Contributor Call Out PHOTO BY:
DAMIEN NOBLE ANDREWS @nobleandrews
Do Expert - A Child Shall Lead Them My ReCycler www.myrecycler.org DATE TAKEN: FEBRUARY 18, 2017
16 LOCALE MAGAZINE
Photoshoot Location: ORANGE COUNTY RECYCLING CENTER 1601 E Edinger Ave Santa Ana, CA 92705
LOCALE MAGAZINE 17
THE TEAM ERIK HALE Publisher + Founder erik@localemagazine.com | @local_e ASHLEY SMITH COO/Co-Founder ashley@localemagazine.com | @ashleyelainexo REILLY KAVANAUGH Art Director + Designer reilly@localemagazine.com | @localereilly | @reillyek EDITORIAL TAMARA PHILIPS Editor tamara@localemagazine.com | @candid.california JORDAN LIGONS Editor jordan@localemagazine.com | @justjayyL CHELSEA RAINERI Editor chelsea@localemagazine.com | @chelsearaineri RANDI SLUSHER Photoshoot Coordinator randi@localemagazine.com | @randi.slusher SALES & MARKETING MIKE TODD SMITH Sr. Market Manager mts@localemagazine.com | @miketoddsmith JASON KOSKY Sr. Market Manager jason@localemagazine.com | @locale_jason BLAINE MULLIGAN Market Manager blaine@localemagazine.com | @localeblainemulligan JAMES ULRICH Market Manager james@localemagazine.com | @j_bubbs BRIANNA ROMANO Partnerships + Marketing Director brianna@localemagazine.com | @briannabanawna FINANCE VALERIE KERR Accountant accounting@localemagazine.com DISTRIBUTION RICK RAMIREZ & ROBERT JONES
THE CONTRIBUTORS WRITERS ALANA ARONSON @alana_aronson ASHLEE POLAREK inspirationfromexploration.wordpress.com | @thegreatbigwonder ASHLEY RUIZ thatlawriter.com | @ashleysitasays ASHLEY TARKINGTON JACKEL ashnfashn.com | @ashnfashn CARLI CRITCHFIELD @gnarlycarli CHARLA BATEY thetenthsign.com | @charlabatey EMILY TORRES thepostgradfiles.com | @emilyelyse8 ELAINE MORGAN CUTTING literarilyemc.com | @el2aine ELENA KHURY @khuryskravings ERICA JOHNSON onmogul.com/ericajohnson | @ericabjohnson & @phitn52 IYANA EDOUARD writtenbyiyana.com | @writtenbyiyana KARLI KARANDOS karlirosetravel.wordpress.com | @karankar MIMI DANG NICOLE HAKIM @nikkicola24 RYAN WHITEHEAD @whitehead.ryan S. ALICEN REYNOLDS alicenrmedia.com | @alicen PHOTOGRAPHERS ADAM GENTRY gentryimages.com | @adamgentry ANDREA DOMJAN andreadomjanphotography.com | @andrea_domjan_photography BRADLEY BLACKBURN bradleyblackburn.com | @bradleyblackburn_com BRIANNA MOSS missmossphoto.com | @breezymoss DAMIEN NOBLE ANDREWS @nobleandrews ED VISIONS edvisions.pixieset.com | @edvisions GIUSEPPE DEMASI demasiphotography.com | @demasistyle IAN ROBINSON islandfeverphotography.com | @islandfeverphotos JANE CHOUTEAU janechouteau.com MATHEW MARTINEZ @2mb_imagery NATHAN WHELAN ngwhelanphoto.com | @ngwhelan NICK ISABELLA nickisabella.photography | @nickisabella.photography REBECCA GNASSO rebeccagnasso.com | @rebeccagnassophoto FA S H I O N S T Y L I S T S REBECCA ARAOZ tailoredtantrums.com BEAUTY STYLISTS ALEX SEXTON HEATHER BALAAM hbmua.com | @hb.makeupartist LAUREN SCACCIA | ROCHELL RANDALL *For full information on our contributors go to www.localemagazine.com/about LO CA L E M AG A Z I N E 2755 Bristol St Ste 295, Costa Mesa, CA 92626 949.436.8910 • www.localemagazine.com @localemagazine • #localemagazine
A NOTE FROM OUR
PUBLISHER “If I get married, I want to be very married.” –Audrey Hepburn
I throw events for a living. We host, throw, give, present, arrange, and organize a party nearly every week. I’ve spent hundreds of hours training in the art of event throwing. I will, somewhat embarrassingly, admit that two of my favorite movies growing up were Father of the Bride (not the sequel) and the critically panned The Wedding Planner starring J-Lo. I watched her over and over again, entranced by the ability to organize hundreds of tasks on an event level. I even jokingly refer to myself, something I realize I shouldn't be doing, in my event planning situations as "J-Lo without an earpiece.” Got a visual? In a few months, I will be marrying my fiancé and best friend in a friend-filled celebration in Cabo San Lucas, and will definitely not be in charge of the coordination. We are leaving that to our planner Pepe (gracias a Dios). I am not the only person from Locale getting married soon, as we have two people on our creative team that are also engaged. The combination of my wedding planner dreams and a few sets of pending nuptials led us to create our STYLE///BEAUTY issue with a decidedly wedding tint. We are so excited that former “The Bachelor” runner-up and two-time contestant, Becca Tilley, fittingly graces our cover. Our in-depth interview will surely satiate “The Bachelor” fan in all of us.
Wedding, p. 75) that we spent hundreds of hours compiling to give you the best practices, tips, and hints to make your wedding absolutely amazing. For those of you that are a commitment phobic and are about to turn away, please know that this is NOT a wedding issue. Our STYLE///BEAUTY issue is stuffed with a fluorescent Sephora pairing (Poppin' Pantones, p. 99), a local company that has men fighting to get in (Suit of Armor, p. 72) and a list of The Coolest Places to Shop, p. 50. We have not skimped on content, as you have grown accustomed to, and this issue should provide days of enjoyable reading as you discover a group of bikers that are riding for a cause (Guardian Angels, p. 156), the most expensive house for sale in Orange County that even boasts its own lake (Record Breaking Real Estate, p. 186), and a trip north for a weekend getaway in Santa Barbara, p. 161. And that's not all - we also cover a beautiful taco joint, take you shopping in Laguna Beach, and give you a tour of the foodie heaven in Lot 579 at Pacific City. I would love to chat more, but I have a party to host and a wedding to plan. Erik P.S. Join us for our Taste of Lot 579 event benefitting the Surfrider Foundation on May 11 at Pacific City.
We have a "save-worthy" 11 page wedding guide (My Big Fat SoCal
ERIK HALE PUBLISHER + FOUNDER erik@localemagazine.com | @local_e
LOCALE MAGAZINE
TA BL E CO NTEN T S of
APRIL 2017
THIS ISSUE: STYLE/BEAUTY
Coolest Places to Shop
50
75
SHOP HERE FOR THE #SWAG
MY BIG FAT SOCAL WEDDING
Bridal Guide
Some of the Coolest Places to Shop in Southern California
Tips, Tricks and Inspo to Make Your SoCal Wedding Planning Seamless
64 Cover Story
HEARTS AND FLOWERS
Your Best Gal Pal from “The Bachelor” Gives a Behind the Scenes Scoop
53
Style/Beauty Experts
96
TRENDY TENDENCIES
BRINGING SEXY BACK
With Finesse
These Style and Beauty Experts are Passionate About Their Trade
72
Combatant Gentlemen
SUIT OF ARMOR
Combatant Gentlemen is Your One-Stop Shop for an Affordable Tailored Suit
24 LOCALE MAGAZINE
Plastic Surgeon Dr. Justin West Helps Patients Achieve Their Ideal Form
99
Fashion Spread
POPPIN’ PANTONES
Show Your True Colors With Sephora’s Color Poppin’ Products
109
That's What She Said
TOUR DE LAGUNA
Ashley Tarkington Jackel of Ash n’ Fashn Explores Laguna Beach in Style
LOCALE MAGAZINE
TA BL E CO NTEN T S of
APRIL 2017
30
LOCALENDAR
20 Events to Spring For
34
NATIVE KNOWLEDGE
Where to be Monday-Sunday
44
129
Eat Feature
HOME/AWAY 46 Upgraded Nightlife
2-4-6-8 WHO WILL FOODIES APPRECIATE?
SPLASH BROTHERS
A Peek Into Lot 579: Huntington Beach’s Newest Eatery Experience
San Diego’s Nightlife is Getting a Major Upgrade
GO/DO
INSTA-STYLE
120 Bomb Bloodies
172
Trendsetting Instagrams We Love
EAT/DRINK
Escape: South Africa
INTO THE WILD
Experience a Luxurious Adventure to South Africa
ABSOBLOODYLUTELY
Bacon, Burgers, and Celery Topped Goodnes
134 Summer Michelada
A METHOD TO MICHELADA MADNESS
139
Celebrate This Cinco de Mayo With a Modelo Michelada at Red O Taste of Mexico
Do Expert
A CHILD SHALL LEAD THEM
Meet Seven Young Influencers Who Have Made Their Passions a Reality
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182
Setting the Table
Eat Expert
LET’S GIVE THEM SOMETHING TO TACO BOUT
SHINING SEA
Puesto Offers a Fiesta Every Day with Vibrant Mexican Dishes
Restauranter Alicia Whitney Creates Cutting Edge Dining Concepts
154 Wetwood Smokes
LOCAL SOUND: WETWOOD SMOKES Costa Mesa-Natives Wetwood Smokes Aim to Bring Local Sound to the Main Stage
170 Rockabye Mommy
CHILD’S PLAY
Stephanie Avila Thoughtfully Designs for the Ultimate Kid’s Room
156
Humanitarian Feature
180
GUARDIAN ANGELS
123
Meals Deconstructed
WITH ALOHA
Royal Hawaiian Serves Up Authentic Hawaiian Cuisine
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Bikers Against Child Abuse Aim to Make a Difference in Children’s Lives
161
First Timer's Guide
THE COAST IS CLEAR
A Weekend in Santa Barbara, the Local Way
Pendry San Diego
186
Su Casa
RECORD BREAKING REAL ESTATE Newport Coast Estate Boasts More Than a View
THE NEW LUXURY
Book a Memorable Night at Pendry San Diego the Next Time You’re in Town
®
All rights reserved © 2017, the entire contents of this publication are protected by copyright. No part of this publication can be reproduced, stored in retrieval system or transmitted in any forms or by any means without express written prior permission of the copyright owner.
LOCALE MAGAZINE
ph: 949.436.8910 | fax: 949.682.4807 info@localemagazine.com Locale Magazine is printed by SOUTHWEST OFFSET PRINTING 13650 Gramercy Pl, Gardena, CA 90249 | 310.323.0112 | www.southwestoffset.com
COVER
Photographed By: Andrea Domjan, andreadomjanphotography.com @andrea_domjan_photography Model: Becca Tilley, @beccatilley | www.beccatilleyblog.com Location: Roger’s Gardens, 2301 San Joaquin Hills Rd, Corona Del Mar, CA 92625 949.640.5800 | www.rogersgardens.com Styled By: Rebecca Araoz, tailoredtantrums.com Hair & Makeup By: Lauren Scaccia All Apparel Provided By: Neiman Marcus, www.neimanmarcus.com | Dress: Alexis, www. shop-alexis.com | Earrings: Oscar de la Renta, www.oscardelarenta.com Floral Headpiece Provided By: What A Betty, www.whatabetty.com
MAKING THE ISSUE For Becca Tilley’s cover shoot we had a blast shooting at Roger’s Gardens in Corona Del Mar. It was a beautiful and sunny day, perfect for the floral and spring inspired wardrobe from Neiman Marcus that Stylist Rebecca Araoz pulled. To begin the day, Becca sat down for an interview with Tamara Philips at Toni & Guy Newport Beach while getting her hair and makeup done by Lauren Scaccia. While Becca sipped an iced vanilla almond milk latte, they chatted about all “The Bachelor” behind the scenes, her new blog, fashion, and of course—pizza and Ed Sheeran! While there was a bit of a crowd at Roger’s Gardens, Photographer Andrea Domjan was able to capture a variety of stunning images of Becca with the flowers and greenery in the background in secluded corners of the gardens.
LOCALENDAR 20 Events to Spring For WRITTEN BY: MIMI DANG
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ENJOY MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH AT LIGHTHOUSE BAYVIEW CAFE May 14
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ATTEND THE DUCKS VS. KINGS GAME April 9
1
CELEBRATE FATHER’S DAY AT FIVE CROWNS June 18
¢ Treat your old man like
royalty and experience either the curated Father’s Day menu or signature offerings at Five Crowns. The atmosphere will transport you to Windsor Castle for his special day! www.lawrysonline.com/fivecrowns
2
RUN THE OC MARATHON May 5-7 ¢ The countdown is on! Hear
the starting gun fire for the 12th Annual US Bank OC Marathon in Newport Beach the first weekend in May. Lace up those running shoes for either the full marathon, half marathon, or the Wahoo’s OC 5k race. Once you cross the finish line, free Wahoo’s Tacos will be waiting plus live entertainment on the Ultimate Finish Line stage. www.ocmarathon.com 30 LOCALE MAGAZINE
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BEACH FILM FESTIVAL April 20-27 ¢ The Newport Beach Film festival celebrates its 18th year at the Via Lido! Over 350 classical and contemporary styles of films from around the world will be showcased, allowing a range of people of all ages and background to be drawn into cinematic magic. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door.
¢ The Anaheim Ducks face the Los Angeles Kings in the last regular season game before the Stanley Cup Playoffs begin. Be there to cheer your team to victory! Game starts at 6 p.m. at the Honda Center. www.nhl.com/ducks
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CELEBRATE OC PRIDE WEEK June 24 ¢ Orange County LGBT Pride celebrates its annual parade, honoring LGBT history and diversity. Show your pride with all the rainbow attire you can think of and come have an awesome time with the LGBTQ community. Everyone is welcome here!
www.newportbeachfilmfest.com
www.prideoc.com
CHECK OUT LUPE FIASCO AT THE OBSERVATORY April 14
SEE AN AMERICAN IN PARIS AT THE SEGERSTROM CENTER FOR THE ARTS April 25-May 7
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¢ Kick, push your way to the Observatory in Santa Ana to see Lupe Fiasco! Doors open at 7 p.m. for a night that is sure to be memorable www.observatoryoc.com
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¢ Spend a night at the Segerstrom to enjoy the musical stylings of Ira and George Gershwin in the award-winning musical - An American in Paris. www.scfta.org
¢ Looking for a unique dining experience for Mother’s Day? Try brunch at Lighthouse Bayview Cafe, where you can enjoy a waterfront meal in a modern day lighthouse! www.lighthousenb.com
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DANCE YOUR PANTS OFF AT TIME NIGHTCLUB April 29 ¢ Tonight’s the night to let loose, have fun and get down with a live performance from Two Friends at Time Nightclub. Party starts at 9 p.m. and goes until 2 a.m.! www.timenightclub.com
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SEE BORN IN CHINA AT CINÉPOLIS LUXURY CINEMAS IN LAGUNA NIGUEL Opens April 21 ¢ Watch Born in China at Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas! The nature doc, follows what could be arguably the three cutest families in the animal kingdom, into the wilderness of China. See the film opening week, and Disneynature will make a donation to the world wildlife fund to help protect the wild pandas and snow leopards of China! www.cinepolisusa.com
LOCALENDAR 20 Events to Spring For WRITTEN BY: MIMI DANG
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¢ New technological advancements, an island full of dinosaurs, and plenty of mishap—experience this race for survival while lounging in the sand at Beachfront Cinema! The movie is projected at the Huntington State Beach, on Newland and PCH. Gates open at 5 p.m., and tickets start at $15.
¢ Everyone of all ages can come experience Lil Wayne at the House of Blues Anaheim. This is the only stop in Orange County for the Kloser 2 U Tour so be sure to grab your tickets fast! Doors open 8 p.m.
www.beachfrontcinema.com
ESCAPE THE HUSTLE – GET AWAY TO CATALINA ISLAND Anytime
SEE JURASSIC PARK AT THE BEACHFRONT CINEMA May 6
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HAVE SOME BREWS AT SAN CLEMENTE MICROBREW FEST April 22
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¢ Red O’s got you covered
¢ This exhibit consists of
for Easter Brunch with their gourmet take on a Mexican Brunch buffet, which includes made to order Huevos Rancheros and Chilaquiles, a taco bar, homemade desserts, and fresh fruit all served from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
the first and only copy of Frida’s personal collection of photographs, which had been stored away after her death by her husband, Diego Rivera. Curated by Mexican photographer Pablo Ortiz Monasterio, this collection showcases 241 photos that give the audience an insight to her fascinating, and at times, tragic life.
DINE OUT FOR EASTER BRUNCH AT RED O TASTE OF MEXICO April 16
www.redorestaurant.com
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VISIT THE FRIDA KAHLO EXHIBIT AT BOWERS MUSEUM February 25-June 25
www.bowers.org
¢ Newport’s infamous jazz and R&B festival makes a return at the Hyatt Regency Newport Beach! There will also be vendors offering world-class grub, as well as a vendor village, with art, apparel and unique gifts. The Newport Jazz Festival attracts Grammy winners and music legends to their stages, and is an event any music lover shouldn’t miss.
HAVE A NIGHT OUT AT THE WAYFARER Anytime
www.festivals.hyattconcerts.com
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¢ Carne asada, cheesy tots? You betcha. Cocktails in mason jars? Of course. Cornhole, ping pong, and a pool table? Check, check, and check! All this AND live music?! The Wayfarer is your Monday through Sunday joint to get down and boogie, and if you’re feeling ballsy, Sunday nights you can jump on stage for karaoke night! www.wayfarercm.com
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www.scchamber.com
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CELEBRATE CINCO DE MAYO AT AVILA’S EL RANCHITO May 5 ¢ Avila's El Ranchito is
celebrating Cinco de Mayo all weekend long, featuring great food and drink specials and exciting giveaways! You don't want to miss Cinco de Mayo at your favorite authentic Mexican restaurant where they will be serving up Mama Avila's famous recipes and some cold cerveza. Call your local Avila's location for more details!
www.houseofblues.com/anaheim
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¢ Only an hour away, Catalina Island is your perfect island getaway. Zip line through Descanso Canyon, relax at Island Spa Catalina, embark on a biofuel Hummer tour, or kick back with a drink in your hand and your feet in the sand at Descanso Beach Club. Whatever your adventure, Catalina Island has it for you. Book your island getaway today. www.visitcatalinaisland.com/ LOCALE
www.avilaselranchito.com
HAVE A BLAST AT DOHENY BLUES FESTIVAL May 20-21 ¢ Come and celebrate Doheny Blues Festival 20th Anniversary with some soulful, swampy-funky tunes that’ll have you dancing all day! The festival will have three stages, an international food court and micro-brew tasting area. There is also a vendor village with over 50 unique booths, and a kid zone. Doors open at 11 a.m. for General Admission daily, and ends 9:30 p.m. Saturday, and 9 p.m. Sunday. www.dohenybluesfestival.com
Photos - Avila's El Ranchito: Heather Young
EXPERIENCE NEWPORT BEACH JAZZ FESTIVAL June 2-4
¢ Do you find yourself drawn to the beer aisle looking at the variety of local beers? Or perhaps is this where you find your significant other when you’re doing your weekly supermarket run? If so, then the 6th Annual Micro-Brew Festival is the place to be! Presented by Left Coast Brewing, this event will feature microbrews from all over Southern California, food, and a live band! The event goes from 1 p.m. until 5 p.m., and tickets can be purchased online and at the door.
SEE LIL WAYNE AT THE HOUSE OF BLUES April 19
NATIVE KNOWLEDGE
BY LOCALS FOR LOCALS /// WHERE TO BE MONDAY-SUNDAY
SO FETCH
Charlie and Me Owner Shares Her Weekly Go-To Spots
“When I want to unwind from the day, an evening at Cafe Gratitude is the perfect place to laugh with friends while sipping refreshing cocktails.”
EXPERT: Taylor Beauchamp CREDENTIALS: Owner of Charlie and Me
MONDAY ¢ Before work, I stop for a latte at Zinqué and lounge by the fireplace with my laptop. The LA like ambiance, charismatic waiters, and french inspired menu is very refreshing for Newport's restaurant scene. lezinque.com TUESDAY ¢ When I want to unwind from the day, an evening at Café Gratitude is the perfect place to laugh with friends while sipping refreshing cocktails. They have the best Skinny Margaritas in town and the Lemon Drop Snow Cone is a must try! cafegratitude.com WEDNESDAY ¢ Hair days are the best days! The cool, contemporary space at TReSs Apothecary + Salon is where I love to spend an afternoon getting cut and colored. Owner and Stylist Tera Stephens always has me feeling pretty when I leave. tressapothecaryandsalon.com THURSDAY ¢ When I feel like spending an evening in Laguna, I love to grab a bite at Broadway by Amar Santana. The adventurous menu and industrial interior makes this a cool, sexy place to dine. The Spanish Octopus a La Plancha is perfection! broadwaybyamarsantana.com FRIDAY ¢ A high intensity spin class at Grit Cycle in
Costa Mesa is how I like to kick off my weekend. The loud music, fun instructors, and enthusiastic community of locals makes this place very special. gritcycle.com SATURDAY ¢ Me and my Frenchie, Charlie, greet our enthusiastic customers and dogs at my dog boutique, Charlie & Me. Located in the charming Lido Marina Village, dog lovers in search of stylish and modern dog products shop with us. charlieandme.us SUNDAY ¢ I take brunching very seriously, and a drive to Ysabel in West Hollywood is often the way to go. The chic waitresses, twinkly trees, and swanky lounge music makes this a brunch hotspot. ysabel.la
CHARLIE AND ME 3505 B Via Oporto Newport Beach, CA 92663 949.877.0036 charlieandme.us
Photographed By: Bradley Blackburn
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NATIVE KNOWLEDGE
BY LOCALS FOR LOCALS /// WHERE TO BE MONDAY-SUNDAY
SO SASSY
“My happy place is a glass of rosé during a sunset, and the absolute BEST place to experience this heaven is at The Deck in Laguna Beach.”
Orange County Local, Jac Vanek, Outlines Where to Get an Epic Cocktail
EXPERT: Jac Vanek CREDENTIALS: Founder and Owner of Jac Vanek Accessories & Apparel MONDAY ¢ Gotta start my week off right by grabbing a lavender latte before work from Milk & Honey in Costa Mesa. They have the best coffee concoctions and most delish red velvet macaroons! milkandhoneycostamesa.com TUESDAY ¢ I'm craaaaving Vietnamese, and lucky for me East Borough has the tastiest spring rolls in all of Southern Cali. If I'm extra hungry, I'll splurge on a chicken bahn mi. Their baguettes are to die for! east-borough.com WEDNESDAY ¢ Hump day calls for happy hour. I stumbled upon Zinqué the other week and immediately fell in love with the entire Lido Marina Village. You can enjoy a nice wine and small bites right on the marina. I can't wait until Nobu opens up next door! lezinque.com THURSDAY ¢ If I told you there was a speakeasy at the Irvine Marriott, would you believe me? The YNK (You Never Know) theme changes every three months (I was there for the Asian theme), and their craft cocktails are unlike anything I've ever had. You HAVE to try the Old Fashioned. ynk-irvine.com
JAC VANEK LLC 2967 Randolph Ave, Ste B Costa Mesa, CA 92626 www.jacvanek.com
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FRIDAY ¢ Time to reward myself for making it through another week! Nick's in Laguna Beach is a total hot spot, but always worth the wait. I start my night off with a Black and Blue Mojito and Asparagus Fries, followed by their mouth watering cioppino. You can never go wrong here! nicksrestaurants.com/nickslaguna-beach SATURDAY ¢ My happy place is a glass of rosé during a sunset, and the absolute BEST place to experience this heaven is at The Deck in Laguna Beach. The Deck has got fantastic cocktails, an epic cheese board, and vibes for daaaaaays. deckonlaguna.com SUNDAY ¢ If you haven't noticed by now, I'm a huge fan of some good old fashioned day drinking. Sunday Funday would be incomplete without a trip to the Bungalow in Huntington Beach. The Bungalow in Santa Monica is my favorite bar of all time, so I was ecstatic to find out they were opening an OC location! thebungalow.com/hb
Photographed By: Bradley Blackburn
NATIVE KNOWLEDGE
BY LOCALS FOR LOCALS /// WHERE TO BE MONDAY-SUNDAY
THE GOOD LYFE Former NFL Player Gives the Scoop on How to Live Healthy in Orange County
EXPERT: Chris Manderino CREDENTIALS: Co-Founder of LYFE Fuel
MONDAY ¢ Monday sets the tone for the entire week, which is why I like to kickstart it with a good sweat. My go-to spot for an intense, fun, and competitive workout session is CrossFit Chalk. They put together the toughest workouts in town! crossfitchalk.com TUESDAY ¢ Who doesn't love Taco Tuesday? Sol Cocina is the place to be to grab some cheap tacos with friends, people watch, and enjoy the live music playing all night long. If you're on that low carb, keto lifestyle like me, be sure to give the Hot and Raw Tropical Ceviche a try. solcocina.com WEDNESDAY ¢ As a startup founder, I can pretty much work from anywhere with a Wi-Fi connection. Kit Coffee in Westcliff Plaza is my new spot for a change of scenery to get outside of the home office. Their green tea matcha is great for stimulating creativity, boosting energy, and improving focus. kit.coffee THURSDAY ¢ There is no better place for a business lunch than Cafe R+D in Fashion Island. It's
the perfect combination of classy and casual, offering a range of healthy yet filling menu choices. rd-kitchen.com
“Whether it is date night or happy hour with friends, you can't go wrong with The Cannery Restaurant.”
FRIDAY ¢ Whether it is date night or happy hour with friends, you can't go wrong with The Cannery Restaurant. Their sushi is always fresh and delicious and you can't beat the HH prices. My favorites are the Sashimi Chirashi Bowl on a bed of seaweed salad, the calamari Kung Pao with calamari, and shishito peppers. cannerynewport.com SATURDAY
¢ I enjoy making the most
of my weekends by waking up early and getting in a hot yoga session. I alternate between Villa Pilates and Ra Yoga. Both offer a variety of classes ranging from relaxing to challenging, so I can choose the one that best fits the way I'm feeling. rayoga.com SUNDAY ¢ My "secret" brunch spot, Zinqué, in the recently redeveloped Lido Village is the perfect setting to drink and dine while enjoying the majestic view of Newport Harbor. lezinque.com
LYFE FUEL 415.663.5933 www.lyfefuel.com Photoshoot Location: NEWPORT HARBOR HIGH SCHOOL 600 Irvine Ave Newport Beach, CA 92663
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Photographed By: Bradley Blackburn
NATIVE KNOWLEDGE
BY LOCALS FOR LOCALS /// WHERE TO BE MONDAY-SUNDAY
WINDOW SHOPPING
Owner of Laurenly Boutique Tells Us Her Fab-Filled Week
EXPERT: Lauren Hernandez CREDENTIALS: Owner of Laurenly Boutique
MONDAY ¢ I love to start the week off right with a yummy cup of coffee and avocado toast on the best bread in the whole world at Pandor Bakery! Can't wait for the new Orange Circle location to open! pandorbakery.com TUESDAY ¢ Gabbi's is my perfect spot for Taco Tuesday with friends. The salsa and guacamole are like nowhere else...and you HAVE to order the Jalapeño Pepino Margarita! (You'll thank me!) gabbipatrick.com/gabbismexican-kitchen WEDNESDAY ¢ If I can try to get away from it all and escape midwork week, Peters Canyon Park offers hiking trails that really help revitalize me. Getting back to nature feels so grounding and I instantly feel reset and re-energized for the rest of the week. ocparks.com/parks/peters THURSDAY ¢ My all time favorite spot to eat and drink: Smoqued BBQ! Not just for the mouth watering barbecue that cannot be found anywhere else around (get the Brisket!) but also the revolving
California Craft Beer selection just hits the spot. smoquedbbq.com FRIDAY ¢ Gotta hit up my favorite nail salon, Kiwi Nail Lounge, to get weekend ready. When your nails look good, you feel good. I've never found a nail salon that I like better than this one and leave loving my nails each and every time. kiwinaillounge.com SATURDAY ¢ Saturday is for shopping! Laurenly, of course, is the go-to spot for the cutest clothes and jewelry all in one adorable little boutique. I literally find myself coming to shop on my day off, usually bringing donuts! A girl can never have too many clothes. laurenly.com SUNDAY ¢ Sunday is my favorite day for a little house project. I love popping by The Potting Shed for tons of cute home decor and the best plant selection you will find! Ask for Jack to help put together a customized succulent arrangement for your home. tpshomeandgarden.com
“I've never found a nail salon that I like better than this one and leave loving my nails each and every time.” LAURENLY BOUTIQUE 142 N Glassell St Orange, CA 92866 714.538.7467 www.laurenly.com
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Photographed By: Bradley Blackburn
IN STA- STYLE Trendsetting Instagrams We Love
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LAURENLY BOUTIQUE @laurenly_boutique
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EAT.SLEEP.WEAR Kimberly Lapides @eatsleepwear
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MONVOIR Jenna Rainey @monvoirco
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SAPPHIRE DIARIES Missy Ulmer @sapphirediaries
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TONI AND GUY @toniandguynewport
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4
FIFI VENEZIA @fifivenezia
MARINE LAYER @marinelayer
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JACLYN HILL @jaclynhill
JESI HAACK DESIGN @jesihaackdesign
F O LLO W LO CA LE M AG A Z I N E O N I N STAG R A M @localemagazine • #localemagazine
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From the Pages Of LOCALE SAN DIEGO
Splash Brothers San Diego’s Nightlife is Getting a Major Upgrade WRITTEN BY: EMILY TORRES PHOTOGRAPHED BY: NICK ISABELLA
MUST-HAVE DRINK: JRoc and Ryan Labbe recommend the hotel’s signature cocktail that hails straight from Vegas—the Champagne Sangria. Sip on the fresh cocktail by the rooftop pool or during a night out with friends.
HEY, MR. DJ Local, Regional, and National DJs are expected at Oxford Social Club such as DJ Mr. Best, Tay James and Politik.
steemed Las Vegas hospitality and nightlife innovators, Jason “JROC” Craig and Ryan Labbe are making a splash in San Diego’s Gaslamp District with two new venues – Pool House and Oxford Social Club – at the Montage’s newest luxury hotel, Pendry San Diego. After years of experience in the hospitality industry, JROC and Ryan Labbe formed 8182 Group, a marketing consultancy that manages a nationwide portfolio of projects including several leading Vegas venues and brands like 50 Bleu Premium Vodka and Resqwater. Quickly recognized for their success in Sin City, founder of Clique Hospitality Group, Andy Masi, partnered with the pair to launch Clique Bar & Lounge, the avant-garde cocktail lounge in the heart of Las Vegas’ Cosmopolitan Hotel. Clique redefined Vegas’ lounge expectations by offering a personal approach to nightlife through table-side mixology, high energy entertainment and a carefully curated ambiance that resonates with guests. Leading up to Pendry San Diego’s debut, Masi, collaborated with JROC and Labbe again on two of the Pendry’s internal venues to bring an inventive guest experience to San Diego’s newer nightlife and hospitality market. “We want to take a lot of the things that we have learned through our experiences in Vegas – service, promotional, marketing tactics – and tailor to San Diego. It’s a different market with its own vibe. We’re trying to bring a little Vegas, LA and New York flavor to San Diego. By creating this mix, we’re giving San Diegans something outside of their norm,” said JROC, regarding how the pair’s Vegas experience will manifest in Pendry San Diego. Amidst the hotel’s six venues, Pool House serves as the Pendry’s beachy
rooftop pool that overlooks downtown San Diego and spans the entire length of the hotel. Pool House offers an incredible pool during the day complete with private cabanas, Bermuda chaise lounge chairs and daybeds and a postwork hangout for small bites and great crafted cocktails (and music by local DJs!) in the evening. “We’re creating a guest experience and a great vibe. One of the things we’re going to be doing differently at Pool House is our programming. We’re curating events that appeal to San Diego locals and visitors of the hotel,” said Labbe. JROC and Labbe’s second venue, Oxford Social Club, will offer an elevated nightlife venue inspired by clubs from older eras. The venue features an innovative cocktail menu, plush furnishings and art installations. The club will not feature Vegas-style residencies, but instead, will feature curated local talent. “We’re excited to be in this market and not only show people how we do things, but to be a part of the evolution of San Diego nightlife. Throughout recent years, the city’s nightlife has been elevated, and we are excited to be a part of that evolution,” said JROC. Oxford Social Club hosted a grand unveiling in early February with Pool House set to open in spring 2017. “There hasn’t been many hotels like this in San Diego in the past decade. This will be an upscale venue that has a lot of character to it. The Montage Group is running hotel operations. They’ve been around for a long time and have great reputation for service. We know that they’re going to exceed expectations of guests. With this property, the nightlife, the restaurant, we’re hoping to make a splash,” concluded Labbe.
THE PENDRY SAN DIEGO 550 J St San Diego, CA 92101 619.738.7000 www.pendryhotels.com/san-diego JROC @iamjroc RYAN LABBE @ryanlabbe CLIQUE HOSPITALITY @cliquehospitality www.cliquehospitality.com
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PHOTO BY: Andrea Domjan
STYLE
///BEAUTY
APRIL 2017
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COOL PLACES TO SHOP Make Sure to Shop at One of These Top SoCal Shopping Destinations
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STYLE/BEAUTY EXPERTS 7 Influential Style and Beauty Experts Talk Trends
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COVER STORY One-On-One with “The Bachelor’s” Becca Tilley
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FASHION SPREAD Poppin’ Pantones
Show Your True Colors With Sephora’s Color Poppin’ Products
COMBATANT GENTLEMEN Get on Your Suit and Tie at This Local Showroom
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BRIDAL GUIDE Your Complete SoCal Bridal Guide
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WITH FINESSE Dr. Justin West Restores Patients' Confidence
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FASHION SPREAD 42 Sephora Products to Add Some Color Into Your Makeup Routine
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THAT'S WHAT SHE SAID Take a Tour Through Laguna Beach with Ash n’ Fashn
ALL APPAREL & ACCESSORIES PROVIDED BY: Trina Turk www.trinaturk.com MAKEUP PROVIDED BY: Sephora www.sephora.com
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STYLE/BEAUTY
SHOP HERE FOR THE #SWAG Some of the Coolest Places to Shop in Southern California
Orange County SEPHORA
Shopping is more than a hobby or a weekend activity to pass the time— it’s an experience. Whether you’re browsing through racks or on a mission for one specific item, you’re sure to stop and take in all of the details of a store if it’s decorated seamlessly or has an impeccable display. Here are some of the coolest places to shop in Southern California to really gain that blissful shopping experience.
Orange County ON QUE STYLE
Orange County CLEOBELLA BOUTIQUE
3333 Bristol St, Ste 1001, Costa Mesa, CA 92626 714.429.9130 | www.sephora.com
2900 East Coast Hwy, Corona Del Mar, CA 92625 949.717.7795 | www.onquestyle.com
16792 14th St, Sunset Beach, CA 90742 562.310.2911 | www.shop.cleobella.com
San Diego
San Diego
Los Angeles
RANDOMS BOUTIQUE
GOLD LEAF
FLOWERBOY PROJECT
2225 30th St, San Diego, CA 92104 619.738.8120 | www.goldleafsouthpark.com
824 Lincoln Blvd, Venice, CA, 90291 310.452.3900 | www.flowerboyproject.com
Los Angeles
Greater Palm Springs
Greater Palm Springs
GUM TREE SHOP
LOCALE MAGAZINE
GRAYSE
73130 El Paseo, Ste H, Palm Desert, CA 92260 760.773.3303 | www.mkgrayse.com
TRINA TURK
891 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262 760.416.2856 | www.trinaturk.com
PHOTOS - GRAYSE: GREGG FELSEN
1114 N Coast Hwy 101, Ste 1, Encinitas, CA 92024 760.419.9217 | www.randomsboutique.bigcartel.com
238 Pier Ave, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254 310.376.8733 | www.gumtreela.com
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WRITTEN BY: TAMARA PHILIPS
GRAYSE CLOTHING Fashion Island, 427 Newport Center Dr, Newport Beach, CA 92660 | 949.759.9800 | www.shop.mkgrayse.com
STYLE/BEAUTY EXPERTS
TRENDY TENDENCIES THESE STYLE AND BEAUTY EXPERTS ARE PASSIONATE ABOUT THEIR TRADE WRITTEN BY: ELAINE MORGAN CUTTING & IYANA EDOUARD PHOTOGRAPHED BY: ADAM GENTRY & GIUSEPPE DEMASI
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ORANGE COUNTY IS KNOWN FOR TRENDY TOPICS, FASHION-FORWARD FINDS, AND STYLIN’ SHOPPING. HOWEVER, BEHIND THESE TRENDS, THREADS, AND STYLES, THERE IS ALWAYS A DEVOTED BUSINESS OWNER, DESIGNER, OR PRODUCER. THESE PEOPLE ARE TRULY ARTISTS IN THEIR OWN FIELDS, AND EACH ONE IS DEEPLY PASSIONATE ABOUT THEIR WORK. WE HAD THE IMMENSE PLEASURE OF SPEAKING WITH SEVEN OF THE MOST INSPIRATIONAL AND INFLUENTIAL STYLE AND BEAUTY EXPERTS IN ORANGE COUNTY TO LEARN A BIT MORE ABOUT THE HEART BEHIND THEIR STORIES AND PASSION.
“Today, there’s a vast span between low priced merchandise and designer, and there’s very little in-between. That’s one of the emphases of our brand. We love to help our ladies get dressed up and celebrate and party.” —Kelly Gray
Kelly Gray CO-FOUNDER AND CO-OWNER OF GRAYSE CLOTHING Q: Why are you passionate about the fashion industry? Kelly Gray: I think it’s in my blood. I was raised in the fashion industry. It’s in my DNA. I don’t think I had a choice. The passion has always been there since I was a child.
GRAYSE CLOTHING Fashion Island 427 Newport Center Dr Newport Beach, CA 92660 949.759.9800 www.shop.mkgrayse.com
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Q: What is the highest compliment you could receive? KG: ‘My husband or boyfriend told me how beautiful I looked last night wearing Grayse.’
Q: What inspires your designs? KG: Having our own retail stores, I get to connect with the customers directly. Sometimes the chemistry between myself and the customer translates into ideas for designs. I would say it’s the fusion of that combined with my travels. I love to spend time in trendy hotels where the sharp designs inspire my creative eye.
Q: I understand you work with your mother. What’s that like? KG: Our creative energy today is probably better than it ever was, and our look is completely different. We have a lot of strong differences and lot of strong connections, and the dichotomy and the diversity is what makes the product fluid and unique.
Q: What materials do you enjoy working with the best? KG: We use a high quality Italian modal. It took us a long time to research and develop this fabric. It wears beautifully, it takes our sequence and stones beautifully, and you can hand wash it. We also work with an American ponte that is the base of a lot of our collections. It’s exceptional quality and woven specifically for our brand.
Q: How has your background in modeling shaped the way you run your business? KG: It’s helped me to have a strong eye for art direction and to be able to translate our designs to print or to social media. It’s given me experience with the camera on the other side.
WRITTEN BY: ELAINE MORGAN CUTTING | PHOTOGRAPHED BY: ADAM GENTRY
Q: What sets Grayse Clothing apart? KG: Uniqueness of design, glamorous style, and exceptional quality; the contrast of edgy glamor. Today, there’s a vast span between low priced merchandise and designer, and there’s very little in-between. That’s one of the emphases of our brand. We love to help our ladies get dressed up and celebrate and party.
Q: What has surprised you the most about maintaining your own brand? KG: How many people we dress for weddings; bridesmaids and mothers. We have a small bridal collection, but it’s surprised me how few places there are for mothers to shop. We started focusing on cocktail and evening and when you translate that to pastels, it takes on a bridal formality. There’s no greater honor than dressing a wedding party, it’s a niche business that I hadn’t planned for.
CUT FITNESS 30261 Tomas Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688 www.cutfitoc.com
"Our goal is to expand CUT Fitness. I’m working on a fitness app so people around the world can ‘Train like Tamra,’ writing a book on fitness, and hopefully moving forward with my fitness line."
TV PERSONALITY AND OWNER OF CUT FITNESS Q: Who are some of your own inspirations? Tamra Judge: Kelly Ripa, Michelle Obama, Carrie Underwood and Jesus. Q: You seem to have a really busy schedule, between running CUT Fitness, fitness training for competition, shooting "Real Housewives of OC", and being a mom. How do you balance everything and stay focused? TJ: It’s not always easy and I'm often overwhelmed. I am the type of person that needs to stay extremely busy or my mind wanders in a million different directions. I start my day at 4:30 a.m. just so I can get everything done. I’m trying to get more organized and finally hire an assistant. Let’s just say it’s not one of my strong points. Q: What’s next? Do you plan on creating more, building more, or extending your current businesses? TJ: Our goal is to expand CUT Fitness. I’m working on a fitness app so people around the world can ‘Train like
Tamra,’ writing a book on fitness, and hopefully moving forward with my fitness line. Q: Do you feel like your appearance on RHOC has helped you launch your business further or do you feel like it would have still been as successful even without the show? TJ: I definitely think that showing our business on RHOC has got the word out there and helped us; it’s our job to keep them here. Q: What work habits or ethics do you hope to pass on to your kids and grandkids? TJ: My kids see me working my butt off! I get up early to work out before they even get out of bed and back home to take them to school. I’m at the studio or filming until they get out of school, homework, sports, and dinner. I believe kids are a product of their environment—I watched my dad do the same thing, and I believe that is where I got my drive.
WRITTEN BY: IYANA EDOUARD | PHOTOGRAPHED BY: GIUSEPPE DEMASI
Tamra Judge
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“It’s nice to be wearing a pair of boardshorts that your dad goes, ‘Hey, I used to have a pair like that.’ It opens up a dialogue.” —Dylan Trumbull
RIIN www.riin.myshopify.com Photoshoot Location: 1290 South Lyon Santa Ana, CA 92705
Dylan Trumbull FOUNDER AND OWNER OF RIIN
Q: What inspires your designs? DT: When I started the company, the whole thing about RiiN was bridging the gap between vintage and contemporary. A lot of the inspiration is from looking at old yearbooks, old photos, and old surf videos. Q: What sets RiiN apart? DT: The fact that there is that optimal length. You see a lot of board shorts at the knee level and that is just not something that I enjoy. Another thing is, a lot of people are interested in that retro feel. It’s nice to be wearing a pair of boardshorts that your dad goes, ‘Hey, I used to have a pair like that.’ It opens up a dialogue. Q: What materials do you enjoy working with best? DT: I am still exploring different materials, and seeing what people like wearing the best. But I really love working with recycled sail material. It might not be functional anymore for a sail boat due to a rip, but
instead of going to a landfill, it can be enjoyed for more years! Q: You started RiiN as a way to recover from ependymoma brain tumor surgery. Tell us a bit about that journey. DT: I think a lot of it was the recovery aspect for me. I had to relearn everything. So, for me it was very challenging and it was something that I had to really work on. In the back of my head, I was thinking, ‘It’s tough now, but it will get better, so I need to keep working at it.’ Q: What has surprised you the most about maintaining your own brand? DT: The biggest thing was jumping into an industry that I knew nothing about, so I had to learn a lot. On top of that, I was coming off of surgery and I had to relearn a lot of everyday tasks that people take for granted. So, I think a lot of my surprise was a little bit of both. Q: What is the highest compliment you can receive from one of your customers? DT: I love getting emails or pictures from customers saying, ‘I took these board shorts to a trip’ or ‘They’re my new favorite board short.’ It’s so nice to see and hear those stories. So, always email me!
WRITTEN BY: ELAINE MORGAN CUTTING | PHOTOGRAPHED BY: ADAM GENTRY
Q: Why are you passionate about surf wear? Dylan Trumbull: I’ve always been interested in all activities that incorporated water. I could never find that optimal board short length. I would get a pair of shorts and I would have my mom hem them. There’s people out there that want that optimal short vintage style. I wanted to make them so other people didn’t have to do what I had to do.
Nicole Boice FOUNDER AND CEO OF GLOBAL GENES
Hannah Reed OWNER AND DESIGNER OF HANNAH REED SWIMWEAR Q: Your custom swimwear collection is all handmade, why do you still choose to make them yourself and not use a manufacturer? Hannah Reed: My swimwear is custom made to fit each individual. Ladies will ask for my suits in a different color than what is shown, or more/less coverage, and it’s important to me that my customers get what they wish for. My customers are looking for something unique and different than what they’ll find in any store.
Q: How much time does it take and what steps go into creating a full, custom swimsuit? HR: It takes about 10-20 minutes to cut a suit, depending on how many pieces there are. It usually takes between one to two hours to sew a complete suit. Suits with
Q: Who are some of your own female inspirations? HR: Sophia Amoruso, CEO of Nasty Gal, is the first person that comes to mind. She created a multimillion dollar business with no business training because she had the instincts, discipline, and determination to focus on what would be successful and ditch what didn’t work. She is definitely an inspiration to me. I love that she started with something small and turned it into a multimillion dollar company. Q: You started your swimwear company while still in high school. How did you balance school and your work without getting overwhelmed? HR: I was overwhelmed, but like any businesswoman, I learned how to manage it the best I could. Although my grades suffered a little, I learned so much through this invaluable business experience and I feel I will be able to benefit from it my entire career. I have learned more about marketing, sales, money management, and running a company than any textbook could ever teach me in high school.
HANNAH REED www.hannahreedswimwear.com Photoshoot Location: San Clemente, CA
Q: What challenges have you had to face running Global Genes? NB: The greatest challenges have been hiring the right people, knowing when to take calculated risks, and managing growth. Q: What advice would you give for anyone starting an organization? ever lose NB: Think outside the box, listen, and n sight of 'why.’ Make y our‘why’ the core of every decision. The 'what' y ou do and 'how'you do it, will then n aturally follow. Don't be afraid to make mistakes, as long as you learn from them, and put processes in place so they don't happen again. Q: How do you feel about women entrepreneurs and do you feel like you’re contributing to that growth? NB: Absolutely! There are a lot of inspiring women entrepreneurs, and we have always been very proud of the fact that we employee and have partnered with so many insightful, compassionate, innovative women that have had such a profound impact on the world. I’m honored to be part of that group. Q: What is to come for you and your organization? Any big changes or growth coming soon? volve as we move NB: Global Genes continues to e from a start up to a more established organization. We are growing impact through our boards/ advisory boards and through our continued focus on patients/advocates. We are starting to attract major talent, like Robert Ring, PhD, former Chief Scientific Officer of Autism Speaks. Q: What is your go-to work-life balance tip? How do you maintain it all? NB: S tay on a schedule. Get your workout in early, enjoy a great espresso macchiato and then you are set for the day. End your day with some type of meditation. Oh—and did I say lots of wine.
GLOBAL GENES 28 Argonaut, Aliso Viejo, CA 92656 949.248.7273 | www.globalgenes.org
WRITTEN BY: IYANA EDOUARD | PHOTOGRAPHED BY: ADAM GENTRY
Q: What sparked your interest in designing swimwear? HR: The swimsuits I liked were too expensive, and with my love for fashion and art combined, I decided to create a beautiful swimwear line myself, at a reasonable price. My sister, Hailey, and I would wear my suits to the beach, and we got so many compliments and people asking where our bikinis were from. Soon enough, orders started flowing in. Most of my customers found me on Instagram or through word of mouth at school.
many strings take longer, so I charge more for my time. Over the summer, there would be days when I’d get a few orders for four or five pieces each, and I would be sewing all night.
Q: What exactly is Global Genes and what inspired you to start it? Nicole Boice: Global Genes is a leading global advocacy non-profit organization for patients and families fighting rare and genetic diseases. Global Genes works to eliminate rare and genetic disease challenges by building awareness, developing patientfocused educational tools, and funding patient care programs and early investigative research. Our organization seeks to help support the development oftreatments and cures for the 7,000+ rare and genetic diseases that affect an estimated 30 million Americans and over 350 million people worldwide.
“When I got sick, there were a lot of things that were more challenging to do, and it just wasn’t worth it to me, but makeup was.” —Kaitlyn Dobrow
KAITLYN DOBROW @kaitlyndobrow Photoshoot Location: Huntington Beach, CA
Kaitlyn Dobrow BEAUTY VLOGGER Q: Why are you passionate about the beauty industry? Kaitlyn Dobrow: It’s something that I’ve always liked to do. When I got sick, there were a lot of things that were more challenging to do, and it just wasn’t worth it to me, but makeup was. So, it’s an outlet for me in a way.
Q: What materials do you enjoy working with the best? KD: It’s a pain, but I love liquid eyeliner. I really love the Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner. I love the way it looks, I don’t like applying it. I love messing around with lipsticks and eyeshadows. I really like MAC and Urban Decay, and then lipstick I am kind of all over the place, I like all of them. Q: What has surprised you the most about being social media famous? KD: It surprises me how many videos get shared. The fact that I was one of them is really cool. You go on that explore page on Instagram and all of a sudden, ‘Oh my God.’ It’s just so weird. It was also pretty awesome how nice people were.
Q: What is the highest compliment you could receive from your followers? KD: That they love the makeup that I did or that they want to try themselves. It’s just really awesome, it’s just like, ‘Oh, I want to see what you come up with!’ Q: After being diagnosed with meningitis, you lost both your arms and legs. What are some challenges you faced and how did you overcome them? KD: The challenges mostly were dropping things. I drop a lot of things or I can’t pick up a lot of things, so I make funny faces or weird noises without thinking about it. The way I got over that is to just laugh at myself and see how funny it would look to someone else making these weird faces and stuff. Q: What message do you hope your videos are conveying to your followers? KD: That they can laugh and have fun no matter what. Mostly to just be happy. I just like the fact that a lot of people will say, ‘You make me laugh’ or ‘You make my day.’ I think that’s what I want the message to be; you can be happy and to just joke around.
WRITTEN BY: ELAINE MORGAN CUTTING | PHOTOGRAPHED BY: ADAM GENTRY
Q: Where do you get your inspiration for your makeup tutorials? KD: Some of them I make up. I watch a lot of Youtube and a lot of Instagram, and that’s kind of where I get my inspiration; seeing what they come up with and saying, ‘That looks really cool, I want to try that!’
People are usually nice to me because they probably are like, ‘I don’t want to say anything mean, she has no arms or legs!’ But, it was really sweet and it was surprising how supportive people were.
Alli Talley-Swanson CO-FOUNDER OF 31 BITS AND DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC RELATIONS AND MARKETING
WRITTEN BY: IYANA EDOUARD | PHOTOGRAPHED BY: ADAM GENTRY
Q: Can you tell us about what 31 Bits is and your role in the company? Alli Talley-Swanson: We started 31 Bits in college, I ended up meeting a group of women in Uganda during college. We fell in love with their jewelry and their stories, but they had no way to sell it, so we helped them and it just took off. We never thought it would be a full-time career. We have about 80 artists in Uganda, and now we’re working in Indonesia and Bali. We sell online and about 400 stores in the US and Canada and just got an order from Anthropologie. Q: How did you balance everything in college without getting overwhelmed? ATS: It was crazy and hilarious. We had boxes of jewelry in our dorm rooms under our bunk beds. We didn’t know what we were doing. It was a big learning experience and had a lot of late nights, but it was something we were so passionate about, so we kept going. The cause was so real for us having that as a catalyst. Q: Your company really focuses on doing good. Do you think more businesses can or should implement giving back? If so, why? ATS: It has its challenges working in two parts of the globe, but it’s so important. There’s so much potential for fashion to change, and I think our generation is a lot more conscious about where their money goes. People care more about what they are purchasing. I think companies can learn from that, meet the consumer with their needs. I’ll spend extra to know my money is going towards a good cause. Q: What has been your favorite or most memorable experience thus far with 31 Bits? ATS: Every couple of years we hit a milestone and it’s really memorable. Us moving into our first office in the US,
we felt like we made it. To visiting our ladies in Uganda, especially this past summer, because I was able to see 26 women graduate from our program. I really see the way they have impacted their communities. The joy they have was really special, and it always hits me, because who knew 31 Bits would be able to touch so many lives. Q: Who are some of your own female inspirations? ATS: Jacqui Saldana on Instagram/@ BabyBoyBakery. She’s gone through a lot of tragedy and uses her Instagram to inspire others. I think Leslie Schneider/@ splendid_rags on Instagram should be on your list next year—she's super creative and her blog and Instagram are super colorful. Q: As a female entrepreneur what advice would you give to other aspiring young female business owners? ATS: If you have a passion and have something you really want to do, really go for it. But also learn in the process, learn from experts. Take as many people out to coffee as you can and listen. That’s the only way we got to where we are now, anyone that had advice for us, we listened. We relied on tips and advice because we knew nothing. When you stop learning, you’re doing something wrong. Q: What is next for your career and 31 Bits? ATS: We just launched in Bali and Indonesia and we’re really excited. We’re using metal for the first time as well, so we have some new looks coming that people are really going to love. My husband and I also have a side business and we travel a lot. 31 BITS 1663 Superior Ave Costa Mesa, CA 92627 www.31bits.com
Your Best Gal Pal from “The Bachelor” Gives a Behind the Scenes Scoop
WRITTEN BY: TAMARA PHILIPS PHOTOGRAPHED BY: ANDREA DOMJAN STYLED BY: REBECCA ARAOZ HAIR & MAKEUP BY: LAUREN SCACCIA
Becca Tilley has paid her dues as a contestant on both Chris Soules and Ben Higgins’ seasons of ABC’s “The Bachelor.” Through her rollercoaster ride of an experience on national television, she’s learned a lot, and is ready to focus on her own happiness. Becca is loving life after appearing on both seasons. She launched a blog over the summer with all things fashion and travel and continues to delve deeper into the style/beauty world. And of course, she is loading up on pizza, In-NOut Burger, and Taco Bell whenever she gets the chance.
BECCA TILLEY @beccatilley www.beccatilleyblog.com Photoshoot Location: ROGER’S GARDENS 2301 San Joaquin Hills Rd Corona Del Mar, CA 92625 949.640.5800 www.rogersgardens.com
ALL APPAREL PROVIDED BY: Neiman Marcus www.neimanmarcus.com DRESS: Self Portrait www.self-portrait-studio.com
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Miss Independent:
• Where does Becca like to hang out most? At home. “I’m such a grandma,” Becca says. “You just can’t tell by my [social media]. She also likes to go to movies by herself. “I can just focus on the movie and popcorn.”
Pizza is BAE:
• “I eat terribly, so nothing is a really a ‘splurge.’ But I guess if I were trying to eat healthy, the most difficult thing to give up would probably be pizza.”
ALL APPAREL PROVIDED BY: Neiman Marcus www.neimanmarcus.com White Dress: ALEXIS www.shop-alexis.com Blue Dress: SELF PORTRAIT www.self-portrait-studio.com Earrings: OSCAR DE LA RENTA www.oscardelarenta.com FLORAL HEADPIECES PROVIDED BY: What A Betty www.whatabetty.com
“I know I could have gone home the first night. And the girls who spent so much money on dresses I was like, ‘Man, these girls have a lot more confidence in the situation than I do.’” —Becca Tilley 66 LOCALE MAGAZINE
As The Chainsmokers and Coldplay’s “Something Just Like This” is playing in the background, Becca makes her entrance into to Toni & Guy Fashion Island freshfaced and with a big smile—though this entrance wasn’t from a limo. She’s seemingly a pretty happy person in general, even before coffee. While maybe a bit shy initially, she was game to sit down and have some girl talk and give me a behind the scenes look at the reality show we all have grown to love. She has a touch of southern twang when she speaks, an infectious laugh, possesses incredible values, and all the qualities you want in your best gal pal.
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feelings—about everything,” Becca says. “When I left, I was so thankful because I had learned so much about myself and dealt with issues I didn’t even realize I was holding onto. I’ve always been kind of closed off, and I think I still struggle with it. It was a weird learning experience, just in regards to myself, not even pertaining to the guy you’re trying to date.”
“While the show is shown in such a silly light, there is this deeper part of it where you learn so much about yourself. Because all you’re doing is talking about your
While the experience was enough for Becca to walk away with, it wasn’t necessarily what the show’s producers were looking for. “I remember at the end of it I didn’t cry. I don’t really get super emotional,” she says. “And [the producers] were just trying everything like, ‘C’mon, what can we do [to get her to cry]?’ They were so distraught that I wasn’t crying.” Becca admits that the producers’ input can be stressful— especially the first night.
Becca’s journey to find love began when her high school best friend nominated her for Season 19 of “The Bachelor.” She had no idea that her friend snuck in the nomination, so when she received the call that they’d like to have her on the show, she thought it was some sort of weird prank. Though Becca had never seen the show, she figured she’d give it a whirl since she had never even had a boyfriend before. While the end-goal of getting the Neil Lane ring was a bust, Becca left with something much more valuable than a diamond on her hand.
“I
“I walk in, and there are all of these girls and cameras, and I’m thinking, ‘What in the world did I just do?’ The first night I didn’t even talk to him. I couldn’t bring myself to interrupt him and the other girls. And I was just like, ‘Welp, I’m going home, this is so weird—I am not gonna do well in this environment,’’ she says. The producers were pushing her to go talk to him when she was feeling shy. “I just couldn’t. I couldn’t go and interrupt a girl I don’t even know. And the producers said, ‘If you want to talk to him, you’re going to have to interrupt.’ I don’t know why he kept me that first night; we exchanged like one sentence. He liked my shoestring dress, I guess,” she laughs. While on the show, Becca revealed her choice to save herself for marriage. She received widespread media attention for it when the season aired—both negative and positive. “I had a meeting with the creator of the show about “The Bachelorette” after Chris’ season. And he asked, ‘Why are you choosing to wait until marriage?’ And I told him that it’s just a choice I made, just like the choice you made to not wait until marriage. And I’m just sticking with it,” she says. “I didn’t want to make it a ‘thing’ on the show because I knew the minute I said it out loud, it would become part of my storyline. And there are times when I think, ‘Why did I say anything? Why didn’t I keep my mouth shut?’ But it’s really great because I have girls come up to me who are in their teens or young 20s and say, ‘I haven’t been able to feel confident in [this decision to save myself].’ Seeing the response from it, from real girls, and not just the media, it feels really good.” Though Bachelor Chris was caught off guard by her decision, he seemed to respect her values. Becca made it to the hometown visit to meet his family in small farm town Arlington, Iowa. However, the connection they had made wasn’t
necessarily enough to uproot Becca from her hometown. “I can’t tell you that I will move here,” Becca says she emphasized to Chris. “Even if you were madly in love with someone, it would still be a huge sacrifice. It’s not just a small town; it’s like desolate. We asked people in Iowa about the town, and they didn’t even know where it was. I was like, ‘What are you talking about, this is your state!’ I don’t know if there’s even a gas station.” She didn’t end up taking home the ring, but she’s able to have a sense of humor about it. The whole notion of moving to a farm was almost comical to her. “Of course, they didn’t show any of my funny one-liners about farm life,” Becca says giggling. “Can we build a giant corn maze and I’ll get a tractor with a sound system?” she would ask Chris. “He was like, ‘Yeah, we’ll get you all of that.’ And then he sent me home.” Becca loves a good one-liner joke and to poke fun at herself. She shared the stories of how girls interact on the show behind the scenes and often have each other’s backs. For instance, on Ben’s season, Becca tells the hilarious story of how she had to borrow JoJo Fletcher’s spanx for a one-on-one date in Mexico because she was bloated. “JoJo was wearing them all day and didn’t want to let me borrow them, but I was like, ‘Give them to me!’” she shakes her head and laughs. It’s friendship at its finest when you start sharing undergarments. While many contestants are adamant that they are not ‘here to make friends,’ it’s inevitable because there is so much down time and no access to phones or internet. “If you’re not on a date, you’re just at the house or hotel hanging out,” she says. “I loved not having my phone because I had to have real conversations with people without distractions. You bond with these girls. And obviously, they don’t show that because the show isn’t about making friends. You spend more time with these girls than the guy.”
Fashion inspiration:
• Kate Hudson, Blake Lively, Hello Fashion Blog, Happily Grey
Becca’s Go-To Cocktail: • Moscow Mule
“When I left, I was so thankful because I had learned so much about myself and dealt with issues I didn’t even realize I was holding onto.” —Becca Tilley
ALL APPAREL PROVIDED BY: Neiman Marcus www.neimanmarcus.com Pink Dress: SELF PORTRAIT www.self-portrait-studio.com White Dress: ALEXIS www.shop-alexis.com Earrings: OSCAR DE LA RENTA www.oscardelarenta.com
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Favorite Vacation Spot: • Greece
Bachelor Regret:
ALL APPAREL PROVIDED BY: Neiman Marcus www.neimanmarcus.com Pink Dress: SELF PORTRAIT www.self-portrait-studio.com White Dress: ALEXIS www.shop-alexis.com Earrings: OSCAR DE LA RENTA www.oscardelarenta.com
• Getting gels put on her nails before the show.
“You bond with these girls. And obviously they don’t show that, because the show isn’t about making friends. You spend more time with these girls than the guy.” —Becca Tilley 70 LOCALE MAGAZINE
S
She’s come a long way since sharing spanx. When Becca isn’t strutting her stuff on the red carpet of the iHeart Radio Festival, glamming it up for her blog, or rubbing elbows with LA’s top bloggers at the Sundance Film Festival, she enjoys laying low at home with her girlfriends or sisters. Recently, JoJo was in town visiting, now one of Becca’s BFFs, and the two spent the entire day under the radar. “If I don’t have anything going on, I like to give my skin a break. Like yesterday, we didn’t put any makeup on,” Becca says. “We spent the whole day in our sweats. We looked really bad, but it was really nice. We went to CVS and bought a ton of junk food. And of course, we did the weird thing where we laid it all out and ate it all at once.” But when it comes time to play dress up, Becca has a blast. After the routine of putting on a full face of makeup and assembling a cute outfit for every day of filming on “The Bachelor,” she learned a thing or two about style and beauty. While many of the girls on “The Bachelor” dropped thousands of dollars on dresses for the show, that just wasn’t realistic for Becca, who was previously a chiropractor’s assistant before joining the competition for the final rose. Her main thought was to just have enough dresses to make it until the end. “I know I could have gone home the first night. And the girls who spent so much money on dresses I was like, ‘Man, these girls have a lot more confidence in the situation than I do,’” she says laughing. For Becca’s first season, a lot of her dresses were either her sisters’ or from Forever 21. “It’s funny because the first night on the show [of Chris’ season], I wore a hand-medown dress and people were going crazy over it. I had this shoestring wrapped around my waist and everyone wanted to know where I got it,” she says. “There’s something about reality TV that’s attractive because it’s like watching your best friend or your neighbor on the screen. And people
are like, ‘Oh, I feel like I have access to what they’re wearing.’ And whether you intend for it to happen or not, it just happens. When people are asking where my dress is from, I’m like, ‘Whew, I made a good decision.’” And here lies her inspiration for her selftitled lifestyle blog, beccatilleyblog.com. As a style inspiration on national television, Becca formed quite the following, especially after two seasons. She has over a million followers on Instagram, and her audience continues to expand as she dabbles further into style/ beauty, YouTube tutorials, and Q&A videos. “[Blogging] is fun, but it’s also a lot of work. So, it’s been a huge learning experience,” Becca says. “I used to see bloggers on Instagram and think it’s the easiest job. But now that I see what goes into it, it’s given me so much respect for them—especially those who built their following from nothing. There’s a creative art to it that’s underappreciated.” Under the umbrella of blogging, Becca talks about maybe doing more YouTube tutorials, but she jokes that she only has one way of doing her hair so that would be challenging. While blogging may be a learning experience for her, it’s exciting. We look forward to see what she comes up with next! Her journey began with the goal to find love, and she’ll get there. But for now, she’s having fun and enjoying life. Ultimately, she aims to learn how she can make an impact through this chapter of her life. “I want to leave a legacy that’s more than just this,” Becca says. “This is such a crazy fun industry, and sometimes I look around, and I’m just like, ‘How is this my life?’ But there’s also gotta be something more to it.” Becca doesn’t have plans to do more reality TV anytime soon. However, she says doing a prank show would be a ton of fun. For now, keep on the lookout for her at a local In-N-Out Burger and for her blossoming blog where you can follow her style and travel adventures. We’re definitely falling for Becca Tilley.
STYLE/BEAUTY
In Orange County, we are used to seeing everyone from surfer kids to CEOs hanging out in their shorts and flip flops and if it’s a little cold, out pops the hoody. At some point, though, in every man’s life there will be a need for a good suit. Combatant Gentlemen has come to the rescue.
SUIT OF ARMOR
There is a new generation of fashionable young men that want to look stylish, au courant and also want to be able to afford it. Combatant Gentlemen has made it easy to peruse the options, find what works with your personal style and get quality, beautifully tailored suits at a great price. The concept of integrating a personal shopping experience with the best tech in online shopping is what makes it all work so well. After all, the company motto is “Technology is the heartbeat of our business.”
Combatant Gentlemen is Your One-Stop Shop for an Affordable Tailored Suit WRITTEN BY: ERICA JOHNSON PHOTOGRAPHED BY: IAN ROBINSON
KNOCK, KNOCK Upon entering the Irvine showroom, one is greeted by the original doors from one of the Versace Boutiques that Melwani’s parents owned and operated. These beautiful, art deco doors are truly a piece of fashion history from one of the most iconic brands in the world.
The business is the brainchild of Vishaal Melwani, a UCI Grad that grew up virtually surrounded by fashion. Not only was his grandfather a Master Tailor, his parents owned and operated all of the iconic Versace Boutiques on the West Coast. After earning his degree in International Business and then considering a career in law, Melwani had his light bulb moment while he was visiting several friends who moved to New York after graduating college. When there was a need to dress to impress, Melwani and his friends would share their clothes as buying upscale fashion was definitely not in the budget. Upon partnering with his cousin, Mohit Melwani and good friend and tech strategist, Scott Raio, Combatant Gentlemen was born.
SUIT UP! Let’s not forget The Groom’s Suite! The idea of going into a “Tux Shop” seems so antiquated and unappealing. Combatant Gentlemen can put you in a beautiful tux that will be yours to keep and wear to the next big event. If you buy five suits or tuxes, your sixth is free.
The process is simple: go online and select your fit from three categories, select your size, and choose from over 18 different fabric options. If you want the Made-toMeasure option, just make an appointment for a fitting and choose fabrics and details like linings, pockets and even buttons and pocket squares. A tailor will be with you every step of the way to make sure you are getting exactly what you want, just the way you want it. In a few short weeks, you are ready to go. The best part? Prices start at $160 with Madeto-Order starting at $240. Taking it up a notch, Combatant Gentlemen has collaborated with renowned Italian Tailor and Production Manager, Alberto Caruso for The Summit Collection. Made in Italy with fabric from one of the country’s oldest mills, this collection sets a new standard of quality and makes it possible for you to have an Italian suit without the Italian suit price. If you want to look fantastic but keep it casual, there are many other stylish options available; chinos, shirts, denim, shoes, ties and accessories and even outerwear and luggage. This really is a onestop-shop at it’s finest and most affordable. If Combatant Gentlemen is the future of men’s fashion, it’s easy to understand why. Luxurious fabrics, the perfect fit and great style offered directly to you for a fraction of what you would normally spend. Next time you see a young man in a great looking suit, there’s a good chance he’s a loyal customer.
"
The concept of integrating a personal shopping experience with the best tech in online shopping is what makes it all work so well.
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Photoshoot Location: THE HABERDASHERY BY COMBATANT GENTLEMEN 16842 Von Karman Ave Building 400, Ste 450 Irvine, CA 92606 855.997.4368 www.combatgent.com
Locale Magazine BRIDAL GUIDE
My
BIG FAT
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WRITTEN BY: ASHLEY RUIZ, ERICA JOHNSON, KARLI KARANDOS, & RANDI SLUSHER
SoCal
WEDDING TIPS, TRICKS AND INSPO TO MAKE YOUR SoCal WEDDING PLANNING SEAMLESS
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Photos - Jesi Haack Design: Ryan Ray
Locale Magazine BRIDAL GUIDE
MAKEUP
Infused with natural clay harvested from the banks of the Amazon River and naturally baked by the sun, this nutrientrich blush benefits all skin types for a fade-free flawless finish that lasts an amazing 12 hours. SEPHORA, Tarte Blush sephora.com
HONEYMOON
At The Shore Club, the only limit is your imagination. Defined by a spirit of relaxed luxury, refreshing adventure, healthy indulgence, and exclusive accessibility, it’s a place where you can do exactly what you desire. The Shore Club Turks and Caicos theshoreclubtc.com
RING
Alber Rezko Jewelry Designs uses innovative techniques and profound elements when designing engagement rings. Alber Rezko Jewelry alberrezko.com
Breezy & BEACHY Where the Sand Meets the Sea is Your Comfort Zone
VENUE
If you are looking for the perfect beachfront wedding venue, look no further than Shutters on the Beach in Santa Monica. The Pacific Terrace venue provides the best location to say “I Do.” Shutters on the Beach shuttersonthebeach.com
Written By: Elena Khury DECOR
We are loving bright, fun pops of color for beach weddings. It is all about fresh color and brightness. Jesi Haack Design jesihaackdesign.com
GOWN
For the bride who prefers turquoise to diamonds, wildflowers to roses, or braids to formal up-do’s, designer Claire Pettibone has created Romantique— perfect for the beach bride. Claire Pettibone clairepettibone.com
CAKE
Their pastry chefs will work with the couple to create any cake they want. It can be any flavor, any number of layers and they can decorate it however the couple wants. Ritz Carlton ritzcarlton.com/ en/hotels/ california/lagunaniguel
“JUST MARRIED” CONVERTIBLE CAR
Looking for the perfect car to drive off after you say “I Do”? Look no further than Hoehn Motor Cars. They will get you in the perfect convertible car to drive off to your future in style. Hoehn Motor Cars hoehnmotors.com
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FLOWERS
Theresa Anderson founded this floral hotspot in 2012. These elegant yet simple arrangements are a beautiful touch to any wedding. Petals and Pop petalsandpop.com
Locale Magazine BRIDAL GUIDE
FLOWERS
HAIR STYLIST TIPS
The talented designers at Bloomers La Jolla can bring the Boho aesthetic to your ceremony with just the right mix of flowers, colors and textures. Favorite flower suggestions for the Boho Bride are Astilbe, a beautiful lacey looking wildflower that adds a delicate touch of timeless elegance to a bouquet or boutonnière. Bloomers La Jolla bloomersflowerslajolla.com
HONEYMOON
Whether you enjoy gorgeous scenery, secluded walks on the beach or a little adventure in the mountains, Catalina will fill your days with fun and your nights with romance. Santa Catalina Island Company will create a custom package and ensure that your Honeymoon is truly unforgettable. Santa Catalina Island Company visitcatalinaisland.com
Ibrahim (Brian) Kudsi:
Owner of Kud’Ci Salon, Corona Del Mar Brian’s Top 5 Tips for Today’s Bride: 1. Choose a stylist that you can trust and feel comfortable with 2. Don't make any drastic changes to your hair or hair color just before your wedding day 3. Work with your stylist on reaching all your hair goals prior to the big day
RING
Any combination of custom finishes and gemstones are available to create your timeless masterpiece. Traditional Jewelers traditionaljewelers.com
4. Wear a button-up top to ensure your style stays in tact while you get ready
Boho CHIC
5. Relax and enjoy your special day! Kud’Ci Salon 949.675.5053
Key Rustic Elements for the Perfect Bohemian Bride Written By: Erica Johnson
INVITES
Invitations for your shower, engagement party, bachelorette party, rehearsal dinner and ceremony can be customized to fit your style and the venue you have picked for that special day. Where’s The Party? wheresthepartyoc.com
DECOR
Make your ceremony truly spectacular with special pieces such as wicker peacock chairs, Moroccan furniture, tapestries and Persian rugs. Pow Wow Design Coordination Studios powwowdesignstudio.com
GOWN
Pastry Chef, Albert Gonzalez, can create a custom wedding cake prepared on-site. The personal attention that owner Willie Rhine offers in planning each event creates an experience that is authentic, leaving guests with the feeling that every detail was created just for them. Eight4Nine Restaurant & Lounge eight4nine.com
VENUE
Able to accommodate groups up to 160 attendees, Solterra features rustic Mediterranean cuisine to pair with their award winning selection of wines. Solterra Winery solterrawinery.com
Photos - Pow Wow Design Coordination Studios: Logan Cole
CAKE
Tara Lauren Spring 2017 "Seafarer Collection” features textured Battenburg lace, soft touches of color, billowy crepe de chine, as well as modern cuts and silhouettes to capture a dreamy but chic wedding look. Tara Lauren tara-lauren.com
Locale Magazine BRIDAL GUIDE
VENUE
There is no better place for the alternative bride to say, "I do," than in the midst of the Santa Rosa Mountains, surrounded by lush valleys and free-roaming giraffes! Living Desert Zoo livingdesert.org
DESSERT
From the classic ooey-gooey cookies stuffed with strawberry ice cream to more exotic flavors like the pear gorgonzola with orange marmalade, the dessert table may attract more attention than the giraffes. Chunk-N-Chip chunknchip.com
HAIR STYLIST TIPS
JUMPSUIT
Skip the ultra traditional wedding dress and go with the Bella Jumpsuit in Ivory. Stone Cold Fox thestonecoldfox.com
Lauren Scaccia,
DECOR
Continue the theme with colorful plates, knotted brass flatware, and textured goblets to complete the look. Soiree 8 Rentals soiree8.com
Co-Owner of Toni & Guy Fashion Island, Newport Beach
Dare to be DIFFERENT
Lauren’s Top 5 Tips for Today’s Bride: 1. Find pics of what you'd like for your hair and makeup as well as what you don't like. Having some images prepared for your stylist and makeup artist will really assist in getting great conversation going to get your desired look right.
As an Alternative Bride, Your Options are Endless Written By: Ashley Ruiz
2. Always book a consultation for hair and makeup. It's important for your big day and even better to have time to try a look or two if you're unsure.
FLOWERS
Combining her love of books and pretty things, the alternative bride will carry a custom-made bouquet of paper roses. With Love & Petals etsy.com/shop/withloveandpetals
INVITES
Twinkle & Toast's custom stationery creates meaningful wedding stationery for inspired couples. For an alternative bride, check out cactus design to match your zoo venue. Twinkle & Toast twinkleandtoast.com
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HONEYMOON
Honeymooners will gape at the blooming cherry blossoms, hike Mt. Fuji and soak in rejuvenating hot springs. Tokyo, Japan japan-guide.com
4. Bring or have an idea of your jewelry, including any accessories you're planning on wearing in your hair. 5. Listen to what your stylist recommends. Some find it helpful to have second day hair in order to manipulate texture better and will let you know, based on your particular hair type. Toni & Guy toniguy.com/hairsalons/newport-beachca/fashion-island
Photos - Toni & Guy: Taylor Lewis | With Love & Petals: Photography West Ca
3. Bring pictures of your dress and share what weather you're expecting so your stylist can make recommendations for you. High winds or high heat, even a high neckline can make an impact on whether or not hair goes up or stays down.
Locale Magazine BRIDAL GUIDE
VENUE
Nothing says romance more than saying ‘I Do’ surrounded by fresh roses, lush trees, and a beautiful lake. Avenue of the Arts Hotel avenueoftheartshotel.com
MAKEUP
Add a pop of color to your lips so you’ll look fab when your new hubby leans in for a kiss. Adding a lip stain, like this one from SEPHORA, is an easy way to incorporate your color palette for a complete, glamorous look. SEPHORA Cream Lip Stain, $18 sephora.com
RING
Be bold or be different with any of the stunning rings that Winston’s Jewelers carries. Winston’s Jewelers winstonscrownjewelers.com
Glitz & GLAM For the Bride That Won’t Shy From the Limelight Written By: Randi Slusher
HAIR STYLIST TIPS
GOWN
Look stunning in this “Antara” gown from Pronovias’ 2017 Bridal Collection. Available in off white or optical white, this beaded dream of a wedding dress is perfect for you, Glam Bride. Bohimi bohimi.com
“JUST MARRIED” CONVERTIBLE CAR
DETAILS
Upgrade your wedding invites and dinner menus with a little laser-cut accent. Darla Marie Designs darlamariedesigns.com
A Mercedes represents the ultimate in luxury. Show off your ritzy side by driving off in the “Just Married” C300 C-Cabriolet Mercedes from Fletcher Jones of Newport Beach. Fletcher Jones Mercedes fjmercedes.com
Stroll Monaco City hand in hand and take in the breathtaking palaces and botanical gardens on almost every corner. Admire the luxurious and grandeur architecture of Monte Carlo, Monaco. Monte Carlo visitmonaco.com
Oscar’s Top Tips: 1. Know a direction you want to move toward, but be open to professional opinion. Your hairdresser wants you to have what you want, but also has experience with a variety of face shapes and hair textures. You may be surprised how much you like other suggestions.
Every glam bride needs some sequins in her life! What better place for them than the sweetheart table? With delicate florals as an accent, this dreamy setup is perfect for the glitter lover. Pure Lavish Events eventsbypurelavish.com
3. If you are receiving any color services prior to your big day, remember to do so approximately two weeks in advance. This gives you and your colorist time to really nail your color and make any needed changes to suit the needs of your final style. Color should be placed to complement or accentuate your final style. The Studio O thestudioo.com
Photos - The Studio O: WIl Cohen
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DECOR
HONEYMOON
Owner and Stylist of The Studio O, Long Beach
2. Wear a button-down shirt. The last thing any bride, or hairdresser, for that matter, wants is the final hair design being battered and deflated by removing a blouse over one’s head.
CAKE
Your wedding cake is the first thing people see when they enter your reception. Wow your guests with an over the top, four-tier wedding cake with cascading flowers. Colette's Catering colettesevents.com
Oscar Vasquez:
Locale Magazine BRIDAL GUIDE
WEDDING PLANNER TIPS
Wedding Party ESSENTIALS For Your Besties Standing Next to You When You Say, “I Do” Written By: Karli Karandos
MAID FOR EACH OTHER
BRIDESMAID DRESS At Vow to be Chic, they make finding the perfect bridesmaid dresses a piece of (wedding) cake by offering a wide ranging selection of different styles, colors, cuts, and more. The best part? You can rent them!
THE WELL-GRO OMED GRO OM
SUIT Mares Menswear offers custom tailored suits and a selection of exclusive brands, so you can look like a million bucks on the big day without having to spend a fortune.
Krystel Tien
Lead Stylist, Creative Director, and Founder of Couture Events coutureeventsca.com Establish your values and priorities first! Before you do anything else, sit down with your fiancé and discuss what is most important to you not just for the wedding, but in life, then use these things to set the values for your big day. When you are stuck on something in the planning process, refer back to your values and you will find the answer.
Mares Menswear maresmenswear.com
Vow to be Chic vowtobechic.com
Jessica Sukert CEO of Jessica Lauren Events jessicalauren.events
Don't be afraid to be bold with patterns and colors! Throw in an emerald green or a fun stripe to change things up.
BRIDESMAID GIFT A perfect gift for your bridesmaids is something they can enjoy long after the wedding festivities are over, and what better gift than a divine piece of Roberto Coin jewelry? The timeless designs will surely bring out the beauty in every member of your bridal party. Roberto Coin us.robertocoin.com
MOTHER OF THE BRIDE GET IN WITH GRAYSE Looking for a dress for the fabulous mother of the bride? Look no further than Grayse's Crystal Illusion dress, which is designed specifically for women who love quality, luxury, and style. Grayse shop.mkgrayse.com
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GROOMSMEN GIFT Give your groomsmen a gift they can drink and toast to such a memorable occasion! William Grant Glenfiddich whisky is the World’s Most Awarded single malt Scotch. William Grant & Sons williamgrant.com
Aubrey Huffman + Kenzie Swift Founders of Details, Darling detailsdarling.com
BOW TIE Keep your groomsmen looking dapper with a unique bowtie from Lord Wallington, where craftsmanship and pride in aesthetic converge to make unforgettable accessories. Lord Wallington lordwallington.com
Finding a venue is the most difficult part of planning because couples become very eager to find their ideal spot right away. Don't get overwhelmed in the beginning and don't make decisions too quickly. Be patient, take the process slowly, ask for venue recommendations from others and all the right pieces will fall into place.
Locale Magazine BRIDAL GUIDE
Places to PROPOSE
These top Southern California locations are prime spots to pop the question. From seaside views to a desert escape, it won’t be hard to say, ‘Yes’ after being wined and dined at one of these places.
SURF & SAND RESORT
SILVER TRUMPET
RED O TASTE OF MEXICO
1555 S Coast Hwy Laguna Beach, CA 92651 855.690.7114 www.surfandsandresort.com
Avenue of the Arts Costa Mesa 3350 Avenue of the Arts Costa Mesa, CA 92626 714.442.8593 www.silvertrumpetrestaurant.com
143 Newport Center Dr Newport Beach, CA 92660 949.718.0300 www.redorestaurant.com
THE LODGE AT TORREY PINES
WATER GRILL
HERMOSA BEACH PIER
11480 N Torrey Pines Rd La Jolla, CA 92037 858.453.4420 www.lodgetorreypines.com
3300 Bristol St Costa Mesa, CA 92626 949.208.7060 www.watergrill.com
1 Pier Ave Hermosa Beach, CA 90254 www.hermosabch.org
RED HERRING
EIGHT4NINE RESTAURANT & LOUNGE
PEAKS RESTAURANT
1661 Colorado Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90041 323.739.0004 www.redherringla.com
849 N Palm Canyon Dr Palm Springs, CA 92262 760.325.8490 www.eight4nine.com
1 Tramway Rd Palm Springs, CA 92262 760.325.4537 www.pstramway.com
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Locale Magazine BRIDAL GUIDE
THE 4C’S
The globally accepted standard for describing diamonds is via the “4Cs,” which were created by the GIA (Gemological Institute of America). They stand for cut, color, clarity and, of course, carat.
Cut:
The CROWN JEWEL All About the Cut, Clarity, Color, and Carats
RICHARD L. HAMMOND,
SENIOR GRADUATE GEMOLOGIST AT WINSTON’S CROWN JEWELERS
When it comes to planning the details of your wedding, Winston’s Crown Jewelers works magic to make you and your partner feel special for your exciting day. This family-owned and operated company will be one of your go-tos in Southern California for fine jewelry. Winston’s Crown Jewelers was first established in1969 in Costa Mesa with pride for quality, and to this day, the detail-oriented team puts forward the finest product.
Q: How do help a couple decide which ring is the right one? RH: Once our trained sales staff discusses your personal taste and style preferences, they will introduce you to hundreds of our quality designs. Our master goldsmith stands ready to assist you in custom orders as well. Our in-residence G.I.A Graduate Gemologist will also discuss in detail your choices for diamond quality: Clarity, color, cut and, cut weight.
Q: What’s the first steps Winston's Crown Jewelers take when first meeting a couple? Richard L. Hammond: The bridal department at Winston’s Crown Jewelers is beyond comparison. We have stones from one carat to 25 carats abound.
Q: Care to share a pro tip? RH: The decision on choosing the ring of a lifetime is important and Winston’s Crown Jewelers will make sure that every detail meets and exceeds your expectations!
The better the cut, the more the sparkle. Therefore, making this the most important of the 4Cs.
Color:
Colors are categorized by the 23-letter grade scale, as seen by the naked eye. In its purest form, referred to as a “D” color, a diamond is colorless. Of course, this is rare as traces of yellow or brown are usually present. There are ways of getting around imperfect colors, however. PRO TIP: A slightly yellow diamond pairs best with a yellow gold band. This will actually brighten up the diamond and make it appear more white. In this case, you’d want to steer clear of white gold or platinum.
Clarity:
This is the hard-tosee imperfections in diamonds, better known as inclusions. Experts at Blue Nile suggest maximizing budget by choosing an “eye-clean diamond,” which refers to grades VVSI (Very Very Slightly Included) to SI1 (Slightly Included). With a diamond of such qualities, inclusions aren’t visible without a loupe.
Carat:
Winston’s Crown Jewelers 100 West Coast Hwy 101 Newport Beach, CA 92663 949.642.5000 www.winstonscrownjewelers.com 88 LOCALE MAGAZINE
Shoppers typically gear to a one to two carat diamond, but stores like Winston’s Crown Jewelers carry up to 30 carat rings for a Kylie Jenner or Mariah Carey-style bling.
Written By: Ashley Ruiz
Locale Magazine BRIDAL GUIDE DIAMONDS FOR DAYS
There's a Cut of Diamond for Every Style
Marquise
A football-shaped diamond, the name is derived from the Marquise of Pompadour.
Carat MAGIC
Find the Jewels That Match You and Your Future Spouse
Round
The most popular diamond shape.
Oval
Ideal for one who likes the look of a round diamond, but wants something more unique.
MEHRAD SEPANJASA,
BRIDAL SPECIALIST AT TRADITIONAL JEWELERS
Pear
Q: How do you start the ring selection process after you first meet a couple? Mehrad Sepanjasa: I want to make sure that the customer has the best experience with me when they are shopping for wedding rings. It is important to gain trust with each potential client. Women tend to gravitate towards the engagement setting and the men tend to be focused on the diamond. Selecting the right ring takes patience. We are trained professionals that start the process by listening to the couple, asking questions and encouraging the couple to share ideas with each other. Q: Any common mistakes to avoid? MS: It’s easy to get overwhelmed in the beginning of the process. Try to focus on the shape of your center stone in the beginning of your journey. You will want to start narrowing down the shape of your center diamond before you start
looking for your setting. Every diamond shape is stunning on you but to reduce confusion, decide on one shape and then focus on ring styles with that shape. Q: Can you share one pro tip? MS: Smart buying isn't about finding the cheapest option but concentrating on finding the best value for the price. We will explain the subtleties that affect both value and beauty. Many jewelers today do not invest their time and resources on selecting diamonds for their inventory and by doing so, aren’t committed to finding the best values in today’s market. This limits the customer’s choices in the store and results in them simply choosing from what is being offered online. At Traditional Jewelers, we purchase our diamonds and are able to hand select the best in the marketplace. An engagement ring is a once-in-a-lifetime purchase and someday will be symbolic of your love for the next generation.
This is a combination of a round and a marquise shape, with a tapered point at the end
Square
Bold and unique on its own, this cut looks great without any cushion.
Emerald Cut
The long lines and dramatic flashes of light give this cut an elegant appeal.
Baquette
Side diamonds that surround the main stone.
Traditional Jewelers Fashion Island 817 Newport Center Dr Newport Beach, CA 92660 949.721.9010 www.traditionaljewelers.com 90 LOCALE MAGAZINE
Heart
The cut for all of the lovers out there.
Locale Magazine BRIDAL GUIDE
WHAT'S IN A WEDDING?
Here's the Scoop on Most Recent Wedding Statistics
15
Months is the average Length of Engagement
So CLASSIC
You Can't Go Wrong with a Beauty Like This
LEYLA FINKLE,
GENERAL MANAGER OF SWISS WATCH GALLERY & FINE JEWELERS Q: What’s your favorite part about helping a couple pick out jewelry? Leyla Finkle: That moment when they realize that they have found the piece of their dreams—and at an exceptional price. At Swiss Watch Gallery & Fine Jewelers, we create our own jewelry and designs, so we are able to give each client a one-of-a-kind creation, using the best possible gemstones and materials and featuring unsurpassed workmanship. And because we are family owned and operated, they are working directly with the designers, so there are no middlemen to add to the cost. Q: How do you feel about trends? LF: Trends certainly influence the design process. We strive to create current, wearable pieces, but we also believe fine jewelry should embody classic and timeless style—each piece should be able to be worn just as well 10, 20, 30 years from now or passed down as a treasured family keepsake.
Q: How do you help women decide which ring is the right one? LF: Jewelry is a very personal choice for most people; it is something that is worn close to the body and becomes a part of them. As we get to know each client’s personality, we help them discover styles that will fit with their lifestyle. We also make recommendations based on their individual attributes and encourage them to try new colors or profiles. When the client falls in love with a piece and doesn’t want to take it off, we know she has found the right one. Q: What small details make jewelry from SWG one-of-a-kind? LF: Each creation from Swiss Watch Gallery & Fine Jewelers is indeed one-of-a-kind because it has been individually handcrafted using the finest techniques and materials. That, coupled with our commitment to customer service—including lifetime warranties on our settings, complimentary cleanings and yearly refurbishing—make not only our jewelry unsurpassed, but shopping in our store a one-of-a-kind experience as well.
*According to The Knot
$35,329 is the average wedding cost
*According to The Knot, in 2016
$1,564 is the average wedding dress cost
*According to The Knot, in 2016
78%
of weddings take place from May to October *According to The Knot
81%
of brides take their spouse’s last name *According to The Knot
47% of brides do a bouquet toss
*According to The WeddingWire
Swiss Watch Gallery & Fine Jewelers 940 The Shops at Mission Viejo Mission Viejo, CA 92691 949.364.2500 www.swisswatchgallery.com 92 LOCALE MAGAZINE
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Locale Magazine BRIDAL GUIDE WHAT'S IN A WEDDING?
Here's the Scoop on Most Recent Wedding Statistics
124
is the average number of wedding guests *According to WeddingWire
One-of-a-Kind Go With a Unique Setting to Make a Statement
ALAN LEMMERMAN,
*According to WeddingWire
OWNER OF NATHAN ALAN JEWELERS Q: How do you start the engagement ring selection process with the future groom? Alan Lemmerman: Meeting with a future groom or future couple is one of the most rewarding parts of what I do. I have four kids, three of whom are married, and all of my kids have had their close friends come into my store to see me about engagement rings and wedding bands. I love their trust in me and I totally enjoy helping them find the perfect ring. I realize that typically this is one of the more important purchases the groom will make in his life. Therefore, I take this process very seriously and I want to make sure the groom knows he is in good hands. I actually try to put myself in my customer's shoes to see the potential purchase from their unique perspective. Listening and taking direction from the customer is key! Sometimes I see a future groom who is walking into a jewelry store for the first time, and sometimes I have a groom-to-be who has been to many. It is always an investigative process of finding out the needs of the customer at that moment of time and building on that encounter. At times the future groom has been given a few ring ideas from his bride-to-be. He may even have pictures of styles that are her favorites. Talking with the future groom or couple helps to tell me a story about their engagement ring desires, which helps to narrow down the selection process for them. Often that means that we customize different design details from multiple rings to come up with the perfect engagement ring. On the other hand, if the groom is just beginning his research, I feel it is important to provide him with an overview of diamond
50%
of couples wedding prep from a smartphone or tablet device
knowledge. We have created an excellent brochure that illustrates the 4 C’s in diamonds: carat, color, cut, and clarity that he can take with him. I enjoy helping the customer simplify the process, one step at a time, by giving the groom confidence with knowledge and providing ring options that are in sync with his desires. Finally and importantly, I like to make sure the process is enjoyable, fun, and memorable for all. Q: What small details at Nathan Alan Jewelers make your rings one-of-a-kind? AL: The uniqueness of Nathan Alan comes from our ability to make custom engagement rings and fine jewelry while closely collaborating with our customers to determine every detail that will be in the finished piece. It could be a very simple solitaire design where shape, scale and proportion are critical, or a very detail driven design with different setting styles and a lot of different sizes and shapes of diamonds included. We are very fortunate to have elite craftsmen who utilize their special skills to create one-of-a-kind rings at the highest level of quality. Q: What sets Nathan Alan Jewelers apart? AL: Throughout my 40 years in the jewelry business, I have strived to continuously improve the quality of our products. At the end of the day, the customers we serve at Nathan Alan enjoy the face to face relationship, they are able to see the quality and uniqueness in our designs, and appreciate our ability to deliver high quality and customized jewelry at an extremely competitive price.
30
years old is the average age of a bride *According to WeddingWire
32
years old is the average age of a groom *According to WeddingWire
$71
is the average price per head for catering *According to the Knot, 2016
64%
of couples created a wedding hashtag
*According to the Knot, 2016
Nathan Alan Jewelers South Coast Plaza 3333 Bristol St, Costa Mesa, CA 92626 714.545.8337 | www.nathanalanjewelers.com 94 LOCALE MAGAZINE
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STYLE/BEAUTY
BRINGING SEXY BACK Plastic Surgeon Dr. Justin West Helps Patients Achieve Their Ideal Form WRITTEN BY: ELAINE MORGAN CUTTING PHOTOGRAPHED BY: ANDREA DOMJAN The waiting areas of Finesse Plastic Surgery in Newport Beach are designed more like a living room than a doctor’s office. Comfort and style stand out in the cushioned armchairs, and welcoming, smiling faces greet newcomers cheerfully. Plastic surgery can be a stressful and uncomfortable decision, however, at the end of Finesse’s hallway sits Dr. Justin West, a plastic surgeon who shines as one of the most caring and genuine doctors in his field. Dr. West performed his first medical procedure when he was five years old. His father, who was a surgeon, had him remove a mole from his head. From there, Dr. West knew he wanted to follow his father into a medical career. On his first rotation in medical training, Dr. West ended up in plastic surgery and knew this was where he wanted to be. “There’s something very powerful about being able to rebuild somebody and put them back together and make them whole,” says Dr. West. “I think my journey was realizing, instead of taking people apart, it just made more sense to me to put them back together.” Dr. West began surgical work at Breastlink, a breast cancer treatment center where his father worked. This center supported all stages of breast cancer from diagnosis to treatment. Dr. West found that through plastic surgery, he could help complete the last stage, recovery and reconstruction, to make his patients whole again. “Cancer is a really devastating thing, and mastectomy scares the hell out of people. They think they’re going to be disfigured. Being part of that journey of putting somebody back together and restoring their wholeness, their femininity, their confidence, it’s a really special thing.” Over time, Dr. West found that his patients formed a deep bond of trust with him, enough to return and ask about other areas of their bodies that they felt were incomplete or made them uncomfortable. “Going to a cancer center is awkward for someone who’s just coming in for cosmetic procedures,” says Dr. West. “We decided we wanted a space that was appropriate for both types of patients, a practice that focuses on full spectrum plastic surgery.” In 2013, this idea of offering a space for anyone to discuss reconstruction or cosmetic surgery became a reality in Finesse. Whether it’s a reconstruction after cancer, removal, or a cosmetic procedure, trust and respect remain at the core of what Dr. West does. His practice and philosophy will always revolve around helping people take control of their bodies and their image. “It’s a stressful thing, talking about something that you’re self-conscious about, and I think that can be very uncomfortable,” says Dr. West. “We treat our patients like humans and like family and try to make them feel comfortable in our office… they choose what’s best for them, and then we’ll walk them through that journey whatever they choose.”
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ADVENTURE IS OUT THERE Dr. West is passionate about traveling and would love to be able to see more of the world. “I like to see the things you read about in history books as a kid,” says Dr. West. He’s already been to places like Kenya, Rwanda, Egypt, England, Ireland and Germany, but he’s most passionate about returning to Africa to see more of East Africa. BETTER TOGETHER Dr. West’s wife is also a doctor. She’s an ophthalmologist. “It’s easy to talk to her about work’s challenges,” says Dr. West. They currently have two young children: a three-year-old, a one-year-old and they are expecting a baby in April.
FINESSE PLASTIC SURGERY 1441 Avocado Ave, Ste 301 Newport Beach, CA 92660 949.272.2085 www.finesseplasticsurgery.com
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Photoshoot Location: IWINK STUDIOS 2646 Dupont Dr, Irvine, CA 92612 | 949.556.0550 | www.iwinkstudios.com
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1. Colorful Eyeshadow $10 2. The Painter: Airbrush Sponge $12 3. Classic Double Ended - Shape & Highlight #204 $28 4. V for V.O.L.U.M.E. Mascara $10 5. Cream Lip Stain $7 6. Beauty Amplifier Set and Refresh Spray $16 7. Contour Inner Rim Gel Eyeline $8 8. Instant Eye Makeup Remover $10 9. Hand Mask, Formulation Aloe Vera - Ultra-moisturizing & Beautifying $6 100 LOCALE MAGAZINE
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6. The Perfectionist: Airbrush Sponge $12 7. PRO Brow Brush $18 8. Flirty To Intense Purple Colorful 5 Eyeshadow Palette $25 9. Classic Double Ended Shadow & Crease #205 $20 10. Classic Double Ended Shape & Highlight #204 $28
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7. The Sculptor Airbrush Sponge $12 8. Rose Lip Balm & Scrub $6 9. Show Curl XL Lash Curler $16 10. The Painter Airbrush Sponge $15 11. Beauty Amplifier Perfecting & Smoothing Eye Primer $14
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T H AT ' S W H AT S H E S A I D
TOUR De LAGUNA ASHLEY TARKINGTON JACKEL of Ash n’ Fashn Explores Laguna Beach in Style
ASH N’ FASHN @ashnfashn www.ashnfashn.com Photoshoot Location: Laguna Beach, CA
WRITTEN BY: ASHLEY TARKINGTON JACKEL AND TAMARA PHILIPS PHOTOGRAPHED BY: ADAM GENTRY HAIR & MAKEUP BY: LAUREN SCACCIA
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With its gorgeous coastline and quaint small town feel, Laguna Beach is unlike anywhere I've ever been. I grew up in a neighboring city and have always loved the sense of escape I feel when I'm in Laguna. Clearly, I'm not alone as this once small artist village has become a tourist hotspot in recent years. Thanks in part to Pageant of the Masters, The Sawdust Festival and, of course, a little reality show that helped put this once hidden gem on the map. I now live up the coast a bit with my husband, French bulldog and soon-to-be baby girl. My name is Ashley Tarkington Jackel, and I'm a celebrity stylist and author of the fashion and lifestyle blog, Ash n' Fashn. I've always been infatuated with fashion, in fact when I was in second grade I purposely failed an eye exam so I could get reading glasses as an accessory. Even at seven years old I was looking for different ways to change up my look, and I haven't stopped since. Follow along with me as I share some of my favorite local spots in Laguna Beach. 110 LOCALE MAGAZINE
LUXEELLE NAIL BOUTIQUE 690 S Coast Hwy Laguna Beach, CA 92651 949.715.0995 www.luxeellenailboutique.com
ž LuxeElle Nail Boutique is a must stop for pampering. They have the best polish selection and really make you feel welcomed and relaxed with complimentary champagne or hot tea. I indulged in a pedicure and relaxing hand massage with one of their amazing exfoliating scrubs. At nine months pregnant it was just what I needed.
TAVERNA
222 Ocean Ave Laguna Beach, CA 92651 949.715.0821 www.tavernabylombardi.com
ž Our next stop was a little way down the road for lunch at Taverna. Located on Ocean Ave, this is a spot you don't want to miss on your next trip to Laguna. The restaurant is gorgeous, and if you come on one of the many sunny days, you can enjoy a meal al fresco on their sundrenched patio. Their menu has so much to offer from salads, antipasti, pizzas, fish, and more. I enjoyed the most delicious sea bass of my life, it was cooked to perfection and my mouth is still watering thinking back to it. I washed it down with a refreshing green juice mocktail, but if you're looking for something a little stronger, their Aperol Spritz is one of their most popular cocktails. I can't wait to try it post-pregnancy.
FETNEH BLAKE
427 N Coast Hwy Laguna Beach, CA 92651 949.494.3787 www.fetnehblake.com
To elevate your wardrobe, you’ll need to cruise in Fetneh Blake along North Coast Highway. This spot is a one-stop-shop for either a night out or weekend getaway. Full disclosure, Fetneh Blake is a bit more of a runway look rather than your everyday v-neck and jeans type of place, but hey, you deserve to make a statement when you walk in the room!
THE SHOP.
1020 S Coast Hwy Laguna Beach, CA 92651 949.715.8308 www.theshoplaguna.com
This is a perfect place to stop in on a sunny day when walking around Laguna with an acai bowl and your girlfriends. It has such a cute window front! The Shop. is Laguna Beach’s ultimate boho chic shop with beachy vibes. From swimsuits to tunics and oversized pullovers to midi and peasant dresses, you’re sure to find the perfect outfit for spring and summer.
NUANCE HOME + LIFESTYLE BOUTIQUE 1200 S Coast Hwy #103a Laguna Beach, CA 92651 949.494.8833 www.nuance-home.com
When planning your home with your significant other, this is the most dreamy home store to pick items from. Nuance has beautiful pieces of furniture, lighting fixtures, draperies, and more—even cute little items you can give as gifts like candles, jewelry, and dainty little jewelry dishes.
SPLASHES RESTAURANT
1555 S Coast Hwy Laguna Beach, CA 92651 888.281.3502 www.surfandsandresort.com/splashes
Beachfront dining has to be on everyone’s bucket list, right? Whether you choose breakfast, lunch, or dinner, the views are always stellar at Splashes Restaurant at The Surf and Sand Resort. Though spring can still be quite chilly, the outdoor heat lamps will wrap you in warmth as you sip your bubbly and enjoy your meal.
“Beachfront dining has to be on everyone’s bucket list, right? Whether you choose breakfast, lunch, or dinner, the views are always stellar at Splashes Restaurant at The Surf and Sand Resort.”
Congrats! During this editorial, Ashley was still pregnant. On March 14, she welcomed her baby girl, Crosby Brave Jackel.
“It's the perfect place to pick out an outfit for your next date night, girls night out, a gift for your bestie or just stock up on some great basics to get you through the season.”
SKYLOFT
BRUSSELS BISTRO
Brunchers rejoice! With an epic ocean view on the rooftop patio, this is a blissful way to spend a weekend morning. The Climb Over is a new breakfast flavor for me, but I loved it! It has slow cooked ribs in salsa verde served on top of garlic sticky rice, fried egg, and corn tortillas. With a touch of sour cream, chives, and cilantro atop it makes for a pleasantly tasty dish. Add an orange juice on the side to sip, and voila, perfection!
Brussels Bistro offers a fun ambiance to meet up with friends after work. Some Belgian beers, a bucket of mussels, and a side of fries create a recipe for a good time! They even have a replica of the “Manneken Pis” statue from Brussels, Belgium that depicts a little boy peeing into a fountain. Cover the kids’ eyes for this one!
422 S Coast Hwy Laguna Beach, CA 92651 949.715.1550 www.skyloftoc.com
BLUE EYED GIRL
1200 S Coast Hwy Laguna Beach, CA 92651 949.715.4646 www.shopblueeyedgirl.com
Finally, let me introduce you to your new best friend, Blue Eyed Girl. This boutique is just south of downtown on Pacific Coast Highway. They carry some of my favorite Southern California brands like Gorjana, Show Me Your Mumu, Misa Los Angeles, Wildfox and more. It's the perfect place to pick out an outfit for your next date night, girls night out, a gift for your bestie or just stock up on some great basics to get you through the season. It's truly a one stop shop for whatever fashionable find you're on the hunt for. 112 LOCALE MAGAZINE
Laguna Art A-Fair Beginning June 30, you can explore artwork not just from Laguna Beach locals, but from around the world. And on the weekends, there is live entertainment hosted for artgoers at Tivoli Too!
Go for a Dive Grab some flippers and goggles and head to Shaw's
Cove—it's the ideal Laguna Beach spot for snorkeling.
Laguna Beach Electric Bike Rental With an electric bike rental you can explore the Laguna Beach area at your own pace. And the best part? You won’t have to deal with beachtown parking!
URTH CAFFÉ
308 N Coast Hwy Laguna Beach, CA 92651 949.376.8888 www.urthcaffe.com
While Urth Caffé boasts some of the healthiest and tastiest breakfast food in Laguna Beach, beware—this spot fills up incredibly quick in the morning. Be sure to get there early! If you don’t make it there before the sun, don’t worry, you’ll be able to sip one of their organic coffees while you wait for a table. And if you’re lucky, you’ll be graced with one of the beautiful works of latte art by the talented barista staff.
222 Forest Ave Laguna Beach, CA 92651 949.376.7955 www.brusselsbistro.com
LA SIRENA GRILL
347 Mermaid St Laguna Beach, CA 92651 949.497.8226 www.lasirenagrill.com
There’s no comfort food like good Mexican food. This little hole in the wall has the tastiest tacos, burritos, tortas, and nachos in Laguna Beach. There isn’t a ton of room to sit, but if you’re eating all of the aforementioned items, you may want to stand and eat to burn the calories off! However, if you’re trying to behave, La Sirena Grill doesn’t make it difficult. The Avocado Lime Salad and blackened Wild Salmon Salad are absolutely delicious!
Thanks for letting me play tour guide for the day and hopefully you've added these spots to your list of places to visit on your next trip to Laguna Beach.
E AT
///DRINK APRIL 2017
PHOTO BY: Mathew Martinez
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SUMMER MICHELADA A Method to Michelada Madness
Celebrate This Cinco de Mayo With a Modelo Michelada at Red O Taste of Mexico
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EAT EXPERT Alicia Whitney Redefines Orange County Cuisine
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BOMB BLOODIES Clink With 8 of SoCal’s Best Bloody Marys
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MEALS DECONSTRUCTED Royal Hawaiian in Laguna Beach Reopens Their Doors With Island Fare
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EAT FEATURE 9 Can’t-Miss Spots to Try Your Next Trip to Lot 579
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SUMMER MICHELADA Celebrate This Cinco de Mayo Sipping on a Modelo Michelada
RED O TASTE OF MEXICO 143 Newport Center Dr Newport Beach, CA 92660 949.718.0300 www.redorestaurant.com
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EAT EXPERT
Shining
SEA
Restauranter Alicia Whitney Creates Cutting Edge Dining Concepts
WRITTEN BY: RYAN WHITEHEAD PHOTOGRAPHED BY: ANDREA DOMJAN
Expert: Alicia Whitney Credentials: CEO and Founder of Prjkt Restaurant Group Award-Winning Cuisine: Whitney has racked up the Golden Foodie Award for Best California Cuisine three years in a row, securing their spot in the Foodie hall of fame
Huntington Beach local restaurateur Alicia Whitney has always had a culinary vision for her hometown. With seven establishments spread throughout Huntington Beach, it’s safe to say Whitney’s vision has become reality, as each of her establishments has redefined the culinary scene in the city. From upscale California cuisine to Santa Maria-style BBQ, Whitney’s similarly named restaurants attract clientele either enjoying a time at the beach, making a fun day out of a Sunday brunch, or a nice night out on the town.
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“Every award, big or small, means something to me. It’s like the fuel in my tank—it keeps me going and pushing harder for success.” —Alicia Whitney
SEASALT WOODFIRE GRILL 21214 Beach Blvd Huntington Beach, CA 92648 www.seasaltwoodfiregrill.com LOCALE MAGAZINE 117
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“I envisioned this concept as if we were the hottest restaurant in Santa Maria in 1956 that was urban and obscure.” —Alicia Whitney
Q: How did you get into the restaurant business? Who or what inspired you? Alicia Whitney: My uncle owned Hurricane’s Bar and Grill, which he has owned since the ‘90s, and I started working for him in my early 20s, which catapulted my career in the business. Working events for him eventually led to me working for a nightclub and events for celebrities, and finally to working in Las Vegas and the casino world. While I was in Vegas, I worked at a venue that I helped transform into a country western bar. It was at that point when I decided to dedicate my life to make venues. I love to create—concept through inception and completion and at a restaurant you can create that mini-event feel everyday. 118 LOCALE MAGAZINE
DRIN K COCKTAILS, BE HA PPY u SeaSalt’s happy hour is Tuesday through Friday 5-6 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 4-6 p.m. Snag $5 Santa Maria Fries or $10 Grilled Wings plus get $2 off all wines and cocktails. ALICIA’S RESTAURA NTS : u SeaLegs Wine Bar u SeaSalt Woodfire Grill u SeaLegs Franchise Company u Prjkt Concessions
Give us a preview of some of your restaurants. What can we expect? AW: I have seven restaurants. SeaLegs is a nautical-themed wine bar that is very much an old meets new concept. If you took a 1955 Armani's yacht and combined it with the Hamptons, San Francisco, Napa, and Huntington Beach, that’s what it would look like. This wine bar concept stands out from others as it plays on travel, living in the moment, and femininity. We were able to bring the SeaLegs brand into LAX as well, as a modified version of the Huntington Beach location.
Q:
SeaSalt is a concept that I put in years of research, creativity, and thinking outside the box. I decided to create a concept that was the opposite of SeaLegs, so I dived into what Huntington Beach was missing, and that answer was a great steak and BBQ. Our search took us up north to Santa Maria, where they grill dry-rubbed Tri-tip over red oak wood. We moved two pitmasters from Santa Maria so the food and flavor are authentic. I envisioned this concept as if we were the hottest restaurant in Santa Maria in 1956 that was urban and obscure. I imagined if we were in the butcher’s house and that he was crazy. We completed the dining room with obscure pictures of broads drinking and the skinny butcher holding up links of sausages, along with incorporating hiphop genre into our theme with our trademark line “smoke meat everyday.” Q: What are some of your favorite dishes from your restaurants? AW: I have many favorites from all restaurants, and they’re all delicious. The Stinky Fries at SeaLegs, a plate of fresh-cut fries with a threecheese truffle fondue topped with parmesan shavings is one of my favorites along with our halibut dish sauteed in butter put over rice and BBQ carrots, topped with carrot pesto sauce. The Chorizo Hash is a top favorite at brunch. It’s fingerling potatoes with a corn medley mixed in a skillet with a fried egg on top, your ultimate hangover dish. To round it out, our wagyu meatball put into a black skillet, topped with our housemade marinara and melted burrata cheese. SeaSalt has many delicious items as well— from our tri-tip to our secret recipe linguica sausage. Many of our starters are my favorites like the tri-tip nachos, covered in a dehydrated red bell pepper manchego cheese sauce and tri-tip enchiladas topped with our homemade red sauce.
Q: That all sounds delicious! Have you won any awards? AW: When you’re in the grind and working hard, you don’t think about the awards. You can be just working, then all of a sudden you’re showered with something, and it comes unexpectedly. The most significant award had to be when SeaLegs first opened, I was just trying to get the business going, and out of nowhere I was nominated for Best California Cuisine in Orange County at the Golden Foodie Awards, which I eventually won. SeaLegs had only been open for two months at the time. I also won Entrepreneur of the Year award in Orange County as well as Businesswoman of the Year. I remember being invited to this luncheon with senators, representatives, and all these people who had flown in from Sacramento. I started to wonder why I was here, but then I received 24 plaques from all these representatives with their personal signatures on them. I have four Golden Foodie Awards for SeaLegs as of now. Every award, big or small, means something to me. It’s like the fuel in my tank—it keeps me going and pushing harder for success. Q: How are you involved in the community? What kind of events do you put on? What causes do they go towards? AW: I currently sit on the board of Visit HB and the Chamber of Commerce. I have started an organization that works in correlation with the Chamber of Commerce to bring together age 40 and younger entrepreneurs and breed an environment where they can come and start a business. I started this as a legacy project that I wanted to leave behind, as I started my first business at the age of 31. I occasionally open my restaurants to host community events and I’m always ready to donate, sponsor, and do whatever to help anyone in the community. For this coming Earth Day, we have a massive event planned, in which we’re gonna partner up with Corona and the state parks and conduct a massive beach cleanup. Q: Where are you when you're not working? AW: Whenever I’m not working, you can always find me at home with my daughter and husband. I occasionally travel up to Lake Tahoe, and always try to spend as much quality time with my family as possible. Family to me is the most important thing I could be doing right now.
EAT/DRINK
ABSO-BLOODY-LUTELY Bacon, Burgers, and Celery Topped Goodness WRITTEN BY: ASHLEE POLAREK PHOTOGRAPHED BY: NATHAN WHELAN
A loaded bloody mary is the perfect addition to your Sunday brunch— especially photo-worthy when it’s stacked as high as your face! Whether you’re looking for a bomb bloody in your own backyard or you’re wanting to explore a bit, we’ve got you covered with some of the best bloodies in Southern California.
ORANGE COUNTY Buddy’s Bloody Mary Ò A bloody mary of massive proportions, Buddy’s Bloody at Lighthouse Bayview Cafe is fresh and filling. The 32-ounce bloody is made up of a homemade mix, and is garnished with fresh lemon and lime, pickled asparagus, crisp celery, crumbly gorgonzola, a green olive, salami, a cherry tomato and a pickled pearl onion plus a chili salted rim. The enormous drink lives up to the man (Buddy) it was inspired by.
LOS ANGELES
PALM SPRINGS
SAN DIEGO COUNTY
Mama Betty’s Bloody Mary
BLT Mary
Jurassic Pork Bloody Mary
Ò Inspired by Grandma Betty, Mamma Betty’s Bloody Mary features a spicy habanero infused vodka, made in house, and a refreshing and flavorful homemade bloody mary mix. To avoid the usual, the Bellwether garnishes their bloody with a mini BLT, a peperoncini, a cornichon and bacon salt around the rim.
Ò House-made bloody mary mix and homemade bacon infused vodka sends the BLT Mary at Jake’s right to the top. This meal in a cup is garnished with a skewer of crispy applewood bacon, fresh lettuce, tomato and a perfect piece of toast. Great for curing a hangover or starting the day off with bacon boozy goodness.
The Bellwether thebellwetherla.com
Jake’s Palm Springs jakespalmsprings.com
Sunday Bloody Sunday
Franken Mary
Ò The Sunday Bloody Sunday at Rock and Brews is a classic hit. Garnished with savory bacon, celery sticks, lemon and lime, three olives, pickled okra, and a deliciously spiced rim, this bloody mary will have you wanting to rock and roll all night.
Ò This 32-ounce behemoth truly is a meal in a cup. The homemade bloody mary mix is garnished with crisp celery stalks, asparagus, a Slim Jim, a melty cheeseburger slider, a shrimp skewer, two chicken wings, bacon, two cheese sticks, and a garnish kabab made up of fresh lemon, lime and orange wedges, olive, onion and cherry.
Rock and Brews rockandbrews.com
Sloan’s Restaurant sloansrestaurant.com
Ramos House Bloody Mary Ò The stacked-to-the top Ramos House Bloody Mary has been around for 19 years. Created as a cure for a New Year’s Eve hangover, this delectable drink is one for the books. Made with soju and house crafted mary mix, the unique drink is topped with a Scotch quail egg, pickled string beans and a crab claw. Ramos House Cafe ramoshouse.com
Ò The Jurassic Pork Bloody Mary from Breakfast Republic is garnished with thick cut bacon, celery, olives, a tangy lemon wedge, and a cornichon. The mouth watering Jurassic Pork bacon, a crowd favorite at the restaurant, is marinated in brown sugar and paprika, delivering balanced spicy and sweet flavor that perfectly tops the brilliantly colored bloody. Breakfast Republic in Encinitas breakfastrepublic.com BBQ Bloody Mary Ò Jalapeño infused vodka, house made mary mix and barbecue sauce are what makes the base of this unique bloody mary delicious. On top you’ll find a two- to three-boned cut of smoked pork baby back ribs, a green olive, fresh celery stick, house pickled okra and green beans, and a brisket rub rimmed glass, sure to have you licking your fingers asking for seconds. That Boy Good Southern BBQ Joint thatboygoodbbq.com
Buddy’s Bloody Mary • Lemon and Lime • Asparagus • Celery • Gorgonzola • Green Olive • Salami • Cherry Tomato • Pearl Onion • Chili Salted Rim
Lighthouse Bayview Cafe lighthousenb.com
Photoshoot Location: LIGHTHOUSE BAYVIEW CAFE 1600 W Balboa Blvd Newport Beach, CA 92663 949.933.1001 www.lighthousenb.com
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M EALS DECONSTRUCTED
With ALOHA ROYAL HAWAIIAN SERVES UP AUTHENTIC HAWAIIAN CUISINE
WRITTEN BY: CHARLA BATEY PHOTOGRAPHED BY: REBECCA GNASSO
ROYAL HAWAIIAN 331 N Coast Hwy Laguna Beach, CA 92651 949.715.1470 www.royalhawaiianlb.com
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HOISIN GLAZED PORK SPARERIBS Ingredients: HOISIN SAUCE: Pineapple Puree Marin Wine Ginger Ginger Compound Butter Chicken Stock SHAVED ASIAN VEGETABLES: Red and Yellow Bell Peppers Red Onion Fennel Enoki Mushrooms Daikon Sprouts Sambal Vinaigrette
I
In the heart of Laguna Beach sits an escape to an island paradise in the form of the historic Royal Hawaiian restaurant, originally opened in 1947. One step inside the intimate eatery and you are greeted with a flower lei and surrounded by tiki statues, vintage Martinique banana leaf wallpaper with bay leaves, retro pineapple, tribal light fixtures, and ample windows with views of lush green foliage with bright red pops of anthurium flowers. General Manager and Acting Executive Chef George Poulos’ laid back and welcoming personality suits the vibe, and a large full bar has you feeling more relaxed as bartenders serve up the Lapu Lapu signature cocktail. A rum based libation with the sweet and tangy trio of pineapple, passion fruit,
and orange juice pairs nicely with the tunes from artists like Bob Marley and Israel Kamakawiwo'ole playing in the background. As you sit back and imagine the sound of crashing waves and the mountain views, the sweet smell of Hoison Glazed Babyback Pork Spareribs soon will overtake your senses. A contemporary twist on classic Pacific Rim ribs, this dish also plays to the savory duo of sweet and spicy with dominating flavors like the hoisin sauce with pineapple puree, grated ginger, shoyu, sambal sauce, and fresh red and green peppers. A fried rice finished with sweet chili sauce, lime juice, cilantro, and toasted macadamia nuts round out the generous portion of ribs and leaves you primed for a nice, long island rest under the sun.
FRIED RICE: Pineapple Red and Green Peppers Bok-Choy Ginger Jalapeño Garlic Red Onion Sesame Oil Olive Oil Calrose Rice Raw Eggs Marin Wine Shoyu Sweet Chili Sauce Lime Cilantro Macadamia Nuts
LAPU LAPU Ingredients: 1 ½ oz. Pineapple Juice 1 ½ oz. Orange Juice ½ oz. Passion Fruit Puree 2 oz. White Rum 1 oz. Dark Rum
“THERE HAS BEEN A TRADITION HERE FROM WHEN THE RESTAURANT FIRST OPENED MANY YEARS AGO, TO ALWAYS SERVE CERTAIN DISHES THAT ARE POPULAR IN HAWAII, BEARING IN MIND THAT HAWAII IS A VERY MIXED CUISINE WHERE ALL THE PACIFIC RIM ENDED UP DONATING THEIR KNOWLEDGE AND RECIPES TO HAWAII.” 124 LOCALE MAGAZINE
Q: When designing dishes, how do you go about invoking the Hawaiian spirit? George Poulos: There has been a tradition here from when the restaurant first opened many years ago, to always serve certain dishes that are popular in Hawaii, bearing in mind that Hawaii is a very mixed cuisine where all the Pacific Rim ended up donating their knowledge and recipes to Hawaii. These influences include Japanese, Chinese, Portuguese, and Spanish and it all emerged into a fusion of the Pacific Rim. We came up with recipes that were in place here before and now we’ve made some adaptions including Californian influences. Q: What flavors are unique to the Royal Hawaiian? GP: When you are talking about flavors that come from certain products, we put a lot of play on pineapple and sugar and sweetness of certain sauces and then also the spiciness that people like. The fusion of spicy and sweet comes out a lot in Hawaiian food, so we use lots of Asian spices like red peppers, hoisin sauces, and hangzhou sauce of the east. Q: How has the resurrection of the restaurant impacted the menu? GP: The original menus, which we still have, had to evolve because they were kind of basic. Some of the public insisted on them being the same, so we did our very best to try to make them the same, however others, we allowed to morph into a more contemporary style. The way people are wanting food today is more healthy, leaner, and more freshly prepared with vegetable chutes like ginger, carrot and bell peppers. We tried a middle of the road approach. Q: What is coming for your summer menus? GP: We just introduced lobster tail, using Pacific coast local lobster. We have tested that out by having it served single (on the urn) or twin tails. We have also introduced the steak and lobster served in the traditional Californian way, with the lobster protruding from the shell and roasted in lemon butter with a touch of paprika. We do shrimp such as a coconut shrimp and the only pork dish we do is the spare rib. We have two styles of spare ribs; Danish cut riblets for the lunch menu with a sweet sticky sauce and an Asian fusion style [like the dish deconstructed] for dinner. Our three signature salads on the menu includes the Ono Ono, a famous salad from the old days, which is a very simple but tasty mixture of bibb and butter lettuce with a dressing made with canola, mayonnaise, blue cheese, lemon and salt and pepper. We serve desserts that are prepared in-house by our pastry chef.
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WHO WILL FOODIES APPRECIATE?
POPBAR 714.369.8212 | www.pop-bar.com
A PEEK IN TO LOT 5 7 9 : HU N T IN GTON B E ACH’S N E WE ST E AT E RY E XP E R IE N CE
WRITTEN BY: ELAINE MORGAN CUTTING PHOTOGRAPHED BY: ED VISIONS
LOT 579 AT PACIFIC CITY 21010 Pacific Coast Hwy Huntington Beach, CA 92648 www.gopacificcity.com
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BEAR FLAG FISH CO.
LOCATED DIRECTLY ON THE SCENIC PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY IN HUNTINGTON BEACH
sits the delightfully trendy and exciting PACIFIC CITY shopping center. Lot 579 hosts hot-name retail brands, fantastic restaurants, niche hipster outlets, ping-pong and foosball tables, fantastic views of the Huntington Beach Pier, and, of course, a collection of gourmet food vendors in Lot 579. This modern cafeteriastyle eatery hosts everything from burgers to champagne. No matter what you’re craving, there’s a wide variety of selections that will satisfy the whole day from your morning coffee to fish tacos, delicious snacks, fresh dinners, and delectable dessert. Here are the 12 highlights of Lot 579 and the must-have orders for each location.
MUST ORDER:
BEAR FLAG FISH TACOS At Bear Flag Fish Co., you’ll find some of the freshest fish available because they do the work and fillet whole in-house rather than waiting to receive already filleted, and the difference in quality is astounding! Tacos are based on a wide selection of fish options, spices, and styles for you to mix and match depending on what you’re in the mood for. The fish is grilled, and tacos are made with fresh ingredients every day. It’s simple, healthy, and delicious. “The best food is fresh, no frills healthy food,” says manager Benjamin Gregson. Also, the beachside view doesn’t hurt! BEAR FLAG FISH CO. 714.374.0558 www.bearflagfishco.com
MUST ORDER:
PIG FAT AND TRUFFLE RAGU WITH PAPPARDELLE PASTA This newest location of il Barone is operated by the second generation of Barones to continue a longstanding family tradition of ingenious Italian cuisine. They offer everything from pizza and pasta to calzones and salad, and a fantastic mozzarella bar, each of which can be enjoyed with a wide selection of wine, beer, or gelato. The Pig Fat and Truffle Ragu has quickly become a customer favorite. “I came up with it on a whim when a customer had told me to surprise them and it has followed me ever since,” says Chef Jonathan Barone. “It’s definitely a dish you won’t find anywhere else!” IL BARONE ITALIAN STREET FOOD 714.374.1065 www.ilbaroneristorante.com
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Make sure to grab a hot latte for some exciting latte art, which will undoubtedly shine as a coffee masterpiece in every delicious cup.
MUST ORDER:
MOCHA
Enchanting aromas of roasted coffee from Portola Coffee Lab wafts well beyond the stools of the delightful little coffee bar in the center of Lot 579. Gathered from all around the world, roasted fresh daily, and carefully brewed with science lab-like craftsmanship, Portola’s coffee is truly an inspiration for any serious coffee drinker. Make sure to grab a hot latte for some exciting latte art, which will undoubtedly shine as a coffee masterpiece in every delicious cup. “We allow our baristas to be super creative,” says Portola owner Christa Duggan. “So, the customer never knows what they’re gonna get.” PORTOLA COFFEE LAB 714.374.0616 | www.portolacoffeelab.com
WHAT’S IN A NAME? The name Lot 579 is based off the lifeguard towers 5, 7, and 9, which are located directly across from Pacific City.
MUST ORDER:
MORE THAN JUST FOOD Pacific City hosts ongoing events throughout the month for guests to enjoy beyond shopping and awesome views. Live music is held on Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. The soft and exciting foamfilled kids’ play area also plays host to PC Grommets, a regular story and activity time held the third Tuesday of every month for the younger shoppers who may not be interested in retail just yet.
STRAWBERRY CREAM CHEESE CUPCAKE Frosted Cupcakery is owned by a mother and daughter team who are passionate about homestyle cupcakes and perfecting homestyle traditional recipes for that warm, familiar taste. Everything is made in-store fresh every morning, so these gourmet sweets are never sold dull. The Strawberry Cream Cheese Cupcakes are flavored with chunks of real strawberries directly in the cake and mixed in the cream cheese frosting. Frosted doesn’t deal with any of this artificial flavoring nonsense. “The reason it tastes like strawberries is because it has strawberries in it,” says owner Stacia Samartan. “And it’s also really cute, so there’s that too!” FROSTED CUPCAKERY 714.374.1080 | www.frostedcupcakery.com
MUST ORDER:
MEAT PIE COMING SOON vomFass, a unique and delightful venue for handcrafted vinegar, oils, spirits, and spices is set to open oin early June. Other upcoming venues include Beau Soleil Kitchen, a French sidewalk café.
MUST ORDER:
PINEAPPLE SHERBERT Hans’ Homemade Ice Cream has been around since 1972, and it’s not hard to see how it’s stuck around for so long. The ice cream is always made in-house from premium high butterfat to make it delicious and astoundingly rich. “When you taste us, you’ll know right away,” says Manager Cole Gatchell. “It’s really creamy and really tasty!” The variety of exciting flavors also sets Hans’ apart. One of their most popular items is the Pineapple Sherbert. It’s truly a magical dessert worthy of the sweet name. HANS’ HOMEMADE ICE CREAM 714.979.8815 www.hanshomemade.com
The gourmet meat pies found at Pie-Not are the creation of owner and Australian-raised Jai Snowdon, who took the beloved Australian dish and added a new spin, making it handheld. The result is like a chicken pot pie, only thicker, easier to eat, and certainly more delicious. “It’s an old favorite, but a new way to put it,” says Snowdon. There are many options like beef, lamb, and even vegetarian. However, nothing beats the Classic Dog’s Eye meat pie. Made with Angus ground beef, minced onions, garlic, and a tomato Worcestershire gravy stuffed between a solid short crust and a fluffy puff pastry lid; it’s truly a fantastic, hearty meal. PIE-NOT 949.650.7437 www.pienot.com
“It’s the perfect balance of numerous flavors that instead of competing, blend together for a sensory experience.” —Jeremy Saenz, Owner of The American Dream
MUST ORDER:
MUST ORDER:
The Dudes’ Brewing Company is as chill as their name. Offering a laid-back environment and several Dudes’ beers on tap, this familyowned craft brewery specializes in innovative approaches to classic beer. They even offer fun events like weekly trivia nights, monthly comedy shows, or Yoga and Beer mornings. “A must have is our CalifornIPA,” said President and Founder of The Dudes’ Brewing Company, Toby “The Dude” Humes. “It’s a perfectly balanced West Coast IPA that will appeal to casual beer drinkers and craft beer fanatics alike.” Another brew to try is the Double Trunk American Double/Imperial IPA.
Mahogany Smoked Meats has been serving premium jerky since 1922, and its rich history shows in their meats. Smoked long and deep with mahogany logs, the top quality jerky is available in preservative-free beef, turkey, elk, and bison and come in fantastic flavors like Habanero, Sweet n’ Spicy, Chipotle Bourbon, and more. The Sweet n’ Spicy Brisket is made from thin slices of brisket, which are marinated with honey, soy sauce, pepper, and Tabasco sauce. The strips are then cut again before cooking. “This unique process and flavorful marinade create the perfect chewy texture and flavor,” says Owner Brandon Mojarro.
CALIFORNIPA
MUST ORDER:
CHOCOLATE DIPPED POPSICLE The delightful diagonally dipped chocolate popsicles at Popbar have become something of an icon in Orange County and it’s not hard to see why. The frozen treats are delicious, made in-house with fresh ingredients and no preservatives, and are so darn fun! Popsicle connoisseurs can choose from an array of vibrant popsicle flavors, then mix and match between five types of dipping sauces and seven different toppings. “It’s an unlimited combination you can choose from,” says owner Jacky Chan. The dipping happens right at the bar with extra flourish, and the result is nothing short of delicious artwork on a stick. POPBAR 714.369.8212 www.pop-bar.com
THE DUDES’ BREWING COMPANY 714.461.4111 www.thedudesbrew.com
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SWEET N’ SPICY BRISKET
MAHOGANY SMOKED MEATS 714.374.2399 www.smokedmeats.com
MUST ORDER:
PROSCIUTTO BURRATA BURGER The welcoming atmosphere of The American Dream is as fun and fresh as the burgers they produce. The must-have order here is the delightfully savory Prosciutto Burrata Burger. Made with a chuck brisket patty, oven roasted tomatoes, house-made garlic aioli, pesto, arugula, and of course, burrata cheese and sliced prosciutto; it’s a truly inspiring combination of rich and bitter. “It’s the perfect balance of numerous flavors that instead of competing, blend together for a sensory experience,” says owner Jeremy Saenz. The burger is immensely popular, but it also holds a special meaning, as it was invented by Saenz’s “better half” Samantha Razo. THE AMERICAN DREAM 714.374.1330 www.theamericandreamhb.com
INDULGE FOR THE GREATER GOOD Come and experience Lot 579 on Thursday, May 11 from 7-9 p.m., as Locale hosts a delicious night of food, fun, cocktails, music, and more! Your $20 ticket gives you access to a complimentary cocktail, as well as sips and tastes from all of the food hall purveyors. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Surfrider Foundation! For more information, please visit http://bit.ly/ TasteofLOT579
YOU’RE THE PING TO MY PONG With stylish open seating, free Wi-Fi, and ping pong tables, Lot 579 is designed to hang out and enjoy the presence of friends or even strangers. For guests who’d like to play at the ping-pong tables, Burnt Crumbs has the equipment. All you need to do is ask!
MUST ORDER:
SPAGHETTI GRILLED CHEESE Burnt Crumbs is not your typical deli. Most everything is made from scratch and that includes the mayonnaise and sauces. “We put love in our food and it shows,” says Manager Jon Ho. The Spaghetti Grilled Cheese began as the leftover remnants of the owner’s empty fridge, now it’s the most popular item on the menu. It’s exactly what it sounds like; spaghetti, fresh mozzarella, and marinara sauce grilled in between two slices of sourdough bread. It’s by far the location’s most unique sandwich and definitely the most satisfying. Additionally, this sandwich is based off one of the chef’s original dishes called “burnt spaghetti,” which contributed to the restaurant’s name “Burnt Crumbs.” BURNT CRUMBS 714.374.0777 www.burntcrumbs.com
MUST ORDER:
CHÂTEAU DE BLIGNY Petals & Pop began with a tradition to pop champagne for a bride while arranging her floral decorations, then it turned into the charming champagne bar and flower shop seen today.
PETALS & POP www.petalsandpop.com
The Spaghetti Grilled Cheese began as the leftover remnants of the owner’s empty fridge, now it’s the most popular item on the menu.
EAT/DRINK
Photoshoot Location RED O TASTE OF MEXICO 143 Newport Center Dr Newport Beach, CA 92660 949.718.0300 www.redorestaurant.com
A METHOD TO
MICHELADA MADNESS Celebrate This Cinco de Mayo With a Modelo Michelada at Red O Taste of Mexico WRITTEN BY: ELENA KHURY PHOTOGRAPHED BY: MATHEW MARTINEZ
Looking for where to spend Thirsty Thursday this Cinco de Mayo? Red O Taste of Mexico at Fashion Island Newport Beach is the place to be! With amazing Mexican cocktails and great food specials, Red O has what you need to celebrate Cinco de Mayo. Our personal favorite is the Modelo Michelada. If you have never tried this drink before, just imagine a Mexican bloody mary with an ice cold cerveza (beer). A michelada’s flavor reflects the true origin of its name, mi chela helada, means "my cold beer." It’s a fun drink that starts with authentic Mexican beer—like Modelo Especial—mixed with salt,
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lime, ice, and a mixer of your choice. Heat things up with your favorite spices, add any garnish you can imagine, and enjoy! This Cinco de Mayo at Red O Taste of Mexico, celebrate with live music and food and drink specials all night including $5 beer, $5 Modelo Micheladas, and $10 Cabo Wabo Margaritas. Live music will include classic rock in the bar and lounge, and a DJ featuring tropical beats in the outdoor pavilion. Also, enjoy complimentary Cabo Wabo shot girls and a Grand Marnier bar. Join the party at Red O Taste of Mexico this Cinco de Mayo; you won’t want to miss out on all the fun!
HOW TO MAKE A RED O TASTE OF MEXICO MICHELADA Ingredients: • 12 oz. Modelo Especial • 3/4 oz. Fresh Lime Juice • 1/4 oz. Bloody Mary Seasoning mix • 1/4 oz. Worcestershire Sauce • 1/4 oz. Tomato Juice • Dash of Tapatio • Salt • Pepper • Lime • Ice
PHOTO BY: Damien Noble Andrews
GO 139
DO EXPERT A Child Shall Lead Them
Meet Seven Young Influencers Who Have Made Their Passions a Reality
///DO
APRIL 2017
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DO EXPERT These Young Do Experts are Killing it at Life
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WETWOOD SMOKES Costa Mesa-based Band Wetwood Smokes Opens for Save Ferris
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HUMANITARIAN FEATURE Don’t Mess With These Bikers
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FIRST TIMER'S GUIDE Your Guide to a Weekend in Santa Barbara
LOCKER BOARD SKATEBOARDS 949.554.4448 www.lockerboard.net Photoshoot Location: SAN CLEMENTE, CA
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A CHILD DO EXPERT
SHALL LEAD
THEM
MEET 7 YOUNG INFLUENCERS WHO HAVE MADE THEIR PASSIONS A REALITY WRITTEN BY: NICOLE HAKIM PHOTOGRAPHED BY: DAMIEN NOBLE ANDREWS AND JANE CHOUTEAU
If you’ve ever heard the phrase that the youth are the future, then you should know that it is entirely true. With their boundless imaginations and endless motivation, they do whatever they can to make their dreams come true and help others in the process. Whether they are trying to clean up the environment, flying across the map, guiding people to a healthier lifestyle, creating a new useful invention, working with a team to score a win, climbing a mountain or using their skills as a chef to help kids find light in the darkness, each one of our determined young Do Experts are on his or her way to show others just how far one can go, if they only put their best foot forward.
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“IT’S A DIRTY JOB, BUT SOMEBODY HAS TO DO IT.” — VA N I S BUCKHOLZ
VANIS BUCKHOLZ
CREATOR OF MY RECYCLER AGE: 14
The earth is a beautiful place, but unfortunately, not many are committed to preserving its beauty. Meet Vanis Buckholz, the creator of My ReCycler, which aims to clean up streets, beaches, parks and much more by picking up trash and recycling it. In his seventh year of business, Vanis has collected over 75,000 pounds of trash and has joined the Project Hope Alliance, a charity that helps homeless children in Orange County. With his involvement, he has not only helped the environment, but also the people who call the earth their home. Seeing someone so young take care of the environment is truly inspiring, and as Vanis says, “It’s a dirty job, but somebody has to do it.” 140 LOCALE MAGAZINE
Q: What inspired you to get into recycling? Vanis Buckholz: It was for an Earth Day project in elementary school. I picked recycling because it seemed like a smart thing to do. Once I started, I thought we should keep doing it. When I realized we could make money doing it, we started the business. My grandpa always told me to start a business, so I did. Q: How did you come up with the name “My ReCycler?” VB: I started my business on my scooter and then on my bike; that’s how I got to all my customers. The name matches what I actually do: I recycle and I ride my bike. Q: Were there ever times of struggle? How did you push forward? VB: Yes, because it grew so fast, it was
hard to keep everything organized. I just focused on what I had to do. I took care of my commitments and stayed organized. Q: What plans do you have for your business in the future? VB: I want to grow it as big as I can and add other services. I’d like to get my own recycling yard and hire others to join it. Q: How does it feel to be considered one of Orange County’s most influential “Game Changers?” VB: Wow! It’s shocking. I’ve been doing this for half of my life, so it’s nothing unusual. It’s still really cool. Q: What is one of your biggest achievements while in business? VB: That would probably be helping other kids.
I’D LIKE TO GET MY OWN RECYCLING YARD AND HIRE OTHERS TO JOIN IT.”
PHOTOGRAPHED BY: DAMIEN NOBLE ANDREWS
— VA N I S B U C K H O L Z
A PIECE OF ADVICE
Buckholz says the most important thing for people to help is to do something.
STAY ACTIVE
When he’s not recycling, Buckholz likes to spend time sports car racing with his dad, hanging out with his friends, surfing, skateboarding, go-kart racing and playing basketball, volleyball and golf.
MY RECYCLER www.myrecycler.org Photoshoot Location: ORANGE COUNTY RECYCLING CENTER 1601 E Edinger Ave Santa Ana, CA 92705 LOCALE MAGAZINE 141
“THE FACT THAT I CAN SHOW THEM A DIFFERENT OPPORTUNITY AT LIFE BRINGS SATISFACTION TO MINE. I WISH TO SHOW MANY KIDS IN THE UNITED STATES THE SAME THING.” —ISAIAH COOPER
ISAIAH COOPER
YOUNGEST AFRICAN AMERICAN TO FLY ACROSS THE US AGE: 17
To many, the idea of flying can be quite scary. To others, it’s a merely a way to get from one place to another. To Compton-native Isaiah Cooper, flying is a sense of freedom and accomplishment. At the age of only 16, Cooper achieved a milestone last July, as he became one of the youngest people to fly across the United States. The 8,000-mile flight took two weeks, and though this is quite an accomplishment, Cooper is far from finished. He hopes to take his passion to the next level and become the youngest person to fly around the globe. 142 LOCALE MAGAZINE
Q: When did you want to become a pilot? Isaiah Cooper: I was a young kid, and I wanted to do it as a hobby. I was five or six years old at the time.
The fact that I can show them a different opportunity at life brings satisfaction to mine. I wish to show many kids in the United States the same thing.
Q: It sounds really scary! How do you keep calm and push forward? IC: I don’t really have moments of doubt. I’ve been in an accident before, so I’m ready for what flying brings.
Q: What advice do you have for kids on how to follow their dreams? IC: Stay focused, stay positive, stay around positive people who want to encourage you, and put your best foot forward in school. Everything you learn in school will help you in real life.
Q: Have you flown any of your family? IC: No. I don’t have a license yet, and on top of that, most of them are scared of planes, so it’s going to be hard. Q: Have you met any young children inspired by your adventures? How does it make you feel? IC: Oh, yes. Some will contact me online or through social media. I’ll sign autographs and take photos. I love inspiring them.
Q: How did it feel when you were flying 8,000 miles around the US? IC: I loved it. It’s a sense of freedom you won’t get from driving a car. I love flying through the clouds; it’s so exciting. Q: What do you have planned for the future? IC: I would actually like to open my own organization. Hopefully I can make it so kids can get the same chance I did.
IT’S A SENSE OF FREEDOM YOU WON’T GET FROM DRIVING A CAR. I LOVE FLYING THROUGH THE CLOUDS; IT’S SO EXCITING.”
PHOTOGRAPHED BY: DAMIEN NOBLE ANDREWS
— I S A I A H C OO P E R
BALLIN’
When he’s not flying, Cooper also enjoys playing baseball and basketball.
DREAM FLIGHT
Cooper says his dream flight destination is Jamaica.
Photoshoot Location: COMPTON AIRPORT 901 W Alondra Blvd Compton, CA 90220 LOCALE MAGAZINE 143
“I’VE HAD LEUKEMIA THREE TIMES...I FOUND THE FOOD NETWORK AND ALL THE COOKING SHOWS, AND I FELL IN LOVE WITH FOOD.” — JAC K WITH ERSPOON
JACK WITHERSPOON
CHEF, LEUKEMIA SURVIVOR AND AUTHOR OF “TWIST IT UP” AGE: 16
Diagnosed with leukemia at age two, Jack Witherspoon has relapsed twice at age six and 11, and has even gone through a bone marrow transplant. However, Witherspoon has moved past the darkness by finding solace in cooking. With a cookbook, a visit to the “Tonight Show” with Jay Leno, and a charity that raised over $150,000 for pediatric leukemia research, Witherspoon has achieved so much by age 16.
Q: What inspired you to start cooking? Jack Witherspoon: I’ve had leukemia three times. It was during my first relapse when I was six, and I was in the hospital a lot. I found the Food Network and all the cooking shows, and I fell in love with food. I got my mom to write down recipes, and when I got home, I’d make some of them.
Children, where I was treated for my first two bouts of leukemia. It’s called the Jack Witherspoon Foundation. Proceeds from my book also go to that foundation. I was also Leukemia Lymphoma Society’s Boy of the Year in 2015. I’ve raised a lot of money for a lot of different charities, but they’re all for leukemia research.
Q: How did you stay positive during difficult times? JW: It really hit me when I was six because I had friends and school. All those things were just taken away when I was under treatment. The cooking was the bright light that kept me positive in the midst of everything. I really needed something to get my mind off everything that was going on, and cooking kept my mind off all that.
Q: What do you think is one of your biggest achievements in the culinary world? JW: My cookbook is one of my biggest achievements. It was a lot of hard work, and it was my first big project. I was 11 when it was published, and as it was going to print, I had a relapse with leukemia, so my book launch was postponed.
Q: What is the first dish you ever made? JW: I started off just helping my mom, but the first dish I really ever made was a five-cheese mac and cheese I saw on “Rachael Ray Tasty Travels.” The night after I got home, my mom and I made it. It was really cool, making something by myself and having people eat it and enjoy it. It’s a really good feeling. Q: Which recipe in “Twist it Up” is your favorite? JW: It’s 60 of my favorite recipes, so it’s kind of hard to choose, but I’ve got to say either my spaghetti carbonara—it’s easy, it’s fast and it’s really good— or my shepherd’s pie, which has a little bit of sentimental value because I made it on the “Tonight Show,” and I got to cook it with Jay Leno. Q: Tell me about your charity. When did it start and what have you done to raise money? JW: I have my own endowment at Miller’s
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Q: Which chefs inspire you the most? JW: I got to say Bobby Flay, Rachael Ray, all those Food Network chefs inspire me to keep cooking, but now, as I’m getting older, I’m watching more Gordon Ramsay; he really knows his stuff. Q: Do you have any advice for anyone who wants to learn how to cook? JW: You want to keep it simple in the beginning and work your way up. I started off helping, learning everything I could, and watching videos. Practice really makes perfect. Q: What do you have planned for the future? JW: I’m going to be making my own business. It’s going to be a cookie company called “Sconies.” It’s a cross between a cookie and a scone. We’re hoping to launch with three different varieties like vanilla bean, chocolate chip and lemon zest.
THE COOKING WAS THE BRIGHT LIGHT THAT KEPT ME POSITIVE IN THE MIDST OF EVERYTHING. I REALLY NEEDED SOMETHING TO GET MY MIND OFF EVERYTHING THAT WAS GOING ON, AND COOKING KEPT MY MIND OFF ALL THAT.”
PHOTOGRAPHED BY: DAMIEN NOBLE ANDREWS
— JAC K W I T H E R S P OO N
COOKING UP A STORM
Witherspoon says one of the most fulfilling things is inspiring kids in the hospital by doing cooking demos.
ACROSS THE BOARD
When he’s not cooking, Witherspoon likes to hang out with friends, skateboard, snowboard, and surf. Photoshoot Location: PRIMO ITALIA 24590 Hawthorne Blvd Torrance, CA 90505 310.378.4288 www.eatprimo.com LOCALE MAGAZINE 145
“FOR ME, I NOTICED HOW YOGA HELPED ME WITH SCHOOL AND RELAXATION. IT INSPIRED ME TO HELP OTHERS BECAUSE IT HELPED ME.” — JAYS E A D E VO E
JAYSEA DEVOE
YOUNGEST CERTIFIED SUP YOGA INSTRUCTOR, FOUNDER OF SEAVIBES AGE: 14
Jaysea Devoe has loved yoga from a young age—when other forms of sport didn’t work for her—and has found a sense of happiness within the practice. However, as relaxed as yoga makes her, merely practicing isn’t enough. Devoe is also a certified yoga instructor, and she is only 14 years old. Teaching at the Yoga Bergamot every Wednesday night, Devoe shows that her young age doesn’t matter because she is able to share the passion and relaxation that yoga brings her to her students.
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Q: How did you get into the yoga hype? Jaysea Devoe: I was about eight years old. I had been taking kids’ classes at a dance studio that offered yoga one or two times a week. I loved it. I tried all different sports, but none really worked, and yoga just stuck with me. I took the training when I was 12.
incense and music on. When the students show up and line up their mats, I welcome them and introduce myself to new students. I start off slowly with one pose for a few minutes to reflect on our bodies. We pick up the pace in the middle with sequences that build up, and at the end of class, I bring the sequences down to reflect.
Q: What inspired you to become a yoga instructor? JD: For me, I noticed how yoga helped me with school and relaxation. It inspired me to help others because it helped me.
Q: What advice do you have for people who want to try yoga? JD: I hear students say they can’t do yoga because they’re not flexible. Yoga is meant for working on flexibility. If you haven’t started yoga, go to a local studio and take a few classes. Go for a few days a week and build it up, and see if you notice any differences in your mind and body.
Q: How does doing yoga and helping others make you feel? JD: Yoga is such an important thing that everyone should practice. Being able to help others make their bodies healthy makes me happy. It empowers me to help others. Q: Walk us through a typical class when you’re instructing. JD: Normally, I go in and teach at Yoga Bergamot. I teach on Wednesdays, and I put
Q: What are some of your biggest achievements in the yoga field? JD: For me, it’s my clothing and jewelry line called SeaVibes. We have a little shop where I teach. It gets me into a new thing while incorporating yoga.
BEING ABLE TO HELP OTHERS MAKE THEIR BODIES HEALTHY MAKES ME HAPPY. IT EMPOWERS ME TO HELP OTHERS.” — JAYS E A D E VO E
WATER BABY
When Devoe isn’t doing yoga, she likes to surf and paddleboard.
WORLD TRAVELER
PHOTOGRAPHED BY: DAMIEN NOBLE ANDREWS
As an instructor, she wants to share her love for yoga around the world, and explore new cultures as she does so.
SEAVIBES YOGA www.seavibesyoga.com @seavibesyoga Photoshoot Location: PONTO BEACH TOWER 21 Carlsbad Blvd Encinitas, CA 92024 www.californiabeaches.com
PHOTOGRAPHED BY: DAMIEN NOBLE ANDREWS
“I’VE ALWAYS WANTED A SKATEBOARD I COULD FIT IN MY LOCKER AND BACKPACK, SO I DECIDED TO JUST START MAKING ONE.” —CARSON K RO P F L
CARSON KROPFL
CREATOR OF THE LOCKER BOARD SKATEBOARDS AGE: 11
Nothing can extinguish a child’s imagination, especially if he has an idea that he’s passionate about. In order to pay for his surf contests and lessons, he started the Locker Board—instead of doing chores. They are made with recycled skateboard decks, and when Vans learned of Kropfl’s ideas, he was set up with a monthly recycling program at two stores in So Cal where he is given donated skateboard decks to upcycle into Locker Boards. This year, Carson will be a mentor at the Independent Youth Teen Network, and he is also donating $1 for every Locker Board he sells to the Tony Hawk Foundation. 148 LOCALE MAGAZINE
Q: What is the Locker Board and how did you think of it? Carson Kropfl: Locker Boards are recycled skateboard decks that I’ve reshaped to fit inside backpacks and lockers. I put new tracks and wheels on them and sell them for $69. I’ve always wanted a skateboard I could fit in my locker and backpack, so I decided to just start making one. Q: Any notable people who have a Locker Board? CK: We sent out [a board to Barron Trump], and it’s in the White House, but we haven’t heard anything quite yet. Q: How many Locker Boards have you sold? CK: To date, I’ve sold 151. We’ve been selling them for three-and-a-half months. Q: Who was the first person to get their very own Locker Board, besides yourself? CK: It was Oct. 25th—I put the boards out
there on Oct. 29th—and two of my friends came over and bought one. Q: Do you have any other inventions you’ve done? CK: A while ago, we started a company called Streetubez. It’s like tarp surfing, and that’s when you get a big tarp, and then you set it down and take one corner and pull it. The wind takes you like a wave, and you skate through it. The tarp is a triangle and is made out of parachute material, and you skate on the streets. It’s super easy and fun to ride. We did a Kickstarter. We didn’t make it, but we’re going to start it up again. Q: Do you have any advice for kids who want to invent? CK: You just have to push through and work as hard as you can. Then you’ll have time to play. Work hard, shred hard!
WORK HARD, SHRED HARD!” — C A R S O N K RO P F L
THE GREAT OUTDOORS
When he’s not inventing, Kropfl enjoys playing with his friends, biking, skateboarding and surfing.
BIEBER FEVER
Kropfl says he’d think Justin Bieber—who skates a lot in Venice Beach—would enjoy his own Locker Board.
LOCKER BOARD SKATEBOARDS 949.554.4448 www.lockerboard.net Photoshoot Location: SAN CLEMENTE, CA
“[THE HIKE] TOOK ABOUT 22 HOURS. THAT WAS WITH NO SLEEP, JUST SOME ONE-MINUTE CATNAPS; THOSE ONLY FELT LIKE A SECOND.” —ANTHONY S LO S A R
ANTHONY SLOSAR
YOUNGEST PERSON TO CLIMB MT. WHITNEY AGE: 6
Whether one is an experienced hiker or just starting out, climbing a mountain at any stage of life is a long, difficult, and impressive feat. It’s even more impressive when you’re only six years old and have already climbed a mountain that is over 14,000 feet, and that is what Anthony Slosar did last August. Coming from a family of hikers, Slosar made history with his father, mother, brothers, and sisters. Even when his mother and siblings had to turn back halfway through the climb—because of altitude sickness—Slosar wasn’t about to give up. He continued on with the 22-hour journey and came back with a heightened sense of confidence and achievement. 150 LOCALE MAGAZINE
Q: What inspired you to climb Mt. Whitney? Anthony Slosar: My original reason was because my brother, Jackson, did it a couple of years ago, but I wasn’t allowed to. When I got to the top, I asked my dad if I could watch Captain America: Civil War, since I was already there. I only watched about 10 minutes of it, though. Q: How long did it take to complete the climb? AS: It took about 22 hours. That was with no sleep, just some one-minute catnaps; those only felt like a second. When you get to the top, the oxygen gets thin, and you’re already tired, so it was rough. The craziest part was when my mom turned around, she wanted me to go with her, but I didn’t want to quit!
Q: Did you ever feel like giving up? AS: There is a spot—a portal—at Mt. Whitney where some had to quit because we didn’t have any camping gear. Quitting wasn’t an option! When I finished the climb, I had no idea how much there would be left when I had to go back down. It was good for my self-esteem because it made me extra confident! My dad had a backpack, and if I wanted to stop, he was ready to cut holes in it so he could carry me, but I didn’t want that! When it turned dark, I couldn’t believe we were still going; I thought they were elves in the forest as we walked back, and I was scared, but I wouldn’t stop! Q: Do you have advice for anyone wanting to climb mountains? AS: Don’t quit!
THE CRAZIEST PART WAS WHEN MY MOM TURNED AROUND, SHE WANTED ME TO GO WITH HER, BUT I DIDN’T WANT TO QUIT!” — A N T H O N Y S LO S A R
PHOTOGRAPHED BY: DAMIEN NOBLE ANDREWS
FAMILY AND FOOTBALL
If Slosar could hike with anyone, he would hike with his mom, dad, siblings and Tom Brady!
THE GREAT OUTDOORS
Slosar also likes to play soccer, ride his bike, swim, fish, camp and play with his siblings.
Photoshoot Location: ARROYO TRAIL 17261 El Vuelo Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067
“MY DAD WAS A GOALIE, AND HE WANTED ME TO TRY IT, AND EVER SINCE THEN, I WAS IN LOVE AND JUST KEPT PLAYING.” — E L I NA L I N N E R
ELINA LINNER
GLOBAL HANDBALL PRODIGY AGE: 19
Handball—a sport that contains two teams that throw a ball from outside a goal zone, hoping to get the ball past the goalkeeper. Hailing from Sweden, Elina Linner has brought her love for the sport to the United States. With hopes of joining the US Olympic team, Linner puts everything she has in the game and credits her coach, Juliano de Oliveira, who is always there to support her as she makes her dreams come true.
Q: When did you fall in love with handball? Elina Linner: When I was eight years old, I started playing. My dad was a goalie, and he wanted me to try it, and ever since then, I was in love and just kept playing. Q: What do you do to shake any nerves before a big match? EL: I usually start talking to my dad to help me get motivated. I also put headphones in and listen to music to just forget about it. Q: Which handball players do you admire and look up to? EL: Elizabeth Hartnett who plays for the US National Team; she’s one of my closest friends. Q: What do you feel is your biggest achievement in handball?
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EL: That would probably be when I played in the national team in Auburn, and when I played in Brazil against other national teams. Q: What do you hope to do with handball? EL: For the USA Olympic team, beach handball will be in 2024, and I’m training for that. It has been one of my biggest dreams since I was little. I told my mom she’d one day see me play handball on TV. Q: What’s next for you and handball? EL: Next year is the Pan American Championship for beach handball. If my team places high enough, we will be in the World Championships. Then, we will try to qualify for the Olympics!
“IT HAS BEEN ONE OF MY BIGGEST DREAMS SINCE I WAS LITTLE. I TOLD MY MOM SHE’D ONE DAY SEE ME PLAY HANDBALL ON TV.”
PHOTOGRAPHED BY: JANE CHOUTEAU
—E LINA LINNE R
MULTIFACETED
Besides sports, Linner is also interested in real estate and has an internship.
SWEDISH LIFE
If she could play handball with anyone, Linner would play with a Swedish player named Isabelle Gullden. Photoshoot Location: RONALD REAGAN ELEMENTARY 79800 Liberty Dr Palm Desert, CA 92211
GO/DO
“
Live sound is really important to us, and to replicate the sound live, we needed four people and John was the obvious choice.” —Josh Bowman
LOCAL SOUND:
Wetwood Smokes Costa Mesa-Natives Wetwood Smokes Aim to Bring Local Sound to the Main Stage WRITTEN BY: CARLI CRITCHFIELD PHOTOGRAPHED BY: NATHAN WHELAN Wetwood Smokes is a local Orange County band with a ton of determination, inspiration, and talent. The band is composed of four: Josh Bowman (lead vocals and guitar), Chrystian Cano (backing vocals and bass), Steven Howard (lead guitar), and John Gee (drums), who began making music together in 2010. As John went to go to school, the band continued on as a trio. However, in January of last year, John came back to play drums as the others thought he was crucial to the type of music they were writing. “Live sound is really important to us, and to replicate the sound live, we needed four people and John was the obvious choice,” Josh says. Last month, the band opened for Save Ferris at the new House of Blues Anaheim that just reopened at the GardenWalk. Vista Kicks also performed. Previously, the group has opened for and played with Brobecks at Amplyfi in LA, The Stone Foxes at the Slidebar in Fullerton, and King Washington at the House of Blues. They describe their sound as indie rock but acknowledge how broad of a spectrum that can be. So, they unanimously agree they want to go for a commercially successful indie rock sound that’s a little bit more polished. Being from Orange County, the guys love playing at the Wayfarer in Costa Mesa. They love the crowd, and because it’s so close to home, they consider the venue a
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home base for music. Last year they had a residency at the venue, which they grew to love. However, their dreams are big and their ideal place to play a show is the Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Colorado. Right now the band is working on new material. They have five songs they want to start recording in the studio with John O’Brien, who helped them on their last two records. The new one will be the first record with all four members, and they are extremely excited about it. Steven says that they have been working on the new songs for about a year, and although it has taken a while, it has been the most satisfied he’s felt going into the studio. They have put in some serious work for this album. “There is always a sense of vulnerability when it comes to writing music or creating art of any kind with other people, whether it's a riff you want to add or a melody you're trying,” Chrystian says. “Sometimes, you'll throw out an idea that you're not even 35 percent sure isn't complete garbage. So, it's nice to have your best friends as collaborators who know what you're capable of and can push you towards a better result. But more importantly, [they’re] who can let you down ever so gently when your idea is actual garbage.” Keep an eye out for these guys this summer and their fourth EP. You can listen to their music on Spotify—Wetwood Smokes will not disappoint.
FAVORITE COVER Wetwood Smokes’ favorite song to cover is a mash up they came up with of the Pixies’ “Where is My Mind” and Marvin Gaye’s “Let’s Get it On.” It takes a second for the crowd to realize what they are playing, but they always get a good reaction.
WHAT’S IN A NAME? “We were just a couple of observant guys sitting around a campfire in desperate need of a band name when it started to rain,” Chrystian says.
WETWOOD SMOKES www.wetwoodsmokes.com Photoshoot Location: RECESS STUDIOS 3122 Halladay St Santa Ana, CA 92705
“IF I CAN HELP EVEN ONE CHILD, I AM ON MY WAY TO MAKING A DIFFERENCE.” —FESTER
BIKERS AGAINST CHILD ABUSE www.bacaworld.org Photoshoot Location: 16582 Brookhurst St Fountain Valley, CA 92708 156 LOCALE MAGAZINE
HUMANITARIAN FEATURE
Guardian
angels BIKERS AGAINST CHILD ABUSE AIM TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN CHILDREN’S LIVES
WRITTEN BY: NICOLE HAKIM PHOTOGRAPHED BY: BRADLEY BLACKBURN
It would be a dream come true if we could live in a world that is free of worries; a world where we all feel important and loved. Unfortunately, such a world does not exist, particularly for some children. These children are those that have been physically or mentally abused or abandoned. Thankfully, there are organizations that exist to combat child abuse to make children feel important and empowered. One such organization is Bikers Against Child Abuse (BACA), which is made up of volunteer bikers whose sole mission is to empower children to not feel afraid of the world in which they live. By empowering children, BACA seeks to break the chains of abuse.
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“THE SAYING ‘BIKERS DON’T CRY’ IS ABSOLUTELY FALSE BECAUSE I DEFINITELY HAVE HAD THOSE OVERWHELMING TIMES.” —FESTER
BACA was founded 22 years ago by JP Lilly, known in the biker community as “Chief.” He was a child play therapist when he started BACA as an idea to help an eight-year-old who was so frightened of his perpetrators that he would not leave his home. Chief grew up with bikers and used his existing relationship with the biker community to create an organization that sought to empower, at that time, the first BACA child. Within weeks, that child was able to play outside his home, ride his bike, and play with friends. What started as an idea was realized across the country by the dedicated and heartfelt love of bikers with a common mission. The BACA organization has numerous chapters across the country, and international chapters in many countries; including Germany, the United Kingdom, Italy, and more.
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STAND UP FOR WHAT’S RIGHT Ú April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, which makes for BACA’s busiest month packed with meetings and presentations to bring awareness to a necessary topic. BACA AROUND THE GLOBE Ú Bikers Against Child Abuse Chapters are in many countries • Austria • Australia • Canada • France • Germany • Iceland • Italy • Netherlands • New Zealand • Spain • Switzerland • United Kingdom
One of the founders of the Orange County chapter and current chapter president, “Fester” knows the need to help abused children by empowering them is real. “If I can help even one child, I am on my way to making a difference,” he says. “And what I love best about my chapter is that every member and supporter wants to make a difference.” BACA works with federal and state officials to help abused children. According to Fester, members must undergo a thorough background check before they can ride out to meet the abused child. A family with an abused child may contact BACA directly, or BACA may get a child abuse case referral from local child abuse protection and prevention agencies. Once the case is received, bikers ride out to meet the child. At this point, the child is given a road name, a vest with a BACA patch on the back, and brought into the BACA family. And lastly, each child is provided with two primary BACA contacts closest to their area to call in case he or she needs a protector. BACA is around as long as the child needs someone to make him or her feel safe. “Sometimes BACA members even attend court and parole hearings where an abused child will refuse to cooperate because the person who hurt him or her has 30 people sitting there,” Fester says. “That’s when we roll in with [a big crew] to make the child feel empowered to testify in front of his or her abuser.” In Orange County alone, there were approximately 48,000 reported
cases of child abuse in 2016. While there is no way to know how many cases of child abuse go unreported, national studies indicate that the actual statistic is significantly larger than what is reported. Working in BACA means seeing and interacting with frightened and small children, and though that can be difficult, BACA members and supporters are determined to ease children’s burdens, no matter what it takes. “Things often get emotional and the saying ‘bikers don’t cry’ is absolutely false because I definitely have had those overwhelming times,” Fester says. Ultimately, it’s the heartwarming moments that these visits create that keep Fester involved. “When you go and meet a scared child who is hiding behind the mom’s leg, and then within 10 minutes, they’re running around, jumping on the bikes, and high-fiving each other—it’s proof that BACA works,” Fester says.
FIRST TIMER’S GUIDE
THE COAST
IS CLEAR A WE E KE N D IN SANTA B ARB ARA, THE LOCAL WAY WRITTEN BY: ALANA ARONSON
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OFTENTIMES, WHEN WE ARE IN NEED OF A VACATION OR HAVE AN OVERWHELMING FEELING OF WANDERLUST, WE GET STUCK IN THE BELIEF THAT HOPPING ON A PLANE OR PLANNING A WEEK-LONG ROAD TRIP EIGHT HOURS IN ANY DIRECTION IS THE ANSWER.
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Saturday
A LOOK FROM THE TOP Bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, I was craving an opportunity to get out in the city and soak up the views—from the top. We drove from Isla Vista to Tunnel Road so we could hike Inspiration Point. Relatively short and totally doable for even a beginner, the trail took us through lush greenery and narrow dirt trails sure to amp the adrenaline rush. Once we reached the top, I was gifted with a view of almost the entire city and even the Channel Islands! I got my cardio in for the day, and was ready to descend and check out the local cuisine. Friday Evening
THE DRIVE UP Kerouac can praise Big Sur all he wants, but the drive through the central coast felt unmatched by any other. An hour away from my destination, I caught a glimpse of the coastline. Each mile I drove seemed to take me closer to the shore, the beaches and piers looking like a paradise within themselves. Coming in just after sunset, I passed the main Santa Barbara exits, drove a few miles out of town and exitted, excited as I pulled down the private drive and into the courtyard of the Bacara Resort. This was exactly what we needed.
DINE AND BUY: On Milpas Street stands Los Agaves restaurant, with the most amazing enchiladas I’ve ever had—the Agaves Enchiladas. Fresh shrimp and halibut were stuffed into tortillas alongside peppers and onions. A creamy chipotle sauce, with just enough kick, coated the dish and left me perfectly content after our morning excursion. With full hearts—and stomachs—it was time to shop. Our first stop: Whiskey + Leather on Coast Village Road. Owned by two Santa Barbara local ladies, this store was the ideal mix of both delicate and functional pieces. I found a perfect shirt for the night’s festivities and was off to the next destination! What is a weekend without the perfect playlist? We popped on over to Warbler Records on De La Guerra Street where I picked out a vintage record to set the weekend’s anthem to: Sonic Youth’s “Daydream Nation.” Now I was definitely ready to “jump into the day…”
LOS AGAVES MILPAS www.los-agaves.com | WHISKEY + LEATHER www.whiskeyleather.com WARBLER RECORDS & GOODS www.warblerrecords.com
Just around three hours north of Orange County, though, is Santa Barbara—a city teeming with eclectic storefronts, restaurants, and bars. The people are vibrant and adventurous, the beaches pristine. Santa Barbara is the perfect destination for a weekend away. For those who haven’t had the chance to explore and experience the coastal community, this guide is just for you. From restaurants that build their menus around local flavors and flora, to breathtaking views of the central coast, local is the theme of this SB guide. For those who have frequented the beach city before, this guide might just offer you a new destination, or two, you never knew existed.
GETTING FUNKY
THE LARK SANTA BARBARA www.thelarksb.com | MCCONNELL’S FINE ICE CREAMS www.mcconnells.com M.SPECIAL BREWING COMPANY mspecialbrewco.com | WILDCAT LOUNGE www.wildcatlounge.com
For dinner, we went to The Lark on Anacapa Street, right in the Funk Zone—Santa Barbara’s art and boutique destination district. The décor was captivating; repurposed and vintage pieces added charm and history to the already stunning building. Moving through the restaurant, I saw communal seating, a relaxed outdoor dining area, intimate tables for two and incredibly knowledgable and eager staff. The menu at The Lark is local, seasonal and served family style. That’s right—shared plate dining! We started with their Southern Pimento Cheese snack. Provolone, smoked gouda and serrano chillies perfectly pickled, were served in a mason jar, and accompanied with beautifully grilled bread. Next came their Marinated & Grilled Hanger Steak. The dish was a work of art—served on a rustic wooden platter and scattered with dark green charred broccoli and a medium rare short rib that paired too perfectly with their handcrafted citrus and jalapeño JP’s Paloma cocktail.
It’s In the Bag A Traveler’s Musts for a Weekend Away Ú A fabulous weekender bag by Clare V. Ú Bathing Suit Ú Little Black Dress (or a dapper suit for the gents) Ú An adventurous attitude! Take a Hike 5 Can’t Miss Hikes With Views to Wonder Over Ú Gaviota Wind Caves Ú Knapp’s Castle Ú Hot Springs Ú 7 Falls Ú Cathedral Peak Life’s a Beach 5 of the Best Beaches in and Near Santa Barbara Ú Butterfly Beach Ú East Beach Ú Leadbetter Beach Ú Carpinteria State Beach Ú Summerland Beach
WILD NIGHT OUT SWEETS AND SIPS Feeling content after dinner at The Lark, my friend and I headed to Santa Barbara’s legendary McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams on State Street so I could find out what all of the hype was about. Let me tell you, the taste definitely matched the talk. My eyes were much larger than my stomach at this point, but I opted for a berry-licious ice cream sandwich, which was tart and sweet in all the right places—blueberries and cream ice cream and a peanut butter cookie, to be exact. Energized from the sugar rush, we headed over to M.Special Brewing Company. This brewery has enlisted its very own inhouse brewmaster to concoct sinfully delicious beers, who happens to be a Santa Barbara local. Considering I’m a lover of all things local, I felt it was only right to experience the libations of a Central Coast native during my trip. I ordered up a hoppy Double IPA, M.Special’s Lazy Eye Special, and enjoyed the buzz of the (un)surprisingly flavorful brew.
Relishing in the spirited sips of M.Special, I felt it was an appropriate time to hit the dance floor. Wildcat Lounge on Ortega Street called me inside with its hypnotic and musical purrs that seemed to flood all of Santa Barbara. Former SB local, Katy Perry, even sings about this place in her song “This Is How We Do”—so you KNOW you’re in for a night to remember. Walls lined with red leather upholstery and disco lights carried me away until closing time.
Sunday
We arrived back at the resort just in time to make s'mores around their grand outdoor fireplace with all of the fixings supplied by the hotel. My friends and I enjoyed a glass of wine at the bar of their onsite steakhouse Angel Oak and then turned in to enjoy our luxurious suite and comfy bed.
Feeling the joyful aches of the Saturday Night Fever that overcame me just hours prior, I knew I was in need of some fresh roast to jumpstart my last day in Santa Barbara. Per the suggestion of my dear friend, we headed to Handlebar Coffee Roasters, another business run by locals!
Waking up to the sounds of waves crashing might sound pleasant but the thing we appreciated most was the absence of sound. The Bacara Resort stands alone like a massive private residence taking up 78-bluff top acres above Gaviota Beach. The view from both our room and the pool was mesmerizing. Long off breaking waves and a postcard-worthy pool framed by palm trees created the postcard-worthy landscape to the entire stay.
After my morning jolt, it was time to fuel up for the ride home—with brunch, of course. Scarlett Begonia has a menu as inspired as the guests who frequent, especially since this spot utilizes organic and sustainable ingredients in its dishes. The menu at Scarlett Begonia changes weekly—always ensuring that its patrons will experience unique and innovative dishes. I ordered their Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, which came served with their homemade syrup and a fresh out of the garden tasting berry compote. With a full heart, I was ready to hit the road. My action-packed, indulgent weekend in Santa Barbara was more than memorable, and I can’t wait to head back up again for another chance to experience the central coast.
PICTURESQUE VIEWS
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RISE & GRIND
BACARA RESORT 8301 Hollister Ave Goleta, CA 93117 844.276.0955 www.meritagecollection.com/bacararesort
HANDLEBAR COFFEE ROASTERS www.handlebarcoffee.com | SCARLETT BEGONIA www.scarlettbegonia.net
Saturday Night / Sunday Morning
PHOTO BY: Brianna Moss
HOME
///AWAY
APRIL 2017
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ROCKABYE MOMMY Stephanie Avila Has You Covered to Design Your Child’s Room
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ESCAPE: SOUTH AFRICA How to Explore South Africa in Luxury
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PENDRY SAN DIEGO A Getaway to San Diego’s New Pendry Hotel
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SETTING THE TABLE Enjoy the Happiest Hour at Puesto Irvine
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SU CASA This Record-Setting $55 Million Estate is Calling Your Name
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PUESTO 8577 Irvine Center Dr Irvine, CA 92618 949.608.9990 www.eatpuesto.com
SETTING THE TABLE Let’s Give Them Something to Taco Bout Puesto Offers a Fiesta Every Day with Vibrant Mexican Dishes
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HOME/AWAY
ROCKABYE MOMMY www.rockabyemommy.com Photoshoot Location: Anaheim, CA
CHILD’S PLAY Stephanie Avila Thoughtfully Designs for the Ultimate Kid’s Room WRITTEN BY: ASHLEY RUIZ PHOTOGRAPHED BY: MATHEW MARTINEZ
With over 10 years of interior design experience under her belt, Stephanie Avila is a master at her craft. So when her classmate approached her with the idea of starting a business specializing in nursery design in 2012, she jumped on the opportunity. Five years later, the co-founder and owner of Rockabye Mommy, continues to sweep in and lull expectant mothers’ nursery design worries to sleep, approaching projects with a style that is completely her own by focusing her nursery and playroom designs on adults, rather than children. She shops at the same places she would for her own house, a master bedroom, or even, a living room. “Nothing is juvenile-specific; it’s all going to be more sophisticated. It’s going to have a timeless feel; it’s going to allow the furniture to grow with the child and the room,” Stephanie said. “Really for me, it’s functionality, it’s safety and then it’s design.” Her elegant layouts combine high fashion with functionality in a whimsical world where posh meets practical as she focuses on pieces that can be moved from one room to another, without having to spend extra money and buy more. She banishes the thought of changing tables—unless it’s something the clients already purchased—and offers up a different perspective. Why not try
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a nice, full-size dresser and add a changing table topper to it? That way, when diapers become a thing of the past, the dresser won’t have to. Another factor that sets Rockabye Mommy apart is Stephanie’s ability to customize each project by getting to know the clients. For her, personalization is key, because homes reflect the families that live in them. So, when a client shared a prayer that her son made up and said every night, Stephanie turned it into a timeless keepsake. She printed out the mantra in different fonts and presented it to the client, who was thrilled. “I like taking the stress off of a mom of having to find these pieces and come up with a design because it comes easy to me and it’s fun for me to come up with something new every time. I really have a good time doing it,” Stephanie said. “Each client is unique. Unique in what they can do, unique in their needs, and unique in what they think they want for the space.” She immerses herself in clients’ likes, dislikes, and inspiration while contributing her own suggestions. Her goal for every project is for it to be different. So, don’t worry if Stephanie can’t provide the custom children’s book chandelier or red telephone booth found in one of her playrooms, she’ll find something just as unique for you.
NATIVE KNOWLEDGE: Stephanie designed two larger-thanlife nurseries for members of a wellknown boyband. #YoullWantItThatWay
NAC HELICOPTERS E Pier Rd, V & A Waterfront Cape Town, 8001 South Africa www.nachelicopterscapetown.com
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into the
WILD
EXPERIENCE A LUXURIOUS ADVENTURE TO SOUTH AFRICA WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY: BRIANNA ROMANO
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THE VINEYARD HOTEL Colinton Rd Newlands, Cape Town 7700 South Africa www.vineyard.co.za
I was both excited and nervous to be traveling as just two girls in a foreign country not particularly known for its safety, but I was confident once I got there that my fears would ease. I have always been the first one to say yes to any adventure, but a sense of anxiety rushed over me as I walked through the sliding glass doors into the airport. People asked, “WHY SOUTH AFRICA?” so many times I lost count, I don’t think many people seemed to know that you could have a luxury girls getaway there, little did we know we were about to blow everyone’s minds, and our own. My friend Andrea and I met when she was an exchange student from Maryland at my high school. We both got kicked out of class for not doing our homework and had to sit outside—we've been friends ever since. I spent the next month or so driving her around Southern California trying to give her every experience I could possibly give her. We would see each other every few years, but this time, instead of visiting each other in Orange County or New York, I suggested we pull out our bucket lists. South Africa was on both of ours, so we booked a flight that week. We arrived in Cape Town after a fivehour flight to meet Andrea in New York, a five-hour layover, a 15-hour flight to Johannesburg that ended in us giving some “good samaritan” $20 for helping us find our next terminal (Lesson #1Bring smaller bills for tipping or don’t let anyone help you in the airport unless you want to pay for it.) and a two-hour flight to Cape Town. Luckily, we slept for the majority of the flight, so arriving at 1 p.m. was an easy transition with no jet lag. We picked up our rental car and blasted “Circle of Life” from the Lion King with no shame, as I began learning to drive on the left side of the road and the right side of the car. 174 LOCALE MAGAZINE
cape town
T H E VI N E YA R D H O TEL
A short 20-minute drive later, we arrived at The Vineyard Hotel, a seven-acre riverside garden estate on the eastern slopes of Table Mountain about 15 minutes outside of the city. We checked in and made our way into our suite, where we plopped our bags down in the living room and booked it straight for the patio with the most awe striking view of Table Mountain overlooking their lush garden. We quickly decided we needed to explore and followed the pathway through the gardens back to the pool where we spent the rest of the day laying out and drinking cosmos and mojitos.You could literally just
spend your entire trip at The Vineyard Hotel enjoying their amazing dining options, amenities, and property. During our stay, we took advantage of their fully stocked gym. With floor to ceiling windows looking out at Table Mountain, running on a treadmill isn’t so bad. I have never been as enthusiastic about making sure we did not miss breakfast as I was here, we started every morning with their complimentary continental breakfast at The Square Restaurant, and ended almost every night at the Garden Lounge chatting up with locals and fellow travelers.
4 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT THE VINEYARD HOTEL ¢ A tortoise lives on site. We found this out after running into him in the garden. ¢ Their riverside garden overlooking Table Mountain is so beautiful and peaceful, you will want to walk around the property every day. ¢ They have five options for food and drink on the property. We tried and loved them all, including room service, but especially loved the hospitality at the Garden Lounge (Say ‘hi’ to our favorite bartender, Boyce!) and Myoga, an independently owned Japanese-inspired restaurant. ¢ Amenities include an indoor and outdoor pool, health and fitness center, and Angsana Spa.
EXPLORING CAPE TOWN STREETS ¢ Bree Street - hipster trendy restaurants, bars, and cafes ¢ Kloof Rd. - fashion boutiques, art galleries, interior design shops, and restaurants ¢ Long Street - best known for nightlife
NAC HELICOPTERS We booked a helicopter tour with NAC Helicopters, who are a well-known spot for offering a variety of chartered and private helicopter rides in Cape Town. They are right near the V & A Waterfront, an iconic landmark in Cape Town where there are a number of shops and restaurants. We spent the day wandering around The Watershed, an indoor market on the waterfront, then arrived to pre-flight champagne before we hopped in the helicopter for a 15-minute private tour. Cape Town is one of the coolest cities to see from above. If you can take a helicopter tour anywhere in the world, this would be at the top of my list.
TABLE MOUNTAIN
#VIEWS We took The Hopper Tour which included views of: ¢ City Bowl ¢ Sea Point ¢ Camps Bay ¢ Green Point ¢ Clifton ¢ Twelve Apostles
NAC HELICOPTERS E Pier Rd, V & A Waterfront Cape Town, 8001 South Africa www.nachelicopterscapetown.com
CABLEWAY WONDERS OF THE WORLD The Table Mountain Cableway is one of three rotating trams in the world—the others are in Switzerland and in Palm Springs!
TOUR THE TOWNSHIP ¢ We took a tour of the township with a friend. There are many tours available to visit the townships, you do not want to go without a guide as it can be a little dangerous, but the locals are extremely friendly and are excited to have visitors. We had lunch at a Braai where we had Sheep’s Rib and a Castle, a well known South African beer for lunch.
GO WITH UBER ¢ Having a car in Cape Town was one of the best things we could have done. We felt completely safe driving around during the day, but at night it is dangerous to drive, so you can Uber everywhere once it gets dark, which is the safest option.
Our next adventure was Table Mountain. It’s possible to hike up the mountain, but we took a cable car up to the top, where we prepared to rappel down the mountain with Abseil Africa. The instructors put us in harnesses and gave us a brief tutorial on how to run the ropes and descend safely. If you are afraid of heights like me, you’re going to have to be ready to conquer your fears. As I made my way to the edge of the rock to begin rappelling down, I refused to look backwards for fear that I would not go through with it. Two people can descend at a time, while two instructors lead from the top and one from the bottom. As we stepped off the top of the mountain at 3,558 ft. above sea level, adrenaline pumped through us for the three minute descent. We were glad we filmed the entire thing because we felt, after watching the footage, we may have blacked out during the adventure.
BO KAAP ¢ Bo Kaap, a Muslim neighborhood of brightly painted houses, is home to Cape Town’s first mosque, and is one of the most photographed parts of Cape Town.
DO SOMETHING WITH A LOCAL! ¢ A friend of mine in the states made the connection with a local in Cape Town. Ryan, or ‘Menno’ as everyone calls him, had us meet him at a local bar that was attached to a hostel called Yours Truly, where locals and fellow travelers congregate. This became our favorite place for late night pizza and beer. The next night, he made us dinner with three of his roommates at their house and we taught them how to play Heads Up!
ABSEIL AFRICA 297 Long St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa www.abseilafrica.co.za LOCALE MAGAZINE 175
stellenbosch
The next day we made our way an hour outside of Cape Town to STELLENBOSCH, a small university town in South Africa’s Western Cape province, surrounded by the vineyards of the Cape Winelands. It’s the kind of place where the city has it’s own free Wi-Fi network.
CLOS MALVERNE On our second day in Stellenbosch, we woke up to the best weather we had the entire time we were in South Africa. It was a perfect day to do some wine tasting. We hopped in our shuttle and made our way to Clos Malverne, a family-owned wine estate about four miles from the center of Stellenbosch in The Devon Valley. We arrived to a warm welcome from Clos Malverne’s Communications Manager Erich Zeelie, who took us on a tour of the wine farm and taught us a little bit about the winemaking process and the history of the wine farm. We walked out into the 66-acre vineyard that lays in a valley where the early morning mist keeps the grapes cool in the summer and the slopes of the valley allow for the perfect amount of sunlight, creating ideal conditions for the grapes to ripen.
OUD E WERF H O TEL 4 THINGS WE LOVE ABOUT OUDE WERF HOTEL: On-Call Spa Services ¢ In-room spa services are available, you just need to book 24 hours in advance. We both got massages and opted to have them outside on our patio.
Oude Werf is an intimate 58-room hotel blending contemporary comfort and periodinspired ambiance. It is the perfect place to stay because it is right in the middle of the town and walking distance from the main street in Stellenbosch lined with cafes, artisan shops, and of course wine bars. We stayed in one of their Luxury Suites, which had its own private lawn with chairs to lay out on in the sun overlooking their courtyard and pool. We spent our first day sunbathing on our patio sipping on rosé and snacking on a fruit plate.
Friendly Staff ¢ After a long day out, the manager sent us up a bottle of champagne to end the day. I also thought I lost my jacket at one point and he even went to my car for me to look for it. They also booked our shuttle service and made reservations at a local restaurant for us. Their customer service is unparalleled. Pool & Lounging Patio ¢ Seriously! We loved that patio. Central to the City ¢ You are walking distance from pretty much everything. 176 LOCALE MAGAZINE
ICE CREAM & WINE TASTINGS ¢ This was the first wine estate in Stellenbosch to offer a unique tasting experience in the form of an ice cream & wine pairing. It has since become one of their signature pairings with seasonal, hand-made delicacies.
STAY & PLAY ¢ Clos Malverne has three luxurious guest rooms; two family cottages and a private pool as well as an onsite Spa.
OUDE WERF HOTEL 30 Church St Stellenbosch, 7600 South Africa www.oudewerfhotel.co.za
As the wine business begins to become more industrialized, Clos Malverne keeps it old school, which is part of their charm. They are one the few wineries left in the world that uses a basket press, which is the oldest method of pressing grapes. The winery also uses the method of open fermentation in a cement tank (called a ‘kuip’), where the grapes are crushed, and their grape skin caps are pushed down by hand. They can crush 400 tons of grapes and yield up to 350 tons a year, where the wine is then stored in French and American oak casks to mature. Sustainability is an important focus of the winemaking industry in South Africa. There is even a labeling system that ensures that the wine you are buying has met their standards for sustainability, called “Integrity & Sustainability Certification.” Clos Malverne complies with this system and also does their part growing many of their own organic vegetable and herbs without pesticides and herbicides. All the organic waste from the restaurant is used as compost for the garden, reducing their carbon footprint and creating more employment opportunities. The staff is also able to take home any vegetables that have been picked and left over for the day. The view from the dining terrace is unbeatable. The patio completely opens up and overlooks the vineyard on a backdrop of miles of rolling hills and mountains in the distance. We sat down for a fourcourse meal and wine pairing that was the best we had on our entire trip—which was no surprise, seeing as Executive Chef Nadia Louw Smith hides away with a bottle of Ellie somewhere on the property seasonally to come up with an amazing and innovative new menu. Her menus have inspired a kind of cult following, where people come back seasonally to get their fix.
CLOS MALVERNE Devon Valley Rd Stellenbosch, 7600 South Africa www.closmalverne.co.za
R O ADT RIPPIN G the cape penninsula
Feeling refreshed after a relaxing two days, we headed back to Cape Town where we met up with Emile Kotze, owner of African Travel Kid, who was about to take us on a day long road trip. We knew Emile from the Bravo show “Below Deck,” and had heard that he started a travel company that was focused on giving you a more personalized experience, rather than some big tour group, so we were excited when he agreed to take us on a roadtrip for the day. We gave him an idea of what was on our list of things to see and he took the lead from there. We became quick friends as he is extremely personable and a fun person to travel with. Our favorites were driving through Chapman’s Peak, a wellknown drive that's reminiscent of driving PCH in Northern California, Boulder’s Beach, a sheltered cove known for its African penguins, and we ended our day with some seafood at Kalky's Fish & Chips in Kalk Bay, a well known local spot for a huge plate of seafood.
INSTAGRAM WORTHY: ¢ Hout Bay ¢ Chapman’s Peak Cape Point ¢ Boulders Beach ¢ Simon’s Town ¢ Kalk Bay ¢ St. James Beach ¢ Muizenberg Beach ¢ Simons Town
Q&A WITH
EMILE KOTZE OF BRAVO’S “BELOW DECK” & DREAM CREATOR AT AFRICAN TRAVEL KID Q: What inspired you to start a travel company and what is your vision behind it? Emile Kotze: I left South Africa. I traveled, worked on Yachts and then was approached to be part of a TV show called “Below Deck.” I suddenly got a burst of followers on social media, especially on Instagram, where I posted photos of my travel adventures followed with the hashtag #africantravelkid as my signature. I received DMs where I was frequently asked how I had so much fun. I really do love being outdoors and having adventures in nature, it recharges me. On a trip to the wild Coast of South Africa, I was walking on a deserted beach where I had a euphoric moment where I realized I should show people how to have fun, awesome adventures and do it for a living as it is a passion of mine. I wanted to show Americans that they can come to explore Africa in an easy way with me. I have done it on yachts and I have studied business. It was destined to be. My vision is to show people from all over the beauty of the outdoors, to show them how much energy and positivity it generates, show them how beautiful life is, and that the spirit of the African child is within all of us. Q: What is your favorite trip out of the trips you offer? EK: Well, each trip I offer out of the five
different trips is unique in their own way. I offer half day trips, full day trips, three-day trips, week trips, and two-week trips. All the trips are bespoke and customizable. I use my experience I have gained from the yachting industry to meet the needs of all guests on the trip. If I have to choose one, I must say the two-week trip from Cape Town up to the Garden Route must be my utmost favorite. Q: If you could take anyone to one place in all of South Africa where would it be? EK: That would be the whole of South Africa! [laughs] But, a place to see before you die has to be Storms River Mouth; it is magical. Q: What do you see as the biggest difference between your experience in America versus South Africa? EK: America is way more humanized and developed all over, whereas South Africa has some room to go, and as a result, it is more wild west in South Africa; there are a lot of natural spots to explore. Q: Which would you choose plane, train, or automobile? EK: Depends on the situation. I don’t mind, but overall, the good old automobile, as it is, very convenient.
AFRICAN TRAVEL KID Emile Kotze | @emile_kotze | www.AfricanTravelKid.com
SHARK DIVING IN GANSBAAI The next morning we left at 4 a.m. to go shark diving in Gansbaai. We stepped outside and it was raining. We were a little worried because the trip we had originally booked got postponed because of weather, and we were about to drive two hours for something that could have been canceled, but that’s what an adventure is about, right? I drove two hours in the rain, on pitch black mountain roads. To this day I am not sure if it was dumb or brave but I’m alive to tell the story. After a brief safety overview, we set out to sea on ‘White Shark’, a 12-meter long sea-cabin cruiser that has been custom built to the specifications required and is the most recent boat built in the shark cage diving industry. After a 15-minute boat ride, we arrived at ‘Shark Alley,’ a channel of ocean so frequented by great white sharks it received this nickname. Andrea and I immediately got sea sick once the anchor dropped. The crew began to set up the cage and throw out a large frozen fish head on a line to attract the sharks, and we waited.
cape town
MA NNABAY THINGS WE LOVE ABOUT MANNABAY Food & Drink ¢ Local beverages and house wines are complimentary for guests. The complimentary breakfast includes a small buffet and a choice of hot breakfasts to order. Afternoon high tea includes a variety of decadent sweet and savoury treats, a glass of Graham Beck rosé, Methodé Cap Classique, tea, coffee, and juices.
Transportation ¢ Complimentary airport transfer, and oncall chauffeur to dinner, GPS navigation devices for guests to use in their rental vehicles, free parking in their gated lot, and you’re given a gate remote for easy access. Facilities & Extras ¢ Swimming pool, laundry, gym with a steam room, Wi-Fi, media center with flat-screen tv and full entertainment center in each room with a variety of satellite channels and an extensive selection of movies and music available, rooftop bar area, and fire pit. 178 LOCALE MAGAZINE
We came back to Cape Town and checked into our next hotel tucked away in a residential neighborhood on the other side of Table Mountain. MannaBay is a luxury boutique hotel with only eight rooms and sleeps only 16 guests to create a more exclusive and intimate setting. You could potentially rent out the entire hotel for a private function, and they do so frequently. The eclectic design, contemporary art, and a panoramic view of the entire city are just the beginning of why this is an ideal place to stay in Cape Town. Each room has its own theme, as well as extra-length king size beds that can be made into twins. They have over 3,000 books in the rooms and in their floor-to-ceiling bookshelves in the lounge. As you walk up the marble staircase with floor-to-ceiling windows, you are surrounded by art. MannaBay is focused on celebrating
South African artists, and uses their walls to showcase the creations of the country’s well established artists, giving each area of the hotel it’s eclectic feel. The thing that really puts Mannabay over the top is that the staff is extremely attentive and friendly. They have a 24-hour butler service, and really go out of their way to make you feel at home, which I think is important when you are staying in such a small space. They put a high priority on personalizing your stay there. We had missed high tea on the day of our arrival, but they went out of the way to put together an entire spread for us to snack on while we lounged in one of the common areas. We had also told the staff that we would be leaving at 4a.m. to go shark diving, as we walked down the stairs they had a bag of snacks and juice ready to take on our drive. It’s the little things.
MANNABAY 8 Bridle Rd, Oranjezicht, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa www.mannabay.com
FAVORITE NIGHT ¢ We spent one night in playing scrabble with a bottle of wine in our room.
NATIVE KNOWLEDGE ¢ White Shark Diving Co. runs an internship program for biology students and shark enthusiasts who are interested in getting involved in some shark conservation and research. www.sharkcagediving. co.za/volunteerprogramme
We didn’t have to wait very long before two sharks arrived. The great white shark is a surface feeder, so you don’t need to be very far down to see them. You only need the provided wetsuit and snorkeling , and no dive gear is required. The crew stands above the cage as you bob up and down, as they shout to dunk back down and slide your feet under a bar to keep you down. They even have a videographer there to capture the whole experience for you. The water is very cold, but is easily ignored with all the excitement around. There is some controversy with the ethics of shark cage diving, but Gansbaai is known for their strong conservation principles, and White Shark Diving Co. is a founding member of the Great White Protection Foundation and has been a leading voice in the call for operators to collaborate in protecting the dwindling number of sharks and other marine species off the South African coastline. T IP ¢ You can have a car service drive you or have the diving company set up transportation. If you choose to drive, make sure you know the local emergency numbers in case you get a flat tire or something goes wrong.
WHITE SHARK DIVING CO. 9 Kusfront, Van Dyks Bay, 7220, South Africa www.sharkcagediving.co.za
S AFARI in kruger national park
Kruger National Park is one of the most popular places to visit in South Africa.
We flew from Cape Town back to Johannesburg to Skukuza to get to Kruger National Park. The flight from Johannesburg to Skukuza is only an hour on a very small passenger plane. We were picked up from the airport and drove about 40 minutes to Rhino Post Safari Lodge, a luxury safari lodge with eight suites inside Kruger National Park. Each suite is built out of stone, wood, and thatch, has an outdoor shower, bed with mosquito nets, and has a large private patio looking over the Mutlumuvi Riverbed. All accommodations, game drives, food, and drink, except for alcohol, are included. Each day we woke up at 6 a.m., and went for a morning game drive. We spent the afternoons drinking wine on the patio watching animals crossing into our camp. A family of elephants walked through our camp to drink from a watering hole that sits in front of the viewing deck and a leopard crossed through at night. In the late
There are only about 450-500 wild dogs in the entire park, which is about 7,523 square miles.
afternoon we would head out on another game drive, and would stop at sunset to get out of the truck for some wine and snacks. We would continue the drive into the dark, then head back for dinner with everyone staying at the camp. I would say to anyone, if a safari is not on your bucket list, that needs to change right now. It is such an amazing adrenaline pumping experience. When our guide Joey found out there were Wild Dogs near us while talking to another guide through a radio, he basically floored it to get over to them. One night we were driving down a road back to our camp when a rhino and her baby were crossing the road. We had scared her and she began charging at us. Joey quickly whipped the truck into reverse and yelled at her to stop. She stopped then tried a second time before finally letting us pass.
*Our game driver, Joey, told us that we must be good luck charms because every time we took a drive, we would see the Big 5 which includes the lion, African elephant, Cape buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros. The phrase itself was coined by African hunters and refers to the five most difficult and dangerous animals to hunt on foot.
RHINO POST SAFARI LODGE Kruger National Park, South Africa www.rhinopost.co.za
HOME/AWAY
PENDRY SAN DIEGO 550 J St San Diego, CA 92101 619.738.7000 www.pendryhotels.com/san-diego
THE NEW LUXURY
Book a Memorable Night at Pendry San Diego the Next Time You’re in Town
San Diego’s famous Gaslamp Quarter embraced the grand opening of the first ever Pendry Hotel in February. Pendry San Diego, located on 5th and J Street, is the debut hotel of the new Pendry brand by Montage International in partnership with The Robert Green Development Company. The plush hotel sits 12 stories high, features six unique food and beverage concepts, a luxurious spa, a grand ballroom, a nightclub, rooftop pool, 35,000 square feet of meeting and special event space, parlor and salon rooms, and many other stylish amenities. You'll find some of the best views of the historic Gaslamp Quarter, Petco Park, and the downtown skyline here. Perfectly posh, enter The Pendry to a beautiful array of luxury, modern and contemporary décor and design. One of the first things you'll notice are the drop-dead-gorgeous chandeliers of gold and glass perched above the inner communal dining and marketplace Provisional Kitchen, Café & Mercantile. It is here where you'll find an espresso bar, decadent desserts, gourmet eats by Executive Chef Chris Osbourne and a retail shop set inside an indoor greenhouse. The modern look continues into one of Pendry’s 317 rooms or one of the impressive 36 suites. The bathrooms mix vintage woods, marble, and feature stunning oversized luxury rain showers with two walls of glass, just in case you want to check out the magnificent downtown views while you are bathing.
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WRITTEN BY: S. ALICEN REYNOLDS
Although the rooms at The Pendry are perfection, you won't stay in them too long. There's so much to do within the hotel itself that you will surely want to explore it all. Begin the day at The Pool House, a rooftop pool and lounge area on the third floor, perfect for brunch and poolside cocktails while soaking up the sun and California lifestyle. An afternoon massage or meditation session at Spa Pendry should be high atop your afternoon things-to-do list before heading to dinner at the exquisite Lionfish, located on the hotel’s main floor. On Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays plan on late-night music and VIP service at Oxford Social Club, Pendry’s underground (literally!) nightlife space. It is the place to see and be seen. Oxford is quite intimate and relaxed with plush decorative furnishings resembling that of a private residence. A massive chandelier awaits as you enter, a large bar hosts a curated cocktail program and celebrity sightings are what you are in for at Oxford Social Club, San Diego's newest hot spot. There isn't a spot inside Pendry that isn't oozing in the "little details." Everything is done top shelf, classy and chic. Congratulations on a spectacular debut, Pendry; you have done it right and done it very, very well.
LET’S GIVE THEM SOMETHING TO
TACO BOUT PUESTO OFFERS A FIESTA EVERY DAY WITH VIBRANT MEXICAN DISHES
WRITTEN BY: ELAINE MORGAN CUTTING PHOTOGRAPHED BY: BRIANNA MOSS PROP STYLIST: CARMELLE PIÑA, PUESTO
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“AT PUESTO WE STRIVE TO HAVE A PARTY ATMOSPHERE. OUR WALLS ARE NEON COLORED, AND AT NIGHT WE’VE GOT LOUD MUSIC—IT’S A BEAUTIFUL RESTAURANT.” —EXECUTIVE CHEF KATY SMITH
PUESTO 8577 Irvine Center Dr Irvine, CA 92618 949.608.9990 www.eatpuesto.com LOCALE MAGAZINE 183
MENU
Ò Esquite
Ò Coctel Campechana
Ò Taquitos
Ò Queso Fundito Verde
Ò Taco Trio: Zucchini & Cactus, Tamarindo Shrimp, Chicken Al Pastor Ò Puesto Perfect Guacamole
Ò Mezcal Pickled Watermelon
Ò Taco Trio: Cochinita Pibil, Baja Fish, Mushroom Ò Mexican Street Bowl
C O C K TA I L S
Ò Mango Margarita Ò El Mezcalito Ò La Rosita
Walking into Puesto is like entering an urban jungle. The design, modeled after architecture found in Mexico City, is bold and colorful just like the fare Puesto serves. Puesto specializes in authentic and colorful Mexican cuisine, and is most popular for their vivacious array of tacos. Located in south Irvine, this newest branch of Puesto offers guests a fun environment amidst great food, a full bar, and colorful artwork to keep the fiesta alive! In Spanish, Puesto means post or stand. At Puesto, the restaurant, it means a place where friends and family gather for a good time and great Mexican food. The name may also be familiar to those restaurant goers in San Diego, as the restaurant has its original and wildly popular locations there. The opening of this new location at the beginning of the year is the response to an overabundance of inquiries from people all over the world for additional venues. 184 LOCALE MAGAZINE
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he inside of Puesto is definitely unique. The most notable feature is the vibrant wall in the middle of the dining area. Painted with brilliant hues of greens, purples, pinks, blues, and yellows, it’s a breathtaking splash of life and color in the restaurant. The dining area also features sturdy lighted metal archways, lively leafy plants, and a wide window looking into the bustling kitchen. Puesto is designed to accommodate several different kinds of dining arrangements, each with their own vibe. There’s typical seating, a full bar seating, a patio, a room for private parties, and three tables directly in the kitchen for an immersive culinary experience. When dining at Puesto, it’s important to start with appetizers, as all are designed to help your palate anticipate the taco greatness to come. The chicharrónes are a staff favorite; the perfect blend of crunchy and salty compliment anything on the menu, if you can stand saving some for later. Puesto also serves three different types of guacamole at all times. In addition to a classic recipe and rotating seasonal inspired mix, Puesto also serves their Puesto Perfect blend, a mix of classic creamy avocado and salty parmesan cheese. It’s an odd combination, but one that your palate will thank you for. The main event at Puesto is their tacos. Colorful blue, stone ground tortillas wrap the vivid
Ò Puesto Perfect Margarita
ingredients of these intriguing dishes. Some favorites are the Chicken Al Pastor with sweet and spicy pineapple salsa; Zucchini and Cactus; Tamarindo Shrimp; and Mushroom, which is surprisingly refreshing topped with stone fruit salsa. Thankfully, guests don’t have to decide on just one flavor. Mixing and matching is encouraged, and three tacos fit comfortably on perfectly photographable Puesto plates. However, the Puesto taco experience is incomplete without a classic Mexican beer to pair it with, especially at happy hour. Puesto serves Constellation brand beer and spirits, a perfect complement to the exciting menu. The classic Modelo Especial is the most popular and pairs best with most of the cuisine offerings. With a full bar, Puesto also serves a variety of ingenious cocktails such as the El Mezcalito made of Vida Mezcal, guanabana, tamarindo soda, lime leaf, and charred orange. For classics like the Piña Colada and Tijuana Lime Micheladas, the beauty is found in freshness and simplicity. With no twists, these drinks are simply a perfect combination of the traditional recipe. Finally, what meal would be complete without dessert? Puesto offers a flavorful Frozen Horchata to finish off the night with a little sweetness. After the bill is paid and the check is signed, you won’t want to leave your seat.
Photos - Chef Katy Smith: Courtesy Third Coast Photography
THE CHICHARRONS ARE A STAFF FAVORITE; THE PERFECT BLEND OF CRUNCHY AND SALTY AND HONESTLY GO GREAT ON TOP OF ANYTHING ELSE ON THE MENU IF YOU CAN STAND SAVING SOME FOR LATER.
INTERVIEW WITH Puesto’s Executive Creative Chef Katy Smith Q: Walk us through some of the highlights of the menu. Katy Smith: Our menu is all about the tacos, but we do have some really fun starters that are great for getting your palate ready for all the flavors you’re going to get when eating our tacos. My favorite is our Baja striped sea bass that we serve raw with a spicy guava broth and then some beautiful fresh garnishes to cool out the spice. Q: Where do you get your inspiration for the dishes? KS: I’ve done a lot of traveling in Mexico, so some of them are memories of dishes that I ate in Mexico. And some of it is more ingredient focused, seeing what’s seasonal and how I can turn that into really awesome Mexican food. Q: What’s your favorite thing to make? KS: I get really excited about making the soups. I love things that are braised; I love slow cooking sauces. We can make them in bigger batches so I can take my time with them. Q: A big thing at Puesto is the beer and taco combinations. Why do they make such a great combination? KS: None of our tacos are simple, they’re super flavorful. We’ve got flavorful meat followed by flavorful salsas, usually at least one kind of salsa on every taco. They are really rounded and balanced and vibrant and something like a beer is just going to balance it perfectly.
THE HAPPIEST HOURS
Ò Taco Tuesday is from 3 p.m. to close. Puesto offers $2.50 tacos and $3.50 Modelo cans for a perfect evening of tacos and beer. Happy hour is Monday through Friday 3-6 p.m. and offers $3.50 tacos, and $6 Puesto perfect margaritas.
NO ORDINARY TORTILLA
Ò Each tortilla is handmade from organic, nonGMO, Americangrown blue corn.
Q: What exciting things can guests look forward to at Puesto? KS: At Puesto we strive to have a party atmosphere. Our walls are neon colored, and at night we’ve got loud music—it’s a beautiful restaurant. Our food is not fancy, it is delicious and it doesn’t take itself too seriously. We want people to come here and have a great time. I think it really ties into Mexican food well. It’s about feeding your family. It’s about celebrating food. Q: How would you say the food ties in with the design? KS: It’s new, it’s fun, it’s bright and colorful. Q: Where’s the best seat? KS: Maybe it’s just me because I’m a chef, but I love going to restaurants that have those bar seats that face the kitchen. The best spot is right out here where I can see the kitchen, but I’m not completely enveloped by it. LOCALE MAGAZINE 185
SU CASA
Record Breaking Real Estate NEWPORT COAST ESTATE BOASTS MORE THAN A VIEW
WRITTEN BY: KARLI KARANDOS PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY: HÔM SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY
What if you didn’t have to travel thousands of miles to experience a European escape? Imagine waking up to an ocean breeze every day, your own private oasis, beautiful views, and balmy air. Imagine the timeless luxury of a European estate right here in California. This is what life is like at the Villa del Lago, Orange County’s largest estate parcel. Incorporating world class materials sourced directly from Italy, the villa’s design is simply divine. Every detail has been executed to perfection, and the landscape upon which this property sits is a world of its own. And, it could be yours!
HÔM SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY 32356 South Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA 92651 949.494.3600 | www.homgroup.com LISTING AGENTS: Kelly Pintek BRE# 00953543 | 949.342.3636 John Stanaland BRE# 01223768 | 949.689.9047 | www.johnstanaland.com
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1 N Pelican Hill Dr Newport Coast, CA 92657
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“From the terra-cotta limestone finishing, to the marble flooring and arched entryways, to the intricate ironwork on the stairway railings, gold leaf and more, every detail has been handcrafted and chosen to perfection.�
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“Imagine waking up inside this European escape and going out onto your sun-drenched balcony with all of this gorgeous property as your view.”
WHAT A VIEW
This 17,000 squarefoot European designed estate sits on 12.47 acres of land overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
THE DETAILS 8 Bedrooms 17 Bathrooms 17,000 square feet $55,000,000
NATIVE KNOWLEDGE
The Villa del Lago is located less than a mile from the world-class Pelican Hill Resort. Should you feel like leaving the villa, the Pelican Hill Resort is home to a number of fine dining options, a five-star spa, a 36 hole golf course, and more.
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he enchanting Villa del Lago is located at 1 North Pelican Hill Drive along the Newport coast. Upon entry into the gated property, you may feel as if you are leaving the rest of California behind and entering into your very own private and secluded paradise. The Villa del Lago sits upon 12.47 acres of land, with its own serene and secluded lake that spans over one acre. Without a neighbor in sight, the Villa del Lago offers a true sense of privacy and security that is difficult to find. It is as if you are sitting high upon the world, with all of California’s canyon views, twinkling city lights, and breathtaking ocean panoramas on display just for you in your own backyard. The Villa del Lago resides on such a vastness of land that the amenities are abundant. In addition to its private lake, the over 12 acre estate includes its own tennis court, horse stable with accompanying riding ring, a putting green, a pool pavilion, a wine cave, and an organic edible garden to source your own ingredients, just as they do in Italy. With all of this and more, there’s little reason to ever leave the property. The amenities do not stop there. Continuing indoors, the
villa includes an indoor lap swimming pool, high-tech home movie theater, a gym area of diverse equipment, a sauna, and a 14 car garage should you need somewhere to store your car collection. In terms of its exterior design, the Villa del Lago evokes a sense of classic and traditional European charm with stateof-the-art appliances, making everything imaginable perfectly convenient. Every material has been sourced directly from Italy. From the terra-cotta limestone finishing, to the marble flooring and arched entryways, to the intricate ironwork on the stairway railings, gold leaf and more, every detail has been handcrafted and chosen to perfection. The terra cotta stucco surfaces and outdoor tiling present a golden orange hue under the California sunshine. Large archways and open windows welcome one inside where the design’s grandeur becomes more impressive with each step and corner turned. Once inside, you will find beautiful marbled floors and cascading staircases; exquisite chandeliers and lighting fixtures; ornate and glamorous wall decor; detailed ceiling framework; luxurious and plush
upholstery. Indoor dining features of the villa include numerous spaces for formal entertainment, a professional kitchen, a butler’s kitchen, a caterer’s kitchen with a roll-up door, a china and/or silver room, and a deep wooden paneled bar and boardroom. There is an option for any and every occasion. And with more than enough room to accommodate your guests, you won’t have to sacrifice your space or seclusion when hosting others. Those lucky enough to stay in the master wing of the Villa del Lago will experience nothing short of European royalty. The master wing comes equipped with its own living room and private screening room, as well as an expansive master suite. So, imagine waking up inside this European escape and going out onto your sun-drenched balcony with all of this gorgeous property as your view. Imagine the Pacific Ocean stretching across in the distance and living a simpler, more secluded, quiet life, as one may do in a small Italian village. Imagine all this being yours. With the Villa del Lago being Orange County’s largest estate, a property like this is hard to come by. Who needs Italy, when you can have Villa del Lago? LOCALE MAGAZINE 189
T H A N K YO U TO OUR PARTNERS
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Andaz San Diego
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Novecento Boutique
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Astoria at Central Park West
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Pendry San Diego
Beach Hut Deli
Perspire Sauna Studio
BLK Earth Sea Spirits
Pilates on Purpose
Blue Eyed Girl
Pizza:90 | Royal Hawaiian
Brian Liberto Coldwell Banker
Puesto
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Catalina Express
Ra Yoga
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Cinépolis
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Colette’s Catering & Events
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Constellation Brands
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Crow Burger
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DJM Capital Partners, Inc | Pacific City
Starfish
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Tabu Shabu
Dr. Sanjay Grover
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Dr. Wdowin
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Finesse Plastic Surgery
The Cannery
Five Crowns
The Finishing Touch Floors, Inc.
Fletcher Jones Motorcars
The Hobbit
German Tuning Company
The LOOK Fitness
Grand Prix Performance
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TMDW, Inc (Rolex Boutique South Coast Plaza)
JC Resorts
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Two Bunch Palms Resort & Spa
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London Coin Galleries | Newport Beach
Warren Christopher
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