Orange County April 2019

Page 1

S H O PPE EDI T I ON

#92 STEP INTO THE YEAR 3050 WITH THESE FUTURISTIC FASHION LOOKS GET YOUR LIFESTYLE IN GEAR WITH KARMA’S REVERO THIS LUXURY MED SPA PROVIDES POSITIVE HEEL-ING THESE SOCAL MAKERS ARE HANDCRAFTING THEIR DREAM GOODS

CHRISTEN DOMINIQUE A L L T H AT G L I T T E R S

W LOS ANGELES
























22 LOCALE MAGAZINE


Contributor Call Out PHOTO BY:

ROD FOSTER rodfoster.com @rodfoster Meals Deconstructed - Some Like It Hot Craft House 34094 Pacific Coast Hwy, Dana Point, CA 92629 949.481.7734 | www.eatatcrafthouse.com DATE TAKEN: FEBRUARY 13, 2019

LOCALE MAGAZINE 23


®

THE TEAM ERIK HALE Publisher + Founder erik@localemagazine.com | @local_e ASHLEY SMITH COO + Co-Founder ashley@localemagazine.com | @ashleyelainexo REILLY HEINE Art Director + Co-Owner reilly@localemagazine.com | @localereilly | @reillyek

EDITORIAL ANNIE KIM Senior Editor annie@localemagazine.com | @akorakim JORDAN NISHKIAN Editor jordan.n@localemagazine.com | @wordsbyjordan DEANNA NGUYEN Editor deanna@localemagazine.com | @deefordaydreams

DESIGN COLIN GREY VOIGT Graphic Designer colin@localemagazine.com | @colingrey

PRODUCTION KALYNN NGUYEN Production Manager kalynn@localemagazine.com | @kalynncnguyen ALISON BARKER Production Coordinator alison@localemagazine.com | @albarks

SALES & MARKETING MIKE TODD SMITH Vice President of Sales & Marketing mts@localemagazine.com | @miketoddsmith JASON KOSKY Sr. Market Manager jason@localemagazine.com | @locale_jason SCOTT MABRY Market Manager scott@localemagazine.com | @locale_scott BRIANNA ROMANO Partnerships + Marketing Director brianna@localemagazine.com | @briannaontheweekend LAUREN DURAN Partnerships + Marketing Assistant lauren@localemagazine.com | @laurenkduran

FINANCE VALERIE KERR Accountant accounting@localemagazine.com

DISTRIBUTION RICK RAMIREZ & ROBERT JONES

*For full information on our team go to www.localemagazine.com/about LOCALE MAGAZINE 2755 Bristol St Ste 295, Costa Mesa, CA 92626 949.436.8910 • www.localemagazine.com @localemagazine • #localemagazine



®

THE CONTRIBUTORS WRITERS ADRIANA CHAVEZ adrianarenee.com | @adriianarenee ALEXIS MILLS @alexisbmills AMEIHIA TURINGAN iridescentglimmer.wordpress.com | @ameihia ANGELA HATCHER @hatcherangela DIEGO E. GAXIOLA @d.gax ERICA JOHNSON onmogul.com/erica-johnson-85 | @ericabjohnson @phitn53 GABY GARCIA gabygarcia.com| @gabymiami JANE ADLER domainbyjane.com | @janemcgradler JORDAN SMITH @jordo_x3 MICHELLE JACO @TheyCallMe_MJ SABRINA AZADI sabrinaazadi.com persianorange.blogspot.com | @sabrinaazadi SYMPHONY BARNES symphonyabarnes.wordpress.com | @symphonybarnes

PHOTOGRAPHERS CELINE HAEBERLY celinehaeberly.myportfolio.com | @celinehaeberly CHARLIE CHIPMAN charliechipman.com | @charliechipman DAMIEN NOBLE ANDREWS nobleandrews.com | @nobleandrews DANIEL BARRETT @dbarrettphotography DAVID ALONZO HERNANDEZ davidalonzophotography.com| @davidalonzophotography DAVID NARDINI davidnardiniphotography.com | @david_nardini ED VISIONS @edvisions HUNTER COLE huntercolephotography.com | @huntercolephoto JOSIE GONZALES photos.byjosiegonzales.com | @josgonzales KAMBRIA FISCHER kambriafischer.com | @kambria_fischer_photo LEE WALTERS & JEN STROMAN www.leewaltersphotography.com @leewaltersphotography @aperfectbitephotography LUIS GARCIA luisgarciafoto.com | @luisgfoto MATT MISISCO mattmisiscostudios.com | @mattmisiscostudios MAXX KAITLYNN maxxkaitlynn.com | @maxxkaitlynn MICHAEL WESLEY polarizedstudios.com | @polarizedstudios NATHAN COX nathancoxstudios.com | @nathancoxstudios @nathancoxinteriors NICK ISABELLA nickisabella.photography | @nickisabella.photography ROD FOSTER rodfoster.com | @rodfoster ZO’E COLE alohazophoto.life | @alohazophoto.life

FA S H I O N S T Y L I S T S TERESITA MADRIGAL bornorigingal.com | @bornorigingal SARA BORGESE saraborgese.net | @s_borgese

BEAUTY STYLISTS ASHLEY TANI ashleytani.com | @makeupbyashleytani BRIAN BOND brianbondmakeup.com | @brianbondmakeup JENNIFER MAU beautycravebyjennifermau.com | @beautycrave83 JULIA SAVITSKAYA juliadoeshair.com | @juliadoes.hair

PROP STYLISTS ACI LANDA foodthatlooksgood.com | @aci33 DEVON RIESENBERG AND FELA BARNETT sparkleandtoast.com | @sparkleandtoast

*For full information on our contributors go to www.localemagazine.com/about LOCALE MAGAZINE 2755 Bristol St Ste 295, Costa Mesa, CA 92626 949.436.8910 • www.localemagazine.com @localemagazine • #localemagazine



®

Editor's Note 67 Experts

WHAT’S YOUR CRAFT?

Fashion has always held a special place in my household. My dad, who has made a career in the industry, started the tradition off beautifully: by designing my mom’s wedding dress. Many years of walking with my dad around South Coast Plaza (his second home) while he was dressed in his usual cleanly-pressed suits and perfectly-polished Oxfords garnished many compliments: “Your dad is so stylish!” “He’s such a fashionable man!” This led me to wonder something—what’s the difference between ‘stylish’ and ‘fashionable?’ Well, a quick Google search would tell you that the difference between the two terms is that being fashionable is having a knowledge of trends while being stylish is having elegance and class. But I thought it would be more fun to show the difference with an entire magazine. No matter what definition you prefer— being on-trend, being effortless or even a mix of the two— this magazine was created with you in mind. We’ll be introducing you to some local Shoppe Experts (pg. 67) who are making names for themselves with their incredible, handcrafted goods, and you’ll also get to meet some amazing women who are making underprivileged high school girls’ prom dress dreams a reality in our Humanitarian Spotlight (pg. 112). Then we’ll be taking you for a tour of some

of our favorite places to shop in OC, SD, LA and Greater Palm Springs in our Shoppe Guide (pg. 85). From there, we’re fueling up with a delectabe spicy chicken sandwich from Craft House in Meals Deconstructed (pg. 134) and taking an inside look at the incredible wine selection The Hobbit has in its famous wine cellar (pg. 132). We’ll then look into what it takes to perfect our golf swing at UGP (pg. 148) and take a look under the hood of KARMA Automotives’ Revero (pg. 144). But, if that wasn’t enough of an adventure for you, we’ve rounded up some Sin City locals to give you all their tips and tricks for getting the most out of Las Vegas (pg. 165). The cherry on top of this magazine for me was being able to meet with cover star Christen Dominique to learn about how a shy girl from Houston accumulated a huge YouTube following and then launched her own cosmetic line. I may be a little biased because I’m such a fan, but there truly isn’t a better person to be the face of an issue that celebrates all the hard work, expression and soul behind fashion and style (besides my dad, of course). I hope you enjoy exploring this issue’s pages as much as I enjoyed helping to create them. Thank you, Orange County!

JORDAN NISHKIAN Editor jordan.n@localemagazine.com | @wordsbyjordan



®

MAKING ISSUE the

COVER

Photographed By: Damien Noble Andrews, nobleandrews.com | @nobleandrews Photography Assistant: Maxx Kaitlynn, maxxkaitlynn.com | @maxxkaitlynn Model: Christen Dominique, @christendominique | www.dominiquecosmetics.com www.youtube.com/user/christendominique Location: W Los Angeles, 930 Hilgard Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90024 310.208.8765 | www.marriott.com Written By: Jordan Nishkian, @wordsbyjordan Styled By: Teresita Madrigal, bornorigingal.com | @bornorigingal Hair By: Julia Savitskaya, juliadoeshair.com | @juliadoes.hair Makeup By: Brian Bond, brianbondmakeup.com | @brianbondmakeup Suit Provided By: Baruni Fashion, www.baruni.co.uk Top Provided By: Lotuz Jakarta, www.notjustalabel.com/lotuz-jakarta Shoes Provided By: Jewel by Badgley Mischka, www.badgleymischka.com Accessories Provided By: Luxury Brand Group, www.luxurybrandgroup.com

Everyone crowded in the W Los Angeles’ penthouse bedroom admiring rack after rack of metallic, futuristic wardrobe options. Christen Dominique, ready for anything, was grinning ear-to-ear at the plethora of incredible options for her to choose from. “Christen,” Carina Rodelo, Dominique’s assistant, said to get her attention. “That yellow one? Fuego.”

E

Looking stunning in anything she tried on, Dominique selected one of Wardrobe Stylist Teresita Madrigal’s favorite ensembles, a bronze metallic pantsuit. “Metallic is my thing this year,” explained Madrigal. “I was looking at [Dominique’s] Instagram and saw that she likes to wear simple things. But she’s very experimental with makeup, so I wanted to take it further. The outfits are all about being strong—she’s like the Lady Gaga of the beauty industry!” As Dominique basked in the natural light coming in from a sunny LA morning, Makeup Stylist Brian Bond dusted shadows from Dominique’s own line of palettes onto her lids. “The colors are super-pigmented,” he said. “They go on amazing. And

we lucked out because she has a shade called Espresso that matches her jacket literally to the T!” And when it came to hair, Hair Stylist Julia Savitskaya had plenty of inspiration. “All the clothes are so exciting,” she exclaimed. And they really were. From a sleek ‘do with the pantsuit to side-swept waves with the metallic evening gown, Dominique rocked each look with poise, allure and a total Girl Boss attitude. After the team put on some finishing touches, Dominique headed down to the first shoot set up in the Oasis in W Los Angeles’ lobby, one of many gorgeous backdrops for Photographer Damien Noble Andrews to choose from. “I love spaces that are committed to having character— there’s always something at the W that I’m in love with.” Sweet, easy-going and sometimes a little silly, Dominique blossomed in front of the camera. Even though she joked about only having two poses, she ended up channeling her inner vogue like a pro. “This is awesome!” Dominique said with a smile while getting ready for her next look. “I can’t believe this is my life.”

LOCAL E M AGAZI NE 949.436.8910 info@localemagazine.com

THE TEAM

Damien Noble Andrews

30

LOCALE MAGAZINE

All rights reserved © 2019, 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.

Jordan Nishkian

Teresita Madrigal

Julia Savitskaya

Brian Bond

Locale Magazine is printed by SOUTHWEST OFFSET PRINTING 13650 Gramercy Pl Gardena, CA 90249 310.323.0112 www.southwestoffset.com



LOCALE MAGAZINE

TA BL E CO NTEN T S of

APRIL 2019

THIS ISSUE: SHOPPE 85 Shoppe Guide

GET IN, WE’RE GOING SHOPPING

Grab a Friend and Hop in Your Car— We’re Taking a Style Roadtrip

94 Fashion Spread

FUTURAE

These Looks Are Lightyears Ahead

102 Feature

ABOUT FACE!

Tourneau’s Watches Stand the Test of Time

108 Profile

LOVE IS IN THE DETAILS

Meshell “Mimi” Sohl Is the Audrey Hepburn of Jewelry

112 Prom Project

A PROM TO REMEMBER

The YWCA of North Orange County’s Promposal Is a Dream Come True

67 Experts

WHAT’S YOUR CRAFT? Through Passion and Patience, These SoCal Locals Are Handcrafting Perfection

YOKISHOP 2429 West Coast Hwy, Ste 102 Newport Beach, CA 92663 949.351.5389 www.yokishop.com

32 LOCALE MAGAZINE

PHOTOGRAPHED BY: HUNTER COLE



LOCALE MAGAZINE

TA BL E CO NTEN T S of

APRIL 2019

134

165

Escape

Foodie

148

116 Louie’s by the Bay

THE FLAVORS OF BELLISSIMO

Fall in Love at First Bite With Louie’s by the Bay

118 Epic Wings

WINGIN’ IT

It’s Always Fresh, Never Frozen at Epic Wings

121 Experts

RAISING THE BAR

Alive 142 Naturally White OC

BRIGHTER SMILES PER HOUR

How 60 Minutes Can Add a Dazzle to Your Smile

144 Feature

Local Mixologists Show off Their Takes on Seasonal Ingredients

LET KARMA TAKE THE WHEEL

130

148

Two Things We Love

UGP

Every Day Is Taco Tuesday at Anaheim Packing District’s URBANA

Swing Into High Gear With UGP’s Multi-Factor Program

NOW THAT’S WHAT I’M TACO’IN ABOUT

132 The Hobbit

SOMETHING TO WINE ABOUT

At The Hobbit, Making a Wine Selection Goes Beyond the Pages of a Menu

134 Meals Deconstructed

SOME LIKE IT HOT

For Chef Blake Mellgren, That’s Just How the Biscuit Crumbles

138 Nirvana Grille

MEAT YOUR MATCH

Enter Nirvana With Wine Pairings Made in Heaven

34 LOCALE MAGAZINE

Drive in Luxury With KARMA’s Electric Vehicles

PERFECTION TO THE TEE

162 Pro Tips

THE REAL-EST ESTATE AROUND

Find Your Forever Home With Realtor Casey Lesher

165 That’s What They Said

¡VIVA LAS VEGAS!

These Vegas Experts Show Us the Best of Their City

176 See, Stay, Eat

DESERT DAYTRIPPIN’

Here's Our Itinerary for When You Visit the Desert Oasis

178 580 Anton Apartments

NO PLACE WE’D RATHER BE

How 580 Anton Completes Costa Mesa’s Hub of Luxury

150 Artist Spotlight

LEAVING HER MARK

For Sana Yousuf, Henna Is All About Beauty and Expression

152 Feature

FEET-URE PRESENTATION

This Luxury Med Spa Is the First of Its Kind to Keep Your Feet Happy and Healthy

158 Think Together

A SHOW OF HANDS

Think Together’s Raise a Hand Event Paves the Way for Student Success

CHECK OUT EXTENDED STORIES AND MORE ON OUR WEBSITE AT Localemagazine.com



LOCALENDAR SPRING INTO THE SEASON WITH THESE 20 ORANGE COUNTY EVENTS WRITTEN BY: SYMPHONY BARNES

1

2

3

April 26-27

April 26-28

April 26

UNLIMITED WINE TASTING ALERT! ¢ Yes, you read that correctly! Enjoy unlimited wine tasting and complimentary appetizers, all while being surrounded by the ocean at the Dana Point Yacht Club and Lantern Bay Park at this year’s California Wine Festival in Dana Point. californiawinefestival.com

SOMETHING TO WAG ABOUT ¢ Show some love for your fur baby! Check out a wide variety of pet retailers, groomers, rescue organizations and more at the Orange County Market Place for the 30th annual America’s Family Pet Expo. www.ocfair.com/eventscalendar/americas-familypet-expo

WATCH AVENGERS: ENDGAME IN LUXURY ¢ You’re going to want the best seats possible for this! Enjoy the premiere of the latest Avengers film in a luxurious theater, complete with reclining seats, a full bar, in-theater waiter service and more! www.cinepolisusa.com

4

DIVE DEEP WITH BRIAN SKERRY: OCEAN SOUL April 14

¢ Explore the depths of the ocean with Brian Skerry. He’ll be showcasing his riveting photography work at Irvine Barclay Theater and sharing his experiences as an Underwater Photographer at this National Geographic Live! event.

events.nationalgeographic. com/talks/ocean-soul/irvinebarclay-theatre

5

CELEBRATE SCOTLAND IN COSTA MESA May 25-26

¢ Experience Scottish music and culture at this year’s Scottish Fest, which will be featuring piping and drumming competitions, the Western Regional Highland Dance Championship, Scottish Athletic Championships and over eight stages of world-class musical entertainment. www.scottishfest.com

6

May 28-June 9

¢ Costa Mesa’s Segerstrom Center for the Arts will be taking Roald Dahl’s story to the stage with songs from the original film plus a new score from the songwriters of “Hairspray.” scfta.org/events/2019/charlieand-the-chocolate-factory

CELEBRATE A POP ICON April 13

¢ Warm up those

vocal chords and get ready to sing along! Catch P!NK’s Beautiful Trauma World Tour at the Honda Center along with renowned singer-songwriter Julia Michaels. And, if you purchase your ticket online, you’ll be able to redeem a physical copy of “Beautiful Trauma” as a keepsake. www.hondacenter.com/ events/p-nk-april-2019

8

OC MARATHON May 3-5

¢ Runners unite for the 15th anniversary of the OC Marathon where there’s the option of running a full marathon, half, 5K or even a full and half combo. www.ocmarathon.com

36 LOCALE MAGAZINE

9

SIPS UP IN SURF CITY April 28

¢ Looking to try something new? Head to Taste of Huntington Beach where, for an all-inclusive ticket price, you get to try an unlimited amount of food and drinks from over 50 local eateries, breweries and wineries. www.tastehb.com

10

CORGI BEACH DAY June 29

¢ To see quite possibly the cutest tradition on Huntington Dog Beach, mark your calendars for 2019 Corgi Beach Day, the biggest corgi party on the planet for events, contests and activities galore! www.bringfido.com/ event/38037

Photos - Segerstrom Center for the Arts | Brian Skerry

“CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY” COMES TO LIFE

7



LOCALENDAR SPRING INTO THE SEASON WITH THESE 20 ORANGE COUNTY EVENTS WRITTEN BY: SYMPHONY BARNES

11

12

13

May 17

June 1-2

June 21-22

GET A TASTE OF SUNSHINE CITY ¢ Taste a bunch of different foods from popular Anaheim eateries at Taste of Anaheim. There’ll be a variety of restaurants, bakeries and more sharing their food offerings at the Anaheim GardenWalk. www.tasteofanaheim.com

JOIN THE DUCK-ATHON AT THE HB PIER ¢ Not only is this rubber duck race from the Huntington Beach Pier back to the shore always a fun competition, but this local tradition also helps with raising funds for AltaMed Medical and Dental Group. www.altamedfoundation. org/duck-a-thon

PREPARE FOR A FULL HOUSE ¢ You may remember him as a familiar face from one of your favorite sitcoms, but get ready for a night of laughs when actor Bob Saget comes to Irvine Improv for some standup comedy. www.improv.com/irvine/ comic/bob+saget/

14

THE SAWDUST ART & CRAFT FESTIVAL BEGINS June 28-Sept. 1

¢ This festival is a tradition

for Laguna Beach and features 200 artists, specializing in mediums such as hand-blown and fused glass, painting, ceramics, clothing and textiles, sculpture and photography. Plus, there will be live music and entertainment, art classes and daily demos, craft beer and wine and more!

www.sawdustartfestival.org/ festivals/summer-festival

15

GET READY FOR GIRL POWER May 4-5

¢ This year’s Orange County Ultimate Women’s Expo at the Anaheim Convention Center will be featuring a variety of exhibits, workshops and celebrity speakers, all in the name of helping thousands of women gain access to the best new resources, products and services for their families, homes and businesses. www.ocwomensexpo.com

CALLING ALL FILM BUFFS April 25-May 2

¢ Whether you’re

submitting or viewing, this event is worth saving the dates for! The 20th Annual Newport Beach Film Festival will be welcoming over 500 filmmakers and 50,000 film fans to Orange County to enjoy a screening of over 300 features and short films. newportbeachfilmfest.com

38 LOCALE MAGAZINE

PARTY LIKE IT’S 1985 May 11

¢ The Like Totally Festival

will be featuring national 1980s bands, celebrity impersonators, an ‘80sthemed costume contest, plus lots of shopping vendors, food trucks and a full bar. www.liketotallyfestival.com

18

CANTA Y NO LLORES May 18

¢ Enjoy live performances by mariachi groups from the local area and beyond as they compete for prizes at Mission San Juan Capistrano. Also, stay for the ringing of the historic Mission bells and gourmet Mexican food from local vendors. www.missionsjc.com/eventsvenue/signature-events/ battle-of-the-mariachis

19

MAKE ORANGE COUNTY PROUD June 22

¢ Let’s celebrate our differences! OC Pride’s mission is to strengthen and unite those in the LGBT community within Orange County by celebrating the culture, traditions and spirit at OC Pride Parade and Festival. www.prideoc.com

20

TUNE IN TO SEA TERRACE PARK May 18-19

¢ Have the blues? Cure them with live music from big names in rock, soul and blues music at Dana Point’s Doheny Blues Festival. Don’t forget to save room for local food and drink vendors! dohenybluesfestival.com

Photos - Orange County LGBT Pride | Newport Beach Film Festival

16

17



NATIVE KNOWLEDGE BY LOCALS FOR LOCALS /// WHERE TO SPEND YOUR DAYS

All Tressed Up THE OWNER OF RA’PÔR SALON & BARBER SHARES HER GO-TO HAIRDOS FOR HER FAVORITE DATE SPOTS

EXPERT: Emily Humphrey CREDENTIALS: Owner, Ra’pôr Salon & Barber

LIFE OF PIE ¢ Great drinks, music and pizza—Pie Society is a favorite of mine. I’d wear my hair in a clean top bun with shag bangs slightly parted in the middle and finish with hoop earrings inspired by the ambiance. www.piesocietybar.com

FLAVORS OF MARÍA ¢ For a dining adventure, sit at Taco María’s counter and watch how much detail goes into every course of their Prix Fixe menu. Lived-in waves would be my choice for the evening. www.tacomaria.com

BEANS AND BEATS ¢ Common Room Roasters roasts their beans in-house and there’s a DJ on Saturdays. Being that the sun is up, I would throw on a cute hat and run some Bumble and bumble Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil through my ends for effortless hair. www.commonroomroasters.com

GARAGE DATE ¢ 2145, a garage-turnedpizzeria, has an oversized dining table that is perfect for

RA’PÔR SALON & BARBER 1780 Newport Blvd Costa Mesa, CA 92627 949.287.6819 www.raporsalon.com

40

LOCALE MAGAZINE

a group date. I would make Friday reservations at 7 p.m. which gives me time to stop by the salon for a blowout. www.2145eat.com

PLEASE DON’T STOP THE MUSIC ¢ If you like live music, The Observatory is your spot. From punk to hip hop, folk to reggae, they have it all. A messy topknot will keep you cool through the night. www.observatoryoc.com

LSX’S AND O’S ¢ Imagine the hippest dinner party in Hanoi with a view. Get a gloss during the week so your hair is shiny and healthy. Wear it parted; you won’t want to compete for attention at LSXO.

“For a dining adventure, sit at Taco María’s counter and watch how much detail goes into every course of their Prix Fixe menu.”

www.dinebluegold.com

BREAKFAST OF LOCALS ¢ Most people don’t even need a menu. Sugar Shack has a romantic authenticity that only comes with age. The patio is where to sit on a sunny day. Wear your hair tied up in a scarf. www.hbsugarshack.com

PHOTO BY: Ed Visions



NATIVE KNOWLEDGE BY LOCALS FOR LOCALS /// WHERE TO BE MONDAY-SUNDAY

A Doctor’s Referral AGELESS MD’S DR. TSAY SHOWS US HOW HE SPENDS HIS WEEK

EXPERT: Dr. Ti Jo Tsay CREDENTIALS: Medical Director, Ageless MD

MONDAY ¢ I usually follow up via text message with my patients while maintaining a full schedule of patients for anti-aging and hormone replacement therapy. Occasionally I’ll make a short trip to SUP Noodle Bar for Pho Rib Bones and Lomo Saltado fries. supnoodlebar.com

TUESDAY ¢ The office is usually packed. While my nurse, Shinobu, is doing all the laser treatments like laser hair removal IPL and Qswitch, I’m in the next room doing liquid facelifts and slimming jawlines. Then I’ll go to Studio 18 Nail Bar for their Champagne & Rose pedicure and their awesome bath bombs. www.studio18nailbar.com

WEDNESDAY ¢ I’m doing procedures that require more time such as nanofat transfer to the face, non-surgical thread lift and sculpture butt augmentation. Then, a Cheese Cap Sesame Rock Tea from next door at HNT Organic Tea House. www.hnteagroup.com

THURSDAY ¢ For my day off, I go to Alisa Akiko at The Sharper Look for my hair grooming. Often times

I am at a recording studio in Orange filming my next video parody of a hit song. Later, you may see me socializing at Mesa. www.thesharperlook.com www.giosound.com www.mesacostamesa.com

FRIDAY ¢ Fridays are spent plumping up and creating sexy lips, slimming faces with botox or Kybella and hammering away at acne scars. If in the mood for Mexican food and margaritas, I would hit up Javier’s.

“After work, I enjoy spending time and relaxing at the Irvine SPA. Besides the dipping pools, I enjoy the variety of aromatherapy rooms.”

www.javiers-cantina.com

SATURDAY ¢ This is a half day for me at least until 4 p.m. After work, I enjoy spending time and relaxing at the Irvine SPA. Besides the dipping pools, I enjoy the variety of aromatherapy rooms. www.irvinespa.com

SUNDAY ¢ Sunday is the ultimate relaxation day. I will get my workout in at 24 Hour Fitness at Tustin Marketplace. If in need of a very firm deep tissue massage, Eva at Super Massage Spa in Tustin does the best job. www.24hourfitness.com www.supermassagespa.com

AGELESS MD 14001 Newport Ave, Ste F Tustin, CA 92780 714.760.9918 www.ageless-md.com Photoshoot Location: MESA 725 Baker St Costa Mesa, CA 92626 714.557.6700 www.mesacostamesa.com

42

LOCALE MAGAZINE

PHOTO BY: Ed Visions



NATIVE KNOWLEDGE BY LOCALS FOR LOCALS /// WHERE TO SPEND YOUR DAYS

Eat, Drink and Be Mary THE DESIGNER OF NOVELLA ROYALE REVEALS WHAT FUELS HER INSPIRATION

EXPERT: Mary Myers CREDENTIALS: Founder/Designer, Novella Royale

SCENT-SATIONAL FINDS ¢ I frequent La Casa Verde de Granada almost weekly. I buy my incense there, and if you know me personally or have been to our shop, you know I burn a lot of incense. It’s an incredible second-hand store— don’t rush through this place! www.lacasaverdestore.com

WHERE EVERYBODY KNOWS YOUR NAME ¢ MRK Public is my “Cheers”— they pour my favorite wine, Goldwater, as soon as I walk through the door. Order the Thai salad with tofu and vegan dressing, and order the fries. They have the best fries I’ve ever had, and I’ve had a lot of fries! www.mrkpublic.com

THIS IS HOW SHE ROLLS ¢ I’m vegan so sushi has always been a tough sell, but my daughter is OBSESSED. Enter Muse, the answer to both of our cravings. They have spicy miso that is pretty bananas! I get the Last Night in San Clemente roll veggie-style with soy paper. www.musesushi.com

ALL THINGS LOVELY IN PRISM ¢ This is not a shameless plug! Prism Boutique happens to stock Novella Royale, BUT they have the best selection in OC.

NOVELLA ROYALE 1100 N El Camino Real San Clemente, CA 92672 949.388.9336 www.novellaroyale.com

44

LOCALE MAGAZINE

“The joy of chitchatting at a hair salon is finding out about gems like Jean Genie Denim. She customtailors vintage denim to your body!”

Dayna, the owner, has a special eye for selling what you didn’t know you needed until you’ve seen it. www.prismboutique.com

ADORA-BOWL ¢ S.C. Cafe is pretty much every local’s go-to breakfast spot! They make a special vegan bowl for me, and I’m lobbying to have it put on the menu! If you go, ask for the Mary Bowl. @sccafe

TALK ABOUT GOOD JEANS ¢ The joy of chit-chatting at a hair salon is finding out about gems like Jean Genie Denim. She custom-tailors vintage denim to your body! If you DM her, tell her Mary from NR sent you! @jeangeniedenim

THE FLEA MARKET WITH STYLE ¢ The Long Beach Antique Market is the best place to treasure hunt. My son, Koa, often accompanies me. I’m usually stocking up on special, unique clothing, accessories and houseware, but Koa is currently on the lookout for Van Halen records. www.longbeachantiquemarket.com

PHOTO BY: Ed Visions



NATIVE KNOWLEDGE BY LOCALS FOR LOCALS /// WHERE TO SPEND YOUR DAYS

Heart and Sole THE MAN BEHIND ESQUIVEL SHARES ALL THE SHOPS EVERY OC GUY SHOULD KNOW

EXPERT: George Esquivel CREDENTIALS: Founder and Creative Director, Esquivel

GOTTA SEE IT TO BELIEVE IT ¢ One of the most beautiful stores in the world. A’maree’s is curated in such a unique way that every single item in the store feels special. Words and pictures don’t do the store justice. www.amarees.com

GET IT AT GARYS ¢ Anything a guy could want from head to toe is carried at this pillar of men’s fashion. The selection at GARYS varies from the most well-known European brands to small independent brands. www.garysonline.com

A TRUE WORK OF ART ¢ This home goods and furnishings gallery is a true find. It stocks treasures from new and established designers from all over the world. Some items are exclusively sold in the U.S. at Aleph Gallery. www.aleph-gallery.com

PURE CHEMISTRY ¢ Alchemy Works is the brainchild of a super-stylish husband and wife duo. They have done a great job showcasing and offering items

ESQUIVEL 7372 Walnut Ave, Ste U Buena Park, CA 90620 714.670.2200 www.esquivelshoes.com

46

LOCALE MAGAZINE

for men and women that take one from the beach to a chic night out. www.alchemyworks.us

THE FINISHING TOUCHES ¢ The owner of G & G European Tailoring, Marie, is a magician! On a scale of 1-10 she is probably a 15. They are so old-school they don’t have a website. They’re in Cypress— trust me, it’s worth the drive! 714.994.2363

SOMETHING FOR HER ¢ I love shopping at Atelier 7918—I can always find something for my wife. They have everything from unique European brands to SoCal staples of jeans and t-shirts.

“The owner of G & G European Tailoring, Marie, is a magician!”

www.atelier7918.com

MAKING MEMORIES ¢ I love Felix Continental Cafe! My wife and I have been sharing meals here since we were just out of high school. Everything is so good, but I love their plantains. www.felixcontinentalcafe.com

PHOTO BY: Ed Visions



I

I N S TA G R A M

STATS:

24

Countries Visited

20

Times She’s Watched The Notebook

72

Pairs of Jeans

5

WE

“Here’s my guilty pleasure—I could eat Sprinkles’ Red Velvet Ice Cream every day of my life!”

Lydia’s Gram THIS STYLE INFLUENCER SHARES TIPS, STATS AND WHO TO FOLLOW

—LYDIA WEBB

TIPS ON BECOMING A SUCCESSFUL FASHION INSTAGRAMMER 1.

Really have a passion for sharing your personal style.

2.

Invest time and energy into taking good photos.

3.

Be selective with brands and products you partner with.

4.

Have patience because it takes time.

5.

It’s cliché, but be yourself! Everyone else is already taken. 1. 5K L I KES

2.4K L IKES

3

48 LOCALE MAGAZINE

10k

—LYDIA WEBB

“I love these accounts mainly because they show off their families and everything they do, whether it’s fashion or travel, in an aspirational yet relatable way. Their feed isn’t [just] all color filter or theme, so there is a certain realness that is very refreshing.” @rachparcell @thebucketlistfamily @hellofashionblog

JUST KEEP GROWING

March 2015

20k September 2015

40k May 2016

1.6K L IK E S

Follow Lydia Webb @lydia.webb

80k February 2017

Written By and Photography Provided By: Lydia Webb

OF LYDIA’S FAVORITE INSTAGRAM ACCOUNTS

“My favorite quote is: ‘People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.’”



LETTER TO… STYLIST NAZ MEKNAT WRITES AN OPEN LETTER TO HER FIRST STYLE ICON

Dear Audrey, I’ve come a long way since the days of obsessively watching your films and flipping through your photos, daydreaming of Givenchy’s as perfect as yours. It’s obvious the effortless beauty, grace and class you would put in each and every one of your looks is a gleaming inspiration in how I style myself today. You taught me that fashion isn’t just about what you wear, but about the way you use it to deliver a message. Being the powerful and compassionate woman that you were, it shaped the way I approached my life in addition to my style. With so many fashion choices and different styles out there, you helped me come to realize that pulling back to the basics of glamour and poise is really all I need as a basis to create an unforgettable look, both for my clients and myself. Your style isn’t about making a scene, but about making a lasting impression, something that invokes inspiration and demands respect–something unforgettable. But perhaps the most important aspect your sense of style has taught me is that above all, it should look effortless. Sometimes the simplicity of a turtleneck, a pair of fitted crop pants and classic pumps is chicer than a complicated dress, and you’ve proved that in every stage of your life. And of course, I’ll never forget the most important accessory you carved into my brain—not a necklace, hat or earrings, but a smile. I must owe it to you; my knack for consistency in all my styling is thanks to you. “Why change? Everyone has their own style. When you have found it, you should stick to it.” These words ring true after all these years, and because you inspired me, my work has grown organically into its own and has never strayed from my vision, which mirrors your essence of being effortless-but-chic and completely timeless.

Naz Meknat Fashion Stylist

When you dreamed of beautiful clothes, I dreamed right there with you. I love you and I hope that I can shape the way fashion is integrated into a person’s everyday life the way you did for me. Love Always,

A Creative Flair • I’ve always loved anything creative. After exploring a few different creative fields, I learned that my love for fashion and styling was greater than anything else, so I enrolled at Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising and started my career in styling.

True Classics • I love most of Audrey Hepburn’s movies, but if I have to pick one it would be Breakfast at Tiffany’s, but Roman Holiday and My Fair Lady are also on top of my list.

Naz

Thinking of cooler days

Simple Style Staples What You Need to Channel Your Inner Audrey

50 LOCALE MAGAZINE

A pair of tailored cigarette pants.

A pair of classic black pumps.

Fitted black turtleneck.

NAZ MEKNAT @stylebynaz

Photography Provided By: Edward Espinosa

Leading Man • You can find Meknat’s work donned on the red carpet by a familiar face: Sterling K. Brown.



FROM THE PAGES OF LOCALE LOS ANGELES Wi-Fi in the Fastlane • Thanks to Race Communication, Villas at Playa Vista’s locations are equipped with ultra high-speed internet. High-quality and speed are Race Communications priorities and now, your internet is just that.

Native Knowledge • No need to wonder about internet access! Upon move-in day, take a look around your apartment for the fiber connection which guarantees you highspeed internet.

Each community of fers residents the chance to pick a building that most suits their own lifestyle.

Dive Right In • Dip into one of the five saltwater pools located across the three communities. Each of the Jr. Olympicsized pool decks offer Wi-Fi, cabanas, tanning chairs and Jacuzzis, perfect for a day of relaxing. VILLAS AT PLAYA VISTA 12855 Runway Rd Playa Vista, CA 90094 844.537.4563 www.irvinecompanyapartments.com

Livin’ La Vida Vista HERE’S YOUR WALK THROUGH OF VILLAS AT PLAYA VISTA’S PREMIER COMMUNITIES

mile from the beach and offers residents incredible amenities including

Howard Hughes Aircraft Company, this West LA hot spot is where all the

For the Love of Wine

Start packing, we just found your new luxury abode. The Irvine Company Apartment’s new apartment community at Playa Vista is located just a

five pools, three gyms and resort-style living. Formerly the location of the

action is taking place. Dip into one of the pools, enjoy a drink in the wine cellar and get your zen on in the reflection garden at Sausalito. Check out these three thriving and incredible communities, in Silicon Beach: Sausalito, Malibu and Montecito. Each community offers residents the chance to pick a building that most suits their own lifestyle. 52 LOCALE MAGAZINE

For Your Fur Baby • Located near 19 different parks and the beach, playtime with your puppy pal will never be dull. After a day of fun, you can bring your pup back home and use the dog wash bay to clean them off.

WRITTEN BY: ASHLEE POLAREK PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY: VILLAS AT PLAYA VISTA

S

Work It Out • Enjoy three fitness and yoga studios, instead of making the trek to the gym, or use the off-site HOA gym. Residents also have access to complimentary fitness classes to help keep in shape all year round.

• The community at Montecito is home to a gorgeous wine cellar that has a long, Viking-style table, tall chairs and wine

lockers for residents to rent and store their wine in. Rent the entire space and host an evening of wine tasting with your squad! Community and Comfort for All • Across the three communities at Playa Vista, residents can choose from 37 different layouts. Each community offers a different lifestyle ready to suit anyone’s needs from luxury to relaxed to social. A Little Work, A Lotta Play • At Sausalito and Montecito, enjoy the ilounge center complete with Wi-Fi, conference rooms, computers, printers and more! At Villas at Playa Vista-Malibu, enjoy direct access to Playa Vista’s Runway where you can access great shopping finds, restaurants and entertainment.



FROM THE PAGES OF LOCALE SAN DIEGO

“Making sure your soil is healthy is essential to a great garden.”

Farm Manager ADAM MCCURDY,

rm

at Coastal Roots Fa

1

CAN YOU DIG IT? • “Making sure your soil is healthy is essential to a great garden. Grab a soil test kit from A & L Western Soil Labs to see what nutrients are already in your soil.” 2

BUG OFF! • “Not all bugs are bad—in fact, a diverse group of insects can help keep the good bugs around and kick the bad ones to the curb. Protect your garden with the biodiversity of insects by using IPM (Insect Pesticide Management) for an organic option.”

Good to Grow

3

‘TIS THE SEASON • “Bring in the springtime with the right crops that mix up your garden with their different bloom times. Radishes, broccoli, carrots, kale, chard, collards, lettuce and Bastia are the perfect fit.”

ADAM MCCURDY SHARES HIS TOP TIPS FOR A BLOOMING HOME GARDEN

WRITTEN BY: ALETTA COOKE PHOTOGRAPHED BY: LEAH STEIGER

Old McDonald may have had a farm, but he could never dream up the experience Coastal Farm gives. Located in Encinitas, this picturesque property sits on over 70 acres and features sustainable agricultural produce that serves to help fight food insecurity and cultivate the land based on ancient Jewish traditions. With over 17 years of farming experience, Adam McCurdy, Coastal Farm’s farm manager, shares tips on how to create your home garden.

4

TOMATO, TO-MA-TO • “Tomatoes are very susceptible to pests and fungal infections. Plan to work hard up front and continue doing so throughout the season to be rewarded with these ripe veggies.”

5

BEST BUDDIES • “Sometimes a natural garden can use a little bit of help. Products such as Thin Reemay Floating Row Crop Covers can protect and grow your garden.”

“Bring in the springtime with the right crops that mix up your garden with their different bloom times.”

“Plan to work hard up front and continue doing so throughout the season to be rewarded with these ripe veggies.”

All for Food, Food for All • Coastal Farm offers a Pay What You Can farm stand to welcome the community and offer fresh produce for all families, no matter their income.

54 LOCALE MAGAZINE

At The Center of it All • What used to be called the “flower growing capital of the world” is now where Coastal Roots Farm’s property sits.

COASTAL ROOTS FARM 441 Saxony Rd Encinitas, CA 92024 760.479.6505 www.coastalrootsfarm.org



CHRISTEN DOMINIQUE @christendominique www.youtube.com/user/christendominique www.dominiquecosmetics.com Photoshoot Location: W LOS ANGELES 930 Hilgard Ave Los Angeles, CA 90024 310.208.8765 www.marriott.com

JACKET PROVIDED BY: Blanka The Label www.blankaboutique.com TOP PROVIDED BY: AYA by Dina Kabdolla www.ayabydk.com PANTS PROVIDED BY: Revolve www.revolve.com SHOES PROVIDED BY: ReStyled Vintage wwww.shoprestyled.com EARRINGS PROVIDED BY: Madame Baloge www.madamebaloge.com RINGS PROVIDED BY: Daniel Espinosa www.shopdanielespinosa.com Luxury Brand Group www.luxurybrandgroup.com

56 LOCALE MAGAZINE


SHINE ON C H R I ST EN DOM IN I Q UE’S F U T URE I S GET T I N G B R I G H T ER B Y T H E D AY WRITTEN BY: JORDAN NISHKIAN

PHOTOGRAPHED BY: DAMIEN NOBLE ANDREWS PHOTOGRAPHY ASSISTANT: MAXX KAITLYNN STYLED BY: TERESITA MADRIGAL

HAIR BY: JULIA SAVITSKAYA • MAKEUP BY: BRIAN BOND

LOCALE MAGAZINE 57


IF YOU SPEAK TO CHRISTEN DOMINIQUE A N D S E E H O W G R A C E F U L LY S H E C A R R I E S H E R S E L F, I T W O U L D B E D I F F I C U LT T O E V E R I M A G I N E T H E B E A U T Y- I N F L U E N C E R - T U R N E D C E O A S A N Y T H I N G B U T C O N F I D E N T. W I T H 1 . 5 M I L L I O N F O L L O W E R S O N I N S TA G R A M AND 4.2 MILLION SUBSCRIBERS ON Y O U T U B E , T H E M A K E U P A R T I S T H A S TA K E N THE WORLD BY STORM WITH HER MAKEUP T U T O R I A L S , A N D , M O R E R E C E N T LY, H E R OWN COSMETIC LINE. BUT ACCORDING TO THIS SELF-PROCLAIMED “SUPER S H Y, R E S E RV E D ” W O M A N , A C H I L D H O O D I N S E C U R I T Y I S W H AT S TA R T E D H E R JOURNEY TO SUCCESS.

“I was super selfconscious about my [dark] under-eye circles and I was constantly getting teased. It’s so sad that it started that way, but it did,” Dominique recants. After two years of getting teased for her under-eye circles, a seventh-grade Dominique decided it was time to do something about them. Even though she wasn’t allowed to wear makeup at the time, she found herself getting into her mom’s purse and discovered a yellow corrector. “After [putting it on] I went to school [and] I feel like everyone treated me so much better. This was seventh grade— those little things make such a difference.

In my head, everything was just better. And I felt more confident.” From then on, there was no going back. “I started doing makeup for my friends in the locker room—I was literally a locker room makeup artist,” she laughs and shakes her head. “It just happened that way. Everyone went to me for makeup.” What began as a fun, creative thing to do with her friends soon launched into a full-fledged passion. “I knew that I wanted to continue to pursue it even after high school because it made me happy,” says Dominique. “I love making people feel good about themselves. So eventually, I just [freelanced] on the side, [and I did that] for a long time.”

58


“WHEN I FIRST S TA R T E D I WA S R E A L LY S H Y ; I D I D N ’ T WA N T T O G O ON YOUTUBE. BUT THEN I WENT ON YOUTUBE, GAINED CONFIDENCE AND THEN I JUST FOUND A L OV E F O R I T. ” —CHRISTEN DOMINIQUE

SUIT PROVIDED BY: Baruni Fashion www.baruni.co.uk TOP PROVIDED BY: Lotuz Jakarta www.notjustalabel.com/lotuz-jakarta SHOES PROVIDED BY: Jewel by Badgley Mischka www.badgleymischka.com ACCESSORIES PROVIDED BY: Luxury Brand Group www.luxurybrandgroup.com

LOCALE MAGAZINE 59


TECHNIQUE ON FLEEK

• “The trickiest technique [to master] is getting the brows the exact same way every single time,” says Dominique. “I swear my brows still come out different every day!”

THE ESSENTIALS

• Five beauty products or tools Dominique can’t live without are concealer, brows, mascara, lip balm and a beauty blender.

PRO TIP

• What’s Dominique’s advice for future influencers? “Just be yourself!”

SUPER MOM

• When it comes to finding work/ life balance, it can be difficult, but Dominique says, “You have to set time aside for family. I am a mom. I make sure that my mornings are all about my son, so I don't pick up my phone until he's at school.”

A CHANGE IN PACE

• “Now I feel like YouTube is shifting, so it's not as makeup tutorial-driven,” Dominique explains. “It's more just like fun challenges and just having fun with makeup. Nothing too serious!” JACKET PROVIDED BY: Kelly Shin @kellyshin_official TOP PROVIDED BY: Luxury by Feyi www.luxurybyfeyi.com SKIRT PROVIDED BY: Silvana Tedesco www.silvanatedesco.com.au GLOVES PROVIDED BY: Kerry Parker www.kerryparker.uk SHOES PROVIDED BY: Naturalizer www.naturalizer.com EARRINGS PROVIDED BY: Daniel Espinosa www.shopdanielespinosa.com

60 LOCALE MAGAZINE


“ I S TA R T E D D O I N G M A K E U P F O R M Y F R I E N D S I N T H E L O C K E R R O O M — I WA S L I T E R A L LY A L O C K E R R O O M M A K E U P A R T I S T. ” — C H R I S T E N D O M I N I Q U E

F

For Dominique, it was clear from the beginning that she had a natural knack for makeup. “I just fell in love with it,” she expresses. “I was contouring when I didn’t even know I was contouring. It was before Kim Kardashian made it a thing. I was brightening all the way up to the temple and I didn’t realize that I was almost, like, highlighting, and I was doing this to everyone!” By teaching herself, she found a lot of successes, but she was also able to see where she needed to improve. Starting out as an artist, she “was broke, but really had a passion for it.” She was working and experimenting with $10 makeup products, but after a while she decided to plan for the long term and “save for better palettes so that [her kit could] look a little bit better.” While her choice in products and tools began to evolve, her schedule was becoming busier by the day. No stranger to juggling a busy lifestyle, Dominique recalls how she was balancing school with work and her personal life with her passion. But soon, she found herself facing the very real possibility of having to give up her freelancing gigs as well as her new YouTube channel. “When I first started I was really shy; I didn’t want to go on YouTube. But then I went on YouTube, gained confidence and then I just found a love for it. I was creating content and getting to connect with so many people. I kind of felt like maybe this could be something, and I've always wanted to create my own cosmetic line just starting

out as an artist. It was a fantasy for sure for me at the time, but when I got a call from a company [where] I wanted to [work] full time, I took the job.” Thankfully, her husband, Cesar, had other plans. “My husband pushed me [and] was like, ‘No, this is a once in a lifetime opportunity. Let's go and try it,’” Dominique gushes. “I'm so grateful for him. He is my rock. I mean, [without him] I would have stayed in my comfy little Houston home behind the cubicle doing insurance.” With that, Dominique immediately set to work. She and her then-six-year-old son, Jaden, moved out to LA, and even though they were on their own in SoCal for two months, Dominique only used this to keep pushing forward and to continue building her following. What started as 45,000 subscribers when she made the move swiftly flourished. “Within about two years I went to one million, and then my views kept growing and I was like, ‘Woah! You guys really like me! We’re like friends!’” Similar to her experience with perfecting her makeup skills, creating her content and editing her videos took time, passion and patience. “I just had fun with it, and I always had technique education in [my videos]. If I had inspo for a beach look, I’d go to the beach and I'd cut to music and that was a cool thing I liked to do,” Dominique explains. “I also really enjoyed editing, but I knew I had to take it to the next level. It took hours and hours to learn how to change color and use Final Cut Pro. There were so many editing techniques that I really had to learn.”

61


“ M Y M A I N R E A S O N F O R C R E AT I N G T H E B R A N D W A S T O C R E AT E S O M E T H I N G S U I TA B L E F O R A N A R T I S T A S W E L L A S A M A K E U P L OV E R . ” — C H R I S T E N D O M I N I Q U E

S

Since then, she has gotten her routine down pat. Her studio is always set; the only things that change are the background and the light filter. She also has a professional editor to help her with her videos, but she still likes to be hands-on. “I’ll still take another two hours to kind of go through it and make sure he didn’t take out any of my ‘personality moments.’ I don’t want it to be too boring!” she adds. “Honestly, nobody's in front of me. It's just me by myself talking to a camera. It's for fun—just me connecting with my fans.” Through her videos, Dominique has seen so much success as a beauty influencer that she has been able to launch her own makeup line: Dominique Cosmetics. She has always dreamed of creating her own brand, so when she had the opportunity to create her own products, she built them according to what she thought was missing in the industry. “[With other brands,] my brushes would dip into all the other colors—they weren't big enough for me. And the placement of the color was never right, like I would have to grab a bronze or blush and blend it in. I’d really have to get creative with it all the time,” she explains. Currently, the line consists of three eyeshadow palettes—Latte, Berries & Cream and Lemonade—four shades of lipgloss and six shades of a Cream Matte Liquid Lipstick that won’t dry out your lips. “My main reason for creating the

brand was to create something suitable for an artist as well as a makeup lover. I always wanted to create and customize [an eyeshadow palette] with a bigger pan size, which is what we have, and when you look at the palette you automatically know what you're going to do with it.” “We also just launched our lips, our permanent line, which is gonna grow into a full-color range, and they’re doing really well. They're amazing. Oh, my god,” she grins. “They are super-hydrating, fill in all the lines and when you take off this matte lip, your lips are smoother and softer than they were before.” And for anyone who’s rocked a matte lip, it’s easy to see how amazing a feat this is. Although longlasting, mattes are typically very drying, uncomfortable and have a tendency to crack. But according to Dominique, “the Cream Matte Liquid Lipsticks are nondrying and very wearable.” Watching and listening to this powerful, well-spoken woman present her work and share her story, it’s clear that Dominique has truly come into her own. From her humble, hopeful beginnings to her rise to success, there’s no doubt in our minds that the future is bright for Dominique—and we can’t wait to see what she does next. But until then, you can find her in her natural habitat doing what she does best: inspiring and motivating her fans in front of the camera. “Know that you can literally do anything you want if you just believe in yourself,” she says and flashes a brilliant, genuine smile. “And don't ever stop!”

62


SUIT PROVIDED BY: Malan Breton SHOES PROVIDED BY: ReStyled Vintage wwww.shoprestyled.com ACCESSORIES PROVIDED BY: Daniel Espinosa www.shopdanielespinosa.com

LOCALE MAGAZINE 63



SHOPPE LU X U RY / / / LI F E STY LE / / / LOVE

APRIL 2019

67

EXPERTS From Luxe Leathers to Lessening Landfills, These SoCal Makers Are Handcrafting Incredible Goods

85

SHOPPE GUIDE You’ll Want to Leave Extra Room in Your Suitcase for This Style Roadtrip

94

FASHION SPREAD Step Into the Year 3050 With These Futuristic Fashion Looks

102

94 FASHION SPREAD futurae

These Looks Are Lightyears Ahead

FEATURE The Perfect Timepiece for Every Occasion

108

PROFILE Mimi et Cie Polishes Luxury With Love

112

PROM PROJECT The Prom Project Helps High School Girls From LowIncome Families Find Their Dream Gowns SWIMSUIT PROVIDED BY: Norma Kamali www.normakamali.com JACKET PROVIDED BY: rag & bone www.rag-bone.com SHOES PROVIDED BY: Steve Madden www.stevemadden.com EARRINGS PROVIDED BY: Luv Aj www.luvaj.com SUNGLASSES PROVIDED BY: Sara Borgese Vintage

PHOTO BY: Nick Isabella

65

LOCALE MAGAZINE



S

SHOPPE

Shoppe Experts

WHAT’S YOUR CRAFT? Through Passion and Patience, These SoCal Locals Are Handcrafting Perfection

When it comes to accessories, it is imperative to pay attention to the fine details. Take a closer look and you’ll notice that accessories can not only make or break an outfit, but they also have the ability to transform and re-energize your look. What you choose and how you wear it speak volumes. So, we’ve handpicked some of the top, local accessory designers and got a chance to speak with them about their craft. Whether they’re designing handbags, custom shoes or jewelry, one thing they all have in common is their painstaking attention to detail and their own unique spin on what it means to have style.

WRITTEN BY: SABRINA AZADI PHOTOGRAPHED BY: HUNTER COLE, KAMBRIA FISCHER, NATHAN COX & MATT MISISCO LOCALE MAGAZINE 67


S

SHOPPE

Leathersmith Ray Lansburg started out with a graphic design degree but worked for many years with a master handbag maker/designer before embarking on creating his own brand, The Black Acre. His primary focus is creating men’s leather wallets in his studio—a fully renovated 1920s carriage house in his Fullerton backyard. From here, Lansburg crafts leather goods with a salt-of-the-earth sort of appeal—creating designs that have simple beauty yet are carefully constructed with meticulous detail in every stitch. And if you have been watching the new version of television hit, “MacGyver,” then you may have seen a couple of Lansburg’s goods: one of his belts was even crafted into a slingshot!

Hide and Seek

RAY LANSBURG CREDENTIALS: Designer and Founder, The Black Acre “My phantom wallet is a current favorite. It’s a long snap wallet with lots of cool subtle details inside.”

“My design philosophy is to always have a unique silhouette to every item and make goods that are fun to carry and use.”

“My main focus is men's wallets, particularly taking vintage styles, wallets you would have bought at a truck stop or swap meet, and reinventing them and decking them out with the best leather and hardware possible.”

School of Rock • Lansburg draws his style inspiration from rock and roll legends Lemmy Kilmister and Elvis Presley.

Back to Black • When asked what his favorite color is, Lansburg’s answer was simple: “Black! Come on!”

68 LOCALE MAGAZINE

Have Some Class • Lansburg’s favorite place to shop is Snake Oil Provisions in Long Beach, a shop known for its “working classic” vibes and specially-selected menswear offerings. Can’t Rush Art • “Dealing with demand is a challenge—making hand-stitched leather goods takes time.” Golden State of Mind • “California style means anything goes, really. I think the key is finding what ‘anything’ means for you.”

Photos By: Hunter Cole

THE BLACK ACRE Fullerton, CA @theblackacre

“I would say I get most of my inspiration from movies and music. A lot of it comes from just drawing until shapes work together, and good tunes facilitate that.”



S

SHOPPE

Yokishop’s philosophy stems from the Japanese term “mottainai,” a direct translation for “using the whole fish.” But for Designer Jeff Yokoyama, a veteran of clothing design for 39 years, it’s a business model.

Renew and Repurpose

JEFF YOKOYAMA CREDENTIALS: Designer, Yokishop

He creates unique clothing from existing products and materials that have been discarded in the market. Each pattern is created and each garment hand-cut and sewn in their Newport Beach studio with an aim to provide jobs and create a smaller carbon footprint. Selling directly to the customer as well as to a selection of handpicked boutiques in LA, Hawaii and Tokyo, their ethos is not only doing the right thing but also being different in the process.

Back to Vintage • “I get my inspiration from old clothing. This is a huge passion of ours as well as a huge responsibility.”

“I buy defected military shirts and jackets, from camo to khaki to just army green, and we repurpose those [materials] by putting different things on them from our other company called Mucho Aloha.”

“[My favorite item is] the beach towel hoodie. From the used beach towel, it becomes part of the body. Then I go to the Goodwill where they’re discarding tons of sweatshirts and purchase them for $2 a pound. I’ll use the sleeves, the hood, the rib, the zippers—I tear them all apart and add them onto the beach towel hoodie.”

Baked Goods • Over-production is not something that’s a part of Yokoyama’s practice. “We’re like a bakery,” he explains. “We make every day and then every day someone comes in and purchases something.”

70 LOCALE MAGAZINE

Throw in the Towel • “All these hotels use towels like it’s nobody’s business,” Yokoyama explains. “We would love to collaborate with hotels and resorts across the country and make cool beach towel hoodies for them and their gift shops.” Less Is More • “We take things that are already here, already accumulated its carbon footprint, already had three or four gallons of water usage, and instead of throwing it away... we could all work together in repurposing product rather than buying more product.”

Photos By: Hunter Cole

YOKISHOP 2429 West Coast Hwy, Ste 102 Newport Beach, CA 92663 949.351.5389 www.yokishop.com

“Across [many college campuses] there are [at least three] Starbucks. So, from the uniforms that are being discarded, we take the logos and make reusable coffee sleeves [for that campus].”



S

SHOPPE

What started as a personal project to sew a case for her laptop has now transformed into a fullfledged business. Case has a Masters in Arts Education and worked as a high school teacher for a decade before she took a leap of faith and changed careers.

Just in Case

JULIE RAIS ELLIS CREDENTIALS: Designer and Owner, Rais Case

With no formal training in sewing and design, Case found ways to use her background in art to guide her through the process that has slowly evolved into a study of quality, design and fashion. A mother of two as well as a wife, artist, traveler and conscious creator, she is passionate about designing the highest quality products that cultivate community and culture around local, handmade goods.

“My current favorite is our new zipper pouches that we are making with recycled plastic.”

“Our Vida bag is our most unique bag because it can be worn as a cross-body bag, a clutch or as a fanny pack.”

“The Vida is our signature bag, and with its birth came the true conception of our brand. ‘Vida’ means ‘life,’ intended to be worn-in by life, for life. The Vida gets softer with every use and textured by every adventure, transforming for you and aging with you.”

More Eco, Less Ego • “I’d like to expand the potential of making beautiful bags with recycled plastics,” Case explains in regards to the future of her line.

RAIS CASE 1834 S Coast Hwy Oceanside, CA 92054 info@raiscase.com www.raiscase.com 72 LOCALE MAGAZINE

“We use the best leathers, fabrics and hardware we can find. We use industrial threads and cut and sew techniques that ensure our bags last. Our bags work well for everyday use.”

Your Design in Mind • “Originally I designed for myself, but now I listen to our amazing customers and design for them.” San Diego or Bust • “I grew up in Fairfield Township, Ohio. I went to college 45 minutes from my hometown, and after graduating, went on an open-ended road trip which led me to San Diego. And I’ve been here ever since—it’s been 15 years and counting.”

Photos By: Kambria Fischer

In Agreenment • “Sage green is my favorite color because it feels calm to me.”



S

SHOPPE

Words have always had a way of helping Sarah Foster, Founder, Designer and Chief Foul Mouth of BAD BAD, overcome some of her struggles. It’s with a sense of unapologetic, foulmouthed appeal that she set out to create a jewelry brand that showed her “badass” attitude with simple explicit words and messages of encouragement.

Swearing Is Caring

SARAH FOSTER CREDENTIALS: Founder, Designer and Chief Foul Mouth, BAD BAD “My favorite design is the Desire bracelet, particularly the one that reads ‘JUST BE YOUR FUCKING SELF.’”

The uninhibited language used on her dainty jewelry presents empowerment to her and to her customers. Her jewelry is intended to be worn every day; she likes it to be reminder to persevere and be strong in whatever it is you’re going through in life—and all tinged with a tongue in cheek sense of humor that makes you proud to wear it.

“My very best work comes when I’m passionately frustrated about something whether it’s personal or something unjust in the world.”

“I want my designs to be worn by that single mom who needs something to remind her of her strength. I want my work to be loved by a group of girlfriends who all wear the same design to stay connected while they support their friend through a difficult time. I want the everyday woman who’s working towards her personal goals to wear my work to feel badass.”

Stay Gold • Much of Foster’s work comes in rose gold, silver and yellow gold, but Foster’s favorite is the latter: “[Yellow gold is] warm, reminds me of the sun, honey and youth.”

BAD BAD San Diego, CA 619.880.0260 badbadjewelry.com 74 LOCALE MAGAZINE

From Trench to Treasure • “In the beginning, I designed for professional athletes and brands like Nasty Gal and BuzzFeed. I also did commission work for multiple New York Times bestselling authors. I’m in the metaphorical life trenches with my customers and friends, so it’s easier and more real to design for them.” A Personal Touch • “I design for myself first and foremost unless it’s a custom order, of course. When it comes to creating from nothing, my best work comes from tapping into what I want to read and wear. It’s a personal process for me. I design to overcome my own internal struggles and fears.”

Photos By: Kambria Fischer

Sun-Settling Down • “[My favorite place is] any rooftop at sunset with drink in hand.”

“Being the face of the brand and putting myself out there in a way that’s honest and real but not too much has been a struggle for me. But I keep pushing myself.”



S

SHOPPE

Rodriguez completed education in fashion in Miami and began designing custom clothing for celebrities. The shift to shoemaking was a natural process that came about from the relationships he cultivated with industry leaders and factories over the years in New York. With his move to Los Angeles, he decided to turn his passion into a business and opened Shoemakers of Los Angeles.

Yes, the Shoe Fits

MIGUEL RODRIGUEZ CREDENTIALS: Footwear Developer, Designer and Manufacturer, Shoemakers of LA “I design with an uncompromising aesthetic that’s comfortable and [has an] effortless feel.”

He now helps clients nationally for their footwear development needs, focusing on domestic manufacturing and technology. Not only is he able to create and develop any design from concept to prototype with a domestic and international capacity, but he can also create dream shoes and make your shoe business dreams become a reality.

“Shoes are a mix of fashion and sculpture. They’re mysterious and intriguing, like art.”

“Right now, I am designing the next collection of Runway Heels, a convertible heel that transforms from a low wedge into a high heel with a push of a button. Its technology and design make this one of my favorite collaborations so far.”

“I develop designs from ideas to reality, manufacture unique handmade products and teach the art of shoemaking and new technologies to help create dream shoes to life.”

76 LOCALE MAGAZINE

A Nice Finish • Rodriguez’s favorite materials to work with are Turkish leathers. “The craftsmanship of the finishes on the leathers is so unique,” he says. Creative Minds Think Alike • “[I get my inspiration from] other creative minds in the art world, engineering, textile trends and my dreams from time to time.” Shoed in • “I’m a bit of an introvert,” Rodriguez says with a smile. “But I love talking about shoes.”

Photos By: Matt Misisco

SHOEMAKERS OF LA 687 Clarence St Los Angeles, CA 90023 213.260.1373 shoemakersla.com

Locating the Source • “I deconstructed old Louboutins to see how they were made.”



S

SHOPPE

Founder and Designer Analisa Jimenez of Marloe began designing leather items back in 2014 with the goal of creating the opposite of fast fashion. Believing that great design and craftsmanship shouldn’t come with a hefty price tag, she produces hand-prepped and handmade leather goods with attention to detail.

Simplicity Is Key

ANALISA JIMENEZ CREDENTIALS: Founder and Designer, Marloe

Each bag is thoughtfully designed and handmade in Marloe’s Bellflower studio and always produced in small batches in order to help reduce waste and to create unique items. A big effort goes into using the majority of each hide to reduce their carbon footprint. Whatever isn’t directly used goes into scrap bins that are then used for small leather goods and their interactive community workshops.

“Just like our products, the name Marloe is timeless and can be carried over though ever-changing styles and trends.”

“I’ve adopted the Danish philosophy of design, which is ‘Everything should have a purpose.’”

“Marloe doesn’t mean anything significant to me personally, but rather, it’s a strong yet soft name that effortlessly represents the tone of my brand. I went through many options but Marloe stood out to me and looked well graphically while being a name that’s easily memorable when introducing it to a new audience.”

[Enter Your Style Here] • “I think, especially in LA where I spend most of my time, I clearly see that California style has no single category. It’s simply a matter of having fun, and getting creative with your wardrobe choices and owning it.”

78 LOCALE MAGAZINE

It’s All in the Framework • “I get most of my inspiration from modern architecture. So many iconic modern architects have figured out how to combine simple functionality and iconic design all in one and that’s what I strive for.” Best of Both Worlds • “I split my time between LA and Long Beach. One thing I love about LA is that it’s constantly changing and evolving; there’s always something new to try. In my hometown of Long Beach, I love the quietness and the sense of community. It is currently on this evolution of foodie-meets-stylist wave—so many new restaurants to try and so many boutiques to shop at.”

Photos By: Matt Misisco

MARLOE 10145 Maple St Bellflower, CA 90706 shopmarloe.com

“Our version of the circle crossbody bag, called ‘Velita,’ evokes minimalist simplicity yet allows you to go handsfree without compromising your sense of fashion.”



S

SHOPPE

When a lady in a parking lot wanted to buy the simple leather clutch that Lili Tanner had made for herself, she knew she was onto something. That became the catalyst for what has now grown into a business. She now creates leather handbags and jewelry in her studio (open by appointment only) in Twentynine Palms, a city located in the middle of the Mojave Desert.

Mojave Musing

LILI TANNER CREDENTIALS: Handbag and Jewelry Designer, Lili T. California “It all comes out of my personal desire or need.”

Originally a writer, author and columnist, Tanner grew up in Switzerland and worked in advertising for many years before she found her true calling. Whether she is designing bags from the softest buttery leathers or making jewelry with precious metals and stones, her premise is always to create something she’d enjoy wearing first.

“I must really love the design and love wearing it. I discovered that if I’m really true to that, other people will love it too.”

“Simplicity done in a playful yet substantial way is how I would describe the jewelry. For the bags, the basis is always utilitarian simplicity with, again, a playful element be it color or a detail.”

Bought the Dream • “Diane von Fürstenberg bought two of my bags in Sun Valley, Idaho last summer. That made me happy.”

80 LOCALE MAGAZINE

Desert Oasis • “I love being swallowed by the solitary desert vastness that opens my mind in all directions and lets me be and work.” Anything Goes • What’s the epitome of California fashion for Tanner? “The simultaneousness of many different styles.”

Photos By: Nathan Cox

LILI T. CALIFORNIA 6905 Peterson Rd Twentynine Palms, CA 92277 310.508.0538 lilitcalifornia.com

When asked what her favorite item from her collection is, Tanner answered, “Always the latest one—new love and all.”



S

SHOPPE

You may be surprised to learn that it takes Shoemaker Debra Hovel about 40 hours to make a pair of custom shoes. Her avant-garde style can be described as either Marie Antoinetteinspired, complete with bows, frills and embellishments, or veer to the other side of the scale with exotic skins and contemporary shapes that look like they’d be worn sometime in the future.

One Step Ahead

DEBRA HOVEL CREDENTIALS: Designer, Maker and Founder, Debra Hovel Footwear “I prize color, unique designs and comfort that make men and women want to stride. No mincing along for me. Strong powerful movement.”

Before embarking on her career, Hovel and her husband, Richard, had a design consultancy company, which meant she had always been involved in researching trends and colors. With shoes, she took that experience and turned it into something that she was able to create with her hands—but to be worn on the feet.

“My shoes are made to wear without socks— lots of color and happy combinations. Tan, happy feet in nice leather-lined shoes are my idea of great California style.”

“I love designs with references to the past but with something unique that will make people stop and ask me where I bought those shoes. I recently made several pairs for myself that illustrate this idea.”

She’s a Natural • “Nature puts all colors and patterns together and that amuses me to do the same with shoes.” Sole-ly Yours • Hovel never designs the same pair of shoes twice. Each pair is unique.

82 LOCALE MAGAZINE

Step in Their Shoes • “Some models have worn my shoes, but I don’t court celebrities. I want to see strong, confident people, men and women, happy people, people who maybe have had pain in their feet, striding along, smiling. I love the idea that my clients tell the story of finding me, having custom handmade shoes made for them and they have a unique story to tell.” Play Matchmaker • “I want to design shoes that feature a collection of different lefts and rights to be worn together as you wish, depending on your mood and outfit. Every day a different combination, from the collection of shoes—a library of shoes that can be endlessly combined.”

Photos By: Nathan Cox

DEBRA HOVEL FOOTWEAR 1611 S Calle Palo Fierro Palm Springs, CA 92264 612.483.0993 www.debrahovelfootwear.com

“Most of my clients end up being people who buy art. They seem to understand that my shoes are functional art.”




S

SHOPPE

Get in, We’re Going

Photos - BoConcept, Rolling Greens, Detox Market, The RealReal, Violet Grey, Bliss Home & Design

Shopping

There’s a specific type of

shopper in all of us, from those who carry around a laundry list of items to those who window shop without having anything in mind—and this can change depending on the mood or day. But if you’re completely unsure of where to get a shag rug, vegan beauty products, retro sunglasses or Japanese flatware, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In the following pages, we’ve split our guide into four categories: Vintage, Home, Beauty and Lifestyle. We’ve also sprinkled in a few extra bonus goodies for you to enjoy. So what are you waiting for? Treat yourself, your wardrobe and your home to a makeover for a luxurious upgrade!

GRAB A FRIEND AND HOP IN YOUR CAR—WE’RE TAKING A STYLE ROADTRIP WRITTEN BY: DEANNA NGUYEN AND JORDAN NISHKIAN

LOCALE MAGAZINE 85


S

SHOPPE

OFF TO THE MARKET Skip the mall for your next shopping spree and support some of your local businesses at these markets:

Seaglass Beads Bliss Home & Design

Home Decor Galore

BOCONCEPT 3311 Hyland Ave, Ste B Costa Mesa, 92626 www.boconcept.com

Fave Find: Fiesta Decor • Although Artelexia is our favorite one-stop shop for all sorts of Mexican goods, we’re especially fond of their home section. From beautiful milagros to stunning stoneware plates, it’s impossible to not fall in love with this shop. ARTELEXIA 3803 Ray St San Diego, CA 92104 www.artelexia.com

"Everyday is a journey, and the journey itself is home." —Matsuo Basho

Fave Find: Assorted Pottery • Let Rolling Greens’ massive selection breathe some life into your home and garden. From exotic orchids to custom-made artificial terrariums made at the Arrangement Bar, there’s nothing short of amazing here. ROLLING GREENS 9528 Jefferson Blvd Culver City CA 90232 rollinggreensnursery.com 86 LOCALE MAGAZINE

Fave Find: Bean and Bailey Porcelain Crystal Hanging Planters • In love with that gorgeously Instagrammable backyard aesthetic? Then GROW, with its outdoor-friendly decor, on-trend accents and gorgeous selection of planters, is the perfect place for you to pick up that next must-have item. GROW 1650 Abbot Kinney Blvd Venice, CA 90291 www.growvenice.com

Fave Find: Chilewich Shag Dot Floor Mats • This shop takes all the loud, bright styles of Palm Springs and tones them down into a selection of polished, colorful

items that are palatable yet still quintessentially midcentury modern. PELAGO 901 N Palm Canyon Dr, Ste 101 Palm Springs, CA 92262 pelagopalmsprings.com

Fave Find: One-Of-A-Kind Moroccan Ourika Rug • Inside The Shops At 1345 is a stunning oasis of authentic, handmade Berber textiles imported directly from Morocco. Brightly-colored handbags, intricate runners, traditional bridal cloaks—trust us, this is something you’re going to have to see to believe! SOUKIE MODERN 1345 N Palm Canyon Dr Palm Springs, CA 92262 www.soukiemodern.com

Orange International Street Fair Orange Fall 2019 orangestreetfair.org San Diego Vintage Flea Market Northpark Fall 2019 sdvintagefleamarket. com Unique Markets DTLA | Santa Monica Spring, Summer and Winter 2019 uniquemarkets.com/ losangeles Artist & Fleas Venice Saturdays, Year-Round artistsandfleas.com/ la-venice Palm Springs Vintage Market Palm Springs First Sundays Every Month, Year-Round palmspringsvintagemarket.com

Fave Find: Dunand Coffee Table • If you have exquisite taste in home furniture and decor, then step through the double doors of Bliss Home & Design where setups for bedrooms, living rooms and dining rooms exemplify their design skills. BLISS HOME & DESIGN 3321 E Coast Hwy Corona Del Mar, CA 92625 blisshomeanddesign.com

Fave Find: Norrebro Wool Throw Blanket • Founded in 2014 by a husband and wife duo, Norden is a minimalist’s paradise. With their neutral color schemes, close attention to craft and emphasis on functionality, there’s something to outfit any home. NORDEN 1053 S Coast Hwy 101 Encinitas, CA 92024 www.nordengoods.com

NORDEN

Photos - Artelexia: Josie Gonzales | BoConcept: Photo Courtesy of BoConcept | Rolling Greens: Photo Courtesy of Rolling Greens | Norden: Photo Courtesy of Norden | Bliss Home & Design: Photo Courtesy of Bliss Home & Design

Fave Find: Hampton Sofa • Modernity and simplicity go hand-inhand at BoConcept as furniture items are crafted with the utmost attention to detail and high-quality materials. From coffee tables to swanky armchairs, you will discover a new aesthetic for your home.

OC Night Market Costa Mesa Summer 2019 ocnightmarket.com



S

SHOPPE

WE WISH YOU LUXE Here’s where to find these must-have luxury items:

Saint Jane Microdos Lip Gloss Credo Beauty

Fave Find: Vintner’s Daughter Active Botanical Serum • When it comes to skincare and makeup, take a lesson from Hollywood. Each of VIOLET GREY’s products is approved by the Violet Code—a testing process with standards set by experts in the industry. VIOLET GREY 8452 Melrose Pl West Hollywood, CA 90069 www.violetgrey.com

Agent Provocateur Saffi Body Suit DESERT HILLS PREMIUM OUTLETS premiumoutlets.com/ outlet/desert-hills

Fave Find: COOLA | Mineral Face SPF 30 Matte Tint Moisturizer • With the tagline “Inspiring self-love through clean cosmetics,” ROOTS the Beauty Underground nurtures various skin types and helps each unique individual’s beauty grow naturally. Skin, hair and makeup—your journey to a healthy, glowing look starts here! ROOTS THE BEAUTY UNDERGROUND 384 Forest Ave, Ste 9 Laguna Beach, CA 92651 rootsbeauty.com

"Confidence breeds beauty." —Estee Lauder

Fave Find: Arnica Concealer • Motivated by her own wellness journey, Founder Leah Kirpalani launched her own beauty brand in an effort to help others discover the “power of clean living” by cultivating trustworthy, healthy products. SHOP GOOD 3030 N Park Way San Diego, CA 92104 shop-good.co 88 LOCALE MAGAZINE

Fave Find: Living Hair Shampoo and Conditioner • Fresh, organic ingredients all blend together to give your body exactly what it needs—no, this isn’t a juice cleanse, it’s The Body Deli, Inc. skincare! Treat yourself with all-natural products like Blueberry Fusion Micro-Scrub or Lavender Chamomile Body Oil. THE BODY DELI, INC. 73560 El Paseo, Ste B Palm Desert, CA 92260 www.thebodydeli.com

Fave Find: Balancing Clay Exfoliant With Tea & Thyme • As soon as you walk in Qet Botanicals, you’re greeted with shelves of glass vials and a floral aroma. With skincare

products made out of plant-based ingredients, your body will undergo rejuvenation! QET BOTANICALS 223 Avenida Del Mar San Clemente, CA 92672 qetbotanicals.com

Fave Find: Herbivore Botanicals After Sun Body Mist • You’re conscious about what you put into your body, but what about what you put on to it? If you’re looking to go au naturale, look to fresh lines at H2O Closet such as Harper + Ari, Herbivore and Fazeek. H2O CLOSET 800 N Palm Canyon Dr Palm Springs, CA 92262 www.h2ocloset.com

Mattia Cielo Five-Row Bracelet in Rose Gold LEEDS & SON leedsandson.com Yellow Sapphire Mobile Butterfly Ring WINSTON’S CROWN JEWELERS www.winstonscrownjewelers.com Tibi Micro Pleated Midi Dress ATELIER 7918 www.atelier7918.com Rose Gold 18K Ribbon Earrings IRENE NEUWIRTH FINE JEWELRY ireneneuwirth.com Round Brilliant Cut Tennis Bracelet DAVID & SONS FINE JEWELERS www.davidandsonsjewelers.com In2Designs Black Pearl Earrings SIGI’S BOUTIQUE www.sigislajolla.com

Fave Find: Goop Himalayan Salt Scalp Scrub • A leader in clean beauty, all products carried by Credo have to meet The Credo Clean Standard; no “dirty” ingredients such as aluminum, animal by-products and phthalates, no surprises and absolutely no animal cruelty. CREDO BEAUTY 4305 La Jolla Village Dr, Ste 2460 San Diego, CA 92122 www.credobeauty.com

Fave Find: Los Feliz Botanicals Huntington Eau de Parfum • Whether you have sensitive skin or you are just looking for a more natural, sustainable beauty regimen, Detox Market has an array of organic goodies for you to choose from. DETOX MARKET 1231 Montana Ave Santa Monica, CA 90403 www.thedetoxmarket.com

DETOX MARKET

Photos - Violet Grey: Photo Courtesy of Violet Grey | ROOTS the Beauty Underground: Elizabeth Ann Photography | Credo Beauty: Photo Courtesy of Credo Beauty | The Detox Market: Photo Courtesy of The Detox Market | Shop Good: Natasha Boote Photography

Beauty Revamp Your Routine



S

SHOPPE

Lifestyle A Little Bit of Everything Leather Necklace Zense

THE REALREAL 1901 Avenue of the Stars, Ste 300 Los Angeles, CA 90067 www.therealreal.com

Fave Find: Rope Chain Necklace • Full of unique finds from local and global artists, Zense has two incredible galleries for you to stop by and add an eccentric piece to your home or wardrobe. ZENSE 73255 El Paseo, Ste 20 Palm Desert, CA 92260 www.zensecollection.com

HAVE PASSPORT, WILL SHOP High fashion makes for the best souvenirs from these global cities: Paris Triangle D’Or Rome Quadrilatero d’Oro Tokyo Tokyo Ginza Ward Seoul Gangnam District London Bond Street

"Life isn't about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself." —George Bernard Shaw

Fave Find: Rustic Modern Planters • No matter what sort of ceramic style you’re into, Brian Bosworth can create it. From his signature Rustic Modern style pottery to his brightly-colored tiles, BKB Ceramics has a little something for everyone. BKB CERAMICS 61705 CA-62 Joshua Tree, CA 92252 bkbceramics.bigcartel.com 90 LOCALE MAGAZINE

Fave Find: Japanese Ceramic Tableware • Born out of wanting to share their favorite Japanese products from their yearly travels, it's clear to see that every item has been selected by Darrell Baum and Osamu Sagara with love. WABI SABI JAPAN LIVING 258 N Palm Canyon Dr Palm Springs, CA 92262 wabisabijapanliving.com

Fave Find: Reina Del Bosque Print by Gustavo Rimada • An amazing spot located in the heart of the Barrio Logan Arts District, Simón Limón is a showroom featuring an incredible collection of works from

local artists and designers. There’s never been a better opportunity to support your local makers! SIMÓN LIMÓN 2185 Logan Ave San Diego, CA 92113 www.shopsimonlimon.com

Fave Find: Terra Cotta Hanging Planters • Tucked away in a compact storefront lies everything you need to turn your home into a desert oasis. With its abundant selection of rare cacti and plant containers, the Cactus Store is a garden guru’s paradise. CACTUS STORE 1505 1/2 Echo Park Ave Los Angeles, CA 90026 www.hotcactus.la

Fave Find: Broken Top Candle Company Linen Spray • There’s something about a store that carries everything from lip balm and scarves to baby onesies and tea kettles that just makes our heart sing. Kiko and Sven has everything you didn’t know you needed...and then some! KIKO AND SVEN 3723 Adams Ave San Diego, CA 92116 www.kikoandsven.com

Fave Find: Floral Memo Pad • Nestled in Old Town Tustin, Sugar Press is where Chrissy Teigen got her wedding invitations done. The cute, stationery boutique displays cards and invitations made out of an assortment of paper for a classic, quality touch! SUGAR PRESS 145 W First St, Ste A Tustin, CA 92780 www.sugar-press.com

Fave Find: Joven Classic Crew Socks • Socks galore! Whether you’re looking for athletic, comfortable or just fun and uniquely designed socks, Stance’s collection is worth stopping in your tracks. Their graphic t-shirts are stylish and made for the adventurer. STANCE 839 Spectrum Center Dr Irvine, CA 92618 www.stance.com

Johannesburg Sandton City Buenos Aires Galerias Pacifico Dubai Dubai Shopping Mall

Photos - BKB Ceramics: Jane Chouteau | Stance: Photo Courtesy of Stance | Zense: Photos Courtesy of Zense & Joe Capraro | Sugar Press: Photo Courtesy of Sugar Press | The RealReal: Photo Courtesy of The RealReal

Fave Find: Louis Vuitton x Supreme Red Epi Leather Keepall Bandoulière 45 • Leave the guesswork out of it when shopping consignment. The RealReal’s luxury consignment office is chock-full of authenticated, exclusive, high-quality designer items such as kid’s Christian Dior Oxfords or a men’s Burberry jacket.



S

SHOPPE

Vintage Discovering the Decades

THE FINE ART OF DESIGN 73717 Hwy 111 Palm Desert, CA 92260 www.thefineartofdesign.com

Selvedge Dry Goods En Route in: OC and LA www.selvedgedrygoods.com

Fave Find: Hermes Leather Belt With Gold H Buckle • Timeless treasures, classic chic and retrofabulous fashion all come together under the roof of What Goes Around Comes Around. If you’re looking for authenticity and collectibility, you’ve come to the right place. WHAT GOES AROUND COMES AROUND 9520 Brighton Way Beverly Hills, CA 90210 whatgoesaroundnyc.com

"Elegance is the only beauty that never fades."—Audrey Hepburn

Fave Find: Leopard Print Coat • True vintage comes from quality and rarity. At Swellegant, exclusive finds range from colorfully-patterned shirts and dresses to timeless accessories; there’s an item worth catching your attention in every corner.

SWELLEGANT VINTAGE 3409 Newport Blvd Newport Beach, CA 92663 swellegantvintageclothing.com 92 LOCALE MAGAZINE

Fave Find: Retro Sunglasses • Swing and jazz music invites you to Elsewhere Vintage where flapper dresses hang on the walls and glass display cases show off dazzling rings, watches and bracelets. Dapper Day outfits are abundant! ELSEWHERE VINTAGE 105 W Chapman Ave Orange, CA 92866 @elsewherevintage

Fave Find: ‘60s “Catalina” Playsuit • If you’re looking to amp up your green shopping game, Frock You Vintage is a great place to start. You may enter with an urge to browse, but there’s no

doubt in our minds that you’ll be leaving with a piece of history. FROCK YOU VINTAGE 4121 Park Blvd San Diego, CA 92103 www.frockyouvintage.com

Fave Find: 1970s Roncelli Two-Piece • Whether you like to dabble with band tees or your closet looks like a time capsule from the ‘70s, La Loupe Vintage has a little something for everyone who’s looking for that rock’n’roll sort of edge. LA LOUPE VINTAGE 3337 Adams Ave San Diego, CA, 92116 www.laloupevintage. squarespace.com/home

Popsikle Shop En Route in: OC and LA popsikleshop.com

Freehand Boutique En Route in: Los Angeles freehandboutique.com Sugar and Spiked Boutique En Route in: Los Angeles www.sugarandspikedbeautique.com Wear on Wheels En Route in: Los Angeles wearonwheels.com Le Fashion Truck En Route in: Los Angeles lefashiontruck.com Therapie En Route in: San Diego therapieboutique.com Kitty James En Route in: San Diego @lovekittyjames

Fave Find: Designer Handbags • No matter what decade or designer you’re looking for, The Way We Wore is THE destination for exquisite, high-end vintage wear. Looking for inspo? Make an appointment to explore Owner Doris Raymond’s personal resource library. THE WAY WE WORE 334 S La Brea Ave Los Angeles, CA 90036 www.thewaywewore.com

Fave Find: Midcentury Furniture • Whether you’re looking for clothing or furniture, when you see the expansive selection of resale finds at Revivals, you’ll know why it’s such a local favorite! Plus, shopping here helps support client services at Desert AIDS Project. REVIVALS 611 S Palm Canyon Dr Palm Springs, CA 92264 revivalsstores.com

REVIVALS

Photos - The Fine Art of Design: Zoe Michelle | What Goes Around Comes Around: Photo Courtesy of What Goes Around Comes Around | Swellegant Vintage: Photo Courtesy of Swellegant Vintage | The Way We Wore: Adam Gentry | Revivals: Dean Mayo

Fave Find: Vintage Gowns • From stacks of pillbox hats to a colorcoordinated wall of luxurious womenswear, The Fine Art of Design has everything you could possibly need to give your wardrobe a midcentury pop.

THE WHEEL DEAL Where to find these boutiques on wheels:



SWIMSUIT PROVIDED BY: Norma Kamali www.normakamali.com JACKET PROVIDED BY: rag & bone www.rag-bone.com SHOES PROVIDED BY: Steve Madden www.stevemadden.com EARRINGS PROVIDED BY: Luv Aj www.luvaj.com SUNGLASSES PROVIDED BY: Sara Borgese Vintage

94 LOCALE MAGAZINE


e a r

u t u

f

TH

LO E S E

O

AR KS

IG E L

E HTY

ARS

E AH

AD

MAK R & HAI

AU ER M

EUP

B Y:

ANI

YT SHLE

&A

IF

STY

PHO

TOG

HE RAP

: D BY

LED

B Y:

JENN E

ES ORG B A R

SA

ELLA

SAB ICK I

N

MO DEL S:

ALEX BOLDEA, DOMINIQUE

BRAND MODEL & TALENT JANE AND TATIANA NUNN OF

t.net AGENCY, www.brandtalen

LOCALE MAGAZINE 95


TOP PROVIDED BY: Milly www.milly.com SKIRT PROVIDED BY: Morphine @morphine_fashion BOOTS PROVIDED BY: Jeffrey Campbell www.jeffreycampbellshoes.com RINGS PROVIDED BY: Audry Rose www.loveaudryrose.com EARRINGS PROVIDED BY: Sara Borgese Vintage

96 LOCALE MAGAZINE


LOCALE MAGAZINE 97


DRESS PROVIDED BY: Paula Knorr www.paulaknorr.uk TOP PROVIDED BY: Zara www.zara.com PANTIES PROVIDED BY: Spanx www.spanx.com SOCKS PROVIDED BY: Wolford www.wolfordshop.com SHOES PROVIDED BY: Enrico Cuini www.enricocuini.com JEWELRY PROVIDED BY: Ippolita www.ippolita.com

98 LOCALE MAGAZINE


LOCALE MAGAZINE 99


DRESS PROVIDED BY: by the way. www.revolve.com TOP PROVIDED BY: Zara www.zara.com SHOES PROVIDED BY: Steve Madden www.stevemadden.com BELT PROVIDED BY: Alexander McQueen www.alexandermcqueen.com EARRINGS PROVIDED BY: Sara Borgese Vintage

100 LOCALE MAGAZINE


LOCALE MAGAZINE 101


S

S H O P P E / / / A B O U T FA C E !

Tourneau’s Watches Stand the Test of Time

Hand Figurine Hi Sweetheart Mini Chess Set Pigment

Turquoise Retro Phone Pigment

Assorted Fine Pens Pigment

Pink and Green Quartz Pigment

Assorted Fine Pens Pigment

Succulent Monochromatic Tea Towel Pigment

WATCH IT, BUDDY To keep your watch in its best working order, Tourneau suggests avoiding these four things: sudden shocks or impacts, extreme temperatures, magnetic fields and chemical contact.

Manero Flyback Watch by Carl F. Bucherer Tourneau

From its rose gold case to its crocodile leather straps, the Manero Flyback oozes a timeless charm. The silver-grey detailing on the dial adds a sort of effortless masculinity without overpowering the warmth of the gold or the deep chocolate hues of the straps. Ideal for the man who is precise and a bit of a workaholic, this classic timepiece looks as great with a suit as it does with the sleeves rolled up. 102 LOCALE MAGAZINE

“Alpha Doodler” Book Hi Sweetheart

“Stay Sharp” Pencils Hi Sweetheart

Assorted Fine Pens Pigment CRYSTAL CLEAR As reported by Tourneau, since sapphire is the second-hardest known element, using it as the watch crystal makes for an extremely scratch-resistant surface.

For the Traditionalist This Wristwatch Is a Style Staple for Days in the Office as Well as Nights on the Town

Cactus Pigment

Tourneau 3333 Bristol St, Costa Mesa, CA 92626 714.850.0222 tourneau.com Pigment shoppigment.com Hi Sweetheart hi-sweets.com sparkle + toast {EVENTS} sparkleandtoast.com WRITTEN BY: JORDAN NISHKIAN PHOTOGRAPHED BY: DAVID ALONZO HERNANDEZ STYLED BY: DEVON RIESENBERG AND FELA BARNETT



S

S H O P P E / / / A B O U T FA C E !

Garden Party Backpack Hi Sweetheart

Tourneau’s Watches Stand the Test of Time

Floral Planner Pigment

Exuding classic, subtle elegance with a hint of glam, the Pathos Diva is ideal for the woman who’s always on-the-go. With a stunning case of stainless steel lined with 54 diamonds, this wristwatch adds a touch of effortless sparkle and shine to any outfit. It’s a truly stunning tribute to a strong yet feminine beauty that would make the perfect addition to any lady’s everyday look.

Assorted Quartz Pigment

Pathos Diva Watch by Carl F. Bucherer Tourneau

TIME TO NOT WIND Tourneau notes that watches with an automatic movement (such as the Pathos Diva) wind themselves while being worn, thus eliminating the need for manual winding. However, they will need to be hand-wound if not worn for some time. Glass Coasters sparkle + toast {EVENTS}

Macrame Plant Hanger Pigment

Daisy Sunglasses Pigment

SWISS, PLEASE One of Switzerland’s leading watch brands, Carl F. Bucherer expertly manufactures each timepiece in Lengnau, Switzerland and is one of few Swiss watch manufacturers to still be owned by its original family.

For the Free Spirit

Harney + Sons Green Tea Tin Pigment

This Ladies’ Watch Lets Her Take a Little Sparkle Wherever She Goes

Sunglasses Framable Print Hi Sweetheart Mini Woven Baskets Pigment

104 LOCALE MAGAZINE

Tourneau 3333 Bristol St, Costa Mesa, CA 92626 714.850.0222 tourneau.com Pigment shoppigment.com Hi Sweetheart hi-sweets.com sparkle + toast {EVENTS} sparkleandtoast.com WRITTEN BY: JORDAN NISHKIAN PHOTOGRAPHED BY: DAVID ALONZO HERNANDEZ STYLED BY: DEVON RIESENBERG AND FELA BARNETT



S

S H O P P E / / / A B O U T FA C E !

Tourneau’s Watches Stand the Test of Time

“San Diego Surf Spot” Framable Print Hi Sweetheart

UNDER PRESSURE According to Tourneau, no watch is waterproof— there are limits to what the piece can handle without cracking and, consequently, leaking. Therefore, a watch’s waterresistance refers to how much water pressure the watch can withstand.

Wooden Surfboard Cutting Board sparkle + toast {EVENTS}

For the Adrenaline Junkie

Wagon Model Toys Pigment

From Free-Falling to ShotCalling, This Sports Watch Is Perfect for Any Adventure

Malibu Lifeguard Tower Pigment

HOROLOGICAL HISTORY The first waterresistant watch is said to be the Rolex Oyster, made in 1927. The Oyster was then put to the test by a young British woman named Mercedes Gleitze, who took a chilly, 10-hour swim in the English Channel. Both Gleitze and the Oyster survived the swim in perfect working order!

106 LOCALE MAGAZINE

Rugged yet sleek, the Patravi ScubaTec is ready for anything. Made for the guy who’s always looking for an adventure, this wristwatch is water-resistant for up to 500 meters, making it ideal for all thrillseekers by land or by sea. Plus, the deep blue dial and stainless steel case material make for an easy transition from morning surfs to business luncheons with minimal effort.

Patravi ScubaTec Watch by Carl F. Bucherer Tourneau

Tourneau 3333 Bristol St, Costa Mesa, CA 92626 714.850.0222 tourneau.com Pigment shoppigment.com Hi Sweetheart hi-sweets.com sparkle + toast {EVENTS} sparkleandtoast.com “Under the Sea” Lidded Decorative Jar sparkle + toast {EVENTS}

WRITTEN BY: JORDAN NISHKIAN PHOTOGRAPHED BY: DAVID ALONZO HERNANDEZ STYLED BY: DEVON RIESENBERG AND FELA BARNETT



S

SHOPPE

love i

ils eta

h t e n i d s

MESHELL “MIMI” SOHL IS THE AUDREY HEPBURN OF JEWELRY WRITTEN BY: ANNIE KIM PHOTOGRAPHED BY: CHARLIE CHIPMAN

108 LOCALE MAGAZINE


“I want people to feel like they’ve come home at Mimi et Cie. I want them to feel like they’ve entered a world that is not stressful, not cluttered. It’s just a calm and soothing experience.” –MESHELL “MIMI” SOHL

MIMI ET CIE 696 E Colorado Blvd, Ste 7 Pasadena, CA 91101 626.628.0880 www.mimietciejewels.com LOCALE MAGAZINE 109


S

SHOPPE

Spread the Love

Heart and Sohl

Meet Meshell “Mimi” Sohl. She is the Founder and Owner of Mimi et Cie, a French-inspired jewelry boutique comfortably nestled in the quaint and charming Pasadena Playhouse District. With decades of industry knowledge and a zest for life that’s rarely encountered, Sohl is redefining the luxury experience in the realm of high-end jewelry. From miniscule details to seeing the big picture, Sohl spends countless hours planning every inch of the shop to ensure that her clients receive the highest quality of care in their Mimi experience. You can bet that each sparkle is accompanied with a whole lot of love!

M

110 LOCALE MAGAZINE

• Sohl doesn’t leave the house without wearing her platinum channel-set diamond bracelet that was gifted by her husband, Nelson A. Holdo, who is an exceptional private jeweler.

“I touch every single piece of jewelry that comes into this store before I buy it.” –MESHELL “MIMI” SOHL

• Sohl is a born and raised Pasadena native. She is passionate about giving back to her community in various forms of charity work. “I spread the love in all the ways I can,” says Sohl.

“Love is in the details”–a motto Sohl lives by professionally and personally. At Mimi et Cie, you may find a few chic necklaces with rare Tahitian pearls or one 6.35-carat, pristine yellow diamond ring on display, but there’s no shortage on love. Despite being a partner with some of the most prestigious jewelry brands in the world– Mikimoto, Roberto Coin and Parmigiani Fleurier to name a few–jewelry isn’t the first thing you notice when entering Mimi et Cie. To your right, you’ll be greeted with a delectable assortment of seasonal candy in various, elongated vases waiting to be enjoyed. The boutique’s Parisianesque designs and walls colored in a custom blend of cool blue with notes of pastel, known as the “Mimi Blue," will immediately make you feel welcomed and relaxed. After years of perfecting her craft as a jeweler while climbing the ranks of management and working for a large established jewelry store, Sohl felt that it didn’t need to be grandeur to sell a half-a-million-dollar piece. “It needs to be something that everyone feels comfortable coming to. I want people to feel like they’ve come home at Mimi et Cie,” shares Sohl. “I want them to feel like they’ve entered a world that is not stressful, not cluttered. It’s just a calm and soothing experience.” The idea to redefine the true luxury experience dawned on Sohl when she was in Paris in 2002. She was


Moments Unwrapped

• Every Christmas morning, right before Sohl and her family begin opening presents, she’ll announce, “Okay everyone, stop! Now think of all the presents that are opened by Mimi et Cie and what’s happening in those moments.”

exclusively handpicked by Cartier–one of the most distinguished jewelry manufacturers–to visit their design center in France and train at their watch school in Switzerland.

the feeling–the blissful feeling of adoration and appreciation that stirs in the lucky person who opens a gift personally handpicked with every detail catered to suit the receiver’s lifestyle and taste.

Mimi et Cie–Sohl’s vision to combine luxury and love–came to life on Nov. 1, 2010, and has become a safe haven for her clients, whom she calls her second family. Sohl’s clients, who are all referralbased, will come in throughout the year, not even to buy jewelry, but to hang out and wind down with their favorite drink.

“I had a client call me and say I’m not doing jewelry this year, but I need a cactus. I let them know I’ve got it covered,” explains Sohl. “If it’s not jewelry, I still want them to give her something that she’s gonna be thrilled about!” Sohl’s genuine passion to do what’s best for her clients is the reason why they trust Mimi et Cie to find a jewelry piece that captures the importance of all their crucial life milestones.

“We do a lot of business with men who are buying for their significant other, hence the alcohol,” explains Sohl. A two-story, rusted gold stand occupies the corner closest to Sohl’s office and is where her regulars will find their favorite drink: the Macallan 12, WhistlePig 10, Grey Goose Vodka and so on. In her office awaits a wet bar stocked with Perrier, Champagne and a secret stash of Coors Light (a preferred drink for one of her clients). “It’s an interesting thing what we do–we start with these clients and we watch them get married, have kids and sometimes, there’s tears in this office, sometimes there’s laughter in this office,” shares Sohl. “We pour our hearts and souls into every single interaction, and there weren’t lots during our humble beginnings, but every single one was handled with white gloves and filled with love.” For Sohl, it has never been about selling jewelry; money is never the motivation. It’s all about

But if the occasion calls for gifting jewelry, which is almost always the case, clients can rest assured that Mimi et Cie only partners with brands that adhere to the highest standards of quality. “I touch every single piece of jewelry that comes into this store before I buy it,” shares Sohl. During the inspection phase, she takes on the perspective of her clients and runs each piece of jewelry through a series of tests for design and aesthetics to material and packaging. “It’s the best job,” raves Sohl. “I love people. I think people for the most part are so good and so kind.” And love is the steady heartbeat of Sohl’s that brings joy into the homes of her clients and keeps them coming back again and again to visit Mimi et Cie. After all, love is in the details. “The littlest details,” adds Sohl. LOCALE MAGAZINE 111


SHOPPE

S

A Prom to Remember THE YWCA OF NORTH ORANGE COUNTY’S PROMPOSAL IS A DREAM COME TRUE WRITTEN BY: DEANNA NGUYEN PHOTOGRAPHED BY: LUIS GARCIA Many high school girls dream about the perfect prom, but some don’t have the luxury of spending hundreds of dollars on dresses, shoes, hair and makeup. For 16-year-old Perla Gomez, who had only been living in America for less than a year, a true prom experience seemed out of reach. But when she signed up to volunteer for the YWCA of North Orange County, her newfound life received all the glitz and glam for one very special day.

M

In 2007, CEO of the YWCA of North Orange County Diane Masseth-Jones created the Prom Project to provide new and gently-used dresses for girls who come from low-income families. On a specific spring date, 25 girls are chosen as recipients of Boutique Day; they get to pick out their dresses, have their hair and makeup done by professionals, and dance, eat, drink and socialize like any other prom. Gomez had many dreams—study hard in school and get a job to help her dad—but going to prom was one she didn’t expect to come true. When she heard about the project from Masseth-Jones and Chairman Rosamaria GomezAmaro as a volunteer, she applied and was chosen as a recipient.

112

LOCALE MAGAZINE

Boutique Day for Gomez was fun, but she couldn’t help but freak out a little with all of the dress options. “I came to get my dress but it was really hard because I looked at a lot of dresses and was like [gasp], ‘Oh my god!’” Gomez recalled. The dress she ended up choosing was a bright orange quinceañera gown. Throughout the day, Gomez enjoyed every aspect. She couldn’t help but compare the dance party to the ones back home in Mexico. That being said, she passed along word about the Prom Project to her relatives. “I have my two cousins; they don’t have a lot of opportunities, so they decided it would be a really good opportunity for them because they can’t have parties like this.” The YWCA of North Orange County still means a lot to Gomez. To her, they’re an organization of opportunities. “They [taught] me a lot of things—I learned more English because when I came, I didn’t speak any English and I tried to speak. They helped me.”

To All the Boys • Prom Boutique Day has since only gathered gowns for the chosen girls, but the nonprofit organization is now considering branching out with suits for the boys. It’s not a prom without a date! Shop ‘Til You Drop • The Prom Project volunteers become “personal shoppers” for the girls. They help them choose a dress and suggest how to get their hair and makeup done. Sharing in Confidence • The YWCA of North Orange County reaches out to over 250 high school counselors across all of Orange County to get the word out about the Prom Project. Counselors discreetly pass on the information to girls who might be embarrassed about revealing their socioeconomic status.

Prom goes beyond borders, and for Gomez, she transformed into a more beautiful, stronger version of herself that would echo in other young girls like her. Photoshoot Location: YWCA OF NORTH ORANGE COUNTY 215 E Commonwealth Ave Fullerton, CA 92832 714.871.4488 www.ywcanoc.org




FOODIE W H ISK EY / / / W I N G S / / / W I N E

APRIL 2019

116

FIRST BITE Louie’s by the Bay Gives a Delicious First Impression

118

EPIC WINGS Things Are Getting Saucy at Epic Wings

134

MEALS DECONSTRUCTED Some Like It Hot

For Chef Blake Mellgren, That’s Just How the Biscuit Crumbles

121

EXPERTS Mixologists Go Head-To-Head With Seasonal Ingredients

130

TWO THINGS WE LOVE URBANA’s Making Tacos With a Twist

132

THE HOBBIT Select, Sip and Savor at The Hobbit’s Wine Cellar

134

MEALS DECONSTRUCTED Craft House Is Giving a Southern Classic a California Kick

138

NIRVANA GRILLE Chef Smith-Rosales Shares the Perfect Wine Pairing for Each Plate

CRAFT HOUSE 34094 Pacific Coast Hwy Dana Point, CA 92629 949.481.7734 www.eatatcrafthouse.com PHOTO BY: Rod Foster

115

LOCALE MAGAZINE


FOODIE

F

1st

BITE

The Flavors of Bellissimo

FA L L I N LO V E AT F I R S T B I T E W I T H LO U I E ’ S B Y T H E B AY

For Ron Salisbury, Louie’s by the Bay is more than a restaurant; it’s a celebration. Named after Salisbury’s old friend, Louis Zamperini, the famed Olympic track athlete whose story inspired the film Unbroken, the Italian eatery was created in collaboration with Piero Selvaggio and is the latest addition to Salisbury’s edible empire. Salisbury and Selvaggio wanted a restaurant that could bring the community together, and they succeeded. By their visions, Louie’s by the Bay is an upscale joint for locals by locals, and effortlessly blends old-school hospitality with new-age vibes.

F

WRITTEN BY: JANE ADLER • PHOTOGRAPHED BY: CELINE HAEBERLY

WHAT’S IN A NAME? • Salisbury signs his name above the door at every restaurant he owns, saying that when he sees it, it serves as a personal reminder: “My name’s on the front door—don’t mess it up.”

Upon entering the seaside steakhouse, you are rewarded with a sweeping vista of harbor views visible from almost any seat in the space. The aromas wafting out of the open kitchen are almost as intoxicating as The Louie Martini itself, transporting diners to the rolling hills of Tuscany and the straits of Sicily.

• Costa Mesa-based interior design company, Hatch, constructed, curated and modeled Louie’s by the Bay after Ralph Lauren’s beach house.

PRICE • Guests can enjoy cocktails starting at $13 and indulge in generous main courses starting at $24.

Hungry for something heartier? The Mandilli Handkerchief Pasta enveloped in creamy pesto is sure to make even the most carbconscious customers forget their dietary

devotions. Silky sheets of pasta are delicately divided into ribbons, cooked until al dente and enrobed in a blanket of basil goodness. This luscious yet light dish is divine in all the right ways. When your carb hangover kicks in, opt for the Eggplant Parmigiana— because every vegetable deserves to be swaddled in a sheet of melted cheese. And we know you left a little bit of room for something sweet! Look no further than the traditional, pistachio and Limoncello tiramisu trio that’ll have you living la dolce vita. Chef Orlando infuses mascarpone cheese with pistachio and Limoncello to compliment the classic creation for double the flavor and triple the fun. Prego! But seriously, pray you go! LOCALE MAGAZINE

• Louie’s by the Bay’s menu is a delicious celebration of authentic Italian cuisine with a California twist.

DECOR

The menu contains all of the classics with a contemporary twist. Head Chef Antonio Orlando proudly explains that his dishes are 90 percent authentic and 10 percent customized to the customer to ensure that all cravings are curbed. Kickstart your courses with some imported Italian delicacies. Some fan favorites? Aged Prosciutto di Parma serves as the petals accessorizing a bud of fresh burrata. An amuse-bouche of assorted olives will tickle your taste buds and have you saying, “Bellissimo” while kissing your forefingers.

116

FOOD

VERDICT • Louie’s by the Bay checks all the boxes: camaraderie, cocktails and culinary delights.

LOUIE’S BY THE BAY 2801 West Coast Hwy Newport Beach, CA 92663 949.720.1800 www.louiesnewport.com



F

FOODIE

Native Knowledge • The breadsticks at Epic Wings are to die for! Every 15 minutes they bake fresh new bread. Breadsticks and chicken wings are an EPIC culinary combination every foodie must try.

Wingin’ It IT’S ALWAYS FRESH, NEVER FROZEN AT EPIC WINGS WRITTEN BY: ANNIE KIM • PHOTOGRAPHED BY: JOSIE GONZALES

Chicken wings are made for gathering, and at Epic Wings, the 35-year-old family-owned establishment’s main priority is to foster community and bring people together over a delicious plate of juicy wings. With over 20 thriving Epic Wings locations, they continue their reign over the wings empire with the launch of their franchising opportunities this past year. Their success is credited to their motto– epicly fresh, never frozen.

C

Spread Their Wings • In 1982, the Sacco family packed up their oldsmobile and moved from New York to California to pursue the American Dream. They opened the first Epic Wings-N-Things in Pacific Beach, San Diego.

To top it all off, their collection of homemade sauces are dripping with the highest quality ingredients.

From their Original Buffalo Wings to Tenderloin Strips to oven-fresh breadsticks, every item on their menu is created in-house and crafted with flair. “One of our biggest attributes that makes us different from our competitors and the franchising space is that we don’t even have freezers in our kitchen,” shared Julia Baker, Epic Wings’ Director of Marketing and self-proclaimed buffalo wing connoisseur. “Everything is literally fresh, never frozen.” To top it all off, their collection of homemade sauces are dripping with the highest quality ingredients. With spicy level options ranging from mild, medium, hot and extra hot, their Original Buffalo sauce is a secret family recipe perfected to formulate the truest of true buffalo sauce. But Epic Wings isn’t afraid to experiment with their flavors. The Garlic Parmesan and Honey BBQ sauces are fan favorites! For an authentic Italian twist, their Garlic Parmesan sauce is the way to go, and the sweet and savory flavor of their Honey BBQ sauce is bound to jazz up any dish. You have to try their Sweet Chili on their freshly-baked pizza sticks topped with oozing mozzarella—it’s a musttry favorite for Baker. Their Lemon Pepper dry rub is the perfect combination of refreshing lemon zest and pepper earthiness. “Lemon Pepper on the bone-in chicken wing is the absolute best. It’s the flavors of a summer day in your mouth,” exclaimed Baker.

Photoshoot Location: EPIC WINGS | SAN DIEGO 2315 Otay Lakes Rd Chula Vista, CA 91915 619.216.3000 EPIC WINGS | MISSION VIEJO 28621 Marguerite Pkwy, Ste B6 Mission Viejo, CA 92692 949.481.0999 www.epicwingsnthings.com @epic.wings 118 LOCALE MAGAZINE

Sauce Boss • At Epic Wings, you can mix and match your sauces. Add hot sauce to the Sweet Chili for a Buffalo Sweet Chili!

An Epic Empire • Epic Wings is owned and operated by the Sacco family, six siblings that each manage individual locations. The stores are currently run by the second and third generation of the Sacco family.




F

FOODIE

Raising

THE BAR

Local Mixologists Show off Their Take on Seasonal Ingredients

WRITTEN BY: ERICA JOHNSON PHOTOGRAPHED BY: DAVI D ALONZO H ER NANDEZ, ED VI S I ONS , L EE WALTER S & J EN STR OM AN Competitions grow fierce when some of the top mixologists in Orange County face off to bring you the most delicious and innovative concoctions ever designed featuring these simple yet flavorful ingredients: blackberries, cinnamon and tea. Once you see what they have come up with, there’s no doubt that you will be inspired to grab your friends and enjoy an evening out with one (or all!) of these delectable creations.

LOCALE MAGAZINE 121


F

FOODIE Battle #

1

Berry on Top

E AT T H I S W I T H T H AT • Sandoval believes the perfect pairing for Heaven Can Wait is the Tanner’s Fried Calamari. “The apricot jam breaks through the spice notes of the rum and the coconut milk cools your palate after a bite of the Sriracha, Shishito or Fresno Peppers.” CALIFORNIA LOVE

HEAVEN CAN WAIT INGREDIENTS

• Sandoval was born in New York but moved to Mexico City with his mom at four years old. Returning to the US in 2012, Miguel came to California and “fell in love with it. It was the perfect balance between cultures in a paradisiac location. Immediately, I got myself a job in a restaurant and I haven’t had a bad day in this industry.”

• Blackberries • Trinidad Rum • Extra Dry Vermouth • Creme de Cacao • Citrus • Coconut Milk • Demerara Sugar TANNER’S RESTAURANT | TREEHOUSE ROOFTOP BAR 21080 Pacific Coast Hwy Huntington Beach, CA 92648 714.698.6130 www.tannershb.com

The EXPERT

MIGUEL SANDOVAL

Lead Mixologist at Tanner’s Restaurant | Treehouse Rooftop Bar

S TA I R WAY T O H E AV E N Heaven Can Wait is a favorite of Sandoval. “This drink steps outside of the traditional way to craft/mix a cocktail. By using unique ingredients, we are able to achieve wild, refreshing flavors that balance out the mellow sweetness, citric, spice and aromatics from the spirits.” 122 LOCALE MAGAZINE

KEEP YOUR SECRETS Sandoval likes to surprise the guests at Tanner’s with “an unexpected cocktail experience that is not on the menu during our Thursday Mixology Night or when they ask for a Bartender’s Choice.”

BRANCHING OUT Tanner’s Treehouse is a gorgeous rooftop bar with sweeping ocean views, fire pits and swinging chairs located atop the Pasea Hotel and Spa.


Heaven Can Wait

VS.

Punta Negra Margarita

E AT T H I S W I T H T H AT

Photos By: Ed Visions

• “The fresh fish, tequila citrus vinaigrette and pineapple pico de gallo [of the Acapulco Ceviche] go well with the spicy, citrus flavors of the Punta Negra. The Pork Belly Tacos also work beautifully because the taco is savory and a little bit sweet and the Fresno chilis compliment the sweet and spicy Margarita.”

PUNTA NEGRA MARGARITA INGREDIENTS • Muddled Blackberries • Fresh Jalapeño • Sauza Blue Tequila • Sweet n’ Sour • Fresh Pineapple Juice

A FA M I LY A F FA I R • Twardowski has been in the industry for 25 years, bartending and managing several popular restaurants in Orange County and has spent 14 years with the Mahe and Ola family establishments. PIER REVIEW • Ola Mexican Kitchen serves authentic and unique Mexican food while giving patrons views of the ocean and the iconic Huntington Beach Pier from almost every seat in the house.

OLA MEXICAN KITCHEN 21040 Pacific Coast Hwy, F200 Huntington Beach, CA 92648 714.969.7300 www.olamexicankitchen.com

The EXPERT

ZACH TWARDOWSKI Mixologist and Bar Manager at Ola Mexican Kitchen

S W E E T, S P I C E , E V E RY T H I N G N I C E Every Mexican restaurant has margaritas, but the Punta Negra Margarita, a delicious concoction served at Ola Mexican Kitchen, is totally unique and “a little bit spicy, a little bit sweet.” Twardoski adds, “The Punta Negra is one of our more delicious and refreshing margaritas. We love the color from the muddled blackberries. The pineapple juice and Sweet n’ Sour blend perfectly with the tequila to give that ‘I’m on vacation’ taste.”

MIX IT IN Patrons of Ola love the views and the exceptional cocktails that compliment every dish. “Our margaritas feature the fresh muddled fruit as well as homemade Sweet n’ Sour and a chili lime salt rim that gives a truly unique sweet, fruity, spicy flavor.” LOCALE MAGAZINE 123


F

FOODIE Battle #

2

Bark With a Bite

E AT T H I S W I T H T H AT • For a delicious pairing, LaPointe recommends the Bacon-Wrapped Dates. “Flowing with sweet and savory elements, the flavors of the dates stand up well to the creamy craft cocktail. The maple glaze compliments the cinnamon and chai while the bacon and gorgonzola really balance out the sweetness of the dates.”

CHAI LATTE INGREDIENTS

CHECKED OUT • Silver Trumpet Restaurant and Bar is just steps away from Segerstrom Center for the Arts and offers a variety of craft cocktails on and off the menu. “We custom design drinks for each unique guest that sits in front of us. My staff and I strive to create drinks that cause guests to forget that they are in a hotel, but rather [in] a unique craft-style bar.”

• Cinnamon Stick • Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum • Tuaca • Chai Simple Syrup • Half & Half • Cinnamon Sugar Rim and Dusting • Orange Twist

The EXPERT

GRACE HELEN LAPOINTE Bar Lead at Silver Trumpet Restaurant and Bar

ALL-ROUNDER LaPointe’s Chai Latte was inspired by her Mexican and German heritage. “For this drink, I explored my love of tea which I drink daily. Sailor Jerry and Tuaca have similar flavor profiles as tea so, combined with the other ingredients, the alcohol taste is mellowed out, making the Chai Latte easy to sip and enjoy.” 124 LOCALE MAGAZINE

SILVER TRUMPET RESTAURANT AND BAR 3350 Avenue of the Arts Costa Mesa, CA 92626 714.442.8593 silvertrumpetrestaurant.com

T H A N K S A - L AT T E Keeping her patrons guessing is always a challenge that LaPointe enjoys. “Guests are always surprised that I can take a high proof liquor and make it palatable for sipping. Our Chai Latte is the perfect balance of having a strong cocktail base but not so liquor forward. Essentially, [it's] approachable, but not weak.”


Chai Latte

VS.

Photos By: Lee Walters & Jen Stroman

Eden’s Apple

E AT T H I S W I T H T H AT • “Our Wild Boar Sausage Sandwich is the perfect pairing for this cocktail. The bacon aioli adds a level of smokiness that helps bring out the flavor of the whiskey. The acidity from the apple walnut mostarda helps to clear the palate between eating each bite and each sip of the cocktail. Apple, cinnamon and walnut are a trio made in heaven.”

EDEN’S APPLE INGREDIENTS • Freshly-Grated Cinnamon • Monkey Shoulder Malt Scotch • Averna Amaro • House-Made Apple Cider • Fresh Lemon Juice • Angostura Bitters • Orange Slice Garnish

WILD GOOSE TAVERN 436 E 17th St Costa Mesa, CA 92627 949.722.9453 www.goosebar.com

The EXPERT

BAR-HOPPING • Bradford has been bartending for eight years in a diverse range of bars from high-volume clubs to Irish Pubs to craft cocktail bars. “What I love most about my job is the connections I get to make with our guests and creating delicious cocktails that people enjoy.”

NICOLE BRADFORD Bartender at Wild Goose Tavern

GARDEN OF EDEN One of Wild Goose Tavern’s signature cocktails, Eden’s Apple, is a major favorite and Bradford knows just why. “Our guests love that we stuck with the roots of Wild Goose Tavern being known as a whiskey bar and that all of our juices and syrups are made in-house to maximize freshness.”

S TAY B Y M Y C I D E R The special flavors of Eden’s Apple are a delicious blend. “Monkey Shoulder is the perfect mixing scotch for this cocktail. The subtle vanilla notes and aroma paired with our house-made apple cider and a dash of cinnamon make this drink the perfect blend of sweet and savory.” LOCALE MAGAZINE 125


F

FOODIE Battle #

3

To the Tea

E AT T H I S W I T H T H AT • Served in a Hello Kittythemed teacup and paired with a green tea macaron, the Hello Kit-Tea is one of the most requested cocktails in the Bow Room. “Pro tip: dip the macaron in the salted cream on top of the drink,” says Delicce. “It’s really good!

HELLO KIT-TEA INGREDIENTS • Jasmine Tea • Japanese Whiskey • Lime • Depaz Syrup • Yuzu • Cream

TA K E A B O W • Hello Kitty Cafe began with the Hello Kitty Truck in 2014. The Irvine location is the first and only permanent location in the U.S. The Bow Room is a separate 600 squarefoot space and is available only through reservation, Wednesday through Sunday. Dress to impress!

HELLO KITTY CAFE 860 Irvine Center Dr Irvine, CA 92618 949.536.5357 www.hellokittycafe.com

The EXPERT

EMILY DELICCE Bar Director at Hello Kitty Cafe

O N E A N D O N LY According to Managing Partner Allan Tea, “The Bow Room is more than a Hello Kitty-themed bar— we offer uniquely crafted cocktails in the only Hello Kitty Bar in the world.” 126 LOCALE MAGAZINE

GREEN TEA MACHINE Guests at the Bow Room love the Japanese-inspired flavors of premium green tea, Japanese whiskey and Yuzu and adore the signature Hello Kitty cup stenciled with a bow on top. A green tea macaron sweetens the deal.

SWEET DISPOSITION “Everyone expects that we’re going to have really sweet, cloying drinks,” explains Delicce, “but we actually have cool, complex cocktails that are strong and really awesomely-balanced.”


Hello Kit-Tea

VS.

Hey Boo Boo Too

E AT T H I S W I T H T H AT

Photos By: David Alonzo Hernandez

• According to Adams, Hey Boo Boo Too is so versatile you can pair anything with it but adds, “My personal favorites are the House-Cut French Fries and Chef’s Jalapeño Ketchup. Our Charcuterie and Cheeses are also a great choice.” REACHING NEW HIVES

HEY BOO BOO TOO INGREDIENTS • Iced Tea • Ketel One Vodka • Lemonade • Local Honey

• One of the few rooftop bars in Orange County, Adams believes that “the energy at Hive and Honey is magnetic. We have a great location with excellent views and an artful sunset. Our cocktails are well thought out and the menu was designed to offer drinks that can please all preferences. We offer a little something different frequently so that we can keep our guests interested.”

HIVE AND HONEY ROOFTOP BAR 7905 Irvine Center Dr Irvine, CA 92618 949.759.0200 www.hhrooftopbar.com

The EXPERT

CHRIS ADAMS

Principal of Ellis Adams Group at Hive and Honey Rooftop Bar

BEAR-Y SWEET Adams wanted to have fun when coming up with the concept of Hey Boo Boo Too—an homage to the beloved “Yogi Bear” cartoon. “We use honey to sweeten the cocktails as we balance the flavors. Yogi Bear evoked great memories for us so naming the cocktail ‘Hey Boo Boo Too’—was something cheeky and fun and a great way to showcase the personality of our team.”

H E Y, S W E E - T E A The Hey Boo Boo Too is the perfect choice to relax and unwind in a gorgeous rooftop setting. “The iced tea and lemonade work so well together to refresh the palate. It made sense to add the vodka, and our signature twist of honey turns a simple recipe into a delicious signature cocktail.” LOCALE MAGAZINE 127




F

FOODIE

U

N AT I V E KNOWLEDGE CAU L I F LO W E R TACO

• The soft yet crunchy Cauliflower Taco works as an unexpecting, tasty meat alternative. The simplicity of the ovenroasted cauliflower paired with the smooth, tangy salsa verde and freshly made tortilla is a satisfying vegetarian taco. Similar to the Chicken Mole Taco, the pickled red onion gives a crisp, sweet flavor that makes this taco fresh and inventive.

URBANA is located in the trendy Anaheim Packing District. This ‘Dia de los Muertos’-themed restaurant sticks to celebrating a Mexican favorite holiday and honoring the culture and ingredients. “Food is my culture—I love working with traditional flavors, but I always add a modern twist. I use the same traditional Mexican flavors and aromas just plated with a modern touch,” said Executive Chef Ernie Alvarado.

• Fresh and from scratch, Chef Alvarado gets most of URBANA’s ingredients from local farmers markets surrounding Anaheim to make farm-fresh dishes. The Thursday to Sunday specials are usually made with the best ingredients Chef Alvarado found at the farmers markets that week. Plus, everything they serve is made completely from scratch to achieve real, homestyle cooking.

FISHIN’ FOR MORE Cauliflower Taco Ingredients: • Oven-Roasted Cauliflower • Salsa Verde • Queso Fresco • Pickled Red Onions • House-Made Corn Tortilla

1

Chicken Mole Taco Ingredients: • Shredded Chicken • Mole Sauce • Crema • Queso Fresco • Pickled Red Onions • Pepita Seeds • Sesame Seeds • House-Made Corn Tortilla

2

EVERY DAY IS TACO TUESDAY AT ANAHEIM PACKING DISTRICT’S URBANA WRITTEN BY: ALEXIS MILLS PHOTOGRAPHED BY: HUNTER COLE 130 LOCALE MAGAZINE

ROOTED TO FOOD • What makes URBANA’s menu and atmosphere special is the mix of traditional Mexican culture and a modern twist. The chef is a master at being reinventive but sticking to Mexican roots and treating food as an art.

IMPRESSIVE TASTE

CHICKEN M O L E TACO

Now That’s What I’m Taco’in About

• People travel near and far just for the URBANA Burger made with beef and chorizo, a spicy and savory Mexican dish with a twist. The chef personally loves all of the seafood dishes including the fish of the day and the ceviche with big chunks of fish for the refreshing flavor. But really, you can’t go wrong here!

N AT I V E KNOWLEDGE • Get this taco and others on the Taco and Tequila Tuesday deal for two for $5 tacos from 4 p.m. to closing. Plus, you can pair the tacos with $7 margaritas and palomas or $8 for a beer and a shot.

• The magic behind this taco is the complex, bold flavors of the mole sauce that takes eight hours to make from scratch with a little chocolate, cumin, spices and chilies. When you take a bite of the chicken mole taco, you will taste a little spice and deep flavors of the mole sauce, crunch and sweetness from the pickled red onions and a mild flavor from the queso fresco and crema. This fusion balances each other out to keep all of your taste buds satisfied.

• URBANA won a Golden Foodie Award among other recognitions, marking the restaurant as one you can’t miss!

NIGHT OWL • Open until midnight, this is one of the only places in the area that offers quality food and drinks late at night. If you are in Anaheim, swap-in URBANA instead of your latenight drive-thru stop to Taco Bell.

URBANA MEXICAN GASTRONOMY & MIXOLOGY 440 S Anaheim Blvd Anaheim, CA 92805 714.502.0255 urbanaanaheim.com



F

FOODIE

Something to Wine About AT THE HOBBIT, MAKING A WINE SELECTION GOES BEYOND THE PAGES OF A MENU

WRITTEN BY: AMEIHIA TURINGAN PHOTOGRAPHED BY: DAVID ALONZO HERNANDEZ

Since 1972, The Hobbit has offered an elegant, fine dining experience for its guests. Described as a play with three different acts, dinner at The Hobbit includes a seven-course meal and a memorable evening. An integral part of dining at The Hobbit includes picking out the wine for your meal. Unlike other restaurants, The Hobbit does not provide a printed wine menu. Instead, guests play an active role by finding their drinks in the wine cellar.

S

From 7 to 7:30 p.m., guests spend their time in the cellar. Customers are given the night’s menu in order to select their wine bottles. As guests walk through the room, they sip on Champagne and enjoy hors d’oeuvres. “We want it to be more interactive for the guests to see the wines, and I’d say most importantly, to ask questions,” says General Manager and Wine Director Matthew McKinney. The wine cellar contains a broad selection of wines. “We have nearly 1,200 different selections in our cellar and it is arranged by country and grape varietal,” says McKinney. The cellar mostly includes wines from California, France, Italy, Spain and Germany, but they also have a strong collection of wines from

THE HOBBIT 2932 E Chapman Ave Orange, CA 92869 714.997.1972 www.hobbitrestaurant.com 132 LOCALE MAGAZINE

South America, Austria, South Africa, New Zealand and Israel. The Hobbit brings new products to the cellar each week and changes their wine offerings on a nightly basis. McKinney does open tastings every Wednesday and Thursday, sampling anywhere from 50 to 100 wines each week. “I’m not buying simply because it’s a brand name that people know about or simply because it got a good review from a critic. I taste all the wines that we purchase prior to purchasing them,” says McKinney. For guests who might be unsure of what to pick, The Hobbit offers a sommelier pairing each night. McKinney, Sommelier Amy Cody and Executive Chef and Owner Mike Philippi create a selection of four different wines to match the evening’s menu. McKinney and Cody are also present in the cellar to speak with guests and offer assistance. When pouring the drinks, McKinney and Cody tell the guests details about the wines’ tasting notes, vintage, region and producer. “With our pairings, similar to our cellar and how it’s set up, we really are trying to educate people with wine,” says McKinney. “We want to make it fun and exciting. And part of what we are trying to do is give people information and knowledge of wine that they wouldn’t otherwise get.”

Joseph Swan ‘Cuvee de Trois’ Pinot Noir (2013) Russian River Valley, Sonoma (California) • The nose is so aromatic—cherry, raspberry, cinnamon, orange peel and rhubarb. The tension between fruit and savory spice in combination with the natural acidity make this wine a standout.

Chateau Suduiraut Sauternes 1er Cru (1983) Graves, Bordeaux (France) • Created thanks to a special fungus that grows on the berries (called botrytis, or noble rot), the sugars are concentrated and make a very unique, sweet wine. Stone fruits like apricot, peach and nectarine meet with honey, cream and butter. These wines can age decades, and have an oily and viscous mouthfeel.

Storm ‘Vrede’ Chardonnay (2015) Hemel-EnAarde Valley, Western Cape (South Africa) • This wine has orchard fruits like apple and pear melding with lemon preserves and citrus rind. Some baking spice and toasted brioche from the oak, and a great natural acidity and minerality on the palate—there’s wonderful tension in the wine.



F

FOODIE

M EALS DECONSTRUCTED

SOME LIKE IT

HOT

For Chef Blake Mellgren, That’s Just How the Biscuit Crumbles

WRITTEN BY: DEANNA NGUYEN PHOTOGRAPHED BY: ROD FOSTER PHOTOGRAPHY ASSISTANT: DAVID NARDINI STYLED BY: ACI LANDA

134 LOCALE MAGAZINE


“At the end of the day, all I care about is cooking good food and making people happy, really,” said Chef Mellgren. “Good drinks, good food, good service—you don’t need anything else.”

CRAFT HOUSE 34094 Pacific Coast Hwy Dana Point, CA 92629 949.481.7734 www.eatatcrafthouse.com LOCALE MAGAZINE 135


F

FOODIE

“‘THE KNIFE + FORK’ SPICY FRIED CHICKEN SANDWICH IS NOT THE ONLY THING THAT WILL KEEP YOU SEATED—CHEF MELLGREN AND HIS TEAM WILL ENSURE YOUR TIME AT CRAFT HOUSE IS FILLED TO THE BRIM WITH THE INTIMACY OF HOSPITALITY.”

Familiar Faces •Eddie Judge from “The Real Housewives,” Lauren Conrad, Sammy Hagar and Amos Lee are some of the celebrities who’ve visited Craft House.

Sink in the Drinks •On Wine Wednesdays, you can get 40 percent off any bottle of wine without a price or bottle limit. On rainy days, there’s a special where you get half off your first drink.

Trailblazer •Chef Mellgren attended the Golden Foodies 2018 and was a contender for Restaurateur and Chef of the Year.

When asked about how the ‘Knife + Fork’ Spicy Fried Chicken Sandwich came about, Chef Mellgren explained, “A chicken sandwich is what I love to eat… It’s the simplest dish that hits all the little flavor notes on your palate.” With a laugh, he added, “I think there's something wrong with you if you don’t like a biscuit and fried chicken.”

Our Hearts Are Full •Craft House partners with charities such as MaxLove Project which advocates dieting, clean eating and how it assists in cancer rehabilitation.

There’s no shortage of delectable dishes that hit the spot whenever you’re in Orange County’s melting pot. One day you’re eating tacos and the next you’re curled over a hot plate of Southern comfort food. For a little bit of everything, Craft House presents the ‘Knife + Fork’ Spicy Fried Chicken Sandwich. A year-round staple, the Southern-rooted dish turns heads when it leaves the kitchen and hits the table. From the marinade to the cheddar and buttermilk biscuit, Craft House makes every layer of the sandwich—and everything else on the menu—in-house for a meal that takes you right back home.

T

136 LOCALE MAGAZINE

Southern food is known for its food comainducing effects and heartiness, and while you may need a nap afterward, you’ll be dreaming of flavors that remind you of your family’s kitchen. This rings true for Craft House’s ‘Knife + Fork’ Spicy Fried Chicken Sandwich, which never fails to capture the attention of many. Because of its large size and crumbling biscuits, the knife and fork aspect was implemented for a ‘cleaner’ eating experience. But according to Executive Chef and Owner Blake Mellgren, the crumbling is a sign of a good biscuit— another Southern element that’s celebrated in this dish. The sandwich has a lot of layers, much like the craftsmanship that went into making it. The chicken thigh is marinated for at least 24 hours with a marinade that’s spiced up with paprika and cayenne. White cheddar melts on the biscuits, and as for the freshmade slaw, iceberg lettuce, carrots, red onions, scallions and bell peppers are all tossed together to balance the savoriness of the chicken. The slaw dressing adds the tang while the honey sriracha sweetens it up. The dish also comes with hand-cut French fries tossed in a little herb mix and salt.

Craft House sits along Pacific Coast Highway in SoCal’s original surf town, Dana Point, right across the Lantern District. Inside, the bar takes center stage with low and high countertops and a shelf loaded with liquor and wine. The rustic decor coupled with the dim light bulb fixtures above the bar set the mood for the evening hours. A mixture of music genres amplifies the New American vibes and the slanted roof encapsulates the restaurant’s namesake. At Craft House, Chef Mellgren emphasizes hospitality. When people walk in through the doors, they should feel at home—like they’re visiting friends and family. “Craft House is the craft of hospitality and all the layers of craftsmanship within a restaurant,” he said. This also applies to his team, all of whom deserve the praise and accolades for their passion projects that inspire them to shake up new bar drinks or sprinkle in new menu items. The ‘Knife + Fork’ Spicy Fried Chicken Sandwich is not the only thing that will keep you seated—Chef Mellgren and his team will ensure your time at Craft House is filled to the brim with the intimacy of hospitality. Even when it’s a busy Friday night, Chef Mellgren will stop by your table and chat for 20 minutes. “There's nothing I won't do for those that support us and help us do what we want,” said Chef Mellgren. From asking how the food and drinks taste to how your week has been going, the conversation is as full as your stomach will be at the end of your meal. “At the end of the day, all I care about is cooking good food and making people happy, really,” said Chef Mellgren. “Good drinks, good food, good service—you don’t need anything else.”


‘Knife + Fork’ Spicy Fried Chicken Sandwich Deconstructed

“CRAFT HOUSE IS THE CRAFT O F H O S P I TA L I TY A N D A L L T H E L AY E R S O F C R A F T S M A N S H I P W I T H I N A R E STAU R A N T.”

‘Knife + Fork’ Spicy Fried Chicken Sandwich Ingredients: Chicken Thigh: • Buttermilk • Cayenne Pepper • Paprika and Other Spices Cheddar & Buttermilk Biscuit: • Flour • Butter • Buttermilk • Sugar • Salt • White Cheddar • Egg Slaw: • Iceberg Lettuce • Carrot • Red Onion • Scallion • Bell Pepper

CHEF BLAKE M E L LG R E N

Slaw Dressing: • Mayonnaise • Apple Cider Vinegar • Spices • Honey Sriracha • House-made Bread & Butter Pickles LOCALE MAGAZINE 137


F

FOODIE

Meat Your Match ENTER NIRVANA WITH WINE PAIRINGS MADE IN HEAVEN

WRITTEN BY: JORDAN NISHKIAN PHOTOGRAPHED BY: DANIEL BARRETT

For 11 years, Nirvana Grille has been providing its patrons with delicious, clean California cuisine. Handcrafted by Chef and Owner Lindsay Smith-Rosales, each dish is made with fresh produce sourced from local growers, hormone and antibiotic-free meats and sustainable seafood that are cleaned and cut in-house. This fresh, clean

F

Free Range Palisades Ranch Chicken With Farro Risotto Pair It With: Oberon Cabernet • Chef Smith-Rosales recommends an easy-to-drink, earthy wine to bring out the nuttiness of the farro. “It’s a really balanced cabernet,” she says. “It’s not too spiced or too oak-heavy. It’s a really nice, mellow wine that has a smooth, round finish.”

Broccolini Ingredients: • Broccolini • Shallots • Butter • Kosher Salt • Black Pepper

Demi Glace Ingredients: • Red Wine • Rosemary • Peppercorn • Bay Leaf • Water

Mashed Potatoes Ingredients: • Mashed Yukon Gold Potatoes • Goat Cheese • Half and Half • Unsalted Butter • Kosher Salt • Black Pepper

aspect to Chef Smith-Rosales’ cooking makes for unbelievably rich and bold flavors, which are only accentuated by the perfect bottle of vino. Our personal favorite? A dijon-pistachio-crusted rack of lamb that tastes as incredible as it looks. So whether you’re saying “Cheers,” “Salut” or “Sláinte,” these food and wine pairings are definitely something to raise your glass to.

Wild Mushroom Ravioli With Sun-Dried Tomato Artichoke Pesto Cream Sauce, Goat Cheese, Pine Nuts and Basil Pair It With: Gevrey-Chambertin Pinot Noir • Chef Smith-Rosales wants to celebrate the earthy flavors in this combination, explaining that “the sweetness and acidity of the sun-dried tomatoes along with the heartiness and earthiness of the ravioli makes a nice balance for the wine.”

Dijon-PistachioCrusted Rack of Lamb With Goat Cheese Mashed Potatoes Pair It With: Etude Pinot Noir • Served with creamy goat cheese mashed Yukon Gold potato, fresh broccolini with shallot butter and an herbaceous rosemary-roasted demi-glace, the dijonpistachio-crusted rack of lamb is a dish that’s as delicious as it is comforting. And the beautiful flavors of the lamb are only accentuated by the Etude Pinot Noir. “It’s a really smokey, earthytasting pinot noir with great ripe stone fruit,” Chef Smith-Rosales says of the wellrounded wine. “It’s got a charcoal-y depth that goes really well with the nuts and the goat cheese in the dish.”

Lamb Dish Ingredients: • Australian Rack of Lamb • Crushed Pistachios • Panko Breadcrumbs • Dijon • White Wine • Mayonnaise • Kosher Salt • Black Pepper

NIRVANA GRILLE 303 Broadway St, Ste 101 Laguna Beach, CA 92651 949.497.0027 www.nirvanagrille.com

138

LOCALE MAGAZINE




ALIVE LU X U RY // / TR E ATM E N T / / / HE N N A

APRIL 2019

142

148

UGP Perfection to the Tee

Swing Into High Gear With UGP’s Multi-Factor Program

NATURALLY WHITE OC Naturally White OC Is Making Smiles More Brilliant by the Minute

144

FEATURE KARMA’s Electric Vehicles Will Have You Driving in California Luxury

148

UGP UGP Offers a ‘HoleIn-One’ Program

150

ARTIST SPOTLIGHT Henna Artist Sana Yousuf’s Designs Are Creating Lasting Impressions

152

FEATURE Dr. Roth Is the Go-To Podiatrist for Nail Beautification

158

THINK TOGETHER The Raise a Hand Event Lets Your Voice Be Heard Without a Single Word

UGP – OC 3186 Airway Ave, Ste J Costa Mesa, CA 92626 949.209.8979 www.ugp.la PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY: UGP

141

LOCALE MAGAZINE


A

ALIVE

Brighter Smiles Per Hour

Beauty Isn’t Always Pain • Sensitive teeth and enamel damage are a thing of the past. Naturally White OC’s procedures are safe, quick and painless!

HOW 60 MINUTES CAN ADD A DAZZLE TO YOUR SMILE

T

The Tools • Naturally White’s 60-Minute Whitening process includes the use of FDA-approved, low UV, LED lights, which accelerate the whitening process, creating gorgeous smiles in half the time as other treatments. First, a Boost Remineralizing Gel is applied and allowed to sit, followed by three increments of its food-based, carbon peroxide whitening gel.

WRITTEN BY: GABY GARCIA PHOTOGRAPHED BY: ZO’E COLE

Eyes may be the windows to the soul, but a smile can be just as illuminating. Beautiful, gleaming teeth convey confidence, good health and overall well-being. And now, at Naturally White OC, the gorgeous smile you’ve always wanted can be yours in just one visit. Using a plant and mineral-based formula in a spa-like, tranquil setting, Naturally White OC guarantees to lighten your pearly whites significantly in half the time as other treatments. So whether you’re tying the knot, interviewing for that dream job or just want to up your selfie game, make an appointment at Naturally White and get ready to shine!

The Staff • The staff is warm, friendly and dedicated to making you comfortable from the moment you walk in the door. Sherry Smith, Naturally White OC’s manager and whitening technician, is beyond wonderful and treats you like you’re a guest in her home.

“The staff is warm, friendly and dedicated to making you comfortable from the moment you walk in the door.” No Drills, Just Frills. • You won’t hear any dental instruments whirring and screeching here! The beautiful lobby of Naturally White’s “studio” welcomes you with soft lighting, calming music and warm, modern decor. Shine on! • Want to ensure a radiant smile between treatments? Naturally White offers take-home products including whitening toothpaste and pro home whitening kits. 142 LOCALE MAGAZINE

The Services • Their 60-minute, in-office cosmetic teeth whitening uses a proprietary plant and mineral-based system that gently lifts stains and whitens your teeth without damaging the enamel. The service is guaranteed to brighten your smile by three to 12 shades in just one session, and when done in conjunction with their Boost Remineralizing Gel treatment, your enamel will be sealed and stronger, helping maintain the longevity of your new and improved grin.

The Experience • Once you’ve checked in, a shade guide is used to determine where you are and where you’re going post-treatment. After getting tucked in, the process begins, and your whitening technician keeps you company throughout the visit. An hour later, you walk out feeling renewed and confident—and ready to conquer the world! The Results • Naturally White’s camera-ready results can last up to one year. But, unless you’re willing to forfeit your daily double espresso and “occasional” glass of Malbec, you should plan on visiting Naturally White OC every six months for a routine touch-up. NATURALLY WHITE OC 2711 E Coast Hwy, Ste C Corona Del Mar, CA 92625 949.287.6988 www.naturally-white.com



A

ALIVE

Let KARMA Take the Wheel DRIVE IN LUXURY WITH KARMA’S ELECTRIC VEHICLES

WRITTEN BY: DIEGO E. GAXIOLA PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY: KARMA AUTOMOTIVE

The Southern California-based company KARMA Automotive is leading the world in electric vehicle technology with the Revero, its phenomenally-designed, extended-range electric vehicle. When KARMA Automotive says “Southern California-based,” they really mean it. The auto manufacturer is the first in the world to be designed, engineered, assembled and marketed all within their HQ in Irvine and production site in Moreno Valley. From the tranquility of the Anza Desert Valley to the thrilling energy of the dynamic coastline, the Revero derives its inspiration from SoCal’s natural landscapes.

KARMA ORANGE COUNTY 950 W Coast Hwy Newport Beach, CA 92663 844.527.6262 karmaoc.com

KARMA WESTLAKE 250 S Cord Ave Thousand Oaks, CA 91362 844.935.0800 karmawestlake.com

144

KARMA PASADENA 285 W Colorado Blvd Pasadena, CA 91105 833.205.6602 karmapasadena.com


From the sleek “Crystal Cove” interior design collection to the breathtaking “Balboa Blue” exterior paint collection option, each color was thoughtfullyformulated to allow individuals to create a vehicle that truly exemplifies uniqueness and unsurpassable luxury.

LOCALE MAGAZINE 145


A

ALIVE

“If an individual brings in a purple Hermes handbag with the hopes of purchasing a car in that same color, our team will be able to color match that exact piece.” —Laura Johnson 146 LOCALE MAGAZINE


The auto manufacturer is the first in the world to be designed, engineered, assembled and marketed all within their HQ in Irvine and production site in Moreno Valley.

NOT YOUR AVERAGE RENTAL

KARMA Automotive and Exotic Car Collection by Enterprise have partnered, allowing the Revero to be available to renters throughout their Southern California locations.

RARE FIND

Each Revero badge is hand painted by a skilled artist and set in a ring of aluminum, allowing each vehicle to truly be one-of-a-kind.

RIDE ON

KARMA Automotive has partnered with Italian-based automotive systems components supplier Magneti Marelli to construct a more compact and quieter state-of-the-art exhaust system for their all-new vehicles. The result is an innovative, side-toside exhaust system instead of the typical front-to-back system.

PRACTICE GOOD KARMA

Owners have their own personal KARMA representative assisting them throughout their entire ownership of a vehicle, including purchasing, delivering and providing roadside assistance.

T

The KARMA team includes individuals specializing in fields including technology, art and automotive, helping to bring perspective and expertise throughout the design and execution of every vehicle. Each Revero is designed with an emphasis on pristine visual elegance while still maintaining durability and top-of-the-line, eco-friendly technology. The Revero itself features a lightweight aluminum space frame construction with dynamic, dual-electric motors, allowing the luxurious work of drivable art to travel from destination to destination in style. The lithium-ion battery within every Revero model is what powers the electric motors, providing individuals with up to 50 miles of pure-electric driving range. Once the vehicle exceeds the 50 miles of naturally-powered electric driving range, the gas-powered generator automatically engages to create more electricity, allowing for nearly 300 more miles of travel. In instances of long-distance travel beyond 300 miles, the Revero’s lithium-ion battery may be recharged or the gasoline tank can be filled to proceed to the desired destination. Recharging KARMA vehicles is convenient: it only

takes an astonishing 24 minutes to reach 80 percent. Aside from the Revero’s vast array of ecofriendly characteristics, the customizable options available for owners are what set the automotive company apart from its competitors. Individuals are given the chance to design their Revero by utilizing KARMA’s interactive website features, enticing exploration and redefining the idea of what luxury electric vehicle customization entails. Potential owners are presented with a selection of stunning California natural landscapes, allowing them to determine which image resonates with their own unique lifestyle. The exterior and interior color options may sound familiar to most because, like KARMA Automotive, the available color schemes were inspired by the versatility and pure allure of SoCal. From the sleek “Crystal Cove” interior design collection to the breathtaking “Balboa Blue” exterior paint collection option, each color was thoughtfully-formulated to allow individuals to create a vehicle that truly exemplifies uniqueness and unsurpassable luxury.

deems as “an example of what customization can mean for KARMA.” The signature pearlwhite, layered glass flake exterior is utilized to encapsulate the moment sunlight gently shimmers through the tips of the ocean surf, while the ominously-dark carbon fiber wheels create a lively juxtaposition of colors. KARMA Automotive is thrilled to announce the renaming of their Moreno Valley facility. Now known as KARMA Innovation and Customization Center, or KICC for short, the name change is utilized to reaffirm KARMA’s core values as a company, highlighting both innovation and customization. KARMA Automotive’s West Marketing Manager, Laura Johnson, shares what the state-of-the-art facility has to offer, stating that, “If an individual brings in a purple Hermes handbag with the hopes of purchasing a car in that same color, our team will be able to color match that exact piece.” With the continued successes and exciting future plans for KARMA Automotive, the Revero truly proves to be an excellent fit for those seeking a vehicle that fully encompasses the SoCal lifestyle.

KARMA Automotive recently unveiled the “Aliso Edition,” which CEO Dr. Lance Zhou LOCALE MAGAZINE 147


A

ALIVE

Perfection to the Tee SWING INTO HIGH GEAR WITH UGP’S MULTI-FACTOR PROGRAM WRITTEN BY: MICHELLE JACO PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY: UGP

Sports reward hard work and determination— cliché, but true. However, when it comes to your golf game, the formula for improvement can be a bit more complicated. Tweak your stance, go to the range, play different courses—what do you do when traditional golf instruction proves to be ineffective and leaves you confused and frustrated? With their latest state-of-the-art facility in Costa Mesa, UGP offers members advanced performanceenhancing practices backed by their unique program that can target all aspects of the game. As UGP’s Director of Performance, Leo Rooney explains, “Golf development is not about quick fixes or overnight results. It's about committing to a process and plan that will improve your game over time, so you don’t end up going back to old habits after unsuccessfully trying something new you saw on TV.” Does this sound like you? UGP might be just what you need.

How Fitting • Your hardware matters. UGP assesses everything from your club’s grip, shaft, to the head and can tailor a club unique to your exact physical characteristics. Rooney says, “Playing with clubs that aren’t fit for you is comparable to playing ice hockey in tennis shoes; you can play but your performance will be severely limited.”

“The difference between having clubs properly fit can be a huge improvement towards a player's distance, ball striking and accuracy.” —Leo Rooney

S

Rest, Recover, Repeat • “The recovery process enables you to prepare for tomorrow. Without proper recovery, you won't be able to play golf at your best potential,” states Rooney. UGP has quite the recovery regimen, as they specialize in golf-specific physical therapy and use the latest technological advancements and a whole sports medicine team.

“Being able to control your emotions, focus and mindset is a must to play your best golf.” —Leo Rooney

Join UGP

Let’s Get Physical UGP – OC 3186 Airway Ave, Ste J Costa Mesa, CA 92626 949.209.8979 www.ugp.la

148

LOCALE MAGAZINE

• For an effective swing, golfers do require a level of athleticism, and in order to improve in this area, training must be specific to the demands of

the game. “Whether it be mobility, power, speed, strength, stability or coordination, we want to make sure your body does not hinder your golf development,” says Rooney.

• Coaching is a pivotal aspect in sports, and UGP certainly doesn’t skimp there. While you may not be headed for the Ryder Cup just yet, Rooney explains that his coaching staff is more than equipped to help your golf game develop. “All of our coaches have a unique background and skill set that enables them to not only be a swing instructor but also a golf coach. Inspiration and motivation are key factors in our coaching philosophy.”



A

Leaving Her Mark

Inspiring Aesthetics • “Inspiration is everywhere,” Yousuf says, nodding over to a woman in a purple, floral dress. “Flowers, beauty, the internet; but my inspiration is always brides.”

FOR SANA YOUSUF, HENNA IS ALL ABOUT BEAUTY AND EXPRESSION

WRITTEN BY: JORDAN NISHKIAN PHOTOGRAPHED BY: LUIS GARCIA MODEL: SAM FONSECA OF BRAND MODEL & TALENT AGENCY, www.brandtalent.net

Child’s Play • “The first call I got was for a [kid’s] birthday party. When I saw the kids and their smiling faces, it gave me strength and power to learn more and more about my craft.”

Growing up in Pakistan, what first drew Sana Yousuf to henna when she was a child was seeing bridal henna and jewelry. “It was very fascinating to me,” she says. “Then I decided that I should try it!” She then began drawing her own designs and practicing her freehand and sketching skills. “When I was eight,” she recalls her first attempt, “I drew a small, little flower.” Little did she know that her fascination would one day blossom into a full-fledged career.

G

Years later, while waiting in a long line to get her henna done for the Eid Festival, it clicked: “I said to my family, ‘We should buy a cone, and then I’ll do it at home.’” After applying henna to her sister’s, her sister-in-law’s and her own hands, she was encouraged by her family to get started professionally. Since her professional start in 2012, Yousuf has created henna art for people from all walks of life; from applying Glitter Glam for children’s birthday parties to assisting people who are thinking about getting a design tattooed permanently. And although she always gives careful attention to brides—”I do sketches for brides because they have their preferences,” she explains—her

150

LOCALE MAGAZINE

absolute favorite projects are creating henna crowns for cancer patients and belly blessings for expecting mothers. “When I see the smiles on their faces, it gives me strength,” Yousuf says. “Believe me.” But no matter who her client is, Yousuf is always thrilled to share her craft with them. “Henna is definitely changing,” Yousuf explains. “If we talk about 10 to 15 years back, no one really knew about henna in Western countries.” And she’s right. Although henna is an ancient artform that has graced the hands, feet and bodies of women across the Middle East and Southeast Asia for centuries, it hasn’t gained popularity in the West until fairly recently. However, thanks to the internet and social media, there is a new audience to appreciate the art. Even though she thinks it’s become “trendy,” Yousuf enjoys sharing her traditions. “I think it’s good when Western countries are adopting our culture. I love this. I believe it’s good.” For Yousuf, there is no reason for anyone to not have the opportunity to experience henna—she believes that henna can (and should) be enjoyed by everybody. “It looks so beautiful,” she says. “Henna only makes you more beautiful!”

Henna From the Heart • Although she loves creating freehand floral designs, when beginning to work with a client, Yousuf loves it when they tell her what they want so she can learn their preferences.

SANA YOUSUF 949.432.8372 www.ochenna.com @oc_henna



A

ALIVE

Feet-ure Presentation THIS LUXURY MED SPA IS THE FIRST OF ITS KIND TO KEEP YOUR FEET HAPPY AND HEALTHY

PHOTOGRAPHED BY: DAVID ALONZO HERNANDEZ HAIR AND MAKEUP BY: JENNIFER MAU MODEL: ALEXA BRUMMELEN OF BRAND MODEL & TALENT AGENCY, www.brandtalent.net

152


GETTING YOUR FEET TAKEN CARE OF IS A LIFE NECESSITY, WHICH IS WHY CONCIERGE’S SPA OFFERS WORLD CLASS SPA AND NAIL BEAUTIFICATION SERVICES TO APPEAL TO YOUR AESTHETIC SIDE.

CONCIERGE PODIATRY AND SPA 495 Old Newport Blvd, Ste 300 Newport Beach, CA 92663 949.650.1147 www.conciergepodiatryspa.com LOCALE MAGAZINE 153


A

“WHILE MOST TREATMENTS MAY TAKE A

ALIVE

YEAR BEFORE YOU SEE ANY SIGNIFICANT IMPROVEMENT, MY NAIL TREATMENT GUARANTEES RESULTS. IN THREE TO SIX MONTHS, YOUR TOES COULD BE PERFECT,” COMMENTED DR. ROTH.

most people take for granted. “About half of the population has fungus on the skin or nails, but because the infection often develops slowly it may not be noticeable early on,” said Dr. Roth. “Most podiatrists and dermatologists have given up on trying to treat toenail fungus, claiming it’s incurable.”

A specialist in diagnosing and treating nail issues, Dr. Ivar Roth has now become the go-to doctor for nail beautification. Welcome to Concierge Podiatry and Spa, a unique approach to providing health and beauty options for your feet and nails.

A

154 LOCALE MAGAZINE

Dr. Ivar Roth, a prominent Newport Beach podiatrist, shared what led him to create this unique new concept. “After treating podiatry patients in a traditional medical office for many years, I realized patients were asking me to not only solve their medical problems, but to make their feet look better as well,” he exclaimed. “I decided to open Concierge Podiatry and Spa, combining medical treatment with resort-quality spa and nail salon services for a comprehensive approach to meeting the full range of foot care needs. In addition to focusing on the health of your feet, we strive to provide beautiful feet and stunning nails in a luxurious setting.” At the new Concierge Podiatry and Spa, Dr. Roth evaluates each patient’s overall health, including nails, skin condition and walking or standing problems. He revealed that the issue he sees more than any other are fungal infections, which

Dr. Roth did not accept the fact that there was no solution. Based on years of studying and testing, he now has an answer for your nail problems. “I discovered that previous toenail fungus therapies fail because a single approach or even multiple therapies usually don’t work. However, by combining four completely different treatments including specialized laser therapy, I have cured toenail fungus for patients who didn’t believe a cure was possible,” explained Dr. Roth. Patients who have waited years for results from other treatment options can now rest assured with Concierge Podiatry and Spa. “While most treatments may take a year before you see any significant improvement, my nail treatment guarantees results. In three to six months, your toes could be perfect,” commented Dr. Roth. The complete nail beautification progress includes eliminating spots on nails, reducing thick nails and improving overall nail appearance. Getting your feet taken care of is a life necessity, which is why Concierge’s spa offers world class spa and nail beautification services



Foot Note • Dr. Roth, BoardCertified by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, was the Founding Chairman of Podiatric Surgery at Hoag Hospital in Newport Beach, as well as the first Podiatrist Surgeon to have full active orthopedic privileges of the foot and ankle at Hoag Hospital. The Power of Heel-ing • Dr. Roth has a new medical option when standard pedicures don’t work. A medical pedicure is the answer for anyone with ingrown nails, thick nails, cracked heels, corns and calluses. Medical pedicures are also the best option for anyone with diabetes or at-risk for standard pedicures. With medical pedicures, now everyone can have healthier feet and nails. Sole Responsibility • Dr. Roth has developed and offers a line of high-heeled orthotics for the comfort of women and orthotic sandals for the California lifestyle!

“I DECIDED TO OPEN CONCIERGE PODIATRY AND SPA, COMBINING MEDICAL TREATMENT WITH RESORTQUALITY SPA AND NAIL SALON SERVICES FOR A COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH TO MEETING THE FULL RANGE OF FOOT CARE NEEDS. IN ADDITION TO FOCUSING ON THE HEALTH OF YOUR FEET, WE STRIVE TO PROVIDE BEAUTIFUL FEET AND STUNNING NAILS IN A LUXURIOUS SETTING.” –DR. ROTH

to appeal to your aesthetic side. Now you can relax and let Concierge Podiatry and Spa take your feet to a new level of beauty with fabulous manicures and pedicures. They create a relaxing environment centered around ‘me-time’—our favorite time, if you ask us! At Concierge Podiatry and Spa, it’s not just about a simple coat of nail polish; it includes their commitment to providing a luxurious setting that meets medical hygienic standards. Relax in their reclining massage chairs and submerge your feet in a soothing foot bath rich with minerals and organic oils before experiencing a sugar scrub that exfoliates and hydrates. Treatment continues with a hydrating clay foot mask and a calming coconut oil massage. Concierge’s manicures and pedicures features Dazzle Dry™–a vegan nail

line–and other top-quality products from NY Celebrity Manicurist Deborah Lippmann. Want feet that feel better? Are you concerned about a nail or foot issue that you would like to have examined before getting a pedicure? Concierge Podiatry and Spa has the answer, the O.C. Ped-I-Cure™. “During the pedicure, we look at five points that focus on the overall health of your entire foot,” explained Dr. Roth. “We evaluate any nail deficiencies, your skin health, circulation, look for any fungus identifiers and assess foot alignment.” Concierge Podiatry and Spa can take your feet to a new level of health and beauty! Whether you have concerns about the health of your feet or want the most beautiful nails, Concierge Podiatry and Spa has the answer for you. You deserve it!



A 6:15 P.M.

A Show of Hands THINK TOGETHER’S RAISE A HAND EVENT PAVES THE WAY FOR STUDENT SUCCESS

W

RIT

TEN

B Y: A D R I A N A C H

AV

6 P.M. SIP ‘N’ SNAP • Kick off the night with cocktail hour. Spend the Thursday night with friends and colleagues supporting public education, and make sure to snap a picture on your way in.

EZ

GIRL CODE • As cocktail hour continues, wander through Meet & Think, a front row seat to experience what kids learn in Think Together programs. You will also see a middle school student presenting a coding program she is working on.

• Think Together partners with schools to change the odds for kids. Think Together provides expanded learning programs designed to help students learn skills needed throughout school, into college and future careers.

LET THE BIDS BEGIN! • Don’t forget to check out silent auction items such as a sevenday stay at Casa Piazza on the Mexican Riviera, a baking class for eight at Le Pain Quotidien and many more. Place your bids and take advantage of mobile bidding so you won’t miss out on the conversation.

SUPPORT FROM WHERE YOU ARE • Can’t make it to the

6:45 P.M. 24 CARROT MAGIC • Be sure to get the night started by grabbing tasty appetizers and drinks provided by 24 Carrots and [AV] Irvine as you continue to learn more about Think Together.

7:45 P.M.

event? The auction will open on April 22 so you can give back from the comfort of your home. Mobile bidding will let you see the items before the event and give you notices on bids. The auction will close at 8 p.m. on the night of the event.

DO THE MATH • From 2017 to 2018,

8 P.M. PA SS I T O N • Learn more about Think Together’s impact by hearing from alumni as they share their journeys to success through college and their careers.

8:15 P.M. LET’S TECH ABOUT IT • Time to raise a glass! The funding received this year will support Think Together’s coding initiative to help prepare students to thrive in the workforce of the digital age.

there were 187,004 students enrolled in 552 programs in 47 districts across 8 counties.

THINK TOGETHER www.thinktogether.org/ raiseahand @thinktogether

Photography Provided By: Think Together

158 LOCALE MAGAZINE

• WHEN: Thursday, April 25, 2019 WHERE: [AV] Irvine WHAT: A night of interactive experiences and silent auctions for people who are passionate about changing children’s lives through education.

CAUSE AND EFFECT

7:30 P.M.

FAC E TH E FUTURE • Listen in as Founder and CEO Randy Barth awards the Faces of the Future to a Think Together graduating senior.

ALL THE DEETS




ESCAPE E X H IB IT S /// E XP LO R ATI O N / / / E XHI LA R ATI O N

APRIL 2019

162

PRO TIPS Realtor Casey Lesher Shares 5 Pro Tips on Finding Your Dream Home

165

THAT’S WHAT THEY SAID These Locals Are Showing Us Their Favorite Hangouts in Las Vegas

165

THAT’S WHAT THEY SAID ¡Viva Las Vegas!

These Vegas Experts Show Us the Best of Their City

176

SEE, STAY, EAT Discover Extraordinary Art, Luxe Hotels and Mouth-Watering Eats in Palm Springs

178

580 ANTON APARTMENTS See Why You’ll Want to Be Calling These Costa Mesa Apartments Home

CLIQUE HOSPITALITY—81/82 GROUP 6445 S Tenaya Way, Ste 150 Las Vegas, NV 89113 702.489.2129 www.cliquehospitality.com Photoshoot Location: THE BARBERSHOP CUTS AND COCKTAILS 3708 S Las Vegas Blvd Las Vegas, NV 89109 702.698.7000 www.cosmopolitanlasvegas. com/lounges-bars/thebarbershop-cuts-and-cocktails PHOTO BY: Michael Wesley

161

LOCALE MAGAZINE


E

Photoshoot Location: 4541 Brighton Corona Del Mar, CA 92625

ESCAPE

“I am made for real estate.” — Casey Lesher

CASEY LESHER, Re

altor

HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS • One thing has always remained the same in the search for real estate anywhere— LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION! Even in Coastal Orange County where some of the best properties in the country are, there are still pockets that are much better than others.

THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS • Look for wood floors throughout, cool fixtures and finishes–the latest trends are everything to buyers these days! With that being said, it’s best to find a property with aesthetics that are both trendy and timeless.

DITCH THE CAR

“I love architecturally significant properties like a John Woolf or a Donald Wexler, to name just a couple.” — Casey Lesher

Wish List • Lesher has had his eye on eight classic homes in the Newport Beach area that he has known for a long time that he lusts over. “One day, one day!” he exclaims.

162

LOCALE MAGAZINE

FIND YOUR FOREVER HOME WITH REALTOR CASEY LESHER

WRITTEN BY: JORDAN SMITH

Casey Lesher got into real estate in 2007 and has been helping people find their coastal dream homes in Orange County ever since. He has a passion for real estate and strives to help everyone find the perfect pad. Knowing that everything from location to the finishing in a home is important—and unique—to each buyer, he helps his clients score everything they are looking for in a luxury home. Here are his expert tips for finding the coastal home of your dreams.

Like a Champ • For Lesher, real estate is in his blood. “Nothing is more exhilarating to me than winning a deal with huge value points and opportunity,” he says.

HOUSE HUNTER • Hire a professional! An agent who has sold many homes and loves what they do will put you in a win-win situation and likely a situation with immediate equity.

PUT THE PHONE DOWN • Trust me, you need more than the Zillow app. I’ve seen buyers cost themselves hundreds of thousands of dollars by not having proper representation. I often clean these messes up!

“Nothing is more exhilarating to me than winning a deal with huge value points and opportunity.” — Casey Lesher

CASEY LESHER Realtor Coldwell Banker | Global Luxury 840 Newport Center Dr, Ste 100 Newport Beach, CA 92660 949.702.7211

Headshot By: Chad Mellon | Photography Provided By: Andrew Bramasco

• Walkability to the hot spots is everything! Prime real estate is always surrounded by the most coveted dining spots, popular shopping centers and entertainment hubs.

The Real-est Estate Around




E

ESCAPE

T H AT ' S W H AT T H E Y S A I D

¡Viva Las Vegas! These Vegas Experts Show Us the Best of Their City WRITTEN BY: JORDAN NISHKIAN, TAL COOPERMAN, ROBERT GAMCH, RYAN LABBE AND SARA DRAPER PHOTOGRAPHED BY: MICHAEL WESLEY

Whether for a bachelor party, a 21st birthday or even a convention, Las Vegas is always an unforgettable experience—as long as you don’t down too many tequilas. But while you were busy hitting up all the tourist hotspots on your last visit, you probably overlooked some hidden treasures. From food and drinks to entertainment and exhibitions, there’s a lot more to Vegas than meets the eye. So before you start planning your next itinerary, take a look at how these four locals live it up in their city. LOCALE MAGAZINE 165


E

ESCAPE

“Clase Azul is so smooth and easy to sip on the rocks—it’s my favorite drink to order.”

WEALTH OF LIBATIONS

Æ For brunch, you can definitely catch me at The Black Sheep for souffle pancakes and bottomless bellinis. For the evening, Commonwealth offers a cool mixology menu in a unique ambiance inspired by preProhibition era design.

www.commonwealthlv.com

SHOOK ME ALL NIGHT LONG

Æ The espresso at Dutch Brothers is strong and gives me that extra kick for the late nightlife hours, especially if I’m going to watch the combo of humor and incredible circus-like acts in “Absinthe” at Caesars Palace, which I’ve already seen several times. www.dutchbros.com www.spiegelworld.com/ absinthe

MÁS PARA AMAR

DEAR TOURISTS

Æ Please, stop day-drinking with tacky yardsticks, and start ordering bottle service.

2. Cool off from the 120-degree heat at the world famous pool party at WET REPUBLIC Ultra Pool at MGM Grand Hotel & Casino wetrepublic.com 3. Embrace the energy of the city! Soak it up, live in the moment and have fun

Expert: Robert Gamch Credentials: Executive Director of VIP Marketing, Hakkasan Group PROFILE: • Has lived in Las Vegas: 14 years • First job in Las Vegas: Passing out flyers for Light Group

FOR THE FOODIES

DREW BELCHER, CO-FOUNDER OF UNLOKT DISHES OUT MEALS THAT HIT THE SPOT

166 LOCALE MAGAZINE

Hey, Batter Batter • I met Derek Jeter at a celebrity golf tournament. I deal with various celebrities in my

line of work and normally I don’t get starstruck, but I was a bit when I met Derek Jeter. Be a Good Sport • I am a die-hard San Francisco 49ers fan, but I also think bringing an NFL team to Las Vegas will do great things for the economy such as creating jobs, increasing the sports culture and attracting more visitors. It will be an added aspect to make this city even greater.

www.tacoselgordobc.com

FEELING BLUE

Æ Clase Azul is so smooth and easy to sip on the rocks—it’s my favorite drink to order. You can get it anywhere that carries high-quality

www.hakkasan.com

ENDLESS ENTERTAINMENT

Æ On my day off you can find me walking down The Strip to people-watch and get reacquainted with the city, or hiking at Red Rock Canyon. It’s just a short distance from The Strip and features several paths, wild horses and burros and prime views of the city. www.redrockcanyonlv.org

SPLISH SPLASH

Æ Since I prefer dayclubs, I’d head to WET REPUBLIC Ultra Pool at MGM Grand Hotel & Casino because it’s known around the world for its A-list artist lineup, famed Champagne showers and unrivaled setting. It’s a pool party like no other. wetrepublic.com

POP, ROCK AND DROP IT

Æ Yellowtail at the Bellagio Hotel & Casino offers delicious, fresh sushi with an incredible view of the famed Bellagio Fountains. My favorite dish is the “Popping Spicy Crab” specialty roll. It has cucumber, asparagus and pop rocks.

www.yellowtaillasvegas.com

Photos - Yellowtail: MGM Resorts International | Absinthe Show: Erik Kabik

Three Things Everyone Should Do in Vegas: 1. Go see the famed kinetic chandelier at OMNIA Nightclub inside Caesars Palace www.omniaclubs. com/las-vegas

Æ The al pastor tacos at Tacos El Gordo are a must. It’s the best place to get authentic Tijuana tacos and everything is homemade with fresh ingredients.

tequila options, but my favorite spot is Hakkasan Restaurant at MGM Grand Hotel & Casino.

What Happens in Vegas... • Locals know everything. Vegas really is a close-knit community and nothing stays a secret for long.

1

2

3

4

Must Try: Patty Melt Dog, Elote Dog, House Dog DIRT DOG www.dirtdogla.com

Must Try: A5 Wagyu Beef, Seafood Pancake 8OZ KOREAN STEAK HOUSE www.8ozlasvegas.com

Must Try: "S’motherload" Burrito, "Weekend Benny" SKINNYFATS skinnyfats.com

Must Try: Secret Menu Ultimate BBQ Sandwich, Famous Mac & Cheese, Smoked Brisket BIG B’S TEXAS BBQ www.bigbztexasbbq.com


“Since I prefer dayclubs, I’d head to WET REPUBLIC Ultra Pool at MGM Grand Hotel & Casino… It’s a pool party like no other.”

HAKKASAN GROUP 6385 S Rainbow Blvd, Ste 800 Las Vegas, NV 89118 702.212.8804 www.hakkasangroup.com Photoshoot Location: THE BLACK SHEEP 8680 W Warm Springs Rd Las Vegas, NV 89148 702.954.3998 www.blacksheepvegas.com

5

6

7

Must Try: Phenomenal Menu Changes SPARROW + WOLF sparrowandwolflv.com

Must Try: Famous "86th Street" Square Sicilian Pie METRO PIZZA www.metropizza.com

Must Try: Omakase/Chef’s Menu KAME OMAKASE www.sushikame.com

Æ CONTINUED...


E

ESCAPE

“Frankie’s Tiki Room is a cozy 24-hour tiki bar with exotic drinks that make me feel like I’m on vacation!”

COFFEE, TEA OR GÄBI?

Vanilla Chai Latte. Did I mention I like lattes?

Æ Gäbi Coffee & Bakery is a vintage coffee and tea house with a fresh bakery inspired from Korea circa 1920s. It’s hidden in Chinatown and can only be found by an enormous wooden door and an illuminated “open” sign.

www.makerslv.com

RESELL-ABRATE GOOD TIMES

www.nachodaddy.com

www.gabicafe.com

Æ ReBAR is an eclectic antique store that is also a bar, so everything is for sale! Furniture, wall hangings, trinkets, beer steins, etc. They have delicious vegan kielbasa, along with other nonvegan bar foods if that’s not your thing. www.rebarlv.com

DEAR TOURISTS

Æ Please stop taking off your heels to walk around the clubs and Las Vegas Blvd, and start wearing comfortable shoes that you can last all night in.

My Top Three Bars on Fremont St: 1. Corduroy www.corduroylv.com 2. Downtown Cocktail Room www.downtowncocktailroom.com 3. Evil Pie evelpie.com Piece of My Art • First Friday is a monthly arts festival with local artists and artwork, musicians and food truck vendors. What’s not to love?

Credentials: Flight Attendant, JetSuiteX PROFILE: • Has lived in Las Vegas: 2 years • First job in Las Vegas: Manager and Visual Merchandising at a retail store in Fashion Show Mall

...CONTINUED FOR THE FOODIES

DREW BELCHER, CO-FOUNDER OF UNLOKT DISHES OUT MEALS THAT HIT THE SPOT

168 LOCALE MAGAZINE

Rays for Days • I’m a sun worshipper and, call me crazy, but I love that Vegas summertime heat! There’s nothing like lounging by the pool with a cocktail (or two) in hand, good music playing in the background and getting tan!

Æ Frankie’s Tiki Room is a cozy 24-hour tiki bar with exotic drinks that make me feel like I’m on vacation! I love the Frankenstein because it’s super fruity. It’s hard not to like any of their drinks though! www.frankiestikiroom.com

WHOLE LATTE OPTIONS

Æ I love Makers & Finders because where else can you get a Beet Root Latte? I also really enjoy their Salted Caramel Latte and their

Æ Go to Nacho Daddy and take a scorpion shot. It’s a pickled scorpion that you add to a shot of your choice! Then wash it down with an order of the Thai chicken nachos. You won’t regret it!

YOU GOTTA BE SHIPPIN’ ME

Æ Downtown Container Park has bars and restaurants built in and out of shipping containers. They host wine walks and live bands, and it’s especially fun over the summer. After that, you’re right in the middle of Fremont St, and that’s a whole other adventure!

downtowncontainerpark.com

PART OF YOUR WORLD

Æ Saying I have a mermaid obsession is an understatement, but Mermaid Lounge is so cute! They have interactive mermaids that swim in a huge 117,000-gallon saltwater aquarium with all sorts of ocean life. I hope to be a part-time mermaid one day when I’m not in the sky! www.silvertoncasino.com

Sky-High Miss American Pie • Life from 30,000 feet is always an adventure! You never really know who you are going to meet that day, and what’s in store for you. It’s pretty exciting!

Photos - Downtown Container Park: DTP Companies

Expert: Sara Draper

Broaden Your Horizons • A lot of people think all Vegas has to offer is The Strip. We are close to Mount Charleston so you can ski or snowboard during the winter; we have Red Rock Canyon as well as Lake Mead

and the Springs Preserve; and we are close to the Grand Canyon or the Valley of Fire, which make for great road trips!

TIDE OF FRANKENSTEIN

CHIP, CHIP, HOORAY!

“Saying I have a mermaid obsession is an understatement, but Mermaid Lounge is so cute!”

8

9

10

Must Try: Ube French Toast, 10 ½ lb "Belly of the Beast" Burger TRUFFLES N BACON CAFE www.trufflesnbacon.com

Must Try: Famous Bobalati Italian Ice, Spicy Sandia, Cereal Soft Serve Custards CJ'S ITALIAN ICE & CUSTARD www.cjsitalianice.com

Must Try: Happy Hour 5-8 p.m. and 12-3 a.m. for 50 Percent off All Steaks HERBS & RYE www.herbsandrye.com


JETSUITEX 105 E Reno Ave, Ste 22 Las Vegas, NV 89119 800.435.9579 www.jetsuitex.com Photoshoot Location: FRANKIE’S TIKI BAR 1712 W Charleston Blvd Las Vegas, NV 89102 702.385.3110 www.frankiestikiroom.com

11

12

Must Try: Robata Skewer Menu RAKU raku-grill.com

Must Try: Famous Cheesesteak, "The Big Sexy" Pizza THOSE GUYS PIES www.thoseguyspie.com

Æ CONTINUED...


E

“The Golden Tiki is a cool dive bar with pirate décor and awesome cocktails that always make for a fun night.”

ESCAPE

GET UP AND GLOW

Æ For an unforgettable visit, I suggest visiting the iconic Neon Boneyard at the Neon Museum, Las Vegas, Nevada for postcard-worthy pics as well as exploring Downtown Fremont St— there’s always something going on there! www.neonmuseum.org www.vegasexperience.com

DEAR TOURISTS

Three Restaurants Only Locals Would Know About: 1. The Black sheep blacksheepvegas. com 2. Pier 215 pier215restaurant. com 3. Herbs & Rye herbsandrye.com

Tattle Tale • What happens in Vegas doesn’t stay in Vegas—social media has killed that! In My Honest Opinion • Day parties are better than night parties: they let you end your night early and not wake up as hungover.

BELLA NOTTE

Æ The Golden Tiki is a cool dive bar with pirate décor and awesome cocktails that always make for a fun night. But if you’re looking for something more rough around the edges, go to Double Down Saloon for live punk shows and bacon martinis.

www.cosmopolitanlasvegas. com/restaurants/scarpetta

UNFORGETTABLE PERFORMANCES

www.thegoldentiki.com doubledownsaloon.com

WHATCHA CLINKIN’ ABOUT?

Æ Even locals can be surprised at The Barrymore, a great local spot for good food and a swanky outdoor patio, and at Commonwealth, which may or may not have a secret speakeasy called The Laundry Room. www.barrymorelv.com www.commonwealthlv.com

TIME TO UNWIND

Æ On my days off you can usually find me at home with my dogs doing not

Æ Las Vegas is known for its incredible live performances, but some of the best shows I’ve ever seen here are “Michael Jackson ONE” by Cirque du Soleil, “Opium” and “Absinthe.” www.cirquedusoleil.com/ michael-jackson-one spiegelworld.com/opium spiegelworld.com/absinthe

A PERSONAL TOUCH

Æ Being a regular has its perks. At Soho, I order off-menu and ask for the beef tataki roll, and Taco Y Taco knows how I like my chicken tacos—“white boy style!” www.soholv.com www.tacoytacolv.com

Expert: Ryan Labbe Credentials: Partner, Clique Hospitality—81/82 Group PROFILE: • Has lived in Las Vegas: 7 years • First job in Las Vegas: Developing parties and residencies at various Las Vegas venues

...CONTINUED FOR THE FOODIES

DREW BELCHER, CO-FOUNDER OF UNLOKT DISHES OUT MEALS THAT HIT THE SPOT

170 LOCALE MAGAZINE

13

14

Must Try: Chile Relleno Skillet, Hawaiian Breakfast Plate PEG'S GLORIFIED HAM & EGGS eatatpegs.com

Must Try: Famous Vegan Fried Chicken Sandwich, Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich FLIPPIN' GOOD flippingood.com

15 Must Try: Ube Flan Cupcakes, Ube Butterbars, Ube Monster Milkshake, Ube Cheesecake CAFE 86 www.cafe-86.com

Photos - The Laundry Room: Charles Sicuso | Neon Museum: Neon Museum, Las Vegas, Nevada

Stay Tuned • March 2019 saw the opening of a new concept of ours: The Barbershop Cuts and Cocktails at The Cosmopolitan. Clean up your

fade and sip on a fine-aged whiskey before slipping through the Janitor’s Door to a hideaway bar.

palms.com/unknown.html cosmopolitanlasvegas.com/ restaurants/rose-rabbit-lie

Æ If I want to live like a tourist for a day, I like to walk The Strip and head to Scarpetta for a great view of the Bellagio Fountain show while enjoying a delicious meal.

POUR DECISIONS

Æ Please, please stop walking around barefoot in/after the club, and start understanding that not everything is free.

a damn thing! But if I’m heading out, you can find me at The Unknown Bar sipping a superrefreshing, perfectlymade paloma or at Rose. Rabbit. Lie. with a New York Minute in my hand.


CLIQUE HOSPITALITY—81/82 GROUP 6445 S Tenaya Way, Ste 150 Las Vegas, NV 89113 702.489.2129 www.cliquehospitality.com Photoshoot Location: THE BARBERSHOP CUTS AND COCKTAILS 3708 S Las Vegas Blvd Las Vegas, NV 89109 702.698.7000 www.cosmopolitanlasvegas.com/loungesbars/the-barbershop-cuts-and-cocktails

16

17

Must Try: Pizzalzone, Lobster Stromboli BROOKLYN PIZZA CO. www.brooklynpizzacompanylv.com

Must Try: Filipino "Kamayan" Feast FULL HOUSE BBQ www.fullhousevegas.com

Æ CONTINUED...


E

ESCAPE

“Trust me, make an appointment and head up to the fourth floor of the Louis Vuitton boutique in The Shops at Crystals to see Akhob, a permanent James Turrell installation.”

SADDLE UP

Æ Pioneer Saloon is a 100-year-old bar in Goodsprings, which is just 30 minutes outside of Las Vegas. It’s a taste of the Old West and so close to the beautiful mountains of Red Rock Canyon. www.pioneersaloon.info

DO IT FOR THE ‘GRAM

Æ Trust me, make an appointment and head up to the fourth floor of the Louis Vuitton boutique in The Shops at Crystals to see Akhob, a permanent James Turrell installation. It’s an amazing immersive space that is a true visual treat.

LATE-NIGHT CRAVINGS

DEAR TOURISTS

Æ Please stop with the oversized frozen cocktails, and start enjoying a hand-crafted cocktail.

My Top Three Favorite Shows: 1. KISS Where: T-MOBILE Arena When: 2019 2. Billy Idol Where: Pearl at the Palms When: 2019 3. Queen with Adam Lambert Where: Park MGM When: 2018

Expert: Tal Cooperman Credentials: Creative Director, Palms Casino Resort PROFILE: • Has lived in Las Vegas: 5 years • First job in Las Vegas: Director of Marketing at Drai’s Nightclub and Dayclub at The Cromwell

...CONTINUED FOR THE FOODIES

DREW BELCHER, CO-FOUNDER OF UNLOKT DISHES OUT MEALS THAT HIT THE SPOT

172 LOCALE MAGAZINE

Pte. Collection • Dr. Lonnie Hammargren, the former Lieutenant Governor of Nevada,

www.nakedcitylv.com www.eldoradovegas.com

DELICIOUS SEN-SATION

Æ Sen of Japan is the freshest sushi off the Strip. It’s located at the edge of Summerlin on the west side of town and has a casual setting

www.senofjapan.com

A DRINK IN MY PALM

Æ Palms has the best drinks! For a cup of the freshest coffee that always goes down smooth, I go to Lucky Penny for a J. Gursey Coffee espresso, and for a cocktail with less calories, I recommend a Kettle Rocks with lemon at The Unknown Bar. palms.com/unknown.html

DAM IT

Æ Boulder City, Nevada is an awesome town about 45 minutes outside of Las Vegas, near the Hoover Dam. If you’re in town in February, make sure to check out the DAM Short Film Festival. www.damshortfilm.org

IT’D BE A MYTHTAKE NOT TO GO

Æ People go out of their way to visit this store! Amber Unicorn Bookstore is a vintage bookstore with a huge collection of cookbooks. It’s cool to support a local business that has been selling actual books for years. amberunicornbooks.com

A Knight to Remember • My favorite Golden Knights player would have to be Marc-Andre Fleury because the goalie has one of the toughest jobs in hockey.

Photos - Lucky Penny: Clint Jenkins | Pioneer Saloon: darrellcraigharris.com

Tough Crowd • Las Vegas is living proof that change happens quickly, but one of Vegas’ most notorious bars, the Double Down Saloon, has been bringing live punk rock shows and wild drinks for over 25 years!

amassed this incredible collection of curious artifacts that he displayed prominently within and throughout his East Las Vegas home. It’s wild to even drive by, but inside, you see so many wild things he’s collected over the years.

Æ For the best pizza in town, head to Naked City Pizza. But when I’m craving tacos, you can catch me next door to Sapphire at El Dorado Cantina for their carne asada and chicken tacos.

and great service. My must-try? The Garlic Shrimp Sushi!

Love Where You Work • I get to work with some of the best hospitality professionals in Las Vegas and we are creating the next era of Las Vegas!

“Amber Unicorn Bookstore is a vintage bookstore with a huge collection of cookbooks.”

18

19

20

21

Must Try: Spencer Steak, Short Rib Hash ECHO & RIG www.echoandrig.com

Must Try: Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp, Plate Lunch Burrito FIST OF FUSION www.fistoffusionislandgrill.com

Must Try: "BAR Gamble" BORN AND RAISED www.bornandraisedlv.com

Must Try: “La Asada Skirt Steak With Chimichurri, Maine Lobster Ceviche MORDEO BOUTIQUE WINE BAR www.mordeolv.com


PALMS CASINO RESORT 4321 W Flamingo Rd Las Vegas, NV 89103 702.942.7777 www.palms.com Photoshoot Location: DOUBLE DOWN SALOON 4640 Paradise Rd Las Vegas, NV 89169 702.791.5775 www.doubledownsaloon.com

22 Must Try: Oysters in Rotation, Spicy Tuna Tartar With Waffle Fries, French Toast With Caviar, Prime NY Steak With Miso Hollandaise OTHER MAMA www.othermamalv.com


E

ESCAPE

“TOURISTY” ACTIVITIES THAT YOU STILL ENJOY AS A LOCAL Walking Around Downtown Æ It’s nostalgic! The Strip on New Year’s Eve Æ Always a new experience and what a celebration! Escaping to Red Rock for Hikes Æ It’s nature at its finest.

Expert: Ronn Nicolli Credentials: SVP Creative Strategy, Palms Casino Resort PROFILE: • Has Lived in Las Vegas: 17 years • First job in Las Vegas: Runway model for Fashion Show Mall

"The money doesn't come easy [in Vegas]. It takes hard work out here."

RONN’S FAVES

Favorite Sushi: Æ Kuruma Ebi no Tempura at Zuma

Æ Come to KAOS dayclub and nightclub Æ Stay at the Palms and get a drink at The Unknown Bar. I recommend the Bee’s Knees! Æ Go around properties and get the social experience

PLACES MOST TOURISTS WON’T KNOW ABOUT BUT PROBABLY SHOULD: Pho Kim Long in China Town Æ This place is open 24 hours, has excellent food and a very cool, authentic environment. 174 LOCALE MAGAZINE

Mr. Coco’s at Palms Casino Resort Æ It’s an amazing spot that’s brand new to Vegas and I really enjoy coming here. The Laundry Room in Commonwealth Æ This is a great place for connecting with friends, getting to know each other and networking.

Favorite Taco: Æ Carne Asada Tacos at El Dorado Cantina

Favorite Cocktail: Æ East-Coast Kali at CATCH

NATIVE KNOWLEDGE:

Æ Floating above the central bar in The Unknown Bar is the eye-catching artwork of British artist Damien Hirst. The Unknown (Explored, Explained, Exploded) features a 13foot, thrice-segmented tiger shark swimming in formaldehyde.

PALMS CASINO RESORT 4321 W Flamingo Rd Las Vegas, NV 89103 702.942.7777 www.palms.com Photoshoot Location: THE UNKNOWN BAR 4321 W Flamingo Rd Las Vegas, NV 89103 866.942.7770 www.palms.com/ unknown.html

Photos - The Laundry Room: Charles Sicuso | Red Rock Canyon: Bob Wick/Bureau of Land Management

WHAT EVERYONE THAT COMES TO VEGAS SHOULD DO:



E

ESCAPE

Desert Daytrippin’ HERE'S OUR ITINERARY FOR WHEN YOU VISIT THE DESERT OASIS

WRITTEN BY: ANGELA HATCHER

Palm Springs might conjure up dreams of hiking trails or casino adventures, but this desert oasis is also home to midcentury architecture and popular art museums. Whether a student of design or a fan of everything-old-becomes-new-again, checking out some of Palm Springs’ extraordinary exhibitions may become your new go-to adventure. Palm Springs Art Museum is the largest cultural center in the Coachella Valley and includes the 433-seat Annenberg Theater as well as the Architecture and Design Center, Edwards Harris Pavillion. Palm Springs, also known as the modernism capital of the world, is a breathtaking display of artistry which ranges across museum exhibitions, luxe hotels and gourmet dishes.

See

Hugh Kaptur Exhibit: Organic Desert Architecture

When: Now through June 17, 2019

PALM SPRINGS ART MUSEUM

ARCHITECTURE AND DESIGN CENTER, EDWARDS HARRIS PAVILION

300 S Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262 760.423.5260 | www.psmuseum.org

Shoulder to Shoulder: Depicting the Figure When: April 27 through Sept. 15, 2019

In celebration of the Palm Springs Art Museum’s 80th anniversary, the Shoulder to Shoulder exhibition showcases the museum’s permanent figurative sculpture collection, and brings more than a shoulder or two into view. This extraordinary exhibit features work produced in the 20th and 21st centuries and considers a wide range of artists’ takes of the human body. The exhibition is integrated alongside works in various forms of media, and among the beautiful gardens of the art museum. Shoulder to Shoulder is worth a trip or two. PALM SPRINGS ART MUSEUM IN PALM DESERT 72-567 Hwy 111, Palm Springs, CA 92260 760.346.5600 | www.pmmuseum.org

176 LOCALE MAGAZINE

Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs

Looking for a boutique hotel equipped with first-class dining and dramatic views from their rooftop pool? At Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs, you can enjoy a plethora of luxurious amenities all with a laid-back casual feel. Their professional and talented staff members are committed to offering the very best in service, accommodations and dining. The Rowan is nuzzled right in the center of downtown, so if it’s the seductive nightlife or the quietness of a retreat you are looking for, the Rowan will accommodate your needs. Dine in at the hotel’s 4 Saints restaurant, which offers fresh seasonal dishes served in a lovely social setting with a welcoming lounge area and outdoor patio bar. KIMPTON ROWAN PALM SPRINGS 100 W Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs, CA 92262 760.904.5015 | www.rowanpalmsprings.com

Hyatt Palm Springs

The Hyatt Palm Springs Hotel is synonymous with sophisticated elegance. This sleek and striking hotel is guaranteed to turn your getaway into a trip you will dream of going back to again and again. Conveniently situated in a prime location, The Hyatt Palm Springs Hotel is in perfect proximity to popular restaurants, exciting entertainment and outdoor attractions like Indian Canyons and VillageFest. After a day of exploring Palm Springs, come back to the Hyatt to enjoy an array of luxurious amenities which includes an inviting outdoor pool, state-of-the-art gym, a scenic view of San Jacinto from your balcony and much more. HYATT PALM SPRINGS 285 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262 760.322.9000 | www.hyatt.com

Eat

Workshop Kitchen + Bar Restaurant

Like Palm Springs itself, Workshop Kitchen + Bar Restaurant is a timeless and cutting-edge choice. It’s a delicate balance to strike, but the James Beard Award-winning restaurant has something for everyone. Tuck in at the communal table in the industrial-chic dining room alongside influencers on the hunt for the perfect Instagrammable cocktail, or enjoy an elegantly crafted meal of small plates in the airy courtyard. The Fried Cauliflower Steak is a dish that’s particularly emblematic of Michael Beckman’s culinary philosophy, exploring the avant-garde while remaining grounded in classical principles. Like its fare, Workshop invokes the effortless and elegant vibe that Palm Springs embodies. WORKSHOP KITCHEN + BAR RESTAURANT 800 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262 760.459.3451 | www.workshoppalmsprings.com

Kaiser Grille Palm Desert

For Kaiser Grille Palm Desert (formerly the Chop House in Palm Desert), serving good-for-you food is more than a work of art—it’s an act of love. From its all-natural USDA steaks and freshly-caught seafood to its free range chicken and local produce, everything on the menu is organic and responsibly-sourced. The restaurant has been a Coachella Valley staple for over 20 years, and its service has gone beyond taking down orders. Owner Eric Morcus, son of Founder Kaiser Morcus, is an active member of his community, holding titles such as President of Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week and a Board Member of Palm Desert Area Chamber of Commerce. KAISER GRILLE PALM DESERT 74040 CA-111, Palm Desert, CA 92260 760.779.9888 | www.kaisergrillepalmdesert.com

Photos - Erven Jourdan | Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs | Palm Springs Art Museum & Ella Merrill

Considered a true visionary, Hugh Kaptur played a significant part in the development of the architectural design for the Palm Springs community from the late 1950s through the 2000s. His designs are fluid and organic with features that add protection from the harsh elements of the intense desert heat. This first major exhibition of Kaptur’s work reveals his impact on midcentury architecture, and lectures and tours will complement this exhibition which includes Kaptur’s architectural models, photos, slides and other materials.

Stay



E

ESCAPE

Take the Next Step Interested in making 580 Anton your new home? The Leasing Office is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. for tours. An Artsy Neighbor The phenomenal new location of the Orange County Museum of Art, designed by famedarchitect Thom Mayne, will be located just a short distance from 580 Anton in 2021.

For those seeking a workspace, 580 Anton of fers a dynamic business center containing a useful inter net cafe and vibrant meeting rooms.

rooms. Plus, with John Wayne Airport and the 55 and 405 freeways all in close proximity to the community, traveling just got much easier! Be the Host With the Most

580 ANTON 580 Anton Blvd Costa Mesa, CA 92626 844.815.7536 www.580anton.com

No Place We’d Rather Be HOW 580 ANTON COMPLETES COSTA MESA’S HUB OF LUXURY WRITTEN BY: DIEGO E. GAXIOLA PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY: CHET FROELICH

580 Anton is a stunning new community located in Costa Mesa’s Town Center that plays into the Segerstrom Family’s vision of mixing business, the arts and residential living all into one masterful space. From spacious residences to the alluring, resort-style pool and spa, this upscale community is a glistening example of luxurious Southern California living that’ll have you wanting to move in ASAP! Luxury for Every Lifestyle From studios to one and two-bedrooms, 580 Anton has it all! A few highlights of the luxe residence’s wide range of features include gourmet kitchens, gorgeous vinyl wood flooring throughout and tech-ready spaces. 178 LOCALE MAGAZINE

• This upscale community provides residents with an abundance of communal entertainment spaces such as the Grand Salon, complete with a toasty fireplace and mesmerizing grand piano, a sophisticated club room and an exciting game room where residents can challenge each other to a classic game of pool or brush up on their ping-pong skills. Fitness Redefined • The state-of-theart lakeview fitness center is complete with Aktiv Virtual™ video training on demand, a modern workout experience sure to get those endorphins flowing. Yoga and dance studios are also available for use. Work From Home • For those seeking a workspace, 580 Anton offers a dynamic business center containing a useful internet cafe and vibrant meeting

Reach Peak Relaxation • The resort-style pool and spa boasts stunning views of the Segerstrom Center for the Arts as well as an abundance of outdoor seating options, an inviting fire pit and barbecue area complete with an opulent bar and TVs, allowing you to soak in the comfort of your own community. Location, Location, Location! • Residents can easily access the coveted South Coast Plaza Shopping Center, breathtaking performances at the world-renowned Segerstrom Center for the Arts and indulge in a multitude of gourmet dining options.



T H A N K YO U TO OUR PARTNERS

580 Anton

Mozambique Restaurant

Ageless MD

NanoCraft CBD

Andaz San Diego

Nook Real Estate

Anti-Fragility Health

Novecento Boutique

ARRIVE Palm Springs

Pacific City

Avila’s El Ranchito

Paséa Hotel & Spa

BoConcept

Pure Barre | Newport Beach

Body Electric Tattoo

RA Yoga

BRABUS USA

Ra’pôr Salon and Barber

Casey Lesher

Rancho Capistrano Winery

Catalina Island Company

Renaissance Clubsport Aliso Viejo Laguna Beach Hotel

Celebrity Cruises

Riva de Balboa

Charlie & Me

Sephora South Coast Plaza

Classic Club

SOCIAL Costa Mesa

Common Room Coffee Roasters

Starfish

Concierge Podiatry & Spa

Swiss Watch Gallery & Fine Jewelers

Constellation Brands

The BID El Paseo

Descanso Restaurant

The Boston Beer Company

Dr. Sanjay Grover

The Cannery

El Mercado Modern Cuisine

The Hobbit

Five Crowns

The Outlets of San Clemente

Goodwill of Orange County

The Quiet Woman

Grayse

The Westgate Hotel

Haute Cakes Caffe

The Westin Carlsbad Resort & Spa

House of Blues Anaheim

Think Together

Indigo Swimwear

Todd Bousman: bouHAUS Properties at Nook Real Estate

Irvine Company Apartment Communities, Westview Apartment Homes

Rolex Boutique South Coast Plaza

Karma Automotive LLC Ken Grody Ford Keys On Main La Quinta Resort & Club Lillet Lido Marina Village Electric Boat Rental LMC: A Lennar Company | Core Loews Coronado Bay Resort Love Serve Remember | Café Gratitude, Gratitude, Gracias Madre Mimi et Cie

180 LOCALE MAGAZINE

UGP Union Market Tustin URBANA Mexican Gastronomy The District at Tustin Legacy Viejas Casino & Resort Warren Christopher Wdowdin NMD Where’s The Party William Grant & Sons Winston’s Crown Jewelers




Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.