NFDI Style Magazine | Summer 2022 by Nyla Free

ST YLE 2 0 2 2

NFDI

S U M M E R

Loving

Laguna

Volume .04 I S S U E . 0 3

A GUIDE TO SUMMER FLORALS, INTRODUCING MIXIMALISM & MORE!

Summer Contents

07. NFDI Staff Picks

We’re getting back to entertaining this issue.

17. Home Tour

A home tour through the ages!

Summer 2022

51. Trend Feature

63. Travel Feature

79. NFDI Recipe

57. Editorial Feature

77. NFDI Recipe

81. Lately Loving

We’ve got summer flowers on the mind. Bringing Miximalism to the table!

We’re headed to the beach! Keeping it cool this recipe.

81 02

A refreshing cocktail recipe to enjoy all summer! Nyla is sharing a few of her summer essentials!

N F D I Style

One thing most people don’t know about me is that I have naturally curly hair. Actually, let me rephrase that; naturally frizzy, thick, unruly hair. I’ve been straightening it for as long as I can remember in an effort to maintain control of it. It’s a process I’m willing to go through as I simply don’t feel myself when I’m wearing my natural hair. I only don my curly hair while on vacation, in a warm climate when I’m mostly poolside, and it simply doesn’t make sense to straighten it. Hence the reason I refer to it as my “holiday hair”. I relate 100% to “The One In Barbados” Friends episode where Monica’s hair shows off its natural self. As soon as my hair encounters water, or humid weather, its state changes from straight to frizzy, almost instantaneously. Summers are about vacations, warm weather, and taking a load off. With the world opened back up, and traveling on the climb again, I’m ready for my holiday hair, as seen in our Laguna Beach travel feature in this issue (pages 63-76), and cover photo. This coastal town is full of culture, scenery and great shopping. There’s an unassuming cool factor to this place, and I can’t wait to go back. The longer days and warmer weather mean more time outside with cold drinks in hand. We’ve got a summer cocktail, and cool cubes to adorn. Whatever the weather, we’ve got the ‘101’ on summer flowers. Bring a little colour into your home with a fresh bouquet or two! My favourite flower is Ranunculus, which is in season - hooray! Our home tour this issue is near and dear to my heart. It’s full of incredible art, colour, and the impeccable and undeniable taste of our client. I’ve been working with this couple for over 20 years, resulting in many transformations of their home. It’s been a joy to realize their aesthetic over the years, bringing a collaborative approach to our relationship, now friendship. They have a miximalist aesthetic, which I love. What is miximilism you ask? Find out on pages 57-62. You mustn’t miss this home tour, as we’re taking you back to 1999, where it all began. Wherever your summer plans take you this year, I hope you’ll embrace every moment. Here’s to holiday hair, summer cocktails and celebrating all that the longer, lazier days have to offer. Happy summer!

xo, Nyla Summer 2022

FUN FACTS ABOUT ME:

NOT E F ROM T HE EDITOR

1. I am an introvert and proud of it! I love silence, alone time and heartfelt conversations. 2. I started my blog in 2009 and was so scared to write a single sentence let alone put it out for the world to see. I soon came to love it and it’s now a huge passion of mine. 3. I have naturally curly, unruly hair, however you’ll rarely see it. Think Monica on Friends when she goes to Barbados!! 4. My beverages of choice are hot water and lemon, coffee and red wine. In no particular order :)

P H OTO G RA P H Y BY M I C H E L L E J O H N S O N

5. Did you say travel? My bags are packed and ready at the door. I love exploring new places.

N F D I Style

Moonlight Summer Moonlight ‘ T I S T H E M O O N L I G H T, S U M M E R M O O N L I G H T, A L L S O F T A N D S T I L L A N D FA I R ; THE SOLEMN HOUR OF MIDNIGHT B R E AT H E S SW E E T T H O U G H T S E V E R Y W H E R E , BUT MOST WHERE TREES ARE SENDING T H E I R B R E E Z Y BO U G H S O N H I G H , O R S T O O P I N G LO W A R E L E N D I N G A S H E LT E R F R O M T H E S K Y. A N D T H E R E I N T H O S E W I L D BOW E R S A LO V E LY F O R M I S L A I D ; G R E E N G R A SS A N D D E W - S T E E P E D F LOW E R S WAV E G E N T LY R O U N D H E R H E A D . By Emily Bronte

Summer 2022

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arlourr If NFDI were a

/pärlər/ noun

a room used primarily for conversation or the reception of guests: such as: a room in a private dwelling for the entertainment of guests. From the French “parlior”, or “to speak”, a parlour is a sitting room in which visitors are received, and conversations held. It’s an old fashioned notion whose time has come again. Time to put away devices and communicate face to face. Or perhaps play a parlour game - traditionally one that did not require any special equipment, such as charades. From the look of our Staff Picks, comfort and perhaps a beverage are paramount to this welcoming space. 07

N F D I Style

TA L K O F T H E TO W N I’ve always felt a pull towards British design. After a recent trip to London, I had a natural inclination to hone in on that experience for the design of my parlour room. It speaks to patterns and layers, mixed eras, and most importantly, a room where one feels at home, free (no pun intended!), and relaxed. Relationships are built on conversations, and this is me to my core. My parlour room would encapsulate the desire for gathering together, experiencing laughter, tears and good ol’ fashioned chatting with an intimate group of people, whether my husband, daughters, extended family, another couple, or a few girlfriends.

FARROW & BALL Off Black No. 57

01. Art Anda Kubis 02. Tea Pot Fortnum & Mason 03. Candlestick Holders CB2

Nyla Staff Picks

LA ONCE

01. Toss Cushion Maison Margot 02. Tea Set T2Tea 03. Bar Kit The Whiskey Exchange

My goal for my parlour is for the space to be intimate and comfortable. When gathering with friends, family and guests, this space would be perfect for chats (gossip), tea and snacks. I grew up in Chile, where it’s tradition to have tea time most days - La Once! La Once is not limited to just tea. Depending on the day, it can include drinking wine, pisco sour or combinado (rum & Coke). My parlour is a place to sit and create interesting conversations, as I always felt happened when my parents had friends over for La Once. They thought they could fix the world or the neighbours. They had all the answers!

Ana N F D I Style

A S T U DY I N C O N T R AS TS My parlour is a cozy and classy landing spot in which to receive guests. Like me, the room is a mix of old and new, formal and casual, refined and rustic. Modern elements are mixed in with the more traditional fireplace & wallpaper. Pattern plays off solid, warm off cool. Texture makes an appearance in the form of live edge wood, wicker, reeding, and velvet upholstery. Sink into the plump sofas and settle in for a chat. The tall black reeded cabinet functions as a bar to provide libations for the conversations. Cheers!

2 01. Toss Cushion Designers Guild 02. Dark Brass Pedestal Bowl NFDI Shop 03. Coupe Cocktail Glasses Anthropologie

Kerstin Staff Picks

LET THE GA M E S B E G I N

My parlour would be a relaxed environment with less formality, a space that the entire family would enjoy. When we have family or friends over our evenings will usually end in a lighthearted competitive board game or a game of cards. I want people to feel comfortable in the space, whatever that means to them, maybe sitting cross legged on a chair or wrapping up in a blanket. I love a design with less clutter, bringing interest through textures and art in the space. It’s all in the little details. One of my favourite hobbies, and past career is floral design, and the floral art in the space is a great reflection of this. Overall, the space is a comfortable, family friendly place where people don’t mind losing a game, and of course we always have chocolate to drown the sorrows.

01. Toss Cushion Pottery Barn 02. Throw Blanket Crate & Barrel 03. Chess Board Pottery Barn

Jessie.W 12

N F D I Style

THE RUMP-US ROOM A space for anything and everything. This parlour space is the heart of entertaining for a small group of friends or your significant other, a cocktail after work or board games over wine - there are no rules in the Rumpus room. Filled with colour, pattern and a mix and match approach to furnishing - this room is no holds barred for fun! Layered with rich warm wall paneling and a bizarre but thoughtful mix of textiles and materials, you can truly be yourself in this room, or pass full judgment lol. And who doesn’t love a carousel fireplace, honestly! This space may be the best reflection of me because it is unapologetically weird, whimsical and meant to evoke an emotional reaction hopefully a good one!

01. Turn Table Rega 02. Striped Planter Matilda Goad & Co. 03. Toss Cushion The Conran Shop

Jackie Staff Picks

THE ROOM OF CURIOSITY This space is all about rich conversation. My intention was to fill this room with items that feel as if they have always been there, with the artifacts of family heirlooms and treasures from abroad. I invite you to stay for a boozy filled cocktail as we catch up on the adventures from our latest holiday. I used furniture pieces and decor items that felt like they each told their own story, such as the hand carved bee chair or the whimsy of the brass monkey side table. This room is surely to be enjoyed by my closest friends and family well into the night.

SHERWIN WILLIAMS Iron Ore SW 7069

01. Magazine Holder 1st Dibs 02. Candlestick Holders Etsy 03. Decanter 1st Dibs

Jessie.G 14

N F D I Style

ON THE T U R N TA B L E S My parlour is dedicated to conversation and comfortable comradery; an “anything goes” kind of space to spend time with friends old and new. Whether hosting a few friends for cocktails & boardgames or listening to the latest vinyl find, this parlour has something for everyone. Warm wood tones and large windows set the stage for contemporary selections with pops of colour by way of artwork and textiles. Both in aesthetic and function this parlour is a spot-on reflection of me. Now, if you don’t mind, I’ll be here listening to my dear friend Harry Styles’ latest on repeat!

1 BENJAMIN MOORE Chantilly Lace OC-65

Bri Staff Picks

01. Turn Table Crosley 02. Gin Tread Softly 03.Toss Cushion Anthropologie

INTERIOR DESIGN BY

NYLA FREE DESIGNS Amarosa Grande Collection | Puro ENGINEERED HARDWOOD PLANKS

Exclusive to

VISIT ONE OF OUR LOCATIONS

Calgary | Van c ou ve r | Edmo n t on | C hi cago d i v i n e f l o o r. c o m

This is the first major project I ever worked on, essentially launching my business. I originally began working on this home in 1999. Since then, it’s had many reincarnations, some decorative details, while others were full-fledged renovations. It’s been over 20 years and we’re still working together. The clients have since moved, however before they did, we jumped at the chance to photograph their Pumphill home one last time. The interesting thing about this home is the heart and soul that was rooted in collected pieces, travel, art and reading. There were always books around. Not just novels, but coffee table books with cracked spines, and hot pink post-it notes adorning many pages indicating what our client was drawn to, and hoped I could help her create. Magazines were plentiful, with dog eared pages full of handwritten notes ready to share with me. I always felt energized leaving their home, like I was on a creative mission, in search of the unexpected. Our client steered away from anything trendy. As soon as something started to be mainstream, she was over it, always ahead of the curve. She challenged me to think outside the box, and I’ve taken this with me as I’ve furthered my career. Interior design is about bringing something special to a home, making it feel comfortable, relatable and connected to those who live there. While this home, full of vibrant art and colourful furniture and decor is not for everyone, it was, and most importantly, is perfectly suited to our clients. Over 20 years later, and after our clients have since moved, this home remains near and dear to my heart. I first took photos in 1999, prior to the extension and renovation. More photos were taken in 2008 and 2009. The most recent photos are from 2020. The connection and resemblance from one decade to the next is uncanny, especially when comparing images that are twenty years apart. From the clock in the kitchen to the living room chair, the entryway art to the “thinking man’ sculpture, each decade shares a difference in design, yet similarity in detail and perspective. I’ve gone down memory lane putting this feature together and reminiscing over old photos. What a joy to have been a part of its evolution, and celebration of a design savvy couple, who put their trust in a 25 year old designer, once upon a time. Enjoy the tour!

I N T E R I O R D E S I G N BY N Y L A F R E E D E S I G N S P H OTO G RA P H Y BY P H I L C R OZ I E R ( 2 0 2 0 ) , M A R T I N T E S S L E R ( 2 0 0 9 ) , B LY N DA DAC O S TA ( 2 0 0 8 ) & N Y L A F R E E ( 19 9 9 ) A R C H I T E C T U R E BY S T U R G E S S A R C H I T E C T U R E

Home Tour

DECAD

DES OF DESIGN

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A RT W O R K : C AT H Y DA L E Y ( 19 5 5 - 2 022 ) & JULIEN SCHNABEL

Home Tour

1999

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20 20 A RT W O R K : T E R RY WAT K I N S O N

Home Tour

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1999 The floating steel staircase, and glass partition wasn’t quite enough drama on its own, so our client requested an update complete with a new graphic stair runner and colourful backdrop. The fact that each of these photos were taken from almost the exact same angle 20 years apart is unreal, and the clock is still ticking!

2009

Home Tour

20 20

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Home Tour

20 20 02

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20 20 During the second major renovation the kitchen received an update, and the previous living room became the dining room.

Home Tour

1999

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2009

Trend Feature

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2008 The photo from 1999 shows what was once the exterior wall in the living room, now the dining room. An addition to the house meant the living room moved to the other side of the twosided fireplace.

20 20 Home Tour

20 20

1999

N F D I Style

A RT W O R K : F I O N A AC K E R M A N

20 20 Home Tour

A RT W O R K : TO D D S A N D E R S

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2008

2009 Home Tour

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A RT W O R K : WILLIAM PEREHUDOFF ( 1918 - 2 013 )

20 20 Home Tour

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1999

Home Tour

The Maxalto Kalos armchair has been reincarnated three times through the years with new slipcovers, each time in a different colour. It’s our clients absolute favourite chair, and there’s always been a stack of books close by.

A RT W O R K : B RYA N RY L E Y

20 20 N F D I Style

A RT W O R K : C AT H Y DA L E Y ( 19 5 5 - 2 022 )

20 20 Home Tour

2009

1999

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1999

2009

Home Tour

20 20

We envisioned the mirror to fill as much of the wall as possible and in order to achieve the size we wanted, a crane was needed to hoist it from the alley, over the backyard, to the upper deck and through the primary bedroom sliding doors. It was a nail biting experience! 44

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1999

Home Tour

20 20

A RT W O R K : JUDITH GEHER

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20 20

Home Tour

1999

A RT W O R K : C H R I S TO P H E R K I E R

2009 48

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2009

Home Tour

20 20

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W O R D S : K E R S T I N DA LY & J E S S I E W U N S C H

Trend Feature

Summer in

Bloom

Summer is regrettably short in Canada, and we are rightfully gleeful when it finally arrives. Celebrate the colour and scent of this glorious season, and extend it even further by bringing flowers into your home in the form of arrangements. Here we show you how to care for 8 blooms we recommend for the prettiest arrangements under the (summer) sun.

N F D I Style

Allyson rose SYMBOLIZES

romance, love, beauty, and courage

tips:

• Remove all leaves below the water line. • Cut the stem at an angle and place it in clean water, adding flower food as directed on the package. • Fresh roses have a tight and firm bud, as they age the bud gets softer.

Hydrangea SYMBOLIZES

heartfelt emotion, gratitude for understanding, and apology

tips:

• When you first get hydrangea, soak the head of the flower in very cold water for 20 min. Remove from water and shake out excess water, cut the stem on an angle and place in cool clean water. This will ensure the hydrangea is well hydrated and will increase vase life. • Great way to add texture and fullness to your summer bouquets.

Dahlia

SYMBOLIZES

wealth, elegance, as well as love and involvement

tips:

• Dahlia stems are hollow. You should cut the stem at an angle with a sharp knife. Place in clean cool water. Replace the water every 2 days to extend vase life. • They come in many different shapes and sizes.

Ranunculus SYMBOLIZES charm

tips:

• Trim ends at an angle and place in lukewarm water to ensure the head of the flower drinks quickly. Add flower food as directed on the package. • Keep out of direct sunlight and away from drafts, a consistent environment is best. • Re-cut ends every 2-3 days to ensure long lasting blooms. Trend Feature

Lisianthus SYMBOLIZES

admiration for a friend

tips:

• Remove the leaves below the water line, cut the stems, and place them in cool clean water. • Keep away from fresh fruit and out of direct sunlight. • They do not have a scent and make a great flower for those who have a sensitivity to perfume. • Comes in a large variety of colors; purple, pink, yellow, and even lime green shades.

Scabiosa SYMBOLIZES

pure love, purity, and peace

tips:

• Comes in white, yellow, red, blue, or pale to deep purple. • Works great in a loose garden-style arrangement. • The stem should be cut above a leaf joint and all leaves should be removed below the water line.

Allium Ambassador SYMBOLIZES

unity, good fortune, prosperity, humility, and patience

tips:

• Stiff stems make them easy to arrange. Can provide great structure to your arrangement. • Great for using in Ikebana floral arrangements.

Sweet Pea SYMBOLIZES Kindheartedness

tips:

• Cut with a sharp knife to make sure you get a clean cut. Place in fresh clean cool water. • Thin stemmed and needs support - arrange with other flowers for support. • Gives movement and softness to an arrangement. 54

N F D I Style

Trend Feature

Happiness held is the seed; Happiness shared is the flower. JOHN HARRIGAN

N F D I Style

Getting to Know

Miximalism

Editorial Feature

What is Miximalism? What happens when you fall into a category that isn’t explained solely by traditional, modern, farmhouse, transition, Scandinavian or Midcentury modern. Perhaps you like a little taste of everything? I’m with you. I love a good mix! So much so, I’ve created a new word to describe my aesthetic, and a concept I feel we bring often to our projects. Introducing MIXIMALISM. Miximalism is an elevated, modern day eclecticism, whereby the design of a room is collected and edited with intention and love, rather than a space that feels expected, contrived and over-saturated in design. This aesthetic could err towards minimalism, or maximalism in its own right, however it bridges the gap between stark and cluttered, adding personality and warmth throughout a home.

Living Room CLASSIC stone end tables TRANSITIONAL custom sofa MID-CENTURY Risom lounge chairs

MODERN coffee table & floor lamp TRADITIONAL area carpet

N F D I Style

Breakfast Nook TRANSITIONAL dining table & chairs MODERN built-in shelving /banquette TRADITIONAL picture lights

Editorial Feature

We recently completed a project where the idea of Miximalism is at the helm. The era of the home is the 1920’s, providing architectural details that add a significant visual layer and beauty. We embraced and enhanced this by way of thoughtfully selected furniture and decor, room layout and overall design. With trust from our clients, we paired traditional with mid-century, and vintage with boho, resulting in an unexpected collection of items that all play well together, offering cohesivity from room to room and a true feeling of home.

N F D I Style

Are You A Miximalist? You love many styles and aesthetics. You collect art, artifacts, and pieces with meaning. You’re well traveled, and enjoy infusing those experiences into your home. You welcome heirloom, and nostalgic pieces into your decor. You want your home to feel like you, not like the latest trend. You embrace the era of your home, its surroundings, and aren’t afraid to celebrate a juxtaposition of styles. You accept imperfections, and appreciate a well loved, well lived design aesthetic. You accept imperfections, and appreciate a well loved, well lived design aesthetic. You not only love the mix of styles, but also textures, and patterns. You love a high/low approach to selecting finishes and materials, furniture and fabrics for your home. You understand and appreciate the investment in your home. You want your home to feel different and set apart from the rest. Editorial Feature

Dining Room RUSTIC MODERN dining table TRANSITIONAL dining chairs VINTAGE area carpet

BOHO chandelier COUNTRY buffet TRADITIONAL buffet lamps

Whether a day, weekend or entire week, Laguna Beach is a must visit California surf town with a vibe all its own. Located along the Pacific Coast Highway, you’ll find slow moving traffic, plenty of surfboards and meandering people in this vibrant coastal community. The trolley will take you up and down the highway for free which is great as Laguna spans 7 miles up or down a hill, depending on which way you’re going, so it’s a welcome reprieve! The art scene is unexpected, the beaches are stunning, and the climate is temperate, meaning you won’t melt while taking in the sights. It’s a favourite place of mine to visit, even for an afternoon. Travel Feature

g s n i f t rom e e r G

Laguna Beach CALIFORNIA

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WThOere

Stay JOAQUIN HOTEL A boutique hotel located up the hill on the north side of Laguna, Hotel Joaquin is fashion forward with all the right vibes for a romantic weekend getaway. Situated above Shaw’s Cove along the Pacific Coast Highway, this gem boasts luxurious bathrooms, vintage furniture finds and the feeling of being hidden away, and disconnected from the ordinary.

MONTAGE Montage is a luxury, family friendly resort at the southern point of Laguna, known for its beautiful beach (Treasure Island Beach), and stunning property. Enjoy food and beverages on the beach, s’more kits around fire pits or pamper yourself with a spa day. The Montage does not disappoint. Located across the street from a trolley stop, you’ll be downtown in no time.

Travel Feature

@montagelaguna

@driftwoodktchn

@carmelitaskdm

@zinccafeandmarket

PlTaOces

@carmelitaskdm

Eat

CAFE HEIDELBERG A casual spot to grab coffee and a pastry for breakfast, or a light lunch. They close at 2pm on weekdays, and 3pm on Saturday and Sunday.

ZINC CAFÉ The first location of many, Laguna’s Zinc Cafe has been feeding locals for over 3o years. Known for their breakfasts and marketplace wares.

C A R M E L I TA ’S Authentic Mexican cuisine with a focus on local growers and seasonal farmer’s market goods. Be sure to head over for Taco Tuesday!

DRIFTWOOD An award winning ocean to table dining experience with impeccable views. Delight in fresh caught seafood, steak, oysters and handcrafted cocktails at Driftwood.

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SiTgOhts

See

HIT THE BEACH! With a plethora of beach options, 27 to be exact, you can’t go wrong spending time on the coastline. Take a surf lesson, or simply lose yourself watching the waves. Most notably, 1000 Steps Beach in South Laguna, is worth the 1000 steps, I promise.

SHOP FOR ART! Laguna Beach is home to a huge art scene with over 100 galleries to browse, as well as the Sawdust Art Festival celebrating local artists from the end of June through to the end of August. Enjoy complimentary art classes, outdoor dining and live music.

TAKE A HIKE! Laguna’s landscape extends behind the beach and into the hills. Pick up your walking shoes and hit the trails for breathtaking views of the Pacific, lush gardens, wild flowers and canyons. Laguna Coast Wilderness Hike, Heisler Park and Top of The World hike are all worth adding to your list. Check the park hours prior to visiting.

Travel Feature

WThOere

Shop AV I ATO R N AT I O N A proudly made-in-California 70’s inspired lifestyle brand that celebrates music/surf/love culture. They offer quality handmade apparel, accessories, and surfboards. Hip, retro, happy, colourful and cool.

COCK & TAIL A shop featuring “the best” elegant home goods, tableware and premium linens. They also offer antique and vintage items.

KISKA A beach chic boutique with women’s clothing, accessories and jewelry.

VERTIGO HOME Modern and quirky home decor and design. Eyewear, wallpaper, high-end furniture, lighting and home accessories. Hip, cool, unusual and uncommon. The shop’s resident dog is named Utah.

LALA All things textile. Owner/designer Kerry Cassill designs hand block printed fabrics that are made in India and fashioned into garments, pillows, towels, bed and table linens. You can even purchase fabric by the yard. 72

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WThOere

Shop THE GARAGE COLLECTIVE California-aesthetic lifestyle boutique. Purveyor of unique home decor, textiles, rugs, jewelry and lifestyle items, with some vintage finds sprinkled into the mix. The diverse offerings range in vibe from Scandi, bohemian, and artisan, to modern.

THE SHOP Stylish beach and swimwear, ladies apparel, jewelry, and accessories with a sand, sea, summertime vibe.

HUIT French for “eight”, the store’s unit number. A home decor boutique with a collection of unique organic, modern, oneof-a-kind, custom, and vintage pieces thoughtfully curated by owner and interior designer Tania Cassill. California beach casual aesthetic. Look for pieces you won’t find anywhere else. They also offer full interior design services.

LAGUNA BEACH BOOKS An independent bookstore carrying a varied selection of adult and children’s books. Knowledgeable staff, author events and readings. Travel Feature

Did You

Know?

Travel Feature

•

• • •

• •

• • •

W O R D S : K E R S T I N DA LY

Laguna Beach is a small Orange County, California coastal city of around 24,000, located half-way between Los Angeles and San Diego. It is known for its beautiful Pacific Ocean views, white sand beaches, lagoons, coves, tide pools, and mild yearround weather. Laguna is Spanish for lagoon. There are 20,000 acres of protected wilderness that offer numerous hiking and biking trails. Despite its name, the hike to Top of the World is easy and flat. The city receives around 3 million visitors a year. They can participate in such various activities as skimboarding, laughter yoga, and whale watching cruises. There are numerous beachfront hotels, and over 100 restaurants in which to dine. Get around by walking, or via a free open air trolley that operates all summer, and on weekends the rest of the year. Laguna Beach’s artist colony roots are reflected today in the many galleries, art and music festivals, artisan shops and public art you will find around town. You won’t want to miss the Pageant of the Masters, which takes place every summer during the famous Festival of the Arts. Volunteers paint themselves, and bring famous works of art to life on an outdoor amphitheatre stage. The 90 minute presentation features a live orchestra, and intricate sets and lighting. (Photo) Laguna Beach is invested in preserving its ecology. The removal of shells, rocks, or creatures from the beaches is strictly not allowed. Victoria Beach Pirate Tower is actually an enclosed wooden spiral staircase from the house above down to the beach. This often photographed attraction is not open to the public, but can be viewed from the beach during low tide. If you visit Laguna Beach, you will be greeted by the town greeter, a tradition dating back to the 1880’s. Statues of the most famous greeter, Eiler Larsen, stand along the Pacific Coast Highway and outside Greeter’s Corner Restaurant.

N F D I Style

berry Pick a berry, any berry or combine a few! Add your desired quantity to each cube and fill with water.

Beat the heat and add a cool factor to your beverages by way of elevated ice cubes. This simple detail takes your beverage service to the next level. Whether a simple glass of water, or a fancy cocktail, it’s all in the details!

lemon Divide 1/3 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice evenly between each cube. Add a small slice of lemon and top with water.

Recipe

coffee Brew a cup of your favourite coffee and allow to cool to room temperature. Pour desired amount into each cube. Top with water if required. Add to your iced coffees to keep the flavour strong!

MINT Slightly muddle the mint to release its flavours but still keep the mint leaves intact. Place 1-2 mint leaves in each cube, and fill with water.

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hugo spritz We recently hosted an Italian themed dinner party, and in my search for a complimentary cocktail I came across a Hugo Spritz. It’s easy, refreshing, and it was a hit! Your summer gatherings are about to get a little more fabulous.

Recipe

ingredients • • • • • •

1 sprig of mint ½ lime sliced 1 Tbsp elderflower syrup more if you like it sweet, 15 mL 1 cup Prosecco or white sparkling wine 236 mL 1 to 2 Tbsp sparkling water 15 to 30 mL ½ cup ice cubes

instructions 1. Muddle: Briefly muddle the mint in your glass, or leaves between your palms to draw out the flavor, then place in glass. You can either remove the leaves from the stem or keep them on. Add lime slices. 2. Assemble: Pour in elderflower syrup, Prosecco, and a splash of sparkling water. 3. Serve: Stir to combine and serve immediately on ice.

tip: Use either the citrus or mint cubes from our cubed recipe to elevate your drink! We used the mint cubes for this cocktail!

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Nyla’s

SUMMER ESSENTIALS Summertime brings about a carefree spirit and altogether different approach to our days. Time to celebrate fewer layers, open toes, and tousled hair. A pick up and go lifestyle takes over the extra time required to warm up vehicles and bundle up - yay for summer! If you find yourself getting a last minute patio reservation, having some extra time to sit and enjoy an iced coffee, or an impromptu walk with a friend, having a few essentials at the ready allows you to enjoy the summer for all it has to offer. Here’s what I’m packing as I head out the door, and embrace each summer day.

Lately Loving

1. HAIR CLIPS for the times you’re driving with the windows down. 2. JOURNAL for the times you want to document a moment, or an idea pops into your mind. 3. CAMERA to capture all the moments and memories 4. AIRPODS for music, podcasts, audio books. 5. SET & GO POWDER for on-the-go light summertime coverage. 6. LIPGLOSS for shimmery lips. 7. WATERBOTTLE to stay hydrated in the heat. 8. SLIDES stylish slip-ons for taking you from office to beach. 9. STRAW TOTE the ultimate summer accessory. 10. PORTABLE CHARGER stay connected during the longer days. 11. ROLLER PERFUME freshen up on the go. 12. HANDCREAM to keep your hands hydrated and looking healthy. 13. PEN/PENCIL to stay on top of lists and jot down all your fabulous ideas. 14. SUNGLASSES a year round essential!

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N F D I Style

F IND T HE PERF ECT IT EMS FOR SUMMER ENT ERTAINING

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