So Scottsdale May 2023

MEET LAUREN DAVIES OF WHAT LOLA LIKES & FOUR OTHER FASHIONISTAS

THE WOMEN’S ISSUE

GIFTS FOR MOM

ALL THINGS WINE

RELAXING RETREATS

UNIQUE PRO PERTYFEATUREfrom the owners

"Our

When it comes to the North Scottsdale lifestyle and area real estate, these words represent The Luckys' commitment to excellence.

TOP 1% OF RUSS LYON | SOTHEBY’S AGENTS Since 2006

BEST SMALL TEAM AWARD BY SALES VOLUME America’s Best REAL Trends | 2021 - 2022 HONORED AS A "TOP 250 AGENT" IN THE NATION Wall Street Journal | 2018

TOP WOMEN IN REAL ESTATE Women’s Council of Realtors | 2015 - Present

Laura, Matt, and Lisa

This magnificent bedroom is 100% made in Italy and is a perfect blend of elegant finishes and contemporary design. The combination of natural walnut and high gloss panels comes together to offer a unique blend of warmth and sophistication. By employing the latest in modern manufacturing while remaining conscious of our environment, our Italian bedroom offers exceptional quality and a truly distinctive look and feel. These items are available from stock for quick delivery.

King bed $2788 Queen bed $2498 (mattress and bedding not included) Nightstand $855 each Dresser $1995 Desk $1799 Chair $455 Mirror $635 Dining collection also available.

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IN FACT, WE THINK YOU SHOULD BE TOO.

ARROWHEAD CHANDLER SCOTTSDALE

Photographer: Dillon Driscoll | Model: Peyton Toledo

ARROWHEAD CHANDLER SCOTTSDALE

Photographer: Dillon Driscoll | Model: Peyton Toledo

The Hair Color Expert, Rodney Gentry

Specializing in hair coloring, corrective color, dimensional hair color, highlights, lowlights, and smoothing hair treatment services.

Rodney Gentry’s meticulous method of hair coloring combined with state of art products produces healthy, shiny, naturally beautiful hair every time. Rodney creates a natural look that highlights the assets of one’s face and complexion. By constantly seeking out the newest styles and most advanced techniques Rodney achieves the look that is perfect for you. Rodney excels in creating a classic look with a modern edge and an emphasis on healthy hair as he focuses on your preferences and concerns. After consultation, Rodney’s attention to detail provides a style that is easily cared for and easily managed on one’s own. Your hair will not only look better, but also feel better. Most clients become lifelong customers. The loyalty of Rodney’s clientele is attributed to his keen eye, attention to detail, down-to-earth personality and for the wonderful experience he provides during the process. With Rodney Gentry in control of your hair you will look forward to the appointments, enjoy the experience and leave excited to show off your gorgeous hair.

BOOK TO EXPERIENCE HIS SERVICES TO UNDERSTAND WHY HE IS CONSIDERED ONE OF THE TOP HAIR COLORING EXPERTS IN SCOTTSDALE ARIZONA!

Apple

arboleda

Bath & Body Works

Bonobos

Buckle

CB2

CC Patio

Creamistry

Dominick’s Steakhouse

Drybar

etta

Fabletics

Faherty Feature

G/FORE

gorjana

Juby True

Landmark Theatres

Levi’s

LoveShackFancy

lululemon

Obon Sushi

Paper Source

Parachute

Peter Millar

Press Coffee

Sanderson Lincoln

Sephora

Sorso Wine Room

State & Liberty

Veronica Beard

Vineyard Vines

Warby Parker

Zinburger

Among 90 stores and restaurants, many exclusive to Scottsdale Quarter!

Change the Chanel

This one’s for the girls – it’s our debut Women’s Issue, and I’m so excited!

This month, we’re not only celebrating moms, but we’re also shining a light on some amazing ladies in our community and gearing many of our stories toward women.

Lauren Davies, mom of two and content creator (@whatlolalikes), is gracing our cover this month to represent our Women of Style feature. On page 42, Lauren and four other prominent, local fashionistas are talking all things style, including their inspiration, favorite stores and brands, and more.

Davies isn’t the only fierce female in this issue. We got to know author and motivational speaker Darleen Santore (aka Coach Dar, page 27), two women who created an app to promote literacy in children (page 30), and two more women spreading the game of mahjong with a new social league (page 32). To celebrate women even more, we decided to have two her style profiles this month instead of our usual one – meet both a boutique owner and nurse (pages 34 & 36) who are fabulous and confident.

What would an issue dedicated to women be without a little wine? Vino lovers should flip to page 92 for must-visit local wine bars, 126 for rosés that scream springtime, and 90 for the lowdown on Wrigley Mansions Festivin 2023.

And with Mother’s Day just around the corner (May 14), we defintely have to celebrate Mom this month. Highlights include: products made for moms by moms (page 94), two thoughtful gifts (pages 99 & 117), and two relaxing retreats that would make perfect summer getaways (pages 79 & 120).

Additional features include a look Night Owl (page 146) and recently opened downtown restaurants and bars (page 130).

We hope you enjoy our first Women’s Issue, and keep this fun quote in mind: “Here’s to strong women. May we know them. May we be them. May we raise them.”

All my best,

Gabby Leighton Editor-in-Chief

gabby@richmanmediagroup.com

Connect with us!

Facebook: @soscottsdalemagazine

Instagram: @so_scottsdale_magazine

Publisher Bill Richman

Vice President of Operations

Stacey Richman

Editor-in-Chief

Gabby Leighton

Creative Director

Lalo Reyes

Contributing Writers

Becky Antioco, Alison Bailin Batz, Mandy Holmes, Kaylor Jones, Afi Maita, Jordan Moreno, Jim Prueter

Photographers

David Apeji, Claudia Johnstone, Colleen Katz, Beverly Shumway, Debby Wolvos

Advertising Coordinator

Stacey Richman

stacey@richmanmediagroup.com Contact

Pulse

BY KAYLOR JONES / PHOTOS BY CLAUDIA JOHNSTONE

INSPIRING GREATNESS

How author and motivational speaker Darleen Santore turns setbacks into comebacks

Darleen Santore, better known as “Coach Dar” to her friends and clients, is on a mission to change the world, one person at a time.

“After suffering a stroke in my 20s, I made a deal with God to begin again with a renewed spirit and faith,” Santore says. “Because of that experience, plus two additional strokes and

the loss of both my parents, I learned to ‘embrace the suck’ so I can bounce back harder than ever and help others do the same. Every day since, I’ve dedicated my life to helping others awaken their greatness and live out their life’s purpose.”

As a board-certified occupational therapist, motivational

UP CLOSE / BEAT / HIS STYLE / HER STYLE / NOTICED

speaker, and leadership coach (www.coachdar.com), Santore’s goal to touch as many lives as possible manifests in a myriad of ways. In her consulting business, Performance Meets Purpose, she works with everyone from artists and students to CEOs and professional athletes. Santore, who earned the WNBA’s Most Inspiring Woman Award in 2017, was also the first occupational therapist – and woman – to travel with an NBA team when she served as a mental skills coach to the Phoenix Suns.

Founding Performance Meets Purpose in 2008 took a little bit of luck and a whole lot of perseverance, but combining her passions for science, psychology and leadership turned out to be a perfect fit. “It’s truly been a wonderfully interwoven, kismet story that has brought me to where I am today. I started my career as an occupational therapist, helping people overcome extreme odds such as traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries,” says Santore, who later went back to school to earn a business degree before becoming the president of a healthcare company at just 28 years old. She still draws on each of these experiences every day, whether she’s giving a motivational talk to hundreds or hosting a one-on-one mentorship session.

One of Santore’s favorite parts of her job is the fact that no two days are the same. “From coaching top business leaders to speaking around the world to writing new books, I just love the diversity of it all,” she says. “It all has a common thread – the

ability to come alongside the best of the best as their trusted advisor and coach to help them win not only at business, but at the game of life. And while they say I inspire them, it’s really those clients, players and executives who inspire me.”

A Writer’s Life

This February, Santore released her first book, The Art of Bouncing Back. The book chronicles her proven process for overcoming obstacles, with a special focus on introspection, innovation and inspiration. Chapters touch on identifying the perfect pivot, cultivating strength in times of adversity, and building the confidence, agility, and emotional intelligence to handle whatever life throws at you next.

“With apologies to Benjamin Franklin, there are actually three things in life that are certain – death, taxes, and the fact that sometimes, life will throw you a gut punch. I’ve seen a fair share of calamitous situations in my 25-plus year career, from season-ending injuries to financial devastation, plus my own setbacks, like three strokes before age 45 and the loss of my parents.”

On the night of her book launch party, Santore was in awe of her accomplishment, surrounded by friends who flew in to celebrate the achievement. “Holding the physical copy of the book in my hand for the first time was extremely rewarding and emotional. Writing a book has been a dream of mine since I was a very young child, and it’s almost surreal now that it actually happened,” she says. “At the party, a mentor said to me, ‘Dar, many start but most don’t finish. Congrats for not only finishing but knocking it out of the park’ – this, from a multi-New York Times bestselling author! That was an honor.”

Words to Live By

When it comes to giving advice, Santore always strives to practice what she preaches. While she can often be found meditating and doing cold plunges – two techniques she often recommends to her clients – the most poignant example of this came after her third stroke. When her insurance would no longer cover her rehabilitation, Santore had to pick herself back up and conduct her own rehab using the tools she’d developed as an occupational therapist.

And for people jumping feet first into a new challenge, Santore says the secret is to “go ugly early.”

“The first pass at anything will never be your best, but be sure to position yourself to be as prepared as you can to jump into the game and go. Surround yourself with the right people, seek mentorship, and never stop learning. It’ll get hard – that’s how life works – but when you believe in the service you’re giving, it makes the hard work well worth it.”

At the end of the day, Santore knows that despite all the ups and downs, life has a way of rewarding people who never give up.

“Rather than a who, it is my faith and calling that motivates me – waking up every day to serve God and my life’s mission of awakening greatness in myself and others,” she says. “To touch and influence a billion lives for the better is my inspiration.”

PUTTING KIDS FIRST

Annie Shoen and Nicolle Hood teach children financial literacy through My First Nest Egg

BY KAYLOR JONES / PHOTO BY BEVERLY SHUMWAY

As the founders of childhood financial literacy platform My First Nest Egg, Annie Shoen and Nicolle Hood are dedicated to instilling healthy financial habits from a young age.

During their careers, Hood, a mom of three who worked for nearly two decades as a corporate attorney, and Shoen, who has four kids and a background as an accomplished prosecutor, saw firsthand that problems like low self-worth and high interest rate debt issues were often caused by financial illiteracy. And when the pandemic hit, they were concerned to notice gaps in their own children’s education.

“We started facing difficulties motivating our kids, who were now home 24/7. We must have heard ‘Just buy another one on Amazon’ a million times,” Shoen says. “We realized our kids had no idea what it meant to earn, save and responsibly spend money.”

Joining forces with Hood, whose middle school journal full of business ideas revealed a long-held passion for entrepreneurship, the two best friends took a leap of faith and launched My First Nest Egg (www. myfirstnestegg.com). The app’s curriculum – created with the help of educators and economic experts –helps kids learn the basics of good money habits in less than two minutes per day. These bite-sized lessons focus on age-appropriate tools like puzzles and encourage generosity by rewarding not just monetary donations, but acts of kindness.

Hood, who lives by her grandfather’s motto, “To whom much is given, much will be required,” believes that financial education is the secret to empowering children to break the cycle of poverty.

“As a mom, I feel a great responsibility to set a positive example. I’m so proud that my kids have witnessed the hard work and persistence of two moms who started a company from scratch to help others,” she says.

“Kids are these beautiful blank slates of potential, and it’s our job as grown-ups to give them the skills, tools, and confidence they need to be successful,” Shoen adds. “There are days when this requires epic amounts of patience and energy. The teachers and educators who have a positive impact on the rising generation are true heroes. They wake up every day and make the world a better place, one child at a time.”

MAHJONG MANIA

Ashley Valentine and Colleen Luke offer lessons and a social league with Mod Mahj

BY KAYLOR JONES / PHOTO BY CLAUDIA JOHNSTONE

Ashley Valentine and Colleen Luke are not your average mahjong players. They’re on a personal mission to spread their love for the game, which has attracted countless devotees since its invention in 19th-century China.

Luke, who attended the University of Kansas with one of the founders of The Mahjong Line, remembers being fascinated with the beautiful colors of the brand’s tile sets.

“I always wanted an excuse to buy them. My mother-in-law, an avid and advanced player, was kind enough to teach me the game,” she says. “It checks a lot of boxes – it’s always a challenge and I get to use my brain, to sit down and connect with my friends or family.”

Valentine, who met Luke at the pool when their kids were toddlers, discovered a passion for the game of skill and luck – which has often been compared to Rummy – when she was recovering from a tennis injury.

“I love it because it gives me a break from the daily hustle. It’s almost meditative – and it’s addictive! I’m always trying to get one more game in,” she says.

Combining Valentine’s background in education and Luke’s sales experience and passion for hosting parties, the duo founded Mod Mahj (@modmahj) to introduce the game to more players across the Valley. The company offers lessons on the modern American mahjong variant, setting up the tiles and tablecloths in clients’ homes and serving as a social league for those looking to unplug and enjoy the current moment.

“I like seeing people’s expression when we first introduce the game, then the change in their face when they have their moment of clarity and it all clicks,” says Valentine, who points to the support they’ve received from their original mahjong group as an endless source of encouragement.

As Luke and Valentine have evolved from best friends to neighbors to business partners, their relationship has only strengthened, and with their husbands as their biggest cheerleaders – plus their total of six kids between them – they know the future looks bright.

“When you’re playing the game, it really is beautiful,” Luke says. “We feel excited to be a small part of spreading the glamour of the game that was brought to the U.S. over 100 years ago,” Valentine adds.

YES TO THE DRESS

Boutique owner Shanae Kidd shares her flirty and fun style

BY MANDY HOLMES / PHOTO BY BEVERLY SHUMWAY

Dressing confident girls for every occasion is Shanae Kidd’s mission. As the owner of Girl Hi Boutique, Kidd understands the power of putting on a stylish outfit to instantly elevate your mood.

“I always found myself saying ‘I need a dress for that baby shower or photo shoot or girls night out’ and as busy mom, dresses make deciding on an outfit simple,” says Kidd, noting her boutique offers dresses that aim to complement her customers’ confidence for any occasion.

It's no surprise that Kidd can typically be found wearing a dress, and she loves to incorporate styles with fun cutouts and make a statement in bold colors.

“As I become older, I care less what people think, I don’t necessarily follow trends and learned to dress for my changing body and what I feel confident in,” she says.

On the rare occasion Kidd is not rocking a dress, you can find her in a neutral-colored body suit and black jeans.

“I am a huge fan of black jeans because you can dress them up or down and they are flattering,” she says.

What is your fashion advice? I lean into fun and confidence; I don't think you can go wrong when you feel both of those things! I don't think anyone needs to keep up with trends that don't suit them and don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone.

Who are your style inspirations? My style icons are Zendaya, Rihanna, Hailey Bieber and Meghan Markle. They are all very different but that's why I love them all – I pull aspects of each of them into my style. They all exude such confidence and uniqueness!

What are your favorite brands and stores? I love H&M for basics, House of CB for style, and I also still find fun pieces at Forever 21. I don't think you have to spend thousands or buy designer brands to look good. I am all about quality and affordability.

CHEERS TO STYLE

Darby Cerbo is confident in her fashion-forward, glam getups

BY MANDY HOLMES / PHOTO BY BEVERLY SHUMWAY

As a trauma/emergency nurse and former Arizona Cardinals cheerleader, Darby Cerbo has spent the majority of her life in scrubs and workout sets. When the newlywed is off the clock, she describes her style as “neutral yet glam and girly.”

“My style has become more timeless. Although I love seeing trends and draw inspiration from them, I like to buy pieces that are true to my personal style,” she says.

Though she has a few favorites, don’t expect Cerbo to dedicate all her love to one specific brand or designer.

“I love Nadine Merabi for quality jumpsuits and House of CB for its flattering corset tops and adorable dresses,” Cerbo says.

The fashionista finds inspiration from the brands and people she follows on social media.

“I love the fashion aspect of social media and that people are free to creatively express their personal style,” she says. “I draw a lot of inspiration from watching YouTube videos from European influencers.”

Cerbo, whose most prized outfit to date is her wedding dress, is no stranger to the power of social media as a video of her wedding party dance she choreographed and performed recently went viral.

What are your favorite colors and styles to wear? I love to wear neutrals – white, black and brown! For dresses, I have always been a midi dress girl. It flatters my body best and they are always so comfortable while being cute!

What is your must-have item? Jewelry! It can dress up or dress down any look.

What are your favorite stores? Revolve, ASOS, Free People, Anthropologie, and Zara, to name a few. I am an online shopper and all of these brands have beautiful styles that I know will come in and be just as beautiful in person as they were online.

THE ARTRAGEOUS GALA

Scottsdale Arts’ Bloom event celebrated visual and preforming arts at Scottsdale Civic Center

BY BEVERLY SHUMWAY

Farrah Graham

Alexandra Moquay

LeAnn McElyea

Jeannine Gillikin

Erin Dahdah

Veronica Aguilar

ROOFTOP 2023

Mountain Shadows set the scene for a night under the stars in support of Homeward Bound

BY BEVERLY SHUMWAY

Alli Meador

Patty Sapp

Codi Evick

Francis Aprile

Jean Herges

Lynette Carrington

BY KAYLOR JONES / PHOTOS BY CLAUDIA JOHNSTONE

A well-crafted ensemble is an art form that takes a keen eye. Here, five women share their takes on looking fashionable and how they dress to impress, no matter where the day leads.

Content Creator, What Lola Likes

Lauren “Lola” Davies, a Phoenix-based content creator and mom of two, is all about contemporary fashion that matches her mood, whether she’s sharing her new favorite trends on her popular Instagram page (@whatlolalikes) or sporting an Alo lounge set at home. “I started my platform to journal and share style inspiration, and now I work full time creating content for some of the most amazing brands. I’m lucky that my job allows me to be flexible for my girls and use my creative side while sharing my personal journey.” Since a night out can be rare, when Davies gets the opportunity, she aims to be overdressed rather than under. Her best style advice is to choose which body part to accentuate – if she feels like showing off her legs, for instance, she balances the outfit with a high-necked or baggy shirt. Her go-to brands and stores when online shopping include Revolve, Reformation, and Vehla Eyewear, gravitating toward pieces that pair well with a staple pair of white sneakers or combat boots. And while Davies feels no outfit is complete without a healthy dash of confidence, there are some accessories she’ll never go without, like her grandmother’s diamond ring, her grandfather’s necklace, and anything handed down to her from her mother.

MAKEUP BY ZAC PHOENIX / LOCATION: THE HERMOSA INN

Phoenix Mercury Player

Professional athlete Sophie Cunningham’s style strikes the perfect balance between athletic and elegant. When she’s not on the court or in the gym – Adidas is her favorite brand for workouts and streetwear alike – she’s often on the sidelines as a guest analyst for the Phoenix Suns. Being on TV calls for something classy but sultry, like a matching suit or a romper from Free People or Zara paired with gold accessories. Cunningham is no stranger to staring at her closet wondering what to wear, so she tries to build off of neutral basics that help her mix and match new outfits without overwearing the same statement pieces. On weekends, she enjoys hiking with her Aussiedoodle Brutus and going to a concert or comedy show with friends, the latter typically calling for a minidress or oversized trousers paired with a cropped top. As a public figure, Cunningham knows that fashion is part of your personal branding, and being 6-foot-1 often means that all eyes are on her. “It’s really fun to be tall. I like to show girls that it’s OK to embrace who you are, to have muscles, to be bigger than the boys. You’ve got to embrace it – pull your shoulders back, hold your head high, and put on those heels!”

It’s long been Whitney Clark’s dream to be a news anchor for Arizona’s Family, waking up at 2 a.m. and all. On workdays, the SoCal native, who interned for Good Morning Arizona while attending Arizona State University, typically reaches for a wrap dress, a pantsuit or a structured blazer with jeans. She likes to keep things fun with a bold pattern or color, plus some faux fur or faux leather accents when the mood strikes. While Clark loves to rent clothes for special events, the majority of her vintage-heavy wardrobe is secondhand, with an emphasis on fit and material over brand names – though she has a soft spot for a good pair of Levi’s. “I like to find unique pieces that beg the question ‘Where did you get that?’ Sustainability in fashion is important to me and I try to make conscious choices when choosing where I buy clothes. I still have dresses in my closet that I got in college.” Among her prized possessions are the antique engagement ring and watch given to her by her fiancé. With marriage on the horizon, Clark is looking to keep their nontraditional nuptials timeless and romantic, with a hint of old Hollywood glamour.

Sometimes, a good outfit is all about the shoes. And while radio personality Priscilla Ornelas can be pretty easygoing about her style, you’ll never find her in a dirty pair of sneakers. “I have this thing about shoes being clean. I don’t care if they’re 10 years old, they won’t look wrecked!” The first-generation Mexican American, mom to two girls, and founder of community-focused nonprofit, Community Comadres, typically spends her busy days in jeans and a fun T-shirt – like a graphic Selena tee –topped off with Jordans and a pair of hoop earrings. Ornelas, who describes her sense of style as “intentional and mood-based,” prides herself on always matching the vibe of an event, knowing the perfect time to thrown on a satin blouse and stilettos and when to break out an evening gown. Her wardrobe embodies the maxim that you don’t have to spend a lot of money to look good, featuring pieces from Zara, American Eagle, and Forever 21. No matter what the day holds, Ornelas makes sure she always dresses for herself rather than letting others’ opinions determine what she wears. Her number one fashion tip? “You don’t have to be a certain size to follow a trend. No matter your size, wear it! Rock it!”

Content Creator, Collectively Candice

Candice Mathis’ style is just as adaptable as she is. As a blogger, personal stylist, and travel planner with certifications in nutrition, cosmetology and wine, Mathis (@collectivelycandice) prefers her clothes comfortable and classic, with some trendier pieces thrown in to keep things fresh. “Most people can relate that my duties as a mom tend to come first, so it’s school drop-offs, dance classes, tennis, and language lessons. Then there’s finding time to stay fit and take care of our sweet puppy.” Add working from home to the mix and most days, Mathis reaches for a set of gym clothes, throwing on loafers and a white button-down or blazer if she needs to run to a meeting. For a night out, she likes matching a flirty top with jeans and a chic heel, often gravitating to neutrals or warm tones like orange and pink. Mathis’ passion for wine also extends to her sense of fashion. Taking cues from designers like Isabel Marant, she’s passionate about putting together French- and vintage-inspired outfits that look just as at home on a vineyard as they do when actually at home with a glass of wine in hand. When in doubt, Mathis turns to Carmel Snow’s time-honored quote: “Elegance is good taste, plus a dash of daring.”

Kimberly Tocco A breakthrough intuitive helping others find purpose and abundance

When tragedy happens, there are several paths forward a person can take. When Kimberly Tocco’s 13-year-old son took his life twelve years ago, she started down the path to change the cycle of suicide by helping people heal and realize that life, for all its hardships, is always worth living.

Since the tragedy, Kimberly wrote a number one best-selling book, Overcome: Memoirs of a Suicide, which has reached over 1 million people with a goal of reaching 10 million. She also delved deeply into the world of metaphysics, studying with individual masters and at the Delphi Metaphysical University to heal herself and help clients better identify their goals and relieve the stress and anxiety that comes with making a life-changing transaction.

Kimberly is highly successful in real estate thanks in part to her education. She’s tuned her experiential expertise to become one of the country’s only agents offering a full metaphysical experience when purchasing or selling a home. “We

serve to reset a person’s mind, body, and soul through a series of different modalities of meditations, movement, energy healing, past life regression, purpose mapping, and of course, the magic of clearing the foundation of where we work and live,” she said.

In addition to being a successful real estate agent and author, Kimberly is highly sought after as a trained solutionist and energy healer who has been mentored by people like Stormy Wellington, Joe Buzello, Alex Morton, Brian Rand, Rey Perez, Russell Shaw and Delphi Metaphysical University. She’s also a popular podcast host and has been a featured speaker throughout the country, sharing her journey of healing and success and offering 1,2, or 3 day life changing experiences to heal the soul.

The loss of a child often inspires people to turn a tragedy into something positive. Kimberly says she’s inspired and motivated to do what she does by the broken-hearted, downtrodden, and those who

have overcome. “Each time I see a person strive for more and want a better life, I am inspired because I know what it takes, and I am here to empower, enlighten, and bring joy back into their lives,” she said.

This year will be busy for Kimberly, as she’s launching various modalities and programs along with another book Tenacious Angels and traveling across the country to help people to heal, learn, and bring love back into the world. “We’re building a global presence to encourage the meek, the powerful, the broken-hearted, and the strong to come together in unity, power, and love, for this is what the world has forgotten; love is all there is.”

In addition to her real estate and speaking work, Kimberly supports various charities, including those that help starving children in third world countries, suicide prevention, disaster organizations, and Tenacious Angels to support those who need healing retreats.

To contact Kimberly Tocco visit www.kimt360.com.

Today’s culture is fixated on “doing it all.” With so many lofty expectations and social pressures, it’s easy to let your health and well-being become a distant priority. We wind up rundown and depleted, exhausted and burned out, while vying to portray ourselves living our “best lives.” Meanwhile, we’re only becoming more stressed and sicker.

Dr. Stacie J. Stephenson, doctor, business owner, philanthropist, public speaker, and best-selling author, acknowledges this unfortunate fact, and urges us to shift our priorities immediately. “There is an immense amount of pressure and information for women (and men) to be fit, look great, never age, cook like a gourmet chef without calories, keep a perfect home, have a fulfilling relationship, grow an organic garden, be totally eco-friendly, and have the most Zen attitude—not to mention all the latest parenting trends, dietary trends, and social media expectations that create even more pressure to appear perfect. So many impossibly high standards!” says Dr. Stephenson.

“I show women that they can be realistic about who they are, what they want, and what they are able to do, and still take care of themselves and feel good.”

This belief is the cornerstone of what has made Dr. Stephenson so pivotal in the field of functional and integrative medicine. “Your mental and physical health are paramount to your success and happiness,” she says. “Only by nurturing yourself can you best nurture others. We so often feel guilty taking care of ourselves, as if it’s a luxury or as if it means we are neglecting our many responsibilities, but it’s actually the opposite. Taking care of yourself is the best thing you can do to make it easier for you to meet your responsibilities with care and attention!”

Dr. Stephenson’s journey began while attending medical school, where she was dissatisfied with the disease-oriented approach to medicine. “Nobody was talking about health,” she says. “Only disease.” Dr. Stephenson felt that, instead of solving problems with pharmaceuticals and surgery, we should instead focus on

lifestyle interventions aimed at restoring one’s natural vitality, and so she founded VibrantDoc, geared towards providing women and men with the tools they need to regain control of their health.

“Self-care is not only possible, but essential for thriving in a busy world in which we are often expected to do it all and be everything to everyone,” says Dr. Stephenson. “Only you can ultimately decide what you’re going to eat, how much you’re going to exercise, and how you will manage your stress. The power is in your hands!”

Dr. Stephenson applied her medical knowledge and passion for healthy living in her previous best-selling book Vibrant, and plans to do the same again in a new book called Glow. As Dr. Stephenson explains, Glow “builds on Vibrant’s foundation with twice-daily tips and strategies for health and stress management.” Glow is set to release on July 4th, 2023.

To contact Dr. Stephenson visit www.drstaciestephenson.com.

Dr. Stacie J. Stephenson

Dr. Stacie J. Stephenson is vibrancy personified

Carla Pelosi

Having a golden glow year-round is possible thanks to Bronzed by Bully

You might not think there would be a need for tanning in sunny Scottsdale, but spray tanning and alternatives to outdoor sun tanning are becoming more popular thanks to the even coverage they supply without harsh rays. Licensed aesthetician Carla Pelosi, who has a passion for bringing out the beauty in others, saw an opportunity and started her company Boutique Bully 14 years ago at Sachi Studios before incorporating Bronzed By Bully six years ago where she remains today.

Carla’s motto is, “Get bronzed, get beautiful, get confident.” To help customers accomplish that, she also provides teeth whitening and a clothing boutique. With many years under her belt, the Bully brand is a staple in the community. “I have poured a lot of time and energy into making Bronzed by Bully what it is today,” she says. “I’m dedicated to providing my clients with the best possible service and results.”

Carla underwent extensive training

and education to become a licensed aesthetician and spray tan artist. “I gained experience working in the beauty and fashion industry. It takes a lot of hard work, dedication, and passion to build and maintain a successful business,” she shares.

The tanning offered by Bronzed Bully is hand-sprayed with a state-of-the-art airbrush tanning gun, and tans are available in custom organic, gluten-free, paraben free, and vegan. And, to compliment her client’s sun-kissed bronzed bodies, Bronzed by Bully provides teeth whitening services for a brighter, more confident smile and a unique selection of clothing items to complete the look.

Although not the only company to offer spray tanning, Carla says Bronzed by Bully stands apart from the competition because they provide unique services, expertise, and superior customer service. To further separate her company from the rest, Carla is bringing a revolutionary skin-tightening treatment, Sentient

Sculpt to her company and will be the sole provider in Arizona. “I will be the exclusive carrier of a cutting-edge device from Europe that will revolutionize the way we think about body treatments,” she says. “This treatment has been shown to provide remarkable results for clients struggling with cellulite and sagging skin.”

When she’s not minding the store or seeking new ways to help people improve their appearance and self-confidence, Carla enjoys being the mother of three young men who she says inspire her to be the best woman and business owner she can be. She also enjoys traveling and strives to find joy and humor in everyday life.

Carla’s expertise, dedication to staying on top of new beauty techniques, and her commitment to the highest-quality customer service makes her a woman to watch this year.

To contact Carla at Bronzed by Bully visit www.bronzedbybully.com or call 602.410.8818.

The Luckys

You need many skills and traits, including hard work, dedication, and market knowledge, to find and purchase your perfect home, but you’ll also need a little bit of luck. In North Scottsdale, we’re not talking about good fortune so much as we’re referring to the dynamo Lucky family. Lisa Lucky works alongside her husband, Matt and their daughter Laura to assist buyers and sellers achieve their real estate goals.

The Luckys have been thriving in the North Scottsdale real estate market for more than twenty years, which has helped the mother-daughter driven team become premier professionals in the community. They have a well-run marketing machine, taking pride in providing exceptional marketing backed by superior service.

Lisa attributes the team’s success to determination, people skills, and remaining geographically-situated as to offer intimate knowledge of the area surrounding the properties they choose to buy and sell. “We find that specializing

geographically keeps us well informed and allows us to give top notch best service to our clients,” says Lisa. “We are a small yet effective team that is detail oriented and highly communicative.”

As residents of the region, the Luckys are able to sell not only the property itself, but the area as well, including local attractions, restaurants, and lifestyle features that make it an attractive place to work, start a family, or simply live your best life. “We are always on the move and shifting to the market. A lot has changed in our marketplace on how we market a home and strategies for purchasing in today’s market,” says Lisa. “We have seen a shift in demand to focus more on lifestyle and golf.”

Today, the Luckys are known to be regulars on the golf course, enjoying nine holes before socializing with friends afterwards, or “nine and wine” as they call it. The Luckys also love trying new restaurants, always searching for new recommendations for clients and other

newcomers to the Scottsdale area as well as features for their monthly newsletter “Live Beautifully.”

Between buying and selling some of the area’s most sought-after properties to driving growth to local businesses like restaurants and golf courses, the Luckys are always on the pulse of what’s happening in Scottsdale. Their secret? Excellent people skills, of course! “We love meeting and getting to know new clients,” says Lisa. “We love how our base of clients has grown and we look forward to continued growth.”

So, what’s in store for the Luckys moving forward? In January 2023, Laura welcomed her daughter Kaia into the world, and Lisa’s already envisioning a future where she, Laura, and Kaia comprise three generations of brokers at Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty. “You never know,” says Lisa, regarding Kaia, “she could be in the family business one day!”

To contact Lisa or Laura Lucky visit www.LisaLucky.com or call 602.320.8415.

Lisa and Laura Lucky exude credibility, commitment, and determination

Everyone needs a place to grow and challenge themselves and, for Scottsdale’s fitness enthusiasts, that place is DEFINE Pilates, founded by Ashley Jahner.

After eight years as a Pilates instructor, Jahner felt Scottsdale was in dire need of a studio that would feature experienced instructors, a welcoming atmosphere, and an undeniable sense of style. “I worked at some exceptional places teaching, but knew I wanted more, more for my team, myself and most importantly, my clients,” says Jahner. “ A studio that was pristine, inviting and produced results so that the clients never felt forgotten.”

From her vision, and after having her second baby, Jahner decided it was time to open her own studio where every body is embraced to become the very best, both physically and mentally. DEFINE Pilates was born in 2022. “We pride ourselves in providing a luxurious studio where everyone can come for a challenging workout while cultivating friendships with those

who share their same interests,” Jahner says. “We work with you on your fitness goals so that your ‘why’ is never forgotten.”

Her client-focused approach is what distinguishes DEFINE Pilates from other studios in the valley. Regardless of your fitness level, Jahner and her team offer a diverse range of workouts that sculpt, elongate, and strengthen both the mind and body. The skilled instructors lead the 50-minute classes that utilize equipment and props to elevate your practice while focusing on form by using slow controlled movement to target muscles you never knew existed!

In 2023, Jahner is working to obtain her certification in nutrition and coaching, enhancing her members’ experience and equipping them with every resource available to achieve their fitness and health goals.

Her desire for constant improvement stems from a background in post-operative care in plastic surgery. After working alongside some of the top professionals in the

Scottsdale area for more than six years, Jahner left her scrubs behind, searching for a way to continue helping others and create a better work-life balance.

DEFINE Pilates provided that for her, and she now enjoys more time with her husband, Michael, and her two lovely little girls. While Jahner refers to being a mother as the most challenging job, she also cites it as the most fulfilling, and makes it her mission to show her daughters that you can be a mother, wife, friend, and business owner. If you can dream it, you can achieve it.

It’s that unwavering dedication that Jahner brings into each session at DEFINE Pilates. If you are seeking an exceptional experience, DEFINE Pilates is the studio for you. “We truly have the best clientele and the best group of instructors,” Jahner says. “Coming to DEFINE doesn’t feel like a job, it truly is my happy place.”

To contact Ashley at Define Pilates visit www.definepilatesaz.com or call 480.903.8151.

Ashley Jahner

DEFINE Pilates has a fierce and fit following thanks to Ashley Jahner

CarolAnn Tutera

SottoPelle® is the valley’s leading provider of bioidentical pellet hormone therapy (BHRT), offering a physician-led and personalized approach to age management healthcare. At the helm is CarolAnn Tutera - President and CEO of SottoPelle® and Tutera Medical.

Using sophisticated data, technology, and metabolic science, The SottoPelle® Method delivers the best health solutions to patients in the valley. BHRT is an excellent option for those seeking improved energy and vitality, increased muscle mass, and decreased bone loss as they age. In addition to BHRT, Tutera Medical provides patients with other wellness services.

What benefits can one seek to obtain with hormone replacement therapy? “As we age, our hormones and bodies don’t work quite the same as they used to. Bioidentical hormone treatment is a great option for those wanting improved energy and vitality, a decrease in bone loss, and increase in muscle mass,” CarolAnn says.

CarolAnn, the wife of the late Dr. Gino Tutera, has been a patient for 26 years and is a leading voice in the field. Pellet therapy was pioneered by Dr. Tutera, who played a critical role in its reemergence in 1992. He began using Bioidentical progesterone in 1979 to prevent pregnancy loss. This treatment was not without criticism, but it nevertheless helped a great many people. “We’ve always followed the science of the pellets. We’re always doing lab work, where a lot of others don’t. It was Dr. Tutera who was first working in this space when he learned about pellets and developed the individualization of pellets for every patient,” says Tutera, on what sets SottoPelle® apart from others in the industry.

Today, the team of experts help patients struggling with sleep management, low libido, poor energy levels, anxiety, and other common effects of hormone depletion.

SottoPelle’s reputation is

world-renowned as the gold standard in the field for medically based approaches that are meant to inspire clients to address all areas of their life and health— from physical fitness to mental and emotional well-being.

CarolAnn is passionate about peak wellness and vibrant health, and her team has incorporated multiple safeguards into their treatment to ensure patients’ comfort, safety, and satisfaction. Tutera Medical has been listed as one of the best HRT offices at Ranking Arizona for seven years in addition to be named Vanity Fair’s Women to Watch and Phoenix Magazine’s face of HRT for four consecutive years. She believes in providing patients with the best care at affordable prices, making SottoPelle® a go-to destination for locals and patients worldwide.

To contact the office, visit www.sottopelletherapy.com or www.tuteramedical.com or call 480.874.1515.

CarolAnn Tutera is the leader behind SottoPelle®

What do you picture when you imagine an accountant? Are you envisioning a stuffy poindexter, glasses falling off his nose, feverishly fixing his gaze on his computer monitor and calculator? CPAs certainly have a strong stereotype, but Shayne R. Neuwirth is redefining the profession and has been since 2011 when she opened her own woman-owned and operated firm in Scottsdale.

“A lot of women didn’t feel comfortable asking questions or reaching out to their CPA. They were often excluded from the conversation or overlooked,” says Neuwirth. “I wanted to provide accounting services for women while being savvy, attentive, and approachable.”

What truly sets Neuwirth and her team apart from other, more traditional-type firms in the Scottsdale area, is that she marries technical chops with a woman’s touch. “I am a strong technical CPA…strive to keep up-to-date with industry regulations, software, and technology to ensure accuracy and quality of

work,” she says. “I also have empathy and emotional intelligence. I am able to understand and relate to others’ perspectives and feelings and can help create positive relationships.”

Today, Shayne R. Neuwirth CPA PLLC is thriving, having earned a #1 ranking by Ranking Arizona for CPA firms of 3 CPAs or less for the fifth year in a row. Every day, through excellence, she’s dispelling the antiquated poindexter stereotype and reinventing what it means to look like and perform like a top-tier CPA in the accounting and finance industries.

“The accounting and finance industries have been male-dominated. Being a female business owner and CPA drives me to push myself and achieve success and be a source of motivation for other women,” says Neuwirth. “My CPA firm is committed to empowering women by providing them with opportunities for growth and leadership.”

Shayne understands that as her client’s business grows, the accounting

needs evolve as well. She and her team are on top of the changes and will proactively guide her clients through the growth process.

In 2023, Neuwirth expanded her team to continue providing exceptional support to nearly 1800 tax clients. Her staff now includes a third CPA to assist with business and personal taxes and an accounting manager to work with business clients on their monthly accounting needs

“Shayne R. Neuwirth CPA PLLC was included in the Sun Devil 100 for fasting growing companies run by Arizona State University Alumni [in 2021,2022 and 2023]...I have also been recognized as one of the five most influential accountants…by the Arizona Business Leaders annual publication,” says Neuwirth. “In the next 5 years, I envision our firm becoming a trailblazer in the industry, known for its innovative solutions, exceptional customer service, and commitment to diversity and inclusion.”

To contact Shayne R. Neuwirth visit www.SRNCPA.com or call 480.393.0755.

Shayne R. Neuwirth

Shayne R. Neuwirth knows what your business needs to run smoothly

To say the real estate world is competitive is an understatement. The best agents must constantly leverage their abilities, including ample market knowledge, well-honed negotiation skills, and extensive contract experience, to guarantee the best outcomes for their clients.

This is especially crucial for luxury properties, when the stakes are high and the competition is even more cutthroat. Having an esteemed professional like Allison Cahill, Esq. of Allison Cahill & Partners Luxury Properties in your corner is one of the best ways to ensure you’re getting what you want out of your real estate dealings.

“I represent my clients to the fullest,” says Cahill. “I want to ensure that they never leave money on the table.” Cahill gets results because she’s more than just one of the best luxury real estate agents in Scottsdale; she’s also a Designated Broker at The Agency, “the fastest growing brokerage in the world,” responsible

for the success of sixty-one other agents. That’s not all. Cahill also has a background in law, formerly working as an attorney in Chicago, before she pivoted, moved to sunny Scottsdale, and began a career in real estate instead. “My background as a corporate attorney has been such an asset,” says Cahill. “I love negotiating contracts to get the best deals for my clients.”

After all, who’s better at negotiating a contract than a former contract lawyer?

Cahill never intended to become a full-time agent, starting down her new career path in real estate when her two children were very young. Her intention was to invest in properties to help provide a Passive Income stream, but it became so much more.

Before long, friends and family were recruiting Cahill to assist in real estate transitions, negotiations, and contracts. Before she knew it, Cahill was a full-time luxury real estate agent and “today loving every minute” of it.

Cahill chose to leave the world of law behind, mostly, and pursue real estate for her children, but it’s not just her own children she cares for. She also works extensively with a number of charities in order to “make the world a better place for children.”

“I am currently the Vice-President of the Board of Directors for Scottsdale Area Association of Realtors and on the Board of Directors for Arizona Association of Realtors,” Cahill says. “I am also busy leading a team for Agents Benefiting Children through the Saguaros and have served on the Board of Trustees for Scottsdale Arts and the Leadership Circle for Phoenix Children’s Hospital. I have also been a member of the National Charity League and supported Homeward Bound.”

Of her charitable works, Cahill states” I want to help make a difference in Scottsdale.”

To contact Allison Cahill visit www.allisoncahill.com or call 215.262.7066.

Allison Cahill, Esq.

Allison Cahill is your luxury real estate expert

As the business landscape shifts to a predominantly online marketplace, it’s never been more imperative to prioritize your online presence.

One of the most crucial aspects of competing in this new age is SEO, or “search engine optimization”, as outranking your competition in popular search engines like Google could be the difference between skyrocketing sales or fading into the background while other companies take the lion’s share.

To capitalize on these new trends, it’s important to focus your advertising in a way that caters to new consumer habits. Brenda Bryan, founder of The Bryan Agency, understands this, and makes it her mission to incorporate proven digital marketing strategies that help every client improve their SEO rankings and outshine their competition.

“Our services are a blend of both creative and technical tactics and strategies with the goal of helping our clients’ businesses be prominent online when a user

searches for what they offer,” shared Bryan. Bryan’s success in marketing stems from a background in communications, for which she received a bachelor’s degree from Anderson University. She would go on to earn a master’s degree in Business and Health Sciences from Northern Arizona University and ultimately accept a position as the Chief Marketing Officer at a national health management firm. Bryan is also a member of the Phoenix Business Journal Leadership Trust.

“I started my marketing journey as marketing was making a big shift from traditional to digital,” says Bryan. “It was a fantastic time to start my career. I love how dynamic marketing has become.”

These changes inspired Bryan to open her own agency. “I knew that I wanted to open an agency that focused primarily on digital marketing services,” she says. “If you are the leader of a business, you should without question be investing in your online presence.”

What sets Bryan apart from others

in the industry is staying on top of industry changes and leveraging those for her clients’ success. “We’ve developed a creative and proprietary way of leveraging technologies like ChatGPT to deliver more high-quality SEO content and maximize our clients’ investment and amplify results,” shared Bryan.

She summarized, “Digital marketing is a dynamic industry, always being impacted by algorithm changes like Google’s. It’s our job to stay on top of these changes and leverage them to our clients’ benefit.”

Bryan enjoys giving back to the community by supporting the arts and programs such as the Arizona Department of Child Safety’s Giving Tree Program. This past holiday season, The Bryan Agency was honored to provide gifts to over a dozen kids for the holiday season. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, yoga and Pilates, the arts, and travel.

To contact Brenda Bryan visit www.thebryanagency.net or call 602.561.9758.

Brenda Bryan

Brenda Bryan leverages digital marketing to connect with customers

Holly Henbest

If you don’t know the ropes, buying or selling a home can appear like a maze of unfeasible tasks. Hence, why it’s important for someone who knows the ropes. A fighter for you in the ring. That’s where Holly Henbest comes in.

Passion, creativity and fearless are three words that best describe Holly. She has a deep love and passion for her industry and ability to help people achieve their real estate and financial goals. She’s also constantly striving to improve her team’s processes, procedures, marketing efforts and ultimately their results. Never afraid to take a risk, she’s fearless and it’s that risk taking quality that led her to real estate.

Capitalizing on her extensive corporate experience and love of the valley, real estate was always a dream career and one she decided to leap into when her son was just 3 years old. Looking back, she knows it was the best and scariest career decision she ever made.

In 2006, Holly formed the Henbest Team. Her father, Tom then joined her in

2007, and since then, the team has evolved and grown. “Having a team has never been more important. One person can’t be in multiple places at once, and one person can’t wear all the hats the business needs. We’re a small but mighty team and I’m proud of the talent and skills each individual contributes to elevate our customer experience and results,” she says.

What sets the Henbest Team apart from the rest is their focused attention on what their clients need and how best to help them achieve their goals with honesty and integrity. “When a buyer is evaluating a home, we want to be sure it suits their needs, so if there is something that causes concern, we let them know,” she reveals.

And their sellers get the same attention too. “For our sellers, we want to set accurate expectations. We’ve finely tuned a listing and marketing strategy for our listings that generate outstanding results,” she says.

Holly’s passion and commitment

and her reputation in the industry have garnered her repeat clients over the years and many more that have come from referrals. “We have clients that have done six to ten transactions with us over the years and even more who have done three to five. We also have represented multiple generations,” she shares.

She’s ranked in the Top ½ of 1% of Agents in AZ and has been recognized by the Phoenix Business Journal as a Top Agent and The Scottsdale Women’s Council of Realtors awarded Holly as one of the Top 10 Women in Real Estate last year.

Holly and her team have a devoted following on Instagram thanks to their creativity. “In addition to real estate advice, we like to highlight places we love including restaurants, shops and road trip destinations around Arizona. To us living in Arizona is not just about the house, but about the neighborhood,” Holly says.

To contact Holly Henbest visit www.henbest.com or call 480.266.8785.

Holly Henbest knows experience matters in today’s real estate market

Real estate is a very competitive industry. Agents must develop valuable skills in order to set themselves apart from their peers and get an edge that makes them the best choice for their clients. So, what makes Kelly Griffin Porter an excellent choice for her clients?

At a glance, her background as a marketing and advertising executive translates into, as she puts it, “impeccable marketing,” helping her get results when marketing properties that other agents couldn’t hold a candle to.

Beyond this, Griffin Porter is a professional through and through with a refreshingly positive “can-do attitude” and a passion for getting results. Plus, she’s always willing to go the extra mile for her clients. “When people ask ‘What do you do?’ I say, ‘Whatever it takes!’” says Griffin Porter.

Hailing from Phoenix comes with advantages other agents don’t have: that of long-term relationships and an expansive network of connections that includes landscapers, roofers, contractors, lenders

and agents. Kelly has insider knowledge of the market that only comes from time and provides clients with a unique concierge style service.

This unyielding commitment to her clients and their success is what’s made Griffin Porter a premier agent, team leader, and co-owner of her professional real estate agency in Scottsdale, advertising, buying, and selling properties and mentoring other agents as well.

“We are a ‘solution minded’ team,” she says. “We find solutions to the many challenges that arrive and navigate through the process to get our clients to their goals.”

Her dedication to success and mentorship of her team has yielded some very positive results. Currently, Griffin Porter’s Scottsdale operation is expanding into Tucson and other areas of Northern Arizona. “We’re growing a team of dedicated agents to help as many people as possible,” she says regarding what’s on the horizon for 2023.

When Griffin Porter isn’t hustling to

help Scottsdale residents buy and sell homes on the market, she’s working with charities to help the homeless find homes too. “I do fundraisers for the Phoenix Mission to help the homeless,” she says. “They are an incredible organization that helps the unfortunate get on the track to success after hardship.”

From charitable works to professional accomplishments, it seems there’s nothing Griffin Porter isn’t doing. And whatever it is she’s doing, she’s always making sure to do it with the biggest smile on her face. “Whatever I’m doing, I’m having fun! Working, dancing, shopping,” she says. “If it’s not fun, I’m outta there!”

It’s this boundless joy and her unwavering passion for real estate and results that make her an undisputed top pick for real estate professionals in the Scottsdale area, and we’ll be very excited to find out what else is in store for Kelly in the future.

To contact Kelly Porter Griffin visit www.KellyPorterGriffin.com or call 602.739.5060.

Kelly Griffin Porter Kelly Griffin Porter does whatever it takes for her clients

Flying private is a booming business and Cynthia Thomas has seen a transformation from private aviation being a luxury to an essential part of Paradise Jets lifestyle. “We view our role with every client to be their guide, advisor and advocate,” she shares.

In 2008 Cynthia fell in love with the industry when she first met her husband who is passionate about aviation too. Before she stepped into her role as Sr. Vice President at Paradise Jets, Cynthia worked as a licensed Realtor and as Director of flight control, and Corporate Fight Attendant. Her diverse background and extensive knowledge of the aviation industry including the intricacies of operations planning allow her to strengthen Paradise Jets client relationships through the implementation of strategic planning, technology, and customer service enhancements.

“Our full-service team offers consultation, charter, acquisition, sales, and management services to help clients plan,

build, and manage private jet operations at any scale,” Cynthia shares. Paradise Jets just unveiled a very exciting program, The Paradise Destination Club, which offers both a jet co-ownership and block charter to make access to private air travel affordable without compromising safety. “This new program far exceeds our competition,” she says.

Cynthia’s obsession with customer service and outstanding financial results set her business apart. Taking a dedicated and data-driven approach to her work, she is able to help clients invest efficiently, meet their financial goals and expectations, and enjoy the most streamlined private flight operations possible. Going above and beyond by providing Paradise Jets customers with an unmatched level of service and support is what drives Cynthia. “I am inspired and motivated by all the possibilities and creative ways to make moments special for people,” Cynthia says. “I love finding the little creative ways to tell our clients we

care, whether it’s having our flight crew wear Mickey Mouse ears when flying passengers to Disney or having their favorite cocktail waiting for their arrival! It is always so fun to show our clients that they matter.”

Flying in a private jet is one of the best ways to travel, and Cynthia and the Paradise Jets team know how to balance a fun client-focused experience with expert decisions based on data and results. “We are “fun nerds” that study markets and data to guide our clients towards success,” she says. You might be surprised to learn the advantages you can get when chartering or owning a private jet and how cost effective they can be. “We work hard to find innovative ways to make access to private jets affordable and safe,” she shares. Outside of work, Cynthia enjoys spending time with her husband and daughters, traveling and exploring the mountains of Arizona.

To contact Cynthia Thomas visit www.paradisejets.com or call 800.898.8979.

Cynthia Thomas Cynthia Thomas offers exceptional journeys for globetrotting travelers

Jennifer Hall is the founder of CURV Body Lounge, a wellness and healing facility located in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale. Created with the vision of solely focusing on lymphatic drainage all while bringing knowledge and amazing health benefits to women and men in the greater Phoenix area. From the moment you walk into CURV Body Lounge you are instantly captivated by the bright and airy facility with their custom scent throughout.

Lymphatic drainage is becoming ever more popular amongst beauty experts, celebrities and specifically Scottsdale residents thanks to the healing properties including increased circulation, smoothing of cellulite and reduced inflammation.

CURV is the first facility of its kind to offer this technique in the valley.

The services at CURV reduce swelling and inflammation, promotes healing, reduces toxins, helps with breaking down scar tissue and contributes to the best circulation possible. “You will leave with a feeling of a clearer mind and your body feeling lighter. Our

clients often leave their session saying how relaxed they feel,” Jennifer shares.

The CURV method uses a blend of European and Brazilian modalities that stimulate the lymphatic system for wellness and post op recovery. “Our signature Detox + Sculpt Lymphatic Drainage is the best of both worlds; you get a full body lymphatic drainage which includes sculpting all of your curves with our signature blend of oils and wooden tools,” Hall says.

At CURV you can choose between a 55-minute or an 85-minute session. For those dedicated to living in their best self, packages and memberships are available.

Growing up in a family of male entrepreneurs, Jennifer always knew she would own her own business. “This is the second company I have started from the bottom up. My team is growing and thriving with the dedication and ethics I have instilled from the start, and it makes me smile seeing my dream become my reality” she shares. “It’s what makes CURV Body Lounge so special, we strive to create a

unique and first-class experience for every one of our clients. It’s why our level of care is unmatched.”

With the support of numerous surgeons in the valley, CURV was established to bridge the gap in quality post op care and recovery. For anyone who has undergone cosmetic/plastic surgery, post-partum, cancer or any other surgery, the post-op services use light pressure with gentle movements. “Our treatments drive out toxins, smooth, strengthen and tighten your skin to keep the masterpiece your doctor’s created in top form,” Jennifer says. Since CURV is a concierge style facility that caters to every body, clients receive top tier service and an experience like no other.

CURV Body Lounge has just celebrated its second anniversary of the Old Town Scottsdale location and Jennifer is gearing up to launch the next location in the upcoming year.

To contact Jennifer visit www.curvbodylounge.com or call 480.571.4767.

Jennifer Hall

Jennifer Hall speaks your body language

Atrue test of character is how one handles adversity. Christine Espinoza, Realtor at RE/MAX Fine Properties, is a model for prioritizing integrity in her life and business and not giving up when things get difficult. “My father has been a real estate broker since before I was born and has owned several real estate companies. I got licensed and started working with him as a father-daughter team,” she shares.

With over 25 years of selling real estate in Scottsdale, Christine’s number one goal is to give her clients an experience they’ll be happy to tell others about. “I never stop learning and honing my sales and negotiating skills, as well as constantly updating and creating new content and marketing for my properties,” she says. “I like to stay on top of what’s going on in my community and pride myself in being the go-to person to contact for referrals for anything from a handyman to a hairstylist.”

As we know, the real estate market

has changed a lot since last year, and now more than ever it’s important to hire someone with experience and the ability to quickly change as the market fluctuates. “That’s a combination I don’t see often, and something I pride myself in,” Christine says.

The busy mom credits raising her boys as a driving force to becoming a top real estate agent in the valley. “I’m constantly motivated to be an example of how to live your life with integrity, grit, and hard work. I want to show them you can be successful yet still humble and that the more God gives you, the more he expects from you,” she says.

And that’s not just talk. Christine works with many charitable organizations around the valley. This year, she’s been working closely with Hope-4-Phoenix, an organization that serves dinner to the homeless every Sunday for Thankful Sundays. She sponsors community events that incorporate donation drives to collect everything from shoes, clothes, and blankets to give to the less fortunate.

Despite achieving success in real estate over her expansive career, Christine isn’t slowing down. She partnered with a retiring agent a few years ago and is currently working on the rebranding that fits her distinctive style. This year, she’s also running a relationship-based business and hosting client and community events. “I love to connect people. I have a knack for bringing people together,” she says.

Like most successful people, Christine doesn’t believe in all work and no play. “During the pandemic, I started making TikTok videos for fun, and it’s grown into a creative way to connect with people across the world. Most of the videos are silly lip-syncs, but I have fun with it.” Since starting her account in 2020, she’s connected with thousands of new people around the world and has grown her followers to over 10,000.

To contact Christine Espinoza visit www.ChristineSellsScottsdale.com or call 480.792.9500.

Christine Espinoza

Christine Espinoza sells Scottsdale

It’s not easy carving out your way in today’s fast-paced, results-driven society. You need a strong work ethic, clear career path, and ample amounts of ambition to make a name for yourself and realize your true potential.

First generation Armenian and Scottsdale resident Luciek Mkrdichian attributes her success, both in the fields of banking and small business ownership, to these trademark characteristics. “If you are passionate and have a drive you can accomplish anything,” Mkrdichian says, “but nothing comes easy. It’s all about hard work, dedication and drive.”

Mkrdichian came from humble beginnings. Her father immigrated to America at the young age of sixteen with nothing but the clothes on his back and a desire to support and provide for his family. He worked hard to open his own business, a dental laboratory in Chicago, and it grew to become successful.

His example taught Mkrdichian the value of hard work and what you can

accomplish if you put your mind to it. She began working in banking as a means to pay for college, where she earned a Bachelor’s in Business Management. “I never would have assumed I would have stayed in banking, which has now been over twenty years,” says Mkrdichian, “but throughout my career I had supportive mentors who helped me…to get me to doing what I absolutely love– taking care of my clients financial needs and building a long-lasting level of trust.”

Working as a high-level Private Wealth Advisor at U.S. Bank was not enough, however. Mkrdichian wanted more, and understood she could achieve more through hard work and perseverance. “My husband and I just opened our fourth barbershop location in Downtown Phoenix,” she says, “and also took on a partnership in opening a restaurant this year in Scottsdale at the Scottsdale Promenade called Hummus Republic.”

In everything she does, Mkrdichian knows that communication is key. “I always

try to make sure I’m available to my clients anytime. It’s very important to me in my business to communicate and be available.”

Although she already boasts an impressive resume, Mkrdichian is just getting started, and expects to be very busy as 2023 unfolds, but through it all she plans to smile and give her best every day. “My love in life is connecting with people and helping make connections for others,” says Mkrdichian. “I am so blessed to be able to do the things I do and have had the ability to meet so many fabulous people throughout my career.”

From assisting U.S. Bank clients with wealth management and financial planning, to running a shop where Scottsdale folks can get a great haircut, to serving a decadent Mediterranean cuisine, to having impromptu dance parties with her beautiful daughter, there simply isn’t anything Luciek Mkrdichian can’t do.

To contact Luciek Mkrdichian e-mail Luciek.mkrdichian@usbank.com or call 480.494.8349.

Luciek Mkrdichian

Luciek Mkrdichian creates tailored strategies and confidence for her clients

Dee Dee Maza is setting out to change lives at Unwind Health Spa, debuting this month in north Scottsdale. Unwind Health Spa is the future of personalized wellness and relaxation, offering state-of-the-art technology and a one-of-a-kind health retreat tailored to your specific needs.

By using an innovative point-based membership approach, Unwind Health Spa will offer exclusive add-on services, and comprehensive wellness packages that are revolutionizing the personalized health and wellness space.

The basic membership packages include a steam sauna, dry sauna, biomat, hydrogen cold plunge pool, and oxygen-ozone therapy. Clients can opt in for add-on services, including pulsed electromagnetic field therapy, repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation, inner cleanse foot detox, red light therapy, theta chamber, and more services aimed at achieving optimal health and wellness.

The Steam Sauna provides

therapeutic warmth promoting relaxation, detoxification, and improved circulation.

The Dry Sauna is a traditional Finnish sauna to help alleviate pain and support the immune system. The Bio Mat combines far infrared rays, negative ions, and amethyst crystals for relaxation and stress reduction. The Hydrogen Cold Plunge boosts your metabolism and energy levels for muscle recovery. And the Oxygen Ozone Therapy enhances your body’s detoxification, healing, and rejuvenation processes.

“At Unwind Health Spa, we believe that health and wellness should be personalized to your unique needs and goals. Our memberships empower you to take control of your well-being and elevate your health to new heights,” says Dee Dee.

Earlier this year, Dee Dee handed over the reins of Volanti restaurant and Scottsdale Hangar Events to her daughter to pursue this dream, which is very close to her heart. “For years, I’ve had the privilege of planning events that share

and celebrate what life offers. For my next chapter, I knew it needed to be something equally impactful,” she says. “I didn’t want to shy away from the other side of life — grief, PTSD, depression, and addiction are human suffering that we should not ignore. This next phase is focused on supporting people through the good and the bad.”

In addition to the membership packages, Unwind Health Spa offers a holistic wellness package that includes a one-hour doctor’s consultation, two blood work sessions, a thermography session, access to regenerative medicine and medication if needed.

Dee Dee says the compressive services and working with a team of experts allows people to pinpoint their specific needs and the treatments that will address them most effectively. “This is the kind of work that changes lives,” she says.

To contact Dee Dee Maza at Unwind Health Spa visit www.unwindhealthspa.com.

Dee Dee Maza

Dee Dee Maza empowers you to take control of your well-being

We all want to feel comfortable in our skin, but it’s difficult to live your best life when you’re stuck staring at thinning hair and a receding hairline in the mirror. Before long, you’re like a vampire, doing your best to stay out of sight and away from mirrors.

Carly Klein became well-acquainted with this back in 2007 while working alongside a dermatologist who specialized in hair loss. “I soon realized how big of a problem hair loss was, and it was mostly for men,” says Klein. “That’s when I started looking into different hair loss programs for cancer patients, women and children.”

After all, men commonly experience male pattern baldness and, while many achieve excellent results using modern hair loss remedies, society is more forgiving of bald men.

For women and children, it’s significantly more stigmatized, and could lead to strife and suffering among clients and patients who are working to manage

the hair loss. That’s why Klein founded National Hair Loss Medical Aesthetics (NHLMA) to treat patients who are experiencing hair loss for any number of reasons.

“We not only have a concierge concept where we track people to ensure proper care and success,” says Klein, “we are also a training center that educates providers and professionals all over the country in how to treat hair loss, how to perform the treatments, how to help a variety of different types of hair loss.” In the past two years, NHLMA has been in charge of running 3 National Clinicals for hair loss to track innovative ways to get hair to grow back. “We are always looking at the latest in technology to recover the hair while clinically tracking the history to ensure success,” she says.

Klein’s work has set a new standard in the hair loss industry, and it’s what attracted Brandy Lesaffre to the field. As a Senior Hair Loss Advisor, Brandy oversees the hair recovery programs by looking at the overall health and the condition

of the hair and creating a customized medical program.

“I’ll be forever grateful, inspired and motivated by my personal mentor, Carly Klein,” says Brandy. “She has given me a platform to be able to help people worldwide with an issue so sensitive and has allowed me countless opportunities to grow in this field!”

Working side-by-side at NHLMA, Brandy and Carly are offering extensive programs and services, including hair transplants, injectables, microneedling, facials, and more, utilizing every tool at their disposal to get real results for their clients.

“The men, women and children who are brave enough to come and start the conversation on how to help their hair loss, they inspire me,” says Brandy. “I will stop at nothing to make sure that my clients feel seen, heard and taken down a path of success with their hair goals.”

To contact National Hair Loss Medical Aesthetics visit www.nhlma.com or call 602.283.2355.

Carly Klein and Brandy Lesaffre

Carly and Brandy utilize cutting edge treatments to combat hair loss

Suffering a serious or catastrophic injury is almost always a life-altering event, and the changes tend not to be for the better. Post injury pain could make it difficult to perform basic everyday living tasks, could keep you out of work for extended periods of time, and require that you receive medical treatment on a regular basis to manage symptoms.

If the injury was not your fault, it’s only fair you receive compensation for your pain and suffering. Kelley Durham and her team at K Durham Law PLLC including her dog Megatron assist individuals that have been injured through no fault of their own to help them get the justice they deserve. “I always knew I wanted to help people,” says Durham.

Durham began her law career as a legal assistant, learning the ins and outs of the industry before graduating law school, advancing to paralegal and associate attorney thereafter. “When I became a legal assistant at a personal injury law firm, I knew that was my calling,” she says.

“I knew it was a way to advocate for the little guy who was injured through no fault of their own, against the large insurance companies and billion-dollar corporations.”

In 2015, after more than sixteen years in the field, Durham opened her own firm, K Durham Law PLLC. She understands the challenges that accident victims face moving forward, which is why Durham and her team strive to provide compassionate, yet aggressive individualized representation for each and every person they work with.

Unlike other attorneys, who often see dollar signs at the sight of a person suffering, Durham takes the time to understand each individual client. Her bedside manner and focus on service is exceptional, and it’s what makes her unbeatable when it comes to advocating for her clients. “When a client calls our office, we know who they are, they are not a file or case number to us,” Durham says.

“I take the time to listen to and understand each client so that I can serve

them better, as each matter is unique and each client is different,” she says. “Every client is treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.”

After ample personalized attention to each client, Durham is aggressive in devising a strategy that will guarantee her clients the best outcome. Whether you were a victim of a trucking or automobile crash, slip and fall, negligent security matter, dog mauling, medical malpractice or vaccine injury, Durham is passionate about getting you results.

Beyond her work in the legal field, Durham has been very involved in her community for decades. Currently, she serves as a member of the City of Mesa Judicial Advisory Board, the Know Cares Fundraising Committee, the Wildest Club in Town, serves as a mentor at SHE Leads!, and acts as President of the Phoenix Zoo Auxiliary.

To contact Kelley Durham visit www.kndlegal.com or call 480.820.9090.

Kelley Durham

Kelley Durham prioritizes helping every client to obtain justice

Aperfectly-plated charcuterie board, featuring different tastes, textures, and colors, is not only a decadent delight at a social gathering, it’s often a work of art in and of itself. The idea that charcuterie was something more than a simple plate of snacks is what inspired teacher Sonia Nahabedian to take her passion for plating and turn it into a business.

“I was hosting a small event in December 2019 and decided to create some charcuterie boards for convenient entertaining in my home. Little did I know this was the first of many boards I would create,” says Sonia. “My guests loved everything about the experience. I knew charcuterie was a trend, but hearing the compliments gave me the courage to start my new venture two weeks later.”

And so, after a career in education that spanned over two decades in length, Sonia’s brainchild, Sap N Honey Gourmet Charcuterie Boards, was born, offering exquisite charcuterie selections on

hand-cut, artisan-crafted boards.

Sonia is the face and founder of the business, but she refers to the operation as a “family affair,” as her husband cuts the boards and her sons designed the company logo. Sap N Honey offers a wide selection, including grazing tables, shadow boxes, gift box options, and the ever popular S’Mores Boxes that put an elegant twist on the campfire classic.

Of course, the venture started out as an outlet for Sonia’s passion for creating art from food, but her vision encompasses much more than simply selling charcuterie boards. “I want to change the concept of gift giving and simple at home entertaining by introducing innovative-international appetizer concepts that go beyond charcuterie,” says Sonia. “I don’t do well with boring.”

We’ll be eager to see how the concepts and offerings of Sap N Honey evolve, as Sonia plans to unveil new innovative and delicious appetizer/charcuterie styles along with a selection of

mini-dessert options. “The core of hard work stems from your dedication to reach a dream you build with your own two hands,” she says.

2023 will mark not only an expansion of the business that will make them a national presence, it also marks Sonia’s final year in the classroom. “This May will mark my final month as a teacher,” she says. “I look forward to expanding my business and opening a brick and mortar storefront.”

There’s plenty of achievement to acknowledge from this teacher turned entrepreneur, but the real takeaway Sonia wishes to impart is to have courage to pursue your passions.

“I had the courage to turn a side hustle into a full time small business. I did so without any background knowledge or training,” she says. “Add one cup of ‘Dream Big,’ one tablespoon of ‘Grit,’ and sprinkle with plenty of ‘Enthusiasm!’”

To contact Sonia call 602.370.1429 or visit www.sapandhoneyboards.com.

Sonia Nahabedian

Sonia Nahabedian doesn’t just sell cheese boards; she makes art

Amber Star Wagner

Everyone is quick to talk about how looks are secondary to what’s on the inside, but often we can’t feel our best unless we’re also looking our best. The confidence boost we experience when we know we look absolutely stunning pervades every aspect of what we do, helping us live our best lives simply based on our looks.

That was the idea behind Amber Wagner’s business, Mobile Glow Tan, when she founded it more than a decade ago. Today, she is a master certified spray tan artist, delivering the best spray tan results you’ll find in Scottsdale or anywhere else for that matter. “I love making women feel beautiful,” says Amber, “and I promise you every person leaves with a big smile and more confidence.”

Mobile Glow Tan began when Amber was 33-years old, a single mother of two. She knew she wanted to be around for her children, so a traditional 9-to-5 was not an option. Instead, she founded a mobile spray tan that brought excellent

spray tanning options directly to your front door. Today, Mobile Glow Tan offers mobile services, but also has a home location in North Scottsdale. “I started this hobby out of my house and turned it into a full-blown, very successful fulltime business,” says Amber. “And I got to where I’m at today all by myself with blood sweat and tears! 100% on my own, and as a single mom.”

Amber’s success is truly inspirational, not only for other mothers looking for professional achievement or advancement in addition to their job as a parent, but for anyone with the entrepreneurial spirit who would like to be their own boss but have not yet taken the first steps.

She attributes her undeniable success to drive, determination, and, above all else, excellent people skills. “My clients have all become my friends, people I respect and admire, and all have a story to share with me. I’m not just their spray tan gal,” she says.

Recently, Amber performed a

cha-cha in front of more than 600 guests at Dancing with the Stars Arizona all while raising money for the National Kidney foundation of AZ. “I danced with 10 other contestants and raised nearly $30,000 thanks to my amazing clients, friends, and family.

Her services cannot be understated because, while many clients simply want a healthy glow without basking in the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun, some clients have no other choice. “Skin cancer is a big killer in Arizona. Men and women come in and show me their scars, some all over their body, but again they want some color without the damaging rays of the sun,” Amber says. “They want to feel better and vent to me because they feel 100% comfortable in front of me. All my cancer survivors…they inspire me every single day.”

To contact Amber Wagner call 480.330.5645, visit Mobile Glow AZ on Facebook, or follow @glowbyamber on Instagram.

Amber

Wagner knows if you can’t tone it…tan it!

It’s like a dream come true for a young athlete when they receive an actual opportunity to go pro, but managing their sports performance is only half the battle. Many have little or no experience managing finances before they found themselves making a substantial paycheck and, with their mind focused on playing the game, it’s difficult to manage their money and build wealth simultaneously.

That’s where Tania Kvakic comes in. She is the Senior Vice President –Financial Advisor, Head of RBC Sports Professionals Leadership Council, Senior Consulting Group, International at RBC Wealth Management

“I help athletes and their families achieve their goals, understand their finances and define their legacies,” says Kvakic. “I’m part of a team that helps over 1,100 current and retired professional athletes define their own success through planning, education and preparation.”

Kvakic notes that a significant shift in taking place across the industry. The

so-called old boys club both in finance and sports has been disrupted significantly in the past five years. “The older generation is slowly moving on, paving the way for fresh new perspectives. There are some amazing women getting an opportunity to shine and I want to keep breaking down doors for those coming up,” she shares.

Kvakic’s family office approach involves four pillars, including financial literacy, post-career planning, strategic philanthropy and mental health.

Through education and professional guidance, it is Kvakic’s goal to ensure an athlete is able to create a strong foundation for lasting wealth while they’re still making the big bucks, as one never knows when an aspiring athlete’s career could abruptly end from injury, age, or other extenuating circumstances. “Education is our key differentiator in earning the right to manage our clients and making sure they are setting goals for life, not just during their playing careers,” says Kvakic. It’s this focus on growth, both personal and

professional, that sets Kvakic and RBC Wealth Management apart from the crowd. And what would Kvakic be if she didn’t practice what she preached? “I’m motivated by self-mastery. I love to develop and grow,” she says. “I get to do that with my clients and I’m part of their family as an extension. It’s an honor.”

It’s her financial acumen, unwavering dedication to her clients, and her excellent people skills that make Kvakic so successful in helping athletes develop the tools for lifelong financial success.

“The key to having a personal touch with all my clients is getting to know them and what they want before we can decide on the best path for them,” she says. “Whether they’re signing a playing contract, moving in with a significant other or starting a new venture, their business is their life and we’re there every step of the way.”

To contact Tania Kvakic visit www.rbcwmfa.com/tania.kvakic or call 602.381.5308.

Are you looking for a better mood? Better sleep? An overall leaner appearance? Alexis Montano can help.

An attorney with Squire Patton Boggs (US) LLP, Alexis opened The Tox Scottsdale in June of 2022, and it’s the first franchise for The Tox Technique, which started in Los Angeles in 2019. The Tox Technique is a unique blend of bodywork that works directly with your lymphatic and digestive systems to detoxify the body and mind.

So, how does a commercial real estate attorney with five years of practice under her belt get into this industry?

As most lawyers will tell you, it’s not always the healthiest profession. “The first few years of practicing, you have to prove yourself so you are racking up billable hours and pulling all-nighters. My eating and sleeping habits were very unhealthy so I knew I needed to give my body a little detox and reset. I had heard about lymphatic drainage and its benefits so I

started looking for a place in Arizona to get the service done.,” she shares.

There was no local studio offering what Alexis was looking for, but she found The Tox LA on Instagram and decided to book a treatment the next time she was in California. She was immediately hooked. “It was unlike anything I had ever felt before. That day I sent a message to the owner on Instagram and asked her to open a studio in Scottsdale,” she shares. The owner told Alexis that she was starting a franchise group and to keep in touch. She had a gut feeling she was the right person to open the studio in her hometown. “Sometimes if you want something done, you have to do it yourself,” she explained. She was able to negotiate her own lease agreement given her background so everything seemed to fall into place and the studio opened just over a year later.

Besides the firm pressure lymphatic treatments for the face and body, The Tox patrons will find a full range of products to sustain and maintain their results. The

studio offers everything from gua shas, facial cups, detox and lymphatic teas, detox gummies, and de-bloat pills, among many other specialized products.

Alexis says this new position as a business owner has given her a whole new perspective on business and has opened her eyes to issues that she never came across in her work as an attorney. She feels grateful to get a taste of both. Alexis says she’s specifically motivated to be a good mentor to her seven employees. “I was blessed with amazing female bosses in a lot of my early jobs that shaped who I am, and I want to pay that forward,” she shares.

Outside of work, Alexis is on the Young Professionals Board for Treasure House- a foundation that operates an active living community space for young adults with cognitive disabilities and loves playing pickleball with her husband.

To contact The Tox Scottsdale, please visit www.thetoxtechnique.com and follow @thetoxscottsdale on Instagram.

Alexis Montano

Alexis Montano focuses on lymphatic and digestive health at The Tox

Hired to guide her clients in cultivating a true sanctuary is a sincere passion of interior designer Jessica Moreau, principal designer for Moreau Design Studio. Founded in 2012, expanding on her award winning career, Moreau Design Studio is a full-service design studio based out of the Iconic Red Rocks of Sedona, AZ. Engaging every detail from conception to completion, the process is layered but focused on the client experience. Specializing in curating interiors that are grounded and effortless, elegant yet understated. Always one of a kind, the results are soulful spaces designed for well-being.

“With curiosity, I aim to explore each client’s story of what it means to live artfully, intentionally, and inquisitively to shape the DNA of every project,” she shares. “My work isn’t just a process of designing a home and collecting possessions; it’s a journey of discovery, growth, and writing a new story for my clients; one that compliments an intentional

and authentic clientele with shared values.” Rooted in simplicity and thoughtful execution to achieve the client’s vision through and unfolding, symbiotic relationship founded in mutual trust. In collaborative spirit we partner with talented architects, builders and craftsman highly driven to provide the best resources and results for any caliber of project.

Raised on a horse ranch in southern California by European parents with a generational love of art and homes shaped a large part of her unique approach and perspective. When she was 13, her family moved to the Iconic Red Rocks of Sedona where she expanded on her relationship to nature. In 2020 she returned with her family to base her design studio and raise her children with the same love and respect for the outdoors. She recently completed an extensive renovation of her new Sedona home and studio space. With clients in the valley, and throughout Northern Arizona she insists “Life is too short not to be nourished by your work and I’m always

discovering what it means to live well.” Along with 16 years of experience, she brings her joie de vivre, tenacity for optimizing, and solution-oriented grit to each of her bespoke projects.

On the horizon, Jessica has a burst of new vendor collaborations for custom creations and partnerships for new realms of service offerings. Always a student, Jessica’s ten-year-old is teaching her how to knit, and she’s studying the ancient art of Feng Shui. “I’m very awake to the beauty in life and the gift it is to be alive, which translates into my interactions and choices. I want to make the most of my experiences and transformations in small and significant ways, and that keeps me humble and curious.”

When not on a jobsite, her studio, Jessica finds solace in nature, inspiration in beautiful places and food, and making memories with her friends and family.

To contact Jessica Moreau visit www.moreaudesign.com or call 480.630.3863.

Jessica Moreau

Jessica Moreau elevates the human spirit through spaces

Cynthia Harmon, the owner of the Primp and Blow franchise location in North Scottsdale, believes that when you look your best, you also feel your best.

Primp and Blow is a one-stop-shop for women to get ready for any occasion, offering blowouts, makeup services, and hair extensions. Harmon’s team of experts ensures that every guest feels confident and ready to take on the day, whether they’re preparing for a job interview or a wedding. Membership options are also available for those who frequent the salon, offering significant discounts on monthly blowouts, make up applications, and member only events.

“At Primp and Blow, we specialize in providing a robust sense of confidence from the moment you walk out our doors—all without you having to lift a finger,” she shares. The blow out boutique offers various style of blowouts for all hair types aimed at making their clients feel fabulous.

The relaxed yet elegant salon environment at Primp and Blow is what clients adore. Every woman who steps inside benefits from a wide variety of services that can be easily booked online, through a mobile app, by phone or just by walking in. Harmon and her team of professional stylists specialize in all hair textures, up-dos, braids and sleek pony tails. In about 45 minutes, you’ll leave with a blowout that may even last a few days.

Harmon takes pride in working in a business that caters to women and is passionate about helping them feel beautiful and confident. Primp and Blow goes beyond external beauty by participating in local outreach programs, sponsoring schools and women-led sports teams, and supporting the development of their community. The salon’s success has even been featured in Allure Magazine, and Harmon plans to expand her business by opening multiple locations and owning an entire territory.

With a variety of experience including

working on set for movies and television, owning a beauty franchise comes naturally to Harmon. She always knew she wanted to be a business owner, and Primp and Blow allows her to combine her entrepreneurial spirit with her love for the beauty industry. Harmon says she feels the same emotions working at Primp and Blow as she did when she was prepping celebrities for big scenes. “Making women feel glamorous is what my job is all about, and the team behind me makes it all possible. While on this journey, I have learned to never lose sight of my goals even when things get difficult!” she shares.

Harmon feels fulfilled when she sees women leave her salon with a new sense of confidence and credits her team for making it all possible. Today, Harmon remains focused on her goals and is excited about the future of Primp and Blow.

To contact Cynthia Harmon visit www.primpandblow.com or call 480.419.1000.

Cynthia Harmon

Cynthia Harmon is in the business of building confidence

Lauren A. Bostick

No one is ever happy to become embroiled in legal proceedings, but it’s all the more personal when it pertains to family matters. Nonetheless, litigation in family law matters involving divorce, child custody, spousal and child support, and domestic violence can be tricky to navigate due to legal complexity but more so because of the emotional implications regarding these matters.

That’s where Lauren A. Bostick, Esq. comes in. Bostick’s combination of exceptional legal skills and emotional intelligence make her the premier attorney in the valley of the sun. “My job is to give my clients a powerful voice where they may not have had one before, turning a seemingly hopeless situation into a promising future,” says Bostick. “Making a real impact on my client’s lives is what I get up every morning to do.”

It’s easy to talk the talk, but Bostick walks the walk, always looking for a way to make a positive impact on both individuals and her community as a whole.

She is currently the Maricopa County Bar Association President and serves on the Maricopa County Bar Foundation and is Committee Chair for the Lawyer Referral Service. Bostick also serves on the Community Legal Services and Swift Youth Foundation Board and is a Member of the Scottsdale Bar and Arizona Women Lawyers Association (AWLA) and has taught CLE regarding Domestic Violence and Family Law related matters. Additionally, Bostick is a mentor for She Leads through Arizona Foundation for Women. She has been recognized as a practice leader for Family Law in Ranking Arizona, has been given the All in for Women Award and has been consistently ranked a top 10 attorney for Family Law nationally and in Arizona and has been featured in KNOW Magazine as being a top women entrepreneur.

Most recently, Bostick was featured on ABC15’s “Let Joe Know,” and provided free legal services to those who called during the segment which aired January 18, 2023.

When asked what inspires her to work so tirelessly toward positive change in her community and in the lives of her clients, Bostick shares that her drive, determination, and selflessness stems from her upbringing.

“My dad has always been a motivating and inspirational person in my life because he has worked hard to get to where he is and has been a huge support along with my mom who is loving and smart and has always been there for me when I need her, and it has been inspiring watching her work so hard to get through all of the challenges she has been faced with” says Bostick.

Today, Bostick remains working as diligently as ever to drive positive change in her community and deliver excellent results to her clients. When she isn’t in the courtroom, you can find her singing karaoke, doing hot yoga, or simply relaxing with her rescue dog.

To contact Lauren A. Bostick visit www.rfjesq.com or call 602.777.3577.

Lauren A. Bostick is an experienced Attorney focusing primarily in family law

Modern Americans are becoming increasingly investment savvy, and so vacation rental properties are enjoying a serious spike over the past few years. Identifying profitable properties to use as vacation rentals, however, is a process that not all investors are inherently informed about. That’s where experts like Ellie Paget, CEO of HomeSlice Stays, come in.

“There is a science to finding a profitable second home, sourcing the best management company, and experiential design,” Paget says. “It’s a lot like a perfected recipe; you have to have all the ingredients in place and deliver at the right points in order to orchestrate the layers and sensations.”

Of course, Paget would use a culinary analogy because, despite her proven track record in regard to real estate and luxury property management, her background is in fine dining. Before HomeSlice Stays, Paget was an accomplished chef on a National Geographic cruise ship in Alaska.

Seeking a stable income, Paget acquired her real estate license and began purchasing and managing properties for a wealthy investor. “I managed 125 vacation homes in 15 different markets,” she says. “Started my own company in 2019 and haven’t looked back.”

Since 2019, HomeSlice Stays offers clients an expert analysis of viable luxury vacation rental properties, as well as design and management that help clients generate profit from the investment. Backed by Paget’s unique background and knack for creative hospitality, HomeSlice Stays clients can expect their assets to perform under HomeSlice Stays management.

“Our ability to overperform annually with our inventory is because we turn a lot of business away to provide quality over quantity,” Paget says. “We are very much experts at being focused and selective in order to achieve our concept for the perfect experience. Hospitality takes years of practice to develop and that is

our real mastery.”

How else does HomeSlice Stays deliver on their promises? They offer a certain je ne sais quoi that competitors do not. For example, guests booking a luxury vacation rental under HomeSlice Stays’ management will have a Bentley, Lamborghini, or Rolls Royce at their disposal in addition to extras like private chefs or masseuses. “We offer higher tier concierge services to match our luxury homes,” Paget says. “We’ve launched our partnerships with the community to offer à la carte, on-demand vendors.”

The result is a vacation experience like no other for the guests and excellent returns for Paget’s clients. It’s a classic win-win.

In her spare time, Ellie is currently undergoing training for her private pilots license at Flightworks Aviation.

To contact Ellie e-mail Paget@homeslicestays.com, visit www.homeslicestays.com or check out @homeslicestays on Instagram.

HomeSlice

Ellie Paget is an expert in Short Term Rentals and Hospitality Management

The Women’s Collective

It was a cool, crisp Scottsdale evening. The stunning sunset provided the perfect backdrop for more than one hundred people who toed the line of an inaugural nighttime out-and-back 5k run. Participants of all ages enjoyed the race, as well as the festival area which featured raffle prizes, food and a free, annual public art event, Canal Convergence, on the Scottsdale Waterfront.

This was the first annual Night Run event hosted by the Scottsdale-based non-profit The Women’s Collective, and it raised $17,000 for the organization.

The Women’s Collective was established in 2020 by Susan Ciardullo, Jona Davis, Lina Kalvyte, Jenna Kohl and Kira Peters with the mission of empowering women through community programs and inspirational events intended to elevate women into positions of leadership in various sectors and industries. They also provide resources and education to prepare aspiring women for leadership roles so they have the tools to thrive.

“I’ve talked to countless women over the years about the need for a strong women’s group in Scottsdale and we decided it was time to stop talking and start doing,” says Jona Davis, The Women’s Collective chair and founding member. “My hope is that The Women’s Collective can build and leave a legacy.”

After the wild success of the 2022 Night Run, the organization is already preparing for the next event, to be held on November 4, 2023. Proceeds from all fundraising events are allocated to various groups, all intended to support and empower women in the workforce.

“The overall goal is to be a powerhouse of funding to support women in their quest to have both the influence and power to make decisions and effect change in their careers and lives,” says Davis. “We strive to create initiatives that propel women into leadership roles in our community, whether in the workforce, on a nonprofit board, as head of a household, or in any capacity where they can make a difference.”

The 2022 Night Run was a very successful fundraiser, but the $17,000 is a drop in the bucket compared to over $50,000 The Women’s Collective has raised since their inception. Funds are always provided to existing groups that also seek to empower women, including organizations such as Dress for Success, Fresh Start Women’s Foundation, and Take the Lead Women.

“There are so many impactful organizations that are doing important work to help women,” says Davis. “Our mission is laser-focused: to not only help women get a seat at the decision-making table, but also to ensure that women feel empowered and capable of using their voice to make a positive impact.”

While already very successful, The Women’s Collective is still in their preliminary stages of inception. We’re very eager to see how the organization grows and gives in 2023 and beyond.

To contact The Women’s Collective visit www.the-wc.org or email info@the-wc.org.

The Women’s Collective supports involvement in the community

The 480 Group

Real estate is a competitive industry. You need a real deal phenomenon in your corner to capitalize on the best opportunities the market has to offer. That’s where seasoned real estate agent Michelle Hodges of The 480 Group with Russ Lyon, Sotheby’s International Realty comes in, and she’s got the track record and mindset to prove she’s the real deal.

“I consistently sell millions in real estate every year, which requires me to have my finger on the pulse of real estate at any given time,” Hodges says. “With an ever-changing market, stoicism helps me stay ahead of the curve helping my clients target opportunities in every corner.”

“Stoicisms has gotten a bad rep,” Hodges says. “Stoics are not statuesque cold and cut off people. Stoics are self-controlled and deeply introspective, which honors themselves and others.”

Stoicism is a philosophy and behavior dating back to ancient Rome, advocating principles that guide our action and

inaction to be our most excellent selves. “In the face of many of life’s challenges, Stoicism can reveal opportunities,” Hodges asserts. “I educate clients to live in agreement with nature and be indifferent to it. The market expresses a nature and pattern of its own. Focus on what you can control, accept what you can’t as anything else would be futile. Take action and not let the world pass you by.”

Although Hodges has worked in the Arizona real estate market for seven years, it’s far from her first rodeo. She purchased her first investment properties at the young age of nineteen and sold real estate in San Diego. She studied philosophy at University California, Santa Barbara which created the “can do” mindset that helps her thrive today.

Hodges boasts an eclectic resume including positions promoting nightclubs in Hollywood and working with the United States Department of Defense. Working in a multitude of industries has helped hone her marketing prowess and given

her an edge over other agents. “Because I have worked in marketing for so long, I am skilled at both old school grassroot campaigns and contemporary digital marketing techniques,” she shares. “This gives both my buyers and sellers a leg up and I love helping people win.”

Hodges’ marketing techniques combined with her approachable, kind, and funny demeanor make her a key player in the valley real estate market.

In 2023, Hodges sees and welcomes a shift in the market. Buyers and sellers were “spoiled” by low interest rates over the past years, creating a buying frenzy and driving up home prices. Hodges plans to educate her clientele and acquaint them with the rhythms and norms of a “normal” market. “We are finally back to a healthy market where buyers and sellers are equals. It’s an exciting time. You want to be with a market savvy agent,” Hodges says.

To contact Michelle Hodges visit www.the480group.com/michellehodges.

Michelle Hodges - The Stoic Agent

Now

BY GABBY LEIGHTON

Indulge in a relaxing weekend or spoil the mom in your life with the Soul Seeker Weekend package at Enchantment Resort in Sedona. Leave all stress behind and head to the famed red rocks, which will set the scene for guests to nourish their soul and build deeper connections with themselves, their loved ones and the natural world. The newly launched package features daily breakfast, a bottle of Champagne upon arrival, and a $250 credit per person to use at the resort’s Mii amo spa. Additional activities included with the package are a wine and watercolor painting class, a 2 1/2-hour hike under the stars with a private guide, and a picnic backpack lunch for guests to take on their own adventure. The package requires a three-night minimum length of stay, and is available both weekdays and weekends. Reservations require 21-day advanced notice. Starting at $2,204. www.enchantmentresort.com.

LOWDOWN / DO / CALENDAR / EVENT / OUT / CULTURE

SPRING SIPS

Cocktail authority and author Chrisitaan Rollich recently stepped into the role of bar director for all of chef Matt Cater’s restaurants, including Fat Ox, The Mission and Zinc Bistro. Now, the famed bar chef is premiering his first cocktail menu for Fat Ox. Rollich created eight imaginative new handpressed, farm-fresh cocktails ($18 each) for spring at the restaurant. Spirits range from gin, mezcal and whiskey to bourbon, tequila, vodka, and rum. Some ingredients featured include fruit, fresh herbs, spices, and aged balsamic. www. ilovefatox.com.

PAMPERED PERFECTION

W Scottsdale’s Away Spa is aiming to pamper moms this month with a few new experiences. The first, ReTreat Yourself ($268), includes a 5-minute reset massage, followed by a manicure, a pedicure and complimentary cocktails. Mom’s Beauty Boost ($157) spoils mom with a hair blowout and a 25-minute quick fix massage with complimentary Revitalize enhancement featuring an exfoliation that improves hydration, brightness and suppleness. Finally, Away Spa is also offering 20% off Beauty Bar services – including manicures, pedicures, beauty boost facials, quick fix massages, and hair and makeup – during the month of May with the mention of Mother’s Day Specials when booking. www.awayspawscottsdale.com.

TAKE FLIGHT

Salt Lake City-based SkyShare recently launched in Scottsdale. The full-service private aviation company brings an approachable twist to on-demand luxury air travel, and flies to destinations throughout North America, including Mexico, Canada, and the Carribean. SkyShare offers fractional jet ownership, charter flights, aircraft management, broker aircraft sales, and is an authorized fixed based operator. www.cbskyshare.com.

NEW MIAMI MODERN HOME COMES TO PHOENIX!

A new, custom 2 story estate under construction situated on a spectacular ½ acre lot with 7,200 sq. ft. in North Central Phoenix.

Clean and contemporary ModernMiami theme, all white home with black trim, lots of low e glass, see thru vibe from inside and outside, 2 story entry adjacent to a high bay living room with a catwalk over look above and a floating staircase, 3 master bedrooms, 2 of which have private roof top decks with turf, multiple wet bars, Viking appliances, full glazing sliders opens to the inviting pool deck for entertainment, pool with multiple cabanas, 400 sq, ft. multi-purpose room, with overhead glass doors to the north and south facing to the pool area, this room can be a game room, sports room, or whatever type of fun concept you desire. Fully integrated smart home features throughout.

THE FOUNTAINEBLEAU

GOLF GAB

Arizona Biltmore Golf Club recently unveiled its new 19,500-sqaure-foot golf shop building. Designed by Douglas Fredrikson, AIA and Alexandra Lemos of Phoenix-based Douglas Fredrikson Architects, the building includes retail and office spaces, locker rooms for members, fitting rooms, restrooms, and over 13,000 square feet of underground golf cart storage. In addition, a new cart staging patio serves as the starting point for golfers playing the 36-hole daily-fee facility. The single-story building features Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired architecture. The new golf shop building marks the completion of phase one of a multiphase clubhouse enhancement project, with the clubhouse and restaurant up next in line, followed by a renovation of the Adobe Golf Course. www.azbiltmoregc.com.

DIGITAL ART

The Board of Directors of the Museum of Arizona Artists (MOAZA) recently announced the launch of the digital museum dedicated to celebrating the works of Arizona’s most celebrated artists. MOAZA’s online platform provides a distinct opportunity for artists to showcase their work to a global audience. Through its rotating digital exhibitions, MOAZA – the brainchild of Arizona artists and husband-and-wife team Joel Coplin and JoAnn Lowney – aims to promote Arizona’s vibrant artistic community worldwide and encourage dialogue around the arts. MOAZA’s inaugural exhibition, Anne Coe: A 50-Year Retrospective, will be featured on the museum’s website through August. The exhibition features over 50 works of art by Coe, including her paintings, drawings, and prints. www.moaza.org.

SIP & SAVOR

AJ’s The Art of Wine and Tastes of Summer will return to Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts on May 20 from 1 to 3 p.m. The annual food and wine tasting event is a fundraiser for Scottsdale Arts, the nonprofit arts organization that operates the center. The tasting list is hand-selected by AJ’s Cellar Masters and features selections from the store’s Summer Wine Spectacular and Love of… Rosé selections. Between tastings, guests will be invited to partake in a silent auction offering fine wines, elaborate gift baskets, culinary accessories, and other items from AJ’s and its partners. Attendees will save 25% on orders of six or more bottles at the event. $50-$75; VIP entry begins at noon. www.scottsdalears.org/events.

PHOTO BY DAVID BLAKEMAN

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE ARIZONA BILTMORE GOLF CLUB

GREAT EVENTS THIS MONTH

BY KAYLOR JONES

Summer Concert Series

Ongoing, Musical Instrument Museum

Starting May 3, the Summer Concert Series at the Musical Instrument Museum boasts an all-star lineup of musicians. With performances almost every day in May from a wide range of genres, from jazz piano to indie folk to good old rock and roll, there’s something to suit everyone’s tastes. Artists include bluegrass supergroup Mighty Poplar (May 12), Grammy Award-winner quartet The Manhattan Transfer (May 14 & 15), and A.J. Croce, songwriter and son of folk singer Jim Croce (May 27 & 28). Times and prices vary. www.mim.org.

Chamber @ Ravenscroft Gala

May 13, Ravenscroft Hall

This conclusion of the inaugural 2022/2023 Chamber @ Ravenscroft season promises to be a night to remember. The evening’s diverse program will include chamber works by Samuel Coleridge-Taylor and Robert Schumann, in addition to a piece by contemporary American composer Susie Ibarra, all performed by accomplished players of the piano, violin and cello. A buffet-style dinner will be available for purchase. Since opening in October of 2021, Ravenscroft has showcased some of the world’s finest jazz musicians in its 200-seat Ravenscroft Hall and intimate Jazzbird lounge. 7 p.m. $30. www.theravenscroft.com.

Thrive Luncheon: The Art of Healing

May 16, Lighthouse Artspace

Join the fight to stop to domestic violence in its tracks at this annual fundraising event. In celebration of the Arizona Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence’s 43rd year, the afternoon will include a plated lunch, an immersive art show and an awards ceremony honoring and uplifting local heroes, including survivors of domestic and sexual violence. Proceeds will help the Coalition continue to reduce stigma and promote healing by educating on the prevalence of violence, advocating for victims in public policy, and providing a hotline for people in need. 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. $125. www.acesaz.co.

The Rite of Spring

May 16-June 3, Desert Botanical Garden

Witness the magic of Ballet Arizona’s graceful and energetic performers while surrounded by the beauty of Desert Botanical Garden at dusk. The world premiere of Ib Anderson’s take on Stravinsky’s dynamic score is sure to leave audiences speechless, just as it’s done since The Rite of Spring was first heard on stage in 1913. Now considered one of the most influential modernist scores, this orchestral masterpiece serves as the perfect companion to Anderson’s emotional choreography. 8 p.m. Ticket prices vary. www.balletaz.org.

Much Ado About Nothing

May 18-21, Taliesin West

Step into the wonderful world of the Bard with Southwest Shakespeare Company’s side-splitting performance of this timeless comedy, directed by the accomplished Ingrid Sonnichsen. From masquerade balls to romances plagued by secrets and mistaken identities, this enchanting play – one of Shakespeare’s most-performed since its debut in 1600 – will be right at home in the dramatic Pavilion Theater at Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West. Times vary. $35-$45. www.mesaartscenter.com.

Tee Up for Kids

May 19 & 20, Talking Stick Golf Club & Topgolf Scottsdale

This month, head to the green for this annual two-day event from Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona. On May 19, Talking Stick Golf Club will be the scene of a golf scramble, and on May 20, teams of six will compete in a fun-filled Topgolf tournament, all for the benefit of a good cause. Proceeds will connect more adult volunteers with youth in Maricopa and Pinal Country, forming positive mentoring relationships to help every child reach their full potential. Golf scramble: 8 a.m., $400; Topgolf tournament: 10 a.m., $200. www.bbbsaz.org.

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Cell treatments focus on the root of the underlying issue (nerve damage) not just temporarily mask the symptoms with pain killers.

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DOG DAYS AT THE GARDEN

Through May 27, Desert Botanical Garden

Experience spring at Desert Botanical Garden with your pup on Saturdays in May. Grab a leash and your best friend to explore the garden trails just as the spring wildflowers are coming into bloom. It’s the perfect excursion for man and man’s best friend, with great photo opportunities along the way. Water fountains and refill stations are available throughout the garden to keep all parties, both on two and four legs, hydrated. $29.95 (nonmembers). 7-10 a.m. (last dog admission at 9:30 a.m.). www.dbg.org.

BY BECKY ANTIOCO

The Maricopa Home & Garden Show

May 5-7, Westworld

Find inspiration for your indoor and outdoor spaces at the largest home show in the Southwest. A variety of local small businesses, artisans, and home improvement companies will come together in one place with the latest home trends. David Bromstad from HGTV’s My Lottery Dream Home will share personal stories and design tips in a live stage presentation on Saturday and Sunday at 1 p.m. There will be workshops on saving water, transforming mud into art, and tiny homes. $10;

Military with ID, $5; Children ages 3-12, $3. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. www.maricopacountyhomeshows.com.

Kentucky Derby Party

May 6, Andaz Scottsdale

It may be known as the greatest two minutes in sports, but the Kentucky Derby spawns parties that long outlast the Run for the Roses. Attendees are invited to don posh Derby attire to sip mint juleps and enjoy traditional treats on the Studio Lawn as they watch the iconic race. There will be a silent auction and a contest for the best hat. Pose with a Derbywinner lookalike to complete the

Scottsdale Philharmonic

May 7, Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts

The Scottsdale Philharmonic works to make classical music accessible to audiences of all ages. The professional symphony orchestra’s spring concert will include performances of Gounod’s Juliet’s Waltz from Romeo and Juliet, Wedding March from A Midsummer’s Night Dream, and Satchmo! A Tribute to Louis Armstrong. General admission, $15; Members, $14. 4 p.m. www.scottsdaleperformingarts.org.

Garden Party

Sundays May 7-28 Eden at Hotel Palomar

Get ready to soak up the bright Arizona sunshine and enjoy the good vibes of spring. This season is the perfect time for patio brunches, complete with sweeping views and mimosa flights. The new rooftop restaurant at Hotel Palomar will be locals’ new Sunday go-to, with sweeping skyline views, a pop-up flower shop, and live music. The Garden Party will feature rosé specials, craft cocktails, shareable platters, and brunch bites. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. www.edenbarphoenix.com.

Summer Concert Series

Sundays May 7-June 25, McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park

experience. A full bar and food will be available for purchase. This is a 21 and older event. $75 (includes two drink tickets). 1-4 p.m. www. andazscottsdale.com.

Rosie’s House Ovation Gala

May 6, The Camby

Rosie’s House is one of the largest providers of free afterschool music education in the country. Its students will enchant event guests with their impressive performances and heartwarming stories. Gala attendees will also enjoy live and silent auctions, a hosted bar, and a plated dinner. opportunities. $225. 5:30 p.m. www.rosieshouse.org.

Rock and roll at the Railroad Park every Sunday through June with local bands. Motown, disco, R&B, retro rock, and more — there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Bring a blanket and pack a picnic, or enjoy a meal from the on-site food trucks. Groove to the R&B and top 40 tunes of Soulitify (May 7); journey back to the ’80s and ’90s with the Rockin’ Divas (May 14), Smashed (May 21), and Rock Lobster (May 28); and rock out to top 40 hits from Shining Star (June 4). Food trucks vary by week and include Sweet Magnolia Smokehouse, Lobstar, Fantasy Funnel Cake, Chew Philly Truck, Phat Cheeks and more. Full calendar of performers and food trucks online. Free. Carousel and train rides, $3 each. 7-8:30 p.m. www.therailroadpark.com.

Sunsets and Sips

May 11 & 25, Taliesin West

Explore the serene outdoor pathways of the beautiful Taliesin West at sunset, and visit select indoor spaces. Experience Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural innovation at your leisure while enjoying a complimentary cocktail, beer, or glass of wine. Bar service is open until 30 minutes prior to close. Open spaces rotate each week. $35. 6-8 p.m. www.franklloydwright.org/ taliesin-west.

Grammy- and Emmy-winning multiplatinum artist will bring amazing talent and positive vibes to the Footprint Center for the second leg of her successful tour. Latto will be the opening act for the show. Prices vary. 8 p.m. www.footprintcenter. com.

Rodrigo y Gabriela

May 25, Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts

SPRING ARIZONA RESTAURANT WEEK

May 19-28, Statewide

It’s the most edible time of the year. Explore all of the cuisine Arizona has to offer during this 10-day period of culinary discovery. During this time, participating restaurants will offer special three-course prix-fixe menus, often highlighting limited availability or hyper-seasonal ingredients that might not be on their regular menus. Participating restaurant include local favorites, hidden gems and five-star establishments. Typically, more than 130 restaurants from around the state take part in the event. Confirmed establishments for 2023 include Charleston’s Restaurant, Chilleen’s on 17, Mora Italian, SanTan Brewing Co., The Gladly, and more. A full list of participating restaurants and their menus can be found online. Menus offered at $33, $44 or $55. www.arizonaretaurantweek.com.

One World Spring Concert Series

May 12-13, Camelback Bible Church and Pinnacle High School

The Valley’s premier mixed-voice children’s choir will inspire audiences by traveling the world through song. The five choirs comprised of young singers in grades 2 through 12 will perform music from around the globe for their spring concert series, exploring varying sounds, styles and cultures. Audiences will be inspired by songs of unity, togetherness and joy. $18-$28. 7 p.m., Friday at Camelback Bible Church; 6:30 p.m., Saturday at Pinnacle High School. www.phoenixchildrenschorus.org.

Stars Fiesta!

May 13, JW Marriot Scottsdale

Camelback Inn Resort & Spa

STARS, a nonprofit organization that serves individuals with developmental and cognitive disabilities, will celebrate its 50th anniversary Fiesta this month. Attendees will join in on a joyous and unforgettable evening of memories, acknowledging the many people who have contributed their time, talents, and resources over the past five decades. This annual celebration will be filled with live music,

celebration and reflections on the organization’s past 50 years. $200. 6 p.m. www.starsaz.org.

A Soldier’s Play

May 16-21, ASU Gammage

First staged in 1982, this PulitzerPrize winning story regained popularity when it won a Tony Award in 2020 for Best Revival. It is the story about the murder of a black sergeant outside a segregated U.S. Army camp during World War II. The crime triggers a series of interrogations that touch on the questions of sacrifice, service, and identity in America. $16 to $80. Performance time vary. www.asugammage.com.

Louis Xiii De Remy Martin

Dinner

May 18, Christopher’s at Wrigley Mansion

If you’ve ever wanted to be a member of an exclusive club, Wrigley Mansion is offering an exclusive opportunity for 20 guests to join the Louis XIII Society of Connoisseurs. The five-course culinary and sensory experience will includes wine pairings and tastes of Rémy Martin’s exclusive Louis XIII cognac. Each couple will receive a personalized crystal

decanter, two Facts of Louis XII glasses, and other surprise gifts. $5,000 per couple. 6 p.m. www. wrigleymansion.com.

Adult Prom

May 19, Phoenix Theatre Company Courtyard

It’s all of the things you loved about prom — music, dancing, spiked punch — and none of the things you hated. Relive the glory days or have a redo if your prom experience was less than ideal. Bust out that cummerbund and bowtie, or dress in head-to-toe taffeta to support The Phoenix Theatre Company. There will be an open bar and food from Gilded Gatherings, a live DJ, raffles and prizes, and a karaoke after-party. Prizes will be given for best prom attire. Individual tickets, $250; Two tickets, $400. 7-11 p.m. www. phoenixthetre.com.

Lizzo The Special 2our

May 24, Footprint Center

Do your hair toss, check your nails, and mark your calendar for an energetic performance that will have you singing out loud and dancing to catchy songs like Juice, Truth Hurts, and Good as Hell. The

The Grammy-winning duo will bring their eclectic style of music that blends classic rock, heavy metal, and flamenco to the stage in Scottsdale. Their newest release, In Between Thoughts… A New World, is an ambitious project that features their signature dual guitars, augmented by a full orchestra. Rodrigo y Gabriela have performed at the White House and sold out iconic venues around the world. The show will open with a performance by indie rock group Krooked Kings. $42-$80. 7:30 p.m. www.scottsdaleperformingarts.org.

Gazillion Bubble Show

May 28, Desert Diamond Arena

The Gazillion Bubble Show has been blowing up all over the country for 15 years. As a bubble tide washes over the audience, even adults will feel like kids again. Bubble magic, laser light effects and soapy masterpieces will delight bubble lovers of all ages. Have a birthday coming up? Group experiences include on-stage appearances for the birthday honoree, “Me in a Bubble” photo, and meet and greets with the performers. This family show has delighted celebrities and audiences across the country. $20$40; parties start at $300. 1 p.m. www.gazillionbubbleshow.com.

Kasai Fire & Fairways Charity Golf Tournament

June 5, Scottsdale Silverado Golf Club

For the second year, more than 120 golfers will tee off to compete for prizes and support Arizonans for Children, a nonprofit that supports Arizona’s foster children. The four-player shotgun start scramble will kick off when a helicopter drops 500 numbered golf balls over the chipping area. The three closest to the pin will win prizes. Prizes include a Cadillac lease, a trip to Italy for the 2023 Ryder Cup, and a golf trip to Pebble Beach. After the tournament, golfers will enjoy lunch at Kasai Scottsdale, with drinks and raffles. Non-golfing guests can purchase luncheon tickets for $40 online or $50 on the day of the event. 6:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Through May 31, $175; June 1-5, $225. www. kasaiscottsdale.com.

ON THE INSIDE AND OUTSIDE

FIND OUT WHY SCOTTSDALE WOMEN ARE IN LOVE WITH FOXYDETOX!

When it comes to looking and feeling their best, celebrities often rely on a combination of skincare treatments and wellness rituals to maintain their radiant appearance. Luckily, Scottsdale residents have access to The FoxyDetox at their fingertips thanks to The Biomed Center located in north Scottsdale.

The FoxyDetox is similar to an oil change for the body and is comprised of a variety of state-of-the-art equipment known for providing rejuvenating and detoxifying benefits. While the FoxyDetox utilizes cutting-edge systems designed to cleanse the body of harmful substances over time, the results can be felt immediately on your journey to optimal health thanks to the following treatments.

The HOCATT™: During the therapy, you will be sitting comfortably in ozone sauna capsule while warm steam, carbonic acid and an ozone / oxygen mixture are infused into the sealed off chamber. The pores open and capillaries dilate and ozone is introduced via the skin and through the process of elimination, toxins are expelled, thereby sparing the kidneys and liver of the detoxification process. Expect to emerge from the treatment feeling extremely relaxed, refreshed and energized.

FLOWpresso: A session in the FLOWpresso suit helps to improve lymphatic drainage while shifting the body into a better state of health. There are 22 air compression chambers that move in a rhythmic compression all over the body in a specific order to move the lymphatics. One session will help to improve lymphatic drainage, improve sleep, improve energy, stress reduction, and aids in recovery and mobility.

Red Light Therapy: 20 minutes of red-light therapy delivers light energy in a similar way plants absorb energy from the sun. The non-invasive, soothing and gentle treatment sets in motion the body’s inherent painrelieving process. The treatment targets aches, pains, joint soreness, and stiffness. It also increases blood circulation, which brings oxygen and nutrients to help heal. So, relax, listen to music or meditate while enjoying this warm, soothing and restorative treatment.

IV Therapy: IV therapy involves the intravenous administration of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other essential nutrients directly into the bloodstream. By bypassing the digestive system, IV therapy allows for more efficient absorption of these nutrients, resulting in quicker and more noticeable effects. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with digestive disorders, food allergies, or for those looking to increase energy and vitality.

To learn more about The FoxyDetox and The Biomed Center Scottsdale, visit thebiomedcenter.com  or call 480.614.5820.

TOAST THE TOWN

Wrigley Mansion’s four-day Festivin 2023 will be focused on all things vino

BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ

IF YOU GO…

What:

Wrigley Mansion

Festivin 2023

When:

May 18-21, times vary

Where: Wrigley Mansion, 2501 E. Telawa Trail, Phoenix

Tickets: Prices vary by event

Info: www.wrigleymansion. com.

For four days in May, Wrigley Mansion will transform into the center of the wine universe during Festivin 2023. Now in its third year, the event (formerly called Wrigley Wine Fest) has grown to feature exclusive winemaker and themed wine pairing dinners as well as a grand public tasting event, a sparkling Sunday brunch and a series of workshops and classes in pairing, glasses, varietals, and more.

The fun will kick off Thursday, May 18, with one of the most ambitious culinary evenings in recent memory that will see Christopher’s at Wrigley Mansion partner with Louis XIII dé Rémy Martin on a specialty pairing dinner limited to just 20 guests. Reservations are $5,000 per couple, and the evening will include hors d’oeuvres, Champagne, a five-course culinary and sensory experience enhanced with wine pairings, cigars, and the sampling of Rémy Martin’s prestigious cognac, Louis XIII. Brand Ambassador Guillaume Vallet will co-host the evening with James Beard Award winner chef Christopher Gross, and extras including personalized engraved

crystal decanters will be gifted throughout the evening. There will be two wine dinners taking place simultaneously inside Wrigley as well.

On Friday, May 19, another two wine dinners will take place. Geordie’s Restaurant at Wrigley Mansion will play host to Flight Club. During the multicourse dinner, husband-and-wife sommeliers John Ross and Jane Lopes will put their palates on the line, competing to see who guests think (by popular vote) make the best pairings with award-winning chef David Brito’s intricate courses. Geordie’s will also offer an intimate chefs table experience in a separate space, pairing culinary styles from the past five decades with wines from the corresponding periods in each course.

Saturday, May 20, marks the biggest day of programming. It will start with a series of interactive classes led by advanced and master sommeliers, winemakers and tastemakers for both hospitality professionals and the general public alike. Two cooking demonstrations, one by Gross and the other by Brito, will follow during which a full

lunch and wines from either Giuliana Imports or Kermit Lynch Wines will be served. Finally, the grand tasting will take place throughout the property, both inside and out. It will grant guests access to more than 100 different wines from around the world in addition to lawn games, music, and other entertainment. Wines will be paired with small bites designed exclusively to enhance specific varietals, and, for the first time in the event’s history, many of the labels will be available to purchase by the bottle or case.

Festivin will conclude Sunday, May 21, with a progressive brunch across Wrigley’s entire property, allowing guests to sip on sparkling wine and Champagne while enjoying an exquisite culinary spread in all directions.

A portion of proceeds from the fourday event will benefit Almost There Rescue, a local nonprofit that primarily focuses on caring for homeless, pregnant dogs and giving their puppies medical care while finding them forever homes. Puppies from the rescue will be on property during the grand tasting to pet, cuddle and adopt.

WINE TIME

Raise a glass at these sensational Scottsdale spots

Looking for the perfect place to wine down with the fabulous ladies in your life? Scottdale’s bevy of beautifully appointed wine bars have you covered.

BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ

Cooper’s Hawk

While from the outside it may appear to be a standard restaurant, there’s a full-scale winery tasting room much like one would find in Napa right inside. Cooper’s Hawk works with vineyards across Chile, France, California, and Washington to source grapes, using them to handcraft its many varietals, each of which is offered by the glass, bottle or mixed and matched in a bevy of tasting flights. Tasting room attendants are stationed throughout the bar for recommendations. www.chwinery.com.

The Wine Collective of Scottsdale

Opened just last year, The Wine Collective of Scottsdale is the only local tasting room and retail shop to almost exclusively showcase a variety of premium Arizona producers under one roof. The space is owned by Zoya VoraShah, a wine industry veteran who hand-selects each of the roughly 40 bottles on the shelves and prides herself on offering an experience that is educational as well as relaxing and fun. www.the-wine-collective.com.

Wine Girl Scottsdale

This boho-inspired, indoor-outdoor wine bar boasts feminine, photo-worthy elements in every direction. Both its aesthetic and tasting menu are aimed to make guests feel like they are on vacation. There are reds, whites, and bubbles available in 3-, 6-, 9-, or 12-ounce pours as well as mimosas, wine spritzes, wine-infused margaritas, mocktails, beers, and canned ready-to-drink offerings. www.winegirlscottsdale.com.

Sorso Wine Room

Ever heard of a wine buffet? Popping up in trendy spots across major foodie cities, it is a semi self-serve approach to wine tasting where, thanks to the power of technology, bottles of wine are suspended behind glass so that guests may choose the style, brand and amount they want, essentially creating a build-your-own wine tasting experience. Sorso boasts one of the only technologies of this kind in Arizona, in addition to full-service glasses, bottles, and a full menu of elevated fare. www.sorsowineroom.com.

The Living Room

Since 2014, the Living Room at DC Ranch has been serving guests the best in Mediterranean snacks, tapas, happy hour, and dinner; delighting in pairing each item with offerings from its extensive wine list. And though its name is Living Room, it could very well be called outdoor oasis thanks to its bright orange umbrellas and wraparound deck with cozy furniture. At night, the string lights throughout DC Ranch illuminate the night sky, creating an unforgettable ambiance. www.livingroomwinebar.com.

Terroir Wine Pub

Once a wine store, Terroir converted into a wine bar nearly 20 years ago and has been thriving ever since. Known for its expansive patio, the recently remodeled bar offers an evolving menu that always has at least 30 wines available by the glass and the option to build a three-varietal tasting flight. And while wine is the star, there are about 20 beers available for guests as well. www.terroirwinepub.com.

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PIGMENTED LESION REDUCTION

Reduce lesions on face, hands, chest and back. Also treats dark spots & sun damage.

SKIN REVITALIZATION

Restore youthful glow, minimize pore size with collagen revitalization that targets aging skin.

VASCULAR LESION REDUCTION

Diminish facial redness and flushing targeting unwanted vascular lesions.

602.373.8145

10505 N. 69th St., Suite 101 Scottsdale, AZ 85253

jen@laseroptionsbyjen.com www.laseroptionsbyjen.glossgenius.com

MADE FOR MAMA

A gift guide for the family matriarch

BY JORDAN MORENO

For the Nursing Mom

Planning trips out of the house around a nursing schedule is a thing of the past thanks to stylish brand momWAM; a nursing cover apparel company with a mission to help moms gain confidence in their breastfeeding journey. Their unique design is complete with full back coverage, tulip-shaped flaps in the front to allow space for babies to wiggle, and a wide neck opening for special eye contact during precious moments. The cherry on top is momWAM’s (Mom With A Mission) commitment to the assisting patients and families dealing with pediatric cancer – Allie, the founder, is a former pediatric hematology/oncology/BMT nurse. Each year, the recently launched company plans to donate a portion of its profits toward organizations that benefit families dealing with pediatric cancer. www.momwam.com.

For the Planner Mom

Packing a hospital bag can be daunting –especially for first-time parents. Lily + Llama’s aim is to remove the guess work for moms who love a plan. Founder Michelle is a mom who gets it. With two young boys herself, her goal is to help expecting mamas worry about one less thing with a Lily + Llama pre-packed hospital bag. Every item included in the maternity bags has been hand-picked based on research, personal experience and community feedback, making the go-bags a game changer with personalized flare.There are four options to choose from, and moms can also build their own bags. www.lilyandllama.com.

For the Busy Mom

The stressors of young motherhood are abundant, and feeding shouldn’t be one of them. This is why owner Tirza created Milk By Mom. The company allows breastfeeding moms an opportunity for the flexibility that formula offers, while still giving babies the nourishment of breast milk through its state-of-the-art breastmilk freeze-drying services. Freeze-drying delivers convenience and preserves the nutritional, immunological, and probiotic components of breast milk, allowing an alternative for parents and caregivers. www.milkbymom.com.

For the Sports Mom

For moms with older children, it can seem like the entire weekend is spent either on the practice field or shuttling athletes from place to place. Bergy Bag is here to avoid a total meltdown this summer. The cute cosmetic bag is innovative and keeps everything inside it cool. Melted sunscreen, lip balm and an overheated cell phone are now a thing of the past for sports moms, so the focus can be on the game-winning goal instead of a melty mess. The cooling cosmetic bags come in pink, white and black. www.bergybag.com.

This Mother’s Day (May 14), skip the generic holiday card and celebrate with a dynamic lineup of products made by moms, for moms.

Having a hysterectomy or other forms of invasive surgery for uterine fibroids should always be your last option. At Comprehensive Integrated Care, we believe second opinions are important.

A treatment called uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) may be right for you. This minimally invasive interventional radiology procedure uses diagnostic imaging and specialized particles to cut off blood flow and ultimately shrink the fibroid without the need for traditional surgery and associated downtime.

Let the care team at CiC show you a uterine fibroid solution that offers less pain, less risk, less recovery, and much less worry when compared to other treatment options.

LUMINESCENT LANDSCAPES

Painter Lauren Knode taps into light and color for her signature Southwestern landscapes

BY JORDAN MORENO

With every detail captured, one look at a Lauren Knode painting and you might believe it is actually a photograph.

Now highly appreciated for the intricate features of a desert landscape, Knode’s time as an artist began as a child in Portland, Oregon. Knode, who comes from a family of artists, has always been a knowledge-seeker and lover of education. Her deep appreciation for art history stems from a semester abroad in northern Italy. Knode holds a bachelor’s of fine arts, a minor in education and a master’s in arts and teaching, and she spent 20 years as a high school art teacher before becoming a full-time artist.

Always eager to learn, Knode joined a number of women’s art groups where she first learned of the Phippen Museum Western Art Show in Arizona and immediately fell in love with the warm palette of the Southwest.

Her history as a full-time artist in Phoenix dates back to 2004; the first year of the Arizona Fine Art Expo in which she has been a regular ever since. After 27 years on the fine art circuit, Knode has an eye toward hunkering down in 2023 and beyond. The self-proclaimed “road warrior” spent years traveling across the country participating in fine art shows.

“I would pack up my van and hit a few shows back-to-back,” Knode says. “I would set everything up myself and tear down and head to the next show. Family and friends were very supportive. I kept gravitating toward Southwestern paintings, so much so that it didn’t make sense for me to attend the Northwestern shows anymore.”

With one painting engulfing upwards of three months from conception to completion, Knode spends five to seven hours at a time in front of her canvas while simultaneously running all business operations.

“I never give up on a painting. I am devoted to one at a time,” she says.

From sizing to the customization and installation of a one-ofa-kind work of art, Knode collaborates with her clients through the entire process.

“A sunset’s ever-changing brilliance in a desert landscape is my favorite subject to depict,” she says. “Along with the translucency of delicate flower petals, and the shimmering light in the ripples of a stream.”

When she is not furthering her business, Knode loves reading, landscaping and gardening with an abundance of orchids around her home. She appreciates exploring local art galleries and taking day trips around Arizona.

Learn more at www.laurenknodeart.com.

Style

ALLURE / DWELL

/

SHOP / FASHION

BY GABBY LEIGHTON

This year, forgo the typical Mother’s Day gift for something a little more glam with the Airwrap Multistyler Complete Long Gift Set. The new set, which features the iconic multistyler in addition to a matching Dyson-designed travel pouch and presentation case, will help moms (or anyone with long locks!) curl, shape, smooth and hide flyaways with no extreme heat. The Enhanced Coanda airflow attracts and self-wraps hair in both directions around re-engineered barrels for voluminous curls or waves. No matter which attachment users choose (pick from the airwrap barrel, soft smoothing brush, firm smoothing brush and the round volumizing brush), the product dries and styles simultaneously with no extreme heat. $599 at Nordstrom, www.nordstrom.com.

TIME TO SHINE

Beauty products to achieve the glittery, glowing “vampire skin” trend

Brightening concealer, YSL, $34 at Nordstrom, www. nordstrom.com.

Moisturizing cream, $25.90 at Zara, www. zara.com.

Hydrating liquid illuminator, Ilia, $34 at Citrine, www. citrinenaturalskin.com.

SPF 30 shimmer sunscreen, Solara Suncare, $32 at Citrine.

Body highlighter, $14.99 at H&M, www. hm.com.

Silver pigment eye shadow, Lancome, $23 at Neiman Marcus, www. neimanmarcus.com.

As a thirty year expert in the field of permanent makeup, known as the master in the art of custom color blending, Rachell Hall now explains the reality, the myths and the magic of permanent makeup

Imagine never having to touch up your makeup. Never having to worry about your eyeliner running after a dip in the pool or watching a tear-jerker on TV. Never sweating your eyebrows off at the gym. Looking your best even when you’ve just rolled out of bed. It isn’t a fantasy: it’s the reality that Rachell Hall brings to her clients every day.

Renowned as the foremost expert in permanent makeup by an international

Rachell Hall’s

CLASSIC BEAUTY / PERMANENT MAKEUP

Creating wash and wear Beauty for over 30 years

With Rachell Hall’s signature permanent make-up techniques, she creates classic eyebrows and eyeliner with custom colors blended just for you. A soft powdered backdrop of shading to create the illusion of perfect natural brows that are the envy of every woman. Whether you are challenged with short, sparse, or thinning eyebrows, Rachell Hall’s thirty years of expertise in make up artistry, custom color blending, art and science will be your perfect solution.

1. EYEBROWS

Eyebrows frame the face like a beautiful frame brings a painted canvass to life. Make your eyebrows all they were meant to be. Because I custom blend my colors for each person even blonds can have permanent eyebrows that look soft and natural.

2. EYELINER

With permanent eyeliner, you wake up with lovely eyes enhanced by your wash and wear eyeliner. It is easy to be ready to go at a moments notice.

3. WASH & WEAR BEAUTY

Save time, save money, save make-up

At the pool, in the shower, or enjoying the hot tub, with permanent makeup you are ready to go anywhere, any time of the day.

clientele, Hall’s artistry provides a naturally gorgeous look. Lash lines are lush, sexy, and subtly smoky. Brows are delicately arched to perfectly frame the eye. Lips are lusciously enhanced with a just-bitten blush. “My basic philosophy is classic beauty,” states Hall. “Nothing trendy: this is your go-to, doanything look.” Permanent cosmetics are the ideal solution for any woman who wants to look pretty and pulled together under every circumstance – without the hassle of applying and re-applying makeup. It can greatly simplify and take tons of time off of your daily routine.

Hall’s specialty is custom-blending her

own pigments to flatter any skin tone and eye color. She takes into account unique personalities and lifestyles, and works with clients to create an effortlessly beautiful look tailored just for them. Permanent makeup doesn’t run, smudge, or bleed into fine lines: it stays as fresh and polished as if it had just been applied. Again, Hall emphasizes natural beauty, nothing trendy. “I never want my clients to wake up Wednesday morning with their Saturday night makeup on,” she says. “Remember, you can always add more by using traditional cosmetics to enhance your daily look for evening and special occasions.”

Rachell Hall, AGE 64 PERMANENT MAKEUP

“Classic Beauty Nothing Trending. Remember that we can always add more.”

—RACHELL HALL

Experience Rachell Hall’s expertise, NO pain, NO hassle, NO worries, just CLASSIC BEAUTY.

HOME IN BLOOM

Go beyond the bouquet with florals for every room

Black-and-white apron, Marimekko, $49 at Nordstrom, www.nordstrom.com.

Stoneware salad plates, $59 (set of four) at Pottery Barn, www.potterybarn.com.

Hand-beaded pillow, $240 at Jonathan Adler, www. jonathanadler.com.

White lamp, Uttermost, $202 at Daniel House Club, www.danielhouse. club.

Wool rug, MacKenzie-Childs, $198 at Neiman Marcus, www. neimanmarcus.com.

Cotton muslin blanket, $49.99 at H&M, www.hm.com.

DENIM ON DENIM

How to wear the American classic from head to toe

Loose-fit overalls, $39 at H&M, www. hm.com.

Pleated peplum tank, Veronica Beard, $278 at Nordstrom, www.nordstrom.com.

Bucket hat, Ganni, $95 at Shopbop, www.shopbop.com.

Knotted headband, Lele Sadoughi, $65 at Shopbop.

Top-handle patchwork bag, Dolce & Gabbana, $2,395 at Neiman Marcus, www. neimanmarcus.com.

Bow slingbacks, $238 at J.Crew, www. jcrew.com.

BALLETCORE BLISS

Dress like a dancer in soft, romantic styles this spring

Pink ruched mesh top, As By DF, $265 at Neiman Marcus, www.neimanmarcus. com

Pink ribbed knit skirt, Misook, $248 at Nordstrom, www. nordstrom.com.

Pink tiered cotton dress, Mille, $468 at Nordstrom.

Floral pleated clutch with bow, Loeffler Randall, $250 at Shopbop, www. shopbop.com.

Pink almondtoe flats, Journee Collection, $49.99 at DSW, www.dsw.com.

Blue velvet bow barette, Jennifer Behr, $148 at Neiman Marcus.

SWIMSUIT: Pink banded top with matching bottoms, Becca by Rebecca Virtue, $78 and $68, respectively. From Everything But Water, www.everythingbutwater.com.

PHOTOS BY CLAUDIA JOHNSTONE / HAIR AND MAKEUP BY DENISE BLACK, WWW.BEAUTYDENISE.COM

STYLING BY STACEY RICHMAN / MODEL: LORI YOUNG / LOCATION: JULIANNA AND SHAHAB KHADEMI'S SCOTTSDALE HOME

SWIMSUIT: Cantaloupe cutout one piece, Summerful, $148. From Everything But Water, www.everythingbutwater.com.

SWIMSUIT: Green cap-sleeve plunge one-piece, Bleu Rod Beattie, $119. From Everything But Water, www.everythingbutwater.com.

SWIMSUIT: Navy banded triangle top and matching highwaist bottoms, Robin Piccone, $138 and $98, respectively. From Everything But Water, www.everythingbutwater.com.

SWIMSUIT: Metallic patterned reversible triangle top with matching side tassel hipster bottoms, Cosita Linda, $74 and $72, respectively. From Everything But Water, www.everythingbutwater.com.

SWIMSUIT: Pink ribbed bralette with matching banded bottoms, Summerful, $89 and $79, respectively. From Everything But Water, www.everythingbutwater.com.

SWIMSUIT: Green halter triangle banded top with matching ruched hipster bottoms, Becca by Rebecca Virtue, $68 and $48, respectively. From Everything But Water, www.everythingbutwater.com.

SWIMSUIT: Black cap-sleeve stitched cropped top with matching hipster bottoms, Bleu Rod Beattie, $85 and $65, respectively. From Everything But Water, www.everythingbutwater.com.

MEDICAL TESTS WOMEN SHOULD HAVE

Put your health at the top of the priority list by scheduling important tests that may help find, and in some cases, prevent cancer. With everything on your plate, you may be tempted to delay your annual mammogram, put off that colonoscopy or let your skin test wait. But don’t let that happen. Make the choice to put your health at the top of the priority list, and you can start by scheduling important tests that may help find, and in some cases, prevent cancer.

BASIC TESTS WOMEN SHOULD HAVE

MAMMOGRAM: Mammograms are X-ray exams used to detect and evaluate breast changes. The American Cancer Society (ACS) recommends women at average risk for breast cancer begin receiving annual mammograms by age 45. However, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends starting at 40, while the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force Services (USPSTF) says low-risk/healthy women can wait until their 50th birthday to begin receiving mammograms, then get them every other year thereafter.

PAP TEST: This screening procedure, also known as a Pap smear, tests for precancerous and cancerous cells on the cervix. The ACS and USPSTF recommend women get the Pap test starting at age 21 and then every three years after that, regardless of sexual activity. When a woman turns 30, she is recommended to have a Pap and HPV test (which tests for the human papilloma virus) every five years. Women may also choose to have just a Pap every three years.

DIGITAL RECTAL EXAMS: This screening allows a doctor to check the lower rectum and pelvis for rectal, uterine or ovarian cancer. It is important for women to have a digital rectal exam every year, beginning at age 40.

COLONOSCOPY: During this outpatient endoscopic procedure, a gastroenterologist examines the inner lining

of the colon and rectum for abnormalities and removes any polyps. The ACS recommends that women with an average risk for colon cancer have a colonoscopy every 10 years beginning at age 50. Those younger than 50 should be screened if they have a strong family history of colon cancer or a personal history of inflammatory bowel disease. Other stool tests screen for colon cancer and are recommended every three years for people at average risk for colorectal cancer.

SKIN CANCER SCREENING: Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. The ACS recommends women have a skin exam performed every year) during regular health check-ups. Having your doctor perform regular skin checks is especially important if you have already had skin cancer.

COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY (CT) SCAN FOR LUNG CANCER: This test examines the anatomy of the lungs and surrounding tissues. The ACS  and USPSTF recommend CT scans for women who are at high risk for lung cancer. CT scans are recommended for adults age 55 to 74 (the USPSTF recommends the tests up to age 80) with no signs or symptoms of lung cancer, those who have a history of smoking a pack a day for 30 years (or 2 packs a day for 15 years) and those who smoke or have quit smoking within the past 15 years.

Diabetes screening: The USPSTF recommends screening for abnormal blood glucose levels in adults age 40 to 70 years who are overweight. Increasing evidence also suggests women with diabetes are at higher risk for developing certain cancers, including liver, pancreatic, endometrial, colorectal, breast and bladder cancer.

Luxe

WHEELS / WANT / HAUTE PROPERTY / PLACES

BY GABBY LEIGHTON

Give Mom (or yourself!) the gift of flowers that last forever with the vide pouches from Tiffany & Co. Available – and sold separately – in rose, tulip and magnolia variations, the new bowls are inspired by botanical pieces from The Tiffany Archives and re-imagined in sterling silver. Crafted with the brand’s signature attention to detail, the floral dishes make a striking addition to any room at home – or bring them to work to add a little feminine flair to the office. $1,000 each at www.tiffany.com.

2023 MERCEDES AMG SL 63 ROADSTER

Beautifully crafted and sumptuously provisioned with a blistering performance

BY JIM PRUETER

VITAL STATS:

2023 Mercedes AMG SL 63 Roadster

Even those who don’t consider themselves Mercedes fanatics can certainly appreciate the AMG SL as a magnificently brutal, heart-pounding thrill ride

Admittedly, it looks fantastic, it’s fast (577 twin-turbocharged horsepower), and, as opposed to class competitors, it leans more grand tour than track sports car.

The SL-class is a two-door convertible only with a fabric roof replacing the folding hardtop from last year. There’s a pair of essentially unusable rear seats best left for a gym bag or shopping packages, otherwise the cabin is luxury class Benz all the way, including the standard Airscarf feature, which extends top-down driving into colder weather by blowing warm air on front seat occupants’ necks.

Only two trim levels are offered for the AMG SL 63: Touring ($178,100) and Performance ($179,900). A less powerful AMG SL 55 is offered with a starting price of $137,400.

Opulent standard features include

active multicontour massaging front seats, a 360-degree surround view system, an adjustable 11.9-inch touchscreen MB navigation with augmented video, and AMG Active Ride Control. Buyers also have the option to add on an exterior cabin fiber package, a Burmester 3D surround sound stereo, Monza Grey Mago exterior paint with a red convertible top, cross-spoke black wheels, an AMG Night package, a microfiber headliner, an AMG Aerodynamics package, and performance trim line for an added cost.

A nine-speed automatic is the only transmission offered, and four-wheel steering paired with all-wheel drive are both standard. Adjustable drive modes are standard. Acceleration is immediate and the vehicle reached 60 mph in just 2.9 seconds when tested.

Overall, the SL 63 is an excellent head-turning roadster with powerful twin-turbo performance, a luxurious interior, attractive styling, a rewarding driving experience, and is surprisingly easy to drive.

Base Price: $180,450

Price as Tested: $215,435

Engine: 4.0L V-8

Horsepower: 577

Fuel Economy: 14/22 mpg city/ highway

Seating: 4

Fab features: Beautifully crafted

Blistering Performance

Unparalleled sense of arrival

What Makes Us Elite?

Every single visit is with Dr. Suescun. At most hormone replacement centers, you will NEVER see a doctor. You also have direct access to Dr. Suescun via cell, text & email.

There are no weekly visits required as with most hormone replacement centers. All medication is taken at home.

We schedule your visits at your convenience including evenings and weekends.

Membership with Elite includes body composition monitoring to achieve your individual goals. We follow your progress by analyzing & tracking your body fat percentage, muscle mass, weight etc. to track tangible results. All plans are completely individualized and doses of medication carefully adjusted for patients to meet their specific goals based on hormone levels and biochemical markers.

We stress the importance of nutrition in reaching the ultimate level of fitness, strength, and health and therefore provide our clients with personalized nutritional advice along with exercise and fitness counseling. Our goal is to help you stay in the best shape of your life and to achieve optimum health.

ROOM WITH A VIEW

Montage Healdsburg offers a lavish penthouse suspended in the sky

BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ / PHOTOS BY MONTAGE HEALDSBURG

Guest House occupants have access to a wine country concierge who can arrange VIP reservations for tastings and elegant dining across Sonoma and Napa, as well as book more adventurous activities including hot air balloon tours and golf outings. The concierge can also put together an itinerary of lush experiences available directly at the resort itself. Montage offers 15.5 acres of on-site vineyards, which are overseen by the resort’s internationally renowned winemaker and partner, Jesse Katz. Malbec, merlot, petite Verdot, cabernet franc, sauvignon blanc and cabernet sauvignon grapes are grown on property and will eventually be bottled at Katz’s Aperture Cellars Winery production building, located just a few miles from the property. Currently, the Montage team can arrange for parties to visit Katz at Aperture Cellars Winery for tastings, offering an experience reserved exclusively for resort guests. Beyond this, Montage offers an on-site beekeeping and apiary program, wine country helicopter adventures, seasonal mushroom foraging, bike rentals and tours, kayaks to enjoy on the nearby Russian River, and art gallery tours.

The word “treehouse” likely conjures happy memories of a rustic, wooden haven from childhood. Montage Healdsburg’s Guest House is in a class all its own.

The sky-high home away from home is the crown jewel of luxurious lodging options at Montage Healdsburg, a 258-acre resort that opened in 2021 in the heart of Sonoma’s storied wine country. At 4,635 impeccably appointed square feet and lifted off the ground to allow for one-of-a-kind views of the Alexander Valley American Viticultural Area (AVA) and Mount St. Helena, each of the Guest House’s three bedrooms offers ample outdoor space with their own balconies as well as marble-covered bathrooms, oversized free-standing bathtubs and separate walk-in showers. There is also a fourth half-bathroom and a fully equipped kitchen and pantry space, which may be stocked with local artisan goods, wine, and other goodies upon request for an added fee. The Guest House, which is consciously designed and decorated to complement and enhance the surrounding natural elements, also boasts an expansive dining room, a fireplace, and massive indoor and outdoor living areas. Outside is of particular note thanks to the wraparound balcony, loungers and hot tub.

Among the other resort amenities: breakfast, lunch, dinner and a chef’s tasting menu are offered daily at signature restaurant Hazel Hill, which features locally sourced, seasonally driven cuisine infused with wine country flair alongside an extensive selection of fine wines; two pools – one an adults-only, zero-edge pool and the other open to families – with private cabanas; and the 11,500-squarefoot Spa Montage, which offers wellness experiences inspired by the land as well as solo and couples treatments, yoga in the vineyard, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and more.

Reservations for the Guest House start at $15,000 per night.

Learn more at www.montagehotels. com/healdsburg.

SPOTLIGHT: PARADISE VALLEY OPULENCE

BY GABBY LEIGHTON

This quintessential custom Paradise Valley home was designed for family living and entertainment.

An inviting front patio leads to an oversized unique front door, housing a 6,290-square-foot space. Highlights throughout include marble and granite finishes and European Oak floors. The home is made up of five bedrooms and 5 1/2 bathrooms.

The formal dining room is just to the left off the front entryway, and includes a butler's pantry and a custom wine wall with Basalt stone, a dedicated cooling system and LED accent lighting.

Continuing straight upon entering will lead guests to the great room, containing both a kitchen and family room. The large kitchen showcases double islands, a Sub Zero fridge and freezer, a Wolf range and two Bosch dishwashers. There’s also an informal dining area. The family room features 14-foot ceilings and a 16-foot-long motorized fully retractable pocket door for indoor-outdoor living.

The home also features a theater room with a state-of-the-art Dolby Atmos surround sound, tiered seating and a game room area with a full bar with Sub Zero beverage fridges and an ice maker.

The primary suite is a true retreat with a centerpiece fireplace and marble en-robed bath that includes two closets and two toilet rooms. The kids wing features a flex room and the guest suite has its own private courtyard entrance.

A touch-screen panel controls the main area lighting, thermostats, cameras, security, and audio.

The backyard features expansive travertine paved patios that overlook a custom five-hole synthetic grass putting green and heated pool with three baja steps, cascading water features and a negative-edge spa. There’s a gas fireplace, a poolside gas fire pit and a large built-in barbecue.

The oversized four-car garage has insulated garage doors and epoxy floors.

9105 N. Foothills Manor Drive, Paradise Valley, AZ 85253.

Listed for $6,500,000 Laura Jewett of Inspired Living Collective with Platinum Living Realty, 480.628.2563 or laura@ azinspiredliving.com.

AWE-INSPIRING ARCHIPELAGO

The Florida Keys offer 125 miles of island paradise

BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ

The southernmost tip of the continental United States is a stunner.

Spanning 125 miles and located just south of Miami, the Florida Keys – bound by a series of more than 42 interconnected bridges (including the famed Seven Mile Bridge) through the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico – boast a rare combination of secluded luxury, audacious outdoor adventure, and rich history unlike anywhere else in North America. The region is best accessed from the Valley by flying into Miami International Airport, just over an hour away from the Keys. Within its 125 miles are five key regions – Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, the Lower Keys, and Key West – each with its own personality and attractions.

Accommodations

If visiting for the first time, a good rule of thumb is to choose a resort that is centrally located. Among the best is Hawks Cay Resort, which spans 60 acres and is situated between Key Largo and Key West. The AAA Four Diamond winner features more than 400 island-inspired rooms and plush villas as well as six restaurants, a saltwater lagoon, five swimming pools, tennis and pickleball courts, a full-service spa, and copious water-based activities. Of particular note on property are the marina, which is home to Discovery Channel’s Saltwater Experience and can house boats as large as 110 feet; the lauded Sixty-One Prime, which is committed to the “Fresh from Florida” sustainable dining initiative created by the Florida Department of Agriculture; Angler & Ale, a casual beach bar and restaurant that overlooks the resort’s fullscale marina; Solé Watersports, on-site outfitters who provide daily standup paddleboard and kayak rentals as well as lead snorkel trips, sunset cruises, island tours, and private boat charters; and Dolphin Connection, the only mainland U.S. resort-based program of its kind that allows guests to interact and swim with dolphins in their natural environment.

Hawk Cay also recently announced a new scuba partnership with local outfitters Better Than Most Scuba, so guests may get snorkeling, SDI and PADI dive certification as well as take lobstering and spearfishing courses right on-site. For those already certified, Better Than Most can host groups of up to 15 divers during each trip, seeking out some of the best scuba sites on the continent.

Also new this spring is Mellow Ventures Backcountry Outfitters, which recently began offering a catamaran cottage for overnight accommodations. The new “Outpost,” a fully restored former cigar-maker’s cottage that accommodates overnight parties of up to six, is built on 50-foot catamaran hulls.

Beyond Hawks Cay and Mellow Ventures, other stunning properties include Casa Marina Key West, which has its own private beach; Opal Key Resort & Marina, beautiful and just steps

from Key West’s lively downtown and nightlife scenes; Bungalows Key Largo, which is adults-only; Baker’s Cay Resort, which oozes Creole-Caribbean cool; and Isla Bella Beach Resort, a Mediterranean-inspired marvel.

Attractions

Certainly, the Keys are first and foremost for those who wish to explore the outdoors and get on the water. A National Marine Sanctuary, the entire region is protected by the government as the only living barrier coral reef in the continental U.S. One of the most unique outdoor attractions is the Florida Keys Shipwreck Trail, a series of nine historic underwater shipwrecks and artificial reefs – some of which feature purposefully sunken Naval ships – that extend from Key Largo to Key West. Another must: Dry Tortugas National Park, a 100-square mile park outside of Key West consisting of seven small islands that is only accessible by seaplane or boat and is surrounded on all sides by colorful, swimmable coral reefs. The park is also home to Fort Jefferson, an unfinished fortress that was first built in the 1840s and is still the largest masonry structure in the Western Hemisphere.

While Key Largo and Key West are the big dive and snorkel spots, Islamorada is known as “the sport fishing capital of the world,” where both backcountry sport fishing and saltwater fly-fishing were pioneered. Here, choose from 100-plus guided trek options for the fishing expedition of a lifetime.

Traveling with a pup? Marathon is beloved for its dog-friendly Salty Pup Adventures, which allows guests to spend time on the water with their dogs on a 27-foot catamaran-style vessel, including ample time to swim together. Marathon is also home to the Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters, among the best stops for those traveling with children. The aquarium has all the bells and whistles one might expect as it relates to touch tanks and exhibits, but its encounters – marine biologist-led experiences with sharks, rays, and coral reefs safe for the entire family and ocean adventure novices – are what really makes it special.

Certainly, outdoor offerings dominate the region, but no trip to the Keys would be complete without visits to Duval Street, Mallory Square, and the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum as well. All located in Key West, Duval Street boasts the biggest and best bar and restaurant scene in the region while nearby Mallory Square features a never-ending array of street performances and artists. The Hemingway Home is the actual Spanish colonial villa where Hemingway lived during the 1930s when he wrote a slew of his best works. There, enjoy a tour as well as the outdoor grounds and even meet the four-legged descendants of his six-toed cat who still reside on the property.

Learn more at www.fla-keys.com.

ROSÉ ALL DAY

Uncork spring in a bottle with these perfect patio pours

Say yes way to rosè – bursting with layered floral and fruit notes with just the right hint of acid – all month long with some enchantingly elegant vintages.

2021 Ferrari-Carano Dry Sangiovese Rosé

Made primarily from sangiovese with a touch of pinot noir, grenache, black muscat and syrah, this ultra-aromatic bottle offers a dreamy bouquet of orange blossoms on the nose. On the palate, there are bolder citrus notes as well as hints of white peach and watermelon in this delicious wine. The varietal is perfect to serve with salmon and chilled shrimp. $24. www.ferrari-carano.com.

Cass Winery 2022 Oasis Rosé

Mostly made from mourvedre, but with just over 20% of grenache to balance it out, this 100% Paso Robles estate rosé – meaning every grape in it came directly from the family’s home vineyard – surprises the senses with a punch of passion fruit and pink grapefruit, followed by jasmine, berry and honey. Enjoy best with eggs Benedict and quiche Lorraine. $25. www.casswines.com.

C po Creek Ranch 2021 Rosé

Baby pink in color and made from two-thirds zinfandel and one-third Grenache noir, this dry creek dream is good on its own, but given its red grapefruit, strawberry cream, and undertone of apple notes, it lends itself to the perfect base for a spritzer as well. Try it with anything that has fresh fruit, including dessert. $28. www. capocreekranch.com.

2020 Notre Vue Rosé of GSM

Though grown in Northern California’s Chalk Hill region, this varietal is made in classic Rhone style with equal parts grenache, syrah and mourvedre. Delicately pink, it offers a beautiful combination of lychee, apricots and nectarine on the nose and palate. It will hold up well to grilled proteins

and barbecued dishes. $29. www. notrevueestate.com.

Clif Family 2022 Rosé Of Grenache

Made from 100% Mendocino County grenache and aged in 100% stainless steel, this is made-for-brunch bottle offers ripe peach on the nose and to the taste, complemented by flavors of watermelon and wild strawberries in every sip. Pair it with everything brunchy, from avocado toast and omelets to pancakes and crepes. $30. www.cliffamily.com.

Mirabelle Brut Rosé

A blend of pinot noir and chardonnay picked by hand, Mirabelle feels tropical at first, offering stone fruit – notably pineapple – on the nose and palate. As the bubbles kiss the nose, flavors of apple, ginger, and even vanilla reveal themselves as well. Ahi tuna or poke are perfect to pair with this bottle. $32. www. schramsberg.com.

Allegretto Rosé of Malbec NV

A 100% malbec offering that is ever so delicate and lightly pink with very little residual sugar, Allegretto takes great care to let the strawberry and watermelon shine without any sweetness. It is the perfect rosé for those who prefer drier wines. It goes well with Mediterranean or Middle Eastern flavors and charcuterie. $34. www. allegrettowines.com.

Silver Trident 2022 Apollo’s Folly Rosé

This brightly acidic beauty is made from 100% pinot noir and opens with aromas of honeydew, pears and persimmon. Those flavors give way to grapefruit, strawberry, and Meyer lemon to the taste, and there is a terrifically tangy finish. The varietal can stand up to spicy food as well as shellfish. $36. www.silvertridentwinery.com.

Taste

DRINK / CHEERS / CUISINE / FOOD FILES / DINING GUIDE

BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ / PHOTO BY DEBBY WOLVOS

Ocean Prime recently enhanced its menu, bringing back all-time guest favorites while launching wholly new menu items as well. Among the favorites coming back, albeit with a mouthwatering update, is the Chilean Sea Bass ($63). To amplify the fish’s rich, buttery, slightly sweet flavor and tender, flaky texture, it is first broiled until a golden crust appears and then it’s roasted in the oven with butter and select Ocean Prime seasonings. As the sea bass cooks, blanched broccolini and pearl onions are sauteed with butter, salt, pepper, and herbs in one pan while cooked Yukon Gold potatoes are mashed with milk and butter in another. The mashed potatoes are plated first, followed by the sauteed vegetables, and then the fish is placed delicately atop it all. The rustic-yet-elegant dish is finished with truffle-infused vinaigrette, parsley, and a small floret of broccolini for garnish. Ocean Prime, 5455 E. High St., Phoenix; 480.347.1313; www.ocean-prime.com.

TICKLED PINK

Picazzo’s CBD-Infused Blueberry Acai Limeade relaxes while it refreshes in every effervescent sip

BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ /

BY DEBBY WOLVOS

Picazzo’s Healthy Italian Kitchen recently launched a spring cocktail menu. It includes 11 new specialty drinks, three mocktails, and two drinkable adult desserts. Among its most innovative offerings is the CBD-Infused Blueberry Acai Limeade ($13).

“In addition to being one of the biggest trends in food and drink over the past 10 years, we liked the idea of adding it because cannabidiol, or CBD, has been shown to relieve anxiety, alleviate physical aches and pains, and even promote more restful sleep,” says Sean Manning, partner and beverage program director of Picazzo's, adding that CBD is derived from the hemp plant but neither causes a high nor is addictive.

To make, eight blueberries are muddled in a shaker before lime juice, house simple syrup, and Drake's Organic Premium Vodka are added to the build.

“We chose Drake’s for its smooth profile with light hints of sweetness and citrus in every sip,” Manning says. “The notes work to enhance the lime and syrup, and the flavors combine to taste just like real limeade, but with far less sugar content.”

After adding ice and shaking vigorously, the contents are strained into a rocks glass over fresh ice.

“Before adding the garnish – skewered blueberries and a lime peel – we top the cocktail with Quantreau Blueberry + Acai CBD, a sparkling canned beverage made with water, natural flavors, and – of course – CBD,” Manning says. “It also happens to have a pinkish hue, adding visual appeal.”

When brought up to the lips, expect the bubbles to tickle the nose and a faint aroma of fruit and honey. To the taste, each sip is tangy but light with just the right amount of sweetness.

Picazzo’s Healthy Italian Kitchen, 4669 E. Cactus Road, Phoenix, and 7325 E. Frank Lloyd Wright, Scottsdale; 480.990.2212; www.picazzos.com.

PHOTO

CHEF CONVERSATIONS

BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ / PHOTO BY DEBBY WOLVOS

Tracy Dempsey is the owner of Tracy Dempsey Originals, crafting cakes, confections, and a host of other sweet treats for eateries and specialty stores across Scottsdale as well as for her retail bakery.

What is your first baking memory? When I was 7, I wanted to do a lemonade stand. To attract more customers, I made crepes to pair with the lemonade. The crepes were a hit! The lemonade? Not so much!

Tell us about your culinary journey. Initially, I planned to get into hotel/restaurant management, but ended up studying business and later French literature in college. Fast forward a few degrees, and my husband got a job opportunity in Arizona in 1994. I initially taught at Arizona State University, until I heard about the culinary program at Scottsdale Community College and decided to chase my passion.

How did you come to open Tracy Dempsey Originals?

I took a winding road from the late 1990s until the Great Recession hit, baking at and for the likes of Cowboy Ciao, LONs, Mountain Shadows, Crudo, Nook, Citizen Public House and more. Eventually, I rented space at Arcadia Farms before investing in my own kitchen in 2012.

What are some must-try items for readers?

My bacon pecan brittle, first developed at Cowboy Ciao more than 20 years ago, is still a crowd pleaser. Also try The Bianco, which I made for Chris Bianco’s wedding. It is vanilla cake layered with strawberry Campari compote, lemon cream, and lemon buttercream. Finally, the Chocolate Fleur de Sel Caramel Chocolate cake is heaven.

You are a founding member of AZWomenInFood. Tell us about it. AZWomenInFood is the local chapter of “Let’s Talk Womxn,” a movement by women to support fellow women-led food businesses. It was born during the pandemic as we all jointly worked together to stay in business. Today we have more than 20 members statewide and 700 nationwide.

Tracy Dempsey Originals, 1325 W. University Drive, Tempe; www.tracydempseyoriginals. com; 602.376.9021.

In the kitchen with Tracy Dempsey of Tracy Dempsey Originals

DOWNTOWN DELIGHTS

Explore the explosion of newly opened epicurean experiences across Phoenix

BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ

Teddy’s Preserve

Like Rough Riders, its dark and sultry sister underground concept, Teddy’s is an homage to all things Theodore “Teddy” Roosevelt. Opened in February, this bright and airy indoor-outdoor eatery and cocktail lounge features nature-inspired decor in a nod to America’s national arks, which Roosevelt championed, and boasts shaken, stirred and frozen cocktails; themed shots; and a menu of small comfort food bites as well as sandwiches and larger meat and pasta entrees. www.teddyspreserve.com.

Sandfish Sushi and Whiskey

In late 2022, the Downtown area’s Melrose District welcomed Sandfish, a magical mashup of Scandinavian and Japanese cultures. Each of Turkish chef-owner Engin Onural’s dishes is inspired by his travels around the world and there is a distinct focus on sushi that combines traditional elements, such as spicy tuna and crab, with ingredients like black truffle zest, seared New York steak, and coconut flakes. Adventurous eaters should opt for his omakase menu, a twist on a traditional tasting menu. www.sandfishsushiwhiskey.com.

Rosso Italian

The team behind Pomo Pizzeria launched this 5,000-square-foot premium take on Italian cuisine at Cityscape in late February. A melange of carefully crafted entrees, appetizers, seafood, and Napoletana-style pizza, standout dishes on the current menu include the pork chop Milanese, housemade gnocchi burrata, yellowtail crudo, tuna tartare burrata, and beef carpaccio. Visually, the restaurant is modern with rustic touches, including exposed brick with hand-painted murals and warm, romantic lighting. www.rossoitalian.com.

Trophy Room

When Wren & Wolf opened Downtown in 2022, its larger-than-life interior and innovative menu of new American and experiential dishes were the talk of the town. Hot on its heels, Wren & Wolf opened an extension to its restaurant called Trophy Room in March. The hidden cocktail bar does not allow phones in or photos of the space to keep its air of mystery, but expect decadence in every direction, both in its aesthetic and across it buzzed-about menu. www.bestcocktailbarphoenix.com.

Quartz

Though temperatures are rising across the Valley by the day, there is nothing hotter than the Downtown Phoenix food and beverage scene right now. Case in point: these newly opened and ultradiverse culinary hotspots.

The award-winning team from Belly Kitchen & Bar and Sin Muerte, in partnership with Chuckie Duff of Cobra Arcade Bar, Ziggy’s Pizza, and The Rebel Lounge fame, opened this cocktail bar in April. Its inspiration is wholly unique to the area: deserts around the world, from Arizona to Antarctica (yes, Antarctica is technically a desert!). Every single cocktail on the menu tells a desert story through flavor. Bonus: Every cocktail offers a visual experience for the guest. www.quartzphx.com.

Coabana

Stepping into Coabana, which opened in late 2022, is like stepping back in time to 1950s

Havana. This Cuban gem is inspired by Café la Trova in Miami, which is considered by many as among the top bars in the world. Expect a rum-forward cocktail menu and mouthwatering tapas including tostones (fried mashed plantains), ceviche, empanadas, and croquetas. The menu is – of course – topped off with a traditional Cubano sandwich with roasted pork, smoked ham, pickles, Swiss cheese, and mustard. www.coabanaphx.com.

Phoenix Coquí

Now a brick-and-mortar location in the heart of Downtown Phoenix, Phoenix Coquí started as a popular food truck serving up Puerto Rican delicacies to-go across the Valley. Executive chef Juan Alberto Ayala pours his soul – not to mention his own heritage – into every recipe, infusing his own family traditions with modern flavors and ingredients. He also takes great care to offer vegan and vegetarian options along with his heartier, meatier offerings to ensure all who enter feel welcome. www.phoenixcoqui.com.

Chilte

Open since early 2023 in the revamped and reopened Egyptian Motor Hotel, Chilte serves locally sourced, artisanal street food from chef Lawrence Smith, a beloved local chef who recently appeared on The Food Network’s popular Chopped reality competition. His mission is to take traditional Mexican cuisine and help guests enjoy it through a new, modern lens. For example, the menu boasts a flight of moles, an elote cheesecake, and chorizo Bolognese. www.chiltephx.com.

Central Records Wine Café

Opened in February, this combination record store, radio studio, performance venue, art gallery, wine bar and culinary mecca features separate menus at breakfast, lunch, and dinner (though that menu is called “lounge”), many with ingredients from chef Dana Arbel’s Israeli and Argentinian roots and all to be enjoyed while DJs are spinning vinyl. Pro tip: there are canned cocktails and a long list of beers on the drink menu, but take the time to try one of the natural wines available. www.instagram.com/ central.records.

Que Sazón

Now open in Downtown Phoenix’s iconic Teeter House, Que Sazón is owned by the husbandand-wife team of Fabian and Julie Ocampo, best known for their food truck and pandemic pop-ups of the same name. The menu is Latin American with clear influences from Fabian’s native Columbia, and the interior boasts a bold and eclectic Miami vibe. The menu features all of the couple’s best-loved dishes from the food truck as well as more elevated fare, and the drink menu is kissed with Columbian cream sodas, fruit drinks and South American beers. www.instagram.com/quesazon_az.

Latha

When opened in recent weeks in the Silva House at Heritage Square, Latha became Downtown Phoenix’s only African restaurant. Each of its dishes is inspired by the rich history and bounty of flavors across Africa as well as Brazil, the Caribbean, and the American South. Local farms are used to source as many ingredients as possible, and the ownership works to support African American artisans. www. lathaphx.com.

Taste DINING GUIDE

RUZE CAKE HOUSE

The mother-daughter baking team behind this popular bakery has taken Scottsdale and social media by storm with their fresh, artistic designs. Beautifully decorated macarons, cactus-shaped cookies and delicate cupcakes are lined up along the pristine counter. Ruze believes that local and sustainable ingredients make better, fresher-tasting cakes; all of its honey, citrus and milk are sourced from Arizona farmers. The Ruze Boba is a popular signature drink featuring fresh housemade prickly pear puree, rose syrup, tea and milk. There is a large selection of vegan cakes and baked goods as well as gluten-free options. It’s the perfect place for special occasions, weddings and custom desserts. 7033 E. Main St., Scottsdale; 480.438.8692; www. ruzecakehouse.com; $-$$

BY BECKY ANTIOCO / PHOTO BY ERICA AND JON HAYES

American COLD BEERS & CHEESEBURGERS

At Cold Beers & Cheeseburgers, you get exactly what you can expect from a restaurant with that name. It has over 150 beer choices and a food menu featuring a variety of burgers, classic bar fare and the popular build your own mac and cheese dish. And if you dare, try the Burger Challenge, where you choose a minimum of 3 half-pound burger patties and attempt to eat it in record time and walk away with bragging rights. Gluten-free menu available. Happy hour Monday through Friday from 3 to 6 p.m. Four locations across Scottsdale and Phoenix; www.coldbeers.com; $$

ELEMENTS

Elements is a refined culinary experience inside the Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Resort & Spa and helmed by celebrity chef Beau MacMillan. Its innovative seasonal menu features farm fresh American cuisine with Asian accents that incorporates local, organic produce; sustainable seafood; and hormonefree meat. This is best exemplified in one bite with the roasted oyster Rockefeller appetizer. Guests can appreciate the intimacy provided by Elements’ cozy booths and revel in the views of Paradise Valley at sunset, an ideal setting for special occasions. For pre-dinner cocktails, shimmy over to Jade Bar for happy hour from 4 to 10 p.m. Monday through Sunday. At Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Resort & Spa, 5700 E. McDonald Drive, Scottsdale; 480.607.2300; www.sanctuaryoncamelback.com; $$$

NEW WAVE MARKET

Super Chunk Sweets in Old Town Scottsdale expanded into the adjacent space and sprouted New Wave Market to offer a more extensive menu. Locals now have another location to get their hands on the everything bagel Chula Seafood smoked salmon sandwich that often sold out within an hour every weekend because yes, it is that delicious! New Wave serves a range of breakfast items, salads, sandwiches, homemade ice creams, and coffee from local roastery Peixoto. The market side carries an assortment of home decor, gourmet jarred food items and novelty gifts. 7120 E. 6th Ave., Scottsdale; 602.736.2383; www.newwavemarket.com; $

THE HIDEAWAY GRILL

The Hideaway Grill is a popular hangout among the most famous custom bike builders and motorcycle personalities in the industry. Grab a beer and chow

down on classic American bar grub like sliders, wings and chili dogs. Happy hour is from 3 to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and includes free food and drink specials. 6746 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek; 480.907.5635; www.hideaway-usa.com; $

THIRSTY LION GASTROPUB & GRILL

Thirsty Lion Gastropub & Grill offers a large outdoor bar and a diverse selection of food and beverages with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients. Menu items range from salads, snacks, burgers and sandwiches to kitchen specialties like fried chicken mac and cheese and IPA beer-battered fish and chips. There is also an extensive selection of craft cocktails, wine and local brews. Brunch is offered on weekends. At Desert Ridge, 21001 N. Tatum Blvd., Phoenix; www.thirstyliongastropub. com; $$

Asian CHINA JADE

China Jade is a local favorite for old-style, affordable Chinese takeout or casual dining. Some of the most popular menu items include cheese wonton crab rangoon, chicken lo mein, Mongolian beef and orange-flavored chicken. The lunch and dinner combos come with guest’s choice of rice or lo mein and choice of soup or egg roll. Delivery available within a 5-mile radius. 14747 N. Northsight Blvd., Scottsdale; 480.991.9688; www.chinajadescottsdale.com; $

KODO SUSHI SAKE

At the elegant and modern Kodo Sushi Sake, chef Yong Choi is looking to inspire by evolving Japanese cuisine with elements of traditional and fusion. The menu consists of familiar sushi rolls as well as more inventive dishes like the oasis roll where raw tuna, salmon, crab salad, avocado and radish are wrapped in cucumber and drizzled with spicy ponzu, eel sauce and spicy mayo. There is also a great selection of appetizers and noodles for those looking for a more well-done meal. Closed Sunday. 15040 N. Northsight Blvd., Scottsdale; 480.275.2811; www. kodosushisake.com; $$

OSHA THAI

This Thai restaurant has been serving Scottsdale for more than 10 years, offering recognizable dishes such as pad Thai and panang curry as well as less familiar entrees like the threeflavored fish, which is lightly battered sole fillets fried and tossed in a spicy sweet and sour sauce. The menu is vegetarian- and vegan-friendly and

great for those who enjoy a little spice. 10953 N. Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd., Scottsdale; 480.767.1440; www. oshathaiscottsdale.com; $$

TEHARU SUSHI

No need to wait for your sushi at Teharu, as it comes to you! Fresh rolls, sushi and small plates revolve around the dining room on a conveyor belt where diners can easily view and select dishes directly. Portions are smaller and proportionate to their affordable pricing, which offers the opportunity to try several rolls and appetizers without feeling overwhelmed by ordering too much. 15801 N. Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd., Scottsdale; 480.661.1188; www. teharusushi.netwaiter.com; $-$$

Bakery

BUTTA CAKES

What started out as a challenge to create a dessert for a dinner party has turned into a sweet dream for Butta Cakes owner Perry Hilton. She’s created over 25 flavors of her butter cakes, including banana pudding, cake batter, Key lime and orangesicle varieties, all using all natural, premium ingredients. These little morsels of butter cake are available as a single, half dozen or a sampler dozen and are perfect for party favors, gift-giving or a sweet treat pick-me-up. 20801 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; www.buttacakes.com; $

JL PATISSERIE

This French-inspired bakery started out on the farmers market circuit before opening a storefront in 2019. Known for authentic French baguettes and croissants, JL does things a little differently by using sourdough bases and natural fermentation for the baked goods. Don’t miss the carrot cake, a favorite of owner Jenna Leurquin. 7342 E. Shea Blvd., Scottsdale; 480.859.4459;

SUGAR JAM

This must-try spot specializes in addictive handmade baked goods like pies, brownies, cupcakes, cookies, scones and muffins. Many flavors are seasonal, and the menu rotates frequently. The “kitchen” part of Sugar Jam features traditional Southern comfort classics like buttermilk fried chicken, southern grits, catfish, and savory biscuits and country sausage gravy. Custom cakes and larger quantities can be preordered ahead of time. Open Wednesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. 15111 N. Hayden Road., Scottsdale; 480.948.6210; www.sjsouthernkitchen.com; $$

THE LOCAL DONUT

This Old Town Scottsdale donut shop

has built a reputation for its delicious and photogenic fancy donuts. Offering yeasted and cake donuts, the sweet spot’s specialties include the PB&J and s’mores with a toasted marshmallow on top. Donuts range from traditional (thnk classics like old fashions, devil’s food, and sprinkles) to fancy (maple bacon, caramel coconut, salted caramel), with seasonal flavors added monthly. The notorious croissant doughnuts are available on Saturday and Sunday only. 3213 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale; 480.500.5236; www.thelocaldonutshop.com; $

Breakfast

BREAKFAST KITCHEN BAR

Breakfast Kitchen Bar’s menu features a variety of breakfast and lunch favorites like omelets, pancakes, burgers and sandwiches and specialty items like the must-have avocado fries, and a chicken and waffles sandwich. The restaurant offers many healthy, keto and gluten-free options, as well as breakfast cocktails, coffee drinks, beer and wine. Two locations: Desert Ridge and Scottsdale Quarter. www.breakfastkitchenbar.com; $$

DJ’S BAGEL CAFÉ

DJ’s Bagel Cafe is a New York-style deli and bagel shop located in the heart of Fountain Hills. It has a reputation for having some of the best bagels in the Valley since opening in 1997, so don’t be surprised if it’s crowded or if there’s a line out the door. The menu consists of over a dozen bagel flavors as well as a variety of omelets, sandwiches, salads, baked goods and wraps. 13693 N. Fountain Hills Blvd., Fountain Hills; 480.816.4155; $-$$

OEB BREAKFAST CO.

The colorful chef-driven restaurant from Canada offers fun cocktails and decadent breakfast and brunch options, including crepes, Benedicts, sandwiches and French toast, as well as unique breakfast poutines including Soul in a Bowl with poached eggs, duck fat fried potatoes, cheese curds, and brown butter hollandaise. 17757 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.597.4463; www.eatoeb.com; $$

PREP & PASTRY

Located between Scottsdale Fashion Square and Scottsdale Waterfront, this see and be seen spot offers breakfast sandwiches, Benedicts, plant-driven options, and scrumptious breakfast potatoes famous for a six-step preparation process. Cocktail offerings include a variety of mimosas, the Southwest Sunset with strawberry-infused bourbon, and the Thai Fighter with ginger

lemongrass vodka. 7025 E. Via Soleri Drive, Scottsdale; 480.477.1502; www. prepandpastry.com; $$

THE BOOZY

The only restaurant at High Street serving up breakfast, The Boozy’s menu features brunch classics such as waffles, French toast and creplettes, plus a smattering of lunch items like paninis, salads, and bowls. Don’t miss the millennium toast complete with avocado, marinated tomatoes, fresh basil, and red onion. The lengthy, tasty cocktail list offers a bevy of bloody Marys, mimosas, and oneof-a-kind cocktails to kick the day off right. 5450 E. High St., Phoenix; 480.590.4278; www.theboozyaz. com; $

Brewery

BLUE CLOVER DISTILLERY

This micro-distillery in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale creates handcrafted, small-batch liquors influenced by the owners’ Danish heritage. The restaurant offers craft cocktails that pair with a globally inspired gastropub menu. Notable dishes include chorizo poutine, the green chile cheeseburger, pork shank “wings” and Yucatan jerk chicken. If looking for a cocktail, try the Scottsdale Sunset featuring Blue Clover Grapefruit Vodka. 7042 E. Indian School Road., Scottsdale; 480.946.1062; www. bluecloverdistillery.com; $$

PHX BEER CO.

This scenic brewery and restaurant is located in McCormick Ranch, with a beautiful patio along Marguerite Lake. The menu offers several items made with PHX Beer Co.’s brews, including ale house wings, beerbattered cod and chips, and a porter brownie, as well as its signature black iron pizzas, sandwiches, burgers, salads and soups. The patio is pup-friendly and “hoppy” hour, with specials on beer, cocktails, wine and bites, takes place weekdays from 2 to 6 p.m. 8300 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale; 480.571.8645; www.phxbeerco.com; $$

STATE 48 LAGER HOUSE

State 48 started in Surprise and has since expanded to six Valley locations, including Scottsdale, where it brews its lagers on-site. The two-story restaurant has a spacious patio with beautiful views and a menu with shareables as well as best-selling mains like beerbattered fish and chips; and the State 48 burger topped with aged cheddar, beer-battered pickles and IPA-sriracha glazed bacon. 15600 N. Hayden Road., Scottsdale; 480.659.0048; www.state48brewery.com; $-$$

Coffee CARTEL COFFEE LAB

This hip local coffeehouse chain has several locations throughout the Valley, including one in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale. Cartel Coffee Lab sources its coffee beans from around the world, and its quality roasts have earned the roasters notoriety among local restaurants and retailers that serve the brew. Coffee drinkers can purchase coffee by the cup or whole beans to savor at home. 7124 E. 5th Ave., Scottsdale; www. cartelcoffeelab.com; $

JOJO COFFEEHOUSE

JOJO Coffeehouse is a communityfocused breakfast and brunch restaurant in Old Town Scottsdale that dishes up craft products through farm fresh food and drinks. This establishment is thoughtful about using natural and organic ingredients without GMOs and preservatives whenever possible. The build your own omelet option and pumpkin pancakes are wildly popular. 3712 N Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.907.6100; https://jojocoffeehouse.com; $$

SWEETWATERS COFFEE & TEA

This coffeehouse celebrates classic cafe fare alongside globally influenced coffees, teas, frozen drinks, pastries and desserts. While the traditional lattes and mochas are out of this world tasty, the internationally inspired beverages are a great way to step out of any caffeine comfort zone. For instance, the French Vietnamese Au Lait is a masterpiece of Sweetwaters’ dark roasted French chicory coffee and sweetened condensed milk which is an Asian finish to a French coffee. This community melting pot is a great place to sip, relax and repeat. 14850 N 87th St., Scottsdale; 480.410.4118; www.sweetwaterscafe.com; $

THE

VAULT COFFEE & JUICE

The Vault is a coffee and juice bar in the lobby of The Saguaro hotel. Some consider them a hidden gem as hotel guests and visitors alike rave about its freshly squeezed juices and coffee drinks. There’s also smoothies as well as quick bites, such as bagels and muffins. At The Saguaro, 4000 N. Drinkwater Blvd., Scottsdale; 480.308.1100; www.thesaguaro. com; $

VILLAGE COFFEE ROASTERY

For more than 20 years, Village Coffee Roastery has been pouring exceptional coffee for locals. In addition to a wide variety of coffee and espresso beverages, Village Coffee Roastery offers a breakfast

Taste DINING GUIDE

and lunch menu that features burritos, pastries, salads and sandwiches. 8120 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale; 480.905.0881; www.villagecoffee. com; $

Ethnic

NONNA URBAN EATERY

Nestled in Old Town Scottsdale, this diverse restaurant is a combination of traditional dishes from around the world and fusion fare. Pastas are housemade and there’s a variety of fish and beef options as well. Don’t miss the seafood starters and sweet endings. Closed Sunday through Tuesday. 7240 E. Main St., Scottsdale; 480.663.3296; www. nonnascottsdale.com; $$

PASTRIES N CHAAT

Pastries N Chaat is a charming Indian cafe meant to evoke the nostalgia of a neighborhood chaat in India where friends and family would visit to enjoy snacks and pastries with a cup of masala chai. Enjoy sweet and savory delicacies like fruit cakes and samosas. Or stop in for lunch and choose from a wide selection of biriyani. Vegetarian options available. 15050 N. Northsight Blvd., Scottsdale; 602.365.0848; www. pastriesnchaat.com; $$

SIMON’S HOT DOGS

Simon’s Hot Dogs is a family-run restaurant serving hot dogs the Colombian way. Simon’s signature dog, The Colombian, is a street food staple with your choice of a premium all-beef hot dog, Colombian chorizo, a handmade German-style bratwurst, or a vegan hot dog topped with pineapple, mozzarella, Simon’s sauce and crushed potato chips for an added crunch. This fast-casual eatery offers dozens of hot dog variations and a vegan alternative for nearly every item on the menu. Try an imported Colombian soda or a bottle of Arizona craft beer to pair with your meal. 4280 N. Drinkwater Blvd., Scottsdale; 480.426.9218; www. simonshotdogs.net; $

Health Food

FRESH MINT

Owner and executive chef Mai

Ly masters flavorful vegetarian dishes with a Vietnamese spin. The spicy lemongrass noodle soup and golden curry vegetables are guest favorites. The menu also features vegetarian versions of other popular dishes such as kung pao soy chicken and pad thai. Fresh Mint specializes in vegetarian, vegan and kosher dining, and proves that eating healthy can be anything but boring. Gluten-free menu available. Closed Sundays. 13802 N. Scottsdale Road., Scottsdale; www.myfreshmint.com; $$

FRESHBOX

Freshbox is a fast-casual restaurant that serves wholesome meals made with locally sourced and organic ingredients. Customers can embrace healthy eating with the menu’s wide selection of superfood salads, wraps and nutrientpacked smoothies. Plus, all nine dressings are made in-house to ensure the highest quality, and they can be purchased by the bottle. Paleo, gluten-free, vegetarian- and vegan-friendly. 10101 E. Bell Road., Scottsdale; 480.245.4469; www.ilovefreshbox.com; $-$$

MODERN MARKET

Modern Market is focused on madefrom-scratch, clean and sustainable food, from curry salmon and sesame glazed tofu bowls to Thai coconut salad and a variety of pizzas including mushroom, margherita and asparagus prosciutto. Two Arizona locations: 16203 N. Scottsdale Road and 4821 N. Scottsdale Road., Scottsdale; www. modernmarket.com; $$

ORIGINAL CHOPSHOP

Produce-packed juices, protein shakes and healthful bowls and sandwiches can all be found at Original Chopshop, a longtime local favorite. This quick-service restaurant, which serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, is committed to offering tasty fuel for the body by using fresh, whole ingredients, as well as guiltless baked goods for a deliciously sweet treat to end your meal. The menu includes vegan, vegetarian, glutenfree, dairy-free, soy-free and lactosefree items. Three Scottsdale locations: Old Town Scottsdale, The Promenade and Paradise Village Gateway; www. originalchopshop.com; $$

PROTEINHOUSE

This fit kitchen strives to support those who seek nutritious meals in a convenient fast-casual environment. Proteinhouse has an extensive menu that includes healthy salads, high-protein burgers, wraps on-the-go, cold-pressed juices and protein shakes. A section of the breakfast menu is dedicated to all kinds of protein pancakes like the chocolate monster pancakes —whole grain whey protein pancakes infused with dark chocolate chips and topped with bananas, walnuts and sugar-free chocolate protein sauce. Gluten-free and vegan/vegetarian friendly. 7077 E. Mayo Blvd., Scottsdale; 480.502.5183; www. protein-house.com; $$

Island

CARIBBEAN PALM

Jerk spice fans, rejoice: Caribbean Palms is the restaurant for you! Diners rave about the jerk chicken,

pork, burger, fish tacos, and wings. The authentic menu also features customary Caribbean plates such as braised oxtail, curried goat, conch fritters, and rice and beans. Seafood makes up a good portion of the island fare, and savory pasta dishes do not disappoint. 2515 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.947.4343; caribbeanpalmscottsdale.com; $$

HULA’S MODERN TIKI

Hula’s is known for colorful Tiki decor, island fare and tropical cocktails such as the Hurricane featuring three rums, the Pink Bikini Martini with pineappleinfused vodka and watermelon liqueur, and their famous Mai Tai. Menu favorites include Hawaiian ceviche, pot stickers and wings with spicy Asian barbecue sauce, as well as fresh fish and tacos. Two locations: Old Town Scottsdale and City North in Phoenix; www.hulasmoderntiki.com; $$

THE DRUNK MUNK

The Drunk Munk a Tiki bar and Polynesian restaurant in Old Town Scottsdale. The island-inspired menu includes dishes like sweet coconut shrimp, specialty sushi rolls and the Munk’s big burger featuring caramelized pineapple. The cocktail menu will send you to the tropics and back with the shareable rum punches and mai tais. Happy hour daily from 3 to 7 p.m. 7133 E. Stetson Drive, Scottsdale; 480.699.8454; thedrunkmunk.com; $$

LITTLE CAY

This lively Latin Caribbean restaurant offers cuisine from Cuba, Puerto Rico, Central America, and South America. Tapas include empanadas, sauteed shrimp and ham croquettes. Pressed sandwiches include the Cubano and jerk chicken, among others. Diners can also enjoy lamb curry stew, ropa vieja and mofongo. The menu also features Latin and Caribbean desserts, coffee and cocktails. At Paradise Village Gateway, 4912 E. Shea Blvd., Scottsdale; 480.534.4110; www.littlecayaz.com; $$

Latin-Mexican

JUAN JAIME’S TACOS & TEQUILA

Juan Jaime’s is a fiesta of Mexican street tacos and tequila cocktails. The menu consists of tacos, burritos, taco salads and enchiladas. Guests can choose from a variety of grilled meats and seafood and corn or flour tortillas. Head over to the salsa bar for housemade salsas and then over to the actual bar for an ice-cold margarita. Happy hour every day from 4 to 8 p.m. 20343 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale; 480.515.5826; www.juanjaimes.com; $$

HABANERO’S MEXICAN GRILL

Habanero’s is a fast-casual Mexican restaurant serving delicious fare. The blackened shrimp tacos and Guadalajara style carnitas are a Diaz (aka the owner) family recipe, passed down from Arturo’s mother and father who ran a small taco stand in in Jalisco, Mexico. Hot sauce fans will love the fiery signature habanero salsa. Two Scottsdale locations; www.habaneros.mx; $

LOCO PATRON

This casual restaurant is great for getting together with friends over filling Mexican food or stopping in for an icecold beer with lime after a long day. Dishes range from traditional options, like the award-winning crunchy pork taco, to modern fare, such as the Loco protein bowl tossed with chipotle ranch. The North Scottsdale location has an on-site brewery where the Loco Gold, a signature golden ale, is crafted. Happy Hour Monday through Friday from 2 to 6 p.m. Two Scottsdale locations; www.locopatron.com; $$

SALTY SENORITA

It’s always a fiesta at Salty Senorita! Located in Old Town Scottsdale, Salty Senorita has been a longtime hot spot for people to gather and bar hop, eat brunch, catch a game on one of the many TVs, or throw down afterwork margaritas and tacos. Choose from huge selection of tacos, including those with chicken tinga, carne asada, braised short rib, blackened salmon, and grilled shrimp and broccolini to name a few. Happy hour every day from 3 to 7 p.m. and all day Monday. Brunch with bottomless mimosas on Saturday and Sunday. 3748 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.947.2116; www.saltysenorita. com; $$

TALAVERA

Led by acclaimed chef and Mexican native Samantha Sanz, Talavera has transformed into a high-end Latin steakhouse with beautiful decor, stunning views and an exceptional patio. The menu includes tapas; charcutería; paella, including a vegetarian option; fresh vegetables; seafood; and steak. At Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North, 10600 E. Crescent Moon Drive, Scottsdale; 480.513.5085; www.talaverarestaurant.com; $$$$

Mediterranean KITCHEN 18

Kitchen 18 is a fresh, dairy-free, and 100% kosher restaurant. The eclectic menu offers Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Chinese dishes to suit every palate, and guests

appreciate the aromatic freshly baked pita and challah bread. Closed Saturday. 10211 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.284.6001; www.thekitchen18.com; $$

KOVO

The family-owned restaurant offers a variety of traditional cuisines from the Mediterranean region. Chef selections include a dip trio with hummus, tzatziki and feta cheese; the carved meat platter with lamb, beef, chicken gyro meat and homemade Greek sausages; and the lamb burger. Weekend brunch includes shakshuka, a Mediterranean frittata, spanakopita Benedict and cocktails including a Bloody Mary flight. At Paradise Village Gateway, 10625 N. Tatum Blvd., Phoenix; 602.237.5872; www.kovomedi.com; $$

MUNICH GYROS

Munich Gyros serves tasty and affordable Greek fare in the Fountain Hills neighborhood. The restaurant’s specialty is the gyro – tender slices of a beef-lamb combination served with lettuce, tomato, onion and tzatziki wrapped in warm pita bread. Other menu items include hummus, Greek salad, falafel and delicious baklava for a sweet finish. 16948 E. Shea Blvd., Fountain Hills; 480.816.3647; $

PERSIAN ROOM

The Persian Room is a fine dining restaurant with an elegant atmosphere and flavorful dishes that has been in North Scottsdale since 1985. Enjoy meat, seafood and vegetarian dishes with exotic flavors like turmeric, cardamom and saffron from kebabs to stews. 17040 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.614.1414; www.persianroom.com; $$

Pizza

CRISP PREMIUM PIZZA

Crisp is a local pizzeria serving trays of square – yes, square – pizza in Old Town Scottsdale. Pizza chef Adrian Langu has his craft down to an art, from the housemade dough to the hand-crushed tomato sauce. His crisp and airy pizzas can be ordered by the slice or as small or large pies. Get creative with the long list of toppings, but you can’t go wrong with the traditional mozzarella, pecorino, tomato sauce, fresh basil and extra virgin olive oil. Happy hour every day in the bar from 3 to 7 p.m. 7111 E. 5th Ave., Scottsdale; 480.874.2747; www. crisp-pizza.com; $$

HUMBLE PIE

Humble Pie has earned its reputation as a neighborhood favorite for its artisan pizzas, sandwiches, hamburgers,

pastas, salads and dessert in an upbeat, unpretentious atmosphere. The express lunch menu is great for if you’re looking to get in and out within an hour and brunch is served Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Don’t miss the daily specials or “social sixes” menu, which is a selection of drinks and shareables for $6 until 6 p.m. Two Scottsdale locations: Desert Ridge and Hilton Village; www. humblepieusa.com; $$

ROSATI’S PIZZA

The original Rosati’s Pizza started in downtown Chicago back in 1964 by Sam Rosati. Since then, the Italian eatery has spread across the country, bringing Chicago-style pizza to the masses. Guests have a choice of four freshly made delicious styles of Chicago pizza: traditional thin crust, Rosati’s unique double dough, Chicago deep dish, and authentic stuffed. And if you are not quite craving pizza, Rosati’s has salads, pastas and sandwiches too. 7119 E. Shea Blvd., Scottsdale; 480.596.3444; www.rosatispizza.com; $$

SPINATO’S PIZZERIA

The Spinato family opened their first pizzeria after moving from Chicago to Phoenix in 1974. Now with five locations including one in North Scottsdale, guests are treated like family and the focus is on fresh ingredients. Pizza options range from the signature spinach pizza to the Chicago with Italian sausage, red onion and bell peppers.

11108 N. Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd., Scottsdale; 480.391.2347; www.spinatospizzeria.com; $$

YO PAULY’S NEW YORK PIZZA CO.

Yo Pauly’s is a New York-style pizza shop that features specialty pies and dinners. People love the garlic knots and the giant, 24-inch pizzas. Don’t forget an order of cannolis for dessert! Closed Sunday. 8880 E. Via Linda, Scottsdale; 480.451.4400; www.yopaulysnypizza.com; $$

Seafood

CHULA SEAFOOD

A family-owned-and-operated fishery that sources sustainable seafood from the Pacific coast, Chula Seafood provides fresh seafood to several local restaurants. The restaurant’s menu can change daily, based on availability, but often features fresh Hawaiianstyle poke bowls, sashimi and the famous green chile tuna melt. Patrons can purchase never-frozen, sustainable fish by the pound, poke, smoked fish and daily specials from Chula’s fish market. 20581 N. Hayden Road, 480.597.9125; and 8015 E. Roosevelt

St., Scottsdale; 480.621.5121; www. chulaseafood.com; $$

COCONUT’S FISH CAFE

Famous for its fish tacos, Coconut’s Fish Cafe is a Hawaiian-based eatery. Home of the Zagat-rated perfect fish taco, they use grilled ono and mahi mahi tossed with organic tomato salsa, housemade coleslaw, and mango salsa on a white corn tortilla. Guests can choose between a variety of grilling seasonings as well. Coconut shrimp and the grilled fish sandwich on a freshly baked challah bun are other popular favorites. Two locations in Scottsdale: Frank Lloyd Wright Boulevard and Shea Boulevard; www.coconutsaz.com; $$

KOI POKE

Fans of Koi rave about the fresh “boat to bowl” fish and eight unique sauces used to customize poke bowls here. Meals can be as simple as desired or as decadent as adding lobster and Champagne butter as toppings. There’s also a wide selection of beer, sake and wine to add on to any meal. Pick up a bottle of local Rad Juice or try the Hawaiian snow ice for a sweet treat. 18221 N. Pima Rd., Scottsdale. www.koipoke.com; $$

ROCKEFELLER

Locally owned and tucked away in the McCormick Ranch area, Rockefeller serves up fresh, chef-sourced seafood in a sophisticated, yet relaxed setting. You’ll find oysters on the half shell, Peruvian ceviche, and lobster risotto to be the standout dishes on a menu where classics sit beside elevated seafood specialties. The wine list is well thought out and the signature cocktails are creative and pleasing to a variety of palates. Happy hour daily from 4 to 6 p.m. and all day Monday. 8260 N. Hayden Rd., Suite A-100; 480.687.3757; www.rockefellerscottsdale.com; $-$$$$

THE MONTAUK

This seaside-themed bungalow is the perfect Old Town Scottsdale setting for seersucker pants and boat shoes. Aside from the expected warm and cold lobster rolls, the menu also features lighter options like cauliflower rice and tuna tartare guacamole. The beachy patio and dining room is often host to lively groups, especially during brunch on the weekends known for tableside mimosas. 4360 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.994.1888; www.themontaukaz.com; $$

Steakhouse

BUFFALO CHIP SALOON

Since 1951, Buffalo Chip Saloon has grown to become an Arizona icon

and destination for a Wild West event and dining experience. At the saloon, guests can learn how to line dance, watch live bull riding on Wednesday and Friday nights, or bring the entire family in for the all-you-can-eat fish fry. Can’t miss menu items include the mesquite charcoal-fired steaks and the beef brisket sandwich. From barbecued meats and a classic steakhouse wedge salad to corn dogs and fries for the kiddos, there is something for everyone at the Buffalo Chip. 6823 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek; 480.488.9118; www.buffalochipsaloon.com; $$

FLEMING’S PRIME

STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR

Fleming’s is a nationally renowned steakhouse that serves exceptional USDA prime and certified Angus beef. Starters include shrimp cocktail, lobster bisque and crab cakes, while favorite sides range from Fleming’s Potatoes with cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses and jalapeno to chipotle cheddar mac and cheese. End the meal with chocolate lava cake, classic New York cheesecake, or chocolate butter cake. Private dining rooms available. Two Scottsdale locations; www.flemingssteakhouse.com; $$$-$$$$

FOGO DE CHAO BRAZILIAN STEAKHOUSE

No one does all-you-can-eat meat like a Brazilian steakhouse. The Fogo de Chão Churrasco experience includes servers that continually bring skewers of meat carved tableside including filet mignon, sirloin, ribeye steak, pork, lamb and chicken, as well as Brazilian sides including crispy polenta and caramelized bananas. Seafood appetizers and entrees are also on the menu. 6300 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.609.8866; www.fogodechao.com; $$$-$$$$

MORTON’S THE STEAKHOUSE

Morton’s is a nationwide chain of steakhouses known for serving some of the best cuts of USDA prime-aged beef in the country. The recipes are so popular that they are published in Morton’s Steak Bible and Morton’s The Cookbook for home chefs to replicate. Don’t forget to add some surf to your turf by pairing your steak with seafood selections like the Alaskan king crab legs. Private dining rooms and catering are also available. Power Hour beverage and food specials in the bar Monday through Friday from 5 to 6:30 p.m. and 9 p.m. to close and all day on Sunday. At Kierland Commons, 15233 N. Kierland Blvd., Scottsdale; 480.951.

GATEWAY CELEBRITY FIGHT NIGHT

Gateway for Cancer Research hosted a Studio 54-themed gala at JW Marriot Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort and Spa. The star-studded evening featured an entertainment lineup produced by Gammy-winning musical director David Foster.

Thelma Houston and Nile Rodgers

Richard J. Stephenson and Dr. Stacie J. Stephenson

Taylor Dayne

Jennifer and Adam Archuleta

Josh Kelly, Caroline Rhea and Joey Fatone

Veronica Penzone and Tammy Fellows

Katharine McPhee Foster and David Foster

Stephane and Kyle Vanden

Jamir and Racquel Miller

Elisabeth Rohm and Peter Glatzer

COURTESY OF BOB AND DAWN DAVIS PHOTOGRAPHY AND DESIGN/LEE MEDIA

VIENNA CARNIVAL

Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia set the scene for Arizona Opera’s annual gala. Festivities kicked off with cocktails, followed by onenight-only performances and dinner.

Christine and Steve Nowaczyk

Peter Morgan and Emily Misch

Jeanne Ackerley and Catherine Jestadt

Crystal Blackwell and Anne Mariella

Kristin Atwell Ford and Pnina Becher

Suzanne and David Kinney

Jindra Rieger and David Friedman

Bradley Taylor and Elena Maniscalco

Ashley Parks and Jeannette Segel

Perry Soderberg and Gail Babcock

BY DAVID APEJI

CHILDREN HELPING CHILDREN

PANDA’s 23rd annual Fashion Show & Luncheon took place at Arizona Biltmore. The daytime soiree, which raised funds and awareness for Steele Children’s Research Center, featured a silent auction and happy hour, followed by a fashion show and luncheon, with an after-party to close out the event.

Stephanie Leigh and Meryl Hall

Jeff and Natalie Gray

Ashley Valentine and Christy Lubeck

Allison Babeck and Gina Sandorn

Monique Hampton and Ashley Crowell

Zach Crowell and Caroline Carmigiano

Valerie Parzych and Jenna Hilton

Nicole and Andrew Hopkinson

Caroline Van Arsdale and Stuart Crawford

Jessica Lauvao

BY DAVID APEJI

Laura Golding, Licci Bebau and Christi Brink

Lara McDonald and Whitney Miller

Aubrey Hill and Nicole Hill

Catie Bell, and Desty and Adam Kamm

Seen EVENTS

BLUE HAWAII GALA

Child Crisis Arizona celebrated its milestone 45th anniversary at JW Marriott Camelback Inn Resort & Spa with an island-inspired evening of fun. A shaved ice bar, casino games and fundraising games, in addition to a silent auction, dancing and live music, were just some of the activities guests enjoyed.

Justin and Jen Duran

Sam Fowler and Kristina Chumpol

Shonna and Jason Dudar

Anton Ray and David Bridgman

Cory and Bethany Martin

John and Liz Pierson

Thalia and Dominick Dente

David and Dina Cohen

Any and Jeff Friesen

Tonya Young and Tiffany Johnson

BY COLLEEN KATZ

Brooke Wasowicz and Alanna Corwin

Mike and Summer Schneider

Renee Higgs

Carrie Dentente

DRAG & PONY BRUNCH

Hunkapi Programs hosted a farm-to-table brunch featuring food from Beats n’ Roots as well as a bloody mary and mimosa bar. Jaida Essence Hall, season 12 winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race, along with four other influential drag queens, were in attendance.

Rob Chavarry and Terra Schaad

Afi Maita and Carey Peña

Benaddiction and Eva Angelica Stratton

Tami Hanks and Tami Escarcega

Madison Jones and Megan Kossow

Hollywood Hope and Merle Bass

Michael Petersen and Vershalee Shukla

Alix Wilson and Lisa Lenstrohm

Kristin Kurtz and Megan Wiewel

Geri Hormel and Alex Onken

BY BEVERLY SHUMWAY

FRESH START GALA

Fresh Start Women’s Foundation held its annual gala at The Phoenician Resort. The evening included cocktails, dinner, dancing and a fashion display in support of the women the foundation benefits.

BY DAVID APEJI

Scott and Nancy Robertson

Bonnie Deady, Mary Ortega and Lauren Siddall

Tonyia Castle, Katie Kane and Tracey Lytle

Jordan and Don Johnson

Pamela Culpeper and Adrienne Wright

Sarah Marcori and Dwayne Marcori

Katie Mueller and Helene Presutti

Sylvia White and Anne Medina-Doak

Liz Motter and Andy Cruz

Scott and Jaylene Clausen

Gwen and Jim Connor

Tracey and Larry Lytle, and Lata Quinn

Conor and Lily McNulty

Sarah and Nick Marcori

Tiffanie Leyvas, Renie Scibona and Jill Krigsten

Kate Hickman and Rich and Beth Nickel

Jessica Pennington and Becky Damico

Dana Jennings and Teresa Kleinlein

Shari Markoski and Ronda Yoon

Kathleen and Joe Long

Hallie and Kevin Frank

Phillip Wiltfong and Andrea Casavilca

HAVE A HOOT!

Night Owl brings pizza, pinball, skateboards, and smashburgers to south Scottsdale

BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ

Night Owl also has a small stage for live acts and DJs, a 2,700-square-foot patio that is similarly eccentric, and a psychedelic funhouse mirror that leads the way to the restrooms.

The square wooden bar, which lights up, is just as whimsical at the rest of the space as it is made from retired pinball machines. Above the bar are several flatscreen televisions, most often playing live sports. In addition to the more standard tables, chairs and couches at Night Owl, there are wine and whiskey barrels strewn throughout the space that serve as additional spots to set down a cocktail or plunk down a pie.

Night Owl, open since March, is a neighborhood hangout and newly minted hotspot unlike any other in Scottsdale.

The brainchild of some of the Valley’s heaviest hospitality hitters – Genuine Concepts co-founder Tucker Woodbury, Cobra Arcade Bar founders Chuckie Duff and Ariel “Ari” Bracamonte, and Ziggy’s Pizza and Stardust Pinball Lounge founder and chef Greg Zeigler – Night Owl is a full-on sensory experience well beyond just a bar or restaurant concept.

Within its 2,700 square feet, the dimly lit Night Owl features a full-scale arcade with pinball machines, vintage arcade games, and more than a dozen table and/or board games. The space also doubles as a pop culture art exhibit with skateboard- and owl-themed art installations in every direction as well as a smattering of retro posters showcasing iconic local live shows from Arizona’s past as well as visual tributes to the likes of everyone from The Beatles to Looney Tunes. There are clear nods to several of the founders’ concepts as well, especially the replica of the “wall of wood” from The Little Woody, a Genuine concept.

Speaking of food and drink, the menu, much like Ziggy’s Pizza, is a love letter to New York-style pizza, and features three varieties by the slice as well as nine specialty offerings ranging from $22 to $30 each, all available on gluten-free crust for an additional fee. There are also a few salads, comfort food starters and sides like wings, garlic knots, and fries, and then a menu of smashburgers, named because they are smashed flat over the grill during the cooking process to create a slightly crispy outside while remaining juicy inside. At lunch, enjoy the regular offerings or opt for a combo of select items or two slices of pizza for $9.

The drink menu boasts more than two dozen beers by the bottle or on draft, canned wines, and select wines by the bottle and glass. There are also 10 specialty cocktails, all quirkily named or versions of popular offerings from the owners’ sister concepts, and a menu of “bell ringers,” which are $6 shots in frozen glasses that guests get to literally ring a bell after they finish.

Night Own is open from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. seven nights a week.

Night Owl, 1645 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale; www.nightowlaz.com; 480.687.1827.

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