Home & Design
LAGUNA
Coastal Gems
BY WAY OF THE JOHN STANALAND GROUP
2665 Victoria Drive | Laguna Beach
$17,995,000 | 5 BEDROOMS, 4 BATHROOMS, 2 POWDER ROOMS APPROXIMATELY 5,342 SQUARE FEET OF LIVING AREA, APPROXIMATELY 6,020 SQUARE FOOT LOT
Laguna Beach oceanfront Mark Singer A.I.A.-designed residence with expansive ocean, Catalina Island, and sunset views set atop a bluff in Victoria Beach - one of the most desirable enclaves of Southern California. Sited with intention to fully capture the endless Pacific vistas, this contemporary offering with multiple outdoor spaces is nestled in a quiet part of the neighborhood yet just minutes away from the area’s local restaurants and galleries.
WEB# LG24130702
2095 TEMPLE HILLS DRIVE | LAGUNA BEACH
$25,000,000 | 6 BEDROOMS, 6 BATHROOMS, 3 POWDER ROOMS
The Retreat - separated from the street by a private gate, this property, sited on nearly an acre, is positioned to take advantage of the ocean, city, and canyon views.
WEB# LG24123344
547 TEMPLE HILLS DRIVE | LAGUNA BEACH
$5,995,000 | 5 BEDROOMS, 4 BATHROOMS, 1 POWDER ROOM
A stunning example of contemporary Laguna Beach architecture with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, this highly updated home features multiple outdoor spaces.
WEB# LG24182009
HOME & DESIGN
Local stores offer a diverse lineup of products to decorate an abode.
By TANYA A. YACINA
40 LET THERE BE LIGHT
Longtime Laguna Beach friends shine bright with their successful lighting design business. By TANYA A. YACINA
GREEN BY DESIGN
Local experts offer tips for an eco-friendly approach to construction that also fosters health and happiness in your home environment. By LAGUNA BEACH MAGAZINE STAFF
Contents features / departments
CUSTOM CREATIONS
Stand out in the crowd with these bespoke accessories by ateliers in town.
By SHARON STELLO
TRAVEL: PARADISE FOUND
At Origins Lodge in Costa Rica’s northern jungle, luxury and sustainability coexist with nature.
By JUSTINE AMODEO
TASTE OF THE TOWN
Explore the latest news about dining out in Laguna Beach.
DEPARTMENTS
Calendar of Events
Around Town
A look at the latest happenings around Laguna
Community Getzlaf Golf Shootout; Night at The Ranch; With My Own Two Hands Film Gala; Chef Masters 22
A&G: Clay Creations
Local artists Kyle Caris and Bill Darnall craft exquisite ceramic dishes and decorative works of art.
24
W&D: Warm Up With Whiskey Its rich character and timeless appeal make this versatile spirit the ideal ingredient for cozy cocktails this fall.
26
Q&A: Hit the Ground Running
After only a few months, Laguna Beach Run Club has taken off with nearly 100 members. 58
Last Impressions: 10 Minutes With … Chuck Harrell
The longtime Sandpiper Lounge owner looks back on more than 50 years of running the “Dirty Bird.”
COVER: The Valeo floor lamp by Cerno, a successful lighting company founded by three longtime Laguna Beach friends (page 40)
3501 Sausalito Drive | Corona del Mar
625 Kings Rd | Newport Beach
N Portola | Laguna Beach
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2507 Island View Dr | Newport Beach
Broadway | Costa Mesa 19892 Summit Trail Rd | Trabuco Canyon 1751 Candlestick Ln | Newport Beach
Magazine
CORPORATE PUBLISHER
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ADVERTISING DIRECTOR
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EDITORIAL
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Editor’s Letter / Making Your House a Home
When it comes to decorating your abode, Laguna Beach might be a smaller town but its many independent home stores offer a wide array of furniture, decor, textiles and more for decking out a house in just about any style. Often these boutiques are curated with unique finds from across the country—even around the globe—and vintage items as well.
In this issue of Laguna Beach Magazine, which contains a Home & Design special section, we highlight many local shops filled with home goods and some of their top products to consider adding to your living space (page 34).
This edition also explores eco-friendly home design materials and methods, with tips from local experts, who believe that sustainability is not only about reducing harm to the planet, but also ensuring a healthy space for people living in the home (page 44). And, lastly, the home section features Cerno lighting company, which was founded by three longtime Laguna Beach friends and has found much success over the years, striking a balance between form and function in its fixtures (page 40).
Elsewhere in the magazine, one story looks at ways to stand out from the crowd, with custom accessories offered by businesses in town. From hats and handbags to jewelry and even fragrances, these options help individuals tell their story and create a signature look (page 28).
We also showcase whiskey-based drinks to warm you up during the cooler months (page 24), a popular new running club (page 26) and two local ceramic artists who will be exhibiting at Sawdust Art Festival’s Winter Fantasy—for anyone on the lookout for holiday gift ideas (page 22).
As always, we hope you find inspiration within these pages as well as some ideas for fun, local events to attend or businesses to support in the community this season.
Sharon Stello Group Editor sharon@firebrandmediainc.com
Sustainable design includes not only taking advantage of natural light and other materials and methods to reduce your carbon footprint, but also making the space healthy for those living in the home, like this room by interior designer Deana Duffek. For more, turn to page 44.
calendarof events
LAGUNA BICYCLE FESTIVAL
OCT. 25-27; FESTIVAL OF ARTS GROUNDS
Jam-packed with all things related to bicycles—road, mountain, BMX, custom and vintage bikes—this new festival will present an “Evolution of the Bicycle” exhibit, an expo, live music and films, stunt shows, demo bikes, group rides, clinics, guest speakers and meet-andgreets with professional athletes. There will also be bike races and crafts for kids. (lagunabikefest.com)
“A VIEW FROM THE BRIDGE”
OCT. 30 - NOV. 17; LAGUNA PLAYHOUSE
Set in an Italian American neighborhood in 1950s New York, desire and jealousy collide in this Tony Award-winning play by Arthur Miller, which follows longshoreman Eddie Carbone as he navigates the trials and
tribulations of family life and attempts to assimilate in society, all while pursuing the American dream. (949-4972787; lagunaplayhouse.com)
ART & NATURE
NOV. 2-11; LAGUNA ART MUSEUM AND OTHER VENUES
While this year’s Art & Nature initiative
includes exhibits by Frank Tomaselli and Jay DeFeo that continue into next year, the main event runs for 10 days in early November to foster appreciation for both art and nature. In addition to a Nov. 2 A kick-off event and a special Live at the Museum performance Nov. 3, a choreographed dance presentation and community
arts projects will take place Nov. 9. Artist Christian Sampson will install his work, “Ocean Ions,” throughout Main Beach and Heisler Park—also incorporating dance performances—to explore the interplay between light, color and movement. (949-494-8971; lagunaartmuseum.org)
CREATIVITYFLOW: WHERE DESIGN & ART MEETS COMMERCE
NOV. 6 AND DEC. 4; RIVIAN SOUTH COAST THEATER
This new monthly event series, featuring creative leaders from top companies like Oakley, Liquid Death, Rivian, Blizzard Entertainment and the NFL, is presented by Laguna College of Art & Design together with Group Y, a leading network of youth culture professionals. The goal is to celebrate visionaries who are revolutionizing their fields from gaming to branding, fashion, fine art, consumer goods, action sports, automotive and more. (creativityflow.co)
COAST FILM & MUSIC FESTIVAL NOV. 9-17; FESTIVAL OF ARTS GROUNDS AND OTHER VENUES
Returning for its sixth year, the Coast Film & Music Festival presents outdoor films from around the world, including features, shorts, documentaries, animation, youth and student films that share informative, entertaining and inspirational stories about people
BMX demonstrations are just one part of Laguna Bicycle Festival.
“Ocean Ions” by artist Christian Sampson will be part of Art & Nature.
A panel discussion at a past year’s Coast Film & Music Festival.
and their relation to nature, from the mountains to the sea. The festival also features live music, guest speakers, food, kids activities, outdoor experiences like biking and kayaking outings, and booths for local nonprofits to share information about environmental protection efforts. While the main festival runs Nov. 15-17 at the Festival of Arts grounds, other venues will be utilized throughout the nine-day event. (coastfilmfestival.com)
“KEEP IT GAY”
NOV. 15-16; NO SQUARE THEATRE
In partnership with local group Laguna Beach Pride 365, No Square Theatre presents its first pride concert filled with musical theater songs that celebrate the mantra that “love is love, no matter what” and will make audience members feel proud of their individuality. Arrive early for a preshow mixer with cocktails. (949715-0333; nosquare.org)
WINTER FANTASY
NOV. 22 - DEC. 22; SAWDUST ART FESTIVAL GROUNDS
Shop for locally made holiday gifts while soaking in the festive atmosphere complete with carolers, three stages of live music, balloon artists and magicians, marionette puppet
shows, complimentary photos with Santa and more. The event runs Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays for five weeks and features 168 local artists and makers. Take part in winterthemed art, craft and pottery classes for all ages, and enjoy hot beverages, libations and tasty treats. Additionally, the Laguna Beach Fire Department will present a special Breakfast with Santa on Dec. 10. (949-494-3030; sawdustartfestival.org)
JASON RICCI
NOV. 29; LAGUNA BEACH CULTURAL ARTS CENTER
Providing a venue for touring blues legends in its latest series, the Laguna Beach Cultural Arts Center has presented musicians from Matthew Curry to the three-time Grammy-nominated Lurrie Bell. On Nov. 29, Jason Ricci takes the stage to wow the crowd with his talents on the harmonica. (949-652-2787; lbculturalartscenter.org)
SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY
NOV. 30; VARIOUS LOCATIONS
A national movement, Small Business Saturday takes place every year on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, encouraging people to shop at independently owned businesses to support
ONGOING
FIRST THURSDAYS ART WALK: Nov. 7; VARIOUS LOCATIONS
First Thursdays Art Walk is a beloved tradition in town that encourages locals and visitors to view artwork and mingle at local galleries. As part of Laguna Dance Festival’s 20th anniversary season, dance performances will be presented in immersive settings at various venues during art walks in November, March and April. (949-463-4800; firstthursdaysartwalk.org)
LAGUNA ART MUSEUM:
their local economy. In Laguna, shoppers can collect stamps in a special passport for the chance to win prizes. (949-494-1018; thinklagunafirst.com)
HOSPITALITY NIGHT
DEC. 6; DOWNTOWN
Gather with neighbors to sing carols and watch as Santa lights the tree during Hospitality Night, the annual holiday block party presented downtown by the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce and the city of Laguna Beach. Running from about 5-9 p.m., the festivities start with Santa’s arrival at the Peppertree Lot to greet attendees before lighting the tree at 6:10 p.m. Enjoy performances by No Square Theatre, student bands and other music groups as well as holiday crafts and activities, open houses by local businesses, and tamales, cookies and cider at Laguna Presbyterian Church’s art market. (949-464-6645; lagunabeachcity.net) /
EDITOR’S NOTE: EVENTS MAY CHANGE. CHECK WITH ORGANIZERS FOR UPDATES.
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In addition to art exhibits, check out special events, including a Kids Studio, allowing children to experiment with different artistic mediums and styles, on Oct. 26, and Upcycled Couture, a fashion show of designs made with repurposed materials, on Nov. 2 as part of the Art & Nature initiative. (949-494-8971; lagunaartmuseum.org)
LAGUNA BEACH FARMERS MARKET:
Saturdays, 8 a.m. to noon; Forest Avenue and Laguna Canyon Road (ocerac.ocpublicworks.com)
LAGUNA BEACH LIVE:
This nonprofit presents a free program for kids up to age 6 at 11:30 a.m. Tuesdays at Laguna Beach Library and chamber concerts from 1-2 p.m. on the first Sunday of the month at Laguna Art Museum. (949-715-9713; lagunalive.org)
NATURE HIKES: Various dates; Laguna Canyon Foundation (949-497-8324; lagunacanyon.org)
SAWDUST STUDIO ART CLASSES: Sawdust Art Festival may have already ended for the season, but year-round art classes are offered at the festival grounds in mediums from photography to acrylic and watercolor painting, pottery, mosaics and glassblowing. (949-4943030; sawdustartfestival.org)
WINE CRAFT:
Explore your artistic side while tasting wine; projects have ranged from painting on canvas to decorating wine glasses and seasonal items. (949-3760007; winecraftoc.com)
Winter Fantasy offers gift options made by local artisans as well as a holiday atmosphere and entertainment.
Around Town / Born to Be Local
This fall, Festival of Arts presents “Endless Summer”—an exhibit at foaSouth inside Active Culture through Jan. 20—showcasing the beauty and creativity of Southern California through the eyes of festival artists Mark Jacobucci, Brad Neal, Paige Oden, John Repka, Anthony Salvo, Michael Situ and Mike Tauber, each offering their interpretations of cherished Laguna summer experiences and keeping the warm beach season in mind even through fall and winter months. (foapom.com)
A new travel company specializing in unique, custom trips to Guatemala launched in September, cofounded by Gabrielle Beran, a Laguna Beach High School graduate who competed in swimming and water polo while attending her alma mater. Beran, a north Laguna resident, started the boutique business, Born to Be Local, with Erinn Fortman after meeting at a dive bar in Orange County and instantly connecting over their love for travel, photography and authentic cultural experiences. In January 2023, they took a trip to Guatemala and—while bonding over some tequila—began talking about how they wanted to change the way people travel. They wanted to share “that electric feeling when you really connect with a place and its people.” On their trip, Beran and Fortman fell in love with the locals, the stunning sights and culture of Guatemala and decided to start their own travel company with this Central American country as their first destination. They spent months finding the best of Guatemala and curating experiences that only a local can provide. Reservations are being accepted for several trips planned in 2025 from January through May. The company offers two distinct services: customized trip planning with itineraries tailored to each client’s budget, length of stay and personal preferences, and group trips geared toward young adults ages 18 to 35. The latter, called The Ultimate Weekend in Antigua, Guatemala, are immersive, four-day, three-night excursions. “It’s a great way to get a taste of everything Guatemala has to offer,” Beran says. (borntobelocal.com) —Sharon Stello
“Evening
Gabrielle Beran (top right) and Erinn Fortman launched Born to be Local travel company.
on the Boardwalk” by Brad Neal
GIVING BACK
Cleaning up Main Beach Park are (from left in yellow vests) Surf & Sand Resort workers Oscar Huerta, Ivonne Chagolla, Cinthya Lopez and Erica Zotea with Laguna Beach Public Works employee Reggie Christian
While Surf & Sand Resort was undergoing renovations over the summer, employees took on another project: helping to beautify the city. The resort’s staff contributed more than 4,046 hours toward community service projects such as picking up trash, removing weeds and helping to maintain pathways at Main Beach and Heisler Park. Resort workers also collaborated with the Laguna Ocean Foundation, educating visitors about local tide pools and marine ecosystems. Resort staff were also involved with historic restoration as they worked on refurbishing the historic Hortense Miller home, a midcentury modern structure that was donated to the city in the 1970s and remains open for public tours along with its gardens. Surf & Sand recognized the need for repairs and mobilized a team of skilled maintenance staff and painters who scraped, sanded and painted for over 120 hours. Their efforts helped to preserve this iconic home overlooking Boat Canyon. “This collaboration is a perfect example of the power of public-private partnerships,” Laguna Beach Mayor Sue Kempf said in a press release. Joanna Bear, general manager of Surf & Sand Resort, added that partnering with the city “has been an incredibly rewarding experience for us” and “a win-win for everyone involved.” (Surf & Sand Resort: 949-497-4477; surfandsandresort.com) —S.S.
Sustainable Accommodations
Recognized for their eco-friendly efforts, two local hotels are part of the Surfrider Foundation’s new Ocean Friendly Hotel program, which seeks to reduce single-use plastics among other environmental goals. The Ranch at Laguna Beach was the program’s first in California to achieve the designation; Hotel Joaquin in north Laguna has also joined the program, which launched in September, expanding on the foundation’s Ocean Friendly Restaurants initiative. To take part, hotels must meet seven criteria including banning the sale and use of plastic beverage bottles and bags on-site; eliminating small plastic bottles for toiletries in the rooms; providing water refill stations for guests and more. Hotels must also choose at least three other actions like getting rid of singleuse coffee and tea pods or utilizing room keys that are reusable or made from natural materials.
The Ranch has long committed to sustainability from having reusable toiletry bottles and wooden room keys to practices like recycling glass bottles into sand for its golf course bunkers, irrigating with
reclaimed water, maintaining a half-acre biodynamic farm and featuring two Surfrider-recognized Ocean Friendly Restaurants on the property plus its off-site Lost Pier Cafe. The resort has also replaced all single-use plastics with eco-friendly alternatives. Meanwhile, the adults-only Hotel Joaquin has also committed to cutting out wasteful single-use plastics to help preserve the coast and protect marine wildlife from plastic pollution. Guests each receive a traditional metal key on a vintage-looking keychain and may refill their custom glass bottles at water stations around the property. On-site gift shops only sell reeffriendly sunscreen and fresh coffee is delivered to rooms each morning in tall thermoses instead of equipping rooms with machines and plastic coffee pods. The hotel’s eatery, Saline, is also noted as an Ocean Friendly Restaurant. And Hotel Joaquin is working to support the dark sky movement by minimizing its outdoor lighting. (The Ranch at Laguna Beach: 888-316-0959; theranchlb.com) (Hotel Joaquin: 949494-5294; hoteljoaquin.com) —S.S.
Top row and middle: The Ranch at Laguna Beach has long committed to sustainability, from having its own halfacre biodynamic farm to recycling glass bottles into sand for its golf course bunkers and irrigating with reclaimed water. Bottom row: Hotel Joaquin has eliminated single-use plastics and gives every guest a traditional metal key.
A Luxury Collective
Visit Laguna Beach has been accepted into Virtuoso’s exclusive portfolio of luxury travel partners—one of only seven tourism boards in the state—joining the network’s global collection of the finest luxury resorts, hotels, airlines, cruise lines, tour operators and other travel entities that specialize in world-class client service and experiences, rare opportunities and exceptional value. A global travel agency network that specializes in luxury and experiential travel, Virtuoso is a by-invitation-only organization comprising more than 1,200 travel agency locations with more than 20,000 travel advisers in 58 countries; these agencies sell an average of $35 billion per year, making this network the most significant in luxury travel. Being included in Virtuoso means Visit Laguna Beach gains new sales and marketing opportunities with the network’s travel advisers and their highly desirable clients all around the globe, in North and Latin America, the Caribbean, Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Asia and the Pacific. “Joining the Virtuoso network is a remarkable milestone for Laguna Beach,” Rachel O’Neill-Cusey, CEO of Visit Laguna Beach, said in a press release. “This prestigious recognition amplifies our ability to attract visitors who will boost the local economy while showcasing the beauty and unique experiences of our coastal community to a global audience, reinforcing Laguna Beach as a must-visit luxury destination for international and national travelers.” (visitlagunabeach.com) —S.S.
We have something for everyone: gluten free, vegan, lamb, chicken, beef & fish.
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Virtuoso’s exclusive portfolio of luxury travel partners now includes Visit Laguna Beach.
ART & NATURE
Celebrating the intersection between artistic expression and the environment, Laguna Art Museum’s annual Art & Nature initiative returns this fall for its 12th edition. Exhibits by artists Frank Tomaselli and Jay DeFeo continue into next year, but the main event features large-scale installations and festivities from Nov. 2-11. Artist Christian Sampson will install his work, “Ocean Ions,” throughout Main Beach and Heisler Park to explore the interplay between light, color, movement and spirituality. At the same time, his installation—vibrant circular forms animated by sunlight—will examine the ways that ions (charged particles) influence nature and human perception. Events kick off Nov. 2 with Upcycled Couture, a fashion show of sustainable, upcycled designs. A special Live at the Museum performance follows
Nov. 3, and the “Ocean Ions” installation opens Nov. 7. Then, on Nov. 9, Laguna artist and scientist Oriana Poindexter will lead a community art project, Portrait of Place, using historic photo methods to develop a picture of Laguna’s marine ecosystem; participants will study ocean specimens and create detailed pieces that highlight underwater life. Later that day, a choreographed dance presentation by Volta Collective will complement Sampson’s outdoor installation. Free Museum Day on Nov. 10 will include a variety of art activities for all ages, refreshments, guided tours and giveaways. An art workshop, Drawing for the Planet: The Tiger’s Forest, closes the week on Nov. 11. Meanwhile, DeFeo’s “Trees” exhibit runs through Jan. 12 with rarely seen drawings from her “Trees” series and 1970s photos of trees. Tomaselli’s exhibit, “Second Nature,” on display through Feb. 2, feature collaged and
Laguna’s Luminaries
“Ocean Ions” by Christian Sampson will be installed at Main Beach during Art & Nature.
hand-painted elements between layers of clear resin, plus selections from his New York Times series, which chronicles events and emotions as the pandemic unfolded; his work delves into topics like the pandemic, race relations, police brutality and climate change. (949-494-8971; lagunaartmuseum.org) —S.S.
Three ambassadors—each internationally respected within their fields—have been named to promote Laguna Beach as a multifaceted destination and encourage environmental stewardship around the world and here at home. The initiative by local tourism marketing agency Visit Laguna Beach includes ocean activist and avid paddleboarder Rich German;
renowned mountain biker Hans Rey; and world champion skimboarder Amber Torrealba. During their speaking engagements and travels across the globe, these luminaries will represent Laguna Beach and promote the destination as a great place to visit while also advocating for environmental responsibility. German has paddleboarded more than 30,000 miles
and documented thousands of encounters with marine life, which have been featured by publications including The New York Times and National Geographic; he’s also the founder of Project O, an ocean conservation nonprofit, and hosts “Our Epic Ocean” podcast. Rey, a Mountain Bike Hall of Fame inductee, is known for exploring extreme locations on two wheels and pushing the limits of where a bike can take you; he’s also the founder of Wheels 4 Life charity, which supplies bikes for those in need in developing countries. Torrealba, a five-time Vic World Champion skimboarder who moved to Laguna from Florida, is also a filmmaker and advocate for women in the sport; she will use her platform to highlight Laguna’s vibrant outdoor lifestyle. By partnering with these new ambassadors, Visit Laguna Beach seeks to align its tourism efforts with sustainable practices. (visitlagunabeach.com) —S.S.
Laguna Beach’s new ambassadors (from left), Hans Rey, Amber Torrealba and Rich German (pictured with a blue whale)
A HOME RUN FOR ART
Over the summer, a special event hit it out of the park, bringing together the Boys & Girls Club of Laguna Beach, LOCA Arts Education and John Carpino, president of the Los Angeles Angels baseball team. On Aug. 14, a group of nearly 30 children took part in two creative projects: Merging sports and artistic expression, they used baseball equipment to paint a mural, then also made personalized thank you cards for the Angels team with guidance from LOCA Arts Education instructors. The kids, ages 6 and up, each received an Angels hat, jersey and four tickets to a game. Carpino engaged with the kids, encouraging their creativity and adding to the memorable day’s excitement. (949494-2535; bgclagunabeach.org) —S.S. /
John Carpino, president of the Los Angeles Angels baseball team, with kids from Boys & Girls Club of Laguna Beach during a special baseball-themed art session with LOCA Arts Education
Community / Galas & Events
GETZLAF GOLF SHOOTOUT
Nearly $500,000 was raised for CureDuchenne—a Newport Beach nonprofit that’s working to find a cure for Duchenne muscular dystrophy, which mostly affects boys and young men—during the 13th annual Getzlaf Golf Shootout on Sept. 13-14 at Monarch Beach Golf Links in Dana Point. Following an MVP Dinner on Friday night for players and sponsors, golfers teed off Saturday for the tournament, which featured on-course appearances by the Anaheim Ducks Power Players and Wild Wing mascot, food, games and giveaways, a dunk tank and hole-in-one opportunities to win a Porsche. Silent and live auctions featured once-in-a-lifetime trips and experiences. Since the golf tournament’s beginning, former Anaheim Ducks hockey team Capt. Ryan Getzlaf and his wife, Paige, have helmed the event and helped to raise more than $6.3 million over the past 13 years. They have now passed hosting duties to Anaheim Ducks All-Star right wing Troy Terry and his wife, Danielle, who have a 16-month-old son and are eager to continue efforts to support CureDuchenne starting with next year’s event. “Duchenne mainly affects boys and young men and with a young son of our own, this cause hits close to home for us,” Troy Terry said in a news release. “We can’t wait to lead this event to even greater heights alongside CureDuchenne.” (cureduchenne.org) —Sharon Stello
NIGHT AT THE RANCH
An evening under the stars brought 230 supporters together for a sold-out event at The Ranch at Laguna Beach, raising $284,669 for the Boys & Girls Club of Laguna Beach on Sept. 20. The Night at The Ranch featured cocktails, a three-course meal, live music and both silent and live auctions. Club alumni Leif Hanson and Steve Blue served as event co-chairs while Laguna Beach Mayor Pro Tem Alex Rounaghi, who shared his personal experience as a club member, emphasized the pivotal role the organization played in shaping his life and putting him on a successful path. After dinner, Rolling Stones tribute band Satisfaction kept the crowd dancing the night away. And, in the auctions, several lucky bidders walked away with packages like a trip for two to Montage Big Sky in Montana and a Bianchi Winery trip for six to Paso Robles on California’s Central Coast. (bgclagunabeach.org) —S.S.
1. CureDuchenne representatives with the Ducks Wild Wing mascot 2. Chris, Troy Terry, Hawken Miller, Ryan Getzlaf, Hunter 3. Ryan Getzlaf, Paul Miller, Debra Miller, Dani Terry, Troy Terry 4. Todd and Maya Clever 5. Debra Miller, Dani Terry 6. Hayley Elwood, Chase Hartman
1. Event setting at The Ranch at Laguna Beach 2. Michelle Fortezzo, Leif Hanson, Steve Blue, Pamela Estes 3. Dinner at the event
WITH MY OWN TWO HANDS FILM GALA
Breaking its own fundraising record, the Laguna Beach nonprofit With My Own Two Hands generated more than $288,000 to help further its mission at the 11th annual Film Gala on Sept. 21 at the New Port Theater in Corona del Mar. Attended by over 140 supporters, the event showcased the organization’s efforts to bring sustainable water and agriculture solutions to people in East Africa and raised enough money to help 40,000 individuals. After a cocktail hour, guests were led to the theater for dinner and a live auction by rhythmic African drumming. WMOTH founder and CEO Lindsey Pluimer unveiled a video annoucing the dedication of a girls rescue center and water project in honor of event host Stan Verrett of ESPN SportsCenter for his decade of advocacy and support. And the 2024 Water Advocacy Award was presented to St. Mary’s School in Aliso Viejo for its six-year partnership with WMOTH, which has brought clean water to nearly 500 people in Kenya. The night also featured the premiere of WMO2H’s latest short film, “Her | Soil,” a documentary about a women’s empowerment group in Kenya that’s transforming arid land into a flourishing regenerative farm. WMO2H was founded in 2011 and, in the past 13 years, has provided clean water and sustainable food sources to 161,150 people across 54 communities. “Tonight’s film touches on the power of community—how, when we come together, incredible things can happen: Cycles of poverty and gender inequity are broken,” said WMOTH Executive Director Sara Myers. “Children go to school. Clean water flows and acres upon acres of once arid land are restored.” (withmyown2hands.org) —S.S.
CHEF MASTERS
The third annual Chef Masters gala raised funds in support of Laguna Beach nonprofit Unconditional, which finds homes for senior and special needs dogs, on Sept. 22 at the Festival of Arts grounds. At the event, 400 local dog lovers and philanthropists strolled the grounds to sample dishes and drinks from more than 60 chefs, wineries and product sponsors at the culinary extravaganza then gathered to learn more about the significant work by Unconditional, founded by local residents Amy and Julian Mack. Although there are approximately 14,000 animal rescue groups across the country, only about 40 of those are focused on older dogs and those with special needs. Unconditional is currently building an 8,000-square-foot rescue and adoption center for these at-risk canines; the center is set to open in 2025 in Laguna Canyon. The couple also recently opened Rise Pet Health, a specialty veterinary hospital in Laguna Hills; profits from Rise help to offset medical care costs for Unconditional’s rescued dogs. During the event, some big donations were announced including $100,000 from Maria Cadigan, and a complete solar system for the rescue center, donated by Matthew and Carol McCullough, who then drew the name of the opportunity drawing winner for a handcrafted diamond heart pendant valued at $25,000 and donated by Martin Katz. Guests wrapped up the evening with a dance party while enjoying music by the Flashback Heart Attack band. (Chef Masters: chefmasters.org) (Unconditional: unconditionalrescue.org) —S.S. /
1. Sara Myers 2. Richard Shen, Linda Wilson, Lindsey Pluimer 3. Kristina Chatow, Heather Nykolaychuk 4. George and Lauren Sumner
1. Constance Callan, Martin Katz, Laurie Boyer 2. Wing and Kelly Lam, their son Levi and dog Lenny 3. Diane Cuniff, Maria A. Cadigan, Amy Mack 4. Dustin Slinkard, Brady O’Connell, Nick Jones and special dog Levi
Artists & Galleries / Ceramics Clay Creations
LOCAL ARTISTS KYLE CARIS AND BILL DARNALL CRAFT EXQUISITE CERAMIC DISHES AND DECORATIVE WORKS OF ART.
By STEFANEE FREEDMAN
WHEN GRABBING THAT FIRST CUP of coffee in the morning, rarely does one think about where their favorite mug came from. But upon closer inspection at the designs and colors of those cups and other dishes, it becomes obvious that someone put a lot of time and attention into crafting these functional items.
Local ceramicists Kyle Caris and Bill Darnall, who will display their work at Winter Fantasy at the Sawdust Art Festival grounds this fall, use their throwing talents to create beautiful commissioned pieces for individuals and businesses, as well as their own imagined artworks.
FUNCTIONAL FAVORITES
As a child, Caris enjoyed drawing and was always surrounded by art growing up on Canyon Acres, next to Sawdust Art Festival, inspiring him to become part of that show some day. In fact, his first job was at Sawdust, working for artist Patti Klingenmeier.
During his sophomore year at Laguna Beach High School, a friend brought him to Darnall’s ceramics class and he tried throwing a pot. Caris was immediately hooked and signed up for the class the following year. By the time he arrived at college, his mind was set on a career in ceramics. “My first day at Orange Coast College, I went up to my professor, shook his hand, introduced myself and said, ‘I want to be a potter for the rest of my life. … How do I get on the wheel?’ ” recalls Caris, who went through the full program there, developing his portfolio and skills. After working as a bartender for four years, and not practicing ceramics during that time, he eventually applied to be a lab tech at Muddy’s Studio in Santa Ana, where
Caris and some of his ceramic pieces
he also created his own work. He applied and was accepted to Sawdust, exhibiting for his first year in 2018. Caris realized he had to go back to school to be a professional artist. He attended Kansas City Art Institute, earning a bachelor’s degree in fine arts then returned to Sawdust as a more seasoned artist.
Caris has been inspired by master potter and glazer Victor Babu and Tom Coleman. “He was one of the early ones that I really kind of gravitated towards because he’s just an excellent potter,” Caris says of Coleman. Sawdust potters including Mark Blumenfeld have also influenced his work.
Caris enjoys working with high-fire stoneware and porcelain, but currently works in mid-range firing in an electric kiln—although he prefers the effects that a gas kiln can achieve.
“In gas, you can do reduction and, in electric, it’s oxidation,” he explains. “With natural gas, you get those … copper reds that are blushy and beautiful. You cannot get that in an oxidation firing. There’s ways of kind of faking it, but it’s never quite the same.”
Most of his clay comes from Laguna
Clay Co., which originated in Laguna in the 1970s, but is now based in the city of Industry. For his pieces, Caris mostly utilizes a smooth red clay that he formulated when working at Laguna Clay Co. On average, Caris makes around 3,000 to 4,000 pieces a year—from mugs to bowls, plates, platters, pitchers and vases. He accepts a lot of commission work including Tiki mugs for Hobie Surf Shop.
When it comes to his own endeavors, Caris likes to re-create amphoras, the twohandled ancient Greek vases. His versions are inspired by sea life because, he explains, amphoras that went down in shipwrecks eventually became covered in sea life.
“I really like making functional work,” Caris says. “My goal is to make …the new favorite object in your home. Nothing makes me happier than to have people come to the booth and say, ‘We use your cup every single day, and we love it.’ ”
KYLE CARIS KYLECARISCERAMICS.COM WINTER FANTASY BOOTH NO. 412
Kyle
MOLDING MASTERPIECES
Darnall has displayed his ceramic creations at Sawdust Art Festival since 1973. And 50 years later—in winter 2023—his booth was in the exact same location.
“Same spot that I had there that the very first year I was in the show. … So that is kind of cool, you know. It’s almost like deja vu,” Darnall says. “That year in ’73, I made close to three grand—$3,000. And, back in 1973, that was quite a bit of money.”
His love for ceramics began at Chaffey College, where he earned an associate of arts degree in 1971. He then transferred to University of California, Irvine, where he graduated in 1973 with a bachelor’s degree in studio art.
“UCI was literally a brand-new school,” Darnall says. “There was just nothing over there but open fields and this beautiful campus. And they … had some of the top professors at the time in art, like John Mason, Phil Leider, John Paul Jones—all these guys that were professional artists, well known— and the class size was super small.”
Darnall’s legacy in Laguna is not only as a longtime artist at the festivals; he once taught the most popular art class at Laguna Beach High School. From 1982 to 2012,
the list was very long to get into one of his ceramics courses and, even if a student did not make the list, they had friends who did and crashing Darnall’s classes was very common over his 30-year tenure.
More than a half a dozen former students from Darnall’s classes are now artists in their own right, exhibiting at Sawdust Art Festival and Festival of Arts. He enjoys seeing Sawdust artists like Caris, Mike Brennan and Robert Jones carrying on what they started in his classes.
Darnall used to make around 150 pieces a day; now that he’s semiretired (and plans to only exhibit at Sawdust’s Winter Fantasy, skipping the summer festival), he has cut that down to around 40 to 50 a day, making more time for hobbies like playing guitar and spending time with his six grandchildren, while still staying involved with ceramics.
“I really enjoy doing functional pottery for people,” Darnall says of his mugs, dishes and the like. “I’ve always enjoyed the therapy that I get from just working on the potter’s wheel and trimming my pieces.”
He mostly works with white stoneware
and porcelain, and he prefers a two-firing process at high temperatures, referred to as “Cone 10.”
“I fire my stuff to 2,400 degrees in the glaze firing,” he says. “No potter does that anymore. Everyone’s dropped down to Cone 5, which is more like about 2,150 [degrees],” Darnall says. “At Cone 10, … [ceramics] are as strong and durable as you can ever get. And there’s certain colors you can get only by doing Cone 10 glaze and pottery. It’s magical.”
For glazing, in the past, he used a dip/ drip technique—a spontaneous method of glazing and decoration. He still likes bamboo brushwork and also uses some other intricate techniques.
“It’s almost like abstract expressionism,” he says. “… If you use your imagination, you might see a landscape or seascape due to my glazing techniques and style. And it’s actually been kind of my calling card for the last few years.” /
BILLDARNALL@GMAIL.COM; 949-677-4801
WINTER FANTASY BOOTH NO. 200
DARNALL CERAMICS
Bill Darnall with his ceramic dishware at Sawdust’s Winter Fantasy
Wine & Dine / Cocktails
Warm Up With Whiskey
ITS RICH CHARACTER AND TIMELESS APPEAL MAKE THIS VERSATILE SPIRIT THE IDEAL INGREDIENT FOR COZY COCKTAILS THIS FALL.
By ASHLEY RYAN
As autumn breezes sweep through Laguna Beach, whiskey drinks emerge as the perfect companion for cozy meals and sunset happy hours. With ample flavor profiles ranging from smooth bourbons and peppery ryes to distinct varieties like peanut butter whiskeys, the warm, rich nature of this beloved spirit serves as a brilliant contrast to the chill in the air.
Whether you’re seeking a classic cocktail or an inventive libation full of twists, these local drinks are sure to spice things up this fall.
FINNEY’S CRAFTHOUSE
Although best known for an all-encompassing selection of rotating brews, Finney’s Crafthouse also offers an impressive cocktail menu. As beautiful as it sounds, the Whiskey Smokeshow mixes Buffalo Trace bourbon and citrus amaro with fresh-squeezed lemon juice, egg white, raspberries and a rosemary syrup to add some fall flavor. “We strain it over a king cube with our signature ‘F’ logo, then we smoke the rosemary garnish with a butane torch,” says David Annaguey, beverage director for the chain. “Lastly, we put a dome over it and fill it with a citrus smoke.” The goal, he adds, was to create a fruity whiskey drink with a thrilling presentation to create an experience that diners will remember. (949-484-8140; finneyscrafthouse.com)
The Whiskey Smokeshow at Finney’s Crafthouse features a citrus smoke.
BODEGA LAGUNA COCINA & CANTINA
For a cultural twist on an old classic, try the Mexican Old Fashioned at this local cantina. “The way it is prepared and the ingredients [are] very simple,” says Roberto Rodriguez, mixologist and manager at Bodega Laguna. Although tequila is normally the Latin liquor of choice, this drink is crafted with Abasolo whisky, a spirit from Mexico made from corn. Combined with demerara brown sugar and two dashes of chocolate bitters, then garnished with an orange peel and a cherry, this playful take on one of the most beloved cocktails of all time pays homage to Mexican heritage while enchanting diners. (949-7151002; bodegalaguna.com)
THE DRAKE
Stop in for dinner and a show, as music is as much a part of the menu at this lively restaurant as its showstopping cocktails. “All of our drinks are inspired by music— either musicians or song titles,” says Janaka Bandaranaike, lead bartender at The Drake. The whiskey-based Black Magic Woman, named for a song by rock band Santana, is crafted with Elijah Craig bourbon, Frangelico (a hazelnut liqueur) and walnut
bitters, which is combined and poured over a large ice rock then garnished with a cinnamon stick. “The charred cinnamon stick adds fall-inspired flavor,” Bandaranaike adds, noting that the cocktail has been on the menu since the eatery first opened in 2019. (949-376-1000; thedrakelaguna.com)
BROADWAY BY AMAR SANTANA
This downtown eatery, helmed by chefowner Amar Santana, is known for its creative bar program—and the new fall menu lives up to the hype with a variety of cocktails that are perfect for fall. Opt for the Witching Hour, which uses rye whiskey infused with sage, rosemary and cinnamon, or the Spey’d & Spiced, which features spiced scotch and maple syrup. Another option is the Bell Witch. “I named it after an American family that was haunted by what they believed to be a witch in the … 1800s,” says bartender Jade Bustamante. This take on a Manhattan is made with an Old Forester bourbon that is infused in-house with corn, then shaken with sweet Cynar Ricetta 33 liqueur and Chinese five-spice bitters—a true delight for warming up on cold nights. (949-7158234; broadwaybyamarsantana.com)
RUMARI
The menu at Rumari is filled with cultural flavors, from Italian pastas to Greek delights. But the global touches don’t end there. This fall, cozy up with an Irish coffee, found on the restaurant’s dessert menu. “This … drink is unique for people that love coffee and whiskey, [and] great for after dinner, [to] enjoy with your favorite dessert or by itself,” says Jorge Rodriguez, mixologist and manager. Espresso is brewed with raw sugar, then added to a cup of hot water and Jameson Irish whiskey. The easy-to-craft cocktail is then finished with heavy cream that is slowly added using a bar spoon. Rodriguez suggests pairing it with the chocolate souffle for a sweet touch. (949494-0400; rumarioc.com) g
Clockwise from top left: Mexican Old Fashioned at Bodega Laguna Cocina & Cantina; Black Magic Woman at The Drake; Bell Witch at Broadway by Amar Santana; Irish Coffee at Rumari
Q+
AHit the Ground Running
AFTER ONLY A FEW MONTHS, LAGUNA BEACH RUN CLUB HAS TAKEN OFF WITH NEARLY 100 MEMBERS.
By SHARON STELLO
What could be better for a runner than lacing up their shoes and jogging around town, taking in the fresh air and beautiful scenery in Laguna? For some, the answer is running with a group, adding a sense of camaraderie and helping to motivate each other.
Enter the Laguna Beach Run Club, started in March and now boasting 75 to 100 people who join the 5K run (or walk) every Sunday morning, staying on pavement but hugging the coast through Heisler Park. The group meets at 9 a.m. in the Catch Surf parking lot in north Laguna. On the last Sunday of each month, the club instead does a trail run starting at 8 a.m. at Alta Laguna Park and heading up to Top of the World and the trails that crisscross the hills from there.
The club was co-founded by Laguna residents Richard Zack, general manager of the Catch Surf store in Laguna, and Ethan Staus, a musician and KXFM radio host.
“The community has embraced us with open arms, and we are trying to do our part as well,” says Zack, mentioning a beach cleanup the group did at Crescent Bay. “… It’s a great way to work in our special beach community, but we understand if the growth continues, we will have to potentially add a sign-up and cap the … [number] of
runners to ensure safety and peacefulness for our neighbors. We never expected this group to grow so quickly. It started off with about 10 people, but our consistency paid off.”
Members are fairly evenly split between men and women and represent a wide age range.
“We have members in their 60s and we also have people that bring their young children and teens,” Zack says. “We even have an alternative route for those who want to push a baby stroller. … We have all different paces and you can always find someone with a similar pace or cut a corner to shorten the run as well. Our group also takes a midway stop at Hotel Laguna waiting for the rest of our runners to catch up and it’s a nice socializing before we take off for the second half of the run.”
LAGUNA BEACH MAGAZINE: How did you get into running?
RICHARD ZACK: My background with running started with joining a CrossFit gym, where I pushed myself with cardio like never before. My gym coach one day invited me to run a charity 5K event and I said, “Why not? Let’s try it out.” … Running with purpose made me feel good and, from then on, I was hooked.
LBM: Why did you want to start a running club?
RZ: I wanted to start a running club because I was training this year for a full marathon in Hawaii at the end of the year in December. Also, we thought it would be a great way to keep people fit as well as introduce Catch Surf to a new audience that may never have heard of our brand. Community is special and the conversations and memories you create with others last a lifetime.
LBM: Can anyone join or do they need running experience?
RZ: Yes, anyone can join our Run Club. You do not need any running
Running with Laguna’s scenic setting as the backdrop
The Laguna Beach Run Club has grown quickly since starting in March.
experience, but you do need a pair of running shoes to avoid injury. We have all levels of runners and you can choose your pace and find someone [with] a similar speed to enjoy the run with. Walking is also totally acceptable.
LBM: What’s the group’s mission?
RZ: Our mission is to build a stronger, healthier community while giving people a sense of belonging. The unique energy of community is powerful and we want to embrace it here in Laguna Beach. A lot of people contribute to this club to make it what it is today. It’s a great platform for videographers and photographers to showcase their work and, at the end of the day, we truly feel like the health benefits of running weekly will last a lifetime.
LBM: What can first-timers expect?
RZ: Our first-timers can expect some socializing at the beginning 5-10 minutes of the meetup. We do a light stretch hosted by Steven and Ethan
Staus. Steven is a part-time spin coach at Life Time Fitness and brings the energy and enthusiasm for our morning stretch. Ethan and myself like to gather the group together briefly [to] introduce yourself to your neighbor and, if we have any vendor collaborations, let them showcase their brands as well. We end our run back at Catch Surf above Crescent Bay beach and it’s nice to take a dip after and continue the socializing with some friends and coffee down at the beach. MoonGoat across the street has been a hit for us, but Jedidiah Coffee has also been a great supporter as well.
LBM: What do you like about running?
RZ: Honestly, running takes a lot of discipline mentally and physically. I don’t always love to do it, but when you finish, that feeling and accomplishment is like no other. Running with community makes it more tolerable and the encouragement you get from others really sets a positive tone and motivates you to finish. g
CUSTOM CREATIONS
Stand out in the crowd with these bespoke accessories by ateliers in town.
By SHARON STELLO
Marian Barker (bottom right) works on a handbag for her Marian Paquette label. In addition to custom bags, her collection includes the Jackie bag (right); the Alexandra bag (bottom left); and the Susan bag (opposite page).
Imagine the disappointment of getting all dolled up for an event, then showing up only to realize that three other people are wearing the exact same dress. No one wants to be sporting the same off-the-rack style as everyone else. There’s an innate desire to stand out in a crowd and show off your individuality. And while it’s possible to have custom clothing tailor-made, it’s even easier to purchase bespoke accessories that can go with multiple outfits to assemble a signature look. From hats to bags, jewelry and even perfume, several shops in town offer their services when it comes to creating one-of-a-kind pieces that reflect your personality—whether that’s classic and sophisticated, bold and dramatic or fun and carefree. So when you’re planning your next ensemble, consider adding an accessory that no one else in the room will have.
IN THE BAG
LONGTIME INTERIOR DESIGNER MARIAN
Barker began making handbags about 12 years ago after learning that textile samples were simply thrown out at the end of each season, adding to the country’s growing landfills. She started collecting these swatches from her sales reps and, noticing they were the right size to make a small purse, taught herself to sew bags. “I didn’t even have a pattern,” says Barker, who experimented with modifying metal purse frames, sewing the fabric covering and adding thin magnets for the closure.
She started in her garage, but demand grew quickly for her bags bearing the label of Marian Paquette (her French Canadian maiden name). She eventually had to buy textiles to keep up with orders—the bags are sold in nearly 300 boutiques—but makes sure to cut the fabric just right to minimize waste. After sewing the bags for six
years in a Laguna Canyon space, she moved the production to a Los Angeles manufacturer and now has a storefront in north Laguna after a few other locations around town.
From clutches to handbags, the eye-catching fabrics hail from France, Italy, Morocco and other destinations around the globe. And she creates custom bags for clients who often bring in their own fabric, from heirloom dresses to vintage coats. Others want bags to match wedding gowns.
“We had one customer reach out: Their mother was 105 and they had a dress, sent it to us from New York City, and I took the dress apart and ended up making like eight bags for [their family members for] Christmas. It was a great little story,” Barker says. “I even had a lady bring in her mink and we took the mink apart and made some bags for another holiday season.”
Barker tells clients that if they’re going on a
trip and find some unique fabric, she only needs a 14-inch square piece to make a bag; she can even use a smaller swatch mounted on another type of fabric. Heirloom brooches can be incorporated, too. And, for special occasions like a wedding or anniversary, initials and the date can be embroidered inside.
Even in Barker’s noncustom handbag collections, including beautiful velvet bags for fall, some feature vintage chains or wooden beads that add a limited edition element. “Our mohair Susan bag comes in 11 colors, but that mesh chain is from the ’60s and I bought my last supply last year,” Barker says. “We’re completely sold out and I’ll never be able to do that bag again.”
To keep these special bags in good condition for years to come, the key is proper storage. “Keep them stuffed, keep them in the dust bag and, if you do that, you’ll keep it forever. It will be your little heirloom that you have,” she says.
She also advises that these bags are not intended to be a daily carryall. “When you find the bag that you like, pick out the bag first and then pick out what you’re going to wear around it,” she says. “Treat it like a necklace. … Don’t treat it like a bag for every day. It’s never going to work. It’s truly an accessory.”
“WHEN YOU FIND THE BAG THAT YOU LIKE, PICK OUT THE BAG FIRST AND THEN PICK OUT WHAT YOU’RE GOING TO WEAR AROUND IT. TREAT IT LIKE A NECKLACE. … IT’S TRULY AN ACCESSORY.”
—MARIAN BARKER
HATS OFF TO YOU
ANOTHER
WAY TO TOP OFF AN OUTFIT
is with a custom hat. Longtime milliner Paula Del Percio makes bespoke headpieces at The Hat Box in town. She started in 1992 in New York before moving 10 years later to Laguna. Originally inspired by her parents, who had their own millinery factory, Del Percio was trained at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City and has won many awards. She handcrafts hats for celebrities and locals alike, using some of her father’s hat blocks as well as an extensive collection of her mother’s silk and taffeta ribbons for trimming. She fashions everything from straw sun hats worthy of wearing to the Kentucky
Derby to Panama-style headwear and felt fedoras
Teressa Foglia is a bit newer to the hat-making scene, but her shops have quickly gained a following, with locations in Laguna Beach, Malibu and Houston. Foglia previously ran a social media company while living in Laguna and then took a hat-making class for fun while spending a year in Europe after a breakup. “I always loved hats,” Foglia says. “… I started wearing them from a super young age.”
Foglia says hats add a fun element to any outfit. “For me, now, it’s just a part of my uniform,” she says. “I put a hat on probably more than I put shoes on, honestly. I think, from a
functional standpoint, they’re great, so I don’t have to worry about my hair so often. [And] they’re great sun protectors.”
She goes through phases, but is currently obsessed with a white cowboy hat. “That’s probably the biggest one in my rotation,” Foglia says. “… I just love how versatile it is. I feel like I could put it with seriously any outfit. Even if I’m wearing an all-black ensemble on a Friday night, I still think it looks really polished.”
Foglia didn’t mean for her hat hobby to turn into a company, but had the opportunity to open a studio in 2017, then met her husband, Ty Hays, who was also making hats. They’ve been collaborating
for about six years, opening the Laguna shop in 2021. A big part of the business is offering custom designs, either one-of-a-kind pieces made from scratch or embellishing premade hats with charms, embroidery and other accents.
“I think people like having things that nobody else has,” Foglia says. “I think people come to us personally for their custom hats because of our way to tell a story through an accessory.”
Foglia says her brand’s bone and camel-colored hats tend to be the favorites. “We [also] have this beige green that’s called Willow that’s very versatile—we think it’s very much a neutral because
or embroidery such as your initials.
“We’ve really become quite close with our clients because their hats are their story,” Foglia says. “We kind of talk a bit about what kind of story they want to have. … We really make it a personal experience and just kind of have a conversation,” Foglia says. “It’s like when you’re going to get your hair done. … It’s pretty personal. It’s fun.”
it’s so soft and it makes everybody look great,” she says. “You could have brown eyes, blue eyes, green eyes. It looks great on everyone.
“And also I think the popularity depends on the season, so right now we’re going into felt season and Western’s having a moment, … so we’re seeing a lot of cowboy hats.”
For custom hats, Foglia says first a team member takes your measurements and asks your preference for crown height and brim width. Then you pick the color and type of band, from cotton or silk grosgrain to suede or leather. Next is deciding whether to add charms
Sustainability is also important to Foglia, so the business upcycles most of its trims. “Our grosgrains are almost all vintage grosgrains that we source from all over Europe,” Foglia says, adding that charms and other accoutrements come from Round Top, Texas; Paris; and Ibiza, among other destinations. “… Newer things that we make, we work with artisans all over Central and South America. Our straws are all hand woven by a fifth generation family in Ecuador.”
An eco-friendly approach extends to natural dyes and even packaging, like creating a hat box that customers will want to keep, for storing photos and mementos if not your hat.
Left: Teressa Foglia, her husband, Ty Hays, and their baby, Eames Hays; opposite page: their hat shop in Laguna; below: some of their hat designs including Wooster (top) and Juventus (bottom)
ADDING LAYERS
NO MATTER WHAT YOU’RE WEARING, it can always be embellished with the addition of jewelry. Of course, truly bespoke pieces can be commissioned by any number of jewelers in town—or customize options from Laguna brand gorjana to reflect your individuality.
“No matter the style, our jewelry is meant to mix, match, layer and have a whole lot of fun with,” says gorjana co-founder Gorjana Reidel. “From our birthstone collection to our alphabet and zodiac styles, we love to help our shoppers create layers that are personal to them and match their aesthetic.”
SIGNATURE SCENTS
PERHAPS ONE OF THE BEST WAYS TO make an impression and be remembered is through a personal perfume. It’s been shown that scent is strongly intertwined with memories. A waft of Chanel No. 5 might remind you of your mother or someone walking by wearing a certain cologne might bring back thoughts of that guy you met on a trip to Italy. So why not create a fragrance that’s unique to you?
At The Fragrance Boutique in Laguna, you can do just that. Make an appointment for a guided session to blend a perfume, cologne or room fragrance that captures the essence of your personality. An expert perfumer will offer a one-on-one consultation, exploring a range of notes from citrus to lavender, bergamot and sandalwood, meticulously blending until your perfect scent has been crafted.
Custom engraving is offered for bottles, which come in different sizes with the option for a
Consider the Birthstone Coin Necklace in 18-karat gold set with your birthstone in the center of the disc, whether that’s pearl for June, citrine for November or garnet for January. Celebrate your horoscope sign with the 14-karat gold Diamond Zodiac Coin Charm, an elevated way to connect with the universe on a personal level. Add a letter representing your own name or that of a loved one with the 14-karat gold Diamond Vintage Alphabet Charm, which can be added to your favorite chain for a meaningful memento. The Wilder Mini Alphabet Bracelet also allows an initial to be selected to make this
layer stand out from your everyday stack. Or create a look that’s completely your own with a variety of Parker Charms, from dainty designs to oversized statement pieces for your chain necklace or bracelet. Choose from a cute Popsicle to a lightning bolt, a coin featuring a red rose or a green-eyed snake, a heart with polka dots, a cowboy boot, evil eye, flower and more. Proudly show off your hometown with the Laguna Beach City Coin Parker Charm, only available in the Laguna Beach store. This coin features a palm-dotted beach scene that pays tribute to gorjana’s home base.
roll-on or spray top. Premade fragrances are also available from house blends like Cashmere Cardigan or Beach Blossom to others inspired by brand name perfumes. But nothing could be better than a custom scent.
Although The Fragrance Boutique has been in Laguna for over 20 years, retired U.S. history and economics teacher James Conti bought the business in 2019 and has placed a stronger emphasis on the custom side as demand has grown.
“People … want to be unique. And fragrance or cologne or perfume very much speaks to you as an individual,” Conti says. “You always remember that one person [that,] when she walks by, she smells great. There are certain people … that [the] combination of their presence and how they smell leaves a lasting impression. And, I think, by allowing people to create something that they feel represents them themselves, it’s powerful and people enjoy it.”
Gorjana jewelry can be personalized with birthstones, initials and more. From left: the Diamond Vintage Alphabet Charm; the Laguna Beach City Coin Parker Charm; Wilder Alphabet Bracelets
The small shop is hidden in the back of Panno Plaza on South Coast Highway, but stepping inside feels like stepping back in time as rows of apothecary bottles fill tall wooden cabinets. The “recipe” for each fragrance is kept on file in case you run out and want to reorder your beloved scent or tweak it a bit. Some of these recipes predate the computer system and are kept on cards in a wooden filing drawer, adding to the Old World ambience.
A “travel kit” of popular scents allows the custom service to be taken on the road for birthdays, weddings, corporate events and, recently, a booth at the Taste of Laguna. Conti was looking for a business that he could hire a staff to run rather than needing to be there full time. And the history of fragrances—some valued and traded for thousands of years, like frankincense, myrrh, amber and sandalwood—appealed to him. After buying the business, he took a deep dive into researching the science behind fragrance and their various properties, then began experimenting with making blends.
The shop has seven kinds of sandalwood including a Hawaiian version, which goes well with plumeria and can be added to other white flowers for a more floral scent or coconut for something more beachy. Scents are very personal, but there are a few that prove popular like bergamot, sandalwood, vanilla and musk, which go
into a lot of fragrances. Lychee has also been a hit lately as well as pink pepper, juniper, basil and spruce. Season also plays a part: In fall and winter, people tend to want a warm, cozy scent.
Approximately 300 different scent notes— organic whenever possible—are available at the shop. Building a fragrance starts with base notes, which have dense molecules and take longer to warm up; they don’t have as much of a reach, but last a long time, Conti explains. Top notes—citrus, flowers and anything sweet like fruit—are a powerful scent but typically don’t last long. Heart notes such as rose or vanilla fall in between base and top notes as far as strength and longevity.
“It’s kind of a symphony if you do it right,” Conti says. “When you first put the fragrance on, you’ll get the top notes and some of the heart notes will really be present. But as they start to fade, the base notes come in. … So when you wear it over time, it changes a little bit.”
Two things can affect how a perfume smells on an individual. One is body temperature and the other is the amount of water in our cells, Conti explains. “So we could both put on the same one and the way people perceive it on us is very different,” he says. “And so people will say, ‘This fragrance smells great on my friend, but not on me.’ It’s true.”
And, so, fragrance is a highly personal experience. A custom session starts by asking about your favorite scents, whether you see anything on the shelves that interests you, and if there’s anything in particular that you want to investigate that day.
“Some people will start rattling off kind of warm, earthy, grassy kinds of things and other people will start with florals,” Conti says. “… You can kind of tell a little bit about a person from what they pick. You kind of know who they are. And so there is a story behind it.”
After talking, different fragrance notes are brought out for the customer to smell. “Based off your responses, we start to get an idea of your palate—what you like. And then we start to craft it based on you,” Conti says, noting that the ratios are adjusted until it’s just right and then you name the blend. “I tell people this all the time and I mean it,” Conti says. “There’s only one rule here— you can’t leave until you’re stoked.” /
Clockwise from top left: James Conti, owner of The Fragrance Boutique, blends a perfume. The shop offers premade fragrances and a custom service, which allow the client to name their creation. Roller and spray tops are available.
Home Is Where the Decor Is Home & Design
Local stores offer a diverse lineup of products to decorate an abode.
By TANYA A. YACINA
An array of Laguna Beach home decor stores cater to a wide range of tastes and styles. Throughout town, shoppers can explore home furnishing boutiques and design showrooms that showcase curated selections of furniture, textiles and accessories reflecting the town’s eclectic coastal charm.
Nuance Home & Lifestyle owner Lisa McDennon believes her store stands out from other retailers through its commitment to offering a carefully curated selection of unique, handcrafted items, which she takes pride in personally sourcing from artisans
near and far to ensure each piece tells a story and carries the distinct mark of its creator. Nuance has also expanded its retail selection to an online platform.
“This approach allows our team to provide our customers with something truly special—items that go beyond mere functionality to become conversation pieces and cherished additions to their homes,” McDennon says. “It not only differentiates us in the market, but also aligns with the desires of discerning customers who seek to express their individual style.”
Bluebird Mercantile owner Amii Schenk says she keeps her shop’s selection fresh to differentiate the selection from other stores in town. She also says a new website is in the works to further appeal to the shoppers that want to order online.
“We like to travel a lot, so, on our travels around the world, we pick up unique goods that aren’t offered anywhere around here or— [when it comes to some items]—even in the U.S.,” Schenk says. “Who knows where the next trip will bring us and what will be on the shelves of the store next.”
Abode by Garage Collective
Opened in 2016, the Garage Collective began as a shared retail space for artists and makers. Owner Kristin Miracle-Lewis transitioned from hosting pop-up shops inside her garage to a brick-and-mortar location. In March 2024, the space was relaunched as Abode by Garage Collective in partnership with local designer Jaime Saunders, alongside specialty grocery store The Salt Horse, and promises a unique shopping experience. (949-715-0868; shopgaragecollectivelaguna.com)
Schenk says Bluebird Mercantile offers a unique selection of goods from across the country and around the globe, many of which are made by artisans, are vintage or are one of a kind or limited edition items.
“We really pride ourselves on customer service,” Shenk adds. ”We want to engage with you and really help you find the best things for you in our store. And, if we make friends along the way, it’s been a great day.”
Another retailer, Vertigo Home closed its brick-and-mortar location last year and,
Arrow&Branch
now, the local owners mostly sell their items through the website. However, the business continues to maintain a small display of its bestselling items within Bluebird Mercantile, which took over Vertigo’s former space. Vertigo co-owner Martin Ulrich says the shop-in-shop concept at Bluebird Mercantile gives customers the opportunity to see and touch items in person.
“Online, we have transitioned to a more focused selection of bestsellers and wallpaper, which has enhanced the shopping experience by providing more personalized service and unique offerings,” he says. “Focusing on small European brands has allowed us to create a unique shopping experience for our customers. … Over the 15 years that we operated our store in Laguna Beach, we had the pleasure of meeting many amazing people.”
McDennon is also focused on the people when it comes to her shop.
“At the heart of our business is a commitment to providing an exceptional, personalized experience for every customer who
Inspired by California’s casually sophisticated lifestyle, Arrow&Branch home store was established in 2021 by owner Seanne Contursi. She and her husband, Steve, are proprietors of Arrow&Branch Estate Vineyard and Arrow&Branch Winery in Napa, where they live when they are not at their Laguna Beach home. The local boutique is a result of Contursi’s passion for home design and interiors, and offers a selection of decor accents, fine jewelry and gifts that mix vintage items with modernday merchandise and design. (949-4644353; arrowandbranchhome.com)
walks through our doors,” McDennon says. “We see ourselves as part of the fabric of the Laguna Beach community, and we strive to contribute positively to its unique character. We’re not just selling products; we’re sharing experiences, fostering creativity and building lasting relationships with our neighbors and visitors alike.”
With its artistic vibe and coastal influence, Laguna is an ideal destination for anyone looking to discover something special for their home.
Bluebird Mercantile
Bluebird Mercantile opened shop in 2023 in the former location of Vertigo Home. A marketplace of handmade and hard-to-find items, the cooperative offers artisans and creators the opportunity to rent space and personalize their “shop-in-shop” to display and sell their creations. Whether looking for ceramics, imported furniture, vintage apparel, home goods, handcrafted accessories, natural skincare products, flowers, plants or jewelry, the collective has something for everyone—including some items from Vertigo Home. (949-5494363; instagram.com/bluebirdmercantilelb)
Cock & Tail Home
Cottage Furnishings
Family owned and operated, Cottage Furnishings opened its doors in 1997 to bring the California coastal feel to people’s homes, regardless of where they are living. Initially offering traditional cottage furniture, the retailer now features diverse furniture, lighting, accessories, bedding and gifts—including some one-of-a-kind items—to complement any design vision. The business also offers interior design services to assist in turning houses into homes. (949-497-3121; shopcottagefurnishings.com)
With focus placed upon quality and style, Cock & Tail owner Charles Shrout opened this shop in 2021 to highlight distinctive furnishings, accessories, linens, hard-to-find vintage barware and more. Indeed, the unique retailer continues to offer a hand-picked selection of eclectic home decor and furniture. Twice a year, Shrout travels to antique and vintage stores in the Midwest to search for rare finds to bring to the California coast. (949-715-0999; instagram.com/ cocktailhome_laguna)
Good Together House
Opened in 2021 by Dana Marron and Kristin Winter, Good Together House offers something for every room in a home. Here, you can find the extraordinary and the unexpected, from upscale tableware and kitchen goods to garden pots and tools, clothing, vintage jewelry and a selection of art. The retailer also offers an in-house embroiderer and a seamstress. Good Together House focuses on the customer experience to ensure the shop is a worthwhile place for customers to spend time. (949-549-4264; goodtogetherhouse.com)
Tuvalu Home
Nuance Home & Lifestyle
Nuance Home & Lifestyle brings a modern sensibility to classic Southern California coastal aesthetics with designs rooted in refined natural materials and organic forms, staying away from the typical seashells and nautical anchors. Opened in 2014, Nuance carefully selects home furniture and decor, thoughtful gifts, and premium skincare products. The boutique also showcases the Lisa McDennon Collection for Hinkley lighting, which debuted in 2017, and offers a full-service interior design consultancy for residential and commercial projects. (949-494-8833; nuance-home.com)
Founded by local Laurie Alter more than two decades ago, Tuvalu Home features a curated selection of furniture, accessories and art with a coastal vibe, and is remerchandised weekly to showcase unique finds from across the country. In 2012, Alter expanded with a Design Studio space to offer full-service interior design for projects ranging from The Ranch at Laguna Beach to estate homes in Toronto; Coeur D’Alene, Idaho; and Italy. (949-497-3202; instagram.com/ tuvaluhome)
Vertigo Home
Founders Chris Oswalt and Martin Ulrich realized their combined love for travel, art and design, and opened the Vertigo Home storefront in 2009 on South Coast Highway. While at that location, it became the go-to destination for unique gifts, luxurious upholstery and high-design furniture, lighting and accessories. In 2023, the pair decided to move the business fully online, where they continue to offer high-end Nordic design, furniture, decor and more to Laguna Beach and beyond. Some Vertigo items can still be found at Bluebird Mercantile, which took over their brick-and-mortar space. (949-738-0374; vertigohome.us)
Business & Pleasure Co.
Blending timeless elegance with contemporary functionality, Business & Pleasure Co. has made a name for itself in the global outdoor lifestyle market. Launched in 2016 by Australian friends Ollie Edwards and Lachlan Leckie, the company initially focused on crafting bespoke, high-end umbrellas with a nostalgic touch. The brand has expanded to include beach-inspired furniture, linens and accessories, with its flagship store, Laguna Beach House. (949324-2939; businessandpleasureco.com)
Modern Studio
This family-owned business has offered furniture and decor for both residential and commercial settings for more than 20 years from its flagship store in downtown Laguna Beach. With over 100 wellknown modern furniture brands boasting clean Italian lines as well as modern and contemporary designs, these pieces are highly customizable, from sofas and chairs to coffee and dining tables, entertainment centers, beds, desks, lamps, mirrors, rugs, accessories and even outdoor furnishings. (949-376-0103; modernfurnishings.com)
Style Your Space
Enjoy your favorite hot beverage in the BLUE LINE MUG and add a touch of sophistication to your daily routine. Each features exquisite craftsmanship, showcasing a unique blue stripe design, $48, at Abode by Garage Collective. (949715-0868; shopgarage collectivelaguna.com)
Elevate cocktail hour with VINTAGE STEMWARE, featuring an etched silver pine pattern. The set of four 1960s glasses by Tiffin Glass Co. are great for martinis, $160, at Arrow&Branch. (949-464-4353; arrowandbranchhome.com)
A concentrated dose of cheerful enjoyment, the
RUE YVES SAINT LAURENT
CANDLE, available in two sizes (with a third on order), evokes a soothing experience thanks to a sparkling tangerine scent counterbalanced by sweet vanilla, from $68, at Bluebird Mercantile. (949549-4363; instagram.com/ bluebirdmercantilelb)
The AL FRESCO COLLECTION is the essential choice for those seeking a sophisticated and enduring outdoor experience. Notable for its exceptional durability, refined design and space-saving ability, the collection includes loungers, chairs, tables, bar carts, cushions, umbrellas and more in various solid and striped selections, from $59,
at Business & Pleasure Co. (949-324-2939; businessand pleasureco.com)
Quirky 20-inch square DOG BREED PILLOWS —brought to Laguna from Portobello Road Market in London—showcase a selection of dog breeds, each
one capturing the unique personality of our furry friends and with a down-filled insert, $150, at Cock & Tail Home. (949-715-0999; instagram. com/cocktailhome_laguna)
Blending natural textures and materials, the SAILORS KNOT MIRROR reflects its coastal
Blue Line Mug
Vintage Stemware
The Al Fresco Collection Dog Breed Pillows
inspiration. A sturdy iron frame is wrapped in crisp white rope, resulting in a relaxed and adaptable design ready to adorn any wall, $495, at Cottage Furnishings. (949-497-3121; shopcottagefurnishings.com)
Bzippy ARCHITECTURAL CERAMIC VASES AND VESSELS are the highly sought work of Bari Ziperstein, who creates pieces based upon the history of California ceramics. This is the
only retailer in Orange County that carries these masterpieces, from $400, at Good Together House. (949-549-4264; goodtogetherhouse.com)
As unusual as the Vitra WIGGLE SIDE CHAIR looks, it sets itself apart with layers of corrugated cardboard faced in natural hardboard. Part of Frank Gehry’s 1972 “Easy Edges” series, the chair’s stacked configuration ensures strength and stability,
$1,600, available online from Laguna Beach-based Vertigo Home. (949-738-0374; vertigohome.us)
Exuding elegance and simplicity, the RECYCLED OAK WOOD CABINET is a standout piece. Crafted from solid oak, this 34- by 76-inch cabinet, which is 16 inches deep, embodies the beauty of imperfection and natural materials, and features three interior shelves, $3,200, at
Tuvalu Home. (949-497-3202; instagram.com/tuvaluhome)
Bringing a dreamy design to any tabletop, the SWIRLED RESIN BOWLS are part of a series of two-tone resin serving bowls. Featuring a marbleized finish, the bowls are available in a variety of sizes and sold in white or brown, from $36, at Nuance Home & Lifestyle. (949-4948833; nuance-home.com) g
Recycled Oak Wood Cabinet
Rue Yves Saint Laurent Candles
Swirled Resin Bowl
Vitra Wiggle Side Chair
Sailors Knot Mirror
Bzippy Architectural Ceramic Vases and Vessels
Home & Design
Let There Be Light
Longtime Laguna Beach friends shine bright with their successful lighting design business.
By TANYA A. YACINA
Fueled by passion for design, construction and creativity, lighting design company
Cerno began its journey in 2009. Founded by childhood friends Bret Englander, Daniel Wacholder and Nick Sheridan, the company started designing and building lighting concepts in Laguna Beach before moving to Irvine and now Aliso Viejo, where it boasts a 20,000-square-foot production facility and showroom for light fixtures that balance form and function.
Cerno co-founders (from left) Daniel Wacholder, Nick Sheridan and Bret Englander
LIGHTING UP THE ROOM
Englander, Cerno’s director of business development, explains that the trio met as kids growing up in Laguna Beach, where they all still live today with their wives and children. Inspired by the exposure their parents and grandparents gave to building and design, as well as their shared passion for creating things and the projects they shared at a young age, the group looks to their core relationship to propel their lighting venture forward.
“All of these projects and adventures laid the path that ultimately led us to start Cerno,” Englander says. “The inspiration to start Cerno came several years after college. We all had worked for other companies in different industries and explored and discussed starting different businesses. We were drawn to lighting for a few reasons. One, the industry was being disrupted by LEDs back in 2009, and we had a feeling it would take some time for the established brands to figure out how to
embrace this new technology. For the first several years, there was not a lot of competition in the high-end modern lighting space we were in. We also loved that lighting has the power to change any environment—it is this incredible combination of art, technology and utility.”
Sheridan, director of design, says everything the group does as a business is a collaboration. He notes that his favorite part about working with childhood friends is that the trust and intimate knowledge they have about each other is deep and meaningful.
“We definitely know what the other is thinking often, which can help us communicate quickly while working on ideas or issues,” Sheridan says. “I also love how different the three of us are—Dan and Bret are both really smart guys whose abilities, of course, overlap in some regards, but they are really different in how they think and approach problems; that diversity in thought can be really powerful.”
Wacholder, director of engineering and operations, says other people can feel the trust they have in each other, which leads to more genuine and meaningful relationships with their team.
A BRIGHT FUTURE
Englander describes Cerno’s business as designing high-end, high-quality lighting, all made under one roof in Orange County. In 2013, the business grew out of its original home in a Laguna Canyon garage and the group moved out of town to continue expansion.
“We have three brands. Cerno is our line of modern lighting that uses a lot of natural materials like wood, stone, leather and metal. Revelite is exclusively performancefocused art lighting, made to illuminate art properly. Siemon & Salazar is our line of handblown glass lighting and vessels, founded by Caleb Siemon and Carmen Salazar,” Englander says. “We teamed up and acquired Siemon & Salazar in 2022,
Cerno’s lighting fixture designs strike a balance between form and function.
which has been an inspiring new chapter for all of us. Caleb, Carmen and the glassblowing team are so skilled and talented, and creatively they are still at the helm for all new Siemon & Salazar designs.”
Englander says Cerno sets itself apart in the industry by being a genuinely vertical manufacturer with a team of skilled artisans and craftspeople who make all Cerno, Revelite and Siemon & Salazar products. The Cerno team also really cares about how the lights they make perform—they’re not just making pretty things; they also care about how well they work.
Wacholder sees the brand continuing to focus on its current business model while the team continuously improves its creative, technical and business skills, and says “I’m a big believer in staying focused on what you
are good at and resisting human nature’s need to overcomplicate things and constantly want to make major changes.”
Englander says he and other company leaders felt it was their responsibility to also operate as a sustainable business. Cerno responsibly sources raw materials and uses them smartly to minimize waste.
“In a world that incentivizes quantity over quality, we felt a duty to work another way: Creating thoughtfully designed light fixtures built to pass the test of time,” Englander explains. “When we end up with extra materials, we share extra material with local artisans and craftspeople, supporting their creative practices.”
Sheridan notes that the company has become a family, and says the team they built and the culture they work to foster is
their greatest accomplishment.
“I see us continuing to grow the company… I see us doubling down on that investment in growing our team and our capabilities,” he says. “We started the company because we love to build things and want to include other people who share that passion. Fifteen years in and I think we are really proud of what we have built and we are really excited for what is next.”
“Today, our core values and what drove us to start the company remain very much intact. We love to design and build things and love to share that with a team of people who make us proud to come to work every day,” Englander says. “We continue to evolve and try to improve in all aspects of our business daily, which is also part of the culture at Cerno.” g
The company’s designs feature a high level of craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Green by Design Home & Design
Local experts offer tips for an eco-friendly approach to construction that also fosters health and happiness in your home environment.
By LAGUNA BEACH MAGAZINE STAFF
Environmentally friendly home
building materials have been trending for quite some time, from reclaimed wood to fast-growing bamboo, which quickly replenishes supplies, to natural stone and fabrics, solar panels, energy-sipping LED lighting and lowVOC paints that emit fewer chemicals.
However, Laguna Beach interior designer Deana Duffek explains that “green” construction goes beyond being sustainable for the Earth to actually making a home healthier for those who live there.
“Many people don’t realize how many chemicals they put in their homes that are constantly off-gassing,” she says, pointing to volatile organic compounds in materials
like insulation, flooring, paint, furniture and carpet. “Clean products are good for personal health—sustainability is a natural byproduct of that.”
IN PURSUIT OF A HEALTHY HOME
Duffek, owner and principal designer of Duffek Design & Development and Pure Design House showroom, knows firsthand about the health effects that a home can have on a person. When Duffek developed debilitating symptoms from mold toxicity nearly five years ago, the interior designer’s focus— both personally and professionally—shifted. Two strains of black mold found in the HVAC system of her Victoria Beach rental property had proliferated and permeated the
air, causing crippling fatigue, headaches and rashes, among myriad other health issues. After a diagnosis confirmed the source of her illness, Duffek promptly relocated. To get well, she knew she needed to eliminate many other environmental toxins and chemicals known to trigger immune responses.
Having worked in the building industry for more than 25 years, Duffek understood the challenge of sourcing clean construction materials, even in California, which now has stricter regulations than most states. “I decided the only way to have a clean home was to build one myself,” she asserts. Throughout that process, she asked, “If it’s this hard for me—a design professional—to find nontoxic materials, how about the
Natural materials and plenty of windows to let in sunlight are just part of eco-friendly and healthy home designs like this one by Deana Duffek.
average person?” And so she resolved to make them more accessible to everyone.
The solution was Pure Design House, a full-service firm and showroom in Laguna Beach offering a holistic approach to architecture, interiors and products. “We shape our clients’ environments using only the purest materials possible … without sacrificing aesthetics,” she says. “Homes and commercial spaces are more than just a place to reside or work— they’re an honest expression of those who inhabit them and [should] inspire happiness, health and well-being.”
Duffek chooses suppliers and manufacturers that share her “green” ethos, including Cerno, a sustainability-focused
lighting company founded by three Laguna natives. “Growing up in town, we spent a lot of time outside. We were inspired by and respected nature, so we feel obligated to use all of our raw materials responsibly,” notes Cerno co-founder Bret Englander. Duffek is using a Cerno pendant light in a current project, plans to use more of the local brand’s pieces and hopes to feature them in the showroom.
PRESERVING PURITY
Duffek is currently remodeling her own home, a 1938 beach bungalow in south Laguna, and has been careful to not sacrifice the character of the original structure. “[Many] folks suggested I tear it down and
start fresh, but I wanted to do it this way because I care about the community and the integrity of the neighborhood … and [maintaining] the rich history of Laguna,” she says.
Still, her team started from the ground up. Enlisting Zack Pelzel, founder and president of The Purified Home, also based in Laguna, to evaluate her home’s air and water quality, they installed purifiers and a proper water-filtration system. (If you live in a rental, Duffek suggests purchasing a small system from a local hardware store.) Steel conduit for protective shielding was installed to reduce electromagnetic radiation, or EMFs—which may increase the risk of cancer (although
Some of Duffek’s designs (clockwise from top left): a sustainable ADU (shown as a rendering); an eco-friendly kitchen; an OC school’s wellness space; a living room with natural materials. From replacing PVC pipes to evaluating air and water quality, Duffek looks at every aspect of a home.
study results have been mixed, according to the National Cancer Institute) and cause anxiety, depression and headaches, among other symptoms. The team also replaced polyvinyl chloride (PVC), pipes, known to leach chemicals, with copper, and swapped existing materials with cleaner options.
Tearing out old insulation, they replaced it with a combination of wool and upcycled denim. Opting for natural clay plaster instead of drywall—“In my experience with Clayworks, mold will not grow where there is clay,” Duffek points out—they are applying mineral-based and clay paints, free of petroleum-based chemicals found in some traditional brands.
On the exterior, they’re installing siding and fencing made from repurposed rice hulls (that hard, protective covering on rice grains) from Modern Mill, which doesn’t contain harmful phthalates, phenol, formaldehyde or adhesives common in vinyl.
Julie Laughton prioritizes sustainability and wellness with natural materials—from insulation to materials used in the interior decorating.
• ROOFING REPLACEMENTS/REPAIRS
• BALCONY DECK STRUCTURAL RECONSTRUCTION
• ROOFING WATERPROOFING
• EXTENSIVE DRY ROT/TERMITE REPAIRS
• SHEET METAL FOR HARSH COASTAL ENVIRONMENTS
• IN DEPTH SPECIFICATION/STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING
• INTERIOR DAMAGE REPAIRS
• BALCONY RAIL SYSTEM DESIGNS/GLASS/CABLE
• PROFESSIONAL PAINTING SERVICES
• DOOR & WINDOW REPLACEMENT
• STUCCO/PLASTER RECONSTRUCTION
• RAIN GUTTERS/CHIMNEY CAPS
• SKYLIGHTS/ATTIC VENTING SYSTEMS
LAGUNA
The entire house will be solar-powered, and a garden is a must, notes Duffek, who comes from a long line of builders, architects and designers (as well as farmers) in Texas. In raised cedar beds, she’s hoping to grow peppers and herbs, and tomatoes for homemade salsa. “There’s nothing better than being able to pull healthy food out of your own garden,” she says.
Like many of Duffek’s client projects, hers will also incorporate a sauna and cold plunge, both thought to restore balance to the nervous system, improve cognitive function, boost mood and more.
For the interiors, she’ll follow the same trauma-informed design principles as her nonprofit, Design With Purpose, which initially repurposed materials discarded from client projects to create healing spaces for sick kids who were returning home from the hospital. Since then, it has evolved to designing wellness spaces in more than 60 schools and aftercare programs throughout Orange County, including the Boys and Girls Club right here in Laguna Beach.
Employing biophilic design, she uses natural hues—reminiscent of the ocean and sand and foliage—and incorporates abundant greenery. Furnishings are all made from natural materials like wool and cotton. She added skylights and multislide doors to invite in ample sunlight, and mimicked Eagle Rock’s natural stone in certain elements of the design.
NATURAL UPGRADES
Julie Laughton, a general contractor and designer whose eponymous studio has done both custom builds and historical and vintage remodels in Laguna, shares Duffek’s philosophy about clean design that reflects her clients’ lifestyles.
“It’s about aligning with their energy and values,” explains Laughton, who also sources nontoxic materials and even goes a step further to smudge a space using sage before drywalling. “I also use certain crystals to cleanse a house,” she says, noting how clear quartz placed near a
doorway diffuses negative energy, while amethyst promotes healing and even blocks EMFs.
Whether she’s restoring a funky midcentury modern abode in Bluebird Canyon or refreshing a century-old French provincial in Temple Hills, Laughton prioritizes wellness with natural materials—from insulation to interior decorating.
In the Bluebird Canyon house, Laughton first remodeled the kitchen and upstairs for an HGTV show. A few years later, the homeowner—who had inherited the house from his late father—wanted to reimagine a 1960s aesthetic in his dad’s honor.
“We gutted it and remodeled with nontoxic materials as much as possible,” Laughton says.
Her team tore out old orange shag carpet and chocolate-colored wood paneling and flooring, installing white oak. Shiny Formica countertops were replaced with natural quartzite.
In the bathrooms, “Neutral limestone that looks like drifting sand has a very ’60s beach vibe” that reflects the scenic coastal view, she says.
“The client grew up surfing and spending a lot of time at the beach, so she really wanted to [carry this] into the home,” Laughton says. “It’s all about the tranquility you create through use of materials you see, feel, touch [and] see. … All your senses have to be addressed.
“This is personal for each client,” she adds. “Your sanctuary should reflect you.” g
Right, top and bottom: Laughton opts for natural stone and other nontoxic materials in her home designs.
LASTS A LIFETIME
Students are able to explore, discover and learn so much and are so well supported here because they have a world of interests, natural talents and exciting paths to pursue. Vigorous academics, expert faculty, boundless opportunities and choices, engaging, vibrant learning environments, leading technology and resources. A spirit of excellence and innovation fuels a transformative experience that nurtures our students’ development, well-being and character, and challenges them to their fullest potential.
Imagine the lifelong impact of what our everyday would mean for your child.
2024 ADMISSION OPEN HOUSE EVENTS
For more information and to register, please visit: smesopenhouse.org
By JUSTINE AMODEO
When Thierry Le Goascoz, the French owner of Origins Lodge, started plans for a 111-acre jungle paradise that he bought sight unseen in Costa Rica’s northern rainforest, he began with the logo. The Japanese “enso,” a continuous circle with a slight gap in the brushstroke symbolizing the opening of the spirit, was what he felt echoed his vision: to express freedom, perfection and connection to the natural world.
The circular symbol appears throughout Origins—the first boutique property in Costa Rica’s northern jungle—reflected in the six round luxurious lodges, the trails that wind throughout the property, the indoor rain shower, yoga shala, infinity pool, round log slices stacked to fill the entrance door, the oculus on the bedroom ceilings that opens and closes to the sky, and extends to the
hot tubs, fire pits, surrounding volcanoes, ponds and lakes.
The country’s ancient circular architecture also informs the design of the property, located in Alajuela, on a foothill cradled by the Miravalles Volcano and Tenorio Volcano National Park, close to the Nicaraguan border, a place where Le Goascoz has said he planned to create “a new definition of luxury that will renew how one sees the world.”
A COMMITMENT TO SUSTAINABILITY
Origins’ core values focus on efforts to protect the environment, and sustainability practices include planting trees to aid in reforestation, harvesting the coveted Mélipona honey (which can be purchased by guests) from beehives on the property, sourcing fish from more than 10 nearby lakes, growing organic fruits and vegetables, repurposing fallen trees from hurricanes as material for
on-site carpentry shops, and more.
In addition, the lodge is part of the United Nations Environment Program pledge, eliminating single-use plastic on the property, and has its own waste management and recycling program. Organic bath amenities are made on-site from the property’s ylang-ylang trees and mosquito repellent is made from local citronella. Solar panels at each lodge are used to heat water for showers and sinks, where soapy water runs through a natural treatment facility and is reused for plant irrigation.
Sustainability is key throughout the property’s interiors, where French designers Patrick Rey and Hugues Blanchère, alongside Gaia Studio, sought to integrate Costa Rica’s landscape and rich preColumbian heritage. Rey was responsible for the concept’s vision while Blanchère was inspired by Costa Rican aboriginal architecture—including its style and materials—which informed his modern
Left: At Origins Lodge in Costa Rica, living roofs are made from native plants. Right: The Origins logo, the Japanese “enso,” symbolizes the opening of the spirit.
designs. Architecture, Nature & Development CEO/ architect Mario Aviles also contributed to the project and Rey’s wife, the French artist Valerie Rey, crafted unique sculptures made from fallen trees, dead branches and seed pods sublimated with gold.
Aiming to merge the building exteriors with their surrounding natural environment, Bermuda grass was chosen for the living roofs, easily blending in with the colors and sight lines of nearby trees and other vegetation. From structural bamboo to adobe walls and innovative use of recycled materials like glass bottles hidden below the floors, every choice was made with the environment in mind. Each of the six luxurious and romantic onebedroom lodges meld into the surroundings and feature a handcrafted canopy bed and beautifully tiled floors. A private, colorfully lit plunge pool on the terrace is heated by the crackling fire of a woodstove while tropical in-suite bathrooms feature indoor and outdoor showers. Mosquito nets wrap guests in their beds at night as they fall asleep to the pink noise of cicadas and tree frogs.
For larger groups, the property’s architectural masterpiece, the three-bedroom Vertigo Lodge, is available. As Le Goascoz’s original estate before the property was opened, the stunning lodge
sits suspended on stilts among the treetops and epitomizes the raw luxury movement with its aggregated materials handcrafted by local artisans. Starting in November 2025, a seven-unit hotel for families is opening on the property with two-, three- and four-bedroom options.
The main lobby, Skyview Lounge and restaurant area allow guests to see as far as Lake Cocibolca, the largest lake in Nicaragua, as well as the Solentiname Archipelago, a group of islands at its southern end. In this main gathering spot, a curvy infinity pool, which reflects the dramatic clouds above, allows guests to swim, float or rest on the ledges, sipping fresh lemongrass iced tea as they take in the views. It’s also the perfect spot to view the numerous birds that gather in the surrounding trees.
HAUTE FRENCH MEETS LATIN CUISINE
Lining the pool is El Salto restaurant, a place central to the Origins sustainability experience. Here, an exceptional culinary program integrates the property’s organic garden and surrounding areas. Local produce from the garden drives the open-air eatery’s seasonal menus created by Yann Berger, the French-born executive chef, who has worked at Michelin-starred restaurants.
patios; the
lobby and
Through daily interactions with the lodge’s gardeners and guides, Berger has learned a lot about the vast bounty of this rainforest and has added his own twist as a self-dubbed “rotisseur,” a master of roasting and grilling. As part of Origins’ commitment to sustainably, most of the dishes are cooked over a woodburning stove instead of with gas, and waste is turned into compost and used as fertilizer in the garden.
Menus change daily based on seasonal ingredients growing in the garden and because of this farm-to-table approach, there is only one multicourse lunch and dinner menu a day, posted on a chalkboard for guests to examine in case they need dietary adjustments. Each morning, breakfast is offered on colorful shared plates filled with fresh fruit, charcuterie, cheese, coconut milk chia pudding with jam, freshly baked breads, yogurt with granola, pastries and juices. If that isn’t enough, guests can order pancakes, eggs prepared in any style, and even a traditional Costa Rican breakfast of fried plantains, eggs, rice and black beans. The coffee, sourced from an artisanal producer from the area, is prepared with a traditional “chorreador.” Berger can often be found gathering produce from the garden. Before lunch one day, a group watched as he collected zucchini, oranges and edible
Clockwise from top left: The Origins Lodge lobby with a chandelier by Valerie Rey; artistic designs in the guest rooms; a hot tub heated by an outdoor fireplace on one of the lodge’s
property’s
pool; Executive Chef Yann Berger in the on-site garden
flowers for a dinner course: cold zucchini soup with naranjilla and quinoa, which he presented like an edible sculpture, the vibrant greens, reds and corals reflecting the colors of the surrounding rainforest, with its magenta-clawed heliconia flowers, scarlet-rumped tanager birds, and tiny mint greenand-black poison dart frogs.
Berger, who spent nearly three decades cooking at luxury resorts across Europe, brings a special skill set to this remote, five-star lodge: During his time at Naturhotel Forsthofgut in Austria, an upscale boutique hotel with a vegan menu option, he produced five-course plant-based menus daily along with innovative vegan pastries—equipping him to create imaginative cuisine for any dietary need.
CURATED VACATIONS FOR EVERY TRAVELER
Stays range from romantic getaways and wellness retreats to family vacations, weddings, reunions and company excursions. Core to most stays is a curated array of activities: nocturnal, sensorial and medicinal plant tours, waterfall hikes, yoga, horseback rides, lagoon fishing, chocolate making at a cacao farm, and shooting the rapids of Tenorio River.
The Laka-Tii Spa Suite offers signature organic treatments and healing massage therapies, such as
a 90-minute Ansillo Leaf Wrap Treatment, which consists of an exfoliation, moisturizing body wrap and gentle massage treatment using high-quality, medicinal herbs and honey all sourced at Origins.
Guests can choose from activities such as a makeyour-own bath amenities class where participants can create organic, personalized soap, shampoo and more by mixing flowers, plant-based oils and other ingredients sourced on the property; half-day nature excursions that combine hiking or horseback riding through hidden trails with a naturalist guide who will highlight the area’s unique flora and fauna, ending with a refreshing river splash and a delicious meal prepared by the culinary team; a couples cacao and sound healing ceremony with live kirtan music in the yoga shala to enhance connection; hikes to the property’s nearby Oro Waterfall; tortilla, cheese making or mixology classes; and nocturnal hikes where frogs can be seen by flashlight jumping across patches of grass that encircle a network of ponds.
Or you can just do nothing. Origins is a place to quiet the mind, merge with the sights, sounds and smells of the rainforest, bask in a tropical rainstorm, read a book in a warm fire-heated pool, wake up to an alarm clock of howler monkeys and slow down like the indigenous sloths that lounge in the canopy layer of trees; Le Goascoz’s vision, indeed. /
Horseback riding and waterfall hikes are among many offered activities.
HOW TO GET THERE
Flights are available from LAX to Liberia Guanacaste or San José airports. Arrivals by helicopter are available as well onto Origins Lodge’s private helipad or through private charter landing about 40 minutes from the property using Upala’s landing strip. Either way, Origins will pick you up for the drive that winds through small pueblos and lush mountains. For more information: originslodge.com.
Dine / Miki Sushi & Sake
Left: Miki Sushi & Sake (left), is the new iteration of 242 Cafe Fusion Sushi, which closed after chef-owner Miki Izumisawa passed away. The new eatery keeps her memory alive with the same staff and menu as before.
Top: Some of the dishes include (from left) Tuna Crispy nigiri; salmon serrano nigiri (front) and eel truffle nigiri (back); Whole Hole sashimi (front) and Laguna Canyon roll (back).
Leaving a Legacy
TWO LAGUNANS HONOR A BELOVED LOCAL CHEF, KEEPING HER MEMORY ALIVE WITH THE REOPENING OF HER SUSHI
By ASHLEY RYAN
Alittle over two years ago, Laguna Beach mourned a local icon when Miki Izumisawa lost her battle with cancer. The 242 Cafe Fusion Sushi owner trained under the renowned Nobu Matsuhisa in Las Vegas— despite the fact that Japanese customs have typically deemed women unsuitable for sushi-making—before coming to town and opening her unique restaurant in 2000.
After her passing, Izumisawa’s allfemale staff kept the restaurant running for almost a year until it closed in May 2023. A few months later, locals Chris
RESTAURANT.
Olsen (who also owns Wine Gallery) and Greg Washer purchased it from the trust, renovated the space, then reopened with a new name—Miki Sushi & Sake—in July of this year.
Although the restaurant’s name and intimate interior have been updated, not much else has changed. Izumisawa’s staff, who are more like family than colleagues, have returned and Olsen has ensured that the same menu is offered, showcasing the artful plates that Izumisawa herself so lovingly prepared. Inspired by nature and emotion, these vibrant dishes are just as
delicious as they are beautiful.
While you’ll still find a few traditional offerings here, the menu fully embraces the eccentricity of fusion fare. Grab some Pop Pop (or edamame) with house-made soy onion garlic sauce to start or enjoy two distinct varieties of miso soup that are also offered: tomato or sweet shrimp.
Savor the appetizers as you settle on which types of sushi to order. For something simple yet creative, sample some of the fusion nigiri. The Tuna Crispy layers deep red tuna, creamy avocado and purple cabbage with ginger atop koji, or fermented rice; it’s finished with ponzu sauce. Other standout options include the salmon serrano, which is topped with serrano pepper plus tosazu and miso sauces, or the eel truffle, which combines porcini mushroom, white truffle and green peppercorn.
When it comes to sashimi, try the Whole Hole, presenting salmon, tuna and snapper carpaccios topped with rare ingredients like lotus root and buckwheat shiso as well as scallion and lemon juice for a fresh twist. Fusion rolls are available as well, with captivating names like Feather in the Sky, Sweet Butterfly, Queen Lobster, Cherry Blossoms and Spicy Jewelry. But one of the continued favorites is, to no surprise, the Laguna Canyon. Resembling a salad more than sushi at first glance, the roll is crafted with tuna, salmon, yellowtail, white fish, crab, masago (capelin fish eggs), cucumber and avocado then topped with Sriracha, ponzu sauce and a hearty helping of greens. Rotating specials and vegetarian offerings are available as well.
Pair your sushi with a crisp white wine, like the Duckhorn chardonnay from Napa Valley or the Henri Bourgeois Sancerre, or a cold sake, such as the Kikusui Junmai Ginjo, which smoothly complements any dish.
Possibly the best part of the reimagined M iki Sushi & Sake is the portrait of Izumisawa that hangs by the door, watching over her beloved restaurant as her legacy lives on. g
MIKI SUSHI & SAKE
242 N. Coast Highway 949-494-2444; instagram.com/miki_sushi_sake
HOURS: 4:30-9 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday; 4:30-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday
ASHLEY RYAN
Taste of the Town / Dining News
BRAVO FOR SMAVO
A new eatery, SMAVO OC, has opened at 640 S. Coast Highway next to Coast Kitchen. Serving everything from soup and tacos to avocado toast, sandwiches, acai bowls, smoothies and coffee, it’s a one-stop shop for breakfast, lunch and snacks. For a light morning meal, try an inventive avocado toast: One option features peaches, micro greens and hot honey, while another pairs the avocado with strawberries, feta cheese and balsamic vinegar. A third avocado toast includes a poached egg on top with spinach and micro greens. For lunch, the Smavdog (hot dog) or turkey and havarti cheese sandwich with avocado, dragon fruit and agave are sure to satisfy. Tacos are also available, filled with fish or crispy tofu and sauteed mushrooms. On a cooler day, warm up with chicken tortilla soup, turkey or beef chili or a cup of ramen noodles with a hard boiled egg. Find refreshment with a Jungle smoothie, which blends pineapple, mango, orange juice, agave and honey. Add acai and coconut flakes for the Jungle Bowl. Smavo also offers some unique treats: KKandies’ freeze-dried candies, from Skittles to Airheads, watermelon gummies and more. Or indulge in the restaurant’s take on s’mores—the Smavores with toasted marshmallows, chocolate chips, graham crackers and freeze-dried Lucky Charms marshmallows. (949-3715273; smavooc.com) —Sharon Stello
AFTERNOON APPS
Happy hour has returned to LUMBERYARD with special deals from 3-5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The restaurant often pauses or shortens happy hour during the summer months, bringing it back to its full glory in the fall. In addition to pints of beer offered for $4 to $6, certain glasses of wine for $7 or $8 and cocktails like the City Hall Martini or seasonal sangria
at prices from $9 to $10, a range of dishes are also available at a bargain price. New are the shrimp taquitos, guacamole and chips, and charcuterie plate, while the Buffalo wings also prove popular. Other happy hour options include pork sliders, fish tacos and a Cubano sandwich with roasted pork loin, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles and Dijon. A drink and one of these tasty dishes sounds like a great way to celebrate the end of the day with a few friends. (949-715-3900; lblumberyard.com) —S.S.
THE LATEST SCOOP
Traditional and Mexican-inspired ice cream flavors like rich horchata and tangy passion fruit are now offered at a counter in La Tienda within BODEGA LAGUNA COCINA & CANTINA. Choose a crispy cone, waffle bowl or even a shake. The shop started scooping in late August and plans to continue at least through fall. Customers can also choose a refreshing “paleta,” or ice pop. While summer may be over, fall in Southern California promises
at least a few warm days when ice cream is a welcome treat—just steps from Main Beach. And really, it never gets cold enough to forego ice cream in Laguna Beach. For those who want something savory before their dessert, street tacos are also served up at La Tienda’s counter for a quick, flavorful bite on the go. Wash it down with a margarita with a salt or Tajín rim (to enjoy on-site only) or authentic Mexican hot chocolate, made with Abuelita’s signature chocolate blend and topped with a perfectly toasted marshmallow; churros are also available. (949-7151002; bodegalaguna.com) —S.S.
FALL FLAVORS
The refreshed menu at AVEO TABLE & BAR—the restaurant at Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club in nearby Dana Point—is filled with Latin-inspired cuisine and comforting flavors for the fall and winter seasons, to be served starting in early November. Conceptualized by newly appointed Chef de Cuisine Nicole Encarnacion, the menu introduces ingredients and flavors that
Left: Happy hour dishes at Lumberyard, including (clockwise from back left) charcuterie, pork sliders and shrimp taquitos; right: Bodega Laguna Cocina & Cantina’s ice cream counter
might be new to some diners, but presented in an approachable way. Paired with views of the Pacific Ocean on the expansive patio with a fire pit and heaters, a meal at Aveo is a great way to enjoy the sunset. Among the new dishes are a caprese salad with artisanal burrata—flown in from Italy every two weeks—and colorful roasted beets, heirloom tomatoes and balsamic. Pasta for the wild mushroom ravioli also comes from Italy and is served with porcini mascarpone sauce, sauteed fresh mushrooms and shaved Parmesan. The churrasco steak frites is also a hit: Grilled ribeye comes topped with chimichurri and a side of Parmesan-truffle french fries and shishito peppers. And jerkspiced organic chicken breast with black bean puree, yellow rice, sofrito and caramelized plantains is another flavorful choice. Other options include lobster mac and cheese, taco al pastor and mole-braised short ribs. Menu mainstays like the yellowtail ceviche and tuna tartare are still available and best enjoyed with a drink, like the passion fruit fresno margarita with just a hint of spice. Make sure to save room for desserts, which each come in a glass either a la carte or as a flight: Try the hazelnut chocolate rocher,
pumpkin pie cheesecake, cinnamon churros or vegan date cake. (949234-3200; waldorfastoriamonarch beach.com) —S.S.
COMFORT CUISINE
New dishes and drinks for autumn have arrived at SELANNE STEAK TAVERN. Seasonal starters include sweet potato bisque with confit duck, pickled apple and cranberry gel; endive and poached apple salad with candied walnuts, whipped Gorgonzola and maple vinaigrette; and short rib raviolo with root vegetable soubise (onion sauce thickened with bechamel), crispy carrot and vadouvan (curry blend) oil. These warm, comforting fall flavors continue with sides like broccoli gratin with bacon and Tillamook cheddar bechamel; rainbow carrots with harissa, maple syrup and pistachio crumble; and decadent Maine lobster mashed potatoes with lobster veloute sauce and peas. Not to be outdone, some swoon-worthy desserts have also been added to the fall lineup. Try the bananas Foster pot de creme with banana jam, salted caramel custard and almond streusel rum raisin ice cream, or the “spumoni” chocolate dome with strawberry almond cake, pistachio nougatine strawberry
coulis and vanilla ice cream. The season also brings a bounty of new cocktails. Try the vodka-based I’ll Be Your Huckleberry with white chocolate liqueur, huckleberry syrup and espresso, What’s My Sage Again with vodka, cucumber, mint, lime and sagecinnamon simple syrup; and bourbon-filled Ready to Fall with apple cinnamon, lemon and egg white. These offerings will be available for most of the remaining months of the year and possibly beyond, although some may be tweaked for the winter menu update. (949-715-9881; selannesteaktavern.com) —S.S. /
RESTAURANT LISTINGS
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Left: Pan-roasted Chilean sea bass at Aveo Table & Bar; right: new fall dishes at Selanne Steak Tavern
Last Impressions / Chuck Harrell
10
MINUTES WITH Chuck Harrell
THE LONGTIME SANDPIPER LOUNGE OWNER LOOKS BACK ON MORE THAN 50 YEARS OF RUNNING THE “DIRTY BIRD.”
By SHARON STELLO
Chuck Harrell has owned The Sandpiper Lounge for more than half a century; on Dec. 6, it will have been 55 years. And he has plenty of funny and memorable stories from this Laguna Beach landmark that’s a favorite of locals and Marine Corps members, whose framed patches decorate the walls. Lovingly called the “Dirty Bird,” loyal patrons come not only for the drinks, but for the camaraderie of the staff and regulars, plus the live music seven nights a week, from reggae on weekdays to cover bands on weekends.
“The Sandpiper still is known as the late spot,” Harrell says. “Everybody goes to all the other restaurants and bars and then comes to The Sandpiper … to finish off the night.”
Harrell’s uncle opened The Sandpiper in 1942, running it for about a decade as a fine dining establishment. After changing hands three or four times, Harrell’s family bought the place back in 1969, switching it from a restaurant to a bar. Harrell ran the watering hole with his mom, Jeana, and brother, Chip, until they passed away. Now his sons, Grant and Spencer, and his wife, Jeannie, help keep it going along with several longtime employees.
For anyone wondering, Harrell, 78, has no intention of retiring. Even though he stopped bartending after a double knee replacement, he still loves coming into The Sandpiper. Looking back on all the years, two stories stand out as the most memorable.
“One of my favorite ones was a guy in the Marine Corps came in … and he had an albino catfish,” Harrell recalls. “He was being shipped overseas and he asked if he could put it in our fish tank. And we went, ‘Sure.’ ” While the guy was gone, a state Fish and Game official came and said he had to give them a ticket because the invasive fish wasn’t allowed in California. “The funny part of it was when they took it away,” Harrell says, “… we decided to do a wake for the catfish. … His name was Schwartz.”
Harrell also remembers a couple of Marines accidentally drunk dialed a guy named Melvin Miller in Ohio while at the bar. “They called him up and talked to him for a while,” Harrell says. “… The guy said, ‘Well, you can call me anytime you want if you have a problem or you need help or you need to talk to somebody.’ ” After a while, the Marine Corps guys took up
a collection to bring Miller to Laguna. They even threw a parade in his honor. “And when Melvin Miller got here, they got him into the bar and … they wanted to buy him a drink and he said, ‘Well, I don’t drink. I’d like a glass of milk,’” Harrell says, recalling how someone ran down the block to get milk from the Wheel House restaurant that used to stand where Jack in the Box is now.
And there have been a few celebrities among the customers at The Sandpiper, Harrell recalls. “[Former NBA basketball player] Dennis Rodman used to come in for a while,” Harrell says. “And we’ve had Kenny Loggins come in a couple of times … sit in with bands and play. It’s been an interesting 55 years.”
LAGUNA BEACH MAGAZINE: What do people like about The Sandpiper?
CHUCK HARRELL: I think what they like first is the music, but also that it’s acceptable for anybody. There’s no particular one kind of person that comes in. They’re all ages. … Plus it’s a local place. I do fundraisers. … because I’m an old local. … [And] we haven’t changed it. … People walk in and say, … “I haven’t been here in 25 years and it’s still the same.”
LBM: Any favorite places in Laguna?
CH: We used to like to go to the old Royal Hawaiian. … I used to go to The Saloon and the Marine Room [Tavern,] … but I quit drinking about eight years ago. I was 70 at the time and I just thought, you know, I have two boys … [and] I’d like to stick around long enough to see them get married and have families. A little over a year ago, I had my first grandchild. … My younger kid, Spencer, had a kid in June of last year. And my older son, Grant, is having a baby [this fall]. … Now I’ll have two grandchildren. And my wife and I are just tickled pink about it.
LBM: You play Santa at the holidays?
CH: I play Santa at The Saloon when they do their Toys for Tots party. I’ve been doing that for 16 years. … [And] this last year, … I played Santa Claus at the Winter [Fantasy]. … It’s really neat … just to see the smiles on the kids’ faces. g
Chuck Harrell, longtime owner of The Sandpiper Lounge
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CUSTOM THREE ARCH BAY HOME
7 South Vista de Catalina Laguna Beach
$4,998,000 3 beds 2 baths ~2,137 sq.ft.
Sophisticated detailing throughout this remodeled Craftsman style home. Unique single level, comprised of private master suite and two additional bedrooms on separate wing. Blue water and Dana Point bluffs views. Open living room with vaulted ceiling that naturally flows into the kitchen and dining spaces. Granite kitchen features large center island, Mahogany cabinetry and stainless steel appliances. Formal dining room, built-in desk niche and comfortable den retreat spaces. Solid, wood framed, dual paned windows and French doors all look out to greenery views of colorful landscape and swaying palms. The private rear patio with flagstone, fountain, built-in barbecue with bar seating, outdoor fireplace is a wonderful outdoor oasis. Luxury community amenities, including private access to the sand where the amazing Three Arches and Bay will capture your spirit and welcome you home.
