Issuu

AALegacy Legacy ofofExcellence Excellence

$1 BILLION++

LIFETIME SALES

$1 40 BILLION+ ++ YEARS+ LIFETIME SALES

EXPERIENCE

40 YEARS+ TOP +1% EXPERIENCE

IN SAN DIEGO COUNTY 2025 NSDCAR R.E.A.L. AWARDS

TOP 1%

PLATINUM WINNER IN SAN DIEGO COUNTY 2025 NSDCAR R.E.A.L. AWARDS

PLATINUM WINNER

SDAR 2025 CIRCLE OF EXCELLENCE

TOP 50

SDAR 2025 CIRCLE OF EXCELLENCE

TOP 50

RANKING AMONG PACIFIC SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY AGENTS RANKING AMONG PACIFIC SOTHEBY’S EVERY QUARTER 2025 INTERNATIONAL REALTY AGENTS EVERY QUARTER 2025

TOP THOUSAND

2025 REALTRENDS VERIFIED NATIONAL

RANKING AWARD WINNER 2025 REALTRENDS VERIFIED NATIONAL RANKING AWARD WINNER

EXPERIENCE CAN TRUST. EXPERIENCE YOUYOU CAN TRUST. RESULTS YOU’LL LOVE! RESULTS YOU’LL LOVE!

LINDA DANIELS

LINDA TheDANIELS Daniels Group The Daniels Group| TheDanielsGroup.com DRE 00545941 858.361.5561 | Team@TheDanielsGroup.com DRE 00545941 | TheDanielsGroup.com 858.361.5561 | Team@TheDanielsGroup.com

Information per SDMLS and other sources deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Source Date 05.19.2026 Each office is independently owned and operated. DRE 01767484.

Magnificent Views, Location, Architecture. LA JOLLA • $6,298,000

© 2026 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties (BHHSCP) is a member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates LLC. BHHS and the BHHS symbol are registered service marks of Columbia Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate. BHH Affiliates LLC and BHHSCP do not guarantee accuracy of all data including measurements, conditions, and features of property. Information is obtained from various sources and will not be verified by broker or MLS. Buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of that information.

GREG NOONAN & Associates

Greg Noonan

REPRESENTATION & RESULTS YOU CAN TRUST 1-800-LA JOLLA DRE #00655720 LaJollaHomes.com

Patrick Noonan (858) 349-6621 DRE #01865118

Conor Noonan (858) 337-9397 5 DRE #01944898

BORN

in La Jolla.

RAISED

in La Jolla.

LIVES

in La Jolla.

Sells in La Jolla. Every La Jolla home has a story. Johnny would love to tell yours.

CONNECTED EVERY WHERE. Looking for assistance in another location? I can introduce you to one of my fantastic referral partners in the location of your choice.

Orange County

•

Los Angeles

Hawaii • Seattle • Park City •

•

Montecito • Monterey • San Francisco

Jackson Hole

•

Bozeman • Aspen

•

• Vail

Bay Area •

•

Napa • Lake Tahoe

Denver • Dallas

•

Houston

Chicago • Nashville • Miami • Atlanta • Boston • Washington DC • New York • Hamptons • And Many More 6

FOR SALE | 522 GRAVILLA PLACE

FOR SALE | 8650 VIA MALLORCA UNIT E

3 BD | 2 BA | 1,627 SQ FT | 5,990 SQ FT LOT. | $3,000,000

2 BD | 2 BA | 978 SQ FT | $799,900

COMING SOON | CONDO IN THE VILLAGE

JUST SOLD FOR $3,100,000

2 BD | 2 BA | 1,300+ SQ FT | $1, 250,000

5926 GERMAINE LANE, THE MUIRLANDS

JUST SOLD OFF-M ARKET FOR $1,758,684

PRIVATE LISTING | LA JOLLA

320 PALOMAR AVE, BEACH BARBER TRACT

EXCLUSIVELY ON COMPASS.COM | CALL FOR DETAILS

LOOKING TO SELL? Call Johnny today to be featured in the next issue of La Jolla Living Magazine.

Johnny Noris REALTOR® | DRE 02023983 858.349.7170 Johnny@JohnnyNoris.com JohnnyNoris Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License # 01991628, 1527235, 1527365, 1356742, 1443761, 1997075, 1935359, 1961027, 1842987, 1869607, 1866771, 1527205, 1079009, 1272467. 7

Contents LA JOLLA LIVING HAPPENINGS Highlighting the happenings that make La Jolla and surrounding neighborhoods vibrant year-round.

SOUTH COAST PLAZA FASHION Explore the latest resort fashion trends of South Coast Plaza inspired by Puerto Rican style, featuring breezy fabrics, bold prints, and tropical elegance.

CARA STUDIOS IN LA JOLLA Discover how CARA Studios combines advanced skincare, brow artistry, and holistic wellness treatments to create personalized self-care experiences.

16 LA JOLLITA BRINGS BAJA FLAVOR TO LA JOLLA La Jollita introduces an upscale coastal Mexican dining experience, featuring fresh Baja-inspired seafood and vibrant flavors.

GRANDE COLONIAL MARKS 25 YEARS OF LA JOLLA LUXURY The Grande The iconic Grande Colonial celebrates 25 years of exceptional hospitality, historic charm, and coastal luxury in the heart of La Jolla.

18 LA JOLLA MURALS La Jolla program transforms the community into an outdoor art gallery.

LA JOLLA SUCCESS STORY How La Jolla resident, broker turned investor Nick Totah started buying apartments in his first year in the business and built a private portfolio from scratch.

LA JOLLA REAL ESTATE Local broker Todd Law shares insights into the strength, growth, and investment opportunities within La Jolla’s commercial real estate market.

LA JOLLA THROUGH THE LENS OF TIME A look back at La Jolla’s history through archival photographs showcasing the community’s growth, culture, and coastal heritage.

LA JOLLA WINERY La Jolla Winery brings wine enthusiasts together to create and enjoy locally crafted wines.

LA JOLLA’S CORNER GATHERING SPOT Corner Mercantile & Eatery- where locals gather to shop, dine, and connect.

LA JOLLA’S JEWEL BALL A preview of the highly anticipated Las Patronas Jewel Ball, where philanthropy, tradition, and celebration come together for a memorable evening.

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA’S ULTIMATE SHOPPING DESTINATION ALAÏA AUDEMARS PIGUET BALENCIAGA BOTTEGA VENETA BREITLING BRUNELLO CUCINELLI BVLGARI CARTIER CELINE DELVAUX DIOR FENDI GIVENCHY GRAFF GUCCI HERMÈS JESSICA McCORMACK KHAITE LOUIS VUITTON MANOLO BLAHNIK PATEK PHILIPPE PRADA ROGER DUBUIS SAINT LAURENT TIFFANY & CO. VALENTINO ZEGNA

partial listing

COSTA MESA, CALIFORNIA 9 SOUTHCOASTPLAZA.COM

LA JOLLA - FOR SALE

1420 L A JOLL A KNOLLS | OFFERED AT $5,495,0 0 0

p Re

e es

S d te

e ell

LA JOLLA - SOLD

5660 MOONLIGHT L ANE | $3,975,0 0 0

p Re

e es

B d e t

e uy

The Appleby family arrived in La Jolla in 1971 and is proud to be celebrating a family tradition of trusted real estate service for the past 40 years. YOUR LA JOLLA AND RANCHO SANTA FE SPECIALISTS SINCE 1985

ANDREW APPLEBY

858.602.9696 | DRE# 02141307

KERRY APPLEBY PAYNE

858.204.7920 | DRE# 01071814

“IT TAKES A FAMILY” CARLSBAD - SOLD

SHORE DRIVE | $9,750,0 0 0

Dear Readers,

Credits

s Publisher of La Jolla Living, I’m pleased to share a preview of our upcoming issue, celebrating the people, culture, and stories that make La Jolla so special. This edition features a curated pictorial look back at historic La Jolla, drawn from the archives of the La Jolla Historical Society. We also feature a conversation with Julio Ramirez Eguia, owner, performer and local La Jollan at La Jollita, La Jolla’s newest restaurant serving authentic Mexican cuisine. Additional stories include La Jolla’s vibrant mural scene, the story behind our very own La Jolla Winery, the Hollywood connection between La Jolla and Rancho Santa Fe, luxury fashions from the retailers at South Coast Plaza, the origins of the Shores Corner Mercantile and Eatery, the Grande Colonial’s anniversary, and a look at preparations underway for this year’s Jewel Ball.

Founder/Publisher – Peter Gotfredson Creative Directors – Ana Gabriela Valenzuela, Daniela Cantu and Ivanna Garza Writers – Patricia Ayala, ChatGPT Photography – Peter M. Gotfredson, La Jolla Historical Society, South Coast Plaza, Las Patronas, Timothy Gotfredson, La Jolla Winery, Alamy Social Media – Squeeze Studio Special Thanks to: Colette Militello, Las Patronas, Rob Hixson and Camila Ibarra Gallego FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION CONTACT: Beatriz Gonzalez – beatriz@lajollalivingmagazine.com Alex Nelepovits – alex@lajollalivingmagazine.com Peter Gotfredson – peter@lajollalivingmagazine.com @LaJollaLivingMag

Warm Regards, Peter Gotfredson Publisher, La Jolla Living

La Jolla Living Magazine

where

comes to

VISIT TODAY

life.

Experience the wonders of the ocean through unforgettable animal encounters, immersive exhibits and panoramic ocean views.

la jolla | aquarium.ucsd.edu

HAPPENINGS

Stay in the know – La Jolla Happenings Your seasonal guide to what’s going on in and around La Jolla. We highlight the can’t-miss moments happening over the next few months. Whether you’re a longtime resident or a first-time visitor, there’s always something exciting around the corner in La Jolla!

A Venetian Dream Comes to Life

A touch of Venetian romance is headed to La Jolla as Las Patronas presents Festa di Venezia. One of the community’s most cherished traditions, the Jewel Ball is set to deliver another unforgettable evening of elegance, laughter, and dancing under the stars—all in support of the incredible charitable work that has defined this iconic event for generations.

An Open Water Tradition

Publisher’s Pick: Solo Beauty Scrub Brush

The Sound of Summer Nights

September 13, La Jolla Cove becomes one of the La Jolla Cove swim. Framed by rugged cliffs and calm Pacific waters, swimmers gather for an open-water experience that feels invigorating serene. As summer softens into early fall, the ocean remains warm for long scenic swims marine life sweeping natural views. It is a timeless La Jolla ritual that blends endurance, nature, and quiet beauty.

Every once in a while, a product makes us wonder, “Why didn’t someone think of this sooner?” The Solo Beauty Scrub Brush is one of those finds. Whether you’re applying lotion, sunscreen, or trying to wash hard-to-reach spots on your back, this clever tool makes it easy— no awkward stretching or asking for help. A simple solution that makes everyday self-care easier.

Concerts by the Sea returns to La Jolla this summer, running from mid-July through mid-August at La Jolla Cove. As the sun sets over the Pacific, live music fills the air, creating an intimate evening by the water. Guests are invited to bring a blanket, settle in, and enjoy a rotating lineup of performances that celebrate summer, community, and the rhythm of the sea.

Learn more at lajollacoveswim.com

Visit solobeautyroc.com

Ocean Adventures for Summer

A Charming Bookshop in Bird Rock

Glamour at the Finish Line

At Birch Aquarium at Scripps, summer camp becomes a coastal experience where ocean science, exploration, and imagination come to life. Running from mid-June through early August, campers dive into marine activities, from tide pool discovery to beach adventures along the La Jolla coastline. Guided by educators and inspired by the Pacific, each week blends learning and play where curiosity meets the rhythm of the sea.

At the heart La Jolla’s Bird Rock neighborhood, Bird Rock Bookshop is a charming independent bookstore bringing a community-centered spirit to the coast. Founded in 2025, offers curated selection of children’s books, young adult reads literary gifts in a warm, intimate space. With story time gatherings a focus on fostering lifelong readers, quickly become a neighborhood destination where pages, imagination, community come together.

Set against the coastal charm of Del Mar, the iconic Del Mar Racetrack comes alive each summer from mid-July through early September, where tradition and seaside elegance meet. Here, afternoons unfold into races framed by ocean breezes and style. From opening day glamour to weekends, guests gather for fashion, flavor, and trackside energy that feels timeless and vibrant. It’s a Southern California ritual— where summer is celebrated by the sea.

For information, visit aquarium.ucsd.edu

Read more at kiwanisclublajolla.org

Ikaria Brings Mediterranean Dining to La Jolla

A Celebration of Waves and Tradition

The Evolution of an OpenAir Lifestyle Destination

Ikaria is poised to become one of La Jolla’s most anticipated coastal dining destinations, where Mediterranean inspiration meets effortless California elegance. Drawing from the spirit of the Greek islands, it is expected to offer a refined yet relaxed experience centered on shared plates, fresh seafood, vibrant mezze, and coastal wines. Every detail reflects a slow, intentional approach to dining. Guests can look forward to long, sunlit evenings and conversation-driven meals that capture the essence of seaside living.

The Surfing Story, Luau and Legends of Surfing Invitational brings together ocean culture, tradition, and community in a celebration of La Jolla’s connection to the sea. Set against coastal breaks, the event blends storytelling, Hawaiian-inspired luau elements, and competitive surfing honoring legacy and lifestyle. Surfers and spectators gather for a day rooted in heritage, where waves, music, and shared history create a vibrant atmosphere of connection and celebration along the shoreline.

University Town Center (Westfield UTC) in La Jolla is evolving into one of San Diego’s most dynamic lifestyle destinations, blending luxury retail, dining, and community spaces. An expansion is happening that adds upscale boutiques, chef-driven restaurants, and resort-style design elements that make the center feel more like an open-air district than a traditional mall. With new concepts continuing to arrive, UTC is shaping a more elevated experience centered on shopping, gathering, and modern coastal living.

For reservations go to ikarialajolla.com

For information go to luaulegendsofsurfing.org

westfield.com/en/united-states/utc

Mornings at the Edge of the Sea

At the iconic The Marine Room, the High Tide Breakfast transforms the morning into a truly immersive coastal experience where the ocean meets the table. As waves rise and break dramatically beyond the floor-to-ceiling windows, guests linger over a beautifully curated breakfast inspired by seasonal California flavors and fresh local ingredients. The ever-changing seascape creates a captivating backdrop, turning an ordinary meal into a memorable occasion. It is an intimate moment in La Jolla where nature, cuisine, and the rhythm of the sea come together in quiet cinematic harmony, offering a one-of-a-kind way to start the day. For more information, visit The Marine Room.

Evenings of Music by the Sea

SummerFest at the Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center is one of La Jolla’s most anticipated summer traditions, presented by the La Jolla Music Society from late July through August. The festival brings together internationally acclaimed musicians for a curated series of chamber, jazz, and contemporary performances. Set in an intimate, world-class venue, each concert feels personal and immersive, transforming summer evenings into moments of artistry, connection, and cultural elegance at the heart of La Jolla’s creative scene.

JULY 31 - AUGUST 29

For information go to theconrad.org

An Intimate Premiere at La Jolla Playhouse

The Family Album makes its world premiere at La Jolla Playhouse this summer, staged at the Sheila and Hughes Potiker Theatre. The new musical explores memory, identity, and the complexity of family life through intimate storytelling and emotionally rich music. As part of the Playhouse’s commitment to new work, it highlights La Jolla’s role as a creative hub where innovative theatre and fresh voices shape the summer arts season.

FIRST LOOK PREVIEWS Jul 17, 18, 19 mat, 21, 22, 23

WEEKS 2-5:

Jul 19 eve, Jul 24 – Aug 16

For information go to lajollaplayhouse.org

CARA PAYMASTER

The studio received nominations from San Diego Magazine in both 2024 and 2025 for Best Facial — recognition that reflects the exceptional level of service and results clients expect.

The Beaut Beautyy Expert Cara Paymaster Sets the New Standard for Facials, Healing, and Skin Health

or more than 20 years, Cara Paymaster has built her reputation on something deeper than beauty alone — helping people feel confident in their own skin. From her studio in the heart of La Jolla, Cara and her team of Cynthia and Madison, have become trusted skincare specialists serving La Jollans with a personalized approach that blends advanced treatment techniques, holistic wellness, and genuine connection. Her growing recognition throughout San Diego reflects not only her expertise but also the loyalty and trust she has earned from clients over the years. That reputation has not gone unnoticed. Cara and her studio were nominated by the San Diego Reader as Best Estheticians, Best Skincare Studios, and Best Wax Studios in 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024. In addition, the studio received nominations from San Diego Magazine in 2024, 2025 and won in 2026, for Best Esthetician — recognition that reflects the exceptional level of service and results clients expect. Cara’s passion for skincare and wellness has guided her career from the very beginning. Dedicated to understanding both advanced treatment techniques and holistic skin health, she has pursued extensive education throughout the country and abroad. Her advanced training has taken her to New York City, Los Angeles, and Paris, where she studied innovative skincare therapies and facial techniques that now help define the studio’s elevated approach to treatment. At the heart of Cara’s La Jolla studio is a deeply customized skincare experience. Cara and her team, including Madison, begin 16

every facial with a calming ritual to relax the mind before treatment. Rather than offering one-size-fits-all services, each facial is tailored to the client’s skin needs and organized into customized treatment levels. For first-time guests unsure where to start, the studio offers “The Facial,” a comprehensive introductory treatment designed to assess and address overall skin health. The studio works with respected professional skincare lines including Environ Medical Grade Skincare and IsClinical Skincare, while maintaining a “Cleani-cal” philosophy that combines clinically effective ingredients with botanical-based healing products. Cara and her entire team are also Face Reality Acne Certified, allowing them to provide specialized care and guidance for clients struggling with acne and skin imbalances. The range of advanced treatments available reflects Cara’s commitment to offering both innovation and results-driven care. Services include facials, chemical peels, dermaplaning, microcurrent therapy, nanoinfusion, Celluma LED light therapy, and Procell Therapies Micro-Channeling. The studio also offers the internationally recognized BioRePeel from Italy and CELLSTORY “Liquid Needling” from Korea, cutting-edge treatments designed to rejuvenate skin texture, tone, and overall radiance with minimal downtime. Cara’s expertise in facial massage and sculpting techniques further distinguishes the studio experience. She completed Level 1 certification in the Sculptural Face Lifting Method developed by Yakov Gershkovich in Paris, France, as well as lymphatic drainage and rejuvenating massage certifications through Via Skincare

in Los Angeles. Buccal massage certifications add another layer to the studio’s advanced facial offerings, helping promote circulation, sculpting, relaxation, and natural rejuvenation. Importantly, Cara’s studio also prioritizes inclusivity and safety in skincare. Pregnancy-safe and oncology-safe facials ensure that clients navigating sensitive health conditions can still enjoy restorative and customized treatments with confidence and comfort. Beyond the technology and certifications, clients throughout La Jolla return because of the environment Cara and her team have created. The atmosphere is warm, welcoming, and intentionally calming — a place where skincare becomes both treatment and ritual. Clients are encouraged to ask questions, learn about their skin, and feel supported throughout their skincare journey. For Cara Paymasters, skincare is not simply about appearance. It is about helping people feel refreshed, restored, and confident in their own skin. Through advanced education, a holistic philosophy, and deeply personalized care, Cara and her team continue to redefine the modern skincare experience for the La Jolla community. To book your treatment, go to carapaymaster.com 17

NINE-TEN RESTAURANT

NINE-TEN RESTAURANT TURNS 25 NINE-TEN Restaurant, known for its seasonal, ingredient-driven cuisine and longstanding relationships with local farms and purveyors, offers an elevated yet approachable dining experience that reflects the spirit of coastal Southern California.

ince opening in 2001, the restaurant has helped shape the region’s culinary identity long before “farm-to-table” became a defining movement. At the helm is Executive Chef Jason Knibb, who has led the kitchen since 2003, 23 of the restaurant’s 25 years. Known for his ingredient-driven approach, Chef Knibb blends classical technique with globally inspired influences, all rooted in Southern California’s seasonal bounty. His philosophy remains grounded in sourcing the freshest local ingredients and allowing them to shine. “As we celebrate 25 years this summer, it’s incredible to reflect on how far San Diego’s dining scene has come,” said Knibb. “When NINE-TEN opened, our focus on local sourcing and sustainability was ahead of its time. Today, while the industry has evolved, our commitment to those principles remains unchanged.” While NINE-TEN officially opened in 2001, the storied corner it occupies dates back nearly a century. Originally home to the La Jolla Drugstore in 1928, the space later became Putnam’s Pharmacy, known for its soda fountain and warm community atmosphere. The pharmacist, father of Gregory Peck, raised the future Hollywood star in La Jolla. In 1980, the space became Putnam’s Grille, a beloved 19

Nine-Ten Restaurant today.

Chef Knibb has also competed on Iron Chef America, facing Bobby Flay. 20

Over the past two decades, the restaurant has earned national recognition, including honors from the California MICHELIN Guide and the California Restaurant Association...

local landmark for decades. Today, NINE-TEN continues that legacy as a gathering place for locals and visitors alike. Over the past two decades, the restaurant has earned national recognition, including honors from the California MICHELIN Guide and the California Restaurant Association, along with widespread critical acclaim. Chef Knibb has also competed on Iron Chef America, facing Bobby Flay. One constant remains: the iconic Half-Baked Chocolate Cake, on the menu since day one, with more than 100,000 served. Today, NINE-TEN stands as a cornerstone of La Jolla dining, where history, hospitality, and seasonality come together on every plate. Reservations are recommended. Visit www.nine-ten.com or call (858) 964-5400.

Putnam’s Grill in the 80s and 90s.

LA JOLLA SUCCESS STORY

The 100 Million Dollar Bet How La Jolla resident, broker turned investor Nick Totah started buying apartments in his first year in the business, built a private portfolio from scratch, and is now setting his sights on $100 million.

BY RICHARD ARLIN WALKER

in San Diego was a dollar working for me instead of just sitting there.” That decision, made at 25 with no outside capital and no family money behind it, set the course for what has become one of the more disciplined private multifamily portfolios built by a working broker in San Diego. Today Totah owns a sizable collection of properties across the county, built over 14 years, funded entirely through brokerage income reinvested back into real estate rather than spent. “It was never glamorous,” Totah said. “It was buying a duplex, then a fourplex, then finding the next one. We weren’t chasing trophy assets. We were chasing supply constrained neighborhoods where rents had nowhere to go but up and where we could add value ourselves.” That hands-on philosophy extended beyond acquisitions. As the portfolio grew, Totah found himself managing it directly, eventually building his own property management company to run the day-to-day operations across his expanding holdings. This year, Totah sold that company to Shore

“

“I just knew that every dollar I put into a property in San Diego was a dollar working for me instead of just sitting there.” - Nick Totah

“

or La Jolla resident Nick Totah, success is measured less by the deals he has closed than by the long-term investments he has quietly built along the way. While many know him as one of San Diego’s leading commercial real estate brokers, those who know him best understand that his greatest achievement may be the private real estate portfolio he began assembling long before most people would have considered taking the risk. It is a quintessential La Jolla success story— one built on discipline, patience, and an unwavering belief in both San Diego and the community he now calls home. Nick Totah closed his first apartment deal before he had any business closing one. He was barely a year into commercial brokerage, still learning the difference between a cap rate and a comp, when he decided the smartest thing he could do with his early commissions was not save them. It was to buy. “I didn’t wait until I felt ready,” Totah said. “I don’t think anybody ever feels ready. I just knew that every dollar I put into a property

“

“Whatever it takes became my mantra, and it still is.” - Nick Totah

“ Management, a deliberate move to free himself from operational work and put his full focus on what he considers the real opportunity ahead: scaling the portfolio toward $100 million. “Running a management company was its own business, and it was a good one,” Totah said. “But I realized I was spending energy on operations when I should be spending it on acquisitions and on raising capital to grow faster. Selling it wasn’t stepping back. It was stepping forward.” That next chapter centers on a possible path Totah is considering to eventually bring outside investors into the strategy he has run with his own money for over a decade. He has already been approached more than

once about raising outside capital, and while he has not pulled that trigger, the idea would be to target the same value-add multifamily opportunities in supply-constrained San Diego neighborhoods that built his personal portfolio, this time with institutional structure behind it. “I’ve spent 14 years proving this model works with my own capital,” Totah said. “At some point, the opportunity may be to scale it with partners who want exposure to San Diego multifamily without having to learn everything the hard way like I did.” None of this would have been possible without the brokerage career that financed it. Totah joined Marcus & Millichap in his mid-20s without a college degree, eventually

building and leading The Totah Group, and 14 years later still calls it the foundation of everything he has built, working his way up through what he describes as relentless self-education. “I would come home and watch instructional videos. I would find someone who speaks really well and study how they speak. I would keep notes on my phone whenever I heard a word I didn’t know and make sure I understood it before the next conversation,” Totah said. “Whatever it takes became my mantra, and it still is.” That obsession translated into results. Today he leads The Totah Group at Marcus & Millichap with transaction volume approaching $1 billion, including many highprofile and notable transactions throughout San Diego. His team has sold properties throughout San Diego County, ranging from historic buildings to office, retail, and residential assets, with notable La Jolla transactions including Prospect Square for $10.3 million. But ask Totah what the brokerage career actually gave him and the answer has little to do with commissions. “A career like that is an education money cannot buy,” he said. “A broker sees everything. The deals that close, the deals that collapse, who bought too late, who sold too soon, and which neighborhoods quietly outperform the noise around them. I used everything I learned on the brokerage side of the table to make better decisions on the ownership side.” That dual perspective—buyer and seller, broker and owner—is what Totah believes 23

La Jolla’s Premier Family Owned Jeweler Since 1945 Bowers is the go-to store for fine jewelry, unique trinkets, jewelry and luxury watch repairs and exceptional, personalized service.

Open Monday through Saturday 9:30am–5:30pm Bowers Jewelers, 7860 Girard Ave., La Jolla, CA 92037

858-459-3678 www.bowersjewelerslajolla.com

His connection to San Diego traces back to his grandmother, a first-generation immigrant from the Middle East who arrived in the United States in 1969 and worked as a housekeeper in La Jolla. His parents eventually opened a restaurant, building the kind of family work ethic that Totah credits for his own drive. “I grew up in a family where everybody participated,” Totah said. “They made it to a decent middle-income class and passed on a lot of these ways of life, to work hard and to build. I felt a deep desire to prove myself and to build something bigger.” Fourteen years at Marcus & Millichap later, that something bigger has a name and a target. Totah calls it the hundred million dollar bet, and there is a symmetry to it that he does not take for granted. His grandmother once cleaned houses in La Jolla so her family could have a foothold in this country. Her grandson now lives on the beach in La Jolla, building a portfolio aimed at $100 million. As La Jolla Living readers who have watched him close deals across the county for over a decade know, he is just getting started.

“

San Diego is a supply constrained market with worldclass fundamentals, and La Jolla sits at the top of it. - Nick Totah

“

would separate his approach from most operators if he does eventually raise capital. “Most people in this business pick a lane. They’re either brokers or they’re investors,” Totah said. “I’ve spent 14 years being both, and I think that’s exactly why it could work down the line. I wouldn’t be asking investors to trust a track record I read about. I’d be asking them to trust one I built with my own money, in this market, for over a decade.” Through cycles, rate hikes, and shifting sentiment, Totah has remained unwavering in his conviction about San Diego, and La Jolla in particular. “La Jolla is probably one of the safest places to invest in San Diego,” Totah said. “The values maintain themselves better than almost any other market here, with fewer fluctuations. I’ve seen the data and I’ve lived the data, buying and selling through every kind of market this county has been through, and there is nowhere I would rather put my own capital. San Diego is a supply constrained market with worldclass fundamentals, and La Jolla sits at the top of it. That’s not a sales pitch. That’s where I’ve put my own money for 14 years.”

HISTORY

Timeless La Jolla

Historic images from the archives of the La Jolla Historical Society

a Jolla’s story has always been written as much in images as in words. From quiet seaside cottages and dusty village streets to glamorous gatherings, iconic surf culture and generations of families drawn to the coastline, the photographs in this special pictorial capture the people, places and moments that shaped one of Southern California’s most treasured communities. Curated from the remarkable archives of the La Jolla Historical Society, these images offer a rare glimpse into the evolution of La Jolla through the decades, preserving memories of a village that has balanced elegance, creativity, and coastal charm for over a century. Each photograph tells a story of its own, connecting today’s La Jolla to the generations who helped define its character. These and many more iconic images of La Jolla are available through the La Jolla Historical Society archives. 1. Girard Ave 1940’s 2. La Jolla Country Club 3. UC San Diego – 1960’s 4. Hotel Del Charro - 1948 5. “Red Devil” San Diego and La Jolla Motor Car 6. Second Bath House at the Cove - 1912 7. Original Scripps Hospital – 1960’s 8. Hotel Cabrillo - 1912

2 3

5 6

9. Harry Coffee Shop - 1969 10. Marine Room from their original entrance - 1941 11. Stevenson’s Department Store Corner of Girard & Wall St. - 1952 12. La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club – Court 1 13. Deadman’s Cliff at the Cove 14. La Jolla Shores Hotel - 1950 15. University of California Biological Station La Jolla, overlooking the Shores 28

12 13

9 10

18 19

16. La Jolla Beach & Yacht Club - 1929 17. Torrey Pines Lodge - 1923 18. “White Lady Cave” - 1947 19. The Beginning of Bird Rock

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CORNER MERCANTILE & EATERY

How The Corner Became a La Jolla Gathering Place

In a community as picturesque as La Jolla, it takes something truly special for a neighborhood café and market to feel woven into the fabric of daily life. Yet that is exactly what happened with The Corner Mercantile & Eatery, the charming gathering spot at the entrance to La Jolla Shores where locals stop for morning coffee, beachgoers linger over lunch or dinner, and all visitors instantly feel like regulars.

Friends often describe Lisa as someone who naturally gathers people together. She possesses the rare ability to remember names, favorite orders, and life stories, transforming casual customers into loyal regulars. Over the years, she refined not only the mechanics of hospitality, but the emotional side of it— understanding that people return to restaurants because of how a place makes them feel. When Lisa discovered the corner location in La Jolla Shores, she immediately recognized its potential. Surrounded by ocean breezes, neighborhood homes, and the laid-back energy of the beach community, the site embodied everything she loved about Southern California living. Rather than create a formal dining destination, she imagined something more organic— a place where surfers could stop in after sunrise sessions, families could gather after beach days, and neighbors could effortlessly cross paths. That vision became The Corner Mercantile & Eatery.

“

It’s the food, yes— but just as much the friendship and conversation that fill the room.

“

What makes The Corner so distinctive is not simply its Chef driven menu or the market shelves, but the story behind Lisa Kennedy and her team who have brought it to life. For Lisa, it was never framed as a grand ambition or a business strategy. It was something quieter, more certain— something that “simply needed to be done.” Long before The Corner opened its doors, Lisa had spent years immersed in the restaurant world. She understood the subtle art of creating spaces people never want to leave. While some restaurateurs focus solely on operations, Lisa always focused on atmosphere— the feeling guests carry with them long after a meal. She developed a reputation for building welcoming environments where service felt personal rather than transactional. She believed neighborhood restaurants should function as extensions of the community itself, places where conversations flow as easily over a cup of coffee or glass of wine and where guests feel known the moment they walk in.

Established in 2019, the concept blended a chef-driven menu with Lisa’s gift for hospitality. Market shelves filled with curated wines, craft beers, artisanal products, and global finds complemented with an inventive café fare for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Every detail reflects the community-oriented concept. Before long, The Corner became part of the daily rhythm of La Jolla Shores itself. Each morning, locals begin filtering through the doors for breakfast specials and conversation. A retired professor settles into the same patio seat with a fresh baked pastry and a newspaper. A group of cyclists arrives after coastal rides, laughing over the lunch special of the day while planning the next weekend’s route. Some guests come for the food— the carefully crafted menu, warm pastries, and fresh seasonal daily specials. Others come just as much for Lisa’s welcoming smile and easy conversation. Many come for both. On any given day, strangers become acquainted over neighboring tables while longtime regulars catch up on local news, travel stories, and family milestones. It’s the food, yes— but just as much the friendship and conversation that fill the room.

Over time, customers stopped thinking of The Corner as simply a café and market. It became their gathering place— a spot where life in the neighborhood naturally unfolds. Today, The Corner feels less like a business and more like an extension of Lisa and her team. Guests arrive for the food, but they return for the atmosphere that has been created– relaxed, welcoming, and quietly magical. In one of the world’s most treasured coastal communities, she managed to create a corner for all to enjoy— something that, for her, was never optional. It was simply something that needed to be done for the community. 33

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LA JOLLITA

A New Rhythm in La Jolla:

Julio Ramírez on Music, Community, and La Jollita WRITTEN BY PATRICIA AYALA

Courtesy of Reik 42

Courtesy of Manuel Vera

Courtesy of La Jollita

“

There’s a real sense of community here. People know each other. There’s warmth to everyday life.

“

o generations of Latin music fans, Julio Ramírez is recognized as one of the creative minds behind Reik, the internationally celebrated group whose music has defined romantic pop for more than two decades. Yet away from sold-out arenas and international tours, Julio has found something equally meaningful along the coast of La Jolla— a sense of home. Warm, thoughtful, and effortlessly approachable, Julio speaks about La Jolla not as a celebrity retreat, but as a community that genuinely shaped this chapter of his life. Originally from Mexicali, Mexico, the musician spent years in Mexico City during Reik’s meteoric rise before eventually settling in San Diego with his wife Erika Batiz and children nearly a decade ago.

What drew him in was not only the beauty of the coastline, but the lifestyle itself— refined yet relaxed, vibrant yet intimate. “There’s a real sense of community here,” Julio shares. “People know each other. There’s warmth to everyday life.” His days often begin with school drop-offs, a tennis match under the Southern California sun, or quiet moments writing music at home surrounded by guitars and a piano. In many ways, La Jolla has become the perfect counterbalance to the energy of international touring— offering space for both creativity and family life. Julio describes the simple pleasures of becoming a regular at neighborhood cafés, where familiar faces greet him by name and 43

conversations feel genuine. Those experiences ultimately inspired the philosophy behind La Jollita, the coastal Mexican seafood restaurant he recently helped bring to Prospect Street. Elegant yet inviting, the restaurant reflects the same spirit Julio admires about La Jolla itself: elevated, welcoming, and deeply connected to community. While this marks his first venture into the restaurant world, Julio approached the project with the same passion and attention to detail that has defined his musical career. Working alongside experienced hospitality partners including Alejandro Angulo, a second-generation restaurateur from Grupo Los Arcos, the acclaimed Mexican restaurant group, he contributed ideas throughout the creative process, from tastings to guest experience, always thinking from the perspective of what would make people want to return. And they have. Only months after opening, La Jollita has already begun establishing itself as one of the area’s most talked-about dining destinations, drawing both locals and visitors with its sophisticated take on Mexican seafood cuisine. Julio’s personal favorites include the tuna tostada, Taco Leo, ceviche, and pescado zarandeado— dishes that blend bold coastal

flavors with refined presentation. Yet for him, the true success of the restaurant lies beyond the menu.“We want people to feel at home here,” he says. “That connection matters.” Despite his global success, Julio remains refreshingly grounded. During conversation, he speaks far more about family, creativity, and gratitude than fame. Even after 21 years with Reik, his enthusiasm for music remains unmistakable. The band continues touring internationally, while Julio himself has quietly begun exploring the possibility of recording music in English— inspired in part by raising his children in Southern California. It is clear that this season of life has brought him a renewed sense of balance. In La Jolla, he has discovered a place where artistry and everyday living coexist beautifully— where mornings at the beach can exist alongside nights performing before thousands. As our conversation ended, Julio reflected on what he hopes people understand about both himself and La Jollita. “We’re here because we truly love this community,” he says. “This place has become part of our lives.” For Julio Ramírez, La Jolla is more than an address. It is where an internationally acclaimed artist chose to slow down, build roots, and create something lasting— not only through music, but through community, hospitality, and heart.

Courtesy of La Jollita

1251 Prospect Street, La Jolla, CA jollita.com

Photo by Manuel Vera

Julio Ramírez and Alejandro Angulo. Courtesy of La Jollita.

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www.gotfredsonlawfirm.com 45

MURALS OF LA JOLLA

colormotion in

the murals of la jolla Written by Patricia Ayala Photos by Philipp Scholz Rittermann

hrough a collection of rotating public murals, La Jolla’s village streets have quietly become a walkable gallery, where contemporary art transforms everyday moments.

The Murals of La Jolla turn a simple walk through the village into an everevolving conversation between art and place.

In La Jolla, art is not confined to galleries. It lives outdoors, woven into the rhythm of daily life and revealed in quiet corners and along sunlit streets. Many residents pass these walls regularly without realizing they are part of a curated public art program. Through Murals of La Jolla, a project of the Athenaeum Music & Arts Library, ordinary façades become intentional works of art, transforming the village into an open-air exhibition shaped by both creativity and community. The project has brought more than a dozen large-scale murals to La Jolla, created by internationally recognized artists whose work can be found in major cities around the world. Each installation is temporary, typically remaining on view for about two years before being replaced. This rotating 46

YOUR FAVORITE COLOR Roy McMakin

NEVER TURN YOUR BACK ON THE OCEAN Jim Isermann

THE DEATH OF PETRONIUS Eleanor Antin

TIME Gabriella Sanchez

BRAIN/CLOUD John Baldessari

PROTOTYPES FOR BILLBOARDS AT A-Z WEST Andrea Zittel 48

THE SCRIPPS GILL LOGGIA Rex Southwick

LOCATION Amy Adler

model is intentional. It keeps the collection dynamic, encourages repeat visits, and allows new artistic voices to continuously reinterpret the village. For residents, this means the landscape itself evolves over time, offering something new even along the most familiar routes. There is no fixed route and no prescribed beginning. The experience unfolds naturally. A turn along Girard Avenue may reveal a bold geometric composition stretching across a façade, while a quieter side street might hold a more introspective work layered with symbolism and texture. These moments of discovery are part of the intention. The murals are not meant to be consumed all at once, but encountered gradually, integrated into the flow of everyday life. Together, they create a continuous dialogue between color, scale, and the built environment. What makes the murals compelling is not only their visual impact, but their ability to shift perspective. They interrupt the familiar in subtle ways, inviting passersby to pause, look up, and engage more intentionally with their surroundings. For locals, they offer a chance to rediscover streets that may otherwise feel routine. A daily walk can

EBONY ON DRAPER AND GIRARD June Edmonds

The Murals are designed to make contemporary art accessible, placing it directly into public space rather thanbehind gallery walls.

AMPERSAND Matt Rich

differently, not just as a destination, but as a place of ongoing creativity. In the end, the Murals of La Jolla are less about individual works and more about what they create together. A living collection. A shared experience. A conversation in color. A reminder that art, like the community around it, is always evolving. Murals of La Jolla 2010 - 2025 book available at muralsoflajolla.com

become something more observant, more curious, more connected. Light becomes part of the experience. Morning reveals clarity and precision, while late afternoon softens the works under golden tones, deepening color and shadow. Even weather plays a role, altering the mood of each piece. The result is a living gallery shaped not only by the artists, but by time, season, and atmosphere. The murals also signal something larger. They represent a commitment to keeping La Jolla culturally vibrant, supporting public art, and creating a shared visual experience that belongs to everyone. They invite both residents and visitors to see the village 49

TODD LAW

Where the Coast Sets the Price

The Subtle Power Driving La Jolla Commercial Real Estate The La Jolla commercial real estate story is unique, but not in a simple or obvious way. On the surface, it can look like a familiar coastal California market story of rising prices and limited space. But beneath that headline are more subtle forces at work—tight ownership patterns, long holding periods, selective buyer pools, and a level of lifestyledriven demand that doesn’t behave like a typical investment market.

hese nuances matter because they help explain why pricing in La Jolla continues to rise even as transaction volume slows and why small changes in availability can have outsized impacts on value. That becomes especially clear in the Bird Rock corridor along La Jolla Boulevard. Over a 14-month period, three comparable commercial sales showed a sharp increase in pricing. A property that sold for $577 per square foot was followed by another at $632 per square foot, and most recently, a sale at $880 per square foot. That final sale now represents the highest price per square foot ever recorded in the corridor.

The record-setting $880-per-square-foot transaction at 5490 La Jolla Boulevard was represented by Todd Law of Capital Growth Properties, Inc., who has worked in the La Jolla market for more than 25 years. “This market doesn’t move in big waves—it moves in steps, and each step tends to stay,” Law said. He adds another way to think about it: “In most markets, buyers wait for prices to come down. In La Jolla, buyers wait for something to become available at all.” That scarcity helps explain why La Jolla consistently trades at a premium compared to the rest of San Diego. According to data from CoStar Group, recent commercial properties in La Jolla have averaged about $611 per square foot. That compares to roughly $413 in Pacific Beach, $284 in Little Italy, and $231 downtown. In simple terms, investors are paying significantly more to own in La Jolla than in other nearby neighborhoods. Law summarizes the difference this way: “You’re not just buying square footage—you’re buying location that can’t be duplicated.”

“

You’re not just buying square footage—you’re buying location that can’t be duplicated.

“

At the same time prices have risen, the number of sales has gone down. In 2024, La Jolla saw 22 commercial sales totaling about $199 million. In 2025, that dropped to 16 sales totaling $76 million. Law sees this as an important signal for investors: “When volume drops, but prices rise, it usually means owners are holding on tightly and only selling when they absolutely have to.” For newer investors, this can feel counterintuitive. In many markets, fewer sales might suggest weakness. In La Jolla, it often signals the opposite. “It’s not that demand is gone,” Law said. “It’s that supply is locked up.” That demand is also visible in leasing activity. New restaurant and retail tenants continue to enter the market despite rising rents. Recent leases in La Jolla have averaged around $4.37 per square foot, significantly above the county average of $2.60. Among the newest additions are SHIO, a Japanese dining concept planned for 2259 Avenida de la Playa in La Jolla Shores, and Mavi, a new concept from the team behind Mimoza, headed to 7536 Fay Avenue in the heart of The Village of La Jolla. Both leases were also represented by Law, reinforcing his long-standing involvement in some of the community’s most active commercial transactions. “These operators understand what La Jolla represents,” Law said. “They’re willing to pay more because they know the customer base, the visibility, and the long-term value are here.”

For investors, Law offers a straightforward takeaway: “In La Jolla, rent growth and property value are tied to lifestyle demand. People want to be here, and businesses follow them.” Another key metric is how quickly properties sell. The average time on market has dropped to under six months. Law interprets this as a sign of urgency among buyers: “When something good comes up, it doesn’t sit around waiting for a better offer. It gets absorbed.” Looking ahead, brokers expect continued limited inventory with selective new listings in Bird Rock and the Village of La Jolla during 2026. While that may create more opportunities for buyers, Law cautions against expecting major price relief. His final way of explaining the market is simple: “La Jolla is not a timing market. It’s an ownership market. If you’re waiting for a discount, you’re usually waiting on the sidelines.” For investors, the message is clear. Prices in La Jolla are not just reflecting short-term trends—they are reflecting long-term demand for one of Southern California’s most desirable coastal communities, where both businesses and individuals continue to compete for a limited number of irreplaceable locations. 51

LA JOLLA WINERY

The La Jolla Winery Story A Cooperative Built on Friendship and Hard Work

n 2008, a group of wine enthusiasts in La Jolla started something that was never meant to be formal, commercial, or even particularly serious at the beginning. It started simply: friends who loved wine deciding to make it together. Over time, that shared hobby evolved into something far more committed. With the guidance of their fearless leader, Rob Hixson, the group—lawyers, doctors, real estate executives, and neighbors who might otherwise have never crossed professional paths— began building a cooperative winery rooted in shared labor, shared learning, and shared enjoyment. By 2013, the group took a defining step. They began leasing a hidden vineyard tucked into the hills of North San Diego County, a quiet stretch of land where they could finally bring the entire winemaking process under their own care. The vineyard became home to Zinfandel, Sangiovese, and Petite Syrah grapes, and it became the center of their shared world. What made the La Jolla Winery different was not just what they produced, but how they produced it. Every member of the cooperative participated in the vineyard’s life cycle. Under Rob Hixson’s leadership, the group worked the land themselves—weeded, pruned, fertilized, thinned vines, tied canes, managed clusters, and installed and removed protective nets. Harvest wasn’t an outsourced event or a brief visit—it was the culmination of months of shared effort, sweat equity, and constant attention to detail. The vineyard days became a tradition of their own. Work in the rows was followed by laughter, conversation, and a potluck picnic beneath a pepper tree, where bottles from past vintages were opened and shared. The wine, as many in the group often said, tasted different because everyone knew exactly what had gone into it. Once harvested, the grapes were brought to the historic Bernardo Winery, one of California’s oldest continuously operating wineries, founded in 1889 on what was once part of a Spanish land grant. There, winery owner Ross Rizzo guided the cooperative through the next stage of the process—fermentation, aging, and bottling—helping translate their vineyard work into finished wines. 52

Over time, the La Jolla Winery developed its own identity and portfolio, producing wines such as Nautilus, Sangiovese, Castellana, Petite Sirah, and Rosé. While none of the wines were ever produced for commercial sale, they became deeply meaningful to the group, shared among families, friends, and gathered under that same pepper tree where so many vineyard days had ended. And the quality spoke for itself. Across multiple vintages, the wines earned recognition at major competitions, including the San Diego County Fair, Los Angeles competitions, and the Orange County Fair.

• California State Fair: Rosé 2023 won Double Gold • San Diego County Fair: Rosé 2023 named Best Rosé in San Diego (Gold, class and division winner); Gold for Nautilus 2021; Silver for Nautilus 2022, Nautilus 2020, Castellana 2021 • Orange County Fair: Double Gold for Rosé 2023 and Nautilus 2022; Silver for Castellana 2022

These accolades added to a growing legacy that had been building for years. Earlier vintages had already established the winery’s reputation: In 2021, the San Diego County Fair awarded Gold Medals to 2021 Sangiovese, 2021 Nautilus, 2020 Sangiovese, and 2018 Delfino, along with multiple Silver and Bronze medals across Petite Sirah, Zinfandel, Castellana, and Nautilus vintages. In 2016, the cooperative reached a milestone that surprised even its members: Best Wine in the Fair—recognized as the #1 wine in the county—along with Best Red Wine, Best Sangiovese, and Best Estate Wine (Grown & made in San Diego). That year also brought Gold for 2014 Petite Sirah and additional Silver medals across several varietals, including Zinfandel, Castellana, Nautilus, and Petite Sirah. But for all the awards, the cooperative never lost sight of what made it meaningful.

“

It is memory in a bottle—made slowly, deliberately, and together.

“

IN 2023 ALONE, THE COOPERATIVE CELEBRATED A REMARKABLE YEAR OF AWARDS:

This was not a winery built for distribution or scale. It was built for participation. For shared work. For the simple but rare satisfaction of creating something together that none of them could have created alone. Rob Hixson often framed it in practical terms: the vineyard was the classroom, the work was the lesson, and the wine was the result. And for the group of La Jollans who return year after year to prune, harvest, and gather under the pepper tree, that result is more than wine.It is memory in a bottle—made slowly, deliberately, and together.

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THE JEWEL BALL

The Jewel Ball Countdown Begins as Las Patronas Brings the Magic to Life

ith August fast approaching, anticipation is beginning to build across La Jolla as Las Patronas members move into the final stretch of preparations for this year’s Jewel Ball. While guests will eventually experience only a single dazzling evening, behind the scenes, the countdown has already become very real. Inside the Las Patronas decoration workshop, the pace has noticeably accelerated in recent weeks. What started months ago as sketches, fabric samples, and design concepts is now taking physical shape as crews of volunteers work steadily to bring this year’s elaborate vision to life. Massive painted panels lean against warehouse walls, tables overflow with carefully organized décor elements, and partially completed installations hint at the dramatic transformation still to come. For longtime La Jollans familiar with the Jewel Ball tradition, the scale of the undertaking is always impressive. Entire environments are essentially constructed from scratch— themed entrances, custom backdrops, intricate centerpieces, lighting effects, and architectural details designed to completely transport guests the moment they walk through the doors. As the event draws closer, workshop evenings have become increasingly busy. Volunteers gather after work to paint, build, sew, assemble, and refine countless decorative pieces that will eventually come together during the final installation days

LA JOLLA’S GO TO SPOT GROCERY STORE | RESTAURANT | BOUTIQUE

WINE, BEER & SELTZERS BY THE GLASS & BOTTLE HOUSE MADE BAKED GOODS, SALADS, SOUPS & MORE INDOOR & OUTDOOR SEATING OFF & ON SITE CATERING WEEKLY THEMED DINNERS @ 6PM

GREETING CARDS WOMENS CLOTHING MENS SHIRTS CUSTOM JEWELRY BAGS & PURSES GIFTS FOR EVERY OCCASION HOME ACCESSORIES MAIL BOX RENTALS

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But those familiar with Las Patronas know the magic of the evening is built through months of volunteer dedication, artistry, and meticulous preparation.

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leading up to the Ball. The atmosphere is a blend of creativity, teamwork, and controlled chaos — a tradition in itself for many longtime members. What makes the Jewel Ball so remarkable is that much of this effort remains unseen by the hundreds of guests who attend each year. By the time August arrives, every prop, floral detail, and shimmering visual element will appear perfectly effortless. But those familiar with Las Patronas know the magic of the evening is built through months of volunteer dedication, artistry, and meticulous preparation. Now, with the countdown officially underway, excitement is building for what promises to be another unforgettable Jewel Ball season in San Diego. 58

5702 La Jolla Blvd, Suite 101 La Jolla, CA 92037 (858) 291-8845 info@pedegolajolla.com

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Sigi’s Boutique 7888 Girard Ave, La Jolla, CA 92037 www.sigislajolla.com (858) 454-7244 store@sigisla jolla.com

South Coast Plaza 3333 Bristol Street, Costa Mesa, CA, 92626 www.southcoastplaza.com +1 (800) 782-8888 info@southcoastplaza.com @southcoastplaza

Stanley Dean Construction 9929 Hibert Street, Suite D, San Diego, CA. 92121 www.constructionsd.com (858) 433-7253 info@constructionsd.com @stanleydeanconstruction

The Chateau 233 Prospect Street, La Jolla, CA 92037 www.chateaulajolla.com (858) 459-4451 @chateau_la_jolla

The Daniels Group 1111 Prospect St #100, La Jolla, CA 92037 www.thedanielsgroup.com (858) 361-5561 Team@TheDanielsGroup.com @thedanielsgroup

Whittier Trust 12770 El Camino Real, Ste 120, San Diego, CA 92130

www.whittiertrust.com (858) 394-1005 contact_us@whittiertrust.com 61

Supporting Those Who Support Our Community

Appleby Family Group

www.applebyfamilygroup.com (858) 204-7920

This special section of our directory is dedicated to showcasing our Premier Advertisers—businesses that have made a significant commitment to supporting this magazine and the community we proudly serve.

Their partnership helps make every issue possible while connecting our readers with some of the area’s most trusted and respected companies.

Belmont Village

www.belmontvillage.com/LaJolla (858) 304-2890

We encourage you to explore their offerings, learn more about their services, and support the businesses that so generously support local journalism, storytelling, and community engagement. When you choose our Premier Advertisers, you’re supporting the partners who help keep this publication thriving.

Bowers Jewelers

www.bowersjewelersoflajolla.com (858) 459-3678 62

Convenience of all services in one office!

All-on-4 Laser Snore Therapy Cosmetic Services Implants & Extractions

Brunello Cucinelli

Some Medicare Plans Excepted!

BOOK NOW! (858) 452–1504 www.drmariemoeckel.com ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS!

FINE WOMEN’S APPAREL, ACCESSORIES & GIFTS Voted La Jolla’s Best Women’s Boutique 7888 Girard Ave, La Jolla, CA 92037 (858) 454-7244 | sigislajolla.com Open Monday - Saturday 9:30 am to 5:00 pm & Sunday 11:00 am to 5:00 pm

Corner Merchantile

Gotfredson Law Firm

Greenspan Group

Johnny Noris Real Estate

www.thecornerlajolla.com (858) 246-6294

www.greenspangroup.com (619) 972-5060

Greg Noonan & Associates www.lajollahomes.com (858) 551-3302 64

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Growth takes time. Preservation takes discipline. Through intentional estate planning and disciplined investment management, we help you protect what you’ve built so it lasts well beyond you.

Investment Management & Consulting | Trust Services Family Office | Philanthropy & Family Continuity | Real Estate CONTACT

Dean Byrne

(775) 337-7307

whittiertrust.com

Whittier Trust generally requires a minimum of $15 million in marketable securities for new client relationships. Investment and Wealth Management Services are provided by Whittier Trust Company and The Whittier Trust Company of Nevada, Inc. (referred to herein individually and collectively as “Whittier Trust”), state-chartered trust companies wholly owned by Whittier Holdings, Inc. (“WHI”), a closely held holding company. This document is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended, and should not be construed, as investment, tax or legal advice. Past performance is no guarantee of future results and no investment or financial planning 68strategy can guarantee profit or protection against losses. All names, characters, and incidents, except for certain incidental references, are fictitious. Any resemblance to real persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental.