CVLUX MAR | APR 2021

MAR | APR

SPRING

FASHION AWAKENING

ECO SAVVY BEAUTY SKIN'S

SECRET WEAPON

LIBBY BOYCE

LIVING SELFLESSLY

2021

LUXURY AWARDS

THE WINNER’S CIRCLE

NEW MUSE

MELISSA WILLIAMS

SISTER ACT

VANESSA & LAURA MARANO

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SCEPTRE & SASH IS INDEPENDENT OFOF ANY BRAND AFFILIATION. ITEMS ARE PRE-OWNED AND/OR VINTAGE. LICENSE #000000780 SCEPTRE & SASH IS INDEPENDENT ANY BRAND AFFILIATION. ITEMS ARE PRE-OWNED AND/OR VINTAGE. LICENSE #000000780

Living the luxe life Imagine stocking up on the freshest new fashions, meeting up with friends, then savoring a delicious lunch (with signature margaritas) at Papi’s Mex Grill. Is a lifetime of Saturday shopping sprees at Riverwalk your style?

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L U X U R Y · A W A R D S

2 0 2 1 · W I N N E R

Tour the Model Homes www.RiverstoneCA.com @LifeAtRiverstoneCA From Fresno, go north on Highway 41, turn left at Avenue 12 and follow the signs. ©2021 Riverstone Development, LLC. Obtain a copy of the Public Report as required by Federal law and/or the Public Report issued by the California Bureau of Real Estate and read them before signing any documents. No Federal or State agency has judged the merits or value, if any, of this property. This advertisement is not a solicitation to purchase or sell property in any state where prohibited by law. The stylized R logo is a service mark of Riverstone Development, LLC. Riverstone and Riverstone Development are trade names of Riverstone Development, LLC. The San Joaquin River and River Park are located approximately six miles from Riverstone. *Future amenity coming soon.

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Contents LUX life

In Every Issue EDITOR'S NOTE ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 10 WELCOME TO THE ISSUE ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 12 MASTHEAD ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... .. .. .. ... ... ... ... 14 CONTRIBUTORS ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... .. .. .. ... ... 16

Departments 2021 LUXURY AWARDS ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 21 IN LIBBY’S WORDS ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 43 ALL GROWN UP ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 48 Cover Story SCULPTED FASHION ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 56 DOUBLE TAKE ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 62 THE POWER OF ADAPTATION ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 66 A CLOSER LOOK ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 70 Probiotic Skincare ECO CHIC ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 72

72

Interviewing Vanessa & Laura For the MAR | APR Edition, CVLUX features sisters Vanessa and Laura Marano for the LUX life Issue.

MAR | APR

62

PHOTOGRAPHER JOSH WILLIAMS STYLIST JENNY DAYCO HAIR & MAKEUP VALERIE NOBLE ASSISTANT DEAN BAIS

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MAR | APR

Editor's Note LUX life

PHOTOGRAPHER JOSH WILLIAMS STYLIST JENNY DAYCO HAIR & MAKEUP VALERIE NOBLE ASSISTANT DEAN BAIS

New Beginnings

I

t is safe to say, we are all looking for a fresh perspective. Spring brings new optimism and a sense of renewed purpose. The trajectory of our daily lives seems to be less bleak, and more alive, as we start this next chapter of healing. Many of us feel robbed of our normal routines and annual rituals, but the sacrifices we have each made have contributed to the eventual resurrection of normalcy.

Much like the vibrant colors of blooming blossoms, we are all beginning to reemerge and reconnect with our friends and loved ones. As we look forward to our future, we'll inevitably reimagine our roadmaps, which we have so carefully crafted. Some of us will choose to remain on the path, while others will shake off this long winter slumber to seek new and exciting experiences. Whatever the future holds, we will all have this time to reflect on, bond over, and acknowledge the lessons we have each learned along the way.

Humanity is omnipresent, a refreshing change from such a tumultuous, unpredictable year. Let us all rejoice in our shared experiences and show kindness and love to one another. Here’s to new beginnings.

Cheers,

David

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Welcome to the Issue LUX life

Spring Awakening Media mogul sisters Vanessa and Laura Marano grace the cover and chat about being all grown up in the film industry, how they are now transitioning from acting into the producer’s chair, and what is next for the dynamic duo in this LUX life Issue (page 48). The 2021 Luxury Awards winners are unveiled—celebrate them with the accolades they command (page 21). Philanthropist Libby Boyce opens up about her work as head of The Cameron Boyce Foundation, and what it means to her to be carrying on her actor son’s legacy of selflessness (page 43). Gardening clothes get totally redefined with sculpted fashion set in an ethereal setting, transporting readers to a whimsical world (page 56). Actress Melissa Williams chats about being Tyler Perry’s “new muse” while simultaneously starring in two hit shows of his creation (page 62). Harness the power of adaptation by learning how to identify needs and implement, maintain, and adapt new, beneficial habits (page 66). A lesson on probiotic skincare will leave you examining your daily routine with a closer look (page 70).

With a vast array of environmentally conscious beauty products, you’ll be set to refresh your palette as spring beckons new growth from the inside out (page 72).

Garden Glory

Spring ushers in a sense of opportunity—it is a time of rebirth, regrowth, and renewed spirit. After a year of social distancing restrictions, we have found ways to appreciate the little luxuries in life through new eyes. May we cherish this refreshed outlook as we face this season of new life together.

PRODUCER LORRI PETRONE O’BRIEN PHOTOGRAPHER NATASHA KERTES PHOTOGRAPHY ASSISTANT JASMINE KERTES MODEL DOLLY O’BRIEN FASHION COUTURE EMA SAVAHL COUTURE LOCATION VIZCAYA MUSEUM & GARDENS, MIAMI, FLORIDA

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MAR | APR

C A L I F O R N I A · V I B E

DAVID MANNING Editor in Chief, Partner

DONNA ENSOM Creative Director, Partner

EDITORIAL Managing Editor LAUREN BARISIC Fashion Editor ALMA WOLVERTON Beauty Editor JESSICA MCCAFFERTY Health & Fitness Editor DINA JUVE Interiors Editor ERIN MELKONIAN Décor Stylist OLIVIA SCHMITZ Features Contributor ELISABETH ROSS ART Design Director PHENG MOUA Contributing Photographers BEN COPE, ROWAN DALY, DON DIZON RANDY HARON, THERESA JEBIAN, NATASHA KERTES, ELLIE KOLEEN and JOSH WILLIAMS BUSINESS Regional Marketing Director CAROL DEFENDIS Account Executive JACQUELINE ISEMAN Accounting Director DEE ANN LINKER Legal Counsel GONTORWON BORH Please submit all advertising inquires to donna@cvlux.com.

Letters To The Editor: We want to hear from you. Please submit letters to: CVLUX, 7797 N. First St. #172, Fresno CA, 93720 or e-mail to information@cvlux.com. Letters must be signed and deemed appropriate for our readership to be considered for publishing. Letters are subject to editing and may be cut for length.

Story Queries: Are you a writer? Please send story queries to lauren@cvlux.com. Please allow six to eight weeks for a response. CVLUX is not responsible for unsolicited material.

CVLUX is published bi-monthly by Modern Living Publishing LLC, 7797 N. First St. #172, Fresno CA, 93720. Copyright 2014 by Modern Living Publishing LLC. All rights reserved.

Every effort has been made to ensure the information within this publication is complete and accurate at the time of publication. CVLUX does not warrant such accuracy or the claims of its advertisers. All materials, articles, reports, original artwork, and photos published in this magazine are the property of Modern Living Publishing LLC and cannot be used or reproduced without permission in writing. Modern Living Publishing LLC is not responsible for the opinions expressed within the publication. Prices quoted in advertisements are subject to change without notice.

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MAR | APR

Contributors LUX life

Alma Wolverton Fashion Editor

Alma is an editorial stylist, closet editor, personal shopper, image consultant, and boutique owner, based in California’s San Joaquin Valley. A small-town girl, she was raised with an impeccable work ethic and determination to achieve her dreams. Today, Alma owns and operates Pum Bum Society in Fresno, where she takes enormous pride in bringing the latest and most exclusive looks, brands, and trends, that both celebrities and fashion experts alike are wearing, to the Central Valley.

Dina Juve

Erin Melkonian

Dina has been in health and fitness for over twenty years. Her health and wellness brand and methods utilize a mind, body, and soul approach to physical health, allowing her to help her clients create the bodies and lives they desire. Though based in California’s Central Valley, she is globally known as a fitness guru, transformation expert, weight loss specialist, and meditation teacher, and she has also worked with dozens of high-profile clients and celebrities across the world.

Erin runs a collaborative design firm, EMID Design Group, specializing in healthcare, hospitality, and residential interior design, in Fresno, California. Seeing the world through an artistic lens has allowed Erin to experiment in a number of different styles.

Everything she does with a space is deliberate. Every piece has a purpose and has been thought about (from color, to position, to scale) in order to create the most unique and personal spaces for her clients.

Health & Fitness Editor

Interiors Editor

L U X U R Y · A W A R D S

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Luxury Awards L U X U R Y · A W A R D S

C VLU X i s plea sed t o a nn o u nc e th e 2 02 1 L u xu ry Awa rd s wi n ne r s .

Our sinc erest t ha nks go ou t t o a l l t h e s l a te d s po ns o rs a n d pa r t n er s who mak e t he L uxur y Awards th e Cen tr a l Val l ey ’s m os t a nt i c i pa t e d e vent of t he yea r. Than k y ou to ou r me di a s pon s or, A B C3 0 , w hos e par tner ship a nd co nti nu e d s u p por t me an s t h e w or l d t o u s . To al l t h e first resp onders, ser v i ce pe r s on n el , a nd me d ic al p ro f e s s io na l s , w h o hav e so sel fl essly pu t t h e ir l i ve s o n th e l i ne , we e xpre s s ou r ssiincerest nce ap preci at ion— ou r com m un i ty is a bet t er p l ace be cau s e of the heroes we hav e i n you . C he er s t o th i s ye ar ’s wi nn e rs ! We w i s h yo u, and al l of t he nom in e e s , goo d f o rt un e in th i s c om i ng y ea r.

For a ddi t io nal inf or ma t io n re gardi n g th e pos t pon e me n t of t h e 2021 Luxur y Awards, pl e a s e co nt a ct i n f o r ma ti o n@c vl u x. com.

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Winner's Circle L U X U R Y · A W A R D S

LUXURY award Winners

HOSPITAL CLOVIS COMMUNITY MEDICAL CENTER

COSMETIC/PLASTIC SURGEON MARK CHIN, MD, MPH Valley Institute of Plastic Surgery

DERMATOLOGIST JANE F. KARDASHIAN, MD Golden State Dermatology

MEDICAL SPA KISS ME MED SPA

SALON + SPA PREEN A BOUTIQUE SALON

COSMETIC DENTIST SAM NAMDARIAN, DMD Fresno Smile Makeovers

DEALERSHIP HARON JAGUAR

SHOPPING CENTER RIVER PARK

JEWELER ORLOFF JEWELERS

BOUTIQUE SCEPTRE & SASH AUTHENTIC LUXURY

Thank You, Fresno!

YOUR #1 JEWELER FOR ENGAGEMENT RINGS & WEDDING BANDS NATURAL DIAMONDS AND LAB GROWN DIAMONDS.

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LUXURY award Winners

FINE GIFTS + DÉCOR JUDE’S

HOME FURNISHINGS NOBLE HOUSE DESIGN

COMMUNITY RIVERSTONE DEVELOPMENT

BUILDER MCCAFFREY HOMES

MORTGAGE LENDER LISA FLORES Homebridge

REALTOR LAURA MATHER The Mather Method

CASINO CHUKCHANSI GOLD RESORT & CASINO

BAR MODERNIST CRAFT COCKTAIL BAR

DINING FIVE

HIDDEN GEM THE PALATINE BUILDING

L U X U R Y · A W A R D S

L U X U R Y · A W A R D S

2 0 2 1 · W I N N E R

MCCAFFREY HOMES BEST BUILDER 2018, 2019, 2020 & 2021

6175 N. Fresno St, Suite 101, Fresno, CA 93710 | 559.435.9646 | www.markchinmd.com

1528 E. CHAMPLAIN DR. STE. 103 FRESNO, CA • 559.434.4589 • WWW.SCEPTREANDSASH.COM N.E. CORNER OF CEDAR AND SHEPHERD, NEAR YOSEMITE RANCH RESTAURANT

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US

BEST BOUTIQUE

2021

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Thank You! We are thrilled and honored to be voted 2021 “Best Salon and Spa” by the community that surrounds us.

Thank you for sharing the love.

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2 0 2 1 · W I N N E R

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Thank you for voting for us as BEST DERMATOLOGIST!

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We’re honored to continue providing the highest-level of medical and cosmetic dermatology care to our community and to welcome Kent Saunders, MD to the practice.

Jane Kardashian, MD

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Dr. Kardashian offers cutting-edge treatments for acne and rosacea, eczema, psoriasis, skin cancer, and more. In addition, she’s skilled in Mohs surgery and laser procedures.

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In Libby’s

WORDS

Features Contributor Elisabeth Ross Photographer Ben Cope Stylist Veronica Graye Hair J Michael for Celestine Agency Makeup Cat Sherwin

B

y living their lives philanthropically, Libby and Victor Boyce instilled a heart for others in their two children, Cameron and Maya. The life of actor Cameron Boyce was cut short by Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP). His legacy lives on through The Cameron Boyce Foundation (TCBF), founded in Los Angeles in 2019. TCBF is known for its support of organizations affiliated with epilepsy, social betterment, and the arts. In particular, TCBF has been involved with Citizens United for Research in Epilepsy (CURE), Thirst Project, Inner-City Arts, Guitars Over Guns, and The Actors Fund. Spearheaded by his mother Libby, close to $200,000 has been cumulatively donated through TCBF to date. Aside from her work with the Foundation, Libby is also a social worker for the City of Los Angeles, where she works with the homeless. Walking the talk is the essence of who she is—emulating her example is a lesson in compassion, empathy, and humanity for all.

ER Both you and your husband have family histories of being socially active and immersed.

Why is it essential to impart a legacy of overcoming struggle to future generations?

LB Victor and I both descend from ancestors that had significant struggles in the recent and distant past. It is important to remember that we stand on their shoulders and we should be extremely grateful to them for their sacrifices.

This has made our family very active in helping others and paying it forward. There is nothing greater, or more rewarding, than being able to change people’s lives for the positive, or to give someone the gift of happiness and joy.

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There is nothing greater, or more rewarding, than being able to change people’s lives for the positive, or to give someone the gift of happiness and joy.

ER Your family dynamic seems to greatly value walking the talk.

How can we better teach an appreciation for diversity and giving back in our children?

LB Kindness and thoughtfulness towards others is a lifestyle. I think immersing kids in diversity is critical to promoting acceptance, tolerance, and fellowship. This makes them sensitive to all people: young, old, gay, straight, non-binary, people who have physical challenges, people who are sick or who are the underdog. It then becomes just part of the fabric of who they are. It is not hard to smile and to choose positivity. Let’s face it, one day, maybe decades from now, we will all be mixed, and we will all be better for it. Empathy is key to a fulfilling life.

ER Share the process that led you and your husband to establish The Cameron Boyce Foundation in relation to it being an extension of Cameron’s personal and charitable projects.

LB When Cameron passed away, we immediately thought that we had to carry on his legacy and all the work he was doing. It was honestly a knee-jerk reaction to the village that surrounded us on that first night. Within hours, we had created the foundation. We couldn’t just let him die, and that be it. It has given us a way to honor him, carry on some of his charitable work, and to move the needle in epilepsy awareness and research. We could never in a million years fill his shoes, but we try to remember that we are now his voice.

ER What is the common thread running through the organizations that TCBF becomes involved with?

LB The common thread is what took Cameron’s life and what he was most passionate about. Epilepsy awareness and research is at our core. Next is giving young people alternatives to negativity and violence, thus our focus on programs that reduce gun violence or provide young people with creative outlets. Lastly, Cameron was an advocate for clean drinking water in third world countries, so TCBF will continue to support the Thirst Project to that end.

ER How does the role of social media influence TCBF’s causes?

What evolution have you experienced with social media use since establishing TCBF? LB Cameron had many fans who followed him on social media.

Because of this, he was very thoughtful and responsible about everything he posted. With TCBF, we are also thoughtful about posting positive messages to his fans and loved ones. We also feel that it is important to share messages that provide compelling information or that provide a point of view in the spirit of inclusivity and positivity. Since the inception of TCBF, we certainly have more

followers and we have increased our informational content as we learn more about epilepsy. It has been so surprising to us how many people know others with epilepsy, but yet know so little about the disease. We hope to change that narrative.

ER Tell us about your role on TCBF’s Board of Directors, as well as your process of establishing the Board and selecting Advisory Board members.

LB I am the President and Victor is the Vice President of TCBF. We brought on people who were close to Cameron and those extremely moved by his death. His best friends have been instrumental in all of our youth content, social media, merchandise, and programs, while Vic and I focus mostly on epilepsy. Cameron’s publicist, whom he was very close to, is a board member, as well as his aunt Kamlyn.

In addition, many of Cameron’s co-stars, as well as Kenny Ortega, Adam Sandler, and Salma Hayek, are on TCBF Advisory Board.

They loved Cameron and wanted to help, so it certainly brings some notoriety and credence to the work of the Foundation.

ER In what ways does your career further inform your work at TCBF? LB Having worked in social services for well over 30 years, I have a lot of experience in the non-profit world, although I have never been responsible for a non-profit. I find my work overseeing homeless programs in Los Angeles County extremely rewarding. I care about others very deeply and love the camaraderie I have with my colleagues and the diversity we each bring to the table. I find the same thing with TCBF. As a team, we are a diverse group and we are extremely close having gone through the trauma of losing Cameron.

This brings a lot of texture to the work we are doing. We all find comfort in the role we each play to honor Cameron’s legacy.

ER Considering that giving back is a key component of happiness, how are philanthropy and wellness linked?

LB None of us could have survived without each other and TCBF. Humans need other humans to thrive. Cameron always said that he preferred to give than to receive because it made him happy to bring other people joy. Why do people who have all the material riches in the world always seem to be empty, and those without material things seem to have so much life and spunk? I think it is because they appreciate what they do have. Cameron was elated interacting with kids who wanted to meet him because he understood what it meant to their lives and he never took that for granted. We can all learn from him.

LAURA DRESS BY KENNETH BARLIS WWW.KENNETHBARLIS.COM EARRINGS FROM CITY OF ANGELS VINTAGE @CITYOFANGELSVINTAGE VANESSA SUIT BY KENNETH BARLIS WWW.KENNETHBARLIS.COM TOP FROM VANESSA'S OWN COLLECTION BROOCH FROM CITY OF ANGELS VINTAGE @CITYOFANGELSVINTAGE RING BY JENNY DAYCO WWW.JENNYDAYCO.COM

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All Grown Up

Managing Editor Lauren Barisic Photographer Josh Williams Stylist Jenny Dayco Hair & Makeup Valerie Noble Assistant Dean Bais

W

hile exceptionally skilled siblings are an uncommon occurrence, the Marano sisters are one such example of famed beauty and brains. Both Vanessa and Laura Marano have made a name for themselves given their skill within the film industry; and although they may look alike, their talents are as diverse as their personalities.

Performing was a familiar world to them from a young age. Their manager and mother Ellen teaches at the Agoura Children’s Theatre in Southern California, where the two began acting even before it was their professional pursuit. “So, I probably started when I was around six,” recalls Vanessa. “We did plays, and then as we got older, we just helped out with the theater. I actually started writing the children’s plays for my mom kinda out of necessity, because there’s only so many times you can do Peter Pan,” she laughs. “I started getting into writing through doing that.” Even after the sisters were on series television, they’d still actively help their mom there on the weekends.

Vanessa repeatedly begged to act professionally as a little girl. But Ellen was concerned about the girls not having a childhood given that the industry is really hard on kids. Plus, there was the copious amount of driving in LA traffic that would obviously be involved, Vanessa acknowledges. In an attempt to kill the acting bug, her mom took her to an agency “that turned down children for no good reason,” she smiles with an understanding that only comes with age. Much to Ellen’s surprise, the agent instead decided to take her on. That wasn’t part of the plan, but what was really not part of the plan was little Laura, also in tow, responding to this news with, “Well, I don’t have an agent,” in the most adorable voice she could muster. “Oh honey, we’ll take you, too!” the agent declared. Vanessa was eight at the time and Laura five.

That first year, they didn’t do anything super theatrical. “Both of our first theatrical job was the same job, which was Without a Trace,” says Vanessa. “But we did commercials.” Laura fondly remembers her first big commercial appearance for JC Penny, where she beat up the boy who played her older brother on set. “We would see him on auditions, and he would be like, ‘Would you please not hit me, Laura?’ I don’t know—I was just a rambunctious child. I’m not sure why!” Laura chuckles. “Vanessa was not at all.”

“I always thought I was the shy one,” discloses Vanessa, which she only believed until being on sets without her little sis around. “I was shocked to learn that apparently I’m very loud and have a lot of energy because I was comparing myself to my younger sister, who, between the two of us, I’m the introvert,” Vanessa sarcastically concedes. Aside from being extra voices in Finding Nemo and recurring roles on Without a Trace, the girls have pretty much done their own thing since the early years.

V

anessa is best known for her performances in two hit television shows: Gilmore Girls, where she played Luke’s daughter April Nardini, and Switched at Birth, in which she co-starred as Bay Kennish. When examining her extensive repertoire of work, it’s evident that she’s been drawn to strong female characters. “I have been very lucky that the films I have been cast in also align with a creative vision that includes a vast amount of multidimensional characters,” Vanessa reveals. “From both an on camera and behind the camera perspective, I hope to create characters and stories that entertain, but also say something more. I look back on to some of my favorite films and TV shows, and I have always been drawn to the world that characters are in, the people the story is about, and the feeling the piece elicits when you watch it.” This past year alone, Vanessa has played in two movies with rather varied genres.

This Is the Year is a heartwarming comingof-age movie featuring a fantastic soundtrack, where Vanessa plays high school girl Molly, who’s vibe was actually loosely inspired by Laura’s confidently care-free spirit. “Molly is actually the first character I ever played who had a high school experience similar to my own. Meaning… she was homeschooled.”

So, even though they were differing in ages when Vanessa played the role, “I felt more connected to her experience than other high school characters I have played in the past.”

How to Deter a Robber premiered on the festival film circuit with favorable reviews for both its comedic thriller storyline and noteworthy acting performances, but Vanessa was drawn to playing the character of Madison Williams for a very different reason.

“Maria Bissell, the writer/director of the film, is a woman after my own heart,” she says, echoing the same mentality that eventually inspired Vanessa and her sister to bring Saving Zoë to the big screen. “She basically took her career into her own hands, wrote the script, found financing, and created an opportunity for herself. I was inspired by her drive. That’s what made me want to do the project.”

Currently in post-production, This Game’s Called Murder is one of the most interesting projects that Vanessa has ever been a part of. “It’s eccentric to say the least. Adam Sherman, the writer/director, created a world that everyone had different opinions about.

You couldn’t put the tone of the film into a box, which is what is so fun about it,” she divulges. “I would describe Jennifer, the character I was given the opportunity to play, as a cross between Norma Desmond and a Disney princess. It was a lot of fun to create that sort of persona and discover who she really was along the way;” not to mention that Disney has been a big part of both girls’ career journeys.

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aura’s role as Young Sarah Silverman on The Sarah Silverman Program gained her substantial recognition, but her breakout role was on Austin & Ally, where she played the co-leading role of Ally Dawson. Many other television and film roles are sprinkled across her résumé, yet one of her most recent performances is made even more impressive given its star-studded cast.

In The War with Grandpa, Laura co-stars alongside Robert De Niro, Uma Thurman,

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Knowing that we wanted to produce more projects ... it felt like the perfect opportunity for us all to continue our growth in the producer space.

Rob Riggle, Oakes Fegley, with Cheech Marin, Jane Seymour, and Christopher Walken. “What an absolute dream cast to work with! The whole experience was so unbelievably surreal. I think I just constantly took in everyone’s different process and way of working, and observing that in itself taught me so much just as an actress. I still can’t believe I got to be a part of that film,” she gushes.

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ince the age of nine, Laura has played piano—music seems to always have had a presence in her career. “Music truly brings me so much happiness. It’s such an incredibly healthy outlet for me in whatever I’m feeling … Being able to transform this outlet for my feelings into something even more meaningful, a way to connect with other people, has also brought me such happiness and made me feel so fulfilled.” In March 2019, Laura’s first EP, ME, was released. “When I decided to start releasing music independently, I knew it was going to be challenging, but I was excited by the creative control I would have,” which led to the EP’s next chapter.

“As soon as I had finished ME, I thought about continuing the stories I told on that EP. I already had a few songs I had written at a similar time as some of the songs on ME, so I started reworking those songs to make them fit the story and style I wanted for my next era of music,” recounts Laura. “From that came my second EP, YOU. The reaction to this EP has been so incredible and validating, and though I’m still constantly working on more music, I still get excited doing streaming parties with my fans or hearing their favorite songs on this EP.” “Something To Believe In” is one of Laura’s biggest hits. In addition to the original track, she has also released stripped down and remixed versions. “I think in general, a lot of artists, including myself, love the idea of reworking songs and giving our listeners different versions for them to enjoy,” offers Laura. With the second EP in general, “I just became obsessed with the idea of storytelling, and how there can be so many different perspectives of the same story. The same is true of a song’s production. At the base of all three of those versions is the same song, told in three completely different ways, which I absolutely love.”

Laura’s musical inclinations were evident even in her IGTV show, for which she wrote the opening jingle. Created at the onset of pandemic shutdowns, she wanted to do something extra special for her fans. Life of Laura, coined LOL, “was centered around the effects of the pandemic,” Laura reflects. “My main objective was to have fun and make sure anyone who was watching was having fun, too … It was something I knew had an expiration date, but I am so glad I did it!” She filmed a bunch of episodes in late April with the intent of launching in June.

“When George Floyd was killed and the protests started happening around the country, my original ‘premiere’ episodes just didn’t feel appropriate, so at first, I just thought I should push back the show. Then, I realized I completely had the wrong perspective.” She decided to use her platform (nearly 10 million Instagram followers strong) to educate and inform her audience. “I knew I actually had the opportunity to bring someone on and use my voice to amplify theirs.” For this reason, Laura instead premiered with a series of conversations with activist Zyahna Bryant. “Afterwards, the content of the majority of the show still was more on the random side,” as she had always wanted it to be an amusing outlet for her fans, “but I am so grateful the first three episodes were about something way more substantial and important.”

The sisters have both nurtured sustained careers, that speak to socially current matters, with much diversity, yet they have known for some time that they wanted to broaden their repertoire even further. “As an actress, you don’t have a lot of creative control, and we were at a point in our career where we were going through some hardships for sure,” recalls Laura. Their mom handed them a stack of books with teenage girls on the cover and said, “If you girls are going to continue to do this, then we should try to take control of our careers, and try to option books.” Alyson Noël’s 2007 book Saving Zoë rose to the top as something special. Alyson was currently watching the season of Gilmore Girls that Vanessa was on at the time they reached out to her, and, all reasoning aside, she trusted the girls with the project in spite of them having no prior producing experience.

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hough Saving Zoë came out in 2019, the film had actually been in the works for years prior. It took the family 10 years to get the movie made, and when they did get the green light, they shot the whole thing in 15 days. “When we first optioned the book, we were a little too young for the characters. By the time we made it, we were definitely a little too old for the characters,” Laura relays as the girls giggle. “But we both loved it so much we had to do it!” The story explores a heavy topic and very real issue that is quietly prevalent even in statistically safe communities: human trafficking. Vanessa and Laura co-star as high school girls Zoë and Echo. Zoë gets caught in a dark world of perverse deception. The film follows Echo as she struggles to cope with her older sister’s murder a year prior. Laura calls it “a love story between two sisters.”

Not only did the girls play the leading roles, they also simultaneously produced the feature alongside their mother. As their entrée into production, it finally gave them a taste of what it was like behind the camera. “On Saving Zoë, Laura and I were both acting and producing

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while my mom was the only one fully in the producing chair… it was a lot to say the least,” Vanessa confesses. “After Saving Zoë, both Laura and I felt strongly that our next producing project would only involve one of us in a starring role. It’s a lot of hats to wear when you are both producing and acting.”

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he production of The Royal Treatment, the sisters’ latest joint venture film, was announced not long ago. A Netflix romance flick, starring Laura alongside Mena Massoud of Aladdin, the film will be produced by Vanessa, Laura, and their mom. “Knowing that we wanted to produce more projects, when this script landed in Laura’s lap, it felt like the perfect opportunity for us all to continue our growth in the producer space,” Vanessa acknowledges.

“Netflix has been such an amazing partner throughout the process, as has Chloe Smith, our producer on the ground in New Zealand,” where the movie was filmed. “It is also really nice to be doing a comedy, considering our first film covered such a heavy topic.”

It’ll be the first project Vanessa has been a part of solely as a producer. “That opportunity in itself excites me. When you grow up in the entertainment industry rooted in one perspective, the ability to pivot to an entirely new perspective is a gift and one that I do not take for granted,” she says with gratitude.

“What is nice for me about The Royal Treatment is that I can fully immerse myself in the producing process and also alleviate some of the pressures from both Laura and my mom.”

This will be the second time Laura acts in and produces the same movie. “Although I do imagine the workload will be slightly less than Saving Zoë—we did that movie on an insanely low budget, I truly just didn’t sleep—there is still quite a lot for me to do on this film, but I am beyond excited and grateful to be working on it! Netflix is literally the dream partner, and Mena is so lovely, so I’ve never felt more thankful!”

It’s easy to see how working with someone who knows you inside and out, backwards and forwards, is a rare gift. Having the opportunity to build upon similar interests is something not lost on either sister. Vanessa and Laura Marano understand that it’s one of those little luxuries with a big impact. With so much potential between the duo, it’ll be exciting to see what the future holds for this exceptionally talented sister act.

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Producer Lorri Petrone O’Brien Photographer Natasha Kertes Photography Assistant Jasmine Kertes Model Dolly O’Brien Fashion Couture Ema Savahl Couture Location Vizcaya Museum & Gardens, Miami, Florida

DRESS BY EMA SAVAHL COUTURE WWW.EMASAVAHL.COM

DRESS BY EMA SAVAHL COUTURE WWW.EMASAVAHL.COM

DRESS BY EMA SAVAHL COUTURE WWW.EMASAVAHL.COM

DRESS BY EMA SAVAHL COUTURE WWW.EMASAVAHL.COM

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Double Take

A Conversation with Melissa Williams Features Contributor Elisabeth Ross Photographer Rowan Daly

You aren’t seeing double—that’s Melissa Williams acting in two television shows simultaneously. The BET+ network star and powerhouse Tyler Perry’s “new muse” can be seen on The Oval, as well as its fan-favorite spinoff series Ruthless, both projects of Perry’s own creation. Starring Melissa, Ruthless (now in its first season) is the riveting story of a woman named Ruth who kidnaps her young daughter to join her in the dark underworld of a fanatical religious cult. The Rakudushis cult and Melissa’s lead character were first introduced in The Oval (whose second season just premiered) in which the actress plays both Ruth and her twin sister Denise—their personalities are polar opposite, perfectly exemplifying the broad scope of Melissa’s skill and look.

Her diverse passions extend beyond the camera—when she’s not shooting both shows concurrently in Atlanta, Melissa is often found volunteering with Young Storytellers (YS), an arts education non-profit that targets Title I schools in Los Angeles, where she fosters the same traits and values that make her such a force to be reckoned with.

ER You’ve been called Tyler Perry’s “new muse,” playing in two of his shows simultaneously. Tell us about how you’ve grown in your career while working with one of the most respected producers in the entertainment industry.

MW You know, I am very fortunate to be called that. But I’m even more fortunate to be able to say that I was offered a role by the first Black man to own the largest production studio in the nation! Tyler Perry is a leader, and I have grown not only as an actress but also as a person since working with him.

ER On The Oval, twins Ruth and Denise Truesdale are polar opposites.

What initially drew you to the twins’ individual characters?

MW This is kinda corny, but I loved the movie The Parent Trap growing up. I was initially drawn to the fact you mentioned—that these twins lived two completely different lives—and I also wanted to take on the challenge of playing two characters on one show.

ER How does Ruth’s character evolve between The Oval and Ruthless, and what were you eager to bring to that evolution?

MW Because The Oval takes place after Ruthless, I would say you would

have to watch the entire first season of Ruthless to understand the full evolution that takes place—from Ruth being misled to her enlightenment, if you will. That season births the resilience I was eager to bring to Ruth in The Oval.

ER The Oval and Ruthless deal with some heavy social topics. How has being involved in these storylines impacted your perspective on the shows’ subject-matter?

MW My storylines on these shows—one about corruption and drama in the White House and the other about a violent religious cult—are generated from ideas that stem from some of the ugly realities that are often kept swept under the rug. Art imitating life.

ER Shooting two hit shows at the same time is no small feat. Share with us how you manage to navigate your dual work schedules alongside your personal life.

MW If you haven’t heard, let me be the first to share that we shoot at a very rapid pace, and being that Tyler Perry can shoot a season in under two weeks, I’d say my dual schedules are easily manageable. My personal life is great. I really get to enjoy my time off.

ER Especially considering the added stress created by the current state of the world, what is the key to maintaining sanity when your plate is full?

MW This, too, shall pass. I don’t feel like I have any added stress, to be honest, because I have shifted my perspective on a lot of things.

Sure, adjustments had to be made accordingly, but I’m also sure even those were necessary. I don’t know, blame Eckhart Tolle!

ER Your time is split between Atlanta and Los Angeles for work. How do you appropriate your time spent between the South and Southern California?

MW So, I have lived in LA for eight years.

Although I went to college in Atlanta, I only go there for work and to visit family now. I spend most of my time at home here, obvi.

Right now, I am auditioning, taking meetings for a special project, and spending my time working on my mental, spiritual, and physical health.

ER When you aren’t acting, you’re often found volunteering with Young Storytellers.

How did arts education, that is targeted at poverty-stricken school districts, become a cause that is close to your heart, and how are you furthering its reach?

MW Well, when I was introduced to the YS program about two years ago, after going to The Biggest Show, I just admired the idea of adults giving their time to perform original creative stories written by kids. It was really special to me to experience it as an audience member, and I immediately wanted to get involved. Things have been more difficult these days with the shutdown to volunteer with YS, but I’m hoping to be reunited, pandemic permitting.

ER In what ways do charitable works and outreach programs with non-profit organizations nurture wellness?

MW Giving is part of who I am. Whether it’s my time or monetarily, it really has a positive effect on me spiritually to be in a position to give. I think there are so many pieces to wellness and it will vary for everyone, but these two are important to me. Volunteering is something I enjoy doing.

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the power of ADAPTATION Health & Fitness Editor Dina Juve

As we progress in life, our needs evolve, but sometimes it’s difficult to enact change. Why? Because change is hard. Period. It can be even harder to adapt or make changes that you have not chosen, especially if those changes have been deemed necessary for the overall well-being of yourself and others. When our changes become requirements, we usually accept them easily, feeling comfortable making some of them, but not all.

Or, we completely deny, dismissing or rebelling against them.

We are all unique and different, which, I believe, makes our world more dynamic and beautiful, but this can also unite us or divide us. We have to find a common ground to unite. Together, we are stronger, more courageous, and that is important for our survival.

Right now, more than ever, we are all searching for answers. At this time in history, things are changing from day to day, even hour to hour. All of it can become extremely confusing and overwhelming. We have had to be flexible, trusting new unknowns. Having faith in the right and qualified people will ensure that we get the correct information and that we keep ourselves, and the ones we love, safe and healthy. As our country deals with compounding health and economic crises, adaptation has become crucial in 2021.

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I wish to help matters through my work. My expertise is in fitness, nutrition, mindset, and overall wellness. Throughout my education, training, and years of experience working with clients, I have found and documented that most of our decisions are based on a combination of our upbringing, personal life journeys, and experiences. The people we are around, our environment, our belief systems. The things we do, listen to or watch daily. How important we think making changes is, and how they will make our life better. Then committing, being consistent, and, most importantly, not giving up.

Right now, everything is moving so fast, but true evolution happens gradually over time. Information comes at us so quickly. So, stop and try to stay focused. You cannot change your entire life, or even a few years, months, or weeks, in the blink of an eye.

One of my favorite quotes is by Henry Ford: “Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t—either way you are right.”

Identify

No one wants to lead an unhealthy or unhappy life. With so many unpredictable elements, it can be difficult to keep our priorities straight.

This can lead to fear, anxiety, and depression. It shakes us to our core with hopelessness and division. We, as human beings, are stronger together.

We must dive deep into our hearts and souls to find all the reasons we should be working together to live safe and healthy lives so that we all can get back to living again. We must find our inner strength and the courage to accept help from others. In numbers, we are so much more powerful and far more likely to adapt to what is required for our overall well-being, physically and mentally.

Let’s slow down a bit. Shut out the noise and create a plan you can actually stick to. I’m going to give you four easy steps to create lifelong, healthy changes by helping you identify your needs, and then helping you implement, maintain, and adapt new, beneficial habits.

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Pick two to three items that are crucial for your overall well-being.

If you are unsure, I recommend paying attention to the top areas you often think about regarding your health and well-being.

Implement • • •

Have a solid plan.

Have clarity on why you are doing it.

Write it out, include roadblocks, put it on your calendar, and be accountable.

In all of the unknowns, our common ground, which can unite us, is taking care of ourselves. It is vital. Only then can we set that same example in our homes, our communities, and our world, especially for our leaders of tomorrow. No one can argue that taking steps to be healthier can only help, and not hurt, you—even if you feel the cards are already stacked against you.

Maintain

I personally have dealt with my own genetic health issues all my life. I am not comparing it to anyone else’s pre-existing health conditions, or your health at this moment, or if you have lost someone you have loved.

If you have, I am so very sorry. I’m writing this from a place of love and understanding. Some days, you may feel it would be easier to pull the covers over your head or put your loved ones in a bubble. I completely understand! But, when the covers are pulled down, or when the bubble pops, nothing will have changed. We must find ways to live healthily and fit, mentally and physically, more and more each day, so that we can adapt to what our life is today. It is essential to adapt.

Most of us know what to do, but reminders are always good. This list contains four easy steps. Revisit it if anything resonates with you. Write it down or mentally take note.

Move your body every day. Eat healthy, nutritious food. Stretch and recover. Get enough sleep. Surround yourself with good people. Look at your environment. Stay on track with doctor appointments. Ensure you are getting enough vitamins and minerals. Keep your immune system strong. Be careful of information overload—don’t be afraid to turn off your phone, computer, or television. Pay attention to how you feel—honor those feelings and communicate. Create a plan, routine, and schedule.

Stop being angry, mad, or aggressive. Make peace with your past, people, or the circumstances you do not control, and move forward. Be happy and laugh often. Decrease stress when you can. Breathe, meditate, and pray.

We need more healthy role models, so be one on whatever scale feels right to you. Do something meaningful every single day.

• • •

Don’t stop.

It should not take many hours out of your day. If it does, it will be hard to make the items you picked a part of your lifestyle.

Do not add more items until your new healthy habits come naturally.

Adapt • • • •

Enjoy how you feel knowing you have created new, healthy habits for your overall well-being.

This is where I would add another item in—but only if you feel you are ready.

Return to step one: identifying needs.

Share with the world.

If you are struggling, find ways to create a healthier and happy life by rereading the above as a gentle, helpful reminder.

Adapting new beneficial and healthy habits for your overall well-being takes time and hard work, so be patient and proud. When you truly adapt and make changes for your overall well-being, you have made a commitment to yourself that you are important. Those changes will help you live in healthier and happier ways. Your new changes will add up and others will take notice, wanting to know what you’ve changed and why you have made them. Hopefully, your story will inspire others to make changes, too. Then, they may pass it on. The cycle continues, healthily uniting us—and that is extremely powerful.

When it’s time to own your dream home, Sierra Pacific is here to help.

Michelle Glass

Retail Branch Manager NMLS# 307279 1080 W. Shaw Ave., Suite #101 Fresno, CA 93711 o - 559.490.0470 c - 559.779.8057 f - 866.236.0581 michelle.glass@spmc.com

©2019 Sierra Pacific Mortgage Company, Inc. NMLS # 1788. (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org) Equal Housing Lender. Licensed in California by the Department of Business Oversight under the Residential Mortgage Lending Act 417-0015.

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LUX looks Beauty Trends

A Closer Look

Probiotic Skincare Beauty Editor Jessica McCafferty

What do yogurt, kombucha, and pickles all have in common? When eaten, they are healthy sources of probiotics in your diet. But did you know these friendly bacteria are also excellent beauty ingredients? Let’s take a closer look.

“Probiotics are really beneficial for the skin,” explains celebrity aesthetician Joshua Ross of SkinLab (www.skinlabusa.com). “Probiotics work similarly to the way they benefit the gut; by creating a healthy bacterial environment to help regulate the skin. From aggressive exfoliation and changes in diet, sometimes those strains of microorganisms can be depleted from the skin, and probiotics in skincare can help replace them.”

So, what are the added benefits of using this ingredient? Dr. Peterson Pierre of the Pierre Skin Care Institute in Thousand Oaks, California (www.pierreskincare.com) shares just why probiotics are worth including in your daily skincare regimen. It’s all about restoring and balancing the skin’s natural microbiome. “All of this helps to reduce inflammation,” Dr. Pierre explains.

“They also fight free radicals produced by the sun and pollution and may possibly even protect against skin cancer,” he continues. “Probiotics can build up our skin’s natural defenses and promote healthy function.

These properties allow probiotics to be very useful for inflammatory skin conditions such as acne, rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis, and in preventing premature aging.”

The best part? You can find probiotic options in nearly all the skincare products you love already!

Aurelia Skincare offers their Brightening Eye Serum, which contains the brand’s probiotic ingredients to manage inflammation and promote the

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production of collagen and hyaluronic acid. Its signature eye complex also reduces wrinkles and gives you smooth, radiant skin.

Nordic Renewal Pre + Probiotic Cream was just launched by skyn ICELAND. This multi-tasking moisturizer is packed with prebiotics and probiotics to encourage cell renewal while simultaneously providing visible, lasting hydration.

If you are in the market for a new facial serum, try BIOMILK’s Complete Nutrition Daily Serum. It feeds your skin the healthy nutrition it craves with clinically proven prebiotics and probiotics, in addition to plant-based superfoods, to achieve visibly healthy-looking skin.

Other great finds include the KORRES Greek Yoghurt Probiotic SuperDose Face Mask, which rehydrates, rebalances, and reduces redness in less than 10 minutes.

Botanics’ Revive & Protect Postbiotic Gel Cleanser does the same. It is infused with antioxidant-rich black tea kombucha and cleanses makeup, excess oil, product build-up, and pollutants.

With so many formulations to choose from, it’s easy to find probiotics that enhance your skin just as they improve your gut health. Be proactive about probiotics!

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1. Aurelia Skincare Brightening Eye Serum $72.00 from www.aureliaskincare.com 2. skyn ICELAND Nordic Renewal Pre + Probiotic Cream $48.00 from www.skyniceland.com 3. BIOMILK Complete Nutrition Daily Serum $25.00 from www.biomilkskincare.com 4. KORRES Greek Yoghurt Probiotic SuperDose Face Mask $49.00 from www.ulta.com 5. Botanics Revive & Protect Postbiotic Gel Cleanser $9.99 from www.target.com

ShopCVLUX.com Curated by the editors of CVLUX.

Street Smart Explore the fashionable world of CVLUX.

Street style is just a click away with Shop CVLUX. From runway to sidewalk, shop looks inspired by it-girls, fashionistas, and influencers alike with items that will transform your wardrobe one piece at a time. Style is an outward reflection of self—refine your aesthetic with every season, occasion, and lifestyle. Featuring high-end fashion and accessible streetwear, living the LUXlife has never been easier.

Discover at shopCVLUX.com

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LUX looks

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Beauty Trends

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Beauty Editor Jessica McCafferty

Beauty radiates from the inside. The items listed here prove that products can have heart, too. We have rounded up the top organic, vegan, and cruelty-free launches just in time for spring. It’s the season for eco chic beauty!

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1. Salwa Petersen Chébé du Tchad Hair Cream $69.00 from www.salwa-petersen.com 2. BITE Beauty Upswing Full-Volume Mascara $28.00 from www.bitebeauty.com 3. Common Ground Hydrating Serum/Hyaluronic Acid + Hemp Extract $65.00 from www.commonground-health.com 4. Leonor Greyl L’Huile de Leonor Greyl $59.00 from www.nordstrom.com 5. bareMinerals ORIGINAL Liquid Mineral Foundation $35.00 from www.bareminerals.com 6. The A Method® by Tina Alster MD 24K Gold + Snail Growth Factor Serum $196.00 from www.theamethodskincare.com 7. Be a 10 Be Groomed Brow $21.00 from www.bea10.com 8. jane iredale Enlighten Plus™ Under-eye Concealer $44.00 from www.janeiredale.com 9. Heretic Parfum Dirty Lavender $185.00 from www.hereticparfum.com 10. Baylis & Harding Goodness Natural Hand Wash in Lemongrass & Ginger $5.99 from www.target.com

LOVE WHERE YOU LIVE

LAURA MATHER

Broker Associate Lic# 01155115

559.341.2476 | MatherMethod.com

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