CVLUX NOV | DEC 2021

NOV | DEC

TINSEL

TRADITIONS

HOME & GARDEN

SEASONAL

SCENTS

VALLEY EXPERTS

BEAUTY

STOCKING STUFFERS

LITTLE LUXURIES

LOCAL GO-TO GIFTS

COLD WEATHER

COMFORT FOODS

HOLIDAY LOVE

AN INTERVIEW WITH MARY FITZGERALD LUXURY AWARDS GET READY TO PARTY

At Sceptre & Sash, we know that luxury is in the details. As Central California’s premiere sustainable boutique experience, we find only the most luxurious pre-owned and vintage accessories, perfect for every occasion. We specialize in bridal and estate jewelry, certified loose diamonds, timepieces, handbags and accessories, all while offering a 100% lifetime authenticity guarantee, and a 14 day no-questions-asked return policy. We additionally offer a one year limited warranty on all timepieces, details of which are available in store. Experience all the brands we love as you peruse our collections of Rolex, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Hermès, and so much more!

Financing is available subject to credit approval, and a 10-month layaway program complete our buying opportunities. We pride ourselves in working with each customer to create a unique look that will leave a lasting impression.

Sell to us. Visit us for a no-obligation offer on your luxury goods, with immediate payment.

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

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

VOTE FOR BEST JEWELER & BOUTIQUE

BEST BOUTIQUE 2018, 2019 & 2021

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

VOTE FOR BEST JEWELER & BOUTIQUE

BEST BOUTIQUE 2018, 2019 & 2021

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

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L U X U RY

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for voting! u o

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Dr. Theodore Martinez Dr. Theodore Martinez is a California native, having grown up in San Jose and later in Fresno. With a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Biology, he completed 5 years of Chiropractic School in Los Angeles, CA, and an additional year of specialized training in management and treatment of sports injuries, where he attained board certification.

He has spent his entire career in private practice treating entire families, from children through seniors, as well as professional athletes in football, baseball, and golf. He has had the pleasure of treating parents, their kids, and even third generations now! He joined UHC in 2021 to start an exciting new chapter in his career, where he can share his knowledge and experience in spinal care at UHC. Dr. Martinez believes that patient education and open communication are essential and encourages his patients to take an active role in their recovery. “When patients work with me by asking questions and fully participating in their care, there is virtually no limit to the level of health that can be achieved.”

Dr. Martinez resides in Fresno, has a beautiful Golden Retriever, and enjoys golf, scuba diving, and underwater photography.

Chiropractors with United Health Centers of the San Joaquin Valley

Dr. Ruste Parker Dr. Ruste Parker is a native of Fresno, California and has been a practicing chiropractor for close to 20 years. She specializes in family care, including prenatal and pediatric chiropractic, as well as sport rehabilitation, where her experience began with Undergraduate Course Work in Women’s Collegiate Soccer at Fresno State. Dr. Parker received her Doctorate of Chiropractic at the University of Western States in Portland, Oregon and has a post doctorate specialty in prenatal care, including chiropractic care, as well as infant nutrition from Bagnell Chiropractic Life Centre in Langhorne, Pennsylvania.

Dr. Parker has seen several very young patients from the Parlier Migrant Head Start office, when she began chiropractic care with UHC at the Parlier health center in March 2020. Dr. Parker is currently seeing patients at the Milburn health center in Fresno and at the Herndon health center in Clovis. When asked what she loves most about working with patients at United Health Centers, she responded, “The great thing about being a chiropractor at UHC is that I can work in tandem with wonderful medical providers who share the common goal of helping patients feeling, living, and becoming better.”

United Health Centers of the San Joaquin Valley

The Bullard Health Center offers comprehensive primary healthcare including Medical, Dental, Behavioral Health, Chiropractic, X-Ray, Laboratory and Urgent Care services.

Bullard Health Center 1780 E. Bullard Ave Fresno, CA 93710

The Milburn Health Center offers comprehensive primary healthcare including Medical, Dental, Optometry, Behavioral Health, Chiropractic, X-Ray, Laboratory and Urgent Care services.

Milburn Health Center 6810 N. Milburn Ave Fresno, CA 93722

Visit United Health Centers at: www.unitedhealthcenters.org

Clovis Health Center 2497 E. Herndon Avenue, Suite #103 Clovis, CA 93611

Follow us: @unitedhealthcenters 800.492.4227

The goals of chiropractic care include the restoration of function and prevention of injury in addition to pain relief.

Chiropractic services are available at all UHC health centers for the treatment of: • • • •

Neck pain Back pain Headaches Low back pain

• • • •

Sciatica Arthritis Scoliosis Pregnancy low back pain

• •

Shoulder pain Leg & arm pain

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NOV | DEC

Contents

Holiday Home & Garden

In Every Issue 16 18 20

Publisher’s Perspective Welcome to the Issue Masthead

Social Affair 24

22nd Annual Crab Feed

Benefiting CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties

26

Safari Night

28

Hot Pink Classic Golf Tournament

30 32

36

Benefiting the Fresno Chaffee Zoo Benefiting the Marjorie E. Radin Breast Care Center 18th Annual Harvest of Hope

Benefiting Catholic Charities, Diocese of Fresno Sip & Support

Benefiting Valley Children’s Hospital 2022 Luxury Awards

Cast your vote!

Departments 40

64

42 44

Interviewing Mary For the NOV | DEC Edition, CVLUX features Mary Fitzgerald for the Holiday Home & Garden Issue.

Holiday Bazaar

Beauty gift sets for the product junkie in your life.

Little Luxuries

Our contributors share their go-to gifts.

46

All That Shimmers

53

Profiles

62 NOV | DEC

66 72

PHOTOGRAPHER DAVID CHRISTOPHER LEE

Fragrant Finds

A perfume for everyone on your gift list.

Pink walls and lots of sparkle in this holiday home décor.

Home & Garden Gather ‘Round

Favorite comfort foods meant to feed a crowd.

Merry Mary

Cover Story: Mary Fitzgerald Costars

Scorpio & Sagittarius

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NOV | DEC

Publisher’s Perspective Holiday Home & Garden

PHOTOGRAPHER DAVID CHRISTOPHER LEE

’Tis the Season

A

s we prepare to close another year, we turn our sights to the future. The CVLUX family has experienced many changes over the past few months. We’ve welcomed some new faces to our team and we are excited to see our continued growth in 2022.

This coming year, we will be increasing our publishing rate from six issues to eight. In addition, we are working diligently to continue to drive our product into the future through digital and social avenues, making our brand more accessible to our thriving reader and consumer base.

There has been a purposeful push since May of 2021 to include more localized content. Going forward, each of our editors will have roots which tie them to the Central Valley. We will also be featuring at least four localized covers in our 2022 lineup.

It has always been the mission of CVLUX to celebrate the Valley and represent it through an attainable understated elegance. This will continue

to grow the pride our advertisers and readers feel each time they pick up an issue—when you invest in CVLUX, you are choosing a lifestyle, a brand, which represents superiority in print and digital marketing.

This January, we will finally welcome back our much-anticipated signature event: the Luxury Awards. After being on pause for a year, we hope this celebration brings much love and admiration towards our thriving community. Congratulations to all the nominees! If you’d like to join the party, we have only a handful of tables remaining, so please reach out to one of our friendly team members to secure your seat.

May this holiday season bring you a sense of joy and renewed optimism as we embark on a brighter and more inclusive future.

Cheers,

David

Welcome to the Issue Holiday Home & Garden

Come Together Covergirl and Selling Sunset star Mary Fitzgerald opens up her home and heart for the Holiday Home & Garden Issue (page 66). Voting for the 2022 Luxury Awards ends the second week of December—cast your vote before it’s too late (page 36). Profile the Central Valley’s home and garden experts (page 53). Check out all the latest community happenings in Social Affair (page 24).

The CVLUX contributors reveal their favorite presents to share during the holiday season (page 44). Beauty features a fragrance for everyone on your shopping list (page 40) and gift sets galore (page 42). Be empowered to paint your walls a vibrant shade to compliment glittering Christmas décor (page 46). Get in the kitchen and bring out a selection of comfort foods fit for a crowd (page 62). Learn what the stars have in store for you with Scorpio and Sagittarius in the sky (page 72).

Cheery Celebrations

It’s the season for good tidings and great joy. As this year draws to a close, may we embrace our loved ones, time, and blessings with deepened appreciation. Let’s celebrate the goodness of 2021 with holiday cheer in our hearts.

PHOTOGRAPHER EMID DESIGN GROUP

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NOV | DEC

DAVID MANNING Publisher, Owner

EDITORIAL Editorial Director LAUREN BARISIC Interiors Editor ERIN MELKONIAN Health & Fitness Editor DINA JUVE Features Editors ELISABETH ROSS and ANN T. SULLIVAN WHITEHURST Beauty Editor JESSICA MCCAFFERTY Fashion Stylist ALMA WOLVERTON Astrologer SHARI SCHOPP ART Design Director PHENG MOUA Social Media Director SYDNEE STOTTLEMYRE BURKE Contributing Photographers TRAVIS BIRCHFIELD, DON DIZON, DAVID CHRISTOPHER LEE KELLY PETERSEN, BILLY FARRELL AGENCY, DAVID J. OROZCO PHOTOGRAPHY CLAIRE TAKAHASHI PHOTOGRAPHY and EMID DESIGN GROUP BUSINESS Regional Marketing Director CAROL DEFENDIS Sales Executive EMMA TOSTE Accounting Director DEE ANN LINKER Legal Counsel GONTORWON BORH Please submit all advertising inquires to information@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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Thank Y o

L U X U R Y · A W

A R D S

Fine Gifts & st

or voting! Be f u

cor De

LIVE in Shop home décor, tabletop & Christmas collections in-store

shop online now

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NOV | DEC

SOCIAL affair

22nd Annual Crab Feed

��nd ANNUAL CRAB FEED Benefiting CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties Hosted at the estate of former MLB pitcher Matt Garza and his wife Serina on Friday, September 10th, the 22nd Annual Crab Feed, benefiting CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties, capped its attendance at 675 this year and honored 271 Court Appointed Special Advocates. Sponsored primarily

by Alaskan Crab, The Smittcamp Family Foundation, and CalViva Health, $260,000 gross revenue was raised to positively change the trajectory of foster children and youth in the local community. For more information about CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties, please visit www.casafresnomadera.org.

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NOV | DEC

SOCIAL affair

Safari Night

SAFARI NIGHT Benefiting the Fresno Chaffee Zoo Safari Night was held at the Fresno Chaffee Zoo on Friday, September 17th. A total of $224,000, a record-breaking amount, was raised and will aid in inspiring and educating visitors about animal care at the zoo and conservation in the wild. The event’s 515 attendees strolled the zoo while enjoying live music, tasting stations, signature cocktails, and animal interactions with Animal Ambassadors.

After Fund-a-Need pledges and an exciting live auction, guests danced the night away to the Valley Cats. For more information about the Fresno Chaffee Zoo, please visit www.fresnochaffeezoo.org.

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NOV | DEC

SOCIAL affair

Hot Pink Classic Golf Tournament

HOT PINK CLASSIC GOLF TOURNAMENT Benefiting the Marjorie E. Radin Breast Care Center The sold-out Hot Pink Classic Golf Tournament began on the morning of Friday, October 1st with breakfast burritos and Cafe Agave Spiked Cold Brews, followed by a barbeque lunch. Hosted by the Presidents Club on behalf of Community Health System, Office of Philanthropy at Eagle Springs Golf & Country Club, 144 golfers and 50 sponsors and volunteers brought in $100,000 for the Marjorie E. Radin Breast Care Center at Clovis Community Medical Center. For more information about the Marjorie E. Radin Breast Care Center, please visit www.communitymedical.org.

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SOCIAL affair

18th Annual Harvest of Hope

18TH ANNUAL HARVEST OF HOPE Benefiting Catholic Charities, Diocese of Fresno The 18th Annual Harvest of Hope took place on Saturday, October 2nd at Valdez Hall in Downtown Fresno with 400 people in attendance, including 73 sponsors. Harvest of Hope is Catholic Charities’ largest annual fundraiser, and this year’s event was the biggest success in its 18-year history, having generated more than $900,000 to support its vital programs. This year’s honorees were Tony and Kathie Mehrtash, The Nazareth House, and Sisters of Nazareth. For more information about Catholic Charities, Diocese of Fresno, please visit www.ccdof.com.

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NOV | DEC

SOCIAL affair

Sip & Support

SIP & SUPPORT Benefiting Valley Children’s Hospital Tesoro Viejo hosted their inaugural Sip & Support event benefiting Valley Children’s Hospital (VCH) on Saturday, October 2nd.

Held at Tesoro Viejo’s resort-style Ranch House Clubhouse, the event featured wine and beer tastings from over a dozen local wineries and breweries. About 200 guests enjoyed delicious food, desserts, and a silent auction. Over $42,000 was raised for VCH’s Adaptive Sports Program, which provides free recreational athletic experiences for those with disabilities or injuries. For more information about Valley Children’s Hospital, please visit www.valleychildrens.org.

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u o Y k n a h T s r o s n o p S

T

he Central Valley’s most anticipated event is back! Voting for the most outstanding local businesses and professionals are now open. Visit www.cvlux.com to cast your vote.

Voting will continue through Friday, December 10th, 2021. Winners will be announced at the Luxury Awards.

WHEN + WHERE Friday, January 21st, 2022 6:00 P.M. to Midnight Hilton Ballroom DoubleTree, Downtown 2233 Ventura Street Fresno, California 93721

HOSPITAL

SALON + SPA

COMMUNITY MEDICAL CENTERS KAISER PERMANENTE KAWEAH HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER SAINT AGNES MEDICAL CENTER VALLEY CHILDREN’S HEALTHCARE

ADRINA MARTINS SALON INTRINSIC LA PEAU SPA PREEN A BOUTIQUE SALON RE:TREAT COLOR + HAIR DESIGN STUDIO

COSMETIC/PLASTIC SURGEON

DEALERSHIP

HEDIEH ARBABZADEH, MD Women’s Plastic Surgery MAZIAR BIDAR, MD Eye Medical Center of Fresno MARK CHIN, MD, MPH Valley Institute of Plastic Surgery JAMES KNOETGEN, MD Beautologie Cosmetic Surgery & Medical Aesthetics KAYE RIOLO, MD Riolo Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery

COSMETIC DENTIST

MICHELLE ASSELIN, DDS, FAGD, FACD, FICD Fresno Dental Professionals ARTASHES AVAKIAN, DDS Professional Dental Care HUGO CORONADO, DDS Cosmetic Dentistry, Implants & Orthodontics J. ART MIRELEZ, JR., DDS, FICOI, FAGD Mirelez Wellness Dental SAM NAMDARIAN, DMD Fresno Smile Makeovers

BMW FRESNO FRESNO ACURA HARON JAGUAR, LAND ROVER & VOLVO MERCEDES-BENZ OF FRESNO MICHAEL CADILLAC

SHOPPING CENTER FIG GARDEN VILLAGE MARKETPLACE AT EL PASEO PARK CROSSING RIVER PARK VILLAGGIO

JEWELER

GIANNI FINE JEWELERS ORLOFF JEWELERS ROGERS JEWELRY CO. SCEPTRE & SASH AUTHENTIC LUXURY THE VAULT FINE JEWELERS

BOUTIQUE

DERMATOLOGIST KATHLEEN L. BEHR, MD Behr Laser & Skin Care Center JANE F. KARDASHIAN, MD Golden State Dermatology MARKÉTA LÍMOVÁ, MD Intelligent Skincare CARLOS PAZ, MD Paz Dermatology LESLIE STOREY, MD Valley Skin Institute

MEDICAL SPA

ASPIRE MEDISPA AWAKEN AESTHETICS & ANTI-AGING BODY DEL SOL AESTHETICS ESTEEM MED SPA KISS ME MED SPA

THE FOUNDRY IN SEASON A LIFESTYLE BOUTIQUE OOH LA LA REVIVAL 23 SCEPTRE & SASH AUTHENTIC LUXURY

FINE GIFTS + DÉCOR HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE JUDE’S RSVP STYLE VERDALEE VONDA’S

HOME FURNISHINGS

AMMONS DESIGN & HOME DÉCOR BRICK & MORTAR FASHION FURNITURE HEMISPHERE HOME POTTERY BARN

COMMUNITY

CLOVIS COPPER RIVER RANCH OLD FIG GARDEN RIVERSTONE DEVELOPMENT TESORO VIEJO

BUILDER

BONADELLE NEIGHBORHOODS DE YOUNG PROPERTIES GRANVILLE HOMES McCAFFREY HOMES WATHEN CASTANOS HOMES

CONTRACTOR/ REMODELING SPECIALIST

DODSON BUILDERS CONSTRUCTION INC. ICON CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN J & J QUALITY CONSTRUCTION INC. NELSON-DYE REMODELING SPECIALISTS RFMC CONSTRUCTION, INC.

REALTOR

IVETTE CHAVEZ Western Pioneer Properties VICTORIA GREER Victoria Greer Real Estate LAURA MATHER The Mather Method at London Properties SEAN & CHELSEA SOARES The Soares Team at Iron Key Real Estate PAUL TATARIAN Tatarian Group at Gentile Real Estate

CASINO

CHUKCHANSI GOLD RESORT & CASINO CLUB ONE CASINO MONO WIND CASINO TABLE MOUNTAIN CASINO TACHI PALACE CASINO RESORT

BAR

ELBOW ROOM BAR & GRILL FIVE MANHATTAN STEAKHOUSE & BAR MODERNIST CRAFT COCKTAIL BAR QUAIL STATE

MORTGAGE LENDER

MICHELLE BRUNN Peerless Lending ELIAS DELGADO Platinum Home Mortgage LISA FLORES Homebridge MICHELLE GLASS Sierra Pacific Mortgage TOBY PETRUCELLI The Toby Team at Premier Mortgage Resources LLC

DINING

13 PRIME STEAK THE ANNEX KITCHEN THE LIME LITE MAX’S BISTRO & BAR PARMA

HIDDEN GEM

ANNESSO PIZZERIA ELDERWOOD MOCHUELO OGGI COSI SI MANGIA TRELIO FOOD & WINE

CAST YOUR VOTE WWW.CVLUX.COM

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NOV | DEC

LUX looks Beauty Trends

1

Fragrant

Finds

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Beauty Editor Jessica McCafferty

4 5

There’s love at first sight, and then there’s love at first scent.

Not only do all of these fragrances stun on your dresser, but they are also true beauties in a bottle and the perfect spritz for yourself or someone special. Smell is the strongest sense for memory, so give a gift that has a lasting impression.

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1. Eau d’Italie Le Sirenuse Positano Jasmine Leather Eau de Parfum Spray $170.00 from www.beautyhabit.com 2. Floral Street Sunflower Pop Eau De Parfum $78.00 from www.sephora.com 3. Ellis Brooklyn SUPER AMBER Eau de Parfum $105.00 from www.sephora.com 4. Escentric Molecules Molecule 01 + Patchouli $145.00 from www.saksfifthavenue.com 5. Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge 540 Eau de parfum $325.00 from www.nordstrom.com 6. Lavanila The Healthy Fragrance Pure Vanilla $48.00 from www.lavanila.com 7. Parfums de Marly Oriana $320.00 from us.parfums-de-marly.com 8. KKW Fragrance Nude Suede $40.00 from www.kkwfragrance.com 9. Kilian Apple Brandy On The Rocks $195.00 from www.bykilian.com 10. Krigler Palais Monarchie 218 Fragrance $525.00 from www.krigler.com

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­—42—

Holiday BAZAAR NOV | DEC

LUX looks Beauty Trends 1

Beauty Editor Jessica McCafferty

10

9

The CVLUX annual beauty gift guide is finally here and full of beauty treats galore! We’ve rounded up the most dazzling and in-demand gifts for this holiday season. Consider it your pampering bazaar. It’s an opportunity to try something new before passing along the beautiful, festive cheer.

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1. Sigma Beauty Magnifique Collection Beauty Obsessed Brush Set $95.00 from www.sigmabeauty.com 2. The A Method by Tina Alster, MD 24K Gold + Collagen Facial Masks 6-Count Pack $95.00 from www.theamethod.com 3. Christophe Robin Luscious Curl Ritual $57.00 from www.christopherobin.com 4. bareMinerals Full-Size Strength & Length Mascara Duo $23.00 from www.bareminerals.com 5. The Ordinary. The Bright Set $38.00 from www.deciem.com 6. OLEHENRIKSEN Splashing Stars Cleanser & Scrub Duo $32.00 from www.sephora.com 7. Eve Lom Rescue Glow Discovery Set $85.00 from www.evelom.com 8. amika Blowout Buffet Blow Dryer Brush Set ​$99.00 from www.sephora.com 9. 111SKIN The Luxury Advent $420.00 from www.111skin.com 10. CHI for Ulta Beauty Bling It On Hairstyling Iron $99.99 from www.ulta.com

­—44—

little luxuries NOV | DEC

our contributors’ go-to gifts Fashion Stylist Alma Wolverton

Find direction and guidance with the Eden Locket Necklace featuring the North Star. Available in blue and green from designer Joy Dravecky at pum bum Society.

Joy Dravecky Eden Locket Necklace $105.00 from @shoppumbum

Health & Fitness Editor Dina Juve

Interiors Editor Erin Melkonian

Puzzles are beautiful for both doing and decorating, and these support the work of amazing female artists. It’s a great way to relax during an amped holiday season.

JIGGY Puzzles $40.00 to $49.00 from www.jiggypuzzles.com

These five motivational resistance bands can accompany you anywhere. They work every body part and are sure to make you sweat. Fitness meets style. Free workout videos on their website.

Bala Resistance Bands $22.95 from www.papersource.com

Social Media Director Sydnee Stottlemyre Burke

As we enter the winter months, send your warmest regards to hosts and guests alike with these pre-made craft cocktail kits from Revival 23.

Camp Craft Cocktails $25.00 each from www.revival23.com

Editorial Director Lauren Barisic

I’ve never tasted a flavor at Ampersand that I didn’t like. But since it’s a bit difficult to gift anyone anything frozen, I relish sharing the trio of Ampersand Sauces. Get them in-store!

Ampersand Ice Cream Sauces $10.00 each from www.ampersandicecream.com

Vote for both: Esteem Med Spa Riolo Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery

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You can feel the calm atmosphere and compassion that Dr. Riolo and her staff provide the moment you step foot into their spa-like practice. Together, the Riolo team is passionate about making people feel like the absolute best version of themselves. Whether you are considering turning the clock back with injectable treatments, laser treatments, a mommy makeover, or a fuller head of hair, both Esteem Med Spa and Riolo Plastic Surgery have you covered!

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Allthat

Shimmers Interiors Editor Erin Melkonian Photographer EMID Design Group

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his year has been another trying year for all. As we attempt to emerge from our shelters and reintegrate into society, we are still faced with the persistence of this pandemic. Our hearts and minds grow weary as we wonder if our lives will ever go back to normal.

For my family, 2021 has been especially challenging. My daughter was admitted to the hospital in mid-December last year and fought the toughest battle I’ve ever seen a five-year-old fight. For three whole months, she persevered through multiple organ failures, infections, and several surgeries before she began her road to recovery and we were released from the hospital. This experience has given me immeasurable strength and appreciation. I feel a sense of playfulness when I look into my children’s eyes. Their breath is the greatest gift I am profoundly aware of every single day and brings me unlimited joy.

Since our 2020 Christmas was hijacked, I wanted to put extra inspiration into our home this year. I decided to transform what was once my daughter’s physical therapy room, bare with only a few floor mats, into a glowing space with a heartbeat of its own, where we could escape. I initially intended to paint the walls a vibrant shade of emerald green, but on the day the painters were set to start, I switched to Benjamin Moore’s Peach Blossom. I’m so glad I did because that set the stage for all the brilliance that was to come.

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pon perusing one of my favorite local consignment stores in Fresno, Re-Loved Vintage, I spotted a majestic velvet green sofa circa 1940 and a brutalist coffee table.

Together, these two pieces became my anchor.

Matching armchairs and a minimalist console table rounded out the room. With the help of my friend Jenna Sherrill at The Vintage Cat, I found two unique souffle ottomans with brass plinth bases from Lucky Valley Vintage in Parlier. When I threw these gems into the mix, I knew I was set to begin my holiday decorating.

The star of the space became the tinsel tree. I love the drippy nature the silver tinsel brings.

The rest of the tree was kept minimal. I added just a few glass-blown ornaments and gold hanging leaves to make it just a bit more interesting. Then, I draped long needle pines over the fireplace and accentuated it with silver sprigs. The console table became our bar, and I added fun festive touches to take it up a notch.

This room has quickly become the heart of our home. The colors energize and inspire, the vintage furniture tells a story, and all that shimmer accentuates the spirit of the holidays.

Even our dining room was given a fun facelift as a means of extending the festive living space. I mixed royal blue chargers with our everyday mint dishes. The napkins were folded into a vertical half-bow and secured with napkin rings I made out of clay. Finally, platinum mercury glass globes, nestled in garlands, were laid atop the table.

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

A successful mortgage starts with a personal touch.

Your goals are my goals and I ’ll always make you a priority.

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NOV | DEC

PRO

FILES

home & garden How do you measure success? It’s a subjective question, but following your dream and turning it into a livelihood is a good place to start.

These professionals have done just that. They have established careers that reflect their personal interests and goals, often while building families and giving back to their communities— major accomplishments by any measure.

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Ammons Design & Home Décor KEYNAN AMMONS

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Gentile Real Estate PAUL TATARIAN

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Guarantee Real Estate MING MING ANGOUW

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Tesoro Viejo MADERA, CALIFORNIA

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

home & garden

AMMONS DESIGN & HOME DÉCOR

“Be faithful to your own taste, because nothing you really like is ever out of style.”

—B. Baldwin

KEYNAN AMMONS, OWNER FRESNO, CALIFORNIA

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mmons Design & Home Décor is rooted in a fascination of different styles and stems from a childhood of diverse family cultures. As I became older and traveled the world, my curiosity for various design styles matured and I began sourcing pieces and decorating for friends and family. Ammons was created to introduce unique, exclusive pieces from around the world, including holiday décor. We offer meaningful décor that is filled with character and represents a style and value that is exclusive to Ammons. Our mission is to blend various styles while redefining the traditional culture of home design.

WHO WE ARE Ammons was built on uniquely curated home furnishings with exceptional focus on style, comfort, quality, and value that blends aesthetic with function. Our décor and furnishings are both imported and made in the USA. We feature high-end pieces that are consistent with modern design, as well as vintage and antique items sourced from various estates and private collectors. Our collection ranges from custom furniture and original art to even small gift items for every budget.

WHAT I LOVE ABOUT MY PROFESSION I love the entire design process, from the initial meeting with the customer to the final walk through. Some clients just need confirmation that their design decision is going down the right path, others need in-home consultations to help create cohesiveness with pieces they already own, while others are looking for a full design service from start to finish. Clients entrust me with transforming their home or business into a place that fits their vision, while adding style and flow. The happiness I see on a client’s face, after being given the honor of transforming their home and/or business into something that is uniquely special to them, is why I started Ammons.

MY INSPIRATION Having lived in Japan and Saudi Arabia for over a decade, both styles deeply influenced my unique perspective on balance, transition, and color. I believe excellent design is understanding the client’s needs, wants, and personal experience. At Ammons, we start from the perspective of the client—their aesthetic sets the tone. It is the first building block in creating an awe-inspiring design. Together, we create style, comfort, and continuity.

From custom home furnishings to the perfect holiday décor, come see what Ammons has for you.

We carry brands such as Mark Roberts, Vickerman, Uttermost, John Richards, and much more.

Visit Keynan’s site at: www.ammonshomedecor.com Location 3087 West Bullard Avenue Fresno, CA 93711 Email keynanammons@yahoo.com Phone 559.801.5163 Follow @Ammons Home Décor @ammonsHomeDecor ADVERTISEMENT

home & garden

"Choose a job that you love and you will never have to work a day in your life.”

–Confucius

GENTILE REAL ESTATE PAUL TATARIAN, BROKER ASSOCIATE FRESNO, CALIFORNIA

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orn and raised in Fresno, I’m a proud alum of California State University, Fresno, where I earned my BS in Business Administration and my MBA, ultimately graduating at the top of my class. Over the years, as a broker associate with Gentile Real Estate, I’ve had the opportunity to assist clients in buying and selling not only residential properties, but also commercial and agricultural. It’s a privilege to be part of the Gentile Real Estate team, where we are top producers in the luxury real estate market for the Central Valley.

MY WORK ETHIC I place immense importance on my experience and knowledge in the many facets of real estate, but pride myself on dedication to “good old-fashioned, roll-up-your-sleeves, hard work.” Real estate is not a 9 to 5 occupation—it requires your total devotion and commitment, which I practice daily.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT It’s an honor to serve the great people of Fresno and believe that our community is only as good as the work people put into it.

I’m fortunate to be a committee member of Fresno’s 300 Club, which has raised millions of dollars benefiting Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central California. The mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters is to provide children facing adversity with strong and enduring, professionally supported, one-on-one relationships that change their lives, for the better, forever.

MY MOTIVATION For me, motivation comes in many different forms, but there is nothing more satisfying than being afforded the opportunity to assist the wonderful people of our community, whether it be the excitement of helping them purchase their first home, getting them top dollar in the sale of their current home, or helping them purchase their dream home.

DRE ID# 02004998 Visit Paul’s site at: www.tatarianrealestate.com Location 695 West Cromwell Avenue, Suite 102 Fresno, CA 93711 Email paultatarian@yahoo.com Phone 559.260.1763 Follow @PaulTatarianRealEstateBroker ADVERTISEMENT

home & garden

“Dream big, plan well, work hard, smile always and good things will happen.”

– Sally Huss

GUARANTEE REAL ESTATE MING MING ANGOUW, REALTOR FRESNO, CALIFORNIA

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am blessed with a wonderful husband and two beautiful children. I graduated from the accredited interior design program at California State University, Fresno. My work ethic and extensive experience in project management, new home building, and architectural design will be your greatest assets in selling and/or buying your properties. I remain true to my professional goal of providing honest advice, doing it with genuine love of the process and a great sense of humor.

MY MOTTO “Your Realtor for Life.” I am passionate about helping my clients fulfill their real estate goals. When you are about to engage in a real estate transaction, contact me for personal service that you can trust. My commitment is to build a longterm relationship as your realtor for life.

MY PASSION I love to scrapbook and travel around the world. When I am not at work, I spend time with my beloved family. In the summer, I enjoy working on my annual school supplies drive—I collect backpacks and school supplies for a deserving class in the Fresno/Clovis area.

WHAT SETS ME APART I take the time to listen to what my clients want and need. I help them to make an informed decision by walking them through every step of the home buying/selling process. I truly care about my clients and make sure that they get what is really best for them.

THREE WORDS THAT DESCRIBE ME Caring. Honest. Knowledgeable.

ADVICE FOR BUYING AND SELLING For home-buying: Determine your preferred location, needs, and wants, and budget by getting a loan pre-approval from a reputable lender. For home-selling: Be aware of the comps in the market and set a realistic price. Before your house hits the market, declutter, deep clean, stage, and repair it as needed.

CA DRE ID# 01885307 Visit Ming Ming’s site at: www.yourrealtorforlife.us Location Guarantee Real Estate 5210 North Palm Avenue Fresno, CA 93704 Email mingming@guarantee.com Phone 559.797.2411 Follow @MingMing.YourRealtorForLife @your_realtor_for_life @Ming2A @in/mingmingangouw ADVERTISEMENT

home & garden

TESORO VIEJO

Holiday magic comes alive at Tesoro Viejo.

LIFE. UNPRECEDENTED.

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esoro Viejo is a planned community offering a way of life unlike any other. This unique place blends beautiful homes and resort-style amenities with a small town feel, all while keeping residents connected to nature through miles of trails and tree-lined paths. “Life. Unprecedented.” at Tesoro Viejo is always worth celebrating, and this especially rings true during the holiday season.

RING IN THE SEASON All are welcome to kick off the holidays at Tesoro Viejo’s 4th annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. Get wrapped up in the spirit with rides on the Polar Express Train while snowflakes drop from the sky, and children enjoy festive treats and photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

COMMUNITY CHEER Tesoro Viejo residents enjoy gatherings like gingerbread house decorating, a gift exchange, and the New Year’s Masquerade Ball, many of which are hosted at the Ranch House clubhouse.

Throughout the season, families parade through town on decorated golf carts and deck their halls for the holiday home decorating contest.

HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS The Town Center is adorned with Christmas décor, and guests can enjoy the lights while sampling seasonal treats from AXIS Coffee Bar + Eatery. Artisans and farmers bring good cheer at the Holiday Farmers Market, and children can send letters to Santa at the Welcome Center. Holiday memories await at Tesoro Viejo.

Tesoro Viejo makes the season bright.

Tesoro Viejo makes the season bright.

The holiday season brings wonder and excitement to Tesoro Viejo.

Children will delight in posing for a photo with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

The holiday season brings wonder and excitement to Tesoro Viejo.

Children will delight in posing for a photo with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Follow Visit Tesoro Viejo’s site at: tesoroviejo.com @tesoroviejo Follow Visit Tesoro Viejo’s site at: tesoroviejo.com Location @tesoroviejo 4150 Town Center Boulevard @tesoroviejo Location Madera, CA 93636 4150 Town Center Boulevard @tesoroviejo @livetesoroviejo Madera, Phone CA 93636 (559) 822-3375 @livetesoroviejo Phone ADVERTISEMENT (559) 822-3375 ADVERTISEMENT

GATHER ‘ROUND Editorial Director Lauren Barisic Photographer Don Dizon

’Tis the season for comfort food! A time for home-cooked meals and family-style table settings. We’re delivering stick-to-your-ribs dinners with a selection of recipes designed to easily feed your relatives along with those friends who might as well be family. They are nostalgic with over‑the-top elements; don’t hesitate to add your own unique touch. Maybe this assortment isn’t the healthiest… But it’s the holidays, and they’ll fly by! So, stop worrying about the carbs for now. Besides (spoiler alert), come January, we’ll have you covered with waist-friendly recipes.

­—63— NOV | DEC

Red Wine Pot Roast with Root Vegetables, Caramelized Mashed Potatoes & Gravy SERVES 8

1 chuck roast 2 white or yellow onions 3 carrots 2 parsnips 1 turnip ½ cup red wine ½ cup sherry 2 tbs. liquid beef base ¼ cup cornstarch

Avocado or olive oil Hot water Garlic salt Black pepper

For the Caramelized Mashed Potatoes 8 red potatoes 1 head of garlic 2 white or yellow onions

Instructions Note: This recipe is designed to be made entirely in a Dutch oven.

To clarify, the process of cooking a chuck roast is what yields a pot roast.

Begin by preheating the oven to 325 degrees. Next, set a Dutch oven to medium heat and cover the bottom with oil. Season the chuck roast with garlic salt and black pepper to taste, and then brown both sides of the meat. Once browned, remove the chuck roast and set it aside. Pour the red wine and sherry into the Dutch oven, and use it to deglaze the bottom of the pan.

Cut off the top of the head of garlic, place it on a foil square, drizzle oil over the top, season with garlic salt and black pepper to taste, and then wrap up the prepared head of garlic in the foil. Slice the onions into ¼-inch discs.

Place the browned chuck roast back into the Dutch oven, and then cover the top with the onion discs. Add hot water up to nearly the top of the chuck roast, but do not submerge it. Next, stir the liquid beef base into the water so that it dissolves completely. Cover the Dutch oven with its lid, and roast the contents, as well as the prepared head of garlic, for 2 hours.

At the 2-hour mark, peel and cut the root vegetables into manageable pieces. Add the prepared root vegetables to the broth. The carrots, parsnips, and turnips may not be completely covered by the broth, but make sure that they are at least bathed in the liquid. Cover the Dutch oven with its lid again, and continue roasting for another 45 minutes.

Additionally, at the 2-hour mark, remove the roasted head of garlic from the oven. Allow it to cool before extracting the roasted

¼ cup sherry ½ cup cream 4 tbs. salted sweet cream butter 2 tbs. avocado or olive oil ½ tsp. white pepper Garlic salt Black pepper

cloves—they should be pulling away from their husks and will take on a creamy consistency when extracted. Set the roasted garlic aside.

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil for the caramelized mashed potatoes. Leave the skins on the red potatoes, cut them into bite-sized pieces, and boil them until tender.

Set a large saucepan to medium-high heat. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter with oil. While the red potatoes boil, cut the onions in half and then into ¼-inch slices. Add them to the melted butter and avocado oil, sprinkle a bit of garlic salt over the contents (to help the onions sweat), and pour in the sherry. Then, cover the saucepan and allow the onions to caramelize, stirring occasionally.

Once the pot roast is cooked, remove the root vegetables from the Dutch oven and set them aside. Scrape the onions off and set them aside as well. Next, remove the pot roast, set it on a serving plate, cover it with foil, and let it rest.

Keep the broth in the Dutch oven, as you’ll use it to make the gravy. Mix about a cup of water with cornstarch. Once completely incorporated, add it to the broth, whisking until it thickens into a gravy.

Strain the cooked potatoes. Add in the remaining butter, cream, roasted garlic, caramelized onions, the onions from the Dutch oven, and white pepper along with garlic salt and black pepper to taste. Then, mash them together.

Serve the Red Wine Pot Roast with the Root Vegetables and Caramelized Mashed Potatoes & Gravy on the side.

Skillet Chicken Pot Pie SERVES 8

2 chicken breasts (seasoned and cooked) 1 lb. bacon 8 pre-made flaky biscuits 1 white or yellow onion 2 carrots 3 stalks of celery

1 cup cremini mushrooms 4 garlic cloves 1½ cups cream 1½ cups white wine ½ cup frozen peas

Instructions Note: This recipe is designed to be made entirely in a 10-inch cast-iron skillet, but the ingredients can also be prepared in a saucepan and then transferred to a greased casserole dish, if needed.

Begin by setting a 10-inch cast-iron skillet to medium heat. Cut off any excess bacon fat, and then slice the bacon into ½-inch pieces.

Cook the bacon until it’s crispy, and then remove it from the pan.

Leave the bacon fat in the skillet.

Prepare all the vegetables. Dice the white onion. Peel and cut the carrots into ¼-inch pieces. Chop the celery into ½-inch pieces.

Slice the mushrooms into ½-inch pieces. Mince the garlic.

Drizzle a bit of oil in the skillet with the bacon fat. Add the prepared carrots and the garlic, and sauté for about five minutes. Next, add in the white onion, celery, and mushrooms with seasoned salt and

Avocado or olive oil 4 tbs. salted sweet cream butter ½ tsp. white pepper Seasoned salt Black pepper

black pepper to taste. You may need to add more oil to prevent the vegetables from sticking to the skillet. Allow the vegetables to cook until the onions are soft and fragrant.

Add the white wine, scraping the bottom of the skillet to loosen any crispy bits. Pour in the cream, add the white pepper, and then add the crispy bacon back in. Shred the chicken while you allow the mixture to reduce until the liquid only covers the vegetables, stirring occasionally. Now, preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

Take the skillet off the heat to finish the filling. Layer on the shredded chicken, followed by the frozen peas. Split the prepared biscuits in half and evenly cover the top of the filling with them.

Melt the salted sweet cream butter and brush it over the biscuit tops. Place the Skillet Chicken Pot Pie in the oven and bake for 20 minutes or until the biscuits turn golden brown. Allow it to cool for 10 minutes before serving.

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NOV | DEC

Lobster Mac & Cheese with Old Bay Topping SERVES 12

8 oz. pasta (pick a noodle that will hold the cheese) 2 lobster tails 2 sticks of salted sweet cream butter ¾ cup flour 2½ cups whole milk 1½ cups seafood stock 2 tsp. white wine

8 oz. cream cheese (room temperature) 4 oz. cheddar cheese 4 oz. Monterey Jack cheese 6 oz. Gruyere cheese 3 oz. Parmesan cheese Seasoned salt Black pepper

Instructions Set a small skillet to medium-low heat. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in the skillet. Cut the lobster meat into bite-sized pieces, and then slowly cook it in the butter.

In a large pot, melt 1½ sticks of butter. Once melted, add in the equal amount of flour to make the rue. It should look like a paste.

Allow the rue to cook a bit on low heat.

Set a small pot to medium heat. Add in the milk, seafood stock, and white wine, and allow it to warm. Once warm, add the liquid to the pot that contains the rue and whisk the components together until the mixture begins to thicken. Now, set a large pot of salted water to boil.

Shred all of the cheeses. To prevent a grainy sauce, it’s important to freshly shred the cheeses—pre-shredded cheese naturally forms a waxy barrier that is partially to blame for grainy cheese sauce

For the Old Bay Topping 3 oz. Parmesan cheese 2 cups panko breadcrumbs 2 tbs. Old Bay seasoning

texture. To the warm milk mixture, add all of the cream cheese, cheddar, Monterey Jack, Gruyere, and Parmesan cheeses along with seasoned salt and black pepper to taste. Stir until the cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is smooth.

Boil the pasta until it’s al dente while you prepare the Old Bay topping. In a medium skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Mix in the panko breadcrumbs and the Old Bay seasoning. Allow the panko breadcrumb mixture to brown a bit. Once browned, transfer it to a small bowl and toss with the Parmesan cheese. Set the oven to broil.

Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce. Next, mix about ⅔ of the cooked lobster into the pasta. Allow the components to marry for about 10 minutes. To serve, spoon the Lobster Mac & Cheese into individual ramekins, and then top them with the remaining lobster, followed by the Old Bay Topping.

­—66— NOV | DEC

Merry MARY Features Editor Elisabeth Ross Photographer David Christopher Lee

Mary Fitzgerald isn’t your average real estate agent or reality TV star, and it’s easy to see why she’s the fan-favorite on Netflix’s original series Selling Sunset, which follows one of Southern California’s most prestigious real estate brokerage firms: The Oppenheim Group (OG), located at the prestigious corner of Sunset Boulevard and Sunset Plaza Drive. As Vice President of OG, buying and selling luxury property is obviously her forte, yet Mary manages to do it all with a charming spunk that makes closing multimillion-dollar deals in the cut-throat Los Angeles and Orange County real estate market look as effortless as her darling bob cut.

MARY DRESS FROM STELLO JEWELRY FROM MARY’S OWN COLLECTION ROMAIN JACKET BY DTLA SHIRT BY SEBASTIAN CRUZ COUTURE PANTS BY TAILORED ATHLETE RING FROM ROMAIN’S OWN COLLECTION

MARY DRESS FROM STELLO JEWELRY FROM MARY’S OWN COLLECTION ROMAIN JACKET BY DTLA SHIRT BY SEBASTIAN CRUZ COUTURE PANTS BY TAILORED ATHLETE WATCH FROM ROMAIN’S OWN COLLECTION

­—69— NOV | DEC

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riginally from Indiana, Mary graduated from Ball State University before spending several years living in New York and London. There, she cut her teeth in the luxury real estate industry while working for the Candy brothers at their London headquarters and was involved with notable projects such as 1 Hyde Park. Since making Los Angeles her permanent home, Mary has been furthering her already decade-long career in real estate with The Oppenheim Group where she works closely with the firm’s president, Jason Oppenheim.

Selling Sunset premiered on Netflix in March of 2019, and Mary easily stood apart from her fellow OG castmates for her unrivaled work ethic, integrity, and honesty. In the finale of Season 2, Mary, in fact, sold her wedding venue on the big day, taking a break from getting ready to show the property where she tied the knot with then fiancé Romain Bonnet!

Between the jaw-dropping real estate, endless drama, fabulous clothes, and Mary’s darling fur babies Niko and Zelda, it’s no wonder that viewers can’t get enough of Selling Sunset. Season 3 wrapped in August of last year, fans are eagerly anticipating the premiere of Season 4, and Season 5 has also been confirmed with filming underway. The new season will premiere on November 24th.

“I think it’s going to be the best one yet!” she professes. “There’s so much that happened during that season. Most of us just came back since the pandemic so some of us hadn’t seen each other.” There have been a lot of changes and “there’s going to be a lot of drama for sure,” Mary chuckles, especially considering that there are two new faces joining the cast.

While Romain has been in the picture since the show’s inception, he has now formally joined The Oppenheim Group as a project manager. It’s been fun to watch Mary and Romain’s romance develop since Season 1—being progressively more involved in Mary’s line of work, coming on board in an official capacity just seemed like the most natural next step for Romain, and Mary is relishing how their professional relationship has evolved.

“We work really well together,” she says of their partnership. “It’s great because whenever I have clients that want to remodel their homes, or they buy and they want to do additions or change out the kitchen, whatever, I can call him.” The French model-turned project manager is incredibly detail-oriented, great about keeping people on track, and excels at maintaining timely schedules. “Romain is just incredible as a project manager because he, as I think you guys can see on the show, he really doesn’t take crap from anybody and he has no problem putting people in their place,” Mary recognizes. “He’s amazing in this role.”

Within the next six months to a year, “We’re hoping to start flipping houses together soon,” Mary shares. In the meantime, they have plenty of client projects to keep them busy. And there’s also their recent move to take into consideration. “Currently, we’re trying to organize to make room for more clothes because both of us just keep getting a ridiculous amount of wardrobe, especially with the show!” she laughs.

“We just keep getting more and more and more. And we thought we had plenty of room when we moved into here and we’re both like, ‘Yeah, we’re out of room.’ So, when we get another house, we’re definitely going

to have to have at least four bedrooms, all of them with massive, massive closets because now we have three but we’re out,” she admits with a giggle.

When it comes to their first flip, timing plays a huge role in how they’ll make that next move. “We’re both so, so busy with our clients’ stuff and with his work. We have to figure out how we’re going to fit that in too and actually be able to spend time, somewhat of time, together.” Even though they work together, their differing roles make it so that they’re not really together during the day. “We’re just, like, task-oriented, and we’re not actually enjoying each other’s company.”

Their work usually comes home with them. “It’s almost never-ending for both of us. But if we just can even sit in the same room or next to each other while we’re both doing it, we’ll take it!” Quality time just looks a little different for them right now. “But, you know, that’s what we admire most about each other: both of our work ethics. And so, I mean, it makes us proud of each other whenever we see each other just working ourselves to the ground. In a way, we’re very proud.”

A lot of people have found it challenging to coexist with their partners over the past year or so because of the lockdown imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic, but Mary and Romain seem to be better than ever. In fact, “It’s been both of our best years, Romain and myself, because the real estate market is on fire. There’s not enough inventory for all the buyers out there and it’s just a war zone. There is multiple offers and way over asking on almost every single property under, probably, five million. It’s pretty crazy. So for all of our sellers, they are loving it. But the buyers, it’s so difficult to represent buyers right now.”

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his past year and a half has also drastically changed the way we work, and the real estate industry is no exception.

“Not being able to do broker’s opens and open houses, that’s been somewhat of a challenge because it’s a great way to find new buyers and new clients when you’re in there. Then not having broker’s opens, that’s where all agents get a chance to go in right when it lists, so that you can see each property.” Not being able to pass along first-hand experience with a property leaves representatives like Mary unable to offer that vital personal perspective.

“I think for everybody I’ve talked to that are agents, it’s just like you almost feel like a bad agent because you can’t tell your client anything because you’re not allowed to get in there. You can do showings still! It just always has to be one at a time. Everyone had to be masked and gloved and stuff in the beginning. Now, masks are still required most of the time unless it’s a vacant property.”

Since people were stuck at home, many got to catch up on and check out new shows. “On the positive side,” of stay-at-home orders, Mary believes, “I think a lot of people ended up getting to watch our show that, you know, wouldn’t normally have had the time or even thought about if that wasn’t their genre of TV … but I’ve had so many people reach out to me saying, ‘I don’t normally watch reality, but I ran out of things to watch and watched it, and now it’s my favorite show!” The Oppenheim Group and Mary have even acquired new clients, such as French Montana, thanks to Selling Sunset.

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peaking of all things new, Mary and Romain moved into their Valley Village home in January of 2021. “It’s super private. It was completely gated, which was very important to me just for privacy and for safety for my dogs. And then we’ve got a big front yard that’s just so nice,” gushes Mary. “I’m from Indiana, and so, it’s very just tranquil and a lot of trees and you don’t feel like you’re in LA when you’re here. And for me, I’m running around all the time, super hectic. So when I get back here, it’s just like a little sanctuary—it just has a very peaceful feel. I love it! It’s all one level, which I love single-story homes. And then we’ve got like a little backyard area where I put a hot sauna bath. So that’s my little sanctuary there.” While they may be outgrowing their closet space there, the area continues to grow on them, and they intend to stay in the San Fernando Valley even with their next home.

But for now, with the holidays upon us, even Mary is looking forward to some much-needed nesting and the new traditions she has adopted with Romain. “We typically go see his parents in France every year,” at Christmastime.

“And so we’ll spend Thanksgiving with our family here and then we go out there for Christmas,” since Romain’s parents don’t celebrate Thanksgiving. Truly a best of both worlds’ situation—who wouldn’t love a French Christmas? “It’s just so beautiful out there and his family is just incredible. So I really love being able to not only go to France, but also spending time with his family—I just absolutely adore them.”

Family, friends, home—these are the blessings Mary Fitzgerald holds dear. The holidays are a time to count those blessings and spend time with all who enrich our lives for the better.

MARY DRESS FROM STELLO JEWELRY FROM MARY’S OWN COLLECTION ROMAIN JACKET BY DTLA SHIRT BY SEBASTIAN CRUZ COUTURE PANTS BY TAILORED ATHLETE BOWTIE FROM ROMAIN’S OWN COLLECTION

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NOV | DEC

LUX lifestyle Horoscopes

COSTARS Astrologer Shari Schopp @shari_starlight www.eyeonastrology.com

Scorpio

Sagittarius

October 24th to November 21st

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Goals can be achieved when you surrender, rather than control others.

Focus your energy from past research and share factual information. This turns opposing opinions into opportunities and opens up new networks. Scorpio, a passionate, regenerating, emotional truth seeker, is a fixed water sign.

The scorpion has three levels of transformation: birth/death, renewal, and resurrection. These natives embrace getting to the depths of what matters most and what is real. For emotional serenity, try ylang-ylang aromatherapy and mud baths.

Capricorn

December 22nd to January 19th

Focus your time and energy to accomplish everything on your to-do list.

Your values towards personal aesthetics are changing. Renovate your image with a magnetic sense of creativity.

Aquarius

January 20th to February 18th

A shift in energy reminds you to practice self-care and redirect your ingenuity to work through what matters. Adjustments may be needed to balance your choices and duties so you can get down to business.

Pisces

February 19th to March 20th

Network with others for feedback, support, and new means of empowerment. Group work with women opens up creative outlets and clarifies future ideas for implementation.

November 22nd to December 21st

Aries

March 21st to April 19th

Your stamina allows for navigating a new way forward with a career or colleagues. Prospects appear when you review and streamline issues regarding business ventures or situations.

Taurus

April 20th to May 20th

Being honest and direct will trigger a totally different approach. New connections and possibilities open doors and are advantageous for widening your sphere, showcasing personal talents.

Gemini

May 21st to June 21st

Focus on balancing your workload by breaking it down into tasks. Be flexible. Strategize your obligations with community, friends, family, and self by sowing seeds of understanding.

Cancer

June 22nd to July 22nd

Bravery is needed to gain freedom.

Relieve problems by letting go of the past. Grow strength by exploring deep, intense emotions and working constructively with your feelings and beliefs.

Use your excess physical energy in healthy ways to avoid irritation. Go inward for reflective contemplation and to stay centered. This creates structures to support dreams and intentions as more responsibilities come your way.

A mutable fire sign, Sagittarius is symbolized by the archer, a centaur with a bow and arrow aimed skyward. He’s a healer whose intelligence creates a channel between heaven and earth, which represents emerging consciousness with the freedom to act. Try Pilates or Thai massage for healing energy.

Leo

July 23rd to August 22nd

Reassess your work and home life along with what’s needed to de-escalate conflicts with people. Restore creative enthusiasm by reintroducing passion and play, then share this generosity with others.

Virgo

August 23rd to September 22nd

Dive below the surface to unveil the information needed to make your ideas a reality. Don’t overthink. Stay receptive and present. Try to relax and worry less for a better experience.

Libra

September 23rd to October 23rd

Simplify your designs and consider the risks involved to transform projects into earnings. Be aware of toxic power struggles by connecting with the subconscious mind to assist and strengthen cooperation.