Bellevue, WA May 2024

The Women's Issue

ARTS + CULTURE

A BEAUTIFUL JOURNEY

LIFE + CULTURE

WOMEN OF NOTE

EDUCATION

EMPOWERING FEMALE FOUNDERS

West of Market View Home

May 2024

As publisher and editor of two magazines (Bellevue Lifestyle and Kirkland Lifestyle), and as a mother of two (2 year old girl, and 7 year old boy); the word ‘busy’ has taken on a whole new meaning.   I have a new appreciation for all mothers now that I’m “in it.”  I love the serendipity that my first issue back managing editorial content is our Women’s issue.  Bree stepped in as full-time editor while I was in my hurricane years of infant/early tod dler life, and she did a wonderful job managing content.  I’m grateful to still have her as part of the team as a contributing writer.

I love any opportunity to recognize the women in our lives who have made an indelible impact on us. And not just mothers, but also business leaders, teachers, family members, friends and neighbors doing awesome things in our communities and pouring into our lives.

In the photo above I'm pictured with my mom and daughter on Mother’s Day last year.  My mom was a nurse for her entire career, and upon “retirement” volunteered for the Red Cross and local free clinic and is still on constant call for her 9 grandbabies when any sickness or injury arises.  We’re more than lucky to have the gift of her wisdom, love, and constant care.

I hope you’ll take a few minutes to send a text, make a phone call or get your kids on a video call with the women in your life who deserve recognition. It only takes a minute to brighten someone’s day and remind them how much you love them.

Corporate Team

PERSONALIZE YOUR NEW HOME THROUGH THE MN PRESALES PROGRAM

Chandni Maloo

Healthy Hair is the best

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

The Lakehouse Spring Release Kickoff featuring Dossier 1: The stylish setting beckoned Bellevue’s fashion elite. 2: Decadent bites by The Lakehouse culinary team. 3: Sipping and pouring the night away with Lakehouse sommelier Simon Pringle. 4: Layers of sophisticated flavor in every bite. 5: Guests sampled Dossier’s upcoming unreleased club wines and also current award-winning releases. 6: Lakehouse Executive Chef Kevin Benner and Dossier’s Sidney Rice. 7: Dossier founders Sidney Rice and Tim Lenihan. Photography by AFTER95 Creative

Want to be seen in the magazine?

Bellevue College Foundation Gala 8: Bellevue College Foundation’s annual gala held on Saturday, March 9, 2024 at Bellevue College. 9: Executive Director, Melissa Johnson, with members of the Board of Directors Zahra Hirani, Maria Villa-Wigfall and Shairose Gulamani. 10: Joceline Mwepu, Ariane Mwazaz and Angie Kulenduka strike a pose at the fundraising event featuring glitz, glamour, and fun. 11: Bellevue College Foundation Gala guests enjoy themselves awaiting dinner and a live auction. 12: Keynote Bellevue College student speaker and scholarship recipient, Brenda Tirado, with mother, Maria L. Tirado. 13: Cherry Chao Foundation Gala Committee member, Grace Yu with Realogics Sotheby’s, Juliet Zhang and Lynch Yao. 14: Bellevue College President Dr. David May with former Washington state governor and interim Bellevue College President Gary Locke. Photography by Tawfiq Abdulaziz/Original Studios, LLC

Old Bellevue Spring Wine Walk Is Happening on May 9th

Looking for a fun event in May? Join us in Old Bellevue for our annual Spring Wine Walk on Thursday, May 9th from 4pm – 8pm.  Sip delicious vintages from 18 wineries who have partnered with our fabulous merchants to provide excellent wines in our unique location in the heart of Old Bellevue. To participate, register at https://bit.ly/OBWW. VIP tickets $55 (4pm-8pm) - 90 minutes exclusive access with appetizers and General tickets $35 (5:30pm-8pm).

Refine Beauty Unveils Newest Location at Avenue Bellevue

Refine Beauty unveils its newest location at Avenue Bellevue across from the new Intercontinental Hotel. Unwind in style at Bellevue’s luxury beauty salon opening this summer. Treat yourself to top-notch hair services and beautifully sculpted manicures and pedicures designed to leave you feeling refreshed and revitalized. Get ready to experience beauty like never before in a laidback, upscale atmosphere, where you can celebrate all of life’s special moments and everyday occasions.

Celebrate Mother's Day Brunch at Bellden: Flowers, Empowerment, and Community

Join us at Bellden Cafe this Mother's Day for an unforgettable brunch experience. Delight in our newly unveiled breakfast menu, featuring locally sourced, innovative dishes that cater to all palates. This special day is also the launch of our transformative flower subscription program, a heartwarming initiative supporting women experiencing homelessness through training at Sophia's Day Shelter. Indulge in culinary excellence while contributing to a cause that changes lives—one flower at a time.

Photography by Nate Gowdy

Photography by The Bellden Team

Persimmon Design

monthly

Elevate Mother’s Day Brunch to Ascend Prime Steak & Sushi

Moms and mother figures everywhere are invited to dine on the 31st floor at Ascend Prime for Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 12 from 10am to 3:30pm. The award-winning restaurant is offering its all-inclusive Carts & Carousels table-side brunch to celebrate matriarchs in the sky. Guests will also enjoy a DIY bouquet-making station as well as a marquee photo moment to commemorate the day. $145 per person, $40 for children ages 5-12. Reservations at ascendprime.com

Photography by Ascend Prime Steak + Sushi

Lochwood-Lozier: Local Builder Takes Home Three National Awards

Lochwood-Lozier Custom Homes and Remodeling achieved remark able success at the NAHB Remodeling Awards show during the IBS/KBIS event earlier this year. The esteemed company walked away with three prestigious awards, reaffirming its commitment to excellence and innovation in the remodeling indus try: Best Kitchen Remodel Over $300k, Best Outdoor Living, and Most Creative Use of Living Space. Additionally, one of their projects was selected as a runner up for Best Whole House Remodel over $2M.

Photography by LochwoodLozier Custom Homes

A BEAUTIFUL JOURNEY

Chandni Maloo moved here from India in 2018 and unexpectedly built a large social media following amid building a new life in America. Although she has always been inclined towards creativity and design, she never would’ve planned that her journey would lead her to sharing beauty tips with hundreds of thousands of social media followers.  Bellevue Lifestyle asked Chandni to share some details of her journey.

HOW DO YOU THINK LIVING IN AMERICA HAS CHANGED YOU?

I was very excited to explore a new country and gain great experiences, meet new people, and learn about so many new cultures. Living in the United States has changed me

in so many ways.  Exposure to a diverse culture here has broadened my perspective in understanding of different customs, beliefs, and ways of life. Living away from home made me independent and self-reliant, and experiencing a multicultural society made me more aware of diversity, equality, and social issues. I became more empathetic and understanding.  My experiences, traveling, and meeting so many people with different backgrounds have brought me so much joy.

WHAT HAVE BEEN YOUR BIGGEST CHALLENGES?

Adapting to a new culture and lifestyle was challenging. I was homesick and missing my family, friends, and the familiar surroundings

ARTICLE BY CAITLIN AGNEW | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LIFE N LIGHT

back in India. Then adjusting to the cost of living, housing expenses, healthcare costs, were significant challenges.  Establishing new social networks, making new friends, and building a support system in this country was an effort initially.  The U.S. healthcare system, insurance coverage, and medical services can be daunting for newcomers. Also, physical and emotional adjustment because of climate changes.

WHAT DO YOU WISH MORE PEOPLE IN OUR COMMUNITY KNEW ABOUT INDIAN CULTURE?

I wish more people were aware of many things about Indian culture, including: family values, hospitality, spirituality, festive celebrations, heritage, cuisines, traditions, attires, respect for elders, innovation and technology.  I think by understanding more they can foster cross-cultural, respect diversity, and build more connections with individuals from the Indian community.

YOU ARE A “BEAUTY INFLUENCER” AND HAVE GROWN A LARGE SOCIAL MEDIA FOLLOWING.  CAN YOU SHARE HOW YOU GOT STARTED?

It all started after my postpartum depression after my second boy was born and I

wanted to have some me time. I was always very passionate about self-care and make up, so I started recording and posting on social media.  Initially I started by posting the techniques on how to do your own makeup and importance of skincare. Slowly and organically, I managed to grow my social media account to where it is now; I am grateful and blessed to be loved by so many amazing people.

YOU HOPE TO BE A POSITIVE IMPACT ON WOMEN. CAN YOU SHARE SOME OF YOUR THOUGHTS ON THAT?

Women empowerment is indeed a crucial and significant topic and is close to my heart.  Empowering women involves challenging and breaking stereotypes, societal norms, and biases that limit women’s potential and restrict their opportunities for growth and development. I come from a country where women go through a lot and they don’t even realize it because it’s so normal for them, but I want to empower every woman to feel confident, believe in their abilities and encourage them to pursue their goals and dreams.

For more info, follow @enhancebychand on Instagram.

Priyanka Kasliwal Chopra is a local clothing designer who designed all the clothes Chandni is pictured in.  Priyanka is an exclusive designer label for women.  With offices in Sammamish and India, she designs and ships worldwide.  For more information and to see more designs, follow @priyankasignaturecouture on Instagram.

Lehenga (pink and blue outfit):

From the looms of Banaras, a work of art.  In hues of tradition, embellished with heritage, the Banarasi silk lehenga captures hearts.

Saree (yellow and black outfit):

This saree is a masterpiece of handpainted art, showcasing intricate motifs, vibrant colors, and meticulous detailing. The designs depict scenes from nature and folklore adding depth and storytelling to the fabric.

Traditional Jewelry:

Borla Maang Tikka (head jewelry)  Nathni (nose pin)

Gokhroo Bangles (hand bangles)  Jhumki (earrings)

WO M EN

Have you ever thought about starting your own business? Or writing songs and singing for a living? How about writing a book? Or committing yourself to doing good for your community? Read on to hear from phenomenal local women who have done these very things. You may be in awe of their accomplishments, or you may be inspired to take on your next big thing!

THESE LOCAL WOMEN ARE DOING AMAZING THINGS, IN BELLEVUE AND BEYOND.

ARTICLE BY BREE O’BRIEN

Quyen Dang

Owner of FogRose Atelier

I spent 11 years as a Civil Engineer before launching my first business in a completely different industry. Starting as a liquid nitrogen ice cream shop, we quickly transitioned to a dessert lounge emphasizing afternoon tea. The pandemic steered our business into events and catering which we embraced. I’m excited for our future as we expand our offerings and attract new investors.

WHY ENTREPRENEURSHIP, AND WHY DESSERTS?

I’m drawn to the creative and problem-solving aspects of entrepreneurship. I like creating concepts and systems to execute them. Dessert is something I understand well - how it’s meant to be enjoyed and what it means to people: A happy ending to a meal, perhaps a shared experience with someone. Dessert is a celebration whether there is a reason or not. To me, that is worth investing in.

WHAT GOALS ARE YOU WORKING TOWARD?

I’m looking for investors and the right partnerships to scale and expand our market share in retail and event production.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE FUTURE ENTREPRENEURS?

Let your intentions be known and be prepared to work harder than you have ever worked for someone else.

Photo courtesy of Quyen Dang

Kellie Rose Demmel

Singer/Songwriter

A lifelong “big feeler”, Kellie Rose penned her first song at five or six years old. Her mom was a piano teacher and dad played drums, so she was exposed to music and instruments early. The youngest of four kids, KR - as she’s known to friends - is “mostly” from the Pacific Northwest, though she attended high school in London. After her return to the US, she worked in property management for about five years before feeling called to switch to music. A primarily self-taught guitarist and singer, KR had her first gig at Third Culture Coffee in Bellevue.

KR says of songwriting, “When the inspiration strikes, you just have to write the song,” and she can simply sit down and write. She supports herself performing 15 gigs a month, mostly on the Eastside. Her big dream performance venue is London’s Wembley Stadium, and she’d also love to perform at the Paramount, Crocodile Cafe, or Triple Door in Seattle. You can find her music on your favorite streaming platform, and her gig schedule is on her website, where you can also reach out to her for custom songwriting. kellierose.com

Photo: Corben Ketelsen/Advoglobal

Justina Chen Award-winning Author, Speechwriter, and Story Strategist

Though Chen, a wife and mother, has been writing since childhood - completing a 50-page novella in second grade - she recalls one of her professors at Stanford telling her that she had no talent and would never be published. Feeling discouraged about a writing career, she joined the corporate world, only writing as a hobby. Eventually, and with the right support, Chen penned and published her first book, and the rest is history. As to why she’s devoted much of her career to YA books, she says, “So much of who we are as adults and what we believe, is there at that teenage moment.”

Her first novel for middle grade readers comes out on May 7, With Twice the Love, Dessie Mei . It’s a tale inspired by Chen’s conversations and experiences with adoptees. “I never thought I had the voice for that age group, but this story tapped on my heart,” she says. Chen enthuses about the talented local writing community and the support it provides - she exchanges manuscripts of works-inprogress with another local author for feedback and finds a lot of value in the process.  For any aspiring authors out there, Chen recommends reading all the time, across genres!

Photo: Dan Johnson

Linda Hoffner  Community Champion

I have two sons, Parker and Coleton and my husband, Andrew. I’m a General Manager at Wright Runstad & Company overseeing The Spring District development in the Bel-Red corridor of Bellevue. I also cohost the podcast, “Whatever She’s Having” with my bestie and Community Champion Claire Sumadiwirya.

I served as Mrs. Washington America 2020 during the global pandemic. That’s where I found Habitat for Humanity, one of the only non-profits accepting outdoor volunteers. I still serve on their Resource Development Committee, participating in annual build events and winning the 2023 “Resource Development All-Star Award.”

My time as Mrs. Washington America ignited a passion in me for serving the community: I’m on the Boards of Directors for Rainier Athletes and the Bellevue Chamber. I also support the Resource Development Committees for The Sophia Way and mentor women competing in the Washington America Pageants program.

Professionally, I oversee nearly 2M SF of completed office and retail space that’s leased out, and manage the related condominium association in the 36-acre development site. My passion is community building and working with public/private partnerships to facilitate effective placemaking in an urban environment. In 2023, I was honored to be among Puget Sound Business Journal’s AND 425 Business Magazine’s “40 under 40.”

Chef John E. Thompson

Destination: DOWNTOWN

A SHORT STAYCATION IS JUST THE THING SOMETIMES

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY BREE O’BRIEN

Spectating at The Nineteenth

After months of talking about a Girls Night Out, two of my best girlfriends and I decided to make it a priority - there’s nothing like time spent with longtime friends to refresh your soul. After painstakingly nailing down a date (accounting for kids’ and husbands’ schedules), the next question was: Where?

The answer: Downtown Seattle. We only had one night after all and wanted to spend our time enjoying ourselves rather than driving. We chose Hotel 1000 as our homebase for its walkability to amenities

like Pike Place Market and the Seattle Art Museum; and its onsite features: Rosebay cocktail bar, a spa, and The Nineteenth with golf simulators and lounge.

First up were wonderful massages at the Spa at Hotel 1000. We enjoyed a welcoming aroma ritual at the front desk followed by pre-treatment foot soaks, and ended our visit with a few minutes in the sauna.

After a quick change, we headed to The Nineteenth. Following one fun golf round on the simulator, we switched to Zombie Dodgeball which was a hoot.

We hit up Rosebay for pre-dinner cocktails, beautiful concoctions in a low-key and elegant setting; then walked to Il

Bistro for dinner. As cozy and charming as ever, Il Bistro has the best ambience, and food to match. Enroute back to the hotel, we stopped at Diller Room for a nightcap. The historic bar serves classic cocktails to a diverse crowd.

Saturday morning we opted for light bites and espresso at the Storyville coffee shop right across from our hotel before heading to the Seattle Art Museum to take in Native American visual artist Jaune Quick-to-See Smith’s Memory Map retrospective (Open through May 12, see it if you can)!

What a delight to spend 22 hours in the city with friends!

The Wanderlust cocktail at Rosebay

Reading the menu at Il Bistro

Three's company

Wendy Red Star's Áakiiwilaxpaake (People of the Earth) at the SAM

ARTICLE BY CAITLIN AGNEW | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LIFE N LIGHT

founders Empowering Female

A BELLEVUE PROJECT AIMS TO CLOSE GENDER GAPS AND FOSTER OPPORTUNITY FOR WOMEN BUSINESS OWNERS.

Richa Rai is a proud Bellevue resident passionate about empowering others. She is currently on sabbatical from her career as a Product Management Executive, with experience at companies such as Microsoft, Kaiser Permanente, and F5. Outside of work, Richa finds fulfillment in teaching, volunteering, and mentoring, and is dedicated to empowering others, which is what led her to participating in the Bellevue Essentials Program.

“We want more women business founders in our community because entrepreneurship can promise both financial and personal freedom. Additionally, women bosses make excellent employers because they understand the delicate balance of family responsibilities. Furthermore, they serve as inspiring role models for future generations by breaking gender stereotypes.”

Tell us about your volunteer project with Bellevue Essentials Program

A pivotal question posed to me by Mayor Robinson during the launch of the Bellevue Essentials Program inspired my volunteer project. She sought insights into the challenges women business founders face and avenues for the city to empower them to establish thriving, long-term businesses. As a result of this question, I immersed myself in networking, conducting interviews with entrepreneurs, and engaging diverse stakeholders to gain a holistic view of empowering sustainable businesses in our community.

Ultimately, what is the goal of your project?

We want more women business founders in our community because entrepreneurship can promise both financial and personal freedom. Additionally, women bosses make excellent employers because they understand the delicate balance of family responsibilities. Furthermore, they serve as inspiring role models for future generations by breaking gender stereotypes.

What are some challenges faced by women business founders?

I’ve identified distinct challenges faced by women business founders in brick-and-mortar stores compared to those in tech startups.

For brick-and-mortar owners, rising commercial real estate prices and competition from big brands are pressing concerns threatening their sustainability.

For tech startups, women founders worry about month-to-month survival due to funding disparities. Shockingly, companies founded by women received just 2.1% of venture capital funding in the US. Most women tech founders lack access to relevant connections with investors and likeminded entrepreneurs.

My project aims to address these gaps by advocating for supportive policies and fostering opportunities tailored to the specific needs of each group.

How can the community get involved?

The community can show support by purchasing from local women-owned businesses, offering pro bono services, volunteering, donating, and simply spreading awareness.  Even small gestures contribute to closing gender gaps.

For further inquiries contact richarai@hotmail.com

MAY 2024

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

MAY 2ND

Bellevue Farmers Market is Back!

Bellevue Presbyterian Church | 3:00 PM

Opening day is here! The Bellevue Farmers Market offers a unique mix of vendors selling seasonal fruits & vegetables, cut flowers, fresh meats, one-of-a-kind artisan goods and tasty cuisine all locally sourced within our great state of Washington. Enjoy fun activities for kids, live music, and community programs all while supporting locally. For more information visit https://bellevuefarmersmarket.org/.

MAY 18TH AND JUNE 1ST

Experience Bellevue!

BelRed Neighborhood and Spring District | 10:00 AM

Join a walking tour to explore the flourishing BelRed Arts District. Discover the Bellevue Botanical Gardens and enjoy a forest bathing experience. Finish the day at the Spring District Family Festival on the Plaza, 11:30 am to 2 pm with live music, food trucks and kids’ activities. All tours are free but require a reservation. For more information visit bellevuewa. gov/experiencebellevue

MAY 18TH

2024 Champions of Youth Gala + Auction

Hyatt Regency Bellevue | 6:00 PM

The BBGC 2024 Champions of Youth Gala on May 18th promises an evening of unforgettable stories, exclusive auctions, and the unveiling of their Champions of Youth award recipient. Funds raised during the event directly contribute to scholarships, ensuring all youth have access to essential services. Those unable to attend can still make a difference by donating today! More information and tickets visit BGCBellevue.org/Gala.

Radiant Mom: A Guide to Skincare for Busy Moms

INCLUSIVE AESTHETICS OWNER, GRACE CHAPMAN, SHARES HER MOST POPULAR TREATMENTS, JUST IN TIME FOR MOTHER’S DAY.

Microneedling

A treatment that consists of controlled injury to the skin, using very small needles, triggering a healing response from the body that results in stimulation and production of collagen for a smoother, firmer, more toned skin.

Grace Chapman, Inclusive Aesthetics Owner

Light Chemical Peel

A superficial chemical peel removes the outer layer of the skin, it helps with the appearance of fine lines, acne, uneven tone and texture. Safe for all skin types and genders.

Wrinkle Relaxer

Wrinkle relaxing treatments are a simple procedure that can dramatically soften facial expression lines, frown lines and crow’s feet.

Diamondglow

A microdermabrasion facial that deeply cleans and rejuvenates the skin. The treatment helps to gently exfoliate, extract, and infuse the skin with serums specific to individual skin needs. The serums help hydrate, nourish, and protect the skin.

Lip Flip

A lip flip is a quick, nonsurgical cosmetic procedure that uses neurotoxin such as Botox or Jeuveau to make your upper lip look fuller.

For more information visit skinbygrace.com

S P R I N G S A L E S

S O L D F O R

$ 1 , 8 9 2 , 6 0 0

B o t h e l l C r a f t s m a n

R e p r e s e n t e d B u y e r - S t r a t e g i c a l l y w o n

o v e r 9 o f f e r s

S O L D F O R

$ 8 8 3 , 0 0 0

R e d m o n d R i v e r t r a i l T o w n h o m e

R e p r e s e n t e d B u y e r

S O L D F O R

$ 9 3 5 , 0 0 0

K e n m o r e T o w n h o m e

R e p r e s e n t e d S e l l e r - O f f M a r k e t

S O L D F O R

$ 7 7 5 , 0 0 0

W e s t S e a t t l e N e w C o n s t r u c t i o n

R e p r e s e n t e d B u y e r

T h e s p r i n g r e a l e s t a t e m a r k e t h a s p r o v e n t o b e e x c e p t i o n a l l y f a s t - p a c e d

a n d c o m p e t i t i v e f o r p r o s p e c t i v e h o m e b u y e r s . I n t h i s c l i m a t e , i t i s c r u c i a l

t o a l i g n y o u r s e l f w i t h a d e d i c a t e d a g e n t w h o c a n e x p e r t l y g u i d e y o u

t h r o u g h t h e h o m e b u y i n g j o u r n e y a n d s k i l l f u l l y a d v o c a t e f o r y o u r b e s t

i n t e r e s t s d u r i n g n e g o t i a t i o n s T h e F e r r e r a T e a m i s r e a d y t o a s s i s t y o u i n

f i n d i n g y o u r i d e a l h o m e . D o n ' t h e s i t a t e t o c on t a c t u s t o d a y t o

b e g i n t h e s e a r c h f o r y o u r d r e a m h o m e !

C a t h e r i n e F e r r e r a , M a n a g i n g B r o k e r

2 0 6 5 7 9 1 0 7 7 / c a t h e r i n e @ f e r r e r a t e a m c o m

M c K e n n a F e r r e r a , R e a l E s t a t e B r o k e r

4 2 5 . 8 9 1 . 1 9 5 5 / m c k e n n a @ f e r r e r a t e a m . c o m

Architect Jim Dearth with Ripple Design

designer Marianne Simon Design