The Kids Issue!
FEATURING SOPHIE PIERCE OF SOPHIE DANCE AND HER ADORABLE DAUGHTERS
PLUS COMMAND EDUCATION’S GUIDE TO COLLEGE ADMISSIONS, BRENTWOOD’S NEWEST SANDWICH SPOT, FINDING THE PERFECT NANNY AND MORE
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Family First!
It’s August and in our household, this means one thing: Back to School! I always find myself surprised when the summer comes so quickly to an end, and the anticipation of another busy fall season begins. Fittingly, we decided to devote this issue to all things kids—a subject that holds a very special place in my heart. As a mother of three young boys, my children are my world, and I can never get enough tips, ideas or advice.
Children also play a huge role in shaping our community, whether you have little ones at home or not. My husband and I were particularly drawn to Brentwood because of its strong family focus and small-town feel, and I know that so many readers feel the same. We are so lucky to live in an area with so many incredible options for kids—whether going to the Brentwood Country Mart for stores like Poppy and Toy Crazy followed by a courtyard meal (chicken tenders and corn at Reddi-Chick are our personal fave); taking an idyllic Sunday stroll at the Brentwood Farmers' Market; or partaking in all of the great local activities, sports and enrichment programs. My boys have been loving classes at Tae Ryong Taekwondo, which just opened a new location on Montana Avenue in addition to its well-known Brentwood spot—it’s so good for focus and discipline, and of course a lot of fun! And then there is Sophie Pierce of Sophie Dance. Since opening in Brentwood Town Center a few years ago, Pierce’s studio has become the go-to spot for dancers of all ages on the westside. This June when she held her annual recital, it seemed like every other person I knew was posting videos of their tiny ballerinas on Instagram—I’m sure you saw it, too! I loved photographing Pierce with her three beautiful daughters for the cover and learning more about her personal story.
Brentwood is also home to incredible schools. In this issue, we highlight Brentwood Presbyterian Church Preschool, a wonderful program that has been part of the community for more than 75 years, as well as Big and Tiny 10th Street Preschool, newly owned by Brentwood resident Keltse Bilbao. And for older children, college is of course top of mind. I am so grateful to our friends at Command Education, who are truly the best college consultants and mentors around. Their step-by-step guide to the admissions process is a must-read for any parent, wherever your kids are on their educational journeys. We also feature nanny tips from the Help Company, visit “momfluencer” Samantha Gutstadt’s favorite local places and check out Brentwood’s latest hotspots, Malou Coffee and Nikó Sando.
As always with Brentwood, there is something for everyone.
AMANDA
EBERSTEIN, PUBLISHER
August 2025
PUBLISHER
Amanda Eberstein | amanda.eberstein@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Laura SanchezQuan
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Carole Dixon, Patricia Taft
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Andrade Visuals, Trish Alison, Mara Friedman, Bobby Laumea, Rachel Lewis, Leo Maglalang
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
inside the issue
Departments
It Takes Two
A pair of Japanese-style casual dining spots, Nikó Sando and Malou Coffee, have taken over a once-quiet corner in the heart of Brentwood
24 30 36
Making its Mark
Brentwood Presbyterian Church Preschool brings warmth, guidance and character to the early childhood years
On Point
With the founding of her namesake studio, Sophie Dance, Sophie Pierce is not only fulfilling a childhood dream—she’s inspiring the next generation
Getting into the Ivy League takes more than just good grades and top test scores—here, Command Education’s guide to admissions success at every stage
Sophie Pierce of Sophie Dance at her Brentwood studio with her three daughters, all wearing Dôen from the Brentwood Country Mart.
Trish Alison
BRENTWOOD, LOS ANGELES
Family Homes. Data Source: theMLS. Time Frame: June 1-30, 2025.
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: LA District Attorney Nathan Hochman and Sheila Morovati, founder of Crayon Collection, at the launch event for the organization’s community art initiative, Banners of Hope. 2: The project features student-created art from schools affected by the Palisades Fire, displayed on light pole banners throughout Brentwood and the Palisades. 3: Rummy Goodyear, a 14-year-old local student and founder of the Seed Bomb Project, which helps re-green the community by distributing native wildflower seeds. 4: Juliet Herman of Palisades Charter Elementary School, Kathleen Gaudet and Dr. Latanya Reeves of Marquez Charter Elementary School, Alana Levitt of Kehillat Israel Early Childhood Center and Laura Bieber of Methodist Preschool. 5: Beloved local real estate agents Shelton Wilder and Molly Swing. 6: Musician Joe Sumner—who also lost his home in the fires—performed his song “Hope.” 7: Robyn Casady and Katie Fine.
Photography by Rachel Lewis
1: Big and Tiny 10th Street Preschool in Santa Monica welcomed families at the end of the school year for its special Culmination Celebration. 2: This annual tradition marks the closing of a year-long exploration of a single country—in this case India—and gives children the opportunity to share their incredible learning journey. 3: Big and Tiny 10th Street’s assistant director Jessica Stromberg with her son, Pre-K graduate Jax.
4: Parent
with his kids. 5: Three generations! Nicole Sabourian with her mother and son. 6: Brandis Johnson and her children.
7: Ananya Rathan and daughter.
Patrick Marsden
Photography by Andrade Visuals
city scene
CONTINUED
1: Philanthropist and arts patron Merle Mullin (left, with Beth Hanson) hosted an intimate gathering at her Brentwood estate in support of Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services. 2: Danielle Serrano, Jasmine Haddaway and Robin Hyerstay with Claudia Kahn of the Help Company.
3: Nancy Rubin, daughter of Didi Hirsch, and author and community leader Leslie Gilbert-Lurie. 4: Andrew Berman, Lyn Morris, CEO of Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services, and Sara Rutenberg. 5: Retired Didi Hirsch CEO Kita Curry and Jacqueline Caster. 6: Steve Mitchel, Melissa Rivers, Glen Friedman and Louisa Bryson. 7: Nicole Callahan and Elizabeth Schulhof.
Photography by Leo Maglalang
1: Actress Tia Carrere at Determined to Succeed’s 3rd annual School’s Out for Summer benefit event at the Jonathan Beach Club. 2: The nonprofit supports highly motivated, first-generation, low-income students in LA achieve their dreams of college and beyond. 3: Determined to Succeed college student Jasmine Hernandez, DTS Board Chair Jordana Jaffe and the evening’s MC, actress Daniela Ruah. 4: DTS college students Diego Gallardo and Alicia Lopez. 5: Board member Ashley Glacel and longevity expert Elise Joan. 6: Eli Neandross and Arpita and Neeloy Devani. 7: Actor and comedian Leonard Robinson.
Photography by Bobby Laumea
Iconic
business monthly
A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES
New Agenda: Empowering Individuals with Executive Functioning Challenges
With almost 60 years combined experience, licensed speech-language pathologist Maria DelCorso and Amie Davies, a master’s level special education teacher—both with specializations in neurodivergent learner patterns and ADHD—founded executive function coaching practice New Agenda. New Agenda empowers clients ages 9-99 years with ADHD and executive function challenges to discover their strengths, take charge of their goals and create meaningful, lasting change—whether working on school success, college readiness, parenting or other life skills. Reach out today for a consultation. 730 Arizona Ave., Santa Monica; 804-223-0130; newagendacoaching.com
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Artkive Turns Your Kids’ Art into Stunning Keepsake Books
Wondering what to do with artwork from the end of the school year? Artkive takes children’s art and turns it into beautiful books or framed mosaics. Just order an Artkive box, send it back and Artkive does the rest—from professionally photographing every piece to laying out a proof to printing the final result. Kids love seeing their art in a book and it’s a great gift, too! Use code “Brentwood” at checkout for $25 off. help@artkivebox.com, artkivebox.com .
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Reconstruction Recovery Advisors: Helping Families Recover and Rebuild
With over 40 years in large-loss reconstruction and insurance claims, Reconstruction Recovery Advisors is the go-to resource for recovering and rebuilding after the Palisades Fire. Founder Kelly Konzelman spent his career in California assisting survivors of the Thomas, Tubbs, Woolsey, Camp and Dixie fires, and also specializes in real estate development and construction management. Recovery starts with a single step—RRA will ensure you get every dollar. Contact now for a free consultation and claim review. 800-298-6978; rraadvisors.com
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Contourology on the McCord List Today Show
Victoria Kseniya Simon, CEO and founder of Contourology in Brentwood Village, made a special appearance on the McCord List Today Show podcast hosted by media personality Rachel McCord. Filmed at Studio Place in Brentwood, the segment covered Contourology’s cutting-edge wellness offerings and modalities, focusing on how to get your body ready for summer. So what did Simon do to prepare? Contourology’s signature lifting facial and collagen boost treatment, followed by a lymphatic drainage massage, naturally. 11636 Barrington Ct.; 213-667-0708; contourologyla.com
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ReloomVR: Capturing Life’s Precious Moments
ReloomVR’s groundbreaking technology offers immersive virtual reality keepsakes of weddings, bar mitzvahs and other meaningful milestones—allowing people to truly relive these once-in-a-lifetime moments. The world’s only 360-degree moving VR video production company, ReloomVR captures it all—from the emotion of the ceremony to the energy of the dance floor to every laugh, tear and glance. The result is like stepping back into your own story, experiencing every unforgettable detail for years to come. info@reloomVR.com; reloomvr.com
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Navigating Disaster Recovery
Finding honest, experienced, and professional service providers after a disaster can be a daunting task. Properly valuing the correct replacement cost for damaged homes and buildings is even more difficult. If you’ve been impacted by the Palisades or Eaton fires, we are here to help.
Your Trusted Recovery Partner
Reconstruction Recovery Advisors are an experienced team of builders and insurance professionals dedicated to ensuring disaster victims’ best interests are properly represented so that they can recover and rebuild. Our team of recovery specialists, with decades of experience assisting survivors of the Thomas, Tubbs, Woolsey, Camp, and Dixie fires, will guide you through the valuation, settlement, design, engineering, and plan check process.
Comprehensive Solutions for Recovery
From line-item estimates through construction management, we offer solutions that help you recover and rebuild quickly and as painlessly as possible. Schedule a free consultation for compassionate guidance on your insurance claim and support on your path to recovery.
MY TOWN: SAMANTHA GUTSTADT
“Capsule Shop is like a personal stylist and store all in one. I can always find perfectly curated looks made for preschool pickup, soccer games and PTA meetings. They carry my favorite brands that are made for mom life.”
11640 San Vicente Blvd., #109; 310-984-1234; capsuleshoponline.com
“Poppy Store has the cutest kids’ clothes and most adorable brands this side of the 405, all tiny sized from newborn through elementary school. I love getting new moms gifts from here.”
225 26th St.; 310-260-4777; poppystores.com
“When they know your name and custom salad, you know you’re a regular. Barney’s Gourmet Hamburgers at the Brentwood Country Mart is a fave for us all— my kids love the burgers, steak fries and chicken tenders.”
225 26th St.; 310-899-0133; barneyshamburgers.com
Photography by Mara Friedman
“Bellacures—because moms need a break too. Actually, this spot has become a special place for me and my three-year-old daughter to begin our lifelong tradition of mother-daughter nail days.”
11712 Barrington Ct.; 310-295-0016; bellacures.com
“I wear many hats—business founder, content creator, writer, actress—but ultimately I am a storyteller at heart,” says Brentwood resident and mother-of-three Samantha Gutstadt. A native of Toronto, Canada, Gutstadt began her career in LA as an actress before eventually employing her natural comedic talents to create branded and original sketches and series across her popular social media platforms that include Instagram, Tik Tok and even podcasts. But of all her titles, it is “mom” that means the most—and one that she often incorporates into her work, dishing out practical, and sometimes satirical parenting advice and jokes. And Brentwood is the perfect backdrop. “It feels like I am raising my kids in a small town with all of the sweetness— shop owners knowing our names and the rituals of going to and supporting our local businesses,” Gutstadt says. “We have everything we can ever need or want, all in a small radius.” Here, a few of her favorite places.
“The Yogurt Shoppe is our favorite soft serve in town. Each of us has our own order, mine being (not so basic) vanilla.”
11726 Barrington Ct.; 310-440-0088; theyogurtshoppe.com
“Whether it’s a family dinner or date night, Ospi Brentwood is a fun and delicious spot bustling with locals. I love their cocktails, spicy cauliflower and branzino. And of course, the pizza!”
11677 San Vicente Blvd., #200; 424-317-0007; ospi.com
“My 30-minute weekly appointments at Pause Brentwood are my health highlight of the week. They offer infrared saunas, cold plunges, cryo, floats and IV drips.”
11611 San Vicente Blvd., GF3; 424-372-9009; pausestudio.com
At The Shelton Wilder Group, we believe in lifting women up—both in business and beyond. As an all-women real estate team, we bring expertise, heart, and a collaborative spirit to everything we do. Our mission is not only to help clients find their dream homes but also to create spaces where women thrive. That’s why we founded Wilder Women—a special gathering that brings together female entrepreneurs and influential women over breakfast, celebrating connection, empowerment, and success. Whether you’re buying, selling, or building your network, we’d love to be a part of it!
It Takes Two
A pair of Japanese-style casual dining spots, Nikó Sando and Malou Coffee, have taken over a once-quiet corner in the heart of Brentwood
Nikó Sando and Malou Coffee are connected through an interior doorway, but the two places could not offer more different experiences.
Nikó is a tiny walk-up counter where guests can order Japanese sandwiches through a selfserve kiosk while waiting for the order to magically appear from behind a traditional noren fabric divider and placed on the red clay-colored tile counter. There is a small seating area in front and a few tables on the sidewalk.
If you want a more convivial experience, Malou Coffee is also a walk-up counter where locals out walking dogs and patrons clad in workout gear with Alo bags order matcha and breakfast burritos with tater tots from a full staff and barista. This space is larger and airy with light décor and more outdoor dining options.
Here, the owners of both spots, Elan and David Noi—two brothers who have roots in hospitality and share a lifelong passion for thoughtful food and drink—set out to create a unique café that would blend Mediterranean comfort cuisine with the craft of Japanese matcha and coffee culture and the soul of Kyoto’s street food.
The vision has been years in the making. The two weren’t interested in opening just another sandwich or coffee shop—they wanted to build a destination. A place where flavor, culture and community come together.
ARTICLE BY CAROLE DIXON
When it came to choosing a location, Brentwood felt like the perfect fit. The neighborhood’s balance of energy and tranquility mirrors the spirit they hoped to create. “We loved the community feel,” says Elan. “It’s a place where people know each other, support local businesses and truly value quality. We felt right at home here.”
The duo found a prime spot in the old Compartés Chocolatier space on South Barrington Avenue and quickly got to work.
The food program for both spots is overseen by executive chef Mika Matsui, who hails from Kyoto and brings artful precision and technique to the kitchen with her culture-bridging menu. She has also worked at popular Japanese concepts Konbi in Echo Park (now shuttered, but highly praised for the egg salad sandwich) and Sobar in Culver City. “Bringing the hometown sando flavors of Kyoto to Los Angeles has been a dream come true,” she says. “Every sandwich we make is a tribute to the flavors I grew up with—simple, balanced and deeply comforting. Sharing that with this city is something truly special.”
The interior of Nikó Sando
Among the best-selling items on the Nikó side are the chicken katsu sando and the egg salad sando—both made on ultra-soft pillowy Japanese milk bread (shokupan), with housemade sauces and precise layering that makes every bite balanced and rich. “People love the texture,” David explains. “It’s crispy, creamy, warm and fresh all at once. It looks simple but there’s real craftsmanship behind it.” There is also a wagyu version and a dessert-like fruit sando for those with a sweet tooth.
Over at Malou, the Okinawa cold foam featuring brown sugar from the region and the Espresso cold foam are crowd favorites. The ceremonial-grade matcha is sourced from some of the most exclusive farms in Kyoto and Japan’s famed Uji region and prepared using traditional whisking techniques. “You can taste the difference,” says Elan. “It’s earthy, clean and vibrant—nothing like the overly sweet matchas people are used to.”
The name Malou means “at peace” in Hawaiian and captures the heart of the brothers’ vision. “We wanted people to walk in and immediately feel a sense of calm,” says Elan. “From the design to the music to the way we interact with our guests, everything is built around that feeling.” And, while many customers do take orders to go, the outdoor setting is an inviting place to relax as well with a pastry or full meal.
This talented group is not just offering craveable food and drinks— they are sharing a piece of Japanese heritage and tradition with the Brentwood community, and a promise to serve food with soul.
Nikó Sando and Malou Coffee, 912 S. Barrington Ave.; nikosando.com and maloucoffee.com
The Katsu Sando from Nikó Sando
Malou Coffee’s signature matcha
VERONICA BEARD
APIECE APART
LISA YANG
STAUD
ULLA JOHNSON
TIBI
VERONICA BEARD
FEATURING
Making its Mark
BRENTWOOD PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
PRESCHOOL BRINGS WARMTH, GUIDANCE AND CHARACTER TO THE EARLY CHILDHOOD YEARS
ARTICLE BY AMANDA EBERSTEIN
Preschool Director
For more than 75 years, Brentwood Presbyterian Church Preschool has been a cherished part of the Brentwood community. Established in 1948 as a traditional preschool program within Brentwood Presbyterian Church, it has evolved into a non-denominational school that runs independently and is known for its warm atmosphere, wonderful staff and families and developmental approach that nurtures the social, emotional and academic growth of each child. “We believe that these early years are foundational, and our goal is to guide children as they embark on the exciting journey of building friendships while also developing essential skills of lifelong learning,” says Shiva Khalifian, who has served as school director for nine years.
Khalifian’s own history with the school runs deep. Her journey began 28 years ago as a parent when both of her children attended. “I fell in love with the nurturing, joyful environment that defines Brentwood Pres.,” says Khalifian, who grew up in Santa Monica and studied both Early Childhood Education and Interior Design at UCLA. “From there, my involvement grew.” She began teaching at all age levels, before eventually taking on the role of Financial Manager and leading the enrollment process, gaining a well-rounded perspective on the school’s operations. When the director role became available, Khalifian was a natural fit.
So, what makes Brentwood Presbyterian Church Preschool—commonly referred to as Brentwood Pres. or BPCP—such a special place? “The strength of our community,” Khalifian says. “Staff and families are united by a shared commitment to our children’s growth and success. Our teachers are compassionate, dedicated and passionate about working with young children. Every day, we work together to create an environment where children feel safe, cared for and inspired.”
The school offers a range of programs designed to support children and families through the critical early years, starting with a Parent & Me toddler program. “This weekly class serves as a gentle introduction to school life and helps
Shiva Khalifian
children become familiar with the classroom environment while feeling secure with a parent by their side,” Khalifian says. Children can begin the preschool program as early as 2.5-years-old and continue through to Transitional Kindergarten (TK). “By the time they complete TK, children leave with the confidence, independence and readiness they need to thrive in a larger school environment.”
The educational approach centers on the developmental philosophy and is deeply individualized. “We take time to understand each child’s unique strengths and needs, ensuring they receive the personalized attention and support required,” Khalifian says. “Whether it’s nurturing confidence in their strengths or offering guidance through challenges, we are committed to helping every child thrive.” The focus spans several critical areas, including social skills, gross and fine motor skills, pre-math and pre-reading skills, attention and focus, self-help skills and self-regulation.
And then there is the campus itself. “We believe that a well-organized and inviting environment is essential for fostering a sense of security and curiosity in young children,” says Khalifian. The classrooms are thoughtfully arranged to provide a calm, welcoming atmosphere, with dedicated areas for different types of learning and play. These include art and sensory stations (encouraging creativity and hands-on exploration), science and math centers (sparking curiosity through discovery and problem-solving), dramatic play and block/ building areas (fostering imagination, collaboration and fine motor skills) and reading areas (promoting literacy through a variety of books and storytelling).
But it’s the beautiful outdoor spaces that are truly the heart of the school. “We have four distinct yard spaces, each designed with specific age groups in mind,” says Khalifian. Offerings include a quiet library area for reading, a makerspace where children use loose parts and everyday materials to build and let their imaginations soar, a gardening area, climbing structures, water and sensory tables, an art barn and sandboxes. “Each day our indoor and outdoor spaces are set up mindfully, considering the children’s
“We believe that these early years are foundational, and our goal is to guide children as they embark on the exciting journey of building friendships while also developing essential skills of lifelong learning.”
Classrooms are designed to provide a calm, welcoming atmosphere
“We take time to understand each child’s unique strengths and needs, ensuring they receive the personalized attention and support required. Whether it’s nurturing confidence in their strengths or offering guidance through challenges, we are committed to helping every child thrive.”
interests and needs,” Khalifian says. “This allows them to explore new ideas, develop new skills and enjoy the freedom to learn at their own pace in an expansive, safe and stimulating environment.”
Of course, the parents are also a crucial part of the overall experience at Brentwood Pres., and there are plenty of opportunities for community and involvement. The school year kicks off with an annual Fall Gala and culminates in the spring with the May Carnival. In addition to these cornerstone events, there are holiday celebrations, Grandparents Day, Multicultural Week, Community Helpers Week and party books. Each of these events deepen family bonds and reflect the school’s commitment to building a supportive, inclusive and joyful environment.
When it comes time to plan for kindergarten—however bittersweet it may be—Khalifian and her staff are also there every step of the way, offering personalized support throughout the placement process and working closely with both parents and schools to ensure the best fit for each child. “Our ongoing connections with both public and private schools in the area give us a deep understanding of their programs, philosophies and expectations—information we share with families that help them make informed decisions,” Khalifian says. “Our goal is to ensure that every child transitions confidently and successfully into the next stage of their educational journey.”
Brentwood Presbyterian Church Preschool, 12000 San Vicente Blvd.; 310-826-2020; bpcpreschool.com
Students learning math
The tranquil outdoor space
YOUR INSURANCE MIGHT REIMBURSE YOU FOR POSTPARTUM MEALS, LACTATION VISITS—EVEN OVERNIGHT BABY CARE. WE’LL SHOW YOU EXACTLY HOW. IT’S CALLED THE SANHU INSURANCE CHECK.
NO ONE TELLS NEW MOMS THIS. BUT THEY SHOULD. CONTOUROLOGY
ARTICLE BY PATRICIA TAFT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TRISH ALISON
WITH THE FOUNDING OF HER NAMESAKE STUDIO, SOPHIE DANCE, SOPHIE PIERCE IS NOT ONLY FULFILLING A CHILDHOOD DREAM—SHE’S INSPIRING THE NEXT GENERATION
ON POINT
Sophie Pierce at Sophie Dance West with her daughters (from left) Coraline, Aurora and Blaise
Sophie Pierce’s dream of running her own dance studio began in early childhood. “In kindergarten, I started creating this imaginary dance studio in my house, and I would run imaginary classes,” she says. “I would take attendance, create schedules and had lots of—invisible shows. I loved it.”
opened on Third Street in 2007—but due to high demand, it quickly took on a life of its own. “It grew really quickly, and that was a beautiful thing,” Pierce recalls. Nearly a decade later, Pierce opened what is now named Level Up, a competition, gymnastics, aerial and level-based studio, on the same street.
“SOPHIE DANCE GREW REALLY QUICKLY, AND THAT WAS A BEAUTIFUL THING.”
Miss Sophie—as she is now lovingly known by her throngs of devoted students—was raised in New York’s Hudson Valley with four brothers and two kindergarten-teacher parents. From preschool through high school, she attended a recreational, noncompetitive dance studio while living what she describes as a very idyllic, “kid-centric” life—one filled with arts and crafts that she would later integrate into her own dance camps. She went on to graduate from Ithaca College with a degree in musical theater and a double minor in dance. Originally moving to the west coast more than 20 years ago on a personal journey of self-exploration, Pierce quickly found herself filling a muchneeded niche. She began teaching private, in-home dance lessons across the city—from Silverlake to Bel Air—and from there, the original Sophie Dance studio was born. Initially intended to be a one-woman show, the first location
Eventually, Pierce realized that it was time to expand across the 405. “Moving to the westside was purely client- and employee-driven, in the sense that I had a lot of teachers who needed more hours and wanted more involvement,” Pierce says. There was also growing demand from families in the Palisades, Brentwood and Santa Monica who desired access to the Sophie Dance experience within closer proximity. Pierce launched her initial westside studio in 2019 in Santa Monica, partnering with her Third Street studio managers-turned-westside partners, Braelinn Johnson and Kat Rodriguez. The studio quickly outgrew its original space—even amid a global pandemic— prompting the move to the current, larger Brentwood location.
“I kept driving by and thinking that the location would be perfect,” Pierce says of her current studio, ideally situated in a spacious second floor area
CONTINUED >
within the Brentwood Town Center on San Vicente, adjacent to the Brentwood Country Mart. “I guess you can say I manifested it. Just like I manifested the kids in the classroom as a child.”
Now home to over 25 staff members, the studio offers a wide array of classes—including tap, ballet, jazz and hip hop—for children ages 18 months to 18 years during the school year, along with a bustling summer camp program. It also hosts the Westside Players musical theatre program, competitive dance teams and even a mini boutique for her growing Sophie Dancewear clothing line.
In addition to inspiring other children to discover their love of dance, Sophie Dance has also given Pierce the opportunity to share her passion with her three daughters. “Aurora was in the studio while I was teaching right out of the gate when she was 18 months old,” Pierce recalls of her now 14-year-old eldest child. Once a competitive dancer and now a volleyball player, Aurora still dances recreationally, while Pierce’s younger daughters, Coraline, 10 and Blaise, 9, continue to compete. All three girls are dancers in different capacities, which only seems apropos of the Miss Sophie philosophy— that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach, and everyone is welcome just as they are.
It’s that inclusive feel that makes the Brentwood location so special. “What’s been really particularly enjoyable about being in Brentwood is that community feel and the connections between the people,” she adds. “It is the one studio that genuinely has that small-town feeling.” As you enter the second floor of the Brentwood Town Center, you’re likely to
Adorable ballerinas at Sophie Dance’s annual recital
The entrance to Sophie Dance West
“BRENTWOOD IS THE ONE STUDIO THAT GENUINELY HAS THAT SMALL-TOWN FEELING.”
be pleasantly surprised by an encounter with a familiar face from a previous or present facet of your life, as you pass parents contently sitting on benches outside her studio windows.
And Pierce is giving back more than just a dance community to local families. In the aftermath of the Palisades Fire, she mobilized immediately to create a fire relief fund to support dancers who had lost their homes—100 students in total. “That we were able to feel like a second home to them and an important place to maintain was an honor and really special,” Pierce says, reflecting on the trying yet heartening time.
What began as a small-town vision in Pierce’s imagination has grown into a social cornerstone of the westside community—especially on display each June, when dancers and their families flock to the annual recital. This year’s celebration, held at the historic Wilshire Ebell Theatre, featured three full shows to accommodate the Brentwood location alone—each one a glittering who’s who of nearly every girl mom (and some boys, too!) on the westside. It was a true testament to the lasting impact that can follow when passion meets purposeful vision as Miss Sophie—and Sophie Dance— continues to successfully twirl forward.
Sophie Dance West; 13050 W. San Vicente Blvd., #201; 323-219-5930; sophiedancewestside.com
Sophie’s daughter Coraline modeling Sophie Dancewear
Sophie Dance West partners Braelinn Johnson, Kat Rodriguez and Sophie Pierce
A Westside Players theater performance of Finding Nemo
Getting into the Ivy League takes more than just good grades and top test scores— here, Command Education ’s guide to admissions success at every stage
COLLEGE ADMISSIONS 101
“One of the most common misconceptions about the college application process is that sheer prestige—an elite private school, a competitive summer program, a big-name internship—will make you stand out to top colleges,” says Grace Lee, managing director at Command Education, a boutique college consulting firm that is the go-to resource for some of the most discerning families in the world. “In reality, the applicant pools at top colleges are flooded with students who boast these credentials.” Lee would know. At Command Education—where services include a customized plan tailored to each individual, comprehensive college application support, near-peer mentorship, passion project development and assistance with extracurriculars, merit awards, competitive internships and research opportunities—94% of students have been accepted to one of their top three school choices over the past five years. “The distinguishing factor of a standout application is how a student connects the dots to tell a compelling story about their growth, passions and goals for the future through their accomplishments,” Lee says. And starting early is also key. Here, Command Education’s guide to what students—and parents—should be doing at every stage to assure college admissions success.
Grace Lee of Command Education
MIDDLE SCHOOL: THE EXECUTIVE SKILLS PHASE
While college applications might seem to be in the distant future, middle school is an essential time for students to lay the groundwork for high school success. Students should aim to develop their executive functioning skills, solidify their math and reading abilities and build a support network they will carry into high school. Though colleges consider activities and involvements beginning the summer before a student’s freshman year of high school, younger students should still be intentional about their activities. The freedom and lack of pressure during a student’s middle school years affords them the opportunity to explore their interests and discover what excites them in and outside of the classroom. “Top colleges are looking for students with unique, authentic passions who have tangibly explored their areas of interests before even stepping foot on campus,” says Lee. “Students who become Ivy League
material cultivate their interests over time— starting early allows students to get to know themselves, discover what truly motivates them and gain meaningful experience in their field through coursework, extracurriculars, summer programs and independent initiatives in their communities.”
While not necessarily showstopping activities on an Ivy League application, summer camp, intramural sports, theater workshops or volunteering at the local animal shelter can provide key opportunities for middle school students to develop the confidence, communication skills, and curiosity that will benefit them throughout their high school years.
Parents can encourage their middle school students to self-reflect on their experiences, asking questions like:
• What are the clubs, classes and activities you would like to try this year?
• What activities or subjects make you feel most excited or energized? Why?
• If you could spend a whole day learning about anything, what would it be?
A student and mentors CONTINUED
FRESHMAN AND SOPHOMORE YEARS: THE EXPERIMENTATION PHASE
The single most important quality in the college admissions process is one that cannot be manufactured: authenticity. Ivy League and other top colleges want to admit students who have challenged themselves, taken inventory of their skills and passions and approached their interests with creativity and originality. This means there is no onesize-fits-all approach to the process—the path to a successful application will look different for every student.
Freshman and sophomore years are a critical time for a student to chart their unique path. Particularly during freshman year, students should continue to experiment and explore by trying out different clubs, classes and opportunities outside of the classroom. This is also an ideal time to apply to competitive, merit-based summer programs to make the most of their months off school. Applications for the most competitive programs have deadlines early in the school year, often even before Thanksgiving.
“ADMISSIONS OFFICERS KNOW THAT APPLICANTS ARE TEENAGERS—THEY AREN’T EXPECTING THEM TO ACCOMPLISH WHAT A FORTUNE 500 CORPORATION OR ESTABLISHED NON-PROFIT MIGHT,” SAYS LEE. “INSTEAD, THEY LOOK FOR INITIATIVES THAT SHOWCASE WHAT STUDENTS REALLY CARE ABOUT.”
By sophomore year, students should begin the process of tailoring their involvements around their “hook”—the guiding passions at the core of their application narratives. They should seek leadership opportunities in the clubs that most excite them, enroll in the most challenging coursework in their field of interest and begin brainstorming ways to deepen their knowledge of their field through a passion project, an independent initiative through which students mobilize their core interests in service of their broader community.
“Elite institutions are looking for students who are junior specialists in their area of interest—but this doesn’t mean that they want students who are solely focused on one subject,” says Lee. “In fact, some of the most successful students are those who show their creativity and ambition by combining their disciplinary interests in surprising ways, like interrogating the relationships between physics and
Command Education founder and CEO Christopher Rim working with a student
literature or linguistics and computer coding, for example. When students begin high school with ambition, self-reflection and curiosity, their early years can lead to exciting and unexpected connections that define their applications when the time comes.”
Finally, by the end of sophomore year, students should have completed the foundational coursework needed to take a diagnostic SAT or ACT, allowing them to gauge their target score.
JUNIOR YEAR: THE EXPERTISE-BUILDING PHASE
Junior year is when the rubber meets the road— rather than exploring and experimenting with their interests, students should focus on developing expertise in this stage. Not only should students be striving toward their goal standardized test scores, earning top grades in the most challenging courses offered and pursuing continued learning through independent research and academic summer programs, but they should also be in the execution stage of their passion project.
Whether organizing a local STEM camp for middle and high-school students, self-publishing a guide to indigenous plants for fellow foragers or launching a student-run art exhibition, a passion project is a hands-on experience that allows students to develop key leadership, communication and subject-specific skills while tangibly demonstrating a commitment to using their learning for the betterment of their communities. It should offer a preview of the ways that a student plans to use the knowledge they gain in college to make a positive impact in their field.
“Many students and parents assume that they need to solve world hunger, partner with a globally recognized brand or generate millions of dollars in revenue to impress Ivy League admissions officers,” says Lee. “But this simply isn’t true. Admissions officers know that applicants are teenagers—they aren’t expecting them to accomplish what a Fortune 500 corporation or established non-profit might. Instead, they look for initiatives that showcase what students really care about and how they have addressed a need in their community with their own ingenuity and resourcefulness.”
By the spring of junior year, students should have a draft of their balanced college list, including a mix of high reach, reach, match and safety schools. Spring break is an ideal time to conduct college visits, as classes are in session and prospective students can get a glimpse of life on campus!
SENIOR YEAR: THE EXECUTION PHASE
By senior year, students should have laid a strong foundation of coursework, extracurriculars, summer involvements and independent projects—and tie it all together as a cohesive story. “An uninspired and unstrategic narrative is one of the most common reasons that students blend into a sea of other applicants,” says Lee. “Students need to think critically about how to articulate their distinct achievements in their unique voice to admissions officers. What makes you different from not only the tens of thousands of other applicants, but also from the smaller pool of students applying to your specific major, from a similar background or with a similar list of activities and involvements?”
During the summer before senior year, students should brainstorm and draft their Common App essay, finalize their college lists and research the requirements for each school to which they are applying, including deadlines, required materials and Early Decision and Early Action options. By mapping out a timeline in advance, students can avoid last-minute stress and submit their best work.
Contact Command Education and mention Brentwood City Lifestyle for a complimentary 45-minute strategy session. 212-368-1000; info@ commandeducation.com; commandeducation.com
College admissions success
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
AUGUST 2ND-3RD, 9TH-10TH AND 16TH-17TH
Garden Concerts for Kids
Getty Center, 1200 Getty Center Dr. | 4:00 PM
This free summer outdoor music series takes place in the Getty Center's Central Garden, featuring some of the best children's musical artists from across the nation. On August 2nd and 3rd, enjoy 123 Andrés, a Grammy-winning duo known for their interactive, high-energy dual Spanish and English shows. Next up is LA-based children’s singer, songwriter and educator Kymberly Stewart on August 9th and 10th, followed by Divi Roxx Kids World Wide Playdate on August 16th and 17th. getty.edu
AUGUST 14TH
Bobby Bradford’s Stealin’ Home: a Tribute to Jackie Robinson
Hammer Museum, 10899 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles | 8:00 PM
West Coast jazz legend and treasured elder statesman of the Los Angeles music community, cornetist Bobby Bradford leads a special project paying tribute to baseball hero Jackie Robinson. Bradford’s septet features a who’s who of SoCal musical luminaries—Vinny Golia, Chuck Manning, William Roper, Don Preston, Henry Franklin and Tina Raymond—in a suite of music that swings and swirls, evoking the power and poignancy of Robinson’s revolutionary career. hammer.ucla.edu
Glow Into Fall with Forma
Book a facial in August and receive a complimentar y Forma treatment (value: $300)
Perfect for lif ting, toning, and giving your skin a post-summer refresh before fall kicks in.
THE HELP COMPANY
115 BARRINGTON WALK 310-828-4111 THEHELPCOMPANY.COM
Hire Learning
For many young families, there are few decisions more important—and nerve-wracking—than finding a nanny. In ideal situations, these caregivers become beloved and integral parts of the households for years to come. Locally, there is perhaps no better expert than Claudia Kahn, founder and CEO of the Help Company, the premier staffing agency in Brentwood Village. For Kahn’s cohort of specialists, which range from nannies to newborn nurses to doulas to even tutors—caring for children is truly their calling, and all candidates are selected not only for their credentials, but for their compassionate nature. “We have been called the best matchmakers for families finding their help,” Kahn says. Here are the Help Company’s top tips for a successful nanny search.
1. KNOW WHAT YOU ARE LOOKING FOR
If you’re clear as the employer, it will help you find the best nanny out there. Think of tangible things that the job will require, such as your desired schedule, how much experience you would like your nanny to have, necessary qualifications—do you want a swimmer, CPR certification, someone who can drive, etc.—live-in versus live-out, someone who is sporty or artsy and of course your budget. Making a list will help narrow down your search and keep you much more focused.
2. THINK LONGTERM
Many families search for a nanny during the newborn phase and often only consider their baby’s immediate needs. However, great nannies are those who can grow with your children and continue to care for and challenge them along the way. Consider how nannies will approach every age and milestone, if they are ok with multiple kids and how they will eventually be able to handle discipline, temper tantrums and any other challenges that may arise.
3. TAKE NOTICE OF THE DETAILS
Did they show up on time? Park in the correct place? Ask to wash their hands before interacting with your baby? Speak one-on-one with your kids? Have a generally positive attitude? Little things that may otherwise go unnoticed can be strong signals of how they process details and will be once they are taking care of your own family.
4. DON’T RUSH
This is a huge hire. Parents, children and nannies should feel super comfortable and excited to work together. If everyone isn’t happy, it won’t be a good longtime fit. So start the search as early as possible, meet with multiple candidates, conduct thorough interviews, check references, do test trials and take your time to feel good about your final decision.
5. GET THE EXPERTS TO HELP YOU!
Just like taking care of your health and finding the best doctors, there are experts like the Help Company who can help you define what you need and want and take care of the rest. The Help Company also has a wider network of childcare providers, all of whom are heavily vetted and checked. Making the time and investment upfront will pay off big time in the long run!
Claudia Kahn
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