The Style Issue
FEATURING REAL ESTATE POWERHOUSE SHELTON WILDER
PLUS CAPSULE SHOP’S GUIDE TO FALL FASHION, JEWELRY DESIGNER KIRSTY STONE OF RETROUVAÍ, THE OTHER ART FAIR ARRIVES IN SANTA MONICA AND MORE
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The Style Issue
September is always one of my favorite times of year here in Brentwood. Everyone has returned from their summer vacations, the school year is entering full swing, there is a packed social calendar and the weather is perfect. And even though the temperatures are still warm, September of course also ushers in the start of fall fashion. We thought that this would be the perfect time to present our first annual Style issue.
Style is such an indelible part of life—it’s far more than the clothes we wear or the accessories we choose. Style is woven into every detail of our existence, from the way we decorate our homes to the art we enjoy to the books we read and the way we present ourselves to the world. It’s a language without words, a powerful tool for connection that can bridge differences and spark shared understanding.
Take our cover girl, Shelton Wilder. A native of North Carolina, Wilder began her career as a stylist and buyer at Capitol, the esteemed clothing boutique in Charlotte— which today of course has a beautiful sister location at the Brentwood Country Mart. Wilder’s early days in fashion undoubtedly had a major effect on her evolution into the real estate powerhouse she is today—something that she explains in more detail in our feature story. Her own personal style is an integral part of her brand—feminine yet strong, always dressed with intention and with her signature dose of Southern charm. I have been lucky to call Shelton both an incredible partner of the magazine and a friend and am so honored to help share her story in these pages.
We also check in with another dynamic stylesetter, Emily Park, the founder of Capsule Shop. Since opening her boutique two years ago in Brentwood, Capsule has become the go-to destination for thoughtfully edited, classic yet perfectly on-trend fashion. With her expert curation and exquisite taste, I thought that Park would be the perfect person to highlight fall’s top looks. Additionally, we feature Kirsty Stone, designer and founder of fine jewelry line Retrouvaí and visit Custom Comfort Mattress—a family-owned local company that produces the most luxurious mattresses—at its redesigned West Hollywood flagship. Elsewhere in the issue, you will find stories on celebrated French restaurant Pasjoli’s new iteration, The Other Art Fair—coming to the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica this month—and the women behind Alegria Collaborative, who bring humanism, compassion and yes, even style, to their seriously inspiring work.
Enjoy the issue.
AMANDA EBERSTEIN, PUBLISHER
September 2025
PUBLISHER
Amanda Eberstein | amanda.eberstein@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Laura SanchezQuan
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Carole Dixon, Maile Pingel
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Christopher Amitrano, Shayan Asgharnia, Michael Allen Creative, Neau Focus, Nick Frandjian/ Open House Foto, Claire Leahy, Molly Marler, Sarah Noble, Nils Timm, John Troxell
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich
LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
Offering only the freshest and most luxurious blooms and plants
Beloved Brentwood florist for over 30 years
10% OFF our online catalog using code: LIFESTYLE
inside the issue
French Renaissance
Chef Dave Beran has reimagined his beloved dining destination Pasjoli into a more approachable—yet equally delectable—bistro
Sweeter Dreams
Custom Comfort Mattress’ redesigned West Hollywood showroom celebrates the family-run company’s dedication to luxury, craftsmanship and the SoCal community
Sunny Disposition
Shelton Wilder has taken the local real estate scene by storm— with a smile and a healthy dose of Southern hospitality
Fal
Emily Park of Capsule Shop offers her sartorial advice for the upcoming season
FERRARI
Thinking of Selling? Start with the Right Advisor.
city scene
1: Kilte founder Hannah Hale Redfern kicked off her latest collection with an intimate dinner hosted by Rainey Lancaster Hoag at Farmshop at the Brentwood Country Mart. 2: The table was set with gorgeous florals and chic Kilte merch. 3: Style consultant Mallory K. Goldman and Natalie Wise of NLA Collection. 4: Guests—like actress Rebecca Rittenhouse—wore their favorite new Kilte knits. 5: Marguerita Kitchen founder Julia Hirt.
6: Digital marketing strategist Alexandra Nikolajev and jewelry designer Kelsey Kershner. 7: Stylesetters Alex Delena and Natalie Stilz.
Photography by Sarah Noble
1: Legendary Dutch furnishing brand Eichholtz celebrated its first West Coast showroom, curated by acclaimed designer Ryan Saghian (left, with Jordana Yechiel). 2: The evening also marked the US debut of heritage British paint brand Little Greene (shown here: Eichholtz LA partner Anthony Philip, Laura Bindloss and Little Greene creative director Ruth Mottershead). 3: Interior designers Skylar Berkus, Nicole Gordon and Zoé Chrissos.
4: A beautifully styled tablescape, adorned with Little Greene wallpaper, reflected both brands’ shared appreciation for color, attention to detail and thoughtful design. 5: Amanda Eberstein of Brentwood City Lifestyle and publicist Roxie Sarhangi. 6: Architect Leo Marmol of Marmol Radziner and designers Erica Hay and David Desmond. 7: Darren Franks of Darren Franks & Associates and media specialist Jennifer Convy.
Photography by Michael Allen Creative
1: Peter Bakhtiari, the founder of Maison by PGB, and Amir Jawaherian of the Agency hosted a glamorous twilight affair at the newly completed residence at 2555 La Mesa Drive. 2: The elegant all-white evening event showcased the beautiful contemporary estate—now available on the market—with live entertainment, music and curated small bites. 3: Reserva de la Torre Tequila was on hand to get the party started. 4: A group of guests dressed in white. 5: Private chef Guy Gabai aka the Meat Guy transformed the kitchen with his carnivorous creations. 6: A beautiful spread. 7: Paul Lester and Gloria Castellanos of the Agency.
Photography by Nick Frandjian/Open House Foto
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business monthly
A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES
Alex Israel x Oliver Peoples
In response to the LA wildfires, Oliver Peoples has partnered with contemporary artist Alex Israel to release a special edition of the brand’s iconic Oliver Sun frame. 100% of sales will be donated to Steadfast LA Foundation’s Modular Housing Initiative, helping underinsured residents remain in their communities. The limited edition glasses come in three colorways—black, tortoise and clear crystal—with a custom corewire etched with Israel’s iconic Fin motif and a pop interpretation of the classic Oliver Peoples logo. $675; oliverpeoples.com
Hunt & Gather: Fresh Fish, Delivered
Hunt & Gather—the latest venture from Farzad Youshei of Yooshi Sushi—delivers fresh fish from top local markets direct to doorsteps throughout LA. Selections vary based on season and availability, including everything from Bakkafrost salmon from the Faroe Islands to sushi-grade tuna to whole, scaled Mediterranean-style branzino, all prepared and packaged to customers’ specifications. The Hunt & Gather team will also offer recipes, suggested wine pairings, treats and more. Order by Sunday for Tuesday delivery or Wednesday for Friday delivery. 323-653-6333; myhuntandgather.com
Glow Into Fall with Svóya Beauty Studio
Step into Svóya Beauty Studio in Brentwood and step out glowing. Revitalize your skin with a HydraFacial and the Svóya Signature Facial—the ultimate treatments to hydrate, refresh and rejuvenate skin for the fall season. Whether prepping for the school year or simply looking to restore your summer glow, Svóya’s expert estheticians are there to help you look and feel radiant. Mention Brentwood City Lifestyle to enjoy 15% off both treatments this month only. 11740 San Vicente Blvd., #105; 310-901-7626; svoyabeauty.com
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GET IN TOUCH AT CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/BRENTWOODLA
Fall Personal Styling with Style/Salon
Get your wardrobe fall-ready with a personal styling package from Jill Bronstein of Style/Salon. This seasonal session includes an in-depth closet edit and organization followed by curated shopping by Bronstein on your behalf and then styling new pieces with existing favorites and staples. Bronstein will work hand-in-hand with clients to create custom looks for everything from work to travel to events to day-to-day living. You will never look at your closet the same! jill@stylesalonla.com; 310-386-9948; stylesalonla.com
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Rosewood Miramar Beach Partners with Godmothers Bookstore
Godmothers, Summerland’s beloved independent bookstore and gathering space, has partnered with the Manor Bar at nearby Rosewood Miramar Beach. Godmothers Literary Society will feature a monthly speaker series focused on intimate author conversations and literary events, as well as a quarterly book club. The Manor Bar will also introduce Reading Hours, a new daytime experience featuring a thoughtfully curated selection of Godmothers titles available to browse, borrow or purchase. Rosewood Miramar Beach; 1759 S. Jameson Ln., Montecito; 805-900-8388; rosewoodhotels.com
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Chef Jeremy Fox’s New Cookbook
Acclaimed local chef Jeremy Fox—chef/owner of Rustic Canyon and Birdie G’s in Santa Monica—is releasing his second book , On Meat , this month. The follow up to his global bestseller On Vegetables , this beautiful Phaidon-published tome opens with a helpful primer of essential culinary techniques—from roasting a whole chicken to making sausage to searing steaks and chops—followed by more than 160 inventive recipes for the home cook and creative carnivore. $49.95; phaidon.com
Newly Built: 13164 Boca De Canon Lane
Dine with the stars above you and waves at your feet on the shores of Montecito, California. At Sapore di Stelle, Rosewood Miramar Beach’s newest dining experience from MICHELIN star and MICHELIN Green Star celebrated restaurant Caruso’s, discover Chef Massimo Falsini’s ref i ned coastal cuisine and the bounty of the Central Coast.
MY TOWN: KIRSTY STONE
“I really love having Capitol in our neighborhood. The salespeople are the best and the curation is spot on.”
225 26th St., #38A; 424-268-4641; shop-capitol.com
“Located in the courtyard of the Country Mart, Frida Tacos is easy and casual, and one of our go-to lastminute meals. It’s not fussy— just good chicken tacos.”
225 E. 26th St., #14; 310-395-9666; fridatacosla.com
“I don’t drink coffee, and Alfred Coffee is one of the only shops with a decent tea selection. I recommend the white coconut and the hibiscus lemongrass.”
11908 San Vicente Blvd.; 310-340-0094; alfred.la
Kirsty Stone, the Brentwood-based founder and designer of fine jewelry brand Retrouvaí, developed a passion for her profession at an early age. The Toronto-born talent grew up with one grandmother who worked for a costume house and the Hudson’s Bay Company department stores, and another who was a collector of semi-precious gemstones. “The name Retrouvaí is drawn from the French word retrouvailles—a term that captures the joy of rediscovering something precious from one’s past,” says Stone of the line, which launched in 2015. “I design through a lens of nostalgia and reverence for the stories we carry.” Her life as a mother of three young girls undoubtedly serves as a major influence on her work, which is known for its quirky, playful style and bold colors, and has been worn by the likes of Taylor Swift and Halle Berry. She also seeks inspiration from her adopted hometown—most recently designing a new collection, Bond, that speaks to the struggles of the LA fires. “It’s about finding beauty in things that have been broken and put back together,” says Stone. “Making them arguably even more beautiful than the original.” Here, a few of Stone’s favorite local places. retrouvai.com
“We are at Farmshop several times a week! The breakfast is great and it’s practically a community center.”
225 26th St., #25; 310-566-2400; farmshopca.com
“I hesitate to share because I don’t want him to become unavailable, but Santi the tailor at the Fitting Room gets it right every time!”
11740 San Vicente Blvd., #112; 310-826-6664
“The Brentwood Farmers’ Market is a family Sunday morning ritual. If we’re in town, I go to the market pretty much rain or shine! Our kids love it too.”
741 S. Gretna Green Way; rawinspiration.org
“We enjoy taking guests to the Getty Center. I highly recommend the garden for children to run freely.”
1200 Getty Center Dr.; 310-440-7300; getty.edu
Photography by Claire Leahy
French Renaissance
Chef Dave Beran has reimagined his beloved dining destination Pasjoli into a more approachable—yet equally delectable—bistro
James Beard Award-winning chef Dave Beran— formerly the chef de cuisine of the world-renowned Michelin three-star restaurant Alinea in Chicago, went back to his multi-course fine dining roots with Seline on Main Street in Santa Monica earlier this year. The location is not far from his French-themed Pasjoli, which opened in 2019 and was immediately celebrated for the chef’s decadent dishes and creative use of an entire duck served tableside for two.
While Seline is an evolution of Beran’s first Los Angeles restaurant, the now-closed 18-seat Dialogue, Pasjoli has morphed into an approachable, cozy French bistro originally designed by Steve Rugo from Rugo Raff Architects Ltd. in Chicago—who also oversaw Beran’s other west coast spots, along with Alinea.
To many people’s surprise, Pasjoli closed in May of this year and quickly reopened again in June with a minor dining room refresh—however the menu is nearly completely unrecognizable. But—one may ask—why mess with a good thing and why now?
ARTICLE BY CAROLE DIXON
PHOTOGRAPHY BY FRANK WONHO LEE AND JOHN TROXELL
“I had a pretty eye-opening moment at the bar with my daughter,” Beran explains. “I was sitting there having a snack with her right at opening on a Monday and it just didn’t feel right. It didn’t feel like the place I’d always envisioned it to be. Seeing the space with fresh eyes after the Seline opening offered a moment of clarity. Five-anda-half years in, sometimes you just have to make a change.”
During the transition, Beran found that the entire menu was in need of a revamp. “Obviously, a burger, steak frites, and French onion soup will always sell,” he says of some of the new, more casual offerings. “But the real surprise has been the balance across the board on food ordered. I give a lot of credit to our chef de cuisine Jack Joyce and exec sous Erik Beringer for really helping to hone in on a vision of a very crowd-pleasing, delicious yet simple menu.”
The entrance to Pasjoli
One of those crowd pleasers—which you can also order at the bar, along with martinis or rosé by the glass—is the cordon bleu-stuffed chicken wings. “We wanted to do cordon bleu for a while,” says Beran. “We played with the idea, but Jack really pushed these to the finish line with the current presentation.”
“The wings are filled with gruyère cheese that is wrapped in thinly sliced prosciutto,” adds Joyce. “Then dredged in egg wash and a mixture of flour, cornstarch and baking powder. We fry them until golden brown, season with fennel pollen salt and serve them with a pickled Fresno hot sauce.”
Another smart move is the French onion souplette which is a small, manageable portion of the classic that is usually so filling it’s an entire meal. Now, there will be plenty of room to order steamed mussels or poutine with frites, duck, cherry-duck gravy and gruyère.
And if you want to go all in, order the whole pressed duck dinner—one of the only original menu items still available—presented tableside for the first time since before the pandemic, and available by pre-booking on the website. “It’s a nod to 19th-century French tradition—an experience as theatrical as it is delicious,” notes Beran. Using a vintage duck press—which showcases and savors the freshness of the birds while extracting the juices—an entire duck is transformed into multiple dishes, including a salad with a warm duck fat sherry vinaigrette and crispy duck skin, duck leg confit with black truffle and wild mushroom ragout and mouthwatering roasted sliced duck breast. “The chef extracts the rich juices and combines them with red wine and cognac to create one of the most iconic sauces in French cuisine,” Beran explains.
But, Beran warns, the restaurant has been selling out of ducks regularly. “If you want it, reserve it!” he says. “It’s a tableside celebration of duck in all its glory.”
Pasjoli; 2732 Main Street, Santa Monica; 424-330-0020; pasjoli.com
An assortment of dishes from the new menu
Chef Dave Beran
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SWEETER DREAMS
Custom Comfort Mattress’ redesigned West Hollywood showroom celebrates the family-run company’s dedication to luxury, craftsmanship and the SoCal community
ARTICLE BY MAILE PINGEL
“A good day starts with a good night,” says Gary Trudell of Custom Comfort Mattress. And since 1986, the family-run firm he heads with his brother Mel Trudell and their business partner Jeremy Solis has been providing one of life’s greatest luxuries: a comfy bed. Headquartered in the city of Orange, California the company takes a couturier’s approach to crafting
A Reserve mattress from Custom Comfort Mattress
“A good day starts with a good night,” says Gary Trudell of Custom Comfort Mattress.
their handmade, all-natural mattresses. Now, with the reopening of their redesigned West Hollywood flagship, it’s the perfect time to stop by and learn how a custom-fitted mattress can elevate everyday living.
“We have eight showrooms across Southern California, but West Hollywood has really taken on a life of its own,” says Trudell, who sits on the board of the West Hollywood Design District. The store’s location on Beverly Boulevard between Doheny and N. Robertson helped them build longstanding relationships with leading interior designers, a few of whom encouraged Trudell to renovate after 15 years. Now focused on natural woods and natural lighting, the showroom authentically aligns with the company’s focus on wellness (they host yoga and sound baths), while creating a more inviting space for collaboration. Walk-ins are welcome but “fittings,” as Trudell calls them, can also be done by appointment and, should a celebrity or VIP client need, the exclusivity of a closed showroom.
A highlight of the reopening is the expansion of the company’s Designer Concierge Program, which offers in-home consultations, white-glove service and project management support to help remove some of the guesswork that comes with finding the perfect bed. “Comfort can be complicated, and mattresses can be difficult for a designer to buy for a client, so I’m an extension of their services,” Trudell explains. The company can match nightstand heights or even retrofit a Minotti bed, and they offer specialty dimensions for clients like athletes, who are known to be fans. “One of our oversize designs is an 8-by-8-foot bed we call the Bel-Air King,” he says. Often clients are repeats (“If we do someone’s home in Brentwood, we also do their home in Aspen or the Hamptons.”) and they extend beyond residential to hotels including the about-to-reopen Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore in Santa Barbara, and top luxury resorts in Palm Springs and Cabo San Lucas.
The exterior of the West Hollywood flagship
Top: An artisan working at the factory in Orange, California
Bottom: Mattresses are adjustable and can be tailored to suit clients' needs
The average person spends one-third of their life in bed, and Trudell is convinced that a good mattress is key to how well one navigates life’s changes. “We see clients in the best of times—marriage, children—but also the worst, like when someone is sick,” Trudell continues. “We’ve also seen clients through riots, COVID and fires,” he adds, noting that he has helped some 85 Palisades families establish new homes. And by turning the West Hollywood showroom into a more sanctuary-like environment, he hopes clients will feel even more secure when talking about their individual needs. “We ask what’s going on in their lives, and we really listen,” says Trudell. “Why aren’t they feeling well? Do they have allergies? Why are they gaining weight? There’s a lot we can help solve through a proper fitting.”
Trudell’s keys to a sound sleep include understanding a client’s body type, predominant sleep positions and comfort preferences. “Most females sleep on their sides, so we want to take pressure off their hips and shoulders. And since men have a denser weight, it’s sort of like we sleep in the bed, whereas women sleep on it.” And that old myth about a hard bed being good for a bad back? “That’s just not how our bodies work,” he says. “We need to equalize pressure and keep the spine aligned. Plus, we spend so much time on our screens that we’re losing good posture, which makes how we rest at night even more important.”
But what also makes a restful sleep is peace of mind. “The bed-in-a-box foam mattresses are made with petrochemicals that off-gas and because they’re one-sided, they last maybe two years before becoming landfill,” says Trudell. “We’ve stayed the course with natural materials because we care about what we’re making.” Custom Comfort Mattresses are constructed by hand with an armature of American steel and layered with hand-tufted, eco-friendly materials including American-grown cotton, naturally hypoallergenic wool, horsehair (a centuries-old tradition for its insulation properties) and natural latex from the sap of rubber trees. The materials allow for better air circulation and temperature regulation, and they are toxin-free, non-allergenic, antimicrobial and dust mite-resistant. And because they are more durable than synthetic materials, they last longer. “Our mattresses are also designed to be reversible, so you get
“A good sleep is critical to our health. And it’s the quality of your mattress that will make the biggest difference in the quality of your sleep.”
twice the wear—they’ll last 10 to 15 years,” Trudell adds. (Double-sided mattresses should be flipped and turned every season for even wear.) While a custom mattress can be an investment, there are collections for all price points, be it a cost-effective guest bedroom or a plush option for the primary suite: the Select collection starts at $285, Heritage at $1,155 and Reserve at $2,840.
Studies have shown that consistent, restorative sleep improves our immunity, cognition, mood, and even creativity. “A good sleep is critical to our health,” Trudell says simply. “And it’s the quality of your mattress that will make the biggest difference in the quality of your sleep.”
Custom Comfort Mattress West Hollywood; 8919 Beverly Blvd., West Hollywood; 310-695-5801; customcomfortmattress.com
In celebration of Custom Comfort Mattress’ new West Hollywood Flagship, the store will be hosting an Open House from September 22nd to October 3rd. Events are geared toward designers and residents alike. Visit the company website for more information.
O L O R B Y C A N A L E . C O M
S A L E 2 0 % O F F
C
ARTICLE BY AMANDA EBERSTEIN
SHELTON WILDER HAS TAKEN THE LOCAL REAL ESTATE SCENE BY STORM—WITH A SMILE AND A HEALTHY DOSE OF SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY
SUNNY DISPOSITION
Shelton Wilder at one of her Brentwood listings.
Photography by Molly Marler
To know Shelton Wilder is to love her. With her signature Southern charm and wide-eyed smile mixed with an inherent grit, hustle and drive to succeed, the North Carolina-born beauty is a breath of fresh air in the often cutthroat and ego-driven local real estate scene. “Relationships are everything,” says Wilder, who points to
Wilder worked at Capitol for 7 ½-years, eventually as a stylist and a buyer, traveling to New York City multiple times a year to observe the couture shows and meet with top fashion houses. It was an experience that, unbeknownst to Wilder, prepared her for her eventual real estate career. “When you are a stylist, you are in someone’s home
“RELATIONSHIPS ARE EVERYTHING. LIGHT ATTRACTS LIGHT.”
her high referral rates and friendships with other agents as key to her success.
“Light attracts light. Being kind and positive goes a long way.” It’s a natural tactic that has served Wilder well— since launching her own business, the Shelton Wilder Group, in 2017, she has closed over $700 million in total sales, with $135 million sold in 2024 alone, and is consistently ranked among the top agents in LA as well as nationwide.
Growing up as one of five kids in Gastonia, North Carolina, a small town outside of Charlotte, Wilder was always drawn to the finer things in life.
“My mom was a model and was very chic and beautiful. She loved fashion and had an incredible sense of style,” she recalls. “I was always obsessed with clothes and dressing up.” After graduating from the University of Georgia, Wilder moved to Charlotte and began working at Capitol, a new boutique that would quickly become the premier fashion destination in the city—and today has a second location at the Brentwood Country Mart. Under owner Laura Vinroot Poole’s tutelage,
and closet and getting to know them on a very intimate level. I would dress people from the grocery store to the White House,” Wilder says. “In real estate, it’s similar. You form very deep relationships. Like clothes, your home is the way that you present yourself to the world, just on a much larger scale.”
In her late 20s, California came calling, and Wilder made the move to Los Angeles. Here, her entrepreneurial spirit began to really shine. Wilder continued to work as a stylist and started her own luxury management company, where she would do everything from planning multi-million dollar weddings to overseeing clients’ holiday cards, dinner reservations and travel. She even made an appearance on Shark Tank slinging a line of slips called Shemie, which she still wears nearly every day. And most notably, Wilder met her husband, attorney Clark McCutchen, and started her family, which today consists of two boys, Lane, 9, and Beau, 11, and a Golden Retriever named Buster. “I have the greatest family,” Wilder says. “My boys are the loves of my life.”
CONTINUED >
It was during this transition into motherhood that Wilder had what she refers to as “The Click,”—a lightbulb moment to pursue a career in real estate. “I knew how to sell, and I love people and being of service,” she says. “To me, there was no question. I had to succeed.” Wilder got her license, formed her own group and quickly learned the nuances of the local market, building a strong network and developing her personal brand. Today, Wilder is a powerhouse in her field, and the Shelton Wilder Group—now part of Christie’s Real Estate—consists of a ten-member all-female team. “I am all about women supporting women,” says Wilder, who also runs an incredible networking group, Wilder Woman, with more than 250 female entrepreneurs who meet monthly in LA. “I truly am the ultimate hype girl.”
Naturally, this outlook spills over into her real estate career, where Wilder is known for her positive attitude, attention to detail and Southern hospitality, always dressed to the nines and often baking fresh cookies for open houses and delivering thoughtful closing gifts to clients and even other agents. “Finding or selling a home can be a very daunting experience,” Wilder says. “I try to take away some of the pressure and make it more enjoyable.” This capacity was on full display in the wake of the Los Angeles fires, when Wilder worked tirelessly to help countless clients and friends, and now is assisting through the rebuilding process. She is also known for her serious negotiating deals, ability to find off-market properties through her own
The tranquil backyard of Wilder’s own home.
Photography by Nils Timm
Wilder with friend Caroline Gamble at her annual Wilder Wellness event
“I GET TO WORK WITH SOME OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL PROPERTIES IN THE WORLD, WHILE HELPING PEOPLE ACHIEVE THEIR DREAMS.”
extensive network, premier styling and prepping abilities and her social media prowess—with nearly 50,000 followers on Instagram and a successful podcast, Wilder Possibilities.
And although she works throughout Los Angeles, Wilder calls Brentwood home—living in a gorgeous midcentury residence that she and her husband meticulously restored over the last few years. “I call it my treehouse,” Wilder says of the 4,500-square-foot property, which features multiple stories built into the hillside and an idyllic tiered, terraced backyard. Wilder naturally also represents many homes in the area—her most recent Brentwood listings included everything from a picture-perfect original 1930s Spanish-style home for $4.75 million to Willow Crest, a 21,000-squarefoot contemporary estate that hit the market at $45 million. “That is part of the joy of my job,” Wilder explains. “I get to work with some of the most beautiful properties in the world, while helping people achieve their dreams.”
Shelton Wilder Group; 11911 San Vicente Blvd., Suite 390; 310-997-7059; sheltonwilder.com
Willow Crest.
Photography by Christopher Amitrano
The living room of Wilder’s recent Spanish-style listing. Photography by Neau Focus
Falling into Fashion
Emily Park of Capsule Shop offers her sartorial advice for the upcoming season
Since opening at Brentwood’s Town & Country shopping center in the summer of 2023, Capsule Shop has quickly become a go-to destination for thoughtfully edited, of-the-moment fashion with everyday ease. “It’s a deliberate curation of the best finds from iconic global designers and emerging talent,” says owner Emily Park, who originally founded the company as an e-commerce platform before opening her own brick-and-mortar. “Brentwood embodies everything I love about Los Angeles while maintaining a genuine sense of community,” says the longtime Palisades resident of the store, which is stocked with a careful selection from in-demand brands such as Veronica Beard, Isabel Marant Etoile, Tibi, Ulla Johnson, Staud and Mansur Gavriel. “There’s something special about the women who live and work in this area. They’re sophisticated, busy and looking for pieces that can keep up with their dynamic lives.” Park—herself a busy mother-of-three— often seeks inspiration from her own calendar. “Whether I’m running weekend errands, enjoying dinner with friends, attending school events with my children, or embarking on family trips, I’m constantly thinking about what pieces would make these moments feel effortless and elegant.” Here, some of the top trends she’s seeing for fall.
Capsule Shop; 11640 San Vicente Blvd., #109; 310-984-1234; capsuleshoponline.com
“My obsession with short sleeve knits started a few years ago. They’re absolutely perfect for LA. When the temperature drops, they make the ultimate layering piece under an oversized blazer or a classic wool coat.”
1. Rails cotton cashmere short sleeve Tee in Parisian stripe, $148.
2. Tibi washable cashmere oversized Easy T in navy, $545.
3. Tibi washable cashmere oversized Easy T in heather grey, $545.
4. Apiece Apart Spa Pleat Pant in black, $295.
5. Isabel Marant Zadd belt in black-andsilver, $250.
Short Sleeve Knits
“Is anyone else completely obsessed with vests right now? They made a major comeback last year, and we are so excited by the vests that have arrived for this fall. If you’re not totally sold on the sleeveless look, a fresh, updated blazer is always a win.”
1. Veronica Beard Tamara vest, $548.
2. Apiece Apart Helena V-neck vest in striped flax, $395, and Apiece Apart Bari crop trouser in striped flax, $495.
3. Apiece Apart short Bari short, $295.
4. Staud Cole blazer, $595.
5. Apiece Apart Merida pant in cream, $325.
“Leather is a power wardrobe builder. It instantly elevates the most basic pieces hiding in your closet, whether it’s a t-shirt, knit or even a sweatshirt. It’s also a smart space-saver when packing for travel—one piece can easily take you from daytime with sneakers to evening with pointy pumps. Yes, the price point can be an investment, but it’s one I’ve never regretted.”
1. Rails Roland coat in heather umber, $498.
2. Isabel Marant Etoile Kyanza top in ecru, $275, and SPRWMN cropped baggy trousers in truffle, $1,395.
3. Isabel Marant Tyron logo canvas hat in ecru and black, $210.
4. SPRWMN culotte in black, $1,375.
5. SPRWMN cropped baggy trousers in truffle, $1,395.
“Tibi is one of my favorite brands. Each piece is meticulously designed to work harmoniously with others, creating endless possibilities for styling while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic. They are also designed with layering in mind, allowing pieces to work across multiple seasons and occasions. If you need an easy mix & match, look no further!”
1. Veronica Beard Regina shirt, $298.
2. Tibi super fine gauge Perfect Men’s pullover, $495, and Tibi garment dyed silky cotton Asymmetrical Balloon skirt, $475.
3. Mansur Gavriel Tulipano bag, $485.
4. Dear Frances Drew loafer, $590.
5. Apiece Apart Mensy mid-rise jean, $325.
Helping Hands
WITH THE FOUNDING OF ALEGRIA COLLABORATIVE, JOY STEVENS AND DIA PARSONS HAVE CREATED A MORE COMPASSIONATE WAY TO CARE FOR MENTAL HEALTH AND ADDICTION—WHILE DECREASING THE STIGMA SURROUNDING IT
Joy Stevens and Dia Parsons each had established careers of their own when they decided to form Alegria Collaborative—a premium mental health and addiction service devoted to providing top-quality and concierge care— in 2021. Stevens had been a longtime life coach and sober companion, supporting clients in various settings, including a renowned treatment center in Malibu. Parsons, meanwhile, had worked in addiction counseling and inpatient care before moving into behavioral health and case management. Yet they had grown discouraged by the often sterile and formulaic industry. “We both saw the need for something different—a more compassionate, deeply personal and hands-on approach to care,” says Stevens. “That shared vision is what led to the creation of Alegria Collaborative.” The two have quickly established themselves as trailblazers in their field, renowned for their thoughtful approach and ability to meet the diverse needs of clients to recover safely, effectively and with unwavering support. Now, in honor of National Recovery Month, the two discuss their journey.
Q: WHAT BROUGHT YOU TO THIS WORK?
Joy Stevens: Growing up near the California coast as the oldest of four, I developed a strong sense of empathy and leadership from an early age. Since 2008, I’ve dedicated my work to supporting individuals on their path to recovery. Helping those who are suffering or feeling hopeless has become not just my profession, but my life’s purpose. I feel deeply honored to walk alongside clients and families as they navigate some of the most challenging chapters of their lives.
Dia Parsons: I was born in Los Angeles and now live in Brentwood. I’ve worked in behavioral health since 2007, always passionate about the intersection of addiction recovery and family systems. I received my counseling CADC II certification at UCLA, but my commitment to this work is also deeply personal. As a child, I split my time between my mother’s humble life in L.A. and my father’s affluent family in Asia. That contrast, and the emotional whiplash it brought, led me to self-medicate. After multiple treatment attempts, I entered recovery in 2006—and it saved my life. Today, I’m honored to help others find their path to healing.
ARTICLE BY AMANDA EBERSTEIN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHAYAN ASGHARNIA
Joy Stevens
Q: ALEGRIA COLLABORATIVE ISN’T YOUR TYPICAL RECOVERY MODEL. HOW DOES YOUR APPROACH DIFFER FROM TRADITIONAL TREATMENT CENTERS?
DP: Traditional models tend to follow rigid systems; we meet clients where they are—literally and emotionally. We’re flexible, relational and discreet. We address real-world challenges while integrating family dynamics and building sustainable accountability. It’s recovery without the assembly line.
Q: WHAT MOTIVATED YOU TO BUILD SOMETHING NEW?
JS: Far too often, clients leave treatment only to find themselves unsupported— lacking real-world accountability, continued structure and family involvement. The system excels at crisis stabilization but struggles to address what happens after. We founded Alegria to fill that gap with a model rooted in long-term support, empathy and real-life integration.
Q: WHAT ARE YOUR RESPECTIVE ROLES?
DP: As owners, we often co-manage cases alongside our team of expert case managers, offering deeply collaborative wraparound support. Our clients are typically post-treatment or opting for a customized alternative to traditional treatment, so our level of involvement is intentionally high touch. We maintain a positive partnership and are willing to jump in whenever needed.
Q: WHAT DOES THE TYPICAL CLIENT JOURNEY LOOK LIKE AT ALEGRIA?
DP: It starts with a comprehensive intake exploring mental health, history, family structure and personal goals. From there, we create a customized care plan, which may include sober coaching, case management, family systems support and crisis intervention. From day one, we create a space that’s warm and nonjudgmental and in which clients feel supported, not managed.
Dia Parsons
“We meet clients where they are— literally and emotionally. We’re flexible, relational and discreet. It’s recovery without the assembly line.”
Q: MENTAL HEALTH AND SUBSTANCE USE ISSUES OFTEN GO UNNOTICED IN HIGH-PERFORMING COMMUNITIES. WHY IS THAT, AND HOW DO YOU APPROACH IT?
JS: In high-performing or affluent circles, vulnerability is often mistaken for weakness—and the pressure to “keep it together” is immense. This creates a culture of silence. We meet that challenge with compassion, discretion and trust. No level of success shields someone from emotional pain. That’s why dignity and privacy are at the center of our approach.
Q: HOW CAN WE BEGIN TO BREAK THE STIGMA, ESPECIALLY FOR HIGH-FUNCTIONING INDIVIDUALS?
JS: When people share their struggles—the messy middle and the breakthroughs—it humanizes the recovery experience. Asking for help is not weakness; it’s a radical act of strength. We aim to normalize vulnerability and create spaces where people feel safe enough to speak up and seek support.
Q: HOW DO YOU TAILOR SERVICES FOR THESE INDIVIDUALS AND THEIR FAMILIES?
JS: We understand the unique pressures, privacy needs and complexity faced by high-net-worth families or public-facing individuals. Our concierge model is designed to be seamless, professional and private. We meet our clients with care that fits into their lives—without disrupting it—while still addressing the emotional, logistical and relational aspects of recovery.
Q: DO YOU HAVE ANY STORIES THAT CAPTURE THE SCOPE AND IMPACT OF YOUR WORK?
DP: One of my earliest cases at Alegria was uniquely complex. The client lived in New York, but their family was spread across multiple states and time zones. The client was dealing with chronic pain, mental health issues and substance use. We placed a coach to live with him full-time, providing structure and accountability. Over eight months, there were highs, lows and a completely unexpected—and ultimately powerful—outcome. That’s the beauty of this work: it’s creative, human and always evolving.
Q: WHAT DOES SUCCESS LOOK LIKE IN YOUR WORK?
DP: Success often starts with a tiny bit of willingness. When a client says, “I don’t like this, but I’ll do it anyway,” that’s the spark. From there, we build momentum. Family involvement is often a gamechanger. We help families unlearn harmful patterns and establish healthier ones. Recovery is rarely linear—but we’re there through all of it. And yes, we celebrate the wins. We love a good graduation day.
Q: SEPTEMBER IS NATIONAL RECOVERY MONTH. WHAT DOES THIS MEAN TO YOU?
JS: This month holds deep significance. It’s a time to reflect, raise awareness and reduce shame. We use this time to share stories of hope and advocate for those still struggling. Recovery is possible— and no one should ever feel they have to walk that road alone.
Alegria Collaborative; 8908 W. Olympic Blvd., Suite 200, Beverly Hills; 805-409-7203; alegriacollaborative.com
Parsons and Stevens of Alegria Collaborative
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events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS SEPTEMBER 2025
SEPTEMBER 2ND-NOVEMBER 30TH
Going Places: Travel in the Middle Ages
Getty Center, 1200 Getty Center Dr.
In medieval art, the act of movement from one place to another was conceptualized in a variety of imaginative forms. Featuring manuscripts from the Getty’s collection, this exhibition explores the reasons for travel, different modes of medieval travel and examples of typical travelers. It also showcases the wide variety of contexts for medieval movement, from religious to diplomacy, trade, exploration and exploitation. getty.edu
SEPTEMBER 4TH-27TH
Oedipus the King, Mama!
Getty Villa, 17985 Pacific Coast Hwy., Pacific Palisades | 8:00 PM
Each fall, the Getty Villa presents vibrant reimaginings of theatrical works from the ancient Mediterranean world at its outdoor classical theater. This year features the maternal musical mash-up of Sophocles's Oedipus the King with the music of the King of Rock & Roll, Elvis Presley, presented by LA’s legendary Troubadour Theater Company (aka the Troubies). Don’t be cruel to yourself and miss out! getty.edu
SEPTEMBER 6TH
A PIERfect Benefit
Santa Monica Pier, 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica | 3:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Celebrate golden hour at the first annual fundraiser benefiting the Santa Monica Pier Corporation, a 501c(3) nonprofit crafting the magic of the iconic destination for locals, visitors and dreamers. The evening will consist of cocktails, appetizers and heartfelt moments, including a special tribute to those impacted by the Palisades Fire. santamonicapier.org
SEPTEMBER 10TH
“How to Get Referrals” Workshop with Laura Pozarny
Literati Cafe, 12081 Wilshire Blvd. | 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Join top local real estate agent Laura Pozarny along with other entrepreneurs and thought leaders from a variety of industries at this fun and informative networking event. The lunch-time session is aimed at outlining strategies to grow your business through referrals. Call or text 310-740-3366 to RSVP. pozarnypropertygroup.com
SEPTEMBER 26TH
The Aunties
Skirball Cultural Center, 2701 N. Sepulveda Blvd. | 7:30 PM
Enjoy an engaging live storytelling performance celebrating the women that shape, heal and uphold Indigenous communities. This special event features three Indigenous aunties who call our local region home sharing their powerful stories live from the stage, accompanied by visual storytelling and brought to life with poetry, song and visual art. skirball.org
SEPTEMBER 27TH
Montana Avenue Art Walk
Montana Ave. from 9th-17th St., Santa Monica | 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Join this beloved annual celebration where creativity meets community. The entire retail stretch of Montana Avenue is transformed into an exclusive pedestrian-only open-air venue, welcoming thousands of residents and art aficionados and featuring more than 100 visual artists, live music, art displays and free activities for visitors of all ages. montanaave.com
Want to be featured?
THE OTHER ART FAIR
LOS ANGELES
SEPTEMBER 25TH-28TH THE BARKER HANGAR 3021 AIRPORT AVE., SANTA MONICA THEOTHERARTFAIR.COM
On Display
As the Global Fair Director for The Other Art Fair—a leading international showcase that highlights the best emerging talent from around the world—Nicole Garton oversees 12 events annually across Brooklyn, Chicago, Dallas, London, Australia and her hometown of LA. “Being part of The Other Art Fair is a dream come true,” says Garton, who resides in Brentwood. “I get to work alongside colleagues I admire to help artists bring joy with their work.” Garton’s ascent to this role was natural: She previously led marketing at Saatchi Art, where she was instrumental in transforming the start-up—now celebrating its 15th anniversary—into the world’s leading online gallery. Following Saatchi Art’s acquisition of The Other Art Fair, she played a key role in its US launch. Now, as Garton plans for The Other Art Fair’s next iteration at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica this month, she reveals an inside look.
WHAT CAN VISITORS EXPECT WHEN THEY VISIT THE OTHER ART FAIR?
There are a few mainstays that underscore what makes us “other.” Artists represent themselves at their own booths; all artworks are labeled with clearly visible prices; there will be upwards of 100 booths with thousands of original and limited edition artworks available; prices range from $100 to $5000; all exhibiting artists have been hand-selected by a committee of experts; and artists take home 82% of every sale, so visitors can feel good about supporting creators with their purchase. There are also live performances, DJ sets, hands-on experiences and other surprises.
WHAT SETS
THE OTHER ART FAIR APART FROM OTHER PLACES TO BUY ART?
Fantastically talented artists with important things to say can crop up anywhere, which is the beauty of buying online from places like Saatchi Art (saatchiart.com), where people can discover otherwise inaccessible artists. What sets The Other Art Fair apart is our mission to not only gather the most exciting art from around the world all under one roof, but also to create opportunities for everyday art lovers to meet artists in person in a fun and welcoming environment. Visitors keep coming back because they have finally found a place to belong, where they can find art in their budget and a community of other art lovers.
ARE THERE ANY LOCAL LA ARTISTS THAT WE SHOULD LOOK FOR THIS YEAR?
This will be an especially poignant edition for us, as many artists who had been accepted to show last February had to postpone their participation due to the LA fires and will be presenting this month. I’m also particularly excited about a few other local artists: Kiara Aileen Machado, known for her figurative paintings and rich palette of buttery brushstrokes; Marissa Charlwood, whose paintings of mermaids recall the startling color pairings of Paul Gauguin; Vi Nguyen, who elevates iconic branded snacks from her childhood with nostalgic glass bead embroidery; Ivaylo Angelov, whose abstract mixed media work draws on jazz, poetry and his Balkan roots; and Kipkemoi, who has been awarded our New Futures Prize for his arresting portraits depicting joy and belonging amidst the African Diaspora.
WHAT MAKES THE BARKER HANGAR SUCH A GREAT LOCATION?
There is really no place in LA quite like Santa Monica’s historic Barker Hangar. Its wide open space, barrel ceiling and storied past offers our visitors and artists alike a special environment to connect. The venue is also host to many other art events, including the Frieze Art Fair, so art lovers across the country have come to recognize the space as an ideal viewing experience.
Last year's fair at the Barker Hangar
Nicole Garton
