Home. So much is contained in that little four-letter word. Home is our grounding. Our base. Our launchpad. It’s where we start and end each day. And while the particulars may look different for each of us, the meaning and value it holds for all of us is undeniable.
Spring is a very inspiring time of year for me, as its arrival is a reminder of change. It is a time for restoration and renewal; planning and projects; dusting things off, and brightening them up.
This issue brings tips from local specialists, shops, and businesses to help you with the task of preparing for spring and getting your home ready for the warmer months, just around the corner. Our friends around El Dorado Hills will help with much-needed spring cleaning by organizing and prioritizing your checklist for your home or preparing for those backyard improvements you’ve been dreaming about all winter. Additionally, we hope you enjoy learning about a local power couple that has brought our community some incredible restaurants, giving us stunning food and amazing ambiance.
I hope these pages leave you encouraged and connected to the people and places around you. Embrace spring in your town, neighborhood, and most of all - your home.
Happy March!
KRISTY MURDOCH, PUBLISHER
@ELDORADOHILLSCITYLIFESTYLE
PUBLISHER
Kristy Murdoch | kristy.murdoch@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Todd Murdoch | todd.murdoch@citylifestyle.com
PHOTO EDITOR
Scott Hallmeyer | scott@thecreativhaus.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Cadence Murdoch
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Courtney Stockton
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Kimberly Brooke & Co, Charlene Taylor
Placerville, CA
Your El Dorado County Automotive Family
Thompsons Family of Dealerships is just a short trip up the hill from El Dorado Hills. With 3 convenient locations in scenic Placerville, choose among our selection of luxurious SUVs, trucks, and fun off-road vehicles. Enjoy the luxury of adventure here in El Dorado County.
Hummer EV and GMC
The all-new 1,000 horsepower GMC Hummer EV
Join Lyons Orthodontics for an open house-style event to hear tips on how to feel healthy, happy & confident every day. Enjoy healthy snacks & drinks, daily exercise ideas from BODYROK, and free whitening trays. Plus, be the first to hear about their special spring offer and receive your 'healthy & happy' gift bag!
Wednesday, March 13th from 12-2 pm at their El Dorado Hills Office, 4420 Town Center Blvd, Ste. 200. lyonsorthodontics.com
Saturday, March 23, 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM at 3941 Park Drive Suite 30, El Dorado Hills.
This free seminar will include: The best time to sell - Home improvements that add value - Getting your home market ready - Truth behind staging - Roadmap to effective selling strategies - 2024 real estate predictions. Catered lunch provided by Sourdough & Co. Register at onyx916.com/EDHSellerworkshop or call 916-990-4357.
It's officially been two years since owner and financial advisor Adarsh Shyamsundar opened his firm here in El Dorado Hills. His passion for the financial well-being of his clients is evident as he helps navigate them to financial freedom. He expects Polaris Capital Management to endure for decades and in the process, create meaningful financial health and wealth for their clients. polariscapitalmanagement.net
Prepare your home for the season
ARTICLE BY KRISTY MURDOCH
1. DESIGN SHOP INTERIORS’ SPRING TIPS
“This season embodies words like fresh, light, and new; we like our homes to reflect this. DSI loves a good home décor refresh. Swap out heavy blankets and dark pillows with lighter options, introducing natural textures and colors that mimic springtime. Florals, organic shapes, and rattan details are some of our current favorites.” theshopbydsi.com
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2. GET ORGANIZED WITH BLITZ YOUR SPACE
“Getting organized is a BIG part of spring cleaning. Organize closets, cabinets, drawers, and pantries to create a sense of order. If you are overwhelmed and don’t know where to begin, we can help simplify your life and find a home for all of your belongings.” blitzyourspace.com
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“Pick out and pre-order your new outdoor furniture now to ensure its timely arrival for those warmer months. We also have fire pits, grills, outdoor cushions, and patio umbrellas to round out your perfect summer backyard oasis.” emighsoutdoorliving.com
5. ACE HARDWARE CAN ELEVATE YOUR YARD GAME
“Yard clean-up is a must in the spring. Using pre-emergent for lawns and flower beds, clearing debris, and testing and repairing sprinkler systems and outdoor equipment are all essential. Our team at Ace can help with everything you need to prepare for the warmer months ahead.” acehardware.com
4. HAVE IT MADE FOR THE SHADE AND CREATE YOUR DREAM BACKYARD
Spring is the perfect time to plan your new gazebo, outdoor kitchen, or renew your decks and patios. “We love hearing your ideas and have collaborated on some amazing projects! Even the small things can make a big difference,”Tony, owner of JTL jtlcustombuilders.com
6. GIVE YOUR HOUSE A SPRING MAKEOVER!
The favorable spring weather can be ideal for your house painting projects, both indoors and out. A refreshing coat of paint can revitalize your home. Brent, owner of Bayshore Painters advises, “Handle those home projects early; beat the busy season. Open up the summer for family time!” bayshorepaints.com
MICHELE STARICCO OF BIZZY BEEZ CLEANING CO. SHARES HER STORY, OFFERINGS, AND TIPS FOR GETTING (AND KEEPING) A CLEAN HOUSE.
At the helm of local cleaning company Bizzy Beez, is the savvy proprietor, and “Queen Bee”, Michele Staricco. Michele first honed her entrepreneurial skills as a child by cleaning her grandmother’s home. She later turned this skill into a lucrative venture during college, ultimately giving rise to Bizzy Beez 15 years ago in the Bay Area. The company has achieved remarkable success and recognition, clinching the prestigious Best of Brentwood Gold Medal for six consecutive years.
“Try not to get overwhelmed – break it down by day. Do bathrooms on Mondays, and vacuuming on Tuesdays, etc., so by Friday, you’re ready for the weekend. Also, a great-smelling house makes anyone feel better.”
1. What drew your family to El Dorado Hills?
We wanted a better life and education for our kids. We appreciate the slower pace here. My family enjoys hiking, pickleball, and tennis. My son plays football for Oak Ridge and my daughter does dance, basketball, and cross country.
2. What made you decide to bring your business to El Dorado Hills?
While we were successful in the Bay, the commuting and distance were difficult to manage. This area is growing so rapidly, that they need a reliable, trustworthy house cleaning service.
3. What sets Bizzy Beez apart?
Communication is key. Our clients always appreciate our prompt response. We are also licensed, bonded, and insured while many others are not. We are authentically honest and care for our clients’ homes as we would our own.
4. What services do you offer?
We provide residential and commercial routine maintenance and deep cleaning. We specialize in move-in / move-outs, vacation rental resets, construction clean-ups, and organization services.
5. What are your best cleaning tips?
Try not to get overwhelmed – break it down by day. Do bathrooms on Mondays, vacuuming on Tuesdays, etc., so by Friday, you’re ready for the weekend. Also, a great-smelling house makes anyone feel better. To prepare for professional cleaning, I always advise my clients to have a few laundry baskets ready for loose items around the home, so that when we arrive, we can focus on cleaning. If your home is clean, you’ll have time to do other things – like organizing.
6. Are you running any promotions?
For March, we are offering a 10% off Spring cleaning special for first-time customers.
VOTED BEST WINERY 8 YEARS RUNNING! mirafloreswinery.com
Dream Catchers Theater program is thrilled to announce our performance of Mary Poppins will be on Saturday, April 6th at 7PM. Performance will be held at the Oak Ridge High School theater!
Dream Catchers is excited to share we have moved into a new office building. We are looking for monetary donations to go towards office furniture, supplies, money for outings for the groups, etc. If you have any questions, please contact us at (209) 400-1334.
It’s fair to say that the success rate for a new restaurant is low. Staggeringly so. While the exact metrics can be hard to quantify, it’s estimated that new restaurants have a 60% chance of not continuing past the first year. Consequently, being in the business of starting restaurants necessitates an intrepid spirit (or two). That’s where the Platts come in.
Though Mark and Karoline Platt have made quite a name for themselves here, neither are originally from the area –Mark is from Rochester, NY and Karoline is from Boulder, CO. The two met in Aspen, marrying in 1986, and ended up in Folsom, 11 years later.
Before opening their first restaurant, Mark had amassed an extensive background working in restaurants and Karoline had experience in hospitality. In addition to their complimentary professional expertise, they shared a mutual passion. “Our vision for our restaurants was to create a warm and welcoming environment with great food and amazing customer service,” Karoline notes.
And that they did. They had been in the market for ‘shuttered former restaurant locations,’ Karoline recalls when they happened upon the original El Dorado Hills Sienna location (formerly Mask Restaurant). Knowing the odds of establishing a successful new restaurant, one could say they gambled on their first endeavor when they opened Sienna Restaurant in 2010. But they had a remarkably steady hand as they rolled the dice. As Karoline explains, “We felt we knew the community. All of our restaurants are located in the suburbs. We understand how to cater to that crowd.”
Perhaps it was their confidence that made Sienna so successful; a legacy that continues to this day. Of course, it could also be the scintillating experience of dining at Sienna – the elegant atmosphere, delectable hand-cut steaks, fresh seafood, and warm customer service. “Sienna is our wine country-inspired brand,” Karoline shares, and this is the perfect descriptor.
Sienna has a unique ambiance that feels both luxurious and relaxed. This spirit has only been improved since the move to the Montano De El Dorado Plaza. The new location is replete with a spectacular outdoor patio area where they will be hosting special ‘Napa wine dinners’ in the spring.
While many restaurateurs would be satisfied with establishing one successful business, the Platts parlayed the success of Sienna into six more restaurants. Shortly after opening Sienna, they opened Land Ocean in Folsom in 2011 – and then Land Ocean in Roseville in 2015, another Sienna Location in Roseville in 2017, two additional Land Ocean locations in Reno, NV, and Meridian, ID in 2019 and 2021 (respectively), and finally, South Fork Grille in El Dorado Hills in 2022. Karoline describes South Fork as, ‘a bit more casual,’ with an ‘eclectic menu’ of different cuisines including sushi rolls, fun appetizers, and various seafood and meat selections.
From Sienna to South Fork, they have amassed nothing short of a culinary empire. When asked what sets them apart, Karoline answers, “Our unique locations, our weekly fitness special, and how we treat our employees. All 7 of our restaurants are solely locally owned and operated by Mark and I, and our incredible staff.”
It helps that Mark and Karoline are such a strong team. They have a natural yin-yang dynamic – he’s the numbers guy, and she has an eye for design. Needless to say, they have a wealth of experience in learning how to work together as a cohesive unit after 38 years of marriage, 14 of those as restaurant owners. “We have our ups and downs,” Karoline reflects, “but we have been able to work through issues
“Our vision for our restaurants was to create a warm and welcoming environment with great food and amazing customer service.”
“What sets us apart is our unique locations, our weekly fitness special, and how we treat our employees. All 7 of our restaurants are solely locally owned and operated by Mark and I, and our incredible staff.”
to discover where our talents are best utilized.” Framed this way, it makes perfect sense that a strong marriage would translate to a strong business partnership – and a string of successful restaurants. And perhaps this is why they have no intention of resting on their laurels. Karoline notes that they intend to open ‘a few more’ restaurants before slowly easing into retirement.
Knowing the precarious nature of the restaurant industry makes it all the more impressive to reflect on what the Platts have accomplished. They have had the kind of success that will undoubtedly leave a legacy. While neither of their children has an interest in the industry, Karoline says, “We hope that the restaurants can sustain after we retire and keep all the wonderful staff employed.” Here’s hoping the Platts don’t retire anytime soon – though fortunately for us, they have implemented a succession plan that will keep our favorite restaurants running for years to come.
What’s the secret to a happy, healthy, and long life? Believe it or not, it’s actually quite simple: There are no secret ingredients, no sizable expenditures, and absolutely zero manufactured elements of any kind. Dive in with us as we share insights from our interview with the internationally renowned Blue Zones Founder, National Geographic Explorer, and award-winning journalist who is revolutionizing the way Americans make choices that can lead to living your best life.
For over twenty years, Dan Buettner has been fully committed to studying the health and longevity of Americans as well as influencing the proper and attainable health-centric environments our communities should embody. What started with identifying five “blue zones” around the world where people are both living longer as well as enjoying a higher quality of life in their elder years has now also evolved into proactively creating eco-systems where our communities engage in setting the standard for clean health.
Most of us are well aware of the “American way of life” we reside in, that being one of convenience in all shapes and forms. We excel in offering the most fast food options in any country. We rank at the top of the most cars per household. We embrace a sedentary at-home lifestyle. In short, we categorically live in a country where processed foods and ultra-convenience, unfortunately, translate to life-threatening health diseases and a lack of organic joy.
What is the best news of all? All of these characteristics are wildly easy to overcome with effortless, yet conscious pivots to making better decisions with our time, our food, and our focus. Ask yourself: Are you driving or walking? Are you connecting socially? Set your sights on avoiding the majority of processed foods and start eating a largely whole-food and plant-based diet that will (statistically) give you another 10-12 years on your life.
Buettner’s first cookbook, The Blue Zones Kitchen, is a fantastic resource featuring ingredients and cooking methods that can increase longevity, wellness, and mental health. The recipes also include lifestyle tips such as proper portion sizes and the best times to eat dinner. Plus, check out his additional seven books that dig deep into the exact foods you should eat to how your circle of friends and family can influence your quality of life.
Who do you hang out with? Happiness is contagious. “The Blue Zone approach is to go through your contact base and think of some friends whose recreation is pickleball, biking, or gardening. Who will care about you on a bad day and have a meaningful conversation? Identify one or two friends who are vegan or vegetarian and show you how and where to eat whole foods. Actively invite them out for lunch, and bring them into your social circle: this will have a bigger, long-term impact on your behavior than any new diet or exercise, and it costs you zero. Plus, there is a ton of data that shows it works, and it’s long-term.”
Every time you go out to eat, you will consume an extra 300 calories that are laden with more sodium, sugar, and oil than eating at home. “Get your hands on a plant-based cookbook, pick a dozen recipes, and cook those with your family on Sundays. If you make the effort to cook it with your family, you will gain the skills and learn to make some good and whole food plant-based recipes.”
Tap into Dan’s wisdom that is creating a new category of places that are not merely the legacy of a healthy culture, but more consciously created by enlightened individuals that are intent on supercharging healthier communities!
This is one of my constant “go to” DIY projects. It’s fast, it’s easy and it looks oh so professional. I love displaying photos, but I don’t necessarily love a lot of photo frames. These canvases create a crisp, clean look... All in about 30 minutes! Let’s get started.
STEP 1:
First things first, grab your supplies.
• Photo on photo paper
• 1 ½ inch thick wrapped canvas
• Mod Podge in Matte finish
• Black spray paint in Satin finish
• Clear spray paint in Satin finish
• 4 inch or 6 inch foam paint roller
• Small paint tray
Place your photo on the clean, dry canvas to make sure it fits correctly. Trim if necessary.
STEP 2:
Spray paint the canvas sides and a little of the top with the black spray paint. It is VERY important to let this dry completely.
STEP 3:
Using your foam roller, roll Mod Podge over the entire top of the canvas. Center your photo on top of the wet Mod Podge. Smooth the photo with your hands starting in the middle and pushing out toward the edges
STEP 4:
Roll a thin even layer of Mod Podge over your photo. This is a little scary “painting” over your photo, but I promise it will dry clear. Once it is covered with a thin layer start at one side and roll straight rows from side to side, in the same direction, as to avoid roller lines once it dries. If you see small bubbles in the wet Mod Podge, it is too thick. Thin it out by taking an almost dry roller over the photo to lift some of the Mod Podge. Repeat until the bubbles are gone. Let this dry completely.
STEP 5:
Spray the top and sides of the entire canvas and photo with satin spray paint. Dry…Hang….High Five. Congratulations on your new Photo Canvas!
This same technique can be used on 4x4 tiles of your choice to create custom coasters. You will add a bit of Peel and Stick Cork or felt to the back of the tile so the coaster doesn’t scratch. Cheers!
MARCH 2024
EVERY SATURDAY
El Dorado Hills Town Center, South Theater Parking Lot 2085 Vine Street | 7:00 AM
A community-based event where everyone and every type of vehicle is welcome. Their motto is “If it rolls, it goes!” Come check out the cars and enjoy free coffee and donuts, while they last, from 7 AM - 9:30 AM. No registration is needed. Located in the right-side parking lot of the Regal movie theater. edhtowncenter.com
EVERY SUNDAY
Farmer's Market
El Dorado Hills Town Center | 9:00 AM
Behind Nibblers & Trek Bikes, our region’s most popular Farmer's Market! Visitors will experience fresh fruits and vegetables from local area farms, as well as homemade honey, jams, cheeses, and other household favorites from 9 AM-1 PM. edhtowncenter.com
MARCH 7TH - 9TH AND 14TH - 16TH
Oak Ridge High School - 1120 Harvard Way, El Dorado Hills
Agatha Christie's story of famous detective Hercule Poirot’s murder mystery adventure aboard the Orient Express takes on new life with the talented cast of Oak Ridge High School’s Theatre Arts Department. Reserved Seating $15 - $20. Age recommendation: 12+. Show your support and purchase tickets at ortab.org
MARCH 9TH
Thrive With 10-35 Presents 'Back the Badge' Annual Rustic Gala
El Dorado County Fairgrounds, 100 Placerville Dr, Placerville | 5:00 PM
Dust off your boots and join Thrive with 10-35, a non-profit organization to promote the well-being of El Dorado County Sheriff's Office members and their families, for their Annual Rustic Gala, The Heart Behind the Badge; a fun-filled evening of dinner, raffles, and an auction. Tickets sell out fast so purchase at heartbehindthebadge.eventbrite.com
MARCH 23RD
The Steven Young Amphitheater in EDH Town Center | 10:00 AM
Get ready for a playful day of Easter Bunny visits, photos, music, games, prizes, balloon artistry, face painting, and a magic show! All children 12 and under will receive an Easter Basket to visit participating businesses to gather 12 eggs each. Eggs filled with candy, toys, and some with a special gift. Baskets will be first come first serve. edhtowncenter.com
MARCH 30TH
Promontory Park - 2700 Alexandra Dr, El Dorado Hills | 9:00 AM
Grab your baskets and join the CSD at Promontory for a free fun and exciting Easter Egg Hunt for ages 12 and under! Bring your camera for a special photo op with the Easter Bunny! Registration is not required. Arrive early to find parking. eldoradohillscsd.org
STYLE YOUR HOME IN TONES AND TEXTURES WITH DESIGN HELP FROM HOUZZ INTERIOR DESIGN EXPERTS
ARTICLE BY NICOLETTE MARTIN
Decorate your space with handmade textures such as the modern, maker revival of 1970s macramé and year-round tropical feel of wicker. MACRAMÉ Made through knotting instead of weaving, macramé can add a unique touch in many various ways. Houzz contributor Laura Gaskill suggests incorporating it as nursery decor, plant hangers, wall hangings and modern fiber arts. WICKER According to Houzz contributor Yanic Simard, “the best way to really embrace the luxury-cottage appeal of wicker and rattan is to combine different forms of the two in one space... Look for other unexpected places to add a natural twist to your home with a new material woven into your palette.”
Houzz contributor Katie Treggiden offers many ways to incorporate natural materials and natural-state timber into your home, including using wood to cover one wall in a home for a pleasing accent wall; featuring your firewood as a striking, stacked display; and mixing different types of wood and different finishes in the same space. “A simple way to incorporate the wood trend is to expose structural wooden beams already present in your home,” Katie says. “Instead of painting them or boxing them in, leave them raw or give them a coat of wax to enrich the tones.”
No matter where they’ve lived before, we’d be happy to have your loved ones call The Pavilion home
THE SPARK™ DIFFERENCE
Based on science and research, our award-winning, purpose-driven program for seniors is inspired by Montessori Methods. SPARK™ focuses on engagement, social lifestyle, and inclusion within the community at large.
“The Pavilion creates such a warm and engaging atmosphere! They fill the resident’s days with fun activities, events, and outings! The senior’s smiling faces tell it all here! I am so proud to walk in this building feeling the joy and ‘spark’ of life!”
Pricing & Availability: (916) 526-3387
eldoradohillsmemorycare.com
2288 Francisco Dr,
El Dorado Hills, California 95762
B pavilioneldorado
