Kirkland, WA February 2023

F O O D + B E V E R AG E

SIDN E Y RI CE TACKLES TH E WIN E I N DUSTRY A R T S + C U LTU R E

TH E BE AUT Y O F NYB GALLERY M AKIN G IT WO RK: LO CAL CRE ATIV ES SHARE TH EIR PA SSIO N

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On the Market 1509 10th Street West Kirkland, Washington

4 Bedrooms | 4 Bathrooms | 5,070 sf

Offered at $9,498,000

Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to the accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed.

Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage.

From Our

Fami l y To Yours

Mike and his family serve the community they live in. Local East of Market residents for over 25 years, they know the schools, the neighborhoods, the homes and the people.

“We love and appreciate the community we serve and can offer that special touch to our clients. Raising our family here has introduced us to the daycares, schools, camps, programs, nightlife and so much more that Kirkland has to offer.

This matters for clients. We can zone in and really help people find their perfect niche within the community. We know the ins and outs for success, and that makes this job extra special.”

-Moghaddas Family

Proudly with:

MIKE MOGHADDAS

Real Estate Broker 425.830.1316 mike@moghaddasrealty.com

Timeless Northwest contemporary elegance brought to life through the master craftsmanship of John Buchan Homes.

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Luxury is an

experience.

#1 AGENT

SOLD | MARKET

SOLD | EVEREST

SOLD | MARKET

SOLD | EAST OF MARKET

SOLD | YARROW BAY

SOLD | WATERFRONT

$2,250,000

$3,250,000

by Sales Volume and Total Transactions RSIR, Kirkland (2021)

$68M+

in Sales Volume (2022)

$1,885,000

$1,450,000

425.300.7330 BrianHopper.com

© 2023 Realogics Brokerage, LLC. All rights reserved.

Each franchise is independently owned and operated.

$1,290,000

$565,000

Photo credit: Erin Schedler

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Love Local

February 2023 PUBLISHER

Caitlin Agnew | caitlin.agnew@citylifestyle.com EDITOR

Bree O’Brien | bree.obrien@citylifestyle.com EDITOR IAL COOR DINATOR

I don’t know about you, but this time of year I am always torn between resisting the commercialization of another greeting card holiday and indulging in all the sweet excuses to enjoy the season.

To do a Valentine’s Day date out or enjoy a cozy night at home? To buy a thoughtful gift or just say a kind word? I usually land somewhere a little in between. We’ll each arrive at different answers based on our preferences and personalities, but what we hold in common is an opportunity to make sure those around us know we love them. And regardless of how you choose to celebrate, we hope the pages of this month’s magazine will help you do just that as we highlight what’s to love in your local community.

As a parent of four - including two infants - I have a feeling this Valentine's Day will not be child-free. And I think that's great, to have this holiday represent all different types of love, not just the romantic variety.

While we teeter between the chill of January Winter and the excitement of Spring, we hope you’ll be inspired to take a moment to come together with the people in your life. The ones in your home and on your street. In your neighborhood and your community.

“Love local” means your local businesses, those in your community - but it also means loving what is near. Those under your own roof included. So grab a coffee at Thruline and head back for a game night around the fire with the family. Or snag a bottle of wine from The Grape Choice and some cheese from Metropolitan Market and indulge in a movie at home.

We’ve always believed what we can do together is so much more than what we can do apart. And we continue to see that demonstrated through the many stories told in these pages month after month.

Happy February!

Taylor Robinson | taylor.robinson@citylifestyle.com ACCOUNT MANAGER

Max Baker | max.baker@citylifestyle.com CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S

Caitlin Agnew, Bree O’Brien CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER S

Life N Light, Jenn Tai Photography

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell AD DESIGNER Mary Albers

BREE O'BRIEN, EDITOR @KIRKLANDLIFESTYLE

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Proctor

Learn how to start your own publication at: citylifestyle.com//franchise

Scan QR code to visit our Instagram CIT YLIFEST YLE.COM/KIRKL AND |

Proverbs 3:5-6 Kirkland Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Kirkland area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors.

Information in Kirkland Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the

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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

Mark von der Burg Maretanna Curtis Peggy Au-Yeung Brandon Hancock Kelsey Lesefko Roberta Weresh Porter Balke Erin Harper

vdbcompass.com

YOUR HOME. OUR MISSION.

@vdbcompass

brand21 @vdbcompass @vdbcompass VDB Compass

VDB is a team of real estate brokers affiliated with Compass. Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws.

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inside the issue The Local Love Issue

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F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

20 Crushing It: On and Off The Field

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Lifestyle Letter

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City Scene

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Business Monthly

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Local Experiences

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Local Limelight

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Maker’s Studio

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Inspired By

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Artist’s Palette

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Trend Setter

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Events

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Must See

Former football star Sidney Rice ventures into wine making

26 Making It Work

Three local creatives share their passions

30 It's Never Too Late...

To start dancing! Kirkland Lifestyle connects with Debbie Walford of Kirkland Dance Center

34 Experience Something Different

Owner Nayoung Buchan shares in her own words, the beauty of NYB Gallery

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Life N Light Sidney Rice sits with a glass of his Dossier wine.

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FO O D + B E V E R AG E A RTS + C U LTU R E

A RTS + C U LT UR E A RTS + C U LTU R E

HO ME + DES IG N

S HO PPI NG

! e r e h s i n o s a e gS n i l l e S 3 2 0 2 The r a e Y w e N e h t in r e h t e g o t le. a t e g S s l u f s s e Let u c c u S a r o f e m o H r u o to prepare y

Mark von der Burg First Founding Broker | Compass Seattle mark@vdbcompass.com 425.882.8821 vdbcompass.com

VDB is a team of real estate agents affiliated with Compass, a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws.

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city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

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1: "Best of Kirkland" and "Best of Bellevue" party at the Bentley, Rolls Royce, McLaren Dealership. 2: "Best Of" Attendees at the Bentley, Rolls Royce, McLaren Dealership 3: "Best Realtor" Brian Hopper & "Best Interior Designer" Nicole Hopper 4: Bentley Dealership GM Justin Misenas, Publisher Caitlin Agnew, Bellevue Mayor Lynne Robinson congratulating the winners. 5: Kirkland Lifestyle Publisher, Caitlin Agnew, and Life N' Light Photography team 6: "Best Home Remodeler" Stacy Eakman (with wife Danica Eakman). 7: "Best Jeweler" T. Anthony Jewelers

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8: Marilisa Vergottini and husband. 9: "Best Cosmetic Surgeon" Dr. Daniel Liebertz. 10: "Best Mortgage Broker" Jolene Messmer and team.

11: "Best Of" Attendees at the Bentley, Rolls Royce, McLaren Dealership 12: Mike Moghaddas and friends. 13: Gene Juarez and Sidney Rice.

14: "Best Art Gallery" Ryan James Fine Art. Pictured: Jessica Kravitz and Ryan James.

CONTINUED >

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CIT Y SCENE CONTINUED

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1: The Village at Totem Lake, Serious Pie, and Lake Washington Schools Foundation hosted Breakfast with Santa on December 10th 2: Mrs. Claus helps guests at the cocoa station with marshmallows, and sprinkles courtesy The SweetSide. 3: Serious Pie served a ham, egg, Beecher’s cheddar biscuit sandwich and fresh fruit for breakfast. 4: Mrs. Claus spreads holiday cheer to each table. 5: Santa stops for a smile as he says “ho ho ho” and spreads holiday cheer. 6: Santa brought his friends to Breakfast with Santa including the Snow Kings and his elves. 7: Guests pose for a photo with Santa.

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C I T Y SC E N E

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CINDY RICHEY PHOTOGRAPHY

1: The Fremont Bridge opening up for the Christmas Ship™ during Parade of Boats. 2: The Christmas Ship™ and 21+ Follow Boat docked and ready for boarding. 3: Children participating onboard for the Santa Claus Ho Ho Ho contest! 4: The Argosy Christmas Ship™ lit up in front of onshore audiences at Gas Works Park. 5: Argosy Christmas Ship™ on Lake Union in front of the Space Needle. 6: The back of the Spirit of Seattle vessel, with PEACE sign lit up during sailings. 7: The lit up Christmas tree on the top deck for extra festive spirit!

Want to be seen in the magazine?

Tag your Instagram photos with @kirklandlifestyle

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business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Announcing Launch of New Real Estate TV Show Featuring Kirkland The American Dream is proud to announce the release of "Selling Kirkland" which will air locally on various channels beginning in January.

The show highlights elite realtors in each market, chosen for their expertise, reputation, and recognition from peers and consumers. Celeste Zarling will host "Selling Kirkland" to bring the people of Kirkland together to learn and grow while sharing contributing topics that will enrich their lives, plans, and business. More information sellingkirkland.com Photography Courtesy of Celeste Zarling

Book a Private Picnic in a Bubble!

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a oneof-a-kind experience you’ll remember forever! Picnic Party Seattle provides a luxury picnic experience for two, all in a heated private bubble. We’ll customize a setup just for you and your sweetheart. Choose a park nearby or have our team set up in your backyard. Table & Chair setups available upon request! For more information picnicparty.com/seattle Photography Courtesy of Picnic Party Seattle

Mo’ bubbles, less problems at Pop! Culture Champagne Bar Back that glass up! Swing by your friendly neighborhood champagne bar, where the sound of popping corks never stops, and the bubbly and beats always flow. Overlooking the Kirkland marina, this casual little bar loves to host all of life’s celebrations, big or small! With one of the largest sparkling selections on the Eastside, four wine clubs, bottles to go, simple bites, and selfie-encouraging décor, they serve up delicious experiences for every palate and budget.

Photography Courtesy of Pop! Culture Champagne Bar

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Kirkland

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B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

THE AIRBNB GAME: FRIEND OR FOE?

2020 kicked off a boom for the short term rental market despite huge media speculation to the opposite. So much so that 2021 saw an impressive increase in inventory of vacation rentals, with many buyers investing in the luxury second home market.

In fact, since 2019 sales of second properties worth $1 million or more have been increasing by 25% year on year. Now, amongst rumors of rentals sitting vacant, nay-sayers speculate once more that the era of the Airbnb is headed to a bust. Not so. Whilst this surge in new rentals has increased choice for consumers and therefore heightened competition, Airbnb cites that demand continues to grow each month.

MARILISA VERGOT TINI Broker 206.599.9908 marilisa@compass.com luxuryseattleliving.com

Travel remains strong and in fact rising inflation has favored the “staycation” market with travelers opting for local adventures versus international travel.

However, more choice means that owners need to be a lot shrewder in the way they market their properties and how they compete on nightly rates. In a market synonymous with what we are experiencing in primary home residential sales, owners are being forced to up their game in order to attract more customers. In my mind, this presents an exciting opportunity to differentiate your vacation rental listing by partnering with local businesses to enhance the personalized experiences you offer and tailoring stays into curated, exceptional experiences.

About Marilisa: A seasoned real estate broker within Compass WA, Marilisa helps clients relocate, purchase investment homes, sell and buy property. Her core strengths center around full service marketing, negotiation and project management, while keeping her clients’ needs front and center.

Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to the accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage.

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local experiences The best places and things to do in our area.

From restaurants, shops, artists and more, show your love and support to our city’s creatives and visionaries. Enjoy these local establishments that you’re sure to fall for while simultaneously giving back to our city’s economy.

Our Picks to Show Your Local Love BELLA SIR ENA BOUTIQUE SALON: Bella Sirena uses Aveda products for services leaving guests feeling luxurious. A cup of tea and a warm, aromatic towel make the experience complete. 218 Kirkland Ave Kirkland, WA SWEET CAKES: This bakery features a wide variety of sweets, which include unique cupcakes, dessert bars, cake pops with gluten free, egg free and dairy free options. 218 Park Ln Kirkland, WA R ISTOR ANTE PAR ADISO: A Kirkland institution, Paradiso serves authentic Italian cuisine in a cozy and charming space. 120 Park Ln Ste A Kirkland, WA SMALL THR EADS FOR KIDS: Featuring pre-loved merchandise that boasts the perfect blend of style, quality and functionality, this consignment shop is full of great finds. 12507 116th Ave NE, Kirkland, WA CLEMENTINE: A two-story boutique with unique home décor and gifts for your home, friends, family, and you. Don't miss the upstairs! 126 Park Lane, Kirkland, WA

Scan for more photos and the full list.

Bella Sirena Boutique Salon

Want to recommend a local experience?

Scan the QR code and message us on Instagram.

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LOCA L E X P E R IE N C E S

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ARTICLE BY CAITLIN AGNEW | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LIFE N LIGHT

Crushing It: On and Off The Field FORMER FOOTBALL STAR, SIDNEY RICE, VENTURES INTO WINE MAKING

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LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | FOOD + BE VE RAGE

Many may know and recognize Sidney Rice from his NFL days, in particular when he played for the Seattle Seahawks, with whom he became a champion in Super Bowl XLVIII. What many might not know, is that he has since become a successful entrepreneur and an important part of the Eastside community through his many business ventures. “I was always interested in entrepreneurship. As early as I can remember, I was paying my friends my hardearned pennies to dig random holes to see how far we could get down,” says Rice. Clearly his drive and

work ethic from the field to the boardroom have some overlap. “It all ties in together in my opinion (football and business). In order to stay sharp and be successful at anything, you must study and practice those crafts,” says Rice. Kirkland Lifestyle had the opportunity to meet with Sidney to discuss his new venture, Dossier Wine, as well other projects on the horizon.

WHAT HAS YOUR POST-FOOTBALL JOURNEY BEEN LIKE? My post-football journey has been an amazing experience here in the Seattle area. I’ve been fortunate enough to create a lot of different opportunities for people in the community which is very important to me. It’s a rewarding feeling to be able to give back to the people who supported me throughout my career.

The support that the fans have shown in my different business ventures has been tremendous. It’s one of the reasons I decided to make the Eastside my home.

TELL US ABOUT DOSSIER WINE. A lot of people think that any wine venture must be a passion project. That holds true in this but ultimately my partner, Tim Lenihan, and I both see something special with Dossier. We feel like there is a niche that has yet to be embarked on. Our ultimate goal is to continue to push forward the amazing industry of wine in Washington State, but we also feel like the experience for people is very important. Our events and dinners we have decided to create are memorable experiences for our Dossier Wine Family.

ANY NEW BUSINESS IDEAS ON THE HORIZON? I’m a fairly active investor and entrepreneur, and am always incubating new ventures with a core group of co-investors and business partners. There are a few releasing in the very near future that I’m particularly excited about.

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We just acquired Sodo, a men’s athletic lifestyle apparel brand founded in Sodo, Seattle.

I’ve been a long-time customer of this brand and it’s exciting to reinvigorate it with a modern approach to design and relationship with our customers. This should be live in March 2023.

We are in beta with Catapult, a platform that works with the Department of Defense to connect veterans with the right roles in renewable energy, and our goal is to help find a significant percentage of the 200,000 transitioning vets great careers in a growing field by Q4 of 2023.

We have a survival blanket company called SIREN, that has a heat retention technology that was developed for emergency rooms and trauma patients. We’re fortunate to be in a position with SIREN to contribute a significant number of blankets to people in Ukraine who are facing a terrible winter ahead. Our product will save lives there.

And, you know I love wine. We’re in the development stages of a WineTech concept that would reduce the risk of buying spoiled product for buyers of aged, fine wines.

IS THERE A MOTTO THAT HELPS GUIDE YOU? I don’t think I have a specific motto. But I do love the quote, “Choose a job that you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.” I feel like a lot of people pass up on their passions for instant gratification. They’ll get a job that pays them well for the moment but trade off something they are very passionate about. I like to encourage people who have a working skill to try and start their own business if at all possible.

“The support that fans have shown in my different business ventures has been tremendous. It’s one of the reasons I decided to make the Eastside my home.”

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LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | FOOD + BE VE RAGE

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Dream House Raffle Washington

Benefiting Special Olympics Washington Proceeds benefit Special Olympics Washington, a nonprofit charitable organization that provides year-round sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

The Puget Sound Dream Home Make this 5,220 square foot masterpiece your new home! Or take up to $4 million in cash.

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PugetSoundRaffle.com/lifestyle

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Enter by February 24 to be included in the Lucid, Sprinter, or $100K Early Bird 1 Drawing!

Tickets are $150 each ∙ 3-packs are $400 ∙ 5-packs are $550 ∙ All entries received before February 24, 2023 will be entered into ALL Early Bird Drawings, as well as the Grand Prize Drawing. Our Early Bird 1 winner chooses between a Lucid Air Pure, a Mercedes Sprinter Van Custom Conversion, or $100,000 cash. Don’t miss out—get your tickets early!

The Grand Prize winner chooses either the $9 million Dream House, a $4,000,000 annuity, or a $2,800,000 cash option. If fewer than 84,000 tickets are sold the Grand Prize will become a choice between an annuity worth 50% of the net raffle proceeds, or a one-time cash payment of 70% of the annuity value. Raffle subject to the rules and regulations found on pugetsoundraffle.com. © 2023 Special Olympics Washington

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ARTICLE BY BREE O'BRIEN | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF INTERVIEWEES

Making It Work THREE LOCAL CREATIVES SHARE THEIR PASSIONS

Kayla Heffner Seatown Sweets Some of my earliest memories from childhood are when I would bake with my grandmother at Christmas making frosted sugar cookies. These experiences sparked a love of baking. I learned how to bake on my own with cake mixes and recipe books and had fun experimenting with melting chocolate and molds as I got older.

After college, I rediscovered my passion for baking and pored over recipes on Pinterest, the source of some of my favorites even today. After years taking baking classes and testing recipes, I discovered I had a knack for buttercream and noticed that bakeries producing custom-made desserts are few and far between. Thus, Seatown Sweets was born.

Founded in 2017, Seatown Sweets specializes in hand-made and scratch-baked sugar cookies, buttercream cakes, cake pops, mini cheesecakes, cupcakes and other sweet treats that taste as good as they look.

My favorite desserts to make are cupcakes.

We bake for all occasions and celebrations.

As the bakery continues to grow, this year we are looking for a larger space for production with a storefront to showcase our creations.

Photo credit: Jenn Tai Photography

Kayla Heffner

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M AK E R’S ST U D IO | A RTS + CULTURE

Yong Cha

Yong Cha Pottery

A programmer and a potter. That’s how Yong Cha describes himself. When he and wife Eliza were living in New York, a group of acquaintances developed an interest in becoming “makers.” There was a pottery studio around the corner from Cha’s home called Mud, Sweat, and Tears that offered classes, and that’s where he got hooked.

Adding to the fun, many of the teachers worked on Broadway and would belt out a tune in class. After moving to Kirkland in 2013, Cha found the Kirkland Arts Center and continued to take classes, honing his craft.

When asked what inspires him, Cha says, “I always want to go back to basics and use my hands to create a vessel that can hold liquid. I don’t use many tools.

Throwing clay on a wheel and centering it is very meditative. There are times I’m almost in a trance, lifting the clay.” He also enjoys giving his creations as gifts.

In 2023, Cha plans to explore “moon jars and landscape and the body of clay where it’s not glazed.” His work can be found at the Bellevue Club, as well as his Instagram account @yongwon.cha CONTINUED >

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Jennifer Huffman Sweet Serenity Since it was founded six years ago, Sweet Serenity has seen an evolution. Originally conceived and launched as an online candle company, during the height of the pandemic it became an outdoor flower cart at Totem Lake Village, which gave rise to an indoor pop-up shop at the Village, and then a new storefront on Park Lane in downtown Kirkland last year. The storefront offers both custom-to-order and grab-and-go arrangements, while customers at the flower bar (cart) can select the blooms and foliage they like and Sweet Serenity staff will put it together.

Originally from Atlanta, Huffman began working with flowers in high school as a hobby. She describes her style as whimsical, “We’re not your traditional florist.”

She counts roses, ranunculus, snapdragons, dahlias, and silver dollar eucalyptus among her favorites to work with.

In addition to arrangements and handpoured candles (you pick the scent!), Sweet Serenity provides wreath-making and other classes with champagne and dessert. The downtown store can be rented out for private events like corporate team-building and even a wedding reception. We can’t wait to see what Sweet Serenity does in 2023!

Jennifer Huffman

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M AK E R’S ST U D IO | A RTS + CULTURE

MN Custom Homes Proudly Presents…

KIRKLAND SPRING SHOWCASE

Explore the homes on market to buy new or gather inspiration for a future presale home

I T 'S N E V E R T O O L AT E . . .

TO STA RT DA N C I N G ! K IRK L AN D L IFE STY L E CO NN EC TS W I TH D E B B IE WAL FORD O F K I RK LA N D DA N CE CE N TE R

W H AT ’ S T H E K D C ’ S O R I G I N S T O R Y ?

In 2000, after several years of working long hours in accounting, I was on maternity leave with my second daughter, and started to second guess my career choice. I asked myself “What are you passionate about?” At that time, it was soccer, dance, and kids. Because I already continued to play soccer with many of my college teammates, I decided to pursue my other passion and open a dance studio. In November 2002, Kirkland Dance Center opened and after a few bumpy years in the beginning and of course during COVID, KDC has filled me with a tremendous amount of joy. My goal was to establish a place where everyone felt comfortable and free to express themselves without any judgment. KDC has been that and so much more.

W H AT M A K E S T H E D A N C E C E N T E R S P E C I A L?

There are few community resources left in the area for this type of use, especially as we understand the need to support other non-profit uses. Adult drop-in classes draw dancers from multiple Eastside and farther out cities. One of the most inspiring things about KDC is the welcoming and supportive atmosphere; people cheer you on which is rare to see in more competitive environments. KDC’s mantra, “It’s never too late to start dancing” is apparent in the classes and embodied by the teaching staff. Dance supports mental and physical health and is such an important opportunity for the art of expression and movement.

KDC’s positive impact on the community was never more evident than during COVID when we relied on fundraisers to pay our rent. We produced a virtual show which included clips from teachers and students sharing what KDC means to them.

Most could not get through without getting teary. KDC is a second home to many, and this home has all the comforts of respect, acceptance, and belonging.

In addition, various ethnic dance community groups that are vital to the fabric of the Eastside and Kirkland communities use our space to connect, rehearse and perform. This includes Indian classical dance, Romanian folk, Japanese martial arts, Irish dancing, Spanish flamenco etc.

W H AT W O U L D Y O U S AY T O S O M E O N E W H O H A S N E V E R TRIED DANCE BEFORE BUT IS INTERESTED TO BEGIN?

ARTICLE BY BREE O'BRIEN | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF KIRKLAND DANCE CENTER

Of course, the first thing I would say is “It’s never too late to start dancing!”

“AS A DA N C ER BEFORE I HAD K ID S, IT WAS HUMB LI N G A N D N OT E ASY TO WA LK B AC K I N TO A ST U D I O 2 0+ Y E A RS LATER; AN D IT WAS SUCH AN AP P ROAC H A B LE , AC C E PT I N G , A N D I N S PI R I N G G R O U P O F PE O PLE.” - J ENN I FER LEAV I TT, VP OF MARK E TIN G AT THE B E LLE V U E C O LLE C T I O N

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I NSP IR E D BY | A RTS + CULTURE

“N OW I BOTH TE ACH AN D TAK E CL ASSE S A N D I C O N T I N U E TO BE I MPRESSE D W ITH HOW W E LCOMING T H I S ST U DI O I S A N D HOW MAN Y P E OP L E HAVE B E N E FITT E D F R O M I T I N T H E C OMMUN ITY.” - JE N N IFE R L E AVITT

My suggestion is to be brave and give it a try. Because all of the classes are drop-in, you can start any time and come as often or as little as you like. Start off with a beginning ballet, jazz or hip-hop class. The teachers and students are so encouraging and non-judgmental. We will also be having a “Dance Jam” in February which is a way to try a bunch of different genres in a 4-hour period of time to see what classes and/ or teaching style you like.

W H AT D O YO U LIKE AB O UT B E ING PART O F TH E KIR KLAND COMMUNITY?

Although it is growing quickly, Kirkland still maintains a hometown, small city feel that values its legacy and community assets. We feel like we are one of those assets, especially given our 20 years here. Our student classes are well supported as parents love to be able to have their children dance at a studio right in their “backyard.”

As part of our focus on the community, we have had several outreach programs including producing shows benefiting other nonprofits, and providing scholarship programs targeting low-income or at-risk children.

D E B B I E WA L F O R D

A Seattle native, KDC Director Debbie Walford began tap-dancing at five and playing soccer at seven. She continued tap through high school and soccer through college at Western Washington University where she was first team All-American and inducted into the Hall of Fame.

Walford started as a CPA, raised two daughters in Kirkland and still plays soccer. She’s also CFO of a software development company.

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Catered to you, onsite, and on your schedule.

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ARTICLE BY BREE O'BRIEN | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF NAYOUNG BUCHAN

Experience Something Different Owner Nayoung Buchan shares in her own words, the beauty of NYB Gallery

"Segment Drawing" 2015, by Sun K Kwak

"The Pink Board Project" 2021, a public project during the pandemic where anyone could walk in and paint what they wanted on the pink wall.

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A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | ARTS + CULTURE

Nayoung Buchan

Tell us a bit about yourself.

I’ve spent most of my adult life on a few different continents, in many different cities and countries for over three decades. I majored in classical music and studied fashion and worked in the design and build industry before moving to fine art. I have three rescued street cats from Mumbai, India

CONTINUED >

"60 lb of Dust, 2 kg of Sand, 32 g of Ash"

by Sun K Kwak, 2015

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / KI R KL A N D

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What inspired you to open an art gallery?

When I was in the design and build industry (in the US called architecture/engineering) I was very convinced that less cosmetic detail in interior design would be much more impactful rather than combining good artwork and characterizing the landmark of the property both public and residential. Of course, I have been a big art lover ever since.

All the experiences of living in many different cultures, I thought it would be good to introduce to our beautiful community what is current in terms of international contemporary fine art balanced with nice local and American artists’ work.

How did you decide to open the gallery in its current space?

I was very lucky to find it here in Carillon Point, where I live very close by. I took the space from the previous tenant that was retiring after 30 + years, good karma I believe.

What is on the calendar for your gallery for 2023?

We are continuing to show the great American painter, Bette Ridgeway till early 2023 and another local/international artist’s solo exhibition, followed by an Italian photographer.

Toward the end of the year, we’ll feature a well-known pop artist from Asia.

What do you enjoy most about owning an art gallery?

When my collector came back and told me how much they’re getting emotional value from day-to-day moments with the piece they acquired. Also, they have become a great art critic of the pieces and the artists and I learn frequently from them.

In addition, introducing international contemporary fine art from different parts of the world to our community since this greater Seattle and Eastside area is becoming very metropolitan. It is very important that our young generation gets to experience something different, which is why NYB gallery has the annual children’s exhibition that they can also participate in.

Curated for Summer 2022 "La nuit d'ete" by Caitlin Agnew (far right), Sun K Kwak's "Study for Space Drawing at Lincoln Center" (center), and contemporary work by Sooyeon Hong (left)

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A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | ARTS + CULTURE

Built With The Future In Mind

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Redefining the Private Chef Neo Comfort Cuisine • Intimate events & receptions • Customized dietary meal plans • Catered events

206.825.2030 | 2468culinary.com FEB R UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / KI R KL A N D

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ELEVATE YOUR CLOSET 5 WAYS TO O R G A N I Z E A N D

Every woman dreams of an organized and beautiful closet space, but it often comes last on the list of places that get their time and attention. Follow our five tips for transforming and elevating your closet as you Spring clean and declutter for a more peaceful, inspired space you absolutely love.

A sneak peek inside the closet of active mom and entrepreneur Keri Tarantino of Leawood, KS reveals a dressing room that rivals celebrity homes in Beverly Hills. But it didn’t come easily. Keri painstakingly planned, designed and curated the space with care.

When we first stepped inside, we gasped as our eyes beheld the glory. No detail went unnoticed in this dreamy dressing room. Here are some guiding principles that can be drawn from her exquisite taste and vision. How you organize your closet will of course differ based on the size of your space, the size of your wardrobe, and the kind of life you lead. But applying the guidelines Keri used in her space will result in a much more organized and aesthetically pleasing space.

USE R EAL ESTATE W ISELY Reserve the front and middle of the closet for clothes worn most often. For someone who gets dressed for work each morning at 6 a.m., work clothes should be at the front of the closet. Store lesser-worn items like formal wear and out-of-season clothes toward the back and on the upper shelves. The large mirror and counter with chair provides the perfect spot to select jewelry and finalize finishing outfit touches.

While every closet is different, the key here is everything has a home.

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T R E N D SE T T E R | HOM E + DE S I GN

ARTICLE BY HALEY WILLIAMS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CASSANDRA CASTANEDA

INJECT ST YLE INTO YOUR SPACE

02

ORGA NIZE BY K IND A ND COLOR

Group clothes by kind first and color second. This ensures quick location of that favorite shirt when it’s needed. Bonus - it’s easy on the eye. Group like with like: Gather belts, sweaters, long-sleeve shirts, work pants, dresses, button-down shirts, jeans, shorts, etc., and decide the best place to store each item as a group (e.g., hang pants in the closet, fold and stack sweaters in a bureau). Working with groupings will help you figure out how much space you need and the best way to store each type of item.

03 04 05 NEGATIVE SPACE

Using space efficiently is important, but keep in mind every good design includes some negative space. For instance, consider adding built-ins on the long wall of your closet but keep the short wall open with a mirror.

FACE CLOTHES THE SA ME DIR ECTION

It may seem silly, but when dealing with a small space, little things count. Hanging all clothes the same direction is a no-brainer for continuity in your closet.

UPGR ADED HA NGERS

The simplest and fastest way to make a BIG difference in your closet organization is to get matching hangers that go beyond the traditional plastic or wire hangers. And for sure ditch any with paper from the dry cleaner! Here’s a few of our favorite elevated hangers:

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / KI R KL A N D

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F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 3

events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

FEBR UARY 3 R D-11TH

Seattle Boat Show

LUME N F I E L D E V E NT CE N T E R A ND B E L L H A R B O R MA RI N A The Seattle Boat Show, the largest on the West Coast, attracts boaters from all across the country and Canada who are in the market for a new boat or want to shop for the latest in accessories and technology. More information at seattle boatshow.com

HEADSHOTS by life n light studios

FEBR UARY 3 R D

Mat Kearney The Acoustic Trio Tour

KIRKLAND PERFORMANCE CENTER, 350 KIRKLAND AVE, KIRKLAND, WA 98033 | 7:00 PM Mat Kearney’s arching, mellow compositions and deft blending of hip-hop, CCM, and folk have made him a live favorite and adult contemporary mainstay. Enjoy an intimate performance at the Kirkland Performance Center. Tickets and info at kpcenter.org FEBR UARY 4 TH

Year of the Rabbit Celebration

S E AT T L E ' S C H I NATOWN I NT E R NAT I O NA L DI ST RI C T | 1 0 :0 0 A M Vendor booths line the streets, dance performances and music grace the main stage at Hing Hay Park, families walk along S. King St., you can truly feel the atmosphere of this cultural intersection. Come and celebrate! Find out more at

MORE INFO:

lifenlight.co

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EVE N TS

seattlechinatownid.com

LUTRON® AND BUDGET BLINDS® F E BRUA RY 1 1 T H

Alexander's Hope Valentine's Day Dash

M ARINA PARK, 25 LAKES HORE PLAZ A D RIVE , KIR KLAN D, WA | 9: 0 0 AM Alexander's Hope Valentine's Day Dash is fun for all! It is a 5K Run/Walk (strollers & dogs are welcomed!) around Downtown Kirkland & the Kirkland waterfront on February 11th.

All proceeds go to support local nonprofit, Alexander's Hope, and youth heart screenings at local high schools keeping kids heart safe! Learn more at alexandershope.org

MAKE HOME AUTOMATION EASY TO USE AND EASY TO AFFORD! North America’s #1 provider of custom window coverings and the most established name in smart home technology team up to give you total smart home integration.

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F E BRUA RY 1 1 T H

Wheels & Reels Drive-in Movies: Top Gun Maverick

JUANITA BE AC H PARK, 9703 NE JUANITA D R, KIR KLAN D, WA 980 3 4 | 7 : 00 PM Enjoy a night out under the stars at Juanita Beach Park with our Winter Drive-in Movie Series. The parking lot opens at 6:00 PM and the movie starts at 7:00 PM. Watch each movie on our giant LED movie screen! $20 per vehicle, pre-registration is required. To register, visit KirklandParks.net or call 425-5873336. Snack vendors will be on site.

F E BRUA RY 1 5T H - 19TH

Northwest Flower & Garden Festival

SEAT TLE CO NV EN TION CE NT ER, 7 0 5 P IKE STREET, SEAT TLE , WA | 9:00 AM Celebrate “Spring Vibes Only” with over 20 display gardens, more than 90 free seminars and workshops, and thousands of treasures in the garden marketplace.

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting to dig in the dirt, there’s something for everyone! Learn more at gardenshow.com

Use the remote or control your entire home with a smart phone.

Smart shades, smart lights, and smart thermostat integrate beautifully with your choice of smart home devices • Amazon® Alexa, Apple® HomeKit™, Google® Assistant, Nest®, Sonos® and more — control your shades, lights, temperature and more from any mobile device by using the Lutron app • Program shades to automatically open and close for security and energy savings • No new wiring required

The Lutron App controls shades, lights and temperature

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8429 122 ave. n.e. Kirkland, WA. 98033 (Across from Starbucks)!

Mon-Fri. 10-5 and Saturdays 10-3

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Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Kirkland

©2018 Budget Blinds, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Budget Blinds is a trademark of Budget Blinds, LLC and a Home Franchise Concepts Brand. Each franchise independently owned and operated.

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / KI R KL A N D

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FUN FOR EVERYONE KIRKLAND URBAN IS USING ACCESSIBILITY KITS TO HELP MORE FAMILIES JOIN THE FUN

Jackie Socha

ARTICLE BY BREE O'BRIEN | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF KIRKLAND URBAN

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M UST SE E | SHOPPING

The accessibility kit

Kirkland Urban, which hosts approximately 20 events throughout the year, is working to ensure that those affairs are accessible for an increasing number of people. Kirkland Lifestyle caught up with Jackie Socha, General Manager at Kirkland Urban, to hear about the accessibility kits that are available at KU events. She shared that in thinking about how to use events to help families feel part of the community, making it easier for everyone to participate supported that goal.

The kits cater to families who have a member who is highly sensitive to noise and activity and may become overstimulated at busy events. They contain headphones, fidget spinners, earplugs, and a cup to dial down or distract from too much sensory stimuli. All Kirkland Urban events have kits available, and typically 5-10 are distributed per event.

Among KU events, Pride and the May the 4th Be With You event (which people attended in costume), and Halloween event Treat Street are some of the best attended. Events are put on by Urban management with participation by retailers and community partners like the Kirkland Downtown Association and the Chamber of Commerce. As Urban is still a new property, Socha explains that they will see what works maximizing community attendance at events, and watch for ways to make events even more inclusive for kids and adults.

COMPASS CONCIERGE

TESTIMONIAL

BEFORE

AFTER

Catherine and McKenna met with us at our home last December and helped us design our updates for the house. They met with contractors and obtained quotes for all of the planned updates and repairs. When our tenants moved out they had our home completely transformed.

We hadn’t updated anything since 1990 - they chose the paint colors, appliances, carpets, tiles, countertops, etc., plus they had the house staged, photographed, and on the market within 4 weeks. We sold our house for $300k more than we would have without their effort. The updates and repairs were paid for upfront through their Compass Concierge Program, and at closing we paid back the cost with ZERO interest. Catherine and McKenna are great what they do and they are our real estate agents and recommend them highly.

- Rose Hill Seller

FERRERA TEAM Catherine & McKenna Ferrera 206.579.1077 - 425.891.1955 catherine@ferrerateam.com mckenna@ferrerateam.com

$1.7MM

MARKET STREET

Lakeview Terrace $4.25MM

MARKET EXPERTISE. PRESTIGE SERVICE. PERSONAL CONNECTIONS. $1.995MM

EAST OF MARKET

Max Rombakh M A N AG I N G B R O K E R LUXURY MARKETING SPECIALIST

CELL EMAIL WEB

2 0 6 . 2 2 7. 0 7 3 7 M A X R @ W I N D E R M E R E .C O M M A X R O M B A K H .C O M

M A X R O M B A K H .CO M