SHOPPING THE LITTLE BRAND WITH A BIG HEART
LIFE + CULTURE BALANCING CAREER AND MOTHERHOOD
SPORTS + RECREATION SUNNY DAY TRADITIONS
LIFESTYLE LETTER
Kids & Family
Whether you’re raising toddlers, teenagers, or simply spending time with the little ones in your life, our Kids & Family issue offers something for every stage. We’ve rounded up local events and inspiring family stories; from kid related businesses to parents making bold career moves without losing sight of what matters most, we’re proud to share voices that reflect the heart of our neighborhoods.
As always, thank you for letting us be a part of your journey. Whether you're flipping through this magazine with your morning coffee, sharing an article with a friend, or dog-earing a page for a future outing, we’re grateful to be alongside you in both the playful and profound parts of life.
Here’s to long summer days, sticky popsicle hands, backyard adventures, and the people who make it all worthwhile.
CAITLIN AGNEW, PUBLISHER @KIRKLANDLIFESTYLE
August 2025 Visit our Instagram
PUBLISHER
Caitlin Agnew | caitlin.agnew@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Taylor Robinson | taylor.robinson@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Bree O’Brien
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Life N Light, Sunny Martini
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall
LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
MEET TEAM Vincent
We are Kirkland lifetime residents; Katherine lives in the Houghton neighborhood where she grew up, and we both went to Lakeview Elementary. (Go Leopards!) we have watched Kirkland grow from a quiet town to a bustling city, and seen first hand just how rapidly the local Real Estate market has evolved alongside the Eastside’s tech boom.
Today’s Real Estate market is complicated and competitive. Our industry knowledge and experience, partnered with the power of Windermere, allows us to represent you with the strongest positioning possible. It is more crucial than ever to align yourself with Real Estate experts in order to stand out and ultimately win.
Whether you are a first time homebuyer, or looking for strong investments, our team will design a unique marketing strategy, negotiate on your behalf and work diligently to meet your financial goals and exceed your expectations.
We cannot wait to welcome you to our beautiful Kirkland.
KATHERINE VINCENT
LUXURY BROKER, WINDERMERE YARROW BAY
206.910.2122
KVINCENT@WINDERMERE.COM
KATHERINEVINCENTRE.COM
ZACHARY VINCENT
BROKER, WINDERMERE YARROW BAY
206.922.5024
ZVINCENT@WINDERMERE.COM
YOUR DREAM HOME, UNIQUELY YOURS.
city scene
The Larrabee Center’s 35th Anniversary Soirée 1: Cheers to 35 years! Toasting a legacy with bubbly and celebration. 2: Team Larrabee –celebrating 35 years with pride, purpose, and plenty of smiles. 3: Dr. Larrabee’s heartfelt words honoring the journey and future of Larrabee Center. 4: The Pavilion set the stage for a beautiful anniversary celebration. 5: Sharing gratitude, stories, and smiles at the 35th anniversary toast. 6: Connecting with guests and celebrating 35 years of impact. 7: Guests enjoying every moment of the elegant anniversary gathering. Photography by Ludeman Photographic
Celebrating Max Rombakh’s Milestone Grand Opening! 8: Catering by BeachHouse bar + grill 9: Official Ribbon Cutting Ceremony with Kirkland Chamber. 10: Angel Whitney, Wells Fargo Mortgage + Bob Steedman, Windermere Yarrow Bay Branch Manager. 11: Erena Rombakh Windermere Real Estate, Kristina Rombakh Guild Mortgage and Bob Steedman, Windermere Yarrow Bay Branch Manager. 12: Max & Nadia Rombakh with Kirkland Chamber Exec Director Kathy Straub 13: Max Rombakh and BeachHouse bar + grill Chef and Owner, Ricky Eng.
Photography by Panravee Photography
The 2025 Futurecast Forum 15: On June 5th, the Futurecast Forum was held at the Kirkland Performance Center arraying market luminaries in the residential real estate industry. 16: Two dozen contributors and industry leading brands collaborated on the 2025 Futurecast Forum. 17: Chris Ishii of Mercer Island City Lifestyle moderates a panel on FOMI vs. FOMO. 18: Several hundred attendees enjoyed a morning mix and mingle in the foyer. 19: Tadashi Shiga, Co-Founder of Realtie and land broker for Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty educates on House Bill 1110. 20: Event hosts, Taylor Robinson (left) and Dean Jones (right), welcomed UBS CIO Jonathan Woloshin and economist Matthew Gardner for a spirited debate. 21: An attentive audience included real estate brokers, developers, lenders and industry advisors from numerous states. Photography by Clarity Northwest Photography
A D U
Free Summer Concerts & Sunset Markets at Kirkland Urban
Get ready for sun, sounds, and summer vibes at Kirkland Urban! Join us in the plaza for our Summer Sounds Concerts Series on Tuesdays (July 15, 29 & August 12, 26 from 4–6 pm) with amazing local bands. Then stroll our Sunset Markets on Thursdays (July 17, 31 & August 14, 28 from 4–7 pm) for 25+ vendors, tasty bites, and live DJs. Bring your whole crew for a summer of fun!
High-Flying Fun on the Water: Seafair Weekend Festival Returns
Seafair Weekend Festival returns August 1–3 at Genesee Park on Lake Washington for Seattle’s ultimate summer celebration! This three-day extravaganza features the iconic Seafair Cup hydroplane races, Blue Angels air show, live music, food trucks, a classic car show, family fun, and military demos. Friday admission is free, courtesy of sponsors, with premium seating options available. Celebrate the spirit, energy, and scenic beauty of the Pacific Northwest at this high-flying, highspeed waterfront festival!
Photography Committee
Join
100+ Wineries for Auction of Washington Wines Winemaker Picnic!
The best wine party of the summer is back! The Winemaker Picnic is bigger and better than ever, with more than 100 wineries, 8 local chefs, and a live barrel auction where you can watch all the action and bid on one-of-a-kind wines! Two Vintner Stations feature wines from 30 of Washington’s top vintners and a Sparkling and Rosé tasting bar offer pairing options with the lineup of gourmet food. Come join the fun!
Photography by Kirkland Urban
Photography by Seafair
Photography by Curbow Photo
Dive Into the 2025 WATERFRONT REPORT
Explore the trends shaping the region’s distinctive and desirable waterfront market in Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty’s 2025 Waterfront Report. With insightful yearover-year analysis, examinations of the most relevant trends, and tips on purchasing and selling a waterfront property, this is the definitive guide to navigating the dynamic market.
Inside the report:
• Year-over-year data across 16 communities and 12 counties
• Active waterfront listings
• Shoreline facts and figures
• Executive summary from CMO Andrea Savage
Plus, this year’s Futurecast Forum recap video is now available, allowing you to keep up with the latest trends, news, and expert predictions on the real estate market. This annual event brings together the top minds in luxury real estate to discuss what’s shaping our market and how you can stay ahead of the curve.
futurecastforum.com
Dean Jones President and CEO
The Little Brand with a Big Heart
ELEVATED ESSENTIALS, A LOYAL FOLLOWING, AND THE STORY BEHIND LITTLE BIPSY’S RISE
What began as a search for stylish, high-quality basics for her baby boy quickly turned into something much bigger. When Brittani Little couldn’t find children’s clothing that felt both timeless and practical, she decided to create it herself—unintentionally laying the foundation for a brand that would soon capture the hearts of parents across the country. Today, Little Bipsy is a beloved lifestyle brand known for its soft, neutral-toned essentials that blend elevated style with everyday wearability.
Fueled by authenticity and a deep love for family, Brittani has grown her once-homegrown venture into a nationally recognized name—all while raising three kids and staying true to her Pacific Northwest roots.
Kirkland Lifestyle caught up with Brittani to talk about her journey from new mom to founder, the story behind Little Bipsy, and what’s next for the brand.
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO LAUNCH LITTLE BIPSY, AND CAN YOU SHARE A BIT ABOUT HOW THE BRAND BEGAN?
The name Little Bipsy came from a heartfelt nickname my late grandfather gave me, one that stuck and now carries so much meaning. The idea for LB really began in 2015, shortly after my son Conor was born. I had just stepped away from a 12-year dental career and started a small at-home hobby called “Conor’s Closet,” where I sold his gently used and unworn clothes on Instagram. Thanks to a clean, modern aesthetic, that little hobby quickly gained traction and sparked an unexpected business journey.
Throughout the early stages of motherhood, I was searching for a style that seemed to not exist and that’s when I took the leap of faith to create it—everyday elevated pieces, easy to mix and match, soft enough for all-day comfort.
In 2017, Little Bipsy officially launched with our Classic Romper, followed by our signature pullover and jogger, our top selling styles that gained organic love for their buttery soft materials and quality that truly lasts.
ARTICLE BY TAYLOR ROBINSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LIFE N LIGHT
Now, years later, we’re proud to keep growing while staying true to what we’ve believed in from the beginning: quality, authenticity, and heart.
IN WHAT WAYS DID BECOMING A MOM INFLUENCE THE TYPES OF CLOTHING YOU SET OUT TO CREATE?
When I became a mom, I quickly realized how hard it was to find baby clothes that felt like us, something simple, modern, and actually practical. I wanted pieces that were soft, easy to mix and match, and could hold up to everyday life. That’s really where Little Bipsy started… just wanting better options for my own little guy. And now, here we are!
AS LITTLE BIPSY HAS GROWN INTO A NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED BRAND, WHAT MOMENTS HAVE FELT MOST MEANINGFUL TO YOU ALONG THE WAY?
So many moments have been deeply meaningful, but a few stand out. Watching my son Conor take suitcases full of Little Bipsy clothing on his mission trip to share with families in need was incredibly full-circle and emotional. Connecting face-to-face with our community at our warehouse sales, which draw thousands, has shown just how much love and support stands behind the brand.
We’ve been humbled by organic celebrity shoutouts, and it’s always special to see our clothes worn during our customers’ most treasured milestones—first steps, birthdays, first days of school. Knowing we’re part of those memories means everything.
We’ve also been honored to give back in meaningful ways, partnering with over 150 organizations worldwide. Being featured in USA Today and receiving the Giveback Award from Providence Hospital and The Puget Sound Business Journal were proud moments. One of the most special initiatives has been launching our Newborn Boxes—every baby born at Providence Hospital receives a gift box with an LB outfit and a handwritten note from our team to support their journey into parenthood. Through it all, the most meaningful part has been seeing this brand grow into something far bigger than just clothing.
CONTINUED >
“We’re proud to keep growing while staying true to what we’ve believed in from the beginning: quality, authenticity, and heart.”
“I was searching for a style that seemed to not exist and that’s when I took the leap of faith to create it—everyday elevated pieces, easy to mix and match, soft enough for all-day comfort.”
YOUR NEW FALL COLLECTION ARRIVES JUST IN TIME FOR BACK-TO-SCHOOL—WHAT ARE A FEW STANDOUT PIECES PARENTS SHOULD HAVE ON THEIR RADAR?
Fall/Winter is hands down my favorite season to design. Being from the PNW, we live in layers, and I love creating pieces that mix and match with ease. This season, we’re leaning into our tried-andtrue styles with updated colorways, some returning favorites, and our signature soft, durable materials. I’m especially excited about our newly designed camo, it’s a fresh take on a classic LB print. You’ll also see flannels, vests making a comeback, and lots of simple layering pieces to get you through the season.
WHERE CAN OUR READERS SHOP THE NEW COLLECTION OR STAY CONNECTED WITH LITTLE BIPSY AS THE BRAND CONTINUES TO GROW?
You can shop Little Bipsy online anytime at littlebipsy.com or visit us in person at our flagship store in downtown Edmonds, WA. To stay connected, follow us on Instagram @little_bipsy.
Balancing Career and Motherhood
ARTICLE BY CAITLIN AGNEW
Susan George is a creative entrepreneur, singer/songwriter, and mother of two. She’s been singing professionally since the age of 14, in 2017 she became a mother, and in 2020 she launched Mediary Marketing, a social media marketing agency that covers everything from content creation, influencer marketing campaigns and e-commerce/social commerce.
Susan’s goal is to show the good and hard parts of pursuing big dreams while balancing family life, and to encourage women to do the same. “Especially right now, we need women speaking up, supporting each other’s businesses, being brave and taking up space. There is so much power in that and anything I can do to help amplify those voices that I feel need to be heard, I’m happy to do it,” says Susan.
“DON’T BELIEVE THE MYTH THAT “YOU CAN DO IT ALL”. FIND YOURSELF A HELPFUL, ACTIVE, PARTNER OR A FANTASTIC NANNY.”
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO START YOUR BUSINESS?
I never thought I would be a business owner outside of managing my music career but once covid hit, I started the agency almost by accident. After diving into personal branding to promote my music, I learned a ton about utilizing social media to market myself outside of Seattle. I honestly didn’t have much of a vision at first besides making some side money, but it’s evolved into wanting to be the go-to agency for creators and brands and utilize our growth to give them more opportunities. Music is still woven into the fabric of what I do, and I love testing out various content strategies on my personal social channels, then using what works well for clients too.
HAVE YOUR BUSINESS GOALS CHANGED SINCE BECOMING A MOTHER?
My goals haven’t changed, but the way in which I go after them has changed dramatically. Now success means having the financial and time freedom to show up for my kids the way I want and pursue what is life-giving to me. That definition continues to change as I get older and I think it’s healthy to re-evaluate that in different life stages, as well as give yourself permission to change your mind.
ANY ADVICE FOR MOMS WHO WANT TO START A BUSINESS?
Don’t put a time limit on yourself. There’s no right or wrong. Breaking priorities down into “seasons” has helped me a lot. Don’t believe the myth that “you can do it all”. Find yourself a helpful, active, partner or a fantastic nanny.
For more information check out mediarymarketing.com or on Instagram @susangofficial and @mediarymarketing
Susan's Family
photography by Sunny Martini
S U N NY
It’s summertime and the livin’ is easy… the end of school and the onset of warmer, drier weather provide opportunity and motivation to get outside for some fun. There’s no shortage of choices in an area as beautiful and temperate as ours. Kirkland Lifestyle connected with four locals to learn about their favorite things to do in the summer months.
DAYTRADITIONS
ARTICLE BY BREE O’BRIEN | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF INTERVIEWEES
The Av Family Yuka
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SUMMER TRADITION?
Going on vacation with family and friends, enjoying the beautiful weather around our state. Our tradition is not so much a place, but the people. We were fortunate to meet some amazing families at our preschool, and over the years the playdates grew into getaways. It’s been fun to watch the kids grow up together. My son’s birthday is in the summer, and we often end up celebrating on one of the trips. This year, we will camp on the peninsula, and spend time on Lake Chelan.
HOW DID THIS TRADITION START?
This tradition started about four years ago (after COVID). When it started, everyone’s kids were fairly young and these days they are a little more independent, so our destinations and activities have evolved over time, but the tradition of coming together has stayed the same.
WHAT MAKES THIS TRADITION SPECIAL FOR YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS?
With so much going on during the school year, it can be challenging to find time to get together, so it’s that much more special when we do. It takes some planning and flexibility, but between work schedules and summer tournaments, we make it happen!
Inner tubing fun with friends
Connor O’Brien
WHAT IS ONE OF YOUR FAVORITE SUMMER TRADITIONS?
I have a lot of soccer tournaments in the summer, and my team always competes in the Crossfire Select Cup at 60 Acres. Usually my team plays four or five games over the weekend, and my whole family comes to cheer us on and there are food trucks and coffee stands set up at the field.
HOW DID THIS TRADITION START, AND HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN DOING THIS TRADITION?
I started playing on my current Crossfire team five years ago, so it’s been five years of competing in the Crossfire Select Cup and other tournaments.
WHAT MAKES THIS TRADITION SPECIAL FOR YOU?
Every time we have a double header during a tournament, my team and I hang out together and eat and just chill out - either at the field or at a park or restaurant if there’s enough time. It’s fun to see the other teams play at the tournament too and players that I know on other teams.
The Mitchell Family Jillian
WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE
SUMMER TRADITIONS?
We love downtown Kirkland in the summer. My family will ride bikes down to Peter Kirk pool and splash around together and then stand in line at the ice cream truck in our swimsuits. There is something so sweet about the whole experience. That being said, our favorite family summer tradition is to see somewhere new in the Pacific Northwest. We’ve done the North Cascades, the Olympic National Rainforest and the islands. This year we are heading down to Oyhut on the Washington Coast.
WHAT INSPIRED THIS TRADITION?
We love adventure and trying new things. My husband and I have always loved traveling, but we wanted to make sure our kids were familiar with all the beauty closer to home. Summer is the best time to see the PNW!
WHAT MAKES THIS TRADITION SPECIAL FOR YOUR FAMILY?
These trips are usually road trips that include less than fancy accommodations. So the whole family is experiencing something new and a bit rugged together. There are usually tears at some point, and now some teenage moodiness, but it’s always a fun time overall.
Matty, Fletcher, and Hazel Mitchell enjoying the outdoors
The Roe and Gray Families Cheryl Roe
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SUMMER TRADITION?
One favorite is paddleboarding, mostly on Lake Washington at Juanita Beach. We always liked to spend time at the beach with our children and now our grandchildren. Paddleboarding was an easy way to extend the beach experience to include time not just in but on the water. As our daughter Brandi and son-in-law Bill’s family grew and with it our love for SUP and beach time, the two eldest grandkids Blair and Brooklyn received junior SUPs in 2022. Our grandson Bowen who’s five loves the water but prefers to ride with his Mom or Dad.
HOW DID THIS TRADITION START?
Almost a decade ago when our oldest granddaughter was a toddler and just learning to swim. Blair started at three and Brooklyn at about the same age.
WHAT MAKES THIS TRADITION SPECIAL FOR YOUR FAMILY?
It’s an activity we can all participate in that’s fun and safe. Especially at Juanita Beach Park, located in a cove. Plus there are other options around to keep everyone engaged - from walking the pier, picnicking, volleyball, playing or just hanging out.
Cheryl heading out on the lake
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AUGUST 2025
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
AUGUST 1ST
Seahawks Training Camp
Virginia Mason Athletic Center | 1:00 PM
Hawks fans, it’s go time! Seahawks Training Camp returns now through August 12, 2025, at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center in Renton. With 10 free public practices, fans can catch thrilling drills, positional battles, and rising stars. Park at The Landing, hop on the shuttle, and get a front-row view as the team gears up for its 50th season!
AUGUST 1ST
Juanita Friday Market is back for its 19th season!
Juanita Beach Park | 3:00 PM
Join the fun every Friday from 3–7 PM at Juanita Beach Park, June 6 through September. Shop fresh produce, flowers, artisan goods, and hot eats while enjoying live music and family fun. Rain or shine, it’s the perfect way to support local and savor summer in Kirkland!
AUGUST 9TH
2025 Fred Hutch Obliteride
University of Washington | 6:30 AM Ride. Walk. Cure Cancer. Obliteride returns August 9, 2025, uniting thousands to ride, run, or walk for lifesaving cancer research at Fred Hutch. Choose your challenge—bike 25, 50, or 100 miles or join the 5K. Start at UW, end at Gas Works Park with food, music, and big celebration vibes. 100% of fundraising fuels the fight. Register now at obliteride.org
AUGUST 9TH
Celebrate Woodinville
Festival: Sip, Savor, Celebrate!
Woodinville, WA | 11:00 AM
Celebrate Woodinville Festival lights up August 9 with a full day of com munity fun! Start with pancakes at Fire Station 31, catch the lively parade down 175th, and don’t miss the ador able Basset Bash in DeYoung Park. Then head to Wilmot Gateway Park for live music, food vendors, a beverage garden, family activities, local artists, and the Woodinville Farmers Market.
AUGUST 13TH
Kirkland International Night Market
Houghton Park and Play | 4:00 PM
Kirkland International Night Market ig nites Houghton Park & Play on Wednes day, August 13, 2025, from 4–8 perience a vibrant celebration of global culture featuring diverse food vendors, live performances, artisan crafts, and family-friendly fun—all free and open to the public. Join neighbors and friends for an unforgettable evening of com munity, cuisine, and cultural connec tion in the heart of Kirkland!
AUGUST 21ST
Village Fun Days
The Village at Totem Lake | 11:30 AM
Village Fun Days returns this sum mer at The Village at Totem Lake—ev ery Thursday, July 10–August 11:30 AM to 1 PM on the green near Cinemark. Dive into themed family fun with comedy, circus arts, wizard work shops, science shows, dance parties & more. Grab a bite at Joe’s Burgers and browse Snapdoodle Toys between acts. Completely free, sponsored by Verizon
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