Sonoran Foothills, AZ May 2024

LIFE + CULTURE

WE’VE GOT A NEW LOOK; EVERYTHING YOU LOVE AND MORE!

ARTS + CULTURE

SPRING DIY PROJECTS & RECIPES

BEAUTY

LOCAL GALS AND LOTS OF FLOWERS FOR SPRING

May’s Lifestyle Letter

Celebrating Women in Our Community

As we embark on this exciting journey, we're thrilled to unveil our new magazine name: Sonoran Foothills Lifestyle. Formerly known as Anthem City Lifestyle, our magazine now encompasses a broader spectrum, reflecting the vibrant tapestry of communities within the Sonoran Foothills region, including Anthem, Desert Hills, Cave Creek, Carefree, New River, and Norterra.

"I love any opportunity to recognize the women in my life who just make life more rich and beautiful. I am a son, husband, father, and grandfather to the important women in my life. Our wives, mothers, daughters, and granddaughters are some of the most influential women in our lives.

And of course, with Mother’s Day this month, all eyes are on moms… But it’s not just the biological mothers but the mother figures in our lives who have made an indelible impact on us. It’s the family members, teachers, friends, and neighbors doing awesome things in our communities, pouring into our lives - making themselves unforgettable and irreplaceable.

In the quiet corners of my memories, there exists a luminous figure—the embodiment of love, humility, and unwavering faith. My maternal grandmother, with her silver hair and gentle green eyes, left an indelible mark on my soul. She was a weaver of stories, her voice a soothing balm for life’s bruises. Her gentle, soft hands held mine as she whispered tales of resilience, sacrifice, and unwavering hope. She taught me that strength wasn’t measured in muscle but in the quiet endurance of the heart.

While it’s always important to shop local and support our area businesses, this month is the perfect time to patronize businesses owned by women in our communities. That’s one of my favorite parts of this role - connecting with and championing the best of the best when it comes to Sonoran Foothills women.

They are movers and shakers, builders and makers. They are both seen and unseen. Their silent service blesses those who are under their care. Their attention to detail shows us something about beauty that can’t be seen or understood any other way.

I hope you’ll take a few minutes to send a text, make a phone call, or get your kids on a video call with the women in your life who deserve recognition. It only takes a minute to brighten someone’s day and remind them how much you love them.

Happy Mother’s Day!

MEL FONSECA, PUBLISHER

@SONORANFOOTHILLSLIFESTYLE

May 2024

PUBLISHER

Mel Fonseca | mel.fonseca@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Alexandra James | alexandra.james@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Ashley Hathaway

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

AD DESIGNER Whitney Lockhart

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen

DENTAL IMPLANTs WITH

NEW PATIENT SPECIAL

business monthly

Merrill Gardens at Anthem

Welcome to Merrill Gardens, where community meets individuality. Our family-owned company is dedicated to providing high-quality independent senior living, assisted living, and memory care services tailored to your unique needs. At Merrill Gardens, we understand the importance of connection and freedom, allowing you to truly be yourself. Join our vibrant community and experience the comfort and support of a place where you can thrive.

Scan to read more

The Salt Spa Az

Welcome to Salt Spa, where tranquility and rejuvenation await you. Our serene sanctuary offers a range of holistic treatments designed to meet your individual needs. Whether you seek relaxation, detoxification, or relief from respiratory ailments, our expert staff will guide you on a journey to wellness. Immerse yourself in the healing properties of salt therapy and experience the freedom to unwind and revitalize. Discover the harmony of mind, body, and spirit at Salt Spa.

Tatum Insurance

Welcome to Tatum Insurance, where protection meets personalization. As a family-owned company, we understand the importance of tailored coverage that meets your unique needs. Whether you're safeguarding your home, vehicles, or business, our dedicated team is here to provide you with quality insurance solutions. With Tatum Insurance, you'll experience the freedom to live confidently, knowing you have the right coverage in place. Trust in our expertise and commitment to keeping you and your assets protected.

Scan to read more

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

INDOOR PLANT GUIDE

Investing in indoor plants can not only spruce up your living space, but also bring numerous health and well-being benefits

SNAKE PLANT:

The Snake Plant is for anyone from a green thumb to a black thumb because anyone can grow it. These hardy plants can adapt to any environment and can live in both high light and low light.

HOPE PEPEROMIA:

The Hope Peperomia likes medium to bright direct sunlight. It does well as a tabletop plant or a hanging plant. Watering is only needed one time a month regardless of plant size.

Bringing the outdoors in with the use of house plants is a great way to add color and dimension to your space. We sat down with Jesse Nelson at Family Tree Nursery, based in Kansas, and discussed the benefits of incorporating plant life into your home. “There are plenty of studies on the health benefits of plants, and the evidence suggests that being around plants and caring for plant life increases overall wellness,” explains Nelson. “Anytime you bring a plant into a home or work environment, it’s going to make you feel better. It is going to beautify the space in a way that art cannot, and they also have the added benefit of  purifying the air.” There are a wide variety of indoor plants that work for any space and light situation that you may have. Regardless if you have a green thumb or a black thumb, there are plant varieties that fit your lifestyle. Here are a few of our favorite indoor plants to incorporate into your home.

ZZ PLANT:

The ZZ plant, which its formal name is Zamioculas Zamiifolia, is a very easy plant to care for. They like anything from low light to bright light. These plants are hard to kill and can go a long time without being watered.

CREATIVE LEADERSHIP and Community

MEET THE LADIES OF THE SONORAN FOOTHILLS

ARTICLE

BY SARAH GREENE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ASHLEY HATHAWAY

Anthem Pickleball Gals

Sawana Grimmett Founder of Salt Spa Wellness Collaborative

There is no better time to unveil our new name, Sonoran Foothills Lifestyle, while simultaneously honoring the extraordinary women whose contributions enrich our community in myriad way as the Ladies issue. What follows is a small collection of the extraordinary women of our area.

"Allie Mathews and Erica Webb's Tribe Hair Salon is more than just a salon; it's a sanctuary where creativity and self-expression flourish," shares one satisfied client, echoing the sentiments of many in our community. Their dedication to personalized service and impeccable styling sets a high standard, reflecting the vibrant energy of Sonoran Foothills living.

Sawana Grimmett's entrepreneurial journey is a testament to community. She has recently founded the Salt Spa Wellness Collective which is a cooperative working space for various wellness and beauty practitioners. "As a mother of three and an owner of three businesses, time management is key," shares Grimmett, whose dedication to fostering a positive and thriving environment reflects the spirit of empowerment that defines life in the Sonoran Foothills.

In the realm of sports and recreation, the Anthem Ladies Pickleball Club fosters camaraderie and support among women from all walks of life. "Pickleball has been a game-changer for me," shares one enthusiastic member. "It's not just about the sport; it's about the connections we make and the sense of community we share."

Whether as entrepreneurs, artists, mothers, or community builders, their strength, creativity, and compassion enrich our lives and shape the fabric of our diverse and dynamic community

DIY VANILLA ORANGE SUGAR SCRUB

Create your own DIY sugar scrub for a perfect gift for a special person in your life.

To make one 8 ounce mason jar of vanilla orange sugar scrub, you need:

• 1/4 cup of coconut oil

• 3/4 cup of sugar

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

• 10 drops of orange essential oil

Soften the coconut oil in the microwave for a few seconds. Next add the vanilla extract and the orange essential oil. Then, stir in the sugar, a little at a time. Print off a fun label or attach a ribbon to the jar, and your gift is ready. Enjoy!

Hive Interiors

ARTICLE BY ALEXANDRA JAMES | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ASHLEY HATHAWAY

LAUREN MILLER IS BLOSSOMING ON THE JOURNEY OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN CAREFREE.

Hive Interiors founder Lauren Miller.

“

“Everything inside of Hive Interiors is carefully thought of and curated to fit the aesthetic of my brand.”

Nestled in the heart of Carefree, Arizona, amidst the stunning desert landscapes, lies a haven of beauty and inspiration – Hive Interiors. Owned and operated by the visionary Lauren Miller, Hive Interiors is more than just a boutique; it's a sanctuary for those seeking exquisite florals and unique home décor.

As our cover feature for this special ladies' issue, Lauren shares the journey behind Hive Interiors, which was inspired by her love for flowers and beautiful things. "I wanted a one-stop shop where you could buy a host gift, fresh flowers, or something special for yourself," Lauren explains. Her passion for curating exceptional pieces is evident in every corner of Hive Interiors, where carefully selected items adorn the shelves, each reflecting the aesthetic of her brand.

"Everything inside of Hive Interiors is carefully thought of and curated to fit the aesthetic of my brand," Lauren emphasizes. "If I don’t love it, I will not sell it." This dedication to quality and uniqueness sets Hive Interiors apart, offering clientele an unparalleled shopping experience.

From holiday flower capsules to trend-setting designs, Lauren draws inspiration from her surroundings and personal mood. "I always go off of the 'mood' I'm in," she shares. "It all depends on how I’m feeling." This personalized approach ensures that every creation from Hive Interiors is infused with authenticity and creativity.

As a new business owner, Lauren has learned invaluable lessons about perseverance and resilience. "There is no such thing as emotions in business," she affirms. "You have to figure out a way regardless of how you feel." Embracing discomfort and pushing boundaries have been key to her success, along with building a strong online presence and engaging with the local community.

Connect with Hive Interior

To stay connected with Hive Interiors and explore upcoming events, promotions, and product launches, follow them on TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram @HIVEAZ. For inquiries and pre-orders, visit their website at hiveinteriordesign.net . Join Lauren in celebrating beauty, creativity, and community at Hive Interiors – where every visit is a celebration of life’s exquisite moments.

Hive Interiors offers experiences that are truly unique, from hand-tied flower wraps at the Carefree Farmers Market to floral workshops and luxury florals exclusively available in-store. Lauren's commitment to sustainability is evident in every aspect of her business, from sourcing organically grown flowers to minimizing environmental impact in her designs.

"My goal for Hive is to continue to serve the community with elevated floral designs and grow my lifestyle boutique," Lauren shares. "I love holidays and what they signify, and my hope is to inspire you to celebrate with beautiful things."

Beyond business aspirations, Lauren cherishes the balance between motherhood and entrepreneurship. "Being a mom and business owner bear similar weight – they both take hard work, time management, the ability to multitask, and the will to survive," she reflects.

In celebration of Mother's Day, Hive Interiors is hosting a bouquet and bruschetta workshop on May 11th. "Moms deserve to be celebrated!" Lauren exclaims. The workshop promises a delightful experience where participants can create floral arrangements and learn to use edible flowers on canapés, guided by Chef Sean from Black Mountain Cafe.

As Lauren continues to nurture her dream of multiple Hive Interiors locations and sustainable practices, her journey serves as an inspiration to women everywhere. Through dedication, passion, and unwavering belief, she exemplifies the spirit of entrepreneurship and the power of following one's dreams.

BLOO M I NG IN

THE DESERT

ARTICLE BY ALEXANDRA JAMES | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ASHLEY HATHAWAY

SHOOT IN BLOOM:

Step into the enchanting world of Hive Interiors as Alexandra James, Ashley Hathaway, and Lauren Miller converge amidst the vibrant wildflowers of Papago Park. This picturesque location, with its rich history and stunning vistas, sets the stage for a truly captivating photo shoot.

NATURE’S CANVAS:

Lauren Miller paints with flowers; infusing each bouquet with her vivacious energy and carefree spirit.

FLOWER TIP: For longer-lasting arrangements, change the water every two days and trim the stems at an angle to prevent bacteria buildup.

ARTIST’S PALETTE | BEAUTY

INSPIRATIONS:

Spring in the desert is the ultimate inspiration. The landscape has come alive and there is a creativity in the air. This is a great time to bring nature inside and adorn your space with flowers!

FLOWER TIP: Experiment with different textures and colors to create visually dynamic floral arrangements that complement your space.

CONTINUED >

WILDFLOWER SEASON:

Amidst Arizona’s early wildflower season can be found vibrant blooms all over the valley such as the bright yellow blossoms of the Brittlebush seen here.

FLOWER TIP: Incorporate seasonal blooms and foliage for an authentic touch that captures the essence of the outdoors.

ARTIST’S PALETTE

GOLDEN HOUR GLOW:

Bathed in the golden light of sunset, Lauren Miller radiates warmth and elegance, embodying the spirit of Hive Interiors amidst the breathtaking landscape of Papago Park.

FLOWER TIP: Don’t be afraid to mix different flower varieties and sizes to create a visually striking arrangement that commands attention.

ARTICLE BY LEANN PARKER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

Spring Floral Bowl

BRING THE BRIGHTNESS AND FRESHNESS OF SPRING INDOORS BY CREATING YOUR OWN FLORAL BOWL ARRANGEMENT.

Spring, come quickly! And if not, bring spring indoors anyway. Flowers brighten any room, any day of the year. No need to wait for a special occasion or holiday – give yourself permission to brighten everyday life with a bowl full of flowers. Place florals in an entryway, kitchen, living room space or even bathroom. Florals make any room come alive with pops of color and the smells of spring that’s just about ready to burst outside.

Consider this your personal invitation to play with flowers by creating your very own Floral Bowl Arrangement. Use any cereal bowl in the kitchen and a bundle of store bought flowers. For extra texture and depth, look for small spring branches and ornamental grasses found in your yard to pop into the arrangement, like I did here. Then, place your floral bowl in a place where you need that burst of joy most. Enjoy!

Supplies:

• 1 bundle of flowers (about 24 stems) + floral food packet

• spring branches & ornamental grasses found in your yard (optional)

• 6” bowl (cereal bowl size)

• floral shears (or garden clippers, kitchen shears, even craft scissors in a pinch)

• 12” square cut chicken wire

• wire cutters

• garden gloves to protect your hands when forming chicken wire

• clear floral tape (scotch tape will also do)

• lazy susan to easily move your arrangement and work from all sides (optional)

Preparation & Assembly:

• First prepare the mechanics. The mechanics are the non-floral elements used to assemble a floral arrangement. These materials will act as a grid in which the flowers are built into to hold each stem in its place.

• Wearing garden gloves, cut chicken wire roughly into a 12” square. Loosely form the chicken wire into a ball and place inside the bowl.

• Use clear floral tape to make an X shape over the top of the bowl to hold the chicken wire securely into place. This will also give extra support when adding the floral elements later.

• Fill the bowl with water and mix in a flower food packet, if your flowers came with one.

• Begin to arrange floral elements into the bowl. As a general rule, you will want to start with the strongest, thickest stems and end with the most delicate stems. Here, I began with branches, then the largest base flowers followed by taller focal flowers, and finally delicate stems, grasses and wispy greens.

Tip:

Stuck with broken, leftover blooms from creating your floral bowl arrangements? Don’t discard those flowers just yet! Simply arrange leftover blooms and a few ornamental grasses onto a cake to elevate any tablescape. Even though the blooms are arranged out of water, they will look fresh for hours (especially when using roses and carnations). Enjoy!

APRIL 30TH

Lola Kirke

2303 E Indian School Road, Phoenix, AZ, 85015, US | 8:00 PM

Catch Lola Kirke live at The Rebel Lounge in Phoenix on April 30th at 8:00 PM. Known for her captivating performances, Lola brings her unique style to the stage for an unforgettable night of music. With a venue capacity of 200, this intimate setting promises an up-close and personal experience. Don't miss out on this exceptional event!

MAY 5TH

The Sahnas Brothers

15279 N Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85254 | 5:30 PM

Spring sessions at the Scottsdale Quarter. Sahnas Brothers, renowned for their captivating blend of Mediterranean and Latin sounds. Special guest Suzanne Lansford will also grace the stage, adding her soulful melodies to the mix. Seating is limited, so secure your tickets now at www.ticketmaster.com/event/19005EF1B3141DFD. Don't miss this opportunity to enjoy live music in the heart of Scottsdale at ASU Kerr, located at 6110 N. Scottsdale Rd., Scottsdale, AZ 85253.

MAY 13TH

Ryan Montbleau

4725 E. Mayo Blvd. Phoenix, AZ 85050 | 7:00 PM

Immerse yourself in the soulful sounds of singer-songwriter Ryan Montbleau at our upcoming event. Don't miss this enchanting performance filled with unforgettable melodies and heartfelt lyrics!

Lowell Observatory

1400 W. Mars Hill Road, Flagstaff | 6:00 PM

Delve into the celestial wonders of Flagstaff, Arizona, renowned for its exceptionally dark skies as the world’s inaugural International Dark Sky City. Wander beneath a canopy of stars visible from any corner of the city, or venture to Mars Hill and the historic Lowell Observatory, where Pluto was first spotted in 1930. Explore the cosmos through the lens of the venerable Clark refractor, constructed in 1896, during enlightening guided tours.

MAY

Phoenix Farmers’ Market

720 N. Fifth St., Phoenix | 7:30 AM

For nearly two decades, the Downtown Phoenix Farmers Market has been a bustling hub, bringing fresh produce and artisanal goods to the heart of the city. This Saturday morning market supports local farmers and small businesses, offering a chance to connect with growers, enjoy local coffee, and sample delectable treats from food trucks.

MAY 31ST

Carefree Farmers’ Market

7 Sundial Cir, Carefree, AZ 85377 | 8:00 AM

Every Friday, the Carefree Farmers Market transforms into a vibrant gathering spot, showcasing the best of local produce and artisanal goods. Stroll through the market to discover fresh fruits and vegetables, handcrafted items, and delicious treats from passionate vendors. Enjoy the lively atmosphere, chat with growers, and savor the community spirit.

HANDMADE BREAKING BREAD

This recipe is quick and easy to make with just a few simple steps. It tastes great on its own, but dipping it in olive oil infused with fresh herbs adds an extra level of flavor.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 ¾ cups warm water

• 2 ½ teaspoons sugar

• 1 package active dry yeast

• 4 cups flour

• 2 teaspoons salt

• 4 tablespoons olive oil

Optional:

• Fresh rosemary

• Coarse sea salt

• Fresh pressed garlic

INSTRUCTIONS:

Use a stand mixer with a fitted dough hook, and stir together the water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and stir again. Set mixture aside for 5 minutes. Mixture should be foamy. Next, add the flour and salt and mix on low until a shaggy dough forms. Increase speed and mix for an additional 4-5 minutes. Brush a large bowl with olive oil. Transfer the dough to the bowl and cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp towel. Set aside for about 1 to 1 ½ hours until the dough has doubled in size.

Brush a 9x13-inch baking dish with 2 tablespoons of oil. Uncover the dough and rub hands with olive oil. Slide your hands under the dough and fold it onto itself. Continue to work your way around the edge of the bowl, folding the dough onto itself until there is a ball that you can lift from the bowl. Place the dough in the prepared pan and press the dough to the edges. Cover the pan with plastic wrap or a damp towel and set aside to rise for about 45 minutes until the dough has doubled in size.

Preheat the oven to 425°F. Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the dough. Rub your hands with olive oil and use your fingers to make indentions on the surface of the dough. Sprinkle it with salt and rosemary and any desired toppings. Bake for 20-30 minutes or until golden brown.