ARTS + CULTURE THRONE OF GRACE: DIVE INTO THE WORLD OF FAITH-BASED FASHION.
DIY ART IDEAS, DRINK CONCEPTS, AND MORE! Bringing the Style this month!
BEAUTY UNIQUE HAIRSTYLE TIPS THAT WILL TURN HEADS!
Jump Into Some Style!
Dear Readers,
Welcome to our September style issue of Sonoran Foothills City Lifestyle! As the seasons shift, so does our focus towards the captivating world of style. This is one of my favorite issues because it allows us to explore and celebrate the diverse expressions of style that enrich our lives in so many ways.
Style is not confined to the latest trends; it’s about showcasing your personality and defining your own signature look. It’s a dynamic form of self-expression that is as diverse as our community. This month, we dive deeper into how style transcends fashion, communicating who we are and what’s important to us.
We are excited to feature Phoenix designer Tony James and his innovative collection, "Throne of Grace." Recently showcased at Phoenix Fashion Week, Tony’s work masterfully blends casual streetwear with faith-based symbolism. His unique fusion of spirituality and modern aesthetics pushes the envelope, demonstrating how style can be an artful form of expression. Our talented in-house photographer, Ashley Hathaway, captured Tony’s collection against the vibrant backdrop of downtown Phoenix, offering an exclusive look at this extraordinary fashion line.
As you explore this issue, remember that style is your personal canvas—an ever-evolving reflection of who you are. Embrace it, play with it, and let it truly reflect your journey.
Thank you for joining us in celebrating the many facets of style this month!
Warm regards,
MEL FONSECA, PUBLISHER
@SONORANFOOTHILLSLIFESTYLE
September 2024
PUBLISHER
Mel Fonseca | mel.fonseca@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Alexandra James | alexandra.james@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Ashley Hathaway
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Ashley Hathaway
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen
inside the issue
Textured Art
Get
Throne of Grace: Weaving Faith into Fashion
Dive
Eat Pretty: Healthy Hair, Skin, Nails, and Eyes
Explore
into Ashley’s article for an indepth exploration of this trailblazing fashion line.
city scene
1: The 40-year anniversary celebration of Carefree kicked off at the new local bar, Gears. 2: Vibrant atmosphere and excitement at a Kiki Rae’s luau with games, live music, and dancing! 3: Local artist Matthew Sabey performs at Athens on Easy Street. 4: Grand opening celebration for Pearle Vision in Anthem. 5: The buckle winners were celebrated at the Buffalo Chip. 6: Drawing event at the Holland Community Center. Check out their events calendar! 7: A festive, well-attended event at Stagecoach Village in Cave Creek. Check the upcoming calendar.
business monthly
Desert King Windows
Desert King Windows offers top-notch window solutions, prioritizing quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. With a commitment to excellence, they provide a range of energy-efficient and stylish windows tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. Whether for residential or commercial projects, Desert King Windows ensures superior craftsmanship and durability, enhancing the beauty and functionality of any space. Trust Desert King Windows for reliable, high-quality window solutions that stand the test of time.
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Saguaro Valley Health
Concierge medicine offers a modern approach to healthcare, emphasizing personalized care, accessibility, and comprehensive health management. This innovative model caters to busy professionals and individuals who value a strong doctor-patient relationship, providing a proactive, patient-centered experience. With services tailored to meet unique needs, concierge medicine ensures a higher standard of care, enhancing overall health and well-being by fostering unparalleled access to medical expertise and a more intimate healthcare journey.
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Reliance Heating and Air Conditioning
Reliance Heating and Air Conditioning delivers exceptional HVAC services, focusing on reliability, efficiency, and customer satisfaction. Specializing in both residential and commercial projects, they provide tailored heating and cooling solutions to meet individual needs. With a commitment to superior service and energy-efficient systems, Reliance ensures optimal comfort and indoor air quality. Trust Reliance Heating and Air Conditioning for dependable, high-quality HVAC solutions that keep your environment comfortable year-round.
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Better Vision Eyecare
Better Vision Eye Care offers exceptional eye care services, emphasizing personalized attention, advanced technology, and patient satisfaction. Specializing in comprehensive eye exams, corrective lenses, and eye health management, they provide tailored solutions to meet each patient’s unique needs. With a commitment to superior care and the latest in vision technology, Better Vision Eye Care ensures optimal eye health and clarity. Trust Better Vision Eye Care for dependable, high-quality vision solutions.
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RENCO Roofing
RENCO Roofing delivers top tier roofing services, emphasizing quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction. Specializing in both residential and commercial projects, they provide tailored solutions to meet the unique needs of each client. With a commitment to superior craftsmanship and durable materials, RENCO Roofing ensures lasting protection and aesthetic appeal for your property. Trust RENCO Roofing for dependable, high-quality roofing solutions that stand the test of time.
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hacks HAIR
Braids are a great way to add style and uniqueness to your hair style rotation and have been a staple in hair styles dating back to the 3500 B. C. This historical hairstyle is here to stay, so we wanted to share some go-to impressive looks. Follow our stepby-step guide of braids for all of your braid needs.
Braids to Keep You Chic All Year Long
ARTICLE BY ABBI SULASKI
PHOTOGRAPHY BY POPPY & CO. BY
KELSEY HUFFER
simpleupdo
Part the hair down the center or side part, if preferred. Create braid(s) on the side of the head and secure with elastic. Twist the hair with braids into a simple bun, securing it with hair pins. Add an accessory for a classy touch.
Place a bandana on the forehead and tie it in the back. Create as many braids as desired in the back of the head, teasing the ends to avoid using elastics.
bandana braids
pull through braid with space buns
Part hair down the center. Create pull-through braids on each side of the head. Tie elastic at the end of the braids to create a ponytail at the nape of the neck. For extra volume in the buns, tease the hair in the ponytail before twisting it into a bun. Secure with hair pins and... Voilà!
Part the top half of the hair in two sections. Create fishtail braids (or braids of choice) and tie them together in the back of the hair. Add a fashion accessory around a ponytail for a little extra fun!
fishtail braids reverse
DIY ART textured
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
ROPE TEXTURE ART
Supplies needed:
• Window insulation strips
• Canvas
• Kilz Interior primer
• Staple gun
• Spray paint, color of choice
• Super glue, optional
Instructions:
Create the desired design using insulation strips. Simply peel off the sticky backing and attach to the canvas. Be sure to wrap each strip around the back and press firmly. Use a staple gun to secure strips to the back of the canvas. Add a dap of super glue to any curved areas that appear to loosen. Once your desired design is created, apply a thin coat of Kilz interior primer. Spray paint the entire canvas the color of choice that you would like. Allow to dry for a minimum of 24 hours.
This trend-forward DIY art piece adds texture and dimension to your walls and is easy enough for anyone to do regardless of artistic ability.
THRONE OF GRACE
Weaving Faith into Fashion
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY ASHLEY HATHAWAY
In the heart of Phoenix, Arizona, Tony James, the founder and designer behind Throne of Grace Clothing, has woven a narrative of faith and creative revival into every stitch of his brand. What began as a childhood fascination with clothes and an enduring connection to a rundown church in his Garfield neighborhood has blossomed into a burgeoning streetwear label with a purpose.
"Throne of Grace is about unapologetic streetwear for faithdriven visionaries," Tony explains with a passion that reflects his journey. For him, fashion isn't just about trends; it's a medium to express faith and community in a world often marred by division.
Tony's path to fashion wasn't a straight line. Despite early dreams of attending fashion school, setbacks led him through various careers, from the mortgage industry to a stint as a hairstylist. Each role offered insights but left him unfulfilled until a pivotal moment prompted a deeper soul-searching.
"It was a journey of rediscovering my purpose," Tony shares, recounting how a return to his childhood church and a newfound relationship with God reshaped his ambitions.
With this realization, Tony reimagined his approach to design. Inspired by Hebrews 4:16, which speaks of approaching God's throne of grace with confidence, he found the name and ethos for his brand. Throne of Grace was born not just to create stylish garments but to spread a message of love and inclusivity.
James recieveing "Emerging Designer of the Year."
The journey wasn't without challenges. As a faithbased brand in a predominantly secular industry, Tony faced skepticism and hurdles. But his resilience and dedication to his vision culminated in a defining moment at Phoenix Fashion Week, where Throne of Grace was crowned "2024 Emerging Designer of the Year."
"I didn't accept the award for myself," Tony reflects humbly. "It was a victory for our community and a testament to God's grace." The accolade fueled Tony's ambition to expand Throne of Grace further, making it accessible beyond Arizona and forging partnerships that align with the brand's values.
Today, Throne of Grace isn't just a clothing line; it's a beacon of positivity in a world often overshadowed by negativity. "We want to be part of the solution," Tony asserts. "To spread love and grace through every garment we create."
As Tony James continues to weave his faith into fabric, Throne of Grace Clothing stands not only as a testament to his journey but as a reminder of the transformative power of pursuing one's purpose with conviction. With each collection, Tony invites us to approach the throne of grace with confidence, embodying a spirit of resilience, inclusion, and hope.
Tony James
Tony James, a passionate fashion designer, discovered his true success in the fashion industry after embracing his faith. His designs are a reflection of his convictions and aim to convey God’s message of love and grace. From this purpose-driven mission, Throne of Grace Clothing was established, offering fashion-forward, faith-based apparel while fostering a community through genuine engagement.
In addition to his fashion career, Tony is a devoted husband and father of two children, son Jeo and daughter Christabel. He is deeply passionate about advocating for Arizona’s youth and is actively involved in supporting the young adult homeless population by providing resources and instilling hope in their lives.
James pictured in his home studio
EAT
ARTICLE BY HAYLEY HYER
KEEP YOUR PLATE IN STYLE WITH THESE FOODS THAT WILL HELP YOU LOOK AND FEEL GOOD
PUMPKIN
SWEET POTATOES CARROTS
BUTTERNUT SQUASH
Vitamin A is essential to protecting the corneas of our eyes. By taking care of your corneas, you can extend the health of your eyesight and reduce vision loss with age. An easy way to remember what to eat for healthy eyes is to look for orange foods. Carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, and butternut squash are all high in vitamin A.
EYES HEALTHY
SKIN HEALTHY
NUTS FLAX SEED
CHIA SEEDS FISH
Did you know that vitamin A is also imperative for skin health? So while you’re caring for your corneas, you’re also boosting your outer glow. If you want to kick it up a notch, be intentional about eating plenty of foods with omega-3 fatty acids to reduce acne and inflammation and help your skin produce its own collagen. For your healthy fats, go for flax seed, nuts, chia seeds, and fish.
INGREDIENTS
• 2 eggs
• Dash of flax milk
• Cumin
• Salt + pepper
• ½ sweet potato, cubed
• ¼ green onion, chopped
• ¼ cup spinach
• Handful of broccoli florets
SWEET POTATO SCRAMBLE
(for one)
• Ghee butter or avocado oil for cooking
TOPPING IDEAS
• Cooked salmon
• Hot sauce
• Chia seeds or flax seeds
• Fresh parsley
DIRECTIONS
1. Whisk together your eggs, milk, and spices.
2. Prepare a skillet over medium heat with your ghee butter or avocado oil. Cook the sweet potato, green onion, and broccoli for 5-8 minutes. Add the spinach and cook for 1 more minute.
3. Pour your egg mixture into the skillet and scramble together until the eggs are your desired texture, roughly 3 minutes.
4. Immediately add your cooked salmon, seeds, parsley, or hot sauce and enjoy while it’s still hot!
CONTINUED >
MIX IT UP
BROCCOLI SALMON EGGS SPINACH
HAIR HEALTHY
For soft, flowing tresses, make sure you’re getting an equal amount of B vitamins in your diet. We naturally get plenty of B-6 because it’s in most grains, but it’s easier to end up with a biotin or B-12 deficiency if you don’t pay attention. Focus on foods like salmon, eggs, spinach, and broccoli for a healthy balance of B vitamins for your hair.
YOUR DRINK DRESS UP
THESE BEAUTIFUL BEVERAGES ARE SURE TO TURN HEADS
BLUE MARTINI WITH FLORAL ICE CUBES
BOLD COLORS Fresh florals. An eye-catching shimmer. The perfect embellishment. We’re talking cocktails, not the catwalk. But like fashion, the art of mixology is full of ways to push the limits with creative twists on classic recipes, and unique adornments guaranteed to turn heads. There’s no reason your personal style can’t extend to the drink in your hand, and this botanical beverage is bound to taste as delicious as it looks.
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 ounces Absolut Citron
• 1/2 ounce Blue Curaçao
• 1/2 ounce lemonade
• 1 ounce Sprite
• Edible flowers such as rose, lavender, hibiscus and nasturtiums
DIRECTIONS:
Pour Sprite into ice cube trays and add edible flower combinations. Let freeze overnight.
Combine Absolut Citron, Blue Curaçao, lemonade and ice cubes in martini shaker. Shake and strain into a martini glass.
Allow ice cubes to melt, gradually filling the glass with Sprite and garnishing the drink with beautiful botanicals.
ARTICLE BY CATE MARIAN
FIG + THYME
SPARKLING LEMONADE
INGREDIENTS: DIRECTIONS:
• thyme simple syrup
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 bunch thyme
• 2 fresh figs
• 3/4 ounce lemon juice
• 3/4 ounce thyme syrup
• 3/4 ounce Sprite
In a small saucepan, simmer sugar, water and thyme leaves over low heat for 5 minutes or until sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat and let the thyme infuse into the syrup for at least 10 minutes.
For the cocktail, muddle figs and lemon juice in the bottom of a glass. Add ice, 3/4 of the thyme syrup and Sprite. Stir and garnish with fig and a sprig of thyme.
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 1/2 ounces premium vodka
• 1 ounce lemon juice
• 2 ounces purple shimmery liqueur
• Blackberry vodka
• Moscato wine
• Luster petal dust
• Sugar syrup (optional)
DIRECTIONS:
Combine blackberry vodka, moscato wine and pinch of luster petal dust to make purple shimmery liqueur. Adjust proportions depending on flavor preferences. Add sugar syrup to make it sweeter if desired.
Pour vodka, shimmery liqueur and lemon juice into a cocktail shaker. Shake well and pour into glass over ice.
PURPLE KISS
PASSION FRUIT
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 tablespoons passion fruit
• 6-8 mint leaves, chopped, plus 2-3 small sprigs
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 1/2 ounce lime juice, freshly squeezed
• 1 ounce club soda
DIRECTIONS:
Muddle passion fruit, mint leaves, sugar and lime juice in bottom of glass.
Fill with crushed ice.
Finish with club soda and stir.
Garnish with slice of passion fruit, pineapple and mint sprigs.
events
SEPTEMBER 4TH
The Painters Palette
38443 N School House Rd. Cave Creek, AZ 85331 | 9:00 AM
Join The Painters Palette in the Arizona Room for a free arts and crafts gathering for adults. Bring your paints, pastels, and easels to create art in any medium. This self-guided event is open to all skill levels. No registration needed, but donations to the Desert Foothills Library are appreciated. For questions, call 480-488-2286.
SEPTEMBER 6TH
Gourd and Fiber Clay Art Class
34250 N. 60th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85266 United States | 10:00 AM
Join instructor Dar Saucedo on September 6 & 9 from 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM for a hands-on class at $250. Learn to use fiber clay over a gourd armature to create a whimsical character. This two-day workshop covers sculpting techniques, painting, and embellishments. All supplies are provided; bring an apron, snack, or lunch. Registration required.
SEPTEMBER 13TH
Carefree Farmers Market
E Sundial Cir, Carefree, AZ 85377 | 8:00 AM
Every Friday from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, the Carefree Farmers Market features fresh produce, local goods, and artisanal treats. Enjoy a vibrant community atmosphere and support local vendors.
SEPTEMBER 19TH
Musical Theatre of Anthem production of Into the Woods
42201 N. 41st Drive, Suite B100, Anthem, AZ 85086 | 7:00 PM
Catch the enchanting musical Into the Woods on Thursday, September 19, 2024, at 7:00 PM at the Musical Theatre of Anthem in Anthem, AZ. The story intertwines the lives of a Baker and his wife, Cinderella, and Jack as they navigate their wishes and the consequences of their actions. Tickets go on sale to the public on August 15, 2024. For tickets and more info, contact 623-336-6001 or mtatickets@yahoo.com.
SEPTEMBER 21ST
Majestic Mariposas at the Desert Botanical Gardens
1201 N. Galvin Parkway Phoenix, AZ 85008 | 9:30 AM
From September 21 to November 10, visit the Cohn Family Butterfly Pavilion from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Enjoy a vibrant display of monarch and Southwestern butterflies amidst lush plants and colorful blooms. This dazzling fall experience is included with membership or general admission and is fun for all ages.
SEPTEMBER 29TH
Debbie Gibson Electric Youth 35th Anniversary
4725 E. Mayo Blvd. Phoenix, AZ 85050 | 7:00 PM
Debbie Gibson, a multi-talented artist with over 30 years in the industry, celebrates the 35th anniversary of her hit “Lost in Your Eyes” and album Electric Youth. Known for her record-breaking success and acclaimed stage performances, Gibson will perform solo with a piano at the Musical Instrument Museum, showcasing her enduring talent and iconic music.
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS SEPTEMBER 2024 Want
