Los Angeles November 2016

HOME/AWAY Edition

MORGAN STEWART STYLE & SUBSTANCE

6 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

Contributor Call Out PHOTO BY:

SEAN DREWS seandrews.com @seandrewsphoto Home Experts - Real Estate Royalty 1535 Carla Ridge Beverly Hills, CA 90210 DATE TAKEN: SEPTEMBER 8, 2016

LOCALE MAGAZINE | 7

A NOTE FROM OUR

PU BLISHER ERIK HALE PUBLISHER + FOUNDER erik@localemagazine.com | @local_e

THE TEAM ASHLEY SMITH COO/Co-Founder ashley@localemagazine.com | @ashleyelainexo ART REILLY KAVANAUGH Art Director + Designer reilly@localemagazine.com | @reillyek EDITORIAL ALANA ARONSON Editor alana@localemagazine.com | @alana_aronson TAMARA PHILIPS Editor tamara@localemagazine.com | @tamarakahooya JORDAN LIGONS Editor jordan@localemagazine.com | @justjayyL SALES & MARKETING MIKE TODD SMITH Market Manager mts@localemagazine.com | @miketoddsmith JASON KOSKY Market Manager jason@localemagazine.com | @locale_jason BRIANNA ROMANO Partnerships + Marketing Director brianna@localemagazine.com | @briannabanawna DAVID LOWE Market Manager david@localemagazine.com | @diggs310 FINANCE VALERIE KERR Accountant accounting@localemagazine.com DISTRIBUTION RICK RAMIREZ & ROBERT JONES

“Home is the nicest word there is.”—Laura Ingalls Wilder “The home should be the treasure chest of living.”—Le Corbusier At the end of every vacation I am genuinely dragging my feet, bags, and fiancé begrudgingly across the airport as we make for the most dreadful of all places: home. We have to leave these blue skies, palm trees and beautifully concocted cocktails for the horror that is our California lifestyle.

Can you imagine?

Upon arriving home, even leaving the airport, our now refreshed eyes send a signal to our recently washed brains.

“Look around,” they tell us. “Do you see how beautiful this place is?” they inquire. Can this be the place we left? Why did we ever leave? Absence makes the heart grow fonder and the eye more attuned.

That is how home feels and why we always return.

In this Home/Away issue we hope to show you the wonderful place you call home from our perspective, with freshly rubbed eyes.

We begin with an interview with world renowned chef Wolfgang Puck who dishes (literally) about his culinary upbringing (Hungry Like the Wolf), talk with five Los Angeles real estate royalties (Real Estate Royalty), explore Tokyo (Taking in Tokyo) and set up a fantasy trip to Asia with our fantasy dinner at WP24 (Be Our Guest).

We then talk about a lot more than shoes with our Cover Feature Morgan (Ally for Awareness, Practical Joker, Louboutin Lover), spend a day shopping and eating at The Point in El Segundo with one of our favorite bloggers (Let’s Get to the Point!), and talk to Jeff Beacher about his vanishing act (The Evolution of Jeff Beacher).

I would take a deep breath if I could but in our “content is king” driven publication we still show you awesome yoga poses (Pose-Itivity), talk nightlife with impresario John Terzian (Night in Shining Armor), show you our new favorite barbershop (Let’s Get Faded) and take you on a culinary tour of Long Beach (Culinary Puzzle Pieces) ...... (officially ran out of breath before stories).

You get it.

We love where you live.

Do you?

THE CONTRIBUTORS WRITERS BLAKE PINTO blakepinto.com CHRISTINE WILLIAMSON spring-social.com DAMON GONZALEZ theycallmedaymz.com | @theycallmedaymz ELAINE MORGAN CUTTING liberarilyemc.com | @el2aine JEANETTE SWANSON JODY MILLER jodymiller.journoportfolio.com JUSTIN SEDGWICK justinsedgwicksite.wordpress.com | @jsedg11 LINDSAY DELONG iLikeLindsay.com MELISSA MITCHELL melissaLmitchell.com | @melissaaliana NANDA DASSOU nandadyssou.com SIERRA EVERETT @_sierrarae TYLER HOLLAND @tyler_jal | @vbstrct VICTORIA RAMIREZ @victoriaramirez02 PHOTOGRAPHERS ADAM GENTRY gentryimages.com | @adamgentry AMANDA PROUDFIT proudfitphotography.com | @amandaproudfit BRADLEY BLACKBURN BApictures.com | @bapictures_com BRIAN CHAN brianchanstudios.com EMMA MCINTYRE emmamcintyre.com | @emmaeliza GIL COPE gilcope.com | @gilcope JOE MAGNANI & JARED SCHLACHET OF JSQUARED PHOTOGRAPHY jsquaredphotography.com | @j2pix NATASHA LEE bynatasha.net | @talktonatasha SEAN DREWS seandrews.com | @seandrewsphoto TRAVIS MCCOY travismccoy.com | @travis_mccoy_photography FA S H I O N S T Y L I S T S COURTNEE SCULLY FOR LALALUXE lalaluxe.com | @lalaluxecourtnee JACKIE ROSE jackierosestyle.com | @jackierosestyle KAREN PATTERSON kreatifphotography.com REBECCA AROZ tailoredtantrums.com BEAUTY STYLISTS BRI OROZCO briorohair.com | @bri_oro BRIAN BOND brianbondmakeup.com | @brianbondmakeup DEVON DUFF devonduffmakeup.com | @devonduff ELIZABETH CASTELLANOS makeupbyliz.com | @makeupbyliz JENNIFER MAU @beautycrave83 JULIE LAZAIRE GARNIER SCOTT KING scottkinghair.com | @scottkinghair SONIA RESHETNIKOA soniaresh.com | @soniaresh *For full information on our contributors go to www.localemagazine.com/about

ERIK HALE PUBLISHER LO CAL E M AG A Z I N E 2755 Bristol St Ste 295, Costa Mesa, CA 92626 949.436.8910 • www.localemagazine.com @localemagazine • #localemagazine

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LOCALE MAGAZINE

CONTENTS November 2016 T H I S I S S U E : Home/Away

96

Room and Board

Home Room 101 A Mix of Traditional and Modern

118

Escape: Japan

Taking in Tokyo 7 Days in Japan’s Capital City Has Us Hungry for More

84

Home Experts

Real Estate Royalty Los Angeles’ Leading Real Estate Professionals

99

124

Home/Away Guide

HOME (Away From Home)

Everything You Need to Know For a Perfect Getaway at Miramonte Resort & Spa

Our Guide to Nesting, Being the Perfect Party Host and Making Away Feel Like Home

112

128

The Bicycle Hotel and Casino

Viva Los Angeles The New Bicycle Hotel and Casino Brings Vegas Charm to Los Angeles

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Away Feature

Relaxation Destination

114

Home Profile

A Home Décor Empire Jonathan Adler’s Happy Accident Turned Career

Setting the Table

Be Our Guest Chinese Cuisine That Will Become Your Newest Holiday Tradition

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CONTENTS November 2016 16 24 26

Native Knowledge Where to be Monday-Sunday

Localendar 20 Unforgettable Events in Los Angeles

30

Long Beach Dining

Insta-Wow

Culinary Puzzle Pieces

Home and Travel Bloggers and Businesses We Love

Long Beach’s Eclectic Culinary Scene is a Foodie’s Perfect Fit

EAT/DRINK

36

Popd Up

Let’s Give Them Something to Pop About This Locally Sourced Soda is Popping Up all Over LA

67 50 32

Let’s Get to the Point!

Satisfy Your Taste Buds and Shopping Fix at The Point

Beauty Expert

Pose-itivity Aerial Lynn Inspires Others with Yoga and Words of Positivity

That’s What She Said

HOME/AWAY

Eat Expert

48

Up and Coming Designers

Up and Stunning

These Los Angeles Brands Aim to Make Their Mark

64

Hungry Like The Wolf

Like a Gentleman Barbershop

Getting Schooled With the King of Culinary

Let’s Get Faded

Horse & Carriage Hospitality’s Barbershop Lounge

STYLE/BEAUTY

74

John Terzian

Night in Shining Armor A Leader in Los Angeles Nightlife

80

Santa Catalina Island Company

Catalina Dreamin’

40

Cover Story

Ally for Awareness, Practical Joker, Louboutin Lover It’s Not All About the Riches: Morgan Stewart Gets Relatable

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54

76 Fashion Spread

All That Glitters is Goals Go High-Fashion With These Diamonds in the Buff

Do Profile

The Evolution of Jeff Beacher After Losing Over 200 Pounds, Comedian Jeff Beacher Launches the Next Version of His Infamous Madhouse

Explore Life Outdoors on Catalina Island

®

All rights reserved © 2016, the entire contents of this publication are protected by copyright. No part of this publication can be reproduced, stored in retrieval system or transmitted in any forms or by any means without express written prior permission of the copyright owner.

LOCALE MAGAZINE

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COVER

Photographed By: Joe Magnani and Jared Schlachet of Jsquared Photography, jsquaredphotography.com | @j2pix Model: Morgan Stewart, boobsandloubs.com | @boobsandloubs Location: 9145 St Ives Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90069 Styled By: Courtnee Scully for LALALUXE, lalaluxe.com | @lalaluxecourtnee Hair By: Scott King, scottkinghair.com | @scottkinghair Makeup By: Elizabeth Castellanos, makeupbyliz.com | @makeupbyliz Apparel Provided By: Tylynn Nyguyen, Inland Venice, inlandvenice.com Accessories Provided By: Charles Albert, charlesalbert.com

Making THE ISSUE

You may know the fashion-forward Morgan Stewart from E!’s “Rich Kids of Beverly Hills,” or her notable fashion blog, Boobs and Loubs. We are stoked to have the beautiful and incredibly witty Ms. Stewart as our cover story this issue.

“For the shoot with Morgan, we used a combination of natural light and strobes to capture a lifestyle feel,” photographer Joe Magnani says. “We used Canon cameras and Profoto lighting to create the vibe we wanted. Morgan is beautiful and a lot of fun, so the shoot was effortless.”

Styled in a blush Jason Wu dress, white ruffled Thomas Wylde dress, black Mac Duggal gown, Tylynn Nguyen gold and blue dresses, and a black A.L.C. bodysuit— Morgan looked stunning for every shot. Not to mention the beautiful Los Angeles home, provided by The Agency, was an epic backdrop to Morgan’s photos. It’s as if you can see all of Los Angeles from the outdoor living area.

BY LOCALS FOR LOCALS /// WHERE TO BE MONDAY-SUNDAY

WHAT’S UP, DOC? EXPERT: Sanjay Grover MD, FACS CREDENTIALS: Owner and Plastic Surgeon, The Center for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and the Laser Lounge Medspa

Ò After an early morning ride on my Peloton bike and a full day of surgery, I meet our boys at flag football practice or our daughter’s high school tennis practice. My wife and I have to divide and conquer! Once the dust settles, we enjoy a healthy home-cooked meal or take the whole family out for a relaxed dinner at Burger Lounge in Beverly Hills where I might indulge in the Grass-Fed Bison Burger. burgerlounge.com

Ò After dropping the kids at school, my wife and I will enjoy a morning breakfast and catch up at Il Fornaio in Beverly Hills. My favorite breakfast at Il Fornaio is the Uova Saluet with a Caffe Lattè. For dinner we might head to e. baldi in Beverly Hills, where I love their Branzino alla griglia o al forno. ilfornaio.com ebaldi.com

Ò It’s back in the OR for a full day of surgery and I try to squeeze in a ride before heading home for another fun-filled, home-cooked family dinner. If the weather is nice, sometimes we will take the kids out for an evening meal on the patio at Georgie at the Montage Beverly Hills.

Really like to start with their Fennel and Za’atar Parker House Rolls. georgierestaurant.com

Ò After another busy day of shuttling between the office and the OR, I pick up the three kids from tennis and then take my wife out for cocktails at Sidebar and then to dinner at Cut which are both at the Beverly Wilshire. We never leave without sharing the Dark Chocolate Souffle!

noburestaurants.com

Ò After a full day of sports, dance rehearsal and piano with the kids, Nina and I head out for a date night with the chic crowd in the courtyard at Spago in Beverly Hills.

I enjoyed the Colorado Lamb Rack on our last visit there. wolfgangpuck.com

fourseasons.com

“

After another busy day of shuttling between the office and the OR, I pick up the three kids from tennis and then take my wife out for cocktails at Sidebar.

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Ò If I can manage to escape the office early, my wife and love to head to a leisurely lunch at Nobu Malibu where the view, food, and cocktails are phenomenal. It’s impossible to pick just one favorite there, but don’t miss the Chilean Sea Bass with Dry Miso.

Ò If the day isn’t packed with the kids’ sports and activities, we love to relax and enjoy brunch in the beautiful dining room at Bouchon Beverly Hills. thomaskeller.com

PHOTO BY: Bradley Blackburn

Photos - Monday: Adam Gentry | Saturday: Joe Magnani & Jared Schlachet of JSquared Photography

NATIVE KNOWLEDGE

NATIVE KNOWLEDGE

BY LOCALS FOR LOCALS /// WHERE TO BE MONDAY-SUNDAY

BACK TO BLACK EXPERT: Caitlin Murray CREDENTIALS: Owner and Interior Designer, Black Lacquer Design Company

Ò I recently moved to the Echo Park Lake area and my new place has a great view of the water, which is a much appreciated reminder to get out for some nature and fresh air.

I love taking my cocker spaniel, Color, for walks on the weekends when we can just wander around and meet neighbors and other dogs. It’s so picturesque, friendly and full of life. Added bonus: you can always seem to find a fruit or street corn vendor right when it sounds most delicious.

Ò Italian is probably my all-time favorite cuisine, and I’m not sure anyone in LA does it better than Terroni. They have two equally great locations, but I’m a sucker for the 1920s architecture of the downtown space that was originally home to an ornate bank. The staff is super hip, the music is ironic/awesome and it’s a perfect ambiance for both brunch and dinner. Their black truffle sausage pasta is one of the best things I’ve ever tasted. terroni.com

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Ò The Must is a chill spot for brunch in DTLA and one of the few places still offering bottomless mimosas, so that’s an instant bonus in my book.

The design is tailored and cozy and they have a great little patio space that’s surrounded by pretty plants. I’m a big fan of their burger…but mostly their booze.

breakroom86.com

Ò Though I try to take weekends off from whatever feels like “work,” sometimes I’m just in the mood to shop for weird vintage art, random brass figurines and general decor that I definitely don’t need (but my justification is that it can always go to a client!).

I like the Fairfax flea market because it’s small enough to conquer (since I must see it ALL) and is great for casual strolling with company. Still, I generally avoid subjecting my friends to the crazed state that is all-out interior design mode.

themust.com

Ò El Coyote Cafe is an absolute LA institution located in the Fairfax district. It’s been around for 85 years and keeps things classic with original menu items and kitschy decadesold design. I’m obsessed with their enchiladas and am convinced the restaurant’s haunted (in a good way?). elcoyotecafe.com

Ò Ever since The Line hotel opened in Koreatown a few years back, it seems like 80s bar Break Room 86 has been killing it. To enter, you’re led by a host through an employeesonly style entrance, then through an old-school vending machine. The space is decked out with tube TVs and a stage where you’ll usually find a cover band playing all the jams from the era or a Michael Jackson impersonator who’s scary close to the real deal. They also have private karaoke rooms (with more secret doors disguised by a wall of lockers) that are an absolute blast for parties.

“

I love taking my cocker spaniel, Color, for walks on the weekends when we can just wander around and meet neighbors and other dogs.

”

Ò One of my buds introduced me to the semi-private beach, Carbon Beach, about a year ago and now it’s my favorite seaside spot in Malibu. A big bonus is that pups can run off-leash without repercussion, though I’m not sure it’s technically “allowed.” The long stretch is sparsely populated with locals since charming beachfront homes line the coast, so you basically stake an umbrella in someone’s front yard. Goals.

PHOTO BY: Sean Drews

NATIVE KNOWLEDGE

BY LOCALS FOR LOCALS /// WHERE TO BE MONDAY-SUNDAY

GOOD SPORT

Ò Foxfire Room in Valley Village, I truly believe everyone needs a great dive bar, and this is where I choose to spend some time. This place has old school valley seeping out of the walls—great drinks, great prices, and great bartenders. They meet all of my dive bar criteria.

EXPERT: Stephen Chavez CREDENTIALS: General Manager, Sportsmen’s Lodge Hotel

Ò Black Market Liquor in Studio City is a cool pub to grab a bite and drink. Their cocktail menu changes weekly and they have a great selection craft beers and wines. Chef Antonia Lofaso created an eclectic menu that has a little bit for everyone. blackmarketliquorbar.com

Ò The Fat Dog is a NoHo arts district happy hour staple. With the mini cheeseburgers, mini pulledpork sandwiches or the homemade Swedish meatballs, one can’t go wrong. Owner and Chef John Gladish changes his menu seasonally.

Cocktails are the thing here, I would suggest either the Dog Bite or Off the Leash. Plus, on Tuesday night they offer 50 percent off all their bottled wine. A good time and even better atmosphere!

Ò Idle Hour in North Hollywood, the 1933 Group did an amazing job with this place. They reconstructed this LA Historic Landmark back to its original glory. This place plays up Americana at its finest. With both beers and cocktails on tap and classic American inspired food, the decor and cuisine blend perfectly. Plus they have a dog smoking a cigar in back, what more could you want? Having a great dinner in a giant whiskey barrel always sounds like a great night to me. idlehourbar.com

Ò Gotta get a workout in, and for that, you have to try hot spinning at the Sweat Shoppe in Toluca Lake! After a 50-minute ride in an 82-degree room, you come out of their soaked in sweat.

Segun is the instructor on Thursday nights that pushes you to the finish line, plus the music is fantastic. This place is not intimidating and the staff is so friendly and encouraging, they treat everyone like family.

Ò Lunch at Salsa & Beer in North Hollywood is one of the most Authentic Mexican Restaurants in LA. From the moment you walk in you feel the lively atmosphere and you couple that with great food and margaritas, that’s my kind of Saturday.

“

Foxfire Room in Valley Village, I truly believe everyone needs a great dive bar, and this is where I choose to spend some time.

”

salsaandbeernorthhollywood.com

Ò Patio Cafe at the Sportsmen’s Lodge Hotel, you can’t beat the brunch style menu, plus DJs at the pool all summer long, there is no better way to end your weekend....period. sportsmenslodge.com

thesweatshoppe.com

thefatdogla.com

PHOTO BY: Sean Drews

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NATIVE KNOWLEDGE

BY LOCALS FOR LOCALS /// WHERE TO BE MONDAY-SUNDAY

CREATE SPACE

Ò When the last loose ends of any projects I was busy with this week are behind me, Shabbat dinner cooking occupies the rest of the afternoon and early evening hours.

We usually stay in for a family meal after which we all just hang out.

EXPERT: Michal Brison CREDENTIALS: Architect and Studio Principal, MBB Architect

Ò The week starts off pretty hectic with school schedule for my four children. Breakfast, lunch bags, and drop-offs are a daily scene. Once that’s all done, I review the project’s progress and my ongoing to-do list and the phone calls and emails start to rain.

A lunch break is key to relax the mind and soul and my favorite lunch spot is Pedaler’s Fork in Calabasas. The tomato bisque and grilled cheese sandwich is divine with a nice bottle of Pellegrino.

Then, back for pick-ups, homework assignments, after school programs, gymnastics and finally home for a freshly cooked dinner, some wine and bedtime for all. pedalersfork.com

Ò Once the morning routine is behind me, I go for a three mile run around the Calabasas lake. This is a great workout I need for both the body and soul. When I get home, it’s back to the drawing board with design and drafting for which ever project is at the development phase.

Occasional lunch at The Local Peasant with a client or a friend is always a treat. thelocalpeasant.com

Ò Weekly job site meetings with clients and contractors occur to review progress and design related dilemmas.

On the way back I head over to Trader Joe’s for their fresh produce and frozen treats because unfortunately groceries won’t buy themselves.

My girls have a long gymnastics class and going to dinner with the kids at ROSTI is not uncommon. This is a gem for local families with great Italian food for big and small alike.

woodranch.com toscanova.com sugarfishsushi.com

rostituscankitchen.com

Ò As the work week is almost over it’s time to make some follow-up calls to engineers and consultants and at times a visit to the local building department to review or clear a project permit. I sometimes like to squeeze in an early afternoon class at the The Dailey Method before the regular pickups. thedaileymethod.com

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Ò Sometimes we sleep in and others we go for a hike at the Santa Monica mountains. The views are always breathtaking and the hike is a good all-family activity.

We like to grab some BBQ at Wood Ranch where the kids love the mashed potatoes and I always order the sliders with a side of peanut coleslaw. Date night with my husband is my favorite part of the week (no kids allowed). Dinner at Toscanova or sushi at Sugar Fish at ‘The Commons’ and a movie are a great way to catch up and spend some time together.

“

Ò Occasional mani/pedi at my local nail salon. We often have family related events and parties to attend but, if not, then a BBQ and a swim in our pool with some friends is what we prefer. My husband makes the best Piña-Colada and sangrias with a virgin version for the kids to enjoy, too!

A lunch break is key to relax the mind and soul.

”

PHOTO BY: Sean Drews

LOCALE ndar

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UNFORGETTABLE EVENTS IN LOS ANGELES WRITTEN BY: TYLER HOLLAND

YOGA EXPO

theyogaexpo.org ¢ Whether you’re an expert or a beginner and want to see

what all the fuss is about, the Yoga Expo has something for everyone. Classes and workshops are available for all levels, so no excuses. Local and sustainable food vendors and live music are also featured throughout the event. Dec. 17

UCLA VS. USC

ticketcity.com/college-football/ ucla-bruins-football-tickets ¢ Bruins or Trojans? Even if

you’re a neutral supporter, one thing is certain: this is one of the greatest rivalries in collegiate sports and a can’t miss game for all football fans.

Nov. 19

LA RAMS VS. MIAMI DOLPHINS

lacoliseum.com ¢ Finally, after all these years of waiting, LA has a football team

once more! Come cheer on your LA Rams to victory against their opponents, the Miami Dolphins, this November. Can’t make the game? No worries. Head to the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum’s main site for more home games. Nov. 6th at 1:05 p.m.

ICE AT SANTA MONICA

CHRISTMAS TREE LANE

ice skating comes to this beachside community, offering the somewhat surreal visual of a winter activity by the sea without the chill. With 8,000 square-feet of rink, there’s more than enough room to enjoy the season with friends and family, or even on your own. Join the fun and take part in a holiday tradition.

across the country begin the search for the perfect Christmas tree to light and decorate. In similar fashion, Los Angeles gets ready to put on a spectacle for all those who love these holiday lights.

Each holiday season a mile long stretch of conifer trees gets covered with festive lights, transforming it into the historic Christmas Tree Lane.

The lighting festival takes place on the second Saturday of December, starting at 2 p.m. with the lighting taking place around 6. Enjoy the lights until New Year’s Day!

downtownsm.com/ice ¢ Every holiday season,

Nov. 3 -Jan. 16 2017

TURKEY TROT LA

turkeytrot.la ¢ Love Thanksgiving but

LA LIGHTS

lazoolights.org ¢ A holiday tradition, LA Lights transforms the Los Angeles Zoo into an illuminated

winter wonderland. Each season promises to be more spectacular than the last, so mark your calendars. Check back with the LA Zoo Lights site for additional details surrounding this year’s festivities. Starting Nov. 18

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sometimes get that guilty feeling after completely indulging in your favorite foods? The Turkey Trot has the answer. With a 5k and 10k option that takes you through the historic scenic streets of Downtown Los Angeles, you can be free to indulge later without that “I’ve gotta hit the gym twice as hard now” feeling. Whether you plan on running the event or having a more relaxing stroll with friends and family, it promises to be a great start to your Thanksgiving Day. Nov 26 6:45 a.m. race day registration opens, 8 a.m. 5k starts, 8:30 a.m. 10k starts

christmastreelane.net ¢ After Thanksgiving, families

WESTEDGE DESIGN FAIR

westedgedesignfair.com ¢ Celebrating its fourth

year, WestEdge Design Fair showcases the best in modern and cutting edge design.

Guests get the opportunity to browse and shop the wide selection of state-of-the-art home furnishing goods with many making their West Coast introduction this year.

There are also opportunities to gain insight from leading names in the design industry.

If you love design or simply want to see what’s new on the market, this is a can’t miss event. Nov. 3-6. Opening night preview party Nov. 3 7-10 p.m., Open to the public Nov. 5-6 10 a.m.- 5 p.m.

RACE AT K1 SPEED

k1speed.com/torrance-location ¢ Are you a Formula 1 fan who wants to

THE NUTCRACKER

losangelesballet.org/the-nutcracker ¢ A generations old Los Angeles tradition, The Nutcracker is the perfect event for people

of all ages. Experience a production that has delighted audiences time and time again. Whether it’s your first time attending or part of your own tradition, each performance is special and is sure to put you in the holiday spirit. December 2016

KANYE WEST: THE SAINT PABLO TOUR

kanyewest.com ¢ One of the most talked

about tours is coming to The Forum in Inglewood this fall. Expect some ‘Famous’ beats and rhymes, but also get ready to see a visual performance that will blow your mind. For The Saint Pablo Tour, Mr. West is pulling out all the stops for the audience. In other words, it’s just Kanye being Kanye.

Nov. 2 at 8 p.m.

in for a treat. Inspired by the music of David Bowie and Lou Reed, Hedwig and the Angry Inch follows transgender singer Hedwig (played by “Glee’s” Darren Criss), a rock-and-roll force of nature, as she chases her dream of stardom. This production is sure to be one you will never forget. Nov. 1-27

DOCTOR STRANGE AT CINÉPOLIS LUXURY CINEMAS - WESTLAKE VILLAGE

cinepolisusa.com/westlake-village ¢ This eight screen, 618 seat

PUBLIC STAR PARTY

griffithobservatory.org ¢ Since the beginning of time,

mankind has been looking up at the stars in an attempt to figure out the endless questions they pose. While no one could truly understand everything that happens in our universe, you could still get one step closer through Griffith Observatory’s free public star parties. Come satisfy the astronomer in you and expand your horizons. Once a month from 2-9:45 p.m.

HEDWIG AND THE ANGRY INCH

hollywoodpantages.com/showinfo ¢ Come see the show

that has been hailed as “groundbreaking and undoubtedly ahead of its time” by Entertainment Weekly. Winner of four 2014 Tony Awards, audiences are

theater is the ultimate in luxury cinema experiences.

With gourmet entrees and appetizers, along with waiter service and some of the most comfortable recliners you’ve ever sat in, you’ll never look at movie theaters the same way again. This month, see the new MARVEL classic, Doctor Strange, the way it was meant to be seen, on the big screen.

Nov. 4 at 7 p.m.

MONTANA AVENUE HOLIDAY WALK

santamonica.com/event/ montana-ave-holiday-walk ¢ Santa Monica’s Montana

Avenue can be considered a more laid-back alternative to the bustling and often overcrowded Rodeo Drive.

From high-end retailers to gourmet restaurants, it’s easy to spend an entire day on this street alone. Each December, the Holiday Walk shows off

the best of what this chic destination has to offer along with live music and opportunities to take photos with Santa. We all have holiday shopping to do. Might as well shop in style.

Dec. 4 at 4 p.m.

MAD DECENT BLOCK PARTY maddecentblockparty.com ¢ By this point, summer

has pretty much become a not too distant memory, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t room for one more summerstyle block party. Named after Diplo’s record label and hosting big names such as Tropkillaz and Kesha with more to be announced, it’s hard to think of a better way to start the fall season.

Serving as the tour’s grand finale, you’ll be guaranteed a mad decent time.

experience the same adrenaline-filled activity that gave greats like Vettel and Hamilton their introduction to motor racing? Even if you’ve never watched an F1 (or any other) race, there’s no denying it, experiencing this speed for yourself is an exhilarating experience that is sure to leave you hooked. Come test your skills against friends and family and possibly leave with a new passion.

BEYOND BLING SHOWCASE

lacma.org ¢ Who knew jewelry could be

used to convey personal or political messages? Featuring collections from the US, Europe, Australia and New Zealand, this exhibit shows how jewelry made using nontraditional techniques and materials has the potential to shock, surprise and delight onlookers. A collection like this has never before been seen on the West Coast, so don’t miss out.

Oct. 2 - Feb. 5 2017

2017 NHL ALL-STAR HOCKEY GAME

kings.nhl.com ¢ This is a year of All-Stars

for Southern California.

Baseball fans rejoiced as this year’s All-Star Weekend was hosted by San Diego and this winter, Los Angeles hosts the NHL All-Star hockey game.

This season the Kings will be celebrating their 50th anniversary along with the NHL’s 100th anniversary.

This is sure to be one of the season’s highlights.

Jan. 28-29 2017

Oct. 1 at 1 p.m.

FIREWORKS NYE CRUISE

eventbrite.com ¢ What better way to say bye

to the old year and usher in the new than watching the fireworks aboard the Catalina King Yacht with your closest friends? With three decks and five DJs, you’ll get an experience unlike any other event offered. Book your tickets while you can and celebrate the New Year in style.

Dec. 31 at 9 p.m.- Sunday Jan. 1 at 1 a.m.

THANKSGIVING DINNER CRUISE hornblower.com/port/overview/mdr+thankgiving ¢ Enjoy Thanksgiving but skip the cleanup (and meal

preparation). Let Hornblower Cruises take care of the hard stuff while you relax with friends and family on Marina del Rey’s beautiful waterfront. Enjoy a boarding glass of champagne, Thanksgiving buffet and live entertainment in a setting that feels like paradise. Nov. 24 boarding times 11:30 a.m. and 4 p.m.

LOCALE MAGAZINE | 25

I N STA - WOW HOME and TRAVEL BLOGGERS and BUSINESSES We

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SHOPPE BY AMBER INTERIORS @shoppe_by_ai

HOTEL NORMANDIE LA @hotelnormandie

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HOTEL ANGELENO @hotelangeleno

NIKI CSÁNYI @niki_csanyi

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COCO Cococozy @cococozy

BLOOM AND PLUME Maurice Harris @bloomandplume

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MARY MCDONALD @marymcdonaldinc

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SF GIRL BY BAY Victoria Smith @sfgirlbybay

MITCHELL GOLD + BOB WILLIAMS @mgbwhome

F O LLO W LO CA LE M AG A Z I N E O N I N STAG R A M @localemagazine • #localemagazine

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PHOTO BY: Joe Magnani & Jared Schlachet of JSquared Photography

eat /drink

NOV.

2016

30 LONG BEACH DINING Come to Eat, Stay to Play

32 EAT EXPERT Wolfgang Gives an Inside Scoop on His New Restaurants

36 POPD UP Soda That’s Fresh and Made From Scratch

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EAT EXPERT Hungry Like The Wolf

WOLFGANG PUCK COOKING SCHOOL www.wolfgangpuckcookingschool.com WOLFGANG PUCK TEST KITCHEN 8687 Melrose Ave Ste 345 West Hollywood, CA 90069 www.wolfgangpuck.com PHOTOSHOOT LOCATION: SPAGO BEVERLY HILLS 176 N Canon Dr Beverly Hills, CA 90210 310.385.0880 www.wolfgangpuck.com

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NOVEMBER 2016

Restauration: Photo by Amanda Proudfit

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EAT/DRINK

THE ATTIC

Ò Do you work in the service industry? Stop by on a Monday for 20 percent off your bill.

Don’t work in the service industry? Stop by anyway!

Wine and cheese specials on Tuesday, Whiskey Wednesdays and $3 beers on Thursdays will have you setting a new weekly routine, plus they offer great food all seven days of the week.

3441 East Broadway Long Beach, CA 90803 562.433.0153 theatticonbroadway.com

Long Beach’s Eclectic Culinary Scene is a Foodie’s Perfect Fit WRITTEN BY: BLAKE PINTO

There’s nothing quite like Long Beach.

The eclectic community nestled between Los Angeles and Orange County offers a variety of different restaurants ripe for discovering. From downtown to Retro Row, and of course iconic 2nd Street, there’s a perfect place for everyone. The little big city can only hold onto their secrets for so long before they become too damn good to ignore. These next few spots are on the fringe of Long Beach’s culinary prowess. If you’re in the area, you have got to check them out. Even if you’re not, they’re worth the drive, from wherever you currently are.

Seriously, get in your car and go already!

These are some of the best bites Long Beach has to offer.

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WIDE EYES OPEN PALMS

KAFE NEO

Ò Located in the historic neighborhood of Bluff Heights and at the beginning, or end of Retro Row (depending on how you look at it), Kafe Neo likes to describe themselves as “An American Kitchen with Greek Soul.” Founded on the site of their father’s auto-repair shop owners Gus and Pete love to use organic ingredients with a mixture of Greek imports. Be sure to try their Wild Dandelions or Baklava Tower if you’ve got a sweet tooth.

2800 E 4th St Long Beach, CA, 90814 562.987.1210 kafeneolb.com

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PIZZAREV

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RESTAURATION Ò Restauration is yet another perfect example of how the Long Beach culinary scene is setting the standard for sustainable, local and organically grown grub. The place literally combines the words restore and restaurant, and they stay true to this theme. They feature repurposed lighting, handmade benches and tables with a large fire-lit patio surrounded by gardens creating a wonderful atmosphere for a couple or a group to kick back and enjoy themselves.

2708 E 4th St Long Beach, CA, 90803 562.439.8822 restaurationlb.com 30 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

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CHIANINA STEAKHOUSE

Ò Bringing Chianina steak to 2nd Street, which is rarely found outside Italian borders, this Italian steakhouse decided they would raise the unique breed of cattle themselves.

Combine that with boutique wines, and fresh seasonal sides like roasted broccolini, swiss chard with ricotta or farmed and foraged mushrooms with thyme along with a warm and inviting atmosphere and you’ve found yourself the perfect little spot for any special occasion.

5716 E 2nd St Long Beach, CA, 90803 562.434.2333 chianina.com

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Ò “You say you want a revolution, well, you know,” it’s here—with PizzaRev at the Long Beach Towne Center!

PizzaRev gives guests the chance to customize their own pizzas right before their eyes. Gluten-free or original dough starts off the process, and endless combinations of pizza sauce and toppings guide the culinary adventure.

Opt for organic marinara, white alfredo, bbq sauce or olive oil and pair with a variety of cheeses, meats, veggies and treats—freshpicked basil is a fanfavorite! In just under three minutes, customers can carry their personalized pie straight to their table and enjoy.

Long Beach Towne Center 7551 Carson Blvd B Long Beach, CA 90808 562.420.7908 pizzarev.com

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Ò Wide Eyes Open Palms pop-up coffee shop brings seasonal and sustainable goodies to farmers markets in Long Beach twice a week—and is close to opening up a brick and mortar location. With the intention of supporting local farmers and global coffee makers, WE-OP serves up delicious coffee, homemade baked goods and tasty toasts! Softboiled egg, beets, veggies and cheese on fresh bread is a fan-favorite.

Tuesdays 3-7 Bixby Park Sundays 9-2 Alamitos Bay 562.225.2957 wideeyesopenpalms.com

WORKING CLASS KITCHEN

Ò Working Class Kitchen prides itself on their intentionality behind their brand. The establishment isn’t just a deli that serves delectable dishes like their Kielbasa sausage sandwich or meatball sub with homemade mozzarella cheese melting throughout. Working Class Kitchen focuses on providing local, fresh ingredients to its customers, and ensures its meats were humanely and sustainably raised. With the motto, “Sine Labore Nihil”, which translates to “Nothing Without Work,” this Long Beach spot definitely lets their work speak for itself—and boy does it scream “delicious”!

1322 Coronado Ave Long Beach, CA 90804 562.494.0306 workingclasskitchen. com

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SAINT AND SECOND

Ò This place is all about community. The Hofman Hospitality Group Inc., widely known for Lucille’s Smokehouse Bar-B-Que, decided to launch a new concept in their hometown of Long Beach. Saint and Second manages to combine organic, seasonal and locally sourced ingredients with California art and a plethora of whiskies to create a superb, electric dining experience.

4828 E 2nd St Long Beach, CA 90803 562.433.4828 saintandsecond.com

“

Los Angeles is a great city for many reasons: it’s a big city, there’s great media here, but most of all, there’s great food here.”

WOLFGANG PUCK COOKING SCHOOL www.wolfgangpuckcookingschool.com WOLFGANG PUCK TEST KITCHEN 8687 Melrose Ave Ste 345 West Hollywood, CA 90069 www.wolfgangpuck.com PHOTOSHOOT LOCATION: SPAGO BEVERLY HILLS 176 N Canon Dr Beverly Hills, CA 90210 310.385.0880 www.wolfgangpuck.com 32 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

—Wolfgang Puck

EAT EXPERT

hungry like the

WOLF Getting Schooled With the King of Culinary

WRITTEN BY: CHRISTINE WILLIAMSON PHOTOGRAPHED BY: JOE MAGNANI AND JARED SCHLACHET

THE EXPER T

WOLFGANG PUCK World-Renowned Chef and Restaurateur

An Empire: Wolfgang has over 25 restaurants around the world

Having never heard the name Wolfgang Puck is akin to having never heard of food itself. Before food trucks, before reality-show cooking competitions, before the conception of ultra-trendy restaurants, and before the notion that cooking was cool, there was Wolfgang. Hailing from humble beginnings in Europe, Wolfgang took Los Angeles by storm with the opening of Spago (Italian slang for spaghetti) in 1982. Since then, Wolfgang has opened eateries all over the world, and his empire only continues to grow, with openings in Shanghai and New York this year— and to top it off, a Wolfgang online cooking school!

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“

You can make the best meal and set it underneath a bright neon light and it’s not going to be good—you have to set the mood.”

—Wolfgang Puck

Q: You’re from Austria, but you decided to lay your roots in Los Angeles in 1974. What made you choose Southern California?

Wolfgang Puck: I used to live in the South of France, and I had always wanted to come to California.

Originally I wanted to live in San Francisco, but I couldn’t get a job there, so I came to LA, and I started to like it here because it reminded me of the South of France: beautiful climate, the sun and the beach.

I was only 25 years old, and it all seemed perfect. We opened Spago (originally located in West Hollywood) in 1982 and never looked back. Los Angeles is a great city for many reasons: it’s a big city, there’s great media here, but most of all, there’s great food here.

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F OOD IN D EMA ND : u Be sure to book your reservation two to four weeks in advance for one of Wolfgang’s fine dining restaurants. Spots fill up quick—especially during the holidays!

Q

You have four sons; do any of them plan to follow in your footsteps career wise?

WP: My oldest son, Cameron, is in Boston and is going to be a professor. The second one, Byron, he loves to cook and goes to Cornell University’s Hotel and Restaurant Management School. Last summer he cooked at Girona, which is the world’s number one restaurant (located in Spain).

He’s worked in Chicago, New York, London and this year he’s going to Paris.

He doesn’t want to cook like me; he wants to create his own style. My third boy, Oliver, he’s only 11 years old, and he loves to cook. If I wake him up for breakfast and say, “Oliver, if you don’t get out of bed, I’m going to make the scrambled eggs,” he comes running down the stairs.

My youngest, Alexander, he’s so smart; he has everyone wrapped around his pinky.

Q: Tell us about your office and test kitchen here at the Pacific Design Center.

WP: We started the test kitchen here last summer, as well as our filming studio, and then moved our offices here.

With the test kitchen, we have private dinners a few times a month. We like to open it up and have people experience a 12-course meal and talk to the chefs.

N ATI V E K N OWL ED G E: u Where does Wolfgang hang in LA? Puck loves art and to visit artists in museums—whether it’s Ed Ruscha, John Baldessari, or Mark Bradford. He frequents LACMA or MOCA.

Q: How is your cooking school completely digital?

WP: Online learning is the way of the future. I love books, but books are more like coffee table books now. Every day a new cookbook comes out, hundreds of them every year, but at the end of the day they don’t show you how to do it—they tell you—but you have to figure it out yourself. So I thought, why not do something different and show people how it’s done? Another thing with today’s cookbooks is that they are beautiful, but chefs write them, and I think chefs want to impress other chefs. To make one recipe you need to make three recipes, and it’s not practical for everybody. With my online cooking school, you can make a beautiful meal and make it quick.

Q: Tell us your favorite fall recipe our readers can find on Cooking School.

WP: The Pork Rack. It’s a very good

recipe and not expensive at all. I braise it with apple juice and brown onions, so it’s sweet and rich and has great fall flavors. We also have a lot of beautiful fall soup recipes.

Q: What is your secret to a flawless soup?

WP: When I grew up in Austria, we grew up in the countryside. When my mother made a vegetable soup, she went to the garden and picked up some leeks, cauliflower, carrots, potatoes, whatever was there. Then she cut it up and didn’t even use stock, and chopped up all of the herbs really fine and just made the soup so simple, and everyone would think wow—it tastes so good. So, it’s all about the ingredients. Now, what I use a lot if you’re making a pea, asparagus, bean or broccoli cheddar soup— whatever it might be—if you add a little honey and a little lemon juice, it brings out the flavor, and it’s so much better.

Q: What is your cooking motto?

WP: You buy the best ingredients and try not to f— them up.

Q: What would you cook for a romantic meal?

WP: Eating is an experience for all of the senses. You can make the best meal and set it underneath a bright neon light, and it’s not going to be good— you have to set the mood. The most important thing is setting the mood, and then making something that isn’t too complicated. An easy recipe that always impresses is the Pepper Steak.

You can get great meat at the market, and it’s not complicated. You can do it while they’re there, cook it over a glass of wine, sit down with some candles, and they will think, “Wow, this is really amazing.” Setting the atmosphere with the right music is number one, and then making something simple is second. You can even order take-out and doctor it up—as long as the atmosphere is right, it will be good.

Q: What restaurants do you frequent in LA? WP: I am such a creature of habit. I go to Angelini OSTERIA, or Nobu.

POPD UP www.popdupstore.com @popdup

LET’S GIVE THEM SOMETHING TO

POP ABOUT This Locally Sourced Soda is Popping Up all Over LA

WRITTEN BY: JEANNETTE SWANSON

What if we said there’s a way to still get the fizz of soda pop, but without the high fructose corn syrup and other faux ingredients? Popd Up, a small batch craft soda start up, provides a guilt free carbonated choice by utilizing locally sourced fruits and vegetables by saying no to preservatives and added colors. Founders Joy Youn and Kelsey Iino sell five craft sodas and cold brew teas: Hibiscus Agave, Orange Thyme Cream Soda, Caramel Apple and Lychee Butterfly; the fifth flavor changes with the seasons.

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Using their bartending backgrounds, Joy and Kelsey enjoy crafting many flavors and combinations. Joy sometimes draws from Thai inspiration to create syrups with eastern Asian flavor. These fizzy and fierce female entrepreneurs love what they do and hope to eventually expand into an independent space and into the pre-packaging of their beverages and brewed preserves.

FOOD FESTIVAL PROS Ò In the name of being green and sustainable, Joy and Kelsey sell their sodas in 24-ounce jars for $8 when participating at area food festivals.

NATIVE KNOWLEDGE Ò Look for their seasonal sodas and cold brew teas: Asian Ginger Pear, Passion Fruit Peach, Blueberry Blackberry with Charcoal, Grapefruit Basil and Blood Orange Elderflower

PHOTO CREDIT @EATLIKEABOSSLADY

EAT/DRINK

PHOTO BY: Emma McIntyre

style

/beauty

NOV.

2016

40 COVER STORY Morgan Stewart Talks Real Life and Real Love

48 UP AND COMING DESIGNERS Up and Stunning Designers in Los Angeles to Look For

50 BEAUTY EXPERT This Yogini Pushes for Mental Health Awareness

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LIKE A GENTLEMAN BARBERSHOP Let’s Get Faded

54 FASHION SPREAD Experience These High-Fashion Bare Essentials

64 LIKE A GENTLEMAN BARBERSHOP The Classiest Cut You’ll Ever Get

67 THAT’S WHAT SHE SAID The Point Offers Food Lovers and Fashionistas an LA Hotspot

LIKE A GENTLEMAN BARBERSHOP 8919 Sunset Boulevard West Hollywood, CA 90069 424.335.0553

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NOVEMBER 2016

It’s Not All About the Riches: Morgan Stewart Gets Relatable WRITTEN BY: LINDSAY DELONG PHOTOGRAPHED BY: JOE MAGNANI AND JARED SCHLACHET STYLED BY: COURTNEE SCULLY HAIR BY: SCOTT KING MAKEUP BY: ELIZABETH CASTELLANOS

40 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

HOME PROVIDED BY: Ed Fitz, The Agency BRE #1023092 331 Foothill Rd Ste 100 Beverly Hills, CA 90210 424.230.3700 www.theagencyre.com PHOTOSHOOT LOCATION: 9145 St Ives Dr Los Angeles, CA 90069 COAT & SHOES PROVIDED BY: Thomas Wylde www.thomaswylde.com BRA TOP PROVIDED BY: Tylynn Nyguyen Inland Venice www.inlandvenice.com PANTS PROVIDED BY: Alice and Olivia www.saksfifthavenue.com BRACELET PROVIDED BY: AV Max Bangle Set www.avmaxnyc.com

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Today, reality TV has officially taken over. When “Fresh Prince” ended its course, America began its reality obsession with “Laguna Beach” and “The Hills.”

And after a series of reality shows broke viewing records, in January of 2014, E! introduced us to our latest obsession, “The Rich Kids of Beverly Hills.”

The show follows a group of rich (we’re talking millionaire-and-billionaire-kind-of-rich) and beautiful friends including Dorothy Wang, EJ Johnson, Jonny Drubel, Brendan Fitzpatrick and the token blond bombshell, Morgan Stewart, as they navigate life in their 20’s in that infamous zip code of theirs.

While the show is appealing for its millions of viewers who didn’t grow up with this extravagant lifestyle, growing up rich in Beverly Hills didn’t feel abnormal for Stewart. “I went to school, hung out with my friends and went to the movies. Nothing was really that crazy,” Stewart says. Now that she’s on the show she gets recognized more, but the transition to fame was fairly easy for her. She’s doing the same types of things she’s always done—she’s living life up, and it’s highly enjoyable to watch. Her bubbly personality and firecracker wit made her a perfect candidate for reality TV. “I’ve pretty much had the same personality since I was born,” she adds. It didn’t change for the camera.

Stewart and her friends, despite the money they were born into, are all business-minded individuals who strive to make something of their own lives. There’s more to them than just being rich. When their squad was approached by a producer who thought they’d be great for a show, they jumped at the chance.

“We went in and pitched an idea and a few months later we had a show on the air. If it’s meant to go, it happens rather quickly,” explains Stewart. “We were all really excited. We didn’t know what the title was going to be at first so that was definitely an adjustment. We were just being ourselves. We didn’t realize it was going to be portrayed as ‘rich kids of

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Beverly Hills,’ but that’s just what we were giving off without trying, and that’s what the network ended up seeing so we just went with it. It was definitely a bit of a shock at first but it’s turned out for the best.”

Being thrust into the limelight has been entertaining to watch for viewers, but trying at times for Stewart and her crew. Having finished their fourth season this summer, we’ve been treated to 35 episodes of their squabbles, their new friendships, and their swanky vacations. Although some of Stewart’s friendships with castmates didn’t make it through every season. Stewart says, “Mine and Dorothy’s friendship has been pushed to the absolute limit and we’ve been able to come out of it even stronger.

I think everyone just assumes that reality TV breaks people up, but that’s not always the case. We’re all pretty much closer than ever—all of us.”

The limelight also came with advantages beyond closer friendships. Using the show as a platform, Stewart has been able to catapult mental health awareness into the homes of millions of viewers.

Growing up she saw first hand the effects mental health issues can have on a family when her brother was diagnosed with schizophrenia at 19. Getting involved with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) program helped her learn to cope with the hard truths of mental illness and she now helps raise awareness by hosting events that aim to shatter the stereotype associated with the sickness. “It was important for me to finally feel informed and be able to talk about my brother without any shame or embarrassment,” says Stewart. “They really help families cope with the hard truths about mental illness as well as being as informed as they can.”

Her husband, Fitzpatrick, is a successful businessman in his own right and Stewart knew he was the one early on. “On our third date I just knew he was going to be my husband and that my mom was going to like him,” Stewart recounts. “When you

Blush Dress - APPAREL PROVIDED BY: Jason Wu, www.saksfifthavenue.com | SHOES PROVIDED BY: Morgan Stewart | Christian Louboutin, us.christianlouboutin.com | BRACELET PROVIDED BY: Charles Albert, www.charlesalbert.com | EARRINGS PROVIDED BY: Tara Hirshberg, www.tarahirshberg.com | Black bodysuit/white fur coat - APPAREL PROVIDED BY: A.L.C, www.saksfifthavenue.com | SHOES PROVIDED BY: Morgan Stewart | Christian Louboutin, us.christianlouboutin.com | BRACELET PROVIDED BY: A.V. Max, www.avmaxnyc.com

Growing up in the 90s we had “The Fresh Prince of BelAir,” following the fictional lives of Will, Carlton, and the rest of the Banks family. We were intrigued by their crazy antics, their upper-class lifestyle, and, who are we kidding, that theme song. Perhaps for us millennials that’s some of the reason we have such a fixation, even now as adults, with the lives of the rich and famous.

Navy ball gown - APPAREL PROVIDED BY: MacDuggal, www.macduggal.com | BRACELET PROVIDED BY: Charles Albert, www.charlesalbert.com | EARRINGS PROVIDED BY: Tara Hirshberg, www.tarahirshberg.com | NECKLACE PROVIDED BY: Liv Haley, www. livhaley.com | White Ruffle dress | APPAREL PROVIDED BY: Thomas Wylde, www.thomaswylde.com | SHOES PROVIDED BY: Morgan Stewart | Christian Louboutin, us.christianlouboutin.com | BRACELET PROVIDED BY: AV Max Bangle Set, www.avmaxnyc.com

“We were just being ourselves. We didn’t realize it was going to be portrayed as ‘rich kids of Beverly Hills,’ but that’s just what we were giving off without trying, and that’s what the network ended up seeing, so we just went with it.”

—Morgan Stewart

Touché

Her Touché Los Angeles x Morgan Stewart collaboration features fashion forward activewear ranging from $62 to $230. Expect to see much more from her with Touché!

Social Diva

She’s very active on Snapchat, follow her @boobssandloubss and on Instagram at @boobsandloubs.

Native Knowledge The bomber jacket from her line with Touché is called the “Brendan,” lovingly named after her hubby!

Rapid Fire Questions

Go-to cocktail?

Margarita Favorite swear word?

“Fuck” Best prank?

Toothpaste in Oreos!

Go-to Louboutin?

Pigalle 120mm Favorite restaurant?

Madeo in Beverly Hills Who are you listening to right now?

Drake (always)

LOCALE MAGAZINE | 43

“Believe in yourself as much as possible, even if it’s hard.

You just have to keep going.” —Morgan Stewart

APPAREL PROVIDED BY: Tylynn Nyguyen Inland Venice www.inlandvenice.com ACCESSORIES PROVIDED BY: Charles Albert www.charlesalbert.com

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know, you know. I knew because nothing is awkward and nothing seems impossible with him.”

And that even includes planning a wedding on TV together.

“It was definitely stressful. Looking back now I can’t believe how stressful it actually was. I got wrapped up in having a real wedding, but then we were also filming up until the very last second. It was beautiful in the end, but I can’t believe we managed to pull it off,” she admits. Surviving the well-publicized rough patch before the wedding just made them stronger. “I think most couples have that. You start to fight about every little thing and then you have the wedding, it’s beautiful, it feels like five minutes and then you’re married and it’s all exactly the way it was before.”

Now with some downtime between seasons it’s back to living life as normal for the newlyweds. Fitzpatrick is tending to his luxury real estate business, while Stewart is working on collaborations with brands like Touché Los Angeles designing fashion forward workout apparel, as well as exploring literary plans such as that book. (Her plans for a “tell-all” book about previous sexual escapades caused quite the scene and audience reaction when she brought it up on the show, which made it clear to Stewart that it was something that needed to be made.)

She plans to continue with her popular blog Boobs & Loubs as well. “I’ll always keep that going. It’s completely run by me so it goes in different stages. When I’m feeling really inspired the blog gets a lot of love, and when I’m not feeling inspired I just don’t pay attention to it. That’s why the audience likes it— it’s the real thing, it’s me. It’s not run by 15 different interns. It’s still very much my little baby.”

The reason Stewart is so popular is that her fans identify with her sense of strength. She’s the ringleader and the— surprisingly relatable—diva. She says what’s on her mind.

Yes, she’s spunky and dramatic, but she realizes she’s on television—she realizes she’s entertainment. “There’s one side of me that gets shown more on the show. It’s the side that’s extremely neurotic. I definitely get very crazy sometimes, but I’m also mellow and concerned about other people. I’m sensitive and down to earth,” she explains. She doesn’t feel a need to watch herself on the show. “I’m not on television for myself, I’m on television for other people and hopefully some people get enjoyment out of that.”

Dealing with the haters that are inevitable with reality TV, she tries not to let them get to her. “People only show their hate via Instagram commenting. Some of them get a little overwhelming, but they’re all coming from people you don’t know, who you’re never going to meet, and you just have to remind yourself that these people wouldn’t say half of what they’re posting online to your face. So just ignore it.”

And that’s what she does. She accepts and moves on. She is who she is. “It’s important for people to be themselves and follow what they want to do. Everyone needs to focus on their own path and what they want to do and not try to find a reason not to do it. Believe in yourself as much as possible, even if it’s hard. You just have to keep going.”

LOCALE MAGAZINE | 45

“There’s one side of me that gets shown more on the show.

It’s the side that’s extremely neurotic. I definitely get very crazy sometimes, but I’m also mellow and concerned about other people. I’m sensitive and down to earth.”

—Morgan Stewart

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APPAREL PROVIDED BY: Tylynn Nyguyen, Inland Venice www.inlandvenice.com BRACELET PROVIDED BY: A.V. Max www.avmaxnyc.com

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STYLE/BEAUTY

UP STUNNING &

These Los Angeles Brands Aim to Make Their Mark

WRITTEN BY: SIERRA EVERETT PHOTOGRAPHED BY: BRADLEY BLACKBURN

1

Dear Los Angeles, if you haven’t heard of these up and coming brands around town before, you certainly will. Sagebrush Board Bags, Youthquake Revolution, Boho Upcycle, The Created Co. and Sage the Label are all locals ready to take on LA’s design scene. If you consider yourself a trend-setter, read on to learn more about where you can find the season’s must-have creations before anyone else does.

1 YOUTHQUAKE REVOLUTION youthquakerevolution.com > Kelsey Spiroff is the force leading the revolution with her designs. Youthquake Revolution features jewelry pieces that cause the spirit to awaken and passions to flourish for all things natural and unique. Using real stones and a variety of metals in her designs, Kelsey encourages buyers to feel intouch with the elements of this earth.

2 THE CREATED CO. thecreated.co > It’s no surprise that LA moves fast. Between work, school and sidehustles, it’s extremely easy to indulge yourself so far into the stress of the daily world that you forget to take a moment to appreciate the beautiful life that you truly have.

The Created Co.’s quality designs acknowledge that sometimes life’s most meaningful moments happen around a cup of coffee. Not only do their designs awaken the adventurer in you, each purchase helps give clean water to those in need through The Created Co.’s partner, charity: water.

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3 BOHO UPCYCLE bohoupcycle.com > Krissy Arora’s knack for vintage design will cause your heart to skip a beat when you lay your eyes on one of her custom creations. Krissy takes recycled furniture pieces and reinvents them by upcycling them and giving them a bohemian feel. Krissy draws design inspiration from the aesthetic of her parent’s cultures of India and Guatemala. Annie Sloan’s decorative Chalk Paint is used by Krissy to paint her creations and is also available to purchase at the Boho Upcycle store located in Los Angeles.

4 SAGEBRUSH BOARD BAGS sagebrushbags.com > Sagebrush Board Bags are handcrafted right here in Southern California by Anna Ehrgott and made to handle all of life’s adventures. Anna uses coffee bean sacks from an organic, fair trade coffee roaster to ensure that the brand remains entirely environmentally conscious.

The concept of Sagebrush Board Bags was created from necessity as Anna personally uses them to prevent damages to her board during even the most spontaneous of surf trips.

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5 SAGE THE LABEL sagethelabel.com > For the free thinkers and the wild hearts, finally there is a line to captivate your rebel soul. Locally designed in Los Angeles, Sage the Label features designs that encourage women to embrace their individuality through its feminine design aesthetic.

From beach babe to city girl, you’ll find the pieces you need to effortlessly romp around LA county from day to night.

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“I REALIZED HOW IMPACTFUL YOGA COULD BE IN THE MENTAL HEALTH WORLD, WHICH IS REALLY MY PRACTICE.”—AERIAL LYNN

SANTA MONICA PIER 200 Santa Monica Pier, Suite A Santa Monica, CA 90401

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ALL APPAREL PROVIDED BY: Onzie www.onzie.com

BEAUTY EXPERT

POSE-ITIVITY

AERIAL LYNN Inspires Others with Yoga and Words of Positivity

WRITTEN BY: MELISSA MITCHELL PHOTOGRAPHED BY: TRAVIS MCCOY

THE EXPER T

AERIAL LYNN Registered Yoga Teacher.

Meditation Guide. Social Media Influencer.

Aerial’s Soul Mates: Her dog and husband

When Aerial moved to Los Angeles to pursue graduate school and created her Instagram account in an effort to meet locals, she had no idea how influential she’d become. As a registered yoga teacher and meditation guide with a background in clinical psychology, Aerial has combined her spiritual passions and expertise in an effort to best serve those with mental health needs. Her online following continues to rapidly increase and her fans have grown to love and take comfort in her exquisite photographs, comforting words, and spiritual web presence. We can’t wait to see what the future has in store for Aerial, but right now we’ll revel in this glorious present that she’s created for us. Namaste.

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Q : W H AT L E D YO U D O W N T H E YO G A PAT H ? H O W D I D YO U G E T I N TO I T ?

Aerial Lynn: Actually, for most of my life, I

was a runner. I attended a few yoga classes in college, once a month or so, just to help

SANTA MONICA PIER 200 Santa Monica Pier, Suite A Santa Monica, CA 90401

“ON SOCIAL MEDIA, PEOPLE TEND TO PORTRAY LIFE AS ABSOLUTELY PERFECT AND WORRY-FREE BUT, FOR ME, I LIKE TO CONVEY THAT IT’S OKAY TO BE STRUGGLING.”—AERIAL LYNN

destress during finals, etc. I heard about the benefits of yoga and figured I might

as well try it… but I couldn’t do anything. I

couldn’t touch my toes, I couldn’t stretch— being a runner and flexible doesn’t go

hand-in-hand! At the time I was working as a mental health worker at a children’s hospital in a psychiatric unit and had an encounter with a child who was having

a difficult time. I ended up teaching her some yoga and breathing techniques

and about 30 minutes later she was like a different person. I realized how impactful

yoga could be in the mental health world, which is really my practice. Everything

sprung from there! I immediately began taking the steps to become a yoga

instructor and 2.5 years later, here I am!

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Q: How did you learn about the practice of yoga? Discuss your expertise.

AL: I practice vinyasa flow yoga and also practice and teach meditation. I’m presently in graduate school studying clinical psychology, which is where I began learning about mindfulness and meditation. I loved the practice so much I dove into some independent research on the subject and began practicing meditation on my own. Now, I love guiding meditations and incorporating them into my yoga teachings.

Q: How does yoga fit into your daily life?

AL: I would say my yoga practice is about 3-4 times a week. I work in other fitness classes inbetween and have some days where I just rest and don’t do any physical activity. Personally, I find that I perform better when I take days of rest. Then, when I come back to my practice, I feel so much better. Other than yoga, I like to incorporate pilates and am trying to integrate cardio into my schedule once a week.

Q: Can you describe vinyasa flow yoga for our readers?

AL: The most important aspect of vinyasa flow yoga is breathing. It is focusing on moving with your breath. You’re either taking an inhale or an exhale, and the goal is to slow your breath.

Often times, we breathe so fast and don’t pay attention to our breathing. Vinyasa flow gives us the opportunity to take control of our breath and practice mindful breathing.

Q: As an expert yogini, share some of the benefits of yoga for our readers.

AL: For me personally, the obvious physical benefits are increased flexibility and strength.

Mentally, I’ve found yoga to be a practice for your life. It’s a spiritual practice and it encourages me to always aim to be the best version of myself, both physically and mentally.

It’s also de-stressing and there are so many benefits to the breathing. Yoga really helps you achieve the highest quality of breath in your everyday life.

Q: How do you incorporate meditation into your teaching?

AL: All of what I say during my meditations comes straight from the heart. I always try to make sure that my yoga teachings are a physical meditation. Yes, I’m teaching yoga, but I’m also saying what I would say during a guided meditation, because I like making my teaching spiritual.

Q: Your quotes and words are so inspirational. How has your experience been growing such a large following and sharing your journey with others?

AL: It’s been really great! Its funny because the original reason I created my Instagram was to meet people when I first moved to LA. I thought it would be a great way to form connections with other like-minded individuals. I ended up

PHOTOSHOOT LOCATIONS: SANTA MONICA PIER 200 Santa Monica Pier, Suite A Santa Monica, CA 90401 VENICE BEACH BOARDWALK Ocean Front Walk Los Angeles, CA 90291 RUNYON CANYON PARK 2000 N Fuller Ave Los Angeles, CA 90046

“I JUST KNOW I WANT TO HELP OTHERS AND WANT TO BE A POSITIVE HUMAN BEING IN PEOPLE’S LIVES. HOWEVER THAT NEEDS TO HAPPEN, I TRUST IT WILL HAPPEN.”—AERIAL LYNN

LONG-TIME YOGI? If you’re thinking Aerial’s been downward dogging for decades, you’ll be surprised to know that it was only about 2.5 years ago that she discovered her passion for yoga and began the steps toward becoming a certified yoga instructor. It’s never too late to find your life’s passion, people!

MEDITATION 101

receiving a lot of positive feedback and realized that it’s a great platform for me to express who I am. I started opening up more and have found that the more I’ve opened up, others were willing to open up as well. On social media, people tend to portray life as absolutely perfect and worry-free but, for me, I like to convey that it’s okay to be struggling. Those are the things we forget to talk about and it makes me grateful to emit some sort of hope or change in someone’s life, even if it’s just one person.

Q: Favorite hobbies/pastimes when you’re not downward dogging?

AL: I like being with friends and hanging out with my dog, who is the love of my life and my soul mate…aside from my husband! But honestly, my dog, Luna, and I are attached at

the hip! I adopted her about a year and a half ago when she was around six years old.

Q: What’s on the spiritual horizon for you?

AL: Anyone who knows me knows that I’m a goal-oriented person, but a lot has changed since yoga came into my life. I used to look into the future and now I feel much more present and believe that whatever is supposed to happen, will. Basically, I know the message that I want to share and convey to others, but I’m not entirely sure how that’s going to happen. I just know I want to help others and want to be a positive human being in people’s lives. However that needs to happen, I trust it will happen. Also, I’m certain that yoga will always be in my future.

Thinking of exploring meditation/ mindfulness? Aerial recommends that beginners begin by setting aside a few minutes each day to find silence.

If you want to delve deeper into the practice, check out some books by author Thich Nhat Hanh.

NATIVE KNOWLEDGE Before moving to LA, Aerial received her Registered Yoga Teacher certification at Prana Yoga Center in La Jolla, San Diego. At present, she teaches private, public and special event classes in the LA area.

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A L L T H AT G L I T T E R S I S

G O H I G H - FA S H I O N W I T H T H E S E D I A M O N D S I N T H E B U F F

PHOTOGRAPHED BY: BRADLEY BLACKBURN STYLED BY: REBECCA ARAOZ HAIR BY: SONIA RESHETNIKOVA Â MAKEUP BY: BRI OROZCO MODEL: OLIVIA JORDAN OF NEWMARK MODELS, newmarkmodels.com

54 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

OLIVIA JORDAN

FORMER MISS USA 2015

PESAVENTO ACCESSORIES PROVIDED BY: Traditional Jewelers www.traditionaljewelers.com

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WATCHES PROVIDED BY: Rolex Boutique by Baron & Leeds at South Coast Plaza

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PESAVENTO ACCESSORIES PROVIDED BY: Traditional Jewelers www.traditionaljewelers.com

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ACCESSORIES PROVIDED BY: Swiss Watch Gallery & Fine Jewelers The Shops at Mission Viejo www.swisswatchgallery.com

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STYLE/BEAUTY

LET’S GET

FADED

Horse & Carriage Hospitality’s Barbershop Lounge WRITTEN BY: JODY MILLER PHOTOGRAPHED BY: EMMA MCINTYRE

What goes together like a horse and carriage? The city’s most dynamic hospitality team and the next generation in men’s grooming, of course. In a location that once housed an iconic Sunset Strip nightclub, Like a Gentlemen is the brainchild of powerhouse hospitality group Horse & Carriage. Consisting of Sylvain Bitton, J.T. Torregiani and David Jarrett, men behind the legendary Les Deux and current night spot darling Warwick LA, Like a Gentlemen will bring an unprecedented level of service, style and cheeky sophistication to the world of barbering.

Utilizing the ingenious talents of the Horse & Carriage design team and the magic touch of celebrity stylist Mikey Caputo, Like a Gentlemen is envisioned to be “the most inviting, luxury barber experience possible,” says Bitton. “It’s not just about getting a haircut or a beard trim,” he continues, “It’s more than that.

We want to create a lifestyle.”

This lifestyle begins the moment you step inside.

Customers are greeted by what they like to call their Lead Gentleman who will act as a personal concierge. Need restaurant reservations? No problem. How about a personal introduction? Anything is possible at Like a Gentleman, and as Bitton puts it “I like to say ‘yes’ 99 percent of the time.”

They’ll even remember your

name the next time you come in, and a personal invitation to Warwick is within the realm of possibility. The only thing missing is your outfit waiting for your night out.

A mix of Parisian splendor and art deco glamour, the design team has spared nothing, especially imagination, to exceed the ordinary. Waiting lounge literature ranges from coffee table art to vintage Playboy. Sip refreshing infused water before indulging in one of the signature services like the Hot Towel Shave. This includes a steamed lilac-scented towel, stress relieving face massage, followed by an expert close shave. All conducted in a custom-built vintage barber chair using product from boutique grooming brands like Byrd and Baxter.

Stroll on back to the “friends of ours” wall and browse a specially curated collection of shoes and clothing by partner company The Grand Voyage.

The restroom, or “Le Pissoir,” is stocked with the toiletries you would find at a high-end spa, as well as bottles of exclusive Creed fragrances. Go straight from the salon to a night out without having to return home or to your hotel.

NATIVE KNOWLEDGE

Ò Like a Gentleman is not the first former night club Horse & Carriage Hospitality have transformed.

Club Lingerie, whose name is synonymous with the Los Angeles music scene in the 80s and 90s, is now home to Warwick. It can only be described as the most architecturally striking night spot in the city. Ò Mikey Caputo may be LA’s stylist to the stars, but the prices at Like a Gentleman are surprisingly down to earth.

PRICE LIST: Ò Cut - $50 Ò Buzz - $25 Ò Straight Razor Shave - $45 Ò Clean Up - $20 Ò Beard Trim - $20 Ò Cut and Shave – $80 Ò Style - $25

LIKE A GENTLEMAN BARBERSHOP 8919 Sunset Boulevard West Hollywood, CA 90069 424.335.0553 64 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

Ò Long Layered Cut - $60 Ò Shampoo and Condition - $15

THAT'S WHAT SHE SAID

lets get to the

point!

APPAREL PROVIDED BY: No Rest for Bridget, www.norestforbridget.com

Satisfy Your Taste Buds and Shopping Fix at The Point

WRITTEN BY: JODY MILLER PHOTOGRAPHED BY: ADAM GENTRY HAIR & MAKEUP BY: DEVON DUFF MODEL: TAYE HANSBERRY

PHOTOSHOOT LOCATION: THE POINT 850 S. Sepulveda Blvd El Segundo, CA 90245 310.414.5280 www.thepointsb.com

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APPAREL PROVIDED BY: No Rest for Bridget www.norestforbridget.com

Get Yo Yoga On PrAna offers free yoga classes every Monday, Thursday and Saturday from 9 to 10 a.m. all year long!

Snap a Pic This mural was made by Portraits of Hope, which is an organization that aims to use public art as an enrichment activity for kids and adults facing serious illness. You can spot their colorful works of art across the nation!

5 Cocktails to Have at The Point - Three Hour Tour at Craft Shack - High Rise at Hopdoddy - Apricot Limonata at North Italia - Airmail at Superba Food+Bread - Farmers Market Sangria at True Foods Kitchen

One of the most precious of these options is how today’s woman expresses herself—urban sophisticated, bohemian princess, young trendsetter, jet-setting career woman, or active wife and mother.

The Point in El Segundo is where every woman can find everything she needs to TAYE HANSBERRY OF STUFF SHE LIKES www.stuffshelikes.net @tayehansberry 68 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

be her best self. As the premier openair lifestyle shopping experience in the breezy South Bay, The Point is home to international, regional, and local brands that give shoppers exactly what they want: style, variety, and community in a surrounding of relaxed luxury.

APPAREL PROVIDED BY: The Point, www.thepointsb.com

MODERN WOMEN HAVE CHOICES.

Indulge in a specialty libation, then choose a bread to take home.

KENDRA SCOTT

www.kendrascott.com

APPAREL AND BAG PROVIDED BY: Planet Blue, www.shopplanetblue.com

Ò Every outfit needs the right accessory, and every woman will be won over at Kendra Scott. Inspired by experiences, travel, community, and the unrivaled splendor found in nature, Kendra Scott designs are a passport to distinctive artistry and beauty. For fall, the look is the magnificence of American nature captured in natural stone. Refinement is achieved when set against unique metals in an artisanal blend of color and texture. They also feature a Color Bar where you take the design to a more personal level, customized wedding palettes, and special charity events. Kendra Scott is a dedicated philanthropist and these events give back 20 percent on all purchases to charity.

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SUPERBA FOOD+BREAD www.superbafoodandbread.com

Ò Food + Art + Community. That is the Superba Food+Bread lifestyle.

Equal parts bakery, café, and urban park, it’s all about sharing what is truly good in life. For a casual breakfast, try the Chia Seed Pudding or the Cheesy Eggs on Toast. Brunch options include Smoked Trout, Superba Grain Bowl, and Prosciutto Tartine. Sink your teeth into a Hippie Burger or Spice Charred Mary’s Chicken. Larger plate options include Smoky Lamb Ribs and Pan roasted Seabass. Indulge in a specialty libation, then choose a bread to take home. Daily happy hour and a special kid’s menu mean Superba really is for everyone.

KIT AND ACE PLANET BLUE

www.shopplanetblue.com

Ò Boho goddesses of the world rejoice, Planet Blue is here! Originally a small boutique of organic clothing, Planet Blue has blossomed into an international retailer dedicated to a beachy bohemian aesthetic. Featuring designers from across the globe in addition to the house Blue Life brand, you’ll find intriguing maxi dress for day or night, lace bell bottoms, vintage inspired looks like 90s floral dresses and iconic 70s wrap dresses. You must take a look at the stylist body jewelry and chokers, and what boho would be caught dead without earrings and bracelets? The Blue Life swimwear and cover-ups are simply to die for, and woven beach totes will keep you fashionable on a resort vacation.

www.kitandace.com/us/en

Ò Looks without limits is what Kit and Ace is all about. Minimalist, revolutionary lifestyle clothing for women and men, Kit and Ace will redefine how you wear clothes. Imagine a day at the office in a dress or pants as comfortable as weekend loungewear or as flexible as active wear with the sophistication and quality of the best contemporary brands. Forget stiff, immobile career wear of yore, these pieces move with you in fabric so soft and pliable you’ll want to keep wearing them after a long day. Get ready for fall with the 100 percent cashmere Newbury Scarf or dress up their best-selling Official Dress with a silver Pin Love cuff bracelet or dramatic Waldorf necklace.

The intimates and swimwear are designed for visual impact and unrestricted movement.

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CLOTHING & SHOES PROVIDED BY: Soul Cycle www.soul-cycle.com

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PRANA

www.prana.com

Ò Your journey continues at PrAna. Sustainable clothing that reflects a free-spirited lifestyle, PrAna designs are based on experiences. Yogi, climbing, adventure, discovery—The clothes may play hard, but they always look good. All materials are manufactured by factories that adhere to the strictest of global standards for safety and efficiency. Recycled wool, organic cotton, hemp, repurposed down, and even recycled polyester are utilized to maintain environmental values.

Along with efficiency comes humanity, fair trade, and traceability.

Once inside PrAna, you’ll find irresistibly fashioned clothing and accessories for work and play, men and women.

The Gemma Sweater and Diva Skirt will become your daily staples, while the selection of coats and jackets may take you places far away. Come in and explore. Your style trip is waiting.

5

SOULCYCLE

www.soul-cycle.com

Ò With all the amazing places here at The Point, it should come as no surprise to also find the rock star of cycling studios. SoulCycle takes your workout to an inspiring new level. Fitness may not be easy, but SoulCycle lets your spirit soar as you climb, jog, sprint, and dance through previously held limits with a 45-minute high-intensity workout. Fat-burning cardio, hand weights, and rockin’ choreography have been added to amp things up. Add to the mix motivational instructors, candlelight, and soaring music and you have the recipe for a mind-blowing, body altering experience.

When you feel ready to challenge yourself further, their SoulSurvivor and SoulChallenge classes stretch your boundaries. Even teens get their own class. Not sure if you are ready to take the plunge?

Your first class is free with no purchase required.

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Made from scratch every day, including some extraordinary cocktails.

9

NO REST FOR BRIDGET www.norestforbridget.com

Ò Fashion and affordability never take a rest at No Rest for Bridget. A favorite new stop for the fashionista on the hunt for the latest looks with a timeless twist. With successful outlets on both coasts, No Rest for Bridget has gained a reputation as the go-to store when in need for a new look on a moment’s notice. Work, weekend, hot date, or all night party looks can be had with styles that combine trend and practicality. An inventory that never takes a break from beautiful, you’ll find dresses for day or night, pants, jackets, accessories, shoes, bags, and even beauty and makeup. We love the Ashton Velvet Block Heel shoe paired with Wrap Front Maxi or Selena Cold Shoulder Blouse for the perfect transitional fall look. Shop now, rest later.

7

NORTH ITALIA

APPAREL PROVIDED BY: The Point, www.thepointsb.com

www.northitaliarestaurant.com

Ò North Italia is a love letter to Italy—a place that’ll make you feel like you’ve stepped off a charming side street to discover a culinary gem. After a decade in business, they have learned a thing or two and now approach perfection in the art of handmade pasta and pizza. North turns a modern lens on traditional Italian cooking. Every day, North Italia starts from scratch to create dishes like Strozzapreti with Bloomsdale spinach or supple ribbons of tagliatelle for the Bolognese. North’s pizza is a revelation: an airy, barely chewy center embraced by a perfectly crisp crust. With the spirit of the Italian taverna, North is the place to talk shop over a cocktail or swap stories sharing delectable chef creations. Open for lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch.

8

HOPDODDY

www.hopdoddy.com

Ò Getting hungry? Good, because The Point has options. Hungry boys and girls head straight to Hopdoddy Craft Burgers & Beer.

Beef comes only from humanely raised cows and is hormone and antibiotic free, ground inhouse daily. Buns are made from scratch and Kennebec potatoes are used for the hand-cut fries. Salads are made from organic greens, and there is a vegan burger option. Real ice cream shakes with flavors such as Red Velvet Cake and Nutella & Chocolate Pretzel are beyond decadent. Artisanal brews and cocktails make Hopdoddy the perfect place to meet friends for happy hour or a late night get together.

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SMITTEN ICE CREAM www.smittenicecream.com

Ò Shopping can work up an appetite, so recharge your batteries with pure, unadulterated goodness with an ice cream from Smitten Ice Cream.

Untarnished and untainted, every bite is like the 4th of July. There’s a berry crisp sundae and even a vegan pop with coconut milk. Pack your favorite flavors in a handmade waffle cone or waffle cone bowl, and then pour on the Strawberry Prosecco or decadent TCHO Chocolate sauce. Toasted almonds, oatmeal cookie crumble, and organic whipped cream top off the masterpiece. Current seasonal flavors include creme fraiche with pear caramel, and earl grey with milk chocolate chips. All organic, all natural, all delicious.

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PHOTO BY: Joe Magnani & Jared Schlachet of JSquared Photography

go /do

NOV.

2016

74 JOHN TERZIAN The Man Behind LA’s Hottest Venues

76 DO PROFILE Remodeled Life, Remodeled Madhouse

80 SANTA CATALINA ISLAND COMPANY The Top 5 Island Activities

76

DO PROFILE The Evolution of Jeff Beacher

THE HOLLYWOOD ROOSEVELT HOTEL BEACHER’S MADHOUSE 7000 Hollywood Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90028 323.785.3036 www.beachersmadhouse.com

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NOVEMBER 2016

GO/DO

NIGHT IN SHINING ARMOR A Leader in Los Angeles Nightlife WRITTEN BY: BLAKE PINTO PHOTOGRAPHED BY: TRAVIS MCCOY

John got his start into the marketing and entertainment world as a recruiter for USC football players. After walking on and realizing he may not have a role on the field, he used his networking talents to help the team in a different way.

“The good news is I basically became known as kind of their go-to for recruiting,” Terzian says. “I would take them out to all these different spots in LA that may not be doing well to help promote them, and I started to realize that I loved it.”

Terzian says his entire life’s background has revolved around art, and has utilized his creativeness to, as he puts it, “create great spaces.” Along with co-founder Brian Toll they have created a plethora of “great spaces” all around Los Angeles and internationally.

But it wasn’t always easy, especially in the beginning.

“I would say when we started, the competition was kind of psychotic,” Terzian says. “It helped us develop our niche, there’s room for everyone if you stick with what your thing is. But it was crazy competition and it still is.”

Terzian and the h.wood Group have carved out a reputation for having some creative clubs, like Bootsy Bellows, a 60s themed throwback, as well as a knack for hosting some of the most exclusive clientele.

Terzian didn’t care to go into specifics about the celebrities they’ve hosted, but take a trip to the theatre and you’ll most likely be watching someone who has frequented their venues.

Nowadays, Terzian continues to stay true to what has taken him so far. Keep your friends close, and your regulars closer.

PHOTOSHOOT LOCATION: THE NICE GUY 401 North La Cienega Blvd West Hollywood, CA 900488 310.360.9500 | www.theniceguyla.com JOHN TERZIAN: CO-FOUNDER, THE H.WOOD GROUP @hwoodgroup | www.hwoodgroup.com 74 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

T E R Z I A N C O N T I N U E S TO S TAY T R U E TO W H AT H A S TA K E N H I M S O FA R . K E E P YO U R F R I E N D S C LO S E , A N D YO U R R E G U L A R S C LO S E R .”

“I JUST WANT TO MAKE PEOPLE HAPPY.” —JEFF BEACHER

THE HOLLYWOOD ROOSEVELT HOTEL BEACHER’S MADHOUSE 7000 Hollywood Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90028 323.785.3036 www.beachersmadhouse.com @jeffbeacher 76 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

DO PROF ILE

THE EVOLUTION OF

JEFF BEACHER AFTER LOSING OVER 200 POUNDS, COMEDIAN JEFF BEACHER LAUNCHES THE NEXT VERSION OF HIS INFAMOUS MADHOUSE

WRITTEN BY: DAMON GONZALEZ PHOTOGRAPHED BY: JOE MAGNANI & JARED SCHLACHET

Jeff Beacher is the guy who made a name for himself by being the youngest headliner in the history of Las Vegas with his own show at Hard Rock, beginning in December 2003.

Not to mention, he has sold out an 81-city tour for two-and-half years and sold over 5 million tickets in 14 years of the show being open. He sat down with us to discuss this incredible journey of success, personal struggles, and the mad world of show business.

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To maintain a more balanced lifestyle, Jeff has stepped down as president of Beacher’s Madhouse—turning over the day-to-day operations to Head Little Person Donny Davis. Still, Beacher remains heavily involved, serving as chairman with his main priority focusing inward.

Although Jeff was enjoying tremendous success, he wasn’t taking care of himself and was severely unhappy. He tried to make himself feel better by overeating, binge drinking and gambling. In Oct. 2014, weighing 400 pounds, Jeff was at an all-time low. “Looking over the balcony and wanting to jump,” he remembers. “I was at critical mass, I wanted to kill myself. Thank God I didn’t.” Luckily, Jeff’s friends staged a “fat intervention.” Jeff credits Britney Spears’ manager, Larry Rudolph and Larry’s Fiance and Xcycle CEO Jen Barnett as his biggest influencers during this difficult time. “I needed to make a change or I’d be dead,” he said.

“NOWHERE COMPARES TO LOS ANGELES.” —JEFF BEACHER

The self-described “reformed douchebag,” Jeff made an enormous spiritual and physical transformation. Today, he reflects on his journey with a sense of calm and clarity.

Growing up on Long Island, Jeff was popular, but, being adopted left him with feelings of abandonment. “It’s something most people don’t understand,” he said. Most of his life he was insecure and, in many ways, his insecurities are what drove his success. The “serial entrepreneur” ran several businesses before diving into the world of comedy and performance art. By the age of 17, he sold t-shirts in high school, worked as a nightclub and concert promoter and ran a lucrative flower company. Now, he is CEO of Beacher Media Group, which focuses on consulting and entertainment relations.

That was enough for Jeff, but not for his mom. She had a different vision. While sick with cancer she asked, “When am I going to see you on TV?” The following week Jeff started to do stand-up comedy.

He soon began producing and hosting nightly comedy shows. By summer of 2002, he was selling out shows at Madison Square Garden’s Paramount Theater and the Supper Club on Broadway.

When Jeff’s mom passed, he continued to press on with comedy in LA, and with the encouragement of his friend Jeff Pollack (co-

78 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

creator, writer, and producer of The Fresh Prince of Bel Air), he took his show to the Hard Rock Hotel in Las Vegas for five successful years. And in 2010, he signed a five-year, $25 million deal to open Beacher’s Madhouse at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel.

He went to a “vegan camp” and began a journey of getting mentally and spiritually healthy. Beacher lost a remarkable 225 pounds, and later opted for gastric sleeve surgery, which decreased the size of his stomach. As he began to feel more secure in himself, the weight continued to come off. He works every day at self improvement and he suggests that anyone suffering addiction ask for the help they need. “You have to ask for help,” Beacher says. “You cannot do it yourself.” Jeff is grateful for his friends and steady support system. He wouldn’t trade them for any of the material objects he is fortunate enough to enjoy.

Sitting poolside at his estate in Beverly Hills down the block from his idol and buddy Brett Ratner’s and next door to Jay Leno, Jeff appears to be living his best life. Of all the cities he has visited over the course of his career, he says, “There’s nowhere [that] compares to Los Angeles.” From riding with the top down in one of his classic convertibles to riding his bike and running on UCLA’s track to dining at LA’s tastiest restaurants, he loves this city and all it has to offer. Although Jeff is eating much healthier, he can still enjoy a good meal. You can find him dining at Craig’s at least five nights a week, he says.

Through the outrageous shenanigans at the Madhouse and now through speaking openly about his personal triumphs, Jeff continues his work of uplifting and inspiring others. His goal: “I just want to make people happy and healthy.”

л

ver the years, Beacher’s Madhouse evolved from a comedy show to a vaudeville revue to the wildest party in Los Angeles, frequented by the likes of Mick Jagger and other celebrities.

The remodeled Beacher’s Madhouse at The Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel reopened in September. Drinks poured by dwarfs, anythinggoes performances, audience interaction, goats, and monkeys are the norm. Beacher describes the Madhouse as a party for the people, made by the people. “It’s a haven for self-expression,” says Beacher. His motto? “As long as no one gets hurt, nothing is off limits.” Acts like Tiny Kiss, a three “little person” Kiss cover band backed by a 300-pound female lead singer resulted in the show’s popularity.

KEYS TO IMPROVEMENT: Jeff says everyone can work to improve their health and lifestyle: “Focus on [the] mind, body and soul, meditation, yoga. You need to be in right mind set.”

STAR STRUCK: “Thousands of celebrities have passed through the doors. Every one of them is memorable…in a good way. I never had to throw anyone out for bad behavior (laughs). It’s about having the fun. I want my guests to leave feeling like they had the best night ever.”

GO/DO

CATALINA DREAMIN’ Explore Life Outdoors on Catalina Island WRITTEN BY: BLAKE PINTO PHOTOGRAPHED BY: AMANDA PROUDFIT

Catalina Island is a breath of fresh air just 26 miles off the coast of bustling Southern California.

There are a few options for getting there, including a ride that’s about an hour long on the Catalina Express

or Catalina Flyer. Or, arrive in style on a helicopter via Island Express Helicopters. At only 22 miles long and eight miles wide, don’t let the quaint size fool you; there is plenty to do once you get there.

WHAT TO DO, ISLAND STYLE Top 5 Activities on Catalina Island Zip Line Eco Tour: Zip through the air at more than 30 mph while enjoying the beautiful scenery that Descanso Canyon offers.

Descanso Beach Club: Put a drink in your hand and your feet in the sand! This beautiful beach club is the perfect spot to kick back and relax under a private cabana or comfortable chaise lounge Ocean Runner Tour: Boat with 500 horsepower that is also used by the Navy Seals? Check! Get up close and personal for a chance to see dolphins?

Check! Nuff’ said.

Hiking/Camping: If you have the time, and

SANTA CATALINA ISLAND COMPANY www.visitcatalinaisland.com 877.778.8322

80 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

the willpower, try hiking the Trans-Catalina trail for the most serene encounters with the interior of the island.

The trail stretches 37.2 miles from the Renton Mine Trailhead on the East End to Starlight Beach on the West End, but even a couple miles are well worth it.

Camping available in Avalon at Hermit Gulch, along the way, and in Two Harbors.

Catalina Falconry Experience: If you’ve ever wanted to hold a bird of prey on your glove and “be the falconer,” this is your chance! Get up close to nature’s swiftest predator and take a lesson on how to hold and call a hawk to the glove.

PHOTO BY: Emma McIntyre

home

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84 HOME EXPERT Your Favorite Real Estate Professionals in Los Angeles Open Up With LOCALE Magazine

96 ROOM AND BOARD Room & Board Shares Suggestions for a Holiday-Perfect Home

99 HOME/AWAY GUIDE How to Decorate, Dine and Discover This Holiday Season

112 THE BICYCLE HOTEL AND CASINO The Bike Packs Plenty of Excitement and Luxurious Amenities to Make it the Top Gambling and Resort Destination in the City

114 HOME PROFILE Jonathan Adler’s Creative Journey Shines Through His Design

118 ESCAPE: JAPAN 7 Days in Japan, Countless Things to Do

124 AWAY FEATURE

128 SETTING THE TABLE Be Our Guest

Kick Back and Relax With These Tips For Your Next Getaway

128 SETTING THE TABLE Enjoy This Holiday Dinner With a View

THE RITZ-CARLTON, LOS ANGELES 900 Olympic Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90015 213.743.8800 www.ritzcarlton.com

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NOVEMBER 2016

HOME EXPERT

REAL ESTATE JAMES HARRIS RACHEL EZRA

MAURICIO UMANSKY

Brought to You By

84 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

R O YA LT Y LAURA CHAVERS

JOSH ALTMAN

Los Angeles’ Leading Real Estate Professionals WRITTEN BY: VICTORIA RAMIREZ PHOTOGRAPHED BY: SEAN DREWS AND GIL COPE

Los Angeles is a hunting ground for real estate professionals from the busy and bustling city to the relaxing and scenic views of the beach. From Beverly Hills to Manhattan Beach, any one of these successful real estate professionals are more than capable to track down your perfect home. While these professionals are geared for work, they do enjoy the finer things of life—family, friends, sports, travel. There is not a doubt that Rachel Ezra, Laura Chavers, James Harris, Mauricio Umansky and Josh Altman will provide nothing less than fivestar service and assurance that each one of them will guide you through the emotional rollercoaster that is buying a home. See how each of these agents you voted for in LOCALE Magazine’s “Favorite Real Estate Professional” Wells Fargo poll is making strides in LA’s real estate scene.

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JOSH A LT M A N Co-Founder of The Altman Brothers and Real Estate Agent at Douglas Elliman M ANTRA: “I treat my clients’ money like it is my own money.”

HERE’S THE KICKER Josh grew up in Newton, Massachusetts, and attended Syracuse University where he was the kicker on the football team.

IT’S YOUR MOVE In Josh’s new book, he offers aspiring entrepreneurs and established professionals tips and insights to help them outsmart the competition.

SMART HOUSE “The views are intense; they are some of the most incredible ones that I have seen yet,” Altman said. “Everything is completely done to the nines and completely tricked out with technology.”

-7,300 square feet -5 bedrooms -5 bathrooms $17.9 Million

thejoshaltman.com thealtmanbrothers.com Instagram: @thejoshaltman

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Q: How did you come into this profession? Has real estate always been your passion?

Josh Altman: When I first moved out to Los Angeles, I started working in a mailroom for a music management company and every time I would get a paycheck, I would take one of the successful managers of the company out to dinner so that I could learn from them. After speaking to many of them, I found that the common denominator was that they were all making extra money on the side from real estate. Hearing about this piqued my interest and I thought well, maybe I can do this too, so over the next year and a half I saved about $5,000 and my brother did the same and together we bought a $400,000 condo.

Every paycheck that we got we put some of it towards fixing up the condo and three months later we ended up flipping the condo for $600,000. The rest is history, but that is originally how I got into real estate by hearing about it and then flipping the condo with my brother.

Q: What does a typical day look like?

JA: I start off my day by going to the gym at about 6:30 a.m. and afterwards, I’ll spend about an hour every morning on the computer on the MLS just checking out any new property that has come out or sold within the past 24 hours. I typically show about six to eight houses a day and spend about two and a half hours twice a week filming my show “Million Dollar Listing”. About once a week I’ll go to a speaking engagement and talk about how realtors can build up their businesses and become more successful.

Q: How do you balance your personal life with your business and a reality television show? Does this experience positively or negatively impact your business?

JA: The reality show in general, has been very beneficial for me. It is a lot of work and people don’t realize that we film for 10 months a year and that it is almost like having a second job; however, the show has been very good for business and serves as a platform so that our listings get more attention. As for personal life, I work with my brother and I even met my wife on the show, she is also an amazing real estate agent so it is a great dynamic. The only drawback is that sometimes when you surround yourself with people who work with you, you tend to talk a lot about business, so just finding that balance is crucial and not letting business overshadow your relationships. Thankfully, I have gotten better at it and I write a lot about this balance in my book, “It’s Your Move.”

Q: How do you know if people will be receptive or willing to buy certain houses that you and your company takes on?

JA: There is always a buyer for a house, it is just about finding that right buyer. You can’t just look at a house and think about what you think it is worth or if someone else is going to think it is cool because your perspective of it can be completely different to that of someone else. We treat every listing as if it were our own home; no matter what it looks like, what its price range is or whether it is a $500,000 condo or a $150 million home. We always

“I don’t mind risks because I love a good deal and it excites me. At the end of the day I take risks that make sense and that I feel confident in.”

—Josh Altman

remember that this is somebody’s home that we are dealing with and that a majority of the time it is going to be the biggest investment that they are ever going to make so we have to make sure that everything that we do is 100 percent.

Q: Where do you draw the line in taking risks when flipping houses?

JA: My book, “It’s Your Move,” is my million dollar methods for taking risks with confidence and succeeding in both work and life. I take a lot of confident risks and I, along with my business, have done fairly well. So far we have flipped two dozen houses and recently we have done very well on many of them. I don’t mind risks because I love a good deal and it excites me. At the end of the day I take risks that make sense and that I feel confident in.

Q: What is the most challenging part of selling these luxury homes? What is the highlight of it?

JA: The most challenging part for me is delegating responsibility because I am a perfectionist. My brother and I sold about $100 million worth of real estate before we even went out and hired an assistant because we always liked to do everything ourselves. There is only so much of us to go around. It was something that was a bit of a struggle for us, to take some of our responsibilities off of our shoulders and to place our trust into others to do the job that we love doing so much and hold them to our standards. We’ve gotten better at it, currently, we have an incredibly well-trained team of about 10 people who we trust to do a job well done and successfully represent the Altman Brothers’ name. The highlight of my job is getting the chance to see some of the most beautiful homes in the world and we are lucky enough to be selling in an area like Beverly Hills where there are amazing homes, unique architecture, and incredible styles. Additionally, there is the added pleasure of being able to drive along with my clients who are the wealthiest and most interesting people in the world. It is very rewarding to interact one on one with them and to learn from people who are at the top of their game in so many diverse industries. One of my favorite things is listening to their stories and how they achieved what they have.

Q: What is your highest professional achievement? Do you have any other higher aspirations?

JA: My highest professional achievement was last year when we sold about $1 million worth of real estate a day for the entire year. A goal that I have is to be the best father that I can be. My wife is pregnant with a girl so it is going to be my job to spoil her as much as possible.

Q: Where would you settle down or travel to?

JA: Well, I travel all around the world doing speaking engagements so I get to experience a lot of cool places for a short period of time. However, at the end of the day, I think that I live in the greatest place in the world, which is Los Angeles. Driving up and down Beverly Drive every morning as I head to work and seeing the beautiful palm trees and the Beverly Hills hotel is just stunning; it is an amazing town and there is no other place in the world that I would rather be.

Q: What does your dream house look like and where is it located?

JA: I would say that my dream house would be the listing that I currently have in the Doheny Estates. It is a $17 million home standing at about 8,300 square feet. It is a brand new modern home with beautiful views, 14 foot ceilings, and completely tricked out with technology.

Q: Can you give me some highlights about the home we are photographing? What sets this house apart from the others?

JA: The home is located in Trousdale Estates and is on the market for $17 million dollars. It is a beautiful 7,300 square foot, one story brand new modern home. The views are intense; they are some of the most incredible ones that I have seen yet. Everything is completely done to the nines and completely tricked out with technology.

My favorite part of the house is the automatic closing doors; when you walk in you press a button and every single door in the house opens up to create a great indoor-outdoor flow. When both sides of the house are opened up, it transforms into your typical California dream type of house because you are living inside and outside and there are no walls because they all open up.

PHOTOSHOOT LOCATION: 1535 Carla Ridge, Beverly Hills, CA 90210

“We always remember that this is somebody’s home that we are dealing with and that a majority of the time it is going to be the biggest investment that they are ever going to make so we have to make sure that everything that we do is 100 percent.”

—Josh Altman

PHOTOGRAPHED BY: SEAN DREWS

LOCALE MAGAZINE | 87

LAURA CHAVERS Real Estate Agent at Vista Sotheby’s International Realty

M ANTRA: “It is healthier to be with people than behind a computer.”

PRESCRIBE THAT As a graduate of Purdue University, School of Pharmacy, Laura began her career with a pharmacy in Indiana.

MANHATTAN BEACH LOCAL Laura enjoys swimming, sailing, surfing, and walking her dog on the Strand.

MANHATTAN BEACH HAVEN -3,934 square feet -5 bedrooms -5 bathrooms $15 Million

laurachavers.com sothebysrealty.com BRE# 01974888

Q: How did you get into real estate?

Laura Chavers: I got my real estate license about a year and a half ago; however, I have been active in the developing side of real estate since 2001. I was first exposed to it in 1998 when I bought my first home which I then sold three years later. I kept this process going for a while, but then I, along with a few colleagues of mine, started a development company and we did a project here in Manhattan Beach and in Monterey. Since then, I have done some more real estate development—there is a property in Maui that is for sale that I worked on.

Q: What is the most challenging part of selling a residential property?

LC: The most challenging part is how emotional it can get. It is usually the younger couples who get their hopes up and with the way that the market is now, if they don’t get it they can get frustrated. But then it can go the other way, a client that I have right now is the opposite, they are optimistic and have their sights set on getting the perfect house for them. The highlight of this job is when you get a message from your clients after they have moved in and want to show you what they have done to the place and the overall excitement that they have at starting a new life. The reward for me is how happy they are when they move in or when they finish renovations and send me a picture or invite me over to see the end result.

Q: What advice would you give to anyone looking to switch careers and try their hand at real estate?

LC: My advice would be that you have to understand that for this job you have to be self-motivated, determined, and overall do not take anything too personally. This business is very competitive because there are a large and diverse amount of agents.

Q: How was the career change going from pharmacist to real estate agent?

LC: I have always wanted to help people and both of these jobs do that but in different ways. As a pharmacist I helped save lives; there would be times where someone who wasn’t supposed to make it out of the hospital would go home. Those moments would be amazing, but often they were outweighed by the amount of people who unfortunately did not receive the same results. As a real estate agent, I’m still helping people but I am in a more

positive and happy environment. Working as a real estate agent is great because I am helping people to find a house that they are going eventually start a family in and live out the rest of their lives. It is a rewarding feeling to be a part of their beginning of a new chapter.

Q: What areas or types of properties are starting to become more trendy or are a good investment?

LC: Beach property is always a good investment for those who like the open air and open floor plan with the pocket doors that enable an indoor and outdoor living area. I have also had clients who have taken a liking to properties up on the hill in Palos Verdes. From what I have seen, the mid-century modern design and layout of houses has been extremely popular in part because the indoor outdoor living style is ideal due to the great weather that we get have year-round.

Q: What pastimes do you partake in? How are you involved with the community?

LC: My husband and I like to take our dog, Skyrocket, hiking up in the mountains to avoid the beach when it becomes crowded. I enjoy all types of water activities including scuba diving, paddle boarding, sailing, and swimming. Skyrocket enjoys the water just as much as my husband and I and will occasionally just stop and watch the waves. I enjoy supporting multiple causes whether it be humanitarian missions, going to local fundraisers and bidding on silent auctions, working with Habitat for Humanity to build homes, and even donating to the Humane Society or local shelters to help dogs. For the humanitarian missions, I sponsor two boys, one in Peru and the other in Mexico, and it is very rewarding to know that although we may be in different countries, any support at all can make a big difference in their lives.

Q: Where would you settle down or travel to?

LC: Since I am from Indiana, I would have to say settle down in Manhattan Beach because that is where I am at now and where I wanted to be when I graduated college.

I love travelling, it is a passion of mine. I have been to 49 states out of the 50 here in the United States, Alaska is the only state that I have yet to travel to. I have been to six continents, I haven’t quite made it to Antarctica yet, and I have visited 33 countries. I would have to say that my all-time favorite trip was to the Maldives.

PHOTOSHOOT LOCATION: 3416 The Strand, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266

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“For this job you have to be self-motivated, determined, and overall do not take anything too personally. This business is very competitive because there are a large and diverse amount of agents.” —Laura Chavers

“Working as a real estate agent is great because I am helping people to find a house that they are going eventually start a family in and live out the rest of their lives. It is a rewarding feeling to be a part of their beginning of a new chapter.” —Laura Chavers

PHOTOGRAPHED BY: SEAN DREWS

LOCALE MAGAZINE | 89

MAURICIO UMANSKY Founder, CEO, and Real Estate Agent at The Agency M ANTRA: “No assholes and we like to have fun.”

HIGH PROFILE SALE Mauricio sold the infamous 29-room Playboy Mansion in January for $100 million.

BALANCING ACT With his daughters and his realty star wife, Kyle Richards, Mauricio has learned to balance work with time for the ladies in his life.

90210 “What this house has to offer is tremendous beauty and the interior design of the house flows very well,” Umansky says.

-11,000 square feet -5 bedrooms -7.5 baths $35 Million

theagencyre.com/ agent/mauricioumansky Twitter: @mauricioumansky BRE# 1222825

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Q: How did you come into real estate?

Mauricio Umansky: I got into real estate about 20 years ago, it was something that I was very passionate about especially since I love the architecture, the interior design, and the art of the deal. It’s not where I started though—my first career was working for my father in the clothing business selling textiles. [He] taught me how to fight for every penny, which I brought over with me into the real estate business, and I think that it has helped me tremendously in terms of my negotiating skills over the years.

Q: What does a typical day look like for you?

MU: Well, I don’t have a typical day because everyday varies tremendously. I think that I’ve been the number one agent in California for four to five years in a row, and in order to do that I have to maintain my sales, so I think I did $600 million worth of sales last year, and the year before that $450 million worth of sales.

So, to keep up these sales I go to multiple listings and showings every week; I love to show properties because I think that that is the only way to understand the buyers, sellers, trends, and the market as a whole. I am also the CEO of The Agency so that entails a lot of relator support which means I help them land listings and sell their properties. Another role that I have as the CEO is to continuously be thinking about innovation and I think because of that, The Agency is the leader of innovation and we are the ones who started changing the way real estate is thought of.

I always say that two aspects of the culture of The Agency is that number one, we don’t accept any assholes and number two, we like to have fun. Another part of my week is growing The Agency so we are in the process of opening up more offices, one in Pacific Palisades, Calabasas, San Francisco, Palm Springs, Punta Mita, and Turks and Caicos in the next four to five months.

Another part of my job is that I am a supporting reality star to my wife in the “Real Housewives of Beverly Hills”, so every once in awhile during the week I will have to run out and film a quick scene at home and support my wife. Of course, I am also a father and a husband so that’s a full time job as well.

Q: What is the most challenging part of selling real estate? What is the highlight of it?

MU: The biggest challenge that I have is balancing time.

Time is the largest challenge because I have to make sure that I support the numbers that I have always had, in terms of sales. I love the deals, so I never want to go backwards in sales. It is just a matter of setting enough time aside for family and my business. The highlight of selling real estate is the art of the deal. It is the competitiveness; people are motivated by a lot of things.

There are people who are motivated by fear, the fear of not having enough money to take care of their family and there are so many great motivators. There are also people who are motivated by money or greed, which I think is the worst motivator. I happen to be motivated by being

“I happen to be motivated by being competitive, I need to be number one, I don’t know how to be number two.”

—Mauricio Umansky

competitive, I need to be number one, I don’t know how to be number two.

Q: What is your greatest professional achievement yet?

MU: I don’t think that I have achieved my greatest professional achievement yet, I think I’m still waiting to achieve it. I have a lot of dreams, I really want to create a brand that symbolizes and recreates what real estate should be and not of how it has become. I think that we, as a brand, should work collaboratively and not competitively against each other. I believe that people should help each other and not try to fight each other, I believe collaboration is the key to success and that one tide raises all boats.

Q: What future goals do you wish to achieve?

MU: As an individual and salesperson, I achieved my goal of being number one in California. I firmly believe that you are only as good as your last year because you have to start over and do it all again so if you believe that you have achieved your greatest goal, then I believe that you start going backwards. So, as a sales agent, for me it’s going to have to be staying at the top every year and never falling off. The professional goal that I have as CEO of The Agency is to build a brand that is globally recognized and stands for great moral values and that does great business.

Q: What are three qualities that you believe are essential for success in this industry?

MU: Number one is your motivator. Whatever is your motivator you need to be motivated and never be satisfied because once you’re satisfied you go back. Number two is knowledge, you need to have tremendous knowledge.

Whenever you run into someone you need to be prepared to answer any particular question about real estate regarding your market, you must know your stuff you cannot B.S. it or life in general. Number three is having no fear of rejection. Unless you ask the question to somebody, you really have no idea what that person is going to say. Oftentimes, agents from other companies justify to themselves why they shouldn’t make the call, but you can come up with several reasons as to why not to make the call; my point is, don’t try to predetermine what the future is and just make the call to ask the question.

Q: What pastimes do you partake in? Are you involved in the community or any charities?

MU: The luxury of time is what means everything to me.

One of the reasons why I work so hard is so that I can have that luxury. I love to play golf, snow ski, and hang out with my kids. We used to be more involved in a lot more charities, but one of the things that my wife and I realized is that if we spread ourselves too thin, then we don’t give enough to one particular cause and make as great of a difference. About three years ago, we decided to narrow our focus to make a bigger impact. My wife and I support Children’s Hospital, I spent the first six years of my life in and out of the hospital with a blood disease, and so giving back to something that is very important to me is everything.

Q: You and some of your fellow real estate agents from your company have appeared on “Million Dollar Listing”, how do you think the show has impacted your business?

MU: I think that the show has impacted the business in a very good fashion, James and David are amazing guys and very knowledgeable and ethical. Anytime you can get your brand on television, it is marketing whether it is for ourselves individually, or for the company as a whole, and I think that we all win.

Q: If you could, where would you travel to or settle down?

MU: Well, I have traveled all my life and another one of my motivators is to work hard so that I have the opportunity to travel. There are a few places that I haven’t travelled to, but I enjoy skiing and golfing so wherever those two hobbies take me is where I am going to be.

Q: What does your dream home look like and where is it located?

MU: I like to own multiple homes and I love to travel, so my dream home is one that is extremely homey that my kids love and never want to leave. I could say that where I am at now is my dream home, it is beautiful and in a great location.

PHOTOSHOOT LOCATION: 9719 Heather Rd, Beverly Hills, CA 90210

“At The Agency, we partner with Give Back Homes so at the end of every closing, every agent gives a gift to Give Back Homes and we build homes with the organization.”

—Mauricio Umansky

PHOTOGRAPHED BY: GIL COPE

LOCALE MAGAZINE | 91

JAMES H A R R I S Co-Founder of Bond Street Partners and Real Estate Agent at The Agency M ANTRA: “Treat others as you would like to be treated.”

WEST COAST CALLING James grew up in London, England and moved to Los Angeles to pursue real estate and enjoy the Southern California sun.

GIVING BACK A firm believer in giving back to the community, Harris is heavily involved in various humanitarian causes including the Jewish Federation Community.

THE HILLS “One of the home’s shining features is that it has gorgeous views from the master bedroom, an open living plan, and just a really cool Hollywood Hills vibe to it,” Harris says.

-7,130 square feet -6 bedrooms -8 full bathrooms -2 half bathrooms $8.4 Million

bondstreetpartners. com theagencyre.com/ agent/james-harris Twitter: @jamesbondst BRE# 01909801

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Q: How did you come into this profession? Has it always been your passion?

James Harris: It has always been my passion since I was about seven years old. My mother was an interior designer and I always used to take great passion in seeing the homes that she furnished and decorated. We viewed houses a lot and my passion for real estate grew so it made sense that when it came time to start my career that it would be in real estate.

Q: How was the transition going from a residential investment agent in the United Kingdom to a cofounder of an elite real estate agency in Los Angeles?

JH: It was very different; the way real estate was transacted in London was very different to how it is done in the United States. Real estate in the U.S. is a very highly regarded profession because you are dealing with very elite people, especially in Los Angeles. We are in a very exciting market in Los Angeles, but it was a fairly easy transition and I adjusted very quickly.

Q: Considering all of the people that you have encountered in your field, what personal attributes do you believe are essential for success?

JH: I believe that hard work, creativity, thinking outside of the box, relationships, loyalty to clients, working in an ethical manner, and working harder than everybody else to achieve the best results are essential qualities for achieving the ultimate success.

Q: What do you find to be the most challenging part of your job? What do you consider to be the highlight of it?

JH: For me the most challenging part of my job is time management because I am a husband and a father of two children and real estate is an extremely demanding business. Time management, although it is the hardest thing to maintain, it is essential to make sure that you have enough time to dedicate to your family, your wife, your children, but also making sure that you service your clients in a professional manner at all times. The highlight of my job, hands down, is working with the clients that we get to work with and getting to see the incredible properties that we get to handle. I think the most incredible thing about this business is that we get to learn something new every single day and that we get to learn from some of the most brilliant people in the world, which for me is truly a gift.

and high-net worth clientele and we have received numerous accolades including being ranked in The Wall Street Journal’s top agent list several years in a row.

However, being able to share our professional and our personal lives on Bravo’s show Million Dollar Listing is an experience we never envisioned for ourselves when we started working in this business. Seeing the progression in our careers and for me, watching my children grow up, and having this all captured on film for me and my family to look back on has been absolutely incredible. I think my ultimate goal is to expand the brand and being a part of The Agency is so special because we are working with such a brilliant and forward thinking company.

My business partner, David Parnes, and my goal is to continue growing our business and to become the best.

Q: What pastimes do you partake in?

JH: I love to play tennis, go fishing, and spend time with my family.

Q: What does your dream house look like and where is it located?

JH: My dream house is located in Holmby Hills and it is extremely private at around 10,000 square feet. It is not too big and not too small, but just the perfect size for my family at six bedrooms. I would have the home be transitional home art deco but modern and it would be very homey, warm, and family friendly.

Q: What is one thing that you would change or improve about the real estate industry?

JH: I think I would improve transparency between all parties. I wish that in this business people would be more transparent and that we could have a level of business where we could work with one another and not question whether someone was telling the truth.

Q: Can you give me some highlights about this house and what sets it apart from others?

JH: A compound sale in the Hollywood Hills, it is a turnkey property so that the buyer can come by with a check and basically move in. You can buy the home right down to the utensils and it is an easy solution for someone wanting to move in right away. It is a very modern home; however, it is family-friendly. One of the home’s shining features is that it has gorgeous views from the master bedroom, an open living plan, and just a really cool Hollywood Hills vibe to it.

Q: What is the highest professional achievement that you have yet? Do you have any higher career aspirations or goals that you look forward to achieving?

JH: We have had the honor of working with our celebrity

PHOTOSHOOT LOCATION: 7801 Hillside Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046

“I think the most incredible thing about this business is that we get to learn something new every single day and that we get to learn from some of the most brilliant people in the world, which for me is truly a gift.”

—James Harris

“We viewed houses a lot and my passion for real estate grew so it made sense that when it came time to start my career that it would be in real estate.” —James Harris

PHOTOGRAPHED BY: SEAN DREWS

LOCALE MAGAZINE | 93

RACHEL E Z R A Real Estate Agent at Vista Sotheby’s International Realty M ANTRA: “No one ever made it working from 9 to 5.”

MOM LIFE When Rachel isn’t hustling real estate, she loves to spend time with her husband and kids.

ACROSS THE GLOBE Rachel has the itch to travel to New Zealand and island hop in Greece!

THE STRAND -3,081 square feet -3 bedrooms -3.5 bathrooms $7.3 Million

rachelezra.com sothebysrealty.com BRE# 01396863

Q: How did you come into real estate?

Rachel Ezra: I was initially in commercial real estate because I was fascinated with the large, complex buildings and the high rises and I thought to myself, “This would be an amazing job and I could really see myself doing this.” I was always fascinated with real estate, but more specifically the architectural aspect of it.

I have been in real estate for about 14 to 15 years now.

Q: What is the most challenging part of your job? What is the highlight of it?

RE: The most challenging aspect of my job is that it is a very emotional process. Most of the sellers are emotionally attached to these homes whether it is a divorce, a death in the family, or just saying goodbye to old memories. It’s an emotional process that you have to approach sensitively and compassionately. Sometimes it is difficult to find a home that matches what the client really wants or needs; however, when I do find the perfect match for my clients, it is the most rewarding part of my job. It is extremely gratifying to me when I find that particular property that a client is in love with, closes with, and truly makes it their home where they will create a lifetime of memories. The highlight is seeing the look on people’s faces when you give them the key and you tell them that they are now the proud owner of this home. I think that this is so important because for many of my clients this is the biggest purchase and investment that they will make in their lifetime and it is satisfying to know that you helped them to achieve this milestone.

Q: You were voted one of the best real estate agents in California, what do you think is your edge over other agents?

RE: We are in the “please and thank you” business so you have to give good service and your whole self because that is what the client is expecting and paying you for. If you fail to do this, then you are not doing your job and you are being unfair to the client. So, I think that being true to myself, honest, and really listening to my clients and putting their needs before my own are my best qualities as a real estate agent.

Q: What three things do you believe are essential in order to be successful at this job?

RE: I believe that tenacity, perseverance, and a good work ethic and willingness to work hard are the most important qualities to have in order to flourish in this line of work.

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Q: What is your greatest professional achievement yet?

RE: I have sold homes on The Strand, which is very fulfilling and gratifying on its own, but I would have to say that my greatest professional achievement, currently, is when I was the top producer at my previous company.

I just switched over to Vista Sotheby’s so I can’t say that I am top producer yet, but I hope to work my way up there.

Besides that, I would also say that being consistently at the top of my game and providing the best service that I can is an accomplishment worth noting as well.

Q: How do you hope to impact the real estate industry and leave behind your legacy?

RE: I feel as if there has been a major shift of focus from catering to the client to anticipating the paycheck. I want the real estate community to be more about service and less about cashing in. The industry needs to go back to the basics which are: provide good service, have good impact, and being more sincere and authentic with the clients. Ninety percent of my clients come back to me and many refer me to their friends and family. I believe that this is a testament to what the industry needs to fall back on more. As for my legacy, I would like people to say that she did her best job and that she did it successfully.

Q: In 2010, about 43 percent of commercial real estate professionals in the country were female. Six years later do you think that that number has changed?

RE: When I first went into commercial real estate, it was maybe one percent to five percent female, so the number has dramatically increased. Now, in 2016, I would say that the number is still continuing to rise because even more people are joining the business.

Q: What pastimes do you partake in?

RE: On the weekends, we mainly spend time with our kids and we will take them to museums, walk and bike along The Strand, or attend tiny pro soccer practice.

When we are not with the kids or doing work, my husband and I will have date night.

Q: Where would you like to settle down or travel to?

RE: I love where I am at right now on The Strand, the weather is always nice and the views are beautiful. This is where I work, it’s like vacation time 365 days a year. As for travelling, I want to go to New Zealand and Greece. I have been wanting to go to Greece and island hop in a yacht.

PHOTOSHOOT LOCATION: 718 The Strand, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254

“It is extremely gratifying to me when I find that particular property that a client is in love with, closes with, and truly makes it their home where they will create a lifetime of memories.”

—Rachel Ezra

“I believe that tenacity, perseverance, and a good work ethic and willingness to work hard are the most important qualities to have in order to flourish in this line of work.” —Rachel Ezra

PHOTOGRAPHED BY: SEAN DREWS

LOCALE MAGAZINE | 95

HOME/AWAY

ROOM & BOARD 8707 Washington Blvd Culver City, CA 90232 310.736.9100 www.roomandboard.com

HOME ROOM 101 A MIX OF TRADITIONAL AND MODERN

WRITTEN BY: JEANNETTE SWANSON | PHOTOGRAPHED BY: BRIAN CHAN

As we approach the holiday season we wonder how to thoughtfully incorporate holiday décor, pieces and color into our homes.

It doesn’t always have to be about the Santas, pumpkins and fall foliage.

To take a step away from the cliche, we turn to Room & Board, who sources over 90 percent of their products from about 50 family-owned companies across the United States.

The feeling of nostalgia is often translated into the home through décor, but the holidays are a time to mix traditional trends with modern decor. “It’s a great time to start looking forward and creating your

version of the holidays,” says Retail Market Manager Scott Jussila. A home can be subtly decked in traditional colors such as reds, greens and jewel tones, but this might be the year to base your décor scheme off the color white.

“For the West Coast, a white and light blue can be really special,” Scott suggests.

Items such as pillows, throws and hooks can add a fresh holiday look to the home. Holiday decorating doesn’t have to break the bank and by piggybacking off of Room & Board’s keen sense of design, we can practice frugality while adding class to our holiday decorating schemes.

“IT’S A GREAT TIME TO START LOOKING FORWARD AND CREATING YOUR VERSION OF THE HOLIDAYS.” —Retail Market Manager, Room & Board SOCO, Scott Jussila

96 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

H O L I D AY HOME ESSENTIALS Hand-blown in Minneapolis, their Luster bowl will add a subtle sparkle to your decorated holiday table.

Items such as pillows, throws and hooks can add a fresh holiday look to the home.

Gift a pair of movie or opera tickets in the Nevin waxed canvas and domestic leather foldover carrier from Connecticut.

Washable Wool Blanket made in Oregon is a cozy addition for the foot of your bed or sofa.

Multicolored Crew Hooks amp up traditional stocking hangers.

HOME PROVIDED BY: HÖM Sotheby’s International Reality, Newport Beach/Corporate Office, 1200 Newport, Center Dr Ste100, Newport Beach, CA 92660 | 949.554.1200 | www.homgroup.com

HOME/ AWAY G UIDE

(AWAY FROM HOME) WRITTEN BY: ELAINE CUTTING, NANDA DYSSOU, AND TAMARA PHILIPS PHOTOGRAPHED BY: NATASHA LEE STYLED BY: JACKIE ROSE PROPS STYLED BY: KAREN PATTERSON HAIR BY: JENNIFER MAU

OUR GUIDE TO NESTING, BEING THE PERFECT PARTY HOST AND MAKING AWAY FEEL LIKE HOME MAKEUP BY: BRIAN BOND, JULIE LAZAIRE GARNIER AND JENNIFER MAU MODELS: SOFIA VESPE, CANDICE COKE, ELISSA VILLA AND LIZ RIBOT OF BRAND MODEL AND TALENT AGENCY, www.brandtalent.net

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REAL ESTATE

RE-VAMP Trends, Tips and Tricks for a Home Makeover Finding your next home can be a daunting task. Looking into redecorating to keep up with the ever changing trends of interior design can be just as overwhelming. For those exploring the market or shaking things up on the homefront, we have created a guide with pro-tips and up-to-date trends—straight from the mouths of real estate and home décor experts.

FANTASTIC FEATURES: While it is confirmed that Justin Bieber himself has stayed at the home used in our shoot, listing agent Cedric Channels thinks that what will blow potential buyers away most are some of its features. With a unique pool area, with built in bar and kitchen

station, the home is perfect for any entertainer.

There is also a recording studio inside the house! We can already hear the next Grammy winners filling the property with their sweet melodies…

HOME PROVIDED BY: HÖM Sotheby’s International Reality Newport Beach/Corporate Office 1200 Newport Center Dr Ste100 Newport Beach, CA 92660 949.554.1200 homgroup.com Listing Agents: Cedric Channels | BRE # 02004790 Julian Channels | BRE # 01984097

The home boasts 5 bedrooms, 9 bathrooms, is 10,200 sqft, and is listed for $17,500,000.

WELCOME HOME Tanya Griffin: Owner and Interior Designer, Shaping Spaces Interiors Q: What are the latest kitchen and dining area trends for the home?

Tanya Griffin: Today’s homebuyers are looking for open kitchen and dining areas to make entertaining easy and free flowing. They are loving low maintenance kitchen finishes like quartz counters, glass backsplash and flat panel doors.

Q: And which of these trends do you see picking up or dropping off for 2017?

100 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

TG: Although gold made a comeback at the end of 2016, it definitely is hot now—especially rose gold with a mix of wood tones giving the space a warm eclectic feel.

Q: When buying a resale home, what’s the first thing you would do to create an optimal eating/living area?

TG: When buying a home with an open-plan you’re often limited without the presence of walls. So, the first thing to

do is define your areas for the appropriate scale entertaining/ living area by adding a rug that not only anchors furniture that may be floating in the room, but defines it as well, by creating an unspoken separation from the dining that’s often in the same room or very close by.

Q: How can homebuyers make a brand new home feel more “homey” without cluttering it up?

TG: We love working with new

homebuyers—their excitement is contagious and we love their energy. Quick tips that we often give to add warmth to a new home is through accents and artwork. Nothing screams a new home that’s unsettled than bare walls. Adding color through accent pillows, area rugs, lamp shades and artwork are quick and easy fixes to warm up any space and start blending your existing furnishings with new.

Shaping Spaces Interiors theshapingspacesgroup.com

HAPPY BASICS

Tips for a Happy Home from Design Pros Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams LEADER OF THE PACK Stay Cool, Add Heat in the Kitchen With Sub-Zero and Wolf Showrooms

#1

Console table with a mirror above: create a welcoming entryway—and one that makes getting out the door with your keys AND looking good easier.

#4

Great lighting: don’t underestimate the comforting power of the right lamp or chandelier, placed just where you need it.

#2

Fabulous decorative pillows: make a statement that you don’t have to feel stressed about; change with the seasons or when you redecorate.

#5

A comfy and chic sofa: you’ll spend a lot of time on it, so we suggest sink-in comfort but still tailored and supportive enough for company.

#3

An upholstered bed: so great to lean your head against when reading or watching TV and brings softness to a room often dominated by wood.

#6

A soft rug underfoot: we have many that feel great, but our Power Shag rug is something you need to experience!

HOME TREASURES

How to Add Vintage and Antique Accents in Your Home Andrea Stanford: Head of Brand & Strategic Partnerships, Everything But The House Start with something you love - one of the best ways to start integrating vintage into your new home is hunting for items related to your favorite hobby or something you enjoy collecting. EBTH’s Head of Brand & Strategic Partnerships, Andrea Stanford, is a poker player and loves to collect vintage cards. “At first, I just bought the ones I liked and we played with them—and over time I started learning about the various brands and artists.”

Start small - don’t feel intimidated by large pieces of furniture. Adding some vintage lamps or a side table can transform a room.

And every house should have some vintage rugs - we love them piled on top of new sisal or other natural rugs.

We can thank “Mad Men” and Domino Magazine for making the bar cart de rigueur! Not only are vintage bar carts a great idea, but incorporating vintage barware and bar tools completes the look.

We always say that a bookshelf isn’t complete without some vintage! Search for your favorite titles - they don’t need to be expensive first editions - just adding some books that have great covers and artwork can add so much personality to your shelves. Vintage bookends are also a fun addition.

#7

Nesting tables: we offer nesting cocktail and side styles—keeps an extra surface for drinks and snacks always at hand.

#8

A bar cart or cabinet: helps keep you organized so you’re ready for— and comfortable with—hosting.

Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams 2227 Glendale Galleria, Glendale, CA 91210 818.649.7120 242 North Beverly Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 310.691.7910 mgbwhome.com

#9

A reading nook: your favorite chair, an accent table beside it and a floor lamp does the trick.

A child’s room can be a really fun space to play with vintage. Think vintage wooden blocks, vintage toy airplanes or cars, and vintage rag dolls. They all look as great as they are fun to play with. And wall decor can personalize a space and provide your children with some fun family history grab vintage maps that highlight where your family is from - or letters or initials with family names. We also love vintage children’s books - so much more fun to read from a book that looks like it has been read for generations before!

While dining rooms are being upstaged by the all encompassing kitchen/living/eating rooms, the idea of formal dining is here to stay. Nothing is as chic as vintage silver to complete the look: think candlesticks, serving pieces and trays.

Everything But The House (EBTH) ebth.com @ebthofficial

How it Works The Four-Step Process to Everything But The House “The Call”: Setting up an estate sale can be overwhelming.

Call for a free consultation to get the ball rolling.

“The Prep”: Trained staff members organized and catalogue items that can be sold and upload a photo and its description to their website.

If something of yours is not “fit for sale”, EBTH coordinates a donation or pickup for removal.

“The Sale”: Each item is up for auction for 7 days, with the bids starting at $1. Payment, shipping, pickup and delivery are all taken care of by EBTH. “The Proceeds”: A settlement check is received in 30 days. Sales are known to be 3-5 times higher than alternatives!

The holiday season is filled with parties, memorable moments and flavors to savor all fall and winter long.

The mornings and nights sure to make an impression on you and those you love will be held in your home, and created in your kitchen. Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances are the tools to utilize when feasts are made and champagne chills before a celebratory New Year’s toast.

How can you know if Sub-Zero’s full size refrigerator or their undercounter system is right for you? Which Wolf oven will ensure your grandmother’s chocolate chip cookies will be baked to perfection each time? At the Sub-Zero and Wolf Showroom in Orange County, you are free to attend classes, demonstrations and try out each appliance for yourself—before you buy a thing.

The knowledgeable concierges at the showroom are there to answer any questions you have and stand beside you as you get hands-on with their products. With access to personal concierges, hours long appointments and thorough handson demonstrations, all that’s left for you to do is make the appointment.

Purchase their products at Ferguson Bath, Kitchen, and Lighting Gallery.

Featured In: Ferguson Bath, Kitchen, and Lighting Gallery 2600 Marine Ave Redondo Beach, CA 90278 310.219.7200 ferguson.com

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HOME SWEET SOTHEBY’S Los Angeles Luxury Real Estate

AMSTERDAM CHIC

The Unique Styles Found at Amsterdam Modern Will Ship You Straight to Holland and Back in Time Ellen LeComte, Owner, Amsterdam Modern Ellen LeComte, owner of Amsterdam Modern married a Dutchman, but she also fell in love with Amsterdam culture and style. “Dutch design is so innovative and different,” LeComte says.

“There are such unique choices and materials. It’s very different, very unusual.”

From LeComte’s love of Holland and flair for the eye-catching, Amsterdam Modern was born. A twist between a vintage furniture design store and an escape to the other side of the world, Amsterdam Modern is a truly impressive expansive warehouse full of captivating furniture, and it’s all shipped directly from Amsterdam.

“I have a lot of relationships that I’ve established over the past seven years,” says Ellen, who visits Amsterdam around five times a year to collect new pieces. “I have dealers and pickers and shows and stores that I visit…every time we go, I meet someone new and expand my horizons.”

Amsterdam Modern truly does pick up the most exciting, interesting

pieces. LeComte’s personal favorites include a multi-colored industrial metal cabinet by Wim Rietveld, and anything that involves metal, wood, and upholstery. Robert Parry is one of her favorites: “I just think it’s innovative and handsome and unique,” she says.

Of course, this industrial comfortable design is coming into style. “There’s sort of a huge craze on big fat leather 70s sofas and lounge chairs with huge patinas and unique blocky designs,” says LeComte.

Unfortunately, this rise in interest in Dutch design has raised the demand of this furniture, making them harder to come by, but that hasn’t deterred LeComte. Always with a love for the find, LeComte and Amsterdam modern have perfected the art of discovering unique, fantastic furniture. “It’s more about getting the find,” says LeComte.

“Buying the buy and being the first one to have it.”

Amsterdam Modern 134 Glendale Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026 amsterdammodern.com

Amsterdam for All It’s not only the day to day customer who loves this industrial style.

Amsterdam Modern also supplies many restaurant dining rooms around Los Angeles with thousands of rustic school chairs, all straight from Amsterdam schools like the University of Guelph. You can see Amsterdam Modern’s fantastic finds in restaurants like Ink, Beachwood Café, Google Café, State Bird Provisions and more!

Vista Sotheby’s International Realty is the quintessential globally recognized luxury real estate brand currently thriving in the Los Angeles and South Bay areas. The brand has over 19,000 sales associates representing in more than 65 countries and territories worldwide.

Representing distinctive homes allows them to artfully unite extraordinary homes with extraordinary lives in the Los Angeles area and worldwide.

Their agents seek out properties that embody the rich tapestry of varied lifestyles, distinct settings, and diverse locales.

Recently, Vista Sotheby’s International Realty was named the number one real estate brokerage represented in two of the six categories that make up the 2016 REAL Trends/The Wall Street Journal “Top Thousand.”

“We are thrilled to see that the Sotheby’s International Realty brand is continuing to build off the momentum of the 2015 record-year.

I am so proud of Vista Sotheby’s International Realty and The Edler | DeRenzis Group and Chris Adlam.”

Vista Sotheby’s International Realty 2501 N Sepulveda Blvd 2nd Floor Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 310.546.7611 vistasir.com

HO-HO-

Food Provided By: Colette’s Catering and Events www.colettesevents.com

HOSTING How to Entertain for the Holidays When we look back on the holidays, our memories are pleasantly filled with the friends and family by our side, what foods we enjoyed and where we experienced these beautiful moments. Hosting an event over the holidays can feel like an overwhelming feat—unless you have the help you need along the way. From holiday décor to making sure the smallest details count, to cocktails that will make an impression, we have you covered.

HOST WITH THE MOST

Stephanie Leese and Jason Lai: Principal Designers of L2 Interiors Q: What are the key home design features to create the ultimate ambiance for a holiday cocktail party?

Jason Lai: That would include three out of the five sensessight, smell, and hearing.

Sight—holiday accessories including vases, frames, and table accessories, color themed candy will always do the trick!

Smell—candles always sets the 104 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

mood, more than one way, but at a holiday party the sense of smell will trigger the holiday spirit, it also won’t hurt if the candle matches the decor.

Hearing—holiday music. With all three senses, your holiday party will be the hit of the century.

Q: And what are your go-to accessories to transform a dining room for entertaining?

Stephanie Leese: Our favorite

accessories for dining tables are flower arrangements. A well made center piece that is made by a florist will last you much longer.

Q: What is the best color scheme to decorate with for the holidays?

JL: The perfect color scheme to decorate for holidays is black and white then you have options with pops of colors to match the holiday.

Q: How can one tweak lighting in the home to create an inviting atmosphere?

SL: Lighting is the perfect key to set a moody atmosphere—as simple as changing the light bulb watt will transform your space.

Q: What was one thing your favorite holiday party has had that everyone should incorporate?

JL: Alcohol! Besides the obvious, the most memorable

parties as I mentioned before has the five senses- sight, smell, hearing, taste (drinks!) and touch (hugs!)

L2 Interiors 11282 Washington Blvd Suite 202D Culver City, CA 90230 310.390.6849 | l2interiors.com

Apparel Provided By: BCBGMaxazria | www.bcbg.com

THE PARTY’S HERE

10 Tips for the Perfect Outdoor Soirée from Annette Guitierrez, Owner of Potted

#1

Create an outdoor living room to further highlight your personality in another space of your home.

#4

Integrate twinkle lights into “small trees or shrubs” to bring magic to an outdoor hosting space

#2

Build around your holiday décor with succulent bowls that have pinecones or holly added for some winter cheer.

#5

Consider an arrangement of hooks with hanging planters to decorate a bare wall.

#3

Throw a few Sunbrella blankets and pillows on your outdoor furniture to create instant coziness.

#6

Use long rectangular planters filled with tall grasses or bamboo to create privacy.

SMART HOUSE

6 CROWD PLEASING COCKTAIL RECIPES William Grant & Sons’ Favorite Holiday Cocktails

1.

ANCHO REYES HOT CHOCOLATE: • 1 1/2 parts Ancho Reyes Chili Liqueur • 3 to 4 parts hot chocolate • Heavy Cream • Nutmeg

#7

Create outside of the house with a firepit that people can gather around.

#8

Consider an outdoor rug to create an instant “room” in any outdoor space.

#9

Use plants to “create the ultimate décor statement.”

2.

SAILOR & CIDER: • 1 part Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum

• 3 parts mulled cider • Cinnamon

#7 - Photo by Kolini Faagata

• Cloves

Potted 3158 Los Feliz Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90039 323.665.3801 pottedstore.com

4.

A SIMPLE PLAN

• 1 oz Glenfiddich 12 Bourbon Barrel Reserve • 1 oz Cocchi Americano • 1 oz Amaro Nonino

HOLIDAY HIGHBALL

• 1.5 oz Glenfiddich 14 Bourbon Barrel Reserve • .5 oz St George Basil Eau de Vie

• 2 dashes Cherry Bark Bitters

• .25 oz honey syrup

*Stir and strain over ice

*Pour over ice in collins glass. Basil leaf garnish.

5.

• 4 oz cold Seltzer

Philips Hue Personal Wireless Lighting meethue.com

THE RED QUEEN • 100ml 3 fl oz cranberry juice

• 80ml 2.7 fl oz Hendricks gin • 40ml St Germain, Elderflower liqueur

3.

• Juice of 1/2 lemon

• Hot coffee

• Fresh cranberries threaded on cocktail sticks to garnish

TULLAMORE DEW IRISH COFFEE

6.

Transfer the smarts from your phone to your house with new gadgets and gizmos that can adjust mood lighting levels and even colors. Meet hue

by Philips, a personal wireless lighting device that connects to your home Wi-Fi router and controlled through an app.

Who needs switches anymore? By the touch of a button all the lightbulbs in your home can be adjusted to the specific liking of a resident, labeled with their name. You can even set an alarm for when you would like the lights to turn on or off, fade in and find the perfect hue for your holiday party. So, turn on your imagination!

• 2 Sugar Cubes • 1 oz Tullamore D.E.W. Irish Whiskey • 1 Whipped cream

William Grant & Sons williamgrant.com

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PATIO TRENDS

Today’s Outdoor Living Possibilities Q: What are the most desired outdoor living features in the South Bay you hear from your clients?

Robb Stroyke: Both Hermosa and Manhattan Beach have different sections within their cities that offer distinctly different outdoor living opportunities.

In the sand sections of both Manhattan and Hermosa Beach the lots are smaller, and with minimal setbacks, and therefore neighbors live in close proximity to each other. Starting with the beach front Strand homes, one can enjoy Strand patios and upper decks with sand, white water and ocean views from each property.

These areas are ideal for BBQ’s, entertaining, reading or just relaxing. In the 100 to 300 block properties, one can enjoy front yards with beautiful landscaping, views and decks off 2nd and 3rd floors.

In Hermosa due to variances in shape and size, some of these lots also offer backyards. One distinction between the two cities, which is big when considering outdoor living space, is in Hermosa Beach one can enjoy roof decks. And on East/West running sloped lots, one can build fabulous rooftop decks with adjoining cabanas which typically offer outstanding panoramic ocean views.

Robb Stroyke, Stroyke Properties, Inc. StroykeProperties.com

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7 THEMED SWEET TREATS Decadent Dessert Stations Offered By Jay’s Catering and a Fan-Favorite From Each 1. Latin Dessert Station: Dulce de Leche Chocolate Tarts

SET THE TABLE Jay’s Catering Dishes on Hosting for the Holidays For over 40 years, Jay’s Catering has been a symbol of excellence in the industry of entertaining. Voted Best Caterer five years in a row, this company is one of the experts in the craft of catering. The vision of founders Eleanor and Jay Mastroianni grew from a converted carwash food service facility to a household name in Los Angeles and Orange County with ownership of thriving entertaining venues, over 200 employees and the newly established Ellie’s Table Cafe in Orange County.

The consistent, and recently more booming, growth of Jay’s Catering can be attributed, in part, to grandson of Jay himself—COO Armand Jay Barragan— and Sous Chef Uriel Loaeza Junior. We sat down with them to provide you with tips and tricks for the perfect holiday party. Who better to ask than one of the “Best Caterers?” Armand and Uriel Jay’s Catering 10581 Garden Grove Blvd, Garden Grove, CA 92843 714.636.6045 | jayscatering.com

shared with us that “a great holiday party is all about creating a sense of community through food and a positive atmosphere.” Therefore, when looking to host an unforgettable event, it helps to turn to someone who can help make it happen! Jay’s offers those hosting an event with everything needed to make a memorable evening—chairs and tables, beautiful décor to go with the theme of your event, and most importantly— food and beverages to make a lasting impression. Make sure that all of the details can be taken care of for you, so you can focus on hosting.

Jay’s mission statement is “bringing people to the table.” When you are looking to create a fabulous evening without the stress of trying to do it all yourself, look to a company like Jay’s that will strive to assist you with the nights you want to remember.

2. Rustic Dessert Station: Almond Croissants 3. Italian Dessert Station: Cappuccino Cream Puffs 4. Tropical Dessert Station: Piña Colada Key Lime dessert shots 5. All American Dessert Station: Mini Rocky Road Cupcakes 6. Gourmet Dessert Station: Raspberry Chocolate Decadence 7. Classic Dessert Station: French Macarons Bonus: Add a custom designed cake to your Dessert Station to further complement the theme of your event or party!

TIPS FROM THE PROS

Suggestions from Armand Barragán Chief Operating Officer, Jay’s Catering Co. & Ellie’s Table 1. The Sweeter the Better: People are ready to indulge for the holidays. An incredible dessert bar or station will make everyone happy!

2. Casual Cuisine: A thought-out food station always keeps the party moving. Also the food tastes better right from the chef!

3. Perfect Pick: Serving a fun or classic cocktail will encourage your guests to step outside the box and try something you have carefully curated for them.

BACKYARD BASH

5 Must-Haves For Your Outdoor Event 1. String Lights 2. Heat Lamps 3. Fire Pit 4. Blankets 5. Outdoor Bar

WINTER

WANDER-LAND Where to Escape for Vacations, Stay-cations and Getaways Get away during the chilly months and discover these spots that are calling your name! Whether they are near or far, somewhere familiar or somewhere new, if you are staying for long or just stopping by, check out why these are our favorites—and they just might become your new favorites, too.

W LOS ANGELES—WEST BEVERLY HILLS

ANDAZ WEST HOLLYWOOD

HOT DINNER SPOTS WP24 Whole Roasted Peking Duck LA Live TANGAROA FISH MARKET Seafood Pork Belly Risotto Culver City

IT’S IN THE BAG

NORAH Uni Butter Poached Shrimp West Hollywood

Keep Your Weekend Within Reach Los Angeles based designer Clare Vivier’s stylish bags feature classic lines with interesting details and the highest quality workmanship, making her bags true investment pieces that can be worn for many years.

Her brand, Clare V., is now globally known, and these days her designs are cherished by women of all ages, whether their style choices are laid-back and French-inspired, modern and trendy, or classically preppy. Her loyal fan base includes Jessica Alba, Katie Holmes, and Sophia Bush, to name a few A-listers.

Clare V.’s latest travel collection features luggage tags in colors like white Amalfi with black and blue splash pattern, and russet skirting with neon pink stripe. Her passport cases come in charcoal with red and royal blue stripes. And her popular weekender bag is available in salmon, camel, and periwinkle with Italian navy handles.

Clare V. clarev.com/collections/travel

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WOLF White Miso Black Cod Fairfax THE CANNIBAL The Cannibal Burger Culver City OFFICINE BRERA Pisarei e fasö Arts District THE ATTIC Shrimp Scampi Long Beach

LATE NIGHT SIPS

TAKING OFF! Vacation Destinations to Swoon Over Andaz West Hollywood

westhollywood.andaz.hyatt.com u If you are looking to spend

time in a hotel that has a long rock-and-roll legacy, check into the 14-story Andaz in West Hollywood. It had been the longterm home of Little Richard, Jim Morrison, and other rock stars, as well as the location of many film shoots. It is also where John Bonham of Led Zeppelin, then later Chris “Izzy” Cole, drove a motorcycle down the halls, and where Keith Richards of the Rolling Stones, then Keith Moon of The Who dropped a TV out of the window of his room. Please don’t follow their lead.

W Los Angeles—West Beverly Hills

wlosangeles.com u This newly renovated, luxury

boutique hotel offers a tranquil getaway in the heart of the city. Guest suites range in size between 400 square feet (the Wonderful Studio) and 1350 square feet (the Extreme Wow Suite), featuring in-room spa amenities and state-of-the-art appliances. Their Living Room Bar is a local go-to destination for VIPs looking to enjoy an electrifying DJ, sexy mood lighting, and exciting cocktails.

Mondrian Los Angeles

morganshotelgroup.com/ mondrian/mondrian-los-angeles u If you enjoy hip design

elements, gorgeous views of the city, and A-list company, you should head to the Mondrian.

After dinner at their restaurant Ivory on Sunset, head to their renowned lounge Sky Bar and take in the scene—inside and out.

The DJ will have you dancing all night and you will be glad not to have to drive anywhere after one too many Skybar Mojitos and Mondrian Margaritas.

BAR MARMONT Framboise Sauvage West Hollywood BUNGALOW SANTA MONICA Bitchin’ Sangria Santa Monica THE STRAND HOUSE Elderly Grey Leopard Manhattan Beach OLD MAN BAR Old Fashioned Venice LIBRARY BAR The Odyssey DTLA ALIBI ROOM Breaking Bad Culver City

ARRIVE HOTEL - PHOTO BY TAE KWON

HOTEL ANGELENO

Hotel Angeleno

hotelangeleno.com u The circular building of the

Hotel Angeleno is a familiar sight to commuters on the 405 freeway, as well as to savvy vacationers looking for an elegant hotel at surprisingly modest rates. Hotel Angeleno’s management believes in spoiling their guests by offering complimentary valet parking, courtesy car service, and Wi-Fi, as well as a daily wine hour. They even request Uber rides for hotel guests as needed. To top it all off, they are a gratuity free hotel, making them the perfect affordable vacation spot for visitors to Los Angeles.

Avalon Hotel

avalon-hotel.com/beverly-hills u The Avalon offers vacation

packages that will entice travelers to be adventurous.

Their Surf City package offers the ultimate Southern California experience with private surf lessons for two in Malibu, (transportation to and from included), complete with a gourmet picnic lunch box to enjoy afterward. Their Couple’s Getaway package contains a welcome bottle of Prosecco and Kelly Wearstler Compartes truffles, a Chef’s dinner tasting menu with wine pairings for two, and daily breakfast credit to be

ARRIVE HOTEL

used in either the restaurant or room service. Could it get any more romantic?

The London West Hollywood

thelondonwesthollywood.com u When looking for a hotel

that offers modern luxury in the heart of the city with amazing views and food, head to The London. The hotel has long been popular with the A-list crowd, as well as discerning West Hollywood locals, but this year they upped the ante with their Dine and Stay packages, Royal Wedding package, and rooftop sunset painting sessions hosted by international artist, Gage John Lazare.

Hotel Shangri-La

slh.com/hotels/shangri-la-santamonica u A boutique hotel with Art Deco

design, Hotel Shangri-La has 70 rooms, with some overlooking the Pacific Ocean. When staying there, you can rest assured of your low environmental impact, as the hotel is a rare winner of the Green Design 100 award due to its solar powered pool, on-site water filtration system, Natura Green toiletries, and many energy saving features.

You will also recognize the hotel from half a dozen movies from recent years.

WORKING FOR THE WEEKEND Get Away for the Weekend, Only Miles from Los Angeles GREATER PALM SPRINGS Saguaro Hotel

thesaguaro.com u Affordable luxury awaits visitors at the

Saguaro in Palm Springs. Located near downtown, this hotel features suites with city, mountain, pool, and courtyard views from their patios or balconies. Guests will enjoy swimming in the massive pool, or relaxing in the hot tubs while listening to the weekly entertainment, and dining poolside.

Daily yoga sessions make this getaway all the more enticing.

LAS VEGAS Drai’s Nightclub

DraisLV.com u Among the towering giants of The Strip is a

shiny new hotel, The Cromwell, Las Vegas’ only freestanding boutique resort and home to the nightlife hotspot,Drai’s Nightclub. Featuring the city’s first and only live, full-length nightlife concert series, Drai’s LIVE, Drai’s is known as the home of nightlife entertainment in Sin City. Boasting impeccable service and dynamic entertainment, the dazzling multilevel venue regularly hosts full concert shows by the likes of resident artists Future, Tip “T.I.” Harris, G-Eazy and many more. Revelers can also keep the party going long into the early hours of the morning at the legendary Drai’s After Hours, which is back in its original location in the basement of The Cromwell for its 17th year. A score of celebrities and high rollers have hosted their birthdays and other celebrations at Drai’s. Will you be next?

SAN DIEGO Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa

catamaranresort.com u The Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa is a

HOTEL SHANGRI-LA

Polynesian-style resort offering an affordable weekend getaway to San Diego visitors.

Just a few miles from SeaWorld and the San Diego Airport, the hotel provides plenty of entertainment for the whole family. Parents will love the seasonal Rejuvenating Noni Wraps or Pumpkin Harvest Facials, while the little ones will be excited about playing on the sandy shores of Mission Bay. Keeping with the

Polynesian theme, the hotel offers a tropical outdoor lounge setting with tiki torches and lush greenery along with plenty of sporty options including paddleboards and kayaks to take advantage of the ideal beachside location.

ORANGE COUNTY Balboa Bay Resort

meritagecollection.com/balboabayresort u Balboa Bay Resort in Newport Beach is a

favorite vacation spot and event venue for Orange County locals, as well as visitors from farther away. This luxury waterfront resort prides itself on making all your vacation dreams come true, no matter how unique your requests may be. Its location right off the freeway makes it ideal for your next long weekend getaway.

GREATER PALM SPRINGS Arrive Hotel

www.arrivehotels.com u One of the newest hotels in Palm Springs,

Arrive blends midcentury design elements with playful, modern features. The experience starts at check-in at the hotel’s bar and continues as each staff member takes on multiple roles to help guests in whatever they need at the moment. The staff also texts guests about room service, valet, and housekeeping requests.

A favorite among locals, Arrive’s casual yet friendly service appeals to millennials and mature travelers alike.

GREATER PALM SPRINGS Two Bunch Palms Spa Resort

twobunchpalms.com u Considered the go-to mineral hot spring

resort in the heart of the desert, Two Bunch Palms is set on 77 park-like acres with meditation ponds and a historic grotto fed by 600-year-old hot mineral springs. This award-winning destination Wellness Resort in Desert Hot Springs is also carbon-neutral and home to plenty of wildlife. Though you will be close to several museums, golf courses, and hiking trails, you’ll be immersed in leisurely soaks, therapeutic spa treatments and all-day programs of classes to venture off-site.

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ROAD TRIPPIN’

Top 5 Cars to Take For a Road Trip Garth Blumenthal, General Manager Fletcher Jones Mercedes 1. GLC 300 SUV

BON VOYAGE! Time to seas the day with a trip on the water with your friends! Boatbound is the largest and fastest growing “pier-to-pier” boat rental marketplace in the world.

You can offset your boat ownership costs by renting out your boat. Whether you want to rent someone else’s or give a pre-screened renter a try on your boat, you can do either! And if you’d like to sit back, relax, you can even hire a captain!

You just have to sign up and you have access to boats all around the country. And the best part is, you don’t even need any boating experience. This is the perfect way to have a luxurious holiday party on the water.

Or, if you’re up for a local adventure, have your captain take you for an overnight trip to Catalina for some kayaking and snorkeling. Keep a lookout because you may even see some whales or dolphins on your boat ride over!

Boat Bound boatbound.co

2. C450 AMG, fourdoor sedan 3. SLK 350, two-seater convertible 4. GTS AMG, luxury two-seater 5. S600 Maybach, spacious sedan Fletcher Jones Motorcars www.fjmercedes.com

STAYCATION, ALL YOU EVER WANTED Escape the Day-to-Day at a Paradise in Your Own Backyard Hotel Bel-Air

dorchestercollection.com/en/losangeles/hotel-bel-air u This historic 1950s hotel

is the perfect destination for a romantic weekend staycation. Their restaurant offers Mediterranean cuisine by Wolfgang Puck; La Prairie Spa is perfect for those looking to spoil themselves; and the hotel’s 12 acres of serene ground reminiscent of the Garden of Eden will entice you to a walk with your sweetheart. While there, admire their three resident swans in the garden pond.

Palihouse West Hollywood

palihousewesthollywood.com u If you are lucky enough

to be able to get away for a while, consider checking into Palihouse West Hollywood. This luxury long-stay property offers plenty of personality, charm, and privacy. Their rooftop Sunset Cocktail Lounge is worth checking out when in the mood for a captivating sunset with a delicious seasonal fare.

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Petit Ermitage

petitermitage.com u Petit Ermitage is a luxury all-

suite hotel noted for its amazing

art collection. Bohemians will heed the call of the hummingbirds at the sanctuary of this Moroccan-inspired hotel.

Equally popular for hosting soirees for two or 150, their various rooftop locations are also available to hotel guests looking to spend a quiet night with family and friends, making it the ideal staycation destination for anyone celebrating an important life event.

Farmer’s Daughter Hotel

farmersdaughterhotel.com u If gingham curtains, denim

duvets, and rocking chairs ignite nostalgia in your heart, you will enjoy the homey feel of the country-chic Farmer’s Daughter Hotel. Fittingly close to The Grove and the Farmers Market, this hotel offers a comfortable, relaxing spot in the midst of the city.

The Georgian Hotel

georgianhotel.com u This upscale oceanfront

hotel built in 1933 is a historic landmark easily recognized by its aqua blue color. Oozing Old Hollywood charm, The Georgian’s 84 rooms are within walking distance to some of

the best fine dining in Santa Monica, and they welcome families with pets.

Shutters on the Beach

shuttersonthebeach.com u There are few beaches as

beautiful as Santa Monica, few areas as lively as the Third Street Promenade, and even fewer hotels with service as friendly and flawless as offered at Shutters on the Beach. Each room of this hotel has a private balcony, beach inspired design, and whirlpool tubs. Add to that the three dining options offered on site—Coast, 1 Pico, and Living Room—and you will have reason to stay for a while.

The Charlie West Hollywood

thecharliehotel.com u The Charlie’s cluster of

romantic shingled cottages attract long-term visitors who enjoy having a relaxed environment reminiscent of a fairytale getaway. This hidden gem served as the residence of Marilyn Monroe, Marlene Dietrich, Gloria Swanson, and its namesake Charlie Chaplin. Will you be next in line?

PACK HEALTHY

Whole Foods Roadtrip Essentials 1. Fresh fruit 2. Dried fruit 3. Jerky: beef, turkey, bison 4. Baggie of Nuts from the bulk department 5. Pre-cut veggies with dips like ranch and hummus 6. Drinks: Iced tea, lemonade 7. Fresh baked goods 8. 365 Everyday Value Organic Granola Bars 9. Handwipes Whole Foods Market wholefoodsmarket.com

HOME/AWAY

“The Bicycle Hotel and Casino in Bell Gardens proves you don’t need to voyage to the desert to get your luxury casino fix.”

Viva LOS ANGELES THE NEW BICYCLE HOTEL AND CASINO BRINGS VEGAS CHARM TO LOS ANGELES Casinos in Los Angeles historically have been places where one can gamble without the hassle of making the fivehour road trip to Nevada. You walk in with five twenties in your pocket, sit at a crowded table as gamers nibble on sandwiches and salads, and then make the drive back home when your pockets run dry. But these casinos lack the neon-lit charm and pizazz that one can only experience when meandering through the busy sidewalks of the Las Vegas strip with a cocktail in hand and endless entertainment possibilities at every turn.

But the Bicycle Hotel and Casino in Bell Gardens proves you don’t need to voyage to the desert to get your luxury casino fix.

THE BICYCLE HOTEL AND CASINO 888 Bicycle Casino Dr Bell Gardens, CA 90201 562.806.4646 www.thebike.com 112 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

Pulling up your car to the impressive archway is a welcoming experience, where parking valets greet you and already make you feel at home before you even enter the casino’s glass doors. When inside, guests have the opportunity to head to the dozens of gaming tables placed throughout the massive complex or snacking at one of the flavorful bars or restaurants conveniently placed near every corner (Bike Brewery and Phoenix Café are must visits). What the Bike accomplishes where other LA casinos have failed, is that it feels like a

WRITTEN BY: JUSTIN SEDGWICK

true Vegas resort, with its large ceilings and wide hallways providing room for exploration. You may get lost along the way, but exploring the Bike on your own is half the fun.

The casino wasn’t designed as just a quick getaway location for LA locals who want to try their luck at Blackjack. The resort envisions itself as a luxurious destination for guests from far and abroad. The Bike succeeds in their prestigious ambitions. With world class dining options, a spa with dozens of treatment choices to leave guests feeling refreshed and invigorated, and regular entertainment offerings ranging anywhere from comedy nights to outdoor pool parties. Let’s not forget the countless Karaoke and live music performances for the music lovers.

One thing that cannot be overstated about the Bike is its convenient SoCal location. It’s just a quick 30-minute drive from The STAPLES Center pending traffic, and an hour cruise from Huntington Beach.

The San Manuel Indian Casino near San Bernardino offers more flashy slot machines reminiscent of a Vegas casino, but the Bike’s quiet yet sophisticated charm makes it the must-visit gambling and resort destination in Los Angeles.

NATIVE KNOWLEDGE: The Casino is a host of the largest poker tournaments in Southern California, like the World Series of Poker Circuit Event and World Poker Tour.

TRY YOUR LUCK ELSEWHERE: If gambling isn’t your thing, you can still enjoy a tasty evening at the Bike Brewery with its ample beer selection and food options. Plus, the bar offers different music and entertainment options from Thursday through Sunday night and a UFC Fight Night event on Nov. 12.

HOME PROFILE

A HOME DÉCOR

EMPIRE J O N AT H A N A D L E R ’ S HAPPY ACCIDENT TURNED CAREER

WRITTEN BY: ELAINE CUTTING PHOTOS COURTESY OF: JONATHAN ADLER

From eye-catching gold accents, to fun creative statement pieces, to notyour-run-of-the-mill furniture and lighting, the wonderfully creative work of Jonathan Adler is almost always recognizable. Jonathan Adler delves into a unique and eye catching world inspired entirely by his own incredible mind and hands. The company has been around for 23 years, and as Adler puts it, they’ve been adding “Modern American Glamour to your home since 1993.”

Adler’s contributions to home design shine brightly in any setting, as does his wonderfully creative personality.

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“Creativity is an auspicious undertaking and I try not to think about it too much. I keep my eyes and mind wide open.”

— J O N AT H A N A D L E R

JONATHAN ADLER FASHION ISLAND 579 Newport Center Dr Newport Beach, CA 92660 949.759.0017 www.jonathanadler.com LOCALE MAGAZINE | 115

GOOD AS GOLD: Though he doesn’t pay much attention to trends, Adler likes to fill a home with gold tones.

ADLER’S GUIDING M OT TO : “If your heirs won’t fight over it, we won’t make it.”

H

e began as a production potter in New York City. However, the roots of the designer Jonathan Adler stretch much further back. He describes his journey to complete home design as a “creative odyssey” and he wouldn’t change one step in the process.

Adler’s taste for décor began at summer camp, where he instantly took a liking for pottery class. “I wish I could say there was some indefinable force that drew me to the pottery classes at camp,” says Adler. “But the truth is that I thought the instructor was cute.” However, no matter what it was that drew Adler to the class, it became evident that pottery was something Adler was passionate about. “The moment I touched clay, there was a connection,” he recalls.

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“I’m always trying to pare things back and subtract until I get to the very essence of a line or gesture.”

—JONATHAN ADLER

From that summer camp, Adler decided to pursue this passion for pottery. He begged his parents for a pottery wheel for his Bar Mitzvah and later went on to major in semiotics and art history at Brown University. Adler began to develop his delightfully different artistic passions and view. “I’d like to think I’m successful at creating an impeccably chic foundation and adding a whisper of humor,” says Adler. “That perfect mix of chic and irreverence is what I strive for.” However, his professors didn’t quite see at the same level.

“My pottery teacher told me I had no talent and I should move to New York and become a lawyer,” Adler recalls.

Unfortunately, Adler took this advice and strayed from his passion to attempt a more “suitable” career at a talent agency. After moving to New York and being fired from multiple jobs, Adler realized the entertainment industry and the life of an employee was not for him. He needed room for his creativity, a space to create and to expand and to share his creativity with the world. So, Adler began a production pottery business.

It was grueling work. Adler made everything by hand, working as long as 12 hours a day, seven days a week, striving to make his creative ideas into realities. “The rest of my career has been a happy accident,” he says. Jonathan Adler The Pottery Company slowly began to snowball into other categories, avalanching into a complete home décor business. “I started making pillows because I found unbelievably talented weavers in Peru when I was there looking at a pottery workshop,” says Adler. “I started making furniture because I needed something to display the pillows and pottery on. I started making lighting because I couldn’t find lamps I liked, etcetera.”

Now, the name Jonathan Adler is a world renowned home design empire built on the creative mind of one man. The unique and eye-

catching designs mixed with the fun, brilliant creations of Adler strike a chord with anyone looking for something different and fun. His designs are featured all over the world, sold in millions of stores and featured in countless hotels, businesses and homes.

Although in order to keep up with the sheer mass of demand, he’s had to expand his workforce, Adler still keeps the creativity alive by working with his hands. “I’m in the pottery studio every day,” he says. “The pottery studio is on one side of my office and the kiln is on the other. I work out all my ideas behind the wheel.”

Despite all his success, Adler remains humble.

His proudest success isn’t in a fancy hotel or the design of a rich celebrity home (although he would like to give Madonna a shout out “I’d love to do Madonna’s pad—if you’re reading this, call me!” he says). Adler’s strongest success can be found in his home on Shelter Island. “It’s full of the stuff and the people I love most,” he says “and I designed every inch of it.”

So what’s next for Jonathan Adler? He’s always striving, always challenging himself and always wanting to improve. “Though some might accuse me of being a maximalist, I’m really a minimalist,” he says. “I’m always trying to pare things back and subtract until I get to the very essence of a line or gesture. Currently, I’m challenging myself to go even further into what I call “elementalism.”

Perhaps it’s a reaction to the chaos on our planet, but I’m constantly striving to express myself with evermore-simplified forms.”

For now, Adler just strives to create art and fun out of the necessities of a home and to fill a space with works that inspire conversation and light tones. His main goal: to be true to his own talent and ideas. “Creativity is an auspicious undertaking and I try not to think about it too much,” Adler says. “I keep my eyes and mind wide open.”

“I’d like to think I’m successful

at creating an impeccably chic

foundation and adding a whisper

of humor. That perfect mix of chic

and irreverence is what I strive for.”

— J O N AT H A N A D L E R

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E S CA P E : JA PA N

TAKING IN

TOKYO 7 Days in Japan’s Capital City Has Us Hungry for More

WRITTEN BY: ERIK HALE AND ERIN PRICE PHOTOGRAPHED BY: ERIK HALE

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IT WAS VERY DIFFICULT TO PICTURE JAPAN. Close your eyes tight. What do you imagine it looks like? Does a Japan from some movie you’ve watched fill your head?

Do you picture a Japan that is more hip and intellectual like “Lost in Translation” or filled with tradition like “The Last Samurai”? Do you see the fast cars and bright lights from “Tokyo Drift” or the romantic backdrop from “Memoirs of a Geisha”? Even though we knew that Hollywood does not generally excel in capturing a culture, especially not its own, we had very few other waypoints to help us decide what to expect. The best way to find out might be to clear

ARIGATO, MR. ROBOTO

your mind of expectations and step out of the plane and into Tokyo blindfolded, devoid of preconceptions, ready to

Robot Restaurant is a must visit. It is not quintessential Tokyo. It does not seem representative of the culture and it does feel like a tourist trap. But, you must go. It is a gaping look into the mind of a creative genius. The lobby lounge itself is a gold plated and neon light filled concoction of furniture and music that itself is worthy of an admission fee. A trip to the men’s room is to find yourself inside the mind of Liberace’s most decadent fantasies.

experience the city piece by piece. This is exactly what we did as we spent eight days completely immersing ourselves in everything Tokyo.

Once inside the arena, guests are sat in rows on each side of the stage. You are served a dinner of

10

MOST IMPORTANT THINGS TO REMEMBER WHEN YOU ARE IN JAPAN

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marginal sushi, but please remember that even though it is called a restaurant, you are not here for the food.

The show/battle/pop concert is spread out over three shows with intermissions to purchase beer and snacks. The intermissions are not only to rehydrate with alcohol but most likely to allow your heartrate to recover from your cardio workout. The battle between bikini clad woman warriors, gods, dragons and characters will leave you either dizzy, confused, exhilarated, drunk, perplexed or happy. I think the idea is to accomplish all of the above.

#1

#2

#3

#4

#5

#6

#7

Your credit cards are often not accepted.

Carry cash.

There are no public trash cans.

In response to the subway terrorist attack in the 90’s all trash cans were removed and have not been replaced. Pack your trash and when you see a can, use it because they are rare. You can often find small cans near vending machines.

Public Wi-Fi is not very fast.

Rent a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot.

Always ask for help. Most signs are in Japanese characters.

People will almost always help you.

Take the train whenever possible.

It is much cheaper than a taxi and can get you anywhere.

Some, but not all, restaurants have “English menus”.

That does not mean they serve hamburgers or fries. Our first night I ended up eating Jellyfish.

With a 16 hour time difference you will experience extreme jet lag the first three days. Give yourself time for a quick nap each afternoon. It was completely gone by day four for us.

WHAT DID WE LOVE ABOUT TOKYO? -The indoor pool at The Peninsula Hotel

THE GATE HOTEL KAMINARIMON Makes an Excellent Homebase

WHAT NOT TO MISS IN TOKYO 1. Walk the city ‘til you cannot walk anymore. There is so much to see. We walked 12 miles each day.

2. Go to a baseball game: The sport is huge in Japan, they bring beer to your seat in keg backpacks and the fans sing amazing songs throughout the game. We are now Yakult Sparrow fans.

3. Eat Yakatori in Shinjuku in Memory Lane otherwise known as “Piss Alley”.

-Learning how to ride the subway: It can take you anywhere

-Ramen: It was our go-to food and different from place to place

HERE’S WHAT’S WALKABLE FROM THE FRONT DOOR:

-The Hello Kitty room at Keio Plaza Hotel

1. The rows of shopping and eating stalls leading to Senso-Ji Temple and the 35’ tall red lantern hanging from its gate.

-Vending machines: You will find one about every 100 yards all across Tokyo

2. The expansive and beautiful Ueno Park -The food vendors at Yakult Swallows baseball game

3. Kikko, super cute traditional Japanese restaurant 4. Asahi Beer HQ and the giant golden yam 5. National Museum of Nature and Science

4. Shibuya crossing is as cool as it looks on YouTube.

Thousands of people line up to cross the street over and over again. The best place to watch it is from the second floor of the Starbucks on the corner.

-Pizza Slice: Maybe the best pizza we’ve ever had, anywhere

-The view from Tokyo Skytree: It is the tallest tower in the world at 2,080 feet

5. Check out the amazing street style and do some peoplewatching in Harajuku.

-The friends we met at the Apple store who taught us how to write Japanese characters on an iPad

6. Wake up early and go to the Tsujki fish market. There are so many people and so much energy. Be careful not to be run over. There are quite a few sushi restaurants. The wait, depending on the popularity, can be between two and five hours. Yes, the sushi is that good and that popular.

7. Eat at one of the 153 Michelin Star restaurants. There are more Michelin rated restaurants in Tokyo than there are in Paris. Tsuta is the first Tokyo ramen restaurant to earn a star.

-Cups of ice: Sold at nearly every convenience store.

8. Insert yourself into a real life Mario Kart game with a life size Mario Kart tour of the city.

9. Walk through the quiet gardens at the Imperial Palace to escape the city for a few hours.

10. Watch a sumo tournament or at least visit their stable.

We met sumos at a nightclub called New Lex Tokyo while we were out drinking and dancing.

#8

#9

#10

All McDonalds in Tokyo are Pokemon gyms and Poke stops.

You should eat ramen every day.

There are so many varieties.

You should download RamenBeast from the Apple app store.

There are two airports.

Narita is about an hour from the city. Haneda is about 15 minutes.

Choose wisely.

OUR THREE FAVORITE PARTS OF TOKYO:

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POPCORN FLAVORS AT TOKYO DISNEYLAND

1. Corn Cottage 2. Soy Sauce and Butter 3. Curry 4. Honey 5. Strawberry 6. Milk Tea 7. Coconut 8. Cappuccino 9. Milk Chocolate 10. Jalapeño & Cheese

Remember, there are nine million people living in Tokyo in 23 different “wards” or cities.

1. Shibuya 2. Shinjuku 3. Ginza

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YOU ARE A TOURIST, ACT LIKE IT: -Go to Robot Restaurant. Have a few beers first and during, skip their dinner.

THE PENINSULA HOTEL If you were to drop a pin in the heart of Tokyo the pin would land in Ginza.

Drop a pin in the heart of Ginza and you would land at the Peninsula Hotel. The two are perfectly matched. Stylish shops along the streets of Ginza are echoed in the sophisticated lobby of the hotel. The peace and tranquility of the Tokyo Imperial Palace across the street is carried through in the stylish and Zen rooms you will find at The Peninsula.

From the moment we arrived at the hotel we knew we would come back. Every detail of your stay,

every plan you expected seems to be anticipated by the staff. Doors are always held open, you are escorted everywhere and always made to feel like a guest.

Even though there are other amazing breakfast options nearby, we chose to eat in the lobby each morning. The food was that good. The room was quiet, comfortable and equipped with Wi-Fi. The perfect landing place to relax after walking 12 miles each day through a very loud, people-filled city. The Peninsula was our haven during our trip to Tokyo.

-Eat a crepe in Harajuku -Take a lot of annoying pics with a selfie stick.

-Walk through the gorgeous Meiji Jingu shrine.

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1. Their Japanese breakfast is amazing. Grilled fish, rice, pickled vegetables and miso soup. Yum.

-Try crazy prepackaged foods from the 7-11 -Stay in the Hello Kitty suite at the Keio Plaza Hotel.

It is HK down to the last detail.

TOKYO IS AS INSTAGRAM-WORTHY AS THEY COME 1. Shibuya Crossing 2. Harajuku Girls 3. Tokyo Tower

8 REASONS TO STAY AT THE PENINSULA TOKYO

2. The view of Tokyo Imperial Palace gardens from our Zen decorated room.

3. The separate changing room, closet and makeup mirror for Erin to get ready.

THE 5 EATS WE LOVED IN TOKYO!

-Ramen at Ichiran. This is a franchise but it is AMAZING! Expect an hour wait.

Wait for it.

4. The Rolls Royce that is available to shuttle you from the airport, but we took the train.

5. The best location in the very center of the city and near train stations.

6. Amazing service. The white uniformed door staff never let us touch a door handle, and they were always gracious and helpful. If you asked where anything was they would escort you to it, never point.

-There are over 2,000 7-11’s. The prepackaged food is so fresh. You could survive eating here alone. Try a Chicken Saboro Bento.

-The Japanese Breakfast at The Peninsula Hotel

-The Omakse sushi offering at Daiwa at Tsujki Fish Market for breakfast.

7. Their three-wheel power trikes are a great way to see the city.

THE 7 BEST THINGS WE DID IN TOKYO: The amazing show at Robot Restaurant

Sushi at Daiwa Sushi at the Tsujiki Fish Market

Watching made-to-order ramen

Tokyo Disneyland, especially the flavored popcorns

Drinking Highballs (whiskey and soda) with our friends in Golden Gai -Matcha soft serve ice cream.

The talons of the Asian Eagle Owl at The Owl Cafe gripping my hand inside a leather glove

8. The toilet seats that heat, clean, pulse, deodorize and flush could probably do your taxes.

Honorable mention: Curry flavored Doritos

Karaoke! They bring you food and drinks and you pay by the hour

MIRAMONTE RESORT & SPA 45000 Indian Wells Ln Indian Wells, CA 92210 760.341.2200 www.miramonteresort.com

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RELAXATION

DESTINATION E V E RY T H IN G YOU NEED TO KNOW F OR A PERF ECT G E TAWAY AT MIRAMONTE RESORT & SPA WRITTEN BY: BLAKE PINTO

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1 WORLD-CLASS GOLFING

Miramonte neighbors two world-class golf courses at the Indian Wells Golf Resort: the Celebrity Course and the Players Course. Couldn’t hit a golf ball to save your life? We hope you are never put in that awkward situation. But if you are, the Indian Wells Golf School is available and eager to turn you into the golf pro you were called to be!

2 LUXURY POOLS

Beating the desert heat has never been easier with the help of Miramonte Resort’s luxury pools. Hop in a pool and relax with a cocktail delivered right to you while you take in the surrounding beauty of the Palm Desert and astounding mountains. You can also rent a poolside cabana—each comes with a fresh fruit bowl, water, sodas and even a ceiling fan.

Sign us up!

ONLY IN CALIFORNIA

do we consider driving away from the beach for a vacation. Into the desert we venture, searching for someplace to spend a few days and nights being pampered like a movie star. There are not many options better in Palm Springs to do this than Miramonte Resort & Spa: the oasis in the desert. From world-class amenities to luxurious spa treatments and unforgettable surroundings, the Miramonte Resort & Spa is your destination for relaxation and rejuvenation.

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REMARKABLE ROOMS

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We know, you didn’t come all this way to hang out in your room, but when they’re as beautiful as the ones at Miramonte Resort & Spa, there’s no shame escaping the heat amidst the luxury you’ve paid for. They even offer dogfriendly rooms for your furry friend. They have everything from simple one-bedrooms to suites larger than most apartments, all with spectacular views of the landscaping throughout the resort.

EAT FRESH

The Grove Artisan Kitchen offers seasonal farm-to-table cuisine prepared by amazing chefs, and even offers a select menu that can be delivered poolside. Fish tacos, and their Pistachio Crusted Chilean Sea Bass are a few of our favorites at The Grove.

TOP 5 SPA SERVICE

5

1. Rain Massage: Essential oils fall onto the body like a healing rain and encourage the reduction of fatigue while calming the nervous system. This full body massage will leave you ready to take on the day.

DRINK!

Relaxation is easy to achieve at the Miramonte Resort & Spa. What better way to do so than to sip on a hand-crafted cocktail? Not many places can offer a mojito with muddled mint that they grow on the premises. Unwind and pretend like you never have to go home. The Vineyard Lounge on site offers happy hour daily from 3 to 7 p.m. with $6 well drinks and a discount on their fabulous bar menu.

6 BOCCE BALLIN’

The resort’s recent renovation has provided a major outdoor upgrade, including poolside cabanas and fire pits, but most fun of all, bocce ball courts!

Grab a friend and head toward the back of the resort for a game of bocce ball.

2. Hot Stone Massage: Smooth basalt stones are placed intentionally onto the body by a therapist in this service. Others are moved across the body to help eliminate tension and promote relaxation while encouraging positive energy to flow freely.

7 SWEAT IT OUT

You can workout with a personal trainer and discover limits you never knew you had.

Or, opt for exploring their fitness center’s amenities such as free weights and exercise classes.

One of our favorites? The morning Wellness Walk, which offers guests a 45-minute walk through the beautiful community of Indian Wells.

8 GAME, SET, MATCH!

You cannot possibly enjoy the desert without experiencing a game of tennis during your stay.

The Indian Wells Tennis Garden has served as playing grounds to some of the world’s best tennis pros. Known as host of the BNP Paribas Open, the famous Tennis Garden is only minutes from Miramonte Resort & Spa. Channel your inner pro with the help of the Resort’s tennis concierge and get playing!

9 THE WELL SPA, OF COURSE

This list would not be complete without mentioning The Well Spa. Awarded ‘Best Spa’ in Palm Springs by Desert Magazine readers, The Well is the definition of luxury!

Relax in their saltwater pools or therapeutic eucalyptus infused steam room before being treated to a deep tissue massage. Most of all don’t forget to make a wish at the original well still on site that started it all!

3. Quench Body Wrap: Shea butter acts as a hydrating infusor in this healing full body service. Unwind while your therapist relieves tension throughout your body and leave feeling more relaxed— and softer—than ever.

4. Age-Reversal Facial: NuFace microcurrent is utilized in this service to tone the skin, awaken collagen and elasticity in it and reduce the appearance of fine lines.

5. Pittura Festa: Channel your inner artist with an array of therapeutic and vibrant muds. This is a service you and your friends or partner can do together, and for each other. Get the creative juices flowing with this one!

10 ADVENTURE AWAITS

The knowledgeable concierges at the Miramonte Resort & Spa can direct you to the most memorable destinations during your stay.

From hot air balloon rides to jeep tours and breathtaking hikes, your adrenaline rush is in reach.

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THE RITZ-CARLTON, LOS ANGELES 900 Olympic Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90015 213.743.8824 www.ritzcarlton.com

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BE OUR

GUEST C H I N E S E C U I S I N E T H AT W I L L B E C O M E Y O U R N E W E S T H O L I D AY T R A D I T I O N WRITTEN BY: NANDA DYSSOU PHOTOGRAPHED BY: EMMA MCINTYRE

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Chef John’s Favorites: Holiday: Thanksgiving Ingredients to use in WP24 dishes: black garlic, artichokes Sweets: White chocolate sundried cherry cookies Salty Snack: Chocolate covered potato chips Refreshments: Iced tea or Arnold Palmers Cocktails: Aviation or Don Julio Anejo

5 Cooking Tips from Chef John 1. Make it easy on yourself so you can spend your time with family, not cooking and cleaning up.

2. Do as much as you can ahead of time.

3. Don’t use containers, put everything in bags.

4. If you want to season your potatoes, for instance, just put them in a bag with the spices and shake it up, don’t use a bowl.

Aluminum foil helps with the mess too.

5. Roasting a turkey takes 4 to 6 hours, but you can fry one in an hour and 15 minutes, and it’s so juicy and delicious. Once you’ve had that, you won’t want a regular turkey ever again.

About The Ritz-Carlton at L.A. Live A brand associated with luxury and uncompromising service, the hotel is located between the 23rd and 26th floors of the glass tower at the heart of L.A. Live. Guests will also enjoy amenities such as The Ritz-Carlton Spa with its nine luxurious treatment rooms, a heated swimming pool and Jacuzzi on the rooftop, the fitness center on the 26th floor, and the Club Lounge on the 23rd floor.

“Yes, I cook at home. It’s calming. I put on Pandora, listen to some obscure channel, hang out in the kitchen for an hour, make dinner, come out, sit down, relax, and have fun.”

—JOHN LECHLEIDNER

D

uring the holiday season many of us look forward to entertaining our guests, celebrating with friends and family, and sharing some joyful experiences with them. When it comes to culinary pleasures, WP24 is a sure bet. While one might not think of Chinese food as the obvious choice for this time of the year, the combination of Wolfgang Puck’s exceptional cuisine, The Ritz-Carlton’s never-compromising service, and unmatched panoramic views of downtown Los Angeles will convince guests that taking a break from traditional dishes is indeed a great idea. The restaurant’s proximity to downtown attractions such as L.A. Live, the Staples Center, and the Walt Disney Concert Hall, makes WP24, and its adjacent lounge Nest, the ideal pre and post event destination too.

Over the last few years, L.A. Live in downtown Los Angeles has become a prominent entertainment hub, drawing crowds from all around the city. One of the anchor buildings of the area is an impressive black glass tower, home to The Ritz-Carlton Hotel and the JW Marriott. Its sleek, contemporary design appeals to locals seeking an interlude from their workday stresses, as well as to travelers looking for a luxury vacation destination. Located on the edge of downtown, the skyscraper provides an unmatched view into the heart of Los Angeles.

The 24th floor of the tower is occupied by WP24, a modern Chinese restaurant by award-winning chef and restaurateur Wolfgang Puck. Puck has had a long love affair with Asian cuisine, and with WP24 he wanted to give downtown Los Angeles a luxury Chinese dining option fit for any occasion. The restaurant has 130 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

a modern, lustrous design, blending a variety of materials and visually engaging textures. While most of the colors are dark—the furnishing includes black, brown, gray, and maroon columns, bars, tables, and chairs—the strategically placed orchid centerpieces and the flickering candles on each table add light and warmth to the environment. The familiar soft music playing in the background contribute to the welcoming ambiance. Windows are tastefully dressed with holiday decorations, but it is the myriad city lights twinkling outside that land WP24 its truly magical feel, making it the ideal location for holiday festivities.

Adjacent to WP24 is Nest, another concept by Puck. Hipper and perhaps more relaxed, the lounge offers Asian-inspired snacks, appetizers, and large plates. Its holiday cocktail menu has hot and cold drinks, including mulled wine with Asian spices, a pomegranate cocktail, and sparkling cider. Nest is the perfect venue to get some cocktails and share an appetizer while waiting to be seated at WP24, or when there’s a spare hour before a concert or game nearby.

But those looking for a relaxed fine dining experience this holiday season will want to make time to enjoy a full evening at WP24. Chef Puck’s award-winning cuisine needs no introduction; he has fans around the world. What makes WP24 special is that it is a modern take on traditional Chinese food, designed by Executive Chef John Lechleidner and executed by a staff of over thirty dedicated professionals to meet the highest guest standards.

“Winter is our busiest season,” says General Manager John-Andre Wielenberg.

“On one hand you have the Lakers, Clippers, Kings games. On the other, you

MENU: Sweets:

Mini Chocolate Glazed Bundt Cakes

Candy Cane Macarons

INTERVIEW WITH EXECUTIVE CHEF JOHN LECHLEIDNER

Triple Nut Tart

Savory:

Wok Fried Sea Bass, Sambal, Garlic, Aromatic Herbs and Bean Sprouts

“Angry” Two Pound Live Maine Lobster

have lots of concerts. And of course many of our guests would like to celebrate the holiday season with their friends, family, and associates while dining in a beautiful location with exquisite food.”

In addition to local company events and family dinners, WP24 has hosted movie premieres, fundraisers, weddings, and other once-in-a-lifetime celebrations.

“I’m always in awe of the ideas guests come up with. For instance, a gentleman recently arranged to propose to his girlfriend on the helipad atop the building,” says Wielenberg.

Some guests call just a few hours before they need to host a party of 70 or 100, and the restaurant is usually able to fully accommodate them. Others call to arrange a custom experience ahead of time. “We have guests who visit all Wolfgang Puck restaurants, ours included, and Ritz-Carlton World Travelers who join us during the Los Angeles stop of their trip. We also see more and more tourists from China, who miss authentic Chinese flavors.”

Private events are set up family style, in keeping with Chinese tradition, and all items on the menu are perfect for sharing.

“It’s all about celebrating the season. From our decoration to the menu, we strive to create a festive experience for guests,” Wielenberg says. “We are equally happy to accommodate a party of two or a group of 500.”

Grilled Sonoma Lamb Chops with Cilantro Mint Vinaigrette, Mizuna, Ginger, Crispy Garlic

Whole Roasted Peking Duck Pickled Asian Pear, Steamed Bao Buns and Duck Chow Fun Noodles

Q: Do you have any suggestions for first time WP24 guests?

John Lechleidner: Don’t be afraid to experiment. Don’t just order something you know you’re gonna like, try something different.

Q: What dishes would you recommend?

JL: Any of our signature dishes would be a great introduction: the Peking Duck, the “Angry” Lobster, the Lamb Chops. Our fish offerings change regularly, as do the dumplings. We do six, eight, or 10-course tasting menus by request.

Q: Are those larger tasting menus popular?

JL: Oh, yes. We have guests who come in religiously every few months and tell us, ‘I don’t care what you do, just give me something new each time.’ And we take care of them.

Q: What is a lesser-known ingredient that you often use in creating your signature dishes?

JL: Black garlic. You can’t really use balsamic in Asian food but black garlic has that umami kind of quality: it’s a little tart, a little sweet, and a little funky, so I often include it in my dishes.

Q: If you couldn’t be a chef anymore what would you do?

JL: I’m not sure. But I would still choose to do something hands-on and physical.

Q: Are you in charge of the kitchen at home, or do you prefer not to cook on your days off?

JL: Yes, I cook at home. It’s calming. I put on Pandora, listen to some obscure channel, hang out in the kitchen for an hour, make dinner, come out, sit down, relax, and have fun… Or fire up the grill, hang out outside, have a beer every once in awhile… I like that.

Q: Do you prepare any of the dishes on the menu for your family?

JL: No, because when I cook at home I keep it very simple. I’ll grill a steak and some vegetables, maybe a roasted chicken and make a simple salad. I use as few pots and pans as possible so I don’t have to wash them.

Q: What about during the holidays?

JL: I cook for my family and friends, yes. Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday. We are closed on that day, so the Wednesday before I cook a full Thanksgiving meal for the WP24 family: everyone who works at the restaurant.

It’s usually 40 to 50 people. I prepare four turkeys, some roasted, some fried, and get these beautiful Tahitian squashes, which weigh about 15 pounds each, split them in half, sprinkle some brown sugar on them and roast them with nuts. I also make mashed potatoes, gravy, stuffing, pies, all the traditional stuff I grew up on. We just have a big family meal, hang out, relax, and everyone has a good time… It’s nice. That’s a meal I really like cooking.

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thank YOU

TO OUR PARTNERS Avenue of the Arts BCBG Max Azria Group Bowers Museum Carefree Boat Club Los Angeles Cenci Ventures | Duke’s Chianina Steakhouse Cienega Med Spa Cinépolis Classic Club Clique Hospitality Cryo Wave Dentalogics Drai’s Beach Club El Cholo EOS Rejuvenation Federal Realty Greater Palm Springs Convention & Visitors Bureau Hotel Angeleno K1 Speed Racing LMC | The Highland Residences Miramonte Resort & Spa Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams Nook Real Estate Old Venice Greek & Italian Cuisine Panache Optical Gallery Red O Restaurant Roberto Coin San Diego Museum of Art Santa Catalina Island Company Santa Monica Seafood Tangaroa Fish Market The Hidden Lodge The Studio O Salon Vestar | Long Beach Towne Center Warren Christopher Wells Fargo William Grant & Sons

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