San Diego June 2016 by Locale Magazine

STYLE/BEAUTY Edition

MARIO LOPEZ

LIGHTS, CAMERA, DIMPLES

(left) APPAREL PROVIDED BY: Rachel Zoe www.rachelzoe.com JEWELRY PROVIDED BY: Jonas and Muse www.jonasandmuse.com (right) APPAREL PROVIDED BY: Rachel Zoe www.rachelzoe.com JEWELRY PROVIDED BY: Studio 12.20 Del Mar Highlands www.studio1220.com

12 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

Contributor Call Out PHOTO BY:

TASO PAPADAKIS tasophoto.com @taso_papadakis_1 Fashion Spread - Animal Kingdom San Diego Zoo 2920 Zoo Dr, San Diego, CA 92101 DATE TAKEN: MARCH 25, 2016

LOCALE MAGAZINE | 13

A NOTE FROM OUR

PUBLISHER ERIK HALE PUBLISHER + FOUNDER erik@localemagazine.com | @locale_e

the

TEAM

ASHLEY SMITH COO/CO-FOUNDER ashley@localemagazine.com | @ashleyelainexo

ART REILLY KAVANAUGH ART DIRECTOR + DESIGNER reilly@localemagazine.com @reillyek KARLY MATSON GRAPHIC DESIGNER @karlyloulou

"I love summertime more than anything else in the world. That is the only thing that gets me through the winter, knowing that summer is going to be there." —Jack McBrayer "Like they say, you can learn more from a guide in one day than you can in three months fishing alone." —Mario Lopez I am a summer baby. I live for sunshine; I am solar powered. Just a little of it peeking through my curtains will snap me awake. The days in June are the longest of the year, giving us more time to GO & DO and look great doing it. Our Style/Beauty issue needs your human involvement to maximize its effectiveness. This is not a sit-in-a-lawn-chair issue. This magazine does not sleep in until noon. It is filled to the brim with San Diego style and beauty and we need you to be making your best selfie face while reading it. Super-fit and talented San Diego native, Mario Lopez, and his dimples, are the perfect pair to grace a magazine about style and beauty. If you look up summer in the dictionary there might be a picture of Mario dressed as his most famous character, AC Slater (fluorescent tank top and dolphin shorts), walking the halls of Bayside High. We get to meet the super sweet Project Runway winner Ashley Nell Tipton in “Pins and Needles” (p. 62), then introduce you to five stylish women changing San Diego in “Ladies First” (p.111). We take closeups with giraffes in our safari themed fashion spread at the San Diego Zoo in “Animal Kingdom” (p. 66) and give you an extended, expert look at style and beauty by talking to local experts in “The Gloss-ary" (p. 84). For those of you who are not into style and beauty, there is an awesome roundup of local restaurants with animals in their names in “Animal Instincts” (p. 43), a battle of North (park) vs. South (park) (p.81) and a gay pub crawl “Sunday Fun-Gay” that will make you re-think your weekend (p.116). When you are done reading this, please place it on the coffee table and go outside to show summer how much you have missed it. ERIK HALE PUBLISHER

14 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

EDITORIAL KILEY COLEMAN MANAGING EDITOR + PRODUCTION MANAGER kiley@localemagazine.com @kiiley_notminogue ALANA ARONSON EDITOR alana@localemagazine.com @alana_aronson TAMARA PHILIPS EDITOR tamara@localemagazine.com @tamarakahooya

FINANCE

SALES & MARKETING MIKE TODD SMITH MARKET MANAGER mts@localemagazine.com @miketoddsmith JASON KOSKY MARKET MANAGER jason@localemagazine.com @locale_jason KELLY ZALDO MARKET MANAGER kelly@localemagazine.com @kkzaldo BRIANNA ROMANO PARTNERSHIPS + MARKETING DIRECTOR brianna@localemagazine.com @briannabanawna ALYSSA KLOPFER MARKETING + EVENTS COORDINATOR alyssa@localemagazine.com @lyssthelibra

DISTRIBUTION RICK RAMIREZ ROBERT JONES

VALERIE KERR ACCOUNTANT accounting@localemagazine.com

LO CA LE M AGAZI NE 2755 Bristol St Ste 295, Costa Mesa, CA 92626 949.436.8910 • www.localemagazine.com @localemagazine • #localemagazine

the CONTRIBUTORS J U N E 2016

WRITERS

MELISSA MITCHELL

PHOTOGRAPHERS

ELIZABETH NUTT

NICK ISABELLA

MANUEL PARRA

elizabethnutt.com

nickisabella.photography IG @nickisabella.photography

manuelparraportfolio.tumblr.com IG @MrManuelParra TW @MrManuelParra

inPSYCHfulliving.com IG @inPSYCHful_living TW @inPSYCHful

BRADLEY BLACKBURN BApictures.com

KAI OLIVER-KURTIN IG @kaizie1 TW @kaiokay

TYLER HOLLAND IG @tyler_jal TW @Sirstizorm

MICHAEL WESLEY bluewesley.com | surfart.co IG @bluewesley

NOBLE ANDREWS IG @nobleandrews TW @nobleandrews

SHAHNAZ ZARIF stylingbyshahnaz.com IG @shahnaz1013 TW @shahnazZarif

BEAUTY STYLISTS WILLIAM CAMPBELL GIL COPE gilcope.com IG @gilcope

JEFF COOPER jeffcooperrealestate.com IG @jefftcooper TW @welcomehomeCAx

VALERIE KON valeriekon.com IG @Valerie_Kon

BRIAN BOND USING MAC COSTMETICS brianbondmakeup.com IG @brianbondmakeup

IVAN CHUNG IG @ivanxhide TW @ivanxhide

TASO PAPADAKIS tasophoto.com

JOHN DOLE johndolephoto.com IG @johndolephotography

LAUREN VILLA wildhearts.co IG @wildheartsmag

RYAN WEEDEN salonspruce.com IG @ryan.weeden TW @ryanweeden

JACQUELINE BRYANT IG @jacqbry

ARIELLE LEVY ariellephoto.com IG @ariellelevyphoto

SARAH NAIL sarahnail.com IG @sarahnailphotography

ALLIE MORENO awritingbox.com IG @alliemoreno | @awritingbox TW @awritingbox

FASHION STYLISTS GINA MAGNUSON

KRISTEE TAMULIS

IG @gigimagnuson

IG @Kristeet

JOSIE GONZALES qsphotography.com IG @josgonzales

FRANCISCO, EDDIE AND ALEX BARRAGAN

MICHELLE SLIEFF IG @peachyhungarian TW @peachyhungarian

STYLE BY F.E.A stylebyfea.com iloveyouwhenidonthateyou.com IG @stylebyfea

NICK CIMARUSTI IG @ncimarusti

RODNEY RINKS IG @rodneyrinks TW @tuddyextra

JULIE JONES jonesphotographycompany.com IG @jonesphotographycompany TW @jonesphotoco

JEANNETTE SWANSON IG @jromeswan

16 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

*FOR FULL INFORMATION ON OUR CONTRIBUTORS GO TO www.localemagazine.com/about

LOCALE MAGAZINE

CONTENTS June 2016 T H I S I S S U E : Style/Beauty

Style Profile

Pins and Needles Project Runway Winner Ashley Nell Tipton Puts Plus Size Fashion on the Map

Vs.

North Park vs. South Park A Glimpse into The Customized, Community-Driven Boutiques

Fashion Spread

Animal Kingdom Getting Wild at the San Diego Zoo

96 78

Lone Glag

Wave the Flag Lone Flag Makes an Impression in San Diego

18 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

Beauty Guide

The Gloss-ary Get Your Look On Point with These Beauty and Fitness Tips

Umansky Medical Center for Plastic Surgery

Summertime Surger-Ease Cosmetic Surgeon Dr. Jeffrey Umanskyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Go-To Procedures and Regimens

LOCALE MAGAZINE

CONTENTS June 2016 24

Native Knowledge

Localendar

Insta-Glam

HOME/AWAY

The Essentials

20 Sizzlin' Summer Events

Fashion Bloggers and Beauty Businesses we Love

Lotus Thai

Thai Your Luck

EAT/DRINK

Eat Expert

Flavor Profile Pearls of Wisdom from San Diego’s Culinary Creatives

111

Lotus Thai Brings Southeast Asia to San Diego

Go/Do Experts

Ladies First Running a Business and Making Their Mark, These Ladies Do it All

132

Home Profile

Lady of the Haus Summer Meza shares her practical yet quirky design inspiration for MODERNHAUS

Blush Ice Bar + East-West Kitchen

Make Me Blush

Eat Feature

Blush Ice Bar + EastWest Kitchen Turns Shaved Ice into a Brilliant, Boozy Adventure

Animal Instincts

108

The Lot

Restaurants Whose Names Are as Wild as They Are

Popcorn and Martinis There is a LOT to do Here

Drink Expert

Mix ’n Match San Diego Drink Experts’ Words of Wisdom

116

That's What He Said

Sunday Fun-Gay Discovering Hillcrest’s Top Spots for a Gay Bar Crawl

GO/DO

126

136

Setting the Table

What a Drag Meet the Artist Behind San Diego’s Biggest Drag Show’s Sparkle

Britney Eurton

On Track

The Quick Hits with TVG Horse Racing Analyst Britney Eurton

128

Pro Jockey Mike Smith

Front Runner Ride Along with Pro Jockey Mike Smith

100

Cover Story

Ring The Bell Extra Host Mario Lopez has Come a Long Way Since Saved by the Bell

20 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

122

Music Profile

Seeing Stars Behind the Scenes at The Observatory with Manager Ryan Blank

140

Su Casa

Bridge Builder Classic Italy with a Modern Twist in Rancho Santa Fe

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

ph: 949.436.8910 | fax: 949.682.4807 info@localemagazine.com Locale Magazine is printed by SOUTHWEST OFFSET PRINTING 13650 Gramercy Pl, Gardena, CA 90249 | 310.323.0112 | www.southwestoffset.com

COVER

Photographed By: Gil Cope, gilcope.com | @gilcope Model: Mario Lopez, @mariolopezextra Styled By: Manuel Parra, manuelparraportfolio.tumblr.com | @MrManuelParra Grooming By: Rodney Rinks, @rodneyrinks Shirt Provided By: Richer Poorer, richer-poorer.com Jeans Provided By: Big Star, bigstardenim.com Watch Provided By: Ulysse Nardin, Swiss Watch Gallery and Fine Jewelers at The Shops at Mission Viejo, swisswatchgallery.com

Making THE ISSUE

One of the best parts of putting together a magazine is styling and photographing really, really ridiculously good-looking people like Mario Lopez. Not only does Mario have a smile that lights up a room, he also has a shining, fun personality that is contagious. Everyone involved had an amazing time working with Mario and shooting him at his home, which also happens to have an incredible view. Photographer Gil Cope was inspired by the location and incorporated many natural elements in the shoot: “We were so fortunate that Mario invited us to use his house for our location. We were all set to shoot him on seamless, but the view from his backyard was so amazing—how could we resist. I think it makes for a great cover!” For the shoot, Gil used a Canon 5D MRK III with a Zeiss PCP .2 85mm Super Speed Lens and Hensel Strobes. Stylist Manuel Parra let Mario’s friendly, lighthearted vibe shine through with a chic and simple wardrobe. The classic jeans-and-tee look truly embodied Mario’s laid-back personality and was a perfect look for San Diego’s sunny June weather. “We took the approach of shooting Mario at his home in Los Angeles, completely in his element,” said Manuel, “It was decided early on that he would be barefoot for the entire shoot, which then gave way to the idea of t-shirts and jeans. We wanted him to still have a polished look, which made it incredibly important to use well made t-shirts and tailored jeans, making the focus be solely on him (and his dimples).”

NATIVE KNOWLEDGE

BY LOCALS FOR LOCALS /// THE ESSENTIALS

BAG OF BLOOMS EXPERT: Gabaccia Moreno CREDENTIALS: Co-owner of FERN

Behind the FERN and Inside Gabaccia’s Bag:

1. Cosmo Bag by Rebecca Norman: Perfect to keep my cosmetics together in my purse, and even more perfect to just switch my cosmetics for my credit card, ID, iPhone and essentials for a spontaneous dinner date 2. U by Kotex Tampons and Liners: A girl has to be ready. Kotex keeps it fun with the bright packaging 3. Birchbox Samples: It’s so fun (and convenient on-the-go) to be up to date with the latest trends in cosmetics via Birchbox 4. Bon Bon Lip Balm by TokyoMilk: It’s just so tasty 5. Mascara: All you need is mascara

6. Cassis Perfume Oil by Maison Louis Marie: Can’t beat this scent and how it stays with you for hours 7. Chamomile + Rosemary Hair Oil by Little Barn Apothecary: Perfect on-the-go nourishment for the local dry weather 8. Real Wood Journal by Woodchuck USA: As much as I love my hi-tech gadgets, there’s just something about writing or sketching out an idea by hand

"As much as I love my hitech gadgets, there’s just something about writing or sketching out an idea by hand."

9. Business Card Holder by Woodchuck USA: Love that it is both a card holder and a cosmetic mirror 10. iPad + iPhone by Apple: Their names precede them

PHOTOS BY: John Dole

24 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

NATIVE KNOWLEDGE

BY LOCALS FOR LOCALS /// THE ESSENTIALS

BEAR ESSENTIALS EXPERT: Bear CREDENTIALS: Chef at Cow By Bear

Ever Wondered What an All-Star Chef Keeps in His Bag?

1. Apron: Made by San Diego company Brier Leather, it’s amazing quality and extremely functional

6. Hand of God Wine: Made by my favorite winemaker, Santiago Achával. We serve this Malbec whenever we can get our hands on it

2. Cleaver: I use this bad boy to cut through the giant slabs of beef we age from R&R Ranch, one of the best ranches in the country

7. Bear Head Patch: Bear is spinning off a new private label called “Bearel & Down,” and this is our new logo. Coming to all kinds of home goods and apparel near you soon!

3. Ribeye: Dry aged ribeye, our staple since it all started 4. Sherman’s March DVD: My favorite documentary of all time, we play Sherman’s March in the background of all our dinners for no other reason than I want people to know about it 5. Rhum Barbancourt: I first drank this on a beach in Jacmel, Haiti, and fell in love with it. I think it’s the best rum in the world, and we’ve served it at every dinner we’ve ever had

8. Shot glass: Each dinner features a shot of the Rhum Barbancourt. Many a polaroid pictures have been taken during this special time… 9. Cow By Bear Patch: Our logo since opening in 2011

"We play [Sherman's March] in the background of all our dinners for no other reason than I want people to know about it."

10. Fork: A collaboration between Seletti and Diesel, this silverware is a new addition to our dinners PHOTOS BY: John Dole

26 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

NATIVE KNOWLEDGE

BY LOCALS FOR LOCALS /// THE ESSENTIALS

HEART TO HEART

"My favorite new [Vestal] model is The Republics with a gradient/two tone lens."

EXPERT: Dr. Bryan C. Doonan CREDENTIALS: M.D., Family Medicine/Sports Medicine at Urgent Care 3D

A Peek Inside the Bag of Dr. Bryan C. Doonan:

1. Stethoscope, double barreled: Two tubes are better than one

6. Vestal Brig Tide Watch: So I can always catch the right tide at any break worldwide

2. Vestal sunnies: My favorite new model is The Republics with a gradient/two tone lens

7. Dr. Doonan Chapstick SPF 15: Coconut flavor

3. iPad, all white: I use this for everything

8. Reflex hammer: All black

4. Ballpoint pen with iPad stylus: For electronic signatures, aka my John Hancock

9. Grape flavored tongue depressor: Grape is my favorite

5. Urgent Care custom beaded ice pack/hot pad: Best for no frost bite

10. Digital pulse oximeter: To quickly and accurately read pulse and oxygenation

PHOTOS BY: John Dole

28 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

NATIVE KNOWLEDGE

BY LOCALS FOR LOCALS /// THE ESSENTIALS

BANK ON IT

"I’m proud to be a 25 year team member of a company whose values mirror mine. Living them is what I strive to do as a leader."

EXPERT: Celia Lanning CREDENTIALS: Wells Fargo Greater San Diego Region President

A peak at Celia's day-to-day essentials:

1. Kate Spade Sunglasses: My youngest daughter loves Kate Spade phone cases so having Kate Spade sunglasses makes me look cool in her eyes 2. The Vision & Values of Wells Fargo: I’m proud to be a 25 year team member of a company whose values mirror mine. Living them is what I strive to do as a leader 3. Little Gold Book of Ideas: My mind is constantly working, and brainstorming with a few trusted work friends is a favorite pastime. This is a great place to capture my thoughts and ideas 4. Hair Tie: I am constantly running around, so sometimes it’s nice to just pull my hair back, whether it’s a professional look or just a casual ponytail 5. Girl Scout Pin: I serve on multiple nonprofit boards and the pin reminds me of my responsibility as a leader, a mother, and my service to the community 6. Butter London Lippy Liquid Lipstick in Yummy Mummy: A moisturizing, nude 30 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

shade that’s easy to apply, and goes with everything, makes “being on the go” so much easier for me 7. Kate Spade Business Card Holder: I dress conservatively for work so I like to have something bright, fun, and sassy in my accessories. It’s nice to have a bit of my personality thrown in the mix 8. Picture of my daughters: I adore my daughters and as a woman I want to set a positive example of all they can accomplish 9. LUSH Colour Supplement: I don’t leave home without a lightweight foundation, and my oldest daughter introduced me to LUSH because they have all natural ingredients and support the fight against animal testin 10. EO Lavender Hand Sanitizer: I’m always shaking hands and I’m also a big hugger. Being able to sanitize and moisturize with something that smells so great is a necessity

PHOTOS BY: Bradley Blackburn

LOCALE ndar

SIZZLIN' SUMMER EVENTS WRITTEN BY: WILLIAM CAMPBELL

PADRES NIGHT AT THE BALLPARK!

sdar.com ¢ Swing batta, batta, swing! The San Diego Association of

Realtors is set to host a night of endless soft drinks and all you can eat ball park food on July 21. Only thing you have to do is show up.

THE WEDDING DIVAS BRIDAL SHOW

theweddingdivasbridalshow.com ¢ Getting married soon? At

this bridal show, you get to see all the latest wedding styles, trends, cakes, bridesmaids dresses, rings, shoes, pillows—you name it.

SEE FINDING DORY AT CINÉPOLIS

www.cinepolisusa.com ¢ This one pretty much sells itself. The long awaited sequel to

Finding Nemo, Finding Dory, is coming out on June 17. This time we’re following our fave Pacific Regal Blue Tang, Dory, in her quest to locate her family, while you and yours enjoy the show in comfort and luxury.

COMIC-CON INTERNATIONAL: SAN DIEGO www.comic-con.org ¢ Let your wardrobe do

FIDM 3 DAYS OF FASHION–SAN DIEGO CAMPUS

all the talking at this fun, fantasy-filled event (July 21-24). Explore the world of entertainment with your favorite characters across every world.

fidm.edu ¢ Fashion fans looking to

develop their brand will love 3 Days of Fashion. From June 22-24, meet fashion celebrities, sketch fashion figures, make mockup products, build connections, work with other students from across the globe, and much, much more.

CONTEMPORARY ART & SUPERHERO ACTION IN ESCONDIDO artcenter.org ¢ The My Hero Art Show

SAN DIEGO INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW

sandiegointernationalboatshow.com ¢ Here, boats of all types and sizes come from around the world to showcase their

nautical glory from June 16-19. There’s even paddle board classes and yacht viewings for those looking to master their sea legs. Come on aboard you mangy land lover—it’s time to set sail. 32 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

showcases artists from around the world who reimagine our favorite super heroes in contemporary surroundings or as other things. This showcase also provides discussion panels about what it means to be a super hero, what they symbolize at their core, and why we love them so much. It’s a gottago-to event for any comic or contemporary arts fan.

SAN DIEGO FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS sdfestivalofthearts.org ¢ The San Diego Festival

of the Arts (June 11-12) is designed to help those who have sustained longterm injuries with proactive and supportive programs developed to aid with their life changing disabilities. With nearly 200 artists on hand, art, entertainment and food, there is something for every caring heart to enjoy.

2016 SAN DIEGO OYSTERFEST oysterfestsd.com ¢ What if I told you you could get craft beers,

wine, champagne, restaurant quality food and delicious oysters all in the same place? Well, good news—the San Diego Oysterfest is coming! June 17-18, the Oysterfest will return for some good music, and good eatin’. Just make sure you’re there, and that you bring your appetite. The food will do the rest.

SAN DIEGO COUNTY FAIR

sdfair.com ¢ Where else to indulge in exceptionally creative fried goods than the SD County Fair?

Between the games, rides, concerts and people-watching, it will be worth every delicious minute. The fair runs June 3-July 4.

SHOP & SAVOR AT GROSSMONT CENTER

ULTIMATE GIRLFRIEND AFFAIR SAN DIEGO

stomach is nearly impossible. Luckily, Grossmont Center is throwing its second annual Shop and Savor event on June 25. Fill up on delicious plates and samplers to get that shopping energy back.

out to a whole new level on Saturday, June 18. Gift bags, cocktails and eye candy? Sounds like a win, win. Just remember, what happens at the Ultimate Girl Affair, stays at the Ultimate Girl Affair.

ultimategirlfriendaffair.com ¢ UGA takes girls night

grossmontcenter.com ¢ Shopping on an empty

TASTY ADVENTURES BEER TRAIN TOUR

lajollawinetours.com ¢ If Oktoberfest is too far (or

too expensive) for you to make a thing of it, San Diego’s Beer Train Trolley Tour has you covered. It’s a four-brewery, 16-beer extravaganza that will have you clinking ale mugs nonstop.

JASON HUMPHREY AND EZRK AT GRAFFITI BEACH BOUTIQUE shopgraffitibeach.com ¢ On June 3, San Diego

greets Jason Humphrey and EZRK, who will be showcasing new art pieces at Graffiti Beach Boutique. Make sure you stop by for music, great shopping and great people. You might even find something for that empty wall you’ve been meaning to dress.

37TH ANNUAL OCEAN BEACH STREET FAIR & CHILI COOK-OFF FESTIVAL

SAN DIEGO PRIDE MUSIC FESTIVAL

sdpride.org/festival ¢ This year, July 16-17, the

festival’s theme “Pride Unites the World” will be musically celebrated during July. Bring your friends and be connected to all in attendance at this spectacular event.

80S HEAT ALOHA PARTY

bellyup.com/80s-heat-aloha-party ¢ Calling all Baywatch babes

and Magnum, P.I. studs! This 80s Aloha themed party is sure to excite all attendees on July 3. Turn up the heat and party “All Night Long.”

oceanbeachsandiego.com ¢ Get a taste of San Diego’s

finest chili at the Ocean Beach Street Fair & Chili Cook-Off on June 25. Heat fiends will love the hottest bowl of chili contest and overall chili aficionados will definitely appreciate trying the Best in Show winner.

SUNSET ARTWALK BY BERNARDO WINERY bernardowinery.com ¢ Sip, stroll, and admire

stunning strokes this summer at Bernardo Winery’s artwalk on Friday nights from June to August. Music will fill the air and shopping will have you joyfully emptying your pockets all weekend long.

THE SAN DIEGO INTERNATIONAL BEER FESTIVAL

sandiegobeerfestival.com ¢ The SD International Beer

Fest had exactly 10,952 attendees last year. This year, June 17-19, is set to be even crazier. Enjoy craft brews, munch on gourmet snacks and enjoy SD’s awesome beer fandom.

SUJA ROCK ‘N’ ROLL MARATHON runrocknroll.com ¢ Live bands, themed water stations and a beer at the end of

the race—what’s not to love? The Suja Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon (June 23-25) even has pace teams who run with you for that extra moral support. Put this Suja marathon on your bucket list today. You’ll be glad you did. LOCALE MAGAZINE | 33

I N STA - G L AM 1

VANESSA BALLI @vanessaballi 14.9k followers

SALON SPRUCE @salonspruce 3,665 followers

HUNT FOR STYLES Gina Ybarra @huntforstyles 201k followers

STOKED YOGI Amelia Travis @stoked_yogi 62.4k followers

SAUVAGE SWIMWEAR @sauvageswimwear 17.6k followers

FASHIONLUSH Erica Stolman @_fashionlush_ 40.2k followers

BCBG MAX AZRIA @bcbgmaxazria 536k followers

FERN @thefernmethod 2,178 followers

THE SKINNY CONFIDENTIAL Lauryn Evarts @theskinnyconfidential 223k followers

F O LLO W LO CA LE M AG A Z I N E O N I N STAG R A M @localemagazine â&#x20AC;¢ #localemagazine

34 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

PHOTO BY: Josie Gonzales

eat /drink

JUNE

2016

38 EAT EXPERT San Diego’s Restaurateurs Share Their Golden Rules

40 LOTUS THAI Ton SangKapong and Brice Lin Talk Best Dishes at Lotus Thai in San Diego

43 EAT FEATURE These 7 SD Restaurants with Animal Names Can’t and Won’t Be Tamed

56 BLUSH ICE BAR + EAST-WEST KITCHEN Blush Ice Bar + East-West Kitchen serves up an adult version of our childhood favorite treat—the slushie

58 DRINK EXPERT

San Diego Drink Experts Share Their Secrets to Success

EAT FEATURE Animal Instincts

THE BAKED BEAR 7610 Via Campanile Carlsbad, CA 92009 760.635.8526 www.thebakedbear.com

JUNE 2016

EAT EXPERT

Pearls of Wisdom from San Diego’s Culinary Creatives

WRITTEN BY: ALLIE MORENO PHOTOGRAPHED BY: JOHN DOLE & BRADLEY BLACKBURN

PA S C A L LO R A N G E Owner & Executive Chef, Crudo

ISABEL CRUZ Owner, Isabel’s Cantina

Q: What’s the biggest challenge moving from Fig & Olive to a new concept like Crudo? PL: The first part is always the hardest—the starting over. But it’s great, we are keeping everything local—even the furniture is from San Diego.

Q: What makes Isabel’s Cantina unique? IC: Isabel’s Cantina is a very casual restaurant but you can still go there dressed up for a special occasion like an anniversary or a birthday, or you can walk in off the beach and feel comfortable. The food is the same way—you can order blackberry pancakes or a breakfast burrito for breakfast or you can come for dinner and have a glass of champagne and a nice piece of local grilled fish.

Q: What makes Crudo so unique? PL: It’s a mix of Mediterranean and Japanese influence and built on the idea of raw sushi. It’s healthy, simple and light, which means no cream or butter.

38 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

A L B E R TO M O R R E A L E Owner, Farmer’s Bottega & Co-Owner, Fig Tree Café

JACOB BELL Owner, Sol Cal Cafe

Q: What does it take to own a restaurant? AM: Insanity. But seriously, you must genuinely love what you do. It’s a lifestyle. Sometimes you lose track of the things that are important. You have to find a way to balance everything.

Q: As a former NFL player, what kinds of skills transfer over to the restaurant business? JB: I definitely think it’s the desire to succeed and my competitive nature. I have high expectations.

C H E F A N TO N I O F R I S C I A Consulting Chef, Fireside

ERIC ADLER Tacoteur, Puesto

Q: What is the new concept of Fireside about? AF: It’s all about wood fire and charcoal. This is a concept that has generations of technique and tradition behind it. It comes from watching my grandmother in Sicily roast peppers right on the coals.

Q: What makes Puesto food so unique? EA: The ingredients and preparation, but also the environment we create and the people we bring on. I think that the transparency is really important.

LOCALE MAGAZINE | 39

EAT/DRINK

THAI YOUR LUCK

LOTUS THAI Brings Southeast Asia to San Diego

WRITTEN BY: MICHELLE SLIEFF | PHOTOGRAPHED BY: JOSIE GONZALEZ

Brice Lin graduated from National University and received his master’s degree in business. He had a plan to return to Taiwan and work with his family business—but then, life changed when he and Ton met. Ton SangKapong started the first location in Hillcrest in 2000. Brice was a patron of Ton’s restaurant at the time. Ton took a strong liking to Brice and invited him to become a business partner. They opened the second location in East Village in 2004. At the beginning, Lotus Thai Downtown experienced some hardships—Brice was even working as a delivery boy. Brice realized they established their place in East Village too early, so he suggested that Ton add a compact selection of dim sum to the menu and more people began dining with them. It was the first Thai

restaurant serving dim sum in San Diego, and just what the area needed. The Downtown location works as a trendy Asian fusion concept, while the Hillcrest location is more casual and traditional.

Tropical Mango Chicken. The menu at both locations does not often change; these recipes are rich in tradition and don’t need to be reinvented every season. With that said, they do offer chef specialties on a separate menu.

If you’re dining Downtown, you definitely need to try the Roasted Half-Duck Curry. Chefs roast the duck daily and season it with five spices. The duck is then stewed in a delectable curry served with fresh cherry tomatoes, grapes, pineapple, bell peppers and basil. If you’re looking for something a little lighter, go with Brice’s pick: their very famous Sea Bass in White Wine. In this dish, sea bass is steamed with fresh ginger, scallions and baby bok choy, it finishes with house special low-sodium soy sauce and Michiu with white wine. Brice and his mom actually created the recipe for this dish together!

Indoor waterfalls and Buddha statues add to the eye-catching, eclectic decor creating a peaceful, yet intriguing dining experience. Lotus Thai offers a variety of authentic dishes surrounded by an inviting atmosphere that defines the ideal setting for happy hour or dinner with friends. Thai, Chinese and vegetarian friendly menu options make Lotus Thai irresistible choices for exotic neighborhood dining.

If you’re in Hillcrest, be sure to try their best sellers, the Thai Baby Back ribs or the

DOWNTOWN: 906 Market St., San Diego, CA 92101 | 619.595.0115 | www.lotusthaisd.com 40 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

Lotus Thai offers award-winning cuisine and is currently recognized as the oldest Thai restaurant in Downtown San Diego. Needless to say, Brice no longer operates as the delivery boy. What’s up next for Lotus Thai? Brice hopes their third location will find its hometown in Taichung city, Taiwan.

WHAT TO ORDER: Downtown:  Roasted HalfDuck Curry  Sea Bass In White Wine Hillcrest:  Thai Baby Back Rib  Tropical Mango Chicken WHAT IS DIM-SUM?  It is an experience, not just one dish. It is a style of Cantonese cuisine in which small bite-sized portions of food are served, generally in baskets or on small plates.

HILLCREST: 3761 6th Ave., San Diego, CA 92103 | 619.299.8272 | www.lotusthaisd.com

MONKEY PAW 805 16th St San Diego, CA 92104 619.955.5295 www.monkeypawbrewing.com

Restaurants Whose Names Are as Wild as They Are WRITTEN BY: IVAN CHUNG & TAMARA PHILIPS PHOTOGRAPHED BY: JOSIE GONZALEZ

From time to time, a simple craving turns into a raging appetite, a hunger so fierce you can’t help but answer its call. That’s when your instinct can only be satisfied by dishes whose restaurants are as ferocious as your appetite. Browse through this menagerie of flying pigs, to find out where that rumbling stomach will best be satiated.

Fish 101 works with local seafood vendors to bring us some of the freshest and tastiest dishes around North County.

BACK TO SCHOOL The name

Fish 101 not only comes from the fact that they’re right by Highway 101, but it also alludes to being back in college. Fish 101 puts an emphasis on the basics and fundamentals of the food just as an intro course would.

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FISH 101 1468 N Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas, CA 92024 760.943.6221 | www.fish101restaurant.com

At Fish 101 the team is serious about really tasty seafood, wine and beer. The menu is their interpretation of a traditional West Coast fish house—combining what you’ve come to expect from a traditional fish house with their own unique twists and always serve the freshest ingredients available.

Plates from the Grill Located on North Coast Highway 101, this local seafood joint is a must-try on our list. The grilled fish and shrimp plates are crowd favorites, served with a choice of two sides—

you can pick from fries, rice, black beans, or any of the chalkboard specials. The grilled shrimp and fish tacos are quality choices for a Taco Tuesday craving, served with pico de gallo, avocado and fresh tomatillo sauce.

Plates from the Fryer Who doesn’t love a great basket of fish n’ chips? This classic is beer battered and served with fries and tarter sauce. And for a gourmet street taco experience, try either the fish or shrimp tacos—or both! Have a Captain Eli’s Root Beer with either of these,

and you’ll find yourself completely satisfied after a long day spent out in the sun.

Now Shucking! Fish 101 works with local seafood vendors to bring us some of the freshest and tastiest dishes around North County, and this menu selection will hit the spot after an exhausting surf session by the beach. Of course, this includes the daily selection of fresh oysters—served with mignonette, housemade cocktail sauce and lemon.

You’ll be able to sit down, relax, and enjoy the comfort food meal of a lifetime!

THE NEXT FOOD TREND The restaurant is part of the Slow Food Movement, which is a grassroots movement that focuses on bringing the best food to customers with a commitment to the environment.

FLYING PIG PUB & KITCHEN 626 S Tremont St, Oceanside, CA 92054 760.453.2940 | www.flyingpig.pub

Flying Pig Pub & Kitchen began with the Oceanside location and recently expanded to open a spot in downtown Vista. Both serve a plethora of craft beer options and unique fresh menu items, and of course, some of SD’s best BBQ around. As a restaurant with rotating dishes and locally-sourced food, they always have something new and delicious on the menu. Be sure to ask your server about daily specials to get the latest and greatest.

Braised All Natural Duroc Pork Belly The honey mustard maderia braise will

leave a lingering flavor in your mouth in 46 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

the best way. Served with blistered shishito cornbread, al dente collard greens and black-eyed peas you’ll be able to sit down, relax, and enjoy the comfort food meal of a lifetime! To complete this meal, pair the duroc pork belly with the parmesan truffle fries: the shoestring fries are deep fried in truffle oil and seasoned with the perfect amount of parsley, salt and parmesan— served with truffle aioli.

Bacon Mac n’ Cheese With an adult spin on a childhood

favorite, this sharp cheddar bechamel cheese macaroni is sure please anyone, beginner and refined palates alike. House

bacon is mixed in with the butter and flour base to create the cheesiest perfection.

Green Alternative The beet salad with pesto and pecans is

a phenomenal healthy alternative, served with a creamy feta dressing, roasted baby gold beets, confit blood orange, baby kale, chicory and pecans. Feeling adventurous? The octopus salad is flavor packed and will give your mouth an exciting change of texture with tandoori octopus, squid ink, black garlic and tamarind vinaigrette, mizuna greens, gremolata marinated radishes and honey onion petals.

You can even cruise the museum with a glass of your favorite craft beer or wine.

GREEN DRAGON TAVERN 6115 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, CA 92011 760.918.2421 | www.greendragontavernca.com

This spot not only hosts some of the best beer and meals in Carlsbad, but also has a free admission museum to promote and celebrate our country's heritage and reconnect guests with the life events and contributions of our founders. You can even cruise the museum with a glass of your favorite craft beer or wine.

Fish n’ Fries This is a menu classic, served old school

on a bed of newspaper. The golden beerbattered cod and crisp garlic parmesan fries won’t disappoint. Be sure to dip these in the sherry aioli that is served with it—you

may even want to ask for a second side of it because this stuff is the tastiest dip for both the fish and fries. Squeeze a bit of lemon on top, and voila, perfection!

Pastrami Burger This is the best version of a burger you can

order. With angus beef and pastrami—you’ll be rubbing your belly in delight after finishing. The burger comes with swiss, caramelized onion, rosemary dijonaise, and of course, the garlic parmesan fries on the side.

Dragon Tavern

HISTORY MEETS FOOD including: Alpine Duet IPA, Legacy, Sons of Liberty Porter and Belching Beaver Peanut Butter Milk Stout. Décor includes a massive brass chandelier, custom built cherry stained tables and American handmade Hitchcock chairs with depictions of Pilgrims and the revolution. The idea of Green Dragon Tavern stems from the historical reference of Boston’s original Green Dragon Tavern, which was demolished in 1854. The building is a re-imagination of the original structure, where the founders met secretly to plan the American Revolution vs. Boston Tea Party.

If you want to find out more about the background of the restaurant and the American Revolution, make sure to go next door to the museum, which features historic figures like Paul Revere and Samuel Adams.

A variety of craft beers are offered on draft

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Be sure to grab yourself a half dozen cookies to-go while you’re at it—because you can never have enough cookies.

BEAR ON THE MOVE The Baked Bear first opened in Pacific Beach three years ago, and has since expanded to five different locations all around San Diego. They just opened in the Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco, and will soon expand to Arizona.

THE BAKED BEAR 7610 Via Campanile, Carlsbad, CA 92009 760.635.8526 | www.thebakedbear.com

If you’re any kind of ice cream enthusiast, The Baked Bear will seal the deal for you. Co-owner Rob says that the idea behind their cute sunglasseswearing polar bear logo is to create a mascot people can relate to when craving ice cream under the hot San Diegan sun. From the cookies to ice cream, they make everything from scratch.

Baked Bear Combo The superstar menu item is the

“Baked Bear Combo,” with half cookie and half brownie as the “buns” of the sandwich. It’s a melt-in-your-mouth sugary explosion. Choose from any of

their fun and unique flavors to smoosh between those decadent cookies: bear batter, birthday cake, soy chocolate chip, strawberry cheesecake, coffee, peanut butter and even more!

Grab a Dozen Be sure to grab yourself a half

dozen cookies to-go while you’re at it—because you can never have enough cookies. There is always a different cookie of the month, funfetti, M&M, red velvet, oatmeal cinnamon, white chocolate macadamia nut, and of course the classic chocolate chip (in gluten free as well!).

Every dish is smoked using oak and hickory for hours.

TEXAS MEETS SOCAL Chef Rick has brought his Texan background into Iron Pig, which offers a fusion of fine dining experience and Texas BBQ flavors.

IRON PIG ALEHOUSE 1520 Garnet Ave, San Diego, CA 92109 858.412.4299 | www.ironpigalehouse.com

Smoked Oak and Hickory Coming into the restaurant and

seeing the Iron Pig mascot on the menu foreshadows the protein coma you’re about to experience. Every dish is smoked using oak and hickory for hours. The most requested of these are the slow-smoked brisket, rib tips and the unique hickory-smoked chicken wings that come with an option of spicy barbecue sauce. PB locals say they can smell the smoky and tangy aroma from a mile away.

Beers on Tap With over 40 beers on tap, this is not your standard bar and grill. And these aren’t just any beers; Iron Pig serves

the best craft beers in town to pair with barbecue. Some of these include: 2 Towns Ciderhouse The Bad Apple, Boulevard Tripel Julep, Insurgente Berry Brown, Mike Hess Solis Romani and more!

Meat by the Pound Everything is prepared from scratch,

even the catering orders. Iron Pig Alehouse caters for any event. You can order any of their smoky and tasty meats by the pound: pulled chicken or pork, half chicken, baby back ribs or brisket. And if you’re feeling sweet, order the cobbler pan—you’ll want to cozy up in a big chair after this meal.

This is not just any sandwich, the pork is drenched in Sweet Georgia Brown BBQ sauce with fresh red onion, served on a soft roll.

ANOTHER ROUND Owner Scot Blair also owns several other restaurants and breweries around downtown SD, such as Hamilton’s, Small Bar and the recently opened South Park Brewery Company.

MONKEY PAW 805 16th St, San Diego, CA 92101 619.358.9901 | www.monkeypawbrewing.com

Pulled Pork Roll and Fries This is not just any sandwich, the pork

is drenched in Sweet Georgia Brown BBQ sauce with fresh red onion, served on a soft roll. And for your side of fries, while the classic salty fries are delicious, be adventurous—Monkey Paw has the most loaded options for fries. There’s the Piggyback Fries: topped with tender shredded BBQ pork, melted cheddar and fresh green and red onions. And for a guaranteed food coma, order the Stoner Fries, which is topped with any combo of meat, cheese and veggies—you can even choose tofu as your protein!

The Brews Located in East Village, Monkey Paw

has a huge selection of beers on tap that have won tons of awards in the brewing community, such as the Gold Award in the San Diego International Beer Festival 2014, as well as an award at the 2016 Bistro Double IPA Festival.

Chimpin' Ain't Easy This is the restaurant’s 4th

anniversary stout, with an astounding 10 percent alcohol level. Utilizing a pound and a half per barrel of Dane Coffee Chiapas Beans and three roasted malts, coffee dominates the aroma and flavor. Homemade dulce de leche caramel and lactose provide residual sugar and body to back up and balance the bitter roast and alcohol notes.

Just the appetizers alone will leave you salivating like no other.

THE JOYFUL HOUR Happy hour specials (5-6 p.m. MondayFriday) run at $6 for upscale classics like truffle fries and liver pâté.

THE SMOKING GOAT 3408 30th St, San Diego, CA 92104 619.955.5295 | www.thesmokinggoatrestaurant.com

Steak Tartar Chef Fred has a great kitchen staff

to whip up some of SD’s most amazing dishes. Just the appetizers alone will leave you salivating like no other. With the three-course meal, you may choose one appetizer, one entrée and one dessert off the menu. Begin with the perfectly seasoned steak tartar, which is balanced with a creamy remoulade and sharp cornichons, served with toasted bread.

Hidden Fjord Scottish Salmon With lamb, steak, salmon, scallops, chicken and pork chop as entree options, it’s difficult to nail down merely one. For the perfect portion size, choose the Hidden Fjord Scottish Salmon that

is served alongside sautéed kale, herbed cherry tomato, sweet potato beurre noisette and avocado crema. However, any of the entrees are great picks, especially with the fusion atmosphere of fine dining and laid-back character of SD as a backdrop to your meal.

Goat Cheese Cheesecake Typically quite a heavy dessert, cheesecake can be tough to consider after a savory meal. However, the Smoking Goat’s cheesecake is made with goat cheese, making for a light and refreshing version on the standard dessert. With poached peach and whipped cream, this is the perfect amount of sweet to end your dining experience.

EAT/DRINK

Make Me Blush

“Operating in the heart of the Gaslamp District is very exciting and competitive. We have a great community of bars and restaurants and I’m glad people from around the world find it a great place to visit.” —Taylor Kim, Owner of Blush Ice Bar

Blush Ice Bar + East-West Kitchen Turns Shaved Ice into a Brilliant, Boozy Adventure WRITTEN BY: GINA MAGNUSON PHOTOGRAPHED BY: JULIE JONES

Summertime means one thing: slushies. Now, what happens when our favorite frosty confection pairs with fresh fruit and alcohol? You get the Blush Cocktail, better known as the “Blushie”—Blush Ice Bar + East-West Kitchen’s signature drink. The Gaslamp District eatery has taken icy beverages to the next level, pairing delicious, refreshing drinks with fusion dishes that are chock-full of umami. Owner Taylor Kim worked the “9-5” while moonlighting as a bartender for five years, then continued to bartend in six different restaurants, bars and nightclubs until he opened Blush in San Jose in 2012. And now, the second location, opened in summer 2015, is booming in the Gaslamp.

BLUSH ICE BAR + EAST-WEST KITCHEN 555 Market St San Diego, CA 92101 619.501.9158 www.sandiego.blushicebar.com 56 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

THE BLUSHIE

Each of these drinks is topped with a float of their exclusive house-made, frosted fruit ice.

DRINK EXPERT

San Diego Drink Experts’ Words of Wisdom

WRITTEN BY: ALLIE MORENO PHOTOGRAPHED BY: JOHN DOLE & BRADLEY BLACKBURN

D E A N P R YO R In-House Cocktail Specialist, Madison on Park

MIKE HESS Owner and Founder, Hess Brewing

Q: What’s the most rewarding part of your job? DP: You get to taste so many great things as a bartender and get exposed to a lot. And it might be cliche, but it’s really exciting to see someone’s eyes light up when they taste something new. Plus, I get to be a wallflower and hear a lot of awkward Tinder dates.

Q: Can you tell me a bit about the Open Mike cans? MH: Very few other breweries use this technology. In fact, we’re the only brewery in California who does it. The idea is that you pop the tops and get all the aromatics. If you’re hiking or outdoors, you can still enjoy the beer the way it’s supposed to be.

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GREG MAJORS Beverage Director, Blue Bridge Hospitality

ASHLEY MARSH National Brand Ambassador, Sailor Jerry

Q: You’re known for being a wine expert, but was that always the case? GM: I have bartender roots, that’s how I started. I don’t have anything against spirits or beer but if I had to rank them, it’d be wine, spirits and then beer.

Q: What exactly does a brand ambassador do? AM: Well, as opposed to bartending, I enhance and amplify the work of other bartenders. I do a lot of events—I was just in Palm Springs where we hosted parties at Frank Sinatra’s house.

JOE BAUMGARDNER Sommelier, Rancho Bernardo Inn

B R I A N M AY E R Resort Sommelier and Beverage Manager, L’Auberge Del Mar

Q: What do you look for in a good wine? JB: I think balance is important, but I’m also looking for something that really blows my hair back when I stick my nose in it. I like something funky and rich. I like a good funk.

Q: Do you have a favorite cocktail or drink? BM: At L’Auberge, we have a drink called “Viva Libre” and it’s made with mezcal, cucumber, cilantro and serrano syrup. It’s spicy but not too spicy—it’s got a strong balance of flavors.

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PHOTO BY: Noble Andrews

style

/beauty

JUNE

2016

62 STYLE PROFILE Project Runway Winner Ashley Nell Tipton is Breaking Barriers in the Fashion World

66 FASHION SPREAD Romping Around the Animal Kingdom at the San Diego Zoo

78 LONE FLAG Lone Flag Menswear Brings a New Look for Men (and Women) in San Diego

81 VS. The Boutiques of Each Neighborhood are Hyper-Local Gems

84 BEAUTY GUIDE From Beauty Tips to Trending Threads, Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all in the Summer Style and Beauty Guide

BEAUTY GUIDE The Gloss-ary

L'AUBERGE DEL MAR 1540 Camino Del Mar Del Mar, CA 92014 858.259.1515 www.laubergedelmar.com

96 UMANSKY MEDICAL CENTER FOR PLASTIC SURGERY Get Summer Ready with Cosmetic Surgeon, Dr. Jeffrey Umansky

JUNE 2016

Ashley Nell Tipton Fashion Designer

www.ashleynelltipton.com Instagram: @ashley_nell_tipton Twitter: @byashley_nell 62 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

Pins &

NEEDLES Project Runway Winner

ASHLEY NELL TIPTON PUTS PLUS SIZE FASHION ON THE MAP

WRITTEN BY: KAI OLIVER-KURTIN PHOTOGRAPHED BY: MICHAEL WESLEY

To say Ashley Nell Tipton is a force to be reckoned with is an understatement. Not only did she beat out 15 fellow fashion designers during a cutthroat season of Project Runway, she also showed the first plus size collection during New York Fashion Week in the TV show’s 14-season history. At 24 years old, she’s breaking barriers and shining a spotlight on frequently marginalized consumers within the fashion industry.

art of a large Hispanic family, Tipton learned how to sew from her grandmother at 7 years old. Upon learning she was dyslexic at about the same time, Tipton turned to sewing as an outlet to express herself creatively. While enrolled in the ArtsTECH Academy at University City High School, she was introduced to fashion design and thought she might design theater costumes. She began sewing clothes for herself and her friends, and then created a full collection for her senior project. Designing this project collection gave Tipton affirmation that she had found her future career.

“There was so much passion in drawing a sketch, making the pattern, and then creating the whole garment,” says Tipton. “I felt so much pride seeing the end result.” She later earned a degree in design from Fashion Careers College in San Diego. Before the school shut down, Tipton had planned to return to study business. Since she wanted to stay in America’s Finest City, she wrote a business proposal and gave it to her uncle, who loaned her $5,000 to start her own business instead. She was able to buy sewing machines, mannequins and other used equipment from the college and was working two jobs to support herself. While in college in 2012, Tipton was accepted to show at Full Figured Fashion Week in New York. This was her first opportunity to get her name out within the plus size fashion industry. With a clothing line in production and sales for customordered garments coming in, Tipton’s business was finally getting off the ground. Being raised in the Encanto neighborhood of Southeast San Diego gave Tipton inspiration, seeing as she saw a lot of streetwear and people dressing on trend.

It gave her an eye for a variety of different styles. However, she tries to be cognizant of the laidback style outside her bubble. “It’s summer year-round here, but I try to design for people all over the world,” says Tipton. “It may feel like summer for us, but it may be winter for someone else—and I have customers across the globe.” Tipton has a very eclectic style as a designer, bringing together several different fashions to create a cohesive clothing line. Her inspiration board for a collection may include urban clothing, feminine clothing with sequins, rockabilly clothing from the 1950s, androgynous clothes with clean lines and streetwear. She typically gravitates toward the fabrics that other designers try to stay away from, such as slippery, lightweight chiffons. Tipton also likes working with upholstery and any print fabric. “It’s a lot of tedious work, but it’s relaxing,” she says. “I’m able to decompress while I’m behind a machine working with my hands.” Two days after Tipton’s grandmother died, she got an email from Project

C R Y S TA L BALL:

Ashley’s High School Senior photo is captioned with “I am America’s next fashion designer for plus sizes.” Can this girl tell the future, or what?!

ASHLEY’S FA V O R I T E FA S H I O N DESIGNERS: 1. Viktor & Rolf 2. Marc Jacobs 3. Karl Lagerfeld

ASHLEY’S FA V O R I T E LOCAL SPOTS TO DRAW I N S P I R AT I O N : 1. Golden Hill Park 2. Downtown San Diego 3. Coronado

N AT I V E KNOWLEDGE:

Tipton’s hair has been dyed lavender since 2012, except for about six months when she went back to brunette (and hated it). Kelly Osbourne was her inspiration for the bold hue.

“Being the first plus size designer on Project Runway to show at New

York Fashion Week felt so groundbreaking. I never thought I would be the person to do it, but I wanted it so bad.” —Ashley Nell Tipton

Runway to apply for the show. She knew her grandmother always wanted her to audition, but she had already auditioned for other shows, Fashion Star and Styled to Rock, without success. This time she went in with purple hair and an increased comfort in her own skin, and knew she would have to give it her all in the audition tape. With best friends by her side to help come out of her shell in front of the camera, Tipton recorded a tape and then had to wait patiently for an answer. She was shopping in Los Angeles when the show producers called and asked her to audition for an on-camera interview in two weeks. “I couldn’t believe I was getting that close to the show,” she says. “It was the biggest news I could ever get. At the time, I was still grieving the loss of my grandma and trying to find my purpose in life.”

the world, a luxury sports car from Lexus, a year’s worth of beauty products, a complete sewing and crafting studio, and a fashion spread in Marie Claire magazine. While the prizes and money were fantastic rewards for Tipton after triumphing the emotionally draining show, they weren’t necessarily the ultimate for her. There’s an emotional win as well. “It’s so rewarding to walk down the street and have people recognize me now,” Tipton says. “They tell me how inspired they are, how much they love me, and how they were rooting for me … It really erases all the negative thoughts I have of seeing myself on the show.” Showing at New York Fashion Week is most designers’ dream, and the exposure needed to launch their career in the fashion industry. With so much on the line, she definitely felt the pressure to break down barriers for the plus size community.

“I couldn’t believe I was getting that close to the show. It was the biggest news I could ever get. At the time, I was still grieving the loss of my grandma and trying to find my purpose in life.” —Ashley Nell Tipton

Tipton’s family, friends and coworkers helped her put a portfolio and outfits “Being the first plus size designer on together for the audition at Bunim/ Project Runway to show at New York Murray Productions. She received great Fashion Week felt so groundbreaking,” feedback from the judges, and then had Tipton says. “I never thought I would be another on-camera interview the following the person to do it, but I wanted it so bad.” day with the network. Less than two If Tipton had never auditioned for the days later they called to tell her she was show, she would still be working to a semi-finalist. A week after that, repay her loan to her uncle. Now, “It’s a lot she was leaving her job styling of tedious with the money from the show, she the window displays and visuals work, but has been able to jump start her at Gap Outlet when she received it’s relaxing. career: She owns a studio and runs a call notifying her that she had I’m able to her own business. And to top it all made it on the show. decompress off, she just signed with JCPenney. while I’m “That was everything,” she says. So, keep an eye out for Tipton’s behind a “I can’t explain that feeling, but looks when window shopping! Can machine it was a reinforcement that I had you say “fabulous?!” working with what it took to do it.” my hands.” Tipton isn’t setting any limits for And from that point on, her life took —Ashley Nell her career. She’s busy pursuing a route for success. Tipton significant opportunities and having meetings with major “I grew up on the show and had to companies. She’s also looking for investors grow thick skin,” she says. “It was a huge for her business since it takes more than learning experience, and I really had to $100,000 to go into production. learn to start thinking on my own because they strip away any outside inspiration With quite a following, she continues to while you’re on the show—this gives you a work on branding her business and being clean canvas to create from.” a positive influence for her fans. She says her fans are very diverse, and her message The show began airing when Tipton was has been to learn to accept each other and back home designing her collection for New love yourself. York Fashion Week and was difficult for her to relive. Since being back home, she has learned to appreciate San Diego even more. “Watching it just reminds [me] of how [I was] feeling in that moment,” she says. “The fact that I’m representing for San “The first and last episodes are the only Diego makes me want to stay here,” she ones I can stand to watch anymore. When I says. “This is home and I’m glad to be in a see myself cry on the show, I start crying.” familiar city.” As the winner of Project Runway, Tipton Be sure to look out for her at Fashion received $100,000 to help launch her Week San Diego in October, seeing as she business. Her winnings also include continues to support other local designers. a luxury cruise, travel and hotel accommodations to destinations around

animal

KINGDOM Getting Wild at the San Diego Zoo

PHOTOGRAPHED BY: TASO PAPADAKIS WRITTEN BY: ALLIE MORENO HAIR BY: RYAN WEEDEN | MAKEUP BY: BRIAN BOND STYLED BY: STYLE BY F.E.A MODELS: CALLIE CATTANEO AND RACHEL ZIMMERMAN, NO TIES MANAGEMENT, www.notiesmanagement.com

The San Diego Zoo may be one of the city’s most well known tourist attractions but that doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s old news. The zoo is constantly adding new attractions, highlighting rare animals, and as always, working tirelessly towards preservation and research on behalf of animals all over the world. They know that the world is changing which is why some of their upgrades include live camera streaming of your favorite exhibits right on their website. Things like this make the San Diego Zoo a lasting attraction for tourists and locals alike.

SAN DIEGO ZOO 2920 Zoo Dr San Diego, CA 92101 619.231.1515 www.zoo.sandiegozoo.org

APPAREL PROVIDED BY: Rachel Zoe www.rachelzoe.com JEWELRY PROVIDED BY: Jonas and Muse www.jonasandmuse.com

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(left) JUMPSUIT PROVIDED BY: Animal Behavior www.weareanimalbehavior.com EARRINGS PROVIDED BY: Studio 12.20 Del Mar Highlands www.studio1220.com BANGLES PROVIDED BY: Jonas and Muse www.jonasandmuse.com (right) DRESS PROVIDED BY: KATYUSHA www.katyusha.world EARRINGS PROVIDED BY: Studio 12.20 Del Mar Highlands www.studio1220.com BANGLES PROVIDED BY: Jonas and Muse www.jonasandmuse.com

GIRAFFES The giraffes are long time residents of the zoo, known for being around since 1938. You can find these longnecked friends at the Urban Jungleâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; and you can even participate in feedings by purchasing giraffe biscuits. As usual, the funds raised by the feedings go directly to conservation and support the restoration and protection of animals in both Kenya and Uganda. Make the day extra special with not just photo ops, but a real, personal interaction all while supporting a great cause. 68 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

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ZEBRAS Zebras are a must-see at the zoo, with their distinctive stripes that are completely unique to each zebra. The stripe patterns are often used to identify them just as we use fingerprints. If you are learning this for the firs time like we are, the striping pattern is a great defensive characteristic that makes a group of zebras look like one large animal to a predator like a lion or leopard. When you visit, test the theory yourself and see how many you can count. LOCALE MAGAZINE | 71

GALAPAGOS TORTOISES The Galapagos exhibit is one of the San Diego Zoo’s pride and joys given that it’s one of the largest colonies of Galapagos tortoises anywhere in the world. With 16 tortoises spanning 5 subspecies, these gentle creatures are some of the oldest inhabitants of the zoo, dating all the way back to 1928. 72 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

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APPAREL PROVIDED BY: Amanda Bond Malibu www.amandabondmalibu.com JEWELRY PROVIDED BY: Jonas and Muse www.jonasandmuse.com

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SEA LIONS The always popular sea lions are only one of the star species featured in the zooâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s daily Centennial Show, in honor of the San Diego Zooâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 100th birthday. These guys are like the dogs of the ocean, highly intelligent and well-trained, they always put on a great show. You can catch them at the new Centennial Show, and if you have little ones, stay afterward for a special event with costume characters and a giant birthday cake. LOCALE MAGAZINE | 75

FLAMINGOS When you find your way around the park you will come upon a body of water, inhabited by a community of flamingos. Their bright pink color never ceases to catch the attention of guests and make you stop for a photo. What you may not know, is that there’s something called a Backstage Pass program that will allow you to touch and even help train flamingos and other animals—you’ll get insider info and stories while also continuing to support conservation efforts. 76 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

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STYLE/BEAUTY

Three For One: A second space located within Liberty Station entitled Moniker General opened in March 2016. In collaboration with the Moniker Group, this second concept space combines HOLD, Lone Flag’s newest brand, coffee from Moniker Coffee Co. and brews from 32 North Brewing Co. Located directly across from the Stone Brewery tasting room, customers can make a day out of perusing all three aspects. The Perfect Pair: Sam’s wife, Kelli, owns and operates a children’s brand entitled Rylee & Cru. Clothing for this brand is designed and manufactured in Los Angeles.

Wave the LONE FLAG Makes an Impression in San Diego WRITTEN BY: JEANNETTE SWANSON

Flag Æ Sam Larson and his wife Kelli planted the pioneering seed for a menswear boutique in North County “not because it was a smart idea to do so, but because it just wasn’t there,” Sam explains.

Located within the Flower Hill Promenade in Del Mar, Lone Flag offers San Diego men a carefully curated menswear shopping experience. Since opening in 2013, Lone Flag has cleverly filled a void for men who expect more from their clothing. Men in cities such as San Francisco or New York City rarely have to stray more than a few blocks to find a boutique with a curated selection of menswear clothing and, up until 2013, this type of clothing just couldn’t be found in San Diego. 78 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

What’s immediately clear about this shop are its unmatched aesthetic qualities and atmosphere. While a department store with endless racks of clothing can be overwhelming, Lone Flag’s environment is warm and inviting. Clean white walls with minimal shelving feature supplementary lifestyle items and a friendly staff can be found at the shop’s center around a fashionable butcher-block type table. A shopper at Lone Flag will also find a fine selection of complementary items to pair with their basic core apparel. These supplementary lifestyle items may include a stainless steel pen, periodical, and messenger bag. Sam and his team tend to ignore what styles are trending at the

moment and instead focus their attention on what’s happening in terms of longevity. “My guess is that if you wear a white fitted Oxford, 10 years from now you’re never going to look back and wonder, ‘Why did I have a white fitted Oxford?’ But there’s probably a point in time where a white Oxford with pink polka dots is going to be cool and that’s fine, but it won’t have longevity,” Sam points out.

In a store where 99 percent of store merchandise is geared toward men, 50 percent of the store’s customer base are surprisingly women: “There’s a ton of women who probably wish that the guys in their lives dressed better,” Sam says. Another draw to Lone Flag is their in-store tailoring. Most of their shirts and tops are already tailored, but denim can be a whole other ball game. This issue of perfectly fitting pants is solved by custom hemming a pair of denim to a customer’s desire.

The Changing Times: 30 to 40 percent of Lone Flag’s business is conducted online. About 90 percent of that number is out-ofstate and the rest is international including Japan, Australia and Europe.

LONE FLAG 2690 Via De La Valle Ste D140 Del Mar, CA 92014 858.793.0712 www.loneflag.co

“It’s a little nerdy, but for most guys that are used to buying cheaper pairs, you’re just living in this world where you’re this 32-inch inseam, where the reality is that most people aren’t the even numbers that you get from a cheaper pair,” Sam explains. The first rate service doesn’t cease there. Sam makes sure that his staff is knowledgeable about their premium products, much more so than you’d find at a department store; each staff member will know the fit, function, sourcing and just about any other element about any piece in the store. With knowledge also comes honesty: The Lone Flag staff isn’t afraid to suggest another item for a customer if they feel it’s necessary. Attention to detail and dedication to style are what sets Lone Flag apart and keeps customers coming back for more.

A GLIMPSE INTO THE CUSTOMIZED, COMMUNITY-DRIVEN BOUTIQUES

WRITTEN BY: MELISSA MITCHELL

What exactly is the stuff communities are made of? Sure it’s the people and the location, but it’s also the places and the feeling elicited by seeing, walking in, and reminiscing about those places. And we all know there is one category of places where you can actually bring a little piece of them home with you: the shops! If you’re visiting San Diego’s North Park or South Park, you’ll likely find yourself overwhelmed by the plethora of shop names and storefronts, each one more unique than the next. We’ve collected all the mustvisit shopping-bag-fillers you need to drop by while visiting these two neighboring hoods.

Along with their already-established array of apparel are a line of custom t-shirts featuring none other than their trusty hood: North Park.

THE GIRL CAN’T HELP IT

north park

3806 Grim Ave San Diego, CA 92014 619.795.7169 etsy.com/shop/thegirlcanthelpitusa

Where can you find burlesque dancers, collectible Hawaiian shirts and never worn vintage swimsuits? None other than North Park’s premier vintage boutique, The Girl Can’t Help It, which specializes in garments from the Golden Age of Hollywood. This vintage glam shop around the corner features an array of handpicked pieces from the 1930s to 1960s, with some 70s inspired items mixed in.

HUNT AND GATHER 2871 University Ave San Diego, CA 92104 619.297.3040 | huntandgathershop.com

THE FRESH YARD 3773 30th St San Diego, CA 92104 619.287.1980 | thefreshyard.com

Home to contemporary streetwear with hip hop and pop culture influences, patrons typically already know what they’re looking for when they enter this swag establishment. Along with their already-established array of apparel are a line of custom t-shirts featuring none other than their trusty hood: North Park.

OVERLOAD 3827 30th St San Diego, CA 92104 619.296.9018 shopoverload.com

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What’s In a Name? Wondering how The Girl Can’t Help It got its unique name? The store co-owner’s friends used to quote Gail’s favorite Little Richard song saying “The Girl Can’t Help It” in reference to her perpetual desire to collect things. It’s a good thing for the patrons of North Park that Gail couldn’t kick that habit!

Fresh Yard, Fresh Beer: One of The Fresh Yard’s latest neighborhood friendly custom tees reads “Drink Beer in North Park” with a backdrop of the famous North Park water tower. Locals can literally display their community pride right on their backs in these North Park-lovin tees!

You won’t find the unique, interesting pieces housed at Hunt and Gather in any mall or chain store. This North Park mart offers a mixture of both vintage and local exclusive designs. Along with the abundance of fresh clothing for men and women, you’ll find a few specially selected pieces for the kiddos! As if Hunt and Gather’s merchandise isn’t enough to keep patrons coming back for more, they’ve also been known to host live DJ parties as well as an array of outdoor sales you won’t want to miss.

If you’re in the market for some hard-to-find, extraordinary, limited edition sneakers (aren’t we all?) then a visit to Overload needs to be on your todo list. Along with their unique kicks is an array of skateboard apparel and streetwear fashion for both men and women.

Top Pick!: One of Hunt and Gather’s big sellers is a jewelry line, Serene, featuring the noteworthy creations of a local artist. Comprised of both up-cycled and new materials, these oneof-a-kind pieces are worth a looksee at this North Park boutique!

Celebrity Overload! Skateboard legend Nyjah Huston stunned patrons during his latest visit to Overload. Check their website regularly for upcoming athlete-inspired visits and events!

GRAFFITI BEACH 2220 Fern St San Diego, CA 92104 858.433.0950 shopgraffitibeach.com

From dresses to trucker hats for infants, to fashion forward dog collars, there is literally something for the entire family at Graffiti Beach. Built on the notion of supporting local artisans and designers, Graffiti Beach hosts monthly art shows spotlighting neighborhood artists. Can’t make it to the store? Check out their full service website which allows you to shop their exclusive products straight from your computer!

Name that Beach: The name Graffiti Beach grew from the notion of an artist’s path to creation. “Graffiti” symbolizes the wild, angst feeling that artists go through during the process of art creation, while “beach” embodies the peacefulness and calm of the finished product.

south park

BRAKE AND RUMBLE 2209 30th St San Diego, CA 92104 619.746.1506 | brakeandrumble.com

This automotive related specialty shop has everything from vintage clothing and boots to hot rodinspired apparel. Though small in size, the shop proportions speak nothing to the many wonders to behold inside. In addition to the niche clothing and jewelry, you’ll also find an assortment of art and rugs inside this humble abode. As faithful participants in the quarterly South Park Walkabout, you can be sure to encounter unique pop up booths at Brake and Rumble which spotlight local artisans. At present, this one-ofa-kind shop is featuring a local designer who creates custom shifter knobs for hot rods!

Hear that Trolley Rumble: In the early 1900s, a trolley used to run right through the corner of the storefront, with trolley tickets being sold right amidst Brake and Rumble’s locale. From its vintage merchandise to its historic location, this boutique is overflowing with nostalgia!

CROW THIEF 3009 Grape Street San Diego, CA 92102 619.961.6210 | crowthief.com

JUNC LIFE 2209 Fern St San Diego, CA 92104 619.283.2611 | junclife.com

From hummingbird skull jewelry to timeless men’s and women’s apparel, Junc has been keeping South Park styled for the past 13 years. Ladies, if you’re looking for something casual and classic with an easy, feminine vibe, the inventory at Junc has got you covered! Gents who are in the market for relaxed streetwear with a Colorado-esque feel (swoon!) are probably already regulars at this South Park centerpiece.

Creepy Junc-tion: On your next jaunt to Junc, be sure to inquire about the ‘creepy cabinet’ where you’ll find everything from metal wisdom teeth jewelry to taxidermy art!

Custom craftsmanship is the foundation behind this South Park menswear shop. Whether you’re shopping for shirts, pants, leather goods or cologne, Crow Thief strives to provide a product tailored to the individual’s style and frame. As if Crow Thief’s motto of ‘We don’t follow trends, we follow instinct” isn’t enough to steer you into the store, their attention to detail will keep you coming back for more! Visit their website to shop some of their hottest items, some of which feature their everintricate insignia.

Keep it Local: The custom pieces in this one-stop-shop for men are not only sold in stores, but are also designed and cut inside the shop as well! Talk about taking “keeping it local” to the next level! LOCALE MAGAZINE | 83

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

THE

GLOSS-ARY

GET YOUR LOOK ON POINT WITH THESE BEAUTY AND FITNESS TIPS

WRITTEN BY: MELISSA MITCHELL & GINA MAGNUSON PHOTOGRAPHED BY: NOBLE ANDREWS STYLED BY: SHAHNAZ ZARIF MAKEUP BY: BRIAN BOND | HAIR BY: KRISTEE TAMULIS MODEL: LIZ MITTRA OF WILHELMINA, www.wilhelmina.com

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Creating your short list of summer essentials? We went straight to the experts to round up the freshest products and styles for every occasion. Want to sport a fresh face and tousled hair this summer with the best of them? We’ve got you covered with products and everything that’s hot right now. From skincare to haircare, brunch to lunch, we’ve laid out a user friendly lookbook for the fit and fashion-conscious!

LOCALE MAGAZINE | 85

STYLE EXPERT

GETTING

FRAMED?

THAT SOUNDS LIKE A JOB FOR PARKER, WARBY PARKER

n the world of Dave Gilboa, the expression making a spectacle of yourself takes on a whole new meaning. After misplacing his glasses on a backpacking trip and blurrily facing the reality of the replacement bill, Dave and his three friends, Neil Blumenthal, Jeff Raider and Andy Hunt decided to take matters into their own hands and revamp the world of eyewear. From necessity grew the brilliant invention of a cost-effective, convenient, and ultrastylish eyewear brand that we can’t take our eyes off of today: Warby Parker. This at home try-on, online-origin eyewear enterprise now has a spattering of store locations, a ton of fresh designs and . . . a new line of sunglasses! Here’s to lookin’ at you, Dave!

DAVE GILBOA & NEIL BLUMENTHAL FOUNDERS OF WARBY PARKER

As I sat wearing my Wilkie frames in color: sugar maple, I could hardly contain my excitement knowing I was about to speak with one of the creators of this visionary brand. Dave and co. completely transformed the eyewear arena for the better with the creation of their eye-mazing company. With a convenient in-home try on process, you can select a handful of frames online and try them on (for free!) right in your homes. Repeat the process until you’ve found the frames of your dreams (with so many homerun designs, it won’t take long!) and simply send the rest back, identify your selection and email in your prescription. You’ll be rocking chic (and affordable) eyewear in no time. Reluctant about online eyewear shopping or worried your order will get lost in cyberspace? Speaking from experience, we can say with certainty that the staff at Warby Parker will see to it that you’re completely satisfied. Dave assures us that customer satisfaction has always been high on their

WARBY PARKER 4465 La Jolla Village Dr Ste H5 San Diego, CA 92122 858.224.9977 www.warbyparker.com 86 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

list. At the forefront of this undertaking, the WP creators knew they wanted to make a business that they were proud of, and ensuring that both their employees and customers were treated the way they would want to be treated was at the top of their list. Warby Parker’s customer satisfaction and approval ratings speak for themselves with numbers consistently soaring above average. For those of you who are in it for the storefronts, Warby Parker stores are starting to pop up all over! Southern Californians couldn’t be happier about a store location opening in Dave’s hometown, San Diego. What’s ahead for Warby Parker? With a new sunglasses line out in time for summer and some new, innovative crystal based frames, it’s safe to predict that WP’s future will be quite long (and clearly visible). Whether you’re in the market for near-sighted or far specs, need progressive lenses or sunglasses, Warby Parker is the perfect sight for our sore eyes.

DAVE’S FAVE While Dave couldn’t necessarily narrow down a favorite (we don’t blame him, they’re all amaze!) he couldn’t hide his excitement for the newly created Haskell specs. These fresh frames are offered in a variety of colors, including several twotoned, crystal based options that are eyestyle trailblazers!

NATIVE KNOWLEDGE So, who is this Mr. Warby Parker and, more importantly, who gave him that intriguing name? Truth be told, the name Warby Parker came from a combination of character names coined by one of the spec-cellent cofounders’ favorite authors, Jack Kerouac. Spawned from the fictional characters, Warby Pepper and Zag Parker, our beloved Warby Parker was brought to life. We envision him as being a handsomely intellectual gent with exceptional eyewear — sound about right, Dave?

NEXT SPECS Along with the ever changing glasses and sunnies that keep rolling out, WP continues to streamline its already-efficient service model. At present, their wheels are turning behind the lens to generate a more mobilefriendly website so consumers can access everything Warby Parker with ease from their smartphones. Just when we thought these guys couldn’t make it any easier on us!

PAIR SHARE Did you know that Warby Parker partners with nonprofit organizations to facilitate a Buy-a-Pair, Give-a-Pair program? Yep, for each pair of specs sold, they’ll give away a pair of frames to a person in need of eyewear. At $95 a pair, they’re practically giving them away to us (#amiright?!).

Bathing

BEAUTIES WET AND WILD SUMMER WARDROBE

With a variety of swim trends to choose from this summer, you can bare it all or still maintain a sexy look with a cut-out onepiece. Sauvage Swimwear is stocked with every print from geometric to boho. Show off your summer bod in some ultra mod, barely-there ‘kini bottoms that’ll maximize head turns and minimize tan lines! And let’s not forget halter-tops—these are having their moment in the sun right now. High-cut halters are supportive, offer more coverage, and are flattering on women of all sizes. SWIMSUITS PROVIDED BY: Sauvage Swimwear www.sauvagewear.com SUNGLASSES PROVIDED BY: Ray Ban www.ray-ban.com/usa HAT PROVIDED BY: Madison Boutique madisonlosangeles.com

KIMONO PROVIDED BY: Nicole Miller San Diego www.nicolemillersd.com JEWELRY PROVIDED BY: Nicole Miller San Diego www.nicolemillersd.com Sauvage Swimwear www.sauvagewear.com

Warby Parker’s customer satisfaction and approval ratings speak for themselves with numbers consistently soaring above average. PHOOTSHOOT LOCATION: L’AUBERGE DEL MAR 1540 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, CA 92014 888.734.7930 | www.laubergedelmar.com

STYLE EXPERT

HAT

TRICK

MARIA SHARES STYLE SECRETS FOR ALL OF YOUR ABOVE-THE-BROW NEEDS e’re tipping our hats with the greatest of precision to fashion stylist and renowned hat judge, Maria Von Losch. There is so much history and tradition behind those big-brimmed hats that we see in glorious overabundance at the race tracks and we jumped at the opportunity to dish with the gal who gets a front row view of these shady statement pieces. As local stylist, blogger (Saavy Nista), shop owner and overall fashion aficionado, Maria’s expertise paired perfectly with the hat-judging arena. Whether you’re spending the day at the races or just looking to vamp up your wardrobe, this gal’s got the 411 on everything headwear and beyond.

MARIA VON LOSCH STYLIST; HAT JUDGE; CREATOR OF THE BLOG SAAVY NISTA

MARIA VON LOSCH www.savvynista.com 88 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

Maria’s affinity for hats spawned from her overarching passion for accessories in general. A firm believer in donning a generally neutral outfit and then dressing it up with add-ons, Maria loves styling up her blank slates with hats and accessories of all sorts. With a history of owning a vintage clothing store and ample experience in the styling, beauty, branding, and marketing departments, she was well equipped to pull some serious judging skills out of her hat (#wehadto). Given Maria’s wealth of chin to brim couture knowledge, it’s no surprise that she has been asked to judge headwear at Del Mar’s opening day races repeatedly. This year’s opening day is no exception, but Maria is also serving up a little something extra in the name of tradition and pomp. Along with her hat judging duties, Maria will be compiling a style trends roundup to be released prior to race day which will guide patrons in incorporating spring and summer trends into their race day ensembles. All styles will exude the latest looks with inspiration from 20s and 30s race day couture—winning combination!

Race day aside, it’s no secret that hats of all sorts are currently having a moment for men and women alike. Maria notes that the most gendertranscending cap is the fedora, that can be stylishly donned by both gents and ladies. What’s our style expert sporting above the neck these days? When it comes to headwear, Maria’s keeping Lack of Color over-sized brim felt hats in rotation for a boho-chic flair. Maria describes her daily personal style as a mix of vintage and boho-chic street wear. It’s a safe bet that she’ll be sporting this season’s hottest colors that she was kind enough to disclose: heather grey, navy, army green, and camel. When Maria’s not styling her customers or herself in hats, she likes to keep it fresh abovethe-neck with head bands and fun hairstyles like crown braids and fishtails. Maria, hats off to you for keeping us in the know on the latest styles, both north and south of our noses. Your tips and tricks from race day judgings are sure to leave our futurecontestant readers ahead of the curve!

NATIVE KNOWLEDGE Contestants beware! The competition just got a lot more fierce because (you heard it here first, folks!) style star and hat judge Maria Von Losch is planning

to enter this year’s competition! That’s right, Maria’s raising the brim by creating her very own design for race day entry. Back to the drawing board, people, we’ve got a style star in the running!

BEAUTY EXPERTS

RYAN WEEDEN OWNER OF SALON SPRUCE

GLAM SQUAD GOALS YOUR BEST HAIR DAY u Owner of Salon Spruce and stylist extraordinaire, Ryan Weeden, clued us in on summer’s hottest hair color and styles for SoCal babes, with balayage, “bronde” coloring and slept-in styles at the forefront.

SALON SPRUCE 7655 Girard Ave Ste 118 La Jolla, CA 92037 858.888.0087 | www.salonspruce.com

ANNIE FINCH CEO OF KATHERINE COSMETICS

MAKEUP DONE RIGHT THIS SEASONS SIZZLING GLAM TIPS u Best summer makeup tricks of the trade? Katherine Cosmetics CEO Annie Finch says it’s all about concealer vs. foundation and eyeliner in lieu of a smoky eye. Keeping our summer faces in line with our airy wardrobe, Annie recommends that we keep it fresh and light above the neck this season.

LAST-MINUTE PRODUCTS YOU CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT 1. Ms. Pam Lipstick: Achieve the perfect summer-shimmer with Ms. Pam Lipstick. 2. Courtney Lipstick: Want a nude lip hue to wear everyday? Katherine Cosmetics’ Courtney A+ Friends Lipstick is the perfect Monday-Sunday lip lift to sport on the daily. 3. MAC: Looking for the perfect sun-protector and moisturizer for summer? MAC’s Lightful C Marine-Bright Formula has got us covered— literally! KATHERINE COSMETICS www.katherinecosmetics.com

SUN Diego

DAYWEAR

ALL IN A DAY’S LOOK WITH SEAWEED + GRAVEL

Solve your daily wardrobe dilemma with something effortless and chic. With a fresh mix of new and vintage clothing and merchandise, Seaweed + Gravel is your one stop shop for everything biking, surfing, art, jewelry and more. Opt for a chill and comfortable look paired with jeans. Whether you’re running errands, picking up coffee or have a meeting for work—you can’t go wrong with this classic look. SEAWEED + GRAVEL 1144 N Coast Hwy 101 Encinitas, CA 92024 www.seaweedandgravel.com

LEATHER JACKET AND HANDBAG PROVIDED BY: Nicole Miller San Diego www.nicolemillersd.com DENIM PROVIDED BY: Fern shopfern.us SHOES PROVIDED BY: On Que www.onquestyle.com

PHOOTSHOOT LOCATION: L’AUBERGE DEL MAR 1540 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, CA 92014 888.734.7930 | www.laubergedelmar.com

STYLE EXPERT

BUTTONING

DISHING ALL ABOUT BOUTONNÉ’S LEATHER GOODNESS ew inanimate objects in life entice as much intrigue and comfort as a finely crafted leather bag. The smell, the look, the rich color, the way they get better and better with every use. They’re timeless pieces that grow and smell dreamier with age. Well San Diegon’s, if you’re walking downtown and you stroll past Erin Pechtel’s working Boutonné studio, you’ll likely pass through an aromatic layer of leather-making goodness. That’s right, all of that oh-so-fine leather magic is produced from start to finish right here in our SoCal backyard.

ERIN PECHTEL CREATOR AND DESIGNER OF BOUTONNÉ

BOUTONNÉ 2690 Via de La Valle Ste D130 Del Mar, CA 92014 www.shopboutonne.com 90 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

I could hear Erin Pechtel smiling through the phone during our exchange, later to find out that her cuddly cavalier king charles pup, Rufus, was snuggled up at her feet, sleeping. You’d never guess it, but this world renowned designer confessed that one of her favorite pastimes is taking naps. We’d be tired too if we single handedly built a successful leather goods company that produces locally, ships worldwide, and was recently picked up by West Elm (ahem!). Erin’s journey to creative success began in 2012 when she returned home to San Diego from Nashville following a tumultuous divorce. Erin turned her described ‘rock bottom’ experience into an opportunity for newness and creativity. This former Anthropologie and Nordstrom employee took her expertise by storm and began creating leather goods. She soon developed her own line that was sketched out, created and sold, all locally, in San Diego. Before she knew it her products caught the eye of local Del Mar store, Lone Flag, who still keep their shelves stocked with Boutonné goods. Over the past few years Erin has watched her brand grow wildly in front of her eyes.

From local stores to transcontinental shipments, it’s safe to say the Boutonné bug has spread like wildfire. Despite Boutonné’s far reaching success, Erin takes pride in the fact that her products are 100 percent California grown. Each piece of material and fabric is purchased in the State of California, and everything is made from start to finish in San Diego. “I love being able to provide jobs to local people and to foster those relationships with neighbors,” Erin says. We couldn’t be happier about being a stone’s throw away from your gorgeous goods! Totes, bucket bags, messenger bags, cinched totes, clutches, iPad cases, wallets, and keychains are a few of the varietals found in an array of materials and colors at Boutonné. Shop Boutonné’s goods right from their website and be sure to stay tuned for all of Erin’s latest creations. Erin was tight lipped about some soonto-be released projects, but she gushed over her excitement about new collabs and making Boutonné more accessible to the masses. Erin’s “we’re just getting started!” attitude offers a glimpse into Boutonné’s long, climbing future of leathermade goodness.

“I love being able to provide jobs to local people and to foster those relationships with neighbors.” — E R I N P ECHT EL

Fitfluential

FASHION

THREADS THAT WON’T MAKE YOU BREAK A SWEAT

THE MILLS: The first Boutonné bag collection was the Mills, which is a mixed-fabric denim and leather line. Mills was named after the maiden name of a woman in Nashville who was great source of inspiration for Erin. Note: if you inspire this woman your name could be on tags all around the globe (#beinspiring!)

THE ELLE: We discovered that Boutonné’s famous Elle tote is named after savvy PR businesswoman and creator of Elle Communications, Danielle Gano. Erin greatly admires Danielle and is inspired by her success and strong business sense — so much so that she #puthernameonit! P.S. We’re starting to think that product-naming is the sincerest form of flattery because, have you seen the Elle tote? Trust us.

NATIVE KNOWLEDGE Wondering how Erin test drives her new designs? She dished that her bags typically end up around the arm of her mother, who gets to swirl, twirl, and give a whirl to the latest Boutonné trends (oh, to have that gig!). To all the readers out there who are reading this and experiencing major #purseenvy: we’re sorry!

BOUTONNÉ: WHAT’S IN A NAME? During a name brand brainstorm session Erin admits that her dad helped pick the name of her beloved brand! The loose French translation means “buttoned up” and is meant to encompass a well-kept individual who enjoys clean lines, attention to detail and a ‘voila’ finishing touch . . . we like the sound of that!

With either of these looks, you can go from productive to chillaxing with ease. Armed with mature cuts and a refined color palette, the gear at YOGASMOGA allows you to easily go from exercising to the rest of your day without feeling like you’re wearing athletic wear. La Vie Boheme Yoga’s 100 percent recycled rubber mat (the Warrior) with microfiber design can be thrown right in your washing machine for easy cleaning—both convenient and aesthetically beautiful! And the Phoenix leggings are definitely the best look for both comfy and cute. YOGASMOGA 7863 Girard Ave La Jolla, CA 92037 858.732.9642 | www.yogasmoga.com LA VIE BOHEME YOGA 800.561.4714 | www.laviebohemeyoga.com

APPAREL PROVIDED BY: Sauvague Swimwear www.sauvagewear.com YOGASMOGA yogasmoga.com La Vie Boheme Yoga laviebohemeyoga.com MAT PROVIDED BY: La Vie Boheme Yoga laviebohemeyoga.com

PHOOTSHOOT LOCATION: L’AUBERGE DEL MAR 1540 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, CA 92014 888.734.7930 | www.laubergedelmar.com

STYLE EXPERT

SHIFTING

GEARS

ALEXIS ANDRA PROVIDES A GLIMPSE INSIDE HER IMAGINATIVE CREATIONS ave you ever walked past a store window and admired the intricately detailed set-up before you? Or paused afront a beautifully set dinner table equipped with tapestries, wall hangings, pristine plating and centerpieces fit for royalty? Whether we’re aware of it or not, the atmosphere of our surroundings impacts our mood and can leave lasting imprints on our memories. We strive to decorate our homes into our own oasis of peace and style, but for most, our vision falls short of the store-window-esque aesthetic that we were going for. Since you can’t buy atmosphere-in-a-box (trust us, we’ve checked), we decided to go straight to the source of Southern California’s premier installation expert and founder of The Shift Creative: Alexis Andra. This curator of ambience is not only taking event design and product styling to the next level, but she’s doing it in a way that’s never been seen before. We’re taking the scenic route to explore Alexis’ threefold company which encompasses installation, event design and product styling.

ALEXIS ANDRA CREATOR OF THE SHIFT CREATIVE

THE SHIFT CREATIVE www.shop.theshiftcreative.com 92 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

What exactly is the basis for this artist’s creations? Alexis’ goal is to shift the design process and the way we look at designs as a whole—hence the name, The Shift Creative. If you want an atmosphere or backdrop that’s never been done before, then your goals and Alexis’ creations will align perfectly. While Alexis loves trends, her aim is to discover her client’s style goals and then execute their vision in a unique way. From art installation backdrops and wedding styling to photo backdrops and window installations, Alexis has got a pretty thick portfolio under her belt. Where does this inspirationoverflowing individual channel her inspo from? Alexis’ imagination comes to life when she works with a variety of different fabrics and materials. Natural fibers, mixedmedia installations, wood, concrete, yarn, wool, metals—the limitless possibilities are a testament to the scope of Alexis’ crafty enterprise. We were dying to know what’s hot right now in

the decorative design world and Alexis let us in-the-know on all the latest trends. These days it’s all about bohemianmodern which means lots of macrame, indigo, mud cloth pillows and gem tones. Looking for something along those lines to liven up a room of yours? Check out The Shift Creative website where you can purchase some of Alexis’ innovative pieces! Her rope hangings, pillows and tapestries will turn any corner of your room into your new favorite nook. Be sure to take notice of the ambiance at LA’s upcoming Yellow Conference in August, an art-inspired event that’s being designed by none other than Alexis! What sets this design company apart from many others out there? “If you love what you do then you’re going to be driven to create something magical for people,” she says. Alexis, we couldn’t have said it better than you! We’ve shifted our focus your way and we can’t wait to be dazzled by more of your imaginative creations.

“If you love what you do then you’re going to be driven to create something magical for people.” —A LEX IS A N DR A

A Night

ON THE TOWN HOW TO FASHIONABLY WINE AND DINE

If you’re in the market for some hard-to-find Chanel and Valentino luxury pieces, then you’ll be leaving On Que Style with a full shopping bag. From Paris runway looks to the latest Dolce and Gabbana, you’re sure to find that wow-factor piece for your next big night on the town! Want some gourmet cocktails to go with your gourmet look? Head over to Solare and bartender Tommy will fix you up with some refreshingly tasty summertime libations! ON QUE STYLE 2900 East Coast Hwy Corona Del Mar, CA 92625 949.717.7795 | www.onquestyle.com

APPAREL & ACCESSORIES PROVIDED BY: Nicole Miller San Diego www.nicolemillersd.com

JUST HER IMAGINATION

media installations, wood, concrete, yarn, wool and metals.

Just how does Alexis come up with all of these unique sets? Alexis enjoys working with a variety of mediums to inspire creativity and to push her imagination to run wild. These materials include, but certainly aren’t limited to, natural fibers, mixed-

DOWN TIME

When Alexis isn’t styling up something creative, she loves to travel, lounging around and watching Netflix binges and indulging in chocolate molten cake.

PHOOTSHOOT LOCATION: SOLARE AT LIBERTY STATION 2820 Roosevelt Rd, San Diego, CA 92106 619.270.9670 | www.solarelounge.com

STYLE EXPERT

IN THE

BAG

FROM SIGNATURE STYLE TO DESIGN INSPO, RM TELLS ALL hen you’ve created a world renowned style brand and it’s named after you, it’s safe to say that your overall fabulousness needs no introduction. Rebecca Minkoff, now a household name, set her sights on New York City at age 18 with big dreams and a grand vision. The San Diego native took off for the big apple and soared straight to the top in the competitive fashion industry. Known most for her deliciously decadent handbags, this couture queen also designs clothing, shoes and accessories of all sorts. Despite her unmatched popularity and successes, she remains humble and enjoys the simple things in life.

REBECCA MINKOFF DESIGNER & CREATOR OF REBECCA MINKOFF

REBECCA MINKOFF www.rebeccaminkoff.com 94 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

So how exactly does someone just head out and make their dreams come true, or, pull a ‘Rebecca Minkoff’? As an aspiring designer from an early age, Rebecca had a clear vision of what she wanted to do and knew there was a particular locale that aligned with her goals: New York City! “I wanted to intern as much as possible and learn everything I could, which I thought could only happen in New York,” she says. Both Rebecca’s designs and personal style are second to none. She’s got an uncanny knack for creating relaxed, boho pieces that simultaneously exude a downtown quality. With such a stunning design palate we had to know where Rebecca draws her style inspo from. “A lot of my designs really come from listening to my girlfriends and knowing what it is that I want to wear and feel comfortable in,” she says. I guess it’s no surprise that Rebecca rolls with a pretty stylish crew (#canwebefriends?). As a designer, Rebecca strives to create pieces that meet consumers needs and also make their lives easier. We feel the love, RM! Rebecca’s personal go-to outfit combos are

ripped jeans and a silk top or a soft dress with a moto jacket. With comfort high on her list, she keeps it airy and girly with her consistently stylish looks. If you’re in the market for a signature Rebecca Minkoff bag, you won’t be disappointed by the latest styles and bright colors coming down the pike for spring and summer! Still loving your RM arm candy of late but want a little revamp? Rebecca has designed tons of available add-ons (tassels, keychains, stickers, etc.) that’ll give your trusty favorite the arm-lift it needs. When Rebecca’s not designing the next big couture creation, know what her favorite pastime is? “I absolutely love to cook for my family. Cooking with my kids around me and a glass of wine — Heaven,” she says. Hold it — this woman can cook too?! While Rebecca spends most of her time in NYC, she makes it back to San Diego from time to time where she inevitably ends up at the beach. Hear that SoCal natives? If you’re strolling on the beach and you see someone with long, laid back waves, a flowy dress and that signature leather jacket make sure you take a second look!

“A lot of my designs really come from listening to my girlfriends and knowing what it is that I want to wear and feel comfortable in.” — R E BECCA M IN KO F F

“I wanted my consumers to know there was a human being—a woman just like them, who wanted the same things as they did behind the brand.” — R EB ECCA MI NKO FF

Brunch

STYLE-HUNCH BIG STYLE IN A SMALL PACKAGE u A customer favorite that’s stood out amongst the rest is Rebecca’s Mini MAC. This Rebecca Minkoff classic keeps re-releasing in a variety of patterns and colors—much to any bag-lover’s delight all over the globe!

LEATHER LOVING One of Rebecca’s signature pieces that’s found in stores year round is the leather moto jacket. Although offered in a variety of colors, the signature jacket is done in black. A new black-on-black edition was recently rolled out in stores with a combination of black leather and hardware—perfect to pair with both gold or silver jewelry! u

REBECCA’S FAVORITE BAG u While Rebecca admits that identifying a favorite bag would be like picking a favorite child

(#thestruggleisreal), she did divulge which arm candy she’s been sporting as of late. Right now she’s loving the Renee saddle bag with studs, but she confesses that her purse-rotation changes every few days. We get it, Rebecca—with so many options, you’ve got to spread the love!

JUST LIKE YOU AND ME So how exactly did Rebecca decide on the eponymous name for her brand that we’ve grown to know and love so affectionately? “I wanted my consumers to know there was a human being—a woman just like them, who wanted the same things as they did behind the brand.” Okay, just when you think you can’t idolize someone any more…! Thanks, Rebecca, but if it’s all the same to you I think we’re destined to view you in a bombshell fashionista superhuman light—but can you blame us? u

FRESH AND FASHIONABLE ALL DAY

The owners of Fern give us their style tips for summer: Start your day with a reviving mist of Coconut+Mint (a best-seller from FERN’s Body Collection) for a flawless “I woke up like this” look. Layering isn’t isolated to cakes and winter-wear. Whether you’re stacking your wrists with some bright patent leather straps, or draping your neck in strings of large colored gemstones, the more luxe the merrier this summer! FERN 978 N Coast Hwy 101 Encinitas, CA 92024 760.487.5478 | www.shopfern.us

APPAREL & JEWELRY PROVIDED BY: Nicole Miller San Diego www.nicolemillersd.com SUNGLASSES PROVIDED BY: Sauvage Swimwear www.sauvagewear.com

PHOOTSHOOT LOCATION: JAKE’S DEL MAR 1660 Coast Blvd, Del Mar, CA 92014 858.755.2002 | www.jakesdelmar.com

STYLE/BEAUTY

UMANSKY MEDICAL CENTER FOR PLASTIC SURGERY 4150 Regents Park Row La Jolla, CA 92037 858.550.9697 www.drumansky.com

Summertime Surger-Ease

Top 2 Summer Procedures: 1.

CoolSculpting

Cosmetic Surgeon Dr. Jeffrey Umansky’s Go-To Procedures and Regimens

SculpSure

WRITTEN BY: LAUREN VILLA

Q: How long have you been a cosmetic surgeon? Dr. Jeffrey Umansky: I’ve been a cosmetic surgeon for ten years. My dad was a plastic surgeon and he retired a few years ago. There was a point when all three of us—my brother, my dad, and I worked in the same office but had our own practices. Currently, I share an office with my brother and I took over my dad’s practice. I don’t know if it’s a genetics thing or if I was just comfortable with plastic surgery because I saw it all the time or if it’s just what I was into, but that’s what I decided to pursue.

We caught up with DR. JEFFREY UMANSKY to find out the best beauty tips for this season. If you’re thinking about touching up a few areas before you hit the beach this summer, check out master tips from one of the best in the business. You will be bikini body ready in no time! 96 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

Q: What drew you to La Jolla to open your practice? JU: I grew up in San Diego. I love the City. I enjoy the outdoors and being around health conscious people. I think San Diego has a lot of that. I had the opportunity to join my dad and brother, and I wanted to work with them, so I returned to San Diego after my training. Q: What beauty tips do you have for people as they prepare for the beach, summer travel and general fun in the sun? JU: I would say sunscreen is a huge thing that people need to use and be mindful of. Sun damage is definitely something that is delayed in life. You don’t see it in your 20’s, but if you get a lot of sun

cells with the laser. The human body exposure in your 20’s and 30’s you’ll pay can only handle about 20 percent at a for it as you age. Also, diet and exercise time and you often have to repeat these are always going to be huge. As the treatments to get at the desired results. summer months are taking place I think that’s a great opportunity to take care of Q: What treatments do you offer at your body, and there are ways to do it your practice to help people get ready that are non-invasive. Obviously in the for bathing suit season? summer people are not as anxious to JU: I do a lot of breast augmentation have surgeries that require healing and mommy makeovers which because it’s warmer and they “As the summer means a tummy tuck along want to be out in the sun. Most with some sort of breast months people get surgeries in the spring are taking procedure whether it’s a breast to prepare for summer. But if you place I think lift or augmentation or both. missed that boat you can still do that’s a great Liposuction is pretty popular opportunity the surgeries. If you are looking in prep for bikini season. Our to take care of for something less invasive, laser center offers laser hair your body, and SculpSure and CoolSculpting are removal—so a lot of people like there are ways options as well. Botox and fillers to have that done as well. to do it that are are good summertime options too. non-invasive.” Q: What is the number one —Dr. Jeffrey Q: What is SculpSure and health mistake you see people Umansky CoolSculpting? make here in California? JU: They are both non-invasive JU: Focusing too much on modalities to eliminate stubborn areas exercise and not enough on diet. I think of fat. The CoolSculpting freezes the fat. people are often trying to lose weight A little suction cup draws the skin and and get in shape and they work out and fat into the suction cup and it stays work out. And unfortunately they keep on for an hour or so. Over time, the eating more than is necessary to shed dead fat gets absorbed by the body and the weight. excreted. The whole process takes about Q: What are your top tips to stay six to eight weeks to start seeing results. healthy this summer? SculpSure is a laser. The applicator is on JU: Diet, exercise, and laughter—have a the outside of the body but shoots laser good time! energy through the skin. It does not hurt the skin and helps kill some of the fat

PHOTO BY: Arielle Levy

go /do

JUNE

2016

100 COVER STORY Extra host Mario Lopez talks family, work and finding balance in it all

108 THE LOT The LOT is San Diego’s Luxury Cinema

111 GO/DO EXPERTS San Diego’s leading ladies in business

116 THAT’S WHAT HE SAID Dive into the Straight Up Gayest San Diego Bar Crawl

122 MUSIC PROFILE The Observatory Manager Ryan Blank is the Key to the Venue’s Success

126 BRITNEY EURTON

122

MUSIC PROFILE Seeing Stars

THE OBSERVATORY NORTH PARK 2891 University Ave San Diego, CA 92104 619.239.8836 www.observatorysd.com

TVG Horse Racing Analyst Britney Eurton Takes Us Around the Track

128 PRO JOCKEY MIKE SMITH Go Around the Track with Famed Jockey Mike Smith

JUNE 2016

Ring the BEll EXTRA HOST MARIO LOPEZ HAS COME A LONG WAY SINCE SAVED BY THE BELL

WRITTEN BY: ELIZABETH NUTT | PHOTOGRAPHED BY: GIL COPE STYLED BY: MANUEL PARRA | GROOMING BY: RODNEY RINKS

100 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

MARIO LOPEZ @mariolopezextra

SHIRT PROVIDED BY: Richer Poorer www.richer-poorer.com JEANS PROVIDED BY: Big Star www.bigstardenim.com WATCH PROVIDED BY: Ulysse Nardin, Swiss Watch Gallery and Fine Jewelers at The Shops at Mission Viejo www.swisswatchgallery.com

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“I want to be the Latin Dick Clark, and I want to be in the business for the next 50 years. I want to be part of American pop culture and I want to be in your family room for years to come.” —MARIO LOPEZ

SHIRT PROVIDED BY: Levi's www.levi.com JEANS PROVIDED BY: Levi's www.levi.com WATCH PROVIDED BY: Ulysse Nardin, Swiss Watch Gallery and Fine Jewelers at The Shops at Mission Viejo www.swisswatchgallery.com

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You know more about Mario Lopez than you think you do; that is, if you’ve watched an episode of Saved by the Bell, which, let’s face it, you have. Everyone in America has. A.C. Slater, the character he played for roughly seven years on the show, mirrored the real-life Mario. The dimple-faced, smooth-talking and charming adolescent jock with an affinity for dancing, wrestling and playing the drums was all Mario. Which means that anyone who tuned in to the 80s and 90s sitcom essentially had the privilege of watching Mario Lopez grow up. And grow up he did; today, he’s the father of two children with wife Courtney Mazza, he’s a celebrated host on Extra, and it seems there’s almost nothing under the entertainment industry sun that he hasn’t accomplished.

Mario recently turned 40, which means he’s done a little reflecting on his life thus far— enough reflecting to fill the pages of his first memoir, Just Between Us. “After I turned 40, it’d been 30 years in the business, which started when I was a kid at age 10, so I just sort of wanted to talk about all the transitions that happened in my life, what went on personally and professionally,” says Mario. “I thought it was a good point in my life to sort of pause and think about how I got where I am.” It was a good exercise, albeit a challenging one, as a litany of significant experiences got him where he is today. Mario Lopez was one of those rare child stars who, rather than fizzling out in his twenties or thirties, was able to find continuous success in the industry. Over the years, Mario has dabbled in everything from film and radio to Broadway and hosting. And, along the way, he found love with wife Courtney, and together they’ve navigated the initial years of parenthood (his daughter Gia is 5, and his son Dominic is 2). “I get really vulnerable and open myself up for the first time ever,” Mario adds of his memoir. Of course, the story must begin with Saved by the Bell. Mario was raised in Chula Vista, California, and his mother, who worked for a phone company, ensured that there was plenty for him to do. “My mom kept me busy in different activities to stay active and occupy my time,

104 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

because in my neighborhood there were opportunities to get in trouble. So she put me in wrestling, karate, theater, dancing, anything,” he says. And he’ll tell you that at age 10 when someone approached his mother and encouraged Mario to audition for the role of A.C. Slater, it was just another activity. “I wasn’t shy, so I just sort of fell into it, but really, I would’ve been just as happy doing something else. It was just like having a cool summer job,” he says. Looking back, Mario realizes that the show served as a platform for his thriving career in the entertainment industry, but he’s also certain that a solid work ethic and the decision not to take anything for granted has led him to success as well. When Saved by the Bell wrapped, Mario fought to stay relevant, proactively seeking out a diverse range of experiences and work opportunities. He cites American radio and television personality Dick Clark as one of his greatest mentors, and someone that continues to inspire him today. “Dick Clark had a huge influence on me in terms of how to look at myself as a brand and being able to be in things for the long run,” Mario says. And it has been a long run for the actor, singer, dancer and host, who has appeared on everything from Pacific Blue and Dancing with the Stars, to The X Factor and Grease Live over the past few decades.

SHIRT PROVIDED BY: Richer Poorer www.richer-poorer.com JEANS PROVIDED BY: John Varvatos www.johnvarvatos.com

THE GOOD GUY: “I go to church every week with my family or by myself. If not, the Catholic guilt gets on.” MARIO’S FAVORITE LA-AREA HANGOUTS? 1. My friend Caruso’s spots, The Grove and Glendale Americana 2. Frida Mexican Cuisine for mariachi brunch 3. Wild Card Boxing gym

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“I thought it was a good point in my life to sort of pause and think about how I got where I am.” — M A R I O LO P E Z

Of course, he’s well known, too, for his sculpted physique. In 2008, he was named People magazine’s “Hottest Bachelor,” and that same year, he released his first book: Mario Lopez’s Knockout Fitness. Mario’s gone on to pen two other bestsellers—Extra Lean and Extra Lean Family—through which he divulges favorite recipes, nutrition tips and his secrets to staying trim and strong despite his busy schedule. “Working out and fitness are essential to my life because it allows me to destress and take out all my anxiety. It helps me stay balanced,” he says. And it also helps him continue to acquire fans, especially those that tune in devotedly on weekdays to watch him on Extra. Mario’s found his niche as a host on the nationally syndicated entertainment show, and it’s a role he relishes. For Mario, one of the job’s perks is that he gets to pal around with the likes of Julia Roberts and the cast of Game of Thrones, and he’s even had the opportunity to interview presidential hopefuls this year. “I get to just be myself, and it’s what I love to do. I like people, and I just love meeting people from all walks of life,” he says. Though Mario seems to have done it all, perhaps his most coveted role to date is that of the Family Man; some of the most fulfilling and exciting moments in his life have happened with his family, in the form of birthdays and baptisms. Mario’s just as likely to be spotted in front of the camera as he is dropping off Gia and Dominic at ballet or Jujutsu classes. On weekends, he can be found hanging out with his family at their pool, hiking or having dance parties at home. Mario says that fatherhood has changed him for the better, that it complements

every aspect of his life, and that it’s encouraged him to work even harder.

MOST COVETED ROLE: Mario says that fatherhood has changed him for the better, that it complements every aspect of his life, and that it’s encouraged him to work even harder.

BUSINESS MAN: Casa Mexico Tequila supplied tequila for Mario and Courtney's 2012 wedding weekend, and soon after, he partnered with the company. "It was just a fun sort of venture," Mario says. "So, I said why not? I'm a huge tequila fan."

“I was blessed with great parents who were very supportive, and they instilled in me a strong work ethic. But once I had my own family, it just kind of went to another level,” says Mario. “I try to create opportunities for myself. There’s so much going on, and every minute is accounted for.” Mario has even successfully translated his love for tequila into a business opportunity. He was introduced to Casa Mexico Tequila just before his December 2012 wedding to Courtney in Mexico, and the company ended up supplying tequila for the entire wedding weekend. “It was a huge hit. The founder and I hit it off, and he approached me, and it was just a fun sort of venture, so I said why not? I’m a huge tequila fan and it’s a big part of my culture,” says Mario, who partnered with the company shortly after his nuptials. When he does take a moment’s rest, he can be found on vacation in Mexico with his family, or poolside at home with a Casa Mexico Tequila margarita in hand. But, in true Mario fashion, he won’t pause for very long, and he’s got plenty of ambition stored up for the next few decades. “I want to be the Latin Dick Clark, and I want to be in the business for the next 50 years. I want to be part of American pop culture and I want to be in your family room for years to come,” he says.

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GO/DO

THE LOT La Jolla 7611 Fay Ave La Jolla, CA 92037 858.777.0069 Liberty Station 2620 Truxtun Rd San Deigo, CA 92106 619.566.0069 www.thelotent.com

POPCORN & MARTINIS THERE IS A LOT TO DO HERE

an Diego’s cinema scene has been revamped by CEO and Owner of The LOT, Adolfo Fastlicht. Date nights and entertaining excursions are now a luxurious culinary adventure thanks to these premier cinemas. With locations in La Jolla and Liberty Station, there is no shortage of luxury and entertainment across San Diego. 108 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

Q: What is your vision for your company, The LOT? Adolfo Fastlicht: It's three things as one concept: "lifestyle, experience, entertainment." It's much broader than cinema, offering a unique venue for our patrons. We're bringing coffee, culture, fine dining, and the "happening" bar to premium cinema. We created this atmosphere where people can enjoy themselves. Some clients come for coffee, others for drinks, others for dinner and a movie and others for all of the above. Q: Why movie theaters? What about this particular venue excites you? AF: My intention was to redefine cinema insofar as creating a concept, which is more of overall lifestyle entertainment. We see ourselves as a boutique operator creating whole environments in an atypical destination. We're not going to be in run-of-the-mill shopping centers—we're going to unique communities, like La Jolla or Liberty Station, where we believe we can make a difference.

WRITTEN BY: JACQUELINE BRYANT PHOTOGRAPHED BY: SARAH NAIL

Our cinemas are intended to be community oriented. We want our patrons to adopt the locations as if it's their own. We are inspired by romance, the craft movement, and creativity— it's in our DNA. Q: Are you working off of a specific template as you multiply? AF: Yes and no. The LOT is really a curated experience. Everything is planned out and intentionally hand-selected, with a purpose. No two locations will have the same art, or the same layout, though there are overall themes. Even the plates are one-of-a-kind! Q: Why San Diego? AF: San Diego is emerging from being a sleepy, relaxed city to becoming an innovative city on many fronts. We believe that we're on the forefront of creating a dynamic lifestyle brand identity that runs with the overall feeling in San Diego right now. San Diego is also filled with unique spaces, like Liberty Station, for example. I fell in love with the onset of history and naval

architecture, but because Liberty Station is revamping, to be able to create something new in an older space. We love to mix old with new to create something different and original. I think Stone Brewing Co. paved the way for what we're able to do, and that's uniquely San Diego. Q: What's next? Where to? AF: We envision to grow the company over time. Right now, we have a California strategy. I believe California, in particular, is right for our concept because, of course, there are 40 million people, the weather is perfect, the movie culture is here, people are educated. From a lifestyle aspect, the people living here fit the image we're trying to create: they're educated, sophisticated yet relaxed and elevated. We're looking at spaces in greater San Diego County, Orange County, Los Angeles, and the Bay Area. Smartly and diligently, though, of course. Not garden variety or malls. Maybe Vegas, but it would have to be for locals—we aren't interested in appealing to tourists.

“We believe that we're on the forefront of creating a dynamic lifestyle brand identity that runs with the overall feeling in San Diego right now." —ADOLFO FASTLICHT, Owner and CEO of The LOT

BLANK

GO/DO EXPERTS BROUGHT TO YOU BY

Ladies FIRST RUNNING A BUSINESS AND MAKING THEIR MARK,

These L adi es Do it All WRITTEN BY: ALLIE MORENO PHOTOGRAPHED BY: ARIELLE LEVY

When you find someone who inspires you, there’s a spark that ignites. Deep down, the things you were once afraid of suddenly seem more attainable because someone you know and admire has done it. When you find several women—in your own backyard, nonetheless—who are doing incredible things, it’s hard not to feel like you can take on the world. LOCALE conducted an online poll, brought to you by Wells Fargo, and these ladies came in at the top as leaders who are kicking major butt in the fitness, tech, design and mobile app industries.

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“It’s important to me to not turn my back on where I come from.” — ANA BERMUDEZ

Ana Bermudez, FOUNDER & CEO OF TAGIT Q: How did you get the idea for TAGit? Ana Bermudez: I was working in finance and had come home late one night. I saw these awesome shoes on TV that I had to have but of course it was 11:00 p.m. I did a Google search and what I found were other women looking and asking the same questions. It was a personal problem that became a business. Q: What types of skills or experience did you apply to building your business? AB: As a finance major, we looked at many case studies about business and in my work had experience in wealth management. I also had a partner in a former business; we had started a company together. He was like a big brother and mentor to me and eventually became my business partner. We grew a business in Latin America and that experience definitely gave us a competitive advantage. Q: What is the best advice you ever received? AB: I had a client from Guatemala who had come from nothing and was now working in a huge office. I asked him how he did it, how he made the shift and he said, “It’s not a shift. It’s about not quitting, not having fear. You don’t have to be a genius to succeed, but you do have TAGIT www.gettagit.com 112 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

to be fearless. You have to have the confidence to go to someone and say here are my ideas.” Q: What is something you’d go back in time to tell your 13 year old self? AB: You know, I have a young niece and nephew and I tell them these things all the time. And my niece in particular, I tell her it’s a little more difficult for women out there. It’s not impossible but it’s difficult. You have to be patient, persistent and prepared. You always have to give them your best. Q: What does it mean to you to make a difference? AB: I grew up in Logan Heights, a San Diego community that is underserved. I help by giving speeches and donating money to schools, helping students in need afford college. I use my career to help my family. It’s important to me to not turn my back on where I come from. Q: What makes the San Diego community unique? AB: San Diego is a special place, the community here is supportive. The people here would give you the shirt off their back. For many of us who are immigrants, it inspires the entrepreneurial spirit. We strive to succeed personally and professionally.

PHOTOSHOOT LOCATION: HERA HUB 4010 Sorrento Valley Blvd Ste 400, San Diego, CA 92121

Anna Gamboa,

CREATIVE DIRECTOR & FOUNDING PARTNER OF A7D CREATIVE GROUP

What is TAGit? With the app you're able to watch products from your favorite TV shows and tag/share on social media, and then buy them!

Q: Tell me about your company and how it came about. Anna Gamboa: I had reached a point in my job where there wasn’t much more growth I could do within the company. My husband and I turned our spare bedroom into an office, working our full time jobs while A7D Graphic Design came into play. We have grown our business into a boutique agency that offers branding, website design, collateral design, social media marketing and printing. Q: What makes you stand out as a leader in your field/business? AG: The ability to see things differently and striving to be the best we can be as a team and as a representation of our clients and their brand image. More than anything I truly care about each project we take on as a business and won’t take on a project if I feel it’s not a good fit. Q: What’s the best advice you ever received? AG: When I worked at Mesa Distributing, Mark Lindner the VP of Sales saw that my creativity wasn’t being

“More than anything I truly care about each project we take on as a business and won’t take on a project if I feel it’s not a good fit.” —ANNA GAMBOA

Leslie Fishlock, K-9 to 5 The team at A7D Creative Group includes an office dog, Ranger, a Vizsla.

challenged to its full potential and assigned me to a new project of designing a new themed bar at the San Diego International Airport. The project was out of my scope of work and after many nights of sketching out concepts, I felt that I just couldn’t do it and I’m not sure what scared me more, failing or going into Mark’s office and letting him know that I couldn’t come through for him. We met, I expressed to him that I just couldn’t do it and his response was “You can do this. I believe in you,” and that was that. With no other choice than to figure out a way to get this project done—I did just that. Q: What’s one of the most common misconceptions about running your own business? AG: That running a business is easy, especially a creative business. I wear many hats in a day and have to be on point with each of the roles and responsibilities that come with running your own business. The hardest part is not letting the business workings interfere with my creativity. Q: Do you have any role models or other females in business that you admire? Who? AG: My grandmother and my grandfather owned and operated Hopkins True Value Hardware in a small town in Missouri. In ways the working relationship I have with my husband now reminds me of them. A7D CREATIVE GROUP 2867 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92104 619.574.6878 | www.a7d.design

They were the community and the hub of that small town and in ways the relationships and respect their customers had for them reminds me a lot of the business my husband and I have today. She was a strong, inspirational woman and would be so proud of who her grandchildren are today. Q: What does it mean to you to make a difference? AG: It means more to see the difference A7D has made. In North Park, for example, our entire team has contributed to grow the brand of North Park as a destination. Our business district is thriving with the most dedicated and caring business owners who have truly dedicated so much time and energy in making North Park what it is today. Q: What is unique about running a company in the San Diego community? AG: How can you not love this city! The weather, the arts, the food and most of all of for me the business owners and clients I work with are inspiring, creative and vested in providing their customers with an overall exceptional experience. San Diego small businesses believe in keeping it local and supporting those within their community which harvests personal relationships and a more successful business community.

FOUNDER & CEO OF GEEK GIRL Q: Can you tell me how you started Geek Girl? Leslie Fishlock: I had been working in the tech industry for several startups for the last 18 years. My friends would ask me for help with technology. It started with small groups, then evolved into workshops and conferences. Geek Girl is about education, about a hands on experience. We offer workshops from programming to design and Photoshop. Q: What makes you stand out from others in your field? LF: We are different because we work with other organizations, there is no sense of competition. We’re peer to public when it comes to our audience. We aren’t focused on younger girls necessarily—anyone can come to our events. Q: What brought you to San Diego? LF: I came to San Diego because of work I was doing with a startup. To me, San Diego is about bringing people together, about people reaching out. It may never be Silicon Valley and I think that’s a blessing—but a lot of startups are coming here and growing. I’d love to see more of that happen. Q: What is the best advice you ever received? LF: There are diversity issues in tech—there are less women working in the industry and for less pay. But I say it’s all about performance when it comes to funding or getting promoted. There’s a hierarchy, a cutting off at the knees. But it’s also a time where there’s no limit to what you can do in tech. Q: What does making a difference mean to you? LF: Now, I think the biggest disparity is education (and that doesn’t necessarily mean college). It’s about creating a prepared workforce, about providing people with skills so that they have more opportunities in life. GEEK GIRL CAMP 3539 Curtis St, San Diego, CA 92106 774.269.9222 | www.geekgirlcamp.com LOCALE MAGAZINE | 113

—ZLATA SUSHCHIK

Kellyn Timmerman, FOUNDER & OWNER OF FENA

Q: Tell me about your company and how it came about. Kellyn Timmerman: feNa started to take shape in my mind 5-6 years before launching, while I was still thriving as an architect. I was given a gentle nudge to follow my passion when I was laid off in 2008. The fact that it was so disheartening to have the fate of my job be decided by someone else sparked the idea to start my own business. Q: What makes you stand out as a leader in your field/business? KT: I would say my unique background in architecture combined with my personal use and absolute love of my products makes me stand out. I excel at balance and proportion and use my architecture background to hand draw all of my bags to scale and carry them around on paper and tweak them before going to production. I make sure that the function is equally as important on each bag as the design.

Zlata Sushchik,

Q: What’s one of the most common misconceptions about running your own business? KT: That you have loads of free time to do whatever you want. Even if you do get to do errands or other things at odd hours of the day, you are also most likely working when everyone is enjoying their free time at nights and on the weekends. The benefit is you get to figure out the best schedule for yourself and when you are most productive. Oddly, one of my most productive and creative times is often 5:00 p.m. on a Friday.

FOUNDER & CEO OF SEXYFIT Q: What is the story behind Sexyfit? Zlata Sushchik: I moved to the U.S. from Moscow when I was 16 and started entering and winning fitness competitions. I wanted to pass on my knowledge to other women and start something that would promote confidence and inner strength. From that I built a community focused on training women who help and support each other. Q: What is unique about SexyFit? ZS: It’s really a community of women helping each other. The community aspect breaks barriers and makes things less intimidating. There is no judgment here. Q: What are the biggest challenges in running your business? ZS: That there’s not 36 hours in a day. But honestly, I didn’t think it was going to be this hard. You constantly need to be keeping your clients entertained and happy. It’s kind of like Tetris; the problems keep coming but the bottom ones disappear as you start to solve things. SEXYFIT www.sexyfit.com 114 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

Q: If you could go back in time, what would you tell your younger self? ZS: Pay less attention to what people think about your decisions. Listen to your customer. Listen to your heart and your soul. Q: How do you stay grounded? ZS: You have to be willing to get enough help. Ultimately you need to build a team or burn out. Q: What does it mean to you to make a difference? ZS: I make a difference by breaking through my fears and helping other entrepreneurs do the same. I’m also involved in the community as a Big Sister and I make donations and give back. Q: What do you like about the San Diego business community? What brought you here? ZS: It’s very community focused and close-knit. I moved here on a whim when I decided to be a wellness coach. What it really came down to was listening to my heart.

PHOTOSHOOT LOCATION: DESKHUB 2159 India St, San Diego, CA 92101

Change for Good Zlata made several changes to adjust to a healthier lifestyle including: Ò Stopped treating some food as “dirty” and some as“clean” Ò Focused on what her body can do and became a true athlete

Q: What’s the best advice you ever received? KT: That there are no experts. Once you start your own business, everyone has an idea of what you should be doing and how you should be doing it. But no one else has walked in your shoes, has your exact same ideas or vision for what you want to accomplish. Trust yourself and your instincts. Q: How do you approach obstacles or challenges? KT: It’s really easy for me to see the big picture and immediately panic and get overwhelmed. Following that, I just break things down and have to take small steps and tackle one thing at a time. Take a task, set a time to have it finished, check it off the list, then on to the next one. Q: What is unique about running a company in the San Diego community? KT: I find San Diego to be incredibly supportive; it feels very collaborative here. You’ll be surprised at how many people are willing to share their expertise if you are seeking it and also to pair up with you to see if you can both grow your audiences together and help each other thrive and cheer each other on. It’s an incredible city full of opportunity if you’re open to it. FENA stores.fenadesigns.com | 619.278.8958

PHOTOSHOOT LOCATION: SHERATON CARLSBAD 5480 Grand Pacific Dr, Carlsbad, CA 92008

“I make a difference by breaking through my fears and helping other entrepreneurs do the same.”

URBAN MOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S BAR AND GRILL 308 University Ave San Diego, CA 92103 619.491.0400 www.urbanmos.com

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T H AT ' S W H AT H E S A I D

sunday

FUN- gay DISCOVERING HILLCRESTâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S TOP SPOTS FOR A GAY BAR CRAWL

WRITTEN BY: NICK CIMARUSTI PHOTOGRAPHED BY: VALERIE KON

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Papi Hour Every day of the week from 2-6 p.m., Baja Betty’s happy hour reigns supreme on University Avenue. Well drinks, beer, wine and shots are $4.25. ¡Ay papi!

I D E F I N I T E LY W A S N ’ T COMPLAINING SINCE EACH DRINK WAS BETTER THAN THE LAST AND FILLED TO THE BRIM WITH FUN TCHOTCHKES.

P RIOR TO T H E M U LT IP L E EXCU RS I O NS T H AT M ADE THIS FEAT U R E P O S S I BL E ,

I wasn’t exactly a Hillcrest expert, nevermind on the area’s infamous gay bars. But as an LA native, I figured, how different could the Hillcrest gay bar scene be from WeHo? The answer, as I discovered, is very different—sort of like brunch at a beautiful yet bougie country club versus a wild and crazy bottomless brunch with your closest buddies. After reading, I’ll let you decide which is which.

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S TO P #

BAJA BETTY’S 1421 University Ave San Diego, CA 92103 619.269.8510 www.bajabettyssd.com

BET YOUR BOTTOM … DOLLAR u My first stop was Baja Betty’s, which was a bold move considering one of my starter drinks was the Kick Ass—soon to be followed up with a Fúgly Betty, a Pacific Hurricane and one muy grande margarita. But I definitely wasn’t complaining since each drink was better than the last and filled to the brim with fun tchotchkes (plastic giraffes, monkeys and mermaids, oh my!) that I pocketed as souvenirs. After you order your drink(s) at the straw-thatched cabana bar, I recommend snagging a spot under the shade of a coconut tree so you can kick back and enjoy the Baja breeze.

Storm Watch Each drink at Baja Betty’s is deliciously dangerous. The Kick Ass tastes like candy and goes down just as sweet, while the Pacific Hurricane’s signature crushed umbrella looks like it’s been through an actual hurricane. And finally, there’s a test tube shot of Sauza Silver in the Fúgly Betty—you’ve been warned.

W H E N Y O U C A N ’ T R E S I S T T H E U R G E T O P O P T H AT T R U N K A N D G E T D O W N L O W, T H I S I S W H E R E Y O U NEED TO GO AND LET OFF SOME STEAM.

S TO P #

RICH’S 1051 University Ave San Diego, CA 92103 619.295.2195 www.richssandiego.com

HITTING THE JACKPOT u Rich’s is the closest thing to Santa Monica Boulevard that you’ll find in Hillcrest. When you can’t resist the urge to pop that trunk and get down low, this is where you need to go and let off some steam. With two dance floors and plenty of themed nights—XXX-Mas, Stripper Circus and more—Rich’s gave this bar crawl the sweaty, bass-bumping boost it needed. I danced a bit too hard for any usable photos to be taken, but that’s probably for the best. When Selena or RiRi comes on, there’s no stopping me. And at Rich’s, that kind of behavior is totally acceptable.

Disco Daze Be sure to do a few twirls under the disco ball since it’s taken straight from Bette Midler’s Vegas show.

S TO P #

GOSSIP GRILL 1220 University Ave San Diego, CA 92103 619.260.8023 www.thegossipgrill.com

YOUR ONE AND ONLY SOURCE u Spotted: N making his way to Gossip Grill, a super-fun spot with more than lesbian tendencies. Inside, you’ll find positively titillating wall art—vintage yet sassy pin ups, Lucille Ball pop art and a Mona Lisa portrait. The dance floor is spacious and surrounded by comfortable red cushioned booths, which are useful when you want to refuel with Gossip Grill’s signature ahi wontons and spicy loaded fries. Plus, the dance floor is conveniently located next to one of the bars. Funny how that works out, isn’t it? Outside, there’s streetside seating, a second bar and a pleasant patio with lights strung up overhead—perfect for serendipitously catching someone’s eye. You know you love her. XOXO, Gossip Grill.

The Name Game Many of the drinks have tongue-in-cheek names that would make the saltiest of sailors blush when ordering. One of the more tamely named drinks, Shark Bait, more than makes up for its name. Served in a fish bowl, the aquamarine drink comes with a mini shark that oozes the grenadine-flavored blood of its victims.

Thursty Thursday On Thursdays it’s ladies’ night at Rich’s, which means an all-female bartending staff and plenty of bar dances. Set the Record Straight The Alibi is another popular bar in the area, and is also known as a straight-friendly spot. But with a name like that …

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FULL DISCLOSURE: THIS STUFF IS STRONG.

S TO P #

What Up, Wednesday? MO’s has hosted a Dreamgirls Revue that both regulars and newcomers love. Lately, you can catch RuPaul’s Drag Race All Star Winner Chad Michaels hosting the cast of six fierce drag queens.

# 1 FIFTH AVENUE 3845 Fth Ave San Diego, CA 92103 619.299.1911

PLEAD THE FIFTH

S TO P #

URBAN MO’S BAR AND GRILL 308 University Ave San Diego, CA 92103 619.491.0400 www.urbanmos.com

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HOSTESS WITH THE (MO)STESS u To keep the party going, Urban MO’s was an excellent next stop. The atmosphere is lively no matter what time of day it is. Two expansive bar areas provide plenty of chances to try drinks like the Fishbowl, the Pineapple Starburst and Blackout Lemonade—a secret recipe of black lemonade that looks sketchy but tastes like summer. Full disclosure: This stuff is strong. I may or may not have lost my keys and phone for a hot second, only to find them on the bathroom floor. Honestly, that probably says it all about what a party MO’s is, especially if you make it out to the dance floor. Neon lights spelling “Copa” will guide you where you need to be, whether that’s into the arms of a new acquaintance or back to the bar for another copa somethin’.

Throwing Shade During RuPaul’s Drag Race viewing parties, MO’s provides foam tomatoes for audience members to throw. Tell unworthy queens (on or off screen) to sashay away without all the mess of a real flying tomato. Put a Ring On It The Bling Martini comes with an engagement ring on the rim, so now’s the chance to trick, I mean snag, that special someone forever.

u After two dance floors and the top of a bar, it was time for a change of pace. # 1 Fifth Avenue is that rare neighborhood bar that you could visit by yourself after work and it totally wouldn’t be weird. The casual intimacy you find at # 1 Fifth Ave was like a breath of fresh air compared to the gay bars I’m used to because the bartenders were some of the friendliest I’d ever spoken with. They genuinely cared when they asked how their patrons were. They’re the type to remember the orders of regulars because they know that’s what keeps people coming back. When I’m back in Hillcrest and need a spot to just hang out with a beer, this will definitely be my first choice. On Holiday Whether it’s going all green for St. Patrick’s Day or decking the halls for Christmas, the decorations at # 1 are festive enough to give Mariah Carey a run for her money. Party in the Back From drag shows to Havana Nights to ’90s throwback parties, the themed nights at # 1 are always a fun option for a night on the town.

Snack Attack Late night spots for when the drunchies strike. 1. Carnitas’ Snack Shack—a handful of carnitas tacos really does the trick. 2. La Fuente—afterhours spicy Mexican food where you’re sure to make an amigo or two. 3. The Asian Bistro— because drunken pad Thai and egg rolls are always a good choice. 4. Daddy’s Hot Dogs— daddies and dogs. Need I say more? 5. Uptown Tavern—you had me at hot wings and truffle fries.

S TO P #

THE LOFT 3610 5th Ave San Diego, CA 92103 619.296.6407 www.loftsd.com

LOFTY GOALS u Another friendly local spot that turned out to be excellent for ending the bar crawl on a quiet but enjoyable note. The Loft is super low-key and sort of secluded from the major avenues. Compared to other glossy gay bars, it might seem like a bit of a dive but once you dive in, you’ll be glad you did. Inside you can play pool, hang out by the wide-open window (just don’t fall onto the sidewalk, ya sloppy fool) or chat up some locals. Dark wood paneling all around makes you feel like you’re in the galley of a ship, setting sail toward the sloshy shores of your next drink. The Loft has a reputation of being the friendliest bar in Hillcrest, and it certainly lives up to it.

RYAN BLANK Manager of The Observatory North Park and The Observatory Orange County

THE OBSERVATORY NORTH PARK 2891 University Ave San Diego, CA 92104 619.239.8836 www.observatorysd.com 122 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

MUSIC PROFILE

SEEING Behind the Scenes at The Observatory with Manager Ryan Blank

STARS WRITTEN BY: LAUREN VILLA PHOTOGRAPHED BY: ARIELLE LEVY

“I THINK IN THE 80s,

the Red Hot Chili Peppers played a couple shows here,” Manager RYAN BLANK says, “I heard that we don’t do seats anymore because the fans were in there ripping them out and going wild.” He laughs and sips some water. There is something incredibly humble yet mature about the way Ryan Blank carries himself. His words are measured, and it's minutes into our conversation when you realize this 24-yearold lives and breathes music. Blank is the manager of two of the hippest venues in SoCal: The Observatory North Park and The Observatory Orange County, where he is sort of responsible for everything, from what happens at the front door with security to the band’s backstage experience.

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HE TELLS US HOW he is constantly aiming to improve the music experience. “I check in with everybody to make sure what’s going that night, what may have gone wrong, and then I try to think about how we can do it better next time. We want everyone to have a good time. That’s the whole purpose of concerts: people have fun and connect with a band.” Ryan’s job extends outside the venue—he is helping engineer innovate ways to connect with folks in the North Park neighborhood. “It’s unique because we are in a neighborhood … there are houses literally 100 feet behind the venue.” Since moving in January 2015, THE OBSERVATORY staff have worked hard to solidify themselves as community members, to be regarded in the community as not “just” a concert venue. From maintaining a consistent presence at neighborhood planning meetings to hosting fundraisers and school recitals, The Observatory is making sure that there is a space to give back. “We want the community to feel like they have access to the venue, and if they need to use it for an event,” he says, “that’s a way we can give back to the community. We love doing that kind of stuff.” To celebrate their one-year anniversary in the community, The Observatory decided to send a big thank you to North Park; they organized a potluck and invited all the neighbors within a few blocks to break bread. The event marked a milestone in The Observatory’s history, “there are so many North Park residents “We want the that have never been in the building before. It’s community to fun to host an event where they get to come feel like they have enjoy the space for the first time.” In addition access to the to neighborhood gatherings, the venue hosts an venue, and if they annual LGBT Film Festival and drag show called need to use it for “Tantrums in Tiaras” that benefits the LGBT an event. That’s a way we can Center in San Diego; Christmas recitals for local give back to the schools; and hyper-local movie nights to benefit community.” local non-profit parent associations. Originally from Orange County, Blank graduated from Cal State Fullerton with a degree in entertainment and tourism management. That, paired with the fact that he grew up surrounding himself with music, makes his job sort of second nature. Blank started going to live shows when he was 10 years old. “My mom took me to concerts,” he says, “I’ve been involved in music for a very long time. I used to take photos of bands performing at shows for like three or four years. Throughout college I was playing in bands, and then I started thinking about what I was going to start doing in my life.” This led to an internship at Live Nation, and later, a job at The Observatory in Orange County. Blank worked there for two years before he was asked to open and manage the North Park location in San Diego.

“We want everyone to have a good time. That’s the whole purpose of concerts, people have fun and connect with a band.”

WHAT DO YOU GET WHEN YOU COMBINE AN EDGY, HIP VENUE and a neighborhood full of creatives? Well, there is a type of symbiosis occurs. Many know San Diego’s North Park as one of the hippest neighborhoods in America, yet many still don’t know much about its emerging music, restaurant and drink scene. With killer line-ups, The Observatory is helping attract fans to the neighborhood from all over San Diego, Orange County and LA. The more people coming to shows means more business for locals across the board. “After a show, restaurants and bars in the neighborhood will stay open late,” he says, “You have all of these new crowds of people going to local restaurants and bars and shops … it’s all good for everybody.” Ryan and others behind The Observatory’s magic are helping to put San Diego on the map as a musical and cultural hub. Multiple times throughout our conversation Ryan points to the expertise of the venue’s talent buyer. “He is just really, really good at what he does. He will book a show and I’ll be like, who is that? And it’s sold out. Our social media following is growing quickly because people know that we have shows that normally wouldn’t happen at a venue our size, like The Killers and Morrissey.” Ryan then dovetails into an animated reverie, recalling his experience watching The Killers play a secret show on The Observatory stage after headlining at the CRSSD Music Festival held in Downtown San Diego. It’s hard not to listen to Ryan speak so candidly and authentically about the love for the work he does and not think to yourself, “Life goals.” It’s clear there’s not just talent driving The Observatory’s success, there is an undeniable level of passion and commitment to taking care of the community and making sure that San Diego is a place for good music to happen. 124 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

WHAT DECADE HAD THE BEST MUSIC ACCORDING TO RYAN? The late 80s. “I’m a big punk fan—that’s when all the old school punk bands were coming up and doing a lot of cool stuff spreading the punk scene across the whole country.”

DREAM LINE UP Ryan’s perfect show would include folkpunk band Joyce Manor and Andrew Jackson Jihad.

“I’ve been involved in music for a very long time. I used to take photos of bands performing at shows for like three or four years. Throughout college I was playing in bands, and then I started thinking about what I was going to start doing in my life.”

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GO/DO

Horse Racing 101 PADDOCK:  This is the walking ring the race horses enter before heading to the track. This is also where the jockeys jump aboard their respective horses.

WINNER'S CIRCLE:  Pretty selfexplanatory, but the Winner's Circle is where the winning horse and connections get their photo taken after a race.

On Track

STARTING GATE:  Depending on the length of the race, the starting gate is where the horses will load into to begin the race

The Quick Hits with TVG Horse Racing Analyst BRITNEY EURTON WRITTEN BY: TYLER HOLLAND

Born in Glendora, California, Britney Eurton, who reports for TVG, was meant to go into the world of entertainment and horse racing analysis from an early age—Britney’s father trained horses for over 35 years. Britney’s love for horse racing, however, came later. Given her father was a trainer, Britney grew up in the sport, but like most teenagers, she went through the "not wanting to hang out with the parents" phase. When asked about a memorable moment of hers, Britney fondly looked back at an experience she had at the Kentucky Derby. “It was 2014 and the first Saturday in May. It was the first time my father had a horse running in the Kentucky Derby, and that alone, was a true honor. Our horse's name was Dance With Fate, and since coming into our life, he took us on a journey we could've never expected. The Derby is a once in a lifetime experience, and I'll never forget the roar of the crowd as the 126 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

nineteen horses broke out of the starting gate. We may not have won that day, but I will never forget the thrill of watching him run.” Britney started in the horse racing industry in 2014. Early that year, Britney was approached by TVG for an audition for the role of host. Britney describes it as a nervewracking experience as broadcasting was foreign to her at that time, but her love for and knowledge of horse racing combined with her experience in front of the camera proved to be a winning combination. She began covering social media, was quickly promoted to part-time reporter, and then earned her current role as a full-time host and reporter.

FRONTSIDE VS. BACKSIDE:

“The Derby is a once in a lifetime experience, and I'll never forget the roar of the crowd as the nineteen horses broke out of the starting gate.”

 Frontside refers to the race track where the action is taking place, whereas the backside is where the horses are stabled.

GO/DO

MIKE SMITH’S FAVORITE HORSES TO RIDE? Holy Bull and Zenyatta

MIKE SMITH’S ADVICE TO BECOMING A GREAT JOCKEY? “Practice the little things and try to do them better than everyone else.”

F RONT R N N E R Ride Along with PRO JOCKEY MIKE SMITH WRITTEN BY: TYLER HOLLAND

Mike Smith discovered his love of horses while growing up in New Mexico. Raised on a ranch, he had the opportunity to ride horses, including race horses, which developed his love at an early age. Eventually that love transitioned to the desire to become a jockey. Mike Smith attended match day in New Mexico and frequented races when he was only seven years old. He started riding at the age of 11, and in 1982, when he was finally old enough, he got a pro jockey license. The rest, as they say, is history. Mike Smith went on to become one of the leading riders in American Thoroughbred racing and was inducted into the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame in 2003. With over 5,000 wins and several awards, including the Eclipse Award for Outstanding Jockey and the Mike Venezia Memorial Award for “extraordinary sportsmanship and citizenship,” saying Smith is accomplished is an understatement. Each moment took Smith to a different place in life. Of course, winning the Kentucky Derby was an amazing experience, but as soon as he begins to feel like this is as good as it gets, something comes around that completely 128 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

changes things. Horse racing, like many other sports, is complex and there are subtleties onlookers would never pick up on. Fans think you can break away whenever you want and go around the other racers. Many may wonder, why didn’t he just go around the side? After all, there is a lot of room and everyone seems to be bunched together. There is much more strategy than that. The parts that look the easiest are often the hardest to do successfully. Not to mention the fact you are dealing with a live animal with a mind of its own. Even if you want to go left, the horse may want to go right. You have to be in complete sync.

Mike Smith went on to become one of the leading riders in American Thoroughbred racing and was inducted into the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame in 2003.

PHOTO BY: Nick Isabella

home

/away JUNE

2016

132 HOME PROFILE Summer Meza Crafts Some of El Cajonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Edgiest Handmade Furniture

136 SETTING THE TABLE The World of Brian Bond is Full of Sparkle!

140 SU CASA This Tuscan Style Home in Rancho Santa Fe is a Modern Masterpiece

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HOME PROFILE Lady of the Haus

MODERNHAUS www.modernhausdesign.com

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JUNE 2016

SUMMER MEZA Owner of MODERNHAUS

MODERNHAUS www.modernhausdesign.com 132 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

LADY OF THE

HAUS Summer Meza shares her practical yet quirky design inspiration for M O D E R N H A U S

WRITTEN BY: JACQUELINE BRYANT PHOTOGRAPHED BY: NICK ISABELLA

w MODERNHAUS is a creative design firm based in San Diego with third-generation Californian Summer Meza at the helm. It engages in all forms of visual expression interiors, home goods, furniture and personal items that are geared toward clients with an appreciation for modern aesthetics. Specifically, the firm draws inspiration from American sculptor Alexander Calder and his work with paintings, weavings, hammocks, furniture, sculpture, mobiles, jewelry, toys, and other mediums, as well as from other artists and creatives.

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WHAT’S IN A NAME?

MODERNHAUS draws inspiration from American sculptor Alexander Calder and his work with paintings, weavings, hammocks, furniture, sculpture, mobiles, jewelry, toys, and other mediums, as well as from other artists and creatives.

“Summer’s love of abstraction and modern art adds an edge that wouldn’t normally be found when producing pieces with mostly natural materials.”

“ SH E RE C E N T LY L AU N C H E D H E R “ART + SC IE N C E ” L IN E , OR, AS SH E V IE W S IT, H E R “ W E IRD AS I WAN N A B E ” L IN E .”

DESTINY FOR DESIGN

Summer initially went to school to study Art History, then switched her area of focus to Comparative Literature. However, design ultimately captured her attention, thus leading her to MODERNHAUS.

MODERNHAUS developed out of Summer’s unrelenting love for design, which she tried to ignore by initially switching her major from Art History and Design to Comparative Literature. She caught the design bug, though, and couldn’t get it out of her mind. Eventually, she embraced the flood of ideas coming to mind and started down the path that led her to MODERNHAUS. Summer’s aesthetic is inspired by her family’s deep Californian roots and draws from a breezy and casual vibe that can only be found on the California coast.

w While initially starting out as a strictly Mid Century modern furniture design and shop, she realized there wasn’t much room for personal design and creativity in such a tightly defined rubric. She then took a year off to focus on her own designs, and has integrated both personal and defined modern aesthetics into her business. This remains an engaging, if sometimes chaotic, work in progress, but through this she was able to branch out into nonfurniture items, all of which are designed by Summer. Beyond simply designing, she even paints leather and dyes fabric to bring her own ideas to life. Her designs and products are geared toward people who want practical goods, thus usually incorporate natural materials like leather, wood, silk, and cotton. Summer’s love of abstraction and modern art adds an edge that wouldn’t normally be found when producing pieces with mostly natural materials. This allows MODERNHAUS’ work to be transformed from rustic to stylish and cosmopolitan while still maintaining functionality and a downto-earth core. It’s very important to Summer that the pieces MODERNHAUS produces feel permanent and substantial. In general, MODERNHAUS’ customers are looking for an alternative

to mass-market looks and experiences. They want what Summer calls “the real thing,” and not something that is massmarketed and peddled out as handmade by big retailers. Summer’s favorite MODERNHAUS item is her Memory of a Circle chair. She views it as a dream perfectly come to life. The design was inspired by old Mid Century pieces she had had around for decades, and updated to include more ergonomic framing, leather seats, various colors, and recently, a rocking component. Additionally, she recently launched her “Art + Science” line, or, as she views it, her “Weird as I Wanna Be” line. Summer says she did whatever she wanted artistically, without worrying about market response, and created some really great products, including a New Wave clutch with a giant geowood block zipper pull. In that vein, MODERNHAUS is constantly evolving. Summer notes that it’s never stagnant and that they’re not afraid to try new things. She knows that while it would be easier to produce one single item, a signature of sorts, if you will, that by doing that she would miss out on the new techniques and interesting products that experimentation gives birth to.

Follow @MODERNHAUS on Instagram to see what Summer is working on, including, of course, the Memory of a Circle chair in “luxury rocking mode.”

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S U MM E R â&#x20AC;&#x2122; S FA VO R I T E MO D E R N H A U S I T E M I S H E R ME MO RY O F A CI R CL E CH A I R

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Photoshoot Location: THE OBSERVATORY NORTH PARK 2891 University Ave San Diego, CA 92104 619.239.8836 www.observatorysd.com 136 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

WHAT A

Drag! Meet the Artist Behind San Diego’s BIGGEST DRAG SHOW’S SPARKLE

WRITTEN BY: LAUREN VILLA PHOTOGRAPHED BY: JOSIE GONZALEZ

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tep into the fabulous world of Brian Bond,

“Who doesn’t want to be looking at a Swarovski crystal sparkling?” —BRIAN BOND

the lead makeup artist for San Diego’s wildly successful drag show fundraiser “Tantrums & Tiaras: Battle of the Bar Queens.” Known for styling high profile celebrities, from Kim Kardashian to Kendra Wilkinson to Warren Buffett, Bond gives back to the community by volunteering his skills and expertise backstage. Hours before the show, we witnessed Bond working as a natural maestro, instructing 30+ volunteers from MAC and local salons in San Diego on how to apply the perfect lash or glitter lip for the event. The eight Cockettes pour in backstage, yelling “Heyyy, Roxxy! It’s our yearly reunion!” Roxy responds back with an enthusiastic, “Hi, Dolly!” and invites someone into the makeup chair. Soon enough, a playlist featuring favorites like Lady Gaga and Celine Dion is blasting, the champagne is poured and the party has started. We sat down with the renowned artist to talk signature looks, the show, and life with a heavy makeup kit in tow.

Q: HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE YOU TO CREATE THE LOOK? we do have a drag queen blueprint for makeup Brian Bond: The look we’ve that we use here at the show. We always use designed takes two hours MAC cosmetics waterproof eye base, Kryolan per drag queen. We do a paint sticks and MAC Pro Longwear. And we very thorough job that is always stack our lashes using hair weave waterproof and sweat glue—we don’t use eyelash glue because proof. The drag “This whole the false eyelashes are stuck much higher queens can wear the day is all about makeup throughout fixing. That’s how than their real lashes. the pre show and the show, and we makeup goes. Q: How did you get started in makeup? never touch them up. We seal down the We have had BB: It was an accident. I started playing huge tragedies eyebrows with Pros-Aide, RuPaul made with makeup when I was eight years old. with this show. it famous back in the day for covering By nine years old I was a professional We’ve had wigs her brows. It specifically says on the clown making $75 an hour as Gizmo, doing slowly slipping, product “Do Not Use for Hair,” and that’s balloon animals at a restaurant called we’ve had wigs exactly what we do. It’s the theme of drag fully coming off.” Carlos Murphy’s. I worked at a Halloween makeup: it’s about bending all the rules. store for four years in San Diego. I would do —BRIAN BOND

Q: What are the trademarks of your look today? BB: We will do a combination of brush work and airbrush makeup, which not only creates flawless skin but lasts throughout the day. We always do a very overdrawn lip and then we pack it with solid glitter so that you can read the lips from a mile away. On the stage or in a theatre atmosphere, those lips can be seen from the back row. And we always use two pairs of huge eyelashes on top and one on bottom, and a Swarovski crystal. Q: What are the essentials in your makeup kit? BB: We generally swap the colors every year but 138 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

the blood and gore makeup everyday. From there, I worked at MAC and eventually opened my own makeup studio. It was super busy and I went on my own and moved to Los Angeles six years ago, which is where I live now. I come here on the weekends, though. Q: For you, why is it important to give back in the community? Specifically, why is it important to support “Tantrums & Tiaras?” BB: I support every community that I’ve ever been asked to help. We work with all different departments: charities, gay charities, volunteer work, drag shows. Because this fundraiser’s money is going to the LGBT center, I’ve had great

“The challenges, and the excitement of running backstage to fix somebody, happen everyday and we’re almost waiting to see who is going to trip or watching that wig fall off.” —BRIAN BOND

PACKING HEAVY: Bond’s makeup kit weighs 103 pounds with $75,000 worth of insured makeup!

ROUND OF APPLAUSE: Yelling, clapping and standing ovations are highly encouraged at “Tantrums & Tiaras.”

success keeping my team here and having new people each year join the team. I’m close to having 30 people backstage this year. Q: How heavy is your makeup kit? BB: Oh my God, it’s 103 pounds, but I have two of those large boxes that I roll with. One is a beauty box and one I consider a body painting box. The body painting box has all the glitter, the Swarovski crystals and all of the waterproof airbrush makeup. But the beauty box is 103 pounds. Q: How many pieces of makeup do you have? BB: Oh I couldn’t even tell you. Thousands and thousands. The beauty box is worth $26,000 and I have $75,000 insured. For an event like today, we brought in almost $75,000 worth of makeup. Q: Do the girls come in with their own makeup? BB: Yes, each contestant has their own makeup artist, and they’ve been working with that makeup artists since the start. Each year we do a photoshoot and a video shoot, so before the show begins we show each contestant as a boy, then we show them halfway with some makeup, and then the final shot and everybody claps. Q: How did you develop the look for the Cockettes? Does it change each year? BB: This year we did a super dark purple lip, which is awesome because we’ve never done a dark lip for the girls. However, we kind of have a recipe for what’s going to read. The most important thing with the makeup for the Cockettes is that you can see it a mile away and that you can see it in the dark. Q: Have you ever done makeup that went wrong? BB: Oh, all the time. This whole day is all about fixing. That’s how makeup goes. We have had huge tragedies with this show. We’ve had wigs slowly slipping, we’ve had wigs fully coming off—Danny was notorious for that. He would build a wig that was three wigs sewn together and they were so large and so heavy we almost always lost a wig. The challenges, and the excitement of running backstage to fix somebody, happen everyday and we’re almost waiting to see who is going to trip or watching that wig fall off—but the makeup makes it through. Q: What’s your favorite thing about makeup? BB: Everything. I could do makeup all day long. I have like five days off in a row and when I go back to work I don’t even realize. When we’re creating makeup it’s like a party. I definitely see things differently than other people, and makeup lets me show what I’m seeing. And who doesn’t want to be looking at a Swarovski crystal sparkling?

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The entire home is full of light and most living spaces have access to the outdoors, where the gardens and warm Southern California breeze welcome you outside.

6950 Corte Lusso Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92091 140 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

SU CASA Our sneak peek inside gorgeous local homes

info@willisallen.com and 877.515.7443 www.willisallen.com

CLASSIC ITALY WITH A MODERN TWIST IN RANCHO SANTA FE

WRITTEN BY: JEFF COOPER PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY: WILLIS ALLEN

Who says you have to travel to Italy to truly experience Tuscany? One exclusive neighborhood in Rancho Santa Fe—The Bridges—is home to 250 estates nestled in the secluded hillside. 6950 Corte Lusso is on a quiet cul de sac and sits along the 7th fairway of The Bridges’ prestigious golf course. The resort lifestyle community is only about 10 minutes from some of Southern California’s beaches, dining and shopping, but in the solitude of the location, the hustle and bustle of the beach cities feels miles away.

LISTING AGENT: Linda Sansone | BRE# 01219378 info@willisallen.com | 877.515.7443 LOCALE MAGAZINE | 141

long with ownership of this estate style home, you can buy into a social or full membership at The Bridges Country Club, offering tennis courts, a gym, a spa and other amenities, including the lush green golf course. This property is a 4,580 square-foot, four-bedroom home with four-and-a-half baths on about half an acre. It was built in 2003 but was recently completely renovated, allowing for customized elements. The renovations took the homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tuscan feel and elevated it with timelessly elegant features. Everything has been refreshed with a discerning eyeâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;even details like the heating vents have been given a modern treatment and feel. High quality and innovative materials are used throughout the home and lend an elevated sense of design. No room was left untouched, even the bathrooms showcase modern wallmounted toilets and the same custom lighting found throughout the kitchen and living areas. The entire home is full of light and most living spaces have access to the outdoors, where the gardens and warm Southern California breeze welcome you outside. There are patios adjacent to most rooms of the home where large comfortable sitting areas create a relaxed ambiance for you to enjoy a sunny day or warm 142 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

WORK IT OUT: The Bridges Sports Centre offers yoga, Pilates and aerobic classes in addition to children tennis, swimming and golf instruction for children.

GO GREEN: The Bridges’ par-71 course is almost 7,000 yards from the tips and each of the 18 holes are completely unique.

“

W ITH TH E G O L F C OU R S E A S YOU R B AC K YA R D, THER E’S EV ER Y R EA SO N I N THE WO R LD TO TEE UP! IF YOU’RE NOT A GOLFE R, OPT F O R T H E S O C I A L M E M B E R S H I P TO E NJ OY A LL O F THE CLUB ’S A MENI TI ES A ND SO CI A L CA LENDA R WIT HOUT HIT T ING T HE GRE E N.

”

evening. For those who love to cook and dine al fresco, the home offers a new outdoor kitchen with a gourmet pizza oven and BBQ. Enjoy it all while taking in a view of the golf course. Enjoy the backyard space complete with fruit trees that thrive in the California sunshine—there is nothing like a fresh grapefruit, orange or lemon to complement your favorite dishes!

shades and a beautiful en suite bathroom with his and hers water closets and a steam shower. There is also a large walk in closet with built-ins for anything the new owner might bring with them. Through French doors, you walk outside to the jacuzzi and patio, which creates the perfect setting for a quiet cup of coffee in the morning or a dreamy soak in the evening.

The indoor kitchen is replete with carefully chosen details. The high-end appliances will not disappoint even the most discerning chef and the oven is a Bertazzoni from Italy. The kitchen features stunning custom light fixtures, which accent the modern feel of the upgraded space. The silestone counters pair beautifully with the slate flooring in the kitchen, while other rooms of the home feature distressed wood flooring.

Like the famous homes in Italy’s countryside, this property creates a beautiful juxtaposition of classic Tuscan design, but with the updates and modern conveniences that homebuyers crave. Taken further than just being an aesthetic, this is a true “smart home” that gives you full control of your pool, HVAC, fireplaces and music, all from your smart device.

The master bedroom opens to the outside and features vaulted ceilings, allowing light to pour in from the gardens. The room hosts a great fireplace, automated

The property exemplifies an ideal blend of classic design and modern convenience, while providing the best of California’s famous indoor-outdoor lifestyle. Perfect for a single homeowner, or a family, 6950 Corte Lusso is an amazing place to call home. LOCALE MAGAZINE | 143

thank YOU

TO OUR PARTNERS Alternative Strategies

Ladeki Restaurant Group

Andaz

Lotus Thai

Bayside Landing

Lumberyard Tavern

BCBG Max Azria Group

Oceana Restaurant

Bloomers of La Jolla

Puesto

Board & Brew

Quartyard

Cape Rey Carlsbad, A Hilton Resort

RMD Group

Cenci Ventures | Duke’s

Salon Spruce

Cenci Ventures | Jake’s Del Mar

Sauvage Swimwear

Cinépolis

Schaffer Dental Excellence

Cody’s La Jolla

Sheraton Carlsbad Resort & Spa

Drai’s Beach Club

Solare Ristorante

Eat.Drink.Sleep

Solterra Winery & Kitchen

Evans Hotel | Catamaran Resort

The Acoustic Spot

Fern

The Headquarters at Seaport

Florent Restaurant

The Lafayette Hotel, Swim Club & Bungalows

Greater Palm Springs Convention & Visitor’s Bureau Green Dragon Tavern & Museum Hakkasan Group Irvine Company Apartment Communities JC Resorts | Rancho Bernardo Inn K1 Speed Racing KAABOO Del Mar L’Auberge Del Mar

144 | LOCALE MAGAZINE

The Patio Group Umansky Medical Center for Plastic Surgery Urgent Care 3D Verant Group Wells Fargo William Grant & Sons Wood Group

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