Southbay Oct|Nov 2026

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2026

Mother Wolf HOPE SCHNEIDER FINDS HER FOOTING BETWEEN FAMILY AND CAREER

Your forever begins at the edge of the Pacific.

T E R R A N E A .C O M / W E D D I N G S 8 4 4 . 2 0 7. 5 1 2 1

YOU KNOW YOUR AGE

Now Know How You’re Aging Love.Life provides comprehensive, actionable insights into your health, empowering you to live a longer, more resilient, vibrant life.

Our longevity programs uniquely combine functional medicine, advanced testing, fitness, and recovery therapies. They’re guided by our physicians and built specifically around you. With Love.Life, you’ll know where you stand and what to do next.

FEEL BETTER

LIVE MORE ACTIVELY

LOOK BETTER

LIVE LONGER + STRONGER

The afternoon crash. The wired-buttired nights. The stiffness you’ve chalked up to getting older. It may not all be aging, it could be a hormone panel or inflammation marker waiting to be read. We test, treat the root cause, and track what changes.

Not thinner. Better. Lean mass where it belongs, a waistline that isn’t quietly building insulin resistance. A DEXA scan gives you real numbers on lean mass, visceral fat, and bone density.

Bloodwork identifies metabolic dysfunction. Fix what’s underneath, and the outside follows.

A run on The Strand with friends, and the ease you feel moving through your yoga and Pilates classes. You say yes today, but wonder how much longer that will be true. We measure everything from organ health to grip strength to sleep, then build a plan so you can keep saying yes.

Carry your own bags up the stairs.

Build sandcastles at the beach with your grandkids, and stand up with ease. We use balance, mobility and strength assessments to identify opportunities for you to stay active, independent, and resilient for decades to come.

L E A R N M O R E A B O U T O U R LO N G E V I T Y P R O G R A M S AT W W W.LOV E.L I F E O R V I S I T U S AT 7 4 0 S . PA C I F I C C O A S T H I G H W AY E L S E G U N D O , C A 9 0 2 4 5

Kristin Egan M.D. FACS Minimally invasive & surgical treatments for skin rejuvenation Now offering PDO Threads A non-invasive way to quickly rejuvenate and lift skin!

This service takes approximately 30 minutes, is done in-office under local anesthesia, and lasts for 2-years. Perfect for targeting the neck, jowls, nasolabial folds, eyebrows and nasal tip.

Ask about our other services combining dermal fillers with cosmetic treatments and procedures for a comprehensive solution and a more balanced, natural outcome.

• Laser Facelift • CO2 Laser • Facial Plastic Surgery • Fillers • Botox Call 310-426-8415 for your complimentary consultation

Kristin Egan, MD, FACS 2809 N. Sepulveda Blvd, Manhattan Beach 3655 Lomita Blvd, #300, Torrance www.DrKristinEgan.com

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Fedeli Cashmere Sweater $695 Tramarossa 5-Pocket Pant $465 Santoni Suede Ankle Boot $990

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Fioroni Zip-Up Cashmere Sweater $2,395 Tramarossa 5-Pocket Pant $465 Rubirosa Odile Suede Sneaker $495

03. Gran Sasso Jersey Crewneck Tee $295 Fedeli Half-Zip Sweater $895 Barmas Dante 5-Pocket Pant $695 Santoni Enver Suede Boot $1,250

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Proud member of the South Bay since 1911. elsegundo.chevron.com

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The Roundhouse Aquarium brings ocean science to life for thousands of schoolchildren every year, through touch tanks, hands-on learning, and conservation education.

Your gift helps keep these programs free and accessible and protects the marine life in our care.

Please consider donating today and help this South Bay treasure thrive for years to come.

Donate Today!

Manhattan Beach Pier View hours at RoundhouseAquarium.org

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The weight that won’t move. The energy that doesn’t return. It isn’t discipline — it’s metabolism and hormones, and it’s measurable.

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Renowned experts. Refreshingly human.

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Our physicians are fellowship-trained specialists, leaders in research, and pioneers of the most advanced procedures. But what truly sets them apart is how they care—listening closely, explaining clearly, and earning the trust of patients every step of the way.

Find the right specialist for you.

Beverly Hills | Long Beach | Lakewood | Marina Del Rey | Santa Monica | Torrance | Westlake Village 310.437.7921 | commonsclinic.com

PROVIDENCE LITTLE COMPANY OF MARY

An Evening of Wonder, Impact & Possibility

SAT U R DAY

Inspired by the wonder and artistry of Cirque du Soleil, this year’s gala invites friends and supporters to an

5:30-10 P.M.

unforgettable evening of enchantment,

Black Tie Elegance | Formal Evening Wear

celebrating the moments when care, compassion, and community come

TERRANEA RESORT 100 Terranea Way Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275

together to create extraordinary impact.

SUPPORTING TORRANCE EMERGENCY CARE REIMAGINED

JOIN US

A transformational expansion Scan the QR code to purchase tickets, become a sponsor, or learn more.

INDIVIDUAL TICKETS: $500

and renovation of the emergency department, helping ensure more patients receive timely, lifesaving care when every moment matters.

plcmfoundation.org • Emily.Tann@Providence.org • (310) 303-5340

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Los Angeles

“Our goal is to ensure that every patient benefits from the lastest scientific advances while receiving care that is personalized to their unique diagnosis, goals and needs.”

More than breast cancer breakthroughs.

A path towards hope.

Breast cancer is not a single disease. Each diagnosis is different, with its own biology and its own treatment considerations.

That’s why choosing a team with breast cancer expertise matters.

City of Hope is one of the nation’s largest and most advanced cancer research and treatment organizations, earning an “Exceptional” rating from the National Cancer Institute. More than 2,000 cancerfocused physicians, researchers and specialists work together to focus on achieving superior outcomes, even for less common diagnoses.

“The pace of progress in breast cancer has accelerated dramatically. New therapies are allowing us to treat cancer with greater precision, tailoring treatment and care to the biology of each patient’s disease,” says Hope S. Rugo, M.D., an internationally renowned breast cancer expert and Director of City of Hope’s Women’s Cancers Program and Division Chief of Breast Medical Oncology. “At City of Hope, we’re committed to ensuring patients have access to these innovations through leading-edge research, clinical trials and personalized care.”

Dr. Rugo leads one of the nation’s most distinguished breast cancer teams. Here, we bring together experts in medical oncology, surgery, radiation oncology, genetics, pathology and supportive care.

Every patient’s case is reviewed by this team, developing highly personalized treatment plans that reflect the latest research and advances in breast cancer care.

For patients, it means nationally recognized expertise, innovative therapies and coordinated care — all coming together in a personalized strategy focused on healing and recovery.

Many options for breast cancer

–Hope S. Rugo, M.D.

Division Chief of Breast Medical Oncology, Women’s Cancers Program Director

promising new therapies and treatments years before they become widely available.

And City of Hope goes beyond just treating the disease. Our whole-person approach also includes supportive services that help address cancer’s physical and psychosocial impact. Long-term survivorship programs focus on reducing recurrence risk, improving quality of life and individual concerns such as preserving fertility.

Because breast cancer takes many forms, treatment is never one-size-fits-all. Options include advanced endocrine therapies, targeted treatments, immunotherapies and precision radiation techniques. New surgical approaches, such as a nipplesparing mastectomy, are also possible.

Changing what’s possible

Additionally, as a leading research institution, City of Hope offers patients access to an extensive roster of breast cancer clinical trials. These studies explore

City of Hope is ranked #1 for best hospitals in cancer during 2026-2027 in the Los Angeles metropolitan area by U.S. News & World Report.

CityofHope.org/LA | 844-562-HOPE (4673)

The team you choose matters. For people with breast cancer, we deliver advanced, individualized care and, most importantly, hope for the future. For more information on City of Hope’s breast cancer program, call 1-844-562-HOPE (4673).

Ending cancer starts with Hope

© 2026 City of Hope

City of Hope

E ND I N G B R E A ST C A N C E R STA RT S W I T H H O P E Our singular focus on cancer leads to superior outcomes.

Angela, a motorcycle rider and rock climber, refused to let breast cancer slow her down. Today, she’s back to living at full speed. At City of Hope, we know every patient is different. That’s why our breast cancer specialists create a plan designed around you, with access to leading-edge treatments, clinical trials and compassionate support — and the goal of getting you back to the life you love.

Ending cancer starts with Hope © 2026 City of Hope

CityofHope.org/LA | 844-562-HOPE (4673)

Angela

City of Hope Patient

A LIVE & SILENT ART AUCTION CELEBRATING SOUTH BAY CREATIVITY & COMMUNITY

17

BO BRIDGES BRENT BROZA VICTORIA WHITE RYAN FISHER HAUTE OYSTER BRIAN KINGSTON JOHN HUDSON JOANNA GAREL KEN PAGLIARO LAUREN FRICK BROOKE WILEN ANJALÉ PERRAULT KEVIN PERRAULT PAULA LANGSTEIN SABRINA ARMITAGE SPENCER JENSEN HOLLY SOCRATES CAROL REACH KATHLEEN KEIFER CLAIRE KEIFER RAFAEL McMASTER FIONA DOWDEE JEFF LINGLE SARAH PARSA DAVID PHILLIPS KEVIN SMIGEL

HERMOSA BEACH

ART310.ORG

Tricia Strickfaden

Brent Broza

Victoria White

Brian Kingston

Sabrina Armitage

34 STILL SPARKLING A Manhattan Beach resident for 62 years, newly minted centenarian Aurora Smith remains as vivacious as ever, with a lifetime of beautiful and heartbreaking

44

stories to tell.

40

58

MAKING HER MOVE

SETTING THE TONE

Teen dancer Brooke Kim is transforming

Preview the new neutrals and timeless

her experience with scoliosis into an

textures coming to the fall/winter

ambitious effort to bring awareness and

collections at South Bay boutiques.

40

early-detection information to families.

70 44

WEAR YOU LIVE

AN UNBREAKABLE CIRCLE

Taylor Hollingshead is putting a fresh,

On Cypress Avenue, Jessica Accamando

elevated spin on Peninsula pride—one

and Ashley Tull are preserving Kevin

piece of apparel at a time.

Sousa’s creative legacy while creating a place where others can find connection,

74

expression and belonging.

BONJOUR, MANHATTAN BEACH Coucou arrives in the South Bay with

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cold martinis, French-inspired fare

WORTH HOLDING ON TO

and the effortlessly stylish warmth of a

Hope Schneider recognizes that true

neighborhood bistro.

ambition and success begin with knowing

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what matters most.

SEEN

90

Who’s who around the South Bay

84 DREAMING ALOUD With The Rêve Collective, Luisa Faist is creating the kind of community every woman with a dream needs: one that sees her possibility and says, “I believe in you.”

90 TRUE BEAUTY What began 27 years ago in the kitchen of a Palos Verdes native has blossomed into a celebrated personal care brand rooted in wellness.

COVER Hope Schneider Photographed by Shane O’Donnell

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180

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116

SOFFI’S SPOTLIGHT

CREATING THE NARRATIVE

@thesouthbayclub’s Soffi Yessmann puts

A 1920s Spanish-style abode in Redondo

the spotlight on the women behind some of

Beach becomes a beloved first home for an

42

our favorite local restaurants and venues.

interior designer and her family.

IN GOOD COMPANY

96

210

WHERE STILLNESS LEADS

LAST WORD

A women’s retreat at Journey On Ranch

Half Empty

ALSO…

Providence Little Company of Mary

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT 48

offers equine wisdom, mindfulness and the

Hermosa Brewing Company

natural beauty of Paso Robles for guests in

72

search of deeper connection.

WEDDINGS

Manhattan Village

82 102

180

Ann Grant, The Family Law Center of

BECOMING YOUR OWN HERO

L.A. STORY

Southern California

Through Girls emPOWERment Experience,

After an unexpected courthouse elopement,

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Mauri Wingate is helping girls and women

Lissa and Allan Lumutenga gathered their

Valerie Sartini, Treasures Interior Design

find strength, connection and the courage

favorite people for the celebration they’d

to believe in themselves.

been waiting for.

108

186

Carol Wilshire, RBC Wealth Management

COLLECTED OVER TIME

IN FULL BLOOM

112

Wimberly Meyer’s latest chapter

After more than 25 years in floral design,

Tania Kvakic, RBC Wealth Management

brings together the places, people and

STEMS owner Katie Daniels still finds

creative pursuits that have shaped her

inspiration in nature, creativity and the

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life and career.

customers who have become like family.

TOP TIPS

FINANCIAL SPOTLIGHT 56

Laura Gruendler, One Wealth Partners

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190

A LITTLE LOVE

CUT FROM HER OWN CLOTH

124

Sheri Waldstein has spent 35 years

Drawing on her Jamaican upbringing, her

PROFILES

turning personal tragedy into a mission

work with Chanel and her grandmother’s

Women of the South Bay

of comfort, connection and joy for

dressmaking, Yanique Barnes has created

hospitalized children.

a bridal label where craftsmanship and

194

individuality come first.

REAL ESTATE

IS NOW

USC

ORTHOPAEDIC SURGERY

Four South Bay Locations With personalized, comprehensive treatment plans, our care team is focused on helping you make a full return to the activities you love.

• Sports Medicine • Total Joint Replacement • Hand Care • Non-Operative Spine Care • Foot and Ankle Care • Fractures

USC ORTHOPAEDIC SURGERY • EL SEGUNDO • MANHATTAN BEACH • TORRANCE • SAN PEDRO

KeckMedicine.org/southbay

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Darren Elms COPY EDITOR Laura L. Watts

DEPUTY EDITORS Kara Mickelson (Food), Tanya Monaghan (Style), Jennie Nunn (Home)

WRITERS & CONTRIBUTORS Diane E. Barber, Michele Garber, Jenny Karl, Anne M. Russell, Emily Tecklenburg, Soffi Yessmann

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Michelle Villas GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Ajay Peckham, Yuiko Sugino DIGITAL MARKETING Paul Fisher Jade Trau 18K yellow gold Envoy Riviera diamond necklace, $13,900

SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHER Shane O’Donnell PHOTOGRAPHERS

Jewelry by The 1916 Company, all prices subject to change

Michael Anthony, Fabien & Laura Castro, Pauline Chatelan,

Jenna Blake 18K yellow gold mini mariner tiger’s eye pendant necklace, $1,900

Stacey Davis, Thalita Mangin, Monica Orozco, Alexis Peterson, Lori Sortino, Lauren Taylor, Molly Tilove, Madeline Tolle

Jenna Blake 18K yellow gold small nautical link pave diamond leather cord bracelet, $14,800

PUBLISHER Jen Turquand 310-528-5351 | jen.turquand@thegoldenstatecompany.com

DIRECTOR OF BRAND PARTNERSHIPS Erika Carrion 310-897-2424 | erika@thegoldenstatecompany.com

DIRECTOR OF BRAND PARTNERSHIPS Marcie Gutierrez 310-947-5404 | marcie@thegoldenstatecompany.com

SOUTHBAY IS A DIVISION OF THE GOLDEN STATE COMPANY

CO-CHAIRMEN Charlie Koones

Todd Klawin

No part of this periodical may be reproduced in any form or by any means without prior written consent from The Golden State Company, LLC. Any and all submissions to this or any of The Golden State Company, LLC publications become the property of The Golden State Company, LLC and may be used in any media. We reserve the right to edit.

SUBSCRIPTIONS: info@goldenstate.is. Subscriptions are $29 per year.

TO OUR READERS: Southbay welcomes your feedback. Please send letters to Reader Response Department, Southbay magazine.

Please include your name, address and email. Edited letters may be published.

200 N. Pacific Coast Highway, Suite 110, El Segundo, CA 90245 | goldenstate.is | oursouthbay.com

VENETIAN PRINCESS PIROUETTE

Measures of Success The arrival of our Women’s Issue is always a bit-

profiles in this issue is such an inspiring way for me to

tersweet moment for me. As much as I hate say-

start that process. I hope these pages encourage you to

ing goodbye to my favorite season—summer in the

reflect on where you are and set a few fresh goals for

South Bay—I always look forward to bringing you

yourself too.

this very special issue!

This year, while working on the last bit of a suntan

This issue is a wonderful tribute to the special women of the South Bay, and that includes our fabulous

I could manage, I looked through these pages packed

team. We marked the 20th anniversary of Southbay

with so many amazing women and thought, What

magazine this year—an accomplishment to celebrate. It

exactly is success?

is an honor to work with our editorial director, Darren

I think it means something different for each person. So here is my question: Have you thought about

Elms, and record this community’s storied history.

Each person in the photo above has been employed

what it means to you specifically? Is it professional

at the magazine for at least a decade—a com-

achievement, love, health, wealth or happiness? Maybe

bined 63 years total. So if longevity, loyalty and team-

it is a good balance of all these things, or just the ability

work are measures of success, then cheers to us!

to live a peaceful, simple life.

Only you can define success for yourself. But I would also consider that the definition should evolve over time as we achieve new goals or navigate life’s losses.

My own priorities have certainly shifted over the past

30 |

two years, reminding me that maybe I should reassess

Jen Turquand

and reset what I’m striving for. Reading the stories and

Publisher

PHOTOGRAPHED BY LAURA CASTRO

L to R: Marcie Gutierrez, Michelle Villas, Jen Turquand, Laura Watts, Erika Carrion

TANYA MONAGHAN | Tanya is a fashion stylist, style influencer, editor and writer. She has worked for numerous international publications, such as InStyle and GQ, and served as fashion editor for Glamour South Africa. After relocating back home to Manhattan Beach with her

One financial life.

One coordinated approach.

• • • •

Investment Management Estate & Trust Planning Risk Management Alternative Investments

husband and three children, she became a guest editor for Southbay, where she enjoys shining a light on inspirational people within the community.

SHANE O’DONNELL | Shane is a Wisconsin-born photographer living in the South Bay. His documentary and commercial training bring a realistic and refined style to his work. He photographs catalog, advertising, architecture and travel and has

VINCE DILEVA PRINCIPAL MANAGING PARTNER MS, CFP®, AIF®

(310) 712-2320 vdileva@seia.com

shot for such clients as Budweiser, Hershey, Syfy Channel and Vespa. seelikeshane.com

Contact us for a complimentary consultation.

EMILY TECKLENBURG | Emily is a local mom who has spent the last 20 years

SEIA.COM

writing about motherhood and all its tantrums and triumphs, from toddlers to teens. A longtime contributor to Southbay, she also has a Substack, Emily Will Be Okay, where you can read about further adventures in mothering and midlife.

The Forbes 2026 ranking of Best-In-State Wealth Advisors, developed by SHOOK Research, was awarded in April 2026 and based on an evaluation process conducted by SHOOK Research in partnership with Forbes during the period 6/30/24 - 6/30/25. SEIA paid post-award fees for licensing rights. Neither Forbes nor SHOOK receive a fee in exchange for rankings. The ranking is based on an algorithm of qualitative criteria, mostly gained through telephone, virtual, and in-person due diligence interviews, and quantitative data such as revenue trends and assets under management. The algorithm additionally weighs factors such as service models, compliance records and industry experience, and focuses on those that encompass best practices in their approach to working with clients. Advisors that are considered have a minimum of seven years experience. Portfolio performance is not a criterion due to varying client objectives and lack of audited data.

Third-party rankings and recognitions are no guarantee of future investment success and do not ensure that a client or prospective client will experience a higher level of performance or results.

These ratings should not be construed as an endorsement of the advisor by any client nor are they representative of any one client’s evaluation. For details on the professional designations listed above, including description, minimum requirements, and ongoing education requirements, please visit our website at seia.com/disclosures. Signature Estate & Investment Advisors, LLC (SEIA) is an SEC-registered investment adviser; however, such registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training and no inference to the contrary should be made. Securities offered through Signature Estate Securities, LLC member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through SEIA, 2121 Avenue of the Stars, Suite 1600, Los Angeles, CA 90067, (310) 712-2323. CA Insurance License #0B84300.

| 31

20 Est. 2006

YEARS

TWENTY YEARS OF BEAUTIFUL LIVING Since 2006, Waterleaf has been more than a store and design studio. It’s been a place to feel inspired, find what you love, and to create spaces that feel like home.

Thank you to our clients, customers, partners, staff and families for 20 years of support and friendship.

WATERLEAFINTERIORS.COM

|

MANHATTAN BEACH

|

WATERLEAFHOME.COM

O C TO BE R / N OV E M BE R

Cypress Connection JESSICA ACCAMANDO AND ASHLEY TULL FOSTER ART, MUSIC AND COMMUNITY IN HERMOSA. MORE ON PAGE 44

Still Sparkling A MANHATTAN BEACH RESIDENT FOR 62 YEARS, NEWLY MINTED CENTENARIAN AURORA SMITH REMAINS AS VIVACIOUS AS EVER, WITH A LIFETIME OF BEAUTIFUL AND HEARTBREAKING STORIES TO TELL. Written by Michele Garber | Photographed by Monica Orozco

In the 62 years since Aurora

One morning when she was just 23, she awoke unable

Smith moved into her home on

to move. She had contracted Guillain-Barré syndrome

the Manhattan Beach Strand, so

and was paralyzed from the chest down for six excru-

much has changed. Yet this wise,

Because of her job, all of her medical expenses were

effervescent woman—who has

fully covered. The government also paid her salary,

witnessed an extraordinary century

even while she was unable to work.

of history—maintains an indomitable spirit and joie de vivre that would put her younger peers to shame. While her hearing is slightly less acute and she admits some memories have

“I was very lucky to work for the Mexican government,” she says. “They took care of everything for me.

Whatever I needed, they provided.”

Feisty and determined, Aurora indefatigably battled Guillain-Barré, buoyed by her mother’s support and their shared Catholic faith. Her recovery was gradual, requiring rehab just to learn to walk again.

faded, she retains an alertness and

Yet her illness had one silver lining. Aurora’s beau

spark that speak to her remarkable

at the time gave her a Dalmatian named Diana, who

inner strength and character.

served as her constant companion throughout her illness—solidifying her lifelong love of animals.

Born Maria Aurora Graciela Soto on September 4,

In 1953, Aurora spent a year in Tennessee study-

1926, in Guadalajara, Mexico, she was raised by her

ing secretarial skills and learning English at Nashville

mother, Isabel. Although she was an only child, Aurora

Business College. In January 1955, she took an aus-

had a large extended family on her maternal side,

picious weekend getaway to Acapulco with friends.

including four aunts, an uncle and 14 first cousins. In

While there, she met William Edward “Ed” Smith, an

1931, Isabel moved Aurora to Mexico City to be near her

American Air Force pilot on holiday. They spent much

grandmother Joaquina and to live with her Aunt Oliva

of their vacation together.

and Uncle Eduardo Diaz.

“My mother loved me unconditionally,” shares

The day Ed was planning to depart, someone stole his valuables from his hotel. Aurora, a devotee of

Aurora. “I was always her priority. She made sure I was

crime dramas, fancied herself an amateur sleuth. By

safe and well cared for.”

chance that evening, she ran into a local man who had

Through marriage, Isabel became the owner of two

befriended Ed during his vacation. She recognized his

successful drugstores, which provided the family a

camera and binoculars as Ed’s and realized this was the

more comfortable life. While in her 20s, Aurora lived

thief. She turned in the culprit, reconnected with Ed to

with Isabel in a beautiful hacienda and had a maid,

return his stolen belongings and received her reward for

cook and gardener.

solving the crime: a romance with Ed.

Aurora was—and remains—an exquisite beauty with

The Mexican beauty and the handsome American

a radiant smile. At age 18, while working as a stenogra-

aviator were smitten. During their courtship, Ed wrote

pher in an economist’s office, she was discovered by a

to Aurora every week. Six months later, Aurora moved

co-worker and became the Colgate Girl, featured in the

back to the States and landed a job at Neiman Marcus

brand’s advertisements in newspapers and magazines

in Houston, writing customer correspondence. That

throughout Mexico.

December, 11 months after they met, Aurora and Ed

When she was 21, Aurora fortuitously became a secretary in the Mexican government’s legal office.

36 |

ciating months.

were married in Laredo, Texas.

Military life meant constant relocation for the

“If it happens, well, it happens.

Whatever comes, I take.”

Smiths. In four years, they lived in Laredo and Sherman, Texas; Spokane, Washington; Albuquerque, New Mexico; Sacramento; and ultimately Manhattan Beach. They had Laura, the first of their four daughters, while living in Sherman. Daughters Patricia, Alexandra and Jennifer came in quick succession, each born in a different locale, slightly over a year apart.

While living in Sacramento, where Alex was born, Ed began to exhibit symptoms of an underlying illness. In late 1959, he was diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma, just months before their youngest, Jen, was born on Leap Day 1960. Ed received a disability retirement from the Air Force and took an engineering position at Space Technology Laboratories in Redondo Beach.

Enamored with Manhattan Beach, the family decided to make it their forever home. They moved into 324 25th Street and signed a one-year lease for $160 a month.

In July 1961, Ed found his dream property: a small

their gorgeous new main home. Four days later, on

one-bedroom home built in 1925 at the rear of a large lot

December 8, Ed lost his five-year battle with Hodgkin

on a walk street on the coveted Manhattan Beach Strand,

lymphoma, just three days after his 34th birthday. Yet

mere blocks from the pier. They purchased the home

he fulfilled his dying wish: to live in his dream home

for $29,000 and hired local architect William Wookey to

on the beach together with his beautiful wife and four

design their dream home at the front of the lot.

beloved daughters.

Aurora was understandably apprehensive. Her husband was ill, she had four daughters under the age of

unimaginable position. She had just lost the love of

5, and the family of six would have to cohabit in a tiny

her life and was now a 38-year-old widowed mother

one-bedroom home above a garage while their main

with four heartbroken daughters under the age of 8. No

home was designed and built. Luckily, the previous

stranger to facing adversity, Aurora once again leaned

owners had added an extra bathroom and bonus room in

on her faith and her tight-knit circle of family and

the garage, so Laura and Patricia had their own space.

friends for support. It was clear she had to devote all of

Aurora jokes, “When the girls were asked at school,

her energy and focus to raising her daughters, the same

‘Where do you live?’ they semi-mockingly replied, ‘We live in a garage.’”

On December 4, 1964, the Smiths moved into

38 |

That somber Christmas, Aurora found herself in an

way her mother had raised her.

Aurora made two crucial decisions. She would not return to work until her daughters were independent,

nor would she remarry. Though she would have many

extensively, earn an AA degree in child development,

suitors, she was legitimately concerned about bringing

and eventually return to work at age 51 as a transla-

a man into her life and home with young girls.

tor at the Los Angeles International Airport visitors

Money was tight, but she made ends meet with Ed’s

desk, finally retiring at 75. Perhaps one of her proud-

disability benefits and rental income from the rear

est achievements was becoming a grandmother to four

house. Her girls attended public school, but when it

adorable youngsters.

became clear they needed more structure, American Martyrs stepped up and enrolled them.

Aurora ran a strict but loving home, finding ways

Aurora attributes her longevity to close bonds with loved ones, cultural interests—especially art, music and travel—and rolling with life’s challenges. She has

to make life fun for her girls. Together, the Smith

traveled to more than 25 countries on four continents.

women forged a new life, building a deep community

She listens to classical music and reads art books daily,

in Manhattan Beach. They made dear friends and cre-

and still visits art museums often—most recently the

ated countless memories. Aurora became active in her

new David Geffen Galleries at the Los Angeles County

neighborhood. She spearheaded a bond-funded project

Museum of Art.

that buried the utility and phone lines near her home, and also created a successful neighborhood watch.

As her girls’ lives stabilized, she took time to travel

When asked her secret to longevity, she sweetly replies, “I have no idea. I guess I just don’t worry about anything.

If it happens, well, it happens. Whatever comes, I take.” ■

| 39

Making Her Move TEEN DANCER BROOKE KIM IS TRANSFORMING HER EXPERIENCE WITH SCOLIOSIS INTO AN AMBITIOUS EFFORT TO BRING AWARENESS AND EARLY-DETECTION INFORMATION TO FAMILIES. Written by Darren Elms | Photographed by Shane O’Donnell

Brooke Kim was 6 years old when she took her first

cards for seniors—has since grown to thousands of

ballet-tap-acro class with her best friend, initially just

youth volunteers across 35 states and 10 countries, with

for fun. She never stopped.

more than 44,000 handmade cards delivered.

“I love the freedom of dance and exploring what my body can create,” she says.

Today, the Palos Verdes Estates teen attends the Commercial Dance Conservatory at Orange County

“Anyone can make a difference, no matter your age.

You just need paper, crayons and empathy,” says Brooke, who brought that same philosophy to scoliosis advocacy.

She began researching screening and early detection,

School of the Arts (OCSA) and trains at Mather Dance

then approached the Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified

Company in Placentia. She is also a Teen Company

School District about distributing scoliosis awareness

member with Hollywood Connection Dance Convention,

materials. The district approved annual distribution.

traveling to assist dance instructors on stage.

She later made public comments before the PVPUSD

Dance occupies much of her world and, unexpect-

and the Los Angeles Unified School District and began

edly, became the starting point for an advocacy effort

reaching out to elected officials about expanding sco-

she hopes will reach young people far beyond the

liosis awareness for families.

studio. Brooke was 11 when she was diagnosed with

She also found a natural audience within the dance

scoliosis in 2022. At first, she didn’t fully understand

community. Hollywood Connection owner Bill Bohl

what the diagnosis might mean.

agreed to distribute awareness flyers on the organiza-

Two years later, when doctors told her she needed

tion’s 14-city national tour, potentially putting the

to wear a brace at night, that changed. “A scoliosis

information in front of thousands of dancers, parents

diagnosis is a scary thing,” she says.

and teachers.

For the teenager, the medical concerns were accom-

Brooke’s advocacy has also become intertwined with

panied by intensely personal ones: uneven shoulders

Luskin Orthopaedic Institute for Children. Her fam-

and hips, changing clothes in a locker room, sleepovers

ily had volunteered with the organization before she

and the possibility that friends might discover the brace

became a patient. Now a scoliosis ambassador, she has

she preferred to keep private. She remembers hiding it

worked with the institute on awareness materials dis-

in a closet at one sleepover.

tributed to schools, studios and dance conventions.

“No one likes being different, especially as a teen,”

Brooke says that access to information is especially

she says. “I still have a difficult time talking about

important for families that may not have regular access

my scoliosis.”

to health care. Her goal is straightforward: If schools

She was grateful for the news that she could keep dancing. Eventually, the thing Brooke was reluctant to

aren’t conducting universal screenings, families should at least know what signs to look for.

discuss became something she felt compelled to talk

And she isn’t finished. Brooke is working with the

about. As she began opening up, she discovered other

LAUSD on an annual distribution of scoliosis informa-

dancers and peers with scoliosis who weren’t talking

tion and plans to continue pursuing state and federal

about it either.

action. She is also developing a public service an-

In 2025, Brooke created the Scolio Dance Initiative,

nouncement created with fellow students at OCSA,

a program in alliance with the Joy Card Project—a

bringing together young artists from film, acting and

student-led nonprofit she had co-founded with her

commercial dance.

brother, Logan, two years earlier. The siblings created

It’s an ambitious agenda for someone still balancing

Joy Card after witnessing their grandmother’s loneli-

school and dance training. But Brooke’s work has grown

ness following their grandfather’s death.

from a lesson she learned early with Joy Card: Meaningful

Its simple premise—young people making cheerful

change can begin with a simple gesture. ■

| 41

WHEN “NORMAL” ISN’T NORMAL

I N G O O D C O M PA N Y

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SEC TION

One woman’s journey to renewed confidence WRITTEN BY ANNE M. RUSSELL | PHOTOGRAPHED BY FABIEN & LAURA CASTRO

42 |

S P E C I A L A D V E R T I S I N G S E C T I O N

F

or nine years, Jessica Hurley-Jones adjusted her life around a problem she rarely talked about. An avid pickleball player and yoga enthusiast, the 54-year-old Torrance resident found that pelvic floor problems were making everyday activities more difficult and often embarrassing.

“I wasn’t able to do the things I wanted to without the embarrassment of incontinence,” says Jessica, who assumed her symptoms were normal and simply part of life. “I was accepting of it.”

That changed after a conversation with a colleague who had undergone pelvic floor surgery. Hearing firsthand about her colleague’s experience prompted Jessica to seek help. She reached out to Melanie Santos, MD, medical director of urogynecology and pelvic health and lead physician for the Women & Children’s Institute at Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center Torrance, to learn more about her options.

Jessica’s experience is far from unique. The pelvic floor is a group of muscles and connective tissues that support the bladder, uterus and bowel. Childbirth, surgery, aging and other factors can weaken those muscles, leading to symptoms that may include urinary or bowel control issues, pelvic organ prolapse and discomfort during intercourse.

Pelvic floor disorders can affect exercise, travel, social activities and other aspects of daily life. Yet many women delay care for years, believing symptoms such as bladder leakage, pelvic pressure or discomfort are simply a normal part of aging or childbirth.

Dr. Santos says that many women are surprised to learn pelvic floor problems are often treatable. She encourages women to talk with their doctor rather than assuming symptoms are a normal part of aging or something they simply have to live with.

“This is a quality-of-life issue, and there are simple and effective solutions,” she says.

After discussing treatment options with Dr. Santos, Jessica decided surgery was the right choice for her. During an outpatient procedure, Dr. Santos inserted a small, supportive sling to treat Jessica’s urinary incontinence and also repaired her bladder prolapse to help with bladder dysfunction.

The recovery was quicker than Jessica expected. Within two weeks, she had returned to many of her normal activities. Six weeks later, she says, she was “100% back.”

“I can do jumping jacks in exercise class now,” says Jessica, who continues pelvic floor exercises as part of her recovery. “I would have done the surgery sooner if I’d known there was a simple solution.”

Dr. Santos says physical therapy can help strengthen the pelvic floor and support long-term results after treatment. She hopes stories like Jessica’s encourage more women to seek care sooner.

“When patients realize how easy this procedure is, they can’t believe it,” she says.

“I’ve had patients cry from joy after the surgery because they are so grateful to regain quality of life.”

Dr. Santos says that for women experiencing symptoms, the first step is simply having a conversation with their doctor and understanding that effective treatments are available.

I N G O O D C O M PA N Y

“THIS IS A QUALITY-OFLIFE ISSUE, AND THERE ARE SIMPLE AND EFFECTIVE SOLUTIONS.” Dr. Melanie Santos

PROVIDENCE LITTLE COMPANY OF MARY MEDICAL CENTERS, TORRANCE & SAN PEDRO 844-510-HEAL (4325) | PROVIDENCE.ORG/SOUTHBAY IG: @PROVIDENCECALIFORNIA | FB: PROVIDENCE LITTLE COMPANY OF MARY SOUTH BAY LINKEDIN: PROVIDENCE LITTLE COMPANY OF MARY MEDICAL CENTERS

| 43

An Unbreakable Circle ON CYPRESS AVENUE, JESSICA ACCAMANDO AND ASHLEY TULL ARE PRESERVING KEVIN SOUSA’S CREATIVE LEGACY WHILE CREATING A PLACE WHERE OTHERS CAN FIND CONNECTION, EXPRESSION AND BELONGING. Written by Tanya Monaghan | Photographed by Shane O’Donnell

Jessica Accamando seems to be everywhere in her

I’ve been missing,” she says, and community became a

community. With her signature blue hair, glasses and

recurring theme in her life.

almost perpetual smile, she is one of the hardest-

Ashley arrived at that same understanding through

working people around. If something meaningful is

a vastly different road. Growing up in a small Indiana

happening in Hermosa Beach, chances are Jessica had a

town, she knew at a young age that she was different.

hand in it. Beside her is her wife, Ashley Tull—wickedly

Home was not a place where she felt accepted or safe.

funny, fiercely loyal and the kind of person you instinc-

At 17, she packed what she could into her car and left,

tively know has your back.

eventually finding her way to Las Vegas.

Together they have created something incredibly special on Cypress Avenue in Hermosa Beach: The

severe headaches and nosebleeds, Ashley was diagnosed

Studio and Not Shockboxx, neighboring creative spaces

with advanced melanoma on her scalp and told she

built around art, music and, more than anything, com-

might not live to see 31. What followed was a terrify-

munity. But to understand what they have built, you

ing journey through doctors and surgeries until a UCLA

have to understand them.

medical team offered her a chance.

Jessica has been gathering people her entire life.

Born in a tiny Illinois town to a Mexican mother and

“I’m not gonna die at 30,” she remembers thinking.

She eventually found her way to Hermosa Beach and

American father, she moved to Las Vegas at age 8. By

to Jessica. She started over again, first at El Camino

high school she was student body president, involved

College and ultimately at UCLA, finding both an educa-

in many activities and convinced she might one day

tion and another kind of community.

become a senator.

“I’ve always found people,” she says. “I’ve always been in a club or a community or something. That’s how I thrive.”

Perhaps when you’ve fought that hard for your own life, you understand how precious it is to make another person feel seen. Which brings us to Kevin Sousa.

Kevin was an extraordinarily talented musician,

After studying political communications at The

therapist and beloved South Bay fixture. His music,

George Washington University, she eventually landed

friendship and generosity touched countless lives

in the South Bay. But somewhere along the way, Jessica

throughout the community.

realized she had been living a life she thought she was supposed to want.

Jessica and Ashley became part of Kevin’s orbit during COVID-19, when a small group of locals came

Near the end of her first marriage, she attended

together to keep people connected. Jessica helped build

a design conference alone and posted online asking

a volunteer network that grew to roughly 350 people,

whether anyone else attending solo wanted to meet.

while she, Ashley, Kevin, Russ Gilbert and others cre-

One hundred people showed up.

ated an online music event called Spring Fest.

“I came back from that trip and realized this is what

44 |

Then at age 30, everything changed. After suffering

While talking with Kevin’s wife, Patti, Ashley

discovered that Kevin was also battling melanoma and

a desire to keep the doors open and allow the space to

being treated by the same UCLA doctor connected to

become whatever the community needed it to be.

Ashley’s cancer journey. Kevin and Patti became like

Today, The Studio is a true creative place: part

family to Jessica and Ashley.

“I knew I wanted to be involved with this family

and in many ways an extension of Jessica and Ashley’s

because it was really the first time that I had ever expe-

home. Musicians come to rehearse and write songs. The

rienced family,” Ashley says.

community gathers for intimate concerts, sound baths,

Kevin would wrap his arms around her and tell her everything would be OK. “I had never had that before,” she shares.

When Kevin passed away, the loss reverberated through the South Bay. Eventually, the future of

record-release parties, recitals, fix-it clinics, clothing swaps and arts-and-crafts nights.

“I like small events,” Jessica says. “I like community building.”

There is history in the rooms surrounding it too.

Hermosa Music Company—the rehearsal and creative

The adjoining art space belonged to Mike Collins, one

space Kevin had built on Cypress Avenue—became

of Kevin’s closest friends and, like Kevin, an artist and

uncertain. But Jessica and Ashley couldn’t bear to see

therapist. His personal studio occupied the back room,

it disappear.

which Jessica and Ashley initially borrowed for events

“We knew we were saving a space for the music community,” Jessica says. “We’re preserving this thing that all of Kevin’s circle of friends needed.”

In August 2024, they took it on and renamed it simply The Studio. There was no grand business plan, simply

46 |

rehearsal room, part gathering place, part workshop,

at The Studio.

After Kevin died, Mike found it difficult to return to his art. “I haven’t painted in a year since Kev died,” Jessica recalls him saying.

When he decided to step away in 2025, he encouraged

Jessica and Ashley to keep the gallery going themselves.

and a tremendous emotional and financial toll. Perhaps

In what seems to be the recurring theme of their lives,

the most extraordinary thing about these two women is

they said yes.

what they have chosen to do with that ugliness.

That gallery became Not Shockboxx, an intimate

They experienced division but created connection.

contemporary art space where artists from the South

They experienced hate but created beauty. They experi-

Bay and across the country can show their work outside

enced moments when they did not feel safe but built a

the confines of a traditional gallery model.

place where other people could.

The adjoining Back Box Artist Society has become

“Safety was the biggest thing that I didn’t have as a

another creative community of its own—a wonderfully

child,” Ashley says. “And it’s the biggest thing that I

organic, cross-generational group of women who come

would like to continue to give people.”

together to make art, turn on music, share ideas and sim-

There are photographs of Kevin throughout The

ply be together. Some are professional artists; others have

Studio and Not Shockboxx. Jessica and Ashley carry his

day jobs. What connects them is the desire to create, and

stickers when they travel. His presence is everywhere.

Jessica and Ashley have created a place to belong.

Neither The Studio nor Not Shockboxx are driven pri-

“We want to live like Kevin did,” Jessica says, “making people feel loved and treasured and safe.”

marily by profit. Jessica and Ashley continue investing

Maybe that is how a legacy really lives—not sim-

their own money to keep them alive. Both now operate

ply in the places we preserve but in the way we make

under the Hermosa and Free Foundation, named for

people feel once they’re inside them. And on Cypress

Kevin’s final album.

Avenue, through music and art and hugs and conver-

As visible community leaders, Jessica and Ashley have unfortunately endured harassment, hate, accusations,

sations and the two women who keep showing up, Kevin’s light is still shining. And so is theirs. ■

| 47

L to R: Aaron DuBois, Jorge Delgado, Dave Davis

S P E C I A L A D V E R T I S I N G S E C T I O N

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

COME FOR THE BEER, STAY FOR DINNER Diners delight in the culinary offerings at a Hermosa Beach establishment known for award-winning beer.

T

here is a particular pleasure in discovering an exceptional meal where no ceremony is required. At Hermosa Brewing Company, dinner might arrive on a familiar brewery tray rather than white linen, but what lands on that tray can be anything from delicate stuffed squash blossoms to bright ceviche, fresh fish or a beautifully cooked flat iron steak.

All of it comes from a deliciously talented chef, a tiny kitchen and a 400-square-foot dining room.

That contrast is part of the charm.

Hermosa Brewing Company is, of course, known for its locally crafted beer. But inside its intimate Hermosa Avenue location, the food crafted by award-winning Chef Aaron has quietly become one of the South Bay’s best reasons to return again and again.

The restaurant offers a dependable core menu filled with crowd favorites. The hot chicken sandwich brings the heat. Korean tacos balance savory, sweet and spice.

A warm soft pretzel remains a natural companion to a freshly poured beer. Yet the daily specials are where the kitchen’s personality comes fully into view.

The list of specials, known as The Board, changes every two or three days. The Board might feature silky, meal-worthy avgolemono soup and slow-smoked brisket with mac and cheese on one visit and Higata oysters with uni, scallop ceviche

and smoked ribs the next. The approach makes repeat visits unusually rewarding.

Regulars can stop in several times during the same week and never order the same meal twice.

Rather than treating specials as an afterthought, Hermosa Brewing Company uses them to follow the seasons, work with fresh ingredients and give the chef room to create. The result is food that feels considered without ever feeling precious. Dishes can be refined, colorful and surprising, but they are still served with the ease and lack of pretense that define Hermosa Beach.

On the outdoor patio, that philosophy becomes literal. A guest can come straight from the sand, pull up a chair and enjoy a gourmet-caliber meal without changing clothes. No jacket is necessary. On some beach days, neither is a shirt.

That relaxed presentation may be why the food still feels like a locals’ secret. Guests arrive expecting a neighborhood brewery and discover an eatery producing dishes rarely associated with a taproom, much less one with such a tiny footprint. Add the award-winning brews to this scene, and you have a perfect, flavor-filled day.

But no trip to Hermosa Brewing Company would be complete without a pint of their flagship Hazy AF IPA—a juicy, hop-forward favorite and one of the beers that put them on the map. In fact, their rotating 12-tap lineup showcases a wide

COME AS YOU ARE, SEE WHAT IS FRESH, ORDER SOMETHING UNEXPECTED AND LET THE FOOD SPEAK FOR ITSELF. variety of award-winning beers, classic favorites and constantly changing seasonal offerings to complement any diner’s palate.

With a tap list that’s always evolving, there’s something new to discover with every visit.

The company’s Torrance Brewery and taproom offers another way to gather, with private-event options accommodating intimate groups of approximately 20 guests as well as celebrations of more than 200.

In Hermosa, however, the experience remains wonderfully simple: Come as you are, see what is fresh, order something unexpected and let the food speak for itself.

HERMOSA BREWING COMPANY 1342 HERMOSA AVE., HERMOSA BEACH 424-398-0014 HERMOSABREWINGCO.COM @HERMOSABREWINGCO

| 49

Worth Holding On To HOPE SCHNEIDER RECOGNIZES THAT TRUE AMBITION AND SUCCESS BEGIN WITH KNOWING WHAT MATTERS MOST. Written by Tanya Monaghan | Photographed by Shane O’Donnell

52 |

Hope Schneider is surrounded by five children … and a beautiful kind of chaos. Someone needs something, someone is laughing, someone is climbing onto her lap. In the middle of it all, Hope remains remarkably

“She was like, ‘I’m gonna be the best mom ever.’

That was her career,” Hope says of her mother, who ran that large household with such capability that Hope still calls her for business advice today. “She is a shark!”

Those Midwestern values—family, faith, humility and hard work—are deeply embedded in the life Hope and Justin have created.

As a teenager, Hope made music videos and commer-

present—not standing alone as the

cials, recruiting her siblings as her cast, then filming,

polished co-founder and co-CEO of

directing and editing everything herself.

footwear company Wolf & Shepherd, but surrounded by the five little humans who are every bit as much a part of her story.

“I really enjoyed building something and creating something from scratch,” she remembers. “I wasn’t watching TV; I was making stuff.”

Sports added a layer of discipline and a desire to do something well. Justin, who is also a former collegiate athlete, recognized that drive immediately. But he also

She looks like a woman who has it all: beautiful,

saw something softer. People, particularly women,

accomplished and intelligent. A former collegiate track

always gravitated toward Hope, he says. Leadership

captain and conference champion in the 800-meter

seemed to find her, rather than the other way around.

race, she earned a master’s degree in sports science

The two first crossed paths through collegiate track

and then coached collegiate athletes. She even ran an

and then reconnected years later. By 2013 Justin was

ultramarathon across the Kalahari Desert.

brainstorming ideas for a company, and in 2014 he

Today, she is raising five children while leading

began sourcing and manufacturing what would become

the company she built alongside her husband, Justin

Wolf & Shepherd. Hope helped shape the framework of

Schneider. Yet Hope dismantles the illusion that any of

the fledgling brand. They married in 2015, and Wolf &

it happens effortlessly.

Shepherd shipped its first product that June.

“It’s truly not possible to really have it all,” she says,

Stella arrived in March 2016, and Hope left coaching

admitting that she doesn’t exercise as much as she

to join the business full time. From there, the Schneider

would like, and her social life is smaller because she is

family timeline and the Wolf & Shepherd timeline be-

adamant about protecting her sleep. Hope prioritizes

come almost impossible to separate.

family and work, and often—after the children are

Babies arrived as products launched. Houses and

asleep—she and Justin open their computers again.

warehouses expanded. Their marriage, family and com-

“There’s a reality of running this business; it’s not that pretty,” she says.

Perhaps that is what makes Hope’s story so compelling:

pany were all being built simultaneously.

The early days were decidedly unglamorous. Hope remembers taking baby Stella to their warehouse and

She knows what matters. And that understanding began

putting a Pack ’n Play in the bathroom because it was

long before marriage, children and Wolf & Shepherd.

dark enough for her to nap. Then Hope and Justin

Hope grew up outside Cleveland, the oldest daughter

“worked, worked, worked.” At the end of the day, they

in a bustling Midwestern Irish Catholic family of eight

loaded customer orders into their Prius and drove them

children. They weren’t wealthy. Her father worked, her

to the post office.

mother stayed home and much of the family’s resources paid for the children’s private-school education.

Justin is adamant that the perception of Wolf & Shepherd being only his business is wrong. “The

| 53

“There’s this realness to her.” company objectively is stronger and more secure with Hope in leadership,” he says. And he rejects the notion

As Wolf & Shepherd grew, Hope began questioning

that he somehow gave his wife space at the table: “She

what the company stood for beyond selling shoes. She

commanded it.”

understood intimately the tension women feel—the

He jokes about the inevitable question of which one

working mother wondering whether she is present

is the wolf and which is the shepherd. “I’m a sheep in

enough at school and the mother at school wondering

wolf’s clothing, and Hope is a wolf in sheep’s clothing,”

whether she should be accomplishing more profes-

he says. “She’s far fiercer.”

sionally. That conversation helped inspire a philosophy

That juxtaposition feels exactly right. Hope is warm, grounded and remarkably humble. But underneath is

central to Wolf & Shepherd: work-life blend rather than work-life balance.

the athlete—the woman who competes, perseveres

It also informed Hope’s vision for the company’s

and gets things done. Justin says Hope never set out

women’s collection. When she began imagining the

to conquer the corporate world or become the face of a

Wolf & Shepherd woman, she wrote about someone

company. Instead, her abilities kept pulling her further

striving to be the best mother, sister, wife and daughter

into leadership.

she can be. Someone who wants to do things well but

When Wolf & Shepherd relocated its headquarters to Los Angeles and the South Bay in 2017, the Schneiders found a community that reflected many of the values

understands she will never do them perfectly.

“There’s this realness to her,” Hope says. It is difficult not to hear Hope describing herself.

they were building their lives around. Their children at-

She is clear that her career is possible because she

tend school here, they go to church here, and they have

does not raise five children alone. “The amount of work

built deep friendships here. Hope has found herself

Justin does at home is mind-blowing,” she says.

particularly inspired by the women surrounding her.

She remembers initially assuming many of the moth-

Their partnership extends into the company. They respect one another’s strengths, challenge each other

ers she encountered at school drop-off were stay-at-

and return to something wonderfully simple. “We’re on

home moms, only to discover that one was a television

the same team,” Hope says.

anchor, another had built a successful startup and another traveled the world for work.

“And they still pick up their kids,” she says. “I thought I was special, but I realized this is the norm around here. This is standard. These people are badasses, which is inspiring.”

That brings us back to the image of Hope surrounded by her five kids. Not a portrait of perfection but one of family, faith, partnership, ambition, compromise, community and love.

Hope proves that women can decide what winning looks like for themselves. Women can be ambitious and

Hope is, in many ways, reflective of the women in

maternal, powerful and playful, competitive and deeply

this community: women building businesses and rais-

nurturing. They can build something meaningful and

ing children, showing up professionally and still show-

still make school pickup, lean on their partners and let

ing up at school pickup, whose extraordinary accom-

some things go without losing themselves.

plishments may not be apparent when you pass them on The Strand.

And perhaps living among those women also helped Hope articulate something she had been wrestling with

54 |

herself: Why must women choose?

Perhaps the fullest life isn’t one in which we manage to hold everything; it is one in which we know exactly what is worth holding on to. ■

| 55

PATIENCE BEFORE PLANNING Financial preparation for widows WRITTEN BY CAROL WILSHIRE, CFP ® | PHOTOGRAPHED BY FABIEN & LAURA CASTRO

S P E C I A L A D V E R T I S I N G S E C T I O N

L

osing a spouse, whether suddenly or inevitably over weeks or months, is a profound shock. Taking care of one’s basic needs becomes a challenge. While some decisions must be made immediately, financial decisions should not be one of them.

Grief can affect cognitive functioning.

Many widows experience brain fog, and their normal decision-making capacity is impaired. Consider postponing major decisions for 12 months, maybe longer depending on the individual. Impulsive decisions made in the moment will be harder to unwind and may affect a widow’s emotional or financial well-being.

When advising a newly widowed woman, a financial advisor should proceed with patience and empathy first, financial planning second. This may sound obvious, but most advisors are motivated to help by finding solutions. Well-meaning financial professionals may rush in to help their widowed client move forward when the client is not ready to do so.

In many situations, a widow has been a part of the financial planning process with her husband, so she is well-equipped to make sound financial decisions as her grief subsides. In other situations, a widow may welcome the help of an experienced financial planner to guide her through financial decisions—short-term and long-term.

The timeliest financial concern is making sure that there is sufficient cash to meet a widow’s living expenses and pay her or the family’s bills. Having enough emergency cash on hand is a vital component of a well-designed and thoughtful financial plan.

A cushion of three to six months of living expenses is recommended, depending on each family’s specific situation.

At the death of her husband, a widow should contact the Social Security Administration promptly. A widow can

receive between 71.5% and 100% of her deceased husband’s Social Security benefit depending on her age when she files for Social Security and whether she is caring for dependent children.* Shortly after the death of her husband, a widow should review and update her beneficiaries that are listed on her retirement accounts (401(k), IRA, etc.) and on her insurance or annuity policies. She should also meet with her estate planning attorney to determine if her trust needs to be updated or if any action needs to be taken considering her husband’s passing.

A widow should meet with a financial advisor to carefully review her accounts and decide if any changes need to be made to best serve her going forward. She should not be timid about asking questions; there are no “dumb” questions. If she has a need for income from her investments, determining how much after-tax income she can sustain for herself and her family will be essential.

An experienced financial planner can help guide a widow to a brighter tomorrow with advice, education, analysis and patience.

Disclaimer: Neither RBC Wealth Management, a division of RBC Capital Markets, LLC, nor its affiliates or employees provide legal, accounting or tax advice. All legal, accounting or tax decisions regarding your accounts and any transactions or investments entered into in relation to such accounts should be made in consultation with your independent advisors. No information, including

FINANCIAL SPOTLIGHT

Carol Wilshire is a Certified Financial Planner™ and managing director at RBC Wealth Management based in Manhattan Beach. She has more than 25 years of experience working with widowed and divorced women.

but not limited to written materials provided by RBC WM or its affiliates or employees, should be construed as legal, accounting or tax advice. Investment and insurance products offered through RBC Wealth Management are not insured by the FDIC or any other federal government agency, are not deposits or other obligations of, or guaranteed by, a bank or any bank affiliates, and are subject

CAROL.WILSHIRE@RBC.COM 310-341-6663 US.RBCWEALTHMANAGEMENT.COM/ CAROL.WILSHIRE

to investment risks, including possible loss of principal amount invested. RBC Wealth Management, a division of RBC Capital Markets, LLC, registered investment adviser and Member NYSE/FINRA/SIPC.

*Source: ssa.gov/blog/en/posts/2026-0

| 57

SE T TING THE TONE PREVIEW THE NEW NEUTRALS AND TIMELESS TEXTURES COMING TO THE FALL/WINTER COLLECTIONS AT SOUTH BAY BOUTIQUES. Photographed by Shane O’Donnell | Styled by Tanya Monaghan | Hair & makeup by Jenny Karl

Zimmerman Mouline rib wrap top, $550, Zimmerman ribbed midi skirt, $596, Cuoio brown leather high boots, $880; Wright’s in Manhattan Beach. Gabrielle Hearst vintage leather handbag, $1,680; Finders KeepHers in Manhattan Beach. Jenna Blake 18k yellow gold pendant in tiger’s eye, quartz and lapis on leather necklace, $1,800, Jenna Blake leather bracelet with nautical 18k knot, $14,800, Future Fortune 14k horseshoe ring with hidden inlaid diamonds, $5,790; The 1916 Company in Manhattan Beach.

This page Paris Georgia utilitarian army bomber jacket, $498; BLVD in Manhattan Beach. Vintage necklace, $75; Finders KeepHers. right LouLou De Saisons brown leather jacket, $1,070, Zara knit cardigan, $620, Ineze knit skirt by Ulla Johnson, $650, Harry M bag in caramel by Jerome Dreyfuss, $810; Wright’s. Wally boot in espresso by Staud, $495; Strand Section in Manhattan Beach and Redondo Beach. Future Fortune 14k horseshoe ring with hidden inlaid diamonds, $5,790; The 1916 Company.

Orla crochet and tulle dress by Ulla Johnson, $1,200; Wright’s.

Rahaminov diamond bow necklace, $27,500, Melissa Kay 18k diamond-encrusted ring, $8,750, Rahaminov diamond wrap bracelet, $48,400; The 1916 Company.

This page Kae plaid knit top, $478, and plaid knit skirt by Aya Muse, $558, St. Agni brown leather bag, $408; BLVD. Wally boot in espresso

by Staud, $495; Strand Section.

Hoorsenbuhs 18k gold cuff bangle, $30,000; The 1916 Company. right Le Bambou Bohemian shirt by forte forte, $646, Labo.Art brown corduroy pant, $400, forte forte square round-toe suede boots, $736; Wright’s. Vintage suede leather vest, $30; Right Tribe in Manhattan Beach. Chan Luu calla turquoise beaded necklace, $290, and beaded turquoise earrings, $290; Gum Tree in Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach and Redondo Beach. Hoorsenbuhs gold link bracelet, $25,000, and gold ring, $7,500; The 1916 Company. B. Belt brown suede belt, $139; Strand Section. Pre-owned Louis Vuitton bag, $1,180; Finders KeepHers.

Valiant lace trim midi dress by Zimmerman, $1,950; Wright’s.

Black bandana printed scarf, $68; Gum Tree. Melissa Kay 18k gold diamond needle necklace, $15,900, Melissa Kay diamond needle earrings, $7,950, Roberto Coin 18k gold bracelet, $11,750; The 1916 Company. Manolo Blahnik pre-owned black heels with beaded ankle straps, $650; Finders KeepHers.

Valiant faux fur collar coat

by Zimmerman, $2,650; Wright’s. Future Fortune 18k yellow gold Starbright diamond stud earrings $8,790; The 1916 Company.

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Wear You Live TAYLOR HOLLINGSHEAD IS PUTTING A FRESH, ELEVATED SPIN ON PENINSULA PRIDE—ONE PIECE OF APPAREL AT A TIME. Written by Jennie Nunn | Photographed by Thalita Mangin

The light bulb moment for Taylor Hollingshead, found-

got my sweatshirt. That was the exact boost of confi-

er of apparel and lifestyle brand The Hill Coastal Co.,

dence I needed, and it was my proof of concept.”

came two years ago following an unrelenting search for

printing handled by Chris Jenkins of Monsters

mother of four, whose husband, Ryan, plays for the Los

Outside—a fellow parent from the hybrid homeschool

Angeles Football Club, yearned for a cozy but sophis-

program—and embroidery provided by the Carson-

ticated style that celebrated her family’s new home in

based family-run business Imadri. The collection fea-

Rancho Palos Verdes after moving from Dallas, Texas.

tures more than 20 styles, including cotton crewneck

“I couldn’t find one I loved that said ‘PV’ or ‘Palos

sweatshirts, T-shirts, tank tops, baseball hats, hoodies

Verdes,’” explains Taylor. “I wanted something classic and simple, something that looked like your old favorite gym sweatshirt but slightly elevated.”

After plenty of scheming and deliberating, Taylor had an admitted “gut check” in September 2024 and took a personal leap, immersing herself in months of

and kids’ tees.

Each piece highlights elements like hand-stitched horses and peacocks symbolizing the Peninsula, as well as cities, neighborhoods, and local beaches such as Rat Beach, Rolling Hills, Lomita and Valmonte.

Every item is thoughtfully packed by hand in Taylor’s

experimenting and planning. During the day she home-

garage, often with help from Ryan and their children.

schooled her young children, but after bedtime she

Taylor personally delivers orders to the post office each

spent late nights toying with different design concepts.

week, fitting it in between carpool duties and sports

Soon after, she turned to graphic designer Meredith

practices. Her designs can be found online and at local

Hunter, whose coastal sketches of the Pacific Northwest

retailers including Pointe Discovery at Terranea Resort,

had caught her eye on Instagram.

The Aloha Bungalow and Corners of the World.

“I fell in love with the coastal illustrations she was

“I never want to make products that I’m not super

posting during COVID,” shares Taylor. “So when I

proud of or that I wouldn’t wear,” says Taylor. “I don’t

had the idea for The Hill Coastal Co., I knew I had to

ever want to put something out just to put it out.”

reach out.”

Taylor plans to launch a “Welcome to PV” tote later

The pivotal moment came when Taylor bravely

this year. It’s a customizable beach bag featuring other

stepped out to her son’s soccer game in Malaga Cove

goods from her line and intended as a thoughtful gift

wearing her very first creation: a black, vintage-in-

for welcoming new neighbors or local friends.

spired sweatshirt emblazoned with “Palos Verdes” in a

“I love to create, so watching new things start as an

crisp white university font. She hadn’t mentioned it to

idea and then come to life is easily the best part of the

anyone and was nervous about the big reveal.

job for me,” adds Taylor. “The first time I saw someone

“I was so in my head about it, thinking, This is the

70 |

Since then, Taylor’s brand has flourished, with

the ideal sweatshirt. The Washington native and busy

wearing our sweatshirt in public, I started crying happy

worst idea ever,” notes Taylor. “But immediately after the

tears. And getting to work with other local business

game, another mom came up to me and asked where I

owners is inspiring and fun.” ■

Taylor Hollingshead

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

GOOD TIMES

O

n any given day, visitors and residents alike are drawn to Manhattan Village—a unique gathering place where friends linger over lunch on sunny patios.

Parents push strollers between storefronts while stopping to admire colorful murals.

Shoppers pause for coffee before wandering into another boutique. And diners fill restaurants while live music or an exciting evening event keeps the energy going.

Long known as a premier retail destination, Manhattan Village has evolved into a place where shopping, dining, art and community intersect. The tenant mix includes international luxury names sitting alongside contemporary fashion brands, chef-driven restaurants and local favorites.

72 |

Guests can enjoy an entire day of fun without ever moving their car. Free covered parking, valet service, a premium concierge and a walkable layout remove the hassles that can accompany a busy day out, allowing visitors to focus only on the experience.

Manhattan Village boasts a growing public art collection, with more than 20 largescale murals and art installations. And each Thursday, the Manhattan Beach Farmers’ Market transforms the plaza into a lively hot spot for residents who come as much for the atmosphere as the shopping.

The calendar stays busy with experiences designed to bring people together.

The holidays add even more traditions and celebrations, establishing the destination as a vital part of the South Bay’s social life.

Giving back to the community is fundamental to Manhattan Village’s identity.

Partnerships with organizations such as Mychal’s Place allow it to be an active, positive presence in the South Bay. A visit to this community hub is an experience that speaks to the heart of community spirit. Manhattan Village offers an indoor-outdoor environment blending the sophistication of a global destination with the effortless convenience that modern luxury demands.

3200 N. SEPULVEDA BLVD., MANHATTAN BEACH 310-426-6313 SHOPMANHATTANVILLAGE.COM @MANHATTANVILLAGE

PHOTOGRAPHED BY FABIEN & LAURA CASTRO

Manhattan Village flourishes as an exciting destination for lingering, exploring and connecting.

| 73

Bonjour, Manhattan Beach COUCOU ARRIVES IN THE SOUTH BAY WITH COLD MARTINIS, FRENCH-INSPIRED FARE AND THE EFFORTLESSLY STYLISH WARMTH OF A NEIGHBORHOOD BISTRO. Written by Tanya Monaghan Photographed by Pauline Chatelan

before moving to New York, where she worked in digital marketing at Condé Nast. It was there that she met Jesse, who was working in finance and came from a family already deeply rooted in hospitality. They have owned a restaurant in Healdsburg for more than two decades, part of Northern California’s early farm-totable movement.

The two shared a love of restaurants and travel, along with an especially deep affection for Paris. Eventually, corporate life began to lose its allure.

“We decided that we wanted to open a restaurant because it was our passion,” Hayley says. “We love to go out to eat, and creating this hospitality experience for others in our own way felt so appealing.”

At the same time they wanted to start a family, so the couple returned to Jesse’s native California, settling in Ocean Park and searching for a space. They found it

Walk into Coucou in Downtown Manhattan Beach, and

in a former Venice art gallery filled with exposed brick

you feel as though you’ve momentarily escaped to a

and character.

secret getaway. The lights are low, the room glows, the

“We said, this is something you would find on the

art is on point, and the beautiful marble bar beckons

streets of Paris or in New York. It’s a perfect place to

you to settle in for a dirty martini and stay awhile. It

open a little restaurant.”

is intimate, sophisticated and just a little sexy—more

Coucou Venice opened in 2023 to an enthusiastic

Saint-Germain-des-Prés than Southern California.

reception. West Hollywood followed just a year later,

Yet somehow it feels completely at home in this little

jasmine-covered patio creating a hidden oasis in the

Jesse Feldman want.

middle of the city. A third restaurant, however, was not

“I hope that people feel like they’ve stepped off the streets of Paris into a little bistro,” Hayley says. “Our

necessarily part of the plan.

“We were kind of on the fence,” Hayley admits. “We

values are warmth, consistency and integrity, and that’s

have two; they’re so special. We didn’t want to sud-

what I hope they feel when they walk in the door.”

denly sell out and become this chain. That was never

Coucou, which translates loosely to a playful, affectionate “hello” in French, is the Feldmans’ love letter

our vision.”

Then life shifted. After the Palisades fires displaced

to France but also to the ritual of dining itself: lingering

the Feldmans from their Rustic Canyon home, they

over a cocktail, sharing beautiful food, connecting with

moved to France for two months. For two devoted

the people across the table. Inspired by the timeless

Francophiles, it became an unexpected silver lining—

bars and bistros of France, its menu marries traditional

a chance to immerse themselves in a culture that had

French fare with coastal California ingredients under

already inspired so much of what they had created.

the direction of Bouchon alum Chef Jacob Wetherington.

Hayley’s journey to hospitality began far from a restaurant kitchen. Raised in a small town in South Carolina, she attended the University of South Carolina

74 |

tucked beside the Troubadour and Dan Tana’s, with a

beach town. That is exactly what founders Hayley and

When they returned to Los Angeles, they noticed something else. Many of their longtime Venice customers had relocated to the South Bay. “So many of our clientele, our Venice regulars, had

left the Palisades and moved down to the South Bay,” Hayley says. “They love it here, and we thought, We should pay attention to this area.”

The more time they spent here, the more the decision

bistro, but that is precisely the point.

“It also has a sense of place,” Hayley says. “We are on the west side of Los Angeles, next to the beach and the ocean.”

made sense. “As we got to know the community, it was

And then there is that soft-serve sundae: Luxardo

like, This is so special. I see why people are obsessed with

cherries, almonds and chocolate sauce that hardens on

it here and never leave. It feels like a small town in a

contact. It is pure childhood nostalgia dressed up for

big city.”

dinner in Paris.

Coucou Manhattan Beach was born. Much of what

Since opening the doors in Manhattan Beach in April,

makes the restaurant feel so personal comes directly

any uncertainty the Feldmans had about a third Coucou

from Hayley and Jesse, who design each location them-

has disappeared. “It’s been so great,” Hayley says. “As

selves, sourcing old-world materials, vintage pieces and

soon as we opened our doors, it was like a 180. This is

art, much of it by independent female artists.

the best decision we’ve made.”

Jesse, who studied art, painstakingly curates the

One recent evening, she looked through the restau-

walls. Hayley laughs that his process can test the pa-

rant’s reservations and noticed that Coucou was already

tience of her more impulsive Sagittarius nature.

welcoming people back for their second and third visits.

That attention to detail extends to the table. The

“Half of the people had already been with us at least

restaurant sources produce from the Santa Monica

once,” she says. “I was like, everybody here is already

Farmers Market, uses pasture-raised, grass-fed beef

a regular.”

and serves its nostalgic soft-serve sundae with Straus

And perhaps that says everything. For all its beauti-

organic dairy in vintage, midcentury, mint-colored

ful marble, flickering light, vintage glassware, French

glass cups that Hayley hunts down herself.

aperitifs and impossibly chic art, Coucou ultimately

The food is French-inspired rather than bound by

isn’t about transporting us somewhere else. It is about

tradition, allowing Southern California to make its way

creating the kind of place we want to return to: the

onto the plate. There are Beausoleil oysters, zucchini

neighborhood restaurant where the food is beautiful,

beignets with chèvre and mint, steak frites with hand-

the martinis are cold, the welcome is warm and, before

cut fries, and a beautiful hamachi ceviche with mango,

long, somebody knows your name. ■

jicama, avocado, coconut and chili oil. The latter may not be something you would expect to find in a Parisian

| 77

SEEN

Cheers & Beers to 20 Years Southbay magazine celebrated 20 years of publication at Hermosa Brewing Company in Torrance. Clients, contributors and readers enjoyed craft beer, a pretzel spread from Chef Aly Pedersen of The Inspired Palate, Proudly Serving burgers, an art banner by Indivisible Arts, trivia prizes

PHOTOGRAPHED BY FABIEN & LAURA CASTRO

and tunes from VOX DJs.

78 |

SEEN

| 79

SEEN

The Agape Fund Annual Fundraiser The Agape Fund gathered supporters to advance groundbreaking research and care for those with neurological conditions, including Down syndrome regression disorder (DSRD). Agape established the nation’s first Down syndrome neurology fellowship at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles and

Maggie Byrne and Andy Byrne

Luke Grafton, Audrey Presby, Kim Grafton, Jeremy Fraser, Kyle Grafton

Puja Santoro, Dr. Jonathan Santoro, Dr. Mackenzie Silverman (CHLA)

Thomas Byrne and uncle John Byrne

supported neurologist Jonathan Santoro, MD, in the first-ever clinical trial in DSRD.

John Byrne

Estate Properties Dodger Day An incredible time was had by the Estate Properties family at Dodger Stadium. From cheering in the stands to enjoying great food, laughs and even better company, it was a night to remember.

Bindu Xavier and Diane Sanders

80 |

Stu Bryan and Lindsey Brooks

Kathleen Knoll and Joanne Galin

SEEN

Celebrate Wellness Great Gatsby Gala Cancer Support Community South Bay’s 29th annual Celebrate Wellness Gala, hosted by KTLA’s Wendy Burch, raised more than $230,000 to help provide 200+ free programs each month for cancer patients and their families. More than 250 guests enjoyed a Great Gatsbythemed evening featuring inspiring stories, fundraising and entertainment.

Scott Trantina, Kelli Trantina, Kathy Grogan, Michael Grogan

Gia Balzano, Avery Kokes, Ava Abbasian Kashi

Sean Fistonich

Jillian Van Leuven and Wendy Burch

Mayor Joe Franklin and Jillian Van Leuven

Kelly Miyahara and Wanda Miyahara

Wendy Burch

| 81

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

A STRONG SUPPORT Clients turn to Ann Grant and her team for outstanding representation.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Attorney Ann Grant, founder of The Family Law Center of Southern California, shares the reasons clients turn to her team when it matters most: • We bring decades of experience to the practice of family law. I have more than 30 years of litigation expertise, and our team has more than 70 years of combined legal experience.

• We’re so successful, we keep expanding. Our reputation has allowed us to grow to three office locations across Southern California, and we’re continuing to expand! This year we added two new attorneys and two paralegals to our team.

• We have extensive experience. We leverage our litigation skills to ensure the best possible outcomes in and out of court.

• We are tenacious advocates and provide aggressive representation. We prioritize what is in your best interest and the well-being of your children.

• We will go to battle for you. Because most of us have been in your shoes, we bring fearless, focused and effective advocacy to every case.

• We are strategic and innovative. We treat each case individually and craft creative approaches to achieve the results you deserve.

• We empower our clients. We provide clear guidance and tailored support through even the most difficult situations. We’re with you from start to finish.

• We are approachable and relatable. We know that trust is as imperative as professionalism and compassion.

A

nn Grant and her team at The Family Law Center of Southern California are the go-to firm for family law.

They offer clients strong representation for the big changes that come with a life well lived.

When you need experience, choose the expert attorneys and paralegals at The Family Law Center. They specialize in the resolution of high-net-worth marital dissolutions, complex custody matters and mediation. The firm is renowned for its client-specific, tailored approach and tenacious representation.

“We are proud of our aggressive and focused representation on behalf of our clients,” says Ann. “With our highly personal approach, we provide the fierce advocacy our clients have come

to expect. We fight for our clients through every stage of the family law process, from initial court filings to contentious and emotional custody issues.”

The Family Law Center continues to prevail at trial, and clients are effusive about the results.

“If you’re facing a difficult partner or navigating a complex dissolution, you’re going to need a tenacious, strategic team that fights relentlessly for your rights and your future—and that’s exactly what The Family Law Center does,” Ann says.

Ready to fight for what you deserve? Schedule your complimentary consultation today.

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| 83

Dreaming Aloud WITH THE RÊVE COLLECTIVE, LUISA FAIST IS CREATING THE KIND OF COMMUNITY EVERY WOMAN WITH A DREAM NEEDS: ONE THAT SEES HER POSSIBILITY AND SAYS, “I BELIEVE IN YOU.” Written by Tanya Monaghan | Photographed by Alexis Peterson

Luisa Faist believes that when the right women are in the room to hear someone speaking her dream out loud, everything can change.

Not when the dream is polished and packaged, or the business plan is complete and all the answers are

Somewhere along the way, Luisa became increasingly fascinated by the idea of a community that could surround the bags. She imagined a flagship store where women would gather over coffee and wine, share their ventures and support one another’s businesses.

“Suddenly, it was much bigger than just bags,” she remembers.

Then in October 2021, Laura was diagnosed with

neatly in place. But earlier—when the

Stage 4 colon cancer. Luisa speaks candidly about the

dream is just an idea and the woman

profound grief and depression she experienced over her

is wondering if she’s brave enough to

friend’s death, as well as her own earlier struggle with

make it real.

“The more that women dream aloud in the pres-

postpartum depression.

She doesn’t attempt to wrap any of it in a pretty bow.

Instead, she sees those difficult years as part of the

ence of other women, the more likely our dreams are

reckoning that eventually brought her back into align-

to expand,” Luisa says. “When we physically say, ‘I am

ment with herself. Grief has a way of stripping away

dreaming X’ and another woman hears it, more likely

the noise and bringing up important questions: How do I

than not she’s going to say, ‘Hell yes. You do that, and

actually want to live? What matters? What am I waiting for?

I’m behind you.’”

“I think part of our grief comes from not being able

This is the beautiful beating heart behind The Rêve

to share the people we love so much with other people

Collective, the community Luisa founded for female en-

and with new people,” Luisa says. “You get to a point

trepreneurs here in the South Bay. Rêve means “dream”

where you’re like, Nobody’s going to meet her again.”

in French, and while the collective itself is relatively

And yet, through The Rêve Collective, they have.

new, the dream behind it has been taking shape for

Laura is woven into its DNA. Her photograph is present

much of Luisa’s life.

at events. Luisa tells her story. Women who never had

As a member of Rêve, I’ve watched what happens in these rooms when women share ideas. They make

the privilege of knowing her have told Luisa that they feel as though they do.

introductions, hire one another, collaborate and become

Perhaps most beautifully, Luisa has created at scale

friends. But perhaps most importantly, they remind one

what Laura once gave her: a woman in your corner who

another of what is possible.

sees your possibility and says, “I believe in you.”

Luisa knew a woman like that. Laura Bresnahan

86 |

even believe in for yourself,” Luisa says.

Luisa had spent nearly two decades in brand market-

Bush was her college best friend and great co-conspir-

ing, working with Fortune 500 companies and major

ator. Years ago, while Luisa was building a successful

agencies in Chicago and Los Angeles. After becoming a

career in brand marketing, the two began dreaming

mother, however, her relationship with work began to

up a luxury handbag for working women—something

change. She wanted autonomy and flexibility but also

beautiful enough to carry into a meeting but also

a deeper sense of fulfillment. She began imagining a

functional. Laura was an architect, and Luisa con-

life in which ambition and motherhood didn’t have to

vinced her to start sketching.

compete with one another.

“She was such an example of what it’s like to have

Returning to the South Bay in 2020 felt like com-

a woman who knows and loves you be in your corner,

ing home. Luisa spent her earliest years in Redondo

cheer you on and believe in you in a way that you don’t

Beach and attended American Martyrs before her family

| 87

“The more that women dream aloud in the presence of other women, the more likely our dreams are to expand.” moved to Florida. Now her own children attend the

know your story. And our stories are what tether us to

school, a beautiful full-circle return to the community

one another.”

that had always remained part of her.

She began noticing that extraordinary women were everywhere. Entrepreneurs. Founders. Creatives.

Mothers. Women building businesses while simultaneously building lives.

She had written the concept for The Rêve Collective

interesting: “What can we do together?”

Everything is intentionally designed around that philosophy. New members enter through intimate cohorts and Welcome Collectives held in beautiful, female-

long before she actually launched it. I was one of a

owned spaces. There is storytelling and grounding

small group of women she shared it with early on, and

alongside education, business strategy and genuine

I remember immediately understanding the need for

connection. Monthly gatherings and virtual program-

it. But sometimes we need someone else to give our

ming cover everything from brand positioning and

dreams that final push.

financial education to creativity and personal growth.

Around her 40th birthday, Luisa wrote herself a mani-

“I want these women to feel like someone else has

festation letter, describing the life she wanted as though

been thinking of them,” says Luisa, who sees that

it had already happened. In it, The Rêve Collective was

women spend so much of our lives pouring into every-

real. Less than a month later, it actually was.

one and everything around us: our children, partners,

The inaugural gathering took place at Love & Salt on

businesses and communities. Rêve is deliberately

November 22, with nearly 50 women showing up de-

designed to turn some of that care back toward the

spite having only 28 days’ notice. When asked if there

women themselves.

was significance to the date, Luisa paused. Laura’s

That may be what I love most about what Luisa has

birthday was May 22, so November 22 would have been

created. Rêve isn’t asking women to add another thing

her half birthday.

to their already overflowing plates. It is asking them

“Oh my God,” she said, realizing it for the first time.

For her, it was another sign.

From the beginning, Luisa was adamant that The Rêve Collective would not feel like traditional network-

to consider what might happen if, for once, they allowed themselves to receive support, connection, ideas, friendship and a moment to breathe.

And perhaps, when they need it most, another

ing. No walking into a sterile room, slapping on a name

woman looking across the room and saying, “I see your

tag and figuring out what someone can do for you.

dream too.” Because sometimes that is all it takes to

“Women are not transactional,” she says. “I want to

88 |

Instead of asking “What can you do for me?” of fellow members, Rêve’s women ask something far more

begin making it real.■

True Beauty WHAT BEGAN 27 YEARS AGO IN THE KITCHEN OF A PALOS VERDES NATIVE HAS BLOSSOMED INTO A CELEBRATED PERSONAL CARE BRAND ROOTED IN WELLNESS. Written by Jennie Nunn | Photographed by Monica Orozco

Coco Chanel once famously stated: “Beauty begins the

nonprofits at Hill & Knowlton, but I felt like, ‘Gosh, if

moment you decide to be yourself.” This sentiment

I can take some of what I’ve learned and try to spread

unarguably fits Emilie Davidson Hoyt, founder and

awareness around this subject that I’m so passion-

CEO of LATHER, a wellness-based personal care brand

ate about’—this is what led me,” explains Emilie.

in Pasadena.

“Growing up with migraines triggered by perfume and

The Palos Verdes native, who launched the company in 1999 when she was just 25 years old, is a veritable

this issue. There were some good products, but they

trailblazer in the clean-beauty industry. She has made

were lifestyle-positioned and I felt like I had to put

her mark with vegan, cruelty-free, head-to-toe goods

on Birkenstocks to go shopping for them. They were

devoid of parabens, sulfates, artificial colors and

marketed like an alternative lifestyle, not mainstream.

synthetic fragrances—from facial cleansing creams

I thought that was so weird. Why are the healthier ver-

and scalp scrubs to mineral sunscreens and blemish-

sions considered a strange alternative?”

control serums.

Determined to find solutions, Emilie transformed

She has also expanded the company to include mul-

her apartment kitchen into a makeshift laboratory,

tiple retail stores, airport locations and a hospitality di-

tinkering with bubbling bath salts, Epsom salts and

vision, LATHER Hotel and LATHER Custom, overseen by

olive oil-infused soaps. She eventually connected with

her husband and LATHER Custom president, Rob Hoyt.

a soap maker, and later a chemist, to help refine her

The products are now found in luxury hotels, spas and

concoctions. At the same time, she took a business plan

resorts around the world.

writing course through UCLA Extension.

Launching her business sprang from both a fun-

“I didn’t know what I didn’t know,” says Emilie. “I

damental need and a desire to fill a noticeable gap on

had a crazy amount of confidence and just went for it.

beauty shelves. Emilie, who majored in public relations

I thought I was going to create this small line and walk

and sociology at Pepperdine University and worked in

over to Fred Segal, pitch it and sell it. But in those days,

public relations for Hill & Knowlton, was plagued by in-

natural beauty wasn’t a thing.”

capacitating migraines throughout her formative years.

Eventually, after hearing “no” from various corpora-

“I worked with a doctor who helped me keep a jour-

tions, Emilie paved her own way forward, opening her

nal and track everything that was in my environment,”

inaugural retail store in 1999 in Old Town Pasadena to

she explains. “We eventually discovered that I had more

educate and interact with consumers.

migraines when I was exposed to people who wore

“In the beginning of launching LATHER, we were ex-

perfume—like certain carpool moms and my own mom

tremely different in just about every way imaginable,”

when going to events.”

says Emilie. “Our approach to ingredients, formulations

Later, after leaving her corporate job in 1998, she gave

90 |

synthetic fragrance, I was researching how I could solve

and even distribution was different from what typical

herself one full year to devote to developing LATHER.

personal care and beauty companies did. Nowadays, the

“I had gotten a lot of experience working with

industry has caught up and there are more independent

beauty companies. But I still believe that our 27 years of experience gives us an edge because we understand our customers and what they are looking for. Everything we do is very intentional. Most of our products are designed to solve distinct problems.”

The company continues to distinguish itself by avoiding fleeting fads, trendy gimmicks and flashy packaging. Instead, it offers a comprehensive range of skin care, body care and wellness items crafted with naturally sourced ingredients like bamboo, avocado, mint, lavender, coconut, yuzu, hinoki ginger, sea moss, manuka honey, cactus flower and elderflower.

“I love so many of the ingredients we use,” adds Emilie. “It’s very hard to pick one. But if I had to, it would have to be bamboo. We use it in so many different forms, and it’s such a workhorse ingredient. Our bamboo lemongrass foaming body scrub is made with powdered bamboo. It’s so unique because bamboo can hold up to 100% of its weight in liquid. We dehydrate the bamboo, grind it into a very fine powder and then immerse that powder into our own lemongrass essential oil/antioxidant formula. It creates such an unbelievable body scrub.”

Last month, the brand debuted a protect-and-restore hair serum with peptides, and plans are in the works for a eucalyptus shower mist and a potential holiday candle collection.

“I’m really interested in things that help people feel better and get relief,” she says. “We have a fantastic product called Muscle Ease gel, and that has been a huge hit for us. I’d love to do more in that realm.”

Nearly three decades later, Emilie has no regrets. recently celebrated the fact that we are in 100,000 hotel rooms. I love that we’re able to provide products that quietly live alongside people. We are in their shower.

We are next to their sink. We are on their bedside table.

It might sound a little weird, but we touch so many people’s skin, and it’s such an honor to be able to be a part of their daily lives.” ■

92 |

PHOTOS COURTESY OF LATHER AND GRANT PUCKETT

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| 93

@THESOUTHBAYCLUB’S SOFFI YESSMANN PUTS THE SPOTLIGHT ON THE WOMEN BEHIND SOME OF OUR FAVORITE LOCAL RESTAURANTS AND VENUES.

Sommelier Julia Blyum, Blüm Vinoteca Julia created Blüm Vinoteca as the kind of neighborhood wine bar you want to linger in, pairing great bottles with thoughtful food and an inviting sense of community.

150 Pacific Coast Highway in El Segundo

Chef Katya Shastova, Vin Folk Chef Katya brings an impressive fine dining background to Vin Folk, where her cooking is creative, seasonal and full of unexpected global influences.

1501 Hermosa Avenue in Hermosa Beach

Chef Cynthia Hetlinger, RYLA Chef Cynthia brings her Taiwanese heritage and years of fine dining experience to RYLA, creating food that is sophisticated, inventive and deeply personal.

1220 Hermosa Avenue in Hermosa Beach

Explore more guides at thesouthbayclub.com.

94 |

CHEF KATYA BY CHRISTINA STOEVER ; PHOTOS BY @STACEYDAVISPHOTO

Soffi’s Spotlight

Chef Alice Mai, AttaGirl Chef Alice puts her own spin on Mediterranean cooking, bringing serious culinary talent and a whole lot of personality to the Hermosa Beach dining scene.

1238 Hermosa Avenue in Hermosa Beach

Chef Nan Yimcharoean, Kinkan Market Chef Nan’s love for Thai and Japanese flavors comes through in beautifully crafted dishes inspired by her culinary roots.

1200 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite 105, in Hermosa Beach

Chef Mook Nikkel, Jeeb Thai Eatery Chef Mook brings Thailand’s vibrant cuisine to Jeeb Thai Eatery, with food that feels fresh, comforting and rooted in the flavors she grew up with.

215 S. Pacific Coast Highway in Redondo Beach

Chef Sara Takahashi, Smashed Wagyu Pasta The creative force behind Smashed Wagyu Pasta, Chef Sara built a fun Japanese-Italian mash-up around indulgent pasta and seriously good Wagyu meatballs.

314 Rosecrans Avenue in Manhattan Beach

| 95

Where Stillness Leads A WOMEN’S RETREAT AT JOURNEY ON RANCH OFFERS EQUINE WISDOM, MINDFULNESS AND THE NATURAL BEAUTY OF PASO ROBLES FOR GUESTS IN SEARCH OF DEEPER CONNECTION. Written by Diane E. Barber | Photographed by Journey On Ranch & Lori Sortino

Retreats have changed lives and shaped some of the

to arrival, they were invited to reflect on their reasons

world’s greatest minds throughout history. In ancient

for attending and set an intention for the weekend.

times, Siddhartha Gautama (the Buddha) meditated

Daily “goddess affirmations” were also suggested,

under a sacred fig tree in India for 49 days in his quest

including “I am a beautiful and powerful expression of

to achieve bodhi, or spiritual awakening. Saint Francis

divine feminine energy,” “I trust my intuition and in-

of Assisi, the patron saint of animals and ecology, spent

ner knowing” and “I honor myself in all stages.”

long periods in prayer in the Italian wilderness during the medieval era. American writer and philosopher

in the sky and distant vineyards creating a picturesque

Henry David Thoreau lived alone for two years in a

backdrop, everyone gathered on the stately veranda of

woodland cabin during the 1800s, immersed in contem-

the Schillers’ home the first day. While Warwick was in

plation and self-reliance—an experience that inspired

the wings, minding the ranch and serving as “master

his famous book Walden.

of hospitality,” Robyn took the reins to lead the retreat

Though separated by centuries and vastly different

with her co-space holders, Dr. Heidi Hook, a naturo-

walks of life, all found meaning through a profound

path and functional medicine expert, and Nicol Natale,

connection with nature, simplicity, solitude and liv-

a reiki master, yoga instructor and meditation guide.

ing with conscious purpose. It is not surprising that

Following introductions and a welcome meditation, a

centuries later, people are still drawn to the quietude of

discussion about the grounding energy of the body’s root

retreats as a respite from the noise and turbulence of

chakra set the tone for the introspective weekend ahead.

today’s world.

Dinner followed, the first of many outdoor “high-vibe”

Earlier this year, Warwick and Robyn Schiller

96 |

With rolling hills, grand oak trees, raptors dancing

home-cooked meals prepared with local fare.

opened their arms—and the gates to their 42-acre

Candlelit yoga in the ranch’s Wellness Center, a

Journey On Ranch in Paso Robles—for a weekend

converted rustic barn, concluded the day before guests

women’s retreat called A Path to Sacred Ground.

departed for nearby Airbnbs, including Lilac Farm,

Warwick, a world-renowned horse trainer and clini-

owned by Terranea Resort’s former community rela-

cian who hails from Australia, and his wife, Robyn, a

tions director Gaye Vancans and her husband, Neil.

California native, accomplished equestrian and well-

Saturday morning, Dr. Heidi led a Science of Safety

ness coach, share a lifelong passion for horses, nature

workshop exploring personal energy vibration, nutri-

and practicing mindfulness.

tion, and the effects of stress, hormones, blood sugar

“Our ranch is a sanctuary for personal growth, equine-

and inflammation on the body. Her wisdom and spir-

assisted learning, and gatherings centered around horses

ited devotion to helping women uncover the causes of

and human consciousness,” shares Robyn.

imbalance and find a path toward optimal health—re-

Ten like-hearted women from around the country

calibrating mind, body and spirit—were captivating.

put their day-to-day lives on hold to participate. Prior

Afterward, the group practiced mindful movement

98 |

during an oak forest bath ritual, strolling through the property in silence and connecting more deeply with nature. The day closed with an intimate share-circle conversation and dinner on the veranda.

Sunday brought another full day of nurturance, learning and reflection in rhythm with the ranch and newfound friends. Morning yoga was followed by painting hand-selected rocks to add to the Wellness Center labyrinth before a hike to the arena. There, everyone convened in a seated circle around massage tables for the heart-opening experience of meditation and reiki with horses. The horses quietly approached and rested beside participants as they received healing sessions with Dr. Heidi or Nicol, intended to help restore energy balance.

“The intuitive presence of horses and their sensitivity and calm naturally facilitate regulation, trust and deep healing,” says Robyn.

The three-day soulful journey concluded that afternoon under the guidance of Nicol, whose passion for the dynamic nature of feminine expression and authenticity is at the heart of her work. She led an eye-gazing ceremony and inner-child healing workshop to deepen presence and self-love, then a closing circle beneath the trees.

Rejuvenated, grounded and inspired, everyone embraced and shared good wishes and promises to stay connected. As the group departed, a solitary oak tree high on the crest of a distant hill, seeming to keep watch over the ranch, stood as a silent farewell.

A myriad of retreats are offered around the globe— spiritual, educational, healing, physically rejuvenating, adventurous and more. Despite their differences, they share a common thread: the quest for self-realization and personal growth. And, on a deeper level, perhaps the search for spirituality’s holy grail—the elusive truth known as the meaning of life. ■

| 99

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

A DESIGN FOR GATHERING Valerie Sartini reimagines the heart of the home.

A

PHOTOGRAPHED BY SHANE O’DONNELL

s we head into the cooler months of fall, Valerie Sartini of Treasures Interior Design is thinking about connection and community, and how that is created through her work. She’s focused on a few projects for clients that involve reimagining kitchens and dining rooms, so her creativity is in full force, her focus sharp.

“These rooms are the emotional center of the home,” Valerie says. “When I’m collaborating with clients on design, sure it’s about creating beautiful spaces, but it’s also understanding these are spaces of nurturing, conversation, celebration, ritual and connection. That’s the jumping-off point—creating an environment where people love being with each other.”

Valerie has a point of view on this. Each detail of the space— from the color on the walls to the texture on the chairs to the finish on the table—plays a role in making a family gathering place … making a place people are drawn into.

There’s a little bit of magic in how this is done, Valerie explains. “When I design a family’s dining room, I visualize my client’s children, neighbors, extended family all being there at different points—how both small and large groups will sit and move around the room, talk across a table, pass plates of food.

The smallest details are important in these spaces because they are so intimate.”

And as the nights get longer and the holidays appear on the horizon, Valerie is mindful of more drawn-out evenings around the dining table. “I think about seasons—the seasons of the year and the seasons of the family. The dining room, maybe more than any other room, changes and needs to be adaptable to change as seasons change.”

For example, Valerie may design a custom dining table that can be expanded for large dinner parties or family visits. Selected table finishes can provide durability in the face of wine spills and 4-year-olds, and stain-resistant fabric is now both beautiful and long-lasting. Care is given to each choice.

One thing is certain: When it comes to breaking bread with those we love, Valerie is finding ways that create togetherness.

“It’s important for me to listen to my clients so I can create a space where memories are made.”

TREASURES INTERIOR DESIGN 310-545-9404 TREASURESINTERIORDESIGN.COM @TREASURESINTERIORDESIGN

| 101

Becoming Your Own Hero THROUGH GIRLS EMPOWERMENT EXPERIENCE, MAURI WINGATE IS HELPING GIRLS AND WOMEN FIND STRENGTH, CONNECTION AND THE COURAGE TO BELIEVE IN THEMSELVES. Written by Tanya Monaghan | Photographed by Alexis Peterson & Molly Tilove

You can feel Mauri Wingate’s energy before you even

itself. Mauri describes the years that followed with

really know her. A bubbly, effervescent ball of positiv-

startling honesty. On the outside, she was the high

ity, wisdom and love, her energy is contagious. But

achiever: the straight-A student, editor-in-chief of her

beneath all that light is an even more compelling depth.

high school newspaper, psychology major at Occidental

Mauri is someone you can go deep with very quickly.

disorders, addiction, anxiety, relationships and an in-

heard, and she uses that skill in her life’s work.

cessant need for validation.

In many ways, she has become the woman she

“I think we don’t belong until we belong to our-

desperately needed as a girl. Raised in the South Bay,

selves,” she says—an idea that gets to the heart of

in the same Riviera home where she lives today, Mauri

Mauri’s story. Because belonging—to our bodies, to

remembers feeling things deeply from a young age.

ourselves, to one another—is really at the center of it all.

“I had very big feelings,” she says. “I remember be-

Her turning point came in her early 20s when she

ing 5 and 6 years old and having what we would call a

realized, quite simply, “Nothing changes if nothing

panic attack, but not having the language for it.”

changes.” She got sober and, almost accidentally, em-

She remembers feeling different and desperately wanting to belong. “I always felt like there was something wrong with me,” she says. “I didn’t have anybody giving me the tools to work through that.”

Those feelings eventually manifested in perfection-

barked on what she now calls her self-love journey. For the first time, she began choosing herself.

She took herself to coffee and lunch. She hiked alone.

She deepened her spirituality. She discovered CrossFit and, with it, an entirely new relationship with her body.

ism, anxiety and a complicated relationship with her

After years of chasing a number on a scale, she started

body. By age 13, Mauri was hospitalized at UCLA for

chasing strength.

anorexia, anxiety and depression. It was an extraordi-

“I had never felt in love with what my body could do

narily dark chapter for such a young girl, but some-

instead of what it looked like,” says Mauri, who began

where inside that darkness came a moment of remark-

to understand that self-love wasn’t some elusive feel-

able clarity.

ing you suddenly arrived at. “It’s all the small steps

“I remember looking at the barred windows and

that you do for yourself every single day.”

thinking: I’m going to do whatever I need to do to get out of

And somewhere along the way, love found her too.

here. And when I do, I’m going to use this to help other girls

Mauri first met her now-husband, Josh, when she was

like me.”

18 and working at a karate school in Santa Monica. He

It would take years for that promise to fully reveal

102 |

College. Inside, she was still struggling with eating

She has a way of making people feel safe, seen and

was 13 years older and in a much different stage of life,

“I REALIZED IT’S NOT JUST KARATE. I WANT TO TEACH ALL OF THIS. I WANT TO SHARE WHAT I’VE LEARNED ABOUT SELF-LOVE AND CONFIDENCE WITH OTHER GIRLS.” but Mauri remembers seeing him and having an inexplicable certainty.

“I was like, how does he not know that we’re going to get married and have babies one day? How does he not know that we’re soulmates?”

Years of friendship followed before their relationship

and self-defense, breath work and journaling.

Girls can text her. Call her. Reach out between sessions. She works closely with parents too, understanding that real change rarely happens in isolation.

“I can tell my story as a coach,” she explains, pointing out that she isn’t trying to be a therapist. “They

became something more. Josh is one of the greatest

feel like, ‘Oh, she really sees me, and she really gets it

believers in the work Mauri has created and sometimes,

because she’s been through it.’”

Mauri admits, believed in her more fiercely than she believed in herself.

Today, Mauri is also a wife and mother, and motherhood is expanding her understanding of the women she

That work began almost organically. After years

serves. Her daughter, she says, is her “mirror and my

of teaching children martial arts, Mauri realized she

little teacher.” Her work is growing to include mothers

wanted to give girls more than physical strength. She

and adult women. At the same time, Josh has created

wanted to give them all the tools she had spent years

Young Men’s emPOWERment Experience—bringing

collecting for herself: movement, mindfulness, breath

many of the same principles of vulnerability, emotional

work, self-defense, journaling, confidence, sisterhood,

awareness and strength to boys and men.

mindset and, perhaps most importantly, a safe place to tell the truth.

Next Mauri hopes to establish a physical South Bay space where movement, martial arts, mindful-

“I realized it’s not just karate,” she says. “I want to

ness, coaching and community can coexist, and where

teach all of this. I want to share what I’ve learned about

children and adults can gather, feel safe, get strong and

self-love and confidence with other girls.”

simply belong.

Through Girls emPOWERment Experience, Mauri

It took years, but Mauri has discovered her own po-

works with girls, teens and adult women in intimate

tential and turned her pain into purpose. Now she holds

groups and one-on-one mentorship, empowering them,

up a mirror—one girl, one woman, one conversation

as she puts it, “to be their own heroes.” She incorporates

at a time—and helps others see the same things for

talking and listening, yoga and weight lifting, meditation

themselves. ■

| 105

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top tips

FINANCIALLY FIT with Laura Gruendler

01

02

03

Know your numbers.

Deploy a protection plan.

Remain disciplined.

Put your financial oxygen mask on first. Determine what you need financially to reach your goals, pay yourself first and build your budget around that commitment. When you know your numbers, you can make decisions with more clarity and confidence.

Life is unpredictable. Establish a foundation that incorporates protection mechanisms such as ready liquidity, sound insurance planning and an estateplanning strategy, which serve to protect what you worked hard to build.

Market noise and pundit chatter can be unnerving. When your investment strategy is aligned with your objectives, try to remain disciplined and stay the course. Meeting long-term financial goals can be supported by sidestepping emotional decision-making during periods of volatility.

04

05

Engage a team.

Enjoy the journey.

Being financially literate is smart, but knowing when to pull in experts is smarter. Financial decision-making is multifaceted. An investment decision can have tax implications. A business decision can affect your estate. Bring together a team of trusted financial, tax and legal professionals who can help coordinate an effective approach consistent with your long-term objectives.

Building wealth is more than the numbers; the real measure of a successful plan is what those numbers make possible: the flexibility to seize opportunities, pursue personal priorities, support your loved ones and enjoy the life you created.

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| 107

Collected Over Time WIMBERLY MEYER’S LATEST CHAPTER BRINGS TOGETHER THE PLACES, PEOPLE AND CREATIVE PURSUITS THAT HAVE SHAPED HER LIFE AND CAREER. Written by Tanya Monaghan | Photographed by Alexis Peterson

Spend an evening at Stecca Taverna in Hermosa Beach,

Italy’s Piedmont and Liguria regions, bringing tradition

and at some point you’re likely to cross paths with

together with a modern sensibility. Wimberly enjoys

Wimberly Meyer. On any given night, she can be found

sharing the way her family learned to live during nearly

moving through the restaurant in a beautiful dress,

a decade of traveling to Italy together.

greeting guests with a warm smile, offering someone a glass of wine or a spritz, stopping for a hug or pulling

tinue to live that way,” she says, “with long lunches

up a chair.

and cooking at home, cheese and wine parties, and the

“I love people so much,” shares Wimberly, who has an

108 |

“We would always try to come back home and con-

slower pace of life and the European lifestyle.”

easy way with people—equal parts curious and welcom-

Ironically, opening a restaurant was never part of the

ing—that feels entirely natural. “They give me energy.”

plan. When James came home and announced they were

Stecca, which Wimberly opened with her husband,

doing just that, Wimberly remembers thinking, “In 10

architect James Meyer, and their partner and executive

years when we’re retired, or 20 years? In this lifetime,

chef, Giorgio Vizia, celebrates the food and culture of

or another lifetime? Whose lifetime? Because it was not

| 109

on my bingo card.”

Then, in true Wimberly fashion: “OK, let’s go. Team Meyer, we’ll do it.”

Life had other plans. Wimberly moved into fashion, then corporate America and eventually production—

What followed surprised even her. Stecca became, she

building Front Porch Production and creating work for

says, “the most unexpected source of joy that I’ve ever

some of the world’s most recognizable brands and en-

had in a career.”

tertainment companies. Her career took her around the

But perhaps it shouldn’t have been so unexpected.

Long before Stecca, before Los Angeles, before an

globe and earned her a place on Adweek’s Creative 100.

She was extraordinarily successful, but she was also

award-winning production career that took her to 35

constantly moving. In January 2020 alone, Wimberly

countries, Wimberly was growing up in the Golden Isles

was away for 26 days.

off the coast of Georgia, between St. Simons Island and

Then COVID-19 stopped everything. For the first

Jekyll Island. It was a childhood filled with beaches and

time in years, no flight was booked and no suitcase was

boats, seafood and family. Her grandparents enter-

waiting to be packed. Wimberly found herself home,

tained constantly. There were dinners, cocktail parties,

and she loved it. When she eventually returned to

theater, art and culture.

production, she rebuilt her company differently—creat-

Wimberly grew up surrounded by strong, entrepreneurial women. Her mother owned a business. Her

110 |

her art and her lifestyle.”

ing a team, delegating and allowing herself to have the career she loved while being present for her family.

aunts were executives. And her grandmother earned a

Then came Stecca. Suddenly, the skills Wimberly

master’s degree in art and had an art studio of her own.

had accumulated over decades began coming together

“The reason that I went to the Fashion Institute of

in a new way. Producing translated naturally into run-

Design & Merchandising and to study textile design was

ning a restaurant: budgets, people, logistics, creating

that I wanted to put my grandmother’s artwork on fab-

experiences. Her background in textiles and design

ric,” she explains. “I wanted to create a brand around

resurfaced in the interiors. And the girl who grew up

surrounded by dinner parties discovered how deeply she loved hospitality.

“I get to tap into my creativity,” she says, “which is truly what I always wanted to do.”

through a lifetime of travel.

Many of the details come with a story, including an old saddle tucked into the space. Wimberly has carried it with her since she was 22, when she worked in fash-

Then a retail space became available two doors down

ion in New York and rescued it from being discarded

from the restaurant. A dream Wimberly had placed on a

after a Fashion Week project. Decades later, it has

shelf 25 years earlier came back into focus.

found its place.

“I felt like it was a gift and an opportunity from her,

“It’s a collection of life, right?” she says, looking

the universe, God, whatever you want to call it,” she

around Tiny Bird. “It’s just like how I’ve collected my

says, “that it was time to utilize all the skills that I

life over the years, and now I get to have a space for it

had learned over the last 25 years to make that dream

all to live.”

become a reality.”

The name Tiny Bird belonged to her grandmoth-

That idea is at the heart of Tiny Bird. Georgia is here.

Her grandmother is here. Italy is here. Fashion, textiles,

er’s art studio on Jekyll Island, established in 1971.

travel, storytelling, hospitality and family—all the

Today her grandmother’s watercolors—filled with

seemingly unrelated chapters have found their way into

Lowcountry, Caribbean and European influences of a

one room.

life well traveled—cover the walls.

“For so long, you have these dreams,” she says, “and

But Tiny Bird is difficult to define, perhaps because

you do all these other things for other reasons and

it isn’t meant to be just one thing. It is an art gallery,

other people out of fear of creating your own dream.

a European-inspired retail space and a place to gather.

When I finally had the confidence to let that fear go, it

Italian linens sourced from an artisan Wimberly has

just became so much easier and so much more natural.

known for years mingle with vintage ceramics, books,

I’m finally being true to myself and being true to the

hand-dyed linen clothing and treasures collected

things that I love.” ■

| 111

S P E C I A L A D V E R T I S I N G S E C T I O N

FINANCIAL SPOTLIGHT

PLAYING THE LONG GAME As she navigates life’s milestones, Tania Kvakic values a multipronged strategy—at home and at work.

WRITTEN BY LAURA L. WATTS | PHOTOGRAPHED BY FABIEN & LAURA CASTRO AND AUGUSTO HERRERA

F

inancial advisor Tania Kvakic knows the importance of staying current in her field and well-rounded in her approach to life. It’s this multifaceted game plan that allows her to bring new ideas to the table and service her clients at RBC Wealth Management in the best possible manner.

Tania integrates what really matters— clients’ lifestyle, values, goals and purpose—to help them create a financial plan that provides peace of mind. “Being a financial advisor is much more than just managing money,” she says. “You’re managing clients’ end-to-end needs: income planning, investments, retirement planning, tax planning, insurance and estate planning.”

Working in various positions during her early days at RBC lent diverse expertise to Tania in her present role as financial advisor. She holds degrees in international business management and personal financial planning, and she stays up to date with continuing education. She also maintains industry designations and consults with private coaches and mentors to help expand her personal and business acumen.

This preparedness enables Tania to serve clients in an ever-changing environment and address the unique challenges they face. “I provide a high level of service and industry expertise that meets and often exceeds clients’ expectations,” she says.

“I view the responsibility of handling their

money as seriously as my own.”

Always focused on versatility, Tania finds time to stay active in her community, serving on boards and volunteering with various organizations. She travels the world and relishes experiencing new cultures. At home she enjoys live music, going to the beach and spending time with her loved ones—including her Bernedoodle, Bentley.

For someone so immersed in life’s important decisions at work, enjoying the simple things after hours keeps Tania balanced.

She can then bring her A game to each client interaction, helping them build the foundation for a truly successful life. And it’s these client interactions that give Tania a thrill—day after day, for nearly 20 years and counting.

She places unwavering focus on client education, realizing that knowledge is instrumental in developing a solid financial future. Her affinity for education created a true success story for one of her clients—an athlete who was part of a group of sports professionals who were uneasy with the financial advice they were receiving.

“I was able to educate them and build trust about their situation,” Tania recalls.

“Five years later, we meet regularly and they understand their investment strategy and feel empowered. At every meeting they learn something new about investing and their portfolio and wealth plan.”

Tania takes a family office approach with

“BEING A FINANCIAL ADVISOR IS MUCH MORE THAN JUST MANAGING MONEY.” the professionals, expats, athletes, entertainers and families who are her clients.

She proudly points out: “I am dedicated to helping my clients and their families achieve their goals, understand their finances and define their legacies.”

RBC WEALTH MANAGEMENT 602-381-5308 RBCWMFA.COM/TANIA.KVAKIC @TANIAKVAKIC

| 113

A Little Love SHERI WALDSTEIN HAS SPENT 35 YEARS TURNING PERSONAL TRAGEDY INTO A MISSION OF COMFORT, CONNECTION AND JOY FOR HOSPITALIZED CHILDREN. Written by Darren Elms

Sheri Waldstein has witnessed again and again that a small gift can change a child’s day. She grew up in Los Angeles and has spent the past 40 years as an entre-

He nodded, so she asked him to choose. Brandon

preneur designing fashion accessories and building a

pointed to a colorful red-and-green joker hat decorated

nonprofit organization. Today she lives in Rolling Hills

for Christmas. She asked whether she could put it on

Estates, where she continues to lead Happy Hats for

his head. Again, he nodded.

Kids, which she founded in 1991 after losing her young brother, Michael, to cancer.

“I lost Michael, my mother, father, grandmother and husband to cancer, and then my only son to an accident,” says Sheri of the losses that shaped the

Then Brandon surprised her: “Can I have one for my sister?”

Sheri told him to pick one for her too. Then came an even more unexpected request.

“He asked me if he could give me a hug,” recalls

work that would become her life’s mission. “I hope

Sheri, who leaned down and Brandon put his arms

to uplift the spirits and bring smiles and happiness to

around her shoulders.

hospitalized children fighting cancer and other critical illnesses.”

For 35 years, Happy Hats has delivered colorful hats and gifts to children in hospitals. The organization now

“I left the room crying,” she says. “I later thought, Look what a little love and a Happy Hat can do to an ailing patient. I was hooked!”

Today the work continues despite the practical chal-

partners with more than 100 hospitals and operates

lenges of running a small nonprofit. Fundraising for

with a small staff and about 40 volunteers. To date,

shipping, finding sewing volunteers, paying for admin-

more than 1 million gifts have been distributed to hos-

istrative help and replacing basic office equipment are

pitals worldwide, including Torrance Memorial Medical

ongoing needs.

Center, Providence TrinityCare Hospice, Providence

Sheri hopes to make and distribute 16,000 gifts over

Little Company of Mary and MemorialCare Miller

the next year and establish ongoing Happy Hats pro-

Children’s & Women’s Hospital.

grams at 15 additional children’s hospitals across the

One encounter, in particular, showed Sheri why the

United States.

work mattered. At Miller Children’s Hospital in Long

For those who want to help, volunteers and donors

Beach, she and a child life specialist were preparing to

are welcome. Happy Hats also invites people to visit its

deliver holiday hats to young patients. A nurse warned

Torrance facility, where sewing and crafting volunteers

her about the next child, Brandon, who had advanced

help bring the organization’s whimsical gifts to life.

cancer and was angry enough that he might throw the

After decades of loss, Sheri devotes her energy to

hat at her.

Sheri walked into his room carrying several holiday Happy Hats.

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“I said, ‘Brandon, I have a Happy Hat gift just for you. Would you like one?’”

giving children moments of joy. Sometimes that joy arrives in the form of a brightly colored hat, chosen by a child who wants to share one with someone he loves. ■

Creating the Narrative A 1920S SPANISH-STYLE ABODE IN REDONDO BEACH BECOMES A BELOVED FIRST HOME FOR AN INTERIOR DESIGNER AND HER FAMILY—FILLED WITH STORIED HEIRLOOMS, SOURCED FINDS AND TREASURED ARTWORK. Written by Jennie Nunn | Photographed by Madeline Tolle & Lauren Taylor

Just like stumbling upon a rare antique and restoring it to its original beauty, finding the ultimate home— often in the least expected place— requires both imagination, conviction and elbow grease.

This was exactly the mindset of interior designer Brooke Abcarian, founder of Carian Design, and her husband, Scott, who were ready to settle down after five years of renting in West Hollywood. They entrusted Realtor Jackie Fiske, a Palos Verdes native, to help find a single-family home for their growing family. After exploring different neighborhoods and touring several houses, all while Brooke was pregnant with their first child, they came across a 1920s Spanish-style bungalow in Redondo Beach brimming with potential.

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■

| 119

“I was ready to give up,” she recalls. “I was thinking: I’ll have the baby, and we’ll deal with this later. But Jackie

When it came to designing the interiors, Brooke in-

and I went on one more weekend trip. This was the sec-

fused a relaxed, collected, California-inspired aesthetic

ond house we saw, and the minute I saw it, I just knew.”

by mixing modern finds with meaningful artwork and

On the drive back to their rental, she stopped at Redondo Shores Shopping Center and called a friend who lived nearby.

“Even the shopping center was so cute,” remem-

pieces from Facebook Marketplace, Chairish, 1stDibs. com and Vintage on Point.

“I always knew I wanted this project for my portfolio, and what better opportunity to use your own

bers Brooke. “I told my friend: ‘I think we’re going to

house to show your capabilities?” adds Brooke. “When

raise our kids here.’ I loved the area so much. In West

something is for me, I feel way less pressure for it to be

Hollywood, I had to validate my parking just to go to

perfect. The only parameter I’m trying to meet is: Does

Target. Everything here felt a little slower.”

this bring me enough joy to bring it into my home?”

Although Brooke and Scott—both Florida natives who

120 |

had to take the reins on the renovation.”

Brooke’s design stamp shines on nearly every space,

attended Florida State University—fell in love with the

with layers of cherished items and nostalgic objects.

quaint, 1,200-square-foot dwelling just a 10-minute

A gold elephant knocker on the front door, a gift

walk to the beach, it needed extensive work, including a

from Scott, conjures memories of their honeymoon in

new roof, electrical, plumbing and landscaping.

Cambodia. In the living room, century-old oak floors

“Maybe because I’m a designer, I like a project,”

and a brick fireplace painted in Benjamin Moore’s

explains Brooke of the three-bedroom, one-bath house.

Simply White provide a backdrop for an Emmy sofa

“It was a wild time with so much going on, and Scott

from Design Within Reach and a vintage 1950s walnut

credenza topped with an African statue inherited from

lithographs by Alexander Calder and Pablo Picasso. A

Brooke’s paternal grandmother.

dining table from Nutmeg Table Company has become

The gallery wall displays a photograph by Bankpyt—a Thailand–based photographer Brooke discovered on

the gathering place for dinner parties and Mommy and Me group meetups.

Instagram—and a black-and-white floral piece made

The primary bedroom features a white oak bed from

from paper fragments by Alessandra Williams. A mir-

Akron Street flanked by brutalist-inspired nightstands

ror from Brooke’s maternal grandmother, a former art

from Mid Century NoHo.

teacher, hangs above the fireplace. Brooke’s own abstract

“I wanted this to be calm since the rest of the house is

gradient painting brings a modern touch in the corner.

so crazy with the kids,” adds Brooke. “I made the acrylic

“I wanted something to offset the vintage charm,

painting with clouds with help from my daughter. She was

so I painted it myself,” notes Brooke. “I think a lot of

crawling and rolling around on it in her diaper. There’s still

my decisions are instinctive—putting things together

grass stuck on it from her, so it’s sentimental.”

and seeing what works. I have this old mirror from my

The kids’ room, now shared by their 5-year-old

grandmother, and I knew this was the only place it fit.

daughter and 3-year-old son, is slathered in a deep

But it goes well with some of the newer elements and

Avon Green by Benjamin Moore (a wink to her daugh-

things I grew up with, like the copper horse statue on

ter’s middle name, Green) and outfitted with an Ikea

the mantel.”

crib and a pastel painting by Brooke’s mother depicting

In the adjoining dining room, a vintage brass Sciolari

her childhood neighborhood in Puerto Rico.

chandelier—once a fixture in Brooke’s childhood

“My mom did this when she was 6 years old, and

home—illuminates the space outfitted with signed

it’s my favorite piece of art,” explains Brooke. “She

| 121

claims the art gene skips a generation, but her painting proves otherwise.”

Brooke’s office, awash in a calming clay hue, is decked with a vintage Pollock chair by Knoll purchased on OfferUp and artwork by Kristjana Williams and Scott Reinhard. They also remodeled the kitchen, replete with an original 1957 O’Keefe & Merritt stove and Heath tile, and overhauled the bathroom with a new vanity and fixtures.

Beyond the family treasures and keepsakes woven throughout the home, Brooke appreciates the outdoor elements, like a wind chime left by the previous owners and a lemon tree that yields delicious fruit for lemonade.

“I love that it feels very personal to us and that a

Minding The Mantel

lot of the art or items have a story,” shares Brooke.

“It’s warm, inviting and kind of nestled. It’s not overdone. Every decision we made, I would make the

Create Balance “Try not to use too many small objects to avoid a cluttered look. You want to create visual balance without being perfectly symmetrical. It’s easier to mix things with different shapes, such as a frame with a straight edge and an artifact with an organic shape.”

Look Outside “Vary the heights and shapes and try different groupings. Flowers or branches are always a plus.

You don’t even have to go out of your way. I’ve cut some branches from our yard many times and placed three or four arranged in a vase—it looks lovely. Try things out, stand back, live with it a bit and then reassess. There’s no right or wrong.”

Get Introspective “It’s nice to have something old, with patina.

I always love things that have a story, and since your mantel will be a focal point, it’s a good place to incorporate something that brings back a good memory.”

122 |

same one again.” ■

“What makes our model different is that the services we offer don’t operate in separate silos. Tax strategy is part of the investment conversation.

Business decisions are considered alongside personal wealth. Estate strategies don’t stop at recommendations; we help move them through implementation. Our clients already have plenty to manage; they shouldn’t also have to manage us. That principle guides how we work every day.”

– TAMMY TRENTA, FAMILY FINANCIAL LLC

Women of the South Bay PROFILES

126 TAMMY TRENTA FAMILY FINANCIAL LLC

160 ELIZABETH ALLIGOOD ELIZABETH ALLIGOOD & ASSOCIATES | FIRST TEAM

128 MORGAN’S JEWELERS 130 JENNIFER CASKEY FOUNDER/OWNER, THE JEN CASKEY GROUP AT COMPASS

164 ROBIN SMITH COMPASS

132 TANYA TABIBIAN, DDS STEVEN K. OKAMOTO, DDS, INC.

165 WENDY THORLAKSON SVEHLAK THE AESTHETICS BAR

134 HAWLIE OHE WHITE SANDS DESIGN | BUILD

166 MADELYNE SALO, DDS SALO MANHATTAN BEACH

136 STRATEGIC VIEW ADVISORS

167 NOELLE ISBELL NOELLE INTERIORS

138 KAREN SARMAST PLATINUM AUTOHAUS

168 SASHA SANJAR FATTAHI A.LIGN

140 TAYA DICARLO COMPASS

PHOTOGRAPHED BY SHANE O’DONNELL

162 STRAND HILL | FORBES GLOBAL PROPERTIES

169 ROTARY CLUB OF MANHATTAN BEACH

142 BITA DAVOODIAN, DDS BEACH DENTAL CLUB

170 MEAGAN MARCUCCILLI, MD, MPH, MSCP MEAGAN MARCUCCILLI, MD, INC.

144 SUZANNE DYER STRAND HILL | FORBES GLOBAL PROPERTIES

171 BRYANNE DEGOEDE BLND PUBLIC RELATIONS

146 SAVANNA NICOLE & MARINA KELSEA NICOLE KELSEA INTERIORS, LLC

172 TANIA BIRKER VOX DJS

148 MAI PARK MAI PARK CAPITAL

173 IMAN HOBBS BROWNE GRAZE CRAZE REDONDO BEACH

150 ALY PEDERSEN THE INSPIRED PALATE

174 PAIGE NEGRETE CARTWHEELIN’ CUTIES®

152 ESTATE PROPERTIES INTERNATIONAL

175 DORA PAULAR CHEF DORA PRESENTS

154 ESTATE PROPERTIES INTERNATIONAL 156 BEACH LIFE FITNESS BOUTIQUE

176 BRITTANIE HAWLEY CALISTA.

158 DENISE RICHARDS DRICHARDS INTERIORS, INC. EDITED BY LAURA L. WATTS SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

• Women of the South Bay •

Tammy Trenta

CEO & Lead Advisor, Family Financial LLC

HOW DO AUTHENTICITY AND HOLISTIC PLANNING PLAY INTO YOUR BUSINESS MODEL? Holistic planning is really the foundation of our business. A family’s investments don’t exist separately from its taxes, business, real estate, estate plan or family dynamics, so we don’t advise that way.

Many wealth management firms are investment managers first, with planning added when a client has a specific need. We built Family Financial differently. Planning is an ongoing part of the relationship, and we stay involved through implementation rather than handing clients a list of recommendations and expecting them to coordinate everything themselves.

Authenticity means being willing to look at the full picture and have the conversations that truly matter, even when they’re complicated. Our goal is to understand where a family is today, anticipate what may be ahead and take the lead in getting the right things done.

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU STAND OUT IN YOUR MARKET? We bring an integrated approach that makes a real difference because the decisions in one area often affect every other area.

Our clients are typically successful people with increasingly complicated financial lives. They’re running businesses, managing families and making significant decisions, and they don’t have the time or the desire to coordinate multiple professionals or settle for a generic financial plan. We intentionally work with a select group of families so we can stay deeply involved and provide the level of attention and coordination they deserve.

WHAT TRAITS MAKE A GREAT LEADER? Clarity, follow-through and the willingness to say what needs to be said, even when it’s uncomfortable. And attention to detail. Big ideas matter, but leadership really shows up in execution ... understanding how the work gets done, setting a high standard and following through when no one is watching. In our business, the details matter because they affect people’s lives and their sense of security.

DESCRIBE YOUR DREAM CLIENT. Our best clients are people who have built something meaningful—a business, a career, a portfolio or a family legacy—and have reached the point where the financial complexity is taking too

Highlights

• Family Office Model • Tax Strategy • Exit Planning • Proactive Coordination much of their time and attention. As a business owner myself, I understand that world personally. Much of my career has centered on the issues that matter to owners: tax-efficient planning, integrating business and personal wealth, preparing well in advance for an eventual sale or exit, and succession.

Our best relationships are with clients who value advice, communicate openly, ask good questions and want a real partner rather than simply an investment manager. They want thoughtful strategy, but they also want someone who will help make sure it actually gets implemented.

SPEAK ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF COMMUNITY AND HOW IT’S IMPACTED YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY. I’ve lived in the South Bay for 25 years. Being part of this community has taught me that credibility is earned by consistently showing up, especially for the work no one applauds. When you live and work in the same community as your clients, your reputation isn’t separate from your business. You live inside it. That creates a level of accountability I value.

Most of our growth has come from clients and professionals who have seen how we handle complicated situations and trusted us enough to make an introduction. I’m grateful for that because it reflects the kind of relationships we hope to build: genuine, longterm and grounded in trust.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR FAMILY AND TEAM. My husband, Ryan, and our son, Jack, remind me that the work we do is ultimately about helping people create stability and opportunity for the people they love. At the office, I’m fortunate to have a close-knit team across investment management, planning, tax and operations. I stay closely involved in strategy and important decisions, but our clients have an entire team that knows them and understands their financial lives.

Disclaimer: Family Financial LLC is an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Investing involves risk.

1601 N. SEPULVEDA BLVD. #722, MANHATTAN BEACH 310-486-6763 | FAMILYFINANCIAL.BIZ | @TAMMYTRENTA

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PHOTOGRAPHED BY SHANE O’DONNELL

F

amily Financial LLC is a fee-only fiduciary wealth management firm that provides investment management, financial planning, tax strategy and preparation, and business advisory services, coordinating multiple financial professionals into one cohesive strategy. Owner Tammy Trenta has advised high-net-worth families and business owners for three decades.

• Women of the South Bay •

Morgan’s Jewelers

WHAT ARE THE TOP TRAITS THAT MAKE A GREAT BUSINESS LEADER? To be a great leader, one must maintain a clear vision, achieve high emotional intelligence and genuinely care about the people around them. In a family business especially, leadership is about creating an environment where your team feels valued and empowered while staying true to the core ideals that the business was built upon.

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU STAND OUT IN YOUR MARKET? Melissa: What truly sets Morgan’s Jewelers apart is the combination of our history, expertise and the personal relationships we build with our clients. My grandparents founded Morgan’s in 1946, and for 80 years our family has had the privilege of being part of some of the most meaningful moments in our clients’ lives. But ultimately, what differentiates us isn’t simply what we sell; it’s the trust we’ve earned in our community over those three generations.

We offer the selection, expertise and service you would expect from a luxury jeweler, along with the warmth and personal attention of a family-owned business.

From fine jewelry and timepieces to bridal, custom design, repairs, and appraisals, we offer a truly full-service experience under one roof. Our clients know that when they walk through our doors, they will receive honest guidance, genuine expertise without it ever feeling intimidating or impersonal, and a level of care that continues long after the purchase.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR TEAM. We are incredibly lucky to work alongside multiple generations, personalities and perspectives that bring different ideas and energy, and a team that truly feels like an extension of our family.

We work hard, laugh a lot, support one another and genuinely enjoy what we do. There’s a real sense of connection here, and that’s what makes Morgan’s Jewelers such a special place to work and to be a part of.

Highlights

• Fine Jewelry & Watches • Jewelry & Watch Repair • Custom Design • Appraisals DESCRIBE YOUR DREAM CLIENT. Thess: Our dream client is someone who has an appreciation for beautiful things but understands that true luxury is about more than a name or a price tag. They value exceptional craftsmanship, quality, individuality and pieces that have meaning. They’re curious and engaged. They enjoy discovering something they haven’t seen before, learning the story behind a piece, trying on something unexpected or working with us to create something entirely their own. They appreciate expert guidance but ultimately want jewelry that feels personal and reflects who they are.

Most of all, our dream client values relationships. They want a jeweler who gets to know their taste, understands what matters to them and is there for all of the moments. At Morgan’s, we want you to feel like you have a jeweler in the family—someone you can call when you need us, whether you’re looking for something extraordinary or just need your favorite piece repaired.

SPEAK ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF COMMUNITY AND HOW IT’S IMPACTED YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY. The South Bay isn’t simply where we do business; it’s our home.

This community has supported Morgan’s Jewelers for generations, and that has created a connection and sense of responsibility that goes far beyond the walls of our store. Our clients are our neighbors, our friends and the families we see at schools, restaurants, local events and throughout our everyday lives. We have the privilege of celebrating their most meaningful moments with them, and in turn they have allowed Morgan’s to become part of the fabric of this community.

That relationship means everything to us. We feel a responsibility to give back, through organizations and fundraisers, to show up and to support the community that has supported our family for so many years. Our greatest hope is that Morgan’s Jewelers continues to be more than a jewelry store, that it remains a South Bay institution people are proud to call their own.

22200 HAWTHORNE BLVD., TORRANCE | 310-375-4471 | MORGANSJEWELERS.COM | @MORGANSJEWELERS

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PHOTOGRAPHED BY SHANE O’DONNELL

M

organ’s Jewelers is a family-owned jewelry store that has served the South Bay for more than 80 years. The store offers everyday jewelry, meaningful heirloom pieces, on-site jewelry and watch repair, appraisals and custom design. Third-generation family member Melissa Varon Weinberg officially joined the business in 2004 after helping at the store while she was growing up. Manager Thess Duong has worked at Morgan’s since 2010 and in the fine jewelry industry for 25 years.

Thess Duong & Melissa Varon Weinberg

• Women of the South Bay •

Jen Caskey

Founder/Owner, The Jen Caskey Group at Compass

T

he Jen Caskey Group at Compass is a real estate team specializing in luxury residential properties throughout Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, Redondo Beach and Palos Verdes. Jen Caskey founded the group in 2022 and began her real estate career in 1991.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND. I grew up in Manhattan Beach, attended Robinson Elementary and Mira Costa High School, and graduated from the University of Southern California. My mother was a local Realtor, so real estate was part of my life from an early age. After USC, I began my career in 1991 and have since represented generations of South Bay buyers and sellers, building a business centered on relationships, discretion and deep local expertise.

WHAT TOP TRAITS MAKE A GREAT BUSINESS LEADER? A great leader needs integrity, enthusiasm and the willingness to listen. I also believe the best leaders set a high standard through their own work, communicate directly and give their team the trust and support to excel.

HOW DOES AUTHENTICITY PLAY INTO YOUR WORK? Authenticity is at the center of our business because real estate is deeply personal. We give clients honest advice, even when it is not the easiest answer, and we build relationships that last well beyond a transaction.

WHO OPENED A DOOR FOR YOU PROFESSIONALLY THAT MADE A HUGE IMPACT? My mother opened the first door for me. She was a successful Realtor in Manhattan Beach and taught me the value of preparation, hard work and treating every client with care. Today, I am proud to create opportunities for the women on my team and for my son Shane, who brings a new generation of leadership and perspective to our business.

HOW DO YOU ATTRACT AND RETAIN THE BRIGHTEST MINDS TO BE ON YOUR TEAM? We have created a culture where talented people are trusted, supported and encouraged to contribute their individual strengths.

Our team members share information, celebrate one another’s wins, step in for each other and build their careers here.

WHAT SERVICES DO YOU OFFER? Our services include buying and selling, private and off-market acquisitions, discreet listing representation, lease representation, and specialized advisory services for sports and entertainment

My Local List

• Favorite Mexican: El Sombrero • Favorite Dog Walk: The Greenbelt • Favorite Seafood: Fishing With Dynamite • Favorite Shopping: Wright’s Manhattan Beach clients. We bring highly personalized representation and sophisticated marketing to each transaction.

WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT PASSION PROJECT? I am especially excited about expanding JCG Sports & Entertainment, a specialized division serving athletes, entertainers and other high-profile clients who value privacy, discretion and a seamless experience. It is a natural extension of the trusted, highly personalized representation our team has always provided.

WHEN PEOPLE TELL THE STORY OF YOUR BUSINESS YEARS FROM NOW, WHAT DO YOU HOPE THEY’LL SAY? I hope they say we were exceptional at what we did and kind in how we did it. I want the Jen Caskey Group to be remembered for lasting relationships, meaningful community involvement and helping people feel truly at home in the South Bay. HOW CAN WE SUPPORT OTHER WOMEN IN BUSINESS? We can recommend, hire and mentor women and speak their names in rooms where opportunities are being discussed. Support is most meaningful when it is consistent and specific—not just encouragement, but real introductions, advocacy and opportunity.

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU STAND OUT IN YOUR FIELD? We are highly local. We know so many people in town, we make a point of supporting our local businesses, and we understand what makes each neighborhood and street special. Most importantly, our clients become long-term friends, and those lasting relationships are at the heart of our business.

WHAT DOES “LOCAL” MEAN TO YOU? Local means home. I grew up in Manhattan Beach, raised my three boys here and have spent my career helping people become part of this wonderful community. It means running into friends and clients around town, supporting the businesses we all love and welcoming new neighbors who often become lifelong friends.

805 MANHATTAN AVE., SUITE 201, MANHATTAN BEACH 310-200-5900 | JENCASKEYGROUP.COM | @JENCASKEYGROUP | DRE #01075946

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• Women of the South Bay •

Tanya Tabibian, DDS

Associate Dentist, Steven K. Okamoto, DDS, Inc.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE A CAREER IN THE FIELD OF DENTISTRY? Dentistry has always been a positive part of my life, thanks to my uncle, who was my dentist. My college studies in biology fueled my passion for the field, as it combines science, artistry and problemsolving while allowing me to build meaningful relationships with patients and make a real difference in their health. For women just starting in the dentistry, my advice is to go for it, seek out great mentors, ask questions and never be afraid to put yourself in situations where you can learn and grow.

WHO OPENED A DOOR FOR YOU PROFESSIONALLY THAT MADE A HUGE IMPACT? I have been incredibly fortunate to have many mentors throughout my journey in dental school, residency and now in private practice.

During my time at UCLA, I had mentors who believed in me, advocated for me and opened doors to opportunities in research and professional development. Their support continued throughout my residency, where I learned from mentors who helped shape both the dentist and the person I aspired to become.

This experience is especially meaningful because mentorship did not end with my training. Today, I have the privilege of working alongside my mentors, including Dr. Steven Okamoto, whom I originally met during my time at UCLA and continue to learn from. As I advance in my career, I hope to provide younger dentists and students with the same encouragement and support that I received.

DOES HOLISTIC PRACTICE PLAY A ROLE IN DENTISTRY? For me, treating a patient means seeing the whole person—not simply the teeth in front of me. I want to understand what brought someone in, what matters to them, what they may be nervous about and what they ultimately hope to accomplish. Creating an environment where patients feel comfortable and at ease allows us to work together toward treatment that makes sense for them.

WHAT KEEPS YOU GOING ON DIFFICULT DAYS? My patients do. Over the past few years, I’ve met so many wonderful people through dentistry. There are days when seeing a longtime patient feels like catching up with someone I know!

Highlights

• Comprehensive Dental Care • Aesthetic Cosmetic Dentistry • Hygiene & Periodontal Care • Conventional & Implant Prosthodontics Outside work, spending quality time with my fiancé, family and friends keeps me grounded and reminds me of everything I have to be grateful for.

HOW DO YOU STAND OUT IN YOUR INDUSTRY? I want patients to feel that they have my full attention. I’m naturally thorough, and I love teaching and explaining, so I make a point of walking patients through what I’m seeing and helping them understand their care. I’m also very conscious of how vulnerable it can feel to sit in a dental chair. My goal is to create a warm, calm environment where patients feel comfortable asking questions and leave feeling cared for and understood.

WHAT CAN WE EACH DO TO SUPPORT OTHER WOMEN IN BUSINESS? Some of the women who made the biggest impact on me early in my education believed in me before I had fully developed that confidence in myself. My first mentor in high school was a woman, and one of my earliest mentors in dental school was as well. Their confidence in me helped give me the confidence to keep pushing myself. Supporting other women means doing the same for someone else by sharing opportunities, making introductions, advocating for others and being generous with what we’ve learned along the way.

HAVE YOU HAD A PATIENT WHO REMINDED YOU WHY YOU CHOSE DENTISTRY? At the end of my residency, a patient gave me a handwritten card that I still cherish. When we first met, he was struggling with his dental health and confidence. Throughout his treatment, I witnessed a remarkable transformation in both his smile and selfassurance, leading him to make positive changes in his life. In the card, he wrote, “Dentists can save lives and give people new ones.

You did that for me.” This reminder of our impact beyond dental health left a lasting impression on me. It’s an experience I will carry with me throughout my career.

22330 HAWTHORNE BLVD., SUITE E, TORRANCE | 310-373-1120 | OKAMOTODDS.COM

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PHOTOGRAPHED BY LAUREN TAYLOR

T

anya Tabibian, DDS, is an associate dentist at Steven K. Okamoto, DDS, Inc., a prosthodontic and general dentistry practice in Torrance. She earned her bachelor’s degree at the University of California, Irvine, and her dental degree at the University of Los Angeles School of Dentistry. Dr. Tanya joined the practice two years ago.

• Women of the South Bay •

Hawlie Ohe

Co-Founder/Director of Design, White Sands Design | Build

HOW DOES HOLISTIC PRACTICE PLAY INTO YOUR BUSINESS MODEL? For us, holistic means starting from the dirt and staying with a client through the last piece of furniture—construction and design as one integrated process. It also refers to a harmony between form and function. Any material can be made to look beautiful, but will it actually endure a busy life? In my work, functionality always comes first, and then I dress it up.

WHEN PEOPLE TELL THE STORY OF YOUR BUSINESS YEARS FROM NOW, WHAT DO YOU HOPE THEY’LL SAY? I love helping clients create their personal sanctuary—the place where they’ll wake up, raise their families and make their most important memories. Years from now, I want to know that my clients have continued to experience joy in their homes and they’ve felt nurtured and enriched by every day they spent there, whether in solitude or the company of loved ones.

WHAT CAN WE EACH DO TO SUPPORT OTHER WOMEN IN BUSINESS? I think women in business should compare notes, share our stories and work toward common practices. We all have the same pain points, and we have so much to learn from each other. The South Bay is a small, tightly connected community, and the more we share wisdom instead of just cheering each other on from a distance, the faster we all grow.

WHAT KEEPS YOU GOING ON DIFFICULT DAYS? I keep my eyes on what we’re building. The sense of home we cultivate for clients is always worth it in the end, and knowing that makes the hard days feel more manageable. I also lean in to my routines: healthy food, exercise, time with my family.

Highlights

• Custom Home Builds • Full-Scope Renovations • Interior Design • Furnishing & Styling IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU STAND OUT IN YOUR MARKET? Rather than impose our aesthetic onto clients, we work more like therapists. We extrapolate who someone is and what they actually need, and then use our training and resources to help them realize their vision. Our team is integrated enough to take on every element and make the whole process seamless. I don’t know of another design-build team that brings together such a high-end, bespoke product and the efficiency of a single team.

WHAT BELIEF HAVE YOU COMPLETELY CHANGED YOUR MIND ABOUT? When I was starting out, I used to think more was always better: more projects, more scale, more growth. But now, especially as my kids grow older, I want the opposite: fewer projects that I can focus on with thoughtfulness and intention. What I want now is a business that provides for my family and still lets me be present for them so I can live the kind of life I’m helping my clients realize.

WHAT DOES IT FEEL LIKE TO BUILD HOMES IN THE COMMUNITY WHERE YOU’RE RAISING YOUR KIDS? These aren’t just abstract projects; they’re places where people I know, or who I will come to know, will spend their most important years. Some of them are on streets that I walk on every day with my kids. That degree of closeness is something I carry into every decision we make, from the materials we use to the ways we communicate. It’s why the work we do means as much to us as it does to the people we do it for.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR TEAM. This is a male-dominated industry, but women create the soul of a home. That’s why White Sands features female voices at the center of our design and build teams. Nicole, my design partner of seven years, and Heather Joe, our project manager, are the core of what we do. Women are master organizers and leaders; they bring thoughtfulness to the communication and flow.

141 ARENA ST., EL SEGUNDO | 310-607-0176 | WHITESANDSDESIGNBUILD.COM | @WHITESANDSDESIGNBUILD

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hite Sands Design | Build creates custom luxury homes and interiors, offering everything from ground-up builds and full remodels to standalone interior design and furnishing. Led by Hawlie Ohe and Brett Malkin since 2014, the firm offers a fully in-house design-build model, giving clients one process, one unified vision and one integrated team from foundation to finish.

Hawlie previously worked in journalism and television before her work at a lifestyle blog ignited her passion for design. She went back to school at the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising before opening White Sands Design | Build. Twelve years later, she’s raising her two sons in the South Bay and designing homes for the community she loves.

• Women of the South Bay •

Strategic View Advisors

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU STAND OUT IN YOUR MARKET? The depth of our planning. We bring different areas of a client’s financial life together through one team, pairing sophisticated advice with a highly personal experience. The result is guidance that’s informed by the full picture, not just one piece of it.

HOW DOES AUTHENTICITY PLAY INTO YOUR BUSINESS MODEL? Our mission is to partner with clients to Achieve Financial Peace of Mind™. That starts with understanding the person behind the plan. The better we understand a client’s goals, values and priorities, the better positioned we are to provide advice that supports what matters most to them.

WHAT CAN WE EACH DO TO SUPPORT OTHER WOMEN IN BUSINESS? Turn support into action. Make the introduction, recommend her for the opportunity, give her credit and advocate for her when she isn’t in the room.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE A CAREER IN THE FINANCIAL SERVICES INDUSTRY? Mollie Kaiser: There is no single path into financial services, and the women of Strategic View Advisors are a reflection of that. I started my career in social work before finding my way to financial planning. Starting over in a new industry taught me the value of staying curious, building expertise and being intentional about the career you want to create. My advice to women starting out is not to be afraid of a nonlinear path. It can become one of your greatest strengths.

WHO OPENED A DOOR FOR YOU PROFESSIONALLY THAT MADE A HUGE IMPACT, AND WHO ARE YOU NOW HELPING? Shanelle Sua: I’m committed to helping the next generation of women pursue careers in financial services by partnering with student organizations like USC Smart Women Securities.

Kristi Toyota: My mom has been my biggest advocate, showing

Highlights

• Financial Planning • Investment Planning • Retirement Income Planning • Estate Planning me through her example the determination it takes to build a career. Following her example, I strive to help others grow and succeed.

Haley Moltyaner: For me, that person is right here on our team.

Natalie Rutledge trusted me with opportunities to grow early in my career, and I hope to pay that forward for the women who come next.

HOW DO YOU ATTRACT AND RETAIN THE BRIGHTEST MINDS TO BE ON YOUR TEAM? Give talented people meaningful work, surround them with people they can learn from and create room for them to grow. Some of the strongest careers at SVA have evolved as people developed new expertise and took on greater responsibility.

SPEAK ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF COMMUNITY AND HOW IT’S IMPACTED YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY. Giving back is an important part of who we are. Through SVA CARES, led by Shanelle Sua, our team dedicates time throughout the year to causes that matter to us. It strengthens our connection to the South Bay and gives us another way to invest in the community we call home.

WHEN PEOPLE TELL THE STORY OF YOUR BUSINESS YEARS FROM NOW, WHAT DO YOU HOPE THEY’LL SAY? That we built relationships that lasted. Through changing markets and different stages of life, we helped clients make important decisions with confidence and ultimately Achieve Financial Peace of Mind™.

Disclaimer: Northwestern Mutual is the marketing name for The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company (NM) and its subsidiaries in Milwaukee, WI. Members of Strategic View Advisors use Strategic View Advisors as a marketing name for doing business as representatives of Northwestern Mutual. Strategic View Advisors is not a registered investment adviser, broker-dealer, insurance agency, or federal savings bank. Northwestern Mutual Private Client Group is a select group of Northwestern Mutual advisors and representatives. Northwestern Mutual Private Client Group is not a registered investment adviser, broker-dealer, insurance agency, federal savings bank or other legal entity. To view detailed disclosures regarding individual representatives, view their information at strategicviewadvisors.com.

1230 ROSECRANS AVE., SUITE 100, MANHATTAN BEACH | 213-243-7064 | STRATEGICVIEWADVISORS.COM

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ollie Kaiser, CFP®, MBA, CLU®, RICP®, CDFA®, began her career in social work after earning a degree in psychology from Pepperdine University. After six years in the field, she made the leap into financial services and earned her MBA. Today she is a partner and private wealth advisor with Strategic View Advisors, where she helps shape the team’s comprehensive approach to financial planning. Strategic View Advisors is a financial planning team that operates under the umbrella of the Northwestern Mutual Private Client Group.

Northwestern Mutual has been in business for the past 169 years.

• Women of the South Bay •

Karen Sarmast

Co-owner/Creative Director, Platinum Autohaus

WHAT ARE THE TOP TRAITS THAT MAKE A GREAT BUSINESS LEADER? Smile and reflect positivity, even if it’s your worst day. Incorporate kindness even if the customer has a complaint. Always be helpful and listen to new ideas.

WHO OPENED A DOOR FOR YOU PROFESSIONALLY THAT MADE A HUGE IMPACT? WHOSE DOOR ARE YOU OPENING NOW? Geoff Emery, the previous owner of Porsche Beverly Hills, gave me advice that still holds in my mind: Don’t ever lose your passion for creating good energy in your workplace, wherever you may go.

That great advice gives me ideas to encourage my two children.

This year my son has innovated new ideas while working for our family dealership, and my daughter is working with horses. I look at them now and see me—we are all creators!

WHEN PEOPLE TELL THE STORY OF YOUR BUSINESS YEARS FROM NOW, WHAT DO YOU HOPE THEY’LL SAY? Whatever I did, I did it with passion and creativity of the heart.

WHAT CAN WE EACH DO TO SUPPORT OTHER WOMEN IN BUSINESS? First, give a big hug! Then lift each other up. Women can go through so much in life, and we deserve to listen and help one another be our best.

WHAT KEEPS YOU GOING ON DIFFICULT DAYS? Coffee, tea, my horses and dogs, listening to good upbeat songs.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE YOUR INTERESTS? ANY WORDS OF ADVICE FOR OTHER WOMEN? I’ve always loved the smell of leather in a foreign car. I’ve always loved to play the piano and write a good song. I think in any field you find yourself in, you must find passion. Passion fuels creativity and the energy to carry on.

Highlights

• Luxury Auto Dealership • Sales & Buying • Advice • Financing WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT PASSION PROJECT? Music. When I have free time, I play piano and write songs. I’m looking forward to writing more songs and finally releasing some in 2027.

WHAT ARE THE LATEST TRENDS IN THE AUTOMOBILE INDUSTRY THAT YOU’RE LOVING? The new custom design experience in the luxury auto industry! I love the fact that some of these cars and SUVs are coming out in bolder colors, with options to add personalized art or even colored interior art. I love that you can create and build your own design— online and with a tap of a button.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND. My father was the planning engineer for the Caterpillar tractor company headquarters in Peoria, Illinois. We lived on a ranch with horses, cows, dogs, cats and goats. A third-generation German, my father loved the farm! My first job at age 8 as an only child was to help him take care of all the animals. To this day, I thank my him for that; it taught me responsibility at a young age.

I first attended a nearby two-year college, where I could take my horse with me for the equestrian basic care program. I then transferred to Bradley University and went to California on spring break, staying with my aunt and uncle. I decided to try my luck and enroll at UCLA. It was always my dream to live in California. I got accepted, and my family helped me move to California.

HOW HAS THE COMMUNITY IMPACTED YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY? Shout-out to the South Bay for 29 years of a great, supportive community and repeated clientele. It’s always a great beach collaboration when the weather is awesome and our clients’ coastal lifestyles need a luxury car! This makes the South Bay very special, like a luxury planet. We are also so grateful for the years of Southbay magazine. There’s just something about giving our small business a spotlight that’s so wonderful!

610 N. PACIFIC COAST HWY., REDONDO BEACH 310-318-3122 | PLATINUMAUTOHAUS.COM | @PLATINUM.AUTOHAUS | @KARENSARMAST

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s creative director and co-owner of Platinum Autohaus, Karen Sarmast assists her husband, Ali Sarmast, at their luxury auto dealership. Karen previously worked as executive assistant to the owner of Porsche Beverly Hills. She met Ali in 1997. Later that year, Platinum Autohaus was established, starting with one car lot. They have now expanded to three lots and will soon celebrate 30 years together.

Karen & show horse Pazookie, featuring a Platinum Autohaus G 63 AMG Mercedes-Benz at Maverick Farms/ Peter Weber Equestrian Center

• Women of the South Bay •

Taya DiCarlo Realtor®, Compass

HOW DOES AUTHENTICITY PLAY INTO YOUR BUSINESS MODEL? Authenticity is everything in my business. I’m going to tell my clients the truth—even when it isn’t necessarily the answer they want to hear or the one that benefits me—because their trust will always matter more to me than a transaction.

WHEN PEOPLE TELL THE STORY OF YOUR REAL ESTATE BUSINESS YEARS FROM NOW, WHAT DO YOU HOPE THEY’LL SAY? I hope they say that I actually cared—because I do. I care deeply about my clients, their experience and what happens long after we work together. I’ve earned the ability to be discerning about who I work with, and I choose people who value and appreciate me as much as I value and appreciate them.

WHAT BELIEF HAVE YOU COMPLETELY CHANGED YOUR MIND ABOUT? Early in my career, I thought success meant saying yes to every opportunity and being available at all times. Experience taught me that boundaries do not make me less committed; they allow me to bring more clarity, energy and intention to the clients and work that matter most.

My Local List

Favorite Hairstylist: Marcela Cabrera Favorite Boutique: Dacha Favorite Plants: OC Succulents, Torrance Favorite Dentist: Fulbright Dental assumption, I have learned to let the quality of my work speak for itself—and I’m having fun while doing it.

WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT PASSION PROJECT? My Taya’s 2 Cents video series, where I connect with a community of more than 100,000 followers. It began as a way to share what I know about real estate and became a huge part of how I grew my social media following. Today, more than 70% of my Instagram audience is women ages 25 to 65, so I have intentionally niched down to speak more directly to them. My page is now focused on “Discovering how to live well and have fun in my 40s—sharing what I know, what I’m learning and what’s worth it (and not).” My content now reaches far beyond real estate, from supporting local businesses and sharing favorite finds to paying forward hard-earned lessons and talking honestly about challenges along the way.

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU STAND OUT IN THE REAL ESTATE INDUSTRY? I’m known for my video marketing expertise and my negotiation skills. But the real differentiator is how personally invested I am. I tell clients what I would tell my closest friend, and I stay focused on the decision that will serve them long after closing day.

WHAT CAN WE EACH DO TO SUPPORT OTHER WOMEN IN BUSINESS? Sing the praises of a woman who runs her own business in rooms she is not in. Make the introduction, support the new venture by showing up and pay it forward—not only because it may come back to you tenfold, but because it feels good to help someone and treat others the way you would want to be treated. I would not be who I am or where I am in my life without the love and support of my girlfriends—and that includes my mom.

WHAT’S THE MOST VALUABLE PROFESSIONAL ADVICE YOU HAVE RECEIVED? Early in my career, I told my mentor and friend Cindy that I felt I had to prove how smart and capable I was because people sometimes underestimated me as a young, blonde woman. She told me, “Let them think that. You know you’re smart and you know you’re great at what you do, so let them talk while you laugh all the way to the bank.” I still remind myself of her advice all these years later. Rather than wasting my energy trying to change every

WHAT KEEPS YOU GOING ON DIFFICULT DAYS? My children. My boys are now 10 and 12, and they keep me busy, laughing and grounded. My love and devotion to them have carried me through more difficult days than I can count. Dolly Parton said, “Don’t get so busy making a living that you forget to make a life,” and motherhood has taught me exactly that. If I am going to work hard, we had better play hard too. In our spare time, we are happiest at the beach, cooking together at home or planning an action-packed vacation.

1221 HERMOSA AVE., SUITE 210, HERMOSA BEACH | 310-431-8251 | TAYADICARLO.COM | @TAYADICARLO | DRE #01751317

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aya DiCarlo is a South Bay Realtor with more than $250 million in residential sales and 15+ years of experience helping clients buy, sell and invest throughout Greater Los Angeles. She has worked in residential real estate since 2009 and joined Compass in December 2017 as a founding member of its South Bay office.

• Women of the South Bay •

Bita Davoodian, DDS Owner, Beach Dental Club

WHAT ARE THE TOP TRAITS THAT MAKE A GREAT BUSINESS LEADER? Dentistry is an intensely personal field. Our patients are often anxious, vulnerable or in pain. In these moments, it’s not just technical proficiency that builds trust; it’s how we communicate, reassure and connect. The ability to read a patient’s nonverbal cues, to calm their fears and to foster a welcoming, respectful environment— these are leadership qualities just as vital as treatment planning or practice management. While traditional business rhetoric has undervalued these traits, in reality they enhance patient satisfaction, team cohesion and, ultimately, the success of the practice.

WHAT PART OF YOUR JOB ARE PATIENTS MOST SURPRISED BY? How much of my job is focused on prevention and education—not just procedures. People often think dentistry is mostly about fixing problems like cavities or doing cosmetic work, but a big part of what I do is helping patients avoid those issues altogether.

Another surprise is how closely oral health is connected to overall health. We’re often looking for early signs of systemic conditions—like inflammation, nutritional deficiencies or even sleeprelated issues—during routine exams. Patients are also sometimes surprised by how much psychology is involved. Managing anxiety, building trust and helping people feel comfortable is just as important as the clinical work.

WHAT DOES “MEETING PATIENTS WHERE THEY ARE” ACTUALLY LOOK LIKE IN YOUR WORK? “Meeting patients where they are” means recognizing that every person comes in with a different background, comfort level and set of priorities—and adjusting my approach accordingly. Instead of expecting patients to fit into a rigid model of care, I create an environment where they feel heard, supported and empowered to take the next step.

On a practical level, that might mean tailoring how I communicate. Some patients want detailed explanations and to be involved in every decision, while others feel overwhelmed and prefer a

Highlights

• Digital & Laser Dentistry • Preventive Care • Precise & Pain-Minimized Procedures • Dental & Systemic Health simpler, step-by-step plan. It also means being mindful of dental anxiety—taking extra time, moving at a slower pace and making sure patients feel in control during their visit.

It can also look like adapting treatment plans. Ideally, there’s a gold-standard approach, but not everyone is in a position—financially, emotionally or logistically—to pursue it right away. Meeting patients where they are means offering realistic options, prioritizing what matters most and building a plan they can actually follow.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT THE SOUTH BAY? Being near the ocean brings a calm and perspective to daily life, and that carries over into how people approach their health.

There’s a strong appreciation for staying active and a real sense of community here. I often see patients at local events, coffee shops or just walking along the beach, and it makes the relationships feel more personal. From a professional standpoint, I appreciate that people in the South Bay are proactive and engaged when it comes to their health. It creates an environment where prevention, education and long-term care really resonate, which makes the work even more fulfilling.

WHAT CAN WE EACH DO TO SUPPORT OTHER WOMEN IN BUSINESS? As a woman in dentistry, I define my leadership style as collaborative, compassionate and purpose-driven. I believe leadership is about inspiring trust, fostering growth and elevating others around you. In a profession that’s both highly technical and deeply personal, I lead with empathy and clarity, whether I’m guiding my team, mentoring students or supporting patients in making informed decisions about their health. Being a woman in a historically male-dominated field has taught me the value of resilience, preparation and presence. My approach prioritizes open communication, continuous learning and creating a practice culture where every team member feels seen, heard and empowered to contribute meaningfully. Leadership, to me, is not a title; it’s a responsibility to advocate for integrity, innovation and inclusivity in dentistry.

1959 KINGSDALE AVE., REDONDO BEACH | 310-793-1000 | DRDAVOODIAN.COM

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each Dental Club is a modern dental practice offering preventive, restorative and cosmetic dentistry. Owner Bita Davoodian, DDS, uses advanced technology and tools such as 3D imaging, digital diagnostics, intraoral scanners and cameras, and cone beam CT imaging to improve accuracy and the patient experience. She launched Beach Dental Club in 2012 and has worked in dentistry for nearly three decades. Dr. Davoodian mentors dental students and was a clinical restorative instructor at the UCLA School of Dentistry for about 12 years.

• Women of the South Bay •

Suzanne Dyer

Luxury Real Estate Advisor, Strand Hill | Forbes Global Properties

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU STAND OUT IN YOUR WORK? Experience and local knowledge are difficult to replicate. I’ve been through virtually every kind of market and transaction, and I think strategically. Sometimes the best advice is to renovate before selling; sometimes it’s to do almost nothing. Sometimes it’s to push for another $500,000, and sometimes it’s to take a great offer. My job is to know the difference.

WHAT TOP TRAITS MAKE A GREAT BUSINESS LEADER? Work ethic, judgment, resilience and the willingness to tell people the truth even when it isn’t what they want to hear. Great leaders make decisions and take responsibility for them. Real estate teaches you very quickly that you can’t control everything. What you can control is how prepared you are, how hard you work and how you respond when something doesn’t go according to plan.

WHO OPENED A DOOR FOR YOU PROFESSIONALLY THAT MADE A HUGE IMPACT? I’ve benefited from many people who trusted me with opportunities throughout my career, particularly clients who referred their friends and families to me. My biggest influence was my mother, Kathleen Tonsich, who was a Realtor for 40 years and managed a large real estate office in Palos Verdes. She liked to joke that I started my real estate career at 7 years old, holding open houses with her. I want younger women to understand that they don’t have to choose between having a family and building a serious career. It isn’t always easy, but it is absolutely possible.

WHAT DOES SUCCESS MEAN TO YOU NOW, COMPARED WITH WHEN YOU STARTED? When I was younger, success was about building the business, selling more homes and proving what I could accomplish. Today, I still love competing and I still love putting together a great deal, but success has become broader. It’s having a business that I’ve built over decades, clients who become friends, children I’m proud of, and the freedom to spend time with the people and pursuits that matter to me. At this point in my career, success isn’t just what I’ve built. It’s being able to enjoy it.

Highlights

• Luxury & Complex Property Sales • Probate, Trust & Estate Sales • Divorce & Court-Related Sales • Foreclosures & Short Sales WHAT BELIEF HAVE YOU COMPLETELY CHANGED YOUR MIND ABOUT? Early in my career, I thought every transaction ultimately came down to price. I’ve learned that people are much more complicated than that. For someone selling a home they’ve owned for 30 or 40 years, who buys it can matter enormously. Timing, certainty, convenience and even knowing that the next family will love the home can sometimes matter as much as squeezing out the last dollar.

WHEN PEOPLE TELL THE STORY OF YOUR BUSINESS YEARS FROM NOW, WHAT DO YOU HOPE THEY’LL SAY? I hope they’ll say I was someone they trusted. Sales numbers and awards are wonderful, but eventually people remember how you handled the moments that mattered to them. A home is often someone’s largest financial asset, but it’s also where they raised their children and built their life. I want clients to feel that I understood both sides of that equation.

SPEAK ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF COMMUNITY. Community has been woven through every stage of my life.

I raised my children here and spent years volunteering in our schools and organizations, including PTA, the Peninsula Education Foundation, Sandpipers, National Charity League and other community groups. Over the years, those genuine relationships I developed at these organizations naturally became an important part of my life and career.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR FAMILY AND TEAM. I’m married and the mother of four children, and my family has always been at the center of my life. Building a real estate career while raising four children taught me to be organized, flexible and efficient with my time. And I’m fortunate to work with people who understand that exceptional service is about details. Luxury real estate can look glamorous from the outside, but behind every successful transaction is an enormous amount of preparation, communication and problem-solving.

79 MALAGA COVE PLAZA, PALOS VERDES ESTATES 310-528-7480 | SUZANNEDYER.COM | @SUZANNEDYERREALTOR | DRE #01054310

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ealtor® Suzanne Dyer helps clients buy and sell residential real estate throughout the Palos Verdes Peninsula and South Bay, with a particular focus on luxury and unique properties. She grew up on the Palos Verdes Peninsula, graduated from Miraleste High School and attended the University of Southern California. She began selling real estate in 1990 and has since closed more than 1,000 homes, representing more than $1 billion in career sales.

• Women of the South Bay •

Savanna Nicole & Marina Kelsea Co-Owners, Nicole Kelsea Interiors, LLC

WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT PASSION PROJECT? Right now, our passion project is Nicole Kelsea Interiors. We’re in such an exciting stage of figuring out what the next version of the company looks like—expanding our inventory, growing our team, taking on larger design projects and dreaming about where the brand could go beyond staging and design.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE A CAREER IN YOUR FIELD? ANY WORDS OF ADVICE FOR WOMEN JUST STARTING IN THIS INDUSTRY? Funny enough, neither of us originally pursued careers in design.

Savanna became a licensed marriage and family therapist, and Marina earned her teaching credential. But for years we dreamed about building a business together. Eventually, we decided to take a chance on ourselves. Our advice is that it’s never too late to change direction, and you don’t need to have everything perfectly figured out before you start. You learn so much by doing, and confidence tends to come after you take the leap … not before.

WHAT KEEPS YOU GOING ON DIFFICULT DAYS? Our family, without question. Our dad passed away when we were young, and he was a business owner himself. We think about how proud he would be to see his daughters building a business together today. A huge part of why we do this is to create a life where work and family can exist together—and hopefully build something meaningful that one day we can pass down to our own children.

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU STAND OUT IN YOUR MARKET? We specialize in thoughtfully preparing homes for market through vacant and supplemental staging, as well as creating beautiful, livable spaces through interior design. We approach staging through the lens of interior designers, so our goal isn’t simply to fill a home with furniture—it’s to create a space buyers can genuinely envision themselves living in. We can also help prepare a home for the market earlier in the process, offering guidance on fixtures, finishes and other selections rather than only stepping in once the home is complete. We’re intentional about every layer—from

My Local List

Favorite Restaurant: Trani’s Dockside Station Favorite Coffee Shop: Aventurero Coffee Favorite Glow: Shaded Mobile Tanning Favorite Poke: Jus’ Poke the scale and placement of the furniture to the art, textiles and finishing touches.

WHAT’S THE MOST UNCONVENTIONAL PIECE OF BUSINESS ADVICE YOU’VE EVER RECEIVED? Sometimes you have to say “no” to grow. It sounds backward when you’re building a business and your instinct is to take every opportunity that comes your way, but learning that not every project, client or opportunity is the right opportunity has been a game changer for us. Protecting your time and your brand leaves room for the things you actually want to build.

WHAT STRATEGIES HAVE YOU FOUND MOST EFFECTIVE IN GROWING YOUR BUSINESS LOCALLY? Relationships, without question. So much of our growth has come organically through referrals, repeat clients and relationships with local agents, homeowners and other professionals. In a community like the South Bay, doing great work for one person has an interesting way of leading you to the next five.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR TEAM. Nicole Kelsea Interiors really is a family affair. We’re sisters and business partners, and our mom is part of our team. Behind the scenes are our incredibly supportive husbands, who trusted us when we decided to take a leap of faith and build this business.

Now, with Joelle, 4, and Nolan, 2, watching along, we’re building something that we hope gives us the best of both worlds: a career we love and a life centered around family.

WHAT BELIEF HAVE YOU COMPLETELY CHANGED YOUR MIND ABOUT—AND WHAT CAUSED THE SHIFT? Early on, we thought being good at what we did meant we should be able to do almost everything ourselves. As the business grew, we realized that growth actually requires the opposite: building a great team, creating systems and learning to let go of things so you can spend more time doing what you do best.

TORRANCE | 310-720-0394 | NICOLEKELSEAINTERIORS.COM | @NICOLEKELSEAINTERIORS

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icole Kelsea Interiors is a full-service home staging and interior design studio serving the South Bay and surrounding areas. Owners Savanna Nicole and Marina Kelsea specialize in interior design, remodels, investment property flips and interior styling. They both earned bachelor’s degrees before pursuing advanced education, then gained hands-on industry experience working alongside a contractor for several years. The sisters launched Nicole Kelsea Interiors in 2022.

• Women of the South Bay •

Mai Park, CPWA®

Managing Director/Private Wealth Manager, Mai Park Capital

WHAT TRAITS MAKE A GREAT BUSINESS LEADER? Great business leaders lead with empathy and loyalty, building trust and strong relationships with both clients and their team.

Flexibility and composure allow them to navigate challenges and make thoughtful decisions under pressure. Passion drives continual improvement, while knowledge builds the confidence and expertise needed to lead effectively.

HOW DOES AUTHENTICITY PLAY INTO YOUR BUSINESS MODEL? Authenticity begins with honesty and always putting the client first. I approach every relationship with a servant’s heart—a philosophy my partner, Laila Pence, has always emphasized and one that deeply resonates with me. Genuine care, transparency and doing what is right build trust, and I believe that trust is the foundation for lasting relationships and longevity.

HOW DO YOU ATTRACT AND RETAIN THE BRIGHTEST MINDS TO BE ON YOUR TEAM? At Mai Park Capital, in partnership with Pence Wealth Management, we foster a collaborative culture where success is measured collectively. Our team of more than 30 professionals across the South Bay and Orange County, including a specialized investment team, brings deep expertise to our clients. We attract top talent by emphasizing excellence, teamwork and professional growth.

HOW DO YOU STAND OUT IN YOUR MARKET? I differentiate myself through an advanced understanding of sophisticated investment strategies and complex financial instruments that extend beyond traditional wealth management. My experience includes individual security analysis, arbitrage strategies, concentrated positions, equity compensation and sophisticated approaches to managing portfolio risk. As a CPWA® professional, I bring specialized training in addressing the interconnected tax, investment, retirement and estate-planning needs of high-net-worth clients. This depth allows me to evaluate complex

Highlights

• Private Wealth Expertise • Advanced Wealth Planning • Highly Tailored Strategies • Executive & Equity Compensation Planning financial situations from multiple perspectives and develop highly tailored strategies for each client.

WHEN PEOPLE TELL THE STORY OF YOUR BUSINESS YEARS FROM NOW, WHAT DO YOU HOPE THEY’LL SAY? I hope people will say that I genuinely cared about my clients and the lives behind their financial goals. I want to be remembered for listening, putting people first and making a meaningful difference.

Wealth management is about more than money; it is about helping people create confidence, security and opportunity. Ultimately, I hope my work is remembered for changing lives for the better.

WHAT TYPES OF CLIENTS AND FINANCIAL SITUATIONS ARE BEST SUITED FOR YOUR PRACTICE? I advise affluent families, founders and senior executives whose balance sheets often combine RSUs, nonqualified and incentive stock options, deferred compensation, concentrated securities, private investments and multigenerational planning needs. These situations require advanced knowledge of financial markets and complex financial instruments. My role is to translate that complexity into a disciplined, integrated decision framework.

WHAT RESOURCES AND EXPERIENCE DO CLIENTS RECEIVE WHEN WORKING WITH MAI PARK CAPITAL? As managing director at Pence Wealth Management and founder of Mai Park Capital in partnership with Pence, I combine seniorlevel judgment with institutional research depth. I am supported by more than 30 professionals, including a full-time investment team that conducts fundamental securities research, macroeconomic and sector analysis, portfolio construction and ongoing risk monitoring. That depth supports highly customized advice delivered through our Torrance and Newport Beach offices.

Disclaimer: *AUM as of 8/27/26. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, Member FINRA/ SIPC.

990 W. 190TH ST., SUITE 5000, TORRANCE | 5000 BIRCH ST., SUITE 8000, NEWPORT BEACH 949-220-1376 | MAIPARKCAPITAL.COM

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ai Park Capital, in partnership with Pence Wealth Management, provides highly tailored wealth management for affluent individuals and families with complex financial needs, with over $3.2 billion in combined assets under management*. As a Certified Private Wealth Advisor®, Mai Park specializes in investment management, tax-aware strategies, retirement planning and comprehensive wealth solutions. She has worked in the financial industry for 23 years and was recognized

by Forbes as a Top Women Wealth Advisor Best-in-State in 2023, 2024 and 2025.

• Women of the South Bay •

Aly Pedersen

Executive Chef/Owner, The Inspired Palate

Highlights

• Farm-to-Table • Artistic Culinary Design • Full-Service Catering • Interactive Guest Experiences

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU STAND OUT IN YOUR MARKET? Over the years, I’ve worked to develop a style that is distinctly my own. Our signature cheese-and-charcuterie tables are a perfect example. They have evolved from traditional grazing tables into works of art that have become one of the most recognizable elements of my work. I love when someone walks into an event and knows Chef Aly was there before they’ve even been told.

for the host and special for their guests. True luxury is feeling that something was created specifically for you rather than selected from a standard menu.

WHAT BELIEF HAVE YOU COMPLETELY CHANGED YOUR MIND ABOUT? Earlier in my career, I thought being accommodating, keeping my pricing accessible and saying yes as often as possible made me a better business owner. Over time, I’ve learned that knowing the value of my work and pricing sustainably allows me to source better ingredients, hire talented staff and give each event the level of attention it deserves.

WHAT CAN WE EACH DO TO SUPPORT OTHER WOMEN IN BUSINESS? Share opportunities. If I trust and believe in another woman professionally, I want to recommend her, refer business to her, share resources with her and bring her into opportunities she may not have had access to otherwise. There is room for all of us to succeed, and we accomplish far more when we view other women as a community rather than competition.

WHEN PEOPLE TELL THE STORY OF YOUR BUSINESS YEARS FROM NOW, WHAT DO YOU HOPE THEY’LL SAY? I hope The Inspired Palate is remembered for pushing the boundaries of what catering can look and feel like. More importantly, I hope people remember how we made them feel and the relationships we built along the way. Being trusted with someone’s wedding, anniversary, birthday or other milestone—and then being invited back for the next one—is one of the most meaningful parts of what I do.

WHAT DOES “LOCAL” MEAN TO YOU? For me, local is really about relationships and community. So much of my business has grown through referrals and repeat clients, and over the years I’ve had the privilege of becoming a part of so many milestones. There is something incredibly special about not just serving a community, but becoming part of its annual events and traditions.

WHAT ARE THE LATEST TRENDS IN YOUR INDUSTRY THAT YOU’RE LOVING? I love the movement toward experiential and interactive dining, where food becomes part of the entertainment and overall event design. We’re doing more elaborate culinary installations and unexpected presentations that encourage guests to interact with the food rather than simply walk through a traditional buffet. It gives us so much more freedom to be creative and make each event feel unique.

WHAT DOES LUXURY MEAN TO YOU IN CATERING? To me, luxury isn’t necessarily about excess; it’s about thoughtfulness. It’s beautiful ingredients, intentional presentation, personalization and all of the small details that make an event feel effortless

HOW DO YOU TURN FOOD INTO AN EXPERIENCE? I approach food from the perspective of both a designer and an artist. I think about color, height, texture, serving pieces, florals, seasonality, and even how guests will move around and interact with the food. I want the visual impact to draw guests in before they ever take their first bite.

HOW HAS YOUR VISION FOR THE INSPIRED PALATE EVOLVED? Earlier in my career, growth meant taking every opportunity I could. Today, my vision is much more intentional. I am focused on the kinds of events I want to create, the quality of work I want associated with my business and continuing to refine the direction of The Inspired Palate. Success for me now is less about doing more and more about investing my time in work I’m genuinely proud to put my name on.

TORRANCE | 310-283-4114 | THEINSPIREDPALATE.COM | @THE_INSPIRED_PALATE

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he Inspired Palate is a full-service catering and events company led by executive chef Aly Pedersen, who founded the business in 2015 after attending and working at The New School of Cooking in Culver City, California. She furthered her culinary education by studying in Italy and is a graduate of Cook The Farm, a full immersion culinary experience in Sicily.

• Women of the South Bay •

Estate Properties International

WHO OPENED A DOOR FOR YOU PROFESSIONALLY THAT MADE A HUGE IMPACT? Bindu Xavier: Twenty years ago, Sandra Sanders of Estate Properties encouraged me to join the business, a decision that has shaped my career and my life. Sandra continues to inspire me as both a successful businesswoman and a devoted mother.

I deeply admire her incredible work ethic, strength and ability to balance family and career with such grace. I am forever grateful for her belief in me and proud to have her as a mentor, inspiration and friend.

310-658-1991, DRE #01818247 Devra Zandell: Early in my real estate career at Shorewood Realtors 22+ years ago, I was fortunate to have exceptional mentorship and management that genuinely supported my growth, helping shape and educate me as a professional (which Estate Properties offers as well). I also made one of the best investments of my career by hiring a real estate coach. That guidance transformed the way I serve my clients, reinforcing the importance of truly listening, anticipating their needs and providing exceptional service every step of the way.

310-408-4247, DRE #01418217 Jennifer Williamson: At age 24, I had the incredible opportunity to work alongside my mom, Kim Williamson, one of the best brokers in Los Angeles, and carry on the legacy she had built. She taught me honesty and integrity, but more importantly demonstrated what it means to truly serve people. I watched her go above and beyond for clients, helping with whatever was needed to make one of life’s biggest transitions a positive, meaningful experience. Everything I know, I learned from her.

310-801-0614, DRE #01421590 WHAT CAN WE EACH DO TO SUPPORT OTHER WOMEN IN BUSINESS? Agnes Rosiak: Supporting other women in business starts with choosing collaboration over competition. I believe in sharing opportunities, making introductions, recommending womenowned businesses, mentoring when possible and celebrating each other’s successes. In real estate, relationships are everything, and a strong network creates room for everyone to grow.

Highlights

• Serious Success, Real Fun • In-house Legal/Marketing • Advanced Technology Solutions • Elite Training, Ultimate Support We also need to listen, encourage confidence and speak up when another woman deserves a seat at the table. When women support women, entire communities become stronger, and opportunities expand.

310-384-2399, DRE #01866451 SPEAK ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF COMMUNITY AND HOW IT’S IMPACTED YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY. Sandy Bruce: Building new relationships and nurturing the longstanding ones are so important in our profession. Successfully helping my clients cannot be done all alone; I rely on my connections to assist in providing the resources and information my clients need in their homeownership journey. Constant support of my fellow agents and our real estate community helps us all become better able to take care of our clients.

310-988-8211, DRE #01968444 Sylvette Mascioni: Community has shaped so much of my journey in real estate. I believe the best relationships are built by being a resource first: showing up, sharing knowledge, making connections and helping however I can. Real estate may be what I do, but serving people is the heart behind it. That mindset has created relationships that extend far beyond a transaction and has shaped both the business we’ve built and the way we continue to grow.

310-621-0072, DRE #02094342 WHAT LED YOU TO A CAREER IN THE REAL ESTATE INDUSTRY? Vivian-Tamayo Gandara: Real estate is woven into my earliest memories. Growing up, I watched my dad renovate and build homes from the ground up, and I learned that a home is more than walls. It’s where life unfolds, families grow and memories are made.

After nearly 20 years working as a television news anchor and reporter, I brought my storytelling, listening and negotiation skills into real estate. Today, I help clients find the right home for their next chapter. And I love that these stories all have happy endings.

818-720-3035, DRE #02235491

23740 HAWTHORNE BLVD., 2ND FLOOR, TORRANCE 310-378-9889 | ESTATEPROPERTIES.COM | @EPLAHOMES | DRE #01879720

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PHOTOGRAPHED BY FABIEN & LAURA CASTRO AT 1204 THE STRAND, MANHATTAN BEACH, LISTED BY MICHAEL PENNINGS, DRE #00990231

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ounded in 1984 by the Sanders Family, Estate Properties International is a member of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World®, a global network of independent luxury brokerages. The South Bay firm boasts $123 billion in total sales volume from over 200,000 transactions and supports local businesses, schools, community organizations and children’s programs, including Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.

L to R: Vivian-Tamayo Gandara, Bindu Xavier, Sylvette Mascioni, Devra Zandell, Agnes Rosiak, Sandy Bruce, Jennifer Williamson

• Women of the South Bay •

Estate Properties International

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE A CAREER IN REAL ESTATE? Gayle Probst: I jumped into real estate because I wanted to do good for others, and I wanted a job where I could make a difference. Helping people with the most important financial and emotional decision perhaps of their life has been wonderful, but not without stumbling blocks. In almost 1,000 transactions, I have learned that we all need support. I was just told by a seller that I am their “security blanket.” What a great compliment!

310-977-9711, DRE #01137236 Kelly Evans: Watching my single mother build a successful career in real estate in the 1970s and ’80s profoundly influenced my decision to follow in her footsteps. Times were different then, but she made it work—ultimately earning real estate licenses in three states: Pennsylvania, Florida and California. Her determination and “can-do” spirit became part of my own foundation and continue to inspire me today.

310–613–2465, DRE #01070091 Jaime Eckerle Collins: Real estate is more than a career to me; it’s part of my family’s story. As a third-generation Realtor® licensed for 27 years, I feel especially grateful to have raised my children in the South Bay and to serve the community I truly love. My approach is simple: Put my clients first, build genuine relationships and help people put down roots in a community I’m proud to call home.

310-741-7242, DRE #01253085 Clara Baum: I love serving people through one of life’s biggest decisions, and I’ve made that decision myself. We own and manage our own real estate portfolio, so I know how it feels from the client’s chair—a perspective that put me in the top 5% of agents at my company. The South Bay isn’t just my market; it’s my home.

There’s no greater honor than being trusted and being of service.

310-447-1537, DRE #02188396 SPEAK ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF COMMUNITY. Cindy Kawata: Community has been at the heart of my 25-year real estate journey. My business has grown through relationships, referrals and the trust of people who have welcomed me into their

Highlights

• In-house Legal Department • Advanced Technology Solutions • In-house Marketing Department • Comprehensive Training & Support lives. I believe true success is about more than transactions. It is about being present, giving back, helping others and building lasting connections. The relationships I’ve built over the years and the clients who have become like my family make this career so meaningful to me.

310-971-3282, DRE #01376829 Melissa McLean Sidell: My business has grown through relationships, referrals and staying deeply connected to the communities I serve. After more than 25 years in real estate, I remain active by combining local market knowledge, strong negotiation skills, thoughtful strategy and personal service. I believe consistency matters in business and in life. Showing up, staying informed and taking care of people keeps relationships strong and business moving forward.

310-291-5273, DRE #01300556 WHAT BELIEF HAVE YOU COMPLETELY CHANGED YOUR MIND ABOUT? Tiffany Kawata: Early in my career, I thought success was defined by the number of homes I sold. After 12 years in real estate, I have learned that true success comes from earning my clients’ trust, understanding their needs, advocating for them and being there long after closing. Repeat clients and referrals have shown me that this business is ultimately built on lasting relationships and genuine care.

310-525-9035, DRE #01969311 WHAT STRATEGIES ARE EFFECTIVE IN GROWING YOUR BUSINESS? Becky Davidson: The biggest strategy has been becoming deeply connected to the community I serve. I’ve focused on being known as a true local expert by building genuine relationships with neighbors, local businesses and past clients. Referrals and repeat business have been key. Most importantly, I’ve learned that consistency matters—showing up, providing value and staying connected year after year.

310-920-9287, DRE #01894087

23740 HAWTHORNE BLVD., 2ND FLOOR, TORRANCE 310-378-9889 | ESTATEPROPERTIES.COM | @EPLAHOMES | DRE #01879720

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amily-owned by the Sanders family since 1984, Estate Properties International is a full-service real estate brokerage built on trusted relationships and service. More than 500 real estate professionals combine neighborhood knowledge with global connections through Leading Real Estate Companies of the World®. The firm supports businesses, schools and local organizations, including Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.

L to R: Jaime Eckerle Collins, Melissa McLean Sidell, Clara Baum, Tiffany Kawata, Kelly Evans, Becky Davidson, Cindy Kawata Seated: Gayle Probst

• Women of the South Bay •

Beach Life Fitness Boutique

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE A FITNESS CAREER? My mission has always been combining science, movement and education to help women thrive through every stage of life. I discovered my passion for coaching and pursued it through a degree in kinesiology and graduate studies focused on women’s fitness, especially pre- and postnatal health. That drive led me to teach multi-format fitness classes internationally, take roles as a group fitness director, personal trainer, master trainer and fitness presenter/ writer, and ultimately establish my own fitness studio.

WHAT MAKES BEACH LIFE FITNESS BOUTIQUE UNIQUE? Beach Life Fitness Boutique was created to support women through every stage of life—from girls to grandmothers. Whether a client is a teen athlete, expecting her first baby, recovering postpartum, navigating menopause, undergoing cancer treatment or recovery, or simply wanting to stay active as she ages, we provide expert, evidence- based fitness in a welcoming and supportive environment.

HOW DOES YOUR PHILOSOPHY SHAPE THE WAY YOU CARE FOR CLIENTS? We believe fitness is about much more than exercise. It’s about helping women move better, feel stronger, reduce pain and improve their overall quality of life. Every program is designed to meet women where they are and give them the confidence to keep moving through every season of life.

HOW HAS THE COMMUNITY SHAPED YOUR JOURNEY? The South Bay has been home to my family for nearly 30 years, and it’s where I’ve had the privilege of building both my family and my career. As a proud mom of three Redondo Union High School graduates—one of whom now serves as a South Bay ocean lifeguard—I’ve been honored to help women through some of life’s most important milestones while creating a strong, healthy community. My husband and I are also proud to own Beach Life Fitness Boutique alongside our neighboring restaurant, LoZio Osteria, where our shared passion is to nourish our community by helping people live well, stay active and enjoy great food!

Highlights

• Women’s Health • Fitness Classes & Pilates • Private Training • Wellness Services HOW DO YOU ENSURE YOUR TEAM PROVIDES SUCH SPECIALIZED CARE? Continuing education is one of our core values. Every instructor is trained and mentored in women’s health and medical fitness, including pregnancy and postpartum exercise, menopause and movement, cancer and exercise, functional movement and corrective exercise, ensuring every client receives knowledgeable, compassionate and individualized care.

WHAT TRENDS IN THE FITNESS INDUSTRY EXCITE YOU MOST? I’m encouraged to see more attention being given to women’s health, including strength training during menopause, pregnancy and postpartum fitness, cancer recovery and longevity. These are areas we’ve championed for years, and it’s exciting to see the industry embracing a more personalized, evidence-based approach to women’s wellness.

WHAT ROLE HAS COMMUNITY PLAYED IN THE SUCCESS OF YOUR BUSINESS? Community has always been at the heart of everything I do. I’m proud to serve as a Redondo Rotarian and have spent many years volunteering with the Redondo Beach PTA as chair of the Green Committee and as a LiveWell docent. Being named Redondo Beach PTA Volunteer of the Year in 2017 and supporting events like the Redondo Super Bowl 10K are reminders that investing in the health and well-being of our community is just as important to me as helping women thrive inside the studio.

WHAT DO YOU HOPE PEOPLE WILL SAY ABOUT BEACH LIFE FITNESS BOUTIQUE YEARS FROM NOW? I hope they’ll say we created a place where women felt seen, supported and empowered through every stage of life. If our legacy is healthier women, stronger families and a community that continues to value movement, wellness and connection, I’ll consider that our greatest success.

312 S. CATALINA AVE., REDONDO BEACH | 310-890-7216 | BEACHLIFEFITNESSBOUTIQUE.COM | @BEACHLIFEFITNESSBOUTIQUE

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each Life Fitness Boutique is a multi-modality fitness studio offering classes, personal training, nutrition counseling, recovery services and beauty treatments. For more than three decades, owner Danielle Spangler has dedicated her career to helping people move better and live healthier lives. With fitness certifications and experience as a presenter and content creator, she has educated clients and fitness professionals nationwide. Danielle launched Beach Life Fitness Boutique in 2019.

• Women of the South Bay •

Denise Richards

CEO/President, dRichards Interiors, Inc.

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE POTENTIAL CLIENTS TO KNOW ABOUT YOUR FIRM? Our mission statement is to create beautiful environments and have happy clients. From contemporary to traditional, modern to transitional, our design team will produce the rooms of your dreams—even if those spaces are outdoors and halfway around the world. At dRichards Interiors, we are experts in finding design motifs to match individual styles. We have constantly exceeded the expectations of our clients, coast to coast and internationally.

Our team is not afraid of a challenge and is never held back by the confines of a zip code.

WHAT ARE THE TOP TRAITS THAT MAKE A GREAT BUSINESS LEADER? Determination, stamina and guiding the next generation of designers.

WHAT’S THE MOST UNCONVENTIONAL PIECE OF BUSINESS ADVICE YOU’VE EVER RECEIVED? “No is the beginning of negotiations.” I have applied this philosophy with many potential clients. It gives me a chance to practice “determination.”

WHO OPENED A DOOR FOR YOU PROFESSIONALLY THAT MADE A HUGE IMPACT? WHOSE DOOR ARE YOU OPENING NOW? A family friend when I was very young. I have successfully mentored many young people who have become interior designers themselves.

WHAT CAN WE EACH DO TO SUPPORT OTHER WOMEN IN BUSINESS? More than we are right now. Women have a responsibility to do all we can to excel. We must recognize the doors that are open to us and carefully choose the right ones to walk through.

ANY WORDS OF ADVICE FOR WOMEN JUST STARTING OUT IN THIS INDUSTRY? You are beginning a challenging journey filled with rewards and hard roads. Never give up!

Highlights

• Residential Design • Hospitality Design • Bespoke Furniture Design • Bespoke Flooring Creations WHAT BELIEF HAVE YOU COMPLETELY CHANGED YOUR MIND ABOUT? After a while, early in my career, I believed that there were no new and exciting creations. I quickly learned that I was so wrong. There is no end to the creative mind, unless we see one.

HOW DOES AUTHENTICITY PLAY INTO YOUR BUSINESS MODEL? Staying true to myself and my art is the difference between being real or inconsequential.

WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT PASSION PROJECT? All of my projects excite me.

WHEN PEOPLE TELL THE STORY OF YOUR BUSINESS YEARS FROM NOW, WHAT DO YOU HOPE THEY’LL SAY? “She did great work but was never truly satisfied. Her best work is still ahead of her.”

WHAT KEEPS YOU GOING ON DIFFICULT DAYS? Passion for what I do and the people with whom I work.

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU STAND OUT IN YOUR MARKET? Longevity. I am always looking to be inspired, and I am never disappointed. I am an encyclopedia of knowledge and experiences in my field and in life. I want to know everything about what I do and what I have yet to learn.

WHAT ARE THE LATEST TRENDS IN YOUR INDUSTRY THAT YOU’RE LOVING? Inspirational architecture is more creative than ever before.

DESCRIBE YOUR DREAM CLIENT. Someone who sees and shares my vision for them and for their project. Someone who is open to the unique and the artful.

1600 N. PACIFIC COAST HWY. #846, MANHATTAN BEACH | 310-333-0794 | DRICHARDSINTERIORS.COM

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Richards Interiors, a Southern California interior design firm founded by designer Denise Richards in 1976, specializes in high-end luxury interiors—both commercial and residential. Denise is best known for her work in architectural design, which includes the selection and specification of finish materials and details, as well as space plans and the reconfiguration of specific areas to create a harmonious environment.

• Women of the South Bay •

Elizabeth Alligood

Founder, Elizabeth Alligood & Associates, Brokered by First Team

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU STAND OUT IN YOUR MARKET? I have a unique background in lending, insurance and highimpact marketing to help clients navigate complex moves across both California and Oregon. Beyond the numbers, I lead with honesty, integrity and a heart for advocacy, making sure every transaction is driven by real trust, personal attention and purpose.

I also excel at negotiations.

HOW DO YOU GROW YOUR BUSINESS? Building meaningful relationships and providing an unmatched level of care and service are the true foundations of my business.

When you show up with absolute transparency and treat clients like family, long-term trust and organic growth naturally follow.

HOW CAN WE SUPPORT OTHER WOMEN IN BUSINESS? Collaborate, intentionally buy from and refer each other business, provide honest feedback, share our resources and knowledge, and advocate for inclusion and opportunities.

WHEN PEOPLE TELL THE STORY OF YOUR BUSINESS YEARS FROM NOW, WHAT DO YOU HOPE THEY’LL SAY? I hope they say, “Her legacy changed lives far beyond real estate,” because my goal is to help others in all walks of life and make a positive impact in this world.

WHAT DOES “LOCAL” MEAN TO YOU? Being local to the South Bay isn’t just about selling properties here.

It’s about being actively invested in the culture and the people. It means pouring back into our community through local advocacy, supporting neighborhood businesses, and building relationships where your neighbors become friends and family and your community feels like home.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU LIVED IN THE SOUTH BAY? My husband, Matt, lived in Hermosa Beach in his 20s, and I’ve worked in the South Bay for nearly a decade. We decided that we wanted to buy our first home here, which we did in 2022. We absolutely love being a part of the community.

My Local List

Hidden Gem: North Redondo Farmers Market Best Annual Event: BeachLife Festival Favorite Resort: Terranea Pet Care: South Park Doggie Adventureland WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO BE DUAL LICENSED IN OREGON AND CALIFORNIA? A lot of people in Oregon were reaching out to have me represent them, and I kept referring them to other Realtors. I got my license in Oregon to bridge that gap so clients don’t have to restart the trust-building process when making a major life transition. I act as a bridge between both markets, providing strategic, end-to-end guidance so their move is seamless. Also, as my parents are getting older, the transition of caring for my disabled sister is naturally shifting from them to me, so this allows me to spend more time with them.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR FAMILY. I was adopted from Vietnam at the age of 4½ into an amazing family that taught me how to ride horses, grow our own food and work hard for everything in life. My sister, Kaitlinh, is disabled and needed specialized support, so my mom sold her restaurant franchises and my dad transitioned his career from the VA so Kaitlinh could attend the Oregon School for the Deaf. My parents sacrificed so much to give us every opportunity, and their selflessness and love for their family shaped the values, work ethic and heart I bring to everything I do today.

WHAT ARE YOUR PASSION PROJECTS? Raising donations for Starts With One Today, the rescue I volunteer with and foster through. They are on the streets every day rescuing and providing food, resources and supplies to the families and animals that live there. I also hold a profound commitment to our armed service members and veterans. My dad was in the 173rd Airborne Brigade (SEP) during the Vietnam War and received a Purple Heart. I also champion local small mom-and-pop businesses so they can continue their legacies for many years.

Disclaimer: Elizabeth Alligood & Associates is brokered by First Team Real Estate in California and brokered by Realty First (LIC:201253127) in Oregon and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity Laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational and promotional purposes only.

503-559-8884 | ELIZABETHALLIGOODASSOCIATES.COM | @ELIZABETHALLIGOODASSOCIATES | DRE #02023166

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lizabeth Alligood brings more than a decade of industry experience to clients across California and Oregon. She graduated from the University of Oregon and attended Western Oregon University for graduate school. Elizabeth has experience working in the insurance industry, advertising, marketing, the automotive industry, the mortgage industry and as a sushi chef. She got her real estate license in 2016 and started Elizabeth Alligood & Associates in 2022.

• Women of the South Bay •

Strand Hill | Forbes Global Properties

WHAT DOES LOCAL MEAN TO YOU? Denise Mazzotta: As a longtime South Bay real estate agent, I believe being truly local makes all the difference. Years of building relationships with clients and agents across multiple brokerages provide valuable insight beyond the data, including the context behind negotiations and current market activity. That knowledge helps me price listings strategically, craft stronger offers and navigate negotiations with flexibility. My longtime tagline says it best: “I work hard for my clients.” I strive to live up to it every day.

310-418-1462, DRE #01302091 WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE REAL ESTATE? Alex Gauss: My mother, Joan Zirkel, was a Realtor in Palos Verdes, so I grew up going to open houses and learning about her business. I always wanted a career in real estate and was a real estate attorney for many years. I later pivoted to become a Realtor because I wanted to negotiate deals and help clients throughout the entire process. My mom worked until she was almost 90 years old doing the job she loved, and I hope to do the same!

310-418-0869, DRE #01426014 Lisa Lerner: Real estate felt like a natural evolution after 20 years in interior design. I’ve always loved homes, not just how they look but how people live in them, and the potential that may be hard to see at first glance. My advice for any woman starting a new chapter: Don’t discount what you already bring to the table. Your career, experiences, skills and relationships are your differentiators.

Stay willing to learn, surround yourself with people you respect and build a path that feels uniquely your own.

323-314-4481, DRE #02434969 WHAT’S THE MOST UNCONVENTIONAL BUSINESS ADVICE YOU HAVE RECEIVED? Lizabeth Walker: Someone said something to me a long time ago about the benefits of being out of your comfort zone, and I have found that to be great advice! You grow as a person and professionally when you take risks … or in the case of real estate, being persuasive—not pushy, but persuasive—about a great home for sale. Clients need the reassurance of a Realtor who doesn’t push but persuades them to either buy or sell.

310-880-8453, DRE #00680977 SPEAK ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF COMMUNITY. Joanna Recinos: Community is at the heart of my 20-year real

Highlights

• Locally Owned & Globally Connected • Expert Analysis & Pricing • Strategic Market Positioning • Personalized Client Service estate journey. I’ve always believed in helping others and giving back. I never imagined the meaningful relationships this career would bring. That trust goes beyond real estate. I'm there for the moments that matter most. Being present, staying involved and genuinely caring for others has been the foundation of my business, and I’m deeply grateful for it.

310-283-4353, DRE #01826417 WHAT REAL ESTATE TRENDS ARE YOU LOVING? Peggy Johnston: Technology has had a huge impact on our industry. I love how informed the buying and selling public has become about real estate. Communication and education have become more collaborative—a positive development. The dynamics and intricacies of buying and selling real estate are still complex, but the transparency our industry now promotes has improved all aspects of what is often the most expensive transaction people experience.

310-779-8755, DRE #01137455 Nicole Peters: I love that my clients prioritize lifestyle over speculation. Families aren’t just buying a house; they’re buying into a community, a Sunday morning routine and a Little League. Our lifestyle-driven coastal cities are outperforming more speculative L.A. submarkets as buyers prioritize top school districts and longterm value over quick flips. Remote work continues to expand our buyer pool; professionals prefer Pacific views, outdoor entertaining space, and proximity to the sand over a long commute.

310-200-2234, DRE #01906239 WHAT STRATEGIES ARE MOST EFFECTIVE IN GROWING YOUR BUSINESS? Cindy Shearin: I LOVE what I do! Over my three decades as a top-producing luxury agent, I’ve found that growing locally comes down to genuine relationships that drive a powerful repeat and referral network. My foundation is uncompromising professionalism and high-touch service. My eye for detail-oriented design and development sets me apart. I want to help you find your dream home and make it a reality. When clients become friends, it never truly feels like work.

310-200-8318, DRE #00925580

1141 HIGHLAND AVE., 2ND FLOOR, MANHATTAN BEACH | 310-545-0707 | STRANDHILL.COM | @STRANDHILLPROPERTIES

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trand Hill | Forbes Global Properties is a locally owned, independent real estate brokerage with more than $8 billion in sales volume since 2014. The Strand Hill agents featured here bring years of combined experience and expertise to South Bay real estate.

L to R: Lisa Lerner, Peggy Johnston, Lizabeth Walker, Joanna Recinos, Nicole Peters, Alex Gauss, Denise Mazzotta, Cindy Shearin

• Women of the South Bay •

Robin Smith Realtor®, Compass

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ealtor® Robin Smith helps clients buy, sell and lease properties with the support of Compass, a firm she joined in 2020. She spent 15 years working as a dental hygienist before pivoting to the real estate industry 12 years ago.

WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT PASSION PROJECT? RJ Smith Development, which I’ve been building alongside my husband for the past two years. Our spec homes offer a unique synthesis: the immediacy of a move-inready home with all the benefits you’d expect from one of our custom builds.

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU STAND OUT IN YOUR MARKET? I don’t just sell real estate; I help build it. Through RJ Smith Construction and RJ Smith Development, I’m involved in projects from the ground up: sourcing lots, understanding construction costs and timelines, and seeing firsthand what makes a home actually work for the way people live.

That perspective gives my clients a real advantage, whether they’re buying, selling or building. I can speak to a property’s potential, not just its current condition.

It’s also reflected in the results: I’ve been on the RealTrends Top 1,000 list for several years running, and I was recently ranked #4 in Hermosa Beach in the 2026 RealTrends Verified City Rankings.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR FAMILY. This year, I officially have a high schooler. When people say time flies, they’re not exaggerating. When I'm not working with clients or helping run RJ Smith Co., you’ll find me on the sidelines for my boys—whether that’s the soccer field, the baseball field or just being their biggest cheerleader!

901 MANHATTAN BEACH BLVD., MANHATTAN BEACH | 213-447-2668 | @ROBINSMITHTEAM | DRE #01989112

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WHAT KEEPS YOU GOING ON DIFFICULT DAYS? When things feel like too much, family and friends pull me back to center. This year I’ve also been leaning into Thrive South Bay, founded by Corry Matthews and Jen Mentesana. It’s a community of women focused on realigning with what matters most: health, purpose and passion, with real intention behind it. Being surrounded by other women who are also building, growing and evolving has been grounding in a way I didn’t expect.

• Women of the South Bay •

Wendy Thorlakson Svehlak Co-Owner, The Aesthetics Bar

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he Aesthetics Bar is a medical spa that offers a “less is more” approach to clients’ needs. Wendy Thorlakson Svehlak is a former film producer and entrepreneur. She took time off to raise her daughter, then started working alongside her husband, Beverly Hills plastic surgeon Steven Svehlak, MD, who also owns Sunset Cosmetic Surgery. The Aesthetics Bar offers a complete medical grade skin care line, along with services such as Botox, dermal fillers, microneedling, stem cell and peptide therapy including GLP-1s.

WHEN DID YOU START YOUR BUSINESS? We built The Aesthetics Bar during COVID-19 and have been in business for five years. We wanted to open a local spa after hearing friends complain about not wanting to leave the South Bay bubble for doctor-administered Botox services. It took a few years to develop and refine the concept, but Manhattan Marketplace provided all the conveniences our clients were looking for. We made it pretty and fun with plenty of free parking WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT PASSION PROJECT? I am currently developing an “I’ll Have What She’s Having” wellness program. I am working very closely with Dr. Steve and stem cell expert Stacy Wright, RN, to create individual wellness packages. The program is for people who want to feel great from the inside out. As we age, our natural peptide production slows and we may not feel our best.

The program will be tailored to individual needs, such as aesthetics, hair restoration, skin renewal, weight health and overall well-being.

PHOTOGRAPHED BY SHANE O’DONNELL

WHAT KEEPS YOU GOING ON DIFFICULT DAYS? Sometimes we have patients who come in deflated and near tears. Within an hour, our experts make a huge difference.

People hug us and thank us for changing their life. The changes may be small, but they are always exactly what the patient wants, which boosts their confidence. When they look amazing, they feel amazing! Best days ever!

HOW LONG HAVE YOU LIVED IN THE SOUTH BAY? I am a native California girl. I moved to Hermosa Beach in my early 20s and then lived in Manhattan Beach in my 30s.

Dr. Steve and I have a teenage daughter, Genevieve, and we currently live in Playa del Rey. I have really covered all areas of the South Bay. I LOVE them all!

1590 ROSECRANS AVE., SUITE A, MANHATTAN BEACH | 424-675-4102 | THEAESTHETICSBAR.COM | @THEAESTHETICSBARMB

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• Women of the South Bay •

Madelyne Salo, DDS

Owner/Cosmetic Dentist, Salo Manhattan Beach

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alo Manhattan Beach is a family‑owned dental practice bringing over 30 years of experience to its personalized, patient-centered care. Salo offers services such as general, cosmetic and implant dentistry, oral surgery, endodontics, prosthodontics, periodontics, pediatrics and orthodontics. Owner Madelyne Salo, DDS, leads a second practice, Salo & Salo in Los Angeles, and is on the faculty at NYU College of Dentistry.

WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT PASSION PROJECT? Salo Oral Care, a line I co-founded after identifying a gap between the level of care I provide patients in the dental chair and the products available to them at home. As a cosmetic and restorative dentist, I’m incredibly focused on the health, function and longevity of my patients’ smiles, and I wanted everyday oral care to reflect that same standard.

Salo is carried at my office and online at drsalo.com.

WHAT STRATEGIES ARE MOST EFFECTIVE IN GROWING YOUR BUSINESS? To truly immerse ourselves in the community and support the things that matter most to our neighbors. Instead of just marketing to the community, we’ve made it a priority to be part of it. That’s meant joining activities like yoga on the beach, getting involved with our local Rotary Club, and actively supporting local schools, PTAs and sports teams.

We’re also passionate about creating opportunities that bring people together, like hosting dog adoption days or free wellness retreats in our office.

1151 N. SEPULVEDA BLVD., MANHATTAN BEACH 310-376-0482 | SALOMANHATTANBEACH.COM | @DRMADELYNESALO | @SALOMANHATTANBEACH

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PHOTOGRAPHED BY SHANE O’DONNELL

HOW DO AUTHENTICITY AND HOLISTIC PRACTICE PLAY INTO YOUR WORK? Authenticity is at the core of everything I do. Anything I create or recommend has to be something I genuinely believe in and would feel comfortable giving to my own patients and family.

The holistic side comes from looking beyond just the teeth. Oral health is deeply connected to overall wellness, so both in my practice and with Salo Oral Care, I focus on supporting the mouth’s natural biology. That philosophy also carries into my cosmetic work. With veneers and smile transformations, my goal is never to simply make teeth look “perfect.” I want to preserve as much natural tooth structure as possible, respect the patient’s biology and function and create a result that looks like it truly belongs to them.

• Women of the South Bay •

Noelle Isbell

Principal/Owner, Noelle Interiors

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oelle Interiors is a full-service interior design firm specializing in luxury residential interiors and hospitality projects. Owner Noelle Isbell and her team work closely with clients, architects and builders from the earliest concept through construction, furnishings and final installation.

HOW DOES AUTHENTICITY PLAY INTO YOUR BUSINESS MODEL? Authenticity is at the heart of how I design. The best spaces reflect the people who live there and feel as though they evolved naturally from the homeowner—not like a designer came in and placed a stamp on them. I love creating homes that tell clients’ stories and become even more beautiful as life unfolds in them.

WHO OPENED A DOOR FOR YOU PROFESSIONALLY THAT MADE A HUGE IMPACT? The architects in this community have greatly impacted my career. Their trust in bringing me into projects early and giving me a seat at the table helped shape the designer and business owner I am today. In turn, I want the designers who come to work with me to feel strengthened by that same spirit of collaboration—to grow their confidence, sharpen their point of view, and excel alongside me and our team while contributing meaningfully to the work we create together.

PHOTOGRAPHED BY FABIEN & LAURA CASTRO

WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT PASSION PROJECT? I’m designing and building our family home, Noosa Crest, in Manhattan Beach. Creating your own home is every designer’s dream, but for me it’s especially meaningful to design the place where my husband and I will raise our daughter, Olivia, and build memories together.

WHEN PEOPLE TELL THE STORY OF YOUR BUSINESS YEARS FROM NOW, WHAT DO YOU HOPE THEY’LL SAY? I hope they say I worked hard, lifted people up and left a beautiful footprint on a community I love. I feel incredibly fortunate to have grown alongside this community. Seeing spaces continue to be enjoyed years later, whether it’s a family home or a restaurant full of familiar faces, is incredibly rewarding because they became exactly what we all hoped they would be.

815 MANHATTAN AVE., SUITE C, MANHATTAN BEACH 310-985-5085 | NOELLEINTERIORS.COM | SHOPNOELLEINTERIORS.COM | @NOELLEINTERIORS

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• Women of the South Bay •

Sasha Sanjar Fattahi Founder, a.lign

WHO HAS MADE A BIG IMPACT ON YOUR CAREER? My sister, Sahar Sanjar, invited me to join her PR agency, laChambre, which gave me a front-row seat to building a successful business and becoming an entrepreneur myself. My parents, Morgan and Saab Sanjar, are lifelong entrepreneurs who have built beloved South Bay businesses including Yellow Vase, Avenue Italy and Il Posto. Watching them create businesses that became gathering places for the community shaped the way I think about leadership, hospitality and perseverance. And I wouldn’t have taken the leap without the unwavering support of my husband. When opening a studio felt like a daunting idea, he

encouraged me to bet on myself. He believed in this vision from the very beginning and has been my biggest supporter every step of the way.

WHEN PEOPLE TELL THE STORY OF YOUR BUSINESS YEARS FROM NOW, WHAT DO YOU HOPE THEY’LL SAY? I hope they say that a.lign became more than just a Pilates studio— that it became part of the fabric of our community. Of course, I hope we’re known for exceptional instruction, but more importantly I hope we’re remembered for how we made people feel.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE A FITNESS CAREER? Pilates changed the way I viewed movement and what my body was capable of. After practicing for many years, I realized I wanted to create a space where others could experience that same transformation. When I decided to open a.lign, I was thinking about creating something that would be serving our community decades from now. That long-term perspective has shaped nearly every decision we’ve made.

77 MALAGA COVE PLAZA, PALOS VERDES ESTATES | 310-303-2362 | ALIGNPILATES.CO | @A.LIGN_PILATES

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PHOTOGRAPHED BY FABIEN & LAURA CASTRO

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alos Verdes native Sasha Sanjar Fattahi recently opened a.lign, a boutique athletic reformer Pilates studio that blends contemporary movement with the foundational principles of classical Pilates. She has practiced Pilates for more than 15 years. Sasha and her team offer small-group reformer classes, private and duet training, and specialized programming designed for every stage of a client's fitness journey.

• Women of the South Bay •

Rotary Club of Manhattan Beach

Rotary members for 3+ years, L to R, top: Kelly Stroman, Monica Bringleson, Nina Patel, Lisa Hemmat, Wimberly Meyer, Rita Crabtree-Kampe, Nancy Vrankovic, Patricia Panucci Bottom: Shannon Ryan, Sue Vogl, Barbara Matles, Kathleen Terry, Loli Ramezani, Sandesha Singh

T PHOTOGRAPHED BY FABIEN & LAURA CASTRO

he Rotary Club of Manhattan Beach, chartered in 1950, has brought together generations of local leaders who share a commitment to "Service Above Self." Through hands-on service, charitable giving and partnerships, Rotary members support local families, youth and education; recognize those who serve the community; and help address global humanitarian needs around the world. Rotary creates lasting friendships and connections among members who want to make a meaningful difference and have fun doing it.

WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT PASSION PROJECT? Our passion project is our community—both at home and around the world. Last year, Manhattan Beach Rotary supported 35 service projects and 12 programs, contributing nearly $192,000 to causes ranging from local youth and scholarships to hunger relief, education and clean water initiatives around the world. What makes it meaningful is that our members don’t simply write checks; we roll up our sleeves and serve.

HOW CAN WE SUPPORT OTHER WOMEN IN BUSINESS? Invite women into the rooms where relationships, ideas and

opportunities are created—and then make sure their voices are heard. More than 35 women now represent 31% of Manhattan Beach Rotary’s membership, bringing their leadership, professional experience and perspectives to every area of our club. As that number continues to grow, so does the strength of our organization and our impact.

SPEAK ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF COMMUNITY. Community is at the heart of Manhattan Beach Rotary. Our members bring different professions, experiences and perspectives to the table, but we’re united by a desire to make our community stronger—from supporting students and teachers to helping veterans, seniors and families in need. Those shared experiences create genuine friendships and connections among the people doing the work.

HOW DOES ROTARY MIX SERVICE AND FRIENDSHIP? Our members accomplished 35 service projects last year, but we also came together for 36 social events—from book clubs and outdoor activities to dinners and wine gatherings. Rotary is a place to make a difference, build meaningful friendships and have a lot of fun along the way.

ROTARY5280.ORG | @MANHATTANBEACHROTARY

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• Women of the South Bay •

Meagan Marcuccilli, MD, MPH, MSCP Owner, Meagan Marcuccilli, MD, Inc.

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fter working for nine years as medical director for One Medical at SpaceX, Meagan Marcuccilli, MD, trained in hormone replacement therapy and founded her own practice in 2024. Through hour-long telehealth sessions, she supports women through midlife transitions, specializing in hormone replacement, sleep restoration, body composition management and mental wellness.

HOW DOES AUTHENTICITY PLAY INTO YOUR BUSINESS MODEL? Being my authentic self and having a great bedside manner is imperative in my practice. Many of my patients come to me having been dismissed by their doctors and told their symptoms are just part of aging. Being a sympathetic listener and validating each patient’s experience is key to building a strong doctor-patient relationship and creating trust.

WHAT KEEPS YOU GOING ON DIFFICULT DAYS? Running a medical practice independently has its hard days. What keeps me going is the positive impact I make in my patients’ lives. Hearing them tell me they feel like themselves again, that they’re enjoying life, sleeping through the night and have the energy to get through their day—that’s what sustains me on the difficult days.

WHAT STRATEGIES HAVE YOU FOUND MOST EFFECTIVE IN GROWING YOUR BUSINESS? Word of mouth and patient referrals have been powerful tools for growing my practice. I’ve also found small-group Q&A sessions to be valuable, along with local advertising a few times a year to reach new faces and remind others of my practice.

310-955-5826 | MEAGANMD.COM | @DR.MEAGAN_MD

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PHOTOGRAPHED BY FABIEN & LAURA CASTRO

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE A CAREER IN YOUR FIELD? When I started experiencing perimenopause symptoms in my early 40s, I couldn’t find the medical help I needed here in the South Bay. That gap in care inspired me to train in hormone replacement therapy and start my own patientcentered practice, with hour-long visits dedicated to each woman’s specific needs. I work with my patients to meet them where they are, making sure they feel heard and their needs are addressed.

• Women of the South Bay •

Bryanne DeGoede

Founder & Managing Partner, BLND Public Relations

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LND Public Relations is a full-service communications agency specializing in public relations, social media, influencer marketing and experiential events. Managing partner Bryanne DeGoede founded the firm in 2014 and brings more than 20 years of industry experience.

HOW DOES AUTHENTICITY PLAY INTO YOUR BUSINESS MODEL? I loathe networking. I love relationships. There’s a huge difference. PR is a relationship business, and the best opportunities in my career have come from genuinely knowing people, actually liking them and staying connected long after either of us needed something from the other. Clients feel the difference between someone building a relationship and someone building a contact list.

WHAT BELIEF HAVE YOU COMPLETELY CHANGED YOUR MIND ABOUT? Early in my career, I had an idea of what an agency owner was supposed to look like—how she dressed, how she spoke, how she led—and I spent a lot of time modeling myself after the person I thought I needed to become. But as BLND grew and I got older, I realized I wasn't becoming anyone. I was becoming more myself. The more I’ve leaned into who I actually am—the ways I lead and communicate, the things I care about—the more I’ve found my people and my people have found me. I've learned that being unapologetically yourself attracts the right people into your life.

PHOTOGRAPHED BY FABIEN & LAURA CASTRO

WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT PASSION PROJECT? I recently decided to put my money where my mouth is and finally get in front of the camera like I’ve pushed my clients to do for years. I’m now creating content for BLND, and it’s a lot of work but I’ve fallen in love with it. Putting more of yourself out there helps the right people find you.

WHAT DOES SUCCESS LOOK LIKE? When I started BLND, success was bigger clients, more revenue, a bigger team, more recognition. I still want to build something wildly successful, but now my definition of success is having a team I genuinely love working with, doing work I’m proud of, being present for my family and having the freedom to actually enjoy the life I’ve worked so hard to build. I don’t want to build a successful business at the expense of a successful life.

HERMOSA BEACH | BLNDPR.COM | @BLNDPR | @BRYANNEDEGOEDE

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• Women of the South Bay •

Tania Birker

Director of Booking, VOX DJs

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU STAND OUT IN YOUR MARKET? I am a woman of color in a male-dominated industry. I lead with love, empathy, compassion, experience, kindness, creativity, style, passion and power.

WHEN PEOPLE TELL THE STORY OF YOUR BUSINESS YEARS FROM NOW, WHAT DO YOU HOPE THEY’LL SAY? When people tell a story of VOX DJs years from now, I hope they

talk about the unforgettable memories we helped them create through curated music, human connection, soul-enriching experiences and professionalism. I hope they remember the passion each team member exuded.

WHAT CAN WE EACH DO TO SUPPORT OTHER WOMEN IN BUSINESS? The best way we can support other women in business is by listening to their stories, learning about their experiences and promoting their business by sharing it with others. Show up for other women by resharing their business to your network and attending events they are part of.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE A CAREER IN YOUR FIELD? WORDS OF ADVICE FOR OTHER WOMEN? Being able to design shared experiences for people is what inspires me most. Creating space for a community to connect is what I am most passionate about. My advice for any woman just starting out in this industry is to always be her most authentic self.

2909 OREGON COURT, SUITE B-2, TORRANCE | 310-372-2222 | VOXDJS.COM | @VOXDJS

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OX DJs is an entertainment and event company that provides customized experiences through DJ/MC services, lighting and A/V, photo booths, live music, auctioneers and production elements. Tania Birker, director of booking, joined the company in 2018 and has been producing events for over 19 years. She studied architecture in high school and went on to study interior design at the Art Institute of California. During this time, she curated events, working with musicians and artists in major cities nationwide to produce multimedia festivals featuring 80+ artists with 1,500+ attendees.

• Women of the South Bay •

Iman Hobbs Browne Owner, Graze Craze Redondo Beach

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raze Craze helps clients celebrate gatherings, gifting and everyday moments with elevated charcuterie boards and boxes artfully arranged with meats, cheeses, fruits and veggies, housemade dips and baked goods. Iman Hobbs Browne opened Graze Craze Redondo Beach in May—the first Los Angeles location of the international brand. She is a former TV journalist and talent acquisition executive.

WHAT ARE THE LATEST TRENDS IN YOUR INDUSTRY THAT YOU’RE LOVING? I absolutely love that charcuterie has become part of the mobile cart scene. It has been so much fun showing up to events with our Graze Craze “Char-cutie Cart” and interacting with people over small bites of delicious food.

I’m also excited that our charcuterie-making classes are becoming more popular, as folks realize that charcuterie is so much more than just meat and cheese. These classes demonstrate that charcuterie can be a fun and creative experience. And it’s OK to play with your food!

PHOTOGRAPHED BY FABIEN & LAURA CASTRO

HOW DOES AUTHENTICITY PLAY INTO YOUR BUSINESS MODEL? Graze Craze is a service-oriented business that relies on the personal connections we make with our customers.

We invite people to “Celebrate Everything” with elevated charcuterie that’s beautiful, delicious, convenient and accessible. If we provide an authentic, memorable experience for a customer, that person is more likely to return to us and even refer a friend or family member.

We were recognized by BusinessRate as the #1 charcuterie caterer in Redondo Beach two months after we opened—an award based solely on organic 5-star customer reviews on Google. That meant the world to me as a new business owner because it shows that we are connecting with our customers in a meaningful way.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR TEAM. I am blessed to have a small but mighty team of four grazologists who have been with me since day one. Each member is kind, creative and genuinely cares about the quality of their creations. I love seeing the pride they take in handing their boards and boxes to customers—who always comment on the beauty and presentation of the food.

629 N. PACIFIC COAST HWY., REDONDO BEACH 310-399-9090 | GRAZECRAZE.COM/REDONDO-BEACH-CA | @GRAZECRAZE_REDONDO_BEACH | @GRAZECRAZERB

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• Women of the South Bay •

Paige Negrete

Founder & Owner, Cartwheelin’ Cuties®

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artwheelin’ Cuties® offers small-group studio classes, private and semi-private instruction, mobile gymnastics programs, school enrichment, adaptive gymnastics, camps, clinics and special events for children of all ages and abilities. Paige Negrete founded the business in 2020 as South Bay Sprouts, initially taking mobile gymnastics instruction directly to families throughout the community. Since then, Cartwheelin’ Cuties® has grown to include a vibrant Redondo Beach studio and programs offered through schools, community partners, and parks and recreation departments.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR FAMILY AND TEAM. We are over the moon to be welcoming our first baby, a little boy, this December! The journey toward motherhood has deepened both my purpose and my vision for Cartwheelin’ Cuties®. This season is also creating space for my incredible team to step into greater leadership and help shape the next chapter of the community we are building together.

HOW DO YOU STAND OUT IN YOUR MARKET? Our playful, small-batch approach allows every child to receive meaningful attention, encouragement and instruction tailored to who they are. We take gymnastics seriously without taking the joy out of it, creating a community where children of all abilities can feel safe, celebrated and wonderfully themselves while they move, grow and belong.

We give them room to discover just how capable they are, one brave try and celebrated cartwheel at a time.

L to R: Eden T., Tiffani W., Paige Negrete, Bryn A., Vigga V.

WHEN PEOPLE TELL THE STORY OF YOUR BUSINESS, WHAT DO YOU HOPE THEY’LL SAY? I hope they’ll say Cartwheelin’ Cuties® changed the way their family experienced children’s movement and showed them that high-quality instruction can also be personal, inclusive and full of heart. Most of all, I hope generations of families remember it as a community where they felt known and supported.

1603 AVIATION BLVD., SUITE 4–6, REDONDO BEACH | 310-683-0724 | CARTWHEELINCUTIES.COM | @CARTWHEELINCUTIES

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PHOTOGRAPHED BY SHANE O’DONNELL

WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT PASSION PROJECT? Inspired by my own tiny Cartwheelin’ Cutie arriving soon, I’m expanding our program to support families from the very beginning. This year, we plan to introduce thoughtful programming for expecting families, postpartum moms, new parents and babies from newborn to age 2½—creating beautiful opportunities for movement, connection and community.

• Women of the South Bay •

Dora Paular

Founder/CEO, Chef Dora Presents

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hef Dora Presents is a full-service catering, culinary and hospitality company owned by Chef Dora Paular. A Torrance native, Dora’s love of food is rooted in her Filipino heritage. She trained at the California Institute of Culinary Arts and École Ritz Escoffier in Paris and has worked as an executive chef, food and beverage director, and private chef. Chef Dora Presents creates culinary and hospitality experiences for weddings, corporate events, nonprofit organizations, milestone celebrations and private clients throughout Los Angeles and the South Bay. TELL US ABOUT OCEAN CANYON. We’ve been so excited by what guests are saying about Ocean Canyon. People really respond to how warm and inviting it feels and how many different ways you can use the space. You have the canyon, ocean and city lights as your backdrop, plus beautiful indoor and outdoor areas that let an event flow naturally and give you options when the weather changes. But what I love most is that we get to bring the whole experience together. Great food, beautiful presentation, thoughtful details and a team that genuinely takes care of people. Guests have called it romantic, breathtaking, seamless and even turnkey, and that’s exactly what we want it to feel like. You come here with an idea for your celebration, and we help you make it happen.

PHOTOGRAPHED BY SHANE O’DONNELL

WHAT DISTINGUISHES YOU IN YOUR FIELD? Clients really appreciate the team approach we bring to every event. We cater everything from intimate celebrations and weddings to large events like Sake in the Park with hundreds of guests. No matter the size, we stay focused on the details, the food and the people, and we send guests home smiling. We know how to anticipate our clients’ needs and ensure every event feels uniquely special.

WHO INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE THIS CAREER? My daughter, without question. She was born with a serious digestive condition, and that changed the way I understood food. Every bite needed to provide nourishment, comfort and joy. It taught me to really think about the person I’m cooking for, and I still carry that into every menu and every event today.

2083 TORRANCE BLVD., TORRANCE | 310-987-7628 | CHEFDORAPRESENTS.COM | @CHEFDORAPRESENTSLLC

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• Women of the South Bay •

Brittanie Hawley Owner, Calista.

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alista. is a new salon in the heart of Hermosa Beach, offering hair services for women and men.

Owner Brittanie Hawley started her business as an independent stylist 15 years ago, working at salons in Northern California, Santa Monica and Hermosa Beach, before opening Calista. in January.

WHAT TRAITS MAKE A GREAT LEADER? A good listener—being available to hear the stylists’ needs, opinions or wants. Accountability—holding others accountable and owning your mistakes as a leader. Consistency— your expectations and standards don’t change depending on the person or on your mood. Recognition—you notice efforts and teamwork, not just mistakes.

HOW DOES AUTHENTICITY PLAY INTO YOUR BUSINESS MODEL? We are where authenticity meets luxury. This idea came when I knew I had more to give in this industry, not just to my own clients but to other stylists and their clients too.

I’m transparent with who I am and accept how each stylist shows up as their own business. I build trust by following through with what I say and giving stylists a space where their needs and opinions matter. We each bring a beautiful individuality that makes Calista. what it is.

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU STAND OUT IN YOUR MARKET? Appointments at our salon are less transactional and more about the connection and the experience. We offer a luxury experience where it doesn’t feel intimidating. Whether you're looking for a subtle refresh or a complete transformation, our goal is simple: to bring your hair dreams to life while making you feel welcomed, cared for and confident. We focus on the details from the moment a client enters the salon because we know you are trusting us not only with your hair but with your time. I have really enjoyed creating a space where people want to be, where we all stay a little longer and it’s not just another appointment on their calendar.

1085 AVIATION BLVD., HERMOSA BEACH | 310-791-4033 | CALISTASALONHB.COM | @CALISTA.HAIRSALON

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PHOTOGRAPHED BY FABIEN & LAURA CASTRO

WHAT CAN WE EACH DO TO SUPPORT OTHER WOMEN IN BUSINESS? Put the ego down. At the heart of this industry, our job is to make our clients (women) feel better about themselves, and we can do the same for one another as stylists. There is room for all of us to succeed.

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WEDDINGS

In the Groove LISSA AND ALLAN LUMUTENGA CELEBRATE “I DO” THEIR WAY. MORE ON NEXT PAGE

L.A. STORY AFTER AN UNEXPECTED COURTHOUSE ELOPEMENT, LISSA AND ALLAN LUMUTENGA GATHERED THEIR FAVORITE PEOPLE FOR THE CELEBRATION THEY’D BEEN WAITING FOR. Written by Darren Elms | Photographed by Michael Anthony

Lissa and Allan Lumutenga didn’t need a wedding to mark the beginning of their marriage. They had already taken care of that part two years earlier, almost by accident.

While making plans to marry, the couple visited Norwalk to pick up their marriage license and were

in Salinas, California, first met thanks to their mutual friend Michelle Beaver. Michelle had been Allan’s university roommate and later worked with Lissa at YouTube.

In 2015, she realized she knew two single people with a shared devotion to ’90s R&B. Michelle introduced them by email.

Allan and Lissa hit it off immediately, but friendship

offered a courthouse date. With appointments booking

came first. The two remained close for several years be-

months in advance, they took it, figuring they could

fore they began dating. When it came time to celebrate

always reschedule once they settled on their plans.

their marriage, there was only one logical choice for the

Instead, they kept the date and eloped.

person to lead the ceremony: Michelle.

“We treated the two years between our elopement and wedding date as our ‘engagement,’” they say.

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U.K., and Lissa, a Filipino American born and raised

The celebration at Shade Hotel in Manhattan Beach was designed as a love letter to Los Angeles, the city

That unconventional beginning suited the couple,

where the couple now lives and where they made their

whose relationship had unfolded at its own pace. Allan,

first home together. There was even a convenient bit of

who was born in Kampala, Uganda, and grew up in the

symbolism: Lissa’s and Allan’s initials spell “L.A.”

| 183

Their backgrounds were woven into the weekend too.

To “celebrate our cultural backgrounds in an authen-

Music remained a through line. DJ Mini Skrrt

tic and creative way” was one of the couple’s priori-

(@freddie) built the night around the couple’s favorite

ties, alongside a larger goal that guided nearly every

sounds—’90s R&B, hip-hop and Afrobeats—while even

decision: showing their guests a very good time. They

the cake-cutting got its own punchline. As the couple

focused on the experience, from the venue and décor to

sliced into a cake from Sweet Lady Jane, O.T. Genasis’

the food, desserts, open bar, and a weekend filled with

“Cut It” played.

events and surprises.

The ceremony itself was “short but sweet,” with the

Behind the celebration was an intentional approach to choosing vendors. One of the couple’s favorite parts

people—and pets—closest to them taking meaning-

of planning was meeting the people who would bring

ful roles. Lissa’s mother walked her down the aisle,

the weekend to life. They made a point of working with

an especially poignant choice following the death of

local businesses and independent vendors whenever

Lissa’s father in 2010. Rocko and Miles, the couple’s

possible, particularly people who are underrepresented

dogs and everyday companions, made their own en-

in the wedding industry.

trance in tuxedo harnesses—escorted down the aisle by their dog walker.

Then came a distinctly L.A. exit. Traditional wedding

Ultimately, there wasn’t a single moment that Lissa and Allan could name as the best. It was the whole arc of the day—from getting ready in separate suites sur-

music began playing as the newlyweds walked away

rounded by close friends to seeing their favorite people

from the ceremony, and then the DJ scratched the record

gathered together, plus the surprises, the music and,

and launched into Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us.”

finally, dancing late into the night.

The surprises continued at the reception. During the couple’s first dance, Lissa stunned Allan with a flash mob she had secretly organized with a 30-person crew of her “hooligans,” dancing to Bruno Mars’ “Marry You.” Later, an In-N-Out Burger truck arrived to give

184 |

out-of-state guests a quintessential taste of California.

Their expectation had been simple: “to have fun and enjoy our time with everyone and each other.”

And that is exactly what they did. ■

In Full Bloom AFTER MORE THAN 25 YEARS IN FLORAL DESIGN, STEMS OWNER KATIE DANIELS STILL FINDS INSPIRATION IN NATURE, CREATIVITY AND THE CUSTOMERS WHO HAVE BECOME LIKE FAMILY. Written by Darren Elms | Photographed by Fabien & Laura Castro

Flowers have always been close to home for Katie

afternoons in the plaza. Its familiar charm and close-

Daniels. Raised in Lunada Bay, she grew up surrounded

knit atmosphere continue to resonate with her.

by the community that would eventually become an integral part of her life and career. Today she owns STEMS Floral Design, a charming shop in Malaga Cove where

“Every day,” she says, “I can’t believe this is where I get to create.”

More than 25 years into floral design, Katie remains

her story with flowers began when she was just 15.

inspired by its ever-changing nature. Each trip to the

Her first job was at the very flower shop she now

flower market can bring a new discovery, and the sea-

owns. Katie worked alongside its previous owner, Jodi,

sons continually offer fresh colors, shapes and textures.

on and off for more than 15 years, learning the nuances

Current favorites include hellebores, peonies, fritillaria,

of floral design along the way. Although she initially

sweet peas and orchids, though she admits the list is

planned to become a teacher, another vocation eventu-

always evolving.

ally proved impossible to ignore.

Recent floral trends are embracing more structural,

“The flowers were calling my name,” she says.

textured compositions, with calla lilies, amaranthus and

After returning home from a chapter in San

anthurium taking center stage. Unexpected additions

Francisco, Katie knew that flowers and design needed

from the produce aisle—papayas, pomegranates and

to be part of her life. She began creating arrangements

grapes among them—are also finding their way into

from home for weddings and events. As her business

her arrangements.

grew, an opportunity arose to purchase the shop where it had all started. That was 16 years ago.

Working with nature, however, requires flexibility.

Flowers are perishable, crops can disappear unexpect-

“I’m forever grateful for this special place and the

edly due to weather and shipments can be held because

gift of designing that Jodi shared with me,” she says.

of pests. For weddings and large events, those surprises

Malaga Cove continues to be a natural choice for the

require quick substitutions and considerable creativity.

business. Katie was part of the last graduating class at

Katie credits her floral teams, co-designers and crew

nearby Malaga Cove School and remembers spending

with meeting those challenges.

“THE SURPRISE OF A BEAUTIFUL BOUQUET CAN REALLY CHANGE SOMEONE’S DAY.” “Never dull,” she says of her work. “Your creativity has to step up big time.”

COVID-19 brought an entirely different challenge.

STEMS Floral Design was forced to close temporarily, while weddings and events were canceled or dramatically altered. What Katie remembers most from that difficult period is how strongly the community rallied around the business.

That relationship with her customers remains at the heart of STEMS. Many have been with Katie since she purchased the shop, accompanying one another through life’s milestones: weddings, birthdays, babies, celebrations and memorials.

“Many of my clients I now consider family,” she says. “Many conversations end with, ‘I love you.’ That is most special.”

Her own family has been equally important. Katie credits her parents and brother, Chris, with being actively involved in STEMS from its beginning and throughout its success.

Ultimately, what keeps Katie devoted to flowers is their simple ability to connect people. While anniversaries, birthdays and celebrations may be traditional occasions for a bouquet, her favorite reason requires no occasion at all.

“My favorite gift of flowers is the ‘just because’ gift,” she says. “The surprise of a beautiful bouquet can really change someone’s day.”

After decades surrounded by blooms, that small moment of joy still means everything. ■

188 |

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Cut From Her Own Cloth DRAWING ON HER JAMAICAN UPBRINGING, HER WORK WITH CHANEL AND HER GRANDMOTHER’S DRESSMAKING, YANIQUE BARNES HAS CREATED A BRIDAL LABEL WHERE CRAFTSMANSHIP AND INDIVIDUALITY COME FIRST. Written by Darren Elms

Yanique Barnes’s path to bridal design began long

where the designer lives in Palos Verdes Estates. After

before she made her first wedding gown. It started in

an earlier chapter in Venice Beach, she wanted a space

Jamaica, where she was born, with a grandmother who

that reflected the sensibility of the gowns: coastal,

made clothing by hand.

relaxed and quietly beautiful.

rhythm of the island has stayed with me,” she says.

“Jamaica moves unhurriedly. There is a natural beat to everything and a real reverence for craft.”

Today, oceans away from her hometown, Yanique

says of the sunlight-filled atelier.

She describes her aesthetic simply as “laid-back luxury bridal.” Each Dreamers & Lovers gown is sewn locally at an atelier in the South Bay with natural-

carries on her grandmother’s dressmaking tradition. “It

feeling fabrics, cotton lace and fluid silhouettes. Rather

is in my DNA,” she says.

than reshaping a woman into a prescribed bridal ideal,

Before launching her business, Yanique spent six years managing boutiques for Chanel—an experience

the dresses are meant to follow the body and personality already there.

that shaped her understanding of luxury. What stayed

“The philosophy underneath everything is that a

with her wasn’t the label or the marketing but the rigor

dress should confirm the woman wearing it,” she says.

behind the finished garment.

“I want a bride to walk in as herself—only more so.”

Yanique was impacted by “the stitching you do not

Her designs begin with the bride rather than a trend

see, the way a garment fits when nothing is fighting the

forecast. Over more than a decade, she has developed

body, the way a client is treated when a house genuine-

a library of bodices, silhouettes, lace families and

ly respects her. Between my grandmother’s hands and

patterns, refining them across hundreds of gowns.

Chanel’s standards, everything I do now sits somewhere

Designing for an individual bride becomes an act of

along that line.”

interpretation—“less like sketching from nothing and

Dreamers & Lovers began almost by accident. In 2012, she started selling dresses on Etsy that weren’t

more like translating.”

Vintage clothing remains a major influence because

designed as bridalwear. Brides began buying them

of its longevity and craftsmanship. So does Spain.

anyway. They were women who felt overlooked by the

Recent time spent in Madrid and Barcelona sourc-

traditional bridal market and wanted wedding dresses

ing antique lace introduced another layer to Yanique’s

that felt natural. This confirmed that Yanique’s bride

dresses: centuries-old embroidery, natural textures

already existed, but no one was designing for her.

and an effortless approach to dressing. Coastal cities,

For the first few years, without a studio of her own, she held fittings in Target and Nordstrom dressing rooms. Today, Dreamers & Lovers has a home at The Glasshouse in Redondo Beach’s Riviera Village, close to

190 |

“It doesn’t feel like a store. It feels like a house,” she

too, provide a recurring reference point, what she calls “beauty without pretense.”

But perhaps the most important part of her work has little to do with fabric. It is helping brides quiet the

PHOTOGRAPHED BY GOLDEN VIBES PHOTO

“I immigrated to the U.S. as a young girl, but the

noise surrounding weddings. After months of Pinterest boards, Instagram images, family opinions and friendly advice, women can arrive unsure whether the dress they love is the dress they are “supposed” to want.

Yanique sees her role as helping them return to their own instincts.

“The bride is always right about how she wants to feel,” she says.

That philosophy also explains her favorite part of the job: watching a bride recognize herself in the mirror.

Not a generic image of “a bride,” but herself.

Her advice for the walk down the aisle follows the same principle: “Don’t try to become a bride. Walk in as yourself.”

After all, she says, “The dress is only there to confirm it.” ■

“THE PHILOSOPHY UNDERNEATH EVERYTHING IS THAT A DRESS SHOULD CONFIRM THE WOMAN WEARING IT. I WANT A BRIDE TO WALK IN AS HERSELF— ONLY MORE SO.” | 193

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JEN CASKEY GROUP DRE 01075946 INFO@JENCASKEYGROUP.COM 310.200.5900 Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01991628. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footage are approximate. License Number 01991628, 01527235, 1527365.

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With over 35 years of experience in the escrow industry, I have dedicated my career to helping turn real estate dreams into reality. Escrow is more than paperwork and closing files, it is about protecting your investment and celebrating important milestones. I have successfully managed thousands of transactions, including residential sales, new construction, Probates, commercial properties, and 1031 Exchanges.

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STRANDHILL.COM

LILY----LIANG -------ti)---STRAND HILL REAL ESTATE LICENSE #01968431. THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS DOCUMENT, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, SQUARE FOOTAGE AND/OR ACREAGE, HAS BEEN PROVIDED BY VARIOUS SOURCES WHICH MAY INCLUDE THE SELLER, PUBLIC RECORDS, THE MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE OR OTHER SOURCES. BROKER HAS NOT AND WILL NOT INVESTIGATE OR VERIFY THE ACCURACY OF THIS INFORMATION. STRAND HILL IS AN EXCLUSIVE MEMBER OF FORBES GLOBAL PROPERTIES. FORBES® IS A REGISTERED TRADEMARK USED UNDER LICENSE.

+1 310 373 3333 | 310 902 7799 Text lily@lilyliang.com | www.lilyliang.com BRE# 00837794

HOME TO THE FINEST COLLECTION OF REAL ESTATE EXPERTS IN THE SOUTH BAY.

STRANDHILL.COM

ti)----------------STRAND HILL REAL ESTATE LICENSE #01968431. THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS DOCUMENT, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, SQUARE FOOTAGE AND/OR ACREAGE, HAS BEEN PROVIDED BY VARIOUS SOURCES WHICH MAY INCLUDE THE SELLER, PUBLIC RECORDS, THE MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE OR OTHER SOURCES. BROKER HAS NOT AND WILL NOT INVESTIGATE OR VERIFY THE ACCURACY OF THIS INFORMATION. STRAND HILL IS AN EXCLUSIVE MEMBER OF FORBES GLOBAL PROPERTIES. FORBES® IS A REGISTERED TRADEMARK USED UNDER LICENSE.

Danielle

La Charite

With more than 20 years in escrow, Danielle LaCharite combines expertise, clear communication, and a personal touch. Based at Peninsula Escrow in Hermosa Beach, she has successfully navigated thousands of transactions, including residential sales, complex multi-party closings, Probates, 1031 Exchanges, and commercial properties. Known for her proactive approach and meticulous attention to detail, Danielle stays ahead of challenges to ensure every escrow is seamless, transparent, and secure.

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HERMOSA BEACH OFFICE Kellen • Cindy • Danielle Laurie • Chris • Amber

Because Every Detail Matters 310.937.5776

Danielle@PenEscrow.com

1311 Hermosa Ave. 3rd Floor, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254

Experience and Knowledge Open Doors ~ Relationships Keep Them Open

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My husband, Josh, and our rescue family are my heart: Jaz and Tiny Tim, our rescue dogs; and Mister Meaui (Mr. Meowi), our rescue cat from the Lahaina fires. They’re what makes home home.

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Jackie

McGee

I’ve managed the Torrance Peninsula Escrow since 1995.

I’ve been in the escrow industry for over 40 years.

My philosophy for a successful transaction is full communication with all parties. I handle a variety of escrow, resale, commercial, refinance, and bulk sales transaction, 1031 exchange and more.

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JENNY MORANT & TYLER MORANT Jenny Morant Group O: 424.409.8976 hello@jennymorant.com @jennymorantgroup | jennymorantgroup.com DRE 01874517 | 02155473 Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01991628. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footage are approximate. License Number 01991628, 01527235, 1527365.

LAST WORD

Half Empty AS ONE CHILD BUILDS A LIFE AWAY FROM HOME AND ANOTHER PREPARES TO LEAVE, GELATO MAMA FINDS HERSELF FACING A QUESTION SHE DIDN’T EXPECT: “WHERE WILL I BE?” Written by Emily Tecklenburg

At 46 years of age, my midlife is creeping in. I have no

There’s just … the unknown. A great, giant patch of

desire to mark it with a tiny two-seater in a color that

unknown, and it’s the first time in my life I don’t feel

screams “yikes,” little interest in an intense pickleball

driven by an external force that existed without my will.

hobby laced with Botox and, as of now, no tattoo to

I think about this a lot as I imagine my daughter out

time-stamp my disappearing youth. Midlife for me is

there next year, navigating the great unknown her-

being defined by the expected but still abrupt and com-

self. Recently we were exploring college campuses, and

pletely rude departure of my children.

alongside the nervous excitement, there was a palpable

Currently, I’m just a half empty-nester. My son

anxiousness that swept over her. I felt her brain twist-

abandoned me last year when he headed off to

ing and turning like a complicated Tinkertoy puzzle,

Washington to do nothing but live his very best life.

wheels spinning inevitable fear-driven thoughts.

Nothing screams “I miss you, Mom” like a thumbs-up reply to a text I sent him three days ago.

I took her hand, assured her that these feelings, these fears were normal. You have a whole year stretched out

My daughter is class of 2027, and while I roll into her

in front of you, I said, to just take one step at a time.

senior year having done it once before, it’s hitting a bit

You’re not ready yet. But you will be, my daughter. I

different knowing the youngest is on her way out.

promise, you will be.

Most of my adult life has been defined by the role of

But I’m scared too. Who will I be when my anchors

mama, mom, bro. As a young(ish) new mom, I hadn’t

are both dropped into another sea? In tandem with

yet really figured out who I was when I discovered I

my daughter, I’ll take one step at a time into the scary

was pregnant with my son. But his birth anchored me.

and trust the words I preached to her. I’ll be ready; I’ll

Motherhood guided me, provided purpose and gave me

remember that motherhood is only a part of who I am.

the two greatest love stories of my life.

I’m not sure what is waiting, but today I’m dreaming

But as I tiptoe to the edge of my soon-to-be empty

of mountains and rivers, a backyard with a clothesline

nest, I can’t help but wonder what life will be defined

and a house with a spare bedroom or two. One for me,

by now. I don’t know what’s on the other side. I don’t

and the others always ready for my anchors at sea. ■

have a big career to boast about. There’s no second home or secure retirement plan. No whimsical midlife hobby to take up.

210 |

Follow Emily’s blog at gelatomama.substack.com.

WEDNESDAY,

OCTOBER

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