Ventura Blvd | Feb/Mar 2024

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024

Sculptor Jim Hake PAYING IT FORWARD

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FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024

AND THEN SOME...

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TO-DO’S BEFORE “I DO” Wedding planner Julie Pryor with tips and advice for the couple—and for guests.

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MOST ROMANTIC HONEYMOONS

ARTISTIC REACH

Swoonworthy getaways for newlyweds

The work of sculptor Jim Hake and his

(and others romantically inclined).

68 CATCH IT NOW

Enchanting gift ideas for the bride

From tech to retro, our spring arts preview.

and groom.

24

76

A RESONANT RETURN

CHANGING VIEWS

A family recovers a painting stolen during

The transformation of a nondescript

the Holocaust.

hillside home in Encino into a

DESIGN SHOWCASE Discover Eco Landscape Design & Build and meet the married couple who run it.

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EARTHY TOKENS

From gowns to venues, your ultimate wedding resource guide.

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106 LAST WORD Romance in a long-term marriage.

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dreamy contemporary.

32 FRESH MEAT

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GARDEN ACTION LIST Getting the Valley garden ready for spring.

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COVER Sculptor Jim Hake photographed by Monica Orozco

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EDITOR’S LETTER

With my husband, Charlie, at our 1993 wedding. This was our “inside the limo” moment.

I went to a beautiful wedding this past October on the East Coast. I couldn’t help but chuckle during the recep-

ever WEDDINGS special section, packed with everything

tion when the bride and groom went missing. Everyone

from advice on venue selection to tips on attire. It’s

kept asking, “Where are Diane and Greg?” I spotted

aimed at newlyweds as well as guests. There are a lot of

the newlyweds far out in a field taking photographs. Of

new bells and whistles with weddings these days. For

themselves; with friends and family. I wanted to whisper

example, the pre-ceremony welcome party—which, as

in their ears, “Guys, take a couple of shots and then be

I learned, is not the same thing as the rehearsal din-

with your guests. If you are lucky, having everyone you

ner. Plus, a perfectly swoonworthy piece by our favorite

love all together will happen one or two more times in

world traveler, Maira Suro, on the world’s most romantic

your life. Drink it in like there’s no tomorrow!” For most

honeymoon destinations (page 60). Dare I mention that

of us, only a couple wedding photos wind up on dis-

these also sound heavenly for a couple celebrating their

play in our homes—and with the younger generations,

20th or 30th?

my guess is zero photos will make it into frames. The

12 |

That brings us to our first issue of 2024 and our first-

We also have a special ARTS section. We love to cel-

majority will wind up in an album you’ll look at once ev-

ebrate creatives who live and work in the Valley. Writer

ery 10 years or so. Same deal for the video. We splurged

Diane Haithman introduces us to sculptor Jim Hake (on

on our wedding and reception video; we wanted every

the cover and page 14), who creates fascinating mixed-

single moment captured. We’ve looked at it once—on

media pieces and gives back by teaching at a local center

our 25th anniversary. I rounded up our two sons and my

for disabled adults. Diane also files a piece on a family’s

husband. As they watched the bridal procession, there

efforts to recover a painting stolen during the Holocaust

were a couple of quick hair comments. “Geez Mom, why

(page 24). It’s an inspiring story being told through an

can’t you wear your hair long like that now? You look so

installation at the Skirball Cultural Center. For other ex-

young!” Dude, I was young. And “Wow, Dad, you had a

hibitions and performances to soak up over the next few

lot of hair!” After a few minutes, the guys exited, and I

months, don’t miss our spring arts preview calendar on

soon followed suit.

page 20. A dose of culture is good for the soul. ■

Follow me on Instagram @she_sez

Linda Grasso, Editor-in-Chief

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14 |

ARTISTIC REACH SCULPTOR JIM HAKE FINDS CREATIVE GRATIFICATION TEACHING CERAMICS TO DISABLED ADULTS IN THE VALLEY, GIVING THEM THE OPPORTUNITY TO BECOME CREATORS THEMSELVES. Written by Diane Haithman | Photographed by Monica Orozco

Moving from Toronto to Los Angeles

out the clay to create long rope-like pieces and then

in 2022 wasn’t something sculptor

coiling the ropes up to construct walls for vessels

Jim Hake had planned. He had been

or sculptures. “Slab building” is another technique.

pursuing his career in Canada for 14 years, and in Italy prior to that, working in clay and mixed media.

He was also teaching his craft. But when his wife, Silvia Forni, was

the sheets and then use them to create.

“I have one student who wasn’t always blind but has been for the past 40 years, and ceramics has opened a floodgate for him. Working from memory, he creates the most amazing figures and animals. His work is raw and fresh and you can see while he’s working that he is

offered a prestigious post as director

in his element as if he’s been waiting his whole life to

of UCLA’s Fowler Museum, it was too

get these images out of his head and into the world.”

James Sauer, TLC creative arts program director,

good an opportunity to pass up. As

says that Jim is adept at finding work-arounds for his

it turned out, LA was perfect for Jim

clients’ physical limits. “Where a brush might be used

and Jim was perfect for LA. Or more

for glazing, a client might use a car-waxing mitt,”

specifically, for the Valley.

While continuing his career as a studio artist, Jim has

James says. “Rather than being frustrated because you can’t hold a brush, they can use a glove to achieve the same goal.”

also found an ideal niche at Therapeutic Learning Center

In his own work, Jim is constantly experimenting

for the Blind (TLC) in Reseda, which provides training

with unorthodox tools and mixed media. In one series

programs for students with visual impairment or mo-

of sculptural busts, he uses chopped-up vinyl records

tor skill issues. Ceramics was new to the center when

and CDs to create the effect of leaded stained glass. His

Jim arrived about a year ago to build a studio from the

“Paradise Lost” series uses elegant porcelain to create

ground up, including custom-built tables for ceramics,

the effect of kitschy plastic lawn flamingos—though he

in an empty room formerly used for music therapy.

twists body shapes and sometimes reverses the pink-

Jim brings not only his skills and talent to his role at

16 |

Students roll out big clay chunks into sheets, cut up

and-black tones of beaks and feathers.

TLC, but also first-hand experience. Prior to moving to

“I like the idea of making these seemingly mass-

Toronto, he spent a decade as artistic director of a cre-

produced plastic objects in the throes of relationships

ative production center in Italy that catered to students

where they are often interpreted in wildly diverse

with mental and physical challenges.

ways,” Jim says.

His job, he says, “is to understand what the indi-

His current focus is his “Lost and Found” pieces that

vidual’s challenges are and try to find ways to turn

incorporate such elements as lost or abandoned gloves

those into strengths. I had the mother of a student tell

found in chilly Toronto that have been frozen into the

me that since her adult son began the program, he’s

hand symbols for letters in American Sign Language.

now using utensils at the table, which he never did be-

“My work has a bit of a slow burn,” Jim says. “An

fore. It’s because of the need to work with tools in the

important ingredient in my creative process is ambigui-

ceramic process.”

ty. I don’t want it to hit you over the head. My work of-

Supplied with tools specific to their needs and abil-

ten has a level of playfulness to it. Sometimes I’ll have

ity, some students create functional ware with a series

people get back to me months after they’ve experienced

of simple plaster molds that Jim creates for them to

the work and tell me that they’re still processing what

cover in clay. He also teaches “coil building,” rolling

they saw.”

A work by Jim that depicts swimmers in a pool who appear to be consumed by ecstasy or horror—are they frolicking or drowning?— while the pool’s sunny surface is marred by the shadows of fighter planes flying overhead.

Jim’s teaching might also be described as a slow burn. He says among his teaching experiences, TLC in Reseda has been the most gratifying. “Every day, these students gain more independence in the classroom. They arrive excited and inspired and fill the space with gratitude, joy and love. It’s challenging work, but I leave every day with a full heart.” ■

18 |

“MY WORK HAS A BIT OF A SLOW BURN. AN IMPORTANT INGREDIENT IN MY CREATIVE PROCESS IS AMBIGUITY. I DON’T WANT IT TO HIT YOU OVER THE HEAD. MY WORK OFTEN HAS A LEVEL OF PLAYFULNESS TO IT. SOMETIMES I’LL HAVE PEOPLE GET BACK TO ME MONTHS AFTER THEY’VE EXPERIENCED THE WORK AND TELL ME THAT THEY’RE STILL PROCESSING WHAT THEY SAW.”

Mar 13 – Apr 7, 2024

by GLORIA CALDERÓN KELLETT

“Gloria Calderón Kellet has built a career making stories about Hispanic characters that lead with joy” – New York Times

pasadenaplayhouse.org | 626-356-PLAY | Tickets start at $35

Catch It Now FROM TECHNOLOGY-INFUSED EXHIBITS TO HISTORICAL RETROSPECTIVES, GET A DOSE OF CULTURE THIS SPRING.

GOING ON NOW COMMON GROUND Through January 2025, Skirball Cultural Center, skirball.org An exhibition by LA-based artist Adam Silverman aimed at celebrating American pluralism while also fostering human connection. The ceramicist collected clay, water and wood ash from all 50 American states and the five inhabited U.S. territories. From that material he created

BETYE SAAR: DRIFTING TOWARD TWILIGHT Through 2025, The Huntington Library, Art Museum and Botanical Gardens, huntington.org Betye Saar, a 96-year-old American artist well known for her assemblage art, shows off what makes her extraordinary in this Huntington-commissioned exhibition. In a room with dark blue walls and shifting light effects, you’ll discover a 17-foot-long vintage

TO PAINT IS TO LIVE: ART & RESISTANCE

wooden canoe. The “passengers” are antlers, metal

IN THERESIENSTADT

birdcages, chairs and other objects that Saar found on

Through summer, Holocaust Museum LA,

the grounds of the library.

holocaustmuseumla.org An exploration of daily life in the Theresienstadt

20 |

100 CARATS: ICONS OF THE GEM WORLD

Ghetto through the works of remarkable artists Erich

Through April 21, Natural History Museum, nhm.org

Lichtblau-Leskly, Fred Beckmann, Moritz Mueller

Step into a dazzling array of magnificent gemstones

and Leo Haas, all of whom endured the harrowing

from around the world. With more than two dozen

conditions of Theresienstadt. The exhibition

gems on display, the centerpiece of the exhibit is one

underscores how, in the face of unimaginable adversity,

of the largest cut diamonds in the world: the Jonker

prisoners were able to use creative expression to

Diamond, discovered in 1934, weighing in at 125 carats.

reclaim their humanity.

PHOTO OF ADAM SILVERMAN WITH THE COMMON GROUND INSTALLATION BY JACEK DOLATA “THE CROONER OF THERESIENSTADT” PAINTING BY SO ERICH LICHTBLAU-LESKLY; COURTESY OF HOLOCAUST MUSEUM LA “WITHOUT AIRS” BY LILIAN MARTINEZ; COURTESY OF FRIEZE LA

plates, bowls and cups as well as 56 ceremonial pots.

FEBRUARY

annual fundraisers. Proceeds from purchases contribute

MASTERS OF

to the Autry, a vibrant cultural institution dedicated to

THE AMERICAN WEST

telling the diverse stories of the American West.

February 10 to March 24, Autry Museum of the American West, autry.org

FRIEZE LA

With over 60 artists, this

March 1-3, Santa Monica Airport, frieze.com

exhibition and sale displays

The fifth edition of SoCal’s most prestigious art fair,

paintings, mixed media and

Frieze LA brings together a carefully curated group

sculptures by nationally

of over 95 exhibitors from 21 countries. The much-

recognized artists in one of the

celebrated Focus section of the fair will explore the idea

nonprofit museum’s biggest

of ecology to highlight a diverse selection of newer U.S. galleries and emerging artists.

MARCH ATLANTA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA March 9, The Soraya, thesoraya.org Nathalie Stutzmann broke the gender barrier at the pinnacle of classical music when she became only the second woman in history to lead a major American orchestra. In a program featuring Beethoven and Dvorak, the orchestra’s music director leads Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 5 “Emperor,” one of the composer’s most demanding works.

ONE OF THE GOOD ONES March 17 to April 7, Pasadena Playhouse pasadenaplayhouse.org A funny, heartfelt story from Gloria Calderón Kellett, the co-creator of Netflix’s One Day at a Time. When the “perfect” Latina daughter brings her boyfriend home to meet the parents, her family’s biases and preconceptions are on full display. As tensions run high, everyone must navigate the ins and outs of family dynamics and the boundaries of acceptance.

ESA-PEKKA SALONEN AND THE SAN FRANCISCO SYMPHONY March 22, LA Phil, laphil.com This performance features John Adams’ “Naive and Sentimental Music”—a piece originally dedicated to and premiered by Salonen. The work combines the scale and scope of a Bruckner symphony with Adams’

| 21

free-flowing and

ED RUSCHA / NOW THEN

expressive minimalist

April 7 to October 6, LACMA, lacma.org

language. Plus violinist

Ed Ruscha has consistently held up a mirror to

Lisa Batiashvili joins

American society by transforming some of its defining

Salonen, performing

attributes—from popular entertainment to the ever-

Sibelius’ dramatic Violin

changing urban landscape—into the subject of his

Concerto in D Minor.

art. This exhibition includes his early works and installations and his photographic documentation of the

RITA MCBRIDE: PARTICULATES

streets of LA beginning in 1965.

Opens March 26, The Hammer, thehammer.ucla.edu Composed of high-intensity laser beams, water

FUNNY GIRL

molecules and dust particles in the air, this installation

April 7–28, Ahmanson Theatre, centertheatregroup.com

prompts reconsideration of fundamental elements of

A Broadway revival that tells the comedic story of the

sculpture such as mass, scale, verticality and surface.

indomitable Fanny Brice, a girl from the Lower East

Stretching across the former commercial space at the

Side who dreamed of a life on the stage. Everyone told

corner of the office tower that houses the museum,

her she’d never be a star, but she ultimately became

Particulates is a rotated, hyperbolic parabola structure

one of the most beloved performers in history.

MAY

FAT HAM

COME FROM AWAY

March 27 to April 28, Geffen Playhouse, geffenplayhouse.org

May 7–12, Pantages Theatre, broadwayinhollywood.com

This Pulitzer Prize–winning take on Hamlet, direct from

A stirring and inspiring musical that takes you into

Broadway, makes its West Coast debut. It tells the story of

the heart of the remarkable true story of the small

a queer Black man who encounters a dilemma when the

town in Newfoundland that opened its homes to 7,000

ghost of his dead father shows up at his family’s barbecue

stranded travelers on 9/11. During that week, cultures

wedding reception demanding his murder be avenged.

clashed and nerves ran high—but uneasiness turned

APRIL

into trust, music rang out into the night, and gratitude grew into friendships.

CAMILLE CLAUDEL

22 |

April 2 to July 21, The Getty, getty.edu

DANCE ME

Camille Claudel was among the most daring and

May 10–11, The Wallis, wallis.org

visionary artists of the late 19th century. Although she

A performance by artists from Ballet Jazz Montreal, “Dance

is remembered today for her passionate relationship

Me” is inspired by the work of songwriter Leonard Cohen

with artist Auguste Rodin and her 30-year stay at a

(who was from Montreal and who, during his lifetime,

psychiatric institution, her art remains little known

approved this production). The show combines scenic,

outside of France. This exhibition seeks to reevaluate

visual, musical, dramaturgical and choreographic writing

Claudel’s work and affirm her legacy.

to pay tribute to Montreal’s greatest ambassador. ■

“CROUCHING WOMAN” BY CAMILLE CLAUDEL; PHOTO BY MARCO ILLUMINATI

that is both optical and ephemeral.

24 |

A Resonant

Return THE 82-YEAR JOURNEY BY THREE GENERATIONS OF AN LA FAMILY TO RECOVER A PAINTING STOLEN BY THE NAZIS—A STORY MORE IMPORTANT NOW THAN EVER. Written by Diane Haithman

| 25

Brno, Czechoslovakia, during the

Party during the Holocaust. The 17th-century painting

Nazi occupation (1939–45) and Los

is now on display in Skirball Cultural Center’s exhibi-

Angeles, California, 2023, are two

tion RECLAIMED: A Family Painting, on view through

cities separated by geography and

26 |

March 3.

The painting—Isaac Blessing Jacob by German Baroque

time that would seem to have no

artist Johann Carl Loth—hangs on a wall, but it’s not

apparent connection.

just a picture in a frame. The gallery surrounding the painting has been transformed to replicate the elegant

But the connection is deep and real and reflected in

dining room where the painting held a place of honor in

the story of three generations of women representing

the Brno home of Johann and Lisbeth Bloch. The Blochs

one LA family who embarked on an 82-year journey to

were one of countless Jewish families whose art and

recover a painting stolen from the family by the Nazi

other valuable possessions were looted by the Nazis. In

addition to the painting, the exhibit includes such historic and family memorabilia as clothing, letters, and photos, along with other works of art and antiques.

Exhibition curator Alissa Schapiro, Skirball associate curator and collections specialist, says placing the painting in the home setting helps the exhibition resonate for visitors in the face of a rise anti-Semitism in the U.S. in reaction to the Israel-Hamas war.

“We opened on October 19, a couple of weeks after the largest massacre of Jews since the Holocaust on October 7,” Alissa says. “Seeing how anti-Semitism fractured and destroyed this family in so many ways, then (seeing) their ability to regain something, provides a little sense of fullness, a little sense of victory at the end. You can’t get the people back, but you can get back the things that the people you loved once loved.”

Adds Alissa, “What we really hope is that other family members of Holocaust victims or survivors might want to undertake this challenging, laborious and oftentimes painful process of getting back some of the things that that were once important to them and to their families.”

Liz Schenk (above) arrived in the U.S. by boat in 1938. Below: Johann and Lisbeth Bloch, the original owners of the painting.

In the Bloch family, much of the credit for starting the process belongs to Johann and Lisbeth’s daughter Hedy. Hedy had married a Catholic engineer named Leo Schenk. (She later changed the spelling to Shenk, and divorced Leo in 1947.) Hedy and her daughter, Liz, fled to the United States in 1938, settling in LA. Lisbeth had died in a car crash in 1928. Johann, a successful businessman, died shortly after the family was evicted from their home during the Nazi occupation.

Fortunately, Hedy managed to collect professional photographs of the Bloch home that included the painting.

These were used later as proof of ownership when she began her mission to reclaim it. Hedy was joined in pursuit of the painting by Liz (now Liz Goldman) and Liz’s daughter, Cheryl Bernstein, who grew up in Brentwood and now resides in Santa Clarita with her husband.

Some Angelenos may be familiar with the restitution case of the late Maria Altmann, a Jewish refugee from Austria who lived in Cheviot Hills and led a successful legal campaign to reclaim five family-owned paintings

| 27

it on a deeper level,” Cheryl says. “You don’t have to be Jewish, but you have to be interested in the cultural side of it.” The painting is on a 20-year loan to the Skirball.

Cheryl adds that the search for the painting lent her insight into the character of her mother and her grandmother that she might otherwise have ignored.

Cheryl Bernstein (right) with Rebecca Friedman of the New York State Holocaust Claims Processing Office.

“My mother and I have always been close, but it really made me understand the generational trauma of going through a war.”

Grandmother Hedy, she says, was a stoic and a rebel in a way that was practically unheard of for a woman

by renowned artist Gustav Klimt stolen by the Nazis.

of the time. After coming to Los Angeles, Hedy, then

The most famous of those paintings, the 1907 Portrait

a struggling single mother, worked as a bus driver, an

of Adele Bloch-Bauer, was sold to a New York gallery for

apartment landlord, and in various other enterprises

a reported $135 million. Besides sharing the common

before landing as a quality control supervisor at Xerox.

Bloch name (no relation), Cheryl says Altmann’s high-

“She was actually one of the first female drivers in

profile, big-money case always leads to pointed ques-

Czechoslovakia,” Cheryl says. “She loved to tell the

tions about the monetary value of Isaac Blessing Jacob.

story about how she went for her driver’s license and

For Cheryl and Liz, now 87, bringing Isaac Blessing

literally had to open the engine and name every part

Jacob to LA is not so much about the painting, or

of the engine. It shows that from a very young age she

money, but about their family and three generations of

wasn’t afraid to step into a man’s world.”

strong, determined women.

“The first thing that people ask me—or think, but

of maternal instinct. “She wasn’t raised to mother. Her

don’t have the nerve to ask—is what is the painting

children were raised with nannies and seamstresses and

worth. We are not talking a Klimt here, right?” Cheryl

cooks and all that,” granddaughter Cheryl says. Cheryl

says with a laugh. “I can say unequivocally that we

jokes that when her grandmother became a bus driver

spent more trying to get the painting back than the

for the Beverly Hills school district, she loved the driv-

painting is worth. You’re talking 82 years of attorneys,

ing but was less fond of the students who misbehaved

claims and time.”

on the bus.

Despite repeated trips to Europe and claims filed

There’s more to be discovered as Cheryl and mom Liz

with the Czech and German governments, none of

continue to share their stories. And curator Alissa, for

the family treasures had been recovered at the time

one, is glad they’ve shared their history with the Skirball.

of Hedy’s death in 1997. It was not until 2020, with

“For me, what’s been most rewarding is seeing Liz, who’s

the help of New York State Department of Financial

in her late 80s, and Cheryl walk through the exhibition

Services Holocaust Claims Processing Office, that the

themselves,” Alissa shares. “They had family fly in from

family finally recovered the painting when an attorney

across the country and walked through together.

discovered it for sale at the Dorotheum auction house in Vienna.

Cheryl says the idea was never to keep the painting

28 |

Hedy also was not afraid to be blunt about her lack

“I was able to take them through before it opened to the public, and just seeing the look on Liz’s face— Cheryl has said that she’s never felt closer to her

in her home, but to choose an institution that could

mom. Spending so much time together and asking

share the reclamation story with others. “I like the

these questions of their past and has been just tremen-

Skirball because they honor the history and understand

dously rewarding.” ■

Delfeayo Marsalis

Sat Jan 27 | 8pm

Wed Feb 7 | 8pm

Herb Alpert and Lani Hall

Delfeayo Marsalis & The Uptown Jazz Orchestra

Wed Jan 31 | 8pm Thu Feb 1 | 8pm

Sat Feb 10 | 8pm

A GOLDEN ANNIVERSARY WITH

Ranky Tanky WITH VERY SPECIAL GUEST

Ms. Lisa Fischer Fri Feb 2 | 8pm Sat Feb 3 | 8pm

Booker T. Jones WITH SPECIAL GUEST

Matthew Whitaker

Eliades Ochoa WITH SPECIAL GUEST

Harold López-Nussa

SPRING FLING Alfresco delights for your backyard paradise.

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

S

pring is starting to poke out from behind winter’s shadow, which means it’s time to start planning our great outdoor get-togethers. Is your space ready? For more than half a century, Aldik Home has been the secret weapon for savvy designers looking to breathe new life into an indoor or outdoor space. For creating the perfect backyard paradise with high-quality patio furniture, there is nothing on the market like Aldik Home’s collection of Summer Classics.

The line is meticulously crafted from premium materials using both age-old building methods and state-of-the-art finishing processes to ensure the furniture will last for years to come. While other manufacturers may be more well known, Summer Classics is built to a higher standard and is supremely comfortable. Don’t just trust us—go sit in it!

All Summer Classics teak furniture is made with marine-grade, sustainably harvested teak available in two finishes: Natural, and a weathered, low-maintenance finish called Oyster. Center-cut from the heartwood of fine Indonesian teak, it performs flawlessly even in coastal environments. Constructed from premium materials, Summer Classics carries this high standard through to their gorgeous resin wicker and aluminum furniture as well.

Summer Classics is that rare, luxury outdoor furniture line that hits every note. It is stylish and sophisticated, as luxurious as indoor furniture and built to last. With more than 25 collections represented, Aldik Home features the finest showcase of Summer Classics furniture in the country.

If you’re looking to turn your outdoor space into the hottest new hangout, try Aldik Home’s American Fyre Designs fire tables and bowls. This gorgeous collection is made from durable glass fiber reinforced concrete—a composite material that is strong, weather-resistant, fire-retardant, impermeable and simply stunning. These tables and bowls are perfectly suited to even the harshest marine environments.

Accented with your favorite selection of fire media—such as reflective fire glass— these American Fyre Design fire tables are not only stunning but will stand the test of time.

Beat the sweltering summer heat under the gorgeous canopy of a Treasure Garden cantilever umbrella. With 360º rotation, front-to-back and side-to-side tilting, and gorgeous fabric options, it’s easy to see why craftsmanship, beauty and ease of operation set Treasure Garden apart from other umbrella manufacturers.

Custom order the umbrella of your dreams or choose from Aldik Home’s in-stock collection for an instant backyard transformation.

All of these beautiful outdoor furniture collections, fire tables and umbrellas are interspersed among realistic artificial trees, gorgeous floral arrangements and so much more that make Aldik Home beautiful. Discover everything you need to turn your home into an oasis. Prepare to be inspired; there’s no place like Aldik Home.

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

“IT’S TIME TO START PLANNING OUR GREAT OUTDOOR GET-TOGETHERS.”

ALDIK HOME 7651 SEPULVEDA BLVD., VAN NUYS 818-988-5970 ALDIKHOME.COM | @ALDIKHOME

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Fresh Meat THE NEW EATERY BLVD STEAK OPENS IN SHERMAN OAKS WITH A SWANKY SOPHISTICATED VIBE, ALL THE STEAK HOUSE CLASSICS, AND A FEW FUN TWISTS. Written by Jeffrey Saad

If there was ever a restaurant group in the Valley that

add interest for those looking for something a little dif-

has the art of hospitality down, it is the one owned

ferent. Other noteworthy deviations include such starters

by Christian Corben and Paul Carroll. They’re the duo

as crab cakes, Wagyu meatballs and lobster skewers. We

behind Casita and Taisho, Sherman Oaks eateries that

really enjoyed beginning our meal with the sauteed shrimp

always draw a vibrant crowd. Just a few blocks west

with creole butter—butterflied, silky white flesh cooked

on Ventura Boulevard lies their latest endeavor: BLVD

to perfection. They were plump and sweet with the fresh

Steak. And like their other restaurants, it’s not just

taste of the sea. Chef Adam Titze’s sauce is brilliant. The

about food and drink.

rich and delicious creole butter has a clean, balanced finish

You feel the vibe at BLVD Steak from the moment you walk through the front door. After a warm welcome

we noshed on the beluga caviar, which was served on

from a smiling hostess, and after your eyes adjust to

“smoking” dry ice. With a presentation meant to dazzle,

the dim, moody lighting, a gorgeous square-shaped

you couldn’t help but smile (and, for some, Instagram).

bar appears in your line of vision. With 35 seats and

There are lots of non-steak main dish options in-

attractive illumination, the anticipation sets in; you are

cluding branzino, salmon, an Iberico pork chop, even

hungry for the show to begin. It was a Wednesday night

spaghetti and meatballs—Wagyu style, of course.

at 7 p.m. when we visited, and both the main din-

32 |

thanks to a splash of vermouth. From the raw bar menu,

As for sides, the standout was the tower of onion

ing room and the back room, called “the patio,” were

rings. I haven’t had tempura that perfect since eating

packed. (That room was once a patio that some might

my way through Tokyo; not too greasy, and the sweet

remember back when the site housed Stanley’s.)

onions were floating in a crispy cloak of fried perfection.

Decor is a major factor in that vibe. Large inviting

The wine list includes mostly California reds, al-

booths, upholstered in a plush forest-green fabric, line

though there are a few “super Tuscans” (wines from

the walls in both dining spaces, while tables fill out the

Italy made with bordeaux grapes). The whites are a bit

rest of the handsome space. Combined, the two rooms

more wide-ranging, encompassing California, Europe

can seat 200 people. But with dark hues and warm

and New Zealand.

lighting, the space feels intimate and convivial. The pa-

In between courses, you are at a show. The servers

tio, where we dined, has high coffered ceilings, and the

glide by delivering shakers full of martinis and carrying

trim encasing the booths is painted black, creating an

oversized pepper grinders that look like the pillars of a

art deco vibe. The roof retracts for open-air dining. (In

spice temple. As we enjoyed dessert (a decadent butter

no way do you feel like you are relegated to a secondary

cake), I couldn’t help thinking: the Valley is lucky to

space.) Off the main dining room: a sophisticated space

have this incredible team vending memorable experi-

filled with wine that can be reserved for private dining.

ences. Eating out isn’t just about the food. It is about

Let’s get to the food—most importantly, the meat. In

the way you feel. It is the stage that is set to allow the

addition to the standard steak house offerings, diners can

people you enjoy being at a table with to share stories,

opt for dry-aged and Wagyu cuts. À la carte sauces, but-

laughter and an onion ring that will make you close your

ters and toppings like a “blue cheese crust” and crab Oscar

eyes and take pause. ■

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Snow Days IN A REGION THAT PANICS AT THE POSSIBLITY OF A RAINSTORM, IT’S HARD TO IMAGINE WHAT THE VALLEY WOULD BE LIKE IN A SNOWSTORM. BUT SIGNIFICANT SNOW ACCUMULATIONS HAVE OCCURRED LOCALLY. HERE WE RECOUNT A COUPLE OF THEM FROM THE PAST CENTURY. Photographs courtesy of Los Angeles Public Library/ Valley Times Collection

It was a white winter wonderland, the likes of which many of us have never seen. The snow started falling in LA on January 9, 1949, and continued intermittently for three days. It caused chaos for commuters and road crews, but excitement among the city’s youngest residents. Snow hadn’t been recorded here since January 15, 1932, when 2 inches fell.

The 1949 snowstorm was caused by a weather pattern that brought cold air from Canada and Alaska down to Southern California, where it met with a low-pressure system moving in from the Pacific Ocean.

Four inches of snow was recorded in downtown LA and up to a foot in other parts of the region.

Temperatures dipped into the 20s at night, causing residents to cover plants and citrus farmers to light oilburning smudge pots to protect their crops.

Sepulveda Boulevard south of Ventura Boulevard in Sherman Oaks (aka Sepulveda Pass) was shut down for three days due to ice. Only cars with chains were allowed through. The canyon roads over the Santa Monica Mountains also became impassable. Nearly 20 motorists in Laurel Canyon, some with frozen radiators, were trapped in their cars for several hours.

A brother and sister make snowballs in the backyard of their West Valley ranch-style home, landscaped with tropical shrubs, after the 1957 storm.

Newspaper coverage of the storm was extensive, with headlines such as “Snowstorm Paralyzes Southland,” and “Southland Shivers Under Blanket of Snow.”

Eight years later we got whacked with another

| 35

A shot of the 1949 storm taken near the intersection of Coldwater Canyon and Mulholland Drive. It was the first Valley snowfall in 17 years.

Below: During the 1949 storm, children gathered in the street to make snowballs. They were too young to have experienced the big snow of 1932. So for most, it was their first snowball fight.

storm. Up to a foot of snow fell in Los Angeles on January 29, 1957.

Again, there were commuter hassles. The intersection of Ventura and Topanga Canyon Boulevards was blanketed by a thick white carpet and rendered impassable.

Snow piled up to 4 inches deep in Canoga Park, Encino, Chatsworth, Reseda and Northridge. Cars skidded and motorists were advised to use chains. Traffic was further complicated by toppled mature trees and branches broken due to the weight of the snow.

The West Valley got the most accumulation in the San Fernando Valley. The deepest falls were recorded in Woodland Hills where Woodland Hills Elementary School was closed for a day. We’re quite certain no tears were shed. ■

36 |

and ultimate event space

R E A LP R OESTAT E FILES Buying and selling a home in the San Fernando Valley has been a roller-coaster ride for the past few years—with soaring prices, interest rates and, at times, a limited inventory. Whether you are a buyer or a seller, it is now more important than ever to have a capable, experienced, trustworthy professional by your side. The long-term impact of a good transaction can be life-changing, while the consequences of a poorly conceived deal can be financially (and mentally) derailing. Here we share our annual Real Estate profiles section, showcasing some of the most accomplished, skillful real estate agents in the Valley. Whether you are seeking advice about your property or you are ready to initiate the buying or selling process, the professionals on the following pages are enthusiastic and prepared to handle your real estate needs—from simple strategizing sessions on first homes to complex closures on multimillion-dollar estates.

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HARRIET CAMERON & JENNY BIRCHFIELD-EICK HARRIET CAMERON GROUP | BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESERVICES CALIFORNIA PROPERTIES

42

CAROL WOLFE RODEO REALTY

44

CRAIG STRONG CRAIG STRONG GROUP

46

DANIELLE PERETZ THE BEVERLY HILLS ESTATES

48

MARLENE GEIBELSON & DAYNA CAMPBELL BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESERVICES CALIFORNIA PROPERTIES

WRITTEN BY LAURA L. WATTS

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

RE AL ESTATE

HARRIET CAMERON & JENNY BIRCHFIELD-EICK Harriet Cameron Group | Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

HOW DOES YOUR BACKGROUND ENHANCE YOUR WORK IN REAL ESTATE? With a previous background as an escrow officer for 10 years, Harriet has unparalleled insight into the escrow process and real estate finance with top-notch negotiation skills. Jenny’s prior professional background in entertainment and politics provides a unique skill set that translates directly to the real estate landscape with expert negotiation and communication assets. These diverse professional backgrounds offer knowledge, perspective and imagination where clients glean the benefits.

WHAT IS YOUR TEAM KNOWN FOR? We prioritize quality over quantity in order to best serve our clients.

We understand their needs in order to exceed expectations. We are closers and creative negotiators. Every deal should be a winwin for the seller and buyer, and we are known for crafting unique deals. We stand by our reputation as smart, savvy and energetic businesswomen who prioritize people and make deals happen.

WHAT SETS YOU APART FROM YOUR PEERS? No sugarcoating. We tell you like it is. We do not inflate prices to get a listing. We provide research, stats and facts on pricing and marketing so sellers get the best possible price in the shortest time to avoid having listings that sit on the market or experience multiple reductions, which ultimately can diminish the final sales price.

We are transparent and communicative, and we tenaciously prioritize our clients’ needs to get the deal done. We utilize our vast network of professionals, our sphere of influence and every available resource to target the buyer for our listings and find the ideal houses for our clients. And there are no surprises. We spearhead every detail to prepare a house for market, and we are reachable 24/7 for our clients. Overall we offer top-notch service and creative negotiating; we close escrows expeditiously; and we deliver sparkling dream-home keys to our clients!

WHAT GIVES YOUR BROKERAGE FIRM A COMPETITIVE EDGE? It is impossible for other firms to compete with Warren Buffett— the visionary leader of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, who affords us the best in support, resources, technology, advertising, in-house legal teams and so much more. His investing skills and business acumen are unmatched. He shared one of his secrets to success: "I learned to go into business only with people whom I like, trust and admire." Warren trusts us, and so can you.

WHY IS WORKING WITH A TEAM BENEFICIAL? Each member of our team brings distinct qualities and professional acumen that directly benefit our clients. With experience and tenacity, all matters are handled and resolved with great knowledge and expertise. Nothing falls through the cracks. We are meticulous, proactive and determined to seamlessly manage our clients’ needs to ensure smooth, successful transactions.

IS STAGING A HOME WORTH THE COST? A resounding yes! Our sellers never regret presenting a home in the most attractive way to build on buyers’ desire and imagination to make this home their own. We work with clients on every detail before bringing a home to market, and we offer vendors who are creative, talented and cost-effective. This investment often translates to higher sale prices. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices also offers a concierge service for cosmetic updates and renovation projects; the cost can be deducted at closing. These investments can maximize a home’s value and minimize its time on the market.

WHAT IMPACT HAS SOCIAL MEDIA HAD ON YOUR BUSINESS? Social media is an exciting, booming tool that successfully garners attention and traction for our clients with high-quality, inventive and well-produced videos, reels, posts and stories for all social media outlets. Our multitiered marketing strategies enable our clients to boldly stand out to an expansive customer base.

Jenny uses her producing skills and creative storytelling to build powerful narratives and attention-grabbing pieces that assist in capturing buyers’ attention and selling homes. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices also provides access to world-class marketing tools.

Disclaimer: ©2024 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties is a member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates LLC. BHHS and the BHHS symbol are registered service marks of Columbia Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate.

14141 VENTURA BLVD., SUITE 8, SHERMAN OAKS | 818-380-2151 16810 VENTURA BLVD, ENCINO | 818-601-8663 | HARRIETCAMERON.COM | JENNYBIRCHFIELD.COM @HARRIETCAMERONREALESTATE | @JENNYBIRCHFIELDREALESTATE | DRE #00675971, 02070744

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PHOTOGRAPHED BY JEFFREY FITERMAN

H

arriet Cameron has worked in the real estate industry for 40+ years and helms the Harriet Cameron Group, which includes her associate, Jenny Birchfield-Eick, agent Doris Bonnelly and Jenny’s assistant, Julia Constanza. Harriet joined what is now Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices in 2002, and Jenny joined the agency in 2018. The team, which boasts more than $1.625 billion in residential sales, consistently achieves top honors and industry accolades for outstanding sales production.

Jenny, Harriet & Cooper

RE AL ESTATE

CAROL WOLFE Broker Associate, Rodeo Realty

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE POTENTIAL CLIENTS TO KNOW ABOUT YOU? I will take good care of them; they have chosen the best agent in the area. I will work relentlessly to make sure my clients get the best possible results. My slogan is “Nobody Does It Better.” For five decades, I have been striving to provide clients with an unparalleled level of service based on integrity, honesty and a commitment to excellence.

WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO BE THE BEST IN THE REAL ESTATE BUSINESS? What I bring to the table is outstanding client representation, detailed market knowledge and high-tech marketing solutions. I have always been on the cutting edge of technology. I am very good at negotiating the best price for my clients and great at problem-solving.

HOW DO YOU HELP CLIENTS BEAT THE COMPETITION? My strong reputation means that I am viewed as a top professional who will make sure the sale goes through. Other agents like to work with me for that reason. Sellers know that my marketing program is far superior. Many of my sales are homes previously listed with another agent. When I take over the listing and implement my marketing program, the property sells. I have strong negotiation skills, tools and resources to achieve the best results. Many of my clients are referred by business managers, attorneys, CPAs, real estate agents and past clients.

WHAT DO CLIENTS SAY ABOUT YOU? “It was clear from our first conversation that you were the SME (subject matter expert) in our area and went about your business with focus and professionalism. Within the week we decided to market our property, your photo crew had captured pictures and a drone’s-eye view, printed brochures in stunning color and posted them all to social media. Your long professional relationship with

the buyer’s broker was key to engineering the sale. Throughout the process you told us not what we wanted hear but what we needed to know. Sixty days from our listing date the movers were packing the last of our belongings, and we bid our home of 35 years a fond farewell. Bravo!”

— David and Nancy Meshulam “We want to thank you for the wonderful job you did representing us on our home sale. Your years of experience, depth of knowledge and hard work got us to the finish line. You were always very responsive—even while on vacation. We can’t imagine using any other Realtor in the San Fernando Valley. We are sure that no one else would have gotten us the same results.”

— Alan Jones and Tim Lignoul “We have lived in Encino for the past 27 years. We knew of Carol Wolfe by reputation. She has the reputation of selling homes that other agents could not sell. Carol was extremely professional, knowledgeable and efficient in selling our home. She went above and beyond on every level. She had wonderful sources to recommend to make our move easier. Carol was always there to answer questions and to calm our nerves. We knew we were in very good hands. We highly recommend Carol Wolfe if you are looking for a Realtor to sell your home.”

— Janie and Aaron Zimmer “My escrow just closed today, and I am very pleased with how Carol handled the entire process. We had multiple offers, and we accepted a cash offer at $200,000 over the list price. The house sold in two days! The escrow process was a breeze, and all details were handled in a professional and efficient manner. I highly recommend Carol if you need a real estate agent to sell your property.”

— Mike Kluba “I enthusiastically recommend Carol Wolfe as an outstanding real estate professional. I had the privilege of working with her in selling my home, and I cannot speak highly enough of her skills, dedication and expertise. Carol is not just a real estate agent; she is a true strategic partner. Her commitment to achieving the best possible results for her clients is evident from the very beginning of the process. Throughout the entire journey, she was consistently on top of every detail. Her communication skills are exceptional, ensuring that I was wellinformed at every stage of the selling process. Beyond her professional excellence, Carol is a pleasure to work with. Her friendly and approachable demeanor makes every interaction enjoyable. She genuinely cares about her clients’ needs and works tirelessly to meet them. If you are seeking a real estate professional who can deliver outstanding results while making the process enjoyable, Carol is the perfect choice.” — Kayling Gaver

17501 VENTURA BLVD., ENCINO | 818-285-3688 CAROLWOLFE.COM | CAROL@CAROLWOLFE.COM | DRE #00477745

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

PHOTOGRAPHED BY JEFFREY FITERMAN

T

his year Carol Wolfe proudly celebrates her 50-year anniversary in the real estate industry. Since 1974 she has assisted clients in buying and selling properties throughout the San Fernando Valley. She is a licensed broker, Certified Residential Specialist, e-PRO, architectural specialist and certified negotiator. In 2023 Carol had another record-breaking year as the #1 individual agent in the Encino office of Rodeo Realty and ranked among the top agents by The Wall Street Journal and RealTrends’ America’s Best Real Estate Professionals. Carol is an active member of the Encino/Sherman Oaks Chamber of Commerce and supports the local community.

RE AL ESTATE

CRAIG STRONG

Vice President, Luxury Home Sales, Craig Strong Group

C

raig Strong, a native New Yorker and Ithaca College graduate, rose to the position of vice president of manufacturing at Point Blank Body Armor. When he relocated to Los Angeles, he got involved in property investment and transitioned to the field of real estate. Craig has been an award-winning, top-producing local Realtor® for more than 25 years and is the founder of The Craig Strong Group under the umbrella of Compass. He has been a Toluca Lake resident for nearly two decades and has invested 16 years serving on the Greater Toluca Lake Neighborhood Council, as well as serving for years on the boards of the Toluca Lake Homeowners Association and the Toluca Lake Chamber of Commerce.

WHAT DIFFERENTIATES YOU FROM OTHERS IN THE REAL ESTATE INDUSTRY? Having spent over 25 years in real estate, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing a full spectrum of experiences—the highs, the lows and everything in between. It’s important to note that many agents in today’s real estate landscape have primarily operated in a robust market. This is precisely why, as the market undergoes shifts, it becomes paramount to select an agent with a wealth of experience— one who has weathered downturns and understands how to navigate challenging times. This expertise isn’t just beneficial during market fluctuations; it’s invaluable in the everyday workings of the industry. I am always 10 steps ahead, and that comes only from experience.

HOW DO YOU STAY INSPIRED AFTER WORKING IN REAL ESTATE FOR SO LONG? What makes this industry truly remarkable is the opportunity to connect with incredible individuals—people who genuinely value my assistance in either discovering their dream home or facilitating the sale of their most significant asset. What continues to astonish me is the formation of new friendships along this journey. It’s an incredible feeling when past clients refer me to others, and those newcomers have nothing but praise for their own experiences. Building these relationships and earning such positive endorsements is so rewarding!

HOW DO YOU BALANCE YOUR CAREER, PERSONAL LIFE AND PASSIONS? Balancing life in this field can be tough. What works for me is blending my passions into my career. For example, mixing my love for buying and fixing up homes with my job is a blast. Meeting clients on the golf course adds a personal touch and builds unique connections.

And let’s not forget the joy of catching up with old friends or potential clients over a martini. But truth be told, in this line of work it’s hard to keep these aspects completely separate—they tend to overlap.

WHAT LISTING ARE YOU EXCITED ABOUT? A magnificent residence on the lake. Several years ago, I had the pleasure of assisting my clients in acquiring this property, and they have since transformed it into one of the most stunning homes in the area. With breathtaking views of Toluca Lake, a state-of-the-art media room and many other exceptional features, this extraordinary property is now available for $15 million. For additional details, please visit our website at 10050TLA.com.

WHAT IS NEW AND EXCITING FOR YOU IN 2024?

I am absolutely thrilled to announce the official launch of my mentorship program: StrongMentorship.com. It’s an exhilarating opportunity to impart knowledge on excelling as a real estate agent and to see others succeed. This program has limited spots, and agents need to meet certain qualifications to participate. One of the unique aspects of this coaching and mentoring initiative is that you can start learning now and defer payment until later. We’re in it together! It’s an exciting journey we’re embarking on, and I’m looking forward to helping aspiring agents achieve their goals.

WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT LAST YEAR? As 2023 began, I found myself inundated with requests to revive the Toluca Lake Magical Holiday Parade—a long-standing tradition for decades that had to be paused due to mechanical and financial difficulties. When I decided to take on this responsibility, I was well aware that it would be a challenging endeavor. However, I assembled a team of remarkable individuals with diverse talents, skills and strong community support, which made my role more manageable.

The result was nothing short of a huge success, and the community was overwhelmed with excitement regarding the turnout. The parade unfolded on Christmas Eve and brought back the magic of the holiday season to Toluca Lake.

Would I undertake this task again in 2024? Without a doubt.

Being a part of this cherished tradition—one that brings joy to so many people—was an amazing experience. The continuous flow of gratitude and compliments serves as the driving force behind my commitment to upholding this tradition. I am immensely grateful to this community and feel truly fortunate to be part of it!

Disclaimer: Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only.

Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdraw without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate. Exact dimensions can be obtained by retaining the services of an architect or engineer. This is not intended to solicit property already listed.

10154 RIVERSIDE DR., TOLUCA LAKE | 818-930-4050 STRONGREALTOR.COM | @CRAIGSTRONGREALTOR | DRE #01450987

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RE AL ESTATE

DANIELLE PERETZ The Beverly Hills Estates

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE A CAREER IN REAL ESTATE? The sense of community. Real estate is one of the biggest financial decisions a person can make, and being a resource to guide people to their goals is very fulfilling.

WHY ARE YOU CONSIDERED A GO-TO PERSON IN THE COMMUNITY? Experience and resilience. My clients’ needs are extremely important to me. Understanding their needs creates a deeper relationship with them. After years of helping people buy and sell in certain communities, you know neighborhoods and the people in them intimately. This allows me to be a resource to future and former clients.

not consider yourself an expert. Every single deal in real estate is specific and unique; it is impossible to apply the same methods to each transaction and expect the same result. As a Realtor you are dealing with emotions, life savings, sentimental values and the dream of homeownership. Consider these facets of the job, and apply your broad range of skills accordingly.

WHAT CHALLENGES HAVE YOU FACED PROFESSIONALLY AS A WOMAN IN BUSINESS? As women, we all face the challenge of not being taken seriously— especially starting out. The best way to overcome it is by being assertive and tenacious, going after what your clients need and being unwavering in your pursuit.

WHAT PUTS A SPRING IN YOUR STEP AND KEEPS YOU FEELING ENERGIZED? My clients’ happiness and spending time with my family. I treat every transaction as if it were my very own and become personally invested in securing happiness for my clients. Coming home to my beautiful family gives me all the energy I need after a busy day. Having an intimate dinner with my supportive husband, our three beautiful children and our precious dog is the highlight of my day. I also enjoy traveling, volunteering with local schools and playing golf, and I support Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Valley Friendship Circle and families in need.

DESCRIBE YOUR LEADERSHIP STYLE. I pride myself on being a team player. Being honest and considerate, motivated yet humble, and exercising patience and dedication provides my team with the necessary skills to succeed. Being supportive and available 100% of the time to my client is what I aim for, and I understand that to do that, I need open communication with my team. Being a team player is everything!

TAKE A RISK OR PLAY IT SAFE IN REAL ESTATE? There is truly a balance of both in every major decision I make. I live by the saying “high risk, high reward” and challenge myself to apply not only sentimental valuation but also concrete evidence to support my decision. In order to achieve the lifestyle you dream of, taking calculated risks is necessary. There is always something to lose—money, time—but it’s imperative to consider how much there is to gain.

WHAT DO CLIENTS SAY ABOUT YOU? “Danielle Peretz is simply the best! Her professionalism, knowledge, skills, character, personality and compassion turned our experience of buying our home into the sweetest of all!”

— M. Hirsch

WHAT IS YOUR ADVICE FOR SOMEONE JUST STARTING OUT IN YOUR LINE OF WORK? Embody the role of a lifelong student. Always be ready to learn from experiences. Question the “experts.” Be open to change.

Expose yourself to new ideas. Learn new skills. Never be satisfied with what you think you know, and more importantly, do

“Danielle was the listing agent for my newly built house, and she was able to sell my house within no time and create a new—and the highest—comp in the neighborhood. She’s very professional and kind, and she invests time, money and knowledge into her work. I highly recommend anybody who is looking for a listing agent to work with her.”

— Olive

“Danielle Peretz is a real estate professional! We can’t recommend her highly enough. She is a quality agent with class and designer touch!”

— K. Bernstein

8878 W. SUNSET BLVD., WEST HOLLYWOOD | 818-644-1477 | DANIELLEPERETZ.COM | DRE #01897529

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

PHOTOGRAPHED BY SHANE O'DONNELL

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ealtor® and real estate developer Danielle Peretz has lived and worked in Studio City for more than 20 years and oversees The Peretz Group. She has bought, sold and renovated countless homes while providing real estate investment services for builders and luxury developers and assisting buyers and sellers across Los Angeles.

Danielle joined The Beverly Hills Estates in 2022 after working for years with The Agency, where she ranked in the top 1% of agents in the Valley. She received the 2019 and 2020 MVP awards, the 2021 Top Agent award, and the 2020 and 2021 Chairman award.

Founded in 2020, The Beverly Hills Estates is a real estate brokerage that provides its client base of celebrities, Fortune 500 executives and government officials with door-to-door, white-glove concierge service. It also provides a private members club for all things lifestyle: art, design, construction, architecture and wellness. The firm’s agents represent buyers and sellers from Malibu, Trousdale Estates, Los Feliz and the Valley.

RE AL ESTATE

MARLENE GEIBELSON & DAYNA CAMPBELL Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

R

ealtors® Marlene Geibelson and Dayna Campbell, both natives of the San Fernando Valley, have a combined 42 years of experience working in real estate. Previously, Marlene worked as a teacher with the Los Angeles Unified School District.

She has been the recipient of several Top Producer awards and served as a member of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices’ international President’s Circle—ranking among the top 10% of sales associates. Both Marlene and Dayna have achieved the Luxury Specialist designation.

Dayna worked for years in the entertainment industry and began selling real estate in 2015. She recently received the National Association of Realtors’ GREEN designation.

WHAT IS NEW FOR YOUR BUSINESS IN 2024?

In February, we are listing the first Phius-certified passive home to be sold in Los Angeles. Phius is a nonprofit organization committed to eliminating carbon emissions and making high-performance passive building the mainstream market standard. This new-construction house will meet or exceed the stringent standards for creating a hypoallergenic living environment and will ultimately achieve net-zero energy consumption. Utilizing its solar panel system, the home will generate more electricity than required to operate and can run essentially off-grid. It’s an incredible concept to see in Studio City for the first time and a building technique we wholeheartedly believe can and should change the way builders develop/construct new projects. We will list a second project later this year in Sherman Oaks using these same principles.

Disclaimer: ©2024 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties is a member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates LLC.

16810 VENTURA BLVD., ENCINO | 818-606-8820, 818-634-9404 | MDHOMESLA.COM @M_D_HOMES | DRE # 01078441, 01969328

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

PHOTOGRAPHED BY SHANE O'DONNELL

HOW DO YOU MEET CLIENTS’ NEEDS? We choose to operate as a small team. We believe this cultivates personal relationships with our clients that would not be possible if a large group was managing the transaction. We are involved down to the smallest details—generating genuine trust with our clients. Our clients know they will always see one or both of us at every showing and inspection. We are hands-ON. Also, we have been working to create awareness around a new way of building homes. We are experts that homebuyers seek out when they want a cleaner, better way to live. We help them understand and adopt “green” efforts when purchasing their home.

Learn more about our thriving transitional kindergarten through eight grade educational community.

SCHEDULE YOUR PRIVATE TOUR HERE!

discover ventura blvd on instagram @OURVENTURABLVD

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Discover your picture-perfect wedding with the Pacific Ocean as your backdrop.

| T E R RA N E A CO M | T E R RA N E A

WEDDINGS

Dream Day FROM LOCATION TO INVITATIONS, IN THIS SPECIAL SECTION WE SHARE PRO TIPS AND CREATIVE IDEAS FOR A WEDDING THAT WOWS.

l t c Perfe y 52 |

d e n n P la AN ENCINO NATIVE RETURNS HOME FOR HER WEDDING—A METICULOUSLY DESIGNED FALL EVENT AS HEARTFELT AS IT WAS BEAUTIFUL. Written by Chelsee Lowe | Photographed by Heirlume Photography

Though Rachel Witenstein was

attached to a small cardboard square. The square is

born and raised in Encino—and her

slipped into the groom’s pocket with the flowers peeking

parents, Julie and Greg Pittler, still

out. For photos, Heirlume Photography came on board.

“Documenting our day was the most important

reside there—neither she nor her

thing,” Rachel says. “My grandmother is a professional

family had heard of Quail Ranch, a

photographer, so I’ve grown up with a camera at all

hidden gem in Simi Valley. But after

events and family gatherings. We loved that Heirlume

Rachel got engaged, Julie discovered the private estate while searching for a wedding venue for her daughter.

has two lead photographers, so we felt confident that they would be able to capture both myself and Matthew throughout the event—to get that 360-degree view.”

With the visual aspects of the event in order, Matthew and Rachel focused on their next big goal: to

With 70 acres of avocado and citrus trees, extensive

throw an unforgettable party, complete with top-notch

gardens and lawns, and whimsical, meandering paths

food, and music that would keep more than 200 guests

connecting them, Quail Ranch is immersed in natural

on the outdoor dance floor. Quail Ranch’s preferred cu-

beauty. Once the couple visited the venue, it immedi-

linary vendor, Command Performance Catering Group,

ately struck a chord with Rachel, a pediatric language

was chosen to serve tray-passed hors d’oeuvres, in-

pathologist, as well as her fiancé, Matthew Witenstein,

cluding short rib on potato pancake with crème fraîche.

a business consultant. “I was walking around the

The cocktail hour included two stationary charcuterie

ranch, knowing I loved it,” Rachel recalled. “Then

tables. Later, at the reception, guests enjoyed a sit-

Matthew looked at me, pulled me aside, and said, ‘This

down feast that included rosemary-flecked filet mignon

is it.’”

with cognac demi-glace and crispy onion.

The college sweethearts made a plan to marry in

“Our catering company crushed it, from the cocktail

October 2023, and the ranch became their canvas on

hour bites to the full dinner,” Matthew said. “We loved

which to paint. Annette Kirkhuff of Wheat & Honey

each bite we took, and our guests raved for weeks about

Events came on board to help the bride and groom

how delicious everything was.”

bring their vision to life.

and three live musicians on electric violin, saxophone

call romantic garden. Quail Ranch is so beautiful that

and bongos; the musicians played along with the DJ’s

you don’t need to add much. It’s all there naturally. Our

tracks. Rachel shares that the entertainment worked

job as the event planner was to enhance that natural

wonderfully for “getting the crowd riled up.” Turns

beauty with items like florals, candles and stands to

out the performers were also skilled at rolling with

create a beautiful dessert display,” shares Annette.

the punches.

The first order of business was florals. The couple

“We blew a fuse three times, and I remember the

hired Unique Floral Designs to help enhance the set-

first time so well,” the bride recalls. “We were in the

ting with a “muted fall” palette. The chuppah they

middle of the dance floor, with guests all around us,

were married under was adorned with white roses and

and the music just cut. But we kept dancing to ‘Baby

hydrangeas, eucalyptus, and the occasional red or ochre

Got Back’—which I happen to know every word of—

rose. Quicksand roses—with champagne, pink and

and the live musicians came out and kept us going.”

lavender undertones—and white dahlias were used in

54 |

Second Song handled the music, comprising a DJ

“Rachel and Matthew’s wedding design was what I

While Rachel and Matthew had their guests’ expe-

the bride’s bouquet. In lieu of a traditional boutonniere,

rience top of mind, for them, personal touches were

Matthew wore a “living” pocket square, real flowers

paramount. In honor of their Jewish heritage, they

| 55

had a semiprivate ceremony minutes before the main ceremony, with just parents, grandparents and bridal party in attendance. A rabbi close to the bride’s family led the ketubah ceremony, marrying the couple under Jewish law.

“It was very sentimental, and everyone was in tears,” Rachel says. “We were technically married, and then it was off to the ceremony with our guests.”

For dessert, another personal decision. “Matthew and I didn’t want to do a formal cake cutting, but we did end up having a small cake from Skiff’s Cakes in Simi Valley that we served guests later in the night,” Rachel notes.

Laughter, more tears and plenty of dancing commenced, and the newlyweds left Quail Ranch happy to have made this cherished memory near Rachel’s childhood home. They now live in Phoenix, Matthew’s hometown.

“I look back and I see how great it was to grow up here,” Rachel said. “It will always be home to me. And who knows? Maybe one day we’ll be back.” ■

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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

WHAT’S OLD IS NEW AGAIN

B

uilt in 1969, Sheraton Universal is the crown jewel of the Hollywood Hills and a picture-perfect location for weddings. Over the years, the hotel has housed countless guests and special gatherings. It boasts a storied history similar to that of the film studio nearby and is a symbol of classic elegance and modern luxury.

Whether you choose a grand celebration or an intimate gathering for your nuptials, Sheraton Universal offers a range of versatile, tasteful event spaces. From initial planning stages through the big day itself, Sheraton Universal pays meticulous attention to detail—including exemplary catering services.

Taking what was old and making it new again, the hotel recently completed a million-dollar event room renovation, seamlessly blending classic style and exquisite comfort. This complete refresh of the space makes Sheraton Universal an idyllic setting for your wedding and reception.

Celebrate the big moments of your life at this iconic institution in the heart of the entertainment industry.

PHOTOGRAPHED BY MOOSHO KHACHIKYAN & ALVIS PHAM

SHERATON UNIVERSAL 333 UNIVERSAL HOLLYWOOD DR., UNIVERSAL CITY 818-509-2726 | SHERATONUNIVERSAL.COM @SHERATONUNIVERSAL

WEDDING SPOTLIGHT

4 1

3

Earthy Tokens

2

FROM STONE TO GLASS, CAPTIVATING WEDDING GIFTS MADE FROM NATURAL MATERIALS.

1. Marble chess set, $150; available at The Collective in Woodland Hills at the Valley Country Mart, thecollectiveshop.net

2. Harland bookends in alabaster, $385; available at SoHo Home in West Hollywood, sohohome.com

3. Porcelain and bronze candelabra features hand-painted birds and flowers on solid bronze branch, $1,095; thehuntingtonstore.org

4. Ché Placemats in a pearl cracked leather with solid nickel studs. Set of 2, $440; available at Calleen Cordero in Studio City, calleencordero.com

5. Idyllia flower crystal figurine, $195 (small) and $480 (large); available at Swarovski at Westfield Topanga, swarovski.com

58 |

5

Destination: Honeymoon FROM THE SOUTH PACIFIC TO NORTHERN CALIFORNIA, FIVE WORLD-CLASS, ROMANTIC DESTINATIONS FOR A MEMORABLE HONEYMOON. Written by Maira Suro

The term “honeymoon” comes from the idea that the first month of marriage is the sweetest. It’s a time to celebrate your love and experience the thrill of calling your sweetheart “husband” or “wife” for the first time.

Whether you choose lazy days on a beach or exploring hand-in-hand the cobblestoned streets of a medieval town, it’s an opportunity to create a romantic memory to last a lifetime. Here are five outstanding options sure to kick off married life on a glorious note.

KATIKIES HOTEL Santorini, Greece Katikies Hotel on the island of Santorini sits high atop the cliffs in the seaside town of Oia. This vibey hotel, where guests must be 13+ in age, offers 40 suites, a spa, and a restaurant helmed by celebrated Greek-Italian chef Ettore Botrini. The hotel seems to float on air with jaw-dropping views from the heated infinity pool. A variety of beach options are a 10-minute drive away, and private boat tours can be arranged. In the late afternoon, the pool area lights up with a groovy playlist that goes perfectly with a glass of local Assyrtiko wine, as you prepare for the daily ritual of watching the spectacular sunset. The rooms are simple but spacious, with private verandas. A night on the town is an easy walk from the hotel, where rooftop bars invite you to dance the night away. katikies.com

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WAKAYA CLUB & SPA Fiji Wakaya Club & Spa is an ultra luxurious hideaway floating in the middle of the South Pacific. The resort is located on a private island, a 45-minute flight from the island of Fiji, courtesy of Wakaya’s private plane.

Privacy is guaranteed, with just 10 beachfront suites, plus a three-bedroom estate perched high up on the hill. White-sand beaches, vibrant coral reefs and lush tropical forests surround this world-class diving paradise. There’s also a nine-hole golf course, tennis, yoga and a holistic spa that will leave you in bliss. Farm-totable Palm Grove restaurant, housed beneath an enormous palapa, offers an expansive menu. Bottom line: They’ll make whatever you want. In addition, there’s a casual beach dining option, and uber romantic private picnics, where guests are whisked off to a private beach and left with a walkie-talkie to call for a pickup. Our picnic basket included lobster, mango salsa and champagne. Not a bad way to spend an amorous afternoon. wakayaislandresort.com

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CHÂTEAU LA COSTE Provence, France If the European countryside is more your style, Château La Coste in Provence is a magnificent option, offering delicious cuisine, superb wine, impressive art and breathtaking vistas. The Provence region is so captivating that Cézanne, Van Gogh and Picasso featured it in many of their paintings. The hotel’s 28 villas share 600 acres with more than 30 outdoor art installations, allowing guests to experience their very own private, open-air museum. In addition, tours of the organic vineyard and wine tastings are offered, plus five restaurant choices. The suites are elegant and stocked with body products inspired by the surrounding nature. The scent of lavender entices throughout. To stay here feels like you are a guest at a grand private home rather than a hotel. Take a day trip to some of the nearby towns, including Arles with its Roman amphitheater and Frank Gehry tower. It’s hard to imagine a more romantic combination. chateau-la-coste.com

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BORGO SANTO PIETRO Tuscany, Italy Borgo Santo Pietro combines Old World rustic with five-star luxury in the heart of the Tuscan countryside. Part of the Relais & Chateaux resort group, this 300-acre property includes an organic farm, vineyard, stunning gardens and ponds. The resort, which was originally a private home, has an intimate vibe with rooms and suites located inside the main “farmhouse” building as well as scattered throughout the estate.

There are 22 bespoke villas and suites in all. Dining is exquisite, courtesy of two restaurants including the Saporium, which has earned a Michelin Green Star for its approach to sustainability. Fresh flowers from the estate’s gardens are placed in vases throughout. Take a class at the resort’s cooking school or luxuriate at the full-service spa. Feeling indulgent? Charter the Borgo’s private yacht for a cruise along the Mediterranean. borgosantopietro.com

POST RANCH INN Big Sur, California Looking to stay closer to home? Head up California’s Big Sur coast to the Post Ranch Inn, where luxury meets Mother Nature. The hotel’s high-end accommodations, 40 rooms in all, blend beautifully with its surroundings, such as clifftop houses with panoramic ocean views and tree houses nestled in mature pines. The inn’s Zen vibe is unparalleled, with guided hiking, yoga and medi-

Handmade agnolotti & garden squash served at the Post Ranch Inn. Above: view from the balcony of a suite at the inn.

tation just a few of the daily activities. The property has two therapeutic, heated infinity pools, including a clifftop pool overlooking the Pacific. The farm-totable Sierra Mar restaurant offers wine tastings from a 3,200-bottle cellar. An added bonus: Carmel-by-theSea, filled with galleries and restaurants and boutiques, is less than an hour away by car. postranchinn.com ■

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To-Do’s Before “I Do” FROM FOOD TO PHOTOS, WEDDING PLANNER JULIE PRYOR OF PRYOR EVENTS OFFERS ADVICE ON PULLING OFF A MEMORABLE, MEANINGFUL WEDDING.

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LA-based wedding and event planner Julie Pryor of

Are people still doing the sign-in book at the reception?

Pryor Events has been coordinating weddings and

A fun alternative to the traditional sign-in book is to

events for over 20 years in Southern California and

display a custom book of pictures from the engage-

around the world. She’s handled special occasions for

ment shoot. The photo are printed in the book, leaving

Felicity Huffman, Ricki Lake and Quincy Jones, among

blank spaces for the guests to sign. The couple then has

other celebrities. Here VB editor Linda Grasso queries

a lovely coffee table book of beautiful photos combined

Julie about how to put on a magical wedding that will

with heartfelt notes from their guests. Make sure to use

provide memories to last a lifetime.

archival pens so that the ink will last, and have extra pens on hand.

To me, the most meaningful weddings are when the bride and groom integrate personal touches. It just feels like

What traditional wedding practices have gone out the

them. Advice?

window, like announcing the bride, groom and wedding

When guests enter a wedding they should think that

party at the beginning of the reception?

it reflects the bride and groom’s personality. I tell the

Others rarely seen nowadays include receiving lines,

couples we work with that their guests should not walk

the last dance and saving the cake top. However, some

in and think “Julie Pryor planned this wedding.” As far

traditions live on, such as the father-daughter dance

as what is possible, I tell couples, “As long as it’s legal,

and the cutting of the wedding cake.

we can make it happen.” That could mean having the person who introduced you officiate, or having your

Let’s talk reception food. How important is it to incorporate

college band serenade guests at cocktail hour, or flying

gluten-free, lactose-free and vegan dishes?

in dessert from the little bakery you visited on your

It is important to have vegetarian, vegan and gluten-

first getaway together.

free dining options for cocktail hour and the meal.

We always alert the catering team of any known al-

Let’s discuss reception dining options: buffet table versus

lergies in advance. If you don’t know about specific

sit-down dinner versus grazing stations.

allergies in advance, your guests should alert the wait

Whether to offer a fully served meal, have stations,

staff. It’s important to remember that most items can

or perhaps a hybrid of the two, is a personal decision.

come into cross-contamination in the kitchen. Make

My advice: Do research on each venue you are con-

sure that waiters know all of the ingredients in the

sidering. Some locations do one type of service better

tray-passed appetizers.

than another, and sometimes their kitchens are more equipped for one style versus the other. Costs are typi-

If you have a large family and a large bridal party,

cally similar.

how does one whittle down the guest list for the rehearsal dinner?

Regarding bride’s bouquets, I’m seeing everything these

One way to get around the huge rehearsal dinner, which

days—from a small sprig of wildflowers to long-stemmed

can cost nearly as much as a wedding, is to plan an

calla lilies. Can you offer some parameters?

intimate dinner for your immediate family and wedding

The bouquet should be in line with the bride’s stature.

party followed by a large get-together—aka welcome

A petite bride will look silly with a huge bouquet. The

party—of all guests, or the guests who have come in

wedding gown will also play a part in the design of the

from out of town. This can be a dessert-and-cham-

bouquet. While I love colorful weddings, I am partial to

pagne party, a cocktail party or a dive-in movie and

a classic white bouquet. A nice touch: Incorporate one

popcorn night.

of the bride’s flowers into the groom’s boutonniere.

| 65

wedding party with the couple. This makes the whole day go smoother, while allowing couples to spend more time with their guests.

The decibel level of the music is always a debate. Older people often complain that the music is too loud. But younger people love to rock out. What to do here?

Keep the music at background level during dinner so that guests can hear one another. After dinner, it’s time to dance and have fun. I keep earplugs on hand for guests who are not fond of loud music. ■

Black-tie used to mean men wore black ties and women full-length gowns. But it seems like this has changed. Can “black tie” ever mean elegant dark suit and tie for men, and cocktail length dress for women?

Traditionally it still dictates tuxedoes for gentlemen and long gowns for women. Some of our clients get creative in their wording, especially for destination celebrations, i.e., Island Chic, Aloha Casual, California Casual, Fancy Ranch, Cocktail Chic. If you decide on one of those creative dress codes, do offer on your wedding website a description of exactly what that means.

I was just at a wedding and the couple spent more than three hours—before, during and after the reception—taking pictures. Guests were constantly asking, “Where are Diane and Greg?” The answer was “They’re taking pictures!” I wanted to find them and whisper in their ear: “Forget about it! You’ll pick one or two to display in your home and the rest will sit in an album over the years getting dusty. Go enjoy your party!” Thoughts?

We encourage our brides and grooms to do a “first look” with their photographer before their ceremony.

This is typically a romantic and special time for the bride and groom to spend together. After that session, the photographer takes pictures of the family and the

66 |

WEDDING SHOWCASE

BE PART OF OUR FALL WEDDING SECTION IN OUR AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2024 ISSUE

Questions? Please contact Jill Epstein at 213-309-0052 or jill.epstein@thegoldenstatecompany.com

RIZ TRANSPORTATION SERVICES Need a wedding limo for the bridal party or a shuttle for your guests? Riz Transportation Services provides safe, reliable services at affordable rates. This premier transportation company features a fleet of more than 25 new, luxury vehicles and drivers who are friendly, highly experienced, and fully licensed and insured. Customer service is Riz Transportation’s #1 priority. They go above and beyond to make sure your experience is pleasant and memorable—from the booking process to the big day!

20600 Ventura Blvd., Suite 2449, Woodland Hills 818-667-8617 riztransportation.com info@riztransportation.com @riztransportation

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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WEDDING SHOWCASE

BELLE OF THE BALL A CHERISHED FAMILY LEGACY ENDURES AT TWO BRIDAL BOUTIQUES. Lisa Litt’s parents opened a small shop for her grandmother Lili in 1958, and soon it became a Los Angeles institution for brides.

Lisa has added modern touches—focusing on new designers and the latest trends—while maintaining the warm, welcoming ambience her family’s shop has always been known for. She also owns Della Curva, a plus-size bridal salon upstairs from Lili Bridals.

With gorgeous gowns for brides and their mothers, both boutiques are certain to become a special part of your cherished memories.

Lili Bridals | 18663 Ventura Blvd., Tarzana 818-774-9700 | lilibridals.com | @lilibridals

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

WEDDING SHOWCASE

THE SECRET GARDEN LUXURIATE IN PARADISE FOR YOUR DREAM WEDDING. Eden Gardens is a 4-acre wedding and event venue home to exotic birds, lush landscaping, meandering pathways, exceptional vistas, babbling brooks and cozy nooks—a true standout for your wedding locale. Enjoy the large bridal cottage, brand-new groom’s tiny home, lake with koi fish and fountains, and pavilion and tenting options for inclement weather. An event coordinator will work with you from initial contact to the big day, ensuring a stress-free celebration in a welcoming wonderland.

PHOTOGRAPHED BY LAURA NGUYEN (CEREMONY), LOVING LENS (BRIDE & GROOM), ONE STORY WEDDINGS (RECEPTION)

Eden Gardens 3900 Brennan Rd., Moorpark 805-243-9424 | @edengardensvenue edengardensweddings.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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WEDDING SHOWCASE

THE FASHION CONCIERGE CREATING BEAUTIFUL CELEBRATIONS FROM HEAD TO TOE. A full-service bridal boutique, True Romance by Orsolina ensures that every bride looks beautiful and feels special. Owner Orsolina is an in-demand master seamstress with more than 35 years of experience. She creates unique, custom gowns with exclusive fabrics and laces from Italy, France and Switzerland. She also remakes vintage dresses and provides alterations. The store carries dresses and accessories, and Orsolina’s on-site services include dressing the bride and the entire wedding party on the big day.

True Romance by Orsolina | 153 S. Robertson Blvd., Beverly Hills 424-332-2702 | 626-664-9588 | @trueromancebyorsolina

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

WEDDING SHOWCASE

A DREAM COME TRUE HOST A DESTINATION WEDDING IN THE HEART OF THE SAN FERNANDO VALLEY. Transport your wedding guests to a coastal European retreat by hosting your bridal shower, bachelor party, rehearsal dinner or reception at Casaléna. Boasting a menu of Mediterranean flavors, Casaléna dazzles with unexpected touches like specialized cocktail menus, late-night bites and themed rehearsal dinners to set the tone for your wedding day. With a variety of event spaces and an in-house events team offering unparalleled service, this West Valley restaurant specializes in personalized, delightful celebrations.

Casaléna | 22160 Ventura Blvd., Woodland Hills 818-704-1185 | casalena.la | @casalena.la

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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WEDDING SHOWCASE

CAPTURING CELEBRATED MOMENTS CELEBRITY PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHER PUTS YOUR LOVE IN THE SPOTLIGHT. Renowned for her signature portraits, masterful use of light and artful hand at retouching, Michelle Day has been a well-kept industry secret for over three decades. Her celebrity portraits have been published worldwide, and her easygoing style makes her a favorite for weddings. Intuitive and instinctive, Michelle captures the subtleties in every intimate, candid moment. Let one of Hollywood’s elite photojournalists bring your special day to life with authentic, gorgeous images that will be a timeless portrait of your journey of love.

Michelle Day Weddings 323-314-5555 michelledayweddings.com

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

WEDDING SHOWCASE

PIXEL PERFECT PHOTOS TO SHARE THE LOVE. Social Photo Events is a concierge photo service that creates bespoke, upscale experiences for special occasions—from exclusive event coverage to trendy photo booths. Captivate and engage your guests with the latest in imaging technology, including AI portraiture and flawless glam filters. Under the creative direction of veteran celebrity photographer Rupert Thorpe, Social Photo Events is passionate about impeccable quality and superior photography. Let his experienced team capture the best moments of your unforgettable day!

Social Photo Events | Los Angeles | 213-705-7090 socialphotoevents.com | @socialphotoevents

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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Central Valley

HOME

Take Flight FROM CHIC BACKYARDS TO COZY INTERIORS, IN THIS SPECIAL SECTION, WE CELEBRATE ALL THINGS HOME. FOR MORE ON THIS REIMAGINED ENCINO ABODE, TURN THE PAGE.

76 |

CHANGING

VIEWS A COUPLE TRANSFORMS A NONDESCRIPT STRUCTURE IN THE ENCINO HILLS INTO A MODERN HOME THAT HAS EVOLVED ALONG WITH THEIR FAMILY. Written by Linda Grasso | Photographed by Shane O’Donnell

| 77

In 2011 Marissa and Nick Nadjarian were living in the hills of Studio City.

“It was a three-story home on a cliff with a beautiful view.” They might have stayed there, but Marissa was pregnant, and they didn’t think the home would work with a toddler.

The couple, who met as students at Campbell Hall, started exploring options and ultimately discovered a one-story home in Encino on a quiet cul-de-sac. “It was a 1956 box—what I call mid-century ugly,” jokes Nick. “But it had good bones.”

Nick, who owns an energy company, had the perfect person to help him renovate the home: longtime friend Arin Zarookian. Another Valley native, he had just made a career pivot from mortgage broker to architect. “I basically gave Arin his first big job with this house,” says Nick. “He is an artist at his core. I knew that together we could do it.”

Nick had some experience flipping spec homes, so the two decided to forgo hiring a contractor and do the work themselves—even though the project was complex. “Essentially, we stripped the house down to its bare structure,” says Arin.

The most ambitious undertaking: extending the backyard by 10 feet, which involved installing pylons and adding tons of soil. “Out of everything we did back then, it was the best implementation we made. Our two kids (Simone, 11 and Claire, 7) are out there playing all the time,” notes Nick.

78 |

Dramatic low-hanging glass pendant lights are a cornerstone of the sitting area at the entry, which “look so pretty at sunset when we turn them on,” says Marissa.

| 79

The new plans revolved around an open floor plan, a design element that Arin always approaches with a

and bifold glass doors by Western Windows Systems

particular strategy. “With open floor plans, there is this

were installed along the view-facing exterior wall.

tendency among architects to create a giant great room

Thus ended phase one of the remodel. But as anyone

that ends up feeling like a warehouse. You lose the

with a family knows, living needs change through the

ability to give each individual space an identity and cre-

years. This became crystal clear to the Nadjarians in

ate opportunities for spontaneous experiences—wheth-

2021. “Our daughters were older, and we felt we could

er it’s guests enjoying a particular space during a party,

make some elevated changes. We wanted a cleaner

or one being used by the family on a cozy night. Each

look,” shares Marissa, who works as a consultant help-

space in the home is clearly delineated through a series

ing schools implement service programs that encourage

of steps, ceiling changes, cabinetry and see-through

kids to learn through philanthropy.

room dividers.”

80 |

main living area. The kitchen got a complete overhaul,

So the couple started making plans for phase two.

The entry was enhanced by adding a cedar ceiling

While the improvements were less structural this time,

and delineated from the main living area with a change

Arin reentered the picture to offer counsel and resources.

in flooring—concrete for the entry floors, wood for the

“We had a lot of conversations. He is very thoughtful

All the furniture in the sitting room is from Luminaire. The acrylic on canvas diptych is by Michael Gorman. Left: The dining room features a concrete table and walnut and black leather chairs. In lieu of art, the couple chose a striking Pleomele plant (native to Hawaii) to adorn a wall.

“WE HAD NO INTENTION OF DOING A PERIOD-ACCURATE MID-CENTURY MODERN,” EXPLAINS ARCHITECT ARIN ZAROOKIAN. “RATHER WE USED SOME OF THE HOME’S ORIGINAL FEATURES—LIKE THE ANGLED POSTS AT THE REAR FACADE—TO HELP INSPIRE THE DESIGN DIRECTION.” Xxxxxxx xxxxxxx xxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxx

xxxxxxx xxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxxx

x xxx xxxx xx x x xxxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxx x x xx xxxxxxx xxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxxx x xxx xxxx xx x x xxxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxx x x xxxx xxxxxxx xxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxxx x xxx xxxx xx x x xxxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxx x x xxxx xxxxxxx xxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxxx x xxx xxxx xx x x xxxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxx x x xxxx xxxxxxx xxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxxx x xxx xxxx xx x x xxxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxx x x xxxx xxxxxxx xxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxxx x xxx xxxx xx x x xxxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxx x x xxxx xxx

xxxx xxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxxx x

xxx xxxx xx x x xxxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxx x x xxxx xxxxxxx xxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxxx x xxx xxxx xx x x xxxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxx x x xxxx xxxxxxx xxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxxx x xxx xxxx xx x x xxxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxx x x xxxx xxxxxxx xxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxxx x xxx xxxx xx x x xxxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxx x x xxxx xxxxxxx xxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxxx x xxx xxxx xx x x xxxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxx x x xxxx xx

■

82 |

Xxxxxxx xxxxxxx xxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxx xxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxxx x xxx xxxx xx x x xxxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxx x x xx xxxxxxx xxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxxx x xxx xxxx xx x x xxxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxx x x xxxx xxxxxxx xxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxxx x xxx xxxx xx x x xxxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxx x x xxxx xxxxxxx xxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxxx x xxx xxxx xx x x xxxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxx x x xxxx xxxxxxx xxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxxx x xxx xxxx xx x x xxxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxx x x xxxx xxxxxxx xxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxxx x xxx xxxx xx x x xxxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxx x x xxxx xxx xxxx xxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxxx x xxx xxxx xx x x xxxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxx x x xxxx xxxxxxx xxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxxx x xxx xxxx xx x x xxxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxx x x xxxx xxxxxxx xxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxxx x xxx xxxx xx x x xxxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxx x x xxxx xxxxxxx xxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxxx x xxx xxxx xx x x xxxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxx x x xxxx xxxxxxx xxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxxx x xxx xxxx xx x x xxxx x x x xxxxxxxx x xxx x x xxxx xx

■

| 83

The Nadjarians with their daughters, Claire (left) and Simone. Below: The couple’s bedroom opens up to the verdant backyard.

The entire family participated in creating the painting above the bed; it was done at Meri Cherry in Encino.

84 |

and great at walking you through the options. I didn’t

The answer came about with a purchase. The

want to make changes without Arin’s yes,” says Nick.

couple fell in love with an oversized dual leath-

The carpet in all three bedrooms was removed and

er sectional sofa in a caramel nubuck hue from

wood floors were installed. The wood floors in the

Luminaire in Los Angeles. It was rugged yet sophis-

main living area were replaced to match the concrete

ticated—quintessentially “California casual.” The

in the entry. The dining room was relocated from a

rich, earthy sofa hue echoes the color palette in the

space off the entry to opposite the open kitchen, mak-

rest of the home.

ing it possible to enjoy the magnificent view through the glass sliders.

Grilling a sandwich outside on the back patio, Nick concurs that doing two home overhauls in 10 years

Marissa adds, “I love the natural light we get here,

was a lot. But he says it was worth it. “I just love it

and I enjoy the view from all the angles—even while

here. Look at this view! And with sidewalks and the

I’m doing the dishes,” she laughs.

fact that we are on a cul-de-sac, it really feels like a

Marissa points to the main living area as one of the

neighborhood.” ■

biggest design challenges. “It is angled and faces a fireplace with a TV over it. We wanted a combination of style and functionality. The debate was: How formal should we go here?”

| 85

ECO LANDSCAPE DESIGN & BUILD Jennifer & Brad Klein 818-518-9928 INFO@ECOLANDSCAPE.NET ECOLANDSCAPE.NET @ECOLANDSCAPELA

DESCRIBE YOUR IDEAL WORKING RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN YOU AND YOUR CLIENTS. Mutual respect, trust and clear communication create the most ideal working relationships with our clients and allow us to do our best work.

From setting a clear aesthetic and design direction during the design phase to communicating the small adjustments that inevitably need to be made during the build, we build a trust with each client that allows us to do what we do best. This is always the formula for the most successful working relationships and also the best results.

86 | 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

WHAT IS YOUR HALLMARK WHEN RENOVATING A LANDSCAPE? Eco Landscape’s signature style is modern simplicity in design, material palettes and plant selections. Limiting the number of different materials we use allows our landscapes to become visually relaxing and thoughtfully designed. Although it can be challenging at times, less is always more.

WHAT IS ECO LANDSCAPE’S SILVER BULLET? We have two! The first is the unique synergy between the designer and builder (who are married) and our crew, all of whom have been with us for 10+ years. Being a design-build firm allows us to design with the builder’s input and build with the designer’s guidance. Our crew understands our design vision, and they bring a level of expertise that improves every aspect of our installations.

The second is our ability to design and execute landscapes that not only bring to life our clients’ goals but also meet their budget expectations. There is nothing worse than a landscape design that never gets executed because it does not fit with the clients’ goals or budget. We strive to design landscapes that will get built and that people will enjoy for many years.

PHOTOGRAPHED BY INNIS CASEY

TELL US ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS. Eco Landscape is a full-service landscaping firm that brings 20+ years of custom design and installation experience to residential projects in Los Angeles and the San Fernando Valley.

Our mission is to collaborate with our clients from concept to completion, creating modern landscapes that complement and enhance their homes. We strive to create beautiful, functional and relaxing outdoor living spaces that inspire our clients to spend more time outside and provide them with a sanctuary away from everyday chaos. We specialize in drought-tolerant gardens that look beautiful year-round and are easy to maintain.

| DESIGN SHOWCASE 2024 |

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 | 87

Spring Into Action IF YOU WANT YOUR GARDEN TO LOOK STELLAR THIS SPRING, NOW IS THE TIME TO GET OUTSIDE. HERE WE SHARE A COMPREHENSIVE TO-DO LIST FOR THE VALLEY GARDENER. FEBRUARY Start prepping soil for March planting: Add compost, spread manure, start a compost heap. Tip: Buy the dualbatch compost tumbler from gardeners.com.

Control ant population on citrus trees. Cut off any branches that are touching the ground—they serve as highways to trees for pests. Tip: Don’t make your cuts too high; low hanging branches can protect the trunk from sunburn.

Control citrus pests. Look out for aphids and mealybugs (sooty mold on leaves) and woolly whitefly (fuzzy white residue on underside of leaves). Before resorting

If you haven’t cut back your roses yet, this is your last

to chemicals, clean your trees by spraying them with

chance (if you want to maximize summer blooms).

water and or an insecticidal soap with neem oil.

If you’ve had your irrigation system off, turn it on,

Tip: Make your own insecticide: 1 to 2 tablespoons dishwash-

watering roses regularly through summer. Fertilize,

ing liquid per gallon of water.

preferably before irrigation or a rain. Tip: Mark the date on your calendar so you can repeat the fertilization at approximately the same time next month.

Deadhead and feed cool-season annuals and perennials and cut back woody and overgrown perennials like Mexican sage. Tip: Give them a little fertilizer and a fresh layer of mulch to encourage new growth.

Toward the end of the month, look out for California poppies at the nursery. Tip: Consider planting the orange poppies with some purple Spanish lavender for a stunning combination.

For ambitious vegetable gardeners (and those who have time, energy and patience), start growing your own

88 |

Avoid the urge to buy those full-blooming, cool-season flowers like calendulas, Iceland poppies, pansies, snapdragons, primroses, stocks and violas. Plant now and you only have a two-month window to enjoy them.

Tip: Opt for warm-season flowers like sun-loving petunias, transplants from seeds. Plant cool-season veggies such

salvia and verbena. In semi shade, choose yarrow, coleus,

as peas, lettuce, carrots, radishes and kale. Tip: Leave

geranium, impatiens and verbena.

some space in between plants. When it comes time to plant warm-season veggie transplants, intersperse throughout.

Treat roses with commerical fungicide for rust and black spot treatments. Spray in early morning or in late

MARCH

evening and wear protective clothing. Tip: Try treating

Fertilize deciduous fruit and avocado trees, most or-

first with an organic homemade formula. There are dozens

namental trees, bushes, lawns and ground covers. Tip:

of recipes online with ingredients like seaweed concentrate,

Feed young avocado trees lightly; they can be damaged by too

nontoxic detergent and baking soda.

much nitrogen.

As soon as the threat of frost has passed, plant your Plant summer annuals and perennials, warm-season

summer vegetable garden. Tip: Wait until April to put

and cool-season lawns from seed, and warm-season

in the real heat lovers like eggplant and peppers. With the

vegetables. Tip: For trees, shrubs and ground covers, plant

slightest cold snap, they can shrivel up and die.

now or wait until the weather cools in fall.

When it comes to tomatoes, if you want quantity and Cut back bougainvillea, eliminating dead branches.

more of a sure thing, stick with standard hybrids like

Tip: Hold off pruning until you see growth resuming on the

Better Boy, Early Girl, Beefsteak, Sungold Cherry and

branches. This will help prevent you from snipping off buds

Celebrity. Heirloom varieties are generally less disease-

that will later provide glorious blooms.

resistant and provide a smaller crop.

Tip: Plant marigolds in between tomato transplant to repel insects. ■

| 89

ACTIVE 27429 Sea Vista Drive, Malibu, Offered at $5,995,000

ACTIVE

ACTIVE

4944 Ledge Avenue, Toluca Lake Offered at $1,795,000 or $9.500 / Month

541 N. Griffith Park Drive, Toluca Lake Offered at $1,995,000

ACTIVE 2924 W. Riverside Drive, Burbank (6 UNITS) Offered at $2,495,000

ACTIVE 4343 Forman Avenue, Toluca Lake Offered at $5,295,000

ACTIVE

ACTIVE

PENDING

516 N. Lincoln Street Burbank Offered at $1,895,000

10409 Riverside Drive, Unit 101 Toluca Lake Offered at $799,000

4638 Arcola Avenue Toluca Lake Offered at $2,650,000

PENDING 4649 Sancola Avenue Toluca Lake Offered at $2,495,000

CRAIG STRONG Vice President, Luxury Home Sales Lead Mentor & Coach Top 1% Nationwide #1 Individual Agent Companywide $1.4+ Billion in Total Sales Volume 818.930.4050 info@strongrealtor.com strongrealtor.com DRE # 01450987

SOLD 4301 Bergamo Drive, Encino Sold for $1,975,000

Compass does not guarantee the accuracy of square footage, lot size, or other information concerning the condition or features of the property provided by the seller or obtained from public records and other sources and the buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of that information. CalBRE 01450987

R E A L E S TAT E

Breathtaking Lake Views TOLUCA LAKE 6 BEDS | 10 BATHS | 8,386 SQFT | 19,399 SF LOT $15,000,000 CRAIG STRONG 818-930-4050 | DRE# 01450987

ANDREW MANNING | REALTOR®

NEWLY PRICED HOMES FOR THE NEW YEAR

YOUR HOME COULD BE PICTURED HERE NEXT MONTH!

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

SIGN UP FOR A COMPLIMENTARY MARKET ANALYSIS AND REAL ESTATE CONSULTATION!

DRE LIC. #00941825 (818) 380-2147 | andrew@andrewmanning.com | www.andrewmanning.com Instagram/TikTok: @andrewmanningre | Facebook: @andrewmanningrealestate

OVER $2.5 BILLION IN CAREER SALES

© 2024 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties (BHHSCP) is a member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates LLC. BHHS and the BHHS symbol are registered service marks of Columbia Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate. BHH Affiliates LLC and BHHSCP do not guarantee accuracy of all data including measurements, conditions, and features of property. Information is obtained from various sources and will not be verified by broker or MLS. Buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of that information.

Nobody does it better...

Fine Estates®

ACTIVE

NEW LISTING

SOLD

19324 Palomar Place, Tarzana $2,499,000 Stunning 4700+ sq. ft. Estate

4124 Witzel Drive, Sherman Oaks $1,499,000 Sherman Oaks View Fixer!

3719 Winford Drive, Tarzana $4,225,000 Mulholland Park - Largest Plan 6 on almost 1 acre!

SOLD

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19200 Allandale Drive, Tarzana $3,875,000 Spectacular Updated Mulholland Park Estate!

5327 Vanalden Avenue, Tarzana $2,550,000 ($150K over asking) Tarzana Compound on 8/10 Acre

17445 Oak Creek Court, Encino $2,499,000 Amestoy Estates Gated Community

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5036 Woodley Avenue, Encino $1,850,000 ($200K over asking) Incredible Opportunity in Encino!

16711 Moorpark Street, Encino $1,720,000 Great Propertunity in Encino!

6013 Lubao Avenue, Woodland Hills $2,200,000 (over asking) College Acres Estate on 1/2 Acre Lot

Coming Soon: Encino South Single Story w/3382 sq. ft. on 17,396 sq. ft. flat lot - $1,999,000, and Encino 2 BD + Loft Condo w/1,166 sq. ft. - $549,000

818.285.3688 www.CarolWolfe.com DRE #00477745

1974

2024

MICHAEL BERGIN | LUXURY ESTATES DIRECTOR

T H E B E RGI N GROU P Your Real Estate Concierge • Prepping • Staging • Marketing • Listing • Selling

Sylvia Haftvani

Andrew Kline

Angie DeGrazia-Shaw

Erika Quicquaro

Kirt Kingzett

Rady Math

DRE# 02192931

DRE# 02041695

DRE# 02158666

DRE# 02193735

DRE# 01741998

DRE# 02088080

Mario Ortega

Beatrice Stambulski

Meadow Scott

Mendel Schmukler

Norma Paladines

Loren Franck

DRE# 02185127

DRE# 01335053

DRE# 02023909

DRE# 02110974

DRE# 02026104

DRE# 02208527

The Bergin Group 310.600.0715 Michael@MichaelBergin.com DRE 01845572

Top 1% Agent in Southern California #1 Compass Agent in Studio City / Sherman Oaks Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdraw without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate. Exact dimensions can be obtained by retaining the services of an architect or engineer. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. *Data sourced from americandreamnetwork.tv

We Practice the Art of Magnificent Service

From the

VALLEY

to the

WEST SIDE

LET OUR TEAM HELP YOU WITH YOUR REAL ESTATE NEEDS! SALES|RENTALS PURCHASING|INVESTMENTS

Stephanie Payab, Realtor® Cal DRE 01394407 | 818-269-2796 stephanie@thepayabgroup.com © 2024 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties is a member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates LLC. BHHS and the BHHS symbol are registered service marks of Columbia Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate.

REAL ESTATE ALL-STAR 2023 818.644.1477 DANIELLEPERETZ18 DANIELLE@THEBEVERLYHILLSESTATES.COM THEBEVERLYHILLSESTATES.COM ©2024 The Beverly Hills Estates. Broker does not guarantee the accuracy of square footage, lot size or other information concerning the condition or features of property obtained from public records or other sources. Equal Housing Opportunity. DRE 02126121 | DRE 01897529

JUST LISTED

JUST LISTED

4612 VAN NOORD AVE | SHERMAN OAKS SOLD

13618 ADDISON ST | SHERMAN OAKS

SOLD

4136 DIXIE CANYON AVE | SHERMAN OAKS

SOLD

*REP. BUYER

14656 VALLEY VISTA BLVD | SHERMAN OAKS

SOLD

843 BROWN DR | BURBANK

IN ESCROW

5442 HAZELTINE AVE | SHERMAN OAKS

5023 LEMONA AVE | SHERMAN OAKS SOLD

4301 FULTON AVE #203 | SHERMAN OAKS *REP. BUYER

* OFF MARKET SALE

SOLD

13004 GREENLEAF ST | STUDIO CITY

SOLD

4828 DENSMORE AVE | ENCINO

SOLD

4709 NORWICH AVE | SHERMAN OAKS

1707 N CATALINA ST | BURBANK

SOLD

4213 RHODES AVE | STUDIO CITY

SOLD

201 S RENO ST | LOS ANGELES *REP. BUYER

SOLD

8739 RANGLEY AVE | WEST HOLLYWOOD

SOLD

11565 CHIQUITA ST | STUDIO CITY

FOR SALE

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4935 AGNES AVE | VALLEY VILLAGE

FOR SALE

AD

14636 ROUND VALLEY DR | SHERMAN OAKS

22450 MIRANDA ST | WOODLAND HILLS

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14569 BENEFIT ST #105 | SHERMAN OAKS

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11758 LA MAIDA ST | VALLEY VILLAGE

FOR SALE

13463 CHANDLER BLVD | SHERMAN OAKS

ANDREW DINSKY 310.729.3393

ANDREW@THEDINSKYTEAM.COM DRE #01724985

THEDINSKYTEAM.COM

The information contained herein has been obtained through sources deemed reliable but cannot be guaranteed as to its accuracy. Buyer to verify accuracy of information. DRE #01811831.

The Hope Estate TOLUCA LAKE

The Highest Sale in Toluca Lake History $26,000,000 REPRESENTED BOTH BUYER & SELLER

KEVIN DEES 818.414.3404 DRE 01915567

©2024 Carolwood Estates. Broker does not guarantee the accuracy of square footage, lot size, or other information concerning the condition or features of the property obtained from various sources. Prices may reflect list-price due to client confidentiality. Some properties displayed were sold by an agent prior to them joining Carolwood Estates but who are now currently licensed at Carolwood Estates. Carolwood Estates was therefore not the broker of record.

Equal Housing Opportunity. DRE 02200006

Sold $1,975,000 14859 Jadestone Drive, Sherman Oaks

Sold $2,695,000 14030 Roblar Road, Sherman Oaks

For Sale $3,400,000 13412 Galewood Street, Sherman Oaks

For Sale $2,295,000 3433 Shernoll Place, Sherman Oaks

For Sale $2,100,000 3711 Glenridge Drive, Sherman Oaks

For Lease $17,500 13378 Contour Drive, Sherman Oaks

818.426.8677 barrydantagnan@gmail.com The property information herein is derived from various sources that may include, but not be limited to, county records and the Multiple Listing Service, and it may include approximations. Although the information is believed to be accurate, it is not warranted and you should not rely upon it without personal verification. Affiliated real estate agents are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2021 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logos are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker ® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Realogy Brokerage Group LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. CalRe#00616212 and CalRe#01020477

4407MedleyPl.com

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5656 Wish Ave. | Encino | $1,499,000

Oren David Mordkowitz ESTATES DIRECTOR | REALTOR ® DRE License #01246402

818-933-5866

oren@orenestates.com

OrenEstates.com DRE #00905345

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WE ’ L L LE T OU R NUM BERS DO TH E TALKING $212 Million in 2023 Sales

Top 1% of Teams Nationwide #22 Small Team in California by Real Trends #54 Small Team Nationwide by LABJ GINA MICHELLE | GINA.MICHELLE@THEAGENCYRE.COM | 818.850.1458 | LIC. #01503003 GEORGE OUZOUNIAN | GEORGE.OZ@THEAGENCYRE.COM | 818.900.4259 | LIC. #01948763

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Enjoy a discount with Citi’s Mortgage Relationship Pricing * for the love of

feeling right at home. for the love of progress

SM

An offer for new or existing Citi banking customers

$500 off closing costs

rate discount -OR- an interest for the life of the loan Based on your Citi Eligible Balances

Ask how your clients can take advantage of Mortgage Relationship Pricing

John Musso Senior Home Lending Officer 818-518-1008 john.musso@citi.com citi.com/johnmusso NMLS # 448606

Terms, conditions and fees for accounts, programs, offers, products and services are subject to change without notice at any time. Offer may be modified or withdrawn at any time without notice.

Offer cannot be combined with other offers, except when applied with specific Community Lending Programs. Offers are not applicable on Home Equity Loans and Lines of Credit. This is not a commitment to lend.

This offer contains information about U.S. domestic financial services provided by Citibank, N.A. and is intended for use domestically in the U.S. Citibank, N.A. is not responsible for the obligations of its affiliates. * Citi Mortgage Relationship Pricing — A Citibank deposit account is required to receive the interest rate discount or closing cost credit.

Automated monthly transfers of the mortgage payment from a Citibank Deposit Account using automated drafting will be required. Actual interest rate discount or closing cost credit will depend on the level of the Citi Eligible Balances, which will be verified after final loan approval.

Deposit Account Balances must be in the account five (5) Business Days following final loan approval Citi Eligible Balance Relationship Pricing Benefit and Investment Account balances must be in the account six (6) Business Days following final loan approval. Citi eligible accounts include a personal, consumer Citibank Deposit Account in which the borrower is a direct signer, Citibank IRAs, and Investments held in linked Citigroup Global Markets $1 – $49,999.99 $500 off closing cost Inc. (“CGMI”) accounts. The borrower must be an account holder on investment accounts. IRA and annuity positions shown on linked CGMI Account statements are eligible (except tax qualified $50,000 – $199,999.99 1/8% (0.125%) off interest rate annuities under sections 401, 403, or 457 of the Internal Revenue Code). Balances from Citibank Business / Commercial accounts, ERISA accounts, Keogh accounts, Bank Collateral accounts, Foreign accounts, Fiduciary accounts, and Trust accounts where the borrower is only listed as the Beneficiary $200,000 – $499,999.99 1/4% (0.250%) off interest rate are excluded. All Custodial type accounts are excluded with the exception of Custodial IRA accounts through Citibank or Pershing LLC where the borrower(s) is the beneficiary, which are eligible unless $500,000 – $999,999.99 3/8% (0.375%) off interest rate otherwise noted. Citibank IRAs that are not linked to a Citibank Deposit Account are excluded.

The closing cost credit offer will be applied at closing and may not be used prior to closing. In Texas, $1,000,000 – $1,999,999.99 1/2% (0.500%) off interest rate the credit may not result in you receiving cash back.

If you are interested in Citi’s banking account relationship offers, please contact your Home Lending Officer or Mortgage Representative. Speak to your loan officer about whether the relationship offer is $2,000,000 or more 5/8% (0.625%) off interest rate best for you.

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Investment products are offered through Citigroup Global Markets Inc. (“CGMI”), Member SIPC (https://sipc.org). Citibank and CGMI are affiliated companies under the common control of Citigroup Inc. © 2024 Citibank, N.A. NMLS# 412915. Member FDIC and Equal Housing Lender. Citi, Citi and Arc Design and other marks used herein are service marks of Citigroup Inc. or its affiliates, used and registered throughout the world.

LAST WORD

Romance Takes a Hike THE LURE OF LOVE IN A LONG-TIME MARRIAGE. Written by Richard Lowe | Illustrated by Yuiko Sugino

It was morning, and my wife and I were a quarter-mile

unclasped hands, needing the extra momentum to go up-

along the Mist Trail in Yosemite, holding hands as couples

hill. I started to move faster, wanting to get it over with,

do. The winter air was crisp, and the trees were aglow in

while she decided to go slower. By the time I realized I

the dawning sun. The only sounds were the birds and our

was 20 feet ahead of her, the mood had soured.

easy conversation, uninterrupted by our kids for the first

“Babe! You okay?!” I shouted, galloping back.

time in what felt like eons. It was perfe—

“I’m fine,” she grumbled.

“This would’ve been so romantic years ago,” she said.

“Do you want to stop?”

The needle scratch echoed from Half Dome to El

“No. This is just my pace.”

Capitan. My defense mechanism kicked in with a joke:

“I’ll walk with you—”

“Well, what’s romance to a couple like us, anyway?”

“Keep going! You’re annoying me.”

I’m pretty sure she gave me the side-eye, but there

Oops. Though I came back wanting to help and save

was some truth to my question. Chelsee and I met fresh-

the good vibes, she just wanted to get to the destination.

man year of high school. We dated senior year through

She suggested (demanded) that we hike the last leg sepa-

college, then got married at 25. We just celebrated our

rately. I trudged ahead, alone and regrets swirling.

16th anniversary. We have two kids, multiple jobs, plenty

Eventually we reunited at the Vernal Falls bridge. She

of bills and not enough sleep. I figured the sweeping ges-

was still frowning. “We did it!” I cheered. She rolled her

tures of yesteryear left us long ago, like Blockbuster Video

eyes. Maybe even glowered.

and most of my hair. But the “note behind the note” was

Clearly, enthusiasm wasn’t going to work. Would some

well taken. Just because we’re older doesn’t mean the

big declaration of love? A profuse apology? The promise of

romance should disappear.

an indulgent dessert after dinner? Who could resist those

We concluded that romance has to evolve with our life.

overtures, especially under this magnificent waterfall?

Sure, we may not be able to fit epic international travel or

Instead, I just kissed her. “Sorry,” I added. And she

spur-of-the-moment date nights into our schedule any-

smiled. I put my arm around her as we stood in awe of

more, but there were simple ways to feel seen and heard.

the cascading water. The ponderosas swayed in the misty

My writing a love letter for her to find. Her helping with

breeze. The hike hadn’t started with romance, and at one

chores on a busy day. We squeezed hands in agreement.

point it seemed truly improbable, but it ended there in

What started as a potential landmine pivoted into a

the simplest of ways. Evolve, indeed. ■

deeply connected conversation.

106 |

But then the trail started its ascent.

Richard Lowe lives in Studio City with his wife Chelsee and their

We huffed and puffed. Sweat dappled our brows. We

two daughters. On his to-do list: Write a love letter.

THE WONDER WOMEN OF REAL ESTATE Harriet Cameron Group

Harriet Cameron

Harriet@HarrietCameron.com DRE# 00675971 | 818-380-2151

Jenny Birchfield-Eick

Jenny@JennyBirchfield.com DRE# 02070744 | 818-601-8663

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