Photo by Mehak Khullar Photography
May
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Sat., May 17
Public Art Walking Tour
@Lesher Center for the Arts Plaza is the beginning point Bedford Gallery offers one hour docentled walking tours of Walnut Creek’s wonderful downtown public art collection every third Saturday, April through November. Our Docents are trained by public art specialists and offer information and insight appropriate for all ages. Cost: $5 cash for adults, free for those under 18
Time:10-11am
Thurs., May 22
Remodeling Seminar
@Gordon Reese Design Build (3021 Citrus Circle #170, Walnut Creek)
Join our exclusive seminar and learn how to avoid:
• Designing a project that is too expensive to build
• Making regretful design decisions
• Choosing the wrong contractor Charcuterie and adult beverages provided. Visit our website to register: www.GordonReese.com
Cost: Complimentary
Time: 5:45-7:30pm
Sat., May 31 and Sun., June 1
Art & Wine Festival
@Civic Park
The 42nd annual Art & Wine Festival is moving to Civic Park. Fun for the entire family, the annual kick-off to the Summer festival draws 40,000 + attendees from all over the Bay Area. Festival goers fill the park to enjoy arts and crafts and commercial vendor booths, festival foods, a wide range of wines, a craft beer garden, continuous live music, children’s activities, and more in a beautiful park setting.
Every Monday
Free Yoga Class
@1399 Ygnacio Valley Rd., Suite 26
Behavioral Fitness Presents- Another Living Better through Community offering - Yoga is for all of us. A beautiful way to start the week- come join our peaceful, mindful yoga on Monday mornings. This generous gift is sponsored by our local non-profit: Providing Easier Access to Care Everywhere: PEACE (501 (c)3). Much more than physical fitness it includes social, emotional, and environmental wellness too. Meet your neighbors and invite a friend. All levels will find their place in this gentle and inspiring time in our new space. Space is limited so please text or call to rsvp (925) 818-8062. Cost: FREE Time: 9-10am
Through
June 22
Limitless: Celebrating Artists with Disabilities
@Bedford Gallery, Lesher Center for the Arts
Recognizing the indelible contributions of artists with intellectual and developmental disabilities working in the visual arts, this exhibition challenges conventional narratives and broadens our understanding of creativity, innovation, and expression. Since Creative Growth’s opening in 1974 and the subsequent launch of NIAD in 1982 and Creativity Explored in 1983, these institutions have been at the forefront of creating visibility for artists with disabilities in the Bay Area. We are honored to present 65 artists— with practices at these organizations—in a comprehensive survey that includes media from ceramics and textiles to figurative and abstract painting and drawing.
Cost: pay what you can
Time: Wed. - Sun. 12:00-6:00pm
Every Saturday Farmers’ Market
@Shadelands Business Park
Farmers bring their best from the nearby farming areas, kid’s craft corner, live music. www.cafarmersmkts.com/ diablo-valley-farmers-market Time: 9am-1pm
Save the Date:
Sat., June 7
Pride Day at Bedford Gallery
@Bedford Gallery, Lesher Center for the Arts
Join local author Kara Navolio at 10:30am for Everybody Can Dance! story time and dance party in the gallery followed by Pride-themed art activities. Visitors can also enjoy the current exhibit: LimitlessCelebrating Artists with Disabilities. All ages welcome, perfect for the whole family! Time: 10:30am
Publication Team
Publisher: Jo Peek
Content Coordinator: Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991
Designer: Meagan Patry
Contributing Photographer: Mehak Khullar
Advertising
Contact: Jo Peek
Email: JPeek@bestversionmedia.com
Feedback/Ideas/Submissions:
Have feedback, ideas, or submissions? We are always happy to hear from you! Deadlines for submissions are the 10th of each month. Go to www.bestversionmedia.com and click “Submit Content.” You may also email your thoughts, ideas, and photos to: Knavolio@bestversionmedia.com.
Any content, resident submissions, guest columns, advertisements and advertorials are not necessarily endorsed by or represent the views of Best Version Media (BVM) or any municipality, homeowners associations, businesses or organizations that this publication serves. BVM is not responsible for the reliability, suitability or timeliness of any content submitted, inclusive of materials generated or composed through artificial intelligence (AI). All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. © 2025 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.
Dear Neighbors,
Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms, and I hope everyone is enjoying the beautiful spring weather that has finally arrived! In this issue you will meet Gordon and Michelle Reese, a couple that has a passion for healthy living and meaningful connections to the community and family. You may recognize Gordon as the author of some of our Expert Contributor articles and a long-time sponsor of this magazine! There are also some great stories from your neighbors that I hope you’ll enjoy.
I’m eager to hear from you and share your stories whether you have gardening or book tips, an adorable pet, an interesting adventure to share, a hobby, a recipe, a charity you’re involved with, or any other topic you think the Northgate neighbors would like to hear more about. I’m also looking for families to feature each month on the front cover. I believe that interesting stories don’t just come from celebrities, but from our own communities. Everyone has a story to tell, and I’d love it if you’d let me tell yours. Send your articles and photos to knavolio@bestversionmedia.com.
Connect with us on Facebook or Instagram and visit us online at www.northgatelivingCA.com.
Kara Navolio
Northgate Living CA Content Coordinator
Resident Since 1991
If you have a story, event or news to share please email me at knavolio@bestversionmedia.com. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook: NorthgateLivingCA.
Rita Dhillon Team
Jo Peek
Advertising - Print & Digital
Northgate Living CA
Jo Peek 925-272-8246
NorthgateLivingCA@gmail.com www.NorthgateLivingCA.com
Auto Service and Repair
Diablo Auto Specialists
Bill Adams & Melissa Brunson
925-478-5721
1439 Autocenter Drive
Walnut Creek, CA 94597 www.diabloautospecialists.com
Design, Build & Remodeling
Gordon Reese
Gordon Reese Design Build 925-477-4953
Marketing@GordonReese.com GordonReese.com
Heating and Air
Perfect Star Heating, Cooling & Electrical
Chris Donzelli (925) 444-STAR (7827) info@perfectstarhvac.com www.perfectstarhvac.com
Real Estate
Rita Dhillon Compass Real Estate (925) 570-1010
Rita.Dhillon@compass.com www.RitaDhillonTeam.com
Storage Expert
Shadelands Self Storage 925-935-6200 info@shadelandsstorage.com https://shadelandsstorage.com/
Over the last 9 years, Jo Peek has been helping local businesses, nonprofits, charities and schools connect with our community on a deeper level. She works with each client individually to customize a marketing campaign to suit their needs, timeline and budget.
Bill Adams and Melissa Brunson welcome you to your car’s service and repair shop. Diablo Auto Specialists is one of the most respected shops in the East Bay since its inception over 25 years ago by Tim Stussy. Bill and Melissa bring years of experience in the independent service and repair business and own additional stores in Castro Valley and Albany.
With over 41 years of experience, Gordon Reese Design Build is a nationally recognized, award-winning firm dedicated to transforming homes into spaces that truly reflect your lifestyle. Specializing in kitchens, bathrooms, whole-home remodels, additions, and ADUs, our expert team guides you from concept to completion with creativity, clear communication, and proven craftsmanship. We combine thoughtful design, 3D visualization, and a seamless process to deliver beautiful, functional results—making your remodeling journey stress-free and exciting. Trusted throughout the community, we’re proud to be your friend in the remodeling business. Let’s bring your dream home to life.
With over 30 years of experience, Perfect Star Heating, Cooling and Electrical is proud to be a truly locally owned and operated family business serving Alameda & Contra Costa County. We specialize in Furnace/Heating, Air Conditioning, and Ductless Mini-Split installation, along with repair and maintenance for Central HVAC systems. Our services also include Ductwork, Indoor Air Quality solutions, and now Electrical Repair & Installation, as well as Solar Installation.
Rita has been a Northgate resident and selling neighborhood properties for over 25 years. She’s received numerous awards including being nominated as Realtor of the Year by the East Bay Business Times, previously ranked the #64 Realtor in America by the Wall Street Journal/REAL Trends, previously ranked the #1 Realtor in Contra Costa County, and ranked the #1 Realtor in Northgate for total sales volume over many years.
At Shadelands Self-storage we provide peace of mind to our clients by offering a state of the art facility with video recorded surveillance and a real-time closed-circuit TV security monitoring station. In addition to our secured facilities, we have climate-controlled units, non-combustible construction and many additional features to fit your storing needs.
Asparagus, Leek, and Basil Risotto
By Shiva Keeney, Resident since 2024
Spring is in full swing, and with it comes vibrant green hills, blooming flowers, lots of sneezing, and, more importantly, an abundance of asparagus! It’s a wonderful time to start cooking with fresh and seasonal fruits and veggies.
Asparagus is incredibly versatile, but if not cooked propely, it can be soft and stringy. We avoid this pothole by blending the asparagus, leek, shallots and basil into the vegetable broth used to soften the arborio rice. The result is a creamy, flavorful risotto with immense depth.
This week, we sourced our asparagus, leek and basil from the Tierra Bonita Farm stand at the Shadeland’s Farmers market. They have a good assortment of produce and it stays fresh for a long time!
Risotto is simple but does require a bit of patience. However, this version is absolutely worth the wait. It’s perfect for a cozy date night or a dinner party, especially if you make it ahead and reheat it with a bit of extra broth. We topped ours with seared scallops from the farmer’s market, and it made for a truly perfect meal!
Ingredients:
• Approx. 20 Asparagus spears (see step 1 for chopping instructions)
• 1 medium Leek, halved and sliced into thin half moons
• 1 medium Shallot, chopped finely
• 1-2oz Basil leaves, roughly chopped
• 4T Extra Virgin Olive Oil or Avocado Oil
• 1T lemon juice, keep the rind for zesting
• 4 cups Vegetable Broth + 2 cups water
• Salt to taste
• 1 cup Arborio Rice
• 1/2 c. dry white wine (optional)
• 3T butter (optional)
• 1/3 cup finely grated Parmesan, plus some for dusting on top
• Salt to taste
Directions:
1. Break off the ends of asparagus by bending them close to the end and discard. They will naturally break off in the perfect spot (or chop off the last inch or two). Chop off asparagus tips and set aside. Chop up the remaining asparagus spears and keep.
2. Heat 2T of oil on medium and add in the diced shallots and chopped leek. Sauté for 1-2 minutes. Add in the asparagus and sauté until softened.
3. Pour 4 cups of Vegetable broth into the mixture and bring to a simmer. Add in 1T of lemon juice and chopped basil until it begins to wilt slightly. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to blend the sauce into a bright green broth. If using a blender, add the broth back to the pot and keep warm. Depending on the broth used, the mixture may need more salt.
4. On another stove top bring a small pot of water and a little salt to a boil. Add in the asparagus tips and boil for 2 minutes. Drain and set aside to use later.
5. Add 2T oil to a large pan and add in arborio rice. Mix until rice is beginning to crackle.
6. Add in 1/2 c. white wine, if using, and reduce until the wine has evaporated.
7. Continue adding a cup of broth to the rice and stir until the broth has almost reduced completely. Add another cup and repeat the process until you have no more broth to add. If the arborio rice is still too al dente, add water and repeat steps using ½ cup of water each time until reaching the desired consistency. If using, add in the butter for an extra creamy risotto.
8. Continue stirring and add in 1/3 cup of finely grated parmesan. Use a microplane or fine cheese grater to zest a lemon into the risotto.
9. Add to a bowl and top with a little more parmesan, lemon zest, and and enjoy!
Gordon and Michelle Reese: an active and connected life Meet
By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991; Photos provided by The Reese Family
Gordon and Michelle Reese met at a cycling event in 2006. They were drawn together by their mutual love of the outdoors. Gordon was living in Oakland, and Michelle was in Walnut Creek, and after a year of dating they decided to make their home together in the Northgate neighborhood. They married in Carmel in 2010. Gordon says, “and since then our journey together has been filled with adventure, community involvement, and a passion for creating meaningful connections.”
Living an active and engaged life
They choose Northgate because of its “perfect balance – it’s quiet and peaceful, and yet it keeps us close to all the action,” adds Gordon. The Reese family appreciates the many outdoor activities available and having a vibrant downtown just a short drive away. Gordon and Michelle take full advantage of Northgate’s best opportunities as they both still enjoy cycling, hiking, and outdoor adventures. Gordon has recently discovered disc golf, and Michelle enjoys the Pilates reformer, and line dancing.
Careers centered on helping others
Gordon heads Gordon Reese Design Build and is passionate about transforming homes and creating dream spaces for homeowners. He is a Master Certified Kitchen and Bath Remodeler and a Universal Design Certified Professional (emphasizing functional and inclusive design). Beyond his work, he is proud to support charities such as Arm of Care, Joybound, and Friends of Mt. Diablo. He also coaches youth cyclists for the Contra Costa Composite Mountain Bike Team. Gordon is a fan of the Tour de France, travel (Gordon moved 14 times in his first 14 years and spent part of his childhood in Japan), and mindfulness practices.
Michelle is the founder of Michelle Reese Lifestyle Coach, where she helps people cultivate healthy lifestyle habits, inspired by ancestral wisdom. She is also a Heal Your Life Coach and Workshop Leader, trained in the teachings of Louise L. Hay, and specializes in personal and space clearing and energy work based on Chinese Medicine. She and Gordon share a love of eating healthy and staying fit. Michelle is one of 8 children, with a twin
brother. Fun fact: two of her other siblings are also twins.
Proud of their grown children
They have three grown children between them. Sierra is Gordon’s daughter. She works as a dental assistant and Operations Manager at a Washington dental clinic and is a mom to three busy boys. “They bring so much joy to our lives as grandparents,” adds Gordon.
Bri, Michelle’s daughter, is a computer science professional at a local university; she developed expertise in programming, web design, and artificial intelligence. She has a love for dance and embraces her geeky side with a deep passion for Anime, Marvel Superheroes, and Comi-Cons.
Daria, also Michelle’s daughter, is a Veterinary Technician at a neighborhood clinic. She enjoys her animals, Anime, art and hiking, and combining her creativity with her love of the outdoors.
And then there are the fur babies! Cody is
a 14-year-old Yorkshire Terrier, and Jackson is a 2 ½-year-old Poodle/Maltese mix. They enjoy hikes with their humans and exploring the outdoors, just like the rest of the family.
Family time
Each year this blended family tries to gather for a special trip, creating lasting bonds and memories together. From Christmas break in San Diego to Thanksgiving and a birthday celebration in Washington, “these trips have become a cherished tradition, giving us time to reconnect, explore and enjoy life’s simple pleasures as a family.”
The best of Northgate
Gordon adds, “What we appreciate most about Northgate is the sense of safety and tranquility. We know many of our immediate neighbors and enjoy getting together from time to time. We also love being surrounded by nature, whether it’s hearing birds in the morning, hiking the nearby hills, watching the local wildlife, or visiting the local parks, the area provides a wonderful backdrop for an active and connected lifestyle.
Do you know a neighbor who has a story to share? Nominate your neighbor to be featured in one of our upcoming issues! Contact us at knavolio@bestversionmedia.com.
Joybound Looking for Love
By Chelsea Blackburn, Joybound
Adopt a new best friend at Joybound People & Pets (formerly the Animal Rescue Foundation) in Walnut Creek! View available dogs and cats online or visit Joybound in-person: MondaySunday, 12-6 pm. Our team is excited to guide you in choosing a pet, share information about their history and behavior, and provide helpful resources.
Joybound adoption fees:
• $150 for an adult dog
• $375 for a puppy (<6 months)
• $75 for a special-needs dog
• $200 for a special-needs puppy (<6 months)
• $75 for a senior dog (7+ years)
• Adoption fees waived for US military Veterans
• $100 for an adult cat
• $175 for a kitten (<6 months)
• $50 for a special-needs cat
• $100 for a special-needs kitten (<6 months)
• $50 for a senior cat (7+ years)
• Adoption fees waived for US military Veteran
Real Estate Listings in Northgate
Active Listings
$4,895,000
$3,850,000
$2,880,000
$2,200,000
$1,895,000
Pending Listings
$3,980,000
$3,295,000
$1,848,000
$1,795,000
$1,580,000
Sold Listings
$3,250,000
$3,000,000
$2,625,000
$2,495,000
$1,950,000
$1,900,000
Rita Dhillon Team Presents
In
Remodeling That Pays Off: Top Home Upgrades to Boost Your Home’s Comfort and Value in Northgate
By Gordon Reese, Gordon Reese Design Build, Resident since 2008
Northgate and surrounding communities, homeowners are increasingly asking the question: Is remodeling still worth it? With interest rates high and housing prices holding steady, the answer is a resounding yes—when it’s done wisely. Thoughtful remodeling improves your daily quality of life and strengthens your home’s value. The key lies in strategic upgrades that offer a solid return on investment while enhancing how your home functions.
At Gordon Reese Design Build, we help clients transform their homes to better fit their needs—without overextending their budget. Here are the top home upgrades that pay off, both now and in the future.
1. Kitchen Remodels: Function Meets Financial Return
The kitchen is the heart of the home and one of the most valuable areas to remodel. It’s where families gather, meals are prepared, and life happens. An outdated kitchen can be frustrating, but a remodel can completely change how the space functions—and feels.
Updating cabinetry, installing quartz countertops, upgrading appliances, and improving lighting can make everyday tasks more enjoyable and efficient. Open layouts, oversized islands, and modern storage solutions are especially desirable.
Why it pays off: Kitchen remodels typically return 60–80% of the investment, and they significantly boost both enjoyment and market value.
2. Bathroom Upgrades: Comfort and Appeal
Modern bathrooms are high on every buyer’s wish list—and your family’s too. Whether you’re refreshing the powder room or redesigning the primary bath into a spa-inspired retreat, an upgraded bathroom adds daily comfort and resale appeal.
Features like walk-in showers, floating vanities, heated floors, and elegant lighting create a space that feels luxurious and functional. Even small updates, like replacing outdated finishes and improving lighting, can make a big difference.
Why it pays off: Bathroom remodels often recoup 60–70% of their cost and can help your home stand out in a competitive market.
3. Additions and ADUs: Expand with Purpose
Need more room? A home addition or accessory dwelling unit (ADU) can solve space issues while adding substantial value. Whether it’s a new primary suite, home office, family room, or income-generating ADU, these larger projects deliver long-term benefits.
ADUs are especially valuable in Northgate for multigenerational living or rental income potential. With private entrances, compact kitchens, and thoughtful design, they offer flexibility that today’s homeowners need.
Why it pays off: These projects have a higher upfront cost but often return 70% or more—plus they add long-term lifestyle value.
4. Energy-Efficient Upgrades: Savings That Last
Installing energy-efficient windows, improving insulation, switching to heat pumps, or adding solar panels can reduce your utility bills and improve comfort. Many upgrades come with rebates or tax credits, making them even more attractive. Energy-efficient homes also appeal to environmentally conscious buyers and may command higher prices when it’s time to sell.
Why it pays off: Lower monthly bills, increased home value, and enhanced comfort all add up to a smart long-term investment.
5. Smarter Layouts: Use Your Space More Wisely
Not every project requires more square footage. Sometimes, it’s about reimagining how your existing space works. Removing walls for better flow, reconfiguring rooms for modern living, or turning underused areas into something functional can transform your daily life.
This is where professional design is key. With tools like 3D modeling, you can visualize layout changes and see how everything will come together—before construction begins. Why it pays off: Functional spaces improve livability and resale value—and they often cost less than full additions.
Plan with Confidence
The smartest remodeling projects start with the right team. At Gordon Reese Design Build, we guide homeowners from vision to completion using a proven process that includes accurate estimating, 3D design, and price certainty. Our clients feel confident knowing we stay within the agreed investment range while delivering beautiful, functional spaces.
Whether you’re planning a kitchen update, bathroom refresh, or new addition, we’re here to help you make informed decisions and invest wisely in your home.
Ready to make your home work better and increase its value?
Contact Gordon Reese Design Build today and start planning a remodel that pays off in every way.
Two Northgate Athletes Considered for “Athlete of the Week”
Submitted by Kelly Cooper, Northgate High School Principal
Two Northgate athletes were recently considered for “Athlete of the Week” by the East Bay Times due to their outstanding achievements in their sport:
Mikayla Kelling- Grade 11
Mikayla qualified for State Finals for her California High School Rodeo Association District 4 in Barrels and Poles. They only take the top 6 of each district to compete against the other 8 Districts in a 10 day Rodeo in Bishop, CA in June. The winners of State will head to Wyoming for the World Finals in the National High School Rodeo Association Finals. Mikayla has worked so hard while still maintaining a 3.6 GPA.
Sven Grant- Grade 11
Sven just finished an incredible season competing for the USA in the Junior Olympics for slalom, giant slalom and downhill, and competes the final races this weekend April 12-13 at Mammoth in Super Giant Slalom. He finished 2nd at Sugar Bowl, and qualified as first alternate for the regional championships in his first FIS competition at Palisades against the likes of Norway, Finland, Canada, France and Great Britain.
Your Car Expertly Maintained
Your Indoor Air Quality Matters
By Chris Donzelli, Owner Perfect Star Heating, Cooling & Electrical
Living in a confined space means that the cleanest home may still be unsanitary. Think about it this way: the average person needs 2 quarts of water a day to survive, but needs 15,000 quarts of air to survive, so you must ask yourself why do people purchase filtered/bottled water, yet they never change their air filter in their home? The emissions from older HVAC systems, improper filtration or system leaks can all lead to breathing in dirt, dust, and bacteria that you cannot even see. If you have allergies this can be a nightmare. At Perfect Star, we offer dynamic products and solutions to keep your air clean and healthy.
Perfect Star can solve your Air Quality woes with a new Indoor Air Quality control system that will eliminate dirt, dust, germs, allergens, and other pollutants making the air you and your family breathe in daily cleaner and healthier. As an authorized dealer, we offer products including Air Scrubbers by ActivePure that utilize the technology that NASA uses on the international space station to keep the air clean!
Another factor in your Air Quality is your ductwork. The backbone of any HVAC system is its ductwork. Over time, ducts
can deteriorate, develop leaks, and become a breeding ground for contaminants. Our duct replacement services ensure that our clients’ homes have a clean and efficient air distribution system. Benefits include of new ductwork include:
• Improved energy efficiency, leading to lower utility bills.
• Enhanced airflow, resulting in more consistent temperatures throughout the home.
• Elimination of dust, allergens, and pollutants that can accumulate in old, damaged ducts
I would love the opportunity to introduce you to one of my Diamond Certified Technicians, so they can walk you through the many benefits of keeping your system running efficiently! Right now, we are offering a 3-for-1 Spring Special for just $59 (Value $536). Call today to find out more about a tune up, safety inspection, and electrical efficiency test for the low price of $59! This special ends on May 31 st , 2025. Perfect Star Heating, Cooling, & Electrical looks forward to helping you improve the Air Quality in your home, and the efficiency of your system –saving you time and money.
Floral Arranging Like a Pro
By Lisa Crossett, Resident since 2001
There’s something undeniably uplifting about a beautiful floral arrangement. Whether it’s a vibrant centerpiece for your dining table, a delicate bouquet by your bedside, or a thoughtful gift for a friend, flowers have a magical way of bringing joy and elegance into our spaces. The best part? You don’t need to be a professional florist to create stunning arrangements—you just need a few tips, a little creativity, and a love for blooms. Instagram has a plethora of talented floral designers to gain inspiration from and @rachelchofloral is at the top of her game.
Start With a Vision - Before you start snipping stems, take a moment to envision the final look. Is this arrangement for a special event? A gift? Your own home decor? Consider the setting, color palette, and the mood you want to convey—romantic, cheerful, minimalist, rustic, or wild and organic. Each time I plan a dinner party, I envision a floral arrangement for the table.
Choose the Right Flowers - A great arrangement starts with a great selection of flowers. You will want to combine the “focal” flowers, which are the stars of the show such as roses, peonies, lilies or sunflowers. Next, add in filler flowers like baby’s breath, waxflower or statice. Finally, greenery will add structure and a natural flow like eucalyptus, ferns or statice. Traders Joe’s has a wonderful selection of unique and staple flowers at reasonable prices.
Prep Like a Pro - Trim stems at a 45-degree angle to maximize water absorption. Remove leaves that will sit below the waterline to avoid bacterial growth. If you’re using store-bought flowers, give them fresh water and flower food to help them perk up. Rachel Cho always adds a splash of sprite soda plus a sip for herself.
top of the vase—this helps support each stem and keeps your arrangement in place.
Build From the Base Up - Start by adding greenery to create a foundation and general shape. Add focal flowers next, spreading them evenly throughout the arrangement. Fill in the gaps with secondary blooms and fillers. Rotate the vase as you go to ensure balance from every angle. Each arrangement is a piece of art and you can be the Claude Monet of floral design.
Choose the Right Vessel - Your vase or container sets the tone. Clear glass gives a clean, classic look; ceramic or textured vases add a modern or rustic vibe. For structure, use floral tape to create a grid across the
Mind the Shape and Flow – Symmetry has a place, there is something artistically interesting to have a perfect floral arrangement. On the other side of the coin, nature isn’t perfect, and your arrangement shouldn’t be either. Let flowers arch and tilt in different directions. Vary heights to create visual interest and use longer stems to draw the eye upward or outward, depending on your desired look.
Finishing Touches - Step back and take a look at your work. Adjust any awkward angles, fill in holes, or remove anything that feels out of place. Add a whimsical touch with a sprig of herbs (like rosemary or lavender) or a pop of color with something unexpected like dried flowers or berries. Care & Longevity - Keep your arrangement fresh by changing the water every 2–3 days, trimming stems slightly, and removing any wilted blooms. Keep it out of direct sunlight and away from heat for best results.
Final Thoughts - Floral arranging is part art, part mindfulness. It’s a chance to slow down, connect with nature, and create something that brings beauty into the world. Whether you’re working with grocery store blooms or garden-fresh picks, with a little practice and creativity, you can turn a handful of flowers into a work of art. So, grab your shears, get inspired, and let your inner florist bloom!
Food, Wine & Entertaining
Lisa has been a Northgate resident since 2001. Professionally she is the President of Crossett Search & Advisory Group. (www. crossettsearchgroup.com) and a board member of Community Arts Foundation based in Walnut Creek. Lisa’s passion is food, wine, and entertaining. She publishes a food blog called Authentic Suburban Gourmet and loves to throw dinner parties, explore wine country, collect wine, and create great food. (Instagram: @authenticsuburbangourmet)
