As we celebrate the first anniversary of Walnut Creek City Lifestyle, we’re letting you in on a little secret—our seasonal obsessions! From the scents we’re wearing to the rituals we’re loving, our editorial team is sharing what’s inspiring us this fall.
Laurel Kellam (Publisher)
- Fragrance We’re Wearing – Nuxe Body Oil - A beauty essential, this luxurious dry oil softens skin, adds subtle shine to hair, and leaves the lightest floral scent behind.
- Book On Our Nightstand – Talking at Night by Claire Daverley. An under-the-radar gem is a moving love story. Told with quiet intimacy, it follows two people whose connection spans years of heartbreak, timing mishaps, and emotional growth. Poetic and honest, it’s the kind of book that lingers long after the last page.
- Skincare Staple – Proof that skincare doesn’t need to be expensive to be excellent. We start with Vanicream’s Daily Facial Moisturizer—gentle, hydrating, and under $15—then layer on La Roche-Posay’s Anthelios sunscreen for SPF that feels like nothing.
Lindsey Hickman (Writer)
- Fall Ritual: Seasonally transitioning my garden fuels me. It's time to pull out the spent zucchini and harvest the last of summer's produce, replacing it with carrot and beet seeds, and leafy green starts. It's the perfect time for pruning back indeterminate tomatoes that are still producing, and prep peppers for overwintering.
- Restaurant Crush: It's time to head to Napa! I never skip Regusci Winery and The Charter Oak Restaurant - both of which honor what each new season brings.
- Skincare Staple: Primally Pure is my go-to year-round. Their tallow-based balms and oil cleanser have kept my skin clear and glowing for the last 10 years.
Ryan Phillips (Writer)
- Book on our nightstand: The Wager by David Grann. Gripping story of an 18th-century shipwreck, I couldn't put it down!
- Art we can't stop thinking about: Ruth Asawa's sculptures at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art. Mesmerizing and complex!
- Fall ritual: For better or worse, going to Cal football games. It feels like fall when I'm at Memorial Stadium in scenic Strawberry Canyon watching the Bears (usually lose).
Cole Cronk (Writer)
- Book on Our Nightstand – I read The Untethered Soul earlier this year and was blown away by its simple yet profound messages. It is a unique book written to benefit those who are spiritual and/or religious.
- Podcast in Our Ears – I’ve been listening to Conan O’Brien Needs A Friend ever since the pandemic, and I haven’t stopped laughing since. There are a ton of great actors and musicians, but the dynamic between the main hosts is what keeps me coming back. Guaranteed giggles.
- Weekend Uniform – Patagonia. What I love is how environmentally conscious they are. In a world full of fast fashion, Patagonia’s efforts stand out.
Crystal Long (Writer)
- Skincare Staple – I am all about a good face moisturizer. I love the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel with Hyaluronic Acid! It's light, non-greasy, and leaves your face feeling refreshed and hydrated.
- Fall Ritual – I enjoy swapping out candles to fit the season. For fall, I love the Pumpkin Pecan Waffles scent from Bath & Body Works.
- Color We’re Craving – A single shade that defines my fall palette is Wine Red (like a rich and deep red tone). Something about it screams fall to me!
Samantha Durbin (Writer)
- Restaurant Crush – Sipeos has carved a niche for Cal-Med cuisine and low-alcohol spirits. Pretty and mellow, it's my new eatery when I'm near Broadway Plaza and want a light bite or drink.
- Book on Our Nightstand – To teach my son mindfulness, we're journaling together in The HappyMe Journal, which explores gratitude, self-esteem, and emotional awareness. He pretends he's not into it, but he engages most nights. It's grounding for me, too!
- Podcast in Our Ears – Mel Robbins' podcast. With her approachable attitude and science-backed advice, Mel’s the wise female mentor I’ve always wanted.