Local Services

Capturing Magic

Photographer Charlene Taylor describes what’s beautiful about The Santa Experience Article by Krista Minard | Photography by Charlene Taylor of Charm/SmackDab Studio Local photographer and cinematographer Charlene Taylor, of Charm Photography and SmackDab Studio, has created a special hour-long photo session that brings families into the wonder of the holidays and provides an artistic keepsake they’ll always treasure. We caught up with her to find out more about The Santa Experience. Let’s...

Travel

Holidays in the Foothills

Two beloved events along Highway 49 in Nevada County provide a ready reason for a festive mini-getaway Article by Krista Minard | Photography by Nevada City Chamber & Kat Alves On a crisp late-fall evening, when it’s dark by 4:30 p.m., the greenery-wrapped lamplights glow against historic buildings on downtown Nevada City’s Broad Street. Well-bundled revelers—some dressed in Victorian-era attire—wander among outdoor booths, nibbling roasted chestnuts and shopping for gifts made by local...

Entertainment

An EDH Tradition: Making a Difference

EDH Fire Department hosts the annual Santa Run which captivates this generous community Article by Krista Minard | Photography by Nick Sharples At the El Dorado Hills Fire Department, they look forward to the Santa Run all year long. Between the planning, the staffing, deciding who’s going to play the Grinch, and more, the EDH Fire Department really gets into the Santa Run fun; they’re also deeply touched by the community’s giving spirit. Last year, the event garnered 6,200 toys and more than...

Life + Culture

From Broadcast to Brushstrokes

Exploring light, shadow, and everyday beauty with EDH-based artist Robert N. Anderson Article by Kristy Murdoch | Photography by Robert N. Anderson From Broadcast to Brushstrokes Exploring light, shadow, and everyday beauty with EDH-based artist Robert N. Anderson Robert N. Anderson’s journey as an artist has been anything but traditional. After a four-decade career in television, including a position as general manager of a San Francisco TV station, he found his way back to his first...

Local Services

Standing Up for Kids

CASA El Dorado executive director Natalie Moore introduces the organization and its support for children Article by Krista Minard | Photography by Provided by CASA Imagine you’re a 7-year-old in a new foster home full of strangers, uncertain where your parents have gone, and separated from your brothers and sisters. Who can you count on? This is where CASA comes in. What CASA stands for says it all: Court Appointed Special Advocates. Its volunteers are caring community members designated by...

Food + Beverage

Delightful DIY Jars

Homemade gift ideas sure to impress the party host Article by How-To by Catherine Baer | Photography by Kristy Murdoch The holiday season is here, bringing with it a full calendar of parties, gatherings, and festive celebrations. While a bottle of wine or a bouquet of flowers is always an appreciated thank-you gift, why not surprise your host with something more personal this year? These food- and drink-inspired layered jar creations are simple to make, fun to customize, and sure to be enjoyed...

Life + Culture

Digital Detox for Gratitude

Practical ways to unplug and rediscover joy in everyday moments Photography by Murdoch Media Group In today’s world, phones buzz, notifications ping, and social media scrolls never seem to end. While technology keeps us connected, it can also distract us from the very moments that make life meaningful. A little intentional unplugging can help shift our focus back to gratitude, connection, and presence. The good news? It doesn’t take a total digital detox—just small, mindful changes. Even just...

Life + Culture

Still Serving

El Dorado Hills Military Veterans Group serves the entire community Article by Krista Minard When Steven Gutierrez moved to El Dorado Hills in 2016, he discovered something missing in his beautiful new community: a strong local group that brought military service members together. He served for 36 years in the U.S. Marines and the U.S. Army, on active duty and in the reserves, and he saw a need for a strong veterans network. So he started one. “The goal was to create camaraderie, provide a...

Food + Beverage

Rustic Fall Supper

Gather friends and family for a farm-to-table feast filled with comforting flavors and rustic charm Photography by Paul Versluis There’s no better way to welcome fall than with a cozy gathering of friends and family around a beautifully decorated table filled with comfort food. From the first sip of a smoky Mezcal cocktail to the aroma of freshly roasted vegetables and herbs, this farm-to-table dinner is brimming with character and flavor. Earthy ceramics and rustic arrangements of locally...

Food + Beverage

Savor the Local Flavor

Your insider guide for your next craving and occasion Article by Kristy Murdoch | Photography by Provided Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner, wrangling the kids for a family night out, or chasing the best deals, our area’s dining scene delivers. Bustling breweries, cozy restaurants, family-friendly eateries, and date-night gems all await. We’ve rounded up some top local picks so you can spend less time scrolling reviews and more time savoring great food, great drinks, and great company...