Food + Beverage

Charred Jalapeno & Tomatillo Salsa

A fresh, medium-heat salsa for chip dipping, chilaquiles, and everyday hosting Article by Amber Dawn Schultheis | Photography by Dawning Memories This fresh, medium-heat salsa has a sneaky spiciness and robust flavor. Serve with restaurant-style tortilla chips, over game-day nachos, or make a savory pan of unbelievable chilaquiles. This is a versatile salsa you'll be making on repeat from here on out. Fresh Jalapeno Salsa Makes 4 cups 4 large ripe tomatoes 6 tomatillos, husks...

Life + Culture

A Man of Impact

Nate Stone: The Heart Behind Cathedral and Spir Article by Courtney Evans | Photography by Jordan Gertje In a world that often measures success by profit, some leaders choose a different path. Nate Stone is one of them. His work is not defined by what he gains, but by what he gives. Through Cathedral, Spír Candle Company, and the Spír Foundation, he is creating meaningful change in the lives of young men who are often overlooked. At the center of everything Nate does is a simple belief...

Home + Design

Leading from the Ground Up

The mindset, discipline, and relationships shaping one of the Eastside’s most trusted builders Article by Susie Naficy | Photography by As Noted In an industry where glossy photos of finished homes often take center stage, Stacy Eakman has quietly shifted the focus. For him, the real story isn’t just the product, it’s the people behind it. As the driving force behind Alair Homes Kirkland, Eakman built more than a portfolio of high-end custom homes across the Eastside. He’s built a reputation...

Arts + Culture

The Beauty that is Collaboration

When Leadership Meets Movement Article by Courtney Evans | Photography by YFF and The Backstage Foundation There is something powerful that happens when women come together with purpose. They create spaces where people feel seen and supported. They build communities that lift others up and spark real change. That kind of power was on full display when Youth for Freedom and The Backstage Foundation joined forces for a collaboration that blended leadership and dance in a way that deeply impacted...

Home + Design

Ask Amber

Hospitality and Kitchen Insights for Everyday Gatherings Article by City Lifestyle Staff | Photography by Dawning Memories AMBER DAWN SCHULTHEIS is a hospitality and culinary writer, recipe developer, and regular contributor to   City Lifestyle.  As the voice behind The Host Notes , she shares joyful recipes and thoughtful guidance to help readers create meaningful connection around the table. For our May Ladies Issue, we decided to " Ask Amber " some questions about how she cultivates...

Food + Beverage

Cherry Almond Cream Scones

The perfect pastry for your next brunch gathering Article by Amber Dawn Schultheis | Photography by Dawning Memories This take on the classic scone breakfast pastry is rich and tender, full of cherry-almond flavor—without a nut in sight. Made with heavy cream instead of butter, these scones have a tender, soft crumb and lightly crisp edges. They come together in 45 minutes and are delightful plain or finished with Old Fashioned Glaze Icing for a touch of decadence.  Amber Dawn Schultheis...

Shopping

Intentional, Timeless, and Sustainable

Elisa Yip discusses her knitwear brand and the ideals that shape her business and design choices Article by Bree O'Brien | Photography by Phillip Bailey and Jessica Garcia Born and raised in New York City, Elisa Yip had been in the fashion world for over 20 years before launching Sskein (pronounced skan) in 2020. "I left Nordstrom during Covid and this was the perfect opportunity to finally create my own brand," she says. Yip runs the company from Bellevue now, and has built up a devoted...

Home + Design

Statement in Structure and Style

Vision, precision, and quiet boldness Article by Courtney Evans | Photography by Matthew Gallant of Clarity NW Photography In a market where luxury can sometimes feel predictable, true distinction is rare. One newly completed residence stands apart, not because it is louder or larger, but because it is intentional. At the center of that intention is Max Rombakh, the number one real estate agent in Kirkland, whose role in this project extended far beyond representation. The land has been in...

Food + Beverage

Gluten-Free Granola

A wholesome, simple treat that will make your home smell heavenly Article by Amber Dawn Schultheis | Photography by Dawning Memories This Gluten-Free Granola recipe will fill your home with an amazing fragrance of toasted oats, pecans, and vanilla and is sure to please even the pickiest breakfast guests.  The best part of making homemade granola is knowing exactly what's in it, how long it's been stored, and you can feel good about indulging in something wholesome and delicious. Also, it's...

Home + Design

Built for Ease

How John Buchan Homes Creates Custom Residences That Perform Quietly Every Day Article by Susie Naficy You have spent your career designing systems that are elegant under pressure. You value clarity, reliability, and solutions that disappear into the background because they work exactly as intended. A strategically designed home can deliver that same effect. When done well, it amplifies your energy, simplifies daily routines, and turns ordinary moments into seamless experiences. This...