Home + Design

Loving Where You Live

Alyssa Warring of Wren House Design knows how to make a home. Article by Florence Daniels | Photography by Hold Fast Visuals Coming home a sigh is released, a bag is set down, and shoes are kicked off. Who doesn't feel a sense of relief upon coming home? Yet that sense of calm can be further enhanced in a home that is artfully designed, blending elements of contemporary style that is also tailored to your lifestyle . Alyssa Warring, owner of Wren House Design, understands this response, the...

Local Services

Flower Power

A simple touch of beauty has profound effects. Article by Florence Daniels | Photography by Hold Fast Visuals Most people, when they see a bouquet of flowers on a table, may often wonder what the occasion is. Susan Johnson of Cottage Flowers and Gifts says you shouldn't wait for a special day or event, instead she firmly believes in flowers for any day, even every day flowers. Anyone who receives flowers, argues Susan, 'even if you have a bad day, they bring joy because of why and who gave...

Life + Culture

Home Is Where Your Family Flocks

Have your chickens check in to the Chick Inn Coops. Article by Tiffany Mraz | Photography by Hold Fast Visuals At first, you might think a tiny backyard house with Victorian-style architecture, a steep gabled roof, beautiful large windows complete with a flower box and front deck is a high end “she shed”. That is until builder Alex Verkruijsse opens up the nesting boxes. “This is where they automatically know to go into and then lay their eggs.” The impressive house is a designer chicken coop...

Education

Homework That Helps

Purpose, routine, and the right space. Article by Jennifer Revolt | Photography by Jenny Kaufman We’ve all been there … homework chaos! Homework is a hotly contested issue with considerable pros and cons. Some argue that all work should be done at school and that home should be solely for family/free time. Others argue that homework has the ability to reinforce or extend and enrich what is being taught at school. No matter which side of the debate you find yourself on, I hope to share some...

Local Services

Landscapes That Last

How thoughtful planting helps Queen Creek yards flourish beyond spring. Article by Michelle Talsma Everson | Photography by Arizona Municipal Water Users Association In Queen Creek, outdoor living shapes daily life. Morning walks begin before the sun crests the San Tan Mountains, backyard dinners stretch past sunset, and front yards reflect personal style and pride. As spring settles in and temperatures rise, many homeowners are refreshing landscapes with an eye toward beauty that lasts...

Health + Wellness

Stronger At Home

Practical, physical therapist-approved ways to build strength without the gym. Article by Garrett Johnson | Photography by Jenny Kaufman As a physical therapist who also works in sports performance, I often remind patients and athletes that effective training doesn’t require fancy machines or a gym membership. With smart exercise selection and a bit of creativity, your home can become a powerful training environment. The Power of Bodyweight Training Bodyweight exercises are the foundation...

Local Services

Straight from the Heart

Jewelry is more than a sparkler, it's a memory you wear. Article by Florence Daniels | Photography by Alexxis Grant 'Jewelry is personal... it has to have a story to it.' says Murat Ozuzun, owner of The Local Jeweler, alongside his wife Jennifer. To them, there is no question of the intimate meaning of jewelry, a piece that we wear close to our bodies as an expression of love as much as it is of style. 'It's very emotional.' admits Jennifer. She says that watching her husband in action from...

Food + Beverage

Handcrafted Chocolate

Deliver some home made sweetness for the one you love. Article by Breann Vega Valentine’s Day is a time to enjoy the sweeter things in life. Love, companionship, and of course…chocolate. Enjoy treating your loved one to homemade chocolates with a twist. Choose a mold, choose a chocolate brand, melt and freeze – and voila – beautiful handcrafted chocolates that don’t break the bank. Don’t want to do the work yourself? Order with local, Breanna Vega and create your own magical Valentine’s...

Life + Culture

Love and Compromise

Three local couples reveal the lessons that keep their love strong. Article by Jared Orr | Photography by Jenny Kaufman Daniel and Tasha Cavaco After ten years of marriage, the Cavacos have discovered that their greatest strength comes from embracing their distinct roles. For Daniel, the key has been personal growth. "The biggest lesson I've learned is to focus on making yourself better," he says. Tasha's journey has taught her the power of partnership. "I've learned that I can't do it all...

Life + Culture

Teeing Up for Veterans

Taking a swing for a good cause. Article by Florence Daniels | Photography by Ashley Blake On a bright sunny day, the golf course at Encanterra Country Club is a paradise for the avid golfer. The Superstition Mountains are a stunning backdrop as James Weinmann takes a swing. Originally from Minnesota, he moved to Arizona in 2006, a far cry from the bitter cold of his home state. However, while James enjoys the warmer weather, he  first moved to Arizona for business reasons. Yet deciding to...