Health + Wellness

Longevity Retreat

Let go of the hustle of routine life and settle into a new world…one filled with empowering modalities, education, nutritional science, structured water, morning practices, longevity tools, movements, lymphatic massage, and peaceful moments of country living. January 16-19, 2025This 4-day event is held at a sacred space for healing in the foothills of Santa Barbara, CA.  Limited spaces available. Workshops include:Root Cause of IllnessMetabolic Health & WellnessFrequency...

Food + Beverage

A Simpler Thanksgiving

Guest chef Brittany Meadth’s menu and hosting tips Article by Samantha Durbin | Photography by Emily Merrill   Meet our gal for fresh, seasonal recipes, Brittany Meadth. A chef and mother of four, her family is large, and her extended family larger—she knows a thing or three about holiday cooking. Brittany’s found that delicate balance of preparing traditional dishes while avoiding laboring in the kitchen all day so she too can enjoy time with family and friends. She’s even successfully...

Home + Design

'Tis the Season for Tablescapes

Santa Barbara Picnic Co. brings coastal elegance to our picnic Article by Samantha Durbin | Photography by Emily Merrill Raise your hand if setting the table was one of your holiday tasks. If this was you begrudgingly, try taking it outside. That’s the idea Nicole Leza, founder and creative director of Santa Barbara Picnic Co., created her business around. And Santa Barbara, with arguably perfect weather, allows for the holidays and their grand meals to be celebrated outside. That’s something...

Life + Culture

CASA Volunteers Answer the Call

Step up to support youth in crisis Article by Tracy Marcynzsyn | Photography by Courtesy of CASA Many are surprised to learn that hundreds of children who have experienced abuse and neglect need assistance right here in Santa Barbara County. Each year, over 500 children receive help from dedicated volunteers who serve with CASA, Court-Appointed Special Advocates . The local nonprofit’s mission is to “assure a safe, permanent, nurturing home for every abused and/or neglected child by...

Arts + Culture

The Gift of Creativity

Holiday workshops and popups to spark the soul Article by Samantha Durbin | Photography by Sara Prince, Provided A creative workshop is a fun and therapeutic experience that can serve as a memorable gift. Or, you can extend an invitation to attend a holiday market with family or a friend to spend time together and support local makers. Here are some holiday workshops and markets that serve as gift ideas that think outside the box. Art Studio 4 Kids I’ll never forget the artwork my son...

Fitness

What Goes Around Comes Around

e-Bikery serves up community spirit Article by Tracy Marcynzsyn | Photography by Anelise Nascente It’s often said that necessity is the mother of invention, and such is the case with e-Bikery in Santa Barbara. Owners Fernando Tessari and Anelise Nascente discovered the need for a quality e-bike shop back in 2018 while she was attending Santa Barbara City College. “I purchased an electric bike for my daily commute to SBCC since it was hard to find a parking spot and parking was expensive,”...

Life + Culture

That Bottle to Bring

Good Land Wine Shop's Doug Trantow's host bottle recos (with tasting notes) Article and Photography by Samantha Durbin Good Land Wine Shop's only sells wines produced and grown in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties. Stop by, have a tasting, and pick up one of these recommended host bottles for your next gathering.  2) 2019 Sanguis "The Modern" Santa Maria Valley Syrah blend. "A purity to the fruit, you're tasting the place." ($77) 3) 2018 Penville Enz Vineyard Mourvedre from one of...

Arts + Culture

The Benefits of Working with a Master Craftsman for Custom Hardwood Furniture:

When it comes to furnishing your home, custom hardwood furniture offers an unparalleled combination of beauty, durability, and individuality. At the forefront of this craft is Keefrider Custom Furniture, where master craftsmanship meets innovative design. Working with a master craftsman like those at Keefrider ensures that your custom furniture is not just a functional piece but a lasting investment in your home. Here, we explore the benefits of commissioning custom hardwood furniture from a...

Life + Culture

A Local Foodie’s New(ish) Favorites

I run the Instagram @bitemesb, a collection of food, drinks, and businesses around town Article by Zoe Echternacht | Photography by Sara Prince, Viviana Contreras Gala has stolen my stomach since they opened. The food, service, and European al fresco dining create an ideal dining experience. Owners Tara (front of house) and her husband Jaime (chef) have poured their heart and soul into this restaurant. I even visited them for a glass of cava on my wedding day! With shareable Spanish-style...

Arts + Culture

Seascapes

Fine art photographer Will Pierce captures the grandness of the Pacific Article by Samantha Durbin | Photography by Emily Merrill and Will Pierce The first time Will Pierce showed his work to a local art gallery, the owner laughed at him. It was 2012. The owner suggested Will go to Summerland’s Porch to see if they’d be interested since they’d showcased local artists. The home goods store almost turned Will away until they looked through his little redwood box of photographs. On the spot...