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Your Shopping Guide To Local Items This Thanksgiving Article by Sara DeMarcus | Photography by Lena Britt Photography Summerset Farms: 3450 Baseline Ave, SY The classic Pumpkin Patch experience. You can find mini pumpkins as well as giant statement piece pumpkins to adorn your doorstep, wowing all who visit. Solvang Olive Press: 463 Alisal Rd, Solvang Infused olive oils, balsamic, and more - we recommend the Neapolitan Herb Balsamic and Nocellara EVOO. Waylan Wine Co: 2963 Grand Ave...

Life + Culture

Freedom Isn't Free

A Lifetime of Gratitude For Our Local Veterans Article by Matt DeMarcus | Photography by Provided September 11, 2001. If you're like me, you remember where you were down to the minute the most significant terrorist attack happened on US soil. There is an unmeasurable ripple effect to that day and one is that many people say it was the most united the country has ever been. When something life-changing happens, the fight or flight response kicks in. In this moment, a kid from Montana...

Food + Beverage

Hostess with the Mostest

Tips & Tricks For Hosting a Successful Thanksgiving This Year Article by Devon Ranger | Photography by Lena Britt Photography Thanksgiving is more than just a meal—it is a celebration of gratitude, connection, and tradition. Whether you are a first-time host or a seasoned pro, this year's Thanksgiving presents an exciting opportunity to create something truly memorable. But the approach to hosting can differ greatly based on experience. Let’s explore the two perspectives of hosting...

Life + Culture

What Are You Thankful For?

A Snapshot Look Into Showing Gratitude This Thanksgiving Season Article by Sara DeMarcus | Photography by Provided Julie DeMarcus, Loan Officer at Trinity Financial My first and foremost blessing is my family. Married to Andy for 36 years this month, we have two amazing kids, Zach (30) and Nicole (27). They are the light of our lives. I’m thankful for our beautiful Valley. Having moved 6 times by the time I was 17, I never felt “part” of a community until moving to the Valley in 1991...

Life + Culture

From Their Farm, To Your Table...

Motley Crew Ranch Brings Regenerative Farming Home Sweet Home Article by Brianna Haley | Photography by Jasmine Gonzalez Tucked away on a sprawling 700 acre property, you will find a husband and wife who are fighting to provide their local community with direct access to local agriculture. I know that sounds like it should not be difficult in the Santa Ynez Valley, but ironically those “local” sections of our grocery stores just don’t seem to be that local anymore. The cost of producing...

Food + Beverage

Shrimp Fra Diavolo

A Spicy Twist on a Seafood Staple Article by Anna Vocino | Photography by Provided Fra diavolo means “the brother of the devil.” This sauce is often confused with arrabbiata sauce as they are both spicy, but traditionally, fra diavolo is made without pancetta. It’s perfect with shrimp or shellfish. Serves: 4  Ingredients: 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved (about 2 cups) 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided Salt and black pepper 1 medium onion, chopped 1 garlic clove, minced 1 teaspoon red...

Food + Beverage

Welcome to: The Good Life

Discover Rotating Wine and Beer Selections That You Won't Find Anywhere Else Article and Photography by Matt DeMarcus One of the SYV's most cherished traditions is our unwavering dedication to wine production. With nearly 300 different wineries, there’s always a risk of catching a case of choice paralysis or fatigue. But there in the heart of downtown Solvang, there is a place that prides itself on variety and the celebration of a local assortment of award-winning and world renown wines and...

Food + Beverage

Spooky Sips

This Halloween Twist On a Classic Will Be Sure to Treat Any Party Guest Article by Sarah Suput | Photography by Lena Britt Photography During the fun of Halloween, nothing can transform a cocktail faster than activated charcoal. The flavor remains unchanged and yet the darkened drink will add a special seasonal flair. Perfect for a party or even as a treat for two while the candy is passed out! Our take on a margarita has the ideal balance of spicy, sweet and salty. Be careful... You just...

Food + Beverage

Harvest 2024

From Our Ground, To Your Glass Article by Ryan Smith | Photography by Christian Rodriguez Keith Saarloos shares the evolution of his family’s journey from apple farmers to respected winemakers, a story marked by humor and perseverance. The heart of their tale unfolds each harvest, capturing their resilience and passion. In 1999, Larry and Linda Saarloos purchased an apple orchard in Ballard Canyon, hoping to supply a local market. Their dreams hit a harsh reality when the entire apple crop...

Home + Design

Flames in Fashion

Blending Tradition and Modernity with a Santa Ynez Valley Twist Article by Sara DeMarcus | Photography by Lena Britt Photography In the heart of the Santa Ynez Valley, where the sun-kissed hillsides whisper tales of old, resides a creator whose artistry blends the rugged spirit of the West with the free-spirited bohemian vibe of coastal living. Meet Natascha Ruiz, the passionate soul behind Flame Kissed, where each hat tells a story as unique as the hands that craft it. Pyrography, derived...