Life + Culture

From the Publisher ...

Article and Photography by I can’t believe I’m sitting here writing the last letter for 2024. I know we say this often, but I really feel like this year just flew by. As I look back at all the issues from 2024, I am amazed at all the stories we were able to share, the partners who’ve helped me grow this publication, and of course, my amazing team behind the scenes who put in so much work.  As you read through this issue about local gift ideas, how to dress for the season parties, and a local...

Shopping

Gift Guide Goes Local

Support Local With One of These Great Finds Article by Michelle Glicksman | Photography by Submitted Scottsdale Travel Poster Mixed media poster created with adventure in mind, Kim Lyon Design. $65-$275. KimLyonDesign.com   Arcadia Tennis Shop Private Label Cashmere V-Neck Sweater Sustainably and ethically sourced, ATS Private Label. $150. ArcadiaTennisShop.com   Sacred Flames Premium candles, with scents to spark a memory, Cyan Candle Co., $40-$42. CyanCandle.com   ...

Style + Beauty

Gorgeous Gowns

Never Turn Down a Holiday Gala Invitation When You Can Wear One of These Stunning Gowns Photography by Provided Oscar De La Renta:  Orchid Threadwork Mini Shift Dress Make a statement this holiday season in the Oscar de la Renta semi-sheer dress, adorned with exquisite orchid threadwork embroidery and an elegant jewel neckline—a perfect blend of sophistication and artistry. $8,990. Available to order at Neiman Marcus Scottsdale or  NeimanMarcus.com   Greta Constantine : Omnia This...

Arts + Culture

What is Your Favorite Holiday Memory?

We Asked, They Answered Photography by Provided As we head into the holiday season, we reached out and asked some of our advertising partners one question. Here's what they had to say.   Ted Mausbach Jr Insurance Agent, American Family Insurance "My favorite holiday memory was from 2004. My wife and I were celebrating our first Christmas as a married couple. We had found out a few weeks prior that we were expecting our first child. We kept it a secret until Christmas when we surprised...

Event Planning + Services

Hosting for the Holidays

The Secrets to Making Your Holiday Parties Memorable—While Enjoying Them Yourself Article by Georgann Yara | Photography by Courtesy Vermilion Events and Design Tis the season for holiday cheer. It’s also the season for holiday hosting, which can be overwhelming. However, it doesn’t have to be.  “If you enjoy the party, your guests are going to enjoy it. If you’re stressed, they're going to see that and feel that,” says David Twigger, creative founder and director of the award-winning...

Beauty

All A-Glow

The Bachelor Alum and Influencer Lauren Luyendyk Launches New Collection for CMYK Cosmetics Article by Georgann Yara | Photography by Provided Lauren Luyendyk catapulted to fame as a contestant in the 22nd season of The Bachelor , who ultimately won the heart of champion auto racing pro Arie Luyendyk. Today, the married couple of nearly six years call the Valley home with their three children, ages 5 and 3 (twins).  Luyendyk is also a beloved and high-profile influencer and businesswoman...

Auto + Marine

Entry-Level Luxury

The Mercedes CLA250 4Matic Defines the German Marque's Quality and Standards Article by Rebecca L. Rhoades | Photography by Provided The CLA-class sedan is the first rung on the ladder of Mercedes-Benz ownership. But while it may be looked upon as an entry-level model, it still offers the same sense of luxury and quality that’s associated with the brand’s top-of-the-line vehicles. In fact, the 2020 model was named a MotorTrend Car of the Year finalist. The 2024 CLA250 doesn’t tweak much from...

Finance + Legal Services

Navigating Slip and Fall Cases

Slip and fall cases may seem trivial, until you find yourself on the wrong end of a slippery surface. Let's dive in to understand what slip and fall entails in the eyes of the law, explore real-world examples, and discover when it's crucial to seek the guidance of a personal injury lawyer.What is Slip and Fall in Legal Terms?Slip and fall, legally known as premises liability, refers to situations where an individual is injured on someone else's property due to hazardous conditions. Property...

Education

Stories & Stripes

World War II Veteran Sam Baker is on the Front Lines of Childhood Literacy Article by By Rebecca L. Rhoades | Photography by Danielle Muccillo Sam Baker is a storyteller at heart. And at 102 years old, the former Marine, World War II veteran, scientist, and world’s first GPS salesman has plenty of tales to tell. The Scottsdale centenarian has come a long way from the cotton farms of Clarksdale, Mississippi, where he was born in 1922. Even when he was a child, stories were an important part of...

Home Services

Helping Hands

The All-Volunteer-Run Nonprofit Neighbors Helping Neighbors Scottsdale Provides No-Fuss Aid to Charitable Causes in Need Article by Georgann Yara | Photography by Provided Giving assistance and support to others in need shouldn’t be difficult. And for 12 years, that simple premise has proved to make a powerful and invaluable difference as the driving force of Neighbors Helping Neighbors Scottsdale, an entirely volunteer-run nonprofit.  Through contributions in the form of finances, hours, and...