Finance + Legal Services

Navigating the Financial World

A First-Time Investor’s Guide to Success Article by Crystal Long | Photography by Provided by Omar Chyou When it comes to investing, especially as a first-timer, things might get a little overwhelming. Between all the seemingly foreign financial jargon and various strategies, starting to invest might seem daunting. However, with the proper guidance, navigating the financial landscape can be empowering and rewarding. In this issue, we speak with  Omar Chyou, Senior Vice President of Wealth...

Home + Design

Move-In-Ready Homes Vs. Tackling Renovations

Realtor Yelena Vayn Reflects On Juggling Real Estate Career And Home Remodel As First-Time Homeowner Article by Julie Brown Patton | Photography by Albena Ilieva Photography Bay Area Realtor Yelena Vayn practices what she preaches to clients. While house hunting in 2024, she and her husband, Igor Sydorenko, fell in love with the character and views from their 1950s-built home in Walnut Creek. But they knew it needed work, TLC, and updates. “I often tell clients that buying a home is just the...

Home + Design

Spruce Up Your Home for Spring

Simple Tips + Staging Insights Article by Lindsey Hickman | Photography by Provided by Ana Gonzalez Spring is a season of renewal, and what better time to breathe fresh life into your home? Whether you're preparing to sell, planning to entertain guests, or just craving a change, spring offers the perfect opportunity to revitalize your space. Ana Gonzalez of A&A Studio Staging & Design offers a few simple tweaks and a touch of creativity to help you transform your home into a welcoming haven...

Finance + Legal Services

Estate Planning Essentials

Ensure your assets are protected and your wishes honored with a solid estate plan. Article by Nathan Pastor | Photography by Aika Cardin Photography Having a solid estate plan is the key to securing a future for you and your family. Three cornerstones of solid estate planning are creating a will or trust to ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes, having powers of attorney so that someone else has the authority to make decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so...

Health + Wellness

Empowering Magic and Hope

Celebrating the Diabetes Youth Families Gala  Article by Doris Hobbs  | Photography by Rachel Capil Photography Each year, the Diabetes Youth Families (DYF) Gala shines as a beacon of hope for children and families affected by type 1 diabetes. What began as a small organization supporting children with diabetes has since grown into a community-driven initiative that empowers those facing this lifelong condition. Since 1938, DYF has been dedicated to creating a safe space where children with...

Education

Raising Financially Savvy Kids

How to Teach Smart Money Habits Early Article by Neale Godfrey | Photography by Provided by Neale Godfrey Even in these challenging times when we are so distracted, we need to keep parenting.  And it's more important than ever to ensure we are the parents we want to be.  Why? Because if we don't set our kids up for success, we set them up for failure. It's not easy to teach money lessons you may not have learned. And because of this, you may unknowingly support the "I want, I want" syndrome. ...

Beauty

Celebrate Strength and Beauty

Participate in a Transformational Makeover Contest Article by Walnut Creek City Lifestyle Editorial | Photography by Provided by Dr. Amela Hozic Walnut Creek City Lifestyle is excited to team up with Dr. Amela Hozic at Ellevi MedSpa to bring a heartfelt initiative to life—a makeover contest dedicated to celebrating the strength and resilience of women in our community.   Inspired by empowerment and transformation, this contest was created to uplift a woman who has faced significant challenges...

Life + Culture

The Art of Feng Shui

Ancient Wisdom for Modern Living Spaces Article by Janie Basile The art of feng shui originated in China more than 3,000 years ago. While an ancient philosophy, it works exceedingly well in modern life. The premise is simple – when you spend time in spaces that make you feel comfortable and at ease, your outlook is typically more optimistic.  Feng shui is not just an ancient philosophy, but a practical tool that helps you focus on the energy or chi in your environment. When incorporated into...

Arts + Culture

A Stroll Through History

Discover Walnut Creek's Past on a Walking Tour Article by Linda Ditch | Photography by Provided by Walnut Creek Historical Society Living in an area full of attractions makes it easy to miss the fascinating history around you every day. The Walnut Creek Historical Society has an answer to that problem with monthly downtown historical walks. These tours will show you how to recognize the town's past in today's modern buildings. The Historical Society's docent, Linda Scotting, has led tours for...

Arts + Culture

From Passion to Purpose

Curating Sustainable Style: Inside Elsie Green’s Vintage Philosophy Article by Walnut Creek City Lifestyle Editorial Team | Photography by Aika Cardin Elsie Green isn't just a shop—it's a philosophy. This family-run business transforms homes with thoughtfully curated vintage pieces while championing eco-conscious living. In this issue, we speak to Laurie Furber, the founder and owner of Elsie Green, whose journey from aspiring museum curator to merchandising maven inspired a business built on...