Style + Beauty

A Gentleman’s Guide to Holiday Jewelry Shopping

With Expert Insights Article by Laurel Kellam | Photography by Justin Winkokur When it comes to holiday shopping, jewelry often tops the list of meaningful gifts—and yet, for many men, the process of picking the perfect piece can feel intimidating. Between endless sparkle and price tags that span every budget, it’s easy to get lost in the shine. That’s where local jewelry expert Thanh Tran, the owner of Cate Jewelry, steps in. With years of experience and an eye for design, she helps...

Local Services

The Bridge Between Abundance and Need

White Pony Express Saves Quality Food from Going to Waste Article by Linda Ditch | Photography by Provided by White Pony Express In a world where millions go hungry while tons of perfectly good food are discarded, one Contra Costa County nonprofit is proving that compassion and efficiency can rewrite the story of waste. White Pony Express — founded in 2013 by the late Dr. Carol Weyland Conner — is a nonprofit dedicated to eliminating hunger and poverty. Entirely volunteer-powered, this...

Home + Design

Naturally Festive

Bringing Holiday Warmth to Your Home and Table Article by Walnut Creek City Lifestyle Team | Photography by McKenna Ingram This holiday season, move away from synthetic sparkle and toward the quiet elegance of nature.  In this issue, Walnut Creek City Lifestyle spoke with two experts who shared their thoughts on transforming your space and table with natural, seasonal elements. Kim Berry, owner of White Barn Home in Lafayette. For Berry, life on the ranch isn’t just a lifestyle—it’s an...

Food + Beverage

Wassail

A Toast to Tradition Article by Laurel Kellam | Photography by Stock Photos Wassail traces its roots back to medieval England, where villagers would go “wassailing” —visiting neighbors and orchards to sing, offer good cheer, and share a hot spiced cider as a symbol of health and prosperity. The word “wassail” itself comes from the Old English phrase “waes hael,” meaning “be well.” Over time, this comforting drink became a cherished holiday tradition, often served at Christmas and New...

Home + Design

Making Space: ADUs for Modern Living

Q&A with Lili Weigert Article by Walnut Creek City Lifestyle | Photography by Provided by Lili Weigert Freelance writer Lili Weigert first started her career at the National Geographic magazine, but she has always been fascinated with how spaces affect human moods and lifestyles. In this issue, we talk about her latest book, Making Space: ADUs for Modern Living. 1) What first drew you to the world of ADUs?  The first time I heard the term ADU (accessory dwelling unit) was in 2021, when...

Food + Beverage

Healthy Holiday Treats!

No-Bake Peanut Butter Fudge Caramel “Brownies” Article and Photography by Dr. Ari Katz Base Layer 10 Medjool dates, pitted ½ cup natural peanut butter  (no added sugar or oil) 3 tablespoons high-quality cacao powder 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Caramel Layer ½ cup natural peanut butter  (no added sugar or oil)  — or your preferred nut butter ¼ cup pure maple syrup 2 tablespoons coconut oil Pinch of salt Toppings (optional but highly recommended) Sprinkle on top: ...

Local Services

The Local Gift And Giving Guide

Thoughtful Gifts, Local Charm and Lasting Joy. Article by Laurel Kellam | Photography by Stock Photos Skip the big-box chaos this season — our Holiday Gift and Giving Guide celebrates experiences, memberships, and meaningful finds from right here in our region. Whether you’re shopping for him, her, or the whole family, these locally loved spots make it easy to give with heart.   For Him Sunday Swing – Moraga Moraga Shopping Center, Moraga Way Suite D , Moraga | ...

Home + Design

Creating Space for Connection

A Kitchen Made for Gathering Article by Gordon Reese Design Build | Photography by Marilyn Cunningham Photography A client who came to  Gordon Reese Design Build  described their existing kitchen as a “bunker”—closed off, dark, and disconnected from the rest of the home. They dreamed of a space that would feel open, welcoming, and perfect for hosting family and friends during the holidays. The team turned that vision into a reality by adding about 200 square feet to their home, opening the...

Life + Culture

More Than Hair

A Stylist’s Story of Resilience, Risk-Taking, and Gratitude Article by Lindsey Hickman | Photography by Simone Rotman For Renée Ludlow, a hair stylist, makeup artist, and hair extension specialist at Salon Hanover, beauty has always been about more than what’s on the surface. It’s about creativity, connection, and the power of transformation. “I’ve always been a creative person at heart,” Ludlow says. “I started out studying photography at The Art Institute of Boston before realizing I needed...

Life + Culture

Community, Family, and Connection:

What Walnut Creek Businesses Are Thankful For Article by Walnut Creek City Lifestyle | Photography by Stock Photos In the spirit of thankfulness and appreciation, the Walnut Creek City Lifestyle team has compiled heartfelt gratitude wishes from some of our advertisers.  Each of them shares what truly brightens their world. From the warmth of community bonds to the unwavering support of colleagues and the love of family, these wishes beautifully illustrate the many facets of thankfulness.  ...