Author: lindsay

A brilliantly grumpy detective, a lovably ragtag cold case team, and a razor-sharp script — Dept. Q gets an A+ from me! The irreverent British procedural (based on the Danish novels of the same name) follows Carl Morck, an acerbic Scottish detective recovering from a traumatic shooting, as he’s assigned to a dusty basement unit solving long-forgotten crimes. The casting is pitch perfect, the writing is smart, and the dry humor takes the edge off the decidedly dark material.

Where to watch: Free on Netflix

No vacation plans this summer? After watching this nightmare doc, you’ll feel very good about that! When a cruise ship loses power mid-voyage — and with it, all plumbing — 4,000+ passengers and crew are left stranded at sea in truly horrific conditions. (Translation: no toilets!) Most of the flick’s footage comes straight from passengers’ phones, making it part horror story, part human experiment, and 100% cringe-worthy — but also kind of a blast to watch from the comfort of your fully functioning home. (P.S. – The rest of the Trainwreck series is just as wildly entertaining.)

Where to watch: Free on Netflix

What happens when a grieving New York transit worker hires a quartet of fiery Italian grandmas — or nonnas — to cook in his new restaurant? Pure tear-jerking magic! Based on a true story, Nonnas serves up a heartwarming helping of nostalgia and charm. A tribute to second chances, late-in-life reinvention, and the unexpected friendships that form around a shared table, it’s definitive comfort viewing that will have you craving your mom’s Sunday Gravy — and maybe even some capuzzelle.

Where to watch: Free on Netflix

A ‘90s classic with surprise Coachella Valley cameos? Yes, please! Bugsy tells the story of mobster Benjamin Siegel, with several scenes shot right here in the desert! That “canker sore” of a casino Annette Bening’s character critiques mid-film? It’s actually the former George’s Men’s Store at 1667 6th Street in downtown Coachella — complete with movie signage still visible via Google Street View! The Flamingo Hotel set was built on a dusty patch near Ocotillo Wells, while cast and crew checked into the La Quinta Resort for the two-week shoot. News of the local connection inspired a rewatch — and good news, it still holds up!

Where to watch: Free on Hulu

This one surprised me! I went in knowing little about Barbara Walters (aside from that famous SNL parody) and left completely in awe. The inspiring doc charts her rise to the zeitgeist of television journalism, with Walters not just breaking barriers, but bulldozing right through them — blending news and pop culture in a way that changed broadcasting forever. Don’t miss the jaw-dropping moment when she secures an exclusive sit-down with Menachem Begin and Anwar Sadat, leaving Walter Cronkite and John Chancellor literally scrambling on a tarmac in her well-heeled dust.

Where to watch: Free on Hulu

I’ve never been a huge burger person, which explains why it took me so long to try Grill-A-Burger, despite its loyal following. The delay was a definite mistake because everything we ordered during my mom’s rehab stay, from burgers and hot dogs to fries and onion rings, was absolutely top-notch! The chicken strips — forever my meal of choice — were especially tasty! The menu is massive (they offer pretty much everything burger-adjacent), the service incredibly friendly, and the vibes kitschy in the best way. Safe to say, Grill-A-Burger has earned a spot in my regular rotation.

A new large-scale art installation has landed in Indio! The Messengers — two colorful, robot-like structures (or “idols”) standing about 75 feet tall — were originally created as a trio by Sri Lankan artist Kumkum Fernando for the 2023 Coachella festival. Now permanently installed at the corner of Towne Street and Bliss Avenue, they’re vibrant, whimsical, and inspired by the temples and palaces Fernando visited during his childhood in South Asia — bringing a beautifully worldly air to the Valley. (Fun fact: the third Messenger can be found at a private home nearby.)

From restaurateurs (and Ladies of London alums) Matt and Marissa Hermer comes the Thompson hotel’s newest dining venture, Bar Issi. Wrapped in warm blushes, lush greens, and striking patterns, the space — designed by Tom Parker of Fettle and inspired by both The White Lotus and the Madonna Inn — is absolutely stunning! And the Italian-inspired menu is equally impressive. I visited for lunch, which means I (tragically) missed out on the housemade puccia bread and trio of butters that’s become an Instagram staple — but I plan to rectify that stat!

Pretty much everyone who walks into Kaylie Nicole’s El Paseo boutique comments on the mesmerizing scent — a divinely intoxicating blend of all-natural cardamom, cinnamon, iris, and sandalwood that lingers in the best way. And now, you can bring it home! The shop’s new signature fragrance line includes candles, diffuser oil, room spray, and an insanely nourishing whipped body butter! I snapped up a jar of the latter recently and am obsessed! My skin has seriously never felt (or smelled) better!

A dynamic new space celebrating local talent has arrived in Indio! Community marketplace The Place is absolutely massive and packed with some of the best locally made goods the Valley has to offer. Nearly all of my favorites are there — including Mijo Co. candles (their pop-up, pictured, looks like an album cover!), Covet fine jewelry, Bobo Design Studio stationery, Jewelry by SARAHI baubles, It Refillspersonal care products, Palm Springs Bottle Shop spirits, and a beautifully curated display by Studio Hang. It’s a true one-stop shop for all of the Valley’s best finds!

The JW is the only resort in the desert where you can take a boat to dinner, thanks to a 239-million gallon lake that winds through the grounds. The unbelievably vast and picturesque waterway is populated by fish, fountains, flamingos, and a fleet of manned electric boats tasked with ferrying guests around the grand property, including to each of the seven on-site eateries. The colossal basin also delivers some truly breathtaking views. There’s nothing else quite like it in the Valley!

If these walls could talk! The resort’s aptly named Sinatra Ballroom is where the celebrated crooner’s final performance took place on February 25, 1995, as part of his annual Celebrity Invitational golf tournament. Singing a 6-song set that capped off with The Best Is Yet to Come, Ol’ Blue Eyes is said not to have missed “a word or note!” The ballroom, which spans an incredible 25,000 square feet, is the Valley’s largest and remains the stuff of legend today with 21-foot ceilings, a fittingly blue motif, and a striking dimensional portrait of Sinatra greeting guests at the entrance.

The JW Marriott stuns from the moment one steps through the doors into the dramatic, eight-story atrium-like lobby — complete with an indoor boat landing and soaring walls of floor-to-ceiling glass that frame panoramic views of the lake and grounds, especially breathtaking at sunset as the water reflects the desert light. Pro tip: enjoy the scene with a Sinatra Smash (the lobby bar’s signature cocktail) in hand. (Free samples are even offered upon request.) Bonus: The grand space served as a wedding venue for Jessie Spano’s dad in a 1991 episode of Saved by the Bell.

The Marriott is home to a charming menagerie of animals, most notably a flamboyant flock of exotic birds. Near the resort entrance, Flamingo Island draws the spotlight with more than 30 friendly Chilean flamingos strutting, splashing, and posing for guests. Venture just beyond the lobby and you’ll discover the Desert Springs Aviary — a lush, two-room sanctuary filled with vibrant personalities, including Max the cockatoo, Romeo the eclectus, and Scarlet the macaw — all known for their bright feathers and even brighter conversation skills.

The resort’s 20-court Tennis Club is impressive on its own, but its crown jewel is the sunken grass stadium court, a true rarity in the desert. The mammoth arena even stood in for Wimbledon in HBO’s 2015 comedy 7 Days in Hell, filmed over the courseof two blistering 110-degree days in July. (Not exactly peak playing conditions!) While summer matches aren’t for the faint of heart, the club is a true gem during the season, so it’s no surprise the JW is regularly ranked among the top 10 tennis resorts in the world.

Yes! In grade school, I was always the kid who matched her shorts with her top, wore hats and cowboy boots, cut her hair super short (yes, I was first to rock the androgynous look). In high school, I was very involved in our annual fashion shows. I was also the high school photographer with goals of possibly going into fashion photography. From there, I went to Ryerson University and obtained a BA in Fashion Merchandising/Buying.

I had worked for so many big-box retailers in the USA and realized they were essentially all the same and I was no longer growing and learning. Opening my own store was always my end-goal, the corporate gigs were used to learn – and make money, of course. When I met my husband in 2014, he urged me to “just do it already.”

In our heads, we thought Roam.e would be for younger girls, more of a junior customer. Then, when we’d go on the truck and vend at farmers’ markets and fairs, we realized that busy moms were really the ones who needed us. They didn’t have the time to go grocery shopping and then to the mall for clothes. Hence, our assortment grew up a little, providing fashionable and functional clothes for the busy “cool mom.” Back then, we’d focus on athleisure with a sprinkling of printed dresses and casual work attire. Now, being in the desert, I’ve dropped athleisure from our assortment and pumped up the printed dresses and resort wear. Since the majority of our clientele are tourists, I feel that novelty items are what they’re looking for. They can find basic tees and joggers anywhere. When you’re on vacation, you want something different – something that reminds you of where you’ve been. So the assortment is focused more on providing a memory and a feeling that you can’t get back home. Locally made items, merchandise with desert vibes, fun and happy prints. I want the customer to remember us and the feeling they had when they visited La Quinta. It really is such a magical place!

Living in L.A.  during my single years and with my husband, we always came to the desert for mini-vacations. I’d come with a group of girlfriends or with my husband and have such great memories. My husband and I always knew that the desert was where we eventually wanted to be. So when COVID lockdowns hit, we thought, ‘O.K., now’s the time to do it.’ So we sold our L.A. house and came here full-time.

Our realtor knew I owned a shop in the “mom-pop” friendly town of Montrose. So he brought us to Old Town. It was so perfect. I immediately saw Roam.e’s next home. The quaintness, the absence of big-box retailers and chain restaurants, the charm and specialness of it. I knew this was where I needed/wanted to be.

My style philosophy has always been casual but not dowdy. As Leeza Gibbons put it (yes, she was in and did say this!), it’s “elevated casual.” Comfort is always my #1 priority. And then you add some style to it and it’s a win-win in my eyes. Roam.e is exactly that. Oh, and with an added bit of whimsy, because hey, you’re on vacation!

I’m in love with our cork lid candles from Sunsets Co. Not only because they smell great and are in a beautiful vessel, but most importantly, they’re made by my part-timer Leslie Delgado. I love supporting local artisans and crafters, especially one so close to home. I love it when Leslie is able to say to the customer, “Hey, I made this.” It just adds to the uniqueness of our store and our offerings.

I often go to local farmers’ markets and craft fairs. If I see that someone’s product will fit in the store, then I immediately ask them if they’d want to sell to us wholesale. It comes from my days of being on the truck in L.A. These crafters were friends to us. Many of them still are.

Sunsets Co. candles, Mijo Co. candles (pictured) and J.May Clay earrings are three of my best-selling lines.

When people come back to us year after year. When they remember us and make it a point to stop by as soon as they get back into town. That warms my heart. The most surprising part is when it clears out after Memorial Day. When they say it’s dead here, it really is. Feast or famine.

Start small, get your feet wet first and test the waters. Then, when you know something is working, dive right in and do more of that. It’s a combo of risk-taking and being smart. Mistakes are inevitable, pivot when necessary.

Looking up at the night sky. Seeing the stars and the mountains. It’s really magical.

Oh, I have a few of them . . . Neil’s Lounge for their burgers and onion rings, Enzo’s for their pasta, and RD RNNR (pictured) for their ahi tuna nachos.

I tell everyone who comes here to go to the La Quinta Resort (pictured). Talk about magical! That place is unlike any resort in the country. It’s so charming and unique! Dinner outside at the Adobe Grill during the fall or spring is so special, especially at sunset and at night under the stars.

With an all-star cast and Clooney and Pitt at their movie-star best, this 2001 caper classic never gets old. Though mostly set and filmed in Las Vegas, a swanky Old Las Palmas pad logs some prominent screen time as Elliott Gould’s Sin City estate — its retro rock walls and sprawling yard beautifully showcased throughout. In real life, the 1957 mid-century gem was designed by A. Quincy Jones for controversial Chicago businessman Jerome Robinson (aka “Mr. Parking Meter”) and is now known as the Jerome J. Robinson House.

Where to watch: Free on Netflix

This true-life drama, based on the 2000 kidnapping and murder of West Hills teen Nicholas Markowitz, is dark, but captivating. And it features some stellar desert locales, including the E. Stewart Williams-designed Koerner Residence and the storied Caliente Tropics Resort, which boasts its very own true crime ties! The tiki-themed property was initially established by Ken Kimes, husband of murderous con woman Sante Kimes, aka the “Dragon Lady,” and father of her co-conspirator, Kenneth Jr.

Where to watch: Rent on Prime, Apple TV & Google Play

This 2022 Diane Keaton comedy — in which a 30-something is magically transformed into her 70-something self — is cheesy, feel-good fun in all the right ways. (Don’t let the somewhat slow start deter you.) While most of the film takes place in L.A., a few key scenes were shot right here in the desert. Keaton’s magical transformation takes place in a past life regression tent set up in an empty lot next to Copley’s, and Birba makes a brief but memorable cameo as an oh-so-Palm Springs bachelorette brunch spot.

Where to watch: Free on Hulu

This heartwarming doc explores Frank Sinatra’s longtime love affair with the desert — from his generous philanthropic work to the many homes he kept throughout the valley. It also highlights his favorite local haunts, some of which, like Melvyn’s, The Purple Room, and Lord Fletcher’s, are still around today! (The latter has been closed for several years, but its iconic interior remains intact — and it was recently purchased by new owners with plans to reopen!) The film is a nostalgic look at Palm Springs’ golden era — and the joy Sinatra found here.

Where to watch: Free on Prime Video

This reality series and the motel at its center spark serious joy for this pink-loving viewer. Cheeky and whimsical, the show follows drag queen and RuPaul’s Drag Race favorite Trixie Mattel and her partner as they transform a rundown Palm Springs motel into a cotton candy-colored dreamland, with help from local design expert (and my friend!) David Rios. For the full Trixie experience, grab a day pass to lounge by the pool — then head to the fabulously pink Barbara Bar for a post-swim cocktail or two. (Reservations required.)

Where to watch: Free on HBO Max

After fueling the Valley’s matcha obsession via a year and a half of wildly popular pop-ups, the beloved Buena Matcha has found a permanent home on El Paseo! The new space, beautifully styled by Hagit Taylor Design, is chic and welcoming – and serves up what is easily the finest organic ceremonial grade matcha in town, each drink hand-crafted by Nahum and Kayla and their expert team. The shop is already insanely popular, but don’t let the long lines deter you. Buena Matcha is worth the wait!

As part of its ongoing expansion project, the Palm Springs Air Museum recently unveiled its new facade — and it is stunning! Designed by HED, which took cues from both the Pearl Harbor National Memorial and the Air Force Academy’s Cadet Chapel, the eye-catching edifice reimagines the museum’s entrance via a series of midcentury-esque turbine-inspired columns. The striking update brings the beloved landmark into the modern era while still honoring the rich history of flight.

Opened last fall on the grounds of The Skylark hotel, this newish Coastal American eatery promptly earned a cult following and snagged a Diner’s Choice award from OpenTable – and it’s not very hard to see why. I recently popped in for breakfast and devoured both the swanky décor and the delectable fare (Parmesan Egg Skillet, anyone?). With a lineup of craft cocktails and an elevated menu — including what is said to be the best burger in town — the place is a fabulous addition to the Palm Springs dining scene.

My favorite Palm Springs gift destination just became even more fabulous with the debut of its highly anticipated sister store, Just Fabulous Home. Located kitty-corner from the original in the Shops at the Corridor complex, the boutique is housed in a charming former bungalow teeming with playful, design-forward finds sure to complement any abode. From books and barware to cooking tools and candles, it’s a fabulous place to pick up a thoughtful hostess gift — or a little something for yourself.

There’s pretty much nothing I love more than an independent coffee house done right. So I was devastated when Palm Desert gem D’Coffee Bouteaque was razed in a fire last April. But I’m happy to report that the café is back — and better than ever. Now in a new location, it still offers the same extravagantly whimsical ambiance, friendly service, and wildly creative menu (Oreo Lover’s Latte, Candy Cane Mocha, Lavender Field Cold Brew — oh my!). The re-opening marks a happy return for a cherished café that continues to serve up charm, one mismatched vintage cup at a time.

This charming boutique in Old Town La Quinta is more than just a destination for boho-chic clothing—it’s also a treasure trove of locally crafted goods. From hand-printed cards and artisan jewelry to playful cactus slippers and embroidered caps, Roam.e is packed with gift-worthy finds – and a few things you’ll likely want to keep for yourself.

WHAT TO BUY:
Mijo Co. candles, smudge bundles from Botanical Verbiage, La Quinta tees, and La Quinta onesies for the local littles in your life.

This downtown Palm Springs emporium has long been one of my favorite places to browse—and yes, it really is just fabulous. From hilariously irreverent greeting cards to quirky desert-themed gifts, every corner holds something that’ll make you LOL. Bonus: their new sister home décor shop, located in the same plaza, is packed with desert-inspired treasures to brighten up any space.

WHAT TO BUY:
Rappi tees, Gray Malin puzzles, and Greg Paprocki prints and magnets.

If you can’t find the perfect locally made gift here, it might not exist. This sprawling 10,000-square-foot marketplace is packed with handcrafted desert-inspired treasures—from clothing and skincare to key chains and cocktails. It’s one of my go-to spots whenever I’m in in need of gift inspo for a stylish friend with great taste.

WHAT TO BUY:
Mijo Co. candles, any and all souvenirs from Opal Atlas, Pioneertown Motel tees, Las Palmas Pilsner, and Molly Moon apothecary products.

Brought to you by the folks behind Windmill City Screen Printing, this downtown PS boutique is a celebration of local design and craftsmanship. Most of what you’ll find here—think totes, tees, postcards, and hats—is printed in-house by the team that supplies merch for just about every area brand. You’ll also find a curated mix of locally made foods, skincare, and giftable goods.

WHAT TO BUY:
Joshua Tree Candle Co. candles, Very Very’s “Other Desert Cities” tees, and Wonder Valley skincare.

A domestic goddess I am definitely not—but walking into this local landmark makes me feel like one. Curated by culinary expert and spirited foodie Jan Boydstun, Kitchen Kitchen is bursting with top-notch kitchen goods and gourmet treats, many of them locally made and all personally tested by Jan herself. It’s my go-to spot for food-centric gifts with a personal touch you won’t find anywhere else in the desert.

WHAT TO BUY:
Desert Dust seasoning, Tutu’s Tortilla Chips, and “Real Housewives” tea towels—featuring every Coachella Valley city from Indio to Palm Springs.

This beloved desert brand has one of the sweetest origin stories around—literally. What began as a school fundraiser by two local teens has grown into a full-blown valley icon, known for producing some of the most addictive toffee you’ll ever taste. With locations in Rancho Mirage, Palm Springs, Cabazon, and kiosks throughout the area, grabbing a tin is a must for any desert-themed care package.

WHAT TO BUY:
Toffee Bites, Popcorn and Crumbles. (As mentioned in a recent newsletter, the latter is a staple in my house.)

Indio’s Bob Williams Nursery is entering a fresh era! The longtime local staple was recently acquired by new owners and rebranded as Madison Gardens – and given a glow-up to match! With updated displays and greenhouses, tranquil seating areas, pottery in every size, shape and color, and an adorable build-your-own arrangement bar, change certainly looks good on the four-acre garden center!  The locale also now offers design services for all of your landscaping needs.

I recently embarked upon a walking tour of the Movie Colony led by my internet friend, Jen Leavitt, a docent with the PS Historical Society. Though I consider myself well-versed in local history (especially when it comes to celebrity lore), I learned an incredible amount thanks to Jen’s wildly engaging and insightful commentary. The Society offers a range of biking and walking experiences through the city’s most iconic areas, sure to appeal to first-time visitors and longtime locals alike. With the heat setting in, only bike and private tours are currently available, but when Jen’s walks resume in the fall, I’ll be first in line!

This treat from beloved local confectioner Brandini Toffee has become a household favorite. Made of flaky, chocolately almond toffee crumbled into tiny bits, it’s the perfect topping for everything from a foamy latte to a scoop of ice cream to a whipped cream-dappled pie.  But it’s just as easily enjoyed straight from the fridge! My husband, the sweet tooth of our home, is known to sneak a spoonful right out of the jar when he’s craving a sugary midnight snack.

Looking for things to do as temps heat up? Rancho Mirage Library has you covered with a slew of free indoor activities for desert dwellers of all ages. This week alone, you’ll find two Observatory Exploration Nights, a reading session with therapy dogs, two youth theatre performances of Honk! JR., and a Dungeons & Dragons meet-up. Last fall, my mom and I attended one of the library’s fabulous Writers Series, where West Wing stars Melissa Fitzgerald and Mary McCormack discussed and signed free copies of their best-selling book What’s Next and posed for photos with everyone in attendance!

I didn’t expect my first-ever Trivia Night to end in victory – but that’s exactly what happened at The Local on 50th! My husband and I popped into the Indio eatery for the first time last week and ended up walking away trivia champs! Hosted by comedian Dacoda Miracle, the evening was an absolute blast, matched only by the standout fare. I was genuinely torn between several items on the menu (a rare occurrence for this picky eater), but went with the chicken strips, which were easily some of the best I’ve ever had! Safe to say, The Local is officially a new favorite!

This hotel has long been my family’s favorite staycation spot! With gorgeous grounds, dramatic views, over 40 pools, and an array of restaurants and shops, there is plenty to soak up and enjoy. But for me, it’s all about the history! Established back in 1926 – five decades before LQ was incorporated! – the property became so iconic that the city was eventually named after it! Frank Capra wrote It’s a Wonderful Life here, Greta Garbo made it her desert retreat, and Ginger Rogers got married on-site. The hotel is also home to Adobe Grill, where you’ll find my favorite meal in the entire Valley – the unparalleled Enchiladas Verdes.

When it comes to coffee and baked goods, Yes Please truly lives up to its name! My mom and I can’t make a trip into Old Town without popping in for one of the café’s frothy lattes and buttery croissants. Everything – from the scones to the biscuits to the cannoli – is baked fresh on-site each morning by delightful owner Gina Mallano – and each treat is seemingly more addictive than the last! The eatery also serves up a stellar breakfast and lunch, best enjoyed on the inviting sun-dappled patio.

This bohemian wonderland of home décor, founded by Shannon and Eileen Burke—the mother-daughter duo behind the Valley’s beloved Coco Rose clothing boutiques—is packed with unique finds. From whimsical gifts to stylish furnishings to fun kitchenware (all personally sourced from the Burkes’ travels to Bali and other far-flung locales), it’s become my go-to for hostess gifts. The shop also regularly gives back to the Bali community, making it a place where you can feel genuinely good about each and every purchase.

Lakeside dining in La Quinta? You’ll find that at Mélange, a New American restaurant perched waterfront at the boutique hotel Chateau at Lake La Quinta (another local gem). Serving elevated fish, chicken, and steak dishes with a Mediterranean twist—and unbeatable views—this spot is a true hidden gem, and one of my favorite places for an aperitif! Sipping a cocktail on the sprawling patio as the sun sets over the tranquil lake feels like being transported to an enchanting European village.

This elegant eatery—“where every night is a special occasion”—was founded in 2008 by French-born chef Michel Despras and his son, Nicolas, and has been lauded as the city’s most romantic restaurant pretty much ever since. While the interior is lovely, it’s the magical rear patio that truly steals the show, thanks to its picturesque canopy of trees strung with thousands upon thousands of twinkle lights. And the fare is just as impressive! Be sure not to miss the Wild Mushroom Soup and Kobe Beef Sliders, both personal favorites.

I grew up working at my mom’s popcorn shop/ice cream parlor/newsstand Blind George’s in downtown Grants Pass, Oregon. It was actually that historic building that first gave me the inspiration for Botanical Verbiage. 

I was about 16 years old working on the ice cream shop side, thinking about how the space, with its brick walls, could be transformed into a beautiful floral shop. I envisioned galvanized buckets filled with singular-type florals, with the name of the flower and its symbolism listed, where loved ones could choose specific flowers based on their meanings for their special someone. That vision and dream stayed dormant for over a decade, but in the meantime, I always enjoyed working with God’s creation and giving arrangements to others.

Around that same time, my mom was diagnosed with breast cancer, and, after her husband was deployed to Iraq, I became her primary caregiver. One thing that I vividly remember that brought her joy was having fresh flowers by her bedside. I also started a little pop-up acrylic floral business in college, while working full-time and caring for a one-year-old infant. I look back at those designs that I was so proud of now and I want to hide in their hideous aesthetics . . . or lack thereof. But I can definitely see how God was developing and shaping me and using creativity with flowers to teach and uplift others.

I’m first and foremost a wife (I’ve been married to my husband, Ralph, for 14 years) and a mom to three kiddos, Tristan (16), Walker (11) and Olivia (9). And I’m very purpose-driven. Since founding Botanical Verbiage and experiencing the opportunities that have followed, I’ve learned that living with purpose can be both a beautiful and challenging journey. When I’m asked to step into something, I always pause to consider whether it aligns with my faith and whether my efforts will truly make an impact. If they won’t, I’m quick to say no—not out of an unwillingness to help, but because I want to be able to give my very best yes.

I really love the Valley and being able to contribute my portion. I currently serve on the Old Town Artisan Studios Advisory Board and as a Shepherding Elder and Rooted leader at Southwest Churchalongside my husband, Ralph. I formerly acted as Creative Director of Joyfully Grieving and was the founder of Coachella Valley Collaborative, a solution mindset mastermind growth group formed right as we were coming out of the pandemic. The Collaborative was so pivotal not only for my business but in building community relationships. 

I’ve had the privilege of leading the Conqueror Parents group at Desert Christian Academy for four years and serving on the Board of Directors for the Women Leaders Forum for two. And I was honored to be the Angel Light Academy awards recipient in 2024. Currently, I serve as Vice President of Leadership Coachella Valley, where I previously spent two years on the board and am a proud alumna of the 2019–2021 class.

I think that’s it . . . for now!

Oh boy, that has been quite a story . . . and to be continued! I decided to start a brand new company from scratch, with no formal training, right before the pandemic hit. But has it been such a journey of growth and joy over the last five and a half years. 

I originally launched after stepping away as a top leader of a network marketing company. At the time, I had a huge online audience, but few local connections here in the desert. I finally took the dream that had been on my heart – pairing the symbolism of florals with the need in the network marketing industry to celebrate people and their teams – and brought it to life. I started with preserved flowers (nothing fresh), shipping arrangements all over the country using social media – until the pandemic hit, shipping rates tripled and my access to preserved flowers got shut off. I also noticed that all the local flower shops were shut down, and there was a need for comfort. People were scared – of losing loved ones, experiencing Mother’s Day apart from their mom, etc. 

So I’d stand in line with a mask and gloves at Trader Joe’s and I became the fresh florist in the Coachella Valley. My business multiplied and my connections throughout the Coachella Valley flourished. But most importantly, I was really living out my purpose – and discovering a new passion for creating arrangements for those in grief, which I still hold to this day. I would say about 80% of our Language Arrangements are centered around grief or healing.

Rearranging God’s materials that He gave us here on earth to help His people be seen, heal, and feel loved. Hearing the stories of how my creations have impacted others is the icing on the cake!

Yes!! Rest + Rise! That’s the next chapter of Botanical Verbiage. I would love to stay within Old Town La Quinta but I am completely open if God has a different plan. I really see a need for a healing sanctuary for other creatives to come to. R+R would have all kinds of art mediums to create with – luxury linens, an apothecary bar, plants/florals, and handmade goods, as well as a café and working spaces – all staffed by women who are transitioning out of difficult life circumstances and in need of a second chance. I love being able to work alongside others who feel “unseen” and pour into them, recognize what they’re good at, encourage and grow that skill, and help define their specific purpose here on earth. Rest + Rise will foster resting (and healing) and RISING up to one’s calling.

I love them all… even Carnations. 😉

I prefer the exact opposite of what I create – I love one type of floral bundled. The more classic/neutral the better.

I have a little baby collaboration with Roots & Mane hair salon in Palm Desert – a grab-and-go fresh floral bar. You can also find my smudge bundles at Roam.e in Old Town La Quinta. I pop-up at special events throughout the Valley, where I offer floral classes and personalized arrangements, as well.

But I mainly love to create super custom arrangements that fit a unique occasion and reflect the Giver and the recipient’s heart! So reach out on Instagram or text and share a little (or a lot) about what you want to express and I’ll help you bring that vision to life.

It has been such a beautiful blessing to learn the art of collaboration and how supportive everyone is here! There is such an abundance mindset, with even nonprofits working alongside local businesses to offer support. It’s humbling and so motivating.

Truly find the foundation of your purpose within your business and how your business is meant to fulfill that. And then, any opportunity that comes along that aligns with that, say YES! You will look back and stand in awe of all that came to fruition that you would’ve never expected!

I love the Coachella Valley! Aesthetically, we are surrounded by majestic, textured, shadowed, and snow-capped mountains, with beautiful palm trees on the valley floor. There’s nowhere like it in the world! Also, opportunity-wise, it’s that gem of feeling like you’re in a small town, yet you have access to truly anything you’d ever want. It is such a special place!

Oh, that is the toughest question yet! 

Can I do it progressive dinner party style? Here are just a few highlights. 

DRINKS: 

The Pink Cabana (pictured)

Porta Via 

SUSHI: 

Mitch’s on El Paseo

WHOLE MEAL EXPERIENCE: 

Tia Carmen at the Hyatt

Lola Rose at The Thompson 

DSRT CLUB in Old Town La Quinta 

FAMILY PIZZA NIGHT: 

Kiki’s La Quinta

Baby’s Marché – the best sandwiches and you’re always going to run into someone you know.

Roam.e  in Old Town La Quinta – the cutest local gifts and I love the owner’s heart for supporting and elevating local makers and businesses.

Sunnylands and Sunnylands Café are my happy places.

Boheme Aesthetics – All skin care needs! She is incredible about using really clean but effective ingredients alongside her LIFE-CHANGING Buccal Facial . . . plus you can ask her about the Botanical Verbiage candle collaboration (pictured). We did it together symbolizing all of the scents and notes within the treatment. 😉

Aziz Farms – I learn something new every time I tour and attend a farm-to-table dinner experience there. Where else can you pick a carrot straight out of the ground, brush a little dirt off, and eat it in the middle of the desert?! All while hearing the heart and passion behind regenerative farming straight from the owner. It’s an Eden! 

Old Town Artisan Studios is also my sanctuary for art creations and the Trigg children love attending summer camp there.

Kaylie Nicole – super classic and on-trend pieces for such a doable price.

The Shield’s Date Garden Salvation Walk brings me to tears every time I visit.