Author: lindsay

Don’t let the exterior fool you! This intimate, wood-paneled watering hole tucked behind an unassuming strip mall storefront is one of the best spots in town — whether you’re talking food, cocktails, ormocktails. With its warm, Manhattan-y feel, PaulBar serves up genuinely excellent fare alongside cocktails expertly poured by a talented team of mixologists who take their craft veryseriously. While there isn’t a dedicated mocktail menu, it’s the kind of place where you can tell the bartender what you’re in the mood for and they’ll create a thoughtfully dry libation on the spot — something my mom and I love to do and the results never miss!

This perfectly pink bar inside the Trixie Motel — famously featured on the Discovery+ reality TV series of the same name — is best known for its over-the-top ambiance, but the food, drinks, and non-alcoholic offerings are just as notable. Along with a solid lineup of signature mocktails, the menu includes a handful of ready-to-drink NA options, like a Busty Lush Paloma and Kölsch from Best Day Brewing. If you’re ordering a mocktail, the Dry Cactus — a mix of prickly pear, lemon juice, elderflower tonic, and soda — is my personal favorite. But honestly, you’ll be sitting pretty (in pink!) no matter what’s in your glass. (Reservations required.)

Designed by Christopher Kennedy, Canopy is as stunning as it is welcoming — one of my favorite local spots to linger. The servers here are genuinely passionate about wine and the lounge’s many offerings, including NOOH Sparkling Rosé, a standout dealcoholized option that tastes remarkably close to the real thing. You’ll also find other well-curated NA choices, like ginger beer and a zero-proof Firestone Walker 805. For those looking for something lower-proof rather than fully alcohol-free, the menu features cocktails made with Ola Sol agave wine in lieu of tequila — a great middle ground for celebrating without going all in.

This speakeasy, hidden behind an unmarked door in downtown Indio, is celebrated for its immersive culinary experiences, with dishes and drinks smoked, flambéed, seared and foamed tableside. The non-alcoholic offerings are just as inventive, with five elegantly curated mocktails on the menu. I’m especially fond of the Sicilian Sunset, a vibrant mix of Ghia Apéritif, Roots Divino Rosso NA Vermouth, Pizzolato NA Sparkling White, blood orange purée, and pineapple and lemon juices, topped with a flambéed orange wheel. Drinks, food, flair and ambiance — Italica literally has it all.

Looking for mocktails to enjoy at home? This bustling bottle shop, located inside the sprawling Market Market emporium (with a sister location just up the road at Mojave Flea Trading Post), is packed with zero-proof and non-alcoholic offerings and mixers that extend Dry January well beyond a night out. Bonus — the fridge aisle is teeming with a wide array of chilled, grab-and-go choices, making it especially easy to stock up. Owner David Marks — whom I spotlighted back in November — recommends the canned mocktails from Aplós and Parch. Be sure not to miss the whimsical gifts and specialty foods while there — PSBS is just as fun to browse as it is to shop.

This question comes from my neighbor and friend Liz (of Shuffle Fine Cards), who has been gluten-free for years but loves dining out — and luckily, the Coachella Valley has plenty of great options for her to indulge.

A few of my picks:

Alps Village (pictured) – Pretty much everything on the menu at this German/Bavarian gem (one of my favorite desert eateries!) is available in a gluten-free variation — from spaetzle to pizza to schnitzel — all of it absolutely delicious and made fresh on-site daily!

Stuft – My pick for the best gluten-free pizza around. My neighbors have ordered it for various get-togethers and it’s never been anything short of fabulous.

Zin American Bistro – Easily my favorite downtown PS restaurant, this staple offers a solid selection of gluten-free options, including pastas and burgers. Don’t miss the Mushroom Truffle Soup or the Seasonal Burrata Salad — both naturally gluten-free and absolutely divine.

Grapefruit Basil – Located inside the Tommy Bahama Miramonte Resort in Indian Wells, this place boasts a menu packed with gluten-free dishes — plus plenty of items that can be easily modified. My favorite? The naturally gluten-free Spaghetti Squash entrée, featuring roasted mushrooms, lemon Parmigiano-Reggiano broth, Campari tomatoes, sweet corn, Bloomsdale spinach, and pistachio gremolata.

Chef Tanya’s Kitchen – Everything at this fully vegan eatery (with locations in both Palm Springs and Palm Desert) somehow tastes just as good as the real thing! And there is also plenty of gluten-free fare on the menu. I’m partial to the Egg-y Salad, while my friend Heidi (of Lucky Linqs) swears by the Bahn Mi & You sandwich, both GF. Be sure to hit up the onsite Kreamery for the best GF/vegan ice cream and coffee in town!

Grill-A-Burger – This “hamburger heaven,” famously featured on Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives, offers truly stellar burgers and hot dogs on equally stellar GF buns! Pretty much everything is made in-house, with tons of customization options, including chicken, turkey and veggie patties — plus plenty of vegetarian and vegan choices, as well.

Wildest – While I haven’t actually been here yet, I’ve heard nothing but great things about this Palm Desert eatery. The menu features a smorgasbord of inventive gluten-free (not to mention vegan, vegetarian, dairy-free, nut-free, and seed-free) options — from English Pea & Black Truffle Ravioli to Oyster Mushroom Fried “Chicken” to Braised Beef Short Ribs.

This question comes from my foodie friend Cherry (of Old Town La Quinta’s Roam.e) and I didn’t hesitate with my answer — the chocolate chip cookies at Bar Cecil!

Homemade and served warm straight from the oven, these cookies are perfectly crispy on the outside and perfectly chewy inside. A side of McConnell’s vanilla ice cream — a pairing recommended by our genius server — is the perfect complement.

And yes — I did once make myself a bit sick overdoing it on this dessert. Zero regrets. Completely worth it.

This question was posed by Rae (of Old Town La Quinta’s Mimi & Rae), who had a friend visiting in December and wanted to know my favorite spots to experience the desert in all its glory.

A few of my go-tos include:

The Living Desert – One of my local happy places. Nothing beats a day spent walking the paths of this top-notch zoo and conservation center.

Sunnylands Center & Gardens (pictured) – Another desert happy place of mine. (Do I need to do a whole newsletter on this topic?) A stroll through the stunning gardens — which are free to visit — followed by lunch or coffee at the on-site café is always a crowd pleaser. 

Barbara Bar – Whimsical, over-the-top, and fabulously pink, this watering hole serves up seriously tasty bites and sips — and (bonus!) it’s a filming location! (Reservations required.)

Flannery Exchange – My favorite Palm Springs shopping destination! I love popping in, grabbing a latte from Cafe La Jefe and browsing the fab boutiques, including Bobo Palm Springs, Covet, Bean Goods and Los Angeleaves.

High Bar – Cocktails at this open-air rooftop bar come with some of the best views of downtown Palm Springs. Always a win with visitors.

Robolights – An only-in-Palm-Springs sight that has to be seen to be believed. While private tours are available, plenty of the massive art installation (created entirely from trash and scrap materials), which stands on the grounds of a private house in the Movie Colony neighborhood, can be enjoyed right from the street.

Windmills –  A guided Windmill Tour is always a great adventure, but if time doesn’t allow, there are stellar views to be had of the massive turbines from the surrounding roads. A drive around to see them up close and personal is never short of awe-inspiring.

The Judy Show – One of my all-time favorite desert experiences! Legendary entertainer and celebrity impersonator Michael Holmes stars in this hilariously irreverent dinner show filled with music, comedy, and fabulous cuisine, hosted at the iconic Purple Room — a former Rat Pack hangout.

Copley’s – A little slice of Hollywood right here in the desert. This fine-dining spot once served as Cary Grant’s off-site guest quarters and now dishes up excellent food and cocktails. Even just stopping in for drinks makes for a memorable experience.

Sherman’s Deli & Bakery – One of my favorite lunch (the club sandwich is spectacular!) and dessert staples that’s always a hit with visitors. Bonus: gluten-free bread and other GF options are available.

Had you asked me this last week,  PS Air Bar would have topped the list — but it sadly closed just days ago (RIP to one of my favorite local spots). Thankfully, the Coachella Valley boasts a plethora of whimsically themed and visually stunning places to sip and dine.

The Pink Cabana (pictured) – This gorgeous, blush-hued spot was designed by Martyn Lawrence Bullard as a nod to the tennis clubs of yesteryear — and it’s just as chic & Instagrammable as you’d imagine.

Barbara Bar – Another mention of this more-is-more pink paradise fashioned by designer Dani Dazey — but I love it that much. Bold, playful, and wildly photogenic. (Reservations required.)

Bootlegger Tiki – A Polynesian paradise housed in the former location of legendary bar Don the Beachcomber (another Rat Pack hangout!). Classic tiki vibes done right with a pairing of Hollywood history. 

Bar Issi – A White Lotus–inspired maximalist gem with its wallpaper game firmly on lock, designed by Tom Parker of Fettle.

Italica – A design-forward downtown Indio speakeasy serving fabulous food and drinks in a moody, intimate setting. (Reservations recommended.)

Bar Cecil – A true masterwork of both brilliant design and cuisine, with fine art and cheeky collectibles lining the walls. Pro tip: don’t miss the bathroom. (Reservations highly recommended – this place is usually booked months out.)

The Tropicale – A stylish, punchy throwback to the supper clubs of yesteryear — with cocktails that match the vibe.

Bar Valerie – Fashioned by my friend (and designer extraordinaire) David Rios, this swank watering hole at Palm Springs’ Velvet Rope hotel channels over-the-top Old Hollywood glamour in all the right ways! (Currently only open Thursdays for Cabaret L’Amour.)

Canopy Wine Lounge – Outfitted by Christopher Kennedy, this is easily one of the desert’s most stylish spots to sip wine and unwind.

Billy Reed’s – Flush with oversized booths, rich red accents, and Tiffany-style lamps galore, this Palm Springs landmark is like Disneyland in the desert – and I mean that in the best possible way.

Del Rey – An intimately beautiful watering hole tucked inside the stunning Villa Royale hotel, which is rumored to have once been home to Olympic figure skater Sonja Henie.

The Red Barn – Recently revamped to the absolute nines, this stunner has it all — from Liberace’s former lamps to art from the Autry Museum to dramatically flocked wallpaper. (Be sure to check out the fabulous pink bathroom!)

A flight attendant friend recently stopped in Palm Springs for a brief layover, so I, of course, took her sightseeing to a few of my favorite local haunts — one of them being the famed Kaufmann House. While snapping photos out front, we met some snowbirds visiting from New York who asked if I could share the history of the home, to which I happily obliged! They now subscribe to my newsletter, so I figured I’d do an even deeper dive on the property.

The Kaufmann House is often described as one of the most famous residences in the world. Designed by architect Richard Neutra in 1946, the International Style marvel was commissioned by Edgar J. Kaufmann Sr., the very same man who commissioned Frank Lloyd Wright to construct Fallingwater, another of the world’s most iconic properties.

The pinwheel-shaped dwelling was fashioned from steel, aluminum, glass, and stone at a then-astounding cost of $295,000. Photographer Julius Shulman’s legendary 1947 images of the home catapulted it to architectural fame almost overnight. After Kaufmann’s death, however, the property sat vacant for an extended period of time and went through several ownership changes — Barry Manilow even called it home for a few years — along with a series of unfortunate renovations.

In 1993, the house was purchased by art historian Beth Harris and her husband, Brent, who undertook a painstaking, years-long restoration to return it to its original glory. Their efforts are widely credited with helping spark the mid-century modern restoration movement that Palm Springs is now known for today.

Incredibly, at the time of their purchase, the residence had been on the market for more than three and a half years and was being listed as a teardown. It’s hard not to wonder how different Palm Springs might look today had it not been for their vision and dedication.

When the Harrises later put the home on the market in 2007, it wasn’t a typical real estate listing. The property was auctioned through Christie’s — and categorized not as a residence, but as a work of art!

Architectural highlights of the 3,162-square-foot, 5-bedroom, 6-bath home include floor-to-ceiling disappearing glass walls, a second-story “gloriette,” an outdoor viewing platform, and movable aluminum wall panels that can be closed to block the sun or opened to capture the desert breeze.

Over the years, the Kaufmann House has been featured countless times in print, including in the pages of Palm Springs Life, Time, and Lifemagazine, as well as in numerous architectural books. Most famously, it served as the setting for Slim Aarons’ iconic photograph Poolside Gossip, featuring then-owner Nelda Linsk. More recently, it portrayed Chris Pine’s home in the 2022 film Don’t Worry Darling.

Scents have always been part of our relationship, we probably own 200-plus candles at the moment that aren’t our own. We noticed there seemed to be 2 types of candles. One you don’t even know is burning (you can barely smell it), while the other option is so overpowering that it takes over your house, and causes headaches that you end up blowing it out. 

We wanted to create something that elevates your space – not overpowering. A candle you can smell throughout your room, adding to the moment, but isn’t the center of attention. 

Also, we didn’t see our culture in candle products in retail stores like Target or West Elm. We wanted to see ourselves, Hispanics, on the shelf. Our culture should be represented in the scent-making business. We have a point of view and unique scents that we would love to share with the world.

Family is important to us, we both were called ‘Mijo’ growing up and still til this day. If you’re ever around a Mexican family, whether you’re related to them or not, chances are you’ll be called ‘Mijo’ or ‘Mija.’ It translates to “Son/Daughter/Darling”, but it’s known as a term of endearment.

We create candle scents that are pulled from our memories, current and childhood. Adolfo’s great-grandmother, Mamanie, helped raise him growing up, and he had a deep connection to her. During those periods of time when he was living with her, he felt unconditional love, affection, traditions, and routine. ‘Bloom’ is inspired by the rose bushes in her front yard. You’ll be able to read what each scent means to us in the description on our website.

There is something to love about each scent, and it changes depending on the mood or season, but at the moment Adolfo’s favorites are ‘Zest’ and ‘Bloom’. Zest is so refreshing and clean, it’s like starting your morning with a grapefruit, cleansing and resetting the body before a hectic day. ‘Bloom’ is a woodsy floral that’s elegant and calming. As we head into fall, Vince loves ‘Spice’ and ‘Musk’. They’re both perfect to end the day with.

Scent curating is the fun part! We spent months blending, pouring, burning, adding, and lowering fragrance percentages. It’s an enjoyable art form.

Honestly, it was fun! We share the same taste level when it comes to scents that we rarely disagreed on our blends. We both knew ahead of time what memories we wanted our scents to evoke, so we worked around those. Our good friends at Bosch Studios helped bring to life the vintage 70’s vibe we were going for.

Currently, you can find us at Good Neighbor Trading Post in Palm Desert (pictured). We plan to participate in local events throughout the Coachella Valley and hope to be in other stores, as well. We are also available online.

We are so excited for these! We are offering candle-making classesthroughout the Coachella Valley as a mobile studio where we take all the supplies to a specific location. During a two-hour class, guests will be able to smell over 30 scents to make their custom scent and make an 8oz Amber jar candle. 

These classes can be held at businesses, your home, bachelorette parties, corporate parties, etc. Our first class is taking place October 26th at Good Neighbor Trading Post. More info can be found on our website or via the QR code above.

How supportive everyone is! We’ve had so many businesses give us a shout-out on social media, offer support and even purchase our candles. It’s nice to know there’s a support system amongst other businesses.

The desert wildlife. We have a roadrunner, cotton tail, gopher, and hummingbirds that all live in harmony in our backyard. We’ve watched them grow from babies to adults – it’s been a sweet blessing to witness.

Additionally, we love the calm, peaceful, starry nights and the smell of the heat cooking the sand, and the smell of desert rain.

We love winter, it brings our favorite holidays and family traditions.

Reach out to America’s SBDC California. They provide no-cost business consulting. They’re a wonderful resource.

Adolfo loves Thai Hot in Indio (pictured). Vince loves El Tapatio in Indio.

You can find us in thrift stores and consignment shops throughout the desert – we enjoy the hunt for unique finds.

Some of our favorites are:

Martha’s Village Thrift Store in Indio

Foss Resale House in La Quinta 

Thriftology in Palm Desert (pictured)

Revivals in Palm Springs

Sunny Dunes Antique Mall

We are fans of Chef Tanya’s Kitchen. When we lived in LA, we made it a point to stop by while visiting. 

Sloan’s in Indio has amazing breakfast. 

El Tapatio has amazing enchiladas. 

Sabatino’s Pizza, Pasta & Wings in La Quinta! 

Tiffany’s Sweet Spot cupcakes and Teddy’s Donuts! 

When the season starts, the freshly picked strawberries from Madison St. Produce in Indio are amazing! 

We are film buffs and avid readers, so we are usually in a theater for date night or looking for vintage books, but we also love Moorten Botanical Garden, drag shows, and a dance floor.

This luminescence-bending labyrinth was fashioned out of glass by South Korean conceptual artist Kimsooja, who deems it a “bottari of light.”With each panel wrapped in an “optical film,” rainbow reflections abound throughout the structure and its sandy surroundings. The immersive piece, a counterpart to Kimsooja’s AlUla Desert X installation, beckons guests inward to walk its dusty, curving path. 

This large-scale work, created by Jose Dávila, features massive marble blocks excavated from a quarry in Mexico. Inspired by Robert Smithson’s Nonsites, the rocks stand like a desert-esque Stonehenge, the formations beautifully framing the landscape and creating stunning vistas of the desolate terrain, with Palm Springs’ iconic windmills slowly spinning in the background. This one is just begging to be photographed!

Sarah Meyohas’ cinematic installation utilizes “analog and digital technologies” and large disc-shaped “caustic mirrors” to project a series of reflections onto an undulating white sculpture that threads its way across the sand. Massive in scale and soliciting exploration from every angle, the exhibit is hands-on, with visitors invited to reposition the mirrors and alter the projections in real-time.

There’s pretty much nothing I love more than an abandoned site, so this retro gas station situated amidst a desolate field speaks to my heart. The fact that it spreads positivity via a succession of tire-framed road signs and poetry recitations broadcast from its gas pump “telephones” only adds to the allure. Crafted by Alison Saar from discarded materials, the solar-powered piece is a spectacular example of adaptive reuse.

This zigzagging adobe sculpture, created by architect/ professor/ artist/author Ronald Rael entirely of mud using a 3D printer, fuses modern technology with ancient building methods. Set against a dramatic mountain backdrop on the outskirts of downtown Palm Springs, the structure, which is textured to resemble palm trees, promotes the use of sustainable building materials, uniquely serving “as both an artistic endeavor and a research initiative.”  

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.

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 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.)

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.

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

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.