Category: Newsletters

I come from a mix of hospitality, events, and community-focused work. I started my career in Bentonville, Arkansas, producing events and building experiences that brought people together, then moved into the Chamber world—where I saw firsthand how economic and community development really happens: by connecting the right people at the right time. That’s been the through-line for me: creating spaces people actually want to be in, where something real can come out of it.

I moved to Palm Springs in 2022. I was in Los Angeles at the time, my lease was ending, my partner was here, and my current role opened up. It felt like one of those right place, right time moments and I’m really glad I trusted it.

I had been working at the Bentonville Area Chamber of Commerce for about five years, so I already understood the role Chambers can play in a community. When this position opened up, it felt like a rare opportunity to bring together strategy, creativity, and community-building in a place that already has a strong sense of identity. Palm Springs has a creative edge that you don’t always see and that was a big draw for me.

My official title is Director of Programs + Creative Strategy, which is a pretty accurate description. I oversee Leadership Coachella Valley, EMERGE Palm Springs, and the Walk of the Stars, while also leading marketing across the organization. So it ranges from big-picture strategy to very hands-on work—campaigns, content, events, partnerships. At the end of the day, it’s about making sure what we create in terms of programming and marketing feels intentional, relevant, and actually worth people’s time.

When I moved here, I noticed a gap—especially for younger, modern professionals. A lot of networking spaces felt transactional or forced, and that’s just not how I think people connect anymore. I wanted to create something that felt more natural, more genuine, and more reflective of the people who are actually building things here now. It really came down to this: if you put the right people in the right environment, you don’t have to force anything.

It’s not traditional networking. It’s a well-designed environment where conversations happen naturally. Good space, interesting people, something thoughtful woven in, and you leave having actually met people, not just exchanged names.

SOCIAL HOUR is the entry point. It’s more open, a little larger, and easy to walk into, whether you know people or not.

COMMON GROUND is smaller and more intentional. It’s built around shared interests, so conversations tend to go a little deeper and people find alignment faster.

IN CONVERSATION is a monthly morning series where we bring together a mix of emerging and established voices from different industries for conversations that feel grounded and real — not overly polished panels or rehearsed talking points.

People can expect honest perspective, practical insight, and conversations that actually stay with you after you leave. The goal is to walk away with a new way of thinking about something, whether that’s leadership, mentorship, creativity, business, or personal growth. It’s designed to feel approachable, welcoming, and worth showing up early for.

Windmill City stands out. We had live screen printing happening all night, people designing and walking out in pieces they just made, music going, drinks flowing. It felt interactive in a way that most networking events just aren’t. Hosting our first birthday on the rooftop of the Rowan was also special, since that’s where it all started. Honestly, I’ve been lucky to work with so many great spaces—it’s hard to pick favorites.

I keep a running list of “dream” locations, but a lot of it also happens organically. I look for places that already have a point of view: spaces with character, intention, and a vibe people want to be in. When the setting feels right, it naturally shapes how people show up.

I’ve definitely learned it. I don’t love traditional networking because it can feel forced, but I understand that’s part of the game in this industry. Over time, I realized the best connections come from just being present and curious. I still love meeting people, but I think of it more as building relationships than “networking.”

Honestly, watching what happens after the event. People meeting and then going on to collaborate, become friends, start businesses together—that’s the real impact. When something shifts from surface-level to something meaningful, you can feel it. That’s what makes it worth it.

Don’t overcomplicate it. Start with something real, something people actually care about, and stay consistent. You don’t need everything figured out, but you do need to keep showing up. And who you surround yourself with matters more than almost anything else.

The pace. There’s space here to think, build, and connect without constant noise, but there’s still a strong creative and entrepreneurial energy. It’s a rare balance.

Outside somewhere—drink in hand, probably near a pool or with a good view. Or checking out a new spot, or at something happening around town. There’s always something going on.

It depends on the mood.

• For a working lunch, the Cobb Salad at Spencer’s Restaurantnever misses.
• For something more relaxed, the Carne Asada Fries at Luchador Brewing Company are always in rotation.
• And honestly, I could make a full meal out of the Squash Blossoms at Clandestino.

• Right now, I keep sending people to Mentosa Coffee—it’s low-key, dialed in, and doesn’t try too hard. Get the “Tonic Glow”—lychee, ginger, lemon, and espresso. Trust me.
• For restaurants, I rotate between Boozehounds, La Tablita, Townie Bagels, The Sandwich Spot, 1501 Uptown Gastropub, The Heyday, and lately SoCal Sunset.
• If I have time to wander, I’ll start at Mojave Flea Trading Post,then make my way to Discount Beepers and Jean & James for vintage. Just Fabulous is my go-to for anything design-forward, and when it’s in season, the Palm Springs Vintage Market is always worth it.
• Lately, I’ve also been trying to be a little more balanced—getting back into yoga and pilates, mostly at Pharos Athletic Club(pictured)—which has been a good reset.
• And when I’m not trying to be productive, I’ll end up at the Palm Springs Surf Club. It’s the kind of place where you go for a couple hours and somehow stay all day—you never really know who you’re going to run into.
• Also, slightly niche, but Vanity’s DollHaus at One Eleven Bar on Friday nights is chaotic in the best way and always a guaranteed good time.

I was asked this question by a friend from church who was headed to the Palm Springs Art Museum with a group and needed some last-minute breakfast/brunch recommendations — and I was only too happy to oblige.

Liv’s – There’s no spot closer than Liv’s, located right on the museum’s lower level. Helmed by Chef Gabriel Woo — the mastermind behind Bar Cecil — the eatery serves excellent food in a bright, cheerful setting. Full disclosure: I’ve only ever been for lunch, but I imagine the breakfasts are equally tasty.

Juniper Table (pictured) – This place offers delicious breakfast in a beautiful setting just steps from the museum — though I’m still not entirely over the fact that they removed the homemade scones from the menu a few years back. They were a definite favorite of mine and I’m still just a wee bit bitter about it.

Farm – If you can snag a table — and that can be a big if — this is one of the most beloved breakfast joints in town.

Eight4Nine Restaurant & Lounge – I love everything about this place, especially the egg white frittata — easily one of my favorite breakfast dishes in the entire Valley.

Sherman’s Deli & Bakery – A desert staple, you really can’t go wrong with a meal here.

A little farther out of the way, but definitely worth the walk, Boozehounds and Billy Reed’s (those cinnamon rolls!) are two of my breakfast favorites.

And while I haven’t personally been, I hear great things about both Hunny’s Restaurant & Bar and John’s Restaurant.

A friend who hosts a regular trivia night at her club recently reached out to see if I had any fun locally themed questions for an upcoming game. She didn’t have to ask twice! Random Coachella Valley tidbits are kind of my specialty. Here are a few I came up with.

HOLLYWOOD & CELEBRITY TRIVIA

Why are dimes often scattered at Frank Sinatra’s grave?
Following his son’s 1963 kidnapping — during which ransom demands were made via payphone — Sinatra began carrying 10 dimes at all times. The practice became so commonplace that he was even buried with 10 dimes in his pocket. As a nod to that lifelong habit, visitors leave coins at his gravesite at Desert Memorial Park in Cathedral City, as pictured above.

What local resort did Frank Capra call his “Shangri-La for script-writing”?
La Quinta Resort & Club. Capra wrote many of his famous scripts there, and his typewriter still remains on display in his favorite room — the San Anselmo Casita (Room 136).

President Kennedy famously snubbed Frank Sinatra by not staying at his Rancho Mirage home during a 1962 visit. Which celebrity’s home did he stay at instead?
Singer Bing Crosby’s. Fearing bad press surrounding Sinatra’s alleged mob ties, the president reportedly changed plans at the last minute and instead stayed at Crosby’s estate in Silver Spur Ranch (now Ironwood Country Club).

What famous singer had a piano-shaped mailbox outside his Palm Springs home?
Liberace. The mailbox still stands in front of the property, located at 1441 North Kaweah Road, today.

What actor once owned the Palm Springs home known on Instagram as “That Pink Door”?
Telly Savalas.

ONLY IN THE DESERT

What is Indio’s nickname?
“The City of Festivals.”

The award-winning Spa at Séc-he opened in 2023. What does “Séc-he” mean in Cahuilla?
“The sound of boiling water.”

What is the name of the movie that has played continuously at Shields Date Garden since 1951?
“The Romance & Sex Life of the Date.”

The pool at the historic Ocotillo Lodge is shaped like what object?
A champagne cork.

What famous televangelist became embroiled in scandal after being pulled over near Clark’s Travel Center in Indio in 1991?
 Jimmy Swaggart – and there’s a plaque to prove it!

SPORTS & POP CULTURE

What band’s 1993 concert at the Empire Polo Club is widely credited with helping inspire the creation of the Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival?
Pearl Jam.

Where is baseball great Dorothy Kamenshek — the inspiration for Dottie in A League of Their Own — buried?
Forest Lawn Cemetery in Cathedral City.

Indian Wells Tennis Garden is home to the second-largest tennis stadium in the world. What’s the largest?
Arthur Ashe Stadium in New York.

This question came from a local desert Facebook group I’m part of, and I immediately knew the answer — it was a spot I absolutely loved and had visited even before moving to the desert.

Known as The Homestead, the eatery was indeed located inside a ranch home and featured a sprawling back patio with a fire pit where guests could head after dinner to make complimentary s’mores well into the night. Cozy and inviting, the restaurant even handed out blankets to keep diners warm on chilly evenings.

The Homestead closed in 2012 and today houses Old Town Artisan Studios.

The property itself has a fascinating history. Designed by architect Cliff May, it was originally built as a private home in 1948 for photographer Mary Mead-Maddick, who is said to have hosted such luminaries as Elizabeth Taylor, Lucille Ball, Alfred Hitchcock, and John Wayne during her tenure.

In the 1970s, the residence was purchased by Bob and Dolly Cunard, founders of La Quinta’s popular Cunard’s Sandbar. After their daughter left for college, the empty-nesters decided to transform the 16,000-square-foot estate and its 3.5-acre grounds into an elegant second restaurant called simply “Cunard’s,” which opened in 1987. An article from that year noted, “The old ranch house seemed destined for social gatherings . . . “

Throughout the ensuing years, the space housed several different restaurant concepts, including La Quinta Grill and Uli’s Bistro, before reopening as The Homestead in 2009. The name was fitting—dining there felt far more like being in a friend’s home than in a restaurant. 

Following the eatery’s closure, the property sat vacant for several years before reopening in 2016 as Old Town Artisan Studios, which still retains much of The Homestead’s original charm — though, sadly, no more complimentary s’mores.

That said, I highly recommend checking out their paint-your-own pottery studio, one of my favorite summer activities in the desert. Though I still can’t walk past that old firepit (pictured) without feeling a pang of nostalgia.

If you’re now craving a desert s’mores experience of your own, The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage offers s’mores kits for guests to enjoy around the resort’s many fire pits.

Yes — absolutely apply!

I honestly cannot say enough good things about Leadership Coachella Valley. Joining the program was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

I’ve sung LCV’s praises in a previous Ask Lindsay issue, but I’ll say it again: I’ve met people whose paths I likely never would have crossed otherwise, many of whom have become dear friends. I’ve been introduced to industries, organizations, and perspectives I never would have encountered on my own. I’ve grown exponentially and picked up invaluable life skills. And perhaps most surprisingly, I’ve learned more about this Valley than I ever thought possible — and I went in already knowing a lot. In many ways, it’s made the desert feel smaller in the very best way.

As for what the program entails, each class includes roughly 45 participants who gather once a month for full-day sessions over the course of 10 months beginning in September. Each session centers around a different topic — Economic Drivers, Education, Philanthropy, Arts & Culture, Government & Justice, and more — offering an intensive deep dive into the people, organizations, and systems shaping the Coachella Valley.

And when I say intensive, I mean intensive.

Our recent Government & Justice session included a tour of the Cathedral City fire station, a K9 demonstration, a city leaders panel featuring seven local mayors and two mayors pro tem, a discussion on tribal government led by the director of public relations for the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, a Riverside County justice panel with judges and attorneys, presentations from city managers and clerks on how local government functions, a lesson on mosquito and vector control, and, finally, a “Connect & Reflect” happy hour at Luchador Brewing Company. Each session also includes lunch from a fantastic local restaurant, along with invaluable leadership training and team-building exercises.

They’re immersive, fascinating, and genuinely fun — kind of like the world’s most interesting field trips. And honestly, the behind-the-scenes access alone is worth the price of admission.

Each class is also tasked with completing a class project benefiting a local nonprofit, though the scope and direction are entirely up to the class itself. Past projects have included hosting a prom for special needs students, organizing an education fair, and purchasing a commemorative plaque at the Coachella Valley Rescue Mission.

In honor of LCV’s 25th anniversary this year, our class decided to go big by hosting a fundraiser benefiting ABC Recovery Center’s campus expansion — a cause that’s made many an appearance in this newsletter as of late. To date, we’ve raised more than $23,000 — and donations are still coming in.

For anyone wondering about the time commitment: there’s no homework, and the only required commitment is the one full-day session per month for 10 months. Involvement in the class project can be tailored to your schedule and bandwidth. Some classmates dive in heavily, while others participate in smaller ways depending on work and life commitments. I personally went all in and loved every second!

And the experience doesn’t end at graduation. LCV has an extensive alumni network, with plenty of ways to stay connected long after the formal program wraps. In many ways, joining LCV feels less like completing a course and more like becoming part of a deeply connected Valley-wide community.

Tuition for the program is $1,500, and scholarships are available, so don’t let the cost keep you from applying if you’re interested.

In short (or not so short): do not pass go, do not collect $200 — just apply (but do it quickly – applications close May 31). The experience truly is life-changing.

One of my closest friends from LCV recently asked me this after my many Instagram posts about the Palm Desert Civic Academy (a program I just completed) sparked her curiosity about other similar opportunities in the Valley. Thankfully, there are quite a few — broken down by category below.

NETWORKING & COMMUNITY

• Emerge Palm Springs
  Not all networking events are created equal and the meet-ups put on by Emerge are truly next level. Typically hosted in unique spaces (like Windmill City Screen Printing — pictured above) and featuring great food from local vendors, walking into an Emerge event feels a bit like stepping into a warm hug. I honestly can’t think of a single one I’ve attended where I didn’t leave with at least one new friend. Founded by Evan Gray (whom I met through Emerge and now consider a friend — and who will be featured in my next Spotlight On newsletter issue!), the organization has quickly become one of my favorite ways to connect with people in the desert.
• GPS Ambassador Training
  I actually just signed up for this program, facilitated by the Greater Palm Springs Convention & Visitors Bureau, which trains locals to become “destination champions” for our desert community. Offered as either a short online or in-person course lasting about 2.5 hours, ambassadors are granted access to exclusive local experiences, events and continuing education opportunities throughout the valley.
• Shine Social/Rise 2 Shine Collective
  If you’re craving something a bit deeper than traditional networking, Shine Social and the broader Rise 2 Shine Collective — founded by LCV alum Noelle Kustas — do a beautiful job of fostering genuine friendships, support, and community among women in the desert. In fact, I recently hosted a small give-back night at The Local on 50th benefiting our LCV fundraiser, and Noelle turned the evening into her monthly “Girls Night Out,” bringing more than a dozen collective members to support our class project. If you’re looking for a group that shows up every single time, that’s Rise 2 Shine.

LEADERSHIP & CIVIC ENGAGEMENT

• Leadership Coachella Valley
  As I mentioned above, if you’re seeking an opportunity to learn more about the desert and become more deeply connected to the community, this would absolutely be my first stop!
• Palm Desert Civic Academy
  Created by current LCV vice-president Ryland Penta, this program is like a mini-LCV focused on Palm Desert specifically (though participants need not be PD residents). Facilitated over five Monday evenings from 5–7:30 p.m., the course offers a fascinating dive into the city’s government, culture, planning and development through tours, panels and behind-the-scenes looks at civic processes.

BUSINESS & ENTREPRENEURSHIP

• Palm Desert Entrepreneurial Resource Center (PDERC)
  This hub for students, entrepreneurs and small business owners across the Coachella Valley fosters business establishment and growth by providing training, education, and services through various programs. The facility also features office space and conference rooms available for locals to utilize.
• Mini MBA Program
  One of the many offerings through the PDERC is a Mini MBA course, a six-session series designed to help early-stage and startup entrepreneurs by “covering the greatest hits of an MBA.” Best of all? It’s free!
• Coachella Valley Innovation Alliance
  Sponsored by Caravanserai Alliance for Entrepreneurs, this new initiative aims to connect civic leaders, business owners and residents across all nine desert cities. Its first event, an “Innovation Across the Valley” meet-up, takes place May 26 at Studio 4707 and will feature speakers including SunLine Transit Agency CEO Mona Babauta and The Best Bookstore owner Sarah Lacy.

Named in honor of a longtime Palm Desert mayor and city council member, this picturesque waterway meanders along the park’s southern edge. Home to a plethora of ducks, turtles, herons, and fish, the lagoon makes for a perfect spot to sit, ponder, and take in the wildlife. And while fishing isn’t actually allowed, there is one lone figure forever trying his luck. The bronze sculpture Midstream (pictured), by J. Seward Johnson, Jr.—the artist behind downtown Palm Springs’ Forever Marilyn—stands along the shoreline, fishing pole in hand . . . or at least he originally did. The pole was stolen long ago, but the joke remains: he’s positioned just steps from a “No Fishing” sign.

This gorgeous installation traces its origins to an essay written by second grader Bernice Gonzalez in 1997, which won the city’s annual Student Art & Essay Contest. That year’s theme: “If I Could Design Public Art.” Her vision? A metal mother and daughter holding hands, surrounded by sunflowers. The city council loved her idea so much that four years later, they commissioned artist Lisa Reinertson to bring it to life. The result (pictured) is a bronze mother and child encircled by a sea of lush golden florals and playful terrazzo animals—a piece that took my breath away the first time I saw it. Other not-to-miss artworks at the park include a set of coyote benches designed by third grader Ben Watling and The Dreamerstatue. 

Designed by Dee Clements, this memorial offers a powerful look at the Holocaust. Thoughtfully laid out, it guides visitors through the timeline, geography, and human impact of this history in a way that is as educational as it is sobering. Framed by poles modeled after those that held electrified barbed wire at the concentration camps, the space is anchored by cobblestone paving reminiscent of the grounds at Auschwitz. Bronze bas-reliefs, drawn from real historical photographs, encircle a 20-foot Star of David carved from black granite. Five sculpted figures stand atop the star, continuing the visual narrative. It’s not an easy stop, but it’s an important one—and one that stays with you long after you leave.

Prior to my recent visit, I had no idea this place even existed! Although it’s currently closed for renovations through May 23 (hence the cones in my photo), even from the outside, it’s incredibly impressive. Featuring two pools, water slides, a rope swing, a climbing wall, an obstacle course, a splash playground, a café (yes, they serve chicken strips!), and plenty of chaises and shady spots, it’s easy to see why it’s a popular spot to cool off—despite somehow flying under my radar all this time. With regular offerings like swim lessons, aquatic fitness classes, and lap swims, the Valley is lucky to have such a state-of-the-art place to beat the heat. I, for one, can’t wait to check it out this summer. (Day passes range from $7.75 to $12, with monthly options available.)

At the north end of the park, the entrance to Legends Field is marked by a tribute to a handful of baseball greats. While sports have never been my thing, the words etched on the ten columns lining the walkway immediately caught my eye. Each of the legendary athletes honored boasts a connection to the Valley, and reading through the plaques felt like a local history lesson. Among those recognized are Hall of Famer Don Drysdale, who called the desert home for two decades, and Dorothy Kamenshek—the inspiration for the character of Dottie in A League of Their Own—who lived (and is now buried) in Cathedral City. It’s a subtle but meaningful nod to the area’s history—and one that’s easy to miss if you don’t know where to look.

My husband is a huge fan of rice bowls, so when I heard about a new build-your-own bibimbap spot in La Quinta, the two of us rushed right over. And it did not disappoint! With a nice selection of base options (rice, noodles, or greens), proteins (chicken, pork, beef, or tofu), veggie toppings, and your pick of sauces, the meals are fully customizable—which this picky eater wholeheartedly appreciated—and absolutely delicious. My choice? A rice and tofu bowl topped with edamame, zucchini, shiitake mushrooms, and broccoli. No notes. I would happily eat there again—and again.

I just graduated from the Palm Desert Civic Academy after signing up on the recommendation of a Leadership Coachella Valleyboard member—and I genuinely loved every minute! Taking place over five consecutive Monday evenings, the sessions dive into everything from budget planning to beautification to public works, offering a concise and engaging introduction to how city government operates. Open to everyone (you do not need to be a Palm Desert resident), the free course feels like a mini LCV experience and is honestly one of the best things I’ve done this year. Bonus: Each session includes a free dinner from a stellar local eatery.

As a self-described coffee fiend, I am always up for visiting new local coffee shops and have been eagerly awaiting the opening of this specialty roaster (founded by two CV natives!) ever since first seeing it announced on Instagram late last year. The verdict? Definitely worth the wait. Bright, open, and airy, Desert Kid Coffee has a chic industrial feel, with cement flooring, sleek wood accents, and a garage door that opens to the sprawling front patio. I grabbed an iced latte and knocked out a couple of emails from one of the tables, fully enjoying the relaxed, design-forward vibe. And the latte itself? Utter perfection.

My friend and Leadership Coachella Valley president Nicole Trigg—the artist behind Botanical Verbiage—is hosting a series of floral design workshops over the next couple of months at the Coachella Valley History Museum. My bestie Heidi and I signed up for the ikebana session, the first in the series, and not only learned the intricacies of the Japanese art of intentional floral arranging, but also walked away with truly gorgeous creations (mine is pictured). Nicole breaks down the entire process with ease, crafting an evening of art, beauty, and inspiration.

I am a sucker for cute totes and graphic tees (especially of the desert-themed variety), not to mention a total child of the ’80s—so when I saw Raised in the Sun’s new Coachella Valley Girlmerch, I was instantly obsessed. Created by Cathedral City native Denise Rodriguez Bowman—whom I met at a recent Rise 2 Shine Collective gathering, where I was lucky enough to winthe pictured tote—the line is playful, pastel-coded, and absolutely adorable. Currently available at Hot Lips Coffee Shop, I’m already eyeing the pink version—it’s basically my entire personality in bag form.

I was born in Mississippi, but moved with my mom and two sisters to Tennessee, where I spent most of my childhood and youth. It’s funny, while living in the south, most people asked where my accent was from — they thought we were from the Midwest or California. But since moving to CA, I can definitely hear my southern accent. LOL!

This could be a long answer — I really just pursued anything that intrigued me or pulled me towards it, which was a lot. Followed curiosity wherever it led and I’m just really into being alive. My academic journey spanned 15 years at university and it was wide-ranging and philosophically formative. It was a devotion of mind, body, and soul, really, but creativity and music have always been steadfast anchors of growth and inward exploration in my life. My family is largely creative and musically-oriented. I did study fashion design, but left to pursue philosophy because it felt like it was stemming from a deeper, more valuable or meaningful current. Best decision of my life, really, was pursuing philosophy as a path. I began a doctoral program (consciousness studies), but opted for the path of a master’s degree instead. After graduation, I decided to move back to Nashville. Found myself working in tech but eventually resigned, then out of left-field, began working as a wardrobe stylist in the music industry assisting an established stylist there. That was the most fun and fruitful gig, connecting with so many talented and humble people, everyone making their own dreams come to life. That’s when I started making jewelry — learned how to work with metal, metalsmithing. Happy to be here in the beautiful Coachella Valley now! Just completely in awe of the desert and everything about it. It feels as if I’ve come alive here in some sort of way that is directly related to the sun and stars. Can’t put my finger on it yet, but I’m here for it.

This is a crazy story, actually, one that I’ve been trying to flesh out since moving here, but I’ve been so busy with jewelry and life. Basically, during my first semester in grad school, I had a powerful dream that took place in the desert. But I didn’t experience the desert until a vacation in 2021 — eight years after the dream.

My family lives along the coast of California, so the desert was a completely new/different place to me. I decided to book a month-long trip to get away from the COVID situation, so I could breathe and write. I had some kind of yearning for solitude, reflection, and to just write something. I recalled the dream from grad school and booked the trip. Thirty minutes later, I saw a snake (deceased) in the parking lot but it looked like it was trying to eat its own tail. Like an Ouroboros. I thought that was interesting and strange timing. 

Shortly after arriving in La Quinta, I knew I was supposed to live here. It was like my insides finally matched my outsides. Some kind of instant harmony or resonance occurred. I knew almost immediately, and it changed the tone and intention of the trip — from devoting myself to writing, to simply being here in this place.

The trip ended with me signing a lease on the house I live in now, which just happens to have the same rock mound I was sitting on in my dream, gazing at the colorful skies in amazement, which is what I do now. It’s truly crazy. So, I guess you could say a dream brought me here.

Since a young age, yes. I would get lost in my grandmother’s wardrobe. She had beautiful garments from Italy, tons of furs, pearls, jewels, hats, gloves. She taught me how to sew when I was 5-6 years old and the love of wardrobe stayed with me. I was constantly sketching ideas through middle school & high school. I applied to FIT in NYC when I was a senior in high school and was accepted on scholarship, but my dad took me to visit the campus, and while we were there, he told me I wasn’t ready to live in a big city. I went to design school in Nashville instead, but dropped out to pursue philosophy. Back again, full circle.

There were many things about tech that I loved and thrived in, but I’m creative to the core and that aspect of myself was largely ignored and neglected, therefore always calling out to me — so I resigned. Even though the job offered financial security and stability, I just couldn’t do it another day. I resigned without a plan and while I was on my bed journaling and crying about what I had just done, my old roommate called and asked if I could help her friend, a celebrity stylist in the music industry who was growing fast and needed an assistant stylist. I dried my eyes and said yes. This is when my creative spark rekindled and I subsequently started a jewelry line.

Lots of reading, experimenting, and YouTube videos of professionals. I watched, listened, learned, and then gave it a go. The more mistakes I made, the better I got at it. Working with metal is very challenging — it will cut you, burn you, make you scream — but it is how I’ve learned to be more patient, gentle, and intentional. I have a lot of respect for metal and metalworkers.

Ooooh, I like this question because I don’t have an immediate answer! When I’ve incorporated desert symbolism into a piece, that feels especially Sunhawk, because I renamed the jewelry line to reflect the move here and the transition to creating desert-vibed jewelry. I do love making sculptural pieces and would like to make more. I’m recently working with gorgeous gemstones that catch the sunlight in incredibly beautiful ways, and that excites me, to see where this takes my work and how I can infuse metal. My creative urges, though, bend towards pieces that look like ancient artifacts or gallery pieces. Basic stuff bores me to death. I like a challenge, some mystery, some weirdness, some edge.

I’m absolutely obsessed with colorful and sparkly gemstones and diamonds. And alchemical symbols! And I’m dying to cross the rainbow bridge into gold. Working with brass and bronze has been all I’ve had access to for nearly a decade, I’m beyond ready to work with gold but I’m self-funded and self-operating, which has made it so difficult. I’m working on my first ever rose gold custom piece right now and it has given me so much hope and excitement. It’s symbolic and huge for me.

I don’t have a structured process, but everything begins in my imagination — playing with shapes and lines and colors in my head and how they will be framed on the body. I let the stone speak and tell me all the ways it could potentially be worked with. Sometimes a piece will completely change in the middle of the process. I stay open to the process and let it happen through me.

The beauty of this place shows up and comes through all the time. I can’t believe my eyes when I look at this landscape and every detail about it. It blows me away and keeps me endlessly inspired. The energy is immaculate, the wildlife is abundant and sacred, the plants are shocking and surreal, the entire ecosystem amazes me and I hope to infuse that into everything I make while living here.

Beauty, confidence, and elegance — all of the natural sort.

My website is the main hub, but also Instagram (I try to stay present but my hands are busy!) — and locally at It Refills in Palm Desert, the weekly Sunday market in Old Town La Quinta, as well as Late Sunday Afternoon in Venice Beach.

That is a huge part of my business. It’s fully collaborative, an exchange of open dialogue, which takes place via emails. Someone lets me know their idea or need/desire in a piece, I then send sketches and ideas, then we go from there. I love the custom process and clients do, too. It’s quite special.

This excites me! Building the pond was a bit on the easy side, since I grew up working on farms. The first time I held a shovel, I was four years old. After I moved in to my current house, I saw how abundant the wildlife was, so I installed several water stations, but found myself constantly refilling them. The sun evaporates the water rapidly, but also the animals stay thirsty. I realized I needed a bigger water source and decided to get the ole shovel out. I decided on a spot underneath a gorgeous pinyon pine tree, where the animals love finding shade, and then sketched shapes to fit the space. Once the shape was decided upon, I did some research, made a plan, then started digging. I ended up making it twice the size I initially planned, and once I saw how much the hummingbirds loved bathing in the waterfall, I installed another one. I did all the labor myself and every day the love blesses me — it stays busy with animals and is how Dahsha found me. The pond turned out to be a pot of gold in this rainbow land. I’ve never seen so many rainbows in my life as I’ve seen living here. Something about the atmosphere. I can’t live without wildlife, at this point. In fact, I feel myself becoming more wild being here amongst them.

Dahsha is unreal — she gets better each day and now that she’s coming out of survival mode, her personality is starting to beam and she is such a beacon of love, innocence, playfulness, and joy. I’m still in shock from the rescue. I truly cannot believe she is alive, much less, my new best friend, roommate, and love of my life. I’m trying to wrap my head around all the layers of the rescue and the unforeseen timing of events which unfolded. I had very little control or power over the situation, and all I could do was stay as present as possible, dedicate my mind/body/soul to ensuring the safety of the two puppies, and exhausting every ounce of myself until they were safe and secure. We will miss Salami Mami forever and honor her. Dahsha is now safe, secure, and absolutely spoiled.

Bringing Angelo in a few weeks ago was unexpected, but he’s a sweet ball of sunshine and just wants peace and friends. He came from the same dog-hoarding house Dahsha and Salami Mami ran away from. When I got the phone call that Salami Mami’s sibling was just mauled nearly to death, and then I went over and saw his condition, it was clear if he didn’t go to the emergency room he would die in a matter of hours. His injuries were extreme and severe. Totally starved and dehydrated. At intake, they asked the name and “Angel” immediately popped into my mind. Then they asked the sex, but I had just met him and didn’t know, so we lifted the leg and saw it was a boy. So, I say, “We’ll call him Angelo.” And that he is. A total sweetheart, so gentle, tolerant, patient, and a beautiful little boy. And to think he was so tortured by other dogs for simply wanting to eat and be here. From what I know of him so far, he doesn’t have it in him to fight, especially for a meal. It’s a trauma rehab center right now in my studio, very chill and nourishing. Lotta love, lotta food, lotta snuggles, and a lotta walks outside.

[Editor’s note – you can read more about Angelo’s rescue and donate to his recovery here.]

I feel as a business owner here, that it is easy to connect with other business owners. The spirit of entrepreneurship is alive here! I was surprised how much potential exists in the Valley as a business-minded person. I would love to keep building here. The community is solid and fluid, also completely open to the arts. What a reward that is for us all.

Stay open, let ideas evolve, get connected. I feel weird offering others advice, but those three things will certainly lead to somewhere good.

The air! The sun! The energy! The life growing here! Everything — every cell of my body is in love with this place.

Handel’s Ice Cream — I joke, but I haven’t eaten at many places yet, and am open to recommendations. If I’m down in the Valley, I usually stop at Chef Tanya’s Kitchen to grab something. I like Mastro’s steakhouse on El Paseo, The Daily Grill, Baby’s Marché, The Venuesushi, some spots in Palm Springs. Would love to know any good spots to eat.

I really don’t leave home much, but It Refills (pictured) is a special shop and feels like the future. Sustainable everything — I love it. it feels like a bright, happy, and clean hug in there. El Paseo and Old Town La Quinta are wonderful and where I take people when they visit. Elizabeth & Prince is a gorgeously curated store. As a lifelong tennis player, the BNP Paribas Open feels like Disney World to me. I look forward to it every year and can’t wait to join a tennis club at some point. I would love to start a line of stylish tennis wear — I’m already cooking something up in the jewelry kitchen for the tennis ladies in the Valley. Stay tuned!

515 N. PALM CANYON DR., PS

This desert staple is tucked into Palm Springs’ idyllic The Corridor shopping complex and boasts a stunning rear courtyard brimming with wandering paths, towering palm trees and multiple shaded enclaves.

750 N. PALM CANYON DR., PS

Located in Palm Springs’ Flannery Exchange building, Café La Jefa features exquisitely stylized side and front patios decorated to the nines with pastel florals, a blush-hued airstream, an expansive deck and hanging chairs to take it all in.

100 W. TAHQUITZ CANYON, PS

Situated on the lower level of The Rowan hotel in downtown Palm Springs, this breakfast spot serves stellar lattes on a sun-dappled patio overlooking a bustling courtyard filled with vivid art installations, tall palms and lively street performances.

37977 BOB HOPE DR., RM

One of my favorite spots to grab coffee and/or lunch, Sunnylands Café is nestled aside the gardens at Sunnylands Center in Rancho Mirage, offering visitors exceptional views of desert foliage, tranquil walking paths and serene fountains.

74868 COUNTRY CLUB DR., PD

This independent coffee house in Palm Desert is fronted by a glass-paned garage door providing dramatic views of the surrounding desert landscape and endless miles of blue sky.

78065 MAIN ST.,  LA QUINTA

Perched in the center of Old Town La Quinta, Yes, Please makes for a gorgeous spot to witness the beauty of the desert, with mountain peaks seemingly so close, you almost feel as if you can reach out and touch them. Arrive early to snap up one of the shop’s baked goods, which sell out by 10 a.m. daily.

78100 MAIN ST., LA QUINTA

The covered patio at Main Street Coffee, also located in Old Town La Quinta, overlooks the plaza’s bucolic central lawn and charming Spanish-style buildings and is one of my favorite places to spend a lazy morning.  

49499 EISENHOWER DR., LQ

Positioned on the staggeringly gorgeous grounds of the La Quinta Resort and featuring a fabulous shaded terrace, this spot offers pristine views of the historic hotel’s tiered waterway, terra cotta rooflines and Saltillo-tiled paths.

CAESAR CHAVEZ & 6TH STREETS, COACHELLA

Edoardo Tresoldi’s wire mesh creation, which resembles an ethereal Baroque palace, debuted at Coachella in 2018, along with two sister structures, and was relocated to its current home the following year. Standing 54 feet, the airy installation beckons passersby to breeze through its wispy archways.

SHADY LANE & AVENUE 52, COACHELLA

A fixture at the 2015 festival, this 15-foot-tall bear is the work of frequent Coachella contributor Don Kennell. Crafted from recycled materials, including rusted steel and glass, and clutching a large swing, the massive piece now guards the southern edge of Shady Lane Park.

82200 DR. CARREON BLVD., INDIO

Meaning “House of Celebration,” these colorful structures were exhibited at Coachella 2019.  Modeled after baobab trees, which hollow from the center as they grow, the installation originally featured 12 towers, nine of which are now installed at Dr. Carreon Park, providing shade and respite to visitors on hot desert days.

 81253 AVE. 48, INDIO

Another work crafted by Don Kennell (his first to be displayed at Coachella!), this 12 by 20 foot steel and corrugated metal pup was featured at the 2013 festival complete with a large porch swing hanging from its center. Though the swing is long gone, the dog, inspired by Rome’s famous “Lupa Capitolina” sculpture, now stands sentinel at the northwest tip of Hjorth Park.

SMURR ST. & MILES AVE., INDIO

A 2019 festival installation, these three lanky cacti sculptures, initially part of a group of seven, were crafted from steel by Andrew Kovacs. Relocated in 2022, they stand at 14, 17 and 20 feet tall, overlooking downtown Indio and a mountainous mural painted by Zach JF Boyles.

81600 REVOIR PL., INDIO

This towering figure by artist Kumkum Fernando graced the concert grounds in 2023, part of a trio of “Idols” standing 80 feet tall. Today, it is stationed, along with several other Coachella installations, in the yard of a private home owned by the Empire Polo Club. (Note – this one can’t be seen during festival times due to road closures.)

TOWNE ST. & BLISS AVE., INDIO

This metallic cactus sculpture was actually built for 2023’s Power Trip heavy metal festival, not Coachella, but is worth a visit nonetheless. Cheeky and fun, the piece was created by Don Kennell and his wife, Lisa Adler, and calls to fans of both rock ‘n’ roll and Saguaro cacti.

This immersive open-air exhibit allows guests to walk amongst a habitat of red-necked (or Bennett’s) wallabies, providing intimate access to the adorable macropods as they jump, lounge and dine throughout the shaded grounds. Be sure not to miss Hoppy Hour at the adjacent Kookaburra Cafe, held each Tuesday and Thursday from 3 to 5 p.m., with such delicacies as craft cocktails and cowboy caviar nachos on hand.

   A fun adventure for both children and adults, guests are invited to get up close and personal with a charming herd of giraffes in the African Safari area of the park as they roam the sundrenched landscape alongside ostriches and greater kudus. For an even more specialized experience, patrons can hand-feed botanical treats to the majestic mammals (the tallest living animals on earth!) for just $10.

This shaded enclave of California fan palms in the Wild Americas section of the park was inspired by the many oases that dot the northern end of the Coachella Valley. Dense with foliage and surrounding a tiny pond, the tranquil idyll is leagues cooler than any other area of the zoo (by several degrees!), offering much-needed respite during hot summer days.

It’s “All aboard!” the Bighorn Railroad at this expansive ¾-acre G-scale model train exhibit. With over 3,300 feet of track and imaginative recreations of such spots as the Grand Canyon, Old Mission Santa Barbara and downtown Indio, one can spend hours getting lost in the intricate details. Currently undergoing a massive restoration(courtesy of 65 volunteers!), the display remains worth a visit nonetheless.

Who doesn’t love a petting zoo? This one, tucked away in Village WaTuTu in the park’s African Safari area, boasts a collection of friendly creatures native to West and South Africa, including adorable – and most definitely precocious – Boer and Nigerian dwarf goats, all eager for head pats, as well as the chance to nibble a t-shirt or two!

Three distinctive walking trails of varying lengths and degrees of difficulty are located in the park’s Wild Americas region, offering visitors a chance to amble off the beaten path. The one-mile “Adventure Loop” leads hikers to a San Andreas Fault exhibit offering gorgeous vistas of the fault line. (Note – all three trails are closed during the summer months.)

Play spot the bighorn on this craggy bluff located on the southern edge of Wild Americas, where massive bighorn sheep seamlessly blend in with the scenery. Pinpoint one and you won’t be able to stop tracking the majestic creatures across the picturesque mountain landscape.