Category: Uncategorized

Festival of Arts
Laguna Beach
July 5 – September 1, 2023

Discover the Festival of Arts in Laguna Beach- a juried fine art show featuring 140 of Orange County’s top artists in an open-air gallery setting. A world-renowned art destination, visitors can take tours of the exhibit, catch an art demonstration, dine at one of the on-site restaurants, create their own masterpieces, or simply sit back and enjoy the creative atmosphere. Weekends are jam-packed with live music and special events providing entertainment for all.

LOCATION:
650 Laguna Canyon Rd
Laguna Beach, CA 92651

INFORMATION:
800-487-3378

Pageant of the Masters “Art Colony: In the Company of Artists”
Laguna Beach
July 7 – September 1, 2023
Shows Nightly at 8:30 pm

The Pageant of the Masters is arguably one of the most unique productions in the entire world. Each evening during the summer season, classic and contemporary works of art are faithfully re-created with theatrical illusion and real people posing as living pictures. Enjoy art that comes to life under the stars in the Pageant’s outdoor amphitheater. In 2023, the Pageant of the Masters will celebrate the 90th anniversary of the first presentation of “living pictures” at the Festival of Arts. From that humble beginning, the Pageant has continued to evolve and grow into the world-class entertainment it is today. The 2023 production, “Art Colony: In the Company of Artists,” will acknowledge the deep connections and memorable stories of artists assisting one another throughout the world and throughout history.

Tickets start at $35 per person (Includes season pass to the Festival of Arts Fine Art Show)

LOCATION:
650 Laguna Canyon Rd
Laguna Beach, CA 92651

TICKETS / INFORMATION:
www.foapom.com
(949) 497-6582, (800) 487-3378

Festival of Arts Wine and Painting Nights Fridays, July 7 – August 18, 2023
8:30 pm

Uncork your creativity this summer at the Festival of Arts! Enjoy a fun painting workshop while surrounded by beautiful art. Learn easy painting step-by-step processes, as taught by Nikita Young. Participants must be 21 and older. Reservations are required. The class size is limited to 12 participants- so reserve early. Beginners and all levels are invited – take home your finished masterpiece!

Cost: $80 per person and includes supplies, complimentary wine or beverage, and Festival admission. Participants must be 21 and older

LOCATION:
Festival of Arts
650 Laguna Canyon Road
Laguna Beach, CA 92651

Festival of Arts Pints, Pinots, and Prints Saturdays, July 8 – August 19, 2023
8:30 pm

Create a beautiful one-of-a-kind print at the Festival of Arts! Using a variety of colorful handmade papers and hand cut relief blocks, students will learn the basics of monoprint, collage, and overprint techniques in this creative printmaking class. Beginners and all levels are invited – take home your finished masterpiece!

Cost: $80 per person, per class, and includes supplies, complimentary wine or beverage, and Festival admission. Reservations are required. Participants must be 21 and older.

LOCATION:
Festival of Arts
650 Laguna Canyon Road
Laguna Beach, CA 92651

Festival of Arts Art, Jazz, Wine and Chocolate Thursdays, July 13 – August 31
5:30pm

Chocolate, wine, and all that jazz sweeten up the Festival of Arts this summer! On Thursday nights, indulge your senses at the “Art, Jazz, Wine and Chocolate” series. Sample a wide variety of wines specially selected and paired with gourmet chocolates.

Cost: $25 (does not include Festival of Arts admission or reserved seating). Limited “nightclub” seating is available in reserved sections for $50 per person per concert.

LOCATION:
Festival of Arts
650 Laguna Canyon Road
Laguna Beach, CA 92651

Festival of Arts Adult/Teen Classes – Oil Painting – Laguna Beach July 14, 2023
3 :00 pm – 5:30 pm

Learn the timeless art of oil painting with Festival Exhibitor Carol Heiman-Greene. This class offers a fun and accessible way to explore the medium of oil paints, with step-by-step guidance from the instructor. You will learn the techniques used by master artists like Van Gogh and Rembrandt to create vibrant and stunning paintings. By the end of the class, you will have created a beautiful painting to take home and showcase your newfound skills. This class is perfect for anyone looking to learn or improve their oil painting techniques. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore your creativity with oil paints!

Cost: $65 fee per person, per class

LOCATION:
Festival of Arts
650 Laguna Canyon Road
Laguna Beach, CA 92651

The Orange County Fair – Costa Mesa
July 14 – August 13, 2023
Wednesdays-Sundays

It’s Time for Fun!! Tickets for the annual OC Fair are on sale, but with limited daily capacity this year, days could sell out. The annual Orange County Fair is the premier family attraction in Southern California, offering a wide variety of exhibits, foods, entertainment, rides, and hands-on activities. There is something for everybody at the Fair, including the summer headline concert series, working farm and petting zoos, thrill rides, contests, and games.

Tickets must be purchased in advance. There will be no transaction fees on Fair admission! Fairgoers should make sure to get tickets for special days and group adventures now.

LOCATION:
OC Fair & Event Center
88 Fair Drive
Costa Mesa, CA

INFORMATION:
714-708-FAIR

Dachshund Races – Huntington Beach Sunday, July 16, 2023
12 pm check-in. The race starts at 1 pm.

Great Family Fun! Come see these short-legged but swift ‘wiener dogs’ race to the finish line once a month at Old World Village.

The Wiener Dog Races are always one of the most popular attractions at Old World, and while the races are usually held once a month, during Oktoberfest, you’ll enjoy the ‘Running of the Wieners’ every Sunday between 3 pm – 4 pm. Placed into one of four weight classes, the Dachshunds run a 22-yard course with their owners at the finish line, luring their dogs to run toward them with colorful toys, food, cheers, and the occasional begging. Entry and admission prices vary.

LOCATION:
Old World Village Festival Hall
7561 Center Avenue #49
Huntington Beach

Festival of Arts Adult/Teen Classes – Oil Painting – Laguna Beach July 28, 2023
3:00 pm – 5:30 pm

Learn the timeless art of oil painting with Festival Exhibitor Carol Heiman-Greene. This class offers a fun and accessible way to explore the medium of oil paints, with step-by-step guidance from the instructor. You will learn the techniques used by master artists like Van Gogh and Rembrandt to create vibrant and stunning paintings. By the end of the class, you will have created a beautiful painting to take home and showcase your newfound skills. This class is perfect for anyone looking to learn or improve their oil painting techniques. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore your creativity with oil paints!

Cost: $65 fee per person, per class

LOCATION:
Festival of Arts
650 Laguna Canyon Road
Laguna Beach, CA 92651

If you’re thinking about selling your house right now, chances are it’s because something in your life has changed. And, while things like mortgage rates are a key part of your decision on what you’ll buy next, it’s important to not lose sight of the reason you want to make a change in the first place.

It’s true mortgage rates have climbed from the record lows we saw in recent years, and that has an impact on affordability. With rates where they are right now, some homeowners are deciding they’ll wait to sell because they don’t want to move and have a higher mortgage rate on their next home. As Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at Realtor.com, explains:

“. . . homeowners who locked in a 30-year fixed rate in the 2-3% range don’t necessarily want to give that up in exchange for a rate in the 6-7% range.”

But your lifestyle and your changing needs should matter more. Here are a few of the most common reasons people choose to sell today. Any one of these may be more important than keeping your current mortgage rate.

As Ali Wolf, Chief Economist at Zonda, says in a recent tweet:

“First-time and move-up buyers are both active . . . the latter driven by life changes. Divorce, marriage, new higher paid job, and existing home unsuitable all referenced.”

Relocation

Some of the things that can motivate a move to a new area include changing jobs, a desire to be closer to friends and loved ones, wanting to live in a dream location, or just looking for a change in scenery. 

For example, if you live in suburbia and just landed your dream job in NYC, you may be thinking about selling your current home and moving to the city for work. 

Upgrading

Many homeowners decide to sell to move into a larger home. This is especially common when there’s a need for more room to entertain, a home office or gym, or additional bedrooms to accommodate a growing number of loved ones.

For example, if you’re living in a condo and decide it’s time to seek out a home with more space, or if your household is growing, it may be time to find a home that better fits those needs. 

Downsizing

With inflation driving up everyday expenses, homeowners may also decide to sell to reduce maintenance and costs. Or, they may sell because someone’s moved out of the home recently, and there’s now more space than needed. It could also be that they’ve recently retired or are ready for a change.

For example, you’ve just kicked off your retirement, and you want to move to somewhere you can enjoy the warm weather and have less house to maintain. Your new lifestyle may be better suited for a different home. 

Change in Relationship Status

Divorce, separation, or marriage are other common reasons individuals sell to buy different homes.

For example, if you’ve recently separated, it may be difficult to still live under one roof. Selling and downsizing may be better options.

Health Concerns

If a homeowner faces mobility challenges or health issues that require specific living arrangements or modifications, they might sell their current home to find one that works better for them.

For example, you may be looking to sell your home and use the proceeds to help pay for a unit in an assisted-living facility.

With higher mortgage rates, there are some affordability challenges right now – but your needs and your lifestyle matter too. As a recent article from Bankrate says:

“Deciding whether it’s the right time to sell your home is a very personal decision. There are numerous important questions to consider, both financial and lifestyle-based, before putting your home on the market. . . . Your future plans and goals should be a significant part of the equation . . .”

Bottom Line

If you’re ready to sell your house so you can make a move, let’s connect so you have an expert on your side to help you navigate the process and find a home that can deliver on what you’re looking for.

Springtime is a great season to give your porch a makeover. If you’re feeling inspired, why not set about refreshing the look and feel of your porch? You could start by giving it a fresh coat of paint in a sunny shade. Even better, choose a color that ties in with the other exterior accents. Then, brighten up the area with lighting. Stringing small fairy lights around pillars or hanging colorful pendant lanterns can really make your porch come alive during the evening hours. Furthermore, laying out some outdoor rugs on the porch as well as adding cushions to seating areas, will make it feel warm and inviting throughout the day. Finally, include refreshing greens such as potted plants or even install a vertical garden – this will help add life and energy to your outdoor space. If you want to bring some extra life to your front porch, simple and creative ideas are all you need!

1. Plants

Adding potted plants is an easy and affordable way to decorate and refresh the outdoor space. Try different planters in a variety of sizes, colors, and materials—even reusable containers like baskets or wine crates can instantly bring character to your porch. If you’re looking for some extra color, pick out a few flowers, such as pansies or petunias, to really turn up the visual appeal. And don’t forget about herbs and vegetables too – you could even have a mini kitchen garden ready for harvest!

2. Rugs

Outdoor rugs are a great way to give your porch a fresh new look and create a cozy atmosphere for you, your family, and your friends. Outdoor rugs can be easily found at most home furnishing stores and come in an array of colors and patterns that can liven up any porch space. Perfect for the ever-changing spring weather, outdoor rugs are often made from durable materials that are both water-resistant and stylish. Adding one or two outdoor rugs on your porch will also help make it more inviting and give visitors somewhere cozy to sit and admire the fresh spring air.

3. Rustic Decor

Rustic decor continues to be a popular trend for the exterior of your home. Adorning your porch with rustic touches this spring can give it that charming, cozy vibe that many people enjoy. Consider hanging mason jars around your porch with lights or flowers to create a romantic atmosphere. Rustic chairs, colorful throw pillows, and bright planters all help to personalize the space. For an extra touch, use natural materials like jute to make rugs or wall hangings. Whichever way you choose to use it, incorporating rustic elements into your outdoor decor can make this spring your most stylish yet!

4. Lighting

When it comes to decorating your porch this spring, one of the most important components to include is lighting. Lighting can dramatically transform the atmosphere on your porch and instantly make it feel more inviting and cozy. By incorporating a few hanging string lights, you can create an illuminated canopy of twinkling stars above. If you want to inject some personality into your porch’s lighting scheme, consider hanging paper lanterns in different shapes, sizes, and colors. For added warmth and ambiance, opt for candle-style lanterns or torches with stakes that can be placed around the perimeter for a more enchanted feel. Lighting not only adds more visibility after dark but also adds beauty and charm — perfect for those fun garden parties!

5. Furniture

Furnishing your porch is one of the first steps to turning it into an inviting place this spring. With the right pieces of furniture, you can create a comfortable and stylish outdoor living area. Choose furniture that coordinates with the look and feel of your home and expresses your style. Forget about matching pieces – mix styles, textures, and colors to create a unique outdoor oasis where you can relax and entertain guests. Consider adding a dining set so that you can enjoy al fresco meals, a seating area for kicking back with friends, or a cozy hammock for soaking up some sunshine!

South Orange County comes alive during the holidays with its festive Christmas light displays. If you’re looking to celebrate the holiday season with a great outdoor display, check out these top picks for the best Christmas lights in South Orange County.

Aliso Viejo Christmas Lights

• 2 Falcon Crest Lane
• Carmel Neighborhood (Canyon Vistas & Pacific Park Drive)
• Rockrose St (Vista Pointe)
• Glenwood Community
• Grandbriar Street
• King Eider Lane
• 43 Woodswallow Lane

Ladera Ranch Christmas Lights

• Bramford Street
• Bainbridge Avenue
• Maryville Place Winfield & Mason
• Saybrooke Lane
• Shelton Court & Sutherland Drive
• Shively Street

Laguna Hills Christmas Lights

• Mawson Drive
• 25276 Orellano Way
• 23561 Marsala – A Merry Marsala Christmas
• 25473 Nellie Gail Road
• 26041 Spur Branch Lane
• 25241 Northrup Drive – The Northrup Pole
• 24422 Avenida De La Carlotta Suite 120A (M-F 9-5)
• 54 Laurel Creek Lane – Olaf Saves Christmas
• 25325 Gallup Circle – Elves Spreading Holiday Cheer2
• 4832 Largo Drive – Holiday Lights Mish Mash
• 24155 Laguna Hills Mall – Christmas At The Village
• 25071 Buckskin Drive – Light Festival
• 24992 Express Drive – Snowman Junction
• 26192 Bridlewood – Candy Cane Lane
• 25392 Champlain Road – Celebrating Christmas
• 24203 Avenida de la Carlotta – Oh Christmas Tree
• 26141 Red Corral Road – Candy Cane Lane #2
• 25301 Hillary Lane – A Christmas Miracle
• 25511 Lone Pine – Snowman Season
• 28431 Lost Trail – River Rock Christmas
• 24631 Ashland Drive – A Marshmallow World
• 24996 Hendon Street – The Ramirez Family House Of Lights
• 24712 Kim Circle – Up Up, and Away
• 26162 Buena Vista Court – The Gift Of Lights
• 25151 Northrup – Merry Christmas We Wish You
• 24902 Grissom Road – Away In A Manger
• 27322 Lost Colt Drive – Underseas Christmas
• 26295 Eva Street – Ho Ho Lights
• 24771 Rittenhouse – Abujudeh Family Christmas
• 25882 Spruce Lane – Santa’s Landing

Lake Forest Christmas Lights

• 22981 Belquest Drive
• Rushford Drive
• Ashbrook Street
• 23932 Barton Street
• Buckwood Street
• 25982 Dundee Drive
• 24952 Greenbay Drive
• Parkwood Street
• Rimrock Street
• Peachwood & Tamarisk
• Trabuco Canyon & Lake Forest Drive
• 25141 Steinway Circle
• 22472 Sunlight Creek Ave

Mission Viejo Christmas Lights Tour

Click the link below to take the holiday light tour:

https://mvactivities.com/PDF/HolidayLightsTour.pdf

Rancho Santa Margarita Christmas Lights

• 22 El Corazon
• El Corzo Lane (Candy Cane Lane Neighborhood) Located near 241/Melinda Road
• 11 Twilight Lane
• 16 Calle Liberacion
• 107 & 109 Calle De Los Ninos (Great Nightmare Before Christmas theme)

San Clemente Christmas Lights

• 3912 Calle Andalucia
• 2931 Calle Heraldo
• Talega Seaside Neighborhood
• Talega Stella Mare Neighborhood

If you’re a homeowner, odds are your equity has grown significantly over the last few years as home prices skyrocketed and you made your monthly mortgage payments. Home equity builds over time and can help you achieve certain goals. According to the latest Equity Insights Report from CoreLogic, the average borrower with a home loan has almost $300,000 in equity right now.

As you weigh your options, especially in the face of inflation and talk of a recession, it’s important to understand your assets and how you can leverage them. A real estate professional is the best resource to help you understand how much home equity you have and advise you on some of the ways you can use it.  Here are a few examples.

1. Buy a Home That Fits Your Needs

If you no longer have the space you need, it might be time to move into a larger home. Or it’s possible you have too much space and need something smaller. No matter the situation, consider using your equity to power a move into a home that fits your changing lifestyle.

If you want to upgrade your house, you can put your equity toward a down payment on the home of your dreams. And if you’re planning to downsize, you may be surprised that your equity may cover some, if not all, of the cost of your next home. A real estate advisor can help you figure out how much equity you have and how you can use it toward the purchase of your next home.

2. Reinvest in Your Current House

According to a recent survey from Point, 39% of homeowners would invest in home improvement projects if they chose to access their equity. This is a great option if you want to change some things about your living space but you aren’t ready to make a move just yet.

Home improvement projects allow you to customize your home to suit your needs and sense of style. Just remember to think ahead with any updates you make, as some renovations add more value to your home and are more likely to appeal to future buyers than others. For example, a report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows refinishing or replacing wood flooring has a high cost recovery. Lean on a local professional for the best advice on which projects to invest in to get the greatest return on your investment when you sell.

3. Pursue Your Personal Goals

In addition to making a move or updating your house, home equity can also help you achieve the life goals you’ve dreamed of. That could mean investing in a new business venture, retiring or downsizing, or funding an education. While you shouldn’t use your equity for unnecessary spending, leveraging it to start a business or putting it toward education costs can help you achieve other lifelong goals.

Bottom Line

Your equity can be a game changer. If you’re unsure how much equity you have in your home, let’s connect so you can start planning your next move.

It’s no secret that hosting a holiday get-together can be challenging. Between the food, decorating, and getting your space in tip-top shape, who has time to make sure the table looks just right?

The good news is that setting up your table the proper way doesn’t have to be difficult. Follow these tips to impress all of your guests this season.

Utensils

All forks being used should go on the left side, with the one you’re using first on the inside. The knife and spoon should go to the right of the dishes.

Glasses

The water glass and wine glass should both be placed to the right of the plate, in the order in which they will be used. If a champagne glass is set out, it would go farthest away.

Charger

This European-style decoration dish isn’t used for food but is the prime distinction between formal and informal affairs.

Entrée plate

This is where the main course will go, and it should be placed on top of the charger.

Napkin

There are various ways to fold a napkin, but no matter what method you choose, the napkin should be placed on the entrée plate instead of under the silverware.