Buying and selling a home can be challenging. You need an agent who is laser-focused on your unique needs. Having lived and worked in Ahwatukee and the southeast valley for over 20 years, my passion for this community comes through in my warmth, work ethic, philanthropic endeavors, and connections with a clientele who are as committed to me as I am to them! From staging and prepping, to spearheading renovations, finding contractors and delivering expert market advice, I will dedicate myself to your project as if it were my own.
Give me a call or scan the code for a complimentary market analysis on your home and find out why important decisions demand Savvy Solutions.
real estate report
Rec ent ly so l d p roperties in Ahwa tu kee.
The Greatest Loves of All
Whitney Houston’s iconic song is playing in my head. You know the one… “I believe the children are our future. Teach them well and let them lead the way.” You’re welcome (or, I’m sorry) because I’m sure you can hear it in your head now, too.
Before having my son, I couldn’t have imagined the joy, love and laughter he brings to my life every day. His triumphs, growth and empathy for others always make me feel that I could burst with pride. He’s taught me the value of patience, the importance of being silly every once in a while, and that you’re never too old to snuggle on the couch and enjoy an episode of “Bluey” before bedtime.
We’ve also just recently passed the one-year mark with our Golden Retriever. Growing up, I always wanted a dog, and it has been its own unique learning experience (puppyhood is wild), but I couldn’t imagine this season of life without him.
There’s no denying the integral part children and pets play in our lives. Inside these pages, we celebrate the indelible mark they leave. We discover the exquisite black-and-white pooch portraits of Danielle Harris Studio and learn why capturing the images of people and their pets is such a meaningful endeavor.
We also visit Hanai Coffee + Cocktails, a coffee shop a short drive away in Laveen, that is dedicated to helping support and empower foster youth through employment.
There’s so much to discover in this issue and I’m thrilled to share it with you. I hope you find it insightful, inspiring and fun!
BETH DEL VILL, EDITOR @AHWATUKEECITYLIFESTYLE
August 2024
PUBLISHER
Sherry York | sherry.york@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Beth Del Ville | beth.delville@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Alison Stanton, Beth Del Ville, Lisa Moyer, Angela Broockerd
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Qiana Kelsch, Shannon Liebrock, Stephanie Slezak, Janie Jones
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray
inside the issue
Portrait of a Pup
Danielle Harris Studios
Ser ving Up Opportunity
Sara and Ryan Senters
Senior Photo Secrets
Photographer Shannon Liebrock shares tips
by Jaime Harris of Danielle Harris Studios.
business monthly
Bark and Luv Opens at the Shoppes at Casa Paloma
Bark and Luv, the premier retail destination for pets, recently opened at the Shoppes at Casa Paloma. The pet store sells a variety of high-quality pet products, including food, toys, treats, pet accessories and more. Bark and Luv also features a self-serve dog wash center, with private rooms and raised bathtubs, equipped with all the necessary bath amenities, from shampoo and conditioner,
K Medspa Moves to New Location
K Medspa, a leading provider of medical-grade services and treatments designed to enhance one’s natural beauty, moved to its new location at Warner and McClintock roads. Kristine M. Reynolds, RN, BSN, owner and advanced aesthetic injector, provides leading-edge medical and cosmetic solutions for patients to improve their appearance and well-being without invasive surgeries. KMedspa.com
PORTRAIT OF A PUP
ARTICLE BY ALISON STANTON
DANIELLE HARRIS STUDIOS CAPTURES THE RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN DOGS AND PEOPLE
PHOTOGRAPHY BY DANIELLE HARRIS STUDIOS ARTIST’S PALETTE
Jaime Harris has always had a passion for pups.
Harris, owner of Danielle Harris Studios, a photography studio in the East Valley, currently has three dogs of her own, as well as fosters.
When Harris schedules a photo shoot with clients, she is happy to include their dogs in the session.
“I specialize in capturing the bonds between family members, including dogs,” Harris says.
“Most of us have a bazillion adorable pics of our dogs on our phones. However, most of us don’t have a lot of great images with our dogs.”
Unlike some photographers who only take photos of people and their dogs outside, Harris prefers to work in her studio.
“I fell in love with the timeless look and feel of studio photography years ago, which is why I stay exclusively indoors,” she says, adding that she specializes in black and white portraits.
“I feel like the connections are captured better without the focusing on the background, backdrop, flooring, furniture and clothing like you can sometimes do in color images.”
Although Harris will gladly photograph playful puppies with their humans, she says there is something extra special about capturing a senior dog with their human.
“I find that senior dogs often have a more visible connection with their owners, so I tend to do more senior dog sessions rather than puppy sessions. But I absolutely love them all and each connection is unique!”
Harris is currently using her passion for photographing dogs as a way to help Almost There Rescue, an organization that helps pregnant and nursing dogs and their puppies.
“I am building the ‘Furever Home’ portrait book with dogs and their humans to raise $15,000 for the rescue,” she says, adding that participants will receive a portrait session with their dog valued at $450, as well as a $100 credit towards any digitals or printed artwork they would like to purchase.
There is no obligation to buy photos, and participants are guaranteed to be featured in the book.
“There is a $100 fee to participate and a $100 deposit that can be used towards a purchase or is fully refunded if you decide not to purchase,” Harris says, adding that the participation fee, book proceeds and 5% of all sales proceeds will be donated to the rescue.
Harris says she loves capturing the special moments between people and their beloved dogs.
“It’s truly heartwarming to watch peoples’ reactions when they see the finished portrait. I love hearing things like ‘I never capture her looking like that’ or ‘she never sits that still for me.’”
Jaime Harris
Jaime Harris has lived in Arizona for most of her life, and since the 1980s has called many parts of the Valley home. For as long Harris can remember, she has been involved with arts, music, and photography. As she explains, capturing relationships through a lens is her passion and something that she is extremely proud to be a part of with her studio. In her spare time, Harris and her family love to spend time with their dogs and horses, travel, and participate in different fundraising activities.
DHarrisStudios.com | 602.932.7375 | For details about the fundraiser, visit DHarrisStudiosAZ.com/Almost-There
Danielle Harris Studios
Jaime Harris with her dogs (from left) Echo, George and Willow.
Amy O. Duenas
Carrie P. Cravatta
Dori L. Eden
Opportunity SERVING UP
Hanai's cream sodas in lime, blue raspberry, orange and cherry.
Sara and Ryan Senters are changing foster youths’ lives, one espresso shot at a time
ARTICLE BY BETH DEL VILLE
PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHANIE SLEZAK
In an unassuming strip mall just a short drive around the 202 from Ahwatukee to Laveen, there’s a coffee shop where you are greeted with a warm and welcoming interior, with blues as rich and deep as the Pacific Ocean and whites as frothy as seafoam. The colors and décor are the same style you would find in owners Sara and Ryan Senters’ home, and they invite customers into their ohana , the Hawaiian word
Hanai Coffee + Cocktails owners Sara and Ryan Senters.
Adriana serving up a blended ice chai.
for family, when they step through the doors of Hanai Coffee + Cocktails.
But the Hawaiian-themed coffee shop serves not just coffee drinks and breakfast items; it also serves the community. Hanai, which means “chosen family” in Hawaiian, employs and mentors foster teens so they can develop into hardworking and passionate members of society.
“We are more than a business,” says Ryan. “We are a social enterprise focused on helping others. We opened to support foster youth, providing them with valuable work experience and essential life skills.”
Helping children in foster care is a passion for the Senters, and one they have taken deeply to heart as they have been adoptive and foster parents for more than 12 years. They also founded a non-profit organization, Friends of Ohana, which aims to help foster youth and adults with special needs with support services, including job placement at businesses like Hanai.
To date, Hanai has employed 15 foster youth since opening in May 2022. Ryan says it’s rewarding to see the impact having a job and earning their own money has on the teens. One teen had saved the money she earned working at the coffee shop and purchased her own car, which she proudly showed off to Ryan in Hanai’s parking lot.
“Kids aging out of foster care are the most at-risk and misunderstood. Every kid has a story and every story matters,” he says. “They just need a chance, and they’ll exceed expectations. When we give them guidance and support, they end up becoming some of our best employees and even teach us how to be better. They just need an adult to show up and believe in them, and they will thrive.”
HanaiAZ.com | @HanaiAZ 3648 W Southern Ave. Unit 148 Phoenix, Ariz. 85041
Members of the Senters family gather at Hanai Coffee + Cocktails. Photo by David Sorensen.
A selection of Hanai Coffee + Cocktails toasts on a locally made custom wood board.
SENIOR PHOTO SECRETS
Photographer Shannon Liebrock shares tips for getting the most out of senior portraits sessions
ARTICLE BY BETH DEL VILLE
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHANNON
LIEBROCK
Photographer Shannon Liebrock is a master at senior images and knows the importance of capturing the monumental moment of moving from youth to young adult.
“Senior year is a milestone in every person’s life,” she says.
“It’s the culmination of years of hard work and perseverance, and should be documented and cherished.”
Liebrock says it’s important to find a photographer that matches a senior’s style and who they feel comfortable with, and who fits into your budget. “Ask the photographer
ASHTON MATTHEWS
BRAYLEN SINGLETON
MEGAN WASTCHAK
PAYTON AGNEW
AUSTIN KOSS
JACOB SAUCEDO
to send you a couple of complete galleries,” she suggests. “Most photographers can show you one or two good shots from a photoshoot; make sure they can consistently produce good images.”
When choosing looks and locations for the shoot, make selections based on the senior’s personality. She says to “dress in clothes that make you feel like you and that you’re comfortable in.” Liebrock shares that most opt for three looks: dressy, casual and either a sport/ activity or college announcement. Liebrock encourages her seniors to bring props to incorporate into shoots like accessories, pets, cars, musical instruments and sporting equipment, and even shirts or banners of the college they plan to attend. “The props help tell a story of where you have been and where you are going.”
Finally, make sure to collaborate with the photographer to ensure they get the perfect shot. “Have fun with your photographer,” says Liebrock. “If you have an idea that you want to try, let them know! The more you work in tandem with them, the better the photos will be.”
Shannon Liebrock / @LiebrockPhotography1
Liebrock is a nationally recognized photographer with more than 30 years of experience. She loves to photograph sports and seniors and says her greatest compliment is when a mom tells her that she captured the true essence of their child. She lives in the East Valley with her husband, has three children and two grandchildren. LiebrockPhotography.com
OLIVIA MORENO
TAYLOR BROOKS
PhotobyMelissa
Shumway Photography
BIRTHDAY IN A BOX
An easy and heartwarming way to give back with your kids while helping to brighten someone’s special day
ARTICLE BY BETH DEL VILLE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY QIANA KELSCH
Looking for a fun, easy and creative way to help those in need celebrate their special day? Put together a Birthday in a Box! The main element is a birthday cake, and the best part is that no perishable items are needed; all you need is one can of lemon-lime soda to take the place of the oil, water and eggs.
And what is a birthday celebration without decorations? Get the kids to help decide what fun party decorations to include – think candles, banners, confetti, ribbon and more.
These are great to make in batches when items are on sale at the grocery store. Stock up and make someone’s day!
prep:
Collect all materials. Makes one Birthday in a Box.
• 1 box of cake mix
• 1 container of frosting
• 1 can of lemon-lime soda
• 1 disposable 9x13 aluminum baking pan with lid
• Cardstock or heavy paper, for baking directions and note (printed or handwritten)
• Party decorations of choice, including candles
step one:
Gather cake mix, container of frosting, can of lemon-lime soda, aluminum baking pan with lid and party decorations. Carefully place each item in the bottom of the baking pan, ensuring everything fits snugly.
step two:
Print or handwrite the instructions on cardstock, letting the recipient know to replace the oil, eggs and water with the can of lemon-lime soda, following the directions on the back of the cake mix box. You can also include a birthday wish.
step three:
Once all the items are in the pan, secure the lid and tie the package with a ribbon for an added festive touch. Deliver to your favorite food pantry.
ADDITIONAL ITEMS TO CONSIDER: Include candles; balloons; a birthday banner; noisemakers; a blank card for friends and family to sign; a small, gender-neutral gift or a gift card; birthday-themed paper plates and napkins. You don’t have to make each box the same – choose a different cake mix and frosting flavor for each box!
Putting it together 1
Collect your essentials and special decorations
2
Place each element in the baking pan, including directions, and cover with the lid
3
Time to deliver
Collect your birthday cake boxes together and drop it at your favorite food pantry
AUGUST 2024
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
SATURDAYS THROUGH AUGUST
Flashlight Nights
Desert Botanical Gardens | 6:30 PM
Escape the heat and explore the Desert Botanical Gardens after dark. Discover the Garden’s five thematic trails, encounter desert creatures, and immerse yourself in the captivating nighttime ambiance with cool drinks and treats. Enjoy access to food trucks, Breezy Pops, s’mores, adult and non-alcoholic beverages, and more. DBG.org
SUNDAYS
Ahwatukee Farmers Market
Ahwatukee Swim & Tennis Center | 8:00 AM
Every Sunday, the Ahwatukee Farmers Market offers a selection of food, produce and more from local artisans and makers. The market is open from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. now through the end of September at the Ahwatukee Swim & Tennis Center, located at 4700 E Warner Road. ArizonaCommunityFarmersMarkets.com
AUGUST 20TH - 25TH
Girl from the North Country
ASU Gammage
The 2024-2025 season of the Broadway Series at ASU Gammage kicks off with the Tony Award-winning new musical set in Duluth, Minnesota in 1934 about a group of wayward travelers whose lives intersect in a guesthouse filled with music, life and hope. The musical features 20 reimagined songs of Bob Dylan, including “Forever Young,” “All Along the Watchtower,” “Like a Rolling Stone,” and more. For more information on tickets and showtimes, visit ASUGammage.com
AUGUST 24TH
311: Unity Tour with AWOLNATION & Neon Trees
Arizona Financial Theatre | 7:00 PM
Reggae-inspired alt-rockers 311 return the Valley for their Unity Tour featuring special guests AWOLNATION and Neon Trees. Concertgoes will enjoy the band’s hits including "Amber," "Love Song," "Down," and "All Mixed Up.” Tickets, VIP packages and more details are available at LiveNation.com
AUGUST 30TH - SEPTEMBER 1ST
Diamondbacks vs LA Dodgers Chase Field
C Y elebrate ourself
Nicole Hanhan, LCSW
"The greatest gift you can give yourself is YOU."
The Diamondbacks host the Los Angeles Dodgers at Chase Field for a three-game series from Aug. 30-Sept. 1 at Chase Field. Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Weekend on Aug. 31 with a postgame concert presented by Waymo featuring Grupo Control. Special Event ticket packages are available. For ticket information and game times, visit MLB.com/DBacks
AUGUST 31ST
Tyga | Oasis Pool Party
Gila River Resorts at Wild Horse Pass | 6:00 PM
Tyga, known for hits like “AYO” and “Juicy,” will ignite the Oasis Pool with his electrifying performance, weaving club bangers with smooth jams. General admission and VIP tickets are available. This is a 21 and older event. For tickets and details, visit PlayAtGila.com
Nicole Hanhan, LCSW, is a therapist, mentor, and the founder of Hanhan Wellness, LLC, a therapy private practice offering virtual services to residents of Arizona & California. Her mission is to teach emotional leadership through a transformative journey of uncovering one’s inner power. She holds the conviction that removing obstacles enables us to embrace our uniqueness and live a life filled with celebration and fulfillment.
Specialties
Life
Traumatic
experiences
Depression & anxiety
Self-esteem
Boundaries
Adults
First
Responders
Teenagers
Couples
Families
I'm fueled by a deep passion for aiding others in their healing journey With a wide array of advanced trainings, I bring both openness & effectiveness to each unique individual Recognizing our complexity, I meet you where you are and walk alongside you as you evolve into your best self It's a privilege to be a part of your transformative experience!
Whether your pup has the obedience of a dog show finalist, or social behavior that makes you want to play dead around others, you can develop more owner confidence with help from this expert trainer.
ARTICLE BY LISA MOYER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES | STYLED BY ANGELA BROOCKERD
DOG
SOCIALIZING
“Socializing your dog is beneficial for both dogs and their owners,” says Taryn Tyler, a certified dog trainer. “It creates confidence for both dogs and owners and displaces the anxiety we feel when our dogs aren’t behaving like we want them to.”
Taryn stresses that teaching a dog to sit or stay is less about tricks and more about the relationship that builds between animal and owner. “We all love our dogs, but they can be stressful when they can’t seem to click in our home environments.
• Socializing is more than taking your dog in public. A guy can dump a bunch of mulch in your driveway and spread it, but he’s not a landscaper until he’s following a plan. When the doorbell rings or a visitor comes into the house, what’s our expectation for the dog? When we’re in public and the dog’s attention is diverted, what’s our plan to refocus them? Socialization is 99% working on small steps as part of a larger plan.
• Socializing isn’t about our dogs being the center of attention in public. Everyone loves seeing a dog, but our best outcome for the dog is to go unnoticed. Sitting by our side, ignoring external stimuli, remaining calm—those are things we strive for when socializing a dog.
• When socializing dogs with other dogs, start small. Take a walk with another dog to get them to just exist in the same vicinity. Once they’re able to not be excited by the other dog, work on limited playing in controlled environments.
• If someone comes into your home, let them know what boundaries you’re working on with your dog. You can even suggest asking them to carry a few treats and work on some of the behaviors your dog is already comfortable with.
