Kirkland, WA May 2026

Thank you, Teddy!

As I was growing up, one of the most influential people in my life was my best friend’s mom, Teddy. She and her husband, Mel, raised 4 boys, and you can probably imagine what they put them through. Sleepless nights as rambunctious little boys, sports injuries with nearly every season, all that is included with music lessons, teaching them how to drive and how to be gentlemen as adolescence approached. Through it all, Teddy believed in her boys, and once you earned her trust, you were one of them, and that included getting an earful when you misbehaved or your grades didn’t show well.

At least once a week, I would drop in around dinner time to find Teddy making something amazing, and she always had just enough for anyone who showed up. Countless were the homemade pizzas Teddy baked for us as we grew from middle school-age, awkward boys into athletic, strong high school seniors. I can still hear her ask, “does your mom know you are here? Give her a call anyway, just to make sure.”

Teddy was my other mother, and I’ll forever be grateful for the love she showed me and all of the boys and young men who showed up at their door. She demonstrated, with everything she said and did, how to generously give of yourself without expecting anything in return.

This month, we celebrate the mothers in our lives, and it wouldn’t be the same without a note about my best friend and the mom who influenced us through the love she showed us all. Thank you, Teddy! Let the celebration begin!

PUBLISHER

May 2026 Visit our Instagram

Shannon Coy | shannon.coy@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Teresa Coy | teresa.coy@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Carley Ridley | carley.ridley@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Courtney Evans, Amber Dawn Schultheis, Lifestyle Staff

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Dawning Memories

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall

LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.

Real Time Pricing:

theSecret to Selling in Kirkland

As Kirkland’s real estate market continues to evolve, one thing has become increasingly clear — real-time pricing is the defining factor that distinguishes exceptional listings.

While thoughtful home preparation, preinspections, and elegant staging remain essential, the true difference between a listing and a sale often comes down to one element: the price.

In today’s fast-moving market, pricing is no longer a one-time decision based on past sales or quarterly reports. It’s a living strategy that responds to the rhythm of the market — shaped by interest rates, buyer positioning, and the subtle shifts that define local demand.

Real-time pricing requires more than experience; it calls for intuition, attentiveness, and a deep understanding of how buyers think and act in the moment. It’s about reading the market’s pulse and positioning your property with precision and purpose.

At Team Vincent, our approach blends expertise with genuine care. We take pride in offering a full-service experience that feels both personal and powerful — guiding our clients with integrity, insight, and a commitment to excellence. Our proven strategies and thoughtful execution consistently deliver strong results, even in competitive conditions. Your home deserves more than a listing; it deserves representation that reflects its true value. .

KatherineVincent

Katherine Vincent Zach Vincent

Windermere Yarrow Bay

206.910.2122

kvincent@windermere.com katherinevincentre.com

Zach Vincent

Windermere Yarrow Bay 425.922.5024

zvincent@windermere.com

katherinevincentre.com

Suncadia Social Grand Opening | June 19–21

This Summer Solstice, Suncadia Social comes to life. Don't miss out on the grand opening of a new gathering place designed for connection, discovery, and celebration at SuncadiaResort. Enjoy a weekend filled with unique experiences, food, shopping, and shared moments in a space inspired by the rhythms of the mountains and the spirit of community.

Time to Register for Swim Lessons at Peter Kirk Pool

It's that time of year again! Registration is now open for group swim lesson levels for Parent/Child, Preschool, Youth, Teens, and Adults. We have Private Swim Lessons available for those 5 years and older. To register call 425-587-3336 or visit www.kirklandparks.net. For more information visit www.kirklandwa.gov

Kirkland Wednesday Market

Sample local and artisanal goods and specialties from fresh produce, to handmade arts and crafts, and delectable baked goods. Beginning June 3rd and running through September 30th from 3:00pm-7:00pm. The market will be back at Marina Park, 25 Lakeshore Plaza.

THE BEAUTY THAT IS COLLABORATION

When Leadership Meets Movement

There is something powerful that happens when women come together with purpose. They create spaces where people feel seen and supported. They build communities that lift others up and spark real change. That kind of power was on full display when Youth for Freedom and The Backstage Foundation joined forces for a collaboration that blended leadership and dance in a way that deeply impacted young lives.

This partnership was guided by two women with a shared vision. Aubree Taylor and Kari Hovde brought their strengths together to create something meaningful. Their leadership shaped every part of the experience. They did not just build a program. They created an environment rooted in trust, respect, and a deep belief in young people.

For more than twenty years, Youth for Freedom has helped teens build confidence and leadership through real experiences. The Backstage Foundation uses dance to help young people express themselves, connect with others, and find a sense of belonging. Together, these women led organizations already change lives. Through this collaboration, their impact reached even further.

The partnership came to life at the Youth for Freedom summer camp, where around seventy teens from different backgrounds gathered for several days of leadership training. When the Backstage Foundation team arrived, they brought more than choreography. They brought energy, creativity, and a new way for students to understand themselves and each other.

Students learned the dance step by step, moving together as one group. Along the way, they learned far more than a routine. They learned how to trust each other, when to follow, when to step forward as leaders, and how to support those around them. What could have felt overwhelming became a shared experience built on encouragement and connection.

The impact continued even after the music stopped. Students took time to reflect on what they had experienced. They spoke about teamwork, leadership, and the courage it takes to be yourself. They began to understand that leadership is not about being perfect. It is about showing up, trying again, and growing through every challenge.

At the heart of it all was the connection between two women who believed in the same mission. Aubree Taylor and Kari Hovde showed what is possible when women lead together. They listened to each other, supported each other, and trusted each other’s vision. Together with their organizations, they share the belief that young people thrive when they feel seen, supported, and challenged. They understand that leadership is not a single moment but a journey. By working together, they created a space where students felt safe to grow and strong enough to lead. Students experienced what it feels like to be part of something bigger than themselves, and that kind of impact only happens when leaders come together with true intention and heart.

This is only the beginning. Youth for Freedom and the Backstage Foundation plan to continue their partnership at future camps and events, including an upcoming experience in Seattle this August. With Aubree Taylor and Kari Hovde leading the way, the possibilities continue to grow.

When women come together with purpose, they do more than lead. They inspire. They build. They change lives. Through this collaboration, they have already done exactly that.

CUSTOM HOMES • RENOVATIONS

Ask Amber

HOSPITALITY AND KITCHEN INSIGHTS FOR EVERYDAY GATHERINGS

AMBER DAWN SCHULTHEIS is a hospitality and culinary writer, recipe developer, and regular contributor to City Lifestyle. As the voice behind The Host Notes, she shares joyful recipes and thoughtful guidance to help readers create meaningful connection around the table. For our May Ladies Issue, we decided to “Ask Amber “ some questions about how she cultivates meaningful culinary experiences in her own home.

Amber Dawn Schultheis

WHAT INSPIRES YOU TO COOK AND HOST?

I’ve noticed we hesitate to bring people into our imperfect homes, especially during challenging seasons. It’s meaningful to be able to host and share delicious food with friends and family in times of celebration, grief, and everything in between. I think we all need a bit more hospitality and authenticity right now. Also, cooking and baking for the people in my life has always been a passion.

WHAT LESSONS FROM CAFÉ AND RESTAURANT KITCHENS STILL SHOW UP AT YOUR FAMILY TABLE?

So many things! We light a candle at dinner just about every night, even if we’re having take out and half of the dining table is cluttered with homework and junk mail. It’s a simple way to create a feeling of ease and slow things down a bit. We also wait to clear plates until everyone has finished eating. This helps people to not feel hurried or awkward if they’re the last person enjoying dinner or uncomfortable if they gobbled their plate up faster than the rest of the table.

HOW DO YOU UTILIZE LOCAL INGREDIENTS THAT ARE IN-SEASON?

My favorite way to cook is by strolling the farmer’s market and finding colorful fruits and veggies to inspire the week’s menu. We’re fortunate to live in a place with so many amazing local farms and producers. I also live in the same world as you do and buy some things from Costco and Trader Joe’s (especially in the winter months) because it’s impossible to be perfect. It’s a balance, and I prefer to source locally where I can.

WHAT’S THE BEST THING YOU CAN DO AHEAD OF TIME WHEN HOSTING?

Know the needs of your guests and plan your menu and space set up accordingly. As far as food prep, baked goods, many desserts, even little jars of granola for parting gifts can be made a day or more in advance. Salad dressings, sauces or even batch-cocktails can be prepped ahead as well to simplify the day of your get-together.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE GO-TO COMFORT MEAL?

It’s tough to beat a good risotto. It’s rich, comforting, and surprisingly simple to make, though it takes a bit of time. Served with a side of in-season vegetables that have been roasted to the point of caramelization and a filet of local salmon? Count me in.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE PANTRY STAPLES YOU ALWAYS HAVE ON HAND?

My pantry is always packed with an assortment of rice, pasta, beans, nuts, and flours so I can get creative at a moment’s notice. I have a growing collection of olive oils and vinegars, I could talk about pantry staples for days!

CONTINUED >

“I use the same simple white tablecloth year-round, letting seasonal produce and flowers do the festive work. I love strolling the farmers markets to find just the perfect flowers.”

“We light a candle at dinner just about every night, even if we’re having take out and half of the dining table is cluttered with homework and junk mail. It’s a simple way to create a feeling of ease and slow things down a bit.”

WHAT ARE YOUR TIPS FOR SETTING A BEAUTIFUL TABLE WITHOUT NEEDING ENDLESS BINS OF HOLIDAY-SPECIFIC DECOR?

Having a small, neutral collection of dinnerware and linens really pays off. I use the same simple white tablecloth year-round, letting seasonal produce and flowers do the festive work. An old ribbon tied around a vintage brass candlestick adds just enough charm. I don’t like to store more than I need, so keeping things lean matters to me— and I’ve found that simple, quirky details bring the most whimsy. Lately, rustic brown packing or butcher paper has become a favorite table runner, adding texture and dimension. You can doodle on it for playfulness or leave it beautifully plain.

WHAT’S A HOSTING HACK YOU WISH EVERYONE KNEW ABOUT?

If you love to cook and host, it’s easy to get carried away and think you need to make everything from scratch. I’ve had to re-learn this lesson many times! Make one thing you enjoy making and let everything else be simple. Also, when guests offer to bring something, let them.

CHERRY ALMOND CREAM SCONES

The perfect pastry for your next brunch gathering

This take on the classic scone breakfast pastry is rich and tender, full of cherry-almond flavor—without a nut in sight. Made with heavy cream instead of butter, these scones have a tender, soft crumb and lightly crisp edges. They come together in 45 minutes and are delightful plain or finished with Old Fashioned Glaze Icing for a touch of decadence.

Amber Dawn Schultheis is a Snohomish-based hospitality and culinary creator and the founder of The Host Notes. From casual celebrations to Tuesday night dinner, she helps you gather with intention, joy, and ease. Find more seasonal recipes and hospitality inspiration at  thehostnotes.com and follow @thehostnotes on social media.

ARTICLE BY AMBER DAWN SCHULTHEIS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAWNING MEMORIES

BAKERY-STYLE CHERRY ALMOND CREAM SCONES

Makes 8 large scones

Ingredients:

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour

• 1/3 cup (67g) granulated sugar

• 1 tablespoon (12g) baking powder

• ½ teaspoon (3g) kosher salt

• 1 ½ cups (360g) heavy cream, cold (plus a bit more for coating the scones)

• ½ teaspoon almond extract

• 1 cup (140g) ripe cherries (fresh, pitted and halved, or frozen—do not thaw)

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

3. Use the back of a spoon to create a well in the center. Pour in the cold heavy cream and almond extract.

4. Using a fork or dough whisk, gently mix until a shaggy dough begins to form. When the dough is mostly combined but still slightly crumbly, add the cherries and continue mixing gently until the dough comes together.If dry pockets remain, add 1–2 tablespoons (15–30g) additional cream as needed.

5. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently bring it together and shape into a 6–7 inch round disc, about 1½ inches thick.

6. Using a sharp knife or bench scraper, cut the disc into 8 equal wedges.

7. Transfer the scones to the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2–3 inches apart.

8. Using a pastry brush, apply a thin layer of cream to the top of each scone.

9. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the tops are lightly golden and the bottoms are set.

10. Allow to cool slightly before glazing or serving.

The Host Notes:

• Keep ingredients cold for the most tender texture

• Handle the dough lightly to avoid dense scones

• Frozen cherries work beautifully here—just use them straight from the freezer to prevent excess moisture

• Serve with a pot of your favorite tea or a French press of a good, locally roasted coffee and enjoy with people you love!

Old Fashioned Glaze Icing Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar

• 2 tablespoons (30g) milk or cream (start with 1½ tablespoons / 22g)

• 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter, melted

• 1 tablespoon (15g) cherry juice (optional, for color and flavor)

• ½ teaspoon almond extract

Directions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk the powdered sugar with 1½ tablespoons (22g) of milk or cream until smooth.

2. Add the melted butter, cherry juice (if using), and almond extract. Stir until fully combined.

3. Adjust consistency as needed: Add more milk for a thinner glaze OR add more powdered sugar for a thicker glaze.

4. Once the scones have cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top or dip each scone for a more generous coating.

APRIL SHOWERS BRING MAY FLOWERS

Decorate Your Space With a DIY Floral Design

Spring: the days grow longer, weather turns warmer, and the earth’s greenery starts to make its reappearance. During this time, flowers shoot up from the ground in a ballet of colors and movement. Walking outside becomes a cherished moment to breathe the fresh air and immerse yourself in lush surroundings. Being inside your home turns dreary and dull, everything that thrives is now outside, but this can easily be remedied. Why not bring some life inside? Make a spring floral bouquet to lighten up your space. Flowers add color and character to any room that needs a little lift, and our step-by-step guide will inspire you to create something grand.

Supplies:

• Flowers of your choice

• Scissors

• Twine or floral tape

• Ribbon (optional)

• Decorative paper (optional)

• Bouquet sleeve (optional)

Directions:

Step 1: When creating a beautiful floral arrangement, the first thing to do is decide on a color scheme and prepare the flowers.  Have fun deciding what colors you want to play with. Perhaps go pastel for spring or match the hues to other decor items in your house. Once you have picked your flowers, you need to do a little prep work. First, remove extra leaves and damaged petals from the stems. Then make a fresh diagonal cut to the bottom of all the flowers. This allows each bloom to soak up as much water as they need.

Step 2: Now it’s arranging time — think focal and filler. The best way to start the arranging process is by choosing your most interesting or favorite flowers — this will be your focal point. Hold the focal flower(s) upright and add your supporting blooms around it. Make sure to turn the bouquet as you build so that the design is as desired. Once this is complete, add your filler flowers to finalize the look. Filler options include baby’s breath, ivy, fern, eucalyptus and more.

Step 3: Let’s get ready to tie. Once you’ve arranged your bouquet, tie all the stems together using twine or floral tape. If using twine, we recommend securing it in a small bow in case you would like to rearrange at any given time. Floral tape is easy to move on and off for this purpose as well.

Step 4: Add the finishing touches. At this point, you are almost done with your bouquet and all that’s left is embellishments. There are so many ways to further adorn your creation: one way we love is to wrap it in fun decorative paper or put it in a special sleeve made just for flowers. If this idea isn’t for you, we recommend going to Pinterest for inspiration. Just remember, whatever way you choose to decorate your bouquet, you will end with a personalized piece made with love and care.

ARTICLE BY KALI KASORZYK

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

BECKY HILLYARD

From Side Hustle to Style Empire

The power of taste, trust, and the courage to “just start.”

She didn’t have a business plan, a media budget, or even a name anyone could pronounce. What Becky Hillyard had was taste, a young family, and the instinct to just start. Today, her lifestyle brand Cella Jane commands an audience the size of Vogue’s, she’s nine collections strong with Splendid, and she’s built it all while raising three kids — refusing to sacrifice one for the other. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Becky shares what it really takes to build a brand, a career, and a life you love. Read the highlights below, then scan the QR code for the full conversation.

Q: WHEN DID YOU KNOW CELLA JANE WAS MORE THAN A HOBBY?

A: Two moments. Women started emailing me saying they bought something I recommended and felt amazing — asking me to help them find a dress for a wedding. That felt incredible. Then I looked at my affiliate numbers for one month and realized I could cover our mortgage. I thought, I can actually do this. I never set out to build a business. I started it because I genuinely loved it.

Q: WHAT WAS THE BIGGEST RISK YOU EVER TOOK WITH THE BRAND?

A: Designing my own collection. It’s easy to point at items on a website and say I love these. But to create something from scratch, put your name on it, and wait to see if people connect with it — that’s terrifying. I had an incredible partner in Splendid, and women loved the pieces. It was the biggest risk and the biggest accomplishment.

Q: HOW HAS INFLUENCER MARKETING CHANGED SINCE YOU STARTED?

A: When I started, brands didn’t know whether to take it seriously. Now it’s a legitimate line item in their marketing budgets — sometimes bigger than TV. Because what we’ve built is trust. People trust a real recommendation from someone they follow far more than a commercial. There’s no question about it now.

Q: YOU’RE A MOM OF THREE RUNNING A FULL BRAND. WHAT DOES YOUR DAY ACTUALLY LOOK LIKE?

A: I try to get up at five and not hit snooze — that first hour before the house wakes up is the most productive, most peaceful hour of my day. Then it’s all hands on deck with the kids and school drop-off. After that I work — planning content, connecting with my team, editing. After pickup, the day shifts completely and it’s all about them. I’ve learned to protect both halves fiercely, because both matter.

Q: WHAT WOULD YOU TELL SOMEONE WHO WANTS TO BUILD SOMETHING OF THEIR OWN BUT KEEPS WAITING?

A: Don’t wait. Don’t wait for the perfect camera, the right strategy, or enough followers. We find every excuse to stay comfortable. Just start, be consistent, and be authentically yourself. The right people will find you — and they’ll stay.

This conversation is just the beginning. Becky goes deeper on the risks that almost stopped her, the design process behind her latest Splendid collection, and what she’d tell her 2012 self today. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on the Share the Lifestyle Podcast.

“Trust is the only metric that actually compounds.”

— Becky Hillyard

MAY 2026

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

MAY 2ND

Junk

in

the Trunk

Juanita Beach Park, 9703 NE Juanita Dr. Kirkland | 10:00 AM

Join us for our free annual treasure hunters heaven on Saturday, May 2nd from 10am to 2pm. This Junk in the Trunk Community garage sale will be in Juanita Beach Park lot featuring up to 50 vendors, food trucks, and more! Come join us.

MAY 3RD

Kirkland Arts Center2026 Annual Auction & Garden Party

Woodmark Hotel - 1200 Carillon Point, Kirkland WA | 3:00 PM

Kirkland Arts Center proudly invites you to AVANT GARDEN, an auction and garden party fundraiser that celebrates creativity, community, and the transformative power of the arts. With your support, we can reach our goal of raising $200,000 to sustain vital programs, ensuring that art remains a vibrant part of our community. Join us for an unforgettable evening!

MAY 7TH

State of the City & Community

Appreciation Night

Kirkland Perfomance Center | 5:00 PM

Enjoy the State of the City address, followed by musical performances (surprises and smiles guaranteed!) and a heartfelt volunteer appreciation ceremony honoring those who make Kirkland shine. 5:00 food and social hour at Peter Kirk CC. 6:00 Dessert in the lobby of Kirkland Performance Ctr. 6:30 Show begins. For information and Registration go to www.kirklandwa.gov.

CONTINUED

MAY 8TH

Mother's Day Floral Vase Painting

Descendant Cellars, Woodinville, WA 6:00 PM

Celebrate Mother’s Day with a joyful Paint & Sip experience. Create a beautiful floral painting with step-by-step guidance—no experience needed. All supplies are included, and wine is available for purchase. Perfect for mothers and sons or daughters, as well as friends looking to enjoy a relaxed, creative, and memorable experience together. To register visit www. eventbrite.com, cost is $55.20.

MAY 9TH-10TH

Mother’s Day Handcrafted Ceramics Sale at Kirkland Arts Center

Kirkland Arts Center - 620 Market Street | 10:00 AM

Celebrate Mother’s Day at the Kirkland Arts Center’s annual Handcrafted Ceramics Sale. This popular event features a curated selection of functional and sculptural ceramic works created by the Center’s talented teachers and students. This event offers a unique opportunity to engage directly with local artists and support emerging talent.

MAY 25TH

7 Hills of Kirkland

Charity Bicycle Ride

Marina Park, Kirkland | 7:30 AM

Come join us for one of three routes, 20-miles, 38-miles and 100-Kilometers. This is the annual fundraising ride for the Kirkland Kiwanis Foundation and Hopelink charities. Proceeds go to support scholarships and book purchases for Lake Washington School District students, Community meals and services for the less fortunate Eastside residents. Go to www.k03048.site.kiwanis.org for registration and information.