Peoria, AZ March 2026

Spring Refresh

Home has a way of changing as we do!

March arrives with a sense of renewal here in Arizona. The desert softens, the days grow brighter, and life naturally spills outdoors again. It’s a season that encourages us to slow down, take notice, and appreciate the spaces that support our everyday lives. Whether it’s opening the windows for the first time in months or enjoying a quiet evening outside, spring reminds us how deeply connected we are to the places we call home.

This time of year also brings Spring Training, a tradition that feels uniquely woven into our community. There’s something special about watching families and neighbors gather at the ballparks, generations sharing an afternoon under the sun. It’s a reminder that home isn’t just our houses, it’s the shared experiences that bring us together.

In this season of life, home often becomes the heart of everything. It’s where memories live, and new ones are created. It’s the comfort of familiar rooms, the stories told around the table, and the joy of welcoming a grandbaby into a space filled with love and history. Home is where the past and present meet, and where the future begins to take shape in the smallest, most meaningful moments.

Our March Home Issue celebrates that evolution. Inside, you’ll find inspiration that honors both beauty and function, tradition and thoughtful updates. Because a home should reflect not only where you’ve been, but also the life you’re continuing to build.

We are so grateful to have you as part of our community. Your stories, your support, and your connection to this place are what make it truly special. As spring unfolds, we hope this issue encourages you to fully enjoy your home, embrace the season, cherish the moments, and find comfort in the place that holds it all.

KIMBERLY BAILEY, PUBLISHER

March 2026

PUBLISHER

Kimberly Bailey | kimberly.bailey@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Kylie Strawn-Badger | kylie.strawn@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Nichole Eckman | nichole.eckman@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Jessica Witzke | jessica.witzke@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Gretchen Pahia, Kylie Strawn-Badger

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Chaz Romero Photography, Janie Jones

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Zach Miller

LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

Proverbs 3:5-6

Living Lake Pleasant

A

Organizing With Heart

Feel

Simple

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

business monthly

Caldwell County BBQ Brings Central Texas Barbecue to Downtown Peoria

Caldwell County BBQ expands into Peoria with a ground-up, 4,800-square-foot restaurant featuring indoor and patio dining, bars, and private event space. Known for authentic Central Texas barbecue, the brand brings slow-smoked meats, scratch-made sides, and a lively, family-friendly atmosphere to Peoria’s growing downtown dining scene for residents and visitors alike.

Scan to read more

Loving Hut Builds a Business Around Flavor, Consistency, and Impact

Loving Hut has built a loyal Arizona following by pairing comfort-forward vegan cuisine with consistent operations and clear values. Led locally by Linh La, the brand delivers crave-worthy, handcrafted meals that appeal beyond niche audiences while creating measurable environmental impact through everyday dining choices.

Potbelly Brings Classic Toasted Sandwiches and Neighborhood Charm to Peoria

Potbelly is officially open in Peoria, serving its signature toasted sandwiches, classic sides, and the warm, welcoming atmosphere the brand is known for. Located at f the new spot is an easy addition to lunch plans and a great way to support a new local favorite.

LIVING LAKE PLEASANT

A closer look at Lake Pleasant living, where desert beauty, open space, and intentional homes create a lifestyle shaped by calm, connection, and everyday ease.

ARTICLE BY KYLIE STRAWN-BADGER PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHAZ ROMERO PHOTOGRAPHY

There’s a certain rhythm to life near Lake Pleasant that’s difficult to define until you’ve experienced it firsthand. It’s shaped by wide desert horizons, the steady presence of water, and a sense of space that feels increasingly rare. Tucked into the northwest Valley, the Lake Pleasant area has quietly become one of Arizona’s most compelling lifestyle communities, one that attracts people who value intention, balance, and a deeper connection to where they live.

Unlike traditional lake towns that feel busy or tightly clustered, this area offers a feeling of openness. Homes are thoughtfully placed, landscapes are respected, and the lake feels woven into everyday life rather than reserved for special occasions. Mornings often begin with soft light reflecting across the water, while evenings settle into calm desert sunsets that slow everything down. As Benjamin J. Katz, Owner and Broker at Lake Pleasant Real Estate, puts it, “Lake Pleasant isn’t just a destination, it’s a way of living that blends outdoor freedom with everyday comfort.”

What draws people here isn’t simply the scenery, though that certainly plays a role. It’s the lifestyle itself. Residents tend to prioritize homes that feel livable rather than showy spaces designed to support how they actually spend their days. Large windows, thoughtful floor plans, and seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor areas are common. “People come here because they want their home to support their life, not the other way around,” Katz shares. “Comfort, functionality, and connection to the environment matter more than trends.”

There’s an ease to the community that feels organic. Neighbors know each other, but privacy is respected. Many residents work flexible schedules or operate businesses that allow them to enjoy the lake and surrounding trails during quieter weekday hours. Paddleboarding before breakfast, afternoon walks with uninterrupted views, and casual gatherings as the sun dips below the mountains are simply part of the rhythm here. “There’s a sense of calm people don’t always realize they’re missing,” Katz notes. “Once they experience it, it’s hard to imagine living anywhere else.”

Homes in the Lake Pleasant area often reflect their surroundings, favoring natural materials, desert-friendly palettes, and architectural lines that feel grounded rather than ornate. Instead of chasing what’s popular in the moment, homeowners tend to focus on timeless design choices that will age well and require less maintenance in Arizona’s climate. “When the fundamentals are strong, a home always feels right,” Katz says. “That’s especially true here, where the landscape should lead the design, not compete with it.”

One of the most important considerations for living well near the lake is understanding the land itself. How a home sits on its lot can influence everything from daily comfort to long-term enjoyment. Orientation affects natural light, views, privacy, and even how outdoor spaces are used throughout the year. “Understanding the land is just as important as understanding the house,” Katz explains. “When a home is designed with its surroundings in mind, it naturally feels more livable.”

“LAKE PLEASANT ISN’T JUST A DESTINATION, IT’S A WAY OF LIVING THAT BLENDS OUTDOOR

FREEDOM WITH EVERYDAY COMFORT.”

Living near Lake Pleasant also invites a different approach to daily routines. Outdoor living isn’t an accessory here; it’s essential. Covered patios, shaded courtyards, and flexible outdoor spaces extend the usable footprint of a home and encourage time spent outside year-round. Storage for boats, paddleboards, and recreational gear becomes a practical consideration, while flexible interiors allow spaces to evolve as needs change. “The best homes here are the ones that feel effortless,” Katz says. “They’re designed to support life, not complicate it.”

Another defining feature of the area is its balance. While Lake Pleasant feels removed from the pace of central Phoenix, it still offers convenient access to nearby amenities, dining, and services. That balance of seclusion without isolation is one of the reasons people choose to settle here long term. It appeals to those who want their home to feel like a retreat, without giving up connection to the broader Valley. “It’s not about being far from everything,” Katz shares. “It’s about being close to what matters.”

For many homeowners, choosing the Lake Pleasant area represents a shift in priorities. It’s less about speed and more about the sustainability of lifestyle, of design, of community. Homes are chosen with longevity in mind, and decisions are often guided by how a space will feel five, ten, or even twenty years down the road. “When people understand the area and their options, they make better decisions,” Katz explains. “That clarity leads to happier homeowners.”

Navigating real estate in a lake-centered desert community requires local insight that goes beyond basic market knowledge. From zoning considerations to land use and lifestyle nuances, there’s a depth to the area that’s best understood by those who live and work within it. Lake Pleasant Real Estate approaches this role as a resource rather than a sales pitch, offering guidance rooted in experience and genuine appreciation for the community. “Our focus is always clarity,” Katz says. “We want people to feel informed and confident, whether they’re actively moving or simply exploring what’s possible.”

At its core, life near Lake Pleasant is about intention. It’s about choosing space, calm, and connection in a way that feels natural rather than forced. For those drawn to open landscapes, water views, and a more thoughtful pace of life, the area offers something truly special: an environment where everyday moments feel elevated simply because of where they unfold.

To stay connected and learn more about the Lake Pleasant lifestyle, you can follow along on Instagram at @bjkatz and @lakepleasantrealestate. For thoughtful guidance rooted in local knowledge and community understanding, Lake Pleasant Real Estate serves as a trusted resource for those seeking a home that truly fits how they want to live.

ARTICLE BY GRETCHEN PAHIA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHAZ ROMERO PHOTOGRAPHY

ORGANIZING WITH HEART

BEE ORGANIZED PEORIA BLENDS EMPATHY AND EXPERTISE TO SUPPORT WEST VALLEY FAMILIES THROUGH CHANGE, CREATING PEACEFUL HOMES THAT REFLECT REAL LIFE, NOT PERFECTION.

On any given day in the West Valley, life moves fast. Kids are shuttled to practices and appointments, calendars overlap, and households quietly absorb the daily rhythm of busy, full lives.

Doors open and close, backpacks land on counters, laundry piles grow, and time seems to slip by unnoticed. For Kim Vanderwall and her sister, Sara Munoz, those seemingly ordinary moments are anything but insignificant. They are the very places where life is lived and where their story begins.

“We’ve learned that homes aren’t just spaces,” Kim says. “They’re reflections of what people are going through.”

Kim and Sara are the owners of Bee Organized Peoria, a family-owned professional organizing and life-transition business rooted in compassion, confidentiality, and zero judgment. But before they became business partners, they were sisters following different professional paths, both quietly shaped by a shared instinct to help others navigate change, transition, and overwhelm.

Kim spent years working in corporate education, developing programs for adult learners and overseeing operations. She

enjoyed watching growth unfold and systems come together, but she knew something was missing. “I wanted to tackle something that really touched people’s lives,” she says. She felt drawn toward work that was more personal, more human, something that could make a visible difference during meaningful moments.

That background brought structure, leadership, and intention to Bee Organized. Outside of work, Kim’s life centers on her husband, Chris, and their three grown children. She’s happiest outdoors, whether hiking, skiing, walking her dogs, or simply spending time with the people she loves. That balance between order and connection carries into the way she approaches her work with clients.

Sara’s professional journey unfolded in a different, but complementary, direction. She spent much of her career as a nurse, working in operating rooms and senior care facilities, environments that demanded precision, empathy, and the ability to stay calm during emotionally charged situations. “I’ve always been a Type A personality,” Sara says. “Organizing, decluttering, and design just come naturally to me.”

“WE DON’T JUST ORGANIZE HOMES, WE BRING CALM TO CHAOS AND CONFIDENCE TO CHANGE.”

At home, Sara manages a busy blended household with three children of her own. “I truly understand how overwhelming life can be,” she says. “Systems only work if they work in real homes, with real people.” Outside of Bee Organized, she’s a dedicated baseball mom who enjoys traveling, visiting wineries, and spending time outdoors. That lived experience shapes her practical, realistic approach to organizing.

Bee Organized was born out of a deeply personal experience helping their mother downsize and move to Arizona. What initially felt like a practical task quickly became something much more emotional. “That whole process was such a vulnerable time,” Kim recalls. “It wasn’t just about putting boxes away. It was about letting go of memories and stepping into a new chapter of life.”

That experience shifted everything for them. “These organizing jobs aren’t just about our clients’ stuff,” Kim explains. “They’re really about change, emotions, and creating a home that supports where someone is in their life.”

While Bee Organized originated as a franchise concept Kim had admired in another state, the need within the West Valley was immediate and undeniable. Families were juggling demanding schedules, while aging adults faced downsizing, relocation, loss, and life transitions with little support. “There was a real gap here,” Sara says. “And the truth is, people needed help, not judgment.”

That belief drives everything they do. Their team of professional organizers, affectionately known as “Bees,” are trained not just in systems and logistics, but in sensitivity and awareness. “We understand that these moments are emotional,” Kim says. “That’s why compassion and confidentiality are non-negotiable for us.”

Decluttering, they explain, goes far beyond aesthetics. Research has shown that clutter contributes to stress, anxiety, sleep disruption, and even safety concerns. “Clutter sharpens distraction and creates decision fatigue,” Sara explains. “And for seniors, it can quickly become a safety hazard.” The hardest part, however, is rarely the physical work. “Every item holds a memory, guilt, or meaning,” Kim adds. “That’s where professionals come in, offering clarity without judgment and helping create homes filled with peace instead of pressure.”

When clients ask where to begin, Kim and Sara always keep the advice simple and realistic: own less, start with one space at a time, let go of duplicates, give everything a proper home, and build the habit of putting things away immediately. “Small actions really do add up,” Sara says.

Running a business together hasn’t been without its challenges. “Owning a business with your sister is incredibly

rewarding, and incredibly hard,” Sara admits. “You need boundaries, communication, and trust. Love alone isn’t enough.” What they’ve learned, however, is that respect and honesty build something sustainable.

Today, Bee Organized offers far more than organizing alone. Their services include residential and business projects, moving transitions such as packing and unpacking, and concierge support ranging from estate sales and handyman coordination to Airbnb preparation, laundry assistance, and light design. They also work closely with local real estate agents and moving companies to better serve the community.

“We love the West Valley,” Sara says. “Our heart is truly in serving our neighbors.”

At its core, Bee Organized exists to make life feel more manageable during moments of change. “We don’t just organize homes,” Kim says. “We bring calm to chaos, and confidence to transition.”

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

GATHER AT THE TABLE

Setting time aside to gather as a family around the dinner table is a great way to connect without the distractions from the things that pull us away from the ones we love. Both the Maple Harvest Salad and Beignets can be prepared in advance for the busy families on the go. Enjoy!

maple harvest salad

INGREDIENTS Serves 1

• 1 portion Honey Roasted Cauliflower (3 oz.)

• 2 oz. Pomegranate seeds

• 3 oz. chopped Kale

• 2 oz. thinly sliced Brussel Sprouts

• 5 oz. Maple Molasses Dressing

DIRECTIONS

Toss all the ingredients, aside from the pomegranate seeds, into a large mixing bowl. Pour in the maple molasses dressing and lightly toss everything together, until everything has been coated in the dressing. Place on the middle of a plate, in a mound, sprinkle the pomegranate seeds over the salad.

INGREDIENTS

Honey Roasted Cauliflower (Yields 5 - 6 portions)

• 1 lb. of Cauliflower Florets

• 2 oz. Salt

• .5 oz. Black Pepper

• 8 oz. Honey

• 8 oz. Oil

DIRECTIONS

Chop cauliflower into small floret pieces. Combine everything together and toss until the cauliflower is evenly coated, roast in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 mins.

INGREDIENTS

Maple Molasses Dressing (Yields 1 quart, 8 servings)

• 4.5 oz. Apple Cider Vinegar

• 3 oz. Maple Syrup

• 3 oz. Molasses

• 0.5 oz. Mustard

• 11.5 oz. Soy Milk

• 10.5 oz. Olive Oil

chicken parmesan

INGREDIENTS

• Chicken Breast

• Spaghetti

• Marinara Sauce

• Fresh Mozzarella slices

• Panko Breading

DIRECTIONS

Bread the chicken breast in the panko breading, then fry at 350 degrees F, until the internal temperature reaches about 170 Degrees F. In the meantime, slowly reheat the cooked spaghetti in the marinara sauce, once hot, set aside. After the chicken breast reaches the 170 degrees internal temp, spread the mozzarella onto the chicken breast and melt in the oven for about 3-5 mins. Twist the spaghetti into a nest, and place onto the plate. and place the chicken breast over the top of the pasta.

INGREDIENTS

Marinara Sauce (yields 8 - 10 servings)

• 1 #10 Can Crushed Tomatoes

• 1 lb. Onions, Diced

• 1/2 lb. Carrots, Diced

• 1/2 lb. Celery, Diced

• 1 oz. Garlic Cloves

• 1/2 oz. Dried Basil

• 2 Bay Leafs

• 500 ml Red Wine

• 4 oz. Water

• 2 oz. Sugar

• 4 oz. Oil

• 1/2 oz. Dried Oregano

• 2 grams Crushed Red Pepper

• 1/2 lb. Parm Cheese

• 1/2 oz. Black Pepper

• 8 oz. Tomato Paste

DIRECTIONS

In a large stock pot, preheat the oil until it reaches the smoking point. Add the diced vegetables and begin to sweat on high heat, once translucent, add the sugar and allow vegetables to brown and caramelize. Once Caramelized, add tomato paste and allow to brown. Deglaze with the red wine and reduce by half. Add canned tomatoes, spices and herbs, and the water. Allow to simmer over medium heat for about 1-2 hours. Transfer to a blender and blend on high speed until fully mixed, manually whisk in the parm cheese.

beignets

INGREDIENTS

• 16 oz. Butter

• 32 oz. Water

• 32 oz. Flour

• 16 Eggs

• pinch Salt

• pinch Sugar

DIRECTIONS

Bring the butter and water to a boil, incorporate the flour, salt, and sugar and fold over until the batter forms into a cohesive ball, with no patches of dry flour. Allow to cool for about 10 mins before throwing the batter into a stand mixer. With the paddle attachment slowly incorporate the eggs, one at a time, until the batter has absorbed all the eggs. Scoop into one ounce balls and fry in preheated oil at 325 degrees F, rotating the beignets for about 15 mins. Allow to cool and let the steam hollow out the inside of the beignets. Stuff with your choice of filling and sprinkle with powdered sugar and place on to a plate.

INGREDIENTS

Chocolate MousseYields 5 - 6 servings

• 1-8 oz. Vanilla Pudding Mix

• 8 oz. Heavy Cream

• 32 oz. Milk

• 12 oz. Dark Chocolate

• 1/2 oz. Vanilla Extract

• 8 oz. Cool Whip

• 16 oz. Dark Cocoa Powder

DIRECTIONS

1. Melt the dark chocolate into the heavy cream over a double boiler on the stovetop over medium high heat. Once mixed, allow 10 minutes to cool.

2. Meanwhile, mix all other ingredients together using a stand mixer until well combined. Slowly incorporate the melted dark chocolate/heavy cream mixture until well combined. Using a spatula, place chocolate mousse into a piping bag.

Making Home Feel Thoughtfully Styled

Simple decor trends and practical tips to create a warm, functional, and personal home you love.

Home decor trends right now are leaning into spaces that feel warm, comfortable, and truly lived in. Instead of homes that look perfectly styled but untouchable, the focus has shifted toward creating rooms that feel inviting, layered, and personal. The best part is that these trends aren’t about starting from scratch. Small, intentional changes can completely transform how a space feels.

Warmth is one of the biggest shifts happening in home decor. Cooler grays and bright whites are being replaced with softer, more inviting tones that feel grounded and timeless. Creamy neutrals, warm taupes, subtle browns, and muted desert-inspired hues bring an instant sense of comfort to a room. These colors work beautifully as a base for walls, larger furniture pieces, or rugs, giving you flexibility to layer in accent pieces over time. If committing to a new color feels like a big step, start by adding warmth through pillows, throws, or even framed artwork.

Texture is doing a lot of the heavy lifting in today’s interiors. Spaces feel richer and more complete when different materials are layered together. Think natural wood paired with ceramics, woven baskets mixed with smooth stone surfaces, or soft textiles balanced by metal accents. When styling shelves or tabletops, mixing textures keeps everything from feeling too polished or flat. The goal isn’t perfection, it’s balance. A space should feel styled but relaxed, like it came together naturally.

ARTICLE BY KYLIE STRAWN-BADGER

Functionality continues to be just as important as aesthetics. Decor that serves a purpose makes everyday life easier while still looking beautiful. Storage baskets, benches that double as seating, decorative trays that help corral clutter, and furniture that adapts to different needs all support a home that works well day to day. When choosing décor, it helps to ask how each piece fits into daily routines. If it adds comfort, organization, or flexibility, it’s likely a good investment.

Personal touches are also taking center stage. Homes are moving away from overly styled, catalog-perfect looks and embracing pieces that feel meaningful. Art, books, collected objects, and accents that reflect personal interests or experiences add character and warmth. Rather than filling every corner at once, allowing rooms to come together over time creates a more layered and authentic feel. The result is a home that tells a story and feels uniquely yours.

Scale and proportion are details that can quietly elevate a space. Oversized art can make a room feel intentional, while a properly sized rug helps anchor furniture and define areas within open layouts. A common mistake is choosing decor that’s too small, which can leave a room feeling unfinished. When in doubt, sizing up often creates a more polished and confident look, especially in larger living spaces.

Bringing elements of nature indoors remains one of the easiest ways to refresh a home. Greenery, dried stems, and organic materials soften spaces and add life without overwhelming the design. Even a single statement plant or a simple arrangement of branches can shift the entire feel of a room and create a sense of calm.

When it’s time to find pieces that bring these ideas to life, shopping local makes the experience even better. Peoria is home to thoughtfully curated decor destinations. Whether you’re adding one finishing touch or slowly refreshing an entire space, our local shops offer inspiration that makes creating a beautiful, livable home feel both approachable and personal.

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

MARCH 6TH-8TH

West Valley 26th Annual Home and Landscape Show

State Farm Stadium | 1 Cardinals Dr.

Explore home improvement, landscaping, decor, and outdoor living, plus a featured  Plant Pavilion showcasing houseplants, garden accessories, decor, and more, along with a curated Artisan Market featuring local, handcrafted goods. Enjoy workshops, gardening seminars, and hundreds of booths filled with ideas, experts, and inspiration — all included with admission.

MARCH 14TH

Second Saturdays

Downtown Peoria | 4:00 PM

The historic district comes alive with local art, live music, artisan vendors, hands-on activities, and community spirit. Come explore one of Arizona’s most creative monthly gatherings — and experience the best in local art, music, and artisan goods.

MARCH 14TH

KO-Karts For The Arts

Andretti Karting and Games | 6263 N 99th Ave | 3:00 PM

Join WHAM Art Association for an afternoon of Kart Racing, VR Attractions, Food and Fun and Support the Arts! Race, compete, and have fun while supporting creative programs for veterans, kids, teens, and adults.

MARCH 18TH

Elite Business Alliance West Valley

WeSERV Peoria | 9001 W Union Hills Dr #8, Peoria | 10:00 AM

EBA is dedicated to fostering business growth by promoting connection, collaboration and community. Join us at our next event by registering here: http://bit.ly/ebaattendamtg

MARCH 21ST-22ND

Luke Days 2026 Air Show

Luke Air Force Base | 14185 Falcon Street

Mark your calendars — the much-anticipated Luke Days Air Show is set to return in 2026, offering a rare opportunity to explore the impressive Luke Air Force Base up close.

MARCH 22ND & 29TH

Spring Serenade Concert Series

Paloma Community Park | 29799 N. Lake Pleasant Pkwy

Spring Serenade offers great music in a beautiful outdoor setting. Join your neighbors for a different musical genre each week. In addition to an exciting lineup of talented local pop, R&B, jazz, and country bands, local food trucks will be serving up delicious food and drink for purchase. Don’t forget your blankets and chairs!

The iconic superstar’s extraordinary life unfolds in this dazzling musical celebrating six decades of reinvention, resilience, and unforgettable hits.

Two people, different worlds, a chance encounter, and an unexpected connection.

Don’t miss your chance to see these regional Broadway premieres exclusively at Arizona Broadway Theatre!