Issuu

Time to Explore!

LI F E + C U LTU R E

VAN LIFE WITH SARAH N IBARGER WELLNESS

BOYCE TH O M PSO N ARB O RETU M: GET TIN G BACK TO N ATU RE

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

Explore!

April 2023 PUBLISHER

Kaylee Williams | kaylee.williams@citylifestyle.com EDITOR

Florence Daniels | florence.daniels@citylifestyle.com

In the Valley there is one thing for sure, it's a community of explorers. The community at large at every turn is inspiring and always seems to be planning their next adventure. So with that in mind, for our April issue, we wanted to share with you how some of us are getting out to explore locally, globally, and in our homes. Spring symbolizes new beginnings. Nature reveals its beauty through budding trees and flowers, and the fresh temperate air invites us to spend more time outdoors. As we prepare our garden and flowerbeds, new life awakens joy in the beauty of our world and the desire to explore it. And for those of us without a green thumb, the local farmer's markets are gearing up for a busy season of visitors to enjoy fresh produce from local farmers. There is a multitude of diverse spots around town to discover, whether it is a new restaurant with a great patio to enjoy with friends and family, a hiking trail to take in nature and the surrounding scenery, or a niche boutique hotel for a relaxing staycation- there is something for everyone. We hope that the articles featured this month give your own inspiration to explore all life has to offer. We are excited for you to find your own things to do, places to explore, and memories to share. Here is to a happy spring full of adventure, peace & sunshine. Blessed to be in the valley, K AY L E E W I L L I A M S , P U B L I S H E R @QUEENCREEKCIT Y LIFE S T Y LE

CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER

Kaeden Peterson

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard

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

Scan QR code to visit our Instagram CIT YLIFEST YLE.COM/QUEENCREEK |

Proverbs 3:5-6 Queen Creek City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Queen Creek area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Queen Creek City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered

L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

Elevated Design Premium Locations Exceptional Value

Madera Queen Creek, AZ Approx. 1,880 - 4,850 SQ.FT 3-6 Beds | 2-4.5 Baths 2-4 Bay garage Nature trails, parks, play areas and pool Priced from the high $400k’s

W TriPointeHomes.com/AZ-homes The prices of our homes, included features, plans, specifications, promotions/incentives, neighborhood build-out and available locations are subject to change without notice. Stated dimensions, square footage and acreage are approximate and should not be used as a representation of any home’s or homesite’s precise or actual size, location or orientation. There is no guarantee that any particular homesite or home will be available. No information or material herein is to be construed to be an offer or solicitation for sale. A Broker/Agent must register their client in person on client’s first visit at each community for a Broker/Agent to receive a commission or referral fee, if available. Not all features and options are available in all homes. Unless otherwise expressly stated, homes do not come with hardscape, landscape, or other decorator items. Any photographs or renderings used herein reflect artists’ conceptions and are for illustrative purposes only. Some amenities may not be constructed. Builder reserves the right to change the size, design, configuration, and location of amenities not yet constructed and does not warrant the suitability thereof for any use or for any person. Builder does not warrant the suitability of any trail for any use or for any person. All sales are conditioned upon buyer’s acceptance of the Final Subdivision Disclosure Report (Public Report) for the Community, which will be posted on the AZ Real Estate Department’s website when issued. Our name and the logos contained herein are registered trademarks of Tri Pointe Homes, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries. © 2023 Tri Pointe Homes Arizona, LLC. AZ Broker, Tri Pointe Homes Arizona Realty, LLC (AZ DRE# LC538443000). Arizona Contractor, Tri Pointe Homes Arizona Construction, LLC (ROC No. 172120). All rights reserved.

APRIL 2023

inside the issue The Explore Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

14 Among The Trees

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Outdoor Adventure WELLNES S

Culinary Creations FO O D + B EV E R AG E

Must See LI FE + C U LT U R E

Local’s Choice LI FE + C U LT U R E

Travel Journal T R AV EL

Driver’s Notebook AU TO + MA R I N E

Get Active S PO RTS + R EC R EAT I O N

Outdoor Living T R AV EL

Events

Party Planning EV ENT PLA NNI NG + SE RV IC E S

Boyce Thompson Arboretum explores nature, history, and more.

18 Southwest Gazpacho

Pita Jungle adds a new twist to a traditional recipe.

22 Life on the Road

Sarah Nibarger and family find adventure with a custom made van.

26 Travels to Tucson

Tucson is a harmonious mix of old meets new.

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Kaeden Peterson Sarah Nibarger's van with her children.

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APRIL 2023

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen. 1

RUSCH GLEDHILL GROUP

F. DANIELS

TOWN OF QUEEN CREEK

K. WILLIAMS

TOWN OF QUEEN CREEK

K. WILLIAMS

F.DANIELS

1: Attendees of the Love Bug Dance held by the Town of Queen Creek. 2: Photo taking at the Love Bug Dance. 3: Daria Gledhill & Chelsea Rusch of Rusch Gledhill Group at the Waste Management Phoenix Open. 4: Galentine's Event at Electric Complexions. 5: Adeena Wagner, owner of Electric Complexions and host of the Galentine's Event. 6: T-Rex display at the Jurassic Quest event at Bell Bank Park. 7: Display at Jurassic Quest event.

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @queencreekcitylifestyle

C I T Y SC E N E

APRIL 2023

business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Opening of The Spaghetti Shack Operating out of a ghost kitchen from inside the restaurant Bar Vinedo, The Spaghetti Shack formally opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on February 17th. They are a to-go pasta concept that will also do catering, fundraising, and pop-up events. thespaghettishack.com

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/QueenCreek

B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

WE BRING YOUR IDEAS TO LIFE

Underground Burger Underground Burger location in Queen Creek offers a fresh menu of burgers and milkshakes. Made with high-quality ingredients, this quality Angus beef is served on a gourmet brioche bun. Come in and order at their Rittenhouse location or order via the app. undergroundburgers.com

Augment Opens Their Doors! Augment is a unique wellness concept that uses various therapies like cold and hot hydrotherapy, infrared sauna, compression and red light therapy, as well as much more! You can become a member and begin improving your health, your mental state and athletic recovery. To learn more visit augmentwellness.com

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Boyce Thompson Arboretum explores nature, history, and more.

O UT D OOR A DV E N T U R E | W E LLNE S S

AMONG THE TREES ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY FLORENCE DANIELS

It is a sunny but temperate day when we walked the paths of Boyce Thompson Arboretum, and everyone and their dog is exploring the many pathways and gardens with a spring in their step. The trees tower above you with their leafy heads swaying gently. Nearby children run along in the dappled sunlight, posing for photos or pointing out a butterfly. This is the oldest and largest botanical institution in Arizona and in the Southwest. It all began with a mining engineer by the name of William Boyce Thompson, who had made his fortune in copper, and was fascinated with landscaping. In 1924 he began a Plant Institute which became the 'living museum' that is the arboretum today. In addition to a lake, a greenhouse, and a gift shop, there are many trails and exhibits that display a vast and impressive collection of plant species. In the children's garden, for example, you will find a colorful mosaic and a maze. In addition, there is a dedicated cactus garden and a rose garden that has antique varieties that date back to the 1800's. The Pollinator garden attracts

colorful butterflies, while hummingbirds chase each other around the flowering bushes. Something is always in bloom during each season, bringing new sights and scents. Bird lovers will spy the signature red feathers of a cardinal among other wildlife that visit the arboretum each year. The Arboretum mingles the beauty of nature with education and plenty of history too. At the herb garden, you will learn of the useful and medicinal benefits of the various plants. Or discover the history of the Clevenger House which belonged to a homesteading family in the early 20th century. Whether you wander the long and winding trails or stay within a single exhibit, you can easily spend a whole day here. If you prefer, guided tours are available as well as workshops on planting and even art classes. Even better, you can enjoy Tai Chi or Yoga within the garden grounds, combining the beauty and fresh air with an invigorating workout for both the body and mind. The Boyce Thompson Arboretum is a true gem to explore and experience nature. btarboretum.org

AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/Q UE E N C R E E K

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SOUTHWEST GA Z PACHO

PITA JUNGLE ADDS A NEW TWIST TO A TRADITIONAL RECIPE. ARTICLE BY FLORENCE DANIELS PHOTOGRAPHY BY PITA JUNGLE

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

SOU T H W E ST GA Z PACHO 4 Servings Pita Jungle gives us a Southwest spin on the Spanish classic of Gazpacho soup. Traditionally served chilled with a blend of diced tomatoes, spices and onions. This variation throws in additional flavors of lime, jalapeno, and is topped with an avocado for a distinctive Southwestern touch. With winter thawing, try a chilled gazpacho to refresh the palate for a light, healthy, and delicious lunch.

INGREDIENTS • 2 lbs. of ripe tomatoes • 1/2 cup of tomato juice • 1 cucumber, seeded and peeled • 1 green bell pepper, seeded and de-ribbed • 4 cloves of garlic • 1 small white onion • 1 cup of soaked corn chips in water • 1 Tbsp of rice wine vinegar • 1 Tbsp of lime juice • 1 tsp. of cumin • 1 tsp. of chili powder • Salt and black pepper to taste • 2 thinly sliced avocados • 1 jalapeno, seeded and thinly sliced • 3 green onions, thinly sliced • 4 Tbsp of cilantro chopped • Sour cream • Poached shrimp

DIRECTIONS 1. Place all the ingredients from the tomatoes to the salt and pepper into a food processor 2. Blend until you have a smooth consistency. 3. Taste the mixture and if the tomatoes are too sweet simply add a bit more rice wine vinegar and lime juice until adjusted for taste. 4. Refrigerate soup until ready to serve. 5. When ready top with a few slices of avocado, sliced jalapeno, green onions, and cilantro. You may also choose to garnish with a couple of poached shrimp and a dollop of sour cream as well.

Southwest Gazpacho AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/Q UE E N C R E E K

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Life on the Road

SARAH NIBARGER AND F A M I LY F I N D A D V E N T U R E W I T H A C U S TO M M A D E VA N .

ARTICLE BY FLORENCE DANIELS PHOTOGRAPHY BY KAEDEN PETERSON

M U ST SE E | L IFE + CU LTURE

Sarah Nibarger is a realtor with The Ethridge Team with eXp Realty who owns a van with custom features that is ideal for road trips. Originally from a small town in the San Juan Islands called Anacortes, she now calls Arizona home. She lives here with her husband and three children and their dog. Despite establishing roots, something called to Sarah and her family to hit the road. Initially, Sarah and her husband were finding themselves driving a lot for her son's baseball but they wanted something comfortable enough to indulge their desire to explore the great outdoors. Soon a dream became reality when they bought their van and sent it off to a company called VanCraft in Utah to have it fitted to their specifications. Inside is a comfy queen-sized bed with extra leg room, a bench seat with seatbelts in the back, a full kitchen including an induction burner, an ice chest that can be a fridge or turned down to be a freezer, a sink and plenty of butcher-block counter space. It even has a shower unit with hot water and a cassette toilet, and because it is a 4x4 so they can take it anywhere. They have traveled from Portland to Flagstaff, making memories all along the way. Nibarger calls it her 'VRBO on wheels'. Perhaps the ideal way to take to the road, being convenient, and comfortable with the added bonus of waking up to nature.

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2509 S Power Rd Ste #203 | Mesa, AZ AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/Q UE E N C R E E K

Editor's Picks

Explore our top picks for food, fun, and more in Queen Creek and beyond. ARTICLE BY FLORENCE DANIELS

01 SCHNEPF FARMS. A beautiful day at the farm starts here. schnepffarms. com/ / 02 DECADENT MACAROON. An array of this dainty french treat to choose from and a delicious coffee menu. decadentmacaroon.com/ / 03 QUEEN CREEK FAMILY MARKET. Fresh food, fresh air, and local, nothing could be better on a Saturday! queencreekfamilymarket.com/ / 04 FERINGHEE RESTAURANT. Fresh and innovative Indian food, this is a dining experience you won't soon forget for both the extraordinary food and the ambiance. feringhee.com/ / 05 DESERT HORIZON NURSERY. You can buy plants here for your garden but walking here already feels like you have entered a dream garden. deserthorizonnursery.com/ / 06 GILBERT RIPARIAN PRESERVE. Fun trails and a bird watcher's paradise. gilbertaz.gov Florence Daniels, Editor

LOCA L’S CH OICE | L IFE + CULTURE

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AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/Q UE E N C R E E K

San Xavier del Bac Mission

Travels to Tucson

TUCSON IS A HARMONIOUS MIX OF OLD MEETS NEW.

ARTICLE BY FLORENCE DANIELS

T R AV E L J OU R N A L | TR AVE L

Historic Tucson

TUCSON

Tucson isn't very far from the Valley and yet the differences are apparent. It has a unique feel about it, a distinct identity, and a story to tell. You can trace that story through the historic Tucson neighborhood. Or go back further to the San Xavier del Bac Mission which was built in 1797, a reminder of the Spanish missionaries that once roamed here. Sometimes, that story is better understood through the many flavors this foodie city has on offer. There is no shortage of bakeries, cafes, and restaurants with vibrant and alluring menus. Tucson can almost feel like a city of indulgence, yet there is more of the rustic and natural too. The Desert Museum is one of the best ways to get a full taste of the habitat and wildlife in the area. If some western culture is what you fancy try Old Tucson to experience gold panning, observe old-fashioned blacksmiths, or even watch a staged cowboy gunfight. Tucson is also filled with art galleries, hiking trails, shopping, and museums.

One museum, in particular, specializes in everything miniature: The Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures. Here you will find doll houses and miniature art of all kinds, some dating back hundreds of years. There is much to do and see, enough to fill up a whole day or a whole weekend.

WHERE TO STAY: White Stallion Ranch

WHERE TO DRINK: The Still Speakeasy

WHERE TO EAT:

Buendia Breakfast and Lunch

AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/Q UE E N C R E E K

BEFORE

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RIDING IN STYLE

THE WRANGLER 4XE IS AN ELECTRIFYING EXPERIENCE. ARTICLE BY FLORENCE DANIELS

D R IV E R’S N OT E BOOK | AUTO + MARI NE

The Earnhardt Dealership of Queen Creek introduces the Jeep Wrangler 4xe, which is not your run-of-the-mill Jeep. This is a whole new generation that will define the future of driving. Here is the perfect marriage of classic motoring with the use of innovative hybrid technology to fuel your next off-roading adventure. The 35-inch tires still maintain an impressive grip capability for exploring rugged terrain. You can also configure your Jeep to your liking, whether you want it enclosed or with the classic 'doors off' and enjoy the feel of the outdoors as you drive. Like any Jeep, the Wrangler 4xe is all about fun and adventure, but it is stylish and comfortable too. Wherever you venture you have the option of heated seats, even heated mirrors. The stylish seating comes in a choice of black or tan colors. Meanwhile, there is practical and versatile storage including a removable cargo floor and more. As you take to the roads, get into the mood with your favorite music using the nine-speaker Alpine Premium Audio system. There is an overhead sound bar, a 552-watt amplifier, and an allweather subwoofer. This Wrangler 4xe is also the most technologically advanced Jeep ever. There is now a keyless entry capability to make access easier if your hands are full. Not to mention the connectivity even when you are out and about in nature. The Wrangler 4xe comes with Wi-Fi on the go, allowing your passengers to explore the web and connect up to eight devices. Inside is the award-winning Uconnect system which is an 8.4 inch touchscreen. This allows the driver to customize the settings and even do so using voice commands. Finally, you need to be able to explore without getting lost. The Uconnect 4C NAV is your reliable co-pilot, navigating exactly where you need to go. Many features can be accessed via an app on your smartphone too. The Wrangler 4xe is designed to make your trips easier, better, and all while saving you money on gas by using an electric hybrid model. To learn more about the Jeep Wrangler 4xe visit Earnhardt Queen Creek Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram or go to: earnhardtford.com

J E E P W R A N G L E R 4 X E F E AT U R E S : • 4G LTE Wi-Fi Hotspot • Connect up to 8 devices • Uconnect 4C NAV • 8.4 inch touch screen • Forward facing off-road camera • Remote proximity keyless entry • Array of open top options • 9 speaker Alpine Premium Audio • Versatile storage • Heated mirrors and seats • Hybrid innovation • 35 inch tires

AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/Q UE E N C R E E K

Exploring New Heights WHERE TO HIKE AND EXPLORE IN THE EAST VALLEY.

ARTICLE BY FLORENCE DANIELS

When the breeze brushes against your skin, the temperate weather of an early desert Spring, it beckons you to venture outdoors. Hiking in Arizona has been a long-time popular pastime. The trails, the vistas, the nature all create a tempting landscape that seduces any adventurer to traverse and explore. We are fortunate that there are so many beautiful and diverse trails in the surrounding area, so you don't have to go far to indulge in a love of nature. Keep in mind the basics of hiking in our desert parks and make sure you take precautions, always bring along enough water. A good measure of when to turn back is when you get through half of your water supply. Wear durable, closed-toed shoes, a hat, and sunscreen is always a good idea! One final reminder to stay safe is to stay on the path. No matter how interesting another area may look or in an attempt to get a great photo, always keep to the designated trail. Now that we've covered the basics, here is a collection of some of the most scenic places for you to roam.

Superstition Mountains

G E T AC T IV E | SPORTS + RE CRE ATI ON

San Tan Mountain Regional Park

SAN TAN REGIONAL PARK

USERY MOUNTAIN REGIONAL PARK

Easy Hike: Moonlight Trail Hard Hike: San Tan Trail Size: 10,000 acres What to Expect: Plenty of trails, horseback riding and cycling as well. Lots of desert vegetation and wildlife.

Size: 29 miles of trails Easy Hike: Merkle Trail Hard Hike: Pass Mountain Trail What to Expect: trails are all multi-use with great vistas due to the elevation.

LOST DUTCHMAN STATE PARK

SOUTH MOUNTAIN PARK

Easy Hike: Jacob's Crosscut Trail Hard Hike: Siphon Draw Trail Park Fee: $10 per vehicle Highlights: Bird watching

Size: 16,000 Acres Easy Hike: Pima Wash Trail Hard Hike: Ma Ha Tauk Trail Highlights: Dobbins Lookout for great views of the Valley

AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/Q UE E N C R E E K

Sleep Inside, Outside

Photography by Amangiri, USA

3 Incredible places to (literally) sleep under the stars It’s always magical to spend a night sleeping under the stars. In decades past, adventure seekers have packed the SUV or camper with tents and gear for ‘roughin’ it’ in the great outdoors. But the swanky and exploding category of luxury outdoor hotel is something to investigate for an unforgettable, next-level experience. For those who prefer glamping rather than pitching their own tent fireside, here are a few options that incorporate sweeping views and a unique opportunity for travelers to be more authentically embedded in the landscape of the place they’re visiting. These resorts have bucket list-worthy rooms that capture the best of both the luxury resort experience and the outdoors. Whether you crave the dry heat of the remote Utah desert or the luminous beauty of the Northern Lights, we’ve curated a short list of some places you *must* check out.

O UT D OOR LIV IN G | TR AVE L

Amangiri, Utah In southern Utah, Amangiri is a five star resort perfect for an adventurous weekend in the desert. However, it is the simple rooms built to emphasize the beauty of Canyon Point that truly make it an incredible place to stay. Each suite has an outdoor lounge and fireplace with private pools or rooftop terraces available too. Don’t miss a dip in the ‘gram-worthy pool, which wraps around the landscape’s curved dunes and arid plateaus.

Hacienda Na Xamena, Ibiza The Spanish island Ibiza boasts lush pine forests, hidden calas (cove beaches) and Hacienda Na Xamena, a resort suspended on a cliff 600 feet above the Mediterranean. Guests flock to its spa for the eight saltwater thalassotherapy (seawater as a form of therapy) lagoons, which are linked together with waterfalls. Swim to the edge of the pool and drink in the sweeping sea vistas.

Photography by Pacuare Lodge

Pacuare Lodge, Costa Rica This jungle hideaway is so out there, you have to whitewater raft down a river or ride a gondola to get there. A network of hanging bridges connect the villas, which have thatched roofs, plantation teak wood floors, rattan furniture and private plunge pools. In the evening, zip 400 feet down a cable for a meal at the Nest, a platform at the top of a ceiba tree, then take a night-time stroll along romantic pathways lit by candles and lanterns. Photography by Pacuare Lodge AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/Q UE E N C R E E K

APRIL 2023

events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

A P RIL 1 ST

Archaeology Mini Expo

SAN TAN HISTORICAL S OCIETY MUS E UM | 1 0 :0 0 A M The San Tan Chapter of AZ Archaeological Society will host a free event in a hands-on setting with pottery making, flint napping, adobe brick making, safe hiking, and more. The Mini Expo will be held at the San Tan Historical Society Museum at 20435 S Old Ellsworth Rd, Queen Creek from 10am - 2pm. Parking is behind the Museum. azarchsoc.org/SanTan A P RIL 5T H

On Wheels

BAR VIN EDO | 6:30 PM Come to Bar Vinedo on April 5th from 6:30-8:30pm for a night of wine and design. This is a fun paint night for adults to sip wine while they learn to brush on canvas. No experience is needed as they will take through the process step-by-step. Registration is required. wineanddesign.com A P RIL 8T H

Easter Egg-citement

SC HN EPF FAR MS | 10:00 AM Come and enjoy an Easter egg hunt on the farm. There will be crafts, rides, jumping pillows, a ropes course, and of course a visit with the Easter Bunny. There are two timed hunts, one at 10am and the second at 1pm. To buy tickets, visit schnepffarms.com A P RIL 1 5T H

Spring Market

BELL BAN K PAR K | 10:00 AM On April 15th from 10am-4pm, Bell Bank Park will host over 150 local vendors, food trucks, live music, a photo booth, kids activities and more. A $10 entry fee will include parking. Purchase tickets at bellbankpark.com .

C o nust aforc your t Event Planning &

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Event Planning by Judy EAST VALLEY PHX AND BEYOND 512-762-5005

FULLY BOOKED FOR MARCH AND APRIL 2023

EVE N TS

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A P RIL 1 6T H

Muddy Princess

BELL BAN K PARK | 10:00 A M More Mud, More Fun! Muddy Princess is an outdoor 5km (3.1 miles) obstacle mud run for women coming to Bell Bank Park April 16th from 10am-6pm! This event is for Princesses of all sizes, ages and fitness levels. They focus on fun so be prepared to run, walk, crawl, climb, slide, balance and laugh your way along the course. bellbankpark.com A P RIL 2 1 ST - 2 4 T H

Annie Jr.

QUEEN CR EEK PER FOR MING A RTS C E NT E R | 7 :0 0 P M The story of little orphan Annie in 1930s New York City comes to the Queen Creek Performing Arts. Determined to find the parents who abandoned her years ago on the doorstep of an orphanage run by the cruel Miss Hannigan. Annie, with the help of a dog named Sandy, finds a new family. Performances run from 21st -24th. qcpac.com

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ARTICLE BY FLORENCE DANIELS PHOTOGRAPHY BY JUDY ZAFFUTO

PART Y P LA N N IN G | EV ENT PLANNI NG + S E RVI CE S

Whatcha Need Planning is a local event provider run by Judy Zaffuto that coordinates and plans events for milestone life celebrations. In operation for a year now, she takes care of the details, leaving the host more time to be a guest at their own event. Today, Zaffuto is a certified Event Planner, but she actually began in the dental field. She made a shift to Human Relations and Office Management which included planning conferences and corporate events. Yet, Zaffuto can trace her interest in event planning back to when she was 17 when she organized and hosted her older sister's baby shower. Her attention to detail was apparent even then, creating custom-made water bottles and Hershey candy wrappers. Zaffuto's passion lies in creating a personalized experience for her client. She begins by taking the client's vision and adding some creativity but working within the budget provided. While the challenges and the creativity involved in her line of work are many, Zaffuto gravitates especially to one aspect of the job in particular. She says, 'My favorite part is executing the event itself. It’s so satisfying knowing you helped a group of people, couples, or a person to have the event of their life. I love that I have a direct means to create an experience for people and facilitate an event that will be a lifelong memory of theirs.' She quickly follows this with her least favorite and that is saying goodbye to her clients, 'It’s like a breakup.' she claims. Certainly, after working so closely with people and on perhaps the biggest day of their lives, you couldn't blame Zaffuto for putting her heart into what she does. When it comes to planning any party, Zaffuto places her client at the center of all she does. She is adamant that it be a 'personalized' experience, providing unique and custom-made details that honor their experience. As a result, no two events are alike. Zaffuto's knowledge of event planning means she understands the pitfalls people often make when it comes to their own get-togethers. She recommends that you should avoid trying to do it all on your own. Secondly, have a budget in mind so you don't overspend. Finally, she suggests as the host or hostess you should focus on the 'why' you are celebrating and not as much on the look of the event.

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