ClubSport brings fitness, wellness, and recovery together under one roof so you can feel your best inside and out. From high-energy group training to soothing Red Light by LightStim®, HydroMassage, and Compression Therapy, you’ll find everything you need to thrive this year. CLUBSPORT IS
$0 ENROLLMENT + GET 1 FREE FULL-BODY RED LIGHT BY LIGHTSTIM® SESSION WHEN YOU JOIN. VISIT CLUBSPORTS.COM/SADDLEBACK TO REDEEM THIS OFFER!
CHOOSE YOUR PERFECT MEMBERSHIP
Friends Membership: Add up to 4 adults under one membership—the more you add, the more you save! Stay motivated, build a strong community, and achieve your fitness goals together.
Family Membership: Includes up to 3 hours of free childcare daily (no reservations needed!) Plus, grandparents can be included at no extra cost. Visit clubsports.com/saddleback or scan the QR code to redeem your membership offer.
Welcome Home to Saddleback Stories!
I’m excited to step in as your new Editor for Saddleback City Lifestyle, your monthly guide to the heart and homes near Saddleback Mountain. Each issue lands monthly on doorsteps and in mailboxes and businesses throughout Laguna Niguel, Aliso Viejo, Laguna Hills, and Mission Viejo.
South Orange County has always held a special place in my heart. I grew up in Mission Viejo and can still picture deer grazing on the mountain behind my childhood home. I watched the master-planned community expand thoughtfully to its edges, carefully balancing growth with preserved green space. Some of my earliest memories include banana splits at Swensen’s Ice Cream Parlor; memories that later gave way to driving friends for frozen yogurt, and eventually stopping by the newest artisan coffee spot. I remember accepting my diploma as valedictorian at Capistrano Valley High School, a milestone shaping my future. Years later, I found myself cheering on my own children on new sports fields that now weave these neighborhoods together.
From those early days to now, I’ve seen inciting new restaurants emerge, boutique businesses flourish, innovative wellness studios open, and local events draw everyone together. Saddleback always seems to evolve while honoring the roots that make it feel like home.
There truly is no place like it. Year-round perfect weather, spacious streets free from urban chaos, beautiful homes that reflect personal style, and an abundance of businesses to meet every need and whim. What sets this region apart is the people and community spirit. Neighbors rally around school fundraisers, families fill weekend trails and beaches, volunteers sustain nonprofits, and entrepreneurs pour passion into new ventures. From lifelong residents to newcomers, everyone feels invested, creating bonds that turn houses into homes and acquaintances into lifelong friends.
As your new editor, I’m eager to highlight the stories that define this community: innovators shaping the culinary scene, families blending wellness into daily life, leaders driving positive change, and everyday moments that capture the local lifestyle. With my roots here, I’ll bring fresh perspectives that celebrate what makes Saddleback special.
Thank you for welcoming me. Let’s fill these pages with the voices, businesses, and inspirations that define the community. I look forward to connecting and hearing your stories.
PAIGE CANDEE, EDITOR @SADDLEBACKCITYLIFESTYLE
March 2026
PUBLISHER
Toral Parmar | toral.parmar@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Nick Parmar | nick.parmar@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Paige Candee | paige.candee@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Travis Shields | www.shieldsfilms.tv
STAFF WRITER
Heather Holmes Whitsitt
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Bailey Hall, Heather Whitsitt, Jennifer Florendo
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Travis Shields, Lyla Messenger, Ruben Sandu, Mark Kulinski
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich
LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle Proverbs 3:5-6
Homemade Ice Cream, Argentinian Style Taste the creamy, handcrafted goodness of Pampas Helados Argentinos — made the traditional Argentinian way!
Perfect for events, parties, or any celebration. We offer mobile and catering services for all your events & parties!
We offer Spanish-Style Churros, Alfajores, Coffee & Espresso drinks, Paletas & Cubanitos, Helados Cake. Order Now!
pampasheladosargentinos.com
BELLA DERM-A NEW STANDARD IN NATURAL, ETHICAL AESTHETIC MEDICINE
The art of aesthetics is not to alter, but to harmonize what’s already yours.
At Bella Derm you’ll never feel rushed. Every visit is thoughtful, calm, and centered entirely on you.
Founded by USC Keck School of Medicine-trained PA-C Daniela Pimentle, Bella Derm helps women look like themselves--only softer, rested, and gracefully renewed.
We specialize in subtle Botox, Dysport, Juvederme, Restylanes, PRP, microneedling, and personalized treatment plans that honor your natural beauty with medical precision and warm, attentive care. Women choose Bella Derm because they want subtle refinement-not trends. They want an expert who listens, evaluates honestly, and treats with integrity. If you’re seeking aesthetic care that elevates rather than alters, Bella Derm is where your next chapter of confidence begins.
As our welcome, enjoy EXCLUSIVE MEMBER PRICING on the treatment recommended during your consultation.
Woof Gang Bakery
&
Grooming Continues Serving Marina Hills Pets
Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming-Laguna Niguel has been serving as a local spot for full-service grooming, specialty pet treats, and premium essentials. The shop offers personalized grooming for all breeds and a curated selection of pet care products. Since opening last year, it has become a regular stop for nearby pet owners seeking professional care and everyday supplies for their animals.
Photography by Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming
LOVE WHERE
You Live
BE BOLD AND EMBARK ON A FUN HOME REFRESH WITH CALICO
ARTICLE BY HEATHER WHITSITT PHOTOGRAPHY BY CALICO
Everyone deserves to love their home, and every home deserves a little extra care from time to time. Thoughtful design has the power to transform daily life, creating spaces that feel elevated, beautiful, and uniquely personal.
For decades, homeowners have turned to Calico (calicocorners.com), a multi-generational design retailer with more than 50 design shops nationwide. Its Laguna Niguel location, relocated in 2022 to 23966 Aliso Creek Road, carries that tradition of inspired, approachable luxury forward.
Founded in 1948, Calico has refined the design process into something both seamless and collaborative. As a true onestop destination for decorating, they offer everything from stunning custom window treatments to gorgeous upholstery, bedding, cushions, and pillows that are supported by complimentary, tailored design guidance at every stage.
“Your home should be designed around your lifestyle,” shares one of the designers at Calico. “Your taste is unique and personal, which is why it will never seem out of style.”
At Calico, the focus is on discovering the colors, textures, and patterns that reflect your personal style, incorporating elements that bring joy into everyday living. Through decades of firsthand experience and customer testimonials, Calico understands how profoundly thoughtful design can elevate a home, and the people who live in it.
Bid farewell to outdated décor, faded fabrics, and tired furnishings that subtly signal a space is ready for renewed attention. In contrast, a thoughtfully designed room feels welcoming and energizing; an inviting space to come home to, day after day, with a sense of classic style that never fades.
Calico’s designers encourage clients with a simple mantra: “Don’t be afraid to be bold, be creative, be you!” For clients seeking color and pattern, they deliver. Over the past decade, gray and beige have come to dominate residential interiors, now accounting for nearly half of the color in our homes.
While neutrals have their place, too much restraint can leave rooms feeling flat and uninspired. If your space feels color-deprived, vibrant hues and expressive patterns can instantly reinvigorate a neutral palette.
Calico’s fabric gallery features more than 5,000 luxurious options, spanning every style imaginable, with
something sure to suit even the most discerning of tastes. Browse at your own pace and take it all in or enlist the help of their onsite designers to curate selections that just feel right.
With this expressive philosophy as a guide, your creative journey begins the moment you step inside the Laguna Niguel design shop. Open and light-filled, spanning 2,900 square feet, the space showcases an extensive collection of fabrics, trims, hardware, and custom window treatments.
Their impressive selection also includes blinds and shades from Hunter Douglas, thoughtfully presented alongside upholstered furniture, pillows, bedding, and wallpaper. Inspiring
displays present polished, yet livable interiors, offering beautifully considered ideas that translate effortlessly into your own home. Throughout the showroom, iPads provide access to an array of stylish and classic options, inviting you to peruse at your leisure.
When it’s time to refresh your personal space, Calico offers a seamless and sophisticated way to support a local business. The store is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with weekend appointments available upon request. Complimentary design services are available both in-store and at home, ensuring a tailored experience every step of the way.
Taking the reins of your energy future with Lyla Messenger
ARTICLE BY HEATHER WHITSITT PHOTOGRAPHY BY LYLA MESSENGER AND SUNRUN
In an era defined by escalating energy costs and a critical need for sustainability, the shift to renewable energy is more appealing than ever. Navigating that shift can feel overwhelming without the right guidance. Lyla Messenger, a senior solar consultant with Sunrun, works with local families to help
“I love helping homeowners discover that they do have a real alternative to the constant, unpredictable rate hikes from the utility companies.”
them understand what solar energy could look like for their homes and their transition plans for a seamless, sophisticated lifestyle upgrade.
In an era defined by escalating energy costs and a critical need for sustainability, the shift to renewable energy is more appealing than ever. Lyla Messenger, a senior solar consultant with Sunrun, transforms this transition for homeowners, making the move to solar power a seamless, sophisticated lifestyle upgrade.
With a decade of experience in the solar industry, including two years dedicated to Sunrun, Lyla is known for her professionalism and attentive customer service. She oversees the entire process, from education and system design to installation, inspection, and long-term support. Lyla’s personalized approach ensures exceptional results, empowering
families to confidently embrace reliable and affordable renewable energy.
Introducing the Sunrun FLEX Program: Designed to Grow With You
“What sets Sunrun apart is zero dollars down and our new exclusive Sunrun FLEX Program," Lyla shares.
Most solar energy systems are sized for current energy use, but Sunrun data shows that household consumption typically increases by about 15% in the first year after installation. Sunrun FLEX is the industry's first plan designed to flex with a homeowner's evolving energy needs.
"Instead of locking families into a system sized only for today," Lyla explains, "FLEX adapts as life evolves—be it bigger families, EVs, heat pumps, or just higher usage over time."
THE FLEX ADVANTAGE:
Sunrun FLEX is an adaptive solar and battery subscription plan that solves the common problem of outgrowing a system by providing dependable solutions:
• Extra Capacity Upfront: The system includes enhanced solar capacity and expanded battery storage from the start, surpassing a standard system.
• Locked-in Rate: A low, locked-in rate for any energy consumption above your pre-solar baseline.
• Never Overpay Guarantee: The FLEX Guarantee ensures you never overpay for the energy your panels produce annually.
• Dependable Backup Power: Comprehensive, longer-lasting battery backup ensures uninterrupted power during outages.
• Flexible Rollover Credits: Allows you to bank credits during low-usage months, available when your household needs grow.
Lyla’s clients range from families seeking relief from escalating utility bills to homeowners embracing the convenience and sustainability of electric vehicles, pool systems, or full home electrification.
A Focus on Confidence and Informed Decisions
Lyla’s goal is simple: "I want every homeowner to feel they made the right choice: not just for today, but for the lifestyle they envision tomorrow."
She firmly believes in the unparalleled quality of Sunrun’s services and is guided by mottos like “If it’s to be, it’s up to me,” “Givers gain,” and “Never give up.” Lyla is driven to deliver the best results by ensuring homeowners feel educated, supported, and confident throughout the entire process.
“I love helping homeowners discover that they do have a real alternative to the constant, unpredictable rate hikes from the utility companies,” she says.
“Many people don’t believe that going solar can be this simple, and I get to be the one who shows them that with Sunrun, it truly is.”
Whether you're exploring solar energy for the first time or seeking an elevated energy solution, partnering with Lyla Messenger promises a seamless, stress-free transition toward a rewarding and sustainable energy enhancement. With her guidance, homeowners are paving the way to a brighter, more sustainable future.
Readers interested in learning more about solar options can connect with Lyla at gosunrun.com/ lylamessenger
Spring is the season to refresh your wardrobe and how you feel. Stylized Threads is a personal clothing stylist company, led by a former NYC fashion professional, helping busy, ambitious executives reclaim time and curate a wardrobe that mirrors who they are today. Services include closet curation, seasonal planning, and private shopping.
ARTICLE BY BAILEY HALL PHOTOGRAPHY BY TRAVIS SHIELDS
Chef Lindsay of Nirvana Laguna reveals how she brings her restaurant’s signature warmth and global flavors home—crafting nourishing, effortless meals
At Home with
Chef Lindsay
For Chef Lindsay, cooking at home is not a scaled-down version of restaurant life—it’s an intentional shift. Where the professional kitchen demands precision, speed, and constant orchestration, home cooking is about nourishment, ease, and connection. As a mother of two with a full calendar, she approaches meals the same way she approaches hospitality at Nirvana: thoughtfully, but without unnecessary complication.
“At home, food needs to be nutrient-dense, flavorful, and efficient,” she says. “I want to enjoy time with my kids and the people I love—not feel like I’m working another shift.” That philosophy shapes everything from her pantry staples to how she entertains. Often, dinner begins at Nirvana itself—house-made sauces, pestos, and dressings doing the heavy lifting so meals come together effortlessly. A simply baked halibut finished with fresh herbs, salmon paired with basil garlic aioli, or ravioli elevated with seasonal vegetables all feel special without being fussy.
Spices play a central role in her cooking, especially Nirvana’s signature blackening blend—a paprika-based mix she uses on everything from eggs to grilled meats. Alongside it are global influences that reflect both her life stages and cravings: Mediterranean, French, Italian, Latin, and Indian flavors that weave their way naturally into her food.
Her pantry and refrigerator are stocked with intention—organic, nonGMO, seed-oil-free ingredients whenever possible, with an emphasis on
clean European sourcing and seasonal produce.
“When your pantry supports your values, flavor follows,” she explains.
When entertaining, Chef Lindsay leans on dishes that have stood the test of time, like her salmon with basil aioli, caramelized leek mashed potatoes, and asparagus—something she’s been making since she was 19 and has served for nearly two decades at Nirvana.
Above all, she believes cooking should never feel intimidating. “Food is meant to gather people,” she says. “It feeds us physically, but it also creates memories. That’s the real magic.”
For Chef Lindsay, whether at home or at Nirvana, cooking is an act of service—one that brings people together, one table at a time.
"AT HOME, FOOD NEEDS TO BE NUTRIENT-DENSE, FLAVORFUL, AND EFFICIENT. I WANT TO ENJOY TIME WITH MY KIDS AND THE PEOPLE I LOVE—NOT FEEL LIKE I’M WORKING ANOTHER SHIFT." - CHEF LINDSAY
Unveil a more radiant, youthful you. At Refined Radiance Aesthetics, we offer a range of nonsurgical cosmetic procedures including Botox, fillers, and skin tightening treatments. All performed by experienced professionals in our boutique experience.
Limited time offer: Book your complimentary consultation today and receive 20% off your first treatment
Book Your Consultation Today (657)288-2115 Refined-radiance-aesthetics.com
PHOENIX PAINT SERVICES SETS NEW STANDARD IN RESIDENTIAL PAINTING MASTERY
THE ART OF ELEVATED LIVING
ARTICLE BY HEATHER WHITSITT
PHOTOGRAPHY BY PHOENIX PAINT SERVICES
“PHOENIX PAINT SERVICES HAS EARNED A REPUTATION AS ONE OF THE MOST SOUGHT-AFTER PAINTING SERVICES IN THE AREA, EVIDENT BY MORE THAN 130 FIVE-STAR REVIEWS.”
In the elegant enclaves of Orange County, where private residences are both works of art and expressions of refined living, Phoenix Paint Services ( phoenixpaintservices.com) is a name synonymous with excellence.
With more than 25 years in the industry, founder and owner Mark Kulinski leads the company with a focus on integrity, leadership, and consistent quality.
The family-owned residential painting company based in the OC, with additional locations in Los Angeles and Denver, has earned a reputation as one of the most sought-after painting services in the area, evident by more than 130 five-star reviews.
Mark’s team is entrusted by discerning clientele to deliver impeccable artistry and a seamless experience from concept to completion.
In his early 20s, Mark’s journey to entrepreneurship began when he was tasked with significant responsibility while working for an established painting contractor.
From managing crews and overseeing projects to ensuring exceptional outcomes, Mark developed the technical expertise and operational insight that would later shape his professional future.
With confidence and a sharpened skillset, Mark founded Phoenix Paint Services at the age of 23.
Ultimately, the decision was a fortuitous one.
“The thing I enjoy most about running my business is the people I work with and working for myself in general,” says Mark. “I’m a natural leader and I enjoy teaching people how to be great painters and painting contractors.”
What distinguishes Phoenix Paint Services from its competitors is the thoughtful, highly disciplined process behind every project.
"We have a dedicated, full-time office staff, which our customers love for communication and efficiency. Prospective clients can request free estimates through the company's established inquiry process,” Mark explains.
As the owner, Mark remains personally involved in both sales and daily operations, a hands-on approach backed by a deeply loyal team.
“All of our employees have been with us for years and are not only very talented painters, but they’re also very good people,” shares Mark.
Thanks to his hands-on leadership style, Mark cultivates trust in both his employees and clientele.
Looking ahead, the company plans to continue strengthening its existing locations, with the potential to open a San Diego branch of the business. Beyond opportunities for expansion, Mark hopes to use his expertise to help others flourish.
“Over the years, I’ve learned so much about this business, and I can help people start and run other locations successfully, so eventually, I’d like to franchise,” he says.
At the heart of Mark’s success is a simple, enduring belief: “The way I [try to] live my life and operate my business is that I always do the right thing. Whether it helps me or hurts me, I stay very consistent and want to be able to sleep peacefully at night,” Mark shares.
Over the years, entrepreneurship has taught Mark many valuable life lessons, with patience and trust standing out the most. “Trust that doing the right thing consistently will pay off and the patience to let that happen when it’s supposed to,” he explains, highlighting how these principles guide him in overcoming life’s many challenges.
Beyond his business endeavors, Mark’s personal life remains rich and fulfilling. As a devoted father, stepfather, and proud grandfather, he cherishes every moment spent with his loved ones.
Mark keeps his well-being in check through a mix of physical pursuits, including golf, paddleboarding, CrossFit, and daily trips to the beach.
The balance and purpose Mark brings to life are reflected in the philosophy of his business, a vision that elevates craftsmanship, people, and principles above all else.
“THE WAY I LIVE MY LIFE AND OPERATE MY BUSINESS IS THAT I ALWAYS DO THE RIGHT THING. WHETHER IT HELPS ME OR HURTS ME, I STAY VERY CONSISTENT.”
Photo credit: Travis Shield
Nisharag (Nish) Shah
C&C Plumbing
C & C Plumbing has built a reputation in the Orange County area by providing unparalleled service to our customers.
Our goal is to provide you with quality plumbing service at an affordable price.
MARCH 2026
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
MARCH 6TH
Festival of Whales
Dana Point Harbor
The annual Dana Point Festival of Whales celebrates the return of the California Gray Whale with a full weekend of activities from March 6th through the 8th. The festival will include peak-season whale watching, a kick-off parade, art shows, live music, ocean education, kids’ crafts, and paddle events. Enjoy food, exhibits, and entertainment throughout the Harbor, Ocean Institute, and surrounding venues.
MARCH 14TH
Spring Crafts & Marketplace
Crown Valley Community CenterLaguna Niguel | 9:00 AM
Easy shopping for Easter and Mother’s Day starts with the Spring Crafts & Marketplace hosted by the Laguna Niguel Chamber of Commerce. The event brings together talented crafters, artisans, and small business merchants offering oneof-a-kind gifts, handmade goods, and specialty items. It’s the perfect spot to shop local and meet the creative minds behind the products. Most booths are inside the Community Center.
MARCH 18TH
Nirvana by Chef Lindsay’s 18-Year Anniversary Celebration
Nirvana by Chef Lindsay
Nirvana by Chef Lindsay celebrates its 18-year anniversary on March 18, 2026. To commemorate the milestone, the restaurant is offering every menu item for $18 on March 18th, inviting the community to experience their signature global flavors and warm hospitality. A delicious way to honor 18 remarkable years.
www.lagunahealthpharmacy.com 949-446-9325 | info@lagunahealthpharmacy.com 24953 Paseo De Valencia, STE 1C Laguna Hills, CA 92653
CONTINUED
MARCH 21ST
Styled for Success
Laura’s House | 10:00 AM
Stylized Threads a personal styling company and Laura’s House are hosting a free 2.5-hour styling class to support domestic violence survivors restarting their lives. Donate business-casual clothing, shoes, accessories, and handbags during spring cleaning. Collection dates at Laura’s House, located at 33 Journey, Suite 150, Aliso Viejo, run from March 21st through April 4th, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Please mention “Styled for Success” while making your donations.
MARCH 26TH
2026 Excellence in Entrepreneurship Award & Luncheon
Irvine Marriott | 11:00 AM
Celebrate standout business leaders at this distinguished Orange County Business Journal event honoring entrepreneurs who exemplify creativity, determination, and innovation. The event, held at the Irvine Marriott located at 18000 Von Karman Ave, Irvine, is a great opportunity to recognize clients, partners, and colleagues making an impact.
MARCH 28TH
Springtime in Paris Boutique - Mission Viejo
Norman P. Murray Community and Senior Center, Mission Viejo | 8:00 AM
The Mission Viejo Activities Committee presents the enchanting Springtime in Paris Boutique. Discover unique home and garden décor, bling, art, clothing, gourmet foods, and organic beauty products from more than 70 talented local artists and crafters with items perfect for Easter, Mother’s Day, and Father’s Day. Enjoy live entertainment, food and drinks, and a raffle for a deluxe gift basket.
