Scottsdale, AZ March 2026

At Home With Phoenix Mercury Head Coach

Nate Tibbetts

Home Sweet Home

For years, keeping up with my house was a battle. Young kids equaled mess everywhere—piles here, piles there, shoes strewn about, backpacks dropped in the middle of rooms. Parents everywhere know exactly what I mean. It was chaos, but looking back, it also makes me smile. It was a lived-in home with warmth and laughter (and yes, a few meltdowns, but we’ll gloss over those for now).

Today, my children are away in college, and now my home is much neater—except when they stop home, of course!—and I’m finally finding the time to decorate with more intentional and curated spaces. The rooms look different—cleaner, calmer—but I’d be lying if I said I (mostly) don’t miss the clutter. Because that clutter wasn’t mess at all; it was proof of life, of laughter, of a home doing exactly what it was meant to do.

Home is never just four walls. It’s a living, breathing reflection of who we are and who we’ve been. For this Home issue, we’re exploring the many ways home evolves over time, shaped by ambition, family, culture, and change.

Our cover feature captures that balance beautifully. Phoenix Mercury head coach Nate Tibbetts invites us into his world and home, revealing a more personal side as he talks about coaching, family, and the role home plays in keeping him grounded.

Looking forward, designer Lauren Lerner of Living With Lolo shares what homeowners are requesting for 2026. From kitchens designed with longevity in mind to lighting that’s as emotional as it is functional, her insights reflect a shift toward homes that endure—spaces built not just for now, but for every chapter ahead.

Home is also something we carry with us. In  Tastes Like Home, chefs share dishes inspired by their native countries, reminding us that comfort, memory, and identity can live on a plate as powerfully as they do within walls.

There’s so much more to the issue, too, from a story on The Botanist to a look at Scottsdale Art Week, and more.

Together, these stories reflect on what makes Scottsdale living so distinctive: a blend of luxury and authenticity, global influence, and local pride.

I hope this issue inspires you to think of home not only as a place, but as an evolving expression of how you live, what you value, and who you’re becoming.

Yours,

MICHELLE GLICKSMAN, EDITOR

March 2026

PUBLISHER

Alicia Haygood | alicia.haygood@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Michelle Glicksman

michelle.glicksman@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Faith Morello | faith.morello@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Alison Bailin Batz, Lauren Lerner, Judith Smith

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Danielle Muccillo, Stephanie Studer

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto

LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

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

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letter from the PUBLISHER

There’s something special about getting a sneak peek into someone’s life through the place they call home. Our homes tell a story—one of where we’ve been, what we love, and the passions and adventures that shape us. As life evolves, so do our spaces, reflecting new chapters, styles, and seasons along the way.

In this issue, we explore what home means through the people and stories that make our community so special. We’re invited into the world of Phoenix Mercury Basketball head coach Nate Tibbetts. Discover new home innovations that make everyday living feel a little more elevated. We also talk with local chefs who have brought the flavors of their hometown to tables across the Valley. Together, these stories remind us that home isn’t just a place, it’s a feeling we carry with us, shaped by our experiences and the people we love.

My home showcases all of these things. The walls are filled with art and pictures from our travels. I’m always looking for new kitchen gadgets to make cooking easier. And as someone who has lived all over, my flavor palate is, well, all over—which is great since all of our featured chefs are from some of my favorite cities.

They say, “Home is where the heart is,” and no matter where I go in Scottsdale, I feel right at home. That sense of comfort, pride, and connection is exactly what I hope you feel as you turn these pages.

Alicia Haygood  Owner/Publisher

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At Home With Coach Nate Tibbetts

The Phoenix Mercury Coach Talks Basketball, Family, Home, and Being a Connector

ARTICLE BY MICHELLE GLICKSMAN

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DANIELLE MUCCILLO

By the time Nate Tibbetts walks through his front door, the noise and pressure of WNBA basketball give way to something quieter— and far more grounding. Inside his Valley home, he’s not just the head coach of the Phoenix Mercury. He’s a husband, a father of twin girls, and, more recently, the owner of two puppies.

For Tibbetts, leadership has always been intertwined with family. Raised in a basketball household—his father coached high school girls basketball—his childhood often traded traditional vacations for basketball camps, which would later influence his choice of career.

“I think just growing up in a basketball family,” he says of his draw toward coaching. “We didn’t do a lot of vacations as a kid. We did a lot of basketball camps … I fell in love with the game.”

Coaching felt inevitable.

“I always kind of viewed myself as a leader on the teams that I played on, and I always knew I wanted to coach,” he explains. “I didn’t know what I would coach … I just knew that I wanted to coach, and I had seen it growing up from my dad, and I thought that was a cool way to live.”

And it is. Tibbetts began his coaching career after graduating from the University of South Dakota. He worked with several teams, in roles including as head coach with the NBA D-League team Sioux Falls Skyforce and assistant coach with the NBA’s Orlando Magic, Portland Trailblazers, and Cleveland Cavaliers, before being offered the head coach role for the Phoenix Mercury in October 2023. It’s been a fit all around.

The Mercury has had two impressive seasons, qualifying for the playoffs in both 2024 and 2025, with Tibbetts leading the team to its sixth WNBA Finals appearance in franchise history in 2025.

BRINGING HIS UPBRINGING TO COACHING

Tibbetts brings the foundation he grew up with to the job, sharing that it defines how he leads the team. Both of his parents were teachers, so he learned early that connection matters.

“Just finding different ways to connect with your players,” he says of what he learned from his parents’ profession. “People learn in different ways. I probably lean toward the more positive approach … I want players to feel

“It was the pull for me. I think our goal was that, when the kids get older, people want to come to our house.”

comfortable with how they’re playing and in the way that things are being told to them. I think just being around the game and being around educators as a young person really kind of helped mold me as a coach.”

He distills his coaching philosophy simply: “I would say that I’m a connector. I believe in building relationships with your players and building that trust and trying to get them all to believe in a common goal.”

That approach carried him through years in the NBA and ultimately to Phoenix, where the opportunity to lead the Mercury felt both timely and meaningful.

“First off, the opportunity to be a head coach again,” he says. “I just feel extremely blessed to be able to help lead such a great organization with such a proud past.”

FAMILY AND BEING A PARENT

While being a head coach comes with high expectations, it’s his family that keeps everything in perspective.

“Having kids definitely changes your outlook,” Tibbetts says of his wife, Lyndsey, and twin 7-year-old daughters, Londyn and Jordyn. “This job and profession are very, very important, but having your family and kids and valuing that is even more important.”

For Tibbetts, home with family is one of his favorite places to be. As we talk, he shares how that morning, one of his daughters woke up early and began working on spelling words and reading a book before her sister was awake.

“Being a parent is a special opportunity,” he says. “You’re getting to lay a foundation of how they grow up and who they want to be.”

Home, for the Tibbetts family, is designed for exactly that kind of togetherness. When the move to the Valley was on the table, they toured multiple properties—and one feature sealed their final choice.

THE DRAW OF THE BACKYARD

“I would say the thing with our house is probably just the backyard,” he explains. “It was the pull for me. I think our goal was that, when the kids get older, people want to come to our house.”

The backyard is the perfect place for the family to spend time together outside and enjoy the beautiful weather Arizona offers, including pickleball, which has become a family activity.

THE DRAW OF THE VALLEY

Arizona itself has been an easy fit. Originally from South Dakota, Tibbetts and Lyndsey embrace the desert climate.

“We love the sun, and we love the heat,” he says. “There’s a certain vibe when you wake up in the morning and you see the

sun every day. Our winters are something special, as are the sunrises and sunsets. We’ve absolutely loved being here and hope to be here for a long time.”

He also enjoys many of the Valley’s offerings, such as restaurants like Blanco Tacos + Tequila and Fat Ox.

A PLACE TO EXHALE

If players expect their coach to have a more glamorous off-court life, Tibbetts is quick to set the record straight.

“I’m pretty boring,” he says. “I like to spend a lot of time at home with my family … just doing stuff around the house.”

After years of constant NBA travel, home has become a place to exhale.

“When you get home, it’s just nice to be home,” he shares. “Also, there’s just a difference going from an assistant to a head coach. As an assistant, you make suggestions. As a head coach, you make decisions that affect a lot of people. It’s a very rewarding but stressful job at the same time, so when you do step away from the office here in Phoenix, it’s like you just want to breathe and relax at home.”

Recently, that home also includes two energetic additions: Jimmy, a 10-month-old puppy, and Georgie, a 9-week-old puppy, who had joined the family just a few days prior.

“We’re all in now,” Tibbetts says of being a pet family, noting that the girls even made a checklist of responsibilities they were going to handle if they could get the newest puppy. “It’s been fun to see the girls love on Jimmy. You know, they used to walk into our room and want to see mom and dad, but now they walk right past and go to Jimmy. And now Jimmy’s not getting as much love because of little Georgie. It’s been fun to see them enjoy having dogs in their lives.”

Looking ahead, Tibbetts’ definition of success remains rooted in the same priorities.

“Obviously, being a great father and husband is number one,” he says. “And then just the opportunity to continue to grow as a coach and a leader here with the Mercury.”

In the end, whether courtside or in the backyard, Coach Nate Tibbetts leads the same way he always has—by building trust, creating connection, and valuing the people who make a house, and a team, feel like home.

FROM KITCHENS TO LIGHTING, HERE’S WHAT HOMEOWNERS ARE REQUESTING

WHAT’S NEXT IN HOMES

OPEN CONCEPT

ISN’T GOING AWAY, BUT IT IS EVOLVING IN A BIG WAY.

As we look toward 2026, the most successful new builds are the ones designed with longevity in mind. Homeowners are thinking less about what looks good on day one and more about how their homes will support daily life, health, and flexibility over the next decade. As a licensed contractor and interior designer, I consistently see the best results when design and construction decisions are made together from the start.

One of the biggest must-haves is a highly intentional kitchen and living room layout. Open concept isn’t going away, but it is evolving in a big way. Clients want spaces that feel connected. That means kitchens that remain open to living areas, paired with thoughtful zoning. Islands are being sized for real use and walkways are wider. Prep zones are separated from entertaining areas so the kitchen can still function when the house is full. In living rooms, we design for furniture placement first and architecture second. Built-ins, fireplaces, and ceiling details are aligned with how people actually sit, gather, and move through the space.

WHAT HOMEOWNERS OFTEN GET WRONG IS CHASING FEATURES WITHOUT CONSIDERING HOW THEY’LL FUNCTION DAY TO DAY AND OVER THE YEARS.

Wellness-driven design is also becoming an expectation rather than a luxury add-on. Walk-in showers with no thresholds are now standard in primary suites, not only for accessibility, but for everyday comfort and ease of use. Homeowners are choosing larger showers with multiple shower heads, built-in benches, and natural stone or textured tile that delivers a spa-like feel. Freestanding tubs are still popular, but only when space allows them to be used comfortably.

Clients are also thinking more seriously about aging in place, which requires planning well before it feels necessary. We’re seeing extra bedrooms repurposed into dedicated wellness spaces that can evolve over time. These rooms may include saunas, red light therapy, cold plunges, or simple zones for stretching and recovery. The key is planning the infrastructure early so these spaces feel integrated, not retrofitted when the time comes to needing them, and thinking in advance about things like your bathtub. You may like the idea of a freestanding tub, but as you age, it’s often not practical to get in and out of it easily.

Lighting plays a major role in wellness, as well. We’re designing layered lighting plans that support circadian rhythms, with softer

ambient lighting in the evening and brighter task lighting where precision is needed. Large windows and sliding doors remain a priority, but with better control shading and drapery to manage heat and glare, especially in desert climates.

Another must-have is flexibility. Bonus rooms are being designed to shift easily between guest space, home office, or wellness room as needs change. That means accounting for acoustics, lighting, and storage from the beginning. It is far more cost-effective and seamless to build flexibility into the structure than to retrofit later.

What homeowners often get wrong is chasing features without considering how they’ll function day to day and over the years. The best homes aren’t overloaded with technology or trends. They are grounded in smart layouts, durable materials, and wellness features that actually improve daily life. When these decisions are made early, the home feels intentional, timeless, and deeply livable.

Lauren Lerner is the founder and principal designer of Living with Lolo (LivingWithLolo.com), a Scottsdale-based luxury interior design and construction firm.

TASTES LIKE HOME

ARTICLE BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ

Dining is always about more than what is on the plate. It is about stories, journeys, and the childhood memories of the Valley’s most compelling culinary voices. Kitchens across the Valley are filled with chefs who arrived from somewhere else, carrying flavors in their back pockets and traditions in their hearts. For them, cooking is not just craft. It is the ultimate connection, both to guests and to home.

It is New Orleans sensibility translated for the desert: honest, ingredient-driven, and deeply personal.

That sentiment is felt deeply at Buck & Rider ( BuckAndRider.com), where seafood arrives faster than most people’s luggage. For Adam Strecker, CEO and founding partner of Hi Noon Hospitality, the restaurant is a love letter to his New Orleans upbringing. Raised on Lake Pontchartrain, weekends meant fishing, crabbing, and time spent with family near the Seabrook Bridge. That rhythm never left him. Even after fishing across the globe, Strecker still returns home with his children, fishing rod in hand. That respect for the water defines Buck & Rider. The restaurant flies in never-frozen seafood directly from small, sustainable producers, often serving it within 24 to 36 hours of it being pulled from the ocean. Menus change daily, raw bar selections are time-stamped, and freshness is treated not as a buzzword but as a promise. It is New Orleans sensibility translated for the desert: honest, ingredient-driven, and deeply personal.

At Maple & Ash (MapleAndAsh.com), home arrives in a very different form, stacked high and dripping in nostalgia. Chef Danny Grant’s Sundae Tower is not simply dessert. It is a memory made monumental. Growing up on Long Island, movie nights often ended not with closing credits but with his mother disappearing into the kitchen and returning with towering ice cream sundaes layered with melted candy bars, hot fudge, toasted coconut, and whipped cream. At Maple & Ash, that moment is recreated with unapologetic indulgence. Meant to be shared, the Sundae Tower is playful, excessive, and joyful—a reminder that sometimes the most meaningful flavors come from childhood rituals.

Midwestern roots anchor the cooking at Course Restaurant (CourseRestaurantAZ.com), where chef Cory Oppold brings his Illinois upbringing to life through refined tasting menus. Raised on a dairy farm in Freeport, Oppold learned early to respect ingredients and let them speak. That philosophy

shows up in thoughtful ways, like a recent amuse featuring Mrs. Mike’s potato chips from his hometown, transformed into a playful potato salad with Kaluga caviar, dill, and aerated potato. Butter, unsurprisingly, plays a starring role. For Oppold, it is not indulgence. It is tradition.

French heritage defines the menu at J&G Steakhouse at The Phoenician ( JGSteakhouse.com), where executive chef Jacques Qualin’s journey reads like a master class in classical training. Raised in the rural Franche-Comté region of France, Qualin trained under culinary icons, including Jean-Georges Vongerichten and Daniel Boulud, before bringing his talents to Scottsdale. His menu reflects that lineage with dishes like French onion soup, foie gras terrine, Dover sole, and potato gratin with Comté, pairing technical precision with rustic generosity.

Italian soul fills the dining room at Marcellino Ristorante ( MarcellinoRistorante.com), where chef Marcellino Verzino has spent more than two decades sharing his heritage. Raised on a family farm in Campania, Italy, Verzino learned to cook out of necessity after losing his mother at a young age. Every dish is made from scratch, from secret-recipe pastas like paccatelli and gnocchi Sorrentina to the housemade tiramisu that ends meals on a sweet, unmistakably Italian note.

At Hearth ’61 at Mountain Shadows ( MountainShadows.com), chef Yulissa Acosta cooks from a place of reverence and remembrance. Born in Mexico and raised in Phoenix, her food pays homage to her mother’s cooking and the flavors of the Southwest. Working extensively with dried chiles, Acosta highlights their smoky, fruity complexity, weaving Mexican, Indigenous, and Southwest American influences throughout the menu.

A newer expression of culinary memory can be found at Indibar (TheIndibar.com), a 2026 James Beard semifinalist shining a spotlight on true tandoor cuisine. Created by Masti Hospitality, the chic, Bollywood-inspired space blends traditional Indian architecture with modern design elements and vibrant color. Chef-partner Nigel Lobo and executive chef Ajay Singh bring hyper-regional Indian cuisine to life, anchored by Singh’s mastery of the tandoor. The menu spans the flavors of the country, from Afghanimarinated chicken and herb-laced lamb chops to vindaloo-spiced ribs and deeply authentic classic recipes passed down for generations. Cocktails infused with saffron, cardamom, curry leaves, and rose add another layer of memory, transforming family traditions into sensory experiences.

The menu spans the flavors of the country, from Afghani-marinated chicken and herblaced lamb chops to vindaloo-spiced ribs and deeply authentic classic recipes passed down for generations.

Finally, nestled into the lush grounds of T. Cook’s at Royal Palms Resort and Spa ( RoyalPalmsHotel.com ), chef Lee Hillson’s accent gives him away before his food does. Born in Greenwich, London, Hillson trained across England and Europe before landing in Phoenix in 2000. Known for impeccable fish

preparations and beloved pesto dishes, his cooking blends European technique with desert sensibility, grounding the resort’s dining in comfort and charm.

Together, these chefs tell a larger story about Arizona dining. In every bite, home is never far away.

Not Your Mother’s Houseplants

At The Botanist, Find Rare and Exotic Plants

A Congo Nuclear. A tiny variegated, multicolored Gymnocalycium cactus.

These rare and unusual plants—and many more—are available at a newly opened shop in Scottsdale.

The Botanist, owned by best friends and former Chicagoans Sarah Hechtman and Stephanie Paluch, features exotic plants that you won’t find anywhere else, and a wide variety of handmade pots and planters.

Oh, but you might say, “I don’t have a green thumb. I would just kill such a special plant.”

Hechtman’s response? “We all have a green thumb!”

Though her mother was a gardener, Hechtman wasn’t interested in plants until she brought a plant back to life and became hooked. She began doing research on how to grow and nurture plants and shared her knowledge on an Instagram account called BeginnerPlanting, which she plans to keep while running the shop.

“I have made friends all over the world, and I like sharing fun plants, basic care tips, and my life in general,” she says.

To say that she is a plant enthusiast is to greatly understate the situation.

“I have more than 200 plants at my house now,” Hechtman confesses.

ARTICLE BY JUDITH SMITH

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DANIELLE MUCCILLO

Hechtman’s grandparents lived in Scottsdale for many years, and she decided to move out and join them after she earned a degree in marketing and advertising from Western Illinois University in 2007.

She and her now-husband, Nate, opened and franchised a business called EnerGreen Carpet Cleaning 10 years ago, which Hechtman helped run until she opened The Botanist along with Paluch.

The seeds for The Botanist were planted during a visit Hechtman made to Chicago to visit family. There she saw her first retail plant shop and saw one in her own future for the first time.

“I said to the owners, ‘You are living my dream. How do you make money on plants?’” she recalls.

Once she decided a plant shop could be a reality, the next step was getting Paluch to move to Scottsdale to be her partner.

In Chicago, Paluch worked in broadcast journalism and founded a dog-rescue organization, but finally, Hechtman was too persuasive.

By the time Paluch decided to move to Scottsdale and co-own the shop, she, too, had become interested in plants.

“During COVID-19 I got into plants and I learned by trial and error,” she says.

Paluch likes the exotic flora that is offered at The Botanist.

“Rare plants drew me in,” she explains. The rarest plant at the shop now is the Congo Nuclear, a very unique philodendron, and they can find a variety of other interesting plants through their sources.

The two owners are committed to supporting small businesses, such as the artists who create the pots they sell, and they plan to offer many opportunities for plant lovers—or novices—to get their hands dirty.

A back room at the shop will be the location for classes, coffee vendors, workshops, and much more.

“There will be something for everyone,” Hechtman says.

If, when you visit The Botanist, you feel like having a conversation with the plants that inhabit the shop, you may feel free to do so, the pair says. They, themselves, are guilty, they admit.

“Yes, we talk to the plants. Each plant gives off its own unique [vibe] ... and we love to connect people to the plant that speaks to [them]!”

‘More Than Simply Opening a Door’

CATHY HOTCHKISS ON REAL ESTATE, TOP HOME FEATURES, AND MORE

Cathy Hotchkiss with Cathy Hotchkiss Fine Property Group (CathyHotchkiss.com) is a well-known Realtor in Scottsdale and Paradise Valley. Prior to helping buyers and sellers with real estate transactions, she spent 22 years as an interior designer. Here, we talk to her about her unique career path, what buyers are looking for now, and her favorite places in Scottsdale.

Cathy Hotchkiss

YOUR CAREER PATH IS UNIQUE—TRANSITIONING FROM INTERIOR DESIGN TO LUXURY REAL ESTATE. WHAT INSPIRED THAT SHIFT?

I have always loved interior design and spent over 35 years building and owning my own design company. However, by 2007, the industry became increasingly challenging— products were often unavailable, backorders were lengthy, and the process grew frustrating for both my clients and me. Real estate felt like a natural transition and one that complemented my design background while offering new opportunities. I had always enjoyed visiting open houses and model homes, drawing inspiration from fresh ideas and innovative spaces, and real estate allowed me to merge that passion with my professional experience.

DOES HAVING AN INTERIOR DESIGN BACKGROUND INFLUENCE HOW YOU APPROACH REAL ESTATE?

The two professions work together seamlessly. My interior design background allows me to market homes in a way that highlights their best features when listing them for sale, while also giving buyer clients valuable insight into a home’s future potential and design possibilities.

WHAT FEATURES AND AMENITIES DO LUXURY HOME BUYERS VALUE MOST IN TODAY’S MARKET?

Open floor plans and few interior steps seem to be important with the current trend of less formal living. Homes that are updated with current finishes are more attractive, as many buyers do not have the expertise or time to complete the project themselves. Outdoor spaces for entertaining and gathering are extremely popular, and a great view is an additional plus.

IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT’S ONE UNDERESTIMATED ASPECT OF LUXURY HOME BUYING OR SELLING THAT MOST BUYERS DON’T CONSIDER—BUT SHOULD?

Working with a Realtor who is a specialist in the areas they are interested in is imperative, as these agents are familiar with current prices, recent sales, and home values in those neighborhoods. In many instances, local specialists know of homes coming available in the area that are not on the market yet, and they typically know the other agents in the area, which makes for a great working relationship during the home-buying process.

WHAT HAS BEEN THE MOST MEMORABLE OR REWARDING MOMENT OF YOUR CAREER SO FAR?

Many of my clients have become personal friends, as we spend a great deal of time together throughout the buying and selling process. There is nothing more rewarding than helping sellers move on to the next chapter of their lives, while sharing in the excitement of buyers as they discover their perfect dream home.

WHAT DO YOU BELIEVE SETS YOUR CLIENT SERVICE APART IN A COMPETITIVE LUXURY MARKET?

Being a great agent requires a tremendous amount of time, knowledge, and dedication—it’s so much more than simply opening a door. There are countless moving parts involved in creating a smooth transaction, and my goal is to handle every detail while making the process feel calm and effortless for my clients. I want my clients to feel comfortable, confident, and relaxed throughout the entire experience … leave the stress to me!

YOU’RE KNOWN FOR ACTIVE INVOLVEMENT IN LOCAL COMMITTEES AND MENTORING NEWER AGENTS. WHY IS COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT IMPORTANT TO YOU?

Being active in the local community is important in meeting future clients, as they are already familiar with your name and reputation. I meet many people who state they “know who I am”

as they have seen ads or heard of me from other clients, which makes them more comfortable and trusting with me from the start. I appreciate the opportunity to mentor newer agents in guiding them to grow, as they soon will be agents I will be working with on future transactions.

WHAT YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB:

Knowing that I assisted a client’s dream come true for their family, whether selling or buying, larger or smaller home, or a different location. It’s very rewarding in moving them to their next journey!

YOUR FAVORITE PLACES IN SCOTTSDALE?

My husband and I live in DC Ranch, so we tend to stay north. We love being members at The Country Club at DC Ranch, which is a very friendly environment with many activities, lots of hiking and walking trails, and the McDowell Mountains are beautiful. We love all types of restaurants, and we have numerous choices in this amazing area; however, we spend a lot of time at Market Street at DC Ranch, Kierland Commons, and Scottsdale Quarter, which are all excellent for shopping and eating!

THE ART WORLD ARRIVES

SCOTTSDALE

ART WEEK

RISES AS A CULTURAL FORCE

Scottsdale has never lacked for style, sunshine, or serious collectors—but with the return of Scottsdale Art Week this March, the city is firmly staking its claim as one of the most compelling art destinations in the country.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF SCOTTSDALE ART WEEK

After a headline-making debut in 2025 that drew more than 14,000 attendees, welcomed over 100 galleries from nine countries, and generated millions of dollars in art sales,  Scottsdale Art Week, presented by Scottsdale Ferrari, returns to WestWorld of Scottsdale March 19–22. The second edition promises to be bigger, bolder, and more globally ambitious, positioning itself as the largest modern and contemporary art fair in the Western United States outside of Los Angeles.

Set against Scottsdale’s signature springtime backdrop—great weather, luxury resorts, Cactus League Spring Training, and a growing base of high-networth collectors—this year’s Art Week welcomes 120 international galleries, including many returning from the inaugural year, showcasing modern, contemporary, Western, and Indigenous art.

“Our goal was to create an event that would appeal to discerning collectors, highlight the art and cultural scenes of Scottsdale and the surrounding area, and give the global arts scene a close-up look at everything this growing region has to offer,” says Trey Brennan, co-owner of Scottsdale Art Week.

In addition to galleries showing and selling works, a major component of Scottsdale Art Week is its  Cultural Programming Theatre, a purpose-built forum located within the fair that elevates the experience beyond the gallery floor. The intentionally designed space is situated at the heart of the fair at WestWorld, the venue known for hosting the world-famous Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction. The forum serves as a gathering place for thoughtful exchange, offering audiences the opportunity to engage with leading voices in art and culture while immersed in the energy of the art fair. Curated panels and conversations bring together museum directors, curators, artists, scholars, and market experts to explore the ideas shaping today’s art world, from the international contemporary market and Latinx art to photography, art and design, Western art, and Indigenous representation. Another highlight includes behind-the-scenes insights from photographer Cara Romero—named Scottsdale Art Week’s Indigenous Artist of the Year.

All tickets include access to the daily cultural programming.

Cultural partners of Scottsdale Art Week include Phoenix Art Museum, the Heard Museum, the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, ASU Art Museum, the Center for Creative Photography, and the Denver Art Museum, underscoring the fair’s commitment to education, dialogue, and institutional collaboration.

The week officially begins with the  Opening Night Vernissage on March 19, an evening benefiting Phoenix Art Museum. Guests enjoy early access to acquire works, live performances, wearable art presentations, and a slate of prestigious awards. This year’s honorees include James Ballinger, director emeritus of Phoenix Art Museum, receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award, and Francis Najafi, founder and CEO of Pivotal Group, named the inaugural Philanthropist of the Year.

As Scottsdale continues to rise as one of the nation’s fastest-growing cities for millionaires, Scottsdale Art Week reflects a broader cultural shift—one where the Southwest is no longer peripheral, but central, to the international art conversation. For collectors, curators, and cultural tastemakers alike, March in Scottsdale is quickly becoming unmissable.

ScottsdaleArtWeek.com

ARTICLE BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ

Now Playing: Sundance

There is a famed quote by American icon Robert Redford that says, “If you place a root deep enough in the ground, what blossoms will inspire others to come.”

However, this was not a line from one of his films, nor was it part of a speech during an awards show. These are the words he used to describe his vision for what would become Sundance Mountain Resort, which is today one of the most stunningly beautiful and soulful mountain destinations in North America.

Tucked into the Wasatch Mountains beneath the towering presence of Mount Timpanogos in Northern Utah, Sundance is the ideal destination for those who want adventure and escape in a space that feels so special it borders on sacred.

When Redford purchased the land in 1969, he placed strict easements on the property, permanently limiting development and ensuring the mountain would never be overbuilt. More than 70 percent of the resort’s acreage remains protected today, including the Redford Family Nature and Wildlife Preserve. Even Sundance’s lift count, terrain footprint, and village were intentionally capped to protect both the land and the experience.

SCOTTSDALE TO SUNDANCE

This year marks a meaningful new chapter for the region. First, American Airlines now has a nonstop flight from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport to Provo Airport, which is less than 30 minutes to Sundance, making it an especially accessible snow-kissed destination for Phoenicians.

Also, in January, the Inn at Sundance Mountain Resort debuted, the most significant lodging addition in the resort’s history. The 63-room, ski-in, ski-out property sits in the heart of the Resort Village, steps from the Outlaw Express lift. Two wings connected by a covered bridge over a mountain stream create a refined yet rooted sense of arrival. Guests ski directly to a dedicated valet and boot room, then retreat to spaces designed for sipping, savoring, and—for many—recovering from a perfect day playing on the mountain.

“If you place a root deep enough in the ground, what blossoms will inspire others to come,” said Robert Redford when dreaming

up Sundance Mountain

Resort.

Included with every stay is access to the Springs at Sundance, an exclusive relaxation experience reserved for lodging guests. Overlooking Mount Timpanogos, the springs feature hot tubs, a plunge pool, an infrared sauna, and a cold plunge bucket, all fed by spring water and thoughtfully maintained. Open year-round, it offers a healing and balance to active days on the mountain.

SNOW SEASON IN SUNDANCE

Winter at Sundance delivers both beauty and variety. The resort offers 540 skiable acres set within more than 4,000 acres of conserved land. Terrain ranges from approachable groomers to powder-filled bowls and aspen glades. This season—now through late April—introduces 60 acres of new terrain in the Far East area, along with a new ridgeline run boasting 1,800 vertical feet and sweeping views of the Heber and Utah valleys.

Currently, lift tickets are available in full-day, afternoon, twilight, and night-only options. Night skiing illuminates much of the mountain several evenings a week when conditions allow. There is even a certified snow sports school, which welcomes everyone from first-timers to seasoned skiers. Both terrain parks and Nordic trails round out the offerings for those seeking adventures with a little adrenaline. And for those planning ahead, there is a two-year mountain expansion in process, as well, with the Electric Horseman Express high-speed quad and additional terrain arriving for the 2026–27 season.

SAVORING SUNDANCE

And then there is the food! Sundance has collectively earned Wine Spectator Awards of Excellence, Forbes Four-Star recognition, and a Michelin Key for its culinary prowess. The Tree Room remains the crown jewel, set within an intimate space built around a living tree and highlighting Redford’s antique Native American art collection. The Foundry Grill delivers elevated comfort food inspired by frontier life, while the Owl Bar pairs its storied outlaw past with refined cocktails and live music. On the mountain, Bearclaw Cabin serves hearty fare with sweeping summit views.

SPRING AND SUMMER IN SUNDANCE

As snow begins to melt in mid-April, Sundance seamlessly shifts into late spring mode. Wildflowers begin to dot the meadows, streams rush with snowmelt, and miles of hiking and biking trails open across forestland. Scenic chairlift rides offer panoramic views of Mount Timpanogos without skis required, while guided nature walks and fly fishing invite a slower pace. Horseback riding and zip-lining come back, as well, and dining terraces reopen for long lunches and dinners framed by crisp mountain air. With cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, Sundance is an ideal escape well into May and June, as well.

SundanceResort.com

NAVIGATING WEALTH WITH NATASHA

What Questions Should I Be Asking a Financial Advisor?

If you leave meetings feeling confused or dismissed, it’s time to ask better questions—or find a better fit. Your financial advisor should be a trusted partner—someone who communicates clearly and respects your concerns.

HereAreSomeKeyQuestionsToAskAPotentialAdvisor:

1. Tell me about your qualifications and experience. Why it matters: You want someone with the right credentials and a track record of guiding clients like you.

2. How are you compensated?

Why it matters: Understanding whether they earn commissions or charge fees helps you spot potential conflicts of interest.

3. What is your process for working with clients? Why it matters: A clear, structured process shows they’re organized and focused on your long-term goals.

4.Will I work directly with you or a team? How often will we meet? Why it matters: Consistent, direct communication ensures accountability and trust.

5.Do you have experience working with clients like me (e.g., business owners, high-net-worth individuals)? Why it matters: Specialized experience matters when your financial situation is complex.

6.What systems do you use for privacy and business continuity? Why it matters: Your data should be secure and your advisor should have a plan for the unexpected.

Your advisor should offer clarity, not confusion. Transparency, trust, and real answers.

MARCH 2026

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

THROUGH MAY 31

Desert Mirror

Frank Lloyd Wright's Taliesin West

This site-responsive exhibition by interdisciplinary artist and Arizona State University professor Erika Lynne Hanson features works in weaving, sculpture, and video inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright’s principles of organic architecture and the construction method of desert masonry. Installed across five historic spaces—including Wright’s office, the garden room, tower fountain, kiva, and cabaret—the exhibition illuminates how materials, landscapes, and systems shape the ways we build and live today. FrankLloydWright.org

MARCH 5TH-8TH

The 73rd Annual Rodeo Scottsdale/ Parada Del Sol Rodeo

WestWorld of Scottsdale

Also known as the Parada Del Sol Rodeo, this PRCA-sanctioned rodeo event in the West’s Most Western Town is four days long each year. Witness champion athletes in the Saddle Bronc, Bareback Bronc, Tie-Down Roping, Barrel Racing, Steer Wrestling, Breakaway Roping, Team Roping, and Bull Riding. There are also PRCA specialty acts and a PRCA Rodeo Clown. RodeoScottsdale.com

MARCH 7TH

Persian New Year Festival

Scottsdale Waterfront

This event celebrates Nowruz, the Persian New Year. The festival offers a rich cultural experience, celebrating Persian traditions through music, dance, food, and art, while also featuring interactive activities that foster cross-cultural engagement. The Persian New Year Festival showcases the diversity and vibrancy of Persian culture, showcasing both local and international artists. PNYF.org

MARCH 14TH-15TH

Baja Culinary Fest

Scottsdale Waterfront

At Baja Culinary Fest, celebrate the rich culinary heritage of Baja California and an experience filled with the vibrant flavors of the region. Baja California’s reputation, shared among all municipalities, is a hub for Baja-Med cuisine. Chefs combine Mexican, Mediterranean, and Asian flavors to create innovative dishes that emphasize fresh, local ingredients. Food, wine, margaritas, and more. BajaCulinaryFestAZ.com CONTINUED >

SPRING SPECIAL

Spring is a time of renewal. It begins with investing in your well-being, and empowering yourself to look and feel your very best.

If you are feeling fatigued, out of balance, and less than your normally vivacious self, it may be time to have your hormones checked.

Using The SottoPelle® Method—a proprietary bio-identical hormone treatment with pellets—the experts at Tutera Medical would love to help you embrace the prime of your life!

MARCH 19TH-22ND

Scottsdale Art Week

WestWorld of Scottsdale

Scottsdale Art Week, presented by Scottsdale Ferrari, features 120 international galleries, as well as a curated series of panel discussions and conversations. Topics range from curatorial and artistic practice to collecting, photography, trends in the global contemporary art market, Latin X art, Indigenous contemporary art, the relationship between art and design, Western art, and the ever-evolving art market. ScottsdaleArtWeek.com

MARCH 21ST

We-Ko-Pa Celebrity

Wine & Spirits Festival

Scottsdale Civic Center

This festival offers an adventure of the palate, featuring a rare collection of famously named wines, spirits, and beers. Sip and savor the afternoon away at this event, which features multiple celebrated labels, expert seminars, and celebrity guests. ScottsdaleArts.org