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50 People to Watch in San Diego, 20...
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Exploring San Antonio's Food Scene
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50 People to Watch in San Diego, 20...
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Exploring San Antonio's Food Scene
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Travel
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Travel
San Diego Magazine’s Best of San Diego Party featured the top restaurants and breweries in the city. Guests sipped and sampled their way through the evening enjoying live music, DJs and entertainment. Check out the evening’s highlights and don’t miss next year’s Best of San Diego Party in August 2015. Video production by Chris Calderon […]
San Diego Magazine’s Best of San Diego Party featured the top restaurants and breweries in the city. Guests sipped and sampled their way through the evening enjoying live music, DJs and entertainment. Check out the evening’s highlights and don’t miss next year’s Best of San Diego Party in August 2015.
Video production by Chris Calderon
Best of San Diego Party 2014 Video
San Diego Magazine’s Best of San Diego Party featured the top restaurants and breweries in the city. Guests sipped and sampled their way through the evening enjoying live music, DJs and entertainment. Check out the evening’s highlights and don’t miss next year’s Best of San Diego Party in August 2015. Video production by Chris Calderon […]
San Diego Magazine’s Best of San Diego Party featured the top restaurants and breweries in the city. Guests sipped and sampled their way through the evening enjoying live music, DJs and entertainment. Check out the evening’s highlights and don’t miss next year’s Best of San Diego Party in August 2015.
Video production by Chris Calderon
Best of San Diego Party 2014 Video
See the photos that didn't make it into the magazine
File it under career highlights: The two days our team spent at Diane Powers’ ranch in East County San Diego were some of the best I’ve had in my professional life. I am a native San Diegan and grew up going to Old Town. I have loved Powers’ colorful Mexican style since I was girl. Her home lived up to the expectation, and reminded me so much of her shops at Bazaar del Mundo.
The photos were all stunning. But we had to make some cuts for space in the print edition. Here’s a behind the scenes look at some of the shots that didn’t make it into the home feature (“Casa de Powers,” published in June 2014).
Bonus: More Photos of Diane Powers’ Ranch
This is the cedar barn and stable for Power’s prized Arabian horses. They built it when they bought the property. Those leaded stain glass windows are antiques that she collected from San Francisco and Los Angeles.
Bonus: More Photos of Diane Powers’ Ranch
This is one view of the formal living room. Note all the folk art collectibles and vintage Navajo rugs. The painting of the Last Supper that hangs above the fireplace is by David Bradley. (P.S. I am obsessed with that custom Pendleton armchair.)
Bonus: More Photos of Diane Powers’ Ranch
This room serves as an office space (Powers’ desk and computer are not pictured). It houses the bulk of her Guatemalan and Mexican collectibles, everything from ceremonial masks to trees of life and so much more. Collecting is a lifelong passion of hers, and she loves organizing her things by region and theme. One of my favorite details in this room is the sofa, upholstered with a traditional dancer’s costume (the floral) and a vintage serape (the stripes).
Bonus: More Photos of Diane Powers’ Ranch
Who needs Craft Service? We ate more food on this shoot than any other shoot I’ve ever worked on. Powers personally cooked us chicken and beef tostadas, alongside chips, salsa, and guac from Casa de Pico. It was such a treat. And by the way, I love her cobalt blue Viking appliances.
Bonus: More Photos of Diane Powers’ Ranch
This is the couple’s TV room, which doubles as a place to showcase all of Powers’ ribbons and trophies. Powers and her husband, Brent Gilman, travel all over the country showing their Arabian Western Pleasure Show Horses.
Bonus: More Photos of Diane Powers’ Ranch
A peek inside the pantry. When we asked to see it, Powers said, “It looks like my store, doesn’t it?”
Bonus: More Photos of Diane Powers’ Ranch
This is an example of the dancing costume and fabric that Powers used to upholster the sofa in her office.
Bonus: More Photos of Diane Powers’ Ranch
This is the back entrance to the main house. I love the combo of red and orange here. She has the same setup by the pool. It just feels so Old Town and so her.
See the photos that didn't make it into the magazine
File it under career highlights: The two days our team spent at Diane Powers’ ranch in East County San Diego were some of the best I’ve had in my professional life. I am a native San Diegan and grew up going to Old Town. I have loved Powers’ colorful Mexican style since I was girl. Her home lived up to the expectation, and reminded me so much of her shops at Bazaar del Mundo.
The photos were all stunning. But we had to make some cuts for space in the print edition. Here’s a behind the scenes look at some of the shots that didn’t make it into the home feature (“Casa de Powers,” published in June 2014).
Bonus: More Photos of Diane Powers’ Ranch
This is the cedar barn and stable for Power’s prized Arabian horses. They built it when they bought the property. Those leaded stain glass windows are antiques that she collected from San Francisco and Los Angeles.
Bonus: More Photos of Diane Powers’ Ranch
This is one view of the formal living room. Note all the folk art collectibles and vintage Navajo rugs. The painting of the Last Supper that hangs above the fireplace is by David Bradley. (P.S. I am obsessed with that custom Pendleton armchair.)
Bonus: More Photos of Diane Powers’ Ranch
This room serves as an office space (Powers’ desk and computer are not pictured). It houses the bulk of her Guatemalan and Mexican collectibles, everything from ceremonial masks to trees of life and so much more. Collecting is a lifelong passion of hers, and she loves organizing her things by region and theme. One of my favorite details in this room is the sofa, upholstered with a traditional dancer’s costume (the floral) and a vintage serape (the stripes).
Bonus: More Photos of Diane Powers’ Ranch
Who needs Craft Service? We ate more food on this shoot than any other shoot I’ve ever worked on. Powers personally cooked us chicken and beef tostadas, alongside chips, salsa, and guac from Casa de Pico. It was such a treat. And by the way, I love her cobalt blue Viking appliances.
Bonus: More Photos of Diane Powers’ Ranch
This is the couple’s TV room, which doubles as a place to showcase all of Powers’ ribbons and trophies. Powers and her husband, Brent Gilman, travel all over the country showing their Arabian Western Pleasure Show Horses.
Bonus: More Photos of Diane Powers’ Ranch
A peek inside the pantry. When we asked to see it, Powers said, “It looks like my store, doesn’t it?”
Bonus: More Photos of Diane Powers’ Ranch
This is an example of the dancing costume and fabric that Powers used to upholster the sofa in her office.
Bonus: More Photos of Diane Powers’ Ranch
This is the back entrance to the main house. I love the combo of red and orange here. She has the same setup by the pool. It just feels so Old Town and so her.
Behind every beautiful space is a thoughtful process, and ASID San Diego is helping homeowners understand the value of professional design.
A perfectly designed home rarely happens by accident. Those kitchens that feel effortless and rooms that seem to tell a story the second you walk in? They’re usually the work of someone who knows exactly what they’re doing.
It’s knowing which ideas will actually work, which materials will hold up over time, and how to turn a collection of choices into a space that feels intentional. That’s where a professional interior designer comes in.
For the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) California San Diego Chapter, the goal is to help people see interior design as more than just the finished look. Behind every well-designed space is a process built on technical expertise. Designers are educated in everything from professional software and construction details to building codes, space planning, materials, and functionality.
“People don’t always realize how much goes on behind the scenes,” Kirsten Recce , current president of the ASID California San Diego Chapter, says. “Our designers are not just doing furniture placement and color selection and picking out new fluffy pillows. That’s not what they’re trained for.”
ASID members bring formal education, continued learning, and industry knowledge to their projects, helping create spaces that are not only beautiful, but designed to work. A paint color that changes completely depending on the lighting. A material that looks beautiful in a showroom but doesn’t make sense for everyday life. A layout that photographs well but doesn’t function for the people living there. These are the details where professional guidance can make all the difference.
Still, one of the biggest misconceptions about hiring an interior designer is that it’s reserved for massive renovations, luxury homes, or people who already know exactly what they want. The process can feel intimidating. Where do you begin? Is a designer worth the investment? What if you only need help with one room?
ASID’s answer: start with one hour.
ASID’s Spruce Up events break down one of the biggest barriers between homeowners and professional design: knowing where to begin. Held twice a year, the community program gives homeowners the chance to work directly with an ASID designer through a one-hour, $125 consultation in their own home. Whether you’re looking for advice on furniture placement, window treatments, kitchen and bath updates, remodeling ideas, vacation rentals, color selections or something else entirely, the upcoming September 2026 event offers an approachable way to get expert guidance before committing to a full project. Signups are open through Sept. 7, with consultations taking place Sept. 21 through Oct. 31. Proceeds benefit ASID San Diego’s educational and community programs. Register here!
“It’s a great opportunity for people who are in that exploratory phase,” Recce says. “Maybe they’re not sure they want to hire an interior designer yet, or they think it sounds daunting or expensive. This gives them a chance to discover what working with a designer is actually like.”
Design is personal. A good designer isn’t just creating a beautiful room; they’re helping create a space that fits the way someone lives.
“We’re a resource to all of San Diego County,” Recce says. “It doesn’t cost anything to pick up the phone and call and ask. We’ll answer.”
Follow ASID San Diego on Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook for updates on upcoming events, or connect with the chapter directly at [email protected] or 619-548-8847.
Barbershop / Mister Brown’s If your man rolls his eyes every time you ask him to get a haircut, then this is the answer to your prayers. The old-fashioned barbershop-cum-men’s social club is a place where he can get a hot shave, play pool, and watch sports with the boys. The shop offers a variety […]
If your man rolls his eyes every time you ask him to get a haircut, then this is the answer to your prayers. The old-fashioned barbershop-cum-men’s social club is a place where he can get a hot shave, play pool, and watch sports with the boys. The shop offers a variety of trims and cuts, plus top-quality take-home products. He’ll leave groomed and gorgeous, and perhaps, a little more willing to schedule a follow-up.
3064 University Avenue, North Park
This nail boutique lured us in with its comfy baroque-style chairs and hygienic tubs of water (nary a questionable massage chair in sight), then won us over with its great color selection (you can use gel-like polishes for no extra charge), friendly technicians, cute purple-and-white décor, and pedicure that lasted for a full month after the appointment.
5733 La Jolla Boulevard, La Jolla
The recently revamped spa menu at the posh L’Auberge Del Mar offers ocean-themed services like the Sea Breeze Facial and the Seaweed Scrub, which will leave your skin super-soft and moisturized. Go for the relaxation; stay for a lite lunch on the deck. Or make a day of it, and take a scenic walk through downtown Del Mar.
1540 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar
We like the look of this place, from the shabby-chic décor to the bright floor-to-ceiling windows. With more than 11 years of experience, owner Jessica Mena specializes in a variety of hair services. Before or after your appointment, browse the boutique that features local jewelry designers and budget-friendly tops.
1357 Rosecrans Street, Point Loma
Katherine Annie Finch is a pro when it comes to beauty. The former Estée Lauder exec recently launched Katherine Cosmetics. Here, she combines her love of makeup with a full day of fitness and nutrition at the luxe Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa. Sign us up!
katherinecosmetics.com
This treatment makes you look younger and more rested. Ocean Pearl Spa at the Sheraton Carlsbad Resort is one of the few spas on the West Coast to offer Valmont, a luxe Swiss skincare line designed to combat the effects of aging. The Vitality of the Glaciers service includes a collagen mask and very relaxing neck and shoulder massage ($215 for 60 minutes). Ready, set, rewind the years!
5480 Grand Pacific Drive, Carlsbad
437 South Highway 101, Solana Beach
4026 Hawk Street, Mission Hills
9339 Genesee Avenue, UTC Area
Best of San Diego: Beauty
Mister Brown’s
Barbershop / Mister Brown’s If your man rolls his eyes every time you ask him to get a haircut, then this is the answer to your prayers. The old-fashioned barbershop-cum-men’s social club is a place where he can get a hot shave, play pool, and watch sports with the boys. The shop offers a variety […]
If your man rolls his eyes every time you ask him to get a haircut, then this is the answer to your prayers. The old-fashioned barbershop-cum-men’s social club is a place where he can get a hot shave, play pool, and watch sports with the boys. The shop offers a variety of trims and cuts, plus top-quality take-home products. He’ll leave groomed and gorgeous, and perhaps, a little more willing to schedule a follow-up.
3064 University Avenue, North Park
This nail boutique lured us in with its comfy baroque-style chairs and hygienic tubs of water (nary a questionable massage chair in sight), then won us over with its great color selection (you can use gel-like polishes for no extra charge), friendly technicians, cute purple-and-white décor, and pedicure that lasted for a full month after the appointment.
5733 La Jolla Boulevard, La Jolla
The recently revamped spa menu at the posh L’Auberge Del Mar offers ocean-themed services like the Sea Breeze Facial and the Seaweed Scrub, which will leave your skin super-soft and moisturized. Go for the relaxation; stay for a lite lunch on the deck. Or make a day of it, and take a scenic walk through downtown Del Mar.
1540 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar
We like the look of this place, from the shabby-chic décor to the bright floor-to-ceiling windows. With more than 11 years of experience, owner Jessica Mena specializes in a variety of hair services. Before or after your appointment, browse the boutique that features local jewelry designers and budget-friendly tops.
1357 Rosecrans Street, Point Loma
Katherine Annie Finch is a pro when it comes to beauty. The former Estée Lauder exec recently launched Katherine Cosmetics. Here, she combines her love of makeup with a full day of fitness and nutrition at the luxe Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa. Sign us up!
katherinecosmetics.com
This treatment makes you look younger and more rested. Ocean Pearl Spa at the Sheraton Carlsbad Resort is one of the few spas on the West Coast to offer Valmont, a luxe Swiss skincare line designed to combat the effects of aging. The Vitality of the Glaciers service includes a collagen mask and very relaxing neck and shoulder massage ($215 for 60 minutes). Ready, set, rewind the years!
5480 Grand Pacific Drive, Carlsbad
437 South Highway 101, Solana Beach
4026 Hawk Street, Mission Hills
9339 Genesee Avenue, UTC Area
Best of San Diego: Beauty
Mister Brown’s
Laika Nur, MD, takes her love of volleyball from the court to the clinic as team physician for the San Diego Mojo
Growing up, Laika Nur, MD, Scripps Clinic sports medicine specialist, loved watching beach volleyball when the Association of Volleyball Professionals tour came to her hometown of Chicago. A talented volleyball player herself, she remembers sitting in the stands all day, and once, even got a couple autographs. Years later, Dr. Nur was attending a professional event focused on women’s sports, and the discussion turned to a new professional women’s volleyball league. The general manager and coaching staff for San Diego’s team, the Mojo, happened to be in attendance, and Dr. Nur took the opportunity to ask them if they needed a team doctor. Flash forward to the Mojo’s inaugural 2024 season, when Dr. Nur officially became the team physician. Click here to read more about Dr. Nur and how she incorporates lessons she learned on the court into her practice.
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