The Del Mar Wine + Food Festival returns September 10–14, 2025, and this year it’s dialing up the excitement with San Diego Magazine’s new Creator Correspondent Program. The new program features a partnership between some of SoCal’s and Baja’s top influencers offering an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at its weeklong itinerary of events, all in the name of raising funds for Feeding San Diego.
From the high-energy Opening Day party hosted by San Diego FC to the star-studded celebrity pickleball tournament hosted by Drew Brees and the Grand Tasting at Surf Sports Park—each creator will bring a unique perspective to the fest.
This program isn’t just about content creation. It’s about celebrating the voices that help shape how we experience San Diego and Baja. Each correspondent has, in their own way, contributed to telling the story of this region through food, culture, family, or lifestyle. By bringing their perspectives to the festival, they’re adding new chapters to the ongoing story of this city, weaving their voices into the larger narrative of what makes San Diego…well, San Diego.
These local influencers will be sharing behind-the-scenes looks and special discounts on the events they’re covering during the festival. Follow San Diego Magazine (@sandiegomag) on Instagram for a front-row seat to all the food festival action and follow our inaugural class of correspondents for an inside look at some of the incredible events happening.
This year’s lineup features local food experts like SD Foodies, Bachelor Nation’s Aaron Clancy, Danielle Schaffer of @citygirlgonemom, and more.
And now, to announce the inaugural correspondents:
- Chris Stone (@sdfoodies)
- Bachelor Nation’s Aaron Clancy (@aaronclancy)
- Danielle Schaffer (@citygirlgonemom)
- Emily Sanchez (@classycasita)
- Paola Vázquez (@viviendolabaja)
Learn more about each creator, which events they’re spotlighting, and how to follow their journey during the Del Mar Wine + Food Festival below.
San Diego Mag’s 2025 Creator Correspondents at the Del Mar Wine + Food Festival
Chris Stone (@SDFoodies)
Event: Opening Day Party Hosted by San Diego FC at Monarch Ocean Pub
A foodie at heart, you can find me at the bar of the latest and greatest restaurant in San Diego enjoying a glass of wine and contemplating my next feature on SDFoodies. Started in 2019 and grown to over 500K followers, @SDFoodies is one of San Diego’s premier social media accounts focusing on all things amazing in America’s Finest City. When I’m not eating and filming, you can find me walking the farmers market on the hunt for fresh oysters and heirloom tomatoes, hiking the local mountains, taking photos, and playing with my pup, Callie.
What inspired you to create SD Foodies?
SD Foodies really started during Covid out of boredom, but it was the perfect storm of timing and my background, having worked in the food and drink industry my whole life. I had professional photography and videography experience, Instagram started pushing Reels, and I suddenly had the time to create. What keeps me going now is the storytelling side—highlighting spots and people who might otherwise not get coverage.
How do you choose which restaurants to cover? Any green or red flags you look out for?
Internally I have a list of red flags I see in restaurants, and it includes neon signs and other gimmicks like that. I think creating items on the menu that are solely for Instagram are a poor representation of your restaurant. Laminated menus. Wine glasses that have a super thick rim—that just gives me the ick. If I see that, I’m like, “Oh God, I’m probably gonna get a bad glass of wine right now, aren’t I?”
Green flags include calling out the farmers or producers on their menu. If I don’t see a Cisco truck in their parking lot, sorry, Cisco. Any sort of local seafood on the menu. I think those are all green flags for sure.
What’s your favorite part of San Diego’s food and drink scene?
The diversity of the neighborhoods and communities. Each one has its own distinct culture—City Heights feels completely different from Normal Heights, for example. They both have their own feeling and identity, and I really love that.
What are you most excited to experience at this year’s Del Mar Wine + Food Festival?
We’ve been every year, and it’s always the festival we come back saying it was the best one—great chefs, the best wine, and no gimmicks. This year, I’m especially looking forward to Rosemarie’s Burgers, anything from chef Brad [Wise] and the Trust Restaurant Group, and Robert Green Vineyards. It’s always such a standout experience.
Emily Paloma Sanchez (@ClassyCasita)
Event: Game Changers Dinner at Amaya at the Fairmont Grand Del Mar
Emily Sanchez is a San Diego based entrepreneur, content creator, and community builder. She is the founder of Classy Casita, a lifestyle brand that highlights home and plant decor, and Happy Girl Club, a growing women’s social club that fosters connection and empowerment. Originally from Los Angeles, Emily has built her life and businesses in San Diego, where she loves being involved in the community and creating spaces for connection.
What inspires you about Classy Casita?
I think, honestly, it’s been really fun to just share my experiences with people—whether that’s when I’m out traveling or just day-to-day life in San Diego. A lot of girls would message me saying they wished they could join me and my friends, so I wanted to create something that allowed women to connect. That’s how Happy Girl Club came about. For me, it’s not just about posting, it’s about actually connecting with people. That’s what inspires me, knowing somebody is going to take something away from the content one way or another.
What’s next for the Happy Girl Club?
We host everything from sewing workshops with Sew Loka and flower arranging with local florists in addition to wellness classes, beach picnics, even pickleball games. The idea is to create a mix so there’s something for everyone, while also collaborating with local businesses and artists. Right now, I’m working on expanding through an ambassador program—we already have women hosting in San Diego, Orange County, and LA. The dream is to grow Happy Girl Club to more cities across California, and eventually nationwide.
What’s your favorite part of San Diego’s food and drink scene?
I love that there’s always something new popping up here, from restaurants to bars, and I never feel bored. I love going to baseball games, trying new spots, and just having so many events and activities happening all the time. San Diego really feels like the perfect place to enjoy food, drinks, and experiences.
What are you most excited to experience at this year’s Del Mar Wine + Food Festival?
I haven’t attended before, so I’m really excited this year. Looking at the talent alone, it’s going to be amazing. I love that Guy Fieri will be there—I actually went to Shawarma Guys after seeing his Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives episode, and now it’s one of my favorite spots. I’m also excited to see Claudia Sandoval again, and Mark Murphy, too. And the Game Changers event with Alex Morgan really aligns with what I do through Happy Girl Club, bringing women together. It’s just such a great opportunity to connect and learn from all these amazing women.
Aaron Clancy (@AaronrClancy)
Event: CluckFest After Party
Aaron Clancy is a TV personality from The Bachelorette and Bachelor in Paradise. Born and raised in Southern California, he now lives in San Diego and is known for his humor, energy, and ability to connect with people on and off screen.
What inspired you to go on The Bachelorette in 2021?
When Covid hit, life really switched up. I was working for an insurance company out of my bedroom, and I just developed this mindset of, “Why not try something really different?” That’s what led me to go on TV and explore creating. I never thought about reality TV or content before, but once I tried it, it opened up a new world for me.
What’s your favorite part of San Diego’s food and drink scene?
San Diego is so close to Mexico, so I always say Mexican food for sure. I love an upscale spot like Javier’s—it’s honestly my favorite restaurant right now. Really good ceviche or aguachile, something fresh like that, I just really enjoy.
What’s your ideal first date in San Diego?
My ideal first date—I think if I’m going fancy, I’d say Javier’s, or if it’s really fancy, Island Prime. But honestly, I’m a big fan of keeping the first date casual—like going to TapRoom, grabbing a couple drinks somewhere with a view of the water. I’d rather save the fancier second date […] and by the third date, I’d make it more fun—OB Noodle House or something like that.
What are you most excited to experience at this year’s Del Mar Wine + Food Festival?
I went to the Del Mar Wine + Food Festival last year and really enjoyed it—it was a ton of fun, with really good drinks and food. I’m planning on going to as much as I can this year. Honestly, I didn’t have a bad bite last time, so I’m excited to dive in again.
Paola Vázquez (@ViviendoLaBaja)
Event: Game Changers Dinner at Amaya at the Fairmont Grand Del Mar & Grand Tasting
Born in San Diego, raised in Tijuana, Paola is a 35-year-old lawyer and the creative mind behind @viviendolabaja, a platform dedicated to recommending unique gastronomic experiences, boutique stays, adventures, and more across Baja California, California, and the world. She combines her professional background with her love for storytelling and travel, inspiring her audience to discover hidden gems, enjoy authentic local flavors, and embrace unforgettable experiences both close to home and in remarkable destinations worldwide.
Nacida en San Diego y criada en Tijuana, Paola es una abogada de 35 años y la mente creativa detrás de @viviendolabaja, una plataforma dedicada a recomendar experiencias únicas de comida, hospedajes boutique, aventuras y más en Baja California, California y el mundo. Combinando su formación profesional con su pasión por viajar y contar historias, Paola inspira a su audiencia a descubrir joyas ocultas, disfrutar de sabores locales auténticos y vivir experiencias inolvidables tanto cerca de casa como en destinos extraordinarios alrededor del mundo
What do you love about creating content for Viviendo La Baja?
I like creating organic content. I’ve been creating content for Viviendo La Baja for the last four years giving recommendations for restaurants and activities in Baja, California, and around the world. I say things like they are and don’t get paid to travel to the destinations featured on my page. I do extensive research and make an effort to explore new places, especially ones with great food and great history. I don’t look for “Instagrammable” spots made for photo-ops and instead look for unique places with more meaningful things to do.
¿Qué es lo que más te gusta de crear contenido para Viviendo La Baja?
Me gusta crear contenido orgánico. He estado creando contenido para Viviendo La Baja durante los últimos cuatro años, recomendando restaurantes y actividades en Baja, California y alrededor del mundo. Soy honesta sobre las experiencias y no recibo pago por viajar a los destinos que presento en mi página. Hago una investigación extensa y me esfuerzo por explorar nuevos lugares, especialmente aquellos con buena comida y gran historia. No busco lugares “instagrameables” hechos solo para fotos, sino lugares únicos con cosas más significativas que hacer.
What are some underrated places to visit in Mexico that visitors might overlook?
Baja is a large region, and many people head to Cabo, which can be very expensive.There are better places to see in Baja like La Paz or Loreto which is a hidden gem. There’s also a place in Baja Norte called Bahía de los Ángeles where there’s a lot of sport fishing and you can visit the beautiful nearby islands. It’s a very small town, but it’s beautiful. Those are my favorite underrated spots in Baja, but La Paz is starting to become more popular.
¿Cuáles son algunos destinos poco conocidos en México que los visitantes podrían pasar por alto?
Baja es una región muy grande, y muchas personas van directo a Cabo, que puede ser muy caro. Hay mejores lugares para visitar en Baja como La Paz o Loreto, que es una joya escondida. También hay un lugar en Baja Norte llamado Bahía de los Ángeles, donde se practica mucho la pesca deportiva y puedes visitar las hermosas islas cercanas. Es un pueblo muy pequeño, pero muy hermoso. Esos son mis lugares subestimados favoritos en Baja, aunque La Paz está empezando a ganar popularidad.
What’s your favorite part of Baja’s food and drink scene?
The gastronomic experience in Baja has brought the region into international prominence especially since Michelin released its first guide to Mexico last year. Food has been a big driver of tourism and is bringing more international visitors to the Baja region lately, especially in Valle de Guadalupe—which is like a small Napa Valley for us in Ensenada. It was one of the few places in Baja people could safely visit during the pandemic which helped it become such a popular destination. The Valle de Guadalupe’s wine region has grown a lot in the last 20 years.
¿Cuál es tu parte favorita de la escena gastronómica y de bebidas en Baja?
La experiencia gastronómica en Baja ha llevado a la región a una prominencia internacional, especialmente desde que Michelin lanzó su primera guía de México el año pasado. La comida ha sido un gran motor del turismo y últimamente está trayendo a más visitantes internacionales a la región de Baja, especialmente al Valle de Guadalupe—que es como un pequeño Napa Valley para nosotros en Ensenada. Fue uno de los pocos lugares en Baja que la gente podía visitar con seguridad durante la pandemia, lo cual ayudó a que se convirtiera en un destino tan popular. La región vitivinícola del Valle de Guadalupe ha experimentado un notable crecimiento en los últimos 20 años.
What are you most excited to experience at this year’s Del Mar Wine + Food Festival?
I haven’t been to the Del Mar Wine + Food Festival before and am really excited to attend. One of my dearest friends, chef Adria Marina will be hosting the Game Changers dinner and I absolutely love her food and am excited to support her. She was a judge for MasterChef in Colombia for three seasons and she’s a famous chef here in Mexico. Previously, she got her start cooking with one of Mexico’s first Michelin Star chefs, Javier Plascencia, and I absolutely love her restaurant, Georgina.
¿Qué es lo que más te emociona experimentar en el Del Mar Wine + Food Festival de este año?
Nunca he ido al Del Mar Wine + Food Festival y estoy muy emocionada de asistir. Una de mis amigas más queridas, la chef Adria Marina, será la anfitriona de la cena Game Changers, y me fascina su comida, por lo que estoy emocionada de apoyarla. Ella fue jueza de MasterChef en Colombia durante tres temporadas y es una chef muy reconocida aquí en México. Anteriormente, comenzó cocinando con uno de los primeros chefs con estrella Michelin en México, Javier Plascencia, y me encanta su restaurante, Georgina.
Dani Lucia Schaffer (@CityGirlGoneMom)
Event: Celebrity Pickelball Hosted by Drew Brees
Danielle Schaffer, known as CityGirlGoneMom, is a NYC-born, San Diego-based creator and mother of four who built a 10M+ community by sharing raw, relatable stories of family, resilience, and joy. From parenting humor to red-carpet moments with her son Brody, she blends grit, glamour, and heart into content that inspires connection and authenticity.
What do you love about City Girl Gone Mom ?
I’ve always documented my children. I mean, I gave birth with a camera in my hand. I’m so proud of my kids, and it’s a passion of mine to share their lives. But it’s also about using my platform for purpose. When my brother died of an accidental overdose, I partnered with Narcan to help raise awareness. Someone wrote me saying they were going to rehab instead of using after hearing my story and that gave me the reason to keep going. So for me, it’s both documenting the beautiful everyday moments and sharing the real things that might help someone else.
What are your favorite things to do in San Diego with family?
If you have little ones, I really love the New Children’s Museum downtown. I love going to Coronado to ride bikes. I love going to see the seals in La Jolla and finding hidden pathways to the beach that few people know about. I also really love downtown, because that’s the city in me, and then I love Encinitas, of course. Just walking up the 101 is fantastic.
What’s your favorite part of San Diego’s food and drink scene?
There are so many perks; I love living by the ocean, I love the hills, the mountains, the people are really kind and sweet. It just seems like a right fit for our family and raising kids. And we are definite foodies around here—we love a good restaurant. One of my favorites is Lucrezia. The management there is divine. I can’t go there without eating mussels, my favorite dish on the menu.
What are you most excited to experience at this year’s Del Mar Wine + Food Festival?
The epic flavor lineup from top chefs and restaurants. Chefs like Brian Malarkey, Jackson Kalb, and Zuliya Khawaja. Looking forward to a festival that basically feels like [San Diego’s] lifestyle with a dynamic roster and immersive, themed experiences.
