AnnChafoulias

The holidays were a busy and bustling time of year. And for many of us, it’s been simply non-stop from the moment December 1st came along. However, January is a time to relax, rejuvenate, and set some goals for the next 12 months. There is no better place to do this than in Phoenix! It’s simply a gorgeous city all year round, but particularly in the cooler months. This city is full of relaxing places to simply unwind and take care of yourself, which we will explore in this blog. 

Practice Yoga

Yoga is such a fantastic way to unwind and decompress. Whether you are a beginner, intermediate, or seasoned professional, you will find the perfect class for you at Yoga Pura! The space at Yoga Pura is simply beautiful. The studio offers a range of diverse classes with really highly skilled, experienced, and friendly staff. It’s centrally located and easily accessible for anyone wanting to practice their skills and mindfulness.

Have a Spa Day

Who doesn’t love a good spa day? When I am feeling rundown, one of the best ways that I choose to practice self-care is with a spa day. My favorite spa is Sanctuary.  It’s a next-level luxury and offers discounts for locals! I would highly recommend going to check it out if you are looking to find some extra zen time. 

Get Outside

The outside is simply a beautiful way to rejuvenate yourself all year round. However, in winter, I think it’s extra special. With places like the Botanical Gardens waiting to be explored, the fresh Phoenix air is never more welcoming than in the middle of winter, particularly for this mid-west girl! Try and take some time out of your day to be outside and take in the sights, the sounds, and the fresh air of the city – your body, mind, and skin will thank you for it. 

Hike a Trail 

There are so many gorgeous trails around Phoenix that I recommend you go and explore! Camelback Mountain is located just 20 minutes from downtown Phoenix and is named so because of its unique formation; Camelback gets its name from its two rock formations that resemble the head and back of a kneeling camel. It’s fascinating to see and one that simply blows your mind! Another beautiful hike is the Piestewa Peak Trailhead. It’s the most beautiful spot and is the second-highest point in the Phoenix Mountains.

Phoenix is a great place to relax and rejuvenate after a busy holiday season. While many of us made the most of it during the festive period, now is a time where most people want to unwind and decompress after the month of excitement. Whether you opt for a spa day, getting outside and up high, or doing some relaxing yoga at a local studio, Phoenix has it all. 

Winter is by far the best season here in Phoenix, Arizona! It’s simply magical, with cooler days and nights, and crystal clear blue skies every day. Plus, for someone like me who is from the midwest, I really do appreciate the lower temperatures! 

Winter is when I really take the time to explore Phoenix and the surrounding suburbs – I do so many things that I don’t always get to do in the summer heat, like stay outside in midday, walk to new places, and have so much fun! That being said, while you can explore Phoenix by yourself every day of the year, the city does put on some magical events in winter, and there are seasonal activities too. This blog is all about things you can do in Phoenix, Arizona this winter. 

Las Noches De Las Luminarias

What a magical event! Las Noches De Las Luminarias takes place in the desert botanical garden, and it is truly an iconic event. It’s been going strong for 44 years, and thousands of people visit the gardens to see them shine bright and lit up in the festive season! While you’re here, you’ll enjoy live music, beautiful native flora, and thousands of dazzling hand-lit luminarias at the Garden. This year is extra special, as the garden also will have Chihuly in the Desert.

You can attend the Las Noches De Las Luminarias on selected dates throughout December! Click here for more details.

Winter with Zoolights

If the zoo wasn’t a fun enough place throughout the year, during winter it goes to new heights! As soon as the sun sets, the Phoenix Zoo park will light up! This is one of the largest holiday lighting events in the Southwest. Plus, as you wander through, you’ll enjoy not only millions of lights and plenty of displays, but also live performances, too! It’s truly fantastic, and I especially recommend it for families. 

Santa on Camelback

This is my favorite holiday tradition here in Phoenix! Each year John Cressey, or Camelback Santa greets hundreds of climbers and keeps the festive spirit alive! This is such a fun tradition and one that I personally love! He actually gave an interview to AZ Central last year: “I enjoy bringing a smile to people’s faces and helping them get in the Christmas spirit,” Cressey said. “It’s a fun and happy tradition that gets people in the Christmas spirit.” Ah! While he wasn’t there last year for obvious health reasons, I certainly hope he makes an appearance this year!

Winter Markets at Phoestivus

Now, if you know me, you know I love my farmers’ markets! This is SUCH an exciting two-day event that’s been happening yearly since 2009. Here is your chance to not only shop local but support an amazing cause and get some fabulous holiday gifts! It’s happening on December 15th and 16th from 5-10 PM. I’ll see you there! 

Here are all the details. 

So, if you are ready to make the most of winter in Phoenix, now’s your chance! There’s always something going on in this magical city.

Phoenix is an incredible place to spend time all year round, but especially in fall. It is still beautiful and warm but lacks the intensity of the summer sun. This makes it the perfect time to go out and explore during all the hours of the day! Take some time out in the busy workday to explore Phoenix, or simply plan your weekends out to be spectacular. However you choose to do it, make sure that this fall, you’re in Phoenix. 

Head to the Farmer’s Market

As you probably know by now, I love visiting the farmer’s market! In fact, sometimes it seems like my weekend isn’t complete without some time dedicated to exploring what the markets have to offer. I love to buy my produce from there, chat with other locals, as well as score some delicious breakfasts! It’s simply spectacular. If you want to start your weekend days off right, try out one of the many farmer’s markets in Phoenix, like Downtown Farmer’s Market, Uptown Farmer’s Market, or Mesa Farmer’s Market and Flea! You’ll have the best time. 

Go For a Picnic in the Park

Now’s the time to get out and about in Phoenix! Unlike so many other states, Phoenix is still dazzlingly warm in fall. So, let’s get outside and make the most of the sunshine and fresh air with picnics in the park. Grab your best girlfriends and head to one of the many lush green scapes here in the city – Papago, Encanto, or Civic Space Park are all fantastic choices. 

Head to the Phoenix Art Museum

The Phoenix Art Museum is finally back and I am so happy! After months of the shutdown, it’s time to showcase all the glorious art that Phoenix has to offer. It’s the largest art museum in the Southwest, which is an impressive feat all in itself. I am so excited to check out the immersive “You Who are Getting Obliterated in the Dancing Swarm of Fireflies”. It looks incredible, and you can adopt a firefly from the installation! Let me know if you go check it out – and if installations aren’t your thing, they also have collections featuring Picasso and Georgia O’Keeffe! Simply outstanding. 

Go to the Gardens

Phoenix is home to some incredible outdoor spaces. Sadly, because of the summer heat, we tend to ignore the gorgeous open spaces that Phoenix city has to offer! One of these magical places is the Desert Botanical Garden, which is full of 485 rare and endangered species. Marvel at the plants you discover as you stroll through. They also have fantastic events throughout the year, so go and see what’s happening this fall! Or, head to the Japanese Friendship Garden and find the needed peace and tranquility as a break from your busy workday! 

Phoenix is a magical city all year round, but I find it especially so during the fall. This is a time to get outside and enjoy all that Phoenix has to offer. With many events on during these cooler months too, you’ll have incredible experiences no matter how you choose to spend your days!

Phoenix truly comes alive in fall – and our festivals prove it. The weather is cooler, but it is still so beautiful and sunny! The perfect combination for a festival. I am so excited to get out and about this fall, and I can’t wait to head to one of these events! For this blog, I have picked out my top five festivals this October in Phoenix. But, if you want a full list, head to Visit Phoenix! They provide SO much information on each festival. 

Arizona State Fair

The Arizona State Fair is open all month long in October! This fair is family-friendly and such great fun. It’s been running for over a century and is a highlight in the calendar for so many families in Phoenix! This festival is filled with fun carnival rides, delicious food, and plenty of entertainment! It’s the perfect date night, for family, for friends, or any event you like! 

Desperado LGBTQ+ Film and Arts Festival 

This virtual festival takes place between October 22nd and 31st. It showcases LGBTQ films that are related to the experiences of the LGBTQ community. I think this festival is the perfect combination of enjoyable, educational, enlightening, and so much more. 

Stella Artois Polo Classic

Described as the “best polo event in the world”, the Stella Artois Polo Classic is an exciting event for everyone involved! It takes place on October 23rd and delights thousands of horse fans every year. Expect to see incredible sport, horses, live performances, and incredible food, drink, and fashion!

Phoenix Greek Festival

This fantastic festival happens on October 8-10. It’s a great opportunity to share in the rich history, culture, and culinary delights of Greece. You can try the delicious Greek food, purchase some authentically designed and curated Greek items, from jewelry to artwork! You can also expect fantastic entertainment and performances all weekend. It’ll be amazing!

Mikiztli Dia de los Muertos Phoenix Festival

This annual festival takes place on October 24th! Guests will enjoy live performances, music and dance, activities, and the most amazing candlelight procession. This festival aims to keep families connected to their cultural heritage and traditions. 

Festivals are so fun to visit, whether you’re with family or friends! Have a night out that is different from your normal kind and enjoy all that Phoenix has to offer. 

The Arizona real estate market is booming. Do you know what your home is worth?

You only need to look at a few local websites to see that our state is SO popular at the moment, as people move from California to a more affordable housing climate. In short: more people are moving here, and the housing market is hot. If you’re thinking about selling your home, here are six steps to help attract buyers and sell at a higher price.

Clean Up Your Yard
Think of your front yard as your buyer’s first impression. This will be the first area of your home that potential buyers see, so it needs to make a mark!

I would recommend that you make sure your hedges are trimmed and your lawn is cut. If your lawn looks like it’s well maintained, potential buyers will assume that the home is also well cared for, and it will automatically increase their interest

Brighten Those Walls Inside Your Home
A touch-up of paint on your interior walls will do wonders to the sellability of your home.

A fresh coat will remove the scuffs and dirt marks, and brighten up the walls. Consider covering any abnormally bright or bold colors with a neutral. A few hundred dollars in paint may increase your home worth more than you think.

Properly Stage your Home Living Areas
Think about your kitchen, main bathrooms, and living rooms.

Homebuyers are often looking to invest in something for their family. They want to see how liveable your home is! Don’t be overwhelmed, these can be simple changes. Add some plants, arrange pillows and rugs to make an inviting space. Oh, and get rid of clutter.

Clean Your Home
There’s no faster turn-off than grime and gunk in a bathroom or kitchen!

Take the time to do some deep cleaning and make all your fixtures sparkle. If you don’t have time to put toward these tasks, then hire them out to a professional. It’ll be worth it.

Light It Up
This one may seem simple, but it works. Replace your lightbulbs!

Bright, white light can make your home seem more spacious and clean. This is especially great if your home isn’t naturally well lit – instead, let’s create that bright vibe artificially.

Don’t Forget The Front Door
How does your front door look? What about your garage door?

It might be wise to either replace or have these professionally painted before your home goes on the market. That kind of curb appeal could positively impact your sellability and your home’s overall value. 

Thinking about selling your home? These tips are just scratching the surface when it comes to increasing your curb appeal and boosting the value of your home. If you have more questions about how to make wise investments in your home as you prepare to sell, get in touch! I’d be happy to help!

Mid-Century Modern is the style of the moment in interior design. As you know, I love interior design. It’s a real pastime of mine, and I love to share my passions with you! Originally explored from 1933 to 1965; Mid-Century Modern included architecture as well as industrial, interior, and graphic design. Now, however, it’s a retro style that’s here to stay, and here are some tips to incorporate it in your home. 

Less is More in Mid-Century Modern
Subtlety makes this design aesthetic a timeless trend. 

You can easily incorporate subtlety in your design by juxtaposing bold pieces with understated brilliance. Find a statement piece that screams subtlety, and it’ll take center stage amid your other furnishings. 

Keep it Simple
Natural tones are key here. Beige, olive greens, and browns all mix together to create magic. Similarly, nude will never go out of style, and all the hues will complement each other. When organizing colors, use straight, clean lines. 

In fact, Mid-Century Modern furniture is characterized by its simplicity. Your use of color palette is key to getting this trend right. 

Use Light
Light is magical. This is one element in the trend that you CAN go bold with!  

Think curvy, unusual bases, with narrow light shades. Fleamarkets are your friend, so make sure you use these when you source your furniture.

Mid-Century Modern is a Work of Art
Seriously, hang art on your wall. 

From black and white photos to retro pieces, to scenic landscapes that scream escapism. Whatever the art, it will be bold, unexpected, and it will stand out in your home. Have fun!

Embrace Pattern
Pattern and texture are your friends for Mid-Century Modern.

An occasional statement piece will make your furnishings stand out. Don’t be afraid to mix the patterns – in fact, the bolder – the better!

Mix It Up
You don’t have to take a time machine back to the sixties. Combine modern and Mid-Century Modern for an interesting interior. It’ll be easy on the eye and won’t make your house feel stuck in the past.

Do you need new food and restaurant inspiration? Whether you’re a seasoned local or simply a visitor this summer to Phoenix, this blog is the ultimate guide for the dining scene! This summer you can truly embrace the food scene in Phoenix, Tempe, Scottsdale, and MORE with this blog series on different restaurants!

Tru Tacos in Arcadia

For three nights each week, you can head to Tru Tacos! This gorgeous pop-up restaurant is a delight for all locals in Arcadia. It features a small menu of tacos and sides; a special shout-out goes to the carne asada! If you love things hot and spicy, make sure to try their Flamin’ Hot Cheetos tortilla! It’s incredible. And, to wash it down, try out their fabulous margaritas. Tru Tacos is available for both takeout and dine-in!

Toca Madera in Scottsdale

Toca Madera is a modern take on traditional Mexican cuisine, featuring unique plates and specialty craft cocktails. But for me, the cherry on top of this delicious restaurant is the outdoor eating area. It is so exquisitely designed, with elegant orbs hanging overhead and elevated greenery. You can keep cozy all year round at this restaurant with marble-laid outdoor firepits. It’s a dining experience unlike any other!

Elements in Paradise Valley

This New-American-style restaurant is a taste experience! With flavor combinations like soy caramel and escargot, beets, and pistachio-mint chimichurri, this resort restaurant focuses on taste twists. It’s also beautiful, and should be thought of as a special occasion splurge! It’s located by Sanctuary on Camelback – what a gorgeous way to end a luxury spa day than at this restaurant!

These restaurants are simply a delight for both the eyes, the experience, and most importantly, your taste buds. I will continue to blog about my dining and food experiences in Phoenix because I know the food we have here is an experience unlike any other!

These five interior trends are taking 2021 by storm. 

We may be heading into the later end of 2021, but it’s not too late to adopt some of these amazing interior trends! From a burst of maximalism and a celebration of individuality and expressiveness, these trends simply bring me joy! I hope you find some inspiration for your home in this blog. 

A Maximalist Approach to Interior

It’s official: minimalism is OUT for 2021. This is a great trend for those that love bold prints, color, and expression in their interior! Channel your inner free spirit and take inspiration from celebrated artists as you bravely mix and contrast patterns, prints, and colors. Be eclectic with this trend while making sure to mix and match with color tones to bring it all together. And, try mixing large-scale wall decor with smaller decorative details to create fantastic layers throughout your home. It’s a bold trend and one that I simply LOVE. 

Sculptural Furniture is in For Those Who Love Neutral

You can create quiet drama in your neutral-friendly space with shapely figures and striking furnishings. Let these pieces take center stage while your color palette quietly sits in the background. It’s a performative trend that speaks volumes while enhancing a quiet space. 

Be Bold with Color

I absolutely adore a neutral space with a POP of color. Primary colors are making a huge comeback this year. By adding two bright primary colors to a muted palette, you create an artistic edge. It’s the perfect way to add some personality to your interior! Plus, Pantone announced that their color of the year is Ultimate Yellow – the most uplifting, resonating color! Splash this on a statement wall and enjoy the vibrancy. 

Be Contemporary AND Country

Yes, it’s possible to do both! Mix a typically country interior palette, like warm amber and dusky tones, mellow prints, and embroidery, with more muted colors, characterful prints, and statement pieces. The combination of the two trends creates an ambiance unlike any other. 

Go Global 

The global trend lets you travel the world via your interior design! Inspired by earthy color palettes and warm, natural textures, this Global trend pairs perfectly with wooden, woven, and rattan home accessories.

Will you adopt any of these trends this year? 

I’ve learned a thing or two about freshening up homes during my time as a realtor. When you are selling your home, you want it to look fantastic. Plenty of homeowners spend thousands of dollars making their homes perfect so that when potential buyers walk through the door, they are amazed at what the home has to offer. 

Well, what if you didn’t have to wait to sell your home to give it a little freshen up? Freshening up your home doesn’t have to be just for selling – it can be just for you. Here are my top tips to freshen up your home so that you always love where you live. 

Lighten up your space

Let the light in! Dark rooms can leave you feeling sad about your space, so let’s open up those curtains and embrace the sunshine! Brightened rooms can make your home feel SO much bigger and enhance your mood and general feel about the space. If you want to freshen up your home, then paint the walls a lighter color! There are plenty of lightly shaded neutrals to help lift up a room. 

Rearrange your furniture

No, you don’t need to head out to your local furniture store to freshen up your home! Instead, let’s just give things a little mix-up. If you want your home to appear bigger, then create a space with plenty of walk room. The more open a room is, the bigger it feels. 

Freshen up your home

Literally, open up those windows, let the fresh air in, and then head to your local garden center and buy some plants. Plants are a great addition to any home because they add life, a bold color, and freshness to any room. If you are not naturally green-thumbed, try a succulent. If you are REALLY not green-thumbed, no one will know if you head to Ikea and buy a fake one, instead. 

Bring the outside in

This fits with the plants! I love to add a bold accent of color through my plant pots, which is why I always use terracotta pots. Typically, you’d find these outside your home, but they look simply gorgeous inside, too! Add a bit of desert heat with a cactus, and make a statement. 

Declutter your home

It’s time to bring your inner Mari Kondo to your space. The easiest way by far to freshen up your space is to declutter. If you don’t use it often, it’s wasting space, or you’ve meant to sell it for a while, take it to a charity shop and move on. Your space will feel fresh and alive again once it has been decluttered. 

Freshening up your home doesn’t have to cost the earth. These simple tips are super affordable but will make the biggest difference to your home! 

No matter where you’re located or where your destination is, moving homes can be scary. It can be simply moving to a different street or a different neighborhood. Moving homes can be incredibly daunting, with plenty of time scoping out new areas to hang out in, new schools, new walking routes – you name it, it’ll be new. 

But moving states? That’s a really scary move. I moved from Minnesota to Arizona. It was the best decision because Phoenix, Arizona has always felt like my soul city. This blog will be all about moving from the cold Midwest to this hidden gem in the desert heat. 

Arizona has always felt like home.

I used to live here when I was younger. I attended college at ASU, and it was, quite frankly, fabulous. 

So, naturally, when I was at a crossroads in my life, I thought to myself about where I was happiest. The answer came instantly. However, I practiced caution because you can often view a home from your past with rose-tinted glasses. So, I wanted to make sure that Arizona was still just as fabulous through the eyes of a grown-up woman. Arizona was a hit once more. I fell in love once again.

There is a sense of familiarity here.

Going to college here has its perks. I was already familiar with the nightlife and tourist destinations, and it was easy to make friends. There are a lot of transplants in Arizona! All I had to do was wear my Minnesota hat to the farmer’s market, and I made instant friends with other midwesterners. It honestly feels like the Midwest in the desert, and I love it. 

My home was an instant hit.

I’m living in the same home I moved into from the Midwest. Finding the perfect home for you is honestly like finding THAT wedding dress – it fits like a glove, shines throughout, and instantly yours. There’s not a connection like it. That was me and this home – I knew that this was where I was meant to be. My house was by no means perfect when I moved in. It needed a lot of repairs and updating. But, it overlooks downtown, and at nighttime, all the lights glow from the city of Phoenix. Outside my window, I have mountain views. It’s pretty magical. 

I got used to the Arizona heat.

I didn’t find it that hard to adjust to the heat here. There are days when it is frustratingly hot, and I am so irritated. But then I remember that my worst day here is still better than my best days back in Minnesota. That’s a liberating feeling, knowing that where I live now is truly where I am supposed to be. 

I have a secret to my positivity.

I practice gratitude every day. I know what a special place Arizona is because I’m not from here originally. I keep myself physically fit to truly enjoy what Arizona has to offer. That helps my mental health and wellbeing too.

I wake up every day grateful. Before my feet even hit my bedroom floor, I’m thankful that I get to live in Arizona. And to be honest, that sets my day up right from the very beginning. 

Love Where You Live 

Moving from Minnesota to Arizona has been the journey of a lifetime! I love where I live so much that I became a real estate agent to help others find their dream home here. In fact, “love where you live” became my tagline! I even had a logo designed to tell the story you’ve read in this blog post. The pines symbolize my home in Minnesota and the mountains symbolize my new home in Arizona. 

This logo represents the journey of moving from cold to warm, and each time I look at it, I remember how lucky I am to help you love where you live, too!