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Wallpaper is having a moment. 

Wallpaper has made a huge comeback over recent years due to its affordability, ease of use, and standout nature. It’s the quickest way to make a home ‘yours’, individualize it, or make a statement. But – is this trend worth the hype? And what kind of wallpaper should we be looking at? This blog will explore the wallpaper trend in 2021 and look at what is taking the interior world by storm!

Maximalism Wallpaper

Be bold, bright, and beautiful! A huge step away from any minimalist movement, this wallpaper pattern will take center stage in any room! Make a wall a focal point and sit back and admire the boldness. This is a huge trend this year and will transform any room. 

Floral Wallpaper

Whether you like your flowers bold, vintage, or contemporary, this trend is huge for 2021! A gorgeous accented wall that will look divine in your home. When looking at floral wallpaper, assess the pattern, print, and in particular, the size of the flower prints. These will all have a huge impact on your interior look and feel!

Bold Palettes Wallpaper

Clearly, 2021 is NOT about minimalism! Another big trend this year is bold palettes – meaning bright, contrasting colors. This is a move away from the clean, chic neutral palette we have been so used to seeing over the past few years! Don’t be afraid to combine different colors and patterns when selecting your wallpaper, just make sure your furniture and your walls complement each other. 

Graphic Wallpaper

Simplified, structured design is key here. Graphic prints follow order, regime, and structure, and this is a great move for your home! If your interior is clean-cut and modern, a graphic wallpaper will look incredible. 

Faded Glamor Wallpaper

Embody Hollywood glamor with a modern twist! This rock n roll wallpaper is dark, moody romance and I love it! Featuring lush botanicals with a broody, dramatic, background, this is perfect for a bedroom feature. 

Life is meant to be explored. We were not designed as human beings to simply sit in our lives and never face challenges, overcome obstacles or feel that thrilling sense of joy from discovering something new. Sometimes, life can be hard. It can be moment after moment of difficult decisions, uncertainty, and hardship. But that’s the beauty of life. It is never stationary, it is rarely easy, and that’s what makes it beautiful. 

This blog will be all about exploring the things you love to do. Life is simply too short to spend it working in a job you dislike, with friends you tolerate, living to pay bills. There is MORE to existing than that. 

Love the Life You Live!

Does your life currently excite you? Does it feel you with joy, energy, and fulfillment? If not, why not? Life isn’t supposed to be all routine, chores, and paying bills. It’s supposed to be passionate; driving you forward to your next goal, step, or accomplishment. If your life isn’t one you love to live – then think about how you can change this to create something you can look back on with pure happiness. I promise you that it will be worth it.

You are Never Too Old To Live Your Dreams!

As women, we often let our dreams go to the sidelines in pursuit of family, security, and because of fear. As we get older, we can be forgotten by society and replaced by new, younger people with bigger and brighter dreams. I’m here to tell you that you are NEVER too old to try something new. If you want to go try a new qualification, certificate, or hobby, then go for it! 

I recently did this myself and have embarked on a course in a brand new field. Pretty soon, I will be qualified to do something I’ve always wanted to do. (I’m keeping the specifics close for now!) This is me living my dreams. Who cares how old I am? I certainly don’t, and I won’t let a thing like age stop me.

Be The Energy You Want to Attract

I came across this quote recently and it really resonated with me. I think that is so true – when you are really genuinely excited about something, the energy resonates and other people can feel it. Before, I was trying to figure something out or make a certain thing happen because I was scared of what would happen if it didn’t work out. But magic doesn’t happen when you’re scared. It happens when you’re fearless and happy.

My job as a realtor is varied, fun, and SO rewarding. I simply love to partner people with their dream homes throughout Phoenix. With that being said, when looking for the right real estate agent, it can be tricky to know who is the best for you. This blog should help outline just what to look for, how to find one, and what to avoid when buying or selling a home in Phoenix, Arizona!

How to Find a Great Realtor

If you are looking to buy or sell a home in Phoenix, the best way to start your search for your perfect match is simply by asking around! Guaranteed, you’ll have friends, family, co-workers, or a neighbor that has gone through this process and can recommend someone to you. This way is also great because you have a real-life verdict, experience and can rely on their word of mouth versus a glossy ad in a magazine!

What Makes a Good One?

A really good real estate agent will be concerned with your needs, not their own. They will go the extra mile to find something perfect for you, no matter what your specifications, needs, or budget is. They will ask the right questions to really find out your goals when it comes to buying or selling your home. Obviously, there are important measures like making sure that they are licensed with the Arizona Department of Real Estate. This is an absolute necessity because if they’re not registered, you are both in trouble! Finally, make sure to ask them for any testimonials. Can they prove that people are happy with their work? If so – great! If not, then this might set off alarm bells for you. 

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What to Avoid When Looking for a Realtor

When it comes to picking a realtor, you always want someone that is there, transparent, and invested in your home journey. When selling a home, the big agencies will often send over an assistant instead of the agent. This demonstrates that they’re not invested in you; they just are invested in what profit they can make.  

And remember, with the housing market, no challenge is too big; you just have to find the right person for the task!

How amazing is the restaurant scene in Phoenix?! I am always amazed by the offerings from the different neighborhoods, each demonstrating new cuisines, new styles, and a whole lot of yummy goodness! This Spring, I want to continue exploring all that Phoenix has to offer in terms of restaurants – and I thought I’d write this blog to help anyone looking to try something new!

Enjoy Tocaya Mexican Restaurant

This small chain of restaurants is causing SO much commotion in Phoenix! They have just opened up a location near Camby, and it was so delicious. It’s simply so fun to just sit on the patio there and drink a spicy margarita. Enjoy the scenic views of the mountains in the distance, and perhaps do some late-night shopping at the Biltmore, too! What’s so great about Tocaya is that it’s indulgent yet still healthy, so you can enjoy their food any night of the week!

Dine at Flint

The Flint is a gorgeous Californian-inspired restaurant. With trees lining the interior, and an enclosed patio with an open roof, you’ll feel like you’re in a glamorous dream, dining under the Phoenix sky! While you’re there, why not try the Grilled Swordfish, the Artichoke Hummus, or the Lamb Cavatelli? The menu is simply inspired – you will have the best time!

Feast at Pa’La

What can I say about the beauty that is Pa’La? Easily the most scenic restaurant I’ve ever been to in Phoenix, Pa’La is an award-winning restaurant that sits in the most beautiful little cottage. Everything is cooked in their wood-fired oven, from the fresh fish bought from the local market that day, through to the vegetables on the side. They change their menu daily, so be sure to check out their Instagram for the latest update!

There are ample places to dine out in Phoenix! This is just a small selection of an incredible array of restaurants that you, friends, and family can all enjoy.

Moving from the cold North to the heat that is Phoenix still shocks me every summer! I can still convert the temperature back to what is normal for me, and I’m baffled as to how I am coping in the summer months. But, I do – and what’s great about Phoenix is the wide array of indoor activities available for everyone. I normally go with three different personas in summer: shade, air conditioning, and swimming pool. It’s the best way to do the Arizona summers! But I have learned to adapt to the Arizona way of life and I am sure you will too! Here are my top places for summer activities in Phoenix. 

Visit the Indoor Arts

The Phoenix Art Museum is just incredible. I love it so much and always pay a visit when they have a new exhibition on, or just to view my favorites all over again!

The Musical Instrument Museum is so cool! It is surprising and different from what you would expect a museum to be like. Did you know that a Minnesotan actually founded it? How cool!

For theatre and music lovers, please visit the Herberger Theatre Centre! You’ll find all sorts of music and theatrical performances here, and because of COVID, they are even hosting the Symphony here too!

Staycation in Phoenix

Who doesn’t love a good staycation!? I know I certainly do. One of the best things about living in Phoenix is the summer discounts, so do try and take advantage of them this summer! One of my favorite spots is The Sanctuary Resort. Located near Camelback, this wild setting is the perfect place to be at one with nature and enjoy all the luxuries of the spa! Indulge, relax, and unwind in the summer setting sun – perfection! 

The Scottsdale Princess is another hidden Phoenix gem. This is the perfect place to relax and re-energize yourself while on a staycation this summer! It has the most beautiful waterpark with a lazy river running through, and at night it is so beautifully lit against the Phoenix night sky. I can’t wait to go there this summer!

Road Trip to Sedona

Sedona is known for its spirituality, and I’m here to tell you this is no joke. Sedona is one of the most magical, peaceful places on earth. When you go there, make sure to climb Cathedral Trail and bask in the view – no photograph ever does it justice! If you’re feeling fancy while you’re on vacation, visit Mariposa! This fine-dining restaurant is a taste of luxury and I simply love going there. 

What are your best tips for summer in Phoenix? I’d love to hear them!

Phoenix is FULL of little gems, and every morning I wake up SO excited to live in the valley! I feel like each week, I discover new and exciting places, destinations, and activities. This city certainly never fails to impress me, and I hope you get out and explore it too!

Local Events

I love the Uptown Phoenix farmer’s market. It’s the best way for me to start my weekend, full of fresh produce, local shops and businesses, and the best vibe. I always love the Herberger Theater; they’re currently doing Outdoor Arts, and it’s simply inspired! And if that’s not enough, the Fridays in Phoenix are an event in itself! From First Fridays to Third Fridays, the Roosevelt Row makes sure to impress with astonishing art, culture, and events every first and third Friday of each month. It’s amazing!

Fantastic Dining

I feel like I eat my way around Phoenix every week, and I am certainly not complaining! From the drinks at Hash Kitchen, through to the breakfast burritos at Sergio’s, Phoenix has everything I need and more! If you’re looking for more fine dining, head to Flint, where you’ll think you’re in California for the night! There are also amazing outside areas at Otro, The Gladly, and Pizzeria Bianco! If you are looking for somewhere more upscale, check out Lon’s at the Hermosa Inn. The choices are literally endless! 

Great People

The people in Phoenix are incredible. For example, I simply HAVE to tell you about this amazing company I recently used – Mac Media. I broke my Apple Watch, and they replaced it for me without ANY hassle. Mac Media is an authorized place that deals with Apple products! It’s a small company that gives a personal Apple experience without the huge crowds that normally come with the store. If you have an Apple product that breaks, be sure to go check them out in Old Scottsdale – they’re simply fabulous and so kind too!

Majestic Views

There are so many gorgeous trails around Phoenix that you MUST go 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. How cool?! Another beautiful hike is the Piestewa Peak Trailhead. It’s the most beautiful spot and is the second-highest point in the Phoenix Mountains. If you can take the time, obviously go to the Grand Canyon – it’s a wonder of the world and SO clear to see why. Simply breathtaking. 

Phoenix has become my dream home, and I hope this blog helps you see why! 

My job as a realtor is varied, fun, and SO rewarding. I simply love to partner people with their dream homes throughout Phoenix. With that being said, the challenge faced by any realtor in any city is the housing market! We look at the market every single day and assess how we will help our clients buy and sell homes as easily as possible. 

It’s a great time to sell.

If you own a home in Phoenix and you are looking to sell your home, now is a wonderful time to do it. Phoenix is a city that is newly discovered by the masses and this means that homes are just getting more popular to buy. So if you are looking to sell your home, expect fierce competition and plenty of bids that give you the luxury of choice.

It’s trickier to buy.

Now, don’t be alarmed, because while it is harder to buy right now, it’s by no means impossible. Because Phoenix is growing in popularity, it means that so many more people are looking to buy the same homes as each other. People want to enjoy our beautiful desert landscape and everlasting heat! But don’t be dismayed, you can still buy a home that you simply adore, and it’s my job to get you that.

Agents still need to go that extra mile!

When you are looking to sell or buy your home, you need an agent to go that extra mile. Good agents have cultivated relationships with other agents by way of their past dealings with them, so they will work together. They have little networks like the emails within your company. When you are looking at buying or selling your home, find a good agent to go the extra mile, dig deeper, and know the market. A good agent doesn’t just write off the tough market. They keep digging and get creative on where to find your dream home.

And remember, with the housing market, no challenge is too big, you just have to find the right person for the task!

Breakfast is the BEST meal of the day. I could go out for breakfast or brunch any day of the week and still want more! I know for newcomers to the city, you might not know where the best breakfast and brunch spots are, so I thought I would write this blog to help out!

Breakfast at Sergio’s Kitchen

The breakfast burritos at Sergio’s Kitchen are amazing! They are served with a cilantro sauce that you can drink with a straw. At this point, I can’t really start my day until I eat one of their egg burritos! My Saturday is really made special by one of these breakfast treats. I go to Sergio’s stall at the Uptown Farmer’s Market every single weekend. If you want some more information on the Farmer’s Market, read this blog!

Drink at Hash Kitchen

WOW. Hash Kitchen will blow you away! This is the home of the original build your own Bloody Mary Bar and oh my goodness it is amazing. It is the most colorful brunch going, with their huge mimosa menu of every flavor! From pomegranate to orange to pineapple, you will not be disappointed! This bar is also SO aesthetically pleasing, so go enjoy the amazing U-shaped bar at Hash Kitchen.

The Farm at South Mountain

This is more than a beautiful brunch. It’s an experience. They have so many options available like the Morning Glory Cafe and the Farm Kitchen! It is a signature Arizona breakfast spot, and it is so clear to see why. Relax and enjoy your weekend here on South Mountain and enjoy all that this amazing venue has to offer.

There are ample places to enjoy brunch in Phoenix! This is just a small selection of an incredible array of breakfast spots that you, friends, and family can all enjoy.

Practicing self-care is more important now than ever before. I like to practice self-care in a variety of ways, including bike rides, getting outdoors, doing yoga, going to spas, and spending time at the botanical gardens. Phoenix is a unique and beautiful place to practice self-care and I feel so lucky to call this city my home and embrace all that it has to offer!

Yoga at Moksha

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

Get Outside

Honestly, getting outside is one of the best ways that I practice self-care. I wrote in another blog about the gorgeous outdoor areas in Phoenix, including bike rides down the canal, hiking up one of the beautiful mountains, or sitting at the outdoor patios with some food and a good book. Sometimes I even love to just take a walk alone and listen to music. It’s a really beautiful, personal moment that I try and take for myself.

The Botanical Gardens

The Desert Botanical Gardens really do highlight how amazingly lucky we are to live in this unique and diverse landscape. When I go visit there, I know that I am in some incredible beauty and I feel it. It improves my mood, my mindset, and I feel better for it. You can even take some classes here!

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. 

In today’s world, practicing self-care is more important than ever. In Phoenix, we are so lucky to live in a city that provides SO much and I suggest to anyone living here that if your mindset needs a pick-me-up, go try out one of these activities. 

Phoenix is FULL of little gems, and these include outdoor activities. Typically, tourists come to Arizona to see the Grand Canyon. One of the wonders in the world, the Grand Canyon is of incredible natural beauty and normally attracts millions of visitors per year. But, this isn’t ALL that Arizona has to offer, in fact – far from it! Phoenix has so many incredible outdoor activities that mean you don’t have to travel far. This blog explores the outdoor activities near YOU so that you know where to go and what to do when you move to Phoenix!

Hiking is the Perfect Outside Activity in the Spring

I love getting outside and going for a long hike. There are so many gorgeous trails around Phoenix that you MUST go explore! Camelback Mountain is located just 20 minutes from downtown Phoenix and attracts thousands of hikers per year. It’s so clear to see why! This incredible hike not only gives you beautiful views of the valley but also LOOKS so cool! Camelback mountain 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. If you want more information on this hike, click here!

Another beautiful hike is the Piestewa Peak Trailhead. It’s the most beautiful spot and is the second-highest point in the Phoenix Mountains. It’s climbed thousands of times per week by locals and tourists alike! You can enjoy amazing views from the top of the mountains, and it’s a great workout too!

Get Outside on Your Bikes by the Canal

I love biking down the canal system. You can start in North Central and end up in Old Scottsdale and have an iced tea while you’re there. I recommend wearing a headlight for your return on your bike because you have so much fun, you stop, you drink, you stop again, and you lose track of time! Maybe get together with your friends and organize a beer or wine crawl on your bike. Let loose and have some friends outside with your friends and enjoy all the nature that Phoenix has to offer. To check out the Canal and some walks, click here!

Eat at These Beautiful Outdoor Dining Locations

Phoenix is a BEAUTIFUL spot for outdoor dining. The weather here never gets cold and boy does the hospitality industry know this!

There are also amazing outside areas at Otro, The Gladly, and Pizzeria Bianco! If you are looking for somewhere more upscale, check out Lon’s at the Hermosa Inn. With beautiful gardens and fireplaces, and stunning music on Friday nights, you can start your weekend the right way!

I truly recommend that if it is safe to do so, you get outside and explore more of what beautiful Phoenix has to offer. It’s truly remarkable and one of the reasons I love this city SO much!