.Lifestyle & Home

Local residents and frequent visitors to Lake Merritt might think they know everything about what has long been considered a “crown jewel” of Oakland. But much like an image appearing in a mirror held up to the city in which it is a centerpiece, the lake that is actually a lagoon and harbors the nation's first wildlife refuge reflects a layered, complex, intriguing history.

In many ways, a stroll around Point Richmond is a stroll back through history—only with fun shopping and great food. The village was the original town of Richmond, and a rip-roaring one it once was too, when the railroads and then the oil workers arrived. Many of the 19th to early 20th-century buildings still exist, many still in use, adding to the period charm.

Whether it’s Christmas, Hanukkah or a non-denominational gathering of friends and loved ones, the winter season is a fantastic opportunity to dress up, down and generally all around. By this I mean, don’t dress to impress someone else, but let’s dress the heck up for ourselves this holiday season! Let’s give the gift of feeling great in our clothes—to ourselves first and each other by proxy. I’ll cheers a glass of dairy-free eggnog to that.

While marriage could be a boon to your bank account, it could also leave you in temporary or permanent financial straits. But getting to know your mate’s mindset towards money and their financial situation will play a crucial role in reaching your happily-ever-after goal. Addressing financial topics isn’t romantic, and some couples might find talking about them uncomfortable; it’s a must do before saying I do.

My very first day as a server for a wedding catering company, I learned an important lesson: Weddings are not for the faint of heart. Whether you’re a guest, a worker or an expectant fiancé(e), the day dawns bright with the promise of high emotions, festivity and very little time to sit down and relax.

For those wanting to stay local, here are some ideas for offbeat wedding venues that might just be the solution for an unforgettable—and unique—ceremony. Be aware that pent-up demand during the pandemic has meant a flood of weddings, so be prepared to book any of these offbeat wedding venues as far in advance as possible.

Ring-a ding-ding! Get your shopping chops warmed up, because the holidays are upon us. Buying locally, as we know, supports local businesses, is better for the environment, is more fun—and nets cooler gifts. Maybe the one they will remember forever. The suggestions below are by no means definitive. But you might find the perfect inspiration. Take a look and see…