Entries by Ryan Williams

Desert Landscaping That Thrives in March

March is the perfect time to refresh your Phoenix yard with beautiful, low-water plants that bloom now and thrive through summer. Discover practical desert landscaping ideas using native and drought-tolerant species to create a stunning, water-wise outdoor space.

Sustainable Home Upgrades for 2026

In the intense heat of the Phoenix Valley, sustainable home upgrades aren’t just good for the planet—they deliver real savings on skyrocketing energy and water bills. This 2026 guide explores cost-effective improvements in solar, smart technology, and desert-friendly designs that local homeowners and contractors are embracing for both new builds and renovations.

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Filling Bowls, Feeding Souls: WHAM Art Center’s 12th Annual ‘Bowls of Hope’

On November 29, 2025, WHAM Art Center’s 12th Annual “Bowls of Hope” returns to Surprise with 500+ handcrafted bowls, artist booths, and family fun—raising funds for seven West Valley charities. Since 2013, the event has donated $42,000+ to fight hunger and hardship. From Sun City Clay Club creations to food trucks and live demos, this Small Business Saturday tradition turns art into meals, one unique bowl at a time.

10 Daily Habits for a Spotless Phoenix Kitchen

Kitchens in Phoenix homes often face unique challenges—dust from the arid climate, frequent entertaining due to the vibrant local culture, and the hustle of daily meal prep. My own kitchen tends to collect everything from stray cactus-shaped magnets to stacks of takeout menus. How do some locals keep their kitchens looking magazine- worthy? I tapped into expert advice and added a few Phoenix-specific tips to create this list of 10 habits for a consistently clean kitchen.

Dining Guide – The Phoenix West Valley

Savor the flavors of Phoenix’s West Valley, where Arrowhead Grill and Fleming’s Steakhouse carve out top-tier steak experiences, while Litchfield’s at The Wigwam blends rustic elegance with New American flair. From Hash Kitchen’s brunch brilliance to Bottega Pizzeria’s Italian authenticity, this dining guide unveils a culinary mosaic that turns every meal into a desert delight.

Dining Guide – The Phoenix East Valley

Dive into Phoenix’s East Valley dining scene, where Quiessence crafts seasonal American elegance and Dominick’s Steakhouse sizzles with prime cuts, all amid Scottsdale’s culinary glow. From The Mission’s modern Mexican twists to Nobuo at Teeter House’s omakase artistry, this guide unveils a flavor-packed journey through the Valley’s finest tables.

Luxury Living, Made Simple

Creating a beautifully appointed living room that exudes elegance and comfort doesn’t have to come with a sky-high price tag. With a discerning eye for design, a few clever styling techniques, and thoughtful investment in key pieces, it’s possible to achieve a high-end aesthetic on a modest budget.

Grilling 101

Ryan Williams’ Grilling 101 guide equips you to master your barbecue in Phoenix’s scorching sun, offering expert tips on gear, heat control, and flavor-packed techniques for unforgettable backyard cookouts.