Features

PHX Architecture and Salcito Construction Hosted the VIP ‘Festival of Trees’ Kickoff Cocktail Party Launching the week long event.

Whether you’re having an ugly sweater party or a classically chic soirée, there are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to throwing a memorable and comfortable holiday party. Celebrity event planner Stefanie Cove and lifestyle expert Jen Lawrence offer their expert tips on how to maintain stress as a hostess and keep your guests talking about your party for years to come.

1. Send e-vites. Go green this season and opt for an...

Check back each week for MASK's Dad Dialed In and Minute with Mom series.

I came from a fairly simple upbringing. My dad was a scrap metal dealer and worked very long and hard hours. My mom stayed at home to care for the family.

Born in the 1950s, by no stretch of the imagination were we wealthy. But we didn’t miss any meals, either. I attribute that to my dad being such a hard worker and my mom being a creative cook. She made tuna casseroles in more ways than anyone I’ve ever met.

My dad also sold appliances and he would bring home the big cardboard boxes they’d come in. We’d make...

Check back each week for MASK's Dad Dialed In and Minute with Mom series.

Eighteen years ago, my husband and I went into the mattress business. But before we opened our first Sleep America store, I had already started a mattress recycling program with St. Vincent de Paul to keep mattresses out of land fills. Giving back and positively impacting the community has always been important to me, especially considering the experiences I had growing up.

I wasn’t born with a silver spoon in my mouth. Growing up in Texas, we had to work hard for what we wanted. My parents owned an antique store that, sadly...