Tag: Scottsdale events

Posted on by — Leave a comment

Vineyards in the Valley: Where Fine Wine Meets Purpose

On this week’s episode of the Scottsdale Vibes Podcast, host Alicia Haygood sits down with Scottsdale natives and lifelong friends Skyler Badenoch and Ricky Palmer, the duo behind the much-anticipated Vineyards in the Valley event returning this December. What began as a shared love of wine has grown into one of Scottsdale’s most meaningful celebrations—uniting community, compassion, and connection over exceptional wine and cuisine.

Now in its second year, Vineyards in the Valley will feature 70+ ultra-premium wineries, local chefs, and unforgettable experiences—all benefiting Hope for Haiti, a nonprofit where Badenoch serves as CEO. The organization provides vital healthcare to Haitian women and families, including early detection and treatment for breast and cervical cancer.

For Badenoch, this mission is deeply personal: “Our work focuses on improving quality of life, particularly for women and children. It’s not just about what we do, but the problems we help local Haitian leaders solve.”

Palmer’s inspiration also came from the heart. Wanting to honor his late mother, a breast cancer survivor, he turned a simple idea—hosting a wine event—into a powerful cause. “I wanted to make an impact that mattered,” he says. “When Skyler told me about the women walking miles to get screened in Haiti, I knew we had to make this happen.”

An Event Rooted in Community

This year’s event takes place at the Scottsdale Stadium, a full-circle moment for the friends who grew up watching spring training games there. Guests will enjoy world-class wine, local restaurant partnerships, and music—all while supporting life-changing healthcare in Haiti.

Leading up to the grand tasting, a series of exclusive dinners at top Scottsdale restaurants like Bourbon Steak, Catch, Hearth ’61, and Course Restaurant will pair exquisite cuisine with featured wineries.

Every sip tells a story: of community, of friendship, and of hope. “We started with a dream,” Palmer shares, “and now we’re helping change lives.”Tickets are already going fast for this year’s Vineyards in the Valley.

To learn more or to purchase tickets, visit https://hopeforhaiti.com/vineyardsinthevalley/

Posted on by — Leave a comment

Sip, Savor, Shop: Arizona’s Local Flavor Comes to Scottsdale

There’s something special about events that truly celebrate Arizona’s local spirit — and Sip, Savor, Shop is one of them. Created by A Taste of AZ founders Luke Irvin and Eric Walters, this new festival brings together the best of what our state has to offer: food, drink, and community.

Born from their passion for storytelling and supporting local businesses, Luke and Eric have built A Taste of AZ into a multimedia brand dedicated to Arizona’s vibrant food and beverage scene. From breweries and wineries to small-batch artisans and chefs, they’ve spent years highlighting the people and places that give our state its unique flavor. Now, with Sip, Savor, Shop, they’re inviting everyone to experience that magic in person.

Bringing Arizona Together

Hosted at Salt River Fields in Scottsdale, Sip, Savor, Shop is designed to be more than just another food festival — it’s an immersive experience celebrating local craftsmanship. Guests can explore a curated selection of Arizona-based wineries, breweries, distilleries, and artisan vendors, all while enjoying live music and delicious bites.

For Luke and Eric, the event is a natural extension of their mission. “We’ve always wanted to connect the community directly with the people behind the products they love,” they shared on the Scottsdale Vibes Podcast. “This event gives us the chance to bring those stories to life — face-to-face.”

Local Roots, Local Love

While both founders have deep ties to Arizona’s culinary world, A Taste of AZ has quickly grown into something much larger than a publication. Through their print magazine, digital content, and now events, Luke and Eric continue to highlight the diverse mix of cultures and creativity that make Arizona such a dynamic food destination.

Their passion for supporting local doesn’t stop with restaurants or breweries — it extends to artists, craftspeople, and small businesses. That’s what makes Sip, Savor, Shop so special: it’s a one-stop celebration of everything local, crafted with care and authenticity.

Why Scottsdale?

When it came time to host Sip, Savor, Shop, Scottsdale was the obvious choice. Known for its mix of sophistication, creativity, and community pride, it’s the perfect home for an event that showcases Arizona’s best flavors.

As Luke and Eric put it, “Scottsdale has always been at the crossroads of culture and connection. We wanted Sip, Savor, Shop to reflect that — to be a place where locals and visitors alike can experience the energy of Arizona’s makers firsthand.”

Taste, Toast, and Take Home

Whether you’re sipping on a locally crafted wine, savoring a small-plate creation from an Arizona chef, or browsing artisan goods to take home, Sip, Savor, Shop promises a day full of discovery. It’s a true celebration of what happens when creativity, community, and craftsmanship come together.

As Luke and Eric continue to grow A Taste of AZ and expand their impact, events like this one prove that local stories — and local flavors — have never been more worth celebrating.

Posted on by — Leave a comment

Scottsdale Fashion Square: The Evolution of an Iconic Luxury Destination

From Desert Beginnings to a Nationally Ranked Landmark

Since opening its doors in 1961, Scottsdale Fashion Square has transformed from a modest outdoor shopping center into one of the nation’s premier luxury destinations. Ranked among the top malls in the United States, the center continues to reinvent itself while honoring its storied past.

Recently, I sat down with Lauren McGlinch, Events and Communications Manager, and Melanie Sutton, Senior Marketing Manager, to explore how this Scottsdale landmark continues to thrive in a fast-changing retail world.

A Rich History of Growth

In its earliest days, Scottsdale Fashion Square was surrounded by ranch land and desert, a reflection of the city’s Western roots. Anchored by Goldwaters and Bayless, the original center soon expanded, adding Nordstrom, Barney’s, and later its signature luxury wing anchored by Neiman Marcus.

Over the decades, the mall’s evolution has mirrored Scottsdale’s own rise as a hub for luxury, lifestyle, and innovation. Today, it features more than 200 stores, from iconic luxury houses like Louis Vuitton, Dior, and Hermès to contemporary favorites like Alo Yoga, Lululemon, and Foot Locker.

Meeting the Demands of a Growing City

Scottsdale is no longer just a resort town — it’s an economic engine attracting corporate headquarters, global brands, and new residents from across the country.

“2020 was a pivotal year,” Sutton explained. “We saw an influx of people relocating from California and Colorado, drawn by Scottsdale’s quality of life and vibrant culture. That growth pushed us to make sure we could offer every shopper — whether they’re local or visiting — the best mix of luxury and lifestyle brands.”

The arrival of Hermès in September 2024, featuring one of the brand’s largest shoe salons in the country, underscores that commitment.

Beyond Shopping: Creating Experiences

As McGlinch pointed out, Scottsdale Fashion Square is not just a mall — it’s an experience.

Shoppers can enjoy:

  • Fine dining at Catch, Toca Madera, and Nobu.
  • Luxury hospitality at Caesars Republic Hotel.
  • Coworking opportunities at Industrious.
  • Community events like Scottsdale Fashion Week and partnerships with Phoenix Children’s Hospital.

“We want people to stay,” McGlinch said. “Grab brunch, attend an event, meet friends for dinner. It’s not just about shopping anymore.”

Innovation in Dining and Entertainment

Food is at the heart of every community, and Scottsdale Fashion Square is preparing for its most ambitious project yet: a full Palm Court Food Court renovation slated for completion in November 2026.

The redesign will feature:

  • Comfortable, family-friendly seating.
  • Immersive digital displays, including a state-of-the-art screen on the glass elevator.
  • Upgraded design to match the luxury look of other wings.

The relaunch will debut with a spectacular holiday experience, blending technology, dining, and entertainment in one central hub.

Scottsdale on the World Stage

Fashion Square’s influence extends far beyond Arizona. With exclusive brands like Brunello Cucinelli, Versace, and Princess Polly, the center has positioned itself as a global destination.

Marketing strategies extend to international fashion weeks in Paris and Milan, ensuring that Scottsdale is not only recognized locally but also celebrated by a worldwide audience.

“Our goal is to put Scottsdale on the global fashion map,” Sutton said.

Community Connection at the Core

Despite its luxury reputation, Scottsdale Fashion Square is deeply rooted in the community. From hosting charity luncheons to collaborating with Scottsdale Arts and Experience Scottsdale, the center continues to give back.

“We both stay active in local organizations,” McGlinch shared. “It’s about finding the right fit for each event and making sure Fashion Square remains connected to the people who live here.”

Looking Ahead: The Next Decade

So, what does the future hold for Scottsdale Fashion Square?

Both Sutton and McGlinch point to adaptability as the key. With Gen Z shoppers returning to malls for in-person experiences, the center is focusing on events, immersive retail, and expanding its dining scene.

“Things are always changing,” McGlinch said. “In five to ten years, our goal is to keep listening to the community, keep evolving, and keep creating experiences that make Scottsdale Fashion Square the place people want to be.”

The Scottsdale Vibe

When asked what excites them most about the mall today, McGlinch highlighted the expanding culinary scene, while Sutton emphasized the prestige of being Scottsdale’s go-to destination.

Their favorite Scottsdale vibes?

  • McGlinch: Scottsdale’s country music culture and lively nightlife.
  • Sutton: Outdoor adventures in the McDowell Mountains — balanced with a martini at day’s end.

Both answers reflect the same spirit that drives Scottsdale Fashion Square itself: a blend of luxury, lifestyle, and community that continues to evolve while staying true to its roots.