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        <title>Santa Cruz Real Estate News &amp; Information</title>
        <link>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/2022-12/</link>
        <description>Lifestyle, community, day trips, restaurants, real estate, home improvements, and more. Discover what makes Santa Cruz County such a great place to live. Presented by My Santa Cruz Real Estate.</description>
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    <guid>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/influential-residents-from-santa-cruz.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/influential-residents-from-santa-cruz.html</link>
        <author>lauren@laurenspencer.com (Lauren Spencer)</author>
        <title>Influential Residents From Santa Cruz</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 




Perhaps most well-known for its surfing opportunities, beautiful beaches, and laid-back atmosphere, Santa Cruz is a lovely place for both families and young professionals to settle down. So it’s no wonder that so many choose to make this gorgeous area home 



Santa Cruz is also where many noteworthy people have hailed from. Whether they were born in this beautiful region or spent a large part of their lives here, each are proud to call themselves Santa Cruz residents—and have gone on to do some great work Here are a few of the influential people who have come from this wonderful city. 


Adam Scott


April 3, 1973—


Perhaps one of the most recognizable names on this list, Adam Scott is an actor most known for his work on television—which include his minor roles in The Good Place and Big Little Lies, and his major roles in Parks and Recreation and Severance. He has also starred in several films, and currently co-hosts a podcast (although he has also appeared as a guest in a number of others).



Adam Scott was born and raised in Santa Cruz. Although starting out in more comedic television shows, he has branched out to more dramatic roles over the years, with great critical reception. Adam Scott has been nominated for an Emmy for his performance in the lead role in the television series, Severance.


Julia Hartz


November 20, 1979—


A big supporter of women in the business world, Julia Hartz is an Entrepreneur and the co-founder of the international ticketing and event organization platform, Eventbrite.



Initially beginning her career in television as a development executive, Hartz now balances her role as a CEO and investor. She has appeared on the cover of Forbes Magazine and has been recognized under several Fortune lists, including “Most Powerful Women Entrepreneurs.” She was born and raised in Santa Cruz. 


Jay Moriarity


June 16, 1978—June 15, 2001


Born in Georgia, but having moved to Santa Cruz during infancy, Jay Moriarty was a renowned surfer. With many favorite spots in and around the Santa Cruz County area, he was most notable for surfing Mavericks, a popular and challenging surf location found to the north in Half Moon Bay.



Many have cited him as an inspiring figure for the surfing community. In 2012, following his passing, a biopic called Chasing Mavericks was released.


Lorette Wood


May 17, 1915—April 20, 2010


Elected in 1971, and in office for a year, Lorette Wood was the first female mayor of Santa Cruz. Although she was not born or raised in Santa Cruz, she moved here later on, and spent most of her life here. When elected as mayor, she was cited as saying that she would do, &quot;the job in which the people have put their confidence in me to do.&quot;



A Republican, Lorette Wood was a teacher before she was a politician, and advocated for the rights of female teachers, specifically unlawful contract termination. Wood would also be the first female city council member in Santa Cruz, elected 4 years prior in 1967—an event which happened one hundred and one years after the city’s incorporation. 


Other Notable Santa Cruz Residents


While not Santa Cruz natives, there are few other influential individuals who have resided or spent significant time in the Santa Cruz area. 


 


Alfred Hitchcock 


13 August 1899—29 April 1980


Alfred Hitchcock is highly regarded as one of the most influential filmmakers of all time, with some of his most notable works including Rebecca (1940), Vertigo (1958), and Psycho (1960). Born in Britain, he later became an American citizen, and owned a home in Scotts Valley. His love for the Santa Cruz County and the coastal California area would be the inspiration for several of his films, including Suspicion (1941), and The Birds (1963).


Angela Davis


January 26, 1944—


Angela Davis, now a professor at the University of California, Santa Cruz in the department of Feminist Studies, is a longtime political activist and renowned author of numerous books on the topics of race, class, feminism, and prison abolitionism. Her incarceration in 1970 spawned the “Free Angela Davis” movement that called for her freedom—and she was later declared innocent.



Thinking of making Santa Cruz your home? You’ll need the help of the Santa Cruz real estate experts. Contact Lauren Spencer today

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    <pubDate>Fri, 30 Dec 2022 12:00:00 -0800</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/5-interior-design-trends-for-2023.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/5-interior-design-trends-for-2023.html</link>
        <author>lauren@laurenspencer.com (Lauren Spencer)</author>
        <title>5 Interior Design Trends For 2023</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Santa Cruz is known for its harsh snowstorms and freezing winters—just kidding. But for many, the winter season is one of staying in, spending time with family and friends, and finishing up things in order to prepare for the end of the year. It’s also a time where we begin to think of little changes, updates, and improvements, especially around the home. 



While interior decorating trends might not move as quickly as, say, fashion, each year does see new styles come and go. As the year draws to a close, here are our top interior design trends for 2023. If you’re thinking of refreshing your space, consider some of the tips below. 






Pops of Color


While neutral tones in interior design have been a trend for many, many years. And neutrals have been pushed for good reason: they’re sleek, clean, easy to match, and pleasant to look at. The all-white kitchen, for example, has been a staple over the last decade, especially with the rise of minimalism.



2023 might see more use of color in different styles. Although entirely bright, vibrant rooms are probably still a bit too much for most, pops of color in accent pieces or scattered throughout the room will likely see even more popularity—in line with the previous years’ fixation on the 90s and the color green. With Pantone naming “Viva Magenta” (a bold red-purple) as the color of 2023, perhaps this year will be even brighter than we think


Emphasis on Sustainability


This isn’t a new trend by any means, but it’s certainly one that will stick around. Certain trends, such as a color or style may not really matter in the grand scheme of things, but this is one that does. 



As we begin to strive to make personal changes to lower environmental impact in our everyday lives, we see this also extend to interior design. And this covers a lot of ground: from energy-saving options to recycled or pre-loved pieces 






Organic Forms and Textures


Now, this is an interesting one In the past couple of years, many have reevaluated their priorities and rediscovered their love for the indoors. Using organic shapes, such as curves and arches, and textures, such as stone and wood, in design has become quite popular. 



Perhaps it is so well-liked because this is a trend that can fit a number of different personal styles and tastes. Contemporary kitchens are now seeing marble as a sought-after backsplash or countertop option, whilst furniture with soft curves is being increasingly popular. In any case, this trend doesn’t seem to be going anywhere anytime soon.


Rooms, Now With A New Purpose


For those lucky enough to have additional space in their homes, or the time to renovate, we’re seeing rooms being given a new light. 


This is another trend that has grown out from the pandemic, as many were taking up new hobbies or picked up old ones. Now we’re seeing spaces being transformed into office spaces, crafting or work rooms, designated exercise or play areas, and so much more. 






The “Aesthetic”


Previously, hyper-specific categories for fashion, art, and design were a relatively niche concept, shared within the circles of younger generations. Recently, however, this trend has sort of broken through and become more recognized—and certain elements (textures, colors, etc.) have become trendy, especially as we seem to always take inspiration from previous decades



Terms like “light/dark academia” or “cottagecore” are some that you’ve likely heard of. While this will likely never be mainstream, we are seeing more and more people steer away from minimalism, and instead craft their own alternative (perhaps chaotic to some) style.



Searching for a dream home in the Santa Cruz County area for 2023? Get in touch with Lauren Spencer, the Santa Cruz real estate expert, today

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    <pubDate>Fri, 16 Dec 2022 12:00:00 -0800</pubDate>
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        <author>lauren@laurenspencer.com (Lauren Spencer)</author>
        <title>Holiday Events in Santa Cruz 2022</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



December is here, which means that the holidays are just around the corner Although this is meant to be a time full of love and joy, we often end up rather stressed out. Make sure to take some time for yourself and your family this holiday season… and what better way to do that than to experience some of the fun events in Santa Cruz?



There are numerous holiday events happening around Santa Cruz County this month—and you don’t want to miss out Here are some of our top picks for the must-see events leading up to the holidays.


Winter Wonderland at the Santa Cruz Boardwalk


The annual boardwalk Winter Wonderland event is now on This year it’s running from November 24th, 2022 to January 1st, 2023. 



With festive decorations, themed rides and events, and exclusive shopping opportunities, this is a family-friendly event worth dropping by for. With two ticket packages available, you can take photos with Santa, eat delicious s’mores cooked right over the fire, watch classic holiday movies, and see special performances.



This event is only running between the hours of 12pm and 5pm, on particular days.  Find out more and book passes here. 


The Nutcracker Ballet


The annual Nutcracker performances are back again Enjoy the classic ballet set to Tchaikovsky’s gorgeous score, with two separate performances, presented by the International Academy of Dance and the Santa Cruz Ballet Theatre.



The Santa Cruz Ballet Theatre is proud to present their rendition of The Nutcracker, and are celebrating their 20th year of the production. Featuring pre-professional dancers and live music, this show runs from December 10th to 11th at the Civic Auditorium in downtown Santa Cruz. Purchase tickets here.



The International Academy of Dance production will show at the Cabrillo College Crocker Theatre in Aptos, and will feature dancers all the way from beginner level to professionals. Running twice daily only on December 17th and 18th, you don’t want to miss this wonderful event. Purchase tickets here.


Santa Cruz Holiday Lights Train


The Santa Cruz Holiday Lights Train by Roaring Camp takes riders from the Santa Cruz Boardwalk up to the beautiful forest at Pogonip. Riders of all ages will enjoy the 60-minute trip 



This event begins November 25th and runs until December 23rd. Standard and first class tickets are available for purchase, with three trains departing per night. Learn more and grab tickets here.



The Santa Cruz Holiday Parade


One of the biggest hits with families, the Santa Cruz Holiday Parade is happening on December 3rd this year. The parade begins at 10am and goes until noon—and always daws a big crowd. Plus, you’ll get to see Santa Claus himself at the end.



Experience all the magic in this free, downtown event. Learn more by clicking here.



Of course, if you want to make sure that everything you want is on your wishlist this year, Santa Cruz hosts Visits with Santa every Saturday and Sunday in December, from 12pm to 4pm, plus December 22nd and 23rd. You can learn more here.



There’s always fun and excitement in Santa Cruz County Thinking of making the move here? Contact Lauren Spencer today to find your dream home

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    <pubDate>Thu, 01 Dec 2022 09:00:00 -0800</pubDate>
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