Welcome, 2025
Every year, packing up all the holiday decorations, I reminisce about the celebrations and joy of December’s holiday season. But it’s January and time to turn the page on 2024 to start with a clean slate. Happily, the days will begin to be longer and brighter again.
This issue marks our 2025 Design Trends feature. Our designers weigh in on the latest trends for your home, some of which you may have already noticed — but there are a few surprises in there! Benjamin Moore rolls out its 2025 Color of the Year, too.
Home Bars to Enhance Your Lifestyle by Molly McCabe highlights everything you need to know — the “what,” the “where,” the style and the amenities in addition to glassware, spirits, beer and wine suggestions. The Sip by Brooke Huffman features winter warmers at Western Brewery, Hood Canal Brewing, Fletcher Bay Winery and Olalla Vineyard.
Our Chefs’ Favorites by Tim Davis spotlights a local icon, Burrata Bistro and Paella Bar in downtown Poulsbo. Alfonso Valvez and Kim Tomlinson offer their take on earthy, house-made Italian fare and memorable Spanish tapas and paella.
The Sprawling Gardens of Jeannie Simmons and Tony Bartling by Peg Tillery features expansive gardens designed for year-round enjoyment. Another garden story, A Gardening Gold Mine in Poulsbo by Margaret Sweeney, offers a trip around Sam Rader’s 5 acres of transformation, combining the concept of an arboretum and a botanical garden.
West Sound’s Winter Warblers by Janine Schutt offers a much-needed dose of cheer following a gray winter day.
The Content Scout helps you discover the new Marina Square Suites. Located on a premier waterfront site, it offers luxurious comfort.
Dancing on the Canvas by Marsha Hart relates the story of Janice Tayler, a 30-year career dancer who suffered an injury, segueing to the art of painting. More art news: Don’t miss the 18th Annual Collective Vision Gallery Juried Art Show Jan. 11 through Feb. 28. It’s one of the largest and prestigious shows in the Pacific Northwest.
Speaking of artists, The Northern Giant Creative Group by Mary Beth Barrett shows how a local business brings together a collective of local talent from Bainbridge and across the Kitsap Peninsula.
Just in time — The Perfect Recipes for Your Super Bowl Party by Nicole Johnson. Give us your feedback and suggestions!
At WestSound Magazine, we are excited to begin a brand-new year, filling our editorial calendar with new and exciting local features. I am grateful to our editor, writers, photographers, graphic designers, office staff and distribution folks. And especially to you, our readers. We create a delightful, interesting, colorful magazine just for you, all year long. Thank you!
DEE COPPOLA
Founding Editorial Director
dee@wsmag.net