Blog – Lark Artisan Market

May 12, 2025May 12, 2025

Q+A with Lawrence Fodor & John Rochester | DTLA, CA

We are thrilled to create, collaborate and elevate with the inspirational Photographer + Painter Lawrence Fodor & his charismatic husband John Rochester. Soon we’ll be gathering around the communal table, once again, in their 1908 Artist Loft amongst the vibrant energy of DTLA. The beauty of lark is that we can easily invite you along through our images & stories. Take a dive below the surface with the following Proust inspired questionnaire with our hosts.

Note from Lawrence: John was super busy traveling for work this past week, so in the name of efficiency and timeliness, I improvised for him. After almost 30 years together, I should be able to answer most of these questions for him! If not, something is definitely wrong!

Where did you each grow up and where do you live now?

LF: I grew up in Southern California, while John grew up in Northern New Mexico. We now live and work both in Los Angeles, and Santa Fe, New Mexico—where we both have roots and deep connections.

What is your favorite childhood memory?

LF: Hmmm…. tough! Rickie Lee Jones said something to the effect of how the traumatic events in our lives creates more indelible marks on our psyche than the good stuff, and I totally agree. Perhaps discovering Vincent Van Gogh’s paintings in a book in my aunt’s home… or getting my first camera? Which did not happen without its share of drama! For John, maybe getting his first horse. He grew on an Arabian horse farm.

We feel like you put a lot of thought into how you live your lives both careful & carefree.

LF: We both work hard so that we can play hard—like taking six-week trips traveling through France, Italy, and Spain visiting museums, discovering incredible places to stay, walking cities, hiking through magnificent natural environments, and the most important part: finding new amazing bottles of rosé to drink every day. My strong suit is intuition, John’s is intellectual, and while our work couldn’t be more different, (he works in the financial world), our play, which is primarily travel, is a total collaboration of spontaneous discovery within a loosely structured itinerary providing plenty of room for improvisation.

Is there a moment you can pinpoint that inspired your lifestyle in your youth?

LF: Complicated question for me! Parts of my childhood were quite rough, but my parents were super supportive of my need to find a way to express myself through the visual arts, so they provided me with art supplies, cameras, and film whenever I asked for them—which was all the time! Art was my salvation, something I could disappear into, my safe place, and I think they realized that from the beginning.

I know John intended to be a Vet, but took an accounting/ranch management class in college and was hooked into the financial management world.

When we met, we were leading very different lives, but over the years we’ve influenced each other for sure. I’ve loosened up his style and he’s tightened up mine!

Where do you find inspiration?

LF: Nature, museums, the perspective through which I view the world and life, digging into the deeply personal to discover the universal, and my family. And John: cooking, gardening, and reading for sure! It is his obsession—when he is not working.

What words do you use to describe L.A. to people in Santa Fe?

LF: L.A. is a city of stark contrasts. It is scattered, divided, and dispersed, grey, congested, active, diverse, buzzing, loud, frustrating, and harsh, but stimulating, busy, fun, and can be incredibly beautiful at times. It is good to have some “edge” in my life—keeps me on my toes.

What words do you use to describe Santa Fe to people in L.A.?

LF: Clear, clean, wild, spacious, dynamic, green in summer, brown and white in winter, community oriented, and super friendly. The city sits on a bed of quartz, so healing is a big deal there, but it is harsh too. Santa Fe forces one to deal with their shit, or it spits you out.

What perspectives or unique understandings have been gained from living in an Artist Loft?

LF: Acquiring this specific space was intentional. A live/work space was crucial for a “second home” eliminating the need for a separate studio. I wake up and look at my work and the last thing I do before I go to sleep is look at my work. I am always looking, finding, and attempting to really see that which wants to reveal itself through my work. My life is my work, and my work is my life, so having an incredibly supportive partner that is thoroughly on board for this kind of live/work loft space/situation has been as important as anything.

Who is the chef at home?

LF: John for sure! He went to Culinary Art Institute to study cooking, almost became a chef himself, so he knows what he is doing in a kitchen, much more so than do I. I’m a hack… I can get by, but nothing that is beyond basic and simple. Ask me for chicken tacos, ask John for miso glazed Chilean Sea Bass.

What is your most prized ingredient?

LF: Pomegranate seeds. Love them! I could put them in any dish. And for John, probably too many to choose just one—but he loves herbaceous ingredients.

If you could dine with anyone, dead or alive, who would it be?

LF: Michelangelo Buonarroti, for sure. For John, I would guess Charles Dickens, it’s that literary thing.

What is the best thing about dinner parties?

LF: Both John and I love engaging in a lively conversation while sharing a great meal, meeting new people, learning new things, and all the while drinking a bottle or two of a really great rosé.

What is your idea of happiness?

LF: Again, super complicated. Waking up every morning and being able to pursue what I most love to do: painting, gardening, traveling, swimming, long walk/runs with our Aussie Shepherd, and for John – I’m going to say hanging out on a sofa or hammock reading. And maybe cooking a great meal. Oh, traveling, for fun, too!

What are your most marked characteristics?

LF: Hmmm… I’m not going to touch this one…

If you could enjoy another profession, what would it be?

LF: Architecture, definitely. I studied it in college, did architectural drafting to get by when I first moved to Santa Fe, designed a remodel for our house and studio in Santa Fe, and think all the time about designing and building a new place there.

John would be a chef—that I know.

Have you watched or read anything interesting lately?

LF: I’m listening to Rickie Lee Jones read her autobiography, Last Chance Texaco. It is remarkably poignant, engaging, scary, sad, hilarious, brilliantly honest, tragic, happy, and sweetly touching. She reveals herself through sharing her emotional motivations for her music, her story telling, her characters, and all the decisions in living her life to the fullest. No excuses. No regrets. And it is a miracle she survived it all! She is my hero! And for John, he reads non-stop, so probably best to ask him that at dinner!

Films: the Conclave. It is relevant, timely, and very well-acted, and my life was headed in that direction at one time. While I’m definitely no longer a practicing Catholic, the ritual and secrecy are utterly compelling—but not the dogma, herd mentality, the “hook”, nor the conservative base.

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We always say this, but it is true—it’s always about he people you meet along the way! We can’t wait to share some great food & a glass of great rose as the connections + conversations unfold at the communal table.

Join us for lark 79—Friday 5/16/24—as we gather around the communal table at the
1908 Artist Loft of Lawrence Fodor & John Rochester in DTLA w/the talented
Chef Kyle Powers.

Here we’ll enjoy welcome drinks + mingling, soak up the creative vibes (& rooftop views ), share a curated dining experience. and—best of all—partake in the (rediscovered) art of conversation.

Modern. Organic. Inspirational. Social Dining.

Come on a lark with us!

Purchase Tickets: Let’s Go On A Lark!

Open invite. Limited seats.

April 21, 2025May 12, 2025

Q+A with Artist Cyndi Finkle | Hollywood, CA

The most beautiful thing about Cyndi Finkle (and you have to say her full name) is the way she moves through the world. She is not a woman afraid to take up space. Rightfully enjoying all that is hers and inviting others into her world at play. How amazing is it that we can easily invite you on our adventure through these Proust inspired dinner party questions? Enjoy!

Cyndi Finkle captured by Christine Harris

Where did you grow up and where do you live now?

I grew up in up in Burbank, California! My ancestors came here in 1848 and I am a 6th generation California girl.

I currently live in a loft in Hollywood.

Is there a moment you can pinpoint that inspired you about art/design/lifestyle in your youth?

When I was a sophomore in college, I studied abroad in London and traveled all over Europe. This set the trajectory for how I wanted to live my life, eat, travel, explore, expand, and surround myself with art, good food, and culture.

We know you love to travel, how do you choose your destinations?

I have an ongoing list of places I want to travel to. I spent a month in Greece when I was 19 years old and it has been calling me back so I expect to get back there soon. In the past few years I have been to Thailand, Bali, Norway, Mexico, and New Zealand. I am dying to get to Japan!

We introduce you as a Performance Artist, was this intentional or was it realized?

It was absolutely realized. I started doing this 365 headstand project during lockdown and was planning to create a coffee table book. It was my daughter who told me to up-level the project and told me what I was doing was performance art. She encouraged me to find better locations and create collaborations with other artists. Thinking of doing headstands as a performance artist gave me courage to embody my mission without the confines of worrying about being in anybody’s way .

What is the most interesting location / outfit / story? This can be answered in three parts!

On my 53rd birthday, I went to the Brooklyn Bridge (my favorite place in NY) at 5:30 in the morning and it was 53 degrees out. I stripped down to a gold bikini and gold heels to photograph a headstand at sunrise on the mostly empty bridge.

This gold bikini and gold heels have become a staple in my travels, headstands, and costumes!

Another epic accomplishment was doing a headstand on a surfboard in the ocean in Mexico and South Africa.

What perspectives were achieved from committing to this practice for 365 days? Can you take us through some motions/highlights?

Having an ongoing inspired project ignited creativity and resourcefulness in that I learned apps, set up a photo studio in my loft for 3 months, and was always on the lookout for a potential location!

About 6 months in, I hit a wall of creativity where I was afraid I had run out of ideas and wondered how I was going to accomplish another 6 months of art. So I started brainstorming and had this vision of an actual (cattle) brand.

I sent a photo to a company and they created an actual headstand branding iron that I use on steaks, breads, leathers, and bamboo plates.

After that, the ideas started flowing again and I was taught that sometimes it is good to step back and envision the bigger picture or to dive in to the meaning to find direction to keep going:

Your daughter is an artist how did you nourish her talent?

She starting drawing and painting when she was really little. She took art classes at a studio and when that studio came up for sale, I bought it and opened a second studio.

She took classes there, taught there, and ultimately became a mentor for a 12 year old girl in NY who was working on a portfolio.

She got her degree from NYU in Collaborative Arts and then began doing artist residencies around the world. She is currently creating a body of work and paints daily.

Check out her Instagram @sullycmultiverse

Where did you love for food come from?

When I lived in NY in my 20’s, a group of us did these Sunday night dinners. I loved feeding people, exploring recipes, and gathering. I continued the Sunday night dinners in Los Angeles hosting dinners for 50 people every six weeks. People who came to those dinners, told me I could do it professionally. I started my catering and craft services company in 1997 and built it for 17 years. I opened my cafe in 2012 and sold Sunday night dinner in 2014. I love hosting brunches and dinners regularly.

Can you tell us about your magic pot?

My magic pot is a cast iron Dutch oven that belonged to my great grandmother. Everything I make in it turns out perfect-pot roast, chicken, vegetables.

If you could dine with anyone, dead or alive, who would it be?

Anthony Bourdain.

What is your idea of happiness?

A peaceful life with good food, books to read, amazing people in my orbit, and freedom to travel and explore.

Have you watched or read anything interesting lately?

I loved the book by Gary Lightbody of Snow Patrol on the making of their new album The Forest Is The Path. He talks about losing his father and how grief ultimately gave him back his inspiration for song writing and performing. He seems to have forged a healing path through his music.

Do you have an opinion trio of gals traveling together on The White Lotus (if you saw it!).

I loved them. I know them. I truly appreciated how in the end, theirs was the happy ending instead of magnifying their differences, their history, love, and individuality is what makes their friendship special and long lasting.

What’s next on the horizon?

Outside the window of my loft is a big construction pit where they plan to build an 3 story office building. Over the past 5 years, they have torn down buildings, dug a put, constructed a parking structure ( which blocked my view of the Hollywood sign) and now abandoned the project. A few months ago, I planted wildflowers and sunflower seeds in the piles of dirt, cement, and rubble. They are blooming and growing and I can’t wait to do a headstand out there with sunflowers, graffiti, dirt, and gumption.

Thank you for opening your doors to lark! We are honored to collaborate with you and share your story! We can’t wait to see what conversations unfold at the communal table.

Modern. Organic. Inspirational. Social Dining.

Come on a lark with us!

Sunday, April 27, 2025, 5:30pm-8:30pm
$189. per person, all-inclusive good vibes
+ four course meal & wine pairing

Purchase Tickets: Let’s Go On A Lark!
(non-refundable/absolutely transferrable)

✚ ✚ ✚ Menu By Chef Matthew Roberts of True North Social Club ✚ ✚ ✚

Welcome Drinks by Eric Kassel & Chef’s Whim Snacks

Beet Cured Mt. Lassen Trout
beet gazpacho | rhubarb | creme fraiche
+ paired w/2023 Craft Works Pinot Grigio

A Salad of Favas & Peas
tendrils & leaves | fresh ricotta | preserved meyer lemon | cacao dukkah
+ paired w/2023 Rider Estates Sauvignon Blanc

Wild Mushroom Polenta
piñon salsa macha | stepladder creamery aged cabrillo
+ paired w/2018 Yount Mill House Pinot Noir

Strawberry & Guajillo Empanada
cajeta | smoked sea salt
+ paired w/2025 Wilsons Organic Cold Brew Coffee

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Open invite. Limited seats.

March 27, 2025March 27, 2025

Q+A with Designer Laura Brophy | Costa Mesa, CA

When you’re an entrepreneur you can easily find solace and support in another. For this, and because she has been on a few larks of her own, we are thrilled to collaborate with Designer Laura Brophy . We queued up these fun dinner party questions at share so that you can easily come along!

Image of Laura Brophy, compliments of @brophymarket

How do you introduce yourself?

Hi, I am Laura it’s so great to meet you. I’m obsessed with what you do.

Is there a continuum between your business and personal life?

Very very connected. Life, design & clients? Integrated – all of it!

Where did you get your penchant for all things design?

As a kid I attended fashion shows with both of my parents. Then when just old enough work, I did an internship at an upholstery shop where I met my mentor Elaine. She was the one who noticed my enthusiasm for design and encouraged me to look into The Interior Design Institute in Newport Beach. I started with their Certificate Program and then continued on to their 4 year program.

What element of design do you feel makes the biggest impact on a space?

Lighting shapes everything. It adds soul, texture, and can keep you calm.

What is a simplest / most overlooked thing anyone can do to improve the aesthetic of their home?

Clutter. Edit. Clear your surfaces!

What is your earliest memory of impacting design?

Upholstery can transform objects. You don’t have to throw things away. You can make things generational.

What was your first job, does anything you experienced there apply today?

My first job was working at TOGO’s, I am a good sandwich maker!

What led to you interest in fashion?

It’s fun how to see how people express themselves. You can tell a person’s personality by what they wear. With interior design, I see rooms the way people see outfits.

If you could have any other profession, what would it be?

A high-end Dog Walker. Dogs are always happy to see you & love you all the time.

We know you like to gather, where did this idea to host resonate?

The environment & the energy. It’s a beautiful thing to bring people together. I crave that.

How did you hear about lark?

Word of mouth, back in the day. I was shopping for a client when I was pulled aside and told this was something that might interest me. The story begins there.

Do you have a favorite lark memory?

What makes a lark so cool is that each one is a little different.

And the guerrilla lark at Pirates Cove was so fun, we were delighted when the tide came in!

Any travel coming up?

Yes, Poland to visit Graff and then Spain with Cosentino… and FIVE unknown unfolding days in-between!

Do you have an example on how travel has impacted your design?

Travel always awakens my senses.

Think of plaster on the walls, the use of tiles and natural light filtering in.

It’s about the feeling…paying attention to what makes you feel good, then figuring out how to recreate that feeling.

Why scallops (the design aesthetic)?

I think there is some whimsy to scallops and it feels historical. It’s a classic detail that makes you happy—it’s a bunch of happy faces.

Modern. Organic. Inspirational. Social Dining.

Come on a lark with us!

Friday 3/28/25 at Laura’s well styled marketplace + atelier known as Brophy Market w/the talented Chef Kyle Powers in West Side Costa Mesa!

Join us for welcome drinks + mingling, be inspired by the gorgeous environs, share a curated dining experience. and—best of all—partake in the (rediscovered) art of conversation.

Brophy Market
1727 Superior Ave.
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
(17th Street x Superior/Newport Beach Blvd.)

Hop over to our main page for more details!

November 10, 2024November 12, 2024

Q+A with Jasmina Jaskovic of CASA CDM | Corona del Mar, CA

We love to set our communal table in inspirational spaces where people can easily connect through food, wine & design. As with all our lark locations, there is an underlying familiarity that bridges creatives—and we knew in an instance that we wanted to create + collaborate with the founder of this well styled space.

In this fun Proust inspired questionnaire we gain insight to Jasmina Jaskovic’s background, inspiration, and meaning behind her creative endeavor known as CASA CDM an inviting gallery of chosen art & objects anchoring the north end of Corona del Mar.

Jasmina Jaskovic Founder of CASA CDM in Corona del Mar, CA

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Where did you grow up and where do you live now?

I was born and grew up in Fallingbostel, Germany. And I now live with my family in Corona del Mar, California.

Why did you open the gallery?

To show my love for craftsmanship through local artists and objects that have character and meaning—and build a community around it.

What is the most enjoyable thing about your profession?

Working with artists, challenging myself, and working with and guiding customers/clients by educating and nurturing their own style.

Is there a moment you can pinpoint that inspired you about art/design in your youth?

My culture, travel, and my mother had the most impact on me. My mother taught me and showed me what true craftsmanship was. At such a young age I was creating… always drawing, rearranging my room, sewing clothes for my dolls, and always expressly myself.

What do people most overlook when it comes to choosing artwork/objects for their space?

Most people believe all things need to match or have theme.

Art and Objects do not need to fit in a mold.

Special pieces are always relatable.

If you had followed another career path, what would it be?

I would be an Attorney fighting for Human Rights.

Are you a foodie?

I love a thoughtful, beautiful, and delicious meal.

Can you visually describe your idea of the perfect dinner party?

A curated tablescape filled with vintage glassware, flatware, and handmade ceramics. Dishes plated “family style” accompanied by a bold glass of Cabernet and, most importantly, enjoyed with a few close friends.

What is the representation/focus for the gallery?

CASA CDM is proud to be a vessel of local artists.

What is the one thing you want people to know about CASA CDM?

I would like everything I do, for artist and customers, to reflect my character and values.

Have you read or watched anything good lately?

Yes, may I recommend The Perfect Couple and Bad Monkey?

What is your idea of perfect happiness?

My children being happy and healthy

We have a feeling like fashion, who are your favorite designers?

Jil Sander, The Row, and a whole lot of vintage.

College for pursing a Creative role such as yours, yay or nay?

I am all for school. Do you necessarily need it…? Overall, I feel any advanced education couldn’t hurt.

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Modern. Organic. Inspirational. Social Dining.

Come on a lark with us!

Friday, 11/15/24, w/the talented Chef Matthew Roberts

Although this lark is sold out, we invite you to come along through our images & stories.

September 4, 2024September 8, 2024

Q+A with Stylist Christina Peterson | Huntington Beach, CA

Lark has always been “talent forward” whereas we work shoulder to shoulder with like-minded creatives to make things happen. We love to invite people to put their own spin on the lark—and that leads us to introduce Curator + Stylist Christina Peterson. Take a dive below the surface to learn more about her with these Proust inspired dinner party questions:

Christina Peterson captured on a guerrilla lark/creative sesh in Corona del Mar by James (Huddy) Huddleson

Where did you grow up?

I grew up in Cerritos, California (shout out to C-Town!) and spent my early adulthood in Los Angeles. I later settled in Surf City aka Huntington Beach.

Have you always liked style & design?

Absolutely! I’ve been obsessed with style and design ever since I tried to coordinate my crayons by color as a kid. Let’s just say, my coloring book was the most fashionable one in the class!

Any early memories in this realm that tie in with lark?

I’ll never forget the days of transforming my bedroom into my makeshift cafe, complete with menu options written in crayon. Nowadays, lark dinner parties are a bit more sophisticated, but the spirit of fun still remains.

Are you the chef at home?

Absolutely! I’m the head chef, sous chef, and the dishwashing staff too. My kitchen, my rules—unless someone else is cooking, then it’s their domain.

What is your prize ingredient?

It’s always better with butter.

Has the way you entertain evolved based on your experience with lark?

I’m all about those homey vibes and throwing dinner parties that are a mix of pretty and totally unexpected – just like a lark!

Any favorite food memories?

One of my fondest food memories is watching my mom expertly craft lumpia, a beloved Filipino dish that holds a special place in my heart.

Can you describe your perfect day?

Going to watch a Dodgers game.

Who would you like to dine with—if you could choose anyone in the world?

Issa Rae

What inspires you?

Architecture and real, down-to-earth conversations with genuine people light me up. Beautiful buildings and authentic vibes—my favorite combo of inspiration.

What is your most marked creative characteristic?

Fashion is where I leave my most vivid creative footprint, expressing myself through color and style with every outfit.

Christina Peterson captured by @candacerockphoto on a lark at The Sunlight House in Newport Beach

How does one benefit from attending a lark?

Attending a lark offers not just a meal, but a rich social connection, shared experiences, and newfound friendships.

What advice do you give someone wanting to throw their own dinner party?

My top tip? Set the vibe! Your energy sets the tone, so keep it fun and easygoing. The food matters, but the good times you create matter even more!

Christina Peterson captured by @candacerockphoto on a guerrilla lark in CdM

Any fun or interesting stories to share behind-the-scenes lark?

There were so many comical mishaps and funny moments BTS of larks that trying to remember them or even list them all would require an entire evening of storytelling and laughter.

What alternative occupations have you entertained, real and imagined?

From lifeguarding to coaching swimmers to navigating the choppy waters of advertising, I’ve done it all. Now, as a full-time Mom, my days are a whirlwind of school runs, sports practices and games, and navigating the joys and challenges (and boy, are there challenges!) of parenting through the teenage years.

We know you love music, whose first on your playlist?

John Mayer‘s music is like a musical embrace for my soul.

What is your motto?

Love + Learn.

Christina Person captured on a super fun (& delicious) lark at The Salt Horse in Laguna Beach by @missmphotography

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Christina is always up for a lark and can give us fashion inspiration weeks in advance OR on-the-fly. Her staple advice? Wear what makes you feel good—and add bold lip!

Modern. Organic. Inspirational. Social Dining.

Come on a lark with us!

August 19, 2024August 19, 2024

Q+A with Maker Jan McCarthy | Newport Beach, CA

We are thrilled to share this Q + A with Friend / Creative / Artist & Maker Jan McCarthy who we met through a fellow creative (on a lark). Jan is buzzing with a million fun + creative ideas that she puts into action one way or another whether it be product, activity, art, or an amazing adventure—and you are bound to be as captivated and excited about as she is. Come along on our adventure as we take a dive “below the surface” with these Proust inspired dinner party questions:

We love your drive, energy, and ideas! Is this all yours OR a family trait?

We can’t help but be influenced by family traits, but I think it also comes as a natural response to curiosity, exploration, adventure and the constant desire to form community and enjoy life.

In a world that can be challenging, how do you continue to nurture your curiosity?

Challenges encourages curiosity. Life unfolding raises the bar to seek a deeper meaning or take things to a higher level.

You describe yourself as a maker rather than an artist, what is the story behind that statement?

Maker encompasses everything and that is me. I’m not content to just paint or attach myself to just one discipline. I am drawn to creative expression in any form which could be paintings but fashion, design, style, food, drink, or travel always have a place in my creative expression which is one reason why I instantly gravitated toward LARK dinners. I saw the maker of Lisa (the founder) in her element as she created this social gathering around food, drink and conversation and allowing others to shine and share their creative talents.

What current project(s) are you currently working on?

Planning a couple of retreats, workshops, pottery, a book, fashion………

What projects are you dreaming of?

I would love to do more licensing or collaborations around dinnerware, (plates and coffee cups come to mind), jewelry (I’m working on some pottery bracelets, and/or fashion – I would love to design some really creative pieces that elevate the vibrant woman past 50 that feels fashion is only designed for the younger crowd.

Who or what inspires you?

It sounds a little cliché but everyone and everything inspires me in some form. It could be the textured walls in Guatemala, the shimmering blue waters of the ocean here in Newport Beach, the faces of people I see that hold such incredible expression, the sticks I collect from all over the world to make handcrafted paint brushes, the architectural details I find on old buildings, colors in nature when I walk in the forest, stories I hear or explore from my own memories, the presentation of delicious food, conversations around a dinner table, and quotes I’ve heard or made up on my own.

What is your most memorable dining experience?

All LARK dinners hold a special place in my heart, and a few other communal artistic dinners I‘ve had the opportunity to join or host but there is this one place in Ibizia, and I can’t even tell you the name, but the food was so fresh and delicious, and it felt like home. The chef prepared our meal, came and sat with us and told us all about the source and inspiration, gave us tastes of wine that he personally selected….

Since you love to connect over food & wine, are you the chef at home?

Yes, but I rarely cook these days. There are so many wonderful ways to dine and enjoy the talents of others, (like going to a LARK dinner hehe).

If so, what is your most treasured ingredient and/or favorite dish?

Hmmmm, I always have lemon, rosemary, a great salt and fabulous olive oil on hand.

Favorite dish: Spaghetti Al Limone with fresh hot sourdough bread with olive oil and salt and a bottle of orange wine, and I’m good.

If you could dine with anyone in the world, who would it be?

It all comes back to treasured friends and family, interesting and creative people. Anyone famous might just disappoint me so I would rather keep my potential unrealistic vision of who they are remain intact.

We know you’re an avid reader, any new or favorite books to share?

Well, I DO love books! If you are joining us for this special LARK dinner, I will happily share my most favorite 23 books that have greatly influenced my life, inspired a million ideas or left me craving more.

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Modern. Organic. Inspirational. Social Dining.

Come on a lark with us!

Here we will enjoy drinks + mingling, breathe in the cool ocean air, share an amazing curated dining experience…and, best of all, partake in the (rediscovered) art of conversation.

Jan McCarthy
Address shared upon RSVP
Newport Beach, CA
(W. Balboa Blvd/38th Street)

Friday August 23 2024
6:30pm-9:30pm
$175. per person, all-inclusive
four course + wine pairing

Purchase Tickets: Let’s Go On A Lark!
(non-refundable / absolutely transferable)

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Welcome Cocktails by mixologist Eric Kassel
Menu by the talented Chef Kyle Powers +
Sous Chef Bryan Barnes

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Open invite. Limited seats. Endless possibilities.

July 22, 2024May 12, 2025

Q+A with Ali Aboudaya of Freelance Coffee Project | Newport Beach, CA

We wanted to dive a bit below the surface and are talking with Ali Aboudaya of Freelance Coffee Project, who we originally met when pouring the most delicious coffee at design lovers Brophy Market, to get the inside scoop. Come along for the ride as we share some fun dinner party Q & A below!

Ali Aboudaya and Head Roaster Adrian Navarro

You seem a bit of an everyman at Freelance Coffee, are we onto something?

I definitely wear multiple hats at the company! I manage operations, accounts, and work flow for the company and in any spare time I have I am working on social content, such as videos and photos for the Instagram and website!

We love that Freelance Coffee Projects brings community together and has created an aesthetically pleasing third space, which we can easily describe as “dreamy meets professional”, to support local creatives, has this always been the goal?

That was one of the main concepts for Freelance when we started it, a space where creativity can flourish. It is also a big theme in our social content as well, we have been focusing on local creatives and seeing how the relationship with creativity and coffee go hand in hand.

Freelance Coffee Project – Newport Beach, CA

We also love the design aesthetic from the architecture to soothing interiors to local artwork and especially the plants, is this a collaborate effort or is there someone to credit?

The credit here goes to Natalie Taormina, one of the founders of Freelance. She has a keen eye for design and feng shui. She curates all the design in our shop and hand picks everything to give it a true unique experience.

Relatedly, the plants really do have a positive effect on the vibe, who/how are they maintained?

We LOVE our plants and we want them to live forever, so we take good care of them! They are maintained weekly and we even have them checked routinely by a plant expert.

We see some mindful retail items, is there a standard here?

Oh yes, we love to fill our shop with the best of the best coffee brewing equipment we can find! That being said, we are about to revamp our retail experience so stay tuned for something really cool very soon.

We know FCP a wholesaler/roaster for other coffee shops/restaurants? Any new just off the ground places we can call out?

Yes!!! A new little café opened up called VIVRE, on PCH in Newport Beach ,that we have been roasting for. They have amazing food offerings and the sandwiches are so good!

What is it that people don’t realize when it comes to the coffee industry?

A lot of people don’t realize the steps it takes to get that perfect cup of coffee. There is a lot that happens behind the scenes, such as green bean sourcing, sample roasting, cupping… there is a lot of trial and error that eventually leads to that perfect cup of coffee, which is pretty cool honestly.

Your favorite coffee order or experience?

My go to coffee order is constantly changing with the season! At the moment, I am a big fan of the cortado, with a perfect balance of milk and espresso… but just last month I was only drinking batch brews.

Are you also a foodie / or chef at home?

I am a big foodie, I would say that most of my life schedule is based around what I will be eating and where… I also love to cook but it is usually on holiday occasions when I get super creative in the kitchen and make something spectacular.

What is your idea of a perfect dining experience?

To me the perfect dining experience is one that can be shared amongst friends and family in a memorable ambiance! Nothing is better to me than when the food is so good that everyone is just passing their plates around the table for everyone to get a little taste of perfection!

Love this dreamy vibe at Freelance Coffee Project – Newport Beach, CA

We love setting our communal table in inspirating locations with interesting people and opening the seats to the curious & adventurous.

Modern. Organic. Inspirational. Social Dining.

Come on a lark with us!

Saturday 7/27/24 with the Talented Chef Matthew Roberts of True North Social Club & curators: Alissa Travers, Christina Peterson, Eric Kassel, French Buckets, Luna Reece Ceramics + Styling by Jo

April 1, 2024May 12, 2025

Q+A with Artist Lorraine Pennington | Costa Mesa, CA

We fell in love with Lorraine’s Pennington‘s minimalist paintings first. It was years later that we met her, by chance, and it honestly felt like a dream-come-to-life. Since then we have supported each other from afar but recently our brief scout at her gorgeous atelier turned into hours long conversation that still lingers and evokes thought + laughter. All we can say is, if you don’t know Lorraine Pennington, you should! We are grateful to bring everyone along on our next lark through these Proust inspired dinner party questions:

Where did you grow up?

I grew up in Echo Park with a musician father and mother who encouraged being artistic.

What is your favorite places to visit?

I really love Italy, France and Spain.

When did you decide to become an artist?

I feel like I have always been drawn to creating…I enjoyed designing jewelry and tabletop accessories like a very large wall necklace I sold at A’MAREE’S and at Garde in Los Angeles.

Art School yay or nay?

No. I didn’t go to art school.

We love your paintings and can easily describe it as peaceful, serene, organic…can you share any other cool or fun descriptions you’ve heard?

I have heard the words Wabi-sabi and Calming.

One of the best compliments was a client told me, who had one of my painting in their bedroom that they loved waking up and seeing my artwork, it put them in a good mood. I am a very positive person so my art has that energy.

We also love your jewelry which speaks so much to your aesthetic, you are no longer making but can you share any photos for us to swoon over?

I still design a few pieces of jewelry but I don’t do retail anymore.

I love that people that bought my jewelry tell me they still wear it after buying it 8 years ago.

It is still the only jewelry I wear.

What is your idea of a great dining experience?

My idea of a great dining experience is having people you enjoy with great music and lighting and of course amazing food and drinks.

Are you the chef at home?

Yes I really enjoy cooking, I usually never use a recipe.

What is you most coveted ingredient?

Fresh herbs and salt. My favorite food is sushi.

Any interesting stories of where your paintings have landed?

My paintings have been in a few magazines…recently I was at my moms looking at her magazines and I opened a house beautiful and saw my artwork. I think almost every time my work has been published I found out by surprise opening up the magazine. I have sold art throughout United States. My favorite is when I get to see where the artwork is going in their home so local is always nice.

We would find it hard to “let go” of something so beautiful, how do reconcile with parting with your art?

Yes, I find it hard to let certain pieces of artwork go. I usually hide a few I am not ready to part with!

What is your idea of perfect happiness?

I find that perfect happiness comes when you are fully present, and not expecting anything from the moment.

Any current books, shows or music you are enjoying?

I love to read and read a lot. I have been reading /studying Breaking The Habit Of Being Yourself by Joe Dispenza very intriguing book. I also read a lot of fiction.

I really enjoy going to the library since I was a little kid so books are a big part of my life. I still like to hold a book in my hand and use a handmade bookmark so no kindle for me.

I try not to watch a lot of TV but on the weekends I do watch some like we just finished Succession and I watched Yellowstone.

Music is another big deal for me I like a lot of different artist. One that comes to mind that I have listened to lately is Khruanghin.

Lark imagery by @missymphotograhy & all others compliments of Lorraine Pennington.

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Modern. Organic. Inspirational. Social Dining. Come on a lark with us!

Lark #73 x Lorraine Pennington x Chef Matthew Roberts

We were honored to set the communal table, April 10, 2024, with our favorite minimalist artist @lorrainepennington at her beautiful + inviting atelier in West Side Costa Mesa. 

Here we enjoyed welcome drinks & mingling, delighted in the beauty of imperfection, shared a chef curated dining experience and—best of all—partook in the (rediscovered) art of conversation.

March 13, 2024June 20, 2024

Q + A with The Sunlight House | Newport Beach, CA

With lark, it is always about the people you meet along the way! We are thrilled to introduce the enthusiastic, whole hearted and innovative Wendy Leithem owner of the film + video design haven known as The Sunlight House ☀️ where we will soon be setting our communal table to enjoy food, wine, design & partake in the (lost) art of conversation. Come along with us as we take a dive below the surface by way of these fun dinner party questions:

Where are you from and where do you live now?

I grew up on a farm in Yuma Arizona, and now live in Newport Beach. Newport Beach is where I raised my 3 boys and has tons of great memories.

What is your earliest design-related experience?

In my younger years I would always laugh as I could not even draw a stick man. I never even knew I had any creative ability until I bought my first beach house in my 40’s. I was always an athlete and had corporate jobs.

Sports: In high school and below, I played everything I could get my hands on. Volleyball, basketball, softball, I even competed in horse Jr Rodeo competitions (my dad was a professional rodeo cowboy). I also played flag football. After college I attempted to play pro beach volleyball, but it did not work out.

We love how you created The Sunlight House to not only be a warm + inviting home but also a commercial shoot location—and now you are opening it to lark! You are always open and growing, what is your secret?

Usually by dumb luck! I have been super fortunate to work with people that have really taught me about manifesting and creating my dream life. Some trial and error for sure. All my endeavors just get more fun and more fun with meeting amazing people along the way.

Since so many film shoots have happened at The Sunlight House—is there one or two fun/cool experiences to share?

The first that comes to mind was a shoot with Kareem Abdul Jabbar. What a treat. He was shooting a Pharma ad and his team was amazing.

The 2nd was probably being asked to have my sweet yellow lab Maddie be part of a shoot. I quickly learned how to be a “dog handler” on set. It was hilarious. After the 10th take she actually began to stop on her mark. I was nervous, but she was a rock star.

Thanks Maddie cakes!

What should people know about designing inviting spaces? Is there one easy “must do” tip you can give them?

I always want people to “feel” joy and light energy in any space I create. I want them to feel like they would love to hang out, invite friends over and just really feel a lightness of being from any space I create.

You have two enterprises going at the same time with Hang3 which launched earlier this year (congrats!). Can you elaborate on the underlying inspiration to support local artists?

Hang 3 is another endeavor I stumbled upon. I had a collection of my own shots from all over the world and one day I began putting them together. I then contacted some local incredible photographers from all different talents and asked for some of their favorite heart filled work and Hang3 was born. I now shoot my own images as well as recruit painters/photographers and help to broker their work to the design trade and all over. It has and is currently a wonderful learning experience.

Inspiring artwork now available at Hang3shop.com

We feel their is an expression or feeling you want to share with your endeavors? Are we onto something?

As I grow older, I find that creative endeavors and using my own creative unique gifts and sharing it with others brings me the most joy. (Besides my amazing 3 boys of course). I feel absolutely blessed to be able to do what I love and also make wonderful revenue streams

We know you enjoy curating spaces and entertaining, are you the chef at home?

Ha! My 3 boys might challenge this, but I have started to really enjoy cooking and wine pairing as I have gotten older. Sampling food from around the world and having unique eating opportunities has been so much fun.

What ingredient can you not live without?

Tequila and my hot tea! Any type of fish and Mexican food comes in at a close 2nd.

Who, if anyone in the world, would you most like to dine with?

There are so many…but today it would be Leanne Ford the designer.

Her effortless creative style is so inspiring.

What is your most marked characteristic?

Always finding the silver lining or positive in a situation, no matter how dire it may seem at the time. The universe is always teaching us something for our highest good.

Design or Business school?

I actually have an MBA from my corporate days. It has helped me tremendously in my real estate investing and running my businesses. Design school probably would not have been for me. I always have to be out in the world learning.

What not so obvious thing should people know about being an entrepreneur?

All the mistakes that lead you to your right path. I think also sometimes being terrified but doing it anyway.

What word or phrase do you most over-use?

Embarrassingly, the F word can fly out of my mouth a bit when I least expect it during last minute issues or running behind for a deadline. I would also say “everything is always working out” and “you got this”.

What is your idea of a perfect day?

A wonderful morning meditation, a beautiful ocean hike with my wonderful girlfriends, time spent with all 3 of my boys (they are now all older and getting them all 3 together is super hard now with them on different parts of the country). Ending with a fabulous meal, my boys/ friends or any creative souls.

Who are your heroes?

First would be my 3 boys…they are amazing and handle any challenge that comes their way like gladiators. Second would be my amazing Uncle Clayton Kiewel. We just lost him. He was the patriarch in our family and the man/person we all aspired to be.

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Modern. Organic. Inspirational. Social Dining. Come on a lark with us!

Friday 3/22/24 w/the talented Chef Kyle Powers + Sous Chef Bryan Barnes!

Open invite. Limited Seats.

@letsgoonlark

January 20, 2024February 25, 2024

Q+A with Cleobella | Sunset Beach, CA

Our muse for our 1/25/24 lark at Cleobella’s gorgeous 1920’s seaside cottage can be summed up in two words: Ciao Bella!

Cleobella has outgrown their gorgeous boutique, on PCH in Sunset Beach, and the time has come for release but not without gratitude and a proper goodbye.

In the beginning the boutique served as an oasis where the dream + determination behind Cleobella came together as one. And over the years has delighted the community with it’s style + vibe and has also hosted many gatherings.

Because founder Angela O’Brien loves to create, collaborate & elevate, our gathering is an opportunity to honor the idea of chasing one’s dream and paving a path that empowers others.

We are thrilled to set our communal table with Cleobella—and we invite you along as we dive below the surface with our (ode to Proust) dinner party questionnaire with “Ange”:

Cleobella’s Founder & Creative Director, Angela O’Brien

Where did you grow up?

I grew up Huntington Beach, California.

Have you always been into fashion & style?

Yes! Ever since I can remember I loved dressing up, whether it was dolls, my brothers or myself. It’s when I feel most alive…I step into a creative portal and I get lost. My high school days were spent modeling and that exposed me to the fashion world and travel and gave me a deeper appreciation for the art of fashion. I am an avid vintage shopper, and I find inspiration in decades from the past, its like a history lesson for me. I often describe it as a treasure hunt to spend the day searching for something that sparks the next design detail on our latest collection. I pinch myself that this is my job:-)

Can you remember your earliest inspiration (people/books/places/experiences)?

My earliest inspiration is shopping with my Grandmother…she’s a professional shopper ;-)…she’s always down for the hunt and she does it with so much joy! When I was 18 I got an opportunity to have a modeling contract in Tokyo for 6 months and that’s when my true love for travel inspiration started. It was then that I was bitten by the travel bug and that has continued to be a source of inspiration for all of Cleobella’s collections.

What is your most marked creative characteristic?

I lead from the heart. Intuition drives my creativity. The journey of entrepreneurship is such a journey of self, and tapping into the truth of who we are…give us wings to fly!!!

Who are your hero’s?

My mom, Cleobelle. This is also my great grandmother’s name…I have a long lineage of Irish women in my family who possess this unique duality of feminine//strength and they inspire me daily.

Would you say food & fashion go hand in hand?

100%! I’m very sensitive energetically, and I believe in the value of creating meaningful experiences when all the senses are thoughtfully curated. The smells, the community, the atmosphere, they all raise the vibrations. I believe food should be equally beautiful and delicious and should awaken all your senses. This is why I’m so excited to partner with Lark as I know we share the same values.

We know you love a good dinner party, are you the chef at home?

I’m the chef and my husband does the dishes:-). Our daughter, Indigo, loves to cook with me. She also loves to set up a beautiful table…she has such an eye for creativity and she thoughtfully designs our dinners with fresh flowers, candles and our handmade Cleobella block printed napkins. We bake together because we love dessert!

What is your go-to meal OR most prized ingredient?

Our backyard is an edible garden. We grow herbs like sage, lavender, rosemary, and thyme. I visit our local farmers market on Sundays with the kids and pick out what’s fresh and that helps determine our meals for the week. I enjoy making soups and I love to use spices from our travels. We recently made a curry soup using spices that our team in India sent us. I’m not much for using recipes, I’m a lazy chef….I throw it in…cook for taste and serve:-)

We have always loved the look and feel of your boutique in Sunset Beach, can you tell us how you discovered it?

When my husband and I started Cleobella, we were doing business out of our home and we were spending half of the year in California and half of the year in Bali, Indonesia. At this time, our oldest, Keenan was just a baby. I wanted a separation of the work and family life. When I found this 1920’s cottage it was a grow house for marijuana and looked like a halfway house inside. I had a vision and I knew if I could renovate it, if I could sell enough handbags in the front then I could afford an office space in the back. Within 2 years we tripled our sales and outgrew the space and moved our offices to our current headquarters and design studio and fulfillment center just down the street in Huntington Beach. Our wholesale and online business began to grow and it was a dream come true.

What dream was in your heart at the time you moved in?

The dream was to build a sustainable lifestyle fashion brand that created jobs for our artisan partners and build a life that is rich in experience and travel as this is our passion.

Was there anyone instrumental in helping you transform the cottage into a dreamy + well styled boutique?

My husband, Jim O’Brien. He has always been such an amazing supporter. I have also had so many friends and family along the way who supported us from the early days when I was selling my designs at farmers markets and out of the trunk of my car….I believe in the philosophy of growing a business for good. Aligning our personal values with our professional values to support our family has been a dream come true. WE now support more that 1,200 artisan partner around the world, where we have an office in India with a talented team who brings our vision to life.

How long has the boutique donned the Cleobella sign?

11 years! Keenan, my son, was a baby and now he’s a teenager…how time flys by…when you’re having fun :-0!

We know due to time and circumstance you will be letting the space go, do you want to share more about this transition?

Cleobella is in over 500 retailers across the country including Nordstrom, Shop Bop, Revolve, Anthropologie. We are focusing on building our e-commerce business and delivering timeless, sustainably made collections. Our company has grown tremendously over the last 5 years and we have some very exciting projects ahead of us.

What is your current state of mind?

Joy. My focus is moving with flow and ease. My currency is freedom and I continue to have this as the forefront of my decision making.

Business school, yay or nay?

Nay for me, personally. Growing Cleobella has been business school for me. We started this brand with $12,000 and have grown it grass roots, and always stay curious and open to the wisdom we learn from others. This has been my business school.

What is one thing people most often don’t realize about Fashion?

I would say the time it takes to build a collection. Typically, it takes about 12 months. From concept to sketch review, then to producing and perfecting samples, from there to selling, then production. Then comes the behind the scenes stuff like marketing, telling the story, then finally the product is brought to the customer. We are always working on future collections about a year ahead. We just launched our Spring ‘24 collection while currently designing for Spring ‘25.

What advice do you find yourself most often sharing with other female business owners?

Entrepreneurship is such a journey of self when you’re curious and open hearted you will thrive. Believe in yourself and don’t compromise your values and life will happen for you in the way it’s meant to be…trust the journey.

What is your motto?

I have an optimistic point of view and I always have, it’s in my nature. I believe it’s a muscle and the more you lead with love…the more meaningful your life will become. I’ve always seen life through rose colored glasses, which is something I learned from my grandma. A positive mindset is so important to me. Sure, this is a trait that can get me into situations that I have to learn to work my way through, but that is the beauty in it. It keeps you learning and growing and for that I am forever grateful and humbled by this beautiful Cleobella world I have created with my husband, he’s my best friend and business partner. As well as our beautiful community of talented and hardworking people that have supported this dream come true.

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Thoroughly inspired, we are looking forward gathering around the communal table to enjoy a delicious chef curated meal, be warmed by each others company, and—best of all—partake in the (rediscovered) art of conversation.

Although our Thursday 1/25/24 Lark at Cleobella w/the talented Chef Matthew Roberts is sold out, we invite you to come along through our images and stories!

Modern. Organic. Inspirational. Social Dining. Come on a lark with us!