Member Spotlight: Sahara Scottsdale

Integral to The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale’s mission is telling the stories behind the small businesses Scouted in each Volume. The story begins in print and continues online, after all. As you peruse Volume 2, we are thrilled to continue our story-telling mission with Member Spotlights.

On lush acres northeast of Scottsdale resides a living art that offers Scottsdale a global reputation. Both a connection to Scottsdale’s rich history and that of an internationally treasured species, Sahara Scottsdale cultivates an ambitious bid for the future: the perfect Arabian horse. 

Yet, Sahara Scottsdale’s singular aim is impossible to mistake for a mere Darwinian-esque experiment. Passion fuels every aspect of their work as a privately-owned Arabian breeding, training, and marketing center. As does over 150 years of collective experience and expertise.  

Established in 2015, Sahara Scottsdale quickly became a leader in the historic, highly-competitive industry of Arabian horses. And as they prepare to show at the world’s largest competition, The Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show, we sat down for a chat about the intricacies of the industry and, more importantly, the majesty of the Arabian horse. 

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: For the uninitiated, can you speak to the history of the Arabian horse in Scottsdale?
Ally Nelson: When it comes to Arabian horses, Scottsdale has a rich history. While locals will be familiar with names like McCormick, Gainey and Chauncey? –all well-known residential communities – they might be unaware that the names hearken to the area’s largest Arabian horse farms of the 1940s. Gainey Ranch, McCormick Ranch, and even the famous Biltmore Hotel are built on what was once home to Arabian horses.

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: Tell us more…
Ally Nelson: It all began when Anne and Fowler McCormick purchased land in the early 1900s to raise Arabians. Many followed their example, and Scottsdale quickly became a mecca for the Arabian horse. And, in 1955, Scottsdale hosted the first Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show.

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: What does the Arabian horse industry look like in Scottsdale today?
Ally Nelson: The Arabian horse community is as strong as ever. In fact, Cactus Road and Arabian Park Drive are often referred to as the Rodeo Drives of Arabian horse farms. Both are home to some of the most famous farms in the world, including Royal Arabians, Midwest Station II, Orrion Farms, PCF Arabians, and of course, Sahara Scottsdale. And the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show, which first took place in 1955, is now the largest, most well-attended Arabian horse show worldwide!

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: You hinted at the importance of Scottsdale to the Arabian horse industry on a global scale. Can you speak to the international influence of Sahara Scottsdale?
Ally Nelson: Walk through the barn at Sahara Scottsdale and you will meet horses hailing from Brazil, Poland, Spain, South Africa, Israel, Dubai, and beyond. Each boasts highly individualized, highly-desirable traits that our breeding program hopes to cultivate in service of its overarching goal: to breed the perfect Arabian horse.

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: That’s an ambitious endeavor. What exactly does that entail?
Ally Nelson: When studying and purchasing horses, our goal is twofold: to identify competitive show horses that are also compatible with our breeding program. We travel to all corners of the world – from the World Championships in Paris to South America, the Middle East to North America – to procure the highest quality of exotic Arabian horses. Each spring, we welcome foals. The foals grow up in the lush pastures of our breeding farm, Sahara West, living a beautiful life. Once of age, they enter our training farm to be trained, sold, shown, or retained for the future generations of our breeding program.

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: That seems like a highly selective process, and rightfully so. Sahara Scottsdale doesn’t just raise horses, Sahara Scottsdale raises Arabians. But there's so many breeds... why Arabians? What makes them so unique?
Ally Nelson: Our owners and staff have over 150 years of collective experience with Arabians and other horse breeds. And all of us are unanimous in our opinion that the Arabian horse is the most rewarding breed to work with and produce. Arabians bond closely – more so than other breeds – with their handlers. And their history is just incredible. Did you know that all equine breeds trace back to the Arabian?

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: That’s fascinating! But, it's just one of the fascinating aspects of your industry. Let’s talk about another: showing, which we understand plays an important role. Can you touch on the competition side of Sahara Scottsdale?
Ally Nelson: While our primary focus is breeding the next generation of Arabians, showing is very enjoyable and exciting for us. We compete throughout the year. Our biggest show – and the biggest in the world – is  The Scottsdale Arabian Show, which draws 2,000 - 2500 horses each year. Other important shows for us include the U.S. Nationals, Arabian National Breeder Finals, Regional Championships, and the Arabian Breeders World Cup.

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: You speak of Arabians with such reverence. How does the breed influence the lives of those who work with them at Sahara Scottsdale?
Ally Nelson: We view these horses as living art. Arabians are the Michelangelos and Van Goghs of the equestrian world. But, beyond their beauty, we love them as a part of our family. Arabians have this unique ability to bond with humans. It’s an honor to work with such special creatures. And it’s because of this magical connection that our every decision – personal or professional – revolves around the well-being and success of our Arabians.

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: It sounds like Arabians must be experienced in person to be fully appreciated.  Is Sahara Scottsdale open to the public?
Ally Nelson: Absolutely! Sahara Scottsdale welcomes everyone. We delight in sharing the magic of these beautiful creatures. Arabians horses move our souls, and we’re sure they’ll move yours, too.

If you are interested please contact Sahara Scottsdale on Instagram @Sahara_Scottsdale, email info@saharascottsdale or call (480)980-9826.

Sahara Scottsdale is world-renowned for producing the highest-quality champion Arabian horses. To learn more, you can visit their website here and follow them on social media here to stay up to date on events and happenings! Don’t forget to tell them Scout sent you!

Member Spotlight: Tarbell's

Integral to The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale’s mission is telling the stories behind the small businesses Scouted in each Volume. The story begins in print and continues online, after all. As you peruse Volume 2, we are thrilled to continue our story-telling mission with Member Spotlights.

Photographed by Carl Schultz.

Recently, our Culinary Contributor, Marci Symington of TEXAZTASTE, met Volume 2 Member and award-winning chef, restaurateur, and TV host, Mark Tarbell, at Provision Coffee to talk culture, cooking, and culinary arts. Eager and wonderfully warm, the visionary behind Valley favorite, Tarbell’s, dished on his experience in the industry — and how he’s giving back.

Marci Symington: Mark, we hear so much about you and your work from the lips of others. We want to hear it from the man himself. Can you tell us about yourself and your business?
Mark Tarbell: So about me, I spent my formative years in a small town in New Hampshire and have lived my life with a singular passion: the food and wine business. When I was 17 years old, I decided I was going to open a restaurant. I’ve dedicated my life to the business. I feel blessed that I am still interested in food and wine. I’m still so excited to take my team to the next level and give back to an industry that’s been so good to me.

Marci Symington: Seventeen! Can you tell us about what led you to that decision at such a young age?
Mark Tarbell: I was about 2 months into an apprenticeship in Amsterdam when I realized, ‘This is it. This is what I want to do with my life.’ There was something about the energy of the kitchen and the difficulty of the kind of work. I don’t care if you are a prep cook, or on sauté, or grill, or you are the chef, it never ends and it never seems to change. You are dealing with humans, both on the staff level and the customer level, in a very intense, intimate way, so that to me has been endlessly fascinating.

When, after years in the industry, a Doctor friend, Ned Hallowell described me as someone with Attention Deficit Disorder my attraction to the energy of kitchens clicked. He considers ADD a gift, explaining that adrenaline functions as a sort of ‘natural’ Ritalin. Basically, when charged with adrenaline, those with ADD become calm. To put it succinctly, the restaurant business is adrenaline-fueled. It’s intense, complicated, and reactionary. But, I’m very calm when it’s busy: my pulse is at 60; I can see things clearly and come up with a variety of solutions within seconds. Also another suggested behavior with ADD is hyperfocus, and I have been hyper focused on this business for a very long time. 

Photographed by Carl Schultz.

Marci Symington: It seems that you were destined for the business. Let’s talk Tarbell’s. What sets it apart from other restaurants?
Mark Tarbell: Tarbell’s has been open for 28 years.  This is because of the amazing people we have here today and those who have worked here in the past.  It’s a fun, richly textured story. What a ride.

Marci Symington: From a business standpoint, to what do you attribute that longevity?
Mark Tarbell: We run Tarbell’s as if it was a large company of 4,000 employees: we have systems for training, hiring, cleaning, wine and for everything in between. When I opened, I wanted that same level of professionalism and consistency brought to every level.

Marci Symington: Many diners can overlook everything that goes into a restaurant. In many ways, it’s like a machine. And Tarbell’s is so well-oiled. Beyond the systems and training you mentioned, what goes into achieving your gold standard of professionalism and consistency?
Mark Tarbell: The company culture is very specific. It starts with our hiring process, which prioritizes chemistry. We ask questions like, ‘What’s your favorite Movie? A large part of the process is for both sides to determine if will enjoy working together’ We want to nurture a respectful, communicative, non-reactionary, polite culture. We are tough on standards and easy on people. Standards are everything and they don’t bend. And while we teach to those standards, we understand that everyone has a different path and timeline. So, as long as our people are working towards those standards with care, we’re good.

And, above all, we seek to have a “servant’s heart.” What this really means is even in the worst scenarios where someone may be a tad short, that we still are at a point of service. We are not reactionary, we don’t get mad, we diffuse, turn the frown upside down, and have the guest leave in a better place. We also understand that we are there to provide entertainment and an escape. Food and wine is just our platform. 

Photographed by Carl Schultz.

Marci Symington: After years in the industry and leading Tarbell’s, how as your approach changed?
Mark Tarbell: What is interesting now — as I gracefully go through the years — is taking a step back to let go of control and embrace surprises. For example, a team member will propose an idea, and now I’m like, ‘okay, let’s do it.” It’s about openness for me, because sometimes those ideas don’t work. And for someone who cares about not failing, I have to — and get to — let go of that, because I’ve realized there’s always something to learn and we are always stronger because of it.

Marci Symington: What is the most rewarding moment in your career? 
Mark Tarbell: I appreciate the honors I have received and the journey of my career, but I’m not wired to consider the past. It’s not that I don’t care, but I am a working guy, and when NOT AT work, I’m with my family and friends…Those are my priorities. Recently, I had a milestone birthday. I didn’t want a party, but my wife organized one. Friends, colleagues, and family were invited to give toasts, which was so unexpected, but very moving. My chef, Adrian De Leon, did such a beautiful job. As did my brother and sister. Usually I would be hiding in a corner because I don’t want it to be about me, but for the first time I feel I accepted that and I listened. That was nice.

Marci Symington: Are there culinary heroes that you have looked up to throughout your career?
Mark Tarbell: There have been a number over the years: in France, there is Michel Guerard, Marc Meneau, Alain Ducasse, and Alain Sanderens. In this country, there is Michel Richard, the originator of Molecular Gastronomy, a pastry chef by training who had Citrus in LA and Citronelle in DC. He was the first to work with sous vide in a big way. Currently, I deeply admire Jean George (Vongerichten) for a lot of reasons. I think he is an amazing and very innovative chef and his execution is consistent. What I really admire is that he doesn't stop innovating. For instance, he has this place abcV in New York which is a vegan/vegetarian concept in the ABC Building and it is so cutting edge. I had a croissant made with coconut oil and could not tell the difference. It is extraordinary. What I also like about him is he has global restaurants and they are well run and all are great. 

Same with Nobu Matsuhisa. In the early 90’s I used to go to LA a lot and visited Matsuhisa restaurant. It was my goal to be able to sit in front of him at the sushi counter, and when I finally got that opportunity I let him take me on a ride… I never ordered but let him decide.  And then he built his huge empire, but he is still that same wonderful person, an extraordinary talent. He took his cuisine and his time in Peru and has changed the world. Unfortunately, my kids love it, too. So Nobu is now a line item on our family budget.

Photographed by Carl Schultz.

Marci Symington: When you are in the kitchen, what are your favorite foods to prepare? 
Mark Tarbell: Well I have such a great team that I don’t work the line so much. Because of the nature of being the owner, I kept being pulled away so I am out in the front of the house interacting with guests more. I cook at private events and at home. I had been telling myself for years that I wasn’t a baker. Everytime I tell myself I am not something, I examine that. I mean, I know how to bake, I just never did it, so I convinced myself I wasn’t good. So now, at home, I bake. Now I make all the bread for my family, often using family recipes. I make blueberry muffins, banana bread, and pancakes. I actually really like making bread, a very specific kind of bread. I use our chickens eggs, Hayden Mills flour, and really great organic butter. I turbo charge the bread with protein, and sneak in quinoa and other grains so my kids don’t know, but I also try to make it taste good. 

Marci Symington: You mentioned family recipes… I know you learned a lot from your mom and cooking has been an expression of your upbringing. What kind of dishes are you passing to your kids?
Mark Tarbell: I have been documenting are my family recipes, as far back as my great grandmother’s. Though I have changed my great grandmother’s blueberry muffin and banana bread recipes, so I am recording both hers and mine. Having prepared it for so many years I have figured out ways to enhance the moisture, density, and texture. So I am passing on all those things. 

At home, we make pasta as a family, which is one of the hardest 4-ingredient dishes to make well, in the way you dream about. I have passed this technique on to my kids. Oh, and bao. I looked at those things for years, and wondered how it was done, that silky white dough. Well, I decided for my birthday two years ago that I didn’t want anything else except to be at home with my family and make bao. And I did 4 batches and I finally got it on the last try. 

Photographed by Scott Foust.

Marci Symington: Let’s switch gears slightly… What do you love about living and working in the Valley?
Mark Tarbell:

Marci Symington: What about favorite local spots and experiences?
Mark Tarbell: Lightning round…

Eat: At home. I love having dinner with my family

Drink: So many!! I love what Christiaan Rollich does at the Sanctuary is amazing, Jason Asher (Century Grand), Ross Simon (Bitter & Twisted), Blaise Faber (Valentine), Brenon Stuart (Killer Whale Sex Club), and of course Mikey Morales at Tarbell’s. Mikey is a chef by training and that is why he works well for us. He is so chef driven in his cocktails and they are always so balanced. And the people he has trained, Sam, Keith and Katherine have learned so much from him. 

Shop: My ideal shopping experience can be measured in seconds.

Gift: The gift of time.

Exploring: Anywhere with Fife (Symington IV, as in Marci’s husband).

Activity: Hiking. My favorite activity, even before meeting Fife, has been hiking. 

Event: The CCAP event at Tarbell’s and I enjoy going to Cardinals and  Suns games. 

Charities: CCAP (Career in Culinary Arts Program that benefits underserved youth), St. Vincent de Paul, St. Mary’s Food Bank, Feed Your Starving Children, Phoenix Children’s Hospital, Heart Ball, and Circle the City where Sister Adele is doing amazing things

Marci Symington: At the beginning of our chat you mentioned giving back to the industry, can you share how you do that locally?
Mark Tarbell: I will meet with anyone in this town who has a question about restaurants, opening a restaurant, investing in a restaurant, you name it. And if I can help them in any way, then I do. It’s one of the reasons why I do the show on PBS (Check, Please!): to give back to the industry that has been so good to me.

Marci Symington: Lastly, any insider information you can share with The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale readers? What do these foodies need to know?
Mark Tarbell: Everyone needs to know about our new Spirit Room at The Wine Store. We are super excited about it. It is because of Mikey and Jason Taylor that we have the best agave selection in the state. Mikey is probably one of the most knowledgeable agave and spirit guy in town. We have a lot of exclusives there that people don't know about. Also, what people don’t know is that if you are a Tarbell’s wine club member, you get a great discount of 30% off wines and 20% off spirits. And we deliver. 

Tarbell’s is an upscale restaurant & bar serving American fare paired with global wines in a chic space. Complimenting Tarbell’s is The Wine Store, which offers the discerning oenophile a thrilling selection of wine and spirits. Visit both at 3213 E Camelback Rd, Phoenix. Reservations at Tarbell’s are available Monday – Saturday 4pm – 10pm. Phone: (602) 955-8100

Photographer Spotlight: Carl Schultz

Integral to The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale’s mission is telling the stories behind the small businesses Scouted in each Volume. The story begins in print and continues online, after all. As you peruse Volume 2, we are thrilled to continue our story-telling mission with Contributor Spotlights.

Photographer Scott Baxter

For nearly two decades, photographer Carl Shultz of Schultz Digital has dedicated his considerable talents to capturing Arizona, photographing everything from its unique landscapes and architecture to its equally unique inhabitants. And so, when we set out to produce The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale — to scout a photographer who would help us tell the stories of the Valley’s entrepreneurs — Carl Schultz was a natural choice. And we’re thrilled to share we’ll be working with him on Volume 3!

In anticipation of shooting Volume 3, we chatted with Carl about his craft. From what inspired his career to what keeps him motivated, the Arizona native shares what makes photographing in the Valley so special.

The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: So let’s get started… What was your first experience with photography and what inspired you to start your business?
Carl Schultz: Back in the 90’s I worked in the video gaming industry and my job was to take images that were used to create texture maps for 3D models. That’s when I discovered photography. So I bought the best digital camera available at the time and fell in love with the instant gratification of digital photography. I’ve been taking photos ever since and the rest is history.

The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: What an interesting way to get your start in photography! You’ve obviously moved on from the video game industry a while ago. What area of photography would you consider to be your specialty?
Carl Schultz: I’m interested in the intersection of portraiture and architectural photography to create interesting juxtapositions. For example, I’ll photograph clients in-studio with high-quality lighting, then transpose them into a unique setting to tell an engaging story.

The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: It sounds like that would require a lot of creativity and envisioning. Where do you look for inspiration?
Carl Schultz: I spend more time editing the photos than I do actually taking the pictures, so what I’m seeing and noticing during the editing process is where I get most of my inspiration. It gives me the opportunity to visualize different combinations of scenes, subjects, and settings to picture the final result.

Photography courtesy of Carl Schultz.

The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: You spend a lot of time photographing people, but not everyone is going to be comfortable in front of the camera. What would you say makes for a good photoshoot?
Carl Schultz: It’s a combination of things, chief of which is how the subject feels. As a photographer, one of my goals is to provide a calming effect and put people at ease during our sessions. Having good chemistry with the client makes them feel more comfortable. And, of course, a great setting is essential. A lot of times the setting for composites is in my studio where I can control the lighting and make my subjects look their best. But wherever I’m shooting, lighting is essential. Lighting is everything.

The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: You’re clearly very passionate about forming a connection with your subjects. Would you say this is the aspect of your work you find most fulfilling?
Carl Schultz: I love getting to know the subjects I’m working with during the process of creating a photo moment. As a naturally reflective person, I appreciate capturing that memory and returning to it days, months, or even years later.

The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: As a reflective person, what keeps you motivated for what’s next?
Carl Schultz: In addition to photography being an opportunity to connect with new people, I love the challenge it presents. As a digital photographer, I create art with a fast turnaround that brings you back to that exact time, place, and chapter in one's life. With every image I take, I always want to be proud of my work because you never know who is going to see it.

The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: What is your experience like viewing your work?
Carl Schultz: I will look at it for a long time. Step away. And then come to it the next day and make sure I still like it. I have to digest it.

The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: You’re a Phoenix native and you’ve made an incredible career here. What’s special about photographing in the Valley
Carl Schultz: Within an hour of driving through the state, you experience a huge variety of scenery, each evoking a different feeling.

The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: You’ve spent a lot of time here at home in the Valley. What are your favorite local spots?
Carl Schultz: I think Arizona has the most incredible plants so I would pick the Desert Botanical Garden and Cave Creek, where there is abundant access to nature. I also love Cattle Track. I have a studio there and you’re always surrounded by other artists. It has remained virtually untouched so it still has that old Scottsdale feel and look. Aside from places, my favorite things to do when I am not working include playing music on the guitar and drums, and definitely riding one of my motorcycles.

You can view a selection of Carl’s work on the pages of The Scout Guide Phoenix Volume 1 and Volume 2. To view more of Carl's stunning portfolio and learn more about working with him, reach out to him directly here. Don’t forget to tell him Scout sent you!

Member Spotlight: Metalmark Fine Jewelry

Integral to The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale’s mission is telling the stories behind the small businesses Scouted in each Volume. The story begins in print and continues online, after all. As you peruse Volume 2, we are thrilled to continue our story-telling mission with Member Spotlights.

Photographed by Carrie Evans Photography.

After nearly a decade in New York City cutting her teeth in the jewelry business and a stint in Denver designing and working with Metalmark Fine Jewelry, Phoenix native Abby Snow, is back in the desert. And she brought the chic Metalmark with her, opening her own store in the recently redeveloped and local boutique enclave The Fredrick on Missouri.

The move was serendipitous: both an opportunity to return home and to help grow the Metalmark brand with intentionality. Today, Abby dedicates her passion and considerable talents to creating wearable works of art that reflect clients’ unique sensibilities. Or helping them discover designs from emerging and established designers to add to their jewelry boxes. 

Recently, we chatted with Abby Snow about – in her words – the “happiness business,”  building relationships, and — of course — sparkly jewels.

Photographed by Carrie Evans Photography.

The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: Welcome back to the Valley! What called you back home after a decade in New York?
Abby Snow: I always knew that I wanted to move back to Phoenix to be closer to family, and when a friend of mine announced via social media that she and her husband were creating a beautiful, mid-century shopping complex filled with local businesses, I jumped at the opportunity to be a part of it. I think I was one of the first to express interest. It was years in the making but I’m so happy with where we are and I love The Fred and all it has to offer.

The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: We love The Fred, too. It’s truly stunning and such a wonderful addition to Phoenix. But before diving too deep into Metalmark and your space at The Fred, let’s chat about you and your career. How did you get into the jewelry business?
Abby Snow: I moved to New York after college and sort of  fell into the jewelry industry. I landed my first job with high-end watch & jewelry company, Chopard, and fell in love with the industry. From there I made strategic career moves that allowed me to learn all aspects of the jewelry business. And after almost a decade away, I brought my passion for the industry back to Phoenix with me and opened Metalmark. 

The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: On behalf of the Valley’s ladies, thank you. It’s such a joy to have a jewelry boutique like Metalmark around town. For those who haven’t had the privilege to visit Metalmark, how would you describe the brand?
Abby Snow: Metalmark is a fine jewelry boutique featuring a mix of emerging & established designers from all around the world. We also offer custom design services, creating one-of-a-kind pieces for clients. We pride ourselves in our uniquely curated stores and having something to offer for every style & price point.

Photographed by Carrie Evans Photography.

The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: As an entrepreneur, you wear many hats. Which is your favorite?
Abby Snow: Designing custom jewelry for clients!

The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: What does that process look like?
Abby Snow: At Metalmark, we work with clients on everything from re-designs using client-owned stones and metals to new custom pieces. Each project starts with a lengthy discussion of budget, stone preferences, and inspiration, which informs our in-store sketch. Our production studio uses the sketch to create a computer-aided design (CAD) for client approval. Clients can view the CAD in 3D, making it easy to see the piece from a variety of angles and make small adjustments. We then create a wax of the design clients can try on to ensure each detail is as they imagined. Once approved, the magic happens. Finally, our skilled craftsmen meticulously set each stone to create an heirloom-quality piece.

The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: We can’t imagine how rewarding it is to bring a client’s imagination — and investment — to life.
Abby Snow: We always say we’re in the “happiness business” because purchasing jewelry is usually surrounded by a happy or momentous occasion. I love the idea that we’re creating heirlooms for our future generations to love and enjoy.

Photographed by Carrie Evans Photography.

The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: Of course, you also have an array of fabulous designer jewelry in store, too. Who’s your current favorite?
Abby Snow: One of my favorite designers we carry is Azlee - the designer Baylee has such a refined collection and unique point of view, drawing inspiration from her world travels. I love her medallions and the ability to build a collection over time. Another notable designer that’s fairly new to Metalmark is Celine D’Aoust. Her collection is delicate, yet so detailed and wearable! 

The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: We’ve notice you’re wearing both. In addition to a few others… What’s your approach to styling a jewelry collection?
Abby Snow: I’ve always loved fashion and getting dressed and styling my outfit is something I’ve enjoyed since I was little. I think of jewelry as an extension of the outfit, so it usually comes together based on what I’m wearing. But I always have my core pieces that I never take off and those need to go with everything I wear.

The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: How many pieces do you think you wear daily?
Abby Snow: Oh wow, I never thought to count before but between all the piercings in my ears, rings on my fingers, and necklace layers, I probably wear 20 or so pieces a day!

Photographed by Carrie Evans Photography.

The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: It’s only fitting! Aside from the obvious (access to the most gorgeous jewels), what’s the most rewarding aspect of your work?
Abby Snow: It’s an honor to be the go-to for gifts, engagements, anniversaries, and so many other special occasions. I’ve had the pleasure of meeting so many wonderful people since the store has opened, many that have become close friends. I’m so looking forward to nurturing and those amazing relationships as we move into another year of business here in Phoenix. 

The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: Speaking of Phoenix, what do you love about living and working in the Valley?
Abby Snow: I love being back in the Valley because my family is here. After 10+ years away and growing into the person that I have become today, I feel so fortunate to return to Phoenix and open a business that’s near and dear to my heart. Even better is that I have my family and friends here to cheer me on.

The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: Lastly, can you share a few of your favorite spots?
Abby Snow: Of course! For restaurants, Valentine Phx, Belly Kitchen & Bar, Stoop Kid, Provision Coffee, Glai Baan. My spots for shopping are the Market by Modern Nest, Local Nomad, Camelback Collonade, Camelback Flowershop, Vida Moulin. I also love the Uptown Farmers Market and my kid’s really enjoy the Phoenix Children’s Museum.

Metalmark Fine Jewelry is open at The Fred (1215 E Missouri Ave, Suite #7) Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 to 5:30pm. Stop in to shop their fabulously curated collection of jewelry or inquire about creating a custom design.

Member Spotlight: Drybar

Integral to The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale’s mission is telling the stories behind the small businesses Scouted in each Volume. The story begins in print and continues online, after all. As you peruse Volume 2, we are thrilled to continue our story-telling mission with Member Spotlights.

When Drybar began to franchise in 2011, the 20-year beauty industry veteran, Amy Ross, knew Arizona was the perfect market for the now ubiquitous brand. And while Ross had never pictured herself owning a franchise - much less one with six locations - she jumped at the opportunity to be at the ground level of the blowdry bar’s franchising. 

Nearly eleven years later and six-and-counting locations strong, Ross’s bet has paid off. Arizonans, particularly those in Phoenix and Scottsdale, have proved loyal clientele. And Drybar’s signature straightforward, fun-loving concept is a staple of well-tressed Valley women.  

Recently, we chatted with Ross about her franchise-based approach to entrepreneurship, how she’s using Drybar to connect with the Valley community, and – of course – what she’s gifting this holiday season.

The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: Before we get into blow-dries and blow-outs, let’s talk a bit about what led you to Drybar. What were you doing before Drybar?
Amy Ross: Before Drybar, I worked at Estée Lauder companies for sixteen years. I started with them in my 20’s behind the counter at Clinique and worked my way up to an executive-level position.

The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: When did you first discover your passion for beauty?
Amy Ross: From the time I was a little girl, I was interested in all things beauty! I remember being mesmerized when I would sit and watch my grandmother put on her makeup. I don't think that it was any coincidence that I ended up working in the beauty industry.

The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: What drew you to Drybar?
Amy Ross: When Drybar started in 2011 it quickly became the leader in the arena, and I was drawn to its laser focus and fun personality. I’d been on the cosmetic side of the business for almost 20 years and I honestly had never thought about owning a franchise. But, when I came across the opportunity to be on the ground level of Drybar franchising, I knew the concept would be a perfect fit for Arizona.

The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: Now let’s chat blow-dries and blow-outs. For the uninitiated, what is Drybar?
Amy Ross: We’re a blowdry bar. No cuts, no color. Expect blowouts, braids, updos (adorably named ‘Uptini’), as well as a few other add-on hair services to enhance your relaxation and hair health.

The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: In addition to laser focus and a darling personality, what sets Drybar apart?
Amy Ross: Our number one core value at Drybar is, “It’s the Experience.” We offer happiness and confidence one blowout at a time!

The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: Franchise ownership is a less-talked about form of entrepreneurship. What would you tell someone considering a franchise?
Amy Ross: Trust your gut! I had never owned my own business, dealt with commercial real estate, or worked as a franchisee before Drybar. At the end of the day when I listened to my gut and trusted myself, I always found the right answer!

The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: What has been the most challenging aspect of entrepreneurship?
Amy Ross: Navigating a pandemic as a business owner was no joke. The two characteristics that come to mind for our clients are dedication and loyalty. This was something no one saw coming and to have our business continue to thrive on the other side was truly something special.

The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: What is the most rewarding aspect of
Amy Ross: We are so thankful for the success we’ve had over the past eleven years and are so honored to be able to give back to the community through working with local charities. I also did not expect the amazing friends and connections I have made from opening Drybar. Opening this business has enhanced my life in a way I did not imagine.

Photography by Scott Foust Studios.

The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: What’s next for Drybar Arizona?
Amy Ross: We are actively looking for more real estate to continue to grow our business in the Valley and expand to more locations. So stay tuned!

The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: Speaking of the Valley, what do you love about living and working here?
Amy Ross: I love the vacation lifestyle that the Valley has to offer. From all of the great restaurants, great shopping, and amazing weather (if you don’t count the summer), what is there not to love?

The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: What are your go-to local favorites?
Amy Ross: Ocean 44, Sakana Sushi & Grill, and Campo Italian Bistro are my favorite places to eat. And for shopping, by far Amy Atelier in Scottsdale.

The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: When you’re not working - or getting a blowout - where can we find you?
Amy Ross: My true love is my family. I love spending time with my husband of almost 20 years and our amazing son. We are looking forward to some amazing travels this upcoming year and are so excited to see parts of the world that will be new to us.

The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: One last question that’s a seasonal must. What are you gifting this holiday?
Amy Ross: Drybar has so many fabulous gift sets and options. I love the idea of pairing the gift of an appointment or membership with a set, like Ready Set Smooth or Glossy Gang on the Go.

Photography by Scott Foust Studios.

Schedule a blowout or pick up gifts for the glam lady in your life at one of three local Drybar locations listed below. Don’t forget to tell them Scout sent you!

DRYBAR LOCATIONS:

Drybar Phoenix: 3172 E Camelback Rd Phoenix, AZ 85016

Drybar Scottsdale Quarter: 15147 N Scottsdale Rd # 115 Scottsdale, AZ. 85254

Drybar Scottsdale Lincoln Plaza: 6378 N Scottsdale Rd # 120, Scottsdale AZ, 85253

Drybar Tempe: 410 N Scottsdale Rd # 111 Tempe, AZ. 85288

Drybar Gilbert: 2080 E Williams Field Rd #103 Gilbert, AZ. 85295

Drybar Phoenician: 6000 E. Camelback Rd Scottsdale, AZ 85251

TSG GIFT GUIDE 2022: 49 Enchanting Gifts for Little Ones

Originally published by THE SCOUT GUIDE on November 21st, 2022.

Over the years, we’ve found one of the most enjoyable sections of the gift list to tackle is for the younger set. Whether you’re shopping for your own child, grandchildren, nieces and nephews, or a special friend, we’ve rounded up fantastic locally sourced finds from small businesses across the country that are sure to delight.

DINOSAURS: FACTS THAT FIT IN YOUR HAND // Available for purchase online from The Garage Boutique in Scottsdale, Arizona.