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Transforming a house into a dream home requires a curated team of professionals. Whether making repairs or renovations, designing a luxury backyard oasis or customizing heirloom-quality furniture, these vetted regional experts are ready to serve.

The Akeena Group

394 E Main St #201 Ventura, CA 93001
Tel: 805.846.6241 | TheAkeenaGroup.com

Founded in 2013 by Laura Kay Dunbar, a licensed architect and general contractor with more than 30 years of experience.

Services: Design-Build Architecture & Construction, Construction Management, Custom Homes, Residential Remodeling, Additions, Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), Commercial Projects and Project Management

What is your primary trade specialty?

The Akeena Group specializes in custom homes, residential remodels, additions, and ADUs through an integrated design-build approach. By bringing architecture and construction together under one roof, we provide a collaborative process that guides clients from initial concept through completion. We create thoughtful, personalized spaces designed to support the way people live today and into the future, including aging-in-place renovations, accessible design solutions, and custom ADUs through Bungalows by The Akeena Group, our specialized division dedicated to creating thoughtfully designed accessory dwelling units.

What qualifications, licenses or certifications do you hold?

The Akeena Group is uniquely positioned as both a licensed architecture firm and licensed general contractor in California, allowing us to manage both the design and construction of a project under one roof. We are also a certified woman-owned business with EDWOSB and SBA 8(a) certifications.

What makes The Akeena Group different from a traditional architecture firm or general contractor? 

Unlike the traditional approach of hiring separate designers and contractors, The Akeena Group brings architecture and construction together under one roof. Our integrated design-build process encourages collaboration from day one, resulting in clearer communication, more informed budgeting and a smoother experience from initial concept through construction. As a woman-owned and women-led firm, we bring a collaborative, thoughtful approach to every project, with a focus on creating spaces that are thoughtfully designed and expertly built.

What does your communication process look like once a project begins?

Clear communication is at the heart of every project. Clients receive regular updates throughout both the design and construction phases, while our team works closely with consultants, subcontractors and local agencies to keep projects moving forward. We believe transparency, responsiveness and collaboration are just as important as exceptional design.

What trends are you seeing in homeowners today? 

Homeowners are looking for spaces that are more intentional, adaptable and built for long-term living. We’re seeing continued interest in ADUs for multigenerational living and rental income, along with renovations that improve functionality, energy efficiency and indoor-outdoor living. Rather than simply adding square footage, many homeowners are investing in spaces that better support the way they live today while adding lasting value for the future.

What is your typical booking lead time, and how can clients get started?

Lead times vary depending on project scope, complexity and local permitting timelines throughout Ventura and the surrounding counties. The best way to get started is by scheduling an initial consultation via phone or email, where we can discuss your goals, evaluate your project and outline the next steps.

Aldik Home

7651 Sepulveda Blvd. Van Nuys, CA 91405
Tel: 818.988.5970 | AldikHome.com

Established in 1963 as a family-owned business with more than 60 years of experience in luxury home furnishings, outdoor living, artificial botanicals and seasonal décor.

Products & Services: Luxury Outdoor Furniture, Designer Home Furnishings, Artificial Plants & Trees, Custom Floral Arrangements, High-End Holiday Décor, Home Accessories, Outdoor Décor, Commercial Holiday Displays, Delivery, and Professional Decorating Services

What makes Aldik Home different from other home furnishing and décor retailers?
For more than six decades, Aldik Home has been a destination for thoughtfully curated luxury home furnishings, outdoor furniture, lifelike artificial plants and seasonal décor. We focus on exceptional quality, timeless style and personalized customer service, helping homeowners and design professionals create beautiful indoor and outdoor living spaces.

What types of products do you specialize in?
Our showroom features an extensive selection of premium outdoor furniture, patio dining collections, lounge seating, umbrellas, fire tables, designer home accessories, artificial trees and plants, custom floral arrangements and one of Southern California’s most recognized collections of luxury holiday décor and Christmas displays.

How do you help customers choose the right products for their home?
Our experienced design consultants work one-on-one with every customer to understand their style, space and functional needs. Whether furnishing an outdoor patio, selecting statement greenery or decorating for the holidays, we provide personalized recommendations to help bring each client’s vision to life.

Do you offer delivery or decorating services?
Yes. We offer delivery on many of our products and provide professional decorating services for seasonal displays, holiday installations and commercial environments. Our team coordinates every detail to ensure a seamless experience from purchase through installation.

What can customers expect when shopping at Aldik Home?
Customers can expect a welcoming showroom filled with carefully selected luxury furnishings and décor, knowledgeable staff and individualized service. We believe shopping for your home should be inspiring, enjoyable and supported by expert guidance every step of the way.

Whether you’re updating an outdoor living space, refreshing your home’s interior or preparing for the holiday season, we’re here to help you find pieces you’ll enjoy for years to come.

Angelus Block Co.

4575 E Vineyard Ave. Oxnard, CA 93036
Tel: 805.485.1137 | AngelusBlock.com

Serving Ventura County, Thousand Oaks and the entire Southern California region from seven regional plants, Angelus Block has been family owned and operated for 80 years, since its founding in 1946.

Services: Manufacturing and commercial/residential distribution of Architectural Concrete Masonry Units (CMU), Interlocking Concrete Pavers, Permeable Pavers, Decorative Site Walls, Segmental Retaining Wall Blocks and Preblended Mortars/Cements

What is your primary trade specialty? We are Southern California’s largest manufacturer and regional supplier of concrete blocks, paving stones and masonry materials. We specialize in high-volume supply for major commercial builds, municipal hardscapes and residential landscape transformations.

What qualifications, licenses or certifications do you hold? We are a long-standing, multi-generational industry leader. Our products are manufactured to the ASTM standard for each product we make. We are pioneers in sustainable manufacturing, producing low-carbon concrete options like our CarbonKind™ CMU lines complete with official Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs).

How do you calculate your project estimates, and are they guaranteed? We work closely with an expansive contractor and building materials dealer network. Pricing is calculated based on exact product volume, material finishes (such as burnished, slumpstone or split face) and freight logistics. Material quotes are itemized cleanly with clear policies, often featuring flexible return terms without unexpected restock fees.

What does your communication process look like once a project begins? Angelus consistently maintains some of the highest inventory levels in the industry. We offer real-time product availability tracking and rapid, highly coordinated commercial flatbed delivery directly to job sites.

What specific warranties or satisfaction guarantees do you offer? We back our products and certify that they meet or exceed the ASTM standard for each product we manufacture. Architects, engineers and landscape professionals trust our brand because our masonry block systems are engineered specifically for high-performance durability and resilience.

What is your typical booking lead time, and how can clients get started? Standard stocked pavers and precision blocks are available for immediate pickup or delivery. Custom finishes, specialized variegation or glazed masonry colors require a structured special-order queue. Contractors and homeowners can visit our Oxnard showroom, call 805.485.1137, or browse structural specifications at AngelusBlock.com.

Cat in a Hammock

275 E Hillcrest Drive, Suite 160-237, Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
Tel: 805.263.4200 | catinahammock.com

Founded in 2018, Cat in a Hammock has been serving the Conejo Valley, Ventura, Santa Barbara, and Los Angeles counties for almost a decade.

Services: Luxury Outdoor Living Design-Build, Custom Pools & Spas, Outdoor Kitchens, Pergolas & Cabanas, Pavers & Masonry, Landscape Design & Installation

What is your primary trade specialty? We specialize in creating luxury outdoor living spaces that are as beautiful as they are functional. Whether it’s a resort-style pool, an outdoor kitchen for entertaining or a peaceful garden retreat, every project is thoughtfully designed to complement the home’s architecture and reflect each client’s lifestyle.

What sets Cat in a Hammock apart from other pool and landscape contractors? Cat in a Hammock brings every element of outdoor living together under one design-build team. From design through engineering, permitting and construction, we manage every detail to create a seamless client experience. By integrating pools, hardscape, outdoor kitchens, pergolas, lighting and landscaping into one cohesive vision, we create timeless outdoor spaces that feel balanced and intentional.

What qualifications, licenses or certifications do you hold? Cat in a Hammock is fully licensed, bonded and insured (CA License #1046610). We hold General Building (B), Landscaping (C-27) and Swimming Pool (C-53) contractor licenses and are BBB Accredited with A+ rating. Our team is committed to exceptional craftsmanship, professionalism and creating outdoor spaces built to stand the test of time.

How do you calculate your project estimates, and are they guaranteed? Every project begins with a complimentary consultation where we learn about the homeowner’s vision, lifestyle and investment goals. We then guide clients through a collaborative design process using realistic 3D renderings, detailed plans and transparent pricing so they can confidently make informed decisions before construction begins

What does your communication process look like once a project begins? Each client works with a dedicated project manager who serves as their primary point of contact throughout construction. Through our collaborative client portal, homeowners can view project schedules, material selections, approvals, invoices and updates in one convenient place. Whether clients prefer to be highly involved or take a more hands-off approach, we tailor our communication to fit their needs.

What specific warranties or satisfaction guarantees do you offer? We stand behind our workmanship with warranties that meet or exceed California’s contractor requirements on qualifying work. Combined with trusted manufacturer warranties on many of the products we install, our clients can feel confident their investment is protected.

What is your typical booking lead time, and how can clients get started? We recommend reaching out early in the planning process, as our design schedule often books several weeks in advance. The first step is a complimentary design consultation where we’ll discuss your vision, lifestyle, timeline and investment goals before creating a custom design tailored to your home. To schedule your complimentary design consultation, call 805.263.4200 or visit catinahammock.com/contact-us.

Conejo Services

2550 Azurite Circle, Newbury Park, CA 91320
Tel: (805)225-6250 | conejoservices.com

Serving Ventura County, Los Angeles County and Santa Barbara County, Conejo Services has been in business for 47 years and has been family-owned and operated since its founding in 1979 by the Dickey family

Services: Whole-Home Trade Solutions including HVAC (Heating & AC Repair/Installation), Plumbing & Rooter, Electrical & Generators, Attic Insulation, Roof Repair/Replacement, Garage Doors and Pool Maintenance & Equipment Repair

What is your primary trade specialty? While we started out as Conejo Valley Heating and Air, the biggest value we bring to homeowners today is simple: We handle everything in your home from the roof to the roots, so you’re not juggling multiple contractors for every job. One call, one trusted team for your whole home.

  • What qualifications, licenses or certifications do you hold? Whole-Home Trade Solutions including HVAC (Heating & AC Repair/Installation), Plumbing & Rooter, Electrical & Generators, Attic Insulation, Roof Repair/Replacement, Garage Doors and Pool Maintenance & Equipment Repair

What qualifications, licenses or certifications do you hold? Cat in a Hammock is fully licensed, bonded and insured (CA License #1046610). We hold General Building (B), Landscaping (C-27) and Swimming Pool (C-53) contractor licenses and are BBB Accredited with A+ rating. Our team is committed to exceptional craftsmanship, professionalism and creating outdoor spaces built to stand the test of time.

How do you calculate your project estimates, and are they guaranteed? We offer upfront, honest pricing with completely free estimates on system replacements and major upgrades so you know the cost before we start. We also regularly pass utility rebates and manufacturer deals directly to homeowners, such as bundling high-efficiency HVAC units with complimentary energy-saving attic insulation upgrades.

What does your communication process look like once a project begins? Each client works with a dedicated project manager who serves as their primary point of contact throughout construction. Through our collaborative client portal, homeowners can view project schedules, material selections, approvals, invoices and updates in one convenient place. Whether clients prefer to be highly involved or take a more hands-off approach, we tailor our communication to fit their needs.

What specific warranties or satisfaction guarantees do you offer? We stand behind every job with a workmanship guarantee and do the work to code the first time. To keep your home running smoothly year-round, our multi-trade home maintenance plans cover annual water heater flushes, seasonal AC/furnace cleanings, garage door tune-ups, electrical checks and visual roof inspections.

What is your typical booking lead time, and how can clients get started? We can typically accommodate same-day or next-day appointments. We have round-the-clock live call answering and a fleet of over 100 specialized vehicles to provide 24/7/365 emergency response availability. Neighbors can book an appointment by calling 805.225.6250 or visiting ConejoServices.com/book-service.

What keeps you rooted in the Conejo Valley? We’ve worked here since 1979, so this is home. You’ll find us sponsoring local events, kids’ sports and more, because this community has trusted us for decades, and we’re proud to give back to it. Neighbors helping neighbors. That’s the Conejo way.

First Choice Painting

726 Pamela Wood St., Thousand Oaks, CA 91320
Tel: (805)273-1180 | Instagram

Serving Thousand Oaks, Westlake Village, Newbury Park, Calabasas, Malibu and surrounding areas for over three generations as a family-owned, multi-generational painting company.

Services: High-End Residential & Commercial Painting, Comprehensive Interior & Exterior Painting, Custom Cabinet Painting/Staining, Woodwork Finishing and Protective Trim Painting

What is your primary trade specialty? We specialize in full-service interior and exterior painting alongside premium finishing, including custom cabinet staining and woodwork refinishing throughout custom estates. We focus heavily on clean execution, utilizing trusted, durable material brands like Sherwin-Williams, Dunn-Edwards and Benjamin Moore.

What qualifications, licenses or certifications do you hold? We are fully licensed, bonded and insured painting contractors. Our team features a rare three generations of professional local expertise (founded by the Lopez family).

How do you calculate your project estimates, and are they guaranteed? We provide comprehensive, itemized quotes outlining all necessary surface prep, product applications and clean-up costs. All of our painting contracts are transparent, competitive and backed by a full satisfaction guarantee.

What does your communication process look like once a project begins? From start to finish, we communicate every phase of the project clearly and concisely to ensure expectations are met. Unlike many firms, we do not subcontract out any work; our own dedicated, in-house team is on-site daily to manage operations and provide real-time updates.

What specific warranties or satisfaction guarantees do you offer? All of our commercial and residential painting jobs are fully guaranteed. We emphasize meticulous surface preparation—such as extensive washing, scraping and precision priming—to protect our work from early blistering or peeling.

What is your typical booking lead time, and how can clients get started? Homeowners can schedule a consultation or request an estimate by calling our local team at 805.273.1180. We accommodate flexible scheduling and remain available to address urgent or time-sensitive emergency painting needs.

Mark Thomas Home

28448 Roadside Drive, Agoura Hills, CA 91301
Tel: (818)991-4800 | markthomashome.com

Family owned and operated since 1957

Services: Fine Home Furnishings • Interior Design • Space Planning • Custom Upholstery • Window Treatments • Area Rugs • Outdoor Living

What makes Mark Thomas Home different? For nearly seven decades, Mark Thomas Home has been helping Southern California homeowners create beautiful, comfortable spaces that reflect their lifestyles. As a third-generation family-owned business, we believe furnishing a home should be an enjoyable, personal experience—not just another transaction.

Our 35,000-square-foot Agoura Hills showroom is designed to inspire, featuring beautifully curated room settings that allow customers to see, feel and experience furniture the way it will look in their own homes. Whether you’re furnishing a single room or designing an entire residence, our experienced designers help bring your vision to life.

Tell us about your design team. Our award-winning interior designers are passionate about helping every client create a home they truly love. From selecting the perfect sofa or dining table to coordinating fabrics, finishes, rugs, lighting, artwork and window treatments, we guide each project with creativity, expertise and attention to detail.

We believe great design begins by listening. Every home—and every client—is unique, so our designers take the time to understand your lifestyle, taste and budget before making recommendations.

What brands do you carry? We proudly represent many of the finest names in home furnishings, including Bernhardt, Century, Lexington, Tommy Bahama Home, Hooker Furnishings, Bradington-Young, Hancock & Moore, Caracole, Four Hands, Feizy Rugs, Hunter Douglas and many other premium manufacturers from around the world.

These carefully selected collections allow us to offer timeless, high-quality furnishings in a variety of styles—from classic elegance to relaxed California contemporary.

What services do you provide? Beyond furniture, we offer complete interior design services, in-home consultations, space planning, custom upholstery, premium area rugs, Hunter Douglas window treatments, outdoor living collections and white-glove delivery.

Our goal is to make every project as seamless as possible while helping clients create homes that are both beautiful and functional.

Why should readers visit your showroom? Nothing compares to experiencing furniture in person. You’ll discover beautifully designed room settings, exceptional craftsmanship, personalized design advice and one of the largest selections of luxury home furnishings in the Conejo Valley.

Whether you’re updating one room or furnishing your dream home, we invite you to visit Mark Thomas Home and experience why generations of Southern California families have trusted us since 1957.

The Sofa Guy

2520 E Thousand Oaks Blvd, Thousand Oaks, CA 91362
Tel: (805)497-3222 | thesofaguy.com

Serving Thousand Oaks, Westlake Village, Agoura Hills, Malibu, Calabasas and surrounding Conejo Valley communities for 23 years, The Sofa Guy is family owned and operated since its founding in 2003 by Paul and Holly Trent.

Services: Custom Sofa & Sectional Manufacturing, Full-Service Interior Design (Space Planning & Concept Boards), Luxury Furniture Sales, Custom Upholstered Beds and High-End Furniture Reupholstery (Indoor & Outdoor)

What is your primary trade specialty? We deliberately bridge the gap between an interior design firm and a furniture store. Our core signature specialty is crafting fully custom, bench-made sofas, sectionals and upholstered beds manufactured locally right here in California. We allow clients to dictate the exact dimensions, configurations and cushion comforts for their space.

What qualifications, licenses or certifications do you hold? We are a highly decorated, family-owned boutique firm with over two decades of local design authority. Our design studio features a dedicated, collaborative “A-Team” of furniture specialists and professional interior designers.

How do you calculate your project estimates, and are they guaranteed? We offer completely transparent product and design packaging. For custom builds, we outline all frames, configurations and material tiers upfront. If clients utilize our TSG Interior Design team for broader home transformations, we curate custom floor plans and itemized product budgets before any orders are placed.

What does your communication process look like once a project begins? We thrive on personal collaboration, avoiding high-pressure sales environments. We make professional house calls to physically measure rooms and verify layouts. From there, we provide our clients with detailed digital vision boards and multi-option floor plans to help visualize the layout before custom fabrics are cut.

What specific warranties or satisfaction guarantees do you offer? Our core philosophy is to build heirloom-quality furniture that lasts. Because we control the manufacturing, we use top-tier materials like high-resiliency foam and premium textile collections (including Schumacher, Kravet and high-performance, kid-friendly fabrics) to protect pieces from premature sagging, wear or staining.

What is your typical booking lead time, and how can clients get started? While major full-home interior design projects scale sequentially, our custom California-crafted sofas can boast lead times as fast as three weeks. Clients can test furniture cushions or browse thousands of fabric swatches by visiting our 3,400-square-foot Thousand Oaks Showroom or calling 805.497.3222.

State Restoration

Westlake Village Showroom
3350 Willow Lane, Westlake Village, CA 913
Tel: (805)379-1276 | staterestoration.com

Serving Westlake Village, Thousand Oaks, Agoura Hills, Simi Valley, Camarillo, Malibu and surrounding Ventura/LA County communities for 28 years (family-owned and operated since establishing locally in January 1998 under President Darlene Kimbell)

Services: Complete Insurance Disaster Reconstruction (Fire, Water, Flood, Storm and Earthquake Damage), High-End Custom Home Building, Full Home Remodeling and Luxury Kitchen & Bathroom Renovations

What is your primary trade specialty? For over two decades, State Restoration Inc. has built a reputation for delivering exceptional residential remodeling and restoration projects throughout Southern California. Known for combining superior craftsmanship with innovative design, the company specializes in transforming homes into personalized spaces that reflect the lifestyle and vision of each homeowner. Every project is approached with a commitment to quality, attention to detail and a dedication to creating timeless environments that enhance both beauty and functionality.

What qualifications, licenses or certifications do you hold? We are a fully licensed, bonded and insured California general contracting corporation. We hold a long-standing A+ Rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and are proud members of the Community Associations Institute.

How do you calculate your project estimates, and are they guaranteed? For custom luxury remodeling, we build transparent, itemized quotes mapping design choices to budget parameters. For disaster recovery, our lead estimating team brings over 30 years of localized industry expertise to generate meticulous, accurate evaluations accepted directly by major insurance carriers.

What does your communication process look like once a project begins? We serve as a seamless, one-stop shop. Clients work directly with an internal team consisting of architectural drafters, engineers, hands-on project managers and design coordinators. We manage all local building permits, HOA compliance protocols and structural milestones, providing continuous client walkthroughs and phase approvals.

What specific warranties or satisfaction guarantees do you offer? We stand firmly behind our heavy construction and premium finishes.

How can clients get started? Homeowners are invited into our 10,000-square-foot Westlake Village showroom to explore an extensive selection of cabinetry, tile, countertops, fixtures and design inspirations all under one roof. This unique approach allows clients to seamlessly bring their vision to life while benefiting from expert guidance throughout every phase of the remodeling process.

Top Armor Roofing

2524 Townsgate Road, Suite F, Westlake Village, CA 91361
Tel: (805)492-9036 | toparmorroofing.com

Serving Thousand Oaks, the Conejo Valley and surrounding areas, backed by CEO John Condon’s 35+ years of hands-on roofing industry experience

Services: Residential Re-Roofing and Leak Repair, Commercial and HOA Multi-Unit Roofing Projects, Storm and Wind Damage Restoration, Roof Maintenance and Fire-Smart Protection Solutions

What is your primary trade specialty? We specialize in full-scale residential, commercial and HOA multi-unit re-roofing projects. Our specialized teams handle a diverse array of advanced roofing systems, including composite shingle, concrete/clay tile, standing seam metal, single-ply membrane (TPO) and granulated torch-applied roofing.

What qualifications, licenses or certifications do you hold? We are fully licensed, bonded and insured California roofing contractors (C-39 Classification). Additionally, our crews are manufacturer-trained and certified by the industry’s most trusted global material producers to guarantee compliant installations.

How do you calculate your project estimates, and are they guaranteed? We offer comprehensive free project proposals and estimates. Our bids are fully detailed and itemized upfront to clearly outline the exact scope of work, materials and labor required, ensuring fair and highly competitive pricing without any hidden backend fees. We use detailed aerial imagery mapping to calculate square footage and linear footage to get a complete roof assessment.

What does your communication process look like once a project begins? We pride ourselves on transparent, real-time client updates. Homeowners have direct communication lines with our project leads and receive progress milestones so they are kept informed every step of the way. Our four company managers, including John, ensure homeowners are supported and can access project managers, even after hours.

What specific warranties or satisfaction guarantees do you offer? Peace of mind is integrated into every project. We provide a comprehensive warranty package that blends multi-year company workmanship guarantees with full manufacturer material warranties. These manufacturer warranties can cover up to 50 years, depending on the application and product. We emphasize meticulous structural preparation to shield your roof against future wind, rain and extreme heat.

What is your typical booking lead time, and how can clients get started? An initial assessment/estimate/job site walk is scheduled within two to five days, and the proposal is sent within a few days of the site visit. Jobs typically begin within two to three weeks of initial contract signing. Call 805.492.9036 to schedule immediate leak fixes or request a formal assessment online at TopArmorRoofing.com.

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Article & photgraphy provided

Hundreds of community members, business leaders and elected officials gathered at Housing Trust Fund Ventura County’s 7th Annual Compassion Campaign, raising more than $200,000 for affordable housing and breaking the organization’s fundraising records. Held May 7 at Tierra Rejada’s Walnut Grove, “The Sweetest Investment”-themed event reflected on the lasting returns that local commitment to affordable housing generates for the entire region.

During the evening’s most powerful moment, Ventura Springs residents Rosay and Jimmy Mooney shared about their housing journey. The couple formerly owned a home in Maryland before moving to California and facing housing insecurities, which led to them living in their car with a newborn.

Thanks to Project HOPE, a collaborative outreach initiative pairing law enforcement and social services to assist individuals and families experiencing homelessness, the Mooneys were able to secure housing at Ventura Springs, an affordable housing development funded in part by Housing Trust Fund VC.

“Since moving in, I feel safe,” Rosay Mooney told the audience. “Sustainability has been my word this year, because being sustainable was lost for a period of time. My child now has his own bed and room, a consistent schedule and a consistent routine.”

Senior Deputy Jason Havelka of the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office who assisted the Mooneys through Project HOPE weighed in on the area’s housing issues.

“One of the biggest challenges our clients face is locating and securing available, affordable housing,” Havelka said. “Developments like the one this organization helped fund are key in creating real options for families like the Mooney family.”

Their story grounded a broader conversation about the widening gap between wages and housing costs in Ventura County. Housing Trust Fund VC CEO Linda Braunschweiger led guests through an interactive Price Is Right-style segment comparing the cost of common goods and services in 2016 versus today. According to HUD Fair Market Rent data, the average rent for a two-bedroom home in California has climbed more than 40-50% over the past decade, surpassing $3,000 per month in many markets. Annual childcare costs have nearly doubled, rising from $10,000 to $15,000 in 2016 to $20,000 to $29,000 today, according to the California Child Care Resource and Referral Network. And according to the UC Berkeley Terner Center, the cost to build a single affordable housing unit in California, which stood at roughly $265,000 to $425,000 in 2016, has since climbed to $450,000 to $700,000 or more.

“Ventura County’s future depends on whether working families can afford to live where they work,” said Braunschweiger. “When teachers, nurses, first responders, agricultural workers and service employees cannot find housing they can afford, the consequences ripple across our entire economy.”

In keeping with the evening’s theme, the event featured a dessert auction in which each item was tied to the story of a current resident living in a community funded in part by Housing Trust Fund VC. Pecan pie, chosen in honor of Rosay’s late grandmother Rosa who made it for family and community gatherings, opened the bidding. Proceeds contributed to the evening’s record-breaking total.

Guests also participated in the second annual “Paint It Forward” lending library competition. Five lending libraries were built by students in the Architecture and Product Innovation and Design Pathways program at Adolfo Camarillo High School, under the guidance of teacher and former Teacher of the Year Peter Wachtel, with support from the Rotary Clubs of Moorpark and Santa Paula. McCarthy Companies, the inaugural Paint It Forward winner in 2025, took home the award for the second consecutive year. Each library will be placed at a development supported by Housing Trust Fund VC.

The 2026 Compassion Campaign was chaired by Ken Trigueiro, Board Chair of Housing Trust Fund VC. Keystone Title Sponsors included Housing Opportunities for People Everywhere (USA HOPE), Banc of California and Larrabure Framing. Pillar Sponsors included the City of Ventura Housing Services, City National Bank, U.S. Bank, PennyMac and Montecito Bank and Trust.

Housing Trust Fund Ventura County Launched as a 501c3 nonprofit corporation in 2011, Housing Trust Fund VC is the local trusted leader in helping to increase affordable housing options throughout Ventura County by leveraging public-private partnerships to provide low-cost, flexible loans early in the housing development cycle. As of January 2026, Housing Trust Fund VC has committed to investing $52 million through its Revolving Loan Fund, creating 2,193 affordable apartments and homes for very-low, low- and middle-income employees, transitional age foster youth, veterans, farm workers and the homeless.

Learn more at HousingTrustFundVC.org.

Smiles 4 Life

1140 E Thousand Oaks Boulevard, Suite A, Thousand Oaks 91362 Tel: (805) 301-7777

Office Hours
Wednesday 8:30 AM–6 PM
Thursday 8:30 AM–6 PM
Friday 8:30 AM–6 PM
Saturday 9 AM–5 PM
Sunday 10 AM–3 PM
Monday 8:30 AM–6 PM
Tuesday 8:30 AM–6 PM

By Alicia Doyle, Photography Provided

Some people build businesses. Others build communities. For nearly two decades, Pantea Choroomi has quietly done both.

Today, as co-founder of Smiles 4 Life – All Ages Dental & Braces and Agoura Dental Group, Pantea is known as a business leader, entrepreneur and healthcare advocate. But behind the success of her practices is a deeply personal story shaped by resilience, faith and an enduring sense of gratitude.

Her journey began far from Conejo Valley. Born into a family whose life was upended by the Iranian Revolution, Pantea’s early years were defined by displacement and rebuilding. When her father refused to compromise his principles under the new regime, the family was forced to leave everything behind and start over in Germany.

“It was not an easy journey,” she recalls. “My parents lost everything materially, but they never lost their values, their work ethic or their determination.”

Germany became a formative chapter in her life. As immigrants, her family was met with kindness and opportunity—an experience that left a lasting impression.

“I remember how hardworking, disciplined, detailed and skilled the German people were,” she says. “Germany gave my family stability, education and an opportunity to rebuild.”

Pantea thrived academically, pursuing architectural design, German literature and eventually law school. But during her second year, a family illness prompted a life-changing move to the United States. Leaving behind a clear path, she followed her parents across the Atlantic into the unknown.

What she found was possibility.

“I learned very quickly that the American Dream is real,” she says. “It took hard work, but America rewarded that hard work.”

Watching her father rebuild once again—this time in the U.S.—deepened her appreciation for the freedoms and opportunities many take for granted.

“There is not a single day that passes that I don’t feel grateful to live in this country,” she says. “My family was given freedom, safety, opportunity and a future here.”

That journey would also lead her to Conejo Valley—and to her future husband, Dr. Aaron Choroomi. On an early visit to Thousand Oaks, she felt an immediate connection.

“The mountains reminded me of the beautiful town where I grew up in Germany,” she says. “I told him, ‘If we get married, I want to live here for the rest of my life.”

Twenty years later, that vision has come full circle. The Choroomi family built both a life and a legacy rooted in service, raising their two children while growing a thriving dental practice.

As her husband was starting Agoura Dental Group, the realities of running a healthcare practice quickly became apparent. While Dr. Choroomi excelled clinically, the growing demands of administration, operations, staffing and business management threatened to pull him away from what he loved most—caring for patients.

Pantea stepped in to help. What began as support for her husband soon evolved into a calling of her own.

“I realized that every system, every process, every employee, every improvement ultimately affected a patient,” she says. “That made the work meaningful.”

Under her leadership, the practice flourished, building long-standing relationships with local families—many of whom have returned for generations.

A new chapter began during the pandemic, when the family enrolled their children at Hillcrest Christian School. What started as helping with homework evolved into a deeper spiritual journey. Eventually, Pantea and her husband began attending church and made the decision to embrace Christianity.

“Our children helped lead us there,” she says.

Around the same time, a long-held vision began to take shape. For years, Pantea had driven past an abandoned building in Thousand Oaks, imagining what it could become.

“Most people saw an empty building. I saw possibility,” she says.

That vision became Smiles 4 Life—a modern, all-ages dental and orthodontic center designed with intention and compassion. Every detail, from the layout to the technology to the team, reflects a commitment to making high-quality care accessible and welcoming.

For Pantea, success has never been about scale—it has been about purpose.

“It’s about creating the right place,” she says. “A place where patients feel seen, where doctors can focus on care and where families feel welcomed.”

With the new concept of Smiles 4 Life, Pantea set out to solve a challenge she had seen too often in dentistry: the lack of communication between doctors across separate practices, which can delay treatment, create confusion and ultimately affect the patient’s overall care.

By bringing trusted specialists together under one roof, Smiles 4 Life offers patients a smoother, more connected experience. This model provides a double benefit: It helps advance treatment more efficiently while saving patients from the stress of traveling back and forth, scheduling multiple appointments at different offices and trying to coordinate care between separate doctors on their own.

At the heart of it all is a single guiding principle: gratitude.

“Gratitude for my parents’ sacrifices, for Germany, for America, for my family and for this community,” she says.

That gratitude is woven into every corner of Smiles 4 Life. It is the reason the practice exists. And it is the legacy Pantea Choroomi hopes to leave behind for her two children—one smile for life at a time.

© Copyright 2026 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved

Editor’s Letter

Tracy Marcynzsyn, Editor

Some call it Mayberry, while others call it heaven on Earth. However you describe this beautiful region, one thing is for sure—living in the Conejo Valley comes with a signature style cherished by all who call it home.

In this month’s style-themed issue of Conejo Valley Lifestyle, we showcase some of the many things we love about living here that make our community so unique and wonderful. Kicking off the editorial lineup is our feature article about home services providers. Every one of the 10 businesses included in the feature represents the best in their field, and we wholeheartedly recommend consulting with any of them when it comes to handling any home-related needs, from remodeling to decorating and everything in between.

As feathering our nests reflects the values we hold dear, so does caring for each other, something this community makes a top priority. This month, as we do in every issue, we share about local nonprofits that exist to help in some way. MANDO is a prime example. Created to mentor youth at risk, MANDO’s dedicated staff take pride in guiding young adults to live their best lives.

You’ll also read about the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life, taking place this month and serving as a comfort and support to those affected by cancer; and the Soroptimists’ Margarita Mix Off, a fundraiser to benefit the organization’s many programs to boost opportunities for females in need. We also highlight Housing Trust Fund Ventura County’s recent event, where the community rallied together to break fundraising records and promote affordable housing for all.

Embracing the spirit of service as is the style in this community is Smiles 4 Life’s Pantea Choroomi, who shares her story of achieving the American dream and settling in the Conejo Valley to raise her family and run a dental practice to serve others—now that’s something to smile about, we think you’ll agree. Here’s to community style!

Bella Bakes

Tel: (310) 590-9353 | bellasbakes.org

“I believe small acts of kindness can make someone’s day a little brighter. Together, we can create lasting ripples of joy.” — Bella

Article by Tracy Marcynzsyn,  Photography Provided

Mixing creativity, compassion and initiative, local teen Isabella Gertz concocted a recipe to serve up joy to families in need.

After visiting a local food bank, the 16-year-old Agoura High School junior had a lightbulb moment that sparked her into action.

“I realized that while families often receive basic necessities, birthdays and celebrations are frequently overlooked,” shares Isabella. Inspired to make a difference, she reached out to local grocery stores and bakeries to request undecorated cakes that she could customize and donate to help others celebrate birthdays and special events.

With support from Gelson’s, Sprouts and Vons, Isabella teamed up with a group of friends to create unique and beautifully decorated cakes to bring smiles to others.

“We decorated a cake with an axolotl for a 5-year-old’s birthday and got a video of them receiving the cake. Their reaction was incredibly sweet and reminded me exactly why I do this,” says Isabella, who founded a nonprofit called Bella’s Bakes to continue her mission.

“My goal is to expand to reach more communities in Southern California,” says Isabella. Advertising her services through flyers, word of mouth and on Instagram, Isabella works with Manna Conejo Valley Food Bank to deliver the decorated cakes to the lucky recipients.

As her older brother prepares to attend Cornell University in the fall, Isabella contemplates her own college plans, noting she’s thinking of staying closer to home and continuing to brighten up lives with Bella’s Bakes. For the Conejo Valley community, that’s something to celebrate!

Learn more at BellasBakes.org and on Instagram at @_bellas.bakes_.

Isabella’s love of culinary creations began at a young age in the kitchen with her mother.

“I started baking at 5 years old. My mentor that created my passion is my mom, who taught me how to bake when I was little,” explains Isabella, adding that the whole family got involved. “My dad and brother were forced to try my creations, too.”

Isabella studied at the Culinary Institute of America in New York and credits her Girl Scout instructors’ guidance and support with helping her grow and develop her skills. She is pursuing the prestigious Girl Scout Gold Award with Bella’s Bakes and her Bake It Forward and Design with Dignity programs, where others can contribute to the cause by donating funds online at BellasBakes.org.

The ambitious, accomplished teen balances her baking endeavors with schoolwork, the tennis team and extracurriculars, including the Animal Welfare Club and the Women in Medicine Club, as well as volunteering at Los Robles Hospital.

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved