2023 Lake Arrowhead Concert Series

May 26 - September 3, 2023

Get ready to embark on a musical journey like no other, as the highly anticipated 2023 Lake Arrowhead Concert Series is almost here! Promising an exhilarating musical extravaganza, this year's lineup boasts an array of iconic tribute acts. From throwback hits to timeless classics, the stage is set to ignite with energy and to captivate audiences visiting Lake Arrowhead. Whether you're a music enthusiast or simply seeking a memorable experience, this concert series is a must-attend event.

The Musical Lineup:

This year’s lineup features an impressive array of artists spanning various genres, to satisfy a range of musical tastes. Look forward to an exciting blend of both established acts and rising stars, creating an atmosphere of anticipation and discovery. Tribute bands cover music from artists such as Bruno Mars, Queen, Aerosmith, Foo Fighters, Van Halen, Tom Petty, AC/DC, The Bee Gees, Journey, The Doors, Fleetwood Mac, Elton John, BIlly Idol and many more. (Scroll down for video highlights.)

The Venue:

The setting for the concert series alone is reason enough to attend. In the heart of Lake Arrowhead Village, the venue offers a unique blend of natural splendor, plentiful food choices and musical enchantment. As the sun sets over the shimmering lake, the atmosphere becomes electric, immersing attendees in a truly magical experience.

Concert Experience:

The organizers have spared no effort in ensuring that each concert is a memorable experience for all attendees. From state-of-the-art sound systems to meticulously crafted lighting setups, the technical aspects of the event are carefully designed to elevate the performances to new heights. Attendees will enjoy a variety of food and beverage options as they sit center stage to the magic on the lake. (Just make sure you secure your table reservation in advance.)

Who is this for?

Music enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those seeking a memorable getaway will find the 2023 Lake Arrowhead Concert Series a uniquely captivating experience. Whether you're a die-hard fan of a particular artist or simply appreciate good music in a stunning setting, this event promises something for everyone. Families, friends, and couples looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life will relish the opportunity to immerse themselves in a weekend filled with music and natural beauty.

The Lake Arrowhead Concert Series gives friends and families an experience to enjoy together, while music aficionados can revel in the performances of amazing bands. Additionally, the serene surroundings and community-oriented atmosphere make it an ideal destination for those seeking a break from the city, providing a refreshing retreat to rejuvenate the soul.

Featured Acts

The Spazmatics:

Kicking off the concert series with a nostalgic bang, The Spazmatics deliver an electrifying performance that transcends time. With their signature blend of 80s synth-pop, this band takes audiences on a vibrant journey down memory lane. Fans of the 80s era and enthusiasts of infectious dance beats will find themselves irresistibly drawn to The Spazmatics' stage presence and charm.

Bruno & the Hooligans:

Bruno & the Hooligans deliver an explosive performance inspired by the unparalleled talent of Bruno Mars. Prepare to dance the night away to the infectious grooves, soulful melodies, and undeniable charisma of this tribute act. Bruno Mars fans and lovers of high-energy performances will be left with unforgettable memories.

Elton the Early Years:

Channeling the spirit of one of music's greatest legends, Elton the Early Years pays homage to the iconic Elton John. Brace yourself for a captivating tribute that encapsulates the essence of Elton's early career, featuring soul-stirring ballads and unforgettable anthems. Fans of Elton John and those seeking a heartfelt musical experience will be left in awe of this enchanting performance.

Kings of Queen:

Prepare to be transported into the unforgettable realm of rock royalty as the Kings of Queen take the stage. This tribute act captures the spirit and energy of the legendary band Queen, bringing their timeless hits to life. From the pulsating rhythms of "Bohemian Rhapsody" to the anthemic power of "We Will Rock You," fans of Queen and lovers of epic rock performances will revel in the electrifying atmosphere.

Bee Gees Gold:

Get ready to immerse yourself in the iconic sounds of the Bee Gees as Bee Gees Gold pays homage to the legendary disco trio. From their unmistakable falsetto harmonies to their infectious disco beats, this tribute act brings the timeless classics to the forefront once again. Fans of the Bee Gees and enthusiasts of disco-infused nights of dancing and celebration will find themselves transported to a bygone era.

The 2023 Lake Arrowhead Concert Series presents an incredible opportunity to escape to the breathtaking beauty of the region with an unforgettable lineup of tribute performances - this is nature and music in perfect harmony. From high-energy performances to soul-stirring melodies and captivating vocals, the event offers a captivating blend of musical genres and eras. Whether you're a fan of the 80s, a lover of timeless classics, or simply seeking a magical evening under the stars, this concert series will deliver an experience that lingers in your heart long after the music fades. Embark on a musical odyssey like no other and immerse yourself in the unforgettable ambiance of the Lake Arrowhead Concert Series 2023.

Act quickly and secure your tickets - these concert events frequently sell out. Then, check availability to stay in our luxury lakeview home.

Storytelling with photography

  Like many of you, I’ve spent copious amounts of time watching YouTube tutorials. For me, lighting was the subject I became obsessed with. I would look at the work of many other photographers and the first thing I would think was – wow the photo must look so good because of how it was lit. This led me down a path of slowly accumulating a bunch of strobes and modifiers – which isn’t necessarily a bad thing in the long term when building a business in photography, but I became “lighting obsessed” so to speak. 

            I started with an off-camera flash and a trigger. I was so proud when I first managed to make my grey seamless (my second purchase) white for the first time from shooting a flash onto it. I quickly realized that the flash was limiting my potential after watching more YouTube videos on lighting, so I upgraded to the Profoto lighting system. Instantly I noticed a difference, mostly in ease of use, color consistency, and the best part (the strobe never misfired!) – But I definitely felt that buying into the Profoto system gave me an edge in lighting. I was using my Profoto b10 just about every day. Rembrandt lighting, check, Butterfly lighting (with a reflector, another purchase I made) check, Loop lighting – you get the idea. I realized I was improving, but I knew I was far from achieving the look some of my favorite photographers would produce, so I read more articles, watched more Youtube videos.

   After attending a lighting workshop, I came to the conclusion that one light just wasn’t enough (real shocker there). Naturally, I bought a second light. Perhaps by now you are starting to see a trend, and keep in mind, throughout this purchasing process I was also purchasing lighting modifiers which can be quite expensive themselves. I’ll spare you the rest of the very predictable details and finish by saying I ended up with 4 lights, a plethora of modifiers, and was still unhappy with the look I was producing.

            It wasn’t that the photos didn’t look technically well lit, the problem, which I think many others overlook as well, was the content. My photos were not saying anything other than – I spent money I could have been saving, on camera gear. The skill that my idols had that I needed wasn’t necessarily lighting, it was the ability to tell a story. I was shook by this discovery, and just how long it took for me to acknowledge it- I am a writer after all. 

            Soon after I realized the narrative was what was missing, I began to pick up on nuances in each Youtube video. A lot of professional photographers tend to dumb down the clarity and sharpness of their images in post-production, some of them add noise, and almost all of them dodge and burn. In essence, it wasn’t until I discovered how important being able to tell a story is that I discovered that you don’t need a state-of-the-art camera, or 8 strobes to accomplish that. Now don’t get me wrong, I still love my Profoto strobes and use them on just about every shoot, but now I ask - how will this help advance my story - whether that is creating a mood or conveying a certain emotion, adding depth to the image, or facilitating a grand narrative. So next time you get out there, ask yourself - what message do I want to convey?         

How the Beach Affects our Senses

    It is no secret that the beach is a happy place for many, but is there a psychological explanation - or is the “happy place” simply a result of pop culture and cultural conditioning?

Simply put, Studies show that individuals living on the coast tend to have better physical and psychological health than those who live inland. Let's explore how the ocean affects the senses.

   According to psychologists, the sound of waves activates the parasympathetic nervous system which is responsible for the body’s fight or flight response. Also known as the “rest and digest” state, this system controls the body's ability to relax. Moreover, ocean sounds engage the prefrontal cortex which is associated with emotion and self-reflection. It can also work to decrease cortisol levels which induce stress. That explains why laying down with your eyes closed on the beach can be so relaxing! Try putting headphones on and see if you get the same effect.

    When we look at the ocean, generally we see the color blue. The color blue has been proven to evoke feelings of tranquility in most people. Additionally, it is known to facilitate creativity in the brain. Moreover, the ocean’s flat surface gives us the ability to see miles in the distance. In other words, it gives us a vantage point where our brains can assess that there is no potential threat. According to studies, looking out into the ocean changes the frequency of our brain waves, resulting in a mild meditative state.

    Ocean mist does an interesting thing – it is a combination of oxygen with an extra electron attached via water molecules. This combination produces negative ions which have been shown by researchers to produce an anti-depressant effect. This can also help alleviate Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

    Our feet absorb free ions similarly to our lungs. The earth’s charge is negative, and as we connect our feet to its surface, we are triggering a tingling warm sensation by way of the many nerves and acupuncture points within them. This creates a stimulating benefit for the body as well as the mind.

    Next time you get a chance, take a trip to the beach and pay attention to your senses. You’ll realize that going to the beach to relax is an activity normalized by our culture for a reason. The benefits aren’t simply psychological – it’s Physiology, Biology, and Chemistry all intertwined!

San Simeon’s Must-see Locations

   San Simeon is more than just a halfway point between Los Angeles and San Francisco.

San Simeon is home to the famous Hearst Castle, nestled in the hills. You’ll also have an opportunity to see an abundance of Elephant Seals from the Piedras Blancas Rookery. Let’s not forget San Simeon is located at the epicenter of Wine Country. Big Sur is in proximity and the view is unforgettable.

            Hearst Castle is an architectural masterpiece visible all the way from Highway 1. Influential figures such as Winston Churchill, Charlie Chaplin, and Charles Lindbergh were invited to the property by William Hearst. The Victorian castle is beautiful, but not what defines the estate. On-site you’ll find guided tours, a restaurant, a gift shop, and a stunning vista view of the coast. – but off-site, you’ll have the opportunity to camp in the 24-mile-long state park.

            The Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery is a must-see. This is a resting spot for Elephant Seals, and there are a lot! The seals can reach up to 16 feet long and weigh more than 5,000 lbs. Further, these seals give birth in the winter, and there is no better time to see the sweet creatures while also enjoying the rich, sprouting wildflowers. Close by, you can access the Piedras Blancas Lighthouse via guided tours.

            Cambria is just 10 miles south of San Simeon. and the famous Paso Robles is just 40 miles east (as well as the Hearst Winery!). Inland from Big Sur, you’ll find the stunning Santa Lucia Highlands wineries – and speaking of Big Sur, It’s just 65 miles north of San Simeon!

            Seaside cliffs, misty coastlines, hiking trails, restaurants beautiful beaches, and a rich history is what you’ll find along the stretch of Big Sur. Big Sur has been the inspiration for artists of all types. Whether you read the writing of Jack Kerouac, soaking in the stunning images from Ansel Adams, or experiencing the Beach Boys – you’re sure to experience elements of Big Sur’s beauty.

            In other words, San Simeon is the perfect get-away with an abundance of activities all within range!

How to Minimize Stress While Planning Your Event

Surely we all know that event planning can be a bit of a headache, but those of us familiar with it also understand just how rewarding it is to see the results - especially if it goes off without a hitch.

One of the biggest issues individuals struggle with when event planning is delegating responsibility - particularly to the right colleagues and vendors. It can be exhausting and quite an undertaking trying to coordinate between a venue, caterer, florist, designer, and a dj along with your guests, family and friends. That being said, the fewer people you have to communicate with, the easier it will be to keep track.

One way event planners handle this is by finding event spaces that also cater. Knowing that food and location are taken care of takes a huge load off of an event planners shoulders and is one way to minimize the amount of people they have to coordinate with. Generally venue owners have a list of preferred vendors. This can also help to reduce the amount of research and scouting required to find other vendors.

Why Themed Photoshoots Can Separate you From the Rest

You’re scrolling through Instagram. You pass a plethora of lifestyle photos from influencers - through an abundance of photos of pretty people shot with blurred-out backgrounds. These people could be in the middle of the street, they could be on vacation in Dubai, or in a studio in downtown LA, but you wouldn’t know the difference, because the background is too blurry, blown out and indistinguishable. All of these photos have thousands of likes, and the algorithm is pushing them in your direction.

Everyone can probably relate to this - but does anybody acknowledge the common thread? We’re looking at the same photo over and over - the same person over and over, as a matter of fact. So how do you separate yourself?

There are two key points here.

First: You need to be able to tell a story with your photos. This can happen through the choice of clothing and accessories, facial expression, environment, and set design.

Second: You need to have a theme. Whether that theme is color, shapes and lines, an era, a type of lighting - theme is crucial. Can themes intersect? absolutely - but they should be cohesive and symbiotic.

One of the most strategic and convenient avenues to utilize both story and theme is through location rentals. Websites like Peerspace or Giggster host themed sets and homes owned by users.

Why company retreats are important

Brings employees closer together

There is no question that a comfortable work environment is conducive to better work efficiency. One of the most effective ways to build comfort is to build relationships. Meeting deadlines, coordinating groups of people, calendar control - sometimes these tasks can be daunting and monotonous, particularly if you’re working under less than ideal circumstances. The leading factor resulting in businesses maintaining long term employees is whether or not the employees themselves get along with each other. The second factor is whether or not they feel connected or at the very least, seen and heard by their employer.

A company retreat is one of the best ways to build both of these relationships. Being in close proximity to and communicating with co-workers and their employer humanizes them - in other words, it helps facilitate inter-personal empathy. Having shared experiences with co-workers you may not be on the best terms with can help break the tension or settle internal conflicts. Furthermore, if employees have the opportunity to express themselves regarding their work environment in an space where they feel heard, they are more likely to put their best effort forward in the work place.

Identifies your teams strengths and weaknesses

Company retreats give employers the opportunity to gain a better understanding of their employees strengths and weaknesses. Yes, results are one way to determine employee strengths and weaknesses, but understanding their psychology can help improve the weaknesses and maintain their strengths. It is not an employers job to try and solve the worlds problems, however - having some psychological context may alter the way you approach employee roles or undertakings in a positive way.

5 Hidden Gems in Lake Arrowhead, CA

You’ll find Lake Arrowhead tucked away in the San Bernardino Mountains - just a turn off of the beautiful Rim of the world highway that leads to Big Bear. Lake Arrowhead is the perfect year round vacation destination. Snowboarding, skiing , hot springs and tubing during the winter - Water skiing, hiking, boating, and fishing during the summer. There’s plenty of activities for the kids, and an abundance of fantastic places to grab a bite. Here are Five hidden Gems you’ll find in Lake Arrowhead, CA.

1. A cruise on the Lake Arrowhead Queen

This one hour cruise takes you around the perimeter of Lake Arrowhead. Aside from the refreshing ride you’ll find beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and stunning lake homes.

2. The Deep Creek Hot Springs

Aside from enjoying one of the most popular hot springs in the US, you’ll be subject to the exceptional views the San Bernardino National Forest has to offer. This location is particularly enjoyable in the Winter and Spring months.

3. The Lakefront Taproom Bar and Kitchen

Just as the name says, This Lakefront bar and grill offers stunning views - but that’s not all. Fantastic craft beer, great hotdogs, and live music! This is the happening spot during nights and weekends, and their food and beverages are sure to please.

4. Skypark at Santa’s Village

You’ll find activities for the kids year round at this skylark. The village is well known for it’s winter activities - ice skating, tubing, gingerbread hut decorating, and even a visit to Santa’s Workshop. In the summer, there is no shortage of activities, however. Zip-lining, an express train ride, fly fishing, hiking trails, and archery are all available for the family to enjoy.

5. Wildhaven Ranch

This wildlife sanctuary houses animals such as bears, hawks, owls, falcons, bobcats and eagles. While the Ranch is primarily a space to rehabilitate animals that cannot be released into the wild it also doubles as a wonderful educational facility where patrons can also see the beautiful animals.

The benefits of technological and environmental intersection

You’ve gone camping with your family or a group of friends. You’ve unpacked, set up your tent, the sun has set, and the lot of you are chatting around the bonfire. Someone from your group states very generally,

“Ah, there’s really nothing like the great outdoors. It’s nice to finally put technology aside and get in tune with nature.” And to a certain degree they’re right.

During a time where technology and electronics have been assimilated into every aspect of our lives, it can undoubtedly be refreshing to disconnect for a moment and embrace the sort of lifestyle that led our ancestors to this very point in time - Idealistically, it makes sense. However, the dichotomy does not have to be a complete binary. The narrative of Technology vs Environment is old and tired.

What I mean by this is - while we’re living during a time where technology has almost become a symbiotic part of our biology - we’re also living during a time where technology is making attempts to bring us closer to the environment. Imagine a world where people were GPS did not exist. How much more difficult would it be to find a place to hike, or go off of the beaten path and camp - and would we be as inclined to preserve other animal species if we did not have an opportunity to see them, hear them, know their scent, and unconsciously recognize their existence and place on the earth. Would our ancestors knowledge and history be as accessible to the general public without phone apps like “The Night Sky”?

We’re living during a time where a portable water filter can preserve a life in less than ideal circumstances where one is without their own source of clean water. A time where it’s been psychologically proven that listening to nature sounds can improve focus and productivity as well as reducing stress and anxiety.

The big take away here is that technology is helping to give the majority a better understanding of nature and it’s role in sustaining not only human life but also the lives of every other living creature. In other words, it doesn’t have to, and it simply can’t be one or the other.

Don’t Skip Your Vacation!

Too much of anything can be bad, and the same applies to work. Yes, work is what pays the bills, but too much work can lead to a less than healthy mental state which results in more stress at the work place and overall less productive results. A vacation is the perfect way to recharge.

There is nothing wrong with indulging under the right circumstances from time to time to maintain a healthy mental state. Sometimes that means going on a family vacation to maintain your relationships and have some communication and quality time without ulterior motives. Vacations can also lead to more abstract thinking which can directly help improve the way you work.

Having new experiences stimulates the brain and helps to facilitate new thought patterns and ideas. It is easy to condition your brain to become almost robotic in it’s thinking and maybe sometimes you may feel like a chunk of time has passed that you don’t recall.

That is what we refer to as thinking on auto pilot. A healthy brain has exterior stimulation, and a vacation is the perfect way to create this!