There’s only 51 shopping days until Christmas…so let’s forget about that and have fun this weekend!

In Partnership with Connect California Homes

We are SUPER excited to collaborate with Katie Moe, founding partner of Connect California Homes, for a monthly Q&A on all things real estate in the Tri-Valley!

QUESTION: Is staging really necessary to get top dollar?

ANSWER from Katie Moe: Absolutely — staging isn’t just about decorating, it’s about storytelling. Buyers shop with their hearts first, and staging helps them imagine their life in a home. Not only that but staging sets the tone with showing up beautifully online. Pretty much 100% of buyers look online first, so professional staging and photography matters! In the Tri-Valley, staged homes consistently sell faster and for higher prices than vacant ones. The goal is to highlight space, light, and lifestyle — not perfection. Even light staging, like fresh linens, art, and greenery, can make a big impact. I partner with designers who know what resonates locally, from family-friendly layouts to sophisticated touches that reflect our local style.

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Connect California Homes is redefining real estate in the East Bay with authenticity, advocacy, and a true commitment to community. Founded by Katie Moe and her partners, this team of expert agents brings creative strategies and tailored support that go far beyond buying and selling. They’re here to build lasting relationships and make every client feel at home from the very first connection.

Have questions or want to connect with Katie? Click here to email her directly.

If you follow @trivalleyexplorer on Instagram, you already know how much I love Laughs in a Glass at 3 Steves Winery! 🍷😂

So many of you have told me you discovered this show through Tri-Valley Explorer, and I love that — it really is one of the best nights out around. Great comedy, local food truck eats, and of course, plenty of wine and beer.

Tomorrow night is the final show of the season, and you don’t want to miss it. Ben Feldman is headlining, and the fun kicks off at 7:30 PM — but trust me, get there early to grab food, a drink, and a good seat!

👉 Click here for tickets.

🛍️ Sip, Shop & Support the Arts!

Join San Francisco Premium Outlets this Friday, November 7 from 5–8PM for an exclusive evening of shopping, sipping, and giving back!

Enjoy Black Friday preview collections, wine tastings, small bites, and live entertainment with skip-the-line access at designer stores like Givenchy, Moncler, Tory Burch, Jimmy Choo, Max Mara, and more.

🎟️ Tickets are $15 in advance or $20 at the door and include a commemorative wine glass and raffle entry — with all proceeds benefiting Livermore Valley Arts.

✨ Check-in at the East or West entrance and make it a night to remember!
👉 Click here for tickets.

Though most families spend Thanksgiving cozied up at home with food and football, sometimes it’s fun to switch things up — and that’s exactly what my family did last year! 🦃✨

We headed to Posada for an incredible dinner that blended traditional Thanksgiving favorites with vibrant Latin flavors for a truly unforgettable meal. Every dish was bursting with creativity and warmth — we’d absolutely do it again!

Check out this menu  — it’s a feast that the entire family will love!

🛒 Fresh deals, just for you! Take a peek at this week’s grocery store specials around the Tri-Valley. Happy shopping and happy saving!

🐾 Meet Princess Buttercup — Such a Cute Adoptable Pet of the Week! 💕

We’re so excited to partner with Valley Humane Society for an adoptable Pet of the Week, and this girl is a keeper! 💗

It’s “Inconceivable!” that anyone could resist Princess Buttercup—a sweet, clever, and cuddle-loving pup who’s ready to make every day a fairy tale. Well-mannered and delightfully affectionate, she’s the loyal companion you’ve been seeking. Adopt Princess Buttercup today and let true love win the day—as you wish!  Call Valley Humane at (925) 426-8656 or email [email protected] to get started with the adoption process.  

Princess Buttercup is a young adult and will be around 44lbs when fully grown.

Learn more or meet her through Valley Humane Society! Call 925-426-8656 to learn how you can adopt Princess Buttercup!