by Samantha Stull
Best Hair Extensions and Best Salon: Luxxi Salon
Loren and Jill Brimhall are the beauty gurus behind Luxxi Salon. It is a fullservice salon, offering traditional cut, color and styling services, as well as waxing, makeup application and a full range of hair extension options. A unique aspect of Luxxi Salon is perfect for those who prefer more privacy, quiet or relaxation than available in a typical salon setting with side-by-side stations; the salon actually offers a special VIP area in the back of the salon that is semi-private with a minimum of three stations. Luxxi uses only top-of-the-line hair extension brands and exclusively use and carry the high-quality brands of Oribe, Kevin Murphy and Unite Haircare. Additionally, the salon operates a retail boutique, featuring local clothing and accessory brands like Crystal Wearables. The salon also hosts unique events, like its “Game of Thrones” Halloween Hair Show last fall complete with appearances from the Khaleesi, “Glam White Walkers” and other inhabitants of the world of Westeros. luxxisalon.com.
Best Spin Class: Reformed Pilates & Cycle
In just five years of business, Reformed Pilates & Cycle has opened four studio locations, with a fi fth on the way this spring. Siblings Laura and Peter Morgan started this company together because of Laura’s passion for Pilates and Peter’s business know-how after growing tired of the corporate world. The brand strives to provide members with the best low-impact, high-intensity workout through the cycle classes. Reformed even offers express classes for those on a time crunch. reformedpilates.com. Also a 2017 Winner!
Best Alternative Exercise Option & Personal Training: Recess Endurance Training
The experts at Recess Endurance Training firmly believe there is a difference between just a workout and training your body. The idea at this gym is to train for life, family and a happy version of oneself. Recess is the Valley’s only heated spin facility and offers high-intensity strength classes in heated rooms. The reason behind the heat-based classes is based upon industry studies showing that athletes who train in heat become stronger, faster and can perform longer in both hot and cold climates, not to mention the mental strength required to finish these intense classes. recessendurance.com.
Best Alternative Spa Treatment and Best Facial: MD Skin Lounge
In an era that sees a med spa on every corner, MD Skin Lounge stands out in the crowd as a center of excellence that sets high standards for aesthetic services, skin care and wellness. The lounge offers the latest non-surgical treatments performed by their team of experienced professionals, using the state-of-the-art technology to ensure clients are receiving the most advanced procedures and techniques to receive natural results. mdskinlounge.com.
AFM Fave! Best Hospital Group: Cancer Treatment Centers of America
Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA) believes that every cancer is as unique as the person fighting it, and fighting cancer requires personalized care, delivered by experts trained in the complexities of a difficult disease. Each and every patient is given their own care team, and their integrative approach to cancer treatment, which combines surgery, radiation, chemotherapy and immunotherapy with advancements in precision cancer treatment and supportive therapies designed to manage side effects and enhance quality of life both during and after treatment. CTCA also offers a range of clinical trials designed to reveal new treatments supported by scientific and investigational research, and patients have access to physical, occupational and speech therapies, as well as massage therapy, acupuncture and chiropractic care. cancercenter.com/phoenix. Also a 2017 Winner!
AFM Fave! Best Hair Extensions: Lisa Fresa Palacios
Detail-oriented Lisa Fresa Palacios is extremely passionate about enhancing her client’s natural beauty using hair extensions, color and cuts. Palacios serves both the Valley and travels for out-of-state clients; she specializes in a variety of different hair extension methods and always stays current on industry trends. She has a philanthropic side as well; she works with several Valley organizations to donate wigs and hairextensions.lisafresapalacios.com.
Best Mani/Pedi: Dre’s Hair Salon & Spa
The prime location of Dre’s Hair Salon & Spa, just steps from Scottsdale Quarter and Westin Kierland Resort & Spa, provides luxurious convenience in the North Scottsdale area. The salon’s edgy, contemporary design with bold color accents is alluring even to passersby. The team at Dre’s prides itself on individualized customer service and exceptional work regardless of the service. Master stylist Andre Aronica is the visionary behind Dre’s Hair Salon & Spa with more than 25 years in the industry and an expansive portfolio which includes numerous celebrity clients. dreshairsalon.com.
Best OB/GYN: Dr. Tara Brodkin
With almost two decades of working in the Valley and providing personalized and attentive care, Dr. Tara Brodkin has made a name for herself as one of the leading board-certified OB/GYNs. Her passion is apparent throughout her work, as she is a dedicated physician who strives to make a positive difference in the lives of her patients. Her specializations include preventative care, gynecological procedures, surgical procedures for women of all ages and providing care to expectant mothers and their soon-to-be newborns. After receiving her bachelor’s degree in Microbiology from Cornell University, Dr. Brodkin studied at Sackler School of Medicine and trained in New York at the prestigious New York Presbyterian Hospital—Weill Cornell Medical Center. drtarabrodkin.com. Also a 2017 Winner!
Best Blow Dry Bar: Park Avenue Salon & Blow Dry Bar
As a full-service salon, Park Avenue Salon & Blow Dry Bar knows it’s important to not have to run all around town for your various beauty services. That is why they offer blowouts, cuts, color, spray tans, nail services and more. The highly-skilled stylists primp clients into looking like they stepped out of a magazine upon finishing their appointment. parkavenueblowdry.com.
Best Female Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon: Dr. Patti Flint
Dr. Patti Flint loves the fact that this industry is developing new treatments and procedures every year, as it makes her feel like a lifelong student. Scottsdale-based Dr. Flint says that being a female surgeon gives her a woman’s perception on her patients’ desires for their own bodies. Having performed more than 10,000 cosmetic procedures, Dr. Flint specializes in surgery on the face, breast and body. pattiflintmd.com. Also a 2017 Winner!
Best Male Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon: Dr. Pablo Prichard
The expertise of Dr. Pablo Prichard is apparent. He serves as the Chief of Plastic Surgery at John C. Lincoln Hospital and Medical Director for Plastic Surgery, and is the senior partner at Advanced Aesthetics Associates in Scottsdale. With his 12 years and counting in the industry, he serves more than 2,000 patients every year, specializing in both reconstructive and cosmetic procedures using the latest in plastic surgery technology. Dr. Prichard stays ahead in the industry through his hunger for knowledge and continuous education to stay on the forefront of cutting-edge surgeries and techniques. Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and Diplomat of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, Dr. Prichard has made a name for himself not just within the Valley but nationally as well. drprichard.com. Also a 2017 Winner!
Best Endocrinology: The Horomone Zone/The Sex Docs
The Sex Docs are otherwise known as Drs. John A. Robinson, NMD, and Cristina Romero Bosch, NMD. This power couple owns and operates an innovative Age Management & Regenerative Medicine practice in Scottsdale called The Hormone Zone. Both doctors received degrees from the Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine and possess a combined 24-plus years of experience in Naturopathic Medicine and Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy. The doctors and their team have a complete commitment to comprehensive wellness and guide their patients through each step of their treatment plans. The Hormone Zone feels like more than a traditional doctor’s office because they offer medical solutions and optimal results for conditions that are not often effectively addressed by conventional models. They provide a highly personalized, spalike experience while still addressing complex medical symptoms. In addition to their clinical work in the naturopathic medical field, The Sex Docs are involved in presenting medical research within their field. The Sex Docs are also published authors of two books: the 2017 volume ThyroZone: Real Thyroid Solutions for Better Health & Better Living, following Dr. Robinson’s 2012 book, The Hormone Zone. hormone-zone.com.
Best Botox: The Glam Nurse
Being passionate about health and anti-aging, Eva Unell, known as The Glam Nurse, is committed to providing self-esteem-boosting results to her clients. As a registered nurse, Unell also possesses advanced training in Botox Cosmetic, dermal fillers, Sculptra, microneedling and platelet rich plasma hair rejuvenation treatments. To stay on top of an ever-changing industry, she frequently attends seminars and advanced training to continue to serve her clients at the cutting-edge standard. theglamnurse.com. Also a 2017 Winner!
Best Chiropractor: Dr. Brian Luedke, DC
With a background in both chiropractic practices and exercise science, Dr. Brian Luedke has a well-rounded approach to chiropractic treatments. In addition to his education within the fi eld, he has completed additional studies in Graston and Fascial Distortion Model (FDM) to help patients with muscular components of injury. Dr. Luedke had a practice within the Turley Chiropractic building from 2016 to 2018, where he served the whole family but specialized in sports medicine. Dr. Luedke is currently relocating his office and, until this move is complete, is serving patients out of The Joint in Goodyear. thejoint.com.
Best Day Spa and Best Massage: Movement Restoration
This is not your average day spa; Movement Restoration in Scottsdale is an innovative massage therapy concept that focuses on restoring natural movement back to the body through individualized massage treatments. Movement Restoration caters to those with restricted movement and compression of joints, along with tight muscles or discomfort stemming from repetitive motions and positions throughout one’s daily activities. The practice’s commitment to client healing and recovery is evident based upon its popularity with everyone, including athletes, active adults, businesspeople, youth and rehabilitation clients. movementrestoration.com. Also a 2017 Winner!
Best Hotel Gym and Best Spa Boutique: Well & Being, Fairmont Scottsdale Princess
Step into any one of Well & Being’s 27 tranquil treatment rooms for a soothing, aah-inducing experience. The spa features an inhalation room, both dry and wet saunas, a therapeutic waterfall grotto, an atrium cafe and a carefully curated boutique, complete with an Aromatherapy Blending Bar. The resort spa also has robust fitness options for those at any level. With knowledgeable Wellness Coaches and an expansive offering of group fitness classes including the popular Float Fit Yoga and Wall Yoga, this hotel gym rivals any hometown’s health club and attracts both local and traveling fitness fanatics. scottsdaleprincess.com.
Best New Gym/ Fitness Studio: The Bar Method
Phoenix Barre is a trend sweeping the fitness industry; The Bar Method Phoenix-Arcadia stands out in the crowd for their safe, smart and personal techniques that were created under the guidance of physical therapists. The 4,150-sq.-ft. boutique studio is inviting with a contemporary vibe, relaxed ambience and offers a variety of amenities including on-site showers, a beauty bar, a kids’ room and childcare and a lounge-style waiting area. barmethod.com.
Best Cosmetic Dentist: Joseph Harris
Longtime Valley dentist Dr. Joseph Harris founded Harris Dental in 1979. The practice is known for being passionate in its efforts to do good and help others. Dr. Harris and his team specialize in cosmetic dentistry including porcelain veneers, CEREC porcelain crowns, dental implants and teeth whitening, as well as family, general and emergency dentistry. His extensive experience in the industry has landed Dr. Harris as a Crown Council Member, which is an alliance of leading dentists worldwide. harrisdental.com.
Best Dentist or Dental Team: Paradise Ridge Dentistry
Patients are the priority at Paradise Ridge Dentistry. The qualified team of dentists uses the most advanced dental technologies—that save time, too. The practice prides themselves as a one-stop shop, able to provide services that many other practices would have to refer to a specialist. An added amenity is that Paradise Ridge Dentistry is open on the weekends and late on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. phoenixarizonadentistry.com. Also a 2017 Winner!
Best Fertility Doctor: Dr. John Couvaras
The world of fertility treatments can be difficult to navigate. But Dr. John Couvaras, MD, FACOG is committed to working with patients to design a plan that fits their individual body and desires. He ensures that his clients are comfortable and speaks openly with them to discuss the types of treatment options available to them in their unique circumstance. Dr. Couvaras’ top-notch education and experience in his fi eld guarantees that you will receive the most informed care when making important decisions for your future. ivfphoenix.com. Also a 2017 Winner!
Best Drip Bar and Best Vitamin IV Drip: The Drip Room
At this bar, the “cocktails” are actually good for you. The Drip Room specializes in providing IV vitamin drips for health and wellness in a unique, social environment. This traditional medical treatment with a twist can be done in the form of drips, shots, boosters and more. The Drip Room also offers wellness membership packages for those wanting to come back for multiple services to always feel energized and refreshed. thedriproom.com.
Best Family Doctor: Dr. Susan Wilder
With an impressive medical education from top schools and organizations, Dr. Susan Wilder is board-certified in family medicine, has advanced training in Clinical Genomic and has earned a Certificate of Added Qualifications in Sports Medicine. Dr. Wilder is always hungry to learn new skills and research from the medical industry, along with serving as a family medicine educator herself. She applies her expansive training and expertise to her work at her own practices, LifeScape Medical Associates and LifeScape Premier. lifescapepremier.com. Also a 2017 Winner!
Best Eyelash Extensions: Let’s Lash
Eyelash extensions have quickly become a beauty essential for many women of all ages. Let’s Lash serves Scottsdale women interested in the popular service by specializing in both individual and advanced volume lash techniques. The beauty pros are also able to customize the look of the lashes to fit each individual client’s eye-fluttering needs. letslash.com. Also a 2017 Winner!
Best Hair Stylist: April Russell
Walking through the door of the April Russell’s salon, Firefly Hair Lounge in Glendale, is reminiscent of the whimsical, warm feeling you’d get as a child running through a field full of fireflies at night. Russell has been a licensed hairstylist since 2005 and very early in her career discovered her passion for both hair color and education. Coloring hair of all lengths and textures is Russell’s specialty, from balayage to “mermaid hair.” Russell also finds great joy in educating others in her industry, which is why she implements education within her salon as well as teaches nationwide. fireflyhairlounge.com. Also a 2017 Winner!
Best Resort Spa: The Red Door Salon & Spa, The Wigwam
The Red Door Salon & Spa is committed to upholding Elizabeth Arden’s century-long legacy as a classic, quintessential New York brand. Its placement at The Wigwam provides an authentic Arizona spin on the spa’s iconic and distinct character. The spa offers a wide range of award winning, signature services from hair and nail offerings, custom facials or a full rejuvenating spa day packed with a variety of treatments that will leave you feeling perfectly pampered. wigwamarizona.com. Also a 2017 Winner!
AFM Fave! Best Concierge Medical Service Doctor: Housecalls of Paradise Valley
In 2010, Doctor Housecalls of Paradise Valley became the first mobile urgent care provider in the Valley. In the comfort and privacy of your home, hotel or workplace, Dr. Steven Lipsky and his team of board-certified emergency physicians use their decades of experience to provide high-quality, comprehensive care for loyal patients of all ages (on-site lab tests, IV therapy and bedside X-ray and ultrasound services are even available). And even though they can’t name names, Doctor Housecalls of Paradise Valley counts celebrities among the provider’s patients. drhousecallsofpv.com.
Best Dermatologist: Dr. Adriana K. Holy
Natural beauty and balance are what’s important for Dr. Adriana K. Holy. The Harvard- and Northwestern University-educated dermatologist focuses on building beauty from the inside out through her novel holistic approach to dermatology. She practices both medical and cosmetic dermatology, making her office a one-stop shop for both traditional dermatology treatments and evaluations, as well as comprehensive cosmetic laser resurfacing and new FDA-approved laser fat and cellulite reduction, skin care, micro-needling, PRP for hair growth and facial rejuvenation, various other cosmetic injections, and so much more. Her specialty is rejuvenation using fillers and the natural facelift; she does all her own cosmetic injections so patients can expect the most quality experience. With her dermatology patients, after addressing areas for improvement and treating immediate skin concerns, she likes to help and encourage patients to transition from relying solely on traditional medicine to incorporating dietary management and natural supplements, targeted toward managing their conditions. This practice and commitment sets her apart in both the medical and cosmetic dermatology industry. She focuses on beauty beginning at the skin level and that is evident through her work, passion and commitment to “wow” results through subtle changes. Best of all, Dr. Holy treats each and every patient like family. mddermsolutions.com.
Best Orthodontist: Affiliated Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics
Smiles are the specialty at Affiliated Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics (APDO). The experienced doctors, Drs. Bruce Goldstein, Michael Feinberg and Tal Masserman, hope that the journey to straighter teeth is more than just that, but also a discovery of a greater sense of confidence and self-esteem. The APDO orthodontic team serves both children and adults, offering traditional metal braces and more discreet options. smilesbyapdo.com. Also a 2017 Winner!
Best Physical Therapist: Dr. Kevin Williams
As a highly skilled physical therapist and strength and conditioning coach, Dr. Kevin Williams specializes in treating orthopedic and sports injuries, as well as injury prevention. He has developed his skills with the United States Army as a combat medic, as well as with the Los Angeles Dodgers, learning about sports medicine first-hand working with high-level athletes. williamsperformancept.com.
Best Spray Tan: Sugar Sugar
As the salon’s name touts, the natural and organic spray tan solution is derived from the sugar of organic apples and pears. Sugar Sugar’s custom formula produces a gorgeous golden brown on clients, without the unpleasant odor and toxic chemicals. (It’s even approved for expectant mothers!) Additionally, Sugar Sugar offers sugaring hair removal and a number of skin-soothing organic and vegan facials. mysugarsugar.com.
Best Microblading: Bladed
Bladed can help you reach your eyebrow goals through microblading, the semi-permanent cosmetic procedure that has recently exploded in popularity throughout the beauty industry. Owner Brittney Brennan created the modern brow studio because of her strong desire to help people from all walks of life feel more beautiful with natural looking eyebrow transformations. bladedbybritt.com.
Best Trainer: Ty Mealey
Ty Mealey of Tytin Fitness was inspired by fitness from the moment he first stepped into a gym. At just 10 years old, he accompanied his mother to the gym and quickly started developing an understanding of the dynamics of working out. Training a few friends as a side hustle motivated Mealey to become a certified trainer and eventually pursue personal training full-time. This was when Tytin Fitness, LLC was born in the summer of 2016; the studio now employs five other trainers and offers personal training services, bootcamps and specialty classes focusing on weight loss, lifestyle fitness coaching and competition preparation. Mealey prides his studio on the genuine care and interest they take in their clients’ health and well-being. tytinfitness.com.
Best Waxing: Olga Brow Studio
Clients call her “The Brow Goddess” with good reason; she can turn any eyebrows from unruly to the perfect fit for any face. Olga Zelek’s 15 years of beauty experience includes training and working with some of the finest makeup and skin care brands on the market including Chanel and Anastasia Beverly Hills at Nordstrom. The precision in her work and excellent reputation have led her to be one of the most sought-after eyebrow artists in Scottsdale. Zelek and her team of talented eyebrow artists at Olga Brow Studio meticulously assist clients in determining the best shape of brows to frame their face and complement the eyes. The studio also offers other aesthetic services, including waxing, tinting and lash lifting. olgabrowstudio.com.
Best Veterinarian: Dr. Matthew Davis
Dr. Matthew Davis of Adobe Animal Hospital is an enthusiastic, longtime veterinarian with more than 20 years of experience. He has practiced in Oregon, where he grew up, as well as throughout the Valley. His favorite aspect of his job as a small-animal practitioner is being able to interact with clients, teaching them how to provide their furry friends with a long, happy and healthy life. His veterinary specializations include internal and preventive medicine and dermatology. Dr. Davis also serves as a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association and the Arizona Veterinary Medical Association. adobeanimalhospital.com.
Best Barre Studio: Re-Barre Studio
North Scottsdale Barre is quickly increasing in popularity in the fitness community thanks to its incorporation of ballet techniques, core work, strength training and intermittent cardio. Re-Barre Studio, a locally grown brand, believes in a customized approach to the ultra-popular workout method, so that no two classes are ever the same and women and men of all shapes, sizes and ages are accommodated. In addition to its namesake Re-Barre classes, the studio also offers Buti yoga, Zumba, meditation and plenty of other classes, so there is always an offering that fits your needs and fitness level on any given day. rebarrestudioaz.com.
Best Yoga Studio: Vibetality
This is not your average yoga studio; Vibetality implements whole-body vibration technology into the floor of its classrooms to revolutionize the way people work out. The studio’s menu of fitness, yoga, core strength, meditative and body renewal-based classes performed on the innovative vibrating floor boast incredible health benefits and are less time-consuming than typical fitness methods. A commitment to Vibetality’s methods can lead to muscle toning and strengthening in as little as three weeks. vibetality.com. Also a 2017 Winner!
Best Pilates Studio: Remedy Pilates & Barre
This boutique Scottsdale fitness studio offers the “remedy” to those ready to break-up with the common workout. Remedy Pilates & Barre offers dynamic group classes like Body Blast, Burn at the Barre, several styles of yoga, TRX and, of course, Pilates. Additionally, the studio offers private training, youth conditioning programs and is a certified Pilates Sports Center Teacher Training facility. The classes are designed to help members build a powerful core through form focused, easy-to-understand direction to provide muscle strengthening and total-body conditioning.remedypm.com. Also a 2017 Winner!
AFM Fave! Best Male Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon: Dr. Marc Malek
Being one of the most accommodating surgeons in the area, Dr. Marc Malek is dedicated to helping patients enjoy improved bodies through precise results that meet the client’s needs. The Scottsdale-based expert surgeon has extensive training from prestigious programs; he graduated from University of Arizona and completed his residency in General Surgery at University of Missouri in Kansas City. He then went on to a fellowship in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at Wake Forest University Bowman Gray School of Medicine. Dr. Malek now specializes in body and breast procedures and is dedicated to achieving artistic results with every surgery. As an award-winning surgeon, he is also certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, Arizona Medical Association, and American Medical Association. marcmalekmd.com.
Best Hospice: Hospice of the Valley
For more than 40 years, Hospice of the Valley has cared for families at one of the most vulnerable times of their lives. Focusing on quality of life, the compassionate staff and a dedicated volunteer force 2100 strong– support patients and caregivers with tender touches like massage therapy to ease pain, music therapy to enliven dementia patients, and pet therapy to bring cheer. As the first hospice in Arizona, and one of the largest not-for-profit hospices in the nation, the agency offers many no-cost community programs like grief support for all, and provided more than 10 million dollars in charity care last year for those without insurance. hov.org. Also a 2017 Winner!
Fast Favorites
Best Hot Yoga: The Madison Improvement Club, themadisonvibe.com.
Best Country Club Fitness Center: La Casa, The Club at Encanterra, lacasainteractive.com.
Best Hospital Group: St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center, dignityhealth.org.
Best Psychiatrist in Scottsdale/Paradise Valley: Gary Grove,MD, garygrovemd.com.
AFM Fave! Best Resort Spa: Joya Spa, Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia, omnimontelucia.com. Also a 2017 Winner!
AFM Fave! Best Gym: Bodi, scottsdalebodi.com. Also a 2017 Winner!
AFM Fave! Best Spray Tan: Sungun Tanning, sunguntanning.com. Also a 2017 Winner!
Best Bootcamp: AZ Training Lab, aztraininglab.com. Also a 2017 Winner!
Best Gym and Best Interval Training: Results Only Fitness, resultsonly.com. Also a 2017 Winner!
Favorite Worship Center: Scottsdale Bible Church, scottsdalebible.com. Also a 2017 Winner!
