PRESIDENT / HOME CURATION CHAIR

What’s your “why” for starting SCHT? Community, community, community! We all rise together.

If you could time travel, what era of San Clemente History would you visit? If I could time travel to any era of San Clemente history, it would be back to the 90s when I was in high school at SCHS. I’m a sucker for nostalgia. 

What’s your favorite taco in Town? My favorite taco is the shrimp taco at Nomads.

What’s the best trail or outdoor adventure you’ve done in San Clemente? The best (and toughest) trail in SC is the Rollercoaster hike to the Patriot Trail.

VICE PRESIDENT / ACTING TREASURER / LOGISTICS CHAIR

What’s your “why” for joining SCHT? I spent 20 years of my career as a management consultant - always doing new things and finding the next best practice. So helping the start of SC Home Tour appeals to my interest in tackling new opportunities. It certainly helps that the results go straight to support my kids’ schools.

What’s your favorite San Clemente Memory? I first came to visit San Clemente in my 30s. My boyfriend (now husband) and I spent my first afternoon here lying on a blanket and reading together at Calafia. The laid back vibe and November sunshine hooked me for life.

What’s the best local event or festival you never miss? We love taking our three kids to all the city sponsored activities like Santa’s Village by the Sea, the Del Mar Halloween Treat Street or the Cinco de Mayo Fiesta at Max Berg Park.

What’s your favorite hidden gem in San Clemente? I love the space at Nomad’s - once you’re inside it’s like you’re in a secret speakeasy or something. And they have my favorite tacos in town although the taco starter at Sol Agave is a close second.

SECRETARY / SPONSORSHIP CHAIR

BOARD DIRECTOR / HOME CURATION, BOUTIQUE / PARTIES SUPPORT

What’s your “why” for joining SCHT? Wanting to spotlight the massive design community in San Clemente. We have such a unique array of styles that showcase the amazing coastal community with diverse styles, but in particular, the classic Ole Hansen Spanish style, which is my favorite.

What’s one thing people would be surprised to learn about you? I’m a Dana Point native and swore I would never live in San Clemente (high school rival), but moved to San Clemente in 2020 and no one could pay me to leave. I love the people and the pace of San Clemente.

If you could only eat at one SC restaurant for the rest of your life, which one would it be? 9 Style Sushi.

How do you describe San Clemente to people who have never been here? SC is the last rootsy surf town left in Orange County. The whole community is welcoming, kind and inclusive, sticking to their roots and never bringing in any businesses that stray from that mentality.

BOARD DIRECTOR / COMMUNICATIONS CHAIR

What’s your “why” for joining SCHT? To help spread the good word and raise awareness, involvement, and sponsorship of our amazing local schools. I’m deeply passionate about bolstering community spirit in our Spanish Village by the Sea.

If there was a movie title that describes SC, what would it be? When Heather Met San Clemente (because if there’s a movie that captures enduring love, it’s When Harry Met Sally). I only wish I was around to see the era when our town was springing to life with the Ole Hansen architecture and spearfishing with the OG’s from Shorecliffs.

If I could open any business in SC, what would it be? As a Landscape Designer, I would love to open up a Flora Grubb (SF/LA) style institution that includes a nursery/home goods/mezcaleria bar so locals could sip, shop, garden, and gather for inspired landscape talks.

How do you describe SC to friends and strangers? In my travels, I’ve come across countless people who remarked, “I LOVE San Clemente,” when telling them about my hometown. From Uber drivers, to total strangers met in Mexico City, I’ve found that San Clemente has a rep for welcoming vibes, unparalleled surf culture, and unique beach town beauty.

BOARD DIRECTOR / PARTIES COMMITTEE, BRANDING COMMITTEE, BREAKFAST/LUNCHEON COMMITTEE

What’s your “why” for joining SCHT? I joined SCHT not only for the friends I get to work with, but I am so proud of the charm and history of San Clemente. I love the idea of sharing our towns design diversity while supporting local businesses and our schools!

If you could live a day in the life of a surfer, would you? Or are you more of a beach chair and book kind of person? I leave the surfing to my husband. Give me a chair and a book on ANY beach in San Clemente and I’m happy!

What's the best spot in town to catch a sunset? T-Street!

What's your go-to playlist for a drive along Pacific Coast Highway? From Pennywise to Grateful Dead and everything in between.

BRANDING COMMITTEE

DOCENT CHAIR, SPONSORSHIP COMMITTEE

What’s your “why” for joining SCHT? Hi, I’m Jill Mitzev—a real estate professional by trade and a community supporter at heart. I’m excited to be volunteering for the 2025 San Clemente Home Tour to give back to the town I love and help support our incredible local schools. When I’m not helping people find their perfect homes, I’m usually organizing something, pitching in, or admiring one of our amazing local views. I believe in strong foundations—whether in real estate or education—and I’m proud to be part of an event that celebrates both.

What’s your favorite hidden gem in San Clemente? High Tide is my favorite local spot. Their rose latte is pink-hued perfection in a mug. You’ll often find me on the patio with a friend and our pups, sipping our lattes after a walk on the trail.

What’s the best spot in town to catch a sunset? I love to catch the sunset while sitting on the hill at Linda Lane beach. It has the quintessential San Clemente view - pier, trail, surf, and sand.

If you had to live in one San Clemente neighborhood forever, which one would it be? I like life west of the 5—it’s where San Clemente lives and breathes. Things can be a little tighter, a little busier, and a little more colorful, but our town has a vibe that is uniquely its own, and west of the 5 is where it shines.

WEBSITE COMMITTEE, HOME CURATION COMMITTEE

What’s your “why” for joining SCHT? As a local interior designer in San Clemente, I’m passionate about the unique style and character that defines our town. Though I grew up in a small beach town in Rhode Island, San Clemente's coastal charm and tight-knit community make it feel like home.

I love this town and want to give back to the place that’s given me so much. Joining the Home Tour Committee is a way to celebrate our beautiful homes while contributing to the continued growth and heart of San Clemente. I’m excited to share my design perspective and be part of something that uplifts our community.

Do you prefer surfing T-Street or hiking in the hills? I grew up swimming competitively and spent every summer surfing, so anything water-related is where I feel most at home. Whether it’s catching waves at T-Street or just being near the ocean, the water will always be my happy place.

What’s the best spot in town to catch the sunset? Hands down, T-Street. My favorite thing is walking my (very cute) dog Romeo down there in the evenings. Whether we just walk or grab a bench to chill for a bit, it’s the best way to end the day.

What’s your go-to playlist for a drive along PCH? During the day, it’s all about country—windows down, sun out, good vibes. But come evening, I usually switch it up with a mix of Noah Kahan, Mumford & Sons, and Norah Jones for a more mellow, feel-good drive.

LOGISTICS COMMITTEE

What’s your “why” for joining SCHT? I joined the SC Home Tour team to help give back to the public schools in San Clemente. My husband and I have three kids in three different San Clemente schools.  We have been very pleased with our kids’ public school education experiences so far, and know that each campus deserves more money per student than what they’re getting. I try to live by the ‘Think Globally, Act Locally’ concept.  I’ve been enjoying the SC Garden Tour for many years and when I was approached to help with the SC Home Tour, I gladly joined, knowing it would be with an amazing group of local business owners! 

What’s one thing people would be surprised to learn about you? I used to drive an 80-passenger big yellow school bus for a summer sports camp I worked at through my high school and college years.  So naturally, I decided to help with the transportation + logistics portion of the SC Home Tour.

What’s the best trail or outdoor adventure you’ve done in San Clemente? I love hiking the Patriot Trail in San Clemente + San Juan Capistrano.

What’s your favorite thing to do in San Clemente? I love playing beach volleyball at Lost Winds or Doheny.

ACCOUNTING COMMITTEE / CHECK-IN COMMITTEE

What’s your “why” for joining SCHT? I initially visited SCHT for the chance to spend more time with friends, but I quickly came to appreciate—and wanted to be part of—the greater mission: bringing the community together to celebrate local businesses, San Clemente’s distinctive architecture and design, and to support our public schools. Along the way, I also discovered that SCHT is made up of an incredible and talented group of volunteers.

What is your favorite San Clemente memory? Bonfires on the beach! I've hosted everything from kid and adult birthdays to book club gatherings, Boy Scout events, holiday celebrations, end-of-school-year paper burnings—and sometimes, just because. My go-to spots? Linda Lane and T-Street. There’s nothing like the glow of a fire with a sunrise or sunset backdrop. Yep, I am in for morning bonfires too. Pure magic.

Where would we most likely spot you around town? Chasing great live music around town!  Whether relaxing at Los Molinos with a hard kombucha, dancing off my favorite SC pizza at Gibroni’s, or squeezing in at the bar at Beachfire, I love San Clemente’s local music scene.

If you could time travel, what era of San Clemente history would you visit? If I could slip through time, I’d land at San Onofre State Beach in the 1960s—drawn by the free-flowing Aloha spirit and the laid-back, bohemian lifestyle. Music in the air, bare feet in the sand, endless surf, vibrant colors, laughter, peace and love- all woven together by the strong sense of community that still endures today.

TBD

What’s your “why” for joining SCHT? What a great way to get involved in our community and get to know other like-minded women who share similar interests, and helping out our local schools is just the cherry on top! I'm a huge advocate for supporting our local schools! Sign me up!

What’s one thing people would be surprised to learn about you? I'm a transplant from Central Florida. I had a wild idea to move to CA, since the surf culture has always fascinated me. Thankfully, my husband surfs and was pumped to move here too! We moved to San Clemente in 2015 and can't imagine raising our kids anywhere else!

What's the best spot in town to catch a sunset? There's so many but my favorite is a spot on the bluff in a neighborhood off La Rambla Road near T Street. My family and I grab bagels to-go at Bagel Shack and head here on weekend mornings, too.

What’s your favorite thing about living in a surf town, even if you don’t surf? There's a feeling you get cruising around town, everyone's mainly just hanging outside enjoying our beautiful weather, watching barefoot groms at parks (all over really), noticing wetsuits hanging to dry from passing vehicles or porches, and just a very laid-back vibe all around. There's a real sense of community here and it's one of those surf towns people vacation to or visit and think "wow, what a cool place!”

ACCOUNTING / TICKETING COMMITTEE

What’s your “why” for joining SCHT? The SCHT is a creative way to get involved in our community and increase funding for our local students. I  come from a family of educators and have a middle schooler at Vista Del Mar and see the value in supplementing public education as best we can. 

If you could open any kind of business in San Clemente, what would it be? A wine tasting bar with a view of the SC Pier.  I love The Cellar and Barnoa but wish they had views of the beautiful ocean. 

What’s one thing people would be surprised to learn about you? I used to own a calligraphy business and have hand-addressed over 20,000 wedding invitations! 

 What’s your go-to playlist for a drive along Pacific Coast Highway? Definitely going Yacht Rock.

SPONSORSHIP COMMITTEE

What’s your “why” for joining SCHT? The reason I’m thrilled to join the San Clemente Housing Tour is simple: it’s all about supporting our incredible schools! As a former public middle school teacher and a dedicated volunteer in San Clemente schools and foundations for 13 years, I’ve seen firsthand how deeply our community invests in its kids. Our schools are 100% committed to shaping young minds, and that’s what makes San Clemente shine. Both of my kids have grown up in San Clemente and are thriving Because of this beautiful village! San Clemente kids grow into amazing individuals who give back and make our town even better. It’s a full-circle celebration of education, community, and the future! #onetownoneteam.

How do you describe San Clemente to people who have never been here? San Clemente is a vibrant beach town that truly has something for everyone, regardless of age! Imagine a place where kids can go to amazing schools, ride their bikes freely, skateboard, or play golf at the local municipal course. Kids can enjoy storytime at the library, participate in fun festivals, and take advantage of amazing classes through Park and Rec. The ocean offers endless play opportunities, from surfing to beach walks and play. For adults, and the elderly there’s a lively scene with movies, yoga studios, scenic walks on the beach trail, and hill hikes. Art fairs and festivals are always happening, adding to the town’s charm. Plus, there are book clubs at the library and weekly coffee meetup. And if you’re feeling adventurous, hop on the trolley for a scenic ride to nearby Dana Point or Laguna Beach. And of course, our downtown provides amazing restaurants and shopping for everyone. San Clemente is a haven where everyone can find their perfect spot!

If you had to leave San Clemente for a year, what would you miss most about it? Leaving San Clemente for a year would be a serious bummer, but it’s not just the unbeatable weather that makes it hard to say goodbye. This coastal gem has a community that’s truly one-of-a-kind, where everyone looks out for each other in a way that feels like one big team. The vibe is all about supporting your neighbors and having each other’s backs. Plus, with its stunning beaches and endless outdoor adventures there’s truly no place in the world that is better, San Clemente is basically the ultimate playground for all! Whether you’re surfing, hiking, or just soaking up the sun, everyday here literally feels like a dream. San Clemente is a place that is impossible to replicate anywhere else.

What is your favorite nearby day trip from San Clemente? My favorite quick getaway from San Clemente is a hike and lunch in Laguna Beach, it’s the ultimate mini-vacation! The breathtaking views from the hills feel like your gazing down on a Hawaiian beach, with stunning coves and crystal-clear waters. Laguna Beach is a slice of paradise right here in California. Whether you’re hiking a trail, exploring the tide pools or snorkeling, every moment in Laguna Beach is a treat. And after working up an appetite, the charming downtown area offers a plethora of delicious dining options to cap off your mini vacation.

TBD

HOME CURATION COMMITTEE

BOARD DIRECTOR / PARTIES COMMITTEE / SPONSORSHIP COMMITTEE

What’s your “why” for joining SCHT? With my kids & design passion at the forefront of my every day, what could be better than investing my time & energy in our community to help showcase SC home curation with the end goal to then give back to our youth who are the future of our beautiful town? We have such a rich history here in San Clemente, our little Spanish Village by the Sea. I have so much love for art, design & architecture…there is soo much of it going on right here in our little, but mighty, surf town. Looking forward to sharing our most curated homes, both historic & modern, with our community of friends & families, with our children’s public schools receiving the direct benefit of all our combined efforts!

What’s your favorite hidden gem in San Clemente? Sooo many, but two of my most frequented stops are Rapport Coffee shop, great community, surfy moody coffee shop vibes, jazzy feel good music, best fresh roasted beans, best place to pull out an art/surf/design book in a dark corner while sippin’ on your cappuccino. Then, I’ll take that coffee and head to my favorite San Clemente gem, La Casa Verde de Granada. Did I mention it’s in an old Ole Hanson home? Behold the quaintest and diversely curated co-op antique shop. Great coffee with antique home décor retail therapy = guaranteed good morning for me.

What’s your favorite way to spend a lazy weekend afternoon in San Clemente. When there’s no plans, which are my favorite weekends ☺, I always choose grabbing coffee on Del Mar, hitting all my favorite stops at the SC Farmer’s Market, which usually includes some fresh flowers and farm eggs, then doing a longgg family walk on the beach trail. The SC beach trail is one of my happy places. Exercising next to the beach while seeing, hearing, & smelling the ocean is just something I will always be grateful for…Instant endorphin boost!

If you could time travel, what era of San Clemente history would you visit? I would go back to the late 1920’s when the Ole Hanson homes were built…I’d find my way into one of those Spanish homes overlooking T-street & hide so I’d never have to leave.

HOME CURATION COMMITTEE

DOCENT COMMITTEE / SPONSORSHIP COMMITTEE

What’s your “why” for joining SCHT? Home Owner and Realtor in San Clemente for over 20 years. Love this town, community, and all the long-standing traditions. Excited to volunteer and see the beautiful homes on tour. Looking forward to giving back to this Community that I cherish while raising money for the local schools that helped support and shape who my kids are today.

What’s your favorite hidden gem in San Clemente? The ocean view from the top of the stairs by 204’s and North Beach.

What’s your favorite way to spend a perfect beach day? At T-Street with family and friends, then grabbing dinner at Nomad’s after sunset.

What’s your favorite thing about living in a surf town, even if you don’t surf? I love running the beach trail with my dog while watching the locals surf and enjoy the water.