For me, the charm of a Southern California summer is irresistible and always brings with it a sense of freedom, fun and adventure. It’s a time to head to the beach, to take that much needed vacation and most importantly, to spend time with friends and family. As many of our readers know, our Summer issue is dedicated as the men’s issue and this year we decided to try something different, featuring our first-ever male cover and fashion shoot on location in the woods. We are very excited to see what our readers have to say about the cover once the Summer issue hits the stands.

Choosing a cover and fashion shoot model is never an easy task, but when we decided to put a male on the cover, I knew the perfect man for the job. I’ve known model and photographer John Watkins for almost ten years and have worked with him in the past, so naturally I was thrilled when he agreed to model for our men’s shoot. His look was the perfect fit for what I had in mind for the cover—rugged, yet sophisticated with an all-around Southern California athletic image. Not only did John bring over 30 years of modeling experience to the shoot but he was also great to work with and quickly became a part of the bask family.

At bask, we all work together to bring both the fashion shoots and editorial together in perfect harmony. We have some outstanding editorial featured in this issue that really captures the spirit of summer freedom, adventure, style and luxury. Our style pages will keep you looking fabulous at the beach with helpful tips on finding stylish sunglasses, figure-flattering suits and moisturizing sunscreens. There is nothing like a Southern California summer and our editorial has all the best ways to spend it in style and elegance with features on the arrival of seven trendy stores and eateries at SoCo, Palihouse Santa Monica and its newest luxury beach lodge, the opening of David Wilhelm’s JFAT in Orange County, and some of San Diego’s most fashionable dining venues. For those seeking a little more adventure, discover all the wild terrain and unparalleled beauty that South Africa has to offer with our editorial featuring a mother and son’s journey across this captivating country.

Summer is all about creating memories, whether you are exploring all that Southern California has to offer or are off on an adventure in another part of the world—the best of these memories are created when surrounded by friends and family.