Boerne, TX September 2023

CENTRAL TEXAS’ PREMIER, AWARD WINNING CUSTOM HOME BUILDER SPECIALIZING IN INNOVATIVE DESIGN AND DISTINCTIVE QUALITY

Aggie and Marine Corps veteran Brad Morris, with his wife Andrea, and their son Gage, the namesake of their company.

COMMITTED TO EXCEEDING YOUR DREAMS

Style Beyond Fashion!

The greater Boerne area continues to grow, and there are many reasons. For some it is our highly rated schools. For others it is the choice of great country clubs and recreation. And still for others it is our churches and community organizations. These are all tangible and meaningful reasons, yet there is something underneath it all. I like to call it the “Style of Boerne.”  It is distinctive, and, although long out of fashion in other communities, we still have that small hometown feel.

How many of you, on your first trip down main street, said things like this? “I love this place!” “I’d love to live here!” My guess is many of you did. The greater Boerne area is a wonderful mix of small-town design with a modern aesthetic. Our residents and visitors experience iconic historic buildings that house our fine retailers and wonderful restaurants. We enjoy antique car shows, concerts in the park, and holiday parades. And we celebrate each other in meaningful ways. Just think of when the Boerne High School Girls Soccer Team left for their state finals game this year. The streets of Boerne were lined with people cheering them on with signs, applause, and encouragement. That event epitomizes the “Style of Boerne.”

This month we present some of our fashion retailers, a style event worth attending, a top luxury home builder, a fusion restaurant, and expert advice from an art connoisseur and gallery curator. Our cover features a Boerne resident who is a world-famous speaker and supermodel, Alison Canavan.  Alison, like so many others, was drawn to make Boerne home, and we are glad she did.

As eclectic as our town is, the Greater Boerne Style can be summed up in one phrase: We have a love of life and community.

See you at the Style Show!

With joy and blessings,

September 2023

PUBLISHER

Tara Bové | tara.bove@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Daniel Gertson | daniel.gertson@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Jessi Edison | jessi.edison@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Brianna Perez | brianna.perez@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Sophie Winterle | sophie.winterle@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Rey Lopez, Brian McVey, Jennifer Edwards, Daniel Gertson, Sophie Winterle

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Paula VM, Sophie Winterle, Jessi Edison, Lauren Keller

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman

LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman

TARA BOVÉ, PUBLISHER @BOERNELIFESTYLE

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city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

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Blinds In Motion

The Texas heat can even make the inside unbearable if you don't have blinds that are up to the challenge. BlindsNMotion can help keep your home or business cool. Their extensive experience and outstanding customer service can meet all your needs, from shutters to shades, to draperies, motorization, and more. If your window treatments aren't delivering the function and style you deserve, call BlindsNMotion today!

The Graves Group

Fair oaks ranch

8040 rolling acres trail. Fabulous 4 bedroom, 3.5+ bath home on 6.6 park-like acres. Features a master-chef’s kitchen, dual-sided fireplace and resort-style master suite with spa bath. Wrap-around porch and balcony offer stunning views. Luxurious indoor/outdoor living at its finest – $1,800,000

St. John Lutheran School

St. John Lutheran Church has a history of educating the Boerne community, and this fall, StJLC begins its own school for Pre-K through 5th-grade students. StJLC School strives to be an affordable option for parents seeking private schooling for their children. Utilizing the Abeka curriculum, the school aims to serve as an extension of a child's home and church. StJLC School is a small school for big change.

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Christian Job Corps of Kendall-Bandera Counties

Christian Job Corps Kendall–Bandera Counties is about life-transformation and restoring hope. The nonprofit's major focus is working with those incarcerated and on probation, but they also assist those needing employment. You can learn how you can support this mission at a luncheon fundraiser on September 21st.

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SEPTEMBER 2023

local experiences

The best places and things to do in our area.

Everyone loves a closet refresh and stylish scene, so we’ve rounded up some of our picks for the most sophisticated and fashionable destinations that will have you feeling renewed as well as ready for the camera.

Our Picks for The Style Scene

J. FORKS: J. Forks is a boutique located on Main Street in Boerne. So if you're looking to up your style game be sure to stop in!  470 S Main St Unito 101, Boerne, TX

BOTERO TAPAS & WINE BAR: For authentic Spanish cuisine, go "tapeando" at  Botero Tapas & Wine Bar. The style and ambiance alone are worth the visit!

161 S Main St, Boerne, TX

LA CANTERA RESORT & SPA: La Cantera Resort & Spa offers total relaxation. Their award-winning spa invokes the spirit of Hill Country.  16641 La Cantera Pkwy, San Antonio, TX

THE PEARL ANTLER: The  Pearl Antler  is a lot of glamour, some sparkle, and a little sass. This boutique is always patriotic and totally outrageous!

322 S Main St. Ste A, Boerne, TX

THE CREEK RESTAURANT: The Creek Restaurant is nestled along Cibolo Creek, steps away from the Main Street bridge. Enjoy their delectable menu and charming ambiance.  119 Staffel Street, Boerne, TX

Scan for more photos and the full list.

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Boots on the Rail Ranch is a rare gem, situated just outside of Boerne, Texas and a short drive from San Antonio. Care and thought has gone into virtually every detail of this stunning 118-acre property. It features two immaculately designed custom homes and an array of stunning amenities that any ranch enthusiast would love to call their own.

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WELCOME HOME TO HILL COUNTRY LUXURY

G. MORRIS CUSTOM HOMES MAKES DREAMS OF LIVING IN STYLE COME TRUE

The beauty of the Hill Country might be the Lone Star State’s worst-kept secret, so it’s no surprise that so many people make it their new home each year. With its rolling hills, cool lakes and rivers, and incredible views, families come from all over the country to plant their roots here. Once they’ve chosen the perfect spot, many turn to G. Morris Custom Homes to make their dreams of living in luxurious, Texas style come true.

G. Morris owner Brad Morris is a Texan through and through. He graduated from Texas A&M University and served in the U. S. Marine Corps, where he learned values and leadership that form the core of the company. Along with his wife Andrea and son (after whom the company is named), Morris strives to give each client the best experience possible and build them the best home they can imagine.

It’s with that goal in mind that Morris gives them the highest level of attention and invites them to be integral to the entire home building process — from design to construction to decor and landscaping. This partnership empowers clients to create a house that is beautiful and that feels like their home too.

Brad and Andrea designed their home to fit their family’s style and showcase what they can do for others. They completed their “Spanish Transitional” property in the spring. Among the distinctive features are traditional colors found in the stained wood paired with unfinished beams and light stone throughout the house. White oak flooring with tile inlays, arches and a vaulted entry are prominent elements evoking a classic Mediterranean aesthetic.

partnership between the builder and client empowers families to create a house that is beautiful and welcomes them home.”

Through the living room and into the kitchen, you immediately take in the expansive island with the waterfall edge and hammered stainless steel sink. The custom cabinetry is stained white oak, and the range and oven are beautifully integrated into the wood. That includes the built-in 36-inch column refrigerator and freezer.

ROW 1

LEFT: Dual vanities guide you to relaxation in the freestanding bathtub.

RIGHT: Her closet feels like you’ve entered a museum to personal fashion.

ROW 2

LEFT: Groin-vaulted ceilings, chandeliers and inlaid-tile floors welcome you into the home.

RIGHT: The richly-appointed study has custom shelving and a built-in safe.

ROW 3

LEFT: Appliances are situated seamlessly into the kitchen’s stained wood cabinetry.

RIGHT: There’s plenty of space to play or cheer on your favorite team in the game room.

ROW 4

LEFT: It’s outdoor living at its finest on the patio, complete with a fireplace and outdoor kitchen.

RIGHT: Bask in the sun or relax in the water at the gorgeous pool with a spectacular view.

Entering the primary suite feels like being welcomed to a luxurious resort with doors that open to a private patio. A fireplace adds color and warmth, along with exquisite custom wallpaper. The bathroom features opposing vanities that seem to escort you to the freestanding bathtub next to the automated double shower. And the his-and-hers closets let you get ready for the day in luxurious style.

A highlight that you purposely don’t see in the primary suite and living room is the speaker system. There are hidden speakers built into the ceiling and walls. These are integrated into a unified audio, lighting, climate control, and security system that can be controlled remotely via a smart device or at panels strategically placed throughout the house.

What chic home would be complete without a game room with an under-lit bar? Two bedrooms occupy the top floor, but the beautiful bathrooms and view from the balcony make them feel like anything but secondary. The study is appointed with custom shelving and a built-in safe. And the guest suite? It comes equipped with a refrigerator, microwave, and coffee maker so you’d likely never leave.

Finally, the patio and pool complete the resort feel. Two gathering spaces and a kitchen make the outdoor space perfect for relaxing or entertaining. Automated sunshades provide relief from the heat, but the pool does an even better job. If you can resist the call of the putting green, the pool’s tanning ledge and the infinity edge will keep you in the cool, crisp water for hours.

Welcome home to the peak of Hill Country luxury style with G. Morris Custom Homes.

Photography Lauren Keller, Luxury Real Estate Services lresmarketing.com

Interior Design Twin Sisters Interiors twinsistersinteriors.com

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A TASTE OF TRADITION

The best of Mexican and American cuisine has a new home in Leon Springs. Mae Dunne takes us on a captivating journey with diverse ingredients and cultural influences from Saltillo, Mexico, and brings them right into our backyard.

Exploring the Delights of American-Mexican Flavors

"Mae Dunne is the name of my wife's great-great-grandmother," stated owner Santiago Carrera, who is married to Sofia Lopez. The original Mae Dunne was an American woman living in Mexico, who was captivated by both cultures and integrated them into her daily lifestyle. "Her life inspired us to enjoy the little things in life, such as long conversations at the table with loved ones and taking a walk-in nature at dusk."

Warm colors and refined, rustic decor greet you at the door. Your brunch or lunch culinary adventure begins with complimentary

pecan bread that did not disappoint. Incredible appetizers like the Burrata salad, zucchini chips, vegetable caldito, or the Yellowfin tuna tiradito are menu highlights. If you visit at breakfast or brunch, favorites include chilaquiles, Mae’s Famous Hash, avocado toast, Turkish eggs, short rib tacos, machacado, and other assorted American breakfast dishes. There’s even a solid kid’s menu to keep the little ones happy.

A standout offering on the lunch menu is their milanesa — a Mexican-style fried chicken breast that’s as delicious as it sounds. Short ribs and a beautiful mustard-marinated grilled chicken all served with rice and your choice of parmesan truffle fries or breakfast potatoes are also on offer.

After a mimosa, Carrera offered their signature drink — the “Carajillo.” It's a classic Mexican cocktail made with coffee and Licor 43 that’s definitely having a moment right now. Carrera said, "It’s a drink to have any time of the day — breakfast, lunch, or after dinner, or before a night on the town!”

Mae Dunne is more than just a restaurant. You can also find a collection of home goods on display throughout the restaurant and available for sale. A private, glass-walled dining room with a large family-style table fills a partitioned-off room that’s perfect for small parties or events. Comfy sofas and chairs around a coffee table provide a relaxed spot near the restaurant’s entrance. The owners want everyone to feel at home.

Leaving Mae Dunne, you realize this is an elevated breakfast, brunch, and lunch spot, that promises to delight and satisfy. Prepare to immerse yourself where culinary styles intertwine and flavors collide, leaving you with that unmistakable — and unforgettable — taste of tradition.

HOURS: TUESDAY – FRIDAY: 8AM - 2PM, SATURDAY –

SUNDAY: 8AM - 3PM

LOCATION: 23702 I-10, SUITE 108, SAN ANTONIO, TX 78257

WEBSITE: MAEDUNNE.COM

STYLE WITH A PURPOSE

Boerne Shops Team Up For a Fashion Show For a Cause

The Boerne community is known for hosting fabulous events and being extremely generous. A gorgeous example: the Boerne Retailers’ Style Show & Shopping Event. This annual parade-of-style enables community members to support a wonderful cause while enjoying an exciting evening of fashion, food and fun!

“It’s not just about business, we want to make a big impact. We believe in community over competition. And that’s what I love about the Boerne community!” says Ashley Ermis, the event’s director. Each September, the Boerne Retailer’s Association puts on a full-fledged fashion show highlighting many of the unique boutiques we have in downtown Boerne. Nontraditional shops like The Christmas Store participate too, and all the proceeds are donated to the Kendall County Women’s Shelter.

It all began when Ermis had an idea back in 2018. Ermis, who also manages Joli Boutique, saw a similar show in San Antonio and proposed that the Boerne Retailer’s Association bring a similar event up I-10. The trade group saw the ingenuity and decided to make it happen. Even though Ermis was the youngest member of the association at the time, she was made the leader of the project. Ermis credits her mom for teaching her how to be active and volunteer in the community — and even how to ask for donations. When asked about her favorite part of the event, Ashley said, “I love being able to make an impact on my community through philanthropy.”

Unlike traditional fashion shows, models on these runways are chosen by each boutique from their clients, staff and friends, so all sizes and shapes are represented. Seeing friends and community members on the runway adds an extra element of fun. Each boutique chooses the songs their models walk to as well so their unique vibe and personality can shine. The organizers want to show everyone can shop in Boerne and feel beautiful!

The Bevy Hotel hosts the event and graciously donates their ballroom each year transforming the venue into a full runway fashion show with small pop-up shops all around. Sponsoring retailers in the show include floral shops, art galleries, and the thrift store, Fabulous Finds, which benefits the Kendall County Women’s Shelter year-round. Attendees can immediately indulge in purchasing the beautiful items they have just seen on the runway, or they can try their luck in a silent auction of donated items and the raffle drawing.

Ermis is thankful she has a large group of board members, volunteers, and sponsors to help her make the Style Show amazing every year. Amy Bierstadt, owner of Handmade on Main, Lauren Watson, owner of Under the Fig Tree, and Catherine Stuart are all instrumental in planning and organizing things like refreshments, decor, donations for swag bags, volunteers and sponsors.

Sponsors in the past have included Valero and Cavender Cares, among others, and are especially instrumental in making this event happen.

In the first year of the show, the Style Show raised $8,000, and each year that number has gone up. Even in 2020 when the pandemic forced the show’s cancellation and donations were collected, the support for the Women’s Shelter grew. Last year, over $20,000 was raised, and expectations for 2023 are even higher!

Tickets are on sale now. General admission includes a swag bag and refreshments. VIP single and table for four include early private shopping time and a “Bougie Bag” in addition to the general swag bag and refreshments.

The Boerne Retailers’ Style Show & Shopping Event is on September 16. Go to boerneretailersstyleandshop.com for details and to get your tickets today. We’ll see you there!

“IT’S NOT JUST ABOUT BUSINESS, WE WANT TO MAKE A BIG IMPACT. WE BELIEVE IN COMMUNITY OVER COMPETITION. AND THAT’S WHAT I LOVE ABOUT THE BOERNE COMMUNITY! THEY SHOW UP.”

Mobilizing Love

How an International Supermodel Pursued Love and Found Home In Boerne

The first thing you notice when you meet Alison Canavan is the feeling you're catching up with an old friend. Alison invites you into her world with an Irish lilt and infectious energy. From Paris to London, New York to Sydney, that world used to be the glamorous life of a supermodel living in some of the world's great cities. So how did she land here in Boerne, of all places?

Starting at the age of 15, Canavan began her life of high fashion. For twenty years, she graced the covers of hundreds of magazines as an international supermodel. In 2005, she moved to Calcutta, where she began working in mental health, addiction, and children's charities. This began a journey that would eventually lead her away from the fashion industry. Her influence as a speaker grew as she chaired the

inaugural conference on parental mental health in Ireland in 2014. Two years later, she authored her first book, Minding Mum: It's Time to Take Care of You. This led to live speaking events and workshops not only in Ireland but in the U.S. as well. But even then, she pursued change.

"I've lived in big cities my entire life," she explains. "And then myself and my son moved [to L.A.] at the end of 2019. We had three or

four months of bliss. I was working at Unplug Studios, teaching meditation. I was doing workshops, living the life I had dreamed of as far as work and service." There in Los Angeles, Canavan pursued the things she’s most passionate about: serving others in the areas of mindfulness and meditation. During that time, Canavan reorganized her life and devoted herself to honing her craft as a speaker and teacher. But she could not have anticipated how a global pandemic that would put an unexpected turn in her journey.

"After leaving Ireland and packing it all in, I was at a dinner party, and a friend of mine said they were thinking of selling off and moving to Texas, and I was like, 'Now why would you do that?'" Canavan still seems surprised to find herself in the Texas Hill Country. "If someone had said to me five years ago, 'A few years from now, you'll be living in a tiny town in Texas called Boerne on four acres with chickens and a dog, and you're gonna love it,' I would have said, 'you are absolutely off your rocker,'" she muses with a chuckle.

"When I listen to the Universe, it's very interesting when I just say I'm looking for a bit of guidance," she says of her landing at the San Antonio airport. "We arrived into Boerne, and we were starving, and we saw Dienger's [Trading Co.]. Raymond [Lunsford], who owns Dienger's, came up to me, and we were talking when my son came up to me and said, 'Mom, I have to buy you something! I have to buy you something!"

As she continues to recount the story, she reveals the "God-wink" she received to let her know she was home: "So I went in, and the next minute James comes in with this beautiful bag. And I open it, and I take out this mug; it's a white porcelain mug with a gold wishbone handle and I started crying." Canavan is certain her friends wondered why she was crying over what seemed to be such a sweet, albeit random, gesture from her son.

"My grandmother, who had died a couple of years before, used to have a very special way of making each and every one of her grandchildren feel very special, and there were a lot of them," she explains. "On a Saturday she used to make roast chicken, and she used to keep the wishbone for me. James did not know this story. So when I got the mug, I felt like it was a message from my grandmother… That pretty much was the moment where I thought, ‘This is where we are going to live.’"

As a single mother, Boerne has proven to be an ideal base for Canavan and her son as she continues her work, helping people

CONTINUED >

"We have given fear so much power. If we mobilize love like we mobilize fear, the world would heal overnight. I firmly believe that."

work through the mental health challenges so many face. "Our perceptions of the world are very different, how we think, what we've been through. I used to struggle with horrific depression and anxiety from a young age. I was heavily medicated for it."

Eight years into her sobriety, she wants to pass on the principles that have changed her life and help people move toward what she calls a "radical awareness of self."

"Without awareness, we can't change anything. Through doing the work, our consciousness expands, our awareness expands, we get access to more and more of who we truly are. That is where true liberation and freedom lie."

Distilling her work down to one thought, she offers this challenge: "Healing doesn't happen in separation, whether it's separation in the world or separation within ourselves. The most important part for us to understand is the power of love."

With a smile, Canavan concludes, "We have given fear so much power. If we mobilize love like we mobilize fear, the world would heal overnight. I firmly believe that."

To learn more about Alison's corporate and oneon-one work, visit her website alisoncanavan.com Wardrobe provided by The Dienger Trading Co,  thediengertradingco.com/boutique .

FINDING TEXAS TREASURES

Tucked away behind a gas station off state highway 46, you will find the Texas Treasures art gallery, one of Boerne’s most aptly named hidden gems. Don’t let its location fool you. Upon walking inside this carefully curated space, you’ll quickly be enraptured by the beautiful pieces, bold colors, and stoic statues. There is something new to be discovered with each glance. And at the front desk, you’ll find John “Johny” Rosa, the owner and proud collector of some of the most profound pieces in all of the Texas Hill Country.

“Art should be a reflection of your life, both past and future. It is the stories of your life waiting to be told to people who don’t know you,” reflects Rosa. For 28 years, he has been working in the art industry to become the connoisseur he is today. 15 of those years have been in Boerne, where he has built a team that is committed to serving and giving back to the community in any art-related way. Not only does his gallery promote the work of artists all over the state, Rosa and his staff also do appraisals, custom framings, restorations, installs, and more.

Rosa says the key to decorating well with art lies in what the piece says about you. He shared a story about the time he was gifted an interesting piece when he moved to

Boerne from Sante Fe as an example. It was a one-of-a-kind sculpture made especially for Rosa that featured a large spider and a swarm of bees. “I hate spiders and bees. The artist was my friend so he knew that about me. But that was the beauty of the sculpture,” Rosa shares. The captivating piece still resides in Rosa's office at the gallery to serve as a reminder to face his fears, whether they appear in the form of an eight-legged beast or a daring business venture.

The best art is a conversation starter and also a mood changer, Rosa says. He strongly stands behind the science that color plays a large role in evoking feelings. Yellow inspires happiness, and soft blues lull you into a blissful state.

He also believes that your external experiences influence your home decoration style. For example, people who work in a center office with no windows will benefit from coming home to a bright, colorfully decorated home. Alternatively, someone with an adventurous life may enjoy coming home to muted, earth tones that help them unwind from a hectic day.

All that said, art is what you make of it. As families grow and change, so do their homes. What once was a child’s bedroom is now a home gym or office. Where a giant painting

of the Toy Story revolver once hung, there is now an empty space waiting to be filled. There are many options to consider when decorating a space as well. Not everyone can afford to hang a $5,000 painting in their guest bedroom only to be viewed twice a year. Sometimes all you need is a print of your favorite painting instead of the original canvas. Fortunately, you can find over 68,000 prints on the Texas Treasures website.

As Boerne has grown, so has The Texas Treasures team. People move here for a slice of Hill Country paradise and bring their own unique styles with them. Historically, this region of Texas largely preferred Western-style art featuring horses, Native American culture, and other aspects of frontier life. But more recently, Rosa has noticed more contemporary influences growing in popularity. He made sure to note that, “Through it all, Texas Hill Country landscapes remain quintessential.”

With all that in mind, it is a fact of life that families are diverse. A husband may enjoy contemporary pieces while a wife leans more toward the Western style. Luckily, Rosa has seen it all before and offers a range of solutions. The gallery staff can superimpose an image of the art that you want into a picture of the room in your home where you wish for it to hang. You can also take the piece on approval to make sure it matches the look that you’re going for before committing to the purchase.

Art holds value in many ways, whether it’s monetary worth or priceless memories. Separating with a treasured piece can be difficult and Johny has seen this firsthand after working with generations of families which is why his gallery offers estate planning services. Lastly, Johny wants his clients to know that no budget is too big or too small.

When you’re searching for art to make your house feel like home, you can find gold at Texas Treasures.

MEET HEY LOVE

A Favorite Downtown Boutique Gets Fresh Looks a New Name

Dang Sassy Boutique has become a must-see in downtown Boerne for the hottest styles in women’s fashion. So we asked co-owners Tristin Durham and Tina Trulove to share their process, what trends to keep an eye on, and how the shop has a new name with styles that are fresher than ever!

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO OPEN DANG SASSY?

What originally started as a fun idea between friends turned into an exciting new adventure with the opportunity to purchase Dang Sassy last Summer. We loved the idea of creating a gathering space for girls of any age to meet, connect, and enjoy shopping together on Main Street. We bought Dang Sassy Boutique and hit the ground running, and we are really excited to announce our official name change to "Hey Love”!

WHERE DO YOU GET YOUR STYLE INSPIRATION?

We are really inspired by all things color and the mix of patterns and texture in fabric. We like to keep an eye on new style trends, but mainly are drawn to a colorful palette that is classic but makes you feel happy when you wear it.

"We have a rule that if it's just "ok", it's a "no"... we want to really love everything in our store."

WHAT IS YOUR BUYING PROCESS LIKE?

Initially, we tried to fill the store with brands that we personally loved and had a history with. We wanted to carry clothing lines that we 100% trusted to be high quality. From there, we expanded to so many new brands that we found and fell in love with at Market. We’ve been to Market in Dallas five times this year and will venture out to new Markets in other states. We constantly research new brands and look for something that nobody else has.

HOW DO YOU DECIDE WHAT ITEMS TO CARRY?

If we both love something, we buy it. We have a rule that if it’s just “ok”, it’s a “no”... we want to really love everything in our store. We also talk to our customers a lot and get their feedback on brands they enjoy wearing or want to see in the store. We like to keep the process interactive with our customer base.

WHAT TRENDS DO YOU SEE COMING?

We try to keep things really colorful and uplifting in the store, but we’ve noticed a fall trend of browns, black, and cream or gray. Trousers and three-button vests for women are popular, and lots of exaggerated texture pieces. The Game Day market continues to grow like crazy and is one of our favorite trends for sure. Also, we’re happy the fun sneaker trend will continue too, because we all LOVE it!

THE little BLACK DRESS

Most of us can say we have that one staple black dress that can be worn at any occasion, and the classic look is not only popular but is elegant and timeless. It is the dress in our closet that can be accessorized to fit the event and often is the dress we go back to time and again. It is one of the most versatile items we own, never goes out of style and looks good on anyone. But how did this classic look originate?

Prior to the 1920’s, black was reserved for funeral wear, but when Coco Channel made the bold move to print a short, black dress on the cover of Vogue in 1926, all of that changed. The popularity of the black dress skyrocketed, and it became one of the most influential pieces of clothing. Chanel transported fashion from tight corsets and bustles to straightlined silhouettes. Because of its affordability, black remained a popular choice during The Great Depression. The black dress had another boom in popularity when “Breakfast at Tiffany’s’’ debuted, and Audrey Hepburn showcased her iconic black dress with long, black gloves. Today, people accessorize the black dress to fit any occasion.

We enlisted the help of stylist, Amani Skalacki, to show us how versatile the little black dress can be.

THE POPULARITY OF THE BLACK DRESS SKYROCKETED and IT BECAME ONE

OF THE MOST influential PIECES OF CLOTHING.

“We usually think of the little black dress as a piece you wear to an event. However, because black is so flattering on all body types and skin tones, women have multiple black dresses from casual to evening,” Amani says. “I selected this collection of dresses to show the versatility of the black dress and to give women some new ideas of how to wear the evening gown with a train on a night out with her girlfriends or the traditional summer strappy maxi dress while running errands in cooler temperatures.”

Although black is a timeless, classic look, that doesn’t mean it goes without personality. You can make it your own style by accessorizing to infuse new life into a dress that you already own.

“A sequin dress can be dressed up with heels, or that same dress can be transformed into a casual outfit with the addition of tennis shoes and an oversized blazer or a denim jacket. Transform that strappy dress you have been wearing all summer into an outfit that is perfect for chilly fall temperatures. Add a narrow scarf, a leather jacket and sandals or a tall pointy boot, and you have a whole new look for an evening out,” Amani adds.

If you have a dress in the back of your closet that you haven’t worn in years, don’t be afraid to dust it off and give it new life. “Take that evening gown you wore years ago to a tailor for a little transformation. Turn it into a high low dress-top that can be worn out with girlfriends or on a date night. Pair the top with leather leggings, ankle boots, a chunky belt and some statement jewelry, and now you have a piece that pushes the boundaries of the little black dress.”

Are you looking for the best cut or style of dress that works best for your body type? Amani provided this simple guide:

HOURGLASS FIGURE:

• V-necklines

• Cinched-in waistlines

• Tailored/fitted dresses

PEAR OR TRIANGLE

FIGURE:

• Tailored dresses

• Off the shoulder

ATHLETIC FIGURE:

• Embellished

• Ruffles

• Empire waist

• Volume is your friend

APPLE FIGURE:

• Drop waist

• A-line

The dress that all body types can’t go wrong with is a wrap dress of any length.

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A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

SEPTEMBER 1ST

Kendall County Fair

KENDALL COUNTY

FAIRGROUNDS, 1307 RIVER

RD. | 5:00 PM

It's a tradition over 100 years in the making! Pull on your boots for the 177th Kendall County Fair. Spend Labor Day weekend with a rodeo, livestock show, live music and more. You can also find some of the best fair food and hand-crafted wares around. And don't you dare miss the Sunday parade! Get tickets there or at kcfa.org .

SEPTEMBER 2ND

THE ROUNDUP, 531 FM 3351 N | 6:00 PM

She may be the daughter of a country music legend, but Pam Tillis has made a name for herself. Her tunes span the genres, from country to R&B to bluegrass to rock. This Grammy winner and Grand Ole Opry member will take over The Roundup and have you singing and dancing along in no time! Get your tickets at therounduptx.com/events!

SEPTEMBER 16TH

Boerne Retailers' Style Show & Shopping Event

THE BEVY HOTEL, 101 HERFF RD. | 6:00 PM

It's fashion for a cause! The Boerne Retailers & Restaurant Owners Association is proud to light up the runway for their annual Style Show & Shopping Event. Local boutiques strut their stuff to raise support for the Kendall County Women's Shelter. See the latest trends and support our community! For tickets and more info, visit boerneretailersstyleandshop.com

SEPTEMBER 19TH

Journey of the Heart

THE CANA BALLROOM, 202 W

KRONKOSKY ST. | 6:00 PM

Parents-to-be need all the support they can get, and you can join The Hill Country Pregnancy Care Center in providing compassionate care at their annual Journey of the Heart Gala. Through pregnancy care and education initiatives, HCPCC is committed to making our community a more loving home for everyone. Visit hcpccgala.org for details.

SEPTEMBER 23RD BierFest

THE AGRICULTURAL MUSEUM & ARTS CENTER, 102 CITY PARK RD. | 12:00 PM

Get your stein and try some of the best beers in Texas at the 6th annual BierFest! 25+ breweries come together for this party for the local arts. There will be a craft brewing contest, a stein-holding competition, and a keg toss. And you don't want to miss Texas Country superstar Gary P. Nunn. Get tickets at  hccarts.org/bierfest . Prost!

SEPTEMBER 25TH

Outdrive Hunger Charity Golf Tournament

CORDILLERA RANCH GOLF

CLUB, 1092 CLUBS DR. | 8:00 AM

Tee off with Hill Country Family Services for their 8th annual Outdrive Hunger Charity Golf Tournament at the beautiful Cordillera Ranch Golf Club. The day includes a gourmet breakfast, lunch, and drinks during your round. With prizes for the top three teams, a raffle, and a fancy swag bag, you're a winner just for supporting families! Visit hcfstx. org/golf for more.

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Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Boerne

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Three UltraUnique Getaways for Families

A TRIO OF FUN-FILLED ESCAPES THAT WILL LEAVE YOUR FAMILY BEGGING FOR MORE

Introducing Vermejo...

“At the end of the day, your feet should be dirty, your hair messy and your eyes sparkling.”

Bienvenidos to Raton, New Mexico, home to Vermejo Ted Turner Reserves. Flaunting over 550,000 acres of picturesque terrain, Vermejo will welcome your family to a crown jewel of natural beauty.

This destination invites you to custom plan a swoon-worthy experience; choose between kid-friendly fishing expeditions, hiking tours, horseback rides, archery, and more. Indulge in your choice of luxe accommodations and take your taste pallet on a culinary adventure thanks to delectable dining options.

Notably, the property values conservation efforts including the protection of wildlife like bison and wolves.

Rates inclusive of meals and two daily activities.

Introducing Glenwood Springs...

“The greatest legacy we can leave our children is happy memories.”

Happy memories await in Glenwood Springs, Colorado. Known for its hot springs, the Rocky Mountain resort city is rich with wildlife and sheer beauty. Offering an array of family-friendly activities, the area is home to the esteemed Glenwood Springs Adventure Park, a must-do with amusement rides and subterranean caverns—a magical geological excursion.

Surely, you’ll want to take a dip in the world’s largest mineral hot springs pool. Invigorating and rejuvenating for adults and super fun for kids, there’s a vast splash zone, water slide, diving board, and lap lanes.

Glenwood Springs is primed with pristine river spots; the white water is mild and ideal for guided rafting adventures. You can also rent duckies (inflatable kayaks) or paddleboards.

If you’re going to check one hike off your list, opt for the Doc Holliday memorial, and for older kids, explore mountain biking paths for every skill on the paved Rio Grande Trail. In addition, Bair Ranch, located in Glenwood Canyon, offers several activities like horseback riding, ATV & Jeep tours, and sport clay shooting.

Family accommodations include Hotel Glenwood Springs, located at the Glenwood Gondola base that goes to Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park. The property also flaunts a small indoor water facility. For included admission to the hot springs pool, families can also book the Glenwood Hot Springs Lodge. The exciting city has over 80 restaurant choices as well.

Introducing Snow Mountain Ranch...

“Never underestimate the importance of having fun.”

Consider Snow Mountain Ranch a fun hub for families; a camp-like atmosphere for those seeking a genuine back-tothe-basics escape. Located in Grand Country Colorado, the YMCA of the Rockies destination is what vacation is meant to be... packed with frivolous play. Awake to breathtaking mountain views and the sound of songbirds, and after an actionpacked day, witness a dreamy sunset from your personal porch.

Accommodations vary; choose between private cabins, spacious lodge rooms, scenic campgrounds, or yurts. Cabins can sleep up to 12, and are equipped with full kitchens, a fireplace, and a deck. You’ll likely spot some deer outside your front door.

Included in all stays: roller skating, swimming, mini-golf, sports, hiking/biking trails, nature walks, and more. But

what makes Snow Mountain extra special are the entertaining “extras.” To make the most out of your stay, partake in archery, axe throwing, horseback riding, arts/crafting, knot-tying, geocaching, and beyond. Plus, there are tons of educational programs that teach guests about local wildlife like bears and wolves. And here’s a tip; if you’re craving some adult-only time, choose to register your child (ages 3+) for summer day camp. Grown-ups can do some adventuring of their own while the kids get a taste of what summer’s supposed to be. And as for food, there’s an array of on-site dining options available.

Everyone will feel like a kid at Snow Mountain Ranch, and the secret’s out; cabins book far in advance, so be sure to secure your spot well ahead of time.