Love Thy Neighbor
February invites us to slow down just enough to notice what and who truly fills our hearts. While Valentine’s Day often centers on romantic gestures, I have always believed that real love is much bigger than one day or one relationship. It is found in the places we call home, the people we surround ourselves with, and the moments of laughter that remind us why we chose this community in the first place.
Loving where you live is not just about beautiful homes, favorite restaurants, or familiar streets. It is about connection. It is waving to neighbors, supporting local businesses, cheering on our kids at games, and showing up for one another when it matters most. It is the quiet kindnesses and unexpected smiles that turn a city into a true community.
At the heart of my own life is my husband, Gary, my forever Valentine, my steady presence, and my biggest supporter. Together, we are raising three incredible humans, Ash, Averly, and Jaxx, who remind me daily that love is loud, messy, joyful, and always worth it. They have taught me that laughter is often the most powerful form of connection and that the smallest acts of kindness can leave the biggest impressions.
This month, I encourage you to look for ways to spread love beyond your inner circle. Pay for the coffee behind you, write a note to a teacher or first responder, support a local nonprofit, or simply take a moment to truly listen to someone who needs it. Random acts of kindness ripple far beyond what we can see, strengthening our community in ways that last long after February ends.
In this Local Love issue, we are celebrating the people, places, and passions that make our city extraordinary. Thank you for choosing to live, love, and invest right here, and for helping make our community one filled with warmth, generosity, and joy.
February 2026
PUBLISHER
Angi Burns | angi.burns@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Valerie Merrick | valerie.merrick@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Deborah Dove | debie.dove@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Kathy Moreno | kathy.moreno@citylifestyle.com
STAFF WRITERS
Deborah Dove, Valerie Merrick
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Chris Bigenho Photography
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Hang Le
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Lea Grimaldi, Anna Barnes, Bailey Hall
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Anna Barnes
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich
LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
3:5-6
city scene
1 - 7: Spotlight on Flower Mound Women in Business; women entrepreneurs making an impact in our community by connecting and empowering women. Christi Beca, Founder, is on a mission to give back with her Flower Mound Women in Business nonprofit group. For 10 years, FMWIB has created a safe space for women to succeed. Join these powerful women for “Coffee Talk” on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month and monthly “Cocktail Talk” events. Visit FMWIB.com to learn more.
business monthly
Let’s Get Physical with BODYBAR Pilates!
Cheers to BODYBAR Pilates Lewisville on the exciting milestone of their grand opening and Chamber ribbon cutting. Located at 3964 State Hwy 121, Suite 600, Lewisville, TX 75056, BODYBAR Pilates Lewisville is bringing a modern, results-driven approach to fitness to the community. As the go-to destination for expert-led Pilates classes that build strength, improve mobility, and enhance overall wellness, this new studio offers a welcoming space for all fitness levels.
Congratulations to iCryo, Highland Village
iCRYO is now open in Highland Village! Located at 1601 Village Pkwy, Suite 130, Highland Village, TX 75077, iCRYO is bringing cutting-edge wellness and recovery services to the community. As the go-to destination for personalized cryotherapy and recovery treatments designed to fit seamlessly into a busy lifestyle, iCRYO offers innovative solutions that help individuals feel better, recover faster, and perform at their best.
Max Strength Fitness Now Open in Flower Mound
Congratulations to Max Strength Fitness on their grand opening in Flower Mound, Texas! Located at 4951 Long Prairie Rd #120, Flower Mound, TX 75028, Max Strength Fitness is redefining the local fitness scene as the go-to destination for individualized personal training in just 20 minutes per session, with a science-backed approach and customized workouts designed for maximum results in minimal time.
Photography by Lewisville Area Chamber of Commerce
Photography by Flower Mound Chamber of Commerce
Photography by Flower Mound Chamber of Commerce
ARTICLE BY DEBORAH DOVE
Local Experience
DISCOVER LOCAL GEMS, CREATE MEMORIES, AND EMBRACE AUTHENTIC COMMUNITY EXPERIENCES.
This Valentine’s Day—or any day—celebrate love right in your own neighborhood by discovering the best local date night spots. From elegant restaurants perfect for romantic dinners to playful painting studios and unique experiences, our city offers endless ways to make memories. Support local businesses and show them some love while creating unforgettable moments with that special someone— because love, like community, is sweetest when it’s close to home.
Tycoon Bar | 811 International Parkway, Flower Mound, TX | Located in Lakeside Village, Tycoon Bar offers a luxurious speakeasy vibe for an unforgettable date night. Sip a craft cocktail in the unique Glow Bar before or after enjoying an upscale dining experience.
Painting with a Twist | 5810 Long Prairie Road, Ste 600, Flower Mound, TX | Channel your inner Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera and create a masterpiece together. Look for couples classes, bring a bottle of wine, and paint the night away.
Irving Gondola Adventures | 357 West Fork, Irving, TX
| What could be more romantic than a private gondola cruise on the Mandalay Canal and Lake Carolyn in Las Colinas? The Love Lock Cruise includes a non-alcoholic beverage, scattered rose petals, a half dozen roses, and chocolates to nibble on.
Sip + Savor | 1201 Shoal Creek, Highland Village, TX | Wine and dine your sweetheart with an intimate dinner experience with curated wine pairings.
Red Phone Booth | 5774 Grandscape Blvd, Ste 100, The Colony, TX | Step into Red Phone Booth, a glamorous 1920s candle-lit speakeasy and craft-cocktail lounge, where jazz and romance fill the air.
NONPROFIT OF THE MONTH
HEART OF THE CITY LEWISVILLE LIVES OUT COMPASSION
In our local community, a purposeful nonprofit is redefining what it means to care for one’s community. Heart of the City Lewisville stands on a simple but transformative belief that love requires action. Rooted in service, integrity, and local impact, this organization continues to strengthen neighborhoods by meeting real needs with dignity, excellence, and compassion.
ARTICLE BY VALERIE MERRICK PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF HEART OF THE CITY LEWISVILLE
The vision for Heart of the City Lewisville began in 2009, when founder Pastor Robert Veal felt convicted to live out love in a more intentional way. For him, love could not remain an idea or sentiment but rather required
showing up, serving consistently, and caring deeply for neighbors. While early efforts took shape within the church he served, the mission continued to grow. In 2019, everything aligned for Heart of the City Lewisville to launch as its own independent nonprofit, fully focused on serving the community at large.
At its core, the mission is straightforward: to love others, to serve others, and to help others. This clarity drives every initiative and program, ensuring that compassion is not only spoken about but actively lived out.
In the words of CEO Nicole Felder, “When neighbors are struggling, we believe faith calls us to meet them where they are. We show up with dignity, compassion, and practical support. Through our service programs, we create opportunities to walk alongside our neighbors. Faith isn’t meant to stay within walls. Therefore, we spread it.”
The love has been spread to more than 23,000 families in the area, each one impacted by the various programs offered through the organization.
Heart of the City Lewisville’s vision extends beyond immediate assistance. It is built on the belief that local people, using local resources, can help local families thrive. By strengthening individuals and households, the organization creates healthier neighborhoods and a stronger community overall. This model of care is designed to be both impactful and replicable, offering a blueprint for communities across the nation to follow.
Currently, Heart of the City Lewisville serves South Denton County through several essential programs. Its Farmers Market Food Pantry provides free groceries in partnership with the North Texas Food Bank. Through GRAHAMS Totally Free Clothes, the organization collects and distributes free clothing to neighbors seeking confidence and comfort in
their everyday lives. These two programs make an incredible impact. In 2024, over 80,000 items of clothing and shoes were given, and more than one million pounds of food were shared with neighbors in need.
Additional programs, such as the THRIVE Life and Skills Coaching program and THRIVE Academy help to provide wise counsel and encouragement during life’s most challenging moments. The coaching program offers free, one-on-one support in areas such as finances, parenting, marriage, spiritual matters, and personal growth. The THRIVE Academy serves as an interdisciplinary resource for education, career development, financial management, and personal growth through classes, groups, online courses, and individualized guidance.
Guided by its core values of compassion, community, integrity, excellence, and stewardship, Heart of the City Lewisville offers hope to struggling families and a meaningful opportunity for residents of Lewisville and Flower Mound to invest in the well-being of their community. As a registered Texas 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the organization invites neighbors to donate, volunteer, and join the mission at www.heartofthecitylewisville.com.
Love Where You Live
CHATEAU
REALTY HELPS
FIND THEIR FOOTING
TEXAS RESIDENTS
ARTICLE BY COURTESY OF CHATEAU REALTY PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF CHATEAU REALTY
Image Courtesy of True Home Photography
In Texas, “loving where you live” means different things to different people. For some, it’s a family home close to good schools. For others, it’s a ranch with room to breathe, a luxury estate overlooking the lake, or a commercial space where a dream business can grow. Flower Mound and its residents have all of the above at their fingertips, and Chateau Realty has built its reputation on understanding and guiding them toward places that truly feel like home.
Since the mid-1990s, Chateau Realty owner and broker Vanessa Van Trease has honed her real estate expertise in Flower Mound and Dallas-Fort Worth at large. In her experience, she’s discovered that folks love living in Flower Mound for a variety of reasons, but the largest draw is the area’s versatility. Here, sun-soaked days on Lake Grapevine are just as accessible as a night out on the town in Dallas. With Flower Mound as a home base, homeowners don’t have to sacrifice desirables like excellent school districts for sought-after amenities.
In addition to convenience, Flower Mound offers a unique access to nature. Characterized by the post oaks of the Cross Timbers ecological region, it offers a small town feel while simultaneously having one of the most dynamic real estate markets in the country. Luxury estates tucked within these tree lines have often characterized Chateau Realty’s inventory.
The boutique brokerage is powered by a close-knit team of eight agents. Each agent brings local knowledge, professionalism, and a shared belief that real estate should feel personal. In addition to her knowledge as a longtime Flower Mound resident, Vanessa’s early professional background in marketing informs the team’s strategic approach. It’s one of the reasons why the brokerage excels at positioning homes effectively—by understanding seller motivations and telling the story of a property, not just listing it.
“When someone works with us at Chateau Realty, I want them to feel confident in our experience. Clients should feel like they are working with a trusted advisor—someone who listens, guides, and advocates every step of the way,” said Vanessa.
While the team calls Flower Mound home, Chateau Realty continues to handle an impressive range of properties across DFW: ranches, large estates, firsttime family homes, and commercial real estate. This versatility allows the firm to serve a wide spectrum of clients, from young couples buying their first home to seasoned investors expanding their portfolios.
In recent years, Chateau Realty has also become a major presence in Flower Mound’s Lakeside neighborhood, closing more than $50 million in transactions there alone since 2020.
In Lakeside, Vanessa joined her husband, Corey Van Trease, in building and selling luxury Villas, just in time for the 80 year anniversary of his family company, Van Trease Development. With the addition of their daughter, Isabella, as a realtor, the family continues a legacy of real estate expertise from all sides.
As the legacy expands, so does Chateau Realty’s reach. The brokerage is thrilled to announce that in 2026 it plans to open an Austin office, bringing their proven market prowess to the Hill Country.
In a fast-moving and ever growing industry, Chateau Realty remains grounded in what matters most: family, integrity, and helping people find a place they truly love to live. In Flower Mound and beyond, that commitment is what turns houses into homes, and client relationships into something lifelong.
Connect with the team at www.chateaurealty.net.
“When someone works with us, I want them to feel confident in our experience. Clients should feel like they are working with a trusted advisor—someone who listens, guides, and advocates every step of the way.”
“With Flower Mound as a home base, homeowners don’t have to sacrifice desirables like excellent school
districts for sought-after amenities.”
Seeing is Believing
Nestled along the shores of Lake Grapevine, Lakeside Village blends nature, dining, shopping, and living into one vibrant destination. Stroll the trails and take in the waterfront views, discover a mix of boutique shops and local favorites, gather with friends at restaurants that turn meals into memories, or make your home here at one of our thoughtfully designed residences. everything awaits at our water’s edge
THE PERFECT PLACE TO SAY “I DO,” AGAIN
A Romantic Getaway Close to Home
Hotel Crescent Court
ARTICLE BY ANGI BURNS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTOPHER BIGENHO PHOTOGRAPHY
There is something irresistible about a romantic escape that does not require traveling far. Less than an hour from home, Uptown Dallas offered everything we wanted for our anniversary weekend: elegance, intimacy, and the feeling of being truly away. At the heart of it all was Hotel Crescent Court, a place that made celebrating our love effortless and unforgettable.
From the moment we arrived, the hotel wrapped us in a sense of calm luxury. The gracious lobby, attentive service, and timeless design immediately signaled that this weekend would be something special. Hotel Crescent Court has long been one of Dallas’s most iconic addresses, but experiencing it as a couple revealed how beautifully it functions as a romantic retreat, not just a place to stay.
I chose Hotel Crescent Court for our vow renewal because it offered the perfect balance of intimacy and grandeur. We wanted something meaningful and personal, yet polished and elevated. The courtyard provided a romantic, almost European backdrop for our ceremony, surrounded by classic architecture and lush greenery. It felt private and heartfelt while still offering the flexibility to host large, extravagant weddings and events in the hotel’s breathtaking ballrooms.
One of the greatest gifts of hosting our vow renewal here was that our family did not need to travel. Being close to home allowed our loved ones to share in our love story without the stress of flights or hotels. Our
children, ranging in age from 11 to 23, joined us for the day of the ceremony and had no shortage of nearby activities to enjoy. From exploring Uptown to walking Klyde Warren Park, shopping and dining just steps away, they were happily occupied, giving us the freedom to focus on each other and the meaning of the day.
Our weekend began with welcome cocktails at Beau Nash, the iconic lobby bar where expertly crafted drinks and an impressive whiskey selection make lingering feel natural. Dinner at The Crescent Club followed, perched high above the city with sweeping skyline views and an atmosphere that blended classic club elegance with modern energy. The dining experience at The Crescent Club was nothing short of decadent. From the first course to the last, every dish felt thoughtfully crafted and indulgent, matched only by the impeccable service. The servers were incredibly attentive, anticipating our needs and personalizing each detail, creating an elevated, seamless experience that made the evening feel truly special. It was the kind of evening that reminded us why slowing down together matters.
Saturday morning brought breakfast at The Conservatory, a sunfilled glass space overlooking serene gardens. The pace of the weekend felt intentional, unrushed, and indulgent. We took advantage of the hotel’s luxe house car to explore nearby favorites in the Arts District and beyond, a reminder of how vibrant and accessible Uptown truly is.
The afternoon was devoted to relaxation at The Spa at The Crescent, where a couples massage allowed us to fully disconnect and be present together. Between spa time, lounging poolside, and strolling through the Crescent complex, including a visit to Stanley Korshak, the day unfolded beautifully.
That evening, we returned to the courtyard to renew our vows. Surrounded by loved ones and every detail thoughtfully handled, the moment felt deeply personal and incredibly romantic. It was a celebration of our past, present, and future, set in a place that elevated every emotion.
As we wrapped up our stay with coffee from Ascension just across the street, I was reminded that love does not need distance to feel like an escape. For Valentine’s Day, an anniversary, or any time you need to feel loved, Hotel Crescent Court and Uptown Dallas offer a luxurious reminder that romance can be closer than you think.
Floral arrangements provided by Bunches in Rockwall. Order your own floral pieces at www.bunchesrockwall.com.
“It was a celebration of our past, present, and future, set in a place that elevated every emotion.”
Image Courtesy of Angi Burns
Image Courtesy of Angi Burns
MIRROR WORK FOR SELF-LOVE AND ACCEPTANCE
Mirror, Mirror, on the wall, who’s the fairest of them all? Everyone knows this line from Snow White. The Queen wanted to be the fairest. When she wasn’t, she poisoned beautiful Snow White. Most of us do not believe ourselves to be the fairest, but quite the opposite.
As February is widely known as the month of love, let’s focus on self-love. Often people, especially parents, tend to give a lot to their partners and their children and less to themselves. Sometimes it is challenging for us to silence the inner critic that speaks harshly to ourselves in a way we would never speak to a loved friend or family member. This is where mirror work can help.
Many people have a complicated relationship with the mirror. We don’t always like to look at our reflections. We may find it confronting. Taylor Swift even sings about it in her song Anti-hero: “I’ll stare directly at the sun but never in the mirror.” Why is it so difficult for some of us to gaze with love–or affection–into the mirror?
ARTICLE BY LEA GRIMALDI
Mirror work, a term coined by transformational teacher and selflove expert Louise Hay, founder of Hay House Publishing, and the author of You Can Heal Your Life and Mirror Work: 21 Days to Heal Your Life, is the practice of looking at yourself in the mirror and saying nice things to yourself. You can start with something simple. “I like myself. I am doing the best I can today.” Or even, “Hey sweetie! You look great!” One of my favorites is, “I love, accept, and forgive myself fully and completely.” Mirror work combines well with affirmations, which are positive phrases said in the present tense as if they are already true. The practice of saying affirmations combined with mirror work can increase the benefits of both practices.
The objective of mirror work is to help people silence their inner critic and believe the positive words they are telling themselves while looking at themselves in the mirror.
Mirror work can help with self-esteem issues and can achieve results such as changing a negative body image to a more positive one. Hay developed the practice to increase self-compassion and self-love as part of the daily activities detailed in her 1984 book You Can Heal Your Life
Although it can be confronting and challenging, it is important to practice mirror work regularly to reap the benefits. Set a daily goal of saying affirmations while looking at your reflection in the mirror and seeing how it makes you feel. Start with two minutes a day and work up to five.
As a yoga teacher, I have included mirror work in my classes with clients. Often the first experience with the exercise is somewhat uncomfortable, but with practice, it becomes more natural. When resistance comes up, ask yourself what you are feeling, allow the emotion to be present, and then release it. It may be rooted in a past experience and just needs to be acknowledged and felt before you can let it go.
HERE ARE SOME SIMPLE GUIDELINES FOR HOW TO CREATE A MIRROR WORK PRACTICE:
• Make sure you will be alone and uninterrupted so you can let your guard down and allow emotions to surface
• Try to do it for a set amount of time, such as five minutes every day
• Allow yourself to feel and process whatever emotions show up
• Keep a journal to record your feelings, reactions, and experiences
• Start with less confronting or difficult phrases, and as you become comfortable increase the intensity
Mirror work can be used in tandem with inner-child work because many of the negative limiting beliefs that play in our minds are the result of something we were told as a child that is not true about us or our life. If something negative comes up during mirror work, we can challenge it and write about the feelings in the journal, thus freeing us from that limiting belief.
Inner child work is an approach to recognizing and healing childhood trauma. We all experience traumas as children which affect the way we experience the world. As adults, we can reconnect with the child we once were, in order to heal. Mirror work is one way to help facilitate that process, in addition to talk therapy, meditation exercises, and setting healthy boundaries.
Here are some ideas for affirmations to use with your mirror work. I am strong. I am capable. I can do this. I believe in myself. I know my worth. I can do hard things. My life is abundant. I am happy and healthy in mind, body, and spirit. I believe in myself. I am kind and compassionate. I deserve love and abundance. I am doing my best. I am smart. I am brave. I am powerful.
In the words of Hay, “Doing mirror work is one of the most loving gifts you can give yourself.”
I AM STRONG. I AM CAPABLE. I CAN DO THIS. I BELIEVE IN MYSELF. I KNOW MY WORTH. I CAN DO HARD THINGS. MY LIFE IS ABUNDANT. I AM HAPPY AND HEALTHY IN MIND, BODY, AND SPIRIT. I BELIEVE IN MYSELF. I AM KIND AND COMPASSIONATE. I DESERVE LOVE AND ABUNDANCE. I AM DOING MY BEST. I AM SMART. I AM BRAVE. I AM POWERFUL. I AM STRONG.
Date Night
AT HOME
THREE CREATIVE IDEAS TO CELEBRATE LOVE
ARTICLE BY BAILEY HALL
Not every date night needs to involve reservations or an elaborate itinerary. With a little creativity, you can create magical moments right at home. Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day or just want to reconnect, here are three ideas for unforgettable at-home date nights.
ROMANTIC PICNIC UNDER THE STARS
Transform your backyard or balcony into a dreamy picnic spot! Spread out a cozy blanket, add a few fluffy pillows, and hang string lights or fairy lights for ambiance. A small fire pit or lanterns can also add a romantic glow.
Pack a picnic basket with finger foods and a bottle of wine or sparkling water. Don’t forget a decadent dessert like chocolate-dipped strawberries. Lay back and stargaze, identifying constellations or making wishes on shooting stars. To make it extra romantic, bring a bluetooth speaker and play soft music.
BREAKFAST IN BED
Start the day with love by turning breakfast into an indulgent experience. Prepare a tray with a DIY breakfast charcuterie board. Include mini pancakes, waffles, fresh fruit, yogurt, granola, bacon, and pastries. Add small bowls of toppings like syrup, Nutella, or whipped cream.
Mix up mimosas or serve coffee with flavored syrups and whipped cream for a café vibe. Then, snuggle up in bed and watch a favorite movie or TV series.
PAINT AND CREATE TOGETHER
Unleash your inner artists with one of these three fun and interactive dates. Grab some inexpensive canvases, brushes, and acrylic paints from the craft store. Don’t forget aprons or old clothes to protect against spills!
• Paint each other’s portraits for a mix of laughter and creativity.
• Work on a collaborative painting - each person adds their own touch to a single canvas.
• Try a themed painting challenge, like recreating your favorite memory together.
Pair this date with a cheese platter and wine and don’t worry about being “good’ at paintingit’s all about enjoying the process together.
FEBRUARY 2026
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
FEBRUARY 3RD - 6TH
“Absolutely Abstract” Art Exhibition
Lewisville Grand Theater: 100 N. Charles Lewisville, Texas 75057 | 10:00 AM
“Absolutely Abstract” invites viewers into a world where imagination takes the lead and reality steps aside. Featuring work by members of the Visual Art League of Lewisville, this exhibition celebrates the limitless possibilities of abstraction—where shape, color, texture, line, and form become the primary language of expression.
FEBRUARY 6TH
Taste of Flower Mound
Flower Mound Public Library: 3030 Broadmoor Ln., Flower Mound, TX 75022 | 6:00 PM
Enjoy small bites from the area’s top restaurants at the first-ever Taste of Flower Mound! Sample and savor while supporting the Friends of the Flower Mound Library. Want to participate as a restaurant or buy tickets? Visit www.flowermound.gov/taste for all the details.
FEBRUARY 6TH
A Night at the Local Symphony
Lewisville Grand Theater: 100 N Charles St., Lewisville, TX 75057 | 7:30 PM
You don't have to travel far to enjoy Mahler’s Symphony No. 4. This intimate chamber orchestra performance features premiere soprano Kara McBain. The warm, radiant setting offers a fresh perspective on a beloved masterpiece—highlighting every nuance, color, and emotion. For tickets and more information, visit www.lewisvillesymphony.org/ss3.
FEBRUARY 6TH - 22ND
Ordinary People at Lewisville Playhouse
Lewisville Playhouse: 160 W Main St Lewisville, TX 75057 | 8:00 PM
In the play directed by Kristal Seid, Conrad had an older brother and now he is gone. What's left of young Conrad's family, with his successful, well-intentioned father and his beautiful, organized, and remote mother, is in terrible jeopardy, as is Conrad himself. This play delves into themes of family dynamics, mental health, and the difficulty of communication in the face of immense loss. Tickets available at Lewisvilleplayhouse.org.
FEBRUARY 20TH
Daddy Daughter Dance
Hilton Garden Inn Dallas Lewisville: 785 State Hwy. 121, Lewisville, TX 75067 | 6:30 PM
Dads, treat your little sweetheart (recommended ages 3–15) to a magical night of dancing, dinner, and unforgettable memories! Twirl under twinkling lights, pose for a sweet photo, and enjoy a night made just for you and your girl. Tickets include entry, raffles, and more. Learn how to register and find full event details at www.highlandvillage.org/651/Daddy-Daughter-Dance.
FEBRUARY 21ST
Play with a Purpose
MarineMax Dallas: 1490 N Stemmons Fwy., Lewisville, TX 75067 | 7:00 PM
Step into an elegant evening of games, gourmet fare, and giving back. Join host MarineMax at a dazzling casino night benefitting Feed The Children. Expect luxury, live music, and high-stakes fun where every chip supports a child in need! Get the details at www.marinemax.com/stores/dallas.
FEBRUARY 21ST
Jambalaya Brass Band
Larue Winery: 1491 N Kealy Ave. #1, Lewisville, TX 75057 | 7:00 PM
Raise a glass and let the good times roll! Enjoy bold wines, delicious food, and the lively sounds of the Jambalaya Brass Band—a DFW ensemble bringing authentic New Orleans street music to life. Expect dancing, laughter, and unforgettable memories. Details and tickets available at www.laruewinery.org.
FEBRUARY 27TH
Basil Hayden Bourbon Tasting Dinner
Shoal Creek Tavern: 1701 Shoal Creek, Highland Village, TX 75077 | 6:30 PM
Enjoy a four-course dinner perfectly paired with Basil Hayden’s signature bourbons, from Toast to Malted Rye. Savor bold flavors and learn about each pour in a relaxed, intimate setting. Each course will be thoughtfully paired to highlight the notes that make Basil Hayden so unique. Limited seating. Details and tickets at www.shoalcreektavern.com.
FEBRUARY 28TH
Dishing Up Dreams for Education
Hilton Garden Inn Dallas Lewisville: 785 State Hwy. 121, Lewisville, TX 75067 | 6:30 PM
Savor signature bites from 20 local restaurants while supporting Lewisville ISD students and educators. This flavorful evening celebrates the heart of our community—on every plate and in every dream! Enjoy live music, community connection, and culinary creativity. Learn more and grab your tickets at www.lisdef.com.
LOVE POTION #9
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY
BY ANNA BARNES
A PINK COCKTAIL PERFECT FOR CELEBRATING VALENTINE’S DAY
WHO NEEDS FLOWERS AND CHOCOLATE WHEN YOU CAN HAVE FLOWERS AND COCKTAILS?
This Valentine's Day, whether you plan to treat a loved one, treat your girlfriends, or treat yourself, I can promise you'll want to serve up this perfectly pink cocktail; one I like to call Love Potion #9. It looks as fabulous as it tastes. You can't beat the bright, fresh grapefruit juice and the bubbles add a lively kiss on top. Each sip is dreamier than the next. Cheers, here's to love!
WHAT YOU’LL NEED:
• 1.5 oz rosé
• 5 oz fresh grapefruit juice
• 5 oz simple syrup
• 1 egg white
• 3 oz bubbles (champagne or sparkling wine)
THE HOW-TO:
1. Pour the rosé, simple syrup, egg white, and grapefruit juice into an ice-filled shaker.
2. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds, until chilled.
3. Pour into a coupe glass using the strainer.
4. Top with champagne or sparkling wine.
5. Garnish with edible flowers and grapefruit peel.
6. Enjoy!
