Dripping Springs, TX September 2026 by City Lifestyle

A R T S + C U LTU R E

N I CE H AT TH E ART O F N OSTALGIA HOME + DESIGN

M O DERN H O M ES , O LD SOU L

The Style Issue S E P TE M B E R 2 02 6

(512) 478-3800 carrolltrobermanlaw.com

Standing With You When Everything’s at Stake. CRIMINAL DEFENSE • FAMILY LAW • CPS DEFENSE

Carroll Troberman, PLLC is a boutique law firm led by seasoned attorneys Blair Carroll and Shelly Troberman. Whether you're dealing with a high-conflict divorce or custody battle, a CPS investigation, or criminal charges, our firm is committed to helping individuals and families navigate life's most difficult legal challenges with thoughtful, responsive representation. 3110 US-290, Suite 303 Austin, Texas 78737

1400 West 6th Street Austin, Texas 78703

Dripping Springs’ premier fine jeweler offering hand-selected diamonds, custom creations, and heirloom worthy pieces. We bring luxury, artistry, and heartfelt service to our community and beyond. DIAMONDS | GEMSTONES | BRIDAL | PEARLS | DESIGNER JEWELRY | CUSTOM DESIGNS www.drippingdiamonds.com @drippingdiamondstx Text: 214-813-4250 | Call: 512-829-4186

More than golf. Built for community. Drift Golf + Social is a modern destination where recreation, business, and connection come together. Designed to bring people together, we offer an inviting space to play, work, relax, and build lasting relationships—all under one roof.

S P E C I A L T H A N K S T O O U R FO U N D I N G M E M B E R S C I R C L E

C O M I N G FA L L 2 0 2 6 D R I F TG O L FSOC I A L . C O M

bold, unapologetic & redefining

the home building process. Danyale Keim Design creates timeless interiors with confidence, clarity, and uncompromising attention to detail. From the first redlined floor plan to the final styling touches, we partner with architects, builders, and trusted artisans to bring extraordinary homes to life. With over 16 years of experience, we make the complex feel effortless, so you can enjoy every step of creating a home you'll love for years to come.

INFO@DESIGNSBYDANYALEKEIM.COM 210.379.0870 • DANYALEKEIMDESIGN.COM

A rare offering of 86 homesites in a gated community, thoughtfully crafted on the banks of Barton Creek and among the treasured landscape of the Texas Hill Countr y.

STARTING AT $649,000

VISIT OUR SALES GALLERY AT

LUNAROYA .COM

13755 SILVER CREEK ROAD

512.746.7972

DRIPPING SPRINGS, TX

78620

A SOUTHERN LAND COMPANY COMMUNITY

BTB HOME LOANS

KEEP IT LOCAL.

Mortgages Made Easy... Just Like This Ad

CLOSE IN 2 WEEKS OR LESS BRAD TROTTER | OWNER

(512) 576-4023

BTROTTER@BTBHOMELOANS.COM

ALL LOANS SUBJECT TO CREDIT APPROVAL AND ELIGIBILITY. BRAD TROTTER RMLO# 1010645. BTB HOLDINGS, LLC DBA BTB HOME LOANS, 13341 W US HWY 290 BLDG. 2, STE 133, AUSTIN, TX, 78737, NMLS# 2577520, RESIDENTIAL MORTGAGE LOAN COMPANY.

GREATER CARE FOR OUR COMMUNITY Led by Lara Dudek, MD, Board Certified Ophthalmologist, we’re proud to welcome Dr. Marilyn Kelinske, MD and Dr. Christina Payne, OD to our team. From Dripping Springs to the Greater Austin area, we’re expanding access to advanced eye care, while staying grounded in the personal approach our patients trust.

COMPREHENSIVE CARE INCLUDES: Eye Exams Contact Lenses Laser Vision Correction Cataract Surgery Cosmetic

TWO LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU Austin 11623 Angus Road, #C12 Austin, TX 78759

Dripping Springs 13830 Sawyer Ranch Road, #202 Dripping Springs, TX 78620

512-213-2220 heartoftexaseye.com

Rian Butler,

Attorney & Founder

Helping clients feel like themselves again. I built Butler Injury Law on a simple belief: every injured person deserves more than being another case number. butlerinjury.com | 737-443-6596

LOCAL. LUXURY.

Style

Craftsmanship

Service

DRIPPING, WITH

ST YLE +

LUXURY.

Integrity

Passion

Experience

When you want a home in Dripping Springs, but a backyard on the Mayan Riviera. As one of Dripping Springs’ most respected pool builders, we’re proud to say we can deliver on any project, from resort-style pools to spas and cabanas. Most importantly, we stick to schedule and budget so you can have peace of mind that the backyard oasis of your dreams is completed perfectly, on time and on budget. Our quality and craftsmanship has earned us a reputation in the community for consistency and professionalism. The result? Some of the most spectacular backyards the Hill Country (or the Caribbean) has ever seen. Call us today and let’s get started on yours.

ranchroadpools.com

Community

Luxury

PREMIUM HEIRLOOM PRODUCTS, FOR ALL YOUR OUTDOOR ADVENTURES A locally owned and operated family business, we offer concierge style service for hunting, fly fishing, knives, tools, outdoor apparel and more texasgadgetcompany.com | 512-300-0529 | 13030 US-290, Austin, Texas 78737

New Happy Hour in Dripping Springs

NOW SERVING CRAFT BEER, WINE, MARGARITAS AND FOOD 7 DAYS! Happy Hour in Dripping Springs just got an upgrade. Join us in our taproom M-F 4pm-6pm for daily specials on pints, frozen margaritas, and delicious food from Los Brochachos. New options for the kiddos too, so bring the whole family! Scan QR Code to join our newsletter for info on limited edition beer releases and special events at the taproom. www.twistedxbrewing.com | (512) 829-5323 23455 Ranch to Market Rd 150, Dripping Springs, TX 78620

www.hauscollectiveinteriors.com

Built with Purposeful Design

FOUNDATIONS OF HOME

thoughtfully designed from day one

AN ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN STUDIO

Everything you ever wanted to know about parapets. Starting with, “what’s a parapet?”

WHERE THEORY MEETS PRACTICE

& COLLABORATION IS AT OUR CORE

ĒSO is an Austin-based, woman-led architecture design studio that believes that great design starts with clarity, collaboration and trust. We take the time to explain the why behind every decision, balancing ambition with reality to translate technical details into plain language and practical choices. Because even the loftiest of dream projects needs to be rooted in reality. Our open, transparent process gives you the space to find your space. How many stories is your story? Let’s find out. ESO-ARCH.COM

Building More Than Athletes. Building Future Leaders. Cheer, Tumbling, Ninja & Parkour programs that develop confidence, grit, and lifelong skills in a fun, encouraging environment. Whether your child is discovering a love for movement in Ninja, building confidence through Tumbling, or pursuing excellence in All-Star Cheer, our programs at HC ELITE ATHLETICS & CHEER are designed to develop grit, discipline, leadership, and self-confidence in a positive, family-focused environment. This school year, give your child more than an extracurricular activity—give them a place to grow, belong, and thrive.

Schedule Your Complimentary Trial Class info@hceliteathletics.com info@hcelitecheer.com

www.hceliteathletics.com 14101 W Highway 290, Austin TX 78737 www.hcelitecheer.com 10020 Darden Hill Rd Unit 12&13, Austin, TX 78737

Exceptional Digestive Care.

Close to

HOME. For more than 40 years, Austin Gastroenterology has been Central Texas’ trusted leader in digestive care. At our Dripping Springs clinic, board-certified gastroenterologists Dr. David Kim and Dr. Adam Hafemeister provide expert, personalized care close to home. Whether you’re due for a preventive colonoscopy or looking for answers to ongoing digestive concerns, we’re here to help you stay healthy for the moments that matter most.

SPECIALIZING IN: Colon Cancer Prevention | GERD and Reflux Management | Irritable Bowel Syndrome Inflammatory Bowel Disease | Liver Disease

512-829-2101 | austingastro.com | 170 Benney Ln, Suite 201, Dripping Springs, TX 78620

Scan to learn about our Dripping Springs location and request an appointment

LIFESTYLE LETTER

A Different Drummer Style is one of those words that means something different to everyone. For some, it's found in the clothes they wear or the way they decorate a home. For others, it's reflected in how they lead a team, communicate with friends, cook a meal, raise a family, create art, play music, or build a business. Our style is woven into nearly every part of who we are. And often, style isn’t perfect but, rather, found in the details that make something feel lived-in and real. The scuff on an otherwise perfect pair of boots. The dirt on a well-worn hat. The small imperfections that tell a story are the details that give style its character. The common thread is that it's uniquely ours. Like many people, I spent years trying to fit in, wearing what everyone else wore, listening to the same music, and doing my best to blend into the crowd. It wasn’t until I got older, and especially after becoming a mom, that I began to understand what my parents had been trying to teach me all along: The goal was never to fit in. The goal was to become comfortable being myself. A while back, I was out shopping when I stumbled across a stack of vintage stationery. As I flipped through the cards, one called out. It featured a quote by Henry David Thoreau: "If a man does not keep pace with his companions, perhaps it is because he hears a different drummer. Let him step to the music which he hears, however measured or far away." That card came home with me and now has a permanent place on my coffee table where I see it almost every day. I bought it because it reminded me of my sweet son Reid, but over time, I've realized it’s an anthem for all of us. I love it because the message is simple: Don't be afraid to embrace your own style. This month, we celebrate style in all its forms and embrace what makes each of us beautifully, authentically ourselves. Whether it’s classic or bold, quiet or adventurous, polished or wonderfully eclectic, it's your unique style that makes our community and our world more interesting.

W H I T N I E S T R AU S S , M A N AG I N G E D I TO R @DRIPPINGSPRINGSCITYLIFESTYLE

September 2026 PUBLISHER

Will Rivera | will.rivera@citylifestyle.com CO-PUBLISHER

Karen Rivera | karen.rivera@citylifestyle.com M AN AG I N G E D I TO R

Whitnie Strauss | whitnie.strauss@citylifestyle.com M AR K E T S U P P O RT D I R E C TO R

Annie O'Brien | annie.obrien@citylifestyle.com C O PY E D I TO R

Melissa Svoboda | melissa.svoboda@citylifestyle.com STAF F W R I T E R

Melissa Svoboda | melissa.svoboda@citylifestyle.com S O C I AL M E D I A C O O R D I N ATO R

Isabella Aldrete | isabella.raquel@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R I AL C O O R D I N ATO R

Iris Castro | iris.castro@citylifestyle.com SAL E S S U P P O RT D I R E C TO R

Nathan Synoground nathan.synoground@citylifestyle.com INTERNS

Leia Grenat, Vivian Gomez CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Elona Appleby, Brianna Arambula, Stacy Berg, Connie Chang, Megan Ewing, Marissa Fisk, Jesse Hardy, Ashlee Heiligman, Kristi Sellers, Christina Thompson, Micah Wiener, Maggie Wylie C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S

Stacy Berg, Kimber Brown, Iris Castro, Chase Daniel, Shelby Estes, Marissa Fisk, Summer Miles, Paige Newton, Whitney Runyon, Georges Schemagin, Brittany Sudwischer, David Trevino

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry CRO Jamie Pentz CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford LAYOUT DESIGNER Meredith Wilson QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Dripping Springs City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Dripping Springs area’s most

Visit our Instagram CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/DRIPPINGSPRINGS

affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Dripping Springs City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

FROM TEE TIME TO WINE TIME It’s a lifestyle where confidence, comfort, and timeless Hill Country charm come together from the first swing to the final toast.

MINUTES AWAY, WORLDS APART. SCHEDULE YOUR PRIVATE TOUR TODAY 830.598.7846 | CLUBHSB.COM | MEMBERSHIP@HSBRESORT.COM

10 years

A more advanced approach to healing. Celebrating 10 years of personalized chiropractic care. At Precision Chiropractic, care is designed around you. As the only Advanced Certiﬁed Chiropractic BioPhysics® (CBP) practitioners in Texas, Dr. Eberle and Dr. Hagen combine advanced diagnostics, precise chiropractic techniques, and complementary therapies to create personalized treatment plans focused on long-term wellness and lasting results.

SCHEDULE TODAY

512-362-8865 | precisionchiropracticatx.com | 13062 US-290 #100, Austin, TX 78737

Please come see us for a smile

Born and raised in Dripping Springs, Dr. Shane Whisenant, is proud to be providing trustworthy, quality dentistry to his community. At Gatlin Creek Dentistry, our patients can experience better living through comprehensive dental care and improved oral health. Hours: Monday - Wednesday 8-5, Thursday 8-3, Friday Appointment Only www.gatlincreekdentistry.com | 5128942358 13341 W Highway 290, Suite 402 Austin, TX 78737

inside the issue SE PTE M B E R 2 02 6 | STYL E

Print Prestige Meets Digital Power.

50 92

Featured

92 96

Departments

The Art of Nostalgia How Illustrator Greta Mantooth Blends Vintage Style, Modern Design, and Heartfelt Storytelling

Style Before Strategy Why the Brands That Stand Out Know Who They Are Before Deciding What To Post

Nice Hat

The Unexpected Journey Behind Saints Western—and Why Cowboy Cool Never Goes Out of Style

On the Cover

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Must See PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Giving Back LIFE + CULTURE

Decor Trends HOME + DESIGN

Artist’s Palette ARTS + CULTURE

Home Update HOME + DESIGN

Local Limelight SHOPPING

Self Care PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Maker’s Studio ARTS + CULTURE

Auto Club AUTO + MARINE

Open House HOME + DESIGN

How To LOCAL SERVICES

Maker’s Studio ARTS + CULTURE

102 Inspired By LIFE + CULTURE 104 Road Trip TRAVEL

Emilie Crockett of Texas Iowa Reclaimed shows how reclaimed wood gives contemporary homes warmth, history, and soul.

108 Fashion Forward STYLE + BEAUTY

Photography: Kimber Brown

112

110 Culinary Creations FOOD + BEVERAGE Events

WHY CHOOSE BETWEEN PRESTIGE AND PLACEMENT? With City Lifestyle’s co-branded print + digital packages, your business captures attention wherever our community is looking. Build unmatched local credibility on the page, and drive immediate action online. Ready to double your local reach? Contact your local publisher by scanning below.

There is no

“one-size-fits-all” mortgage.

Just like great style, your mortgage should be designed specifically for you. Choosing a lender who understands your financial picture, lifestyle needs, and long-term plans can make all the difference. As a proud Dripping Springs resident and senior mortgage advisor, Justin Hrabovsky is committed to delivering tailored financing strategies to help you achieve your home ownership goals with confidence.

Justin Hrabovsky, Owner NMLS#1022103 512-665-8353 justin@rate-advantage.com

Scan or visit Rate-Advantage.com to explore rates and learn more

All loans subject to credit approval. Not a commitment to lend. Rate Advantage is dba of NEXA Mortgage LLC corp NMLS# 1660690. 5559 S Sossaman Rd Bldg 1 Ste 101 Mesa AZ 85212. Equal housing Lender.

SEPTEMBER 2026

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

OHMYSOULPHOTOGRAPHY

5 @DRIPPINGSPRINGSISD

7 @THECLUB_HSB

@DRIPPINGSPRINGSISD

1: A spectacular Fourth of July fireworks show lit up the sky at Twisted X Brewing 2: TDSCL co-hosted a full day of entertainment at Twisted X to celebrate the Fourth of July 3: Carson Hamby won 5v5 soccer gold representing Team Texas at the Special Olympics USA Games 4: The Club at Horseshoe Bay hosted a festive Yappy Hour Pizza Pawty 5: Senior Quincy Gable captured several titles at the Texas Scholastic Clay Target Program State Championship 6: DSISD Superintendent Holly Morris-Kuentz, Ed.D., was named 2026 ESC Region 13 Superintendent of the Year 7: Local shoppers gather at the four-day BURLEBO Warehouse Sale

Want to be seen in the magazine? TA G Y O U R I N S TA G R A M P H O T O S W I T H @ D R I P P I N G S P R I N G S C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E

C I T Y SC E N E

STYLE IS MORE THAN A LOOK. IT IS HOW YOU LIVE. Bringing experience, creativity, and a personal touch to every real estate move.

Your Hill Country Connection to all things real estate

STEPHANIE POPE - REALTOR ® 512-644-0413 || WWW.POPETEAMREALESTATE.COM STEPHANIE@NESTHAVENPROPERTIES.COM

LAND - RESIDENTIAL - FARM & RANCH - EQUESTRIAN PROPERTIES

BUILD WITH INTENTION...

...BUILD WITH STRONG ROOTS Style fades. Substance remains. Nothing here exists by accident. Every material, every choice, every unseen detail was intentional. A home isn't built on trends. It's built on decisions that outlast them.

@srd_builder

Build the Memories Before these summers are Memories

512-200-4244 www.longhornpools.com

Next Summer Starts This Fall!

SEPTEMBER 2026

business monthly A R O U N D U P O F N E W S F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S

Stars on the Rise Ten new star sculptures have been added to The Stars of Dripping Springs Public Art Project, appearing throughout the community at locations such as H-E-B, Founders Memorial Park, and Dripping Springs Ranch Park. The project celebrates creativity, community, and the beauty of the Texas Hill Country, each star inviting residents and visitors to explore the unique spirit and artistic charm of Dripping Springs. DrippingSpringsTX.gov

Photography by Destination Dripping Springs

Caroll Troberman Welcomes Stephanie Holan Attorney Stephanie Holan has joined the Carroll Troberman team, bringing with her a wealth of experience in complex family law matters, criminal defense, and education law. Dedicated to helping people navigate life's most challenging moments, Holan is proud to fight for families with skill and compassion. CarrollTrobermanLaw.com

Scan to read more Photography by @carrolltroberman

Face Alchemy Expands to Include Telehealth Services Face Alchemy is now offering a new telehealth platform for medical weight loss, peptide therapy, and wellness services. The practice also offers its signature aesthetic treatments, from injectables and collagen-stimulating procedures to advanced lasers, luxury facials, and medical-grade skincare. FaceAlchemy.org

Scan to read more

Want to be featured? G E T I N T O U C H AT C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E . C O M / D R I P P I N G S P R I N G S

B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

Listed with Kim 475 DESERT WILLOW WAY HIGHPOINTE SUBDIVISION Contact Kim for more information.

Kim Burke HILL COUNTRY LUXURY EXPERT | REALTOR® 512.912.6075 KimB@ChristiesRealEstate.com www.KimBurkeRealty.com

NOW OPEN ON MAIN STREET IN BUDA! Family-Owned classic steakhouse fare with premium seafood dishes and a raw bar.

116 MAIN STREET BUDA, TX 78610 5 1 2 . 9 5 7. 8 9 9 1 | TA S T E O N M A I N . C O M

BEFORE the CAMERA ROLLS

GOOD VIDEO BEG INS LONG BEFORE PRODUCTION—WITH LISTENING, S T R AT E G Y, A N D A C L E A R U N D E R S TA N D I N G O F W H AT A B U S I N E S S S TA N D S F O R

M U ST SE E | P RO FES SI O N AL SE RVICE S

ARTICLE BY BRIANNA ARAMBULA PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

We have always believed that good video starts long before a camera comes out. It starts with listening. It starts with understanding what a business is actually trying to build and why that work matters to the people they serve. That is why videography has become such an important tool for branding. It is not just because people like watching videos, though they do. It is because video has a unique ability to help people understand a business quickly, clearly, and emotionally. A brand is the impression people carry with them after they encounter your business. It is what they believe about your work, your values, your standards, and the kind of experience they can expect from you.

Video helps shape that impression. For many businesses—especially those doing real, tangible, meaningful work—the most powerful parts of their story are not always obvious from the outside. People may see the finished project, the final product, or the service being offered, but they do not always see the process behind it. They do not see the planning, the long hours, the craftsmanship, the care, or the people who make it all happen. That is where video becomes invaluable. It gives your audience a way to see the work behind the work. They can hear your voice. They can watch your process. They can see the environment, the details, the movement, and the faces behind the business. They can begin to understand not only what you do, but why you do it and what makes your approach different. In a crowded market, that matters. Today, people have more options than ever. Before they reach out, they are usually forming an opinion through your website, social media, reviews, and the content they find online. They are asking themselves whether your business feels credible, whether your work feels aligned with what they need, and whether they can trust you. Good video helps answer those questions without forcing the message. It does not have to be loud or trendy. It does not have to chase attention for the sake of attention. The strongest video content is rooted in truth. It reveals what is already there. The pride in the work. The personality of the team. The standard behind the service. The reason the business exists in the first place. That kind of content does more than just look good. It builds recognition and creates consistency, helping customers remember you before they are ready to buy and trust you when they are ready to make a decision. We have seen how much stronger a brand becomes when its story is clear. The messaging becomes more focused. The visuals become more intentional. The content starts to work together instead of feeling scattered or reactive. That is why we approach video with strategy first. We are not interested in creating content just to create content. We want to understand the heart of the business, the people it serves, and the goals behind the work. From there, videography becomes a tool that can do what branding is meant to do: connect and build trust. At its best, video does not just make a business look professional. It helps people feel the weight of the work, the care behind the process, and the story worth remembering. SalterraStudios.com | @salterrastudios

MEET SALTERR A STUDIOS Every great brand has a story worth telling, and Salterra Studios exists to help businesses tell it with purpose. Based in Austin and serving clients throughout Central Texas and beyond, Salterra is a full-service creative agency specializing in premium video production, photography, and strategic marketing content designed to build trust and drive results. Founded by partners Mark Leatherman and Brianna Arambula, the studio combines more than 15 years of experience in filmmaking, marketing, and visual storytelling. Rather than simply creating beautiful content, the team begins every project with strategy, taking time to ask questions and understand each client’s goals, audience, and message before developing a creative plan. From brand films and commercial productions to photography, drone videography, social media content, and advertising campaigns, Salterra offers end-to-end creative services for businesses of all sizes. Its collaborative process ensures every project is crafted to not only look exceptional but also support measurable business growth. Inspired by the phrase “salt of the earth,” Salterra Studios believes in hard work, authenticity, and creating meaningful stories that help businesses become trusted cornerstones in their communities.

S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/D RI P P I N G S P R I N G S

Texas Iowa Reclaimed

WWW.TEXASIOWARECLAIMED.COM | 832.257.3249 V@TEXASIOWARECLAIMED

Styles change. Thoughtful design endures.

Beautiful homes aren't defined by trends. They're shaped by the people who live in them. Through thoughtful architecture, I help create homes that feel timeless, personal, and built for real life. www.katetart.com | 512.968.2285 | v@katetartarch

Style With Purpose

EVERY HANDCRAFTED PIECE CREATES OPPORTUNITY FOR WOMEN AND FAMILIES ON THE THAILAND-MYANMAR BORDER ARTICLE BY ASHLEE HEILIGMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY WHITNEY RUNYON

G IV IN G BAC K | L I FE + CU LT U RE

Behind every purchase, there is a story. A mother providing for her children. A young woman learning a new skill. An artisan discovering confidence, community, and opportunity. Headquartered in Dripping Springs and handcrafted on the Thailand-Myanmar border, Sojourn Studio creates porcelain jewelry, ornaments, and home goods that connect women across the world through beauty, craftsmanship, and opportunity. The ongoing war in Myanmar has displaced millions of people and created profound challenges for families seeking safety and stability. Along the Thailand-Myanmar border, many

young women are working to support their families, care for loved ones, and build brighter futures despite limited access to education, employment, and opportunity. Their determination is extraordinary, but pathways forward are often few. Sojourn Studio was created to help fill that gap. Through dignified employment, skills training, mentorship, and community, women gain the opportunity to earn income, support their families, and pursue goals that once felt out of reach. Sojourn Studio seeks to reflect the love of Jesus through the way women are valued, encouraged, and supported. What begins CONTINUED >

“Each design is carefully formed, painted, and assembled by skilled artisans whose craftsmanship helps strengthen families and create new opportunities for the next generation.”

S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/D RI P P I N G S P R I N G S

with clay becomes something much greater: confidence, stability, leadership, and hope. Every piece of Sojourn Studio jewelry reflects that journey. Each design is carefully formed, painted, and assembled by skilled artisans whose craftsmanship helps strengthen families and create new opportunities for the next generation. This summer, model and philanthropist Sharina Gutierrez traveled to Thailand to meet Sojourn Studio’s artisans and experience the work firsthand. Inspired by the strength, creativity, and determination of the women she met, Gutierrez is now partnering with Sojourn Studio to help grow a community of creators and advocates who use their influence for good. This fall, Sojourn Studio will unveil a newly redesigned website and refreshed brand experience in partnership with Austin creative Whitney Runyon. Through platforms like ShopMy and Shopify Collabs, supporters can shop, share, earn affiliate income, and help expand dignified opportunities for artisans and their families. Because style can be more than self-expression: It can create opportunity, strengthen families, and help write a better story. SojournStudio.org

G IV IN G BAC K | L I FE + C ULT U RE

Meet the Founder Ashlee Heiligman is the co-founder of Sojourn Studio. A social worker with more than 20 years of experience in child welfare and family strengthening, she has spent much of her career serving vulnerable children and families throughout Southeast Asia. After years of working along the Thailand-Myanmar border, Heiligman saw a critical need for meaningful employment opportunities for young women and mothers seeking to build stable futures. In 2017, she helped launch Sojourn Studio to create dignified work, economic opportunity, and community through handcrafted porcelain jewelry. Today, Sojourn Studio employs and trains women artisans who handcraft each piece while earning income, developing skills, and supporting their families. What began as a small artisan initiative has grown into a thriving social enterprise connecting women in Thailand and Myanmar with customers across the United States. Based in Dripping Springs, Heiligman is passionate about helping consumers understand the impact behind their purchases and demonstrating how business can create lasting change. Through Sojourn Studio, she hopes to inspire women to use their influence, creativity, and purchasing power to expand opportunity, strengthen families, and help others move toward a hope-filled future.

YOUR LOCAL AWARD WINNING

Landscape Architects Transforming Spaces.

L A N D S C A P E A R C H I T E C T S , P L A N N E R S & I R R I G A T I O N C O NElevating S U LT AExperiences. N TS Transforming Spaces, Elevating Experiences At Ecoland, our team provides creative solutions to create spaces that drive community, connection, and excitement. The essence of our work is in the details — creating beautiful, meaningful, and impactful spaces with purpose. The Jones Family

URBAN DESIGN MIXED USE DEVELOPMENT STREETSCAPES INDUSTRIAL

512.344.9204 www.ecolanddesigngroup.com team@ecolanddesigngroup.com

Before we build your home, we build your certainty.

Every JSH home begins with a true cost: design, pricing, and allowances settled on paper, before we break ground. No surprises, no guessing, just a calm, managed build and a home delivered exactly as you imagined. After 35 years building Austin’s finest custom homes, we believe certainty is the real luxury.

www.JSH.group | 512-416-6500

Scan to view a featured residence and request a private consultation

Project: Funky Flare Lake Tra isb

TIPLER DESIGN ARCHITECTURE • INTERIORS

Thoughtfully designed. Distinctly personal.

Project: TIPLER Showcase Driftwood Golf Ranch Club

AUSTIN • HILL COUNTRY TIPLERDESIGNAUSTIN.COM

ARTICLE BY MELISSA SVOBODA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KIMBER BROWN

MODERN HOMES, OLD SOUL

D E C OR T R E N D S | HO M E + D E SIGN

T H E N E W W E S T E R N A E S T H E T I C PA I R S R E C L A I M E D W O O D W I T H C O N T E M P O R A R Y D E S I G N T O C R E AT E S PA C E S RICH I N WA RM T H A N D H IS TO RY

Dripping Springs is changing. This old, one-stoplight small town isn’t so small anymore. Today, as the community continues to grow, it’s learning that honoring the past and embracing the future don’t have to be opposing ideas. Sometimes, the most beautiful places are those that find room for both. Texas Iowa Reclaimed has been doing just that for decades. By salvaging centuries-old wood from barns, homes, and historic structures, then transforming those materials into custom building materials for today’s homes, the family-run company infuses contemporary spaces with warmth and authenticity. Owner Emilie Crockett senses that homeowners are craving real substance. After years of chasing the newest trends and the quickest, cheapest ways of doing things, many are returning to materials that have proven themselves over time. “People are leaning toward natural in every capacity of life right now,” she says. “What’s beautiful about reclaimed is it’s tried and true. It has lived lives before, and it’s still standing, and it’s only gotten better and harder and more durable.” Texas Iowa Reclaimed carries that enduring quality into homes through floors, beams and boards, and other custom features shaped by decades of craftsmanship and character. “Wood will always be there,” Crockett says. “We’ve always built with it, and hopefully we always will. I think bringing reclaimed into the home is a nod toward that authenticity because it’s raw and beautiful.” Despite its age, reclaimed wood feels remarkably at home in contemporary design. One of Crockett’s favorite aspects of her work is pairing rustic reclaimed wood with crisp lines, sharp angles, and refined finishes like sleek drywall. Sometimes, she says, a single reclaimed element is enough to transform the entire space. “Reclaimed wood brings a warmth to a room, and it’s a huge statement piece,” Crockett says. To strike

the delicate balance between old and new, she often combines reclaimed with big slab countertops, metal accents, and rich fabrics. “The more texture you can bring in, the more warm and inviting your home will be.” That character can complement virtually any aesthetic. Many clients come to Crockett unsure about how reclaimed wood fits their style. Whether they gravitate toward modern minimalism, traditional design, or something in between, the answer comes down to how the wood is finished. “We meet people where they are,” Crockett says. Because every project is custom, Texas Iowa Reclaimed tailors each piece to the homeowner’s vision, preserving original hand-hewn axe marks and weathered patina for a more traditional look or refining the surface for a clean, contemporary feel. No matter the aesthetic, reclaimed wood can “give it a little more heart,” she says. In fact, this freedom to blend styles is what keeps Crockett inspired. “There are no rules,” she says. “Mixing styles and coloring outside the lines is what style is all about. You don’t have CONTINUED > S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/D RI P P I N G S P R I N G S

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“I THINK THERE IS ABSOLUTE BEAUTY IN FINDING WHAT LASTS THE TEST OF TIME.” - EMILIE CROCKETT

to go trendy—you can go classic, mix it with modern, mix it with Old World.” “Just lean into what you love,” she continues. “This is artwork you’re going to live in, so you want it to bring a smile to your face.” And it doesn’t have to be perfect. In fact, its beauty lies in honest imperfection, from weathered patina to old nail holes and natural grain variations. Each mark and scar bears witness to

decades—sometimes centuries—of American life. For homeowners seeking substance, those details transform reclaimed wood from a building material into a conversation piece. “The imperfections tell a story,” Crockett says, “and everybody loves a good story.” Those tales stretch far beyond a single home. Long before they became beams, flooring, or boards, these timbers supported the barns and buildings that helped shape early America. Their worn edges and weathered surfaces now offer a tangible connection to that history, preserving generations of craftsmanship, daily life, and a small piece of our nation’s heritage. For Crockett, reclaimed wood’s value comes from what it has already endured. “I think there is absolute beauty in finding what lasts the test of time,” she says. That appreciation for materials with a proven history is influencing today’s homes in unexpected ways. One growing trend is kitchen cabinetry. After years of bright white kitchens, homeowners are rediscovering the warmth of wood. Smooth reclaimed white oak offers a clean, uniform look while bringing natural texture back into the heart of the home. Reclaimed softwoods are also becoming popular for porch ceilings, adding color and character to outdoor living spaces. The possibilities extend throughout the home. Crockett often points homeowners toward flooring because, as she puts it, “It’s one of the first things you notice in a home, and it makes a CONTINUED > S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/D RI P P I N G S P R I N G S

beautiful impact.” Even a few thoughtfully placed beams can bring architectural interest without requiring a major investment. “They can really tie a home together in a beautiful way.” As Dripping Springs continues to grow and many homeowners search for ways to create spaces that feel contemporary yet soulful, Texas Iowa Reclaimed reflects that same balance, carrying the craftsmanship and character of our country’s earliest structures into homes designed for today. In a community that’s continually writing its next chapter, reclaimed wood is a reminder that history doesn’t end when a building comes down. Sometimes it simply takes on a new form, becoming part of the homes—and the stories—still being built. TexasIowaReclaimed.com | @texasiowareclaimed

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Family Owned. Family Operated. Family Oriented. We live here - We work here - We serve here Exceptional Roofing & Service Since 2009 10,000+ roofs installed locally | Insurance Specialists | Metal Roof Experts Licensed & Insured | New Construction & Roof Replacement

Visit our showroom 888-884-9727 | 18992 Fm 150 W, Driftwood, Texas 78619

A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | ARTS + CU LT U RE

THE ART OF NOSTALGIA How Illustrator Greta Mantooth Blends Vintage Style, Modern Design, and Heartfelt Storytelling ARTICLE BY CHRISTINA THOMPSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY IRIS CASTRO

Step inside Greta Mantooth’s studio, and you’ll find shelves lined with vintage picture books, stacks of sketchbooks, and the inspiration behind an illustration style that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly original. For Mantooth, the past isn’t something to recreate—it’s something to reinterpret, blending the warmth and charm of vintage illustration with stories inspired by her life today. CONTINUED >

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Illustration by Greta Mantooth

A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | ARTS + CU LT U RE

“I always want my work to feel like me. My illustrations are shorthand for who I am—the colors I love and what I like to make.” - Greta Mantooth CONTINUED > S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/D RI P P I N G S P R I N G S

“I was raised on books,” she shares. “I was obsessed with picture books as a kid and was always drawn to books that had loosely drawn, fun characters.” That childhood fascination never faded. Today, Mantooth is a creative director whose work has helped shape campaigns for nationally recognized brands including Target and Indeed. As a freelancer, she led projects for brands such as Google and CreatorIQ , specializing in brand identity, packaging, and advertising design. Alongside client work, she’s pursuing a lifelong dream: becoming a published children’s book author and illustrator. Each of Mantooth’s illustrations begins with hand-drawn pencil sketches before moving into digital color. She also hand-paints textures and color washes, scans them into her computer, and layers them into each piece, creating artwork that feels tactile, timeless, and distinctly her own. While studying fine arts, she fell in love with printmaking and the craftsmanship behind vintage printing techniques. The thoughtfully limited color palettes and layered textures of older picture books continue to influence her work today. “I always want my work to feel like me,” Mantooth says. “My illustrations are shorthand for who I am—the colors I love and what I like to make.” Her collection of vintage picture books serves as both inspiration and research, reminding

A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | ARTS + CU LT U RE

her that physical books still hold a special kind of magic. “My love of vintage stems from paper books,” she says. “I love to hold the physical book.” That appreciation for books led Mantooth back to illustration during the coronavirus pandemic. “In the winter of 2021, I thought, ‘It’s time to draw again.’” She dusted off an idea inspired by her lovable rescue dog, Brody, and began creating Brody Dreams of Pizza, a whimsical picture book about a sweet pup who, in her words, “is not the brightest crayon in the box.” Today, Mantooth is actively pursuing publication as both the author and illustrator, working with critique groups around the world and through the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators to refine her manuscript and artwork. Her years in advertising prepared her well for the publishing process. “The creative world is a rejection-filled process,” she says. Accustomed to presenting creative work and receiving feedback, she views critique as an essential part of making the work stronger. “It’s a vulnerable process,” she says. “A creative team I worked with introduced me to a guiding principle that still shapes how I work: Be hard on the work and kind to each other.” Her stories are inspired by the people, pets, and places she loves most. Her children, rescue dogs, and everyday experiences often spark ideas, helping her process the world through storytelling.

Her next picture book follows an unlikely hero—a little rattlesnake who’s terrified of humans, a story inspired by Mantooth’s own longtime fear of rattlesnakes. Set against the backdrop of Texas wildflower season, the book became an unexpected way for her to confront that fear while celebrating everything she loves about the Hill Country, from its vibrant blooms to the wildlife that calls it home. “One of the ways to make art feel really personal and create connection is to be extremely specific,” she says. Even outside of deadlines, Mantooth keeps a sketchbook close by, filling its pages with gratitude drawings made simply for the joy of creating. For Mantooth, illustration has never been just about making beautiful pictures. It’s about creating stories that stay with readers long after the final page. “When you read a book as a child, it becomes part of who you are and shapes you,” she says. “If one of my books can become that kind of lasting memory for a child, I’ll feel like I’ve accomplished something truly meaningful.” Like the vintage books that first captured her imagination, Mantooth hopes her stories become well-loved companions for the next generation—proof that thoughtful illustrations and heartfelt storytelling never go out of style. LadyToothDraws.com @theladytooth_draws

Legacy

CONTINUES

UNDER CONTRACT in 31 days | 1457AvenidaHigh.com is 18-acre property epitomizes quality, character, and functional ease. We are thrilled for our sellers and for the new buyers who now get to enjoy the quiet beauty of this exceptional place to call home.

Some things are worth passing down.

Real estate has always been more than a career for Jan Moreland — it’s a legacy. Moreland Properties, founded by Jan’s mother, Emily Moreland, has spent over four decades helping clients find not just houses, but homes. Now, that tradition continues with the newest addition to the team, Jan’s daughter – Perry Moreland Coburn – a licensed realtor bringing her own energy, expertise, and heart to the family business. Same values. Same dedication. A new generation ready to serve you.

JAN MOREL AND REALTOR® Dripping Springs Resident 512.694.0494 | jan@moreland.com @janmorelandproperties | moreland.com

PERRY MORELAND COBURN REALTOR®

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ARTICLE BY MAGGIE WYLIE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHASE DANIEL AND PAIGE NEWTON

Style, Remembered THE PLACES THAT FEEL LIKE HOME ARE OFTEN CONNECTED TO MEMORIES WE DIDN’T REALIZE WE WERE KEEPING

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Can we talk about how weird style actually is? I can experience a space and something in me just clicks— like, my whole nervous system exhales. But show that same space to my neighbor and they’ll shrug. Same site, same light, same bones. Completely different reaction. That’s not a coincidence, and it’s definitely not a trend cycle. That’s just us— our own weird, specific wiring. I’ve come to believe style isn’t something you choose so much as something you already carry. It’s not a Pinterest board. It’s not a canned label like “modern farmhouse” or

“Hill Country contemporary,” even though the internet really, really wants it to be. Style is subconscious before it’s ever visual. Your brain has been quietly collecting for your entire life—the light in your grandmother’s kitchen, the cool of a stone floor on a summer trip, the particular hush of a house you visited once and never forgot. It’s archiving all of it without asking your permission, filing away connections you didn’t know you were making. And then one day you walk into a room, or past a threshold, or under a roofline, and something in that archive gets CONTINUED >

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triggered. That flicker of recognition isn’t random—it’s every experience you’ve ever had quietly agreeing that this, somehow, is you. Here’s the fun plot twist, though: As personal as style is, some things are non-negotiable for absolutely everybody. Balance, for one. It doesn’t matter if you love bold and asymmetrical or calm and symmetrical; composition must resolve. Massing has to feel intentional. Weight has to sit right, visually and structurally, in a way the eye trusts before the mind ever explains why. It’s like music: You can write in any genre, but it must be in tune. Honestly, the best part of my job is rolling up my sleeves and getting into the weeds that is you. When someone asks me to help shape their style, I don’t start with the sculpture, paint chips, or materials. I start with questions that have nothing to do with design at all. How do you move throughout the day? Do you host 15 people for Sunday dinner or crave a house that disappears into the hillside so you can hear yourself think? What’s a place you’ve traveled to that you still think about? What are little things that make you smile or laugh? What do you want your kids, or your future self, to feel when they pull into the driveway? Because here’s the thing—style was never really about the house. It’s a visual representation of connection. Connection to your history, your land, the version of yourself you’re still becoming. So no, style can’t be bought off a shelf or copied from a screenshot. But it’s already in you. It’s layered, a little messy, completely unrepeatable. My job is just to help you see it and then design something joyful enough to hold it. Eso-Arch.com | @eso_architecture

Inside ĒSO Architecture ĒSO, derived from a Greek root meaning "within," reflects the firm's philosophy of understanding clients before designing spaces around them. Principal architect and owner Maggie Wylie, AIA, NCARB, leads projects from concept through construction with a collaborative, holistic approach.

H OM E U P DAT E | HO M E + D E SIGN

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Dripping Springs Family Smiles Dentists, Dr. Gianna Quintana and Dr. Christopher DeMarco, are excited and honored to be serving the Dripping Springs community by providing comprehensive dental care.

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Suited A N D Armed 64

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T h e O n e - o f- a - K i n d S h o p Re d e f i n i n g St yle in Dripping Springs ARTICLE BY MICAH WIENER PHOTOGRAPHY BY SUMMER MILES

There’s a small building behind Texas Gadget Company on Highway 290 that doesn’t look like much from the outside. Step through the door, and you’ll likely say the same thing everyone else does: Whoa. I had no idea this was back here. CONTINUED >

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That reaction is exactly what Chris and Wendy Bykowski are going for. Their shop, Bykowski Tailor & Garb, is a singular retail experience. It’s part bespoke tailor, part vintage firearms gallery, entirely unlike anything else. The fact that it’s tucked behind a former feed store in the Hill Country only adds to the mystique. The story starts back in 2009, when Chris couldn’t find a suit he actually wanted to wear. The mainstream options were ill-fitting and painfully generic. Chris couldn’t find slim, European-inspired tailoring. So he and his bride, Wendy, decided to do something about it. What began as a pop-up in Austin grew into a full shop downtown. For over a decade, Chris and Wendy built a clientele drawn to their specialty: vintage-inspired, impeccably fitted custom suits. About half of their work skews vintage, the other half toward weddings. The custom process is fundamentally different. “Seventy percent of why something fits is the body type itself, not just the measurements,” Chris says. At Bykowski, patterns are cut to the nuances of each individual before being sent to expert tailors in the United Kingdom. Fabrics are sourced from mills across the United States and Europe. The result is a suit that exists nowhere else in the world. When the coronavirus pandemic shuttered their downtown location, Chris and Wendy moved the business to their home in Dripping Springs. Chris converted his music studio into a fitting space and created a mezcal bar. Clients made the drive for fittings under the oaks. The community welcomed them. And when the old feed store space became available, they jumped at the chance. In 2017, they added a second dimension to the business: firearms. Chris, a Navy veteran who served in Iraq in 2003, had always been drawn to ornate, vintage guns. Bykowski Tailor & Garb’s collection includes World War I and II-era pieces, fully engraved custom pistols, and much more. “We just like beautiful things,” he says simply. Wendy puts it a little differently: “I like my guns the way I like my jewelry—antique gold, some pearls, a little gaudy.” BykowskiTailorGarb.com @bykowskitailorgarb

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PEDIATRIC CARE, REDEFINED Pediatric care should be simple, available, and high quality. Direct Primary Care through Sparrow Pediatrics provides timely access to a pediatrician who provides individualized care focused on the whole child and partners with parents through all seasons of life.

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FACE ALCHEMY boutique med spa Where thoughtful aesthetic medicine meets longterm skin health

Injectables Skin Rejuvenation Collagen Restoration Luxury Facials Laser & IPL Therapies 251 Old Fitzhugh Rd Downtown Dripping Springs, Fitzhugh Historical District S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/D RI P P I N G S P R I N G S

exceeding standards in automotive service for our Community

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Growing smiles in Dripping Springs! At our pediatric dental office, caring for kids isn’t just our job—it’s personal. We’re a local practice, raising our family right here in the same community as yours. We treat every child who walks through our doors the way we’d want our own kids treated: with patience, kindness, and expert care. From first teeth to confident grins, parents trust us to create positive dental experiences that set kids up for a lifetime of healthy smiles.

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The Style of Love You have a style. Everybody does. It shows up in what you wear and what you drive, sure. But it also shows up in how you enter a room, how you treat the server who got your order wrong, how you handle a Tuesday that falls apart before 9 a.m. Style is expression. The outside telling a story about the inside. So, in an issue devoted to style, it’s worth asking a deeper question: Is your style expressing who you are or constructing who you want people to think you are? I know the difference because I spent years on the wrong side of it. I enlisted in the Marine Corps the day I turned 17 and, over the next three decades, I climbed from the infantry to the C-suite. Along the way, I dressed myself in titles. Marine. School Teacher. Manager. Director. Executive. Each one fit for a season, and each one was earned. Then one morning, I caught my reflection while knotting a tie for a meeting I no longer believed in, and I didn’t recognize the man wearing the suit. Somewhere in the climb, I had stopped expressing an identity and started constructing one. There is a word for what we wear when we perform. It’s called a costume. And costumes are exhausting.

When Who You Are and How You Live Finally Match, You Wear It Everywhere You Go ARTICLE BY JESSE HARDY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID TREVINO

S ELF CA R E | P RO FES SI O N AL SE RVICE S

“Buy the boots. Wear the hat. Enjoy every bit of the fall lineup because fashion is a gift and this town does it well. Just don’t ask fashion to do a job it was never designed to do.”

Maybe you know the feeling. The image is polished, the calendar is full, and the life looks good from the street. Still, there is a gap between the person everyone sees and the person you know yourself to be. That gap always collects a toll, and we usually pay it in peace. The good news is that real style, the kind people remember long after the outfit, grows from two things: clarity and alignment. Clarity is knowing who you are. Not the version of you that lives in other people’s expectations but the actual you—your wiring, your gifts, your purpose, the convictions you would defend at cost. You can’t express what you’ve never named, and most of us have never slowed down long enough to name it. In my coaching practice, Purpose & PrincipleDriven (P2-Driven), the first movement is always the same: Get clear. See the real you. And, for people of faith, learn to see yourself the way God sees you. Alignment is living like it’s True (that capital T matters). It’s about closing the gap between what you say matters and how you spend your days, until your calendar, your money, your words, and your relationships all tell the same story. You’ve felt misalignment before—that low hum of restlessness when life is technically working but doesn’t quite fit. Alignment is the opposite sensation. When who you are and how you express it finally match, something in you settles. And when it settles, a recognizable style begins to show. Scripture gives it a name. A life rooted in love produces joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). Read the list slowly. It isn’t a moral checklist. It’s a style. It’s what an aligned life looks like when it gets dressed in the morning.

I’m sure you’ve met people who wear it well. Their peace holds steady when the room doesn’t. They keep a long fuse and a short memory for offenses. They are the same person on Sunday morning that they are in Monday morning traffic. We’re drawn to people like that, and we rarely think to ask what they’re wearing because their style was never about the fabric. Now hear me. Buy the boots. Wear the hat. Enjoy every bit of the fall lineup because fashion is a gift and this town does it well. Just don’t ask fashion to do a job it was never designed to do. No outfit can cover a misaligned life for long, and no closet is big enough to hold a constructed identity together. The best-dressed person in the room can still be wearing a costume, while somebody in an old work shirt is wearing more style than the whole building. So, this September, refresh the wardrobe if it needs it. Then do the deeper work. Get clear about who you are and why you’re here. Align your daily life with what you believe until the outside and the inside tell the same story. The style that shows up will never go out of season. It’ll look like joy on an ordinary Tuesday and patience in the school pickup line. It’ll look like you, finally, all the way through. The Apostle Paul understood this 2,000 years before anyone printed a style issue. He told the Church at Colossae to clothe themselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Then he named the finishing piece. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity (Colossians 3:12-14). You already have a style. Make it the style of love. P2Driven.com | Jesse.Hardy@P2Driven.com

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KEEPING DRIPPING SPRINGS MOVING FOR 25 YEARS

Kethley Physical Therapy is locally owned and operated and are the proud winner of the Best of Dripping Springs for the past 8 years. We deliver the highest quality outpatient physical therapy services through clinical expertise, honesty, and integrity. ORTHOPEDIC | WOMEN’S HEALTH | MANIPULATIVE MEDICINE | CERTIFIED DRY NEEDLING

Serving our community in two locations:

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THE BIG PICTURE Delsa Designs Helps Businesses Express Who They Are Through Branding, Murals, and Thoughtfully Designed Spaces

ARTICLE BY MEGAN EWING PHOTOGRAPHY BY IRIS CASTRO, BRITTANY SUDWISCHER, GEORGES SCHEMAGIN

M AK E R’S ST U D IO | ARTS + CU LT U RE

Before customers order a cup of coffee, browse a boutique, or sit down for dinner, they’ve already formed an impression. It’s in the mural on the wall, the logo on the front door, the hand-painted sign that welcomes them inside, and the atmosphere that makes a space feel distinctly its own.

For Ashley White and Shaurir Anand, founders of Delsa Designs, those first impressions aren’t simply aesthetic—they’re an opportunity to tell a story. While the Dripping Springs-based creative studio is perhaps best known for its murals, the pair sees their work as something much broader. Through branding, hand-painted signage, environmental design, interior decor, and public art, they help businesses translate their vision into spaces that feel authentic to both owners and customers. The journey began in 2013 when White left a career as a university advisor to pursue the creative work she’d always been drawn to. What started with hand-lettered restaurant menu boards gradually expanded into custom signs, murals, and branding projects, each one opening the door to another. “I was expecting everyone to say no,” White recalls of those early days. “But everyone pretty much said yes.” Years later, a branding project for a tea company introduced her to Anand. What began as a creative collaboration evolved into both a business partnership and, eventually, a life together. Today, the couple calls Dripping Springs home and continues to grow Delsa Designs while serving clients throughout Texas and beyond. CONTINUED >

“If your business is a person, who are they? What would they wear? What would their playlist be?” - Ashley White

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“We’re not just saying, ‘Here’s my art style—let me put it in your restaurant.’ We’re helping business owners tell their story.”

M AK E R’S ST U D IO | ARTS + CU LT U RE

EVERY BUSINESS HAS A STORY

Ask White what inspires a project, and she rarely begins by talking about color palettes or paint. Instead, she starts with questions. “Who are you? Why did you start this restaurant?” she asks clients. “We’re not just saying, ‘Here’s my art style—let me put it in your restaurant,’” White says. “We’re helping business owners tell their story.” That philosophy has become the foundation of Delsa Designs. Rather than applying a signature artistic style to every project, the team tailors each design to reflect the personality of the business itself. “If your business is a person,” White says, “who are they? What would they wear? What would their playlist be?”

Those answers influence everything from murals and logos to furniture selection and interior decor, creating spaces that feel intentional instead of interchangeable.

MORE THAN MURALS

Although murals often become the most visible part of their work, they’re rarely the beginning. For one cafe project, Delsa Designs developed the branding, designed the interiors, sourced furniture and decor, and created murals that reflected the owner’s multigenerational connection to the coffee industry. Every room contributed to the same narrative, allowing customers to experience the story as they moved through the space. For White and Anand, that’s the difference thoughtful design can make.

Twisted X Brewing Company

Bonfire Studio

“A lot of people make pizza,” Anand says. “But you have your favorite pizza place for a reason.” The same is true, he believes, for nearly every business. Visual identity isn’t simply decoration. It’s an extension of what a business stands for and one more way to connect with customers long before a conversation begins.

CREATING COMMUNITY THROUGH DESIGN

Now settled in Dripping Springs, White and Anand say the community has become central to both their personal lives and their creative vision. “We’ve both lived in so many places,” Anand says, “but when we settled in Dripping we knew this was home.” That sense of belonging shapes the projects they hope to bring to the area—from helping local businesses develop memorable identities to pursuing future public art that celebrates the community itself. One of their favorite moments came after installing a mural for Twisted X Brewing Company. As visitors

stopped to photograph the finished piece, the brewery’s owner remarked that it looked as though it had always belonged there. For the artists, that’s the ultimate compliment. “It’s not just throwing paint on a wall,” White says. “It’s really hard work. But what makes it fulfilling is the meaning behind it.” Whether they’re designing a restaurant, refreshing an office, or envisioning a community mural, the goal remains the same: Create places that feel authentic to the people who use them every day. “These people are our neighbors,” White says. “That’s our service to them. That’s our gift to them—using our talents and experience to help them tell their story.” As Dripping Springs continues to grow, Delsa Designs hopes those stories become woven into the character of the community itself—one thoughtful space, one meaningful detail and, sometimes, one mural at a time. DelsaDesigns.com | @delsa_designs

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ARTICLE BY KRISTI SELLERS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY IRIS CASTRO

FERRARI AMALFI

AU TO C LU B | AUTO + MARIN E

FERRARI OF AUSTIN INTRODUCES A NEW E XPRESSION OF MODERN LUXURY

In Austin, luxury rarely announces itself in a whisper. It arrives with confidence, individuality, and an unmistakable sense of occasion. The new Ferrari Amalfi fits naturally into that landscape—a contemporary grand tourer created for drivers who want exhilarating performance without leaving elegance or everyday enjoyment behind. The front-mid-engine 2+2 coupe represents a modern expression of Ferrari design. Its long, sculpted bonnet, clean surfaces, and streamlined profile give the Amalfi a refined presence, while its launch color, Verde Costiera, draws inspiration from sunlight reflecting across the waters of Italy’s Amalfi Coast. Beneath that polished exterior sits a 640-horsepower twin-turbocharged V-8 engine paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The Amalfi can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 3.3 seconds, yet Ferrari designed it to feel equally suited to an unhurried weekend escape.

According to Taylor Morris, marketing manager at Ferrari of Austin, the Ferrari Amalfi pairs exhilarating performance with everyday usability. “For our clients in Central Texas, where scenic Hill Country roads are just minutes away, the Amalfi is perfectly suited to long weekend drives, spontaneous road trips, and everything in between,” he says. “It delivers the emotion and performance expected of a Ferrari while offering a level of refinement that makes every journey just as rewarding as the destination.” That balance is central to the Amalfi’s appeal. This is a Ferrari built not simply to be admired, but to become part of its owner’s life. Its 2+2 configuration adds versatility, while the dual-cockpit cabin surrounds driver and passenger with thoughtful technology. A digital instrument cluster, central touchscreen and passenger display create a connected experience without diminishing the sense that driving remains the main event. CONTINUED >

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AU TO C LU B | AUTO + MARIN E

“FOR OUR CLIENTS IN CENTRAL TEXAS, WHERE SCENIC HILL COUNTRY ROADS ARE JUST MINUTES AWAY, THE AMALFI IS PERFECTLY SUITED TO LONG WEEKEND DRIVES, SPONTANEOUS ROAD TRIPS, AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN.”

At Ferrari of Austin, the Amalfi becomes an entry point into something broader: a culture shaped by craftsmanship, shared enthusiasm, and memorable experiences. As Austin’s official Ferrari dealership, the showroom brings the heritage of Maranello into a city already known for bold ideas, world-class events, and an appreciation for the exceptional. “Owning a Ferrari means joining a community built around passion, craftsmanship, and shared experiences,” says Taylor.

“At Ferrari of Austin, we create opportunities for clients to connect through curated driving events, private dinners, vehicle unveilings, rallies, and exclusive Ferrari experiences. Our goal is to build meaningful relationships and ensure that ownership is every bit as memorable as the car itself.” The Ferrari lifestyle is as much about belonging as it is about performance. It can be found in the anticipation of a drive, conversations among fellow enthusiasts, and the personal process of selecting the details that make a Ferrari one’s own. Ferrari of Austin supports that relationship beyond the initial delivery through specialized service and the brand’s seven-year scheduled maintenance program. “The Amalfi is striking without being overstated, with proportions that are both timeless and contemporary,” Taylor says. “More than anything, I hope it inspires excitement, the feeling that every drive has the potential to become something memorable.” With the Amalfi, Ferrari offers a compelling vision of modern luxury—one that feels sophisticated but never distant, powerful but remarkably composed. It carries the romance of the Italian coast and the precision of Maranello into a distinctly Austin setting. More than a beautiful automobile, the Amalfi is an invitation to make every journey feel significant. FerrariOfAustin.com @ferrariofaustin

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Side by Side, We Built What Didn’t Exist. Haley & Christy built Haus of Jayne from a shared love for the plant and a willingness to take a leap. What once felt unfamiliar quickly became embraced by our community. Today, Haus of Jayne is more than a store. It’s a space where people feel comfortable, supported, and educated, whether they’re brand new or have been with us since day one. And that’s something we’re incredibly proud of.

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Home Again

A 1943 Dripping Springs Cottage Begins a New Chapter as the Welcoming Home of Danyale Keim Design—a Creative Studio, Gathering Place, and Thoughtfully Curated Shop

ARTICLE BY KRISTI SELLERS PHOTOGRAPHY BY IRIS CASTRO

O PE N H OU SE | HO ME + D E SIGN

“There's a balance between old and new that feels very true to how I design. Nothing feels overly perfect, and that’s intentional.” - Danyale Keim

In the heart of Dripping Springs, a vintage cottage has begun a new chapter as the home of Danyale Keim Design. The new studio offers clients a welcoming place to explore ideas, compare materials, and experience the design process in a personal, hands-on way. Danyale Keim and her team guide clients through custom homes, renovations, and furnishing projects. The new studio brings the many layers of that process together beneath one roof, allowing homeowners to slow down, ask questions, and see how individual selections work together. According to Keim, “I wanted to create a space where creativity, collaboration, and thoughtful design could truly come to life. After years of working on clients’ homes, I realized there was a need for a welcoming environment where people could see materials together, explore ideas, and make confident decisions without feeling overwhelmed.” The cottage itself became one of the project’s greatest sources of inspiration. Built in 1943 and home to the Haydon family for nearly 80 years, it has long been part of the fabric of Dripping Springs. Rather than transform it beyond recognition, Keim chose to preserve its original charm while thoughtfully beginning its next chapter. “One of the things I fell in love with was the story behind this cottage,” says Keim. “It already had so much personality, so my goal wasn’t to erase what made it special, but to build upon it. I wanted the space to feel as though it had evolved naturally over time, welcoming a new generation while honoring the one that came before.” That collected quality can be seen throughout the studio. Antique furniture is paired with contemporary art, rich paint colors, natural stone, and handcrafted textiles. Bold wallpaper appears on the ceiling, while leather, natural wood, colorful fabrics, and layered accessories help the rooms feel comfortable. “One of my favorite things about the studio is that every room tells a different story,” she says. “There’s a balance between old and new that feels very true to how I design. Nothing feels overly perfect, and that’s intentional.” The studio’s design library turns inspiration into practical decision-making. Clients can gather around a large table and compare cabinetry, countertops, flooring, tile, lighting, plumbing fixtures, and paint colors in natural light. Seeing those materials together helps clients understand the larger design story before construction begins. “Building a home is filled with countless decisions, and my role is to simplify that process while making it enjoyable,” Keim says. “The studio gives us a place to CONTINUED >

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slow down, talk through ideas, refine the details, and ensure every selection feels cohesive and true to the client’s vision.” Although the cottage is first and foremost a working design studio, Keim also sees it becoming a place for connection. Plans may include workshops, educational events, product launches, and creative collaborations. The studio is also available to rent on weekends for bridal and baby showers, birthday celebrations, girls’ nights, photoshoots, and other intimate gatherings. “I wanted to create a place where people naturally gather—a space that fosters creativity, meaningful conversations, and connection,” she says. Community members do not need to be planning a custom home or renovation to visit. Nearly everything displayed throughout the cottage is available for purchase, including vintage furniture, home accessories, decor, gifts, and Lindry Lab non-toxic laundry and home care products. Because many pieces are also used

O PE N H OU SE | HO ME + D E SIGN

in clients’ homes, the studio’s collection will continue to change. The cottage’s next chapter feels like a natural one. Once a family home known for its warmth and hospitality, it now welcomes clients, creatives, and the community to gather, celebrate, and be inspired. “I want people to know that the studio is for everyone, not just those building a custom home, planning a major renovation, or furnishing their space,” Keim says. “While it’s the home of Danyale Keim Design, it’s also a place to discover beautiful, thoughtfully curated pieces and experience great design in an approachable way.” Warm, layered, and intentionally welcoming, the cottage offers a fitting introduction to Danyale Keim Design. It is a place to begin imagining a future home, find a meaningful piece, celebrate a special occasion, or simply experience thoughtful design in a setting filled with personality and soul. DanyaleKeimDesign.com | @danyalekeimdesign

Meet Danyale Raised in a family of builders, Danyale Keim developed a lifelong appreciation for the art and science of home design, learning construction from her father and grandfather while her mother instilled a love for creating warm, welcoming spaces. Today, she leads Danyale Keim Design, where technical expertise and creative vision come together to craft homes that are both beautiful and deeply personal. A Dripping Springs resident for nearly a decade, Danyale and her husband, Ryan, are raising four children, giving her firsthand insight into designing homes that support real family life. Alongside her talented team, she brings grit, creativity, and heart to every project, creating spaces that tell each client’s unique story.

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STYLE BEFORE STRATEGY ARTICLE BY CONNIE CHANG | PHOTOGRAPHY BY IRIS CASTRO

WHY THE BRANDS THAT STAND OUT KNOW WHO THEY ARE BEFORE DECIDING WHAT TO POST

H OW TO | LO CAL SERVI CE S

“I believe that the best brands are uncovered, not invented.” No matter what industry they’re in, almost every business owner asks me the same three questions. “Should I be posting more Reels?” “Do I need to be on TikTok?” “What’s the Instagram algorithm doing now?” They think they’re asking about marketing, but often, they’re really asking about identity. While the questions are all valid, I don’t think they’re the place to start. After years of helping businesses tell their stories and build their brands, I’ve noticed something surprising. Those that stand out aren’t necessarily posting more than everyone else. They simply have a stronger sense of who they are. And that changes everything. One of the biggest misconceptions about branding is that it’s something you create. But I believe that the best brands are uncovered, not invented.

Your brand isn’t your logo. It isn’t your color palette. It isn’t the font on your website or the aesthetic of your Instagram feed. It’s the feeling people walk away with after interacting with your business. That feeling should show up everywhere, from the way you answer an email to the stories you tell online. When I begin working with a new client, we don’t start by building a content calendar. We start with conversations. “Who are you?” “What do you want people to feel when they work with you?” “What makes your business different from the one down the street?” I’ve learned that the hardest part of marketing usually isn’t creating content. It’s getting clear on what makes your business unlike any other. Once you have that, the content becomes so much easier. The answers are rarely about products or services. They’re about personality, values, and perspective. That’s where your voice lives. My favorite part of this work is that no two brands should ever sound the same. But my job isn’t to create a voice for my clients; it’s to help them discover the voice they already have. I see this play out with every business I work with. Danyale Keim Design isn’t simply creating beautiful homes. She designs spaces that reflect the people who live in them, creating homes that feel timeless, personal, and distinctly theirs. Triple L Realty isn’t just selling land. They’re helping people build a CONTINUED >

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legacy, whether that’s finding the perfect ranch, investing for the future, or putting down roots in Texas. Those stories become the foundation for everything we create together. One of the biggest shifts I’ve seen in marketing over the last few years is that audiences have become incredibly good at recognizing what’s authentic and what’s manufactured. Perfectly polished content doesn’t automatically earn attention anymore. Personality does. People want to know who’s behind the business. They want to see your process, hear your perspective, and understand what you stand for. Ironically, trying to appeal to everyone often makes you memorable to no one. Just like personal style, the best brands aren’t built by following every trend. They’re built by knowing what fits and having the confidence to wear it consistently. Of course, strategy still matters. I love a good content plan, and there will always be a place for analytics, trends, and understanding the platforms. But strategy works best when it’s built on something authentic. Without a clear identity, even the best marketing tactics become noise. With a clear identity, every post, every conversation, and every customer interaction becomes another opportunity to reinforce what makes your business unforgettable. That’s why I believe style comes before strategy. Not because style is about looking good but because the strongest brands don’t start by asking, “What should we post today?” They start by asking, “Who are we?” And in a community like Dripping Springs, where relationships are everything, that answer will always matter more than the algorithm. @conniec

H OW TO | LO CAL SERVI CE S

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Nice Hat

The Unexpected Journey Behind Saints Western— and Why Cowboy Cool Never Goes Out of Style ARTICLE BY MELISSA SVOBODA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SUMMER MILES

M AK E R’S ST U D IO | ARTS + CU LT U RE

“I can see God weaving this beautiful story together out of something that I couldn’t have manufactured.” - Derek Welborn

“I like your hat.” It may have sounded like a simple compliment, but those four words would change Derek Welborn’s life—ultimately leading him to create Saints Western, a Dripping Springs-based brand known for handcrafted hats, boots, and timeless Western style. Ironically, the first hat Welborn wore wasn’t designed to make a statement. It was meant to help him hide. In 2020, Welborn started losing his hair. It came out in clumps. First came one bald patch, then another, until the top of his head was completely bare. He was diagnosed with alopecia, an autoimmune disease that attacks the hair follicles. Steroid injections, creams, and other treatments offered little relief. To hide the hair loss, Welborn began wearing hats—ball caps, trucker hats, anything that covered his head. Eventually he bought a Stetson he loved and wore it every day for a year. Intrigued by quality hats but unable to justify the cost of a custom piece, Welborn decided to make one himself. He ordered a felt

blank and a single hat block and, with the help of online tutorials, he crafted his first hat. “It was actually wearable,” he laughs, “so that was cool.” Everyone thought it was cool. Friends and family members wanted one. Then people at church started asking for them. At the time, Welborn wasn’t trying to start a fashion brand; he was serving as a full-time pastor at Life Family Church in Austin. But before long, someone in his congregation insisted on buying him a complete set of hat blocks, and his church community hosted a launch party where Welborn sold about 30 hats. He was officially a hat-maker. Over the next several years, the right people began showing up at just the right time. Round Top veteran Clint Hough recognized Welborn’s talent and invited him to sell hats in his booth at the renowned antique show. Hough became a mentor, investing in professional equipment and introducing Welborn to a 100-year-old bootmaker in León, Mexico, where Saints Western’s boot line first took shape. CONTINUED >

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M AK E R’S ST U D IO | ARTS + CU LT U RE

“Western has always been cool. It’s just timeless and classic.” - Derek Welborn

Then came another unexpected opportunity. Grammy Award-winning singer Brandon Lake admired Welborn’s work and posed an unexpected question: “What if we built Saints Western together?” Joined by additional business partners, Welborn and Lake transformed a side hustle into a full-fledged company. Around the same time, Welborn had purchased a vintage 1976 Airstream with dreams of creating a mobile retail shop. So Saints Western went on tour, traveling with Lake to concert venues across the country and introducing the brand to thousands of fans. They even landed at CMA Fest in Nashville this past June, hosting a pop-up shop at one of country music’s biggest annual celebrations.

As Saints Western gained momentum, Welborn faced a decision. After 15 years in ministry, he stepped away from full-time pastoral work to devote himself to the business. “God was closing a door at the church,” he says, “and we stepped through this door that God had opened.” Only in hindsight is the path clear to Welborn. “I can see God weaving this beautiful story together out of something that I couldn’t have manufactured,” he says. “I didn’t know what the plan was, but I knew He had one.” And one final surprise. The alopecia that had set everything in motion began to heal. Thanks to a new medication, Welborn’s hair has now fully grown back—a reminder, he says, that

God’s timing doesn’t always match our own. “He brings all things together for the good,” he shares.

TIMELESS STYLE

While Welborn’s journey to Saints Western was unexpected, his love of style wasn’t. He had long been drawn to art and design. “I’ve always loved style and fashion,” he says. “I was the kid growing up who laid his clothes out the night before.” That lifelong appreciation became the foundation of Saints Western. Every hat, boot, and garment reflects Welborn’s eye for craftsmanship and style. “Western has always been cool,” he says. “It’s just timeless and classic.” CONTINUED >

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While television shows like “Yellowstone” have introduced a new generation to cowboy boots and pearl snaps, Welborn says it’s more than just a fad. Western style, he believes, has never really gone out of fashion. “It translates all over the world, and it has influence across all different genres,” he says. Welborn’s own interpretation reaches beyond traditional cowboy wear, merging classic Western with inspiration from the 1970s, military apparel, and throwback motorsports culture. Welborn is also an avid vintage picker, and many of his pop-up events feature carefully curated vintage pieces alongside the Saints Western collection. The brand continues to grow beyond hats and boots, with trucker hats, pearl-snap shirts, and T-shirts joining the lineup. But regardless of the product, Welborn is guided by the same principle: Make something worth keeping. In an era of fast fashion, he takes the opposite approach. Saints Western high-quality hats and apparel are made in the United States, and its boots are still handcrafted in Mexico using full-grain leather that molds to the wearer’s foot over time. “People want something that’s going to last,” Welborn says. “I think about legacy. We’re very intentional about that piece.” When he talks about hats, this philosophy is clear: They’re meant to be lived in. “If it gets dirty, leave it,” he says. “That’s part of its character.” “A hat’s supposed to be worn, and it’s supposed to tell a story, so live in it, go outside in it,” Welborn continues. “That’s what makes a great hat—it’s got the scars of a life well lived.” Today, Saints Western can be found at Round Top Antique Shows, pop-up events throughout Texas and beyond, and online. But for Welborn, the business has always been about more than hats and boots.

100 M AK E R’S ST U D IO | ARTS + CU LT U RE

“One of the things I love about the retail side is that we’re connecting with people,” he says. “I’ve been able to share my story and hear other people’s stories.” And although he is no longer a pastor, Saints Western has become its own ministry: “I’ve been able to minister to people in my booth at Round Top, and I’ve prayed with people in a pop-up setting. It’s been a cool way to connect with people on a different level.” These connections have proven that, like every hat, every person has a story. Welborn’s began with loss, grew through unexpected friendships and faith, and became something far bigger than he ever imagined. You just never know what might happen when someone says, “I like your hat.” SaintsWestern.com | @saintswestern

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The Style of a Smile The Best Thing You’ll Wear Today Won’t Come From Your Closet This month’s magazine is all about style, so let’s cut through the fluff and talk about the one thing that actually hits harder than any outfit: your smile. Yeah, I love a killer look as much as anyone—a jacket that snaps, boots that stomp, a dress that turns heads, but none of it lands if your face is dead behind it. A real smile? That’s the power move. Think about it. You have no idea what kind of chaos people are dragging around with them. The cashier might be barely holding it together. The mom wrangling kids

could be running on fumes. That guy alone at the coffee shop? Maybe he’s just hoping someone sees him. Then you show up. You flash a smile. And just like that, you crack the tension. You remind someone the world isn’t completely cold. A smile isn’t some soft, throw-away thing. It’s armor. It’s attitude. It’s something you wear like you mean it. Throw it on before you walk out the door and let it hit first. Not because it’s flawless, but because it’s real.

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY STACY BERG

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Here’s the deal: Your smile is like the best dessert you’ve ever had. You could hoard it, sure, but what’s the point? It’s way better when you pass it around. Unlike cake, though, it doesn’t run out. You don’t need to ration it or save it for special occasions. You’ve got an endless supply. And here’s where it gets wild: Kindness spreads. Fast. One smile sparks another. Someone who was drowning in a bad day suddenly gets a breath of air and passes it on. Before you know it, something that took you half a second has quietly flipped the mood of an entire room. The world doesn’t always need grand gestures. Sometimes it just needs people to stop being closed off. So here’s your challenge. Not later. Not when it’s convenient. Right now. Next time you walk into a crowded space, I dare you to own it with a real, unapologetic smile. Hold it for 20 minutes. Lock eyes. Be present. Don’t fake it—mean it. Watch what happens with the people you pass. People will react. They always do. Walls drop. Conversations loosen up. Someone breathes easier. Maybe a stranger actually talks to you. The whole vibe shifts and, yeah, so do you. Then do one more thing. Come back and tell me what went down. Did people treat you differently? Did your mood flip? Did you mess with someone’s day in the best way? Or did someone unknowingly flip yours? Because here’s the truth: Style isn’t about labels, price tags, or chasing perfection. It’s about presence. And the sharpest thing you’ll ever wear is a smile. Wear it like you mean it and watch what breaks open. Start first.

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L U X URY ME E T S T HE OP E N R OA D THE WANDERING SANCTUARY REDEFINES WHAT IT MEANS TO GET AWAY

ARTICLE BY MICAH WIENER PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHELBY ESTES

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R OA D T R IP | TRAVEL

Jennifer Vinson-Hill was doing just about everything right, but something still felt off. She had a thriving career hosting women’s retreats around the world, but the travel meant missing her daughter’s high school years. And after countless nights sleeping on a flat air mattress during those events, the adventure was beginning to feel more like a sacrifice. There had to be a better way.

Her fiancé came up with the idea: Buy Airstreams and build mobile hotels. Not a cabin or a rental house, but something that could appear on a vineyard, a lakeshore, or a private ranch ... and vanish just as quietly when the weekend was over. “People want comfort. They want to be outdoors, but they don’t want to give up luxury. They don’t want to give up something to get something,” Vinson-Hill explains. So they visited an RV dealership, toured a few different models, and walked out with two Airstreams. The Wandering Sanctuary was born. What followed was a meticulous refinement of every element inside those silver shells, complete with luxury sheets, coffee makers, snacks, lighting, and a signature diffuser scent. Outside each unit were chairs, string lights, and a glow designed to signal that something special is about to happen. “Your body immediately starts to relax,” Vinson-Hill says. “Then you walk in and see the welcome basket—you just know things are about to get good.” The first guests called her afterward and said they would never travel any other way. “They had parked it at the edge of a lake,” Vinson-Hill recalls. “Every morning they woke up with the sunrise; every evening they went to bed under a sky full of stars. I still get goosebumps thinking about that phone call.” The Wandering Sanctuary has grown quickly. Nine units now serve a mix of private lodging guests and event clients. The company provided lounge spaces

and VIP retreats for South by Southwest activations. In July, seven units went to Lockhart for Fourth of July celebrations and a grand unveiling at ProtoTown. The Airstreams ran fully off-grid on quiet propane generators, a self-contained village within the festival grounds. The business caters to an unexpected niche in football season hospitality, providing premium guest quarters for ranch and property owners hosting visitors for big games. “When you park one of these by your pool with string lights,” Vinson-Hill says, “that’s a serious upgrade. Your guests have their own separate space while still being part of your world.” The Wandering Sanctuary partners with RV resorts across Dripping Springs, Johnson City, and Wimberley, handling every detail for guests who want a turnkey experience. “We take care of everything. You just have to get yourself here.” TheWanderingSanctuary.com @thewanderingsanctuary

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Build the Kingdom campaign

sunrisechristianschoolhouse.org 512-500-7447 400 Old Hwy 290, Dripping Springs, Texas 78620

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ARTICLE BY ELONA APPLEBY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY IRIS CASTRO

How to Nail the Hill Country Look

WESTERN HERITAGE MEETS RICH TEXTURES, TIMELESS LAYERS, AND EFFORTLESS SOPHISTICATION FOR FALL

108 FASH ION F OR WA R D | ST YLE + BE AU T Y

This season, Hill Country style blends timeless Western heritage with refined sophistication. Fall 2026 embraces rich shades of chocolate brown, oxblood, moss green, warm camel, and soft cream, layered in luxurious textures like suede, leather, lace, and denim. The key to balancing rugged authenticity with elevated details is letting vintage-inspired pieces take center stage. Mixed-metal jewelry and heirloom pieces add depth and personality, creating the effortless layers that define the season. Start with a flattering, feminine long dress in a warm, earth-tone flower pattern, then layer on with a vintage fur jacket for effortless warmth and undeniable glamour. Slip into your favorite pair of classic Tecovas—leather boots that are equally at home on ranch roads or Austin’s city sidewalks—now available exclusively at Monkee’s of Dripping Springs. Elevate the look with sculptural Julie Vos jewelry by mixing gold and silver for a personalized style. Complete the look with a suede bag, a wide-brim hat, and a leather belt featuring a vintage-inspired buckle. Together, these thoughtfully curated pieces create a cohesive ensemble that feels authentic, functional, and fashion-forward. Whether you’re headed to a winery, a weekend market, or an evening under the Texas stars, this modern Hill Country wardrobe captures the season’s relaxed elegance with unmistakable Western charm. MonkeesOfDrippingSprings.com @monkeesofdrippingsprings

Behind Monkee’s of Dripping Springs Born in the communist country of Albania, I carry with me a deep appreciation for freedom, opportunity, and the power of reinvention. My journey to becoming an entrepreneur wasn’t linear; it was fueled by resilience, determination, and adaptability shaped by my early experiences as an immigrant. Today, I own and operate multiple businesses, including Monkee’s—a high-end women’s boutique known for its refined style and personal touch—as well as a marketing company dedicated to helping businesses tell their stories in genuine and impactful ways. Beyond business, my greatest joy is my family. I have been married to my best friend for 21 years, and I’m a proud mother of two sons and three spoiled doggies. From humble beginnings to bold ambitions, I continue to be inspired by the journey God has chosen for me, both in business and in life.

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SH E PH E R D’ S PI E A Dish That Embraces Authenticity, Warmth, and a Little Rustic Charm

I love cooking Shepherd’s Pie for my clients and family. It’s one of those comfort foods that always hits the spot. One of my favorite things about this recipe is that you can prepare it ahead of time without sacrificing any of its rich, comforting flavor. Who doesn’t love a savory pie that tastes just like Grandma used to make?

Traditionally, Shepherd’s Pie is made with lamb, while a version made with beef is technically called Cottage Pie. I chose to use locally raised Texas beef, but you can easily substitute ground turkey or lamb. We’re fortunate to have so many wonderful Hill Country farmers who provide fresh, high-quality ingredients.

ARTICLE BY MARISSA FISK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARISSA FISK AND KIMBER BROWN

110 C U LIN A RY CR E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

Ingredients:

Mashed Potatoes: • • • • • • •

4 organic russet potatoes, peeled and quartered 5 tablespoons of organic or European butter 1 cup of organic whole milk 1/2 cup of heavy cream 2 teaspoons of garlic salt 1 teaspoon of garlic powder Sea salt and cracked black pepper, to taste

Meat Filling: • • • • • • • • • • • •

1 tablespoon of olive oil 1/2 tablespoon of organic butter 1 pound of local ground Texas beef 1 small onion, diced 2 garlic cloves, minced 1/2 cup of diced carrots 1 cup of organic frozen or fresh peas 1 (6-ounce) can of organic tomato paste 2 teaspoons of Worcestershire sauce 1/2 cup of sherry cooking wine 1 tablespoon of organic all-purpose or gluten-free flour 1 teaspoon each of dried oregano, chopped rosemary, garlic powder, seasoned salt, sea salt, and black pepper

Topping:

• 3 tablespoons of grated Parmesan • Butter pats • Flaky sea salt (optional)

Directions:

1. Boil potatoes until fork-tender; drain. Return to the pot and mash with butter, milk, cream, garlic salt ,and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper. Cover and set aside. 2. Brown the beef in a large skillet; remove. Add olive oil and butter to the skillet. Cook onion until softened, then stir in garlic. Sprinkle with flour and cook for one minute. 3. Add carrots, peas, cooked beef, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, sherry and seasonings. Simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. 4. Heat oven to 375 degrees. Spread the meat mixture in a 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Top with mashed potatoes, Parmesan, butter pats, and flaky sea salt, if desired. 5. Bake for 30 minutes until heated through and lightly golden. Broil for two to three minutes, if desired.Serve with a fresh green salad featuring locally grown produce from your favorite farmers market. And remember—always cook with joy and love! MarissaFiskCatering.com | @modernmomchef

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SEPTEMBER 2026

events A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LO C A L E V E N T S

SEPTEMBER 4 TH

Family Nerf Night Dripping Springs Ranch Park: 1042 Event Center Drive | 7:00 PM Bring the whole family to Family Nerf Night for action-packed fun and friendly competition. All ages welcome; children must be accompanied by an adult. Cost: $8 per person in advance or $10 on-site. Bring your Nerf blasters to the Small Event Room. DrippingSpringsRanchPark.com/family-programs SEPTEMBER 5TH

Annual Back-to-School Rotary Rodeo Dripping Springs Distilling: 13740 Highway 290, Austin | 12:00 PM This free family event features fun for all ages, including vendors, a silent auction, stick-horse races, bounce house, kids’ crafts, snow cones, cotton candy, and more. Proceeds benefit the DSHS Scholarship Fund. BackToSchoolRodeo.com SEPTEMBER 11TH

Piano Bar Night at Hudson’s on Mercer

ELEVATE YOUR VIEW REFRAMING LUXURY IN THE TEXAS HILL COUNTRY

PREMIUM WINDOWS

ARCHITECTURAL DOORS

LARGE-SCALE OPENINGS

Custom-crafted for light, clarity & style

Grand entries & seamless indoor-outdoor living

Multi-slide & pivot systems that transfrom spaces

381 West Mercer Street | 8:00 PM Don’t miss Piano Bar Night at Hudson’s on Mercer. Catch The Old Man & The Nipper (David Kyle and Ryker Pantano) on select Fridays from 8 to 10:30 p.m. The free, high-energy show features pianos, two talented performers, one stage, and your favorite song requests. HudsonsOnMercer.com

SCHEDULE YOUR PRIVATE CONSULTATION (512) 574-0014 | INFO@RANGERWD.COM | RANGERWD.COM 14155 W US HWY 290, SUITE 340 - AUSTIN TX, 78737

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Family-Owned Veterinary Care For Your Large And Small Animals (512) 230-1720 FoxVeterinaryServices.com 27008 Ranch Rd 12 Unit C, Dripping Springs, TX Hours: Mon - Fri. 8 am to 5 pm.

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An Evening Celebrating America Dripping Springs Ranch Park: 1042 Event Center Drive | 7:00 PM Dripping Springs Ranch Park hosts an unforgettable evening with Desert Highway, the ultimate Eagles tribute band, along with a patriotic opening performance by the Kyle Sisters. Sing along to your favorite Eagles classics while enjoying adult beverages and concessions. Buy.TicketsToTheCity.com/venue.php?org_id=890 SE PT E M BE R 2 0 T H

Buckle Race 2026, Shoot 5 Hog Heaven Sporting Club: 24905 Ranch Road 12 | 8:00 AM The 2026 Buckle Race features seven events throughout the year, with Buckle Awards presented to overall class winners, concurrents, and overall HOA. Series standings are based on competitors’ best five main-event scores. Enjoy 5-stand, super sporting, and practice courses. Golf cart reservations are online only. Registration and full details available at App.ScoreChaser.com/tournament-J0OHYQ3g0IyLY4 SE PT E M BE R 2 6T H

Night Hike at Westcave Preserve Westcave Preserve: 24814 Hamilton Pool Road, Round Mountain | 8:30 PM Experience the magic of the grotto at night as you learn from a local naturalist on this two-hour sunset hike. As nighttime approaches, you will reach the head of the canyon, where water falls along a stunning 40-foot cliff. This is a one-mile round-trip, moderate to difficult hike. Wear closed-toed shoes and bring a red flashlight. No pets allowed. DestinationDrippingSprings.com/events/2026/night-hike-at-westcave(2)

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It's Not Just A Garage Locally owned and operated by the Molander family, My Ultimate Garage, takes your garage from an afterthought to the ultimate statement space. Make your garage an extension of your home with custom details - flooring, lighting, walls and every detail reimagined.

itsnotjustagarage.com | 512.702.6622

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OFFICIAL FERRARI DEALER

FERRARI OF AUSTIN THE FERRARI AMALFI AT LAKE AUSTIN RESORT AND SPA Whether winding through the Hill Country or arriving in the heart of the city, the Ferrari Amalfi is engineered to elevate every journey. With breathtaking performance and sophisticated design, it embodies the spirit of driving without compromise. Schedule your test drive today.

6201 S IH-35 Frontage Rd Austin, TX 78744 512.380.0231 khumphreys@ferrariofaustin.com austin.ferraridealers.com

Ferrari.com