Fayetteville, AR February 2026

FOU ND HERE, BUILT HERE, LOVED HERE

STYLE + BEAUTY

FOOD + BEVERAGE IN BLOOM FLORAL GOES FROM FARM TO VASE

ENTERTAINMENT

TOUR BLOCK STREET WITH, NATURAL STATE AESTHETICS

THE ART OF GATHERING WITH CUCINA CONCEPTS

Elle & Interiors.Ivy

Your home deserves the best. Your home deserves the best.

Stephanie Bowen

Planning a new build or remodel of your home can be overwhelming, to say the least….We exist to walk alongside of you, carrying the load and delivering results, so that you don’t have to. Think of us as your trusted guide from start to finish.

LOVING YOUR HOME LOVING YOUR HOME

“Interior design goes beyond aesthetics; it creates spaces that nurture the soul and enhance mental well-being, transforming lives from within ”

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design team

It All Started With A Visit

Dear Fayetteville,

Welcome to our February 2026 Love Local issue of our publication. This theme leads me to think about the greatest joy we experience as humans, the ability to love and to be loved in return. That simple truth grounds so much of how we live, lead, and connect with each other. I first fell in love with Fayetteville back in 2012, visiting from Kansas City to see my brother who was studying at the University. From the start, I was drawn in by the southern-town charm, the walkability, the creative energy, and the undeniable sense that something was happening here. The opportunities in Northwest Arkansas were clear, but even more so was the warmth of the people. Since then, this city has shaped my life in the most meaningful ways and I desire to do my best to love it well in return.

Loving local shows up in how we gather, how we serve, and how we invest in the people and places around us. Love Local isn’t just a theme it’s a way of life here, and if I can tell anything specifically there is a Fayetteville way of loving well. We did our best to embody this theme with the stories featured within our pages and hope it stirs a sense of community joy within your heart.

Inside this issue, we start with the new Moxy Hotel that is bringing bold character to the  South Yards development and fresh energy to Fayetteville’s hospitality scene. We explore the evolution of the Warehouse District, a soon to be buzzing corridor between Fayetteville / Springdale with art, food, and design.  In Bloom Floral inspires connection through Anna’s “Build Your Own Bouquet” experience, perfect for creating something personal and heartfelt this season. Our friends at Natural State Aesthetics will give us a local guide to loving the city well with a night out on Block St. My wife Payton shares her vision for Cucina Concepts, where pasta-making becomes a gathering point for friends, stories, and good wine. And we highlight Jennifer Irwin and Lauren Shinall, the new leadership team bringing fresh vision to the Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce  and the Fayetteville business scene.

This issue is a celebration of love for neighbors, for craft, and for the community we get to call home. I hope you feel connected, inspired, and grateful to be right here.

Thank you,

February 2026

PUBLISHER

Gavin Magee | gavin.magee@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Sydney Sullivan | sydney.sullivan@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Clay Ridgeway | clay.ridgeway@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Kate Gryder | kategryder@outlook.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Sydney Sullivan, Will Newton, Hailey Smith, Meredith Pinkston, Bo Simpson

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Meredith Mashburn, Emma Nelson, Hone Creative

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe

LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

GAVIN MAGEE, PUBLISHER

WILDBRUSH REVIVAL

Q . Is laser hair removal permanent?

A . Laser hair removal significantly reduces hair growth Most clients notice smoother skin with finer slower regrowth after a series of treatments

Does it hurt? A . Q .

Most clients describe it as a quick snap or warm sensation that is tolerable We also use cooling technology to maximize comfort

Can all skin types get laser hair removal? Q . A . Q . A .

Yes! Laser hair removal can be safely performed on many skin types using advanced technology Because every skin and hair type is unique, we recommend a personalized consultation to ensure the safest and most effective treatment plan for you.

What areas can be treated?

Laser hair removal can be performed on most areas of the body, including the face, underarms, bikini, legs, arms, chest, and back. Q . A

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: A first look inside the new Presley Paige location, where thoughtful design meets Fayetteville style. 2: Cassie and Baron of Natural State Aesthetics admire artwork from a Bold Collab. 3: Friends enjoy an Arsaga’s latte and Eden’s bouquet while wearing Set Apart apparel. 4: A Valentine’s-inspired seasonal drink from Locals Coffee, perfect for sipping and celebrating love. 5: look inside the brand-new Faymosa Restaurant, bringing fresh flavors to Fayetteville’s dining scene. 6: Sweet Valentine’s Day cookies from Rick’s Bakery, a Fayetteville classic made with love. 7: Spring arrives on Dickson Street as locals gather on the patio at Dickson Street Pub.

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Every patient’s journey starts with a face-to-face consultation to determine issues and set goals. Advanced diagnostics including PNOE VO2 max metabolic testing—a powerful assessment of oxygen usage, calorie burn, and metabolic efficiency—and DEXA Scan, the gold standard for analyzing fat, muscle, and bone composition can be performed to help clients understand their bodies at a deeper level. With this data, customized wellness plans, including nutrition and work out plans can be created specific to each client’s needs.

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In Bentonville, Premier Dermatology, Aesthetics & Wellness has become the destination for those seeking a deeper, more holistic approach to health. Besides her board certifications in dermatology and laser surgery, Dr. Clifton is board certified in integrative health and antiaging medicine. With this expertise she has created a comprehensive wellness suite designed to help clients restore balance, optimize performance, and feel their best from the inside out. The skin is the body’s largest organ. To have healthy and radiant skin, overall health must be optimized.

Our renowned dermatology and aesthetic treatments continue to be a focus for every patient. Advanced skin assessments like Visia and Aura skin analysis allow our experts to create customized skin care regimens. Cutting edge laser treatments, advanced facial therapies, injectable neuromodulators, fillers and growth factor treatments are modalities that our experienced providers use to help each patient reach their aesthetic goals. Now, with treatments for weight loss, hair re-growth, metabolic balancing, bioidentical hormone replacement, sexual health maximization, and longevity, Premier has an option for all things skin and wellness for each patient.

479-273-3376 | premierderm.net

901 SE Plaza Ave, Suite 5, Bentonville, AR 72712 shoppremierderm.com | @premierderm

National Children’s Dental Health Month

In honor of National Children’s Dental Health Month, Fayetteville City Lifestyle is spotlighting Smiles Are Wild, a local pediatric dental practice dedicated to making dental care fun, positive, and stress-free for kids. Known for its welcoming environment and compassionate team, Smiles Are Wild helps children build healthy habits and confident smiles from an early age, setting the foundation for a lifetime of strong oral health.

Sip and Wick Date Night

Heirloom Candle Bar invites couples to enjoy a creative Date Night CandleMaking Experience, perfect for a relaxed and memorable evening together. Guests will design custom candles by choosing their own scents and colors in a welcoming, laid-back setting. Light bites and alcoholic drinks are provided, and no prior experience is needed. Each attendee leaves with a handcrafted candle, making it a fun and meaningful way to connect and create something special.

Photography by @heirloomcandlebar_fay

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Gal-entine's Flower Arranging

Join In Bloom Floral Company's hands-on Floral Design Workshop on February 13 from 6–7:30 p.m. in Springdale! Led by the company’s owner, Anna, the class explores floral composition using Pantone’s Color of the Year, Cloud Dancer, paired with red or pink accents. Guests of all skill levels will create a seasonal arrangement to take home while enjoying light snacks and refreshments!

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Meet Your Trusted NWA Real Estate Expert working with all buyers and sellers in the NWA market

I have been a realtor in the NWA community for many years and work as an executive broker in the Collier and Associates brokerage. Fayetteville has been my home since 2006. when I came for college and never left. With a Marketing degree from the Walton School of Business and a deep love for this community, I’ve built a career helping buyers and sellers navigate the NWA real estate market. Ranked among the top 100 agents in the region, I bring expertise, market insight, and a client-first approach to every transaction. Whether you’re buying, selling, or investing, I’m here to guide you every step of the way. Let’s make your real estate goals a reality!

Cell 417.293.8975 Office 479.273.0662 collierandassociate.com 2909 Glory Drive Suite 201 Fayetteville, AR Bmargaretschlossrealtor V@ margaret_sells_nwa

MOXY FAYETTEVILLE OFFERS AN ELEVATED HOTEL EXPERIENCE FOR ITS GUESTS THROUGH A THRIVING COMMUNITY SPACE AND ITS SIGNATURE BAR.

THE “HANG OUT” HOTEL

Moxy Fayetteville is more than just a hotel – it’s on a mission to become a community hub for both its guests and the people of Fayetteville. Rooted in the South Yard sector of the city, Moxy Fayetteville, a Marriott Bonvoy-brand hotel, opened its doors in September 2025 and has since been providing a unique experience for those who enter its doors.

Unlike typical hotels, Moxy Fayetteville submerges guests in a more vibrant environment. The pet-friendly hotel is decorated with neon lights, eclectic furniture and offers a collection of 131 optimally-designed guest rooms to maximize comfort and functionality. Visitors also encounter a variety of upscaled amenities, including its large collection of games, a cozy outdoor patio, an expansive fitness center, and a schedule of events and live music for both guests and patrons.

“We would love for the community of Fayetteville to come out, have fun, and be a part of it, so it’s not just a space for hotel guests. At the same time, we want guests to feel like they’re truly experiencing the city’s culture while they’re here. It’s really meant to be a fun, shared space for everyone.” said Lauren Schieffler, general manager.

The hallmark of the Moxy is its bar – which also serves as the check-in booth for guests. Alongside their room keys, guests receive a free signature cocktail, draft beer, mocktail or coffee at check-in. By having a multi-functioning bar, the hotel further encourages connection between patrons and guests with the hopes that hotel guests will feel welcomed to spend their time in the common areas and have memorable experiences during their stay.

“WE WOULD LOVE FOR THE COMMUNITY OF FAYETTEVILLE TO COME OUT, HAVE FUN, AND BE A PART OF IT, SO IT’S NOT JUST A SPACE FOR HOTEL GUESTS.”

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From Farm to Flourish

There is something special about local florals, and the impossibility of replicating a single bloom.

One thing that has always been very popular in the South is floral arrangements. Northwest Arkansas, specifically, has a growing industry of passionate floral companies and local providers. There is something that is fairly new to Fayetteville, and that is a company that offers floral arrangements, along with wholesale ordering through regional and international partners.

Meet Anna Summar, owner and operator of In Bloom Floral Company. Currently located in Springdale, her studio is a place that offers walk-ins and appointments. What makes In Bloom so special and set apart is their eagerness to be a floral supplier, rather than an everyday flower shop. Anna explains that the company “connects people with the beauty of fresh, in-season blooms sourced from

ARTICLE BY HAILEY SMITH | PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMMA NELSON

local growers and trusted commercial suppliers.” Some of the key focuses for the team are to source unique floral products in a wide variety, all year round. Additionally, the In Bloom website features a descriptive chart of their product’s seasonality.

Sustainability is essential for Anna and her incredible staff to prioritize in every season. A few ways Summar succeeds in this are by sourcing locally, ensuring that any item is of excellent quality, and maintaining a reduced carbon footprint in the process. This takes a lot more effort and time, but it is what sets Anna apart in the floral industry. Being eco-conscious is very important these days and something that makes an incredible difference in the world of gardening.

Owner, Summar, has been around all sorts of events in the industry in her lifetime. Starting at 13 years old, Anna’s babysitter started a side gig working events and invited her to come along one day to help her and watch. After that night, Anna fell in love with the thought of one day having her own floral company. What Anna excels at is bringing the blossoms to life in the hands of her customers. Growing up in Missouri, wholesale floral companies were everywhere in her town. She was shocked when she realized not all towns have such helpful shops for those to go to for events and their own shops. Years went by, and Anna became an elementary teacher, but she began taking on floral arrangements at weddings on the weekends. After weighing out her options, she realized she should take the risk of morphing In Bloom into her full-time job rhythm. Anna knew she was ready to fulfill her lifelong dream, and she drew much of her inspiration from the landscape of the natural beauty of the Ozark Mountains.

In Bloom offers several ways for customers to get exactly what they need. From submitting custom orders weeks in advance to some arriving the day before they need arrangements for their event. Anna will always make sure their customer leaves happy and with something in their hands. One of the biggest services is the DIY experience, which would be perfect for the upcoming Valentine’s holiday, anniversaries, or just because. To begin this process,

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there is a form located on their website at inbloomfloralcompany.com. This allows you to explain your vision and get a glimpse at what is “in season” at the time you’re inquiring. Being the premier destination to “build your own” florals, In Bloom provides you with a timeline to bring your vision to life. Some different ways clients can build their own arrangements are through outsourcing to growers, building their order from visuals while on their couch or at their wedding venue, or renting out the studio with their girlfriends or romantic partner. From there, Anna allows you access to the cold storage cooler to preserve your flowers until they leave the shop. No matter which way works best for you, getting to build your own set of florals is something you will never forget.

“We take pride in our commitment to supporting native growers.”

A priority that In Bloom continues to make is having a solid stock and growers ready to help outsource, no matter the season we may be in. The local production season spans from February to October, with other top-quality partners ready to ship when requested. Each week, shipments come in from commercial farms, picked fresh before arrival. If you feel prepared, the company requests that clients submit orders 2 weeks in advance to get the most accurate information. For something more last-minute, Anna is ecstatic to help you via social media or in the storefront. The storefront officially opened in 2023, with hopes of expanding to a larger space very soon. The back of the store features an expansive cooler for the plants to stay in a regulated temperature space. Built by Anna herself and her supportive father in nine months, the cooler is a testament to the genuineness and ardor they have for this business.

For gardeners or wedding florists themselves, In Bloom also sells supplies you might need in your everyday workspace. Some eclectic pieces include pots, vases, floral accessories, and tools. These items can all be available on the website or in-store. Reach out to Anna for any floral needs you may have or inquiries about hosting a girls’ night at the store. The future is bright for In Bloom Floral Company and the impact it has on Northwest Arkansas.

If you select your own stems, Anna recommends not choosing what is trending online, but rather taking the time to look into what is most fresh and “in season”.

Katie

After eight years of perfecting her craft in Northwest Arkansas, Katie brings both artistry and intention to every appointment. Trained in Denver, Colorado and originally from East Texas, she and her wife, Cambre, have found their home— and creative community—right here in Fayetteville.

Behind the chair, Katie is known for precision cuts, effortlessly livedin color, and sharp men’s cuts. Her approach is all about creating styles that feel natural in everyday life, with just the right touch of bold to keep things exciting.

Katie is offering one free hair product with any service booked in February. Just mention this magazine ad!

Grounded Support for Real Life

Many of our clients are thoughtful, capable, and high-functioning- yet still feel anxious, overwhelmed, or disconnected in daily life

At Aligned Living Counseling & Coaching, we offer whole-person mental health care that supports the mind, body, and nervous system- helping clients feel steadier, more present, and more at home within themselves.

Support is available for anxiety, depression, trauma, prenatal or postpartum mental health, and life transitions- and it doesn’t have to feel rushed or clinical.

Aligned Living Counseling & Coaching Fayetteville, Arkansas

ARTICLE BY BO SIMPSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMMA NELSON

NEW URBANISM with CHARACTER

The Past, Present, and Future of Johnson Square and The Warehouse District

Just east of I-49 and north of Johnson Mill Boulevard, you’ll find a cluster of buildings with contemporary, arts-centric architecture buzzing with activity. This is Johnson Square: a multi-phase, mixed-use community. If you drive by the intersection of Main St. and Johnson Mill Blvd., you’ll see a six-acre division under construction right now. This is The Warehouse District.

Johnson Square will add over 90 acres of development to this area when finished, moving farther east, north, and up as buildings go vertical. Right now, the developers at High Street Real Estate & Development—the company behind the project—mark their progress, as the Warehouse District completes by the end of the year. Throughout it all, they’re preparing for “Phase 2,” the final and potentially most ambitious phase set to occur.

While the final rollout won’t take place for another few years, there is a lot to enjoy now with even more to look forward to. Some of Northwest Arkansas’ most sought-after eateries are at Johnson Square, with two more coming to The Warehouse District.

Pizzeria Ruby has been recognized as one of the finest, most authentic Italian pizzerias in Northwest Arkansas, hand-makingand-tossing pastas and pies from an open kitchen. Known for large, New York-style, 18-inch pizzas, the warm atmosphere rings true to the classic pizzeria feel.

Hail Fellow Well Met by Onyx brings a different, more experimental vibe to match the artistic undertones of the area. The design flickers and dangles with plants, split-flap displays, and patterned walls, creating a modern and welcoming feel. The interior matches

the food, with rotating menus offering everything from breakfast to dinner and coffee to cocktails.

The third restaurant in the area, Ozark Mountain Bagel Co., brings another metropolitan favorite: New York-style bagels. With a minimalistic, kitchen-home design, Ozark Mountain puts the emphasis on the bagels and contributes further to the welcoming feel of the district.

The best part about each of these places is their proximity to each other. With three of the most locally loved restaurants so close together and more to come, Johnson Square has quickly become a destination—and since it has gone three for three on restaurants, one can only have high hopes for those coming soon to The Warehouse District.

Beloved restaurateur and force behind Table Restaurant Group, Carl Garrett, will bring Floridian seafood to the area with “Table A1A,” while Juan Bahena (Tula, Taqueria Lucha) will bring Pacific Mexican cuisine with “Costa.”

This method of placing the best options close together represents the intentions of High Street Real Estate & Development. Building spaces where people and businesses can thrive and creating walkable, master-planned communities is at the heart of what they do.

Their goal for Johnson Square is to organize the essential ingredients any community must have right at residents’ fingertips. They view this project as the future of Northwest Arkansas, with The Warehouse District showing on a smaller scale what’s coming on a larger one.

If you drive by the intersection of Main St. and Johnson Mill Blvd., you’ll see a six-acre division under construction right now. This is The Warehouse District.

Ward Davis, principal and co-founder of High Street Real Estate & Development, made clear, however, that these are merely the “bones” of the community. While he and his team remain committed to building with intention, he insisted that it’s the people who give it life.

“The character of the neighborhood comes from Onyx doing Hail Fellow Well Met and Michael Robert Shaw and Meredith Butler doing Pizzeria Ruby,” Ward said. “On one hand, we try to design stuff that’s very compelling to people, but on the other hand, we want to have a more modest approach to development than ‘this is the developers’ vision.’”

The idea for Johnson Square began as the rough concept of a town center initiated by conversations between Ward and his late business partner, Morgan Hooker. Ward met Morgan in 2004, and about a decade later they decided to make an official move when the opportunity arose.

That occurred in 2015, and together, Morgan and Ward founded their company to take on Johnson Square as their first project. When Washington Regional reached out about putting up a building, they had no choice but to get started.

Jason Keathley, former co-founder and Vice President of C.R. Crawford Construction, had known Morgan since around 2002 and agreed to help on the construction front.

“Jason thought we were half crazy to be putting up a building in the middle of this huge field,” Ward said. “We planned the rest of the neighborhood and had a spot for it, but we needed a building fast.”

Things moved along incrementally. Soon, houses, apartments, and offices started filling up empty space. By 2021, Pizzeria Ruby and Hail Fellow Well Met had opened.

Unexpectedly, Morgan passed away in 2022 during the height of development. This was devastating for the entire team at High Street and those who knew him. As one of the minds behind Johnson Square, his legacy will live on in every building, planned space, and voice that brings life to the community he made possible.

“On one hand, we try to design stuff that’s very compelling to people, but on the other hand, we want to have a more modest approach to development than ‘this is the developers’ vision.’”

In November of 2022, Jason moved from the construction world to becoming a principal at High Street alongside Ward. Their working relationship can be described as collaborative with friction, in which Ward dreams up ideas while Jason tells him what’s feasible.

“Sometimes we have to make a decision to do something different,” said Jason. “And then we come up with something better.”

As The Warehouse District comes online and Johnson Square “Phase 2” sits on the horizon, there is much to look forward to.

Envisioned is a master-planned New Urban community with homes, apartments, townhouses, shops, restaurants, offices, and green spaces, centered around a public square for community events, all walkable and near to the broader NWA trail system.

But, as Ward already noted, the character of a place stems from the people, and Johnson Square invites the entire community of Northwest Arkansas to join in on the energy coming soon.

“It’s going to be a lot nicer than they think it’s going to be,” Ward said. “And a lot more fun.”

MEET US ON BLOCK STREET

Fayetteville has grown from a small college town into one of Arkansas’s most vibrant cities— and its “love local” spirit is easy to feel after hours. I sat down with Natural State Aesthetics team members Cassie Heymann and Katie Lundstrum to hear how they plan a night out in Fayetteville. They’re partial to evenings that support the same community that supports them. The word count of this article isn’t long enough to list all their favorites!

1) START ON BLOCK STREET

If you live nearby, Cassie says her favorite way to start the night is simply a walk downtown. Block Street is an easy place to set the tone—historic, lively, and full of spots that feel unmistakably Fayetteville.

2) PAINT (AND SNACK) AT WILD BRUSH REVIVAL

When you want an activity beyond eating and drinking, Wild Brush Revival is a lively creative option. Founded by former art teacher Leslie Wright, it’s part paint studio, part gathering place—where you can order appetizers or a drink and settle in to make something. Cassie says it’s been a favorite for the NSA team, and also for her kids, especially on Farmer’s Market Saturdays.

3) BROWSE PEARL’S BOOKS

For a cozy local bookstore with real personality, Katie loves Pearl’s Books. “When I grew up in Fayetteville, we had Nightbird Books,” she says. “When it closed, there was a void. Pearl’s filled that gap—new finds, old finds, and that homey feeling a lot of people missed.” Even a short stop here adds to the evening.

4) GET INSPIRED AT A BOLD COLLAB

A Bold Collab, co-created by Andrea Brooks and Claire Pongonis —is a new pop-up at the intersection of art, design and style. They so beautifully showcase local makers and rotating collections. Matt Miller’s studio, just off Block Street, has hosted the first and most recent pop-ups. Cassie loves being able to meet the artists and hear the stories behind the pieces. It’s a reminder that the Fayetteville art scene is both accessible and remarkably talented.

5) DINNER AT CALLE

Eventually, it’s time for dinner. Calle is a vibrant newer addition to Block Street serving Latin cuisine paired with great outdoor seating. The whole menu is filled with hits but the Pan de Yuka and the Salsa Trio are this group’s favorites.

6) CURTAIN CALL AT THEATRESQUARED

For NSA, a truly Fayetteville evening often ends with live theater. They love opening nights at TheatreSquared, appreciating the work of actors, writers, designers, and the many hands that bring a production to life.

As a Show Sponsor of TheatreSquared’s “The Book Club Play” (Jan. 28–Feb. 15), Natural State Aesthetics is proud to support a world-class theater that gives our community another reason to gather downtown.

“We all really enjoy living in Fayetteville,” Cassie says. “We’re grateful to have spaces like TheatreSquared that continue to foster connections, conversations and beautiful evenings together.”

ARTICLE BY SYDNEY SULLIVAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MEREDITH MASHBURN

CUCINA CONCEPTS

THE ART OF GATHERING

On a quiet evening in Fayetteville, there is a moment just before conversation swells and glasses clink when hands press into soft pasta dough, and the world seems to slow. Phones are forgotten, time stretches, and flour dusts the table like a soft snowfall. This is the rhythm of Cucina Concepts, a private dinner and pasta-making experience founded by Payton Magee, and it is less about mastering a recipe than rediscovering the art of gathering.

Payton’s love of Italian Cuisine begins far from Northwest Arkansas, in Italy, where she lived for a year in 2021 and fell deeply, irrevocably in love with pasta. It was not just the food itself that spoke to her soul, but the overarching culture surrounding it. There were no drive-throughs and no rushed meals. Coffee was sipped

slowly at cafés, dinners lingered well past the bill, and quality reigned supreme over convenience or mass production. Meals were not something to fit in between obligations, but an event that caused you to truly slow down against the everpresent hustle and bustle.

“When you’re kneading pasta dough, you simply can’t stop to check your phone,” Payton says. That simple truth sits at the heart of Cucina Concepts. In a world that moves at a relentless pace, she wanted to create something that invited people to move differently, to be present, intentional, and connected. When she returned to the United States, Payton knew two things:

1. She could not imagine life without pasta

2. She needed to learn how to make it well.

“NWA PROVED THEY’RE SERIOUS ABOUT PASTA. THE SUPPORT HAS BEEN REAL, AND WE’RE JUST GETTING STARTED.”

- PAYTON MAGEE

What began as personal experimentation quickly became communal. Friends gathered around her kitchen counter, then acquaintances gained curiosity, then complete strangers were asking to join, drawn in by photographs of handmade tortellini, golden egg yolks, and long wooden tables set for shared meals. The gatherings grew organically, fueled by curiosity and the universal pull of good food.

Today, a Cucina Concepts class unfolds like a recipe passed down through generations, familiar yet full of intention. Guests arrive and are immediately put to work. On a large wooden table surrounded by community, flour is poured, eggs are cracked, and hands begin the meditative work of forming dough. As it rests, the room shifts into aperitivo. Glasses are poured, small bites are shared, and conversation begins to bloom. Then it is back to the table to shape the pasta, fingers folding and pinching tortellini as laughter fills the space. Eventually, the work gives way to rest as the guests sit back and the courses are prepared and plated. A second course, the pasta they made together, and dessert close the night. What surprises Payton most on these nights are the moments of connection that unfold naturally. Groups of strangers who arrive politely reserved often stay hours after dessert, finding friendship in one another. “What brings me the most joy is hearing the laughter,” she says. “Savoring the moment and the meal. Just being present.”

That presence is amplified by the setting itself. Cucina Concepts is hosted within a thoughtfully designed space owned by Ashley Cardiel Interiors, whose eye for design transforms the environment into something both elevated and deeply inviting. Warm textures, layered materials, and curated details create a sense of artistry that mirrors the food being made. Local artwork lines the walls, bringing additional layers

of community into the experience. It is a place where culinary craftsmanship and aesthetic intention meet, where the beauty of handmade pasta feels perfectly at home among hand-selected design elements.

At its core, Cucina Concepts is built on rediscovering the art of gathering. We eat three meals a day to survive, but those moments deserve more than efficiency. Some of our most meaningful memories happen around a table. Celebrations, reunions, late-night conversations, and quiet moments of connection all live there. In an increasingly digital world, experiences that pull people off their screens and back into their senses feel not just appealing, but necessary. For those inspired to recreate the feeling at home, Payton encourages letting go of pressure. Hosting does not have to mean doing

everything perfectly. “If there is one area you enjoy, whether that is decor, drinks, games, conversation, or plating, lean into that,” she says. Thoughtfulness matters more than excess.

Looking ahead, Payton dreams even bigger for Cucina Concepts. She envisions land, a garden, and a permanent space where the community can continue to gather around the art of pasta. “NWA really does love pasta,” she says with gratitude. “We have been welcomed with open arms, and we have every intention of keeping this moving forward.” In the end, Cucina Concepts is not just about Italian cuisine. It is about remembering how to be human together. Hands in dough. Time unhurried. A table full of people who arrive as strangers and leave as something closer. It is a reminder that sometimes, the most nourishing things are never rushed.

ARTICLE BY WILL NEWTON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMMA NELSON

A New Day in Fayetteville

The Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce is evolving following new leadership and a rebrand.

The city of Fayetteville is going through some big changes. Alongside the recent appointment of Mayor Molly Rawn, the city’s first new mayor-elect in 16 years, Fayetteville has shown consistent economic growth as new small businesses continue to call the city home. This thriving business economy in Fayetteville is aided in part by the city’s Chamber of Commerce, an organization dedicated to enriching the business community through relationship building, networking opportunities and leadership training. Amidst 131 years of operation, the Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce has continuously evolved – and now, the organization is in its next phase of development.

In November 2024, the Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce announced a new president and chief executive officer: Jennifer Irwin. Irwin, a University of Arkansas graduate, experienced an expansive career before pursuing her latest leadership role. After almost two decades in radio, serving at KNWA and as a morning show co-host for Magic 107.9, Irwin eventually integrated onto the Fayetteville

Chamber of Commerce leadership team in 2011. By 2013, Irwin was working fulltime as the director of leadership for the Chamber’s leadership programs. When the former Chamber CEO announced his retirement, Irwin didn’t expect to submit her name for consideration – but when she learned there were no women vying for the role, she had a change of heart.

“Someone made the comment, ‘it’s really sort of sad that we haven’t had any women apply for the role,’ and I agreed. So, I started thinking about it and, I woke up one morning and went, ‘why wouldn’t I apply for this job?’ I am so thankful that I got the job, and I can’t imagine anyone else being at this job,” Irwin said.

Irwin’s decision to run for the coveted position was historical for the region: in 2024, Irwin became the first female president and CEO of a chamber in Northwest Arkansas.

With Irwin’s promotion to president and CEO, her former slot as director of leadership for the Chamber called for a successor – and Lauren Shinall, a former educator, answered the call.

“While we still have the same values and beliefs, we really want to move forward and show that we are moving forward.”

“I’m really excited to step into this role. Leadership development has always been important to me, and getting to serve and invest in our community in this way is incredibly meaningful,” Sinall said.

In this role, Shinall leads programming for Leadership Fayetteville, a program designed to inform and educate community leaders of diverse backgrounds and industries with Fayetteville’s

business climate and community through relationship building. The Leadership Fayetteville program works closely with the Fayetteville Chamber with the aligned mission of moving Fayetteville forward.

Shortly after Irwin’s appointment, the Chamber announced a total rebrand for the organization, which included an updated logo, website, slogan and online database. Additionally, as part of

the rebrand, the Chamber’s headquarters are relocating to College Avenue to promote accessibility.

“The rebrand was really important for us to do, for us to say, ‘This is a new day at the Chamber.’ While we still have the same values and beliefs, we really want to move forward and show that we are moving forward. We’re trying to make everything fresher, bigger, better and more efficient,” Irwin said.

Alongside an optical refresh, the Chamber’s rebrand emphasized building stronger relationships with businesses and leaders within the community for a “new sense of purpose,” according to Irwin.

“It felt necessary to say, “‘It’s a new day at the Fayetteville Chamber, and it’s a new day in Fayetteville,’” Irwin added.

Irwin’s appointment and rebrand of the Chamber shortly followed the historic election of Mayor Rawn in January 2025, and Irwin has worked to cement a thriving partnership with the city’s leader. Under their strategic partnership, the Chamber earned back an economic development contract the organization had previously lost in 2022. This contract further empowers the Chamber to collaborate with the city to usher in and promote new businesses through technical assistance and retention and programming opportunities.

“It’s been an amazing partnership with Mayor Rawn, and it’s been great that we were able to come into this around the same time and start fresh working together,” Irwin said.

The Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce will continue its evolution streak into 2026 with a schedule of events, including its Women of All Generations conference, as well as its dedication to supporting new businesses as they move to the city. Keep up with the Chamber’s happenings on Instagram at @chamber_fayetteville, on Facebook at FayettevilleChamber or online at fayettevillear.com .

Mojitos invites you to explore their exciting menu created from a collection of recipes featuring founder, John Montes' Mexican and American roots. You will taste it in their food that is freshly prepared every single day with many local ingredients. They offer specialties that reflect the culinary diversity of Mexico with a local flair.

February Around Town

What’s Happening in Fayetteville This February

ARTICLE BY SYDNEY SULLIVAN | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

GALENTINE’S CLAY DATE: CRAFT A SWEETHEART VASE

At Mount Sequoyah Center on Sunday, February 8 from 4–5:30 p.m., Galentine’s Clay Date invites friends to sip wine and snack while making heartshaped clay vases. All supplies are provided, and finished pieces will be fired for pickup before Valentine’s Day.

FROST FEST 2026

Frost Fest returns Saturday, February 7 from 1–6 p.m. at the Washington County Fairgrounds with more than 50 craft breweries and 150+ unique beers. Attendees enjoy samples, live music, local vendors, artists, food trucks and frosty Yeti vibes, plus a commemorative tasting glass.

CASINO NOIRE MURDER MYSTERY DINNER

On Sunday, February 22 from 5:30–8 p.m., The Golden Venue hosts a Casino Noire murder mystery dinner where guests receive roles in a 1987 casino-themed plot. The immersive experience includes a cocktail hour, hors d’oeuvres, a three-course dinner with drinks and interactive mystery fun.

CANDLELIGHT:

VALENTINE’S DAY SPECIAL

Celebrate Valentine’s Day on Saturday, February 14 at 8:45 p.m. with a romantic Candlelight concert at the Fayetteville Public Library. The live, multi-sensory musical experience under candlelight offers a memorable way to mark the holiday with music and ambiance.

Kids Love Us And Parents Trust Us

Your kids are going to love it here. A great dental experience for anxious children (and parents)

At PDAO, we know that feeling of dread parents get when they think about taking their child to the dentist. The last thing you want is a bad experience that follows your kid through life. That’s why, over the last 25+ years, our team has helped thousands of kids (along with their nervous parents) have awesome dental visits. No matter where a child is coming from, or how special their needs, we believe each one deserves a great experience at the dentist.

From our playground waiting room to our fun and friendly staff, we make sure that every kid from every background feels loved and welcomed. We’d love to do the same for your child. We offer pediatric preventative & restorative services as well as orthodontics for children, teens, and adults.

“Our mission is to provide exceptional pediatric dental and orthodontic care in a gentle and fun environment where kids feel safe and parents can relax.By building a foundation of trust, we strive to ensure that each child has the most positive experience possible.”

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