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With spring arriving in March, it’s the perfect time to open the windows, shake off winter’s stillness, and start thinking about spring cleaning and home improvements that refresh both our spaces and our spirits.
Welcome to the Home Edition, a place where comfort meets creativity and everyday living is celebrated.

Home is more than four walls, it’s a feeling. It’s where routines are built, memories are made, and personal style quietly tells our story. In this issue, we explore how thoughtful design, mindful choices, and small intentional touches can transform our living spaces into places that truly reflect who we are.
Inside these pages, I had the pleasure of highlighting 1626 Construction and capturing their craftsmanship during one of their recent renovations. We also spent time with Rew from Saint Montogren’s Florist, who shared his knowledge on plants, crystals, and scents that elevate any living space.
Hays City Lifestyle is created with you in mind, readers who value comfort, creativity, and connection. Thank you for welcoming us into your homes and for being part of our growing community.
Here’s to a fresh season and spaces that feel renewed.
IRIS CASTRO, EDITOR @HAYSCITYLIFESTYLE
March 2026
PUBLISHER
Jill King | Jill.King@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Iris Castro | iris.castro@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Ashley Brown, Jill King
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Iris Castro
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Lillian Gibbs
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas


Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
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15: @messinainntx 16: Ribbon cutting @Southernskyjewelryandhats 17: @budatxchamber
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We have such amazing, innovative business leaders in our community who are proud to serve you, our residents, with class and quality. We’ve compiled some of our top company picks for the services that might be on your mind this month in an effort to make your lives a little easier.
Ceremony Botanical Studio https://ceremonybotanical.com/ | 512.842.3360
Tarry Lifestyle http://www.tarrylifestyle.com/ | 512.855.1085
Junk Gypsy https://shopjg.com/ | 512.842.3322
Mercantile at Buda Mill and Grain https://www.themercantileatmillandgrain.com/ | 512.523.8668 Meridian http://www.meridianbuda.com/ | 512.312.4599
Haus Collective ATX https://hauscollectiveinteriors.com | 512.368.4389
The Love Your Space Place http://theloveyourspaceplace.com/ | 512.722.3088
Molly Bowen/The Wimberley Way https://wimberleyway.com/ | 832.964.4830
Want to suggest a monthly pick?
Beaubien Interiors https://beaubieninteriors.com/ | 817.905.6342
1626 Construction LLC http://www.1626construction.com/ | 512.663.5020
Burnette Builders https://burnettebuilders.com/ | 512.847.9040
Built by Schmidt 512.964.1402
Bask Development Group https://www.builtbybask.com/ | 512.842.7774
Office of Architecture, Neel Morton AIA ooarch.com/ | 512.847.7600
Balcones Architects https://www.balconesarchitects.com/
Kyle Landscape Service
https://kyleslandscapeservice.com | 314.892.1500
Pool Pro Custom Pools
https://poolprocustompools.com/ | 512.569.4763
Austex Sprinklers
https://austexsprinklers.com/ | 512.721.8564
P and J Pools
https://www.pandjpools.com/ | 830.237.6970
Simple Pool Solutions
http://www.simplepoolsolutions.com/ | 512.639.2947
Sparkle Squad of South Austin - Kyle https://sparklesquad.com/south-austin-tx/ | 512.354.8678
Proficient Glass and Mirror https://proficientglass.net/ | 512.563.4842
Creative Comforts Solutions https://creativecomforttexas.com/contact-us/ | 512.757.2366
Chuck's AC
https://chucksac.com/heating-cooling-services-in-buda-tx-chucks-ac/ | 512.453.2288
On Call Plumbing https://www.oncallplumbingatx.com/plumber-austin-texas | 512.288.1564
ARTICLE BY ASHLEY BROWN PHOTOGRAPHY BY IRIS CASTRO
For homeowners nationwide, the stories of experiences with contractors gone awry are all too familiar. But luckily, here in the Hill Country where friendly relationships with neighbors and community abound, trust matters and word travels fast — making it easier to find the right person for the job. Based in Buda, family-owned and operated 1626 Construction has earned the trust of countless clients; in fact, about 90 percent of their work comes from satisfied clients’ referrals.
1626 focuses on kitchen and bathroom renovations, full-home remodels, light commercial projects, and thoughtfully designed outdoor living spaces. Running the company with his wife Linda Baier, Rudy Lopez explains that what sets them apart in construction and renovation is that they don’t just build, they care. From the first conversation to the final walkthrough, their guiding principles are quality craftsmanship, clear and candid communication, and transparency.
Rudy’s story of founding 1626 Construction spans more than two decades and several chapters of hands-on experience. In the early 2000s, he worked as a laborer and apprentice for a well-known homebuilder in Las Vegas. Recognizing that building was his calling, when he moved to Austin five years later, he joined a masonry company where he expanded both his skills and his reputation. As opportunities grew, he stepped out as an independent contractor, managing residential and commercial projects in Central Texas. When the 2008 recession reshaped the industry, Rudy pivoted to working with a local builder, spending years collaborating with top architects, designers, and tradespeople on high-end renovations, custom homes, and award-winning projects. That experience gave him invaluable



insight into Austin’s permitting and building processes — knowledge that continues to benefit his clients today.
In 2021, Rudy and Linda officially launched 1626 Construction, LLC, with a clear vision: build a company rooted in integrity, craftsmanship, and genuine care for clients. Starting a construction business during an unpredictable time marked by material shortages and rising costs was no small feat, but they’ve grown steadily all while doing things the right way. They don’t chase volume. It’s all about quality, even if it takes more time.


“We treat every home as if it were our own and every client with the same respect, care, and clear communication we would expect from a contractor ourselves,” says Rudy. “We show up on time, return calls, and understand that we are guests in our clients’ homes. That responsibility matters to us. We respect the space, the process, the people.”
Even in his work, family is Rudy’s greatest inspiration. “Everything I do is ultimately for them and the example I want to set for my kids. My wife Linda and our kids keep me grounded and motivated, reminding me daily why we work so hard and why integrity matters.” The family is actively involved in Santa Cruz Catholic Church in Buda and enjoys giving back through volunteer work, another reflection of their commitment to community.
What Rudy enjoys most about his work is creating something lasting and transforming spaces where families will live, gather, and make memories. No two workdays are the same — from visiting job sites to meeting with clients and making sure every detail is moving forward with intention and care. That hands-on approach based on honest communication has not gone unnoticed. In 2025, 1626 was named Winner of the Best of North Hays County in five categories based on community votes.
For Rudy, his greatest pride isn’t in accolades, it’s in the relationships they build. “Many of our clients become friends, and that means more to us than any recognition. At the end of the day, 1626 Construction is about building through challenges, standing by our values, and creating work we can be proud of for years to come.”

With trends constantly evolving, we asked Rudy Lopez to share his best renovation tips for the community.
“There are so many tips I could share, but this one hits the hardest. People always ask what’s in and what’s out. Our answer is simple: your kitchen or bathroom is your space. You decide what’s in. Don’t chase trends. Let your home reflect who you are and allow your space to shine in its own way. This is the heart behind our slogan: ‘Whatever you envision, we can make it a reality.’”










There’s nothing like the joy and comfort found in the beauty of flowers and plants, particularly when we adorn our homes with them…whether a single flower we pluck on a walk and place in a glass on our kitchen counter, a bouquet gifted to us as a symbol of love or celebration, or succulents and houseplants keeping us company in every room of the house. Owner of Saint Montogren’s Florist, Rew Holmgren, has always appreciated how grounding and life-giving plants can be.
“I was drawn to art, beauty, and design,” he says, “and that curiosity led me straight into beauty school after high school. I fell in love with styling — understanding how small details can completely transform how someone feels in a space. That path eventually led me to flowers. The joy they bring to a moment — whether celebratory or quiet — felt instinctual to me, like a calling I kept circling back to. Saint Montogren’s grew out of that connection.”
As Rew thought about starting a florist shop, he craved a place that had a strong sense of roots and community, charm, diversity, and room to grow. He found all that in Buda, and connected with the Buda Economic Development Corporation, which offered the support he needed to ultimately build a team of passionate floral designers and plant people. “Creating a space where the community can come for their botanical and floral fix — a place that feels welcoming, creative, and alive — is truly the heart of what I do,” says Rew.
Saint Montogren’s offers fresh floral design, houseplants, crystals, incense, and thoughtfully curated gifts. They deliver throughout Buda, Kyle, and South Austin, and offer in-store shopping with grab-and-go arrangements available daily. They also do floral design for events and weddings. They offer flower subscriptions for both homes and businesses, a convenient way to bring fresh beauty into our spaces on the regular.
the mind and soul. Even a few fresh blooms on a bedside table or in a bathroom can elevate your morning routine. An arrangement doesn’t have to be elaborate — it just needs to be alive.”
“I love the idea that bringing something living into your home even something small can change how a space feels”
You won’t find crystals at every flower shop, but Rew loves these pieces of “earth candy,” as he refers to them. “Emotionally or energetically, many people use them as tools for intention — reminders of calm, protection, focus, or reflection.” They’re also just plain pretty.
Of course the essence of Saint Montogren’s is plants. Rew believes they’re an essential part of any home’s design. “Fresh flowers, in particular, are transformative. They do wonders for
It’s hard to argue with the benefits and beauty plants can bring to our spaces, but many of us may be daunted by how to most effectively use them in interior design or even how to keep them alive. When it comes to flowers, Rew reminds us that they’re not meant to last forever. Their beauty is to be enjoyed in the moment. And while keeping them in clean, cool water can help them thrive, his best advice when your arrangement starts to wither: buy more next week, and enjoy those! Plants are more forgiving and can bring life into our homes for years with the right light, water, and placement. “Aesthetically, I love grouping plants together,” says Rew. “Bunching them creates visual impact and mirrors how plants grow in nature, but scattering a few statement plants throughout your home can also create moments of calm and interest. It’s about balance and intuition.”
Rew’s passion for plants and beauty is contagious. A visit to Saint Montogren’s is sure to inspire even the tiniest effort to create intention and atmosphere in our spaces. “I love the idea that bringing something living into your home — even something small — can change how a space feels and how you move through it. That awareness is what I hope people take with them.”






ARTICLE BY ASHLEY BROWN PHOTOGRAPHY BY IRIS CASTRO
Native Texan with an extensive education in all things wine in Sonoma, California, Jaclynn Renée van Sant-Downes is elevating the perception and reputation of Texas wine with her brand Jaclynn Renée Wines. Jackie’s boutique brand blends technical excellence, authenticity, and community. Since moving from Sonoma to Wimberley in 2021, Jackie has been steeping the Hays County community in her passion for celebrating heritage, connection, and place through wine as she grows her business.

Jackie grew up in Houston and attended Texas Tech University in Lubbock, where her early wine education leaned more toward boxed white Zinfandel than terroir-driven bottles. Her palate began to change over holiday breaks back home, where her aunt was opening a wine bar, giving Jackie a chance to witness tastings of beautiful European and California wines and visits with wine reps.
After college, Jackie wasn’t sure what came next—but her aunt was. Three days after graduation, Jackie was on a plane to Sonoma for a winery internship in Dry Creek Valley. Within a week, she knew she had found her calling. She loved the physicality of winemaking, the science, and the rhythm of harvest. Her natural talent earned her hands-on cellar work, lab experience, and a post-harvest job at Mauritson Winery, which supported her studies in oenology and viticulture. “I was learning in class at night and practicing it all day,” she says.
While living and breathing wine, Jackie met Justin Downes—who worked at Comstock Winery—at a karaoke night. One firm Texas-worthy handshake sealed it. “I told him four hours after meeting that I was going to marry him,” Jackie laughs. Their first date was the next day, and they’ve been a team ever since.
As their family grew and life together unfolded, so did Jackie’s namesake brand, Jaclynn Renée Wines. Daughter Maddy arrived in 2014, they married in 2015 (after winning a $150,000 wedding in a sweepstakes), and son Dean was born in 2017. The kids grew up in vineyards and wineries, even helping “bless the grapes” at first pick before heading off to school.
Today, the brand includes eight varietals—a Blanc de Blanc, Chardonnay, Grenache Rosé, and four reds. While it began with California fruit, Jackie honored her roots from the start, with labels featuring Texas wildflowers, the yellow rose, and a girl on horseback.


In 2021, the Downes family settled in Wimberley when Jackie became winemaker at Driftwood Estate Winery while continuing to grow her brand. Her wines have since earned major recognition, including Texas Monthly’s Vintners Cup and Best in Class (with her Mourvèdre) at the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition—proof that Texas wine belongs on the national stage.
Next up is the Jaclynn Renée Wine Collective, opening at 107 Henson Road in Wimberley. More than a tasting room, it’s designed as a gathering space— featuring Texas wines, book clubs, artist showcases, educational tastings, and intimate events that bring people together.
Connection to the local community runs deep for the Downes family. Justin serves as Baseball Commissioner for the Wimberley Youth Sports Association, helping revitalize local youth baseball, while Jackie continues supporting Texas wine through her craft. The spirit of her brand is based on connection, not competition.
“Wine is never just about what’s in the glass,” Jackie says. “It’s about the people you’re with and the experience you’re sharing.” In Wimberley, that philosophy feels right at home—caring, welcoming, and worth celebrating.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Setting time aside to gather as a family around the dinner table is a great way to connect without the distractions from the things that pull us away from the ones we love. Both the Maple Harvest Salad and Beignets can be prepared in advance for the busy families on the go. Enjoy!



INGREDIENTS Serves 1
• 1 portion Honey Roasted Cauliflower (3 oz.)
• 2 oz. Pomegranate seeds
• 3 oz. chopped Kale
• 2 oz. thinly sliced Brussel Sprouts
• 5 oz. Maple Molasses Dressing
DIRECTIONS
Toss all the ingredients, aside from the pomegranate seeds, into a large mixing bowl. Pour in the maple molasses dressing and lightly toss everything together, until everything has been coated in the dressing. Place on the middle of a plate, in a mound, sprinkle the pomegranate seeds over the salad.
INGREDIENTS
Honey Roasted Cauliflower (Yields 5 - 6 portions)
• 1 lb. of Cauliflower Florets
• 2 oz. Salt
• .5 oz. Black Pepper
• 8 oz. Honey
• 8 oz. Oil
DIRECTIONS
Chop cauliflower into small floret pieces. Combine everything together and toss until the cauliflower is evenly coated, roast in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 mins.
INGREDIENTS
Maple Molasses Dressing (Yields 1 quart, 8 servings)
• 4.5 oz. Apple Cider Vinegar
• 3 oz. Maple Syrup
• 3 oz. Molasses
• 0.5 oz. Mustard
• 11.5 oz. Soy Milk
• 10.5 oz. Olive Oil


INGREDIENTS
• Chicken Breast
• Spaghetti
• Marinara Sauce
• Fresh Mozzarella slices
• Panko Breading
DIRECTIONS
Bread the chicken breast in the panko breading, then fry at 350 degrees F, until the internal temperature reaches about 170 Degrees F. In the meantime, slowly reheat the cooked spaghetti in the marinara sauce, once hot, set aside. After the chicken breast reaches the 170 degrees internal temp, spread the mozzarella onto the chicken breast and melt in the oven for about 3-5 mins. Twist the spaghetti into a nest, and place onto the plate. and place the chicken breast over the top of the pasta.
INGREDIENTS
Marinara Sauce (yields 8 - 10 servings)
• 1 #10 Can Crushed Tomatoes
• 1 lb. Onions, Diced
• 1/2 lb. Carrots, Diced
• 1/2 lb. Celery, Diced
• 1 oz. Garlic Cloves
• 1/2 oz. Dried Basil
• 2 Bay Leafs
• 500 ml Red Wine
• 4 oz. Water
• 2 oz. Sugar
• 4 oz. Oil
• 1/2 oz. Dried Oregano
• 2 grams Crushed Red Pepper
• 1/2 lb. Parm Cheese
• 1/2 oz. Black Pepper
• 8 oz. Tomato Paste
DIRECTIONS
In a large stock pot, preheat the oil until it reaches the smoking point. Add the diced vegetables and begin to sweat on high heat, once translucent, add the sugar and allow vegetables to brown and caramelize. Once Caramelized, add tomato paste and allow to brown. Deglaze with the red wine and reduce by half. Add canned tomatoes, spices and herbs, and the water. Allow to simmer over medium heat for about 1-2 hours. Transfer to a blender and blend on high speed until fully mixed, manually whisk in the parm cheese.
• 16 oz. Butter
• 32 oz. Water
• 32 oz. Flour
• 16 Eggs
• pinch Salt
• pinch Sugar
Bring the butter and water to a boil, incorporate the flour, salt, and sugar and fold over until the batter forms into a cohesive ball, with no patches of dry flour. Allow to cool for about 10 mins before throwing the batter into a stand mixer. With the paddle attachment slowly incorporate the eggs, one at a time, until the batter has absorbed all the eggs. Scoop into one ounce balls and fry in preheated oil at 325 degrees F, rotating the beignets for about 15 mins. Allow to cool and let the steam hollow out the inside of the beignets. Stuff with your choice of filling and sprinkle with powdered sugar and place on to a plate.
Chocolate MousseYields 5 - 6 servings
• 1-8 oz. Vanilla Pudding Mix
• 8 oz. Heavy Cream
• 32 oz. Milk
• 12 oz. Dark Chocolate
• 1/2 oz. Vanilla Extract
• 8 oz. Cool Whip
• 16 oz. Dark Cocoa Powder
1. Melt the dark chocolate into the heavy cream over a double boiler on the stovetop over medium high heat. Once mixed, allow 10 minutes to cool.
2. Meanwhile, mix all other ingredients together using a stand mixer until well combined. Slowly incorporate the melted dark chocolate/heavy cream mixture until well combined. Using a spatula, place chocolate mousse into a piping bag.

ARTICLE BY JILL KING
LEARN MORE: Haus Collective, a Design Firm and Showroom located in Dripping Springs, TX, creates spaces that work as beautifully as they look, blending elevated design with the realities of everyday life in Texas.
HELLO@HAUSCOLLECTIVE.COM | WWW.HAUSCOLLECTIVEINTERIORS.COM | 512-368-4389





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Books aren’t just decor filler. They add height, balance, and a sense of purpose to a tabletop. Choose titles that reflect what you care about. Subtle storytelling always wins.
Balance comes from contrast. Varying the height of candlesticks, art, and vessels allows the eye to move through the vignette with ease.
Form follows use. A small table and simple seating create space for conversation or pause, without excess.
Texture does the heavy lifting. An intentional mix of color and material can create richness without noise.
Structure comes from form, not clutter. Vary scale, keep the tones neutral, and let the shapes carry the moment.











Every woman dreams of an organized and beautiful closet space, but it often comes last on the list of places that get their time and attention. Follow our nine tips for transforming and elevating your closet. How you organize your closet will of course differ based on the size of your space, the size of your wardrobe, and the kind of life you lead. But applying these guidelines will result in a much more organized and aesthetically pleasing space.
It may seem silly, but when dealing with a small space, little things count. Hanging all clothes the same direction is a no-brainer for continuity in your closet.

Reserve the front and middle of the closet for clothes worn most often. For someone who gets dressed for work each morning at 6 a.m., work clothes should be at the front of the closet. Store lesser-worn items like formal wear and out-of-season clothes toward the back and on the upper shelves. A large mirror and counter with chair provides the perfect spot to select jewelry and finalize finishing outfit touches. While every closet is different, the key here is everything has a home.
Hidden storage is a game changer in keeping a closet visually clean. Tuck folded clothes behind closed cabinet doors if the space is multipurpose. The floor-toceiling built-ins in Keri’s closet contain folded clothes, athleisure and other items she needs as she gets ready each day. Tuck away the least-used items: Use hidden storage and the very top of the closet for out-of-season items and stuff only worn a few times a year.
Using space efficiently is important, but keep in mind every good design includes some negative space. For instance, consider adding built-ins on the long wall of your closet but keep the short wall open with a mirror.
Group clothes by kind first and color second. This ensures quick location of that favorite shirt when it’s needed. Bonus - it’s easy on the eye. Group like with like: Gather belts, sweaters, long-sleeve shirts, work pants, dresses, button-down shirts, jeans, shorts, etc., and decide the best place to store each item as a group (e.g., hang pants in the closet, fold and stack sweaters in a bureau). Working with groupings will help you figure out how much space you need and the best way to store each type of item.
The simplest and fastest way to make a BIG difference in your closet organization is to get matching hangers that go beyond the traditional plastic or wire hangers. And for sure ditch any with paper from the dry cleaner!
Alternate the way shoes are facing. This ultimately helps fit more on each row and provide a visually appealing way to display those prized possessions.
Everyone understands the frustration of searching for that one clutch when rushing out for the evening. Bags benefit from a space all their own. Get clear container storage for small bags and purses so you can locate and access them easily.
Lighting is everything in a closet. Gone are the days of dim recessed lighting being sufficient. Consider adding a statement lighting fixture like a chandelier or pendant that provides ample bright lighting to your space, no matter how big or small.


WHY USE AN ARMCHAIR WHEN YOU HAVE ROOM FOR A SOFA? SLIDE UP A STOOL AND COLORFUL AREA RUG TO COMPLETE THE LOOK. IF YOU HAVE EXCESSIVE WALL SPACE, CONSIDER A MINI GALLERY WALL OR A STATEMENT WALL WITH WALLPAPER TO POLISH THINGS OFF.
601 FM 2325 Wimberley, Texas 78676 | 7:00 AM
Central Texas’ largest outdoor market has been hosted by the local Lions Club for over 50 years. Browse 450 vendors offering a wide variety of goods, plus food, drinks, and live music. Pets are welcome on leash. Held the first Saturday of each month, March–December, starting at 7am. Free entry, $10 parking.
MARCH 5TH
La Verde Park, 3901 Burnham, Kyle, TX 78640 | 6:00 PM
Enjoy Kyle’s FREE community concert series, Jams on the Green! As the sun sets, relax with live music, local food vendors, and a fun, laid-back atmosphere at La Verde Park (3901 Burnham) from 6–9 p.m. Bring lawn chairs and enjoy a great evening with friends, family, and neighbors.
MARCH 7TH
Buda City Park Pavilion, 204 San Antonio St, Buda, TX 78610 | 10:00 AM
From custom builds to lifted carts, where car culture collides with cart culture. Enjoy vendors, food, entertainment, and cash prizes— including Best in Show.
MARCH 7TH
Shady Llama, 18325 Ranch Rd 12, Wimberley, TX 78676 | 1:00 PM
Join Texas State University’s Daniel-Bucklin Biology Education Research Group for a FREE, come-and-go afternoon of science fun! Enjoy hands-on lessons, crafts, games, and guided nature explorations led by our Research Rangers. Perfect for 5th graders, families, and friendly pets. Special Ranger-led nature walks happen on the hour don’t miss it!
MARCH 10TH
Kyle Public Library, 550 Scott St, Kyle, TX 78640, USA | 6:00 PM
Looking for a place to work on your handcrafting hobby alongside fellow makers? Handcrafting Hour is a monthly gathering open to all skill levels and craft types—from sewing and knitting to embroidery, crochet, felting, and more. Stay inspired, share ideas, and keep projects moving. Recommended for ages 12+.
MARCH 13TH
9100 Decker Lake Rd, Austin, TX 78724 | 8:30 AM
Saddle up for the Austin Rodeo! Enjoy thrilling rodeo action, live concerts, carnival rides, livestock shows, and classic fair food. Fun for all ages, this iconic Texas tradition brings nonstop excitement, big entertainment, and unforgettable moments. Don’t miss your chance to experience one of Austin’s most beloved events!


