Little Rock, AR September 2024

SeptemberA Celebration of Style

Webster’s Dictionary has many definitions for the word style, but my favorite is short and simple:  a distinctive manner of expression .

As a writer, I’ve learned to be an observer – to not just listen to individuals’ stories, but to truly appreciate their mannerisms and surroundings — their style. When I think of the word style, I think of Webster’s succinct definition, which has nothing to do with fashion or trends. As Coco Chanel brilliantly said, “Fashion fades; only style remains the same.”

In my opinion, one’s personal style is innate. It tells the world who we are – bold and fierce, soft and kind, bright and plucky … It’s not just how we dress but how we express ourselves.

This month we celebrate Style – in all its intricate forms. Our cover art, appropriately titled “Stunning,” is by the immensely talented Patricia Wilkes, whose work can be seen at Art Group Gallery. Writer and Personal Stylist Kristen Ford offers tips for curating a closet that inspires confidence in oneself. Kyle Boswell, owner of Boswell Mourot Fine Art, shares how art can convey one’s style and bring meaning to a space. John Page, owner of Page Timber Works, gives us insight into the timeless style of timber framing construction and the inspiration behind his family business. Core Wellness Co-Owner Tisha Kelly tells us about the unique holistic and innovate approaches that are leading her clients toward optimal health. And Crain Ford of Little Rock shares the beautiful 2024 Expedition, available in multiple trims to fit any style.

So whether you’re looking to brush up on your wardrobe, add some beauty to your walls, embark on a new home build, begin a positive health journey or take a ride in style, we’ve got you covered!

We hope you have a phenomenal September -  filled with pre-fall fun and Earth, Wind & Fire playing on repeat. Most importantly, we hope you embrace your own personal style because we think you’re absolutely fabulous, friends!

STEPHANIE HASBROUCK, PUBLISHER @LITTLEROCKCITYLIFESTYLE

September 2024

PUBLISHER

Stephanie Hasbrouck stephanie.hasbrouck@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Chelsey Juarez | chelsey.juarez@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Alex Hardgrave | alexandra.hardgrave@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Alex Hardgrave, Stephanie Hasbrouck, Kristen Ford, Cate Marian

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Sarah Bussey Photography, Katie Adkins Photography, Hailey Faria Photography

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad

LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley

Resources to Help at Every Step

- Elaine & Loyd

Stanley is central Arkansas’ most trusted name in

and Laura Stanley is proud to continue the family tradition. A 3rd generation jeweler, she specializes in custom design, personal shopping for just the right piece, estate jewelry, or re-designing those pieces that just aren’t working for you anymore. Working by appointment is a

and

business monthly

Art Group Gallery’s “Between Two Worlds” Exhibition Opens Sept. 5

The Art Group Gallery presents “Between Two Worlds: Abstract and Realism Together,” an exhibition featuring Sean LeCrone and Shirley Anderson with an opening reception from 5-8 p.m. Sept. 5. The exhibition showcases the distinct yet complementary works of two talented artists. Shirley uses the ethereal beauty of pastel abstracts to encourage personal interpretation and evoke a sense of freedom and possibility. Conversely, Sean unites bold shapes and dynamic color palettes, bringing to life landscapes, figures and cityscapes.

AMFA Features

“Beyond the F1 Circuit”

“Beyond the F1 Circuit: Artistry and Speed with Williams Racing” presented by Stephens Inc. will be featured at the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts this month. This first-of-its-kind exhibition explores the intersection of form and function through the lens of high-performance design at Williams Racing, one of Formula 1’s most iconic teams. Featuring an exact replica of a Williams Racing car, plus a driver race suit and helmet, the exhibition brings the art of motorsport to AMFA.

Photography by Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts

Six Bridges Book Festival Will Be Sept. 22-29

Every year, the Six Bridges Book Festival presented by the Central Arkansas Library System hosts approximately 50 authors for free panel discussions, readings, book signings and other fun and enriching programs. In addition to offering an opportunity for thousands of readers to meet some of their favorite authors, the festival sends many of the presenters into local schools to inspire our next generation of readers and writers. To find out more about this year’s festival, visit  cals.org/ six-bridges-book-festival/.

the CITY LIST

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.

Boutique

Barbara/Jean barbarajean.com

B. Barnett bbarnett.com

Beyond Cotton and Beyond Cotton 2 shopbc2.com

Box Turtle shopboxturtle.com

E. Leigh’s Boutique shopeleighs.com

Men’s Fashion

Barakat Bespoke barakatbespoke.com

Baumans baumans.com

J Duke & Co jdukeco.com

Want

Mr. Wicks mrwicks.com

Rock City Kicks rockcitykicks.com

Curate Your Closet

ARTICLE BY KRISTEN FORD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARAH BUSSEY PHOTOGRAPHY

CREATE A WARDROBE THAT INSPIRES CONFIDENCE

““Not only is it important to like the way you look, but to appreciate the way you feel.”

Personal style has a powerful mind-body connection that can instantly change the way you feel. Studies show that the right outfit can make you feel more influential, as well as shift and enhance your focus and energy. The right outfit can boost your mood and productivity, just as the wrong clothing can blemish a moment or an entire day.

Kristen Ford

Kristen Ford is a Personal Stylist and Pearl by Lela Rose Stylist. Based in Little Rock, she serves clients throughout Arkansas, the Dallas metro and digitally across the country. Her services include closet edits, personal styling, luxury sourcing and shopping, trunk shows and 1:1 coaching. Pearl by Lela Rose is a NYC-based ready-to-wear clothing line designed for fun, fabulous and effortlessly stylish women.

Connect with Kristen @itsmekristenford

Curating a closet that looks and feels like YOU is life-changing. Dressing for your current shape and lifestyle is key to building confidence, and confidence is key to success in business and in everyday life.

Your wardrobe must project an accurate message, attract your desired connections and help you feel confident enough to command the day. The goal in discovering your style is to be comfortable and assured every time you walk out the door. Not only is it important to like the way you look, but to appreciate the way you feel.

Identifying and dressing your style creates positive feelings, so curate a closet of confidence and dress to feel your best!

If ever in doubt, seek the advice of a stylist. A personal stylist can help you develop your style or brand, build a wardrobe that works best with your lifestyle and save you time and money by sourcing essential pieces.

CONVEYING STYLE

THROUGH ART

Boswell Mourot Fine Art Helps Art Enthusiasts Establish Their Collections

Right in the heart of the bustling SoMa district sit the intriguing windows of Boswell Mourot Fine Art. The gallery displays one-of-a-kind paintings, photography and sculptures — something for every art lover.

Owner Kyle Boswell, an artist himself, has been involved in art since childhood. He began blowing glass at the University of Miami, where he eventually became the artist-in-residence for six years before opening his gallery.

His mission for the gallery is to showcase regional, national and international artists, which he feels marries his past work in foreign policy with his love for art.

In addition to bringing international artists to Arkansas, Boswell Mourot often hosts artist conversations to facilitate these connections. Learning about artwork by attending shows and listening to artists discuss their work help collectors connect with pieces.

“Since I’ve opened, I’ve just really wanted to show people what art is and the difference in artists and artists’ backgrounds,” he says.

Kyle wants collectors and art lovers to be able to recognize common bonds within an artist’s body of work.

He emphasizes that art is subjective, which makes it difficult to predict what each person will appreciate. This is why Boswell Mourot offers various art genres, ensuring everyone can find something with which they connect.

Also, collectors oftentimes look to fill their collections with works from specific artists or themes, such as Arkansas artists

or landscapes. This approach helps guide the collection, making it unique and cohesive, Kyle says.

“The main thing is just be happy with it,” he advises.

Through years of experience selecting art for his gallery and home, Kyle has developed a keen eye and an impressive growing collection.

“It would be difficult to live in sterile walls,” he says. “I look around at all the art in my collection as meaningful.”

Boswell Mourot Fine Art offers customized assistance for those seeking help with curating their art collection. Both Kyle and his associate Teresa (Tee) Sorrentino devote much time to discussing clients’ preferences and showing different pieces to understand their tastes.

“It brings us satisfaction to be able to work with someone and help them find a piece that they’re just crazy about that they want to hang on their wall and put in their collection,” Tee says.

Boswell Mourot Fine Art is located at 1501 South Main Street. The gallery specializes in contemporary emerging and mid-career artists, with regional, national and international works in painting, sculpture and photography. For additional information, visit boswellmourot.com .

ARTICLE BY ALEX HARDGRAVE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY HAILEY FARIA PHOTOGRAPHY

PAGE TIMBER WORKS UTILIZES TIMELESS STYLE OF TIMBER FRAMING TO CREATE SPACES THAT ARE FUNCTIONAL FORMS OF ART

CRAFTING A HOME

John Page grew up working in the family business of remodeling, but carved his own path in 2011 when he first learned about timber framing. He went on to create Page Timber

Timber framing has a unique aesthetic, with beautiful exposed wood and beams as the mainstay of these builds.

“In addition, it adds warmth and a feeling of safety,” John says. “As

“CREATING SPACES THAT REFLECT OUR CLIENTS’ DREAMS IS OUR GOAL, ALONG WITH LOVING AND SERVING THEM IN THE PROCESS.”

Works, which provides quality timber-framed builds to the community.

Just as his work started as a family business, family is a vital part of the story of Page Timber Works.

When John and his wife MaryAnn decided to build their own family home, they knew they wanted to use the timber framing method. As a gift, MaryAnn signed John up for a workshop in Colorado. John, five friends and five employees all attended the workshop and learned from the best instructors in the country.

He then completed his family’s home using what he learned and later completed dozens of remodeling projects for clients using the same timber framing methods.

Arkansans, we understand how concerning tornadoes can be. The integrity of a timber-frame home is much more resilient to the elements than a conventionally framed home.”

Every client of Page Timber Works is treated like family, and much care goes into making sure the project is completed precisely the way the client wants it to be.

“We strive to develop good relationships with our clients on each project,” John says. “We get clear visions from the client in order to make the building process as smooth as possible.”

In addition to complete house builds, the company does kitchen remodels, deck builds and any other project one can dream up.

CONTINUED >

“Our core values we believe in are what will last long term, from the quality of materials to the excellence of our craftsmanship,” John says. “In the long run, we believe this is the best investment you can make.”

Page Timber Works soon will expand into high-end furniture with its newly formed Michael Ryan Co. The new business will create furniture pieces that essentially are functional forms of art made from exotic Arkansas woods.

Named after John’s brother, Michael, who died by suicide in 2011, the business will donate a portion of its proceeds to suicide prevention and mental health awareness in Michael’s memory.

Whether he’s building homes or designing furniture that pays homage to a beloved family member, every aspect of John’s work is intentional and reflects his devotion to his family and his craft.

“From design to finished details, we are mindful in our craft,” John says. “Creating spaces that reflect our clients’ dreams is our goal, along with loving and serving them in the process.”

For more information about Page Timber Works, visit pagetimberworks.com

CORE WELLNESS IS EMPOWERING CLIENTS TO TAKE CONTROL OF THEIR HEALTH

Achieving Optimal Health Through Holistic, Innovative Methods

We emphasize long-term health and sustainability rather than short-term results, ensuring that our clients achieve lasting changes and improved well-being.

When Tisha Kelly and Dr. Michael Butler opened Core Wellness five years ago, their goal was simple: “To promote natural health and wellness through food and natural healing methods.”

Today, Core Wellness continues to grow in popularity as residents realize the immense value of proactively investing in their health.

“Proactively investing in your health and fitness is crucial because it empowers you to take control of your well-being and prevent potential health issues before they arise,” Tisha explains. “Investing in your health today is an investment in your future, ensuring that you can live a vibrant, fulfilling life with the energy and vitality you deserve.”

Core has helped many area residents reach their health and fitness goals – but the company’s approach is not one-size-fits-all. In fact, its motto is, “We don’t guess, we test.” Tisha says Core’s motto reflects its commitment to data-driven, customized approaches.

“We provide a range of diagnostic tests, including food sensitivity testing, gut health assessments, generic tests like APOE for macronutrient needs and foundational protocols for detoxing and addressing parasites,” she says. “Testing is crucial because it allows us to understand each individual’s unique health status, identify specific imbalances and tailor our approach to their needs. This personalized approach ensures that our interventions are

targeted and effective, rather than based on generalized assumptions.”

Through testing, Core Wellness helps its clients establish effective interventions and also educates them on their health and the steps they should take moving forward. And Core does all of this avoiding trendy approaches.

“What sets Core Wellness apart is our commitment to natural, holistic approaches,” Tisha reiterates. “Unlike conventional weight loss programs that often rely on medications, fad diets or quick fixes, we focus on addressing the root causes of weight gain and hormonal imbalances. Our programs are built on natural healing techniques, including nutritional optimization, lifestyle adjustments and mind-body practices.”

She says by addressing the root causes of the problem, clients can see long-term results.

“We emphasize long-term health and sustainability rather than short-term results, ensuring that our clients achieve lasting changes and improved well-being.”

Core’s holistic, natural approaches definitely aren’t boring. The company offers some of the most innovative therapies available to help clients reach their goals.

“Our cutting-edge offerings are designed to complement our holistic approach and enhance overall wellness,” Tisha says. “The cold plunge and infrared

The success stories and testimonials we receive are a testament to the effectiveness of our programs and the impact we have on our clients’ lives. “ ”

sauna support detoxification and recovery, while red light therapy promotes cellular repair and reduces inflammation. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy aids in healing and improved energy levels, and our vitamin D tanning bed helps maintain optimal vitamin D levels, crucial for immune function and overall health.

Together these therapies work synergistically to help individuals achieve peak fitness, accelerate recovery and enhance their overall well-being.”

Core’s ultimate goal is to empower its clients to confidently take control of their health, Tisha says.

“We aim to help them achieve optimal hormonal balance, sustainable weight loss and enhanced vitality through natural, holistic approaches. By providing personalized support and education, we strive to

equip our clients with the tools and knowledge they need to lead healthier, happier lives and reach their full potential,” she says.

And Core Wellness clients are doing just that.

“Many have reported significant improvements in energy levels, mood stability, weight management and overall health,” Tisha says. “Clients appreciate our personalized approach and the ability to address their unique health concerns through natural and sustainable methods. The success stories and testimonials we receive are a testament to the effectiveness of our programs and the impact we have on our clients’ lives.”

For more information about Core Wellness, visit  corewellnessusa.com .

THE 2024 FORD EXPEDITION

The 2024 Ford Expedition combines the best of form and function for a sleek, comfortable driving experience. With three rows of seating to accommodate up to eight, the Expedition is the perfect choice for families wanting to ride in style. The Expedition offers something for everyone with six impressive trim options.

THE PLATINUM

The luxurious Platinum trim offers ultimate comfort with its high-end finishes and high-tech performance. Continuous Controlled Damping (CCD) with Suspension Road Preview makes for a smooth ride. Satin and Aluminum exterior and interior elements and a Wollsdorf Leather-wrapped steering wheel with Pecan Euro stitching offer a touch of elegance. And the Multicontour front seats with active motion massage provide ultimate relaxation.

THE KING RANCH

The King Ranch trim adds “fun” to function. With its 22-inch, six-spoke polished aluminum wheels and unique King Ranch interior with King Ranch Ws

stamped throughout, this trim has a style of its own. Perfect for the music lover, the King Ranch boasts 22 speakers, including a Subwoofer B&O Unleashed Sound System by Ban & Olufsen.

THE TIMBERLINE

Perfect for the outdoorsman or woman, the Timberline has a high-output EcoBoost V6 engine with 510 lb-ft torque. It offers Ford Trail Control and 32-inch all-terrain tires. The sporty interior includes tangerine stitching throughout and Timberline logos.

THE LIMITED

With its LED fog lamps, headlamps, taillamps and signature lighting, the Limited trim stands out from the crowd. Other impressive exterior features include its 20-inch bright machined aluminum wheels with dark carbonized gray-painted pockets. Intelligent adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go and lane assist make the Limited a pleasure to drive, while the Panoramic Vista Roof, impressive B&O Sound System by Ban & Olufsen and active noise control complete the experience.

Crain Ford of Little Rock offers Ford Expedition in Trims to Suit Any Customer’s Style

THE XLT

The XLT trim offers practicality and comfort with its tri-zone temperature control, third-row USB ports and PowerFold third-row seats.

THE ENTRY-LEVEL XL STX

The Entry-Level XL STX offers standard SYNC 4 on a 12-inch touchscreen, four USB charging ports and FordPass Connect with 4G LTE Wi-Fi Hotspot. The XL STX also offers Active Grille Shutters, Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking and Standard LED front headlamps.

Visit Crain Ford of Little Rock to experience the Expedition in person. Crain Ford of Little Rock is located at 4601 Colonel Glenn Plaza Drive. For more information on the Ford Expedition or other models, visit crainfordoflittlerock.net

YOUR DRINK DRESS UP

THESE BEAUTIFUL BEVERAGES ARE SURE TO TURN HEADS

BLUE MARTINI

WITH FLORAL ICE CUBES

BOLD COLORS Fresh florals. An eye-catching shimmer. The perfect embellishment. We’re talking cocktails, not the catwalk. But like fashion, the art of mixology is full of ways to push the limits with creative twists on classic recipes, and unique adornments guaranteed to turn heads. There’s no reason your personal style can’t extend to the drink in your hand, and this botanical beverage is bound to taste as delicious as it looks.

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 ounces Absolut Citron

• 1/2 ounce Blue Curaçao

• 1/2 ounce lemonade

• 1 ounce Sprite

• Edible flowers such as rose, lavender, hibiscus and nasturtiums

DIRECTIONS:

Pour Sprite into ice cube trays and add edible flower combinations. Let freeze overnight. Combine Absolut Citron, Blue Curaçao, lemonade and ice cubes in martini shaker. Shake and strain into a martini glass.

Allow ice cubes to melt, gradually filling the glass with Sprite and garnishing the drink with beautiful botanicals.

ARTICLE BY CATE MARIAN

FIG + THYME

SPARKLING LEMONADE

INGREDIENTS: DIRECTIONS:

• thyme simple syrup

• 1/2 cup sugar

• 1/2 cup water

• 1 bunch thyme

• 2 fresh figs

• 3/4 ounce lemon juice

• 3/4 ounce thyme syrup

• 3/4 ounce Sprite

In a small saucepan, simmer sugar, water and thyme leaves over low heat for 5 minutes or until sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat and let the thyme infuse into the syrup for at least 10 minutes.

For the cocktail, muddle figs and lemon juice in the bottom of a glass. Add ice, 3/4 of the thyme syrup and Sprite. Stir and garnish with fig and a sprig of thyme.

SEPTEMBER 5TH – 21ST

ACANSA: Arts Festival of the South

Various Locations | 7:30 PM

The ninth annual ACANSA Arts Festival of the South will feature musical acts such as The Big Dam Horns and The Sunshine Boys and dance groups like Dallas Black Dance Theater throughout September at various venues around Little Rock. You will not want to miss this celebration of the arts! For tickets and a full schedule of events, visit www.acansa.org

SEPTEMBER 10TH

The Carousel Centennial Celebration

Little Rock Zoo | 4:00 PM

The Over-The-Jumps Carousel found its home at the Little Rock Zoo in 2008 and is now celebrating its 100th birthday. This cherished community landmark will be celebrated with an unforgettable after-hours event for the whole family featuring live entertainment, delicious food, games and complimentary rides on the carousel all night. For more information, visit www.littlerock. com/events/carousel-centennial-celebration

SEPTEMBER 13TH – 15TH

Vintage Market Days of Little Rock

Arkansas State Fairgrounds | 10:00 AM

Vintage Market Days is an upscale vintage-inspired market featuring original art, antiques, clothing, jewelry, handmade treasures, home decor, outdoor furnishings, consumable goods, seasonal plants and more! Admission for children younger than 12 is free. Once purchased, tickets are good for re-entry into the event all weekend. For tickets, visit vintagemarketdays.com/market/little-rock

SEPTEMBER 22ND

Downtown Food Truck Festival

Capitol Avenue | 11:00 AM

The Downtown Food Truck Festival will be held from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 22, on Capitol Avenue from Chester Street to Woodlane (in front of the State Capitol) in downtown Little Rock. A total of 70 food trucks and more than 70 artists, musicians and entertainers will be featured at this don’t-miss event.

SEPTEMBER 28TH

The Big Dam Bridge 100

The Big Dam Bridge | 7:00 AM

The Big Dam Bridge 100 is an annual Little Rock event celebrating the 4,225-foot-long Big Dam Bridge, which stretches over the Arkansas River and is North America’s longest bridge built for pedestrian and bike traffic. This event offers bike routes between 15 and 105 miles across beautiful mountain and river scenery finishing in the Argenta District with live music and a block party.

SEPTEMBER 29TH

An Evening with Ann Patchett & Robin Preiss Glasser

Ron Robinson Theater | 5:30 PM

Ann Patchett, the best-selling novelist and author of essays and children’s books, will be joined by Robin Preiss Glasser, illustrator of the Fancy Nancy series, for a conversation about creativity and collaboration. The Verts: A Story of Introverts and Extroverts, written by Patchett and illustrated by Glasser, will be published on Sept. 17. For tickets, events.cals.org/event/10871272

Mother Vine Market

artist SPOTLIGHT

COVER ARTIST PATRICIA WILKES FINDS INSPIRATION IN EVERYDAY MOMENTS

Local artist Patricia Wilkes finds inspiration in the everyday moments around her. She often reaches for her phone to capture scenes that strike her as “memorable, unusual and beautiful.”

Patricia has lived in Arkansas her whole life except for the four years she attended art school in St. Louis. In her time as an artist, she says she’s had extensive training in drawing and painting the human figure, and that serves as the basis for the pieces she creates.

“It’s never failed me,” she says, “Whenever I would have a painting problem, I would look to both old and contemporary masters for help.”

Patricia works with pastels, oils and acrylics, but prefers oil.

She feels that she can bring a great sense of reality into her paintings by using many layers of glaze over one another coupled with impasto, a painting technique in which the artist leaves the paint thick so the brush strokes are visible.

“I most love to paint portraits of children,” she says. “I like working on them, capturing their image and spirit.” Even more than this, she loves to see the joy it brings the families when they see the finished portrait and get to enjoy it every day.

For this month’s “Stunning” cover, Patricia used her oldest daughter as inspiration.

“She had a great red dress, and I had a length of fabulous gold fabric, and we had a photo shoot, trying different poses,” she says.

The pose she eventually captured in the painting was her favorite one.

You can view more of Patricia’s work at The Art Group Gallery and online at artgrouparkansas.com

ARTICLE BY ALEX HARDGRAVE PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

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