OKC, OK February 2026

Love LOCAL

For over 35 years, Brent Gibson Classic Home Design has been the premier residential custom home designer for Edmond, Oklahoma City and throughout the state, setting high standards of excellence in home design.

Thank you for voting us best residential design firm this past year and for over 80 5-star reviews by satisfied clients!

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February - Love Local Issue

As February rolls around, I always find myself in a familiar tug-of-war. On one hand, I want to resist the pull of another commercialized holiday, yet on the other, I can’t help but savor the sweet moments it brings—an excuse to celebrate love in all its forms.

Do we opt for a Valentine’s Day date out or settle in for a cozy night at home? A handwritten card or a heartfelt kind word? For me, it’s usually a mix of both. Each of us will find our own ways to mark the occasion, shaped by our unique preferences and personalities. But what unites us all is the opportunity to remind those around us just how much they mean to us.

This month’s issue is dedicated to helping you do just that—celebrating and highlighting the best of what’s to love in our local community.

As we navigate the lingering chill of winter and the promise of spring’s arrival, let’s take a moment to come together with the people who matter most. Whether they’re in your home, down the street, or across the community, February is a wonderful time to connect and share love.

“Love local” isn’t just about supporting the businesses in your area—it’s about cherishing what’s near to you in every sense. So, why not grab a cup of coffee and enjoy a game night by the fire with your family? Or pick up a bottle of wine and some cheese for a relaxed movie night in.

At the heart of everything we do is the belief that together, we’re stronger. Every month, the stories shared within these pages prove that again and again.

Thank you for allowing us to be part of the life you’re building. Our greatest hope is that this issue helps you love it just a little more than before.

Here’s to a February filled with love—both local and beyond!

JIMMY DARDEN, PUBLISHER @CITYLIFESTYLE_OKC

February 2026

PUBLISHER

Jimmy Darden | jimmy.darden@citylifestyle.com 405.541.5650

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Veronica Bennett | veronica.bennett@citylifestyle.com

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Josh Govero

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

city scene

21–Dec. 28.

A SALAD REC IPE TO LOV E

A GORGEOUS, FRESH AND SIMPLE DISH

PEAR, PROSCIUTTO,

Burrata Salad

INGREDIENTS

• Ripe Pear

• Prosciutto

• Burrata

• Lemon Zest

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil

• Dried Figs

• Red Pepper Flakes

DIRECTIONS

1. Slice the ripe pear into thin slices.

2. Arrange pear slices on a plate, creating a base for the salad.

3. Nestle slices of prosciutto in-between pear slices, a perfect combo of sweet and savory.

4. Tear the burrata into bite-sized pieces and scatter them over the salad adding a velvety creaminess to the ensemble.

5. Grate fresh lemon zest over the entire salad, infusing it with citrus flavor.

6. Top with fresh basil, figs and pepper flakes.

7. Finish by generously drizzling extra virgin olive oil over the salad, creating a silky texture that ties it all together.

Rhythms Artistic LOCAL ROOTS,

“TO ME, IT IS THE PEOPLE OF OKLAHOMA CITY THAT CONTINUE TO AMAZE AND INSPIRE ME.”

As February bridges the gap between winter’s stillness and spring’s renewal, we spotlight two virtuosos enriching the Oklahoma City and Cleveland County arts scenes. Meet Kara Troester Blythe, a graceful ballerina and budding choreographer, and Royce McLarry, the distinguished Principal Violist for the Oklahoma City and Norman Philharmonics. From the discipline of the ballet barre to the precision of orchestral strings, these artists reflect on their local roots, creative rituals, and the power of performance to move our community.

DISCOVER HOW A PREMIER VIOLIST AND A GRACEFUL BALLERINA FIND INSPIRATION AND RENEWAL.

“FILL

IN THE BLANKS OF THE STORY...”

ARTISTS SPOTLIGHTKARA TROESTER BLYTHE

EVERY ARTIST HAS A UNIQUE ‘ORIGIN STORY’ WITH OUR COMMUNITY. HOW HAS LIVING OR WORKING IN THE OKC AREA SHAPED YOUR CREATIVE VOICE, AND IS THERE A SPECIFIC LOCAL SPOT THAT NEVER FAILS TO INSPIRE YOU?

To me, it is the people of Oklahoma City that continue to amaze and inspire me. So many here are passionate about their art and it cultivates a city environment of creativity and growth. Seeing the way Oklahoma City

has developed over the past 20 some years, and is continuing to grow, is something that pushes everyone in the community to continue creating and pursuing greatness. I am also always inspired every time I attend a performing arts event. Being a performing artist myself, watching musicals, dance productions, theater shows, orchestral performances, and so much more put on by our fabulous performing arts community never ceases to ignite a spark in me.

WHETHER YOU ARE TUNING AN INSTRUMENT, PREPPING A CANVAS, OR REHEARSING A SCENE, WHAT DOES THE FIRST HOUR OF YOUR CREATIVE PROCESS LOOK LIKE? DO YOU HAVE ANY ‘MUST-HAVE’ RITUALS TO GET INTO THE ZONE?

Getting in the zone is so different for each craft. For ballet, I begin with a ballet barre warm up, whether by myself or with the entire company. Anywhere between 30 to 90 minutes to get my muscles ready and heart pumping. This prepares my body for whatever I am performing that day. My mental ritual is to use visualization exercises. I try to visualize myself dancing in two ways in order to prepare my mind for the stage. I first begin by imagining what the piece feels like from my perspective, going through every movement and how I want to execute each step. I then imagine observing myself on the stage as though I was an audience member, and work to visualize what I am trying to convey to the audience. It is important for me to perform not just for myself, but to convey to the audience what is needed through dance.

FEBRUARY OFTEN SITS AT THE CROSSROADS OF WINTER’S QUIET AND THE FIRST HINTS OF SPRING. HOW DOES THIS TIME OF YEAR—OR THE THEMES OF REFLECTION AND RENEWAL—SHOW UP IN YOUR CURRENT WORK?

This time of year is always when I do just that: reflect and look forward. I always try to look back on the areas of growth and what I have put forth over the last few months and year. It allows me to truly appreciate what I have done and set new goals for myself moving forward. The new year always inspires me to try something new and step out of my comfort zone in my art. This spring, I will be doing this by choreographing for the first time, and I am looking forward to what this new creative outlet will look like for me! Typically, my dancing is an outlet for others creative choreography, so it is exciting for me to be the creator this time and make a work for others to present to an audience.

ART IS OFTEN A CONVERSATION BETWEEN THE CREATOR AND THE AUDIENCE. WHAT IS ONE THING YOU HOPE A LOCAL NEIGHBOR FEELS OR THINKS ABOUT AFTER EXPERIENCING YOUR WORK FOR THE FIRST TIME?

After experiencing my dancing, I hope that an observer can feel the emotions behind what I am doing. Because ballet does not use words, it is up to the observer to fill in the blanks of the story through what they are witnessing on stage. I hope that my dancing is powerful and strong enough to convey what would normally could be said simply through words. Art styles like this allows observers an avenue to explore the emotions and thoughts they have behind each piece, and it is so valuable to let each observer come to their own conclusions.

ARTISTS SPOTLIGHT- ROYCE MCLARRY

Musical Journey Royce McLarry currently serves as Principal Viola for both the Norman Philharmonic and Oklahoma City Philharmonic. His prominent position in these orchestras highlights his expertise and dedication to his craft.

Royce grew up in a highly musical family. His father, Lacy McLarry, was concertmaster of the Oklahoma Symphony Orchestra and served as Artist-in-Residence and Director of String Development at Oklahoma City University. Lacy was well-known for his successful Suzuki program, which involved several teachers and hundreds of students between the ages of two and twenty. Royce’s mother, Beverly McLarry, is a singer and composer who served as minister of music at First Christian Church and as an adjunct professor of voice at Oklahoma City Community College. His sister, Amanda, is the director of the Suzuki Academy of Waco and a Suzuki Teacher Trainer with more than forty years of teaching experience.

Royce began his musical studies at the young age of four, learning violin from his father, Lacy McLarry. His talent was evident early on, as he made his solo debut with the Oklahoma Symphony Orchestra (now the Oklahoma City Philharmonic) at just 12 years old. By the age of 16, he was already distinguishing himself as a finalist in the International Mozart Festival Competition in Pueblo, Colorado.

While in high school, Royce expanded his musical horizons by picking up the viola, motivated by his friends’ interest in forming a string quartet. During his time as a

student at Oklahoma City University, he continued to develop his skills, playing both violin and viola.

In the summer of 1971, while Royce’s father was on the faculty of Kansas State Teachers College in Emporia, Kansas, the family traveled to Matsumoto, Japan. There, they worked with Dr. Suzuki and studied his renowned teaching method. Royce, at age 8, and his sister Amanda, at age 6, participated in classes and recitals. Their father had taught both children using the Suzuki Method, which emphasizes parental involvement in lessons, allowing parents to serve as home teachers

“... I TRY TO BE EMOTIONALLY INVOLVED.”

during the week. Repetition and positive encouragement are key aspects of this popular teaching approach.

EVERY ARTIST HAS A UNIQUE ‘ORIGIN STORY’ WITH OUR COMMUNITY. HOW HAS LIVING OR WORKING IN THE OKC AREA SHAPED YOUR CREATIVE VOICE, AND IS THERE A SPECIFIC LOCAL SPOT THAT NEVER FAILS TO INSPIRE YOU?

My parents, my sister and I moved to Norman from Emporia, KS in the summer of 1972. I attended Jackson Elementary School for grades 4-5 and Whittier Middle School for grades 6-8. The following year we moved to Oklahoma City where I attended Northwest Classen High School. I graduated from Oklahoma City University with a Bachelor of Music Degree in 1987. My father, Lacy McLarry, was Concertmaster of the Oklahoma Symphony during the 1970s and through the mid 1980s. My mother is a singer, composer and retired choir director. My sister is also a violinist.

I played in the Oklahoma Youth Orchestra and attended Oklahoma Summer Arts Institute as a high school student.

I remember my earlier days in Norman fondly. I enjoyed playing in the Whittier Middle School Orchestra with my friends. Several of those musicians I continue to play with to this day.

WHETHER YOU ARE TUNING AN INSTRUMENT, PREPPING A CANVAS, OR REHEARSING A SCENE, WHAT DOES THE FIRST HOUR OF YOUR CREATIVE PROCESS LOOK LIKE?

DO YOU HAVE ANY ‘MUST-HAVE’ RITUALS TO GET INTO THE ZONE

The first hour of preparation for an upcoming performance includes working the more difficult passages. Basically, trying to be as well prepared for the first

rehearsal of any upcoming performances as possible.

FEBRUARY OFTEN SITS AT THE CROSSROADS OF WINTER’S QUIET AND THE FIRST HINTS OF SPRING. HOW DOES THIS TIME OF YEAR—OR THE THEMES OF REFLECTION AND RENEWAL— SHOW UP IN YOUR CURRENT WORK?

February has always been a special month for me. Since it’s my birth month it is naturally a month of reflection and renewal.

ART IS OFTEN A CONVERSATION BETWEEN THE CREATOR AND THE AUDIENCE. WHAT IS ONE THING YOU HOPE A LOCAL NEIGHBOR FEELS OR THINKS ABOUT AFTER EXPERIENCING YOUR WORK FOR THE FIRST TIME? When performing a piece of music for the first or one hundredth time, I try to be emotionally involved.  I think it’s important to be really into whatever I’m playing in order to keep the audience’s attention for the duration of the performance.

ARTISTS SPOTLIGHTRACHEL ANN KENDRICK

A multidisciplinary artist living in Oklahoma City. She explores the intersections of art, technology, identity, and expression. She earned her BA in Fine Arts from Northeastern State University.

Kendrick’s diverse practice combines mechanical sculpture, murals, abstract and surreal painting, electronic music, and video art. Her innovative approach fuses industrial and organic elements, inviting viewers to contemplate the relationships between technology, nature, and humanity. Kendrick’s pursuit of innovation yields visually striking and intellectually resonant works.

CONTINUED >

EVERY ARTIST HAS A UNIQUE ‘ORIGIN STORY’ WITH OUR COMMUNITY. HOW HAS LIVING OR WORKING IN THE OKC AREA SHAPED YOUR CREATIVE VOICE, AND IS THERE A SPECIFIC LOCAL SPOT THAT NEVER FAILS TO INSPIRE YOU?

Oklahoma City has been a catalyst for my artistic growth. The city’s cultural diversity and central location have expanded my reach, allowing me to showcase my work regionally and surrounding states. I’m drawn to the Myriad Botanical Gardens’ crystal bridge and the Plaza District’s eclectic vibe. The Oklahoma City Museum of Art’s collection and Will Rogers Park’s serene landscapes also inspire my creativity.

WHETHER YOU ARE TUNING AN INSTRUMENT, PREPPING A CANVAS, OR REHEARSING A SCENE, WHAT DOES THE FIRST HOUR OF YOUR CREATIVE PROCESS LOOK LIKE? DO YOU HAVE ANY ‘MUST-HAVE’ RITUALS TO GET INTO THE ZONE?

The creative process begins with setting an intention and thinking about what I’m going to create. I start with playing my favorite music, allowing the melodies to help get my thoughts in the zone. Many times a cup of coffee gets me going. I journal or sketch ideas, letting my subconscious guide the way. When painting, I prefer to start with a loose, intuitive approach and like

a dance it eventually becomes more clear as I go on. My studio is my sanctuary – natural light, and music create the perfect atmosphere. This music ritual allows me to tap into my artistic voice.

FEBRUARY OFTEN SITS AT THE CROSSROADS OF WINTER’S QUIET AND THE FIRST HINTS OF SPRING. HOW DOES THIS TIME OF YEAR—OR THE THEMES OF REFLECTION AND RENEWAL—SHOW UP IN YOUR CURRENT WORK?

February’s duality resonates with my practice. I’m drawn to reflection at this time of year. My work explores transformation, often featuring symbols of growth and rebirth. Vibrant colors and dreamlike surrealist themes. I enjoy setting intentions for future shows, connecting with the community, and sparking conversations through my art.

ART IS OFTEN A CONVERSATION BETWEEN THE CREATOR AND THE AUDIENCE. WHAT IS ONE THING YOU HOPE A LOCAL NEIGHBOR FEELS OR THINKS ABOUT AFTER EXPERIENCING YOUR WORK FOR THE FIRST TIME?

I hope that the audience for my work would experience a sense of wonder, like they’ve stumbled upon a hidden world that’s both personal and universal. Maybe they see a painting and feel a memory resurface, or recognize a pattern that resonates deeply. Maybe they feel emotions from the colors or patterns. I would want them to think, “That resonates with me, but I’ve never seen it expressed like that before.” That’s the conversation I want to start – one that unfolds in their mind, long after they’ve left the gallery.

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMY SALVAGNO

Elevated Cocktail for Brunch Beyond &

3 Fun Cocktails That Are Sure To Impress

Whether you prefer to dine reclining pillow-side in pajamas or beside a beautifully dressed table, you’ll appreciate an elegant, elevated cocktail to make your brunch menu extra special. So while you’re indulging in a few extra pieces of bacon, savoring bites of flaky quiche and luxuriating over berry and whipped cream-topped pancakes, you’ll be sure to impress with one of these three morning-friendly mixes.

Gin Jam &

A simple ingredient drink unites the botanical complexity of gin with the rich sweetness of your favorite jam.

Ingredients:

• 2 ounces gin

• 1 ounce lemon juice

• 1/2 ounce simple syrup

• 1 teaspoon raspberry (or your favorite) jam

• Spoonful of jam for garnish

Instructions:

1. Add the gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and jam to your mixing glass.

2. Add ice and shake for 10 seconds.

3. Strain into a double old-fashioned glass over crushed ice.

4. Top with a spoonful of jam and stir it in while you sip.

DIS COVER THE VALAIS REGION OF SWITZERLAND, WHERE ALPINE TRAILS, THERMAL SPRINGS, AND LOCAL TRADITIONS CREATE RESTORATIVE TRAVEL.

AN ALPINE ESCAPE

In Switzerland’s Valais region, wellness and adventure are always part of the same itinerary. Morning could bring a high-alpine hike, afternoon a soak in mineral-rich springs, and evening a table set with traditional cuisine, always including delicious wine and cheese. For travelers, the best part will be finding the perfect balance between exploring the outdoors and relaxing with wellness-infused activities in the heart of the Swiss Alps.

A CAR-FREE ALPINE ADVENTURE IN ALETSCH ARENA

An easy train ride from Zurich lands visitors in the Aletsch Arena, a high-alpine region on the south side of the Bernese Alps, home to three villages: Riederalp, Bettmeralp, and Fiescheralp. Known for its ski slopes in winter and hiking in summer, the area is entirely car-free, making walking and local buses the main modes of transportation through its quaint chalet-lined streets.

One of the main attractions of the ski-in/ski-out area is the Aletsch Glacier, the longest glacier in the Alps. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the 12-mile glacier is visible from several vantage points, shaping every experience in the area.

WHERE TO STAY

ARTICLE BY GABI DE LA ROSA

Located in the heart of Bettmeralp, Hotel Panorama provides no-fuss accommodations steps away from the picturesque Chapel Maria Zum Schnee. The hotel’s restaurant offers delicious regional cuisine, including raclette paired with Swiss wine. A good bottle of Pinot Noir or Gamay is also easy to come by because the Valais region of Switzerland is one of the largest wine-producing areas in the country, with vineyards dotting the steep slopes of the Rhône Valley. In addition to wine and cheese, eating cholera, a covered vegetable pie invented in the region during the cholera epidemic, is a must.

WHAT TO DO

Begin at Viewpoint Moosfluh, the closest and lowest vantage point of the Aletsch Glacier. From there, trailheads lead to Villa Cassel, once the home of a British financier and now a museum focused on history and conservation. The hike passes through a thousand-yearold forest with views of both the glacier and the Matterhorn.

Walk over Goms Bridge, a nearly 1,000-foot-long suspension bridge that connects two hiking areas over the Rhône River. For a final look at the majestic glacier, take the cable car to Viewpoint Eggishorn. At nearly 10,000 feet above sea level, it offers panoramic views of the Matterhorn, Mont Blanc, Jungfraujoch, or the “Top of Europe,” and the most comprehensive view of the Aletsch Glacier.

THERMAL WATERS AND MOUNTAIN VIEWS IN LEUKERBAD

After miles of hiking in the Aletsch Arena, it is time to relax and recharge in the mountain village of Leukerbad.

WHERE TO STAY

Hotel Restaurant Quellenhof Leukerbad is steps away from many of the area’s best thermal pools. The hotel also has a restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner with several regional specialties.

WHAT TO DO

Since the 1500s, the area has been a well-known destination for wellness and healing due to over 65 natural hot springs that

flow into the alpine village. Several public bathhouses welcome visitors year-round, including Leukerbad Therme, the largest thermal wellness resort in Europe. The family-friendly wellness center includes ten pools and a range of hot and cold plunge options. Walliser Alpentherme & Spa and Therme 51 also offer public access to the mineral-rich waters.

A hike through Dala Gorge provides beautiful mountain views while traversing a 2,000-foot suspension bridge over the Dala River. Hikers can also experience a 100-foot waterfall before the forested hiking trail leads back to Leukerbad.

The village is considered one of the most traditional and beautiful alpine settings in the country. It lacks the pretentiousness of Switzerland’s larger metropolitan areas and offers a storybook atmosphere with a friendly small-town feel. Walking through

URBAN CORE

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Leukerbad reveals gorgeous chalets, small shops, bakeries, and restaurants worth exploring.

WHERE TO EAT

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No trip to Switzerland is complete without fondue. Dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries, fondue, which translates to “melt” in French, is a national dish consisting of a blend of Gruyere and Emmental cheeses. One of the oldest family-owned restaurants in Leukerbad, Restaurant Sternen offers traditional fondue along with a variety of mix-ins and dipping options. Pair the fondue with Valais wine for a celebratory meal. Restaurant Waldhaus is one of the most elevated restaurants in the village and is another family-run establishment offering a seasonal menu and over 70 different grappas to choose from.

CONTINUED >

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Available Now - Schedule your tour today

NORTH SHORE

Discover timeless craftsmanship in OKC’s premier downtown development near Scissortail Park. Experience luxury living in homes designed for elegance, comfort and an urban lifestyle curated by Randolph Design + Build.

Discover exceptional craftsmanship in OKC’s new downtown development near Scissortail Park. Designed and built by Randolph Design + Build, these homes are exquisite, charming and available for immediate move-in!

Discover timeless craftsmanship in OKC’s premier downtown development near Scissortail Park. Experience luxury living in homes designed for elegance, comfort, and an urban lifestyle.

Available Now - Schedule your tour today

HISTORY AND ALPS MEET IN MARTIGNY

A short train ride takes visitors to one of the largest cities in the Valais region of Switzerland. The city is a crossroads between Italy and France, with a history dating back to Roman times. Visitors can tour Roman ruins, including a well-preserved amphitheater, ancient settlements, and Roman baths.

WHERE TO STAY

Martigny Boutique Hotel is minutes from the train station and is one of the few establishments in the city employing people with disabilities. The light and bright hotel provides a comfortable base for exploring the city.

WHAT TO DO

Take the steepest funicular in the world, the Mont-Blanc Express, on a scenic ascent through the Alps. The funicular connects to a smaller train that leads to the Trient Valley on the French-Swiss border, where, at the top, a full day of activity begins. Hiking, biking, zip-lining, or traversing the Emosson Dam, which straddles France and Switzerland, are all options. The crystal clear blue waters of Emosson Lake are perfect for a picnic or a break between adventures.

Back in Martigny, Barryland, the only theme park in the world dedicated to St. Bernard dogs, offers a look at the history of the dog, bred by monks in the 17th century for alpine rescue work. The Barry Foundation, founded in 2005, continues to preserve the breed and educate visitors about it. Guests can watch the dogs train, play, and interact as they learn about their role in the region.

Roman influence remains visible across the city, including at Les Bains Publics at Hotel Borsari, where visitors can soak in cement wine barrels located in the hotel’s spa. The baths sit on the site of a former wine tank factory and offer a circuit of hot and cold pools in a historically inspired, wine-colored setting.

Date Night

AT HOME

THREE CREATIVE IDEAS TO CELEBRATE LOVE

ARTICLE BY BAILEY HALL

Not every date night needs to involve reservations or an elaborate itinerary. With a little creativity, you can create magical moments right at home. Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day or just want to reconnect, here are three ideas for unforgettable at-home date nights.

ROMANTIC PICNIC UNDER THE STARS

Transform your backyard or balcony into a dreamy picnic spot! Spread out a cozy blanket, add a few fluffy pillows, and hang string lights or fairy lights for ambiance. A small fire pit or lanterns can also add a romantic glow.

Pack a picnic basket with finger foods and a bottle of wine or sparkling water. Don’t forget a decadent dessert like chocolate-dipped strawberries. Lay back and stargaze, identifying constellations or making wishes on shooting stars. To make it extra romantic, bring a bluetooth speaker and play soft music.

PAINT AND CREATE TOGETHER

Unleash your inner artists with one of these three fun and interactive dates. Grab some inexpensive canvases, brushes, and acrylic paints from the craft store. Don’t forget aprons or old clothes to protect against spills!

• Paint each other’s portraits for a mix of laughter and creativity.

• Work on a collaborative painting - each person adds their own touch to a single canvas.

• Try a themed painting challenge, like recreating your favorite memory together.      Pair this date with a cheese platter and wine and don’t worry about being “good’ at painting - it’s all about enjoying the process together.

BREAKFAST IN BED

Start the day with love by turning breakfast into an indulgent experience. Prepare a tray with a DIY breakfast charcuterie board. Include mini pancakes, waffles, fresh fruit, yogurt, granola, bacon, and pastries. Add small bowls of toppings like syrup, Nutella, or whipped cream.

Mix up mimosas or serve coffee with flavored syrups and whipped cream for a café vibe. Then, snuggle up in bed and watch a favorite movie or TV series.