Plano, TX September 2024

Upgrade Your LifeSTYLE!

Welcome to the latest issue of City Lifestyle, where we immerse ourselves in the timeless allure of style across fashion, beauty, and home. This edition is a celebration of the artistry and innovation that define luxury living in our vibrant landscape.

Beauty enthusiasts will find inspiration in our curated selection of skincare rituals and expert tips from industry insiders. Whether you're seeking a radiant glow or the perfect shade of lipstick, our beauty section is your go-to resource for achieving effortless elegance and confidence.

Turning our focus to the home, we invite you to explore luxurious residences that embody sophistication and impeccable design. Exterior home style plays a crucial role in defining the overall aesthetic appeal of a property. It encompasses everything from the architectural design and materials used to the color scheme and landscaping choices. Thoughtful integration of outdoor spaces, such as inviting porches or landscaped gardens, further enhances the charm and functionality of the exterior, creating a welcoming ambiance that complements the interior living spaces.

At City Lifestyle, we are dedicated to curating content that resonates with your desire for both style and substance. Our commitment extends beyond showcasing trends; it's about inspiring you to cultivate a lifestyle that reflects your unique sense of taste and refinement.

As you navigate through this issue, we encourage you to indulge in the beauty of fashion, embrace the allure of beauty rituals, and envision the possibilities of home styling. Thank you for joining us on this journey of exploration and discovery.

Here's to embracing style across every aspect of your extraordinary life.

Warm regards,

ANGI BURNS, PUBLISHER @PLANOCITYLIFESTYLE

Are you on the association board for your subdivision? Do you have someone you would like to nominate for Student, Non-Profit or First Responder of the Month. Contact us for information on how you can be included in upcoming articles and share your events and ideas. We would love to partner with you to host our events in your neighborhood! Just give us a shout. We want to meet you.

September 2024

PUBLISHER

Angi Burns | angi.burns@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Kathy Moreno | kathy.moreno@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Hang Le | hang.le@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGERS

Joseph Rivers | joseph.rivers@citylifestyle.com

Brooke Riley | brooke.riley@citylifestyle.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS

Christian West, Joseph Fang

STAFF WRITERS

Kathy Moreno, Garland Hancock

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman

LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.

3:5-6

1 - 7: Join Plano City Lifestyle for our monthly Business to Business Happy Hour held the 4th Friday of each month. All local business owners and professionals are welcome to join us! Contact our team through our website, Citylifestlye.com/Plano, for more information on our next event. Special thanks to Fleming’s Steakhouse for hosting our recent event and Big D Mechanical for the wonderful door prizes!

ARTICLE BY KATHY MORENO | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JODIE JOLLEY

local experiences

DISCOVER LOCAL GEMS, CREATE MEMORIES AND EMBRACE AUTHENTIC COMMUNITY EXPERIENCES.

Explore our meticulously curated list of local establishments where you can purchase or rent formal wear, ensuring you look impeccable for any event. From elegant boutiques showcasing the latest in haute couture to specialized rental services offering a wide range of styles and sizes, each destination promises personalized service and high-quality garments.

Elegancia Formal Wear | The newest trends in fashion for your formal events. with a wide selection of dresses that include; quinceañera, prom, homecoming, bridesmaid, mother-of-the-bride.  2129 N Josey Ln. Carrollton, TX 75006

Winnie Couture Bridal Atelier | Explore, indulge, fantasize, and fall in love with the wedding dress of your dreams.  2995 Preston Rd., #1580 Frisco, TX 75034

Minsky Formal Wear | The perfect option if you want a stylish custom fit suit or tux for your wedding or special event without being forced to purchase it.  819 W Arapaho Road, Ste. 28 Richardson, TX 75080

Gariani Menswear | Men’s & women’s clothing, custom suits and dress shirts, shoes, sportswear, and custom alterations for men and women.  15340 Dallas Pkwy, Dallas, TX 75248

Terry Costa | Largest Selection of Prom, HoCo and Pageant dresses in Texas!  12817 Preston Rd Ste. 138, Dallas, Texas 75230

Estate Planning Never Goes Out Of Style

Will you leave the future of your loved ones to uncertainty and potential legal battles? Don’t let hesitation jeopardize what you care about most. Caring for your family never goes out of style. Reach out to us for comprehensive estate planning that will ensure your wishes are respected and your loved ones are cared for, no matter what happens.

HARMONIZING NATURE WITH MODERN DESIGN

A Resort-Style Retreat

Right at Home

ARTICLE BY KATHY MORENO | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAY STAR LANDSCAPES

In the world of landscaping, the art of creating stunning outdoor living spaces is evolving with a focus on new design elements. Imagine stepping into a personal oasis, adorned with healthy trees, robust plants, and vibrant flowers, where meticulous attention to detail brings your landscaping dreams to life.

Today's landscaping trends merge natural beauty with modern amenities, transforming ordinary backyards into extraordinary retreats. At the forefront are features like outdoor kitchens, pergolas, and contemporary lighting. These elements not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor space but also extend the functionality of your home.

OUTDOOR KITCHENS: CULINARY DELIGHTS IN THE OPEN AIR

An outdoor kitchen is more than just a grill; it’s a fullfledged cooking area that allows you to prepare, cook, and serve meals while enjoying the beauty of nature. Equipped with high-end appliances, ample counter space, and sometimes even a bar area, these kitchens make outdoor entertaining seamless and stylish.

PERGOLAS: ELEGANCE AND SHADE

Pergolas add a touch of elegance and provide muchneeded shade during hot summer days. They can be adorned with climbing plants or vines, creating a lush, green canopy that blends seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.

CONTINUED >

MODERN LIGHTING: ILLUMINATING BEAUTY

The right lighting transforms your outdoor space after sunset, highlighting key features and creating a magical ambiance. Modern lighting solutions, such as LED path lights, uplights for trees, and string lights, enhance the visual appeal and ensure your outdoor area is functional and inviting, even at night.

BRINGING LOCAL HARDSCAPE TO YOUR PERSONAL OASIS

Incorporating local hardscape materials like stone, wood, and brick not only adds durability but also connects your space to the natural beauty of your region. These materials create a cohesive look that feels organic and timeless.

ENTERTAINING THE WHOLE FAMILY: FUN AND GAMES

A well-designed outdoor space isn't just for relaxation; it's also a playground for the entire family. Popular trends include:

• Bocce Ball Courts: A bocce ball court provides endless fun for all ages, encouraging friendly competition and outdoor activity.

• Putting Greens: Perfect for golf enthusiasts, a putting green allows you to practice your swing and enjoy a leisurely game without leaving home.

A RESORT-STYLE RETREAT RIGHT AT HOME

Imagine walking into a resort-style relaxing getaway, just steps from your back door. Your dream outdoor space might include a fully equipped kitchen, a cozy lounge area, and a charming fireplace, all surrounded by lush, meticulously landscaped grounds. This little piece of tranquility offers a sanctuary amidst the busyness of everyday life.

By embracing these new build design elements and current trends, you can transform your outdoor space into a haven of beauty, functionality, and enjoyment. Whether you’re cooking a meal under the stars, playing a game of bocce ball with family, or simply lounging by the fire, your backyard can become a dream escape, a place where landscaping and luxury meet. Transform your outdoor area with  Daystar Landscapes, the leading North Texas landscape experts since 1984. Info@daystarlandscapes.com

Transforming Spaces Using Your Personal Style

Chelsey Rogers, a self-taught mural artist based in northeast DFW, has made a name for herself by turning spaces into personalized works of art. Her journey into mural painting began unexpectedly fourteen years ago after the birth of her son, sparked by fond memories of painting with her father at rental properties during summer breaks. What started as a newfound passion blossomed into a thriving career driven by dedication and a commitment to creating beauty wherever she goes.

Having explored diverse career paths— from banking to teaching mathematics and eventually finding fulfillment in high school art education—Chelsey ventured into entrepreneurship in 2018 with ColorHype. Initially a side venture alongside her teaching job, ColorHype offered painting classes that quickly gained popularity. However, with the onset of the pandemic in 2020, Chelsey pivoted her focus. Undeterred, she adapted by launching virtual classes and shipping art kits across Dallas, serving clients ranging from individuals to corporate giants like Dell and Toyota. Amidst this whirlwind, her passion for murals flourished, driven by growing demand for her artistic touch in homes, businesses, and vacation properties.

Chelsey understands that murals are more than mere decorations—they are transformative statements that can enhance the style and personality of any room. Through close collaboration with homeowners, she ensures each mural reflects their unique tastes and complements existing decor seamlessly. Whether crafting a serene nature scene for a bedroom retreat, a vibrant cityscape for a living room, or a whimsical theme for a children's play area, Chelsey's murals are tailored to resonate with the inhabitants' lifestyles and preferences. She meticulously considers color schemes, furniture layouts, and room ambiance to craft murals that not only elevate aesthetic appeal but also evoke a deep sense of personal connection within the space. This personalized approach ensures each mural not only beautifies but also imbues the space with a unique identity, truly making it their own.

"For me, each mural is a collaborative journey," Chelsey shares. "I draw inspiration directly from my clients' visions and preferences. It's about bringing their ideas to life in a way that adds a unique, personal touch to their spaces."

Her creative process begins digitally, using tools like Procreate to create detailed mockups that seamlessly integrate with a room's existing decor. This approach enhances accuracy and allows clients to visualize the final result before Chelsey applies a brushstroke. Her preferred materials, including Behr Enamel and Urethane Alkyd Exterior Paints, ensure durability and vibrant colors suitable for various surfaces—from interior walls to outdoor installations.

When discussing the impact of her murals on room ambiance, Chelsey notes, "A well-placed mural can completely transform a space, adding a 'wow' factor that was previously missing. Whether it's a whimsical children's room or an elegant dining area, the right mural elevates the entire atmosphere."

Looking ahead, Chelsey is excited about emerging trends in mural art, particularly in spaces like game rooms and home theaters. She also plans to expand her artistic repertoire by exploring airbrush techniques, which promise greater efficiency for larger projects.

Reflecting on her journey and the impact of her work, Chelsey remarks, "I hope my murals bring joy and inspiration to people's lives, much like the artist who inspired me in my youth. Each piece I create leaves a lasting impression, enhancing homes with enduring beauty."

As Chelsey Rogers continues to blend creativity with craftsmanship, her murals not only adorn walls but also enrich lives, illustrating the transformative power of art in our everyday spaces.

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Hashtag Jewelers FINE

ARTICLE BY GARLAND HANCOCK REDEFINING LUXURY WITH EXPERTISE AND TRENDSETTING STYLES

Offering the most trending styles in the world of precious stones, Allen's Hashtag Fine Jewelry is the brainchild of two women whose partnership is just as rare as the diamonds they sell.

Khadejeh "Coco" Sayed and Anjali Agarwal's co-ownership of Hashtag Fine Jewelers represents one of only two female diamond partnerships in the metroplex. Their unique venture is further underscored by their vast experience. One hails from India, one of the biggest international markets for diamonds and precious stones, and the other from Dubai, a place

where fashion and luxury are ever-present. Both come from families steeped in fine-jewelry tradition, which helps them cut out the middleman and offer clients wholesale prices in a very retail environment.

Nevertheless, they offer two different perspectives. Agarwal spent 15 years as a diamond wholesaler, and that is how she met Coco, who worked 15 years in retail, designing, and manufacturing. Their combined expertise in the wholesale and retail aspects of fine jewelry led them to open their Hashtag store in December 2022.

In keeping with this year’s most popular trends nationwide, Hashtag Fine Jewelers’ inventory includes layered necklaces, cuff bracelets, hoop earrings, stackable and fancy shapes, and plenty of yellow gold jewelry, which, according to Vogue magazine, has seen a recent renaissance on fashion runways worldwide. Fashionistas also claim that yellow gold jewelry is prominent this year, especially when paired with green muzo emeralds and fancy yellow diamonds.

Much of what Hashtag Fine Jewelers carries is classified as “handpicked luxury jewelry,” and the store specializes in customizing jewelry from 1.00 ct to 100 cts. For both its female and male clientele, Hashtag Fine Jewelers offers high-end brands with global reach.

On the women’s side of the ledger, Hashtag's inventory includes fashion jewelry by A. Link and Nader Kash, Italian high-end jewelry by Luvor and Hulchi Bellumi, and engagement rings and wedding bands by Sylvie and Kirk Kara. For the men, the store carries items branded by Bulova, Frederick Constant, Benchmark (wedding bands), Citizen (watches), and St. Dupont (lighters, wallets, cigar cutters, and pens).

At Hashtag Fine Jewelers, they believe in educating clients about each piece purchased, making it easier for clients to understand and appreciate the jewelry. They ensure that each client knows how a quality certified piece of jewelry can be an investment heirloom to be passed from generation to generation.

At Hashtag Fine Jewelers, people walk in as clients but, with their personal customer service, they make them feel like part of the family. They believe in building a lifetime connection with their clients. The store is tastefully built, providing a luxurious and inviting atmosphere.

Coco and Anjali claim the key to their jewelry store’s success is educating clients and guiding them in the right direction for quality diamond purchases. They ensure that their clients save money while beating the competition. Customizing jewelry is one of their biggest niches. They believe in reusing clients' old jewelry to create and design new, quality pieces that can be enjoyed for generations.

Providing a one-of-a-kind piece sometimes requires simply starting from scratch.

"Many customers have a precious stone—maybe a ruby—they have inherited," says Agarwal. "We’ll deep clean, polish the stone, and then collaborate with the customer to create a unique setting."

"We feel beauty is in the eye of the beholder," says Coco, "so we go out of our way to provide exactly what the customer envisions."

Tips for Professional Headshots That Stand Out

EXPERT ADVICE FROM JOE FANG, LOCAL PHOTOGRAPHER SPECIALIZING IN CREATING POWERFUL HEADSHOTS FOR PROFESSIONALS

Facial Expressions

Be Authentically YOU!

Your image speaks volumes. That’s why Joe has embraced the role of a micro-expression coach, guiding you to reveal your most authentic and confident self during your session. His goal is not merely to capture your appearance because anybody can look into a camera and smile. He is there to ensure your images create first impressions that are unforgettable and connection-building. Your headshot should convey who YOU are as a person and professional.

The Joe Fang Photography experience doesn’t stop at the click of the camera. Along with his wife, Sarah Wang, they form an unstoppable team. They handle professional retouching in-house, upholding the timeless values of

craftsmanship to elevate your images. Sarah is a talented Graphics Designer and UI/UX designer; she’s a visionary who crafts client-centric products, from website design to business cards, helping professionals establish and reinforce their personal or business brand.

Together, as a photographer-designer duo, they offer comprehensive branding packages that seamlessly integrate stunning imagery and impeccable design. At Joe Fang Photography, they are not just about pictures; they are about crafting compelling stories and unforgettable brands. Contact Joe and Sarah at JoeFangPhotgraphy. com or by phone at (972) 532-6889.

Hair and Makeup

Focus on keeping your hair and makeup natural and true to your everyday appearance. Opt for hairstyles that you feel comfortable and confident in. Enhance your features with a light foundation or tinted moisturizer, a touch of blush for a healthy glow, and subtle eye makeup with mascara and neutral eyeshadow. Choose a lip color that enhances your natural tone or opt for a simple gloss. Avoid heavy trends and dramatic looks that might overshadow your natural beauty. Avoid coloring or cutting your hair the week of your photoshoot. The goal is to present a polished version of yourself that feels genuine and timeless.

Style Choices

Selecting solid colors without logos or distracting designs ensures the focus remains on your face. Choose flattering necklines such as V-necks or crew necks that compliment your features. Avoid stripes or busy patterns that can divert attention. Layering solids with denim adds depth and texture, contributing to a polished look. Incorporating simple, non-distracting jewelry or opting for a professional suit or attire enhances the overall impression of professionalism and sophistication. Present yourself in a way that is both visually appealing and authentically represents your professional persona. The goal is to keep your outfit simple and timeless, allowing your personality and expression to shine through in the photograph.

Youth and Acting Headshots

Let Your Natural Beauty Shine Keep It Simple Personality and Versatility

For youth headshots, it's essential to capture genuine expressions that reflect personality and energy. Allow the child to lead the shoot with guidance from the photographer. Parents should stay out of the way of the professional hired to capture the perfect photo. Acting headshots should convey specific characterizations and castability, demonstrating your range and ability to embody different roles convincingly. Utilize a variety of angles and expressions to highlight the spectrum of your talent, from serious and dramatic to lighthearted and comedic. Each shot should tell a story and evoke emotion, leaving a lasting impression of your capabilities and potential in the entertainment industry.

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

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

SEPTEMBER 2ND

Labor Day Pool Party

The Texas Pool: 901 Springbrook Drive, Plano, TX 75075 | 12:00 PM

Celebrate the last day of summer with a Labor Day Texas Pool picnic party and traditional pool games. Come swim in the historic 168,000-gallon saltwater pool shaped like Texas. They have a diving board, two water slides, a “North Texas” island and a shallow “South Texas” wading area for small children & parents.

SEPTEMBER 6TH

Luke Combs Tribute: Like Combs

Lexus Box Garden at Legacy Hall: 7800 Windrose Ave Plano, 75024 | 7:00 PM

It's going to be a "BEAUTIFUL CRAZY" night with the ultimate Luke Combs tribute band. Legacy Box Garden is an outdoor live music stage & courtyard modeled from shipping containers at an entertainment complex.

SEPTEMBER 7TH

Taylor Swift Tribute: Reputation

Lexus Box Garden at Legacy Hall: 7800 Windrose Ave Plano, 75024 | 7:00 PM

Reputation Tribute is back, and what better excuse to celebrate the new release of a Taylor Swift album than to celebrate her top hits! Eat. Drink. Play. Gather. Legacy Hall features 20+ restaurants, numerous bars, live music and a brewery.

SEPTEMBER 7TH

Chris Colston Live

Love & War in Texas: 601 E Plano Pkwy, Plano, TX 75074 | 7:00 PM

Having one foot in Texas and the other in Tennessee has been a way of life for singer-songwriter Chris Colston, who has swept through the world of country music with a Neo Traditional Red Dirt sound reflective of his Lindale, TX roots. Chris has won over a dedicated fanbase with a stage presence that makes a crowd go wild.

SEPTEMBER 10TH

La Vero Gomez "Fertil" Special Presentation

Plano House of Comedy: 7301 Lone Star Dr., Ste A-110 Plano, TX 75024 | 7:30 PM

La Vero Gómez presents her new stand-up comedy show, "Fértil," where she shares the stories of a 40-year-old woman on a quest to have a baby. Living with her partner and challenging the label 'ma'am,' this show is her latest creation, born from her creative fertility. She aims to expand her humor across borders, celebrating the work of Venezuelan women.

SEPTEMBER 14TH

Witty Kids Discovery Walks

Legacy West: 5908 Headquarters Dr, Plano 75024 | 10:00 AM

Witty Kids Discovery Walks are fun walks that are full of opportunities for outdoor learning. Author Rebecca Clark brings her children's book to life by creating a space for children to use their imagination by exploring ideas.

Want to be featured?

SEPTEMBER 19TH - 22ND

2024 Plano Balloon Festival

Oak Point Park Special Events Field: 2801 E. Spring Creek Pkwy., Plano, TX 75074

2024 marks 45 years of Ballooning in Plano and Collin County! Join in the Celebration at the H-E-B | Central Market Plano Balloon Festival, a spectacular four-day event.

SEPTEMBER 20TH

Geeks Who Drink

McCall Plaza: 998 E 15th St, Plano, TX 75074 | 7:30 PM

Geeks Who Drink Pub Quiz at McCall Plaza! The trivia will be general knowledge, so build your team to answer a wide variety of questions on topics such as pop culture, music, history, food and drink, and some other surprises! They’ve gone paperless, so answers are submitted by one person on each team using their phone.

SEPTEMBER 20TH - 29TH

Minecraft Experience

2712 N Central Expwy., Plano TX 75074

Become the hero of Minecraft Experience: Villager Rescue! An in-person, immersive, interactive Minecraft adventure. Embark on a highstakes rescue mission and an interactive scavenger hunt through multiple Minecraft biomes and dimensions. You will forage for ingredients and mine precious ore, encounter friendly (and less friendly) mobs, take down skeletons, and explode creepers.

Student of the Month

Faizan Zaki: Rising Star in Spelling Competitions

Seventh grader Faizan Zaki chose to start spelling competitively in the first grade since it was fun. Once Faizan realized he was “pretty good” at it, it seemed he couldn’t be stopped from doing his best.

“Pretty good” can hardly describe the large collection of medals and trophies he has accumulated throughout the past few years. Faizan began seriously studying two years ago, often spending up to seven hours a day with his dictionary. His father beams when sharing about Faizan, showing how proud he is of both Faizan’s dedication to studying and his accomplishments. Faizan’s hard work led to him receiving the second place trophy for the Scripps National Spelling Bee. He is hoping he will win the first place prize next year!