Issuu

A P R I L 2 02 1

Let s' Hit the Road! TR AV E L

ROAD T RI P D ES T I NAT I O NS: F RED ERI C KSB U RG , WI M B ERLY, AN D PI ER 6 SE AFO O D & OYS T ER H O USE S T Y LE + B E AU T Y P L AC ES WE LOVE: OVM E LI F E + C U LTU R E AT H O M E WI T H RYAN AN D K AT PRES SLY

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

APRIL 2021 PUBLISHER

Kamilla Batchelor | kamilla.batchelor@lifestylepubs.com EDITOR

Let’s Hit the Road!

Gabi De la Rosa | gabi.delarosa@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER

Evan Deuvall

TEXAS LIKES TO SHOW OFF HER BEAUTY A COUPLE OF TIMES PER YEAR

L AYO UT DESIGNER

AND LUCKY FOR US, SPRING IS ONE OF THEM. Longer days, perfect tempera-

Jayme Emery

tures, and fields of wildflowers are springtime regulars in the Lone Star State, and we give you a glimpse of all three this month. We have three great road trip escapes that are sure to keep you occupied through Spring. Visit Fredericksburg, Wimberly, and take a drive for a great dinner at Pier

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Erica Hernandez, Radhika Patel CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Lauren Holub, Lauren Holub Photography Chris Spicks, Chris Spicks Photography

6 Seafood & Oyster House in San Leon, near Kemah. One taste of their perfectly plump Gulf coast oysters will have you coming back for more. There are also great articles about Houston’s new aesthetic spa OVME, as well as a peek inside the quiet home life of Astro’s pitcher Ryan Pressly and his wife Kat. Here’s to soaking in the rays and beautiful days this Spring. Stay safe & healthy, Houston!

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

Gabi De la Rosa, Editor

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

CityLifestyle.com/RiverOaks ON THE COVER Texas Hill Country PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHUTTERSTOCK 4

River Oaks Lifestyle | April 2021

Proverbs 3:5-6 River Oaks Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the River Oaks area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in River Oaks Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

INSIDE THE ISSUE APRIL 2021 FEATURES 12 Road Trip Destination: Fredericksburg Plan a springtime road trip to the Texas Hill Country and fall in love with Fredericksburg.

16 Pier 6 Brings the Flavor Views, delicious food, and a vibrant atmosphere - Pier 6 has it all, including their famous oysters.

22 At Home With Ryan and Kat Pressly Ryan and Kat Pressly take us inside their quiet home life and share news about their growing family.

26 Texas Hill Country Escape Escape with a romantic journey to

26 22

an alluring Texas Hill Country bed and breakfast.

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

Good Times

Around Town

Road Trip

Culinary Creations

20 Healthy lifestyle 26 Inspired By 28 Local’s Choice 31 DIY 34 Local Limelight

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GOOD TIMES

The Houstonian Hotel Hosts Inaugural BBQ on the Bayou Cook-Off The familiar smell of smoking pits filled the air on February 28th when over 100 guests gathered outdoors for some delicious BBQ, and a socially distanced BBQ cook-off at the Manor House at The Houstonian. Five official cook teams competed in the Inaugural BBQ on the Bayou Cook-Off for bragging rights and trophies decided by celebrity judge Levi Goode. Guests enjoyed country music, outdoor seating on the back lawn of the Manor House, cocktails and all the brisket, chicken, and ribs they could eat. Photo Credit, Daniel Ortiz.

1. Five Cook Teams competed with ribs, brisket and chicken | 2. Houstonian Hotel General Manager Steve Fronterhouse, Executive Chef Neal Cox and Celebrity Judge Levi Goode | 3. Natalie Flores and Riley Cox

American Heart Association “The Heart of Houston” Virtual Gala The American Heart Association (AHA) hosted its first virtual gala, The Heart of Houston, in place of its annual Heart Ball. On Thursday, February 11th, AHA raised $1.5 million to fund its research and education programs that will improve the health and well-being of our neighbors and ultimately save lives from heart disease and stroke. Photo Credit, PWL Studios.

1. Russ and Judy Labrasca | 2. April and Dr. Jorge Salazar | 3. Jerry and Lisa Simon

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River Oaks Lifestyle | April 2021

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AROUND TOWN Houston Grand Opera, and OPERA San Antonio. Photo Credit Dario Acosta. texasoperaalliance.org

HOUSTONIAN DEBUTS CHILDREN’S BOOK ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF HARD WORK Misty M. Wall is a certified public accountant and a mom on a mission to teach her son about money management and accounting. She wrote Molly

BLUDORN PASTRY CHEF, ALEJANDRA SALAS MAKES HER MARK

Earns Her Pie as a playful way to introduce her son

Spanish native, Alejandra Salas, leads the pastry

to the lifelong lesson that money must be earned.

program at Houston’s lauded Bludorn. Having lived

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of desserts. Prior to joining the team, Alejandra trained at New York’s International Culinary Center (formerly known as the French Culinary Institute) before joining Michelin-starred Bar Boulud. She has studied under the country’s most prestigious chefs including Nobu’s Chef Alejandro Briceno and Michelin-starred Thomas Keller. Photo Credit Alex Montoya bludornrestaurant.com

TEXAS OPERA ALLIANCE NAMES RYAN SPEEDO GREEN AS ITS FIRST ARTIST IN RESIDENCE The Texas Opera Alliance announced that acclaimed bass-baritone Ryan Speedo Green will be its first Artist in Residence. Beginning in March and culminating with his performance at the Austin Opera’s An All-Star Concert, Green will participate in a variety of outreach and performance pro-

THE HOUSTONIAN CLUB BEGINS A $23.5M RENOVATION

grams for the Alliance’s five member companies:

The Houstonian Club, a nationally recognized

Austin Opera, The Dallas Opera, Fort Worth Opera,

health and fitness facility of The Houstonian

River Oaks Lifestyle | April 2021

Hotel, Club & Spa and a Forbes Four-Star prop-

within the park, or create memories by rolling

erty, began a $23.5 million renovation plan in

down the hill on the back lawn of Miller Outdoor

March. Renovation plans include a new indoor

Theatre. Hermann Park is located in one of the

and outdoor restaurant overlooking the resort

most picturesque areas of Houston. Nestled in

and sports pool areas, redesign and expansion of

between the Museum District, the Texas Medical

multiple group exercise studios, new indoor turfed

Center and Rice University, Hermann Park pro-

performance zone, and renovated childcare areas.

vides Houstonians with plenty of greenspace to

The renovation will take place in three phases

enjoy Houston’s temperate climate. Hermann

over 18 to 24 months in order to minimize the

Park is one of Houston’s first parks and is one of

disruption to programs, services and members’

the premiere parks in the department’s inven-

experience. houstonian.com/the-club

tory of parks. hermannpark.org @hermannpark

HERMANN PARK LANDS IN THE TOP THREE BEST CITY PARKS Hermann Park was recently awarded third in the USA Today’s Reader’s Choice Awards for Best City Parks. The beloved 445-acre urban park was selected as one of 20 nominees by a panel of experts and voting was open to the public. Enjoy the park itself, or take in the adja-

Would you like to get in touch with us? We would

cent attractions, including the Houston Zoo,

love to hear from you! Contact us at CityLifestyle.

the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the

com/RiverOaks using the Get In Touch link and let

Cockrell Butterfly Center, run the 1.4-mile loop

us know what you think.

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ROAD TRIP

Enchanted Rock, Photo Credit Steve Rawls

ROA D T R I P DE S T I N AT IO N : F R E DE R IC K S BU RG

Sunday House, Photo Credit Marc Bennett

PLAN A SPRINGTIME ROAD TRIP TO THE TEXAS HILL COUNTRY AND FALL IN LOVE WITH FREDERICKSBURG.

River Oaks Lifestyle | April 2021

ARTICLE GABI DE LA ROSA

La Bergerie, Photo Credit Eva Simpson

THE TEXAS HILL COUNTRY HAS BEEN A MECCA FOR

houses are available on Airbnb or VRBO, but you’ve got

TRAVELERS FOR CENTURIES. Before Germans settled in

to be quick because they rent out very quickly – visitors

Fredericksburg in the mid-1800s, its scenic vistas, an abun-

love their history and Texas charm.

dance of fertile soil, and temperate climate were a favorite of the Native Americans. These days, Fredericksburg is a modern convergence of German, Spanish, and Mexican cultures, culminating in a unique experience.

DO Anyone visiting Fredericksburg will have an abundance of activities at their fingertips. One of the most popular

Lured by its small-town atmosphere coupled with all

outdoor attractions is Enchanted Rock. Located 18 miles

the amenities of a larger city, guests seeking relaxation,

north of the city, the pink granite rock dates back more

beautiful views, and plenty of outdoor fun have a great

than one billion years and offers visitors hiking, camp-

deal to enjoy. Its location in the center of Texas makes it a

ing, and picnicking opportunities. If you’re searching

prime weekend destination for travelers, as well.

for beautiful Texas views, LBJ State Park & Historic Site

This year, Fredericksburg will celebrate its 175th

provides them and so much more. The working ranch

anniversary, making it a perfect time to plan a get-

is a throwback to ranches of the 1960s and ‘70s during

away. You’re never more than a few miles away from

President Johnson’s era. Visitors can catch a glimpse of

great food and wine, exciting history, or a beautiful

cattle, longhorn, and even bison on the property, as well

outdoor setting to explore.

as take in the President’s home nicknamed “The Texas Whitehouse” and his private plane nicknamed “Airforce

STAY

One Half” because of its small size. Sauer-Beckmann

Fredericksburg is famous for its charming Sunday

Living History Farm, adjacent to LBJ Ranch, is also worth

Houses. The small cottage-like houses are available to

a visit. It is a unique historical experience with park rang-

rent throughout the city and were built in the 19th cen-

ers wearing period clothing and working on the farm

tury as second houses for German families who lived in

using methods from the 1800s.

remote areas. The drive to church each week was too

As much as Fredericksburg is known for its Texas

long to make in one day, so the families popularized

charm and history, it is also known for its shopping.

the second dwelling for weekend use. The modernized

Main Street is bustling with specialized boutiques,

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/RiverOaks

ROAD TRIP (CONTINUED)

Fredericksburg Main Street

Signor Vineyards, Photo Credit Fredericksburg CVB

out. If you are planning a meal with your wine tasting, Signor Winery offers gourmet bites to pair perfectly with their wine. The fourth-generation Texas family takes pride in their beautifully modern setting and upscale atmosphere. art galleries, and home décor. Visit Flying Cow

Husband and wife team John and Evelyn Washburn

Tallow for a distinctive take on skincare, as well

might be the king and queen of Fredericksburg food-

as ultra-chic San Saba Soap Company for deca-

ies. Together they own four restaurants ranging from

dent smelling sundries. If you are on the hunt for

upscale German cuisine at Otto’s German Bistro to

art, Artisans, A Texas Gallery offers a wealth of

family-friendly Tubby’s Ice House, La Bergerie, a wine

Texas-made art with everything from sculptures,

and cheese shop, as well as Caliche Coffee Bar. Any

pottery, paintings, and jewelry.

one of their four establishments is worth a stop – the couple’s attention to not only atmosphere but flavors

EAT/DRINK

make each dining experience commendable.

With more than 50 wineries and tasting rooms

Altstadt Brewery, ranked 4th top brewery in

in the city, Fredericksburg is in the heart of Texas

America, is an expansive brewery, restaurant, and

wine country. Texas ranks 5th on the list of most

Biergarten. There is no need to get out your passport

wine-making facilities per state, and wine lovers

for a traditional German experience with live German

will enjoy every type and variety of Texas-made

music on weekends and a Bavarian-inspired menu.

vino. Kick off your tour with a visit to Narrow Path

You’ll also want to save room for the many snacks and

Winery, a family-owned boutique winery offering

treats Fredericksburg has to offer. Fuel up for your

small-batch wines. Be sure to pick up a bottle of

days of exploring at Twisted Sisters Bake Shop and

their flavorful rosé and viognier before they sell

stop in for a giant pretzel at Pritzer Sweet Shop.

River Oaks Lifestyle | April 2021

CULINARY CREATIONS

PIER 6 BRINGS THE FLAVOR

VIEWS, DELICIOUS FOOD, AND A VIBRANT ATMOSPHERE - PIER 6 SEAFOOD & OYSTER HOUSE HAS IT ALL, INCLUDING THEIR FAMOUS OYSTERS.

PIER 6 SEAFOOD & OYSTER HOUSE IN SAN LEON, NEAR KEMAH, IS THE BRAINCHILD OF LIFELONG OYSTERMAN RAZ HALILI WHOSE FAMILY HAS BEEN OYSTER FISHING ON THE GULF COAST SINCE THE 1970S. After years of running the family’s business, Prestige Oysters, Halili decided to take the next step and open a restaurant showcasing the Texas Gulf Coast’s bounty. To ensure delicious flavors and innovation in the kitchen, he tapped award-winning chef Jose Cervantez, best known for his time at Brennan’s of Houston. About an hour’s drive from Houston, the restaurant sits right on the water, offering beautiful views and abundant indoor and outdoor seating. The menu is full of seafood classics like Shrimp Cocktail and Grilled Tuna, but executive chef Cervantez also lets his talent shine with dishes like Tuna Tostada and Piri Piri Grilled Shrimp. The cocktail menu is robust and fun – try a frozen flight and enjoy the Gulf Coast breeze. Don’t let the drive warn you off the popular restaurant - guests can make dining at Pier 6 a weekend affair by staying at The Bungalows at Pier 6, the restaurant’s luxury condominiums. Newly constructed with large rooms, beautiful decor, and gorgeous sunset views – they are the perfect destination for a quick weekend getaway.

River Oaks Lifestyle | April 2021

Photo Credit Isabel Protomartir

PIER 6 ARTICLE GABI DE LA ROSA

The waterfront restaurant offers great views, abundant indoor and patio seating, as well as a large wraparound oyster bar. Designed by Coeval Studio,

Photo Credit Swiggard Creative

the space combines clean lines and natural elements with pops of fun décor.

Just like the restaurant, The Bungalows at Pier 6 are located right on the water offering guests beautiful views and a unique luxury experience.

Photo Credit Dragana Harris

The beverage program at Pier 6 is just as robust as their dining menu. Featuring a seafood-friendly wine list, local craft beer and delicious craft cocktails developed by Ladies of Libation.

Photo Credit Sabrina Miskelly CityLifestyle.com/RiverOaks

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HEALTHY LIFESTYLE MEMORIAL HERMANN UNIVERSITY PLACE HOSTS MULTIPLE COVID-19 VACCINATION CLINICS FOR RESIDENTS AND EMPLOYEES

ARTICLE RIVER OAKS LIFESTYLE STAFF

PRO T EC T I NG OU R S E N IOR LI V I N G R E S I D E NT S MEMORIAL HERMANN’S UNIVERSITY PLACE, A SET OF INDEPENDENT SENIOR APARTMENTS LOCATED ADJACENT TO MEMORIAL HERMANN

SOUTHWEST

HOSPITAL,

HAS

TAKEN THE STEPS TO VACCINATE 96 PERCENT OF RESIDENTS THROUGH A SERIES OF VACCINATION CLINICS AT THE FACILITY. “By having such a high percentage of our campus residents vaccinated, the primary benefit is that the residents are more protected against COVID-19 and its debilitating symptoms,” said Paul Friesen, Vice President of Operations at University Place. “We now see residents much more confident in socializing and engaging in activities. Most were hesitant over the past year because they didn’t feel comfortable. Even with following CDC and state guidelines, we see

Friesen says to eliminate long wait times, all residents filled out

more and more residents leaving their apartments

the appropriate CVS forms and the staff uploaded these to CVS

and enjoying what our community provides.”

prior to the clinic start times. This provided residents with a very

As Houston’s only senior living community owned by a health system, University Place is designed to encourage active lifestyles and free residents from

quick, efficient vaccination experience. In addition to the residents, vaccinating the staff was a top priority for University Place.

some of the daily routines that would otherwise

“Since our staff has such close contact with residents, it is impera-

limit their choices. Activities and resources include

tive that they be vaccinated,” Friesen said. “This not only protects our

special interest clubs, a library, woodworking shop,

staff, but also our residents. By increasing our staff vaccination rate,

private garden, volunteer programs and more.

we have a better chance of maintaining a safe environment for all.”

With University Place’s emphasis on freeing

To-date, University Place has hosted three on-site vaccination

residents from worries and limitations, it was

clinics. While vaccinations were optional for all residents and

imperative that the vaccination process be

staff, most made the decision to receive the vaccine. University

accessible and seamless.

Place will continue to address vaccination needs as new resi-

“Our goal was to vaccinate as many of our campus

dents or employees join the community in the future.

residents as possible,” Friesen explained. “In order to do this, we needed to find a user-friendly approach to vaccinations. We spoke to CVS Pharmacy and were able to develop a plan to provide on-site vaccination clinics to not only our nursing home residents, but all of our independent living residents.” 20

River Oaks Lifestyle | April 2021

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Move in now to receive two months free rent! Call 713.541.2900 to schedule a tour and receive a $15 Starbucks gift card. memorialhermann.org/retirenow

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at home with ryan and kat pressly ARTICLE GABI DE LA ROSA

PHOTOGRAPHY LAUREN HOLUB

KAT PRESSLY AND HER ASTROS BASEBALL PLAYER HUSBAND RYAN TAKE US INSIDE THEIR QUIET HOME LIFE AND SHARE NEWS ABOUT THEIR GROWING FAMILY.

LIKE IT DID FOR MANY OF US, COVID-19 DERAILED

Presslys, who celebrated their first anniversary in January, took

PLANS FOR RYAN AND KAT PRESSLY. Major League

up gardening in Houston and at their ranch outside Dallas

Baseball postponed the start of its 2020 season, which

and enjoyed their time together as a newly married couple.

allowed Ryan, pitcher for the Houston Astros, to trade

Although they planned an extended honeymoon to coincide

long hours on the field and traveling with his teammates

with Ryan's offseason, the trip had to be postponed, as well,

for extended quality time with his wife and two dogs. The

and was instead spent appreciating quiet time at home.

River Oaks Lifestyle | April 2021

The self-professed homebodies wouldn't have it any other way. A

much diversity in the homes here," says Kat. "There aren't as many

typical night includes eating dinner, Ryan handles the grill while Kat

rules about what you can do with your architecture, and no matter

prepares the side dishes and salad, and a long bike ride through the

what neighborhood you are in, you can walk around and find differ-

neighborhood with their two large dogs. "Ryan has always been a

ent styles and ways of living."

huge homebody, and I think a mixture of being with Ryan and also

One thing the couple can agree on is enjoying Ryan's offseason on

COVID has made me learn to appreciate being home more, too,"

their ranch. They broke ground on a ranch house in January and hope

says Kat. "People have this expectation that baseball players like to

to have the home completed by November. Planning the open concept

be out partying, but honestly, the last thing Ryan wants to do after

ranch retreat is a favorite pastime for Kat. She draws inspiration from

practice or a game is party."

their travels and social media, magazines and has also taken an interest

The new year has brought about some changes to their housing situation, as well. The couple decided to sell their traditional

in reading about architecture. "We are keeping the ranch house neutral and bringing in a lot of natural elements and color with the décor."

home in Houston's West University area and move into a condo in

The couple is also planning for another significant addition, this

the Montrose neighborhood. Kat, a realtor with Greenwood King

time to their family – they are expecting a baby boy in July. "When

Properties, says she and Ryan haven't decided where to put down

Ryan found out we are having a boy, he threw his fists in the air. We

permanent roots because of his baseball schedule. They also haven't

are both so excited to see what the next few months have in store

decided on their ideal home aesthetic, and Kat credits being a realtor

for us," says the newly pregnant Kat. "I really wanted to have extra

with opening her up to different home styles. "The thing that I love

time with Ryan before we started our family, and the time we spent

about Houston, especially compared to other cities, is that there is so

together during the pandemic has given that to us."

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INSPIRED BY

texas hill country escape ESCAPE WITH A ROMANTIC JOURNEY TO AN ALLURING TEXAS HILL COUNTRY BED AND BREAKFAST.

ONCE THE SITE OF AN OLD MILL, THE CREEKHAVEN INN SITS ON THE EDGE OF CYPRESS CREEK IN WIMBERLEY, A SCENIC HILL COUNTRY PLAYGROUND BETWEEN SAN ANTONIO AND AUSTIN. The romantic lodge is nestled in a picturesque property thick with gnarly cypress, sycamore and pecan trees. Guests can meander along its private creekside, watch birds and native deer or rest easy beneath Creekhaven’s eclectic greenhouse patio. “The energy is indescribable, but definitely palatable,” says Helena Hauk, who owns Creekhaven Inn along with her husband, Don Huak. The couple purchased the bed and breakfast just two years ago, upgrading facilities and adding their own twist to the property’s nearly 100-yearold history. Creekhaven’s natural beauty, set atop the rocky Edwards Plateau, is a stark contrast to Cypress' grassy, urban terrain. Summers are less humid and its distance from sprawling cities make for quiet, relaxing evenings. The shade from Creekhaven’s ancient trees and its proximity to the creek, keeps the property even cooler than nearby Wimberley. Each guest room at the Creekhaven boasts its own unique personality. The spacious Bluebonnet room is painted a deep navy and styled with ornate furniture. The Cherokee Rose room is adorned with bold reds paired with vibrant textures. Guests can lounge on private balconies overlooking the creek, cozy up to a gas-burning ARTICLE ERICA HERNANDEZ PHOTOGRAPHY CREEKHAVEN INN 26

River Oaks Lifestyle | April 2021

fireplace or soak in their room’s oversized jetted tubs. High-speed wireless internet connects the entire property. As a recent property upgrade, Helena and Don Hauk constructed a dedicated spa where guests can book massages and essential oil treatments. Guests can relax alone or join their significant other for a couple’s massage. Creekhaven’s prime location makes it an ideal getaway for those wanting to relax or explore nearby attractions such as wineries, art galleries, swimming or hiking. “You can come out and pack your days or be lazy and hang out by the water,” Helena says. “The Texas Hill Country is abundant with unique interests, and it is all well within 30 minutes to an hour of Creekhaven!” Creekhaven boasts a nearly 100-year-old history. The location - once a working mill site -supplied power and irrigation to landowners nearby until the 1930s. The owner at the time built a small fishing cabin, adding to the location's appeal as a woodsy retreat and campground. In 1979, Jimmy and Barbara Ireland, of River Oaks, purchased the property, restored the fishing cabin, built new rooms and installed a stone waterfall. Jimmy, an engineer, carefully sourced native stones from the Wimberley Valley and cedar lumber so his construction designs could blend into the natural landscape. The couple also built a quaint greenhouse where Barbara could grow orchids. The greenhouse’s metal skeleton still stands today. After her husband’s death, Barbara renamed the property the Singing Cypress Gardens and in 1983 began renting rooms, establishing the location as Wimberley’s first bed and breakfast. Years later, the Huaks expanded the property to sixteen rooms, making Creekhaven Wimberley’s largest bed and breakfast. CreekHavenInn.com 512-847-9344 400 Mill Race Lane Wimberley, Texas

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LOCAL’S CHOICE

Laura Lancaster, co-owner of Sunny Road Interiors.

“I WANT EVERYONE TO FEEL LIKE THEY MATTER. I FOCUS ON LISTENING TO OUR CLIENTS TO BETTER UNDERSTAND THEIR LIKES AND NEEDS.” 28

River Oaks Lifestyle | April 2021

ARTICLE RADHIKA PATEL PHOTOGRAPHY CHRIS SPICKS PHOTOGRAPHY

Transform your

LIVI NG S PACE HOUSTON’S DESIGN CENTER SUNNYROAD INTERIORS HELPS CLIENTS TURN THEIR IDEAS AND INSPIRATION INTO REALITY. SUNNYROAD INTERIORS IS A HOUSTON DESIGN CENTER

through the door is where Lancaster’s team truly shines. The designers

KNOWN FOR ITS IMPECCABLE FABRICS AND HOME DECOR.

take the time to do thorough research on their clients’ needs, style, and

With more than thirty years of experience, clients can expect bespoke

what will function best in their home. “Everyone is different, so it is very

quality and design innovation.

important to remember that it is their style, not yours.”

Laura Lancaster, co-owner of Sunnyroad Interiors, managed the

Paying homage to her Swedish roots, Sunnyroad Interiors is

buying at her parent’s shoe store in the early 1970s. Realizing her

named after Lancaster’s beloved mother, whose name translates

passion for design, Lancaster went on to study fashion merchan-

from Swedish to English as “sun road.” The business’ logo, a Swedish

dising and fell in love with fabrics, “I love creating something out of

horse, is also a tribute to Lancaster’s heritage - each element is well

nothing, I can see what it will become.”

thought out and reflects the business itself. All the custom pieces are

Fast forward nearly four decades, Sunnyroad Interiors is a place where all ideas and inspiration are welcomed, “I want everyone to feel like they matter. I focus on listening to our clients to better understand their likes and needs,” says Lancaster.

made on-site from start to finish, and clients can even sit on sample pieces of furniture to experience the desired comfort level. Whether you’re walking in or have an appointment, the design team at Sunnyroad encourages clients to bring ideas and photo

This attention to detail is what sets the family-run business apart

inspiration. The design experts will transform ideas into a reality

from its competition. Whether the project is as small as designing a

using the highest quality materials and standards. Lancaster likes to

pillow or as large as designing an entire house, the client is always front

say, “If you can dream it, Sunnyroad Interiors can create it.”

and center. Creating a bond and understanding the person who walks CityLifestyle.com/RiverOaks

GET INSPIRED EAT + DRINK SHOP LOCAL City Lifestyle

River Oaks Lifestyle | April 2021

YOUR DIGITAL DESTINATION FOR LOCAL LIVING

DIY

Benefits of a

chemical-free home

HAVE YOU EVER CONSIDERED WHAT IT WOULD TAKE TO TURN YOUR HOUSEHOLD CHEMICAL-FREE? It's not as hard as you might think! We hear a lot about the dangers of chemical ingredients, but it's easy to ignore all of the warnings and keep using our favorite products. When you don't know of a better alternative, it's just what you do! However, all of those ingredients add up and can make a big difference in your health, as well as the health of your family and pets. The products that are most important to swap out depend on your lifestyle and what you use the most. If your little ones are eating food right off of the counter, you might consider the ingredients from the cleaner you just used to wipe it down and start by switching to a natural method.

ARTICLE HAYLEY HYER

If you have sensitive skin, you might start by taking inventory of your beauty and personal care products to see what you can replace. To get you started, here are three DIY products that you can make yourself for your chemical-free home.

CONTINUED >

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DIY (CONTINUED)

DIY Scented Body Moisturizer Just like a new candle can brighten your day, a shimmery scented lotion can make you feel like a queen. The only problem is all of the artificial fragrances, alcohols, dyes, and other chemicals that your skin is absorbing from that bottle. There are some cleaner options such as unscented lotions, but that's a lot less fun. This DIY moisturizer allowed you to customize your own scent while still treating your skin the best you can. The key ingredient? Olive oil! Yes, any bottle of olive oil from your kitchen works. Pour some in a smaller bottle and add several drops of your favorite essential oils. Olive oil is super hydrating, feels great, and will make you question why you ever used lotion in the first place. Plus it's safe for your whole body. Just be mindful of the essential oils you choose. Some types—such as peppermint, eucalyptus, or tea tree oils—cause a cooling effect and can feel uncomfortable if it gets on your face or other sensitive areas.

DIY Counter Cleaner: Safe for Granite + Marble! You probably know that vinegar is a great natural cleaner for most surfaces. Unfortunately, it can be pretty damaging to delicate countertops made from granite or marble. Here's a DIY cleaning spray that's safe for any type of counters you have!

Ingredients + Rubbing alcohol + Dish soap

+ Essential Oils + Water

Directions In a plastic or glass spray bottle, mix one part alcohol with one part water. Add several drops of dish soap and whichever essential oils you would like to add for your desired scent. Shake it up each time you use it as the ingredients will tend to separate. Although it's natural and safe, still avoid spraying directly on your skin as the alcohol and dish soap can dry you out.

River Oaks Lifestyle | April 2021

DIY Laundry Scent Enhancer If you have ever added those popular scent beads to your load of laundry before, you know how lovely it is to pull your amazingly scented clothes out of the dryer. The funny thing about a product like that is it truly has no purpose other than adding a good smell, but it does add lots of chemicals to your daily life! There's a safer and more beneficial way to make your clothes smell heavenly. Try this DIY scent enhancer with your next load of laundry and put it to the test.

Ingredients 3 parts Epsom Salt + 1 part Baking Soda + Essential Oils

Directions Mix your ingredients together in a jar or canister and scoop about ¼ cup directly into the washer basin before adding the clothes—just like you would with scented beads. Continue with your laundry like normal.

Learn More

While these three recipes give you a great start, that's definitely not all you can do to kick the chemicals out of your home. For more information on starting a chemical-free household, you can browse online resources such as ChemFreeCom.com or find a social media group to join with like-minded people who have some experience from their own trial and error. If you get overwhelmed, remember that you don't have to get rid of all chemicals in one day. Every swap you make is something to celebrate!

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LOCAL LIMELIGHT

P L AC E S W E LOV E : OV M E

HOUSTON’S NEWEST MEDICAL AESTHETIC STUDIO IS DELIVERING LUXURY AND TOP-OF-THE-LINE SKINCARE IN RIVER OAKS.

OVME (PRONOUNCED “OF ME”), THE RAPIDLY GROWING MEDICAL AESTHETICS BRAND, OPENED ITS FIRST HOUSTON LOCATION IN JANUARY. Specializing in minimally invasive cosmetic procedures, their new studio offers a wide variety of services in a luxurious setting - their largest location to date. “I’m absolutely thrilled to bring OVME to Houston, one of the most vibrant, culturally diverse cities in America.” ARTICLE RIVER OAKS LIFESTYLE STAFF | PHOTOGRAPHY MARCIN CYMMER

Says Dr. Mark McKenna, founder, and CEO of OVME. “Our

team is ready to serve this community. For OVME, it’s all about providing our clients with superior cosmetic outcomes every time. We’re also excited to engage the city’s thriving arts, business, and philanthropic communities. Houston feels like home.” OVME is known for its monthly memberships, which provide

year-long

product

and

service

discounts.

Members receive complimentary weekly B-12 shots, guaranteed same-day Botox appointments, and VIP access to OVME events. There are two memberships available. The Elite Membership is $99 per month and offers a wide

The brand prides itself on providing age-appropriate

range of discounts, and the Access Membership is $50

skincare and recognizes that each client is a walking

per month and has many of the same benefits at a more

billboard for their services. Clients will hear the term

affordable price point.

“fresh not frozen” in reference to their natural and

“Our members pop in every month to get their facial

youthful approach to skincare.

or even weekly for their B-12 shot,” says Dina Forsyth,

Services include Botox, dermal fillers, laser resur-

Advanced Aesthetic Injector. “We tailor our skincare to

facing, photo facials, and HydraFacials. OVME is also

each individual. Great skincare is a journey, and we all

known for their cutting-edge products and offer a

deserve it – especially right now.”

curated roster of products from popular brands like

Each client receives a complimentary skin analysis that sets the tone for the type of skincare they will receive.

River Oaks Lifestyle | April 2021

SkinMedica and Revision, along with their bespoke brand of medical-grade skincare products.

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