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LIFESTYLE LETTER
What’s Your Style?
September 2025 PUBLISHER
Style is one of the most personal and powerful forms of self-expression. It speaks before words do—and tells the world who we are, what we value, and how we choose to live. In this special Style Issue, we’re honoring the many ways people define and refine their personal aesthetic—through fashion, beauty, home design, and beyond. But style isn’t just about what’s on the outside. It’s a reflection of the inside, of personality and creativity, confidence and individuality. Whether it’s the perfect outfit that makes you feel unstoppable, the way you style your hair or makeup to highlight your favorite features, or the thoughtful details in your home that make every guest feel welcome—style is everywhere. What’s most exciting about style is that there’s no one-size-fits-all. It evolves with us over time, shifting with seasons, moods, and moments. Some days it’s bold and daring; others it’s effortless and minimal. And that’s the beauty of it. Your style doesn’t need permission or approval. It simply needs to be yours. As you explore the stories in this issue, we hope you feel inspired to embrace your own unique style story—whatever it looks like. Take risks, experiment, play with color and texture. Mix high and low. Vintage and modern. Keep what speaks to you and let go of what doesn’t. Use your surroundings, your wardrobe, and your voice to express the most authentic version of you. Because at the end of the day, true style doesn’t just make a statement. It tells your story. Here’s to living boldly, beautifully, and unapologetically in style. With Regards,
Angi Burns | angi.burns@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R
Deborah Dove | debie.dove@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R I AL C O O R D I N ATO R
Valerie Merrick | valerie.merrick@citylifestyle.com P U B L I CAT I O N D I R E C TO R
Kathy Moreno | kathy.moreno@citylifestyle.com AC C O U N T M AN AG E R S
Brittany McCaffety brittany.mccaffety@citylifestyle.com, Morganne Eikelbarner morganne.eikelbarner@citylifestyle.com STAF F W R I T E R S
Avery Burns, Fatima Durrani STAF F P H OTO G R AP H E R S
Adeline Merrick: Merrick Multimedia, Heather Caplick: Heather Lanae Photography CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Pam Reid, Tyler Amadeus, Adrien King, Alec Walworth
Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt COO Matthew Perry CRO Jamie Pentz VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich
ANGI BURNS, PUBLISHER @ R O C K WA L LC I T Y L I F E S T Y L E Are you on the association board for your subdivision? We would love to partner with you to host our events in your neighborhood! Do you have someone you would like to nominate for Student, Educator, Veteran, Athlete, Artist, Good Human, Non-Profit or First Responder of the Month? Contact us for information on how you or your nominee can be included in upcoming articles. We encourage you to share your events and ideas with us. Just give us a shout. We want to hear from you.
LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Rockwall City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Rockwall area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle
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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R
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 Rockwall City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.
inside the issue SE PT EMBER 2 0 2 5 | ST Y L E
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Featured
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24 30 6
30 On the Cover
Wash, Blo, Go
The Empowering Experience of a Professional Blowout
Your Home’s Personality
Transforming Spaces into Something Meaningful and Personalized
Designer Audrey Lé Carrying a Legacy Forward
When Inspiration Strikes
A Community-Focused Business Provides Style and Service for Every Budget
Model: Victoria Coker
Departments 4
Lifestyle Letter
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City Scene
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Hair Care BEAUTY
Photography: Heather Caplick: Heather Lanae Photography
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Home Update HOME + DESIGN
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Fashion Forward SHOPPING
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Decor Trends HOME + DESIGN
www.heatherlanae photography.com
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Trend Setter STYLE + BEAUTY
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Realty Report REAL ESTATE
(903) 570-7838
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Local Limelight LOCAL SERVICES
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Events
SEPTEMBER 2025
city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
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1 -14: Rockwall City Lifestyle recently hosted its monthly Networking Happy Hour at Sear Steakhouse & Lounge, bringing together local business professionals for a fun and friendly evening of conversation and connection. The event is held on the third Wednesday of each month. A big thank-you to Sear for being such a fantastic host each month. Everyone is welcome—whether you’re a small business owner, entrepreneur, or just looking to meet new people in the community. Be sure to follow Rockwall City Lifestyle on social media for details on next month’s event. Photography by Merrick Multimedia
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C I T Y SC E N E
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Want to be seen in the magazine? TA G Y O U R I N S TA G R A M P H O T O S W I T H @ R O C K W A L L C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E
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WA S H , BL O, G O
The Empowering Experience of a Professional Blowout
ARTICLE BY FATIMA DURRANI PHOTOGRAPHY BY HEATHER CAPLICK: HEATHER LANAE PHOTOGRAPHY
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H AIR CA R E | BEAUTY
The philosophy behind Blo Blow Dry Bar is simple: give people the power to feel runway-ready at a moment’s notice. No cuts, no color; just wash, blow, and go. In a world where time is short, this concept has “blown” up in popularity! Blo Blow Dry Bar Rockwall officially opened its doors in 2023. “Whether it’s for a weekly blowout, special event styling,
“Beauty doesn't have to be complicated to be transformational. Exploring personal style starts by tuning into what makes you feel confident and comfortable.” or a moment of self-care, we’ve become a trusted destination for beauty and confidence in the Rockwall area,” reflects Velma McMillan, owner and operator. Every day, Velma’s passion for empowering women and helping them feel confident and celebrated shines clearly in her work, where she blends business leadership with creativity. Her first step is to help women explore their personal style, but make it easy for them to maintain too. “Beauty doesn't have to be complicated to be transformational. Exploring personal style starts by tuning into what makes you feel confident and comfortable. At Blo, every service begins with a consultation. We listen to your lifestyle, your goals, and how you want to feel when you leave. Whether you prefer sleek and straight, soft curls, or a voluminous blowout, we tailor every appointment to reflect your individuality. We don’t just offer a hairstyle—we offer a moment of selfcare, empowerment, and consistency.”
Velma realizes that beauty is more than skin deep. “It’s also important to care for your hair beyond the chair. Hair color, product selection, and daily wellness habits all influence your style. For example, eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins A, C, and E and staying hydrated can significantly improve shine and strength. We help clients choose salon-grade products that match their hair type and goals, so they can maintain a healthy, stylish look at home. “Hair beauty is personal power. It’s not about perfection or passing trends—it’s about self-expression, wellness, and confidence. When your hair reflects how you feel inside, you carry that energy into everything you do. That sense of being seen, styled with intention, and uplifted—that’s the essence of hair beauty to me. "Hair beauty is also a form of care. It’s the time you carve out to invest in yourself. It’s knowing that your outer look mirrors your inner strength. Whether it's CONTINUED > S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / R O C KWA L L
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sleek and polished, tousled and textured, or bold and voluminous, hair becomes a visual expression of who you are and how you show up in the world. At Blo, you’re not just getting a blowout, you’re stepping into your power with every strand.” While styling is Blo’s specialty, hair health is its foundation. Here are Velma's tips for following a consistent routine to maximize hair health: • Scalp Wellness: Use exfoliating scrubs, nourishing oils, and gentle massaging to improve scalp health and promote healthy growth. • Hydration and Repair Treatments: Consider deep-conditioning add-ons (especially popular in the Texas climate). They help replenish moisture, smooth frizz, and protect against environmental stress and daily styling. • Heat Protection and Blowout Longevity: Be educated on how to protect your hair from heat while preserving your style, using the right products and tools. • Whole-Body Hair Wellness: Be aware of how lifestyle affects hair—from staying hydrated and eating nutrient-rich foods to stress reduction and sleep. It’s all connected, and Blo supports that holistic mindset in every consultation. While Blo caters to a diverse clientele—including young students inspired by social trends; professional women and busy moms who need polished, manageable looks that last through their packed schedules; and mature clients who prioritize shine, smoothness, and bounce—this emphasis on healthy hair is truly timeless. Blo’s focus on its popular Signature Blowout is a tangible business differentiator. While other salons split their attention across a wide range of services, Blo has mastered one: the perfect blowout. “We don’t alter the structure or color of your hair.
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H AIR CA R E | BEAUTY
“Blo’s focus on its popular Signature Blowout is a tangible business differentiator. While other salons split their attention across a wide range of services, Blo has mastered one: the perfect blowout.”
Instead, we elevate what you already have, helping you look and feel your best without the need for scissors or dye,” reflects Velma. At the same time, Blo salon staff advise clients on all the latest trends, which continue to highlight effortless style, radiant shine, and whole-hair wellness. Here’s what’s trending in the world of hair fashion: • Textured Blowouts: This airy, voluminous look adds natural movement and is perfect for clients who want that “undone but done” aesthetic. It's one of the most requested styles. • Undone Waves and Lived-In Finishes: Casual elegance continues to trend with soft,
tousled waves and effortless bends that bring out the natural beauty in each client’s hair • Glossy, Polished Blowouts: Shine is making a big comeback. Blo uses heat-protecting, shine-enhancing products and round-brush techniques to create smooth, reflective finishes that feel as luxurious as they look. • Half-Up Styles and Soft Braids: Whether it's for an event or everyday glam, these romantic, face-framing looks remain in high demand—playful, polished, and photo-ready. Ready to feel your best? For more info, visit www.blomedry.com/blo-rockwall or call 469-769-1015.
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Design. Build. Live.
Your Ideas, Our Expertise—Creating Homes That Work & Inspire
Let us help bring your vision to life with beautiful, functional design solutions. We offer full-service renovations with an insured team dedicated to excellence.
to all new customers for accent walls this month
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717-449-9427
ARTICLE BY FATIMA DURRANI PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADELINE MERRICK: MERRICK MULTIMEDIA
TRANSFORMING SPACES INTO SOMETHING MEANINGFUL AND PERSONALIZED
YOUR HOME’S PERSONALITY 18
H OM E U P DAT E | HO M E + D E SIGN
As the weather starts cooling down and families start planning for winter holidays, one important thing to take stock of is your home decor. After all, it’s easy for time to pass by, and suddenly those incredible drapes
budget, and preferences,” reflects Julie. “What’s important is mixing styles when transforming rooms from the mundane to the marvelous, and exuding your own personality.” If you find that your personal style
“FIND THE THEME THAT UNIQUELY REFLECTS YOUR LIFESTYLE, BUDGET, AND PREFERENCES.” designed in the 90s are looking old but not quite vintage. For a fresh change to your home without the need to paint or renovate, consider changing your curtains and cushions. Julie Taylor is the store manager of a local Dallas favorite for interior decorators, fashion designers, and avid DIY fans looking for a chance to bring out their inner fashionista: Cutting Corners. Through her many years of working with fabrics, Julie has seen the different trends come and go, but to ensure a timeless look to decor staples like curtains, she encourages home decorators to focus on their own personal style. “There are many fads out there, but the most important aspect of decorating your home is to find the theme that uniquely reflects your lifestyle,
is still being developed, then fabric magician Krista Parker is ready to tell you about some trends in home decor. “Currently, many buyers are swapping grays and white for color! Incorporating printed fabrics and layering printed fabrics creates an exciting look. Other design trends I am seeing are color drenching, wallpaper, and sophisticated window treatments. Cafe curtains, cornices, and panels with tape trim are in demand,” she informs. Julie continues, “While some people still prefer a pattern with a traditional theme, they’re kicking it up a notch with a little animal print flair within the print. Often, more adventurous decorators will choose a bold color for their furniture and curtains to create a ‘wow’ impact.”
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Creating the space of your dreams starts in your imagination. Julia and Krista encourage customers to use tools such as Pinterest and Canva to bring their images to life, and offer the following tips: • Be open to new ideas and mixing styles. A more current trend is for everything in the room to not match but coordinate and complement each other. For instance, a fun print can jazz up a more traditional frame. • Focus on the colors and textures you love. Don’t be afraid to experiment with color combinations. • If you have a favorite art or heirloom piece, let that be your inspiration and build from there. • Consider your lifestyle and choose a style that reflects that. Choose fabrics that you can maintain and that you won’t tire of quickly. • If you are new to design, it’s often a good idea to be creative with pillows, benches, and home accents, since those items can be switched out easily. For bigger or more expensive projects, such as furniture or drapery, go for timeless fabrics. • Use pictures and samples to create a mood board (either digitally or physically). • After you have completed research and have fruitful combinations/direction, take your progress examples to a professional for their advice. Sometimes, it helps just to walk into a store to download some inspiration. With 5,000 square feet filled with a variety of custom furniture, homeowners and decorators can easily select what they like at Cutting Corners and then personalize it with their choice of fabric. For more information, visit www.fabricresource.com/dallas/ or call 972-233-4503, or email cuttingcorners.dfw@gmail.com.
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H OM E U P DAT E | HO M E + D E SIGN
VOTED BANK IN
ROCKWALL & ROWLETT
2025
WE KNOW YOUR NAME.
AND YOU JUST PUT OURS IN LIGHTS. Kyle Tatum
Thank you, Rockwall, for naming HomeBank Texas Best Bank in 2025! As Friday night lights shine and a new school year begins, we’re proud to stand beside the teachers, students, families, and fans who make this community great. We’ve got the team. We’ve got the heart. And now—we’ve got the title. At HomeBank, it’s not just good banking. It’s a hometown win.
Commercial Relationship Of f icer
Kelli Delozier
Rockwall Market President
HBTX HOM E BA NK
T EX AS
HOM E BA NKTX.COM
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Joe McDermott
Business Development Of f icer
Eric Stacey
Chief Lending Of f icer
ROCKWALL
105 E. Ralph Hall Parkway • 972.772.6888
Additional Locations To Serve You SEAGOVILLE
601 North Hwy. 175 • Seagoville, 75159 • 972.287.2030
DALLAS
3637 N. Buckner Blvd. • Dallas, 75228 • 214.328.2736
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DESIGNER AUDREY LÉ
ARTICLE BY AVERLY BURNS PHOTOGRAPHY BY HEATHER CAPLICK: HEATHER LANAE PHOTOGRAPHY
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FASH ION F OR WA R D | S HOPPIN G
CARRYING A LEGACY FORWARD
Audrey Lé is a second-generation jewelry designer at Willis Fine Jewelry, as well as the creative director and founder of Audrey Lé Jewelry. She blends gratitude for her parents’ legacy with her own bold, creative vision. As she continues her journey at Willis Fine Jewelry in Rockwall, Texas, Audrey also leads her own brand with intention and innovation. Her goal is to preserve the heart of the business while evolving its aesthetic into something more modern and personally refined. With the Audrey Lé in-store boutique set to launch this year, she is expanding her creative footprint while staying deeply rooted in the community that shaped her. CONTINUED >
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Audrey earned her bachelor's degree from Baylor University before studying jewelry design in California at the Gemological Institute of America. Like many recent graduates, her plans were abruptly halted by the onset of the global COVID‑19 pandemic, and she moved back home to live with her parents while the world paused. When it became safe to return to work, Audrey began helping out at her family’s fine jewelry store. What was supposed to be a temporary role quickly evolved into something much more meaningful. Though she never expected to stay as long as she did, she found herself thriving in the environment. She learned the ins and outs of the business, worked her way up, and eventually launched her own line under the family brand: the Audrey Lé collection at Willis Fine Jewelry. A major part of her success has come from her strong connection to the Rockwall community. Audrey enjoys being on the sales floor, engaging with clients, and helping them bring their custom jewelry visions to life. She especially loves when clients come in with lots of ideas and trust her to help refine them into something beautiful and deeply personal. Whether reworking heirloom pieces or designing from scratch, Audrey brings passion and precision to every piece she creates. Early in her career, she dreamed of growing her brand to the scale of major fashion houses like Prada. But over time, she’s found value in staying grounded in a smaller, more intimate setting—where she can build real relationships with clients and see the direct impact of her work. She now embraces the unique beauty of serving a tight-knit audience with care and authenticity. Audrey is truly inspiring. She speaks with honesty, optimism, and deep gratitude for the time, effort, and love her family and friends have poured into her journey. Her story is one of legacy, resilience, and the artistry of finding your own voice while honoring where you came from. Visit https://www.willisfinejewelry.com/ for more information.
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FASH ION F OR WA R D | S HOPPIN G
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1979 Facility Groundbreaking
YEARS
1975 Granted Branch Status
1992 Gymnasium Addition
1989 Outdoor Pool Opened
OF STRENGTHENING
ROCKWALL J.E.R. CHILTON YMCA AT ROCKWALL
2009 Angel Camp Launch
2025 New Facility Rendering
What began as a small community center in 1975 is now the epicenter of helping thousands of families thrive each year. As our city rapidly grows, the J.E.R. Chilton Y must expand its facilities to keep up and support continued access to its programs for all. We need to ensure the YMCA remains a proud cornerstone of Rockwall’s history and help secure its future. Join us in writing our next great chapter and donate to the YMCA today.
LEARN MORE AT YMCADALLAS.ORG/ROCKWALL-50-YEARS
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D E C OR T R E N D S | HO M E + D E SIGN
WHEN Inspiration STRIKES The world of blinds and drapery can be mind-spinning, with endless choices in color, fabrics, and style. Sometimes, we just need a little nudge to get our home design mojo flowing. Budget Blinds of Rockwall owner Debbie Blackmon reminds us that while trends will come and go, the first key to decorating your forever home is to make choices based on what you truly love. “While neutral shades will always be in style, 2025 is all about making a statement,” she reflects. “To make your home unique with fashionable window treatments, focus on choosing colors and patterns that complement your overall style and personality by incorporating unexpected materials and/or layering different types of treatments.” Here are some ways to blend your personal preferences with the hottest trends of 2025: • Use sheer fabrics for soft, natural, diffused light. • Try floor-to-ceiling treatments for a bold, dramatic look. • Incorporate clean lines and simple silhouettes. • Consider SmartDrapes, which can convey that seamless indoor-outdoor living touch. They are soft like drapery and delicately architectural. • Install tech-savvy windows with automation and motorization. CONTINUED >
A Community-Focused Business Provides Style and Service for Every Budget
ARTICLE BY FATIMA DURRANI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADELINE MERRICK: MERRICK MULTIMEDIA
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The road to building Budget Blinds has been filled with blessings. In 2021—amid the COVID pandemic and after surviving cancer—owner Debbie Blackmon decided it was time to move on from corporate America. At that time, her husband, Bill, discovered Budget Blinds of Rockwall, and it turned out to be the perfect opportunity. Their family-first attitude has laid the foundation for their success: “We consider our staff to be like family—hard-working, dedicated individuals who consistently put the customer first.” Just as she treats her staff as whole individuals, she also intuitively understands her clients’ need for their home to feel special. Because “fashion for the home” is unique to everyone, she meets with each of her clients individually, and offers the following categories to help them determine their interior design style: • Are you a minimalist? If so, focus on clean lines, simple shapes, and neutral colors (whites, grays, beige, or even matte black). Try roller shades, Roman shades, or blinds with minimal hardware. • Traditional? Opt for blinds that complement rich wood tones and classic furniture. Wood or faux wood blinds, along with shutters, can add warmth and elegance. Layering with drapery can also enhance this style. • Is the beach vibe your thing? Choose lighter, breezy materials that reflect natural light, like linen curtains or woven wood shades. • For that rustic/farmhouse feel, look for natural textures like woven wood shades, natural materials like bamboo shades, or linen curtains to create a cozy feel. • If you're drawn to eclectic/bold designs, embrace patterns, textures, and vibrant colors. Custom fabric shades can be a statement piece with bold prints, or you can mix and match different styles. Don’t be afraid to add a pop of color! As trends in blinds and drapery constantly turn and twist, there’s comfort in knowing small business owners like Bill and Debbie can help fine-tune your personal style. Contact Debbie at 972-563-3111 or visit www.Budgetblinds. com/rockwall-terrell-tx for more information.
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D E C OR T R E N D S | HO M E + D E SIGN
“Don’t be afraid to experiment with vibrant colors and bold patterns, especially if your space has a neutral base. Patterns and textures are also making a comeback, with geometric prints and floral designs adding visual interest.”
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in
LIVING STYLE
Shoot Credits
THE INTERSECTION OF FASHION AND HOME
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ART DIRECTION Amy Appleton STYLING Tyler Amadeus MODELS Amy Appleton and Elena Weber
T R E N D SE T T E R | STYL E + BE AU T Y
IN
this unexpected love affair, fashion and interiors are more than just a simple pairing—they are rooted in culture, creativity, and the human desire for self-expression. As conscious consumers of the 21st century, participating in a retail landscape that is oversaturated and struggling to adapt to the ever-changing demands of the modern customer, our purchasing power should not only respond to a feeling of want but also prioritize items that reflect who we are and who we aspire to be. This is clearly visible through the representation of fashion and interiors.
ARTICLE BY TYLER AMADEUS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADRIEN KING AND ALEC WALWORTH
Although we tend to consider cost-per-wear primarily when it comes to clothing, this same principle applies to furniture and the function it brings to the home. Aesthetics and functionality both play a role in this pairing, painting a picture for the rest of the world of who the wearer is and how they live in their space. The woman who wears a blazer with sharp shoulders that makes her feel powerful in her everyday life—or the black dress that gives her a necessary boost of confidence—may naturally gravitate toward sleek, modern furniture that feels equally strong and elevates the space where the modern woman thrives. In the same way, someone who prefers an effortless ensemble—like their favorite white T-shirt and comfortable denim jeans—may also look for home pieces that are functional and make their guests
feel at ease. Even a handmade rug, one that sparks conversation about where it was found and adds a focal point to a room, mirrors how we search our closets for a sweater tied to a cherished memory. Just as we carefully choose outfits to express ourselves, it’s equally important to ensure that our living spaces are designed with the same intention. More than ever, modern buyers are making purchasing decisions based on personal morals and values, forming a new wave of consumers who seek products that are both high-quality and environmentally or socially conscious, whether for themselves or their homes. The following imagery affirms that living a timeless lifestyle across all aspects of life is possible through the thoughtful styling of sustainable clothing and vintage furniture. As the modern retail landscape continues to evolve, it’s become increasingly vital to make conscious consumer choices—ones that allow us to express our truest selves through both our wardrobes and the places we call home.
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realty report A S A M P L E O F R E C E N T LY S O L D P R O P E R T I E S I N R O C K W A L L C O U N T Y.
NEIGHBORHOOD
ORIGINAL PRICE
SOLD PRICE
%SOLD/ORIG
CDOM
BDRMS
B AT H S
Hackberry Creek
$1,400,000
$1,300,000
93%
132
4
4
The Ridge
$1,300,000
$1,250,000
96%
87
4
4
Buffalo Creek
$1,190,000
$1,100,000
92%
0
5
5
Breezy Hill
$1,099,990
$1,076,000
98%
75
5
5
Jm Gass Abs 88
$1,099,999
$1,075,000
98%
4
5
4
Winding Creek
$987,605
$987,605
100%
0
4
5
Breezy Hill
$995,000
$975,000
98%
9
4
4
Somerset Park
$1,024,900
$936,485
91%
1
5
5
Quail Hollow
$900,528
$900,528
100%
4
4
5
Quail Hollow
$879,267
$877,816
100%
187
5
6
Cedar Glen Estates
$874,990
$875,000
100%
102
4
5
Somerset Park
$869,900
$870,004
100%
0
4
4
Wellington Manor
$845,000
$845,000
100%
64
4
4
Buffalo Creek
$899,000
$835,000
93%
26
4
4
Quail Hollow
$828,996
$828,996
100%
4
4
3
Somerset Park
$807,900
$809,999
100%
0
4
5
Quail Hollow
$849,900
$801,167
94%
177
5
7
This data is a sampling of sold properties from July 2025. Source: NTREIS - North Texas Real Estate Information Systems (MLS).
EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE. PROVEN RESULTS. EVERY STEP OF THE WAY. Every great real estate journey begins with a conversation. Known for exceptional negotiation skills, deep local expertise, and a commitment to going the extra mile, The Sarah Naylor Team is proud to serve Rockwall County and the surrounding communities. Whether buying or selling, we’re here to guide you, advocate for you, and earn your trust every step of the way.
sarahnaylor.com | (469) 442-7402 | sarahnaylor@sarahnaylor.com | 36
R EA LT Y R E P ORT | REAL ESTAT E
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D O PLA O G E C E H T
Rockwall City Lifestyle is proud to feature The Good Place, a nonprofit thrift store in Royse City run by Royse City Methodist Church. The Good Place serves as a distribution center for gently used consumer goods, transforming donated items into opportunities for community support and local mission work . The mission of The Good Place is grounded in Christian compassion and service. Volunteers—known affectionately as the “Good People”—sort and price donations, stock the sales floor, greet visitors, and manage the cash register during "Sale Saturdays." Through these efforts, everyday household goods are brought into a cycle of generosity: each piece sold or donated helps sustain local programs and bless neighbors in need. Proceeds from the thrift store go toward a wide network of mission partners. The Good Place supports Our Daily Bread families through free vouchers, sponsors a children’s reading program that provides books to young readers, and supplies essentials to the Royse City Animal Shelter and organizations such as Women in Need, God’s Grace Givers, Charity Shoes & Clothes, as well as
Nonprofit of the Month Sponsored by Artisan Masonry & Granite ARTICLE BY ANGI BURNS
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international outreach in Third World countries. In this way, each purchase directly funds outreach beyond the store’s walls. While sustainability isn’t its primary focus, The Good Place also contributes to environmental stewardship. By giving items a second life rather than sending them to landfill, it supports reuse, reduction of waste, and responsible consumption. In a small way, thrift shopping at The Good Place aligns with broader principles of reducing resource use and extending product lifespans. The store typically hosts its “Sale Saturdays” at 200 Plum Street on the first and third Saturdays each month from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., with donations accepted on Thursdays (1–7 p.m.) and Saturdays (9 a.m.–2 p.m.). This schedule creates a regular rhythm for community engagement—whether through shopping, donating, or volunteering. More than simply a thrift outlet, The Good Place is a mission-driven hub, balancing affordability, social impact, and stewardship. It offers shoppers access to quality secondhand goods at budget-friendly prices while channeling every dollar toward caring ministries in the community. If you’re inspired to make a difference, consider becoming one of the “Good People”— donate household goods, volunteer a few hours, or shop during Sale Saturdays. With every item redeemed, The Good Place amplifies its mission: to serve Royse City with kindness, resourcefulness, and faith‑centered generosity. If you know a local nonprofit doing meaningful volunteer work, outreach, or creative service in the Rockwall community, we’d love to hear from you. Please send the organization’s name, a brief description of their mission, and how they support the community to our editorial team.
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SEPTEMBER 2025
events A S E L E C T I O N O F U P C O M I N G LO C A L E V E N T S
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Helping Hands Ryder Cup-Style Golf Tournament Buffalo Creek Golf Club: 624 Country Club Dr., Heath, TX 75032 | 7:00 AM Tee off for a fun-filled morning of golf, prizes, and community impact—all benefiting local families in need. Enjoy breakfast, BBQ lunch, and exciting contests on the course. Ready to par-tee with a purpose? Visit www.rockwallhelpinghands.com/events/annual-golf-tournament/ to learn more or explore sponsorship opportunities. SE PT E M BE R 1 1 T H
Annual Chamber Clay Shoot - Presented by Rockwall Ford Texas Gun Ranch: 15950 State Hwy. 205, Terrell, TX 75160 | 11:00 AM Aim high at this competitive and fun-filled day where local businesses test their skills at the Chamber Classic Clay Shoot. Stick around for the Cigars & Cards After Tournament Party to network and unwind. Learn more at www.business.rockwallchamber.org/events. SE PT E M BE R 1 9 T H
The Bulb Hunter and the Pie Queen Rockwall County Courthouse: 1111 E Yellow Jacket Ln., Rockwall, TX 75087 | 10:00 AM Discover the floral magic of heirloom bulbs with author and horticulturist Chris Wiesinger, known as “The Bulb Hunter.” Enjoy expert gardening tips, inspiring stories, and a catered lunch from Tara Royer Steele of Royer’s Pie Haven. Visit www.txmg.org/rockwall for tickets and details. SE PT E M BE R 2 6T H
Texas Valor Project’s Annual Shoot Texas Gun Ranch: 15950 State Hwy. 205, Terrell, TX 75160 | 11:00 AM Get ready for a full day of fun, fundraising, and fierce patriotism—all in support of life-changing brain treatment for veterans with TBI. From clay shooting and live music to powerful speakers and auctions, there’s something for everyone. Visit www.texasvalorproject.com/events/ for details and ways to get involved. SE PT E M BE R 2 6T H
Freemark Abbey Wine Blending Event Sear Steakhouse & Lounge: 2101 Summer Lee Dr., Ste. 109, Rockwall, TX 75032 | 6:00 p.m. Sear Steakhouse & Lounge is hosting a one-of-a-kind event featuring Freemark Abbey Winery out of Napa Valley, California. Each guest will sample five single varietal wines and then create a custom blend of their choice. Submit your custom blend for a chance to win a gift card to Sear Steakhouse. This is a unique and rare event that has limited availability. Reserve your spot by calling (469) 314-1103. Cheers! O C TOBE R 1 1 T H
Fourth Annual Warhorse Charity Golf Tournament Woodbridge Golf Course: 7400 Country Club Dr., Wylie, TX 75098 Tee up now to register to play or sponsor a team or activity for the Fourth Annual Warhorse Charity Golf Tournament on October 11th. The tournament benefits the Undaunted Warhorse Initiative to empower veterans beyond their service. Fun course games, big prizes, great food, incredible cause. Visit www.warhorse.me for details.
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