Where do you turn for advanced breast care? The best. When it comes to breast care, women trust St. David’s HealthCare. We provide the most advanced technology with convenience, comfort and compassion. Most importantly, we provide peace of mind.
stdavids.com/bca
The Best Is Here.
sally
soft seating series
Design by Jan Armgardt. Quality and value brought to you by Copenhagen. Sally is available from stock in pale blue, top grain leather or soft grey, easy care fabric. Order your custom piece in a vast array of leather or fabric options. 3-seat sofa leather $2144 / fabric $1699. Armchair leather $996 / fabric $716. 2-seat loveseat also available.
phoenix
tucson
tempe
scottsdale
san antonio
austin
el paso
good design is not defined by a high price.
Austin 2236 West Braker Lane 512.451.1233 San Antonio 18603 Blanco Road 210.545.4366
www.CopenhagenLiving.com
contemporary furniture & accessories
Starting annual mammograms at age 40 saves lives. One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer and one in six occurs in women ages 40-49. The fact is mammograms can find cancer before a lump can be felt and early detection saves lives. The average time for a mammogram at ARA is less than 30 minutes. And with our online scheduling and extended hours, it’s more convenient than ever to take care of yourself. Visit ThanksMamm.com to schedule your appointment. You’ll be glad you did.
A Leader in Breast Imaging
FEBRUARY 15-24, 2019 austin.fashionx.co
46
ON THE COVER
A MODERN FAIRY TALE
Photo by Annie Ray.
BY HANNAH J. PHILLIPS
55
FEATURE
SAVE THE DATE BY SHELLEY SEALE
CONTENTS
Photo by Jerry Hayes.
FEBRUARY
55 SAVVY WOMEN
STYLE + HOME
18 C OUNT US IN
42 B EAUTY
20 GIVE BACK
Women in Numbers
Angel Wings of Lake Travis
22 F ROM THE DESK OF 24 P ROFILE
Love Guru Andi Forness
Photographer Abbi Hearne
26 S TART THE CONVO
Bedroom Etiquette
ATX WOMEN TO WATCH 32 A MBER GLASSMAN 33 DR. TRACY CARVER 34 ILANA TANNER 35 ALEXANDRA MOREAU 36 DR. YASHU SINGH 37 PRISCILLA HARDENNE
44 M AKE ROOM
Bedroom Color Therapy
GOURMET 62 R ECIPE REVEAL 64 F OOD NEWS
Tiny Pies’ Love Letter Pie
Épicerie at Laguna Gloria
66 SEE HER WORK
Feathers & Frosting’s
Danaë Smale
WELLNESS 68 E AT THIS, NOT THAT 70 W AITING ROOM 72 H ER ROUTINE
Maca Powder
The Enneagram
Figure skater Gloria Moore
POINT OF VIEW
DISCOVER 39 TEXAS TRIPPIN’
Heaven Scent
Walden Retreats
8 | AUSTIN WOMAN | FEBRUARY 2019
74 ON THE MONEY The Art of Negotiation 76 I AM AUSTIN WOMAN Sandra Foreman
ON THE COVER Photo by Annie Ray, annieraycreative.com Hair and makeup by Gertie Wilson, elevecosmetics.com Styled by Ashley Hargrove, dtkaustin.com Shot on location at Camp Lucy, camplucy.com Rag & Bone Rei velvet notched-lapel blazer, $595; Alice + Olivia Jeannie bow-collar, mixed-print, button-front blouse, $295; Ranjana Khan lapis clip-on statement earrings, $415, available at Neiman Marcus, 3400 Palm Way, 512.719.1200, neimanmarcus.com.
Surgical | Medical | Cosmetic
HEALTHY SKIN IS ALWAYS IN
6 Convenient Locations
Board-Certified Physicians • Medicare/Major Insurance Accepted Contact us today to learn more about our services and specials.
Look good, feel good, do good. A portion of every service, patient visit and product purchase at Tru-Skin Dermatology is donated to The Shade Project and Skin Cancer Foundation to help skin cancer prevention efforts.
tru-skin.com 888.451.0139
NEVER MISS A COLLECTION DAY AGAIN WITH THE
WASTE WIZARD!
The Waste Wizard tool allows residential customers to:
• Receive notification of service interruptions and delays • Sync schedule to digital calendar or mobile device • Learn proper waste sorting with the What Goes Where? feature • Enjoy Eco-Sort, an interactive waste sorting game for the entire family Wizard! S Waste D T e h t e atter.” “Lov e that m k li s il ) ta De use MUD (Blockho ia il c e –C
service es our k he a m S ls like t “TD o o t h it sle w no-has ste Wizard.” ) Wa im HOA (West R e li r a h –C
SIGN UP TODAY!
TexasDisposal.com/Waste-Wizard | 800-375-8375
“Bes t was te sy – Jan stem any ney (C wher e.” ust omer
)
A PUBLICATION OF AW MEDIA INC.
VOLUME 17, ISSUE 6
CYNTHIA GUAJARDO SHAFER Publisher NIKI JONES
CHANTAL RICE
Creative Director
Managing Editor COURTNEY RUNN
Assistant Editor POONAM PATEL
Operations Manager CONTRIBUTORS
Editorial: Kasee Bailey, Emily Benson, Sandra Foreman, Jenny Hoff, Niki Jones, Meagan Leahy, Danielle Ortiz, Hannah J. Phillips, Chantal Rice, Courtney Runn, Gretchen M. Sanders, Shelley Seale, Shelby Woods Art: Emily Benson, Shelly Borga, Kyle Born, Richard Gibson, Ashley Hargrove, Jerry Hayes, Callen Hearne, Kara E. Henderson, Jenny Hoff, Korey Howell, Niki Jones, Megan Kantor, Krista Lacey, Penelope L’amore, Richard Martinez, Annie Ray, Courtney Runn, Gretchen M. Sanders, Michael Schaffer, Danaë Smale, Paige Vaughn, Madison Weakley, Jessica Wetterer, Julie Wilhite, Gertie Wilson, Kate Zimmerman Turpin ADVERTISING/MARKETING AMBER CALLAHAN, LINDSEY GRANBERRY, MONIKA KELLY
Account Executives MADILYN BISCOE
Marketing and Events Manager INTERNS
Emily Benson, Kara E. Henderson, Meagan Leahy, Danielle Ortiz, Shelby Woods
MELINDA GARVEY
KIP GARVEY
Co-founder/Owner
CEO/Owner
ASHLEY GOOLSBY
CFO
Austin Woman is a free monthly publication of AW Media Inc., and is available at more than 1,000 locations throughout Austin and in Lakeway, Cedar Park, Round Rock and Pflugerville. All rights reserved. For submission requirements, visit atxwoman.com/jobs. No part of the magazine may be reprinted or duplicated without permission. Visit us online at atxwoman.com. Email us at info@awmediainc.com. 512.328.2421 | 3921 Steck Ave., Suite A111, Austin, TX 78759
ONTHEDOTWOMAN.COM
COMMUNITY
PARTNERS
FROM THE PUBLISHER
Publication of Austin Woman would not be possible without the support of our monthly advertisers and sponsors, who believe in the impact we are making in the Austin community. The following businesses have stepped up their support of our efforts beyond traditional advertising and we are proud to recognize them as our partners. The team at Austin Woman is grateful for these businesses that have shown their commitment to the advancement of women in Austin and hopes you, as readers, recognize their efforts and support these businesses and all our regular advertisers.
CYNTHIA GUAJARDO SHAFER
Publisher DIAMOND-LEVEL PARTNERS
PLATINUM-LEVEL PARTNERS
I
still get teary remembering my wedding day. While there were countless special moments, looking my soon-to-be husband in the eyes at the altar is a memory I will never forget. While we don’t have any big Valentine’s Day plans, I’m just as giddy to celebrate with him now as I was when I donned that white dress. This month, we decided to bring back a theme we have not visited as a publication in years: weddings. As Central Texas continues to cement itself as a wedding destination, we want to highlight the women responsible for its boom. This isn’t your traditional Southern wedding magazine; as always, we want every Austin woman to see herself in this magazine. From our persevering cover woman, Kim Hanks, who co-owns the popular venue Camp Lucy, to a nomadic adventure wedding photographer to a group of women who are repurposing wedding dresses for the most noble of causes, we curated stories about a unique group of ladies who are approaching weddings from all angles. We also feature three diverse and stunning wedding venues scattered throughout Central Texas, each suited for distinctive and discerning brides. While we feel these stories are inspiring regardless of whether you’re planning a wedding, we didn’t want to exclude anyone, so we also filled this issue with plenty of self-love content, including self-care tips based on personality types and advice for standing up for yourself financially. Our hope is this issue will leave you feeling empowered to lift up other women but also to love yourself. As for me, I’ll be soaking away my stress in a bubble bath this month. Whether you’re planning a fabulous Galentine’s Day party, looking forward to a romantic evening or finally taking some time to care for yourself, we hope your February is filled with love.
LAW OFFICE OF JANET MCCULLAR
CYNTHIA GUAJARDO SHAFER
Join the conversation @AustinWoman #TheWeddingIssue
12 | AUSTIN WOMAN | FEBRUARY 2019
Photo by Courtney Runn.
Publisher
E X C L U S I V E LY AT B E N O L D ’ S
Austin’s one and only for more than 85 years.
2900 West Anderson Ln. | Wo m a n & L o c a l l y O w n e d | M-F. 10 am - 6 pm, Sat. 10 am - 5 pm | 512.452.6491 | Benolds.com
CONTRIBUTORS
hear a great story
This month, we asked our contributors: What is your favorite Valentine’s Day memory?
ANNIE RAY
COVER STORY PHOTOGRAPHER, “A MODERN FAIRY TALE,” PAGE 46 Since 2005, Annie Ray has focused on bringing out the “real stuff” in everything she shoots. Her relationship with every subject will make 1,000 words say so much more. “My favorite memory is when my husband surprised me with a trip to Half Price Books and while we were shopping, the buy-back counter called my name over the intercom. When I arrived to the buy-back counter, there was a mini cake in the shape of a book that my husband had designed.”
GERTIE WILSON
COVER STORY HAIR AND MAKEUP, “A MODERN FAIRY TALE,” PAGE 46 Gertie Wilson is the founder and creative director of the nontoxic, award-winning beauty line Elevé Cosmetics. She has more than a decade of experience as a makeup artist, and when she’s not working on location, she’s often in one of the two Elevé retail locations. She and her husband live in Austin with their spirited 1-year-old daughter and two sweet pups. “In lieu of the standard red roses, my boyfriend (now husband) gave me a beautiful potted orchid on our first Valentine’s Day. We had recently started dating and I had no recollection of telling him that I loved orchids. It turns out he had read my makeup blog to discover my favorite flower!”
SHELLEY SEALE
WRITER, “SAVE THE DATE,” PAGE 55 Shelley Seale is a freelance journalist and author in Austin who has written for National Geographic, USA Today, The Guardian, The Week and Texas Monthly, among other publications. She loves dogs, yoga, indie movies, wine and books, though not necessarily in that order. Shelley has performed a catch on the flying trapeze, boarded down a live volcano and was once robbed by a monkey in India. But she doesn’t know how to whistle.
Upcoming events: February 9 Singin’ in the Rain— film with orchestra Austin symphony’s Butler pops at Long center’s Dell Hall, 8:00 p.m. peter Bay, conductor February 22 & 23 brahms’ Requiem masterworks series at Long center’s Dell Hall, 8:00 p.m. With conspirare symphonic choir craig Hella Johnson, guest conductor peter Bay, conductor
c o n c e rt s p o n s o rs
“My favorite Valentine’s Day memory is avoidance of Valentine’s Day! My partner of 10 years and I had our first date on Feb. 8, and we are also both big antiforced-romance holidays, so we enjoy celebrating our own special romantic day Feb. 8 each year instead of Valentine’s Day.” Singin’ in the Rain
all artists, programs, and dates subject to change.
HANNAH J. PHILLIPS
COVER WRITER, “A MODERN FAIRY TALE,” PAGE 46
Download the app:
Connect:
Download the app:
Connect:
tickets/info:
m e Di A s p on s o r s
sing in’ in tHe rAin: Watkins insur a nce Gro up BrA Hms Requiem: bbVa co mpass
BrAHms’ Requiem
Download the app:
Connect:
Download the app:
Connect:
Download the app:
Connect:
Download the app:
Connect:
(512) 476-6064 or austinsymphony.org
Hannah J. Phillips is a native Austinite who didn’t truly grasp her Texas state pride until living in the United Kingdom for nearly seven years. She returned in 2012 and loves traveling throughout the Lone Star State with her pit bull, Lucy. Hannah covers food, culture, travel and all things Texas for local, national and international publications. “My favorite Valentine’s Day memory was a weekend with a friend at the W Hotel after a bad breakup. We ate dinner at Launderette, worked out in the fitness club, plunged in the pool, spent time in the sauna and ordered room service. That weekend of self-care marked the beginning of a healing path toward remembering all the reasons I’m worth it!”
Sponsored Content
THIRTEEN TECH FEATURES YOU DEFINITELY NEED IN YOUR NEXT VEHICLE BY CHELSEA BANCROFT
Technology is constantly evolving and improving in the automotive industry. Do you remember when power windows were the coolest new feature in vehicles? Boy, have we come a long way since then! With my job, I get to drive a lot of different vehicles and experience some of the newest tech features. Here are some of my favorites that you’re definitely going to want in your next vehicle. 360-degree Camera
Lane-keep Assist
When backup cameras first came out, it was life-changing. And now they are mandatory in all new vehicles. But automakers have outdone themselves. Many vehicles now have 360-degree cameras. That’s right, the car’s display can show a virtual top-down view of your entire surroundings. It’s amazing and makes parking and maneuvering through tough spaces much safer for everyone!
This feature will perform minor steering corrections to recenter your vehicle if it senses you are unintentionally drifting out of the lane.
Adaptive Headlights
Radar Cruise Control
Auto-adjusting High Beams
This has to be one of my favorite features to come out in vehicles recently. Adaptive radar cruise control lets you maintain a set speed and minimum following distance from the car in front of you. If the vehicle in front of you slows down, even comes to a complete stop, your vehicle can automatically slow or stop as needed. Trust me: It’s a godsend in heavy traffic.
Automatic Lift Gate This feature is incredibly helpful to have when you’re carrying a lot of things. Just the push of a button will raise the car’s trunk lift gate and lower it back down again.
Heads-up Display This futuristic feature projects important info, like speed, on the bottom of the car’s windshield. (I tell people it’s kind of like a hologram.) It makes monitoring your speed much easier because you don’t have to take your eyes off the road.
Blind-spot Monitoring Blind-spot monitoring systems alert you when a vehicle is in your blind spot and help prevent collisions.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto These systems sync with your smartphone and allow you to be more connected and access a variety of apps right through your car’s infotainment center.
Push to Start If you’re like me and carry a big purse, this feature is a necessity. Gone are the days of digging through your purse to find your car keys!
Photo by Grace Bailey.
Automatic Emergency Breaking When driving at lower speeds like in the city or a parking lot, a forward camera can detect vehicles/pedestrians and warn you to brake when needed. It will even apply the brakes automatically if you do not react in time. I knew my Mazda had this feature, but only recently did I experience it for the first time. This feature was the sole reason I did not rear-end the person who stopped short in front of me. (If my boss is reading this, sorry!)
Do you ever find yourself driving at night on a winding road and wishing you could see better around a turn? Introducing adaptive headlights: As you turn, the headlights will pivot in the direction of your turn, improving visibility and allowing you to see any potential hazards ahead. With auto-adjusting high beams, you’ll never be that jerk on the road blinding other drivers because you forgot to dim your bright lights. This system senses when another vehicle is approaching and automatically turns off your car’s high beams until the other vehicle passes.
Wi-Fi Hotspots What I would’ve done to have one of these in my mom’s car when I was a kid. Netflix on a long road trip? Yes, please!
Massaging Seats Are heated and cooled seats not enough for you? Apparently, you can now buy vehicles that come with massaging seats! Ahhh! These features make certain aspects of driving more convenient, and while that’s great, more importantly, they are improving safety on the road. They’re definitely worth considering when purchasing your next vehicle.
Chelsea Bancroft is the strategic-partnerships and social-media manager at Roger Beasley Mazda and a blogger at onechelofanadventure.com.
CONNECT WITH US! IN CASE YOU MISSED IT… ➥ Spectrum Sitters. Founded in Austin by the mom of a special-needs child,
Spectrum Sitters provides on-call sitters and nannies trained in special education for families needing in-home care for kids with disabilities. Only about a year and a half old, the business is booming, thanks to demand for its highly qualified sitter pros.
➥ New Republic Studios. As the first woman to head Austin-based film-
production company New Republic Studios, Mindy Raymond discusses her journey from actress to company president and shares her thoughts about the pay gap and gender inequality in the film industry.
➥ Orangetheory Fitness. Ellen Latham, the co-founder of this wildly popular
fitness brand, visited Austin recently and took the time to share with Austin Woman how she grew her home-based business into a global trend and how other women can find their purpose in life.
➥ Self-love Staff Picks. From a good soak in the tub to napping to binge-
lounging to yoga and even a few sips of wine, the Austin Woman staff is in love with these indulgent self-care rituals.
WIN THIS!
DELUXE DISCOVERY SET AND GIFT CARD FROM ROUX SAINT JAMES Show yourself some self-love with Roux Saint James’ Deluxe Discovery Set (valued at $75), featuring eight perfumes and accompanying intension cards to help you refocus and smell amazing at the same time. A local perfumery, Roux Saint James offers all-natural, handcrafted perfumes at its East Austin studio and hosts workshops so guests can create their own scents. (Learn more about Roux Saint James in our Beauty story on Page 42.) The winner of this giveaway will also receive a $25 gift card to keep exploring the perfumery’s mission to promote well-being through aromatherapy. To enter to win, follow us on Instagram @austinwoman and stay on the lookout for the giveaway announcement in mid-February. A winner will be chosen and notified by the end of the month.
FOLLOW US
@austinwoman
16 | AUSTIN WOMAN | FEBRUARY 2019
LIKE US
DON’T
MISS CASA of Travis County’s CASAblanca Gala Feb. 2, 6:15 p.m. JW Marriott Austin, 110 E. Second St. casablancagala.com Austin Fashion Week Presented by Fashion X Austin Feb. 15 through 24 Various locations austin.fashionx.co Austin Woman and La Belle Salon & Spa Bridal Fashion Show Feb. 19, 6 to 8 p.m. La Belle Salon & Spa, 10000 Research Blvd., suite 141 atxparties.com
facebook.com/austinwoman
FOLLOW US
@ austinwoman
Mindy Raymond photo by Emily Benson. Ellen Latham photo courtesy of Orangetheory Fitness. Spectrum Sitters photo courtesy of Spectrum Sitters. Win This photo by Krista Lacey.
Check us out at atxwoman.com.
Simone experienced years of abuse at the hands of her husband. To escape, she became homeless and lost custody of her kids cus in the process – until she was reunited with them in SAFE housing.
Austin’s authority on “all things beautiful.” M A S T E R H A I R C U T | C O L O R | J A PA N E S E S T R A I T E N I N G | H I G H E N D L A S H E S | S PA FA C I A L T R E AT M E N T S
You can help SAFE provide safety, stability, and healing for anyone who has experienced violence and abuse.
Learn more at safeaustin.org.
A luxurious full-service salon and spa nestled in the Arboretum boasts 4000-square-foot of indulgence to capture the essence of your very next unforgettable experience... exclusively for you.
1 0 0 0 0 R E S E A R C H B LV D .
PERMANENT MAKEUP | MICROBLADING
|
L A B E L L E AT X . C O M
|
512.382.0978
Studio Bella is a full service spa & boutique Permanent Eyeliner, Eyebrow, Lips and much more Areola and Scar Camouflage Free areola pigmentation for cancer survivors DaVinci Teeth Whitening
DA VINCI TEETH WHITENING SPECIAL
BUY ONE SESSION AT REGULAR PRICE FOR $100, GET SECOND SESSION FREE! ADD THIRD SESSION FOR $75 MENTION THIS AD
SCHEDULE A SERVICE TODAY!
www.StudioBellaSpa.com
6507 Jester Blvd Suite 108 Austin TX 78750
Natural Spray Tan Nails by Lisa Graham - 512.694.2501 lisag4nails@gmail.com Stefani Stryker, Lash Artist + Esthetician skincarebystefani@gmail.com 737.333.1317 Sheila Paul, Massage Therapist 512.662.8062 - elitemyotherapymassage.com Hair by Lisa O’Brien - 512.350.1138 obrienfordhairatx.com
512.502.0002
S
AVVY WOMEN
COUNT US IN
WOMEN IN NUMBERS
During this season of adoration, women are emphasizing more self-love. BY EMILY BENSON, ILLUSTRATIONS BY JESSICA WETTERER
12 Bras Heidi Zak, co-founder of revolutionary bra company ThirdLove, launched the body-positive brand in 2013 after becoming frustrated that of the 12 bras she owned, none of them fit properly. Since then, ThirdLove has created half sizes for women needing in-between cup sizes, incorporated models of all shapes and sizes into its marketing campaigns and publicly deflected misogynistic jabs from Victoria’s Secret’s chief marketing officer.
98 Percent
73,000 Followers
The longtime Dove Campaign for Real Beauty has helped shed light on the hidden crisis of low self-esteem afflicting women worldwide. After surveying 3,000 women in 10 countries about their interests and priorities, Dove discovered 98 percent of women want to change at least one thing about the way they look, with most women citing body weight as their No. 1 gripe. As they say at Dove, beauty should be a source of confidence, not anxiety. And no matter her size or shape, every woman is beautiful!
An anonymous yet increasingly popular Instagram illustrator, Pink Bits, has garnered more than 73,000 followers because of the artist’s body-positive art. The creator uses artistic expression to normalize loose skin, cellulite and women’s body hair in these daring illustrations. Pink Bits also focuses on destigmatizing menstruation and combating period shamers with charming, realistic artwork. Considering as many as 88 percent of women say they negatively compare themselves to images in the media, the bodypositivity movement and artists like Pink Bits are making great strides in helping women accept themselves for who they are in the age of social media.
$18.5 Billion According to one love-day-focused business, Americans spend an astonishing $18.5 billion on Valentine’s Day gifts every year, with the average U.S. consumer dishing out more than $130 on loved ones. Women in particular are getting more out of Valentine’s Day in recent years, perhaps because they’re not waiting for that special someone to present them with a gift. In fact, 14 percent of American women say they send themselves flowers on Valentine’s Day.
18 | AUSTIN WOMAN | FEBRUARY 2019
72 Percent Millennial women are prioritizing self-care and mental health more than ever, according to a survey by Shine, a selfcare app. The survey claims 72 percent of millennial women focused their New Year’s resolutions for 2018 on their mental and emotional well-being, incorporating healthier habits into their daily routines. Here’s hoping that selfcare trend continues into 2019.
Your reasons for wanting to stay healthy are just as important to us as they are to you. UT Health Austin puts you, your family, your goals and your needs at the forefront of your care, bringing a new level of excellence to healthcare in Texas. Oering services in women’s health, musculoskeletal, primary care, neurology and more.
S
AVVY WOMEN
GIVE BACK
ON ANGELS’ WINGS
One local volunteer group is crafting infant gowns for grieving families.
Imagine a symbol of the happiest day of your life helping someone else on the worst day of hers. This heartwarming prospect guides the work of local group Angel Wings of Lake Travis, a community of volunteers who turn donated wedding dresses into infant burial clothing for families that have lost a child.
Marilyn Nielson and Tara Shaw
Co-founders Marilyn Nielson and Sandy Crider were on their way to a bunco game night when they first toyed with the idea of forming a volunteer group similar to one they’d recently seen on the news. With the drive to help others and a few crafty talents of their own, the two decided to form a volunteer group aimed at helping families during their most devastating life experiences. In the past four years, Nielson and Crider, along with co-founder Barbara Carpenter, who were later joined by a host of helpers, have transformed hundreds of donated wedding dresses into an estimated 4,000 angel gowns. Through their efforts, they strive to ease the suffering of grieving families who’ve lost an infant, all while joining together as a community of women to give back. “We enjoy all getting together,” Nielson says. “We are happy to be able to help. We’ve gotten to be real close.” The group gathers locally every other week to work their fashion magic. Donated gowns are logged, tagged, photographed on mannequins and deconstructed. The Angel Wings seamstresses then select specific gowns to take home, refashioning those prized possessions into tiny, gorgeous angel gowns, burial garments for newborns, infants and babies. About once a year, Nielson, the designated deliverer, transports 50 to 100 20 | AUSTIN WOMAN | FEBRUARY 2019
“We do it so that the parents during the hardest day of their life don’t have to worry about how to dress their little angel.”
angel gowns—wraps and clothing in four infant sizes—to local hospitals, as well as to other hospitals throughout the country in an effort to ease some suffering for grieving families that have lost a baby. In the crafty hands of Angel Wings volunteers, a typical wedding gown can become anywhere from eight to 15 angel gowns, and more can be created from dresses that have long trains. But Nielson notes the group could create even more angel gowns with additional seamstress volunteers and says Angel Wings is always happy to add more hospitals to its growing list of recipient institutions. Angel Wings volunteer Tara Shaw runs the team’s website and coordinates the photographing of donated wedding gowns and the resulting angel gowns, allowing brides the chance to see the creations beautifully fashioned from their individual gowns. While it’s initially an emotional challenge to cut into an elegant wedding gown, Nielson says she knows the end products serve as sources of comfort for families undergoing unimaginable hardship. “We do it so that the parents during the hardest day of their life don’t have to worry about how to dress their little angel,” Nielson says. “I enjoy delivering [to the hospitals], and we always say, ‘We hope you don’t have to use them, but we know you will.’ This will give some comfort to the families in their very hard times. It’s just something we do with the love of our hearts just to help people.” Angel Wings of Lake Travis has four drop-off locations for dresses. Check the group’s website, angelwingslaketravis. wixsite.com/angelwingslaketravis, for more information. Group organizers welcome interested volunteers to donate or meet with them every other week at 10 a.m. at Rough Hollow’s Highland Village in Lakeway, Texas, for gown deconstructing.
Photos courtesy of Angel Wings of Lake Travis.
BY KASEE BAILEY
discover your design
piece by piece
and
of Austin & Hill Country DRAPES. SHADES. SHUTTERS. BLINDS. MOTORIZATION
interior design 512.904.9137
|
home staging
ZELLACOMPANY.COM
|
event styling
INFO@ZELLACOMPANY.COM
Swap the weight of the world for the weight of a blanket. Relax under the deep-touch pressure of a weighted blanket and feel the hug for increased serotonin and decreased cortisol levels. mosaicweightedblankets.com
FREE In-Home Consultation | 512.593.5505
BudgetBlinds.com
S
AVVY WOMEN
FROM THE DESK OF
ANDI FORNESS
Love guru Andi Forness shares her tips for navigating the world of online dating. BY SHELBY WOODS, PHOTO BY KARA E. HENDERSON
Andi Forness is the cofounder of a recreational roller-derby league, a Jungian spiritual psychology life coach and an online-dating expert. After her breakup three years ago, she kept finding herself in the same place with men. As a bilingual dyslexia specialist, Forness has always had a fascination with repatterning the mind, and she knew in order to get out of her dating rut, she would have to create new experiences for herself. She decided to construct an organized step-bystep strategy to navigate the online-dating world and stop wasting her time on dates that never led anywhere. Successful outcomes to online dating don’t have to take years. Forness offers up some helpful tips for how to make online dating more efficient, effective and fun.
FOCUS.
“Newbies will go onto dating apps and be bored. Whatever you put your attention on will grow, so create a schedule. For example, get online at like 8 a.m. and swipe and respond for 30 minutes. Go into your set 30 minutes with the intention of finding love, planning a date or making conversation.” POLISH YOUR PROFILE.
“A lot of people make their profiles about selling themselves. Start speaking to who you are wanting. It’ll create a different energy than making a profile all about yourself. Include what you would want to do with a potential partner, such as hiking, listening to live music or trying a recipe you find online. This will speed up the process by allowing the other person to visualize themself in your life. Your profile is the most important part of online dating. Typically, when I look at women’s profiles, they’re so generic. If there’s something cool that you want to do, like maybe a drag-queen holiday boat party, put it on there! You should stand out. There’s something unique about you and people want to know what that is.”
GIVE YOURSELF TIME.
“You have to make dating intentional. You want to meet someone, fall in love and get married, but the first step before any of that is you have to be available. Look at your schedule and make free time. Say no to parties with friends. Say no to work obligations. Say no to being busy. You almost have to physically create space. A lot of people go online to date and then they can’t make plans for another week, and a week online is like a year. It becomes a missed connection. Before you even start online dating, start making space on your calendar.” 22 | AUSTIN WOMAN | FEBRUARY 2019
STRIKE UP A CONVERSATION.
“Some people spend weeks texting somebody and then wonder why they’re bored. It’s because you haven’t made a connection. The platform you use for online dating is just a lead; you have to add some human components to it. Get on the phone. Let them hear your voice. Let them hear your laugh. Once you have the flow of a conversation, you can decide whether or not you want to take it to a date. That way, you aren’t wasting time going on dates with people that you won’t be able to have a conversation with because you’ve set that up in advance.” STAY PRESENT.
“We’ve all been hurt before. We don’t want to take fears from a past relationship into a new one. It’s not fair. Take things one step at a time, and don’t go into online dating anticipating problems. Let relationships organically unfold with the intention of finding love. Things will probably unfold differently than you expected them to.”
OFFICIAL EVENT PRODUCTION COMPANY OF AWMEDIA INC.
A legacy of exceptional care for your family. The specialists at Austin Oral Surgery have been providing exception care and attention to families in the Austin area for over 45 years. Our 13 oral surgeons are highly trained, board-certified doctors who finished dental school and an additional four to six years of residency and education. They are hospital-trained in
dental implants
anesthesia, internal medicine, general surgery, and emergency surgery. This comprehensive training and years of proficiency are critical to a safe
sleep apnea wisdom teeth removal
and trouble-free experience when your family
tmj
jaw realignment
facial trauma
needs an oral surgeon. Before you make a decision concerning your family’s oral surgery needs, visit with one of our surgeons in any of 12 convenient locations in Central Texas. Choose a legacy of exceptional care.
A legacy of exceptional care Cedar Park Central Austin
Dripping Springs Georgetown
Harker Heights La Grange
Lakeway Marble Falls
N. Central Austin San Marcos
South Austin Temple
S
AVVY WOMEN
PROFILE
PORTRAIT OF A ROAD TRIPPER
Austinite Abbi Hearne shares about her nomadic life as an adventure wedding photographer. BY COURTNEY RUNN
Delicate sketches of Half Dome and Castle Valley nestled in flowers mark Abbi Hearne’s arms, so when she looks down, she’ll always be home.
Photo by Callen Hearne.
After living and working as adventure wedding photographers on the road since 2016 with their dog, Hearne and her husband, Callen, traded their apartment in Texas for national parks.
“Now, as we arrive in the valley of Yosemite or into town at Moab, [Utah,] we kind of feel like a breath of fresh air, like we’re coming home,” Hearne says. “[Yosemite] is one of those places that there’s no way a photograph could do it justice.” Her pictures get pretty close. The couple’s Instagram is a gallery of majestic vistas, each picture more stunning than the last. The more
24 | AUSTIN WOMAN | FEBRUARY 2019
likes and followers they accumulate, the more sessions get booked. In 2018, they shot 40 elopements and intimate weddings and 20 adventure sessions with couples. Because of the high demand, the couple now has full control of their travel schedule, making clients come to them instead of the other way around. This year, they’ll be in Zion National Park, Utah, Yosemite and Alaska. Hearne is the head photographer, communicating with couples ahead of time, planning the elopements and directing the shoots; her husband gets the secondary shots, capturing all the nonessential, fun pictures Hearne says often end up being couples’ favorites; their dog, Charlie, is moral support. While it might seem like they’ve made it, “If I had a moment of Hearne is quick to remind fans their story is not thinking what I’m doing one of overnight success. Their rig is outfitted with running water, a stove, an oven and a refrigerator, here is hurting the place luxuries they did not experience when they started more than it’s helping it, out in a van. They didn’t crisscross the country and climb cliffs and shower in community centers for then it’s 100 percent not likes on Instagram; a deep passion for nature and worth it to me.” preserving national parks fuels them. “I love Moab way more than I love my job,” Hearne says. “If I had a moment of thinking what I’m doing here is hurting the place more than it’s helping it, then it’s 100 percent not worth it to me.” As the adventure-photography community has grown, Hearne fears the consequences of photographers determined to get the perfect Instagram photo, regardless of the cost. It weighs on her, one question always lingering in the back of her mind: Am I destroying these places by making them trendy?
Top photo by Megan Kantor. Bottom photos courtesy of the Hearnes.
Visit atxwoman.com to read more about the Hearnes and their photography adventures.
ATXWOMAN.COM | 25
S
AVVY WOMEN
START THE CONVO
BEHIND CLOSED DOORS
Author Jan Goss-Gibson is helping women rekindle intimacy in the bedroom. BY CHANTAL RICE
By providing her readers with some thoughtful insight on the matter, Goss-Gibson hopes women realize they have permission to champion their sexuality, begin to love their bodies and erase the fear often associated with sexual intimacy. “I want to start these conversations, whether about body image, our own sexuality or our fears,” she says. “In the bedroom is where so many fears come out. But what if we had a tool to help “As I was teaching how to show up well in us at least start discussing these things? This the boardroom, I realized what does it profit if book is a tool to do that.” your home life is in shambles? What if we took Goss-Gibson’s recommendations range from these same principles and applied them at the simple (creating the bedroom as a sacred home?” Goss-Gibson says. “It’s like a transferspace that appeals to all the senses, opening ring of business skills from the boardroom to lines of communication between partners) to the bedroom.” the more provocative (being willing to initiate Goss-Gibson’s new book, Bedroom Etiquette: sex, relishing in being naked and unashamed, How to Show Up Well Behind Closed Doors, being open to trying something new). released in late 2018, is a practical guide for Goss-Gibson’s No. 1 tip for women: Address women who want a healthier sex life, more your fears about intimacy. self-awareness and more respect. And it’s “It doesn’t take much effort to really spice ringing true with women worldwide, already things up in your personal intimate relationbecoming a best-seller in two categories on ship. Start by making a tiny shift,” she says. “If amazon.com. At its core, Bedroom Etiquette Bedroom Etiquette can just start the conversaaims to help women bring sacredness back tion, it can help remove the fear.” into the bedroom using the principles of While Goss-Gibson has already received professional business etiquette: connection, countless emails from women who have been innovation, nurturing and respect. And the inspired by her book, she hopes to build on author, who went through two divorces and “[Women] have not been this achievement and plans to create a sevenis now blissfully wed, doesn’t shy away from module, expert-driven program based on the allowed to be sexual beings. the difficult discussions required to meet that principles outlined in Bedroom Etiquette. goal. In fact, she addresses them head-on. We’ve been afraid to be sexual.” “It’s futile to build your professional life and “I like sex. There, I said it,” Goss-Gibson not your personal life,” she says. “At the end of writes unapologetically, noting this assertion the day, if you show up well, whether it’s at work or at home with the one is one more women should wholeheartedly embrace. you love, you sleep in peace.” “It’s freedom. It’s how we were wired, how we were made,” she says. “[Women] have not been allowed to be sexual beings. We’ve been afraid to be sexual.”
Bedroom Etiquette is available in paperback and for Kindle on GossGibson’s website, showupwell.com, and on amazon.com.
JAN GOSS-GIBSON’S BEDROOM ETIQUETTE ABCS A: Appearance
B: Behavior
C: Confidence
“Your appearance is how you show up. It is the first thing others notice about you. Appearance is exterior. It is the physical way you present yourself to the world. How are you presenting yourself to your spouse? Some things are difficult to change and take time, but there are things you can do to instantly make your appearance more attractive.” They include:
“Knowing where to start with behavior begins with a first impression. You never get a second chance and you only get five seconds. Obviously, your initial first impression has been made with your spouse, but what about on a daily basis? What is the first thing you say to them in the morning? What about when they come in the door? Take a moment to greet your love and tell them good morning before you give out your to-do list. Ask about their day before you delve into your own needs when they walk in the door. When you honor each other, everyone’s needs get met.”
“Confidence is attractive. Confidence has great drawing power. Did you know that when you are confident, it makes the other person who is in your presence feel better? … However, if you are living your life feeling badly about yourself, then you are pushing others away from you, including your spouse. … You can build your confidence back up, even after it has been crushed. … You are worth it! Confidence is sexy.”
• adjusting your posture • smiling • staying well-groomed and clean
26 | AUSTIN WOMAN | FEBRUARY 2019
Headshot by Korey Howell. Book cover photo by Richard Gibson.
For decades, consultant Jan Goss-Gibson has shared her business-etiquette expertise with corporate leaders, teaching them how to show up well in the boardroom so they can live life to the fullest in their professional lives. Now the expert motivator and strategist is taking on a new mission— in the bedroom.
Enhancing Life. Excelling in Care.
Valentines Day 200 Discount
$
Dr. Neyman is highly trained in in-office gynecology procedures and minimally invasive surgeries. She offers a full range of gynecology services including: ●
Annual gynecology exams
●
da Vinci® robotic-assisted surgery
●
MonaLisa Touch® treatment for painful intercourse
●
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy
●
Endometriosis diagnosis and treatment
●
ACESSATM uterine fibroid therapy
●
Pelvic prolapse treatment
Laser Vaginal Treatment Package
Sherry L. Neyman, MD, FACOG
Good thru 2/28/2019
Specialist in gynecology/women’s health
www.sneymanmd.com
(512) 425-3875
APPLICATIONS
OPEN NOW atxevent.com
The Woman’s Way Business Awards is Austin’s only business awards for woman-owned and -led businesses. Award recipients span numerous industries and are chosen by a selection committee of successful local female business and community leaders.
ARE YOU A BUSINESS OWNER OR LEADER? APPLY TODAY! Austin Woman magazine has been in the business of celebrating women in our community for the past 16 years. The Woman’s Way Business Awards is our opportunity to recognize and honor the women behind innovative businesses that aid in our city’s development and progress. We are celebrating companies that are succeeding because of the Austin women at the helm, independent of ownership.
AWARD CATEGORIES: HEALTH & WELLNESS PROFESSIONAL SERVICES SOCIAL IMPACT MAKER PRODUCT INNOVATION RISING STAR BUSINESS OF THE YEAR (LESS THAN $3 MILLION) BUSINESS OF THE YEAR (MORE THAN $3 MILLION) I AM AUSTIN WOMAN
SAVE THE DATE: MAY 9, 2019 JW MARRIOTT AUSTIN PRESENTING:
PLATINUM:
AUTOMOTIVE:
GOLD:
Sponsorships available. Inquire to sales@awmediainc.com or 512.328.2421.
LAW OFFICE OF JANET MCCULLAR, P.C. Complex Divorce and Custody 512.342.9933 | jmccullarlaw.com
ATX
WOMEN to WATCH Our pages are full of stories of Austin’s most engaging, empowering and successful women, and this section is specially designed to provide you access to even more incredible role models and success stories. Be part of this amazing tribe and share your story with thousands of women. Contact us at sales@awmediainc.com or call 512.328.2421 for more information. PHOTOS BY ROMINA OLSON
SPECIAL PROMOTION | ATXWOMAN.COM ATXWOMAN.COM | | 31 31
ATX
WOMAN to WATCH
AMBER GLASSMAN
C O - F O U N D E R O F B R YA N A N T H O N Y S
I
n 2015, Amber Glassman and her husband, Ed, created Bryan Anthonys, a lifestyle brand focused on blending fashion with a purpose. Bryan Anthonys was named after Glassman’s brother, whose young life was tragically taken by bacterial meningitis. The brand was created in honor of him, with the hopes Glassman and her husband could encourage others to make life meaningful. Since starting the company, they have grown their business exponentially. With Glassman’s background and love of writing, they have been able to establish a unique niche in the fashion industry. A powerful-message card accompanies all Bryan Anthonys designs. This has allowed the couple to connect with their customers on a profound level, generating meaningful relationships that exceed industry standards. Glassman and her team continue to help inspire and empower women throughout the world. By consciously offering purposeful designs, they have helped women create, share and live their own stories. They also continue to make an impact in their community through their philanthropic partnerships locally and nationally. bryananthonys.com
32 | SPECIAL PROMOTION
|
ATXWOMAN.COM
32 | AUSTIN WOMAN | FEBRUARY 2019
ATX
WOMAN to WATCH
D R. T R ACY CARVER
PSYCHOLOGIST AND CLINICAL DIRECTOR AT AUSTIN PROFESSIONAL COUNSELING
P
sychologist Dr. Tracy Carver, a University of Texas graduate, specializes in counseling for self-esteem, anxiety, depression and addiction. After successfully running her own business for three years, she recently accepted the position of clinical director at Austin Professional Counseling. She is honored to join a team of compassionate therapists offering the very latest science-based approaches to psychotherapeutic care. She believes wholeheartedly in APC’s mission of destigmatizing mental-health care, providing education to the community and delivering the highest standard of psychotherapeutic services. With a flexible and collaborative style, Carver helps her clients find solutions to their problems and achieve lasting, positive change. While highly knowledgeable, she has a down-to-earth demeanor and a relaxed, engaged presence. She believes therapy is one of the best ways to shift the language we use to describe ourselves, overcome the mental roadblocks keeping us stuck in self-defeating patterns and cultivate a more peaceful mind. austinprofessionalcounseling.com
SPECIAL PROMOTION | ATXWOMAN.COM ATXWOMAN.COM | | 33 33
ATX
WOMAN to WATCH
I L A N A TA N N E R L AW Y ER
O
riginally from Houston, Ilana Tanner attended the University of Texas, earning three undergraduate degrees and her law degree. She opened her solo law practice in 2012, focusing on all family-law issues, including divorce, custody and adoption. Tanner also represents children and parents in Child Protective Services cases in both Travis and Williamson counties. Representing clients with compassion and understanding as they navigate through the legal hurdles involved in these difficult and emotional matters is what sets Tanner apart from other attorneys. In recognition of her skills, Tanner was ranked on the American Institute of Family Law Attorneys’ list of 2018 Top 10 Best Attorneys for Exceptional and Outstanding Client Services. Additionally, the National Academy of Family Law Attorneys named her a Top 10 Under 40 Attorney. ilanalaw.com
34 |  SPECIAL PROMOTION
|
ATXWOMAN.COM
ATX
WOMAN to WATCH
ALEXANDRA MOREAU
OWNER AND WEDDING PL ANNER AT XO MORE AU WEDDINGS & E VENTS
A
lexandra Moreau is the owner and lead wedding planner at XO Moreau Weddings & Events, a weddingplanning company that focuses on creating beautifully unique events and having fun while doing so. Moreau, a Pittsburgh native, completed her bachelor’s degree in hospitality management and her master’s degree in employment and labor relations at Indiana University of Pennsylvania prior to relocating to Austin with her husband, Stefan. Moreau’s outgoing, playful personality and sense of humor dug the roots of her wedding-planning company, which has gained rapid success since opening. She credits that success to being her 100 percent authentic self, offering exceptional customer service to her clients and vendors, and putting her whole heart into every wedding she plans. Moreau has quickly built a reputation of being a hardworking and ambitious woman who is incredibly fun to work with. Moreau, undoubtedly, will continue to be a staple in Austin’s wedding-planning industry. xomoreauweddings.com
SPECIAL PROMOTION | ATXWOMAN.COM ATXWOMAN.COM | | 35 35
ATX
WOMAN to WATCH
D R. YA S H U S I N G H
ORTHODONTIST AND OWNER OF SING ORTHODONTICS
D
r. Yashu Singh, the orthodontist and owner of Sing Orthodontics, has treated thousands of children and adults in the greater Austin area. She has grown her practice into one of the largest orthodontic companies in Central Texas and is recognized as a leading Invisalign provider. Singh spends much of her free time mentoring young professionals in the dental field on how they can better grow their careers. “Many students don’t receive business training in dental school,” Singh says. “I want young orthodontic professionals to know how to navigate their profession so that they don’t have to choose between their career and family life.” Singh has orthodontic practices in Round Rock and Lakeway, Texas. Singh enjoys seeking out challenges and creative opportunities and implementing new and proven technologies to advance the science and art of orthodontics to achieve spectacular smiles. singortho.com
36 | SPECIAL PROMOTION
|
ATXWOMAN.COM
36 | AUSTIN WOMAN | FEBRUARY 2019
ATX
WOMAN to WATCH
PRISCILLA HARDENNE FOUNDER OF ST YLE BY PRISCILL A
P
riscilla Hardenne is the founder of Style by Priscilla. Her motto is: out with the old and in with the new. She has always had a passion for style and organizing. After an extensive education in which she received various degrees and certificates, she was able to focus with passion and become an image consultant, color-analysis specialist and makeup artist. She has helped people of all ages and body types discover their own individualized style with special flair. She doesn’t see her work as a real job. She wakes up excited and enthusiastic about her day, thinking about helping women feel confident so once they step out the door, they can conquer the day in style. A mother of two loving boys with a supportive husband of 12 years, she’s a style lover, beach lover and passionate horse-riding girl who is proud and blessed to call Austin her home. stylebypriscilla.com
SPECIAL PROMOTION | ATXWOMAN.COM |
37
Sponsored Content
New Year, New Color According to pantone.com, living coral is the color of the new year, and we are all for it! While adding this pop of color might seem a little daunting, we are here to help ease this transition in your home. At Zella, we love a neutral design but definitely do not shy away from color. Whether it is a cobalt-blue couch in an all-white living room, some emerald-green coasters strategically placed on a rustic coffee table or a simple coral throw pillow tossed on a beige chair, simple adjustments can really transform a room. Throws: Varying your hues with different throw pillows and blankets on a simple couch is one of the easiest ways to add color to your space. Plus, they are an easy swap when the seasons begin to change, so you will always be on trend.
Rugs: Placing a rug on a wood floor is a simple way to add color because there are so many styles you can choose from. At The Zella Company, we love layering rugs. If you have ever been to our office or used our services, you know our obsession with pairing different colored, textured or shaped rugs together. This really captures the eye when entering a room and creates unique dimension in your space. Wall Art: Adding a colorful piece of art on a blank wall automatically brightens a room while adding life. This striking contrast of a bold piece against the wall draws the eye to your desired spot in the space. Floral DÊcor: Who doesn’t love flowers? Placing a bunch of coral peonies on your desk makes working from home a more pleasant experience while also brightening up your space by adding a little natural color to it.
The Zella Company houses a warehouse full of pieces that will bring your home or event to life. Shoot us an email or give us a call and talk to one of our design experts, who would be happy to make this transition into the new year an easy and colorful one. 512.215.2166 | zellacompany.com
DISCOVER HEAVEN ON EARTH
Connect with nature at glamping destination Walden Retreats, just a stone’s throw from Austin. BY CHANTAL RICE
Photo courtesy of Will Graham Photography.
Henry David Thoreau was right: We can never have enough of nature. It is imperative that we are refreshed in the surrounds of wilderness, that we must endeavor to live a life we have only imagined, that we live deep and suck out all the marrow of life, that we leave our unnecessary bonds behind and witness our own limits transgressed, embracing the parts of the natural world we rarely wander.
ATXWOMAN.COM |  39
D
ISCOVER
TEXAS TRIPPIN’
Photo courtesy of C2 Photos courtesy ofPhotography. Kate Zimmerman Pictures.
Thoreau came to this revolutionary conclusion in the 1840s after spending more than two years alone in the woods on the shore of Walden Pond in Concord, Mass. It was a life-defining experience for the naturalist, philosopher, writer and rebel, one that spawned his classic opus, Walden, which forever influenced the canons of American literature and inspired generations upon generations of wanderers to endeavor to find their true selves, to seek that which is not in the facets of mundane everyday life, but in the higher order of beings. Such an experience can be had in any number of earthly locales: the Rocky Mountains of Montana, the wilds of the Indian Ocean, the rugged splendor of the Andes Mountains, the savannas of East Africa and, yes, one hour west of Austin in the heart of the Texas Hill Country. There lies an outdoor experience unlike any other, one that fosters an intimate connection with nature while offering an unparalleled camping adventure. This is Walden Retreats, a breathtaking 96-acre property along the cliffs of the Pedernales River near Johnson City, Texas, that beckons visitors to slow down and reflect on life alongside Mother Nature herself. But don’t be fooled by Walden Retreats’ designation as a camping site. This sylvan destination is far from the average muddy-ground encampment where adventurers are guaranteed sleep on the hard earth alongside endless dust clouds with no access to running water or electricity. Indeed, Walden Retreats epitomizes the modern term “glamping.” Outfitted with two 500-square-foot safari-style canvas tents, Walden Retreats offers “an authentic outdoor experience without sacrificing the comforts of a luxury hotel.” This marvel of a business is the brainchild of Founder Blake Smith, who opened the property in spring 2018 after spawning the idea while attending Acton School of Business. Inspired by his stays in East African eco-lodges and high-end safari camps, Walden Retreats is Smith’s variety of a stylish, boutique hotel that emphasizes scrupulous attention to detail.
40 | AUSTIN WOMAN | FEBRUARY 2019
Photos courtesy of Will Graham Photography.
“We live in such a nonstop world these days that finding time to slow down of planning a wedding. Oftentimes, we have been a destinaand really reflect on where we are going in life seems harder and harder to tion for a pre-honeymoon before couples travel to a more do,” Smith says. “Camping is one of the best places to do this, and I just didn’t exotic location for the full honeymoon.” see why getting out into nature meant that you had to spend hours packing up This flood of honeymoon business is what, in part, led gear only to sleep on the ground and not take a shower for three days.” Smith to decide to expand Walden Retreats. The renovation With that in mind, Smith—along with his wife, Sarah Contrucci Smith, will include an additional 14 tent suites, an event pavilion, a of home-goods company Marra, who thoughtfully designed the plush tent pool and a general store. Expected to be completed by fall, interiors with curated handcrafted elements and the upgrade will “walk the fine line gorgeous décor touches—outfitted the Walden between having enough capacity “I went to the woods because Retreats tents with only the finest in luxury while still providing guests with amenities, including undeniably snuggly kingseclusion and privacy on the propI wished to live deliberately, to size beds, running water, private bathrooms with erty,” Smith says, adding 16 tents front only the essential facts flush toilets and claw-foot bathtubs, wood stoves, “is a good size for our property and refrigerators, gas grills, coffee makers, cozy wool will provide enough room for wedof life, and see if I could not blankets and even air conditioning and heat, ding parties to stay on-site.” learn what it had to teach, among other superb creature comforts. Of course, Whether a stay at Walden Reall the desired camping essentials are present too, treats involves honeymoon bliss, and not, when I came to die, from private fire pits to acres of wanderable rivwedding-party escapades or simply discover that I had not lived.” erside grounds and an incredibly memorable and unplugging from everyday life in a vast Hill Country view. Walden Retreats is luxury phenomenal natural environment, – Henry David Thoreau living among unspoiled nature. it is sure to be unforgettable. Perhaps that’s why the property has attracted “Ideally, I’d like [guests] to leave guests from as far away as the Cayman Islands and has quickly become a Walden feeling rested and with a renewed perspective honeymoon destination for lovers seeking to get away from the cacophony of on whatever they have going on in life,” Smith says. “And wedding-day chaos. hopefully, during their time, they got to spend some real “Because of all the wedding venues in Dripping Springs and the surrounddistraction-free quality time with a loved one. Relationships ing area, we have had a number of couples come stay at Walden the night are what life is really all about, so if we can play a role in after their wedding,” Smith says. “It’s a great way to relax after the busyness strengthening them in some way, that is our ultimate goal.”
ATXWOMAN.COM | 41
S
TYLE
BEAUTY
HEAVEN SCENT
Roux Saint James’ bespoke custom fragrances are on the nose. STORY AND PHOTOS BY NIKI JONES
Fragrance-ophiles, rejoice! Austin now has an all-natural perfumery where you can create your very own bespoke signature perfume. Roux Saint James’ proprietor and perfumer, Krista Lacey, has a passion for the art of creating complex, beautiful scents, along with a vast knowledge of the subject, which she enthusiastically shares with students in her workshops. But this is no sit-and-listen class; participants immediately get to work creating their own custom perfumes in Roux Saint James’ sunlit, modern studio that is part laboratory, part retail space. Students begin the process by identifying the base, middle and top notes they like (and dislike) about a scent, and then start combining, layering, eliminating and adding until they come up with their version of an ideal scent combination. Then raw botanical ingredients are added slowly, drop by drop, and tested with each iteration. While time-consuming, the process is terrifically fun, and having Lacey right there guiding the way makes it feel less like a lesson and more like working on a cool science project with a friend. Roux Saint James offers a variety of workshops focused on botanical compounds and perfumes, as well as a full line of fragrance products, including a discovery set, so you can mix and explore combinations on your own. You never know; you may have a nose for it!
42 | AUSTIN WOMAN | FEBRUARY 2019
“Perfume is not just about making someone sexually attractive or wearing a scent just to smell good, like an afterthought before walking out the door. It’s about elevating it to the level of fine art and recognizing the artistry of a good perfume. It’s also about using your nose and exploring the incredible world of scent.” – Krista Lacey
ATXWOMAN.COM | 43
H
OME
MAKE ROOM
THE COLOR OF LOVE
Local designer Shay Spaniola shares how adding color can spice things up in the bedroom. BY DANIELLE ORTIZ
“”
Color is a language of the soul. Placing various colors in your bedroom is important to cultivate certain feelings and emotions. A lot of people don’t realize how much their environment impacts them. Ultimately, it’s a great way to navigate changing our thoughts, much like meditation. – Shay Spaniola
Headshot by Michael Schaffer. All other photos by Kyle Born.
The bedroom is a sanctuary. It’s where we sleep, rest and binge-watch our favorite shows. But it’s also an intimate space. Whether you are looking to liven up your relationship this Valentine’s Day or are longing for an overall change to your bedroom décor, it’s helpful to think colorfully. Take the advice of designer Shay Spaniola, founder of Austin-based home-décor shop Bunglo. Spaniola specializes in décor that marries feng shui with color therapy. Color, she says, can impact so many things in our lives, from our moods to how much we eat. Because the bedroom and our romantic relationships are so intrinsically intertwined, she suggests decorating this personal space to be as love-inducing as possible. Here, Spaniola shares her tips for adding color in a way that will spruce up the bedroom and enable you to feel all the love.
44 | AUSTIN WOMAN | FEBRUARY 2019
GET THE LOOK LET YOUR HEART RULE.
“If you want a bedroom to be relaxing, then using warmer colors [is] going to make you feel that way. Purple and red are the more romantic colors. Purple is great for a bedroom because it’s calming while being related to romance. Orange is another color that is great for romance, especially when thinking about chakra colors. The orange color of the chakra represents your sexual energy, so using the color will actually make you feel more romantic. Red and orange are both very grounding sexual colors. … Blues and purples are the other side of intimacy, which is more the cerebral intimacy focused on connection.” CRUSH ON COLOR.
“Don’t be afraid of color! You can always change color, especially if you start small by using pillows and sheets. This is a great introduction to colors to see how you feel. Sometimes you’re not exactly sure how you’re going to respond. I don’t paint my room one color because usually, I’ll feel overwhelmed with too much color. That’s why I started making pillows because if I get sick of them next season, I can just change them. This is such a low-investment way to experiment.” FALL IN LOVE WITH NATURAL ELEMENTS.
“Bring in the element of fire, like candles, to add a nice touch. The soft, ambient lighting options set a mood for romance. To incorporate water, a fountain and flowers in a vase are very sensual.” SHOW YOUR BED SOME TENDER LOVING CARE.
“You can do this by adding blankets and pillows. It’s also important to take the time in the morning to make your bed. It’s something that’s sacred, so treat it that way.” CREATE YOUR PERSONAL LOVE NEST.
“There are so many color combos that we have told ourselves don’t go together, but don’t be afraid to use color based off of what matches or what doesn’t. Choose what you think is right because your space should be centered around what you feel. If you like certain colors, it doesn’t matter what matches because it will eventually go together. That’s how people come up with their own personal color palettes.”
ATXWOMAN.COM | 45
46 | AUSTIN WOMAN | FEBRUARY FEBRUARY 2019 2019
A
Modern FairyTale
On somewhat of a whim and with a fierce bootstrapping mentality, hospitality and specialevents queen Kim Hanks built her vast kingdom, coming to reign in the Wedding Capital of Texas. BY HANNAH J. PHILLIPS | PHOTOS BY ANNIE RAY HAIR AND MAKEUP BY GERTIE WILSON | STYLED BY ASHLEY HARGROVE
ATXWOMAN.COM |  47
This is a story about romance, relationships and fairy-tale weddings. After all, driving down the winding backcountry roads that lead to the luxury resort at Camp Lucy, it’s near impossible to not fall in love—with the Lone Star State, with Dripping Springs, Texas, with the venue itself. Leaving Highway 290 for Creek Road, city stresses slip away, carried downstream under one-lane bridges that guard the quiet realm of the Texas Hill Country. But like every fairy tale, there’s more to the story at Camp Lucy, which is quickly apparent to anyone who spends time with Kim Hanks, who oversees the property as CEO of Whim Hospitality. Not only did Hanks turn a fledgling party-rentals business into one of the most innovative eventservices companies in the Austin area, she also grew Camp Lucy into one of the premier venues that earned Dripping Springs the moniker Wedding Capital of Texas. This is a modern fairy tale and its princess is an entrepreneur, less damsel in distress, more badass heroine who writes her own narrative. And while every entrepreneur faces obstacles, Hanks’ unique journey demanded the defeat of personal demons on her pathway to success.
ONCE UPON A TIME Hanks’ story starts in the Oak Cliff neighborhood of Dallas, not a town exactly known for fairy-tale beginnings. The daughter of a traveling evangelist, Hanks grew up mostly with her mother and both sets of grandparents, first in Arkansas and then in Bakersfield, Calif. Ambitious from the beginning, she got her first job in Bakersfield at 18, working as a lab assistant for biotech giant Amgen. “I just consistently showed up and asked them for a job,” Hanks says. “I would microwave their pipettes and put wiffy water [water for injection] in bottles. It was so exciting to put on a lab coat. I thought I had made it. They made cancerfighting drugs and there was a lot of satisfaction from the feeling that I was helping to save lives.” Hanks quickly progressed from lab assistant to management in the manufacturing department. She met, married and started a family with another Amgen employee. They moved to Puerto Rico, then back to California. On paper, everything was perfect. But something wasn’t quite right. She had taken time off to focus on their two sons, but when it came time to resume her position at Amgen, she found herself missing the close-knit community of Puerto Rican women. “So, I did what any normal person would do,” Hanks says with a smile. “I binge-watched a bunch of Jennifer Lopez movies. She’s Puerto Rican, and I was missing that Puerto Rican sisterhood. And who hasn’t been impacted by J-Lo?!” Hanks recalls coming across Lopez’s movie The Wedding Planner one night and hearing an almost audible voice telling her she would become a wedding planner. “Something just jumped inside of me,” she says. “It was confusing because I had probably been to two weddings in my life at the time. But I just said—over my wine and my popcorn—yes!” And so, a dream was born. With no fairy godmother to wave a magic wand, Hanks took matters into her own hands.
48 | AUSTIN WOMAN | FEBRUARY 2019
A DREAM COME TRUE “The first thing I did was educate myself,” Hanks says. “I bought bridal magazines, immersing myself in Martha Stewart and just learning what brides want.” At the same time, her husband also longed for a career change, and the two landed in Texas to be closer to family. They chose Dripping Springs, not yet the Wedding Capital of Texas. Looking to launch her wedding-planning services, Hanks developed a twofold strategy. First, she started knocking on doors to find experience. She quickly learned the biggest need was for party-rental services, so she started her first company, Dripping Springs Party Rental, while side hustling as a wedding planner at Red Corral Ranch in Wimberley, Texas. Meanwhile, she also joined the Dripping Springs Visitors Bureau’s board of directors to build rapport with fellow business owners and local venues. Pam Owens, current president and CEO of the Dripping Springs Visitors Bureau, helped the city earn its official designation as Wedding Capital of Texas from the state Legislature in 2015. Hanks’ hard work with her partyrentals company and her work with other venues “was one of the reasons we were able to make that happen,” says Owens, who ran a print business at the time and partnered with Hanks to create brochures for events. “I find her very inspirational because she is a goal setter and so disciplined,” Owens says. “I saw how hard she worked then, so it was a natural progression to see how her company has grown. She’s just continued to build upon that first business.”
“ONCE I ALLOWED MYSELF THE GRACE TO SAY I’M NOT GREAT AT EVERYTHING, I HIRED PEOPLE THAT WERE SMARTER THAN ME AND WE GREW OVERNIGHT.” BREAKING THE SPELL During this same time, Hanks started to identify unhealthy patterns in her marriage. Her husband’s controlling tendencies early in their relationship developed into verbal abuse. “I chose my [first] husband because I came out of an abusive childhood,” Hanks shares. “You usually model what you grew up with. My husband would tell me how stupid I was. He would make up songs about that and teach them to the kids.” As the verbal abuse escalated, Hanks knew she had to get out—for her sake and for her kids. Gathering her courage, Hanks left her husband and struck out on her own. She thought it would mean the end of her company but managed to survive by banding together with two other single mothers pursuing similar businesses: a florist and a caterer. “Working with them,” Hanks says, “I learned that if I could sell one service and build that trust, people would come to me for multiple services. That was really powerful for me, and I liked the idea of more employees and creating a healthy family that I didn’t have.”
ATXWOMAN.COM |  49
IN THIS FAIRY TALE, THE DAMSEL IN DISTRESS SAVED HERSELF.
50 | AUSTIN WOMAN | FEBRUARY 2019
Dripping Springs Party Rental expanded from event rentals and management to floral services and catering. As the business grew, so did Hanks’ confidence. She filed for divorce, finally spelling the end to the negativity she’d been listening to for years. “You almost feel like you’re in this shroud,” she says through tears. “You’re covered and you can’t breathe. When that person’s gone, the shroud just lifts. You can breathe! You can see!” There is no timeline for healing from verbal and psychological abuse. Fractured bones may heal in three to six months and stitched wounds mend in two weeks or less, but a broken spirit? In her book The Verbally Abusive Relationship, author Patricia Evans describes the damage of such a relationship as a kind of battering. While lacking the bruises of physical abuse, the effects can last much longer. Among many consequences (Evans lists as many as 19.), verbal abuse results in a loss of self-confidence, growing self-doubt and an internalized critical voice. The abuser’s external lies become indistinguishable from the victim’s internal monologue. Hanks compares her own experience to a tape she couldn’t stop playing in her mind. That tape only stopped as recently as 2017, she says, but she started the brave work of unspooling it by walking away from her abuser seven years ago and by fastidiously growing her business since then. When the negative tape starts looping, Hanks fights back with affirmation. “At first, I would write down small accomplishments,” she says. “I would just say, ‘I don’t believe that about myself,’ or, ‘I know I’m not stupid because I’m getting all this new business. I’m promoting myself. I’m producing really great events. I’m paying my bills…and I’m running a household. I can do this.’ I fought it with truth.” In this fairy tale, the damsel in distress saved herself.
BUILDING A KINGDOM As she healed, Hanks’ business grew. Her work brought her into contact with Whit Hanks, a local architectural-antiques dealer and owner of Camp Lucy. She recalls her first visit to the venue and finding Whit Hanks on the bell tower of the chapel. “I had heard a lot about this developer, how he was so smart and influential,” she says. “I also learned that he’s really curious, so when I first met him, he’s up on this scaffold trying to figure out how they’re putting all the bricks on the mortar and how it’s all going to work.”
The chapel was the first structure erected on the Camp Lucy site, moved in its entirety from Vietnam and reimagined for its Texas setting with design inspirations from Whit Hanks’ travels. Limestone covers the arches of the bell tower, placed in a Machu Picchu-style layout and inlaid with tiles from Mexico. Whit Hanks gleefully rings the 500-pound bell to prove the superior sound of bronze. As the round, mellow chime resounds through the Hill Country, Kim Hanks laughs. “As you can see,” she says, smiling, “Whit’s passion is really the spaces, whereas I’m always thinking about the programming.” In order to expand the venue itself, Whit Hanks hired Kim Hanks to grow wedding and event services at Camp Lucy, which she managed while continuing to develop her party-rentals company. Frustrated by the constant budgeting demands of the event-services industry, she considered closing her business to move back to California. Whit Hanks offered financial assistance to keep the business running, and the two joined forces, combining the names “Whit” and “Kim” to create Whim Hospitality. As both the venue and the company grew, so did a mutual admiration for their shared curiosity and drive. It was strictly business at first, Kim Hanks says. Eventually, not unlike Kim Hanks’ old film friend, The Wedding Planner, their appreciation “grew to respect. Respect grew to like. Then like grew to love.” “We’re attracted to each other because we are so different,” Whit Hanks says. “So, we’re trying to understand the other person’s world and yet, we have some core values that we share.” Some of these core values became the company’s core values, now displayed in a kitchen at Camp Lucy and on printed cards for new employees. They include passion, respect, dependability, honesty, creativity and resourcefulness. As she was overseeing a constantly expanding empire, Kim Hanks’ own passion soon blossomed beyond the wedding industry. She discovered her true joy is gathering people together and creating moments. This broader vision, “bringing people together,” became the tagline for Whim Hospitality and enabled her to hire experts and specialists instead of orchestrating every detail. “That’s when the company really exploded,” she says. “Once I allowed myself the grace to say I’m not great at everything, I hired people that were smarter than me and we grew overnight.”
ATXWOMAN.COM | 51
HAPPILY EVER AFTER Between catering, event rentals, lodging, floral services and showrooms in both Dripping Springs and Austin, Whim Hospitality now employs upward of 260 people in peak seasons. Meanwhile, Camp Lucy comprises three separate wedding venues, 27 guest rooms (soon to be 90), a vineyard and a restaurant. Helmed by Executive Chef Brandon Martin (formerly of Odd Duck and Barley Swine), Tillie’s opened in October 2018 and already earned a spot on Texas Monthly’s rundown of the state’s top wine lists. For Kim Hanks, all this is just the beginning; her happily ever after is just the start. Her goal is to grow the hospitality side of Whim, expanding further into Austin. She also hopes to add internal hiring structures that would allow for recruiting and supporting employees from underprivileged and underserved communities, including victims of trauma and abuse. Giving back is just part of who she is, her husband claims, noting her desire to help others stems from her faith, which helped her overcome her own troubles in life. “It’s amazing to see her blossom so well,” Whit Hanks says. “In my experience, you normally can’t shake a rough early life experience. She’s really done an awesome job of shaking it, and I think she’s done that through her strident belief in God. It’s very core to her views. She has a personal relationship that makes her not alone. If you feel like God is your best friend, you are never alone.” Meanwhile, she plans to continue expanding Camp Lucy as a template for future resort properties throughout Texas, then across the globe. And finally, her goal is to tell her story. “My biggest struggle was feeling like I couldn’t ask for help, like I had to do everything by myself,” she says. “Now I understand that’s not true. When you’re sharing both your vulnerability and success, it’s beautiful. It doesn’t make you less powerful; it makes you loved.”
Page 46: Nanette Lepore sequin daffodil flower top, $328; J Brand Alana high-rise cropped leather skinny pants, $998; Christian Louboutin Cosmo 554 patent/vinyl high-heel pumps, $795, available at Neiman Marcus, 3400 Palm Way, 512.719.1200, neimanmarcus.com. Pink Mariette fringe drop earrings, $19, available at baublebar.com. Page 49: Alice + Olivia Kirby ruffle short-sleeve dress, $375; Ranjana Khan handmade multicolored crystal clipon earrings, $475, available at Neiman Marcus, 3400 Palm Way, 512.719.1200, neimanmarcus.com. Page 50, left: Dolce & Gabbana leopard- and rose-print top, $945; Rag & Bone Poppy velvet high-rise cropped pants, $425; Devon Leigh geometric drop earrings, $385, available at Neiman Marcus, 3400 Palm Way, 512.719.1200, neimanmarcus.com. Shoes, model’s own.
Page 50, right: Theory tie-neck blouse in peppercorn, $295; Theory basic crepe pull-on cropped pants, $295; Christian Louboutin Cosmo 554 patent pumps, $795, available at Neiman Marcus, 3400 Palm Way, 512.719.1200, neimanmarcus.com. Black-gem Rianne drop earrings, $42, available at baublebar.com.
52 | AUSTIN WOMAN | FEBRUARY 2019
Coming into Bloom
“If you plant a seed in unhealthy soil, it never blooms,” Kim Hanks says. “When I moved into a business partnership with Whit, I was finally planted in good soil and I could bloom.” She shares how to distinguish good from bad soil in relationships and in business.
THE SEEDS OF SUCCESS IN RELATIONSHIPS Your past doesn’t have to shape your future—or your wedding. “Because I was so ashamed of my abusive past, it shaped who I married and how I married. I didn’t think I deserved the big wedding and the white dress. … But we all have the right to design our own lives.” Abuse doesn’t discriminate, and it escalates. “You think abuse happens mostly in lower socio-economic circles, but it’s corporate wives too. My first husband had controlling tendencies but not daily explosions in the beginning. You just start to adjust, and it comes in grades.” Good relationships aren’t based on fear. “I knew I was in a healthy relationship when Whit would let me make my own mistakes in business and learn from my failures. He never used my mistakes against me as a power play. It was the complete opposite of fear; it was opportunity.” Find someone who wants to grow too. “It’s important to choose someone that wants to grow, someone that’s curious. Curiosity is the key to success, both in business and relationships.”
THE SEEDS OF SUCCESS IN BUSINESS Build relationships with a community bank. “You need to have money to make money, but if you don’t fit the mold at a larger bank, it can be harder to get a loan. A community bank will get to know you and advocate for you.” Hire people who are smarter than you. “I think too often we feel like we have to have all the answers, but the best decision you can make is to hire people that are smarter than you.” Learn how to self-promote. “This was hard for me at first, partly because of my past and because we are taught to be humble. But I know I need to be current and relevant to get great employees. When I apply for awards, it’s to attract really talented people.” Have compassion for yourself. “I’ve learned to check in with myself when I’m feeling triggered. It gives me the chance to hear myself and speak the truth. You can have a lot of people that love and encourage you, but sometimes you need to hear from the person who knows you best: yourself! Don’t you think we’re all a hot mess inside? Nobody has it all together, so we have to encourage ourselves, as well as each other.”
GYNECOLOGY Well woman care specializing in management of complex issues including endometriosis and fibroids da Vinci速 minimally invasive surgery In-office procedures | Ablation VAGINAL REVITALIZATION Votiva, MonaLisa Touch速, O-Shot速 WELLNESS AND WHOLE BODY HEALTH BioTE速 bioidentical hormone pellet therapy Ideal Protein weight loss plan SculpSure targeted fat reduction Contoura body shaping and skin tightening NEW EmbraceRF FaceTite facial contouring
MODERN GYNECOLOGY HEALTH & WELLNESS lisamjukesmd.com
We listen. We help.
YOU RECOVER. If you’re struggling with addiction or a mental health condition, you don’t have to face these challenges alone. Recovery is possible when you have the right tools and support. At Rock Springs, we offer integrated inpatient and outpatient treatment programs designed to work with individuals through each step of their recovery.
Call 512.819.9400 24/7 to schedule a confidential assessment.
700 Southeast Inner Loop Georgetown, TX 78626 rockspringshealth.com
Dear Self: I’m proud of who you were, who you are now, and who you will become. NAHAL DELPASSAND, PSY.D.
LICENSED PSYCHOLOGIST 1600 W. 38th St., Suite 428, Austin, TX 78731 512.454.3685 | drnahaldelpassand.com
individual (adults and adolescents 13-17) | couples | family therapy
SAVE
DATE Before walking down the aisle, saying ‘I do’ to that special someone and tying the knot, brides-to-be are often overwhelmed with securing the perfect wedding locale. From rustic luxury to lavish grandeur to enchanted European charm, these three magnificent Central Texas wedding venues will steal every bride’s heart. BY SHELLEY SEALE For many people, a wedding is one of the most important days of their lives. It is the entrance into a marriage and a celebration of love with family and friends. No wonder so many couples search painstakingly for the perfect venue to make the big day magical and beyond special. Fortunately, Central Texas isn’t lacking for spectacular and imaginative wedding locales. Here, we feature three area properties that are uniquely enchanting, from a Venetian palace to a European castle and even a modern rustic-chic country barn. ATXWOMAN.COM | 55
It’s difficult to imagine what a fire station, saddle-making shop, speakeasy and Venetianstyle grand palazzo might have in common. Yet these elements are all woven together in the history and reinvention of Palazzo Lavaca in downtown Austin, a truly magical, one-of-akind venue and event space. The two-story building constructed of limestone brick dates back to 1890 and was originally one of Austin’s first firehouses. Throughout the Prohibition era and the Great Depression, rumors spread of a speakeasy and brothel run on the premises, adding to the mystery and charm of the site. By 1940, the spot became home to Capitol Saddlery, a saddle foundry and boot-making shop owned by Rodeo Hall of Famer T.C. “Buck” Steiner, a legendary leatherworks artisan with a colorful, larger-than-life personality. Most of the saddles for Sears, Roebuck and Company were made here during this period, along with those for other clients, including ranchers, musicians, rodeo performers and politicians. Legendary bootmaker Charlie Dunn crafted his custom boots at Capitol Saddlery for 25 years, boots that donned the feet of illustrious customers such as Ernest Tubb, Gene Autry and Carole King. “It seems everyone in Austin history has walked through those doors and has a story to tell about Buck,” says Giselle Koy, owner of Palazzo Lavaca. “Apparently, he was quite a character and not afraid to express his opinions to anyone, from the governor of Texas to an alleged boot client, Al Capone.” After six decades, Capitol Saddlery moved locations, and the storied building stood empty until Koy purchased it in 2008. The acquisition was driven by her desire to save a piece of local history and with the idea of making her home there. The Austin native started from scratch in the space that had been left mostly untouched. In her forays, she made some fascinating discoveries, including stumbling upon a trap door that had been used to drop hay to the horses when the building housed a fire station, a 1905 Otis elevator and a 130-year-old painted frieze. Koy kept the original oak and longleafpine floors, tin ceilings and the oversized boot sign that marked the spot as the home of Capitol Saddlery. Around those unique, iconic elements, Koy began to build something so lavish and exquisite that it’s simply breathtaking. Koy had traveled extensively throughout Europe, particularly in Italy, where Venice had stolen her heart. Taking her inspiration from the grand drawing rooms and lavish 56 | AUSTIN WOMAN | FEBRUARY 2019
Photo by Jerry Hayes.
PALAZZO LAVACA
palaces there, she painstakingly began to reimagine the landmark building in Austin. An incredible collection of chandeliers was brought in, including an 18th-century Venetian lantern and a massive midcentury antique from the Golden Nugget casino in Las Vegas. This type of eclectic mishmash defines Palazzo Lavaca. Eighteenth-century antiques sit side by side with original boot lathe racks from the Capitol Saddlery days, phone numbers still etched on them. Yards upon yards of smoky amethyst velvet curtains drape rooms that hold pale-pink ceramic lights, Parisian marble bars, Fortuny wallpaper and old painted frescoes. The result is something that is distinctive yet eerily reminiscent of the strange beauty of Venice: Old World luxury and opulence partly in ruins alongside touches of modern glam.
“After the renovations were complete, I began to receive requests from visitors and friends for possible photo shoots; video shoots; portrait shoots; music videos; boudoir shoots; small, intimate weddings, etc.,” Koy says. “After so many requests, I began to rent the space, which turned into the creation of the wedding venue/corporate-event business.” With a thoughtful approach, Koy transformed the old saddlery into five distinct spaces: the Grande Ballroom, the great room, the Violet Flame Bar, a kitchen and an open-air courtyard. There are also two stunning parlor rooms that can be used as separate changing suites for the bride and groom.
Palazzo Lavaca hosts some 30 to 40 events annually, including weddings, corporate gatherings and private parties, for as many as 165 guests. Koy says one of the things that makes the space so special to guests is its wondrous ability to remind them of a different era, one of glamour and refinement. “We receive gushing, elaborate reviews about the experience of the bridal party,” she says. “Our venue manager, Oliver Belche, receives fan mail for the beauty, charm, elegance, Texas history and extraordinary experience of those who marry at Palazzo Lavaca.” Palazzo Lavaca, 1614 Lavaca St., 512.593.2413, palazzolavaca.com ATXWOMAN.COM | 57
58 | AUSTIN WOMAN | FEBRUARY 2019
Photo courtesy of Svetlana Photography.
VILLA ANTONIA “The villa isn’t master planned as an event venue, which is part of the charm,” says Elizabeth Vaughn, marketing and sales director for Villa Antonia. “Couples are attracted to the villa because of its Old World charm. [There are] narrow pathways to rose gardens, waterfalls pop up in unexpected places, stone gargoyles [are] hidden in the garden, balconies, towers and terraces—all to explore. It reminds a lot of guests of being at an Old World villa or estate where every generation would add on to the home and grounds using local materials.” Weddings are hosted in the 5,000 square feet of indoor space, which features a fabulous foyer with a grand staircase, grotto, dining room, chapel and dance hall, or in the exquisitely landscaped gardens and outdoor terraces. Villa Antonia hosts between 110 and 120 weddings each year, with many of those clients cherishing memories of their first time experiencing the villa and falling in love with it. One bride attended her high-school prom at Villa Antonia and dreamed about getting married there for the following 12 years. She just booked her wedding for this year. “We love weddings and we love happy couples and families,” Vaughn says, “which is why we include a venue-coordinating team with every booking. Most couples are planning the biggest event that they will ever plan, their wedding day. We have an amazing coordinating team that executes the plans that the couples make so they can enjoy their day, knowing that someone else is sweating the details.” 19039 Adrian Way, Jonestown, Texas, 512.267.3509, villaantonia.com
Photo courtesy of Amy Weison Photography.
When you fall in love with a place so much as a guest that you end up buying it, chances are it’s pretty special. That’s exactly what happened to Kate and Matt McCabe after they visited Villa Antonia. The couple first set foot on the estate when they attended a wedding there at the end of 2011 and were instantly smitten by the romantic Italian-style villa in the middle of the Texas Hill Country. A couple years later, when they saw the property was up for sale, the McCabes didn’t hesitate to buy it. This spectacular mansion has the look and feel of Old World Europe, like a castle straight from a fairy tale, featuring 360-degree views of the Hill Country. This gem of an estate was built in 1999 as a labor of love by Antonia “Toni” Sharp, who originally created it as her personal residence. She had searched for years for the perfect piece of land, even analyzing the patterns of the breezes that meandered up from the canyons before she painstakingly designed her dream home. The place was so magnificent that soon, people were stopping by for a closer look, and couples began asking if they could hold weddings at this picturesque villa. Spurred by so many requests, Sharp began to transform the property into an event venue, adding a quaint white chapel and romantic rose garden, as well as magnificent stone terraces to amplify its European charm. Stone walls and archways were sourced from a canyon on the property, adding plenty of Texas Hill Country flair as well. Sharp’s daughter and mother meticulously placed every tree and plant, further contributing to the family’s labor of love.
ATXWOMAN.COM | 59
THE ADDISON GROVE because of the city’s thriving entrepreneurial culture, combined with its vibrant hospitality community,” Randig says. The venue opened in September 2016 and hosted more than 90 events in 2018. In addition to the capacious barn and its attached 1,800-square-foot covered patio, where guests gather for cocktails and lawn games, the property also offers an 1,800-square-foot bridal house. This elegant retreat features a mesmerizing manicured garden with a pond situated perfectly under towering oak trees, creating a tranquil setting that’s the perfect locale for mentally preparing for the big day. A separate groom’s suite is located at the other end of the property and includes an outdoor patio, games table and fully stocked refrigerator. While it offers a bucolic country setting that feels much farther away from the big city than it actually is, The Addison Grove boasts all the high-tech modern conveniences any bride could hope for. The barn features a green room with a TV and Wi-Fi, comfy couches and a private restroom, while the fully equipped prep kitchen meets the needs of any caterer. The entire property features uplighting and downlighting throughout, creating a magical Hill Country setting both during the day and into the evening.
60 | AUSTIN WOMAN | FEBRUARY 2019
Many couples choose an outdoor ceremony in the grove, a natural yet groomed spot under the live-oak canopy, or at the pond for a tranquil backdrop. “While our main focus will always be weddings and special events, we are very excited to be in the early stages of planning a few events…that will be open to the community to come enjoy a piece of our paradise,” Randig says. “A few we’re particularly excited about [are] an annual bridal showcase featuring some of Austin’s best wedding vendors, the Texas Crawfish Palooza and Briskets, Brews and Blues.” Never overlooking any detail, the folks behind Heyens Holdings opened the company’s third venture, Native Bloom, a full-service floral studio, to offer gorgeous floral designs to clients as well, with a studio located onsite at The Addison Grove. And Heyens and Strenkowski recently opened another wedding venue, The Ivory Oak, in Wimberley, Texas, proving that when it comes to wedding venues, there’s never too much of a good thing. “We are so fortunate,” Randig says, “to be surrounded by some of Austin’s best to bring fun events full of great music, food and drinks.” 11903 Fitzhugh Road 512.904.9656, theaddisongrove.com
Photo by Julie Wilhite.
Rustic weddings in country settings have long been popular, but the game is elevated to a whole new level at The Addison Grove, home to a stunning and stylish 6,000-square-foot barn. Far from a typical Texas barn, this gorgeous space is a welcome juxtaposition of pastoral and modern. Glittering chandeliers hang from the soaring rafters, while oversized windows and sliding glass doors fill the room with natural light and bring the outdoors in. “The barn is the perfect complement to the property’s natural character and crisp neutral canvas,” says Alisha Randig, director of events at The Addison Grove. “It is a perfect combination of rustic elegance surrounded by the beauty of the Texas Hill Country. The property has several beautiful, large oak trees whose branches provide much-needed shade for ceremonies during the summer. Our lawn’s lush green grass, as well as a spring-fed pond, complete the picturesque backdrop for any event. Guests are also often drawn to the fire pit located under a canopy of large oaks that overlook the pasture, home to our six longhorns.” Randig says while guests might find it surprising longhorn steer call The Addison Grove home, she notes the animals are really big cuddle bugs. “They love to gather for treats or a selfie or two with our couples and their guests,” she divulges. The sprawling, picturesque property, located about 15 minutes southwest of downtown Austin, is a property of Heyens Holdings, owned by brother-and-sister team Matt Heyens and Jodi Strenkowski. The siblings opened their first venue in Raleigh, N.C., but when they looked to expand, they were very intentional about their choice of Austin. “Heyens Holdings selected Austin for its second location
ATXWOMAN.COM |  61
Photo courtesy of Bonnie & Lauren Photography.
G
OURMET
RECIPE REVEAL
CUTE AS PIE
Cook up a special delivery this Valentine’s Day with Tiny Pies’ Love Letter Pie. BY COURTNEY RUNN
62 | AUSTIN WOMAN | FEBRUARY 2019
Since 2011, Amanda Bates and Kit Seay have been serving up pies that are not only adorably tiny, but also delicious. The mother-daughter team partners with local farmers to create their seasonal menu, which includes both sweet and savory options. Staples like sweet Texas pecan, key lime and apple pies remain on the menu all year, while more inventive pie creations like pear cranberry, blueberry lemon lavender and pumpkin chai come and go. For the perfect addition to a Galentine’s Day party, treat your gal pals to Tiny Pies’ February favorite, the Love Letter Pie. For double the sweetness, check the Austin Woman website later this month for a second decadent Valentine’s Day recipe from Tiny Pies, chocolate beet torte pie.
TINY PIES’ LOVE LETTER PIE Ingredients 1 6-inch-by-6-inch square of pie dough 1/8-inch thick 3 1/2 ounces pie filling (Tiny Pies uses cherry-pie filling.) Egg wash (Mix an egg with 1 tablespoon of water, milk or cream.)
Directions 1. P lace the square of pie dough on a lightly floured surface with the corners of the square pointing to the top and bottom of the work surface, like a diamond. 2. P lace the filling slightly off-center from the bottom of the diamond. 3. L ightly brush 1/4 to 1/2 inch of the bottom two edges of the pastry with the egg wash. 4. F old over the left side of the pastry toward the center so the point lands in the middle of the square on top of the cherry filling. Next, fold the bottom point toward the middle so the point lands in the middle on top of the cherry filling. 5. Lightly crimp the newly created seam on the left side. 6. F old the next piece of dough, with the point meeting the other two points in the middle. Press the remaining edges together. The whole pie should resemble an open envelope with cherries spilling out. 7. L ightly brush egg wash on the top of the pastry, avoiding the filling.
Pie photo courtesy of Kathleen Pieratt Photography. Mother and daughter photo courtesy of Tiny Pies.
8. C hill for two hours. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Bake the pie on a parchment-lined sheet pan for 15 to 20 minutes, turning halfway through cooking so it browns evenly.
ATXWOMAN.COM | 63
G
OURMET
FOOD NEWS
A CONTEMPORARY FEAST FOR THE SENSES
Épicerie is set to open its second location at Laguna Gloria. BY MEAGAN LEAHY
“It will essentially be like a trailer. I mean, it’s an amazing, very beautiful, very expensive trailer,” McIntosh explains. The lack of indoor seating is meant to encourage an experience among art and nature. The tasty fare is meant to be an amenity to complement that experience, a goal that means McIntosh will regularly make changes to the menu, the cornerstones of which will be light snacks and bites. “We’re focusing more on grab-and-go foods, things people can take in a to-go box and eat really easily,” the chef says, noting this will include a Laguna Gloria is the spectacular 14-acre outdoor space housing number of McIntosh’s prized salads and sandwiches, along with her readythe Betty and Edward Marcus Sculpture Park, the Art School and to-nosh nibbles and cheeses. the Driscoll Villa. The Contemporary Austin While the menu will differ from that of the Rosedale team began revitalizing the landscape and Épicerie, the bulk of the café’s grocery items will be “People can grab some architecture of the space last March and had available to order. A massive display window will host been searching for the perfect restaurant to jam, grab some cheese, the jams, fermented products, butters, coffees and spices open at Laguna Gloria. McIntosh may have bread and just sit in the McIntosh and her team make in-house. The new space been skeptical at first, but once she understood will also sell many of the locally and seasonally sourced the whole concept, she was sold. Thus began park and look at art.” products that can be found at the original location, such as the launch of Épicerie at The Contemporary. local beers, wines, beans and more. McIntosh first opened Épicerie in 2012 as a Residing at Laguna Gloria, Épicerie at The Contemporary will be quaint grocery and café featuring food McIntosh coins as “Louisiana available to cater both private and public events. McIntosh already has Cajun meets Texas and French cuisine.” Situated in the Rosedale ideas, such as a pig roast or a burger bar, for public events hosted on the neighborhood of Austin, Épicerie rapidly became a neighborhood grounds. favorite. And while McIntosh loves the restaurant, she’s ready for a While McIntosh expresses the relative ease of opening a second new challenge. location, compared with her first experience, Épicerie at The “I think if you ask anybody that’s creative, it’s hard to stay still. You Contemporary will have unique difficulties to overcome. McIntosh, just feel stagnant. I think that’s why this project is so exciting to me, however, sees this as an exciting challenge rather than a daunting because it hits all those points,” McIntosh says. undertaking and is thrilled to blend her varying artistic talents in Épicerie at The Contemporary, which is scheduled to open this this project. spring, will be a very different space than McIntosh’s inaugural “People can grab some jam, grab some cheese, bread and just sit in the restaurant. Guests can order at a walk-up window and either take park and look at art,” McIntosh says. “It fits us. It fits them. It all kind of food to go in a picnic bag or opt to eat under a shaded terrace in the came together perfectly.” outdoor-seating area.
Photos courtesy of Resplendent Hospitality.
Chef Sarah McIntosh is an ideas person. She loves engaging in the creative process and dreaming up what could be. But when Louis Grachos, CEO of The Contemporary Austin and a regular diner at McIntosh’s beloved café, Épicerie, pitched her on the idea of opening a restaurant at Laguna Gloria, she had a lot of questions.
64 | AUSTIN WOMAN | FEBRUARY 2019
Authentic Interior Mexican Cuisine. Exquisite Atmosphere. Unparalleled Art.
20% Off
2 or more Bottles of French Wine*
Mix & Match
nc
io n
Fr e
ne
el
e b r at
C E L E B R AT E ! 2330 W. North Loop | Austin, Texas | 512.459.4121 | www.FondaSanMiguel.com
WANT TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS? LVO XC60
AUSTIN
THE 2018 VO
WOMAN
90+ locations throughout Central Texas
MAGAZINE | MAY 2018
*French Wine Sale runs 2/1/19-2/23/19. Discount off regular priced 750ml bottles of French wine. Some exclusions apply. Please drink responsibly.
AUSTIN WOMAN MAGA ZINE
Winner of Utility Vehicthe 2018 North Amer le of the Year ™ awar ican d.
| JUNE 2018
of Texas
by the Texas
Auto Writer
s Assoc
iation
AUSTIN WOMAN
IF ON LY EVER YT TO YOUR WILLHI NG BENT SO EASILY
ée Laud
it.” —Est
VOLVO CARS OF AUSTIN VOLVO | MOVING CARS OF THIS MON GEORGE TH TO 7216 TOWN | 7501 N. IH-3 S IH-35 5 • 512-4 Volvo Cars (EXIT 257) 02-5554 of North America • VOLVOAU • 855-255, LLC. The Iron Mark STIN .COM 5788 • VOLV is a register ed tradema OGEORG rk of Volvo. ETOWN.CO M
©2018
ss. I work ed for
| OCTOBER 2018
t succe
ed abou
MAGAZINE
r dream
“I neve
If it were The 201 any more responsi 8 Volvo XC60 has ve, it would read go prec customiz your mind Blind Spo isely where you able Drive . t Informati want. And Mod on Syst safety featu es to res like where you em that helps you don’t. All to enhanceavoid going your drive . Volvo Cars Experience it for your of Austin and Geo self at rgetown .
er
ys unde ess is alwa to succ
3 Day
DOLLAR SALE
Tomlin
g you’re passionat e about and keep
“Find somethin
—Lily truction.” r cons
ging less char et. A wire simple, but te bask bin. A was een. They all seem technology and hscr they us Touc design, storage XC40. And the new lity, store your few of the building ona tyle. went into show your pers busy lifes your to ne ted amli crea s and stre SUV at ust-have newest own. rget to see our Stop by Austin and Geo of Cars Volvo
2018 SUV
as voted
“The road
TAILS ADD REDS OF DE 2019 XC40 O THE NEW
.COM OAUSTIN OM 96 • VOLV ETOWN.C OGEORG 29 • VOLV
1-23 y ar F E B ru 9 201
C
“I’ve got my eye on you.”
h Wi
tremendously interested in it.” —Julia Child
CO M I N G S O O N !
Put your message in front of thousands of potential customers by advertising with Austin Woman, your best resource to reach decision makers in Austin.
Follow us on social media to be the first to hear about dates and details!
Call 512.328.2421 or email sales@awmediainc.com
@TWINLIQUORS • TWINLIQUORS.COM
atxwoman.com
G
OURMET
SEE HER WORK
A SLICE OF ART
With a background in nutrition and a flair for the whimsical, Danaë Smale makes sustainably sourced wedding cakes that are real works of art. BY COURTNEY RUNN
“[It’s] like a cheese-and-wine pairing,” she explains, “but way more fun!” Ever since she was a 4-year-old with a baking hobby, Smale imagined one day owning her own bakery. She started her first business—a cookie-on-a-stick enterprise— at the ripe age of 7 and discovered her love for baking and decorating cakes in high school. After teaching herself via YouTube videos and cake-decorating classes at craft store Michael’s, Smale won first prize in a statewide cake competition and made her first wedding cake as a teenager. She studied community health in college, thinking a career in health care would take priority to her baking side hustle, but her degree only lent more depth to her real passion: cake. In 2016, she opened Feathers & Frosting, a company with a “light and airy” name she hoped would draw fellow whimsically minded clientele. With her background in nutrition, Smale bakes with local and organic ingredients. From gathering carrots at her local farmers market for carrot cake to achieving her cakes’ signature rich taste with honey from Austin Honey Company, Smale not only cares about giving her clients the best ingredients possible, but also savors supporting other small-business owners and stimulating the local economy. Her cake flavors— lemon and rosemary, Earl Grey and lavender, blood orange and thyme, to name a few—are sophisticated yet playful, reminiscent of the reality-TV cake shows featuring elaborate flavor profiles she grew up loving. Though she’s busy becoming Central Texas’ newest cake-and-cocktail connoisseuse, bohemian brides need not fear. Smale’s true love remains wedding cakes. From sparkling geode cakes to elegant water-colored cakes to subdued black cakes, Smale is not ready to retire her artistic flair quite yet.
66 | AUSTIN WOMAN | FEBRUARY 2019
Top photo by Danaë Smale. Bottom left photo by Paige Vaughn. Bottom right photo by Penelope L’amore.
Danaë Smale has temporarily traded in her paintbrush for a sledgehammer for her latest project: building her dream bakery. The brickand-mortar location of Feathers & Frosting opens this spring in downtown Round Rock, Texas. The location will not only serve as a co-working space and studio for her cake workshops, but will double as a coffee shop featuring cake-and-cocktail pairings.
“Cake should not just be for special occasions. It should be for every day.”
Photo by Kate Zimmerman Turpin.
– Danaë Smale
ATXWOMAN.COM | 67
W
ELLNESS
EAT THIS, NOT THAT
MACA MORE LOVE
Superfood maca powder can rev up your libido. BY JENNY HOFF
If you’re looking to stay natural and boost your libido during this season of love, maca may prove a more effective aphrodisiac than oysters or dark chocolate. Maca is a plant that grows in the Andes Mountains and is known to help with a variety of issues, including menopause, fertility woes, anemia and low libido in men and women. So, if you want to bring a little more romance into your relationship without having to pop a prescribed pill, consider adding a little maca powder to your morning routine.
HOW TO USE IT: Toss some maca powder into a smoothie, into some coffee or use it in a homemade energy bar. Maca comes in powder or whole-root form. Powder is easiest to incorporate into your daily routine, but be sure to read tips about how to slowly introduce it into your diet to avoid any side effects. The best kind on the market is high-quality organic maca powder.
EAT THIS: Maca powder NOT THAT: Store-bought or prescription libido pills SAYS WHO: Many functional medicine doctors espouse the
use of maca powder to boost libido, including Austin-based Dr. Amy Myers, whose website lists maca root as one of her top five foods to combat hormonal imbalance, including low libido. Herbalists and holistic practitioners also suggest using maca to boost hormones in both men and women, as well as to help with fertility problems. WHY: While it’s not exactly clear why maca helps with hormone issues, it is high in minerals and vitamins like vitamin C, E and magnesium, iron, fatty acids and amino acids, making it a healthy hormone booster. Although research hasn’t indicated a change in estrogen or testosterone levels in the few studies that have been conducted, there have been some promising results in participants. In several double-blind studies, participants reported increased libido, even if they were taking antidepressants, which can lower sex drive. As an adaptogen, maca root can also help your body fight off stress, another leading cause of loss of libido.
Ingredients
Directions
2 tablespoons organic maca powder
1. Add all ingredients except the water to a food processor and blend until it is sticky enough to form a dough. Add a bit of water if needed.
1 cup unsalted cashews 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds 1 cup dried dates, pitted 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut 1 tablespoon coconut oil 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 tablespoon raw organic cacao powder 1 tablespoon ground flax seed Water, as needed
68 | AUSTIN WOMAN | FEBRUARY 2019
2. S pread the dough on an 8-inch-by8-inch pan lined with parchment paper to about 1/4- to 1/2-inch thick. Freeze it for an hour and then cut the dough into squares. 3. W rap each bar individually for a quick on-the-go treat.
Energy bar photo by Jenny Hoff.
MACA MORE LOVE ENERGY BAR
Sponsored Content
GREAT SEX DOESN’T HAVE TO STOP What defines perfect sex? Well, we can say you won’t necessarily find it in an erotic fiction novel or a Hollywood sex scene because there is no right or wrong way to enjoy sex. Your sex life and how you find pleasure are unique to you, and that might not fit into the facade society paints for us. And hey, that’s OK! But what if you consistently can’t reach orgasm or you experience pain during intercourse or you know something just isn’t right when you’re trying to get in the mood? Don’t ignore what your mind and body are telling you when it comes to sex; something bigger may actually be going on. looking at a patient as a whole person allows them to develop a care plan From a biological framework, the stages of sex can be broadly thought of as the arousal phase, plateau phase, orgasm phase and resolution phase. The that meets each patient’s specific needs. inability of a woman to fully experience some or all of the various physical “For some women, it’s about managing the underlying conditions, such stages the body normally experiences during sex in a healthy and pleasurable as pelvic pain or prolapse, and for others, it’s managing the daily mental way can be defined as sexual dysfunction. Female sexual dysfunction is quite and emotional stresses of life and understanding their own sexual needs and common, affecting about one in every five women. It can take many forms pleasures,” Ossai explains. and can have numerous causes. So, if you’re reading this and thinking, “Dang, this is me. Female sexual dysfunction is Doctor of physical therapy Uchenna Ossai and I’m having similar issues and don’t know what to do,” well, nurse practitioner Kita Laird of the UT Health quite common, affecting about first things first: Don’t beat yourself up about it! Austin Women’s Health Institute explain that “Many women come into the office feeling very defeated one in every five women. defining the causes of sexual dysfunction aren’t as about their inability to please their partners and enjoy sex, clear-cut as we may think they are. and our job is to normalize it for them,” Ossai says. “We tell our patients “Many patients assume their inability to engage in or enjoy sex is that this problem is common because it is. It happens to both men and related to their hormones. Yes, that may be a cause, but usually, it’s not just women, and we can help you fix it.” one thing,” Ossai says. “There may be other factors involved, including Second, go see your doctor. Whether it’s your primary-care doctor or your anatomical issues such as pelvic-floor dysfunction, as well as psychological, women’s-health specialist, your health-care providers can help you understand sociocultural and interpersonal.” the causes of your sexual dysfunction and the best ways to address them. As unique as your sex life is to you, your treatment plan for sexual dysfunction should also be just as individualized. Laird and Ossai explain Learn more by calling 1.833.UT.CARES or visit uthealthaustin.org.
W
ELLNESS
WAITING ROOM
DEFINING PERSONALITY
Austin Woman chatted with local author and podcaster Jamie Ivey about the latest personality-test craze, the Enneagram. BY COURTNEY RUNN, ILLUSTRATIONS BY MADISON WEAKLEY
Myers-Briggs is out; the Enneagram is in. The latest trend in personality tests, the Enneagram divides people into nine categories, with each corresponding number correlating with a driving, core motivation. Each number has a basic fear (being unwanted, being useless, etc.), a basic desire (to protect oneself, to have inner stability, etc.) and a key motivation. Dating back to antiquity, with the modern iteration developed in the 1970s, it’s experienced a revival in the past few years. While there are both free and paid tests available online to help you determine your number, many Enneagram experts suggest studying the numbers instead to see what resonates most. (The Enneagram Institute provides free, thorough descriptions of each number online.)
Austin Woman: How did you discover the Enneagram? Jamie Ivey: I have my podcast, The Happy Hour, and I would interview people and they would always ask me, “What’s your number?” and then I did a book tour in 2018 and every question was, “What’s your Enneagram number?” and finally, I was like, “I have got to figure this thing out.” [My husband] and I went on a little getaway and while we were there, we both took the test and both read the book by Ian Morgan Cron and Suzanne Stabile, The Road Back to You.
Jamie Ivey, a local podcaster and author, often talks about the Enneagram on her show, even interviewing leading Enneagram expert Suzanne Stabile during an August episode last year. While some might dismiss it as a fad, Ivey argues regardless of its longevity, the Enneagram is a helpful tool for understanding the best and most difficult parts of yourself. As a 6, known as The Loyalist, one of her basic motivations in life is fear. We asked her to share her journey with the Enneagram and how it’s helped her accept her personality and overcome fear in everyday life.
AW: A lot of people have a hard time accepting their number since it tends to highlight the negative aspects of personalities. What was your reaction to finding out you’re a 6? JI: I first wanted to be a 3. I really wanted to be a 3 because in my mind, 3s are people who get things done and they make things happen. One of the things Suzanne taught me is that when I’m in stress, what I would go to would be a 3 because sometimes I can take on 3 qualities and look like a 3, but deep down, what drives me is a 6. Once I realized that, a lot of light bulbs went off and I went, “This is why I am the way I am. This is why I do things I do.”
AW: Why do you think personality tests are so popular? People were obsessed with Myers-Briggs and now the Enneagram seems to be having a moment. JI: Deep down in all our cores, we desire to be known. So, I think that’s just in every human being. I feel more known in my relationship with my husband after figuring this out.
AW: How has learning about the Enneagram changed your relationship with yourself and others? JI: [The Enneagram has] helped me see that there’s nothing wrong with me. I’m not this weird person who constantly thinks of worst-case scenarios. But it’s helped me honestly see that this is a part of my personality. I’m not then going to go, “Oh, I get a pass [and] I get to always be anxious,” because I don’t think that’s what the Enneagram is for at all. I think it’s to say, “Hey, this is a part of my personality and now that I know this, for me personally, even as a Christian, I don’t want to live in fear.” I don’t want to always be fearful. It’s helped me say I know this is part of my personality, so how are we going to fight this today and not sit in it? It helped my marriage, my parenting. AW: How can the Enneagram get misused? JI: In a job situation, you can always say, “Oh, this is just how I am. I can’t be positive about this because I’m a 6.” Or a 1 could say, “I’m just a perfectionist, so you’re not doing it right, so you’re fired.” We can take those [so-called] negative aspects about ourselves and then stand on them, like, “This is who I am,” instead of putting the work in. AW: How do you practice self-care as a 6? JI: One thing that’s been helpful for me is letting go of everything and going out on a walk because I feel like there, I can just be alone; I can really be with my thoughts. I can see them from a different world. Now my husband knows. … I’ll come to him and say, “I don’t need you to fix anything. And I don’t need you to actually say anything back but I’m just going to tell you these thoughts I’m having right now.” Jamie Ivey and her husband, Aaron, will speak on a local panel with Suzanne Stabile Feb. 28. Get tickets for Parenting and the Enneagram at lifeinthetrinityministry.com/store/parents. 70 | AUSTIN WOMAN | FEBRUARY 2019
Cat Donohoe and Hannah Eubank are therapists with Austin Relational Wellness who use the Enneagram in their practice. They also help lead the monthly South Austin Enneagram Meetup the first Tuesday of each month, during which Enneagram newcomers and enthusiasts alike can learn more about the test and connect with others interested in the Enneagram. While each number is experienced uniquely, there are common stressors and reactions to pain, so we asked Donohoe and Eubank to share their self-care tips for each number.
The Reformer Tip: Practice self-compassion
The Helper Tip: Set boundaries
The Achiever
An obstacle for 1s is drowning out the voice of the harsh inner critic. They should combat negative self-talk with a regular self-compassion practice. Check out Austin-based Kristin Neff’s work for more information about selfcompassion and how to put it into practice.
People who are 2s strive to connect with others through helping. Recognize you don’t have to say yes to everyone and set appropriate boundaries for yourself. Make sure to take time each day to check in with yourself about how you feel and what you need.
People who are 3s can let the expectations of others form their ideas of success. Get clear on what you want by creating a vision board based on your own values, feelings and desires.
The Individualist Tip: Express gratitude
The Investigator Tip: Seek connection
The Loyalist Tip: Cultivate courage
People who are 4s tend to focus on what’s missing. Balance this by starting your day with a gratitude practice. You can start by keeping a gratitude journal. Write down three to five things you’re grateful for each day.
People who are 5s are often protective of their energy, but we all need connection. Call a friend, grab a coffee and enjoy one another’s company.
People who are 6s can get stuck in worst-casescenario thinking and can benefit by reinforcing their courage. Remind yourself of your bravery and ability to make good things happen by coming up with your own positive affirmation about who you are.
The Enthusiast Tip: Slow down
The Challenger
The Peacemaker
Tip: Get vulnerable
Tip: Make moves
People who are 7s can experience severe fear of missing out and tend to believe more is more. Excess isn’t always better, as it can lead to burnout. Consider scheduling some downtime for yourself to focus on being OK with where you are and what you already have.
People who are 8s often struggle to let their guard down. Challenge yourself to find a person you can open up to and embrace your softer side. Acknowledge vulnerability does not equal weakness. Research professor Brené Brown’s work is a great place to start.
People who are 9s tend to get stuck in procrastination. Get the ball rolling by writing down small goals in a journal so you can cross them off your list. There are also some great apps out there to help you stay organized.
Tip: Connect with your values
ATXWOMAN.COM | 71
W
ELLNESS
HER ROUTINE
BLADES OF GLORIA Figure skater Gloria Moore glides her way to a healthy lifestyle. STORY AND PHOTO BY GRETCHEN M. SANDERS
72 | AUSTIN WOMAN | FEBRUARY 2019
Gloria Moore grew up ice skating in Prospect Park in Brooklyn, N.Y., in the 1960s. She never had formal figure-skating lessons, but she thought the sport was beautiful and loved watching Dorothy Hamill and Debi Thomas glide gracefully and powerfully across the ice. In high school, Moore studied dance at The School of Performing Arts in Manhattan, N.Y. “I learned about body posture, graceful arms and looking up when I perform,” she says. Then, in her mid-20s, Moore attended the University of Texas for graduate school and took her first skating lesson at Chaparral Ice in Austin. During the next 30 years, she got married, became a special-education teacher, had two children and moved to several states. But no matter what changes life brought, she always found an ice rink and carved out time to practice her spins, spirals and edges. Today, Moore, who’s now 60, lives in South Austin and teaches hearing-impaired students in the Hays Consolidated Independent School District. She takes private and group skating lessons at Chaparral Ice and volunteers to help instruct a Special Olympics class for adult skaters with disabilities. Occasionally, she also competes. Skating to Eva Cassidy’s version of “Over the Rainbow” last June, Moore won first place in her division at the Bluebonnet Open, a local competition. Her routine included an impressive salchow/toe-loop jump combination. “I love expression and movement,” Moore says. “I don’t care if I win. I just want people to feel something when I skate.” Here’s how this ice queen keeps gliding. THE A.M.: “I wake up at 5 a.m. every morning and get to work by 7 a.m. I believe in breakfast, so I have hot cereal and orange juice before I go. If I’m preparing for a skating event, I listen to my competition music over and over again on the drive. I have to know it well.” THE WORKOUT: “I skate once or twice a week for 45 minutes to two and a half hours each time; it depends on the class I’m taking and whether we’re rehearsing for a show. Skating tones leg muscles and works the core. You need power, flow and good technique. At work, I’m also constantly moving. I’m on my feet all day in the classroom and on the playground. It’s quite busy. Occasionally, I’ll do 20 minutes on my exercise bike at home.”
THE DIET: “I have high cholesterol, which is genetic, but I still try to eat a low-fat, low-cholesterol diet. I stay away from red meat, and I don’t drink alcohol. I do have a daily dessert without going overboard. My husband does most of the cooking at home. Spaghetti, turkey burgers and chicken are some things we like for dinner. I bring my lunch to work or have what’s served at school. I eat something simple before skating because I will exert lots of energy on the ice. Lately, I’ve been mixing two tablespoons of apple-cider vinegar and some cinnamon, honey and cayenne pepper into 20 ounces of water. The vinegar is supposed to help with anxiety and it may have factored into my improved cholesterol levels.” THE GEAR: “After the beginner levels of skating, you need your own skates. I wear Riedell Skates that I bought 15 years ago for $300, including the blades. A new pair would cost $900 or more today. I have my blades sharpened four to six times a year. I choose to wear a Crasche headband in case I fall. It’s reinforced with plastic and foam pads on all sides, and it protects the back of my head. As a special-education teacher, I know how important it is to protect against head injuries. For clothes, I wear a jacket, dry-tech shirts, tights and form-fitting pants that won’t get caught in my blades. I can always shed layers once I get moving. For my last competition, I bought a blue sequin dress online at Discount Skatewear. It cost $100, but it’s pretty!” THE MOTIVATION: “I love the artistry of figure skating. It’s challenging and frustrating. When I’m on the ice, I can focus only on what I’m doing. I have to leave everything else behind.” THE MINDSET: “Don’t give up!” THE P.M.: “I pray and say good night to my husband.”
ATXWOMAN.COM | 73
P
OINT OF VIEW
ON THE MONEY
THE ART OF NEGOTIATION
Ask for what you’re really worth. BY JENNY HOFF
One of the best ways to get what you want is to ask for it. But it’s not as easy as it sounds. Asking for something opens up the possibility of rejection and discomfort. Many of us go to great lengths to avoid asking for anything, and while that can be a noble pursuit, more often than not, it results in leaving money on the table, money that could be enriching your life, bettering the lives of others and setting you up for retirement. Learning how to ask with finesse and confidence provides you a powerful tool to add to your skill set, and it’s a crucial element to successfully negotiating. Negotiation expert, speaker and author Linda Swindling suggests some strategies for mastering the art of asking so you can start taking control of what—and how much of it—you get in life.
3. RESPECT THE GATEKEEPER.
If you’re applying for a job or trying to land a deal, it’s important to treat every person you encounter along the way with respect. Someone may seem like a less significant player in the company, but the gatekeepers can keep you from talking to the person who can make the decision. “The gatekeeper can’t say yes,” Swindling says, “but they can sure say no.” 4. NEGOTIATE FOR THE FUTURE, NOT THE PAST.
If you’re looking to negotiate a higher salary at your current job, know the odds are in your favor. “A little more than half of people get a raise when they ask for it,” Swindling says. “And 8 percent get more than what they asked for.” However, it’s not just about saying you want or deserve more; you need to prove you’ll bring even greater value to the company or client going forward. You can discuss what you’ve accomplished thus far, but make sure you’re also prepared to talk about what you plan to accomplish in the future. The more concrete your plans are, the better. For instance, if your company has increased sales by a certain percentage, strategize how you plan to increase that percentage in the near future. If your job success isn’t as easy to quantify, you can still talk about the significance your strategy will have on the company’s brand, operations or whatever department you work with. But remember it’s about the future and not just what you’ve already accomplished.
1. SMART SMALL AND PRACTICE OFTEN.
Asking can create adrenaline in the body, and it doesn’t really matter if it’s asking for something small or something much more significant; the effect on your body is the same. That’s why Swindling recommends starting small, so when you have a big ask, you’re physically and mentally prepared for the discomfort. In her book Ask Outrageously! The Secret to Getting What You Really Want, she recounts a survey that showed the No. 1 thing people were afraid to ask was whether they could cut in line. That’s a good place for you to start. The next time you’re at the grocery store, ask the person in front of you if you can check out first. She may say no, and Swindling says that’s the point. If you ask for things in low-risk scenarios, you’ll be more comfortable asking in a situation in which the outcome really matters. Garage sales also offer great opportunities to get practice. Stop by a sale and ask whether you can get a lower price on a toy or other small item. Practice as often as possible and soon, asking will become second nature.
5. ASK FOR THE GREATER GOOD.
Many people, women especially, are better at asking on behalf of other people than for themselves. If that incentivizes you more, Swindling recommends mentally putting yourself in that position. When you’re asking for a raise or a better deal, tell yourself you are asking on behalf of your family or community. With more money, you’ll be able to give loved ones the things they need or donate more to a cause you believe in. As long as you are honest and have good intentions, you never need to fear asking for what you want. Your boss, potential employer or clients will likely appreciate the transparency. And if they don’t, it might save you from spending years in a dead-end job or with business partners that aren’t a good fit. People will better understand your worth if you tell them, and no one knows what you want better than you do, so don’t be afraid to ask for it!
Now that you feel more comfortable asking or negotiating for smaller things, you’ll want to make sure you’re prepared for the big negotiations. Part of preparing is researching what is actually possible. For most job positions or deals, there is an upper limit people are willing to pay—even if they don’t tell you what that limit is. Your goal is to get as close to that upper limit as possible without suggesting an amount so out of the ballpark that the negotiation is halted before it can even begin. Searching an online resource like glassdoor.com to determine an appropriate salary for your job or researching what your competition is charging when dealmaking can help guide you to the upper-limit neighborhood of what an employer or client is willing to pay.
74 | AUSTIN WOMAN | FEBRUARY 2019
Headshot courtesy of Jenny Hoff.
2. DO YOUR RESEARCH.
7 YEARS AS AN EYELASH SPECIALTY SALON IN AUSTIN
ShopS at RiveR place 10601 FM 2222 Suite i auStin, tx 78730 512.346.laSh open M-F 9-7 Sat 9-6
atxvolumelashandbrow.com
AUSTIN’S ORIGINAL WIG SALON. SERVING CUSTOMERS ALL OVER TEXAS FOR OVER 50 YEARS. PROFESSIONAL STYLING
CUSTOM FITTING PRIVATE ROOMS
PERSONAL APPOINTMENTS
HAIRPIECES
WE SPECIALIZE IN WIGS FOR CHEMO & RADIATION PATIENTS
Anders o
n Ln.
Burn
Mo
pa c
N
et
NORTHWOOD PLAZA 2900 W. Anderson Ln., Ste H | 512.323.9220 O P E N : M-F: 10am-5:30pm | Sa: 10am-4pm
www.SERENITYWIGANDSALON . com
P
OINT OF VIEW
I AM AUSTIN WOMAN
PUTTING YOURSELF FIRST
ing in my personal cave at home. There was no dramatic I understood that how I cared moment when my burnout for myself had the potential to began. Instead, it happened influence my children in how they gradually during a period should also respond to their own of years. self-care needs. I have devoted a significant I learned lawyers rank high in portion of my life to academia the rate of suicide among variand working. Although law ous professionals. Although I am school prepared me to become fortunate to live in Austin, a city a lawyer, the curriculum failed robust with health and wellness to mention rest, recovery and options that I can easily access, overall well-being. For years, I could have easily become a staI worked excessively while tistic had I not found my way out sacrificing my health in the of the burnout I experienced. Not process. everyone is so fortunate. I embraced being a wife and I founded The Spa in Me to help mother. As a working parent other women make self-care an of two sons with a husband ongoing practice in their careers who has an equally demandand motherhood. We do this by ofing career, I lived in a constant fering an annual one-day retreat in state of movement. With no an outdoorsy and remote area near signs of slowing down, and Austin. Women are introduced without knowing any other to self-care practices they can way to exist, I thrust myself easily implement at home, such into this busy lifestyle. Howas listening to music, journaling, ever, when my sons’ activities yoga, nature walks, eating nutridecreased as they got older, I tious food and simply being still. felt lost. For the first time in We also offer a scholarship to one my adulthood, I had moments woman to attend the retreat and to of stillness. I had no hobbies. stay in the lodging on-site. I exercised inconsistently. I We also created Dear Cousin didn’t know how to counter Kay, a self-care advice podcast. the burnout and stress. Women write letters seeking adThis realization was my vice using anonymous names. The awakening. I changed my podcast is a great way for women lifestyle to carve out time to realize they aren’t alone in for myself to better manage their struggles to prioritize their my stress. I stopped workI changed my lifestyle to carve needs in the midst of competing ing weekends and long hours. out time for myself to better responsibilities. I limited the number of pro Next month, we will start a bono cases I accepted. I used manage my stress. monthly board-game night for my free time to explore various women to gather and play Sparked, a game created to spark activities. This exploration eventually laughter, conversation, connectivity and community. helped me to live with more clarity and ease. I’m proud that I’ve helped women to include self-care in their I enjoyed activities that helped me to slow down, quiet my mind lives. However, until women instinctively embrace their own worth, and spend time outdoors. I discovered spas, hiking trails, yoga and there is still so much more work to do. I invite any woman intereven completed yoga-teacher training. I also won a bodybuilding ested in finding self-care tools that might work best for them to competition in the masters bikini category. I started to feel less connect with The Spa in Me. You can find us at thespainme.com. guilty when spending time away from my family or when hibernat-
76 | AUSTIN WOMAN | FEBRUARY 2019
Photo by Richard Martinez.
Founder Sandra Foreman reflects on overcoming burnout through self-care and why she started The Spa in Me, which helps other women prioritize self-care and self-love.
2900 West Anderson ln. | Locally owned | Weekdays 10 AM - 6 PM | Sat. 10 AM - 5 PM | 512.452.6491 | BENOLDS.COM
AUSTIN WOMAN MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2019
A PLACE FOR EVERY THING, INCLUDING AWARDS The Volvo XC40 has been named the 2019 Compact Luxury SUV of Texas by The Texas Auto Writers Association.
VOLVO CARS OF AUSTIN | 7216 N. IH-35 • 866-974-6096 • VOLVOAUSTIN.COM ©2019 Volvo Cars of North America, LLC. The Iron Mark is a registered trademark of Volvo.
“I know for sure that love saves me and that it is here to save us all.” —Maya Angelou
ALL-NEW VOLVO RETAIL EXPERIENCE: