Donate $50 per Stressless ® seat and save $ 400 on Stressless ® Mayfair recliners and ottomans in all Paloma leather colors. Or, enjoy $ 200 off Stressless ® Max and Mike power recliners; $ 200 off per Stressless ® sofa seat purchased; $ 200 off any Stressless ® recliner, Classic Power ™, or Stressless ® Of ce chair*; or 10% off the new Stressless ® Sky mattress.
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The Ambienti collection of decorative sculptures is a whimsical interpretation of both human and animal forms. Accented in bright colors, these unique pieces are sure to bring life to any environment. Creativity born in Italy, each piece is hand painted, so no two are exactly alike. Several styles and sizes are available and selection varies by location.
Featured items are representative of our accessories collection. Selection varies and some items may not be available at all lo cations.
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FEATURE RESTARTING FROM SCRATCH BY REGINE MALIBIRAN
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FEATURE WOMEN OF TEXAS WINE BY STACEY INGRAM KALEH
MICHELLE BERMEA
Media Sales Director
JORDAN FARRIS
Media Sales Executive
BBY SCHWARTE
Media Sales Executive
This month, we asked our contributors: What is a resolution you’re making for 2025?
Lucciana Choueiry, Lola Claire, Hope Monte, Amberlyn
Ruvani de Silva; Seema Desai DDS, DS ACC; é Jovan Taylor, MSC., PhDC; Stacey Ingram Kaleh; Emily Maldonado; Regine Malibiran; Hope Monte; Alex Winkelman
Adobe Express, Jessica Attie, Austin Food and Wine Festival, Empress Bey, Caroline Bradley, Dave Capote, Richard Casteel, Curtis Clogston, Joi Conti, Taylor Elliott, Collin Findlay, Caleigh Hill Chillanin Styling, Jody Horton, Hot Luck Festival, Stacy Lorraine, Meg Nanna, Graham Noorwood, Felicia Reed Photography, Heath Speakman, Texas Farmers’ Market at Mueller, Mars Tello, Spacecrafting Photography, Still Austin Whiskey Co., Troy Thies
Writer
• Ruvani has visited 43 U.S. states and over 50 countries
• She doesn’t drive – she never learned!
• She is related by marriage to Marilyn Monroe
“My new year’s resolution is to expand and diversify my writing portfolio by seeking out and working with as many passionate, innovative individuals as possible, particularly women and other members of marginalized groups, to make time to work on my writing passion projects, and to travel more, particularly internationally.”
Writer
• Shonté loves all things red: fashion, office supplies, lipstick, hair, etc!
• She loves to go to museums and attend anything artsy.
• She is a coffee fanatic! Oop…we mean connoisseur.
“My New Year’s 2025 resolution is to inspire and guide people toward their highest selves – encouraging kindness, compassion, and collaboration to move humanity forward. This collective shift is the most important endeavor of my life at this pivotal moment in human history.”
GRETEL PERERA Co-owner
SHURONDA ROBINSON Co-owner
ANA RUELAS Co-owner
NEHA SAMPAT Co-owner
KIP GARVEY Co-founder
SAMANTHA STEVENS Co-founder
Austin Woman is a free monthly publication of AW Media Inc. and is available at locations throughout Austin and in Lakeway, Cedar Park, Round Rock and Pflugerville. All rights reserved.
To offer feedback, email feedback@awmediainc.com. For submission information, visit atxwoman.com/jobs.
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Intern
• Writing is Lola’s favorite thing in the world –making her feel like herself and is the thing she is most passionate about.
• She has Anhidrosis, which means she can’t sweat.
• She grew up taking classical piano lessons and has played for over 15 years.
“One of my resolutions for 2025 is to compliment someone every day! Bonus points if it’s someone new every day. Everyone likes to hear nice things about themselves and sometimes I think people just need that extra drop of kindness.”
Regardless of what you honor at the end of the year, it’s hard not to notice the buzz of the community. The cooler weather seems to bring people out of their homes and into the city to seek warmth. Whether you’re gathering with friends in town for the holidays, watching light shows with a cup of hot cocoa or running around for holiday shopping, there is an undeniable cozy energy that sits in the crisp air.
Maybe it’s the warm food in our bellies that rejuvinate our energy as we approach the end of another busy year. Maybe it’s gift exchanges that remind us that colleagues, partners, friends and family think about us throughout the year. Maybe it’s the volunteering that builds community, reflection and gratitude. Whatever it is, the end of the year is, also, a wonderful time to wrap up work and any other loose ends, so we can be present when spending time with loved ones. And there is no better way to fuel that energy to finish out the year, than some delicious food. Welcome to our food and beverage issue!
Afia Foods Co-Owner, Farrah Moussallati Sibai graces our cover to share her powerful story about overcoming unforseeable challenges, all to restart from scratch. A growing group of women in wine are helping ripen the Texas terroir with Texas-grown grapes and a community of women in a male-dominated industry. July 2012 Cover Woman, Bridget Dunlap – AKA “Empress of Rainey Street” – catches us up on her expanding hospitality empire. And, of course, we share which Michelin Star restaurants are “worth a stop” across Texas. Devouring the other pages in this issue, you’ll come across the recipe behind Manuel’s newest cocktail, how toys help with child anxiety and inspiration to decorate your holiday home. Plus, we have gift suggestions to add (or check off) of your wishlist in our 2024 Gift Guide and advice on setting attainable new year’s resolutions.
Reader, as we close out 2024, I hope that you feel the warmth of good food, drinks and community. We, at Austin Woman, wish you a restful and wonderful holiday season. We look forward to seeing you in 2025 and can’t wait to hear about your resolutions.
HALIE RAMIREZ DIRECTOR OF CONTENT & CREATIVE SERVICES
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 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.
Pam Friedman is Managing Director and Principal of Robertson Stephens Wealth Management. She was recently recognized as 2023 Woman Financial Planner of the Year by Wealth Solutions Report. * With over 30 years of experience, as a Certified Financial Planner and Certified Divorce Financial Analyst, Pam is passionate about educating her clients to help them develop their financial plan through all of life’s transitions. Pam is on a mission for women to be more informed about their money, especially in the context of their relationships.
Develop a comprehensive wealth plan uniquely customized for your life’s journey.
www.rscapital.com
Schedule a complimentary consultation
A revitalized brunch menu in Austin!? Trudy’s recently brought back their brunch buffet, along with a few new dishes, so Director of Content & Creative Services, Halie Ramirez, and Marketing & Production Manager, Isabella Petrecca, had to stop by. With plates like Huevos Divorciados and chilaquiles, plus special drinks, like “My Breath Stank” (seen in photo) it’s hard not to have a filling Sunday Funday at Trudy’s Tex-Mex.
Connects Club member, Grace Mabie, joined friends at this year’s 50/50 Women on Boards event. Black Girls Code’s Cristina Mancini, Office Mayor’s Colleen Pate, Luxeda Holding’s Ash Zenooz and Independent Board Director Jocelyn Moore discussed the value of elevating your career to pursue a board postion. Each board member shared strategic advice on building meaningful relationships to pursue new opportunities.
Connects Club member, Shivani Kamboj, and VP of Buisness Operations, Betsy Blanks, chowed down on delicious barbecue dishes, tasty deserts and enjoyed savory drinks at Austin Angel’s charity event for youth in foster care. Austin’s finest chefs, caterers, food trucks, distillers, brewers and restaurants competed in the ultimate culinary showdown. The end of the night wrapped with a fun, energizing performance from The Spazmatics.
We were thrilled to launch our Take Off with Austin Woman program in November with an intimate retreat at Miraval Resort & Spa. Seven fabulous women came together for self-care, reflection and connection, all while focusing on personal and professional growth. One attendee summed up the experience perfectly: “ I left the retreat feeling inspired, deeply connected, and completely refreshed. This experience was everything I didn’t know I needed, and I can’t wait to join more events like this in the future! ”
We’re giving away two Zip Passess to this year’s Trail of Lights at Zilker Park. Hosted by the Trail of Lights Foundation, this annual holiday event is a family-fun adventure!
The Trail of Lights features more than 2 million lights illuminating the park, 90 holiday trees and more than 70 other holiday displays and lighted tunnels.
To win: follow @austinwoman on Instagram and look out for our Trail of Lights contest. We will announce the winner before December 10, 2024.
During Manuel’s 40th anniversary celebration, Director of Content & Creative Services, Halie Ramirez, and husband joined Founder, Greg Koury, and Co-Owner, Jennifer McNevin, to try the Manuelian Sunset. They learned the story behind Manuel’s Signature Flan recipe! Dora Fabelo, Ph.D., and Antonio Fabelo shared how they would feed Koury home cooked meals while all three were students at UT – and Koury fell in love with Dora’s flan.
Dec 1 - Jan 4: Mozart’s Festival of Lights, light show at Mozart’s Coffee Roasters.
Dec 6: AW Holiday Market shop gifts and network with your community at Contentstack from 4:30p.m. - 7:30p.m.
Dec 7: The Gift of Water Gala , Well Aware celebrates 15 years with a night of impact and connection at Hotel Van Zandt.
Dec 7: Dancing with the Stars Austin, benefiting Center for Child Protection, will have celebrity dancer, like Jose Luis and Monica Fabbio, step into the spotlight.
Dec 10 - Dec 23: Trail of Lights celebrates 60 years of the longest-running holiday tradition in Austin at Zilker Park.
Dec 12: Merry & Bright, Wavemakers’ holiday concert and market will feature musicians Erin Ivey, Lurleen Ladd and more.
Dec 31: Austin’s New Year at Auditorium Shores to countown 2025.
As her empire expands, the “Empress of Rainey Street” remains supreme.
BY DEBORAH HAMILTON-LYNNE
PHOTOS BY HEATH SPEAKMAN
STYLED BY CALEIGH HILL CHILLANN STYLING
WARDROBE BY ALICE & OIVIA
LOCATION: LUSTRE PEARL HOUSTON
Twelve years after Bridget Dunlap was the cover woman for the July issue, many things have changed but some – mostly the essence of the woman – have remained the same. And, the life force that enabled Dunlap to pioneer Rainey Street’s transformation in 2012 has grown even stronger. On her Instagram page she describes herself as, “Bold, unapologetic pioneer of Austin’s Rainey St. entertainment district. Inspired by music, writers, rebels, and my kids. Survivor.”
I met Dunlap at Lustre Pearl Houston, the latest addition to her expanding food and beverage empire, to catch up on the trials and triumphs the last 12 years have brought.
AW: Let’s start with the personal side of your story. In 2012 your son, Asher Skye was eight years old and you were engaged to be married to Chris Parker. Bring us up to date.
BD: (Laughing) I was a single mother raising my [mixed-race] son when Chris came into my life. He took us on and raised Asher as his own. Our family now includes Chris’s grown children, and we have a grandson, Rowan. Chris is just the greatest guy. We have been married for almost 13 years and he is the CFO of Dunlap ATX. He takes care of all the things that I do not like to do and am not good at. He is not jealous, and he doesn’t mind sitting in the background and doing all of the financial things that are not me. He is quite the opposite of me, and it really works.
Anyone who has had teenagers knows what a challenge it is to raise them, but after a few detours Asher has found his place and joined the Air Force. He is in training and plans to become a pilot. I am happy that he is on his way to doing what he loves to do, and I feel very free.
AW: You look great and seem to be energetic and ready to go with the new Lustre Pearl Houston, but you recently had some health issues that forced you to step back. How did you overcome those?
BD: For eighteen months I was dealing with multiple health issues. I was diagnosed with cancer. I had five different surgeries to address back problems and carpal tunnel syndrome and fought debilitating major depression. My husband was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer, and it felt like the kicks just kept coming. I was in a dark place and didn’t get out of bed for months. My business was suffering and slow to recover after the pandemic, so I really had no choice except to get back to work, even though my doctors advised me to take eight more weeks after my last back surgery. No matter how I was feeling physically or mentally, I knew I couldn’t give up. It is just who I am. I have to keep going forward. Reverse is not a word in my vocabulary.
AW: In 2012 you were the “Empress” of Rainey Street entertainment district having been the driving force in turning the rundown area into a thriving destination for people wanting to have a good time in downtown Austin. Fast forward to 2024 and Dunlap ATX now includes four locations in Austin as well as two in Portland and Denver. What drove you to expand?
BD: People always ask me the same question: “Where do you get your drive?” My family was very dysfunctional, and I left home at 16. I have always been a gambler, and I always bet on myself and learned to trust my gut. I love change and I am not intimidated by risk. If I see an opportunity, I go with it and am determined to make it work. When you are on a hot streak keep going, otherwise it is turning down
“There is always something out of your control, so be nimble.”
an opportunity and I am never going to do that. Also, I need movement. I get bored if I don’t have something new to work on. So basically, I said, “Why stop now? Let’s keep going.” Why not go to Denver? Why not go to Portland? The opportunity presented itself. I dream big and don’t say no, so here we are spending four million dollars to open Lustre Pearl in Houston –my hometown. I’ve come full circle.
AW: How have you seen the business change in the past few years and how are you meeting the challenges?
BD: It has been slow to come back after COVID. People became isolated and began to see eating out and going to a bar as a luxury. People will always want to drink and have a good time, but they are not as social as they were before. I see interaction with the phone as a deterrent to socialization. People are more comfortable being alone and view their phone as a kind of sanctuary; especially as they become more fearful of the many changes we are seeing today. All I can do is deliver – deliver a place to have fun with good service, good food and good drinks.
AW: In 2012 you said that your personal philosophy was “Dream Big and deliver on your own terms.” Sounds like that is still true and you are stronger and more determined than ever.
BD: I am asked to speak to aspiring entrepreneurs at Google, Facebook, the McCombs School of business and I see kids with book smarts that I don’t have. They all want to know the “formula” for success in my industry and I tell them that if they are looking for a formula they are in the wrong business. It’s about being gritty and working your ass off and never taking no for an answer. You have to be a gambler and not be
afraid of risk. You have to have gumption and do whatever it takes – last week I was outside painting the parking lot here at the restaurant. Be someone who ‘figures it out.’ Risk doesn’t guarantee anything, but you will never know unless you take a chance and risk losing it all.
You can think about it all day, you can talk about it all day, you can build business plans all day, do research all day but until you put something into action you do not know what is going to happen, let alone how it will turn out. There is always something that is out of your control, so be nimble. No matter what, I keep going and refuse to be scared.
If it turns to shit you can always start again. If it takes a dip, then you have a new perspective. If you are handed everything and don’t have to work for it and work hard then how can you really appreciate the ride?
AW: What’s next?
BD: Getting this beauty (Lustre Pearl Houston) up and running and profitable. She has been neglected, but I am determined to make it happen. Just watch me. There is also talk of a Netflix series and possibly a book on the horizon. Once you acquire some things and get some success under your belt why would you ever turn back? So, I never say no. I just keep going.
Now, more than ever, Bridget Dunlap is trusting herself and appreciating the ride. She continues to embrace life as a rebel –bold and unapologetic – enjoying life with all its highs and lows and never letting an opportunity pass her by.
Du nlap gives each of her bars and restaurants personalities which not only reflect her persona but also the vibe of each place. Here’s what you can expect at each Austin establishment:
Lustre Pearl Rainey: Built after construction took the original, Lustre Pearl Rainey is still the “same lovely lady just with a new kind of sparkle. Hula hoops, ping-pong tables, great drinks, friendly service and a beauty you can’t ignore.”
Lustre Pearl East: The original Lustre Pearl - 1895 house was relocated to this location. Truly the alter ego of Dunlap, it is a cozy, warm and fun adult playground. Dunlap loves it so much that she was married here.
Lustre Pearl South: The combination of three southern cousins hailing from Yazoo City, Mississippi, the vibe is laid-back, gracious and a bit out of the box. Expect southern favorites like a juke box, pool table, stage and snow cones to beat the heat all summer.
Clive: He is the romantic interest of Lustre Pearl. Inspired by Kris Kristofferson, Clive is larger than life and a true Texas gentleman.
Find other Dunlap ATX locations in Denver, Portland and Houston.
BY SEEMA DESAI DDS, DS ACC
As January approaches, many of us start thinking about New Year’s resolutions. We evaluate our dress size, relationships, home cleanliness and finances as measures of our success and, by extension, our self-worth.
We make resolutions, believing this will be the year we achieve our goals. And by February, about 90% of us find that our new year enthusiasm has faded, and we have fallen back into old habits.
As a certified professional coach who specializes in performance and well-being, there is a wealth of resources that I draw from to create transformational success for myself and my clients.
I have five tips to share that can help you pick the right new year’s resolutions and how to go about achieving them. These mindset shifts and practices are present in my every day, and can help you make meaningful, sustainable shifts in how you live life, all while enjoying it to the fullest and turning down the stress that often comes with building new habits.
Align your goals with your personal values.
Understanding your core values and aligning your goals with them is vital. We may have many values, but not all of them will hold equal priority. Recognizing your core values can make your pursuits feel authentic and achievable.
For example, I once coached a physician mom who cherished her family but often overcommitted at work, limiting her time at home. By exploring her values and how they influenced her aspirations, she learned to set empowering boundaries and, ultimately, created the work-life integration she once thought was a distant dream.
Consider how your goals benefit others as motivation. You’re more likely to achieve a goal if it’s tied to a larger purpose. For instance, my client from the previous example realized that changing her approach to work not only benefited her, but also allowed her to spend more time with her kids, which improved her focus professionally. Everyone won – her patients, co-workers, family and my client herself - because she showed up as the best version of herself in every setting with ease and authenticity.
Pick the right types of goals.
There are two types of goals. Means goals are specific but not always aimed at the root of what we really want. End goals, however, honor how we want to feel and what we want to experience. An example would be saying, “I want to be the healthiest version of myself” instead of “I want to lose 10 pounds.” Essentially, you’re getting clear on the identity shift you’re looking to create, not a hard and fast outcome. This perspective will lead to better results and help you avoid the cycle of obsessing over weight and food. This is because the emphasis goes away from the number on the scale that bounces around with hormonal and sleep fluctuations, shifting to the sensations and emotions of simply feeling better.
Use a vision board.
I used to dismiss vision boards as fluff, but it turns out there’s real science behind their effectiveness. Place your board where you’ll see it daily; our brains respond strongly to visuals. The Reticular Activating System kicks into play when it notices the visuals in front of us to help focus on our goals, making it easier to spot opportunities and remain motivated.
Find support from those who believe in your dreams. Building in community, connection and accountability is key to creating and sustaining meaningful success. Friends, family, mentors, therapists and coaches can each provide valuable encouragement and resources in unique ways. Choose your support wisely based on your needs. Therapy is geared towards helping people resolve past trauma and navigate mental health conditions, behavioral conditions and substance abuse disorders so they can be more present in their lives. Coaching is designed to help take people from where they are and propel them forward to new heights. It is based on the idea that the client is the expert in their own life. Mentorship serves a similar function but is very different in that it is based on the idea that the mentor is the expert, not the mentee.
The leveled-up version of you won’t always be something your current circle understands, and it’s more than ok to build out your circle to be more inclusive of people who share the ideals and values you’re looking to highlight in your life. Don’t let anyone else’s limited imagination or perception of who you are restrict your aspirations or how you take action toward achieving them.
Seema Desai is a dentist turned certified professional coach. She is the author of Connected: Discovering Your Inner Guides and co-host of the multiple award-winning podcast, Happy & Human drseemadesai.com
@seema-desai-dds
BY JENNY HOFF
Ah, the life of a foodie – sampling the most delicious culinary creations, exploring new flavors and savoring every bite. However, being a food enthusiast doesn’t have to break the bank. With some savvy strategies and a dash of creativity, you can indulge in gastronomic delights without going over budget. Here are eight practical tips for being a foodie on a shoestring budget.
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one country per event and assign which part of the meal each person should bring, or let each guest choose a country to represent with a dish to share. It can be a fantastic way to explore global cuisines without a hefty restaurant bill.
4. Organize a wine and cheese picnic. Become a wine and cheese connoisseur through a wine and cheese picnic with friends. Ask each person to bring a fabulous wine and cheese pairing, so everyone can sample each other’s pairings at the picnic. Amp up the quality by making it a friendly competition. Best pairing wins the title of foodie of the night! It’s a delightful way to discover new pairings and enjoy a leisurely afternoon in one of Austin’s beautiful parks.
5. Keep your eye on deal hunting apps. Embrace technology by using deal-hunting apps like Groupon and Yelp to find discounts and special offers at local eateries. These apps can help you discover hidden gems in Austin while keeping your budget in check.
1. Chat and shop at the farmer’s market. Farmers markets are treasure troves for fresh, local and often cheaper produce. Visit the Texas Farmers’ Market at Mueller on Sunday mornings to get your hands on artisanal bread, organic veggies and gourmet cheeses. Many vendors will offer samples and if you spend a few minutes talking to them, you can get incredible insight into what affects the taste of certain foods, what they pair well with and best time of year to enjoy them. Take home some local ingredients and try them out in a fabulous home-cooked meal.
2. Capitalize on lunch/happy hour/special timing deals. Many restaurants offer lunch specials that are significantly cheaper than their dinner counterparts. Enjoy upscale dining at a fraction of the cost by opting for lunch, happy hour or other off-peak times instead. For example, Uchi is known for its fabulous happy hour specials. Or, if you’re craving a tasting menu experience, head to Barley and Swine when it opens on Sunday at 4:30 p.m. and enjoy $30 off the tasting menu if you order in the first thirty minutes.
3. Host an international food night. You can have a worldly dinner party without spending hundreds of dollars on food to serve. Create a fun event by hosting a party at your house and asking friends to bring a dish from a specific country for everyone to enjoy. You can do
6. Cook like a pro. Sometimes the best dining experiences happen in your own kitchen. Take a cooking class to learn how to recreate your favorite restaurant dishes at home. Central Market offers cooking classes that teach you how to prepare everything from gourmet pasta to sushi. Plus, cooking at home can be a fun activity with friends and family.
7. Check out free sommelier classes. Take advantage of free online sommelier classes to learn the art of wine tasting and food pairings. Websites like Coursera and YouTube offer courses and tutorials that can elevate your culinary knowledge and impress at your next dinner party.
8. Keep a calendar for Austin’s food festivals. Austin’s food festivals are perfect opportunities to taste a variety of dishes without spending a fortune. Events like the Austin Food & Wine Festival or Hot Luck offer samples from top chefs and pitmasters, allowing you to try multiple dishes for the price of one ticket. There are also cheaper or free festivals where you can try new food like Texas VegFest.
Being a foodie doesn’t require a lavish budget – just a little planning, resourcefulness and a love for great food. By taking advantage of these budget-friendly strategies, you can savor the culinary wonders of Austin without busting the budget.
Must give gifts for the important ones in your
Experience light, color, and scent with Austin-based Veta Nell. At Veta Nell, we custom design our luxury candles with unique and complex scents and house our candles in Veta Nell’s signature square vases. To elevate every moment, every room, and every home, we blend the finest essential oils and buttery soft coconut wax. Each Veta Nell candle is hand made with domestically sourced and ecologically friendly ingredients. Our shimmering glassware in vivid hues is designed for your re-use, as lasting objets de art. Please contact us with your gift list or visit us online.
Price: $62 for 8 oz, $84 for 16 oz; use code HOLIDAYS15 for 15% off
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Refine Aeshetics Services
Give the gift of relaxation and rejuvenation this holiday season with a gift card from Refine Aesthetics. Refine’s medical professionals are experts in elevating natural beauty with personalized, science-driven care. With everything from facials and skincare to skin tightening and injectables, this gift ensures your loved one feels nurtured and cared for! All new patients will receive a $50 credit towards any treatment of their choice with this ad.
Price: $50-$2000
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Eco-Luxe Palo Santo Sticks with Guided Meditation
Give the gift of sacred energy this holiday season with Maison Palo Santo. This Austin-based brand offers ecoluxe, hand-crafted products including sustainably sourced Palo Santo, candles, rollers, essential oils, and luxury fragrances designed to uplift and cleanse. Each order includes a guided meditation, making it the perfect selfcare gift for creating calm, grounding spaces during the holiday hustle. Thoughtfully packaged and ethically produced, these gifts inspire wellbeing, creativity, and a deeper connection to self and Earth.
Price: $16-$97
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Earlybird gummies are the perfect way to take the edge off this holiday season. Earlybird is Austin-based and makes hemp derived gummies and tinctures with a microdose of THC. They’re a great gift for colleagues, friends, parents and grandparents and guaranteed to put a smile on your face. Share the joy this season and shop holiday sales online at EarlybirdCBD.com.
Price: $12.99-$59.99
EarlybirdCBD.com
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Holiday Style & Gifts that Spark Joy
Discover the magic of the season at Blue Gardenia Boutique! From festive holiday apparel to stunning jewelry and thoughtful gifts, we offer a curated mix of luxury brands and unique locally-made treasures. Shop favorites like Katie Kime, Z Supply, Liverpool, Dear John, LAFCO, and Katie Loxton. Whether you're finding the perfect holiday outfit or a gift that delights, our friendly stylists are here to help make your shopping experience unforgettable.
Price: $8-$50
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Limited Edition Cheer Candle
Bring festive joy into your home with our Limited Edition Cheer Candle! This warm, uplifting blend of cinnamon, cypress, and peppermint essential oils is the perfect companion for cozy nights and holiday gatherings. Hand-poured with natural ingredients, it’s designed to fill any room with a comforting glow and the spirit of the season.
Price: $39
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@slownorth
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Michelin-Starred restaurants in Texas designated ‘worth a stop’ by the culinary bible.
BY RUVANI DE SILVA
For foodies and restaurateurs across the Lone Star State, July’s announcement that hallowed arbiters of culinary excellence Michelin would be making their first inspection of our cuisine was greeted with excitement and trepidation. The Michelin Guide is over 100-year-old, and its nowfamous star-rating system denotes excellence determined by anonymous inspectors who grade establishments over a series of visits. Their assessments are based on five essential criteria outlined on their website: “The quality of the ingredients, the harmony of flavors, the mastery of techniques, the personality of the chef as expressed through their cuisine and consistency both across the entire menu and over time.”
Michelin’s three-tier star system was originally designed to alert French drivers to must-visit restaurants, hence their phrasing of three-star establishments as ‘worth a special journey’, two-star as ‘worth a detour’ and one-star as ‘worth a stop’. The roadtrip analogy might seem light-hearted but any recognition by Michelin is a mark of outstanding quality and success of immense value to chefs, most recently highlighted in FX’s The Bear Texas came away from its inaugural inspection with an impressive 15 one-star restaurants. Austin claims seven accolades and two Michelin Green stars, which are presented for outstanding sustainable sourcing. Winning Michelin-Starred restaurants around the state, Texas now owns most of the American Barbecue category.
One MICHELIN Star
Barley Swine (Contemporary Southern)
Part of Austin’s Odd Duck fine dining empire, Barley Swine was an early nose-to-tail adopter when it opened in 2010. Chef and owner Bryce Gilmore’s emphasis on sustainability, seasonality and local sourcing paired with
delicacy and invention in a modern-rustic setting brought Barley Swine praise from the Michelin judges. The Muscovy duck breast was highly recommended.
Craft Omakase (Japanese)
Chefs Charlie Wang and Nguyen Nguyen’s 22-course tasting menu might be beyond the reach of many Austinites at $175 per person without drinks but Michelin judges were impressed with their complex and agile menu, served to just 12 guests per sitting. Aguachile of pink shrimp with sweet potato, crudo of hamachi with yuzu-honey sauce and sea scallop dressed with ponzu and lemon zest were among the judges’ recommended dishes at one of just two Texan sushi restaurants to receive a star, a significant achievement for a restaurant less than a year old.
Hestia (New American)
A 20-foot hearth in the open kitchen is the centerpiece of Hestia’s live-fire experience, where everything from oyster mushrooms to Texas wagyu steak is prepared on the grill. Choose from a la carte or set tasting menus. Beverage advisors are on hand to direct you towards the perfect drinks pairing. Michelin judges highlighted the seared scallop topped with green tomato kosho with a tableside pour of beef tallow sauce atop the mushroom gelée base.
InterStellar BBQ (American Barbecue)
InterStellar has made its mark on Austin since opening its doors back in 2019. Chef and pitmaster John Bates's monicker of ‘low and slow’ paired with his experimental menu eschewing the three meat plate for a more sophisticated fare has already earned him props on Texas Monthly’s prestigious best barbecue list. Michelin judges especially enjoyed the salt-pepper-garlic brisket, peach tea-glazed pork belly and beer-brined tipsy turkey as well as the extensive range of creative sides.
la Barbecue (American Barbecue)
Hot on the heels of visits from Dua Lipa and Prince Harry with Meghan Markle, Michelin has endorsed Austin’s buzziest celeb barbecue hotspot with flying colors. The brainchild of the late LeAnne Mueller and her wife, Ali Clem, la Barbecue is Austin’s first all-female and lesbian-owned barbecue restaurant. Mueller brought her expertise from her family business, Louis Mueller Barbecue to cook pit barbecue to perfection. Michelin judges highlighted the flavorful brisket, house-made sausages and spicy sides.
Leroy and Lewis Barbecue
(American Barbecue)
Leroy and Lewis’s motto of ‘new school barbecue, old school service’ has led them to push the barbecue boat out with a diverse, creative menu celebrating meat in all its forms while promoting sustainable local sourcing across the board. Recently opening their first brick-and-mortar location has offered the opportunity to expand their eclectic menu further, with Michelin judges recommending their popular beef cheeks, rotating daily sausage and banana pudding tiramisu.
Olamaie (New American)
Another winner with a local-sourcing focus, Olamaie’s high-end farm-to-table cuisine professes to offer a modern interpretation of the South, weaving in African, European and Asian influences with classic Southern dishes. The recipient of multiple local awards, Olamaie strives for a balance between tradition and diversity. Michelin judges praised the chicken pressé, blackened dayboat fish, gumbo, and red rice with Gulf shrimp.
Dai Due (American)
Dai Due is known for its inventive wild game dishes and local sourcing, but their thorough program of environmental initiatives including ethical harvesting of meat, food
reuse and in-house fermentation snagged them their Green Star.
Emmer & Rye (American)
Emmer and Rye’s whole-animal on-site butchery using meat from their partner farm has helped pave the way for farmto-table dining in Austin, and Michelin recognized this along with their use of local Texas ingredients, homemade preserves and vinegars and composting program.
One MICHELIN Star
Tatsu Dallas (Japanese)
Dallas’ only star winner offers an intimate experience with just 10 counter seats in the renovated Continental Gin Building. Food is served omakase style with 14-15 pieces in the Edomae tradition with flavors intensifying through the meal. For $170, guests are served personally by chef Tatsuya Sekiguchi, with Michelin judges noting highlights including Alaskan sockeye salmon, Spanish tuna, uni from Hokkaido and end with eel from Maine. Reservations are already hard to book, so imagine what this Michelin star will do for Tatsu Dallas.
One MICHELIN Star
BCN Taste & Tradition (Spanish)
BCN’s upscale tapas caught the eye of Michelin judges for its elegant, authentic tapas modeled on Barcelona’s dynamic food scene. Located in a picturesque 1920s white stucco bungalow, expect outstanding seafood dishes such as cucumber set on lobster rice and thinly sliced octopus paired with potato purée and smoked paprika as well as authentic meats including Iberian suckling pig.
CorkScrew BBQ (American Barbecue)
CorkScew has long been on the radar of serious barbecue fans who are more than willing to travel out to Spring, just north of Houston, for a taste of their locally sourced red-oak-smoked meats. Owners Will and Nichole Buckman have made Texas Monthly’s best barbecue list multiple times since opening in 2010. Michelin judges praised CorkScrew’s meat across the board, lauding their brisket and beef ribs as some of the finest in the state.
Le Jardinier Houston (French)
Le Jardiner’s culinary director Alain Verzeroli is already a Michelin alumnus for his sister location in Manhattan, so it’s unlikely Houstononians are surprised by the restaurant’s win. Situated in Houston’s chic Museum of Fine Arts, Le Jardanier’s rotating seasonal French-themed menus have
cemented their appeal with art-lovers and foodies alike. Judges enjoyed dishes including thin strands of zucchini spaghetti with yellow pepper coulis and Comté foam, Maine diver scallops with carrot jus reduction and sugar snap peas.
March (Creative/Mediterranean)
March’s refined seasonal Mediterraneanfusion fine dining menu curated by chef Felipe Riccio and sommelier June Rodil segues around southern European cuisines with a panache that appealed to Michelin’s judges. These judges recommend indulging in a six or nine-course tasting menu for a fully immersive experience. Expect to find sophisticated dishes like halibut, purple carrot, blueberry and beurre rouge and king crab, mussels, red pepper and fennel – all beautifully presented.
Musaafer (Indian)
Part of Dubai-based restaurant group Spice Route Co, the concept behind Musaafer is a 100-day trip taken around India by the restaurant’s culinary team to bring together regional cuisines from across the country. Already listed in TIME magazine’s World’s Greatest Places for 2021, Musaafer offers carefully detailed elevated takes on traditional dishes, as well as fusion dishes and a complex complementary cocktail menu –all served in an opulent neo-colonial space. Michelin judges recommend the 24-spice onion xuixo served with tamarind and mint chutney, prawns in coriander, coconut milk, and curry leaves and 72-hour-cooked dal.
Tatemó (Mexican)
Tatemó’s chef Emmanuel Chavez already has a host of prestigious accolades under his belt including two James Beard nominations, Food & Wine’s best new chef 2023 and Esquire’s best restaurants of 2022. Focusing on heirloom nixtamalized corn, Chavez offers a menu curated to celebrate its cultural value. Judges praised his ceviche, quesadillas, and gorditas as well as his salsas, sauces and mole.
One MICHELIN Star
Mixtli (Mexican cuisine)
Mixtli means ‘cloud’ in the ancient Aztec language of Nahuatl. Chefs Diego Galicia and Rico Torres’ rotating menu celebrates historic and regional Mexican cuisine, exploring the country and its history one area at a time. The judges were particularly impressed by Mixtli’s regional diversity and their interpretations of Oaxacan specialties and the cuisine of ‘Tierra Caliente.
Scan here for the MICHELIN Bib Gourmand restaurants in Texas.
With all the excitement surrounding the Texas Michelin Star announcements, little attention has been paid to the fact that, as of 2022, just 6% of all Michelin-starred restaurants were led by women. And just a handful of the women in this percentage are women of color. While it's clear that this is a problem, it highlights the enormous achievement Texas women won; including la Barbecue’s Ali Clem in Austin, Mixtli San Antonio’s Hailey Pruitt and Lauren Beckman.
Two women who have broken the glass ceiling, excelling in their respective fields and taking key roles in putting Austin and Texas on the Michelin Guide map are LeRoy and Lewis Owner and Co-Founder, Sawyer Lewis, and Olamaie Chef de Cuisine, Amanda Turner. Both have had long and distinguished careers in hospitality, bringing their talents to some of Austin’s best-known restaurants, and have now achieved this career-defining accolade.
“I want to continue to push the needle on what people see as worthy.
With an extensive background at top Austin restaurants, Turner brought her wealth of experience to Olamaie in 2021. Turner used her expertise to craft a thoughtful and imaginative menu of upscale Southern cuisine that has won multiple honors; including James Beard semifinalist for Emerging Chef in 2022 and Tastemaker Chef of the Year for 2023. Under Turner’s leadership, Olamaie is now the first recipient of a Michelin star in Southern Cuisine.
“I think it’s incredibly validating – the hospitality industry is very difficult, so whenever you have these moments of very high recognition it makes you feel like you’re on the right track,” she says.
The win is particularly important to Turner as a woman of color championing the food of the African diaspora.
“Cooking food that has been looked down on as ‘poor people’s food’ is important to me and a big part of why I joined Olamaie in the first place,” she says.
Using her skills to reimagine foods that aren’t traditionally considered fine dining, such as catfish, is key for Turner’s work as a chef.
“I want to continue to push the needle on what people see as worthy, and I’m very proud of what I have accomplished,” she says.
Turner shares that she hopes Olamaie’s success will help open doors for others in this space. She emphasizes the huge role played by the collaborative team she has built and Olamaie's progressive attitude to employee wellness.
While being part of the tiny group of women of color to achieve a Michelin star is “disappointing, on a larger scale [that] there aren’t more of us," she considers this an important win for representation.
“I don’t have many people to look up to in this space, but hopefully my visibility and exposure will make new generations think ‘that could be me and fine dining is not so exclusive.’”
Put yourself out there – take up space. “
Sawyer Lewis Owner & Co-Founder, Lewroy and Lewis Lewis channeled her fine dining experience from venues around Texas to start her own business in 2017 with Pitmaster and Co-Founder, Evan LeRoy. The duo opened LeRoy and Lewis as a mobile food truck, finding a home at south Austin’s Cosmic Coffee and Beer Garden. Their exploratory approach to barbecue in using unusual cuts, such as pulled lamb, and a focus on local and sustainable sourcing quickly earned them a dedicated following and recognition on lists, including The 20 Best Texas Barbecue Restaurants of a New Generation in 2023’s New York Times.
For Lewis, the win is a victory for their values. LeRoy and Lewis are committed to presenting barbecue as a method – not a menu – and only serving ethically sourced local livestock from their partner farms.
“I think [local sourcing] is super powerful,“ says Lewis. “We are serving something grown and raised close to home which is already of very high quality.”
She also emphasizes the creativity LeRoy and Lewis put into their menu.
“We aim to be progressive – barbecue is historically very conservative so we want to offer something that feels familiar while also pushing the envelope. Barbecue is so much more than a three meat plate.”
Lewis highlights the importance of how dedicated and hardworking her 40-person team is and their crucial role in achieving the star. Lewis didn't initially see Michelin Stars as an option after moving into casual dining, so she credits her team’s work ethic in their success.
“We strive for excellence every day – to be the best we can be, the strongest team offering the best food and an atmosphere that’s approachable yet magical,” she says.
Lewis also recognizes the impact of the award as proof of what a working mother can achieve, citing a work-life balance in raising her two-year-old while managing the company as one of the biggest challenges and rewards of her role. Determination, a willingness to learn and collaborate and thick skin are Lewis’s key pieces of advice to other women entering the industry.
“Put yourself out there – take up space,” she says. “Being an entrepreneur is wonderful because no one is limiting you –never stop learning and never stop trying to get better every day. Sometimes [as a woman] it feels like you have to work twice as hard for recognition but it can happen, and I’m very grateful.”
Our pages are full of stories of Austin’s most engaging, empowering and successful women. This section is specially designed to provide you access to even more incredible role models and success stories. Be part of this amazing group and share your story with thousands of women. Contact us at sales@awmediainc.com or call 512.328.2421 for more information.
M organ Veilleux is the co-founder of Zorgi Media, an Austin-based brand photography and video production company. Together with her partner Zane, they form the ideal creative duo for businesses seeking vibrant and authentic visuals. Morgan finds constant inspiration in the passionate spirit and supportive nature of the Austin business community. Her talent for blending authenticity and artistry makes Zorgi Media one of Austin’s most refreshingly innovative creative teams, with visuals that are as striking as they are meaningful. Morgan also has a dense background in film, with a B.A. in Cinema Production, and years of on-set production experience in movies like Drive Away Dolls, A Man Called Otto and more. She strives to bring encouragement and optimism to her work, friendships and the local community. Above all, she loves connecting with new clients to explore creative possibilities over a good cup of coffee. zorgimedia.com
LIVED X LEIGH | OWNER
With 10+ years of event and marketing experience, Shelby Leigh Priester has always taken great joy in seeing the beauty of someone's vision. From designing table scapes to creating floral arrangements and decorating your event space, Priester is ready to bring your party to life! Priester's goal with Lived X Leigh is to curate stunning events that can be remembered for the years to come. From intimate dinner parties to birthday celebrations, open houses to client appreciation events. Lived X Leigh is here to tie the bow around life's special moments. LivedXLeigh.com
SELIGSON, R.T.(R)(M)(ARRT) AND JAIME EVANS, R.T.(R)(M)(ARRT) UT HEALTH AUSTIN | MAMMOGRAPHY TECHNOLOGISTS
Tracy Seligson, R.T.(R)(M)(ARRT) and Jaime Evans, R.T.(R)(M)(ARRT), are mammography technologists in UT Health Austin’s Imaging Center. They specialize in breast imaging. Both Seligson and Evans seamlessly blend their professional expertise with personal empathy. Seligson, a breast cancer survivor, has a profound understanding of the crucial role early detection plays in increasing survival rates. Her personal experience fuels her unwavering commitment to offering compassionate care and support. Evans, motivated by the loss of her mother to breast cancer, is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of proactive screening. She honors her mother’s legacy by advocating for patients and their well-being. Together, Seligson and Evans foster a nurturing and supportive environment for their patients. “Our personal journeys inspire us to treat every patient with the same empathy and respect we would want for our own families.” uthealthaustin.org
Seventeen inspiring women share their transformative stories in Sulit Press' new book.
What if the toughest moments you've faced, turn out being the ones that come to define your life's purpose? Pieces to Purpose shares real-life stories of strength and transformation from 17 women from varied walks of life. These chapters, written by women who have faced some of life's most formidable challenges, promise to evoke empathy, compassion and courage.
Each chapter of Pieces to Purpose tells a deeply personal story of hardship, resilience and the path to discovering a profound sense of purpose. From surviving domestic abuse, to recovering from addiction, to caring for children with chronic illnesses, these narratives hold nothing back. Through this book, readers are invited to witness the raw vulnerability of each author, who, through her trials, emerges with new wisdom and a life transformed. The stories are powerful, often heartbreaking, yet ultimately uplifting – providing hope and a path forward for readers facing their own struggles.
All proceeds from Pieces to Purpose book sales will be donated to Central Texas Table of Grace, a non-profit supporting foster children and teens transitioning out of the system.
Q&A with Pieces to Purpose Publisher, Sulit Press'
Michelle Savage
Why multi-author books?
Multi-author books are such a beautiful way for women to share their stories and experience all the rewards of being published – without the pressure or time commitment of writing an entire book on their own. By contributing a single chapter, they step into a supportive, collaborative process that feels exciting and achievable. We’ve seen our authors get featured in national publications, receive invitations to speak on stages and podcasts and to participate in book tours and book signings at major universities –all because they write a single chapter. What I love most is how this experience creates a genuine connection and community. Women come together, lift each other up and build true friendships. It’s not just about writing – it’s about being seen, celebrated, and supported every step of the way.
What have you learned about getting people to share their stories? While we spend several weeks teaching the elements of good writing and storytelling, a large part of our chapter coaching process is about creating a safe space where the authors can be vulnerable.
Many women worry that their story isn’t worthy of telling or that no one else will care what they have to say, but I want every woman to know that her story is inherently valuable and even if she is writing about a common experience, no one has lived it or observed it in the same way she has.
Writing is often healing for the author. Publishing is a powerful way to inspire, educate, connect and create empathy in a world where we benefit from seeing the world through someone else’s perspective.
“I almost pulled out of the book writing at the last minute. The story was so painful to produce it actually manifested as physical illness. I prayed God would give me the words or “take this cup from me.” What kept me committed was the fact that this was not MY story but God used me and my life to further HIS story and it had to be told; to glorify Him. ”
“Writing my chapter was a deeply healing journey, offering another layer of restoration from the trauma of my past. It allowed me to focus on the invaluable lessons and strength I have gained from my most painful experiences. As I relived those events while putting them on paper, it brought to light the power that we all have inside of us when we choose to use the things that shatter us as a tool to inspire and give hope to others. My desire is that these stories encourage readers to see that their struggles can forge their strength and their brokenness can lead to a profoundly purposeful life.”
“Writing this chapter felt like a triumph—a reclaiming of my voice after years of being silenced by pain. What once left me barely able to function has now become a story of resilience and strength. I wrote this for myself, and for every woman who has endured the unbearable. I am the voice for those who are not yet able to speak, proving that from disempowerment, we can rise into our power.”
“Penning my chapter for Pieces to Purpose was like weaving strength into words. I had never before looked at all of the sequential events in my life and how they affected me. Each paragraph became a testament to the unbreakable spirit and my refusal to let adversity define me. It was such a cathartic experience, one that allowed me to finally say to myself, 'you did good, kid.”
“I’ve been around writers for most of my career and I’ve always had such respect for them and the beautiful ways they can tell stories and make you feel like you are part of that story. I have never counted myself as one of those storytellers and that made it even more intimidating to put my story down on paper for a chapter in a book where I am now called an “author.” What I realized through the process, however, is that all of our stories matter, even if we are not Virginia Woolf.”
Sulit Press is an Austin-based, woman-owned boutique publishing house founded by Michelle Savage, focused on creating powerful nonfiction books that make a lasting impact. Each year, Sulit Press runs a unique multi-author book program, empowering women to share their stories in a supportive community. Over the course of eight weeks, authors receive personalized coaching and guidance to craft and refine their chapters, building a book with collective power and reach. Scan here to buy the book. sulitpress.com
@sulitpressbooks
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Dr. Holly Noel Brocato, D.C. is a distinguished family chiropractor and owner of Brocato Wellness Center in Taylor, Texas. She holds a Doctorate in Chiropractic from Texas Chiropractic College as well as two Bachelor of Science degrees in Human Biology and Fitness and Human Performance. Brocato specializes in perinatal and pediatric care. She is also trained in acupuncture and is pursuing a certification from the Academy Council of Chiropractic Pediatrics. As a keynote speaker, she advocates for holistic wellness through chiropractic, nutrition and acupuncture principles. Dr. Brocato serves as a member of the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA), Taylor Chamber of Commerce, Taylor Area Business Women and First Baptist Church - Holland, Texas.
BrocatoWellness.com
TALLEY NEXT STEP CONNECT | PROFESSIONAL, BLOGGER, FIRE WIFE
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Sarah Talley is an academic advising coordinator with 15 years of experience working with college students. Last year, she founded Next Step Connect, a blog highlighting ways readers can create more authentic connections with themselves, families and community. She has been a firewife of the Round Rock Fire Department for over 20 years and recently began transitioning her expertise to help firewives develop tools to navigate the unique challenges of supporting a first responder. Talley has master’s degrees in teaching and college student development. She is a certified NLP practitioner and trained Gottman Leader. Combining her professional background and personal insights, she offers guidance and support tailored to the firewife lifestyle. Her work outside of her profession in higher education and raising two girls often involves supporting her husband's department by working with various programs, including an annual spouse conference. TheNextStepConnects.com
BETSY R. DAVIS
THE SAUCY REDHEAD | CHEF/OWNER/HOSPITALITY CONSULTANT
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S
outhern through and through, Betsy Davis began studying the art of hospitality at her mother’s knee. She has been a private chef and bodacious baker for more than 25 years, and still, nothing is as gratifying for her as seeing someone's eyes light up or hearing their almost inaudible moan when tasting her food. Classically trained, there is a touch of comfort in everything she creates; from baked goods and special occasion cakes to cocktail and dinner parties. Davis sees gathering people over a wonderful meal as the best method for creating unity – it’s difficult to be angry with a delicious bite in your mouth; which can create a place for agreement in contentious times. Currently, (in addition to her many other services) she is joining forces with Austin’s own chanteuse, Wavemakers Founder, Lurleen Ladd, to offer one-of-a-kind evenings of delicious food and music in your home. SaucyRedhead.com
ATTORNEY, ACTIVIST, AUTHOR
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ecognized as a 2024 Texas Rising Star in appellate law, Samantha McCoy is an attorney, public speaker, activist and licensed mental health therapist. Above all, her greatest honor has been raising her beautiful daughter alongside her fiercely supportive husband. Following a sexually violent crime, McCoy dedicated her career to ensuring all gaps within the judicial system are finally closed and all survivors of sexual violence are treated in a dignified and trauma-informed manner. McCoy has successfully lobbied for and passed five laws in four states and one United Nations Resolution – all of which strengthened the rights and protections for survivors. McCoy received her Master’s in Social Work and a Certificate of Advanced Study in Trauma-Informed Practice from Syracuse University. She then obtained her Doctor of Jurisprudence from St. Mary’s University School of Law. She continues her lobbying efforts in the hope of a more just system for future generations.
instagram.com/samantha_lyn27
CENTER FOR HEALING AND REGENERATIVE MEDICINE AND LADIES
LIFESTYLE NETWORK ATX | DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT / COMMUNITY DIRECTOR
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arrie Kass is a multifaceted leader in healthcare and women's empowerment. As Director of Operations and Business Development at CHARM, she has transformed the clinic into a national leader in regenerative medicine since 2011. Her expertise spans clinical and administrative roles, driving growth through innovative strategies. Kass also directs Ladies Lifestyle Network Austin, fostering female empowerment through monthly events that connect, inspire and mentor women. Her leadership has created a supportive environment for personal and professional growth. Recently, Kass became a published author in "Pieces to Purpose," sharing her journey of overcoming life's challenges. Her resilience and refusal to let her light be dimmed inspire others. Kass’ diverse roles showcase her commitment to healthcare advancement and women's empowerment, making her a dynamic force in both fields. charmaustin.com
INFINITE POTENTIAL COUNSELING INC | CLINICAL DIRECTOR
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Mary Parker is an integrative mental health professional, with 15 years of experience in the field. She owns Infinite Potential Counseling Inc, located in Round Rock and Austin/Dripping Springs. At Infinite Potential Counseling Inc, she is helping families identify genetic, diet and environmental issues that can impact mental health, and heal the whole person. Parker is also the President of TX C.U.R.E. A non profit organization working with families who are impacted by the criminal justice system. Her role is to help foster and grow relationships for children and families who feel alone when a parent or veteran in their lives is incarcerated. In her spare time, she is a homeschooling mom that enjoys hiking, kayaking, and traveling with her family.
InfinitePotentialCTX.com
ALICIA RAFFKIND | AUTHOR/PUBLIC SPEAKER/FASHIONISTA
From Amarillo, TX, Alicia Walls-Raffkind is a woman on the move. Raffkind is the CEO of all things fashion and the sober community. She is dedicated to helping anyone in the sober community look their best through “Dress for Success” events. For over 11 years, Raffkind has volunteered with The Downtown Women's Center and is currently President of the Ladies Auxiliary. She serves on the Board of Directors and co-chairperson 2016, 2023 and 2024 for the DWC luncheons. She has mentored ladies who are getting clean and sober and has helped raise over millions of dollars and counting for the shelters and women's sobriety programs. Raffkind serves on the Amarillo College Foundation Board and chairs events and fundraising. Starting in 2023 she now serves on the Community Advisory Board for the Laura Bush Foundation. She is 10 years sober and strives to help anyone on their sober journey. AliciaRaffkind.com
DIANA MALDONADO MALDONADO STRATEGIES LLC | CEO
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iana Maldonado, a respected Central Texas political figure, has built a career on achieving the “impossible” while fostering lasting relationships. As a best-selling author, she shares stories from her journey in politics, travel and running through the lens of a Latina. Her unique blend of solutions brings unmatched expertise to empowering women in politics. Her Candidate School course shares everything she wished she’d known during her own campaign journey. This ultimate resource equips professional women with the tools to become powerful, persuasive and authentic candidates. From mastering your candidate identity to managing money, policy and power strategically and ethically, this program helps you navigate the political arena with confidence. Maldonado’s sharp insight and collaborative approach inspires innovative solutions that drive big visions forward. By completing Candidate School, students gain the skills, strategy, and clarity to run a successful, purpose-driven campaign – and win. MaldonadoStrategies.com
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Theresa Pore is a dynamic speaker, trainer and coach with 22 years of marriage, 16 years in finance and 12 years of owning and operating multiple businesses. Her journey from adversity to empowerment inspired the creation of UnBreakable Enterprises LLC. She hosts the UnBreakable Women’s Conference, guiding attendees through the 7 Pillars of Creating an UnBreakable Life™. UnBreakable Enterprises, LLC fosters personal growth that transcends all aspects of life. Pore's personal motto is “Helping you live your life’s purpose by living your life on purpose.” Join Pore on her mission to empower individuals in business, marriage and parenting through UnBreakable Business™, UnBreakable Marriage™ and UnBreakable Children™. Grab a copy of Pieces to Purpose to learn about Pore's journey of becoming unbreakable. You will be inspired to turn your life’s challenges into opportunities for growth, resilience and purpose. UnbreakableWomensConference.com
Players Reach, a nonprofit organization dedicated to community enrichment and youth empowerment, is thrilled to host its 6th Annual Toys for Joy event. Each year, this initiative spreads holiday cheer by ensuring that children in the Austin area experience the magic of the season with shopping experiences at local Austin stores.
Founded in 2019 by Peyton Thompson and MJ McFarland, together with their ever-expanding network of former athletes and professional partners, Player’s Reach aims to give back to the city they now call home. Their goal is to use their successes to help support and inspire the youth of Austin to greatness by giving back to their community. At its core, Players Reach focuses on creating meaningful opportunities that uplift youth and foster connections between local businesses, volunteers, and families.
What is toys for Joy?
This year, Players Reach is thrilled to partner with Oak Springs Elementary to sponsor 50 children, providing them with an unforgettable shopping experience at Wonder World (from Toys “R” Us) inside the Barton Creek Square Mall. By collaborating with this local school, Players Reach ensures that donations are making a
meaningful difference in the lives of children in the community, fostering strong and personal connections between donors and recipients.
“This year’s Toys for Joy event is bigger and better than ever,” said Reese Cisneros, Event & Sponsorship Director for Players Reach. “With the support of multiple retailers, we’re not just giving gifts—we’re creating an entire experience for these kids, teaching them valuable lessons in budgeting and giving them a holiday they’ll always remember.”
1. Donate Funds
Make a monetary contribution directly through the Players Reach website—every dollar counts and helps create a memorable holiday experience for local children. Whether big or small, we can work with your giving goals to make a meaningful impact this season!
2. Volunteer Your Time
Join our volunteer committee and help oversee the event! Volunteers play a vital role in greeting attendees, managing activities, and ensuring everything runs smoothly on event day.
3. Become a Sponsor
Sponsorship opportunities include covering specific items like pizza or bus transportation, or selecting packages such as “MVP” or “Team Captain,” which directly provide a set number of shopping experiences for children.
4. Spread the Word
Help us reach even more people by sharing Toys for Joy on social media, talking about it in your community, or inviting friends and family to get involved.
Since its inception, Toys for Joy has provided thousands of dollars in shopping experiences for children from local schools, creating priceless memories for Austin’s youth. This year’s event aims to beat previous records with the support of our generous donors, sponsors, and volunteers. Each shopping experience represents not just a gift, but a powerful message of love and support from the community.
For more information on Toys for Joy or to get involved, visit playersreach. com. Let’s make this holiday season brighter – one toy, one child and one act of kindness at a time. @playersreach
It's never too early or too late to get the ball rolling on holiday home decorating. Whether you’re ready to crack open the holiday decor labeled boxes from the attic, or run to your favorite home goods store, O’Hara Interior’s Senior Interior Designer, Heidi Feliz-Grimm, shares how to make the most of your space this holiday season.
Evaluate your inventory.
While holiday decorating is meant to be a fun process, starting can be a bit overwhelming. Before you start decking the halls, take a step back to take a look at what you already have and ask yourself these questions:
1. What do I have that I will definitely use?
2. What doesn’t match my aesthetic anymore that I can donate?
3. What needs to be replaced or needs to be added for this year’s decorations?
“I would say everybody's style kind of evolves, even if it's just a little bit each year. So again, that's why I think having that inventory is helpful,” Feliz-Grimm said. “How can I gear the decoration towards where I'm at this year, style wise?
Identify key rooms for decorating. Start your planning process by envisioning what parts of the house you want to focus on. When you know what rooms you will be decorating, you can list what you need to decorate each space with, accordingly. Consider these spaces in your home and specific decorations for each area:
1. Formal Dining Room – Decorative plates and silverware, create festive flower arrangements to adorn the table, add candles.
2. Kitchen/Breakfast Nook –Gingerbread houses (real or fake – your pick), jars filled with festive candies.
3. Family Living Room – Tree and ornaments, decorative throw pillows/ blankets on couches, garland for fireplace mantles (if applicable) and sculptures and/or figurines for side tables or shelves.
4. Staircases – Greenery and garland, red bows.
Find practicality with multi-seasonal decorations. Save money while decorating for the holidays by finding neutral items that can be utilized for the fall, winter and holiday seasons. Feliz-Grimm shares that she finds ways to do this through rugs, pillow shams and throw blankets. Keep the seasonal decor feeling more like year-round accessories with:
1. Pillow shams that have abstract patterns, antler designs and neutral color schemes.
2. Throw blankets that are greens/whites and plaids.
3. Rugs that are neutral green in the kitchen, living room and entryway.
Curate your holiday trees.
Dressing the tree is one of Feliz-Grimm's favorite parts of decorating for the holidays. Essential points when curating your own:
BY HOPE MONTE
1. Decide whether or not to go with multiple or a staple tree.
2. Evaluate the size of the tree(s) – scale is important.
3. Make sure the ornament sizes are proportionate to the size of your tree. If you're decorating a 12-foot tree, size up the ornaments – just because the tree is bigger doesn’t mean there needs to be more items for decorating.
4. The classics are 'classic' for a reason; like ball ornaments of red green and white.
5. Add touches of sentimental items, like the baby photo ornaments – just tastefully.
“For the most part, I have big items, like big decorative balls and big candy canes,” says Feliz-Grimm. “But if you don't have the space, say you have a six foot tree, make sure that your decor is the right size for that smaller tree. Don't try to put oversized things on that small tree,” Feliz-Grimm said.
Staying up with trends can be exhausting. Feliz-Grimm advises to stay true to your own aesthetic. And, lucky for tradition, the classic holiday look is trending this season. So, utilizing traditional red, whites and greens is in style this year.
“Don't be scared of the old school,” FelizGrimm says. “It stands the test of time for a reason. Now, can you do a little twist of your own?”
Sticking with either some or all of the classic reds, greens and whites as your base can guide how you decorate this and every holiday.
Furniture can powerfully influence the comfort, functionality and feel of your home – which is why it’s important to find a furniture store that speaks to you. A fixture of the Austin design scene since 1993, Copenhagen is a family-owned business that brings “a unique retail environment and curated selection of European contemporary furnishings to Austin,” in the words of Copenhagen President and CEO Jens Hansen. With Copenhagen’s re-located and expanded Austin showroom now open, it’s the ideal time to find a furniture store that feels like home to you.
Here are five things to look for when searching for a furniture retailer – and why Copenhagen might be your perfect fit.
Consider retailers whose style you find beautiful, calming, and inspirational – and whose products you can envision becoming part of your daily life. If you’re drawn to the sleek elegance of modern and contemporary furniture, Copenhagen may be a great match.
“Our Danish heritage gave us a steppingstone into the modern Danish look and new European style that defines us,” Jens Hansen states. “We focus on the ‘less is more’ concept, creating clean, comfortable environments that relax body and mind.”
This passion for purveying functional furnishings shows through Copenhagen’s inclusion of renowned contemporary brands in its collection. Enjoy tech-forward bedroom and office furniture by BDI, timeless and versatile dining pieces by Skovby of Denmark, or luxurious statement pieces by Cattelan Italia.
Meticulous craftsmanship and durability will ensure that you’ll enjoy your furniture for years to come. A commitment to quality drives Copenhagen to “source only the best products from around the world, at competitive prices,” according to Hansen.
Manufacturers chosen for the Copenhagen collection, like Stressless® of Norway, put care and consideration into every step of their design process. For instance, each Stressless® recliner has a base made from 32 layers of beechwood and an ergonomic frame topped with plush foam and premium leather. Indeed, it’s common for customers to get decades of good use from their Stressless® seating!
Consider which furniture stores carry a variety of products for different spaces, styles, and budgets – as well as which places keep you coming back to see what’s new. With Copenhagen’s new Austin store numbering over 30,000 sq ft, you’ll be dazzled by the range of furniture and accents offered for every room of the house. “What’s more,” adds Hansen, “our unique approach to product presentation places items in coordinated, room-like vignettes complete with art and accessories. This gives customers an idea of what the ‘total look’ could be in their home.”
Good customer service is essential to keep one coming back to a business. “Our caring, knowledgeable sales and design staff are truly interested in customers’ needs and wants,” Hansen emphasizes. “We’re not looking to just write sales tickets or upsell customers, but rather build long-term relationships with them.” Indeed, Copenhagen’s end-to-end service provides everything from interior design assistance and floorplanning help, to whiteglove delivery, furniture repair, and more.
A Future- and Community-Oriented Mindset Companies with staying power tend to continually evolve, staying relevant to the present, anticipating the future, and supporting their communities. “As our success grows, Copenhagen looks for ways to give back, most recently seen in our ‘5 for 5’ charity events for the Austin area food bank,” says Hansen. Over the past 3 years, Copenhagen’s food drives have raised $250,000 for local food banks across Texas and Arizona – including $10,000 in 2024 for the Central Texas Food Bank of Austin.
Additionally, Copenhagen has integrated Floorplanner software into its site, allowing customers to design virtual rooms and envision how products will look in their home. Pair this tech-savviness with the inclusion of sustainable brands like Stressless®, Skovby, and Luonto, and Copenhagen is on track to keep evolving with the times.
Whether you’re planning a full remodel or simply looking for the perfect piece to complete your space, consider Copenhagen. Visit the new Austin store at 4501 W. Braker Ln. or shop online at CopenhagenLiving.com. “We’d like to invite everyone to come test us out,” says Jens Hansen. “You won’t be disappointed.”
After taking a chance across the world, Farrah Moussallati Sibai proves that you can always begin again.
BY REGINE MALIBIRAN
PHOTOS BY JOI CONTI
STYLING BY EMPRESS BEY HAIR & MAKEUP BY TIFFANY WADE
“
I’m not a refugee, but I empathize a lot with the pain and struggles that they’ve gone through. Whether it’s the loss of children, the loss of everything back home, starting in a new country, new culture.
CREDITS:
Farrah was seperated from her eldest child, Lana, for 12 years due to Syrian conflict turning into war, amongst other challenges.
Even as the Co-Founder and President of Afia, a leading brand of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern food in the United States, Farrah Moussallati Sibai’s “biggest, best and favorite achievement in all [her] life” are her daughters.
15 years ago, Sibai endured the passing of her youngest daughter, the hospitalization of her middle and the separation of her eldest. Days after losing her youngest, Lu-Jaine, to a sudden illness, Sibai decided to relocate from Syria to return to the United Kingdom in pursuit of healthcare for her middle daughter, Serene. Though Serene’s kidney disorder steadily improved in the new country, Sibai lost custody of her eldest daughter, Lana, who still lived with her father in Syria as conflict descended into war.
“We’d lost absolutely everything there,” recalls Sibai. “I was back in England trying to save my middle daughter’s life. And at this moment in time, I was just on my knees. I was at rock bottom. I was in so much pain and anguish.”
Sibai not only lost a connection to her daughter but to her late father, as his last possessions were swept up in the chaos. Despite the uncontrollable, Sibai continued to pursue avenues of remaining in touch with Lana.
While in England, Sibai alternated her time between working and looking after Serene in the hospital. Eventually, Sibai’s friends introduced her to her husband, Yassin Sibai – a computer engineer in Dallas. As the father of three daughters, Yassin welcomed Sibai and Serene to his Texas home. Though the two families integrated well together, Sibai wasn’t adjusting to her new city.
“I’d never been to Texas before,” says Sibai. “So when I first came here, obviously I’m leaving a life behind, right? There was something about Dallas that just did not click. It was a very fastpaced life and that’s what I needed a break from.”
In response to Sibai’s reservations, Yassin suggested a move to Austin, promising that “Austin is very different.” Initially, Sibai had doubts about how unique two cities could be that are hardly 200 miles apart. Her husband insisted in the face of her skepticism. It took Sibai almost a year to see Texas' capital for herself.
“The moment I stepped foot off of that plane into the airport, I felt different,” Sibai shares. “The people were different. So giving, so friendly and just happy.”
Sibai wasted no time getting involved with her community in Austin. She arrived in time to experience a surge of refugees in the city – of which a significant amount were also Syrian – with whom she shared the pursuit of a new start. According to the Immigration Research Initiative, Texas leads the rest of the states in the number of refugees received. In November 2015, former City of Austin Mayor, Steve Adler, unequivocally wrote that “Syrian refugees are welcome in Austin” in the Texas Tribune. Between 2009 and 2019, the Austin AmericanStatesman reports that almost 6,000 refugees resettled in Austin specifically.
Sibai volunteered her time and translation skills to helping refugees immediately after moving to Austin. She remembers a local friend taking interest in helping out and posting on social media to request donations for furniture and home necessities,
which led to a truck full of items that furnished homes for refugee families. Sibai fell in love with her new city and it loved her back.
“I’m not a refugee, but I empathize a lot with the pain and struggles that they’ve gone through. Whether it’s the loss of children, the loss of everything back home, starting in a new country, new culture,” says Sibai. “So I spent my time volunteering to help these refugees – and that’s all I could do, just volunteer my time. But I always wished and wanted to be able to do more.”
A year after relocating their blended family to Austin, Yassin’s parents chose to flee Syria before the borders closed. They had not weeks, but hours, to gather all that they would be able to bring with them to the U.S. Yassin’s mother, Fadia, made sure they did not leave without their family’s heirloom recipe book, humbly handwritten in Arabic.
“Just like the refugees that I was helping, she also struggled,” Sibai says. “She really missed her life. She missed her family and she missed home. It was her recipe book that would give her comfort. She would take it out and she would cook us the most amazing and authentic meals.”
In 2016, that little black recipe book, along with “moments of pain, moments of purpose and a white space in the market” came together as the fertile ground that sprouted the idea for Afia. Her mother-in-law’s home cooking made Sibai curious about her local grocery store’s frozen Mediterranean and Middle Eastern food options. When she found nothing, “everything came together to create this perfect puzzle.”
Sibai and her family had the recipes and the idea. They just needed a name. Together, they chose the word “afia,” which is an Arabic toast meaning “to your health.” Considering Sibai’s journey with her daughters’ health, the name symbolizes an intent as well as a blessing. Guided by Fadia’s high standards and authentic palate, Sibai and Yassin chose falafel and kibbeh to break into the market. Falafel is approachable as well as nostalgic and kibbeh presents a convenience, as it’s typically labor intensive to make.
Kibbeh, a shell of beef or lamb and bulgur wheat that encases a stuffing made of minced meat, onions and spices, is Syria’s national dish. There are dozens of ways to serve kibbeh: raw, baked, fried, grilled, with yogurt, layered. Afia describes theirs as a “meat croquette” prepared traditionally.
“It’s a gourmet appetizer dish that everyone loves but no one wants to make,” Sibai explains. “To us, it’s just part of every celebration that we have – whether it’s a wedding, a party or Eid. It’s a staple to us.”
Sibai understands the power of food to educate through connection. After all, everyone, regardless of culture, can relate to a feast day. Growing up, her family’s yearly tradition of fasting for Ramadan and breaking bread together established a sense of
comfort and closeness that she has passed down to her daughters and shares with her customers and staff through Afia.
“Food is the fastest way to travel,” says Sibai. “Food is a universal language that has no boundaries and no barriers. We can all understand it, and we can all speak it. Through the smells, through the flavors, through the textures, you can learn a lot about one’s culture and the way that they live.”
Sibai’s pride in her heritage reflects in the way she runs her business. Because of her family’s deep personal connection to their recipes, Sibai took on the challenge of learning the intricacies of manufacturing at scale.
“We made a decision from day one: we wanted to stay in control,” asserts Sibai. “We didn’t want our product comanufactured. We wanted my mother-in-law’s true family recipes to stay close to us.”
Balancing Afia’s efficient production and the integrity of their food is a major point of pride for Sibai. Instead of conforming their family recipes to what machinery is already available, Sibai
“
The more impactful I can be, the more help I can give and the more support to the community that I can provide.
customizes the machines to their dishes. Though she didn’t previously have a background in the food industry, manufacturing has turned into her favorite part of the business. By hand, her mother-in-law can only make 50 kibbeh per hour. At Afia’s factory, they are producing 15,000 kibbeh in the same amount of time. Their falafel production rate is even more impressive at 12 million per month. Afia also produces four different varieties of plantbased frozen meals and have recently launched a spice line. Even at this scale, their team approves of everything that leaves their plant.
Just like their machinery, Sibai and Yassin have refined their collaboration to suit the needs of their lives together as cofounders, spouses and parents. Yassin’s strengths with numbers and sales complement Sibai’s in logistics and operations. Though they spend their days onsite at work, their responsibilities often keep them in separate areas.
“I would definitely say that the lines can blur,” says Sibai. “It’s natural for you to talk through your day and what’s going on outside of work hours. Sometimes it’s difficult to break out of that, but if you’re conscious of it, you’ll start to work on it and then
“ Food is a universal language that has no boundaries and no barriers.
you’ll draw that line.”
Though automation gets Afia the numbers, their staff is all heart. They started with a team of two and have since grown to a team of 30. Through Afia, Sibai gave herself the opportunity to progress from volunteering with refugees to hiring them. Her first hire was a newly transplanted refugee who was struggling to find work to provide for his pregnant wife because he hadn’t yet learned English. Sibai not only employed him but also ensured his family’s immigration status, healthcare, finances and education were established in a new country. From that foundation, her first employee has been able to provide a stable life for his wife and daughters.
“We employ refugees of all sorts,” says Sibai. “Refugees and their plights and their struggles are the same regardless of where they’re from. But now I would say over 50 percent of the employees on the ground are refugees.
Through Afia, Sibai has also fully sponsored another employee with their university tuition.
“It’s really important to me to be able to support them,” says Sibai. “I’ve had moments in need of help. And I know the impact that can have, to get you to another place where you can start and stand on your feet again.”
Sibai’s passion and purpose feed each other, pushing her pursuit of sharing her culture and helping her people through Afia. Though she certainly has ambitious business goals (her vision is for Afia to be the “go-to” Middle Eastern brand in the United States), what ultimately and definitively drives her work is transforming the grief of her previous life to leading change for her family and community.
“The goal that touches my heart the most is the more impactful I can be, the more help I can give and the more support to the community that I can provide,” says Sibai. “That is what touches my heart the most. So my goal,
"Afia" is an Arabic toast meaning "to your health." The Sibai family is on a mission with Afia to make authentic food from scratch that fuels and nourishes the body and community. Since 2020, Afia has donated more than 300,000 falafel and kibbeh to the hungry in the Central Texas area. Additionally, Afia is working to elevate refugees and families in need. Currently, over 50% of Afia employees are refugees. Afia can be found in the freezer section at various grocery stores across the U.S.
hopefully, is just to be able to continue to grow, to be able to support the people that need support and be there for them.”
Sibai’s vision is infectious. Her daughters have witnessed the growth of Afia from a farmer’s market stall to a factory since they were early teenagers. Sibai recalls the girls assisting with cooking and even outselling Sibai and Yassin on the weekends at Lakeline and Mueller. Now, as young adults, each of Sibai’s daughters are translating her philosophy of reciprocation in their own way – even joking that they’ll eventually “take over” the company. Inspired by her childhood struggles with health, Serene is studying medicine to pass the care she received forward. Sibai’s eldest, Lana, reunited with her mother when she turned 18 and is now a production manager at the plant.
“My eldest daughter was separated from me when she was six-years-old, says Sibai. “There’s a light at the end of the tunnel. She [stands] on her feet so beautifully. It was tough for 12 years – you know – trying to fight for my daughter, but I believed that she was going to come back to me. I kept fighting for her. And she did. She came back to me.”
Sibai’s faith in herself and her community of support has remained steadfast, despite enduring a series of unforgiving hardships. She understands not only the devastating loss of restarting but the potential and opportunity one can find on the other side of trying.
“My piece of advice to women having to start over is to believe,” reflects Sibai. “But understand the word ‘believe.’ In this context, it’s a feeling of absolute certainty. Having that true belief in yourself, in what you want to achieve and what you need to overcome is what is going to get you to the next step. So, yes, belief is a very strong word. It’s a very big word.”
Embracing community to take local wine to new heights.
BY STACEY INGRAM KALEH
From making wines of the highest quality in Texas’ climate extremes, to growing grapes sustainably, to championing visions as big and bold as our state, women are propelling the Texas wine industry. And, many of these women in wine can be found right here in the Hill Country.
It's not uncommon for people in the wine profession to vividly recall what first sparked their passion for the art and science of wine. Often, they remember the people that the drink has brought together through their initial tastings and those who come in and out of their community in wine.
Claire Richardson Winemaker at Uplift Vineyard (Burnet, TX) Forging her own career path in wine, Uplift Vineyard's Claire Richardson nurtured a love for wine at family gatherings and celebrations. Eventually, she paired her love for wine with science; which led to her degree in Food Science.
“As a college student I made two promises to myself. One, to choose a career that would allow me the opportunity to always learn something new. Two, to choose a career that I could really fall in love with. Wine offers me both of those things and so much more,” shares Richardson.
Richardson specializes in Bordeaux varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec and Italian varieties such as Montepulciano and Sangiovese, which can be found at Uplift. In her winemaking approach, she finds a balance between creativity and analysis to help each variety she works with shine on its own or as part of a blend.
“I believe that a successful winemaker is sharp in both of those areas and is discerning enough to know when to pull the creative levers and when to push the analytical buttons,” Richardson says.
Julie Kuhlken Owner & CEO of Pedernales Cellars (Stonewall, TX)
Following her parents footsteps into the world of wine, Pedernales Cellars' Dr. Julie Kuhlken has been serving Hill Country wines for nearly two decades. Larry and Jeanine Kuhlken were pioneers of Texas wine, planting Kuhlken Vineyards near Fredericksburg in 1995. Julie and her brother David built on the vineyard’s success by opening a boutique winery focused on hand-crafted, small-lot wines and varieties that thrive in the area. Kuhlken shares that she and her brother grew up helping out with the vineyard.
“Over the years, watching the vines grow and doing harvests made me fall in love with the vines’ yearly cycle.”
Kuhlken loves the journey from grape to glass, as well as the chance to enjoy the final product.
“I have loved wine since my twenties,” Kuhlken shares. “My parents drank it on the weekends, and I remember the first time I could recognize a wine from just a sip.”
Nikhila Narra Davis Winemaker, Viticulturalist & Owner of Narra Vineyards (Brownfield, TX) & Kalasi Cellars (Fredericksburrg, TX) Wine is also a family affair for Narra Vineyards and Kalasi Cellars' Nikhila Narra Davis.
“My family has a rich farming heritage that spans over five generations in India, and I was fortunate to be immersed in that culture from an early age,” Narra Davis shares. “The dedication of farmers and their essential contribution to the world has always inspired me. In 2013 I planted a vineyard, Narra Vineyards, and shortly after began working in Napa Valley; which sparked my interest in winemaking.”
In 2020, Narra Davis and her partner Greg Davis opened Kalasi Cellars’ tasting room in the Hill Country where people can try a variety of red, white and rose wines made with 100 percent estate-grown grapes from Narra Vineyards.
Rae Wilson Founder & Winemaker of Wine for the People (Fredericksburrg, TX)
Working in fine dining restaurants and being associated with food writers and sommeliers, Wine for the People's Rae Wilson became interested in wine. She’s inspired by the deep-rooted history of wine, going back thousands of years and the opportunity to help people learn about the winemaking process. Wilson says there’s an entry point for everyone.
“From the ground under our feet, to the hands that farm it, the hands in the cellar that make it, and ultimately connecting with others while enjoying it,” Wilson says.
Wilson keeps her focus on the foundation of the industry, which she describes as farming and agriculture, and steers customers away from notions that wine is about social status. Through Wine for the People, Wilson seeks to manifest a spirit of connection and sense of belonging.
Each of these women in wine have been committed to making some of the highest quality wines you can find in and outside of Texas. They are also committed to fostering connection among industry professionals and their customers.
“The culture of the Texas wine community is one of camaraderie. We are all in this together,” says Richardson.
Growth is never without its challenges, but the openness to learning puts us in a great position to evolve much faster that an annual harvest would allow.
“ —Rae Wilson "
Support Texas women when you purchase these wines, made by women or by women-owned wineries:
Dolcetto, Wine for the People
Dandy Rosé, Wine for the People
Visit at 113 E. Park St. in Fredericksburg or order online at wineforthepeople.com.
Montepulciano, Uplift Vineyard
Roussanne, Uplift Vineyard
Visit at 1411 Co. Rd. 119 in Burnet or order online at upliftvineyard.com.
Texas Tempranillo Reserve, Pedernales Cellars
Texas GSM Melange, Pedernales Cellars
Visit at 2916 Upper Albert Rd. in Stonewall or order online at pedernalescellars.com.
Cabernet Sauvignon, Kalasi Cellars
Kanchi Reserve, Kalasi Cellars
Visit at 414 Goehmann Lane in Fredericksburg or order online at kalasicellars.com.
Aglianico, Portree Cellars
Cinsault Rosé, Portree Cellar s
Visit at 668 Ranch to Market Rd. 1320 in Johnson City or order online at portreecellars.com.
Viognier, Kai Simone Winery
Sangiovese, Kai Simone Winery
Visit at 7590 Old Spring Branch Rd. in Spring Branch or order online at kaisimonewinery.com.
Mourvèdre, Lightsome Wines
Learn where to find Lightsome Wines at lightsomewines.com.
Narra Davis also describes the Texas community of growers, winemakers and wine professionals as a supportive group.
“Having spent over a decade here, I've witnessed the industry's growth and the emergence of passionate young entrepreneurs exploring various avenues in vineyards and wineries,” Narra Davis shares. “Starting a business can be challenging, especially when you're young and not a billionaire, but in Texas there's a wonderful community of dedicated individuals pursuing their dreams.”
The support-one-another philosophy these women prioritize enables a culture of innovation, creativity and experimentation. It also fuels an authentic emphasis on hospitality that benefits both customers and wine professionals.
“Texans are a laid-back bunch, and so the Texas wine community reflects that,” says Kuhlken. “Texans are also very friendly, and that is reflected in the atmosphere of tasting rooms and events. It is not a ‘be seen’ kind of vibe; it is about truly connecting with other people.”
Over the past decade, Kuhlken, Narra Davis, Richardson and Wilson have seen the Texas wine industry grow and change; each actively contributing to its emerging reputation as an internationallyrespected wine region. These women in wine are rising to meet the occasion, as they're steering the future of the industry toward greater sustainability, better access and more wine made in Texas from Texas grapes.
“The Texas wine industry has substantially matured in the last decade,” says Kuhlken. “A decade ago we were just getting to a place where we were growing the right varieties for the growing conditions and soils. Getting that right was essential. Now we have lots of wineries that are bringing in healthy fruit and can hone in on the winemaking techniques that let them express themselves beautifully.”
If you’re in search of great wine, scenic views and immersive vineyard tasting experiences, there’s much to explore just a few miles outside of Austin – from Driftwood and Dripping Springs to Burnet, Hye, Johnson City and Fredericksburg. According to the Texas Department of Agriculture, Texas is the fifth-largest wineproducing region in the U.S., employing more than 141,000 Texans. Statistics from the nonprofit consortium Texas Hill Country Wineries show that the Texas Hill Country is the third-largest American Viticultural Area. It is home to over 120 wineries, more than 1200 vineyard acres and welcomes more than one million visitors each year. The Hill Country accounts for about half of the wine tourism in our state and a very strong portion of the $20 Billion-plus economic impact the Texas wine industry garners.
“The consistent improvements in quality on the growing side and the wines themselves in the past few years is remarkable,” says Wilson. “The impact is that people are sitting up and paying attention to what's happening here.”
Wilson believes the strong support from customers paired with the wine community’s willingness to experiment and learn has contributed to this rapid advancement in quality, size and reputation.
“The significant progress we've made, especially in the last 10 years, can be strongly attributed to the supportive community
Planning your next wine outing with friends and family? Consider these women-led services.
Vino Vinyasa Yoga
Vino Vinyasa, founded by certified sommelier and yoga instructor Morgan Perry, offers classes that pair yoga and wine tasting throughout the Hill Country. Catch one of their pop-ups at a local winery, at the Four Seasons hotel in Austin or book a private event. Make your plans at vinovinyasayoga.com.
Hill Country Wine Tours
B ook a ride out to the Hill Country to explore Texas wine with Hill Country Wine Tours which provides private, customized day trips to Fredericksburg, Hye, Johnson City, Wimberley, Dripping Springs and Blanco. Start planning at hillcountrywinetours.com.
on all sides that continues to work together to build a world class wine region,” Wilson says. “Growth is never without its challenges, but the openness to learning puts us in a great position to evolve much faster that an annual harvest would allow. And none of this progress would be possible without the amazing consumers and wine professionals that have supported us along the way.”
Narra Davis sees “massive potential” for the Texas wine industry to continue growing. She’s looking forward to what she describes as “greater understanding of what it means for a Texas wine to be truly authentic – 100 percent grapes grown in Texas, produced in Texas and bottled in Texas.”
Narra Davis shares that as the industry grows, so do innovative and sustainable practices that enhance the overall wine experience in Texas.
“People should care because supporting the Texas wine industry contributes to the local economy, creates jobs and fosters community,” Narra Davis says. “Additionally, Texas wines are becoming recognized for their quality and character, providing consumers with more options and encouraging exploration of regional flavors.”
The incredible continued growth of the region and industry also make the Texas Hill Country an appealing place to build a career. “Working in the Texas Hill Country as a young winemaker allows me to be a part of the growth and development of a young wine region,” says Richardson. “It is incredibly exciting for me to think about the fact that I get to grow up with the Texas wine industry and evolve in my career as it develops into a globally recognized wine region.”
As the industry establishes its identity and builds upon a sturdy foundation, some women leaders see progress being made in what has traditionally been perceived as a male-dominated and familylegacy field.
“At this point, most of the wine industry around the world reflects a small amount of the population, gender and otherwise,” remarks Wilson. “I do find it hopeful to see movement in a positive direction with individuals and groups focused on building pathways for a more diverse future. Women, specifically, are breaking through those barriers and we're seeing great progress in a more visible representation every day.”
Narra Davis has observed greater diversity in the industry.
“Over the last few years we've seen a large influx of female winemakers and winery owners coming into the Texas Hill Country
region,” says Narra Davis. “So if there are any barriers that still exist, I am optimistic they will be quickly broken down.”
When asked what advice she would give to women looking to join the Texas wine community, Wilson replied: “Find a mentor.” Several others echoed her sentiments.
One avenue for women in wine to find mentors and supportive colleagues is through Grafted, a nonprofit that is on a mission to empower, educate and provide engaging and equitable spaces for women in wine to thrive.
“We aim to sustain women to confidently own their positions as leaders, students and advocates of Texas wine,” says Grafted CoFounder and William Chris Wine Company Owner, Valerie Elkins.
Elkins found her way to the wine industry after spending considerable time in corporate America. A champion for Texas wine, Elkins serves as Executive Director of Texas Wine Growers, a consortium advocating for policies and legislation that support sustainability, transparency in labeling and 100-percent Texas wines. She also co-founded Texas Wine Auction to raise funds for enhancing health and mental health in the Texas Hill Country and to advance research focused on innovation and sustainability in Texas wine.
“Grafted started as a smaller initiative within the William Chris Wine Company,” says Elkins. “I found there were many younger ladies in the organization who were trying to find their place in our company and our industry.”
Driven by her desire to support and uplift women, Elkins created an informal group called “Ladies in Leadership,” that eventually grew into something more thanks to a shared goal to serve others
Elkins says, “We are all driven by a common passion for helping others and this group of women are so creative, interesting and fun to work with.”
Richardson takes pride in her leadership role at Grafted, compelled to contribute to the industry not only as a winemaker but as an educator and connector.
“On a deeper level, I see my specialty as cultivating connection, growth and empowerment among women in the wine industry,” Richardson shares. “Through community events, wine education
and developmental programming, we’re sustaining a space for women to tap into their full potential, build confidence and thrive at home and at work.”
“I am a big fan of women sharing information with women,” Elkins explains the impetus for Grafted’s programs. “Women are incredibly capable of supporting and lifting other women up... Groups like Grafted are trying to create those pathways and give women those voices.”
From the diverse landscape of Texas terroir embodied in the incredible taste and variety of Texas wines, to the highly-skilled people in wine, to the culture of collaboration and mentorship, the Texas wine community is one to be celebrated. And what better
way to do that than with a glass of delicious local wine?
“Napa is a wonderfully recognized wine region as are some of the other notable wine regions in the U.S. But what Texas is doing is innovative and unique,” says Elkins. “It is forging our own path and using the experience and data we are gathering to make a more significant impact on both the national and international stage. I don't know of another place in the world that is as exciting as what Texas is today.”
Whether you are a wine lover, wine-curious or simply enjoy trying new things and exploring beautiful places, visiting womenowned wineries and choosing local wines made by women is a great way to support women innovators in Central Texas.
Texas-wine focused nonprofits led by women.
Grafted
Gr afted is a personal and professional development organization focused on enriching the community of women in wine. Learn more at graftedtx.org.
Texas Hill Country Wineries
For 25 years, the Texas Hill Country Wineries trade association has been promoting wineries across the region through passport programs and curated wine dinners, which raise scholarship funds to support the next generation of Texas winemakers. Learn more at texashillcountrywineries.com.
Texas Wine Growers
Texas Wine Growers promotes and protects the integrity of Texas wine through educational programs and policy advocacy. Learn more at texaswinegrowers. com.
Texas Wine Auction Foundation
The Texas Wine Foundation funds programs that promote healthy communities and strengthen a sustainable future for Texas wines. Learn more at texaswineauction.com.
BY SHONTÉ JOVAN TAYLOR, MSC., PHDC
In today’s uncertain world, where challenges feel endless and stress seems woven into daily life, it’s more essential than ever to use food as fuel – not just for the body, but for the mind and soul. Although stress and anxiety have reached unprecedented levels, our understanding of these mental states has evolved. By nourishing ourselves holistically, we can better navigate the emotional storms that life may bring our way. As we navigate shifting social, cultural and economic landscapes, broadening our perspective on what “food” means could be one of the most empowering actions we take for our mental health.
When we talk about food, we often think of what’s on our plates. But the foods we consume impact more than just our waistlines; they affect our mental clarity, resilience and overall emotional wellbeing. Studies show that certain foods can reduce the physiological effects of stress and anxiety, enhancing our capacity to remain calm and focused. For instance, omega-3 fatty acids found in fish like salmon have been linked to reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety, according to Psychiatric Clinic. Magnesium-rich foods, such as leafy greens and nuts, play a key role in stress management by regulating cortisol levels – our body’s primary stress hormone – according to a Nutrients’ study.
Other foods, like dark chocolate and turmeric, can help reduce inflammation and promote the release of “feel-good” neurotransmitters. Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants; stimulating the production of endorphins, lifting our mood and offering a sense of comfort, according to Nutritional Neuroscience. Turmeric’s active compound, curcumin, has been shown to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety by enhancing levels of serotonin and dopamine, according to the National Library of Medicine. These are small but significant choices we can make each day to give our bodies and minds a buffer against stress.
Food is, inherently, comforting. There’s a reason many of us turn to warm soups or freshly baked bread during tough times. Psychologically, these foods represent safety and certainty, soothing our primal need for connection and security. Studies support that eating certain comfort foods can enhance feelings of emotional safety, which is especially important in an unpredictable world, according to Research Gate. Comfort foods allow us to reconnect with nostalgic memories, family traditions or simply indulge in a moment of quiet; helping ground us amid external chaos. Embracing this sense of comfort, however, is about balance and intentionality – not turning to food as an escape but using it mindfully to calm and nourish our spirits.
But food isn’t just what we consume physically. It’s also what we feed our minds. In a world where divisive rhetoric and misinformation are rampant, it’s crucial to be mindful of the informational “food” we consume daily. Just as a diet of processed foods can leave us feeling sluggish and unwell, a diet of inflammatory, misleading or fear-based information can cloud our judgment, amplify anxiety and lead us away from truth. Studies emphasize the importance of critically engaging with multiple sources, evaluating information based on long-standing credibility and staying connected to truthful, well-rounded narratives, according to the Journal of Applied Research in Memory and Cognition.
Just as we choose nutritious food for our bodies, let’s choose fulfilling, factual and integrity-rich information for our minds. By engaging our critical thinking skills – reading, comparing sources and challenging what doesn’t align with facts – we can feed our minds in ways that strengthen our resilience, broaden our understanding and nurture our capacity for empathy.
Food can be the choices we make and the environments we immerse ourselves in. Consuming food that nourishes our bodies is similar to self-care activities like art appreciation, meditation and spending time in nature to replenish our souls. These practices provide the emotional sustenance we need to thrive, making us more adaptable and balanced. Simple acts like listening actively to a friend or volunteering are powerful sources of mental nourishment and a reminder of our interconnectedness.
Communities that are welcoming, inclusive and supportive offer another dimension of nourishment. Research shows that supportive communities increase our sense of belonging and purpose, reinforcing resilience and mental health, according to Perspectives on Psychological Science. Finding or creating these communities – where kindness, friendship and inclusivity are abundant – can be as critical to our mental wellbeing as the nutrients in our meals.
As we move forward into a new year and a rapidly shifting cultural terrain, expanding our ideas about “food” can fuel our bodies, minds and life journeys. Whether it’s the literal food that we eat, the information we allow into our minds or the community we embrace, each choice is an opportunity to nourish ourselves in powerful ways.
When she speaks, we listen.
AT WELL AWARE, WOMEN GUIDE OUR WORK. THIS IS A KEY FACTOR IN OUR 100% SUCCESS RATE ACROSS ALL OF OUR CLEAN WATER SYSTEMS IN EAST AFRICA.
ACG Austin/San Antonio is the premier association focused on middle market corporate growth in Central Texas. Our goal is to help business professionals in the M&A community do more business with the right partners. We host a variety of events throughout the year to provide our local business leaders in both cities an opportunity to gain visibility and connect with people and ideas to strategically grow companies.
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“The sisterhood and supportive space the PODs offer create an environment where we can share, learn and help each other; the connections are truly invaluable.”
- ACG Austin/San Antonio Member
Thank you to Rachael Aaron, ACG President 2024, for your service and dedication in helping ACG Austin/San Antonio women members flourish.
Congratulations to Collette Kernaghan, ACG President for 2025!
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The woman behind the barrel at Still Austin.
BY EMILY MALDONADO
The Texas whiskey scene has been sizzling in recent years, with Austin emerging as a rising force in the spirits world. At the forefront of this movement is Nancy Fraley, the Master Blender at Still Austin Whiskey Co., who has just received the prestigious title of Women of Whiskey’s 2024 Master Blender of the Year. Fraley’s achievements are as impressive as they are inspiring, shining a light on the craftsmanship, science and artistry required to create whiskey that is both nuanced and bold.
Known in industry circles as “Nancy the Nose,” Fraley’s journey into whiskey began not in a traditional setting, but in the revered Cognac and Armagnac regions of France. Under the guidance of Master Blenders, she learned old world techniques that continue to shape her approach to blending today. Among the skills she mastered was the art of Slow Water Reduction, a practice that emphasizes patience and care to reveal layers of complexity in the spirit. Fraley brought this technique to Still Austin, enhancing each sip of her blends with a taste profile that is rich and deeply textured.
Her blending talent took center stage with the release of Still Austin’s flagship bourbon, The Musician, in 2020, which put the distillery on the map as Austin’s first true grain-to-glass distillery since the end of Prohibition. Each bottle is infused with a sense of place, representing the Texas terroir through locally sourced grains and meticulous craft. For Fraley, blending is more than a skill, it’s a calling. Her sensory talents and scientific approach to spirits have garnered both local and national admiration, with the Women of Whiskey (WOW) award representing yet another high point in her career.
Organized in partnership with the Bourbon Women Foundation, the WOW Awards honor women leaders who have not only made significant contributions to whiskey but who are also actively paving the way for future generations.
“In an industry with a predominantly male presence, I hope this recognition encourages more women to pursue their passion for whiskey and bring their unique perspectives to the craft,” Fraley shared.
Her humility and drive to uplift others reflect her deep commitment to the whiskey community and her hope to inspire other women to find their path in the industry.
Beyond blending, Fraley’s impact on the whiskey world extends through her innovative contributions. She developed *The Craft Whiskey Aroma Wheel*, a now-standard tool that helps categorize and analyze whiskey aromas, guiding both connoisseurs and novices in exploring the diverse world of whiskey. Her exceptional sense of smell – a superpower in the
industry – earns her high praise and her memorable nickname, “Nancy the Nose.” She is known for her ability to detect even the faintest nuances, offering insights that transform each bottle of Still Austin whiskey into a work of art.
As Fraley steps forward with her recent accolade, her work continues to break boundaries and set a new standard for what a whiskey can be. For her, each blend is not just about technical perfection; it’s about honoring the traditions she learned in France, embracing the innovation she’s fostered at Still Austin and championing the next generation of women in whiskey. Fraley’s story is more than a personal success, it’s a tribute to the evolving role of women in the world of spirits and a reminder that the best whiskey is often found where artistry and science meet.
Fraley’s recognition as Women of Whiskey’s Master Blender of the Year is a reminder of the extraordinary talent making whiskey here in the Lone Star State. Her win is a proud moment for the team at Still Austin, and for anyone who’s passionate about the booming growth of Texas whiskey. Cheers to Nancy Fraley, a trailblazer in the truest sense, whose journey continues to raise the bar for women in whiskey – one perfectly crafted barrel at a time.
Step into Blue Suede - where luxury meets leisure. Discover a curated collection of stunning women’s shoes and accessories in an ambiance like no other. Sip on fine wines, savor crafted charcuterie boards, and unwind in our elegant lounge. Treat yourself. You deserve it.
A blood orange margarita that is perfect for the Holidays.
BY DEBORAH HAMILTON-LYNNE
For Manuel's 40th anniversary, they released a new option on their drink menu: The Manuelian Sunset. This is a tequila-based cocktail that combines the smooth flavor of premium tequila with the vibrant crimson hue of fresh blood orange.
The Manuelian Sunset begins with a base of 100% LALO blue agave tequila, a local favorite selected for its crisp, citrusy notes. The star of the show is the fresh blood orange puree, which lends a rich, fruit flavor and vibrant crimson holiday color, finished with a splash of freshly squeezed lime juice and a touch of triple sec for a hint of sweetness and depth.
This is a fresh and festive cocktail – perfect for the holidays!
Recipe:
Ingredients:
• 1.5 oz Silver Tequila
• 0.5 oz Cointreau
• 0.5 oz blood orange juice
• 0.75 oz simple syrup
• 1 oz lime juice
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing tin with ice.
2. Add all ingredients and shake vigorously.
3. Empty shaker contents into a rocks glass with a salted rim.
Manuel's Great Hills
What becomes an icon most? How does a restaurant blend the welcoming atmosphere of Cheers with the resiliency and tenacity of The Bear? What is the recipe for 40 years in business in our fast-growing metropolis where so many of our favorite restaurants have been replaced by development and corporate backed cuisine?
The Manuel's 4 step recipe for success:
1. Authentic Regional Cuisine
Nothing beats going back to the unique flavors, ingredients and preparation rooted in personal experience for authenticity. At Manuel’s, the recipes for signature dishes and drinks honor the traditional cuisine and local dishes owner Greg Koury discovered during his lifelong visits to Mexico. A commitment to only the best ingredients – fresh, locally sourced, wild-caught and sustainable – without cutting corners sets a gold standard for food and drink.
2. Welcoming Atmosphere
The design should reflect the “personality” of the restaurant. Both the interior and exterior spaces designed by co-owner Jennifer McNevin are open and comfortable, combining an upscale, laid-back Austin vibe with a nod to escaping to a patio in Mexico where you can leave your cares behind.
3. Community
The best way to build a patron base that returns again and again to enjoy their favorite meals and celebrate the important occasions in their lives is to make them part of a community. This begins with creating a family feeling among staff with a stake in the game to deliver impeccable service. Nothing is more important to longevity than a long-term, experienced staff and an engaged and loyal clientele.
4. Live the Legacy
Dream of the legacy you want to build and live that dream. Legacy businesses contribute to the identity of their neighborhoods and the city as a whole and are essential to Austin’s culture. A restaurant can become part of the fabric of the city and meals enjoyed there can live in patrons’ memories for a lifetime.
The Secret Sauce "We are survivors," says McNevin. "Our ability to adapt and evolve while staying true to our core values and serving dishes you can't get anywhere else has been key to our longevity. We've faced every challenge head-on, from the dot-com crash and the stock market crash of '87 to the S & L financial crisis, 9/11, the Great Recession and even the COVID-19 pandemic. Through it all, we have maintained an unwavering commitment to our food, our staff and our community. That's the secret to our longevity."
How Go! Retail Group's Alex Winkelman is transforming a passion for fun with toys.
BY ALEX WINKELMAN
Growing up, I always wanted to be in retail – fashion specifically. I was accepted, early decision, to FIDM (Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising), but living with a local family in Costa Rica the summer after my junior year in high school changed my life.
I found myself wanting to be in the impact space and I made that dream come true, pivoting to study education and then social entrepreneurship. I immediately put my degree to work while running a nonprofit that I started in college, and then on a start-up in the maternal health space focused on community, resources and support for women and mothers.
Then in 2020, I found myself newly divorced without a paying job, a caregiver to my mom who was dying of Progressive Supranuclear Palsy, and in a pandemic with a five-year-old at home with me.
Talk about needing a support system! I was in need of the very thing I was putting in countless unpaid hours into at my start-up to help other women. This time, I needed to help myself. I could no longer do the entrepreneurial life in the way I had been nor did I want to do the “go big or go home” approach. I needed and wanted a salary, a team, health insurance, benefits and a 401k – most of which I had never had through a job.
It’s been three years since I joined Go! Retail Group, the company that my dad, Marc Winkelman, 4th generation retailer, has been building and running since we moved to Austin in 1993. A big (and favorite!) part of my job is building brands that are centered around kids — Toys“R”Us, Wonder World, and Snoozimals are a few of our brands that I work on.
As a mom to a now 10 year old, I am incredibly passionate about kids being healthy and happy and growing into healthy, happy, and responsible adults. This feels extra important and pressing today as we see a rise in mental health issues among young people. Jonathan Heidt, author of The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness, shares that our kids are in crisis, as we are seeing startling rises in high psychological distress, anxiety, depression, emergency room visits, self-harm, school alienation and suicide attempts in adolescents and teens. Heidt cites study after study that shows that between 2010 and 2015, with the introduction of smartphones, social media, forward facing cameras and online video games, things changed drastically for our kids and their mental health; calling it a “tidal wave” of adolescent mental illness.
There are five important features of childhood: slow-growth, free play, connection with parents and caregivers, social learning and getting the right experiences at the right time. These aspects of childhood are
essential to becoming healthy and happy adults, but we are seeing a decline in all of this due to a number of factors, including “phone based childhoods;” whether parents and/or caregivers are on the phone or the children themselves are on the phone or tablet.
The solution is not easy, but a few things are clear. We need to play more. All of us – not just the kids. And we need more in-person connection. When we open new stores in a day and age that most have disappeared and online shopping reigns, and when people come in to find a new toy to play with, a new game for game night, or art supplies to be creative with, I am inspired and hopeful. While some might think we simply sell toys and games, what we really sell is growth, playfulness, creativity, imagination, connection, curiosity, and joy.
There is no shortage of smiles and laughter in our stores and when playing with our products. Come into one of our Austin-area locations and see for yourself: Wonder World at Barton Creek Mall, Attic Salt at Barton Creek Mall, and Toys“R”Us at Tanger San Marcos.
Just in time for the holidays – some favorites toys and games that bring calm, joy and connection to me and my son: Monopoly, Uno, Lego, Koosh Double Paddle Set, Othello, Chess, Rubik’s Race, Guess Who? and Mancala.
Alex Winkleman is the Executive Vice President of Business Development at Go! Retail Group. Go! Retail Group is a family of brands comprised of Calendars.com, Calendar Club, Go! Toys & Games, Attic Salt, NIQUEA.D, Snoozimals, Tiny Headed Kingdom and Kobioto.
goretailgroup.com
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