A Publication of Edmond Life & Leisure
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At Home in Edmond Spring 2019
A Publication of Edmond Life & Leisure
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At Home in Edmond Spring 2019
A Publication of Edmond Life & Leisure
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At Home in Edmond Spring 2019
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Contents
8 A PASSION FOR POOLS
Darrick Ellis’ designs bring outdoor paradise to life
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28 OUTDOOR EXCELLENCE
Nelson Landscaping celebrates 25 years of outdoor services
32 PROUDLY OVERBUILT 10 LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER Homes by Taber offers quality, energy efficient homes in 12 BUILDING EDMOND: REALTOR PROFILES Edmond We take a look at four Edmond realtors 34 ON TREND! 16 CUSTOM, CREATIVE AND CONVENIENT Q&A with Homes by Taber’s design team Take a Nested Tour from your ‘now’ home to your next home 37 THE VERADEN: A BETTER WAY OF LIFE Senior Living Community offers unique experiences 20 A TIME TO BUILD (OR REMODEL) Doug Peterson of Paragon Homes and Remodeling talks trends 40 THE PERFECT PICNIC Tips from Edmond Wine Shop and Gourmet Gallery 23 SIGN(S) OF THE TIME Edmond introduces new signage 42 OKLAHOMA HIKING Two trails offer different hiking experiences 24 MAKE A SPLASH INTO SPRING Fashion by Bison Creek Clothing and Fashion Boutique 44 HIKING: A FAMILY AFFAIR Local expert offers tips for bringing the little ones along 26 EDMOND EATS A quick look at a few new Edmond-area restaurants 46 ADVERTISER’S INDEX
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At Home in Edmond Spring 2019
A
Passion for Pools
DARRICK ELLIS’ DESIGNS BRING OUTDOOR PARADISE TO LIFE PHOTOS PROVIDED
Darrick Ellis of Town and Country Pools in Edmond utilizes computer software to create 3D outdoor concepts for his clients. By Mallery Nagle Darrick Ellis doesn’t wait for springtime to head outdoors. The designer at Town and Country Pools in Edmond says he “lives outside” and wants to help clients be able to enjoy the great outdoors as much as he does. Town and Country Pools recently opened its Edmond showroom at 3825 NW 166th St, Ste. C10. Although Ellis emphasizes that he is not an architect or an engineer, he has done landscaping and design for 26 years. Using computer-aided design or CAD-based software, he produces 3-D designs and site plans for homeowners, commercial homebuilders and pool builders. He also produces videos for an interactive view of a concept. His passion is designing outdoor living rooms, kitchens, fire pits and pools. Now that his children are older, he said
he enjoys being able to spend more time at home. “I’m tired of traveling, and I decided to create my own little paradise at home,” he said. He also works to create a little paradise for his clients.
He said his software helps clients not only visualize a project, it helps them remain realistic and within budget. “It’s one thing to draw a plan and another thing to build it,” he said, explaining that people can get excited about a project, yet not be aware of the complexities, limitations or cost of actually completing the job. He said he emphasizes function over form. The plans he produces help people see what will actually work, given the parameters of a client’s property, including lot drainage or the grade of the property.
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Trends in pool construction include linear designs that are clean and simple. A popular feature is a tanning or Baja ledge. This creates a shallow area for young children to play in or for sunbathers to be semi-submerged in the water. Glass garage-style doors are popular on cabanas and pool houses. Ellis pointed out that the glass doors create a multi-seasonal room. “It’s a place to dwell with all the creature comforts of home,” he said. “You can have climate control with all the openness of the windows.” Fire pits extend the patio season, and he has installed both wood-burning and gas-fueled pits. Also gaining popularity are outdoor heaters. The combination of the two create what Ellis called a “microclimate,” keeping people comfortable even when outdoor temperatures dip into the 30s.
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“It’s my passion; I love living outside,” he said. “Typically, my clients are just as passionate. It’s fun for me to see someone get excited when they can see it,” he said, pointing to the fact that plans can become virtual replicas of a finished product, thanks to the 3-D capabilities. Although Ellis does not actually perform the construction, he prides himself on seeing projects “through to the end.” “I want to protect all the investment they (clients) have made,” he said, adding the software allows him to address all the issues that might arise with a project. “I love to design, and it’s fun and rewarding to see people’s visions come to life,” he said. For more information on Town and Country Pools, visit tandcoutdoor.com or call 405-216-3233.
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At Home in Edmond Spring 2019
Letter from the Publisher
WELCOME TO SPRING AT HOME IN EDMOND!
Thank you for taking the time to view Edmond’s only locally owned and operated magazine. If you are new to our publication, it will quickly become clear that we are about all things Edmond. Our staff and ownership are uniquely qualified to inform you on what is happening in our community. We started our publishing company in the spring of 2000. To say Edmond has grown since then would be an understatement. Our number of households in 2000 was 25,166 and it rose to 36,020 in 2018 with a projection of 38,767 in 2023 according to the Edmond Economic Development Authority. If you are like us, your home is one of if not the biggest investment you will make in life. Edmond’s population has grown from just under 70,000 in 2000 to over 90,000 in 2018. The projection for 2023 is for our population to be over 100,000. These are numbers within the Edmond city limits. If you included the entire Edmond school district, the numbers would be much larger. The success and quality of our Edmond Public Schools has no doubt been the greatest economic driver for the city. Edmond has added over the last three years more than $225 million investment into Edmond’s medical industry. Integris Health Edmond, OU Medical Center Edmond and Mercy Edmond at I-35 have all either built new facilities or added to what was already in place. Edmond has become an excellent choice for quality health care. It is just another of the many reasons Edmond offers a great quality of life. The bottom line to all the numbers is that any investment in purchasing a new home or remodeling your current home in Edmond is a good one. Our community is an outstanding place to live, raise a family and retire. Edmond has received numerous qualities of life ranked awards from local, state and national organizations. This spring and summer are an exciting time in Edmond. There are many upcoming activities for you and your family to enjoy, even if you live outside of Edmond. You may not be able to vote in Edmond city elections, but you are more than welcome to come experience the quality of life we enjoy in our community. I must thank our staff from advertising, production and the news room for all their hard work. Creating a beautiful, glossy magazine can be challenging when you put out a weekly newspaper and have all the deadlines that go with it. Our staff has risen to the challenge and worked hard to produce a quality magazine that Edmond can enjoy. We also thank our many loyal advertisers and welcome the new advertisers for their support of the spring edition of At Home in Edmond.
Ray Hibbard Publisher Edmond Life & Leisure At Home in Edmond
For tips on hiking with kids, see page 44.
PUBLISHER
Ray Hibbard
EDITOR
April Burgess
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Rose Drebes Mallery Nagle Erika Williams
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS April Burgess Deanne York
PHOTOGRAPHERS Melinda Infante Chris Thomas Erika Williams Deanne York
ADVERTISING
Alexx Harms Advertising Director Chris Thomas Account Executive For information on advertising in At Home in Edmond, call 405-340-3311
READER SERVICES
107 South Broadway Edmond OK 73034 Phone 405-340-3311 Fax 405-340-3384
WEBSITE AND SOCIAL MEDIA
edmondlifeandleisure.com @edmondlifeandleisure
Cover photo by Nested Tours
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3 DISTINCT NEIGHBORHOODS One just for you!
Walking Trails Clubhouse Fitness Center Resort Style Pool
CROSSTIMBERS.LIFE
HOMES AVAILABLE
SUMMER/FALL 2019 Cross Timbers Addition N
CLUBHOUSE UNDER CONSTRUCTION
OURBUILDERS BUILDERS INCLUDE: OUR INCLUDE: CREEK SIDE
• • • I-35
★
Sooner
Coltrane
W
THE LAKES
•
Covell
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THE RIDGE
E
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At Home in Edmond Spring 2019
Whether you’re new to Edmond, upgrading to your dream home, or (sadly) leaving us to pursue other dreams in life, these four Edmond Realtors use their expertise to ease you through the process of buying or selling a home in Edmond.
BRAD REESER Win-Win or no deal – that is at the heart of the mission at Keller Williams Realty. “We have built a great business off of that motto,” Brad Reeser, of the company’s Brad Reeser Team, said. “Over the years, I have worked to assemble a very compassionate, caring, hard-working team that goes above and beyond to make the buying or selling process as easy as possible.” Reeser said he has had “the great fortune” to sell real estate in the Edmond area for 36 years. “My mother and father got their real estate licenses in 1977 and did very well and loved what they were doing,” he said. “I had always been intrigued by the real estate business, so it didn’t take much encourage-
DANNY MARX Salesmanship isn’t what a prospective first-time property owner needs at the beginning of the real estate transaction process, Danny Marx, an agent with Keller Williams in Edmond, says. “They need honesty and current market conditions which to base decisions on,” he said. “When a choice is made or property goes on the market, salesmanship follows.” “My mission is to create a seamless transaction using communication and trusted professional partners.” Marx said his interest in the real estate profession was piqued when he bought his first home in 1986. “I began to track sales and as Edmond grew, I saw the values increasing rapidly,” he said. “In
SUZANNE OGLE It was Mo Anderson, the acclaimed former president and CEO of Keller Williams, who drew Suzanne Ogle to the real estate industry. Anderson, who owned several Keller Williams franchises and later took over the helm of the company, was the catalyst of the exponential growth of the company. “What I knew of the industry seemed so exciting,” Ogle said. While she has been in real estate for a year, Ogle is also the long-time owner of Edmond’s Tangles Salon and Boutique.
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REBECCA FIELD Real estate is Rebecca Field’s passion and family is her love. But, work as a Keller Williams agent makes it possible to honor both. “I joined my father, Jerry Payne, at Keller Williams 14 years ago and together with my mom, Sandy Payne, we formed the Payne group,” she said. Rebecca said her mission in real estate and her personal life are the same: always tell the truth and always do what’s right. “If you do these two things, everything else will fall into the right place.” The Payne Group’s philosophy is simple: clients come first. “We pledge to be in constant communication with our clients, keeping them fully informed throughout the entire
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Realtor Profiles
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BRAD REESER
DANNY MARX
SUZANNE OGLE
REBECCA FIELD
ment from my mother for me to sell my home improvement business and get my license in October of 1982.” “Of course, mom always knows best. I’m incredibly lucky to have been mentored by one of the finest real estate and business minds in the industry, my dad, Pete Reeser.” The Brad Reeser Team mainly specializes in residential real estate, but also does quite a bit of vacant land, investment property and commercial real estate transactions. “We’ve sold real estate through the Oil Bust of the mid 1980s and early 1990s, the DotCom Bust of the late 1990s /early 2000s, through the 2008 meltdown and through the more recent challenges we have been facing from lower commodity prices,” Reeser said. “We adjust to market conditions rapidly, offer guidance accordingly and sell right through.” During this time of year, the real estate market really starts picking up, he said. “We have a number of different smaller niches within our larger Edmond real estate market,” Reeser said. “Some price ranges are currently a sellers’ market, while others offer great buying opportunities.” Edmond’s real estate market in 2018 (defined by Edmond Schools boundaries, not city limits) was the largest year ever recorded not only in terms of total dollar amount, but also in number of transactions, he said. Reeser said he has been blessed to sell real estate for over half of his life in “one of the best cities in the country” -- and to work alongside his parents throughout his career. “I look forward to many more years of helping people buy and sell homes.” For more information, call 330-2626 or visit www.bradreeser.com.
1994, I made a career shift to retail in downtown Edmond which led to a wonderful opportunity to purchase a commercial property.” Residential rentals soon followed, including a few flip properties and several personal moves which educated him even more about the process. A good friend who was a realtor suggested that Marx become an agent, too. “This instantly inspired me,” he said. “I went to real estate school the next week and received my license the week after that.” Marx is an Accredited Buyer’s Representative and said he enjoys working with buyers. “With my experience in the area and easily understanding buyers’ criteria, I know the exact areas to focus on during the search,” he said. “This helps to keep from looking at several homes needlessly.” Marx has actually been in sales for 39 years, which he said helps him determine personality traits. “This experience has given me considerable negotiation skills and problem solving ability.” The market these days is extremely competitive for firsttime buyers, Marx said. “They are experiencing multiple offers on properties,” he said. “As the price range goes up, so do the days on market. Coming off a slow holiday season, activity has increased substantially.” Marx said that real estate continues to be a wise investment. “Investing in real estate is a phenomenal wealth-building tool.” For more information, call 627-7584 or email danny@ marxonthemove.com.
“With my 40 years of sales and business experience and working with people, real estate was a perfect fit,” she said. She loves working with first-time buyers or many-time buyers. She and her team utilize the latest technologies, market research and business strategies to exceed their clients’ expectations. “More importantly, we listen. That means we find solutions that are tailored to you,” she said. The Ogle Team believes every transaction must be a Win-Win – which is the motto of Keller Williams. “We like to keep clients educated and informed every step of the way,” she said. “Being from the area, we know so many people.” The market is really moving, Ogle said. “Houses are selling with relocations and empty nesters who are looking to ‘right-size,’” she said. “Many are just in the mood for a new house.” Ogle said she is grateful that she has had the opportunity to be a part of Keller Williams. “We are with the No. 1 real estate company in the world,” she said. “I love the training, love the culture, love the relationships new and old. It’s fun!” For more information, contact the Ogle Team at 8260134 or by email at suzanneogle@kw.com.
buying or selling process,” Rebecca said. “We believe that if you’re not left with an amazing experience, we haven’t done our job. We don’t measure success through achievements or awards, but through the satisfaction of our clients.” She said she loves helping with both selling and listing homes. “If I had to choose one,” Rebecca said. “It would be listing houses. I love the process of helping sellers get their homes ready for the market, pricing and the marketing process.” Rebecca has worked for the last 13 years with Heartland Homes, a local metro builder, listing their new construction homes. “Listing homes builds relationships that last a lifetime,” she said. The market right now is very active. “We a have a great amount of listings and buyers,” Rebecca said. The right time to buy or list a home is now. “If you’re on the fence about selling, do it now,” she said. “Sellers are getting top dollar for their homes.” Working with her parents is something Rebecca said she never thought she would do, but the experience has been wonderful. “It has been one of the best decisions I have ever made,” she said. “I love real estate!” For more information, call or visit www.thepaynegroupcentraloklahoma. com or call 6203795 or 314-7438.
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Custom, Creative, and Convenient
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At Home in Edmond Spring 2019
TAKE A NESTED TOUR FROM YOUR ‘NOW’ HOME TO YOUR NEXT HOME By Mallery Nagle House hunting can be exhausting. It can be time consuming and confusing. But a revolutionary service headquartered in downtown Edmond allows you to shop for your new home without having to leave home. Edmond native Caleb Collins opened Nested Tours four years ago to offer visual property listings to real estate agents, builders and developers. Last year, he slashed his clients’ properties’ average time on the market from 61 days to 30 days. The company offers photos, flyers, videos, 3-D content and social media management in the Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Lawton and Grand Rapid, Mich. markets. Listings in other Oklahoma towns are available. A graphic artist by trade, Collins did some video work at LifeChurch and won some awards for his photography. “I didn’t think I could make a living at it,” he admitted. He tried his hand at creative photography and spent a few years as a traveling church musician. After he met his wife, he realized his traveling days were over, and looked for a career where he could put down some roots. A church friend and mentor suggested real estate photography. Collins went to work for a company to learn the industry
before starting out on his own. Today, Nested Tours employs 10 photographers and six office staff members. Services include: • Photo tour for online listings • Creative photography for builders and interior designers • Lifestyle photography or tight images of design elements
PHOTOS PROVIDED
Above, Caleb Collins’ (far right) Nested Tours now employs 10 photographers and six office staff members.
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PHOTOS PROVIDED
Nested Tours provides a variety of real estate photography services, including exterior, interior, lifestyle, twilight and drone photography. All their photographers have commercial drone licenses. • Drone photos and video packages (all photographers have commercial drone licenses) for larger properties • Video walk-through tours with music or voice overs • Indoor and outdoor photography • Virtual staging for empty spaces • Matterport, a service that uses infrared sensors to scan the listing to create a life-like 3-D model of the space • Social media management with custom marketing
materials updated on a monthly basis The service allows house hunters to see a home before deciding if they would actually like to take the time to visit the property. It also allows potential buyers to re-visit a property without having to make another trip. The service is also a huge time saver for out-of-town house hunters who may have a limited period to take tours. His track record speaks for itself. “It just shows how continued on Page 18
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At Home in Edmond Spring 2019
Nested Tours
important it is to have professional photography for your home,” he said pointing to the lightning-quick results his clients enjoy. In addition, users may take advantage of Nested’s automated scheduling tool. Clients use the company’s portal to see each photographer’s schedule. That way, the customer is able to schedule appointments with his or her favorite photographer at his or her convenience. Collins invites anyone who is interested in using a pro-
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fessional real estate photographer to try his automated pricing tool. Potential clients may visit nestedtours.com to create an account and get an instant quote. “All you have to do is type in an address,” he said. The company partners with Google and Zillow to get estimates of a home’s square footage and number of rooms. “We want to create the most convenience,” Collins said. For more information, contact Nested Tours at (405) 887-4108 or info@nestedtours.com.
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At Home in Edmond Spring 2019
Time to Build (or Remodel)
DOUG PETERSON OF PARAGON HOMES AND REMODELING TALKS TRENDS PHOTOS BY MELINDA INFANTE
Granite countertops, open floor plans and sit-down vanities are popular requests according to Doug Peterson of Paragon Homes and Remodeling. By Mallery Nagle Spring is a great time to update your home. Or perhaps you’d like a whole new home. In either case, Doug Peterson, owner of Paragon Homes and Remodeling, can help. With more than 35 years of experience in the construction business, Peterson installs replacement windows and doors, remodels existing homes and even builds a new home or two each year. He travels the state replacing doors and windows in older homes and buildings. Customers, he said, are in search of wood or high-end vinyl. “They want to upgrade,” Peterson said of his clients. “It’s cosmetic and it’s energy efficient. They’re (high end windows and doors) in high demand. It’s booming.” Other remodeling jobs take Peterson to the bathroom and into the kitchen. While remodels in these rooms are the most popular, they tend to also be the most expensive areas to renovate, he noted. In the master bath, people are looking for bigger shower stalls. Many people, he pointed out, are electing to get rid of the bath tub to accommodate the larger shower. Women are opting for sit-down vanities on their side of bathroom. In the kitchen, cabinets and countertops are the clients’ number one priority. Peterson said people want to reconfig-
ure cabinetry and they want to add cabinet storage. Granite is still a popular choice for countertop material. In addition, people are also opting to add islands to the kitchen to increase counter space. Open floor plans are also frequent requests. Peterson said he is asked to remove walls or broaden doorways to create great rooms, a combination of a family room and a kitchen. In other areas of the home, Peterson often is asked to upgrade trim work. continued on Page 22
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Paragon Homes and Remodeling Paragon Home and Remodeling will also build custom homes and homes on spec. Peterson said he usually builds two or three houses per year. His typical home is 2,5003,000 square feet. “They’re on the higher end of the range as far as amenities,” he said. His new homes sport wooden windows, granite counter tops and all are well insulated. “I will not use cheap, builder grade materials or appliances,” he said. “I don’t agree with that.” The three houses he plans to build this year are in North Central Edmond, near Waterloo Road. He believes in build-
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ing these mid-sized homes on large lots. “It’s a good investment,” he noted. Peterson takes his own advice of not purchasing the largest home in the neighborhood. He built his own home in Edmond’s Twin Bridges addition. His signature-size home is one of the smaller floor plans in the development, and he hopes to build another home in his subdivision soon. For more information on Paragon Homes and Remodeling, contact paragonhomes10@gmail.com or call (405) 596-9907.
PHOTOS BY MELINDA INFANTE
Peterson recommends building mid-sized homes on large lots. “It’s a good investment.”
Sign(s) of the Times
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You may have noticed the new sign at the Broadway entrance to Edmond. City crews recently installed the new sign as part of an ongoing effort to create a more unified look for city entities, including parks and city buildings as well as the welcome signs. “Our City Council really wants to create more consistency in our signage and identification throughout the city,” said Marketing & Public Relations Manager Casey Moore. “This new design captures both a historic and modern feel for Edmond, and we think our residents will be very pleased with the improvements.”
PHOTOS PROVIDED
Top, work in progress on the Broadway sign. Bottom, the finished sign before landscaping is complete. Far left and left, artist renderings of the projected signage.
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At Home in Edmond Spring 2019
Clothing provided by: Bison Creek Clothing 1 N. Broadway Downtown Edmond
Bison Cre
ek Clothin
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Fashion Boutique 104 S. Broadway Downtown Edmond
utique
Bo Fashion
Models: Nicole Thomas Kaitlyn Hester Photographer: Chris Thomas
Bison Creek Clothing
A Publication of Edmond Life & Leisure
Fashion Boutique
Fashion Boutique
Fashion Boutique
Clothing k e e r C Bison
Bison Cre
ek Clothin
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Edmond Eats
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One of the best things about city life is all the amazing choices you have for eating out, and Edmond is no exception. Here are a few of the newest restaurants in Edmond that you may not be familiar with. Give them a try and let us know what you think, or tell us of YOUR favorite new restaurant, on our Facebook, Twitter or Instagram pages! Search for “Edmond Life and Leisure” on your favorite social media platform. Maps are approximate.
Kelly
Bahama Bucks
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Bahama Bucks Recently celebrating their grand opening at 1468 N Kelly, Bahama Bucks specializes in shaved ice and other non-alcoholic beverages, including smoothies and coffee.
Danforth
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Tamashii Ramen
Boulevard
East 5th Street
Tamashii Ramen Capitalizing on the Japanese noodle craze, Tamashii Ramen recently opened their second location at 132 E. 5th St in Edmond, after being successful in Oklahoma City, continuing the founders’ dream of bringing the atmosphere and flavors of Japanese comfort food to Oklahoma.
Kelly
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Lemonade House • Grille
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Lemonade House Grille Offering way more than just lemonade (of which they have a vast selection), Lemonade House Grille has items like salads, street tacos, burgers and more on the menu. This new restaurant is located at 1444 N Kelly.
Kelly
Danforth
Bethlehem Mediterranean Grill
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Bethlehem Mediterranean Grill Featuring “wholesome authentic Mediterranean cuisine,” Bethlehem Mediterranean Grill is family owned and operated and also serves Halal-certified meats and local produce. They can be found at 733 W. Danforth.
Chalk Sports Bar Memorial
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Western
Danforth
Chalk Sports Bar The owners of Chalk Sports Bar “wanted to bring something to Oklahoma City that showcased our love of sports and allowed us to host you as if you were at our house.” The menu features some unique items such as pastrami fries, fried deviled eggs, pimento burger and Pork Osso Bucco, as well as standard soups, salads and burgers. Find them at 1324 W. Memorial.
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At Home in Edmond Spring 2019
Outdoor Excellence NELSON LANDSCAPING CELEBRATES 25 YEARS OF OUTDOOR SERVICES PHOTOS PROVIDED
Nelson Landscaping offers many landscaping services, including outdoor kitchens and fireplaces, outdoor lighting, walkways and more. By Erika Williams This year, Nelson Landscaping is celebrating its 25th anniversary. This full-service landscaping company provides a variety of outdoor services for homes and commercial properties across the Edmond and Oklahoma City area, but what many people don’t know is that this company started out as a simple lawn mowing business. “Whenever I got denied a job at the post office at the age of 12, I decided to start my lawn business, back in 1995,” said company owner Andy Nelson. “The first year, I handed out flyers in my neighborhood, and I landed three yards. When I was 15, I hired my first employee. By the time I graduated high school, I had two full-time crews.” Over the past 25 years, Andy has grown his business from the ground up, and Nelson Landscaping now has 40 employees. “It’s grown every single year since 1995. It’s really been a blessing that we can say that. In all of the economic downturn we were still able to grow it,” said Andy. For several years, Andy and his crews focused on yard maintenance, but by 2007, the company had shifted its
focus from landscaping to services. Said Andy, “We started specializing in the design/build process and we really haven’t looked back. After 2007, we didn’t grow the maintenance side of our company anymore. We actually sold off the maintenance side in 2017.” Andy worked hard to learn everything he needed to know to have a successful landscaping business in Oklahoma. He wanted to make spaces functional throughout the year, not just in warm weather. “It’s a steep learning curve. Oklahoma is a really tough climate to know what works as far as plant material goes. We have sub 10-degree temperatures and we have 100-degree temperatures. You have to have plant material that can survive in both elements,” said Andy. “It’s the same with pool construction. There’s things to consider when you’re building a pool and an outdoor living space and how clients can use their space year-round in spite of all the elements that we deal with.” Moving from yard maintenance to landscaping was a natural progression for the company. Andy says he was very excited to take his company into a new direction.
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PHOTO PROVIDED
Among their many projects was this Street of Dreams house in 2018. “At first, we started it because we were just passing off landscaping work to other companies. We didn’t know how to do it, but it became my passion,” said Andy. “I fell in love with the whole process. I love enhancing properties whether its commercial or residential. I just love adding value to someone’s home or office.” Nelson Landscaping offers the design and installation of outdoor kitchens, patios, water features, irrigation systems and more. Andy says he and his team work hard to make
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the customer’s experience as stress-free and customizable as possible. “We want to give the customer exactly what they want. They’re the ones in their backyards dreaming and scheming this stuff up. They envision it and research what they want online. We get that, and we’re going to do everything we can to make it their project, and put their stamp on it,” said Andy. Advancements in technology have helped with this process along the way. Andy says that he and his team like to stay up to date when it comes to technology. “We go to conferences and seminars to learn what the latest trends are and what the latest technology is. We do everything we can do to be a step ahead of everybody else in our market,” said Andy. “The core of our company is in the age range of 30s and 40s, so we still have a strong desire to change with the times.” Nelson Landscaping’s services are offered year-round. Although many people start thinking about their landscaping in the spring, Andy says it can actually be better for plant life to start in the fall or winter. Planting earlier gives the plant roots time to get established before the extreme summer temperatures set in. Andy also said that customers who hope to enjoy their outdoor living space in the spring should start the consultation process early because it can take 3-6 weeks to get continued on Page 30
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Nelson Landscaping the installation process underway. Andy added that he and his company are able to get projects completed on a faster timeline when necessary. “There are occasions where we can expedite something. If somebody calls us in March and says they’re having a huge party in April, and they need something done we can make that happen,” said Andy. “We’re the size of company where can split crews and put extra guys on projects to get it done quicker, if we have to.” Nelson Landscaping has had plenty of success over the past 25 years. Andy attributes this success to attitudes towards growth and leadership within the company. “I’d say the most important thing that separates us from our competition is that we spend a lot of time, effort, and money in developing our leadership and developing our culture,” said Andy. “We just have an incredible culture. It’s an incredible place to work.” Andy says that moving forward his vision is to continue to work hard and grow his company even more. “Our mission is to be considered as Oklahoma City’s premiere outdoor living space contractor, and just to be regarded as Oklahoma’s City’s number one company to go to. We’re trying to build a brand that people can rely on and trust.”
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PHOTO PROVIDED
Outdoor lighting is one of Nelson Landscaping’s specialties.
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At Home in Edmond Spring 2019
Proudly Overbuilt HOMES BY TABER OFFERS QUALITY, ENERGY EFFICIENT HOMES IN EDMOND PHOTO PROVIDED
“Quartz countertops are popular choices, as are wood and simulated wood tiles, along with gold-tone accents that have made a recent comeback.” By Mallery Nagle Over the last 18 years, Taber LeBlanc estimates he has built 2,500 homes around the metro. Many of those homes are in his native Edmond. “I know Edmond well,” said the owner and president of Homes by Taber. “I started (my business) in Edmond.” So it is only fitting that his newest project is in his hometown. Construction in the Delmer Lakes addition, named as a tribute to his late father-in-law, will begin at Covell and Western this spring. John Delmer Alexander, LeBlanc explained, helped him get his start in the home construction business. Homes in Delmer Lakes will be 1,800-2,500 square feet, offer Edmond Public Schools and boast what LeBlanc called “unbelievable lake lots.” Homes in this newest addition will feature three-car garages and outdoor living spaces. “Outdoor living is huge,” LeBlanc said. The homes will come equipped with outdoor cable capabilities for outside television viewing. Energy efficiency is a hallmark of LeBlanc’s homes. “We are the most energy efficient builder in the Oklahoma City area,” he contended, noting the lower utility bills speak for themselves. The tankless water heaters that come standard in his homes are also energy and cost savers. He estimates
that people save $400 in energy costs per year, not to mention the endless supply of hot water tankless systems offer. In addition, the homes’ full home air filtration systems help combat allergies and other indoor pollutants. Storm shelters are also standard features at Homes by Taber. “We have a huge influx of new residents (in the metro) from Texas and California,” LeBlanc explained. “People from out of state think tornadoes when they think of Oklahoma, so that’s all included.” LeBlanc said his homes are “proudly overbuilt.” “With the volume we build, we can take that purchasing power and give it back to the client,” he said. “We put the savings
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LeBlanc says his homes are “proudly overbuilt.”
A Publication of Edmond Life & Leisure back into the product, creating value for the customer. That’s our business philosophy.” This philosophy allows him to offer what he called “hot trends” at cool prices. He noted quartz countertops are popular choices, as are wood and simulated wood tiles, along with gold-tone accents that have made a recent comeback. Another Edmond area neighborhood where LeBlanc is building is Ironstone at 164th and Portland. This neighborhood is made up of 1,500-1,700 square foot homes that are “selling like crazy,” he said. East of I-35, LeBlanc is working in Woodland Park, near Covell and Douglass. These homes are in the 1,800-2,800 square foot range, and the addition features a community center with a swimming pool complex. House hunters in search of a larger home will find TimberCrest, north and east of Covell and Air Depot, with houses ranging from 2,000 square feet to just over 3,000 square feet. LeBlanc also takes pride in his Taber Cares philanthropy. He estimates that the company donated about $90,000 to local charities and employees provided 1,200 volunteer hours around town last year. “We want to do good for the environment,” he said. “If it’s not good for the community, it’s not good for us.” For more information, visit www.homesbytaber.com or call (405) NEW-HOMES.
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Energy efficiency is a hallmark of LeBlanc’s homes.
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At Home in Edmond Spring 2019
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Bailey Griffith (left) and Elizabeth Tucker of Homes by Taber.
On Trend!
Q&A WITH HOMES BY TABER’S DESIGN TEAM We asked the design team at Homes by Taber, Elizabeth Tucker and Bailey Griffith, some questions about current design trends and the Homes by Taber experience. Here are their answers. By Rose Drebes What is your background in interior design --- education, experience, etc. Why did you want to get into this? Homes by Taber has a design team comprised of two in-house interior designers to serve customers, Elizabeth Tucker and Bailey Griffith. Each of them has a Bachelor of Science degree in Interior Design from Oklahoma State University. Elizabeth and Bailey have each worked with hundreds of Homes by Taber buyers to help them select the perfect finishes, colors, and details for their home. We have a combined 8 years of interior design experience in residential design, as well as commercial design!
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Many homeowners are painting their islands an accent color. Some are muted and some are fun pops of color that match their personalities. What are the trends today in interior design colors, style, etc.? Today’s design trends are definitely becoming more neutral as well as personal. We are seeing quite a bit of wood tones and textures with white quartz counter tops and straight lines. This is commonly described as “transitional” style, where modern meets traditional. We will continue
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to see “Modern Farmhouse” as a popular design theme, especially here in Oklahoma. We are seeing a great trend of homeowners painting their islands an accent color, some muted and some with fun pops of color that match their personalities. Even in a brand-new home, paint is something that can always be changed down the road, so people are less afraid to commit to pops of color through accented paint. Navy blue, emerald green, and various shades of gray are the colors we see homeowners lean towards the most for their kitchen islands. Brass and matte black hardware accents throughout, but primarily in the kitchen areas, are really trending with our homeowners. People are choosing to incorporate more personal items as décor such as trinkets from various travels, beautiful antique furniture passed down through generations, and items that may not be considered ‘trendy,’ but are meaningful to the homeowner. At Homes by Taber, what design services do you offer? What is your process for working with the customer? The Homes by Taber design team offers interior design services to each customer who purchases a Homes by Taber home, whether they are building with us from the ground up, or buying the home when it is halfway complete and they’re still able to make various style selections. continued on Page 36
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At Home in Edmond Spring 2019
Design
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Buyers are greeted at the Design Center and walked through the entire process of selecting each tile, paint color, style of doors, counter tops and more – all while in a non-pressured environment! Some design centers are considered to be “upgrade centers,” but that is not the case here. We include so much in our homes that we are there to guide them to the best choices for their style without having to increase their costs.
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Today’s design trends are definitely becoming more neutral, as well as personal. How can you help someone like me, who has no clue about design? Believe it or not, most people don’t classify themselves as designers. When our Homes by Taber customers come in for their Selection Meeting with us, our job is to guide them and educate them! We understand that not everyone will have a background in selecting paint colors, tile options, or lighting fixtures. We consistently evaluate our processes to make it all as simple as possible! We know for some, it can be overwhelming to design a home, especially for first time home owners. It is so helpful for someone with no background in design to get inspiration by checking out current homes on the market, taking photos of things they might be interested in, or browsing magazines or Pinterest prior to meeting with a us! From that information, we are able to help you figure out your style, even if you may not know what that looks like just yet! If we have inspiration to go on, we can wrap up your selections in a big red bow for you. Guiding our customers through this process is something we get to do every day, so by the time they leave, they’ll feel like a designer too! We want everyone to know that they can achieve a magazine cover worthy home while being true to their personal style.
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The Veraden:
A Better Way of Life
SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITY OFFERS UNIQUE EXPERIENCES PHOTO BY DEANNE YORK
A view of the dining room at The Veraden. Nine helpers line up and eagerly await instructions in the volunteer sign-in area of the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma. A few depend on assistive devices like walkers and canes as they await details about the day’s work. Dressed in comfortable work clothes and closed-toed shoes, they receive their instructions. Volunteer Center Administrative Coordinator Whitney Ballew, thanks The Veraden Senior Living members for their time and tells them that they will be packing meals for the Food for Kids Backpack Program. The group learns to pack portions of food by nutritional value and weight into bags. The bags are distributed by the food bank to students at risk of being chronically hungry during schoolyear weekends. “No child should ever go hungry,” said Nella Jean B. community volunteer and a resident at The Veraden Senior Living. “If I have an opportunity to help. I would love to help a child any chance I can.” Other days, food bank volunteers are assigned to box and label foods so that it is prepped and ready for distribution. Recently, they were a part of boxing non-perishable food going to federal workers affected by the government shut-downs. “The reason I enjoy volunteering is that I find it’s import-
ant for the Edmond community,” said Jack B., a resident at The Veraden Senior Living. “That’s what communities are all about. People need to help each other.” continued on Page 38
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The Veraden Senior Living residents (left to right) Jack B, Warren G., Jerry B., Pat M. Candy E., Alice M. volunteer at the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma to pack meals for students.
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At Home in Edmond Spring 2019
The Veraden
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And help they do. Other days The Veraden community bus transports choir members to serenade local pre-school and elementary students and area memory care communities. The Veraden Senior Living Lifestyle Director, Steven Dixon, says these intergenerational activities do more than benefit the local community, they build connections and teach the value of seniors. Another added benefit is that it tends to help more introverted residents bloom socially and inspires greater interactions. Dixon, a University of Central Oklahoma graduate with a Bachelors in Kinesiology and a certified personal trainer, points to other activities at the community like daily exercise classes to improve strength, flexibility and balance. There are other more informal, yet invaluable, activities.
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The Veraden Senior Living resident volunteers help students from Peace Lutheran Pre-school to read and craft. Adult volunteers are (left to right) Kay B., Charles H., Jack B. On Tuesdays, community ladies come together for a Tuesday tea complete with fancy attire and hats, tea and chef-prepared hors d’oeuvres. Correspondingly, male residents have their own Buddy Beer Brew events in The Veraden’s pub and lounge complete with sports, popcorn and conversation. “It’s really a chance for our residents to come together, talk, commiserate and build a sense of camaraderie,” Dixon says. “Anyone you meet here, resident or associate, says it feels like home. Even first-time visitors, those taking a tour or new residents say that everyone is so warm and welcoming and makes you feel like you are a part of the community, immediately. No one sits alone, no one feels alone. All associates know everybody by name. We really care about each other deeply.” The Veraden’s welcoming community atmosphere is not outshined by its resident accommodations which include
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The Veraden Senior Living resident volunteer choir members bring the holiday cheer with carols. Members include (left to right) Ed B., Alta K, Lissie T., Mr. Dixon, Barbara H., Edna R., Dane C., Freda J., Ellen H., Ruth S., Kay D., Ann P. perform songs for fellow The Veraden residents. independent living, assisted living and memory care apartments to meet all needs. Contemporary amenities such as a fitness center, outdoor pool, theater and state-of-the-art underground tornado shelter offer residents an unparalleled retirement experience. In addition to a luxurious design, the community has sought-after features including versatile floor plans with ample closet space, chef-prepared cuisine with restaurant-style dining and engaging social outings. Best of all, it’s a maintenance-free and a carefree retirement lifestyle. Residents who require care in The Veraden’s assisted living and memory care communities can expect superior support from professionally-trained associates delivering customized levels of care through medication manage-
PHOTO BY DEANNE YORK
The Veraden has many amenities such as a fitness center, heated outdoor pool, theater and state of the art underground tornado shelter.
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The Veraden Senior Living resident volunteers (front row, left to right) Jerry B., Pat M., Dick H., Owen B., Joyce W., Ed H., Lissie T., Ron S., Margaret M. (back row) Kelsey Gaskins, await their assignment at the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma.
ment, full-time nursing and a 24-hour emergency response system. The Veraden uses Sagora’s innovative Pathways Memory Care program, which specializes in a resident-centered approach to maximize freedom of choice and maintain dignity at every stage of dementia. Located at 2709 E. Danforth Rd. Edmond, OK 73034, The Veraden offers upscale retirement options to seniors 55 years old and up. Tours and a complimentary lunch are available for those interested in seeing the community. For more information about the community, call The Veraden at 405-359-1230 or visit www.veradenlife.com
About Sagora Senior Living Sagora Senior Living, based in Fort Worth, Texas, currently operates 39 retirement communities in five states, each with a unique focus on retirement lifestyle choices including independent living, assisted living, respite and memory care. The company’s mission is to serve and celebrate the wisdom of their residents and family members by enriching their lives with a “Resident First” philosophy developed locally within each community. For more information about Sagora Senior Living, visit www.Sagora.com.
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At Home in Edmond Spring 2019
The Perfect Picnic LOCAL EXPERTS DISH ON WAYS TO MAKE YOUR NEXT PICNIC A HIT
By Erika Williams Birds are chirping, flowers are blooming, and the sun is shining. Spring is finally here. And, what better way to celebrate the return of warm weather than by going outside and having a picnic? If you want to plan the perfect spring picnic, Edmond’s local businesses have you covered. Gourmet Gallery, located at 1532 S. Blvd., has several tasty options that will help you create the best picnic possible. Gourmet Gallery co-owner Cindy Utecht said, “We’ve got great summer sausage. We have some non-perishable cheeses and crackers. We have a wide variety of things that are really easy. They’re open and eat snack items.” Co-owner Janet McDonald added, “We’ve got popcorn, cookies, candies, sweets, chips and salsa.” For those who want to take their picnic to the next level, Cindy says the store offers products that will help you do that too. “It doesn’t have to just be a sandwich or fried chicken. We’ve got great sauces if someone wanted to make pulled pork in a crock pot ahead of time they could do that,” said Cindy. Many of the items at Gourmet Gallery don’t need to be refrigerated until after they’ve been opened, which helps
with transportation. “You always need a chiller for your beverages, so after you open something, you can stash it away in there if you have any left over,” said Janet. Gourmet Gallery offers products at every price range so that you can plan anything from a small picnic for two to a large family outing.
PHOTO BY ERIKA WILLIAMS
Many of the items at Gourmet Gallery don’t need to be refrigerated, which helps with transportation.
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you see being consumed in warm weather. They’re very refreshing. They go with a wide variety of foods.” Edmond Wine Shop, located at 1520 S. Boulevard, has plenty of different wines to offer. Vance says that trying new wines to find what you like is the best way to choose a wine for your picnic. “Don’t be afraid to experiment. There are a whole variety of wines out there that are great for warm weather,” said Vance. “The lighter reds work better, generally speaking. Red zinfandels go terrifically with hamburgers for example.”
PHOTO BY ERIKA WILLIAMS
“Dry rosés are the perfect picnic wines,” says Vance Gregory of Edmond Wine Shop. “The flavors are really versatile.” Adding a chilled wine to your picnic spread is another way to enhance the outdoor experience. Drinking a nice glass of wine can be a great way to refresh and unwind after enjoying a picnic under the sun. Vance Gregory, owner of Edmond Wine Shop, believes rosé is best type of wine for a picnic. “Dry rosés are the perfect picnic wines,” said Vance. “The flavors are really versatile. If you go to Europe, especially the south of Europe, France or Spain, those are the wines
Whether you’re planning an intimate picnic for two or a large family outing, you don’t have to look far for the perfect items to make your adventure a success! When it comes to keeping your wine cold, Vance suggests bringing an ice bucket or a cooler along. “The main issue is trying to keep it cool, and most white wines, you don’t want them to get too warm,” said Vance “There are easy ways to get around that. You could stick it in an ice chest, that’s the easiest thing.” Another thing Vance suggested is buying plastic wine glasses so you don’t have to worry about glass breaking outside. This is a simple step that you can take to eliminate a potential source of stress during your picnic. These tips are great for any picnic, whether it’s a large outdoor lunch for several people, or an intimate picnic with a loved one. Enjoy the sunny skies, the great outdoors, and your perfect picnic spread.
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At Home in Edmond Spring 2019
Oklahoma Hiking
Oklahoma has some fantastic trails for beginning hikers and enthusiasts alike. Here are just a couple of options among the many our beautiful state has to offer.
PHOTOS BY CHRIS THOMAS
The Trails at St. Crispin’s near Seminole, Oklahoma has a lot to offer for mountain bikers and hikers with over nine miles of trails. Find out more on their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/TrailsAtStCrispins.
PHOTOS BY DEANNE YORK
A little closer to home is the Arcadia Lake Multiple-Use Trail, which is suitable for use by mountain bikers, hikers, cross-country runners, nature walkers and even families. Above center, Ella and Hazel York enjoy a hike on a favorable winter day. See page 44 for tips on hiking with children.
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Hiking:
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At Home in Edmond Spring 2019
A Family Affair
LOCAL EXPERT OFFERS TIPS FOR BRINGING THE LITTLE ONES ALONG By Erika Williams Hiking is a fun way for the whole family to get some exercise while enjoying the wonderful springtime weather. It isn’t just an activity for adults and older kids. With a little extra preparation, those with younger children and toddlers can enjoy the benefits of hiking. Tinkergarten instructor LoriAnn Gregory suggests focusing less on the distance of the hike and more on enjoying nature when hiking with little ones. “I think when people ask me about taking their kids on a hike, one of my first responses is to reframe as kind of a meander just because endurance can be a little lower for the littles ones in some ways,” said LoriAnn. “They may hike for a little bit, and then find a really cool leaf and want to stop and look at it for a little bit. You can bring a little cheap plastic magnifying glass and pull it out for them to use. That can help extend their overall endurance because it helps them take really frequent breaks.” Tinkergarten is an outdoor program at Dolese Park in Oklahoma City that provides play based activities for children ages 18-months to 8-years-old. Their instructors aim to provide healthy, fun, and engaging experiences. While endurance may be little lower for kids, packing drinks, snacks, and extra layers of clothing can ensure
that kids don’t tire out even earlier. LoriAnn suggests choosing hiking trails that are about a quarter-mile for toddlers and a half-mile for children ages four to six. For those concerned about their children losing interest during the hike, LoriAnn says that letting kids help with the preparation is a great way to create excitement ahead of time. “Having the kids involved in the planning, like letting them find the trail map, is really big. If they’re too young to do that, really hype it up. Tell them you’re going on a big adventure,” said LoriAnn. She also says that incorporating a game of pretend can make the hike a little more interesting. Said LoriAnn, “Once for a Tinkergarten, we went on a little hike. The kids brought bandanas, and we tucked them in their waistbands. So they weren’t just kids going on a hike, they were squirrels going on a hunt.” LoriAnn said that the parents loved this idea, and it helped their children remain interested and motivated throughout the hike. Another way to help with focus during a hike is to bring a pair of binoculars. LoriAnn says that for her kids, even pretend binoculars do the trick. “I duct taped two toilet paper rolls together, of course, that’s not magnifying anything, but somehow
A Publication of Edmond Life & Leisure it focuses their attention. It’s kind of like veering them in. They’ll look at one thing instead of all the things,” said LoriAnn. If you have never been hiking before, it can seem a little intimidating, especially if you are bringing kids along. LoriAnn suggests first-time hikers go with another family. “I do think it’s helpful if a family has never taken kids on hikes before, or even if they have, to go with another family who has experience hiking,” said LoriAnn. “Kids seem to do better if they have a friend along. One kid may be tired and want to go home, but the other kid is having fun and playing pretend, so that can help with motivation.” LoriAnn added that many times parents on the hike can help out by sharing supplies along the way. “If your kid picks up a wad of mud right before lunch, and you don’t have wet wipes, maybe another person will,” said LoriAnn. Hiking is a great way to have fun without the distraction of electronics. LoriAnn believes giving kids regular outdoor time is a great way to keep them healthy and happy. “The outdoors are really sensory stimulating. You hear leaves crunching and birds chirping. You feel the wind on your skin. It’s sensory stimulating in a calming way,” said LoriAnn. “It’s healthy for kids to move their bodies, and hikes are a great way to let them do that.”
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Family hikes are a great way for kids to move their bodies and reduce screen time.
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At Home in Edmond Spring 2019
Advertiser ‘s Index
Amini’s Galleria.................................................................3 Avenge Pest Control........................................................18 Bison Creek Clothing.......................................................26 Brent Gibson Classic Home Design...................................7 Budget Blinds..................................................................30 Citizens Bank of Edmond..................................................4 City of Edmond Household Hazardous Waste................41 City of Edmond Water Conservation..............................43 Clothes Mentor...............................................................27 Cross Timbers.................................................................. 11 Danny Marx – Keller Williams Realty..............................29 Don’s Floor Gallery.........................................................13 Edmond Convention & Visitors Bureau............................36 Edmond Electric..............................................................47 Edmond Family Counseling.............................................39 Edmond Life TV..............................................................34 Edmond Optical Shop.....................................................29 Edmond Parks & Recreation............................................35 Fashion Boutique.............................................................26
Fillmore/Chambers Design Group.....................................2 Forrester Brothers Roofing..............................................15 Framin’ Gallery................................................................27 Garage Innovations.........................................................45 Gary Baccus – State Farm...............................................23 Integris Health Edmond...................................................31 J.C. Swanson’s Fireplace & Patio Shop............................33 Ken Chambers Design/Build............................................19 Matthews Funeral Home.................................................22 Neal McGee Homes........................................... 18, 30, 39 Prime Bank......................................................................22 RCB Bank........................................................................17 Reid Printing...................................................................41 Royal Ironworks...............................................................23 Scott Coleman Homes......................................................5 Shop Edmond..................................................................21 TLC Garden Center...........................................................9 The Veraden Senior Living...............................................48
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At Home in Edmond Spring 2019