Love is all around us
When someone thinks of February, they might think of Valentine’s Day, which has been commercialized to roses, chocolates and greeting cards.
I don’t know about you, but I think love encompasses so much more than that.
Showing love also means being there for a friend, having a special date with your child, taking a family member out for a cozy meal or charitably giving back to your community.
It means being present and opening your heart.
That is what we strive to do a Lakeside City Lifestyle–we hope to show that there is love all around us, manifesting in different ways through our residents and local businesses.
For our Love Local issue, we learned how the owners of Guilia’s Café, Anthony and Guilia, use their love for each other to nourish the town they care about through delicious comfort food.
The lawyers and staff at Hayes, Berry, White, and Vanzant strive to make their own love stories through family law, facilitating the legal process needed for child adoptions and giving back in special ways to the area.
Self love is just as important as giving love, especially when it comes to living as your authentic self. Kimberly Dent, the co-owner of The Pin Cushion, aims to empower women with her all-female staff through creative piercings and body expressions.
Of course, we have to celebrate the beauty of starting a marriage by showcasing one of the most gorgeous wedding venues in North Texas, Knotting Hill Place, which is located in the heart of Little Elm.
As we navigate the month of love, our hearts can’t help but be drawn to the beauty in our community.
So this February, let’s celebrate local love and the love of our locals! Here’s to love, happiness and laughter, along with a deep appreciation for everything that makes Lakeside the place we call home.
ALEXIS JACKSON, PUBLISHER @LAKESIDECITYLIFESTYLE
February 2025
PUBLISHER
Alexis Jackson | alexis.jackson@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Gabrielle Bailey | gabrielle.bailey@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Shannon Spake | shannon.spake@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Jason Laumer | jason.laumer@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Kellie Krevosky, Katelyn Briscoe
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Madison Laumer, Amber McMahan, Savanna Romano, Nicole Wierick
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
Now Selling Spiritas Ranch
Love, Resilience and Culinary Dreams
Get
Hometown Hidden Gem Take
5 - 9 P . M .
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Bojangles surprised Little Elm ISD teacher Morgan Broussard with $1,000 to use toward classroom supplies. 2: Meineke Car Care in Little Elm recently celebrated its 10th anniversary. 3: Brandon Moon with TD Pines Advisors spoke with small business owners at Jimmy's Big Burgers. 4: Volunteers came out to Unity Park to plant trees as part of the reforestation project. 5: The Aubrey Fire Department recently welcomed eight new recruits. 6: The Farmers Market was in full swing and offered local products like kettle corn. 7: The Aesthetics Society in Aubrey has opened its doors and is accepting new clients.
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AUBREY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
THE LAKEFRONT AT LITTLE ELM
HIGHLAND VILLAGE PARKS AND RECREATION
LITTLE ELM CHAMBER OF
LITTLE ELM CHAMBER
Growing Sprouts Photography
Made to bring the imaginations of children to life, Growing Sprouts
Photography focuses on capturing the magic in every child’s laugh, twirl and special moment.
As a mom herself, owner Amber McMahan understands that moments with your little ones are fleeting, so allow their wildest dreams to come to life at her innovative studio.
by Amber McMahan
Photography
Conspiracy Ink Tattoo
Whether a client is looking to get their first tattoo or add to their collection, Conspiracy Ink Tattoo has the ability to bring that creative vision to life.
Owner Dennis Dent and his team of artists offer free consultations and educate clients on the tattooing process. They are experts in color, black and grey, old-school designs or modern techniques and everything in between.
Scan to read more
Dream Chiropractic
Using neurologically-based chiropractic care, Dr. Hyun Choi and his staff help patients with gentle and specific chiropractic care to ensure restoration to a client’s nervous system function.
Dr. Choi works with pregnant women, children, those recovering from injuries and people who want a simple spinal alignment. Each consultation and adjustment is based on the individual’s need.
Book a consultation at www. dreamchiropractictx.com
Photography by Dream Chiropractic
Photography by Amber McMahan
Love, Resilience and Culinary Dreams
ARTICLE BY SHANNON SPAKE
PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMBER MCMAHAN
Get lost in the love story that sparked Guilia's Café
What makes Giulia’s Café in Aubrey such a culinary gem? Is it the fusion of high-end cuisine, personalized care and exceptional service? Or perhaps it’s the warmth of a small-town café that feels like home for anyone who walks in the door.
More than just a dining spot, Giulia’s Café tells a story of love, determination and the pursuit of a shared dream. Owned and operated by Anthony and Giulia Porcaro, this beloved establishment stands as a testament to their passion for exceptional food, impeccable service, and resilience in the face of challenges.
Anthony’s journey to Giulia’s Café began in some of Dallas-Fort Worth’s finest steakhouses. Under the mentorship of esteemed restaurateurs Miss Dee Lincoln, known as “The Queen of Steak,” and Phil Romano, Anthony honed his craft and mastered the art of creating memorable dining experiences.
“I had the extreme fortune to learn from the best,” Anthony shared. “Those experiences and years in the service industry taught me invaluable lessons. I’m so grateful.”
Giulia’s roots in the restaurant business run deep, as well. Raised by Italian immigrant parents who owned dining establishments in Florida, Nevada and Texas, she learned the industry’s intricacies from an early age. Though determined to forge her own path, life consistently brought her back to the family business.
“As the eldest sibling, I stepped into a caretaker role early,” Giulia explained. “Since Mom and Dad were busy running the restaurants, I became responsible for my siblings—getting them to school, appointments, and wherever else they needed to be. It wasn’t always easy, but it shaped who I am today.”
Reflecting on her upbringing, Giulia expressed gratitude for her father’s strict but loving approach.
CONTINUED >
“At first, I saw him as a supportive friend. But over time, I realized there was more to our connection.”
“Growing up, Dad wasn’t my friend; he was my father and my boss,” she said. “Now, we’re the best of friends, and I appreciate the values he instilled in me.”
In early 2020, just before the COVID-19 pandemic, fate brought Anthony and Giulia together. Anthony, who was still working with Lincoln, was encouraged to interview Guilia for a position.
“The moment I saw her, I knew I wanted to marry her,” Anthony recalled. Keeping his feelings to himself, the two developed a close friendship.
As the pandemic upended the restaurant industry, Anthony and Giulia adapted by shifting to takeout and family-style meals, ensuring their loyal patrons could still enjoy their favorite dishes. The long hours and shared challenges brought
them closer, with Anthony inviting Giulia to breakfast meetings, shared lunches and, eventually, dinners. “At first, I saw him as a supportive friend,” Giulia admitted with a smile. “But over time, I realized there was more to our connection.”
Their blossoming relationship endured the demanding nature of the hospitality industry.
“Nights and weekends aren’t your own,” Anthony explained. “But we made it work, spending long shifts together and cherishing our rare days off.”
Giulia added, “I genuinely enjoy his company—he makes me laugh, and time just flies by when we’re together.”
When it came time to take the next step, the couple opted for a practical and intimate approach. After catering countless weddings for others, they chose a small ceremony at the
“Friends tease me, asking how I can work and live with my wife 24/7. But I wouldn’t have it any other way.
We’re a team.”
justice of the peace. Since they were married during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, both of their families cheered them on from afar. Lincoln, Anthony’s mentor, proudly stood as their witness.
Determined to break free from the traditional restaurateur’s grueling schedule, the couple envisioned opening a café that worked on their terms. Giulia’s Café quickly became a cherished spot in Aubrey, celebrated for its fine dining, cozy ambiance and dedication to quality and community. Anthony and Giulia’s commitment extends to their staff, who embody the values of respect, teamwork and exceptional service.
Anthony and Giulia’s mutual admiration shines through in their descriptions of one another.
Giulia calls Anthony “determined, selfless, the hardest-working person I’ve ever met, and funny—being a comedian is his #1 job.” Anthony describes Giulia as “genuine, disciplined, compassionate and the most special person I’ve encountered in this life.”
During the holiday season, the couple catered several private events—many scheduled at the last minute—on top of their long days at the café.
“We’re blessed to have an amazing staff who help us pull off these busy schedules,” Giulia said.
Anthony added, “Some friends tease me, asking how I can work and live with my wife 24/7. But I wouldn’t have it any other way. We’re a team, and we rely on each other to get the job done.”
Giulia’s Café is more than a business: it’s a labor of love. For Anthony and Giulia, it’s a place to share their passion for food and hospitality while carving out time to enjoy life together.
Their story is one of perseverance, love and the joy of creating something meaningful for their community; a dream made possible by teamwork, dedication and an unyielding belief in one another.
Love Your Local Waterways
Protect our Wastewater Systems, Creeks & Lakes by Practicing Proper Disposal
When you love where you live, you take steps to protect it Small choices in your home can make a big difference for our local waterways Keep our wastewater systems flowing and our creeks and lakes clean by following these tips:
Dispose of Grease Properly: Wipe grease out of pans with a paper towel before washing Never pour it down the drain
Avoid Flushing Wipes: Even "flushable" wipes clog pipes and harm wastewater systems
Keep Chemicals Out of Drains: Dispose of paint, medication, and household chemicals safely never down sinks or toilets By defending your drains, you help preserve the
HOM E T OWN HIDDEN GEM
TAKE A LOOK AT KNOTTING HILL PLACE, ONE OF THE COMMUNITY'S BEST-KEPT SECRETS
ARTICLE BY GABRIELLE BAILEY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MADISON LAUMER
Where love starts
Knotting Hill Place is where many beautiful love stories are cemented. A luxurious events venue in the heart of Little Elm, it serves as a romantic wedding venue
Welcome In
The foyer is showcased with a grand, curving staircase with glittering chandeliers hanging from the ceiling.
CONTINUED >
Say I Do
The grand space has several places to exchange vows, including a spacious and light-filled cathedral that provides a picturesque backdrop.
Here Comes the Bride
The bridal suite boasts of salon-style chairs set up at a make up station, fulllength mirrors and a comfortable couch overlooking the grounds, a perfect place for the bridal party to get ready.
CONTINUED >
Garden Views
Another spot where the wedding couple can say "I do" is on the beautifully manicured grounds that have gorgeous gardens, tranquil water features and plenty of space for entertaining guests.
Outdoor Romance
A worldly gazebo is another idyllic spot for wedding photographs, an intimate ceremony or place to sit and chat during the reception.
From left to right: Kristen Bode, Brian Tackett, Colby Berry
LAW FIRM HAYES, BERRY, WHITE, AND VANZANT AIDS MANY ORGANIZATIONS TO MAKE LIVES BETTER
Whether you are new to the area, or you’ve been here for a while, you have likely heard of family law firm Hayes, Berry, White, and Vanzant. Even if you never require their services, having a group like theirs in your corner is a blessing.
We spoke with one of the partners, Brian Tackett, to learn more about how Hayes, Berry, White, and Vanzant “love locally” and give back to the community.
ARTICLE BY KELLIE KREVOSKY PHOTOGRAPHY BY SAVANNA ROMANO
Hayes, Berry, White, and Vanzant partner Brian Tackett
Tackett is not simply one of the several lawyers on the team, he is the head of the family law section of the firm. Hayes, Berry, White, and Vanzant operate out of three offices in the area, with the Denton office being their flagship location.
For the past 40 years, they have provided unmatched family law services to the community. The firm successfully grew to what it is today with dozens of attorneys all focused on the same goal: to provide expert, quality legal services to those in need.
“We are family law attorneys, and we have the unique opportunity to make lives better during a difficult time,” Tackett said about their services.
Family law often has negative connotations, but this team is working to break those preconceived notions. Tackett and others on the team often help or meet with those who are struggling with divorce, family services, or loss, all of which can be extremely hard or painful experiences.
Serving their community through family law services is only one part of how the firm gives back to their community. When asked about a memorable moment of being charitable, Tackett had one specific, powerful example. The law firm was no different when most of the world shut down in 2020. The firm closed its doors for a few weeks while attorneys worked from home.
“WE HAVE THE UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY TO MAKE LIVES BETTER."
Though they weren’t closed for long, they did do their best to observe many of the new regulations which impacted a favorite pastime for many of the lawyers–lunch. Tackett explained that they would order food for twenty to thirty people from local restaurants he knew were struggling to stay afloat during that time.
What stood out to him the most was the response he would receive from those business owners. He explained that hearing their firsthand feedback provided a different perspective on the meaning of being charitable. The whole experience, Tackett found, was a true testament to the power of loving locally.
Along with Tackett, the firm has twelve other attorneys, all of whom are involved in organizations with charitable components. The team has participated in back-to-school drives, put together love packs for National Love Our Children Day, and more.
Thanksgiving of 2024, they were proud to be sponsors for the Denton County Bar Association’s event for National Adoption Day, a day dedicated to helping finalize the paperwork for the adoption of children.
Another reason the firm values community involvement is to strengthen and maintain relationships. Hayes, Berry, White, and Vanzant pride themselves on connecting and networking with several businesses in the
community. Being charitable offers a chance to continue developing those relationships while participating in a worthy cause.
“Being charitable means we can choose to participate in the organizations that are important to us,” Tackett said, and for him, that means choosing programs that are family and kid-oriented.
It’s not hard to see why Hayes, Berry, White, and Vanzant are so loved by the community. This is a local institution that represents comfort and safety, no matter why or how you have heard of them.
To learn more about the law firm, visit their website at www.hbwvlaw.com or give them a call at 940-230-2386.
MEET KIMBERLY DENT
ARTICLE BY KATELYN BRISCOE
PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICOLE WIERICK
Where pink gothic princess meets the country town feel, The Pin Cushion has been bringing professional body piercing by an all-female staff to Celina for the past two years. Co-owner Kimberly Dent said that since opening their shop on July 7, 2022, her love for Celina has only grown.
Just like her feelings about Celina, Kimberly's love of piercing and tattooing keeps expanding. She got her start as a receptionist at a tattoo parlor in 2006 and didn't look back.
“I fell in love with the industry and how it was ever-evolving and constantly changing,” she said.
“Then I had my daughter, and she was five and asked for her ear lobes to be pierced. I didn't feel comfortable taking her to the traditional tattoo shop.”
So, Kimberly pierced them herself. From there, she and her husband, tattoo artist Dennis Dent, got the idea to start their own shop.
“I started the Pin Cushion primarily to have a safe space for my daughter and her friends,” Kimberly said.
Owner of Celina's Body Piercing 'Holey' Grail
“I was a Girl Scout leader at the time, and it was easy for the moms to feel comfortable to bring their daughters to come in and get their ears pierced. That's how it all kind of started and just kind of evolved from there.”
Now, Kimberly and Dennis own two tattoo shops and two body piercing studios together, with tattoos being his specialty and body piercing being hers.
“I've had little girls that have started coming to me when they were six to get their earlobes pierced, and I still see them to this day,” she said. “I build really solid relationships and friendships with people over the years, and so do all of my girls.”
The Pin Cushion is a body piercing studio that offers a professional, clean and comfortable setting for clients of all ages.
Kimberly and her staff only use sterilized needles for piercings instead of a piercing gun for multiple reasons - it's safer, more sanitary and less traumatic on the skin, ensuring a faster healing process.
The Pin Cushion's piercing services include:
• Any kind of ear piercing
• Dermal anchors
• Naval Piercings
• Nose piercings
• Lip/mouth piercings
The body piercing shop has two locations in Frisco and Celina. The Celina store is located at 695 N. Preston Road Ste, 120.
For more information or to book an appointment with The Pin Cushion, call 972382-9511 or visit bodypiercingsfrisco.com
The Pin Cushion coowner Kimberly Dent
THE SCOTTSDALE LURE OF
The endless skies of blue are interrupted only by cacti rising majestically from the ground, arms reaching skyward, and palm trees, which are often adorned by lights that twinkle when the sun sets. There are vistas of open desert, rising mountains, and even the lush green of the locale’s many golf courses. And, of course, there are the vibrant shopping, dining, art, and event scenes, too.
Scottsdale is a city located in Metro Phoenix in Arizona, which as a whole is nicknamed “The Valley of the Sun” for its more than 330 days of sun each year—one of the reasons the area is a draw for visitors. With few rainy days, it’s easy to plan your daily activities without worry. Yes, though, the summer gets hot. But the rest of the year? Perfection.
Scottsdale is a mix of a resort destination, city, and suburbs, with more open desert the further north you venture. To the south is Downtown Scottsdale—also known as Old Town Scottsdale—which is a mix of old Southwestern charm
BY MICHELLE GLICKSMAN
(including the legendary cowboy saloon, Rusty Spur Saloon); modern eateries from famed chefs; lots of shopping at small boutiques and specialty shops; the Arts District , which is filled with art galleries; and even tasting rooms from Arizona wineries located along the famed Scottsdale Wine Trail
Nearby is Scottsdale Fashion Square , one of the nation’s premier shopping destinations. While you’ll find many usual retailers there, there are also more than 40 luxury brands, including Christian Louboutin, Bottega Veneta, and Louis Vuitton.
Heading north are open-air shopping destinations Scottsdale Quarter and Kierland Commons , which sit across the street from each other. Take the afternoon or evening to stroll through, exploring the shops, restaurants, and activity destinations such as the indoor mini-golf destination Puttshack . What else is there to see and do? Plenty.
FROM RELAXATION TO SHOPPING TO GOLF TO SIGHTSEEING, THIS DESTINATION HAS IT ALL
PLAY
Like golf? There are more than 200 golf courses in the Scottsdale area. Whether you’re a pro or just starting out, there is a course for you. One of the most popular in the area is the TPC Scottsdale as it is the locale of the WM Phoenix Open, the most-attended golf tournament in the world.
For most of the year, Scottsdale boasts warm temperatures, making spending a day splashing in a pool a perfect choice. Many local resorts have pool areas that feature fun extras such as water slides, lazy rivers, and even a cooled sand beach. And even if you’re not an on-site guest, you can often purchase a day pass to be on-site through ResortPass.com.
Of course, there’s also plenty of outdoor recreation in Scottsdale. Pinnacle Peak in North Scottsdale is a popular mountain to hike (as is the iconic Camelback Mountain, which is located in nearby Phoenix), and the Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt is a park and trail system spread over 11 miles. Kids love McCormickStillman Railroad Park , which boasts a small-scale train that circles the park and plenty of play areas.
A destination filled with numerous attractions is A rizona Boardwalk , a center that includes Butterfly Wonderland , OdySea Aquarium , Ripley’s Believe It or Not! , Museum of Illusions , and more.
CULTURE
The beauty of Scottsdale’s Sonoran Desert led famed architect, Frank Lloyd Wright (1867-1959), to build Taliesin West , his winter home and desert laboratory, in a mountainside in East Scottsdale. Today, there are daily tours of the UNESCO World Heritage site, and events are offered often.
However, Wright’s architecture isn’t the only art in the area. Beyond the Arts District in Downtown Scottsdale, there is public art all around the city, from sculptures to murals, so definitely keep your eyes open!
There are also museums such as Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West , a Smithsonian Affiliate, which showcases items from the Greater Western region, and the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art , affectionately known as SMoCA.
On Thursday evenings, there’s a free public ArtWalk in the Arts District, where galleries stay open later. Wander the streets and galleries, often against a backdrop of live music and even artist appearances.
DINING AND NIGHTLIFE
From mom-and-pop restaurants to those run by James Beard Award-winning chefs and celebrity chefs, Scottsdale has it all. There’s Luna by Giada , by famed chef and TV personality Giada de Laurentiis; Uchi by James Beard Award-winning chef Tyson Cole; FnB by James Beard Award-winning chef Charleen Badman; and The Americano, which is helmed by celebrity chef and TV personality Beau MacMillan. Other local favorites are chef Joey Maggiore’s new The Italiano; Postino, for bruschetta and wine; Ocean 44 for seafood; and Old Town Tortilla Factory—which is set in a historic 75-year-old adobe home—for Southwestern with a Mexican twist.
If you’re looking for a night out, Downtown Scottsdale has the biggest concentration of clubs and bars. The walkable area has Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row, El Hefe , Boondocks Patio & Grill , and many others.
If a more upscale lounge is your scene, check out the new Tell Your Friends speakeasy in North Scottsdale, located under The Americano restaurant.
EVENTS
Scottsdale is also known as a destination for events that draw attendees from around the world. Depending on your hobbies, time your visit to coincide with the one that interests you most. Golf lovers (and those who like to party) head to Scottsdale for the popular PGA tournament WM Phoenix Open , dubbed “The Greatest Show on Grass,” also includes concerts with wellknown musical acts. Auto enthusiasts flock here for Auto Week , which includes the famous Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction . In late February and through March, the MLB’s Spring Training takes over the Valley, with Scottsdale Stadium becoming the home of the San Francisco Giants. There’s showmanship at the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show and rivalry on the field at the Bentley Scottsdale Polo Classic , which draws players from around the world and features polo matches, a fashion show, parties, and more. And in 2025, Art Week , the next big event in the art world, debuts in Scottsdale.
NEARBY
While there’s so much to do, see, and experience in Scottsdale proper, there’s also much to see nearby. Make sure to experience the Musical Instrument Museum (affectionately known as the MIM), which is the world’s only global instrument museum. Desert Botanical Garden features an array of desert plants, and Phoenix Art Museum has an impressive collection of art. And, of course, the Phoenix Zoo is a perfect place for both kids and adults alike.
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
FEBRUARY 1ST
2025 HBCU College Panel & Fair
400 Lobo Lane | Little Elm | 9:00 AM
Join the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Omega Alpha Omega Chapter for its annual HBCU College Panel & Fair. The group will have participating HBCUs, along with several organizations, that will share scholarship opportunities and college planning tips. This event is free, but registration is recommended. Visit www.oao.clubexpress.com/content.aspx to sign up.
FEBRUARY 8TH
2025 Daddy Daughter Dance
Jerry R. Walker Middle School | 7:00 PM
Arrive on the Red Carpet for a magical night celebrating dads and their daughters. The theme is Shimmer & Shine: Dance into the Spotlight, so be sure to don the brightest metallic outfits and accessories. Tickets start at $25 per person and include access to a dessert bar and a swag bag. Register at www.business.littleelmchamber.com/events.
FEBRUARY 18TH
LE*NKS networking breakfast
Tender Smokehouse | 100 Hardwicke Lane | Little Elm | 8:00 AM
Join Little Elm small business owners at the LE*NKS Networking event! Enjoy coffee and a continental breakfast while making connections to help grow local businesses. This event is open to Chamber members and non members, so members are encouraged to bring a friend or two! Non-members can attend twice before they are required to join the Little Elm Chamber.
