Home: Where Stories Begin
March is here, bringing with it the promise of fresh starts, blooming landscapes, and the perfect opportunity to turn our attention inward—to the spaces we call home. In this special Home Issue of City Lifestyle, we invite you to explore the many ways our homes can inspire, nurture, and reflect our lives.
For many, the past few years have redefined what home means. It’s no longer just a place to rest our heads; it’s where we work, play, create, and connect. This month, we celebrate the art of transforming our living spaces into sanctuaries that balance both beauty and functionality.
This month, we are also honored to shine a spotlight on the Texas Trees Foundation, a local nonprofit serving as a catalyst in creating a new green legacy for North Texas. Through transformational, research-based plans, Texas Trees educates and mobilizes the public to activate the social, economic, environmental, and health benefits that trees and urban forestry provide for a better quality of life.
At City Lifestyle, we believe that your home is an extension of your story—a place where cherished memories are made and dreams take root. Whether you’re embarking on a full-scale renovation or simply adding a fresh bouquet to your dining table, this issue is here to inspire and guide you every step of the way.
Here’s to celebrating the spaces that ground us, energize us, and reflect who we are.
Warm Regards,
Are you on the association board for your subdivision? Do you have someone you would like to nominate for Student, Non-Profit or First Responder of the Month? Contact us for information on how you can be included in upcoming articles and share your events and ideas. We would love to partner with you to host our events in your neighborhood! Just give us a shout. We want to meet you.
ANGI
BURNS, PUBLISHER @ROCKWALLCITYLIFESTYLE
March 2025
PUBLISHER
Angi Burns | angi.burns@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Kathy Moreno | kathy.moreno@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Hang Le | hang.le@citylifestyle.com
SALES MANAGER
Brittany McCaffety | brittany.mccaffety@citylifestyle.com
STAFF WRITERS
Valerie Merrick, Averly Burns, Fatima Durrani, Beverly Moss, Kathy Moreno
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS
Dallas McNeal Photography, Adeline Merrick: Merrick Multimedia
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Valerie Merrick | valerie.merrick@citylifestyle.com
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 Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
Proverbs 3:5-6
city scene
WHERE
NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1 – 7: The Chamber 1000: Race to Success where Chamber members gathered for exciting camaraderie and competition! Incredible leaders who are deeply involved in making Rockwall County the best place to do business shared their stories and how the Chamber creates opportunities for growth, connection, and success.
Photography by Dallas McNeal Photography
business monthly
Congratulations, Truly Title, on Your Ribbon Cutting!
Truly Title is a full-service title agency in Rockwall County. The title and escrow professionals at Truly Title have years of experience in local real estate closing procedures, the inner workings of title insurance and the use of technology to streamline the process. You can rest assured that you are in the best hands when working with Truly Title. 25 Noble Ct., Heath, TX 75032
Welcome to the Chamber McClain’s RV!
At McClain’s RV SuperStores they have RVs for sale spanning acres for you to choose from, including new and used travel trailers and motorhomes. At their SuperStores, the goal is to serve you and bring you the best RVs for sale in Oklahoma and Texas. It is their priority to help you make an informed decision to leave the lot with the best RV for you. 2505 I-30 Frontage Rd., Rockwall, TX 75087
First Chamber Partner Luncheon of 2025!
It was great kick-off to 2025 this week with the first monthly partner meeting for the Rockwall Area Chamber of Commerce at Lakepointe Church! There was a fantastic turnout of members who heard insightful updates from incredible leaders, including the Board’s Past Chair, the new Board President (Lesli Y. Johnson, pictured), Chamber President and CEO, and key initiatives like Leadership Rockwall, Lemonade Day, the Annual Clay Shoot, the Ambassador Team, and Travel and Tourism.
Photography by Rockwall Chamber of Commerce
Photography by Rockwall Chamber of Commerce
Photography by Rockwall Chamber of Commerce
local experiences
DISCOVER LOCAL GEMS, CREATE MEMORIES AND EMBRACE AUTHENTIC COMMUNITY EXPERIENCES
ARTICLE BY KATHY MORENO
Whether you’re looking for unique statement pieces, stylish furniture, or small decor updates, each store provides a handpicked selection perfect for welcoming the warmth and freshness of spring into your home. This list guides you to the most charming and trendy local destinations to find everything you need to brighten up your space this season.
The Mint Julep | Fabulous collection of furniture, home décor, and custom florals. 1129 Ridge Rd, Rockwall, TX 75087
The Rustic Warehouse | Where exceptional quality meets contemporary design offering designer looks without the designer price tag. 1411 S Goliad St Rockwall, TX 75087
Rockwall Artisan Home | Curate a home that is warm and welcoming with so many beautiful home decor items to choose from. 447 E Interstate 30, Rockwall, TX 75087
The Kitschy Cupboard | A vast array of kitchen accessories and fabulous furnishings. 114 N. San Jacinto St, Rockwall, Texas 75087
Restoration Hardware | Restored, vintage and new finds plus unique gifts for your home. 939 E Interstate 30 Rockwall, TX 75087
THIS SPRING, REIMAGINE YOUR HOME WITH THE BEAUTY OF LONG LASTING STONE. FROM GRANITE FOR YOUR KITCHEN TO QUARTZ FOR YOUR BATHROOM, OUR MATERIALS ARE DESIGNED TO ENHANCE EVERY SPACE. WHETHER YOU’RE CREATING SOMETHING FRESH OR UPGRADING WHAT YOU LOVE, STONE OFFERS THE PERFECT BALANCE OF STYLE, FUNCTION, AND APPEAL.
Texas Trees Foundation Greening and Cooling Texas Since 1982
Non-Profit of the Month Sponsored by Artisan Masonry & Granite
There’s no denying that Texas summers are hot, and while most people seek shelter in the refreshing waters of a pool, one organization is working outside year-round to cool Texas down. The Texas Trees Foundation’s mission is to bring the community together to reduce the overall temperature of urban areas in Texas by improving our natural environment. Since 1982, the Foundation has planted more than 19,000 trees to benefit the North Texas area. The Foundation shows how communities, businesses, and cities can all work cooperatively to improve the natural environment, one tree at a time.
In 2023, “the hottest areas of Dallas measured an average high of 101°F and a low of nearly 80°F for five full months of the year,” explains the Foundation. Experiencing these high temperatures can wreak havoc on our physical and mental health, as the heat can often feel inescapable. Thankfully, the Foundation offers a simple solution. “Tree planting and preservation have been found to be three and a half times more effective at lowering temperatures than other cool material strategies,” explains Stephanie Butts, the Director of Communications and Engagement at the Foundation.
ARTICLE BY VALERIE MERRICK
PHOTOGRAPHY BY
ADELINE MERRICK: MERRICK MULIMEDIA
Planting trees helps our community by providing shade, reducing the “heat island” effect, and improving the mental well-being of residents. According to the Foundation, shaded surfaces can be 15 to 20 degrees cooler than unshaded surfaces at the hottest part of the day, offering a respite for animals and humans alike.
To ensure they make the most impact, the Foundation conducts studies to determine the best locations for their trees. “A huge part of what we do is research. We go into cities and study their urban forest to find where they are lacking trees, where there are large areas of heat, and how we can help them design streetscapes and urban developments in a way that benefits both the health of people and the health of trees,” explains Stephanie.
Stephanie reflects that, “It’s because of this intentional design, backed by research, that we have close to a 90% survival rate of our trees. Our trees last because we are very careful about where and how we plant.”
Local residents and groups are invited to join in by taking part in one of the Foundation’s tree plantings. “Volunteers are really encouraged to get their hands dirty and plant their tree,” stresses Stephanie. These plantings are fun community events filled with music, demonstrations by Foundation members, and a sense of fulfillment. “We provide all the equipment you need to plant trees, including gloves,” assures Stephanie, and participants will be, “taught by an urban forester about how to plant a tree properly.”
At tree plantings, Foundation staff members encourage volunteers to name their trees to help each volunteer feel a connection and a sense of pride in their part of making a difference. “Participating in a tree planting and seeing the
significant transformation that can occur in an area where there were previously no trees provides a sense of ownership for an area and a sense of belonging that I believe benefit all those who participate,” says Stephanie.
Whether it’s the city of Rockwall celebrating Arbor Day with a planting at City Hall in 2019, or a local family getting a tree donation for their yard, the Foundation proves that great things happen when we all work together. Stephanie reflects, “There’s something truly beautiful about coming together as a community and investing in an area’s natural environment by investing in and planting trees.” Team up with the Texas Trees Foundation and help make North Texas a cooler, greener place to live.
The Texas Trees Foundation invites you to join in and plant trees to help mitigate the urban heat island effect, provide environmental education to all ages and build green infrastructure throughout North Texas. Are you ready? Visit texastrees.org to get involved and learn more about the Texas Trees Foundation.
THE LURE OF OUTDOOR LIVING
How Texans Are Taking Outdoor Living Spaces to the Next Level
ARTICLE BY FATIMA DURRANI PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
WHAT’S HOT IN TEXAS, BESIDES THE WEATHER?
Outdoor living trends. Whether you’re cooking up a feast of spicy barbeque wings for football game night or hosting 20 kids for a neighborhood pool party, one thing most North Texans share is a love of entertaining. That often means having a functional yet gorgeous outdoor living space that captures the heart of the homeowner.
From eco-friendly materials in outdoor furniture to all-purpose patios with functional kitchens, built-in spaces are best when designed for both ease and luxury. No one knows this better than Casey Laughlin, owner of Texas Outdoor Oasis, who brings more than 20 years of experience to the Rockwall community in landscaping, irrigation, exterior construction, masonry, professional design, and pools.
“We’ve definitely seen an uptick in 2024. While our core focus remains new pool construction, remodels, outdoor living, and landscaping projects, we will continue to develop our pool leak detection and repair, as well as irrigation repair services.”
So, are you ready to harness your inner host or hostess? Maybe you are, but you’re overwhelmed by the numerous design choices or simply don’t know how to vet contractors. At Texas Outdoor Oasis, a staff of seven designers and five project
managers, along with landscape crew specialists and office support, uniquely position the company as a one-stop shop. Bundling their talents together allows the company to meet a wide range of customer requests.
These requests run the gamut of design trends, including backyard expansions with screen rooms and all-season rooms. In fact, Casey has witnessed a 200% rise in demand for screen rooms, which use screens as walls rather than windows, as well as increased use of motorized screens. These screens help keep bugs out in the summer months—a major concern for outdoor living in Texas—and circulate cooler air within the room via fans.
Advancements in technology and modern, clean-lined designs are reshaping outdoor living across the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
“ADVANCEMENTS IN TECHNOLOGY, AS WELL AS CONTEMPORARY,
MODERN CLEAN LINES, ARE REVOLUTIONIZING THE OUTDOOR LIVING EXPLOSION IN THE DFW AREA.”
“While some of these trends are inspired by families moving to Texas from Florida, New York, and California, there is still a lot of traditional architecture being blended in, using cedar as well as painted patio structures, fireplaces, fire pits, outdoor kitchens, and pools,” Casey says.
Other hallmarks of outdoor living include:
• Pool remodeling services – A pool is often the centerpiece of a remodeled outdoor space.
• Patio covers – Protection from the forces of Mother Nature.
• Arbors and pergolas – Provide shelter, privacy, and designated garden areas.
• Landscaping – Design, installation, outdoor lighting, and green spaces.
• Irrigation repair – Professionally maintaining sprinkler systems.
• Stonework – Patios, grills, masonry fireplaces, fire pits, outdoor kitchens, and natural stone walkways.
• Outdoor flooring – Decorative concrete, travertine, paver, and turf options.
• Outdoor kitchen options – Built-in heaters and high-end appliances that can boost home value.
Texas Outdoor Oasis also partners with Big Green Egg, modeled after the clay cooking vessels first seen during China’s Qin Dynasty; Infratech Heaters, which offer infrared heating systems for various properties; Ledge
Loungers, featuring outdoor and in-pool furniture; and Pentair Pool Equipment.
WHEN IT COMES TO OUTDOOR LIVING, THE SKY’S THE LIMIT.
“We see more big patio farmhouse-style outdoor kitchens being requested, with special inserts and wood-stamped concrete flooring used as an extension of the house,” says Courtney Daugherty, a designer at Texas Outdoor Oasis. “An outdoor kitchen can be as elaborate as you want, with full-fledged appliances and sinks, grills, griddles, fridges,
storage spaces, wood-fire pizza ovens, accent lights, and bar tops for seating.”
Flat-top griddles are particularly popular, as are 30-inch pellet smokers, which combine the dual functionality of a smoker and a grill. Texas Outdoor Oasis is an official supplier of Blaze appliances, which provides high-quality stainless steel and cast stainless steel burners, so customers don’t have to source their appliances themselves—saving homeowners precious time.
“However, while providing the right amenities is vital to a homeowner’s outdoor space, at the end of the day, it’s the personal relationship a company builds with its clients that brings the most value,” Courtney notes.
Ready to launch your dream outdoor living space? Call Texas Outdoor Oasis at 940-291-3976 or request a free estimate at www.texasoutdooroasis.com/contact-us.
and making Rockwall County a better place to call home.
Let’s grow together. Stop by to learn how we can help your business thrive!
Portraits
There is always a reason to take new updated portraits. Whether its graduation photos, updated headshots for your resume, or even couples portraits or engagement photos, we can do it all!
Weddings
We strive to capture everything that makes your special day so special. From the littlest details to the biggest moments, you can trust that we will deliver high-quality content to preserve your most important occasion.
We also specialize in live events such as concerts, sporting events, corporate parties, and live performances.
For more info scan this QR code or contact us via the info below.
COMBINING PRIVACY, SECURITY, AND DESIGN TO ELEVATE YOUR PROPERTY’S VALUE
Quality Fences for Every Home
ARTICLE BY AVERLY BURNS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADELINE MERRICK: MERRICK MULTIMEDIA
We prioritize the customer experience from start to finish, ensuring every fence exceeds expectations.
When selecting a fence for your home, several factors matter: style, durability, privacy and security.
For Stand Strong Fencing in Rockwall, their focus is more than just building a fence. For them, it is about creating a product that enhances your home’s design while tailoring to your needs. Jesse Seay, the owner of Stand Strong Fencing, blends these elements to ensure every project adds lasting value to your property.
Stand Strong is unique due to its dedication to customer service. Seay says, “Building a great fence is not enough; what separates us is that we prioritize the customer experience from start to finish.” Using tools like customer relationship management systems, Stand Strong keeps clients informed throughout the process. Seay’s focus on communication and craftsmanship ensures that each fence exceeds expectations.
For clients seeking privacy and security, Stand Strong takes a consultative approach to designs. “We don’t come in with predetermined ideas. We start by listening to the customer and understanding their vision,” Seay explains. Whether you’re securing a small yard or a secluded oasis, Stand Strong helps clients design the perfect fences. With materials ranging from traditional cedar to modern options like Trex, a composite material that is weather resistant for 25 years, clients can create a design that complements their home and provides the privacy they desire.
Durability is also a key focus. Stand Strong Fencing is a proud member of the American Fence Association, which requires it to adhere to industry
standards that ensure every fence is built to last. Seay notes that many new homebuilders cut corners by using subpar materials that are not designed to withstand the elements. Stand Strong prioritizes high-quality materials from trusted suppliers. “We build fences that last, and that’s why we offer a lifetime workmanship warranty,” Seay says. This commitment ensures that homeowners can rest easy knowing that their fence will look great and work well for years to come.
Recent trends in fencing design reflect a shift toward more customized options. Clients are no longer limited to traditional vertical picket fences. Instead, they experiment with different styles, mixing materials and choosing solutions that align with their home’s architecture. Stand Strong embraces this creativity, sourcing materials from across the country to bring unique designs to life. One notable example is a project where a client with a large property opted for a black steel-framed fence with horizontal cedar pickets. The design not only provided the privacy the client sought but also complemented the modern style of their home, creating a beautiful and functional boundary.
Seay understands that fencing is an investment, and he wants to ensure this investment provides long-term value. “A fence is a great investment in your home, but you want to make sure it’s done right the first time,” he advises. That is why he encourages potential clients to research options carefully, ask questions about warranties and materials, and choose a company that stands by its work. With
Stand Strong Fencing, clients can be confident that their fence will make a lasting improvement on the appearance of their property.
As Stand Strong Fencing continues to grow, Seay’s vision remains clear: to be known as the go-to name in fencing by building strong neighborhoods. With a focus on superior customer service, innovative designs and quality craftsmanship, the company is well on its way to becoming a household name. Whether you’re building a fence for privacy, security or curb appeal, Stand Strong Fencing offers solutions that are as beautiful as they are functional, elevating your home’s design while ensuring your peace of mind.
When it comes to discovering the perfect fence, there’s no need to search any longer. Step right up to Stand Strong Fencing of Forney, your trusted source for durable and secure fencing solutions. Their professional team takes pride in providing top-notch fence installation services that enhance your property’s aesthetic and provide optimal security for you and your loved ones.
Call them at (469) 228-8208 to schedule your custom fencing quote today!
www.standstrongfencing.com/forney-tx
A fence is a great investment in your home, but you want to make sure it’s done right the first time.
Owner, Jesse Seay and family (photo courtesy of Brittany Kinzer)
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UNLOCK YOUR
WITH
WHAT IS ATHLETIC
POTENTIAL
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ROCKWALL
2455 Ridge Rd, Ste 100, Rockwall, TX 75087 (469) 272-8969
BOOSTING CURB APPEAL
How Your Garage Door Can Increase Your Home’s Value
ARTICLE BY BEVERLY MOSS PHOTOGRAPHY BY DALLAS MCNEAL PHOTOGRAPHY
When it comes to boosting your home’s curb appeal, few upgrades make as big of an impact as a new garage door. According to Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value Report 2024 , garage doors offer an impressive 194% return on investment, making them one of the best improvements you
“It’s all about curb appeal. We’re seeing a 194% return on investment when it comes to increasing the home’s value.”
can make to increase your home’s value. Whether you’re preparing to sell or simply want to enhance your property’s look, upgrading your garage door can make a significant difference.
For Levi Tanner, USMC veteran and co-owner of Tanners Garage Door, curb appeal is more than just a buzzword—it’s a proven strategy. “When we recently sold a home, there were five others for sale in the same neighborhood, some of which had been on the market for 30 days or more,” Levi explains. “Thanks to the new garage doors we installed, our house sold in just 10 days. It’s amazing what the right garage door can do.” This real-world example shows how upgrading your garage door can help your home stand out and sell faster.
Today’s garage doors are both stylish and functional. From sleek, full-view glass panels to woodtone finishes that replicate the warmth of natural wood, homeowners have a wide range of materials and designs to complement their home’s aesthetic. “Garage doors make their own fashion statement,” Levi shares. Whether you prefer a contemporary look with glass and steel or a more traditional design with wood finishes, there’s a garage door for every style.
For many homes, the garage door is the largest visual element of the exterior. Upgrading from basic, builder-grade models to more striking options can completely transform the look of a property. “Homebuilders often focus on keeping
costs down, so they don’t always install high-quality garage doors,” Levi says. “Switching to a woodtone or glass door can make a night-and-day difference.” A new garage door can make your home feel more polished, welcoming, and stylish.
Tanners Garage Door has been proudly serving Texans since 2006, specializing in garage door installation, repairs, and maintenance. The company prioritizes quality, offering top-tier brands and products designed for durability and longevity. Insulated garage doors, for example, help maintain consistent indoor temperatures—cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter—improving energy efficiency and saving homeowners money over time. Insulated doors also reduce outside noise, creating a quieter living space.
Tanners Garage Door ensures all of its team members are certified through the International Door Association (IDA), which promotes professionalism in the garage door industry. Levi and his team are passionate about providing exceptional service, and they are available 24/7 for emergencies. Whether your garage door is off-track, the keypad isn’t responding, or you’re dealing with broken springs, cables, or hardware, their team is ready to assist. “We want to ensure our customers are safe and secure,” Levi says.
Tanners Garage Door proudly serves the DFW Metroplex and surrounding areas. Whether you need a quick repair, a full installation, or routine maintenance, their team is prepared to meet your needs with outstanding service and professionalism. With years of experience, Tanners Garage Door is the trusted name for garage door services in the region.
For more information, call 469-345-6270 or visit www.tannersgaragedoor.com
MARCH 2ND
Shrek Fest
The Northside: 190 Shenandoah Ln., Rockwall, TX | 12:00 PM
Come join The Northside for a day filled with all things Shrek! The fest kicks off with a market featuring Shrek-themed goodies, from ogre ears to swamp slime. Then, settle in for an outdoor screening of the iconic film. Bring your own blanket for maximum ogre comfort!
MARCH 7TH
Inaugural 2025 Youth of the Year Gala
Hilton Dallas/Rockwall Lakefront: 2055 Summer Lee Dr., Rockwall, TX | 6:00 PM
Step into an extraordinary evening at a one-of-a-kind event benefitting the Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeast Texas. This special night will showcase the inspiring voices of Club youth, weaving a powerful narrative of empowerment, resilience, and hope. Guests will hear from the 2025 Youth of the Year—an inspiring young leader who embodies the impact of the Club.
MARCH 17TH – 20TH
Rockwall Parks and Recreation Youth Spring Break Art Camp
Harry Myers Community Center: 815 E. Washington St., Rockwall, TX | 9:00 AM
During the Spring Break Art Camp, young artists will create beautiful springtime themed land and seascapes, still lifes, and animal drawings under the inspiring guidance of award-winning “Teachers of the Year” Susan and Christen Garden. All art supplies are provided, but students are asked to bring a roll of paper towels to class on the first day. Sign-up at https://www.rockwall.com/parks_youthcamp.asp
MARCH 22ND
Legal & Finance Industry Expo presented by City Lifestyle
Caddo Office Reimagined: 4324 Mapleshade Ln., Plano, TX | 12:00 PM
Network with professionals, discover the latest trends, and explore innovative solutions. The expo is a wonderful resource for business owners, residents and aspiring career professionals. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to connect, learn, and grow in the legal and finance world! Vendors and workshops will be available throughout the event.
MARCH 27TH
Spring Luncheon for Meals on Wheels
Honey Locust Farms: 4571 TX-276, Rockwall, TX | 11:30 AM
Join Meals on Wheels Senior Services of Rockwall County for our Annual Spring Luncheon and Fundraiser! Your support helps us fulfill our mission of keeping the elderly and disabled living in their homes as long as safely possible through nutritious meals, daily human contact, and supportive services.
MARCH 27TH
Go Blue for Kids Kickoff Party
Standard Service - Heath: 4240 Ridge Rd., Heath, TX 75032 | 4:30 PM
Every April during Child Abuse Prevention Month, Children’s Advocacy Center for Rockwall County (CACRC) initiates our Go Blue for Kids Campaign. Join us at our campaign’s kick-off event as we celebrate the community coming together to stand against child abuse. Enjoy complimentary cotton candy, kid zone, live entertainment, and more. Learn more and RSVP at https://givebutter.com/Kickoff2025
