Rogers, AR March 2025

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HOME + DESIGN

Home: Where Every Story Begins

Home. So much contained in that little four letter word. Home is our grounding. Our base. Our launchpad. It’s where we start and end each day. And while the particulars look different for each of us, the meaning and value it holds for all of us is undeniable.

This month, we want to focus on all aspects of a home—offering home-buying tips, exploring inspiring aesthetics and design, and celebrating the neighborhoods and the people who make the tight-knit community of Rogers so special.

This issue holds a special place in my heart because my first full-time magazine job 21 years ago was centered around home design, and I’ve been writing about it ever since! I’m passionate about hearing the stories behind why certain spaces matter to people and how they chose to design them. To me, home design is truly an art. It’s where memories are made, and every corner tells a unique story. My favorite place in my own home is actually my back patio, modeled after one of our favorite beach homes in Seaside, Florida.

Certainly you have your own favorite piece or spot you gravitate to in your home. Whether it’s the cozy nook where you sip morning coffee or a vibrant living room filled with laughter, each space holds a special place in our hearts.

We feel like the lucky ones as we were able to learn more about the businesses and individuals that comprise the city of Rogers and hope the small lens into their lives and work brings people in this community together.

Hopefully this magazine finds a special spot in your home, one you’ll enjoy displaying and returning to for inspiration all month long—and beyond. Thanks for letting us be a part of your home.

P.S. This month, we are thrilled to welcome our new publisher, Andy Ponte, who shares our passion for bringing stories of home, community and creativity to life. Look for an introduction from Andy in the April issue!

Happy March!

March 2025

PUBLISHER

Andy Ponte | andy.ponte@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Julie Craig | julie.craig@citylifestyle.com

STAFF WRITER

Sydney Johnson | sydney.johnson@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Riley Craig, Michelle W. Parnell, Allison Swan

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Isabella Aldrete, DC Photography, Houston Evans, JFarris Media, Nids Creations, Austin Rodriguez / Photographer, Nate Sheets, Courtney Zandstra

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

Because You Deserve It.

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

@THECOPPERCROWN.NWA

@SHADOWVALLEYNWA

1: Kitchen Tune-up offers fast, affordable kitchen updates, including painting, redooring, refacing and new cabinets. 2: Habitat for Humanity of Northwest Arkansas merged the Benton County and Washington County affiliates. 3: The Copper Crown in Downtown Rogers offers antique treasures for vintage enthusiasts. 4: Morgan Millworks crafts custom cabinets in AM Custom Homes, blending modern designs and classic finishes. 5: Sip, savor and unwind at Ashleigh Wine & Sake Lounge in Rogers. 6: 28 custom luxury townhomes in the Brownstones at Pinnacle Heights, designed by BUF Studio. 7: Shadow Valley’s 2025 Tennis Club Championship 7.0 mixed doubles winners, Gabby Daglow and Brent Jimenez.

business monthly

Circle of Life Opens Joey Feek Center for Home-Based Care

The new center is located at 816 Metro Place in Lowell. Circle of Life offers compassionate end-of-life care services, focusing on enhancing the quality of life for patients and their families, providing hospice and palliative care, personal care, care navigation, pain management, emotional support, and spiritual guidance. Additionally, they offer counseling and bereavement support to families during and after the transition. For info, visit nwacircleoflife.com.

Bumble Bee Blinds: Stylish, Custom Window Treatments for Every Space

Bumble Bee Blinds provides custom window treatments for homes and businesses, offering stylish and functional blinds, shades, shutters and exterior screens. Their expert team delivers personalized consultations with visualizer technology, precise laser measurements, and hands-on samples to ensure the perfect fit. With a commitment to quality, affordability, and excellent service, Bumble Bee Blinds helps clients enhance their spaces with beautiful, high-quality window solutions. Transform your windows with ease—buzz over to Bumble Bee Blinds today!

Electrician Near Me: People-First Service, Powered by Integrity

Electrician Near Me proudly serves all of Northwest Arkansas with a “People over Profits” approach. Formerly Ozark Electric Vehicle Charging Solutions, they prioritize fair wages, generous vacation time and comprehensive health services for their team. Their belief is simple: Happy Electricians make Happy Customers—which is why they guarantee Five-Star service at every job. Experience expert, customer-focused electrical solutions with a company that truly cares. Call or text the owner directly at 479-364-7489!

Photography by Isabella Aldrete

Sweet

Jaime Howell’s Philosophy to Helping Clients Find Their Perfect Home

Home NWA

From her childhood on a small farm in Northwest Arkansas to navigating the fast-paced world of real estate, Jaime Howell is deeply grateful for the way she was raised. Growing up, she and her sister spent endless hours outdoors—playing in the hayloft, riding horses, and catching tadpoles in the ponds. As a lifelong NWA native, she’s had a front-row seat to the region’s explosive growth, giving her an insider’s perspective on the Rogers housing market. Through her personal brand, Sweet Home NWA at Keller Williams Market Pro Realty, Howell

Photo Credit: Austin Rodriguez / Photographer

combines her in-depth local knowledge with a straightforward, honest approach, providing buyers and sellers with advice that cuts through the noise.

Howell’s journey began at the University of Arkansas, where she studied Finance and Real Estate. In the summer of her freshman year, her mother encouraged her to start seriously considering her career path. With her mom’s strong-willed and fiercely independent nature as inspiration, Howell developed a deep determination to get things done. She took a 90-day temp job with Walmart, a decision that would ignite a 20+ year career in commercial real estate. Juggling work and school, she commuted daily from Fayetteville to Bentonville, embodying the grit and perseverance that now defines her approach to business. Throughout her extensive career, Howell has remained unwavering in her integrity, always making sound business decisions and treating people with respect.

That same determination and drive are what make Howell such a strong advocate for her clients today. She knows that buying or selling a home is one of the biggest financial and emotional decisions a person can make, and she approaches each transaction with care, transparency and expert guidance. Whether she’s helping a young family find their first home or assisting a retiree in downsizing, she takes the time to understand her clients’ unique needs and goals. She believes that real estate is about more than just contracts and closings—it’s about helping people start new chapters in their lives with confidence and excitement.

Photo Credit: JFarris Media

For those looking to buy, Howell’s advice is simple but invaluable: start with a clear understanding of your budget, including those often-overlooked closing costs. This clarity not only helps manage expectations but also prevents the disappointment of falling for a home that’s out of your price range. She encourages first-time buyers to stay flexible— whether it’s a hidden gem that needs some work or a turnkey property close to downtown. When it comes to selling, Howell offers expert advice to avoid costly mistakes, starting with the importance of accurate pricing. Overpricing can scare off potential buyers, so setting the right price is crucial. If your home is vacant, staging is a must to help buyers imagine themselves in the space, and professional photography is a non-negotiable as you’re not just selling a property, you’re selling a lifestyle. Howell also recommends a “coming soon” marketing strategy to build buzz before the listing can be shown, and she stresses the importance of being flexible with showings to make the process as smooth as possible.

In the ever-evolving Rogers housing market, she knows that staying informed is key to making smart, strategic decisions. As she puts it, “There’s never one answer for how the market is doing,” and she’s right, things are constantly shifting. More buyers are looking to surrounding areas, and homes in Rogers are selling quickly. The market’s competitiveness has even led some to compare Rogers to Austin, driving further attention and investment. Howell’s deep understanding of these

trends helps her clients stay ahead, making savvy moves in this fast-moving environment.

Jaime Howell is an invaluable guide, going above and beyond to ensure every client feels supported, informed, and ready for what’s next. As she puts it, “There’s a story behind every move,” and she’s dedicated to helping you write yours. Her deep knowledge of the market, combined with her personal commitment to each client’s success, makes her an incredible resource. Howell’s passion for the area shines through in her work with Sweet Home NWA—a reflection of the vibrant, ever-evolving place she lives, works, and plays. From dirt roads to four-lane highways, bike trails to bustling city streets, Northwest Arkansas remains an amazing place to raise a family, build a career, and explore the outdoors. How sweet it is!

Contact Jaime Howell, Executive Broker at Keller Williams Market Pro Realty, at (479) 381-8145, jhowell@ sweethomenwa.com, or visit linktr.ee/sweethomenwa.

Photo Credit: JFarris Media

Congratulations to our $2,500 Free House Painting Winner!

We’re thrilled to announce that the Gollhofer household is the lucky grand prize winner! ✨

A huge THANK YOU to everyone who participated—your support means the world to us! Stay tuned for more exciting opportunities. If your home could use a refresh, we’d love to help!

Book your estimate today:

CALL/TEXT (479) 631-9869

SCAN our QR code

LUMINOUS LIVING

The impact of outdoor lighting goes beyond aesthetics. It’s usually an afterthought. After putting effort into a beautiful home and landscape, people wish they could see it at night. “Your windows become a mirror at night unless you have appropriate lighting,” says Brad Simon, owner of Wonderly Lights of Northwest Arkansas. Exterior lighting opens up your home, illuminates the landscape, and creates a desire to enjoy it.

Simon and his wife began their entrepreneurial journey with a pest control company but pivoted to

Christmas light installation during the off-season. It was then Simon discovered his passion for lighting, which they turned into a year-round business. As Northwest Arkansas natives, the Simons recognized the region’s growth and saw an opportunity to bring proper lighting to the area. “There is such a missed opportunity for homeowners to take pride in their homes and businesses with proper lighting,” Simon shares. Wonderly Lights is a permanent home and landscape lighting business committed to top-quality

Outdoor Lighting Can Transform Your Home All Year

service. “I won’t install anything unless I’ve gone through the manufacturer’s exact training,” he emphasizes.

Simon’s expertise includes training with Janet Lennox Moyer, a landscape lighting book author. Now, Simon is set to become the first and only authorized dealer in Arkansas for X Series permanent lighting. The process begins with a personal consultation to design a tailored lighting plan and an initial demo setup. “The best part is whenever you turn the lights off during those demo kits, and they’re like, ‘Oh no, turn them back on!’” he says. With their user-friendly app, customers can also customize their lighting for any time of year and the team is always happy to help with the programming so customers can easily experience the magic.

bringing your property to light

Wonderly Lights of Northwest Arkansas is committed to serving the community with excellence and care. Customers are consistently impressed by the quality of their services, often wondering why they didn’t invest in proper lighting sooner. Brad Simon’s expertise ensures that your home’s lighting will look stunning, and his high standards for product quality guarantee long-lasting results. “When you don’t know where the light’s coming from, but everything’s illuminated perfectly, that’s how we know we’ve done it right,” says Brad Simon. With permanent rooftop and landscape lighting, you can highlight your property’s beauty and bring out its unique personality. Schedule a free design consultation today and experience the difference outdoor lighting can make for your property!

How

S P R I N G C L E A N I N G

Y O U R H O M E ?

LUXURY UNLOCKED

Photo Credit: DC Photography

In the world of luxury real estate, few know the market better than Nicky Dean (formerly Dou), REALTOR and executive broker with Collier & Associates. With over two decades of experience, Dean has earned a reputation as a trusted expert in Northwest Arkansas’ high-end property market. Her deep understanding, coupled with innovative marketing strategies, has made her a leading force in helping buyers and sellers navigate the market. She credits much of her success to her amazing assistant, Jerilyn, who makes every transaction run smoothly.

In Northwest Arkansas, the luxury market starts at $650,000, with million-dollar homes becoming increasingly popular despite their exclusivity. These often feature 3,500 to 4,000 square feet of

Photo Credit: DC Photography
Photo Credit: DC Photography
Photo Credit: Nids Creations

living space, distinctive design elements and sought-after locations. “Pricing is all about the data,” Dean explains. She leans on the MLS system to evaluate comparable sales, although higher-end properties pose challenges due to the limited availability of similar homes for comparison.

Marketing luxury properties requires a distinct approach. “About 85 percent of buyers begin their search online, which makes a home’s digital presence critical,” she says. From professional photography and virtual 3D tours using her Matterport camera to staging each space for maximum appeal, Dean makes every property stand out. Her websites, NorthwestArkansasLuxuryHomes.com and SoldbyNicky.com , along with her Facebook pages, showcase the best in local luxury.

One standout property, a builder’s personal home, demonstrates Dean’s expertise. This property epitomizes luxury with custom-built-ins in the living room, a huge center island in the kitchen and lush landscaping that creates a private oasis. Its location near top-rated schools makes it even more desirable for discerning buyers.

Whether it’s a stunning custom home or the perfect blend of location and design, Dean’s passion for helping buyers and sellers find their dream properties solidifies her position at the forefront of the luxury market in Northwest Arkansas.

Photo Credit: Houston Evans

buzzworthy windows

Family-owned experts in custom window treatments for homes and businesses

Bumble Bee Blinds of NWA is a family-owned business that provides custom interior and exterior window treatments for residential and commercial spaces. From blinds and shades to shutters and exterior screens, they provide tailored solutions with precision and care. With expert consultations, laser measurements and financing options, they can easily bring your vision to life!

Originally from the Northeast, Kyle and Melanie Williams moved to Rogers a decade ago for Kyle’s career. What was meant to be a short stay turned into a love for this community, and they’ve since put down roots. Family-oriented and Christ-centered, they balance corporate careers while raising a family in beautiful Northwest Arkansas. Their passion for the area is evident as they continue to serve the local community through their business.

Transform your nursery into a cozy, serene space with custom shades. These stylish and functional window treatments provide just the right amount of light and privacy, making it the perfect setting for your little one to rest, relax and grow in comfort and style while adding an elegant, personalized touch to your home. Bumble Bee Blinds helps create the ideal environment for your growing family with solutions designed to fit your needs.

The day-to-day operations of the business are managed by General Manager Ryan Phillips, while Sales & Design Consultant Matthew Martin works directly with clients to understand their needs and design preferences. Bumble Bee Blinds offers a personalized experience, using visualizer technology, precise laser measurements and hands-on samples to make sure clients select the perfect

products. They also provide expert guidance on installation and maintenance, ensuring long-lasting satisfaction. From blinds and shades to shutters and exterior screens, they offer a wide variety of high-quality options at different price points so that there’s a solution for every home and budget. They truly take pride in offering exceptional customer service, from consultation to installation.

Enjoy the perfect outdoor setting with custom exterior shades. As the certified dealer of Universal Screens in Northwest Arkansas, Bumble Bee Blinds offers high-quality solutions that enhance your outdoor living spaces while providing shade, privacy and comfort—ideal for relaxing by the pool, hosting gatherings, or enjoying beautiful weather in complete style and serenity. These custom solutions make sure your outdoor spaces remain comfortable throughout the year, no matter the season.

Let natural light enhance your kitchen’s beauty with custom blinds from Bumble Bee Blinds. Watch your space come alive as sunlight filters through, creating a bright, inviting atmosphere. The company offers high-quality window treatments to add both style and function and elevate your kitchen’s design to perfection, while also providing privacy and light control for the ultimate in comfort. Whether you’re cooking, dining, or entertaining, these window treatments provide the perfect balance of aesthetics and practicality.

Kitchen design has entered a transformative era, where innovation meets artistry to create spaces that are not only functional but also personal and sustainable. With advancements in technology, materials and craftsmanship, today’s kitchens are tailored to meet the evolving needs and tastes of homeowners.

According to interior designer Laura McCroskey, kitchens today are about more than just cooking—they’re an expression of personal lifestyle.

“Kitchen design has entered an exciting time where the possibilities feel limitless,” says McCroskey. “For me, the design process starts before lines are ever drawn on a construction document. I believe in creating spaces that enhance life, both functionally and aesthetically. The design process begins with a discussion about what a space needs to do, and what aesthetic will bring a spark to the homeowner.

INNOVATION MEETS

design. Advanced appliances are at the forefront, enhancing convenience while aligning with a growing emphasis on eco-friendliness.

“From vacuum-sealing drawers that preserve food and reduce waste to smart appliances controlled by your phone, the emphasis is on efficiency and sustainability. Functional storage built seamlessly into marble countertops and oversized workstation sinks are making daily tasks easier and more enjoyable. Thoughtful features like composting compartments and advanced food preservation methods reflect a broader effort to minimize waste and reduce environmental impact.”

Custom cabinetry that maximizes every inch of space minimizes waste while optimizing functionality.

“Forget the limits of traditional cabinetry. Blind corners, tiny nooks and hidden areas are now designed to maximize storage.

ARTISTRY

I also firmly believe that when designing a kitchen, one should walk out a recipe to make sure everything is in the right place to suit one’s lifestyle. Cooking zones are imperative to a well-designed kitchen.”

Modern kitchens emphasize zoning, or the creation of dedicated areas for preparation, cooking and storage, to enhance workflow and functionality. These zones not only improve efficiency but also contribute to a cohesive and visually appealing aesthetic.

Cutting-edge rendering software, utilizing technology similar to that used in gaming, allows homeowners to visualize their dream kitchens in hyper-realistic detail. While these tools inspire creativity, McCroskey advises balancing ambitious ideas with practical implementation to achieve the best results.

Technology, sustainability and customization are driving the revolution in kitchen

Automated drawers and pop-up outlets are becoming increasingly common, marrying convenience with sleek aesthetics.”

Design trends have also evolved, becoming more flexible to reflect individual tastes.

“While white kitchens remain timeless and black adds drama, bleached woods continue to be popular. Style trends are no longer as rigid—whether you prefer modern, transitional, or traditional designs, you can create a kitchen tailored to your unique vision. There’s no limit to what you can achieve with today’s tools and technologies. The goal is to create spaces that resonate deeply with the people who live in them.”

The kitchen is the heart of every home and represents a space of endless possibility. Whether your aesthetic leans modern, farmhouse or somewhere in between, the tools and technologies available today make it easier than ever to bring your vision to life.

Brothers In Business

THE BOYS BEHIND ELECTRICIAN NEAR ME

Ken and Kiyoshi Fukumoto are two brothers on a mission to redefine the electrical service industry in Northwest Arkansas. Their story is one of brotherhood, chasing dreams, and changing industry norms– driven by a partnership built on complementary strengths and a shared vision for success.

With a four-year age gap between them, Ken wasn’t just an older brother to Kiyoshi growing up, he was a protector whenever life got tough. Now, as adults running Electrician Near Me LLC, their harmonizing skills and servant-leader mentality make them a powerful team. From EV charger installation to electrical services to construction projects, they do it all. Kiyoshi drives the business forward, while Ken makes sure it runs smoothly. Due to his optimism and big-picture vision, Kiyoshi serves as the Growth Coordinator, handling community relations and business development. Ken serves as the Operations Manager who can break down complex ideas to help others grasp them. He was a tutor in college, and his joy in sharing knowledge is still a part of his character today. Together, they’re a dynamic duo.

One thing that sets the business apart is their commitment to people over profits. They believe that acting with integrity and serving others leads to true success. A prime example of this came early in the journey: while working on a multi-family apartment complex, they finished the project ahead of schedule and under budget. Instead of padding their profits, they reduced the final invoice by $6,400, which led to long-term trust with their client. “He doesn’t even ask for bids anymore,” says Kiyoshi. “We just show up and invoice him once the job’s done!”

Beyond their commitment to clients, Kiyoshi and Ken are passionate about creating an exceptional

work environment. Their ultimate goal is to be the best construction company to work for in the United States through creating a special company culture. The brothers believe this more than throwing pizza parties, it means offering above-average pay, full medical benefits, and generous time off, a philosophy that guarantees five-star service on every job.

They are not stopping there. They are also tackling the growing skills gap in Arkansas with two apprenticeship programs in partnership with Big Picture Learning, a non-profit backed by the Walton Family Foundation. The first program aims to solve the state’s electrician shortage. With more electricians retiring than entering the field, labor costs have skyrocketed. To help, the brothers are pushing for a change in state law that would allow a 1:3 ratio of apprentices to licensed electricians to help increase the workforce and keep costs in check. Their second program focuses on the booming field of project management. Targeting high school grads, it equips them with essential skills like communication, time management, and office etiquette, plus Microsoft Office training and a Project Management Certificate. Graduates can either stay with the company or pursue opportunities in the region. Both programs are about more than just filling jobs, they’re building careers and creating lasting impact in the community.

Starting a business is never easy, but with Ken’s problem-solving skills and Kiyoshi’s vision, they’ve turned their dream into reality. After overcoming the challenge of their first job, everything started to fall into place. “It really did feel like a pipe dream, but here we are!” says Kiyoshi, proud of their journey. With the impact they’ve already made, we’re excited to see what’s in store.

“I’ve worked with many electricians throughout my career, and I’d give these boys my highest recommendation. They’re always looking out for the customer’s best interests.”
– Client Testimonial

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

FEBRUARY 28TH – MARCH 2ND

2025 Northwest Arkansas Home Show

Rogers Convention Center | 10:00 AM 10:00 AM-5:00 PM (Friday, Saturday), 12:00 PM-5:00 PM (Sunday). Organized by the Northwest Arkansas Home Builders Association, this annual event is in its 35th edition and is expected to attract over 3,500 attendees and feature more than 100 exhibitors. Attendees can explore the latest in home building, remodeling, and design trends, making it a must-visit for homeowners and industry professionals.

MARCH 5TH

Retirement Tax

Planning Seminar with Eli Freeman, CFP®

Harding University Rogers Campus901 S 52nd Street | 12:00 PM

Join Mach 1 Financial Advisor, Eli Freeman, CFP® as he teaches a course on navigating the tax landscape as retirement draws near. Lunch is provided and there is no cost to attend. Call to reserve your spot at 479.876.2100.

MARCH 8TH

Rogers Local Food and Art Market

Mount Hebron Park, 6174 Mount Hebron Rd. | 9:00 AM

Also March 22. The Rogers Local Food and Art Market is committed to improving the viability of small local farms, expanding sourcing of local ingredients for food crafters, and promoting sustainable and ecologically conscious handmade crafts and art.

MARCH 11TH & MARCH 13TH

A Meal at Tavola Trattoria with Mach 1 Financial Group

Tavola Trattoria - 108 SE A St, Bentonville | 6:30 PM

Financial advisors from Mach 1 will host guests for a meal at Tavola Trattoria and discuss the tax optimization strategies they use to create financial plans. Call to reserve your spot at 479.876.2100.

MARCH 19TH

Financial Spring Cleaning Workshop with Mach 1 Financial Group

Harding University Rogers Campus901 S 52nd Street | 12:00 PM

During this interactive workshop, you will learn tips and tricks from Mach 1 advisors to stay organized with your money. Plus, there will be a secure shredding opportunity for your unwanted statements. Call to reserve your spot at 479.876.2100.

MARCH 22ND

NWA Time Travelers Vintage Expo 2025

Rogers Convention Center | 10:00 AM

Time Travelers Vintage Expo, the largest traveling retro vintage market in the U.S., offers a curated shopping experience with top-notch vintage clothing, home goods, and retro-inspired handmade items. With entry at $10 in advance or $12 on the day, kids 12 and under enter free. The expo features 60-120 vendors from across the country, promoting community, sustainability, and creativity.

Want to be featured?

Mocha Mousse Magic

5 HOME ESSENTIALS TO EMBRACE PANTONE’S COLOR OF THE YEAR

Stafford Oval

Cocktail Table

Graceful tapering squared legs support an oval top veneered with prima vera over a low shelf.

Furling Cream and Caramel Buffet Lamp

In a matte glass finish, the creams and caramels seem to be unfurling around the glass in this outstanding buffet lamp.

Petrified Wood Top Organic Oval Accent Table

This accent table made out of Munggur wood and petrified wood stone features naturally rich warm tones in a sleek and modern design.

Carved Wooden Lamp

Expertly crafted from wood kiln dried Mindi Wood and finished with a light white wash, its intricately carved design adds artistry to your decor while casting a warm, welcoming glow.

Crafted from rare burl wood, a reddish growth deformity in trees, these frames are considered luxury items due to their unique, natural formation that cannot be replicated artificially.

Rosso Burlwood Photo Frame

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