NICK SMITH OF KEN SINGTON CUSTOM HOMES
CAN INTRODUCE YOU TO THE HOME OF YOUR DREAMS
Happy February!
Love is all around this month. Valentine's month is always a special time for showing love and caring to our family, friends, community and others who could use a special little pick me up.
This month's issue expresses caring in a variety of ways, from the meticulous attention that Nick Smith, owner of Kensington Custom Homes and Renovations, puts into every project he creates for local clients, to Shawn Horne's inspiration to create a new funky, sexy, cool patio lounge at Southlake's Calabrese Italian Restaurant.
Love can be expressed by taking a trip with family or friends, going someplace new - or a favorite, tried-and-true destination you enjoy - where you can partake in together time, whether it be during spring break, over the summer, or any other time of the year. Travel expert Daniel Sanders, Owner & Travel Consultant for Dream Vacations, offers some unique and exciting travel ideas for you to consider.
Guest columnist Aliya Sheriff, PsyD, Licensed Psychologist/Co-Founder IvyHealth Network, shares her thoughts in this issue on how you can show love for both others and community during February and beyond.
This month, you'll also find a fun article on do-it-yourself valentines, and our usual columns - including Business Monthly, City Scene and the Events section - within our pages.
However you choose to spend Valentine's Day and the "love month" of February, we wish you joy, pleasure and a full heart.
JON CALVIN, PUBLISHER @SOUTHLAKECITYLIFESTYLE
February 2025
PUBLISHER
Jon Calvin | jon.calvin@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Mandy Calvin | mandy.calvin@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Sally Crocker | sally.crocker@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Sally Crocker, Dr. Aliya Sheriff
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Samantha Farris, She’s My Sky Photography
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 Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
Proverbs 3:5-6
inside the issue
“The idea of building something from the ground up is always unique; creating a future homeowner’s vision, making it detailed, and right.” - Nick Smith, Kensington Custom Homes, photographed at one of his spectacular homes.
Own Real Estate Passively
Get the Benefits of Real Estate without all the headaches Cash Flow | Appreciation | Equity Growth | Tax Benefits Invest in our current multifamily fund which already
FEBRUARY 2025
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: About 200 guests attended the Colleyville Garden Club’s annual Holiday Luncheon at the Colleyville Center. 2: Southlake Rotary supporting the American Heart Association. 3: Guests enjoying the 25th Annual Home for the Holidays – Christmastime in Southlake Tree Lighting. 4: Southlake Mayor McCaskill recently teamed up with young “Mayors for the Day,” Brooke Kinslow, Aaira Ahmed and Andrew Diller. 5: Kids Matter International celebrated a great turnout for December’s Wrap Wrap Baby event. 6: Enjoying a Breakfast with Santa event. 7: For the 15th year, Southlake Rotary has provided dictionaries to Carroll ISD third graders.
Want to be seen in the magazine?
CAROL WOLLIN
CITY OF SOUTHLAKE FACEBOOK
CITY OF SOUTHLAKE
SOUTHLAKE ROTARY CLUB
SOUTHLAKE ROTARY CLUB
FACEBOOK
St. Jude Dream Home Showplace at Carillon Development
Building Hope: 5 Visionary Designs for St. Jude
Nick Smith Kensington Homes Founder
Travis Franks & Jody Alumbaugh WillowTree Founders
Jon Atwood Atwood Custom Homes Founder
John Webb Founder Heritage Custom Homes
Paul Moss Founder & Kyle Moss Beckett Graham Luxury Homes Founders
WillowTree Atwood
Heritage
Kensington
Beckett Graham
business monthly
Avant Chamber Ballet held at White’s Chapel Church
In December, Apex Art League hosted Avant Chamber Ballet for the 10th annual presentation of THE NUTCRACKER SHORT AND SUITE. This is a family-friendly holiday event that is meant to bring the arts to all. Approximately 700 friends and family attended the event at White’s Chapel Church. Apex Art League is a North Texas nonprofit that is committed to bringing all the arts, not just ballet, to the community. apexartsleague.com
Photography: Apex Art League
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Local service organization donates athletic shoes to South Dallas children
Scholars and Athletes Serving Others (SASO), a Southlake service organization for high school students and their mothers, celebrates a 10-year partnership with Youth World, a nonprofit that inspires hope and relieves economic burdens for at-risk kids in South Dallas. During Youth World’s annual shoe giveaway, SASO students shop for and fit more than 50 kids with brand-name athletic shoes each year. It is one of SASO's most cherished service events of the year.
Photography: Scholars and Athletes Serving Others
Looking for delicious mocktail options?
The Truluck’s bar, wine and cocktail menu has options for every palate— spiked, spirited or zero-proof. If you're skipping out on buzzy beverages, try some of these zero-proof favorites.
Blackberry Bramble: Just like in the cocktail, Truluck's uses a house-made habanero lime syrup that brings an amazing ‘I-need-another-sip’ flavor.
Berry Patch: This zero-proof drink has muddled strawberries, almond rosewater syrup and coconut soda, making it a full-bodied, satisfying drink.
Hibiscus Fresca: This delicious zeroproofer's made with hibiscus flowers and a tiki, tropical, beachy flair.
Photography: Truluck’s
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Catering
Elevate your next gathering with our premier catering services! We'll create a memorable dining experience that delights your guests and makes you the host of the year. Let us take care of the food so you can savor the moment!
FUNKY, SEXY, COOL
Enjoy a cocktail before dinner or a nightcap afterwards.
ARTICLE BY SALLY CROCKER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SAMANTHA HARRIS, SHE’S MY SKY PHOTOGRAPHY
HAVE YOU PARTIED IN THE NEW CALABRESE PATIO LOUNGE, THE SOPRA, YET?
Looking for a swanky, sexy cool place to enjoy a cocktail before dinner, or a nightcap after in Southlake? Then look no further than the new patio lounge at Calabrese Italian Restaurant.
Shawn Horne, Calabrese Southlake’s Director of Good Times and Leisure, has personally curated the funky, new “in” spot you’ll want to check out this spring, summer and all year round. Shawn has hand-picked the “Sopra Bellas” team and these beautiful personalities have been training on not only mixology, but also sommelier-level wine training.
To give guests an elevated experience inside Calabrese, the second floor deck has been designed with a high-end lounge atmosphere, with a louvered roof that opens to reveal the beautiful skies on starlit evenings. The windows open for an al fresco experience, with screens providing protection while you enjoy the romantic
A beautiful lounge. a sexy atmosphere.
Sip a drink, have a bite.
The drink selections Calabrese offers are endless.
feel of cool breezes and sip a cocktail. This self-contained patio also features full heating and air conditioning for those times when the weather is a little more extreme.
The patio has had soundproofing added, making it an ideal rental spot for all types of parties, special events and corporate activities. The sound absorbers will allow for those deep conversations with your next "Mr. Right“ or your next "Mr. Right Now” to be audible and ensure you do not miss something important, like an invitation to have dinner in the lovely Calabrese dining room.
Shawn curated all the furniture, working with a local design group called Zilli. The vibe is dark, loungey and hip, with lots of gold and brass accents, completed by blacks and soft browns. You can sit at the bar or one of the conversation sofas with side tables for your drinks and light bar snacks easily within reach. There’s also a table for 12 in the middle of the room. While enjoying your evening out, you can transition from the bar to the dining room to the outside, all depending on your mood and what you find to be most conducive to your party or date night.
You can also have your own special drink created from the patio’s mobile bar cart. In the mood for a smoky old fashioned? No problem, the Calabrese staff can create one for you. The bar cart will also be used for drink demos and cocktail training classes.
Most evenings you can get down to the sounds of the house DJ, while an events calendar will highlight special entertainment nights when a magician, musicians or visiting comedians will stop by for a boisterous and fun set.
For those with the most discerning of tastes, the patio will offer a very high end bottle service program, along with first press and cult wines from a global wine list, and incredible champagne choices by the glass. The bar will be stocked with premium and ultra-premium labels for those who are looking for a quality, smart cocktail.
Reservations are recommended. To make your reservation, or to request more information, email shawnh@calabresetx.com.
Space for parties, corporate events and more.
Looking for a swanky, sexy cool place to enjoy a cocktail before dinner, or a nightcap after in Southlake? Then look no further than the new patio lounge at Calabrese Italian Restaurant.
Shawn Horne, Calabrese Southlake’s Director of Good Times and Leisure.
Dark colors and a funky vibe bring something extra to Southlake evenings.
The decor was all curated by Shawn himself.
APN IS CHANGING THE HEALTH AND WELLNESS LANDSCAPE
in DALLAS-FORT WORTH
Home to several Fortune 500 companies, The DallasFort Worth metroplex is no stranger to cutting-edge innovation. Now, Colorado-based brand All Points North is bringing something new to DFW to help locals find total, sustainable health in mind and body.
With core behavioral health services from All Points North, neurotechnology and integrative psychiatry from Plus by APN, and mind-body group classes and personal training from 9x Fitness, All Points North (APN) Dallas-Fort Worth is a sanctuary of healing and recovery, dedicated to transforming the lives of those battling addiction, trauma, and mental health issues. This stateof-the-art facility combines luxurious accommodations with cutting-edge treatment modalities, making it a premier destination for comprehensive care.
Each APN Dallas-Fort Worth client receives personalized care tailored to their unique needs. The facility offers a range of services, including medically supervised detox, intensive outpatient and partial hospitalization programs, and innovative therapies such as hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), deep transcranial magnetic stimulation (dTMS), stellate ganglion blocks, and ketamine-assisted therapy.
APN’s multifaceted approach addresses not only the symptoms but also the underlying causes of addiction and mental health disorders, paving the way for longterm healing.
The dedicated care team at APN Dallas-Fort Worth understands that achieving optimal health requires a comprehensive approach. There’s no silver bullet, and there’s no one-size-fits-all treatment. Total health requires a custom approach for the mind and the body. By offering so many mental health services under one roof, APN Dallas-Fort Worth makes it easy for the local community to prioritize health and well-being.
Schedule a free consultation at apn.com/southlake
THE HEART OF CONNECTION
ARTICLE BY ALIYA SHERIFF, PSYD, LICENSED PSYCHOLOGIST/ CO-FOUNDER IVYHEALTH NETWORK
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADOBE STOCK PHOTOS
February is often dubbed the month of love, a time when we celebrate connection, affection and appreciation. While Valentine’s Day typically highlights romantic love, this month is a wonderful opportunity to focus on all forms of love – for friends, family and the community around us. Strengthening friendships and relationships starts with small acts of kindness. Take time to remember what your friends and family enjoy—whether it’s their favorite coffee order, a hobby they love, or a shared interest you both cherish. Being mindful of these details shows genuine care and strengthens your connection.
When it comes to family, consider setting aside dedicated time for shared meals with time for conversation, playing board games together, or trying a new activityreinforcing the bonds that sustain us through life’s ups and downs. Research suggests that even simple acts, like going on a walk together and being honest about what you're going through, can significantly improve brain health and deepen bonds. By being present and honest, you create space for trust and mutual support, making your relationships not just stronger but also more fulfilling.
February’s call to show love and build community
Building new friendships may feel daunting. Start by engaging in community activities that align with your interests, like joining a book club, fitness class or volunteer group. Southlake’s vibrant community offers ample opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals. Remember, it takes courage to extend that first invitation or attend that first gathering, but it’s often the beginning of a meaningful connection. As a psychologist, I’ve seen how love and connection transform mental health and well-being. This February, let’s celebrate the love we give and receive by being intentional in our relationships. Whether through simple gestures or bold steps into new social circles, let’s commit to strengthening the bonds that enrich our lives. After all, love isn’t just about the grand gestures—it’s about the everyday acts of care that make life brighter for everyone.
“THIS FEBRUARY, LET’S CELEBRATE THE LOVE WE GIVE AND RECEIVE BY BEING INTENTIONAL IN OUR RELATIONSHIPS. WHETHER THROUGH SIMPLE GESTURES OR BOLD STEPS INTO NEW SOCIAL CIRCLES, LET’S COMMIT TO STRENGTHENING THE BONDS THAT ENRICH OUR LIVES. AFTER ALL, LOVE ISN’T JUST ABOUT THE GRAND GESTURES—IT’S ABOUT THE EVERYDAY ACTS OF CARE THAT MAKE LIFE BRIGHTER FOR EVERYONE.”
Spend time doing simple, fun tasks together.
Creative Elements
Thinking about making some changes in your home? Dreaming about a new kitchen or bathroom you saw on Pinterest or Houzz? Whether it is changing your current look for more modern, clean lines, updating the traditional to more transitional,or simply making your space more functional, Creative Elements is ready to make your next step a reality
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DANIEL SANDERS,
As your travel advisors, we are here to offer inspiration. Whether you’re looking for an all-inclusive tropical destination, an immersive river cruise, or ocean cruise that boasts majestic scenery, we are committed to making your dream become a reality. We do the work for you without any fees.
Spring break is fast approaching, and it’s a great time to escape the routine and get away to warmer locales. As travel advisors, we offer options for families, couples and solo travelers. All-inclusive resorts for families, like Beaches Resort, and the relaxing Sandals getaways just for adults, are perfect options. They offer warm weather and lots of activities to take you away from your daily routine, all without any added charges or fees. Beverages, meals and most activities are included.
You can refresh and recharge on cruises to Caribbean destinations on everything from luxe cruises, like Seabourn and Regent, to Disney cruises that families love. Or engage your adventurous spirit on exotic expedition cruises to destinations around the world including the Galapagos Islands and Antarctica!
Summer is approaching and it’s a great time to begin planning for longer duration trips to Europe, Asia or the Americas. Whether cruises, or customized land tours, we can curate the perfect trip for couples, families or groups. From guided tours to free independent travel, we plan the perfect experience. Culture, food and wine-based experiences are only a phone call away.
An exciting adult experience, available in Europe, is a multi-day, guided road trip through the European countryside in exotic sports cars. F1 and Lemans-themed tours take you to the world’s most famed race courses. Many include VIP seating at a Grand Prix or Lemans competition. Race-themed days put you and your partner in different, high-performance exotic cars, following your group through the winding roads of the European countryside. Feel your pulse rise in Ferraris, Lamborghinis, Aston Martins, Bentleys and McLarens (just to name a few). Country by country, you can take in the vistas with stops at small towns and villages for exquisite local cuisine. End each day at a five-star accommodation where every need is attended to.
Want something less thrilling? Consider a small riverboat trip through the French, English or Spanish countryside. These vessels accommodate small groups of six to 20 people and are customizable
How about a trip to Japan?
Romantic vistas await you.
to your itinerary. Set off with your pilot, chef and guest coordinator on a traditional river boat refitted for luxury accommodations through the rural canals and small rivers that served the towns and villages of Europe more than 100 years ago. Watch the pastoral beauty of the French, Spanish or English vistas pass by while you dine and sip local wines on the deck of your boat. Each day ends with a stop in a small town that you can explore on foot or on one of the vessel’s bicycles. Dine ashore or be treated to your chef’s personal selection of local fresh foods.
Whatever your travel desires are, we can build the perfect trip to meet your needs. From a weekend getaway to multi-week journeys to the farthest reaches of our planet, we can get you there. Having travelled to over 80 countries, and having lived abroad, we have unique insight into how to navigate to the most beautiful places and exciting activities. Whether it’s family travel, romantic getaways, themed cultural experiences or adventure travel, we know how to find what you’re looking for!
As spring break approaches, now is the time to plan for your trip. Travel is at an all-time high and bookings fill quickly. You can’t plan too early!
Feeling in the mood for a Caribbean adventure?
Beautiful Rome is calling.
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Kensington Custom Homes
Award-winning builder Nick Smith provides an incredible experience and exquisite new homes and renovations
ARTICLE BY SALLY CROCKER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SAMANTHA FARRIS; ST. JUDE CHILDREN’S RESEARCH HOSPITAL®; CARILLON PARC DEVELOPMENT
Nick looking over plans on site.
Nick and one of his team members review plans of a home being built.
"The English." Nick built this home last year to raise money for St. Jude.
Kensington Custom Homes has been in business since 2001, serving Southlake, Westlake, Colleyville, Keller, Grapevine and surrounding communities.
The story of how owner Nick Smith found his way into the homebuilding and renovations business is quite interesting. Nick is originally from England. After college, he pursued hospitality school with the goal of becoming a hotel manager. He trained as a chef and started a career in the Northern England catering industry. He later moved to London to manage an employee restaurant in a government building. His focus was on working his way up in the catering industry, but he eventually changed his direction toward sales. Nick worked in computer sales in London for three years, then became a valued-added reseller in the field, providing everything a person needs to use a computer. After seven years, Nick decided he wanted to do something completely different, so he and his partner sold the business. In 1992, he started buying, renovating and reselling properties in England, including older London high street banks that were being acquired by larger financial institutions. Along the way, he met and fell in love with an American, which led him to Texas.
Here in the U.S., Nick met a builder and joined him for a year. He branched out on his own in 2001. He has thoroughly enjoyed the journey and is committed to taking the very best care of his clients as a builder of quality, custom homes.
“The idea of building something from the ground up is always unique and challenging – being able to transfer what people have in mind and desire into reality – and to create their vision, making it detailed and right.”
Kensington Custom Homes are known for quality and personal service. Nick purposely keeps the company at a size where he can personally be involved in everything that happens, building trust with his clients by being involved in all aspects of their homebuilding or renovation projects.
Nick really gets to know his clients. He likes to try to visit job sites with his supervisors at least twice a week, and he visits certain projects daily, depending on the complexities of the job. That’s why he likes to work close geographically, here in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex. Being very hands
on allows Nick to immediately resolve any issues that might come up, and to keep his clients constantly updated on their job’s progress.
BUILDING TO BENEFIT THE CHILDREN OF ST. JUDE
One of the most satisfying things Nick says he’s ever done is being involved in the upcoming Carillon Parc St. Jude Dream Home Community, a community-wide fundraiser bringing together five local, luxury homebuilders to benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital®. St. Jude is dedicated to the lifesaving mission of finding cures and saving children.
Located in the heart of Southlake at the northeast corner of N. White Chapel Blvd. and E. State Highway 114, Carillon Parc is a welcoming, walkable 42-acre mixed-use development featuring a luxury boutique hotel, innovative office spaces, upscale residences, advanced health and wellness offerings, chefdriven dining and luxury shopping, anchored by an expansive park with water features and a beautifully landscaped central plaza. This alluring new development is inspired by old-world architecture, from oversized sidewalks with cobblestone details to iconic bell towers, infused with innovative hospitality, commercial and residential offerings. Carillon Parc homes will be very low maintenance to buyers, with incredibly beautiful and well-designed homes around 5,000 sq. ft.
Now – for the first time ever – five luxury home builders are coming together in one exquisite Carillon Park neighborhood to create five dream homes, showcased side-byside to raise funds benefitting the lifesaving work of St. Jude. These homes will be ready in fall 2025. Kensington Custom Builders has 15 lots for luxury villas in Carillon Park, including the Dream Home.
“It’s a way of giving back, of feeling good about something you can actually do that makes a difference to people who really need it,” Nick says of being involved in the Dream Home project. “There’s such a sense of satisfaction with this project.”
The five Dream Homes will be built side-by-side in the same exquisite neighborhood. Along with Kensington, four other builders - Atwood Custom Homes, Beckett Graham Luxury Homes, Heritage Homes and Willow Tree Custom Homes - are the proud builders of this incredible showplace community. Along with their trade partners, vendors, suppliers and other campaign sponsors, they have committed to collectively raise at least $1 million for the children of St. Jude.
“Despite the fact that the builders are all strong personalities and competitors in the real world, we all get along well and have forged friendships; this whole St Jude experience has really moved us,” Nick says.
“Having been to Memphis to visit the research hospital, I’m already thinking about what other projects we could do to help the children.”
When the builders toured the hospital, Nick says, there wasn’t a dry eye in the room.
“The doctors and staff who care for the children at St. Jude are exceptional people, and we want to help them as much as possible. They really are doing lifesaving work,” he adds.
St. Jude patient Lucas and his mom
Southlake’s beautiful Carillon Parc development rendering, featuring Kensington Custom Homes.
Kensington Custom Homes and Renovations is dedicated to delivering high-quality, detail-oriented, custom services. Kensington’s focus is on providing superior craftsmanship, bringing together aesthetics and value, while keeping pace with the evolving needs of modern homeowners.
Kensington Custom Homes specializes in elegantly crafted, custom luxury homes built to be comfortable and energy saving. The owner of this family business, Nick Smith, has over 20 years of experience building custom homes throughout North Texas and is an award-winning builder. Together with a carefully chosen team of the finest craftsmen and subcontractors, Kensington Custom Homes will build you a craftsman’s product and create an incredible experience.
Nick and one of his associates review plans of a home being built.
A patient at St. Jude with her doctor.
A young patient being treated at St. Jude.
ARTICLE BY CHERYL PARTON
BY JANIE JONES
DIY VALENTINES
Simple Projects to Celebrate at Home
The first Valentines were handmade in the 18th century, long before printing presses and mass-produced options. Today, handmade signifies the ultimate in personal mots d’amour. Enjoy these sweet projects as a couple, a family, or with friends.
1. Arts
Create heart ornaments to hang on a Valentine’s Day tree. The ornaments can be used as clue cards for a Valentine's Day scavenger hunt. Participants find their picture on the tree and hunt for a hidden treasure.
2.Sweets
A home-based holiday is made complete with a dessert table. Whether made from scratch or store bought, a collection of decorated confections is as beautiful as the treats are delectable to eat.
3.Sentiments
Poetry is a most personal way to express your heart. No need to be intimidated by haiku, a short form of Japanese poetry. While there are several variations of the form, a traditional place to begin is with a seasonal word that divides 17 syllables into three lines of five/ seven/five. Simple and sweet.
ARTS SWEETS SENTIMENTS
AROUND THE BLOCK
Every $100 raised clothes an underserved child with an estimated $250 in new clothing and shoes at our annual
Around the Block Clothing Program
DIY GOLD LEAF JEWELRY DISHES
supplies you’ll need:
• Wooden bowls, trays, etc.
• Gold leaf (or metallic gold paint)
• Gentle Gold leaf brush
• Mod podge (or gold leaf adhesive)
• Acrylic paint
• Paint brushes
• Painters tape (optional)
steps to do:
• Grab a wooden bowl, some acrylic paint, and a brush.
• Hand paint some paint on one section of the bowl.
• Let the first coat dry and paint another two to three coats of paint until you’re happy with the result.
• Let the paint fully dry.
• I wanted my gold leaf paper to overlap the paint for a layered look, so I took a paint brush and painted some Mod Podge in an overlapping pattern.
• Once the Mod Podge gets tacky, use your hand to apply the gold leaf and accompanying wax sheet.
• Push the gold leaf onto the tacky glue, then remove the top layer of paper.
• Use your fingers to gently push the gold leaf onto the glue a little further.
• Next, use the gold leaf brush to smooth over the whole area and gently wipe away any excess gold leaf. Pay extra attention to the edges.
• Next, smooth the gold leaf section as much as possible, but don’t worry about any imperfections. The organic look of the gold leaf being imperfect gives the piece character.
• Next, work your way to the outer edge.
• Once the gold leaf is perfected, gently brush over the leaf with some Mod Podge to seal it to the bowl.
• Let it completely dry and enjoy!
“They’re a great and affordable gift idea for friends.”
Handmade Soap
Add a spa-like feel to your home with this refreshing soap recipe that's simple to make at home.
ARTICLE BY ANGI HOCKETT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
The art of soap making has come a long way since our grandmothers’ day. All the nourishing oils, beautiful colors, scents and exfoliants would have been a dream to her. Today, it is easy to custom make soap for any skin type. Adding oils such as avocado, olive, jojoba, and argon are just a few ingredients to make a rich smooth bar.
Not only do handmade soaps get super-fatted oils to add moisture, they can also include some amazing exfoliants, additives and scents. A few of my favorites are honey, aloe juice, goat’s milk, activated charcoal and clays.
If you want to get started making soap try this simple pour and mold recipe.
lavender honey lemon soap
ingredients
•2 lb. goat’s milk melt-and-pour soap
•1 lemon rind, zested
•3 tablespoons of dried lavender buds
• 2 tablespoons of honey
•15 drops of lavender essential oil
•6 drops of lemon essential oil
• Jar or bowl for melting soap base
• Silicone mold
directions
Chop soap into smaller pieces. It will melt faster this way. Place in bowl and microwave (or double boil). Be careful to watch soap and not let it burn. If you are using microwave, heat in 30 second increments, stirring frequently. Once soap is melted add your essential oils first. Once essential oils have been added and mixed thoroughly, add the lavender buds, lemon zest and honey. Have your mold ready to go, on a flat, even surface. You’ll want to move quickly before the soap cools too much. Mix everything thoroughly again, and pour mixture into mold. Let the soap cool for 2-3 hours until bars are completely solid. Wrap or package however you like.
Recipe from Sisoo.com
FEBRUARY 2025
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
FEBRUARY 26TH
AT&T Performing Arts Center presents Dirty Dancing In concert
The Majestic Theatre, 1925 Elm St., Dallas | 7:30 PM
Immerse yourself in the timeless romance and experience one of the most memorable movies of all time - with live band accompaniment and an encore party. You'll have the time of your life! attpac.org/event/dirtydancing-in-concert
FEBRUARY 28TH - MARCH 9TH
The Dallas Opera presents La bohème
Winspear Opera House, 2403 Flora Street, Dallas
Hungry, cold, broke and deliriously in love, the artists in Puccini’s masterpiece break our hearts over and over again each time it is performed. The Dallas Opera’s treasured period production returns with a fresh cast of some of opera’s brightest rising stars, transporting us to the cafés and corridors of Paris’s Latin Quarter as tragedy hovers nearby. attpac.org/event/la-boheme
APRIL 22ND
Reserve your tickets now to see the Diana Krall 2025 Tour
Winspear Opera House, 2403 Flora St., Dallas | 8:00 PM
AT&T Performing Arts Center & AEG present Diana Krall: “A voice at once cool and sultry, wielded with a rhythmic sophistication," says The New York Times. Reserve your tickets now to witness one of the most celebrated jazz singers of our time live.
ARTICLE BY BAILEY MORRIS
Lavender Vanilla Sugar Scrub
This homemade sugar scrub is easy to make and leaves you with silky soft skin
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 cup of granulated sugar
• ½ cup of oil (almond oil or olive oil works best)
• ½ teaspoon vitamin E oil
• ½ teaspoon real vanilla extract
• 15 drops lavender essential oil
DIRECTIONS:
Sugar scrubs are amazing for getting rid of dead skin and exfoliating to reveal soft skin.
To make this Lavender Vanilla Sugar Scrub, mix all ingredients together and store in an airtight jar.
LUXURY WITHOUT LIMITS, CRAFTED FOR YOU
At Semmelmann Interiors, we design more than homes we create spaces that inspire connection, entertaining, and living beautifully From personalized, full-service design to our signature “Organic Glamour” style, every detail reflects your unique story Let us craft a home as meaningful as it is luxurious
Step into a home designed to reflect your story scan the QR code to schedule a consultation now.
SIMMONS C ALHOUN HEBB
SCOTT SIMMONS ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP FUND
In a heartfelt tribute to Scott Simmons, a beloved builder and community leader from Southlake, Texas, a scholarship fund has been established to honor his enduring legacy. The Scott Simmons Endowed Scholarship Fund aims to support aspiring builders, ensuring that Scott’s passion for construction and community development lives on through the next generation.
Scott Simmons was a visionary who significantly contributed to the architectural landscape of Southlake and surrounding areas. Known for his meticulous attention to detail and commitment to excellence, Scott’s work has left a lasting impression on the community.
