Home Sweet Stone Oak
Welcome to the Home Issue of Stone Oak City Lifestyle! As we step into a new year, there’s no better time to focus on the places we call home and the community that surrounds them. Stone Oak continues to be a vibrant and evolving neighborhood, and in this issue, we celebrate what makes it truly special—its homes, its people, and the stories behind them.
We’re thrilled to feature Erica Braden and Stephanie Cervenka of Social House Real Estate Group. From childhood friends to trusted real estate experts, their journey is a testament to the power of community. In this issue, they share insights into the Stone Oak market and what makes this area so desirable for homebuyers and sellers alike.
We also dive into the world of home remodeling with local experts from Bexar Essentials. Whether you’re planning a small update or a full renovation, their expertise highlights the latest trends and offers valuable advice on transforming your home. Bexar Essentials has become a trusted name in the community, and their insights are a must-read for anyone considering a remodel in Stone Oak.
As always, we’re honored to bring you the best of Stone Oak. Here's to the warmth of home, where memories are made and futures begin.
Thank you for reading, and we look forward to sharing more stories with you throughout the year!
Warmly,
JESSIE MANGUM, EDITOR @STONEOAKCITYLIFESTYLE
March 2025
PUBLISHER
Sarah Mottu | sarah.mottu@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Jonathan Mottu | jonathan.mottu@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Jessie Mangum | jessie.mangum@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Jessie Mangum
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Yvette Hartridge
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 Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Lillian Gibbs
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick
Braden
Stephanie Cervenka
city scene
1: The Little Gym featured on Daytime/San Antonio Living for their "Sleighing Winter Boredom" segment. 2: Local women in business connecting, collaborating & coworking at Working Moms of San Antonio. 3: Monthly gun and archery league meets to shoot and learn at Buck and Does range. 4: Communication boards created by Stone Oak Speech ready to be installed at Mitchell's Landing. 5: The Social House Group serves chili to teachers and staff at Specht Elementary School. 6: Johnson High School's Coach TP Miller was selected to coach in the Navy AllAmerican bowl. 7: 4 Blondes Mahjong instructors instruct a class on how to play American Mahjong at LaTeaDa.
PROVEN TRACK RECORD
IN THE NEIGHBORHOODS THAT SHAPE THE STONE
OAK AREA COMMUNITY
SOLD
SOLD SOLD
LEASED
LAUREN FIGUEROA LAMPEL
During her tenure with the team, she has assisted in closing more than $180 million in sales.
Lauren is known for elevating experiences and achieving excellent results through best-inclass marketing. Together with her team, she has achieved a 37% higher average sales price within the most sought-after Stone Oak-Area neighborhoods.
As a hyperlocal expert, Lauren would love to use her insider knowledge, work ethic, connections and experience to deliver an elevated real estate experience for you.
C 210.275.1827
lfigueroa @ phyllisbrowning com @ laurenlampelrealestate J ason g last . com
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ROOTS AND Real Estate
ERICA BRADEN AND STEPHANIE CERVENKA ARE SHAPING THE STONE OAK MARKET WITH EXPERTISE AND HEART
ARTICLE BY JESSIE MANGUM
PHOTOGRAPHY BY YVETTE HARTRIDGE
We recently sat down with childhood friends and business partners, Stephanie and Erica of Social House Real Estate Group, to hear how their deep ties to Stone Oak led them to become the area’s go-to real estate experts. From their personal connection to the community to the story behind their thriving business, they share what makes them the trusted choice for buying and selling in Stone Oak.
CAN YOU TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND AND YOUR FRIENDSHIP?
We met on the first day of 6th grade in choir class and have been inseparable ever since! After graduating from Churchill High School in 2000, we both headed to Texas Tech University, where we studied Interior Design and Marketing and earned our degrees in 2005. After graduation, Erica worked in event planning in Las Vegas, while Stephanie started a sales career in San Antonio. Later, Erica returned to San Antonio to pursue graphic design, and Stephanie became Specht Elementary’s Secretary and Bookkeeper.
WHAT INSPIRED YOU BOTH TO PURSUE A CAREER IN REAL ESTATE, AND HOW DID THE IDEA OF STARTING A BUSINESS TOGETHER COME ABOUT?
Our interest in real estate and homes has always been a part of who we are. Growing up, Stephanie spent many weekends with her parents touring open houses, sparking her passion early on. As Interior Design majors, we dedicated countless hours exploring homes and new build communities, gathering ideas and keeping up with the latest trends. Additionally, Erica’s husband has been a Mortgage Broker for 20 years, keeping us connected to the real estate industry for over 25 years.
YOU BOTH HAVE SUCH DEEP TIES TO THE STONE OAK AREA. HOW HAS GROWING UP HERE SHAPED YOUR APPROACH TO REAL ESTATE AND HOW YOU SERVE YOUR CLIENTS?
Growing up here has given us a unique perspective and deep appreciation for the community, which directly influences how we approach real estate and serve our clients. This local knowledge allows us to guide our clients with insight and confidence, whether they’re new to the area or looking to find their next home. Growing up here instilled in us a sense of connection and community, which we strive to pass on to every client. We’re not just selling homes; we’re helping people build their lives in a place we know and love. It’s important to us that every client feels like they’re getting a neighbor’s advice—someone who truly knows the area and cares about their success.
WHAT CHANGES HAVE YOU OBSERVED IN THE GROWTH OF THE AREA, AND HOW DO YOU THINK THAT HAS IMPACTED THE REAL ESTATE MARKET?
The area has transformed from a relatively quiet suburban area into one of San Antonio’s most sought-after communities. Now, it’s a vibrant area with top-rated schools, a wide variety of dining and shopping options, and expanded healthcare facilities.
This growth has significantly impacted the real estate market by increasing demand for homes in the area. Buyers are drawn to the lifestyle Stone Oak offers—combining suburban convenience with access to downtown San Antonio and major employers. The expansion of new-build communities and higher-end developments has also elevated property values, making Stone Oak a
hotspot for families and professionals seeking both investment value and a great quality of life.
AS
LONGTIME RESIDENTS, WHAT ARE SOME OF THE UNIQUE QUALITIES OF THE STONE OAK AREA THAT YOU THINK HOMEBUYERS MIGHT APPRECIATE THE MOST?
We’ve seen firsthand what makes Stone Oak such a special place to call home. One of the standout qualities is its sense of community—neighbors here genuinely look out for each other, and the area is known for its friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
Homebuyers also appreciate Stone Oak’s top-rated schools, which are a major draw for families. The area offers a great balance of suburban comfort and urban convenience, with plenty of parks, walking trails, and outdoor spaces for recreation, alongside excellent dining, shopping, and entertainment options.
Stone Oak’s natural beauty is another unique quality. The rolling hills, mature oak trees, and scenic views add a peaceful charm that makes it feel like a retreat while still being close to downtown San Antonio and major employers.
WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE WHEN STARTING THE HOME-BUYING PROCESS?
For anyone looking to buy a home in Stone Oak, preparation and local knowledge are key to navigating this competitive market. Here’s our best advice to get started:
1. Work With a Local Expert: Stone Oak’s real estate market moves quickly, and having an agent who knows the area inside and out is invaluable.
2. Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage: A pre-approval not only shows sellers you’re serious but also helps you understand your budget and avoid falling in love with homes outside your price range.
3. Define Your Priorities: Start by identifying what matters most to you—whether it’s proximity to toprated schools, a specific neighborhood, or access to amenities like parks and shopping. Knowing your must-haves will help narrow your search.
4. Act Quickly but Strategically: Homes in Stone Oak tend to sell fast, so be prepared to move quickly when you find the right one. However, it’s just as important to stay strategic—don’t skip inspections or make emotional decisions under pressure.
5. Consider the Future: Think about how the home will suit your needs not just today but in the years to come. Whether it’s room to grow or proximity to work and schools, make sure the home aligns with your future plans.
WHAT SETS YOUR APPROACH TO REAL ESTATE APART FROM OTHERS IN THE STONE OAK AREA, AND WHY DO YOU THINK CLIENTS CHOOSE TO WORK WITH YOU?
There are many real estate teams in San Antonio, but we pride ourselves on operating a quite differently than them. We are a true partnership and we work in tandem on every step of the process, ensuring our clients always have access to one of us at all times. By combining our strengths and collaborating on every detail, we deliver a level of service that ensures no step is missed and every aspect of your journey is handled with care and precision. It also means our clients benefit from two perspectives and skillsets working seamlessly as one.
We understand that the home buying and selling process can quickly become overwhelming, which is why we are committed to providing a white-glove
“It’s important to us that every client feels like they’re getting a neighbor’s advice— someone who truly knows the area and cares about their success.”
level of service. Our core goal is to take the stress off your shoulders, allowing you to enjoy an elevated, smooth, and even fun experience. With us, real estate is more than a transaction—it’s a journey, and we’re here to make it as effortless and enjoyable as possible!
FINALLY, WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE THINGS TO DO IN STONE OAK WHEN YOU’RE NOT WORKING—ARE THERE ANY HIDDEN GEMS IN THE AREA YOU LOVE?
I don’t know how “hidden” these places are anymore but we definitely have our favorite spots! We try to support local establishments as much as we can so we’ll pull up at Pan & Coffee or Lova Cafe for a quick latte while we work rather than posting up at Starbucks. Nonna is fabulous for Italian and we really enjoy Stone Terrace Gastropub for brunch! Some other favorites are Copa Wine Bar, Stonewerks, Kirby’s for their incredible Happy Hour, Green Lantern for drinks, and Fully Belly Cafe.
ERICA
BRADEN AND STEPHANIE CERVENKA Founders
of Social House Real Estate Group
Showcasing a stunning home by Monticello Homes in Sunday Creek, the newest addition to the master-planned Kinder Ranch community, boasting gorgeous amenities and spectacular views of the Texas Hill Country.
Model home located at 919 Chalkstone | San Antonio, TX 78260. Contact (210) 796-0966 for your tour and Monticello Homes building information.
4372 N Loop 1604 West Ste 102 | San Antonio, TX 78249 (210) 861-4215 | thesocialhousegroup.com
The Joy of Tidying
ARTICLE BY KIMBER PATTERSON
HOW TO GET STARTED AND STAY MOTIVATED
Call it spring cleaning or IG envy, but this is the time of year I want everything – and I mean EVERYTHING –organized in my kitchen and closets. While I’m pretty good at maintaining an already-tidied space, tackling the not-so-tidy closet is where I need help. Heather Bifulco of TidyHomes came to the rescue with some great advice on getting started.
“My biggest suggestion is that you start small,” said Heather. “Don’t aim to tackle your pantry or closet in one organizing session. Our clients really struggle with the edit phase of the organization, but by the end they completely loosen up and start to have fun. For example, start under the kitchen sink. Lots of wins to be had there!”
Great tip. Now I had a plan of attack.
Next up? Creating categories. Organizing a space means taking out EVERYTHING and categorizing. Once that’s done, Heather always thoroughly cleans to inspire the flow of great ideas and have a fresh slate. Consider everything from dusting the baseboards to replacing light fixtures to adding a coat of paint to change up and freshen the new look.
rain boots,” she said, “the ask is the same.” Deep breath. That green hat I’ve loved forever? Keep. Three versions of the same jacket? Donate. The pile of single gloves? Toss. Once I got going, it became easier and faster to make those decisions.
Once you can actually see everything you’re keeping, you want what you use most often within arm’s reach. Seasonal items can go on higher or lower shelves. The sweet spot of shelving is dedicated to what I need to grab daily. Heather found beautiful baskets and bins that make me happy just to look at them. “Finding containers you love will provide so much motivation toward completing an organization project,” she said.
Now for the fun (and sometimes hard) part: touching every item in the category piles and asking myself whether something actually serves a purpose. “This is the time to rid your home of things that don’t work, things you have a better version of, things you never use and things that no longer make you happy,” says Heather. The key word here is ‘things.’ “Whether it’s an old umbrella or a new pair of
The whole goal at the end of organizing is to have no clutter. That’s right, this isn’t an attempt to harness clutter, but to eliminate it entirely. That being said, some of us live with little people who contribute to clutter every day. Heather’s advice on that subject turned out to be life-changing.
She suggests creating ONE drop zone, not several.
Finally she revealed her most important tip. “There are no exceptions to this,” she admits. “Labeling is the key to maintenance and to eliminating the pain of not being able to find something. We have so many beautiful options for labeling now that it shouldn’t even be a question. Label. Always label.”
Great advice from the top of my closet to the bottom. This is why I’ve already scheduled Heather to help me organize the entryway and kitchen! @tidystylehome
“My biggest suggestion is that you start small. Don’t aim to tackle your pantry or closet in one organizing session.”
Redefining Remodeling
Blending Craftsmanship and Design to Transform Houses into Dream Homes
ARTICLE BY JESSIE MANGUM | PHOTOGRAPHY BY YVETTE HARTRIDGE
When Joe and Kim, the husband-and-wife team behind Bexar Essentials Remodeling, first ventured into home renovations, it was out of necessity. Joe, who had spent over 25 years working in construction and earned an Associate’s Degree in Engineering Technology, founded Bexar Essentials in 2008 as a side hustle to help support their family of seven. By 2010, the side business had turned into a full-time career as Joe’s passion for construction and his commitment to quality took root.
In 2018, Kim took a leap of faith and left her full-time job to join Joe. With her background in aesthetics and a keen eye for design, she brought a fresh perspective to the business. Together, Joe and Kim created the perfect partnership, blending Joe’s technical expertise and construction experience with Kim’s design sensibilities. This combination of skills has allowed them to bring clients’ visions to life with a balance of function, style, and attention to detail.
What truly sets Bexar Essentials Remodeling apart from other remodeling companies in the industry is their comprehensive approach to each project. They are a full-service Design/Build contractor, which means that clients benefit from working with a single team for both the design and construction phases. This not only makes the process smoother but also helps reduce the risk of miscommunication and errors that can often arise when working with separate design and construction teams.
“We believe in providing transparency from the start,” says Joe. “Our clients know exactly what their project will cost before we start, thanks to our detailed planning and preparation.”
This level of transparency is key to the Bexar Essentials experience. They ensure that each client understands their budget, timeline, and scope of work from the beginning. The team’s focus on clear communication, high-quality craftsmanship, and exceptional customer service has earned them a reputation for being reliable, trustworthy, and client-focused.
At Bexar Essentials Remodeling, the use of top-quality materials is non-negotiable. The team goes to great lengths to ensure that the materials they select not only meet the aesthetic goals of the project but also ensure durability and longevity. To accomplish this, they carefully vet their suppliers and adhere to strict quality standards outlined in their contracts.
“We pride ourselves on offering the best materials in every project,” Kim explains. “From luxurious natural stones like marble and granite to top-tier custom cabinetry and professional-grade appliances, we make sure everything we use is of the highest quality.”
For high-end kitchen and bathroom remodels, Bexar Essentials frequently incorporates materials such as quartz, marble, granite, and other natural stones. These materials not only elevate the visual appeal of the space but also contribute to the overall durability and functionality of the design. The result is a remodel that looks stunning while standing the test of time.
In addition to providing high-quality materials, Bexar Essentials offers a 36-month workmanship warranty to give clients peace of mind. This warranty is a testament to their confidence in the craftsmanship and materials used in every project.
Choosing a Design-Build contractor like Bexar Essentials Remodeling offers a host of benefits for
“Our passion is helping people create spaces that fit their needs and reflect their personalities. We want every project to be a reflection of our clients’ dreams and our craftsmanship.”
clients. One of the most significant advantages is the convenience of having a single point of contact throughout the entire remodeling process. With both design and construction handled by the same team, clients don’t have to worry about coordinating between multiple parties or dealing with the potential miscommunication that can arise when working with separate design and construction teams.
“The Design-Build approach makes everything more efficient,” Kim notes. “It allows us to streamline the process, foster collaboration, and deliver projects faster and more cost-effectively.”
Clients appreciate the streamlined experience, as it simplifies the planning and execution stages, making the entire remodel less stressful. This approach also ensures that the design is fully aligned with the construction process, reducing delays and ensuring a smoother flow from concept to completion.
At Bexar Essentials, the team understands that no two clients are the same, which is why they take a personalized approach to every project. From the initial consultation to the final walk-through, they prioritize understanding the unique needs,
preferences, and lifestyle of each client. This helps them create spaces that are not only visually appealing but also functional and tailored to the client’s way of life.
“Our goal is to create spaces that work for our clients and their families,” Joe explains. “We want our clients to feel comfortable and confident in their new space, whether it’s a kitchen, bathroom, or any other area of the home.”
One of the most memorable projects for Joe was a bathroom remodel for a childhood friend diagnosed with ALS. The team worked closely with the client’s wife to ensure that the remodel met her husband’s specific medical needs while also providing a space that was beautiful and functional. The remodel included a curbless shower for easy accessibility, custom Wet Wall panels for easy maintenance, and an overall design that balanced comfort, style, and practicality.
Bexar Essentials Remodeling is committed to staying up to date with the latest design trends and technological innovations in the home remodeling industry. The team regularly attends trade shows, collaborates with designers and architects, and stays informed through industry publications to ensure they’re offering the most cutting-edge solutions to their clients.
For 2025, kitchen trends include rich, bold colors such as green, blue, and black, along with mixed metals and creative finishes. In bathrooms, expect to see spa-inspired features, backlit backsplashes, and bold patterned tiles. These design elements are all about creating spaces that are not only functional but also visually striking.
Joe and Kim’s vision for Bexar Essentials Remodeling is to continue building strong relationships with clients while consistently delivering high-quality, beautifully crafted spaces. Their goal is to stay at the forefront of industry trends and technology, ensuring that each project is both visually stunning and highly functional.
We aim to deliver high-quality, beautifully crafted projects that our clients will love and enjoy for years to come.
realty report
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MARCH 2025
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
MARCH 6TH
Taste America
Hotel Emma | 7:00 PM
Hosted by the James Beard Foundation, this event brings together top chefs to honor the restaurants that make our community unique. Join us for an intimate dinner at Hotel Emma at Pearl, where TasteTwenty host chef Geronimo Lopez of Hotel Emma and chef Nicola Blaque of The Jerk Shack will prepare a menu that highlights their signature styles.
MARCH 14TH - 16TH
St. Patrick’s Day Artisan Show
The Riverwalk
Discover the charm of the San Antonio River Walk at the St. Patrick’s Day Artisan Show, featuring over 40 booths of handmade treasures, including pottery, textiles, jewelry, woodwork, paintings, beadwork, and much more.
MARCH 15TH
In a Pickle Festival
Comal County Fairgrounds | 11:00 AM
This event aims to raise awareness for Hunter Syndrome, while offering a day of pickle fun. Enjoy up to 140 food vendors, crafters, and pickle-inspired treats like pickle corndogs and pickle Italian ice. There will also be a pickled pet parade, live music, and pickleball tournaments! The festivities kick off with the St. Patty’s Pickle 5K and Kid’s Run.
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MARCH 15TH
St. Paddy’s Day Lucky Run
Olmos Basin Park Trail | 7:30 AM
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a fun, festive run that’s as much about the holiday spirit as the finish line! Whether running, walking, or cheering on others, this 5K/10K/13.1 is a perfect way to enjoy the day with friends and family. Wear your best green gear and join us for a race full of fun!
MARCH 15TH AND 16TH
St. Patrick’s River Parade
San Antonio Riverwalk
The weekend festivities kick off with the dyeing of the river green as it is transformed into the River Shannon with eco-friendly green dye. Other events include stage entertainment at the historic Villita Historic Village and the river parade with festive, Irish themed floats and traditional Irish music.
MARCH 22ND - 23RD
San Antonio Zoo
Monarch Fest
San Antonio Zoo
Head to the Zoo for the 9th Annual Monarch Fest, a celebration of monarchs, milkweed, and their migration! The event features plant talks, seed giveaways, storytimes, unique characters, and much more. Guests of all ages can enjoy educational games, crafts, and activities while learning how to support the conservation of monarch butterflies.
