PUBLISHER
Mike Tesoriero Mike@SouthlakeStyle.com
SALES & MARKETING DIRECTOR
Nicole Tesoriero Nicole@SouthlakeStyle.com
EDITOR
Cynthia Sklodowski Cynthia@SouthlakeStyle.com
STAFF WRITER
Tim Glaze Tim@SouthlakeStyle.com
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Bruce Sons
ADVERTISING SERVICES MANAGER
Andrea Summers Andrea@SouthlakeStyle.com
When it comes to time, I’ve got a lot of it, or at least, a lot of ways to measure it. I’ve got a pocket watch, a stopwatch and several wristwatches, including an Apple Watch and a Garmin.
Yours in Southlake Style, STAFF & CONTRIBUTORS
Blame it on information overload or today’s ultra-informal dress codes, but outside of timing my training runs, I’ve worn nothing on my wrist for much of the last decade. With a phone always nearby, I didn’t miss those watches neatly tucked away in my closet— that was until I attended my first formal wedding in years. It was then that I realized my wristwear was a bit out of touch.
If yours is also failing the test of time, rest assured you’re not the only one. The good news this month is, time is literally on your side as we broach the subject of getting back in the watch-buying game with some local experts.
I’ve also come to realize that time practically stands still when it's spent with Rory, our loveable golden retriever. At home and at the office, he’s always up for a few moments of fun, a walk and a biscuit. We know you love your pets, too, and sharing their photos never gets old. That’s why we’re back at it again – this time with our friends at WoofGang Bakery and Grooming – for another installment of Stylin’ Pets. Check out some of the favorites from those uploaded by our readers and fans.
Whether you have an old watch, a new watch or a leash on your wrist, we hope you enjoy our latest issue.
SALES DEVELOPMENT
REPRESENTATIVE
Olivia Harris Olivia@SouthlakeStyle.com
MARKETING & EVENTS INTERN
Katie Neumann
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Blythe Chadim
David Dunn
OFFICE COORDINATOR
Kelly Rose
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
AYE Creator
BluDoor Studios
Mike Lewis
CONTACT US
520 E. Southlake Blvd., Suite 100
Southlake, TX 76092
817.416.4500
Mike
Tesoriero | Publisher Mike@SouthlakeStyle.com
2200 Cedar Elm Terrace*
2207 Cedar Elm Terrace
2211 Cedar Elm Terrace†
2212 Cedar Elm Terrace
2213 Cedar Elm Terrace
2214 Cedar Elm Terrace
2216 Cedar Elm Terrace†
2220 Cedar Elm Terrace
2218 Cedar Elm Terrace*
2222 Cedar Elm Terrace
2225 Cedar Elm Terrace*
2320 Cedar Elm Terrace
2322 Cedar Elm Terrace†
2305 Cedar Elm Terrace†
2005 Rock Dove Court
1700 Wisteria Way
1711 Wisteria Way
1712 Wisteria Way*
1719 Wisteria Way*
2002 Nighthawk Court†
2004 Nighthawk Court†
2005 Nighthawk Court
2201 King Fisher Drive†
2215 King Fisher Drive*
2225 King Fisher Drive
2203 King Fisher Drive*
2254 King Fisher Drive†
1122 Post Oak Drive*
1126 Post Oak Place
1401 Post Oak Place*
1405 Post Oak Place
1208 Perdenalas Trail*
1211 Perdenalas Trail
2001 Brazos Court
2003 Brazos Court
*Represented Buyer
†Represented Buyer and Seller
2006 Brazos Court
2001 Navasota Cove*
2006 Navasota Cove
2002 Scissortail Place
2003 Scissortail Place 2026 Granada Trail*
2003 White Wing Cove
2102 Rock Rose Court
1817 Broken Bend Drive
1849 Broken Bend Drive*
1604 Sleepy Hollow Court
1801 Copperfield Court*
1760 Terra Bella Drive
5924 Mahotea Boone Trail*
2210 Barcelona Court*
1609 Meandering Way†
1609 Meandering Way
1509 Forest Knoll Drive*
1806 Quail Hollow Drive*
1810 Quail Hollow Drive*
1808 Glade Court*
1482 Forest Knoll Drive† 1750 Trace Bella Court
1764 Hidden Springs Court
1859 Post Oak Place
1408 Post Oak Drive
1702 Cypress Way*
1707 Cypress Way†
655 Carlyle Court
26 Comillas Drive*
1407 Fountain Grass Court*
1408 Fountain Grass Court
1826 Seville Cove
1702 Carlyle Cour
1901 Gaillardia Court
Sice
23
LEVY EVENT PLAZA, IRVING
FEB. 22
Send winter out with a bang this year! Frost Fest is on the way, bringing a free, family-friendly winter wonderland to Irving for one day only. It’s all of the fun of a snowy winter, like tubing hills and a play area where kids can frolic in fluffy snow, minus the icy roads and slushy sidewalks. The event will also feature face painting, bounce houses, free train rides, caricature artists, crafts, food vendors and tons of fun photo ops.
Organize some play dates or a puppy party.
Schedule in time for extra-long walks around Lake Grapevine.
Treat your four-legged friend to a spa day.
Read your dog a book. No, really – many dogs find it calming.
Hit up Woof Gang for some extra special oven-baked treats.
Head to one of Southlake’s spacious dog parks, like Boo Boo Buddies on N. Whites Chapel.
Book a doggy daycare so your pet can run out some of that energy.
Set a goal to teach Fido some new tricks. And yes, older dogs can still pick up a thing or ten.
Surprise your pet with a new toy.
Give your pooch some extra snuggles every day.
New Byron Nelson Deceleration Lane proves good things come to those who wait.
Texas DMV rejected more than 2,000 vanity plate requests for obscenities in 2024.
POST MARK Grapevine's Post Malone leaves 'rockstar' $20,000 tip to local waitress.
ASS-ININE DRIVER... ...has accident on Southlake Blvd. Thankfully, the donkey was not injured.
FEBRUARY SUBMISSION
We'd like to go with you on your next adventure. Take along your copy of Southlake Style, and snap a photo. Share the image with us, and you might see yourself in our next edition! Be sure to include names of those pictured and your destination.
Upload photos at SouthlakeStyle.com or use the QR code.
• Full Frame Window Replacement
• Glass Replacement in Existing Frame
• Frameless Showers
• Foggy Window Repair
• Window Cleaning
A new group of guests check in to the White Lotus in Thailand for the third season of this Emmy Award-winning satire. While Jennifer Coolidge has since checked out, Michelle Monaghan, Walton Goggins and Patrick Schwarzenegger are amongst the latest guests taking part in some hotel hijinks.
On Max February 16
In between starring alongside Joaquin Phoenix in “Joker: Folie a Deux” and collaborating with Bruno Mars on her latest single, Lady Gaga has had quite a busy year. Now the pop icon returns to her roots with her first full-length album since 2020’s “Chromatica.” Photo by John Esparza
Available This Month
Harrison Ford and Helen Mirren saddle up once again to defend the Dutton Ranch against Donald Whitfield and his men in the second season of Taylor Sheridan’s hit “Yellowstone” prequel. Photo by Trae Patton/Paramount
On Paramount+ February 23
Renee Zellweger returns as Britain’s most beloved singleton as she enters a new era of life, romance and motherhood.
Pulitzer Prize-winning author Anne Tyler tells a story about a socially awkward mother navigating the chaos leading up to her daughter’s wedding day.
On Peacock February 13
Available February 11
What makes Discover Strength different?
At Discover Strength, we know that busy people don't have time to waste on a workout that doesn't work. We understand you’re busy. Discover Strength delivers 30-minute strength workouts twice per week with an expert trainer. We will help you look and feel your best in a fraction of the time.
Is cardio or strength training more effective for losing weight? Cardio is beneficial for mitigating the risk of cardiovascular disease but is not effective for weight or fat loss. After doing cardio, our EEPA (energy expenditure due to physical activity) decreases for the rest of the day.
Will strength training improve my body composition? Absolutely – in two primary ways. First, when we add muscle, our resting metabolic rate increases, so we burn more calories at rest and store less fat. Strength training also increases caloric expenditure by 5-9% for 3 days following a workout. More calories burned means less stored fat. Total body training is key because the more muscle tissue we train, the more pronounced this benefit.
Why do we focus on slow movement speed and minimizing momentum? Slow movement produces better results because the central nervous system is forced to recruit more motor units and muscle fibers when momentum is not helping. It is safer because it reduces the forces imposed on the joints and connective tissue.
What is the importance of workout frequency/rest days? We don’t get stronger or reap benefits from strength training; we reap benefits when we allow recovery between workouts. Studies indicate that 2 full days of recovery between strength workouts is optimal.
Why is momentary muscle failure the goal as opposed to a set number of reps?
Four reps with a heavy weight or 44 reps with a light weight are the same neuromuscular experience. Strength training to failure is the most important lever that we can pull to increase our caloric expenditure from exercise.
Will strength training improve my cardiovascular health? Yes, strength training improves cardiovascular function and mitigates cardiovascular disease risk. It also increases the pliability of our blood vessels, reduces resting blood pressure and reduces the risk of death from all causes in men who have high blood pressure.
D“Run, don't walk to this fabulous establishment. The food is incredible and the staff is amazing.”
— Kailyn
elucca Gaucho Pizza is a “Casual Plus” eatery serving a five-course dining experience including endless pizzas brought directly to the table rodizio-style. This unique culinary experience draws inspiration from a traditional way of enjoying pizzas in South America’s gaucho culture. Inspired by their success with Churrascaria Steakhouses with their endless servings of roasted meat for one set price, the gauchos developed a similar style of eatery called Rodizio de Pizza where guests could enjoy unlimited samplings of handcrafted pizzas in a casual yet elegant setting. Almost overnight, it became a huge success.
Brazilian immigrant, Sergio Blanco, is the proud General Manager that opened this first location in Southlake in 2018, becoming the cornerstone for expansion to Fort Worth, Dallas, Plano and Austin. While Delucca has been delighting customers with the same scrumptious made-from scratch pizzas and expertly crafted cocktails, some things have changed. Seasonal Pizzas, Cocktails, Mocktails, Brunch and Bar Bites have been added, and the wine list has been carefully curated with quality and value for the money in mind.
What hasn’t changed is that every morning, chefs stretch blocks of natural curd cheese by hand to
transform them into Fior di Latte mozzarella. Dough is hand made from the finest ingredients, and the velvety smooth tomato sauce is made from scratch, using only the finest San Marzano tomatoes and seasonings. Guests can also savor Brazilian specialties like the Chicken Catupiry Pizza, international flavors like the Turkish Lamb or Chicken Tikka Masala Pizzas and vegetarian options like the Four Cheese & Truffle Pizza.
Each meal includes an arugula salad with lemon honey vinaigrette, scratch-made lobster bisque, Wagyu meatballs and a rotation of endless savory and dessert pizzas, like Dulce de Leche or Nutella. Delucca also serves exceptional wines and craft cocktails or mocktails in a lively and stylish Bossa Nova-filled atmosphere.
Gluten free, vegan, and kosher options are available upon request. It’s truly a unique pizza experience perfect for any occasion: a fun date night, family gathering or large group celebration.
Ad d ing yet another accolade to the already formidable list, Southlake's Annette AddoYobo was named First Runner Up at the 2025 Miss America Pageant on Jan. 5. The Ghanaian native, who immigrated to the U.S. with her family in 1999 and officially became a citizen in 2022, made it to Miss America after previously being named Miss Dallas, Miss Southlake and Miss Texas.
Jumping into the pageant circuit was an intimidating feat for Annette. "I had no prep and no idea what I was getting myself into," she said. "I just showed up [for the Miss Dallas pageant] with a travel-sized suitcase, my purse and a plastic bag for my garments. I
saw all of these girls with wheeling closets and tons of suitcases, and I was thinking to myself, ‘I’m not going to win.’ To my surprise, I ended up winning Miss Dallas on my very first try."
Annette says that her pageant victories were a kind of thank you to her parents, who "left everything behind [in Ghana]" so she and her brother could have a better life in America.
"My mom would have loved to know this was worth everything they left behind," she said. "To be able to see her children are all successful and doing these incredible things, it’s a great honor to kind of give back to my parents for all they had to give up just to be here."
restaurants scattered throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex) and in menu choices (now including smoked chicken, chicken tenders and catfish, to name a few).
Babe’s is also no stranger to national recognition: the restaurant was named “Best Family Restaurant in Texas” by Official Best of America and was featured on Food Network’s “Best Thing I Ever Ate.”
Tickets are on sale to the public for the 28th annual Fashion Show and Benefit put on by the National Charity League of Southlake. The event takes place March 2 at the Hurst Conference Center. Doors open at 2 p.m. and festivities begin at 4 p.m. 100% of all proceeds directly impact different community organizations, including the Carroll Dragons Special Olympics, GRACE Feed Our Kids, The Humane Society of North Texas and The Gifting Project of Southlake. The dollar goal for this year’s event is $110,000, which is the amount raised at the 2024 event.
Two Southlake Fire Department crews were honored with awards from Baylor Grapevine Hospital in December for their timely and life-saving actions last year. Field Training Officer JP Adams and Firefighter/EMT Landon Beck were presented with the "STEMI of the Year Award," awarded for "incredible work and coordination" between EMS providers and hospital staff in July and September 2024. Firefighter/EMTs Spencer Johnson and Brady Tackett, and Lieutenant Ryan Sessums were also recognized, but were not present for the award. The second award went to Firefighter/Paramedic Chase Villarreal, Firefighter/EMT Colby McSpedden, FTO Nic Miles and Lieutenant Frank Molinets for their timely response and actions during a cardiac arrest call in September.
After being crowned Lone Star Cup champions for the 2023-2024 school year, Southlake Carroll stands to amass another impressive haul of points for the 2024-2025 year thus far. The first update from the University Interscholastic League for the current school year was after publishing on Jan. 24, and included points awarded for team tennis, marching band, military marching band, cross country, volleyball, BEST robotics, football, spirit and congress. Carroll is expected to be awarded a large amount of points for the school’s cross-country state championship and the football team’s runner-up finish in the 6A state championship, among others. Given annually, schools in each classification earn points based on their athletics teams’ performances in district and state championships. The winning school in each classification receives the UIL Lone Star Cup trophy and a $1,000 scholarship. Carroll also won the 6A Lone Star Cup in 2014-15, 2018-19 and 2021-22.
Quinn Ewers is officially going pro. The former Carroll Dragon and Texas Longhorn announced Jan. 15 that he will forgo his remaining year of NCAA eligibility and enter the 2025 NFL Draft, to be held April 24 in Green Bay. “These past three years have been some of the best years I could’ve imagined,” Ewers said in a video on X. “I’m truly thankful for the opportunity to play football in my home state at the best university in the world... With prayer and careful consideration, I’m officially declaring for the NFL Draft.” Ewers leaves Texas third in program history in completions (737), passing yards (9,128) and passing touchdowns (68). In what will now be labeled his final college season, Ewers threw for 2,472 yards and 31 TDs with 12 interceptions. He also ran for four scores.
Photo Courtesy of Athletic Brewing Co.
After wildfires rampaged through Southern California in January, one local company decided to help – even though they are located over 1,000 miles away. Southlake-based luxury private jet company Stella Jets, in a partnership with Bobby Lashley Outreach, sent a jet full of donations to those in need in California following the recent wildfires. An Amazon donation wish list has also been created for those that want to purchase and donate more items.
Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport saw 750,167 flight operations in 2024, making it the third-busiest airport in the country last year behind only Atlanta (the country’s busiest airport with 802,423 flight operations) and Chicago O’Hare (776,854). Per OAG Aviation, D-FW was the fifthbusiest global airport by seats purchased in the world in 2024, behind only Dubai International, Atlanta HartsfieldJackson, Tokyo International and London Heathrow. Atlanta, D-FW and Denver International (no. 7 overall) were the only domestic airports to make the top ten in seats purchased in 2024. The Federal Aviation Administration said the 2023/2024 cancellation rate of 1.2 percent of all flights in the country was the lowest it had been since 2016.
Mason & Dixie, the charming Main Street bistro known for its homey interior and delicious made-from-scratch dishes, has closed its doors. Owner Beth Newman announced the closure after the property's new landlord opted not to offer a lease extension. Mason & Dixie began as “a six-table restaurant in an antique store,” Newman said. Eleven years later, the restaurant with enormous fanfare will be closing. “I give immense thanks to everyone who has dined with us, whether you've been dining with us for years or recently found us," Newman said. “I am so humbled and grateful for your continued support, your loyalty is what kept me in business, and I am truly honored to have served you.”
Primark, one of Europe's favorite fast-fashion brands, is coming to Grapevine Mills Mall later in 2025, set to open in part of the space occupied by Burlington. Primark started in Dublin in 1969 and has continued to grow, gaining major popularity in Europe and now the US. The chain features trendy clothing and accessories for all ages, as well as beauty products and home goods. They are also known to collaborate with celebrities and even Disney for special collections. The company prides itself on maintaining a high-quality standard by selling its wares exclusively in brick-and-mortar stores. In addition, Primark places emphasis on sustainability in various ways, one of which is its free online Repair Workshops, teaching skills like button sewing, zipper repair and mending holes.
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Whether marking a significant occasion, appreciation for fine craftsmanship or simply as an eye-popping accessory for a sophisticated night on the town, there are many reasons people turn to luxury watches. For shoppers in search of the perfect timepiece,
there is no shortage of places to look in the area. We caught up with a few local experts who weighed in on what to consider when the time is right for your next high-quality timepiece.
Kyle Hanson-Arenas of Markham Fine Jewelers, which recently reopened in Southlake Town Square, has found that many of his customers are in the market for “quiet luxury”—elegant but inconspicuous watches that are suited for everyday wear. Featuring watches from Longines, Omega, Breitling and TAG Heuer, all high-end Swiss watchmakers, Markham is certainly suited to meet that demand. Watches from these luxury brands and others can range anywhere from $1,600 to $45,000.
“What's really nice about the four brands that we carry in our store is that we have something for everyone regardless of taste or budget,” Hanson-Arenas said.
aviation world, and its timepieces have long been favorites of the British Royal Air Force and the US Air Force. The recently unveiled Omega Speedmaster Pilot is an homage to the original 1957 edition and still features a unique matte finish that eliminates light reflections, making it one of the world's easiest-to-read timepieces.
The updated Speedmaster Pilot maintains the traditional matte finish while incorporating both a 12-hour and a 60-minute subdial on the face. The two dials give the wearer the kind of precise instruments that make Omega so popular among pilots. Priced at $9,500, it is both strikingly fashionable and durable thanks to its Kevlar(™) threads and classic stainless steel band.
Following newer trends in materials and colors, Omega has updated its popular Seamaster Diver 300M collection. The new edition has swapped out stainless steel for Grade 2 Titanium. The new iteration moves away from the familiar ceramic style of recent years, and instead takes inspiration from the Seamaster Diver 300M 007 Edition, which was worn by Daniel Craig in the James Bond film, No Time To Die. Priced at $10,700, the timepiece includes the same domed sapphire crystal, giving it a vintage aesthetic, while the green aluminum dial accented with bronze gold presents a timeless classic in the latest color palette and style.
For every Bond, there’s a Bond girl, and TAG Heuer's Carrera line of watches combines sleek design with complexity
and craftsmanship for both men and women. Priced around $3,000, the Carrera Date is one of the larger women's watches available on the market with a 36 mm case. It is water-resistant for up to 50 meters, features automatic movement, and incorporates several intricate designs. But perhaps more importantly, the Carrera Date watch case is available in vibrant shades of hot pink, royal blue, silver and sunburst green.
For those uninitiated in the timepiece world, the question comes to mind: What differentiates a watch that costs a couple of hundred dollars from a watch that costs many thousands of dollars? In high-end watches, a notable portion of the price depends upon the precious metals and stones incorporated into the watch’s design. The prestige of a brand, too, plays a role, and the major Swiss watchmakers command the highest prices.
The most significant aspect in determining a watch’s price, though, has to do with its “movement”— the mechanisms inside the watch that enable it to tell time. Most lower (under $200) and mid-priced (under $1,000) watches typically use quartz-powered batteries to tell time, an efficient and affordable alternative to traditional clockmaking that emerged in the 1970s. On the contrary, luxury watches are almost exclusively mechanical or automatic movement. Mechanical movement requires daily winding to ensure that the complex set of wheels and gears continue to tell time
accurately. Automatic movement makes the complex pro-
“Typically, the more complicated the movement, the better the finishing on a watch, and the higher the jewel count, the more expensive it is,” said Todd Comitini, master watchmaker at Garner Wallace Fine Timepieces and Jewelry in Keller. Garner Wallace sells primarily pre-owned Rolex watches. Comitini has been repairing watches for nearly 25 years. Over the course of his career, he has worked on over 20,000 Rolexes. Pre-owned Rolexes at Garner Wallace can range in price from $2,000 to $20,000.
Maintaining a luxury watch also requires some forethought. High-end timepieces with automatic movement require, well, movement to stay in top form. This means that owners should commit to regularly wearing the watch or investing in a watch winder to keep the gears in motion. In addition, it’s worth considering that warranties on watches are generally between two and eight years. Beyond that, making sure your sartorial purchase is in secure hands by finding a watchmaker who is authorized to repair your specific brand is imperative.
“Typically, either the main spring will have broken or the watch will be gaining or losing time,” Comitini said. The Rolex expert adds that unless your watch is designed with the outdoors in mind, it should be kept out of the elements.
Just like when purchasing a certified pre-owned car, customers in the market for a pre-owned or vintage luxury timepiece would be wise to rely on local expertise. Local dealers are not only a fine spot to get your favorite watch repaired, they also have a great selection of classic wristwear that has been properly restored. Beyond selection, working with an expert will help you avoid unknowingly investing in the evergrowing online market for knockoff luxury watches.
“We see people bringing them in trying to get them fixed up. The knockoffs don’t last very long, but they are getting really good. You need a professional to identify them,” said John Arbach of Kyle’s Jewelry in Lewisville. Kyle’s has been in business for nearly 15 years and John has been a part of the family business for the last ten.
The Lewisville store focuses on pre-owned watches. Their most affordable watches from brands like Seiko and Citizens go for a few hundred dollars. They carry luxury brands like TAG Heuer, Cartier, and Rolex, which can cost more than $10,000.
“Most of our watches are good startups for people looking to buy their first Rolex or other luxury watch,” Arbach said.
When it comes to luxury timepieces, 2025 is already shaping up to be a year of bold aesthetics and refined craftsmanship. From vibrant hues like pinks and greens to the timeless elegance of brown and green dials, color plays a central role in the story of modern watch design. Textured straps in leather and durable rubber provide a luxury appeal, as do smaller, more intricate case sizes. On the opposite end of the spectrum, there has also been a marked shift for some women toward more traditionally masculine sizes. “Right now, many women are getting more interested in bigger watches. 36 mm, for example, used to be primarily a man's watch,” says Arbach.
Meanwhile, timeless materials like gold continue to ex ude luxury, and titanium remains highly sought-after for its durability and lightweight comfort. The beauty of buy ing a watch is that so many of the elements are easy to customize.
“We can accessorize afterward with a strap and appro priate buckle,” Hanson-Arenas said. "That's one of my fa vorite parts about selling timepieces is how we can make a look truly and uniquely you.”
The emergence of smartwatches, such as the Apple Watch, has put a significant dent in the low and midpriced watch market but, according to the experts, has had little impact on the luxury watch business.
“The Apple and Samsung watches are great but the people wearing those are looking to keep track of their steps or sleep patterns. The Swiss watch world has been pretty much unaffected by that,” Markham’s Hanson-Are nas said. “A lot of our clients actually wear smart watches on one wrist while wearing their luxury watch on the other wrist,” he continued.
No matter whether your style is trendy or traditional, buying a watch is no different than any high-end pur chase. Doing your research, finding a reputable seller and making sure that your choice aligns with your needs and style are the most important aspects.
Hanson-Arenas would agree. “The only two questions I use are ‘Do you love it’ and ‘Are you going to wear it?’ The conversation doesn't have to go any further than that.”
Photos courtesy of Omega, Rolex and Tag Heuer.
Fragrances that make a lasting impression p. 28
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is a “floral declaration of love."
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Cardamom and Australian sandalwood combine to make this addictively alluring scent, now a cult classic for those in the know.
Le Labo | 1.7 oz, $235
This woody unisex musk evokes memories of park walks as hints of cedar mingle with Ambrette seeds.
Nordstrom | 1.7 oz, $205
Te nnis legend Roger Federer once famously said, “I don't wear a Rolex to tell the time. I wear a Rolex because it's the best watch in the world.” He may get paid to say that, but the facts remain— Swiss watches like Rolex, Patek Philippe and Tag Heuer are so well-crafted that they can last for generations when well cared for.
This is where the elegant Axis 3-Watch Winder by venerated German company WOLF comes in. With a modern, yet timeless silhouette, this meticulously handcrafted, leatherclad winder is the perfect match for the finest mechanical and automatic movement timepieces in both looks and precision.
The patented technology guarantees 900 bi-directional Turns Per Day (TPD), ideal for keeping gears precisely in motion without
adding unnecessary stress. It also features intermittent rotation with pre-programmed pause and sleep phases. Each versatile cuff is even designed to fit larger and heavier watches, accommodating cases up to 52mm with a mechanism that securely locks into the rotator drum for extra peace of mind.
Sleek lines are enhanced with a powdercoated, copper-plated, laser-cut steel plate that infuses even more sophistication into the design. In addition, an integrated storage compartment adds another layer of utility. With the Axis line, expect superior quality, thoughtful design and the nearly 200 years of prestige associated with the WOLF brand, making this winder a worthy investment for any serious watch collector.
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Helping people through life's greatest challenges is both our purpose and our promise. “
- Nicole Carroll, Partner
goal is
- Todd Rodgers
Since 2007, the Hilton Dallas/Southlake Town Square has been committed to providing exemplary guest services inside a luxurious hotel setting. And it’s the people behind the Hilton that help make that happen, from room service to the on-site concierges. General Manager Todd Rodgers and Director of Sales & Marketing Tammy Gillespie are two of those people who work behind the scenes every day to make the Hilton Dallas/Southlake Town Square the glamorous and exciting hotel that it is. From managing extensive renovation and conversion projects to supervising the daily operations of the hotel, a lot of hard work, dedication and consistency goes into delivering a first-rate experience at the Hilton Dallas/Southlake Town Square.
Hilton Dallas/Southlake Town Square
817.442.9900 Hilton.com FACE of Hospitality
If you don’t know jewelry, know the jeweler.
- Darla Stapleton
FACE of Fine Jewelry
Darla Stapleton has always had a passion for jewelry and diamonds. Working with luxury jewelry for over 30 years, Darla has a high level of expertise when it comes to catering to her client’s specific jewelry needs. Today, she continues to be a trusted personal jeweler through her own business, D-Flawless Concierge Jewelers. From the moment people walk into her private showroom, guests are guided through her exquisite selections while sipping on a glass of champagne or wine. Darla believes in treating people well, which means providing the utmost in honesty, integrity, pricing and personal attention. When you visit D-Flawless Concierge Jewelers, you’ll know that Darla is the premier jewelry expert you can trust.
D-Flawless Concierge Jewelers 817.416.0825 DFlawlessJewelers.com
Brandon Pollard
- Volkan Tekinkoc, General Manager
As general manager of The Westin Dallas Southlake, Volkan Tekinkoc exemplifies excellence in hospitality. With over 17 years of experience, Volkan has led the hotel to rank No. 1 in guest satisfaction amongst 240 Westin properties worldwide. Under his leadership, The Westin Dallas Southlake has also earned the AAA Four Diamond Award three years in a row, won the Gold Badge Award from U.S. News & Report and was recognized as one of Dallas’ best hotels by “Travel + Leisure Magazine.” Having recently been named Marriott International’s 2024 Full-Service General Manager of the Year, Volkan Tekinkoc is a hands-on leader who prioritizes guest satisfaction, inspires his team and embraces the spirit of world-class hospitality.
Westin Dallas Southlake 817.873.1900 www.marriott.com/dalws
- Maria Diaz Sierra
Raised in a family of architects, Maria was empowered with a deep knowledge of real estate and development while growing up. By the time she moved to the DFW Metroplex, she had already worked as a real estate agent for over a decade. Bringing a wealth of experience to the area, Maria helps deliver the best results possibe for her clients. With her happy, positive attitude nicely complementing her sharp customer service and negotiating skills, Maria is a natural at understanding her client’s unique needs and going after them with great focus, dedication and tenacity. No matter what type of home you’re searching for, you can trust her to take you in the right direction. Maria Diaz Sierra
Owned and operated by health and wellness practitioner
Dr. Bryce Calvillo and nutritionist Angela Calvillo, SciFit Center offers one of the most unique and successful weight loss programs in the industry. With an all-encompassing treatment approach for weight loss, nutrition, exercise and overall health and wellness, the program includes weekly one-on-one appointments for guidance and accountability, as well as Fit3D Body Scanner check-ins to monitor your progress. Food sensitivity testing reveals which foods are best for your metabolism, and weight loss injections help reduce cravings and control your appetite. Plus with an expert team of highly qualified health professionals, Dr. Bryce and Angela have successfully revolutionized their new approach to weight loss. SciFit Center healthylife@scifitcenter.com SciFitCenter.com
We strive to provide the highest level of care for our patients from beginning to end.
- Angela Bowers, M.D.
FACE of Dermatology
When it comes to dermatology, you need an expert professional that you can trust to provide the highest level of care from beginning to end. At Southlake Dermatology, Dr. Angela Bowers and Dr. Kathrene Tajnert practice all aspects of dermatology, whether it’s medical, surgical or cosmetic. Since opening in Southlake Town Square in 1999, Southlake Dermatology has made a difference in the lives of over 100,000 patients. You can trust Southlake Dermatology to provide excellent care with an empathetic, genuine staff.
Southlake Dermatology 817.251.6500 SouthlakeDermatology.com
“ We set the tone for the quality of life for thousands of people in North Texas and want to transform the lives of our community.
- Theron Young
From the time customers pick up the phone to the minute the job is finished, Legacy Plumbing seeks to “wow” the customer every time. Voted the highestrated plumber in DFW by Yelp reviewers, Legacy Plumbing is a residential and commercial plumbing company serving the majority of the North Texas region. While customer satisfaction and technical excellence are top priorities for the award-winning company, founders Michelle and Theron Young have an even bigger mission in giving back to those in need. Whether they’re building houses, cleaning up parks, helping with food drives or donating to organizations like the Water Project and Arms for Hope, Legacy Plumbing does much more than keep the water flowing – they’re committed to making North Texas a better place for everyone. Legacy Plumbing 469.294.2868
“ Money can buy you a fine dog, but only love can make him wag his tail.
- Kinky Friedman
sponsored by GYPSY POMERANIAN 9 years old
LUNA STANDARD POODLE 2 years old
Stylin’ Pets is back again for another year, featuring some of the most adorable four-legged friends in Southlake. We asked readers and fans to send in a portrait of their favorite pets on SouthlakeStyle. com and received nearly 50 submissions. Here are just some of the fabulous pics that made our whole staff smile.
Fcloth dining experience for Chicago residents thanks to its superior quality of premium cuts. With the franchise expanding to three locations total in the past year, Rosebud has officially come to Texas with the opening of its new Southlake restaurant.
Rosebud Steakhouse
2102 E. State Hwy. 114
Southlake
817.634.5050
RosebudSteak.com
Situated within District 114 next door to Roots & Water, this Chicago staple sources its meat from Black Angus cattle born and raised in the Blue Branch Ranch in Oklahoma. With Meats By Linz as their exclusive purveyor, Rosebud only serves the finest cuts.
says CEO Angelo Eliades. “We originally looked for a location in downtown Dallas, but once we saw the Southlake space, we just fell in love with it.”
With an elegant and refined dining room that can host up to 200 guests, the restaurant can accommodate both large groups as well as smaller, more intimate gatherings. The island-shaped bar proudly displays over 60 wine varieties and 18 different types of Scotch on the shelf, and the covered patio can comfortably seat an additional
150 people with a perfect view of the center’s 28-foot-tall “Fury” dragon sculpture.
When it’s time to eat, the steakhouse has several out-of-this-world appetizers that are as extravagant as every other aspect of the restaurant. The lamb lollipops are tender, juicy and melt in your mouth. Meanwhile, diners will need to break out their forks and knives for the steakhouse’s take on pork belly. Plus the seafood offerings are plentiful with Maryland crab cakes, oysters, lobster and an elevated shrimp cocktail served with their signature spicy Atomic Horseradish.
As far as the entrees go, Rosebud emphasizes an Italian influence inspired by its sister concept, Coppolillo’s. From chicken parmesan and calabrese to rigatoni vodka and spaghetti, all of their pastas are made in-house, while the salmon piccata, sea bass and dover sole are just as fresh on the seafood side. Even more options are waiting under the favorites menu, which includes everything from Berkshire pork chops to Rosebud’s famous steakhouse burger. Plus,there are several high-end a la carte sides that can be ordered alongside your entree, whether that be baked mac n’ cheese, cauliflower au gratin or crispy brussels sprouts with Nueske’s bacon.
Of course, the stars of the show are its meat selections, all of which are either dry or wetaged. The featured cut is a hefty 22-ounce bone-in ribeye that’s a Chicago staple, but the 16-ounce Kansas City Strip imparts just as strong a flavor thanks to being dry-aged for 40 days. The veal and lamb chops are perfectly cooked to your desired temperature, and extra enhancements can be added for even more savoriness, including brandy peppercorn, truffle butter and bearnaise sauce.
End your meal on a sweet note with one of its delightful dessert options. You can’t go wrong with the traditional cheesecake or carrot cake, but the chocolate and butter cake is even more rich and decadent. The key lime pie is just as tangy as it is sweet, but if it’s a lighter bite you crave, the multi-layered tiramisu is equally creamy and delicious.
From its inviting atmosphere to its exemplary service and even better entrees, Rosebud Steakhouse is another welcome addition to Southlake’s dining community.
“Bringing the Rosebud Steakhouse brand and our Meats by Linz quality to District 114 is a testament to our commitment to delivering exceptional dining experiences,” Angelo says. “We’re thrilled to… introduce this iconic restaurant to the vibrant Southlake community.”
Valentine’s Day is once again upon us, and love is in the air. Or at least, it seems so as shops overflow with pink and red heartshaped boxes of confectionary delights. You might be thinking, “How is this even a real holiday?” And then, “How can I make this year’s gift stand out?” Lucky for you, we’ve got answers for both.
Valentine’s Day started out as a feast in honor of the martyred 3rd-century St. Valentine. Oddly enough, the celebration didn’t have anything to do with love until 14th-century poet Geoffrey Chaucer
wrote a poem solidifying the day into a celebration of affection. Since then, couples around the world have used February 14th to show loved ones their devotion, often in the form of sweet treats – like chocolate. And really, what better way to express your love? Chocolate has become a timeless symbol of romance, evoking passion and indulgence. From creamy truffles to decadent cake, chocolate has a special ability to enhance anything from a fresh strawberry to the joy of any occasion. With this sea of choices, we’ve found three local chocolate savants who will truly raise the bar for your future celebrations.
Walking into one of Kate Weiser Chocolate’s DFW shops is a sensorial delight. Known for her eponymous hand-paint ed chocolates, this California Culinary Academy graduate, who honed her craft as a pastry chef at iconic restaurants like Stephan Pyles and Nobu, knows how to create a showstopping dessert. The Dallas-based chocolatier even land ed a spot on Oprah’s coveted “Favorite Things” list in 2018. Case in point: her bonbons. They are almost too aesthet ically stunning to eat. Note that we said “almost.” That’s because these artfully decorated confections are somehow even more delicious than they are beautiful. While perfect any time of the year, these treats truly shine around Valen tine’s Day, nestled inside a heart-shaped box. Nothing says “I love you” better than an assortment of these perfectly crafted parcels in mouth-watering flavors like Cookies N' Cream, Sea Salt Caramel Hazelnut, Red Wine and Berries, and Passion Fruit. KateWeiserChocolate.com
CHOCOLATE HANGOVER
Chocolate Hangover has made a name for itself as one of the must-try locations on Grapevine’s Main Street. There’s a good reason for that. Owner Jennifer Dean pulls out all the stops, offering over 50 flavors of Texas-shaped truffles and more than 100 varieties of fudge. True to the name, the shop also features a selection of chocolates infused with indulgent spirits like single malt scotch, añejo tequila, tawny port and Irish cream. And for a more lighthearted – though 21-and-up – treat, there are boozy push-up pops that are guaranteed to delight.
For Valentine’s Day, a thoughtfully curated assortment from Chocolate Hangover will unquestionably win you brownie points. With Texas Truffle flavors ranging from the classics, like dark chocolate, raspberry and caramel sea salt, to the truly unique, like jalapeño, crème brulée and cabernet, it’s easy to customize the perfect present for that special someone. ChocolateHangover.com
Chocolates and roses are undeniably a Valentine’s Day staple. At D’Caramel on East Southlake Boulevard, they’re one and the same in the most stunning fashion. Chef Anna Narinan, who trained under the likes of world-renowned pastry chefs like Cedric Grolet, Stephane Glacier, Daniel Alvarez and Francois Brunet, has already turned the Southlake patisserie into the ultimate destination for anyone craving European-infused pastry goodness. Customers rave about delectable treats like Paris-Brest, eclairs, macarons, croissants, three-dimensional tarts and canelé. Their signature rose-shaped Raspberry Chocolate is no exception. Take your holiday to the next level as rich chocolate combines with tangy raspberry to satisfy any sweet tooth and leave you craving more. The shop is also featuring an array of fan-favorite heart-shaped treats, as well as a carefully selected “I love you” set, ideal for expressing just how deep your sentiments go.
CDCaramelPatisserie.com
In what is sure to be one of the most “Popular” events of the new year, the magic of “Wicked” (2024), starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, arrives in Arlington for a bewitching experience you won’t want to miss. From Jan. 17 to April 27, 2025, the Arlington Museum of Art welcomes fans of theater, film and fashion to experience the spellbinding power of visual storytelling with its free, limited-engagement exhibit, “Wicked Threads: The Artistry of Costume in Oz.”
Visitors of all ages will enjoy a rare glimpse into the craftsmanship behind some of Oz’s most iconic looks, including Glinda’s dazzling “bubble” dress and Elphaba’s unforgettable “Defying Gravity” ensemble. Designed by Academy Award-nominee Paul Tazewell and provided by
NBCUniversal Archives & Collections, these costumes will transport you to the Land of Oz and have you singing along to Stephen Schwartz’s Grammy- and Oscar-winning original songs.
Celebrate the storied history behind “Wicked,” from its Broadway origins to its cinematic debut, as you immerse yourself in the props, images and designs that showcase the evolution of this timeless tale of friendship, power and self-discovery. Whether you’ve been enchanted by the stage musical or fallen in love with “Wicked” on the big screen, this exhibit is your chance to step into the magic of Oz.
Plan your visit for this unforgettable celebration of storytelling and design before it’s gone “For Good.” Photo by Giles Keyte/Universal Pictures
DETAILS THROUGH APRIL 27, 2025
ARLINGTON MUSEUM OF ART
SOUTHLAKE SPRING FESTIVAL
FEBRUARY 1
feb 1
SOUTHLAKE TOWN SQUARE | Experience a vibrant com munity celebration of the Lunar New Year at the Southlake Spring Festival. This free, local event highlights the beauty and diversity of East and Southeast Asian cultures, offering a perfect way to brighten the gray winter days. With Southlake's signature hospitality, attendees can savor delectable foods and enjoy captivating performances steeped in tradition.
JIM GAFFIGAN: EVERYTHING IS WONDERFUL TOUR
FEBRUARY 1
DICKIES ARENA | Grab a Hot Pocket and get ready to laugh ‘til your sides hurt as three-time Emmy award-winning comedian and New York Times best-selling author Jim Gaffigan takes the stage in his new show, “Everything is Wonderful!” This clean comic, known for his intensely relatable observational humor, will have you bucking with laughter. Don’t miss Gaffigan’s final performance of the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo’s Auditorium Entertainment Series on Feb. 1, 2025.
VALENTINES YOGA
FEBRUARY 8
feb 8
COLLEYVILLE CENTER | A Valentine’s Day-themed workout offers a perfect opportunity for mood-boosting self-care with loved ones. This free community event at the Colleyville Center features a fun and festive yoga class and Valentine’s treats courtesy of Inspire Yoga - Colleyville. This upbeat class will leave you feeling recharged and rejuvenated. Ages 12 and up.
FEBRUARY 1-9
THE FORD CENTER AT THE STAR | You’ll feel the “Love” this February with tickets to the Dal las Open. As an ATP 500-level tournament with over $2.8 million in prize money, this exclusive event attracts men’s top world tennis players in both singles and doubles. With past com petitors including John McEnroe, Pete Sampras, Andy Roddick and Andy Murray, you can ex pect the best men’s tennis has to offer.
FEBRUARY 11-16
BASS HALL | “Get Ready” to dance in your seat to the soulful melodies and smooth harmonies of chart-topping R&B group The Temptations. The Tony Award-winning Broadway smashhit “Ain’t Too Proud” tells the story of one of America's most beloved male vocal groups, from their beginnings in Detroit to their induc tion into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
SWEETHEART WINE TRAIN
FEBRUARY 14
GRAPEVINE VINTAGE RAILROAD | The sweetest train ride in North Texas is waiting to welcome you aboard! Sip on fine Texas wine, savor delectable bites, and enjoy charming touches like a single red rose for the ladies as you celebrate Valentine’s Day with your special someone on this romantic TEXRail journey. Premier Class upgrades offer a plated meal, extra wine, and VIP perks. Raise your glass to love on this one-of-a-kind Valentine’s date!
SHRINERS CHILDREN’S COLLEGE SHOWDOWN
FEBRUARY 14-16
GLOBE LIFE FIELD | This is your chance to see Arizona, Clem son, Louisville, Oklahoma State, Ole Miss and Texas take the field in a thrilling showdown, perfect for the whole family. It’s time to dig out that old baseball mitt and head to Globe Life Field to catch a pop-up foul as you cheer for some of the nation’s top college baseball programs. Portions of every ticket sold benefit Shriner’s Children’s.
STROKES OF ART IN THE SQUARE
FEBRUARY 16
SOUTHLAKE CITY HALL | The 11th annual event takes place from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at Southlake City Hall, showcasing art from emerging talents featured in Art in the Square, April 25–27. Attendees can vote for the 2025 People’s Choice Award through mid-March and hear the Southlake Women’s Club announce this year’s beneficiaries. This lively gathering celebrates local creativity and community spirit.
FEBRUARY 15
TOYOTA MUSIC FACTORY | Lace up your running shoes for a heart-pounding race at the Love On The Run Half Marathon, benefiting the Irving Schools Foundation. Embrace the Valentine's Day spirit of togetherness as you go the distance (13.1, 10K, 5K) with fellow racers and runners. Whether your passion is running, walking, or building a brighter future for students, there’s something for everyone at this family-friendly event.
MARY J. BLIGE: FOR MY FANS TOUR
FEBRUARY 21
DICKIES ARENA | Mary J. Blige is bringing “Real Love” to Dickies Arena on Feb. 21, 2025, with her “For My Fans Tour,” featuring NE-YO and Mario. Grab some friends and get into the “No More Drama” zone as you groove to her iconic hits and sway to tracks from her soulful new album, “Gratitude.” Don’t miss your chance to see the Queen of Hip-Hop Soul live in Fort Worth.
STOCKYARDS CHAMPIONSHIP RODEO
FEBRUARY 22
COWTOWN COLISEUM | The Stockyards Championship Rodeo, the world’s only year-round rodeo, lights up the historic Cowtown Coliseum every Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. You’ll experience thrilling events like bull riding, barrel racing and bronc riding in the home of the world’s first indoor rodeo. Little wranglers under 12 can saddle up for the Calf and Mutton Scramble—sign-ups at the main entrance!
APEX JAZZ FEST
MARCH 1
CARROLL SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL | Let the rhythm take over at the Apex Arts League’s 16th annual Jazz Fest. Carroll’s acclaimed jazz bands and special guests will fill the night with melodies that swing. From smooth saxophone solos to toetapping trumpet riffs, this evening of soulful sounds promises to strike the right chord with music lovers of all ages. Don’t miss this celebration of jazz that’s sure to hit all the right notes!
Few things are as relaxing and rejuvenating as a cold drink in hand, the sun shining on your face and seemingly endless miles of seas in every direction. With a recordbreaking 37 million people planning to punch their tickets to the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, 2025 is the year to embark on an all-inclusive adventure aboard a massive 1,000-foot-long vessel. So pack your bags and leave the kids at home, because these adults-only cruises are sure to leave you feeling pampered and well-rested.
As one of the few adult-exclusive cruise lines in the nation, Virgin Voyages specifically caters to the 18 and older crowd with a variety of entertainment op-
tions that are as lively as they are luxurious. With a fleet including the Scarlet Lady, the Valiant Lady and the Resilient Lady, each of Virgin Voyages’ superyacht-inspired ships can comfortably transport up to 2,700 guests to 100 destinations around the world, including Europe, the Caribbean and the Panama Ca nal. The international influence extends to its 20-plus eateries, with Michelin-starred chefs crafting cuisines such as the Korean barbecue at Gunbae or the irre sistibly Italian delights at Extra Virgin.
While Virgin’s mix of exciting cultural experi ences is one of its biggest highlights, the main draw is the plethora of onboard offerings that elevate the traditional cruise expedition. The award-winning Redemption Spa helps guests replenish and recen ter themselves through hot and cold plunge pools, a
Cultural adventures await on Viking Cruises
Onboard offerings are top notch on Virgin Voyages
mud room and a sensory salt therapy chamber. The on-board app lets you order a bottle of your favorite beverage from anywhere on the ship thanks to its on-demand “Shake For Champagne” feature, plus with several nighttime entertainment options from pop-up shows to death-defying acrobatic acts, it’s no wonder why Virgin Voyages is the top choice for passengers’ oceanic escapades time and time again. VirginVoyages.com
With 11 ships carrying over 900 guests between destinations such as Scandinavia, New Zealand and Rome, Viking Ocean Cruises emphasizes discovery and exploration. The exploration program in particular highlights the historical and cultural aspects of its travels the most with a variety of experiences specially tailored to mature passengers and their specific preferences. For instance, a visit to Bali could involve learning how to craft your own stunning sculpture from one of the province’s most talented wood carvers. Strolling through St. Lucia’s banana plantations can show you how the country processes one of its top exports, plus guests can get exclusive behind-the-scenes access to some of the world’s most notable museums, palaces and even private residences.
The enrichment programs continue on board with supplementary lectures and cooking classes that further tap guests into what life is like for people all around the globe. Every stateroom comes with its own private veranda, allowing you to soak in all of your surroundings. And with the all-new Viking Vesta expanding more routes to Athens, Istanbul and Barcelona, Viking Ocean Cruises will make you want to spend less time on the ship and more time in the port. TVikingCruises.com
With two ships solely committed to hosting exciting adult excursions, P&O Cruises is a small but mighty operation that solely operates in the U.K. Commemorating its 25th anniversary this year, the Aurora carries more than 1,800 passengers across the sandy shores of the Mediterranean, Spain and Portugal. While roughly 800 feet in size, this intimate vessel has 19 bars and restaurants, an onboard Oasis Spa and large-scale entertainment productions held at the elegant 660-seat Curzon Theatre.
Also taking off in the new year is the Arcadia, which will be taking 2,094 guests on world cruises throughout the year. The 15 in-house restaurants all come with their own unique style and flair, including Marco Pierre White’s famous Ocean Grill, while sips of champagne can be enjoyed at the ship’s cocktail lounge, the Intermezzo. Stone therapy treatments are provided at the spa’s thermal suite, and you can check out a live performance anytime at the ship’s three-tiered theater, the Palladium. After all, nothing speaks to exemplary seaside experiences like POCruises.com
Any experienced florist knows there’s more to crafting beautiful bouquets than just picking flowers. From the size of a stunning arrangement to the sweet scents they carry, these colorful petals can transform any room for any occasion. While there is no shortage of floral boutiques around the area, you might be surprised to find that one of them is in Carroll Senior High School’s fine arts building. With over 100 students learning the craft behind floral design, Dragon Blooms is busy filing orders for customers all around the area — including recently providing the centerpieces for Southlake Style’s Women’s Luncheon this past October. Thanks to floral instructor Sarah Van Sice’s tutelage and leadership, Dragon Blooms will continue to blossom through Valentine’s Day and beyond.
MY BACKGROUND IS IN… fashion design. I was a buyer, I was a manager, I did everything you could possibly imagine from the retail aspect and I ran my own custom fabrics business where I supplied for local designers. I pretty much had every fashion job there was until my family and I moved out here in 2017.
DURING LOCKDOWN IN 2020… the district sent out an email blast asking for more substitute teachers. I wanted to get more involved with the schools, so I decided to join and began teaching that fall. When the former floral design instructor mentioned that she was retiring, I learned the ins and outs of her curriculum and took over the class full-time by fall 2022.
DRAGON BLOOMS IS ACTUALLY A… retail company that’s run out of a classroom. We have our wholesale license and our retail license, and all of it is run by the students. They deal with clients and invoices, they create reports about returns and ROIs — it shows them what it’s like to run their own floral business.
I’VE ALWAYS HAD A… green thumb, and I love sharing that with the kids and showing them how to grow something on their own. There’s a lot of research that shows how gardening can affect a student’s ability to be calm, relaxed and focused. I just want to make sure that my priority is on the students at all times and that they have a place to breathe and let their brains rest for a moment.
THE BIGGEST DIFFERENCE BETWEEN FASHION AND FLORAL DESIGN IS… how fragrance comes into play. We don’t care as much about what a dress smells like, but we do care quite a
bit about what it looks like. That’s why we spend so much time with the color wheel and learning different color pairings that work well together. But with a bouquet, fragrance adds a whole new layer of sensation. It’s important to understand how much fragrance can affect an arrangement and when it is and isn’t appropriate to emphasize that.
MOST PEOPLE DON’T REALIZE… how huge the floral industry is in Texas. Everywhere you go, you’ll see flowers in hotels, restaurants, stores and businesses. I have all of my students take the Texas State Florists’ Association’s certification exams, and we currently have a 75% full certification rate. To me, that’s the biggest read on how I’m doing as a teacher.
WHEN PEOPLE WANT TO DO A SPECIAL ORDER FOR… a wedding, birthday or baby shower, they start by contacting us through our email or social media. After we’ve gotten the order, my students will process the flowers and make sure they stay healthy until the designers are ready to make the arrangement. Once it’s ready, clients will come and pick them up right out of our classroom. We’re constantly receiving and sending flowers on almost a daily basis.
I WANT MY STUDENTS TO KNOW… that they are absolutely capable of doing something like this — that everybody has creative value. I want them to walk away feeling like they have learned a skill they can use anywhere in their life. Not everybody is going to go into floral design, but everybody is going to need a bouquet at some point. I just want Dragon Blooms to grow and be as beneficial to the Southlake community as much as it possibly can be.
FIVE MINUTES with ...
SARAH VAN SICE
SNOWMAGEDDON 2025 SOUTHLAKE RESIDENTS TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE SNOWY DAYS
NEW DIGS BRIGGS FREEMAN SOTHEBY'S MOVES INTO NEW SOUTHLAKE OFFICE
Jessica Smith
214-908-4724
“Our sweet rescue pups — Levi, 8, and Maxie, 12 — have been with us for four years and nine months, respectively. You can’t buy love, but you can rescue it!”
Heather Bourland
817-938-1555
“My six children are the heart of my world and the reason I strive to be my best each day. Their laughter, love and light have made me who I am.”
Sweet sentiments from your favorite agents — on partners, pets, family and friends.
Andrea Miranda
214-683-8490
“My husband Jorge, a fellow real estate agent, is my business partner and best friend. In our 35 years of marriage, we have spent 24 of those years in Southlake — raising four amazing children, all of whom are lifelong Dragons.”
Christy McNew
817-689-5764
“Family is where life begins, and it’s the kind of love that never ends. My family is my greatest blessing.”
Kim Bedwell 817-229-9445
“I deeply cherish my family and the moments we share, whether we’re traveling to new places, cheering on the Cowboys or simply making memories together.”
CJ Sutherland 817-714-0237
“Don’t get too high. Don’t get too low. Love your family and invest in memories.”
