AS A HIGHLY ACCOMPLISHED DOCTOR OF DENTAL SURGERY WITH MORE THAN TWELVE YEARS OF EXPERIENCE, DR. SHANE MATT THRIVES ON PROVIDING HIS CLIENTS WITH COMFORTABLE, COMPREHENSIVE DENTAL CARE WITH THE LATEST TREATMENTS AND MOST EFFECTIVE TECHNOLOGY IN RECONSTRUCTIVE AND AESTHETIC DENTISTRY.
KNOWN AS THE “ROCK ’N ROLL DENTIST” TO THE LIVE MUSIC CAPITAL OF THE WORLD, DR. MATT REGULARLY SERVES LOCAL AND TRAVELING MUSICIANS FOR THEIR DENTAL CARE NEEDS AT HIS DENTAL STUDIO, AUTHENTIC SMILES, CONVENIENTLY LOCATED IN THE 2ND STREET DISTRICT OF DOWNTOWN AUSTIN. IN ADDITION TO HIS LOVE OF DENTISTRY, DR. MATT’S SECOND GREATEST PASSION IS MUSIC. HE ENJOYS ATTENDING LIVE MUSIC VENUES AND HE IS ALSO PROUD TO BE THE EXECUTIVE PRODUCER AND CREATOR OF THE HOLIDAY HAAM JAM ALBUMS. PATIENTS AT DR. MATT’S DENTAL STUDIO ENJOY A MUSICAL ENVIRONMENT IN A WARM, RELAXED SETTING, WITH STATE-OF-THE-ART TECHNOLOGY AND SERVICES, AND DR. MATT’S FAVORITE MUSIC. AUTHENTIC SMILES | 211 SAN ANTONIO ST. AUSTIN, TX 78701 | WWW.AUTHENTICSMILES.COM
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MARCH/APRIL 2014
FEATURES AUSTIN LIFESTYLE
54
Kendra Scott 20 Color of the Year: PURPLE PASSION 24 Rocky Top Travels
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MARCH/APRIL 2014
DEPARTMENTS AUSTIN LIFESTYLE
60
10 LETTER FROM THE TEAM 13 THE A* LIFE The best of everything
Austin has to offer
20 A* STYLE FASHION Holiday Fashion with an Edge 24 TRAVEL 28 A FEW OF OUR
FAVORITE THINGS
34 BEAUTY 36 EVENTS
14
37 SOCIAL GRACES 42 SOCIAL REGISTER 50 Q&ATX
Emile Hirsch
54 COVER STORY
28
Kendra Scott
60 AUSTIN START-UP CULTURE 20
65 ENCORE
The Wild Feathers
68 ACCIDENTAL EPICUREAN
Gourdough's Public House
71 COSMIC CADENCE
Horoscopes for March/April
72 KEEP AUSTIN WELL
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LE T T ER F ROM T H E T E A M
T H E
PUBLISHER
B E S T
O F
E V E R Y T H I N G
Shawn K. Lively Hollie Kenney
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER
THAT, REGARDLESS OF WHAT TIME OF YEAR IT IS, IT IS ALWAYS FESTIVAL SEASON.
On the horizon are the new I Heart Radio Music Festival, the Urban Music Festival, the Old Settler’s Music Festival and Reggae Festival, all of which lead to our beloved Austin City Limits Music Festival. But, before all of that comes into view, Austin opens its doors wide to the world for the largest festival of music, film and technology that exists. As South By Southwest begins, it puts the city in the cultural eye, as we play host to thousands upon thousands of cultural influencers and trendsetters throughout the world. Not to be outdone, this issue we present one of Austin’s own most cherished trendsetters, Kendra Scott, who has become a pioneer of style and an ambassador to the world – from runways to magazine covers – for Austin’s unique culture. Many a jewelry collection (including my own, along with our art director Kristen’s – see page 28 for Our Favorite Things) is studded with cherished pieces that bear her name. The versatility of the jewelry line and brand can be seen at South By Southwest and on the red carpet, but pale in comparison to the jewel the woman actually is. We also dive into start-ups and why they choose Austin as base camp (another common theme here: you guessed it – South By Southwest). We all know Austin is an up-and-coming city and we’re on the top lists for a variety of things. And we can’t forget about the music. We make it out to a city whose music obsession nearly parallels Austin’s own, and explored the honky-tonks and concert halls of Nashville to hear everything from Black Violin at Music City Roots to Tracy Lawrence at The Ryman during the Grand Ole Opry. If you’re into music (and what Austinite isn’t?), we explain precisely why a trip to Music City comes so highly recommend a weekend trip. And, for this and any travel, be sure to see packing tips from our very own Rory on page 35. So whether your vacation takes you to far off locales or keeps you in the city limits for a ‘staycation,’ be sure you always carry Austin with you. We at Austin Lifestyle Magazine are happy to help you do so.
ART & PRODUCTION Kristen Bramblett WEB DESIGN Stone Slade-Wet Media Designs CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Eric Cudak, Arthur Garcia, Lindsay Lipscomb, Jen Daugherty, Judy Horton, Aimee Wenske, Tania Quintanilla, Laura Wilson, Dionne Hiebert, Brian Fitzsimmons, De An Hoeft, Jack Plunkett, Hannah Moore, Jared Tennant, Daniel Ramirez, Kristen Barlowe and Casey Dunn ART DIRECTOR
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IT WOULD BE FAIR TO SAY THAT FESTIVAL SEASON IS UPON US, BUT AUSTINITES KNOW
10.875” Trim
RORY PATRICK MCNEILL, SHAWN LIVELY, NANCY MARR AND HAYDEN WALKER.
SALES & MARKETING Social Communications Social media/marketing Mike Kordell Business Development Billie Biggs, and Hollie Kenney MARKETING/PR
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MIKE KORDELL, KAYLA ELLIOTT, MARIKA FLATT, HOLLIE KENNEY, MARTHA MORALES, AMBER GROCE, EDITH HENRY,
EDITORIAL TEAM EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Amber Groce EDITOR Daniel Ramirez ASSOCIATE EDITOR Emily R. Pellerin FASHION EDITOR Edith Henry TRAVEL EDITOR Marika Flatt BEAUT Y EDITOR Rory Patrick McNeill CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jennifer Putterman, Steve Habel, Kayla Elliott, Christian Ryan Criswell, Mike Kordell, Steve Dean, Amber Groce, Daniel Ramirez and Kelly Benson KEEP AUSTIN WELL Amber Groce, Christian Ryan Criswell and Lisa Talev INTERNS Camille Garcia, Jennifer Putterman and Christian Ryan Criswell
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AUSTIN LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE IS AUSTIN OWNED AND OPERATED. PUBLISHED BY TEXAS LIFESTYLE MEDIA, INC. © AND ™ 2013 TEXAS LIFESTYLE MEDIA, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
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A
THE
*LIFE
Noteworthy happenings, reviews and openings that highlight the best of everything Austin has to offer
ZACH Theatre Provides Intimacy in Austin
PHOTO CREDIT ZACH THEATRE
PHOTO BY KIRK TUCK
BY KAYLA ELLIOTT ZACH Theatre is currently celebrating their 81st season and as such continues to bring Austin provocative, moving and innovative theatre this year. In their mission, the ZACH “creates intimate theatre that ignites the imagination, lifts the spirit, and engages our community”. It is this goal of finding intimacy that drives the 2014 season. First for the season is In the Next Room, or The Vibrator Play. Written by Sarah Ruhl and directed by Sarah Rasmussen, the Broadway hit takes place in an upper class Victorian home where a male doctor has invented a device to treat “hysteria”. Once his wife begins to see her husband’s patients in better health, the play begins to looks at what it means to truly make a connection. In a comedy that ponders love and intimacy, the audience is given a provocative look at sex and relationships. The play runs January 29th through February 23rd. Dave Steakley, Producing Artistic Director, describes the play as one that “looks back as a means to look forward.” He says intimacy gives experiences which are special and different than what technology can offer someone. The play is about finding a magnetic connection between people by addressing the intimacy of relationships presented in a theatre that promotes intimacy to its audience. ZACH presents Top Concert: Rent’s Anthony and Adam Live for two performances in February. It puts two singers who gained fame on
Broadway on stage, stripped down to play only their acoustic instruments on stage. Steakley wants the audience to have this same close connection with the singers so they can make a connection through song. The Topfer theatre was built to be a personal venue in which the audience makes a close connection between themselves and the stage. The Gospel at Colonus debuts in April. Sophocles’ Greek myth “Oedipus” is given a fresh twist when placed in a contemporary African American gospel church service. A full gospel chorus takes the stage alongside Austin’s most acclaimed gospel singers. Because the ZACH promotes fun and participation, a play that builds upon community with a gospel choir is a perfect springtime show. Steakley says Colonus is about ancient myths in a contemporary church where you can’t help but feel the intimacy of the theater, but the grandness of what is on stage. Steakley’s passion for ZACH Theatre (he has been there twenty years!) oozes out of everything he says about the theatre itself and its upcoming shows. He sees Austinites who love live music expect music and experiences in their community and he tries to bring that into the theater. He wants the theatre experience at the ZACH to be participatory and the audience to be verbal and feel connected. It’s not hard to want to feel that connection when the theatre welcomes it all so freely. Find showtimes and location online at zachtheatre.org. ALM
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THE A * LIFE
Mulberry: A Five-year-old Treasure in Downtown Austin Cozy, classy and in the heart of Downtown Austin is Mulberry: a wine bar that serves locally sourced food. Designed to seat an intimate group of 32, Mulberry is a unique place in which to dine. The restaurant features European-style architecture and a menu that is always changing. Executive Chef at Mulberry Kristine Kittrell says she loves having the freedom to try new dishes at any point. “It’s a cook’s dream, in my opinion,” Kittrell said. “It’s not locked to only changing four times a year so there’s more of a whim to how we change the menu.” The restaurant strives to serve dishes that are both creative and delicious. Their method of ensuring both? Using locally sourced ingredients that are in season. Currently, the menu features cauliflower and spinach as sides, to name a few. “We’re always working on new dishes inspired by ingredients around us.” Additionally, the chefs try to take conventional food items and put a spin on them. Think of it as adding a kick to your meal. If you need proof, try featured dishes like their currently popular peppered
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venison loin served with blue cheese cake and a blackberry demi glace sauce. The changing menu is not the only thing that sets Mulberry apart from your traditional restaurant, though. When it opened five years ago, there were no other 32-seat restaurants in Austin. Additionally, the restaurant prides itself on it’s eco-friendly attitude. “Its a ‘green restaurant’ since we filter our water, use ‘green’ light bulbs, and we recycle everything,” Kittrell said. “I think a lot more restaurants are falling under that category now.” The restaurant hosts several events throughout the year and takes part in a lot of community outreach programs and fundraisers. Having just celebrated its five year anniversary, Mulberry had an event at the restaurant last fall. The next event coming up is a Valentine’s Day dinner, complete with a special five-course menu and a vegetarian option. Since Mulberry opened five years ago, the 2nd Street District has become much more dense with businesses and restaurants. However, if you’re looking for a cozy, chic restaurant with one-ofa-kind meals in the area then you should pay Mulberry a visit. ALM
PHOTO COURTESY OF MULBERRY
BY CAMILLE GARCIA
THE A * LIFE
Business Brewed with Love This Valentine’s Day all you need is love. That and the perfect cup of joe, or in this scenario, Stinson’s. Back in early 2012, John and Sheridan Thompson opened Stinson’s Coffee truck with the hope of conveniently serving local customers their morning coffee. This year, the business will expand into a full bistro in late January. Not only are love and marriage active ingredients in this enterprise, but the couple has combined John’s background in development and Sheridan’s background in client relations to successfully run this familyoriented shop. While John focuses on the blueprint of the bistro, Sheridan specializes in providing neighborly customer service. Though Austin is packed with competing coffeehouses, don’t confuse Stinson's with other run-of-the-mill shops; it strives to be a unique, neighborhood coffee shop for families and locals. Additionally, it provides lunch items like sandwiches and salads along with a full bar. Much like the menu, Stinson’s location is also distinct; the Thompsons have renovated and transformed a 1948 fill station into a modern coffee shop. Stinson’s has a robust, devoted consumer following that is just as excited as the owners for the bistro to open its doors. Because of faithful, neighborhood customers and the trailer’s success in its current location, the transition to introduce a shop into the community has been a piece of cake. The Thompson duo is working closely with local chefs and kitchens to make sure their shop has a distinctly local feel to the menu. For instance, they've discovered a rising fascination with Central Texas olive oil in the community and they hope to showcase it in several new menu items.
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Being a small, local business is Stinson’s can be flexible and open to suggestions. Much like menu items on the trailer, the new storefront will offer a special blend for nearly every occasion and season. Unlike other coffee shops, Stinson’s is used to continual tampering. “We think for a lot of people, walking up to a trailer just isn’t their cup of tea,” says Thompson. “We’ve gotten a lot of feedback that people are highly anticipating our opening.” As John and Sheridan joke about their java, "only our coffee beans are haughty." The down-to-earth couple hopes to create a high-quality, neighborhood coffee house like the one they met in 10 years ago. Ignore the naysayers; Stinson’s Coffee is proof you can mix business with pleasure. You can wake up with mug of Stinson’s Coffee by visiting the shop at 4416 Burnet Road or by following the company on Facebook for updates and the daily grind! ALM
PHOTOS BY EMILY WATKINS
BY JENNIFER PUTTERMAN
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THE A * LIFE NEW BIZ BUZZ
PHOTO COURTESY OF BUFALINA
Austin Meets Havana
PHOTO COURTESY OF TEKEEN
BY JENNIFER PUTTERMAN
Unwind with Local Liquor BY CHRISTIAN RYAN CRISWELL TEKEEN, which means the “Aztec treasure never found,” is a unique, new agave wine that was created by local Austin siblings and libation experts who noticed the absence of a readymade cocktail that could be enjoyed by both men and women. Accepting the challenge, Tanya, Sergio and Christian set out to invent an exciting brand of alcohol that blends natural flavors with orange wine and agave to offer a smooth final product that flows like wine with a taste of tequila. The result is a premium adult beverage that can be sipped over ice or served in a specialty mixed drink. TEKEEN, which is currently available in flavors such as Cucumber, Passion Fruit and Grapefruit is available in local liquor stores such as all Austin area Spec’s, Wiggy’s Wines and Spirits, Avery Ranch and Ace Liquor. Keep an eye out for TEKEEN during SXSW as they cruise around town in a specially designed Audi. Participants can take a picture with the Audi for a chance to win free products and swag during the upcoming festival. You can follow TEKEEN on Facebook (facebook. com/tekeenbeverages) and Twitter (twitter.com/ drinkTEKEEN) to stay posted on tastings around the Austin area. ALM
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Everyone in this city can vouch that Austin does Mexican cuisine right; however, Chef Paul Hargrove believes its time to welcome new Latin American flavors to the table. Finding a home in the Warehouse District is an authentic Cuban cuisine and cocktail centered eatery envisioned by Chef Paul Hargrove and the Gaslight Square management team. The Pleasant Storage Room is modeled after the famous lounge in Old Havana of the exact name, the supposed origin of the infamous mojito cocktail. Ser ving high-proof rum cocktails and punches will act as the main focus of the restaurant. Cocktail expert Kelly O’Hare takes great pleasure in paving the way for high proof rum cocktails in Austin, utilizing traditional flavors from classic recipes to transport barattendees to the streets of Old Havana. Sounds like the perfect tropical getaway can be found in one sip. Prepare your taste buds for the tastiest vacation. “Guests will transcend to Old Havana while sipping a Hotel Nacional and sampling from PSR’s many bocadillos, ceviches, or sugarcaneskewered grill selections,” says Hargrove. Chef Hargrove has thoughtfully concocted a cuisine that pairs perfectly with the cocktails served. Menu items feature various options ranging from The Comida De Calle (street food) to family style dining. The former section provides a wide variety of selections like street corn, conch fritters, jerk chicken and tamales. Keeping true to Cuban culture, Chef Hargrove serves Especial de la Cocina family style to encourage sharing, conversation and interaction while enjoying a meal packed with flavor. Family dinners will include the “Traditional Cuban,” consisting of lechon asado, ham, swiss, pickles and mustard pressed in a potato bun or “La Vaca Frita” with twicecooked and shredded beef served on mini potato buns with queso fresco and avocado. Desserts items will include Cuban favorites like churros or roasted sweet plantains. Find out more about Pleasant Storage Room by following its Facebook and Twitter accounts. You can soon uncover your secret passion for rum when the restaurant opens its doors this spring at 208 W. Fourth Street. ALM
Bufalina Brings New Pizza to East Austin BY KAYLA ELLIOTT Bufalina has been a part of east Austin for just over six months now. And in that six months, Steven Dilley’s endeavor has continued to bring in people for his unique creations made with fresh, local ingredients and a great wine and beer list. Right in the middle of the small restaurant on East Cesar Chavez is a huge pizza oven that cooks at extreme temperatures. In this, Bufalina makes Neopolitan-style pizza that comes out with soft and pliable dough. The dough is taken and made into pizza with ingredients grown and raised on local farms. The menu at Bufalina changes based on the season and based on what the local growers have in stock. Recently, Brussels sprouts were a big grower so Dilley decided to play around with it as a topping and ended up liking the results so much he put it on the menu. By focusing on using suppliers that are food friendly and from a smaller domain, Bufalina can design a unique menu. With six taps, Bufalina offers local beers to patrons who want to pair their pizza with beer. The wine list is something Dilley is quite proud of since he put it together himself. He is creative in his approach by finding esoteric wines that you might not see at most places. By choosing wines that have not had much manipulation or oak keeps them true to where the come from. Keeping true to origins is obviously a theme Dilley strives to keep throughout his restaurant. Dilley never worked in a restaurant prior to Bufalina. He moved back to Austin after a career in finance in New York a few years ago and decided he wanted to open his own restaurant. So far, he feels the response has been great. Patrons come from all part of Austin to try Bufalina: East Austinites, particularly people who live on Cesar Chavez, as well as people who aren’t from the area but want to seek out the perfect pizza. If you’re in the area or want to get a taste of Neopolitan pizza in Austin, try out Bufalina and experience it for yourself. Hours and location can be found online at bufalinapizza.com. ALM
tapas • cocktails • espresso • cigars • dessert • wine
800 West 6th St. | Austin, TX 78701 |512.436.9633 | TAPASITAS.COM austinlifestylemagazine.com
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Purple Passion OUTFIT Lala BRACELET Jeannie Vianney
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A* S T Y LE | FA S H I O N
BRIGHTEN UP THIS SPRING, IN VARIOUS TONES AND HUES FROM THIS YEARS "IT" COLOR RADIANT ORCHID! It need not be a solid piece in purple—but be sure to incorporate this fabulous color into your wardrobe in a way that works for you—and you'll be right on trend. PHOTOGRAPHY AND EDITING: PETER TUNG PETERTUNG.ZENFOLIO.COM
MODEL: BLUE MADRIGAL HAIR AND MAKEUP: MIRABAI WAGNER OF MIRABAI DESIGN WARDROBE: LAISA MACIAS OF LALA HANDBAGS: FRANKIE FERRIS OF FRANKIE HANDBAGS JEWELRY: JEANNIE VIANNEY LIGHTING: PETER TUNG AND JONATHAN REYES
OUTFIT Lala NECKLACE Jeannie Vianney BRACELET AND HANDBAG Frankie Handbags
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A* S T Y LE | FA S H I O N
OUTFIT Lala NECKLACE Jeannie Vianney HANDBAG Frankie Handbags
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OUTFIT Lala NECKLACE AND BRACELET Frankie Handbags
OUTFIT Lala EARRINGS Jeannie Vianney HANDBAG Frankie Handbags
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T R AV EL
ROCKY TOP TRAVELS BY AMBER GROCE ALTHOUGH AUSTIN IS KNOWN AS THE LIVE MUSIC CAPITOL OF THE WORLD, NASHVILLE CAN HOLD ITS OWN WITH ITS MUSIC SCENE. IT BOASTS OVER 120 LIVE MUSIC VENUES (AND COUNTING). WITH A RICH CULTURE AND DEEP ROOTS, THIS CITY HAS PLENTY TO OFFER AUSTINITES LOOKING FOR A WEEKEND GETAWAY. STAY
Hyatt Place recently opened as the second five-star hotel in downtown Nashville. This luxury property boasts 255 modern suites featuring a separate sitting and sleeping area, mini fridge, a 42-inch flat panel TV and free WiFi., not to mention views of downtown Nashville. Freshly prepared signature flatbreads, apps, greens and more are available 24/7, an amenity usually designated for full service properties.Grab a glass of wine or a signature cocktail (we recommend a Southern Belle) and listen to live music without even stepping out of the hotel. Location is also key for this property--it is within walking distance to many attractions including the Johnny Cash Museum and Honky Tonk Row (more on these below). EAT
Before you hit the museums, stop in The Southern for brunch. Choose from contemporary dishes like My Way (brown butter linguini topped with pine nuts, goat cheese, bacon lardons and two fried eggs) or go for the classic steak and eggs--T for Tennessee (grilled Leipers Fork strip steak, three eggs anyway, griddled potatoes and toast or biscuits). Pair it with a Walker's Ultimate Bloody Mary and you’ve got the perfect brunch. If you’re looking for lunch, check out Riff’s food truck. Chefs B.J. Lofback and Carlos Davis also have a brick and mortar location, Riffs Cafe at Highland Ridge, if you want to venture out of downtown. The motto of the business is “Eat. Good. Food.,” so it’s right in line with the Austinite foodie’s view.There’s really no menu: as B.J. puts it, “the name Riffs kind of exemplifies who we are, we're just jamming. Korean BBQ tacos, jerk chicken and shrimp & grits have been our hits.” PLAY
Downtown Nashville is home to several museums including the Johnny Cash Museum and the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. The Cash family is heavily involved with the Johnny Cash Museum, so the pieces and personal knowledge are fantastic. Be sure to venture to the hidden room in the back to watch legendary footage of the man in black. The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is operated by the non-profit Country Music Foundation. Check out Reba: All The Women I Am exhibit featuring many of the dresses worn throughout her career and walk around the Hall of Fame to pay tribute to some of the most influential artists in the genre.
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T R AV EL
T R AV EL
Need a break from the museums? Take a walk in Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park and learn about Tennessee state history with a great view of the Tennessee State Capitol. Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park’s carillons were dedicated in 1998 during the second phase of park development. There are 50 bell towers housing 95 bells which represent the 95 counties in Tennessee. The bells play a full course of songs on the top of the hour, representing songs known for Tennessee. You may hear "Ole Man River" for West Tennessee, "Crazy" for Middle Tennessee and "Rocky Top" for East Tennessee. The bells are also part of the Court of Three Stars which represent the musical heritage of Tennessee. You can’t go to Nashville without catching some live music. After dinner, take a stroll down Honky Tonk Row and bar hop famous spots like Tootsie’s, The Stage and Robert’s Western Wear. You never know whom you might see! FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Tennessee Department of Tourist Development tnvacation.com Hyatt Place Nashville Downtown hyattplace.com The Southern thesouthernnashville.com Riffs Food Truck riffscatering.com
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The Johnny Cash Museum johnnycashmuseum.com The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum countrymusichalloffame.org Bicentennial Mall State Park tnstateparks.com/parks/about/ bicentennial-mall Honky Tonk Row honkytonkrow.com
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A
FEW OF OUR FAVORITE THINGS Hand-picked by our very own Art Director, Kristen Bramblett >>>>>>>>
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PHOTO CREDIT RUBY BURNE
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5 Laser Etched Frames with Vintage Bird Illustrations by Killer Queen Jewelry, $20, etsy.com/shop/KillerQueenJewelry. 6 AHA Arts Flower Stamps, $14.95, aha-arts.com. 7 Design-Your-Own Hardcover Book, $69-$139, artifactuprising.com. 8 "Shit just got real" limited edition blanket/scarf, $40, covetedthings.com.
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Char-Grilled Louisiana Oysters with Bacon-Anchovy Butter
When it comes to our seafood —
IT’S THE WATER, THAT MAKES
YOUR MOUTH WATER
That’s right, the reason that Louisiana Seafood is the best in the world is the water. Our shrimp, crab, oysters, and fish are thriving in fisheries where nutrient-rich freshwater mixes with the crystal clear Gulf water to produce a one-of-a-kind environment. One taste and you know it’s Louisiana seafood — fresher, sweeter and more delicious. Pick Louisiana Seafood to make every dish perfect. This recipe, stories and more at LouisianaSeafood.com
Demand It.
A* S T Y LE | B E AU T Y
Set for the Jet BY RORY PATRICK MCNEILL
A* S T Y LE | B E AU T Y
Weekend warrior. That’s me and most that I know. Busy weekdays matched with rendezvous with destiny on the weekends…a flight away. Flying today is nowhere close to the glamorous years of Pan Am. No need to go to Vegas to gamble if you’re planning on checking luggage…you may never see your goodies again. Enter the carry on bag. There is a reason my friends jokingly call me Mary Poppins when I travel. I have been known to stretch that three day array of belongings into a week of stylish ready to wear. So my spoonful of sugar for you is to share the tricks of how I am able to do just that.
opt for a spinning beauty on all fours. Prevent damage both the inside and out with a hard body and you’ll find yourself moving through the airport with purpose and pride.
KEEP IT CLEAN In little weekend bags, freshness is key. Don’t forget a simple laundry bag for your dirties. Throw your fave dryer sheet in to keep things feeling fresh for the entire trip. The static sheet can do double duty by stopping static cling on clothes or taming flyaway hair. Simply rub sheet over problem area and there you have it.
ARE YOU AN OVERPACK RAT? The reality is when traveling, people become fearful of going into the unknown and use clothes as a security blanket. To avoid this psychological condition, pack the night before you leave. If weather is your worry, keep your smartphone close for up to the minute forecasts and make any necessary changes.
BULK UP
STICK WITH A FORMULA
TAKE WHAT YOU KNOW
Keeping with a general rule will ensure success and prevent the anxiety of forgetting something. I always stick with the following: Pack one bottom for every three tops. Generally, pants and skirts take up more room than shirts, and when you wear them multiple times, no one is the wiser. This ability to mix and match is the calling card of the expert traveler.
As a general rule, shopping for something new before a trip is something you probably shouldn’t do. Stay comfortable with your favorite things. When you have familiarity you know exactly the look that brings you the most swagger.
Traveling to cooler climates can be a dream or a drag. Wear your large and oversized jackets, scarves, and boots instead of packing them in the bag. Free up precious space in your carry on allowing for additional outfits you might want to bring along.
EMBRACE THE ACCENTS DOUBLE YOUR PLEASURE Perhaps the most important task of all. Buy two of all your bathing and shampooing needs. Create a toiletry bag with all of your staples in fun and magical travel sizes. This tip is satisfaction guaranteed as your morning routine awaits you within the reach of your hand!
IT’S IN THE BAG Dragging luggage behind you all day is enough to make you arrive looking like you spent the night in coach. Toss out those two wheeled dinosaurs and
Choose complimenting neutrals for versatility in dressing and satisfy your craving for variety with little accessories like fun belts, bold jewelry and printed scarves. With fabulous accents, nobody will notice a repeated skirt or trouser.
FORGET FOLDING, THE “IN” CROWD IS ALL ABOUT ROLLING Rolling is a classic expert packing method. Stack a particular item one on top of the other. Fold items in half lengthwise and tightly roll down. You can stuff 7 days of clothes into a weekender! Please turn off your mobile devices, we are ready for takeoff.
For more beauty tips from Rory McNeill, visit roaraustin.com/rory.
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T H E A* L IF E | E V EN T S
APRIL 21
The National ACL Live at the Moody Theater acl-live.com PHOTO COURTESY OF DIERDRE O’CALLAGHAN
APRIL 2
APRIL 9
APRIL 17
APRIL 24 & 25
Cocktails with Kendra Icenhauer’s do512.com
4 x 4 for the Nobelity Project Gibson Guitar Showroom nobelity.org
Eisley Emo’s emosaustin.com
Vampire Weekend Stubb’s stubbsaustin.com
APRIL 2
APRIL 10-13
APRIL 19
APRIL 24-MAY 3
Five x Seven Brazos Hall thecontemporaryaustin.org
Old Settler’s Music Festival Salt Lick Pavilion oldsettlersmusicfest.org
Jo’s 15th Annual Pet Parade Jo’s South Congress austinpetsalive.org
Austin Fashion Week Various fashionweekaustin.com
APRIL 4
APRIL 12
APRIL 21
APRIL 25 - 27
16th Annual Austin Under 40 Awards Austin Music Hall austinunder40.org
SHAPE Diva Dash Long Park divadash.com
The National ACL Live at the Moody Theater acl-live.com
Austin Food and Wine Festival Butler Park austinfoodandwinefestival.com
APRIL 17
APRIL 23-26
Third Thursdays at the Blanton Blanton Museum of Art blantonmuseum.org
Moontower Comedy Festival Paramount and Various austintheatre.org
APRIL 7
Chromeo Stubb’s stubbsaustin.com
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SOCIAL GR ACES MARATHON KIDS P H O T O S BY C H R I S K O M I N C Z A K
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SOCIAL GR ACES DELL CHILDREN'S MEDICAL CENTER P H O T O S BY R O N I G E N D L E R A N D J E N N I F E R C O TA O F L A R K P H O T O G R A P H Y
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SOCIAL REGISTER THE SIMS FOUNDATION
Heart of the City: A Celebration of Soul The SIMS Foundation is proud to present the fifth annual benefit bash at the historic Scottish Rite Theater on Saturday, February 15. Inf luenced by James Brown and Stax Records’ concerts of the late ‘60s, Heart of the City: A Celebration of Soul will present a “soul revue” style show, starring some of the most soul-stirring voices in Texas. The evening will showcase an all-star house band, featuring Grupo Fantasma horns, led by musical director and Grammy award-winner Adrian Quesada. All proceeds will support SIMS Foundation’s mission to provide mental health and addiction recovery services for Austin-area musicians and their families. The evening will begin at 8:00 p.m. with a cocktail hour and ‘70s juke joint vinyl set by DJ Mahealani. A mélange of “old schoolmeets-new,” the soul revue will feature legendary soul singer Bobby Patterson, Queen Bee Tameca Jones, Dan Dyer, along with special guests Nakia from the hit show The Voice, Daniel James Leopold (Leopold and His Fiction), the Grupo Fantasma horns, The Ramnites Step Team of Huston-Tillotson University, and emcee Rick “Daddy” McNulty of KUTX and KOOP radio. In addition to all-star musical performances, the evening will feature a luxury raffle, signature cocktails by Fun House, stepand-repeat with art installations by Resolve Creative Project House, limited edition poster, and a midnight snack provided by Dishalicious. Co-chairs of the event this year are Noel and Will Bridges, both native Austinites who grew up participating in the city’s arts and music industry. Will is the co-owner of Arlyn Studios and Lamberts Downtown Barbecue. Noel recently left her position as promotions manager at the Austin Chronicle to work as a freelance event and marketing consultant. Will is a musician himself and grew up playing in bands, DJing, and organizing events. His passion eventually led him to the production side of music where he actively works in both live and studio settings to help musicians realize their artistic visions. Most recently, Will hosted soul legend and Heart of the City headliner Bobby Patterson during the making of his new album at Arlyn Studios in South Austin. "The SIMS Foundation helps Austin musicians when they need it most. SIMS focuses on issues that aren't always easy to talk
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about, but that touch everyone. As an artist, it means a lot to know that someone has your back," said Will. Noel attributes her passion for the arts and community to her mother, longtime local music advocate Rose Reyes, who introduced her to city council meetings and event production at a very early age. "As Austin grows, we are committed to the passionate advocacy of our local music community,” said Noel. “By providing the necessary infrastructure and support systems, like the SIMS Foundation, we can all help insure that the music heritage that made Austin what it is today will never be lost." The SIMS Foundation provides access and financial support for mental health and addiction recovery services to Austin musicians and their families. With deep roots in the Austin music community for over 19 years, the SIMS Foundation is a safety net of services for musicians trying to get back in tune with life. Each year SIMS connects over 600 musicians with counseling, psychiatric, and addiction treatment services. More information can be found at simsfoundation.org. Heart of the City: A Celebration of Soul takes place on Saturday, February 15 from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. at the Scottish Rite Theater, located at 207 W. 18th Street, Austin, Texas. VIP tickets are $120 and include Underground Soul Lounge access, VIP seating and signature cocktails. General admission tickets are $50 and include bar and midnight snack. To purchase tickets in adva nce please v isit, simsfoundation.org. For sponsorship opportunities, please contact Roggie Baer at roggie@ simsfoundation.org.
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SOCIAL REGISTER MARATHON KIDS
Elizabeth Ann Seton Board Gala to Raise Funds for Affordable Community Care CAMP MABRY APRIL 12
The Elizabeth Ann Seton Board (EASB) will host its annual benefit, "EASB Live! at Camp Mabry," on Saturday, April 12, at 6:00 p.m. on the Camp Mabry grounds. After an elegant buffet dinner provided by 34th Street Cafe and an unforgettable live auction, the attendees will enjoy a live concert from Robert Earl Keen, an icon in the Texas music industry who has been performing across the country for decades. Late night dancing will continue with DJ Hear No Evil (Austin's own Brent Metschan). Event chairs Stephanie Jastrow and Lindsey Majors anticipate another successful event benefitting the Seton Community Health Centers and the Sister Gertrude Levy Endowment for the Poor. “This event has become the party of the season,” Jastrow said, “and we are so excited to be a part of this year’s special night. Every year, we sell out to a crowd of nearly 1,000, and this year we expect will be no different. From the spectacular venue under the Austin sky, to the delicious gourmet buffet provided by 34th Street Café, to rocking out to Robert Earl Keen, Jr. it’s a night not to be missed!” The event features a lively cocktail party, elegant dinner buffet, incredible auction packages, and an after-party with DJ Hear No Evil. Sponsorships begin at $3,500 and ticket prices start at $350. Last year, the event was sold out even before invitations went out. The event is outdoors, under a white tent, decorated in casual chic so guests can enjoy the usually perfect April weather. The Elizabeth Ann Seton Board is dedicated to raising funds and awareness for the Seton Community Health Centers, which serve as the healthcare “home” to thousands of families and children in our community who need it most, by providing access to high-quality, affordable healthcare. The Sister Gertrude Levy Endowment for the Poor supports patients in need — including those at the Seton Community Health Centers. “These health centers reduce unnecessary hospital and emergency room visits, provide diagnosis and treatment for illnesses, and improve patient health through education and preventive services,” Majors said. “This year, we are spotlighting those who are treated at the health centers, whose care is helped made possible by our generous donors and supporters.” EASB Live! directly impacts the lives and health of hard-working Austinites, such as our beloved musicians, and under-insured Central Texans and their families, who rely on the Community Health Centers for affordable health care.
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The party attire is western chic, although many women wear casual or dressy sundresses. The Elizabeth Ann Seton Board is comprised of 75 women, who are elected by their peers to serve on the board. The age range is broad, but is primarily between 30 and 45 years of age. The 2013-2014 board members are: Ashley Amini, Elisabeth Anderson, Lissa Anderson, Clary Auler, Samantha Bernstein, Jenny Boone, Taylor Bowles, Amy Brady, Misty Bray, Nicole Brennig, Elise Bridges, Morgan Burnham, Jenny Butterworth, Kylie Calvert, Melissa Castelluccio, Courtney Childers, Lesley Childress, Michelle Cline, Kim Cone, Laura Craddick, Amy Deane, Annie Downing Susan Dunaway, Beth Durrett, Suzanne Erickson, Abby Ford, Emily Galatzan, Sarah Garrison, Xio Goss, Catherine Granger, Jordan Hale, Anna Hargrove, Katherine Harner, Taylor Harper, Anne Henderson, Anna Lee Herd, Allyson Hertel, Carrie Hicks, Sharon Schoch Hubbard, Kristen Jaros, Cary Johl, Molly Jones, Christy Levy, Lily Lloyd, Lisa Magids, Stefanie Moore, Christine Morenz, Carrie Murchison, Hannah Nokes, Collin Ohanian, Amanda Oudt, Valerie Parker, Jahnna Peeler, Elizabeth Pitts, Lesley Pitts, Emily Price, Jennifer Ransom Rice, Margaret Rigby, Alison Ryan, Emily Seiders, Ruthie Seiders, Meghan Slover, Caroline Smith, Hillarey Squires, Margo Tate, Ann Townsend, Stephanie Trotter, Katherine Wallin, Chandler Ware, Terri Broussard Williams, and Tory Wortham. The Elizabeth Ann Seton Board was founded in 1987 in support of Holy Cross Hospital, a Daughters of Charity medical facility in East Austin specializing in care for the elderly. With the closing of Holy Cross Hospital in 1988, the Board now supports the Seton Community Health Centers. Seton McCarthy opened in 1989; Seton Kozmetsky in 1996, and Seton Topfer opened in 2000 in North Austin. The clinics provide primary health care, social services, prevention and education to lowincome families. The majority of patients are women and children. The Elizabeth Ann Seton Board is a fundraising, public relations, and education arm of the Daughters of Charity, promoting services offered to the Austin and Central Texas communities. For more information, or to sponsor, visit setonfund.org/easb/2013gala/information, or contact Judah Crossland, at 512-324-1021.
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Q &AT X
Filling out a Role Emile Hirsch Does More Than Just Play A Part BY SHAWN LIVELY & DANIEL RAMIREZ
rom the first time the movie-going world took notice of Emile Hirsch in films like The Dangerous Lives of Altar Boys and The Emperor’s Club, the unpredictable actor has managed to surprise, not only with his performances, but with his many different role choices. From festival surprise, Prince Avalanche, to his latest turn in the wartime thriller, Lone Survivor, Hirsch has shown an incredible range, and Austin Lifestyle Magazine caught up with him while he revisited the place where he filmed Prince Avalanche and was promoting the workout challenge named after real-life war hero, Danny Dietz, whom Hirsch plays in Lone Survivor.
You’ve done both big-budget blockbusters and smaller-run festival pictures. Do you have a preference between high profile and traditional “indie” films? I don’t think there is necessarily a preference. I think that it’s - for me - about enjoying the experience of acting in whatever the role is. I think that has more to do with it than necessarily the ‘size.’ Because, you can make a big movie, but if, in the character you portray, you don’t have a satisfying experience doing it, it’s not going to be that rewarding.
What drew you to “Lone Survivor”? I think, in the case of Lone Survivor and getting to portray Danny Dietz, it was just an honor to be able to represent someone who had strong ideals and the proper commitment. All the S.E.A.L.s, just the process of becoming a S.E.A.L., the more I learned about it, the more respect I have for the process - what it really takes to do that. For what I did, it is nowhere near what the S.E.A.L.s did.
Since the physical shape people see on screen is what they’ll consider, what was the difference between your regimen and theirs? I got in shape as an actor, portraying a S.E.A.L.. What actual S.E.A.L.s go through is incredible, where they train on Coronado [Island]. It’s rare as an actor to get to portray someone that really lived and that you admired the goals and ideals that they had. For this one, they put me in this thing called pro camp, which is a physical training program at Gold’s Gym in Venice Beach. It’s basically six days a week. In the morning, we would go and train
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for several hours. It was hard. It was something I wasn’t used to, but it was good.
Having endured the rigors of a harsh training regimen, what was or is your go-to binge food? Cheeseburgers.
Of those you’ve worked with, whom do you admire the most and what did their craft teach you about yours? I think working with Sean Penn was really important for me, in terms of learning about the commitment to the craft and to the ideal. He’s very specific and very intense about what he does. I worked with him when I was 21 on Into the Wild and he definitely helped me a lot, I hope.
You’ve given a lot of time to charitable causes. What are the global concerns that trouble you the most? The character of Chris McCandless in Into the Wild gave his life’s savings to OXFAM (Oxford Committee for Famine Relief), so when the movie came out, OXFAM asked me if I wanted to go to Congo. I said, “yes.” In the Congo, the issues we were looking at were conflict minerals, which are sort of like blood diamonds. The minerals - gold, tantalum and tin - and all the resources in these countries like Congo and Zimbabwe are basically controlled by gangsters. There are tribal wars over this and it is only one of the things I learned about while I was in Congo.
Since you are officially well-traveled - Alaska for Into the Wild and Congo for humanitarian efforts - how do you feel about our town? I love Austin, it’s a beautiful city. The energy is really nice here and I have a really great time. We shot “Prince Avalanche” just outside of Austin in Bastrop, so I got to know the city a little bit then.
When will we see you again in Austin? I’m not sure. David Gordon Green and a lot of other filmmakers and writers that he’s worked with all live out here. They have a sort of filmmaker clique out here. And, because I worked with David on Prince Avalanche, I really like hanging out here. Austin is like a nice little retreat.
PHOTO CREDIT UNIVERSAL STUDIOS
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Q &AT X
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Jewel An Austin
Kendra Scott Shines On
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BY DANIEL RAMIREZ PHOTOS BY KELLY RUCKER
I
cons aren’t simply born. They’re made. Forged in the fires of countless challenges, each is honed by trial and error and polished in the light of public regard. Emerging clean from this refining process, it is plain to all that something spectacular has been crafted. Shining like the sun and serving as a beacon to all, an icon is a reminder of what can be accomplished, of what heights may be reached. And, like fine pieces of jewelry that catch every beam of light and every eye in a room, an icon stands out, distinguishing itself from a host of others and possessing a timeless quality that few others may share. If all of this poetic liberty seems misplaced, consider the Austin icon that is Kendra Scott. Her story, full of trials and challenges, of obstacles overcome and triumph unparalleled, helps to define the title of ‘icon’ itself. Of course, that title is granted for more liberally to the pieces of jewelry that bear her name, which are a staple of the fashion world, gracing ears and necklines from Austin notables to Hollywood cover women. And they are recognized almost immediately wherever they are seen. Unmistakably, everyone knows when someone is wearing Kendra Scott. In the nearly five years since she last graced the cover of this publication, the popularity of Scott’s jewelry evolved from designs that were placed in jewelry outlets to a store that bears the name of the brand. Additionally, that success has multiplied into an ever-expanding line and a continued success that shows no signs of slowing. The store, which took root in the center of the South Congress retail district, is now a city staple and has paved the way for a national expansion. “A little over three years ago, we opened our very first storefront right here in Austin, and that was one of the moments that truly allowed our brand to grow to what it is today,” Scott remembers. “Since that year, we have more than doubled our revenue each year – we now have nine stores across the country, with six planned to open in the near future.” For Kendra, that pivotal moment and the prosperity that followed are inextricable from the place she has called home for nearly two decades. “Austin is a perfect place to start a business, and I truly believe that this city gave us our wings to fly,” she explains. “I feel so lucky for my business to have its roots here,” Scott continues. And she’s always had a feeling about the town, always a magnetic pull to the city that now proudly claims her as a ‘local.’ When asked if she would consider moving, thanks to the demand for her designs and fashion eye in style capitals around the world, her response is clear and emphatic. “Austin is my home base and will remain so because of many reasons, the first being that it such an incredible city to raise a family in,” Scott explains. She accurately conveys our city’s inclusive and welcoming attitude in her evaluation, explaining that it isn’t just a place for a family, but that Austin itself is a family. “The sense of community and family here is just unbelievable,” she continues. “Austinites embrace and support each other in everything.” The success of Kendra Scott and her brand wasn’t instantaneous, nor without its share of difficulties. Managing family life while becoming the jewel of the fashion world is quite a handful to juggle, but Scott also managed to earn a Master’s degree from M.I.T. – an accomplishment that is incredible in its own right – in the midst of it all. When the challenges of managing time, brand or resources came, she was dedicated to her philosophy of safeguarding an optimistic outlook. “There were several things that I feel helped get me through the hard times – one was always staying positive and surrounding
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myself with people who believed in me and my vision,” Scott explains. She paired her vigilant dedication to hope with a relentless dedication. “Another vital thing that helped keep me going was never taking ‘no’ for an answer and not being afraid to seek help from others,” she explains. It is a sound strategy, and one that has served her well. Invariably, she offers similar counsel to those who may be confronted with an uphill climb in pursuit of their dreams. Scott says, “My advice for those going through hardships is to not let your mind be bogged down by the negative ‘what ifs’ prompted by the naysayers inside your head and around you.“ Testifying to the power that pessimistic outlooks may have upon one’s success, Scott continues. “’What if?’ will keep you from opportunities that may bring joy and passion into your life - it is the dream stealer that will forever procrastinate your vision, if you let it. That kind of mindset will hinder you from making decisions.” From small beginnings, inspired by an aunt in the industry to pursue fashion as a career, Scott has followed her instincts and drive since long before she was a household name. “I knew I wanted to follow her footsteps and tackle the fashion world, and my passion for jewelry became an outlet for that dream,” she says. She adopted an authenticity in her designs, a very personal expression of who she is and how she viewed the world and the beauty in it, as well as how she defined style, itself. “While my personal style tends to be classic, I love adding an unexpected something to my look that will cause heads to turn or strike up a conversation, and I think the best way to do that is through accessories, from jewelry to shoes,” she explains. And it is with signature accessories, which include her renowned earrings, are what the Kendra Scott empire was built upon. Despite her rampant success, Scott never ceases to leverage her success for philanthropic good throughout the city and beyond. Her contributions to charity are well known to the city, as she has long been a part of Austin’s Lifeworks/LEAP, who host events to raise funds for serving youth, young adults and families – supporting families and individuals in crisis with resources like family shelters and counseling services. “I began this company on the foundation of ‘Family, Fashion, Philanthropy,’” she states, “and that remains our company philosophy to this day.” With philanthropy as one of the pillars of her company and her own life, Scott has taken what many in the business world see as a luxury and made it a necessity. “I see giving back in a meaningful way as the true mark of success and what makes me the most proud is the fact that we’ve stayed committed to our three core values throughout our growth,” she says. The company even goes so far as to make it a part of the day-to-day, integrating their ethos with specific lines and specific causes. So when someone purchases what they believe to be simply a beautiful accent piece or accessory to their wardrobe, they are simultaneously helping the community around them. “From our Issie Heart Collection – benefitting the National Down Syndrome Congress – to our Lolley Necklace – benefitting Seton Breast Care Center – we are dedicated to giving back and supporting causes that are near to our hearts,” she states. And while Scott’s charitable efforts might seem heroic or extraordinary to the world at large, her perspective is more humble. “Establishing philanthropy as one of our core values has not only enabled us to give back to the people who helped make us a successful brand, but it has also allowed our company culture to thrive with happiness, positivity and a true sense of pride,” Scott admits.
She has every right to such pride, considering the trajectory of Kendra Scott as a brand and as a person. It is a direction she very much embraces with continued optimism, as she emphatically explains, “We have a very aggressive plan of opening up to 10 stores this year, and we know that success will depend on how we present ourselves in these new markets,” Scott states. “Eventually, we would like to have stores internationally – at the rate we’re moving, there could be a Kendra Scott store on another continent in five years or less!” Of course, the company can and does take the ‘girl out of Austin,’ but it cannot possibly take ‘Austin out of the girl.’ She clings to the city, despite the fashion world’s beckoning call, the increased demands on her time and the new challenges that present themselves. Scott emphatically claims the city and state as ‘home.’ “Most people think of Texas as a flat land full of cactus and dust,” she observes, “and while that’s true in parts of West Texas, Austin is home to the Hill Country and it is truly beautiful.” With her fashion-forward mindset and her eye for beauty, it is highest compliment to earn such praise. And for all that she is and all that she has accomplished, Scott herself is worthy of similar admiration. It only stands to reason that Austin take enormous pride in claiming the brilliant jewel that Kendra Scott is – as a true Austin icon.
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Austin Start-Up Culture:
One of the Best in the Nation BY AMBER GROCE
Confession: I’m a native Californian. I moved to Austin about 3 years ago as a function of my career in IT consulting, and I have to say, next to always saying “yes” to the next slice of pizza, that move was easily one of the best decisions of my life. Don’t get me wrong; there are a lot of great things about California and a lot of things I miss (I’ll always pick In-N-Out over Whataburger and I’m still searching for legitimate chile verde), but it didn’t take me long to fall in love with this great city. Austinites are a proud bunch, so it likely comes as no surprise when I tell you that Austin has ranked at or near the top of just about every “best cities” list for the last several years running: #2 in the Top 10 Cities People Are Moving to in 2012, #1 Best Big City for Jobs in 2011, and #8 in Cities Where a Paycheck Stretches the Furthest are a few of the more socioeconomic focused rankings. On the culture/lifestyle front we’re ranked as one of the best cities for foodies, one of the best cities to find a date, and one of the fittest cities in the U.S (which probably lends itself to the ease of finding a date). It really is a nice,
healthy balance between work and play. My story – moving here for a career in tech– isn’t unique by any means, rather, one that’s played out thousands, if not tens of thousands of times each year. The technology industry is one of the largest and most profitable in Austin and has been since the adoption of the moniker “Silicon Hills” in the 90’s. In an obvious nod (and maybe a bit of a challenge) to Silicon Valley, the nickname was a function of the large number of big tech companies that had created footprints here. Since then, the tech sector has seen steady and significant growth – not only with large, established firms setting up shop – but more recently, with start-ups. Merriam-Webster defines start-up as “a fledgling business enterprise”. Investopedia adds some financial color by observing that these companies are “often initially bank rolled … as they attempt to capitalize on developing a product or service for which they believe there is a demand.” Start-ups may be more prominent in tech due simply to the speed at which technology is evolving (tip of the cap to Ray Kurzweil), with
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new technological capabilities driving new ideas and new ideas driving new products and services. As such, it makes sense that we would see a large concentration of these new kids on the business block in places like Austin and San Francisco, another start-up hotspot. Depending on who you’re talking to or what report you’re reading, Austin and the Bar Area are ranked differently in terms of “best” for startups. It should be noted that much of that variability can be attributed to the criteria by which those rankings are defined. For example, the Ewing Marion Kaufman Foundation’s report “Comparing Metropolitan Performance: High-Tech and ICT Startup Density” ranks Austin at #10 in 2010 for high-tech startup density (a marked drop from it’s #3 ranking in 1990). GoodApril, on the other hand, ranked Austin as the #1 city to launch a startup business in June of 2013. What judgment criteria could account for such a discrepancy? First and foremost, the Kaufman Foundation’s report suggests that, “the most fertile source of entrepreneurial spawning is the population of existing companies…” Makes sense, right? Austin has plenty of wellestablished tech companies, but when it comes right down to it we still pale in comparison to the number of tech companies and the scale of their presence in the Bay Area. The San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara metro ranked #1 in both 1990 and 2010, which speaks to the size of the industry footprint in that region. To quantify the scale of the startup scenes in these two metros, let’s look at the figures for venture capital (VC) funding. According to reports by PWC MoneyTree and the National Venture Capital Association, the Bay Area and Silicon Valley combined accounted for over $10 billion in VC investment in 2012. Austin checked in at $626 million, putting the SF Bay Area’s total at approximately 16 times that of our own. With a total VC figure that’s just over 6% of the 800lb gorilla, how would we even accrue a single #1 ranking, as we did with GoodApril, let alone several in the top 10? It’s pretty straightforward, actually. As previously mentioned, these different rankings are defined by different criteria. Where the PWC and NVCA reports looked only at VC funding totals by metro/region (strictly quantitative), the GoodApril rankings took what I would consider to be a more well-rounded approach, looking at quantifiable elements that are, at their core, qualitative: median income for tech employees, maximum personal income tax, sales tax, cost of office space, cost of housing, and property taxes. Each of these criteria – and certainly all of them combined – can have significant impact on any startup’s ability to be successful. It also has an affect on a startup’s funding requirements. Cost of housing impacts overall cost of living, which impacts employee income, which impacts overhead (as does cost of office space), all of which impact start-up funding requirements. It’s all interrelated. Now that we’ve defined the criteria, let’s compare the data points for the Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos and SF-Bay Area metros:
This type of analysis ultimately speaks to quality of life, in my opinion. If we assume that a tech employee makes market salary, and assume that about 10% of post-tax wages is put into a savings account, it would take an Austinite approximately four and a half years to save a 20% down payment on a home. In San Francisco? Almost eleven and a half years. Of the 7 metros studied in GoodApril’s report, the Bay Area came in 7th. Austin beat out two other up and coming start-up hot spots in Seattle (2) and Boulder (3), all three of which bare similarities in median income and relative affordability of office space and housing. And getting back to dollars and cents, who is funding Austin’s start-up scene? While the total VC figure for 2012 might be small relative to that of a juggernaut like the Bay Area, there are definitely funds to be found. The Texas Emerging Technology Fund (or TETF) is an investment fund created by the 79th Legislature in 2005 and purposed with giving the state of Texas a leading edge in “research, development, and commercialization of emerging technologies”. The TETF not only provides funding for start-ups, but also for public-private partnerships and higher education to ensure Texas can recruit the best and brightest. Revisions to the original legislation have increased the total available funds to approximately $500 million in the last few years. There are also groups like the Texas Investment Network and the Central Texas Angel Network, both of which connect entrepreneurs in need of funding with investors on the hunt for profitable business opportunities. According to the Q2 ’13 Halo Report by the Angel Resource Institute, the Central Texas Angel Network, based right here in Austin, was the most active angel group in the country in number of deals funded and fourth for amount of capital invested. I spoke with a number of folks who are either actively working for or had worked for start-ups, from Managing Directors to Sales Executives, and there were a few common themes when I posed the question, “why Austin?” First and foremost: Austinites are tech-savvy and not averse to trying new technologies, apps, products, and services. This makes Austin a great sandbox and a place where companies can not only launch, but also refine their business models based on relevant feedback from a largely tech-literate user base. The second theme: SXSW. The potential exposure that a young company or idea can get at the festival is absolutely massive. Last year’s SXSW Interactive keynote was given by Elon Musk, the CEO of SpaceX and Tesla, and it saw major participation by big tech companies like Samsung, AT&T, and Adobe. If that doesn’t speak to the scale and reach of SXSWi, I don’t know what does. And last, but certainly not the least of the responses to “why Austin?”: the people. Austinites are willing to help others, make themselves accessible, and make connections to benefit others. It seems that folks here understand that there isn’t a limited amount of success to go around and are happy to do their part to help others achieve it. For all the variables involved in creating a good start-up culture, it would seem that Austin is the veritable “perfect storm”. SF BAY AREA AUSTIN-RR-SM But this “perfect storm” didn’t just happen – it was Median Income for Techies $123,497 $93,240 methodically, pragmatically, and thoughtfully forged. Maximum Personal Income Tax 13.3% 0.00% It’s the result of everything from an existing footprint from big tech, tax incentives for business, an absence of Sales Tax 8.75% 8.25% state income tax, and relative affordability of housing to Cost of Office Space $44.88/sq. ft. $25.54/sq. ft. a populace that’s immersed in technology, events that Cost of Housing $805,500 $206,200 encourage and foster success, and a people that are Property Taxes 1.1% 1.74% willing to help.
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A SHARED VICTORY The Wild Feathers Have No Ceiling To Their Success BY DANIEL RAMIREZ PHOTOS BY LESLIE VELA & FRANK MADDOCKS There is a story that plays out countless times in Austin, a town built for music. A group of local musicians get together and begin jamming as a band. Everyone gets a defined role, from the bass player with mystique to the guitarist with an ‘edge.' The lead singer’s ego stays in check and music begins to flow. And then, after hundreds of shows and a few years on the road, a single emerges and the band is an “overnight success.” The lead singer’s ego eventually balloons up to a massive size and the industry soon begs him or her to branch out on their own, because he or she is the “bright, shining star of the band.” The band then breaks up, a victim of ego and pop culture. It’s a sad tale that seems inescapable in the era of pop culture consumption. Marketers and fans alike are looking for “The Voice” or the “American Idol.” And, in both cases, the concept is singular. But what if there were a band who was so talented that each and every member shared the load equally? Meet The Wild Feathers, a hybrid of the two most music obsessed cities in the United States – namely, Austin and Nashville (with one Oklahoma transplant). Call them an super group from birth, if you will. Four of the band's members – Ricky Young, Joel King, Taylor Burns and Preston Wimberly were lead singers in their own rights before
meeting, enlisting Ben Dumas to join and creating something heretofore unseen in music. They are the band without a leader – the democratic band. “There are no egos in the band and that’s what makes us able to keep doing what we’re doing,” says Wimberly, who spoke with us as the band and our city readied for SXSW 2014. “I think we’re all down-to-earth, just humble guys who are able to join a team. It takes the load off, because we all came from separate bands. It’s just easier when you’re able to share the burden, share the load and be able to contribute.” Honing their craft and creating a unified sound, the band cut their musical teeth in Austin, where they were cresting a wave of Americana music that was rolling toward radio airwaves a few years ago. After working and touring and hustling, The Wild Feathers have broken into the cultural conversation with their “overnight hit,” a song that you might not know you know, but that is so alluring that when the first part of the chorus begins, you will likely find yourself singing along. The song, “The Ceiling,” features the integrated sound of four talents switching lead, switching instruments and creating a crescendo that can’t help but make the listener smile. If you need a moment to listen, we encourage you to find the song online and find out if it isn’t somehow a part of your memory already. It’s a popular tune, a fact which is not lost on the member of
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the band. Wimberly explains a glut of communications from his Austin home base, explaining, “It’s so cool. I lived in Austin for like eight years and I have friends and family call me and say, ‘You’re on the radio!’ It’s pretty surreal, really. We’re lucky that somehow it’s catching on and people are into it.” But the single and the constant touring didn’t just lead to popularity. As a band, these former leads have been able to realize dreams that were unheard of in their separate lives. They can be called a successful band, by both experience and accolade, though Preston’s humility initially denies that the band has arrived. “I’m still waiting on that moment,” Wimberly confesses, though he has to acknowledge that something is different, that some success has been achieved. "I guess once we got the approval to do the Willie Nelson tours,
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we thought, ‘Wow, we’re onto something.’ At this time last year, we were playing for nobody. Once we got these big tours like Bob Dylan, Willie Nelson and artists like that, it started to get kind of real then,” he smiles as he explains. The big tours prompted bigger expectations, but again, the shared load allows the band to maintain a solid work ethic. "We thought, ‘O.k., we’re playing with the best of the best, here. We’ve really got to step our game up and play the best we can.’ And that’s when it all happened.” So long as their unique formula keeps producing amazing music, it looks to keep happening for a band very much on the rise. The Wild Feathers album is available now and their tour of national festivals takes them to Bonnaroo, The Hangout and brings them back to Texas in early May.
CULINARY ADVENTURES Team-building exercises, hands-on cooking lessons and fully catered events for food enthusiasts utilizing the school’s 9,000 square foot garden, commercial kitchens, and dining room.
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SWEET ( and savory) INDULGENCE BY DANIEL RAMIREZ
It is all the rage in our foodie town. Start from a trailer, gain a devoted following and move into a building to take full advantage of demand and turn it into increased success. It has spawned a familiar term in Austin – brick and mortar – to differentiate a restaurant from a food trailer. Some meet with success. They transform a full menu that was crafted for the relatively smallscale production of a trailer’s confined space into a bustling restaurant that expands on that simple menu, now able to do more with a larger kitchen. But, to fill a brick and mortar space and the accompanying full menu from the a trailer that serves a single niche dessert – despite taking that dessert to outrageous tangents – is a Texas-sized challenge. Luckily for Austinites, Gourdough’s Public House was more than up to the task. Following the same path that restaurants like Odd Duck, Franklin Barbecue and Qui have taken to rampant success, Gourdough’s moved indoors after garnering national attention for their wild takes on the traditional doughnut. In order to do so, they had to take the concept of “Big. Fat. Doughnuts.” that defined and continues to define their trailer space and apply it to a full menu. To successfully manage the expansion, it was only natural to presume that they would have to abandon the ethic and embrace less-indulgent, more health-conscious dishes to round out their offerings. Surely, one cannot build a restaurant’s foundation solely upon bacon and maple syrup topped fried dough? Yet, over a year and a half since they threw wide their doors on South Lamar, Gourdough’s Public House is proving that the occasional indulgence, in nearly every form, is just what Austin ordered. From lunches that are half doughnut burger, half healthier side to the full calorie, full-plate doughnut mountain that Austin has come to know and love, the Public House is doing everything bigger and arguably better than its trailer-based parent. Take, for example, the impressive cocktail program. Now that they have a roof and seating, the Public House has created an atmosphere that is just as indulgent in drink menu as their established legend. As fans of spicy cocktails, the Sweaty Hipster appeals to the smoky, sweet and spicy palates alike, with its mix of jalapenos and tequila-citrus f lavors that practically define
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the Austin summer. Their Bourbon and “Coke,” however, is our favorite, using a healthier pour of bourbon to compliment a cola reduction that maintains the flavor of the caramel and sugar soft drink, without diluting the full flavor spectrum of the bourbon. Even the basics get a luxurious refinement, as a Baileys and coffee is turned on its head for the Tedious Day, a drink that pours the Irish Cream over coffee ice cubes. But, regardless of the additional bar options that a brick and mortar establishment provides, the reason one visits the Public House is to find out how many ways a doughnut can be served and still maintain the allure it has maintained since every child first tried the sugary pastry with a hole in the middle. The dishes find a doughnut as the foundation for stunning twists on traditional entrees. Burgers become doughnut burgers and sandwiches become doughnut sandwiches. And it seems like the natural progression for dishes like the Phat Club, which harkens to Monte Cristo sandwiches – which is also a menu option. But the concept defies the norm in creations like a chicken and creamed corn masterpiece that uses candied jalapenos and a version of a latke to bring to mind memories of family meals that could only call a Norman Rockwell paining home. The Country Clucker, as it is called, elicited the most dish envy from other diners upon our last visit, and a nearby table shamelessly but politely asked if they might sample a bite. To top themselves, Gourdough’s has managed to change even how a doughnut is perceived, adding doughnut dumplings to a slow-cooked comfort expression that is unlike any dish you’ve ever tried. And all of this is pushing the definition of a doughnut house and Austin’s culinary expectations forward. And, as we will continue to maintain, they offer the entire dining menu as supplement to the already global phenomenon that is their sweets. Thus, dessert is as fantastic as you can dream. It’s a strong move to put the doughnut front and center in a culinary town like Austin, and even bolder to do so in such a brazen and unapologetic manner. But with the sweet execution with which Gourdough’s Public House has managed the feat, we look forward to our next visit and you should, too.
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SXSWow We know how SXSW is going to go. We’re going to canvass the city and be everywhere, bringing you the “Best of Everything” that the annual city takeover has to offer. We’ll be at the film premieres, at the concerts and at the parties. And we’ll have more than a little to wrap up online before we present our next issue, which will feature all that we saw and did (and all the people we spoke with!) for this year’s Austin music and film issue.
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Ready-Made Austin Cocktails is hitting the ground running and getting us all ready for the arrival of Spring/Summer 2014 with ready-made bottles of amazing quality and even better taste. Far beyond mass-produced ‘skinny’ offerings, these mixed cocktails come in a variety of flavors that are perfectly paired with Austin days and Central Texas outdoor adventures. Check out what we have to say about these locally made concoctions online.
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Escape to Blanco Speaking of adventures, sometimes the best adventure is one that requires nothing more of you than a relaxing time. After your festival crazy, whether it is SXSW or Moontower Comedy Festival, there are few more desired destinations than a rocking chair with a view of a river. Thanks to a short road trip into the Hill Country, we managed to discover just such a place in Blanco, TX. Blanco Settlement gives each lodger full access to a “home on a hill” in the most peaceful of settings. Find out how we processed our time there and why we’re so desperate to go back.
Check out our online photo gallery of events from ALM issue release parties and Austin’s social scene.
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COSM IC C ADE NCE
BY K E L LY B E N S O N
HOROSCOPES
March & April With Mars in Libra until July, we're eager to fight for social harmony (an odd remark to say). Maybe it's time we stood up for ourselves, or our neighbors. Mercury is Retrograde throughout March - it's advised not to purchase vehicles, computers, or phones during this time. Be prepared to experience some goof-ups and glitches with communications and travel plans. Do your best to 'go with the flow' and you'll do just fine.
ARIES MAR 21—APR 20
LEO JUL 23—AUG 22
SAGITTARIUS NOV 23—DEC 21
If you haven't already been making connections with
When it comes to relationships you're looking at
This is a wonderful time if you have to sell, market,
people of common interests get ready, because it's
the big picture rather than getting bogged down
teach, present, or even act, Sagittarius. You can
soon to happen! You want to explore and push your
with the details, Leo. You're feeling optimistic and
easily convey your ideas to others now. Not only that, others are keen to learn more about what you're up to.
boundaries now and you need to meet some other
encouraging towards intimate relationships, close
adventuring minds along the way. You'll find you're
friendships and even business partnerships. Sharing
However, any purchases related to communications
drawn to radical individuals. You're eager to learn
a quality connection will be easier now. This is a
such as computers, cell phones, televisions, etc, are best done when Mercury goes direct in March.
and travel. Education and professional development
sweet time to play with someone special. You're in
opportunities arise.
a flirtatious, romantic frame of mind.
TAURUS APR 21—MAY 20
VIRGO AUG 23—SEP 22
This is an excellent time for all issues related to your
Your job scene improves dramatically now, Virgo.
personal wealth and you're ability to increase your
career, Taurus! Bosses, authority figures, and VIP's
You're keen to see the job done well and you're willing
earnings this year, Capricorn. Revising budgets
are viewing you in a favorable light now; you can
to put in some extra elbow grease to see results. This
and tweaking any savings or debts will yield some
see the big picture and you'll prove to be a valuable
also bodes well for working within a group dynamic.
healthy benefits. Postpone the purchase of cars or
asset to your coworkers. Others are ready to listen
Others are keen to have you on their team. Mercury
computers until March. At that point we see you
you to go ahead and champion a cause or promote
Retrograde throughout February may cause some
making some big-ticket investments. Your stock
something you believe in.
glitches, but no doubt you'll be prepared.
price is going up kid!
AQUARIUS JAN 21—FEB 19
CAPRICORN DEC 22—JAN 20 You're making some key decisions to do with your
GEMINI MAY 21—JUN 21
LIBRA SEP 23—OCT 22
Travel is on the table now, Gemini. However, your
You're cooking with gas Libra! Mars is in your sign for
Listen to your instincts now, Aquarius. You will have
ruler Mercury is retrograde for all of February (I
an extra long transit (until late July) and this gives you
an insight about a situation and this might change
know!). While you like to spin a lot of plates at the
a charge of energy. This is the time to lay down the
your style of approach - making you poised to find
best of times, be prepared that some things just don't
lay and defend your point of view. (You might come
solutions. Others are drawn to you and willing to lend
run as smoothly right now (forewarned is forearmed).
across as more assertive or bossy than usual.) You
a hand. This is an excellent time to promote yourself
Reconnecting with past love interests is possible now.
wont let others step on your toes now.
or cause that's dear to your heart.
(Leave the house looking good!)
CANCER JUN 22—JUL 22
SCORPIO OCT 23—NOV 22
PISCES FEB 20—MAR 20
It's time to get clear on what you want from your
Over the next few weeks you may find that you need
Matters to do with jointly held resources, joint
inner life and set that into motion, Scorpio. You can
to get some quiet time, Pisces. That's OK - you need
responsibilities, taxes, debts, and insurance issues
clearly see how to create a balance between your
some time to reflect before your birthday arrives. It's
are likely to be dealt with now Cancer. While this may
home life and your work life. (This can be a never-
important to let your intuition guide you now. You're
seem onerous, you will feel so much better once it's
ending juggle.) You're capable of seeing what really
getting ready to make some key adjustments to your
all done. There will be a perk or two after you've done
matters now and how to make the time to address
long-term career. Any area of study that appeals
some financial rejigging. A little research is going to
your needs.
should be explored!
pay-off big time.
To learn more about Kelly, visit kellybenson.ca austinlifestylemagazine.com
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K EEP AUS T IN W ELL
KEEP AUSTIN
WELL YOUR GUIDE TO LIVING WELL EVERY DAY
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Bride’s Body: Getting Austin Bride’s Fit for their Wedding Day BY CAMILLE GARCIA FOR KELLY KITCHENS, THE PROCESS OF WEDDING PLANNING IS SO MUCH MORE THAN CHOOSING VENUES, CAKE TASTINGS AND OF COURSE FINDING THE PERFECT DRESS.
“After getting engaged, I started thinking about how I wanted to look and feel on my wedding day,” Kitchens said. Kitchens, a group fitness instructor, is the founder of Bride’s Body, a group fitness studio for brides-to-be in Austin. Here in Austin there is nothing quite like Bride’s Body. Sure there are several workout programs that are tailored toward women, but there are none specifically tailored toward women who are planning a wedding. This program allows brides-to-be to get in shape for their weddings without neglecting other aspects of wedding planning. Once a bride registers on the Bride’s Body website for a 12-week program, they have access to 10 group classes per week, they get their own custom nutrition plan and they get to take part in monthly social and wedding planning events. These events range from having local wedding vendors present at the studio to having motivational and nutritional speakers help inspire the brides to live healthy lives. “Aside from physical workouts, we want to focus on building self esteem,” Kitchens said. “I think it’s so important if these women struggle with food or other emotional issues that we help them get to the bottom of that.” Another thing that sets Bride’s Body apart from other workout programs? The workouts—a combination of weight training, Pilates and kick boxing—target what the brides are going to show off most on their wedding day. “I call our workouts ‘bride specific’ since we focus on getting more back definition, toned arms and toned waist.” Kitchens says that along with getting brides in good shape for their wedding, Bride’s Body aims to create a sisterhood where brides can share in all the stresses and excitement that
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comes with wedding planning. “No one gives you a manual on what to do first. Luckily, my sister got engaged not long after me so for a whole year we were planning our weddings together and being on the same phase of life with her was so special.” Having someone to relate to during this busy time was key for Kitchens and made the process much easier and more exciting. This experience inspired her to create a place where all brides-to-be can experience the same support. “My goal is for people to see the same faces so they are building those new friendships since some of their other friends may not be in the same phase of life as them,” Kitchens said. When a bride-to-be signs up, they receive a complimentary Bride’s Body gym bag, sweat towel, water bottle, and personalized workout shirt with their upcoming wedding date and new last name on the back. Bride’s Body officially opens this month and you can sign up at any time. Check out the website, Bridesbody.com, for more details!
KELLY KITCHENS, FOUNDER
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Duck, Duck, Goose? BY CHRISTIAN RYAN CRISWELL
ZAK NORMANDIN, FOUNDER
LITTLE DUCK ORGANICS IS A VEGAN AND GLUTEN-FREE KID-APPROVED SNACK AND CEREAL COMPANY CREATED BY BROOKLYN FATHER OF
The product line features organic, allnatural and Kosher foods that are currently available at all Whole Foods locations around Austin. Austin Lifestyle Magazine spoke with Zak about his creative process and fun new ways to enjoy healthy eating.
THREE, ZAK NORMANDIN.
WHAT KIND OF THINGS DID YOU EXPERIENCE AS YOU CREATED YOUR HEALTHY SNACK COMPANY, LITTLE DUCK ORGANICS?
Starting a company is an all-consuming and arduous process; it's truly a roller-coaster. Every day is full of highs
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and lows. Days are inevitably full of stress, challenges and failure. When it's all said and done, it's an amazing learning experience and is extremely rewarding. Creating the brand gave me a chance to meet and build relationships with a lot of people. I attribute a lot of Little Duck’s success to that. DID YOU WORK WITH CHEFS OR CREATE YOUR OWN RECIPES?
I actually created our recipes based on what I saw my kids and their friends wanting to eat every day. Of course there was some trial and error (apples were always a hit; asparagus on the other hand, not so much). But the core of Little Duck always was and always will be “simplicity is key” - using
K EEP AUS T IN W ELL
THE TINY PARFAIT Makes 2 Tiny Parfaits INGREDIENTS
• 1 cup granola • ½ cup soy yogurt • ½ cup tiny fruit INSTRUCTIONS
simple, tasty, clean and nutritious ingredients with no added sugar. The three original flavor combinations of Tiny Fruits – Apple & Banana, Blueberry & Apple and Strawberry & Mango are timeless classics, and still our best-selling products to this day.
• Blend granola in a food processor, turning it into tiny, easy-to-eat crumbs. • Spoon alternating layers of soy yogurt, granola and Tiny Fruits.
TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT THE ALL NATURAL INGREDIENTS YOU USE IN YOUR SNACKS.
We source our products from the U.S. when we can, but it's difficult for some of the tropical fruits in our product mix. For example, our delicious apples are sourced from Washington state and due to the climate in which the best kinds of tropical fruits like pineapple & mango are grown; we source some of those fruits from organic farms in Central & South America. No matter where we source fruit, they’re all sent to the US for freeze-drying and packaging.
• Top with a mountain of Tiny Fruits!
YOUR PACKAGING STATES THAT YOUR PRODUCT DOES NOT
MIGHTY HEALTHY BREAKFAST COOKIES
CONTAIN ZOMBIES. DETAILS?!
Makes 12 cookies
You haven’t heard of the “zombie-free diet” trend? Kidding! We like to spice things up a bit on our packaging. A lot of kid’s foods can look and feel very clinical. Since our products use such simple ingredients that speak for themselves, why not take the opportunity to make parents laugh a bit? To answer your question though, zombies are bad things. No one wants to hang with a zombie. So, naturally, we would never put zombies in our products. No brainer. Get it? Zombie joke. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SNACK IN THE LDO LINE?
Blueberry & Apple Tiny Fruits is a winner. Handsdown. ARE THERE ANY NEW PRODUCTS OR FLAVORS IN THE WORKS?
Our goal is to make sure parents have a ton of options for babies and toddlers in the grocery aisles. Snacks and cereals are our focus, but it’s a long term goal to grow with babies and toddlers as they move out of the baby category. No matter what we do, expect it to be tasty, convenient and innovative.
INGREDIENTS
• 3 containers of Tiny Oats • 2 ripe bananas • 1 cup unsweetened applesauce • 1/3 cup dried fruit (raisins, cherries, cranberries - you pick!) • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or almonds • 1 tsp vanilla extract • 1/2 tablespoon cinnamon • 1/2 tsp nutmeg INSTRUCTIONS
• Preheat oven to 350 degrees. • Mash bananas with a fork. • Add applesauce, vanilla, and spices to bananas. Mix well. • Combine with Tiny Oats, dried fruit, and nuts.
• Drop 1" round spoonfuls on a parchment-lined cookie tray. • Flatten each cookie with a fork or spatula. • Bake for 30 minutes on 350 degrees.
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K EEP AUS T IN W ELL
How to Schedule Down-Time for Work/Life Balance BY LISA TALEV
“TOO BUSY” IS THE NEW NORMAL. In our productivity-oriented society, being too busy to think straight is almost a badge of pride: I must be very important if I am working all the time. The idea that our value as humans can be measured by how much we accomplish may sound plausible, but when you factor in everything a human needs to live a fulfilling life, it’s toxic. Work can provide a sense of meaning and purpose. But when it dominates your life such that you put your basic needs last, it’s a problem. Scientific researchers and integrative medicine doctors have been conducting studies for years now, proving the relationship between the classic Type-A Personality and chronic health problems, both physical and psychological. If you Google the term adrenal fatigue, you may be shocked to learn that nearly 80% of Americans experience this condition, commonly known as burnout. Adrenal fatigue is actually part of our obesity epidemic. Once it becomes a medical condition, it affects our ability to sleep, impairs fat-burning, disrupts hormone balance, increases emotional volatility, clouds judgment and makes us more accident-prone and vulnerable to disease. While some short-term stress is healthy to keep us sharp, it’s a serious problem when it’s non-stop, long-term. Pulling an all-nighter to write a final paper is one thing. Working 60+ hours per week at a high-stress job year after year is another. BREAKS ARE AS IMPORTANT AS MEETINGS
When a computer that’s been running too many programs freezes up, the best thing to do is reboot. The human equivalent to the hard-reboot is taking a power nap or exercise break, to recharge and reintegrate the whole system. Many people hold the mistaken assumption that taking a nap or working out will derail them from an important project. While this may be true for a twohour nap or 10 mile run, taking a 20-30 minute break can make you much more productive. Knowing your own rhythms is vital to productivity. You may notice you start feeling distracted, irritable or mentally exhausted after a certain number of uninterrupted work hours. Work with that understanding, rather than fighting your natural flow. Schedule yourself breaks--which you consider as important as meetings. Leave your desk. Do something that turns off workoriented, analytical thinking. A relaxed mind is a creative mind,
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and often creativity is what’s needed to approach a complex problem. Just as weight lifters rest between sets, mental athletes also need to take breaks. It may be useful to observe how often you engage in aimless procrastination (which actually drains you rather than inspires your creativity). If you dedicate half the time you usually waste procrastinating to active rest, you’ll be much more effective. DITCHING TOXIC GUILT
Self-denial is nothing new; it’s been taught throughout the ages that “good people” put their own needs last. Self-care is misperceived as “self-indulgent.” If you understand the importance of charging a cell phone, however, you should give yourself permission to take breaks as needed. We all know the saying, “put on your own oxygen mask before helping others.” When it comes to self-care, it’s important to realize that being well rested and clear-headed is a gift to everyone around you. Which means it’s the opposite of self-indulgence. THE IMPORTANCE OF COMPARTMENTALIZING
There is a Buddhist teaching, “When working just work; when being just be.” Especially if you have a high-stress job, it’s critical to establish what your work hours are—and enforce time off as me-time. If you leave work at 6pm, turn off work-related devices at that time. End of work day means “on vacation till tomorrow.” Only slaves work round the clock, unpaid. Don’t use your own free will to make yourself a slave. Make evenings at home sacred time, where you reconnect with friends, family and yourself. Engage in creative projects that energize you, skip long TV watching sessions (they actually zap your energy) and find polite ways to decline social invitations that drain you. If you have to wake up early every morning, realize that going to bed earlier than normal will make your body feel like you slept in. Not only will this make you more relaxed and pleasant to be around, but it will make you much more effective in the long run. Work/life balance is a dynamic state that you learn to master over time. When you give yourself permission to be human vs. being compelled to be a Unit of Productivity, you give yourself permission to succeed.