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While shopping and doing business locally are rightly praised as a great way to keep financial resources close to home, there’s another aspect that’s more physical than fiscal. Developing personal relationships with the men and women who provide the products and services you need can be greatly beneficial, and faceto-face interactions help build a sense of community. The key professionals in these pages are more than excellent representatives of their chosen fields; they’re also your neighbors right here in central Oklahoma. These are people you should recognize, and names you should know. These are the Faces of the 405. 405 MAGA ZINE | AUGUST 2019
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(l-r) Dr. Tracy McIntire, Dr. Vincent Montgomery, Dr. Scott Searcey, Dr. Drew Wendelken, Dr. Michael Saumur and Dr. Ross Martin
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WISDOM TEETH, DENTAL IMPLANTS AND ORAL MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY
Oral & Maxillofacial Associates
We are six surgeons with four locations and one goal: to improve the health and lives of people in Oklahoma. We are Board Certified Specialists in Oral and Maxillofacial surgery, which is the surgical component of dentistry. Our surgeons have completed four years of dental school with an additional four to six years of a hospital-based residency to complete their education and prepare them for administration of anesthesia and surgery of the face, mouth and jaws. We are the experts for the safe and efficient removal of wisdom teeth. We have been treating Oklahomans for 25 years, with a focus on providing the best surgical outcome with the best patient experience. We want to offer an experience like no one else with our specialized implant teams, state-of-the-art equipment and high success rates for dental implants. OMA surgeons have performed thousands of dental implant procedures, and work closely with your dentist to ensure the success of your treatment.
ORAL & MAXILLOFACIAL ASSOCIATES OKC - 405.848.7994 | Norman - 405.292.8900 | MWC - 405.733.4296 Edmond - 405.341.4022 | omaok.com 405 MAGA ZINE | AUGUST 2019
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WOMEN’S HORMONE THERAPY
Dr. Noel Williams, Optimal Health Associates
More than a quarter of a century as a medical professional has certainly given Dr. Noel Williams an elite level of experience, but it isn’t just technical knowledge that gives his work in the sphere of women’s hormone therapy at Optimal Health an edge. “We’re focused on old-fashioned care,” Williams says. “We provide a human touch by calling with results, answering questions, caring for our patients with a smile … elements that often get lost in the modern health care system.” Optimal Health provides care for both men and women, and offers a range of services and treatments, but their use of BioTE® hormone pellet therapy sets them apart from other providers, and serves as an example of how well they meet their goal of marrying scientific developments with individualized attention. BioTE® has the same molecular structure as human hormones, lasts longer than other treatments and is the most widely studied form of natural hormone therapy, making it a great fit for Optimal Health’s stated intention of providing the most comprehensive and progressive healthcare possible. Dr. Williams’s penchant for Converse sneakers, his philosophy degree and his love of science fiction all serve as indicators of his unique personality – and also give a glimpse of his approach towards medicine. “I want to treat each woman holistically,” Dr. Williams says. “I want to look at the big picture, and make sure their everyday life is as good as possible.” “At Optimal Health, we endeavor to treat the whole person, not just symptoms.”
OPTIMAL HEALTH ASSOCIATES 9800 Broadway Ext #200 | 405.715.4496 optimalhealthassociates.com 54
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MORTGAGE BANKING
Jane Christiansen Commerce Bank® For many people, the process of buying a new home can be a daunting process. That’s why Jane Christiansen, a Mortgage Banker for Commerce Bank®, an equal housing lender, said she works to make every home loan application as easy as possible. “Today, there are a multitude of loan products available, for just about every home buyer, and the majority of our borrowers choose to apply on the Commerce Bank website,” she says. “Once someone applies for a loan, I’m there every step of the way – my cell phone is always on, and I try to make it as smooth as possible.” Christiansen said she can now offer down payment assistance for first-time buyers, 3-percent-down conventional loans and a variety of government loan products. There are also loan options for established home buyers, too, including high-loan-to-value jumbo purchase and cash out loans, 100 percent jumbo purchase and even a medical school debt refinance program, she said. On top of that, every loan is backed by Commerce Bank®’s 155-year history of strength and stability, and if you get your loan from Commerce Bank®, that’s where you’ll pay it, as well. “In this day and age, it’s easy to take an online application and never meet the customer face-to-face,” she says. “I make sure to meet all my clients, listen to their needs to ensure they get the loan that’s right for them – and I try to personally go to every closing. “When you add it all up, my favorite part of my job is simply helping my customers purchase a home,” Christiansen says. “The best day of the whole transaction is when everybody is happy at the closing.”
COMMERCE BANK 405.254.3010 | commercebank.com NMLS# 1509266 405 MAGA ZINE | AUGUST 2019
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PRIVATE BANKING
Jason Osborn, Jake McGuire, and Stephanie Comer The Private Bank at Valliance Established in 2004 as a solution for executives and business owners who were looking for customized answers to banking needs, Valliance Bank developed quickly into a truly modern entity by coordinating high-level, technology-based financial options with old school personal service … and a private banking leader was born. While private banking has previously been associated only with extremely high net worth clients, Valliance has helped bring the service of “Relationship Banking” to a new sector of consumers, professionals and small businesses that can also benefit from a personal banker and individualized attention. Private bankers can provide straightforward financial services, or go as intricate as helping a client with business strategy, and the responsiveness that’s been engineered into Valliance Bank’s model keeps satisfying customers’ needs at the forefront of every business day. Metro professionals and small business owners can enjoy individual tailored financing and direct access to a personal banker through Valliance, and also get assistance streamlining financial matters, even if their schedule is challenging. “We simplify the financial lives of our clients by giving them a team of people to serve all their financial needs,” says Jason Osborn, President of The Private Bank at Valliance. “For busy professionals and business owners, we minimize the time spent on banking matters by consolidating to one relationship, allowing them to keep their focus on what makes them money.” Valliance Bank has become the face of private banking in the metro by endeavoring to understand all of the challenges facing busy individuals, and by making “banker’s hours” your hours.
(l to r) Stephanie Comer, Assistant Vice President at The Private Bank at Valliance; Jason Osborn, President at The Private Bank at Valliance and Jake McGuire; Vice President at The Private Bank at Valliance
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THE PRIVATE BANK AT VALLIANCE 405.792.6400 | vbank.com
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COMPREHENSIVE DENTISTRY Lori LoVette, DDS
You might think when you first read it that the term “Comprehensive Dentistry” simply refers to the ability to provide a long list of dental care options, but Lori LoVette, DDS, believes that the definition goes deeper. “Comprehensive dentistry doesn’t just refer to a wide range of dental procedures,” Dr. LoVette explains. “It encompasses how we, as dental professionals, can affect the whole body with the work we do.” Make no mistake, Dr. LoVette is indeed qualified to perform a broad spectrum of dental procedures, ranging from simple sealant placement to oral and maxillofacial surgery and prosthodontics. But the reward she and her staff receive is rooted in the same philosophy that gives her satisfied patients such a great and rewarding experience: Dr. Lori LoVette and company treat the whole person, not just their teeth. “For some, getting comprehensive dental care may reflect how much better they feel to have pain removed from their mouth and, in turn, how that can affect their systemic health for the better,” Dr. LoVette says. “For others, a new smile may make them feel more confident.” This “whole person” focus often leads to a “whole family” focus, with Dr. LoVette’s practice treating everyone from children to older adults – there’s something for everyone with Dr. LoVette. “We love building long-term relationships with our patients, and watching families grow.”
(l to r) Ashley Mendoza, Dr. Lori LoVette, Nicole Easley, Debi Kirk, not pictured: Cora Reed
LORI LOVETTE, DDS 1211 N Shartel Ave Suite 1002 | 405.525.5555 | drlorilovette.com 405 MAGA ZINE | AUGUST 2019
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PET PHOTOGRAPHY
Priscilla Forehand Lap of Luxury: Lifestyle Pet Photography
Whether it’s on the wall, on a desk or on social media, most of us have family photos somewhere. But, when folks in the 405 want quality portraits of their four-legged family members, they call lifestyle pet photographer Priscilla Forehand. “Any animal can be a member of someone’s family, and it’s always fun for me to photograph them in their own home, wherever that may be,” she says. “One of my most enjoyable sessions was photographing a 180-pound Great Dane lounging by the pool, and I recently traveled to Woodward, where I photographed Hereford and Brahman bulls!“ As anyone who’s ever tried to get their pet to “sit” for a photo knows, photographing animals isn’t always easy. For Forehand, however, a love of animals combined with her photography skills makes all the difference. “Pet photography can be challenging, and it takes passion and patience, much like photographing babies,” she says. “I’ve been very lucky, because it seems to come naturally and I’ve never had to struggle with it. There have been a few shy cats along the way who simply preferred not to be photographed, though!” As many clients do display their pet’s portraits along with their family photos, Forehand works to capture every animal’s unique personality, and she even offers a photo package to document various stages in a kitten or puppy’s first year. On top of that, she’s also compiling a book, titled Okie Cats, featuring images of cats from every county in Oklahoma. “Animals, photography, and cat advocacy are my passions, so I’m fortunate to be able to do what I do,” she says. “But my heart and soul is going into it, too.”
LAP OF LUXURY: LIFESTYLE PET PHOTOGRAPHY 405.496.6737 | priscilla@luxepetfoto.com @luxepetfoto | @okie_cats 58
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ENTERTAINMENT
Chris Semrau, General Manager Michael Owens, Assistant General Manager Chesapeake Energy Arena If you’ve noticed an uptick in big-name concerts at Chesapeake Energy Arena lately, you’re not alone; even Mayor David Holt has tweeted about it. But the people you might not notice are the ones who bring those shows to the ‘Peake: General Manager Chris Semrau and Assistant General Manager Michael Owens. “We’ve aggressively worked to increase the quantity and quality of signature events at the Chesapeake Arena,” Semrau says. “We’re constantly leveraging the industry relationships we’ve built over the years to bring big-name acts to OKC.” Something else the public doesn’t see is all the work the Chesapeake crew puts in to make every event a first-class experience, for the public and the artists. And whether it’s a sold-out Thunder game or a once-in-a-lifetime concert event, Owens said his goal is the same. “We try to provide a high level of hospitality for everything we do, for the ticket-buyers in the seats and the artists and their crew backstage,” he says. “We always want the fans to have a great time at Chesapeake Arena, but we also want to create a unique, unforgettable backstage experience that makes the artists want to come back to Oklahoma City.” While Semrau and Owens remain committed to bringing more top touring acts to Chesapeake Arena, both men share even higher aspirations. “Ultimately, we want Oklahoma City to be known everywhere for its live music scene,” Owens says. “All of the local venues are booking bigger and better shows, and there’s a lot of momentum here right now. We’re grateful to be a part of that, and all the credit goes to the fans who buy tickets and support live music.”
CHESAPEAKE ENERGY ARENA 405.602.8700 | chesapeakearena.com 405 MAGA ZINE | AUGUST 2019
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ENDODONTIC DENTISTRY
Dr. Victoria Ball Contemporary Endodontics of Oklahoma In modern parlance, a root canal has become synonymous with the utmost in pain and anguish. However, Dr. Victoria Ball, an Endodontist specializing in root canal procedures and periapical surgery, said it’s her job to prove that association isn’t true. “A lot of patients who need a root canal are in pain and fear seeking treatment,” Dr. Ball says. “The fact is, thanks to modern technology, a root canal procedure takes less time and has a higher success rate than ever before. The majority of patients leave feeling better than when they came in.” A root canal is a fairly common procedure, and could be required due to a deep cavity close to the nerve of the tooth, dental trauma, a crack in the tooth, or resorption. However, Dr. Ball said her role as an Endodontist – a dentist who specializes in saving teeth – is much less common. In fact, she’s one of only 18 Endodontists in the 405, and the only female private practice owner. Finally, while she said the anatomy of each tooth presents a unique challenge, Dr. Ball said her goal is singular: to provide the highest level of endodontic care and achieve the best results for each patient. “Unfortunately, some teeth are past the point of saving, and in those situations we use 3D imaging, microscope examination and experience to make the proper diagnosis,” she says. “That said, I believe that no tooth should ever be pulled if it can be saved! There’s nothing more satisfying to me than taking a patient’s pain away and helping them to save their natural teeth.”
CONTEMPORARY ENDODONTICS OF OKLAHOMA 2916 Astoria Way, Suite 100, Edmond, OK 73034 405.285.5042 | info@ceoklahoma.com | ceoklahoma.com 60
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CUSTOM FINE JEWELRY
Valerie Naifeh Naifeh Fine Jewelry
Clarity, in the jewelry business, is one quality that determines the value of a gemstone. When jewelry designer Valerie Naifeh opened Naifeh Fine Jewelry in 1998, she chose to pursue a comparable value. “I am fierce about transparency in everything we do, and I want to serve our clients with honesty and integrity,” she says. “Our membership in the American Gem Society holds us to rigorous ethical standards, and our clients see us as a trusted resource for quality, one-of-a-kind jewelry and gemstones.” To better showcase the jewelry she designs, manufactures and sells, Naifeh recently moved to a newly renovated 5,700-square-foot location in the heart of Nichols Hills Plaza. While it offers room for a larger selection of jewelry, windows into the jewelry workshop and even a belt buckle bar for men, she says the new store is primarily focused on the customer experience. “Our new location is designed with natural light and an open-air showroom. I want people to be as comfortable in the store as they are in their own living room,” she says. “I don’t think you have to be in New York or Los Angeles to be a great jewelry store; our clients have come to expect extraordinary jewelry at an outstanding value right here.” The one thing that hasn’t changed, however, is that Valerie Naifeh’s designs are still the centerpiece of Naifeh Fine Jewelry, including the store itself. “After 36 years in the business – building connections with jewelry and gemstone dealers worldwide – I still get the greatest satisfaction from custom-designing and creating a piece that’s as individual as each customer,” Naifeh says. “To me, jewelry is art. Why buy a piece of jewelry when you can own a work of art?”
NAIFEH FINE JEWELRY 405.607.4323 | naifehfinejewelry.com 405 MAGA ZINE | AUGUST 2019
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IV THERAPY
Joshua and Sara Gore Revitalize Hydration Therapy Husband and wife team Joshua Gore, MD, and Sara Gore, APRN, started Revitalize Hydration Therapy in 2016 as a way to provide Oklahoma metro residents with a cutting-edge series of treatments designed to provide a wellness boost for everything from skincare to workout recovery. The manifold health benefits of IV hydration therapy, which include immune system strengthening, increased metabolism and fat burning potential, as well as skin rejuvenation and the improvement of chronic conditions such as seasonal allergies, are now easily accessible and able to be customized to individual needs. Dr. Gore’s background as a board-certified anesthesiologist has shaped a conscientiousness about methods proven by science, and his experience as a former University of Oklahoma national champion gymnast means that he is committed to solutions that reliably aid recovery for active people. Dr. Gore believes that the infusion and injection services that Revitalize Hydration provide are the ultimate in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Dehydration can also negatively affect cognitive performance, as well as impact your physical well-being, and the mind-body connection has the potential to be greatly enhanced when both systems are running optimally. IV hydration is a common denominator in cures for both spheres, making it the next-generation response for those looking for lifestyle benefits. Thanks to Revitalize Hydration Therapy, innovative IV hydration solutions are local and accessible, keeping Okies at the forefront of wellness development.
REVITALIZE HYDRATION THERAPY 405.370.5705 | revitalizeforlife.com | @revitalizeforlife 62
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CANNABIS
Matt Baker and Ryan Vicedomini Lotus Gold Marijuana Dispensary In the short time since Oklahoma legalized medical marijuana, Oklahoma-owned and operated Lotus Gold Marijuana Dispensary has quickly established itself as the 405’s most trusted name in cannabis therapy. That fast start, according to owner and CEO Ryan Vicedomini, was built upon the success of his other Oklahoma-based business. “As we grew CBD Plus USA into a successful company, we developed a reliable supply network and our own quality standards,” Vicedomini says. “Using that foundation, Lotus Gold was a natural extension of the business, and now our stores focus on all aspects of cannabis and the Endocannabinoid System.” Vicedomini said that Lotus Gold was born from the desire to help those in need through more natural and holistic means than traditional pharmaceuticals. And while his customers are required to have a medical marijuana card (OMMA), Vicedomini also noted that education is still a big part of the business. “We’re not just selling a product, we’re selling an experience,” he says. “We offer top-quality, third-party lab-tested products, and our highly trained staff is always ready to assist you in our dispensaries. Beyond that, we also want to guide our customers along the road of cannabis therapy, even after they walk out our doors.” While Vicedomini envisions Lotus Gold dispensaries across the country, the best part of the business, he said, will always be the ability to improve the lives of his customers. “Through quality product, education and customer service, I want Lotus Gold to become the most trusted name in cannabis therapy nationwide,” he says. “It makes extremely gratifying work when you’re helping people live their best life!”
LOTUS GOLD MARIJUANA DISPENSARY 833.422.3758 | lotusgold.com 405 MAGA ZINE | AUGUST 2019
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LUXURY TILE AND CUSTOM ACCESSORIES
Sydnye Steen Artisan Tile Studio
Whether you’re building from the ground up or remodeling a home, the tile selections can set the tone for every room. And when homeowners and designers in the 405 want a unique, custom look for their tile, they look to Sydnye Steen and Artisan Tile Studio. “We offer the good stuff that no one else in the 405 has,” she says. “We’re the only shop in Oklahoma City to exclusively carry the premier custom lines New Ravenna and Maison Surface. We have something for everyone, and we’re bringing in new things every chance we get. I want our showroom to be a comfortable place where our clients can come to be inspired.” Naming her shop Artisan Tile Studio, Steen said, is an acknowledgement that many of the tile lines she offers are created by hand, by true artisans. With these custom lines, her clients can take a design they love, and customize the materials and colors to fit their taste. “Tile is like jewelry for the home. If you’re building or remodeling, this is the fun stuff,” she says. “It’s fun for us, too, because we get to help people select something very personal, fitting, and just right for their home.” In addition to tile, Steen said Artisan Tile Studio also offers an amazing line of custom copper range hoods and sinks. Both are available in a wide variety of finishes and textures. “Artisan Tile Studio is known for our quality and customer service, and going above and beyond for our customers is my favorite part of the job,” she says. “I take pride in helping my clients get exactly what they want, and I won’t quit until I find it.”
ARTISAN TILE STUDIO 7108 N. Western, Suite D1 | 405.242.2227 64
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CRIMINAL DEFENSE
Jacqui Ford, Jacqui Ford Law
Most people never expect to find themselves in need of a criminal defense attorney. But if they do, trial attorney Jacqui Ford said her job is to help them figure out how they got there, and plan a course for the future. “Anyone can be wrongly accused of a felony, but behind every face, there’s a story,” Ford says. “Understanding the story of how someone got to that point helps me map a path forward. We can’t change yesterday, but we have millions of opportunities for today and tomorrow.” Ford noted the success of her practice is directly related to the contribution of her team, which includes attorney Casey Davis and legal assistant Jennifer Reser. The team also includes a full-time investigator with 20 years of law enforcement experience. “Everybody in the room plays a part in understanding our clients and their perspectives. We all take ownership of what we do for our clients and we’re proud to do it,” she says. “Our core values are honesty, courage and compassion, and that is part of everything we do.” While Ford said she’ll always fight for justice for her clients, she also believes that helping repair the damage that’s already been done – without causing further harm – is an important part of every case. After all, if you burn everything down, she said, everyone gets burned. “People know that having me represent you means you’re serious about your defense. I’m not here to win at any cost, but I will hold the courts, the prosecutors and law enforcement to the highest standards of accountability,” Ford says. “I’m always here to help those who’ve fallen get back up. There’s nothing else I’d rather be doing.”
JACQUI FORD LAW 1621 N Classen, OKC | 405.604.3200 | fordlawokc.com
(l to r) Jennifer Reser, Jacqui Ford and Casey Davis
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PAIN MANAGEMENT
Dr. Blake Christensen Oklahoma Pain Treatment Centers Sooner or later, just about everyone will have neck or back pain. For some, it may only be a temporary annoyance, but when it affects your everyday activity, Dr. Blake Christensen, offers more options than surgery or living in pain. “I practice in pain management, which has two components: interventional treatment and medication management,” he says. “I review the MRI, CT scan and X-rays with the patient to identify, treat and educate the patient about their condition, rather than merely prescribing medication to mask the pain. I try to identify the source of the pain and then use minimally invasive treatments to reduce or eliminate that pain. Ultimately, I want to help reduce their need for medication.” Board-certified in both Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Dr. Christensen likened his minimally invasive approach to diagnosing with a needle rather than a scalpel. Using state-of-the-art technology, interventional pain treatment techniques are designed to keep the body’s structure as natural as possible while also allowing the body to heal itself. “Interventional pain treatment can be a viable option for people who want to avoid surgery,” Dr. Christensen says. “And patients will feel better and healthier when they can avoid the unintentional and unwanted consequences of pain-masking medication.” While his pain treatment methods may be advanced, Dr. Christensen says his ultimate aim is quite basic. He simply wants to help his patients take back their lives. “I want to help my patients get back the little things in their lives that have been taken away by pain,” he says. “My goal is for them to live pain-free!”
OKLAHOMA PAIN TREATMENT CENTERS 405.751.0011 | oklahomapaintreatmentcenters.com 66
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WINDOWS AND DOORS
Andy and Ainslee Crum, Pella of Oklahoma Pella of Oklahoma, the 405’s exclusive distributor of Pella windows and doors, was actually born as a hardware retailer, The Womble Company, in 1922. And, though she represents the fourth generation of family ownership, CFO Ainslee Crum says the firm isn’t sitting on its laurels. “For 97 years, we’ve been committed to exceptional quality and customer service,” Crum says. “Moving forward, our goal now is to grow the company from that solid foundation in a way it’s never grown before.” Offering Pella products to builders, commercial and retail customers, Crum says that Pella of Oklahoma now offers nine types of windows with something for every budget and every need. “We can offer windows and doors for every home, in any color, shape, or size,” she says. “Beyond that, we want to offer our customers solutions, whether that’s replacement windows that are approved for historic homes, innovative, technologically advanced windows, or by simply providing concierge service and standing behind our products.” Crum said that, since the company’s inception, the Pella of Oklahoma advantage has been their dedication to customer satisfaction, in both the product and the service they provide. However, as she looks ahead, she said that’s just the beginning. “It’s exciting to see all the revitalization going on in the metro right now, and it’s fun to be a part of that,” she says. “Pella of Oklahoma has been family-owned, family-operated, and has served our customers for 97 years; that’s our legacy. We want to keep evolving and moving forward, but we also want to build upon, and grow, our legacy for future generations, too.”
PELLA WINDOWS AND DOORS OF OKLAHOMA 537 E Britton Rd | 405.478.4350 pellabranch.com/oklahoma 405 MAGA ZINE | AUGUST 2019
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TATTOO REMOVAL AND SKIN REVITALIZATION
Optimal Aesthetics
Optimal Aesthetics, a sister company to Optimal Health, is now adding another dimension to improving the quality of life of patients and clients by offering safe aesthetic enhancement options. The spectrum of services ranges from the skin care line Epionce and eyelash-growth treatment LATISSE® to non-surgical cosmetic treatments such as BOTOX® and JUVÉDERM®, along with the leading-edge laser for resurfacing skin, the PicoSure. The Optimal Aesthetics team is made up of Bethany Cook, APRN, and Casey Keck, LPN. With Cook’s background as a midwife, surgical assistant and women’s health Nurse Practitioner, she has a passion for women feeling well and being comfortable in their own skin. She leads the Optimal Aesthetics team by providing medical quality injectables such as JUVÉDERM filler, BOTOX® and KYBELLA®. Keck joins her in this passion, and offers safe laser treatments and consults on skin care. Keck elaborates on the advantages of PicoSure: “The PicoSure laser rejuvenates skin to decrease fine lines and wrinkles, treats hyperpigmentation like melasma or sun damage, and also can help with acne scars and surgical scars, in addition to being a fantastic option for tattoo removal.” Optimal Aesthetics is committed to furthering the mission of Optimal Health by adding services that complement a journey of health. “Our goal is never to make someone who is 60 look 19,” says Keck. “Our goal is to help clients age with grace.” “We want them to look as good as they feel.”
OPTIMAL AESTHETICS 9800 Broadway Ext #200 | 405.419.3932 optimalaesthetics.health 68
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Casey Keck, LPN; Noel Williams, M.D.; Bethany Cook, APRN-BC
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EYEWEAR AND CARE
J. Carter Johnston, O.D., Physician’s Optical Most people who wear eyeglasses view frames as a necessary evil at worst and an accessory at best – but for the individual who wants to express their personality a bit more, Physician’s Optical provides unique luxury eyewear unlike anywhere else in OKC, as well as the expertise and advice to meet every individual’s needs. “We are proud to offer something different to the people of OKC,” says J. Carter Johnston, O.D., who has operated Physician’s Optical for more than 20 years. “We focus on smaller independent frame designers, who are more aware of and focused on quality, unique materials and design. We like selling frames that are produced in small numbers, made by hand; that are more unique than the mass-produced frames that everyone can find at 10 places in the mall or other offices around town.” Dr. Johnston also said that he is proud for Physician’s Optical to have been the first to bring several European lines to the state. “Many of the frame lines we carry can be customized by size, shape and color. Similar to being fitted with a custom-made suit, a custom frame can be made to fit the patient more closely than a frame picked off the rack. “We want our patients to have a unique experience, from frame selection to lens selection to fit, and the service that goes with it at the time of purchase and years down the road.”
Dr. J.Carter Johnston, Ben Blasi A.B.O.C., Gayleen Adams
PHYSICIANS OPTICAL Mercy Hospital Physicians Tower 4200 W Memorial, Ste 101 | 405.749.4285 physicians-optical.com 405 MAGA ZINE | AUGUST 2019
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BARBECUE
Brent Swadley, Swadley’s Bar-B-Q Brent Swadley came to Oklahoma to become a youth minister. Instead, thanks to some detours along the way, he established Swadley’s World Famous Bar-B-Q in 1998. And while the focus may be slightly different, Swadley said his restaurants are still part of a higher calling. “Swadley’s is a Christian-based company, and we wear that on our sleeves. We’re a ministry first – and we want to serve our employees and their families, so that they can put God first, their family second and work third,” he says. “We have one of the lowest employee-turnover rates in Oklahoma City, and I think their happiness is reflected in the quality of our food and the way we take care of our customers.” That food is what has made Swadley’s Bar-B-Q famous. Swadley said the difference is the restaurant’s slow-cooked meats and a commitment to making everything else from scratch, every day. “We time our ribs and brisket to be served fresh from the smoker, so that they’re tender, juicy and flavorful,” he says. “Our menu also features sausage, burgers, chicken, chicken fried steak, catfish, a salad bar and 13 different sides. And it’s all made fresh, every day.” Even though Swadley’s Bar-B-Q is still growing – the company now has six locations in the 405 – Swadley said he’s more interested in contributing to the lives of his employees, his customers and the communities they serve. “I’m grateful that we can be a positive part of our customers’ and our employees’ lives,” he says. “Our food is what brings people in, but I’m also proud that our restaurants serve as a place for faith and family to come together.”
SWADLEY’S BAR-B-Q swadleys.com 70
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(l to r) Keaton Swadley, Brent Swadley, Koltan Swadley
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FINE HOME FURNISHINGS
Amie Cook and Janice Carty, The Wood Garden Whether it’s the entire house, one room, or just one piece of furniture, updating your home requires a lot of moving parts. For Amie Cook - who along with her mother, Janice Carty, co-owns The Wood Garden - helping a customer put all those pieces together is her favorite part of the job. “Everybody has different styles and different needs in their home,” she says. “There are a lot of different ways to approach every space. I love putting all the puzzle pieces together so that when we’re done, our customers are not only happy, but they’re excited to start living in their new space.” Though trends and styles are constantly changing, The Wood Garden has been in the same spot in Nichols Hills since 2000, albeit with a few expansions along the way. While every item in the store is for sale and its inventory is constantly changing, Cook notes one thing has remained constant over the years. “We’ve always been very customer service oriented, and we want people to be involved in their own design,” she says. “I like to get a feel for what people like, what they want, and their lifestyles. I always want the space to exceed their expectations, but it’s got to be livable, too.” For Cook, livability is the most important part of the big picture. “It’s a big investment for someone to trust you with their interior design,” Cook says. “We want our customers to feel at home with us and what we do but, in the end, our goal is to create a space for them that feels like their home.”
THE WOOD GARDEN 7650 N. Western, OKC | 405.848.9663 405 MAGA ZINE | AUGUST 2019
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FINE CABINETRY
Jason Grife and Travis Morelock, Wilshire Cabinet + Co Oklahomans have a variety of choices when it comes to cabinetry, but the guys at Wilshire Cabinet + Co have set a whole new standard in fresh design, highly durable finishes and a customer experience that can’t be ignored. The traditional Oklahoma process has been to install unfinished cabinet boxes in a new or remodeled home, add trim, bring a painter into the home to spray a paint or stain and allow the cabinets to air dry. This is called “site-finished” or sometimes incorrectly referred to as “custom cabinetry” – but now, there is a much better way. A Wilshire cabinet is built to exact specifications for each customer in a quality-controlled manufacturing plant, using the finest materials and latest technologies. Each cabinet is expertly finished in the plant, quite similar to a luxury automobile: multi-layer finishes are heat-cured in a dust-free environment, resulting in smooth, silky, highly durable products. While almost everything that they sell is built here in the U.S.A., they also take pride in globally sourcing materials for cutting-edge real exotic woods and never-before-seen European laminates. This is the new standard. Co-owners Travis and Jason, along with their gallery mascot Cher, believe that their team’s combined 40 years of pre-finished cabinetry experience is responsible for their continued growth. “Our whole Wilshire team loves cooking and eating great food, drinking fine wine and enjoying time with friends and family. All that and more happens in the heart of the home: the kitchen!”
WILSHIRE CABINET + CO 320 W Wilshire Blvd | 405.286.6282 wilshirecabinetco.com 72
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Jason Grife, Travis Morelock and Cher
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Reed and Christi Savage SWAT Mosquito Mist Systems
As folks in the 405 spend more money on outdoor kitchens, pools, and patios, Reed and Christi Savage of SWAT Mosquito Mist Systems say their job description is pretty simple: Help people enjoy those outdoor spaces. “The fact is, no one wants to go out in their yard or on their patio if they’re going to be swarmed by mosquitoes,” Reed says. “Our yard sprays and misting systems let people enjoy their outdoor spaces without having to worry about mosquito bites.” SWAT’s solution for permanent mosquito control is their perimeter misting systems, which work while you sleep, emitting a 60-second mist three times overnight. Plus, Reed said, homeowners can operate the system whenever they prefer with a hand-held remote or with the optional smart phone app. “By spraying in the evening and early morning hours, we target mosquitoes when they’re most active,” he says. “It’s safe for pets, and it won’t harm beneficial insects like bees and butterflies, since it’s sprayed when they’re not active.” While they started the business in 2006, SWAT is also a family affair, as Christi manages the office and their three children also work for the company. For the Savages, that family dynamic ultimately applies to their customers, too. “We’re the face of our company, and our customers have sort of become an extended family. We visit with them several times throughout the season, year after year,” Reed says. “We take pride in our work and we truly care about our customers. And, by eliminating mosquitoes and helping them enjoy their outdoor spaces more, we can help make their lives easier and happier.”
SWAT MOSQUITO MIST SYSTEMS 405.610.7928 | swatokc.com 405 MAGA ZINE | AUGUST 2019
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NIGHTLIFE
Jeff Rogers, Rogers Concepts The club and nightlife scene in the 405 is always changing. But for the last 20 years, one constant amid all that flux has been the face behind many of the most popular venues: Jeff Rogers of Rogers Concepts. “The key is to stay current with trends and consistently evolve,” Rogers says. “It’s gotten more challenging as Oklahoma City’s entertainment scene has grown over the years, but I have no plans of stopping any time soon.” While he currently operates six different entertainment concepts in Bricktown, Rogers tries to focus on variety. From the Tipsy Tiki Dockside Bar located on the Bricktown Canal to The Pink Parrot Cantina, the larger goal is to create an experience for multiple demographic groups in all walks of life. And while operating clubs and restaurants in an entertainment district can be tough, Rogers credited his staff for much of his success. “In this business, working alongside a dynamic array of hard-working team members is a major piece of the puzzle,” he says. “A dedicated team helps provide a consistent structure, and that allows each venue to offer a fun, safe environment for people to enjoy every night.” With the opening of both The Sushi Bar in Lower Bricktown and Liberty Eats on the canal in the last year, Rogers successfully added “Restaurant Owner” to his list of trades and titles. And while some people might sit back and enjoy the fruits of ownership, Rogers says he’s just getting started. “I have exciting ventures up my sleeve for this fall and in the coming year,” he says. “I am beyond eager to continue expanding in the 405, and I look forward to continuing my passion for nightlife.”
(l to r) Chris Byram, Christopher Bridges, Rich Taylor and Jeff Rogers
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ROGERS CONCEPTS 405.388.6685 | rogersconceptsokc.com
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Diana E. Hampton, MD
Caring for the eye-related needs of countless Oklahomans with a whole-patient approach has always been the hallmark of Oklahoma City native Dr. Diana Hampton. From routine eye exams to cataract surgery, she provides care that serves a wide range of needs. “New technology has made diagnosing and treating glaucoma, dry eyes, diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration safer and easier. We are able to intervene much earlier and save the patient’s sight,” she says. Patients want to look and feel their best. As a result of her patients’ desires and needs, she has expanded her treatment options to include a range of procedures that can combat the signs of aging. “Once someone has brought their eyes out from behind glasses, they want them to look especially great,” says Dr. Hampton. The skin around the eyes is delicate, and needs to be treated carefully. An ophthalmologist’s office is a great place to ensure that your eye area is being handled with concern, and the rest of your skin will receive the same focused professionalism and respectful attention. “Our focus is definitely around the eye, but the treatments we use can be easily applied to other areas.” LED red light facials, high-frequency temperature treatments and PowerDerm kinetic dermabrasion are now available, with more treatments coming soon. Dr. Hampton’s preference is to offer services that utilize digital technology, are less invasive and are designed to reduce downtime. All in addition to the compassionate and comprehensive ophthalmological care that Dr. Hampton has cultivated in the past.
DIANA E. HAMPTON, MD 405.608.8820 | dianahamptonmd.com 405 MAGA ZINE | AUGUST 2019
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