Life + Culture

Empowered women, empower the world

Five Austin women making a difference Article by Julie Royce | Photography by Stacy Berg In Ruth Bader Ginsburg's infamous words, “Fight for the things that you care about, but do it in a way that will lead others to join you,” these five Austin women have taken heed and are fighting for the things they care about.  Dr. Ellen Jefferson, Jacquie Benestante, Hailey Easley, Elizabeth Kahura and Lily Trieu share what drives them to be passionate about their mission and how they’re making changes...

Sports + Recreation

A way of life

How Austin’s female rugby club is changing the game Article by Kristin Finan | Photography by Kyle Gage Spectators who happen across a Saturday match of the Austin Valkyries are often surprised to learn that rugby – women’s rugby, to be exact – exists in the Texas capital city.  In truth, women’s rugby in Austin is nothing new. Founded in 1991, the Austin Valkyries is one of the longest-standing women’s rugby clubs in Texas.  “We usually get a mix of excitement, surprise and curiosity when...

Food + Beverage

Elevate your cooking with flavorful creations

Springtime recipes from Con O'lio Oil & Vinegars Article by Julie Royce Con O’lio Oil & Vinegars, a family-owned gem in Austin, is known for its expertise in offering top-tier extra virgin olive oils and aged balsamic vinegars. Founded in 2009 by Tabatha Conarkos and her late husband, the business has become a culinary destination for those seeking both quality and education in olive oils and vinegars.  With two locations in the Arboretum and Bee Caves, Con O’lio offers a hands-on tasting...

Health + Wellness

Regenerative healing and strength

CHARM Austin provides pain relief and recovery care Article by Julie Royce | Photography by Weston Carls Austin resident Sarah Rodts was over the moon to bring a healthy baby into the world. However, no one had warned her about how excruciating the pain from her difficult cesarean section would be.  For many women, postpartum recovery is an area that often lacks sufficient medical attention. She began researching options and discovered The Center for Healing and Regenerative Medicine in West...

Local Services

Austin’s oldest apothecary

Woman-owned business moves to Cherrywood Article and Photography by Natalie Grigson “There’s no other place like this in Austin,” The Herb Bar regular Amy Golightly said. “When you come in, you feel at peace. You feel comforted. It’s all about a community that needs to be healed. And especially right now—we need it.” The Herb Bar, a holistic haven cherished by its customers for nearly 40 years, is moving from its longtime South Austin location to a new home in the eastside neighborhood...

Home + Design

Investing in home and community

How McWalters Collaborative is transforming Austin homes Article by Julie Royce | Photography by Andrea Calo In Austin’s rapidly evolving real estate market, home renovation is more than a means of updating aesthetics — it’s a strategic investment in property value, sustainability and neighborhood preservation.  With demand for character-rich housing soaring and historic homes facing redevelopment pressures, thoughtful renovations offer a way to enhance functionality while maintaining a...

Real Estate

Real estate investment 101

E-Lit Realty empowers homeowners through education Article by Julie Royce In the local real estate landscape, E-Lit Realty has emerged as a full-service firm dedicated to serving clients from various socioeconomic backgrounds.  In 2016, at the age of 21, Karina Muñoz wanted to buy a home but wasn’t quite sure how she would afford it. She had the good fortune of knowing E-Lit CEO and Founder Julie Galarraga, who encouraged her to buy rather than rent. “She walked me through the whole...

Food + Beverage

Sipping, socializing & storytelling

House Wine has a new location in South Austin Article by Julie Royce | Photography by Casey Cunningham House Wine fits right into the eclectic Bouldin Creek neighborhood off South First Street in South Austin. With its brightly painted walls and lush floral decor, this cozy wine bar has been a staple in the community since opening its doors in 2008.  Over the years, guests have celebrated birthdays, engagements and anniversaries while sipping perfectly curated glasses of wine on the patio and...

Finance + Legal Services

Where there’s a will, there’s a way

Robbins Estate Law Firm provides select pro bono services Article by Julie Royce Estate planning is often overlooked, leaving many families vulnerable when tragedy strikes. Sixty percent of Americans lack a will or estate planning documents, exposing their loved ones to prolonged and costly legal battles, according to a 2017 AARP survey. Kyle Robbins, founder of Austin-based Robbins Estate Law, is working to change that, especially for families facing sudden loss. Since founding his firm in...

Health + Wellness

Investing in longevity

Halcyon Home is reimagining elder care Article by Julie Royce As the primary caretaker of an aging or disabled loved one, worries and fears are often part of a typical day. Creating schedules around multiple doctor appointments and making sure their social, emotional and physical needs are being met become the new norm.  With the rise of an aging population comes a demand for compassionate and knowledgeable in-home care services, and Halcyon Home has risen to the challenge. Edna Bradshaw's...