Health + Wellness

Dream Beauty Salon & Academy

Where Dreams Come True Article by Laura SanchezQuan | Photography by Sunny Rajabi | Sunburst Photography We sent our publisher on a field trip to experience Dream Beauty Salon and Academy's services and meet owner, Briana Rodriguez; here is what we found out. Q: What led you to opening Dream Beauty Salon and Academy? A: I’m excited to share a bit more about Dream Beauty Salon and Academy and the heart behind what I do. I began my journey as a cosmetology student in high school. I quickly...

Style + Beauty

Designs with Purpose

Fashion & Lifestyle Brand Aims to Make Today Ridiculously Awesome Article by Elaine Verde | Photography by Photography Courtesy of Consuela Consuela is a fashion and lifestyle brand known for vibrant, handcrafted bags and accessories. Founded in 2005 and inspired by Mexican culture, founder and Texas Native, Conni Reed, blends artistry with functionality while supporting Mexican artisans and their communities.  Consuela has grown from a one-woman operation selling at art fairs and festivals...

Home + Design

The Wright Holiday Design

Prepare for the Holidays with Personalized and Creative Design Without the Hassle Article by Kaylee Dusang Every year, people count down the days until they can show off their favorite decorations for the holiday season.  However, the effort to decorate and take down decorations each year is often a busy and overwhelming process. Kathy Wright, owner of The Wright Holiday Design, is helping people achieve their holiday dreams minus the stress by offering custom holiday installations and...

Home + Design

Restoring Galveston

Meet the Couple Safeguarding History and Breathing Life into Yesterday’s Architecture Article by Kelly Twedell & Laura SanchezQuan | Photography by Courtesy of Magnolia Network If you love watching home restoration shows, you’re certainly familiar with Michael and Ashley Cordray’s Restoring Galveston where the local Galveston Island couple share a passion for restoring some of Texas’ oldest homes.  Galveston is home to some of the most charming historic homes. From traditional cottages to...

Shopping

Modern Luxury Meets Southern Charm

Thoughtfully Curated, Handcrafted, Plant-Based Bath and Body Products - Made Fresh In-Store Article by Laura SanchezQuan | Photography by Sunny Rajabi | Sunburst Photography After spending more than fifteen years in the tech industry, Marisa Rzik, dreamed of owning her own business. She began exploring different brands and looking for something she could truly connect with and believe in. That’s when she discovered Magnolia Soap and Bath Co. As a mom to a daughter with eczema and sensitive...

Education

Engage, Encourage, Enrich

Combining Robust Academics with Lutheran Faith at Epiphany School Article by Laura SanchezQuan Epiphany school is preparing learners (from preschool through middle school) for life through opportunities of growth in a Christian environment. Read on to learn how they're equipping the next generation to make a positive impact in the school and the community.  Tell us a little bit about Epiphany School Epiphany Lutheran School weaves robust academics with Lutheran faith formation for children...

Life + Culture

The Wild Work of Corbin Maxey 

Internet Star, Animal Rescuer & Educator Article by Erica Hernandez Beneath a blazing Midwestern sun, an 8-foot pet alligator named Chompers, basks on a sandy beach next to her bridal bouquet. Loved ones took in the scene from afar as Chompers slipped into a pool flecked with floating rose petals. She wasn’t alone for long—Soni, her 500-pound alligator fiance, soon plodded off the beach and swam to her side. Standing on the beach was proud owner Corbin Maxey, a wildlife expert and YouTube...

Education

Ready, Set, Prep

Turning Disaster Preparedness into Hands-on, Heart-first Mission to Empower Kids Article by Stephanie Parnell When Michele Fortenberry first began teaching children about emergency preparedness in the late 1990s, she didn’t envision it would someday lead to a nonprofit serving hundreds of kids in the Houston area. But as the founder of Kid Prep, she now stands at the helm of a movement that’s empowering young learners to face life’s biggest uncertainties with confidence—and a custom-packed...

Local Services

Pawsitively Devoted

Meet the Heart Behind Livewell Animal Hospital; Blending Advanced Veterinary Care with Warmth and Compassion Article by Stephanie Parnell | Photography by CS3 Photography When Dr. Brendan Kennedy opened Livewell Animal Hospital in Cypress, he had more than medical care in mind—he had a vision. One rooted in compassion, communication, and connection, not just with pets but with the people who love them. “What inspires me most about Livewell Animal Hospital is the opportunity to improve the...

Arts + Culture

Storybook Capital of America

Visit Abilene & Your Favorite Characters from Children's Literature Article by Laura SanchezQuan Take one last chance for an end of summer road trip and take in the sites of your favorite childhood-books-come-to-life! When you first arrive at the Storybook Capital of the World be sure to grab their Adventure Guide and see how many of your favorites you can find! In 2017, the Adamson-Spalding Storybook Garden was unveiled on the southeast lawn of the Abilene Convention Center with thousands of...