Food + Beverage

Experience the Aroma

Giulia's Café is Aubrey's own version of “Cheers” for the entire family Article by Shannon Spake | Photography by Amber McMahan In the heart of Aubrey where neighbors greet each other by name and the sense of country and community run deep, there’s a café that has become a local gem where locals flock not just for the food, but for the experience.   Giulia's Café, owned and operated by Anthony and Giulia Porcaro, embodies the spirit of family, warmth and exceptional hospitality. Walking...

Life + Culture

Changing the Game

How Grit Ministries shapes coaches to be leaders on and off the field Article by Shannon Spake | Photography by GRIT Ministries Grit Ministries is redefining what it means to lead in sports, with a mission that goes far beyond the field.  The organization operates under Christian-based leadership principles, aimed at transforming coaches into leaders who inspire not only their teams but their communities. As their mission statement says, "Grit Ministries exists to glorify God through...

Life + Culture

A Charitable Spin on Secret Santa

How one nonprofit helps all local kids feel special and loved for the holidays Article by Gabrielle Bailey | Photography by Amber McMahan We have all participated in a Secret Santa during the holiday season at some point. Whether it was at school with our class or through work with colleagues, everyone has had the opportunity to surprise an acquaintance with a gift they wouldn’t have received otherwise. Secret Santa of Little Elm aims to capture this excitement every holiday season for...

Local Services

Staying Beautiful

How one nonprofit organization of local citizens dedicated themselves to preserving the town’s natural beauty Article and Photography by Keep Little Elm Beautiful The town of Little Elm has experienced significant growth, with its population reaching around 57,000 residents in 2023. A "Town with the Lake Attitude," Little Elm is home to North Texas' largest beach, stretching 66 miles along Lake Lewisville, offering residents and visitors opportunities to enjoy water sports, sand volleyball...

Professional Services

Introducing: Leia's Kids

Spreading hope and joy in the fight against childhood cancer Article by Shannon Spake | Photography by Amber McMahan When Leia Hunt faced childhood cancer not once, but twice, she emerged from her battle stronger than ever with a mission to help others fighting the same disease. She channeled her strength into Leia’s Kids, a local nonprofit dedicated to supporting children with cancer and their families. Leia knows firsthand the struggles these families face — from overwhelming medical bills...

Arts + Culture

Giving Back to Those in Need

Christian Brothers Automotive honors its mission to 'love your neighbor as yourself' Article by Gabrielle Bailey | Photography by Amber McMahan This past October, Christian Brothers Automotive celebrated its 14th-annual National Service Day to help those in need in the community. All Christian Brother Automotive franchise owners participate in this initiative as a way to honor the organization’s core mission: to love your neighbor as yourself. This is something Christian Brother Automotive ...

Food + Beverage

Ultimate Sports-Watching Experience

Enjoy luxury box seating for your favorite sporting events without the hassle Article by Shannon Spake | Photography by Alexis Jackson and Cameron Cowdrey There’s something special about game day—the excitement, the camaraderie and the shared thrill of cheering for a favorite team. But what if people could capture that stadium atmosphere every time they watch a game without the hassle of tickets, traveling and parking? Enter G.O.A.T’s Arena Sports Bar, the brainchild of a group of college...

Food + Beverage

A Slow-Smoked Recipe for Success

How one local barbeque gem is standing out in North Texas Article by Shannon Spake | Photography by Alexis Jackson and Cameron Cowdrey When a family-owned business thrives in the competitive world of Texas BBQ, they are onto something. Tender Smokehouse BBQ, a beloved staple in North Texas, is gearing up to open its fifth location, and the owners’ journey is a testament to their unwavering commitment to quality, community and faith. Founded on the principles of hard work, dedication and a...

Food + Beverage

In Whiskey We Trust

The Whiskey Wobble is the ultimate tasting and culinary experience Article by Gabrielle Bailey | Photography by Alexis Jackson and Cameron Cowdrey With the crisp bite of fall in the air, October is the time for festivals, enjoying the cooler weather and, of course, delicious cocktails and food. The Whiskey Wobble in Little Elm brings all these autumn elements together by combining unique whiskey tastings with culinary creations. While North Texas is known for its wineries and breweries...

Style + Beauty

Where Art and Personal Style Converge

Conspiracy Ink Tattoo commemorates personal expression and individual style Article by Shannon Spake | Photography by Amber McMahan In the heart of Little Elm lies a gem that redefines what it means to get a tattoo. Conspiracy Ink Tattoo, run by Dennis Matthews, is more than just a place to get inked — it's a sanctuary for art and personal expression. Although Dennis’ entrepreneurship extends outside tattooing, his passion for the trade has created a space that melds tradition with individual...