Health + Wellness

How Löyly Sauna Lounge Is Helping Houston Runners Reach Peak Performance Ahead of the Chevron Marathon

As Houston’s running community gears up for the Chevron Houston Marathon this January, preparation is in full stride—from early-morning long runs to precision-focused training cycles. But as every seasoned runner knows, performance isn’t built on mileage alone. Recovery, mobility, and injury prevention are equally essential for crossing the finish line strong.That’s where Löyly Sauna Lounge is stepping in to support Houston athletes. With locations designed for restorative wellness and a...

Health + Wellness

From Healing to Ritual: The Story Behind Löyly Sauna Lounge

Every great movement starts with a moment that changes everything.For Cindy and Dion Ruzicka, that moment came when life brought them to their knees — and then, through ice and fire, back to themselves.When Dion was diagnosed with lymphatic leukemia, the world seemed to narrow overnight. The path ahead was filled with uncertainty, but together, they sought out natural healing modalities to support Dion's health and recovery through nature, movement, and ritual. Guided by intuition and inspired...

Food + Beverage

If You Eat One Thing

Chardon reimagines a classic dish with a French twist, highlighting local fare and balanced bites. Article by Gabi De la Rosa Chardon is giving Houston a taste of classic French bistro cooking, with chef E.J. Miller leading the way. A graduate of Houston’s Culinary Institute LeNotre, Miller brings serious experience from kitchens like Riel, Coppa Osteria, SaltAir, and Muse. At Chardon, he blends his French training with local Texas ingredients for dishes that feel both elevated and familiar...

Shopping

The Essential Holiday Edit

A curated collection of gifts for everyone on your list, from luxe to playful picks. Article by River Oaks Lifestyle Staff Finding the perfect gift doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Whether you’re shopping for the guy who has everything, the gal who deserves a little luxury, the beauty aficionado in need of the latest finds, or the kids who make every holiday brighter, we’ve got you covered. From cozy robes and clever gadgets to luxe skincare and adorable toys, this year’s Essential Holiday...

Travel

Coastal Calling

An active, family-friendly escape blending adventure, wellness, and Caribbean beauty. Article by Gabi De la Rosa | Photography by Courtesy of Club Med Club Med Cancún sits at the very tip of the Riviera Maya, surrounded by three white-sand beaches and the second-largest coral reef in the world. It’s the kind of place that feels designed for activity because there’s always something happening, and somehow, you’ll want to be part of it.   The resort’s colorful ocean-view rooms stretch across...

Food + Beverage

Good Spirits Only

Step inside Houston’s coziest bars, where delicious cocktails and great atmosphere are infused into every pour. Article by River Oaks Lifestyle Staff Houston has a knack for storytelling, and that spirit carries right into its after-hours scene. Scattered through historic buildings and tucked behind unmarked doors are some of the city’s most inviting hideaways with bars and lounges where the mood is mellow and the cocktails are anything but ordinary.    When the weather turns chilly, these...

Life + Culture

The Nutcracker, By the Numbers

Houston Ballet's The Nutcracker returns with the timeless magic of a beloved holiday tradition. Article by River Oaks Lifestyle Staff | Photography by Amitava Sarkar, Courtesy of Houston Ballet For more than half a century, The Nutcracker has been a dazzling must-see during Houston's holiday season. Since Houston Ballet first presented the classic in 1969, generations of families have made it part of their December tradition, returning each year for the snowflakes, the sweets, and the...

Beauty

Holiday Glam Made Easy

FaceForward founder Andrea Simmons shares easy makeup tips and gift ideas for effortless holiday beauty. Article by Gabi De la Rosa | Photography by Photography courtesy of FaceForward Cosmetics For Houston makeup artist and entrepreneur Andrea Simmons, the holidays aren't just about festive lights and parties. They're about confidence coupled with self-care. After more than 24 years in the beauty industry, Simmons launched FaceForward Skincare and Cosmetics in 2018, bringing her signature...

Sports + Recreation

Give the Gift of Self-Focus

Classical Pilates transforms focus and movement through mindful alignment, strength, and intentional self-connection. Article by Allyson Straczek Kale Luhrman, owner and co-founder of Control Pilates Studio, was deep in preparation for the Houston Marathon when a knee injury took her on a different wellness journey and career path. Advised by her physical therapist to try Pilates, she started taking Classical Pilates classes at an Eve Gentry lineage studio in Wisconsin, even signing up for...

Home + Design

Family-focused business

Elise and Jonathan Williams learn from their own family as they help others craft new homes Article by Diane Cowen | Photography by Courtesy of Williams House LLC When homebuilders Elise and Jonathan Williams launch a construction project, they think about how their own family of six functions, both indoors and outdoors. The couple met as freshmen at Texas A&M University but didn’t start dating until they were nearly finished with their degrees. When they both ended up in Houston – Elise for...