March 2018

AUSTIN WOMAN MAGAZINE | MARCH 2018

“Entrepreneurs are willing to work 80 hours a week to avoid working 40 hours a week.” —Lori Greiner

More locations, less wait time. That’s the best kind of emergency care.

At St. David’s our goal is simple. To be the best. Which means delivering care based on your needs.

Your life is our passion. And that passion drives our purpose. Because you deserve the best.

Emergency Care

The Best Is Here.

16-SDM-1345 Austin Woman Magazine_V3.indd 1

9/15/16 1:44 PM

LIKE YOU, IT’S THE TOTAL PACKAGE: SMART AND PRETTY. Mazda’s smart safety innovations are what have earned it the IIHS Top Safety Pick for the last 7 years. With advanced technology like smart city brake support, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross traffic alert, you can feel confident and focus on what really matters -- the road ahead.

THE NEW 2018 MAZDA CX-5.

We’re Proud to Serve Our Community

GET MORE LUXURY. PAY MUCH LESS.

Nothing is as comfortable as StresslessÂŽ furniture. Our patented comfort technologies, provide perfect support by allowing our recliners and sofas to move with the movements of your body. And now you can fully customize your seating with a very special offer. Pay for fabric and receive leather at no extra cost or trade up from one leather grade to a superior one.

Special Savings

SAVE $300 on your

purchase of Stressless Peace recliners in select colors. * See your sales associate for complete details.

Receive up to $ 600 off Stressless® during our FREE Leather Upgrade Event.* January 26 - March 12 THE INNOVATORS OF COMFORT™

Stressless® is proudly endorsed by the American Chiropractic Association.

AUSTIN 2236 West Braker Lane 512.451.1233 SAN ANTONIO 18603 Blanco Road 210.545.4366

www.CopenhagenLiving.com

contemporary furniture & accessories

Christopher Brennig, MD

Austin Vein Institute State-of-the-art Varicose Vein Treatment

C h r i s t op h e r W. Brennig, M.D. CERTIFIED: The American Board of General Surgery SUB-SPECIALTY CERTIFIED: The American Board of Vascular Surgery

Va r i c o s e V e i n s Spider Veins L aser therapy Sclerotherapy

512.346.2727

7000 N. Mopac Ste. 320 Austin, TX 78731

Dr. Brennig is Board Certified in Vascular Surgery and in General Surgery. He is recognized for his expertise in the minimally invasive treatment of varicose veins, spider veins, recurrent varicose veins, and complex venous disorders including DVT. Please call the Austin Vein Institute to schedule a comprehensive consultation.

V e i n A u s t i n . c o m

Special Promotion

LIVING THE GREEN LIFE TEXAS DISPOSAL SYSTEMS AND PGA/LPGA DIRECTOR OF INSTRUCTION ANN MARIE GILDERSLEEVE WORK HAND IN HAND TO KEEP OUR COMMUNITIES BEAUTIFUL. Passion, dedication and purpose: These are the traits PGA/LPGA golf professionals like Ann Marie Gildersleeve and environmental stewards like Texas Disposal Systems cofounders Bob Gregory and Jim Gregory share.

Dell Match Play is March 21 through 25 at the Austin Country Club. TDS encourages visitors to think green when they’re out on the course, so together, we may be able to call the course the greenest green ever. The TDS-sponsored Women’s Executive Breakfast will take place March 20 at Austin Country Club as part of the organization’s effort to encourage women in golf and leadership.

TDS is a sponsor of the PGA’s Dell Match Play, which will take place at Gildersleeve’s home course at the Austin Country Club, and the team at TDS knows the golf experience and being green go hand in hand. The Gregorys have been pioneers in the world of environmental solutions, basing their business on sound, simple fundamentals and strong relationships since its founding in 1977.

Maddie Goldberg, left, gets a lesson from Ann Marie Gildersleeve. Goldberg, a senior at Hyde Park High School, will play collegiate golf at Texas Tech University this fall.

Likewise, Gildersleeve takes the same approach to her career as an instructor and golf professional, perfecting balance in teaching and coaching. She cites her mentor, golf legend Harvey Penick, as one of her influencers, utilizing his philosophy of focusing on the basics and instilling a love for the game by acting as a role model. Gildersleeve says the best way to help someone achieve their goals is to listen and understand what they desire to accomplish. By establishing individual relationships with her players, Gildersleeve is a distinguished leader in the field. For decades, she has been a well-known U.S. Kids Master Teacher and in 2014, was the first woman recipient of the Southern Texas PGA Section Harvey Penick Teacher of the Year Award.

Similarly, TDS applies those same principles to teaching the community to care for the environment, as it is vital to instill recycling habits at an early age. Just like Gildersleeve coaches and teaches her players, TDS teaches students through its Eco Academy program, now available at schools throughout Central Texas. The program’s curriculum is based on simple instruction, allowing students to develop a respect for the environment and establish eco-conscious habits for life. The program teaches the importance of building strong relationships with schools, teachers and students. Additionally, Eco Academy encourages students to share what they have learned at home.

As the waste service provider for the 2018 Dell Match Play, TDS is honored to partner with Gildersleeve to teach young people about the importance of being kind to Mother Nature. Together, they encourage attendees to embrace environmental stewardship on and off the fairway.

The future is bright for TDS, Gildersleeve and for the students they teach. As long as dedication and leadership continue to be taught, golfers and environmental stewards alike can know the next generation is in good hands.

For more information about how you can go green in 2018, visit texasdisposal.com.

@TexasDisposal

/TexasDisposalSystems

@TexasDisposalSystems

Surgical | Medical | Cosmetic

NON-SURGICAL SKIN CANCER TREATMENT EXPERTS

Tru-Skin Dermatology’s SRT-100 Vision utilizes revolutionary, FDA-approved technology to provide highly-effective and pain-free skin cancer treatment with excellent cosmetic results.

Board Certified Physicians • Medicare/Major Insurance Accepted

tru-skin.com

SRT-100 Vision is available in: Austin • Bastrop • La Grange • Kerrville • Bulverde/Spring Branch

888.451.0139

Contact us today to learn more.

Look good, feel good, do good. A portion of every service, patient visit and product purchase at Tru-Skin Dermatology is donated to The Shade Project and Skin Cancer Foundation to help skin cancer prevention efforts.

52

ON THE COVER

HEAVEN ON WHEELS

BY CRYSTAL ZUZEK

59

FEATURE

PITCH PERFECT

Photo by Keith Trigaci.

BY SUSAN JOHNSTON TAYLOR

CONTENTS

Photo by Ashlee Huff.

MARCH

64 SAVVY WOMEN

STYLE + HOME

20 COUNT US IN Women in Numbers 22 B OTTOM LINE Kate Lowery 24 G IVE BACK Seeds of Strength 26 F ROM THE DESK OF Hayley Swindell of The Refinery 28 P ROFILE Designer Ashley Green 29 P ROFILE Annie Lin of A Little Bundle

42 TRENDS Jean Genie 48 BEAUTY Bulletproof Brows 50 ENTERTAINING Round Top Redux

MUST LIST

66 G IRL WALKS INTO A BAR 68 F OOD NEWS Hank’s

30 D ISCOVER Summer Camps for Kids 32 R OUNDUP Spring Picks From Feast & Dwell’s Jessica Scott

ATX WOMEN TO WATCH

GOURMET 64 R ECIPE REVEAL Strawberry and Roasted-beet Salad Aviary

WELLNESS 70 W AITING ROOM Post-workout Pitfalls 72 D RINK THIS, NOT THAT Grass-fed

Butter Coffee 34 SASCHA BIESI AND YAUSS BERENJI 74 H ER ROUTINE Dancer Carol Brady 35 GLORIANA KOLL, KEESHA WAITS AND PHIDERIKA FOUST 36 A LANA CHANDLER AND ALEXANDRA WORTHINGTON POINT OF VIEW 37 JULIE ALBERTSON 76 I AM AUSTIN WOMAN Kristen Heaney 38 IRIS DAVIS-QUICK AND DOLORES DAVIS 39 TERESA ROBERTSON ON THE COVER Photo by Keith Trigaci, trigaci.com 40 JANET ST. PAUL Hair and makeup by Laura Martinez, 41 DEBORAH WHITBY bylauramartinez.com 10 | AUSTIN WOMAN | MARCH 2018

Veronica Beard Colson peak-lapel, double-breasted jacket, $595; Joie Aruna split-neck silk top, $178; earrings, $75, available at Neiman Marcus, 3400 Palm Way, 512.719.1200, neimanmarcus.com.

Shot on location at Sawyer & Co., 4827 E. Cesar Chavez St., sawyerand.co

3D Mammography Can Detect 41% More Breast Cancers.

Thanks Mamm!

One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer and over 75% of them have no family history. The fact is mammograms can find cancer before a lump can be felt and early detection saves lives.

Top medical centers in Central Texas rely on ARA Diagnostic Imaging for their expertise and knowledge. You can rely on us too.

Schedule yours today!

512.493.5850 ausrad.com/scheduling

A Leader in Breast Imaging ARAMammoFacts.com

VOLUME 16, ISSUE 7 CO-FOUNDER Melinda Maine Garvey CEO Christopher Garvey PUBLISHER Cynthia Guajardo Shafer

EDITORIAL EDITOR April Cumming DIGITAL EDITOR Lauren Jones COPY EDITOR Chantal Rice CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Nick Barancyk, Kat Barclay, Rebecca L. Bennett, Rhoda Brimberry, Sommer Brugal, Anna Crelia, Saba Ghaffari, Heidi Gollub, Kristen Heaney, Susan Johnston Taylor, Madison Matous, Gretchen M. Sanders, Elizabeth Ucles, Kristi Willis, Crystal Zuzek

ART CREATIVE DIRECTOR Niki Jones CONTRIBUTING ARTISTS

Rudy Arocha, Brynne Carter, Shannon Dyer, Ashlee Huff, Katie Jameson, Amy Jayne, Lauren Logan, Laura Martinez, Summer Maulden, Nicolai McCrary, Lisa Muñoz, Wynn Myers, Dale Pohlmeier, Rui Nakata, Maggie Rester, Courtney Runn, Jessica Scott, Jared Tennant, Keith Trigaci, Jessica Wetterer, Taylor Wilcox, McKenzy Windham

OPERATIONS AND MARKETING CFO

Ashley Goolsby MARKETING AND EVENTS MANAGER

Madilyn Biscoe OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR AND CREATIVE ASSISTANT

Courtney Runn

SALES ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Christine Moore

INTERNS

Nick Barancyk, Kat Barclay, Kyla Canavan, Saba Ghaffari, Riley Krauss, Elizabeth Ucles

EMERITAE CO-FOUNDER Samantha Stevens EDITORS

Emily C. Laskowski, Deborah Hamilton-Lynne, Mary Anne Connolly, Elizabeth Eckstein

Austin Woman is a free monthly publication of AW Media Inc., and is available at more than 1,250 locations throughout Austin and in Lakeway, Cedar Park, Round Rock and Pflugerville. All rights reserved.

For submission requirements, visit awmediainc.com/contribute.

No part of the magazine may be reprinted or duplicated without permission.

Visit us online at atxwoman.com.

Email us at info@awmediainc.com.

512.328.2421 | 3921 Steck Ave., Suite A111, Austin, TX 78759

premium

skincare prod ucts

*Receive $40 off a $75 or more voucher at time SkinCeuticals of purchase. One voucher per transac produc t purchase. Must present tion. Offer valid this through March 31, 2018.

FROM THE EDITOR I

have a confession to make: I watched my first full episode of Shark Tank the other night. Sure, I had seen clips of the show, had heard about Austin-based businesses like Chi’Lantro, Me & The Bees Lemonade and Monkey Mat—the founders of which we’re proud to profile in this issue—that had made pitch appearances on the show. I had just never sat down to watch an entire episode.

PARTNERS

Publication of Austin Woman would not be possible without the support of our monthly advertisers and sponsors, who believe in the impact we are making in the Austin community. The following businesses have stepped up their support of our efforts beyond traditional advertising and we are proud to recognize them as our partners. The team at Austin Woman is grateful for these businesses that have shown their commitment to the advancement of women in Austin and hopes you, as readers, recognize their efforts and support these businesses and all our regular advertisers.

CYNTHIA SHAFER Publisher

DIAMOND LEVEL PARTNERS

COMMUNITY PARTNERS LAW OFFICE OF JANET MCCULLAR

Well, consider me a fan. There’s something incredibly fascinating about watching one entrepreneur after another, some visibly shaking, others standing solid as a rock, approach a panel of investors (The badass Barbara Corcoran is my favorite.) to pitch their product or service in the hopes of wooing some serious financial support. It’s fun to hear about new ideas, everything from hydroponically grown grass pee pads for indoor dogs to one dad’s invention of a hands-free baby-bottle holder, and the stories behind how all these new products, often inventions born from the mother of necessity, came to be.

As the investors negotiate deals with the entrepreneurs, viewers get a glimpse at just how challenging it can be to pursue the path of starting your own venture. First, you have to have a patent or, as is often the case, many patents. Then you need to get funding, often pulled from one’s own savings account, just to build a prototype. Then you need to design a website, and with that, a marketing campaign. Let’s not forget the importance of conducting market research too.

Then you need to figure out your MSRP and strategize the profit margin you need to continue to grow the company. Let’s throw in some rebranding too, just for kicks. Then you need to somehow approach big-box stores and retailers and attend pitch competitions, like those taking place this month during South By Southwest, and—oh right!—build a team.

The path to owning a successful startup sounds intense.

Two years is the common barometer entrepreneurs use to define whether their startup will survive, one of the many nuggets of info I learned from Katie Fang, our June 2016 cover woman and founder of Austin-based education-focused tech startup SchooLinks. If your company is still up and running after that time, they say chances are you’re on the right path. This month’s cover woman, Leslie Stiba, co-founder and CEO of Austlen Baby Co., says it took her five years to finesse the final Austlen Entourage stroller you can find in retail stores today. Five years.

When was the last time you spent five years working on a project?

I spent five weeks once putting together an art collage made of magazine clippings. I spent five hours during the Christmas break attempting to rebuild my portfolio website, which then morphed into five minutes of me pondering whether I should start a blog. But five years? Yeah, I’m not your girl.

Maybe that’s why I find the entrepreneur mentality so fascinating. Regardless of whether they land a spot on Shark Tank, these precocious women and men are so convinced their product or service is going to fill a void, a gap in the marketplace, that they confidently dedicate year after year of their lives to see their ideas come to fruition.

One remark I commonly hear from entrepreneurs, often said in jest during conversation, is that if they only knew how hard the road to building a company was going to be, they might have thought twice about starting out on the journey in the first place. With that in mind, if there’s one thing I hope you take away from this issue, it’s this: That idea, that project, that dream you’ve been mulling over, don’t overthink it. Just do it.

After all, what’s the worst that could happen? Barbara Corcoran turns you down? That sounds like a success story to me.

Sincerely,

APRIL CUMMING Editor 14 | AUSTIN WOMAN | MARCH 2018

Join the conversation @AustinWoman #TheEntrepreneursIssue

Photo by Lisa Muñoz.

COMMUNITY

I AM A TEXAS MBA “Not a day goes by that I don’t utilize the knowledge, skills, or amazing network I gained and cultivated while earning my Texas MBA. This investment in myself continues to be the best investment I have ever made, and it has absolutely changed the trajectory of my career.”

ALISSA BAYER Founder and owner, milk + honey spa, salon, and products Expert massage receiver Organic product fiend Mother of three MBA 2004

TexasMBA.info

EXPAND YOUR NETWORK

Photo by Korey Howell.

Evening & Executive Programs

CONTRIBUTORS

This month, we asked our contributors: What’s the best piece of business advice you’ve ever received?

KEITH TRIGACI

COVER PHOTOGRAPHER, “HEAVEN ON WHEELS,” PAGE 52 Keith Trigaci is an Austin-based photographer who was lucky enough to recently move back to Texas from Los Angeles. When he isn’t doing commercial photography, he enjoys documenting life’s moments, including weddings and day-in-the-life family sessions.

“Start today. The only true way to learn is by doing.”

CRYSTAL ZUZEK

COVER WRITER, “HEAVEN ON WHEELS,” PAGE 52 Crystal Zuzek is an award-winning health, wellness and lifestyle freelance writer and editor with 17 years of experience in the journalism industry. A graduate of the University of Missouri School of Journalism, Crystal spends her free time chasing after her active 3-year-old son, Niko, going for walks with her husband, Patrick, and their dachshund mix, Saffron, and trying out new patterns in her sewing room.

“When I was starting my freelance business, I had a fear of failure that was causing me a lot of anxiety, so I confided in my mentor, who advised me to turn the volume down on negative thoughts when they started to get too loud in my head and to keep pursuing my goals. Her advice has helped me drown out those thoughts and find the confidence to go after what I want.”

LAURA MARTINEZ

COVER HAIR AND MAKEUP, “HEAVEN ON WHEELS,” PAGE 52 Laura Martinez was born in beautiful Austin, and has traveled from New York to LA for makeup work, but still calls Austin home. She is a freelance makeup artist who specializes in makeup for print, commercial and lifestyle photo shoots.

She’s recently worked with L’Oreal, Marie Claire and Entertainment Weekly, to name a few. Follow her for beauty tips on Instagram @bylauramartinez.

“The best piece of business advice I ever received was to believe in myself. I have been in business for seven years, and looking back on it all, I am so happy I made a giant leap into owning my own business and believing that I could do it.”

SUSAN JOHNSTON TAYLOR

WRITER, “BUNDLES OF JOY,” PAGE 29; “PITCH PERFECT,” PAGE 59

A recent transplant to Austin, Susan Johnston Taylor has been a freelance writer for more than a decade. Her business and lifestyle articles have appeared in The Austin American-Statesman, The Boston Globe, Entrepreneur magazine, U.S. News & World Report and on fastcompany.com, among other places. When she’s not interviewing entrepreneurs or researching food trends, she can be found singing with several musical-theater troupes in the area and relaxing with her rescue dog, Sebastian. “ ‘Consider the source.’ Whenever you’re getting feedback, advice or other business information, it’s smart to think about where it came from before you act on it. Is this from a trusted mentor or an industry expert or half-baked advice from the peanut gallery?

Knowing that makes a huge difference.”

Sponsored Content

TOP CONCERNS FOR WOMEN DURING DIVORCE Divorce attorney Janet McCullar answers your questions.

BY JANET MCCULLAR

During the 25 years I’ve been a divorce attorney, I’ve represented hundreds of women in divorce or custody cases. Below are some of the top concerns women have expressed to me through the years.

1. Will I lose custody of my kids?

Almost every woman I work with has heard of some story in which a mom lost custody of her children in a divorce, and they are scared it could happen to them. In my experience, moms don’t lose custody unless they are a threat to their child’s safety, such as if they have been arrested for driving drunk with the child in the car. Even in that scenario, there are precautionary measures that can be put in place, such as using a Breathalyzer. Some fathers, in an attempt to gain advantage in a property division, will threaten to go for custody. Don’t believe it. Consulting with a custody lawyer, like myself, often alleviates this concern. And if there is some merit to the threat, I can help my client minimize the risk.

5. My husband owns a business and says I won’t get any part of it. Is that true?

Most likely, that is true. The business will be given to the business owner, but it will also be valued by an expert. Don’t be fooled by tax returns or other statements of value provided to you by your husband. Valuation is much more complex than that, and often, the value is much higher than what most people would believe.

I love nothing more than helping women free themselves of these sort of worries in my initial consultation. Remember, consulting with a divorce lawyer doesn’t necessarily mean you will get a divorce, and it could bring more peace of mind if you do need to divorce.

2. My husband is a really good liar.

I tell my female clients if I put a black hash mark on the wall in my conference room each time I heard this statement, my walls would be solid black. Most often, the husband is a bully who is used to intimidating his wife. Bullying tactics don’t work. If I’m asking your husband a question in court, he may try to not answer it, but as a seasoned professional, I will ask until the question is answered.

3. I don’t know how much money we have.

Some couples have assigned roles in their marriage, with one being the breadwinner and the other being the homemaker. Who wouldn’t trust her husband to take good care of the finances and invest their money properly? But I don’t need to know at the time of the initial consultation how much money you have. That is part of the divorce process. I help my clients identify what property they own, find out what it is worth and put it all in a spreadsheet for property-division purposes.

4. My husband has offered me a lump sum of money and says I’ll get less if I fight him.

Should I accept?

My answer: absolutely not. I want all my clients to make a well-informed decision, and that usually means talking with a lawyer about whether the offer is a good one. As lawyers, we often find what the spouse is really owed is more than what has been offered. Don’t take the chance. Seek professional advice before you make a deal.

Janet McCullar is a nationally respected trial attorney known for her skill and success in the courtroom. She has represented clients in hundreds of complex divorce and custody cases. Although she represents clients during trying times, her cases are routinely resolved amicably to save the client the time, cost and pain involved in litigation. McCullar is board-certified in family law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. She was also selected as a fellow in the prestigious American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, an organization that consists of the nation’s top divorce attorneys.

Law Office of Janet McCullar, P.C. | 3200 Steck Ave Ste 300, Austin, TX 78757 | 512.342.9933 | jmccullarlaw.com

CONNECT WITH US! CAN’T GET ENOUGH OF THIS ISSUE? ➥ More good scents. As a mom to two active boys, Michelle Houp was

frustrated with the antiperspirant options she found on store shelves. Her sons were too old for baby products but too young to leave the house smelling like fraternity men. So, she decided to found Prep U Products, an all-natural line of body-care products for growing boys.

➥ More speaking up. In the wake of the #TimesUp and #MeToo movements, We.Moxie Founder Jennifer Oswald is keeping the conversation going, speaking out about dealing with harassment in the workplace and how empowered women can help empower other women.

➥ More heat in the kitchen. Chef Stacy Chen was only 17 years old when she

opened the doors to Veggie Heaven, her first restaurant, which has been in operation near the UT campus since 1998. Throughout the past 20 years, Chef Chen has become a fixture in Austin’s restaurant scene. We caught up with her in January on the heels of the opening of her second restaurant, Yoshi Ramen.

➥ More playing tourist. Meagan Fritts is making waves in the Austin tourism

industry with her Access ATX and Twisted Texas Tours. Step aboard the tour bus, feast on brunch or barbecue, and take a drive through town, making fun pit stops at unique Austin landmarks, live-music venues and local breweries.

WIN THIS!

DON’T

FRANKIE JEAN BASEBALL CAPS Austin-based lifestyle brand Frankie Jean (@frankiejean) recently opened its first brick-and-mortar location at downtown creative co-working space The Refinery. Founded by entrepreneur Ashley Green, the Frankie Jean line supports and encourages local makers and entrepreneurs to pursue their dreams. The business is named after Green’s mother, Frankie Jean, and Green, along with her team, is excited to continue carrying on her legacy.

To celebrate this exciting next step in the business’ growth, Green is giving away two of her best-selling baseball caps. One lucky winner will receive a crave-worthy “Tacos” baseball cap and a “Queso” baseball cap in navy—a $72 value!

To enter, keep an eye on our Instagram account, @AustinWoman, for the giveaway announcement in March. Word to the wise: We love to be spontaneous, so make sure you are following us. A winner will be chosen and notified by the end of the month.

FOLLOW US

@austinwoman

18 | AUSTIN WOMAN | MARCH 2018

LIKE US

facebook.com/austinwoman

MISS

Amplify Austin Day March 1, 6 p.m. through March 2, 6 p.m. amplifyatx.org Amazing Women Alliance Second Annual Birthday Bash March 6, 5:30 to 9 p.m.

Canyon View Event Center, 4800 Spicewood Springs Road templeton.ticketbud.com/amazingwomen-alliance-2nd-birthday-bash Ride. Drive. Give.

March 29, all day Circuit of the Americas, 9201 Circuit of the Americas Blvd. centerforchildprotection.org/ events/2018-ride-drive-give

FOLLOW US

@ austinwoman

Michelle Houp photo courtesy of Prep U Products. Jennifer Oswald photo courtesy of We.Moxie. Stacy Chen photo by Nicolai McCrary. Win This photo courtesy of Frankie Jean.

Check us out at atxwoman.com.

Beautiful, confident you.

Expert care by providers you know and trust at one of Austin's original medical spas.

tocmedicalspa.com | (512) 533-7317 | Austin Medical Plaza

PERMANENT MAKEUP | MICROBLADING

Studio Bella is a full service spa & boutique Permanent Eyeliner, Eyebrow, Lips and much more Areola and Scar Camouflage DaVinci Teeth Whitening Natural Spray Tan Deep Tissue Swedish Hot Stone Massage

by Whisper - 512.944.0754 Massages and Facials by Rebecca Swaine, LMT - 971.404.4448 Nails by Lisa Graham - 512.694.2501 lisag4nails@gmail.com

DAVINCI TEETH WHITENING

Stefani Stryker, Lash Artist + Esthetician lashesbystefani@gmail.com 737.333.1317

SPECIAL OFFER. BUY ONE SESSION, GET ONE SESSION FREE ON SAME DAY ONLY

Photography by MonikaKelley.com | 512.560.2020

www.StudioBellaSpa.com

STUDIO BELLA BOUTIQUE SPRING CLEARANCE! SCHEDULE A SERVICE TODAY!

6507 Jester Blvd Suite 108 Austin TX 78750

Sheila Paul, Massage Therapist 512.662.8062 - elitemyotherapymassage.com Hair by Lisa O’Brien - 512.350.1138 obrienfordhairatx.com

512.502.0002

S

AVVY WOMEN

COUNT US IN

WOMEN IN NUMBERS

Facts and figures on females from throughout the world.

BY SABA GHAFFARI, ILLUSTRATIONS BY JESSICA WETTERER

5th Female 40 Percent Nomination Lady Bird Writer and Director Greta Gerwig is the fifth woman to be nominated in the directing category in the history of the Academy Awards.

Only one woman has ever gone on to win the Oscar—Kathryn Bigelow for the 2008 motion picture The Hurt Locker. Gerwig is a double nominee this year, as Lady Bird was also nominated for Best Original Screenplay. Additionally, the film was nominated for Best Picture, Best Actress for Saoirse Ronan and Best Supporting Actress for Laurie Metcalf. The 90th annual Academy Awards take place March 4.

1st Gold Medal 1st Award

More women are starting new businesses than ever before.

According to the 2016 Kauffman Index of Startup Activity, women make up 40 percent of new entrepreneurs in the U.S. In recent years, it appears women have been outpacing men in the entrepreneurial realm, with the number of female entrepreneurs growing at twice the rate of the number for their male peers. A Global Entrepreneurship Monitor survey illustrated from the year 2015 through 2016 that men’s entrepreneurial participation grew 5 percent, while women’s entrepreneurial rates increased by 10 percent. This exceeding growth, the survey noted, is most likely attributed to the continually closing gender gap and greater access to female role models and mentors.

Chloe Kim, 17, is an American snowboarder who participated in the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, South Korea.

While this was her first time to participate in the Winter Olympics, she’s been breaking records from a very young age.

In 2016, she became the first American woman to win a gold medal in snowboarding at the Winter Youth Olympic Games.

Kim, who earned her first medal ever, a silver at the Winter X Games when she was just 13 years old, won three gold medals at the Winter X Games, all before she turned 16. She is also credited as the first and only woman to land back-to-back 1080 spins (A 1080 spin consists of making three 360-degree turns in the air.), which she did at the 2016 U.S. Snowboarding Grand Prix.

Oprah Winfrey was awarded the Cecil B. DeMille Award at the 2018 Golden Globes ceremony Jan. 7. The award, which is bestowed by the Hollywood Foreign Press Association for “incredible contributions to the entertainment industry,” has been presented a total of 65 times. Winfrey is the 15th female to receive the honor and the first woman of color to ever be presented with the award. This is certainly not the first time Winfrey has made groundbreaking history; in 1986, she also became the first black female host of a nationally syndicated daily talk show, with The Oprah Winfrey Show, and in 2003, became the first billionaire in the U.S. who was both African-American and a woman.

2 Times the Difference Women are making their mark in the startup scene. A survey published

by FundersClub revealed technology startups with at least one female founder hire twice as many female employees than startups with no female founders. These female-founded tech startups also hire more women overall than major tech companies. This finding demonstrates women in leadership roles are imperative for the advancement of other women.

While these figures are impressive, women-owned startups are still a minority in the male-dominated tech industry. In fact, a recent Crunchbase study showed just 17 percent of startups in 2017 had a female founder, a number that has remained constant for the last five years.

20 | AUSTIN WOMAN | MARCH 2018

Gift Certificates Available

ABBA WIGS

WE ARE RECOMMENDED FOR A REASON!

C

L

E

Call for a free estimate

A

N

I

N

G

LET US DO IT FOR YOU! WE OFFER STANDARD AND DETAILED CLEANING SERVICES FOR YOUR RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL SPACE.

Abba Wigs is an upscale wig salon with a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

NEW YEAR SPECIAL

Mention this ad for $25 off a detailed, 4 hr cleaning.

We are licensed Cosmetologists with over 20 years of experience, specially trained in wigs and hairpieces.

We specialize in chemotherapy, alopecia, trichotillomania, and clients with medically-induced hair loss.

AmesCleaningAustin.com 512.331.9694 •12308 Hwy. 620 N., Austin, TX 78750

®

Maegan: one of our many satisfied customers!

Highly recommended by oncologists, nurses, and social workers.

Private, individual rooms for our customers’ comfort.

29 Years Serving Austin BBB Accredited Business Locally Owned & Fully Insured

1105 KRAMER LANE, AUSTIN TX 78758 • ABBAWIGS.COM • 512.371.3701

Specializing in Quality of Life & Healthcare for Women Whatever phase in life you may be in, we’re here to help.

• IN-OFFICE PROCEDURES

• ABLATION/ESSURE

• PERMANENT STERILIZATION

• DA VINCI ROBOTIC SURGERY

• ACESSA PROCEDURE

• IDEAL PROTEIN DIET

Lisa M. Jukes MD Wellness Center 5656 Bee Caves Road, Suite B101, Austin, TX 78746

lisamjukesmd.com

• FIRST IN CENTRAL TEXAS TO OFFER MONALISA TOUCH® • BIOTE® BIO-IDENTICAL HORMORE PELLET THERAPY

To find out more about any of the offered services above please visit our website or call our office at: (512) 301-6767 • lisamjukesmd.com

S

AVVY WOMEN

BOTTOM LINE

THE POWER OF STORYTELLING

Kate Lowery, considered the builder of some of Austin’s biggest brands, shares the storytelling techniques she uses to help grow businesses throughout the world.

BY SOMMER BRUGAL From Kate Lowery’s upbringing in Louisiana to landing her first postcollege job in Mexico City to growing Whole Foods’ brand to national recognition for 15 years to her current position as the vice president of global public relations at HomeAway, one common thread weaves through Lowery’s resume: She has a knack for telling great stories.

According to Lowery, stories play a key role in building brands. At Whole Foods, she turned to the stories occurring near her. One day, she would talk about sustainable seafood practices and the next, she would craft narratives about artisanal cheeses hand-selected by cheesemongers. In her role at HomeAway, the Austin-based vacation-rental marketplace, Lowery says the same storytelling techniques apply.

Curious to know an insider’s secrets about how to successfully grow brands both big and small, Austin Woman asked Lowery to share her expertise.

KNOW YOURSELF INSIDE AND OUT

INTEGRATE PAID AND EARNED MEDIA

According to Lowery, successful campaigns incorporate both earned media, which is publicity gained through promotional efforts, and paid media, such as advertising. She says her broken-record phrase is “If we integrate, we win.”

Before launching something new, whether it’s a campaign, service or

Photo courtesy of HomeAway.

Whether you’re building your brand from nothing or expanding its current reach and name, Lowery says it’s imperative to know one’s self, or brand, inside and out.

“Know who you are, know who your brand is and really establish your purpose,” Lowery says. “Breathe [that purpose], feel comfortable in telling your story and don’t try to be all things to all people.”

According to Lowery, HomeAway had already established a respected brand reputation by the time she joined the team. Joining when she did, Lowery says she was able to focus on growing the brand’s name, as opposed to its category. In other words, she was able to focus on the brand’s audience.

“Ask yourself what is that differentiator and what are you selling? Be able to reach [your customers] and communicate with them appropriately,” Lowery says, noting that once you’ve identified and understand both your brand and your customers, all that’s left to do is be consistent in your messaging.

22 | AUSTIN WOMAN | MARCH 2018

AUSTIN JUNIOR VOLLEYBALL

BOYS’ & GIRLS’

VOLLEYBALL

documentary wedding and event photography

CLUB & ACADEMY

coreys-photos.com

product, Lowery recommends leading with earned media.

“Figure out what your news is [and] make a big announcement,” Lowery explains. “Then sustain [the campaign] with paid and owned channels.”

Doing so, she says, allows you to tell your story multiple times while remaining fresh.

Lowery’s favorite example of this practice involves growing HomeAway’s customer base in France. The company started by sponsoring the UEFA European Championship, the Super Bowl of soccer competitions in Europe, as a way to bring HomeAway into consumers’ awareness. Then the company went a step further: HomeAway built an apartment inside the Eiffel Tower for one month and organized a contest through which the winner and her family could cash in on a night’s stay in the apartment.

“The [contest] allowed us to be global. It was exciting,” Lowery says.

“We could lead with the earned media and sustain it with other activities [during the event itself ].”

When discussing social media, Lowery says her favorite thing is when earned stories translate into social coverage. She says brands can enjoy a great deal of success on social media by simply remaining authentic and true to the brand. A way of doing that, she says, is looking at the data.

Even a small data insight into what your brand offers, Lowery says, can be very helpful in generating interesting, eye-catching stories for the media, influencers and even analysts.

LOOK INSIDE

Throughout Austin Woman’s conversation with Lowery, she often referenced the high quality of work produced by the people, the team, at HomeAway. Therefore, it’s no surprise she considers them for potential storytelling opportunities.

“We look inside [the company] for data that we can flip for story-

telling, but if we continue to look inside, there are stories within our people,” Lowery says. “The most precious jewel of all [is] your people.”

Similarly, Lowery suggests partnering with third-party spokespeople who support your brand and mission, noting that win-win partnerships can help new customers familiarize themselves with your brand. A social-media influencer, for example, can stay in a vacation rental and talk about her experience firsthand. Lowery says it’s much more credible and interesting when companies rely on the power of third-party credibility to tell a story rooted in what they do.

Whichever method you choose, whether through social, third-party partners or your brand’s own communication channels, Lowery says your top priority should be to ensure your story is told both truthfully and authentically.

KATE LOWERY’S SOUTH BY SOUTHWEST PANEL PICKS With the South By Southwest conference taking place March 9 through 18, Austin Woman asked for a list of the top panels and presentations Kate Lowery plans to attend.

Third Coast: Can Austin Be The Next Big Tech City? schedule.sxsw.com/2018/events/PP77461 Three Innovation Superpowers Everyone Has But Isn’t Using schedule.sxsw.com/2018/events/PP97106 Women + The Power of Community, With Audrey Gelman schedule.sxsw.com/2018/events/PP97076 Satisfying Customers With On-demand Everything schedule.sxsw.com/2018/events/PP80725 Keynotes Melinda Gates and Ta-Nehisi Coates schedule.sxsw.com/2018/events/PP98929 and schedule.sxsw.com/2018/events/PP98597

S

AVVY WOMEN

GIVE BACK

SOWING SUPPORT

Seeds of Strength brings women together to help bolster local nonprofits—and each other.

BY MADISON MATOUS, PHOTO BY COURTNEY RUNN In 2009, a group of women discussed the idea of combining their charitable efforts to make a real and lasting impact in their community. What was born from the conversation was Seeds of Strength, an organization that brings women together to create a community that has a common goal: to support local nonprofits that serve the needs of the city of Georgetown, Texas.

Included in that initial group of women was Barbara Pearce. Pearce had recently retired from a nonprofit, where she had served as executive director for 10 years, and put that experience to use in helping start Seeds of Strength.

“It was really a way to encourage philanthropy and bring women together,” Pearce says of the founding mission behind the organization. “It was really about getting people involved to understand what was going on in Georgetown, [understanding] the needs of the community, in a sense.”

The women decided to create an organization based on a giving-circle structure in which members contribute to a common fund that goes to one nonprofit or multiple nonprofits of the group’s choosing. In its first year, Seeds of Strength founders had the ambitious goal to recruit 100 women to sign up. Each member, their thinking went, would contribute $1,000 to the common fund, meaning the group would raise $100,000.

The organization didn’t quite reach that goal, but

Left to right: Barbara Hallmark, Barbara Pearce and Karen Cole

24 | AUSTIN WOMAN | MARCH 2018

AUSTIN’S ORIGINAL WIG SALON. SERVING CUSTOMERS ALL OVER TEXAS FOR OVER 50 YEARS. PROFESSIONAL STYLING

CUSTOM FITTING PRIVATE ROOMS

PERSONAL APPOINTMENTS

HAIRPIECES

WE SPECIALIZE IN WIGS FOR CHEMO & RADIATION PATIENTS

Anders o

n Ln.

Burn

pa

c

N

et

NORTHWOOD PLAZA 2900 W. Anderson Ln., Ste H | 512.323.9220 O P E N : M-F: 10am-5:30pm | Sa: 10am-4pm

Mo

that didn’t slow the women down. To date, Seeds of Strength has given $973,000 to 27 nonprofits. This year, leaders expect to hit $1 million in donations.

Here’s how the giving-circle structure works: Members give $1,000 a year, either as individuals or as a group of as many as four people. Nonprofits apply for a grant through Seeds of Strength and go through a vetting process, after which the finalists make it to voting night, when they tell the members about their nonprofit’s mission and how they would use the money from the grant. Members then vote, individually or as a group, depending on how they made their donation, for the top three picks. Later that night, the top nonprofits are awarded funding.

In 2017, grant recipients included The Georgetown Project, Ride on Center for Kids, Literacy Council of Williamson County, Hope Alliance, Habitat for Humanity of Williamson County, Girlstart, Backpack Buddies and AGE of Central Texas.

“What I love about Seeds of Strength,” says Cindy Locke, chair of the organization, “is the collective impact that my money has with other members’ money, so we can give $25,000, and it’s real money.”

Pearce expands on Locke’s sentiments, citing how a $25,000 grant from Seeds of Strength enabled The NEST Empowerment Center—a branch of The Georgetown Project and an after-school program serving homeless and at-risk kids—to pay a counselor to come in and visit with the students three times a week.

“You know, I couldn’t give $25,000,” Pearce says, “but to be a part of a grant like that is really exciting.”

Along with the rewarding feelings tied to giving back, the women of the organization have also created a new sense of community, one consisting of others who share their passion for philanthropy. Both Pearce and Locke speak of the friendships they’ve made with women they likely would not have met had it not been for Seeds of Strength.

“I looked around the room and realized that I only knew three or four of those women before I got involved with Seeds of Strength,” Locke says. “And, I mean, these are really impressive women who are either in the midst of great careers or had great careers and want to continue to be engaged [in the community]. I’ve made some amazing friends. In addition to the good [the group is] doing in the community, what it has done for me personally is just help me learn about the lives of so many women who have this common philanthropic interest.”

Seeds of Strength hosts several events throughout the year that promote recruitment, fellowship and education. Bringing awareness to the needs of the Georgetown area is a large part of the group’s mission, and Pearce says at most every event, the group takes time to highlight a nonprofit that was given a grant in the past year, sharing how that organization used the funds to improve and better help the people it serves.

Pearce notes learning about the impact their contributions have made in the community is what keeps members coming back and spreading the word to their friends. This empowering realization is what has helped Seeds of Strength grow, Pearce says. Throughout the years, Seeds of Strength has grown from 53 members in its first year to 231 members in 2017.

Being a founding member, Pearce says she has loved watching the organization grow with each new year.

“It was fun [from the beginning],” she says, “but you start something and you never know exactly how it’s going to turn out…and to turn it over to other women who are equally as talented and strong leaders, you can sit back and enjoy the fruits of what you did.”

www.SERENITYWIGANDSALON . com

S

AVVY WOMEN

FROM THE DESK OF

HAYLEY SWINDELL

The founder of Austin’s newest creative co-working space, The Refinery, shares how she turned her dream into a small business.

BY NICHOLAS BARANCYK

Photo courtesy of Hayley Swindell.

“Find that good balance of ‘just do it’ but also ‘prepare yourself for it.’ ”

26 | AUSTIN WOMAN | MARCH 2018

When Hayley Swindell accepted her first job in print advertising sales, she didn’t know how much she would fall in love with the industry. But beyond that, she discovered she held a strong passion for the smallbusiness owners she talked to every day, a passion she would use to found her first business, The Hip Humanitarian, a fair-trade subscription-box service.

Swindell quickly discovered the work-from-home life was not her forte. Worse yet, at the time, Austin’s coworking spaces didn’t have the tools she needed. She was looking for a group of women who worked in and could help support her e-commerce business, as well as for perks like photo booths to help grow her online platform. The Hip Humanitarian began to fall into the red, and she closed up shop.

One job later, Swindell continued to detail this problem in her head. She wanted to design a space to help launch small businesses, a place with gourmet kitchens, a retail store and, of course, a photo booth. What resulted was her next venture and her biggest investment yet: The Refinery.

Now that she spends her days helping creatives turn their own dreams into reality, Swindell took a moment to reflect on the steps she took to become an entrepreneur in her own right and create the small-business community she had always desired.

e h t e c n e i Exper ! m u e s u s Bullock M Program

n Exhibitio 4!

1 opens 4/

ASK QUESTIONS “I think it’s realizing it’s OK to ask questions, even if you feel like they’re silly. You’ll look more silly if you act like you know the answer and you don’t. It’s empowering to ask questions and know the answers. Then you never have to ask again.”

SEEK MENTORS “Read the Austin Business Journal, see who’s moving and shaking things, get on Instagram, go attend events and actually talk to people. Get an idea of [the people] who are doing things that are awesome in the community and be friends with them.”

Films

ns Exhibitio

m 3/30, 7 p

: e Motion ic Comanchf Eric Tippeconn The Art o

Fridays: m il F e m Fem 4 Lane 197

ASK FOR HELP “A lot of people are scared to ask for help, and that’s what held me back with The Hip Humanitarian. I think I can do everything and no one can do it as good as I can in my business, like I have to do it and I have to be here to make sure it gets done. There’s a balance of that and asking for help while staying mentally OK.” READ UP AND PREPARE “Read books and educate yourself. Find that good balance of ‘just do it’ but also ‘prepare yourself for it.’

I think a lot of people are like, ‘Oh, I’m going to start a candle company!’ You have to understand: Is there a need for a candle company? Maybe you shouldn’t be doing that.”

LEVERAGE SOCIAL MEDIA “Make sure when you’re thinking about where you spend most of your energy, don’t just do what’s trendy; do what’s right for your product. You can do the same post [across social-media channels], but you have to do it differently for it to be effective on each channel. There’s all these tools that let you just blast it. Don’t blast it.”

6, 3/12–3/1 m p 10 am–2

ock t the Bull a k a e r B Spring Femme Film Fridays sponsored by

Top Image: “I’m Too Fancy for my Shawl #2,” Courtesy Eric Tippeconnic

BULLOCK

TEXAS

For showtimes and the full program schedule, visit:

STATE HISTORY

MUSEUM The S TO R Yof T E XAS.co m

The Bullock Texas State History Museum is owned and operated by the State of Texas through the State Preservation Board. Additional support of exhibitions and programs is provided by the Museum’s nonprofit partner, the Texas State History Museum Foundation.

S

AVVY WOMEN

PROFILES

LIKE MOTHER, LIKE DAUGHTER

Designer Ashley Green is bringing Austin artisans together and embodying her mother’s spirit through her marketplace, Frankie Jean.

“That was kind of like the first time I dipped my toes into clothing Inside Ashley Green’s new office is a shelf she built herself. It’s design,” Green says. not one of those put-it-together shelves sold from a ScandinaShe took those skills to Baylor University, a place that was special vian retailer, but an actual made-from-scratch shelf. She had to her mom and where Green earned a degree in fashion design with a never built a shelf before and didn’t exactly have all the right minor in business. While still in school, Green unknowingly stumbled tools, but she tried it anyway, just like her mom taught her. into her first design business “I definitely learned the menafter a friend asked her to sew a tality of ‘If I can put my mind to dress. By word-of-mouth, Green’s something, I can make it’ from handcrafted dresses grew in her,” Green says of her mother. popularity, prompting her to open Green is a clothing designer “It’s very much a supportive by trade, as well as the owner a boutique after graduation in of Frankie Jean, an online Buda, where she sold dresses and atmosphere more so than a marketplace that sells apparel, many other local artisan items. accessories, paper goods and “It was kind of like a real-life competitive one in Austin.” home-décor items. The name Etsy shop,” Green says of her first Frankie Jean comes from Green’s business. late mother, who she credits for Not long after opening the her eye for design and sense of store, Green began to dream creativity. In January, the shop bigger, so she decided to make celebrated the opening of its first the move to Austin, working two brick-and-mortar store at Auspart-time jobs while launching tin’s newest creative co-working her new business, Frankie Jean. space, The Refinery. “[Making the dresses] was “My mom was the epitome something that just happened. I of what Frankie Jean is,” Green wasn’t really passionate about it,” says. “She was always trying the Green says. “I found myself not latest thing in creative design really wanting to tell people what and trying to get all her friends it was that I made.” on board with her.”

While the concept of Frankie Frankie Jean’s mission is to Jean is similar to her first busisupport and shed light on the ness, this time around, Green work of design entrepreneurs in wants to make sure Frankie Jean Austin. The business sells both is seen as a lifestyle brand. Rather Green’s clothing designs and than taking on any artist with other items made by local artia craft, she wants to make sure sans, items such as handcrafted everything she sells has a similar leather goods from Weather and aesthetic.

Story, candles, ceramic mugs, “I really wanted to curate serving boards and linen napkins things in a way that when somefrom Feast and Dwell, and paper one walks into the shop, they like goods from Wknd Press. The it all,” Green says. “I reached out new space at The Refinery has to all the people I knew who had allowed Green to mix in items a craft and shared my vision with from new artists and new prodthem.” ucts that differ from what’s sold Although she’s picky about through her online marketplace. the items she curates at Frankie “It’s very much a supportJean, Green is always interested ive atmosphere more so than in collaborating with other artists a competitive one in Austin,” in order to create items that blend Green says of the artisan scene. with the Frankie Jean brand and “It sounds cheesy but it’s like the style. With the debut of her new do-unto-others idea. I just think space at The Refinery, she’s looking forward to expanding her reach it’s better when we do things together.” and presence in Austin and developing partnerships with new artists.

Green, who hails from Buda, Texas, first dabbled in sewing her “It’s a really great opportunity [being at The Refinery],” Green says. sophomore year of high school while taking a home-economics class.

“It’s an opportunity to grow the business, as well as learn from all Two years later, she made her own dress for senior prom. these other creative people.”

28 | AUSTIN WOMAN | MARCH 2018

Photo by Katie Jameson.

BY KAT BARCLAY

S

AVVY WOMEN

PROFILE

BUNDLES OF JOY

Annie Lin is harnessing her outside-the-box idea to build personalized gifts for new moms.

Photo courtesy of Amy Jayne Photography.

BY SUSAN JOHNSTON TAYLOR

Born in Houston and educated at the prestigious Parsons School of Design, where she studied design and management with a focus on graphic design, Annie Lin lived in New York City for eight years. For three of those years, she was the creative director of Aira, a women’s contemporary fashion line she ran with her sister. In 2013, at age 28, she moved to Austin to live closer to her sister, who was, at the time, pregnant with Lin’s niece, and to escape the frigid Northeast winters.

That same year, she decided to focus on designing for children.

“I took the skill set that I learned over the years and my background in graphics and illustration and learned how to make baby toys and things like that,” she says.

A friend in New York had founded BarkBox, the popular subscription service for dog treats and toys, so Lin decided to apply a similar subscription model to her startup, which targets people buying gifts for new moms, when she created A Little Bundle.

“They received four to five products of clothing items, toys and something for themselves,” Lin says of the items she originally offered new moms who subscribed to A Little Bundle.

But, as Lin discovered, every mom is so different.

“You can’t always please every mom,” she says.

In 2016, when Lin was pregnant with her first daughter, she pivoted the business strategy of A Little Bundle away from the subscriptionbox model, instead, giving customers the ability to build their own bundles based on the preferences of the recipient.

Lin says her most popular products include the A Little Bundle onesies and Tshirts, the Mama Love tees and the Maileg stuffed animals.

“I felt like it was so fun for me to curate the bundles, so how much fun would it be for you to curate [products] for your sister or your friend?” she says.

Lin says she sells more than 500 bundles a month, including wholesale bundles (partnerships with companies that provide gifts for their clients and colleagues) and direct-to-consumer bundles. She also still curates bundles of products for customers who aren’t sure what to

get a new mom.

Also in 2016, Lin launched a consulting business called Unicorn & Rainbows so she could spend more time at home with her daughter.

“The concept came from being able to consult with [consumer brands such as Ring and JJ Rabbit] on how to make their brand speak to the mom community on social media through branding and connecting with influencers,” she says of Unicorn & Rainbows.

Lin notes she grew A Little Bundle mainly through her Instagram and social-media following and interaction, so Unicorn & Rainbows acts as an outlet that allows her to share her social-media skills and strategy with other baby brands.

Although A Little Bundle’s popularity with young, design-conscious moms has indeed caught the eye of investors, Lin has turned down offers of outside investment five times.

“I’m pretty glad I did,” she says of the decision, “just because I’m able to take [the company] as my baby and…keep it with the voice that I want it to have.”

Lin recently gave birth to her second daughter and relaunched the website for A Little Bundle (alittlebundle.com). Balancing motherhood and two businesses comes with its own unique set of challenges, but Lin is certainly up for it.

“I think it’s really exciting that I get the opportunity to evolve my life into motherhood,” she says, “and still be able to evolve my creative passions.”

“You can’t always please every mom.”

ATXWOMAN.COM | 29

M

UST LIST

DISCOVER

SUMMER CAMPS FOR KIDS

Grab your planner and pocketbook, as spots at these four familyfavorite camps fill up quickly.

BY HEIDI GOLLUB For many parents, the pages of summer months looming on the calendar can feel like an endless sea of dates in desperate need of a plan. Kids are out of school for a long time in the summer, and camps are an ideal way to keep them active and happy, and to help those summer days fly by. Luckily, there are plenty of unique camp offerings in Austin. Here are a few favorites, shared with us by local families who love them.

CAMP HALF-BLOOD bookpeoplecamphalfblood.wordpress.com Literary camps hosted by BookPeople are serious business. At Camp Half-Blood, young fans of Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson series become demigods for a week, delving into the fantasy world of Percy Jackson and the Olympians. Kids practice ancient Greek battle strategy, hone their archery skills and craft protective talismans. A letter from Percy Jackson on the camp website warns incoming campers, “If you’re reading this, I’m really sorry. It means you’ve found out you are halfbloods, and now you’re in for a world of trouble.”

Nicole Basham, the digital marketing coordinator at Full Funnel Marketing, sends her 11-year-old son, Will, every summer.

“My son complains about having to go to camp but begs me to enroll him in Camp Half-Blood,” she says. “Although the commute to and from camp each day is considerable (Thank goodness for carpooling!), the camp combines his love of books and adventure with active time outside.”

Will Basham adds that he’s a fan of interacting with his favorite Greek mythology characters and “getting to fight your friends with foam weapons.”

atxkidsclub.org Named Best Camp by ActivityHero three years in a row, ATX Kids Club takes small groups on daily excursions to get kids better acquainted with the Austin area. Campers hop on and off Capital Metro buses and delight in being urban explorers as they learn to appreciate local culture. In any given week, you might find these intrepid young Austinites hiking the Greenbelt, reading in the LBJ Presidential Library, learning about Texas history at the Capitol or frolicking in the family garden at Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.

Erica Gordon, CEO of Austin Sunshine Camps, says her girls will definitely return to ATX Kids Club after their experience last summer.

“My 5- and 9-year-olds absolutely loved ATX Kids Club,” Gordon says. “They would come home at the end of each day and brag about their adventures. The amount they were able to teach me about each place they had visited blew me away.”

Gordon was so impressed with ATX Kids Club, she joined the nonprofit’s board of directors.

Camp details: • Drop-off locations include Mueller Park, Pease Park, Garrison Park and Vic Mathias Shores.

• Ages: 4 to 15 • Staff-to-camper ratio: 1 to 6 • Cost: $300 per week if registering before March 14; $325 per week if registering after March 14

ATX Photo Kids courtesy Club photo of C2 courtesy Photography. of ATX Kids Club.

Camp details • Location: McKinney Falls State Park, 5808 McKinney Falls Parkway • Time: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• Ages: 9 to 17 • Cost: $550 per week

ATX KIDS CLUB

30 | AUSTIN WOMAN | MARCH 2018

ZACH THEATRE SUMMER CAMPS zachtheatre.org/education/performing-arts-school Zach Theatre offers a wide range of camps at two locations. All ages, from preschoolers to incoming high-school seniors, can try their hands at musical theater, improvisation, acting and dance.

Katie Cook, director of digital marketing for Visit Austin, took classes at Zach when she was in school and remembers them fondly.

“I love that my kids can take classes there too,” Cook says.

Her son, Ethan, says he likes the camp because “the teachers are really experienced and fun.”

“I took a comedy class last summer,” Ethan Cook adds, “and on the final day, I got to perform stand-up comedy.”

Zach Theatre Summer Camps photo courtesy of Zach Theatre. Earth Native Wilderness School photo courtesy of Earth Native Wilderness School.

Camp details: • Locations: Zach Theatre main campus, 1510 Toomey Road; Zach Theatre north campus, 12129 RR 620 • Half-day and full-day camps are available.

• Ages: Preschoolers, or age 3 and a half, through 12th graders • Cost: Starts at $175 per week

BE A CAMP-PLANNING PRO When mapping out your summer plans, be sure to ask for input from the parents of your children’s friends. Carpooling to the same camps can be a lifesaver, and kids often feel less apprehensive about a new camp when they know a friend will be there.

Haley Cihock, assistant news director at KXAN-TV, recommends rallying friends for a summer-camp strategy session.

“We brunch or happy hour and map out a game plan for the summer,” Cihock says. “We all bring a couple of ideas and sketch it out on a big calendar.

For me, it’s a big win because I can make sure my only child gets a buddy at camp. For other parents with several children, it helps them juggle rides and pickups. It takes a village.”

EARTH NATIVE WILDERNESS SCHOOL SUMMER CAMPS earthnativeschool.com/summer-camps From nature-themed day camps at McKinney Falls State Park to overnight camps focused on building wilderness skills, Earth Native Wilderness School offers a variety of summer programming for young outdoor enthusiasts.

Dripping Springs, Texas, resident Melissa Drewitz sends her 11- and 13-year-old boys to Earth Native Wilderness School because, as she says, “it is seriously the best.” Drewitz loves the idea of letting her kids be kids in the great outdoors.

“Kids are outside all day,” she says, “exploring, making things with sticks and dirt. They also get to wade and swim in the creeks and rivers. It is perfect. Kids come home tired, super dirty and, most of all, completely happy.”

Camp details: • Locations include McKinney Falls State Park and Bastrop.

• Day-camp and overnight options are available.

• Ages: 3 and a half years old to 16 • Cost: Starts at $265 per week

ATXWOMAN.COM | 31

M

UST LIST

ROUNDUP

SPRING CLEAN

Feast & Dwell Founder Jessica Scott keeps her kitchen space fresh with these five home goods.

BY ELIZABETH UCLES

Jessica Scott does it all. A devoted mom and wife who runs her own photography business, the founder of Feast & Dwell still somehow manages to find time to curate her online-based shop of handcrafted home goods.

Scott designed Feast & Dwell, a virtual home-goods hub, to encourage and inspire the welcoming of others into one’s home

for both the biggest and smallest of get-togethers. She works tirelessly to empower hosts through the act of gathering others in their own homes.

To celebrate her company’s second anniversary this month, Austin Woman asked Scott to share her five kitchen essentials, each handpicked by the supermom herself and sold online at feastanddwell.com, to help ring in spring.

LINEN WINDOWPANE DINNER NAPKINS

“Handmade in Boston, these are such a wonderful addition to dinner every day or for something more fancy,” Scott says. “The windowpane pattern is one of my favorites and is the perfect pop of fun for the spring season.”

6-OUNCE CERAMIC MUG

“These guys are handmade in LA by my friend Rouanne Garcia and are one of my favorite things in the shop,” Scott says. “They are perfect for a cup of your favorite spring tea or a cup of coffee with a friend, not to mention they are great to display in your kitchen.”

LONG MAPLE SERVING BOARD

LINEN TEA TOWEL

SWEET PEONY CANDLE

“These are handmade by me with fabric sourced from a local Austin shop,” Scott says. “They are a great neutral color to match all your kitchen décor and help with all those spills, messes and dishes.”

“This candle is hand-poured by yours truly and has notes of sweet pea, peony and clover,” Scott says. “It is the perfect mix of floral and fresh, and you will find it burning on my kitchen windowsill all through spring.”

32 | AUSTIN WOMAN | MARCH 2018

Photos courtesy of Jessica Scott Photography.

Photo

by Alison Narro.

“This beauty was handmade in Austin by my dad. He designed and handcrafted it and it’s perfect for cheeseboards, cookies or for a fun spring centerpiece,” Scott says. “The lighter color of the wood is a great pop for spring. I love to serve cookies on it when people come over for coffee.”

ATX

WOMEN to WATCH Our pages are full of stories of Austin’s most engaging, empowering and successful women, and this section is specially designed to provide you access to even more incredible role models and success stories.

Be part of this amazing tribe and share your story with thousands of women.

Contact us at sales@awmediainc.com or call 512.328.2421 for more information.

BY LAUREN JONES | PHOTOS BY COURTNEY RUNN

SPECIAL PROMOTION | ATXWOMAN.COM |

33

ATX

WOMAN to WATCH

S A S C H A B I E S I A N D YA U S S B E R E N J I CO-FOUNDERS OF SKULL & CAKEBONES

W

hen Sascha Biesi and Yauss Berenji started Skull & Cakebones five years ago, they based it on their food standards: If they wouldn’t feed it to their child, they wouldn’t feed it to yours. From utilizing high-quality ingredients, they were led to good people, out of which was born the most important part of what they do, community partnerships. They partner with other local foodies, taking the best of what their favorite people do and making those ingredients stars of their recipes, even co-branding on the front of their packaging. They do it because they love their people, and because their philosophy is that when we get together as a food community, not only do we make products that taste better, but we can also help lift each other up to reach our goals. In 2017, they were the grand-prize winners of the H-E-B Quest for Texas Best contest, and their layered desserts are now available at H-E-B. skullandcakebones.com

34 SPECIAL WOMAN PROMOTION | ATXWOMAN.COM 34 | AUSTIN | MARCH 2018

ATX

WOMAN to WATCH

G LO R I A N A KO LL , K E ES H A WA I T S A N D PHIDERIKA FOUST OWNERS OF KITCHUN GR AINFREE FOOD CO.

K

itchun Grainfree Food Co. is the brainchild of friends and pastry chefs Gloriana Koll and Keesha Waits. The two met in culinary school more than a decade ago and founded Kitchun in 2015. Within a year, Kitchun was the first-place winner in the H-E-B Quest for Texas Best contest, with its signature line, No-Grain-Ola, now available at H-E-B. The stunning win was a key milestone and turning point for the startup brand. Koll and Waits met Phiderika Foust, a consumer-packaged-goods and venture-capital veteran and former Food Network executive, who shared their vision and soon became their business partner. With plans for national expansion and a growing line of innovative new products, it’s clear success is only beginning for the trio. In creating delicious products that are actually better for you, Kitchun’s goal is to become its customers’ go-to snack brand. thekitchun.com

SPECIAL PROMOTION | ATXWOMAN.COM ATXWOMAN.COM | | 35 35

ATX

WOMAN to WATCH

ALANA CHANDLER AND ALEXANDRA WORTHINGTON CO-OWNERS OF CULINARY COWGIRLS QUESO AND THE CULINARY ROOM

R

ecognized in the industry as top innovators and food experts, food manufacturer Alexandra Worthington and commercial chef Alana Chandler are foodie friends that have teamed up for more than a decade to create award-winning products. In 2016, their prizewinning, all-natural line of real-dairy queso with fresh, roasted chilies nabbed second place in H-E-B’s annual Quest for Texas Best contest, and is currently available at H-E-B. This Austin gourmet culinary team is now expanding their reach to Lockhart, Texas, by opening The Culinary Room to share their love of the finest foods in a retail market, featuring products they make fresh daily, plus small-batch, hard-to-find items they handpick from throughout the world and unique gifts for any foodie. The upper floor of the space, overlooking the courthouse, will also showcase chef-taught culinary classes open to the public. culinarycowgirls.com

36 | SPECIAL PROMOTION

|

ATXWOMAN.COM

ATX

WOMAN to WATCH

JULIE ALBERTSON

CHEF AND OWNER OF TE X AS PIE COMPANY

T

he sweet aroma of fresh-baked goodness welcomes customers at Texas Pie Company, just a few miles south of Austin. Chef and Owner Julie Albertson started her business in 1987 with a rolling pin and a plan to bake for restaurants in Austin and the Hill Country. If you’ve eaten pie in Central Texas in the last 30 years, there’s a good chance you’ve been served one of her pies. In 2000, Albertson opened her Kyle, Texas, location and it became a destination for pie pilgrims from throughout the world, as well as a favorite lunch spot for locals. In 2016, her incredible Original Pie Dough Puck—frozen, raw pie dough ready to be rolled out for any variety of savory or sweet treats—won her the $25,000 grand prize in H-E-B’s Quest for Texas Best contest. It’s now available in H-E-B stores statewide. texaspiecompany.com

SPECIAL PROMOTION | ATXWOMAN.COM ATXWOMAN.COM | | 37 37

ATX

WOMAN to WATCH

I R I S D AV I S - Q U I C K A N D D O L O R E S D AV I S CG&S DESIGN-BUILD

C

G&S Design-Build was founded in 1957 by Clarence and Stella Guerrero as a remodeling business based in Austin. They taught the business and craft of remodeling to their children, who ultimately took the reins of the company in the 1990s. Architectural services inspired by the nascent design-build movement were added at this time. Today, CG&S retains a full-fledged architecture staff, estimating team and construction workforce. CG&S provides full residential design-build services to the Austin metro area. Dolores Davis is the second-youngest child of the Guerreros’ eight children. She started working with CG&S as an office manager, initiated marketing activities and eventually oversaw all of CG&S’ production. Now she is the general manager of the entire operation, with an eye toward CG&S’ future. Iris Davis-Quick, Dolores Davis’ daughter, joined the firm as a receptionist in 2011. She quickly expanded her scope to include marketing, and now manages the department. She represents the third generation in the family business. cgsdb.com

38 | SPECIAL PROMOTION

|

ATXWOMAN.COM

ATX

WOMAN to WATCH

TERESA ROBERTSON

OWNER OF AT X VOLUME L ASH AND BROW

T

eresa Robertson is a passionate small-business owner and loves creating a space for her clients to feel confident and cared for. Robertson opened her first salon in May 2011, with a goal of delivering quality services with the best products on the market in a space that stands out. Her salon has private service rooms with beds topped with memory foam, so “lash naps” happen quite often. Additionally, she is equally dedicated to continually growing her team of talented, customer-focused staff.

Robertson has felt her calling has always been in the beauty business, and she has quite the resume. In 2010, she trained in permanent makeup and classic lash extensions, and later went on to become certified in volume lashes and advanced volume lashes. She attended the League of Lash Masters in Prague last year. Robertson is happily married with four grown children, two granddaughters and a grandson. atxvolumelashandbrow.com

SPECIAL PROMOTION | ATXWOMAN.COM ATXWOMAN.COM | | 39 39

ATX

WOMAN to WATCH

J A N E T S T. PA U L

OWNER OF JANE T ST. PAUL STUDIO FOR HAIR AND BE AUT Y anet St. Paul, owner of the award-winning Janet St. Paul Studio for Hair and Beauty, says her success comes from providing impeccable service and exceeding client expectations. Soon after finishing school in New Orleans, St. Paul left home to begin her now 25-year career alongside the best in the industry, working in New York’s most respected salons, including Frederic Fekkai and the Butterfly Studio. St. Paul opened her salon in Austin in 2011, and she recently expanded the salon to a new downtown address, adding beauty services. In recognition of her quality of work and commitment to education, Phyto Paris selected Janet St. Paul Studio as its U.S. flagship salon to serve as a professional-education destination for the brand. As an entrepreneur, St. Paul feels her experiences have been her best teacher, and every day, she focuses on creating and being the best she can be to empower those around her. janetstpaul.com

40 |  SPECIAL PROMOTION

|

ATXWOMAN.COM

Photos courtesy of Janet St. Paul.

J

ATX

WOMAN to WATCH

DEBORAH WHITBY OWNER OF AUSTIN PLUMBERY

A

s the creator and owner of Austin Plumbery, Deborah Whitby is paving the way in the residential and commercial plumbing-services industry. In a traditionally maledominated space, she is redefining what it means to be a plumber for today’s homeowners and businesses. Born and raised in Austin, she is an accomplished teacher, entrepreneur and mom, and has built her family-first, Austin-first and woman-owned approach on her family’s commitment to serve. In addition to owning her own business, she is a member of the National Association of Women in Construction, holds a Women-owned Business Enterprise certification from the City of Austin and has her very own plumber’s apprentice license. As part of the rich community of Austin-based business owners, she spends time speaking and mentoring up-and-coming generations. austinplumbery.com

SPECIAL PROMOTION | ATXWOMAN.COM ATXWOMAN.COM | | 41 41

S

TYLE

TRENDS

JEAN GENIE

There are no rules when it comes to denim on denim this season.

PHOTOS BY RUDY AROCHA STYLED BY NIKI JONES MODELED BY SHANNON DYER All items available at Neiman Marcus, 3400 Palm Way, 512.719.1200, neimanmarcus.com.

This page: Carolina Ritzler cap-sleeve, zip-front, straight-leg denim jumpsuit, $720; Dior Stellaire 2 round cut-out sunglasses, $490; Jimmy Choo Miami coarse glitter sneakers, $595.

Opposite page: Alice + Olivia Amanda shirtdress with belt, $375; Chanel sunglasses, $390.

42 | AUSTIN WOMAN | MARCH 2018

ATXWOMAN.COM |  43

S

TYLE

TRENDS

Tibi boat-neck, slim-fit chambray top, $325; Paige Nivelle denim tulip skirt, $169.

44 | AUSTIN WOMAN | MARCH 2018

Rag & Bone reverse crew-neck, short-sleeve bleached jersey T-shirt, $115; Alice + Olivia Molina asymmetric ruffled chambray maxi skirt, $285; Super by Retrosuperfuture Lucia Onice semi-rimless sunglasses, $220; Jimmy Choo Miami coarse glitter sneakers, $595.

ATXWOMAN.COM |  45

S

TYLE

TRENDS

Rag & Bone bleach-out classic long-sleeve, button-down denim shirt, $195; Joie Pike chambray cotton shorts, $158; Jimmy Choo Perla suede wedge sandals, $550; Chanel sunglasses, $520.

46 | AUSTIN WOMAN | MARCH 2018

Dr. Elisabeth Potter

Feel more like your younger, vital, confident self.

Every woman is unique and so are her gynecological health needs. Vaginal health changes with age, childbirth, menopause and other events such as a hysterectomy, chemotherapy, and breast-feeding. diVa is a breakthrough laser procedure designed to address your feminine concerns and most intimate challenges. ÂŽ

Quick 3-5 minute, in-office procedure

Comfortable No anesthesia necessary

Minimal to No Downtime Return to activities same day

6818 AUSTIN CENTER BLVD, AUSTIN, TX | DRPOTTER.COM

Dr. Elisabeth Potter, a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon in Austin, specializing in breast reconstruction and cosmetic surgery, also offers aesthetic treatments and vaginal health procedures. Trained at MD Anderson and UT Southwestern, she combines her reconstructive and cosmetic expertise to offer her patients a balanced and beautiful cosmetic result.

S

TYLE

BEAUTY

BULLETPROOF BROWS

Check out these tips for achieving the perfect shape.

WRITTEN AND STYLED BY MCKENZY WINDHAM, PHOTOS BY MAGGIE RESTER, MODELED BY BRYNNE CARTER THE STYLIST: MCKENZY WINDHAM

THE APPOINTMENT:

WHY TWEEZING?:

“I am a makeup artist that specializes in eyebrow shaping utilizing a handtweezing technique. While most people use waxing, I have developed my own unique style of shaping that allows for precision while maintaining the integrity of the skin. The result: You leave with full, elongated brows customized to your facial structure.”

An appointment with Windham consists of: • a consultation • the shaping • a discussion about the best methods to enhance brows with makeup • what maintenance looks like moving forward

“I use hand-tweezing and trimming to achieve a full and elongated shape that beautifully complements an individual’s face,” she says. “It’s the only hair-removal method that allows for precision while maintaining the integrity of the skin.

[There’s] no repetitive pulling or tearing like waxing and threading typically do. Other methods are too hard to control and tear down the elasticity in the already delicate skin around the eye area.

With hand-tweezing, I can pick and choose each hair to perfect the brow line.”

PRO TIP: Were you not graced with thick eyebrows? Try using a growth serum or supplements to accelerate the growth process.

Eyebrow tinting may also be a helpful antidote to weak brows.

BEFORE

“With the consultation,” she says, “each client is educated on the uniqueness of their brows and what they should look like, according to their facial structure. No two people have matching brows and nobody’s own two brows are even identical. We all have asymmetrical faces, so the goal is to restore the brows to their natural asymmetry rather than fighting them to change or match perfectly.”

DO YOURSELF A FAVOR Hide your tweezers, grow out your brows for a few weeks and consult an expert about the framework to your face.

AFTER

For more information or to book an appointment with McKenzy Windham at Arch Over Iris, visit styleseat.com/mckenzywindham.

48 | AUSTIN WOMAN | MARCH 2018

HOTEL ELLA

YOU DIDN’T WAKE UP TODAY Located near the heart of downtown Austin and walking distance to the University of Texas campus, Hotel Ella is a stylish boutique hotel housed in the historic Goodall Wooten House, one of Austin’s original landmark estates.

TO BE MEDIOCRE Step 1

POUR YOUR

COFFEE

Constructed in 1900, the Greek revival-style mansion underwent an extensive renovation in 2013, and now offers the perfect balance between modernity and a rich history rooted in the fabric of the neighborhood and the university. With 47 guest rooms, a cabanalined pool and a wrap-around veranda overlooking the front lawn, Hotel Ella features beautifully designed outdoor and indoor spaces perfectly suited for your vacation, wedding, corporate event and more.

Step 2

Step 3

MASCARA

“LISTEN”

1900 Rio Grande St., 512.495.1800, hotelella.com

GRAB YOUR

HIT

Rich Content. Audible. Only 4 Minutes. Free.

ONTHEDOTWOMAN.COM

ATXWOMAN.COM | 49

H

OME

ENTERTAINING

ROUND TOP REDUX

Follow this recipe for an unforgettable girls’ weekend road trip.

WRITTEN AND STYLED BY RHODA BRIMBERRY AND ANNA CRELIA, FOUNDERS OF LOOT RENTALS, PHOTOS BY RUI NAKATA

It’s no wonder why the town of Round Top, Texas, has such magic about it. After all, the population hovers at about 90 of some of the most down-to-earth folks. Twice a year, we load up the car and head down the road an hour or two to get away from the city with friends while ogling fine antiques.

Besides the amazing residents who call this place home, what makes Round Top so special is the antique market stretching all along Highway 237 that pops up in the spring and fall. Mix in sprawling views, mouth-watering food and the welcoming lodging, and you’ve got the recipe for a fun road trip. Many times, we have friends ask to join us

on our antique-buying trips, so we decided to schedule a girls’ weekend in Round Top. The antiques fair is a wonderful time to visit for the most prime picking, but essentially, any time of year is a good time to visit this magical place.

This year’s spring fair takes place March 21 through April 8. Going earlier guarantees the best antique selections, but going on the last days of the festival will help you strike the best deals. At any rate, start booking your lodging soon. In a town this small, space fills up quickly.

BOOKING YOUR STAY

son and her husband, Wayne Rentfro. Entering the property, guests are instantly at ease, fully aware they are no longer in the city, and encouraged to take a load off and enjoy the countryside.

The hosts take care of every need. They are so welcoming and make guests feel comfortable whether they’re hanging out in the shared space of the main house or relaxing up in a private room. In the morning, a lovely homemade breakfast wafts from the kitchen, beckoning visitors to arise for a great day of discovering new treasures. Be sure to sample Rentfro’s homemade bread, known throughout Round Top by even the most modest as “better than sex.”

Once you’ve filled up, it is time to hit the fields.

Simplified: You always have the option to stay at a chain hotel in the area. Brenham and La Grange, Texas, each less than a 30-minute drive from Round Top, are the closest towns.

Next level: For a more authentic Round Top experience, we highly recommend booking one of the bed-and-breakfasts or inns in or near Round Top. For our most recent girls’ trip, we revisited a favorite of ours, Elisa’s Sunday Haus. Named after innkeeper Elisa Henderson, the dogtrot-style bed-and-breakfast welcomes visitors with a dose of German heritage and warm reclaimed woods, all dear to Hender-

50 | AUSTIN WOMAN | MARCH 2018

SHOPPING THE FESTIVAL With more than 20 miles of fields to scour between La Grange and Carmine, Texas, you can guarantee your day will be jam-packed with shopping. We recommend staying at least two nights and three days in town so you can make the most of the festival.

Simplified: Your best bet is to hop in the car and roll up and down the highway, stopping at each and every field you can. Having a shopping basket helps when hunting for smaller items. Most vendors allow you to hold your items at their booth, but pay very close attention to where these booths are located, as there are so many vendors in Round Top and beyond that it’s all too easy to forget where to find them again.

Next level: For those new to the area and a little intimidated by the size of the festival, consider joining a guided tour. A favorite of ours is hosted

by Catelyn Silapachai, owner of Austin-based The Distillery Market.

Silapachai provides a detailed schedule and guide through the festival for a one-day trip. Her pre-tour survey will help her learn what you’re looking for so she can take you straight to those areas of the festival. If you’re staying with your girlfriends for the weekend, we suggest using her guided expertise on the first day in Round Top, and spending the next couple days pacing yourselves and revisiting some of the areas you may have missed.

DINING Simplified: The dining experience is just one of the beauties of staying in Round Top. For lunch, we never miss the rosemary chicken salad provided exclusively at The Texas Rose Cafe, and look forward to fine dining at The Garden Company after a long day of shopping. Of course, a trip to Round Top is not complete without a stop at Royer’s Round Top Café for the world-famous pie.

Next level: Often after a long day, the last thing you want to do is go out to eat. All you want to do is kick back and relax, and a great way to do that is to coordinate a catered dinner at your lodge, where you can decorate with items you scored throughout the day. We hosted an intimate dinner styled with our treasures and foraged clippings from the property. We sat for hours amid the candlelight, enjoying the company of our hosts and other guests of Elisa’s Sunday Haus. Royer’s Round Top Café offers delicious catering, which is a treat. Cleanup is a breeze and allows you to save your energy for the next day’s adventure, when you can do it all again.

ANNA CRELIA AND RHODA BRIMBERRY’S ROUND TOP TRIED-AND-TRUE SPOTS

Top photo by Taylor Wilcox.

Lodging o Elisa’s Sunday Haus, roundtopbnb.com o Round Top Inn, roundtopinn.com o The Vintage Round Top, thevintageroundtop.com Shopping o Bill Moore Antiques, open all year, 1350 N. Hwy. 237 o The Porch, open during spring and fall shows, 306 N. Washington St. o Ex-Cess, open during spring and fall shows, 145 Rohde Road o Market Hill, open during spring, fall and winter shows, 1542 Hwy. 237 Dining o Royer’s Round Top Café, open all year, 105 Main St. o The Texas Rose Cafe, open during spring and fall shows, 2075 Hwy. 237 o The Garden Company, open all year, 104 W. Wantke St.

ATXWOMAN.COM | 51

52 | AUSTIN WOMAN | MARCH 2018

Heaven on

Wheels

After facing her own personal daily struggle to cart around her twin daughters, their gear and a bag or two of groceries—and breaking many a stroller’s storage baskets in the process—Leslie Stiba decided to create the jack (or maybe we should say jill) of all trades, winning over the stroller market one mom at a time with her ingenious, multifunctioning invention, the Austlen Entourage.

BY CRYSTAL ZUZEK | PHOTOS BY KEITH TRIGACI HAIR AND MAKEUP BY LAURA MARTINEZ SHOT ON LOCATION AT SAWYER AND CO., 4827 E. CESAR CHAVEZ ST., 512.531.9033, SAWYERAND.CO

Leslie Stiba, CEO and co-founder of Austlen Baby Co., says she’ll never forget the first time she saw one of her Entourage baby strollers “in the wild.” It was a gorgeous afternoon in fall 2017, and she’d just finished having lunch with friends in downtown Austin.

“My friends and I were talking in the parking lot, and we saw a woman walk by pushing the stroller I created,” Stiba says. “We were so excited that we ran up to her, and she started showing me all the things the stroller can do.

That was a super-satisfying moment for me.”

The Arizona native’s path to entrepreneurship began 11 years ago, after she became a mother to twin daughters, Eve and Bree. Stiba, a former Dell global product manager, found herself increasingly disenchanted with the stroller options available to parents who needed to transport more than one child and a substantial amount of gear simultaneously.

“I struggled with every stroller I had when the girls were babies,” she says. “I broke all the storage baskets and canopies trying to carry all my stuff. The stroller baskets could hold only 10 to 25 pounds of gear. That’s not realistic for what

most parents need.”

She wanted a high-quality stroller that would accommodate her family’s active lifestyle and assist with everyday tasks, such as carrying a load of groceries, allowing easy access to baby items and transporting bulky gear on family outings and vacations. No such product existed in 2007.

So, Stiba conceived her own stroller design, and the concept for the Entourage was born.

The innately curious and tenacious working mother received the patent for the Entourage in 2011, founded Austlen Baby Co. in 2012 and launched the Entourage stroller and started selling it in stores in late 2016.

“The road I chose is a lot harder, but I’m glad I did it,” she says.

Capitalizing on her strong problem-solving skills, resourcefulness and deep desire to help people, Stiba ultimately created a luxury-grade stroller—aptly named the Entourage—that can hold as much as 150 pounds of weight, children and gear combined. The Entourage can comfortably and safely seat two little ones and glide with ease at the grocery store or on a sandy beach.

ATXWOMAN.COM | 53

Back to Work Nothing could have prepared Stiba for the shift in direction her life and career would take when she went into labor at just 29 weeks. Her girls were in the neonatal intensive care unit for two months. Stiba quit her job to take care of her newborn babies and embraced her new role as a stay-at-home mom.

When her daughters turned 4, she contemplated re-entering the traditional workforce or pursuing her entrepreneurial dream.

“I’d always envisioned that I would be a stay-at-home mom once I had my girls, but as they got older, the more I missed working,” Stiba says. “My husband, Christian, almost knows me better than I know myself. He was amazed that I made it four years and fully supported my choice to go back to work and to pursue my entrepreneurial passion.”

The return to work wasn’t without its obstacles, but Stiba and her husband chipped in equally to keep their family on track. She embraced her new flexible schedule, getting work done when she could.

“Once you become a parent, you have to fit in work where you can,” Stiba says. “You become a better professional because you can’t procrastinate. You’re always a step ahead because you never know when a kid is going to get sick or something is going to happen to mess up your plans.”

“”

YOU’RE ALWAYS A STEP AHEAD BECAUSE YOU NEVER KNOW WHEN A KID IS GOING TO GET SICK OR SOMETHING IS GOING TO HAPPEN TO MESS UP YOUR PLANS. —LESLIE STIBA

Help Along the Way

Winning Over Customers

The journey to bring the Entourage to market was an arduous one, replete with challenges along the way. But Stiba says a little luck and a lot of help allowed her to accomplish her goal.

Stiba’s background in product management and understanding of intellectual property served her well. The first patent was issued for the Entourage three and a half years after she applied. But she recognized she would need expert guidance about raising funding and a knowledgeable technology partner if she planned to enter the insanely competitive and highly regulated baby-gear retail industry.

In search of help, Stiba connected with the co-founder and chair of Avinde women’s business accelerator, Terry Chase Hazell, who, at the time, was also the director of the Texas Emerging Technology Fund. Stiba enrolled in the accelerator and for the next six months, walked through the necessary steps to start a company and put together a financial model for Austlen Baby Co. Encouraged by some positive feedback about her idea from an investor with the Central Texas Angel Network, Stiba turned her attention to finding a technology partner.

She discovered her co-founder, Austlen Baby Co. Chief Technology Officer Patrick Laffan, by simply searching for “stroller engineer” on LinkedIn. “He was the perfect business partner for me. He had a background in engineering baby products,” Stiba says.

Laffan oversaw creation of the original prototype for the Entourage. “[The prototype] was Frankenstein rough, not pretty and it had some issues that needed to be worked out,” Stiba says.

For instance, the stroller, which could hold 150 pounds, was nearly impossible for a parent to curb mount. Recognizing the mechanical advantage wasn’t right, Stiba and Laffan worked with a team of mechanical engineers at the University of Minnesota to iron out the kinks and get the stroller in proper working order.

After years of focus groups, competitive analyses, extensive research and development, manufacturing trips to China, regulatory compliance and countless late nights of hard work, Austlen Baby Co. debuted the Entourage stroller, to rave reviews, at the 2015 ABC Kids Expo, a high-profile juvenileproducts industry trade show. Right out of the gate, the Entourage earned the highest honor given by the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association: Best in Show.

The stroller’s bells and whistles—car-seat adapters for the front and rear frame, second seat, sit-and-stand jump seat and platform rider for bigger kids, beach wheels, cargo bag, snack tray, adult cup holders, 100 percent cotton seat liners, and rain and mosquito covers—as well as its high-quality design have made an impression not just on the retail industry, but also on customers.

Stiba relishes customer feedback and loves hearing how people are using the stroller to fit their lifestyles.

“We’re still a new brand, winning over one customer at a time,” she says. “We have amazing fans, and our customers are always teaching us about the product. One customer who is a music instructor stacked 16 violins on the Entourage. Another customer in Hawaii put a surfboard on it.”

As of late 2016, the Entourage could be found at 50 specialty retailers throughout the nation, including retail giants Bed Bath & Beyond, Amazon and buybuy Baby. Stiba says she hopes to expand into Nordstrom and Pottery Barn Kids soon. Later this year, Austlen Baby Co. plans to unveil more car-seat adapters compatible with every major brand and an airport-friendly travel bag that can transport the Entourage.

Stiba’s inquisitive and resourceful nature, which she refers to as “a blessing and a curse,” helped her endure the challenges she encountered while working to bring the Entourage to market.

“There were times when the going got tough and I wondered why I was putting myself through this,” she says. “My husband encouraged me to just keep going, and it paid off in the end.”

54 | AUSTIN WOMAN | MARCH 2018

SAWYER & CO. Sawyer & Co. is a New Orleans-inspired diner on East Cesar Chavez Street proudly serving craft cocktails, grilled oysters, homemade boudin and breakfast all day. Designer Mickie Danae Spencer partnered with Louisiana native Stephen Shallcross to lovingly restore Arkie’s Grill to its former glory. Arkie’s was an Austin landmark that served guests from 1948 until 2012. Those at Sawyer & Co. are honored to carry on Arkie’s tradition of hosting friends, good food and fair prices.

4827 E. Cesar Chavez St., sawyerand.co

Page 52: AG Prima midrise cigarette jeans, $188; Kendra Scott Libby crystal stud earrings, $64, available at Neiman Marcus, 3400 Palm Way, 512.719.1200, neimanmarcus.com. Blouse, model’s own.

This page: Veronica Beard Bea ribbed ruffledetail T-shirt, $128; Joie Dashiella colorblocked, pleated asymmetric midi skirt, $268; Jimmy Choo Edina etched cork ankle-wrap sandals, $695, available at Neiman Marcus, 3400 Palm Way, 512.719.1200, neimanmarcus.com.

ATXWOMAN.COM | 55

LESLIE STIBA’S TOP FIVE TIPS FOR WORKING MOMPRENEURS 1. T hrow out the idea of a traditional work environment.

“You don’t have to have an office to be a legitimate business anymore. When possible, a virtual work environment is ideal for most parents (and people).

We all need the flexibility to drive kids to lessons, take care of a sick child or just throw in a load of laundry in between conference calls. Also, some people are most productive at night, while others thrive in the morning. Fostering a fluid work/life culture can be so freeing for your team, and it can optimize their productivity and create stronger personal bonds among team members.”

2. Choose the right people to work with.

“The best people generally underestimate their level of contribution because they’re able to self-reflect and see both their strengths and weaknesses. If someone asks for the moon upfront, be wary. And when someone isn’t the right fit, act quickly. It’s truly better for everyone.”

3. Create protected time.

“Whether it’s dinner and bath time, helping with homework after school or date night with your spouse or partner, create sacred time with your family that can’t be touched. Exceptions will creep in from time to time, but having that time set aside that your family can count on each day will go such a long way for you and them.”

4. To be a successful entrepreneur, you must love people.

“You have to see the best in everyone and believe they are capable of more than they even realize.

The number of people who help your business will define your success. If you believe in them, they will believe in you.”

5. Remember, it’s the journey.

“Entrepreneurship takes tremendous tenacity and grit. You’ve got to find a way to keep the wind in your sails. Make sure that on most days, the work you’re doing and the people you’re doing it with brings you joy and satisfaction. If not, chart a new course.”

56 | AUSTIN WOMAN | MARCH 2018

ATXWOMAN.COM |  57

UNDERWRITTEN BY

APPLICATIONS, TICKETS AND MORE INFORMATION:

atxwoman.com/womans-way-2018

Perfect PITCH

They say if you can’t find the product you need, you should make it yourself. These three Austin entrepreneurs and moms took that advice to heart as they started and scaled their businesses, one even making an appearance on ABC’s Shark Tank.

From organic baby food to natural body products and a portable floor surface, each of the entrepreneurs behind these products traces her inspiration back to an unfilled need she saw with her own kids, proving necessity truly is the mother of invention.

BY SUSAN JOHNSTON TAYLOR ATXWOMAN.COM | 59

In May 2008, Caroline Freedman was pregnant with her daughter and “Having seen him order samples of teas and do focus working in global business operations for Dell. The mom-to-be was groups, [de la Rosa] saw a lot of those early initial steps interested in entrepreneurship but hadn’t found that idea that really that he took and suggested some of those initial steps for excited her yet. Then inspiration struck as she looked at baby food, which us,” Freedman says. was then still mostly pureed food in jars.

Christopher connected the pair to others in Austin’s “I saw an opportunity to create a brand,” Freedman says. consumer-packaged-goods scene, and some of those Freedman was casual friends with Lauren de la Rosa, who was then a people went on to become board members of NurturMe. culinary-arts instructor, and the two began working on NurturMe, their NurturMe’s initial product included dried organic fruits organic baby-food company, while holding down full-time jobs. and vegetables that could be mixed with liquid to form a “It just felt right from the start, and we puree, and was picked up by Whole Foods worked easily together,” Freedman says of the in 2010 following the co-founders’ “I saw an opportunity Market partnership. “We would meet up on weekends first meeting with a buyer. That’s when and do a little task list over an 18-month period. things started to get real for Freedman to create a brand.”

The next thing we knew, we had a prototype.” and de la Rosa. They raised a round of —Caroline Freedman Although they were both first-time funding through the Central Texas Angel entrepreneurs, they already had some strong Network in 2011 to get the product on connections. De la Rosa was the roommate of Clayton Christopher, the shelves, and after they’d raised enough money to pay founder of Deep Eddy Vodka and Sweet Leaf Tea. themselves, they quit their full-time jobs.

“Austin is a competitive market, but I’ve always enjoyed the fundraising process,” Freedman says.

In 2013, Freedman and de la Rosa noticed quinoa was becoming trendy and launched some quinoa-based products that proved even more popular with customers. NurturMe later branched out to include other ancient grains, including amaranth, millet and sorghum, which are all nutrient-rich and free from common allergens. In 2017, NurturMe debuted its new tagline—The Tummy-friendly Brand—shifting its focus to its products’ tummy friendliness.

“None of our products have any gluten, dairy, soy or eggs,” Freedman says. “We have a digestive-health thing going on, which is really unique. We’re the only brand in the baby category that has that commitment [to digestive health].”

This year, Freedman says she and de la Rosa plan to expand beyond the baby aisle with products for all ages, including a dairy-free yogurt alternative.

“That evolution that’s come about is due to what our customers dictated,” Freedman says.

As the company’s products have evolved, its distribution has grown.

“2017 was the first year we penetrated that top tier of retailers like Target, Kroger and Sam’s Club,” Freedman says. “We’re still focused on getting into more accounts.

We really see a huge opportunity on e-commerce, but we’ve had more of a focus on brick-and-mortar stores too.”

So, what’s her advice for other entrepreneurs?

“Planning your cash flow is critical,” she says. “Funding usually takes longer [than you expect] and there are a lot of twists and turns. … You never want to back yourself into a corner where you’re out of money and taking whatever you can.”

60 | AUSTIN WOMAN | MARCH 2018

Photos courtesy of Lauren Logan Photography.

CAROLINE FREEDMAN | NURTURME

Photo by Courtney Runn. Product photos courtesy of Primal Pit Paste.

AMY PEREZ | PRIMAL PIT PASTE When Amy Perez’s third-grade daughter developed a noticeable body Primal Pit Paste’s second product is called PoPo Powder odor, the mom and CrossFit trainer didn’t want her daughter using a Body Powder. Perez describes it as “odor care for down conventional aluminum-based deodorant since those products have there.” The powder can also be used in diapers in place of been tied to serious health issues, including cancer. However, Perez also baby powder or in shoes to absorb odors. couldn’t find a natural deodorant at a health-food store that worked “Weightlifters and CrossFitters use it as a substitute for for more than two hours. She started making natural deodorant in her chalk [to prevent chafing in the groin area],” Perez adds. home kitchen and giving away the leftovers to the CrossFit athletes “A lot of talc has asbestos in it. We use organic arrowroot she trained, who loved the fact it lasted for 24 hours with food-grade powder, organic cornstarch and powders that don’t have ingredients and no chemicals. asbestos in it.”

“I couldn’t afford to keep making all this deodorant The company also carries an and giving it away for free,” Perez says. So, she started “It really started with organic lip balm called Pucker selling it. “It really started with $100 in my kitchen.”

Paste and a tooth powder, but $100 in my kitchen.”

Primal Pit Paste incorporated in May 2012, with a natural deodorant is its primary boost from the Paleo and vegan communities, but the product.

—Amy Perez business really started to scale that September, when a Perez hired a team in May blogger with an international following wrote about it and 2013 and moved the business into a 10,000-square-foot the product went viral. space in February 2014. But because her business was then operating in Florida, which regulates cosmetics as drugs, Primal Pit Paste got a one-year temporary approval to continue operating prior to getting mired in red tape behind many other companies before getting full approval. So, after considering a few other locales, including Raleigh, N.C., Perez moved her business and her family from Florida to Austin.

“It’s a central point of distribution,” she says. “I love Austin. I’m so glad we came here. I just had a gut feeling.”

Up until that point, Primal Pit Paste had mainly sold its products online. Wal-Mart called in 2013, but Perez turned the company down.

“I didn’t want to bite off more than we could chew for scaling,” she says. “I wanted to keep the focus on e-commerce.”

Whole Foods Market contacted Perez about six months prior to her move, and that seemed like a better fit.

“Our goal was to get into Whole Foods first before we went into more mass-market [retailers],” she says.

Primal Pit Paste is now available at Whole Foods, other health-food stores, Kroger and H-E-B, and more conversations are taking place about distribution in big-box retailers now that the company has more brand recognition.

After six years in business, Primal Pit Paste shows no signs of slowing down.

“The secret sauce really has been having a brand that people resonate with,” Perez says. “We are serious and transparent about our ingredients and won’t compromise, but we try to be relevant and fun.”

ATXWOMAN.COM | 61

CHRISTIE BARANY | MONKEY MAT

62 | AUSTIN WOMAN | MARCH 2018

“It was such a funny moment,” Barany says. “We literally sat in front of a computer screen waiting for orders to start rolling in.”

The co-founders also made sales calls to small local retailers, but quickly discovered they needed product certificates they hadn’t known they needed.

“At the beginning of the process, you don’t know what you don’t know,” Barany says.

They got the certifications and continued selling to retailers.

Then, after a lengthy application process that included a 75-page handwritten application, Barany and Turich were invited to pitch Monkey Mat on ABC’s Shark Tank in July 2013, an experience Barany describes as surreal.

“The most awkward moment is you walk out, you have to stand on the X mark and you’re standing there for a full two minutes before anything actually begins,” she says.

“It is the longest two minutes ever, and then the grilling begins.”

Despite the intimidation factor, the pair ended up landing an investment of $100,000 for 35 percent equity from Mark Cuban and Lori Greiner. Barany had to keep the outcome secret until the episode aired in April 2014.

“It was extraordinary,” she says. “Within 48 hours [of airing], we had doubled the income that we had had to date.”

Monkey Mat is now available in major retailers, including Bed Bath & Beyond, buybuy Baby and The Container Store.

In addition to the Monkey Mat, which comes in a pouch for easy transport, the company also launched a Fur-eez line of pet products, including a collapsible bowl and car-seat cover.

Barany says Monkey Mat’s mission is “really about that convenience and making simple solutions to everyday problems,” adding that now she’s carrying that mission into the pet market.

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Photo courtesy of Monkey Mat. Product image courtesy of 12 ELMS.

While flying with her daughters, then ages 3 and 4, in 2011, Christie Barany had to keep them entertained during a six-hour flight delay.

“They were crawling all over the floor,” she says of their time spent in the airport. “It was just disgusting and so, I literally started trying to find something that was portable [to cover the ground].”

Barany couldn’t find a portable blanket or portable floor surface to suit her needs, so she started brainstorming something to fill that need and shared her idea with Courtney Turich, a colleague who lived in Denver. Turich didn’t have kids but frequently went hiking, biking and camping. Barany recalls how Turich reacted to the idea.

“At the beginning of the “I would love something like [that] for my outdoor lifestyle!” she had said. process, you don’t know “It’s truly a collaboration to meet both mom and baby needs, as well as this what you don’t know.” outdoor, active lifestyle,” Barany says.

—Christie Barany A former Wall Street banker, Barany was, at the time, spearheading advanced technology for a medical-device company and taking frequent business trips. Suffice to say, she and her family needed a change of pace.

“My mom passed away very suddenly, and one of her mantras had been ‘Do what you love and try to find that balance,’ ” Barany says. “I realized I was completely out of balance.”

She remembers thinking, “There’s an opportunity here. There’s a need for my family to redefine life.” So, she took what she calls the crazy leap.

After soliciting feedback and iterating with glue-gunned or stapled prototypes, they had put together a professionally sewn version in about nine months. Barany and Turich, who’s no longer with the company, did a soft launch of the Monkey Mat in October 2012 with an email blast to friends and family.

©2018 HEB, 18-3103

G

OURMET

RECIPE REVEAL

SALAD WITH A SLANT

Chef Amanda Turner of Juniper shares how to make her harmonious cross-season salad.

BY NICHOLAS BARANCYK With longer, sun-soaked days just around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about all things spring, suntans and salads included. Chef Amanda Turner of Juniper has you covered on

the latter with her creative strawberry and roasted-beet salad.

“The cool thing about this salad—and spring, in general— is that it’s a crossing of seasons,” Turner says.

STRAWBERRY AND ROASTED-BEET SALAD Serves two

Ingredients for salad

Ingredients for vinaigrette

Beet preparation

2 cups beets, roasted

1 tablespoon strawberry jam or preserves

1 cup strawberries

1/4 cup white vinegar

1 batch strawberry balsamic vinaigrette

1/8 cup balsamic vinegar

1. Scrub the beets to remove any dirt or debris and dry them with a towel.

Alternatively, you can buy pre-roasted beets from the market.

1/2 tablespoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper

Salt to taste

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon candied nuts

Salt to taste

3 tablespoons blue cheese (preferably Gorgonzola)

Directions for vinaigrette

Dill and chives, sliced

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the strawberry jam, vinegars and black pepper.

2. S tream in the olive oil to form an emulsion.

3. S prinkle in salt to taste.

2. U sing a sheet pan lined with aluminum foil, coat the beets with oil. Sprinkle them with salt and cover them with more foil to form an airtight seal.

3. H eat the oven to 350 degrees and roast the beets for two and a half to three hours, or until they are tender and pierce easily with a skewer.

4. Remove the beets from the oven and remove their skins immediately using a towel. Set them aside to cool.

Plate assembly 1. C ut the beets into 1-inch obliques and the strawberries into quarters.

2. D ress the salad liberally with the vinaigrette until the strawberries and beets are well-coated. Add more salt and pepper if needed.

3. M ound the strawberries and beets in a bowl and top them with the candied nuts.

4. Break the Gorgonzola into chunks and place it on the top.

5. Garnish the salad liberally with chives and dill.

Suggested pairing

Photo by Ashlee Huff.

Chef Turner says this salad works wonders with lamb brisket and a bottle of Chianti.

64 | AUSTIN WOMAN | MARCH 2018

G

OURMET

GIRL WALKS INTO A BAR

AN EVENING AT AVIARY

The vino-centric Aviary Wine & Kitchen offers serious food-anddrink pairings with a side of playfulness.

BY KRISTI WILLIS Aviary Wine & Kitchen opened in 2006 as a home-décor shop that dabbled in food and wine. It was fun to meet friends in the lounge and sip from an unusual wine list while catching up or to enjoy a pop-up dinner or wine tasting.

TO DRINK

It’s no accident “wine” is listed before “kitchen” in the restaurant’s name. Aviary is a decidedly wine-forward gathering spot, with the owners’ love for wine shining through in the extensive wine list. The bythe-glass list alone is adventurous, with offerings from familiar locales like France, Italy, Spain and Napa, Calif., as well as some less familiar wine-producing spots like Greece and Austria.

The bottle list is playful, with wines grouped by celebrity personalities, from David Bowie—featuring sparkling wines, of course— to the sultry reds represented by Etta James and the large-bottle formats of Andre the Giant. Bottle prices range from the budget-minded, everyday selections to spare-no-expense celebration wines.

Photos courtesy of Aviary Wine & Kitchen.

In 2017, Co-owners John Coronado and Marco Fiorilo decided to go all in and convert the space, located on South Lamar Boulevard, to a full-service wine bar and kitchen, an expanded venue for sharing their passion that wine is for everyone.

Aviary now serves lunch and dinner Tuesday through Saturday, and offers brunch service each Sunday. Happy-hour specials of $1 off oysters and $10 off select bottles of wine are enough to entice anyone to skip out of work early. The Wednesday Dirty Dozen special—half price on select bottles of wine—is a wine lover’s dream come true, and diners who prefer their meal and vino alfresco can be served at the patio seats overlooking the hustle and bustle of South Lamar Boulevard.

The stylish dining room is bright and inviting. Peacock-blue walls surround a charming bar that winds down the length of the restaurant, offering a few choice bar seats overlooking the chefs shucking oysters and dishing up house favorites.

The well-curated wine collection lines the wall behind the bar, with bottles stacked to the ceiling, inviting guests to test their taste buds.

Nodding to its namesake, two colorful peacock statues peer out from the bar and onto the street, keeping watch over the busy dining room. The vibe is casual and lively with a dash of irreverence. Aviary is never too serious yet always serves noteworthy food and wine.

66 | AUSTIN WOMAN | MARCH 2018

For those who prefer a Pilsner to pinot, Aviary also offers an equally thoughtful craft-beer selection.

In February, beverage director Alex Bell and Fiorilo launched Aviary Wine School, an educational wine-tasting series that takes place the second Sunday of each month. For $25 a class or $250 for a season pass, participants can dive deeper into their wine education.

TO EAT

Aviary’s Mediterranean-influenced and seasonal menu was designed for sharing and pairing. Whether you order oysters from the raw bar, small bites from the Peck section of the menu or more substantial dishes from the Graze menu options, the staff is at the ready with suggestions for the best pairings for each dish.

The plates and presentation are thoughtful in the details, from the perfect jam selected for a chosen cheese to the fresh-shaved horseradish paired with a display of raw oysters.

Executive Chef Thomas Calhoun, previously of La Condesa, Uchi, Uchiko and Sway, shows his mastery of the palate, striking a satisfying balance with each plate. The smoked-fish toast has a bright bite of fennel and peppery radish, and the humbly named grain salad has a complex medley of wheat berries, couscous, crunchy winter vegetables and tangy harissa yogurt. The roasted whole fish is a house favorite, with a crispy skin giving way to delicate, flaky fish served in flavorful anchovy beurre blanc that will leave you begging for more bread to mop up the sauce.

The short dessert list offers a rotating selection of cakes, tarts and ice creams worthy of breaking your diet. Or guests can simply splurge with the daily house-favorite paring of cookies and sparkling wine.

Aviary Wine & Kitchen touts substance and style while retaining a casual, come-as-you-are atmosphere that’s a perfect match for its South Austin neighborhood and a great reason to add it to your list of regular haunts.

6 OR MORE BOTTLES

Mix &Match • March 12 -April 7

80+ locations throughout Central Texas TWINLIQUORS.COM

*Spring wine sale runs 3/12/18-4/7/18. Discount off regular priced 750ml bottles of wine. Excludes Twin Deals, Bargain Barrels, Ends in "2" pricing and sale items. Some exclusions apply. Please drink responsibly.

G

OURMET

FOOD NEWS

NEIGHBORHOOD CHARM

Jessie Katz and Andy Means are bringing Hank’s, a new familyfocused eatery and coffee shop, to Windsor Park.

BY SABA GHAFFARI Whether you’re on the hunt for a quick coffee and bite of pastry, a meet-up spot for happy hour with friends or an intimate private-party venue, Hank’s may be just what you’re looking for. It is the newest restaurant on the block to offer guests a diverse array of dining options under one roof. Set to open in early March, the all-day eatery, which also has a drive-thru, features a menu rich with comfort food such as sandwiches, pastas, burgers, salads and bowls.

Photos by Wynn Myers.

The menu includes many vegetarian-based dishes, like the crispy rice bowl with pink sushi rice dressed with lemon-ginger-infused juice and served with cucumbers, herbs and a fried egg on top, as well as glutenfree options and a wide drink selection ranging from beers on tap and wine to frozen cocktails.

Husband-and-wife duo Andy Means and Jessie Katz own the new establishment, located in the Windsor Park neighborhood. While

Means has 18 years of experience in the restaurant business, Katz started her career in a different industry, working as a freelance costume designer for films, including notable flicks such as Spy Kids and Predators, and styling for commercials and photo shoots in between. Katz gradually made her exit from the film industry due to the tough nature of the business.

“Honestly, it was because it’s such a male-dominated industry,” Katz explains. “So, I wasn’t comfortable anymore.”

Katz’s relationship with Means ultimately lured her into the restaurant business. Means would ask for her help with various tasks at Henri’s Cheese and Wine Shop until Katz eventually found herself working at the restaurant full time. Henri’s, a gourmet cheese, charcuterie and wine shop located on South Lamar Boulevard, closed after a fire in April 2016. Henri’s was named after Means’ grandfather, and the same tradition continues with Hank’s, as Hank was Means’ grandfather’s nickname.

68 | AUSTIN WOMAN | MARCH 2018

Psst, wanna hear a lil’ secret?

Hank’s certainly has more room to offer its guests, with 325 seats. The interior space, designed by Claire Zinnecker, carries an airy and relaxed feel, with elevated ceilings and ample natural light seeping in through oversized windows. Bench seating throughout the restaurant remains consistent with the casual vibe Katz and Means desired.

“I love it,” Katz says of the restaurant. “It’s kind of a dream building.”

You don’t have to own a dog to enjoy the dogs plus great food and drinks at Yard Bar.

DOG PARK + BAR + OUTDOOR PATIO 6700 BURNET ROAD, AUSTIN YARDBAR.COM / @YARDBAR

on lake travis

OPEN DAILY | SHACK512.COM | 512.547.7610

WE DO SUNSETS & GREAT FOOD

W

ELLNESS

WAITING ROOM

POST-WORKOUT PITFALLS

Motivate yourself to avoid these nine tempting fitness-crushing habits.

BY REBECCA L. BENNETT

So, you’ve mustered up the willpower to hit the gym and conquer a blood-pumping workout. Great job!

However, it’s important to remember exercise itself is only half the journey to achieving your personal healthand-fitness goals. Your post-workout habits also play a pivotal role in helping or hindering your progress.

If you want your hard work and discipline to truly pay off, avoid these nine common post-workout mistakes.

MISTAKE NO. 1: NOT COOLING DOWN

Exercise elevates your heart rate and blood pressure, so it’s smart to incorporate a few minutes of cool-down time into your workout routine. Walking on a treadmill allows your vitals to gradually return back to their normal levels, lowering your risk of blood clots and injuries.

MISTAKE NO. 2: SKIPPING YOUR STRETCHES

It’s important to incorporate stretching into your post-exercise regimen. Why? Because any workout, no matter how rigorous, has the potential to strain and lightly damage your muscles, joints, ligaments and tendons. Stretching promotes proactive healing by increasing blood flow to these areas while also preventing future injuries by improving flexibility. It could also help ease next-day soreness.

MISTAKE NO. 3: WAITING TO WASH UP

After a workout, your instinct might be to chill out for a while and wash up when you’re feeling a little less tired. However, immediately showering and changing is actually the best post-workout practice. You see, sweat—even dried sweat—encourages bacterial growth, increasing your risk of developing rashes, acne, infections and other miscellaneous undesirables. Plus, let’s face it, you probably smell.

MISTAKE NO. 5: DRINKING ALCOHOL TOO SOON

Since exercise raises your blood pressure, combining alcohol and exercise increases your risk for blood clots and dehydration while additionally lowering your endurance and ability to build muscle. Experts recommend waiting at least half an hour after your vitals return to their normal resting levels before indulging in that celebratory cocktail.

MISTAKE NO. 6: EATING POORLY OR NOT AT ALL

If one of your fitness goals is to lose weight, it might be tempting to skip eating a meal after working out. However, according to a 2015 study conducted by the National Center for Biotechnology Information, your body needs nourishment to recover and make itself ready for the next time you head to the gym. If not a full meal, try to eat at least a wholesome snack containing minimal sugar within 30 minutes post-workout, and make healthy choices a rule of thumb when it comes to mealtime.

MISTAKE NO. 7: VEGETATING THE REST OF THE DAY

Getting in a great morning workout doesn’t mean it’s healthy to sit idly in your office chair for the remainder of the day or to vegetate on your couch for the rest of the evening. Make it your goal to move as much as possible throughout the day. Ask your employer for a standing desk or sit on an exercise ball for a few hours every day at work, or simply start incorporating a walk into your lunch break. At home, turn TV time into a stretch session and take your dog on a long night walk.

MISTAKE NO. 8: NOT GETTING ENOUGH SLEEP

According to the National Strength and Conditioning Association, sleep between workouts is a nonnegotiable step in your body’s recovery process. Not getting a solid seven to nine hours, even for just one night, can raise your odds of sustaining an injury. And consistent lack of sleep can have significant effects on your overall workout performance—a strong reason to make sure you’re counting enough sheep when your head hits the pillow.

MISTAKE NO. 4: REHYDRATING POORLY OR NOT AT ALL

You sweat out a good portion of your body’s water supply when you exercise, so rehydration should be prioritized after your daily workout. Drinking plenty of water and avoiding sugary sports drinks—which, according to Harvard Health, actually contain more sugar than beneficial electrolytes—will help your body recover.

70 | AUSTIN WOMAN | MARCH 2018

MISTAKE NO. 9: BEING TOO HARD ON YOURSELF

As tempting as it can be, don’t obsess about the number on the scale. Improving your physical health and fitness is an amazing goal to pursue, but be sure to be kind to yourself too. Feeling positive about who you are will help you remain disciplined before, during and after workouts. As the saying goes, it takes the same amount of energy to be negative as it does to be positive.

Sponsored Content

FIVE MISTAKES PEOPLE MAKE WHEN SELLING A VEHICLE

BY CHELSEA BANCROFT

1. Selling it yourself I’m sure you’re thinking, “Of course, she’s going to say that. She works for a dealership.” Let me explain. Yes, you might be able to get a little more money selling your car privately, but there are more risks that don’t make that small amount worth it.

First, there’s the safety issue. Once you advertise your car and find an interested party, you have to meet up with a complete stranger to show him or her the car. Please, should you decide to sell privately, don’t ever go alone to meet a potential buyer, and always make sure to meet in a public place. Next, there are concerns about scams and fraud. Unfortunately, car-selling scams unfold a lot more than you may like to think. With a dealership, you might not get as much in trade, but at least you know the check isn’t going to bounce.

2. Paying a lot to have your car detailed Dealers are not going to offer you more money for your car just because the outside is sparkling clean and you’ve vacuumed the carpets. I’m not saying to bring it in to be appraised looking like a total pigsty, but don’t spend a lot of money to get your car detailed. Clean out all the trash and wipe down the inside, and if your car is terribly dirty on the outside, maybe run it through an inexpensive car wash.

Spending any more than that won’t make a difference. The same goes for fixing minor dents and dings; don’t bother. It’s likely the dealership has a tool that can pop them back out in seconds.

3. Not having the proper documents When going to sell or trade in your car, make sure you have all the necessary documents you need: the car’s title, service records, registration, etc. Nothing is more frustrating than going through all the effort to sell your vehicle only to realize you forgot the title at home. Don’t feel the need to get a vehicle-history report, though, as the dealership will pull one. Also, be sure to bring all the necessary accessories, like spare keys and the owner’s manual. Not having these might lower the appraised value.

4. Not knowing how much your car is worth This is one of the biggest mistakes you can make. Not having an idea of what your vehicle is worth beforehand can lead to either accepting an offer that’s too low or setting your expectations too high for what your vehicle is actually worth. Before even stepping foot in a dealership, you should print out quotes from several different car-value websites. Some I recommend include Kelley Blue Book, NADAguides, Autotrader, Edmunds and cars.com. Another good idea is to look online to see how much your exact vehicle (same make, model and year) is selling for at dealerships in your area. Remember, though, these are estimates. There are many factors that go into appraising the value of a car: age, mileage, season (Convertibles in the winter are worth less than in the summer.), wear and tear, maintenance upkeep, accident history, current market demand and more. Also keep in mind these are retail values.

Dealerships may offer you a little less than retail value because chances are they’ll end up selling it for less.

5. Only visiting one dealership What? The woman who works for Roger Beasley is encouraging you to go to other dealerships? Yep, I sure am! What a dealership offers you on a trade-in can depend on many different factors, especially its current inventory. If a dealership already has a lot of vehicles similar to the one you’re selling, dealers will likely offer you less. Even if you are set on trading in your car for a certain new make and model, getting quotes (in writing) from other dealerships will give you some leverage when negotiating the offer.

I hope these tips are helpful. As always, please feel free to reach out to me with any questions or suggestions for topics at cbancroft@rogerbeasley.com.

Chelsea Bancroft is the strategic-partnerships and social-media manager at Roger Beasley Mazda and a blogger at onechelofanadventure.com.

W

ELLNESS

DRINK THIS, NOT THAT

NOT YOUR AVERAGE CUP OF JOE

Picnik’s grass-fed butter coffee is much more than just a midday pickup.

BY ELIZABETH UCLES Coffee is a staple in almost every woman’s day-to-day life. From the cup of joe that’s sipped slowly to kick off the workday to the second or third cup that’s guzzled to avoid a midday crash, coffee energizes us when we need it most. Although these bursts of energy revive us, we oftentimes experience with them what

we’ll call jittery hand syndrome or an upset stomach and an assortment of other caffeine-related side effects.

So, where should a gal turn in search of an alternative pick-me-up? One woman says the answer lies in grass-fed butter coffee.

Drink this: grass-fed butter coffee Not that: regular coffee Says who: Naomi Seifter, founder of Picnik, an Austin-based health-focused restaurant that began as a food truck on South Lamar Boulevard in 2013. Seifter started Picnik out of necessity. After growing up plagued by various food allergies, she recognized a lack of accessibility to healing foods in the marketplace. In 2014, Seifter added coffees to the menu, brews that were based on coffees she’d make for herself, those rich in high-quality fats as the base. Organic coffee combined with grass-fed butter and MCT oil are part of the Picnik beverage menu that has created a cult following, attracting caffeine aficionados in droves and cementing the backbone of the company, which has a new brickand-mortar location on North Burnet Road.

Why: Aside from the second wind coffee gives its consumers, the drink has also been linked to reducing health risks such as cardiovascular disease and Type 2 diabetes, according to some in the medical community. However, there’s no denying coffee is not the kindest beverage to those with a weak stomach, often causing bloating and heartburn. Seifter says the high-quality saturated fats found in her grass-fed butter coffee cater to a wider array of dietary needs.

Bye bye, bloating The combination of grass-fed butter and MCT oil—a derivative of coconut oil—help rid the negative effects of regular coffee. “When you combine those two ingredients in conjunction with coffee, it’s really powerful because it helps your body with the absorption of the caffeine,” Seifter says. “When you have a regular cup of coffee, you’ll get a little bit jittery and your stomach will get a little weird, but the fat just helps with the assimilation of the caffeine, so you don’t have those same negative side effects that I’ve seen in my experience.”

Staying fit “Caffeine on its own can sometimes be little bit of an appetite suppressant, but when you add the high-quality saturated fats, it helps that even more,” Seifter says. Picnik customers rave that their 7 a.m. coffee keeps their stomachs satisfied until close to 2 p.m. “It helps people stay lean and trim and it helps facilitate other weight-loss programs. People who are fans of sugar-free diets or the ketogenic diet can use any of our drinks.”

Starbucks who?

Seifter explains the butter and MCT oil in the coffee leave a sort of silky feel in the mouth.

However, easy add-ins like grass-fed whey protein and grass-fed collagen egg yolk help make the texture creamy and frothy. “We have chocolatebased drinks on our menu, but rather than using Hershey’s chocolate syrup, we use raw cacao butter and raw cacao powder, which are the components of raw chocolate,” Seifter says, citing an example of a natural sweeter she uses. “And that’s what we blend into our drinks with maple syrup and it tastes just like a normal mocha, but you get the health benefits of antioxidant-rich cacao.”

72 | AUSTIN WOMAN | MARCH 2018

Photos courtesy of Picnik.

MCT magic “MCT oil on its own is very powerful for cognitive function,” Seifter says. The medicinal boosts of MCT oil in Seifter’s grass-fed butter coffee make it that much more beneficial than regular coffee.

Enhancing Life.

Excelling in Care..

200

$

Get Lucky Discount

Laser Vaginal Rejuvenation

Dr. Neyman is highly trained in in-office gynecology procedures and minimally invasive surgeries.

She offers a full range of gynecology services including: ●

Annual gynecology exams

●

da Vinci® robotic-assisted surgery

●

MonaLisa Touch® treatment for painful intercourse

●

Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy

●

Endometriosis diagnosis and treatment

●

ACESSATM uterine fibroid therapy

●

Pelvic prolapse treatment

Good thru 3/1/2018

Sherry L. Neyman, MD, FACOG www.rwgdocs.com

Specialist in gynecology/women’s health

(512) 425-3875

W

ELLNESS

HER ROUTINE

STEPPING OUT

Foot tapping keeps clogger Carol Brady trim, taut and terrific.

BY GRETCHEN M. SANDERS

Thursday nights, she’s busy tapping across a dancefloor with the Clickety Cloggers, a dance club that performs traditional Appalachianstyle clogging with a modern flair. With erect upper bodies and dangling arms, the Clickety Cloggers practice rock-stepping in unison at Dance

by Carly studio in South Austin, the double taps on their shoes clicking a lively beat.

“Clogging is very aerobic,” says Brady, a club member for 22 years.

“Some dances really get your heart beating and leave you breathless.”

The percussive step sequences work leg muscles and build endurance.

Dances choreographed to Irish tunes, Lyle Lovett and Waylon Jennings can last as long as four minutes.

Brady says the highspirited folkdance may have originally grown out of fabric workers tapping their feet to the beat of their machines. Then the English, Scottish, Irish and Dutch-Germans brought clogging to the U.S. via the Cumberland Gap in the 18th century. From the Appalachian Mountains, an Americanized style of the dance quickly spread throughout the country.

Carol Brady, front row, second from right Brady loves clogging because of the people she meets and the opportunities she gets to showcase her moves at festivals, nursing homes and prisons. During her years teaching GED classes at the Kyle Correctional Center, the Clickety Cloggers would perform for the inmates.

“It was the most rewarding thing I ever did,” she says.

Here’s how this live wire keeps on hot stepping.

THE A.M.:

“I wake up without an alarm at 6:30 a.m., and hit the floor for 20 minutes of yoga. I have a back problem, so if I don’t stretch, I pay the price. Then I have coffee, feed the dog and read for an hour. Right now, I’m reading The Zealot by Reza Aslan and The Sandalwood Tree by Elle Newmark. I’m too tired to read at night.”

THE WORKOUT:

“I clog once a week for 90 minutes with the Clickety Cloggers, attend an hour-long yoga class twice a week at Cafe Dance, and do machines and free weights at the Town Lake YMCA on the other days. I also walk my dog twice daily and regularly meet a friend for a 4-mile walk around Lady Bird Lake. Every year, I go to Big Bend with a much younger group of folks for five days of hiking. I hiked the nearly 13-mile-long South Rim trail last year for my 80th birthday!”

74 | AUSTIN WOMAN | MARCH 2018

THE DIET:

“I’m no vegetarian, but I don’t eat much meat. I don’t eat much, period.

I have to be careful because I’m short. I will not let my weight go above what it is now. I’ve weighed 120 pounds for 15 years. If I feel my clothes getting tight, then I will exercise more and back off the food. I don’t keep sweets around because I will eat them. Instead, I eat mostly fruit, vegetables and salads at home and sweets only when I go out. Every once in a while, I enjoy a margarita. I also cook, my specialty being barbeque meatballs that everyone loves. I mix cranberry sauce, sauerkraut, brown sugar, breadcrumbs and eggs with ground round but no barbeque sauce. The meatballs cook for an hour, deliciously smelling up the whole house. They’re the kind of thing you eat in moderation.”

THE GEAR:

“Clogging shoes have double taps on the toe and heel. That’s how you get that distinct clogging sound. I buy Stevens Stompers shoes online, and in 22 years, I’ve only needed two pairs. They cost about $80 and hold up well. I buy mine a little large to allow for an insert that gives me extra cushioning from all that stepping. The shoes and taps come separately, so a club member attaches my taps for me. We clog in loose black pants and a club shirt that serves as our uniform. For practice, you want to wear clothing that allows for free movement: yoga pants, tights, shorts and skirts.

Jeans are too restrictive. That’s really it for equipment. At Christmas, dancers will sometimes add bells and tambourines.”

THE MOTIVATION:

“Both of my parents died before age 60, my father from a heart attack, my mother from breast cancer. I don’t care how long I live; I just want to be healthy while I’m alive. I’ve never said that I’m too old for anything, especially exercise. As I’ve aged, I’ve kept on doing the same activities I’ve always done. It pays off. The proof is clear: I don’t take any medications and I’ve never had major surgery. I don’t know anyone my age who can do the things I do. The average age of my Big Bend hiking group is 40. They say you lose it if you don’t use it. It’s true. I see people who can’t bend over to pick things up. I’m extremely flexible because I work at it. It helps that I truly enjoy exercising, and I feel better when I do it.”

THE MINDSET:

“Just keep doing what you’ve always done, like the little engine that could. As long as you do that, you can do it. You can say, ‘It’s hard,’ but you don’t say, ‘I can’t.’ When you are determined, you can do anything.”

THE P.M.:

“Right now, I’m watching Victoria on PBS. I’ll have a glass of wine in the evening and enjoy a few episodes of that. I also make a to-do list for the next day, otherwise I’ll forget what I’m supposed to do. It’s usually 11 p.m. before I get in bed.”

Photo by Dale Pohlmeier.

It takes some fancy footwork to keep up with Carol Brady. The 81-year-old retired teacher moves her body more than most people half her age.

Y A D G OON

DOTERN

H H

A 0PM 1 lDD a e Id 2PM .ly/ 1 t i , b 13 H C R MA ces A ’ N n I ki ST mo U S A the ck ST, nd a H no T d 6 son ia Pen t . ere a p r W W o em ra Vict 715 nd T y Deb a d

AF

th You n r edy ste g e a W Tr ow rn h s e nho e k Sid an ore f Pl m f t i e h J ie W n n Bo + ham , 21 Y a r R G A ESS ries C r E a N H

le uck B h den Jos w o D R BAN ndy William T a S I M BY WR and NO PRESENTED m , T a N h EVE Gra e

den Har

ew nt F e r e t Rev righ e W Th ney bitt s e Syd aN bar SW r Dee a ee B -SX n L E o h R J LP Bet CIA I

OFF

NON

idealproductions.com

goldennorthstudios.com

onthedotwoman.com

atxwoman.com

P

OINT OF VIEW

I AM AUSTIN WOMAN

THE ROAD LESS TRAVELED

In his 2005 Stanford commencement address, Steve Jobs famously I almost didn’t apply to the University of Texas master of said, “You can’t connect the dots looking forward; you can only conarchitecture program. I wasn’t convinced I wanted to be nect them looking backward. So, you have to trust that the dots will an architect. I prepared applications addressed to far more somehow connect in your future. You have to trust in something— glamorous places like Los Angeles, Boston and New York, your gut, destiny, life, karma, whatever. This approach has never let but Texas? Texas? Who the hell moves to Texas? me down, and it has made all the differStill, I couldn’t dismiss that UT ofence in my life.” fered some of the best resources and Entrepreneurship found me through opportunities for a studying architect. my willingness to explore, to try things on, So, I applied, I got accepted, I came to to trust that sinking feeling in my gut that visit Austin and I left still not convinced said, “This is not it,” and to keep reaching I wanted to be an architect, but without for and seeking those scary and exhilarata shadow of a doubt, knowing I had to ing butterfly flutters that say, “Oh, hell be in Austin. yeah! This! This is it.”

Austin fit. One could feel that “Hi, Entrepreneurship is about recognizing how are you?” vibe before having ever that knowing feeling, taking it seriously laid eyes on Daniel Johnston’s famous and developing yourself, your idea and mural. Austin had a certain kind of your world to match up with it. hospitality to it. People were curious When Yard Bar opened, people would about what you were up to, how they often say, “Wow, how great! You got to could help you and who they could follow your dream.” It took me a while connect you with. It was the perfect to absorb the impact of that comment. place for exploration.

Really? This was my big D dream: a dogI eventually completed my master’s park bar? Martin Luther King Jr. had a degree, taking detours in theater, acting dream. My little dog-park bar fell very for nonactors, painting, drawing, phoshort by comparison. My little dog-park tography and even law. I went to work bar couldn’t possibly qualify as a dream. I for some of the best architecture firms couldn’t make the connection. in town, designing homes and schools, Then, one day, I was signing payroll bars and restaurants. I kept grinding checks, not paying too much attention, through it, not because they were bad when suddenly, I got stopped. I was signplaces to work, but because the work ing a check for one of our “bark rangers,” was a struggle for me. I was good at it, for a person whose job I had created, a job but it didn’t come easily or naturally. that had never existed before, a job that And there was still this sinking feeling, provides for this person’s livelihood, and this unshakeable knowing that this was I just started crying. not it for me. But what was?

This little dream of mine had creIn 2009, my breakthrough came ated this job and 30 more. This little in the form of a 90-pound American dream of mine has yielded new friendWhen it’s your turn to bulldog that I named Murray. Being a ships, new homes for good dogs, loads young professional with a new dog, I of laughter, joy and delight. This little leap, I promise, the was constantly juggling my own happydream has given me a family of the best hour plans with Murray’s needs to managers, bark rangers, cooks and barsocialize. I could take Murray on-leash net will catch you. tenders in the game. Most importantly, to most outdoor bars, but he couldn’t this little dream has allowed me to run around. cultivate community in this city that I love, this city that gave me “Why couldn’t I open a beer trailer in the dog park?” I thought to my entrepreneurial journey. myself. This was it. This was the kindle to that fire of knowing in my That is the dream. It’s worth searching for, worth preparing for. gut, a fire that sustained me for six more years before a solution came Don’t give up on it. Don’t give up on yourself. When it’s your turn to life in the form of Yard Bar, Austin’s first and only dog park, bar to leap, I promise, the net will catch you. and restaurant.

Austin Woman features a reader-submitted essay every month in the I Am Austin Woman column.

To be considered for June’s I Am Austin Woman, email a 500-word submission on a topic of your choice by April 1 to submissions@awmediainc.com with the subject line “I Am Austin Woman.”

76 | AUSTIN WOMAN | MARCH 2018

Photo courtesy of Summer Maulden Photography.

For Yard Bar Founder Kristen Heaney, the path to entrepreneurship wasn’t one she sought out; it’s one that chose her.

44 PM

E X C L U S I V E LY AT B E N O L D ’ S

Austin’s one and only for more than 85 years.

2900 West Anderson Ln. | Wo m a n & L o c a l l y O w n e d | M-F. 10 am - 6 pm, Sat. 10 am - 5 pm | 512.452.6491 | Benolds.com

AUSTIN WOMAN MAGAZINE | MARCH 2018

2018 SUV of Texas Volvo XC60

2017 CUV of Texas Volvo XC90

2016 CUV of Texas Volvo XC90

The all-new Volvo XC60. The Texas Auto Writers Association’s 2018 SUV of Texas.

VOLVO CARS OF AUSTIN | 6375 HWY 290 EAST • 512-402-5554 • VOLVOAUSTIN.COM VOLVO CARS OF GEORGETOWN | 7501 S IH-35 (EXIT 257) • 855-255-5788 • VOLVOGEORGETOWN.COM ©2018 Volvo Cars of North America, LLC. The Iron Mark is a registered trademark of Volvo.

“Entrepreneurs are willing to work 80 hours a week to avoid working 40 hours a week.” —Lori Greiner

CLEARLY, THIS IS NOT OUR FIRST RODEO.