Cowgirls In Style Magazine Spring Sample

Maga zine

CIS Cow irls In Style g

Spring 2013

SPRING Fashions

The Cowboy Rides Away ... An evening with GEORGE STRAIT

10 Snaffle Bit TIPS

Spring 2013

$5.95

www.CowgirlsInStyle.com

UP CLOSE with Alex Chavez , a Top QH Competitor and Wife of MLB Player, Eric Chavez.

Also meet her sister Nikki in our “Around the Barrel.”

COUNTRY

BRIDAL issue

COWGI R LS Spring 2013

In Style

Magazine

Features

18 The Cowboy RIdes

Away George Strait says farewell to his fans.

18

35 Country Weddings

Find ideas for your upcoming wedding. Featuring real life country weddings.

50

Photo by: ImpulsephotographyMB.com

ON THE COVER...

Cover: Alexandra Chavez Photo by: ImpulsePhotographyMB.com

50 Alex Chavez

Meet Alex Chavez, horsewoman and wife of Major League Baseball player, Eric Chavez.

35

Below: Nicole Riggle Photo by: ImpulsePhotographyMB.com

66

62 Ten Snaffle Bit Tips

Ten tips to transition your horse from snaffle to bridle.

64 Meet 2013 MRA

50 64

QUeen Meet Chenae Shiner, the new Miss Rodeo America 2013.

6 | Cowgirls In Style | Spring 2013

62 Photo by: Kellie Carr Photo by: ImpulsephotographyMB.com

Spring 2013

Magazine

In Style

R

Check out our Bridal and Country Wedding section on page 35.

Photo by: D Bar D Photography

Coming Summer 2013...

In Every Issue 9 Cowgirls MailRoom 10 A Cowgirl’s Voice 11 Editor’s Picks 12 E-Cowgirl 16 Beauty Barn Spring Beauty Tips 18 Entertainment 19 Country Buzz The Cowboy Rides Away George Strait Tour 20 In fashion Spring Fashion Forecast Rodeo Runway 30 Spirit of a Cowgirl 49 cowgirl entrepreneur 58 How ‘Bout them cowgirls 8 | Cowgirls In Style | spring 2013

35

• • • •

Summer Getaways Cowgirls Nostalgia Planning your Summer Concerts And More...

Available the end of June 2013

60 cowgirls social 62 HOrse training 1o1 64 rodeo queens corner Royalty News Meet 2013 Miss Rodeo America Chenae Shiner 66 around the barrel Nicole Riggle

68 The western wanderer Bonnie Springs, Nevada 70 barn boutique 72 Cowgirls Getaway

COWGIRLS In Style | Mail Room

We Love Our Readers...

See what our readers are saying about Cowgirls In Style magazine!

Thank you!

Thank you so much for making me the face of Queen’s Corner!

How fun and what a compliment this is to be a part of this great magazine!... ~Brooke Owen Miss Rodeo Illinois 2011

I Feel very blessed and thankful!

I am so honored & excited to be featured in the Winter Edition of Cowgirls In Style Magazine!!

I was signing copies of the magazine today to send to some family members & my horse Pistol was obviously very excited to browse through the pages! ;) Thank you Cowgirls In Style for publishing us. We feel so very blessed & thankful! ~Amanda Ionta

Thank you for Cowgirls In Style Magazine Thank you for the Cowgirls In Style Magazine during the Miss Rodeo America Pageant! It was a great week which would not be possible without everyone’s support. ~Courtney Peterson

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Contact Us! Email the editor at:

editor@cowgirlsinstyle.com

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advertising@cowgirlsinstyle.com

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General Information:

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www.cowgirlsinstyle.com | editor@cowgirlsinstyle.com

from the editor...

COWGI R LS Spring 2013

In Style

A Cowgirl’s Voice...

Magazine

Susan Gentry Founder Editor-In-Chief

Jeannie Flynn Assistant Editor Robert Gentry Assistant Editor Left: Susie Luchsinger Right: Susan Gentry CIS Editor-In-Chief

W

e are talking everything weddings in this issue and are excited to be featuring Alexandra Chavez on our cover with a cover story spread and her sister Nicole Riggle in our “Around the Barrel” section.

Alexandra is the wife of Major League Baseball player, Eric Chavez and is quickly becoming one of the best in her field of horse showmanship.

We are also featuring some highlights from our NFR trip in Las Vegas! We had so much fun meeting so many of our readers, and advertisers! Another treat for me was to meet Reba McEntire’s sister, Susie Luchsinger. She performed on the Cowboy Marketplace stage. What a gracious lady and a gorgeous voice.

I want to let our readers know how much we appreciate you! We came up with the idea of Cowgirls In Style magazine a few years ago and wanted to create a publication that not only shows the latest fashions for the Cowgirl, but gave her a voice. We love including women around the country who love the Cowgirl lifestyle.

We want it to be a unique and personal magazine for you that other magazines do not match. We are excited for the future and are thankful that you are on that journey with us.

Contributors Cort Flynn Jeannie Flynn Devanie Gentry Genevieve Spering Dana Hokana Photography Contributors Laura McClure Art/Production/Layout Country Productions Advertising Quinton Charles Send editorial submissions to: editor@cowgirlsinstyle.com For Advertising: advertising@cowgirlsinstyle.com Country Productions P.O. Box 841 Washington, UT 84780 Email: info@cowgirlsinstyle.com

See you all on the trail!

Susie

Susan Gentry Editor-In-Chief 10 | Cowgirls In Style | spring 2013

Copyright 2013 Country Productions/Cowgirls In Style Magazine. Cowgirls In Style does not assume liability for articles, products or services advertised within.

Editor’s Picks Sometimes bigger is better – and sometimes it isn’t. Even here in Texas we understand that fact. If you work from a small desk or table, or if you’re on the road a lot, then you still need a great note pad—you just want one with smaller dimensions that’s easier to fit into a limited space. Plus you are buying American-made products.

No problem; meet the small leather notepad from South Texas Saddelry, with the same rugged, no-nonsense features as their larger version, just scaled down a bit to fit your needs. Choose from three rich color schemes: chestnut, russet, or chocolate. We’ll even monogram up to three initials if you’d like, in a Western stamp—no extra charge.

Order your small leather notepad today at www.SouthTexasSaddlery.com

Spring 2013

| www.CowgirlsInStyle.com

| 11

e -Cowgirl Cowgirl Blogger |Devanie Gentry

Crafty Texas Girls www.CraftyTexasGirls.com Crafty Texas Girls is a popular blog that focuses on home decor, family and all things crafty.

her own clothing and accessory line at Dallas Market, Samantha also shares her secrets for successfully running a small business while balancing motherhood and creating a beautiful home.

Crafty Texas Girls is an uplifting site that encourages, inspires, and brings out the creativity in every woman. See more at craftytexasgirls.com

I

bumped into this blog while I was surfing the net and found it to be very unique and informative. I was intrigued by the name, “Crafty Texas Girls” and wanted to learn more!

The site is for the woman who wants to do it all. Samantha Conner, the crafty mastermind behind the site, blogs about home décor, DIY projects, crafts for kids, recipes, and creativity. After launching

12 | Cowgirls In Style | Spring 2013

Samantha Conner (above) the crafty mastermind behind Crafty Texas Girls.

Beauty Barn

Spring Beauty Tips Pastels will always be in for Spring, but why not try a pop of bright red or pink lipstick or bright blue nail polish ?

Powders Light and natural powders are what’s in this Spring.

f

Red Lipstick You thought everything was pastels this season? Wrong!

Bright red lipsticks are in for Spring, so along with your soft pinks and natural lipsticks, include a red that will compliment your skin tone.

f

Thick Brows are in!

If you are famous for over plucking your eyebrows, stop right now. Very skinny eyebrows are out and thick eyebrows are in this spring season. Allow your eyebrows to grow out a little bit so that they frame your face nicely. If they are a little sparse, fill them in with an eyebrow pencil that matches your natural hair color.

f

16 | Cowgirls In Style

| spring 2013

f

Body Lotion With the smell of vanilla, amber and sandalwood, this lotion is a refreshing fragrance for spring and wonderful way to get your smooth skin back after a long winter. www.bodyandbath.com

Nude Nails A soft natural color is in for nails this spring. Go with a soft nude color that bring out a healthy nail.

The Cowboy Rides Away...

By: Bobby Joe Gentry

George Strait says goodbye to his fans in his “Cowboy Rides Away” tour.

CIS Magazine was there!

Subscribe at: www.cowgirlsinstyle.com/subscribe.html

18 | Cowgirls In Style | spring 2013

Subscribe at: www.cowgirlsinstyle.com/subscribe.html

For more information on the “Cowboy Rides Away” Tour, go to www.GeorgeStrait.com

www.RodeoEnvy.com Spring 2013 | www.CowgirlsInStyle.com

| 19

In Fashion

Cowgirls

Fashion Forecast Spring 2013

Written By Devanie Gentry

Soft and bright colors are in for spring so don’t be afraid to go bold...

F

inally the clouds break, the flowers start to bloom and the snow is gone for the season. Spring is back again, and you want to make sure you are styled for the season.

Now that you don’t have oversized coats and heavy winter boots to hide yourself in, you may have to reassess what it’s like for your clothing and accessories to be front and center all of a sudden. Spring is your chance to shine with your clothing, makeup and accessories. So, what should we all be looking for this spring? What wardrobe pieces can carry over into the new season?

Even though pastel colors will always be in style for spring, this year you can also expect deep reds, brilliant blues, and bright limes and yellows. Not only will you see deep reds in fashion, but also in lipsticks and nail polish.

Even though pastel colors will always be in style for spring, this year you can also expect deep reds, brilliant blues, and bright limes and yellows.

20 | Cowgirls In Style | Spring 2013

Step out and try something bold this Spring. Go with the bright reds, deep blues and bright greens and yellows.

Also look for chunky jewelry to be in for spring. Layer it with turquoise stones and various silvers. Necklaces, bracelets and rings are on the chunky side.

Remember with whatever outfit you decide to put together this spring, don’t forget to accessorize. Jewelry, handbags and your favorite boots will finish off the look.

Subscribe!

www.CowgirlsInStyle.com

fall 2012 | www.CowgirlsInStyle.com

| 21

In Fashion

Latest Cowgirl From the BIGGEST Cowgirl Brands www.cowgirltuffco.com

S00369: Exclusive Cowgirl Tuff paisley design done up with silver foil and crystals. Dolman sleeves finish out the flowy movement of this tee. Ladies fit.

MSRP $45.00

Jazzy II: Medium wash with light distressing, sequin fabric back pockets, antique silver rivets and thick white stitching.

MSRP $95.99

Cowgirl Tuff for Spring!

Cowgirls In Style Pick Crosses Shimmer Short: MSRP $58.99 S00358: Let your wild side run free with this dark gray tank.

The blackout black cross has a suede finish with tiny silver studs.

MSRP $30.00

22 | Cowgirls In Style | spring 2013

Our pick is the Women’s coral lightweight fleece short with drawstring waistband and brown Cowgirl Tuff Company print design down the side.

www.cowgirltuffco.com

Fashions...

In Fashion

Get Your Cowgirl On... www.wranglerwestern.com

Wrangler® Premium Patch® Short With Booty Up® Technology - Sits At Hip Aqua

Holly Berry 3/4 Sleeve Empire Waist Dress Color: Holly Berry (LWD270R) Scoop Ruffle Neck. 3/4 Sleeve Dress with Embroidery at Neck, Sleeves and Hem. Empire Waist with Self Fabric Tie. 100% Rayon Lawn.

Limeade Short Sleeve Tee Color: Limeade (LJK567G) Rock 47™ Collection. Novelty Tee with Burnout Screenprint Front/Back Floral Design.

Cowgirls In Style Pick Pink/Black Chiffon Wrangler® Rock 47™ Collection.

Tie and Beads at Neckline.

Cinched Waist and Cuffs. All Over Print

www.wranglerwestern.com

Aura From The Women At Wrangler Instantly Slimming Capri .

Color: EP Wash (WUT34EP) Look instantly slimmer as soon as you try on these capris from Aura from the Women at Wrangler. They are designed to flatter.

We recommend you try a size smaller than your normal size. Tummy control panel.

Spring 2013 | www.CowgirlsInStyle.com

| 23

In Fashion

More

Cowgirl

Fashions... www.Cavenders.com LJ5661K: Rock 47 by Wrangler Pink with Silver Fleur de Lis Burnout Long Sleeve Western Shirt ($54.00)

AR0011092: Ariat Paloma Sequoia Bark with Scrolling & Studs Snip Toe Western Boot ($259.99)

PC518CCH: Pink Cattlelac Brown & Turquoise Screenprint Embroidery V-Neck 3/4 Sleeves Dress ($54.00)

This cool sweater knit tank by Vintage Havana is ivory with a racerback. Not lined - tank not included.

Hand wash.

60% Cotton / 40% Polyester. Perfect for jeans and shorts!

06958L: M&F Western Products Black & Silver Zebra w/ Hot Pink Bling Cross iPhone 4 Case ($15.00)

Cowgirls In Style Pick Our pick is the Ocean Drive® Women’s Pink Paisley Print Chiffon High-Low Cami Dress

www.cavenders.com

24 | Cowgirls In Style | Spring 2013

Rodeo Runway

Spring Fashion Photographed by: Laura McClure Accssssories by Brit West Model: Taci Shaffer

26 | Cowgirls In Style | Spring 2013

Boots by Born Boots www.bornshoes.com Saddle Pack Vest, Jacket and Leather Gauchos by DDRanch www.ddranchwear.com

Top is Marrika Nakk and the skirt is Vintage Collection Photographed by: Laura McClure Model: Amanda Ionta

Photo by: Laura McClure www.cowgirlglitterati.com Summer Fall 2012 2012| www.CowgirlsInStyle.com | www.CowgirlsInStyle.com | |2727

Chunky Jewelry by Brit West www.BritWest.com Photographed by: Laura McClure Model: Taci Shaffer 28 | Cowgirls In Style | Spring Fall 2012 2013

Chunky Jewelry by Brit West www.BritWest.com Photographed by: Laura McClure Model: Taci Shaffer

By Genevieve Marie

Spirit of a Cowgirl Country Bridal and Spring Fashion 101 Subscribe at: www.cowgirlsinstyle.com/ subscribe.html

30 | Cowgirls In Style | Spring 2013

Subscribe at: www.cowgirlsinstyle.com/subscribe.html

Spring 2013 | www.CowgirlsInStyle.com

| 31

Engagement news Shea

& Tyson

“Where I had originally planned to propose was closed off, I thought about jumping the fence and doing it anyway...”

-Tyson Durfey

Top Left: Ty and Shea Middle: Shea’s engagement ring Right: Shea on the CMT red carpet Opposite Page: Ty competing as WNFR tie-down roper. Bottom Right: Ty and Shea 32 | Cowgirls In Style | Spring 2013

www.cowgirlsi

Country Music Artist and Model, Shea Fisher and WNFR Tie-down Roper, Tyson Durfey share their engagement news with CIS Magazine!

Subscribe at: instyle.com/subscribe.html

Spring 2013 | www.CowgirlsInStyle.com

| 33

D Bar D Photography Photographer : Dianna Drollette

Specializing in Families, Weddings, Seniors, Couples and Rodeos.

435-754-6267

34 | Cowgirls In Style | winter 2013

Country Bridal

guide

Photo by: D Bar D Photography Bride: Sarah Stephan

Winter 2013 | www.CowgirlsInStyle.com

| 35

Match your flowers with your boots!

Photo by: D Bar D Photography Bride: Sarah Stephan

38 | Cowgirls In Style | winter 2013

wedding colors

Lipstick www.Revlon.com

Old Gringo Boots www.Allensboots.com

Bridesmaid Dress www.Dessy.com

Flower Girl Boots www.stetson.com Tangerine Orange beads Cluster bracelet www.fashionjewelryforeveryone.com

Tangerine Tangerines and Oranges are one of the top colors of the season for weddings. Boots in browns and oranges and lip gloss in an orange/peach tint is the perfect way to finish off the look. spring 2013 | www.CowgirlsInStyle.com

| 37

wedding colors Berry Nail Polish www.Allure.com

WineBerry Boots www.stetson.com

Flower Girl Boots www.stetson.com

Bridesmaid Dress www.Dessy.com

WineBerry Berry and Pinks add that burst of color to any wedding. Boots in wine or berry set off a classic look of color. Don’t forget the nail polish and flowers in various pinks to bring it all together.

38 | Cowgirls In Style | Spring 2013

wedding colors

Old Gringo Boots www.Allensboots.com

Soft Natural Nails www.sallyhansen.com Bridesmaid Dress www.Dessy.com Flower Girl Boots www.stetson.com

Pearl Necklace Set www.cowbootyfashions.com

Aqua Aqua’s

add that feminine touch to any wedding. Boots in aqua and brown and finish it off with a pearl necklace will bring a soft touch to an elegant wedding. spring 2013 | www.CowgirlsInStyle.com

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real life country weddings

Melissa & Drew Photos By: Wayne Simpson Photography Wedding Colors?

Cobalt blue and yellow. We had cobalt blue bridesmaid dresses and groomsmen vests/ties. The flowers were bright yellow sunflowers mixed with wheat that we handpicked from our own fields.

How did he propose?

Drew suggested that we take a quick trip to Banff to do a bit of shopping and touring around. We were about to leave Banff on November 6th, 2011 and Drew decided to stop in at the Banff Springs Hotel. We pulled up to the waterfall and he suggested that we get out and go for a bit of a walk. It was a beautiful, sunny day (but a bit chilly) and the waterfall was partially frozen and looked incredible. We walked up the hill a little ways to a quiet bench by the falls. Drew began to talk about our past years together and the bright future ahead. He said he could not imagine spending the rest of his life with anyone but me. It was at that moment he pulled the ring out of his jacket and asked me to marry him. Of course, I said yes :) Location of wedding?

The ceremony was held at the Riverview Bed & Breakfast and the reception/dance was held at the DeWinton Community Hall (Both locations are near my family’s farm and near Okotoks, Alberta) Favorite Moment?

Since our wedding ceremony was at 4:30 pm and the reception 40 | Cowgirls In Style | Spring 2013

followed immediately after, we ended up doing our formal photos before the actual ceremony. I was hesitant to do this at first (because I did not want to see each other before the ceremony) but in the end I am so glad that we did because the “first look” was my favorite part of the entire day. I had arranged to meet Drew at an abandoned old barn close to my parents’ farm. Drew was standing at one end of the barn facing away from me and I walked through the barn quietly and tapped him on the shoulder. He turned around and we both got to see each other for the first time that day. It was a beautiful and emotional moment shared by just the two of us that I will always treasure close to my heart. It was a hectic day and it truly did go by in the blink of an eye, but those 10 minutes alone with Drew in front of the barn made time stand still.

Your Song? “Tougher Than The Rest” Chris LeDoux Honeymoon destination? We both have very busy jobs that don’t allow time off during the summer so we really have not gone on a honeymoon yet. We were very fortunate, however, to go on a pre-wedding moon to Australia before we got married. Drew and I took a month off in January/February 2011 prior to the wedding and had some incredible adventures and made some wonderful memories.

Kissing Booth

I feel so very blessed to have found the one that makes my heart smile every day. Drew has always seen the best in me from the moment we met and has always encouraged me to chase my dreams. He is my best friend and one of my biggest supporters. Drew and I met during the Calgary Bull Sale at Ranchman’s through a mutual friend. I had just returned home after spending a year working on cattle stations in Outback Australia. Drew was fitting bulls and was persistent in his quest to snag a date with me. The first date was good but it wasn’t until the second date that I started to realize that he could be my forever. Drew says that he knew from the moment he saw me that he wanted to spend the rest of his life with me. We planned our wedding with a theme that suited the both of us, “Rustic Elegance”.

We wanted to celebrate our future with each other in a setting that spoke to our agricultural roots and one that involved our family and friends. We enjoy the outdoors, helping on the farm, skiing, travelling, road trips, cattle, horses and anything that gives us a chance to be together.

Winter 2013 | www.CowgirlsInStyle.com

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real life country weddings

Jessi & John Photos by: Kristen Evensen Wedding Colors: Turquoise, brown and white Location: Riverton, WY Honeymoon Destination: They have yet to go

John and Jessi Franzen got married on their ranch in Riverton, Wyoming on September 22, 2012. They had a simple, “Do It Yourself,” complete, country wedding.

The ceremony took place in the field behind their house along a row of trees, with the reception following in the same location. The groomsmen rode horseback from the corrals to the ceremony in a line, with the groom in the middle. The maids of honor, bridesmaids, flower girl and ring bearer came from the opposite direction in a wagon and team of horses. After the guys tied their horses to the hitching rail, they met their ladies as they were coming off the wagon to walk down the aisle together.

The flower girl didn’t drop petals, but instead carried John and Jessi’s dog, Tipper, down the isle so she could be part of the ceremony as well. Jessi and her dad came from the distance in an old doctor’s 42 | Cowgirls In Style | Spring 2013

buggy and horse. Jessi’s uncle was their pastor for the ceremony. Her sister and grandpa both sang a song, and all of their friends and family were there to witness the bond and new life they were about to start together.

With trees as the backdrop, the sun setting, and amazing weather, it couldn’t have been a more perfect day.

For the reception, they had barbecue brisket and neighbors brought salads. They danced all night, had an open bar and everyone fit under one tent to have a good time until the sun came up!

John is a professional steer wrestler and also works for his parents, Hank and Lori Franzen, who own Powder River Rodeo Company.

Jessi is the owner and designer of Outhouse Jewels and also works for his family’s business as a timer and secretary. Her parents are Rusty and Mary Jane Fieldgrove. They have yet to go on a honeymoon because soon after the wedding they both had to go to work at the rodeos and it hasn’t slowed down since.

real life country weddings

Kelsea & Hansen Photos By: Tuff Enuff Photos by Adeline Hyatt Wedding Colors: Truffle satin brown for the bridesmaids and groomsmen wore a natural colored cinch button up. Flowers were mainly sunflowers, white and yellow roses, daisies etc Location: Wyoming Hereford Ranch, Cheyenne, WY Hansen and Kelsea were married on June 30th, 2012 at the beautiful Wyoming Hereford Ranch in Cheyenne, Wyoming. It was a very simple, small wedding, but exactly everything they had hoped for.

“We had our ceremony on a nice grassy area next to a creek that runs through the ranch. Our reception was held in the old salebarn, where cow sales had been held and put on by the ranch for many years. Our dance floor was the good, old fashioned, hard wood floor that had been built on top of the old sale ring. The old bleachers still remained and provided extra seating for all the guests. The band was amazing, put on by Westbound 40 out of Laramie, Wyoming. Ben Jones an incredibly talented college friend of mine who I met when I attended the University of Wyoming. The large barn doors were opened, near by in the corrals the horses grazed and added to the wonderful western atmosphere.

44 | Cowgirls In Style | Spring 2013

Our decorations and center pieces were simply, like all weddings, on a budget. However, they were perfect. Mason jars wrapped with beautiful ribbon, hemp twine, and each had an array of gorgeous sunflowers that brightened up the barn. The support beams throughout the barn were wrapped with light and more color coordinated ribbon.

Beverages were beer, wine, ice tea, lemonade, soda and water. The kegs and sodas were served over ice in the old feed wheelbarrows and were placed throughout the barn. Food at the wedding was provided

by Pioneer BBQ out of Cheyenne, Wyoming and they did a wonderful job of getting everyone fed with a delicious meal of pulled pork, roast beef, beans and all the good BBQ fixings.

Our honeymoon destination was to go to Yellowstone National Park, but the ranch and farm delayed our adventures until a later date. We did however get a chance to make it down to Mexico. Being my first time, I thoroughly enjoyed it, but I still insist on Yellowstone as being our honeymoon trip :) We are now back up in Torrington, Wyoming about to start the busiest time of year with calving season, then on to branding, summer pasture, followed by the warm days of farming.

But we wouldn’t have it any other way and plan to live happily ever after.”

real life country weddings

Jamie & Chris Photos By: Maegan Puetz Wedding Colors: Turquoise, corral, and sunflowers for the flowers Location: Callisburg, TX Honeymoon Destination: Broken Bow/Beavers Bend, Oklahoma in a Honeymoon log cabin in the Mountains over looking Broken Bow Lake.

In a small Texas high school 13 years ago, I was 16 years old and had my first boyfriend, my first love. This boy’s name was Chris Westbrook, and he was really the sweetest boy ever. Made you feel special for being you. We dated for 2 years and were so happy. I’ve never laughed like that before. Mom use to say “No boys ever made you smile like him Jamie.” When he graduated high school his dream was to be a Marine and to defend our Country, and his dream came true. He was to move to Callifornia that summer. He asked me if I would please move with him, and marry him. I was 18 years old, scared to leave my small town, and my close family, so very sadly I said no. We then separated, he went his way with new adventures, and I stayed home doing the same thing everyday. Turns out I married a man named Chris, but not THE CHRIS. As time went on, this marriage did not work out. After my divorce, I NEVER ONCE stopped thinking about Chris Westbrook, the 46 | Cowgirls In Style | Spring 2013

Marine. 9-1-1 hit in the middle of those years, and all I did was worry for him. I always wondered how he was, and if he was thinking of me too. I wanted so badly to reach out for help, to reach out to him. But I was always scared he had found someone else, like I had.

After my divorce was final, I noticed on Facebook that he was there!

Chris Westbrook was right in front of me, well his picture was. He was holding up a fish in his picture. I always liked to fish... I now was divorced, back living with my parents, with my baby girl. My parents were amazing to us. They helped me in any way they could and I told them my situation. One day I worked up the courage to message Westbrook (I call him that since the other was Chris too), and let him know how I was... He messaged me back!

Chris had also been through a divorce. after 13 years of wondering, searching, praying, and day dreaming he told me three little words again, “I love you.” I never once in a million years would have thought after ALL I had been through, 13 years gone, he could come right back into my life like he had never left. He had seen so much, served 5 tours in the Marine Corps, and was now a very fine Marine. No longer a young Marine, but a very skilled, professional, well decorated Marine in charge of a large number of young Marines. Everyday that goes by now and I see his face come home with uniform on, I have never been more proud to be a Marine wife, never been more happy than I am every single day.

Honeymoon log cabin in Broken Bow/ Beavers Bend, Oklahoma

Honeymoon log cabin in Broken Bow/Beavers Bend, Oklahoma spring 2013 | www.CowgirlsInStyle.com

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Horseback Weddings Written By: Candy Yow Photo by: Trista Wilson

Subscribe at: www.cowgirlsinstyle.com/subscribe.html

48 | Cowgirls In Style | Spring 2013

Cowgirl EntrEpreneur

Th is i Yo s ur S tor

y

advertising@cowgirlsinstyle.com

Alexandra Chavez

Photos by: ImpulsePhotographyMB.com

The talented and beautiful wife of Major League baseball player, Eric Chavez has found her way in the Major Leagues of Quarter Horse Showmanship.

Alex talks about horses, family and fashion...

Alex and Beautiful Maiden

Alex usually rides at least 3 times a week when she is at home. At a show, she will ride multiple times a day to prepare herself and horse for a class.

52 | Cowgirls In Style | Spring 2013

Alex sporting the Arizona Diamondbacks cap. Husband, Eric Chavez, former NY Yankee baseball player recently signed with the Photo by: Clark Marten Photography Arizona Diamondbacks.

Courtesy of Montana Silversmiths Winter 2013 | www.CowgirlsInStyle.com

| 49

R

ising quickly as one of the top competitors in the Quarter Horse industry, Alex Chavez tells CIS Magazine about her love of horses, family and fashion.

By: Susan Gentry Photos By: ImpulsePhotographyMB.com

Subscribe at: www.cowgirlsinstyle.com/subscribe.html

54 | Cowgirls In Style | Spring 2013

Back left: Eric, Alex Front: Diego, Cruz and Dolce

10 years of marriage to Major League baseball player, eric chavez, three kids and a barn full of horses...

Spring 2013 | www.CowgirlsInStyle.com

| 55

The Chavez children from left to right. Daughter Dolce, sons, Cruz and Diego.

“I love fashion.

A few years ago, before the American Quarter Horse Congress, my mother and i flew to Paris for fashion week.”

-Alex Chavez

Alex wearing her Plaula’s Place Jacket, that she helped design.

56 | Cowgirls In Style | Spring 2013

Subscribe at: www.cowgirlsinstyle.com/subscribe.html Read about Alex’s sister Nicole Riggle, in our “Around the Barrel” section on page 66.

Right: Alex with sister Nicole Riggle on the left

Missy Whitfield Photo by: MW Photography

Jessica Phelps Photo by April Sykes

Heather Stein

Photo by: Simply Charming Photography

Kristen Smith Photo by Kate Williams

Celebrating Cowgirls...

Melinda Berg From Montana

facebook.com/cowgirlsinstyle

More Information...

We’re celebrating Cowgirls! “LIKE” us on Facebook to be a part of it all!

Email your photos and we might select you! info@cowgirlsinstyle.com

58 | Cowgirls In Style | Srping 2013

H

20 Acre Lots Starting at only $169,000!

armony Mountain Ranch represents a truly unique opportunity to own a mountainside lot in one of the most picturesque and desirable areas of the West. With its superb location just 40 minutes north of St. George, UT in the heart of “Color Country” the Ranch has access to over 40 national and state parks and points of interest within a three-hour drive. Its clever layout gives every lot a spectacular view while maintaining a private and cozy

atmosphere. Our superb amenity package and proximity to services provides residents the perfect mountain getaway.

Location: Iron County, Utah (between St. George and Cedar City 2 hours north of Las Vegas) Water: Adequate water rights available, property to be serviced by private water system, no well needed. Utilities: Gas, electric, water, telephone, and high speed internet. Equestrian Facility, trail system to federal land, picnic/family area and tennis courts. protective CC&R’s.

20 Acre Lots Starting at $169,000!

State of the art Equestrian Center with Clubhouse and Modern Barn.

Beautiful views in all directions...

A unique opportunity to own a mountainside lot in one of the most picturesque and desirable areas of the West.

Own a piece of www.HarmonyMountainRanch.com Contact: Donna Christensen ERA Realty Center 259 Cedar West City, 200 UT North (435) 586-2777 Office www.HarmonyMountainRanch.com

Cowgirl’s Social NFR Booth Highlights !

Left: Country Music Artist Joe Nichols Right: CIS Editor Devanie Gentry

Left: CIS Editor Devanie Gentry Right: Miss Rodeo Illinois 2011 Brooke Owen

Left: Country Music Artist and model, Shea Fisher Right: CIS Editor-In-Chief Susan Gentry

Left: NFR Roper Colby Lovell Right: CIS Editor Devanie Gentry

Cowgirl’s Social Some fun photos since our last issue...

2012 MRA Queen, McKenzie Carr signing autographs in the CIS Magazine booth

Model, Amanda Ionta showing her horse her magazine spread.

Set up crew for the CIS Magazine booth in Vegas for the NFR. Quinn, Brandon and Garrett. Thanks boys!

Model, Amanda Ionta’s horse looking at her magazine spread

Horse Training 101

By Dana Hokana

Ten Simple Tips to Transition Your Horse from the Snaffle to the Bridle!

62 | Cowgirls In Style | Srping 2013

Subscribe at: www.cowgirlsinstyle.com/subscribe.htm

Dana Hokana is one of the top female trainers in the Quarter Horse industry.

w w w. h o k a n a . c o m Spring 2013 | www.CowgirlsInStyle.com

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Meet Miss Rodeo America 2013, Chenae Shiner!

C

henae Shiner of Roosevelt, Utah reigns as Miss Rodeo America 2013. She received the crown on December 12, 2012 at the conclusion of the week-long pageant held in Las Vegas, Nevada at the MGM Grand Hotel & Casino in conjunction with the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo. Chenae will travel more than 100,000 miles during her reign representing Miss Rodeo America, Inc. and the Professional Rodeo Cowboy’s Association.

“For me, queens embrace the spirit of rodeo, never hesitating to turn a spectator into a true fan.” Shiner said. “To represent this rodeo family as an ambassador would be my greatest honor.”

Chenae obtained an Associates Degree from Utah State University and is currently pursuing a Bachelors Degree in Radiologic Sciences with a special emphasis in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Computed Tomography (CT). She will be taking time out from her studies at Weber State University to reign as the “First Lady of Professional Rodeo.” She will be able to use the $22,500 in scholarships she was awarded as Miss Rodeo America from the Miss Rodeo America Scholarship Foundation to help further her educational goals.

As a WPRA card holder, Chenae proudly says that rodeo is her favorite sport! She truly feels at home on their family ranch where branding or herding 600 head of cattle can’t be beat! She also enjoys lake-surfing, wakeboarding, cycling, running, hiking and snow skiing. She can’t wait to travel across the country and her home state promoting the Miss Rodeo America organization as well as our great sponsors!

Photos and information provided by the Miss Rodeo America Pageant. www.missrodeoamerica.com 64 | Cowgirls In Style | Srping 2013

Chenae 2013 Shiner Miss Rodeo America

Around the Barrel

e l o c Ni ggle Ri with

ale,

sd Scott : e t a St City/ l Racer e r Ba r

AZ

By: CIS Magazine Photos by: ImpulsePhotographyMB.com

Subs www.cowgirlsinsty

scribe at: yle.com/subscribe.html

Keep your eye on Nikki as she works on her goal of reaching the NFR.

The Western Wanderer In Bonnie Springs, Nevada Written By: Cort Flynn

In Bonnie Springs, all of the buildings are authentic old west buildings moved onto the site. The springs however have historical significance as they are located on the Old Spanish Trail where even John C. Fremont stopped on one of his treks west...

W

hile wandering through Nevada we came upon a very special discovery, LAS VEGAS. You say, now wait a minute!

The lights, the glitter, the extravagance—that is not what the Western Wanderer is about. Well, pardners, head west; west of Las Vegas beyond the city lights and onto a scenic drive with rugged mountain views and wandering, wild burros along the roadside and you find the special place. It is called Bonnie Springs.

68 | Cowgirls In Style | Spring 2013

This is a fun place so bring the kids and grand kids. It has shoot-outs in the streets and from the rooftops, hangings in the town square (watch out you may get involved!)

If any of you remember the feel of the old Knotts Berry Farm back in the ‘50s when it was mainly an old western village, Bonnie Springs will remind of that. It is not a true ghost town, but all the buildings are authentic old west buildings moved onto the site. The springs however have historical significance as they are located on the Old Spanish Trail where even John C. Fremont stopped on one of his treks west.

This is a fun place so bring the kids and grand kids. It has shoot-outs in the streets and from the rooftops, hangings in the town square (watch out you may get involved!) and a melodrama show is put on several times a day. There is also a great petting zoo with some pretty cool animals and you can take a ride on the train.

You will enjoy touring the buildings too, which include an old west-themed wax museum. Watch out for the ghosts, too! Many have claimed to have encountered ghosts, voices, shadows and moving objects around the town. Check out the playground whirly gig. It has been seen spinning on its own as if unseen children have returned to play on it. Bonnie Springs was even featured in one episode of Ghost Adventures.

The admission fee is very reasonable and includes all the activities except for horseback riding which is a separate charge.

Also there is a good restaurant on the sight which overlooks a pond full of ducks and turtles.

We will be watching for you along the skyline. spring 2013 | www.CowgirlsInStyle.com

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The Barn Boutique The Barn Boutique Welcome to

where you can advertise your business at a very affordable price. Contact us today for pricing! advertising@cowgirlsinstyle.com

70 | Cowgirls In Style | winter 2013

• The Cowgirls Shopping Mall

spring 2013 | www.CowgirlsInStyle.com

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Cowgirl Getaway

The Cowgirls

Cowgirls Getaway Location: Las Vegas, Nevada The Getaway: The National Finals Rodeo

Left to Right: Kayla, Roni, and Cheyenne By : Cheyenne Wilson

and Miss Rodeo America Pageant What We Learned: Even though you can have as much fun as possible on an incredible vacation, nothing is more important than family and friends.

What We Did...

W

ho loves the bright lights of Las Vegas and the excitement of the National Finals Rodeo? Cowgirl Swank…. that’s who! We try to make it a yearly trip to the fastpaced city and what better time to do it than when the city is overrun by cowgirls and cowboys!

We arrived on the afternoon of the first day and after checking into our hotel it was off to the Thomas & Mack to watch the best 10 days of rodeo action there is! We were there rooting for friends, neighbors, and our Cowgirl Swank sponsored cowgirl, Nikki Steffes. The night was full of action and good times. Afterwards, it was back to the Gold Buckle Zone at the MGM Grand.

Nothing better than staying where the action is! We managed to run down Trevor Brazile for an autograph as well as Fred Whitfield and Billy Etbauer!

Friday morning we hit the shopping scene pretty hard by checking out the vendors set up at Mandalay Bay. We then hurried on over to the Golden Nugget so we could get autographs from the top 15 barrel racers in the world.

What a thrill and very inspirational! We then decided to head to the NRS Experience set up right near the MGM Grand. Our cart was full by the time we reached the check out lane….they have some GREAT stuff there and it’s nice because it’s close to our room so we don’t have to lug it all around town with us! We then headed off to the Thomas & Mack once again. We started the night off by enjoying some music and beverages at the cowboy bar set up inside. Then we headed in to cheer for our favorites again. The night, which seemed to go on forever, was ended at the Gold Buckle Zone once again.

Saturday morning we hit the NRS Experience once again (since we didn’t get enough the first time) and then got ready to watch one of the main reasons we came to Las Vegas…..the Miss Rodeo America fashion show. How awesome it was to see Cowgirl Swank caps on the stage once again! We enjoyed a wonderful lunch and fantastic company at our table while Forum Shops and to look around. We watched the NFR’s live feed at Caesar’s. We were so happy that Mary Walker won the round again that we decided to head to the South Point to the Gold Buckle Ceremony. It truly is something

72 | Cowgirls In Style | Spring 2013

Trevor Brazile! One of our first and best surprise celebrity encounters!

Even Stran Smith is a Swank Fan! :)

to be seen. Mary was amazing and truly humble. There were lots of hugs and tears on stage for her. It’s a great feeling watching someone accomplish something who has overcome a lot of obstacles.

It was great seeing the cowboys and Mary get their buckles and thank those who have helped them along the way. We then got the surprise of our lives when Clif Cooper was accepting his buckle.

Who walks onto the stage, but George Strait!! Unbelievable!!!!!!!

We had an incredible time and will never forget our experience!

Sunday morning and our last full day in the city was one filled with shopping. We shopped over half a day at Cowboy Christmas at the Las Vegas Convention Center. What an amazing place! We were able to visit with Charmayne James and get our picture with her.

It’s great how the cowboys and cowgirls make themselves accessible to their fans. We really enjoyed that aspect a lot!

Then, we headed over to the Sands’ Cowboy Marketplace to complete the day. Afterwards, we headed to dinner. I wanted to reward my team for a very successful year with some yummy eats. We ended up going to a seafood buffet. The food was amazing! We were just finishing up when I got a call from my husband telling me that my four-year-old son, Stone, had broken his arm badly and they were en route to the hospital 100 miles away. My fun vacation soon took a downward turn and from there it was all worry and some tears. I am thankful for my friends who were with me and for our friends who were there for my husband and my son.

They made an almost unbearable situation bearable. We flew out the next morning and I arrived at the hospital after my little boy went through surgery. He was awake and ready to see his mom and I was certainly ready to see him! Three pins later and a cast….he was a real trooper. I’m happy to report that he has healed well and all is pretty good.

As for our trip to Vegas…..it was incredible and a true Cowgirl Getaway if I ever had one!

Our celebration seafood dinner for hitting 20,000 Facebook Fans!

Got in line early at the NRS Experience for free Tin Haul Flip Flops!

And then we saw King George..... what an amazing night!

The big fight was on at our hotel!

Loved getting autographs from the Top 15 Barrel Racers!

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