CO2 – carbon dioxide – laser resurfacing uses targeted beams of light to remove the superficial layer of your skin. This type of laser treatment can remove skin cancer, address cosmetic skin issues, such as fine or keep lines, wrinkles and acne scars; and treat areas of skin discoloration, like sunspots or age spots.
The professional team at Allen Dental Center is like a family. We genuinely care about taking care of our patients, and we are able to provide them with virtually any dental procedure right here in our office. You can be confident you will receive the highest quality care from our knowledgeabe, experienced, and gentle dentists.
Allen Dental Center is ecstatic to announce that we are expanding our office in an effort to accommodate and serve a greater number of patients. Stay tuned for updates!
OVER 50 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE. ALL OF YOUR DENTAL CARE IN ONE PLACE FRUSTRATED WITH YOUR TEETH? WE HAVE A SOLUTION!
Let’s Hear It for the Ladies!
As we celebrate the Ladies Issue of City Lifestyle, I am filled with immense pride as we shine a spotlight on the incredible women who continue to break barriers, inspire, and build thriving businesses in our community. This issue is a tribute to the many women who balance multiple roles with grace and determination—wives, mothers, daughters, and business professionals, all working tirelessly to create a legacy of success and empowerment.
In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to forget the sheer strength it takes to juggle the demands of family, work, and self-care. Whether you’re raising children, supporting your partner, or leading a team, the art of balancing these responsibilities is no small feat. But it is a testament to the resilience, creativity, and passion that women bring to everything they do.
Supporting women-owned businesses isn’t just a trend—it’s a powerful movement. It’s about creating opportunities for growth, fostering innovation, and championing the values of equality, integrity, and community. As consumers, we can make a real difference by shopping with intention and encouraging the women around us who are paving the way in their respective industries. Their success not only benefits their families, employees, and clients but contributes to the empowerment of future generations of women.
As someone who balances multiple roles—wife, mother, and business professional—I understand the challenges that come with it. The moments of doubt, the endless to-do lists, and the sacrifices made behind the scenes. But through it all, the fulfillment that comes from creating something meaningful, leading with purpose, and setting an example for the next generation is immeasurable.
This issue is a reminder of the importance of self-care, the power of community, and the impact we can have when we lift one another up. We are all navigating our own journeys, and as women, it’s essential to support and celebrate one another—whether in business or in life.
To every woman who is working hard to build her dreams, take care of her loved ones, and find her own sense of balance, know that you are seen, you are valued, and your contribution matters.
Thank you for joining us in celebrating the remarkable women who make our world a better place.
Gracelyn Baggett: Sun Kissed Imagery, Ty Harper Photography
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Karen Wood
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Karen Wood: Karen Wood Photography, Grey Hernandez May 2025
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
city scene
1 - 7: The Allen Police Department 2024 Awards Banquet was a night of celebration and recognition! APD honored the dedication, bravery, and commitment of their officers, staff, and volunteers who go above and beyond to serve the community. Congratulations to all the recipients, and thank you for your service! Entertainment was provided by veteran officer and magician Chris Hester.
ARTICLE BY DEBORAH DOVE
Local Experiences
DISCOVER LOCAL GEMS, CREATE MEMORIES, AND EMBRACE
AUTHENTIC COMMUNITY EXPERIENCES.
There’s something luxurious about spending an afternoon in beautiful surroundings, eating finger sandwiches and delicious bite-size treats from a delicate tiered plate and sipping tea from a bone china teacup. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a girly afternoon, these elegant and cozy local tearooms offer the perfect venue for high tea.
Tea at the Adolphus | Served in the Adolphus’s elegant French room, Tea at the Adolphus is a storied tradition. Enjoy a three-course menu of tea sandwiches, scones, and pastries paired with loose leaf teas. 1321 Commerce Street, Dallas, TX
DeGolyer Tea Room at the Dallas Arboretum | This three-course tea service includes a demitasse of soup, assorted tea sandwiches, sweet treats, scones with clotted cream, jam, and seasonal tea selections. 8525 Garland Road, Dallas, TX
Chocolate Angel | Daily high tea service set in a shabby chic environment. Features 10 different blends, along with savory and sweet tearoom favorites. High Street Antique Mall, 800 Central Expressway, Plano, TX and 635 W. Campbell, # 310, Richardson, TX
Lavendou Bistro | An affordable French high tea served weekdays with a French countryside ambiance. Enjoy freshly prepared finger sandwiches, mini pastry plate, tea breads, scones, cream, butter, and jam served with English Breakfast Tea. 9009 Preston Road, # 200, Dallas, TX
Pattea Lou’s Tea Room | This themed tearoom serves assorted sweet and savory treats on a tea tower. Enjoy quiche, sandwiches, pasta salad, scones, macarons, chocolates, mousse, and more with a variety of delicious teas. 770 South Main Street, # 430, Keller, TX
ARTICLE BY FATIMA DURRANI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY GREY HERNANDEZ
TAYLOR DAVIS
Celebrating Allen Resident Miss Dallas 2024
Photo Courtesy of Sun Kissed Imagery
“Beauty pageants in our society are often considered vain or outdated. But they represent an opportunity to celebrate the versatility and power of being a woman. We can be competent, worldly, intelligent, AND beautiful. The pageant gives us a chance to show the world that.”
Sometimes the most impromptu, last-minute decisions we make are the ones that serve us the best. Taylor Davis’s eleventh-hour decision to run for Miss Howard University led to outcomes that still amaze her.
Her pageant journey began in 2021 as a budding college senior in Washington DC. Gaining confidence from her win on the East Coast, she decided to compete for Miss Dallas upon her return to Allen. Taylor has lived in Allen since age seven and graduated from Allen High School in 2017.
Winning Miss Dallas in 2024 propelled her to witness her growth as an individual hand in hand with her involvement in competitions. “Beauty pageants in our society are often considered vain or outdated. But they represent an opportunity to celebrate the versatility and power of being a woman. We can be competent, worldly, intelligent, AND beautiful. The pageant gives us a chance to show the world that,” she reflects.
We asked Taylor to give us insights into a world that many women may be eager to explore but don’t know where to start.
WHAT IS YOUR PLATFORM?
“We have three scored sections of the competition. One of them is the interview, where we talk about our platform—our WHY. ‘ALL IN,’ a platform I developed as Miss Howard, is my why. This message encourages us to live life fully, even with the pain of rejection. Courage is not pretending that fear doesn’t exist. It's about choosing to move forward in spite of your fear and conquering imposter syndrome.”
Photo Courtesy of Sun Kissed Imagery
HOW HAS PAGEANTRY HELPED YOU AS A PERSON?
“Pageantry has pushed me in ways that I have never thought of, especially with my discipline, grit, mental health, and fitness. For example, one of the most nerve-wracking parts of the competition was when the judges asked me an impromptu question while I was on stage in front of hundreds of strangers. I'm inclined to believe that if you can do a pageant, you can do anything!"
WHAT IS YOUR ADVICE TO YOUNGER WOMEN?
“Life is short. There's no shame in trying something new, even if you fail the first time. We all have insecurities, but we don't have to let them get in the way of living life to its full potential. If you're on the fence about pageantry, I recommend attending one. You'll find that the women and girls on stage are ambitious, successful, and kind. If you leave feeling inspired, that's your indication that a pageant might be worth giving a try!"
WHERE CAN WE FIND YOU?
“Future appearances and events are scheduled with exciting brands like the Dallas Mavericks, Dallas Cowboys, Dallas Wings, Cetaphil, and community events like the Texas State Fair and delivering Emily's Smile Boxes to Children's Hospital in Dallas during Christmas."
In addition to working as a social media analyst for the National Football League, Taylor is gearing up for the Miss Texas Pageant in Houston in May 2025. You can follow her on Instagram at #taylorlaurenn_
ALLEN EYECARE CENTER
“I had a great experience getting my eye exam at Allen Eyecare Center! Kara S and Jacob at the front desk welcomed me as soon as I walked in. They had great energy, and they took the time to smile and greet me. Dylan was an excellent technician and was very professional. Dr. Brooks is a wonderful doctor. He is very patient and takes the time to explain everything. Eye exams usually make me nervous, but the professional attitude of the staff and the friendly faces helped calm my nerves and let me have a great experience!”
-Joanna
Whether ret iring or changing jobs, you’ll want to know your ret irement account opt ions.
There are four potent ial options for your 401(k) when leaving an employer:
• Leave it in your former employer’s 401(k) plan, if allowed by the plan.
• Move it to your new employer ’s 401(k) plan, if you’ve changed employers and your new employer plan allows for it
• Roll the account over to an individual ret irement account (IRA).
• C ash it out, which is subject to potential t ax consequences.
We can talk through your financial goals and find the option that works best for you.
Make Mom
ARTICLE BY FATIMA DURRANI
Expertise, Artistry, and Experience
Feel Beautiful
Mom’s the best, right? Then treat her accordingly on this Mother’s Day at Haute Beauty Aesthetics, a boutique luxury med spa located in Allen.
Haute Beauty Aesthetics isn’t your traditional salon or average spa. Aesthetics injectables are performed by an experienced, certified nurse practitioner, Jennifer Adams, while aesthetician Olivia Womack uses medical-grade skin care products for facials, microneedling, chemical peels, and Hydrafacials. Treating mom to a spa day with Haute Beauty Aesthetics means superior skin care in an environment with professionally trained staff.
Education is a foundational practice that Jennifer offers to her clients. Mom wouldn’t want someone to throw her in a chair and begin working on her face, right? The aesthetic journey starts with a comprehensive consultation and individualized treatment plan based on her specific areas of concern. This not only sets realistic expectations, but it makes a client an active part of the process rather than sitting passively at the receiving end.
Dermaplaning or microneedling? Hydrafacial or chemical peel? Filler or Botox? Sculptra or Radiesse? While all-inclusive terms like “anti-aging” are thrown around loosely in today’s world of beauty and skin care, Haute Beauty Aesthetics staff explain what’s best for their clients based on a customized protocol. For some, this may mean seeking more corrective treatments. For others, it may mean upgrading maintenance routines.
As a nurse practitioner, Jennifer possesses the ability to carry high-quality medical-grade products for her clients. “Using these medical-grade products at home in between your med spa treatments is where the power lies!” she says.
From May 1-12, Haute Beauty Aesthetics is offering 10% off gift cards and 20% off skin care products by ZO Skin Health, Alastin, Colorescience, and AnteAge MD. And here are some more options, infused with love, for this Mother’s Day.
Neuromodulator or dermal filler injectables: These treat facial wrinkles and help create contour, structure, and volume in the face and lips. “BOTOX weakens the ability of the muscle to contract. When the muscle doesn’t contract as deeply, wrinkles can’t form or are softer,” Jennifer explains. Other injectable options include Kybella, which is best for supplemental fat (like under the chin area), while lipotropic injections increase fat metabolism.
Skin rejuvenation: Want to turn back the clock? Manual exfoliation techniques like dermaplaning help to address fine lines, peach fuzz, and a dull complexion. By removing dead skin cells, it also improves the absorption of skin care products, maximizing their effectiveness. Chemical peels such as VI Peel and BioRePeel also exfoliate your skin and stimulate the production of new collagen proteins, and are gentle enough to use on any skin tone.
CONTINUED >
Microneedling: Microneedling is a noninvasive procedure that stimulates new collagen production. It can help result in a more youthful, refreshed complexion without significant downtime. Microneedling (with or without PRP) can help correct scarring and hyperpigmentation. PRP uses your body’s platelet-rich plasma to improve skin elasticity, volume, and texture. Its power comes from a large concentration of more than 20 growth and healing factors.
Hydrafacials: The "be-all" of skin care, a Hydrafacial consists of cleansing, exfoliation, extractions, and infusion of serums. Clients can upgrade their facial to include dermaplaning, medical-grade skin boosters, lymphatic drainage massage, or LED light therapy for a more customized treatment. ”It’s really important for us to use products that are clean with no parabens, sulfates, or fragrances added, and are appropriate for sensitive skin too,” reflects Olivia.
Olivia utilizes a results driven approach in her work as a medical aesthetician. “We use patented technologies and delivery systems for our medical-grade products; this ensures your results will go deep.”
Jennifer is the owner of Haute Beauty Aesthetics and possesses a Master of Science in Nursing. “Look for the longevity of your providers. If your aesthetician or Botox injector is different every time you hit your med spa, then it’s a red flag!”
Want to schedule a complimentary consultation? Call or text 469-790-0204 or email info@hautebeautyaesthetics.com.
As a nurse practitioner, Jennifer possesses the ability to carry high-quality medical-grade products for her clients. “Using these medical grade products at home in between your med spa treatments is where the power lies!” she says.
CAPTURING PRECIOUS MOMENTS
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY KAREN WOOD: KAREN LAINE PHOTOGRAPHY
CREATE LASTING MEMORIES WITH MATERNITY AND NEWBORN PHOTOS
Newborns change at lightning speed. You’ll want to remember every sweet detail—lashes, toes, hair, wrinkles, rolls, and nose. You’ll want to capture who your new little person is, how he/she looks, and who he/she looks like! Newborn portraits capture all of this. They also tell the story of new parents and building bonds— the wonder of a new family and new beginnings.
Right now, these beautiful portraits you capture of your little one will be for you— memories to treasure and hold in your heart. Soon, however, your newborn’s photos will be for him, the foundation of his identity. They’ll be his first connection to his family, the first time he is celebrated. His portraits are physical proof that he belongs and has always been loved. You’ll want to surround him with this constant visual affirmation. As mom to seven, I’ve seen the impact of portraits on my own children and made every effort to surround them with these confidence builders in our home, but it isn't a novel concept.
Portraits of various types have been valued for thousands of years without formal validation. However, in 1975, Tulane University decided to make it official when they set out to show they could measurably improve the self-esteem of children through photographs. They found an increase of 37% over five weeks! I think that seals it, but what about maternity portraits?
When I had my kids, people didn’t really do maternity photos. In fact, women often HID from any nearby camera. Pregnant women were supposed to be modest and demure, and clothing was designed to obscure the belly, not accent it.
CONTINUED >
Sadly, pregnancy wasn’t seen as the testament of strength and beauty it is today. However, in 1991, Annie Leibovitz revolutionized how we see and celebrate pregnancy when she photographed Demi Moore nude for the August cover of Vanity Fair. It was scandalous. But it was compelling. And it was absolutely breathtaking. It gave women permission to celebrate pregnancy and the pregnant figure through portraits.
A woman is never more powerful and more herself than when she nurtures new life, whether through pregnancy, surrogacy, or adoption. And she is never more beautiful. If your journey to motherhood has not included a pregnancy of your own, I want you to know I believe your path is just as powerful and beautiful. Pregnancy is a miracle. Seemingly against all odds, in a world where we may be more health conscious than ever, fertility can be a struggle. Those who find a somewhat easy path to motherhood are all the more fortunate. Whether you were blessed with a gentle journey or one fraught with struggle and disappointment, once you are expecting, this short and iconic moment in your life deserves to be celebrated. YOU deserve to be celebrated.
Your strength, patience, and love deserve to be celebrated. Your story deserves to be told. The distinct beauty of your pregnant body that holds within it all the hope for the next generation should be fully felt and experienced.
Many childbearing women only experience pregnancy once or twice. It’s simultaneously the most amazing experience of a woman's life and the hardest, vacillating between the deepest joy and exhilaration and the pain of her actual physical limitations— and more. It can be really hard to feel beautiful while watching your body change so drastically. A growing belly, spreading hips, swollen feet, skin and hair challenges . . . even the burden of extra weight and supplying nutrition and blood to another human can leave you feeling less than enthusiastic about the most awe-inspiring event of your life.
But these are the reasons you absolutely NEED a full-service maternity session. Imagine a pampering day planned just for you, featuring hair and makeup services, some decadent treats, and being dressed up in a range of elegant gowns and cute, modern, styled looks to be photographed in different sets, making you feel like a supermodel. With masterful posing and lighting, you'll LOOK like a supermodel too. This is just the boost you need to help you slow down and drink in this momentous occasion in your life. Something this amazing should be remembered and cherished. So hang them in your home or treasure them in a book. Show them to your kids as you recount their journey into the world. It’s a part of their story too.
One of the most important things you will do in your own life and for future generations is raise a family. You are shaping the future. You are strong, you are beautiful, and you can do anything because you are a mom.
To schedule your own session, reach out to Karen at (469) 9270225 or visit her website at www.karen-laine.com
PLANO ORGANIZATION BUILDS A BRIDGE FROM SHELTERS TO COMMUNITY
Nonprofit of the Month: Emily’s Place
ARTICLE BY VALERIE MERRICK | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF EMILY’S PLACE
“
“Emily’s Place helps you strive to be your higher self, to maintain a positive mindset.”
“Each time a woman stands up for herself, without knowing it possibly, without claiming it, she stands up for all women,” argues Maya Angelou. And in a local residence in Plano, women are standing up for themselves each and every day. Since 2002, Emily’s Place has served as a way for women and their children who are escaping abusive relationships to move from surviving to thriving.
Through their continuum of care centered on three pillars—personal empowerment, economic empowerment, and family empowerment—the women are able to grow in their self-confidence and self-sufficiency through their time at Emily’s Place, which can last for up to two years. In the words of one resident, “Emily’s Place helps you strive to be your higher self, to maintain a positive mindset. It shows you what you can achieve with time and patience.”
It is this mission which originally attracted Colleen Campbell, chief executive officer for Emily’s Place, to serve in a leadership capacity. “I came out and did a tour before the interview, and that was it. I could see and feel the work that was being done here.”
Colleen says that many of the women and families are not only escaping physical abuse, but also the mental turmoil that comes with it. Oftentimes, abusers isolate their victims and control them financially, so Emily’s Place works with each family to help them reestablish themselves as independent women. Colleen explains, “We have several moms that have purchased cars since they've been here. When they are able to purchase their own vehicle, it's just a wonderful thing for them as they experience the independence that comes from having your own car.”
Thankfully, Colleen is not alone in the fight against domestic violence, as Emily’s Place works with counselors, case managers, mentors, and more. “We couldn't do what we do without the support of our community, and that is in the form of volunteering, financial donations through our Amazon wish list, or item donations for our boutiques.
“We try to meet our families, our moms, where they are when they get here. We had a mom that came this week with two children and she just had two small bags. So when they get here, we take them shopping in our women’s and children’s boutique, free of charge. Our boutiques have clothing, shoes, purses, hair accessories, makeup, and everything they need so that they can feel good about how they look and feel after they get here.”
One of the highlights of many of the women’s experiences at Emily’s Place is the community they build. One resident recalls, “I still visit the residents who used to be my housemates. I see several of us as family. It’s a sisterhood.” Colleen encourages volunteers to consider joining in their Dinner for the Soul event as a way to model strong family relationships. “Volunteers, whether individuals or groups, are invited to come and serve lunch to our families on Sundays after they get back from church, and a lot of times our volunteers will stay and have lunch with our residents. It's a great opportunity for role modeling for our families to see other families who have healthy boundaries.”
To learn more about Emily’s Place or get involved, visit their website at www.emilysplacetx.org or call (972) 424-7775.
COLLABORATION OVER Competition
The Power of Women Supporting Women
In today’s fast-paced business landscape, one thing has become abundantly clear: collaboration is key. Now more than ever, women entrepreneurs are proving that success isn't just about individual ambition—it’s about the collective strength of women who uplift, support, and inspire one another.
For many, the journey to entrepreneurship is filled with challenges—whether it’s navigating a male-dominated industry, balancing personal and professional responsibilities, or overcoming self-doubt. But when women come together, they create a space where each voice matters, each experience is valued, and each milestone is celebrated. It’s a powerful reminder that while the path to success may be difficult, it’s far easier to walk when you’re surrounded by a community that has your back. For women in business, these connections often become sources of inspiration, advice, and camaraderie. They offer a chance to share resources, brainstorm solutions, and, just as importantly, provide emotional support in the face of inevitable setbacks.
The benefits of networking and supporting one another go beyond just business growth. Women entrepreneurs often share a unique understanding of the challenges that come with balancing career aspirations and personal commitments. This shared understanding fosters an environment where advice isn’t just practical but empathetic. It’s about giving one another the tools to grow professionally while fostering personal development, all within a community that genuinely wants to see each other succeed.
The impact of women supporting one another reaches far beyond individual success—it can transform industries, communities, and even entire economies. When women entrepreneurs lift each other up, they pave the way for more women to follow in their footsteps, creating a ripple effect that promotes inclusivity and equality in business. The more women who succeed, the more opportunities open for others to do the same, and the stronger the network becomes.
As we continue to see more women step into leadership roles and start their own businesses, it’s crucial that this culture of support and solidarity remains at the forefront. When women come together, they are not just creating successful businesses—they are shaping the future of entrepreneurship.
SPOTLIGHT ON THE GLOBAL WOMEN’S EMPIRE
One organization making a profound impact in North Texas is the Global Women’s Empire. Known for its empowering network and resources, the organization is the force behind several “Babes in Business” groups that are sprouting up across the region. These groups are specifically designed to connect, empower, and inspire women entrepreneurs of all industries and backgrounds.
The Global Women’s Empire has created a vibrant ecosystem where women are encouraged to collaborate, learn, and grow together. These groups have become essential hubs for entrepreneurs seeking not only professional development but also genuine connection and mentorship. By providing events, workshops, and networking opportunities, the Empire is shaping a future where women support women in every sense of the word— whether it’s sharing business strategies, offering emotional encouragement, or simply cheering each other on.
The rise of “Babes in Business” groups is a testament to the organization’s commitment to fostering a culture of collaboration. Each group is tailored to local communities in North Texas, offering a space where women can come together to discuss challenges, celebrate wins, and provide much-needed support in a safe, nurturing environment. The result is a network of women who are redefining what it means to be successful in business, proving that when women unite, they are unstoppable.
For more information and GWE Babes group locations visit gwebabes.com.
Tiana Green , Realtor, specializes in residential and commercial buying, selling, and leasing.
Christina Marie is the owner of Sky’s The Limit: Business-Life-Health Consulting. She is also a partner of Jumpy Parties DFW and an author. Stefanie Karpis Mwaura is the owner of Renegade The Karpis Insurance Agency and Fitbody Family Bootcamp.
AnnaLisa Johnson is a freelance marketer specializing in creative design, digital marketing, and social media management.
Global Women’s Empire Founders, Photo by Allison Amores
At 100% Chiropractic Fairview we specialize in quality Chiropractic care and whole body wellness. We want our community to enjoy life and achieve their full potential at whatever stage of life they are in. Dr. Jenny Garner and her amazing team will greet you with a smile and will make your health our priority.
FIRST EXPERIENCE
Celebrating Local Women Entrepreneurs
Meet the Women Behind the Businesses Making an Impact in the Community
Our Ladies Issue is a celebration of remarkable women who have not only built successful businesses but have also fostered strong, supportive networks that uplift and inspire others to achieve greatness. These women are challenging traditional norms and redefining what it truly means to be an entrepreneur in today’s world. Their stories are filled with resilience, determination, and creativity, making them a powerful source of inspiration for anyone looking to pursue their own dreams.
From innovative creative leaders and wellness advocates to trailblazing financial experts, these local women are paving the way for future generations of entrepreneurs. Their work is not only creating waves in their respective industries but also demonstrating the impact of women supporting women. Through mentorship, collaboration, and shared resources, they are cultivating environments where others can thrive.
The collective influence of these women goes beyond business success—it’s a testament to the strength of community and the importance of lifting each other up. Their journeys remind us that there is no one-size-fits-all path to success, and every woman’s unique experience contributes to the larger story of empowerment and progress.
As you dive into the profiles of these inspiring entrepreneurs, we encourage you to reflect on how you can play a role in fostering a similar network of support in your own life. Whether you’re an established business leader or just starting your entrepreneurial journey, remember that success is sweetest when we work together, empower one another, and rise as a united force.
We asked our partners how being a woman in business and having the support of other women business owners has impacted their journey. Here are a few highlights of their responses. Read their full stories on our Facebook pages throughout the month of May as we celebrate our fierce female partners.
ARTICLE BY ANGI BURNS
“The collective influence of these women goes beyond business success—it’s a testament to the strength of community and the importance of lifting each other up.”
Alyssa Carman, photographer and owner of Lemon Drop Studios, has been an entrepreneur for ten years. She values the camaraderie of fellow women entrepreneurs, finding strength in sharing the highs and lows of business and life. In building her studio, Alyssa faced challenges in a male-dominated field but learned to stand firm in her design choices. Her multitasking, compassion, and feminine charm have been key to setting her business apart in the photography world.
Alyssa Carman
Angi Burns, owner of Rockwall, Allen, and Plano City Lifestyle Luxury Publications, is a former educator turned entrepreneur. She appreciates having a supportive group of women who understand the challenges of balancing work and life. Angi believes women often see the bigger picture and set lofty goals—goals that can be scary, but incredibly rewarding when achieved. Her passionate commitment to her clients and the quality of her work drives her success.
Carey Lynn Zarate, owner of Artistic Endeavors by Carey Lynn, shared that being a woman in business has fostered empathy and a strong connection with clients. With the support of fellow women entrepreneurs, she believes women rise higher together. This collaboration helps her juggle multiple projects and navigate male-dominated spaces with confidence.
Artistic Endeavors by Carey Lynn
For Debby Gowen, owner of Debby’s Complete Services, being a woman in business has helped her relate easily to other women entrepreneurs. The supportive network she’s part of fosters mutual encouragement. Her ability to connect with fellow women in business has been key to overcoming challenges like finding dependable workers.
Angi Burns
Carey Lynn Zarate
Debby Gowen
Dr. Eleanor Duelley
For Dr. Eleanor Duelley, owner of Holistic Hormone Specialist of North Texas, being a woman in business has been transformative. With the support of fellow women entrepreneurs, she finds encouragement, accountability, and shared wisdom. This network creates a level of trust, helping her connect deeply with clients and grow her practice.
Jamie Dawson, owner of Drybar Allen, states that being a woman in business has helped her connect deeply with her clients and business audience. With a supportive network of fellow women entrepreneurs, she feels empowered and uplifted. These women understand the struggles of balancing everything and inspire growth, creating trust, and connection.
For Kim Casale, owner of Elke's Market Cafe, being a woman in business has allowed her to connect with her predominantly female clientele on a deeper level. The supportive network of fellow women entrepreneurs has provided mentorship, advice, and encouragement, helping her navigate challenges and celebrate successes. Her empathy, nurtured by this network, has been essential in building lasting relationships with customers, making her business feel like a community.
Nancy Miller, owner of BODY20 Watters Creek, feels as though being a woman in business has helped her connect with female clients on a personal level. A supportive network of fellow women entrepreneurs allows her to share ideas, successes, and challenges, providing valuable encouragement and perspective, regardless of industry.
Joslin Sansom, owner of Stretch Zone, has been an entrepreneur since her early twenties. She values a strong network of women entrepreneurs for offering encouragement, accountability, and shared experiences, helping to manage stress and navigate business challenges. As a female business owner in the personal care industry, Joslin’s natural empathy and communication skills help foster trust with clients and employees, ensuring a supportive, client-centered environment.
Shannon Cocagne, owner of Advantage Blinds, has been an entrepreneur for 30 years. She values the ease of building relationships within a supportive network of women entrepreneurs. As a woman in the male-dominated construction industry, Shannon often faces the challenge of proving her knowledge and strength. However, her approach helps her build trust with homeowners, allowing her to stand out as more than just a "salesperson."
Kim Casale
Jamie Dawson
Nancy Miller
Joslin Sansom
Shannon Cocagne
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
MARCH 31ST
6th Annual Devil Dog Hot Rods Car & Bike Show
Black Gold Harley-Davidson: 1007 E SH 121 Access Rd., Allen, TX 75013
This awesome show collects proceeds to support local veterans through the Marine Corps League of Collin County. Come out to see all the amazing cars, trucks, and bikes, plus enjoy food, drinks, music, vendors, prizes, and more! Plus, the best-in-show car, truck, or motorcycle receives a $1000 cash prize! Make sure you preregister your vehicle.
Join Operation Once in a Lifetime’s mission to make the dreams of U.S. Service Members and their families come true while enjoying great food, music, and beer! Armor Brewery is proudly veteran-owned and is a great place to celebrate. Take part in an amazing once-ina-lifetime raffle where everyone gets an opportunity to win!
MAY 10TH
Cody's Friends Rescue Pet Adoption Meet-and-Greet
The HUB: 1289 Johnson Rd., Allen, TX 75013 | 12:00 PM
You're invited to join the Rescue Adoption Bus on-site for viewing some adoptable pets! Take home a new family friend or purchase some awesome T-shirts, tanks, long-sleeved shirts, and hoodies to support the rescue. To view adoptable dogs and puppies, please visit the Adopt a Dog page at www.codysfriendsrescue.org.
MAY 10TH
Pirouettes for Pets
Blue House Too: 970 Watters Creek Blvd., Allen, TX 75013 | 1:30 PM
The Allen Civic Ballet presents its annual “Pirouettes for Pets,” a free dance performance featuring excerpts from famous ballets along with original, contemporary works. The Allen Animal Shelter will be on hand with adorable and adoptable animals. The concert admission is free, but monetary and pet supply donations to the Allen Animal Shelter are welcome.
MAY 10TH
Allen Community Band Spring Concert
Lowery Freshman Center Auditorium: 368 N Greenville Ave., Allen, TX 75002 | 3:00 PM
Join the Allen Community Band for its Spring Concert celebrating Mother's Day and concluding its 12th season. Under Craig Logan and Ray Akin, the free concert features music from The Pacific, Wicked, Memorial Day tributes, and a surprise for mothers. The event wraps up with John Philip Sousa's "Stars and Stripes Forever," a beloved American march. Don’t miss this festive, free performance open to all!
MAY 15TH
State of Allen:
Lunch and Panel Discussion
Courtyard by Marriott at Allen Event Center: 210 E Stacy Rd., Allen, TX 75002 | 11:30 AM
The State of Allen, in connection with the Allen/Fairview Chamber of Commerce, offers a unique opportunity to gain information and insight from community leaders on topics that are relevant to Allen's business members and others in the community. Attendees will learn about the previous year's successes and upcoming initiatives.
MAY 16TH
The Big Z Classic and Bash
Heritage Ranch & Golf Country Club: 465 Scenic Ranch Cir., McKinney, TX 75069 | 11:00 AM
Join the Big Z Foundation for their annual golf tournament. Enjoy a day of fun and philanthropy! Your participation helps provide grants, holiday support, and essential resources to families facing medical challenges. Make sure you stick around for the Bash, starting at 6 p.m., featuring a delicious dinner, amazing auction, and the phenomenal band Midtown 10 with special guests!
MAY 23RD
GOODnGONE Country Rock Band
Allen Heritage Village: 450 E St Mary Dr., Allen, TX 75013 | 7:30 PM
Come celebrate with a rocking Texas country band who calls North Dallas home. GOODnGONE's original material combines modern country-rock guitar with a touch of classic twang. Enjoy listening to a mix of classic, red dirt, and Texas country. Their influences include The Randy Rogers Band, George Strait, Dwight Yoakam, and Jack Ingram.
Come honor the new moon and strengthen your connections with community members! The new moon offers a moment to reflect on the past, set fresh intentions, and open up to new beginnings. Create intentions and affirmations to establish healthy habits with the aim of reflecting and reinventing ourselves into the best versions of who we are meant to be.
DIY VANILLA ORANGE SUGAR SCRUB
Create your own DIY sugar scrub for a perfect gift for a special person in your life.
To make one 8 ounce mason jar of vanilla orange sugar scrub, you need:
• 1/4 cup of coconut oil
• 3/4 cup of sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 10 drops of orange essential oil
Soften the coconut oil in the microwave for a few seconds. Next add the vanilla extract and the orange essential oil. Then, stir in the sugar, a little at a time. Print off a fun label or attach a ribbon to the jar, and your gift is ready. Enjoy!
