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.
Style is one of the most personal and powerful forms of self-expression. It speaks before words do—and tells the world who we are, what we value, and how we choose to live. In this special Style Issue, we’re honoring the many ways people define and refine their personal aesthetic—through fashion, beauty, home design, and beyond.
But style isn’t just about what’s on the outside. It’s a reflection of the inside, of personality and creativity, confidence and individuality. Whether it’s the perfect outfit that makes you feel unstoppable, the way you style your hair or makeup to highlight your favorite features, or the thoughtful details in your home that make every guest feel welcome—style is everywhere.
What’s most exciting about style is that there’s no one-size-fits-all. It evolves with us over time, shifting with seasons, moods, and moments. Some days it’s bold and daring; others it’s effortless and minimal. And that’s the beauty of it. Your style doesn’t need permission or approval. It simply needs to be yours
As you explore the stories in this issue, we hope you feel inspired to embrace your own unique style story—whatever it looks like. Take risks, experiment, play with color and texture. Mix high and low. Vintage and modern. Keep what speaks to you and let go of what doesn’t. Use your surroundings, your wardrobe, and your voice to express the most authentic version of you.
Because at the end of the day, true style doesn’t just make a statement. It tells your story.
Here’s to living boldly, beautifully, and unapologetically in style.
With Regards,
@ALLENCITYLIFESTYLE
Are you on the association board for your subdivision? We would love to partner with you to host our events in your neighborhood! Do you have someone you would like to nominate for Student, Educator, Veteran, Athlete, Artist, Good Human, Non-Profit or First Responder of the Month? Contact us for information on how you or your nominee can be included in upcoming articles. We encourage you to share your events and ideas with us. Just give us a shout. We want to hear from you.
September 2025
PUBLISHER
Angi Burns | angi.burns@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Hang Le | hang.le@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Deborah Dove | debie.dove@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Valerie Merrick | valerie.merrick@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Kathy Moreno | kathy.moreno@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGERS
Morganne Eikelbarner morganne.eikelbarner@citylifestyle.com, Angela Martinez | angela.martinez@citylifestyle.com
STAFF WRITERS
Fatima Durrani, Deborah Dove
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS
Heather Caplick: Heather Lanae Photography, Christopher Bigenho Photography, Jodie Jolley: Aven Willow Portraits, Adeline Merrick: Merrick Multimedia
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Pam Reid, Lisa Wolf
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
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
1 - 14: The Allen Fairview Chamber 2025 North Texas Business Expo & Networking Social was a wonderful success! There were over 300 attendees, 30+ local businesses showcased, and new connections being made all around the room. Special thanks to RoofHero for serving as the presenting sponsor, Fairview Economic Development Corporation for keeping everyone’s cup full with happy hour, and Big Ray’s BBQ for the sliders and fixins’!
15 - 21: Allen City Lifestyle recently hosted its monthly Networking Happy Hour at Neon Cactus in Fairview, bringing together local business professionals for a fun and friendly evening of conversation and connection. The event is held on the fourth Friday of each month, always keeping the same day and time while rotating between great local spots in Allen and Plano. A big thank-you to Neon Cactus for being such a fantastic host this month. Everyone is welcome—whether you’re a small business owner, entrepreneur, or just looking to meet new people in the community. Be sure to follow Allen City Lifestyle on social media for details on next month’s event.
Want to be seen in the magazine?
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY
COURTESY OF HEROES FOR CHILDREN
For 21 years, Heroes for Children has provided critical support to families in Texas navigating the unimaginable—a child’s cancer diagnosis. Through their core programs—financial assistance, social assistance, and comfort and care—Heroes for Children helps bridge the gaps left by insurance, ensuring parents can focus on their child’s healing instead of mounting bills. Whether it's offering direct financial assistance for rent, utilities, groceries, travel, or even funeral costs; providing social assistance through events that bring families together; or delivering comfort and care items during hospital stays, Heroes for Children steps in when families need it most.
“HEROES
INSURANCE, ENSURING PARENTS CAN FOCUS ON THEIR CHILD’S HEALING INSTEAD OF MOUNTING BILLS.”
Every year, thousands of families turn to Heroes for Children in moments of crisis. The organization reviews applications on a weekly basis and distributes approved assistance every Friday. The response is timely and designed to ease financial burdens and restore stability during deeply uncertain times to ensure that families have the support they need.
The impact is best understood through the voices of the families served. One parent shared, “When our son Malik was diagnosed with leukemia earlier this year, our entire world changed overnight. We were thrown into a whirlwind of hospital stays, chemo treatments, and learning how to support our boy through the toughest battle of his life. It’s been an emotional and financial strain in ways we couldn’t have imagined, but through it all, we've been carried by the kindness of others."
“We’re so incredibly grateful to Heroes for Children for awarding our family an $800 grant. This generous gift came at a time when we truly needed it most. It’s more than just financial support—it’s a reminder that we’re not alone, that people see us, and that there’s still so much good in the world. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for helping ease the burden just a little so we can focus more on Malik’s healing and less on the stress. Your kindness means everything to us.”
To celebrate 21 years of service, Heroes for Children will host the Dallas Hold ’Em for Heroes Poker Tournament on September 27, 2025, at the Frontiers of Flight Museum in Dallas. The evening includes dinner, live music, and poker—all to raise funds that directly support Texas families throughout the year.
To learn more, donate, view upcoming events, or get involved, visit www.heroesforchildren.org
Follow along on Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook: @HeroesforChildren
Because of you, no family faces childhood cancer alone.
A liate and Partner with The Franchise Consulting Company, a collection of professional franchise executives with decades of experience who collaborate to make these dreams a reality.
The Empowering Experience of a Professional Blowout
ARTICLE BY FATIMA DURRANI
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADELINE MERRICK: MERRICK MULTIMEDIA
The philosophy behind Blo Blow Dry Bar is simple: give people the power to feel runway-ready at a moment’s notice. No cuts, no color; just wash, blow, and go. In a world where time is short, this concept has “blown” up in popularity!
“Beauty doesn't have to be complicated to be transformational. Exploring personal style starts by tuning into what makes you feel confident and comfortable.”
Blo Blow Dry Bar Watters Creek officially opened its doors in May of 2016. “Whether it’s for a weekly blowout, special event styling, or a moment of selfcare, we’ve become a trusted destination for beauty and confidence in the Allen area,” reflects Velma McMillan, owner and operator.
Every day, Velma’s passion for empowering women and helping them feel confident and celebrated shines clearly in her work, where she blends business leadership with creativity. Her first step is to help women explore their personal style, but make it easy for them to maintain too.
“Beauty doesn't have to be complicated to be transformational. Exploring personal style starts by tuning into what makes you feel confident and comfortable. At Blo, every service begins with a consultation. We listen to your lifestyle, your goals, and how you want to feel when you leave. Whether you prefer sleek and straight, soft curls, or a voluminous blowout, we tailor
every appointment to reflect your individuality. We don’t just offer a hairstyle—we offer a moment of selfcare, empowerment, and consistency.”
Velma realizes that beauty is more than skin deep. “It’s also important to care for your hair beyond the chair. Hair color, product selection, and daily wellness habits all influence your style. For example, eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins A, C, and E and staying hydrated can significantly improve shine and strength. We help clients choose salon-grade products that match their hair type and goals, so they can maintain a healthy, stylish look at home.
“Hair beauty is personal power. It’s not about perfection or passing trends—it’s about self-expression, wellness, and confidence. When your hair reflects how you feel inside, you carry that energy into everything you do. That sense of being seen, styled with intention, and uplifted—that’s the essence of hair beauty to me.
"Hair beauty is also a form of care. It’s the time you carve out to invest in yourself. It’s knowing that your outer look mirrors your inner strength. Whether it's sleek and polished, tousled and textured, or bold and voluminous, hair becomes a visual expression of who you are and how you show up in the world. At Blo, you’re not just getting a blowout, you’re stepping into your power with every strand.”
While styling is Blo’s specialty, hair health is its foundation. Here are Velma's tips for following a consistent routine to maximize hair health:
• Scalp Wellness: Use exfoliating scrubs, nourishing oils, and gentle massaging to improve scalp health and promote healthy growth.
• Hydration and Repair Treatments: Consider deep-conditioning add-ons (especially popular in the Texas climate). They help replenish moisture, smooth frizz, and protect against environmental stress and daily styling.
• Heat Protection and Blowout Longevity: Be educated on how to protect your hair from heat while preserving your style, using the right products and tools.
• Whole-Body Hair Wellness: Be aware of how lifestyle affects hair—from staying hydrated and eating nutrient-rich foods to stress reduction and sleep. It’s all connected, and Blo supports that holistic mindset in every consultation.
While Blo caters to a diverse clientele—including young students inspired by social trends; professional women and busy moms who need polished, manageable looks that last through their packed schedules; and mature clients who prioritize shine, smoothness, and bounce—this emphasis on healthy hair is truly timeless.
“Blo’s
focus on its popular Signature Blowout is a tangible business differentiator. While other salons split their attention across a wide range of services, Blo has mastered one: the perfect blowout.”
Blo’s focus on its popular Signature Blowout is a tangible business differentiator. While other salons split their attention across a wide range of services, Blo has mastered one: the perfect blowout. “We don’t alter the structure or color of your hair. Instead, we elevate what you already have, helping you look and feel your best without the need for scissors or dye,” reflects Velma.
At the same time, Blo salon staff advise clients on all the latest trends, which continue to highlight effortless style, radiant shine, and whole-hair wellness. Here’s what’s trending in the world of hair fashion:
• Textured Blowouts: This airy, voluminous look adds natural movement and is perfect for clients who want that “undone but done” aesthetic. It's one of the most requested styles.
• Undone Waves and Lived-In Finishes: Casual elegance continues to trend with soft, tousled waves and effortless bends that bring out the natural beauty in each client’s hair.
• Glossy, Polished Blowouts: Shine is making a big comeback. Blo uses heat-protecting, shine-enhancing products and round-brush techniques to create smooth, reflective finishes that feel as luxurious as they look.
• Half-Up Styles and Soft Braids: Whether it's for an event or everyday glam, these romantic, face-framing looks remain in high demand—playful, polished, and photo-ready.
Ready to feel your best? Visit www.blomedry.com/watters-creek-allen-tx or call 469-795-9000.
ARTICLE BY DEBORAH DOVE | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF CAREY LYNN
Expressing your personal style is more than just choosing an outfit. It’s an ongoing artistic journey that reflects who you are and what you love. And what better way to showcase your own unique flair than by customizing your look with products designed by you!
Artistic Endeavors, home to Carey Lynn Creates, empowers you to define your individuality in ways you never imagined. With an expansive range of customizable products—from playful T-shirts and accessories to game-day regalia and statement-making senior jeans—Artistic Endeavors puts the tools of self-expression directly in
showcasing their personality with hair charms and accessories, showing off their team spirit, or coordinating themed items for a group vacation. For example, she recently outfitted a group of friends traveling to Italy for a girls’ trip with customized matching sarong wraps, wine glass earrings, and personalized wine cups.
Artistic Endeavors boasts a variety of machines onsite—including DTF for shirts, UV for plastic creations, lasers to engrave most every surface, and an embroidery machine with Coloreel— which allows Carey Lynn to create a complete package of personalized
your hands. No matter your mood or moment, the possibilities to create, celebrate, and personalize your inimitable style are unlimited.
According to Carey Lynn Zarate, the owner and creative force behind Artistic Endeavors, the key to personalizing your style is branding yourself, a philosophy Carey Lynn lives. The day we spoke, Carey Lynn was decked out in accessories that reflect her young-at-heart, sometimes sarcastic, and always playful side: raccoons in flamingo pool floaties earrings, fun Croc charms, and a T-shirt that read “Admit it. Life would be boring without me.” At her storefront in Fairview Town Center, Carey Lynn helps others create similar branded looks, whether they’re
products in-house at a surprisingly affordable price.
“Take the mom who wants to support her kid at the game,” she says. “We can kit her out so she can show off her player from her hat to her earrings to her shirt to the banner she hangs on the fence and the sign in her yard at home.”
You can also get gameday ready in style by choosing, designing, and customizing your clear bag (an Allen ISD policy) with personalized stickers. “Some people go low-key with a classic emblem, while others go crazy and make it all about their player. It’s all about your personal style,” Carey Lynn comments. She also specializes in team T-shirts, customizable for mom, dad, little brother, Gigi, and more.
WHERE FUN MEETS FASHION
With a healthy mix of different retailers—national and local, alongside big box stores—there is something for everyone.
The Village at Allen is not your average retail and shopping center. This incredible 1,027,413-square-foot mixed-use development, created in 2008, features some of the area’s most popular attractions, including Cabela’s, Topgolf, and the Credit Union of Texas Event Center, which hosts over 100 events per year.
“The Village at Allen is the third most visited shopping area in the DFW area,” states Jaklyn Huffman, marketing manager for the Village. “In 2024, we had five million visitors; out of that number, two million originated from out of town or from neighboring cities.”
With a healthy mix of different retailers—both national and local, alongside big box stores—there is something for everyone. For example, Numero 28 offers traditional recipes handed down by previous generations, while the all-new 29,000-square-foot Nordstrom Rack has the latest, hottest fashion inventory.
Whether you’re looking to channel your inner Madonna fashion icon or manifest that picture-perfect upscale home interior design, the Village at Allen is a dream come true.
Looking for sustainable fashion? Kid to Kid and Uptown Cheapskate are your go-to’s. The Kid to Kid franchise recycles millions of items each year in over 100 stores. Its sister concept store, Uptown Cheapskate (for teens and young adults), is considered chic yet eco-friendly. The Village also showcases discount stores like TJ Maxx and Five and Below for fashionistas on a budget, while Target offers the latest styles in clothing, shoes, and accessories for the entire family.
Is home fashion your thing? Look no further than Kirkland’s, Macy’s Backstage, Home Goods, and more. It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for a special piece of
wall art with that heirloom feeling, need to spruce up your home décor before the holidays, or are searching for an accent rug with a distinctly foreign design, surely you’ll discover that hidden treasure here. The addition of a HomeSense store has been a game changer for shoppers of Allen. HomeSense Allen is one of only three in DFW, and the only location in Dallas.
For jewelry lovers, there’s James Avery Jewelry, while sporting goods fashion fans can head over to Dick’s or Cabela’s for athletic wear that makes a statement on and off the court or field. And of course, for fashionable self-care options there’s everything from Ulta Beauty to European Wax Center.
The expansive growth at the Village comes as no surprise, for Allen is exploding with an ever-growing talent pool moving to the city. According to the Allen Economic Development Corporation (EDC), Allen’s population reached 113,855 residents in 2024, an increase of 35 percent since 2010. And multipurpose retail centers like the Village at Allen serve these community members with joy!
Spirit Halloween will have a location at the Village at Allen during the fall, with other major store openings in Q3 and Q4 that you won't want to miss! “The Village at Allen enjoys great success; to keep this phenomenal momentum going, one of my goals is to increase community engagement amongst the vendors at the Village,” explains Jaklyn. Currently in the works are a series of events that include Witty Kids Discovery Walks and Art Class with Amber Lee, a fall festival, and a Christmas celebration (slated for 10/11/2025 and 11/22/2025, respectively).
For a complete listing of stores, visit www.villageatallen.com/directory
The Village at Allen is the third most visited shopping area in the DFW area.
Investing in Your Wardrobe Without Compromising Your Style
ARTICLE BY LISA WOLF
IT’S POSSIBLE TO SHOW YOUR UNIQUE STYLE WITH NICE CLOTHES WHILE ALSO STRETCHING YOUR DOLLAR
One’s wardrobe says a lot about a person and it is important to dress to the occasion whether it be work or play while still expressing yourself. Building a wardrobe can be a costly expense but it’s possible to show your unique style with nice clothes while also stretching your dollar.
Second-hand and vintage-style clothes are a fun, sustainable way to build a high-quality and stylish wardrobe without breaking the bank. Buying hand-made and second-hand also reduces the demand for new clothing production, which helps reduce waste and the environmental impact of the fashion industry.
SOME PIECES ARE SIMPLY BETTER WHEN THEY ARE SECOND-HAND
Some pieces are simply better when they are second-hand like worn denim and lived-in boots or leather that’s softened over time. Get creative and add touches to your old favorites with patches, embroidery, and even natural flower colors transferred to fabric. Grab your old t-shirts, family vintage fabrics, or lace, and pull it all together into something new and memorable.
CONTINUED >
SIMPLE, WILD, CLASSIC, COLORFUL; DON’T BE AFRAID TO SHOW YOUR STYLE
The best way to keep your wardrobe fresh is to look for either trendy or classic new pieces and match them with your favorite vintage or second-hand pieces, like a new dress with your grandma’s old leather jacket or a recently purchased foundation piece with a skirt made from vintage fabrics. Simple, wild, classic, colorful; don’t be afraid to show your style and your financial fashion savvy at the same time.
My sister, Haley, used an 1800s petticoat and blouse, salvaged Edwardian style Christening gowns and a tablecloth, and other fabrics to create the most amazing vintage-style wedding dress. It was so perfectly her and absolutely gorgeous. IT WAS SO PERFECTLY HER AND ABSOLUTELY GORGEOUS
HANG UP THE OLD WAY AND TRY A GALLERY WALL HANGING SYSTEM IN YOUR HOME.
ARTICLE BY PAM REID
One of my happy places is sitting in front of a museum wall gallery. I can admire art for hours, and if I’m with a friend, there’s no telling how long we’ll sit, reflect, and share our individual perspectives. If you’ve admired gallery wall displays in magazines, catalogs, or on social media and would like to create one in your home, it’s much easier than you might think.
WHY CHOOSE A GALLERY WALL HANGING SYSTEM?
The beauty of a gallery wall hanging system lies in its flexibility and ease of use. Traditional picture hanging methods can leave walls full of holes, making it cumbersome to adjust placements or update the display. A hanging system, however, allows for easy adjustments without additional damage to your walls. This feature is particularly advantageous for renters or anyone who likes to refresh their decor frequently.
DESIGNING YOUR GALLERY WALL
The first step in creating a gallery wall is planning. Start by selecting a theme or color scheme that complements your space. Themes can be as varied as black-and-white photographs, abstract paintings, or a mix of personal and artistic prints.
MATERIALS YOU WILL NEED:
• A gallery wall hanging system, which typically includes mounting rails, cables or rods, and hooks. You can find them pretty much anywhere, online or at your local home improvement store.
• A collection of frames and artwork.
• A level, measuring tape, and perhaps a laser pointer for precision.
• The arrangement of your gallery wall can follow several patterns, depending on your taste:
• Linear: Artworks are hung in a straight line at eye level, creating a clean and orderly appearance.
• Grid: Perfect for a collection of similarly sized frames, this layout emphasizes structure and uniformity.
• Salon Style: This more traditional arrangement involves layering pieces closely together, often extending across the wall. It’s ideal for creating a rich, filled look.
Enjoy curating a space that is uniquely yours, evolving with your tastes and lifestyle.
01 MEASURE YOUR SPACE:
Carefully measure the wall space where you want to install the gallery. Consider the height and width available, keeping in mind furniture and other room features.
02 LAY IT OUT:
Arrange your artwork on the floor to finalize your layout. This “dry run” is crucial to get a feel for how the pieces will interact with one another. I like to use painter’s tape to create a visual of what my display will look like on the walls.
03 INSTALL THE RAILS AND HANG YOUR ART:
Following the manufacturer’s instructions, mount the rails at the top of your wall. Ensure they are level and securely attached. Attach cables or rods to the rails, then use hooks to hang your frames. The beauty of the system is that you can adjust the height and position of each piece easily.
04 BALANCE AND SYMMETRY:
Step back to view your layout from different angles. Adjust the spacing and alignment as needed to achieve visual balance.
SEPTEMBER 18TH THROUGH 21ST
Classic Carnival Fun
St. Jude Catholic Church: 1515 N Greenville Ave., Allen, TX 75002
From thrilling rides and classic midway games to courtyard fun and family activities, this four-day carnival has something for everyone. With free parking, no admission, and festive vibes all around, it’s a North Texas favorite you won’t want to miss. Details at www.stjudeparish.com/carnival
SEPTEMBER 19TH THROUGH 21ST
Collin County Home & Garden Show
CUTX Event Center: 200 E Stacy Rd. #1350, Allen, TX 75002
Discover everything you need to refresh, remodel, and reimagine your home—all under one roof! From kitchens and baths to windows, décor, and expert advice, this event is a must for any homeowner with big dreams. Learn more at www.cutxeventcenter.com/events/ detail/collin-county-home-garden-show
SEPTEMBER 20TH
The HUB: 1289 Johnson Rd., Allen, TX 75013 | 2:00 PM
Get ready for an action-packed afternoon as local boxing talent steps into the ring for 20 thrilling bouts! With Allen students featured in half the matchups, expect big energy and hometown pride. For details, visit www.allenpolice.org/outreach/allen_police_youth_boxing_gym.php.
-Joanna
Summer in Texas doesn’t play around. From triple-di git temps to surprise storms, your HVAC system is about to clock some serious overtime. At Big D Mechanical , we believe comfort shouldn’t be a luxury it should be your standard. Here’s how to make sure your A/C is ready to carry you through the season like a champ.
1. Start with a Tune-Up
Before you crank it down to 68 and cross your finge rs, schedule a professional maintenance visit. A season al check-up can prevent breakdowns, improve efficiency , and lower your energy bills—because no one wants a surprise repair bill on top of a sky-high electric one.
2 . Call in the Pros
Whether you’re prepping for a heatwave or planning ahead for future upgrades, Big D Mechanical offers expert service, honest advice, and a team that trea ts your comfort like it’s our own. We’re not just HVAC techs—we’re your neighborhood’s cool-down crew.
DONT SWEAT IT! BEAT THE HEAT!
Call Big D Mechanical today to schedule your summer service. Let’s make sure your system is running col d, quiet, and cost-efficient all summer long.
A conversation with Allen jewelry artist and educator John Garrott:
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME A JEWELRY ARTIST?
Early in my collegiate studies I discovered jewelry design and metalsmithing and fell in love with the medium. I received a BFA in Visual Studies from Texas Tech University and a MFA in Metalsmithing and Jewelry Design from Indiana University. After graduate school, I began working as an art instructor at Allen High School and quickly became involved in the department’s growth.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR ARTISTIC STYLE?
My style is contemporary-modern, and I am very inspired by the minimalism art movement. I have aways loved technical and mechanical components, and jewelry is a perfect medium for this exploration.
WHAT MATERIALS DO YOU PRIMARILY WORK WITH?
Sterling silver is my preferred material because it’s very versatile and wonderful for soldering and fabricating. I can create jewelry and holloware and the finish has a magical quality. I also love working with faceted stones!
WHAT IS THE MOST REWARDING PART OF TEACHING STUDENTS HOW TO MAKE JEWELRY?
I really enjoy seeing students become confident in their creativity. This confidence enables them to solve problems they never thought they could.
• John’s work has been published in numerous books and periodicals and has been shown in regional and national exhibitions.
• Allen High School jewelry students have received a first place and finalist awards in the Saul Bell Design Competition under John’s direction.
• John spends his summers teaching graduate and undergraduate metalsmithing and jewelry design courses for Texas Tech University.
ARTICLE BY DEBORAH DOVE PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF JOHN GARROTT
John Garrott
