WORK BIKE MEET
What we offer: Welcome to Ledger
Explore downtown Bentonville's vibrant biking scene Hailed as the mountain-biking capital with over 150 miles of trails, Ledger is a groundbreaking marvel and the world's first bikeable building Ascend its iconic ramp to a rooftop oasis blending innovation and community Welcome to Bentonville's architectural gem, where biking culture thrives amidst urban evolution
Explore Bookable Benefits: On-demand conference rooms are available by the hour, with capacities ranging from 4 to 70 people Explore Coworking: Ledger makes it easy to show up on day one and work with in-house office benefits and community perks Host your next event: With over 20,000 sq ft of event space, Ledger offers a unique, unrestricted 360 view of Downtown Bentonville Ride the Ramps: Enjoy a leisurely stroll or bike at the world's first bikeable building, sun up to sun down
Learn more: Email member@ledgerbentonville com to discover all there is to offer
The Essence of Bentonville
Welcome to the premier issue of Bentonville City Lifestyle—a community-inspired publication created to elevate your everyday experiences within this remarkable community.
Think of us as your go-to resource for all things Bentonville. While flipping through these pages, expect to be drawn to the extraordinary stories and spaces that define our cherished city.
Whether you’re a new arrival or a longstanding local, Bentonville’s unique allure is impossible to deny. From its picturesque trails and world class museums to its budding culinary scene and entrepreneurial community, each element comes together beautifully in this unique and vibrant corner of the Ozarks.
In this introductory issue, we invite you to delve deeper into the essence of Bentonville. While you may be familiar with its quintessential landmarks, we have curated special gems to further endear you to this incredible place.
Thank you for sharing your lives with us; we can’t wait to connect with you.
WYATT LAYMAN, PUBLISHER @BENTONVILLECITYLIFESTYLE
September 2024
PUBLISHER
Wyatt Layman | wyatt.layman@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Michelle Bazis | michelle.bazis@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Michelle Bazis, Liz Gonzalez, Patty V Photography
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Eva Tucker
Thank you to our Founding Partners
Wyatt Layman BENTONVILLE CITY LIFESTYLE PUBLISHER
Burn Boot Camp BENTONVILLE BURNBOOTCAMP.COM
Carmelita Catering Co. CARMELITACATERINGCO.COM
Edward Jones Financial Advisors
Daniel Paul | David Jones | Rafe Ann Du Bois | Yesi Dalton EDWARDJONES.COM
Charity Cummings | Guild Mortgage GUILDMORTGAGE.COM
AJ Shirey | Collier & Associates MYREALTORAJ.COM
Hemma Homewares HEMMAHOMEWARES.COM
In Season INSEASONBENTONVILLE.COM
Ledger LEDGERBENTONVILLE.COM
Lily Dighero Ross | The Sudar Group NWARKANSASHOMESEARCH.COM
Linda Stubblefield | Bedrock Asset Management BEDROCKARKANSAS.COM
Mertins Eye & Optical MERTINSEYE.COM
Nisly Home Services NISLYHOMESERVICES.COM
Premier Dermatology at Bentonville PREMIERDERM.NET
Rebuilders Construction
San Studio SANSTUDIOS.COM
Social Project Brewing Co. DRINKSOCIALBEER.COM
Stephanie Funk | Engel and Völkers STEPHANIEFUNK.EVREALESTATE.COM
Strack Interiors STRACKINTERIORS.COM
Studio 3.2.9 Salon STUDIO329BOUTIQUESALON.COM
Thaden Charter THADENCHARTER.COM
Weichert Realtors | The Griffin Company WEICHERTGRIFFIN.COM
Zivel Performance & Recovery BENTONVILLE ZIVEL.COM
inside the issue
MICHELLE
YOUR NORTHWEST ARKANSAS EXPERT!
Being a native of Northwest Arkansas, my pride and understanding of our community are unmatched. Whether you are buying or selling, I recognize that it can be an emotional journey. Ensuring that your concerns, needs, and wants are honored is my top priority throughout the entire process. I am dedicated to delivering a fivestar service to all my valued clients and I look forward to the opportunity to provide you with the same level of care
With a career sales record exceeding 80 million and being ranked among the Top 20 Realtors® in 2023, I can say with confidence that I am ready to represent you to the highest level
Social Project Brewing Celebrates Third Anniversary
Social Project Brewing will be celebrating its third anniversary on Saturday, September 21st with four special releases: Raspberry Cheesecake Slushy Sour, Triple Hazy IPA, Chocolate Birthday Cake Pastry Stout, and 3 Year Anniversary Barrel Aged Stout. Stop by and join the weekend celebration. 600 SW 41st St. Suite 4, Bentonville, AR • DrinkSocialBeer.com
Fresh Flowers at Hemma Homewares
Stop by Hemma Homewares in Downtown Bentonville Saturday mornings for fresh flowers from Mount Olive Farms. Locally grown, harvested, and bundled, Hemma is proud to partner with Mount Olive Farms to provide exceptionally beautiful and long-lasting flowers. 207 SE A St. Bentonville, AR • HemmaHomewares.com
Photography by Elizabeth Abston, Hemma Homewares
COMMUNITY CHARMS FAVORED BENTONVILLE EXPERIENCES
NEIGHBORLY RECOMMENDATIONS TO HELP YOU GROW YOUR LIST OF BENTONVILLE EXPERIENCES TO LOVE.
Like our favorite pair of jeans, we grow more comfortable with a city the longer we live in it. We find our favorites and fine-tune our routines, but in a budding place like Bentonville, there’s never a shortage of new experiences to be had. This city is evolving every day with calculated edits and dynamic additions to help maximize the workplay lifestyle. With a little curiosity, some intentional exploration, and a few neighborly recommendations [like these], we can continue making the most of this blossoming community and grow our list of Bentonville experiences to love, season after season.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY
BY MICHELLE BAZIS
FLOAT LITTLE SUGAR CREEK
Arguably, one of the most underused assets in the Bentonville area is Little Sugar Creek. Less than two miles north of the highways 71 and 49 intersection, this winding waterway flows from Bella Vista to the Elk River in Southwest Missouri. For a relaxing paddle, pack a cooler picnic and put-in at the southeast corner of the Allen’s Food Market parking lot. This family-friendly float features clear waters for turtle spotting, turquoise swimming holes, playful rapids, and a blue heron nesting ground. A popular takeout spot
can be found along Dogwood Drive near Bella Vista Country Club’s 18th hole.
BRUNCH WITH PILOTS
There’s dinner theater and then there’s LOUISE at Thaden Fieldhouse Named after aviator and Bentonville-native, Iris Louise McPhetridge Thaden, LOUISE is situated west of Lake Bentonvile with perfect patio views of the Bentonville Airport. Stop by any day between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. to enjoy your favorite breakfast, brunch or lunch meal while watching the runway buzz with activity.
“...THIS LOUNGE IS WORTHY OF A MID-CENTURY JAMES BOND MEET CUTE.”
NEON SIGN SCAVENGER HUNT
Bentonville has a thing for neon signs. But more than park or business signage, the nooks and crannies of Downtown Bentonville can turn sign spotting into a scavenger hunt. Hidden amongst alleyways and discretely decorating corner facades, you’ll find glowing works like a sassy cowgirl, a billiards playing clown, or an eight point star. Head south along A Street and cut across The Momentary grounds on your way to 8th Street Marketplace and watch neon accents evolve into iconic installments and public art sculptures.
CITY VIEWS WORTH CLIMBING FOR
While exploring Bentonville’s network of neon signs, work your way to the top of the Ledger building for panoramic views that stretch beyond the new Walmart Campus toward the western fingers of Beaver Lake. For gold-medal worthy golden hour views, there’s no competing with The Momentary’s Tower Bar. The meticulously curated atmosphere of this lounge is worthy of a mid–century James Bond meet cute. Enjoy craft cocktails or mocktails and hors d'oeuvres while watching the city fade from vibrant oranges and pinks to dusky blues and purples.
COFFEE WITH KITTENS
Coffee culture runs strong - like the drink - in Bentonville. Naturally, this adventurous, artsy, and entrepreneurial town would redefine the act of enjoying java. We have designer coffee on the square, pours in the park, and brews in a bike shop, but have you experienced coffee with kittens? If relaxing with adoptable pets while eating vegan treats and sipping Costa Rican coffee sounds like your idea of a good time, visit Third Space Coffee inside Best Friends Pet Resource Center.
TAKE THE LONG WAY HOME
Northwest Arkansas is full of beautiful and winding roads with unbeatable Ozark views and sprawling country estates. Along your journey, you might come across small town specials like Hiwasse Mercantile - a modern general store in Gravette - or Joyhouse Coffee’s uplifting mural in Cave Springs.
POWER POSES
BRIDGE POSE (SETU BANDHA SARVANGASANA)
Project radiance up and out from your heart while strengthening your back body.
Open your heart for increased confidence and counteract “text neck” while you’re at it.
ARTICLE BY CAITLIN AGNEW PHOTOGRAPHY BY LIFE N LIGHT
Brett Larkin, founder of Uplifted Yoga, teaches yoga designed to ignite a personal transformation. A trailblazer in the online yoga space, her award-winning YouTube channel has over 500,000 subscribers. Here she shares power poses to incorporate into your practice for a confident and powerful year.
WILD THING (CAMATKARASANA)
Take up space. Get fierce. Practice stretching into the fullest expression of who you are.
CAN YOGA HELP BUILD SELF-ESTEEM?
Confidence is all about feeling good in your own skin, and practicing yoga makes you more aware of your body. You are tuning into your breath, your feelings, and your true vision. Physically it strengthens you. Mentally it helps you focus. With improved posture, you stand taller; and with a clear mind you are more prepared and confident to take on what comes your way.
For more info about Brett and her online training options for all levels, go to BrettLarkin.com.
CAMEL POSE (USTRASANA)
hacks HAIR
Braids to Keep You Chic All Year Long
Braids are a great way to add style and uniqueness to your hair style rotation and have been a staple in hair styles dating back to the 3500 B.C. This historical hairstyle is here to stay, so we wanted to share some go-to impressive looks.
ARTICLE
BY
ABBI SULASKI
PHOTOGRAPHY BY POPPY & CO. BY KELSEY HUFFER
reverse fishtail braids
Part the top half of the hair in two sections. Create fishtail braids (or braids of choice) and tie them together in the back of the hair. Add a fashion accessory around a ponytail for a little extra fun!
CONTINUED >
simple
updo
Part the hair down the center or side part, if preferred. Create braid(s) on the side of the head and secure with elastic. Twist the hair with braids into a simple bun, securing it with hair pins. Add an accessory for a classy touch.
simple bandana braid in a braids pony-tail
Place a bandana on the forehead and tie it in the back. Create as many braids as desired in the back of the head, teasing the ends to avoid using elastics.
CONTINUED >
Part a mohawk section of hair down the center of the head. Create a French braid down the middle. For a thicker-looking braid, gently pull on the strands working your way up and down the braid. Pull it back into a ponytail for a simple and trendy look.
pull through braid with space buns
Part hair down the center. Create pullthrough braids on each side of the head. Tie elastic at the end of the braids to create a ponytail at the nape of the neck. For extra volume in the buns, tease the hair in the ponytail before twisting it into a bun. Secure with hair pins and... Voilà!
BLACKOUT FOR BABIES GALA
FINDING A TOUCH OF GLAM IN EVERYDAY DESIGN
ARTICLE BY ALLISON GIBESON | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
HGTV star shares her secrets to make a home look both beautiful and livable.
Tamara Day, star of HGTV’s Bargain Mansions, describes her style as “laid-back luxe.”
“I am a mom of four, and I like pretty, shiny things,” Tamara says. “The two don’t always mix well. I design with lifestyle and family in mind but with that touch of glam.”
This mixture of practicality and flare can be accomplished throughout the home on a budget, Tamara says.
When it comes to the kitchen, she says replacing the backsplash is one of the most cost-effective ways to refresh the room. Additionally, she says paint is the most inexpensive option to update cabinets, and there is a de-glosser on the market that will reduce the labor involved by helping paint adhere to cabinets.
“You can get a whole new kitchen with some fresh paint,” Tamara says.
In the bathroom, Tamara suggests putting up new light fixtures and wallpaper for a fresh look. She suggests using wallpaper on just one wall to create contrast.
“Wallpaper transforms everything and puts in a hominess factor,” Tamara says.
To give a new feel to the living room, Tamara suggests using decorative pillows as well as displaying design books and layering with a candle or other interesting object to create a sentimental focal point. She also suggests investing in good, quality sofas
and rugs because less expensive options will not typically withstand the amount of wear and tear they receive from a family.
Overall, Tamara says there is a balance between mixing expensive and inexpensive items and materials around the home, all without having it looking cluttered. She says every space needs something that is thrifted.
Tamara finds many people enjoy elements of different types of styles and have a hard time defining their personal style. To help narrow down to a preferred look, she suggests taking a hundred room images and sorting them into piles of likes and dislikes. She says when someone completes this exercise, they typically find a theme to their preferences.
MAKING COLOR, TEXTURE AND PATTERN STAND OUT
Tamara has a natural eye for using great colors and textures in design. What is her approach to making a room look great?
HERE ARE TAMARA’S TOP TIPS:
Find a base color with pops of other colors.
“Every room needs a touch of black and a pop of color,” Tamara says. “The black will anchor it, but the color will give it life.”
If the home is urban, she suggests more bold pops. If it is a traditional home, use a mixture of colors. Additionally, she suggests using one basic color throughout a home with pops of other colors as opposed to having a different color in each room.
Consider wallpaper.
“Wallpaper can be scary for a lot of people, but there are so may wallpapers out there that are removable,” Tamara says.
Tamara says wallpaper adds texture and warmth, and she includes it in most of the homes she designs.
Layer with baskets, blankets and greenery. All three make a room feel cozy and add color and interest to a space.
DIY GOLD LEAF JEWELRY DISHES
supplies you’ll need:
• Wooden bowls, trays, etc.
• Gold leaf (or metallic gold paint)
• Gentle Gold leaf brush
• Mod podge (or gold leaf adhesive)
• Acrylic paint
• Paint brushes
• Painters tape (optional)
Bentonville’s First XFormer Pilates Studio! We offer clients an elevated workout experience that sculpts, strengthens, and tones using the next-generation of Pilates Reformer machines.
Our challenging workouts are designed to build strength, core stability, balance and flexibility through dynamic, Pilates-inspired movement. San’s unique methodology integrates holistic elements such as breathwork, mind-body connection, binaural beats, and stretching for a full-body, low-impact workout. Through this integrated approach, each class journey is designed to cultivate power from within.
At san studio you will:
Experience powerful results, inside and out Expect improved strength, tone, flexibility, and overall vitality Leave feeling balanced and connected to yourself
We also invite you to shop at our curated boutique featuring contemporary activewear, athleisure and loungewear from brands including Beyond Yoga, Splits59, Bandier, Varley, Naghedi and Annabel Ingall, as well as other health & wellness products.
Bentonville City Lifestyle readers will receive 20% OFF their first Credit Pack or First Month’s Membership! Use the code BCL20 at checkout.
steps to do:
• Grab a wooden bowl, some acrylic paint, and a brush.
• Hand paint some paint on one section of the bowl.
• Let the first coat dry and paint another two to three coats of paint until you’re happy with the result.
• Let the paint fully dry.
• I wanted my gold leaf paper to overlap the paint for a layered look, so I took a paint brush and painted some Mod Podge in an overlapping pattern.
• Once the Mod Podge gets tacky, use your hand to apply the gold leaf and accompanying wax sheet.
• Push the gold leaf onto the tacky glue, then remove the top layer of paper.
• Use your fingers to gently push the gold leaf onto the glue a little further.
• Next, use the gold leaf brush to smooth over the whole area and gently wipe away any excess gold leaf. Pay extra attention to the edges.
• Next, smooth the gold leaf section as much as possible, but don’t worry about any imperfections. The organic look of the gold leaf being imperfect gives the piece character.
• Next, work your way to the outer edge.
• Once the gold leaf is perfected, gently brush over the leaf with some Mod Podge to seal it to the bowl.
• Let it completely dry and enjoy!
“They’re a great and affordable gift idea for friends.”
SEPTEMBER 4TH
Wednesdays Over Water: Origami Sake!
Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art | 6:00 PM
This elegant and engaging dinner series features a four-course tasting menu crafted by Chef Timothy Ordway and his talented team of culinary artists. Inspired by the museum’s collection and exhibits, this edible experience is a feast for the senses including spirited commentary by your culinary and curatorial hosts. Tickets are $105 ($95 for members); CrystalBridges.org/Food-and-Drink/Wednesdays-Over-Water
SEPTEMBER 6TH
First Friday
Downtown Bentonville Square | 3:00 PM
First Friday continues in September as Downtown Bentonville Incorporated transforms the Square into a neighborhood block party. This month’s theme is “Adrenaline” and will feature family-friendly activities, local vendors, and live entertainment from 3 - 9 p.m.
SEPTEMBER 7TH
Live on the Green: Gary Clark Jr.
The Momentary | 8:00 PM
Enjoy an evening of Grammy-winning music from accomplished songwriter and instrumentalist, Gary Clark Jr. Hailing from Austin, Texas, Clark’s powerful sound combines blues, rock, and R&B, attracting collaborations with the likes of Stevie Wonder, John Legend, Slash and more. https://themomentary.org/
SEPTEMBER 14TH
Knowing the West
Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
Visit Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art for the opening of its newest temporary exhibition gallery: Knowing the West. This exhibition aims to embrace and examine how people see the American West, telling a more inclusive story and showcasing the diverse groups who shaped the art and life of the West. Museum Hours: Wednesday - Sunday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
SEPTEMBER 21ST
Fall Square 2 Square Bike Ride
Bentonville to Fayetteville | 7:00 AM
Sign up for the Square 2 Square 2024 Fall Bike Ride from Bentonville to Fayetteville. This leisurely, 30-mile ride on the Razorback Greenway will begin at Lawrence Plaza in Bentonville and stop in Rogers, Lowell, and Springdale before finishing at Walker Park in Fayetteville. RazorbackGreenway.org/Square-2-Square
SEPTEMBER 27TH
Movie Night in the Park
Osage Park | 7:30 PM
Who doesn’t love movies under the stars? Join Oh Snap! Ice Cream for Movie Nights in the Park. Located next to the pickleball courts at Osage Park, the 90s-themed Oh Snap! Ice Cream cart offers cool treats and refreshing beverages to enjoy during the movie, projected on a 30-foot screen. Follow @OhSnap_IceCream on Instagram for event updates.
Want to be featured?
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHELLE BAZIS
The Allure of Bentonville
WHY I MOVED HERE WHEN I COULD LIVE ANYWHERE
Stunning Landscape
The concentration of natural diversity is astounding - the Ozark Mountains, turquoise lakes, crystal clear waterways, jaw dropping rock formations, breathtaking flora, and towering waterfalls.
Exciting Growth
There’s already much to love about Bentonville, but also much to look forward to: The Crystal Bridges expansion, the new Walmart Campus and renovated Walmart Museum, the Quilt of Parks, XNA updates, trail development, and more.
World Class Arts
While I love biking, art was my first love. Crystal Bridges and the Momentary are clear headliners, but everyday life in Bentonville reveals how important music, dance, culinary experiences, and public art are to local culture.
Whole Health Lifestyle
Bentonville seamlessly merges urban and natural environments supporting a truly holistic work-play lifestyle. Also, the Alice Walton School of Medicine and Heartland Whole Health Institute are transforming the way we understand health care.
Entrepreneurial Community
From freelancers and independent artists, to small business owners and household brands, the entrepreneurial network in Bentonville is next-level. Not to mention, the community support, financial tools, and educational resources are truly unbeatable.
