Leading Ladies of Celina





EXCLUSIVE DESIGN. EXCEPTIONAL LIVING. LOCALLY OWNED.




EXCLUSIVE DESIGN. EXCEPTIONAL LIVING. LOCALLY OWNED.
I don’t know about you but I love any opportunity to recognize the women in my life who just make life more rich and beautiful. Our mothers and daughters are some of the most influential women in our lives. And of course with Mother’s Day this month, all eyes are on moms… But it’s not just the biological mothers but the mother figures in our lives who have made an indelible impact on us. It’s the family members, teachers, friends and neighbors doing awesome things in our community, pouring into our lives - making themselves unforgettable and irreplaceable.
While it’s always important to shop local and support our area businesses, this month is the perfect time to patronize businesses owned by women in our community. That’s one of my favorite parts of this role - connecting with and championing the best of the best when it comes to Celina's women.
These women are movers and shakers, builders and makers. They are both seen and unseen. Their silent service blesses those who are under their care. Their attention to detail in their work shows us something about beauty.
This month, we celebrate five local women who are Leading Ladies in our community. Some you might know and others we can't wait to introduce you to. They are making an impact in our area with their positivity, generosity and purpose.
You will also get to meet our female partners who are Selling Celina. These realtors are best in class in the real estate industry and each offer specialized expertise in their field that sets them apart. They are all knowledgeable, active and connected in our community. We were able to have a fun photo shoot with them at Traci Miller's Terramania.
I believe Celina and Gunter might have more female-owned businesses than many other surrounding cities. In this issue, visit the hat bar at Lauren Bell's Honeysuckle Rose Boutique, tour Jennifer Johnson's Olivia Clarke Homes model home in Celina Hills, and check out Trisha Puente's Humble Home Designs guest bathroom renovation.
I hope you’ll take a few minutes to send a text or make a phone call and catch up with the women in your life who deserve recognition. It only takes a minute to brighten someone’s day and remind them how much you love them.
As always, thank you for reading and we'll see you around town!
BARBARA IRELAND, PUBLISHER @CELINA.LIFESTYLEPUBLISHER
Barbara Ireland | Barbara.Ireland@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Danielle Poché | Danielle.Poche@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Jennifer Haveman | Jennifer.Haveman@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Holly Farrow
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Sharla Davenport, Niki Carbajal, Christine Clark
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Nicole Wierick, Melissa Hatcher
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore
DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer
ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor
OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson
WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
J o i n o u r l i s t t o b e e l i g i b l e t o p u r c h a s e f r o m o u r
f i r s t h a n d - s e l e c t e d b a r r e l a t o u r g r a n d o p e n i n g !
Where neighbors can see and be seen.
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The Celina Garden Club is hosting their biannual garden tour of select gardens in and around Celina on June 3rd. This event draws gardeners from all over the metro area and introduces them to the beauty of our community. Local businesses including Little Wooden Penguin, Shades of Green, food trucks, wineries, and vendors will be highlighted along the tour route to make it a fun day for everyone. Rain or Shine. Tickets found at CelinaGardenClub.org
Photography by CELINA GARDEN CLUB Scan
KMI A/C & Heating is an air conditioning, heating, and VRF installation and repair company with services that are second to none. When it comes to the comfort of your business or family, you want nothing short of the best in this unpredictable Texas climate. Family-owned and local in Celina, they provide service to all of Collin County. With their expertise, they can repair or replace any size or make of commercial or residential unit. KMI-HVAC.com
Photography by KMI A/C & HEATING
Scan
Lone Star Vision Eye Care & Optical is luxury eye care from the friendliest experts in Texas. With two locations in Plano and Celina, they have become one of the top Eye Care practices in North Texas. They use the most advanced technology and highest quality products. Dr. Brantley, Dr Hanstad and Dr. Lundeen are proud supporters of Celina High School and our champion Celina Lady Bobcats soccer team. Schedule your eye appointment at LoneStarVision.com
It is with great pleasure to announce the Outstanding Student Athlete of the Month as selected by the Celina Independent School District (CISD) Athletic Coaching Team. This month’s selection is Lexi Tuite.
Lexi is a senior at Celina High School (CHS) and a four year letterman in soccer where she serves as a Co-Captain of the Girls’ Varsity Soccer team. Lexi scored the winning penalty kick in the 2022 State Championship game to lead the Lady Bobcats to victory! For her efforts in the 2022 season, Lexi was named First Team All State. In addition to soccer, Lexi also runs Varsity track, serves as the Mic Master for the
cheer team, and has also lettered in choir. Lexi has played soccer for 14 years and also plays Forward for FC Dallas on the 04-05 ECRL Club Team.
Lexi was awarded an athletic and academic scholarship to University of Northern Colorado where she will attend school in the Fall. She has been accepted into the honors college and will study business. She is thrilled that she will have the opportunity to play Division I soccer with her Celina teammate and best friend Mia Norman as a University of Northern Colorado Bear! Congratulations to Lexi Tuite on her selection as the May Outstanding Student Athlete of the Month!
1. WHAT DO YOU THINK SETS YOU APART FROM OTHER AGENTS?
Experience, exposure, and tools. Having been a Celina resident for 15 years, I am well versed in this wonderful city. I believe in the power of networking so I am a part of two networking groups with top agents in Dallas and Frisco where we share information daily on listings.
2. HOW ARE YOU INVOLVED IN THE LOCAL COMMUNITY?
Having raised my children in Celina, I have great relationships with the schools. When we first moved here, I jumped in with both feet to volunteer and was on the board of the Parent Teacher Organization and Bobcat Moms. I served on City Council and had the honor of working with groups including police, fire, city staff, and other elected officials. This past year I was in the first Leadership Celina class that reignited my passion and love for this special city.
3. HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR BUSINESS? ANY SPECIAL NICHE?
Since I have a team with agents that live in different DFW cities (Lori Vaden Group), we collectively have a wealth of experience in luxury homes, farm and ranch, new construction, relocation, home renovations, and sell in every price point. We primarily focus on Collin County but do branch out to Denton, Grayson, Dallas, and Tarrant counties.
Lynette Sandidge
Sandidge Real Estate Group - Compass Real Estate lynette.sandidge@compass.com
1. HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR BUSINESS?
Growing up in West Texas on a Cotton Farm, I have a tremendous passion for the small town atmosphere and extensive knowledge of land as well as rural homes on acreage. I have been known as a go-getter and have managed a variety of real estate ranging from land, farm and ranch, single family homes, and commercial properties.
2. HOW HAS SELLING REAL ESTATE IN CELINA CHANGED THROUGHOUT YOUR CAREER?
Real estate is a cyclical business, and I have been through the ups and downs in this industry. I moved to Celina in 2001 when there were very few paved roads and even fewer homes. In the earlier years of my career, Celina was a quiet, small town with very little inventory listed for sale. Now, the real estate market here is booming.
3. HOW ARE YOU INVOLVED IN THE LOCAL COMMUNITY?
I have had two children that attended Celina schools from K-12, and during that time I was involved in many groups including the PTA and Project Graduation Board. We are members of Lifeway Church Celina where I have served on the Hospitality team for many years and the Land Acquisition Committee. I also helped the church find and purchase property that was off-market and managed the transaction to closing.
1. WHAT DO YOU THINK SETS YOU APART FROM OTHER AGENTS?
First and foremost, I genuinely care about the experience for home buyers and sellers. I understand how special and crucial it is. I do this because I truly enjoy helping others start the next chapter of their life. I appreciate the challenge of working with clients from all different backgrounds. I am always prepared when it comes to meeting with my clients and will organize a portfolio that is tailored to their needs.
2. HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR BUSINESS? ANY SPECIAL NICHE?
I am more than just a real estate agent when it comes to my business. I have such a wide network of business relationships - from inspectors to movers, to organizers and painters - all of which can assist during any part of your move. I understand how stressful moving can be and I’m here to help take the load off. I can assist homeowners in the selling of their current home while purchasing another property whether it’s around the corner or a few states away. I do a lot of virtual tours around the city, homes, and businesses.
3. WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO FOLLOW A CAREER IN REAL ESTATE?
Being a former relocater myself, I understand all the perspective views buyers and sellers are looking for while making such a big decision. I strive on providing a 5-star service from start to finish which every home buyer or seller should experience. Moving is stressful enough but it doesn’t have to be if you’re working with the right agent. Moving to Texas was a lifestyle change for me and I’d love to share this knowledge and the possibilities available to other relocaters.
Catherine Buzzetta Monument Realty catherineb@monumentstar.com“I strive on providing a 5-star service from start to finish which every home buyer or seller should experience.”
Catherine Buzzetta
TexasHomesandLand.com
1. HOW ARE YOU INVOLVED IN THE LOCAL COMMUNITY?
I am active in several organizations that help promote and maintain the special feel of Celina. I’m an active member of Celina Chamber of Commerce. I love to participate in local events and with my office being in downtown Celina, I spend a lot of time shopping and supporting local.
2. WHAT MAKES YOU DIFFERENT THAN OTHER AGENTS?
I have lived in the area all of my life. My extended family lives here and most all of them are from the area. These lifelong connections and extensive firsthand knowledge of our community help to set me apart locally in real estate.
3. HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR BUSINESS?
Our company loves to help people connect with the North Texas area and find their special place to make them feel at home. Whether that be homes in town or finding a piece of land with a home or to build, we can help our clients find the perfect property.
4. HOW HAS THE REAL ESTATE INDUSTRY CHANGED THROUGHOUT YOUR CAREER?
Our industry has not changed much! Most of us want to provide a great service to our customers. As the area grows, we still want to keep that small town feel so we can still hang out on the Celina Square as has been done for many, many years.
JillSellsDFW.com
1. WHAT DO YOU THINK SETS YOU APART FROM OTHER AGENTS?
Compassion and communication. I do everything in my power to lessen the stress and make the home buying process as seamless and enjoyable as possible. There is nothing better than getting to hand over the keys to the new homeowner – it is such an exhilarating time for them!
2. HOW ARE YOU INVOLVED IN THE LOCAL COMMUNITY?
I am finding new ways every day to pour into this amazing city that we live in. I volunteer and support Helping Hands of Celina. I am also helping with the Celina Turkey Trot this November and have set the goal for myself to run the entire 5K. I love attending the community events, supporting the local businesses, as well as supporting our schools and teachers.
3. WHAT CAREER GOALS DO YOU HAVE FOR THE NEXT FIVE YEARS?
My goal for the next five years is to help as many people as possible find their dream home. I love seeing people capitalize on their home as an investment, taking them places they have never dreamed they could go. I also strive daily to be a good example to my two girls to go after whatever goals they set for themselves.
1. WHAT DO YOU THINK SETS YOU APART FROM OTHER AGENTS?
I have been in the business for almost 20 years and have lived in Celina for 13 years! The majority of my business comes from referrals and repeat clients. I love my community network.
2. HOW ARE YOU INVOLVED IN YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY?
I love participating in events and am an active member of the Celina Chamber of Commerce and Preston Trails Rotary Club. I also just started the Celina Citizens Police Academy class this spring. I love to spend time volunteering at various city events and am looking forward to helping with Celina’s first Turkey Trot this Thanksgiving!
3. HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR BUSINESS, ANY SPECIAL NICHE?
I specialize in downtown Celina and the majority of my sales in downtown will go under contract before I even take them to market. Downtown Celina is ever-changing and the heart of our city. I love helping clients find their dream homes.
4. WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR HABITS THAT HAVE LED TO YOUR SUCCESS?
I am an early riser! I have a pretty solid morning routine and like to hit the ground running. I make it a point to be out and about and enjoy meeting new people!
Compass Real Estate
Cindy.Peters@compass.com
Cindy Peters“I love helping clients find their dream homes.”
Eve@EveHenryHomes.com
1. WHAT DO YOU THINK SETS YOU APART FROM OTHER AGENTS?
One thing I believe sets me apart is my global presence. I’m a 19-year agent with an International Property designation. I am able to sell anywhere in the world, focusing primarily in the Caribbean, while also selling here in DFW.
2. HOW ARE YOU INVOLVED IN THE LOCAL COMMUNITY?
I am very involved. I’m a member of the Prosper Ladies Association, a member of Gateway Church and have coached girls softball through PYBSA. As a local resident and parent, I stay very involved with the schools.
3. HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR BUSINESS? ANY SPECIAL NICHE?
My business is very unique in that I am a concierge broker. I offer white glove service and tend to even the slightest detail for my clients. Again, this is super helpful while selling in the Caribbean because I can connect them with drivers, hotels, bar managers, etc.
4. HOW DOES SELLING REAL ESTATE IN NORTH TEXAS DIFFER FROM OTHER AREAS? HOW IS THIS MARKET UNIQUE?
The North Texas market is very different than other areas in that our selling process is so fast. I’m also licensed in Florida and Georgia and in both of those states buyers are much slower to act than we are here. It’s not uncommon for a home there to sit on the market for 3 months and be considered “quick” where we often times sell in 48 hours here.
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This month, we celebrate our Leading Ladies of Celina. A variety of influential women are having an impact on our community. These movers & shakers continue to make their mark on our city leading us to marvel at their drive, passion and purpose. We caught up with these women at the Olivia Clarke Homes model home in Celina Hills. We’ll introduce you to each of these leading ladies, all as passionate about what they do as they are about Celina.
ARTICLE BY SHARLA DAVENPORT & CHRISTINE CLARK PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICOLE WIERICKKatie Dunn is a fascinating entrepreneur who co-owns several small businesses, each of which specializes in unique and different market segments. Her passion is connecting people with others and encouraging women to help women. She and her husband, Taylor Witt, opened the doors of their business - Little Wooden Penguin midCOVID. “It was like catching lightning in a bottle moment,” Katie says. “Celina was a little bubble of a community and would not let us fail. You can see that this community has a heart for small businesses.” Since the time of the Little Wooden Penguin opening, Katie’s mission has been pay-it-forward.
Katie enjoys organizing events such as: trivia night, speed dating for mom friends, and lighthearted workshops that teach pizza-making and cocktail-crafting at home. She loves to get people out and to have fun. But these events also create a platform that allows Katie to sponsor local charities such as the Samaritan Inn in McKinney where they were able to provide over 2000 needed items to help families in crisis.
Another passion of Katie’s is the role that she plays in growing the entertainment district of Celina. She’s quick to look for opportunities to participate in city events with her Bar Trailer or partnering with other businesses to bring larger live-music events to town. She naturally looks for opportunities to create moments to move people to connect and find their tribe.
When a city is prime for growth, it’s crucial to have an authority in economic development. Celina has such a leader, Alexis Jackson, Executive Director for Celina Economic Development.
Jackson is the chief salesperson charged with drawing new businesses to town. With over twenty years in the industry, she is focused on managing the way for proper growth and business attraction.
As Director of Economic Development, a position held by few women, Jackson oversees marketing Celina, or as she says, “sharing our story.” She makes approximately forty presentations a year educating companies about Celina and the opportunities here. Jackson is having much success too, like her efforts to secure a much-needed hospital in Celina.
Collaborating with local businesses is a favorite part of the job for Jackson. She often hosts roundtables championing businesses’ ideas and goals. Jackson is active in the community hearing the needs of small businesses.
It is obvious why Jackson is leading the city to an exciting future, because of her genuine love for the town. She says, “In previous cities I’ve lived, I couldn’t say I was proud to live there, but not Celina. I am proud to live here. I am invested here.” Having Alexis Jackson at the heart of Celina’s economic development is a great investment for us all.
Honestly, there is no Celina without Jane Huddleston, a lifelong resident devoted to creating the town’s legacy.
Having always lived on Pecan Street, her heart is devoted to The Square. “I love when I see so many families and people enjoying it. I couldn’t envision anything better,” Huddleston appreciates. It was not easy to keep businesses here, but she was devoted to The Square’s success.
Jane Huddleston has given her time to numerous projects. These include the establishing of the Celina Senior Center, procuring a historical designation for Old Union Cemetery with the help of Fidelis Inter Se Club, being a part of the creation of city events like Holidays in Celina, serving on the Main Street Board, and volunteering at her church serving Wednesday night meals. Most notably, Jane founded the Celina Area Heritage Museum with exhibits honoring Celina’s history including the Veterans Memorial.
Speaking of history, Huddleston made history as the first female appointed and elected to city council, rare to women during that time. She states, “I was very honored that the council would appoint a woman back then. It led the way.” But she didn’t stop there, working full-time at local banks and owning a flower shop downtown.
Today, Jane’s service is limited due to family commitments. She can’t serve like she used to, especially at church, but “I can pray,” she notes.
Huddleston is Celina’s legacy, a statement that discomforts her. She maintains, “Bragging about what you did ruins the purpose of why you do it.” She continues, “You must remember your past to contribute to the present.” Thus, we honor Jane Huddleston, the original lady who led Celina.
Eleven years ago, Melissa Cromwell and her family relocated from southeast Kansas to Celina on the advice of a real estate agent they met while visiting an open house in a nearby community. Now 11 years later, Melissa and her family are fixtures here in Celina.
Melissa is the President and CEO of the Greater Celina Chamber of Commerce. She firmly believes in community volunteering, showing up and helping. Shortly after moving to Celina, she started volunteering with the Main Street Board and then joined the Chamber of Commerce on a part-time basis in 2013 and took over the leadership role in 2014. She’s worked hard to build a strong relationship between the Celina Chamber, Celina Economic Development Corporation, and the City of Celina as well as strengthening the partnership with Celina ISD and the local Collin College campus.
Melissa plays many roles in our community. She listens to business owners and residents alike and strives to help make connections that make all the businesses in the local area more successful. Daily, you see Melissa and the Chamber out in the community volunteering their time at city and school events and fundraisers. For this Leading Lady, supporting local is the name of the game.
The best leaders often take the back seat to help others excel. That’s appropriate for Lauren Griffin Thorsen, owner of Edit Your Brand, a Celina-based public relations, branding and marketing firm for real estate developers, builders and construction companies across North Texas.
Lauren saw a need to help these local businesses. She understands that these companies are experts at their craft but have a gap in their marketing, branding, and online presence. With her twenty plus years of expertise, she is helping to elevate local companies so they stand out and are heard.
“Although hugely successful, our clients often don’t have in-house marketing support, so we partner with them to oversee their branding and communications efforts. This frees them up to stay focused on running their businesses,” Lauren said. As a Celina resident, she understands the local landscape, both old and new, and is focused on positioning local business owners so they benefit from Celina’s continued growth.
Her company name, Edit Your Brand , says it all. Lauren Griffin Thorsen aims the spotlight on others and helps them shine.
Model homes are commonplace, but Olivia Clarke Homes’ model in Celina Hills is unlike any other. Besides maximizing the space and trendy interior design, the outside is extraordinarily unique. Jennifer Johnson, Olivia Clarke Homes owner, boldly painted it black. “No one else is brave enough to do that,” says Johnson. “We’re in love with it.”
Olivia Clarke Homes’ robust sales in Celina made focusing on a model home impossible until now and Johnson is beyond excited. She loves both the exterior and interior. “It felt like home,” she notes.
The interior includes earth colors, natural wallpaper, and black and gold lighting. Johnson purposefully did not use every upgrade available. “I wanted people to not feel they had to spend every nickel and dime on upgrades,” she states. She wanted to prove you can get a gorgeous, comfortable home without paying thousands extra. The home feels and looks bigger having practical use of space. Being a woman-owned business helps with design, Johnson believes. The design is family-centric, “second nature to us,” remarks Johnson.
In a male-dominated industry, Johnson has been well-received. She is thrilled to break the proverbial glass ceiling. It is already leading the way for future female home builders with people contacting her daily asking how their daughter can follow in her footsteps. This, according to Jennifer Johnson, makes it all worthwhile.
OliviaClarkeHomes.comSpring is in the air, and Spring Fever has hit the office! Blair Meador, Kyle Kent and their team from Republic Title are a full-service title insurance company who work hard to provide value to every customer they serve through proven experience and dedicated service. When they are ready to escape the office for a little team-building, they head to Downtown Celina and the Square to unwind and refresh. See their favorite places they found downtown
RepublicTitle.com/Prosper/
Is your office in need of some team bonding? This is the perfect place to lift morale with 28 beers and wines on tap, a rotating schedule of food trucks and live music. Take a swing at mini golf or check out their event calendar to find a charcuterie board or craft workshop that fits the interests of your team! 212 N Oklahoma Dr
When the work day is over, head over to Valley Vines for a wine tasting and charcuterie board! Valley Vines specializes in serving exceptional wines from California and Washington, and Doug and Melody Samuelson’s expertise in wine selection will help you create the perfect wine tasting. 222 W Walnut St Suite 100
Whether it’s brunch, lunch, dinner, or homemade pies you’re looking for, Lucy’s has what you crave! With its cozy atmosphere and comfort food menu, Lucy’s on the Square provides the perfect place for team building outside of the office. Try the Avocado Strawberry Salad and save room for their Coconut Cream Pie! 127 N Ohio St
Come in, relax, and enjoy a delicious meal at Toasted Walnut Table and Market! This charming bistro in downtown Celina is perfect for entertaining clients with its mouthwatering menu and relaxed yet upscale setting. Be sure to get the Fish Tacos now on the menu through summertime! 304 W Walnut St
Need to satisfy your late afternoon sweet tooth? Coming soon, Granny’s Bakery offers baked goods, fresh bread daily, grab and go salads, sandwiches and more! They will also be offering various classes to bring out the baker in everyone . 401 W
When it’s barbecue and scratch made sides you want, look no further than Tender Smokehouse. Try the pineapple slaw and the banana pudding along with the El Jefe and enjoy the patio. The relaxed atmosphere and excellent service make Tender Smokehouse a great place to meet coworkers. 224 W Pecan St
Whether you need your morning cup of joe or an afternoon pick me up, make your way to Summer Moon for their oak roasted coffee with their signature Moon Milk. Take your meeting outdoors and grab a table on their patio to enjoy their various selection of pastries and breakfast bites that perfectly pair with their coffee. 306 W Walnut St
THE CELINA GARDEN CLUB HOSTS
THEIR BIANNUAL GARDEN TOUR
Celina Garden Club started in 1945, initially to educate and promote love of gardening in the area. Since then, the club has grown and has expanded its mission to include community events, sponsor scholarships for Celina High School Students, school district projects, and other community organizations in their gardening efforts.
The Celina Garden Club will be hosting their biannual garden tour of select gardens around Celina and the surrounding areas on June 3rd. This event draws gardeners from all over the metro area and introduces them to the beauty of our community. Michella Melton, this year’s chairperson, is excited to lead the garden club’s biggest fundraiser. She joined the garden club three years ago, but it’s only been since retiring from her law practice that she’s been able to really dig in.
On the tour for this year, they will feature several homes in rural areas; gardens in downtown Celina; and some smaller suburban homes. Their desire is to highlight the fact that gardens can be beautiful and fulfilling anywhere. Many local businesses including Little Wooden Penguin, Shades of Green, food trucks, wineries, and vendors will be highlighted along the tour route to expand the experience and make it a fun day for everyone. Tickets can be purchased online at CelinaGardenClub.org
The Celina Garden Club is currently looking for new opportunities to invest with other nonprofit organizations in the community. If your organization is interested in partnering with them, contact them through the website or on Facebook and Instagram. Facebook.com/CelinaGardenClub
WOMEN NETWORKING, CONNECTING, AND SERVING
Celina Ladies of Influence, CLOI, is a monthly networking group created by women to empower and propel women into business success through education, mentoring, and service. Organized and sponsored by the Celina Chamber of Commerce, CLOI meets the first Wednesday of every month and includes breakfast, introductions and networking among members, and a speaker or educational topic.
According to CLOI’s chairwoman, Holly Pennington, “CLOI exists to encourage woman to come together and support businesses and the community."
Celina Ladies of Influence has hosted Pure Form Training Celina and C-Town Yoga for health and wellness tips, visited Terramania on the Square, learned about the Cinco de Mayo celebration with Dago Rodriguez, had a Healthy Chat with Mada Leigh, and much more. However, CLOI is not just food and fun with other businesswomen. It is also about serving the local community throughout the year. Several service-oriented events include:
BLANKETS FOR BLUE SANTA
Members cut and hand-tied 30 cozy blankets for Celina Police Department’s Blue Santa gift-giving program
DESSERT DASH FOR CELINA EDUCATION FOUNDATION BANQUET
Dessert items are provided by members for the banquet’s auction. More than $2,000 was raised in 2022.
ARTICLE BY NIKI CARBAJAL PHOTOGRAPHY BY KAIT TRAMONTEFebruary’s meeting included members hurling axes toward targets at Thrown Axe Co. Every bullseye earned Lovepacs a tenner. Lovepacs founder, Darlene Morton, walked away with more than $350 to use toward students with food insecurities.
Volunteers sorted and hung clothing for Cornerstone’s school clothing event that served hundreds of students.
Ladies were creative with unique bra designs to draw attention to breast cancer awareness and education. A sunflower-themed bra name “Stand tall and face the sun” was awarded first prize.
CLOI is open to members of the Celina Chamber of Commerce.
Learn more at CelinaChamber.org
Celina Ladies of Influence is an excellent venue for growing your business network and meeting new friends. For many, it's the connections and friends made that keep members returning month after month. The relationships that have a genuine interest in your professional and personal success are extremely significant.
As often is the case with interior design, one statement piece can dictate the entire project. It can be something as simple as a paint color, a light fixture, or even a bathtub. This was the case for Humble Home Designs on a recent bathroom remodel in Celina.
Humble Home Designs, owned by Trisha Puente, had one job from the client, to update the guest bathroom and add a bathtub. An unassuming, ordinary remodel ultimately becoming one of the company’s favorite projects to date.
Trisha notes, “The client bought a house without any bathtubs in the bathrooms. She didn’t think much of it until her daughter developed a form of Arthritis and needed the medicinal benefits of soaking in a tub.” After finding the right tub, the entire remodel centered around it. Trisha continued, “It is a 67-inch-long freestanding soaking tub, and truly a showstopper with its structure and beauty.”
One challenge with this remodel was matching the guest room décor to the bathroom. The room is a mix of Texas Country with Saltillo tiles on the floor. Matching the Saltillo tiles was not easy, and Trisha knew she had to update the look by mixing traditional patterns with modern tiles to go with the overall feel of the home.
The client desired Trisha’s creativity with the bathroom decor so Trisha guided her client through the entire process. “The navy color scheme and the shower fixtures really make the tub pop,” Trisha said. “It turned an outdated bathroom into something beautiful and stylish, but practical.”
Although the bathroom looks completely different and brand new, Trisha’s team kept the existing light fixture and vanity. This is helpful when trying to stay on budget, according to Trisha, as a remodel does not mean you have to get rid of everything but rather focus on signature pieces, or a particular wallpaper or color.
Lastly, the clients wanted to move a wall back, plus change the entrance to the room. The original door entry was enclosed turning a hall closet into a guest suite entry. This process isn’t as easy as it looks on popular do-it-yourself television shows as there is always a potential for surprises. For this project, Trisha’s team had to rework electrical in the ceiling and add beams for support.
But that arduous task created a charming niche that truly gives the bathroom additional personality. Trisha also found unique bath linens further complimenting the overall appearance, and the client placed a small table at the entrance completing the look.
Once again, Trisha Puente and Humble Home Designs created an unexpected masterpiece. She proved that a “humble” bathroom remodel with great design, an eye-catching fixture, and creativity can produce an amazing transformation.
Reach Trisha Puente of Humble Home Designs at 214.934.9012
Mention “Celina Lifestyle” for $150 off your next project of $1,000 or more
The bathtub is a 67-inch-long freestanding soaking tub and truly a showstopper with its structure and beauty. When delivered it looked overwhelming and too much for the size of the room but fit perfectly creating the entire ambiance of the decor.
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We treat all foot concerns from painful ingrown toenails to surgical correction of bunion deformity.
Celina, TX 75009
WELCOME TO 4 HOOVES FOR HEARTS!
We are excited to bring equine therapy to the Celina area!
The mission of 4 Hooves For Hearts is to enhance individual, family, & group functioning by providing opportunities to develop skills for solving problems, overcoming obstacles, and reaching individual, family or group goals through Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) using the EAGALA method. Our vision is to build strong relationships through Equine-Assisted growth and learning activities. Our goals are to improve communication, stimulate creativity in thinking, teach patience, build trust in relationships, and improve self-esteem. FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE!
(972) 382-6783 | 4HOOVESFORHEARTS.ORG
Honeysuckle Rose Boutique located on the downtown Square is known for carrying the season's hottest styles in women's fashion. Now, owner Lauren Bell brings the hottest craze to Celina by adding a Hat Bar. Here you can build the hat of your dreams or host a hat party with your friends and enjoy sips while you get to styling. Learn more at HoneysuckleRose.com, 322 W. Walnut
As a leading emerging city in the United States, Celina fosters one of the most unique blends of history and progress. In this historic Texas hometown, we preserve our past and honor the traditions that have shaped us. Residents and visitors can immerse themselves in the endearing charm of yesterday as they stroll through Celina’s beloved historic downtown square and neighborhoods, stop by our heritage museum, or traverse across our remaining brick streets. Along with that rich
heritage, we bear a bold and strategic vision for tomorrow. Through our high standards for developing family-friendly neighborhoods, the success of our locally supported businesses, and Celina ISD’s award-winning schools, this truly is the most attractive and charming place in Texas to live, work, and raise a family. Those who visit or plant here will join those who have lived here for generations in quickly understanding why our motto in Celina is “Life Connected".
MONUMENT OF THE PAST LIGHTING OUR FUTURE AND SERVING AS A BEACON FOR SMALL BUSINESS
ARTICLE BY CELINA EDCFew iconic places or things are venerated in Celina more than our historic water tower. Standing at a tall watch overlooking our downtown square, the water tower has been a beacon welcoming folks home for generations. The foresight of city leaders in March of 2017 perpetually preserved this icon from being torn down as it aged beyond repair. Their bold investment structurally repaired and undergirded the water tower so it could stand and be illuminated for generations more. Though no longer a part of the water infrastructure in Celina, it will forever rise as a monument to the past and to light the ways of time for decades to come.
The Celina EDC, recognizing the community’s shared love for this iconic treasure, recently set out to adapt its image into all branding for our work with local businesses and in our recruiting efforts around the country. Over a year ago, the EDC formed a group of longtime residents and some new to the area to strategically identify ways to use the water tower image as a beacon for small business, just as it served to welcome families across time. Along with the image, a slogan would be adopted that could tell our story in just a few words. From the discussions came our new water tower logo and the motto, “Hometown Spirit. Business Friendly.”
Rolling out the new marketing campaign would take time, but the EDC board knew immediately that a scaled replica of the water tower would be a fitting tribute to the icon and a memorable visual at trade shows, EDC gatherings, and in special moments around town. In January, the 450-pound replica arrived, and it has already been the envy of other communities who boast a heritage like ours. The tribute tower looks and lights up exactly
like our tower downtown. Locals will soon see this regularly displayed and illuminated at the EDC office on the historic downtown square.
Make no mistake, this effort is underway not to idolize a tower but to reflect to the world the beautiful heart and soul of our community. We want to inform those wishing to thrive here that Celina is a place where businesses help businesses and where people help people. Relationships make or break businesses in this city. From discussions with commercial brokers, to dreaming with developers, to sitting down with architects, engineers, designers, and builders, our EDC instills our heritage and our values while working to incentivize toward the future.
Some may be surprised by the way we economically develop and incentivize in Celina, but most have grown to appreciate it. They value that fact that the city will not acquiesce to the strongest developer’s arm on a deal. We simply cannot. Celina has tripled in population growth over the past decade, and there is no sign to an end of that multiplying effect. Knowing that, our response and our responsibility is crystal clear: we are going to work hard to guard and maintain the DNA of our community—one that prioritizes people—and from that, we know that the economics of the growth will follow. Simply stated, that’s Hometown Spirit. Business Friendly.
CelinaEDC.com
Thank you to the Celina EDC for sharing this article with our readership. If you have an editorial piece for consideration in our publication, please send to Barbara.Ireland@CityLifestyle.com
"Standing at a tall watch overlooking our downtown square, the water tower has been a beacon welcoming folks home for generations."
Nothing says spring like the aroma of fresh cut herbs in a crisp, cold, cocktail. With warmer weather finally here, growing herbs at home can transform your cocktail hour and add a fresh kick to your springtime favorites.
Growing herbs is incredibly easy and can be done in a variety of ways- from a container in a window, to a planter box in the yard. With a container or garden full of fresh herbs, you will be ready to take your cocktails up a notch.
Basil is a bright herb that is easy to grow and perfect for cocktails. Make sure and harvest immediately before mixing drinks and take leaves from the top to ensure a continual harvest. Fresh muddled basil leaves lend a crispness to the Gin Basil Cucumber cocktail.
Sage is easy to grow and does well in containers. The leaves add an earthy freshness to a refreshing cherry infused Bourbon.
Mint is also easy to grow, but give it lots of room, as it likes to spread out and is virtually indestructible in the garden. Mint is a versatile herb but is especially lovely in the Rhubarb Mint Mojito.
Try recreating these refreshing cocktails with herbs grown at home and take your cocktail game to new heights!
ARTICLE BY TARA NORRIS PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADALYN SINCLAIR• 2 oz. cherry-sage infused Bourbon
• 0.75 oz. apple brandy or apple jack brandy
• Place over an ice ball in an old fashion glass
• Top with ginger beer and garnish with Bordeaux cherries and leaf of sage
• 2 oz. white rum
• 1 oz. rhubarb puree (2 cups rhubarb, 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup water)
• 0.5 oz. fresh lime juice
• 8-10 fresh mint leaves
• soda water
• lemon lime soda
• ice
• Muddle mint, lime juice, and rhubarb puree in a glass or small cocktail shaker
• Once muddled, add the white rum and ice
• Top with large cocktail shaker and shake for a few seconds
• Remove large shaker and pour everything into a glass
• Top with more ice
• Add soda water and lemon-lime soda (equal parts to your liking)
• Garnish with mint leaf and lime wheel
• 2-3 fresh basil leaves
• 0.5 oz. fresh lime juice
• 0.25 oz. simple syrup
• 2-3 cucumber slices
• 2 oz. gin
• tonic water
• Muddle basil, lime juice, simple syrup and cucumber slices together in a small cocktail shaker
• Add gin and ice to cocktail shaker
• Shake well
• Strain over an ice ball
• Top with tonic water and garnish with basil leaf and a cucumber slice
The moms and the mother figures in our lives mean everything to us. They deserve the best every day, of course. But at least one day out of the year, we get to shower them with the same love and thoughtfulness they give to us so selflessly.
This year, we hope you’ll consider some memorable ways to make lasting memories with the mom or mother figure in your life. If you haven’t already planned something special, take a look at our list of ideas and circle your favorites. If you have kids, let them join in the fun too!
Whether you decide to spend a day at home or enjoy a day on the town, these innovative celebration ideas will include fun for the whole family and make Mom feel loved. Whatever activity or surprise you land on to show your mom, wife, sister or maternal figure your appreciation for all they do, the most important thing is that you all get to spend some quality time together.
Take a Flower Arranging Class Mother’s Day arrives just as spring is in full bloom. Take advantage of the season by going to a flower arranging class with mom.
If Mom likes strategizing, challenge her to a friendly board game competition. (And, no, you don’t have to let her win just because it’s Mother’s Day.)
This activity is especially fun if you have a lot of kids who want to get in on the action. Then, when you all get home, you can whip up a treat for Mom with your selections. (Maybe give her a strawberry in a Champagne glass while she waits.)
There’s no day like Mother’s Day to be impulsive! Book a weekend trip for the two of you at a cute B&B in a city Mom has always wanted to visit.
Find a puzzle with an image you know your mom will love (or make a custom one using a photo of the two of you) and put it together over wine and snacks. You’ll be amazed at how much chatting you can get done while puzzling.
Go to a play or a musical — lots of towns even host outdoor theater events.
Spring is here! We compiled a list of flowers that - depending on your planting zone - can be planted in the season.
Plumbago
Has beautiful dark blue or white flowers on a large shrub of 3 to 5 feet. This tends to freeze down in winter and comes back from roots in the spring.
Hibiscus
The tropical variety will not survive the winters so move those pots inside. The plant can get up to 5 feet tall and there are many different colors and varieties. The perennial varieties will freeze to the ground but come back in the spring. The variety Moy Grande is known as the dinner plate hibiscus. The Texas star hibiscus has beautiful flowers in red or white.
Bougainvillea
These colorful plants can be planted in baskets and pots, not in water-logged or low areas where water might collect. They will grow best when given enough space to spread out, and should be planted in an area that will allow them a minimum of 5-6 hours of sunlight every day. Colors include orange, pink, purple, white, red, tangerine and fuschia to name a few.
Purslane
This is great in baskets for trailing leaves with lots of colors. The bees love it!
This 3 to 4-foot bush is a must for monarch lovers. Monarchs feed on the leaves before making their cocoons. It has beautiful orange and yellow flowers.
This is a great hot weather plant that comes in many colors and varieties. Trailing varieties only get about 1 foot tall but can get 3 to 4 feet wide. There are bush varieties that get 4 feet tall and dwarf bushes only get about 2 feet tall. It comes in yellows, purples, reds, oranges, pinks, fuschia, and many others.
This fuzzy light blue flower is a butterfly favorite.
This is another bee and butterfly favorite that grows about 10 to 12 inches tall. There is a graffiti variety in different colors that works in beds or pots.
This plant comes in upright or trailing varieties. There are many colors to choose from: lavender, white with a red center, peach, white and red pink to strawberry.
Sages
There are many varieties of sage. The Texas sage is a shrub that has beautiful lavender flowers - a favorite for bees. They usually bloom around the time it rains. Henry Duelberg variety is a smaller bush 18 to 20 inches tall with blue stalks of blooms. Russian Sage is a tall silver lacey foliage with light blue flower spikes and grows to 4 feet tall. Deer tend to stay away from most of the sages.
ARTICLE BY LORI HAWKINSThis plant makes a large bush of red or pink flowers. It has low water needs once established and can tolerate drought conditions and hot temperatures. Prune back plant in winter if it gets too leggy.
These need more water than most other plants and come in many colors. They are valued for their vibrant colors, abundant blooms, and tolerance for shade.
With lush multicolored leaves, many larger than the palm of your hand, caladiums have become one of the most popular foliage plants for shady or semi-shady gardens—with many recent introductions being sun tolerant.
LITTLE WOODEN PENGUIN | 7:00 PM
Get ready to show off your singing skills or just come out to support your crew as they take the stage. With a wide selection of songs to choose from and the best crowd in town, you're sure to have a blast! This month, we're combining karaoke night with our Cinco de Mayo festivities! LittleWoodenPenguin.com
DOWNTOWN CELINA & THE SQUARE | 2:00 PM
Traditional dances, music, shopping, food, and much more! Join us on the Square for this fun, family-friendly event which raises money for scholarships for local students. The event is from 2:00PM to 10:00PM. For more information, visit CincoDeMayoCelina.com
DOWNTOWN CELINA & THE SQUARE | 2:00 PM
While feasting on one of the largest crawfish boils in Texas, you will enjoy live alligator shows, local vendors offering food, drinks, and unique items, and a large kids zone. Diamond Rio will be performing LIVE on the Centurion American stage! They will be joined by Jeffrey Broussard & The Creole Cowboys and Texas Clearwater Revival. LifeinCelinaTX.com/Events
GENTLE CREEK COUNTRY CLUB | 7:00 AM
Amateurs and seasoned golfers alike take their shots during the annual Cornerstone Golf Classic. The name of the game during this lighthearted tournament is to raise funds for the projects and programs that benefit our neighbors in need. Golfers are eligible for raffle prizes, and awards are given for first, second, and third place, the longest drive, and more. CornerstoneNCT.org
DOWNTOWN CELINA & THE SQUARE | 7:30 PM
Join us in Downtown Celina for FREE live music at the Music on the Square concert presented by our partners at Sinacola featuring a unique local performer. Feel free to dance on the Square or bring chairs and blankets to get cozy while you listen to the music. Food and beverages will be available onsite for purchase! LifeinCelinaTX.com/Events
THE UNIVERSITY OF NORTH TEXAS COLISEUM | 2:00 PM
It's time to celebrate our 2023 Celina High School graduates! This year, the CHS graduation ceremony will be held at the UNT Coliseum, and the doors will be open to the public at 1:00 PM. Seniors, we are so proud of your accomplishments and can't wait to see what your futures hold! For more information, visit CelinaISD.com/o/CHS
Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Celina
Catherine represents North Texas residents and future homeowners, providing a 5 star experience throughout the whole process. Listening to her clients’ needs and aspirations as she creates your ultimate happiness is her #1 goal.
Catherine places a strong value on communication, as she is in constant contact with her clients, providing them with an honest and open approach to the buying and selling process. Her patience, negotiating skills, and marketing abilities have kept her in great demand.
When it comes to marketing Catherine employs innovative marketing strategies and is always leveraging the latest trends for new ways to market a property. Additionally, she uses only the best professional photos, vendors and experts in her database. Resulting in a “team effort” to sell your home or help find the perfect home for you.
Catherine prides herself on staying current on market conditions and area growth that she can always provide the most up to date information to her clients.
The City of Celina will host its largest and most popular annual event, Celina Cajun Fest presented by REX Real Estate, on Saturday, May 13 from 2:00 - 9:00 PM, on the historic Downtown Square. We are excited to announce the lineup for the 2023 Celina Cajun Fest. Grammy Awardwinning and Country Music's very own Diamond Rio will be performing LIVE on the Centurion American stage! They will be joined by Jeffrey Broussard & The Creole Cowboys and Texas Clearwater Revival.
While feasting on one of the largest crawfish boils in Texas, you will enjoy live alligator shows, local vendors offering food, drinks, and unique items, and a large kids zone area with inflatables and carnival rides.
For crawfish tickets and more information, visit LifeInCelinaTX.com/Cajun