Conroe, TX September 2023

Haley Jamison Realtor®

Neal Hogg Realtor®

Steven Paul Boll Realtor® Myka Zito Realtor®

Ute Busse Realtor®

Lisa Gregory Founder | Broker | Realtor®

Cheryl VanBebber Realtor®

Our Own Sense of Style

I am not a designer, but I know what I like. So when I first toured Conroe's new Hyatt Regency Hotel and Convention Center nestled in the pines below the Southern Loop of 336, I immediately set about arranging to do our fall fashion shoot there. I knew its Mid-Century Modern and Scandinavian-inspired designs would provide the perfect backdrops for all the stylish clothing we gathered from our local boutiques. Now you can see if you agree.

This month's cover model is near and dear to me, but that is not why I chose the photograph to grace our cover. This image represents Conroe's independent and unique nature. People here are ever mindful of heritage and deftly balance forces from within and without while displaying a strength and beauty that others should marvel at. Moreover, the cover and the pages within prove you need to go no further than Conroe to find exquisite style.

Our fashion shoot required a lot of cooperation from area stores and boutiques, and I am most grateful for their willingness to provide it. Special appreciation must go to Alyssa Jackson for acting as my style coordinator for the shoot, and my thanks also go out to Rachel Thomas's team at The Beauty Lounge.

Thomas’s Conroe partner, Hannah Riley, not only modeled for us but also brought Kami Rafati, Hadleigh Perkins, and Monica Fridell, who owns Mod Boutique. These makeup artists and hair stylists worked tirelessly during a full day of shooting to keep our models, plus those with The Woodlands City Lifestyle team, all looking camera ready. Of course, heartfelt thanks must also go to Sophia Kendall, Anna Zimmerman, Hannah Riley, Monica Fridell, and Gladys Pierson of the Pierson Firm for agreeing to model for us. Ladies, we could not have done it without you! And to the staff at the Hyatt, thank you for being so accommodating.

As if that isn't enough, in this issue, we also show you how a local Montgomery couple's dream is bringing style into people's lives across the country. Tara and Jordan Austin operate two upscale apparel stores in Montgomery, but the online reach of Ruthie Grace and Forged 86 is national. We introduce you to Lisa Gregory. She is an accomplished real estate broker with a keen eye for style. Plus, we talk about the iconic nature of denim and the trending art of thrifting.

ALISON KARTEVOLD, PUBLISHER @CONROECITYLIFESTYLE

September 2023

PUBLISHER

Alison Kartevold | Alison.Kartevold@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Margie Taylor | margie.taylor@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Kimberly Sutton, Morgan Freeman, Melanie Saxton

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Shannon Matlock, Becca Woods, Kimberly Sutton

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall

LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster

city scene

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1: The finalists at the 2023 Athena Awards-Dr. Ann Snyder, Judge Kathleen Hamilton, and Sonya Brazeal. 2: Erin Brockovich and 2023 Athena Award recipient Judge Kathleen Hamilton 3: The Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber Staff with Erin Brockovich. 4: The 2023 Athena Committee with Erin Brockovich. 5: President/CEO Scott Harper of the Conroe Chamber, with his leading ladies, Laine and Jennifer Harper. 6: Erin Brockovich was the guest speaker at the annual Athena Awards honoring women in leadership. 7: Rebecca McDonald, Committee Chair for Athena Awards, Judge Kathleen Hamilton, Traci Costa, Monette Smith Photography by Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber of Commerce

Upscale Resale

business monthly

A

round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Constable Cash Named Constable of Year in Texas

Thursday, June 29, Constable Philip Cash was named Constable of the Year for the State of Texas by the Justices of the Peace and Constables Association of Texas (JPCA) for 2023 at their annual conference in San Antonio, Texas. The JPCA is the largest organization of elected officials in Texas, with over 2,100 members. Constable Cash is also committed to keeping Lake Conroe a safe place to boat and has implemented a Safe Boaters Initiative.

Photography: Constable Philip Cash

Oleon Americas Opens in Conroe

Belgium-based Oleon specializes in natural chemistry to produce chemicals used in everyday products. The company converts natural fats and oils into oleochemicals, which combine high performance and biodegradability. Oleon’s natural chemistry ingredients can be found in automotive lubricants, crop protection, cosmetics, detergents, and many other products. Oleon.com

Photography: Oleon

Benihana Open in Conroe

Benihana opened their fifth Houston area restaurant in Conroe on July 13. The new restaurant is at 3061 Interstate 45 North in the Teas Crossing Shopping Center at N. FM 3083 Rd. and N. Frazier St. Occupying 7,000 square feet, the new restaurant seats guests in a contemporary Japanese setting and features 17 teppanyaki tables and an expansive sushi and cocktail bar.

Photography: Benihana Conroe

Oscar Johnson Jr, Community Center held Groundbreaking

The Oscar Johnson, JR Community Center held a groundbreaking in July with Conroe officials and Ruby Johnson, wife of the late Oscar Johnson, Jr. Oscar Johnson, Jr was the City of Conroe's first black City Councilman with a servant's heart. He died at the age of 52 in 1993. The community center will be located on 25 acres near South loop 336 and Foster Road.

Photography: City of Conroe

New VFW in Montgomery

Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 12223 opened in July on the west side of Montgomery County to help support both Montgomery ISD and Willis ISD schools through the Americanism Program to educate students about our country's history. The commander of the post is Micheal JohnFoy Day who has worked tiredlessly to get the post open. Located at the Lone Star Community Center in Montogomery, follow their Facebook page for information. Facebook.com/ VFWPost12223

Photography: Taylorized PR

Mario Castello named Chancellor at Lone Star College

Chancellor Stephen Head announced his retirement in January and the Board of Trustees chose Mario Castello as the sole finalist among four other candidates. Castillo will be the first Hispanic Chancellor at the Lone Star College System. Castillo served as Chief Operating Officer and General Counsel. He was the College’s General Counsel in 2015; was promoted to Vice Chancellor and General Counsel in 2016; and was promoted to Chief Operating officer and General Counsel in 2017.

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Fall Fashion Fits

ARTICLE BY ALISON KARTEVOLD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BEX WOOD

This season, a quiet movement is afoot to bring a little more style back into our wardrobes. People finally seem ready to move away from the slouchy hoody and yoga pants that became our uniforms as we worked from home and hid from covid.

Don’t get me wrong, I love me some good leisure wear, but there is a time and a place for everything. Yes, Conroe is casual, but casual does not mean devoid of style. Conroe style has a playful sophistication that ranges from traditional to modern, and you need look no further than the growing collection of boutiques and stores in our area to find some on-trend fits for fall.

While comfort remains a top priority, people are reengaging with the world outside their homes, so now’s the time to start doing a little peacocking of your own. Pops of “Orange Violet,” “Persian Jewel” purple, and “Amazon” green have joined the more traditional “Doe,” “Caramel Cafe,” and “Polar Night” to form the Pantone palettes that make up this year’s fall staples. Whether you are dressing for everyday casual, business-friendly, or a night out, all the clothing featured here comes from stores in our area.

CONTINUED >

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Main Street Merchants business attire

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Mod Boutique “Autume Blonde” Bee Mosaic Jacket and “Burnt Sienna” dress

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Beauty Lounge bodysuit, leather shorts, “amazon” green blazer. Jewelry from Jordan Loves James

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Main Street Merchants top/blazer, Cavender’s jeans

Taking cues from Pantone’s Autumn/ Winter 2023/2024 NY Fashion Week color schemes, each shop builds lines that strive into the future. Pantone says their color choices signify a desire to communicate the joy of creativity and design back into our lives.

“Colors for Autumn/Winter 2023/2024 NYFW reach out beyond what we think

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Beige 2-piece casual set with accessories from Mod Boutique, denim jacket/boots from Main Street Merchants, dress from Sweet Texas Treasures

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Mod Boutique “Doe” colored top, crossbody bag, and leopard print skirt from Beauty Lounge, shoes from MOD Boutique

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Lace top from Mod Boutique, layered sweater from Cavender’s, and jeans from Main Street Merchants, jewelry from Jordan Loves James

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Main Street Merchants Flowing Komoto Pant Suit from Powder UK

is possible to catapult us into this new era, taking us to a place where boundaries of time, place, and identity are no longer fixed,” says Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director, Pantone Color Institute.

I want to thank Mod Boutique, Main Street Merchants, Sweet Texas Treasures, Diva Boutique, The Beauty Lounge, Cavender’s Boot City, and Jordan Loves James for allowing us to dress our models with their wears and create some fun and fantastic looks during our photo shoot at Conroe’s new Hyatt Regency Hotel and Convention Center.

| IMAGE 9 Main Street Merchants “Lava Falls” dress, “Martini Olive” dress from Mod Boutique, skirt from Beauty Lounge, black knit top from Cavender’s

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Diva Boutique “Polar Night” colored pants suit

DR. GUY BURROWS M. D. is a board-certified neurologist with fellowship training in peripheral nerve disorders and neuromuscular diseases. In 2006, Dr. Burrows established a neuromuscular and peripheral nerve disorder medical practice in Beverly Hills and Palm Springs, California, with hospital affiliations at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles and Desert Regional Medical Center in Palm Springs.

For five years prior to opening the Burrows Muscle and Nerve Center, Dr. Burrows M.D. provided neuromuscular and peripheral nerve disorders care and served as the Director of Infusions at Mischer Neuroscience AssociatesThe Woodlands.

WE TREAT THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS AND MORE

• Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)

• Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP)

• Guillain-Barre syndrome

• Inflammatory myopathies

• Mitochondria disorders

• Multi-focal motor neuropathy (MMN)

• Muscle disease disorders

• Muscular dystrophy (MD)

• Myasthenia gravis (MG)

• Myopathy/inflammatory myopathy

• Myositis immune-related polyneuropathy

• Peripheral neuropathy

• Polymyositis

• Unexplained numbness and tingling

OFFERING THE FOLLOWING CLINICAL SERVICES:

• EMG Studies/Nerve Conduction Studies

• Neuromuscular and Peripheral Nerve Disorder Evaluations

• Muscle, Nerve and Skin Biopsies

• IVIG and Biologic Infusion Services

• Botox Injections for spasms

For a full spectrum of services and diagnoses, visit our website www.BurrowsMuscleAndNerve.com

281.404.3666

• 9191 Pinecroft Drive, Suite 200, Shenandoah, TX 77380

Office Hours: Monday through Friday 8:00am–5:00pm

• www.burrowsmuscleandnerve.com

THRIFTING IS TRENDING

Shop Locally without Guilt for Clothing, Household Items, and Furniture!

When Alyssa Jackson, owner of After Our’s Vintage , combs through the racks of area thrift stores, looking for the perfect pieces to curate for sale, she sees individuals. “It’s almost a collection of all these parts of my life and people in my life,” she says of her thrifting process. One piece will remind her of her sister and another of her best friend. Thinking of others is a popular theme in the thrifting world, and Montgomery County is full of fashionistas and do-gooders shopping to make the world a better and more stylish place.

ARTICLE BY MORGAN FREEMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

After Ours Vintage-Classic Barbie as seen in summer hit movie, Barbie Jazzy Junque

Upscale Clothing from Assistance League of Montgomery County

Jazzy Junque has an assortment of furniture, glassware, ceramics, lamps, and more!

You wouldn’t know it looking from Interstate 45, but the almost abandoned Conroe Outlet Mall houses one of the liveliest stores in Conroe: Jazzy Junque . Mothers of the store, Odette D’Agostino, Nanci Day, and Michelle Willie, can only be described as charitable co-conspirators. The shop supports New Danville, an organization that seeks to serve adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities through day programs and a residential community.

The women don’t like the “thrift store” title and prefer it to be called an upscale resale shop. Odette says if the item isn’t quality, they don’t put it out, and it shows. Walking into the store’s 10,000-squarefoot space is like entering a department store. A regular named Betty, says she comes to Jazzy Junque to “shop for whoever, wherever, needs whatever.” The store offers an assortment of fine furniture, glassware, books, jewelry, and more.

“By shopping at Something Special Store, you are helping to keep our doors open,” says Melanie Jackman, director of residential services for the Montgomery County Women’s Center. She doesn’t mean the doors to the store.

In 2022, their emergency shelter was accessed by 1,056 victims of domestic abuse or sexual assault. All donated items are given directly to the women the organization serves or are sold in the store, where proceeds go right back toward the cause. They always need donations, and there are plenty of cool items to thrift. While they can have anything and everything, Melanie notes that there is an extensive shoe department, lots of lamps, and a great selection of wedding dresses. The store also hosts community events during October, Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and April, Sexual Assault Awareness Month.

Angels Loft is another local thrift shop supporting

a great cause. Angel Reach runs a transitional living program for kids who have aged out of the foster care system and assists kinship placement of families. Executive Director of Angel Reach, Jean Radach, started as a volunteer. She remembers back when they only had one house. Kids were literally knocking on the door, looking for some support. As the donations rolled in, the organization decided to sell excess contributions to raise money. Beyond raising funds, the store also serves as a place of employment for young adults needing a paycheck or experience for their resumes. If you’re looking to get some new items for a great price, Angels Loft often gets donations of Amazon overstock items. Unique finds more your taste? Strangely, Angels Loft once got a donation of over 250 Cuckoo Clocks. People always ask Pippa Williams, “Where should I donate my clothes?” She answers by telling them to find what they are passionate about. Pippa, one-half of Too Cheap Chicks (the other half is Jen Meneely), has completed over 200 television segments on thrifting, showing the world how to look good on a budget. Even with all the press, she says they don’t make any money on their Facebook or Instagram and instead like to help nonprofits. The focus on service is inherited from Pippa’s mother, who volunteered at the Assistance League. Now Pippa, who serves on the advisory board, helps out the organization with their social media presence. While the Assistance League thrift shop supports multiple causes, Operation School Bell is a signature program. Underprivileged children are given vouchers to shop for brand-new clothes at the beginning of the school year. Pippa notes how important being able to pick out their own clothes is to the kids. If you’re passionate about helping the kiddos, the Assistance League is your place to thrift.

“By shopping at Something Special Store, you are helping to keep our doors open,” says Melanie Jackman, director of residential services for the Montgomery County Women’s Center.”

After Ours Vintage-Pea Handbag by Alyssa Jackson

Angels Loft by Angel Reach

Assistance League of Montgomery County

Vintage Records and games at the Assistance League of Montgomery County

After Ours Vintage-Classic Barbie by Alyssa Jackson

Something Special The Women’s Center

Assistance League of Montgomery County

Jazzy Junque

After Ours Vintage-Classic Barbie by Alyssa Jackson

Selling with Southern Heritage Realty

NEW BROKERAGE, NEW APPROACH, CLASSIC STYLE

ARTICLE BY KIMBERLY SUTTON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KIMBERLY SUTTON

Imagine walking into your dream home, where you always wanted a lovely house on acreage with some chickens and a vegetable garden or a sprawling outdoor living space with a deck and swimming pool.

Lisa Gregory finds helping individuals and families find a home that perfectly fits their needs and lifestyle indescribably rewarding. As a native Texan, born and raised in the southeast part of the state, she has an in-depth knowledge of Montgomery County. She knows the best neighborhoods and schools and the finest shopping areas and restaurants.

“This expertise allows me to offer valuable insights and guidance to clients, helping them make the most informed decisions possible,” Gregory says. “Through the years, I’ve grown from a single agent to leading a highly successful team, and now proudly owning my very own brokerage, Southern Heritage Realty. I have had the privilege of guiding clients through one of the most important transactions of their lives, and every testimonial reminds me of why I love what I do.”

Lisa Gregory- defining a new style for selling homes.

Gregory has been showing and selling properties for over 15 years, and before her career change, she was an English professor at Sam Houston State University. She has been a lifelong resident of the Houston/Galveston area and lived in The Woodlands for many years, where she still maintains an office. After her boys went off to college, she and her husband downsized and are now enjoying lake living on Lake Conroe. What she loves most about her job is helping others and building long-term professional relationships with her clients.

Montgomery County is the 11th largest county in Texas. The 2010 population was 455,746, and since then, it has grown 46.98 percent. Each month after the Covid Pandemic of 2020, people

have continued to set their sights on Texas and Montgomery County. Between 2010 and 2021, the county grew by an average of 3.2 percent per year. The population estimate for 2023 is 669,853, with a growth rate of 2.52 percent in the past year, according to the most recent United States census data.

“The pandemic prompted people to reevaluate their living situation and their overall quality of life,” Gregory says. “They now have high priorities like space, convenience, outdoor amenities, and access to nature-- all of which Montgomery County offers. Montgomery County has grown exponentially because of this, and one of our goals is to introduce others to the amazing possibilities that our area offers.”

Lisa is like her classic corvette, stable and not going anywhere!

According to Gregory, her business is a reflection and statement of who her team is and what they value.

“As a native of this area, I am ‘rooted’ in this community and committed to its growth and strength. I also often use my classic 1960 Corvette in my marketing, because it is symbolic of permanence and stability. Like my car, we are also a product of our ‘heritage’ and also are here to stay for the long run.

Gregory is exceptionally proud of her business’s long-standing and stellar reputation in the local real estate market.

“Our clients know we have a track record of delivering quality service and exceptional results, and that is why they continue to refer us to their families, friends, and co-workers. They trust us,” says Gregory.

“Timeless values of integrity, honesty, and personalized attention are essential to building strong and lasting relationships. Classic service and heritage translate to a sense of continuity, authenticity, and commitment. We attract clients who appreciate these values, and this focus has led to our long-term success in the local real estate industry.”

Southern Heritage Realty isn’t just about building a business. “It is about continuing a legacy of exceptional service, profound market knowledge, and having sincere relationships built on trust,” she says.

Call her today and let Southern Heritage Realty help you buy or sell your home. Remember, in real estate, dreams can become reality.

Visit her website at southernheritagetx.com and on Facebook at Southern Heritage Realty.

“I am ‘rooted’ in this community. I also often use my classic 1960 Corvette in my marketing, because it is symbolic of permanence and stability.”

One of the many homes with Southern Heritage Realty

Iconic Denim Now and Forever

THE FABRIC THAT SPEAKS TO US ALL

ARTICLE BY MORGAN FREEMAN

PHOTOGRAPHY BY BEX WOOD

Boomers and Gen Z may not share much, but one fashion trend continues to offer common ground. They all have a favorite pair of jeans. While denim may have started as a practical fabric for working long, hard hours, today, it lives as an ever-present staple in the wardrobe of every man, woman, and child.

In this great state of Texas, denim goes further, from crossing generations to crossing into the psyche of culture. You can’t have Texas without Western wear, and you can’t have Western wear without denim. Imagine dancing at Dalton’s or strolling the grounds at the Montgomery County Fair without a single pair of blue jeans in sight. The image is foreign enough to border on inconceivable. This is because denim has achieved icon status, not just in Texan and American culture but particularly in Conroe.

Main Street Merchants sweater/ boots, denim from Cavender's

Sweet Texas Treasures knows something about icons. James Dean, Betty White, and Dolly Parton gaze at shoppers from their enshrinement on votive candles while shop owner Morgan Calhoun (who happens to have icon-themed paint on her nails: a tribute to the movie Jaws) shares the scoop on what’s trending in denim jeans. “There is a big push for heavy cotton jeans with sustainability,” Morgan says. Jeans with a higher percentage of cotton won’t wear out as fast as those made to stretch, containing manufactured fibers that melt over time as you wash and dry your jeans.

Morgan advises 100% cotton jeans only if the fit is good. Judy Blues are the way to go if you’re a bit “hippier” or have weight fluctuations. The brand balances quality with the right amount of stretch. While Sweet Texas Treasures’ number one brand comes in all the different cuts, Morgan says it would be flare, boyfriend, and skinny if she had to pick three. Flare is great to pair with a chunky shoe on a night out, while boyfriend is perfect for more casual looks, and skinny works when you want to show off your boots.

Ashlin Brenner and Peyton Kelley, sales associates at Cavender’s in Conroe, see a lot of denim move in and out of their store. The Conroe location is number one in the chain (of which there are 100) for sales in ladies’ denim and the top ten for men’s denim. On the top, they say that mid-rise and highrise are popular, and, on the bottom, flare and trouser cuts. Like Morgan Calhoun, they see a lot of desire for boyfriend jeans. Rather than looking for boyfriend style jeans made for women, many female shoppers come to Cavender’s and head straight to the men’s side in search of Wranglers. While a popular choice for decades with ladies who ride horses, Pinterest and TikTok have blown up the trend by showcasing how flattering men’s jeans can be on women’s bodies.

“There is a big push for heavy cotton jeans with sustainability,” says Morgan Calhoun of Sweet Texas Treasures.

Mod Boutique provides top/ bag, denim from Cavender's, shoes from Main Street Boutique, jewelry from Jordan Loves James

What’s popular in the men’s department with men? Chris Hargrave, the manager of Cavender’s in Conroe, says he has seen a move away from high-waisted, thicker jeans to those more mid-rise with a little stretch. “It doesn’t cut you in half when you sit down,” he says of the newer style, and they allow more flexibility of movement while working. Some sacrifice is made in durability and the fabric’s ability to hold starch, but Chris believes that the manufacturers have found a good balance between quality and comfort. The two most popular cuts with men are boot and a slight flare.

Chris says Paramount Network’s Yellowstone has done for this decade what Urban Cowboy did in the 80s. At Halloween, the store is full of men looking to costume themselves as Rip Wheeler. He sees men and women willing to push their previous fashion limits by wearing denim on top, as well as on the bottom, mainly in the form of jackets, vests, and shirts. Seeing the show’s popular characters clad from head to toe in Western-style garments, he thinks, is the force driving some to step out of their comfort zone and into double denim.

In downtown Conroe, over on Metcalf Street, the trend of women seeking men’s Wranglers continues. Farralyn Withrow, owner of Small Town Famous, says that’s what the shop is known for and agrees that men’s jeans fit women’s bodies really well. She describes her store as a “curated collection of vintage western wear,” while the store carries a few new things, you’ll mostly find a rad assortment of authentic vintage items.

“Jeans with a higher percentage of cotton won’t wear out as fast as those made to stretch with man-made fibers that melt over time as you wash and dry your jeans.”

Demim pieces from Main Street Merchants, top/boots from Cavender's, Jewelry from Jrdan Loves James

Small Town Famous is the place to start if you want to try vintage clothing but don’t want to do the searching yourself. Farralyn has already spent hours scouring the internet, searching thrift stores, and working her contacts to put together a variety of items that fit current trends.

Coastal Cowgirl has been big, with denim skirts being a favored choice to achieve the look.

The coolest denim in the store? Farralyn loves the popular 90s Rockies jeans, a style with a high waist and no pockets. The store boasts several colorful pairs originally owned by a cowgirl who competed in the National Finals Rodeo. The cowgirl is now in her 50s, but her style is passed

on to the young women whose fondness of the jeans is giving them a second life. Another favorite is the 70s flare jeans that remind Farralyn of Dazed and Confused

While denim has undoubtedly solidified its place in the past and present as an icon of fashion, what about the future? When asked if she thinks we will wear denim in the perhaps eventual Mars colonies, Morgan Calhoun says she isn’t sure. However, she does quote a boutique-owning friend who says all styles of denim are here to stay.

Top/boots from Cavender's, denim from Sweet Texas Treasures, and jewelry from Jordan Loves James

Main Street Merchants

Bring Your Escape to Life with Coburn’s

Whether you’re looking for a single fixture upgrade or to transform your entire bathroom, Coburn’s Kitchen & Bath Showroom delivers the styles and details you need to bring home beauty and functionality. Every product on our shelf is designed with modern engineering and quality materials — a combination that will make your everyday living simply extraordinary.

Coburn’s. Your Project Partner.

930 S. Frazier Street Conroe, TX 77301

Monday – Friday 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (After-hours appointments are available)

(936) 760-3900

CoburnsProjectPartner.com

Susan Scott Watts

RUTHIE GRACE AND FORGED 86

Local husband and wife team run hometown stores with national reach!

Tara and Jordan Austin are a dynamic pair of entrepreneurs who run two upscale apparel stores in Montgomery, Ruthie Grace and Forged 86. If you’re looking for clothing that ranges from whimsical and leisurely to office-friendly and special occasions, you’ll find it at their storefronts or online.

The college sweethearts met at Texas A&M and have recently celebrated their 14th wedding anniversary. They are raising three boys who love baseball, and the family manages to carve out “together” time while operating their busy local stores and filling online shopping orders.

The Ruthie Grace and Forged 86 websites sell attire nationwide, and Tara and Jordan attribute their popularity to inventories that customers want and need, next-level customer service, and a fun and uplifting social media presence.

RUTHIE GRACE

When Ruthie Grace opened 12 years ago, Tara, a Montgomery native, put a lot of thought into the boutique’s branding. The middle names of her grandmothers, Ruth and Grace, have been in her family for generations, and the combination became the perfect name for the store, capturing a sense of family, faith, and community. “Going outside

of Montgomery was never a question,” says Tara. “We built our lives here. This is home, where we want to be.”

From an initial 900-square-foot retail space, Ruthie Grace has evolved into a flagship boutique in the heart of Montgomery, where shoppers enjoy a mix of upscale vibe, hometown charm, and family-centered operations. “Jordan built the flagship store and collaborated with designers to brand the shopping experience,” says Tara. “He left his construction career at the end of 2020 to help me grow our retail business.”

Ruthie Grace has blossomed into a go-to destination for year-round fashion, from dresses to belted rompers to shoes, handbags, and so much more—perfect for wardrobe refreshes, one-of-a-kind classics, and seasonal picks. Ruthie Grace also recently launched Coastal Cowgirl Collection—a hit! Chances are that shoppers in Montgomery know the retail staff personally and recognize the local website models Lynsey Hedrick, Britt McGee, and Madison Muir. The inventory is updated frequently, with new merchandise and specials announced on social media and the store’s website. Occasional virtual warehouse sales are also exciting events for loyal customers.

ARTICLE BY MELANIE SAXTON PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Ruthie Grace

FORGED 86

Jordan began conceptualizing a men’s retail store based on his own personal shopping needs. Rather than visiting numerous stores and websites, he envisioned a one-stop shop where men could find all-occasion clothing and quality brands—shirts, pants, outerwear, shoes, accessories, and more.

“There was an obvious gap in the men’s retail market, and it became our new venture,” says Jordan, who filled the void with Forged 86, their second Montgomery flagship located one store away from Ruthie Grace. He became the general contractor for the monumental design-build construction journey and captured every step on Instagram.

As part of the creative process, Tara and Jordan once again considered store names that reflect their values and beliefs. The notion that “forged” means becoming new and unique, combined with Jordan’s birth year (1986), resonated as the exact right name for their latest retail enterprise. “We also named the dressing rooms in honor of our dads, the men who raised us,” says Jordan.

The result is a masculine, organized shopping environment that is deeply rooted in the community and shares the same expert styling, upscale vibe, and hometown charm as Ruthie Grace. Forged 86 is filled with Jordan’s favorite personal brands, with lots of options and an inventory curated from customer feedback and requests. It’s the place to shop for an array of golf, outdoor, and leisurewear, as well as business casual, Western wear, accessories, and hard-to-find brands crafted for durability and longevity. Jordan, along with Chris Tarver, Riley Davis, and Kyle Gragg (store manager), model the apparel online and are personally invested in selection, quality, and fit.

FIND AND CONNECT

The Ruthie Grace and Forged 86 storefronts draw visitors from Conroe, Willis, Woodforest, and beyond, and online shoppers from all 50 states. “We are deeply passionate about all of our customers, and we can’t wait to meet you,” says Tara.

Ruthie Grace is located at 20165 Eva Street, Suite D, Montgomery, TX 77356. Browse online at shopruthiegrace.com and follow along at instagram.com/shopruthiegrace

Forged 86 is located at 20165 Eva Street, Suite H, Montgomery, TX 77356. Browse online at forged86.com and follow along at instagram.com/forged.86

Owners Tara and Jordan Austin

Tara Austin modeling sassy comfort

events

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

SEPTEMBER 7TH

Thursday Free Concert Series

HERITAGE PLACE PARK | 7:00 PM

Go out to Heritage Place for the Thursday Free Concert Series and enjoy the music of Bon Jovi. Music starts at 7pm with food trucks on site, picnics allowed with lawn chairs, but no glass containers. CityofConroe.org

SEPTEMBER 9TH

KidFishing Derby

CARL BARTON JR PARK- 2500 S. LOOP 336 E. | 9:00 AM

Free Kids Fishing at Carl Barton, Jr park in Conroe. Registration opens at 8am for children and youth aged 3-16 years of age. Bait is provided, bring your own fishing pole. Trophies awarded at 12:15pm. CityofConroe.org

Kiwanis Kid's Day in the Park from 11am-2pm with EMS vehicles, firetrucks, and a helicopter.

SEPTEMBER 15TH

Shoot Out Hunger

BLACKWOOD SPORTING COMPANY | 7:30 AM

Montgomery County Food Bank is aiming high for its 11th annual Shootout Hunger sporting clays tournament on September 15, 2023 at Blackwood Sporting Co. located at 11400 FM 2854 Rd, Conroe, TX 77304. Shootout Hunger, presented by Cowboy Kia, raises awareness and funds to help provide food for children, families and seniors facing hunger in Montgomery County. MCFoodBank.org

SEPTEMBER 16TH-17TH

Montgomery County Fall Home and Outdoor Living Show

LONE STAR CONVENTION CENTER

The show helps you to find home goods, seasonal decor, artisan furniture, products and the right professionals for any type of home improvement or DIY project you have. Sept 16 9:00am-6:00pm through Sept 17 10:00am5:00pm. Teacher's Appreciation - Half-off admission at the door.  Frontline Sunday - All active Military personnel, Veterans, Fire, Police, and First responders receive a free admission at the door, Sunday only. TexwoodShows.com

SEPTEMBER 16TH

Woodforest Bank Charity Run

HERITAGE PLACE PARK IN CONROE | 7:30 AM

Woodforest National Bank® will host the 13th Annual Woodforest Bank Charity Run at Heritage Place Park in downtown Conroe. This year's race will include a 10K run/walk sponsored by Insperity Invitational and a 5K run/walk sponsored by Convergint. 10K run/walk $40; 5K run/walk $35; Barkley Shoe Dash $10 https://runsignup.com/Race/TX/Conroe/WoodforestCharityRun

SEPTEMBER 22ND

Children's Safe Harbor Fundraising Luncheon

APRIL SOUND COUNTRY CLUB, 1000 APRIL SOUND BLVD, MONTGOMERY | 11:00 AM

Children's Safe Harbor will host a fundraising luncheon on Friday, Sept. 22 at April Sound Country Club, 1000 April Sound Blvd., Montgomery TX 77356 from 11am - 1pm, commemorating Children's Safe Harbor's 25th anniversary.   ChildrensSafeHarbor.org

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23rd Annual Dragon Boat Races

NORTHSHORE PARK, LAKE WOODLANDS, THE WOODLANDS

For the 23rd year, teams will race colorful, dragon-headed boats across Lake Woodlands, participate in games and enjoy friendly competition in support of the community-strengthening programs provided by The Woodlands Family YMCA. Learn More: 23rd Annual YMCA Dragon Boat Team Challenge

Houston Folk Festival

HERITAGE PLACE PARK IN CONROE | 10:00 AM

Live music from Grammy Award Winners and Billboard #1 artists performing live on stage, 120 artists & crafters, a farmers market, and many fun contests and attractions. Visit the Taste of Texas Food Garden, with gourmet cuisine, and cold craft beer and wines. Admission is free and parking is free. Get your FREE V.I.P. tickets at https://houstonfolkfestival.com/tickets

Lobsterfest 2023

LONE STAR CONVENTION CENTER-9055 AIRPORT ROAD | 6:00 PM

Join the Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber of Commerce for the annual Lobsterfest fundraiser wwith more than 1,000 community leaders, business owners, elected officials, residents and guests attend the two-day festivities including a steak and lobster dinner, live and silent auction, and lots of fun on Thursday, October 5 followed by a golf tournament on Friday, October 6. chamber.conroe.org/events/details/lobsterfest-2023

All that

Glitters

Jewelry that Tells a Story

ARTICLE BY KIMBERLY SUTTON | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

01 Draw attention with dazzling diamond rings! // 02 Trending bracelets from Camillo’s Jewelry. // 03 Diamond bracelets are more than just “tennis bracelets”. // 04 Lab Grown Diamonds. // 05 Combine pearls with diamonds to create drama. // 06 Feminize an oversized Rolex by layering.

According to Katelyn Camillo-Ennis of Camillo Jewelers in Conroe, the future in jewelry is lab-grown diamonds.

“We will always have Earth-grown diamonds,” Camillo-Ennis says, “but labgrown opens the market to new love, old love, and everything in between.”

Pearls are another trend they are seeing more of, “and we are here for it,” she says. Pearls are the simplest way to dress up any attire and make a statement. “Even repairs bring joy because we take jewelry with a story and sometimes 100 years of history and bring it back to life for the next 100 years to come.”

Her advice: “Every woman needs a Rolex. Owning a Rolex is a statement, a power move, and an investment.”