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S E P TE M B E R 2 02 5

LIFESTYLE LETTER

What’s Your Style? Style is one of the most personal and powerful forms of self-expression. It speaks before words do—and tells the world who we are, what we value, and how we choose to live. In this special Style Issue, we’re honoring the many ways people define and refine their personal aesthetic—through fashion, beauty, home design, and beyond. But style isn’t just about what’s on the outside. It’s a reflection of the inside, of personality and creativity, confidence and individuality. Whether it’s the perfect outfit that makes you feel unstoppable, the way you style your hair or makeup to highlight your favorite features, or the thoughtful details in your home that make every guest feel welcome—style is everywhere. What’s most exciting about style is that there’s no one-size-fits-all. It evolves with us over time, shifting with seasons, moods, and moments. Some days it’s bold and daring; others it’s effortless and minimal. And that’s the beauty of it. Your style doesn’t need permission or approval. It simply needs to be yours. As you explore the stories in this issue, we hope you feel inspired to embrace your own unique style story—whatever it looks like. Take risks, experiment, play with color and texture. Mix high and low. Vintage and modern. Keep what speaks to you and let go of what doesn’t. Use your surroundings, your wardrobe, and your voice to express the most authentic version of you. Because at the end of the day, true style doesn’t just make a statement. It tells your story. Here’s to living boldly, beautifully, and unapologetically in style.

September 2025 PUBLISHER

Angi Burns | angi.burns@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R I AL C O O R D I N ATO R

Mallory McKeever | mallory.mckeever@citylifestyle.com P U B L I CAT I O N D I R E C TO R

Kathy Moreno | kathy.moreno@citylifestyle.com SAL E S M AN AGE R

Angela Martinez | angela.martinez@citylifestyle.com SAL E S M AN AGE R

Brittany McCaffety | brittany.mccaffety@citylifestyle.com STAF F W R I T E R

Fatima Durrani STAF F P H OTO G R AP H E R

Heather Caplick: Heather Lane Photography STAF F W R I T E R

Mallory Newell CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Amy Young, Sophie Betzhold, Pam Reid, Lisa Wolf C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S

Rose Scoggins, Jodie Jolley, Allison Aberdeen Photography, Ally Schoenhofer

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt COO Matthew Perry CRO Jamie Pentz VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich

With Regards,

LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee

ANGI BURNS, PUBLISHER @CROSSTIMBERSCITYLIFESTYLE Are you on the association board for your subdivision? We would love to partner with you to host our events in your neighborhood! Do you have someone you would like to nominate for Student, Educator, Veteran, Athlete, Artist, Good Human, NonProfit or First Responder of the Month? Contact us for information on how you or your nominee can be included in upcoming articles. We encourage you to share your events and ideas with us. Just give us a shout. We want to hear from you.

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Cross Timbers City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Cross Timbers area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle

Visit our Instagram CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/CROSSTIMBERS

L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Cross Timbers City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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inside the issue SE PT EMBER 2 0 2 5 | ST Y L E

18 14

Featured

14 18 22

34 6

Hats Off to Style

Top Off Your Look With a Customized Hat

Wash, Blo, Go

The Empowering Experience of a Professional Blowout

Story of The Rustic Warehouse

Equal Parts Teamwork, Creativity, Coziness, Shared Visions, and Faith

The Colors Bloom

Artist Beth Dilley on Viewing Emotional Landscapes

34 On the Cover

Departments

Model: Macey WIlliams Photographer: Aven Willow Portraits 407 E. Louisiana St., Ste. 105, McKinney, TX 75069 682-233-1188 jodie@ avenwillow.com

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Local Limelight LIFE + CULTURE

Fashion Forward LIFE + CULTURE

Hair Care BEAUTY

Must See ARTS + CULTURE

Artist’s Palette ARTS + CULTURE

Trend Setter ARTS + CULTURE

Inspired By ARTS + CULTURE

Events

Home Update HOME + DESIGN

Photography: Jodie Jolley: Aven Willow Portraits

Some of your most important connections can be found close to home

We work to understand your unique priorities, so we can help you plan for the life you’ve always envisioned. Jeffery Price, CPFA® Managing Director • Wealth Management Advisor 817.410.4940 • jeffery_price@ml.com

Trenton Owens, CPFA®

Connor Price

Senior Vice President • Senior Financial Advisor

Vice President • Financial Advisor

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SEPTEMBER 2025

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

HOTEL NYLO PLANO SEAR STEAKHOUSE & LOUNGE ROCKWALL

NEON CACTUS FAIRVIEW

1-7: Our City Lifestyle team hosts monthly Business Networking Happy Hour events in each of our territories (Allen, Plano, Rockwall and now Cross Timbers). We are excited to begin hosting these interactive opportunities to the Cross Timbers community starting in October. The Burns Team focuses on Relationship Marketing, not advertising. Our goal is to get our partners in the right room with the right people to help grow their businesses and support our community. We creatively connect the community through collaboration and celebration! We can’t wait to meet you.

C I T Y SC E N E

1: Denton County Transportation Authority CEO Paul Cristina presented the future of local transportation to the Cross Timbers Rotary Club. 2: Lori Walker, Flower Mound Chamber President received the Governor's Award from the Cross Timbers Rotary. 3: Cross Timbers Rotary Club President, Bob Phillips welcoming Mr. Cristina.

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S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C RO S ST I M BE R S

SEPTEMBER 2025

business monthly A R O U N D U P O F N E W S F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S

Flower Mound Chamber is Blooming with Business According to Webster’s, networking is “to interact or engage in informal communication with others for mutual assistance or support.” Take advantage of this opportunity to spotlight your business and get direct results through “leads” generated from the group. Leads Networking meets the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month at Keller Williams Dallas Metro North located at 2611 Cross Timbers Rd, Flower Mound, TX 75028 The cost is $5 and includes a light breakfast.

Introducing The Burns Team City Lifestyle We’re excited to introduce the new Cross Timbers Lifestyle operations team! Publisher Angi Burns, Publication Director Kathy Moreno, Sales Managers Angela Martinez and Brittany McCaffety, and Editor Mallory Newell (not pictured) are proud to expand our successful City Lifestyle team into the vibrant Cross Timbers community. We look forward to building strong local connections and continuing the legacy of excellence. Pictured left to right: Angela Martinez, Angi Burns, Kathy Moreno, and Brittany McCaffety.

Congratulations Dr. Lori Rapp, Lewisville Superintendent Lewisville ISD Superintendent of Schools Dr. Lori Rapp has been named the 2025 Region 11 Superintendent of the Year by the Texas Association of School Boards (TASB). This prestigious honor recognizes Dr. Rapp’s exceptional leadership, vision, and lifelong commitment to public education. Since her appointment in 2022, she has united the LISD community under a shared mission of excellence, and built a culture rooted in trust, belonging, and student-focused decision-making. Photography by Lewisville Independent School District

Want to be featured? G E T I N T O U C H AT C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E . C O M / C R O S S T I M B E R S

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ARTICLE BY RACHAEL FENTON & ANGI BURNS PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROSE SCOGGINS & JODIE JOLLEY

PA S SI NG THE Torch LEAVING A LEGACY AND LEADING THE WAY

Cross Timbers Family, It has been a blessing to be your Publisher and friend. As I conclude my two-year journey, I’m filled with gratitude and inspired by the people of our community who love from the heart and embody servanthood and southern hospitality. I am grateful to God for the chance to steward this magazine. Thank you to our partners and community for your kindness and support. Thank you to my husband, family and friends for your love and support. A heartfelt thank you to my team—Mallory, Sophie, Amy, Aimee, Isabella and Rose for sharing your gifts! Looking ahead, I’m excited to introduce Angi Burns as your new publisher. Angi has a big vision and team dedicated to helping our partners thrive. With Faith guiding my steps, Genesis Creative Concepts (GCC), my new venture will continue community-focused and faith-driven events like Women on a Mission and Whip Your Branding Into Shape. Connect with us on Instagram: Genesis Creative Concepts or Facebook: Genesis Creative Concepts TX. Let your light shine, Rachael Matthew 5:14

“I’m incredibly honored to continue the legacy of excellence established by Rachael Fenton and Jane Publisher, Rachael Fenton

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | L I FE + CU LT U RE

Krzysiak. Together, we’re not just building community—we're helping people live out their purpose.”

Hi, I’m Angi. I’m incredibly honored to step into the role of Publisher for Cross Timbers Lifestyle and continue the legacy of excellence established by Rachael Fenton and Jane Krzysiak. I want to thank them both for creating such a beautiful publication and laying the groundwork for a thriving community resource. The reputation they’ve built is one I deeply respect, and I do not take this responsibility lightly. As the owner of three City Lifestyle publications, I’m thrilled to expand our team into the vibrant Cross Timbers area and carry the torch forward with the same passion and integrity. A little about me: I was born and raised in North Dallas and graduated from Plano Senior High. My husband, Gary, and I have three amazing kids— Ashton, Averly, and Jaxx—and we truly cherish the family-focused lifestyle that the DFW metroplex offers. I spent 18 years in education before stepping into publishing. My journey with City Lifestyle began in 2022 while leading Ovation Academy of Performing Arts in McKinney. After partnering with the McKinney & Prosper publication as an advertiser and contributor, I fell in love with the mission and impact of this work. Since then, I’ve launched three publications— Allen, Plano, and Rockwall City Lifestyle—each rooted in building strong community connections. Now, I’m excited to bring that same energy, creativity, and commitment to Cross Timbers Lifestyle. At The Burns Team, our mission is “to creatively connect the community through collaboration and celebration.” This directly supports City Lifestyle’s mission “to inspire people to use their God-given gifts” by creating space for individuals to share their talents and passions. I look forward to meeting you, sharing your stories, and growing this amazing community. Together, we’re not just building community— we’re helping people live out their purpose.

New Publisher, Angi Burns S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C RO S ST I M BE R S

H AT S o f f TO S T Y L E Like many successful small businesses, Cadillac Hats began as a way to have fun together. For Kim Cothes and her daughters, fancy hats began as a fun way to dress up for concerts and parties. “We enjoyed playing around and accessorizing hats as a hobby.” Then the craft quickly snowballed into an online business, receiving custom orders and growing into a retail presence at Painted Tree and Lonestar Mercantile. Suddenly, Cadillac Hats have made their way to all 50 states and the UK. Cadillac uses anything from pins and playing cards to leather and feathers to embellish these one-of-a-kind hats. They offer many different styles for your many different occasions, including western hats, trucker caps, Kentucky Derby masterpieces, and college fan favorites. Consider allowing them to create a special piece for your next gathering, like a wedding, reunion, or corporate event. And don’t forget the kids. They will top your child with a cool look as well.

Get ready to tip your hat in style. For more information and visual fun, visit Cadillac Hats at cadillachats.com. They can also be found on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Etsy.

ARTICLE BY AMY YOUNG PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY CADILLAC HATS

To p O f f Yo u r L o o k W i t h a Customized Hat

FASH ION F OR WA R D | L IF E + CU LT U RE

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THE EMPOWERING EXPERIENCE OF A PROFESSIONAL BLOWOUT

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ARTICLE BY FATIMA DURRANI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY HEATHER CAPLICK: HEATHER LANE PHOTOGRAPHY

The philosophy behind Blo Blow Dry Bar is simple: give people the power to feel runway-ready at a moment’s notice. No cuts, no color; just wash, blow, and go. In a world where time is short, this concept has “blown” up in popularity! Blo Blow Dry Bar Flower Mound officially opened its doors in May of 2021. “Whether it’s for a weekly blowout, special event styling, or a moment of self-care, we’ve become a trusted destination for beauty and confidence in the Flower Mound area,” reflects Velma McMillan, owner and operator. Every day, Velma’s passion for empowering women and helping them feel confident and celebrated shines clearly in her work, where she blends business leadership with creativity. Her first step is to help women explore their personal style, but make it easy for them to maintain too. “Beauty doesn’t have to be complicated to be transformational. Exploring personal style starts by tuning into what makes you feel confident and comfortable. At Blo, every service begins with a consultation. We listen to your lifestyle, your goals, and how you want to feel when you leave. Whether you prefer sleek and straight, soft curls, or a voluminous blowout, we tailor every

appointment to reflect your individuality. We don’t just offer a hairstyle—we offer a moment of self-care, empowerment, and consistency.” Velma realizes that beauty is more than skin deep. “It’s also important to care for your hair beyond the chair. Hair color, product selection, and daily wellness habits all influence your style. For example, eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins A, C, and E and staying hydrated can significantly improve shine and strength. We help clients choose salon-grade products that match their hair type and goals, so they can maintain a healthy, stylish look at home. “Hair beauty is personal power. It’s not about perfection or passing trends—it’s about self-expression, wellness, and confidence. When your hair reflects how you feel inside, you carry that energy into everything you do. That sense of being seen, styled with intention, and uplifted—that’s the essence of hair beauty to me. “Hair beauty is also a form of care. It’s the time you carve out to invest in yourself. It’s knowing that your outer look mirrors your inner strength. Whether it’s sleek and polished, tousled and textured, or bold and voluminous, hair becomes a visual expression of who you are and how you show up in the world. At Blo—you’re not just getting a blowout, you’re stepping into your power with every strand.” While styling is Blo’s specialty, hair health is its foundation. Here are Velma’s tips for following a consistent routine to maximize hair health: • Scalp Wellness: Use exfoliating scrubs, nourishing oils, and gentle massaging to improve scalp health and promote healthy growth. • Hydration and Repair Treatments: Consider deep-conditioning add-ons (especially popular in the Texas climate); they help replenish moisture, smooth frizz, and protect against environmental stress and daily styling. • Heat Protection and Blowout Longevity: Be educated on how to protect your hair from heat while preserving your style, using the right products and tools. • Whole-Body Hair Wellness: Be aware of how lifestyle affects hair—from staying hydrated and eating nutrient-rich foods to stress reduction and sleep. It’s all connected, and Blo supports that holistic mindset in every consultation. While Blo caters to a diverse clientele—including young students inspired by social trends; professional women and busy moms who need polished, manageable looks that last through their packed schedules; and mature clients who prioritize shine, smoothness, and bounce—this emphasis on healthy hair is truly timeless. Blo’s focus on its popular Signature Blowout is a tangible business differentiator. While other salons split their attention across a wide range of services, Blo CONTINUED >

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“IT’S THE TIME YOU CARVE OUT TO INVEST IN YOURSELF. It’s knowing THAT YOUR OUTER LOOK MIRRORS YOUR inner strength. AT BLO—YOU’RE NOT JUST GETTING A BLOWOUT, YOU’RE stepping into your power WITH EVERY STRAND.” has mastered one: the perfect blowout. “We don’t alter the structure or color of your hair. Instead, we elevate what you already have, helping you look and feel your best without the need for scissors or dye,” reflects Velma. At the same time, Blo salon staff advise clients on all the latest trends, which continue to highlight effortless style, radiant shine, and whole-hair wellness. Here’s what’s trending in the world of hair fashion: • Textured Blowouts: This airy, voluminous look adds natural movement and is perfect for clients who want that “undone but done” aesthetic. It’s one of the most requested styles.

H AIR CA R E | BEAUTY

• Undone Waves and Lived-In Finishes: Casual elegance continues to trend with soft, tousled waves and effortless bends that bring out the natural beauty in each client’s hair. • Glossy, Polished Blowouts: Shine is making a big comeback. Blo uses heat-protecting, shine-enhancing products and round-brush techniques to create smooth, reflective finishes that feel as luxurious as they look. • Half-Up Styles and Soft Braids: Whether it’s for an event or everyday glam, these romantic, face-framing looks remain in high demand—playful, polished, and photo-ready. Ready to feel your best? For more info, visit www.blomedry.com/ flower-mound-dallas-tx or call 214-513-5500.

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ARTICLE BY MALLORY NEWELL PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY THE RUSTIC WAREHOUSE

A Mix of Teamwork, Creativity, Coziness, Shared Visions, and Faith

Story of The Rustic Warehouse The Rustic Warehouse began in Rockwall, Texas, in 2015, born from a season of unexpected change when Mattie unexpectedly became a single mom. But from that, Mattie says, “I felt like the Lord told me that he would give me the store of my dreams – all I had to do was be faithful.” The origin story of The Rustic Warehouse really goes back to Mattie’s love for home and design as a little girl who played with the doll house, not the dolls, painted her own desk with nail polish, and watched HGTV shows. “God gives us desires and things that we’re passionate about, and if we sit still and think about what we loved to do as a kid, that’s a sign of what you [could] be passionate about when you’re older.”

M UST SE E | ARTS + C ULT U RE

MATTIE OPENED UP THE RUSTIC WAREHOUSE WITH NOTHING BUT TRUST THAT GOD WOULD HOLD HER AND HER WILD DREAMS IN HIS HANDS.

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The upscale feel of their pieces balances the earthy and cozy elements of home that Mattie and Al prioritize. Al’s own father manufactured custom furniture in downtown Chicago, the desire to create long-lasting pieces is a generational aspect that they include in their own process. “We want it to be like how it used to be years ago when you would get your grandma’s piece,” the Vivos explain. No more having to rebuy furniture only two years later due to poor quality and fleeting trends. “When you buy from us, you keep it for a long, long time. Creating that legacy is really important to us.” The Rustic Warehouse offers customization on many pieces—from beds and chairs to sectionals and sofas. The team designs many of the imported pieces themselves and sources from the best. What makes them unique is their abundance of on-the-floor pieces as well as custom orders with turnaround times that you won’t find anywhere else. Their dedication of time and effort to sourcing only ethically-made pieces of the highest quality and their free design consultations ensure that each customer they work with is bringing home pieces that are made with excellence and look beautiful.

Mattie opened up The Rustic Warehouse with nothing but trust that God would hold her and her wild dreams in his hands. Two and a half years later, Mattie and Al Vivo got married, and as a team, the business grew to an even greater level. Today, Al leads the business as CEO, with an extensive background in the furniture industry and eye for design, he has a knack for both business and creativity. Mattie now operates as creative support by curating the store, designing furniture, and working with clients. The Vivos operate The Rustic Warehouse with integrity and joy. Whether that means creating exact renderings of a client’s space to figure out which pieces would work best, or going through their selections of American-made upholstery, the creative duo serves each client and employee with an open heart.

M UST SE E | ARTS + C ULT U RE

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How This Local Photographer Turns Everyday Life Into Lasting Memories ARTICLE BY SOPHIE BETZHOLD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALISON ABERDEEN PHOTOGRAPHY It’s said that beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but some eyes, like those of local photographer Alison Foreman, owner of Alison Aberdeen Photography, may see opportunities for a beautiful shot a bit better than others. To Alison, photography is an art - a way to tell a story and capture a memory as it happens. In her ten-plus years of experience as a family, maternity, newborn, and senior photographer, she has become a storyteller from behind the lens. Her passion for sharing these special moments is evident through

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the warm and inviting images she captures for others to reflect back on for years to come. For Alison, taking photos has always been personal. When she first picked up the camera, she photographed people in the same stage of life as her - young families and mothers. Her understanding of how important it is to treasure each stage of life makes every session deeply intimate and special, freezing moments through her candid style of photography. “I want them to remember this time - time is so fleeting,” she said. “I want them to remember every nuance, every face, every snuggle.” Alison also understands the stress of being on the other side of the lens, and her trained eye allows her to offer clients ideas for styling, making the experience stress-free. Her consultative approach leaves no room for disappointment, suggesting colors, styles, and even linking outfits for the shoot. Alison’s passion, bubbly personality, and expert suggestions create the perfect environment for an unforgettable shot you’ll cherish forever.

A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | ARTS + CU LT U RE

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S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C RO S ST I M BE R S

Handc ra f ted w ith C are The Young Entrepreneur Behind Your New Favorite Jewelry Brand

T R E N D SE T T E R | ARTS + CU LT U RE

ARTICLE BY SOPHIE BETZHOLD

pandemic, Ally began networking with people around the community to expand her reach. She partnered with local gyms, florists, salons, and other small businesses that allowed her to set up a pop-up shop at their location to sell items in person. “I’ve just been so grateful,” Ally said, “As sweet as it was making a ton of sales over the U.S, I love uplifting small businesses in the community as well.” Today, Ally has become a popular regular at markets and events in the area – such as Turning Pointe’s dance recitals and Edison Coffee’s vendor markets – selling exclusive and trendy jewelry for all ages on her colorful pop-up table. Though these items are still available through her website online, her personable and sweet demeanor thrives on meeting customers in person and seeing the joy on their faces after purchasing one of her pieces. Though the success of Alexandria and Co. is important to her, “the heart of the business is to put a smile on someone’s face and spread tangible joy,” she says with a proud smile.

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY ALLY SCHOENHOFER

Nearing the end of her high school career, faced with big decisions like where to go and what to do next, Ally Joven Schoenhofer knew she wanted to keep her hands busy. It was the fall before the COVID-19 pandemic shut the world down when Ally got the idea from her family to start selling handmade jewelry online to her friends for fun. She never thought the bracelets, earrings, necklaces, and other unique designs that she and her mother created at their dining room table would be shipped around the country and world. Five years later, the Flower-Mound-based business, Alexandria and Co., continues to sell hundreds of beautifully handcrafted jewelry pieces while keeping a deep gratitude for family and the community at the forefront. By utilizing social media during the lockdown, orders from Alexandria and Co. soared. Though she enjoyed the success, Ally realized her desire to keep the Flower-Mound-based business local and focus on word-of-mouth advertising. Once stores opened back up after the

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ARTICLE BY MALLORY NEWELL PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY BETH DILLEY

“I want them to come to the canvas and bring their own ideas and emotions to that piece.”

Moonrise, acrylic, 48" x 36"

I NSP IR E D BY | ARTS + C U LT U RE

The Color s Bloom Artist Beth Dilley on Viewing Emotional Landscapes

Nostalgia, acrylic, 24" x 24"

The first step to creating an emotional landscape begins with the palette, local artist Beth Dilley says. First, she approaches it from her own emotional landscape. “I lay out my palette colors, mixing and blending until I get colors that feel like where I’m at.” Next, is the creation of a focal point, “I take a piece of charcoal and scribble a few lines so I know where the movement is, what I want the eye to travel to. It’s a scribble, but it does something about dividing the canvas up into areas of interest.” Then, the canvas comes alive, Dilley explains, “I can start flooding the canvas with color.” Dilley’s journey with abstract art, after a lifetime of mastering hyper-realism, began by experimenting with thinning down acrylics and treating them as watercolors. “It’s exciting because you don’t know what’s going to happen until you start applying it.” “The colors bloom,” she explains, “wet into wet, one color blooming into another, but I can go back in and bring some areas into more focus and leave some areas softer.” This loose way of painting gives the canvas itself autonomy: “The paints tell me what to do, the shapes that emerge tell me what to be.”

Each canvas is its own realization, and it shifts the paradigm for the viewer. Emotional landscapes aren’t a direct one-to-one reflection of a particular place or object, making the interpretation of the piece completely up to each individual viewer. Dilley explains, “I want them to approach it from their own perspective so they’re responding to the colors in the way that they feel those colors. I want them to come to the canvas and bring their own ideas and emotions to that piece so that they’re responding to it on their terms.” The majority of Dilley’s pieces are emotional landscapes, a paradox of organization but yet no structure at all. But the element of vagueness is really the best thing about Beth’s work. Somehow, as an artist who brings beauty and life to a canvas hung on a customer’s wall, she leaves the ball in the viewer’s court: “I don’t want to tell you what it is, how to feel about it.” Beth will be teaching a painting class at the Flower Mound Community Activity Center on September 27 at 1pm to guide more artists in experimenting with paint. Registration available on the Town of Flower Mound website.

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SEPTEMBER 2025

events A S E L E C T I O N O F U P C O M I N G LO C A L E V E N T S

SE PT E M BE R 1 4 T H

The Amazing FundRACEr Lakeside Village in Flower Mound | 1:30 PM You won't want to miss out on PediPlace's Amazing Race event with clue challenges, after party, food, prizes, and a silent auction—all benefiting children's healthcare in North Texas! SE PT E M BE R 2 0 T H

Rhythms at the River Walk and Duck Derby Flower Mound River Walk | 10:00 AM The Cross Timber Rotary Club invites you to the 8th annual Rhythms at the River Walk and Duck Derby! The day will include rubber duck racing, live music, vendor booth shopping, food trucks, activities, and so much more, all to benefit our community's non-profits! SE PT E M BE R 2 5T H

Library Truck Rodeo Flower Mound Public Library (3030 Broadmoor Ln.) North Parking Lot | 3:00 PM The Flower Mound Public Library is hosting a behind-the-scenes look at vehicles from Town departments! There will be Police, Fire, Animal Control, Parks, and Public Works vehicles in the parking lot for kids of all ages to get an up-close look at! SE PT E M BE R 2 6T H- 2 7 TH

Lewisville Western Days Old Town Lewisville The family-favorite Lewisville Western Days will include live music on six stages, Padrino Foods World Tamale Eating Championship, food trucks, and western-themed activities. This event is free and perfect for the whole family! SE PT E M BE R 2 7 T H

Doggie Dive Flower Mound CAC Outdoor Water Park (1200 Gerault Rd.) | 8:30 AM Flower Mound's Doggie Dive is an event for all fur-babies! Bring your pup to the water park for some time in the water, puppuccinos, treats, toys, and prizes! Pup pre-registration is required. SE PT E M BE R 2 7 T H

2025 Fall Eco-Action day Flower Mound High School | 10:00 AM All Flower Mound residents are invited to participate in the community-wide cleanup, recycling drop-off, and environmental fair!

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OLD WALL, NEW TRICKS ARTICLE BY PAM REID

HANG UP THE OLD WAY AND TRY A GALLERY WALL HANGING SYSTEM IN YOUR HOME.

One of my happy places is sitting in front of a museum wall gallery. I can admire art for hours, and if I’m with a friend, there’s no telling how long we’ll sit, reflect, and share our individual perspectives. If you’ve admired gallery wall displays in magazines, catalogs, or on social media and would like to create one in your home, it’s much easier than you might think.

MATERIALS YOU WILL NEED:

DESIGNING YOUR GALLERY WALL

CREATIVE ARRANGEMENTS

The first step in creating a gallery wall is planning. Start by selecting a theme or color scheme that complements your space. Themes can be as varied as black-and-white photographs, abstract paintings, or a mix of personal and artistic prints.

• The arrangement of your gallery wall can follow several patterns, depending on your taste: • Linear: Artworks are hung in a straight line at eye level, creating a clean and orderly appearance. • Grid: Perfect for a collection of similarly sized frames, this layout emphasizes structure and uniformity. • Salon Style: This more traditional arrangement involves layering pieces closely together, often extending across the wall. It’s ideal for creating a rich, filled look.

• A gallery wall hanging system, which typically includes mounting rails, cables or rods, and hooks. You can find them pretty much anywhere, online or at your local home improvement store. • A collection of frames and artwork. • A level, measuring tape, and perhaps a laser pointer for precision.

INSTALL ATION TIPS: 01 MEASURE YOUR SPACE: Carefully measure the wall space where you want to install the gallery. Consider the height and width available, keeping in mind furniture and other room features.

02 LAY IT OUT: Arrange your artwork on the floor to finalize your layout. This “dry run” is crucial to get a feel for how the pieces will interact with one another. I like to use painter’s tape to create a visual of what my display will look like on the walls.

03 INSTALL THE RAILS AND HANG YOUR ART: Following the manufacturer’s instructions, mount the rails at the top of your wall. Ensure they are level and securely attached. Attach cables or rods to the rails, then use hooks to hang your frames. The beauty of the system is that you can adjust the height and position easily.

04 BALANCE AND SYMMETRY: Step back to view your layout from different angles. Adjust the spacing and alignment as needed to achieve visual balance.

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