Frisco, TX May 2026

The Ladies Issue A R T S + C U LT U R E

M AHJO NG, ANYO N E?

M AY 2 02 6

Her Day on the

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

Unstoppable.

May 2026 PUBLISHER

Barbara Ireland | Barbara.Ireland@citylifestyle.com M AN AG I N G E D I TO R

Danielle Poche | Danielle.Poche@citylifestyle.com

There is something extraordinary about a community shaped by confident, driven, and gracious women, and this month we are celebrating them in style. Welcome to our Ladies Issue, a tribute to the women of Frisco who are building businesses, lifting one another up, and proving that strength and femininity can exist beautifully together.

This issue begins with a woman who has turned passion into power. Becky Hillyard’s journey from side hustle to style empire is the kind of story that inspires every woman who has ever taken a leap of faith. Her success is not just about fashion. It is about courage, creativity, and believing in yourself long before anyone else does.

You will also find a look at the Mahjong madness sweeping through Frisco, and yes, the ladies are leading the charge. What started as a fun way to gather has quickly become a social movement rooted in connection, laughter, and the kind of friendships that make a community feel like home.

We are also proud to highlight Starwood Med Spa and their dedication to helping women feel confident in their own skin. Their focus is not simply about beauty. It is about empowerment, confidence, and helping women look and feel their very best at every stage of life.

And in a community as generous as Frisco, we want to celebrate those who are giving back. The Burress Law Foundation is making a meaningful impact through student scholarships and support for local causes, proving that strong leaders do not just succeed. They make sure others have the opportunity to succeed too.

This issue is feminine, powerful, supportive, and a little bit bold. It celebrates the women who lead with heart, who inspire quietly or loudly, and who continue to shape the future of this incredible community every single day.

Here is to the ladies of Frisco. Strong, stylish, generous, and unstoppable.

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Christine Clark, Sharla Davenport, Alexis Jacobs, Danielle Poche, Matthew Sousa C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R

Lorena Balaguer - Lovelyn Photography

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry COO David Stetler CRO Jamie Pentz CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick

With admiration, BARBARA IRELAND, PUBLISHER @ F R I S C O M AG Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise.

Proverbs 3:5-6 Frisco Magazine is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Frisco area’s most affluent neighborhoods.

Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions.

Visit our Instagram CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/FRISCO

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

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 Frisco Magazine is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

inside the issue MAY 2 0 2 6 | L A DI ES

14 22

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Featured

14 18

22 32 8

Mahjong, Anyone?

The Classic Tile Game Is Bringing Communities Together

Investing In Outdoor Living

Daystar Landscapes - Enhancing Curb Appeal and Creating Functional Outdoor Spaces Designed for Everyday Living

The Beauty Of Starwood Med Spa

Starwood Med Spa Brings Thoughtful, Medical-Grade Aesthetics To Frisco

Mother’s Day Breakfast

Delight Mom With Homemade Belgian Waffles

32 On the Cover

Departments

Mahjong being played at The Wick (Celina, TX) with the restaurant's signature Lemon Drop cocktail.

6

Lifestyle Letter

10

City Scene

12

Business Monthly

14

Hot Spot ARTS + CULTURE

18

Outdoor Living HOME + DESIGN

22

Spa Day BEAUTY

26

Giving Back EDUCATION

30

Inspired By LIFE + CULTURE

32

Culinary Creations FOOD + BEVERAG E

34

Happy Hour FOOD + BEVERAGE

36

Events

38

Seasonal Setups HOME + DESIGN

M AY 2 0 2 6

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1

2

FRISCO ISD

4

6 FRISCO FIRE DEPARTMENT

3

FRISCO ROUGHRIDERS

7

5

1: Snellings Law at FYP Lunch with the Mayor 2: TOCA Social celebrates Grand Opening at Grandscape 3: City Lifestyle editorial team at Pop Up March Magazine Release party 4: Cassidy Dorain (Scott Elementary) and Katie Ryan (Heritage HS) - District Teachers of the Year 5: Firefighter of the Year - D/O Max Buck- at Annual Fire Department Awards Banquet 6: Jereme and Jennifer Downs enjoys an evening at Rollertown Beerworks 7: Banana Ball comes to town! Texas Tailgaters vs. Loco Beach Coconuts at Rider's Field

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C I T Y SC E N E

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The Classic Tile Game Is Bringing Communities Together

MAHJONG, ANYONE?

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H OT SP OT | ARTS + C ULT U RE

“What was once considered a quiet pastime reserved for older generations has found new life across the region, transforming into one of the most unexpected social trends in communities from Frisco to Texoma.”

On any given weeknight, the familiar click of tiles echoes through coffee shops, country clubs, and living rooms alike. What was once considered a quiet pastime reserved for older generations has found new life across the region, transforming into one of the most unexpected social trends in communities from Frisco to Texoma.

Mahjong is having a moment, and in North Texas, that moment has turned into a movement.

The centuries-old Chinese tile game has deep cultural roots, historically played within Asian and Jewish communities as a way to gather, connect, and pass down tradition. Today, that same sense of connection is fueling a powerful resurgence, but with a broader, more diverse audience.

Across the U.S., interest in mahjong has surged in recent years, with a growing number of people seeking out lessons, social groups, and local events.

What was once learned at home is now

CONTINUED >

MAY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / F R I S C O

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WANT TO PLAY? Visit Facebook @Mahjong Prosper/ Frisco/Celina, where you will find local Mahjong Mentors, open play opportunities, special events, tournaments, and more!

being rediscovered in social settings, where newcomers are eager to pull up a chair and learn the game.

In Celina, Frisco, and throughout North DFW, mahjong has moved far beyond kitchen tables. Informal groups are forming in neighborhoods, with weekly games hosted in homes, clubhouses, and community spaces. Social media groups and word-of-mouth have helped fuel the growth, connecting players of all skill levels.

Local venues are also embracing the trend. Mahjong nights are popping up at wineries, including Valley Vines, and at restaurants, such as The Wick in Celina, and even boutiques, like Proper Gifts & Decor in Sherman. Whether it is a casual open play or a guided lesson for beginners, the format is approachable and social.

The appeal is simple: four players, a table, and a shared experience that encourages conversation as much as competition.

Perhaps the most surprising element of mahjong’s rise is who is playing.

Once associated with older generations, the game is now drawing in younger players, particularly women and young professionals looking for meaningful ways to connect offline. Mahjong nights have become a go-to for girls’ nights, neighborhood meet ups, and even networking events.

In fast-growing communities like Celina and Frisco, where many residents are new to the area, the game has become an easy way to build friendships. Open play groups welcome beginners, creating an inclusive and engaging environment.

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H OT SP OT | ARTS + C ULT U RE

It is not uncommon for players to arrive as strangers and leave as friends.

The resurgence of mahjong reflects something deeper than a passing trend.

In a digital-first world, people are craving tactile, face-to-face interaction. Mahjong delivers exactly that.

The game requires focus, strategy, and a bit of luck, but its real draw lies in its rhythm. The shuffle of tiles, the anticipation of a winning hand, and the shared laughter around the table create an experience that feels both nostalgic and new.

In North Texas, where community connection is a defining part of the lifestyle, mahjong fits naturally into the social landscape. It offers a reason to gather, slow down, and be present.

What sets mahjong apart from other social fads is its staying power. It is not just entertainment. It is tradition, strategy, and connection wrapped into one.

Across the area, the game has transitioned from a niche activity into a growing cultural staple, attracting players of all ages and backgrounds. From beginners learning the rules for the first time to seasoned players hosting weekly games, mahjong is building something lasting.

And as more North Texans pull up a chair and pick up a tile, one thing is clear: this is more than a comeback.

It is a revival rooted in community, connection, and the simple joy of sitting down together.

“What sets mahjong apart from other social fads is its staying power.

It is not just entertainment. It is tradition, strategy, and connection wrapped into one.”

MAY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / F R I S C O

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INVESTING IN OUTDOOR LIVING Daystar Landscapes - Enhancing Curb Appeal and Creating Functional Outdoor Spaces Designed for Everyday Living

ARTICLE BY ALEXIS JACOBS PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY DAYSTAR LANDSCAPES

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O UT D OOR LIV IN G | HO ME + D E SIGN

In North Texas, where outdoor living is part of the lifestyle, landscaping has become more than an aesthetic upgrade. It’s an investment. For Daystar Landscapes, that philosophy has been at the heart of the company since its earliest days, shaping not only how spaces look, but how they function and endure.

Daystar Landscapes began in 1984 with a simple vision and a strong work ethic. Founder Jeff Canfield moved to Texas from Oklahoma and started the business with little more than determination, a rented wheelbarrow, and tools purchased on a Sears credit card. By day, he completed landscaping jobs.

By night, he stocked groceries to make ends meet.

Growth came steadily and organically. “It started with knocking on doors and building trust one project at a time,” says Catherine Brooks, General Manager. “Those early relationships turned into long-term partnerships, and that’s really what built the foundation of who we are today.”

Over the decades, Daystar Landscapes expanded from residential jobs into partnerships with custom and production homebuilders, developing the systems and expertise required to handle projects at every scale. Today, the company offers full-service landscape design and installation for residential, commercial, and new construction properties across North Texas.

That full-service approach is central to the client experience. Rather than coordinating multiple contractors, homeowners can rely on a single, cohesive team from concept through completion. Services include design, installation, planting, irrigation, drainage, lighting, hardscape features, and more, all thoughtfully integrated into one plan.

“Professional landscaping is one of the few investments that improves your daily life while also increasing your home’s value,” explains Catherine. “It creates outdoor spaces that feel like an extension of your home, while also ensuring everything is built to last.”

That balance between beauty and function is where the company truly sets itself apart. Each project begins with a collaborative design process, often incorporating 3-D renderings that allow homeowners to visualize the finished space before construction begins. From there, every detail, from plant selection to grading, is carefully considered.

“Beautiful landscapes start below the surface,” says Catherine.

“If irrigation, drainage, and grading aren’t done correctly, even the best design won’t hold up over time.”

This attention to infrastructure helps homeowners avoid common long-term issues like erosion, standing water, and plant failure, protecting both the landscape and the property itself. It also ensures that the finished space remains as functional as it is visually appealing.

Experience in commercial and builder projects also influences Daystar Landscapes’ residential work. The company brings a level of organization, efficiency, and precision that elevates the homeowner experience.

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“Working at scale teaches you discipline,” says Catherine. “We bring that same structure and attention to detail into residential projects, so everything runs smoothly and the end result is something we’re proud to stand behind.”

That commitment is reflected not only in the finished product, but in the process itself. Clean job sites, clear communication, and a respect for the homeowner’s space are all part of the Daystar Landscapes standard.

“Landscaping isn’t just about adding plants,” says Catherine. “It’s about creating a space that fits how people actually live.”

Beyond individual projects, Daystar Landscapes is also deeply rooted in the North Texas community, supporting local initiatives and contributing to projects that extend beyond their job sites.

At its core, the company’s mission remains simple: to create outdoor environments that are as functional as they are beautiful. Spaces that grow, adapt, and add value over time.

For homeowners considering their next upgrade, the message is clear.

Investing in your landscape isn’t just about today’s curb appeal. It’s about building something that enhances your home, your lifestyle, and your future.

For more information, visit DayStar Landscapes at DayStarLandscapes. com or 2144 W. Prosper Trail, Prosper, TX 75078, or contact them at 972.985.7489 or Info@daystarlandscapes.com.

“Great landscaping transforms how homeowners live, blending beauty, function, and long-term value into every outdoor space.”

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STARWOOD MED SPA BRINGS THOUGHTFUL, MEDICAL-GRADE AESTHETICS TO FRISCO ARTICLE BY CHRISTINE CLARK PHOTOGRAPHY BY LORENA BALAGUER - LOVELYN PHOTOGRAPHY

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S PA DAY | BEAUTY

For more than a decade, Starwood Med Spa has been a trusted name across North Texas. Twelve years ago, Sameer Jaffers and his wife, Taz, saw an opportunity to purchase a med spa at the corner of Lebanon Road and the North Texas Tollway. After quickly rebranding it as Starwood Med Spa, they have expanded to four locations in recent years, including Frisco, Plano, McKinney, and The Colony.

The Jaffers are known for blending advanced aesthetic treatments with a highly personalized approach. Their offerings include body sculpting, facials, skin rejuvenation, injectables and fillers, health and wellness services, and massage therapy.

The team carefully researches and tests the latest machines and treatment protocols to ensure Starwood Med Spa consistently offers the most advanced options available. “Each location offers the same advanced treatments, medical oversight, and high standards,” Sameer says. “We are continually evaluating and adopting FDA-approved devices and protocols to ensure safety and effectiveness.” Their commitment to staying current is matched by a thoughtful approach; Starwood Med Spa carefully evaluates new technologies and techniques, intentionally avoiding shortterm trends and unproven services.

Earlier this year, the Frisco location underwent a complete renovation, creating a fresh, contemporary atmosphere designed to feel serene and refined.

Despite a limited number of treatment rooms, the Starwood team ensures every client feels valued through highly personalized treatment plans.

With summer approaching, many Starwood Med Spa clients are preparing for the pool, the beach, or simply an evening out. Body sculpting and feeling body-ready are top of mind for many clients, and the Starwood team offers several effective approaches depending on individual goals.

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CoolSculpting® Elite, a non-invasive fat-reduction treatment, targets stubborn fat in nine FDA-approved areas, including the abdomen, flanks, upper arms, thighs, and under the chin.

Nonsurgical body contouring with Venus Legacy™ technology helps reduce stubborn fat, tighten skin, and sculpt the body. EMTONE is another non-invasive treatment designed to improve the appearance of cellulite and skin laxity, particularly in the abdomen, thighs, and glutes. By combining radiofrequency and targeted pressure energy, it stimulates collagen, improves circulation, and smooths uneven skin texture.

Achieving a healthy glow all summer is also possible at Starwood Med Spa with skin rejuvenation, fillers, and Botox. Glowing skin starts with the ultimate refresh: a HydraFacial and BBL HEROic treatment.

HydraFacial deeply cleanses, exfoliates, and hydrates the skin for an instant glow, while BBL HEROic is an advanced broadband light treatment that targets sun damage, pigmentation, redness, and uneven skin tone while stimulating collagen for smoother, brighter skin.

The Allergan Aesthetics Top 500 designation recognizes the top 1% of aesthetic practices in the United States based on high-volume usage of BOTOX®, JUVÉDERM®, KYBELLA®, and CoolSculpting®. This distinction reflects elite-level injectors, advanced techniques, and consistent patient results. The team

at Starwood Med Spa has remained in the Top 500 for several years, a recognition that reflects both patient trust and consistently safe outcomes.

New clients who are ready to make a change are encouraged to schedule a complimentary consultation. The Jaffers prioritize listening carefully to each client’s goals, lifestyle, and concerns, gathering a full medical history before making recommendations. The team evaluates facial anatomy, skin condition, lifestyle factors, and long-term goals to create a personalized treatment plan. Every recommendation is tailored to ensure clients feel heard and well cared for. As Sameer says, “We want our clients to leave happy and looking forward to coming back.”

Starwood also offers promotions for new clients throughout the year, along with VIP memberships for those interested in ongoing treatments.

Monthly memberships are available for services such as laser hair removal, tox treatments, and microdermabrasion. Seasonal offerings and special events are also featured regularly on their website and social media.

Starwood Med Spa remains a family-owned and operated business. The Jaffers have invested heavily in their employees, encouraging a long-term team approach that reflects the level of care they want every client to experience.

6950 Lebanon Rd Ste 105 Frisco, TX 75034 StarwoodMedSpa.com

The team carefully researches and tests the latest machines and treatment protocols to ensure Starwood Med Spa consistently offers the most advanced options available.

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S PA DAY | BEAUTY

Burress Injury Law In Conjunction With The Foundation Awards Student Scholarships And Supports Local Non-Profits

ARTICLE BY SHARLA DAVENPORT PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Burress Community Foundation

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G IV IN G BAC K | EDUCATI ON

Native Texan Jason Burress grew up attending the annual Willie Nelson Fourth of July Picnics. As a young adult, he told his grandparents that once he achieved professional success, he would host a picnic of his own. There would be one key difference: it would celebrate food, family, and fun while raising funds for charity. He has fulfilled that promise through Burress Community Foundation, a nonprofit that awards student scholarships and supports local nonprofits.

Since 2009, Burress Injury Law has hosted an annual picnic that benefits a variety of nonprofits. In 2022, Jason formally established a nonprofit foundation (Burress Community Foundation) to ensure transparency and maximize the Team Burress’s charitable giving.

Jason explains, “I served on a community development corporation for years where you learn how to audit financials of non-profits. I realized our foundation was not going to support any organization that allocates 80% of gifts for salaries and overhead. Sadly, you see that often.” To qualify as a beneficiary, charities must demonstrate exceptional financial stewardship, a thoughtful approach, and remain true to their core mission.

One of the foundation’s defining principles is discipline. The hallmark of giving for Burress Injury Law (now in conjunction with the Foundation) is to fund all costs and overhead expenses associated with its events and initiatives (e.g., annual picnic, spring and fall semester scholarships) to ensure 100 percent of all donations and sponsorships reach its beneficiaries, in addition to a dollar for dollar matching gift.

No portion of monetary gifts that the foundation receives will ever be used to offset foundation expenses or event costs. The Burress Injury Law Firm provides all manpower and covers all expenses on behalf of the foundation. “So, if there is $75,000 donated, then that’s what goes to the beneficiaries plus the law firm matches the donation,” effectively doubling the gift.

CONTINUED >

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“This means a lot to us to give scholarships to kids who have overcome adversity like a significant crisis or bad injury, cancer, or losing a parent.

That is the kind of person who prevails and those are the ones we like to support.”

Jason emphasizes the foundation’s unique ethos. “Our foundation does the very best work and gets the very least amount of love. In a perfect world, everyone would know what perfect stewards we are of the money so that we could raise more, allowing us to give more,” he declares. “That is what sets us apart. The money does not go to a CEO salary or inflated staff. We have been blessed with our business, and Burress Community Foundation is able to give back to the people who need it the most.”

The mission of Burress Community Foundation is to support the local community, youth, and first responders through grants, scholarships, and giveback initiatives. By this October, the foundation will have awarded more than $1 million to nonprofits and educational scholarships, a milestone Jason knows would make his grandparents proud. To date, over $707,000 has been donated to local nonprofits such as Love Life Foundation, Hugs Café in McKinney, Mane Gait, various Frisco ISD schools, Celina High School, the Prosper Fishing Team, and many more.

The foundation also provides one-time assistance to individuals, helping families or people in need. When recalling recently helping two local at-risk families in dire need of financial assistance, “We reviewed and audited the situation and jumped in to help. This was even more special as the foundation found an additional sponsor to match the gift.”

This hands-on approach inspired the foundation to expand into college scholarships, awarding a minimum of six each year to deserving students. Over the last four years, 75 scholarships

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G IV IN G BAC K | EDUCATI ON

totaling $187,500 have been awarded. The foundation currently offers two types of scholarships: Underdog scholarships and Friends of the Firm scholarships.

Burress Injury Law is devoted to serving victims of serious injuries, often advocating for those who feel overlooked. The Underdog Scholarship supports students who have “persevered in the face of adversity and want to use their life experiences to help others,” according to the foundation’s website. Jason shares, “This means a lot to us to give scholarships to kids who have overcome adversity like a significant crisis or bad injury, cancer, or losing a parent. That is the kind of person who prevails and those are the ones we like to support.” The foundation receives over 1,000 applications per semester, with staff dedicating countless hours to verify each applicant’s story of hardship. “No proof, no scholarship,” Jason underscores.

The Friends of the Firm Scholarship offers a more targeted award for students with a direct connection to the firm, including the children of employees, clients, or volunteers who have contributed to the foundation. The foundation’s long-term goal is to give $500,000 in educational scholarships by 2030.

Based in North Texas with offices in Frisco, McKinney, Sherman and Paris, Burress Injury Law has increased its outreach to raise awareness of the foundation and attract more applications for its grants and scholarships. Jason anticipates announcing a gift to a Frisco nonprofit in the coming months.

For more information, visit www.mytexasfirm.com.

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ARTICLE BY KALI KASORZYK

BECKY HILLYARD

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

From Side Hustle to Style Empire The power of taste, trust, and the courage to “just start.”

She didn’t have a business plan, a media budget, or even a name anyone could pronounce. What Becky Hillyard had was taste, a young family, and the instinct to just start. Today, her lifestyle brand Cella Jane commands an audience the size of Vogue’s, she’s nine collections strong with Splendid, and she’s built it all while raising three kids — refusing to sacrifice one for the other. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Becky shares what it really takes to build a brand, a career, and a life you love. Read the highlights below, then scan the QR code for the full conversation.

Q: WHEN DID YOU KNOW CELLA JANE WAS MORE THAN A HOBBY? A: Two moments. Women started emailing me saying they bought something I recommended and felt amazing — asking me to help them find a dress for a wedding. That felt incredible. Then I looked at my affiliate numbers for one month and realized I could cover our mortgage. I thought, I can actually do this. I never set out to build a business. I started it because I genuinely loved it.

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I NSP IR E D BY | L I FE + C ULT U RE

Becky in Splendid x @CellaJaneBlog Spring 2026 Collection

Becky in Splendid x @CellaJaneBlog Spring 2026 Collection

Q: WHAT WAS THE BIGGEST RISK YOU EVER TOOK WITH THE BRAND? A: Designing my own collection. It’s easy to point at items on a

Q: WHAT WOULD YOU TELL SOMEONE WHO WANTS TO BUILD SOMETHING OF THEIR OWN BUT KEEPS WAITING? A: Don’t wait. Don’t wait for the perfect camera, the right strat-

website and say I love these. But to create something from scratch, put your name on it, and wait to see if people connect with it — that’s terrifying. I had an incredible partner in Splendid, and women loved the pieces. It was the biggest risk and the biggest accomplishment.

egy, or enough followers. We find every excuse to stay comfortable. Just start, be consistent, and be authentically yourself. The right people will find you — and they’ll stay.

Q: HOW HAS INFLUENCER MARKETING CHANGED SINCE YOU STARTED? A: When I started, brands didn’t know whether to take it seriously. Now it’s a legitimate line item in their marketing budgets — sometimes bigger than TV. Because what we’ve built is trust.

People trust a real recommendation from someone they follow far more than a commercial. There’s no question about it now.

Q: YOU’RE A MOM OF THREE RUNNING A FULL BRAND. WHAT DOES YOUR DAY ACTUALLY LOOK LIKE? A: I try to get up at five and not hit snooze — that first hour before the house wakes up is the most productive, most peaceful hour of my day. Then it’s all hands on deck with the kids and school drop-off.

After that I work — planning content, connecting with my team, editing. After pickup, the day shifts completely and it’s all about them.

I’ve learned to protect both halves fiercely, because both matter.

This conversation is just the beginning. Becky goes deeper on the risks that almost stopped her, the design process behind her latest Splendid collection, and what she’d tell her 2012 self today.

Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on the Share the Lifestyle Podcast.

“Trust is the only metric that actually compounds.”

— Becky Hillyard

F E AT U R I N G B E C K Y H I L LYA R D The brand millions follow. Hear how it really star ted. Scan for the full conversation.

MAY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / F R I S C O

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Mother’s Day BREAKFAST 32

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

ARTICLE BY MATTHEW SOUSA

DELIGHT MOM WITH HOMEMADE BELGIAN WAFFLES Mother’s Day is the perfect occasion to treat Mom to a special homemade breakfast, and nothing says “I love you” like a plate of warm, fluffy Belgian waffles. These waffles are crispy on the outside, light and airy on the inside, and perfect for a delicious morning celebration.

CLASSIC BELGIAN WAFFLE RECIPE Ingredients: • 2 cups all-purpose flour • 2 tbsp sugar • 1 tbsp baking powder • ½ tsp salt • 2 eggs, separated • 1¾ cups milk • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted • 1 tsp vanilla extract Instructions: 1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

2. In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks, then mix in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.

3. Combine the wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.

4. In another bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form, then gently fold them into the batter.

5. Preheat your waffle iron and lightly grease it. Pour in enough batter to cover the surface and cook until golden brown and crisp.

Serving Suggestions: Top the waffles with fresh berries, whipped cream, and a drizzle of maple syrup or chocolate sauce. Pair with a hot cup of coffee or fresh orange juice for a perfect Mother’s Day surprise.

This simple yet elegant breakfast is a heartfelt way to show Mom just how much she means to you. Happy Mother’s Day!

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SPRINGTIME ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY PATTI NOBLE

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Whether you're catching up with your closest friends on a sunny spring afternoon or savoring a well-spent day with your mom, sister or aunt, there's something special about gathering over a pitcher

CELEBRATE THE SEASON WITH A VIBRANT WHITE SANGRIA

of crisp, refreshing white sangria. This bright, flavorful, fruit-filled cocktail is the perfect companion for laughter, stories, meaningful conversation, and making memories with the ones who know you

DIRECTIONS:

best. Cheers to friendship and a glass half full!

1. In a pitcher, add the wine, vodka, strawberries, and citrus fruit slices. Stir well to combine.

INGREDIENTS:

2. Cover and refrigerate overnight.

• 1 (750-milliliter) bottle dry rosé wine, or white wine*

3. Pour into glasses (over ice, if desired), ensuring each glass gets

• 1 cup vodka**

strawberry and citrus slices, top with sparking water or seltzer.

• 1 cup sliced or chunked strawberries

4. Garnish with a lemon or lime wheel, and berries.

• 2 medium limes, sliced into thin wheels, more for garnish

5. Enjoy with friends.

• 2 medium lemons or oranges sliced into thin wheels • 1 1/2 cups sparkling water, chilled

*Suggested wines: Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, and Viognier.

• Raspberries or Blackberries

**Add extra flavor by using an infused vodka.

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M AY 2 0 2 6

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MAY 1ST

SAVOR OMNI PGA FRISCO RESORT | 7:00 PM Four days of exquisite dining, live music, and celebrity golf bring together the best of food, drink and entertainment at the spectacular Omni PGA Frisco Resort & Spa for the second annual SAVOR Festival, April 30 through May 3. Get tickets and learn more about the events all weekend at SavorOmniPGAFrisco.com MAY 8TH

Nocturne FRISCO COMMONS PARK | 7:30 PM Nocturne, a Play Frisco event, transforms Frisco Commons Park with art trail after nightfall, featuring light, video, and sound installations by leading regional artists. The art trail is inspired by the natural world, celebrating the plants, creatures, and dreamlike atmosphere that emerge at night. This is a free family-friendly event that is open to all! @PlayFrisco @Nocturne_Frisco MAY 13TH

Dinner Show Series THE REVEL PATIO GRILL | 7:30 PM The Dinner Show Series at Revel Patio Grill is a recurring live entertainment experience that pairs tasty food with live performances in a welcome setting. Held every other Wednesday from 7:30PM to 9:30PM. Guests can enjoy full dinner service. Tickets start at $23.43. Learn more and reserve at RevelPatioGrill.com

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In 2026, the United States of America celebrates a once-in-a-lifetime milestone - its 250th anniversary.

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Directions:

APRIL SHOWERS BRING MAY FLOWERS Decorate Your Space With a DIY Floral Design Spring: the days grow longer, weather turns warmer, and the earth’s greenery starts to make its reappearance. During this time, flowers shoot up from the ground in a ballet of colors and movement. Walking outside becomes a cherished moment to breathe the fresh air and immerse yourself in lush surroundings. Being inside your home turns dreary and dull, everything that thrives is now outside, but this can easily be remedied.

Why not bring some life inside? Make a spring floral bouquet to lighten up your space. Flowers add color and character to any room that needs a little lift, and our step-by-step guide will inspire you to create something grand.

Step 1: When creating a beautiful floral arrangement, the first thing to do is decide on a color scheme and prepare the flowers. Have fun deciding what colors you want to play with.

Perhaps go pastel for spring or match the hues to other decor items in your house. Once you have picked your flowers, you need to do a little prep work. First, remove extra leaves and damaged petals from the stems. Then make a fresh diagonal

ARTICLE BY SARAH KNIEFF

cut to the bottom of all the flowers. This allows each bloom

Supplies: • Flowers of your choice • Scissors • Twine or floral tape • Ribbon (optional) • Decorative paper (optional) • Bouquet sleeve (optional)

to soak up as much water as they need.

Step 2: Now it’s arranging time — think focal and filler. The best way to start the arranging process is by choosing your most interesting or favorite flowers — this will be your focal point. Hold the focal flower(s) upright and add your supporting blooms around it. Make sure to turn the bouquet as you build so that the design is as desired. Once this is complete, add your filler flowers to finalize the look. Filler options include baby’s breath, ivy, fern, eucalyptus and more.

Step 3: Let’s get ready to tie. Once you’ve arranged your bouquet, tie all the stems together using twine or floral tape.

If using twine, we recommend securing it in a small bow in case you would like to rearrange at any given time. Floral tape is easy to move on and off for this purpose as well.

Step 4: Add the finishing touches. At this point, you are almost done with your bouquet and all that’s left is embellishments. There are so many ways to further adorn your creation: one way we love is to wrap it in fun decorative paper or put it in a special sleeve made just for flowers. If this idea isn’t for you, we recommend going to Pinterest for inspiration. Just remember, whatever way you choose to decorate your bouquet, you will end with a personalized piece made with love and care.

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