Highlands Ranch, CO October 2020

O C TO B E R 2 02 0

T H E B E S T O F H I G H L A N D S R A N C H A N D LO N E T R E E

FOOD + DRINK H I D D EN G EMS

DESTINATION

OUTDOOR LIVING

LANDSCAPE DESIGN

|

CONSTRUCTION

|

MAINTENANCE

15% Off New Clients | 303.795.1717 | DenverEliteLandscaping.com

MAKING DREAMS

come true

ONE HOME AT A TIME

Let us guide you home.

Your Highlands Ranch real estate experts Alan Larson alarson@kentwood.com | 303-888-5064

Alan Larson

Todd Landgrave todd@kentwood.com | 303-808-6005

kentwoodrealestate.com

Todd Landgrave

LIFESTYLE LETTER

OCTOBER 2020 PUBLISHER

Jennifer Starbuck | Jennifer.Starbuck@LifestylePubs.com EDITOR

Grand Finales and New Beginnings

Sonja Nix | Sonja.Nix@LifestylePubs.com ACCO UNT MANAGERS

Joan Dameron | Joan.Dameron@LifestylePubs.com Jeni Fleck | Jeni.Fleck@LifestylePubs.com

OUR LAST DATE NIGHT ON THE TOWN, THE WEEKEND BEFORE COVID-19

AD DESIGNER

SHUTDOWNS, WAS AN UNPLANNED DINNER WITH LONGTIME FRIENDS. We

Miranda Williams

sat in the Friday-night crush at Ocean Prime DTC. It was loud, exciting and felt good to

L AYO UT DESIGNER

mingle after a long week.

Emily Lisenbee CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

We stayed out too late and spent more than we should have. That impromptu double

Sonja Nix

date was meant to be — a grand sendoff to fine dining pre-pandemic. So grateful for

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

that night. We hope our Food Issue gets you thinking about what you're hungry for.

Jenae Lopez, Cameron Yarumian

The excitement of fashionably innovative cuisine? Or comforts of family home cooking?

Maybe a mixture of both.

Our Hidden Gems features the delicious creations of local business owners, from charcuterie delivered to your door, to an entire bakery case of gluten- and allergen-free treats. In Locally Owned, there's the entrepreneurial spirit of longtime Highlands Ranch residents who have recently purchased their local liquor store and are turning it into a neighborhood destination. Have a hard-to-find special request? They're on it.

And, since most of us are eating at home more than ever, check out a beautifully remodeled kitchen from Eryn Caskey, owner of A Rustic Butterfly. Start an idea board and get working on your own updated dream kitchen.

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

Eating out definitely looks different from that March Friday date night. But as you can

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen

see in these pages, South Denver is still dishing up.

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

Jennifer Starbuck, Publisher

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MASSACHUSETTS | MICHIGAN MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA | NEW JERSEY | NORTH CAROLINA OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON | PENNSYLVANIA | SOUTH CAROLINA TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

ON THE COVER Ornery Olive Charcuterie Co.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CAMERON YARUMIAN 4

Highlands Ranch Lifestyle | October 2020

CityLifestyle.com/HighlandsRanch

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

Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle 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 Highlands Ranch Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

Start early,

SELL QUICKLY

This is the time of year when many people begin thinking about putting their homes on the market, especially in the singlefamily market. Our best advice is to start getting your home ready early. The more prepared it is, the better chance it has of moving through the process quickly.

Here are a few things we recommend knocking out early: —

HVAC: Fall is a great time to get your HVAC serviced, especially if you’re thinking about listing your home. Hang on to your service record afterwards, too—it’ll help when it comes time for inspections.

—

Winterizing: Guard your home against things like burst pipes and overflowing gutters by winterizing early in the season. We also recommend removing dead trees and planting winter-safe varieties so your home will hold its curb appeal all winter long.

—

Chimney & Fireplace: This is one that gets missed a lot, but having your chimney and fireplace cleaned and serviced every couple of years can help minimize fire hazards and saves a lot of time down the road.

For a full list of suggestions, give us a call. We’re happy to help.

Joy Van Gilder, Broker Associate

Kara Wetherill, Broker Associate

(303) 908-5325 MOBILE jvangilder@sliferdenver.com

(720) 507-0790 MOBILE kwetherill@sliferdenver.com

visitthelandmark.com sliferdenver.com

INSIDE THE ISSUE OCTOBER 2020 FEATURES 14 Hidden Gems Bring Big Flavor Local Culinary Business Owners Bring Passion and Dedication and Spread Their Food Love in South Denver

18 Raising Your Spirits Good Spirits Liquor and Wine Reopens With a Colorado-Style Makeover

22 Cozy Spaces for Modern Living Eryn Caskey of A Rustic Butterfly Brings Her Own Aesthetic to Marry Rustic and Modern To Remodeled Perfection

22

26 Food For Thought Fox Hill Farm Brings Farm-to-Table Culture to Residents and Community

14

18 26

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

8

Good Times

10

Around Town

14

Local Limelight

18

Locally Owned

22 Renovate & Refine 26 Hot Spot 34 Culinary Creations

GOOD TIMES 1.

2.

Hops Harvesting Party at Fox Hill The Fox Hill Hops Harvesting Party took place on August 22nd. Attendees enjoyed good music and learned about the process of beer-making from fresh hops. People were able to take hops home with them to try their hands at home brewing!

3.

4.

1. Josh Branch and his fun music mix | 2. Hops before harvest | 3. Basket of hops | 4. Guest Greg Jensen enjoying the harvest

Fundraiser at Studio Med Spa benefiting Extended Hands of Hope Local business owner Monika Nielson organized a Sip and Shop event at The Studio Med this past month. The event hosted donated boutique clothing, accessories, shoes, jewelry and so much more from Amazing Lemons, Mod Mountain, Giggleblossom and Mama Tribe (to name a few) to be purchased during the event. One hundred percent of the proceeds went to benefit the non profit Extended Hands of Hope, which is an organization dedicated to helping sex trafficking survivors.

8

Highlands Ranch Lifestyle | October 2020

STAND TALLER

CUTTING-EDGE TECHNOLOGY

FEEL STRONGER

NATURALLY

TO FIGHT OSTEOPOROSIS

REACH HIGHER LIVE HAPPIER

CALL TO SCHEDULE YOUR

F R E E PR I VAT E S E S S I O N

7448 South University Boulevard Centennial, CO | (720) 836-1186 | osteostrong.me

LONE TREE

BARRE | BOOTCAMP | BRAWL™

FINANCIAL PLANNING for your future 22 YEARS EXPERIENCE COMPLIMENTARY INITIAL CONSULTATION

SIGN UP FOR YOUR 7901 Southpark Plaza, Suite 102, Littleton

Download The Barre Code App on your device OR head to thebarrecode.com/studio/lone-tree Get your First Month of Unlimited for only $99!

7600 Park Meadows Drive Membership Ste. 100, Lone Tree

@barrecode_lonetree

720-667-4992

(303) 260-7494 jayfinancialgroup.com

Securities and advisory services offered through Commonwealth Financial Network®, Member FINRA/SIPC, a Registered Investment Adviser.

Fixed insurance products and services offered through Jay Financial or CES Insurance Agency.

CityLifestyle.com/HighlandsRanch

9

AROUND TOWN

What makes us different, makes us better!

EAT THE FROG FITNESS OPENING Eat The Frog Fitness is coming soon to Highlands Ranch. It's the first Colorado location to open. They offer highly personalized workouts in a studio setting. Founded in 2008 by Olympic Gold Medalist and Decathlete Bryan Clay and longtime gym owner Joe Culver, they recognized that athletic

www.heflebowerfuneralservices.com | (720) 344-6087

8955 South Ridgeline Blvd. Suite 100 Highlands Ranch, Colorado 80129

training had become focused on appearance and weight, rather than physical function and endurance. To try out a free session, contact Sean Daily, at 303-729-3704 or visit eatthefrogfitness.com for a fitness assessment and personalized workout.

STARS IN ARTS GALA The whole family is invited to celebrate the past, present, and future of Performing Arts Academy in Highlands Ranch at the 7th annual Stars in Arts Gala. Tickets are now on sale for this exciting virtual event that will be held on Oct. 24. The silent auction begins on Oct. 20.

PAA's Stars in Arts Gala will have one hour of live-streamed and pre-recorded video content that ticket holders can view from home, including student performances and interviews, a live auction, and messages from PAA Staff and board members. The Silent Auction portion of the Gala

Summer has come to an end.

Your practice doesn't have to!

During October, we are offering 5 classes for $50 to keep you on track. Call the studio today to get signed up!

303.362.0369

@honoryogahighlandsranch honoryoga.com/highlandsranch

8800 S. Colorado Blvd, Unit F, Highlands Ranch, CO 80126 10

Highlands Ranch Lifestyle | October 2020

will be like years past, with an app that makes it easy to bid on the items you like!

For the past 14 years, PAA has relied on donations to offer transformative performing arts education to the children and youth in South Denver. This year we have 100 hours to raise $100,000 to keep PAA funded through this

global pandemic. Performing Arts Academy is a 501(c)3 nonprofit that is creating community, building character, and inspiring excellence through performing arts education.

Gala tickets at PAAColorado.org/Gala.

HRCA VIRTUAL TASTINGS While in person tastings are canceled for now, the HRCA and Davidsons Beer, Wine & Spirits have decided to bring the beverage tastings to you in the comfort of your own home. If you missed an event, no worries — download the shopping list and watch the recording. We have everything from cocktail creation classes, wine tastings, masterclasses and much MORE! Hope to see you at one of our upcoming virtual tastings. HRCAOnline.org

CURATE’S HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE Welcome the holiday season with the best local vendors, makers and artisans at Curate Mercantile’s Annual Holiday Open House Nov. 6-8.

Featuring goods from more than 70 merchants, the open house will showcase the newest merchandise for the upcoming season. From home decor,

Healthcare the way it should be Are you looking for a primary care physician who has the time to listen?

Are you tired of dealing with the current healthcare system because it’s “just the way it is” ?

...

on-trend fashion, handmade gifts, and local foods, you’re sure to find items to complete your shopping list while also getting yourself a little gift too! www.curatemercantile.com. Curate Mercantile is located at 8242 S University Blvd #510.

IT’S TIME TO RAISE EXPECTATIONS IN HEALTHCARE We provide an affordable, simplified alternative to traditional health insurance: + Membership can cover 75-90% of your overall healthcare needs

Memberships

+ No contracts or long-term commitments + We help end sick care & promote preventive care

starting at

$75/month Discounts for businesses

Call us to schedule a

FREE CONSULTATION with Dr. Merritt.

Would you like to get in touch with us? We would love to hear from you! Contact us at CityLifestyle.com/ HighlandsRanch using the Get In Touch link and let us know what you think.

| 10099 RidgeGate Parkway, Suite 210

(720) 409-3133 | mintlonetree.com CityLifestyle.com/HighlandsRanch

11

Rates are at an

All Time LOW

Greg Manzanares 303.918.7712 NMLS #1952274

Call Today to Find Out What That Means for You!

#DouglasCountyStrong

NMLS #441950

Since 2001

5200 DTC Blvd STE 200 Greenwood Village, CO 80111

ONE-STOP SHOPPING CALL US FOR A FREE ESTIMATE (303) 773-1311

www.ImagineKitchensAndBaths.net 8130 S U N I V E R S I T Y B LV D L I T T L E TO N , CO LO R A D O 80122

#DouglasCountyStrong

12

Highlands Ranch Lifestyle | October 2020

LOCAL LIMELIGHT

Hidden Gems Br in g Bi g F lavor LOCAL CULINARY BUSINESS OWNERS BRING PASSION AND DEDICATION AND SPREAD THEIR FOOD LOVE IN SOUTH DENVER

High point Creamery's Erika Thomas

Owner: Erika Thomas Website: HighPointCreamery.com

If ice cream trucks of yore are kitschy, banal pleasures,

Cake, Berry Crisp and Dark Chocolate & Espresso Beans.

High Point Creamery’s motto “lavishly crafting joy” sums

Lest you think these flavors are too high brow for kids, they

up the differences. Their aptly named ice cream truck, Big

also offer velvety Milk Chocolate and Vanilla Bean. But kids

Pinky, replaces the tinny music and dulled images with

also love the unique flavor combos like, Cucumber Mint

brilliant, unusual flavor combinations. High Point Creamery

Sorbet and Basil and Blackberry Swirl.

was born from Erika Thomas’ trusty ice cream maker, and

Their innovative flavors even caught the eye of the

husband Chad Stutz’ love of eating ice cream. Founded

Cooking Channel’s Unique Sweets. In addition to the

in 2013, they opened their first shop in the Hilltop neigh-

ice cream shops and food truck, local residents can find

borhood. Big Pinky came next, followed by a catering cart

High Point Creamery products at Whole Foods. They

and two more shops in Denver’s hippest neighborhoods.

are also available for weddings, special and corporate

Now Thomas and Stutz call Highlands Ranch home.

events. Find their shops and ice cream truck locations

They offer signature flavors, such as TinCup Whiskey &

at highpointcreamery.com

Pistachio Brittle, Cookies (3 ways) & Cream, and Salty Dog Chocolate. Seasonal flavors for autumn 2020 include peren-

Favorite item:

nial favorite Joan’s Pumpkin Pie and they are bringing back

Basil with BlackBerry Swirl, such a unique flavor combo,

Zucchini Bread. New this year is Pineapple Upside Down

loved by gourmets and children alike.

14

Highlands Ranch Lifestyle | October 2020

ARTICLE SONJA NIX | PHOTOGRAPHY CAMERON YARUMIAN

High Point Creamery

DETAILS:

Wave the Grain's Allyson Kulinksi

The proverb “Necessity is the Mother of Invention” epitomizes Wave the Grain’s beginnings. The seeds were planted in 2014 when Allyson Kulinski’s son was diagnosed with Celiacs disease. “What is a mom to do with a teenage boy, but now all of his favorite foods are suddenly off limits?”

In typical mom fashion, she started baking. But this comfort food was grounded in purpose; to find baked goods that were the opposite of the tasteless, cardboard-like experience typical of gluten-free food. She started selling her goods at farmers markets, then opened the brick-and-mortar store in 2018. Wave the Grain’s kitchen is 100 percent gluten free in order to completely eliminate the risk of cross contamination. Multiple varieties of baked goods; bread, cakes, pastries and other desserts are available every day.

You can also pop in for an espresso drink and breakfast burrito or ramen to eat there or take to go. Wave the Grain features daily specials that change each day of the week, and are available as a special order any day of the week. Special occasion cakes, such as wedding or birthday cakes can be special ordered. They also offer a DETAILS: Owner: Allyson Kulinski Website: WaveTheGrain.com

Wave The Grain

large variety of take away meals and home essentials like eggs and yeast. They even offer a wide variety of pantry stable and baked keto items. The cannolis are particularly delicious. Wave the Grain is open six days a week, and offer online ordering and delivery. Find them at 8127 South Holly St. or wavethegrain.com

Favorite item: cinnamon rolls. Allyson created the recipe for a friend who loved them as a child and wished to continue the tradition with her sons who are highly sensitive to grains.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/HighlandsRanch

15

LOCAL LIMELIGHT (CONTINUED)

Ornery Olive Charcuterie Co.'s Lindsay DiDonna

DETAILS: Owner: Lindsay DiDonna Website: OrneryOlive.com

Ornery Olive Upon first glance, Olathe, Kansas and Florence, Italy

the Ornery Olive Charcuterie Co. The name comes

don’t appear to have much in common, but the Ornery

from the humble olive, a mainstay of Italian meals, but

Olive Charcuterie Co.’s Lindsay DiDonna found other-

sometimes not a favorite in the US. As she was creating

wise. Growing up in America’s heartland, her childhood

boards, she’d often get requests to omit the olives. To be

home on 40 acres of farmland was frequently filled

true to Italian tradition, she couldn’t leave this import-

with family and friends. Her mother and grandmother

ant part out, but the name recognizes how ornery this

entertained with lavish spreads of fresh vegetables,

little brined bite can be. In just eight months, business

meat and baked goods. It is no surprise then when

has grown exponentially through referrals and repeat

she met her Italian husband, they shared the love of

business into a full-time job.

gathering with close friends and family to enjoy a meal

Ornery Olive is an Ambassador of Divina, which supplies

and good company. Ornery Olive was formed in this

all of her olives, as well as jams and spreads. Ornery Olive

shared history, then fostered during their honeymoon

also partners with Murray’s Cheese of New York, and other

through Italy, where Lindsey became fascinated with

small enterprises to offer the finest ingredients on their

cured meats, cheese, olives and fruit. Once at home in

boards. Find them at orneryolive.com or @orneryolive.

Highlands Ranch, she frequented markets to select the

Favorite item:

finest accoutrements and started creating charcuterie boards for their personal events. After many requests

Caramelized Onion Jam and Chili Fig Spread paired

from friends for her boards for their own parties, in

with Fromager D’Affinois or any triple cream brie that is

March of 2020, Lindsey made it official and started

buttery and mild in flavor.

16

Highlands Ranch Lifestyle | October 2020

Even long-time industry innovators like Epicurean Catering have had to get creative when the food industry was so significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Founded in 1984, founder Larry DiPasquale wanted to create a different experience for his clients than was currently available from other caterers. He set out to freshly prepare food at the event location, instead of offsite as was the industry standard at that time.

Today, Epicurean is an award-winning industry leader which has branched out to be the exclusive caterer for top Denver venues, Professional Sports Hospitality, and restaurant concepts along side its traditional wedding and event catering.

No stranger to reinvention, Epicurean Catering has now also created a whole new way to reach its clients in these uncertain times. Meals on the Move is Epicurean’s answer to take away, served with the refinement and precision they are known for. The offering includes hors d’overs spreads, executive box lunches as well as individual meals, bowls and salads, Meals on the Move serves both business style gatherings, as well as home servings. At the very beginning of the pandemic, Epicurean DETAILS: Owner: Larry DiPasquale Website: EpicureanGroupCo.com

Epicurean Catering

fed 20,000 meals to front-line workers with their Feed Your Community efforts. Coming up next they plan to offer frozen family-style meals. These meals are inspired by the nostalgia and comfort of TV dinners, elevated to Epicurean’s standards. Online ordering available, as is pick up and delivery. Find them at epicureangroupco.com.

Favorite item: Noel Cunningham’s Spaghettini with Baby Clam Sauce, Larry’s favorite to cook at home. The recipe can be found in Epicurean’s upcoming cookbook.

CityLifestyle.com/HighlandsRanch

17

LOCALLY OWNED

GOOD SPIRITS LIQUOR AND WINE REOPENS WITH A COLORADO-STYLE MAKEOVER

Raising Your Spirits MIXED DRINKS OR CRAFT COCKTAILS.

counter was moved to the front of the store so

Neat, shaken, stirred or floated. In a chilled beer

that customers are greeted as they enter.

mug or a fluted stem. However you like your drink, Good Spirits has you in mind.

“Everyday someone walks in with a confused look on their face and asks if they are in the

Longtime Highland Ranch residents Nikki

right store,” Tom says, describing the change in

and Tom Dempsey moved here from out of state,

interior. “We have to reorient them as to where

and intended to stay for just a few years. But like

everything is located. We have so many cus-

many transplants, fell in love with the state, then

tomers who compliment us on the friendly staff,

each other and have lived in Highlands Ranch

remodeled store, and incredible selection.”

for more than 20 years. The community liquor

Even though they both were in medical

store they patronized and had become friendly

devise sales for many years, they’d never

with the staff was at times out of the products

worked together.

they liked to buy, so when they learned the

Nikki says “I love working with Tom. Everyday

longtime owners were selling, they decided to

I am amazed by his creativity and his incred-

take the leap into something new. The Covid-

ible work ethic.”

19 pandemic slowed the process of purchasing

Tom agrees, saying “we learned how to divide

the shop, but they knew that the location of

and conquer key tasks. The important part is to

the shop was very promising, and wanted to

recognize each other’s strengths and trust in

provide an inviting, friendly, and well-stocked

one another. We have found that it has actually

neighborhood liquor store. The name “Good

been rewarding for our relationship.”

Spirits” stands for what they want to create, “when you’re in here, you’re in Good Spirits.”

Since opening, Good Spirits has tripled their inventory, offering a wide range of standard and

The first thing they did was work with pro-

unique wine, beer, spirits, cordials, liqueurs and

fessional designers to completely redesign the

mixers. Both big and small Colorado brewers

interior. Colorado’s own thriving brewing and

are robustly represented here with 440 options.

spirits industry, alongside mountain architec-

The whiskey section is particularly impressive.

ture served as inspiration. Like Coloradans, the

Well-known brands, such as Stranahans, sit

interior is warm and welcoming, with a rustic but

along side smaller Colorado distillers Laws,

modern charm. At the advise of their contrac-

Leopold, Elkins, and 10th Mountain. In the back

tor, Fountain Gate Property Service, Colorado

of the store is a tasting area, which will open

Beetle Kill Pine is featured predominantly, both

once Covid restrictions lift. Customers can join

for the aesthetic, but also the scent. In addition

their free whiskey club to hear first about spe-

to a professionally designed interior, Good

cial discounts and rare allocated bourbons.

Spirits hired graphic designer Matt Dowling to create their vintage styled logo. The checkout

Delivery via goodspiritsliquor.com or the Drizly app.

ARTICLE SONJA NIX | PHOTOGRAPHY JENAE LOPEZ

18

Highlands Ranch Lifestyle | October 2020

CityLifestyle.com/HighlandsRanch

19

toberfest

Buy 2 Pairs Get 1 Free*!

October 1st - 31st, 2020

with

Call Today!

720.279.1240 americanvein.com

*Compression wear purchased must be the same brand to recieve offer. Free pair is equal or lesser value.

T he U ltimate Socia l Din in g Exp erien ce ORNERYOLIVE.COM | C/TEXT 720-256-1625 ORNERYOLIVE@GMAIL.COM 20

Highlands Ranch Lifestyle | October 2020

BRENT D. BAILEY, DDS

& Associates

Many come from out of state to see Dr. Bailey at Colorado Precision Dentistry and Orthodontics. If you live in Colorado, you really need to visit Dr. Bailey and his awesome team.

★★★★★

There is a reason we have abundant 5-star reviews on Google, Yelp, Facebook and RateABiz. Free consults for any dental questions you have.

NO INSURANCE? Ask about our Dental Health Club memberships.

General & Cosmetic Dentistry | Orthodontics | Implants FOR HIGHLANDS RANCH LIFESTYLE READERS WE ARE OFFERING

FREE IN-HOME BLEACHING F O R

N E W

P A T I E N T S

66 W Springer Drive Suite 204 Highlands Ranch 303-791-0472 | copdo.com

QuickBooks Bookkeeping Service

HAVE YOU FALLEN BEHIND IN YOUR BOOKKEEPING? Let It Go and Get It Done Ready To Delegate? Consider It Done!

Call Now For A Free 1 Hour Consultation

(970) 381-7909 // www.PeaceOfMindAcc.com CityLifestyle.com/HighlandsRanch

21

RENOVATE & REFINE

Cozy Spaces for Modern Living ERYN CASKEY OF A RUSTIC BUTTERFLY BRINGS HER OWN AESTHETIC TO MARRY RUSTIC AND MODERN TO REMODELED PERFECTION ARTICLE SONJA NIX | PHOTOGRAPHY JENAE LOPEZ Eryn Caskey of A Rustic Butterfly

CLASSIC. Simple. Rustic. Modern. These are the words Eryn Caskey use to describe her own aesthetic that she brings with her design and remodel business, A Rustic Butterfly.

F i n i s h i n g To u c h e s :

Eryn Caskey grew up in Southern California, and had a natural knack for strong interior design. At a young age she found she was skilled in decorating and arranging furniture to create livable spaces. She then worked in a lighting showroom and for a lighting design firm as a teenager and young adult. Upon moving to Colorado in 2010, Eryn managed the buildout of a new commercial space for a tech firm, which gave her exposure to broader interior redesign projects.

A Rustic Butterfly grew from Eryn’s hobby of refinishing old furniture. She posted a wine bar cabinet she’d redone on

Weathered blue stain pine on the pantry barndoors

Carbon grey stain on the kitchen island legs

Honed Italian marble subway tiles for the backsplash

Natural wood and wicker accessories

Facebook, and received a large amount of positive feedback.

She began to get requests for refinished and custom-built pieces. After working several more years in a corporate environment, all while refinishing furniture on the side, she branched out on her own in 2013. Eryn began to build A Rustic Butterfly’s following on social media which continues to be a main source of exposure and referrals.

“I love old things. I find meaning in everything and know that things that were once beautiful can be made beautiful again with a little love and work,” Eryn says, describing what inspires her.

22

Highlands Ranch Lifestyle | October 2020

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/HighlandsRanch

23

RENOVATE & REFINE (CONTINUED)

Eryn Caskey of A Rustic Butterfly is known locally for her innovative barndoor designs.

24

Highlands Ranch Lifestyle | October 2020

The Franktown project featured here was a complete remodel. There were a few physical challenges, some floor work to move water lines to create room for the radiant heat. But her client was very open and turned the reins over to Eryn.

Like most of The Rustic Butterfly’s work, this project features custom designed and built pieces. The vent hood was built by Eryn herself, as were the barn doors and finished in a carbon gray stain for rustic elegance. She designed the island legs to make the island more furniture-like. The floating shelves were also custom built to fit the space. She added detail by varying the double stacked upper glass cabinets and crown molding.

Client Eric Kulby says “Eryn and her team were dedicated to detail, professional and timely. Eryn brings a real creative mind that helped Susan and I out when making tough decisions with style. Rustic Butterfly was a great experience and we look forward to the next project.”

Eryn truly enjoys the challenges of being one of very few women owned remodeling businesses. “I work alongside my team and do the hard work and heavy lifting, getting my hands dirty.. I do run into the occasional guy who talks down to me, questions my process, vision, and design.

But it is my project, my team and my work, so we make it happen.”

CityLifestyle.com/HighlandsRanch

25

HOT SPOT

FOX HILL FARM BRINGS FARM-TO-TABLE CULTURE TO RESIDENTS AND COMMUNITY

26

Highlands Ranch Lifestyle | October 2020

ARTICLE HANNAH ECHOLS GRIESER | PHOTOGRAPHY JOLIE RODRIGUEZ

Food For Thought PEOPLE ARE ALWAYS EATING. For people who eat three times a day, that equates to around 1,092 meals a year. And that goes without mentioning the snacks and desserts that are sandwiched in the midst of a busy schedule. In this fast-paced environment, it is all too easy to be thoughtless about the food we consume and its origins.

Fox Hill, a residential community planted in the Franktown countryside, is making sure that isn’t the narrative for the members of their neighborhood. After all, it’s hard to ignore where your food comes from when the farm is right across from your house. The crowning feature of Douglas County’s newest custom home development is the fully sustainable garden and orchard located on-site that will provide residents with produce boxes on a weekly basis.

On both sides of Flintwood Road custom homes are growing from the ground up right along with the produce. At the top of the hill, the original farmhouse oversees her domain and sits adjacent to the farm and greenhouse. The farm includes everything from bees that produce local honey to a pumpkin patch for kids to play in during the fall.

Unexpected vagabonds, a tribe of 9 deer, also meander around the farm and periodically thieve a few vegetables.

“They do look healthier than they did a couple months ago,” jokes Shawn Lopez, the farm manager.

Shawn is the main man for just about everything around the farm.

As the farm manager, he ensures that all of the farm’s processes are connected and functioning well. This is the first year that Fox Hill will distribute produce boxes. According to Shawn, the boxes will include chilis, squash, lettuce, herbs, flowers, fennel, and a crowler of beer.

“We promised the community all of these services, so no matter what we will make it work,” Shawn says.

Shawn is especially interested in their hops, a plant cultivated to brew beer. Long vines of hops dangle on wooden posts and almost seem to dance in the slight breeze. They’re adorned with thousands of green, pinecone-like blossoms. When torn in two, the fuzzy hops release the unmistakable aroma of bitter, citrusy beer. All in all, the hops will produce one barrel (about 31.5 gallons) of IPAs and lager for the community.

“Your average beer starts as a dehydrated, pelleted hop. They’re kind of gross,” Shawn says. “If you go to the store and see limited release or seasonal beer, it’s made from fresh hops like these.”

Natural and fresh is the goal. Fox Hill Farm has 52 free range chickens that strut openly around the farm. Their coop is cheekily coined “Cluckingham Palace,” but most of the time they’re out exploring their surroundings.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/HighlandsRanch

27

HOT SPOT (CONTINUED)

“ They promised the communi t y all of these ser vices, so no matter what we will m a k e i t w o r k .”

28

Highlands Ranch Lifestyle | October 2020

“You’re not going to find free-range chickens roaming around like how we have them here,” Shawn says. “In the store, ‘free-range’ typically means that they’re just fenced in rather than caged.”

Another unique quality farm-to-table produce provides is the exclusivity of plant types. Fox Hill has lemon, lime, and spicy basil as well as blue and Indian corn— all varieties that cannot be found in the supermarket. Much of the produce is grown inside of the greenhouse. This allows the farm to provide year-round produce, even in a state like Colorado where the growing season is squeezed between snowfalls. Produce is simply grown inside of the greenhouse and transplanted outside once it becomes warm enough.

Perhaps the most magical element of the greenhouse is one you wouldn’t expect— fish poop. The farm has plenty of tilapia that are fed organic, vegan food. Their waste is distributed as fertilizer to the fruit trees outdoors. Meanwhile, bacteria breaks down and purifies the fish’s urine, which provides clear water to hydrate the indoor plants.

Because of this system, Shawn hasn’t had to fertilize anything inside of the greenhouse. To add organic or vegan fertilizer would cost hundreds of thousands of dollars.

In addition to being economically sustainable, the farm-to-table system is efficient in just about every other realm as well. According to the Natural Resources Defense Council report titled ‘Wasted,’ transporting food from farms accounts for 50 percent of land use in the United States and 80 percent of all freshwater used.

Shawn notes that over 50 percent of food produced on farms in the United States is lost in the transportation process. At Fox Hill, there is no waste due to transport— the consumers are all local, and the food that isn’t consumed by residents will be donated.

Fox Hill only constitutes one neighborhood. However, if other residential areas follow suit in the future, leaps and bounds of progress Fox Hill Farm manager Shawn Lopez

can be made toward more mindful and sustainable communities.

- ELECTRIC BIKES FALL IS IN THE AIR AND BACKCOUNTRY TRAILS ARE CALLING!

FOR THE MONTH OF OCTOBER 10% OFF ALL EMTBS (Electric Mountain Bikes) 303-557-2048 | VOLTAIRECYCLESCO.COM 9579 SOUTH UNIVERSITY BLVD IN HIGHLANDS RANCH CityLifestyle.com/HighlandsRanch

29

REDEFINING YOUR OUTDOOR

living space

Outdoor Living |

H a r d s c a p e s | s t u c c o / m a s o n ry

L i g h t i n g | L a n d sc a p e D e s i g n | C o n st ru c t i o n

303.346 . 0837 | fou re le me ntsl a ndsca pe .co m

OCTOBER IS DENTAL MONTH Studies have shown that a healthy mouth can actually add years to your pet’s life. Dental problems don’t just affect the mouth, either.

Dental disease can have adverse effects on the heart, kidneys, and other major organs. By performing routine cleanings before there are significant problems, we help our pets stay healthier longer.

Don’t turn your nose to Fido’s or Fluffy’s bad breath! That odor might signify a serious health risk, with the potential to damage not only your pet’s teeth and gums but its internal organs as well.

PERSONAL, EFFECTIVE AND EFFICIENT IN-HOME DOG TRAINING 19 years experience|Vet recommended BetterMannersDogTraining.com (720) 448-3689

INDEPENDENTLY OWNED & OPERATED

FREE NAIL TRIMS with other services

15% OFF DENTAL CLEANINGS AND ORAL PROCEDURES

No expiration.

Through the end of October.

8800 SOUTH COLORADO BLVD, HIGHLANDS RANCH 303.619.5191 | altitudeanimalhospital.com 30

Highlands Ranch Lifestyle | October 2020

#DouglasCountyStrong

GREAT INSTRUCTORS! GREAT COMMUNITY!

Pilates Teacher Privates & Small Training Program Group Classes www.fspilates.com | (303) 589-8710 10047 PARK MEADOWS DRIVE, LONE TREE, CO

WWW.ANGELHOUSE.ME CityLifestyle.com/HighlandsRanch

31

DECEMBER INSTALLATIONS ARE PLANNED IN OCTOBER

ADORN YOUR KINGDOM FROM START TO FINISH

Call us today for a remote consultation!

LET OUR IN HOUSE DESIGNERS

CREATE THE SPACE OF YOUR DREAMS

303-766-LION(5466) KCCMileHigh.com

UPDATE FOR THE HOLIDAYS NOW!

contact@kccmilehigh.com 2680 EAST COUNTY LINE ROAD HIGHLANDS RANCH

UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP BY HIGHLANDS RANCH RESIDENTS

COME VISIT US FOR: · Top rated delivery service right to your door · Over 1,400 selections of wine in all varietals including local Colorado wines with 10% off any six bottle purchase · Free Bourbon Club for discounts and first communication for rare allocations · Huge selection of craft, domestic, and imported beers with over 440 craft brews represented, including local Colorado favorites

Great Selection of Craft Beers, Wine, and Spirits | Friendly Staff Weekly Specials | Loyalty Program | Inviting Atmosphere

» Home and Curbside Delivery Available! « 9553 S. UNIVERSITY BLVD.

Next Door to King Soopers (303) 791-6356 | GoodSpiritsLiquor.com

Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis?

Hypo/Hyperthyroid?

Restore your thyroid naturally with homeopathic and herbal medicine.

Free 15 Minute Phone Consultation B O O K O N L I N E AT W W W. D M D N AT U R A L M E D I C I N E . C O M BOARD CERTIFIED TR ADITIONAL NATUROPATH

8683 Lincoln Avenue, Lone Tree | (303) 999-0019 CityLifestyle.com/HighlandsRanch

33

CULINARY CREATIONS

Perfect Banana Bread

NO MATTER WHAT YOU THINK YOU KNOW ABOUT YOUR FAVORITE SNACK CAKE, THIS JUNIOR LEAGUE RECIPE WILL CHANGE YOUR MIND ARTICLE CARRIE LEIGH HUCKABAY PHOTOGRAPHY BETHANY FIELDS

WHEN I WAS A NEW BRIDE, WAY BACK IN THE ‘90S, I RECEIVED MANY SHOWER GIFTS THAT WEREN’T ON THE REGISTRY. You’ve all been there, right? Someone went off book. Along with many curiosities, I got a copy of Necessities and Temptations, The Cookbook of the Junior League of Austin, Texas. I’ve made dozens of recipes from that cookbook, but everyone’s favorite is the Banana Bread.

I know what you’re thinking. Yawn. Turn the page. ‘I already have a favorite banana bread recipe.’ Whatever your excuse is for not making this recipe, I’m telling you that it isn’t good enough. Make it today. Over the years, I’ve added and subtracted ingredients, so this isn’t exactly what the Junior League put out all those years ago, but it’s certainly worth a try!

INGREDIENTS Bread: + 1 1/2 cups sugar + 1/2 cup butter + 1/2 cup butter flavored shortening + 2 eggs + 4 ripe bananas, mashed + 1 teaspoon vanilla extract + 4 tablespoons buttermilk + 2 cups all purpose flour + 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda + 1 teaspoon salt Topping: + 6 tablespoons butter + 10 tablespoons brown sugar + 5 tablespoons milk or heavy cream + 3/4 cup chopped pecans PREPARATION 1. Preheat oven to 350F. 2. Cream butter and sugar. Beat eggs and add to sugar mixture. Add bananas, buttermilk and vanilla.

3. Sift together flour, soda and salt. Add to banana mixture. Beat well.

4. Pour into two greased and floured 9 x 5 x 3 inch pans.

Carrie Leigh Huckabay is an actress, playwright and avid cook. Find her @carriehuckabay or CarrieHuckabay.com

5. Bake 45 to 50 minutes or until bread pulls away from the sides of the pan. Cool.

6. To prepare topping, melt butter in saucepan. Add sugar and milk. Cook until syrupy.

7. Remove from heat and add chopped pecans. Pour over bread and place under the broiler, watching closely for 5 minutes or until browned.

34

Highlands Ranch Lifestyle | October 2020

REFINED&CONSIGN furniture finds interior design

Amazing Prices

High-End Consigned Furniture

Affordable Luxurious Bedding

Custom Drapery

Custom Upholstery

7562 S. University Blvd. • 720-353-4889 • refinedcd.com

Your Roof Protects Everything Your roof should be inspected on a regular basis.

Complimentary Inspections

$500 Off Upgrade to Impact Resistant

Roof Replacements - Repairs - Inspections - Certifications

Local Company Veteran Owned Integrity Focused

303-647-3506 5-stars on

TOP 1% of Roof Cos.