Memorial, TX January 2023

Fresh Beginnings

WELL, HELLO JANUARY!  It’s a brand spanking new year, historically the perfect opportunity for a clean slate. We humans love nothing more than new beginnings and the promise of a fresh start! But before you dive right in, consider pausing in a space of stillness and gratitude to reflect on where you have been, the lessons which presented themselves over the past year, and how you might ‘design’ this new one with intention.  The practice of establishing new goals or a resolution for the coming year allows us to re-align ourselves with what we currently value most in life. A mental housekeeping session also serves to refresh the soul!

We all know that some of the most popular New Year’s resolutions center around getting healthier or spending more time with the people we cherish.  Other goals may be more community-centric or with a heart for giving back to those in need.  Isn’t it amazing that every small act of kindness can literally change lives?

Perhaps you have been dreaming of turning a hobby into a new business? Today would be a great day to start jotting down your blueprint while enjoying your cup of joe!  Starting with your WHY and brainstorming ideas around your desired outcome are all worthy first steps. Andrew Carnegie sums up the value of goal setting brilliantly: “If you want to be happy, set a goal that commands your thoughts, liberates your energy and inspires your hopes.”

And speaking of entrepreneurial inspiration, this jam-packed issue is dedicated to several local businesses who are making a big difference in the health and wellness space. The importance of finding balance and aligning a healthy body, mind and spirit can be a rewarding goal and is the focus of this special issue.  Our hope for you in this New Year is one of wellness, health, love, and fun.

Cheers to making 2023 your very best year yet!

SCHAKETT, PUBLISHER @MEMORIALLIFESTYLE

SUZANNE

HOUSTON SHOWROOM 713.465.4800 8560 KATY FREEWAY, SUITE 160 HOUSTON, TX 77024 BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

city scene

1: Brittany Boone, James Davidhizar, Noe and Mandy Negrete at the Elijah Rising gala. 2: Celebrating a decade of fighting sex trafficking Natalie, Adam Rapacki at the Elijah Rising gala. 3: The Buckingham honored past and present Veterans with the unveiling of their Honors Wall 4: Veterans Bill Allison (pictured) and George McCullough were honored by the Buckingham on November 11th 5: Emily Robles, Lane Bogue & Nicole Calderon at the topping out celebration for The Hawthorne. 6: Ginger Barber & Sammi Schoelman at Habitat For Horses’ 11th annual barnraiser that raised over $50,000. 7: Derek & Sveta Darnell at Pelican Builders topping out milestone for its 17-story high-rise, The Hawthorne.

DANIEL ORTIZ

ALEX MONTOYA

ALEX MONTOYA

THE BUCKINGHAM

THE BUCKINGHAM

e x i S a k o w i t z M a r e k i s a r e a l e s t a t e a g e n t a f fi l i a t e d w i t h C o m p a s s C o m p a s s s a i c e n s e d b r o k e r a g e t h a t a b d e s b y a l f e d e r a l s t a t e a n d l o c a l l a w s . E q u a H o u s i n g O p p o r t u n t y

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business monthly

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Midway Achieves Fitwel Certification for CityCentre 5 Office Tower

Midway, a privately owned, fully-integrated real estate investment, management and development firm, announced that they have achieved Fitwel® certification for CITYCENTRE 5. Fitwel is the world’s leading certification system committed to building health for all. Fitwel is a rigorous, thirdparty healthy building certification system operated by the Center for Active Design (CfAD) that sets the industry standard for evidence-based strategies to promote positive health outcomes for building occupants and communities.

Photography

Want to

featured? Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Memorial

Photo credit Shannon O’Hara.

The Memorial Moms Association (MMA) welcomes Memorial area moms with babies, preschool, and high school-aged children. The group recently opened its membership to include moms who reside in 77055 whose children are zoned to Memorial High School (MHS), as well as private school moms if their home address is zoned to MHS.  The group hosts several fun events each month. Find more details on the Memorial Moms Association Facebook page.

Tim Wo Han Makes Its Debut in Katy

Michelin-rated Tim Ho Wan opened doors earlier this month at its first dim sum restaurant in Katy. Chef Mak, founder of the international chain, was on-site from Hong Kong to oversee the opening. The Katy location is run by Chef Paul Li, a well-known dim sum specialist with 35 years of experience. The restaurant has 5 other U.S. locations. including New York, Irvine, Honolulu and Las Vegas. 23330 Grand Circle Blvd, Suite 180, Katy, TX 77449.  timhowanusa.com

Ready, Set, Goals!

ARTICLE BY MEMORIAL LIFESTYLE STAFF

A new year is upon us, and it is a great time to get organized in every aspect of life. Dai Smith, owner of Simplicity by Day started her business in 2021 because as an entrepreneur and professional, she was feeling overwhelmed. “I realized that as a professional organizer, there must be a better way to stay digitally organized that didn’t require time and money spent on the wrong systems,” says Smith. “I developed a system for digital organizing, in the same way that I created a system for physical organization. As I began working with more professionals and  small business owners, I realized they needed this as well.”

She uses her experience as a productivity and project management expert coupled with her work as a professional organizer to help serve others who need to streamline their systems. Simplicity by Day offers several services including home and business organizing, relocating management, virtual organizing webinars, bootcamps and fullday organization events.

Smith has one piece of advice for everyone trying to get organized in the new year – “don’t be afraid to ask for help.” She advises her clients to surround themselves with experts to assist both personally and professionally. “Whether that’s a great coach, CPA, attorney, networking partner OR a housekeeper, meal planner or babysitter, we are not meant to do this alone.”

Smith offers six tips to get organized in several different areas from business to home and digital organization.

Small Business & Productivity Tips:

1. Brainstorm what your business needs are and find the tool or system to support you. Leverage technology to your advantage - there are hundreds of resources that can assist you and your business.

2 Keep it simple. Focus on being amazing and well-known for one thing and be the expert there.

Home Organization and Design Tips:

1. The number one question I get from clients before we start the organizing process is: “where do I start?” Start with the room that will make the biggest impact for the greatest number of people.

2. I love great organization products and my go-to products for nearly any space are: lazy susans, clear bins, shelf organizers, drawer organizer bins and wicker baskets.

Digital Organization Tips:

1. A project management system is essential for digital organization. Asana, Trello, Monday and Click Up are great places to start.

2. Get control of your email inbox. Consolidate your emails to one inbox by redirecting the emails into specifically labeled folders. Next, use the filtering and tagging systems to organize incoming messages, then automate them so that the emails go into the correct folders or trash folders.

Dai Smith, is the owner of Simplicity By Day, LLC in Houston, TX. She is a productivity coach and digital organizer. Dai helps entrepreneurs be more present, productive and profitable by upgrading their organizing systems and processes.

Dai Smith, owner of Simplicity by Day shares tips on how to start the new year with an organized outlook.

Michelle Miller Broker Associate 713.870.8098 mmiller@compass com

LEVEL UP

Expert Advice for your 2023

Fitness Goals

ARTICLE BY MEMORIAL LIFESTYLE STAFF | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAUREN HOLUB PHOTOGRAPHY

Experts from two F45 Training locations share tips on starting a fitness journey in 2023.

DAVID FORD Multi-Studio Owner

It is much easier to achieve your health and fitness goals with a community of like-minded individuals pushing you to succeed rather than going at it alone. Our mission at F45 is to provide sustainable, life-changing results in a fun, inclusive environment. The hardest part is walking through the front doors. We take care of everything else - individualized strength and conditioning programming, nutritional guidance, goal setting and tracking.

H EAD COACH DUSTIN

F45 Training Memorial Houston

The best way to start a fitness journey is to jump in, knowing you are not alone. The same kind of bond that soldiers have with the people they serve with is the same type of experience that clients get with F45. Whether it’s suffering through a cardio class on a Monday or hitting some heavy lifting on a Thursday, you will never be alone in the struggle. We challenge our clients to dig in and see what they are made of.

ERIN BERGER

RDN, LN, CPT F45 Memorial Coach

To change your life and get the best results in 2023, I recommend avoiding strict diets and plans that don’t allow for flexibility. Temporary diets and programs lead to temporary results that don’t last. Make small changes you can consistently stick with longterm because even the best plan will only work with long-term consistency. F45’s expert-formatted classes offer everything you need to see significant progress and stay motivated.

HEAD COACH VK

F45

Training Energy Corridor

Identify your support system filled with those willing to uplift, encourage and hold you accountable. Establish your why so you have something to get you through when you want to quit. Develop a plan that includes your new goals and keep it simple, from your food to your activity. Track your progress by taking pictures and measurements. Celebrate yourself to keep motivated to reach future goals.

BRANDON BUCKNER

ATC, CPT F45 Memorial & Energy Corridor Coach

If you’re going to be successful on your fitness journey, you must begin by deciding that you’re going to make changes to your daily life. Starting a new lifestyle begins with a commitment to yourself. Secondly, surround yourself with like-minded people. Continuously working out with people in that mindset will help eliminate excuses. It is vital to work with highly skilled fitness instructors who will help educate, motivate and hold you accountable at all times.

PUSHING THE LIMITS

ARTICLE BY GABI DE LA ROSA PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF GIL BRUVEL

Gil Bruvel is a Texas-based sculptor known for his large-scale sculptures depicting flowing lines with rigid materials. His sculptures, seen in the United States and internationally in China and Europe, explore the juxtaposition between fluidity and rigidity. His process explores the possibility of using materials in unexpected ways.

Bruvel was born in Australia, raised in the south of France, and influenced by surrealist artists like Salvador Dali, Max Ernst and Giorgio de Chirico. His most recent series, Bending the Lines, began using rigid maple wood sticks to create flowing lines. This series morphed into depicting the human face in peaceful pixelated forms.

We sat down with Bruvel to discuss his inspiration, craft and artistic themes.

TEXAS-BASED ARTIST GIL BRUVEL, KNOWN FOR HIS PIXELATED SCULPTURES, SHARES INSIGHT INTO HIS CREATIVE PROCESS.

HOW DO YOU CREATE YOUR PIXELATED FORMS?

The materials are wood sticks, glue, nails, paint and a torch because I burn the wood. I start at the bottom, layering the sticks one after the other to create the first layer. Once the first layer is dry, I pile up the sticks using a little clay model as a visual reference. Every time I create a face, I try to do different facial features, because I want to depict humanity, and it helps to have a visual reference for that. It also helps with proportions and keeping symmetry.

WHERE DO YOU FIND INSPIRATION?

Being an artist is always about gathering knowledge and learning as much as possible. I feel that inspiration comes first from the natural world –inspiration from nature is practically infinite. It is inspiring to understand patterns of nature and how things grow from things we see every day. Right now, my inspiration is exploring the human form through the face and infusing it with a sense of peace, so my audience can relate to it.

WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU’RE NOT INSPIRED?

I know there is an idea that artists get a creative block, but I don’t experience that. From a very young age, I have done vipassana meditation which helps me tremendously through the creative process, and it also helps boost my creative energy.

WHAT ARE YOUR IDEAL WORKING CONDITIONS?

I created my studio space on a compound outside of Wimberly. It is definitely in the countryside, which I relate to more than urban confinement. I have every tool I need in my studio, with workshops and space to create my art.

HOW HAS YOUR WORK CHANGED OVER TIME?

I want to discover new creative ways to create art and express myself. The sense of wonder one has as a child is essential, and I like to keep that feeling going. My father was a cabinet maker, so I grew up in a wood workshop which is why I am drawn to working with wood, but I work with many different materials, including metal and paint. Ninety-nine percent of the time, I get to do what I love the most: create art.

WHAT THEMES DO YOU FIND MOST INTERESTING?

Right now, it is definitely the morphology of the face – the expression of serenity and peace to recenter yourself and find a sense of balance. Essentially creating new forms and shapes is why the human face is such an inspiration for me.

Artist Gil Bruvel’s work can be seen locally at Laura Raithe Fine Art.

“I want to discover new creative ways to create art and express myself. The sense of wonder one has as a child is essential, and I like to keep that feeling going.”

– Gil Bruvel

One-on-one, in-home tutoring to meet your students where they are on their academic journey. Whether acing a test, preparing for college entrance exams, or applying to a university-

Local Savories

LIFESTYLE STAFF

ARTICLE BY MEMORIAL

Karne, Tuna Tartare Taco.

Photo Credit Jenn Duncan

KARNE

Karne, a modernist Korean Steakhouse, the creation of restaurateur Jason Cho and Chef Yurum “KP” Nam, opened last month. The stunning space, beautiful in its elegant simplicity – features prime beef, American and Japanese wagyu, and meats dry-aged in-house and cooked to order by tableside hosts. Located in the historic Heights neighborhood, Karne is the first fine-dining Korean Steakhouse to bring one of the world’s most influential food cultures to the city.

Chef Nam has extensive experience in notable kitchens in New York City, including The Modern and Gramercy Tavern. His training lends itself to a menu influenced by Korea, Texas and New York.

Private dining rooms are available by reservation and will feature a multi-course chef’s tasting menu. Several dishes, with a nod to American steakhouses, include flavor-packed twists, clearly re-imagined with Korean culinary roots. Karne uses the finest seasonal ingredients to highlight the balanced integrity of the restaurant’s flavors. The big city vibe

of Karne is married with the Korean spirit of Jeong – a feeling of friendship, warmth, kindness, and the fraternity of communal experiences at the table. karnehtx.com

EAT

The menu at Karne centers around beef and includes several different cuts and grades of meat.

DRINK

Guests will enjoy a bespoke cocktail list, and 173 wines have been selected to enhance the dining experience.

EXPERIENCE

All the meat dishes at Karne are grilled tableside by highly trained hosts. Diners can order a la carte or a platter with several cuts of meat along with kimchi, soup, dipping sauces and more.

Karne, Land & Sea. Photo Credit Jenn Duncan

POST OAK GRILL

Post Oak Grill has been serving delicious New American cuisine with Texas and Mexican influences since it opened in 1989. The Tanglewood restaurant is known for its attention to detail and top-of-theline service. A favorite of many in the Memorial and Tanglewood areas, the restaurant’s wait staff greets regulars by name.

Chef Polo began his career in the kitchen as a dishwasher. He eventually moved up the culinary ranks in Mexico before moving to the United States. After working for several years in the kitchen at Post Oak Grill, he became a partner in the restaurant and has remained at the helm since 2002. Chef Polo ensures an unforgettable dining experience and consistently leaves an indelible impression with his “Picassoesque” creation of unique dishes.

Guests at Post Oak Grill will enjoy light, fresh starters and various salads, including the famed Polo’s Chopped Caesar. Entrees include Roasted Pork Tenderloin, Chicken Genovese and fresh seafood options like rainbow trout and seared ahi tuna.

The restaurant also boasts a large wine list and signature cocktail menu, as well as an array of house-made desserts. postoakgrill.com

EAT

Guests can take advantage of dine-in, takeout or catering & delivery is available for corporate events and special occasions.

DRINK

Perfect for evening cocktails with friends or coworkers, with weekday happy hour specials from 4:30 to 7:30 each weekday evening featuring signature cocktails, wine and more.

EXPERIENCE

Live music weekly. Check Post Oak Grill’s calendar of events for more details.

Photo courtesy of Post Oak Grill.

VELVET TACO

Velvet Taco’s 23rd Texas location opened in Memorial this fall. Originally Dallas’ pioneering taco restaurant, Velvet Taco continues to bring its eclectic, chef-driven menu to over 35 locations.

Velvet Taco Memorial City General Manager Teccora Biggers says, “We are proud to bring Velvet Taco to the Memorial City community, a community that has needed our tacos for some time. We’re hoping to make a splash with our eclectic, chef-driven menu, and I think folks will find that there is something for everyone on our menu. Our electric vibe and a diverse menu will become a gathering place for all members of this community.”

The dining room is filled with a mix of modern, quirky and collected furnishings – featuring handpainted interior and exterior murals by Sebastien Boileau of Eyeful Art. While each Velvet Taco has a distinct design and decor personality, one thing remains true for all locations—guests are greeted by the larger-than-life painting of Marie Antoinette eating red velvet cake, commissioned by artist Laura Shull. velvettaco.com/location/memorial-city

EAT

Chefs use the freshest and finest quality ingredients to hand-prepare menu items from scratch, including the Spicy Tikka Chicken, Cuban Pig and perhaps the most unique taco on the menu, the Chicken & Waffle.

DRINK

Guests can enjoy a wide range of beverages, including local and Mexican beer, fruit-infused iced teas and cocktails like the signature Kick Ass Margarita.

SPECIALS

Try the limited-time Weekly Taco Feature, commonly known as the WTF. WTFs (52 per year) offer a variety of flavors inspired by international cuisines, local comfort food, and skillful combinations, and they are available for only seven days.

Photo courtesy of Velvet Taco.

SNAP KITCHEN

Snap Kitchen, Texas’ best source for healthy, on-the-go meals and snacks, reopened  its second brick and mortar Houston location in Memorial Villages in September. Snap Kitchen Memorial Villages offers quick, healthy meal options for a variety of different dietary preferences such as Keto, Whole 30, Paleo, Low Carb, High Protein, gluten free and more.

Snap Kitchen will be kicking off the new year with its Resolution Revolution campaign, the idea that eating healthy doesn’t have to taste like cardboard, and your 2023 resolutions don’t need to be abrupt, restrictive or short term.

Snap’s Resolution Revolution gives customers the freedom to eat what they crave and still feel amazing. Resolve to indulge with Snap’s newest meals inspired by your favorite Homestyle Classics! Enjoy all the flavors of American home cooking in a way that’s perfectly portioned and cooked by their Texas-based chefs. local.snapkitchen.com

EAT

The January Homestyle Classic Menu includes Southern Meatloaf, Pot Roast Chicken, Salisbury Steak and a Country Breakfast Bowl. Enjoy sides like Parmesan Roasted Broccoli or Brownie Batter Chia Pudding.

SPECIALS

Snap Pass is a new membership program that offers customers even more flexibility and convenient ways to enjoy Snap’s delicious and healthy chef-prepared meals. Snap Pass members can set up a flexible weekly recurring order from Snap Kitchen’s broad assortment of ready-to-eat nutritious meals, drinks, snacks and more, via the new Snap Kitchen app and online. Members can shop all of Snap Kitchen’s selections with 5% off every order and other perks.

Photo courtesy of Snap Kitchen.

ZALAT PIZZA

Zalat Pizza, the cult-favorite pizza concept, opened a location in Memorial City in November. The Zalat brand is known for pushing the envelope on traditional pizza recipes as well as continuing to be bold and inventive. All pizzas are handmade using scratch ingredients, including their dough for the perfect NYC-style crust and house made sauce with oven-roasted Roma tomatoes and fresh basil.

Named Nation’s Restaurant News “2021 Hot Concepts” and QSR 40/40 in the same year, Zalat is known for elevating the pizza classics like the common pepperoni pizza with their Pepperoni Masterclass, featuring a heaping serving of 100% beef pepperoni, oregano, cracked black pepper and chopped garlic. Beyond the basics, however, Zalat offers an irreverent spin on pizzas such as the Nashville Hot Chicken & Pickles, Pho Shizzle, Elote, The Sweet Revenge, Pineapple Express and more. An equally famous and crave-able must-have

is SriRANCHa™, their signature dipping sauce. A combination of Sriracha and ranch dressing, this is the perfect mind-blowing pizza dipping sauce. So famous, it has a following of its own. zalatpizza.com

EAT

Zalat’s menu is all pizza, all the time, plus one side salad. No calzones or pasta dishes, no burgers or sandwiches. By design, the restaurant doesn’t want to make anything except pizza so they can make it as perfectly as possible.

EXPERIENCE

The Memorial  location will offer limited seating, late-night hours, takeout and delivery.

Photo courtesy of Zalat Pizza.

Fresh Perspective

Seemingly on every corner, chain pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens make it easy to overlook other options like independently owned pharmacies. Many people may think there aren’t alternatives to fill prescriptions or get pharmaceutical advice, but We Care Rx is dedicated to changing that perception.

ARTICLE BY MEMORIAL LIFESTYLE STAFF

IMPROVED CUSTOMER SERVICE

Located in The Shops at Memorial City, We Care Rx is owned and operated by Dr. Brandy Williams who believes customer service is the cornerstone of her business. In business for five years, her pharmacists and technicians listen to their patients’ needs.

SHORTER WAIT TIMES

Typically, customers have shorter wait times at independent pharmacies. We Care Rx’s highly trained staff respects their customer’s time by filling prescriptions quickly and efficiently.

We Care Rx shares five reasons to make the switch to an independent pharmacy.

Dr. Brandy Williams, owner of We Care Pharmacy. Photo courtesy of We Care Rx.

IMPROVED PATIENT EDUCATION

Independent pharmacies offer improved patient education by employing smaller staff and experienced pharmacists. Unlike chain pharmacies, they have the time to ensure customers understand their medications and answer questions.

LOW-COST ALTERNATIVES

We Care Rx offers low-cost alternatives like non-sterile compounding, a service most chains do not offer their customers. Chain pharmacies do not have the time to research less expensive medication options or reach out to physicians to discuss prescription alternatives, but at a smaller pharmacy, both of those are part of everyday business.

CONVENIENT CONCIERGE SERVICES

We Care Rx offers easy and convenient options like delivery services, immunizations and over the counter medications. They offer delivery in Houston, Texas and surrounding areas to ensure the health and wellbeing of their patients.

Photo courtesy of We Care Rx.

A

ARTICLE BY MEMORIAL LIFESTYLE STAFF

Michael Beard, J. Flowers and Robin Mooney. Photo credit Al Torres Photography

After losing a sister to addiction, Dr. James Flowers pivoted his 30-year career in medicine to concentrate on creating an integrated approach to health. Founded in 2019, he founded his namesake institute to focus on integrating medicine, mental health, and a substance abuse disorder program. J. Flowers Health Institute's team of highly trained medical professionals takes a 360-degree look at a person's conditions through a comprehensive evaluation process to ensure a concrete diagnosis focused on lifelong health and wellness.

"We specialize in complex cases, and it's normal for us to diagnose co-occurring disorders that other providers might overlook," says Flowers. "Some health issues we uncover and treat include chronic pain, anxiety, depression, eating and substance use disorders, bipolar, spectrum disorders and OCD."

Located in the Redstone Building on the Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa campus, J. Flowers Health Institute believes that a concierge approach to healthcare benefits each patient. They go above and beyond

to ensure top-of-the-line, cutting-edge healthcare and hospitality that meets their client's needs with bespoke and convenient options.

Although Houston has access to one of the most extensive medical facilities in the world, J. Flowers Health Institute is one of the few that offers a groundbreaking and completely customized approach to health and longevity. We sat down with the J. Flowers team, where they shared four pillars of their innovative approach to health and wellness.

• J. Flowers Health Institute delivers the future of healthcare for adults and adolescents through concierge diagnostics and integrative treatment. Their uncompromising approach to whole-person health and wellness leaves no detail to chance during a client's time with them.

• Their Living MRI™ Concierge Diagnostic Evaluation Program uncovers the true source of any health issue and illuminates the most effective path to optimal wellness. The timeliness of their reports and diagnostic impressions allows

the next appropriate level of care to begin promptly with a broad and deep understanding of the individual's health and wellness.

• A collaborative team approach is the heart of their program, with a dedicated multidisciplinary team providing integrative mental health, medical, and substance use disorder treatment appropriate to each individual's unique circumstances. Each client that walks through their doors receives steadfast support throughout their healing process.

• J Flowers Health Institute’s concierge approach supports a journey back to health through a life-changing, highly-individualized transformation. Their state-of-the-art medical facilities, access to the largest medical campus in the world, and private partnerships with exquisite hotels and spas ensure they deliver an exceptional experience. Clients of J. Flowers Health Institute can focus and heal in discreet comfort. jflowershealth.com

Michael Beard, J. Flowers and Robin Mooney.

Photo credit Al Torres Photography

events

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

JANUARY 3RD-8TH

Pretty Woman: The Musical

SAROFIM HALL - THE HOBBY CENTER, 800 BAGBY | 7:30 PM

Based on one of Hollywood’s most beloved romantic stories of all time, this touring show springs to life with a powerhouse creative team led by two-time Tony Award-winning director and choreographer Jerry Mitchell. Brought to the stage by lead producer Paula Wanger and featuring an original score by Grammy winner Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance and based on the book by legendary director Garry Marshall. thehobbycenter.org

JANUARY 8TH

Michael Cavanaugh: The Music of Billy Joel and Elton John

JONES HALL, 615 LOUISIANA ST HOUSTON, TX 77006 | 2:30 PM

The Music of Billy Joel and Elton John features the greatest hits of the piano rocking pop icons of the modern era performed by Michael Cavanaugh. Songs include: Rocket Man, I’m Still Standing, Candle in the Wind, Movin’ Out, My Life, Piano Man, and many more. Tickets start at $29. houstonsymphony.org

JANUARY 14TH-15TH

The Oak Ridge Boys

THE GRAND 1894 OPERA HOUSE, 2020 POSTOFFICE ST, GALVESTON TX 77550 | 7:30 PM

Whether you’re a fan of smooth four-part gospel harmonies or upbeat country songs, the distinctive sound of The Oak Ridge Boys is legendary! Their string of hits includes the country-pop chart-topper “Elvira,” as well as “Bobbie Sue,” “Dream On,” “Thank God for Kids” and many others. The Oak Ridge Boys Boys put on a high-energy stage show that’ll have old and young alike groovin’ along to the music. thegrand.com

JANUARY 25THMARCH 5TH

Cirque du Soleil's KOOZA Returns to Houston

SAM HOUSTON RACE PARK, 7575 N. SAM HOUSTON PKWY. W. HOUSTON, TX 77064 | 7:30 PM KOOZA is a dazzling, kid-friendly show that celebrates the origin of Cirque du Soleil and the celebration of two circus traditions – acrobatic performance and the art of clowning, while exploring fear, identity, recognition and power. The Innocent's journey brings him into contact with comic characters from an electrifying world full of surprises, thrills, audacity and total involvement. cirquedusoleil.com/kooza

JANUARY 25TH-29TH

Houston Auto Show / Houston Boat Show

NRG CENTER, ONE NRG PARK HOUSTON TX, 77054 | 11:00 AM

The Houston Auto Show is combined this year with the Houston Boat Show for a one-time special event. This is an opportunity to test drive multiple vehicles while at the show, admire classic vehicles as well as exploring boating, fishing, camping and watersports products. General admission tickets are $15 and children under 5 years are free. houstonautoshow.com

JANUARY 26TH-29TH

Craig Robinson at Houston Improv

HOUSTON IMPROV COMEDY CLUB, 7620 KATY FWY #455, HOUSTON, TX 77024 | 7:30 PM

Headlining venues and festivals across the country, Craig Robinson entertains with both solo acts as well as full-band sets with his band “The Nasty Delicious.” While Craig was studying education in Chicago he discovered his love of acting and comedy when he joined the famed Second City Theatre. He is best known for the hit show "The Office", as well as a variety of movies. improvtx.com

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Memorial

LEGGINGS 3 WAYS

As we move through the season of spandex when most of us feel we’d rather not leave our stretchy pants, we wanted to feature three distinct looks using the same pair of Foil Snake Print Faux Leather leggings from Spanx.

ARTICLE BY HALEY WILLIAMS

Whether you’re brunching with the babes or getting ready for date night, these versatile leggings can carry you through from casual to chic. While there are endless ways to wear them, we’re going to show you three ways to start styling them today.

BRUNCH AFTER BARRE

Who doesn’t love a good brunch with the girls after your workout complete with mimosas to celebrate? Assuming you are sweaty from leg lifts and flutter kicks, our suggestion is to layer your sweaty tank with loose layers and a light jacket to swiftly transition you from the barre to breakfast.

A hat is always a good option to have on hand in case you worked too hard and that hair is showing it. We opted for easy-to-slip-on sockless sneakers that breathe. Since feet are one of the ways the body regulates temperature, you want to go airy with your footwear after a workout.

Lastly, don’t forget a cute tote or bag. Consider throwing in a clean tank and any makeup or face wipes you may need for freshening up on your way.

Our suggestions for styling faux leather leggings

MOTO MAMA

What we love about Spanx is their inherent ability to elevate your look, regardless of the occasion. Stretchy pants in a faux leather snake design? Say no more. Pair them with edgy booties or colorful pumps for a more elegant aesthetic. Playing with different textures is a good way to add interest and intrigue. Consider a chunky sweater with some unexpected details like the bare shoulder shown here, a thick boucle or intricate detailing. We love a good leather jacket with hardware details draped over the shoulder(s) for chilly evenings as you traverse the town. Pair this look with a gorgeous sparkly clutch and chunky bracelet.

Whether you’re headed to a child’s sports game or a bar to watch the big game with your friends, leggings offer the structure and flexibility you’ll want as you find your spot among the fans in the bleachers or indulge in some lovely libations.

Layers are life for this look. We tied a button-down around the waist which is so nice through the colder winter months as both an outfit accessory and a layering piece. Fur-lined high tops provide practical footwear for this look — because who doesn’t love some killer sneaks? A shacket and crossover bag complete the look.

SATURDAY SPORTS CHIC

Whether you want a bit of a boost, a hint of a lift, or just a little tuck, you won’t go wrong with this versatile shapewear. And with these styling tips, you’re ready to throw them on for any occasion!

Snag some of the key details of the outfits here!

8580 Woodway Houston, TX 77063 (713) 597-3489

8580 Woodway Houston, TX 77063 (713) 597-3489

BuckinghamHouston.com

BuckinghamHouston.com

Open the door to a new future.

You got to where you are by always looking ahead. At The Buckingham, we’ve been doing the same thing — and we think you’ll find the vision of the future here spectacular. Everything that’s made us exceptional — thoughtful luxury, beauty and comfort — is now even more exceptional. But one thing hasn’t changed, the real luxury of authentic relationships that will touch your heart, inspire your mind and raise your spirit.

You got to where you are by always looking ahead. At The Buckingham, we’ve been doing the same thing — and we think you’ll find the vision of the future here spectacular. Everything that’s made us exceptional — thoughtful luxury, beauty and comfort — is now even more exceptional. But one thing hasn’t changed, the real luxury of authentic relationships that will touch your heart, inspire your mind and raise your spirit.