OKC, OK May 2024

Page 1

The Ladies Issue

LIFE + CULTURE OUR 2024 WOMEN OF INFLUENCE

TIPS FOR ASPIRING WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS

ARTS + CULTURE PLENTY MERCANTILE: WHERE SUSTAINABILITY MEETS HOSPITALITY

MAY 2024
CUSTOM HOMES · RENOVATIONS · KITCHENS · BATHS Call 405.226.3560 or visit randolphdb.com 6440 Avondale Drive, Ste 200 in Nichols Hills Plaza
Furniture & design for sophisticated living. henryinteriors.com | Brookhaven Village • 3720 W Robinson St • Norman | 405.321.1000 | @HenryHomeInteriors
www.montecristoironworks.com 405.787.0111 5609 NW 4th Street, Oklahoma City, OK 73127 Custom Doors and Remodels

Welcome to Our Ladies Issue!

Every May, we devote the issue to lauding the many outstanding women in our community: the sung and unsung heroes, the change-makers and trend-setters, the role models and mentors, the agents of social change...

In our article on influential women, we profile four individuals in our community representing very different professions: a urogynecologist, a prosthodontist, a real estate company owner, and the proprietor of an upscale furniture shop. We think you'll enjoy reading about the work they do, both in their place of business and in their community. See story on page 22.

Meet entrepreneur and former Fortune 500 executive Donna Miller, co-founder and CEO of the Edmond-based Purse Power Inc. In this article, she offers advice to would-be and fledgling women entrepreneurs and discusses the mission behind Purse Power, which works to help women nationwide use their trillions of dollars of collective economic power to create, support and improve opportunities for women and girls. See story, page 28.

You'll read about PLENTY Mercantile & Venue. Its three metro locations offer thoughtfully made, mindfully sourced goods and gifts. The concept behind PLENTY was created and developed by Brittney Matlock and her mother, Traci Walton, who say that being from two different generations allows them to see how the landscape of women-led business has evolved over time. See story, page 18.

In closing, we'd like to invite readers to pause to reflect on the women who have played an important role in their lives. Likely, for many of us, that list starts with our mother (and/or grandmother or other relative), but also may include teachers, counselors, supervisors, coaches, mentors, and others. If at all possible, why not thank them in person, or send them a card?

In our household, and likely yours, the month of May is awhirl with activities, from end-of-school concerts to a dizzying array of arts and cultural events. As you navigate your way through all this busy-ness, make sure each day to take time out to just live in the moment: revel in the beauty that is spring in Oklahoma, luxuriate in the warm sun and still cool breeze on your skin, and for goodness' sake, stop to (literally) smell the roses!

Happy May, everyone!

May 2024

PUBLISHER

Jimmy Darden | jimmy.darden@citylifestyle.com

405.541.5650

MANAGING EDITOR

Jerri Culpepper | jerri.culpepper@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Tiarra “Tea” Harper

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS

Melissa "Mel" Drake, Shea Alan Photography

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Brooke Barnett, Jerri Culpepper, Lindsey Davies

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Kaylin Hill/Kollab Creative Co., Nadia Silva, Shevaun Williams & Associates

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier

LIFESTYLE LETTER
CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/OKC LIFESTYLE LETTER OKC City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the OKC 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 OKC City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed. Proverbs 3:5-6
Visit our Instagram
how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise. JERRI CULPEPPER, MANAGING EDITOR @CITYLIFESTYLE_OKC 6
Learn

A Hilltop View Overlooking

100 year old native oak trees sits the beautiful southern style home that custom home builder Roger Fite built. Roger, a long time custom home builder, designed this magnificent country home along side Brent Gibson residential designer.

Roger incorporated many unique custom details in this personal home of his that he built, drawing from architectural styles of southern homes that he is well known for.

His eye for detail and high quality construction are his trademark, as his home owners will attest to.

A full story article featuring more of this southern home will be coming soon in this summer issue.

Historical paint colors and mill work design are reflected in the kitchen Follow us on brentgibsondesign 415 W. 15TH ST, SUITE 1, EDMOND, OK 405-340-1980 Visit brentgibson.com to tour more beautiful homes
A gentle curved roof, along with six columns and a facade of native stone adorn the front. The stone fireplace with timber mantle is the focal point of the living room.
Advertisement

PLENTY Mercantile & Venue

inside the issue MAY 2024 | LADIES Departments Success, to real estate maven Tara Levinson, isn’t just about achieving personal milestones; it’s about empowering others to become the best versions of themselves. See story, page 22. On the Cover 6 Lifestyle Letter 10 City Scene 14 Business Monthly 18 Local’s Choice ARTS + CULTURE 22 Inspired By LIFE + CULTURE 28 Local Limelight LIFE + CULTURE 32 Realty Report REAL ESTATE 34 Events
Where Sustainability Meets Hospitality Women of Influence Four Outstanding Women Profiled Meet Entrepreneur Donna Miller Among the Many ‘Hats’ She Wears: Purse Power Co-Founder/CEO Featured 18 22 28 28 22 18 8

city scene

1: The Greater Oklahoma City Asian Chamber of Commerce celebrated its first birthday Jan. 25 at Sailor & the Dock. 2: Approximately 250 chamber members, sponsors, community and business leaders attended the event. 3: John Lee, Sang Tran, Angelique Morton, Keith Horn 4: Theresa Le, Tasneem Al-Michael, Cassie Kalancha, Anthony Taylor 5: Jacqueline Sit, Alba Weaver, Spencer Browne 6: Kang and Mary Nhin, Tamar Mazor, Dewayne Thompson 7: OKC Mayor David Holt takes a selfie with guests. Photography by Nadia Silva
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN MAY 2024 CITY SCENE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 CONTINUED > 10
www.casady.org | (405) 749-3200 9500 North Pennsylvania Ave., Oklahoma City, OK 73120

city scene

1: Guests pass into the OKC Zoo’s new Expedition Africa exhibition. 2: Crowd at official ribbon cutting ceremony March 26 for the new OKC Zoo’s exhibit, Expedition Africa, presented by the Inasmuch Foundation. 3: The celebration included drumming performances by the Dallasbased Bandan Koro African Drum Ensemble. 4: Representatives from the City of Oklahoma City, Inasmuch Foundation, Oklahoma Zoological Society and the Zoo participate in the ribbon cutting. 5-7: Just a few of the animals to be found in the Expedition Africa exhibit

Want to be seen in the magazine? TAG YOUR INSTAGRAM PHOTOS WITH @CITYLIFESTYLE_OKC
CONTINUED 6 7 3 4 5 1 2 CITY SCENE 12
WE’RE READY FOR GOOD FOOD, GREAT COCKTAILS, & PATIO DAYS Whether it’s a party at home or the office, wedding reception on site or on location, no party is too big or too small. Let Bellini’s do the cooking for you. 6305 Waterford Blvd Suite 100, OKC (405) 848-1065 bellinisristorantegrill.com

The Ultimate Care for Your Ultimate Smile

Paseo Arts Festival Set for May 25-27

The Paseo Arts Association is gearing up for the 47th Annual Paseo Arts Festival, taking place May 25-27 in the historic Paseo Arts District. The event features over 90 artists from across the country. Other festivities include food from 20 food trucks; a designated children’s area, featuring activities such as spin art and bracelet making; and live entertainment from local performers at two music stages. Performances will include acoustic, jazz, folk and rock n’ roll.

MAY 2024 BUSINESS MONTHLY At Implant & Prosthodontic Associates, we are singularly dedicated to providing you the ultimate in personalized restorative care with the goal of achieving your ultimate smile. We invite you to learn more about our practice, our team of world-class doctors, and come see us for a consultation. IMPLANTASSOCIATES.NET | 405-755-7777 4517 MEMORIAL CIR, OKLAHOMA CITY, OK 73142
Dr. Lars Bouma
business monthly A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES 14

Prix de West®  Invitational Art Exhibition & Sale Set

Since 1973, Western artists and art collectors have gathered at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum for  Prix de West, the nation’s premier Western art exhibition and sale. The 52nd annual  Prix de West Invitational Art Exhibition & Sale will be open to the public from May 31 to Aug. 4, with the Art Sale Weekend set for June 7-8. The highly anticipated annual exhibition and sale is the museum’s largest annual fundraiser. nationalcowboymuseum.org/prixdewest

Scan to read more

Forbes Magazine named Credent Wealth Management a Top RIA Firm of 2023.

Our local team upholds the highest standards as we help hardworking Americans build financial plans that fit their way of life If you have questions about your next chapter, now is the time to reach out

Wealth Manager T R A C Y A N N M I L L E R C F P , C h F C ® D E N N I S W B L A C K Wealth Manager Book a complimentary meeting today ® (405) 470-0359 credentwealth com 5700 NW 130th Street, Oklahoma City, OK Investment adv ce offered through CX Institut onal a reg stered investment advisor
CONTINUED >
15 | CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/OKC MAY 2024

is

Call now for an appointment, no referral required!

Zoo Sets 'Breakfast With The Animals' in May

Call now for an no referral

Join the Oklahoma City Zoo every Saturday morning (9-11 a.m.) in May for Breakfast with the Animals! This once-a-week morning experience allows participants to enjoy a breakfast buffet in the newly renovated Pachyderm Building. Breakfast guests will also have the opportunity to see special enrichment and learn more about the African animals that call the OKC Zoo home! Tickets $55 for adults ($39 for zoo members), $45 for kids ($32 for ZOO Friends Kids).  OKCZoo.org/our-events/events/ breakfast-with-the-animals

Urogynecology is the field of medicine dedicated to the pelvic floor health of women. Urogynecologists specialize in disorders that affect urinary incontinence, prolapse, and the pelvic floor muscles. 11100 HEFNER POINTE DR, STE B, OKLAHOMA CITY, OK 73120 (405) 400-8188 | OKLAHOMAUROGYNECOLOGY.COM
Urogynecology? What
Want to be featured? GET IN TOUCH AT CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/OKC business monthly CONTINUED BUSINESS MONTHLY 16
IF YOU ARE READING THIS... SO IS YOUR BEST CLIENT. 2 OUT OF 3 of our readers regularly purchase from our ads. ADVERTISE WITH OKC CITY LIFESTYLE ™ CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/OKC half day camps half day camps CAMPS FOR KIDS ENTERING KINDERGARTEN THROUGH 7TH GRADE FOR MORE INFORMATION: WWW.SOONERTHEATRE.ORG THE STUDIO OF THE SOONER THEATRE 17 | CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/OKC MAY 2024

WHERE SUSTAINABILITY MEETS HOSPITALITY

PLENTY

Mercantile & Venue

LOCAL’S CHOICE | ARTS + CULTURE
18
Top: Brittney Matlock, PLENTY’s co-founder & CEO, and her mother, Traci Walton, who helped create and develop PLENTY | Bottom Left: PLENTY’s original location in OKC’s historic Automobile Alley is the largest store, with over 3,200 square feet of retail space. | Bottom Right: Fish, lobster and shrimp you can hang on the wall...PLENTY offers a wide selection of handcrafted products.
“We create spaces where you feel expected, considered and full.”

From its inception, PLENTY Mercantile & Venue has strived to create a space designed to promote sustainability and hospitality. Plenty’s three metro locations showcase thoughtfully made, mindfully sourced goods and gifts.

“Our goal from the beginning has been to create a safe and welcoming atmosphere for people of all stages of life to begin or continue migrating to more regenerative products," explains Brittney Matlock, PLENTY’s co-founder & CEO.

"We create spaces where you feel expected, considered and full."

Brittney explains that each of PLENTY’s locations is unique and designed to their specific environment, but they all achieve the common goal of being considerate to the planet and its people.

PLENTY’s original location in Automobile Alley (807 North Broadway Ave.)  is the largest store, with over 3,200 square feet of retail space. It is attached to The Venue at PLENTY, which includes 3,400 feet of rentable space, plus a rooftop deck. The space is designed to foster memorable gatherings, and it can include PLENTY-approved decor and props to help create an unforgettable event experience.

“We aim to stay attuned to extreme hospitality in the stores, so we naturally extend that warmth and care to celebrations and events in our space,” she explains.

The brand’s second location opened in October 2022 inside the First National Center (120 N Robinson). This location, which serves as the gift shop for The National Signature Hotel, provides an option for gifting and fun snacks in Oklahoma City’s central business district.

“The flagship store is where it all began and where we have the largest selection,” she explains. “The design of the second store matches the magic of the historic wonder that is First National Center.”

The most recent location is in Will Rogers World Airport, and offers travel essentials with locally made products and tried-and-true PLENTY staples. Brittney says that the new location brings an exciting new aspect to their business.

“We are honored to be a conduit connecting people from around the country to Oklahoma-made and responsibly made products that they otherwise may not have discovered.

"It’s humbling to be one of the first things people see when they arrive in our great city and one of the last things they see before they depart,” she adds. “We are looking to expand this concept into other airports.”

At each location, PLENTY selects products that are beautiful, functional and of the highest quality. Every product featured in their stores must have one or more of their guiding purchasing principles, which allow them to evaluate the full life cycle of a product prior to selection.

They specifically look for products that are handcrafted, manufactured with renewable energy, are made with rescued or recycled materials, are locally grown and come in reusable, biodegradable or compostable packaging.

In addition, they seek out products that offer philanthropic support back to the community, support marginalized groups and help foster a greater appreciation of culture. The goal is to provide products that appeal to different generations, cater to a wide range of interests and spending ranges, and show that shopping consciously can be accessible, approachable and enjoyable.

“We have the opportunity to show how makers and designers have accepted the challenge of creating with impact in mind, without sacrificing those core criteria of beauty, function and quality,” Brittney says.

“Right now, we are loving all of the mosaic glass votives we have in various shapes, sizes, colors and prices. They are getting us excited for summer meals outside on the patio and parties on The Rooftop of The Venue at PLENTY. As a bonus, they are all recycled glass!”

The concept behind PLENTY was created and developed by Brittney and her mother, Traci Walton. Being from two different generations allows them to see how the landscape of women-led business has evolved over time.

The pair values being part of the community that directly benefits from their commerce and enjoys

“ CONTINUED > 19 | CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/OKC MAY 2024

being connected to the people who live and work around them. They hope that they serve as proof that you can achieve any dream, with commitment and hard work.

“Oklahoma City often makes lists of one of the best cities in which to start a business, and we agree,” Traci says. “The challenges and benefits of being a locally owned business owner are combined and can’t be separated. It is a ‘figure it out’ situation that you live in every single day in an ever-changing industry and economy.”

Over the past 12 years, Brittney and Traci have grown as individuals, partners, business owners and multifaceted entrepreneurs. One of their future endeavors is to serve as consultants for other entrepreneurs, retailers, product designers and others hoping to make their own way in the retail industry.

“We have found ourselves with a new product–gritty experience,” Traci says. “Our hope is to help others figure out what we have learned faster, and with less tears.

We also hope to continue to extend the reach of our business-to-business wholesale product line by designing and manufacturing our own products.”

PLENTY offers many ways for interested customers to explore their unique selection of goods. In-store shopping allows for an immersive experience, and the store’s newly designed website allows for quick shipping and curbside pickup. The website’s Gift Assist feature allows PLENTY staff to curate a special gift with ease. The Gift Assist service is available for individual gifts, multiple selections, or large-scale corporate gifting.

“It’s a way to ‘shop local,’ but get it done quickly and cleverly,” Brittney concludes. “We are committed to accountability and continuous improvement. We hope you will let us help you make your next event or gift truly unforgettable.”

For more information, visit  PlentyMercantile.com . Find them on socials at @PlentyMercantile.

LOCAL’S CHOICE | ARTS + CULTURE
20
The Venue at PLENTY includes 3,400 feet of rentable space, plus a rooftop deck. (@chelsealittletonphotography_martin5)
We Offer Secure and Reliable Document and E-media Destruction HARD DRIVES | LAPTOPS | CELL PHONES etc. Are you protecting your business? Statewide Services • Secure Process (chain of custody) • Certificates of Destruction Provided GPS Tracking on Our Trucks • State Use Vendor • Employees Vetted and Randomly Drug Screened Eco-Friendly • Vocational and Employment Training for Adults with Developmental and Intellectual Challenges MENTION OKC LIFESTYLE AND GET 10% OFF OF DROP-OFF PRICE/FEE Offer expires 12/31/2024 1000 S. Kelly Avenue Edmond, Oklahoma 73003 | (405) 348-4470 | www.meadowsoklahoma.com CONTACT US! 405-643-6594 DoodyCalls.com/Oklahoma-City Let us make your yard a doody-free zone! © 2024 DoodyCalls Franchising SPE LLC. All rights reserved. Each location independently owned and operated. WE KEEP YOUR HOME AND WORKPLACE SPOTLESS (405) 514-7862 • BUSYVEE.COM V BUSY_VEES_CLEANING_SERVICES BUSY VEE’S CLEANING & ORGANIZING SERVICES IS A COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL CLEANING COMPANY THAT TRANSFORMS YOUR HOME OR OFFICE INTO CLEAN AND PEACEFUL ORDER WITH OUR TEAM’S EXPERT TOUCH. 21 | CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/OKC MAY 2024

WYou’ve likely at least heard of some of these amazing women—leaders in medicine, dentistry, business and real estate—who are not only respected by their colleagues, but whose influence in the community reaches far and wide.

O M EN OFINFLUENCE

PROFILED: FOUR WOMEN WHO EXCEL IN WHAT THEY DO, FOR THEIR PROFESSION AND FOR THE COMMUNITY

INSPIRED BY | LIFE + CULTURE
22

DR. ARIELLE ALLEN, D.O.

Career Highlights: After completing her residency and fellowship, both with the University of Oklahoma, Dr. Allen became the first private practice fellowship-trained board-certified urogynecologist in the state of Oklahoma.

She is the founder and sole owner of Urogynecology of Oklahoma (OklahomaUrogynecology.com), the only free-standing private practice urogynecology clinic solely devoted to women’s pelvic floor health in the state of Oklahoma. In this role, she has made it her mission to educate Oklahomans on the impact a healthy pelvic floor can have on a woman’s health.

Noting that the specialty of urogynecology is not well known as compared to other medical specialties, she strives to help women understand the urinary and gynecologic changes associated with pregnancy, delivery and aging, and she provides specialized treatment plans for female pelvic-related problems for each of her patients.

Community/Professional Involvement:

• Oklahoma County Medical Society executive board

• Lakeside Women’s Hospital executive board

Favorite Award: “Being the selected role model for my niece.  When she graduated high school, she was asked to give a speech about an individual whom she looks up to the most, and she selected me.  That meant the world to me, and I will never not become teary-eyed whenever I think about it.”

Favorite quote: “Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference.” – from Robert Frost’s “The Road Not Taken”

(Dr. Allen notes: “This poem speaks to me in that stepping outside of convention can provide unique and rewarding experiences.  But it is often very difficult and scary to take that/those step(s)!”)

CONTINUED > 23 | CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/OKC MAY 2024

KATELYNN HENRY

Career highlights: Six years ago, at a professional crossroads, Katelynn seized the opportunity to infuse new life into the Oklahoma City metro community with the launch of Henry Home Interiors (HenryInteriors. com). Drawing from her extensive experience and a familial connection to the furniture industry (her father ran a furniture store for nearly five decades), she embarked on a journey to redefine home decor with a fashion-forward flair.

After three years, they were bursting at the seams, so with her team, she embarked on a journey to expand their 6,000-square-foot showroom to 10,000 square feet, adding a design center and more space to showcase beautiful pieces of furniture that Katelynn views as more akin to works of art. She says celebrating five years this past November was a huge milestone as a small business and that she’s “on the edge of my seat to see what new heights we reach next!”

Community Involvement:

• Mary Abbott House

• Orchestra Leagues Symphony Show House

• Junior League of Norman

• Also enjoys mentoring aspiring designers at the University of Oklahoma.

Awards (top 3):

• The Journal Record’s Achievers

Under 40 for 2024

• 2021 ARTS Award Winner: Best Single Furniture Location

• Junior League of Norman’s 2022 Sustainer of the Year

Favorite Quote: “Have nothing in your houses that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful.” -  William Morris

INSPIRED BY | LIFE + CULTURE 24

TARA LEVINSON

Rain Maker and Team Leader, Levinson Real Estate

I’m not one to talk about myself. My about me, my bio is about how for the past two decades, I’ve immersed myself in the world of leadership and personal development, passionately guiding individuals towards unlocking their full potential. Yes, I’ve achieved success in real estate, ranking No. 1 in Oklahoma (Real Trends) for many years; my journey is really about the incredible transformations that have occurred in the people I have the opportunity to lead.  When we focus on nurturing talent, fostering growth and leading with purpose, lives can be changed.

Success, to me, isn’t just about achieving personal milestones; it’s about empowering others to become the best versions of themselves. Creating legacy for my family is my driving force. It’s my Big Why.

Throughout my career, I’ve witnessed the profound impact of mentorship and leadership on individuals’ lives. It’s about igniting that spark within others, helping them set audacious goals, and providing unwavering support on their journey to success.

I’m immensely grateful for the opportunities I’ve had to mentor and coach individuals, witnessing their incredible growth and transformation firsthand. Each interaction is a chance to make a lasting difference and contribute to a world filled with empowered leaders.

The recognition I’ve received for my leadership style and ability to develop talent is both humbling and inspiring. It reinforces my belief in the unlimited potential of human beings and the importance of creating a culture of continuous growth and learning.

I encourage everyone to step into their leadership roles with passion and purpose, embracing the opportunity to positively impact others’ lives. With dedication, empathy and a commitment to continuous improvement, we can all create a ripple effect of positive change in the world. If someone takes anything away from this, it’s that the power to transform lives begins with you.

CONTINUED > 25 | CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/OKC MAY 2024

DR. ROBERTA WRIGHT,

Co-owner, Implant and Prosthodontic Associates

Career Highlights: A Diplomate of the American Board of Prosthodontics and a Fellow of the American College of Prosthodontists, Dr. Wright ( ImplantAssociates.net) has been crafting exquisite, life-changing smiles for over 10 years.

In 2020, she moved to Oklahoma City, where she is the co-owner of Implant and Prosthodontic Associates, the premier provider of Prosthodontic specialty care in Oklahoma. At IPA, she combines the vision and artistry of an architect with the specialized perfection of a master craftsman to deliver ideal oral health and the beauty of an extraordinary smile.

In her commitment to lifelong learning, Dr. Wright loves teaching and has held part-time academic appointments in the Post-Graduate Implant Dentistry Program at Harvard University School of Dental Medicine, and currently at the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry in the Advanced Education in General Dentistry program.

Community Involvement:

As a former professional ballerina, Dr. Wright and her husband, Kyle (the other Dr. Wright), have always been extremely involved in the arts, and are loyal supporters of the arts in OKC, including;

• Oklahoma City Ballet

• OKC Philharmonic

• OU Weitzenhoffer Family College of Fine Arts.

Favorite quote: “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.”

- Aristotle

INSPIRED BY | LIFE + CULTURE 26
(405) 481-1696 | jsocroofingokc.com | VBhayden.w.ware Time is running out to file a claim from the April 2023 hail storms, offering a FREE SHINGLE UPGRADE TO FIRST 4 CLIENTS OF 2024. WE ALSO ACCEPT BITCOIN! MOST RELIABLE. VETERAN OWNED. LocalRoofingCompany inOklahomaCity. BEFORE JSOC AFTER JSOC Spring is Here, Time to Move. Call Us for a Free Consultation. 405.330.2171 DonHildebrandHomeDesigns.com 1701 W. 33RD ST., EDMOND, OK 73013 27 | CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/OKC MAY 2024

Meet Entrepreneur Donna Miller

AMONG THE MANY

“The

thing I love about entrepreneurship is that you are in control of your own destiny. It is scary and it is hard. The freedom of entrepreneurship does not come without a price, and you must still work very hard, but I have found it to be worth it.”

Donna Miller, MBA, SPHR-SCP

Donna speaks from a wealth of personal experience on both women as entrepreneurs and as leaders. She is co-founder and CEO of Purse Power Inc. ( PursePower. com), based in Edmond, where she works to help women nationwide use their trillions of dollars of collective economic power to create, support and improve opportunities for women and girls. She also is the chief growth officer for human capital management at Xyant Services ( Xyant.com), based in Norman.

Donna boasts over 30 years of hands-on experience as an entrepreneur and executive in Fortune 500 companies in the computer, telecom, cable and energy industries. Additionally, she is an award-winning talent management consultant and a formally trained executive coach who has spent the past 15 years as an entrepreneur doing executive

LOCAL LIMELIGHT LIFE + CULTURE
‘HATS’ SHE WEARS: PURSE POWER CO-FOUNDER/CEO
28

coaching, leadership development, strategic facilitation and team building.

“As a mother of triplets,” she said, “I entered the entrepreneurial world when I had three young children at home and a highly demanding VP job working 70-plus hours per week. I left corporate America, in part, because I was missing my children’s childhood and needed to have a more flexible way of supporting my family.”

The children—triplets Sean, Anastasiya and Seth Miller, now 24—came along 15 years into her marriage to childhood sweetheart Kurt. “I tell my children that I won the baby lottery. I could not feel more blessed.”

In April, Donna led the World Café session of Oklahoma City University’s Women in Leadership Conference, held at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. Open discussions focused on ways to improve women’s lives in the state.

Donna observed that, for example, “We were recently ranked 51st (including the District of Columbia) on the Wallet Hub’s rating of ‘Women’s Economic & Social WellBeing’ and ‘Women’s Health Care & Safety.’ I believe it is high time to change this and we, collectively, have the power to do it.”

SO, YOU WANT TO BE AN ENTREPRENEUR?

Donna enthusiastically shared with Lifestyle readers advice for would-be or fledgling women entrepreneurs:

• Embrace Resilience: The journey of entrepreneurship is filled with challenges and setbacks. Embrace resilience by viewing failures as stepping stones to success. Persist through adversity, and remain flexible, adapting your strategies, as necessary.

• Seek Out Mentorship and Networking: Build relationships with mentors who have walked the path before you. Their insights and guidance can be invaluable, helping you navigate obstacles and make informed decisions. Additionally, immerse yourself in networks of likeminded professionals. Networking can open doors to new opportunities, partnerships and resources.

• Highlight Your Unique Value Proposition: Understand and communicate what sets your business apart. Your unique perspective as a female entrepreneur can be a significant strength, offering fresh approaches and solutions to industry challenges.

• Prioritize Work-Life Balance: While the drive to succeed is important, no one ever looks back on their life while on their deathbed wishing that they spent more time at work. Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial for longterm success and well-being. Set boundaries, delegate tasks when possible, and make time for self-care.

• Leverage Technology and Social Media: Utilize technology and social media to reach a wider audience, market your products or services, and streamline your business operations. Being tech-savvy can significantly enhance your business’s efficiency and visibility.

DONNA MILLER

• Stay Informed and Continuously Learn: The business world is ever-evolving. Stay informed about your industry, market trends and emerging technologies. Embrace a mindset of continuous learning and be open to acquiring new skills that can benefit your business.

• Advocate for Yourself and Others: Don’t shy away from promoting your achievements and advocating for your needs, whether it’s in negotiation settings or in seeking fair opportunities. Furthermore, support other women in business by creating opportunities, offering mentorship, and fostering a community of mutual support.

• Believe in Your Vision: Confidence in your vision and capabilities is contagious. Believe in the value you bring and remain committed to your goals. This conviction will not only propel you forward but will also inspire confidence in your team, customers, and stakeholders.

• Resources: Accelerators and business incubators, SCORE (retired executives that will advise you for free), the SBA, NAWBO (National Association of Women Business Owners), Enterprising Woman Magazine and WPO, the Women President’s Organization are there to assist you.

CONTINUED > 29 | CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/OKC MAY 2024

PURSE POWER

The idea for Purse Power was born during a vacation to Miami taken by the Babcock sisters: Donna and Drs. Karen Nern and Phyllis “Freddi” Pennington.

“Our mother was a brilliant, beautiful nursing professor, author and activist who was also a survivor as an adolescent. All three of us have MBAs and two are medical doctors. Our mother raised us to be strong, independent women. Her battle cry was ‘To whom much is given, much is expected.’ We have all taken this to heart and want to make a difference in this world.”

As the sisters discussed what could be done to drive positive change, “we realized that the power was already in women’s hands,” Donna said. “If we could get women to use their enormous economic power to buy from companies that actively create opportunities for women and develop a funding stream for battered women’s shelters in the process, we could shatter glass ceilings and change lives.”

They took their concept for Purse Power to friends and colleagues, and on Jan. 21, 2017, Donna and several of her friends— armed with pins and buttons inscribed “Purse Power - We have it. Let’s use it”—joined in the historic Women’s March in Washington, D.C., as well as other marches across the country. In August of that year, Purse Power Inc. was formed.

“We gave away 30,000 pins in three hours, and they have since traveled all over the world,” Donna said. “One of them has even made it into the hands of the Smithsonian, and they are putting it in their African American exhibit!”

She explained the statistics behind the need for an organization like Purse Power:

“Despite women making between 73-85% of all purchasing decisions, holding trillions of dollars in spending power and influencing 67% of investment decisions, our representation in senior leadership roles remains disproportionately low. Although

it is getting better, we hold only 8.2% of CEO positions and around 32% of board seats.

The transition of wealth is also becoming increasingly relevant to the mission of this Edmond-based organization.

Morgan Stanley highlights that by 2030, women are expected to control a large share of the $30 trillion in financial assets currently owned by baby boomers, Donna noted, adding that women are not just the main recipients of this wealth transfer; they tend to outlive men by about five years, significantly expanding their impact on investment capital, voting rights and the governance of corporations.

With the financial sector adapting to this transition, Purse Power is committed to encouraging women to leverage their substantial economic influence to foster positive societal shifts by endorsing companies that actively support women, according to Donna.

This substantial transfer of wealth to women is seen as a pivotal moment for societal transformation, especially because of women’s leanings towards philanthropy, making ethical investments, and backing initiatives that aim for gender equality. With women controlling a major slice of the world’s wealth, their investment choices could help resolve deep-rooted social issues, encourage responsible business operations, and stimulate inclusive economic progress.

Donna’s mission in life is to make a difference for women.

Through Purse Power and her many other endeavors, including partnering with her co-founders to deliver the OKC Women in Leadership Conference each year, speaking to Fortune 500 Women’s Employee Resources Groups, acting as an advisor to the Oklahoma Commission on the Status of Women and playing her role as the Women Presidents’ Organization Virtual Midwest Chapter co-chair, Donna is fulfilling the life purpose voiced from a mother to her three daughters many years ago: “To whom much is given, much is expected.”

LOCAL LIMELIGHT LIFE + CULTURE
30
Women show off their posters in front of the Purse Power wall.

A child who continues to develop their math skills can feel confident that they’re on track for a successful school year. Mathnasium gives students the instruction they need to reinforce what they’re learning in school, work on concepts that may pose a challenge, and take their math knowledge to a new level. In other words, we got this.

is brought to you by Mathnasium
This moment
405-412-8758 www.mathnasium.com/northokc 14101 N May. Ave, #106 Oklahoma City, OK 73134 31 | CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/OKC MAY 2024

realty report

A SAMPLE OF RECENTLY SOLD PROPERTIES IN OKC.

NEIGHBORHOOD ORIGINAL PRICE SOLD PRICE %SOLD/ORIG DOM BDRMS BATHS Springer Township $4,500,000.00 $3,600,000.00 80% 100 4 4.2 Unpltd Pt Sec 26 14n 2w $2,860,000.00 $1,975,000.00 69% 126 6 6.1 Waterstone I $1,585,000.00 $1,590,000.00 100% 152 4 4.1 Gaillardia Residential Communi $1,460,000.00 $1,460,000.00 100% 0 4 4.1 Penshurst $1,379,000.00 $1,375,000.00 100% 6 4 4 Unpltd Pt Sec 05 12n 3w $1,495,000.00 $1,300,000.00 87% 25 4 4.1 2400 Grand Blvd $1,650,000.00 $1,300,000.00 79% 272 4 4.2 Oak Tree Add $1,599,000.00 $1,225,000.00 77% 132 3 3.3 Black Oak/Iron Horse Ranch $1,236,100.00 $1,220,000.00 99% 95 4 4.2 Nichols Hills Add $1,150,000.00 $1,200,000.00 104% 0 4 3.1 Unpltd Pt Sec 15 13n 2w $1,150,000.00 $1,165,000.00 101% 1 5 3.2 Grand Timber $1,150,000.00 $1,150,000.00 100% 36 4 3.1 Oak Tree $1,250,000.00 $1,145,000.00 92% 22 5 4.1 Preserve At Pine Creek $1,190,000.00 $1,135,000.00 95% 90 6 4.1 Sherwood Manor Add $1,155,000.00 $1,020,000.00 88% 86 2 2.2 Rose Creek Blks 12-13 $1,050,000.00 $1,010,000.00 96% 47 4 3.2 Montmartre I $999,900.00 $999,900.00 100% 258 4 4.1 Montmartre I $975,000.00 $975,000.00 100% 44 4 4.1 Oak Tree $995,000.00 $925,000.00 93% 6 3 3.2 Provence $925,000.00 $925,000.00 100% 4 4 4.1
Data Obtained From: Oklahoma City Metro Association of REALTORS®, Inc 2024 All rights reserved REALTY REPORT | REAL ESTATE 32
INFO@H-MD.COM 5101 W. MEMORIAL RD. h.mdmedspa vb CoolSculpting® and CoolSculpting® Elite are FDA-cleared for the treatment of visible fat bulges in the submental (under the chin) and submandibular (under the jawline) areas, thigh, abdomen, and flank, along with bra fat, back fat, underneath the buttocks (also known as banana roll), and upper arm. It is also FDA-cleared to affect the appearance of lax tissue with submental area treatments. CoolSculpting® and CoolSculpting® Elite are not treatments for weight loss. VIEW PATIENT BEFORE/AFTER PHOTOS PLUS Browse Our Full-Service Menu H-MD MEDICAL SPA JENNIE HUNNWELL MD A MAGISTRIS MD LOCATION CALL (405) 463-5700 OR VISIT H-MD.COM SCAN ME TAKE 50% OFF YOUR MIDSECTION MAKEOVER of 8+ treatments EXPERIENCE ELITE SCHEDULE YOUR CONSULT TODAY! BEFORE 4 WEEKS AFTER 1 ST SESSION 8 WEEKS AFTER 2 ND SESSION Results may vary. Photos courtesy of Bodify® and Steven Sorr, NMD.

events

MAY 4TH

Asian Festival

St. John's Episcopal Church, OKC | 10:00 AM

Enjoy numerous performances, art exhibitions, crafts and activities from 10 Asian associations – China, India, Indonesia, Iran, Japan, Korea, Laos, Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam. This year's festival will include a pageant competition, a full entertainment program and lots of delicious food.

MAY 10TH - 12TH

Oklahoma City Ballet presents: Shorts

Civic Center Music Hall, OKC

Carl Orff's "Carmina Burana" will open the concert with dancing performed to the iconic piece "O Fortuna," sung by Canterbury Voices. Afterward, enjoy the lighthearted work "Fancy Free," a collaboration between choreographer Jerome Robbins and composer Leonard Bernstein. The concert ends with the unique and playful dancing of Alexander Eckman's "Cacti," featuring music of Hayden, Beethoven and Schubert. OkcBallet.org/Performance/Shorts

MAY 18TH - 19TH

Miller in May Home & Garden Tour

Miller Neighborhood, OKC

During each stop on this self-guided tour, you’ll be able to experience a unique look at the personalized interior decor and inviting outdoor spaces within this beautifully established residential area. From grand domiciles to cozy bungalows, you’ll have a chance to see it all during this annual event. MillerNeighborhood.com/Events/MillerInMay2024

MAY 18TH

Oklahoma Craft Beer Festival

Oklahoma State Fair Park, OKC | 1:00 PM

Oklahoma's oldest and largest craft beer festival returns with over 60 breweries from Oklahoma and beyond. Grab your friends and get ready to sample your favorite brews and seltzers, plus discover new recipes. This event offers two different sessions to choose from. Join the fun at the VIP session (1-4 p.m.) or the general admission session (6-9 p.m.). OkCraftBeerFestival.com

MAY 25TH - 26TH

Chuck Wagon Festival

National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, OKC

The Chuck Wagon Festival is known for its mouthwatering food. Activities include stagecoach and covered wagon rides, weaving and rope making. Bring the kids for pony rides, bandana designing, paper fan decorating, coloring and leather crafting. NationalCowboyMuseum.org/Annual-Chuck-Wagon-Festival

MAY 25TH - 26TH

Paseo Arts Festival

Paseo Arts District, OKC

One of the largest arts festivals in the state, festival guests can view many different types of art, including photography, paintings, wood pieces, jewelry, ceramics and sculpture. See innovative works by regional and national artists at this exciting festival. Hear a variety of music while you browse art, as two stages will showcase local talent of all genres. ThePaseo.org/Festival

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS MAY 2024 EVENTS 34

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.