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Welcome to Our Men’s Issue!
In this issue, we spotlight several prominent men in the OKC metro, all with very different career tracks, but all of whom share at least one trait: they give 100% of their efforts to satisfying their clientele.
Take Randolph Design + Build founder Gary Randolph, for example. For over 50 years, he's been building more than just homes—he’s been crafting a lasting legacy, one client at a time. (OK, technically, sometimes it’s a couple or business rather than an individual.) Gary and the other members of the family-run business are dedicated to designing and building beautiful, functional homes that reflect the unique needs and desires of each homeowner. See story, p. 30.
Also consider Lars Bouma, D.D.S., one of the nation's top prosthodontists and partner at Implant & Prosthodontic Associates. “Every smile tells a story,” he says. “Our goal is to help patients feel proud of theirs.” See story, p. 26.
Our third example is Bellini’s Ristorante and Grill executive chef Servando Santillan, who during a recent interview said, "I’ll cook about any dish, as long as we have the ingredients, upon request. Anything that will make them feel special.” See story, p. 20.
Also read in this issue Mel and Lestari's OKC VIBES column on Vast, a fine-dining gem perched high on the 49th and 50th floors of the Devon Tower. and its general manager, Evan Askey, who is dedicated to delivering top-notch dishes for every dietary preference.
There's lots more fun and informative content inside, and so, dear readers (women as well as men), please set aside some time to learn about these special men.
JERRI CULPEPPER, MANAGING EDITOR @CITYLIFESTYLE_CLEVELANDCOUNTY
June 2025
PUBLISHER
Jimmy Darden | jimmy.darden@citylifestyle.com
405.541.5650
MANAGING EDITOR
Jerri Culpepper | jerri.culpepper@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS
Michelle Pipes, Harlea Robinson, Mel Drake
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Brooke Barnett, Jerri Culpepper, Staci Elder Hensley
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Jules Avery Photography, Elise Breeding/ Scissortail Photography, AJ Stegall, Sara Stewart, Sarah Strunk Photography
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
city scene
1-7: Oklahoma City Ballet supporters partied like rock stars at the annual Ballet Ball on April 5 at the OKC Convention Center. This year’s theme was Rock ‘n’ Roll Ball, inspired by a world premiere ballet in May featuring music by OKC’s The Flaming Lips. The ballet’s largest annual fundraising event, this year’s event broke all records on both attendance and dollars raised for year-long programs. 1: Ryan Jolicoeur-Nye, artistic director; Natalie Fitzpatrick, chair; Hannah Hudson, chair; Jo Lynne Jones, executive director 2: Marla and Mike Morgan, Kara Curtis, Mary Dahlgren, Rusty Caston, Charlie and Cheri Amis 3: Larry and Polly Nichols 4: Christian Keesee, Katie and Blake Keesee, and Larry Keigwin 5: Oklahoma City Ballet Board President Rich Johnson with his wife, Lauren 6: Joseph Smith, Presha’e James, Stacie & Mike Glover 7: Federico Ginetti, Annie Bohannon, Marco Corcella
Photography by Mel Drake and Todd Scott
1-3: The Paseo Arts Association received the Arts and Humanities Award and was awarded a $7,500 grant at the Oklahoma Center for Nonprofits’ 18th Annual Oklahoma Nonprofit Excellence (ONE) Awards April 5 at Southern Hills Country Club, Tulsa. The event honored 18 nonprofits for superior leadership and exceptional service to their constituents and communities. 1: Amanda Bleakley, Amber Sharples 2: Allison Terrill, Lindsay Laird, Amanda Bleakley, Jamie Moore, Kelli Hayward-Walsh 3: Amanda Bleakley, Seth Fairfield with the Choctaw Nation
1-7: Camels, ostriches, zebras and Clydesdales took to the track at Remington Park April 13 to raise funds for Oklahoma nonprofits during the highly anticipated Extreme Racing for Charity event. Some 25,000 people attended the event, at which $10,826 was raised for Remington Park Charities.
REMINGTON PARK/MACKENZIE KELLEY REMINGTON PARK/MACKENZIE KELLEY
DUSTIN ORONA PHOTOGRAPHY/REMINGTON PARK
DUSTIN ORONA PHOTOGRAPHY/ REMINGTON PARK
REMINGTON PARK/MACKENZIE KELLEY
REMINGTON PARK/MACKENZIE KELLEY
Sustainable Urban Landscape Conference Set
The second annual Sustainable Urban Landscape Conference returns on June 27 and 28 to the Oklahoma City Convention Center. This conference aims to inspire residents and professionals about how we can foster both beautiful and beneficial spaces, while adapting landscaping practices for a changing climate. With over 20 engaging sessions from which to choose, you’ll gain valuable skills and be empowered to create more sustainable spaces. View more details on the OKC Beautiful website: OKCBeautiful.com
Kayak & Coffee at Lake Overholser
Join paddlers for this leisurely Saturday morning paddle at Lake Overholser, then kick back at the Trailhead Cafe for coffee, conversation – and breakfast if all that paddling whipped up your appetite. Includes kayak rental and a guide who leads the group. Offered seasonally with summer offerings June 7, July 5, Aug. 2 and Aug. 23. For more information, visit the River Sport OKC website.
Jay Leno, Arsenio Hall to Perform at Riverwind
Acclaimed TV late night show host, admired stand-up comedian, best-selling children’s book author, much-in-demand corporate speaker, TV and movie voice-over artist, pioneering car builder and mechanic, and philanthropist… Jay Leno, widely characterized as “the hardest working man in show business,” will appear Friday, June 6, with special guest Arsenio Hall at Riverwind Casino in Norman. Tickets: bit.ly/4iuazao
MONTECRISTO IRONWORKS
Make a Statement with Handcrafted Steel Doors
ARTICLE BY JERRI
CULPEPPER
| PHOTOGRAPHY BY TIGER CHILCOAT
Your home’s entrance deserves more than an ordinary door. Monte Cristo Ironworks creates stunning steel pivot doors that blend artisanal craftsmanship with modern design— turning entries into showpieces.
WHY CHOOSE A PIVOT DOOR?
“Pivot doors make a dramatic first impression with their balanced, smooth operation. Their versatile design works for grand entries, modern offices or seamless indoor-outdoor transitions,” says Tiger Chilcoat with Monte Cristo Ironworks.
Customize with single or double configurations, sidelights and finishes to match your home’s style.
BUILT TO LAST, DESIGNED TO IMPRESS
“Each door is handcrafted from premium steel using time-honored techniques reinforced by precision engineering,” Tiger says, adding that the result is a durable, high-performance door that stands the test of time while elevating your home’s aesthetic.
Monte Cristo Ironworks is located at 5609 NW 4th St., Oklahoma City, OK 73127. For more information, call 405.787.0111 or visit MontecristoIronworks.com
Your dream entrance starts here.
BELLINI’S EXECUTIVE CHEF
Servando Santillan Goes the Extra Mile to Ensure Customers Are 100% Satisfied
ARTICLE BY JERRI CULPEPPER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY HARLEA ROBINSON
In 1990, Bellini’s Ristorante and Grill opened at 63rd and Penn. From those beginnings, this iconic restaurant overlooking Waterford Pond has consistently received praise for its fresh, delicious and authentic Italian dishes, traditional American favorites and contemporary cuisine, as well as for
“I’ll cook about any dish, as long as we have the ingredients, upon request.”
its impressive selection of wines to complement every meal and a fun assortment of cocktails.
Excellent service and a friendly wait staff also are hallmarks of this fine dining establishment.
If you’ve ever wondered how Bellini’s manages to maintain its reputation as the “go-to” place for casual dining, celebrations, business meetings and other special occasions, one look no farther than Bellini’s executive chef, Servando Santillan.
The native of Mexico has worked in the restaurant business since his teens. He joined the Bellini’s team some 25 years ago, and has worked there on and off since (with stints at Boomerang Grill, Garcia’s Mexican Restaurant at Quail Springs Mall and Bellini’s in Edmond).
In 2014, he was named executive chef at Bellini’s. In this capacity, Servando plays an integral role in the restaurant’s operations, helping ensure that both
back-end (kitchen) and front-end operations keep moving smoothly and efficiently.
In the kitchen, Servando oversees some 17 cooks and other kitchen workers, from those charged with prep work to the dishwashers. This work involves everything from ensuring the kitchen has what it needs to prepare dishes to drawing up work schedules. He also fills in as cook when needed or when time allows. (“Cooking—that’s my passion,” he shares.)
Servando also works on the public side as needed, taking orders, waiting tables and, most importantly, visiting with their customers to make sure they are 100% happy with their orders and the service.
Occasionally, this means fulfilling a customer’s request for a dish not on the menu.
“It’s a stressful job if you don’t have a passion for it. But I love to cook, I love working to make sure all our customers feel special.”
I’ll cook about any dish, as long as we have the ingredients, upon request,” he says. “Anything that will make them feel special.”
If you’ve ever worked in the food industry, you know there’s always a lot of cards in the air at any given time: a dishwasher or waiter fails to show up, a large group of customers appears during their busiest hours without reservations, a necessary ingredient for popular entrees isn’t available due to supply chain issues … Without a passion for his work and his extensive experience in most aspects of the restaurant business, Servando said the work could easily become too much.
“It’s a stressful job if you don’t have a passion for it. But I love to cook, I love working to make sure all our customers feel special.
“Everything I’ve learned about the business I learned at Bellini’s,” he added, noting that he considers Bellini’s family. In particular, he thinks of Bellini’s founder and owner, Tommy Byrd, like a second father.
Pausing to reflect, he concludes: “The restaurant owns you, not the other way around. I love ensuring the quality of food and service remains high, I love our customers. We’ve kept them coming for 30 years; I hope to help keep them coming for another 30.”
OKC Vibes
DINING ELEVATED – LITERALLY
When it comes to giving the men in our lives their due, June felt like the perfect excuse to celebrate everything bold, classic and downright indulgent. Enter Vast, a fine-dining gem perched high on the 49th and 50th floors of the Devon Tower.
Yes, you read that right—we’re talking dinner with a view that’ll have you swooning before the first course even hits the table. This month, Lestari and I traded our usual girly banter for something a little more polished. Think elegant cocktails, prime cuts of steak and the kind of service that makes you feel like royalty.
Oh, and the men’s stamp of approval? That came when I first dined here after moving to OKC. My best friend drove in from Dallas to celebrate his birthday and insisted we go to Vast because everyone in his foodie circle raved about it. From that first bite of steak, I knew the hype was earned.
And Lestari? Vast is her happy place. You guys, she eats here so often they could probably name a shrimp-topped steak in her honor. She even introduced me to the charming general manager, Evan Askey, who couldn’t be nicer. Fun fact? He’s vegan, which only highlights how accommodating Vast is when it comes to delivering top-notch dishes for every dietary preference.
Now, settle in while we spill all the must-try menu highlights.
SIP & SAVOR
If you’re wondering what to order, here’s what Lestari and I indulged in (and what you absolutely shouldn’t miss):
333 W Sheridan Ave., 49th Floor Oklahoma City, OK 73102 | vastokc.com
COCKTAILS
Barrel Aged Old Fashioned—Basil Hayden Bourbon, Angostura Bitters, Demerara Syrup, Amarena Cherry, Vault Ice. Bold, classic and so smooth.
Mai Tai-Garita—Patron tequila, orgeat, ginger liqueur, pineapple and lime. A tropical-meets-tequila dream.
Rosé—Bieler Père et Fils, Sabine, Provence. Because nothing screams “chill” like a crisp glass of rosé.
FYI, Vast has fantastic zero-proof cocktails if you’re skipping alcohol but still want the vibe!
MAINS
Mel’s Pick—24oz Bone-In Rib Eye, cooked medium, topped with Lump Crab Oscar (aka an indulgent pile of jumbo lump crab in creamy Béarnaise heaven).
Lestari’s Pick—24oz Bone-In Rib Eye, cooked medium, with red wine sauce and a generous helping of Jumbo Gulf Shrimp. Yes, it’s as fabulous as it sounds.
SIDES
Vast Potato —Perfectly seasoned and baked to buttery perfection.
Seasonal Vegetables—Featuring asparagus and spaghetti squash, these sides were simple yet divine.
DESSERTS
Mel’s Fav—Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée topped with seasonal berries. Crackly on top, silky underneath.
Absolute dessert bliss.
Strawberry Shortcake —Strawberry mousse, Italian buttercream, glazed strawberries and white chocolate. Usually, shortcake isn’t my thing, but Vast changed my mind.
UNTIL NEXT MONTH!
OKC fam, consider this your official nudge to experience Vast for yourself. Whether you’re in the mood to sip an Old Fashioned at sunset or indulge in a shrimptopped steak under sparkling city lights, Vast has you covered. It’s more than a meal; it’s a moment. Gather your favorite people, raise a glass (or two) and soak in the magic of this iconic OKC treasure.
Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram at @ThisIsMelDrake and @le.star for more insider vibes.
Cheers and love always, Mel & Lestari
Vast general manager Evan Askey
ARTICLE BY STACI ELDER HENSLEY
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ELISE BREEDING/ SCISSORTAIL PHOTOGRAPHY
MEET IPA’S DR. LARS BOUMA
HE’S NOT JUST RESTORING FUNCTION— THIS SPECIALIST RESTORES LIVES
Prosthodontists may not be as widely recognized as other medical specialists, but their work is life-changing. These dental experts tackle the most complex cases—everything from dental trauma and major reconstructive surgeries to replacing missing teeth with crowns, dentures, implants and fixed bridges.
Their work not only restores oral function but dramatically enhances patients’ quality of life.
Oklahoma City is fortunate to be home to one of the nation’s top prosthodontists: Lars Bouma, D.D.S., a board-certified prosthodontist and partner at Implant & Prosthodontic Associates (IPA). As one of fewer than 500 board-certified prosthodontists in the United States,
The Implant & Prosthodontic Associates team
Lars Bouma, D.D.S.
“We’re also the only dental specialists trained specifically in cosmetic and aesthetic dentistry, implant placement and restoration and full mouth reconstruction. We do dentistry mild to wild!”
Dr. Bouma brings a rare blend of technical precision, artistic skill and compassionate care to his work.
“We treat everyone—from young patients born without teeth or with congenital dental issues, to older adults who have worn dentures for decades, to cancer survivors,” Dr. Bouma explains. “We’re also the only dental specialists trained specifically in cosmetic and aesthetic dentistry, implant placement and restoration and full mouth reconstruction. We do dentistry mild to wild!”
Originally from Texas, Dr. Bouma moved frequently throughout his youth. A love of science emerged during high school, and with encouragement from his parents, he pursued a career in dentistry. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the Baylor College of Dentistry, then completed an elite residency at the John L. McClellan Veterans Administration, followed by advanced prosthodontic training in the United States Air Force.
“I’m naturally a problem-solver and inventor,” he said. “I discovered in dental school that I had a knack for lab work and that the physical aspects of dentistry came easily to me. Combine that with my MacGyver-like instincts, and prosthodontics became the perfect specialty for me.”
Dr. Bouma goes over an X-ray with a patient.
At IPA, patients receive the benefit of both tried-andtrue techniques and the latest digital technologies. While many dental offices can feel sterile or rushed, IPA strives to create an environment that is warm, personalized and welcoming.
Among the many memorable cases in his career, one stands out: a woman who had lost 90% of the roof of her mouth due to oral cancer.
“You could see from her mouth into her nose and both maxillary sinuses,” he recalls. “She couldn’t speak clearly, eat, or function normally. Through a combination of implants, a custom implant bar, and other prosthetic solutions, we were able to restore her smile, her speech, her dignity and her ability to live a normal life.”
Dr. Bouma was recruited to join IPA in 2006 by founder Dr. Thomas McGarry and partner Dr. Susan Brackett, both leaders in the American College of Prosthodontists. The practice holds the unique distinction of being the only one in the country where all three partners have served in key leadership roles within the ACP and the Oklahoma Dental Association—including stints as president of each.
That emphasis on professional development and clinical excellence drew Dr. Bouma to the practice. He continues to teach and mentor dentists from all over the country, has taught at the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry, published peer-reviewed articles, and speaks nationally and internationally on digital innovations in prosthodontics. In 2024, he received the ACP President’s Award in recognition of his contributions to the profession.
Outside the clinic, Dr. Bouma enjoys hands-on hobbies like working on his acreage, welding, metalwork and building furniture. He’s also looking forward to restoring his classic 1970s Ford Bronco. He and his wife of 31 years, Vicki, have two children—Harrison and Carleigh—both currently pursuing careers in health care.
For Dr. Bouma, the most rewarding part of his work is helping patients regain confidence and function.
“Every smile tells a story,” he said. “Our goal is to help patients feel proud of theirs.”
To learn more or schedule a consultation, visit ImplantAssociates.net or call 405.755.7777. IPA is located at 4517 Memorial Circle, Oklahoma City.
Dr. Bouma with son Harrison; wife, Victoria; and daughter Carleigh. (Jules Avery Photography)
Dr. Bouma with a patient
design + RANDOLPH BUILD
In a digital age, Gary remains devoted to the craft— hand-drawing every plan with precision, care and a deep respect for tradition. (Photo by
AJ Stegall)
50 Years of Creativity, Collaboration & Craftsmanship
ARTICLE BY BROOKE BARNETT
For over 50 years, Gary Randolph has been building more than just homes—he’s been crafting a lasting legacy.
Starting his journey as a framing and trim carpenter, Gary’s career in homebuilding is grounded in hands-on work and attention to detail, a commitment that has remained constant throughout his remarkable professional journey.
As Randolph Design + Build hits their half century mark, he reflects back on what working and creating with his
At Gary's side, his wife, Trish, brings each vision to life through design, blending form and function with an artist’s eye. (Photo by AJ Stegall)
family has meant to him and what has contributed to their ongoing success.
“I started building in 1975,” Gary reflects. “I was a hands-on builder, and that has made a major difference in my career. It’s easier to work with subcontractors and manage people when they know that you have been there and you understand what they are doing. They know I have spent the time and been through every aspect of the building process.”
Randolph Design + Build specializes in custom home construction and renovations, blending creativity with expert craftsmanship to deliver a seamless, full-service experience that brings each client’s vision to life.
Gary serves as master builder, draftsman and designer. His wife, Trish, is the company’s creative director, curating the colors, materials and design elements that shape the ambiance and beauty of each project. Their daughter Ashley has spent the past 12 years as the company’s master builder apprentice, managing all aspects of residential construction, from scheduling to resource allocation. Ashley’s husband, Brent, owns his own handyman business and frequently collaborates with the family on construction projects, bringing his diverse set of skills to each build.
“It is so nice working with people that you love and spending time creating together,” Trish says. “As a team, we all sit down and talk through the design process like we were going to live there ourselves. We really focus on the details that go into creating each home.”
The Randolphs are dedicated to designing and building beautiful, functional homes that reflect the unique needs and desires of each homeowner. From initial concept to completion, they work closely with clients to create a truly personal experience.
“We are there with our clients every step of the way. We know it can be overwhelming, so we try to make the process as easy as possible. We aren’t just building a home, we are creating a lifestyle. We want to design a home that matches our client’s lives,” Trish continues.
For Ashley, adding value and comfort to their clients’ lives is what transforms their work from simply a business into something more meaningful.
Top: Aerial view of North Shore’s proximity to Scissortail Park and Downtown OKC. (Photo by Sara Stewart)
Middle: Hand-drawn by Gary, every house reflects a unique character and is crafted to complement the surrounding new standard for quality. (Photo by Sara Stewart)
Bottom: A new generation, Ashley & Brent help carry the design/build company’s legacy forward. (Photo by AJ Stegall)
“Our family was created to create,” she says. “Being a design build firm means we are all encompassing. It’s a collaborative effort, and our clients become part of our family as we create together. We are working to make something that our clients can raise their families in or grow old in. This is so much more than just a business for us.”
Looking to the future, the Randolph family is embracing green building practices and focusing on reducing waste to minimize the environmental impact of their builds. They are also working to revitalize the historic North Shore addition near downtown Oklahoma City and Scissortail Park, breathing new life into a historic part of the community.
“For most of our career, we have built in Edmond, but we recently moved our entire company close to Scissortail Park. We are the first builders in this area, so we are acting as pioneers in an area that could have been forgotten,” Gary says.
“We are so committed to renovating this area that Ashley and Brent live there, and Trish and I just moved in next door. We are working to help make North Shore into a busy, vibrant and important part of the city.”
The North Shore addition will include 120 home sites situated near the Oklahoma River, offering convenient access to hiking trails, kayaking, and year-round activities and events. As the Randolphs help shape the vision for this
exciting new community, they look forward to the next chapter of the company’s story. But through it all, their unwavering commitment to creativity, craftsmanship and collaboration will remain at the heart of their work.
“It all comes back to what my dad has been doing for 50 years,” Ashley concludes.
“There are not many others who could do what he does. He continues to inspire us every day. His dedication to excellence truly helps set us apart, and helps us transform our clients’ lives.”
Find more about Randolph Design + Build at randolphdb. com . Follow them at @randolphdesignbuild.
Interior shot of one of the homes available for purchase in the new North Shore community. (Sarah Strunk Photography)
JUNE 5TH - 15TH
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
Oklahoma Shakespeare presents: "The Merry Wives of Windsor"
Paseo Indoor Theatre, OKC | 8:00 PM
Known as Shakespeare’s sitcom, this play tells of the philandering Sir John Falstaff and his misadventures in a small town in England. All eight performances across two weeks will be outdoors in the Shakespeare Gardens in the Paseo. Secure your tickets for this hilarious classic, performed by the talented troupe of actors from Oklahoma Shakespeare in the Park. OkShakes.org/Merry-Wives-Of-Windsor
JUNE 6TH
OKC Zoo Gala: Waddle & Whirl
Oklahoma City Zoo & Botanical Garden | 5:00 PM
This annual event honors individuals who have amplified the zoo’s mission through their generosity. This year’s theme, Waddle & Whirl, raises support for the zoo’s newest habitat, Shore to Sea, home to several adorable penguins. OzsGiving.org/ZooGala
JUNE 7TH
Wines of the West
The Marketplace, OKC | 11:00 AM
Wines of the West is the first sign of summer in Historic Stockyards City. Sample some of Oklahoma's finest wines as you enjoy live entertainment and browse the Made in Oklahoma Market, which offers locally made goods. Be sure to check out Stockyard City's unique boutiques staffed by some of the most knowledgeable western merchants around. StockyardsCity.org/Calendar
