Parker, CO March 2024

This is Our Home Issue

Author Wendy Wunder said, “The magic thing about home is that it feels good to leave, and it feels even better to come back.” As we thought about home - we wanted to highlight what makes it special to our readers. That of course includes the novelties and memorable decor, the aesthetic and design, but most importantly - the people.

For me, home is a place of refuge. It's my cove of peace and inspiration. Sometimes I work from home, other days I'm rushing in from a long day to make dinner. Either way I want it to be cozy and always welcoming. I'm thankful for my husband and two pups who keep our home warm and a little wild as well.

As we highlight various small business owners in this issue, one commonality we find is their care for our homes. Each individual has a passion that impacts our town in a beautiful way. Their attention to detail, hearts of excellence and finesse for fun are an inspiration to look upon.

We feel like the fortunate ones as we got to learn more about the businesses and individuals that comprise this town and hope the small lens into their lives and work brings people in this community together.

As you turn through the pages of this issue, we hope you’ll feel encouraged and connected to the people around you - in your town, neighborhood and most of all - your home.

Every month, we hear from readers who keep this magazine for longer than just the month labeled on the cover. They say they hold onto it for months as coffee table art or an accessory in their home. We feel proud to create a resource that is valued in our community and strive every month to deliver the value you expect. Thanks for letting us be a part of your home.

Happy March!

CASSANDRA GREEN, PUBLICATION DIRECTOR @PARKERCITYLIFESTYLE

March 2024

PUBLISHER

Joan Dameron | joan.dameron@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER

Jeni Fleck | jeni.fleck@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Cassandra Green cassandra.green@citylifestyle.com

COPY EDITOR

Julie Ann Tripp | julie.tripp@citylifestyle.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Abby Watkins | abby@abbywatkinsphotography.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Julie Ann Tripp | julie.tripp@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Lisa Bakewell, Cassandra Green, Julie Ann Tripp, Elizabeth Watson

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Abby Watkins, Alex Guardia, Carolyn Nugent, Steven Byers Photography, Josh Drovdal with Revl Media

Corporate

CHIEF

Steven Schowengerdt

OFFICER Matthew Perry EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

“I love the reality of everyday life, and the beauty of the in-between moments.”

business monthly

A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES

Douglas County Libraries Soars Past 1 Million Digital Checkouts

Douglas County Libraries customers reached a major milestone in 2023: 1.4 million e-books and audiobooks were borrowed during the year. “We love that we are meeting users where they are, and that we’re providing formats that work for our customers both inside and outside the library,” says DCL Collection Development Librarian Angie Brown.

Scan to read more

Tea Street is Adding a Second Location in Parker

With an anticipated grand opening in spring/summer of 2024. Guests at Tea Street Parker will be able to enjoy the same offerings as the flagship location, such as classically inspired drinks with a modern twist and premium loose-leaf tea sourced directly from Taiwan. However, Tea Street Parker uniquely showcases a dumpling showroom where guests can watch a dumpling machine output approximately 1,000 dumplings per hour behind glass. The dumplings can be served steamed or pan-fried.

Poulette Bakeshop in the James Beard Award Semifinalists

Drumroll please: the James Beard Awards semifinalists for 2024 are here. It's officially James Beard Awards season. Congratulations are in order for Carolyn Nugent and Alen Ramos of Poulette Bakeshop, Parker, CO. Recognized for their outstanding art as a pastry chef and baker, Poulette Bakeshop demonstrates exceptional skills as well as a candidate that contributes to their community.

Photography by Alex Guardia

Photography by Carolyn Nugent

Blush Boot Camp Opens in Parker

Meghan Case is opening BLUSH Boot Camp this month. BLUSH is extending its 20% off for Life Special through March! Discover unlimited 50-minute Boot Camp sessions designed for all fitness levels, Complimentary Kid’s Club, Nutritional Guidance, 30-day money-back guarantee and a community of women just like you! 18860 Clarke Road, Unit 106 Parker, CO 80134

UrgentVet Opened in November 2023 and Treats Cats & Dogs

UrgentVet is open weekdays 3 to 11 p.m. and weekends 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. for minor injury or illness in cats and dogs. Pet parents can save their spot online or just walk-in. The facility has Fear Free features throughout to help keep pets relaxed and calm. Common ailments treated include: vomiting, diarrhea, cuts, limping, ear & eye problems and more. Learn more at  www.urgentvet.com or call (720) 835-1500. urgentvet.com/location/parker-co/

SOUTH DENVER COMMUNITY EGG HUNT

MARCH 30 AT 10A & 12P

GRILLED FOOD / SWEET TREATS / EASTER FESTIVITIES

FREE EVENT / REGISTRATION REQUIRED

EASTER AT THRIVE WORSHIP EXPERIENCES

MARCH 30 & 31 (CHECK WEBSITE FOR TIMES)

A SPECIAL EASTER MESSAGE / ENGAGING WORSHIP

EGG HUNTS AFTER EACH EXPERIENCE

Thrive Church, 9830 Lone Tree Pkwy, Lone Tree,

the CITY LIST

We have such amazing, innovative business leaders in our community who are proud to serve you, our residents, with class and quality. We’ve compiled some of our top company picks for the services that might be on your mind this month in an effort to make your lives a little easier.

Real Estate Agent

Steven Beam - Parker Colorado Realtor RE/MAX realestateyak.com | 303.941.4663

Liesja Antieri | She Sells Colorado - LIV Sotheby's International Realty www.shesellscolorado.com | 303.917.6724

Tasha Beckman - Mama Bear Team @ Exit Realty DTC mamabearteam.com | 303.419.7082

Krista Spohn, Coldwell Banker Realty 44 www.spohnsquared.com | 720.723.0581

The Northrop Group, Jessica Northrop jessicanorthrop.com | 303.525.0200

Landscaper

Four Elements Landscape & Outdoor Living fourelementslandscape.com | 303.519.8710

Elite Landscape & Outdoor Living www.denverelitelandscaping.com | 303.795.1717

MG Landscaping Inc 303.507.3906

Want to suggest a monthly pick?

Hughes Landscaping hugheslandscaping.com | 303.841.7338

Dragonfly Landscape Design www.dragonflyld.com | 720.854.8755

Painter

Spray-Net spray-net.com/en-us/locations/douglascounty | 720.802.9707

Prominent Painters LLC prominentpaintersco.com | 720.465.7733

Contemporary Painting denver-painting.com | 720.333.9003

Roman Innovative Painting paintingcontractorelizabeth.com | 720.369.8896

Majestic Painting Company, Inc. majesticpainting.net | 720.819.7073

Interior Designer

MC Design Interiors www.mcdesigninteriors.com | 925.580.7902

Interior Delights www.interiordelights.net | 866.434.8911

CJ Designs www.cjdesignsdenver.com | 303.919.8548

Aragon Interior Designs www.aragoninteriordesigns.com | 303.880.1636

Doane Designs www.doanedesigns.net | 303.521.7271

HVAC

Highlands Ranch Mechanical HVAC www.highlandsranchmechanical.com | 720.209.0132

5280 Heating & Air Conditioning www.5280heatingandair.com | 303.547.6003

Parker Heating and Air www.parkerheat.com | 303.222.2055

Moore Heating & Air Conditioning Inc www.mooreheatingac.com | 720.689.1026

Justin's HVAC Services LLC 720.885.6790

EFFORTLESS

Accents

A QUEEN OF CROWN MOLDINGS AND CARPENTRY

ARTICLE BY CASSANDRA GREEN PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Erica Keene, owner of Harmony Home Renovations is a boss lady in an industry where men tend to take the lead. Her niche? Finishing carpentry, wallpaper and painting. “I’m more focused on those carpentry details, crown molding, baseboards, wainscoting, all the things that give a home personality,” she says. She sees blank walls as a canvas to make a statement. Whether subtle or bold Erica knows how to add accent, depth and character to the walls in your home in a seamless and effortless way.

Erica carries a confidence that can only come from hard work. She started out doing a lot of landscaping and handyman work. She found that women at home with their kids felt more secure asking her for help rather than bringing in a random contractor.

“I have always loved building and designing.” She goes on, “I love building because I see things in my head and I can’t find them anywhere. So, I’m like, fine, I’ll just build it.” Her kinetic instinct to build it herself is what makes her such a skilled contractor. When it comes to wallpaper, she prefers traditional.

“I love that wallpaper is coming back… traditional wallpaper where you gotta get some glue and get a roller, and it better be perfect the first time you put it on. Otherwise, you’re gonna be in trouble.” Renovating homes is a form of artwork in Erica’s perspective. She gets to know her clients so she can bring their home to life in a way that expresses who they are.

“Erica has been my lifesaver. She has helped me with handy lady needs, as well as finishing carpentry, such as my gorgeous shiplap wall. She truly can do anything and is incredibly talented!” Her customer raves.

Whether you’re more of a tidal wave blue, mysterious iron oar black, or vibrant bright green, Erica takes time to create accent walls that make a statement and add subtle dimension to even make a room feel bigger. To inquire about your own projects, reach Erica by phone (845) 837-9121 or email harmonyhomerenovation@gmail.com.

"Erica has been my lifesaver. ... She truly can do anything and is incredibly talented!"

BLOOM WEDDING SHOWCASE

Bonnie Blues Event Venue

April 14th, 2024 1-4pm

Join us for our 4th annual BLOOM Wedding Showcase at Bonnie Blues Event Venue! Enjoy light bites, elevated cocktails and discover some of Colorado's top wedding vendors. register please visit our website.

Bonnie Blues Event Venue

720.688.0320

bonniebluesvenue.com

Looking for Unique

SOMETIMES IT’S THE SMALL TOUCHES THAT MAKE THE BIGGEST DIFFERENCE

The sign outside the building gives shoppers a glimpse of what to expect. It reads “Novelties, Gifts and Home Goods.” The full picture doesn’t emerge until you’ve spent a little time browsing the shelves and tables of curated merchandise at Nest on Mainstreet.

Owner, Shannon Carter says, “Nest on Mainstreet is more than just a cute little store in downtown Parker - it is a warm and inviting place to find something special you can’t find anywhere else.”

Carter puts in considerable effort to ensure her clients enjoy a variety of options for gifts and home goods. Rotating merchandise and seasonal themes add to a unique shopping experience.

ARTICLE BY ELIZABETH WATSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEVEN BYERS PHOTOGRAPHY

Nest on Mainstreet

• 1803 Candles are 100% soy and are a best seller at Nest on Mainstreet with an impressive variety of scents to chose from.

• Items with a local flair range from home decor signs to t-shirts to a tumbler with “Real Housewives of Parker” in bold silver text.

• Carter provides new merchandise regularly including seasonal and holiday themes - St. Patrick’s Day items will be replaced when Easter comes around and spring gnomes will show up just in time for summer.

• Lexi is at the front of the store most days to greet customers.

Gift basket with 1803 Candles

Fun and unique merchandise is updated often

Shannon Carter, Owner, with Lexi, Expert Client Welcomer

Novelties displayed in creative ways

LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE &

DESIGN

ARTICLE BY LISA BAKEWELL PHOTOGRAPHY BY ABBY WATKINS

FOUR ELEMENTS LANDSCAPECREATING YOUR OWN OUTDOOR OASIS

I love my cozy home, but I adore my backyard---especially in the summertime! It’s my oasis, my haven for serenity, birdwatching, barbecuing, gardening, entertaining, fire sitting, stargazing---you name it. To say I love my backyard is an understatement. So when I was asked to write this article featuring Four Elements Landscape & Outdoor Living (fourelementslandscape.com), in Littleton, Colorado, I was thrilled. John Van, its President, and his team are the perfect resource for creating a sanctuary of your own.

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John and the Four Elements team have curated and developed a “strong passion for nature’s beauty,” as well as “a determination to reflect the elements of that beauty” in its clients’ landscapes. This is priority one for John. “Our clients... enjoy spending time outdoors all year round... so whether it’s a small patio with a fire pit or a covered patio with an outdoor kitchen and pool, [our clients] view the outdoors as an extension of their home.”

Commitment to innovativeness and quality workmanship are also top priorities, which are clearly reflected in client reviews. For example, client Marcia Littleton loves recommending Four Elements to all of her friends. “When I purchased this house,” she shares, “the yard was completely out of control—overgrown. It was horrible, and overwhelming.

“John designed an oasis for me... he transformed the yard into a mountain scene unlike anything I have ever seen... The neighbors couldn’t believe what he was able to do in just a few days... His crew comes in and removes all existing landscape and transforms it before your eyes. They work hard, clean up after themselves, and are always very polite...”

Rick Kimble, Association President of Glenn Oaks Townhouse Owners Association couldn’t agree more. “As a small HOA, finding the best contractor to replace timber walls, brick retaining walls, railing and steps in our complex was a challenge... We could not be more pleased with the price and workmanship... Four Elements... has completed several projects for the association since 2010... They have now taken over our landscaping maintenance and snow removal.”

Ready to create that backyard oasis or refresh your curb appeal? Visit Four Elements Landscape & Outdoor Living at fourelementslandscape.com or call them at (303) 346-0837 to take the first steps.

Outdoor

projects

are intimidating. Let John and his team put you at ease!

The Four Elements team prides itself on understanding the most minute project details since beginning as a small family business. “We have firsthand knowledge [of] what materials work best for the project—and hands-on experience on [creating] high-quality projects that meet the client’s needs and wants—and still stay within budget.” Plus, John shares:

• “With our quality workmanship, our patios last for years without any issues.

• We have a team of artisans [who] can craft any retaining wall out of various types of materials.

• We are Coloradans, so we understand the weather here.

• We can design outdoor kitchens that can be used all year round.”

ARTICLE BY JULIE ANN TRIPP PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOSH DROVDAL WITH REVL MEDIA

WHERE LUXURY HOMES MEET SUSTAINABLE FARMING

FOX HILL

Just south of Parker, the houses in Fox Hill have continued to sprout up since the community’s inception, where the tranquility of rural living meets the convenience of modern amenities. One thing that

“When you come here, you almost come into a family,” Paige relishes. She’s the real estate agent behind the Fox Hill community.

Camerata Homes is one of the esteemed builders in Fox Hill.

“SETTING A VALUED PRECEDENCE FOR COMMUNITY LIVING”

hasn’t changed is Fox Hill home development’s vision, centered around the professionally managed Fox Hill Farm, where redefining the concept of luxury living with a unique farm-to-table community continues to be the focus.

Back in 1912, an Austrian immigrant chose the hilltop for his farmhouse as the views reminded him of his homeland. Today, the nearly 400-acre plot preserves the spirit of the old farmstead while introducing a new era of community living. Fox Hill provides buyers the opportunity to design and build a home with beauty and sustainability in mind. Custom architecture ensures no duplication and each home is uniquely built for the homeowner, the lifestyle and the land, with the grandeur of the Rocky Mountains as the backdrop.

Italian for “friendship” their vision showcases “building trends like health and wellness features, smart home integration, green building and universal design.”  The community embraces sustainable and environmentally friendly practices, including an aquaponics system in the greenhouse. From growing hops for brewing beer to using their tilapia-farm waste as fertilizer, the community maximizes natural processes, while reducing waste and transportation costs associated with traditional food distribution.

Fox Hill’s farm-to-table concept not only enhances the living experience for residents but also sets a precedent for mindful and sustainable communities. The development showcases how integrating professionally managed farms with luxury homes can create a

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harmonious and sustainable way of life. Some of the homes use solar and geothermal energy to consume the same amount of energy as they produce, otherwise known as a net-zero approach. Each custom-built house sits on a one to four acre plot of land.

“It’s not just the farm concept, but it’s an opportunity for our homeowners to design and build innovative custom homes that are sustainable, if that’s important to them.” Paige says.

The community-supported agriculture program at the farm offers residents access to weekly produce boxes, farm-raised tilapia, fresh eggs, honey from on-site hives and more. The homeowners, composed of everyone from multi-generational families to couples, enjoy community events like outdoor movies, block parties and a visit with Santa that includes a horsedrawn carriage ride.

Camerata Homes motto “Let your dreams be our project,” highlights the heart behind this community. As Fox Hill Living continues to evolve, it stands as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of modern luxury and sustainable farming, setting a valued precedence for community living in Franktown.

TRANSFORM YOUR LIVING SPACE INTO A

ZONE BLUE

What’s the secret to a happy, healthy, and long life? Believe it or not, it’s actually quite simple: There are no secret ingredients, no sizable expenditures, and absolutely zero manufactured elements of any kind. Dive in with us as we share insights from our interview with the internationally renowned Blue Zones Founder, National Geographic Explorer, and award-winning journalist who is revolutionizing the way Americans make choices that can lead to living your best life.

For over twenty years, Dan Buettner has been fully committed to studying the health and longevity of Americans as well as influencing the proper and attainable health-centric environments our communities should embody. What started with identifying five “blue zones” around the world where people are both living longer as well as enjoying a higher quality of life in their elder years has now also evolved into proactively creating eco-systems where our communities engage in setting the standard for clean health.

Buettner’s first cookbook, The Blue Zones Kitchen, is a fantastic resource featuring ingredients and cooking methods that can increase longevity, wellness, and mental health. The recipes also include lifestyle tips such as proper portion sizes and the best times to eat dinner. Plus, check out his additional seven books that dig deep into the exact foods you should eat to how your circle of friends and family can influence your quality of life.

Every time you go out to eat, you will consume an extra 300 calories that are laden with more sodium, sugar, and oil than eating at home. “Get your hands on a plant-based cookbook, pick a dozen recipes, and cook those with your family on Sundays. If you make the effort to cook it with your family, you will gain the skills and learn to make some good and whole food plant-based recipes.”

New York Times Best Selling Author and Netflix Producer, Dan Buettner, Inspires a Better Life Based on Research from the World’s Healthiest Cultures.

Tap into Dan’s wisdom that is creating a new category of places that are not merely the legacy of a healthy culture, but more consciously created by enlightened individuals that are intent on supercharging healthier communities!

Follow @DanBuettner and @BlueZones for full insights and visit BlueZones.com to shop exclusive products.

Exterior Endeavors

Refresh Your Home with Spray-Net’s Custom Chemistry Exterior Coatings

We like to talk about beauty from the inside out, but what about beauty when it comes to the outside of your home? The idea of painting the exterior of your home can be an intimidating thought. Whether your HOA is asking for an update, or you want a refreshed look, Spray-Net business owner, Matt Gibb and his team are here to help. They use a custom chemistry coating that works with a vast number of exterior textures and surfaces.

Matt is confident with his 15-year, no-peel warranty. Whether you’re working with standard siding, stucco, aluminum, vinyl or brick, Spray-Net has quality coating that is long lasting and sustainable.

“I say coating because it’s not paint,” Matt clarifies. He explains that the kind of paint used for vinyl is completely different from the elastomeric texture used on stucco. He also brings up options for brick. “Please don’t paint your brick,” he insists. “Ours is a stain that absorbs into [the brick] to keep it looking natural, but more importantly it doesn’t allow water to build up behind it and start peeling and falling apart.”

Matt enjoys educating his clients. He believes in quality products over anything. He says, “Take care of yourself. Ask these questions: What kind of warranty do they provide? What kind of coatings do they use when they paint? How long have they been around?”

Something trending right now is to accent your home by painting doors, windows and garage doors. “The transformation can be fun. People leave their house in the morning and come back to a brandnew look,” he shares. Matt also talks about the importance of building relationships and positively impacting people’s lives. He went into this industry because he likes to help people.

Matt challenges his team to do something extra at every job to make it a 5-star experience. “Change out a light bulb, bring in their trash cans... every job just do something,” he says. In this way, he is raising the bar in his industry, and it reflects in his 5-star reviews. Visit www.spray-net. com/en-us/locations/douglascounty or call for a quote (720) 802-9707.

“

“The transformation can be fun. People leave their house in the morning and come back to a brand-new look."

Stucco Pebble

Dark Drift Before

Brick Slate Before

Brick Slate Custom Vinyl

Black Trim Before

Stucco Pebble Dark Drift After

Brick Slate After

Brick Slate Custom Vinyl Black Trim After

MARCH 2024

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

MARCH 1ST

Parker Fashion Week

Villa Parker, 10750 Pine Drive Parker, CO 80138 | 7:00 PM

Buy tickets for South Denver's Fashion Show. Explore new designs by the designers showcased at Parker Fashion Week. This year's show will feature a children's show, local boutique, national designers and a fashion theatre finale. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. parkerfashionweek.com

MARCH 5TH

Bark for Books

Douglas County Libraries - Parker, 20105 East Mainstreet, Parker, CO 80138 | 4:00 PM

Kids ages 6-12 boost their literacy skills by reading aloud to trained therapy dogs. Sign-up for one 15-minute session in a study room. Registration required.

MARCH 5TH

Club CUENTO

Douglas County Libraries - Parker, 20105 East Mainstreet, Parker, CO 80138 | 4:30 PM

Want to practice reading Spanish or start learning? Join DCL every month to read and discuss a Spanish picture book and get creative with a fun activity. No need to read the book beforehand. All language levels, from beginner to Spanish speaker, are welcome.

MARCH 9TH

KILT TRIP Book Release Party

Fiction Beer Company Parker, 19523 Hess Road, Parker, CO 80134 | 2:00 PM

Join us for an exciting evening with Colorado Author Alexandra Kiley at Fiction Beer Company in Parker, CO. Her new Scottish romcom, Kilt Trip ($18.99, Canary Street Press) is swoon-worthy and incredibly atmospheric.

MARCH 13TH

Slick Science

Douglas County Libraries - Parker, 20105 East Mainstreet, Parker, CO 80138 | 5:00 PM

Children 8 to 12 years old. Registration required. Join DCL for an exploration of marine life. Learn about bioluminescence, shells and make an Angler Fish craft. Presented by Science Matters.

MARCH 19TH

Parker Realtor CE Class: Profiting With New Home Sales

Lokal Homes at Stonegate, 16635 Asking Loop, Parker, CO 80134 | 10:00 AM

Do you know how to represent clients for a successful close with a homebuilder? Acquire the foundation for successful new home transactions. Hosted by Lokal Homes at Stonegate.

events

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MARCH 22ND

Parker Symphony Orchestra: Excursion from Russia to Down Under

PACE Center, 20000 Pikes Peak Avenue, Parker, CO 80138 | 7:30 PM

This second excursion of the season takes us to Russia and Germany with Wagner’s darkly beautiful “Overture to the Flying Dutchman” and Shostakovich’s “Festive Overture,” followed by a fun piece from even further beyond in Australia, “Jabiru Dreaming.” Ending with Tchaikovsky’s familiar but spectacular “Symphony #5!”

MARCH 23RD

KT Tunstall

PACE Center, 2000 Pikes Peak Avenue, Parker, CO 80134 | 7:30 PM

Grammy®-nominated, multi-platinum recording artist KT Tunstall takes the PACE Center stage! Don’t miss out on this unforgettable musical journey Saturday, March 23rd.

MARCH 27TH

Doktor Kaboom! Look Out! Science is Coming!

PACE Center, 2000 Pikes Peak Avenue, Parker, CO 80134 | 6:30 PM

Normally in science, if you hear a KABOOM, it means trouble… but not for Doktor Kaboom! Creatively blending theater arts with the wonders of scientific exploration, Doktor Kaboom! keeps his crowds riveted with interest and rolling with laughter.