River Oaks, TX March 2023

HOME + DESIGN

M EET 3 DESIGN ERS BRI NGI NG ST YLE AN D BE AUT Y TO HOUSTO N TIPS FO R A B OU NTI FU L BACK YARD GARDEN 5 H OT TREN DS I N KITCH EN DESIGN

The Home Issue

M A R C H 2 02 3

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March 2023 PUBLISHER

Alan Eixman | alan.eixman@citylifestyle.com EDITOR

Christa Eixman | christa.eixman@citylifestyle.com

LIFESTYLE LETTER

There's No Place Like Home Home. So much contained in that little four letter word. Home is our grounding. Our base. Our launchpad. It's where we start and end each day.

And while the particulars look different for each of us, the meaning and value it holds for all of us is undeniable. Author Wendy Wunder said, "The magic thing about home is that it feels good to leave, and it feels even better to come back."

Our home is our place of refuge and, for most of us, the place we spend the majority of our time. It can be overwhelming to make your home look and feel just the way you like. That's why, this month, we spoke to several local interior designers, each with their own style. In addition, we talked to local Instagramer, Jillian, about what it takes to grow a successful spring garden. Plus, we are listing some of the hottest trends in kitchen design!

As you flip through the pages of this issue, we hope you'll feel encouraged and connected to the people around you - in your city, neighborhood and most all of - 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!

SOCIAL MEDIA COOR DINATOR

Olivia Eixman CONTR IBUTING WR ITER

Morgan Norwood

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell AD DESIGNER Whitney Lockhart LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain

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Proverbs 3:5-6 River Oaks Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the River Oaks 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 River Oaks Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the

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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

Interior Design | Home Renovations | Spatial Planning

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MARCH 2023

inside the issue The Home Issue

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F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

14 Meet the Designers

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Lifestyle Letter

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Inspired By HO ME + DES I GN

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Must See HO ME + DES I GN

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Artist’s Palette HO ME + DES I G N

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Home Update HO ME + DES I GN

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Locals Only LI FE + C U LT U R E

These 3 professionals are bringing personalized style and beauty to homes across Houston

22 Organic Gardening

Tips on starting your organic backyard garden in Houston this spring

32 5 hot Trends in Kitchen Design

Bold cabinet colors, statement hardware and swaths of stone

40 Spring Break in Houston

We rounded up some fun local activies to keep the kids busy during spring break

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Edwards Interiors and Design 10

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MEET THE DESIGNERS ARTICLE BY CHRISTA EIXMAN

Photo courtesy of Edwards Interiors and Design

THESE 3 PROFESSIONALS ARE BRINGING PERSONALIZED STYLE AND BEAUTY TO HOMES ACROSS HOUSTON

TIFANNY EDWARDS Owner of Edwards Interiors and Design

DO YOU HAVE A PARTICULAR STYLE? I create a design for clients that is functional and based on their definition of what feels beautiful to them; however, I love and appreciate architectural history and find myself weaving some of those details into each project, whether in the cabinetry and millwork or lighting fixtures, etc.

WHAT IS UNIQUE ABOUT YOUR DESIGNS? My approach to the design problem. While beauty and aesthetics are vital components to designing a space, I like to begin every design by creating an area that is first practical. It could be rearranging the home's footprint to suit the family's lifestyle, to selecting materials for a low-maintenance construction. Either one places the function of the design or product at the forefront.

WHY ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT DESIGNING,?

I became passionate about design from a young age when I wanted to rearrange my bedroom at least 2-3 times a year! I had this puzzle with four walls with doors, windows, and bedroom furniture that could only fit a particular way to function correctly. When I got older, I purchased a dollhouse kit from the local

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Photo courtesy of Edwards Interiors and Design

hobby store and built it from the ground up. The feeling of being able to create something from a vision on paper drew me into this field.

HOW DID YOU BECOME AN INTERIOR DESIGNER? Interior Design was not a profession that I sought out immediately because it was not something I was encouraged to pursue while growing up. I knew I had an artistic ability and a passion for helping people, so taking art and nursing classes were my initial pursuits. In my second year of college, I learned of the interior design program at Stephen F Austin University. I could apply my abilities to an actual profession that would allow me to use these skills to improve the lives of others.

WHY SHOULD A HOMEOWNER HIRE A DESIGNER? It can be intimidating for a homeowner to try and design a space or decorate themselves. Hiring an interior designer who understands space planning, furniture arrangement, and budgeting and has a basic understanding of building and remodeling can be the difference between an OK design and a great design.

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“Designing a space is much more than a frivolous or trivial activity because the home is where our daily activities happen. A designer can help avoid costly mistakes and increase the home's value.”

DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE. My style is luxury simplicity. I like mixing unique and meaningful accents with everyday pieces that are timeless and one-of-a-kind. I specialize in creating modern minimalist and functional spaces that reflect my client's personalities.

WHAT SETS KAREN RICHANI DESIGN APART? My passion and commitment. I'm committed to designing my clients' dream spaces and turning them into reality. I invest in every single project, no matter if it is an entire house interior design project or designing a single room.

HAVE YOU ALWAYS WANTED TO BE A DESIGNER? Yes! I was born to become a designer. Since I was a little girl, concepts such as design, color, creativity, technique, and improvements have always fascinated me. I love that I can influence and contribute to transformations that improve people's quality of life in their spaces.

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Photo courtesy of Karen Richani Design

KAREN RICHANI Owner of Karen Richani Design

WHAT HAS INSPIRED YOUR DESIGNS? I've moved overseas multiple times during the past 16 years. This journey has enriched my career, personal, and family life, letting me collect great experiences and become rooted in many different communities. Being exposed to so many different and rich cultures and visiting so many beautiful places helped shape what we are today as a family and expanded my design lens in many ways.

HOW DID YOU GET STARTED? I studied architecture at Universidad del Zulia, Venezuela, where I was offered a teaching job as a Professor of History of Art and Architecture at the undergraduate level. Though this opportunity, I continued to learn at a more practical level, combining academic responsibilities with design work. I then obtained my Master's degree in High Technology Buildings from Universidad Politecnica de Madrid. I then returned to my home country and started my own architectural firm specializing in residential and commercial architecture.

Once we moved to Houston, I decided to continue with my passion: Design. I found great job opportunities, but the one that felt right for my lifestyle was becoming an Interior Designer. Since 2015, I've changed my career path, taking off my hat as an architect and replacing it with a new one that allows me to transform and beautify the interior spaces of others.

WHAT CAN A DESIGNER BRING TO THE TABLE? Designing a space is much more than a frivolous or trivial activity because the home is where our daily activities happen. A designer can help avoid costly mistakes and increase the home's value. For some, designing and implementing an idea could be an overwhelming process. With our help, you can navigate all of the questions by being accompanied by a professional.

Photo courtesy of Karen Richani Design

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LAURA UMANSKY Owner of Laura U Design Collective DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE. I like to say my style is fun, bold, and romantic. I'm also a research junkie, so when I approach a home's design, I'm taking everything into account: the architecture, the landscape, and the exposure to natural light.

HOW DO YOU APPROACH DESIGNING A HOME? At the Laura U Design Collective, we approach each project by first focusing on our client's interests.

Whether our clients collect art, travel, or like to entertain friends, their passions should be reflected in the home. We have found that the term "celebrating home" best embodies what we do. We celebrate the warmth, comfort, and romance of what home, and the memories that live within, could mean for someone. When I walk into my own home, I'm surrounded by things that I love (including my family), and I want that for my clients too.

WHAT DIFFERENTIATES LAURA U DESIGN COLLECTIVE FROM OTHER DESIGNERS? My multi-disciplinary team is what really differentiates us from other design firms. As a collective, it's not just me sitting in a studio designing. We are a team of 15

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creative individuals with diverse backgrounds in architecture, graphic design, and fine art. We collaborate to give our clients an exceptional creative experience, and it goes without saying a gorgeous home! While our process and technical expertise drive our passion, we remain down-to-earth and have fun doing what we do.

WHY ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT DESIGNING? From a young age, I was always in awe of my father, who would design and build our family homes. Seeing that he could bring a home to life from a sketch was inspiring and led me never to doubt that I could do it myself. When I was younger, I was always moving around my furniture and redesigning my room. A lot of children do this, but I was slightly obsessed! I started my own design firm at a really young age which allowed me to combine my love of home and my love of business and entrepreneurship.

My firm opened in 2007 as a quaint boutique on Westheimer with my interior design studio in the back, where I offered furnishings and design to my Houstonbased clientele. Fifteen years later, we are a team of more than 15, with two locations, that works on extensive and historical renovations and interior design.

WHAT KEEPS YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT DESIGNING EACH DAY? Seeing our clients' vision come to life is why I get up every morning! That is why we do what we do! They come to us with ideas and hopes for their home, and we can bring that to life, giving them a comfortable, beautiful home to create memories in with family and friends.

IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT DOES A DESIGNER BRING TO THE TABLE? Photo courtesy of Laura U Design Collective Photo courtesy of Laura U Design Collective

Renovating and furnishing your home is absolutely a full-time job. Most homeowners simply do not have the time for what is typically an 8-12 month investment that includes troubleshooting with furniture manufacturers, dealing with sub-contractors, and ensuring that through it all, your home is just as you want it to be.

Usually, our clients are looking for bespoke, custom, one-of-a-kind pieces for their homes - something you can't get at a retail store. As designers, we're connected to trade-exclusive vendors and artisans who produce extraordinary furniture you can't find anywhere else. Plus, we obtain those pieces at designer-only costs.

While it is a significant financial investment, working with a designer will save time and headaches. Not only that, you will have a home professionally curated for you, with pieces that were tailor-made to your lifestyle. Residential design is such a personal process; many of my former clients are my friends now!

If you select the right person to work with, you could have a friend for life too.

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Organic

Gardening Tips on starting your organic backyard garden in Houston this spring

ARTICLE BY MORGAN NORWOOD

Planting an organic backyard garden can be challenging, especially when you don't know where to start. Just ask Houston local Jillian, also known as @TheWoodlandsTxGardener, on Instagram.

Like any other gardening newbie, Jillian did not have the most magical start. She started container gardening on her apartment balcony back in 2014, but it wasn't until a couple of years later that the necessity of planting the right plant in the right season really clicked. She went on to work at the Austin farmers market, where she learned a great deal about how and when to garden in Texas.

According to Jillian, it is easy to get overwhelmed in March because early spring is the busiest time in the garden. The beginning of this month marks the last frost date, and it is necessary to do bed prep and planting to kick off the new season before summer.

"It is vital to get spring plants in as early as possible before the heat sets in because many of the spring plants, like lettuces, require cool temperatures and will bolt (go to seed) once the mornings stop being reliably cool," she says.

When asked what is good to plant this time of year, Jillian says there are plenty of choices.

"March is the prime time for tomato planting because they need time to mature and set fruit before temperatures regularly hit 85 and they stop flowering," Jillian says. "Relatives to tomatoes, eggplants, and peppers, can also be planted in March. Beans, basil, and radishes can be planted at any time of the month, while melons and cucumbers should wait until the middle or end of the month when temperatures are just a bit more reliably warm".

If you need an easy win, she recommends starting with some heat-tolerant lettuce varieties from seeds such as arugula, radishes, and zinnias.

"I love trying new varieties each year," Jillian says, "which means starting lots of plants from seed. I also dabble in vermiculture (aka worm composting, entirely unrelated to vermin), composting, rainwater harvesting, and seed saving. I feel really good knowing our produce scraps are turned back into the soil," says Jillian.

Jillian @TheWoodlandsTxGardener Jillian lives in The Woodlands with her husband David, their two daughters, and their poodle pup "Boo," who occasionally appears on her gardening Instagram @TheWoodlandsTxGardener.

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Jillian now sections her garden on raised beds and plants native vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruits. Her focus is primarily on year-round vegetable gardening and flowers for cutting and pollinators. She strives to grow plants she can harvest with her kids and eat right off the plant, which means always planning space for your fruits and vegetables.

When asked about her advice to become a better gardener, Jillian says to visit a botanical garden. She recommends checking out Mercer Botanic Gardens.

"They have a garden for every gardener," says Jillian.

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According to Jillian, there are different strategies when it comes to home gardening, but the soil is the most important. Jillian has three compost bins, two open wires, and one tumbler. She also includes a vermiculture bin composting with worms.

Here are her tips for a thriving soil base for your spring garden:

Tip #1

Wait for the last frost to clear out garden beds of debris. Leaves are a vital shelter for insects during the winter.

Use a rake instead of a leaf blower when possible.

Tip #2

Apply a couple of inches of compost to each bed. You don't need to buy all new soil; just mix it into the compost along the top layer.

Tip #3

Apply a layer of mulch. Skip the dyed mulches, which can negatively impact plant and soil health. You can save a buck and opt for mulch leaves or pine straw mulch. These will break down during the year, feed the soil, reduce evaporation, and prevent weeds.

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ARTICLE BY PHYLLIS NAWROT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY COURTESY OF SUNNYROAD INTERIOR DESIGN CENTER

Laura Lancaster, the owner of Sunnyroad Interior Design Center, is a native Houstonian with a Texas-size pedigree for buying, designing, and producing custom-made furniture.

In the early 1970s, her parents established The Shoe Hut, a unique shopping experience selling shoes, accessories, gifts, and even antiques. It was there Lancaster began her career managing the buying of shoes.

Later, she attended Texas Tech and the University of Alabama, majoring in fashion merchandising. It was there she developed a passion for fabric and design.

"I love creating something out of nothing," says Lancaster. "I can see what it will become."

When Mom and Dad Lancaster launched Sunnyroad Interiors on Fondren Road a few years later, they became pioneers on that "fabric and furniture road." They created a family-owned business with design services known for impeccable fabrics, home decor, and custom furniture.

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With her passion for fabrics, Laura concentrated on interior design and all that entailed. Her brothers, Jim and Herb, focused on the manufacturing side of the business, founding H. Lancaster, a residential furniture retailer.

In 2008, Rafael O'Neill joined Sunnyroad Interiors. Today, they offer a 19,000-square-foot showroom across from the original location where they invite you to replace and reinvent your style and turn your ideas and inspiration into reality. Their attention to detail sets this family-run business apart from its competition.

The new design center includes services that include full remodeling, new construction, unique home accessories, highend fabrics and wallpaper, window treatment, pillows, slipcovers, upholstery, and bedding. Custom-made furniture is made in-house, offering a lifetime warranty on any wood frame and a

10-year warranty on flame retardant foam. Each piece is made one at a time in America, right here in Houston.

Lancaster believes in "creating a bond and understanding with the person who walks through the door. She believes that the designer must take the time to question you about need, style, and functionality.

"Everyone is different, so it is especially important to remember that it is their style, not yours." Lancaster says, "If you can dream it, Sunnyroad Interiors can create it."

Sunnyroad recently completed a comfortable coffee bar for customers to enjoy a coffee, latte, or expresso while exploring the various "design" rooms and vignettes. Their showroom offers examples of custom furniture, rugs, pillows, clothing, shoes, wallpapers, fabrics, antiques, gift items, fine art, and accessories that inspire.

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5 Hot Trends

in Kitchen Design A peek at what’s ahead: bold cabinet colors, statement hardware and swaths of stone.

When designing your dream kitchen, it’s important to balance timeless features with elements that reflect your personality and design aesthetic. You may not plan to remodel your kitchen each year (does anyone do that?), but that doesn’t mean there aren’t creative ways to keep your space feeling modern and fresh.

We spoke with interior designer Brooke Cover about the trends in kitchen design she’s seeing this year, touching on everything from cabinet colors and lighting to tile and countertop combos she’s loving.

ARTICLE BY HALEY WILLIAMS PHOTOGRAPHY BY J.A. STENGER PHOTOGRAPHY

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TA K I N G T H E C O U N T E R M AT E R I A L U P THE BACKSPLASH Although the iconic subway tile backsplash is timeless in its own right, Brooke says she is seeing a big shift toward marble slab backsplashes — which add drama and depth to the kitchen. Not only is it easier to clean than tile, but a marble backsplash and countertop also sets the tone for the entire space and makes a big statement.

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WA R M I N G U P THE WHITE We doubt the classic white kitchen will ever completely go out of style, but trends show people are going away from the white kitchen and gray cabinets. They’re opting for white mixed with warmer wood tones, dark greens and blues.

Some homeowners are mixing vintage in with the new and modern through butcher block islands or other unique cabinetry choices. Black is making a bold comeback in some kitchens, while

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others usher in warmth through painted islands or other darker contrast tiles in the bar area. You don’t have to leave behind the timelessness when you warm up your space if you opt for equally timeless black and wood-stained accents. If you want a quick refresh, consider adding pops of wood through cutting boards or other decor accents on countertops or open shelves.

HIDDEN STORAGE, VISIBLE APPLIANCES Gone are the days of it being a given to hide the fridge behind custom cabinets. Many brands of appliances are so beautiful and sleek these days, homeowners want to see them rather than hide them behind a cabinet facade. Small appliances, however, are another story. Custom cabinets and “appliance garages” aren’t going away anytime soon. Form and function make them a desirable addition to any kitchen.

BOLD H A R D WA R E Mixed metals and sizes are having a moment in kitchens across America. Brooke says not to shy away from a variety of sizes of pulls and handles, depending on the drawer and door size. For instance, you may see a mixture of longer pulls on larger drawers and square knobs on smaller glassware cabinets - and that’s more than just ok - that’s recommended. As the heart of the home, kitchens shouldn’t feel sterile and hyper-coordinated - they should feel inviting and tailored to the space. Since no two kitchens will be exactly alike, feel free to boldly mix the hardware sizes and styles to the needs of your kitchen.

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C O N T R A S T, C O N T R A S T, CONTRAST!

Brooke’s Pro Tip: I suggest viewing countertop slabs in person vs. a small sample piece because each slab has unique movement and colors. They are all so beautiful and works of art. Taking a trip to the warehouse will really help a client to understand the different types available and see the difference in the look of the material.

SCAN QR CODE FOR BROOKE’S FAV O R I T E C O U N T E R T O P S T H I S Y E A R .

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From painted and stained islands to dark lower cabinetry with bright white uppers and mixed lighting fixtures, contrast is the name of the game this year. You’ll see this juxtaposition between clean white and darker colors or even this year’s favorite - greens and blues - all over newly designed kitchens. You’re not breaking any rules by coordinating sculptural pendants over the kitchen island with more vintage-inspired gooseneck sconces over the standalone bar or a chandelier over the eat-in kitchen.

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Spring Break

in Houston 1.

Discovery Green We rounded up some fun local activies to keep the kids busy during spring break For those who don't plan to leave town for a vacation, finding ways to entertain the kids can be challenging. Luckily, staying right here in Houston can be just as fun! From parks to museums and more, there's something for everyone. Read on for some of our top picks for fun activities for your family to enjoy this spring break.

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Discovery Green is one of Houston's most popular destinations for families during spring break. The 12-acre park offers a two-acre lake with paddle boats, a playground, basketball courts, jogging trails, and plenty of grassy areas for running around or picnicking. The park also hosts various events, such as outdoor movie screenings, concerts, and performances.

This year, the park is bringing back its outdoor roller skating rink open daily during spring break.

ARTICLE BY RIVER OAKS LIFESTYLE STAFF

2.

3.

4.

Day Trip to Galveston

Levy Park

Houston Rodeo

Galveston, Texas, is an excellent destination for families during spring break.

Just a short drive away, it offers an array of family-friendly activities. The beach is always a popular spot, with miles of sandy beaches where you can soak up the sun or search for shells. Enjoy the stunning architecture of the historic district, with its Victorian homes and other historic buildings that date back to the 1800s. There are also a variety of attractions, such as Moody Gardens and Pleasure Pier.

Levy Park is an outdoor oasis ideal for spending quality time with the family during spring break. With its sprawling green space, interactive water features, and more, Levy Park has something for everyone in the family to enjoy. There are also weekly events and activities hosted at Levy Park to keep your family entertained, such as yoga classes, music performances, and Children's Bingo.

Take a spin on carnival rides, watch an exciting livestock show or sample delicious food and drinks. There are also plenty of family-friendly activities throughout the rodeo. You can explore the petting zoo, join in on some agricultural education programs, or take in the sights and sounds of the live music performances including Kenny Chesney and Chris Stapleton.

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thejoint.com *Offer valued at $45. Valid for new patients only. Initial visit includes consultation, exam and adjustment. Offer and offer value may vary for Medicare eligible patients. NC: IF YOU DECIDE TO PURCHASE ADDITIONAL TREATMENT, YOU HAVE THE LEGAL RIGHT TO CHANGE YOUR MIND WITHIN THREE DAYS AND RECEIVE A REFUND. (N.C. Gen. Stat. 90-154.1). FL & KY: THE PATIENT AND ANY OTHER PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT HAS THE RIGHT TO REFUSE TO PAY, CANCEL (RESCIND) PAYMENT OR BE REIMBURSED FOR ANY OTHER SERVICE, EXAMINATION OR TREATMENT WHICH IS PERFORMED AS A RESULT OF AND WITHIN 72 HOURS OF RESPONDING TO THE ADVERTISEMENT FOR THE FREE, DISCOUNTED OR REDUCED FEE SERVICES, EXAMINATION OR TREATMENT. (FLA. STAT. 456.02) (201 KAR 21:065). Subject to additional state statutes and regulations. See clinic for chiropractor(s)’ name and license info. Clinics managed and/or owned by franchisee or Prof. Corps. Restrictions may apply to Medicare eligible patients. Individual results may vary. Msg & data rates may apply. © 2023 The Joint Corp. All Rights Reserved.

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