LIFE + CULTURE
INDULGE IN LONE RIVER RANCH WATER AND MIRANDA LAMBERT’S SUMMERTIME COLLAB

FOOD + BEVERAGE
TASTE THE FRESHNESS AT OJO DE AGUA IN RIVER OAKS DISTRICT
HOME + DESIGN
ELEVATE YOUR SPACE WITH M ARCHITECTURE’S FUNCTIONAL BEAUTY



LIFE + CULTURE
INDULGE IN LONE RIVER RANCH WATER AND MIRANDA LAMBERT’S SUMMERTIME COLLAB
FOOD + BEVERAGE
TASTE THE FRESHNESS AT OJO DE AGUA IN RIVER OAKS DISTRICT
HOME + DESIGN
ELEVATE YOUR SPACE WITH M ARCHITECTURE’S FUNCTIONAL BEAUTY
Discover lakeside luxury living at its absolute finest in this breathtaking six-bedroom modern masterpiece, just 45 minutes from Houston. This home features a powerfully minimalist mixed-materials aesthetic and jaw-dropping views.
Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reflect actual property conditions.
Happy Summertime! I hope this letter finds you relaxing by the pool or lake and soaking in some much-needed Vitamin D. I am thrilled to assume the helm of River Oaks Lifestyle as Owner and Publisher starting with this special Summer Fun issue. In gratitude to our departing publisher Alan Eixman and his wife and gifted editor Christa Eixman for setting the standard, I wish you endless fun in your next adventure!
And now, a little about me – I launched Memorial Lifestyle amidst the first year of the pandemic and it has been such a rewarding journey so far. I am at my best when I am ‘connecting the dots’ between local business owners and our readers and when sharing inspiring stories. I promise to bring the same heart and purpose to this magazine as well. You deserve it.
I pinch myself daily at my good fortune to lead a powerhouse team of gifted women who work their tails off to bring the magic each month – my extraordinary editor Gabi De la Rosa, my assistant Kayla Shutts, and my rockstar photographer Lauren Holub. You will meet them in the coming issues!
In addition to wearing the entrepreneur and publisher hat, I am Mom to a beautiful twenty-something redhead and aspiring actress living her dream on the West Coast; I am the fiancé to my sweet soulmate Jeremy; and furbaby momma to my Cavapoo Penny Apricot and Ragdoll cat Coco Diva. I am a native Houstonian, a self-professed foodie, and a passionate promoter of all things local.
That’s enough about me – time to dig into this juicy issue! Our cover feature showcases the meteoric rise of the Queen of Ranch Water, Katie Beal Brown. We follow her footsteps from a small West Texas town girl, with an impactful detour in New York City, and finally to CEO of one of the hottest beverage brands on the market today. Choosing to partner with Miranda Lambert for the next level of success, this duo is shaking up the scene and you are invited along for the ride.
There’s much more inside so grab some lemonade (or Ranch Water!) and get comfy. Everyone is a friend, so feel free to drop me a line at suzanne. schakett@citylifestyle.com and follow us on IG. There’s so much to look forward to, together.
With anticipation, SUZANNE SCHAKETT, PUBLISHER @RIVEROAKSLIFESTYLE
July 2023
PUBLISHER
Suzanne Schakett
suzanne.schakett@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Christa Eixman
SALES DIRECTOR
Suzanne Schakett
suzanne.schakett@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Kayla Shutts | kayla.shutts@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Christa Eixman, Amanda Thomas
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
Where neighbors can see and be seen.
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Ledge Lounger, a Houston-based company, is dedicated to crafting a luxurious escape by the pool, beach, or backyard. Their classic outdoor furniture, stylish accessories, and signature in-pool furniture are designed to create perfect outdoor spaces for entertainment and relaxation. ledgeloungers.com
The Echo Chaise Lounger offers a stylish sunbathing experience with its unique design. It is crafted from UV 20-rated virgin resin, ensuring durability for years of outdoor use. The easy-to-clean, stain-resistant marine-grade fabric cushions provide weather resistance. Customize colors and enjoy extended lounging with multiple chaises for poolside comfort.
ARTICLE BY RIVER OAKS LIFESTYLE STAFF PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF LEDGE LOUNGERSkip the inflatable hassles with Ledge Lounger's unique floating pool pillow, perfect for relaxation anywhere. Unbox, laze, and create memorable moments while enjoying top-quality comfort during pool floats or family time on the lawn. Choose from various patterns to match any outdoor style.
Ledge Lounger's array of sleek, durable outdoor products add an elevated element to outdoor space.
The Luxury Autograph Chaise Lounger, a recipient of the Good Design Award, is specifically designed for in-pool use. Its architectural silhouette offers elevated ergonomics and lumbar support, enabling complete relaxation and more significant interaction with the surroundings. Crafted from UV 20-rated virgin resin, it combines the beloved Signature look with enhanced features for the ultimate lounging experience.
The Ping Pong Table offers a memorable day of fun for families, friends, and neighbors. Its top-notch construction ensures durability against tough competition. The outdoor version includes two paddles, four ping pong balls, storage trays, cup holders, a bottle opener, and a removable net for quick transformation into a dining table. Customize colors for a perfect yard aesthetic.
Elevate mealtimes on the patio with an outdoor dining table. It provides a space to host meaningful moments, from al fresco dining events to sun-soaked board games with loved ones. These beautiful and sturdy tables come in rectangular or round shapes, customizable to fit any space and guest count.
Katie Beal Brown grew up on her family’s ranch in a small, far West Texas town where her family settled over 100 years ago.
It was here she developed her pioneering spirit. It’s a spirit dating back to her great-great-grandfather, who patented the wire fence tightener in 1894, and her great-grandfather, one of the early wildcatters (late 19th-century oil prospectors who drilled exploratory wells).
“Since I was a little girl, I was always very ambitious, and I’ve always had entrepreneurial ambitions,” she recalls. “But I was never sure how that would manifest itself in my life down the road.”
Fast forward to 2023. Katie is now the CEO of Lone River Beverage Company, which dominates the Texas market with its take on the classic cocktail of tequila, soda and lime. But what sparked the idea?
She wanted to share a piece of West Texas with her friends.
When Katie got married, she and her husband moved to New York City.
While there, a common question she received at social gatherings was, “Where are you from?”
Rather than explain where her hometown is on the map, Katie showed them the spirit of West Texas by introducing them to the region’s signature ranch water.
“When I would tell people the name of the town that I grew up in, they didn’t have any real context or connection to it,” Katie recalls. “But doing it through the lens of ranch water kind of allowed me to share a little more about the culture of West Texas.”
Brown served the cocktail to her friends at parties, and what began as an icebreaker quickly spread beyond her social circle.
“Our friends introduced it to their friends, and I felt like there was a bigger interest in this cocktail,” she says.
Katie, who worked for an advertising agency then, had a lightbulb moment.
She thought, “What if we built a brand and packaged this drink in a way that we could share it with more people?”
Over the next two to three years, Katie went through the process of figuring out how to bring her idea to life, and in 2019, she founded Lone River. She notes the symbolism behind the name, mentioning how a river shapes a landscape and moves things out of its way to go down a path.
“In an area where there’s not a lot of water, there is this lone river charting its own path,” Katie explains. “It spoke to the pioneering spirit of my family and the pioneering spirit that built the brand.”
After receiving the funding to take the brand to the next level, she quit her job in January 2020 to focus on the business
ARTICLE BY AMANDA THOMAS PHOTOGRAPHY BY COURTESY OF LONE RIVER RANCH WATERfull-time. Later that year, she secured a major distribution deal with H-E-B, one of Texas’ largest grocery store chains, with a deadline to deliver the order by April 1, 2020.
But little did she know the brand she built while living in New York City would bring her back to the small town where she grew up.
Katie and her husband were at her family’s ranch when COVID19 hit in March 2020, which led to them deciding to move from New York City to Fort Worth. For Katie, the move back to Texas was an opportunity to bring her business full circle and reconnect with the region that inspired her. With the distribution deadline looming, the pressure was on.
Thankfully, they met the deadline, and Ranch Water hit the shelves in April 2020. The product, made with agave nectar and a taste of lime, comes in four flavors — original, prickly pear, Rio red grapefruit and spicy.
During the spring and summer of 2021, Lone River expanded to a national audience and caught the attention of the global beverage leader Diageo, which acquired the company in August 2021.
In April 2022, Lone River launched its Ranch Rita Classic Margarita, followed by the release of a variety pack in February. The variety pack includes the classic, blood orange, mango and spicy flavors.
In March, Lone River partnered with country music superstar Miranda Lambert to launch a new ad campaign that honors the grit and spirit of country culture.
The campaign also highlights the “do-it-your-own-way” ethos on which Katie and Miranda got their start as trailblazing Texan women.
“I don’t do a ton of partnerships, but I was drawn to Katie’s story, and found so many similarities with my own, so working with Lone River is really special for me,” Miranda says in a press release. “I’m a storyteller first and foremost, and that’s exactly what Katie set out to do with this brand.”
Lone River approached working with the country music powerhouse like a true partnership. They wanted more than a celebrity face to associate the brand with, and Miranda far exceeded their expectations.
“Coming out of our shoot with her, she sent me a note that said it felt really right and real,” Katie recalls. “We wanted somebody that represents the values of where we come from and would be invested in helping us build this brand.”
Katie and Miranda will also team up to host luncheons and
networking events to empower entrepreneurial women. As Lone River continues to make its mark in the beverage industry nationwide, Katie wants to ensure that people remember where it all started.
“We wouldn’t be here without the support of our local consumers,” she says. “We had a dream of bringing this product to life and introducing it to as many people as possible. I never imagined we’d be a national brand, and a lot of that is because of the support Texans have given us along the way.” loneriverbevco.com
“I’m a storyteller first and foremost, and that’s exactly what Katie set out to do with this brand.”
- Miranda Lambert
About 16 million Americans have dry eyes. Most dry eye cases are under diagnosed and under treated.
Take
M Architecture personalizes architectural masterpieces with passion and innovation.
In the world of architecture, Megan Roe has emerged as a trailblazer. As one of the few female architects, she defies conventions and shatters glass ceilings. Her unique perspective and innovative approach have set her apart, inspiring others and reshaping the industry’s landscape.
As a kid, Megan would watch her dad tackle home improvement projects around the house, and she couldn’t help but join in. They’d team up to install tiles and even build furniture together. Those moments sparked something in Megan, a passion for architecture that would shape her future.
Spending time with her dad, planning and executing their projects, Megan began to see how architecture could completely transform a space. It wasn’t just about making things look nice; it was about creating spaces that were functional and beautiful at the same time.
Megan’s interests led her to enroll in high school architecture classes, laying the foundation for her academic journey in the field. Subsequently, she pursued her interest further by enrolling in the architecture program at Texas A&M.
After gaining valuable work experience, Megan boldly decided to start her own company, M Architecture. With a deep understanding of the importance of personalized design, Megan and her team are dedicated to creating spaces that truly reflect their client’s unique needs and preferences. Through thoughtful consultations and an attentive approach, they ensure that every design is tailored to enhance the lives of those who inhabit the spaces they create.
The team at M Architecture begins their design process by delving deep into the client’s vision and engaging in extensive conversations. From there, they meticulously craft initial concepts, drawing inspiration from the client’s input and infusing their collective artistic flair. This collaborative approach encourages active client participation in the decision-making process, resulting in spaces that truly embody the client’s individuality.
“I love the challenges of taking both people’s ideas and style and blending them to create something truly personalized and unique,” says Megan. “I’ve worked with couples, and the wife wants something modern while the husband prefers a more traditional style. I love solving problems and developing a design they both love!”
To assist in the design process, M Architecture utilizes cutting-edge software incorporating the latest 3-D technology into the design process. This technology enables them to create virtual representations of spaces, make real-time adjustments, and provide immersive experiences for clients. By embracing these innovations, M Architecture enhances efficiency, precision, and client collaboration in delivering exceptional luxury spaces.
The team at M Architecture fearlessly pushes boundaries and sparks inspiration among peers and clients alike. With their innovative approach, they confidently navigate the ever-changing world of architecture, leaving an unforgettable imprint on the industry. Their passion and commitment to excellence redefine what’s possible, making M Architecture a true trailblazer in the field.
watermarkhoustonheights.com
We’re taking Assisted Living and Memory Care to new heights. From an award-winning Watermark University class on conversational French to a fun cultural landmark excursion through our Extraordinary Outings program, or even an outof-this-world virtual reality experience, there’s always more to explore at The Watermark at Houston Heights. With four signature dining venues filled with flavorful fare, along with a personal pantry that each resident in our Memory Care neighborhood can dip into every day, this is a community designed for your life.
At The Watermark at Houston Heights, every aspect of life is elevated. Now open, this modern senior community offers customized care for Senior Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care. Here, it’s easy to thrive with resort-style amenities, such as an outdoor pool, a spa and salon, wellness and educational offerings, even an on-site golf simulator. With views of the downtown Houston skyline, the community provides easy access to stylish restaurants, boutiques, art galleries, and more.
Call 281-241-5319 to schedule your private visit today. 23-HWH-4439A ID#
With longtime River Oaks area rug resource London Grey marking a decade at its Upper Kirby location (3600 Kirby Drive at Richmond), we sat down at the go-to boutique for premium, one-of-a-kind and custom pieces to get the perspective on pile from three, top Houston area designers.
ARTICLE BY RIVER OAKS LIFESTYLE STAFF
PHOTOGRAPHY BY COURTESY OF LONDON GREY RUGS
WHAT IS IT ABOUT A RUG THAT MAKES IT A KEY ELEMENT OF DESIGN?
According to Leslie Strauss , an interiors pro in Ladco’s Resort Design Group a Houston-based team known for their dazzling work in vacation hotspots ranging from Cabo to Telluride, “A rug can help define different areas within a room, such as seating vignette in a living room or a dining area in an open-concept space. They can also help to break large areas to create a more intimate feel.
Erin Hicks, who has built a following both for her Houston-centric cookbook series and her hospitality designs for restaurants such as Bayou City Seafood & Pasta, Rainbow Lodge and soon-to-open PostScript HTX at Arrive River Oaks adds, “Rugs are a dynamic and unifying element that provide color, texture and beneficial acoustical properties.”
Sought-after for her sophisticated interiors in both primary and secondary homes, Carrie Evans says, “A rug is the anchor of the room. It ties everything together, creating a warm, inviting and individualized space.”
WHAT ARE THE DOS AND DON’TS TO KEEP IN MIND WHEN CHOOSING A RUG FOR A SPACE?
Evans: It all depends on the lifestyle of the client and what they hope to achieve. Someone with pets or children should steer clear of silk, or any rugs with viscose. Natural fiber rugs are a good option for something less expensive and neutral, and they never really go out of style. I love when a client is willing to take a risk with a rug, because they can add an element of fun and unpredictability to a room.
Strauss: Do consider factors such as durability, ease of maintenance, comfort and suitability for the specific room. If the rug will be in a high-traffic area, choose a sturdy material such as wool, polypropylene, nylon or polyester. And always check the cleaning instructions. Do not use a vacuum with a rotating brush or beater bars, which can break the fibers and distort the pile; instead opt for a canister-style vacuum cleaner that primarily use suction to clean. Don’t skimp on rug pads – look for a felt or a felt and rubber mix that won’t stain or ruin your floors.
Hicks: Size definitely matters when it comes to rugs. In a dining room, make sure the rug is large enough to be able to comfortably pull out chairs. In a bedroom, king size beds need something at least 9 x 12 foot and queen beds shouldn’t be smaller than 8 x 10. And rugs should be at least 6 inches wider
on each side of a sofa. Go bold and don’t be afraid of color, pattern and texture. Rugs can typically be replaced or relocated more easily than fine furniture.
Hicks: I’m a huge fan of heirloom rugs, and lately I’m loving wool and silk textured and shaggy rugs. I’m also really drawn to the juxtaposition of a more traditional antique rug in a contemporary space.
Strauss: The clean lines, geometric patterns and a muted color palette of modern rugs are perfect for those who want to add a touch of contemporary style to their space. I love vintage Turkish Oushaks in muted hues in both traditional and contemporary homes. The “perfectly imperfect” pattern ads character without being overpowering.
Evans: I’m in love with the variety of modern rugs available now. I also love the opportunities that exist to customize a rug for particular spaces. I was over the ‘gray’ phase years ago, and it’s nice to see a trend back to fun, vibrant colors.
Strauss: Using a rug as a wall hanging can create an eclectic, bohemian look. I’ve also used them to cover ottomans.
Evans: As much as I like to think outside the box, I don’t want to see a rug on a wall, or at an angle, etc. As they say, ‘everything in its place.’
Hicks: Rug-upholstered ottomans plus floor and throw pillows are a fun touch. They can also be interesting as a headboard or divider.
Evans: While I prefer hardwoods with rugs, there are so many fun patterns and colors in wallto-wall now.
Hicks: I generally prefer modular carpet tiles if going wall-to-wall, but if you are a non-red-wine drinking person without pets or children (she laughs), I think custom wall-to-wall carpeting can be beautiful.
Strauss: I love wall to wall carpeting in bedrooms, closets, playrooms and home theaters. It acts as an insulator, keeping warm and cool air from escaping, absorbing sound and providing a soft surface to step on.
Dr. Koutrach is an exceptional prosthodontist with more than 25 years of experience in all aspects of prosthodontics: dental implants, crows and bridges, aesthetics dentistry and removable prosthesis. He has an energetic personality and impressive background. He is a board-certified prosthodontist and a Diplomate of The American Board of Prosthodontics, and also board-certified dental implantologist and a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology.
Dr. Koutrach received his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry, and his specialty training in prosthodontics and implant dentistry at Indiana University School of Dentistry in 1996. He also has completed a one-year implant fellowship at University of Michigan School of Dentistry.
Dr. Koutrach currently teaches part-time as an Associate Professor in The Department of Prosthodontics at The University of Texas School of Dentistry at Houston, and has published numerous articles related to prosthodontics and dental implant in several scientific dental journals.
Dr. Koutrach is a devoted husband and father and is happily married to his wife Racha and has two teenage children, Raman and Hay. When he is not working, Dr. Koutrach enjoys playing guitar, outdoor bicycling and traveling the world. He is someone who I believe can uphold the state of art and quality of care that I have afforded our patients. You will find him to be a competent and approachable practitioner who will take excellent care of our mutual patients.
I am pleased to welcome Dr. Mo Koutrach to our practice.
Ojo de Agua, the acclaimed all-day cafe and juice bar, has opened its doors at the River Oaks District. With several locations in Mexico City and a successful debut in Miami, Ojo de Agua brings its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients to Houston’s diverse clientele.
The menu at Ojo de Agua is a colorful celebration of delectable dishes and nourishing juices. Guests can indulge in their signature Acai Bowl, featuring frozen acai pulp topped with fresh fruit, shredded coconut, and organic honey. The Chilaquiles Rojos
or Verdes are filled with shredded panela cheese, tomatoes, onions, avocado slices, and sour cream, served with a choice of protein.
Their extensive juice bar serves a wide array of fresh juices and smoothies, boasting immune-boosting, energizing, and hydrating ingredients. And don’t miss out on their seasonal wine-based fruit cocktails, including the refreshing Dragon Fruit Margarita and the aromatic Lavender Martini.
Visit Ojo de Agua and embark on a culinary journey where flavor meets health in every bite.
Innovative, comprehensive, and evidence-based therapy services that build a strong foundation for children in all areas of development. By using a holistic and collaborative approach, we are able to tailor our services to support the child and family’s needs for successful participation in everyday life.
We offer FREE 30 minute consultations BOOK AN APPOINTMENT TODAY
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A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.
MAY 28TH - AUGUST 13TH
Houston Botanic Garden presents “Steve Tobin’s Intertwined: Exploring Nature’s Networks”
HOUSTON BOTANIC GARDEN, 1 BOTANIC LANE, HOUSTON, TX 77017 | 9:00 AM
This exhibition features monumental sculptures by the American artist, who is world-renowned for his works in glass, bronze, ceramic and steel, including “Trinity Root,” a memorial cast from a tree that protected a New York City cathedral on 9/11. Guests are encouraged to engage with the sculptures, wander beneath them and reflect on their own powerful roots of heritage, family and community. hbg.org
JULY 4TH
Freedom Over Texas Festival
ELEANOR TINSLEY PARK, 183600 ALLEN PKWY, HOUSTON, TX 77019 | 4:00 PM
Houston's Freedom Over Texas is a six-hour event featuring live concert stages along Allen Parkway. This annual July 4th celebration attracts an average of 50,000 attendees and includes local, regional, and national entertainment, culminating in a grand fireworks display. The event also supports the Houston Food Bank by donating a percentage of food and beverage sales. houstontx.gov
JULY 8TH
July 4th Freedom Run
HOUSTON
BUFFALO BAYOU TRAILS, HOUSTON TX 77001 | 7:30 AM
Celebrate July 4th weekend with a Freedom Run! Kick off the weekend with a fun 5K, 10K, or Half-Marathon with friends and family! 10%
CONTINUED >
EVENTS CONTINUED
of the net proceeds + 100% of the fundraising will go to Hope for the Warriors, a Non-Profit that provides comprehensive support programs for service members, veterans, and military families. eventrbrite.com
JULY 11TH - 15TH
TUTS: A Celebration of Houston Stories and Songs
MILLER OUTDOOR THEATRE, 6000 HERMANN PARK DR, HOUSTON, TX | 8:00 PM
Experience the magic of musical theatre at Miller Outdoor Theatre this summer. Celebrated Houston stars take the stage, performing iconic songs from TUTS history and modern Broadway hits. With live music, TUTS performers, and talented students, this 90-minute concert promises laughter, joy, and unforgettable performances. milleroutdoortheatre.com
JULY 22ND
Shania Twain Featuring Mickey Guyton
THE CYNTHIA WOODS MITCHELL PAVILION, 2005 LAKE ROBBINS DR, THE WOODLANDS, TX 77380 | 7:30 PM
Mickey Guyton is set to open for the renowned Shania Twain on an incredible tour. Fans can expect an evening filled with exceptional country music as these two talented artists take the stage. Be prepared to be captivated by Mickey's opening performance and Shania's iconic hits, creating a memorable concert experience you won't forget. woodlandscenter.org
JUL 28TH - 29TH
Star Wars: A New Hope in Concert
THE HOBBY CENTER, 800 BAGBY STREET HOUSTON, TX 77002 | 7:30 PM
Experience the iconic Star Wars: A New Hope like never before! Presented by the Houston Symphony, relive the magic of the 1977 classic as it projects on the big screen at the Hobby Center. Enjoy the legendary John Williams score performed live, from the 20th Century Fox Fanfare to the closing credits. houstonsymphony.org