River Oaks, TX June 2024

THE Men’s ISSUE

FOOD + BEVERAGE LEARN ABOUT RIDE & RIDDEN WINE TRAVEL EXPLORE THE SKIES WITH XO CELEBRATE 30 YEARS OF NOBU

Men Who Inspire Us

Welcome to our Annual Men’s Issue!  Last month we offered so many ways to celebrate the important women in our lives.  From artists to entrepreneurs, it’s time to pivot and show gratitude for the men and the dads who are making a difference all around us.  How do men inspire us in 2024? Let us count the ways!

1. Leading by example. Probably the most powerful way a man can make a difference is in leading by example. Whether it's showing kindness, being hardworking, or demonstrating perseverance, when a man embodies the qualities he wants to see in others, he becomes a role model.

2. Supporting and encouraging his family members. We see example after example of men who inspire their families by supporting and encouraging their children and partners in their dreams and aspirations. By being present, listening, and offering constructive feedback, men often help their family members achieve their goals.

3. Engaging in community service. A man can inspire his community by engaging in community service and causes that are near and dear to his heart. By volunteering his time and resources to local organizations or charities, he creates a legacy when he makes a positive impact and improves the lives of others.

4. Staying involved in his children's education. Dads can inspire their children and community by being involved in their children's education. Whether it's attending parent-teacher conferences, helping with homework, or volunteering at the school, these men regularly show their children the importance of education and help support the education system.

5. Encouraging healthy habits. A man can inspire his family and community by promoting healthy habits. Whether it's through exercise, healthy eating, or mindfulness practices, dads can encourage their family members and community to prioritize their health and well-being.

6. Advocating for important causes. So many men in our community inspire us by advocating for important causes such as social justice, environmental protection, or equality. By using their voice and resources to promote positive change, these same men often inspire others to do the same.

Let the special men and fathers in your life know how much they matter to you. And if you are a dad, let us be the first to say - thank you. You are invaluable to the people who know and need you as well as the community around you.

Happy Father’s Day!

June 2024

PUBLISHER

Suzanne Schakett | suzanne.schakett@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Gabi De la Rosa | gabi.delarosa@citylifestyle.com

SALES DIRECTOR

Suzanne Schakett | suzanne.schakett@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Kayla Shutts | kayla.shutts@citylifestyle.com

SALES SUPPORT COORDINATOR

Savannah Schakett

INTERN

Viviana De la Rosa

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Diane Cowen

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Josh Govero

LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray

SUZANNE SCHAKETT, PUBLISHER @RIVEROAKSLIFESTYLE

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN JUNE

city scene

1: Rachel Bagwell, Julia Morales at the Bayou Bend fashion show and luncheon. 2: Julia Morales, Twila Carter, Treopia Cannon at Girls Inc. luncheon that raised a record-breaking $400,000. 3: Kurt Krolikowski, Aparna Dave, Alex Lazar, Travis Torrence, Heath LaPray, and Tia Shorty at the Alley Theatre gala. 4: Kara McCullers, Samatha Tucker, Pam Espada, Lindsey Kessinger, Kat Pressly, Reagan Bregman, Alexandra Rich at Girls Inc. 5: Whitney Crane and Kate Upton at the Bayou Bend fashion show and luncheon. 6: Ryan and Kat Pressly at the Girls Inc luncheon that Kat chaired with her mother Sue. 7: Hallie Vanderhider chaired a record-setting Memorial Hermann gala.

WILSON PARISH

WILSON PARISH

WILSON PARISH

WILSON PARISH

JOHNNY THAN

JACOB POWER

8: Houston interior designer Teri Pugh was honored as a Leader in Design by Houston Design District. 9: Stuart Rae, honoree Micqui McGowen, and Karen Yoder at Houston Design District’s Leaders in Design event. 10: Diane Cowen with honorees Cathy Chapman, Teri Pugh, Rainey Richardson, Connie LeFevre, and Micqui McGowen. 11: Jessica Chapman, Taylor Chapman, honoree Cathy Chapman, Hillary Jordan, and Kate Feinstein at the Leaders in Design event. 12: Hailey Olmedo, Casey Brand, Fatima Rivas, and Linda Mangold. 13: Karen Black and Kenneth Kelly at Houston Design District’s Leaders in Design party. 14: Jimmy Keathley and Leaders in Design honoree Connie LeFevre. Photography by Cecelia Haneine

business monthly

Hastens' $1 million Grand Vividus Bed Makes its River Oaks Debut

172-year-old Swedish luxury bed maker Hästens unveiled the  Grand Vividus bed set, the world's most expensive bed, in its new River Oaks District outpost. Priced at $1 million and representing a collaboration with designer Ferris Rafauli, the complete structure (Grand Vividus mattress, headboard and bed frame) is perfection perfected and now exclusively on display at Hästens’ recently opened Houston showroom.

Home Run Dugout Announces Expansion Following First Year Success

Breaking ground in April, the venue will add 9,242-square-feet, including 10 new indoor Batting Bays™, bringing the total to 22, which all include HRD’s proprietary, state-of-the-art pitching technology. Each bay features a 20x15 foot screen and five TVs, allowing players to track not only hitting stats, but be in control of any sporting event or other programming they want to watch. The new building can also be configured to accommodate large gatherings, including corporate events, birthday parties, graduation celebrations, client entertainment, and more.

Kendra Scott Collaborates with LoveShackFancy

Concepted by the lauded female founders Kendra Scott, founder of the namesake brand, and Rebecca Hessel Cohen of LoveShackFancy, the limited-edition six-piece capsule collection shares a love of romantic styling and is designed to add a pop of everyday joy to jewelry boxes everywhere. The collection features Kendra Scott’s iconic Elisa and Ari styles, adorned with feminine flourishes and innovative hand-illustrated floral motifs, alongside signature LoveShackFancy bows crafted in 14k gold over brass.

Photography Courtesy of Hastens

Photography by Alex Montoya

Photography Courtesy of Kendra Scott

Dr. Katya Kulic

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.

Want to suggest a monthly pick?

Gym

The Preserve thepreservehouston.com | 713.572.2555

River Oaks Gym riveroaksgym.com | 713.528.4600

Quality Life Fitness qualitylifefitnesshouston.com | 713.621.4300

ONESWEAT onesweat.com | 713.239.2676

Equinox equinox.com | 281.936.0963

Mens' Clothing Store

M Penner mpenner.com | 713.527.8200

Festari For Men festariformen.com | 713.626.1234

BALANI Custom Suits Houston balanicustom.com | 713.832.0260

Bzach Clothier bzachclothier.com | 713.497.5597

Mark's Clothiers marksclothiers.com | 713.465.6428

BELIEVE THE HYPE

ARTICLE BY RIVER OAKS LIFESTYLE STAFF PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF NOBU

Celebrating its 30th anniversary, Nobu is still an icon in the culinary world, shaping and leading with its distinct approach to dining. The core of Nobu's success can be attributed to the "Nobu Way," a philosophy that consistently exceeds diners' expectations, emphasizing toptier ingredients, Omakase offerings, and immersive chefdriven experiences. This commitment has seen Nobu grow into a global powerhouse, boasting 52 restaurants worldwide, including 19 under the Nobu Hotels banner, which has solidified its international presence.

Nobu's classic dishes like Yellowtail Jalapeno and Black Cod with Butter Lettuce are not only enjoyed worldwide, they have become synonymous with culinary excellence. The brand's unique blend of traditional Japanese techniques and innovative preparations ensures a consistently high standard of craftsmanship in every dish.

"Nobu is not just me — it's also my team. I have strong teams who I have spent years working with and educating personally. They go out and teach everyone my philosophy for good food and good service, so we are all working

Wagyu Flambe

towards the same goal," says the chef. "I also spend most of the year traveling to visit my teams and am constantly reinforcing my philosophy. We are very hands-on and because of that our quality and standards are consistent."

Nobu has made a distinct mark on the dining scene in Houston by infusing Texan flavors into its menu while staying true to its Asian-inspired roots. This approach has allowed Nobu Houston to stand out amidst a wave of Japanese concepts, offering sensory dining experiences, quality ingredients, and exclusive chef interactions that tell a compelling culinary story. Chefs Eiji and Joe's innovative menu development showcases traditional Japanese techniques, creating memorable flavor combinations that resonate with Houston's discerning diners. noburestaurants.com

What’s next for Nobu?

• Chef collaborations, sushi classes, and getting involved with more community events are a few things guests can look forward to.

• Nobu would love to create a chef series and collaborate with local chefs who specialize in a different cuisine to create a pre-fixe menu paired with cocktails while highlighting Nobu QUI Tequila.

Chef Nobu celebrates 30 years of culinary excellence worldwide.

Chef Nobu. Photo by Evan Sung

Nobu Tacos

RIDE & RIDDEN WINE SHOWCASES THE POWER AND GRACE OF THE TRUE AMERICAN WEST.

What started as a thirty-year friendship became a well-regarded wine brand based on the unlikely pairing of cabernet sauvignon and rodeo. Made by a female Dallasborn winemaker, Remington Jorgensen, with art from a Texas-based artist, Steve Wrubel, Ride & Ridden is infused with the best of what the Lone Star State offers.  David Green, founder and partner of Ride & Ridden Wine Co., has spent over 25 years in the wine industry. As the owner

ARTICLE BY GABI DE LA ROSA PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF RIDE & RIDDEN WINE CO.

Ride & Ridden wine is made by Dallas-born female winemaker Remington Jorgensen.

of Royal Wine & Spirits, he knew he wanted to bring a California cabernet to the most extensive domestic wine market in the United States – Texas. With vast industry knowledge, he knew that the Texan love of big things, including the bold flavors of a cabernet, would lend itself to a lasting brand.

Friends since they were 19, Green and Wrubel went their separate ways after college but remained in touch over the years. After graduating from Berkeley, Wrubel returned to school and got a Master's degree in photography. He spent over 25 years developing his art in many applications before discovering rodeo in 2019 after watching the short film Try

and Love. Wrubel says that after watching the movie, he traded his sedan for a Ford pickup truck, looked up the closest rodeo, grabbed his cameras, and dove headfirst into the world of rodeo.

Since then, he has become well known for his beautiful images of cowboys, bucking broncos, and bull riders. He says focusing his lens on fine art and rodeo is "one of the best decisions he ever made." Wrubel fell in love with everything about the sport, from the drive between rodeos to the people, and the thrill he gets up close to the action.

"There is nothing like the adrenaline I feel when standing in the dirt waiting

Each bottle of Ride & Ridden wine features the art of Steve Wrubel.

“Cabernet is king and there’s no greater domestic wine market in the US than Texas.” – David Green Founder and Partner, Ride & Ridden Wine Co.

for that bucking horse to explode from the chute. Maintaining my composure while that dynamo comes flying at me is like nothing I've ever experienced," says Wrubel. "It's where I thrive – creatively, that is it. The goodness, toughness, and humility of the people I meet make it all worthwhile and keep me coming back."

While Wrubel was making a name for himself in the art world, Green was thinking about launching a new wine brand. He saw one of Wrubel's rodeo photographs and knew right away that he had to reconnect with his friend.

"Seeing his Let's Ride imagery gobsmacked me, I had a very visceral and emotional connection to it immediately," says

Green. "I pulled out my phone, called him and said, 'We need to use these images on a wine brand now!'"

The friends both saw something powerful in Western-inspired iconography, and the idea of Ride & Ridden came to fruition. The duo spent a lot of time pondering the brand at Wrubel's family home on the Silverado Trail in Napa Valley. Wrubel recounts how they came up with the name four years ago while eating and drinking under a fig tree against the backdrop of the Western skies.

"I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished with this idea—the recognition of Ride & Ridden in the rodeo world

and Western culture is beyond what I ever expected," says Wrubel.

Available at H.E.B. and Central Market and ranging in price between $23 to $45, Green deliberately keeps his wine under the $50 price point. Focusing on the premier wine regions of Napa Valley, Paso Robles, and Sonoma County, Ride & Ridden has received accolades for both its value and tasting notes. Green says the wines pair well with everything from brisket tacos to spaghetti bolognese and flat iron steak frites.

After all, there is nothing like a good taco and great cabernet to bring out the cowboy in all of us. rideandridden.com

Ride & Ridden founder David Green and artist Steve Wrubel.

ARTICLE BY GABI DE LA ROSA PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF KATAMI

INSIDER’S GUIDE TO UNDERSTANDING SAKE

Ben Wendt, Certified Sake Sommelier at Katami, shares insight into the Japanese drink.

1. WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMON TYPES OF SAKE?

The most common sake is futsushu (table sake). Your everyday drinking sake is inexpensive and can be consumed early and often. Sake is becoming more readily available and I believe many different styles of sake will become popular.

2. IS THERE A PROPER DRINKING GLASS FOR SAKE, AND WHY?

For more delicate sakes, you can use a burgundy wine glass to help it open up and announce its arrival, but for most sakes, any all-purpose wine glass is perfect.

3. WHAT ARE YOUR CURRENT SAKE FAVORITES AT KATAMI?

Watari Bune 55 is a dryer-style sake with rice that was brought back from extinction about 20 years ago. Mountain Warrior Doburoku is 100% unfiltered in the way sake was made thousands of years ago. Equilibrium by Daishinsyu is their flagship bottle. It is expensive but well worth the price.

“At Katami, we have specialized sake stemware that allows our guests to explore all the characters and notes of the sake they are drinking.”

4. WHICH SAKE SHOULD BE SERVED WARM AND WHICH SHOULD BE SERVED COLD?

I believe that junmai ginjo and junmai daiginjo sake should be served chilled to lightly cold to preserve their delicate floral and fruity aromas while highlighting the texture and body of these more premium sakes. Futsushu (table sake), honjozo, and tokubetsu can be served warm to enhance their unique texture and flavors.

5. ARE THERE RULES FOR PAIRING SAKE WITH FOOD?

When pairing food with sake, there are two concepts to remember. Firstly sake can intensify and even bring out hidden flavors of the ingredients in the food, enhancing their taste. Secondly, sake can refresh the palate and prepare it for

the next bite. A simple way to pair sake with food is to match the aromas and intensity of flavors, contrast flavors to bring out deeper notes, and finally match the age of the dish (aged steaks go well with aged sake). katamihouston.com

Discover an enchanting River Oaks estate reminiscent of English countryside castles. Nestled on over 2 acres, this romantic sanctuary boasts finely proportioned interiors, limestone-carved stone arches, and Cotswold-imported flooring.

800+ bottle wine cellar

Pub-style billiard room

State-of-the-art theatre

Tudor parterre gardens

Disappearing fountains

Corner lot location

nanproperties.com

HOUSTON’S MEN OF INFLUENCE

ARTICLE BY RIVER OAKS LIFESTYLE STAFF

FROM THEIR ENTREPRENEURIAL SKILLS AND UNMATCHED ABILITIES, MEET FOUR MEN MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN HOUSTON.

Brian White

Personal Injury Attorney Years in Business: 16

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO START YOUR OWN BUSINESS?

I decided to start my law firm representing injured people due to a hard-working, entrepreneurial spirit and identifying a market need for the type of legal services that I provide. I recognize the need for a firm that gets great results on a few flagship cases and has stable and happy staff to obtain excellent results and customer service for all cases. Our approach to handling cases is fighting for every last dollar, and our approach to providing exceptional customer service is comprehensive.

WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN FIVE YEARS? TEN?

In five years, we see ourselves as Houston’s largest personal injury law firm (we are already almost there). In ten years, we will be in multiple cities and possibly multiple states.

HOW DO YOU SET YOUR BUSINESS APART FROM OTHERS IN YOUR INDUSTRY?

We call it “Radical Customer Service.” It is our goal to create “fans.” We treat people the opposite way a doctor’s office receptionist treats waiting patients. Customer service begins with a full explanation of the different ways to communicate with our office and ensuring there are no misunderstandings ahead of time. We have many situations where we have rejected cases because they don’t meet our intake requirements, only to have that same person hire us or recommend us to friends and family based on the initial interaction.

attorneybrianwhite.com

Matthew Bell CEO and Founder, The Shop Club and

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO START YOUR OWN BUSINESS?

It’s a combination of my dad’s influence and a crazy idea. After my father’s untimely passing, I decided to move back to the States, write a business plan, and realize my dreams. I processed my grief into pushing fully toward my deeply held yet unrealized goals of creating a consumer business with a dynamic community.

HOW DO YOU SET YOUR BUSINESS APART FROM OTHERS IN YOUR INDUSTRY?

A big part of The Shop Club is the community, which feels like a place where you want to belong. I have been to cool clubs worldwide, but they weren’t places for automotive enthusiasts or places I wanted to spend time. I didn’t want it to be stuffy or uptight, but rather a place where members can interact with cars and the people who love them. I wanted to change the model and have a place centered around food and beverage with no food and beverage minimums.

WHAT WOULD YOU CHANGE ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY IF YOU COULD GO BACK?

Not a darn thing! I believe you are a product of your successes and failures. My dad’s passing and starting a company from scratch taught me that time is precious. Now, when I have a lightbulb moment, I am more determined to execute, no matter what it is or what it takes.

theshopclubs.com

“Huemn is more than just a wellness destination—it’s a testament to our commitment to empowering individuals to live their healthiest, most vibrant lives.”

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO START YOUR OWN BUSINESS?

With an engineering background, I followed my passion for healthy living and helping others feel their best. Recognizing the gap between traditional medicine and holistic wellness, I founded Huemn. Despite my engineering roots, my heart has always been focused on promoting well-being.

HOW DO YOU SET YOUR BUSINESS APART FROM OTHERS IN YOUR INDUSTRY?

What distinguishes Huemn from other wellness establishments is our unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation. Unlike franchises that often prioritize cost-cutting measures by opting for cheaper equipment, we invest in premium, stateof-the-art technology to ensure the highest quality experience for our clients.

At Huemn, we believe in staying ahead of the curve, constantly evolving, and introducing cutting-edge equipment and modalities. For instance, we take pride in being the first in Houston to offer the revolutionary Red Light and Near Infrared bed, providing our clients access to the latest advancements in holistic wellness. Our Oxygen Nano Float, exclusive to Huemn and the only one in the United States, exemplifies our commitment to pushing boundaries and offering unparalleled experiences that can’t be found anywhere else.

Ultimately, what truly sets us apart is our relentless pursuit of excellence. Huemn is more than just a wellness destination—it’s a testament to our commitment to empowering individuals to live their healthiest, most vibrant lives.

behuemn.com

Bill Hanks  CEO/Founder, Huemn

Years in business: 8

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO BECOME A PERFORMER?

My journey as a performer began at a young age when I discovered the joy of singing. From Armenian folk songs to classical music, my love for music has always been unwavering. Choosing to pursue singing professionally was a natural decision driven by my passion.

WHAT ROUTINES DO YOU FOLLOW EACH DAY?

Every day brings its rhythm, and as a performer, I’ve learned to embrace the spontaneity that comes with it. While I have many interests beyond music, from cycling and swimming to hitting the gym and playing tennis, finding time for each is challenging.

WHAT HAVE BEEN SOME OF YOUR MOST SIGNIFICANT LEARNING EXPERIENCES AS A PERFORMER?

As a performer, every moment is a learning experience, both on stage and in life. Each day offers new insights and challenges that contribute to my artistic and individual growth. Whether mastering a difficult piece or navigating the industry’s complexities, I embrace every opportunity to evolve and improve.

Years on stage: 8

houstongrandopera.org

Navasard Hakobyan

Sarah and Ernest Butler Studio Artist, Houston Grand Opera

$10/UNIT OF BOTOX

NONSURGICAL FACELIFT | BODY CONTOURING

LIP, CHIN, & JAWLINE ENHANCEMENTS

BOTOX & DYSPORT | PRP FACIALS

PLATELET-RICH PLASMA (PRP) HAIR RESTORATION

SKIN REJUVENATION (ACNE SCARRING, HYPERPIGMENTATION, FINE LINES, AND WRINKLES)

MEDICAL GRADE SKIN CARE | HYDRAFACIALS

montrosemedspa.com

713.485.5027

2505 Dunlavy St, Houston, Tx V @montrosemedspa

A life and career of grand gesture

KELLY GALE AMEN CREATES FURNITURE, TEXTILES AND, NOW, DELICATE PASHMINAS

ARTICLE BY DIANE COWEN

Pillars encased in limestone and a natural stone floor bring a sense of place to the foyer of this home designed by Kelly Gale Amen. Photo by Sergio Santos

Kelly Gale Amen’s life is full of grand gestures, but his work is admired for the simplicity with which he approaches clients’ needs.

They want to keep a favorite brown sofa or have stacks of books they can’t live without. Amen will make it work. He can change the energy in a room by adding color or shifting in furniture, hanging new art and mirrors or placing a new rug or art.

The Oklahoma native who came to Houston in 1972 to work at Foley’s, quickly shifted to self-employment as an interior designer when a couple asked him to decorate their home. They were his first clients and he’s been busy ever since.

“I love the process of using things for different purposes,” said Amen, the newest inductee to the Houston Design District’s Leaders in Design. “When I interview clients, I don’t tell them what to spend. I want to flip what they already have and let the client tell me what they don’t want to keep.”

He has a generous heart and gives to many nonprofits, including AIDS Foundation Houston, the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, General Stafford Space Museum, of which he was a founding member, and Cancer Below the Belt, which he founded 8 or 9 years ago. Amen is a longtime prostate cancer survivor.

He designs furniture, textiles and pillows and is launching a new line of cashmere and pashmina scarves and shawls that show off fabric patterns he has created for upholstery fabric. The first batch launches in May,  and he expects the collection to grow from its initial offerings of soft woven pashminas to include some with extensive embroidery.

It’s a partnership he’s doing with Amjid Salama, the son of his longtime tailor in Kashmir, India, K. Salama & Sons, where he’s had dozens of waistcoats custom-made.

“I’m here to let people embrace what life is. Who are you now? What do you need to get rid of and what do you want to keep?”

- Kelly Gale Amen

Kelly Gale Amen of KGA Design is the newest inductee into the Houston Design District’s Leaders In Design program.

Photo by Iraq Ghavidel

Members have a choice of over 2400 private aircraft covering the full spectrum of cabin classes.

HIGH AND MIGHTY

ARTICLE BY RIVER OAKS LIFESTYLE STAFF

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF XO

XO makes summer travel a breeze with a fleet of more than 2,400 aircraft.

Upgrade your summer travel experience with XO, a private jet company. Unlike regular ride-share services, XO offers access to a vast network of over 2,400 aircraft for a luxurious journey, including the Bombardier Global 7500 (The Ferrari of the Ski), the world's fastest and longest-range business jet.

With XO, you're in control of your travel plans. Members enjoy the freedom to charter entire planes, share flights with others, or book individual seats on scheduled routes. While membership brings discounts, anyone can book through XO's mobile app or website, and phone support is available as well.

XO's flights cover global destinations, ensuring you can reach your desired location hassle-free. Scheduled routes link major cities like New York and Los Angeles to popular vacation spots such as South Florida, the Hamptons, Aspen, and Las Vegas. Prices vary based on destination, aircraft type, timing, and membership status. XO makes it easy to fly by eliminating long lines at the airport. Members use private terminals, so arriving and jetting off on their next vacation can be done in less than an hour. Embrace the luxury of XO this summer and turn your travel dreams into reality. flyxo.com

Flyers can book an entire aircraft or individual seats through the XO mobile app, website, or an XO aviation advisor.

Defender 110 X-Dynamic

ARTICLE BY SUSAN LANIER-GRAHAM PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

ADVENTURE AWAITS IN A REIMAGINED LAND ROVER CLASSIC

Land Rover has managed to reimagine a classic in a masterful way. The new Land Rover Defender 110 X-Dynamic SE is ideal whether you’re heading out for a day off-roading, or making a quick run to pick up groceries or the kids from school. The Defender offers an unmatched exterior, extreme durability, best-in-class capability, and stunning technology.

INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR FEATURES

The Defender 110 X-Dynamic SE featured a sliding panoramic roof, automatic headlight leveling, and keyless entry. The all-terrain tires will take you easily over the roughest terrain. Inside, you’ll love the 12-way heated and cooled electric memory leather front seats. You’ll enjoy entertainment on the go with the 10-inch Touchscreen, interactive driver display, and Meridian Sound System 400W with 10 speakers and a subwoofer.

UNPARALLELED PERFORMANCE

The Defender is engineered and tested to the extreme. According to Land Rover, is it the “toughest and strongest vehicle ever” and has undergone rigorous testing.  If you want to head off-the-grid, Defender is ready. It has a 370-lb. dynamic roof load and a 661-lb. static load. It can tow up to 7,716 lbs. with the Advanced Tow Assist. The electro winch has a maximum pulling force of 10,000 lbs., operated via remote control.

MSRP: $72,000

Price as tested: $87,973 17 MPG city/20 MPG highway

Elevate Your Lifestyle. Beyond Expectations, Every Moment.

Seamless Luxury Experiences Await –from Complimentary Walkthroughs for Effortless Planning to High-End Rentals of Unrivaled Quality. Our Commitment is to Personalized Customer Service with the highest standards.

"Foundations has been a game changer for our family. Their team has an innate ability to connect with children, making sessions engaging and fun, while still targeting essential skills. Their approach has resulted in noticeable progress in my child’s daily life. We are beyond grateful for their expertise and compassion, and I wholeheartedly recommend them to any parent seeking the best in pediatric therapy."

- Karen R.

ARTICLE BY MEGAN HOBAN

The Art of Collecting

As consumers, we are constantly being enticed to buy. Whether it’s the jewelry we can’t live without, concert tickets to a show we don’t want to miss, or that favorite pair of shoes calling our name, we buy what we love, and art should be no different.

If you are new to acquiring original art, you may find it daunting, but it shouldn’t be. It is a special purchase that forces you to dig deep and discover a bit more about yourself. At first, many people shy away from buying original art because of the commitment. It’s a big decision after all, and how do you really know when it’s the “perfect” piece? Because art is subjective, part of the process is learning what style of art is the best fit for you. Is it colorful and energetic abstracts, or soothing landscapes that catch your eye? Maybe you are drawn to local photography, or even figurative works. There is no wrong answer, and maybe it’s a mix of several styles that creates your unique collection. The best way to find out your “art personality” is to get out and visit your local galleries. Consider making it a tradition to visit galleries while traveling or buy a piece of art as a gift on special occasions. In the gallery setting you can explore various art styles, mediums, and even learn more about the talented artists who create those works.

With the purchase of original art comes other considerations. Often, we have clients who need direction figuring out what size of art they need and its placement in the design of their space. If you find a piece of art you love, you will always find a spot for it. Ask the gallery if they offer in-home art consultation services to see the piece in your setting. Great custom framing is key, and well-designed framing is the jewelry to a great piece of art. Quality archival framing protects your art from UV rays that can damage a piece over time. Original art should last generations.

I’m often asked, should I buy art for investment? There is a place for investment art, but I don’t believe in buying art with the pretense that it will go up in value. There is no guarantee it will and to me, good investment art brings different riches to your life. Art that brings you joy, adds personality to your space, and makes your home original is an investment in you. The best art investment should be the feeling you experience gazing into an oil painting that perfectly captures a warm sunset over the prairie, or the texture created by a palette knife on the abstract that seems to pop off the canvas. That is what makes investing in original art priceless.

Art that brings you joy, adds personality to your space, and makes your home original is an investment in you.

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

JUNE 2ND

Livingston Memorial Cup presented by The Fitzpatrick Group

Houston Polo Club | 5:30 PM

Experience a world class polo match, player parade, live music, expert announcing, polo trivia contest, traditional champagne divot stomp at halftime and special trophy presentation. THE LYMBAR is the onsite concession serving a delicious Argentine/Brazilian inspired menu choices and a premium bar menu.

JUNE 2ND

Houston Symphony presents: Strauss Festival

Jones Hall | 2:30 PM

Envision flower-filled meadows, sparkling glaciers, and a breathtaking view from the summit when Music Director Juraj Valčuha leads one of the natural wonders of the music world, Strauss’s  An Alpine Symphony. A monumental subject like the Alps can only be expressed through equally mighty orchestral forces, and a staggering 125 musicians will fill Jones Hall.

JUNE 3RD

The Wine Rendezvous Grand Tasting & Chef Showcase

Woodlands Waterway Marriott | 7:00 PM

Celebrating 20 years as one of the region’s top culinary and wine events, Wine & Food Week returns June 3-9 with A Gem of a Celebration. For wine and food lovers, this event is an absolute must. Fan favorites include Wine Around the World Wednesday; Get Frosted at Rose’ Way; Ladies of the Vine Tasting, and Sips, Suds & Savor.

JUNE 15TH

Flea by Night presented by Green Mountain Energy

Discovery Green | 8:00 PM

Discovery Green helps Houstonians shop local at Flea by Night supported by Green Mountain Energy. Set in the park’s vibrant green space in the heart of downtown and along Avenida de las Americas, Flea by Night is an open-air market featuring local artisans and small business owners selling vintage, handmade, recycled, repurposed and local goods.

JUNE 15TH

Father's Day Weekend Cigar Rolling

Back Table Kitchen & Bar | 5:00 PM

local business owners, we offer two publications to showcase your brand with the most affluent homeowners in these specific communities:

Join Back Table Kitchen & Bar for an unforgettable evening that combines the art of cigar rolling with the exquisite taste of fine whiskey. Celebrate Dad early this year at Back Table Kitchen & Bar on June 15, where we offer a unique experience designed to delight and impress.

JUNE 15TH

Houston Symphony presents: The Music of Abba

Sarofim Hall | 7:30 PM

Take a chance on this ABBA-tastic night as the acapella group Rajaton join the Houston Symphony to thank the iconic disco pop sensations for the music! Featuring all the hits you know and love, from Dancing Queen to Waterloo (and many, many more) don your bell bottoms and your platforms and don't let this fabulous evening slip through your fingers.