Issuu

Style Issue S E P TE M B E R 2 02 6

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Make a Statement!

September 2026 PUBLISHER

Angi Burns | angi.burns@citylifestyle.com

There's something powerful about walking into a room and immediately noticing style that isn't trying to blend in. Maybe it's the bold jacket, the perfectly tailored suit, a pair of vintage boots, or a vibrant lipstick. Maybe it's a home with an unexpected front door color or a living room that feels effortlessly elegant because it reflects the people who live there instead of the latest trend. The best style always makes a statement. Not because it's loud, but because it's authentic. This month, we're celebrating style in all its forms, from fashion and beauty to architecture, interior design, and the spaces we create for the people we love. While trends come and go, true style has never been about following the crowd. It's about having the confidence to express who you are. I love seeing that confidence throughout our community. It's the local boutique owner who helps someone discover the outfit that makes them feel unstoppable. The interior designer who transforms a house into a reflection of a family's personality. The craftsman who believes every detail matters. The artist who sees color where others see a blank canvas. They all have one thing in common: they're creating something memorable. And isn't that what we're all trying to do? Every day, we make choices that tell our story. The way we dress for an important meeting. The way we welcome guests into our home. The way we present our business. Even the way we care for ourselves sends a message before we ever say a word. What statement are you making? I hope this issue inspires you to think beyond what's fashionable and instead embrace what feels true to you. Wear the color you've always been afraid to try. Add the piece of art that makes you smile every time you walk by. Refresh a room. Reinvent a look. Support the local businesses that help bring your vision to life. After all, style isn't about impressing other people. It's about creating a life that feels uniquely your own. Here's to making a statement that is unmistakably yours.

E D I TO R

Deborah Dove | debie.dove@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R I AL C O O R D I N ATO R

Valerie Merrick | valerie.merrick@citylifestyle.com P U B L I CAT I O N D I R E C TO R

Kathy Moreno | kathy.moreno@citylifestyle.com S O C I AL M E D I A C O O R D I N ATO R

Jennifer Dartez | jennifer.dartez@citylifestyle.com STAF F W R I T E R S

Deborah Dove, Valerie Merrick, Avery Ballmann STAF F P H OTO G R AP H E R S

Adeline Merrick: Merrick Multimedia, Ty Harper Photography, Joseph Rivers: Jay Sonata Photography CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Tiffany Storm, Roxanne Carne, Stacy Leach, Allison Bankston, Patti Faulhaber C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S

Derek Price: Celebrate Media Group, Patti Faulhaber

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry CRO Jamie Pentz CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

ANGI BURNS, PUBLISHER @ R O C K WA L LC I T Y L I F E S T Y L E Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Rockwall City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Rockwall area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle

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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 Rockwall City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

inside the issue SE PTE M B E R 2 02 6 | STYL E

20 Featured

20 24 28

Print Prestige Meets Digital Power.

WHY CHOOSE BETWEEN PRESTIGE AND PLACEMENT?

Departments

Workin’ It

Young Professional Fashion Fit for the Perfect Pitch to the Happiest Hour

Styled by Confidence

Carolyn Jesmer Helps Merle Norman Rockwall Clients Discover Beauty That’s Uniquely Their Own

Hair = Style

Four Tips to Prolong Your Blowout from Blo Blowdry Bar

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Back Stage LIFE + CULTURE

Giving Back LIFE + CULTURE

Local Limelight LIFE + CULTURE

Trend Setter SHOPPING

Fashion Forward STYLE + BEAUTY

Hair Care BEAUTY

Must See STYLE + BEAUTY

Happy Hour FOOD + BEVERAGE

Events

On the Cover Young professional fashion can be fun and unique — don't shy away from playful textures. | Model: Floyd | Stylist: Roxanne Carne Photography: Adeline Merrick: Merrick Multimedia

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SEPTEMBER 2026

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

7 6

1-14: The Rockwall Area Chamber of Commerce’s New Partner Showcase at Hidden Creek welcomed the Chamber’s newest members while highlighting the importance of supporting local small businesses. The event gave attendees the opportunity to meet entrepreneurs, discover new products and services, build valuable relationships, and strengthen connections within the local business community. By investing in Chamber members and shopping local, the Rockwall community continues to foster economic growth and create opportunities for businesses of all sizes to thrive.

C I T Y SC E N E

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DON' T T E L L M A M A B A ND TWENTY YEARS OF MUSIC, MEMORIES, AND BRINGING PEOPLE TOGETHER

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY PATTI FAULHABER

B ACK STAGE | L I FE + C ULT U RE

For nearly two decades, the Don't Tell Mama Band has been proving that great music has the power to unite people. Since its founding in 2006 by husbandand-wife team Glenn and Maria Lightford, the Dallas/Fort Worth-based band has grown into one of North Texas' premier live entertainment acts, earning a loyal following through exceptional musicianship, high-energy performances, and a commitment to creating memorable experiences for every audience. Together, Glenn and Maria built Don't Tell Mama from a shared passion for music and a vision of creating a professional band that would deliver the timeless

songs people love while making every guest feel welcome. Glenn, the band's trumpet player and vocalist, and Maria, whose talents on percussion, flute, and vocals bring another layer of artistry to the group, have worked side by side as equal partners, both musically and in building the band's success. Their collaboration has been the foundation of Don't Tell Mama's longevity and continued growth. Over the years, Don't Tell Mama has evolved into an impressive 11-piece ensemble known for its outstanding musicianship, dynamic vocals, and versatile performances. Their expansive repertoire spans more than six decades of music, featuring Motown, R&B, funk, soul, disco, classic rock, country, Latin, jazz, and today's Top 40 favorites. From weddings and corporate events to festivals, nonprofit galas, and private celebrations, the band delivers a full-production experience featuring powerful vocals, talented musicians, and a signature horn section that keeps audiences engaged from the first song to the final note. At the heart of Don't Tell Mama is a belief that music belongs to everyone. Their performances are designed to bring people together regardless of age, race, gender, or economic background. The band's diverse song selection creates a shared experience where multiple generations can celebrate together, dance together, and enjoy the universal connection that only live music can create. Whether performing for a large crowd or an intimate gathering, Don't Tell Mama creates an atmosphere where everyone feels included. The band's continued success is also fueled by its exceptional lineup of talented performers. Lead vocalist Joi Mei Clark brings powerful vocals and a commanding stage presence, while newest member Kera Lee adds fresh energy, soulful vocals, and a vibrant personality that complements the band's dynamic

sound. Her addition represents an exciting new chapter as Don't Tell Mama continues to evolve while staying true to the musical traditions that have made them a North Texas favorite. The current lineup includes founders Glenn Lightford (trumpet and vocals) and Maria Lightford (percussion, flute, and vocals); lead vocalists Joi Mei Clark and Kera Lee; Borden Byrd (guitar and vocals); James Martin (bass guitar); Blake McElroy (drums and vocals); Jim Collins (keyboards and vocals); Rich Wonders (trombone, guitar, and vocals); Jack Rowland (trumpet and vocals); and Taylor Duty (saxophone and vocals). Supporting every performance behind the scenes are Jim Duty, the band's sound engineer, and Charles Clark, the dedicated roadie who helps ensure each show runs smoothly. As Glenn and Maria continue leading the band into its next chapter, their mission remains the same: create unforgettable live entertainment that celebrates connection, community, and the joy of music. To book Don't Tell Mama Band or view upcoming performances, visit www.DTMBandDallas.org for show schedules, videos, and contact information.

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My Sister's Closet Nonprofit of the Month Sponsored by Artisan Masonry and Granite Style is about more than fashion. It tells a story, reflects values, and has the power to express who we are. At Women In Need (WIN), style takes on an even greater meaning, proving that what no longer serves one person can become a fresh start for someone else. For more than 40 years, Women In Need has been a place of safety, hope, and healing for survivors of domestic violence. As the area's only emergency shelter, WIN provides more than a safe place to stay. The organization offers legal advocacy, support groups, prevention education, a food pantry, financial assistance, a 24-hour hotline, and crisis intervention. Through these services and ongoing community outreach, WIN helps individuals and families rebuild their lives with confidence, hope, and the support they need to move forward. Every day, WIN walks alongside survivors as they take courageous steps toward a life free from abuse. Whether helping someone obtain a protective order, providing a safe place to go in the middle of the night, or providing healthy relationship education in our schools and community, the organization is committed to breaking cycles of violence while creating safer and stronger communities.

ARTICLE BY TIFFANY STORM | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF DEREK PRICE: CELEBRATE MEDIA GROUP

G IV IN G BAC K | L I FE + C ULT U RE

One of the many ways local supporters help make this work possible is through My Sister's Closet, WIN's resale stores located in Greenville, Commerce, and Quinlan. While many know the stores as great places to find affordable clothing, furniture, home décor, and unique treasures, every purchase supports the life-changing services WIN provides. More importantly, clients receiving services through WIN can shop with vouchers, allowing them to choose clothing, furniture, and household essentials as they rebuild their lives with confidence and a renewed sense of independence. The heart of this mission begins with generosity. Clothing, shoes, furniture, home décor, kitchen items, books, toys, and other gently used household goods all have the potential to change a life. An outfit can boost someone’s confidence at a job interview. A dining table can become the centerpiece of a family's first safe home. A child's bed or bookshelf can help create comfort after unimaginable uncertainty. Every donation tells someone, "Your community believes in

Image Courtesy of WIN

your future." Behind every donated item is an opportunity to restore hope. For many survivors, starting over means replacing nearly everything they left behind. A closet filled with clothing, a furnished apartment, or a child's favorite book may seem ordinary to some, but to someone beginning again, they represent stability, comfort, and the promise of a brighter future. WIN invites readers to think about style in a different way. True style isn't only about what we choose to wear. It is also about how we choose to care for one another. When we give with intention, shop with purpose, or volunteer our time, we become part of a story much greater than ourselves.

Image Courtesy of WIN

Every act of generosity has the power to change a life. Whether you're donating clothing or furniture, shopping at My Sister's Closet, volunteering your time, or simply learning more about the work of Women In Need, you become part of someone's journey from crisis to hope. Donations of gently used clothing, furniture, home décor, and household items can be dropped off at the WIN Donation Center, located at 904 N Goliad St., Rockwall, TX 75087. If you'd like to see firsthand how your support creates lasting impact, join us for WIN With Us on Tuesday, September 22, at the Rockwall County Library, 1215 E Yellowjacket Ln., Rockwall, TX 75087. This free community engagement event offers an opportunity to connect with our team, learn about our services, and discover meaningful ways to get involved. To learn more, visit www.WINTexas.org.

Image Courtesy of WIN

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Sky

Sadie

Sky and Sadie Meet Challenges with Resilience

STUDENTS OF THE MONTH ARTICLE BY VALERIE MERRICK | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF CORINNA SLAMONS

Local students Sky and Sadie Slamons are each facing health challenges, but they don’t let it get them down. Each sister works hard to model compassion and grit each day, both in class and in afterschool activities. As they start the new school year in seventh and third grades, respectively, mom Corinna shares how proud she is of each daughter. “Sky stands out with her resilience—she’s managing mast cell activation and has a 504 plan to support her at school, yet she’s still an A-grade honor student. Despite managing her health challenges, she excels academically and is eager to engage in school activities, such as her new role on the drill team. She’s an inspiration to peers, showing that determination can shine through adversity.” When asked about her favorite school subject, Sky answered art. “It gives me a chance to relax, be creative, and have fun. I love using my imagination to create different things, and I enjoy learning new art techniques and trying new ideas.” Outside of school, Sky loves dance because, she says, “It lets me be myself and build my confidence. I love learning new routines,

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | L I FE + CU LT U RE

performing, and spending time with my friends while doing something I really enjoy.” Mom Corinna added, “Sadie contributes to her school community with her kindness and bravery. Even with Tourette’s and cyclical vomiting syndrome, she approaches each day with positivity, spreading encouragement to classmates. She pushes through each day and is known for her kind and caring heart.” Sadie’s favorite activity outside of school is gymnastics. She says, “I love learning new things, and it keeps me busy. It’s so much fun doing flips and bars, even though it's hard.” Mom notes, “Both girls are quick to stand up for others and promote kindness. Together, they foster a supportive environment, showing empathy and a sense of responsibility for their peers.” Do you know of a student, educator, or good human who should be featured? Send an email to our editorial coordinator at Valerie. Merrick@CityLifestyle.com to nominate them.

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WORKIN’ IT YOUNG PROFESSIONAL FASHION FIT FOR THE PERFECT PITCH TO THE HAPPIEST HOUR ARTICLE BY ROXANNE CARNE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADELINE MERRICK: MERRICK MULTIMEDIA

T R E N D SE T T E R | SHO P P IN G

MONDAY & TUESDAY

This page: Look 1: Suit: Scanlan Theodore; shoes: Ally Shoes. Look 2: Jacket: L’Agence; skirt: WAYF; shoes: Sarah Flint.

Call it the One-Piece Rule: one of this fall's most popular fashion trends, and also the smartest way to get dressed while somehow still being the simplest. Instead of piecing together five brand-new looks from scratch, real style now hinges on a single, deliberate anchor—one bold piece, worn with confidence, everything else kept quiet around it. It plays out beautifully across a full week in the life of a young professional. Monday morning starts strong. A tailored navy suit—peplum jacket and matching trouser cinched at the waist with a slim gold belt—sets the tone for a power meeting: structured, composed, and unmistakably in charge. The peplum hem does the talking here, so everything else underneath stays clean, quiet, and confident. By the time the big pitch rolls around later in the week, the whole mood shifts entirely. A burgundy leather peplum jacket takes over the room, styled down with a chocolate faux-leather miniskirt for easy, grounded contrast underneath. It's the boldest silhouette of the whole week, finished with a rich chocolate suede bootie for warmth, and proof that conviction, not just polish, is what actually gets a big idea across the table. CONTINUED >

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WEDNESDAYFRIDAY Casual Friday leans into elevated denim: barrel-leg jeans, prized for their twisting front seam, paired with a golden silk blouse, leopard shoes, and a black belt with tiny gold studs. The rest stays deliberately simple, letting that one seam detail carry the whole look effortlessly through the day. After-work drinks call for shine. A crystal-embellished sheer shirt, oversized and cut like a starlit night sky, layers effortlessly over a soft, ruched mesh skirt for full monochrome polish— proof the rule works just as well once the sun finally goes down. Weekend, off-duty: a plush faux-fur jacket, worn loose and easy over a simple navy camisole and classic indigo denim. Texture becomes the statement here, no matter the season, closing out the whole week exactly where it began—one bold piece, quietly doing all the work.

This page (clockwise from top left): Look 1: Top and jeans: L’Agence; shoes: Sarah Flint. Look 2: Top: Alice + Olivia; skirt: L’Agence; shoes: Ally Shoes. Look 3: Top, jacket, and jeans: Scanlan Theodore; shoes: Sarah Flint.

T R E N D SE T T E R | SHO P P IN G

MEET THE STYLIST

This Page: Stylist: Roxanne Carne

Stylist Roxanne Carne Roxanne Carne didn't set out to become a stylist so much as a translator, turning what a woman wants to feel into something she can actually wear. Hollywood-trained and based in North Dallas, Roxanne founded Roxanne Carne Personal Stylist in 2013 on a simple belief: style isn't vanity; it's strategy. She works across every layer of a client's life—closet, color, confidence, career—helping women walk into a room already looking like the answer. Today, she serves her fifth year on the Fashion Group International board as regional director, following four years on the AICI Chicago Midwest Chapter board.

But ask what she loves most about the work, and she won't mention the credentials. She'll tell you it's watching a client's entire relationship with her wardrobe change, sometimes in a single session—from overwhelmed to effortless, from "I have nothing to wear" to getting dressed without a second thought. For this shoot, she kept it simple and classic: a soft grey turtleneck, sleek black trousers, one piece doing the work. Exactly the philosophy she teaches every day. Roxannecarne.com

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STYLED by CONFIDENCE Carolyn Jesmer Helps Merle Norman Rockwall Clients Discover Beauty That’s Uniquely Their Own ARTICLE BY DEBORAH DOVE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOSEPH RIVERS: JAY SONATA PHOTOGRAPHY Carolyn Jesmer is the face of Merle Norman Rockwall in every sense of the word. For the past nine years, she’s been the familiar face greeting customers as they walk through the door, helping them find the right cosmetics and skincare while building the kind of lasting relationships that equates to knowing them by name and keeping up with what’s happening in their lives. She’s also one of Merle Norman’s best testimonials. A believer in the well-established, high-quality brand, Carolyn wears the products she recommends, and with a youthful complexion that belies her years, she’s constantly asked what she uses, making her a walking advertisement for the store’s products. For Carolyn, style isn’t about chasing trends or covering imperfections. It’s about helping women discover the confidence that comes from looking like the best version of themselves. Whether she's matching the perfect foundation, recommending a skincare routine, or teaching someone a new makeup technique, she believes every woman deserves to feel beautiful—and that the right products should enhance the beauty that's already there. “We want every customer who walks through our doors to leave feeling more confident than when they arrived,” says Carolyn.

Revealing the Beauty That’s Already There Step One: Choose the Right Product Carolyn’s passion is uncovering and enhancing a woman’s natural beauty. That begins with helping women find the right products. Understanding there’s no one size fits all when it comes to makeup and skincare—and that each client has different needs depending on their age, skin conditions, and lifestyle—she starts by sitting down with them and understanding their concerns.

FASH ION F OR WA R D | STYLE + BE AU T Y

“Many clients need something, but they don’t know what that ‘something’ is. Usually skin is the key,” she says. “If skin is the problem, makeup won’t look right. For example, exfoliation is important because it removes dead skin cells, so makeup applies more smoothly.” She also stresses the importance of using products that are formulated to work together. After understanding the client’s concerns and goals, she can recommend a personalized plan to achieve those goals. When it comes to choosing the right makeup, Carolyn takes the same approach, helping each woman find the right colors and formulations for their individual needs. CONTINUED > S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / R O C KWA L L

Rather than simply pointing customers toward a shelf, Carolyn invites them to sit down for a personalized consultation, where she applies different products and shades so they can see how each one looks on their own skin. Merle Norman Rockwall also offers “try before you buy” samples. And if something doesn’t work, clients can bring the product back and try something else. Step Two: Correct Application After discovering the right product, the next step for Carolyn is educating her clients about how to use them. That might mean tips on how to apply makeup or the correct order of application for skincare products (“Apply thin to thick,” Carolyn recommends), so they work correctly. “Whether someone purchases one lipstick or an entire skincare routine, we want her to leave knowing how to apply our products with confidence. You can spend an hour on makeup or ten minutes. Either way, we can deliver a plan,” she says. Step Three: Complete the Look Of course, fashion is an important part of a woman’s confidence and style, and half of Merle Norman Rockwall’s store is devoted to a boutique that carries clothing, costume and finer jewelry, designer-type handbags, totes, and gift items such as sunglasses and travel jewelry boxes. Here you can finesse your personal style with outfits from brands such as John Mark, Ali Miles, and Multiples that you won’t see everyone else wearing, or accessorize your look with statement pieces from Bara and Julie Voss or rings, bracelets, and necklaces from Melinda Maria, which come with a lifetime guarantee. The result? Confidence that shines from within. “Nothing is more rewarding than seeing someone look in the mirror, smile, and say, ‘I feel like myself again,’” says Carolyn. Stop by Merle Norman Rockwall at 2845 Ridge Rd #219, Rockwall, for your own custom consultation.

FASH ION F OR WA R D | STYLE + BE AU T Y

Always passionate about makeup and cosmetics, Rockwall’s Carolyn Jesmer joined Merle Norman Cosmetics Rockwall nine years ago after retiring from a marketing career in the tech industry.

Carolyn’s Favorite Products • Merle Norman Anti-Aging Skincare System – This specialized skincare system visibly reduces fine lines, improves skin elasticity, and restores moisture with serums, cleansers, night creams, eye creams, and exfoliants. • Lip Products – Merle Norman’s lip product line— including lip oil, glosses, pencils and liners, and lipsticks—provides rich pigmentations, comfortable wear, and hydrating formulas. • Foundations – Carolyn praises the long-wearing foundations that are skincare infused and custom-matched by color and skin type • John Mark clothing – Carolyn likes this relaxed but upscale collection of women’s apparel because it wears well and holds its shape and color.

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HAIR = STYLE ARTICLE BY AVERY BALLMANN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TY HARPER PHOTOGRAPHY

FOUR TIPS TO PROLONG YOUR BLOWOUT FROM BLO BLOWDRY BAR

H AIR CA R E | BEAUTY

“My biggest tip is to protect your hair from moisture and oil.” Makeup, clothes, shoes, and accessories all contribute to creating a polished and well-put-together look, but don’t leave your hair out of the styling process. For those who don’t know the first thing about using a hair tool or are too busy to maintain a hairstyle, Blo Blowdry Bar has the expertise and insider tips to make your hair stand out, including their specialty—blowouts! A blowout is a hairstyling technique that transforms freshly washed hair with a blow dryer and round brush to create a voluminous, shiny look. Most blowouts last four to five days, but since Blo Blowdry Bar operations manager Anna Everett has been a hairstylist since 2012, she knows the dos and don’ts to help prolong your blowout.

“For someone who hasn’t had a blowout before, I would recommend coming in, picking your style out, and seeing which one you want to do,” Everett says. “It (hair services) includes the shampoo, blow dry, and also the curl, so that’s not an extra fee at all.” Blo offers five signature looks that are customizable to each client. These styles include classic big curls, beachy waves, diffused curls, and sleek straight hair. Regardless of whether you have thin or thick hair, Everett assures that Blo Blowdry Bar offers products and techniques to enhance your blowout. “There are always different techniques we can try to give the clients a look that they want,” Everett explains. Whether you’re attending a wedding, updating your headshot, wanting to treat yourself, or need a low-maintenance look, a blowout is a great way to elevate your everyday style. Blo has salons in Rockwall and Flower Mound, where you’re guaranteed a custom consultation and the ultimate pink carpet treatment. “Every client gets the pink carpet treatment. We try to make them feel as special as possible,” Everett says. “We really go in-depth with the consultation, and then once we go to the shampoo bowl, we help them to relax as much as possible.” Once you’re out of the salon chair, follow these four tips from Everett to make the most of your blowout. CONTINUED >

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MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR BLOWOUT 01/

Protect Your Hair Just as you would apply sunscreen to your skin before heading to the pool, implement the same care with your blowout. Everett recommends using a silk pillowcase or bonnet and a shower cap. Bonnets and pillowcases reduce frizz and breakage from bedhead, and a shower cap protects your hair from excessive moisture. Blo sells Kitsch accessories in store, so grab this extra layer of protection before you check out.

02/

Avoid Excessive Touching While it’s akin to asking you not to touch the big red button, do your best to avoid touching/adjusting your blowout. Our hands emit natural oils that can transfer to your hair and flatten your look.

03/

Products to Prolong the Look Unfortunately, you can’t live in a protective bubble, so there are a few products Everett recommends to extend your blowout. If you feel that your style is looking a little oily by day three, use Color Wow Dry Shampoo. This product effectively absorbs oil and doesn’t weigh your hair down. Another favorite product of Everett’s is the Color Wow Money Mist spray. This is applied to your hair before styling to strengthen, detangle, and moisturize your hair. Everett also advises using these products in moderation as an excessive amount can weigh down your hair.

04/

A Quick Touch-Up Goes a Long Way According to Everett, a curling iron can help prolong your look significantly. Touching up curls can give that extra boost your blowout needs when approaching day four and five. For more information, visit www.BloMeDry.com/ Blo-Rockwall, call 469.769.1015, or visit 2245 Ridge Road, Ste. 101, Rockwall, Texas.

H AIR CA R E | BEAUTY

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ARTICLE BY STACY LEACH PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Wear Colors That Truly

LOVE YOU A quick guide to finding flattering shades for life. KNOW YOUR UNDERTONE Your undertone doesn’t change with the seasons. Check your wrist veins: blue means cool, green means warm, and unclear may be neutral. Cool tones love jewel colors; warm tones glow in earthy, rich shades.

CONSIDER CONTRAST Do you have high contrast between your hair, skin, and eyes (like dark hair and light skin)? High contrast looks great in bold, clear colors. Low contrast (like blonde hair and fair skin)? Softer, blended tones often suit you best.

THE WHITE VS. CREAM TEST Hold a white and ivory shirt near your face. If white flatters, you're likely cool-toned. If ivory glows against your skin, you're likely warm-toned. This quick test reveals your undertone with ease.

BUILD AROUND YOUR “WOW” COLORS Once you identify a few colors that make you look and feel amazing, use those as the base of your palette. These are your power colors—build your wardrobe and makeup around them!

PRO TIP You don’t have to follow rules perfectly. Your color palette is a guide, not a limit. Mix, match, and most importantly— wear what makes you feel beautiful.

M UST SE E | STYL E + BEAU T Y

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ARTICLE BY ALLISON BANKSTON | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

INGREDIENTS: • • • • • •

1 bottle, standard size, of pinot grigio 2 1/2 cups fresh apple cider 1 cup club soda 1/2 cup ginger brandy 3 honey crisp apples, chopped 3 pears, chopped

DIRECTIONS: Combine all ingredients together and stir. Refrigerate for an hour or so (or longer) before serving. The drink can be enjoyed immediately, if desired, but the longer you let the ingredients sit and mix, the deeper the flavors will be. Giving it time to develop will make the drink more captivating and interesting.

NOTE: Regular brandy can be used, but ginger brandy gives it an extra kick of flavor.

APPLE CIDER

sangria A LATE SUMMER/EARLY FALL TREAT

As the season transitions into fall, it still features the warm, sunny days of summer but nights start to drop into the crisp temperatures. That leaves us in the limbo of wanting cool, refreshing drinks part of the time but also craving the deeper, spice-infused flavors of autumn. This recipe for apple cider sangria is the perfect blending of the seasons, leaving you feeling both refreshed and warmed through the deep flavors and interesting hints of spice. It’s a great drink to add to any dinner party, cocktail gathering, back deck after-hours get-together, or birthday bash. Here’s what you need to make the perfect mid-season cocktail to enhance whatever event you have planned.

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SEPTEMBER 2026

events A S E L E C T I O N O F U P C O M I N G LO C A L E V E N T S SE PT E M BE R 1 2 T H

Dance Like a Dinosaur SpringHill Suites Rockwall: 2601 Lakefront Trl., Rockwall, TX 75032 | 5:00 PM The City of Rockwall's Annual Mother Son Dance goes prehistoric with a Dino Bash night packed with music, dancing, and dino-sized memories for all ages. Whether dressed in full dinosaur gear or explorer attire, every duo is guaranteed an unforgettable evening. Each attendee requires a ticket, so visit www.Rockwall.com to secure spots before they sell out. SE PT E M BE R 1 7 T H

Who's the Sharpest Shot in Rockwall County? Texas Gun Ranch: 15950 State Hwy. 205, Terrell, TX 75160 | 11:00 AM The Chamber Classic Clay Shoot brings professionals together for a day of friendly competition, teamwork, and genuine connection on the range. Teams represent businesses of every background, and this year's new Ladies Lounge adds an exciting fresh dimension to the experience. Visit www.RockwallChamber.org for registration details, sponsorship opportunities, and everything needed to claim a spot. SE PT E M BE R 1 9 T H

Fireworks, Food, and Fate at Its Finest Fate City Hall: 1900 CD Boren Pkwy., Rockwall, TX 75087 | 5:00 PM Celebrate Fate 2026 brings the whole community together for an evening of live music, food vendors, family activities, and a spectacular fireworks finale honoring everything that makes the city worth celebrating. This is one of Fate's most beloved annual traditions and the perfect excuse to gather with friends and neighbors to make memories. See all of event details www.FateTX.gov. SE PT E M BE R 1 9 T H

Big Hair & Better Education Hilton Rockwall Lakefront: 2055 Summer Lee Dr., Rockwall, TX 75032 | 6:00 PM The RCISD Education Foundation's 6th Annual Evening for Education rewinds to the decade of neon, mixtapes, and Trapper Keepers for a retro-modern gala benefiting today's classrooms. A curated dinner, exclusive live auction, and an after-party Retro Arcade Lounge with 80s hits from DJ Todd Helms make this a night worth dressing up for. Grab your tickets at www.RCISDEF.com. SE PT E M BE R 1 9 T H

Black & White Casino Glam The Venue at Boyd Farm: 10350 State Hwy. 205, Lavon, TX 75166 | 6:00 PM Soroptimist International of Rockwall's 7th Annual Casino Night delivers Texas Hold'em, blackjack, craps, roulette, a buffet dinner, live and silent auctions, and DJ Josh, all dressed in black, white, and Texas glam. Every ticket supports the Pink Bag Project, STARS senior programming, and Dream It Be It mentoring for girls. Reserve your seat at www.SoroptimistRockwall.org. SE PT E M BE R 2 6T H

Glen Templeton Live Southern Junction Nightclub & Steakhouse: 5574 TX-276, Royse City, TX 75189 | 10:00 PM Glen Templeton's extraordinary journey from Conway Twitty tribute artist to Grand Ole Opry performer and Sirius XM chart-topper is the kind of story country music was made for. Catch him live at Royse City's legendary steakhouse and dance hall where Texas music history is made nightly. Get tickets and show details at www.SouthernJunctionLive.com.

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