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At 25, Dr. Kristensen found herself at a crossroads, divorced, with young children to support, and a burning determination to build a better life. Realizing that financial independence would be a struggle, she knew in her heart that going back to school was the only way forward. After years of feeling lost, she discovered meditation, which led her to her true passion: holistic healing. Inspired by this newfound purpose, she decided to study acupuncture and Chinese medicine.
With no prior college experience, she had to begin with high school coursework before pursuing her bachelor’s degree, a necessary step toward earning her doctorate in Chinese medicine. Finishing what she started had always been a challenge, but when faced with difficult assignments and tests, she reminded herself that quitting would leave her dependent on others. That thought alone fueled her determination to keep going.
Balancing rigorous studies with an array of odd jobs, she did whatever it took to make ends meet. From DJing to launching her own Christmas light business to driving for Uber, she worked tirelessly to support her family. There were months without a proper heater, when she used the oven to warm her home, and mornings without hot water. Leaks under the kitchen sink meant catching water in buckets. When finances improved, she rented out two bedrooms in her home, squeezing into the smallest room with her children. As a student and single mother, she had to be resourceful and innovative. Skills that later became the foundation of her success as an entrepreneur. For her, survival wasn’t just a struggle; it was a challenge she was determined to conquer.
Dr. Kristensen’s journey into holistic healing wasn’t just about professional ambition, it was deeply personal. She understood struggle, resilience, and transformation firsthand. Though there were times she had to step back from school, she never gave up, ultimately earning her bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degrees.
In 2019, she founded Vibe Acupuncture & Holistic Healing, initially offering acupuncture and Chinese medicine. Since then, she has expanded her services, blending ancient healing practices with cutting-edge biohacking technology. Her practice now includes fertility and hormone treatments, full-body compression therapy, cupping, red light therapy, holistic microneedling, metabolic analysis, and more. She is also the only practitioner in The Woodlands certified in the Superhuman Protocol, which combines Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) Therapy, Exercise with Oxygen Therapy (EWOT), and Red Light Therapy to combat aging, oxidative stress, and weight gain.
Her dedication has not gone unnoticed. Dr. Kristensen has been featured in Top Docs Living Magazine, has been recognized as Best Acupuncturist in The Woodlands for several consecutive years, and was awarded Best Alternative Medicine Clinic in The Woodlands 2025 by Woodlands Online.
Her journey from struggle to success has shaped her approach to healing. Dr. Kristensen doesn’t just treat symptoms; she empowers others to reclaim their health, just as she reclaimed her own life. Through resilience, innovation, and a deep commitment to holistic wellness, she has built more than a clinic, she has created a space where transformation begins.
“Strength and dignity are her clothing, And she smiles at the future.”
- Proverbs 31:25
Have you ever met a woman who seemed filled with purpose?
At least two live on my street. And if I keep driving, I know I’m bound, at some point, to run into more. That is one of the great things about living in The Woodlands: this community teems with women of varied backgrounds, dreams, and experiences, and yet among us often lies an unspoken commonality, a silent understanding as we pass each other on the walking trails — we won’t just let our days go by. We will live, as much as we are able, on purpose.
That doesn’t mean striving for perfection. Our schedules may get hectic, and our homes messy. We may forget to return a friend’s call or extend grace to stircrazy kids. But amid all that we have to balance rests a steady assurance of where — and with who — we belong.
Our Women’s Issue celebrates just that: women of The Woodlands and how their lives effuse strength, dignity, and confidence in what matters.
In the following pages, you’ll find our congratulations to graduating seniors (with life advice), Mother’s Day done The Woodlands way, a travel guide to the lovely Fairhope, AL, your official invitation to start volunteering, and a Q&A with Houston Ballet soloist Aoi Fujiwara.
Our cover story reveals the work-life balance secrets of five remarkable Woodlands mother-entrepreneurs. (Hint: boundaries, a second cell phone.)
Lastly, don’t forget to peruse our roundup of this month’s local happenings!
We hope you come away from this issue reminded of how womanhood, with all of its challenges, is imbued with a purpose that reflects beauty and truth beyond our reflections, to the world we inhabit. It’s this true beauty that prospers our relationships, nurtures our little ones, betters our business endeavors, and imparts hope to those most in need.
One thing is certain: our community is that much more beautiful for having such women call The Woodlands home.
GRAY, MANAGING EDITOR
May 2025
PUBLISHER
Tonya Butler | tonya.butler@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Alex Gray | alex.gray@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Arielle Alston | arielle.alston@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Alison Bridges | alison.bridges@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Travis Hager, Laura L. Green, Kelly Twedell, Heather Davis, Alex Gray, Dawn Allen
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Bex Wood
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
1: Pct. 3 Constable Gable’s Breakfast fundraiser held at Truluck’s raised over $11,000 for Children’s Safe Harbor. 2: 2025 event co-chairs Adam Acosta and Todd Adams, from Children’s Safe Harbor’s board of directors. 3: Joe Wiley, Victoria Constance, Reid Powell. 4: Interfaith honored their 2025 Hometown Heroes at the Celebration of Excellence Gala on February 28th. 5: Julie Mayrant, Mary Anne Whitney, Mark Whitney, Missy Herndon. 6: The Live Auction, which raised over $650,000, was hosted by Hometown Hero Will Murphy. 7: Interfaith of The Woodlands Hometown Heroes past and present.
1: Young Texas Artists pulled out all the stops for its 40th anniversary celebration. 2: Harpist Maria de Jesus Contreras, YTA Silver
Winds, Brass, Percussion, Harp & Guitar. 3: Harry Hardman, Master of Ceremony Ray Benson of Asleep at the Wheel, Duke Coon. 4:
Elizabeth Marlow is YTA’s 2025 Gold Medalist in the Voice division. 5: Susie Moore Pokorski, Gil Staley, Debra Staley, Ray Benson, Jamie Hamm, Rick Hamm. 6: Jeri and Leland Dushkin present Szuyu Su with the Audience Choice Award. 7: Violinist Fiona Shea, this year’s YTA Grand Prize winner and Gold Medalist - Strings division. Want to be seen in the magazine?
Opening soon on the ground level at Two Lakes Edge in Hughes Landing is [solidcore], a 50-minute, fullbody, strength-training workout. This high-intensity, low impact core workout uses slow, controlled movements to break down slow-twitch muscle fibers, allowing them to build back stronger. Solidcore’s mission is to challenge every client to seek their strongest self through the world’s most transformative workout. The new location is slated to open early Summer 2025. Provided by Howard Hughes | solidcore.co
Mirror Lake Designs is an award-winning expert pool builder and landscape designer in Spring. Their unique approach is to incorporate the pool into the overall home design which creates a beautiful sequence of entertainment spaces that flow cohesively from the inside out to the backyard. With over 40 years of experience in our area, Mirror Lake Designs has evolved from a one man shop into a robust team of skilled professionals and artisans. Photography Provided
Dr. Leah has taken over 140 hours of continuing education with the world-renowned Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies (LVI) and is working on her Fellowship distinction. Dr. Leah Zils is set to take over Dr. Cagle’s dental practice, dedicated to preserving and advancing the legacy of exceptional dental care established by her predecessor. Dr. Zils attended the University of Arkansas on a soccer scholarship before finishing her Bachelor’s Degree in Biology at Texas A&M University, graduating Summa Cum Laude. She then graduated from UT School of Dentistry in Houston and hit the ground running with her dental career.
She has taken over 140 hours of continuing education with the world-renowned Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies (LVI) and is working on her Fellowship distinction. She is certified in laser dentistry as well as oral sedation. She is a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. Dr. Zils looks forward to welcoming new clients into the practice, where she can apply her extensive education and experience to provide top-notch dental care.
Welcoming New Patients.
Nick's Plumbing & Air Conditioning has been providing Houston and the surrounding communities with the best in professional plumbing and HVAC services since 1979. Nick's only employs licensed and experienced technicians that have been thoroughly background checked. All technicians must take part in ongoing mandatory education to remain at peak performance in knowledge and skill sets. They guarantee all of their work, so you know it will be done right the first time!
Photography Provided
It's the month of flying caps — Graduation Month.
As countless high schoolers in our community and beyond celebrate this great achievement, we at The Woodlands City Lifestyle had to do the same in our Women's Issue. After all, graduating from high school is a significant milestone for young women of The Woodlands.
As an uncle to a graduating senior, the snarky side of me wants to say, “Congratulations! You just finished the easiest part of your life.” But my more mature side prevails, and I wonder what advice I could offer this generation.
What things should you know at this point in your life? What pieces of wisdom do I wish I had known at this point in my own life? While not trying to sound like Baz Luhrmann’s spoken-word song, “Everybody's Free (To Wear Sunscreen),” which came out around the time I was preparing to finish undergrad, I have a few thoughts.
1. No one is coming to save you from your problems. Your life is 100% your responsibility.
2. Your nine-to-five is someone else’s passive income. Repeat that to yourself, “Your nine-to-five is someone else’s passive income.” Find multiple ways to make money and create your own income streams.
3. Be careful when taking advice from people who aren’t where you want to be in life unless they’re sharing their mistakes and how to avoid them. (Yes, that even includes me!)
4. If you’re the smartest person in the room, you’re in the wrong room. Leave immediately.
5. When you find someone smarter than you (and you will), work with them, don’t compete.
6. Comfort is the worst addiction and often the cheapest ticket to depression. Complacency kills!
7. Don’t tell people more than they need to know. Respect your privacy. Respect theirs, too. This applies to both your personal and professional lives.
8. Keep your standards high. Don’t settle for something just because it’s available.
9. What’s cheap isn’t good and what’s good isn’t cheap. Learn the value of something. Just as important, know your value.
10. A family you create is every bit as important as the family you come from.
11. Learn to take nothing personally. This will save you from 99% of mental problems.
12. Baz was right about the sunscreen.*
Whether you are graduating from The Woodlands High School, College Park, Oak Ridge, The John Cooper School, or The Woodlands Christian Academy, you and your families should consider this a moment to remember.
Congratulations to the Senior Class of 2025. We are all proud of you!
*In 1997, filmmaker Baz Luhrmann surprised the music world with a spoken-word track. Based on a mock commencement speech written by Chicago Tribune columnist Mary Schmich, “Everybody’s Free (To Wear Sunscreen)” became a global hit, reaching #1 in the UK.
Convenient, easy-to-access location for primary and specialty care
At our comprehensive care center location in Creekside, we offer a full spectrum of care, including:
• Primary care providers for you and your family, offering personal care and service
• Specialists with innovative treatments and customized programs for patients with cardiology, endocrinology, neurology, orthopedics and sports medicine, and physical therapy needs
• Collaborative teams of experts using the newest technologies and latest research
Mother’s Day is nearly here. (It’s May 11, for those who need a gentle reminder!) And what better way to celebrate Mom — or the women who hold that exceptional role in your life — than taking her on an enchanting outing in The Woodlands? From roses to caviar to a final taste of sweetness, Mom is sure to feel appreciated on this tour of sensory delights.
ARTICLE BY KELLY TWEDELL | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
With over 6,000 roses in full bloom, Life in Rose Farm — the only rose farm in the South — is a memorable outing to honor moms of all kinds, or the special woman who has sowed love into your life. May’s cool mornings make it the perfect time to sip afternoon tea amid the myriad roses bred onsite. Inside the renowned Glass House boasts a one-ofa-kind view of the stunning rose gardens. Looking for a unique gift? Don’t just smell the roses, pick them! Select 10 to 12 stems at the Rose Bar to arrange in a Mason jar, and bring home a memento of your day together. But start the tradition now! This space is sold out every season.
After Life in Rose Farm, plan to walk through the shops at Hughes Landing and make a reservation for lunch at Truluck’s. Truluck’s is a memorable meal for mothers and grandmothers, with plantbased and gluten-free options. Order the misoglazed seabass or chicken stroganoff for lunch, or indulge in an even more succulent dish: caviar. True Caviar, Truluck’s caviar brand, provides a luxury lunch experience that accompanies either vodka or tequila pairings for your special day out. Even better? Toast to giving back! Truluck’s donates $1 from every espresso martini or Frenchpressed coffee order to the PTSD Foundation of America’s Camp Hope.
After Life in Rose Farm, plan to walk through the shops at Hughes Landing and make a reservation for lunch at Truluck’s.
End the day on a sweet note with dessert at OddFellows Ice Cream Co., a new, exciting eatery where creativity and flavor collide! OddFellows strives to be the most exciting — and indulgent — part of your day. Their ice cream bases are pure perfection: just sugar, cream, and eggs sourced from Eastern Pennsylvania and made from scratch in New York City. They also offer several ice creams with nondairy milk alternatives, such as cashew milk and coconut milk, for any moms who might be lactose intolerant! This is quality ice cream you need to experience!
Who says you have to drive downtown to shower Mom with love?
TO MOMS:
My Mother, my friend so dear, throughout my life you’re always near. A tender smile to guide my way, you’re the sunshine to light my day.
TO BONUS MOMS:
You didn’t hold me at birth, but you have caught me when I’ve fallen. You weren’t there for my first steps, but there were many first steps in this life. I’m so grateful for you.
Create your own DIY sugar scrub for a perfect gift for a special person in your life.
To make one 8 ounce mason jar of vanilla orange sugar scrub, you need:
• 1/4 cup of coconut oil
• 3/4 cup of sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 10 drops of orange essential oil
Soften the coconut oil in the microwave for a few seconds. Next add the vanilla extract and the orange essential oil. Then, stir in the sugar, a little at a time. Print off a fun label or attach a ribbon to the jar, and your gift is ready. Enjoy!
The best mother-daughter trips are those that do not have a frenetic pace.
The best mother-daughter trips are those that do not have a frenetic pace — no need to set an alarm, catch a tour bus, or take the perfect Instagram photo. Instead, the point of traveling with Mom is to simply be together and savor an itinerary that unfolds naturally. Fairhope, Alabama lends itself to this easy-does-it vacation mindset.
Located along the Eastern coastline of Mobile Bay, this over-a-century-old city is bound to charm you with its quaint shops, delicious fare, and striking views.
Your first morning in Fairhope is a good time to get your bearings. Drive along S. Mobile Street to the top of the bluff overlooking the eastern shoreline of Mobile Bay and take in the view.
Settlers chose the bluff as the site of their utopian single-tax colony, founded in 1894 by followers of economist Henry George. The land that comprised the settlement was owned by all, with leaseholders paying a tax that funded parks and government services. (Though the town has outgrown these original boundaries, the Fairhope Single-Tax Corporation is still in operation, and you can see its offices downtown.)
Head downhill to the Fairhope Municipal Pier and Park, where you’ll find scenic trails, a botanical garden, and prime bird-watching opportunities. Stroll the quarter-mile-long pier and watch anglers cast their lines in hopes of reeling in a speckled trout or redfish. For breakfast, drive five minutes to Warehouse Bakery & Donuts, known for handcrafted donuts, fluffy biscuits and sausage gravy, shrimp beignets, and a full spread of Southern favorites served with locally roasted coffee from Fairhope Roasting Company.
Another short drive will put you in the heart of downtown, where free parking is plentiful along the flower-lined streets, with additional public parking available north of the Fairhope Public Library and adjacent to the Fairhope Museum of History. Housed in the 1928 former city hall building, this small museum is worth a stop to learn more about the region’s past.
Spend the rest of your day on a leisurely exploration of quaint boutiques, local art galleries, and specialty shops, including Crown and Colony Antiques for European antiques and Persian rugs. Stylish fashion lines with a Southern flair can be found at The Colony Shop. Visit Fairhope Soap Company for artisanal soaps and skincare products, most of them made in-house. The Eastern Shore Art Center features a rotating exhibit of regional artists, a gift shop, and a First Friday Art Walk. Visit in March for the Outdoor Art Show, which attracts more than 250,000 visitors each year.
From its beginning, Fairhope has been a magnet for creatives, especially writers, including Upton Sinclair, Winston Groom (author of the novel Forrest Gump), and Fannie Flagg, who wrote the screenplay for the movie Fried Green Tomatoes while living here. The Fairhope Center for the Writing Arts continues this legacy, hosting a writer-in-residence each year in a cottage tucked behind the public library.
If Mom is a reader, she’ll enjoy perusing the shelves of Page & Palette, a family-run independent bookstore operating for over five decades. With its insightful, handwritten recommendations
From its beginning, Fairhope has been a magnet for creatives. “ ”
and an excellent selection of Alabama authors and book titles, it’s easy to while away the time here, espresso drink in hand from the bookstore’s Latte Da coffee shop. If you’re in the mood for something stronger, step into The Book Cellar, the cozy bar in the back of the store that hosts live music and author readings.
You’ll find familiar Gulf Coast favorites on most restaurant menus in Fairhope, but be sure to search out the specialties of the southwest Alabama Gulf Coast. A fine rendition of West Indies salad, a regional dish made with marinated crab, is on the menu at Southern Roots in the historic Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa. Fried grouper sandwiches are another local favorite, and the crispy grouper po-boy at Tamara’s Downtown is a musttry. If you and your mom are oyster lovers, you’ve hit the jackpot: The Alabama Gulf Coast is home to some of the most pristine and flavorful bivalves in the country. Sample a dozen (or two) as a starter during dinner at Pearl Seafood + Raw Bar, where the menu of updated Southern classics includes an award-winning gumbo of chicken, shrimp, and Alabama-made Conecuh sausage, as well as a deftly prepared redfish on the half shell.
It’s about an hour’s scenic drive to historic Fort Morgan, where you can board the Mobile Bay Ferry with your car. Look for pelicans and bottlenosed dolphins
along the route to Dauphin Island, a 17-mile-long barrier island just off the mainland. Enjoy the quiet beaches there and visit Fort Gaines or the Dauphin Island Sea Lab, home to the Alabama Aquarium. Stop in for a bite to eat and an impressive selection of wines by the bottle at The Carriage Wine & Market. Enjoy a custom charcuterie board and a platter of Isle Dauphine oysters, one of several Alabama oyster companies with farms in the area. These small, plump, bivalves have a clean, sweet taste and creamy texture that are the result of decades of perfecting the art of off-bottom oyster farming along Alabama’s Gulf Coast.
Accommodations are a crucial component of a languorous stay. If you and your mom feel like staying in one day, these are great places to do so:
• Emma’s Bay House is a charming B&B just steps from Fairhope Municipal Park and Pier.
• Jubilee Suites, set in a historic waterfront home, offers one and two-bedroom suites.
• Known as “the Queen of Southern Resorts,” the bayfront Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa was originally built in 1847 and is surrounded by a canopy of twisted, moss-covered oaks. It offers a spa, two golf courses, and several restaurants. Spend the final evening of your perfect getaway with Mom around one of the patio firepits as you sip cocktails from Bucky’s Lounge, named one of the South’s best hotel bars.
CONTINUED >
Some say mothers possess secret superpowers. That’s not surprising when you consider these five local entrepreneurs, women who seamlessly blend their passions for business and family. They are a testament to the strength and resilience of moms everywhere.
ARTICLE BY HEATHER DAVIS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BEX WOOD
ROSE WADE INTERIOR DESIGN & A DIVINE CLOSET
Amanda Carreon from Rose Wade Interior Design and A Divine Closet, Bex Wood from Bex Wood Photography, Beth Ferester and granddaughter Grace from Corcoran Ferester Realty, Meredith Boudousquié from Boudousquié Interiors, and Tina Kosh Goodson from Amerigo’s Grille all have something in common: an inspiring outlook on the work-life balance that is truly energizing to those who need a little push in the direction of their dreams!
We sat down first with Amanda Carreon, owner of both Rose Wade Interior Design and A Divine Closet, two businesses that offer luxury interior design with a deep focus on client advocacy and education through a collaborative design process.
Amanda, how do you juggle both Rose Wade Interior Design and A Divine Closet while having a family?
I have a great team. My husband is super involved and supportive at home, allowing me to really dive into both as needed.
How has your daughter inspired the way you view your business? She has brought a playfulness to the business that is so refreshing. She loves to come and style jobs with me and has quite an eye herself.
Your mom left a legacy for you. How did seeing your mom create a business inspire you to run your own?
Watching my mother beautify a family home and seeing how that affects their everyday experiences was contagious and I wanted to continue the legacy.
Your mother received a cancer diagnosis in 2019. How did that challenge you as a business owner? What was your inspiration to keep pushing?
This was a major perspective shift to create boundaries that would allow me to spend more time with family and just how precious life really is. I was taught from a young age you work for what you want, and I want to have fun and also enjoy what I do. So creating the boundaries needed to do both has been life-changing. My mother’s death showed me the importance of being present and putting those you love first.
What is the biggest piece of advice you would give to other moms wanting to start a business?
Creating boundaries to put you and your family first isn’t a weakness, it’s a strength that will attract the clients/customers you want. Starting a business is a lot of blood, sweat, and tears, but it shouldn’t come with the sacrifice of your family time. I wish I had known that at the beginning. Setting those boundaries has delivered the clientele that respect that time and it is a win-win.
CONTINUED
The Woodlands City Lifestyle Contributing Photographer Bex Wood owns local photography business Bex Wood Luxe Portraits, where she empowers her clients — entrepreneurs, executives, and creatives — to feel their authentic selves and to help them step into the next level of their brand.
What does your work-life balance look like?
It’s a constant dance! Some seasons are busier than others, but I’ve learned to set boundaries and be intentional about my time. I build my schedule around my self-care and my family as much as possible while making space for the creative work that fuels me.
Has being a mom influenced the way you run your business? How so?
Absolutely. Motherhood has made me more intentional — with my time, my energy, and my boundaries. It’s taught me to prioritize what truly matters, both in my business and in life. It’s also deepened the way I connect with my clients. Many of them are balancing multiple roles just like me, and I love creating a space where they can step out of their daily responsibilities and into a version of themselves that feels powerful, confident, and fully seen.
Do you ever feel parental pressure to be fully present in both work and family life? If so, how do you handle it?
All the time. The key for me is recognizing that balance isn’t about being perfect at everything — it’s about being all in where I am, whether that’s with my kids or with a client. I give myself permission to be fully engaged in the moment, wherever that moment happens to be.
Do you have any advice for other moms wanting to start a business? Start messy. Don’t wait for perfect timing or perfect circumstances — just start. Build a business that fits your life, not one that takes over it.
FERESTER REALTY
Beth Ferester and Grace Petty of Corcoran Ferester Realty are a grandmother-granddaughter duo who help clients sell their homes and find their forever home, all with superior service. Beth is mentoring Grace to eventually take over her business.
Beth, how did you feel when Grace expressed interest in the business for the first time?
I was thrilled that she was interested in joining me in real estate which meant I could finally mentor part of my own family since I had mentored so many other agents over my long career. It is not only a thrill to have her in business, but also to have her here, close to her grandfather and me.
Does working with your granddaughter/grandmother influence the way you run your business?
Beth: At this stage in my career I am trying to do more and more to have Grace help so that she will be ready someday to take over the business.
Grace: I think the best way to learn is through experience, so I find myself being Beth’s “sidekick” whenever I can. This way I get to meet more people, watch how things are done, and assist her where I can.
How do you think having a multi-generational team gives you an advantage?
Beth: We both have our strengths. Grace relates to the younger clients and is a genius at the technical components of the business, including social media, etc. My strengths come from 42 years in the business and having learned and experienced just about every situation that comes up.
Grace: I think the multigenerational team is a huge advantage. [Beth] knows just about everyone in The Woodlands, which is important in our business. I feel I bring a more modern approach to her marketing and day-to-day operations while also bringing in a whole new demographic of clients. We are both knowledgeable and are able to fill in the blanks of the other.
Meredith Boudousquié, owner of Boudousquié Interiors, is known for customizing unique living spaces with details that transform homes into personality-filled spaces.
What does your work-life balance look like? How do you separate your business from time with your son? Our youngest son was born two years into owning my own business, and because he’s adopted, he came to live with us with very little notice. One of the first things I did was to get a second cell phone that is solely for business. That small change became one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Because my clients all have such different schedules, it gives them 24-hour access to message me whenever their schedules allow. But I control how and when I’m able to receive and respond to those messages. After six years, I can say, it’s been a win-win for all of us.
What are some challenges you’ve faced caring for an exceptional child with special needs while also running a business? How have your business decisions been based on your child’s schedule?
Although there were signs early on, our son wasn’t officially diagnosed with autism until he was three years old. The year between two and three was tough, to say the least. He was in and out of three different daycares while we tried to figure out what was going on, which meant my schedule was often changing. I worked morning, noon, and night to keep my head above water. But once we received a formal diagnosis, doors opened for specialized therapies and life became more “normal” for us. That year taught me so much about what I want for my life, my business, and motherhood. I now take on fewer projects at a time, so that my son’s therapy sessions can comfortably fit into my workdays. When my family is home in the evenings, it is family time until our son goes to sleep, and weekends are fully dedicated to enjoying every minute with each other.
AMERIGO’S GRILLE
Last, but certainly not least, is Tina Kosh Goodson, managing partner of Amerigo’s Grille, which is known as the first upscale dining option established in The Woodlands.
What does your work-life balance look like?
Balancing work and life can be challenging, but I make it a priority to set clear boundaries. Morning and late evenings are reserved for family, while work hours are dedicated to the restaurant tasks I oversee. Having a reliable team helps me delegate responsibilities, allowing me to be present for both business and family moments.
Has being a mom influenced the way you run your business? How so?
I experience the best of both worlds: I can contribute to the family business while pursuing my passion every day. Additionally, I appreciate the flexibility in my schedule, which allows me to be home with my kids when necessary. I’m truly grateful for this balance.
How have your decisions about your business been based on your children’s schedules?
I schedule my workload around my children’s important milestones and events. Whether adjusting my availability for school functions or ensuring I’m home for dinner on certain nights, I structure my responsibilities to align with their needs.
What are some things you do to soak in time with the family?
I prioritize quality family time, whether it’s a weekly dinner, attending my children’s events, or planning short getaways. Small moments, like leisurely mornings or bedtime stories, foster meaningful connections.
Do you have any advice for other moms wanting to start a business?
Start small, build a strong support network, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Maintain a positive perspective and give yourself grace. It’s very challenging but also rewarding to know what you are capable of as a mother and successful business professional. Most importantly, embrace the journey and celebrate the wins along the way!
Erica K. Cummings, DDS, MAGD, D-ABDSM is a board-certified general and cosmetic dentist crafting gorgeous smiles throughout The Woodlands. With 18 years of experience as a dentist, Dr. Cummings is proud to own a practice that treats its patients like family.
SERVICES OFFERED:
• General Dentistry
• Cosmetic Dentistry
• Crowns
• Dental Implant Restoration
• Sleep Apnea
• Teeth Whitening
• Full Mouth Reconstruction
• Fillings
ARTICLE BY ALEX GRAY | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Professional ballerina Aoi Fujiwara keeps her ballet bag packed with pointe shoes — ten, to be exact.
Originally from Osaka, Aoi has been with the Houston Ballet for the past decade and recently appeared as Aurora in their ethereal production of The Sleeping Beauty. Based on the well-known fairytale by Charles Perrault, The Sleeping Beauty is an enduring testament to classical ballet, with exacting technique and dreamy, fluid movements.
It was for this performance that she painstakingly readied an eye-raising ten pairs of pointe shoes, all of varying stiffness to suit the ballet’s varied scenes.
The ballet’s iconic Rose Adagio, a technically challenging scene in the first act, sees Aurora perform long, controlled balances. It’s little wonder then that Aoi keeps her bag full of pointe shoes. Fresh pairs are critical to keep up with the rigors of the art; dancers wear them down with each passé.
But while the grueling, and expensive, lives of pointe shoes could be studied at length — the New York City Ballet dances through close to 7,000 pairs a year, almost $1 million worth, according to Business Insider — it’s how Aoi came to wear pointe shoes that makes this ballerina’s story stand apart: her unexpected, immediate ability to relevé without help.
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WHAT MADE YOU WANT TO BECOME A BALLERINA?
I started ballet when I was three. But I was not really interested. I liked to dance, but compared to others, I wasn’t good enough — I felt that already. I always wanted to be the first, the best one. But I felt like I was okay. So, I was like, “Mom, I don’t like ballet.” I wanted to do swimming.
But when I first started wearing the pointe shoes, and everybody [in my ballet class] was holding the [balance] bar like crazy, I didn’t. I don’t know how I did it. From that day, my teacher started working with me more, focusing on me.
Also, my mom found out I was good, so every time I went home, she always asked me, “What did you learn today? What notes did you get from the teacher?” And then, I figured my part out. The next time we went to the class, I had already fixed it, so the teacher wanted to teach me more and more. That’s how I grew. And then, at one point, I wanted to be a ballerina.
WHAT DOES A TYPICAL DAY LOOK LIKE FOR YOU AS A PROFESSIONAL BALLERINA?
I wake up, then I need to have a good breakfast. Then, after the rehearsal, a little bit of stretching and massaging to prepare for the next day. Then, I come back and eat. I need to get a lot of protein. Sometimes, I take a bath to relax. It’s pretty simple.
HOW DO YOU KNOW WHEN YOU NEED A NEW PAIR OF POINTE SHOES? CAN YOU TELL WHEN YOU’RE DANCING?
Yes. For me, almost twice a week, I start to wear the new pair — make sure there’s stock. It’s not just that I have one pair to wear and then stop and start to wear another one. It’s more like, I wear the new one, have a couple shoes prepared, and then I decide what’s good [for the performance]. So, it depends on the act.
“When I first started wearing the pointe shoes, and everybody was holding the bar like crazy, I didn’t.”
“It was easy to become a ballerina — my mom was helping so much. She did, for me, everything. Without her, I don’t think I would’ve become a professional ballerina. I didn’t have any confidence that I could.”
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR FAVORITE PERFORMANCE THAT YOU HAVE DANCED IN?
I cannot pick. Each moment, it feels different!
WHAT HAS BEEN THE BEST PART OF YOUR EXPERIENCE OF THE SLEEPING BEAUTY ?
It’s all about the technique, but also more. I think mostly, it’s important to tell the story. So, I like to, even at home, sometimes hear the music. I’m not dancing, but I hear the music and I’m doing this kind of acting. Every time the feeling is different. I love to think about that stuff.
IS THERE SOMETHING YOU WOULD LIKE OUR READERS TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?
It was easy to become a ballerina — my mom was helping so much. She did, for me, everything. Without her, I don’t think I would’ve become a professional ballerina. I didn’t have any confidence that I could. But she really supported me. She didn’t even know how to dance ballet. I really appreciate this.
Behind each of our 200+ City Lifestyle magazines is someone who cares deeply about their community. Someone who connects people, celebrates businesses, and shares the stories that matter most. What if that someone was you?
Or maybe it’s someone you know. If this isn’t the right time for you, but you know someone who could be the perfect fit, we’d love an introduction.
Working in child welfare taught Marcella Herrera that true change happens when people unite.
She learned firsthand how whether you’re helping shape a child’s future or supporting a healthcare community, every contribution matters. Witnessing miracles unfold from such collective efforts inspired her to dedicate her life to volunteerism.
Marcella's volunteer contributions in The Woodlands make an essential difference in our community. With a career dedicated to strengthening communities — as Conservatorship Director with DFPS (Child Protective Services), she played a key role in improving CPS protocols — she is a respected nonprofit leader recognized for her strategic, hands-on approach.
Currently, she is significantly expanding the programming at Canopy Cancer Survivorship Center at Memorial Hermann The Woodlands Medical Center, where she serves as program manager. Named the Association of Junior League International’s 40 Under 40 honoree, she is also slated for international leadership on the AJLI governance committee, leveraging her expertise in program development and community engagement to inspire others to create lasting change.
ARTICLE BY DAWN ALLEN PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Through her commitment to service, Marcella’s work stands as a testament to the power of volunteerism and the influence one person can have in creating transformational change.
If you’re considering giving back to our community but are unsure how to start, Marcella offers the following advice:
Reflect on what ignites a fire within you. Are you drawn to help foster children, support cancer survivors, or promote women in leadership? When you pour your energy into a mission that fulfills
your passions, volunteering becomes more than a task — it transforms into a meaningful purpose.
Whether you lead by mentoring, organizing events, or telling inspiring stories, volunteering lets you harness your unique talents. It’s not about fitting a mold — it’s about making an impact.
Giving back doesn’t require a vast time commitment. Begin with a few hours each month. Organizations like Junior League and Child Advocates provide flexible options, letting you slowly ease into volunteering.
Through her volunteer service, Marcella forges deep bonds, from friendships to mentorships, and unlocks unexpected opportunities. By serving, she surrounds herself with inspiring, purpose-driven individuals. These connections don’t just expand your networks — they transform your outlook, filling your life with people who uplift and motivate you.
Raising your hand for leadership roles does more than benefit others — it’s a powerful avenue for your own growth. Marcella’s experience on boards and committees honed her abilities in advocacy, public speaking, and program development. She shares that the beauty of it all lies in its simplicity: she doesn’t plan for these achievements — she merely says yes when the fortuitous presents itself.
When Marcella began volunteering, she didn’t predict the path ahead. She undertook unexpected roles: leading diversity efforts, mentoring others, and shaping life-changing policies. She shares that the most meaningful opportunities often come when you step outside of your comfort zone. That’s the magic of volunteering: it transcends simply giving your time — it’s a meaningful way to make a difference in both your community and your own life. The benefits extend beyond what you give to those impacted by your efforts, affording opportunities to take away new skills, form meaningful connections, and discover a greater sense of purpose.
The journey of volunteering evolves alongside you, leaving a lasting effect not just on those you help, but on who you become!
Meredith Boudousquié Founder Creative Director
YOU ARE INVITED TO THE MONTGOMERY & NORTH HARRIS
CHAIRED BY MARI HARVEY
THURSDAY, MAY 15, 2025 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM
THE WOODLANDS WATERWAY MARRIOTT 1601 LAKE ROBBINS DR THE WOODLANDS, TX 77380
How To Build Your Spring Time Flower Beds
With sunny skies upon us, it’s time to start planting flower beds! The colorful flowers and fresh floral scents mark the beginning of Spring. It can be hard deciding what you’re going to do so we put together a guide to give you a little gardening inspiration. With everything you need to know including plant necessities and tastefully decorating your garden, we have you covered!
ARTICLE BAILEY MORRIS PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Decide on a color scheme that includes 2-3 colors that complement each other.
When choosing which plants you will use, take into consideration how tall the plants will grow and place the tallest in the back.
Different flowers have different soil requirements. Make sure you check what soil will fit your plants' needs best.
Look at the location of the flower beds. Is it in a sunny area or a shady area? Depending, make sure you choose flowers that will thrive in that area.
Create a centerpiece with some fun decor. You can use a bird bath, fountain, or even an antique wagon filled with more flowers.
MAY 1ST, 8TH, 15TH, 22ND, AND 29TH
Market Street | 5:30 PM
Live music at Market Street is back! Enjoy the 2025 Spring Concert Series every Thursday evening in May from 6:00 – 8:30 p.m. All concerts are free and open to the public. The lineup includes: May 1 – Mango Punch, May 8 – The Outsiders, May 15 – The Spicolis, May 22 – Reputation, May 29 – Nobody’s Fool. shopatmarketstreet.com/events/spring-concert-series
MAY 3RD
The Woodlands Waterway Marriott | 6:00 PM
The 12th Annual Building Hope Gala supporting Habitat for Humanity of Montgomery County, Texas will be held May 3rd at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott. The theme of this year's event is All Bets on You! All funds raised directly help families in Montgomery County achieve safe, affordable housing. habitatmctx.org/news-events/building-hope-gala.html
MAY 10TH
The Woodlands Triathlon
Northshore Park | 7:00 AM
The Woodlands Triathlon, one of the premier multi-sport events in the region, returns on Saturday, May 10th. The sprint distance triathlon is an ideal first-time race for those just being introduced to the sport. Post-race activities include a festive awards party featuring music, great food and beverages. active.com/the-woodlands-tx/running/distance-running-races/the-wooodlands-triathlon-sprint-distance-2025
MAY 15TH - 16TH
Zilka Theater at The Hobby Center | 7:30 PM
Vitacca Ballet is proud to present Smith Works, which features Vitacca Ballet Resident Choreographer Garrett Smith’s contemporary ballet works, including audience favorites: Somewhat Closer, Hypnotic Forces, After Silence and a newly created world premiere. Smith is a homegrown Houston choreographer who has gone on to international fame. Following the Friday show there will be a patron reception on stage. VitaccaBallet.org
MAY 25TH
Town Green Park | 5:00 PM
Enjoy the long holiday weekend and celebrate the official start of summer as we honor the military servicemen and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our Country. There will be live music, children’s activities, strolling entertainers, and a dazzling fireworks display choreographed to a patriotic soundtrack. thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/calendar
MAY 28TH - 31ST
All Events Held at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott
Celebrate 21 years of Wine & Food Week! With a variety of events, there is something for everyone to enjoy! Wine Around the World: Wednesday, May 28th 5:45 - 9:00p.m., Crushing It With Cocktails: Thursday, May 29th 6:00 - 9:00p.m., Sips, Suds, & Savor: Friday, May 30th 6:00 - 9:00p.m., Wine Rendezvous Grand Tasting & Chef Showcase: Saturday, May 31st 7:00 - 10:00p.m.
As Houston’s leader in stroke care, we find innovative ways to keep your brain working the way it should. Like coordinating stroke care while you are in transit. So, treatment plans can start before you get to the ER. All so you can go on living like you. This is stroke care centered around you.
memorialhermann.org/stroke
Advancing health. Personalizing care.