Upload
beaumontenterprise
View
212
Download
0
Embed Size (px)
Citation preview
7/28/2019 June VIP
1/52
volume 2 issue 4 | NovemBeR 2009 | thVIPVOLUME 6 ISSUE 9 | June 2013 | theVIPmag.
complimenta
o f s o u t h e a s t t e x a s
Summer fashion tren& must-have accessori
How to dress like a Cowg
Yr gid 15s t m
mzing, lclly-wncling ril
boutiquebon ton
SPEC
IALTEXA
SHILL
COUN
TR Y
TRAVEL
SECT
IONINSID
E !
7/28/2019 June VIP
2/52
7/28/2019 June VIP
3/52
Treat yourself.Freeze the fat.
No downtime. No anesthesia. Proven Results.
Call Today for a Complimentary Consultation
409.835.9500 - www.prevityclinic.com
7/28/2019 June VIP
4/52
EaEditor
DAVID [email protected]
Contributing WritersCATHLEEN COLE
AmANDA COrbELL
LArENA HEADgrACE mATHISjANE mCbrIDE
HOLLI pETErSENCHEryL rOSE
Editorial AssistantLAurEN mCgEE
PapContributing Photographers
SCOTT ESLINgErLACIE grANT
rEN SHEppArDLEE E. STINSON
Graphic Designer
DAVID CONSTANTINE
AveTo advetise in VIP,
409.880.0700
Cac UVIP of Southeast Texas
380 main Steetbeaont, TX 77701
to sUbsCribE
pLEASE CALL 409.838.2821 Or SubSCrIbEONLINE AT www.THEVIpmAg.COm
to disPlAy thE mAgAzinE
AT yOur buSINESS LOCATION,pLEASE CALL 409.838.2821
sUbmissions
TO SubmIT AN EVENT, OrgANIzATION Or pErSOfOr CONSIDErATION IN AN upCOmINg ISSuE,
SubmIT ONLINE AT www.THEVIpmAg.COm Or [email protected] by uSpS AT ADDrESS AbOVE.
A dv f hea newpapePublisher
mArK ADKINS
jOIN uS ON fACEbOOK!.aceook.co/thevia
on the coverThis month, VIP asked 15 area clothing boutiques to put togetherfashion shoots to show off their unique take on fashion. On the cover,NV Boutique in downtown Beaumont worked with model Essica Barteeof Beaumont, makeup artist Shamekka Thomas and VIP photographerLacie Grant, to produce this fun shredded denim look. See the otherboutique fashion starting on page 13.
c o n t e n t s
vip magazine
06 vi stle06 Summers must-have
accessories
08 How to dress like a
modern cowgirl
11 viesonalit11 Model student:
Tyler Chesson
13 vi oth13 15 of Southeast Texas
best boutiques
32 Summers hottest
fashion trends
33 vi sotliht33 SE Texas events
38 vi leise38 Great dates in the
Texas Hill Country
39 Exploring Austins live
music scene
42 The San Antonio
Riverwalk
44 How to spend a day in
Fredericksburg
48 vi advise48 Great dates this month
49 Crossword puzzle
50 vi voices50 Finding your inner
style
insidejune
0611
38
4 June 2013 | theVIPmag.com
7/28/2019 June VIP
5/52
3030 North St., Suite 340 | www.setxweightloss.org | 409.839.LOSE (5673)
Since my procedure, Im schooling others onthe benefits of weight loss surgery.
AmandaGastric Sleeve Surgery
As a school principal. Amanda knows life is all about choices. She knew she made
the right one after losing 100 pounds following weight loss surgery. Now she happily
shares her knowledge with others interested in choosing it for themselves. Like any true
academic, Amanda did her research and learned the answer was close to home at the
CHRISTUS Southeast TexasBariatric Center theonly hospital in Southeast Texas to be designatedas a Bariatric
Surgery Center of Excellence. She was confident our highly skilled surgeons and staff were uniquely qualified
to help her safely and permanently achieve her weight loss goals. To learn if weight loss surgery is right foryou, ask your doctor. Or, if you end up in the principals office, ask Amanda. Better yet, contact the specialists
at the CHRISTUS Southeast Texas Bariatric Center, located on the CHRISTUS Hospital St. Elizabeth campus.
AmandaGastric Sleeve Surgery
7/28/2019 June VIP
6/52
summerF
rom poolside lounging to summer soires, the warm weather welcomes bright hues, playful patterns and seasonal beauty products. As the temperaturheats up, accessories become our best friend, offering not only style, but also protection from the elements. In the form chic sandals, classic shades a
multi-purpose tote bags, here are a few reasons why we love summer.
a c c e s s o r i e s
vp adviser
compiled by Larena Head | photography by Lee e. stinson andmanufacturers
3
4
14
5
6
16
7
17
10
21
6 June 2013 | theVIPmag.com
7/28/2019 June VIP
7/52
musts!
From Ulta Beauty: 1. Lorac Island TANtalizer Creamy Body Oil, $30. 2. Hope In A Jar Oil-Free Moisturizer, $40. 3. Neutrogena Beach Defense SPF 30 Spray, $10. 4. Sun Bum SPF
50 Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion, $16. From LUXE Boutique: 5. Mint Stella Archer sandal, DV by Dolce Vita, $60. From Dillards: 6. MK plate sandal, MICHAEL Michael Kors, $99.
7. Damita wedge, MICHAEL Michael Kors, $110. 8. Miller wedge, Lucky Brand, $79. 9. Abstract plaid-print scarf, BCBGMAXAZRIA, $38. 10. Metal aviator sunglasses, Marc by Marc
Jacobs, $98. 11. Oversized glam sunglasses, Coach, $148. 12. Sinamay feather fascinator, Kate Landry, $28. 13. Circle base fascinator, Kate Landry, $58. From Ella+Scott: 14. Stfedora, $20. 15. Beach lounge cover, $34. 16. Beach cover-up, $34. 17. Party cooler, $28. From Hazel House: 18. Austin cargo bag, Haul Couture, $119. 19. Suzy cargo bag, H
Couture, $129 From La-Tee-Da: 20. Wire-brim hat, $36. 21. Black and white oppy hat, $36
1
11
2
12
13
15
8
18
9
19
20
theVIPmag.com | June 2013
7/28/2019 June VIP
8/52
Babys got her blue jeans on
The classic look is cowboy boots
with jeans. There are two ways to
go: under or over.
Wear your boots under your
jeans to give you a cowgirl-casual
look. Go for boot-cut jeans, not
straight legs, to make room for the
top of the boot.This look makes
your legs look long and thin.
Wear your boots over a pair of
skinny jeans or straight-leg jeans
to show off your awesome cowboy
boots, especially if theyve got
some bling.
Dress it up
In the spring and summer, pair
your cowboy boots with a cute,
ouncy, owery dress and showoff your country footwear and your
shapely legs. Go with an above-the-
knee number, but no extreme minis.
Another option is a simple,
classic dress with cowboy boots.
Try a sleeveless, sleek black dress
or another solid shade that will
complement your boots. Dont
overdo the jewelry keep it simple.
If tights feel right
This was a popular look at theHouston Livestock Show and Rodeo
back in February and March, ac-
cording to Debbie Bonura, a sales
associate at Sams Western Store
in Beaumont. If you love leggings
or tights, go for it! Try a brightly
colored pair with your boots and a
classic dress. They look cute with
spring dresses too. Keep the colors
in your outt simple dont go too
wild.The cowboy boots are the
main attraction in this ensemble.
Style and comfort
The style has to feel right as
well. If the pointed-toe, high-heel
version is comfortable for you, then
embrace this sleek look. But you
might want to try the less sleek but
still cute square-toe, at-heel style.
I love the square toe now, Bonura
said of her boot style of choice, not-
ing that she wore pointed-toe, high-
heel boots in her younger days.
Top off the look
If youre going to wear the boots
you might as well go for the icing o
the cake and get a cowboy hat too
Felt hats are hot, so theyre
mainly worn in the fall and winter.
Down here in Southeast Texas, a
felt hat is basically a dress hat, sa
Charles Solano, manager of SamsWestern Store.Straw hats are wo
all year-round.
Wear your cowboy hat parallel t
the ground, not tilted back on your
head. It should t comfortably and
snugly with no slipping. If it feels to
tight, get the next larger size. You
dont want your cool cowboy hat to
give you a headache.
Cowboy hats are mainly unisex,
appropriate for men or women. Co
and trim can be the deciding facto
of whether its for a colt or a lly.
All these hats are accents for
your attire, Solano said.
Whoa, cowgirl
Cowboy boots and a cowboy ha
can be country-chic accessories to
your wardrobe. Just dont overdo
it no rhinestone-decorated shirts
and neckerchiefs.And unless you
won it, skip the trophy-sized belt
buckle. You dont want to look like
youre trying out for a part in the
local production of Oklahoma!
b o o t f a s h i o n
vip style
Cowgirl Cooltext by CATHLEEN COLENo horse? No problem. This is Texasand you can wear cowboy bootsand hats whenever you darnwell please! There are, however,
some tips you should keep in
mind to stay cowgirl cool.
Cowgirl up!
Cowgirls were just as big a part
of winning the West as cowboys.
Even if you dont ride, you can show
your cowgirl pride by wearing your
stylish cowboy boots and cowboy
hat. You go, cowgirl! VIP
8 June 2013 | theVIPmag.com
7/28/2019 June VIP
9/52
theVIPmag.com | June 2013
medical spa & laser centerskinologie@ baptist hospital, 810 hospital dr., suite 100Call today! 409.833.0342 www.skinologie.com
botoxfridays
NEW PATIENT SPECIAL: $55 microdermabrasion and skin consult
summers here!
start your
weekends with
GIVING YOUR FURNITURE NEW LIFE
Refnishing/Repairs Upholstery Furniture StrippingWater & Fire Damage Restoration
Decorative Finishes
835-35351347 Park St. Beaumont
Restoring furniture for Southeast Texans for over 25 Years
7/28/2019 June VIP
10/52
10 June 2013 | theVIPmag.com
Serving Bolivar Peninsula for Over 60 YearsSALES RENTALS PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
1-800-624-0071 www.swedesrealestate.com
REAL ESTATE
Swedes
Welcome to Gulf Coast MarketThe Big Store
in Crystal Beach, Texaswhere you can find just about everything
under the sun! They dont call usThe Big Store for nothin-theres no
other place on the Bolivar Peninsula whereyou can find both 1-1/2 inch screws and 1-1/2 inch
T-Bone Steaks all in the same place!
At The Big Store we pride ourselves onquality products, a huge selecon and personal service.
Were like a coastal village all under one roof:
banking, shopping, hardware and hairdos...from fresh meats and produce to fishing
rods and RV supplies; from beer andwine to beachwear and souvenirs; from small
appliances to pao grills and furniture.We have everything to make your beach
vacaon a blast, your house a home,or your next dinner party a hit!
2385 Highway 87 Crystal Beach, TX 409-684-2400Sunday - Thursday 7 AM - 9 PM Friday - Saturday 7 AM - 9:30 PM
thebigstorecrystalbeach.com
7/28/2019 June VIP
11/52
text by CATHLEEN COLE
When Tyler
Chessons
grandmoth-
er oered
to pay for
modeling school, the lanky eighth
grader from Vidor accepted. I
was always the tallest and really
skinny, she remembered.
a odelstudentTle Chessonloves to odel, utschool coes fst
t y l e r c h e s s o n
versonality
It didnt take long before shestarted getting jobs including moeling for a look book for Foreve21. She worked hard, but didnt t
her modeling too seriously. It wmore like doing it for fun, she saModeling has been my hobby.
What 22-year-old Chesson dotake very seriously is her educatiAfter graduating from Vidor HighSchool, she attended Lamar Univsity and earned a bachelors degrin speech and hearing science in2012 at the age of 21. Shes startithe masters program at Lamarin speech-language pathology inAugust. I really want a mastersdegree maybe a Ph.D., she saidadding that she loves school.
She also loves being a wife.The former Tyler Brewer marriedCole Chesson last August. I kneexactly what I wanted, she said the traits she looked for in a manI had a checklist. The coupleenjoys going to the gym togetherand kayaking at Village Creek StaPark. Theyre currently buildinga house in Vidor. Im the wifey-type, she explained, and I wanbe a young mom too. But not toosoon. Last year, she decided to gemore serious about modeling andpHOTOgrApHy by SimON gENTry
theVIPmag.com | June 2013
7/28/2019 June VIP
12/52
signed with Houston-based model and tal-
ent agency Page Parkes Corp.
The brown-haired, blue-eyed Chesson
has modeled for lots of boutiques look
books and a boxing gym in Louisiana.
Shes shown o everything from tness
clothing to haute couture. But she wont,
under any circumstance, model lingerie or
be photographed nude. I dont want lin-
gerie or nudity to dene me, she said. Her
strict parents also had an inuence. My
parents said, Dont ever take your clothes
o, she remembered.At 5-feet-10-inches and 120 pounds,
Chesson doesnt have to work hard to
keep thin. Im just made that way, she
noted. I dont have to work out. But she
is careful about what she eats. I eat super
clean just natural stu, she said, adding
that she likes fresh fruits, vegetables and
lean meats. She avoids foods with lots of
carbohydrates such as pastas and breads.
Shes not your typical model, said
Simon Gentry, a Houston-based fashion
photographer and owner of The Photo-
booth on Montrose. Shes the unassuming
type. He explained that print modeling
is very dierent from runway modeling inthat the model must be completely at ease
in front of the camera. Somebodys either
comfortable in front of the camera or
theyre not, he noted. She didnt change
once the camera was in her face. Gentry
enjoyed Chessons quirky personality dur-
ing their photo shoot, too, adding, Shes
an absolute goofball.
The goal-oriented model and student
has grown up fast by choice not because
anyone else was pushing her. This
is all me, she said. She describes
herself as outgoing and friendly. Im
super motivated, she emphasized.
Im going to achieve my goals no
matter what.
Her advice to aspiring models is
to contact local photographers and set
up some photo shoots to start building a
portfolio. Shell also tell them the pros and
cons of the modeling business. The pros
include the positive feedback from friends
and family members. A lot of people
believe in me, she said. The new people
to meet and places to go can also be a plus.
The cons include not getting paid for work
while youre trying to build your portfolio.
Then there are the people trying to get
you naked, she warned. She once had an
oer to do a photo shoot with a photog-
rapher whod been published in Vogue
magazine. You have to be open to things,
he told her, referring to being photo-
graphed nude. She didnt see it that way.
We did not end up shooting together, she
noted.
One of her long-term goals is to try out
for the Tyra Banks-hosted television show
Americas Next Top Model after she
nishes graduate school. She knows she
might not make it, she said, but I want to
say that I tried. VIP
12 June 2013 | theVIPmag.com
7/28/2019 June VIP
13/52
boutique bon ton
W
hile there is no shortage of chain retail stores in Southeast Texas, the savvy (and well-dressed) shopper knows the
truly unique nds are in the areas abundant supply of boutique clothiers. This month, VIP asked 15 locally-owned
boutiques to each put together a fashion shoot that exemplies its personality, offerings and unique perspective onfashion. We hope the following pages inspire you to explore and shop Southeast Texas boutiques.
s h o p p i n g
vip worthy
>>
theVIPmag.com | June 2013
Get Ready for the Winners
Readers Choice Winnerswill be announced on
Sunday, June 30!
2013
7/28/2019 June VIP
14/52
NVBoutique690 Orleans, Beaumont
www.facebook.com/nv690
409.835.8994
At NV Boutique in
downtown Beaumont,
Claudette Alexander
hopes that you will n
something unique to make them
envy you. Located in the historic
Gus Mayer building, the eclectic
boutique offers vintage and mod
designs. Alexander also customiz
many pieces before she puts the
out on the showroom oor.
Our denim is really popular,
Alexander. Using denim pieces f
the 80s to current time, we do a
of customization studding, omb
discoloration, and shredding. We
do it to any jeans or denim, canv
or cotton fabric.
NV offers womens garments
range from loungewear to profes
sional attire to vintage wedding
dresses. Men can nd a selectio
in a variety of styles as well. For
each and every customer we can
a styling consultation if desired
we help them from start to nish
Alexander said.
Alexander has been creating
and designing for over 18 years
like to support local creatives, an
I like doing what I want to do, sh
explained. Having this business
successful could encourage othe
to have businesses in downtown
We have all these beautiful build
not being utilized. You dont have
go to Houston to get things that
really current we offer them he
Grace Mathis
Model: Essica Bartee
pho
tography
bylaciegraNt
14 June 2013 | theVIPmag.com
7/28/2019 June VIP
15/52
Luxe Boutique4036 Dowlen Rd., Beaumont Facebook .com/LUXEBEAUMONT 409.239.5561
April Duplantis studied fashion and retail merchandising at Lamar Uni-
versity before interning for a year at a local boutique. In April, 2012, she
opened a shop she believed would ll a much-needed niche.
So many women go out of town to shop or order online. I wanted
to bring more options to Beaumont by offering things that are trending in L.A. andthat you see in magazines but cant nd here. Now, you can.
April is most condent in classic styles that suit her personality. But while at
market, the last thing she looks at is what she would wear.
If I did that, everything in the store would be black and white, she laughs.
She prefers up-to-the-moment fashion a style she calls classic with a
contemporary edge. I am constantly buying fashion magazines and watching
Entertainment News because I love fashion so much. It gives me an edge on what
women my age are looking for now. Luxe carries Esley, Glan, and personal faves
BCBG and DL1961 denim. She also carries Dolce Vita shoes, a line beloved by
celebrities but which are affordable. In addition to clothing and shoes, shoppers
will nd handbags, hair accessories, jewelry and scarves. Jane McBride
theVIPmag.com | June 2013
7/28/2019 June VIP
16/52
HannahBays4343 Lincoln Ave., Groveswww.hannahbaysclothing.com409.962.3400
C
heryll Moreau, the owner of
Hannah Bays, wants to help
customers step out of their
box. We have sophisticated
fashion with an attitude, she said. We
want you to look like you but feel differ-
ent.
With clothing in a wide range of sizes
and styles, Moreau hopes to offer some-
thing other than the same old, same
old. You can nd anything from Flax linen
items to trendy party dresses. The shoe
selection is fairly large for a boutique, and
includes popular brands such as Jessica
Simpson and Fergie.
Jewelry lines include Brighton and
Avant Garde. The newest addition is
Sorrelli, an antique-inspired line that
is guaranteed for life. You will also nd
Jimmy Crystal sunglasses, earrings and
readers.
Local artists create many of the unique
gift items. One such line is called Forever
Girlie and includes incredible smelling wax
melts along with warmers.
Most important to Moreau is that you
feel good in what you get from Hannah
Bays. I want to offer something that
when you put it on, somebodys
gonna say where did you get that?
Grace Mathis
Model: Brooke Shimek
photography
bylaciegrant
16 June 2013 | theVIPmag.com
7/28/2019 June VIP
17/52
The PurpleDoor6474 Phelan BlvdThepurpledoor.com
(409) 832-9200
Michelle Ferguson believehigh fashion shouldnt h
to come at a high price.
Purple Door Boutique ca
ries clothing lines like Double Zero, Ve
and Umgee.
If you have several children, when
go shopping you can spend a fortune.
When a woman shops in my store, she
can afford an entire outt, not just one
piece. Our tops start at $16 and go up
to $40. Pants and jeans are $16 to $3
although we have some that are more
expensive.Michelle welcomes shopping advice
from her teenage daughter, Shelby, wh
tracks trends, though the shop also ca
ries pieces for women 30 and up.
In addition to clothing, jewelry, belts
and shoes, the boutique rents luxury
handbags from Louis Vitton, Chanel an
Gucci for $45 to $100 or more a week
Most women feel too guilty to spen
$600 to $2,700 for a bag. This way, th
can rent one for a special event.
Shelby suggested offering a 10%
discount to any shopper wearing PurpDoor T-shirts, a promotional idea Mich
thought was inventive and savvy.
It was all her idea. Jane McB
photography
bylaciegranT
Model: Kendra Cormier
theVIPmag.com | June 2013
7/28/2019 June VIP
18/52
photography
bylaciegrant
18 June 2013 | theVIPmag.com
7/28/2019 June VIP
19/52
Flu Cic4300 Lincoln Avenue, Suite 4, Groveswww.facebook.com/eurdechic409.886.2442
When Candace Harrison re-
turned to Orange from her
time living in London, San
Francisco and Houston,
she was in for a fashion shock.I hadnt
shopped mass produced stores in a long
time, Harrison recalls. My mom and I
were talking one day and she said if you
want to start up a store, Ill do it with you.
Along with her mother Ginger, Candace
now owns Fleur de Chic, recently moved
from Orange to Lincoln Avenue in Groves.
She calls her style contemporary tradi-
tional. I dont feel like were so modern
that it puts people off, but its not what
your grandma would wear. Its comfortable
and chic. My favorite thing is leggings
with an oversized top and shoes.
Everything from leggings to date night
apparel, shoes and handbags are avail-
able, in a broad range of colors and sizes.
In fact, some items are available up to
size 24.
Harrison hopes her store appeals to
all kinds of people. We want it to be
accessible as far as affordability. We
want everyone to be chic, no matter their
pocketbook size. We have something for
everyone any person, any size, any
age. We work hard every day changing
mindsets. Grace Mathis
Model: Candace Harrison (owner)
A Littl Bit Gauy2496 Martin Luther King Dr Suite F, Orangewww.alittlebitgaudy.com/409.988.0030
Over the past 10 years, Shelly Adams grew her business, A Little Bit Gaudy, from a corner of her
husbands hair salon to a chain that she hopes to franchise the world over. Now incorporated, she
also operates a shop in Sulfur, LA. She has trademarked and patented A Little Bit Gaudy and her
Gaudie Girl label, which includes a haircare line of shampoo, conditioner, mousse and hairspray.
A Little Bit Gaudy carries everything from bling ip ops to formal costume jewelry sets to shiny hiney
jeans, as Adams lovingly calls them. When I rst started business there was no one like me around. Theres
more than one person who likes buying and selling gaudy material, she observed.
Its just fashion with attitude, said Adams. You want to look classy yet happy. I am not above wearing a pairof bright orange platform shoes. If I want to do that, Ill do it proudly.
Adams is most proud of her loyal customers who have stuck with her over the past 10 years. She will give
her number to customers and come in after hours to give them one-on-one attention. The best surprise is the
customer loyalty and the company growing. Its a blessing. Grace Mathis
Model: Shelly Adams (owner)
photography by ren sheppArd
theVIPmag.com | June 2013
7/28/2019 June VIP
20/52
Bella Bella5925 Phelan Blvd., Beaumontwww.facebook.com/pages/Bella-Bella-Boutique409.860.1924
Just as the name implies, Bella Bella is known forbeautiful and elegant special occasion fashion.
Susan Geyser opened the boutique in 2004, after
owning the Caterpillar Childrens Shop for eight
years. Ive always loved fashion, Geyser said.I never
wanted to do anything else.
After she graduated from Texas Christian University with a
fashion merchandising degree, Geyser worked in the buying
department of Neiman Marcus and later managed the ac-
cessories department at the Galleria location in Houston.
In Beaumont, she changed her stores focus as her
daughters, Kristin and Tiffany, grew up. Now both women
work with Geyser at Bella Bella.As a former debutante and
social chairwoman of the Neches River Festival, Geyser isvery informed about all the events in town, keeping only
limited numbers of each dress and tracking who is wearing
what to which occasion to avoid duplication. Though prom,
wedding and special event elegance is her niche, she also
carries fun and casual lines including Lily Pulitzer and Milly.
What I enjoy most is seeing the people every day,Gey-
ser said.They are not just customers, most are friends. And
I do love the clothes. Whenever I hear a customer say, this is
so beautiful, it makes me feel really good. Cheryl Rose
Model: Allison Smith p h o t o g r a p h y
b y
S c o t t E S l i n g E r
20 June 2013 | theVIPmag.com
7/28/2019 June VIP
21/52
theVIPmag.com | June 2013
Publishing August 11th, 2013
7/28/2019 June VIP
22/52
L-T-D4004 Dowlen Rd., Beaumont
Facebook.com/La-Tee-Da-Beaumont
409.835.0202
Michael Manuel has spen
career helping women o
ages and sizes feel bea
ful, rst as a hairstylist t
as a boutique owner. At La-Tee-Da, he
specializes in natural ber clothing, mo
linen and cotton, from small to Plus siz
I like clothes with a air; Victorian aBohemian-inspired fashions, with lots
color, layers, lace, rufes and embel-
lishments, he says. A lot of people a
insecure in their weight. I love working
with women, especially those plus size
because I want them to feel sure in wh
they are and what they look like. The u
structured cuts, with loose t and ow
lines, allow women to be fashionable a
embrace their beauty.
La-Tee-Da carries Flax, Steel Pony,
Matchpoint, LaFixsun, Winter Sun and
artisan wear California line, J.T. and Mtie, which is handmade and hand-dyed
with vegetable dye, then dried in the s
Accessories include Leader Handbags
Mary Frances purses, Jimmy Crystal
watches and sunglasses,Yellow Box a
Grazie shoes and jewelry by Treska.
The boutique also carries Visconti a
Robert Graham clothing for men, from
medium-6X. Jane McBride
Model: Dana Batiste
photography by Lacie granT
22 June 2013 | theVIPmag.com
7/28/2019 June VIP
23/52
Jackies6755 Phelan Blvd, Beaumontwww.facebook.com/pages/Jack-ies/131581243536388409.861.5762
G
rowing up in Beaumont,
Jackie Jackson knew she
wanted to own a fashion
boutique from the timeshe was 14 years old. After several
years working for local reneries, she
made that dream come true by opening
Jackies in 2006.
I just feel that God has been in this
since the beginning, she said. Im living
my dream. I wont say it is all easy, you
have to put everything into it, but I love
what I do. I love when customers walk
out saying how much fun they had.
Jackie travels to multiple fashion
buying shows a year to personally select
her inventory. She often works as a buyerand stylist for her customers, having
strong relationships and trust with them,
including clients as far aeld as Dallas
and Florida. Jackies clothing and acces-
sories combine structured basics with
clean lines to more unusual brands with
air. Jackies is the exclusive retailer of
Rodrigo Otazu jewelry, eye-catching, gor-
geous statement pieces. Cheryl Rose
Model: Rashonda Davis
h
h
b
theVIPmag.com | June 2013
7/28/2019 June VIP
24/52
Splash ofKarma1219 Boston Ave., Nederlandwww.facebook.com/pages/Splash-of-Karma
409.724.1196
D
uring the feather craze, Jes-
sica Stansbury started makinghandcrafted feather jewelry.
That endeavor led her to open
Splash of Karma in November 2011. Her
grandmother was the inspiration behind
everything from the aesthetic to the name.
She was a very stylish, eclectic woman
whether in home furnishings or outts,
remembered Stansbury. She inspired me
everyday.
Stansbury chooses what catches
her eye, whether its a bold pattern or a
bright color. Not one to follow trends, she
gravitates towards items that stand outand are slightly different. She carries a
blend of daywear into party wear that can
be enhanced with unique accessories.
The Irregular Choice shoes are some
of Stansburys favorite items. Modern with
an everyday twist, Splash of Karma is one
of the few retailers in the area that carry
them.
A truly bohemian feel is prevalent at
Splash of Karma. I want a customer
to come in here and look for a different
type of retail experience, said Stans-
bury. From the dcor to the clothes tothe home accessories, I want them to
come in and know theyre surrounded by
something different. I want them to kinda
feel like theyre in Houston or Austin but in
a small town. Grace Mathis
Model: Jessica Stansbury (owner)
h t h
b l a c i e g r a n t
24 June 2013 | theVIPmag.com
7/28/2019 June VIP
25/52
YaYa Club414 Dowlen Rd., Beaumonthttp://www.yayaclubclothing.com409.861.3341
A
ngie McClelland learned the
retail fashion business at her
mothers knee. She worked
at Le Boudoir Center Stagein Orange for her mother, Diana Hill,
throughout her youth.After graduating
with a business degree from the University
of Texas, McClelland moved to California,
where she began a job for Mica Dress as
a receptionist. Within 18 months, she had
been promoted to national sales manager.
I was very passionate and though I was
working in wholesale, I thought like a
retailer, she said. I remembered the
struggles and trials of my mom, which
made me a really good salesperson.
With two partners, McClelland openedve retail stores in California, later sell-
ing her share when she moved back to
Beaumont. Though she seriously pursued
becoming a federal drug enforcement
agent, ultimately she stayed with fashion
and opened Ya Ya Club in 2002, bringing
something very different to Beaumont.
When we opened, we brought in fash-
ion at a price point that is very affordable
and created a girly, feminine place to shop
thats funky and spiritual, a sisterhood,
she said. Thats why we call it the club.
Women love women to give their approval.Its really the experience we sell.
Cheryl Rose
Model: Taylor Hughes.
photography
by
SCottESlingEr
theVIPmag.com | June 2013
7/28/2019 June VIP
26/52
Ella +Scott460 MLK, Beaumont
www.shopellascott.com
409.835.8280
A
For Lease sign at
the Mildred Building
galvanized Jamie Scott of
Beaumont to embark on a
childhood dream of owning a fash-
ion boutique. The building reected
her tastes for casual sophistication,
pairing beautiful details with vintage
personality. The former real estate
agent opened Ella + Scott in May
2011, combining her name with her
grandmothers.
Growing up in Nederland, Jamie
loved clothes and was known to
change outts 10 times a day. She
became intrigued with owning her
own business after taking an entre-
preneurship course while attending
Lamar University.
She personally selects every item
in her store. She believes that suc-
cessful fashion is about personal-
ity and t, rather than labels and
price tags. We really strive to help
customers with a personal touch,
she said. Not just to pick out a shirt,
for example, but fashion tips on how
to style that item from head to foot.
Cheryl Rose
Model: Alex Ramano
ph
otographybyScottESlingEr
26 June 2013 | theVIPmag.com
7/28/2019 June VIP
27/52
7/28/2019 June VIP
28/52
PoBby5955 Phelan Blvd Beaumont, TX 77706www.poshbabyco.com(409) 860-3331
When Erica Novak
was raising her chil-
dren, she traveled
to Houston to nd
custom bedding and design for their
rooms. She decided to ll that gap
in the local market and six years ago
opened Posh Baby.
Soon, the business expanded into
childrens clothing and Novak began
to receive requests for adult clothing
in the same style as her bedding
traditional with a touch of shabby
chic. Two years ago, she expanded
her business with Posh & Co, which
features accessories, clothing and
bedding for adults.
Novak declares herself obsessed
with jeans. I call myself the jean
whisperer, she said. A good pair
of jeans can make you feel really
good about yourself. I feel like with
couture jeans, the quality is better
the denim is thicker, the stretch
is better, it gives better in the right
spots. The jean selection at Posh
& Co. includes a lot of colored and
skinny jeans, some even with a high
waist. We have a good selection
that has something for every body
type, Novak said.
For those looking to stand out
by the pool, Posh & Co. is offering
swimsuits this summer from design-
ers including Lauren Moffatt, Maria
Bonita from Columbia and Gypsy.
Grace Mathis
Model: Kayla Robinsonphotography by ren shePPard
28 June 2013 | theVIPmag.com
7/28/2019 June VIP
29/52
PurseStrings6385 Calder Ave Ste F, Beaumontwww.purse-strings.com(409) 866-9742
Twenty-ve years ago, with
no plan in mind, SharonThomas rented out a small
space in The Green Beanery
in Old Town Beaumont selling acces-
sories. Today, Purse Strings is going
strong in its current location, selling
rened casual clothing and high qual-
ity bags and jewelry.
We hand pick each piece of jew-
elry, she said. I dont like to match
everything. If it comes as a matching
earring and necklace set, I dont want
to see it. Most of the jewelry lines
at Purse Strings use semi-preciousstones and sterling silver and will re-
place and repair broken pieces. Chan
Luu is a favorite jewelry line with
celebrities that has recently gained
popularity in Southeast Texas. Purse
Strings has carried it for 15 years.
Many of Thomass customers have
been shopping at the store for more
than 20 years. That is how she would
like it, because she wants to help
customers build a wardrobe that will
last.We mostly do separates so you
can mix and match these things foryears and its not as recognizable. Put
it with different pants or a jacket and
jewelry, and it looks brand new.
Grace Mathis
Model: Cynthia Fontenot
photography
by
ren
ShePPard
theVIPmag.com | June 2013
7/28/2019 June VIP
30/52
GaudieCouture1140 Boston Ave., Nederlandwww.gaudieandco.com/409.729.2790
A
my VanPelt opened Gaudie and
Co. nine years ago. Two years
later, due to an overwhelm-ing demand for clothing, she
opened Gaudie Couture across the street.
At Gaudie Couture, its intimate
and small, she explained. Most of our
customers come in on a weekly basis. The
customer goes in the dressing room and
we start pulling for them. Our clothes are
for everyday, in a variety of settings. We
dress people for work, the rodeo, gradua-
tion photos, engagement photos.
VanPelt enjoys selling one-of-a-kind
clothing and giving one-on-one attention
to customers. I think thats what wereknown for. We know their rst names,
their kids, whats going on in their lives. A
lot of them come into socialize even.
One of her favorite accessory lines is
Kendra Scott, a jewelry company started
in Austin that features chunky turquoise
and coral pieces. Her favorite pant line
is KUT, with prices under $100 and a
attering t.
I do what I do because I have three
kids, said VanPelt. I dont want to miss
out on anything in their lives and this job
gives me the opportunity to work, traveland still be with my kids. Its never boring
and dull, its fun. Grace Mathis
Model: Kourtney Benoit
30 June 2013 | theVIPmag.com
7/28/2019 June VIP
31/52
theVIPmag.com | June 2013
Stop by the Ashton Houseto explore the
Juan Antonio collection. These handbags, belts, and walle
are simply stated and beautifully crafted with tooled leath
Coming in a variety of styles, there is sure to be one that i
the perfect accessory to your Summer style.
Ashton House
6250 Phelan Boulevard, Beaumont, TX
409-860-7233
Call today for a CONSULTATION
Compatibility& PsychologicalAssessments
Background Checks
Also Offering:
Personal Discovery/LifeCoaching
Relationship & Image Consulting
SETX Premier Dating Club
StephanieHaynes-Millican
CEO/Matchmaker
Specialist
www.trumatchmaker.com
409-861-1517
www.burnsankhaus.com
At Burns Antik Haus, you will fnd stunning hand-selected
items rom all over Europe. You wont fnd better value or more
beautiul pieces anywhere.
Tues-Thurs 10am-5pm Fri-Sat 10am-3pm
409.835.3080
Cat5 is available to check out every Thursadayin the Beaumont Enterprise and it is distributed
to the top locations in theGolden Triangle.
thecat5.com
The best spot to fnd out what is going on with the
latest trends in dining, night life, music, art, events,and fashion in the Southeast Texas and SouthwestLouisiana areas.
Are You An AspiringVIP magazine is looking for male and female models to shoot for future covers and fashion spreads.
If you want to work with some of the best photographers in Southeast Texas while building your portfoland gaining important modeling experience, send a photo of yourself and
contact information to [email protected].
For Heavens Sake
4190 Calder Avenue, Beaumont
409-898-3340
Juliska
Country Estate Delft Blue
5fabulous findsRetailers we love and their
merchandise we love to have!
Thursday
7/28/2019 June VIP
32/52
f a s h i o n
vip adviser
SUMMERFASHIONTRENDStext by Cheryl rose
Coral and teal were the popular spring fashion colors this year,
according to Reva Broussard, the visual sales manager for
Dillards at Parkdale Mall in Beaumont, but her preview of
summer 2013 is for bold colors. This month you can
expect to see more vibrant colors on our oor, she
said. This will include brighter hues of vivid blues (think cobalt),
glowing greens, energetic shades of orange (like tangerine) and
pops of pink.
As for fabrics, its all about fabrics that breathe, in her
opinion. You can expect to see a lot of knits. Youll see
things that have good movement, pieces that ow when
you move, such as maxi dresses.
Accessories will feature prints inspired by tribal pat-
terns, geometric shapes and nautical stripes, she an-
ticipates. For shoes, she is seeing chunkier heels,
with wedges and platforms being the summer
trend. Swimsuits arrived in the store in Febru-
ary, in advance of spring break. We have the
best swim shop in the area with collections
from our private label brands like Antonio
Melani and Gianni Bini and collections
from designer brands including Lucky
and Kenneth Cole, Broussard said.
32 June 2013 | theVIPmag.com
7/28/2019 June VIP
33/52
s e t e x a s e v e n t s
vip spotlight
Champagne and Ribs
Melinda Wilson and Kellye Perez
Margaret and Judge Larry Thorne
Stella and Don Taft
Jim and Pam Willis Roy and Trisha West Erin Nichols, Brian Glenn and Jessica Guidr y
Jennifer Walsh and Paul Bergen
Garrett Syphrett and Candice Walters
Suzanne Montondon and Kevin Steele
Becky Hunter, Kathy and Joey Catalano
Helen Francie, Georgine Guillory, Morline Guillory, Alma Garza-Cruz
Rob Base, Patricia Dubea, Mick Dubea and Brett ManArthur and Sondra Louis
theVIPmag.com | June 2013
7/28/2019 June VIP
34/52
LobsterFest
Sally and Brian Broussard Amber Woodard, Jeramy Webb
Kenneth and Tara Vincent, Dale and Don Champagne
Janet Todd, Wayne CookDonavon Anderson, CortNy Lewis
Malana Hearn, Jaylea Hearn, Jay James
Pam and Phil Young
Vivianne and Chip Majors
Ruthie andJonathanWolfe
Teri Duncan, James Johnson
Karen Burkhardt, Earl FrostPat and Ray Satterwhite Jennifer Simmons, Margaret Brinkley
David Thornhill, Sue Gilbert, Steve Gilbert
laciegrant
34 June 2013 | theVIPmag.com
7/28/2019 June VIP
35/52
Christus Gala
Mary Green and Charlie West Kassi Harmon and Todd Ellison
Tara and Charlie Holder Peggy and Jeff Guillor y
Dr. Tom and Jan Molina Chip and Vivianne Majors
Daniel & Abigail Duplichin, Bonnie Graham, Audrey Petrie, Randy & Peggy Hefy, Alex Balleza
Gary and Rachel Linthicum Garret and Nichola Gerland
leee.
stinson
theVIPmag.com | June 2013
Great rental properties just waiting
for you to create memories.
CRYSTAL BEACH REALTY
3120 Hwy 87 Crystal Beach (409) 684-7421
Larry Cain,Broker
Experience the resort feeling without the price!
Te Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites
Beaumont Plaza
Te Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites
Beaumont Plaza
Let us share in planning your next event!Contact our professional sales department.
3950I 10 South @ Walden Road
Beaumont, TX 77705
Phone: (409) 842-5995 Fax: (409) 842-7810
www.holidayinn.com/beaumont-plaza
7/28/2019 June VIP
36/52
Arc CelebrityStyle Show
PreservationBash
Brandon Pharris, Kelly Phillips, Matt Bloodsworth, Bob Phillips Angela Bloodsworth
Neida & John Berube, Karleen Golias, Lynn Gamblin Hester Bell, Virginia Jordan
Sandra Hammerling, Laura Bryson
Judith Cobbett, Dean Tucker
Connie Berry, Laura McMurray, Larry Law
Ellen Schulz, Beth Mlcak, Garrison Fuller
W.L. Pate, Gayle Pugh, Frank Messina Jada Kelley,Toye Babb
Richard & Delanea Tallent, Taylor Brown Dot Way, Leigh Kimball
Gary Hidalgo, Paula Pratt, Cindy Bloodsworth,
Leslie Dean and Judge Lupe Flores
Carley Colton, Felecia Colton, Mike Colton, Angela Danforth, Marc McDonald
lacie grant
36 June 2013 | theVIPmag.com
7/28/2019 June VIP
37/52
Gulf Coast Gala
Nigel Tranter, Melissa and Eric Miller Marc and Christy DeRouen
Amy and Albert Faggard Mike and Marian Ruiz
Megan Ult in,Volne Pinder and Kristen Daul James and Jeree Powell
Rick and Galetta Tompkins, Carol Womack, Darlene and Terry Jackson
Leslie Little and Matt Teller Walter Breaux and Pam Trosclair
rensheppard
theVIPmag.com | June 2013
Call Us Today
(409)755-3099
Creating Dreams
Building
Futures
www.GrantzHomes.com
7/28/2019 June VIP
38/52
hill country
great dates in texas hill country
SanAntonioSummerArt& Jazz FestivalMay 31-June 2The San Antonio Summer Art& Jazz Festival, also known asSAS FEST (San Antonio SummerFestival) and JAZZ FEST S. A.(Jazz Festival of San Antonio) isa free 3-day event and features17 great jazz concerts, an Artsand Crafts Fair and deliciousTexas cuisine. www.sanantoniosummerartjazzfestival.com/
Wine Road 290Vino El PastorJune15
All ten wineries along Hwy290 will be pairing a tastingcompanion with their port orsignicant other wine. No ticketto buy. Most wineries have atasting fee that they normallycharge; there is no additionalcharge for the event. Justdrive to each of the wineries.Each of the top hill countryrestaurants will prepare adish and serve to you with awine from the winery. You cantaste other ne wines from thewinery during your visit.
TexasHill CountryWine & Brew FestJuly6Featuring tastings from Texaswineries and breweries. Enjoylive music with Bonnie Bishopfrom Nashville, Johnny Cooperand others. Spend the daysampling delicious food. 11a.m. to 7 p.m. in Kerrville. www.wineandbrewfest.com
Austin Bat FestAugust 24
Enjoy live music, arts andcrafts, food, bat watching,and much more at this annualevent held on the Ann RichardsCongress Ave. Bridge. Youll see1.5 million Mexican free-tailedbats emerging from under thebridge at dusk, 2 stages withlive music, more than 75 arts& crafts vendors, deliciousfood and drinks and childrensactivities. 4 p.m. to Midnight.
38 June 2013 | theVIPmag.com
7/28/2019 June VIP
39/52
text by Jane McBride
Texas is indeed, a whole nuther
state and nowhere is that
exemplied more than in
Austin. There are so many
things we love about Austin,
from the stately, beloved capitol building to
the University of Texas campus (Hook em
Horns!) to Barton Springs, the drag and on
to Sixth Street.
Which brings us to music.
The Austin music scene can be vibrant
and robust, elegant and sophisticated. It also
can be rowdy and alcohol-infused, soul-
lifting and sweat-soaked. Its symphonies
and jazz, blues and country, punk and funk,
rock and retro.
It is, indeed, the Live Music Capital,
though true believers must be prepared to
defend that title from challengers.
To understand the current Austin Music
Scene of Sixth Street and South by South-
west, you need to revisit the Austin of
the 1970s, which, for my generation, was
Nirvana. Nashville was stubbornly stuck on
formulaic country and western. California
was pursuing its own music revolution, led
by Gram Parsons, Emmylou Harris, Jackson
Browne, The Eagles, War, Santana and Port
Arthurs own Janis Joplin.
Austin had its own laid-back but kick-
ass scene of musicians determined to break
away from what was expected and just do
their own thing. It had Willis Alan Ramsey,
THE TRUE LIVE MUSIC CAPITAL?
a u s t i n
hill country
>>
theVIPmag.com | June 2013
7/28/2019 June VIP
40/52
B.W. Stevenson, Steve Fromholz ,Rusty Wier, Ray Wylie Hubbard,Doug Sahm and Michael Murphey.Willie Nelson was there, too,having moved to Austin when hisNashville house burned aboutthe same time he became burnedout on Nashville. He hung outwith Kris Kristoerson and LeonRussell, and it was, well, cosmic.
It was known as progressivecountry, but Michael Murpheysalbum, Cosmic Cowboy Souve-nir, captured the movement:
Lone Star sippin and skinnydippin and steel guitars and stars,are just as good as Hollywood andthem bullshit disco bars
Its no coincidence that AustinCity Limits broadcast for the rsttime in 1975. It would go on tobecome the longest running musictelevision program ever.
Ever.Now, Austin is home to Sixth
Street bars, dives and clubs. Ithosts South by Southwest eachyear, which calls itself a music,lm, and interactive conference.Oh, the possibilities: punks andposeurs, geeks and nerds, the hipand hedonistic and scattered
throughout those for whom mu-sic is as necessary to life as breath.
Narrowing it down is prettynear impossible, but here is ourlist of the best places to capturethe Austin music experience.
Youll notice Bass Hall and theFrank Erwin Center arent onthe list. They are a given forconcerts, symphonies and danceperformances, nationally-knownmusicians and non-music events.
We kept our list (mostly) to clubbars, dance halls and venueswhere live music lovers can catcthe Austin vibe, recognizableby its slogan, Keep AustinWeird. VIP
40 June 2013 | theVIPmag.com
2290 10 South at Washington Blvd. (409) 842-0886
Sun - Thur Fri - Sat 11-11
Everyboyi
smboyat
Floyd!
CRAWFISH ARE BACK!Happy Hour Specials
Monday-Friday 4 PM-7 PM
7/28/2019 June VIP
41/52
Cedar StreetCourtyard208 West 4th St.
(512) 495-9669
www.cedarstreetaustin.com
The fact that 70s and 80s cov-
er bands get the most frequent
booking should clue you in to
the vibe here. The Courtyard has
a reputation as a pick-up bar
for folks with fond memories of
those decades. Known for a
well-stocked bar and live music
seven nights a week.
Cactus Caf2247 Guadalupe
(512) 475-6515
Think intimate and acoustic.
Because its on the UT campus,
parking can be hell. But you can
walk to another historical venue,
Hole in the Wall a small dive
that Austinites still hold close to
their hearts. Most shows start
at 8 p.m. leaving time for late
night visits elsewhere.
ContinentalClub1315 S. Congress Ave.
(512) 441-0202
www.continentalclub.com
Layers of sweat and soul
which you can actually smell in this former supper club.
But its one of the few places
with shows that start before
10, giving you plenty of time to
visit Austins food trailers before
settling in. Listen to swing,
rockabilly, country, and retro
roots music and discover local
talent on the way up.
Emos2015 E. Riverside Dr.
For tickets call Front Gate
tickets (888) 512-7469
Emosaustin.com
Recently sold to C3 Presents
the booking agent/productio
company behind Austin City
Limits Festival and Lollapalothey book acts for Stubbs B
Emos and La Zona Rosa. Lo
of alternative music (from in
rock to punk and metal). Has
outdoor stage, smaller indoo
stage and outdoor beer gard
Loud, rowdy and not so upsc
it lacks appeal. You can hea
some great touring bands he
Antones213 W. 5th St.
(512) 320-8424
www.antones.net
History seeps from the walls ofthis Austin institution, founded
by Clifford Antone and the rst
club to open on Sixth Street
(now on 5th). If you pick the
right night, you can hear great
music. Like many Austin institu-
tions, it is overcrowded and can
be grungy. But youre here for
the music, right?
Broken Spoke3201 S. Lamar Blvd
(512) 442-6189www.brokenspokeaustintx.com
This is a true Texas dance hall
it was voted Best Honky-Tonk
in Texas by Texas Highways
magazine and Best Country
Dance hall in Nation by Enter-
tainment magazine. It always
has been and still remains
cool.
StubbsBar-B-Q801 Red River St.
(512) 480-8341
www.stubbsaustin.com
Eat some great food before
catching everything from
big name acts (exceedingly
crowded) to local up-and-
comers (more breathing room);
predominantly indie and
alternative rock. This sweet
little amphitheater is pleasur-
able in the spring and fall.
Prepare to sweat in the summer.
Outdoor stage is standing only.
Especially crowded for SundayGospel brunch.
ElephantRoom315 Congress Ave.
(512) 473.2279
www.elephantroom.com
A groovy basement jazz bar that
offers live music seven days a
week. Has a well-stocked bar
and lots of beer choices, offer-
ing good drinks appreciated by
a mostly-adult crowd.
The SaxonPub1320 S Lamar Blvd.
(512) 448-2552
www.thesaxonpub.com
The Saxon opened in 1990
an intimate setting. Kris Kris
ferson is reported to have sa
was like playing in his own l
room. Pick a night with a sin
songwriter and fully enjoy th
music. Folks will actually shu
up and listen, which is unlike
many places in Austin.
La Zona Rosa612 W. 4th St.
For tickets call Front Gatetickets (888) 512-7469
www.facebook.com/lazonarosa
Like other Austin music venues,
its crowded and noisy. Be
prepared to stand. Provides
some truly eclectic choices,
from Latin, World Music, blues
and jazz to rock & singer/song-
writers.
AUSTINS TOP LIVE MUSIC VENUES
theVIPmag.com | June 2013
7/28/2019 June VIP
42/52
Paeso
delRio
text by Jane McBride
Its easy to understand why The Alamo and the Paeso delRio (Walk of the River) share the honor of being the No. 1tourist attractions in Texas. While the state has no short-age of vacation destinations, the most venerated histori-cal site in the state and the most brilliantly-conceivedand maintained riverside commercial development arelocated within blocks of each other in a wildly romanticcity steeped in history and oering rich cultural, culinary
and architectural diversity. More than 28 million people travel toexperience San Antonio each year.
The River Walk, a public park open 365 days a year, oers
s a n a n t o n i o
hill country
42 June 2013 | theVIPmag.com
7/28/2019 June VIP
43/52
approximately three miles of restaurants,
bars, shops, hotels, museums and art cen-ters all curving under picturesque stonebridges and walkways one story beneath a
5-mile section of downtown San Antonio.Sidewalks line both sides of the river, put-ting tourists in the heart of the action.
Walking along the river is a sensoryexperience. This is a densely-populatedstretch, with hotels, restaurants and shops
standing shoulder-to-shoulder. The vividreection of colorful umbrellas that shadeguests at river-side establishments shimmer
along the river as music oats from restau-rants and bars.
Overheard conversations here are mostlyin Spanish and English, but tourists fromacross the world oer their own languages
and dialects. Its an odd mix of vibrancy andcalm, a shared gift the river oers.
One absolute must: you cant visit the
River Walk without taking one of the scenicboat cruises that give you a great view anddetailed history of the area. Check with
Rio San Antonio Cruises for tickets: www.riosanantonio.com or (210) 244-5700.
Because the River Walk is on every travel
writers must-see list, merchants cater totourists, but frequently manage to keepsome of the authenticity that makes the city
so intriguing. Those who want to experiencethe rst-rate hotels and restaurants willnd plenty on our list to satisfy that need.
Travelers who have an extended stay in thecity or return faithfully for more visits
can enjoy nding hidden gems that thelocals frequent.
Our off-the-beaten path
Housed in one of the citys old mercantile
exchange buildings is Schilos Deli at 424
E. Commerce, just outside the River Walk.This long-standing Germany eatery (openedin 1917) isnt fancy or expensive; locals love
coming here for good food, but perhaps thetop draw is homemade root beer. Seriouslygood.
Jerrys Hot Dogs, one block o the RiverWalk at 149 E. Commerce, is cherishedby locals for the Chicago-style dogs made
with Vienna Beef on a poppy seed bun. Theowner makes every hot dog by hand. Seri-ously dedicated ex-Chicagoan.
In a city bloated with Tex-Mex res-taurants, La Gloria (100 E. Grayson) has
traditional Mexican food. You wont get thetypical enchilada platter here. Its ceviche,tacos with corn not our tortillas and
food served in molcajetes. They also serveaquas frescas, oering dierent avors eachday. Seriously fresh.
For drinks, be sure to try the Fruit Cupat Soho Martini Bar (214 W. Crockett). Therefreshing libation is reminiscent of the fruit
cups sold by street vendors and taco standsin Mexico. At Zinc Bistro and Bar (207North Presa) youll nd a great sangria lled
with fresh fruit juices.Nearby
LaVillita Historic Arts Village is just afew blocks from the Alamo and the River
Walk. The charming village once was oc-cupied by Spanish soldiers stationed at themission that became the Alamo. Now, its
an art-centric mix of galleries, shops andrestaurants. The village is small enough tomake visiting all the shops and galleries an
easy proposition. Pick up works from bothestablished and emerging artists here. >>
theVIPmag.com | June 2013
7/28/2019 June VIP
44/52
A Pft Day Fdksugtext by jAne mcbriDe
The quaint German-founded town of Fredericksburg
has much to oer as a Texas vacation destination: a
Hill Country location that dates to 1846 with pictur
esque limestone and masonry architecture; more th
350 B&Bs, inns and guesthouses (many located in historic hous
and buildings) and restaurants oering everything from authent
German food to New American cuisine and down-home cooking
focusing on farm to table freshness; quaint Main Street lined wit
block after block of imaginative shops oering chic and eclectic,
rustic and kitschy; art galleries and of course, wineries.
i t i n e r a r y
hill country
Breakfast
Begin with breakfast at the western end of Main Street at Old German Bakeryand Restaurant at 225 W. Main. Find authentic German pancakes and Europeanpastries, or if you prefer, a more robust meal of meat and potatoes. Since youll bedoing a lot of walking, park here and drive back down to a central location nearEast Main.
Favot rvwalk rstauatsYoull never be hungry in San Antonio, with choices from well-appointed bistros like
Budros regional/Southwest fare (the prickly pear martini is a must), the minimalist
dcor and eclectic menu of Citrus and Chef Bruce Audens imaginative New Ameri-
can Cuisine (try the Texas axis venison and grilled quail) at Biga on the Banks.
Favot rvwalk-aa HotlsTo fully experience the River Walk, you can choose one of the many hotels that line
its banks, or opt for nearby choices with their own charms, from the picturesque Ha-
vana Hotel, with its pan-Latin inuence to Emily Morgans stately architecture across
the street from the Alamo. If you enjoy celebrity sightings, we suggest sipping a
cocktail or eating at the above-mentioned Acenar, next door to the swanky Valencia
Hotel, where NBA players stay when in town to play the San Antonio Spurs.
Budros on the River
Walk
420 W Market Street
(210) 224-6500
Biga on the Banks
203 S St. Marys St.
(210) 225-0722
Las Canarias at La
Mansion
112 College St
(210) 518-1000
Ocho Lounge at Hotel
Havana
1015 Navarro St
(210) 222-2008
Citrus
150 E. Houston St.
(210) 227-9700
Il Sogno Osteria
200 E Grayson St
(210) 223-3900
Bella on the River
106 River Walk St
(210) 404-2355
Fig Tree Restaurant
515 Villita St
(210) 224-1976
Acenar
146 E Houston St
(210) 222-2362
Mokara Hotel and Spa
212 W. Crockett
(210) 396-5800
The Westin Riverwalk
420 W. Market
(210) 224-6500
Riverwalk Vista
262 Losoya
(210) 223-3200
Hyatt Regency San
Antonio
123 Losoya
(210) 222-1234
Omni La Mansion del
Rio
112 College
(210) 518-1000
Emily Morgan
705 E. Houston
(210) 225-5100
Hotel Havana
1015 Navarro
(210) 222-2008
Hotel Contessa
306 W. Market
(210) 229-9222
Hotel Valencia
150 E. Houston
(210) 227-9700
For more info: www.visitsanantonio.com and www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com
44 June 2013 | theVIPmag.com
7/28/2019 June VIP
45/52
Dinner
Executive Chef Ross Burtwell makesthe Cabernet Grill (2805 S. Hwy 16) apopular destination for serious food-ies. Located in the Cotton Gin Village
just south of Main Street, the restau-
rant offers seafood, Certied AngusBeef, wild game and ranch fare, alongwith a selection of 75 Texas wines. Trythe bison Enchiladas.
Late Night
Fredericksburg isnt known as alate-night party town (we thinkthats part of its charm) but severalestablishments stay open until late.Choose Lincoln Street Wine and
Cigar Bar (111 S. Lincoln) to sipa nightcap or go boot scootin atCrossroads Saloon and Steak-house (306. W.Main).
Evening
Time for a relaxing visit to the OfcersClub at the Airport at the HangarHotel (155 Airport Rd.).Take Hwy 16South (South Adams Street) for 2.3miles and look for theAirport and FairGrounds Sign. The aviation-themed
hotel is built like a WWII hangar andthe club is all about leather chairs,mahogany woodwork, a beautiful bar,grand piano and a memorable experience. Watch planes land, talk to people whoare ying in from across the country, and enjoy great cocktails. Be sure to say Hito bartender Mary. Locals come here on Thursdays Martini Night to enjoy somequiet time before the hectic pace of the weekend.
photography from fredericksburg convention and visitor bur
After lunch, drive downtown to TheHerb Farm (495 Whitney), allowingat least two hours to fully appreciatethe fragrant, relaxing atmosphere.Walk through beautifully landscapedgardens, stopping at the Poets HausGift Shop, where youll nd gardenand gift items redolent of lavender,rosemary, sage and mint. Be sure tocall ahead and book a massage inthe 5,000 square foot Natures Spato work on sore muscles.
Morning
Spend the morning shopping. Pricesrange from moderate to pricey, butbargains certainly can be found. Thequality of the goods usually is excel-lent. Shop owners have an unusuallykeen eye for the beautiful, (trendy totimeless), unique and well-made.For clothing and accessories, try TheSecret Garden at 102 E. Main, Root at306 E. Main, Haberdashery at 203 E.Main and the must-visit Hill CountryOuttters at 115 E. Main, where youllnd the kind of clothing and footwearthat denes the Texas Hill Country.For antiques and home dcor, look toCarol Hicks Bolton Antiquities (301 S.Lincoln), a 14,000 square feet, beau-tifully modern space lled with pared-down industrial nds, as well as moretraditional pieces.To feed the need forart, visit Insight Gallery (214 W. Main),
a ne-art gallery showcasing paintersand sculptors working in landscape,still life, wildlife and Western Art, aswell as gurative and impressionistworks. Also check out FredericksburgGood Art Company Gallery (218 W.Main) featuring regional, national, andinternational artists who work in avariety of mediums, including pottery.
Lunch
For lunch, take a short drive to ThePink Pig (6266 US 290) and enjoythe inventive cuisine of Owner andExecutive Chef Rebecca Rather, aformer Beaumonter. Rebecca earnedher reputation as pastry chef for TonyVallone in Houston. She co-ownedand ran the Rather Sweet Bakery inFredericksburg before opening thePink Pig last November. Rebeccaoffers farm-to-fork fare, artisanal
provisions and from-scratch bakedgoods in an historic log cabin in themiddle of the wine country. We lovethe fried beet salad, stuffed mac ncheese chile rellenos and incredibletuxedo cake. Her cookbooks, includingThe Pastry Queen, and PastryQueen Christmas, are a must forwell-stocked cookbook collectors.
Afternoon
Head to the wine trail. Its impossible to hit all in one trip, or even a weekend, sowe suggest two favorites, close together just southeast of town off 290. Start atTorre Di Pietra, with plenty of space to sit and sip on the piazza and patios andlisten to live music on Saturdays. Then, on to Becker Vineyards, with its wonderfultasting room, lavender gardens and excellent gift shop. Tastings at both wineriesare $10 for six wines.
VIP
theVIPmag.com | June 2013
7/28/2019 June VIP
46/52
f a s h i o n
hill country
T
he scenery of the Texas Hill Country
sets the tone for easy-going elegance.
Rened beauty is expressed through
functional pieces in rich, breezy
fabrics that are perfect for strolling the
Riverwalk or unwinding with a glassof wine while admiring the sunset. Never overdone,
always appropriate, the fashion in the Hill Country is
effortless and timeless.
From Purse Strings, Beaumont: Patterned maxi dress,Johnny Was, $378; Green scarf, $42; Tooled leatherhandbag, Leaders in Leather, $204; Glass beaded tas-sel necklace, Love Heals, $268; Twilight turquoise clawearrings, Love Heals, $98; Turquoise and leather cuff,$67 each; Beaded wrap bracelet, Chan Luu, $283;Beaded stretch bracelets, set of 3, Chan Luu, $98
photography
by
rensheppard
stylingb
y
gracemathis&larenahead
46 June 2013 | theVIPmag.com
7/28/2019 June VIP
47/52
h o t s p o t s
hill country
Must-See Spots
Off the Beaten Path
The NationalMuseum of thePacic War
340 E. Main St., Freder-icksburg
Fleet Admiral ChesterW. Nimitz grew up in
Fredericksburg. Themuseum is a huge indoorexhibit space that displays
Allied and Japaneseaircraft, tanks, guns andother large artifacts of thePacic War campaigns.
Garrison BrothersDistillery
1827 Hye-Albert Rd, Hye
Tour the ranch and distill-ery where brothers Danand Charlie GarrisonsTexas Straight BourbonWhiskey is distilled, sold
and celebrated, includinghour-long Sit and Sipguided tours of the ranchand distillery.
Texas Hill CountryWine Trail
More than 30 unique and
beautiful wineries are
scattered throughout the
Hill Country. Each winery
offers a tasting room
where you can sample thewines for which Texas is
becoming famous. Check
out www.texaswinetrail.
com for locations and
event schedules.
Luckenbach
Just 13 miles away fromFredericksburg is a tinyhamlet with a saloonand general store madefamous by folkloristHondo Crouch, Jerry JeffWalkers album VivaTerlingua, Willie and Way-
lons Luckenbach Texas(Back to the Basics ofLove) and a slow-pacedappreciation of pickersand grinners.
Natural BridgeCaverns
26495 Natural BridgeCaverns Rd, San Antonio
Guides will take you onan incredible journeyunderground at the largest
known cavern in Texas,which has a half-mileof paved undergroundtrails. View awe-inspiringrock formations that areconstantly changing andgrowing.
Enchanted Rock
16710 Ranch Rd 965,
Fredericksburg
The iconic pink granite
rock formation that
rises 450 feet is perfect
for hiking, rock climb-
ing, primitive camping,
birdwatching, enjoying the500 species of plants and
appreciating the amazing
view.
TripAdvisor.com Recommends
Restaurants
Franklin Barbeque, Austin
Colonial Room Restaurant, San Antonio
Cal-Bobs Smoke Shack, Kerrville
Hotels
Mokara Hotel and Spa, San Antonio
Travaasa Austin, Austin
Barons Creekside, Fredericksburg
theVIPmag.com | June 2013
7770 Gladys, Beaumont 409-860-3133
Integrity from the Ground Up
AndersonCustomHomeBuilder.com
DETAILS
WEUSEADVANCED BUILDINGSCIENCE
TOCONSTRUCT COMFORTABLE,
HEALTHY,AND ENERGYEFFICIENT
HOMESTHATWILLREQUIRE LESS
MAINTENANCEANDOPERATING
COSTS DOWNTHE ROAD.
DISTINCTION
YOURHOME ISAN IMPORTANT
INVESTMENT FORYOUR FAMILY.YOU
DESERVETHE BEST. OUR PROVEN
EXPERIENCE,OUR EXCEPTIONAL
HONESTYANDOURDEMONSTRATED
COMMITMENTTOOURCLIENTS,CRAFTSMAN,AND SUPPLIERS SETSUS
APART FROMOTHER BUILDERS.
DESIGN
WEDESIGN SPACESTAILOREDTO
OURCUSTOMERS.WECREATE IDEAL
ENVIRONMENTS FOR HUSBANDS,
WIVES, CHILDREN,AND GUESTS.
INTHESE HAVENS,ARCHITECTURE
AND INTERIORARE NEVER PURELY
AESTHETIC, BUTALWAYSHAVEA
FUNCTIONAL ROLE,HELPINGTO
MAKE LIFE MORE ENJOYABLE FORTHE
PEOPLEWHO LIVETHERE.
7/28/2019 June VIP
48/52
c a l e n d a r
vip magazine
SETxMid-SummerClassicWakeboardingTournamentJune 8
An established grassrootswakeboarding event, the Mid-Summer Classic focuses on fun andpushes for progress among localand regional riders. The tournamentstarts at 8 a.m. and ends when itends. SETX Wakeboarding Lake,
off Interstate 10 between Vidor andBeaumont. (409) 781-4786.
Lotus Garden andBambooFestivalJune 1-2
Come experience the beauty ofthe Buu Mon Temple water liliesand wide variety of bamboo. Fourgardens surrounding the templeand are home to over 30 varieties
of lotuses and 20 varieties of hardyand tropical water lilies, as wellas, over 30 varieties of bamboo.Some of the bamboo is able toreach heights of up to 80 feet. Inaddition to the lotus, water lilies,and bamboo, the gardens includea large variety of tropical fruittrees and various plants. The eventincludes a celebration of Buddhasbirthday, arts and craft vendors,food and tea ceremonies. 9:30a.m. to 5 p.m. June 1; 9 a.m. to 4p.m. June 2, Buu Mon BuddhistTemple, Port Arthur. (409) 982-9319 or (409) 673-6625.
great dates in june
TheAddams FamilyJune 19-20
The weird and wonderful family
comes to devilishly delightful lifein this magnicently macabre newmusical comedy. 7:30 p.m., LutcherTheater for the Performing Arts,Orange. Tickets $40-$65. (409)886-5535 or www.lutcher.org.
Event SubmissionsDo you have an event you would like to promote? Do it with VIP for FREE! Please send us detailsdates, times, location, contact phone, web address
and a brief descriptionto [email protected]. Information should arrive at least 60 days in advance of the event.
June 1
Babe Zaharias Golf Tournament
Dinner and AuctionTournament, 8 a.m., dinner and
auction, 6:30 p.m., Brentwood
Country Club, Beaumont. Ticket
$50. (409) 833-4514. (409) 833-
4514.
Southeast Texas Motorcop Rode
Ford Park, Beaumont.
setxpolicerodeo.com or (409) 98
7271.
Spindletop Spin Bike Ride
Registration 6 a.m., Crockett Str
Entertainment District, Beaumo
Routes include 16, 27, 53 and 100
mile rides. (409) 839-2332.
Praise Him Festival
11 a.m.-5 p.m., Whites Park,
Anahuac. (409) 527.2949 or
The Lady With all the Answers
A play about newspaper column
Ann Landers, 6:30 p.m., the
Womans Club, Beaumont. Ticke
$65, includes a four course dinne
and show. Reservations: (409)
543-4915 or email ramonarealize
yahoo.com.
June 3
Lunch at the Lake
11 a.m.-2 p.m., the Event Centre,
Beaumont. Bring a lunch or buy
from one of the mobile food vend
on site. Every Monday. (409) 838
3435.
TimMcGrawJune 20
Dont miss your chance to see coun
music star Tim McGraw, the winne
3 Grammy Awards, 14 ACM Award
and 11 CMA Awards. McGraw has s
40 million albums world-wide, wit
debuting at #1 on the Billboard albu
charts. Brantley Gilbert and Love
and Theft are also on the bill, 7 p.mFord Pavilion, Beaumont. Tickets $
$42.75 and $67.75 at the Ford Park
Oce and all Ticketmaster outlets
48 June 2013 | theVIPmag.com
7/28/2019 June VIP
49/52
ACROSS
1 Sir Paul McCartneys ex, ____ Mills
5 Legendary guitarist, ___ Satriani
7 Lennons Yoko
9 Southern California Teen TV show (2
words)11 The hen laid __ egg
12 Controversial host with his own
show, Jerry
15 __ Bice, Idol runner-up
16 Shaft musician, ____ Hayes
18 Ghost star, ___ Moore
20 Colorful pond sh
22 Oktoberfest drink
24 Shakespeares rst name
26 Fox News host, Bill O____
28 Hamburgs river
30 Providence state
31 Frank Sinatras daughter
32 Mary ___ Eddy, founder of theChristian Science Church
DOWN
1 The ____ : teenage reality sh
featuring Justin, Audrina, Heidi,
Kristin and Spencer
2 ___ Management starring Ja
Nicholson3 Sweetie pie, for short
4 Actor, ___ Lowe
5 60s protest singer, ___ Baez
6 Toyota vehicle
8 Close
10 Summer month, for short
13 Character in Guitar Hero World T
14 Delirious comedian, ____ Mu
15 Patriots coach, rst name
16 The Crocodile Hunter, Steve _
17 Over the Rainbow composer,
Harold ___
19 Major character in Slumdog
Millionaire21 Mine nd
23 Watcher
25 Corporation abbreviation
27 Gladiator star middle name
29 Indicates the manufacturer
Find answers on page 4
c r o s s w o r d
vip magazineJune 6
First Thursdays on Calder Avenue
5-9 p.m., starting at the Mildred
Building, Beaumont. The monthly
event features food, live music and
sidewalk vendors oering clothing,
jewelry, art, photography, recycled
and handmade items and more.
(409) 8 33-9919.
Book and Movie Night
Ragtime, 6:30-9:30 p.m.,McFaddin-Ward House lecture hall,
Beaumont. A discussion of the E.L.
Doctorow book and a screening of
the 1981 movie. Complimentary
popcorn and refreshments will be
served. Free. (409) 832-1906.
June 7
Southeast Texas Press Club Awards
6:30-9 p.m., University Reception
Center, Mary and John Gray Library,
Lamar University. Tickets are $35.
(409) 201-9934
June 7-9
Larrys Old Time Trade Days
8 a.m.-5 p.m., Winnie. Antiques,
collectibles, arts and crafts, home
decor items, plants, clothing,
jewelry, purses and more. (409) 296-
3300 or larrysoldtimetradedays.com.
June 8
Bringing Back Memories Car Show
8 a.m.-3 p.m., Beaumont Civic
Center, Beaumont. Car registration
8-11 a.m., entry fee $25. Proceeds
benet the Humane Society ofSoutheast Texas. (409) 838-3435.
Gun and Knife Show
9 a.m.-5 p.m. June 8; 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
June 9, Robert A. Bob Bowers
Civic Center, Port Arthur. Adults $7,
children younger than 12 free. (713)
724-8881 or www.realgunshow.com
Texas Country Music Show
7:30 p.m., Palace Theater, Kirbyville.
Adults $7, children 7-12 $3, free
for children younger than 6. (409)
423-3319.
Spindletop Roller Girls Roller Derby7 p.m., Ford Exhibit Hall,
Beaumont. Advance tickets $15
and $10, children 2-12 $10 and
$5 at Ticketmaster outlets. www.
spindletoprollregirls.com
June 14-16
Orange Trade Days
9 a.m.-5 p.m., Orange Trade Days
grounds, Orange. Flea market,
farmers market, food and music.
Free. (409) 883-4344.
PALT-a-Palooza
Port Arthur Little Theatre presents
a variety show featuring hits from
musicals of the past, Port Arthur
Little Theatre Playhouse, Port
Arthur. Reservations: (409) 727-7258
or www.palt.org.
June 15
Cajun Celebration
10 a.m.-5:30 p.m., music, food and
more, Jeerson County Singles Club,Nederland. (409) 626-1766.
June 17
BPSF (Beaumont Public School
Foundation) Golf Tournament
Brentwood Country Club, Beaumont.
Tee times: 7:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Individual players $185. Sponsorship
levels available. To register, call
(409) 617-5134, emailbpsf93@gmail.
com or go to www.beaumont.k12.
tx.us/golf.
June 18
Movies in the Park
The Odd Life of Timothy Green,
8:15 p.m., Central Park, Beaumont.
Bring lawn chairs. Free. (409) 838-
3613.
June 20
Adam Hood and Jason Eady
7 p.m., Courvilles, Beaumont.
Tickets $30, includes dinner.
Reservations: (409) 860-9811 or
email jes [email protected].
June 22Brett Michaels
Podunk also on the bill, Nutty
Jerrys, Winnie. Doors open at 7 p.m.
Tickets $45, $65, $75. (877) 643-
7508 or www.nuttyjerrys.com.
June 23
Annual Box Fan Bash
Event features local bands, a silent
auction and raes throughout
the evening, 5-10 p.m., Madisons,
Beaumont. Proceeds benet the
Salvation Armys Beat the Heat
program, which provides box fans
to the elderly every summer. (409)
338-3106.
Hebert High School Alumni
Association Hall of Fame Induction
Ceremony
6 p.m. Holiday Inn Hotel and
Suites, Beaumont. Reception 6
p.m., ceremony and dinner, 7 p.m.
For tickets, call (409) 351-4361 or
heberthighalumni.org.
theVIPmag.com | June 2013
7/28/2019 June VIP
50/52
VIP
g u e s t c o l u m n
vip voices
text by HOLLI PETERSEN
Fashion is a ckle
beast and one
with whom I
have little pa-
tience. Keeping
up with the latest
trends was never
my forte and my
brain tends to
reference style as
the way words marry in a sentence, rather
than how to harmoniously join color and
texture in an outt.
Yet, despite my fondness for gauchos (Iswear, theyre going to make a comeback!),I do have a chic fashion mentor that I striveto emulate.
It just so happens that shes 73.Her name is Dutsie Mrs. Dutsie Sin-
clair, to be exact an exceptional name foran exceptional lady.
Dutsie and her husband, Mike, wereon the short list of family I was to meetbefore my husband, Kyle, and I got tooserious. He considers them his adoptedgrandparents kind souls who attended allthe grandparent days and scouting court ofhonors, while his biological grandparentswere separated by miles and state lines.The Sinclairs were always just a few housesdown the street and kept their doors openfor impromptu visits or the doling out ofsweet treats.
Before she even opened the door, I envi-sioned what Dutsie would look like. Wire-rimmed glasses. Floral nightgown. Grayhair. But, what I discovered was something
else entirely.She was fabulous stunning, really.Short, expertly-styled black hair. Impec-cable makeup. And, with an ensemble thatwas clearly planned in advance, down toher red, manicured nails and her shocking
stiletto heels.The only thing louder than her appear-
ance was her personality. She welcomedyou into her beautiful home with warmhugs, a thick New Orleans accent and aready, raucous laughter.
She was not some clich grandma. Thiswas Mrs. Dutsie Sinclair. Larger than life.
Over the years, Ive come to expectnothing less from the woman that is nowmy own adopted grandma.
She still answers her door, looking likea seasoned diva just stepping o the stage.
There are no slouchy clothes in hercloset. There are no house shoes. There areno gray hairs. She is forever awless andput together.
Beauty is an art to Dutsie and feminin-ity is a prize to be treasured. She discussesher shoes and handbags with fondness.Shopping is a sport that she gold-medalsin. Makeup is just another tool in her ex-pansive arsenal. And, she can take one lookat a person and declare their season andwhat colors would complement their eyes
and skin tone. (Turns out, Im a winter.)Dutsie was thrilled when we announcedto her that our rst child would be a girl.And, it wasnt long before she beganshowering our still in-utero daughter withthe most extravagant of baby clothes allanimal print and sequins and glitz.
The showering never stopped. For everybirthday or holiday, we can expect morepizazz to sparkle our daughter, Gabriellas,closet. Gabi loves nothing more than aday of shopping with her Grandma DivaDutsie.
Good luck keeping up with her, though.Though Cogan Syndrome and vertigomake her a little wobbly, Dutsie still dons amean pair of suede high-heeled boots (with
matching cane) and breezes through storeafter store.Nothing slows her down. Not even
cancer.We got the news last Christmas, when
a case of pneumonia revealed a much more
sinister something lurking in her lungs acruel fate for anyone, much less a non-smoker.
It was a devastating shock to us all. Wewaited to tell Gabi waited to nd theright reassuring words. Yet, she still laidher head against the cold car window andwept with deep, heartbroken shudders.
However, Ive never seen Dutsie cryabout it. Shes been too concerned withhow to continue doing what she lovesand, naturally, theres her appearance toconsider.
Ironic that the medicine that will extendyour life can ravage every trait that makesyou feel like a woman. It takes real eort tolook in the mirror and see yourself, not thecancer. It takes courage to face the worldand say my hair is gone, but my soul is stillsmiling. Yet, Dutsie does it every day.
Nothing could teach me more aboutstyle than watching Dutsie battle cancer wearing silk pajamas, propped up in abed engulfed with the sentimental cardsthat arrive in droves. She is still witty, still
sharp, still a force to be reckoned with.Dutsie has taught me that style isnt just
about keeping up with the latest trends orwearing the most fashionable clothing.
Style is the way you meet each day withzest. Style is the way you wipe away yourtears and put your mascara on anyways.Style is laughing when it hurts, smilingthrough the sorrow.
Its funny how life can oer you sadnessand joy with the same hand. Around thetime we learned the unhappy news aboutDutsie, we received a blessed surpriseabout our own little family.
It seems there will be an unforeseenexpansion.
A little girl.Another diva-in-training to share in allthe stored away animal prints and sequins.
Well call her Annelise Sinclair afamily name and a reminder to always befabulous, always be fearless.
Style from within
50 June 2013 | theVIPmag.com
7/28/2019 June VIP
51/52
7/28/2019 June VIP
52/52