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Launch Party Vol. 2

Last week, we launched the second volume of The Scout Guide Edmond. To celebrate the guide’s debut, Editor/Owner Ashley Nettleton held a party for members and friends at The Manor at Coffee Creek, where guest enjoyed drinks and light bites while perusing the new publication.

The details:

Venue: The Manor at Coffee Creek

Catering: Savor: Meals to Go

Beverages: The Tipsy Caravan

Florals: Southern Charm Florals

Custom Cookies: Cookies by Sydnie

Balloons: Opulent Couture Balloons

Event Planner: Amy Ray Events

Event Photography: Ashley Sunderland Photography

Scout Guide Edmond Member Photos

Oklahoma Chiropractic Group

LIV Medical Spa

L. Myles Smith & Co and LMS Technology

Bentley Travel Design

The Scout Guide Edmond also made a donation presentation that night to the OK Autism Center Foundation. 

We want to say a huge thank you to everyone who came to the party to celebrate with us! We love when local businesses can be together, and you showed up in a big way!

To download your photos from the Launch Party, click HERE. Download Pin is 8526.

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Top 4 Fall Fashion Trends

If you’re in Oklahoma, Fall as arrived and for that we are grateful! Who doesn’t love the cooler weather, cozy sweaters and never feeling guilty about wearing leggings 10 days in a row?

We got to meet up with our local fashion expert, Mainstream Boutique owner, Amber Goodall to get the scoop on what the TOP 4 Fall fashion trends are going to look like.

📸: @shantays 

1. Pleather : Instead of being limited to outerwear, you can find pantsuits, midi pencil skirts or shirts all in pleather this season. Whether it’s a night out with friends or a statement piece to wear to church, Pleather is always a great way to dress up a jeans/t-shirt type of outfit!

📸: @shantays

2. Animal Spots: The animal print is still a go and roaring loud as ever! Want to feel comfortable but still look cute? These t-shirt-like tops are great for a comfy but cute outfit.

3. Color Blocking: Have you gotten into color blocking yet? It’s thought of as the exploration of taking colors that are opposites on the color wheel and pairing them together to make interesting and complementary color combinations. We love the subtle way this sweater shows it off and these boots are UH-MAZING.

📸: @shantays

4. Victorian Sleeves: The elegance of the 19th century has inspired fashion over the years and a variety of the puffed sleeve has never really left trend cycles. What is it about flowy sleeves that make us feel like the holiday season is right around the corner?! They are such a subtle accent to any top!

For more inspiring outfits for all of your Fall needs, head to @mainstreamboutiqueedmond or stop by their store in Downtown Edmond!

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Member Spotlight - Life Squire

Welcome to our regular feature where we introduce you to the local people who bring such creativity, vision and heart to our community.

We asked Valerie Riley, Owner of Life Squire to tell us about her company, how she got started and what services they offer. We are so excited to share this special Scouted Spotlight interview with you!

 TSG Edmond: Tell us a little about yourself.

 Valerie: I am a San Francisco native, now in love with Oklahoma as my home! I am an aunt to 2 nephews and a fur mom to 2 dogs & 2 cats. I am the current President of the EO (Entrepreneurs Organization) chapter and enjoy traveling (pre-Covid!), reading and finding joy in the ordinary.

 TSG Edmond: Tell us how Life Squire began? What was the vision behind it?

Valerie: I started the company in 2007, after working as an assistant myself for 8 years. I fell in love with the idea of helping others achieve success and fulfilling the illusion of being able to do it all. I am entrepreneurial by nature (my entire family on my dad’s side were business owners), so when the opportunity arose, I took it. It’s been a long, bumpy road, but I wouldn’t change it for the world.

TSG Edmond: What services do you offer?

 Valerie:      

👉 Virtual Assistant Services

👉 Personal Assistant Services (errand running, household management, etc.)

👉 Job Placement Service (for support roles)

👉 Assistant & Support Staff Training through our LifeSquire Academy

 TSG Edmond: What is one of your employees most memorable experiences helping a client?

 Valerie: We get the gift of adding value to a lot of client’s lives and experiences so choosing one is difficult. However, the most recent that comes to mind is a client has us use part of her hours to help her father who has recently moved to an assisted living facility and is lonely. Our assistant spends time just having coffee with him and listening to his stories and I can’t think of a better way to spend a workday!

 TSG Edmond: Why are you excited to be part of The Scout Guide Edmond

Valerie: We are excited to be a part of a community the celebrates small business owners. We have had several Edmond clients, but are looking forward to connecting with even more in that area!

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Parade of Homes 2020 Features TSG Edmond Members

We are so excited that several of our Edmond Scout Guide members are part of the 2020 Parade of Homes Fall Classic. Matteson Custom Homes, Nicole Rickey Designs and Shane Rickey with Brent Gibson Classic Home Design are some of the main contributors to this gorgeous home found at 524 Oak Summit Rd., Edmond 73025.

The roots of Matteson Custom Homes stretch back to Hurricane Katrina in 2005. The Matteson family lived in south Louisiana at the time and learned about building science during the rebuilding of New Orleans. The destruction gave way to innovation and advancements in building science. They brought some of those advancements back when they returned to Oklahoma a few years later, but more importantly, they brought back the mindset of always keeping an open mind to technology.

When they began the process of interviewing builders to build their own home, they wanted to utilize the latest building science to build a structurally sound and energy-efficient home. Most of these techniques were not common in Oklahoma yet, and builders weren't open to innovation. They ended up purchasing a home that, although was very pretty, did not meet their requirements as it related to air sealing and energy reduction.

With the help of family who had been building commercially for decades, they decided to build their own home, fell in love with the process and never looked back. The quality processes they use like the way they insulate, structurally brace a home, control the humidity, and air seal to name a few, are very different than what most builders use. They utilize pressure tests, infrared camera technology, and many other techniques to check for quality throughout the building process. The result is a stronger, cleaner, healthier, and more energy-efficient home. 

Nicole Rickey has been an Interior Designer since 2003 and relaunched her business in 2012. For the past 8 years, she has specialized in detailed custom luxury homes in Edmond with an emphasis on custom cabinetry, luxury lighting, and fine modern furnishings. She also owns a secondary company that focuses on designer lighting fixtures, Luxe Lighting by Nicole Rickey. 

The featured home will have clean lines, an open, modern style, and a very inviting and warm feel. The floating stair treads are a very unique look not seen often in today's construction. The refrigerated wine room will be beautiful with large glass walls that provide elegance to the space. The home overlooks the golf course and the backyard space will be very functional. Beyond the beauty of the home, the functionality includes a variable speed inverter HVAC system, humidifiers, advanced air sealing technology, and of course, a home that exceeds building code for structural integrity. 

The home is styled in a luxury coastal-modern style, with custom designed cabinetry, custom tile work, and designer light fixtures from Nicole’s exclusive lighting brand throughout the home. Walking through you’ll see that every space is unique yet beautifully flows with the overall style of the home and no detail has been overlooked.

The Parade of Homes will be open daily September 19-27 from 1:00-7:00 pm. Parade attendees may find additional information at www.paradeofhomesok.com. 

Attendees will be encouraged to practice the most current recommended and/or locally mandated safety guidelines in place like social distancing, face coverings, and frequent hand washing. Hand sanitizer will be provided throughout the house, and doorknobs, countertops, etc. will be regularly disinfected.  

Congratulations to our Edmond Scout Guide Members who have made this home truly spectacular!

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Experience the Difference in Emergency Care

As the need for medical care continues to increase in our state, we want to highlight the professionalism and expert care of Oklahoma ER and Hospital  We are so proud of what they are doing in our community and have changed the way people view medical care with three principles: real care, real convenience, real capabilities.

In the last 21 months Oklahoma ER & Hospital and their highly acclaimed staff has made a lasting, positive impact on the community, earning the title of “Highest Rated Hospital” in the state.

One of the many Edmond residents who have become a loyal patient of Oklahoma ER & Hospital is Brandon Payne. Payne has experienced “phenomenal care” while visiting the facility on three separate occasions since its opening in 2019. Payne’s initial visit was due to an incident that left his two-year-old daughter with a broken arm.

“Every single interaction with the staff was excellent. The nurses were top notch. They made sure both kids—our youngest was one at the time—had books, snacks, toys, whatever they needed to help distract them, which allowed us to stay calm as well,” said Payne. “I think the entire visit from entering and checking in, to getting x-rays, and getting a cast set, took maybe an hour. I’ve never seen an emergency room function so quickly, with so much professionalism, and kindness. I felt like they had been taking care of our family for years, even though they had never met us before.”

Oklahoma ER & Hospital was founded on the desire to break away from the large-scale hospital system and provide an individualistic approach to emergency care. The highly experienced staff members pride themselves on being compassion-driven medical professionals.

Oklahoma ER & Hospital stays open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year, and no appointment is needed for treatment. For a list of services or more information on the top-rated facility's concierge-level care, visit okerhospital.com.  

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Member Spotlight - Edmond Public Schools Foundation

Welcome to our regular feature where we introduce you to the local people who bring such creativity, vision and heart to our community.

We asked Deanna Boston, Executive Director of the Edmond Public School Foundation to tell us about she does for Edmond Public Schools and how we can be involved. We are so excited to share this special Scouted Spotlight interview with you!

TSG Edmond: Tell us a little about the EPSF and what it’s role is in the community?

Deanna: The Edmond Public Schools Foundation brings the community together with the needs of the Edmond Public Schools.  There are always needs in our public schools, but this year more than ever, the needs are amplified.  Most years, the support the community provides through the EPS Foundation funds a wide variety of needs including: classroom grants, funding for mental health and social emotional curriculum, supporting special needs, funding the arts, awarding scholarships and providing leadership opportunities through its Student Ambassador program.  This year, all of these programs still exist, with additional needs due to the pandemic.

2020 Student Ambassadors

TSG Edmond: How long have you been a part of EPS Foundation and what is your role?  

Deanna: I still consider myself "new" to the EPS Foundation.  I have been here for a little over a year as the Executive Director, but I have worked in the nonprofit profession for 22 years.  Ending up here is full circle for me.  When I was young, I remember playing school in my room and dreaming about being a teacher.  Obviously, I chose a different path when I realized I didn't have the gift that our educators have.   I have so much respect for educators and value education, which is why I feel fortunate to utilize my knowledge in the nonprofit professions to bring the community together to support Edmond Public Schools.   I remain in awe of teachers, just like I did when I was young and playing school in my room. 

TSG Edmond: What can we expect to see this year from the EPSF? 

The school year has just started and we worked this summer to meet the changing needs.  We helped to ensure that students in Edmond Public Schools without internet access would have it for virtual learning.  A survey showed that over 500 students in Edmond did not have internet access.  We partnered with the City of Edmond to provide this for students who meet low-income guidelines.    We are also providing funding for art supplies so the arts program provided by Edmond Fine Arts can reach all elementary schools!  Mental Health and Social Emotional Learning is also a huge part of the EPS curriculum and supported by the EPS Foundation.  There is a Mental Health Fund at the Foundation to help with social emotional learning starting in Pre-K and extending all the way through high school. In addition to our ongoing support of Edmond Public Schools, this year we will work to be flexible to meet the needs of the schools due to the pandemic. Things might look a little different, and we are asking the community to support us where they feel passionate, or with a general donation that can be used where the greatest need is.   

Deanna Boston and Tami Shaw check presentation to EPS for Professional Development to help teachers receive training prior to the school year (included virtual learning training) 

TSG Edmond: Do you have any events coming up?  

Deanna: A big part of bringing the community together includes hosting community events.  October 5th, we have our annual Putt FORE Public Education, followed by our ONE Edmond Community Event in November.  In the spring, your readers can look forward to our Hall of Fame fundraising dinner.  We also host the annual Celebration of Excellence where both the Teacher and Support Staff of the year are revealed and community support allows us to provide both of them, and the finalists, a cash award.  Anyone can register for our community events at www.edmondpsf.org

  Teachers at Central Middle School receiving funds from the EPS Foundation

TSG Edmond: Why are you excited to be part of the Scout Guide this year?  

Deanna: The students in our schools are Edmond's future business owners, builders, artists, social media influencers, entrepreneurs, city leaders and more, all of which are integral parts of the Scout Guide. By supporting our schools, we are supporting local businesses, companies and the future of our city.  Our students are inspiring, just like The Scout Guide!

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Letter from the Editor - Volume 2

Photo: Brett Heidebrecht

The Scout Guide Edmond is a celebration of the people behind some of the most exceptional local businesses in our community. It is my hope that the guide inspires discovery. Whether you’re a visitor, newcomer, or a longtime local, I hope that it helps you to engage with the people in our community on a deeper level and helps you enjoy our community to the fullest.

I’d like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to all the businesses that are in Volume 2. Thank you for being part of a support system, it’s an honor to help tell your stories and I can’t wait to share more about you throughout the year.

HERE ARE SOME TIPS ON HOW TO USE THE GUIDE

VISIT the businesses in person and online. FOLLOW us and these businesses on social media. DISPLAY the guide in your home. SHARE the guide with family, friends, guests and your favorite small business. SIGN UP for our local newsletter.

And don’t forget to tell them SCOUT sent you!

Live. Love. Local.

Ashley Nettleton

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Shine - Member Spotlight

Welcome to our regular feature where we introduce you to the local people who bring such creativity and vision to our community.

We asked Tyler Cox with Shine to tell us about why he started the well known window washing business, Shine. We are so excited to share this special Scouted Spotlight interview with you!

Photo by: Brett Heidebrecht Photography

TSG Edmond: How did you get started in the business? What do you love about what you do?

Tyler: I decided to open Shine because I thoroughly believed in the mission, which is to help create a brighter world. Shine's services include window cleaning, gutter cleaning, pressure washing and holiday lighting.

Previously I owned a company with other business partners, and we sold it in 2017. I didn’t want to dive headfirst into just any new business but was passionate about finding the best fit for me and my soon to be wife. After seeking multiple opportunities, I truly felt as though the Lord was leading us to Shine.  We were very impressed by the Shine Group and other Shine business owners across the country. It truly felt like a family of positive people who loved making a difference in their communities. It was something that we wanted to be a part of.

I love being able to build relationships with our customers and our team members. Since launching Shine, I have met some incredible people and it has been a privilege to serve them. It is my hope that Shine will leave a lasting impact on our community that goes beyond clean windows. 

TSG Edmond: Why were you interested in being part of TSG Edmond?

Tyler: I have a heart for other small businesses and after learning about TSG Edmond, I wanted to be a part of this unique group of business owners that also have a passion for serving others in our own backyard. It is an honor to be able to partner with TSG Edmond. 

TSG Edmond: Tell us a little about your family, what you like to do in your free time.

I feel so blessed to have my wife Emily by my side.  She is a first-grade teacher but she also does a lot to support Shine.  We were married in December 2018 and launched Shine just a few short months later. We have loved getting to start Shine together and build it up, along with our marriage. In my free time, I enjoy playing golf. Emily and I also try to make it to the lake and travel to new places when we can. We also love serving at our church and being involved with our church family. 

TSG Edmond: What are you looking forward to for the remainder of 2020?

Tyler: For the remainder of 2020, I am looking forward to continually growing Shine and building up our team. I am also looking forward to seeing our community rebound from such uncertainty and coming out stronger than ever. Having grown up in Oklahoma, I have seen many difficulties face our state, yet we always make it out with more grace, grit, and determination. I believe this circumstance will be no different and our community will continue to thrive. 

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Rhea Lana’s of Edmond - Member Spotlight

Welcome to our regular feature where we introduce you to the local people who bring such creativity and vision to our community.

We asked Lynzie Brewer with Rhea Lana’s of Edmond to tell us about why she started the popular consignment sale in Edmond, who they serve and why she loves the business. We are so excited to share this special Scouted Spotlight interview with you!

TSG Edmond: Tell us a little history about the Rhea Lana Consignment sale? Who does it serve?

Lynzie: Rhea Lana’s consignment events began over 20 years ago in Conway, Arkansas by a mom (Rhea Lana) who wanted to provide high quality clothing for her children at a fraction of retail price. Below is the link to the entire story of how we began! https://www.rhealana.com/about/about-rhea-lana's-the-company

TSG Edmond: How did you get started? Why do you love it?

Lynzie: I began shopping for my children at Rhea Lana’s when we lived in Arkansas. I was a new mom with 3 small kiddos who never stopped growing! Once I saw how much money I saved on name brand items by shopping at Rhea Lana’s, I was hooked! I began consigning and never looked back! When we began the process of moving to Oklahoma, I looked up online to see where the nearest Rhea Lana’s event was in the OKC area. I was shocked to find that there wasn’t one here. I mentioned this to my husband and my parents, and they all said the same thing: You should start one! So I did!

I love everything about our events. Being able to support local families is what drives me each season. I have built so many relationships with local moms as we’ve bonded over baby gear, toys, and shoes! I love creating an environment of moms helping moms.

TSG Edmond: Tell us about the sale and its connection to serving foster families?

Lynzie: My husband and I fostered and adopted our oldest two children. We have a very big place in our hearts for foster families and supporting them as they serve our community. As a way to give back to these families, we hold a Foster Family Shopping time at the end of each event.

Many of our consignors choose to donate thousands of their unsold items, so we allow local foster families to come shop for free for their foster children. We usually see around 75 families during this shopping time and it is always so encouraging. These families are always so appreciative and blown away by this opportunity. We are so thankful for our generous consignors who make this possible!

TSG Edmond: Why are you excited about being part of The Scout Guide Edmond this year?

Lynzie: I have loved following The Scout Guide on Instagram over the last year. I have learned so much about other local businesses and the way they are serving the community. I have already met several amazing women business owners through being a part of The Scout Guide and I am so thankful for the opportunity to learn from them!

TSG Edmond: Tell us a little about you and your family! What do you like to do in your spare time?

I have been married to my husband, Nathan, for 9 years. We have 5 children: Emilee, (9), Gabe (6), John Braxton (5), Beau (4), and Maggie (1). We love going to Thunder Games, taking walks to our neighborhood park, and trying out local restaurants!

For more information about the Rhea Lana Fall event in Edmond, click here.

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Member Spotlight - Periodontal Center North

Welcome to our regular feature where we introduce you to the local people who bring such creativity and vision to our community.

We asked Blaire Allyn with Periodontal Implant Center North to tell us about how her practice began, the services they offer and why she loves being in Edmond. We are so excited to share this special Scouted Spotlight interview with you!

Photo: Amorabelle Photography

TSG Edmond: Tell us a little about the Periodontal Implant Center North.

Blaire: This business was a dream of mine when I was in residency. I wanted to open a business in Edmond, because I felt that there was a need. There wasn't a practice that provided our specialty in Edmond city limits. The closest was in Northwest Oklahoma City, so I felt like there was really an underserved population that needed access to our services. As I was going through my residency training, my sister decided she wanted to follow the path so we could work together! She finished 3 years after me and we have been practicing together ever since!

We provide complete periodontal therapy including deep cleanings and management of periodontal disease, esthetic gingival surgery like gum grafting of several different types to cover exposed roots, treatment of gummy smiles, dental implants and implant related procedures. 

 TSG Edmond: What is one question you often get from patients?

Blaire:  One question we are often asked is "Could I have prevented this?" The truth is most people coming into our office are terrified about having mouth surgery, and they are wondering if there is something they could have done to prevent their situation. Most periodontal diseases/conditions have at least some under lying predisposing factors. However, patient education is a large factor as well. Good/atraumatic oral hygiene, systemic health, and routine cleanings tailored to patient specific needs can sometimes help overcome genetic predispositions to adverse periodontal conditions. 

  Photo: Amorabelle Photography

TSG Edmond: What has being part of the Scout Guide Edmond meant to you?

Blaire: The Scout guide has connected us with a business community that is interested in serving Edmond residents with the highest level of professional services. We have gotten great referrals for our business, made great friends, and learned so much about how we can continually better our practice to serve the Edmond community. We are forever grateful!

Photo: Amorabelle Photography

TSG Edmond: Do you have any 4th of July traditions?

Blaire: My sister and I both typically go to the lake for the 4th of July! We do a big fish fry with fish caught from the spring and feed the whole lake neighborhood! 

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Red, White & Blue Local Guide

This Fourth of July, we are all looking for a little something to bring extra joy around our homes! And while we all deserve more than a little retail therapy, we’ve Scouted local goodies that will make the 4th even more fun and special!  

As always, shop local and tell them The Scout Guide sent you!

1. Mainstream Edmond Boutique - This adorable top with a pair of white shorts or skinny jeans is the perfect combo for your 4th of July party!

2. Emory Anne Interiors - Spruce up your living room with this beautiful chair. 

3. Knead & Nod - Headed to a party where you should bring a hostess gift? This gift basket is a perfect way to say thank you to your party host! 

4. Classic Tile - Time to revamp your flooring! Classic Tile has the perfect materials for that!

5. Izzy Anne Society - With so many options to choose from, Izzy Anne has the perfect pair of earrings for your favorite holiday!

6. Brad McNeill Art - This gorgeous painting is just one example of the brilliant work that Brad McNeill creates!

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Holloway Restaurant Group - Member Spotlight

Welcome to our regular feature where we introduce you to the local people who bring such creativity and vision to our community.

We asked Alex Holloway with The Holloway Restaurant Group to tell us about how their restaurants began and why they love being in Edmond. We are so excited to share this special Scouted Spotlight interview with you!

TSG Edmond:  How did the The Holloway Group get started?

Alex: HRG started in 1995 by Peter and Sheree Holloway, with the opening of Cafe 501 in Edmond. Sheree attended baking school in France to learn the fine art of Artisan Bread baking which is a core element of the restaurant. Initially opened for breakfast and lunch, it has evolved to lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch. The second location, Cafe 501 Classen Curve, opened in 2010.

 In 1998 the Holloway's opened Boulevard Steakhouse. It was developed in response to the need for a Prime Steakhouse in Oklahoma. BSH was the first restaurant to offer 100% USDA Prime beef to Oklahoma. In 2002 the Martini Lounge was opened as a compliment to the Steakhouse. The Martini Lounge closed in 2019 and HRG opened Sparrow as a modern approach to Italian food. The Holloways started Pepperoni Grill in Oklahoma City and with their experience modernized Italian food in a casual atmosphere.

TSG Edmond: How have you adapted your restaurants during the pandemic?

Alex: By staying true to our core values, taking care of our employees and guests above all. We have implemented masks and deep cleaning but mainly focusing on the health and safety of our employees and guests.

 TSG Edmond: Why did you choose Edmond to open your restaurants in?

Alex: We started as a small family and Edmond allowed us to run our restaurants and grow the family at the same time.

TSG Edmond: What has being part of The Scout Guide Edmond meant to you?

Alex: It has been great to get to know our Edmond community better and learn more about the local businesses we see every day. We love being in Edmond and supporting all the local businesses as well, the Scout Guide does a great job getting us all together as one!

 TSG Edmond: What kind of specials do you have going on for Father’s Day?

Alex: Boulevard will be selling raw steaks for home grilling; Cafe 501 will be offering brunch and a brunch kit for the family! 

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Teacher Appreciation Giveaway!

In partnership with the Oklahoma Chiropractic Group, The Scout Guide Edmond is taking time this week to honor and appreciate local teachers. The work our teacher do in and outside of the classroom each day is incredible and we love being able to give back in this way!

Dr. Joren Whitley with Oklahoma Chiropractic Group in a recent interview when asked why he chose to partner with TSG Edmond on this endeavor said, “Our office wanted to recognize the teachers within our community because of the effort they continue to pour into the next generation.”

There are three different giveaways this week and they include:

1.       Chiropractic Bundle (consultation, exam, 2 sets of x-rays and adjustment)

2.       Acupuncture session

3.       1 hr. Massage Therapy

Dr. Whitley said his favorite teachers growing up were a trio that included his calculus, biology and chemistry teachers. “They were a crazy bunch that constantly pushed us out of our comfort zones. They inspired us to be greater than we were and strive for dreams that were out of this world.”

Teachers have always been the backbone of our world and we so appreciate the dedication they put forth each day. If you know of a teacher that would love to win the chiropractic bundle, nominate them on our social media pages!

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Stella B Home - Member Spotlight

Welcome to our regular feature where we introduce you to the local people who bring such creativity and vision to our community.

We asked Stella B Home Owner, Skye Struckel, to tell us about herself and what makes her business so unique.  We are so excited to share this special Scouted Spotlight interview with you!

Q: Tell us about the history of Stella B Home.

 A: Stella B started as a showroom where designers could bring their clients in to touch and feel an exclusive line of furniture that I designed.  It was by appointment only or I’m able to unlock it remotely so that designers have access to bring their clients in for private showings in a pressure free environment.  I wanted consumers to have a place where they could come and feel comfortable as well as give them a one on one experience.   Now, after almost two years in business, I carry several additional American made lines and have also brought in local artist Sara Kay Michael. Sara is an extremely talented abstract artist whose artwork has brought so much life to the shop! Stella B Home hosts Sara’s painting classes as an added perk! 

Q: Why did you choose to open a business in Edmond?

 A: I was born and raised in Edmond and my husband and I have two children.  The shop that I rent for Stella B is a family owned building. 

 Q: Where did your passion for interior design come from?

A: Before getting married, I worked at a children’s boutique where I designed custom, high end baby nurseries for 10 years. 

 Q: What is one piece of advice you give to your clients?

A: My one piece of advice that I always give my clients is to always have their house be a reflection of THEM! It seems crazy, but some clients feel like everything must fit into a box. They need to LOVE what they live with! If there is something that they see and they fall in love with it, but it doesn’t quite fit into their “style” that they’re going for, that’s okay!! There are no rules.  Your home should be a reflection and a mixture of things that you are drawn to that bring you comfort and function well for you. 

Q: What are you looking forward to this year?

 A: I’m positive, considering the current economic situation, that what I’m looking forward to the most this year is seeing Americans come back together to build our economy back to what it was before this pandemic.  Americans are resilient and our community in particular has some really amazing small businesses and entrepreneurs.  I am excited to see us- not just recover but prosper.

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McKinzie Aesthetics Center - Member Spotlight

Welcome to our regular feature where we introduce you to the local people who bring such creativity and vision to our community.

We asked McKinzie Aesthetics Center (MAC) Owner, Rachel McKinzie, to tell us about herself and what makes her business so unique.  We are so excited to share this special Scouted Spotlight interview with you!

 Q: Tell us about the history of the McKinzie Aesthetics Center.

 A: McKinzie Aesthetics Center or the MAC started literally at my kitchen table. My sister who is fabulous in the hair industry was my first patient. After I began learning more and more about Botox and filler we began doing “Botox and Blowout” parties together and the rest was history. 

 Q: Why did you choose to open a business in Edmond?

 A: I chose Edmond because that is where I live. It’s home and my priority is to be close to home and my kids. I wanted to create a business that not only will leave a legacy for them but will also create some freedom for me as a working mother to be available for all their activities. I truly believe I am supposed to raise my kids and so being in Edmond allows the best of both worlds, owing a business and being mom. 

 Q: Where did your passion for this business come from?

A: My passion for aesthetics came out of my own personal story. I was looking in the mirror at age 29-ish and my wrinkles wouldn’t go away. Once I found Botox it helped me look on the outside like I felt on the inside, young. I also have personally experienced the exponential confidence boost from plastic surgery and aesthetics and want to help other women experience the same feelings. I always say “confident people can change the world.”

 Q: What is one piece of advice you like to give to your patients?

 A: The biggest piece of advice I can give my patients is to be a little selfish. What I mean by that is as mothers, we tend to do everything for everyone but ourselves. However, when we do nothing for ourselves, we quickly become burned out and exhausted. So again, from personal experience, if we take care of ourselves first, we are better equipped to take care of those we love. So, whether its 30 minutes of exercise a day, taking time to meal prep and eat clean, or Botox, you deserve to have a little self-care.   

 Q: What are you looking forward to this year?

 A: This past year I am overwhelmed with how far we’ve come. I can’t believe how blessed we’ve been and how much we’ve grown. My mission for the MAC has always been three-fold. First, I want to create a place for women to be able to have a job they love and create a life they design. Where we can be the best mothers to our kids and providers to our patients. Second, I want to create a place where our patients can come for exceptional aesthetic care. I want them to know they are getting quality services all while being good stewards of their resources and ours. Third, is our mission minded focus. At the MAC I know it’s not just about what we can do for ourselves and our patients but also those less fortunate than us. There are so many marginalized women and children in this state and I’ve been fortunate this past year to work with organizations like Lilyfield, The Care Center, and Calm Waters. I can’t wait to see how the Lord uses the MAC to continue to bless these and other organizations.

[tsgedmondoklahoma]

April Small Business Giveaways!

To show our love for all of the small businesses currently being impacted, we have decided to do a giveaway each Friday in April! This week’s giveaway is a beautiful bouquet of flowers from Southern Charm! Head to our social media pages to find out how to enter!

[tsgedmondoklahoma]

How to Decorate Your Easter Table {...in the middle of a Pandemic}

We asked Amy with Amy Ray Events to put together a piece about decorating during a pandemic and absolutely love what she had to say! Check out her blog post below!

Photo by Adrienne Turner Photography

Feeling like it would be a wasted effort to decorate for holidays during a pandemic? While I do understand that thought, I’m of the belief that trying to do all the things that feel “normal” during this difficult time can have a profound benefit to your mental health. Go ahead and decorate, do the egg hunt, have fun and embrace the day! And let’s say you’re someone who usually visits a family member’s home for the holiday…without that option this year, why not go ahead and have that special meal with the people (or even just the person) you already live with? And hey, if you’re not a great cook, there are so many fabulous local delivery options out there--no judgment, you’re just trying to keep local businesses alive and stimulate the economy, right?! Whether you pull it from the oven or grab it off your front porch, it is still a holiday meal and you’ll still want the memories for yourself and for your family. True, your holiday will not be the same, but that’s not a reason to disregard some of your favorite aspects of the day!

When it comes to your Easter table this year, you will likely have fewer seats at the table, fewer resources to pull from, and less overall food to cook…that last one isn’t really a sacrifice for me personally…so why not work with what resources you do have and make the holiday feel extra special?!

Let’s talk about how to keep the traditions alive, keep your spirits up, and ways to decorate your table so you can embrace the holiday spirit.

1.     Keep it Simple

Don’t stress yourself out trying to be over the top. If you have tons of décor, and love going all out, go for it! But if you don’t, just find a few pieces that are meaningful, special, and/or look nice. Start with your tablecloth (if you want), place mats (if you want), or even just your chargers/plates. Select items that aren’t used every day for your ordinary meals…this is a holiday after all, make it special. After selecting your dishes, choose your flatware, then glassware, and finally napkins. Once your place settings are complete, you can move onto your centerpiece. You can do this in reverse if you prefer to start with the middle and work your way out, but for me, I like to start with my place settings so I know how much space I’ll have available for a centerpiece so I can decide to go big or scale back.

Photo by Adrienne Turner Photography

2.  Use What You Have

Odds are, you’re not able to do much shopping during this time…now’s your chance to get creative---incorporate items you already have around the house. For my Easter table set up, I decided to go monochromatic with the color scheme and even incorporated some groceries (eggs are a fave of mine to decorate with for Easter). This is a great day to bust out that wedding China, dust off Grandma’s crystal glasses, and feel that sense of memory/tradition when you can’t be with your extended loved ones. And get creative with this whole “using what you have” idea. The table runner on this particular table setting is actually two sheer curtains from my daughter’s bedroom…and those candlesticks are from our fireplace décor…I mean, why not?! Saving on expenses and staying safe by not getting out and purchasing things are key factors in our lives today; use those concepts as fuel for your design. I will admit I was missing the flower arrangements this year, but I know availability and options are limited, so that was one element I intentionally omitted to show you don’t HAVE to have floral in your centerpiece. After the table was all set up, I ended up being happy with the look and hardly noticed the lack of floral. If you are one who loves your flowers and you are lucky enough to have the resources to get an arrangement, then by all means, go for it!!

Photo by Adrienne Turner Photography

3.  No Rules on Style

Hey, no one’s going to see your table except your immediate family; this could be the year to go all out! Maybe let the kids pitch in and decorate their own place settings! Maybe let them dye some Easter eggs and incorporate them into the design? Maybe use a mix of colors you never would even consider trying before? There are no rules this year---experiment with your style! If you’re like me and maybe a little too “Type A” for all that, then pick a style that works for you---for me, I chose minimalist and monochromatic. There is something about all shades of white that make me feel peaceful, reflective, and calm. That’s what I need this holiday, so that’s what I’m doing. Maybe you want some bright fun colors to give you energy and joy--bring it! Now, for some of you, this sort of thing comes naturally. For others, you may want to be inspired. Check out this amazingly adorable Easter table from Home with Holly J. Finding home design bloggers whose style is in line with yours is a fabulous way to be inspired to create your own dream holiday table!

The key to any successful table design is to make it inviting. You want people to WANT to be at the table. Draw them in and make them want to stay. Whether it’s for 20 people (another time, my friend, another time), or 2 people, you can still have a fabulous table for your dearest loved ones to gather around and enjoy your Easter meal!