Fashion Studio
1111 WESTHEIMER, Houston, TX 77006
713.529.3667 | www.FASHIONSTUDIOHOUSTON.COM

How did you get into this business?
It was over 11 years ago. I started as a designer and I worked with Bill Blass, as well as Polo Ralph Lauren.

What or who inspires you?
My friends. The Montrose community. There’s a great sense of individuality here.

What sets you apart from other stores?
We are really interested in making sure that if you shop with us, we get to know you and make sure that what you buy looks great on you. Fashion Studio is not just a clothing store – it’s a social scene. We want you to come in, hang out, have a drink with us. Great style and a good time – that’s what we’re about.

What are some of your favorite items in your shop now?
We just started getting in items from G-Star’s spring collection. I will be taking some of those items home for myself.

What do you specialize in?
Clothing for the guy that’s confident in their decisions. They like clothing that has character; it’s bolder, more daring than most stores but always tasteful.
For women, we carry occasion wear. Each item is a limited run, so when you buy it, you know that only a handful of other people have it.

What do you think is new this season that is going to be big?
Patterns, bold colors, unconventional layering, scarves, new elements of accessories.

Favorites
Place for coffee: Starbucks
City to shop: Houston, of course!
Travel destination: I love to travel. There are so many great places. I’ve had a great time in NY, Miami (South Beach – where else?)
Flower and where to get them: Johnathan Andrew Sage
(Since I have a lot of beautiful female friends.)
Wine: I love red wine.

6 tips for achieving your own style/design
1. Fit is very important. If it doesn’t fit right, go to the tailor.
2. Know what colors look best on you.
3. Wear clothing that reflects your lifestyle and makes sense.
4. Get help from people that know fashion.
5. Wear it with confidence. If you don’t wear it, it’s going to wear you.
6. You can buy designer but you cannot buy style.

Photography by Jill Hunter

check other outfitters
owners fiona boyd + tommy bumps
2507 bagby, Houston, TX 77006 | 713.521.5880 | www.checkotheroutfitters.com

How did you get into this business?
Tommy has had a passion for fashion since his childhood. He moved from Los Angeles to Atlanta and finally to Houston where that passion was further fueled by his involvement in the local hip-hop community. Meanwhile my career as a market analyst with a strong entrepreneurial spirit led me to this path. In 2009 we were both in our early 30’s and at a crossroads in life. Following the sale of my family business in 2010, we were fortunate to have the time and resources to pursue the dream of opening our own store, calling upon Tommy’s keen fashion sense and my business expertise.

What or who inspires you?
Things that are different or outside of the box (as in “check other”). The name “Check Other” describes individuality and creativity and represents open-minded individuals who are above the cutting edge when it comes to fashion. We are inspired by surrounding ourselves with like-minded people. A sense of progression rather than regression keeps us motivated.

What sets you apart from other stores?
Our goal is to offer unique items – things that you will not find in a department store or, in some cases, not even in the United States. One brand we offer is a Singapore-based line – we choose the designs and personally bring them back to the States.
We also embrace our community by hosting events such as album listenings or film/video screenings. We also offer local artists’ music in our shop and most of our artwork is from local artists. Giving back to the community is also important for any business.

What are some of your favorite items in your shop now?
Anything from Pink Dolphin! We were the first store in Texas to carry this California-based line. Very different designs from the everyday. Other favorites would be some colorful backpacks from Sprayground and throw pillows from Acrylik. We also love the Vestal line of sunglasses and watches.

What do you specialize in?
Exclusive streetwear brands.

What do you think is new this season that is going to be big?
Denim jackets are coming back with a vengeance. Trends for men are letterman jackets and baseball/raglan tops. For women we are seeing more wraps and casual knee-high boots as opposed to the standard black leather/suede.

Questions answered by Fiona Boyd.

Favorites
Place for coffee: Neither one of us drinks coffee (gasp!) but if we did – Coffee Groundz, because they are next door!
City to shop: Los Angeles and Singapore.
Travel destination: Singapore.
Flower and where to get them: Hydrangeas. You can’t beat the price selection from Central Market.
Wine: We love French white wine and for red, Pinot Noir from Oregon is awesome.

5 tips for achieving your own style/design
1. Number one rule is you have to be comfortable – physically and mentally – or you are just not going to pull it off.
2. Incorporate new pieces
with vintage.
3. Work within your budget.
4. Spend money on key foundation pieces, such as jeans, that you can incorporate into several styles.
5. If you have trouble defining your style, consider others’ styles and use different elements.

Photography by Jill Hunter

HEIGHTS ANTIQUE CLUSTER

Denny Registor Antiques

How did you get into this business?

Janet Wiebe Antiques Buying and selling out of my garage.

Judith’s Wholesale Family business, 3rd generation on both sides of the family.

Denny Registor Antiques 22 years ago I started to fulfill the dream to do something for a living I truly enjoyed.

Vandrick James Furniture, LLC James began the business 27 years ago in a small shop on Washington Avenue. Kenny, his partner, joined 11 years ago. 10 years ago we had 20 designers who worked with James on a regular basis. From our humble beginnings plus some hard work, today we are proud to say we have grown into a small business with 12 employees that meet the needs of over 90 interior designers who call Vandrick James Furniture their preferred upholsterer.

JUDITH’S WHOLESALE

What sets you apart from other stores?

Janet Wiebe Antiques I buy with passion!

Denny Registor Antiques I strive to provide unusual items and decorative furnishings.

VANDRICK JAMES FURNITURE

What or who inspires you?

Judith’s Wholesale Strong women and culture from everywhere. People in general, but mostly my kids.

All six of them!

What are some of your favorites items in your shop now?

Janet Wiebe Antiques My paintings and architectural pieces – and of course fabulous chandeliers.

Judith’s Wholesale Lol…right now we are selling out of our champagne tubs, zinc and crate stools. They are great one-of-a-kind upholstery topped stools. We have them covered in vintage grain bags, linen and burlap. Check out the pictures online.

What do you specialize in?

Denny Registor Antiques Furniture and accessories. I have many chairs, which are a favorite among designers for reupholstering.

Vandrick James Furniture, LLC In addition to our custom furniture, we do re-upholstery and wall upholstery. We also have the capability of handling large commercial jobs. In 2010, our projects included 51fifteen inside Saks in The Galleria and the River Oaks Country Club. Our custom furniture and re-upholstery work has been seen in both local and national interior design magazines, an accomplishment that we are very proud of.

What do you think is new (or old) this season that is going to be big?

Janet Wiebe Antiques Great case pieces bleached and painted, plus over-the-top mirrors.

Judith’s Wholesale I believe that the business is changing faster and faster. Casual is coming full blast, but high-end casual. Cooling things like rattan and light colors, earth tones with the flares of color are migrating as well. Gray is still in, but darker shades only. Oh, and everything must have a function. People are tired of clutter!

Do you have any tips for readers going to Round Top?

Janet Wiebe Antiques Comfortable shoes, sunscreen and cash.

Judith’s Wholesale It will be very crowded. Wear your good walking shoes and drive a pickup truck. It can be one of the best fairs to see in the world. And believe me, I would know! I’ve seen most. The bargains are in the fields and the best things that you might never see again are in the big venues.

Denny Registor Antiques Wear comfortable shoes, enjoy the outing and buy something that makes you happy!

Can you tell us about “great finds” that have gotten your heart racing? Or hunting down something particular for a client and finding it?

Janet Wiebe Antiques I’m in France now and bought the most fabulous 18th-century cabinet last night (I almost

fainted!) and religious art. Love it.

Denny Registor Antiques A great find is something that was requested by my customer. A satisfied customer always makes me happy.

Favorites

Judith’s Wholesale Place for coffee: My mother’s kitchen. City to shop: Lille or Le Man, France. Travel destination: Europe and the UK, in general. Flower and where to get them: Tulips in the underground flower auctions, near Amsterdam, Holland. Wine: Anything red, white or blush. I like beer from Belgium.

Janet Wiebe Antiques Place for coffee: Katz coffee. We even bring it with us to Europe. City to shop: Paris. Travel destination: Spain and Morocco. Flower and where to get them: Tulips from Holland. Wine: Vin du pays from my travels.

Denny Registor Antiques Flower and where to get them: Plant House, 224 Westheimer.

JANET WIEBE ANTIQUES

tips for achieving your own style/design

Janet Wiebe Antiques Buy what you love!!!!!!!!!!!!

Denny Registor Antiques Always buy the items you love. Never buy an item just because it goes with something you have. Don’t worry about opinions of others – make yourself happy! Reflect your personality.

Vandrick James Furniture, LLC Don’t be afraid to try what YOU like. Don’t submit your personal style to what others tell you to do. At the end of the day as long as you’re happy with your own style, that’s what matters most. Think outside the box. Look around for what inspires you. Great design and inspiration are everywhere; the trick is you have to be willing to truly open your eyes and see it. “Everything old is new again.” If you understand great style and design from the past, creating design for the future is easier. Just be fearless. When it comes to creativity and innovation, there is no room to be timid!

JUDITH’S WHOLESALE

Janet Wiebe Antiques – 1001 1/2 West 34th Street

512.773.4499 | www.janetwiebeantiques.com | Years in operation 20

Judith’s Wholesale – 1001d W. 34th Street

713.880.9449 | www.Antiquesandlinens.com | Years in operation 50+ years

Denny Registor Antiques – 1001a W. 34th Street

713.520.0078 | Years in operation 22 years

Vandrick James Furniture – 1003 1/2 W. 34th Street, Suite A

713.426.2500 | www.vandrickjames.com | Years in operation 27 years

One of the nation’s best antique festivals takes place March 29 – April 2. The Marburger Farm Antique Show in Round Top, Texas is family-friendly, even dog-friendly! Over 350 dealers converge on 43 acres. Ten super-size tents and 12 historic buildings spill over with antiques from French to Fifties. The show opens for early buying with $25 admission on Tuesday, March 29, from 10am – 2pm, when regular $10 admission begins. Tuesday evening, extended shopping hours until 7pm ldirectly benefit Texas Children’s Hospital with a portion of the show’s proceeds benefiting the hospital. Admission is good all week, with the show running on Wednesday thru Friday from 9am to 5pm and Saturday, 9am to 4pm. For information on vendors, travel, maps, lodging, shipping and special events at www.roundtop-marburger.com or call Rick McConn at 800.999.2148 or Ashley Ferguson at 800.947.5799.

Photography by Jill Hunter

SHERRI & WILL SAKSON KID TO KID HOUSTON GALLERIA

years in operation 1 month

1737 Post Oak Blvd. @ San Felipe | 713.622.2545 | www.kidtokid.com

How did you get into this business?

Sherri sold Lil’ Squeaks baby squeaky shoes as a home business for about 4 years prior to Kid to Kid. We loved shopping at the Kid to Kid in The Woodlands and decided we needed something like this in our part of town. Will quit his job in business consulting to do all of the accounting and computers at the store.

What sets you apart from other boutiques?

Kid to Kid is a children’s resale shop (we go up to size 14). We are different from other “consignment” stores in that we pay cash up front for your gently used items (20% more than the cash price if you choose to take store credit instead!). We like to say that you can sell, shop and save all in one trip.

What are some of your favorites?

My personal favorite brands are Anavini, Bailey Boys, Tea and Hanna Andersson.

We also have True Religion and Burberry in our store right now!

What do you hope to achieve with this concept?

We are providing gently used children’s clothing, shoes, equipment, toys and maternity to our customers at amazing prices. It only makes sense since kids grow so fast.

What are you coveting this season?

In addition to used items, we carry about 20% new products. We’ve got some great new items right now including Bella bands, kids watches, diaper bags, princess necklaces, bracelets and tubs of dinosaurs.

RULES OF STYLE FOR KIDS
Functional and fashionable! Our 6-year-old daughter answers this question with “twirly, sparkly and cloppy (flip-flop) shoes.”

Photography by Jill Hunter

LISA POUNDS | GREEN PLATE KIDS, LLC

years in operation 1 year

5200 West Loop South, Suite 205, Bellaire, TX 77401 713.665.5885

www.greenplatekids.com

Retail Sales through Smart Meals:

2612A South Shepherd Drive,

Houston, TX 77098, and New Living,

6111 Kirby, Houston, TX 77005

How did you get into this business?

Like many women, I am a working mom, passionate about food and nutrition.   Facing the new challenge of providing healthy food for my young daughter I quickly realized that I had a lot to learn and began researching and learning all I could about healthy, nutritious and great-tasting foods for children. While there are an increasing number of convenient, healthy food options for adults, there are few choices available for children that are nutritious, natural (without artificial ingredients), fresh and ready-to-eat. Green Plate Kids was born from the idea that there must be other busy parents who don’t have the time to prepare meals for their families but still want to provide them with healthy, fresh and nutritious meals.

What sets you apart from other pick-up food concepts?

We have a very different model than other pick-up food concepts in Houston. In addition to offering pick up through our retail partners, Smart Meals and New Living, we offer home delivery, provide daily lunch programs with private schools and offer event catering for both children and adults. Our menu is designed by a licensed dietitian and trained chef and is kid-tested and approved. We use organic and locally produced products when available and base our menu on a healthy balance of the “greenest,” most nutritious and best-tasting food for families.

Green Plate Kids is passionate about education, and in addition to speaking regularly at schools, local moms groups and other groups in Houston, we have some exciting events and classes coming soon with our new partner, New Living. We are also a sponsor and educational partner with Recipe for Success, the Houston nonprofit organization dedicated to combating childhood obesity.

What are some of your favorites? What about kid’s?

My personal favorites are the turkey tacos and cherry chocolate nubblers (these also go great with a glass of red wine!). The kids’ favorites (including my daughter) are the yummy mac and cheese, pizza day (any of them, especially our nitrate-free pepperoni) and turkey meatballs and pasta.

What do you hope to achieve with this concept?

We hope to offer parents a healthy alternative and enable them to easily be able to put a healthy and really tasty family meal on the table in minutes without the hassle of shopping and cooking.

Realistically, how practical are your meals for a family?

Our kids’ meals range from $4.95-$5.95 (depending on size) and our family meals start at $23.95 to feed a family of 4 with sides! So it is a very reasonable alternative to takeout or just to provide a break from cooking. We recommend enjoying our food within 4 days or you may freeze it and enjoy later. Our meals are available through our retail partners every day or delivery is available on Tuesdays and Fridays through our website.

5 TIPS FOR GETTING KIDS TO EAT WELL:

1. A parent’s role is to make healthy choices for their children and to help them determine the

appropriate foods at the appropriate times.

2. Offer a variety of foods. Your child’s tastes will change over time. Children will explore new foods on

their time and in their way and will be more willing to try new foods if they are not forced.

3. Serve foods with different textures, colors, shapes and tastes. Children learn through their senses.

Let your child experiment and “play” with their food.

4. Provide at least one food you know your child will eat so you will not be afraid they will go hungry.

5. Stick to your scheduled meal times and snacks. If your child does not want to eat much food at

lunch, remind her that the kitchen is closed until snack time (or the next scheduled meal). If you allow

your child to snack throughout the day, it will be very easy for them to ignore that spinach at dinner.

SACHA NELSON + IRIS SIFF | MORTAR

SACHA NELSON + IRIS SIFF | MORTAR

years in operation established 2010
1911 Westheimer Rd., Houston TX 77098 | 713.529.0009
www.shopmortar.com

Iris Siff chats with 002

Current obsession: U.S. designed and sewn collections like Baldwin, Raleigh Denim, Left Field and Hamilton 1883.

Design inspiration/icon: Clean lines, modern but classic silhouettes and zero ornamentation. Paul Neuman has a great look.

How did you get into this business? My family has been involved in the retail industry for generations. Growing up I heard stories about my grandfather’s shoe stores. When he was in high school, my dad helped out in the 19th Street location. I have always appreciated the personalized and unique experience you get with a small business. Opening MORTAR has been the fulfillment of a longtime dream.

What sets you apart from other boutiques? Our singular focus is on process and craft. We find pieces and collections that we feel are relevant not only in the current season but the future as well.

What are you coveting this season? We’re carrying the first menswear collection from designer Zero + Maria Cornejo, which I’m really excited about. Their designs are architectural and contemporary – and their construction is unlike anything else I’ve seen in the market.

RULES OF STYLE

1 Invest in the basics, t-shirts and denim.

2 Focus on construction details, fabric and fit.

3 Individualize your look with a few key accessories.

HAYRI GURBUZ | FLORA & MUSE [bistro+bar+coffee+flowers]
years in operation: one month!
12860 Queensbury Ln., Houston TX 77024 [citycentre]  | www.floraandmuse.com

How did you get into the business?

I have always been amazed by the hospitality business since my childhood. I worked in a few Mediterranean resorts when I was in high school summer breaks and witnessed how hospitality business can bring together different people from different locations/cultural backgrounds and create joyful experiences. My desire to discover and curiosity to learn took me to the US and after the completion of my master’s program, I got into the hotel business. Many years later my good friends and I decided to create a concept where people can gather and share happy moments together…and that was the beginning of Flora & Muse.

What sets you apart from other stores?

Our goal was to create an entirely memorable experience that captures all the five senses. It represents a multifaceted bistro that will offer continuous food and beverage service from morning until late evening in a neo-Victorian setting encompassing numerous indoor and alfresco seating vignettes. We will merge more traditional restaurant and bar elements with offerings such as a fresh flower stand, barista-style coffee counter, patisserie, wood-burning baking oven and proper afternoon tea service.

Current obsession?

I find traveling one of the essential parts of life. Another obsession comes alongside the Flora & Muse concept…I find learning more about food, coffee and flowers quite exciting.

What should people look for that they can only get with you?

What I admire in other people is what I strive for achieving, such as integrity, humility and genuineness. This is what I will offer every customer and diner.

5 TIPS TO STARTING A NEW CONCEPT

1 Know your audience!

2 Your friends and family are more important than you think.

3 Always ask yourself whether you think you can or whether you think

you can’t; you’re right.

4 Expect the best and be prepared for the worst.

5 Find inspiration every day – discover/travel/see a new place each

week, even if it is a few miles away from your home.

Photography by Carlos Canales

BRAD BLUME + SEAN RUDOLPH | TENNIS EXPRESS

years in operation | 2010 is our 10th anniversary
11026 Westheimer Rd., Houston TX 77042  | 713.435.4800 | www.tennisexpress.com

How did you get into the business?
We love tennis. It’s a lifetime sport.

What sets you apart from other sports stores?
We know tennis! Tennis Express is a tennis specialty store with a team comprised of unique individuals that love and play the game. Our enthusiasm shows through our team members who are full of confidence and personality. Our associates love to have fun and enjoy nurturing the inner champion in each and every customer. Tennis Express was built on sharing knowledge with friends and customers. We’re Houston proud! There isn’t another store in the country like us. The depth of products we carry is unmatched with the best selection of top brands and expert service at fair prices.

What are you known for?
Tennis Express – a candy store for tennis players!

Why tennis?
It’s a lifetime sport. It’s a family sport. The real answer to that question lies in the John Isner (USA) and Nicolas Mahut (FRA) first round match at Wimbledon. Isner took the match winning the 5th set 70-68. There wasn’t a loser. That match was the greatest advertisement for the sport of tennis!

How do you stay current and ensure you carry the things your clients need as well as the things they end up wanting?
With over sixty team members who love tennis, we get plenty of input on new products, apparel and equipment to feature and carry. Our friendly customers are a huge asset because they love giving us feedback about different products. For instance, one customer asked us to carry “Yellowbox” shoes. She helped us choose the first order and brought in ten of her friends to shop once we received the sandals. Another customer asked us to carry Maui Jim Sunglasses and has not only purchased a few pairs, but recruited friends to purchase them too. We’re a big tennis family.

5 RULES OF TENNIS STYLE

1 Keep it classy and simple – dress your body type and follow the trends that complement and emphasize your assets.

2 Protect yourself from injury – keep your tennis gear current and up-to-date.

3 It’s not a style guideline, but be kind to your skin – always use a great sunscreen for your body and face on court.

4 Always have a pair of sunglasses handy – the perfect cherry on top of any outfit.

5 You can never go wrong with basics.

Awards: 1. Tennis Express is the Tennis Industry’s “Retailer of the Year”! | 2. Tennis Express is the Babolat “Retailer of the Year”!  [The racquet of choice for Rafael Nadal (ESP) and Andy Roddick (USA)]

Photography by Jaime Lagdameo