A Better Option: Pet and House Sitting: A Better Option: Pet and House Sitting will provide professional pet or house sitting while you are away, including overnight stays. (817) 939-5293

Grand Nail Spa: Grand Nail Spa recently opened in Kimball Crossing at 2175 E. Southlake Blvd., Suite 140. They offer all your manicure and pedicure needs. (817) 442-9285

Impact Performance & Fitness: Impact Performance & Fitness recently opened in Cornerstone Business Park at 525 S. Nolen Dr., Suite 100. They are a full spectrum fitness facility. (817) 416-3838 www.ImpactPerformancesl.com

Lacrosse Unlimited: Lacrosse Unlimited recently opened in Shops of Southlake at 1275 E. Southlake Blvd., Suite 433. They sell lacrosse equipment and apparel as well as other name brand apparel and more. (817) 310-5952 www.LacrosseUnlimited.com

ProTect Painters of Northeast Tarrant County: ProTect Painters of Northeast Tarrant County does interior and exterior painting for both residential and commercial. (817) 585-2944 www.ProtectPainters.com/Local-House-Painting/TX/NE-Tarrant-County

Snappy Salads: Snappy Salads recently opened in Kimball Crossing at 2175 E. Southlake Blvd., Suite 180. They serve made-to-order salads, wraps and much more. (817) 251-8888 www.SnappySalads.com

Coming Soon

Claffey Pools – Suntree Square – 100 W. Southlake Blvd., Suite 430 – anticipated opening in May

Forest Park Medical Center – Forest Park Medical Center – 421 E. State Hwy. 114, anticipated opening May 29th

Howard Wang’s China Grill – Shops of Southlake – 1471 E. Southlake Blvd. – anticipated opening in May

Markham Fine Jewelers – Southlake Town Square – 218 State St. – opening date TBD

Men’s Warehouse – Gateway Plaza – 3030 E. Southlake Blvd. – opening date TBD

Subway – Kimball Crossing – 2175 E. Southlake Blvd., Suite 120 – anticipated opening in May

The Toy Haven – Shops of Southlake – 2175 E. Southlake Blvd., Suite 437 – opening date TBD

Torchy’s Tacos – Kimball Crossing – 2175 E. Southlake Blvd., Suite 160 – anticipated opening in June

Trufire – Southlake Town Square – 1239 Main St. – opening date TBD

Whole Earth Provision Co. – Southlake Town Square – 321 State St. – opening date TBD

The statewide survey and awards program was designed to identify, recognize and honor the best places of employment in Texas, benefiting the state’s economy, its workforce and businesses. The program has named Texas Health Southlake to its top 10 list multiple times, but this is the first time the hospital has won the top spot.

“Our top priority is providing the best possible healthcare, and one critical element in doing so is ensuring all of our employees are enthusiastic about coming to work and doing their best for our patients each and every day,” said Traci Bernard, president of Texas Health Southlake.  “This honor is both humbling and rewarding, and we feel honored to have been recognized.”

Firms from across the state entered the two-part survey process to determine the Best Companies to Work for in Texas. The first part consisted of evaluating each nominated company’s workplace policies, systems, philosophies, practices, and demographics. This part of the process was worth approximately 25% of the total evaluation. The second part consisted of an employee survey to measure the employee experience. This part of the process was worth approximately 75% of the total evaluation. The combined scores determined the top companies and the final ranking. Best Companies Group managed the overall registration and survey process in Texas and also analyzed the data and used their expertise to determine the final rankings.

For more information on the Best Companies to Work for in Texas program, visit http://www.bestcompaniestx.com/.

Southlake New Biz List:  April 1, 2013

This list of new Southlake businesses is provided by the Southlake Department of Economic Development and Tourism to help these businesses succeed.  You may also visit www.SouthlakeBusinesses.com to find a list of all businesses.

David Coffin PLLC:  David Coffin PLLC recently opened in Miron Grove Office Park Addition at    270 Miron Dr., Suite 114. This is a law firm handling IRS tax matters.  (817) 251-7049  www.DavidCoffinLaw.com

Duff’s Famous Wings:  Duff’s Famous Wings recently opened in Cornerstone Plaza at 2787 E. Southlake Blvd., Suite 100.  They claim to serve the BEST authentic chicken wings since 1969!  (817) 421-8181  www.DuffsWings.com

Finley’s Barber Shop:  Finley’s Barber Shop recently opened in Kimball Crossing at 2175 E. Southlake Blvd., Suite 110.  They are a personalized, finely crafted barber shop. (817) 488-1999  www.FinleysForMen.com

 Regus:  Regus recently opened in Cedar Ridge at 950 E. State Hwy. 114, Suite 160.  They provide furnished, flexible office space to allow people to work how, when and where they want to work. (214) 991-6738  www.Regus.com

Snowflakes & Crepes Café:  Snowflakes & Crepes Café recently opened in Southlake Bank Place at 3105 E. Southlake Blvd., Suite 140.  They serve babo drinks, crepes, snacks and snowflake snow ice.  (817) 488-8988

The Christmas Shoppe and More:  The Christmas Shoppe and More recently opened in Southlake Town Square at 1450 Main St.  They are now open year-round with custom silk and fresh floral arrangements, holiday and seasonal decor, upscale home decor and accents.  (817) 421-2402  www.ClassicChristmasJoy.com

Total Nutrition:  Total Nutrition recently opened in Kimball Crossing at 2175 E. Southlake Blvd., Suite 130.  They are a nutritional business with top of the line products for athletic, healthy minded individuals.  (817) 416-5600  www.TotalNutritionDallas.com

Ultimate Sport Nutrition:  Ultimate Sport Nutrition recently opened in Wyndham Plaza at 2704 E. Southlake Blvd., Suite 101.  They offer wholesale pricing on vitamins, supplements and sports nutrition.  (817) 749-0186  www.UltimateSN.com

Coming Soon

Claffey Pools – Suntree Square – 100 W. Southlake Blvd., Suite 430 – anticipated opening in May

Howard Wang’s China Grill – Shops of Southlake – 1471 E. Southlake Blvd. – anticipated opening in April

Markham Fine Jewelers – Southlake Town Square – 218 State St. – opening date TBD

Snappy Salads – Kimball Crossing – 2175 E. Southlake Blvd., Suite 180 – anticipated opening in April

 Subway – Kimball Crossing – 2175 E. Southlake Blvd., Suite 120 – anticipated opening in April

Torchy’s Tacos – Kimball Crossing – 2175 E. Southlake Blvd., Suite 160 – anticipated opening in April

Trufire – Southlake Town Square – 1239 Main St. – opening date TBD

Villa Nail Spa – Kimball Crossing – 2175 E. Southlake Blvd., Suite 140 – anticipated opening in April

Whole Earth Provision Co. – Southlake Town Square – 321 State St. – opening date TBD

• Southlake Shootout Golf Tournament: April 22
• Annual Awards Banquet: June 20
• Oktoberfest: October 4-6
• Regional Expo: TBD

According to Board of Directors President Traci Bernard, it’s business as usual despite the departure of former President Dana Davis, who left in February for a position with the Bentonville/Bella Vista Chamber of Commerce in Northwest Arkansas.

“It goes without saying that I received Dana’s resignation with a sense of loss as well as pride in his selection,” states Bernard. “Dana’s contributions to the community of Southlake during his tenure are many. His leadership has influenced practically every aspect of our Chamber, from business to city relations, overall strategy, communications and marketing, information technology, and more.  Dana has been the consummate executive team member and will be missed as both a colleague and friend.”

Leading the Chamber on a day-to-day basis is Interim President Mark Guilbert, who served on the Chamber’s board of directors for more than six years and as chairman from July 1, 2011 through June 30, 2012. Guilbert, along with the board of directors, is using this opportunity to evaluate the Chamber’s programs and future direction before hiring a permanent replacement.

“We are at a crossroads to redefine the Chamber and are taking a step back to determine the position’s role and research salary requirements,” explains Bernard. “We are working closely with the City to define our relationship, specifically as it relates to economic development.”

To do this, Bernard recently met with Southlake Mayor John Terrell and City Manager Shana Yelverton to discuss Southlake’s business recruitment, retention and expansion initiatives. Terrell and Yelverton provided input for the president’s job description and how the City and Chamber might become more closely aligned. Other topics under consideration is to how to expand Oktoberfest, which draws approximately 20,000 people to Southlake and is the Chamber’s largest revenue generator.

One of the most important items on the Chamber’s to-do list this year is to redesign its website, which is already underway and will be overseen by Guilbert in conjunction with i5 web works, an internet marketing agency in Southlake.

“Our mission of serving the needs of local businesses will not change, but we need to make sure we know what those needs are and how we can best address them,” Bernard adds.

For additional information, contact the Southlake Chamber of Commerce at 817-481-8200 or go to www.southlakechamber.com.

• Advantage Air Services:  Advantage Air Services recently opened in Southlake Bank Place at 351 Bank St., Suite 101.  They offer service, repair, and replacement for ac/heating and appliances. (817) 488-7387  www.AdvantageAirServices.net

• Hair By Juliana Adames:  Hair By Juliana Adames recently opened inside Phenix Salon Suites in Wyndham Plaza at 2750 E. Southlake Blvd., Suite 120.  She is an independent master hair stylist and color specialist.  (817) 718-3341 www.HairByJulianaAdames.com

• “Jess” a “Lill” rub by Ruby:  “Jess” a “Lill” rub by Ruby recently opened inside Salons of Southlake in Village Center at 2116 E. Southlake Blvd.  She offers skin care, massages and bodywork treatments.  (214) 223-8537  www.JessaLillRubByRuby.abmp.com

• Mama’s Pizza:  Mama’s Pizza recently opened in Stratfort Gardens at 445 W. Southlake Blvd., Suite 100.  Mama’s special dough, sauces, fresh produce and 100% real cheese, coupled with our family dining atmosphere provide a unique pizza dining experience.  (817) 421-2242  www.MamasPizzas.net

• sWiFt Computers:  sWift Computers can fix, repair, rebuild and do much more to your computer.  (817) 675-3155

• TeamLAX Plus Sporting Goods:  TeamLAX Plus Sporting Goods recently opened in Carroll Oaks at 1101 E. State Hwy. 114, Suite 114.  They carry lacrosse equipment including uniforms, helmets, shafts and women’s and men’s clothing.  (817) 416-4529 www.TeamLAX.com 

• You’ve Got Maids:  You’ve Got Maids recently opened in Commerce Business Park at 2855 Exchange Blvd., Suite 16.  They provide a custom housecleaning service that is engineered around you.  (817) 416-7222  www.DFW.YouveGotMaids.com

Coming Soon

• Duff’s Famous Wings – Cornerstone Plaza – 2787 E. Southlake Blvd., Suite 100 – anticipated opening in March 
• Finley’s Barber Shop – Kimball Crossing – 2175 E. Southlake Blvd., Suite 110 – anticipated opening in March
• Howard Wang’s China Grill – Shops of Southlake – 1471 E. Southlake Blvd. – anticipated opening in March
• Markham Fine Jewelers – Southlake Town Square – 218 State St. – opening date TBD
• Regus – Cedar Ridge – 950 E. State Hwy. 114, Suite 160 – anticipated opening in March
• Snappy Salads – Kimball Crossing – 2175 E. Southlake Blvd., Suite 180 – anticipated opening in March 
• Snowflakes & Crepes – Southlake Bank Place – 3105 E. Southlake Blvd., Suite 140 – opening date TBD
• Subway – Kimball Crossing – 2175 E. Southlake Blvd., Suite 120 – anticipated opening in March
• Torchy’s Tacos – Kimball Crossing – 2175 E. Southlake Blvd., Suite 160 – anticipated opening in March

Bringing New England to Southlake is Daddy Jack’s, which took over the space previously occupied by Cactus Flower Café. Well known for its red checker tablecloths and authentic New England-style seafood, locals have lined up for the lobster rolls, thick clam chowder and fresh seafood. Originally from Nova Scotia, founder “Daddy Jack” Chaplin also owns Chaplin’s in New London, Connecticut. With two other locations in Dallas and Sundance Square, it appears Texans approve of the “northern” menu, as validated by numerous accolades and awards. Daddy’s Jack’s is open daily for lunch and dinner.

Taking over the lower level of the building vacated by Robb & Stucky is Whole Earth Provision Co., a popular Texas-based retailer specializing in clothing and shoes for travel, adventure and fun as well as children’s toys, books and clothing. With locations in Austin, Dallas, Houston and San Antonio, Southlake will be the first store in Tarrant County. Founded in Austin in 1970, the company prides itself on offering a fun, family-friendly environment with carefully chosen, earth-friendly merchandise. The 22,000 square foot store is expected to open in June.

According to spokesperson Johanna Schmidt, the Southlake location will be its largest and elements are being included to reflect the community.

“We found Southlake’s Town Square concept and the energy it creates very appealing. So when the right opportunity came along, we jumped at the chance to join the community,” says Schmidt, describing it as a modern general store. “Southlake will be the ninth and largest Whole Earth Provision Co. store, and we can’t wait to fill it up. We’ll finally have room to showcase all of our favorite merchandise and expand our offerings of men’s, women’s and children’s clothing, travel gear, toys and gifts.”

Coming in late April is TruFire Kitchen & Bar, located at 1239 Main Street (previously Jack’s Porch). With a tagline of “Life Happens in the Kitchen,” TruFire describes itself as cozy, warm and welcoming. Open daily for lunch and dinner, TruFire’s menu is a blend of Mediterranean, Italian and American cuisine — roasted mussels, caprese salad, shrimp diablo pizza, open faced lasagna and spicy garlic noodles are a few examples. TruFire Kitchen & Bar opened in Frisco in 2008; Southlake is the second location.

Adding some “bling” to the retail mix is Markham Fine Jewelers, which will open early summer at 218 State Street between Francesca’s and Jamba Juice. A North Texas third-generation jeweler, Markham specializes in bridal, designer and custom jewelry, and fine Swiss watches. Shoppers will be able to choose from a stunning collection of jewelry designers including Roberto Coin, Jude Frances, Tacori, Dior, Breitling and Bvlgari.

And there is more to come! A public meeting, hosted by Southlake Program for the Involvement of Neighborhoods (SPIN), was held February 11 for a proposed Del Frisco’s Grille at Southlake Town Square. If approved by Planning & Zoning and City Council, the approximate 8,000 square foot, two-story building would be built at the northeast corner of Carroll Avenue and Southlake Boulevard.

Since opening in March 1999, Southlake Town Square has become THE shopping, dining and entertainment destination for not only Southlake residents, but people throughout the metroplex and visitors to the area. With more than 120 shops and restaurants, a 14-screen Harkins theater, upscale Hilton hotel, city government complex, plus businesses and residences, Southlake Town Square has set the bar for successful mixed-use developments. For the latest information about Town Square events and happenings, go to www.southlaketownsquare.com.

To address these issues locally, the Southlake Chamber of Commerce hosted its “State of the Economy” luncheon January 31 with Thomas Siems, PhD, senior economist and economic outreach officer for the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas. Siems stated the nation is progressing from recovery to expansion as a result of the Great Recession that began in 2008, but overall growth will be slow in 2013.
His presentation also compared Texas to other parts of the country and the world:

• Texas ranks #1 in percent of U.S. exports
• Texas housing market remains stable
• Texas employment growth was 2.99% during 2012 compared to U.S. growth of 1.39%
• Texas unemployment rate was 6.1% during 2012 compared to U.S. unemployment of 7.8%
• Texas job growth during 2012 was greater than Australia, Canada, France, Germany, U.K. and Japan

One of the best indicators of the local economy is sales tax revenue, which increased 7.2 percent during 2012 in Southlake for a total of $20.3 million. During November 2012, the kick-off to the holiday shopping season, Southlake collected $1.66 million, up 5.75 percent from 2011.

Southlake’s current sales tax rate is 8.25 percent, of which 6.25 percent goes to the state, one percent goes to the city’s general fund, and 0.5 percent is dedicated to each of two special revenue funds: Crime Control and Prevention District and Southlake Parks Development Corporation.

Greg Last, Director of Economic Development and Tourism for the City of Southlake, partially attributes this growth to new businesses and expanded services.

“We have several programs to help existing businesses as well as added services to highlight new businesses,” said Last, noting the department sends out a New Biz List each month to more than 650 email addresses. The list includes businesses that opened in the prior month as well as those that are ‘coming soon.’ He added “anyone can subscribe to the Biz List by contacting the Economic Development Department at econdev@ci.southlake.tx.us.

Of the 87 new businesses that opened in Southlake during 2012, many did fill retail, restaurant and office spaces previously left vacant as a result of the recession:

• Walmart Neighborhood Market opened in Southlake Marketplace in the former 59,000 square foot Albertson’s.
• Mellow Mushroom made modifications and occupied the 4,000 square foot building previously occupied by Baker Brothers.
• HomeGoods moved into 30,000 square feet in the Southlake Corners shopping center.
• American Specialty Health took over 50,000 square feet of space previously occupied by Fidelity Investments.
• All American Family Fitness opened in the former 10,900 square foot Larry North Fitness location.

Also of note are two businesses that opened in 2012 in newly constructed buildings:

• Patrizio’s opened its 8,900 square foot restaurant near the northeast corner of Carroll Avenue and S.H. 114.
• Bonefish Grill built a 5,600 square foot building in the Shops of Southlake.

Looking ahead to 2013, Last expects continued growth with new businesses scheduled to open, including the 140,000 square foot Forest Park Medical Center in June, as well as several projects in the permitting or approval phase.

“Southlake’s economy is recovering stronger and faster than other areas. It is a regional destination for retail and restaurants and I expect that to continue.”

For more information and access to all Southlake businesses, visit the City of Southlake Economic Development website at www.SouthlakeBusinesses.com.

Regus specializes in providing professional work space on demand — whether you need it for the hour, day, month or longer. The Southlake center will have fully furnished offices, a business “lounge” for traveling executives, and  conference rooms with state-of-the-art video communication services. Services include on-site administrative support; telephone answering; mail collection; access to printers, copiers and scanners; and free wi-fi and refreshments.

According to Mary Rose Eaves, who will manage the Southlake business center, pre-leasing is already underway. Prices start at $30/month and go up from there. Solutions are customized to meet a client’s needs. Regus is currently offering three months free with a 12-month agreement, which includes covered parking.

“We chose Southlake because of it’s convenient location, with easy access to DFW and Alliance Airports, saving commuters time to Dallas or Fort Worth,” Eaves stated. “We provide busy professionals with an effective, efficient and professional workplace wherever and however they need it. Our flexible office space offers more savings, more services and more choices.”

The Regus Southlake Business Center can accommodate businesses large and small, branch or sales offices, agencies, and solo entrepreneurs. Size and terms are flexible to provide the most cost-effective solutions.

• Full time office space
• Part time offices
• Day offices  
• Virtual offices
• Executive suites
• Private and shared workspaces
• Hot desking

One of Regus’ most innovative concepts is the business lounge, which offers everyone from traveling executives to people working from home a convenient place to work and hold meetings for one hour up to a full day.

“We realize there are many home-based businesses in this area and Regus offers packages to specifically address their needs, such as providing a business address, administrative support, and meeting rooms that offer a more private, professional environment than a coffee shop,” Eaves explains, noting there are no insurance, maintenance or utility charges.

The Southlake Cedar Ridge office space occupies a central position in Cedar Ridge Office Park. The smart, low-rise building is set in attractive landscaped green space with direct access to Highway 114. Regus also has business centers in Arlington, Las Colinas, Fort Worth and Dallas.

Regus Southlake Business Center is located at 950 E.Highway 114, Suite 160, Southlake,Texas 76092, at the northwest corner o fCarroll Avenue and S.H. 114. For more information, call 214.991.6738 or email maryrose.eaves@regus.com.

• ASPIRE Interventions:  ASPIRE Interventions recently opened in Panorama Place at 430 N. Carroll Ave., Suite 110.  This is a speech-language pathology office.  (866) 738-6828

• Bryan Laurence Hair Studio:  Bryan Laurence Hair Studio recently opened inside Salons of Southlake in Village Center at 2116 E. Southlake Blvd.  He does precision haircuts and styling uniquely designed for each individual.  (817) 851-2109  www.Vagaro.com/BryanLaurenceHairStudio

• Daddy Jack’s Lobster and Chowder House:  Daddy Jack’s Lobster and Chowder House recently opened in Southlake Town Square at 355 N. Carroll.  They specialize in lobster and northeastern style preparations.  (817) 442-0983  www.DaddyJacks.org

• Early Spring Arts:  Early Spring Arts recently opened in Commerce Business Park at 2820 Market Loop, Suite 100.  They are an eclectic and exciting professional dance company with an innovative style and a positive, inspiring message.  (817) 823-0684  www.EarlySpringArts.com

• Mark A. Bishara, M.D.:  Mark A. Bishara, M.D. recently opened in Courtyard at Timarron at 1203 S. White Chapel Blvd., Suite 150.  This office offers cosmetic surgery, hair transplant, robotic hair transplant, spa, laser, tattoo removal, hair removal, photo facial and liposuction.  (817) 473-2120  www.MarkBisharaMD.com

• Priority Signs & Graphics:  Priority Signs & Graphics recently opened in Commerce Business Park at 2838 Market Loop, Suite 104.  They are a full service commercial sign and vehicle wrap company.  (972) 302-1907  www.PrioritySignsAndGraphics.com

• Salons of Southlake:  Salons of Southlake recently opened in Village Center at 2116 E. Southlake Blvd.  They are a community of Independent Operators offering a wide array of beauty services.  (817) 488-7111 www.SalonsOfSouthlake.com

• Southlake Hypnosis:  Southlake Hypnosis recently opened at 190 S. Peytonville Ave., Suite 120.   Hypnosis is an effective way to overcome many issues such as smoking, weight loss, phobias, and even teeth grinding.  (817) 523-8088  www.SouthlakeHypnosis.com

• Southlake Select Medical Services:  Southlake Select Medical Services recently opened in Georgetown Park at 2615 E. Southlake Blvd., Suite 110.  They offer a variety of surgical and      non-surgical cosmetic procedures.  (817) 589-4879  www.SouthlakeMedicalAndCosmeticServices.com

• The Hair Lounge:  The Hair Lounge recently opened inside Phoenix Salon Suites in Wyndham Plaza at 2750 E. Southlake Blvd., Suite 170 & 180.  They offer all your hair salon needs.  (972) 754-6641

• Waterworth Wealth Advisors, LLC:  Waterworth Wealth Advisors, LLC recently opened in Cedar Ridge at 950 E. State Hwy. 114, Suite 105.  They are a financial planning company that offers comprehensive financial planning as well as a wide range of alternative investments.  (817) 410-9000 www.WaterWorthWA.com

Coming Soon

Finley’s Barber Shop – Kimball Crossing – 2175 E. Southlake Blvd., Suite 110 – anticipated opening in February

Howard Wang’s China Grill – Shops of Southlake – 1471 E. Southlake Blvd. – anticipated opening in March

Mama’s Pizza – Stratfort Gardens – 445 W. Southlake Blvd., Suite 100 – opening date TBD

Markham Fine Jewelers – Southlake Town Square – 218 State St. – opening date TBD

Regus – Cedar Ridge – 950 E. State Hwy. 114, Suite 160 – anticipated opening in March

Snappy Salads – Kimball Crossing – 2175 E. Southlake Blvd., Suite 180 – anticipated opening in February

Snowflakes & Crepes – Southlake Bank Place – 3105 E. Southlake Blvd., Suite 140 – opening date TBD

Subway – Kimball Crossing – 2175 E. Southlake Blvd., Suite 120 – anticipated opening in March

Torchy’s Tacos – Kimball Crossing – 2175 E. Southlake Blvd., Suite 160 – anticipated opening in February

Total Nutrition – Kimball Crossing – 2175 E. Southlake Blvd., Suite 130 – anticipated opening in February

Trufire – Southlake Town Square – 1239 Main St. – opening date TBD

Villa Nail Spa – Kimball Crossing – 2175 E. Southlake Blvd., Suite 140 – anticipated opening in February

Whole Earth Provisions – Southlake Town Square – 301 State St. – opening date TBD

Lemongrass Salon Wins 2012 Deck the Windows Contest

The votes have been counted and shoppers deemed Lemongrass Salon in Southlake Town Square the best dressed storefront in the Third Annual Deck the Windows contest sponsored by City of Southlake. During November 23 through December 24, retailers throughout the city were invited to put their holiday spirit front-and-center with a festive storefront display. Decals placed in the window allowed shoppers to easily cast a vote via text or email (only one vote per email address or telephone number was accepted).

Lemongrass Salon was one of 14 stores that received votes during the month-long contest, garnering 65 of the total 150 votes. The Christmas Shoppe and Bag n’ Baggage came in second and third place, respectively.

“Our inspiration was drawn from Aveda’s partnership with the people of Nepal, who have been hand crafting paper in a sustainable process for Aveda to package our holiday gift sets,” explains General Manager Daniel Berry, noting Lemongrass is an Aveda Lifestyle Salon and carries a complete line of Aveda products. “Simple silhouettes of the Himalayan Mountains were the backdrop of both windows and the falling snow flakes, accumulated drifts and snow caps complete this winter wonderland. We also incorporated elements from our salon like painted hair dryers, combs, and scissors with classic holiday colors of green and red to match our handmade gift sets.”

According to Berry, Lemongrass was determined to win this time after coming in second place in 2011 — a few votes behind the winner, Corinthian Wellness Spa.

“We promoted our participation in the contest in phases starting with votes from our service and retail guests, then internal votes from email throughout the company network, and lastly, with a social media promotion through our Lemongrass Facebook page,” he states.

According to Jill Lind, Southlake’s marketing and tourism coordinator, the promotion is based upon the strategy that the most noteworthy holiday display windows typically produce extraordinary sales results, and great window design is effective in drawing shoppers into the store.

“We are thrilled to have completed another year of our Deck the Windows contest!  We had some stores really get into it, which is great!  Part of the reason we do this is to create a buzz within the businesses themselves. We received a lot of votes and in the end, we think the program was a tremendous success,” says Lind, noting this year’s contest was simplified to make it easier for businesses to participate and shoppers to cast votes.

Deck the Windows is part of Southlake’s Home for the Holidays six-week celebration. For more information, contact Jill Lind at 817-748-8652 or email at jlind@visitsouthlaketexas.com.