#tsgnwarkansas

Lifestyle blogger Collins Tuohy Smith’s namesake — The Collins Crossbody — is a fan favorite from her recent collaboration with Gigi New York creating a Game Day Collection of stadium-approved clear handbags and on-trend tassel charms in team colors. Photo courtesy of Collins Tuohy Smith.

Get Ready for Game Day!

The 2018 Arkansas Razorbacks football season officially kicks off in less than eight weeks and we are already getting giddy about what we will wear for that first game day (Save the Date: 09.01.18 at 3pm CST). In keeping with this epic countdown, Monica Terminella, owner/founder of the women’s fashion boutique By Request in Fayetteville, has hatched a game day plan to host a two-day trunk show event featuring a new handbag line collaboration by Collins Tuohy Smith, Memphis entrepreneur, author of the lifestyle blog Collins Closets and subject in one of our all-time favorite movies The Blindside. 

Collins’ street style and sporting events inspired creative vision to curate a Game Day Collection with handbag and accessories maker GiGi New York has resulted in the design of a special Game Day Clear Bag Collection that meets NFL/NCAA stadium handbag regulations. The handbag designs are a chic solution to what could have been a total “fashion fail” in the world of college sporting event’s “outfit of the day.” 

“I was going to my brother’s NFL games that year, and suddenly they announced every stadium would be going to a ‘clear bag policy.’ This put a major cramp in my game day style.” —Collins Tuohy Smith

Collins sports her game day style wearing the classic-shaped Collins Crossbody. Photo courtesy of Collins Touhy Smith.

The Game Day Collection line features three different classic handbags with the body made of clear durable PVC plastic accented with Vachetta leather trim (colors: black or natural tan) that can also be accessorized with a leather tassel charm available in your favorite “team colors” (14 different color combos in which to choose). The Game Day Collection consists of three distinct styles: one inspired by Collins herself (The Collins Crossbody — our fav and a best seller show above) and the other two styles’ are named after Collins’ mother (The Leigh Anne Crossbody — shown below) and grandmother (The Virginia Hobo).

The Leigh Anne Crossbody features a detachable gold chain/Vachetta leather detail (available in black or natural tan). Photos courtesy of GiGi New York.

With great excitement for representing the entire Game Day line of handbags at By Request, Monica explains, “My personal affinity for this special collection comes from simply living in a college town where Razorback pride is powerfully expressed in everyday fashion. GiGi New York is a proven brand that we’ve carried for years. We are directly meeting a need in a way that provides style as well as personalization.”

Ready to call the Hogs with the Game Day Collection clear Collins Crossbody and must-have essentials Diego Dalla Palma clear lip gloss, Maui Jim aviators and an Arkansas Razorback red/white tassel charm — all from By Request.

Lake House Lovely à la Laura Ozturk Interiors

If all this pandemic-related housebound time has you dreaming of redecorating or compulsively house hunting like us, then you will just love our recent interview with Fayetteville-based designer Laura Bullock-Ozturk of Laura Ozturk Interiors. She just finished the most out-of-this-world lake house retreat that is inspired by all things peace and water. We asked Laura to take us on a little tour of this project and give us some insight into what it’s like to live locally these days. Enjoy the view!

The Scout Guide: Tell us about this lake house!

Laura Ozturk: Having recently completed my dream project at a friend’s stunning lake house in Hot Springs, I am beyond grateful to the clients in trusting me to guide them through the design process. Transforming ideas to fruition while witnessing the joy of my clients with the outcome is always exciting, but what I really loved about this particular project was the client indulging me with carte blanche to implement custom-built features throughout their home. Although no attention to detail was spared, the space is sophisticated yet calm because of the subtle mix of neutral color palettes and patterns with the focus of course gravitating towards the water.

This Gabriel Scott lighting fixture was featured on the cover of a recent issue of Architectural Digest, and it takes center stage in the kitchen of the lake house designed by Laura Ozturk.

TSG: Where did you begin this project?

LO: Like most designers, I share my inspiration pieces on social media, and upon posting a photo of this gorgeous Gabriel Scott light fixture, the client immediately reached out to me and said, “I have to have this.” Once we discussed implementing this jewel-like statement piece into their kitchen, the design process continued from there. Because the clients have such an appreciation for timeless design blended with intricate details, collaborating with them in achieving their ultimate vision was exhilarating from beginning to end.

Ceiling detail in the house’s entryway is designed to evoke the feeling of waves in the ocean. 

TSG: Besides that light, what are some of your other favorite features?

LO: Inspired by the family’s love for the ocean, the entire house was designed to have a Malibu feel to it which was achieved by adding finishing touches such as the undulating ceiling detail in the entryway that mimics the waves of the ocean. Each space has a subtle nod to the ocean rolling throughout the house with this particular entryway showcasing yet another exceptional ceiling detail.

TSG: What is your favorite room in the house?

LO: The dark and moody ambience of the primary bedroom is my favorite because everything in it was custom made from the incredible ceiling detail that closely mirrors the geometric shapes of the statement lighting in the kitchen to the Venetian plaster walls and gorgeous floor to ceiling drapery. The room is immersed in serene colors and layered textures that remain harmonious to the ocean-inspired vision for the house.

(Above) The sitting room that leads onto the master bedroom at the Laura Ozturk-designed Hot Springs lake house. (Below) Another room evokes the peacefulness of the lake with neutral tones, statement light fixtures and the layering of textures. 

TSG: How does this house reflect your style as a designer?

LO: A neutral palette is my signature style because I prefer the textures and accessories to provide the special finishing touches while allowing color to be present in small doses and with pieces that are easily replaceable. My style philosophy is to layer materials and textures rather than filling the room with accessories because I find that the furniture, the cabinetry and the unique one of a kind details in the room are what make a modern, yet livable space with a wow factor that isn’t overwhelming to the eye. I love that you can really see this throughout the lake house in the photos I shared here.

TSG: What’s your business up to right now?

LO: Currently, I am working on a beautiful new construction home in the Blessings, a country club community in the heart of Fayetteville. We are creating moody, elevated spaces for a fun young couple with a keen eye for details. One of which is a 16-foot arched entry door with an incredible barrel ceiling detail created by a Manhattan Steel Door Co., also local to NWA.

TSG: What’s your biggest challenge personally and/or professionally?

LO: My greatest challenge during this time has been navigating around delays for materials, product and furnishing. With many of our factories shutting down due to Covid-19, this has by far been the most challenging to manage the scheduling of our projects. Luckily, our clients have been understanding as we are all traversing through this new territory together.

TSG: What’s bringing you joy right now?

LO: In lieu of the what is happening in the world, I am beyond grateful that our projects are thriving. With people spending time at home now more than ever, the influx of business has been wonderful. Clients are excited to improve their spaces and embrace our new normal. We have expanded into new regions and heading to the West Coast for our next adventure!

Laura can be reached by phone at 479.387.1800 or by email at [email protected]. Contact her to schedule a consultation to talk about those remodel dreams you’ve been having, or the dream lake house she just inspired you to build!

Photos: Laura Ozturk Interiors

RED, WHITE, BLUE (AND YOU!)

The Fourth of July is filled to the brim with family gatherings, good food, stars & stripes, and bursts of fireworks! Summer is officially here (and so are the sizzling temperatures) so we’ve rounded up versions of our favorite red, white, blue (and you!) looks and loves to celebrate Americana and summertime! 

RIFFRAFF

Nothing says summer more than red and white gingham from Riffraff! We love the tie-front and feminine ruffle detail along the neckline and bottom of the Marlee top paired with the full coverage, mid-rise Chelsea swim bottom for a fun summer look (style tip: to add some blue, the top looks super cute on its own worn with high waisted denim!). This look can take you from the lake to a picnic lunch!

OZARK BEER CO.

Introducing Ozark Pilsner. . .summer’s companion in a can! Load your coolers, stock your fridges and light those backyard fires. . .available statewide this week and in the Ozark Beer Co. taproom in downtown Rogers, Arkansas. 

THE BLONDE KITCHEN

I scream, you scream, we all scream for this 4th of July Ice Cream Sunday Toppings Board created by The Blonde Kitchen. DM to order!

HUGO’S

It wouldn’t be officially summer unless you’ve had a sizzling jalapeño cheeseburger and your favorite cold craft beer from Hugo’s. Order a six-pack of both for carry out/curbside pickup or grab a seat inside and cool down with socially distanced dine in service – Hugo’s is located on Block Avenue just off the Historic Fayetteville Square.

IN MOTION

Sparks will fly with this red hot, all-American look from In Motion. You can shop In Motion online, in store or with curbside pickup all summer long.

ALEXANDER BAKING CO.

Did someone say Mini Ice Cream Cakes? Satisfy your sweet tooth by preordering Fourth of July inspired sweets from downtown Rogers’ Alexander Baking Co. Select from cakes, decorated sugar cookies and our favorite – DIY cookie decorating kits.

FRESH HARVEST

When berry season hits, this tart Berry and Crème Tart is a must. Thanks to Fresh Harvest, this happens to be an EASY recipe that looks really difficult! And the final results are beautiful and will impress at any gathering – especially on the Fourth of July! 

SEMI-CHARMED WIFE

Sparks will fly when you wear these beautiful vintage Chanel button earrings reincarnated by jewelry artisan Donna Moll of locally-owned Semi-Charmed Wife. DM to order!

THE FARMER’S TABLE CAFE

A healthy seasonal summer salad that we can’t get enough of! Features locally-grown radishes, strawberries, blueberries, candy onion and leafy greens. You can order online as a curbside takeout option or be served on the outdoor patio at The Farmer’s Table Cafe.

SCOUTED: Father’s Day Favorites

Celebrate dad while supporting local with these unique finds for the father figure in your life. From curated gift boxes (for the adventurist, grill master, foodie and beyond) to locally-made small batch bourbon, we’re sharing some of our favorites that will make him smile! Remember to Shop Local!!

City Supply

Curated limited-quantity gift sets from the Father’s Day Collection. . .each one especially created for whether he loves the outdoors, appreciates a fine whiskey or is a sports enthusiast, City Supply has got dad covered!

Fox Trail Distillery

Crafted from a few hand selected deeply charred White Oak Barrels, aged 14 years, non-chill filtered and bottled at cask strength, O’Highlands XIV Straight Bourbon Whiskey (limited release!) is the product of Fox Trail’s journey as a local small-batch maker. There will never be another quite like it! Available only at the distillery retail store and The Bar at Fox Trail.

Blakeman’s Fine Jewelry

A timeless masterpiece: The Rolex GMT-Master II in white gold, 40mm case, Meteorite dial, Oyster bracelet. Its combination of peerless functionality, robustness and instantly recognizable aesthetics is especially appealing to the world traveller (we absolutely love the two-colour blue and red bidirectional rotatable 24-hour graduated bezel!).

American Estates

For the all-American dad: Built as a tribute intended to pay respect to our country and its symbols, the Old Glory American Flag wall art is true to the official standards of the American flag, maintaining proper ratios and sizing for all elements. Each flag is built with careful attention to detail and features the handsome character of hand-selected, rough-sawn white oak and cherry wood. These flags are sealed with a 0% VOC oil and wax finish and are truly made to be a lasting statement piece sure to spark conversation.  

Dandy Roll

Dandy Roll is here to help you pick out the perfect gift because they know shopping can be a little challenging right now. From gift box ideas for dad or creating your own customized gift box, gift bag, and card. Dandy Roll is offering free shipping, curbside pick up and local delivery.

Linden’s Jewelry 

Hand made sterling silver money clip with a place for engraving. The design is fashioned after a classic vintage Tiffany & Co. money clip. In stock in silver and can also be custom made in gold.

Walker Brothers

Filson fabulous! The coveted and classic Filson Original Briefcase is built with Filson’s signature rugged twill, an industrial-strength water-repellent fabric that resists wear and abrasion for years of dependable service. A gift that will last forever!

Honeycomb Kitchen Shop

HKS Father’s Day Cooking Collection includes all the top cooking and grilling essentials! We especially love this Finex 12" Cast Iron Grill Pan for dad! FINEX is a small team of Portland based craftspeople, cooks and designers dedicated to crafting cookware that will stand the test of time. All products are made in the USA and feature polished, easy-to-release cook surface, thicker castings to optimize searing techniques to seal in flavors, and ergonomic spring handles that temper heat for an easier grip while cooking.

Oli + Meg

Bikes, on the rocks! An 11oz old fashioned glass to pair perfectly with your favorite lowland or cocktail (cheers to Bentonville!). These sturdy glasses will surely be crowd pleasers.

David Adams Fine Jewelry

This Swiss Army Infantry Vintage Mechanical Chronograph is a comfortable-to-wear men’s wrist watch that offers its owner precise timekeeping. The dial is colored in white. The black leather strap provides great fit. Some of the features implemented in this analog timepiece are alarm, backlight or electro luminescent, date, multiple time zones, stopwatch, and timer.

The Dotted Pig

Whether your dad is Mr. Groomed (shown), Mr. Smooth, Mr. Perfect, Mr. Hipster or Mr. Manly, The Dotted Pig has you covered with this line of masculine grooming products. Discover the woody and citrus combination of Cedarwood and Lemongrass fragrances – great gift for a masculine man, a large 200g Triple Milled bar ensures high-quality and lasting fragrance.

Mertins Eye & Optical

For the dad who says he wants nothing but deserves the world, KREWE sunglasses from Mertins Eye & Optical make the perfect gift. Call for an appointment to shop safely or for curbside pickup: 479-442-8400.

By Request for Men

We are all getting used to this new “normal," so make your Father’s Day gift something he can use everyday! Pair these Tommy Bahama, soft cotton, machine washable shorts with a 100% cotton – Made in the USA – Coastal Cotton pocket tee, and he will be relaxing in style.

Markham & Fitz

Just add bourbon (or your spirit of choice)! Markham & Fitz has put together an infusion kit for dad to make his own chocolate bourbon (or other cacao-alcohol infusion of choice) at home! This gift provides (1) quart-size jar for steeping, (1) 8 oz bag of our freshly roasted Nicaraguan cacao nibs, and (1) handmade ceramic low ball glass to enjoy your chocolate bourbon or homemade cocktail (also includes a special recipe card with instructions).

Cheers at the OPO

The ultimate gift: a Father’s Day Brunch experience at Cheers at the OPO! Make reservations (9am–3pm) for dad and the entire fam for Dad’s Day Sunday Brunch, June 21st (insider tip: order the crab cakes, above, and request an outdoor patio table!).

James + James

This customizable Steel and Wood Corner Desk from James+James would make a great gift for Dad! It’s built by hand at their newly located wood-shop and showroom in Downtown Springdale. The L-Shaped Desk features two shelves, a solid hardwood top with all knots filled in for a smooth surface, and brushed steel bases.

Fayettechill

Has dad ever told you to ‘put a lid on it’? Well, here’s your chance to do it right back! The Hoff at Fayettechill is a palm fiber hat with hand-stitched yarn on the sides and a subtle felt-backed patch for a style to take from the river to the farmer's market.

KT Produce

The Fresh Box from KT Produce is a great way to put together a great grilling experience for dad! Pick a protein or two and season or marinate it along with the veggies. Call by 1:00 and you can pick up your box same day or get next day delivery!

Big Box Karaoke

DADS LIKE TO KARAOKE TOO! Book a Karaoke Room with your dad and let him get down with his bad self this weekend. Maybe the only gift he needs is time with the mic to belt out all the tunes he wants. BBK has 70,000+ songs, so we're sure he can find something to sing.

Alexander Baking Co.

If your dad’s your sweetheart then this is the gift of gifts: preorder Father’s Day Cookie Sets that include 2 regular size decorated sugar cookies (approx. 3.5″ -4″) in a giftable box. Insider tip: you can also preorder Mini Ice Cream Cakes!

Up Close & Personal with Interior Designer Lee Anne Stelte from Whiteline Designs

Lee Anne Stelte from Whiteline Designs was born in California, is half Hawaiian but considers herself a Northwest Arkansan. She’s been living here for 25 years, working as an artist and designer in the Fayetteville and Bentonville metropolitan areas. With Whiteline Designs, she designs residential new construction homes and renovations, commercial, and hospitality projects and so much more using her unique artist’s eye and ability to understand exactly what her clients want. Lee Anne also curates key design elements such as original art, unique accessories and specialty lighting available to order on her e-commerce site Whiteline Home Collection.

THE SCOUT GUIDE: What’s your career path?

LEE ANNE STELTE: Well I would not say it was a straight path, definitely more of a meandering path. I started a wholesale company after working as a graphic artist at age 23, then I began painting wood products that were in such demand at the time that I found myself on the QVC! But when my products started being copied by major companies and made in China, I knew I needed to do something new. I started painting murals. I was being hired to paint giant murals in huge homes in the tonier neighborhoods of Northwest Arkansas. As I developed relationships with developers and homeowners, I began providing design advice and quickly realized I had something. That’s when my design business was born!

TSG: Can you remember the very first time you realized your passion for design?

LAS: When I was in fourth grade, my teacher asked the class to take out a large piece of paper and fold it in half to create a folder for our math work. I don’t care about math and never did, but I still remember creating that folder. Everything was fresh and blank, and I set to work with my colored pencils drawing a pattern of geometric shapes in different shades of blue. I loved that folder so much. And then my teacher came by and praised my folder, and I remember having the best feeling. Getting noticed for designing something beautiful? I was hooked. My path lead me to college where I studied graphic arts/design.

TSG: Where did the name of your business come from?

LAS: At the time, I couldn’t think of a name, but I knew I wanted to represent something clean...clean lines and I wanted the word white. One day, on a long road trip driving back from Texas, I kept following this long white line for hours and hours, as it guided me back to Arkansas. After staring at the line for so long, it came to me—Whiteline Designs!

TSG: Is there a higher purpose you serve through your passion and business?

LAS: It’s true that most of my clients wind up crying at one point during our work together. They cry because they are moving into a dream house, or leaving a dream house, or for any number of reasons. Change is hard. I really feel like I’m a bit of a therapist when I work with my residential clients. To redesign a house or build a new house is a huge undertaking, and I’m just there to make that process go smoother. It’s an honor that my clients entrust me with that. We almost always become friends and the work really is a labor of love.

It’s funny because sometimes my clients need me to really take the reins on a design project, but other times they have it all picked out but what they need from me is validation and, of course, execution. I can enhance their vision, but their instinct and their own eye is wonderful. I like to think of it like I take people’s dreams and bring them to life. If it weren’t for other people’s dreams, I wouldn’t have a job.

TSG: What is a little known fact about you and/or your business?

LAS: One thing I don’t talk about too much because I spend so much time designing these gorgeous luxury homes is that I actually live in a small quaint cottage! Years ago, I lived in a southern style plantation home on an estate like setting with my former husband, and we even rented it out as a wedding venue at times. But now I’ve downsized to a tiny cottage and I find it to be very refreshing.

TSG: What’s the best design advice you have for us?

LAS: It’s ok to have a negative space. You don’t have to feel like you need to fill every single surface and corner in your home. I also have a thing about lighting. I tell all of my clients they need to put all their lighting on dimmers so they can control the ambience.There’s nothing like dimming those lights for a family dinner, just like when you’re in a perfectly lit restaurant and the lights go down.

TSG: What are some of your favorite ways to live locally here in NWA? Favorite places to be outside, eat, play and shop?

LAS: Now that I’m a new empty nester and living in a small place in Bentonville just walking distance from the square, I’m having a lot of fun exploring the city in my down time. I moved here for the arts community and Crystal Bridges. Honestly, I barely do anything outside of the square. My go-to place for meeting clients is Blake St. House or Pressroom in Bentonville. I ride my bike everywhere, including the market. Since I’ve moved here, I’ve stopped going to big supermarkets. And I love the Walmart Neighborhood Market on the square. (I know it’s not a small business, but it is local!) It has more than what you’d think, like really good olives, wine and sparkling water.

photos: Meredith Mashburn Photography