Shopping & Services

Lingering in Lubbock? Passing through Plano? Traveling through Tulsa? Those are just a few destinations where you can find Josey Records, the Dallas-based record store that has quietly expanded to five additional locations in Texas, Oklahoma, Missouri and Kansas over the last decade. Growing a company's footprint often brings with it brand dilution and a diminishment of the original's spark, but not so for Josey Records. In addition to opening its outposts, the mothership (all 25,000 square feet of it) has maintained its mix of in-store events, unique releases and stewardship of the legacy of Dallas institution Bill's Records.

Most recently in Garland and Little Elm, small entrepreneurs who thought they were operating legal CBD and cannabis businesses under the state’s hemp laws have found their goods seized, their businesses shuttered and themselves threatened with prison time by law enforcement agencies following a different playbook.

Daryoush Austin Zamhariri, founder of the Texas Cannabis Collective, wants to change that. The first step is to educate.

“What used to be considered marijuana is not necessarily marijuana now,” Zamhariri says. “… The narrative is changing, and it’s changing radically, and it’s changing faster than most people like to admit, and people are having a hard time understanding.”

In 2015, he visited Colorado, where he was impressed by that state’s legal recreational marijuana program. He returned to Texas in 2016 and founded the Texas Cannabis Collective. The original goals were to increase understanding of cannabis’ potential health benefits, bring clarity to the law and advocate for full legalization.

“I fell in love with the scene in Colorado and thought, ‘How hard can it be to legalize in Texas?’” Zamhariri says.

Very damn hard, it turns out, in a state that doesn’t allow for voter initiatives to change state law and with a hardline conservative Senate. While the collective’s website, txcannaco.com, remains a go-to site for news about cannabis in Texas, its activism have grown substantially. “In 2022 we really dove in headfirst,” Zamhariri says. “We joined forces with several local organizations that were trying to decriminalize at a local level.”

Volunteers collected petition signatures to support successful city-level initiatives to decriminalize marijuana in Denton, San Marcos and Killeen and today are providing support to similar efforts in College Station and Lubbock.

While Texas’ 2019 hemp law legalized CBD products and the growing of hemp — cannabis that contains no more than 0.3% percent delta 9 THC — legislators provided little or no funding to support and educate law enforcement about the new laws, leaving dispensary operators to the mercy and understanding of local police.

“There’s no education behind what hemp is, what marijuana is, from the state level,” he says. “It’s really incumbent on each county. … I’m getting concerned to the point that the state doesn’t know what state law is.”

Texas Cannabis Collective wants to use its influence to change that, town by town, county by county and, if necessary, lawmaker by lawmaker. The effort seems to be paying off, with a solid majority of Texans supporting liberalized cannabis laws. Education is winning, Zamhariri says. “It’s a wall that’s slowly crumbling down.”

This one-stop shop has everything conscious consumers in Dallas could ask for in a gas station. Along with regular unleaded gas there's also diesel fuel blended with biodiesel and B100 biodiesel. The best part? The snacks. Green Spot offers kombucha on tap as well as yogurt, coffee, smoothie and juice bars. Fountain drinks are made with real cane sugar, and the café offers organic, locally sourced, preservative-free food. With its plentiful gluten-free and vegan options (including alcohol), a stop at Green Spot is a great idea.

The North Dallas Antique Mall is a trove of treasures, packing 12,500 square feet with everything from colored-glass globe lights, figurines, games and cards of every kind, milk glass dish sets, folk art from around the world, mid-century modern chairs and starburst glassware, to European furniture and antique lamps. Each vendor has a little slice of the store with their own wares on display. The former movie theater bursts with color and fun finds. With three floors with movie and pop art collectibles upstairs, a hefty selection of vinyl and art in the basement, and everything from tchotchkes to high-end collectibles on the main floor, it's a no-pressure wonderland perfect for finding that sentimental piece to call your own.

We have all done it, but no one feels great having to shop for intimates in a store with neon signs and headless mannequins in the window. For a slightly more upscale shopping trip, we love Trousseau of Dallas — House of Lingerie. The petite boutique offers professional fittings and a concierge service to help you find the perfect fit. If you're looking for a gift, the shop can help you find that special something in person or by phone.

This novelty shop in Lakewood is full of nostalgic gifts including toys, books, costumes and more. Froggies 5 & 10 has been in business for more than 25 years and remains a favorite for North Texans looking for new and retro toys. You don't need the excuse of being a parent to walk in here because there are fun gag gifts for all ages. You can unleash your inner child as you browse the selection of games, magic tricks, joke books, stuffed animals and puzzles.

This Lake Highlands gem is perfect for a little self-love after work. It's open later than most spas, until 9:30 p.m. daily, so you don't have to fight weekend crowds or try to cram in a relaxing moment on your lunch break. It offers classics including Swedish and hot stone massages as well as cupping therapy and something the website refers to as a "walk the back massage." Prices are lower than average without jeopardizing the quality of the service.

Not all photographers promote inclusivity the way East Dallas' Kelly Sutton does. Sadly, North Texas is riddled with conservative photographers who won't shoot LGBTQ+ families, and Sutton has made it her mission to serve any person regardless of their sexual orientation, race, religion or background. Her work has been featured in local and national publications, including Architectural Digest, Rolling Stone and Billboard. Her impressive portfolio also boasts a Grammy-winning album cover and work for big-name clients such as HGTV and Pottery Barn. This year, Sutton is donating a portion of the profits from her family sessions to organizations working to end gun violence in America.

Do you dream of beating your ex with a bat, but don't want to get arrested? ABC Party has your back. The party superstore in Oak Cliff makes custom piñatas easier than ever. Simply send in a photo of your worst enemy and ABC will make the papier-mâché version come to life. According to management, the store is proud to have never turned down an idea, no matter how big or small. Of course, you can always opt for one of their fan-favorite piñatas, which include political figures like Donald Trump or "fiesta-themed" options such as beer, liquor, taco, donkey and sombrero-shaped designs.

Founded in 1946, this atypical architectural salvage yard is proud to offer the public all types of unique DIY treasures. Here you can find everything from antique lumber and doors to funky light fixtures, flooring and fencing. Next time you're poking around Pinterest and thinking of renovating the guest bathroom a 10th time, skip the Sunday lines at Home Depot and spend your day exploring this local institution instead. We (and every other handyman and interior designer in town) love Orr-Reed because the company takes pride in preserving the architectural heritage of Dallas and recognizes the benefits of upcycling salvaged materials.

There are numerous benefits to filling your backyard with native Texas plants, which is why we love Redenta's dedication to selling them. Founded in 1992 by Ruth Kinler, Redenta's is committed to sustainable and organic gardening. It also hosts informative workshops and sells a variety of succulents and cool containers at the "potting bar." The knowledgeable and friendly staff are always around to help you choose the perfect gift or plan your own edible garden. Redenta's variety of perennials, herbs, hard-to-find annuals, shrubs and trees makes it the best garden center around.

Located in the Design District, Neighborhood is the coolest spot for finding mod furniture and other chic home décor from dozens of local and national artists. Carefully curated artisanal goods such as Oaxacan ceramics and textiles, candles, incense, books and lamps are all for sale online and in the showroom. The featured furniture brand, Gus Modern, uses high-quality materials and offers creative and contemporary designs. You can find everything from bar carts and media stands to larger pieces like sofas and beds. Neighborhood also occasionally hosts swanky art openings in its gallery space.

Step back in time when you enter either of Lucky Dog Books' two locations in East Dallas and Oak Cliff. The shop originally opened in downtown Mesquite in 1974, and while it has preserved its nostalgic vibe throughout the years, this beloved shop has also evolved to offer a variety of different services and community events. Grab a snack and browse books of every genre and language as well as magazines, audiobooks, comics and sheet music. Lucky Dog even partners with local musicians to host guitar and songwriting classes. Next time you're there, ask about the trade-in policy, which allows you to exchange eligible items for an in-store discount.

Owner Terri Thoman has been in the business for more than 40 years, and her shop near Deep Ellum is more than just a place to find paper goods from all over the world. Visitors can see artistic demonstrations (like origami) and participate in workshops at this artisan, nontoxic printmaking studio. From party-planning parents to scrapbooking queens and kings, this spot has a little something for everyone looking for the kind of high-quality artisanal materials you won't find at Hobby Lobby or Michaels.

If you need a lil' something for your BFF's birthday, your work wife's shower or just a pressie for some woman you don't know that well, Lone Chimney has got you. With a location in the Farmers Market plus a flagship in Richardson, this shop has the best selection of last-minute gifts and an array of charming cards to go with them. Dangling earrings, stylish sunnies, scented candles and cutely potted cacti fill the shelves, assuring your present will fit any friend's aesthetic at a price that can't be beat.

At a time when Texas lawmakers have ramped up voting restrictions, this organization is diligently working behind the scenes to help cart Democratic voters to the polls. Dallas' Rideshare2Vote started in 2018 with a mission to boost turnout for registered but nonvoting liberals. Since then, the organization has expanded its reach to several other states, and its drivers — who are trained in local voting laws — can help out in any of Texas' 254 counties. Next time you need a lift to the ballot box, just give these superheroes of democracy a call.

Got the itch to take a summer road trip but don't feel like sitting on the highway for four (or more) hours? The Texican Court Hotel in Irving delivers a laid-back Austin/Marfa vibe less than an hour on the road from central Dallas. With laid-back décor, a huge pool, lawn games and live music on the weekends (plus some pretty decent Tex-Mex at the Two Mules Cantina), an overnight can make you feel like you're glamping in West Texas. It's also down the road from the Toyota Music Factory and Alamo Drafthouse, making it a great staycation option for live music lovers and film buffs.

Dallas' Interabang Books is all about supporting visionary authors. The independent bookstore boasts a fabulous selection, but arguably more exciting than finding your next page-turner is attending one of Interabang's author events. From book signings and discussions to storytime for kids, Interabang's calendar is consistently packed. Next time you're tempted to buy a book on Amazon, stop what you're doing. Get in the car and drive to Interabang instead; you'll probably catch an engrossing author talk while you're at it.

Having trouble finding a hairstylist who will hand-paint a psychedelic design onto your shaved head? Look no further than Abby Bagby. The folks at Bagby are true artists; they specialize in genderless haircuts and vivid hair color. Put the Manic Panic down. You are not qualified, and you will regret your poor choice when you wake up with blue dye all over your bed sheets. There is no one you can trust more to help you experiment with your hair, so just let them work their magic. If you're maybe not so adventurous, don't be deterred. Bagby does everything: blond, brunette, long layers, bobs, whatever you want. All we ask is please, for the love of God, don't go in there after you just box-dyed your hair black expecting to go platinum. That's every hair stylist's worst nightmare. See her work at @abbybagbyhair.

We don't get many fashion designers like Taylor in Dallas. Self-described as dark and dreamy (and she's right), Taylor pours every bit of herself into her ethereal collections. She has a unique and bold aesthetic that perfectly captures her spirit and depth. Her most recent showcase was provocative and unconventional; if you missed it, you really missed out, but you can always look at the highlights on her Instagram. Maybe next time you'll remember to put it on your calendar. She was recently nominated for the 2023 FGI Rising Star Award in Fashion Design. She's going places, but let's hope she doesn't leave Dallas any time soon because then we would all be a little less cool.

Flower arrangements can often be boring and ugly. No one of taste wants to buy a bouquet that could double as a funeral arrangement. Luckily, Miranda Zee is here to save us from the mundane. If you want to impress or maybe just want to have something beautiful to look at for yourself, check out what she's offering. This independent florist has a unique and modern style: whimsical, feminine and exciting. She makes floral arrangements into temporal art. You can contact her via Instagram, and make sure you follow her as well because she often does pop-ups around Dallas. For any straight man reading this, get your girlfriend one of Zee's arrangements and stop picking out the browning roses from Kroger with the clear plastic wrapping, please.

If you make it past the vast library of comics and shelves of collectibles, zines and merch, then venture to the back of the record section, you'll find the most diverse and well-stocked Japanese record selection in the city. A passion project of owner Megan Daniel, the hundreds of LPs collected here cover a dizzying array of genres and subgenres: everything from Japanese new wave, hip-hop, classical, jazz, folk, punk and metal, to the minty environs of city pop and reissues of Japanese environmental music, a type of pastoral ambient that brings the soothing effects of forest bathing to your home stereo. You can even sip beer and cider while you browse.

If you're like us, by the time you're done with the work day all nail salons are closed and your French tips are longer than the Eiffel Tower. And the weekend mornings are just too packed with people like us who couldn't get there on time. That's why Nail Bloom is kind of a godsend. The salon is open until midnight Monday – Saturday and 6 p.m. on Sundays. But that's not the only reason it's incredible: The place has more pink than the Barbie movie, and more flowers than a field in Provence — they even hang from the ceiling. Manicures are a great pick-me-up any time, but it's truly impossible to be unhappy at a place like Nail Bloom.

Situated within the extensive ecosystem of Recycled's well-curated collection of books, records, CDs and video games lurks the finest population of horror and sci-fi novels in the region. Specializing in vintage paperbacks with exquisitely pulpy artwork, the shop's offerings live largely on the weirder fringes of both genres, but are replete with classics and contemporary works. If names like J.G. Ballard, Ursula Le Guin or Thomas M. Disch grab your attention, expect hours of giddy browsing. Thanks to the local college-town culture and discerning staff, the selection is constantly refreshed, so you're sure to find something new with each visit. Better yet, the prices are just a fraction of what you'd pay to snag similar gems from a collector on Instagram or eBay.

One of the worst stressors of exotic pet parenting is finding a knowledgeable vet you can trust when health complications arise. Your average vet down the road doesn't encounter snakes or birds very often, so they're not usually a comfortable option when you're worried your animal friend's in trouble. In this regard, Summertree is like one giant reassuring hug. The front office staff and care providers are charismatic, empathetic and thorough; you're never rushed out feeling unheard or underserved. And because they care for exotics daily, they've got the tools and know-how to get your pet back on the mend.

Imagine we're in a '90s NBC sitcom: Infusion would be the random spot where you'd run into brothers Frasier and Niles Crane. It's not that there's anything snobbish about the store; it's just a must-visit for those who appreciate fine cooking oils. Owner Michelle Spangler opened Infused Oils and Vinergar four years ago after leaving a corporate job and going to culinary school. The gourmet shop imports oils and vinegars from Europe, Chile and California. Also here are pastas and other essentials to up your culinary game, along with cooking demonstrations, tastings and other events. According to Spangler, the shop is for amateur chefs as much as for those who can't cook at all, because great condiments can only make your food less terrible.

It was about time Deep Ellum had another vintage shop. The Japanese chain 2nd Street USA has long been all the rage in LA and New York. The Deep Ellum location of 2nd Street is a collector's paradise — from your dream Chanel lambskin bag, to anything Nike, this place has it. And it fits all shopper's budgets, from $5 tees to high-end streetwear items worth thousands of dollars.

We love Buc-ee's just as much as the next classy Texan, but there's no harm in visiting an upscale convenience store every once in a while. Foxtrot has a few locations in Dallas. Some of them include a café, all of them include fanciness. If your essential shopping includes expensive wine and a charcuterie board, well then, Mr. Big, stay off the Peloton and call up Foxtrot, which guarantees 30-minute delivery.

Not everyone can afford a $300 haircut, but that doesn't mean we should look like our hair was styled by a 3-year-old with a razor. Here's where the best of both worlds collide: The stylists at Divinas have high-end-salon skills and affordable prices. The Latin-woman-owned salon is in an Oak Cliff strip mall and has five employees who are mostly Spanish-speaking masters of the trade. The beauty shop also does lash extensions and basic facials. After seeing the way they cut our hair, we'd trust them with heart surgery.

While some people want their bodies covered in more tattoos than there are on Travis Barker's neck, others are trying to cover up any marks on their body. Illusions by Ink Studio can help by camouflaging whatever you want to blend into your skin. Owner Elena Sanchez is an expert in paramedical micropigmentation and an instructor in the art of camouflaging scars, stretch marks, discoloration and even scalp tattooing for hair loss. Sanchez also exhibits excellent bedside manner, transparency and professionalism. Even those afraid of needles will feel at ease in her studio.

Greta Gerwig could've saved herself half the movie budget: Dallas has its own Barbie house, and it's available for shoots. Owner Rachel Page has created a dream house — doused in pink and overrun with cute props — that screams (well, murmurs like Marilyn) Old-Hollywood glamour and dollhouse coziness. The space is a private residence in Arlington available to rent for the day or by the hour, so go live your pinkest Barbie or Elle Woods fantasies. If these walls could talk, they would simply purr.

D Magazine recently named Tailwaters Fly Fishing Co. as the Best Fly-Fishing Outfitter, but we go there for a different reason. The Design District shop, with its own backyard river bank, is where you go to look like a fashionable fisherman without ever grabbing a pole. The plentiful selection of vintage-inspired Howler Brothers pearl snap Western shirts with colorful embroidery is ideal for fun on the river or on dry land, and the shop's offerings of Simms moisture-wicking button-down shirts look sharp on a boat or in a boardroom. Of course, there are cool caps, pants and shorts to add to your purchase as well. This is the type of style that says, "I'll be in the meeting, but I'm not staying long. There's fun to be had."

When Tumbleweed TexStyles opened its flagship store in Frisco in 2020, it had already been the coolest T-shirt slinger in North Texas for several years. But instead of being able to catch the colorful Tex-centric merchant only at a local music festival or online, now you can visit their kitschy-chic shop and leisurely peruse. You've probably seen the must-have, officially licensed Whataburger designs or, perhaps, the shop's big-selling "Texas Chica" tee, crafted to recall the Topo Chico logo, but there's much more to be had. The shop's clever original designs with a vintage flair and a Lone Star State vibe beat the hell out of a graphic tee from Target.

You wouldn't know it by walking in there now, but Bloom's Candy and Soda Pop shop in downtown Carrollton started life as a flower shop. Its current owners purchased the place in 2008 and added candy to the floral offerings. In 2010, the candy and soda lines took over the space entirely. An epic array of vintage brands (Astro Pops and Banana Split Candy Chews, among many others), and straight-up crazy selections (candied crickets and brisket-flavored candy canes, anyone?) can be washed down with a frosty glass bottle of one of the dozens of hard-to-find root beers, ginger ales or flavored cream sodas from the store's coolers. The vintage toy and knickknack collection lining the tops of the candy shelves is worth its own moment of attention if you can pull yourself away from the sweets.

With several locations in Dallas and across North Texas, you won't have to go far to find a CBD American Shaman. With a focus on health and wellness, the place sports some of the best selection of CBD and hemp products and so much more. Don't know what you're looking for? One of the friendly staff at CBD American Shaman can always help find the products just right for you. Whether you want something that can get you high or something more therapeutic like CBD for you or your pet, this place has you covered.

You can find everything you need to get your smoke on at Smokin' Glassworks. The chain has been selling CBD since 2014 and has several storefronts in North Texas where the staff is chill and helpful. Inside, you'll see a range of products from CBD to hemp-derived THC, and a variety of bongs, pipes and bubblers to smoke it with. The store also has a wide range of edibles and tinctures, and accessories to go with your smokin' set up, like papers, grinders and rolling trays. The only thing that would make Smokin' Glassworks better is if they had a location in Dallas, but it's always worth the drive to the suburbs.

The Joule downtown carries itself more as an attraction than as a hotel in some key, eye-catching ways. Of course, there's the 30-foot fiberglass eyeball across the street, but inside, there's plenty to attract non-hotel guests as well. Perhaps chief among them is the one-two retail punch of the Taschen Library and the hotel shop. A cozy alcove packed with colorful coffee table books, the Taschen Library offers large, vibrant and sometimes edgy books filled with striking photography covering everything from modern art and sports to hip-hop and world travel. Across the way, the hotel shop goes beyond basic sundries to offer bottles of bubbly, flowery essential oils and special-edition Kate Weiser chocolates, inspired by the big eyeball.

If you're into mountain bikes, there are the well-known national chains (Sun & Ski Sports) and adored local chain (Bike Mart). Thankfully, a few independent shops have sprung up lately offering a range of bikes, components and gear while also providing personal, top-notch service and repairs. CFB Bike Shop in Farmers Branch, just north of LBJ Freeway, is the kind of place that's homey without feeling small, well-equipped without feeling like a warehouse. The employees there stay busy, but you don't feel like yet another burdensome number. And it's never a surprise to cross paths with a biker you might've just seen on one of the many North Texas off-road bike trails.

This homegrown Oak Cliff store has many mood boards, from vintage pieces to airy Boho and little black dresses and accessories. The shop supports independent fashion designers, all with an eye toward easy-to-wear, chill pieces. This is a boutique shop for those who both love and hate shopping (they'll style you if you're the latter). Brunch to couch? Sure. In the office with an air of casual indifference? That, too. Plus it's a cool space. Go ahead and treat yourself.

Candles by Carol, which has been going strong since 2000, is run by a three-person team, founder Carol, her son Ryan and Lydia. Hand-poured candles come in more than 10 categories (from Fabulously Fruity to Rugged Retreat), with lots of unique smells in each, such as Pomegranate Noir, Lemon Bergamot and Hawaiian Breeze, to name a few. The candles here have strong staying power and come in bright colors in glass containers. They also sell scent sprays, essential oils and tarts for all your good-smelling needs. You can find Candles by Carol at its storefront near Lake Ray Hubbard or the online store, which offers delivery and pickup.

Next time you're at the Farmers Market picking up a jar of local honey and some East Texas tomatoes, swing into Ruibal's. Sure, there are tons of plants for you to buy, but even better, you can build on that super natural vibe you're feeling by grabbing a full load of gardening books, soil, pottery, seeds and garden-intensive home décor. Don't want to do the dirty work yourself? They'll pick up your pots from home and handle the planting at their place, so you can reap the verdant rewards when the blooming begins.

The Movement Loft offers a variety of classes with an approach to fitness that covers the mind, body and soul. The Movement Loft opened in 2020 with the aim of creating a fun, comfortable and body-positive space to build a community while working out. The studio persevered through the COVID-19 pandemic and is still going strong. The Movement Loft offers yoga (classes and private sessions), dance and meditation classes. Every class and service is designed to be inclusive of all types and experience levels. A woman-, minority-owned business, The Movement Loft is recognized by the Safe Space Alliance as a safe space for LGBTQIA+ individuals.

The mission of the Art Room is to "encourage healing and recovery through expressive art experiences." This nonprofit art studio in Denton is a place where people dealing with mental health issues can engage in the creative process and create art. The Art Room provides the studio, materials and support from both mental health care professionals and artists. In addition to open studio times, there are also designated projects on certain days, like Therapeutic Thursdays and special classes.

This dance studio on Greenville Avenue is a welcoming community of instructors and dancers: some passing through to get ready for an upcoming wedding and others learning swing (Lindy hop and Balboa) or ballroom dancing at any level. In October the Thriller class culminates in a Deep Ellum flash mob on Halloween. No matter which scene in Flashdance captivates you, this is a great place to get started.

Whether or not you believe Dallas' dating scene is a veritable dumpster fire, the city's singles still need solid places to find out if their latest Bumble, Hinge or Tinder date is what they're looking for. Might we suggest The Wild Detectives in Oak Cliff? The combination bar and bookstore has a great indie vibe, solid crafted cocktails and plenty of coffee drinks if your date doesn't imbibe. With the patio out back and plenty of cozy tables inside, it's a great place to get to know someone. Check the calendar for schedules of readings and plays that are a unique way to extend a date that's going well or pass the time if, god forbid, you get stood up.

We don't know who it was, but somewhere in the recent history of shoemaking, we'd like to think there was a genius working at a cobbler's bench who asked: "Hey, why can't shoes be both stylish, durable and comfortable?" That person was probably European, but whoever created the concept of stylish comfort footwear deserves at least a Nobel Prize. Back in Texas, we figure a nice statue or wall plaque should go to the founders of E.G. Geller Shoes, which first opened a Mephisto concept store in North Dallas in 1992 then traveled to Europe checking out lines from other makers of shoes that are fit for the office but feel like a pair of sneakers on your tootsies. The store is still family-owned and has just relocated from its long-time home at Preston and Northwest Highway to Snider Plaza. Mephisto is just one of around 40 brands offered, including wares from makers such as Naot, Birkenstock, Kiwi and others in styles for men and women — all designed with an emphasis on comfort and looks.

At many local apartment buildings, the word "efficiency" is a polite way to say "cell-like." That's not so at Dallas Urby, the 27-story apartment tower that opened in the Design District last year. (Work is being completed on a second tower next door.) When its New Jersey-based developers say efficiency, they're talking about real efficiency with a helping of luxury. Careful, creative, cheerful design extracts the highest use from available space. Dallas Urby is the developers' first foray to a city outside the New Jersey/New York area, where natives know the value of interior space. Efficient luxury without pretentiousness is the goal, and they've met it nicely. Then there are the amenities: murals, a dog park, heated pool, knock-out views of downtown, a shared workspace/library with free wi-fi on the first floor and a gym as large as many freestanding workout spaces.

Looking for athleisure for both yoga and a bougie four-mimosa brunch? Headquartered in the Bishop Arts District, De Novo Active carries clothes, activewear and a variety of accessories from multiple designers. Its mission is to offer pieces that elevate high-performance activewear sets from "the barre to the bar." De Novo distinguishes itself from the big stores with unique patterns, colors and styles. Along with leggings, look for sweatshirts, outerwear, shoes, tanks and more. There's also a pet section that is adorable.

How many Facebook happy birthday greetings does it take to equal the emotional effect of one pretty card with a handwritten note, sealed in an envelope, stamped and delivered to your real, physical mailbox? For those who prefer the personal touch, there's Paper Source, with its colorful collection of cards, stationery, gift wrap, pens and assorted paper-adjacent products. Spending a few minutes wandering around Paper source is enough to make us want to write someone a letter, once we relearn cursive.

Marcel Market is a unique store that's part boutique, grocery, apothecary and more. Located in the Bishop Arts District, it brings exclusive French brands to the U.S., including multiple beauty and skin products. Food stuff ranges from savory to sweet, spreadable to drinkable, with a variety of French candies, pastries, sardines and other goods. There is some fun and bright Parisian apparel that would make for a mild day for Emily in Paris. Candles, perfumes, jewelry — basically a little something for everyone. Marcel even sells small surprise bags through their website ranging from $25 to $100.

Let's start with the good news for the addicts out there: Buff City Soap's fall line of scents for its hand-made, plant-based soaps, bath and shower bombs includes pumpkin spice. That's right, you can now sip your pumpkin-spice latte while pretending you're soaking in a vat of your favorite drink. Pumpkin spice not your bag? Sandalwood, coconut, eucalyptus and lemongrass are also among the variety of scents relaxing extracts to flavor its bars and gels, all made in-house. Classes and parties can book time with Buff City's stand-mixers to whip up their own concoctions.

With our long, hot, dry summers and clay soil, chances are someday you're going to walk into your home and find you're living in a lagoon, thanks to busted pipes under your shifted foundation. Based in Royse City, Zeus Restoration has techs ready 24/7 to help when disaster strikes, whether it's a water leak, mold, fire, hazardous materials, air-duct cleaning or storm damage repair. Zeus and its professionally certified team have worked in restoration and construction for more than 20 years, so they know their business. When the god of thunder strikes, it's only fair that you call on Zeus Restoration to repair the damage.

Madison Raney of Earth to Madison describes her work as "vibrant and edgy," which makes sense for a photographer who came up in concert photography. Though based in Dallas, she attracts clients from around the world and makes them feel like rock stars in front of her camera. Her concert experience gives her a special leg up in capturing candid moments, particularly the party shots at receptions. She generally attracts unconventional couples and has a portfolio full of themed weddings, ranging from a Halloween-themed Las Vegas blowout to a lush and moody ceremony inspired by Pride and Prejudice. Her website makes it clear, however, that there's no such thing as a boring shoot. With Raney behind the camera, that will always be true.