A Sparkling Night: Celebrating Outstanding Volunteers at the Richardson Real Heroes 2025 Awards
Dr. Mona Alnaeemi and Neil Stampe Honored at 15th Annual Celebration By Bonnie Kudlicki On Thursday, August 28, the Richardson Real Heroes 15th Annual Awards Celebration was a sold-out success at the Eisemann Center for Performing Arts. The event honored two exceptional recipients—Dr. Mona Alnaeemi and Neil Stampe—for their extraordinary commitment to volunteerism. Guests included the Richardson mayor, council members, city manager, and chief of police. The evening festivities, which included a celebration of prior real heroes, featured special guest, Texas-based singer, songwriter, and speaker Sara Hickman. Charles Eisemann presented each honoree with the coveted 2025 Annie Award for their outstanding volunteer work. Further cementing their impact, Congresswoman Julie Johnson bestowed each with a Congressional Commendation for their volunteer achievements. We are incredibly proud to celebrate the work of these two outstanding individuals who exemplify the spirit of community service in Richardson. Real Hero: Mona Alnaeemi, Ph.D. Mona and her family sought refuge from Kurdistan, north of Iraq, during the Saddam Hussein regime. Placed in Richardson upon arrival, they received help from a nonprofit group aiding refugees, which immediately compelled Mona to pay back by dedicating her life to volunteering. For 30 years, the impact of her selfless work has been life-changing for countless people in Richardson and beyond. With a Ph.D. in Human Services, Mona is now a Human Services Board Certified Practitioner and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor. She leverages her expertise to steer volunteer clients through myriad systems to find food, housing, school, counseling, English language instruction, and critical emotional support in a new city. Her ability to communicate in four languages allows her to connect with and serve a diverse population. Since 2010 at the Islamic Association of North Texas, she established a critical social service line, offering support to single mothers, widows, new refugees, and low-income families, helping them build sustainable, self-sufficient lives. Mona also co-founded the Dallas Institute for Immigrant Women in 2018 and serves actively with the Richardson Police Department and the Richardson Civil Board. Real Hero: Neil Stampe Neil retired at 49, but instead of resting, he committed to giving back. For 30 years and counting, he continues to contribute to the Richardson community in highly impactful ways. His volunteer ‘career’ began in 1995 when he joined the Richardson Rotary Club, holding many positions and aiding in a multitude of successful service projects. He was just sworn in as their 2025 treasurer. A proud graduate of Leadership Richardson’s Class 12 in 1996, Neil has kept that pride alive by acting as an advisor, a ‘rock’ (mentor), and curriculum chair for 11 subsequent classes, remaining an active member of the Alumni Association. In 2003, Neil added the Network of Community Ministries Handyman (part of Seniors’ Net) to his volunteer tool belt, doing no-cost home and safety repairs for seniors and the disabled. He later joined the Network’s Board of Directors, successfully assisting their growth through a $6.3 million fundraising campaign that secured their current headquarters. He was also a co-founder of a similar program, First Richardson Helpers, at First Methodist Richardson Church in 2016. Support Richardson Volunteerism Read Mona and Neil’s full biography, see their videos, and view awards celebration photos by visiting richardsonrealheroes.com. While there, please consider donating to the only city-wide program dedicated to volunteerism. RRH is an all-volunteer nonprofit 501(C)(3) that relies on donors to fund its program.
Emerson Cox Renfro: Cultivating Community and Sustainability Through Compost in Richardson
The Compost Corner: Turning Scraps into a Movement By Patti Otte When Richardson resident Emerson Cox Renfro founded The Compost Corner in May 2023, she set out to turn everyday kitchen scraps into a movement. What began as a personal homesteading hobby has blossomed into a vibrant local business dedicated to teaching others the art—and joy—of composting right here in the community. What is Composting? Composting is the natural process of recycling organic waste—like food scraps, coffee grounds, and yard trimmings—into a nutrient-rich soil mixture called compost. Microorganisms, worms, and beneficial fungi break down these materials over time, creating a dark, crumbly substance that: Improves soil health Retains moisture Reduces the need for chemical fertilizers Drawing on her background in hospitality management and more than a decade in the restaurant industry, Renfro combines creativity, passion, and a keen eye for detail to educate clients about the many benefits of sustainable living. Education, Entrepreneurship, and Organic Treasures Through speaking engagements, classes, vendor booths, and now book signings for her debut children’s book Mama’s Mulch, Renfro shares practical how-to tips and inspires families to reduce waste and nurture their own gardens. Her Instagram feed is filled with videos on the fine art of composting, making the process seem simple and approachable. The Compost Corner is more than just a compost supplier. Renfro offers: Fresh compost, tools, and supplies online. Charming merchandise. A variety of organic goods at festivals and farmers markets, including seasonal canned goods, eggs, and sourdough starter kits, straight from her Richardson backyard homestead. Renfro has coined two playful yet powerful mottos that reflect her commitment to the environment: “Waste Not, Love Rot” and “Make Compost Great Again!” These guiding principles emphasize her belief that small, sustainable habits can make a big difference, keeping valuable nutrients out of landfills and returning them to the earth. A Business Built on Community Roots A Dallas native, Renfro and her family settled in Richardson’s Canyon Creek neighborhood in 2021, transforming their home into a flourishing homestead. After the birth of her daughter Joy, she sought a way to blend entrepreneurship with full-time motherhood. Introducing backyard chickens led naturally to composting—and eventually to a thriving enterprise. For Renfro, the key to growing a business is simple but profound: networking. “Word of mouth goes a long way,” she says. “Start conversations about your passions and build relationships—you never know what doors will open.” The Compost Corner is proudly a one-woman operation, embodying Emerson’s dedication to sustainability and community education. To learn more, visit thecompostcorner.com or follow @thecompostcorner on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
2026 Interior Design Trends: Creating Refined, Personal, and Enduring Homes
By Elizabeth Ryan At Elizabeth Ryan Interiors, we believe great design isn’t about chasing what’s “in” this week—it’s about creating homes that feel as refined, functional, and deeply personal as the lives lived within them. That’s why when we talk about 2026 design trends, we’re not pointing you toward anything gimmicky or short-lived. Instead, we’re sharing the shifts we see shaping how stylish homeowners will live beautifully (and comfortably) in the year ahead. These aren’t just looks—they’re intentional design choices that balance elegance with ease. The most exciting shifts as we look toward 2026 center around warm color collections, intentional patterns, bespoke details, and a casual approach to layering it all. Thoughtful, Yet Casual Layering The perfectly staged look? It’s officially on sabbatical. In its place: a layered, collected, and unapologetically personal aesthetic. The most compelling homes in 2026 will feel lived-in, not overly styled. Designers are leaning into visual tension—old with new, high with low. The result is more than just beautiful; it’s emotionally resonant. These spaces tell stories. Yours. “The design world is ready for a little coziness and whimsy.” – Suzanne Casey, Designer at ERI “We’re contrasting these romantic details with modern elements like natural stone and sculptural lighting, having fun blending traditional and contemporary,” states Suzanne Casey, a designer at ERI. The next time you see a sign for an estate sale, we suggest stopping in to see if there is something unique that speaks to you. That is how you know it will be the perfect unexpected object to layer in. Elevated Color Stories The neutral palette isn’t going anywhere—but as we look toward 2026, it’s getting a grown-up upgrade. Soft taupes and warm creams are being joined by a richer cast of characters: oxblood, slate green, tobacco, and that blue that is almost black. These aren’t colors that shout. They suggest. Whisper, even. Think color palettes that feel as curated as your wine collection and as comforting as your favorite cashmere wrap. We’re seeing fewer “pops” and more purposeful color layering, in which hues melt into one another rather than compete for attention. The overall effect? Confident, moody, and deeply livable. Pattern, Detail, and the Art of the Finish Another quiet but powerful shift we’re seeing: pattern and detail returning to the spotlight. Upholstery is stepping out of its solid-colored comfort zone with tailored prints and sophisticated florals that feel fresh, not fussy. Drapery is getting smarter, too—not just framing a window, but adding character through trims, pleats, and unexpected fabric pairings. Even the smallest details—countertop edging and cabinet hardware—are becoming opportunities for design expression. These aren’t embellishments for the sake of it; they’re thoughtful touches that elevate the everyday. The kind of details that make a room feel complete, even if no one can quite put their finger on why they matter. Our homes are our havens, and we all want spaces that feel perfect for us. Much like fashion, we may all have our personal style, but we are also intrigued about the new ideas out there. Try a few of these on and see if they are a good fit as you look toward a stylish 2026! “Small luxuries are often found in the details you didn’t know you needed—but can’t imagine living without.” – Elizabeth Ryan
The B House Richardson: A Home Built on Love, Hope, and a Model for Adult Disability Housing in Texas
Creating Possibilities: Jill Burt, Ross Sivertsen, and the Power of Companion Care By Patti Otte Every home tells a story, but some homes do more—they create possibilities. Richardson residents Jill Burt and Ross Sivertsen have created such a place: the B House, a loving and structured home for their adult son Britton and two other young men with intellectual disabilities. Their mission has become their life’s work—establishing a sustainable and dignified model for adult disability housing in Texas. A Commitment Forged in Community Jill and Ross are deeply rooted in the Richardson community. Both are graduates of Leadership Richardson and alumni of RISD schools (Spring Valley Elementary, Northwood Junior High, and RHS). They not only share their lives but also run a business together, Canyon Creek Enterprises, celebrating their 25th wedding anniversary this past April. Their shared experience parenting adult sons with lifelong neurodivergence—Jill’s son Britton (31) has autism, and Ross’s son Philip (34) has autism and Down syndrome—has become their central focus. Recognizing the four crucial phases of parenting a neurodivergent child (diagnosis, service search, post-high school transition, and the legacy years), they sought to create a durable solution for the future. The B House Companion Care Model This vision led to the purchase of the B House in 2011, named after the young men who originally lived there. Located in Canyon Creek, the home serves as an innovative companion care model for Britton and two peers. Unlike typical group homes, the B House relies on a single live-in caregiver, ensuring consistency while actively promoting independence. The residents are not just housed; they are deeply integrated into the neighborhood: Community Involvement: They participate in the Canyon Creek Fourth of July parade and National Night Out. Life Skills: They share chores, follow house rules, and volunteer at organizations like Meals on Wheels and Feed My Starving Children. As Ross states, “Everything we do… is all done looking through the lens of what it means to the boys and families of people with disabilities. It really is all about Community and Inclusion.” Addressing the Broader Challenge of Supportive Housing The B House serves as a microcosm for a much larger need. As Jill explains, “As people with disabilities age, many face a real lack of supportive housing and care options.” The couple hopes their model sparks a broader conversation about creating more inclusive, sustainable, and affordable solutions for every adult with disabilities. The financial realities are immense. Lifelong care can span 50–70 years and requires extensive planning to bridge the gap left by limited Social Security and Medicaid waiver support. Through careful planning and unwavering commitment, Jill and Ross are actively educating and supporting other families, advocating for resources like the Take Me Home program through the Richardson Police Department. Through their work, Jill Burt and Ross Sivertsen have created an enduring legacy—a genuine home, a successful model, and a powerful voice for the disability community.
Boys & Girls Club of Richardson: A Safe Home Away from Home for Local Youth
Empowering Futures: The Mission of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Dallas (BGCD) By Patti Otte For more than 60 years, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Dallas (BGCD) has provided safe, inspiring spaces where young people ages 6 to 18 can learn, grow, and thrive. What began as a single club in West Dallas has expanded into a network serving over 3,600 youth across the Dallas Metroplex. BGCD’s programs are built upon three core pillars—Academic Success, Good Character & Citizenship, and Healthy Lifestyles—all designed to guide students toward successful, confident, and well-rounded futures. BGCD consistently delivers high-quality programs while remaining true to its mission: to inspire and enable all young people to realize their full potential. Richardson’s Growing Hub for Kids and Teens The Richardson Boys & Girls Club, located inside St. Barnabas Church at 1220 W. Belt Line Road, reflects BGCD’s commitment to meet the unique needs of its community. Nestled beside Richardson High School and West Junior High, the club serves a diverse mix of members from nearby apartment communities and within both Richardson ISD and Dallas city limits. Since moving to its current home in 2021, the Richardson site has experienced remarkable growth. Expanded Capacity: The club now serves up to 150 children and teens, a significant increase from its previous limit of 45 members. Accessibility: BGCD offers transportation via club vans to ensure all members have easy access to the facilities. New Leadership: Club Manager Frank Hallum, a BGCD veteran, brings strong leadership and enthusiasm, overseeing staff, curriculum, and facilities. After recent cosmetic renovations designed to attract teens, the club will host a re-grand opening on November 4, inviting the public to see its bright new spaces and expanded opportunities. Programs now include: eSports and STEM labs College prep initiatives Engaging activities for every grade level, from first grade through high school. The site also benefits from the guidance of an active volunteer advisory council led by board chair and former Richardson Police Assistant Police Chief Coby Pewitt, who advocates for funding and program enrichment. Community Traditions and Fundraising Success Community engagement is central to the success of the Richardson Boys & Girls Club. Two major fundraisers help fund scholarships and youth programs: The long-running Bob Nelson Annual Golf Tournament Classic (held each April). The beloved Richardson Gobble Hobble 5K & Family Fun Run (coming up this November). Celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2025, the Gobble Hobble has become a cherished holiday tradition, bringing families together the Saturday before Thanksgiving. The club’s vibrant culture is evident in success stories, such as that of Darian Chavis, a 2017 Richardson alumnus and Youth of the Year, who credited the club as a “home away from home” and leveraged his experience there into a job offer from State Farm—a powerful testament to the opportunities and mentorship the club fosters. How to Support and Get Involved Despite its successes, the Richardson club’s biggest challenge is visibility. It’s time for this hidden gem to step into the community spotlight. Expanded outreach will help more students benefit from academic support, mentoring, and enrichment programs. With additional financial sponsors, the club can: Expand transportation routes. Upgrade equipment. Continue enhancing its learning spaces. Volunteers are also essential—whether mentoring students, helping with reading programs, or simply showing up at special events, every hand helps. To learn more about the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Dallas in Richardson, visit their website at Home – Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Dallas, call 972-699-0514, or visit their Richardson location during the re-grand opening on November 4 at 5:30 pm.
Building Stronger Neighborhoods: The Vital Role of Neighborhood Associations in Richardson, TX
Why Richardson HOAs and Neighborhood Groups Are Essential for Community Life A neighborhood is more than just streets and houses—it’s a community where families put down roots, friendships are formed, and a strong sense of belonging grows. In Richardson, Texas, neighborhood associations play a vital, active role in preserving this quality of life and ensuring communities remain vibrant places to live. Information provided by the City of Richardson. Defining Your Neighborhood Association While many groups in Richardson refer to themselves as HOAs (Homeowners Associations), it’s important to understand the key distinction between a voluntary Neighborhood Association and a formal legal entity: Feature Neighborhood Association (NA) Homeowners Association (HOA) Membership Open to all residents (homeowners, renters, businesses, etc.); Optional Open to property owners within specific boundaries; Mandatory Dues Voluntary Mandatory and legally enforceable Authority No legal power to enforce maintenance or design standards Formal legal entity to enforce private deed restrictions and covenants Richardson’s Neighborhood Associations (NA model) are voluntary groups of residents and stakeholders who work together to maintain and improve the quality of life in their neighborhood. More than 75 associations exist to serve Richardson residents. Associations must typically have bylaws that require at least one annual general membership meeting and annual election of officers. Association position statements are reached through consensus. Unparalleled Engagement with the City of Richardson According to Lindsay Turman, City of Richardson Director of Community Services, Richardson’s neighborhood associations have an unparalleled level of engagement with the City. Monthly Collaboration: HOA presidents meet monthly to share updates and collaborate on community priorities. Neighborhood Workshops: The City hosts these workshops twice a year to provide education and resources directly to residents. This open, ongoing dialogue is unique; homeowners in Richardson actively seek opportunities to connect with City staff and leaders, making the municipality a model for strong civic partnership. Key Benefits of Active Neighborhood Involvement From annual celebrations like to seasonal gatherings, the enthusiasm of Richardson’s residents strengthens community life. Several core benefits arise from active involvement: Preserving Property Values: By maintaining shared spaces, enforcing neighborhood standards, and organizing beautification projects, NAs and HOAs help keep communities visually appealing and attractive to both current and future residents. Enhancing Community Connections: Associations serve as a social backbone, creating opportunities through block parties, holiday celebrations, and safety initiatives. These events build trust and belonging. Advocacy and Representation: An association acts as a unified voice for homeowners, ensuring that residents’ interests are represented and heard when addressing issues like traffic, infrastructure improvements, or neighborhood revitalization projects with the City of Richardson. Shared Amenities and Services: Many formal HOAs provide access to shared resources such as pools, parks, and community centers. Even for NAs, the collective maintenance of common areas adds significant value. A Collective Investment in the Future Ultimately, HOAs in Richardson are more than organizations; they are partnerships between neighbors and the City. By joining and participating, homeowners contribute not only to the care of their property but to the health and vitality of their entire community. This ensures that Richardson continues to be a city where neighborhoods thrive and everyone feels at home. How to Get Involved in Your Neighborhood Association Joining your HOA or Neighborhood Association is only the first step—participation is where the real impact is made. Here are a few practical ways homeowners in Richardson can get involved and support their community: Attend Meetings: HOA meetings are where important decisions are made. Regular attendance keeps you informed and gives you a voice in shaping your neighborhood’s future. Volunteer for Committees: Whether it’s organizing social events, overseeing landscaping, or working on safety initiatives, committees offer a chance to contribute your skills and interests. Run for a Board Position: Serving on the board gives you direct input into budgets, policies, and community priorities. Support Neighborhood Events: Simply showing up—whether it’s a holiday gathering, clean-up day, or community garage sale—helps strengthen the sense of togetherness. Spread the Word: Encourage neighbors to participate, share information, and help foster a culture of involvement. To find your local Neighborhood Association or for more City resources, please visit the official City of Richardson website at Richardson, TX | City of Richardson Home
Shaping the Future: Everything You Need to Know About the RISD Bond 2025 on the Ballot
A Comprehensive Guide to the Richardson ISD Bond Referendum (November 4, 2025) The Richardson Independent School District (RISD) Board of Trustees voted during the August 7, 2025, board meeting to place three separate bond propositions before voters in the upcoming November 4 election. This RISD Bond 2025 package, totaling $1.4 billion, is designed to address prioritized needs across facilities, safety, technology, and student instructional programs. What is a School Bond? Texas independent school districts issue bonds to pay for major capital expenditures, such as new construction, renovations, and large equipment purchases. How it Works: School district bonds are similar to a home mortgage. The district borrows money from investors and repays it over time using revenue generated from the district’s property taxes (specifically the Interest & Sinking or I&S rate). Total Amount: The total value of the three propositions in Bond 2025 is $1.4 billion. Proposition A: Facilities, Safety, CTE, and Middle School Transformation Proposition A is the largest component, addressing core facilities, security, and major academic infrastructure projects. Key Projects Included in Proposition A: Middle School Transformation Completion: This initiative will complete the conversion of the six remaining junior high campuses that were not part of Bond 2021 capital projects: Apollo Liberty North Parkhill West Westwood Note: This initiative aligns RISD with over 95% of Texas districts by permanently moving 6th grade students from elementary schools into middle schools, based on a 2020 study and community input. New Career and Technical Education (CTE) Center: Construction of a new facility to serve students from all four high schools. This center will: Expand access to specialized, hands-on programs. Prepare students for high-demand careers. Offer options to earn industry certifications. Renovation of the Environmental Studies Center: The center, which has served students for 50 years, will undergo significant updates due to its current condition and shifting into the floodplain. Planned improvements include: Modernized facilities. Improved accessibility. Expanded capacity for student learning. Proposition B: Technology Refresh In accordance with state law, technology devices must be presented as a separate proposition. Key Projects Included in Proposition B: Technology Refresh/Replacement: Funding for new devices for all staff and students (teachers, paraprofessionals, administrators, and students). Student Connectivity: Provision of WiFi hotspots to support digital learning access for students outside of school. Proposition C: Stadium Upgrades and ADA Compliance Proposition C focuses on stadium infrastructure, which state law requires to be presented separately due to high occupancy. Total Value: $7,400,000 Affected Facilities: Upgrades for the district’s two largest stadiums: Eagle/Mustang and Wildcat/Ram. Planned Projects: ADA Seating Upgrades: To comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act requirements. LED Lighting Replacement. Turf Replacement. Understanding the Tax Impact of RISD Bond 2025 Approval of the Bond 2025 is projected to result in a modest tax rate adjustment. Projected Tax Increase: An estimated $0.04 I&S (Interest & Sinking) tax rate increase is anticipated based on current projections. Estimated Monthly Impact: For a home with an average market value of $500,000 in RISD, this increase is estimated to be approximately $124 annually, or about $10 per month. Important Tax Context: The calculation assumes the passage of a constitutional amendment to increase the state-mandated homestead exemption to $140,000. The tax increase calculation includes the RISD 10% local option homestead exemption. Exemptions for homeowners over 65 are not affected by this potential tax increase. The overall RISD tax rate ($1.1052 per $100 of taxable value) adopted by the Trustees recently is the district’s lowest since 1989. Voting Dates and Historical Context Early Voting: October 20 to October 31 Election Day: Tuesday, November 4 RISD has traditionally operated on a five-year bond cycle since 1996, and the community has historically supported all school bond referendums since 1951. Capital projects funded by the last bond referendum (Bond 2021) were completed this past summer. For additional information, including the full schedule of community information sessions, visit the official district website at risd.org/bond2025.
Get Active: The Best Sports & Recreation in Richardson 2025
Richardson offers a wealth of opportunities for staying active, whether you’re a serious athlete or just looking for a fun way to spend your weekend. Based on the results of our community ballot and presented by Richardson Life Magazine, we’re pleased to reveal the winners of the Best of Richardson 2025: Sports & Recreation category! These businesses and venues have been celebrated for providing excellent facilities and experiences for our community. This is your definitive guide to finding the “best sports club in Richardson,” “local recreation centers,” or the “best outdoor activities near me.” These winners are the community’s top picks for fun and fitness. You can view the full ballot results and methodology here: Best of Richardson 2025 • Richardson Life Magazine Best Driving Range: Winner: The Golf Ranch | http://www.golfranchusa.com/ Best Golf: Winner: Sherrill Park Golf Course | http://www.sherrillparkgolf.com Best Gym: Winner: Richardson Fit Body Boot Camp | http://fitbodybootcamp.com Best Health & Fitness Club: Winner: Richardson YMCA | http://www.richardsonymca.org Best Martial Arts: Winner: Sun Lee Taekwondo | http://www.sunleetaekwondo.com Best Pilates Studio: Winner: Cornerstone Pilates | https://richardsonpilates.com/ Best Pool Hall: Winner: Billiard Den | http://billiardden.com Best Swimming Pool/Waterpark: Winner: Heights Family Aquatic Center | http://www.cor.net Best Yoga Studio: Winner: Yoga Chikitsa | http://www.yoga-chikitsa.com Congratulations to all the winners! You help make Richardson a great place to live an active and healthy life. We hope you’ll take some time to explore these fantastic recreational opportunities!
Shop Local: The Best Shopping in Richardson 2025
From unique boutiques to essential local markets, the shopping scene in Richardson is vibrant and full of character. Based on the results of our community ballot and presented by Richardson Life magazine, we’re excited to present the winners of the Best of Richardson 2025: Shopping category! This guide is a showcase of the retail establishments that have won the hearts of local shoppers. If you’re on the hunt for the “best shopping in Richardson” or a “boutique near me,” look no further. This list of winners is a great resource for discovering the most beloved places to shop in our city, as voted by the community. You can view the full ballot results and methodology here: Best of Richardson 2025 • Richardson Life Magazine Best Antique and Vintage Shop: Winner: Cottonwood Market | https://shopcottonwoodmarket@gmail.com Best Auto Dealership: Winner: North Central Ford | http://www.northcentralford.com Best Bicycle Shop: Winner: Bike Mart | http://www.bikemart.com Best Book Store: Winner: Half Price Books | https://www.hpb.com/ Best Boutique: Winner: Beyond the Door | https://Facebook.com/Beyond the Door VIP Group Best Bridal/Formal Wear: Winner: Get Noticed Boutique | https://shopgnb.com Best Children’s Clothing and Gifts: Winner: Vivi’s | https://vivisvictorypark.com Best Florist: Winner: Lizzie Bee’s | https://lizziebeesflowershoppe.com/ Best Garden Store/Nursery: Winner: Bruce Miller Nursery | https://brucemillernursery.com Best Gift Store: Winner: Beyond the Door | https://Facebook.com/BeyondtheDoorVIPGroup Best Health Food Store: Winner: Natural Grocers | http://www.naturalgrocers.com Best Men’s Clothing: Winner: Lombardo Custom Apparel | https://lombardocustomapparel.com Best Music and Instrument Store: Winner: Caraway Strings | http://www.carawaystrings.com Best Outdoor Outfitters: Winner: Half Moon Outfitters | http://www.halfmoonoutfitters.com Best Resale/Consignment Store: Winner: Uptown Cheapskate | https://www.uptowncheapskate.com › location › richardson Best Shopping Center: Winner: II Creeks | https://www.iicreeksplaza.com Best Thrift Store: Winner: Simply Grace | https://simplygracethriftstore.com Best Women’s Clothing: Winner: Beyond the Door | https://Facebook.com/Beyond the Door VIP Group A big round of applause for all the winners! Your contributions make shopping in Richardson a truly enjoyable experience. Be sure to visit these top-rated businesses and show them your support!
Finding the Best: Top Services in Richardson 2025
Whether you’re looking for a dependable auto repair shop or a trustworthy home services provider, the Best of Richardson 2025 winners for the Services category are here to help. This annual event, presented by Richardson Life Magazine, and based on the official community ballot, is a testament to the hard work and quality that these businesses bring to our community every day. When you need to find the “best services in Richardson,” this list provides a trusted, community-voted resource. These winners have been recognized for their professionalism, quality of work, and excellent customer service. You can view the full ballot results and methodology here: Best of Richardson 2025 • Richardson Life Magazine Best Accounting Firm: Winner: Ronald J. Poff. PC/Brian A. Poff, CPA | http://poffcpafirm.com Best Architect: Winner: Alliance Architects, Inc. | https://www.alliancearch.com/ Best Bank: Winner: Texas Bank and Trust | https://www.texasbankandtrust.com/ Best Bookkeeping/Tax Service: Winner: Tannery Company | https://tannerycompany.com/ Best Car Wash: Winner: Vibe Car Wash | http://www.vibecw.com Best Child Care: Winner: The Heights CDC | https://theheightscdc.com Best Construction Company: Winner: BRYJO Roofing and Remodeling | https://www.bryjo.com/ Best Contractor: Winner: BRYJO Roofing and Remodeling | https://www.bryjo.com/ Best Co-Working Space: Winner: The Drawing Board | http://www.thedrawingboarddfw.com Best Customer Service: Winner: Sweet Firefly | http://www.sweetfirefly.com Best Drapery and Upholstery: Winner: Serendipity Designs | https://www.serendipityds.com/ Best Dry Cleaner: Winner: Minsky Cleaners & Tailors | http://minskytux.com Best Embroidery Shop: Winner: Logotology | http://logotology.com Best Financial Institution: Winner: Texas Bank and Trust | https://www.texasbankandtrust.com/ Best Financial Planning: Winner: Tannery Company | https://tannerycompany.com/ Best Hair Salon: Winner: Saint Anita | https://saintanita.co Best Heating & Air Company: Winner: AC Pros | https://www.acprostx.com Best Home Remodeling: Winner: Justin Thyme Homes | http://www.justinthymehomes.com Best Insurance Agency: Winner: Assurnet Insurance Agency | https://www.assurnet.biz Best Interior Designer/Firm: Winner: Elizabeth Ryan Interiors | http://www.elizabethryaninteriors.com Best Jeweler: Winner: Pampillonia Jewelry | https://pampilloniajewelers.com/ Best Kitchen & Bath Remodeler: Winner: BRYJO Roofing and Remodeling | https://www.bryjo.com/ Best Landscape Architect: Winner: Blooming Vistas | https://bloomingvistas.com/ Best Landscaper: Winner: Blooming Vistas | https://bloomingvistas.com/ Best Law Firm/Lawyer: Winner: Chris Quillen @ Scheef & Stone | http://solidcounsel.com Best Life Coach: Winner: Abby Cameron/Indigo Coaching | https://www.indigocoaching.net Best Marketing and Communications Company : Winner: Heights Strategic Marketing | http://heightsstrategic.com Best Mechanic: Winner: Northrich Automotive | https://www.northrichauto.com/ Best Mortgage Company: Winner: Texas Bank and Trust | https://www.texasbankandtrust.com/ Best Moving and Storage: Winner: Full House Moving | http://fullhousemoving.com Best Nail Salon: Winner: Q Nails | https://qnailsrichardson.com Best New Home Builder: Winner: Shaddock Custom Builders & Developers | https://shaddockcustom.com Best Oil Change: Winner: Hi Five Auto Care | https://www.facebook.com/HiFiveAutoCare/ Best Painter: Winner: Platinum Painting of Richardson | http://www.platinumpaintingrichardson.com Best Pet Boarding/Daycare: Winner: Wag Hotels – Richardson | https://www.waghotels.com/ Best Photographer: Winner: RD Images | https://www.rdimages.com/ Best Plumber: Winner: Dried piper | https://www.driedpiper.com/ Best Pool Service: Winner: Scuba Dudes | http://scubadudespool.com Best Printing/Copying: Winner: The UPS Store at Canyon Creek | https://store6894@theupsstore.com Best Promotional Products: Winner: Logotology | http://logotology.com Best Property Management Company: Winner: Brickyard Property Management | http://www.brickyardpm.com Best Real Estate Agency: Winner: Angela Green Team-Keller Williams Central | https://angela.green@kw.com Best Real Estate Agent: Winner: Kobs & Martin | https://kobsandmartin.com/ Best Roofing Company: Winner: BRYJO Roofing and Remodeling | https://www.bryjo.com/ Best Shipping: Winner: The UPS Store at Canyon Creek | https://store6894@theupsstore.com Best Shoe Repair Store: Winner: Shoemaker | 972-235-2441 Best Tanning Salon: Winner: Palm Beach Tan | https://palmbeachtan.com/locations/tx/richardson-north-coit Best Tire Shop: Winner: Richardson Discount Tire and Auto Repair Best Title Company: Winner: Republic Title | https://www.republictitle.com Best Travel Agency: Winner: Mollie Romness, Rosedale Travel | https://www.rosedaletravel.com Best Veterinarian: Winner: Integrative Veterinary Wellness | http://integrativeveterinarywellness.com Thank you to everyone who participated in the voting process. Your feedback helps us all find the best services Richardson has to offer. We congratulate all the winners on this well-deserved recognition!