Author Archives: astoundz

In this heartfelt and stylish episode, the Contessa sits down with her one of her dearest longtime friends in Houston’s fashion industry, Katherine Le, for a conversation that spans decades of friendship, fashion, and life’s biggest blessings. 💖

Bonded over a love of handbags and high style, Katherine’s journey has been anything but conventional. From finance to fine jewelry, she’s never been tied to just one career. She launched her jewelry line, Ava Le, named after her beloved daughter, always asking friends: “What can I bling to your life?” ✨

Beyond fashion, the Contessa and Katherine share another deep connection—the gift of motherhood. After years of hoping, praying, and waiting, they both welcomed daughters in the same year, making motherhood their most cherished role. As they prepare for empty nesting with their girls heading off to college, they reflect on the journey that brought them here.

Katherine’s expertise doesn’t stop at jewelry—she’s a go-to for skincare, style, and investment-worthy fashion. She shares:
💎 Why Korean skincare changed everything (and her 8-step routine!)
👜 How true style is more than money—it’s about knowing what works for you
💰 Why pre-owned luxury is a growing trend, despite old beliefs about spirits and omens
🏦 How her Vietnamese roots shaped her view on fashion as an investment

Through every chapter—handbags, beauty, motherhood, and now, new beginnings—one thing remains: true friendship never goes out of style. 💕

Tune in for a conversation full of laughs, wisdom, and of course, fabulous fashion!

#luxurystyle #koreanskincare #handbaglover #FriendshipAndFashion #AvaLeJewelry #preownedluxury

We sell authenticated luxury products independently and we are not affiliated, associated or connected with any brands or companies of such products. 100% authenticity guaranteed or money back.

Step into the world of Chic Boutique, where fashion meets philanthropy in the most stylish way! In this episode, we sit down with Melanie Jarrell, Chic Boutique Gold Chair for the Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary “Reflections on Style” event, to discuss the upcoming pop-up shopping experience that’s truly one of Houston’s best-kept secrets.

📍 Chic Boutique Details:
🛍 Location: 3403 Richmond Ave
✨ Opening Night: Wednesday, April 9 | 3PM–7PM ($20 donation at the door – arrive early, lines around the block are legendary!)
🛒 Shop the Chic Boutique: April 10–12 | 10AM–5PM

Chic Boutique isn’t just another resale shop—it’s a curated shopping experience where Houston’s most fabulous closets donate their treasures to create a fashion lover’s dream at unbeatable prices. Volunteers (in their iconic red aprons!) meticulously organize, style, and create a boutique-like setting that feels luxurious, exclusive, and community-driven.

Every piece sold carries a story—not just from the stylish donor but also through scripture-adorned tags, reminding us of the greater mission behind the event. This is more than shopping; it’s fashion with a purpose.

At the heart of it all, we’re raising funds for critical Houston-area programs through the Salvation Army. Toward the end of the episode, Major Carolynn joins us to share the profound impact this event has—providing housing for families, rehabilitation for veterans, summer camps for kids, support for human trafficking survivors, and so much more.

💖 How to Get Involved:
✔️ Donate your gently loved designer pieces
✔️ Shop the boutique for incredible finds at amazing prices
✔️ Volunteer and be part of something bigger

“If you have two coats, give one away.” – Luke 3:11

Join us as we celebrate fashion, philanthropy, and the power of community.

Ep. #136: Style Secrets with Brittany Rose Wetterer of @StyleItWithBrit – Closet Must-Haves, Smart Shopping & Game-Changing Fashion Tips!

On this episode of Living the Authentic Life, the Contessa sits down with stylist Brittany Rose Wetterer from @StyleItWithBrit to uncover the real secrets to mastering personal style. From the two essentials most people are missing in their closets (spoiler: the right undergarments and jeans!) to pro tips on styling for body-conscious areas and using the “third piece” to take any outfit from wearing to wow, this conversation is full of must-know fashion advice.

Britt also shares her best tips for transitional dressing—perfect for those destination getaways from the big city to a big resort—and how to make smarter shopping decisions so you build a wardrobe that truly works for you. Whether you’re looking to elevate your everyday look or refine your personal style, this episode is packed with insights to help you dress with confidence!

🎧 Tune in now and get ready to transform your closet, one style hack at a time.

#livingtheauthenticlife #StyleItWithBrit #stylehacks #capsulewardrobe #fashiontips #wardrobeessentials

We sell authenticated luxury products independently and we are not affiliated, associated or connected with any brands or companies of such products. 100% authenticity guaranteed or money back.

Yoga is more than just movement—it’s a path to healing, balance, and spiritual connection. In this episode, we sit down with Charla Anderson, a Lead Yoga Instructor, Yoga Therapist, and Master Trainer, to explore the transformative power of yoga.

Charla shares how yoga creates space for deep emotional release, self-discovery, and connection to your highest, God-given self. We discuss the impact of trauma-sensitive yoga, the mind-body connection, and the power of breathwork—not just in class, but in everyday life. From overcoming challenges on the mat to facing life’s hardest moments with strength and grace, this conversation will inspire you to embrace yoga as more than a workout—it’s a way to live with intention, purpose, and spiritual alignment. 🌿 Listen now and take a breath—you deserve it. 🌿

Men’s style is more than just clothing—it’s confidence, perception, and the ultimate power move. This week, we’re sitting down with Steve Springer, custom menswear expert and founder of BLU Fine Menswear, to dive into the world of tailored suits, luxury fashion, and how the right wardrobe can change everything. 💼 From Army Medic to Master of Menswear –

Steve shares how his military background shaped his passion for precision and giving back, supporting veterans through various organizations. 👔 Custom vs. Off-the-Rack – Why many men struggle with fit, and how a bespoke suit is like a luxury watch—an investment tailored just for you. 🏇 The Western Style Resurgence – Thanks to shows like Yellowstone and Landman, classic western menswear is back. Boots, tailored jackets, and timeless pieces are making a comeback. 🕴 Building the Ultimate Starter Wardrobe– Why a dark navy suit is the essential every man needs 🔍 The Details Matter – From lapels to buttons, tuxedos vs. suits, and how the right third piece (hello, sports coat!) sets you apart in a room full of polos. 💬

Plus, Rob shares how his menswear evolution went from one pinstriped suit with shoulder pads to gaining notoriety as the luxury watch expert in a sharp sport coat—and how perception impacts respect in business. 🔥 “If you look good, you feel good. If you feel good, you play good. If you play good, they pay good.” – Deion Sanders Ready to elevate your style? Tune in for this insightful, fun, and fashion-forward episode! 🎧✨ #livingtheauthenticlife #menswear #suits #bespoketailoring #rolex #WesternGentleman #customsuits #rodeohouston #HLSR

Episode #132 with Jewelry Designer Christina Greene McAllen This week on Living the Authentic Life, we sit down with Christina Greene McAllen, the powerhouse behind Christina Greene Jewelry—the brand known for its stunning turquoise and gold designs that blend Western charm with timeless elegance.
Christina shares how her jewelry journey began in thrift stores and craft projects as a young girl, eventually leading her to Parsons School of Design in NYC and back home to Houston, where she turned her passion into a thriving business. From the long hours hustling at markets and trade shows, she takes us through the grit, glamour, and behind-the-scenes magic of bringing her designs to life.
We also chat about:
💙 The design process—from selecting stones to choosing manufacturers
🐎 Her Rodeo Houston collabs (from necklaces to scarves to handcrafted badge holders)
🏡 The balancing act of running a business while raising a family
🗓 Why Google Calendar is her secret weapon
👢 The romantic backstory behind her custom cowboy boots (spoiler: it involves a proposal!)
⛷ Her love of après-ski and the mountain lifestyle
🏔 How COVID unexpectedly boosted her business in Colorado & Wyoming Plus, we dive into why community matters, the importance of giving back as a business owner, and how Christina is expanding beyond jewelry into hat bands, scarves, and more.
Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with entrepreneurial wisdom, Houston pride, and a touch of Rodeo sparkle! 🎧✨

#ChristinaGreeneJewelry #WomenInBusiness #HoustonEntrepreneurs #RodeoHouston #LivingTheAuthenticLife

Ep# 131 The Art of Connection with Jeannie & Rob Chandler of Chandler Art Gallery 🎨

For Jeannie and Rob Chandler, art is more than something you hang on a wall—it’s a passion, a conversation, and a bridge between artists and collectors. As longtime art enthusiasts turned gallery owners, the Chandlers share their journey from collectors to curators, driven by their love for art and the artists who create it.

In this episode, we dive into:
✨ The artists who inspired them to open Chandler Art Gallery
✨ Why buying art is as personal (and sometimes intimidating) as buying a luxury watch or handbag
✨ The importance of connection—between collectors, artists, and the stories behind each piece
✨ How they guide first-time buyers to find the piece that truly speaks to them
✨ The role of their daughter, a SCAD student, in shaping their artist-first philosophy Plus, Jeannie and Rob share how Houston’s Gallery Row is fostering a thriving, supportive art community and why their goal is to make collecting art approachable, exciting, and—most of all—FUN.

“Art should never be intimidating. We want you to walk out with a smile on your face!” – Rob Chandler 🎧 Tune in for an inspiring conversation about passion, creativity, and finding the art that speaks to you!

Episode #130: Taking the Leap: PR, Philanthropy & Power Moves with Whitney Kuhn Lawson

In this episode of Living the Authentic Life, the Contessa sits down with PR powerhouse Whitney Kuhn Lawson, founder of Whitney Kuhn Lawson Public Relations. From working in the high-stakes world of network news to launching her own agency, Whitney shares how she built a career alongside some of the biggest names in media and business—including legends like Fred Smith (founder of FedEx) and Susan Zirinsky (the inspiration for Broadcast News).

Whitney opens up about: ✨ Taking the leap from corporate PR to running her own agency ✨ The power of staying connected and nurturing relationships ✨ Her whirlwind love story that led her back to Texas ✨ The changing media landscape and what it means for PR today ✨

Her deeply personal journey with surrogacy and motherhood Whitney and the Contessa also bond over their shared love of fashion, philanthropy, Cavalier King Charles pups, and the art of bringing fascinating people together (looking at you, Drake’s Houston!). Tune in for a conversation filled with wisdom, wit, and plenty of over-prepared PR pro tips!

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Join us for Episode 129 of Living the Authentic Life: A Conversation with Sachin Ahluwalia, Co-Creator of Sachin & Babi. This week we take you on a fashion journey through time talking with Sachin, the creative mind behind the brand Sachin & Babi.

We discussed how the brand challenges traditional ways of approaching fashion by creating new rules. They believe fashion isn’t about following trends; it’s about putting a personal twist on things and making them your own. Growing up, Sachin often saw his mother working diligently with garments and textiles. This environment of passion and craftsmanship in India planted the seed for his future in worldwide fashion.

Both Sachin and his wife Babi who met and fell in love in college, share a loyalty to this tradition and commitment to creating beautifully tailored pieces from fit to form to fabric. Join us as he shares stories of starting their journey together by knocking on doors and presenting their designs to anyone willing to listen—until they landed on the doorsteps of Oscar de la Renta to Donna Karan and beyond. From honing their craft to pushing boundaries, you will be mesmerized with their passion for fashion, the people on their team, the vibrant Indian culture and the women who wear their designs.