7 Things Our West Texas Editor Is Loving Right Now

Mural artwork by Mari Pohlman. Photography by Audrey Benninghoff.

As advocates for small businesses, The Scout Guide editors are continually scouting their communities for local finds to share and celebrate. With their fingers on the pulse, they are also excellent sources of unique recommendations. Recently, we caught up with The Scout Guide West Texas editor Claire Ramirez, who will be launching her first guide this year, to find out what she’s really excited about these days. Here, she shares her current obsessions, from her favorite cowboy hat to the cocktail she’ll be sipping all winter long to an inspiring podcast about women entrepreneurs and more.

1. WHAT I’M USING

Revision Skincare YouthFull Lip Replenisher from Sculpt Haus // I was given YouthFull Lip Replenisher for Christmas and I get why there is so much hype around it. I have never used another product that after one use made such a noticeable difference. The balm is now my go-to beauty item for him or her. It stays on, hydrates, and gives you a nice finished look without leaving a tacky residue.”

2. WHAT I’M DRINKING

Weekend at the Ranch with Flecha Azul Tequila // There is only one rule when you enjoy a Weekend at the Ranch: it has to be outside surrounded by close friends. This drink became a quick favorite amongst West Texans and anyone else who tries it, but what sets it apart is really the quality of the tequila. Flecha Azul’s creator and owner is Midlander Aron Marquez, and this small business owner has really taken the tequila world by storm by recently partnering with Mark Wahlberg. Enjoy the drink yourself by following the recipe below: 

  • 2 ounces Flecha Azul tequila
  • 3/4 ounce grapefruit juice, freshly squeezed
  • 1/2 ounce lime juice, freshly squeezed
  • 1/2 ounce simple syrup
  • Stiegl Radler Beer, to top
  • Garnish: grapefruit twist and dress the rim with Tajin

3. WHAT I’M PLAYING 

Rummikub Collectors’ Edition from Ellis Hill // “I am a board game type of girl and recently have fallen in love with Rummikub. I play with my neighbors, my sisters, and even my husband. I enjoy having the pressure of the game and exercising my mind in finding a way to solve the puzzle. Since I play so often I was looking for a collectors’ edition of the game and stumbled upon this gorgeous set by Ellis Hill in Dallas, Texas. Unfortunately, unless I start playing Rummikub for money, I may never be able to justify the price tag. But a girl can dream!”

4. WHAT I’M CARRYING

The St. Barths Large Tote by Naghedi from Nines Apparel // A large tote is a must-have for my lifestyle. I need something that is large enough to carry all of The Scout Guides and media kits that I take with me while scouting—and this tote does just that with ease. I love the matching clutch that comes with the bag; it really seals the deal for me when my day look needs to quickly turn into a night look.”

5. WHAT I’M LISTENING TO 

How’d She Do That? Podcast with Emily Landers // “A dear friend recommended this podcast to me and I now listen weekly. The host, Emily Landers, sits down and chats with a variety of women business owners who have really beaten the odds and taken their businesses to the next level—women like Julie Friedman, the founder of Young, Wild and Friedman; Alex Snodgrass from The Defined Dish; Morgan Hutchison, the founder of Buru; Cristina Lynch, founder of Mi Golondrina, and many more.”

6. WHAT I’M COVETING

Yellow Gold Diamond Personalizable Pendant from Cathy Eastham // “I have been drooling over this piece for a while and can you blame me? You can customize the engraving with whatever you want and even use a loved one’s precious handwriting to make it that much more sentimental. I think this is the perfect gift for anyone, from your daughter to your mother-in-law. It’s a piece anyone would be thrilled to add to their collection.”

7. WHAT I’M WEARING

The Rambler from J.B. Prewitt // “The Rambler is what all hat dreams are made of, especially for us Texas girls. It has a traditional western shape but with a modern twist with a shorter brim. I love the way that Katrina, the designer, hand-selects a beautiful feather for each hat and then brands the owners’ initials on the back on-site. I can wear this hat on vacation, on a date night, or to the rodeo—and get all the compliments no matter where I am.”

To keep up with Claire’s  current loves and all things local in West Texas, follow The Scout Guide West Texas on Instagram and visit westtexas.thescoutguide.com.