An emphasis on some of the best moments of the new issue, hot rods on an even hotter fashion set, a brush with cutie greatness and more.
Haute Wheels
Photographing beautiful people in leather, tweed and all things fall fashion is always a hot endeavor when production schedules mean you shoot in July. But this year’s set had an extra dose of heat in the form of three stunning classic cars that local collectors generously allowed us to borrow: a 1965 Ford Mustang Fastback owned by Jimmy Young, a 1989 Mercedes 560SL owned by Steve Lancaster and a 1985 Porsche 911 Carrera Targa owned by Bud Watts.
“I love coming across a beautiful, classic car out on the town. It’s inspiring to see owners who really take pride in fixing up and maintaining their vehicles,” says stylist and editorial contributor Josie Burnett, whose dream ride just so happens to be a 1980s Mercedes.
Special thanks to Young, Lancaster and Watts and for sharing their rides, of which we are deeply envious.
1965 Ford Mustang Fastback
Owner: Jimmy Young
Owned for: Five years
Favorite thing about the car: “It is just like the one my dad owned when I was a kid. I have fond memories of riding in the back and playing with my Hot Wheels.”
1989 Mercedes 560SL
Owner: Steve Lancaster
Owned for: Two years
Favorite thing about the car: “Driving around town with the top off.”
1985 Porsche 911 Carrera Targa
Owner: Bud Watts
Owned for: A little over a year.
Favorite thing about the car: “There is nothing like driving a Porsche.”
Crown Jewel Pup
One of Team Soirée’s absolute favorite days of the year is when we get to meet the winner of our Cutest Dog Contest, and our newest royal didn’t disappoint.
“Bucky was a doggone treat to work with: the softest coat, the best smile and personality for days!” art director Emma Devine says. “His energy and joy were infectious, and he didn’t let a missing leg slow him down one bit. A true king!”
Queens of the Wardrobe
Fall fashion wasn’t the only shoot where Team Soirée got to play.
“It adds an extra element of fun any time we photograph women who are comfortable and experienced in front of a camera,” Burnett says.
And that’s just what we got with Ebony Mitchell and Cori Keller, former Miss Arkansas winners and current Power of the Purse chairs for the Women’s Foundation of Arkansas.
“They each brought many pieces from their own closets — as former pageant queens, they know the importance of being prepared for anything — and it was hard to choose because they looked good in every outfit. Not a single smile, hair or finger was off on these two ladies!”
Standout Quote
“Arkansas is definitely known for being progressive in this area.”
– Dr. Karen Farst, Team for Children at Risk / chief medical officer of Arkansas Children’s Hospital, recipient of Children’s Advocacy Centers of Arkansas’ 2025 Inspire Award