As another new year unfolds before us, or behind us, depending on when you read this, many find themselves looking for realistic, practical ways to create healthier lives. One path towards New Year’s Resolutions that can be achieved is through a focus on building better habits and establishing routines rather than setting grandiose goals with no strategy in mind to get yourself there. For example, instead of vowing to lose 50 pounds and save $10,000 before the year ends, make the more simple and concrete resolution to stop Doordashing fast food burgers and start bringing a salad into work for lunch.
Within this framework of attainable goals and healthy routines, there are a variety of different activities you can commit to in your quest to benefit your body and mind. Once again, it doesn’t have to be something epic like skydiving or trying out for the local semi-pro hockey team. For best results, consider starting with small steps. Literally.
Taking the First Steps Towards a Healthier New Year
Walking is not just the default mode of short-distance transportation for most people. It is also one of the simplest and most accessible forms of exercise available–and is surprisingly effective on multiple levels. The benefits of a good walking regimen are well documented, from a boost in cardiovascular health to an improved sense of mental clarity. A daily walking routine can transform your life in small but meaningful ways, and, best of all, it’s something you can start for free right now with no equipment necessary. Just a comfortable pair of sneakers and a high-visibility shirt or jacket with reflective elements if you plan on walking at night.
Why Walking Works
At first glance, walking might seem too simple to be effective or too mundane to stick with as a daily habit, but you shouldn’t underestimate its power and appeal. Here are a few reasons walking makes an awesome go-to exercise:
- Low impact. Unlike running and heavy weightlifting, walking is gentle on your joints and muscles, making it suitable for people of all fitness levels and age groups.
- Heart health. Regular walks are a great way to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke by improving circulation and blood pressure. It’s an especially great option for people with heart issues who want to be proactive about their health but don’t want to over-exert themselves through exercise.
- Mental wellbeing. The perks of walking go beyond the purely physical. Walking, especially in a beautiful outdoor setting, can reduce stress and improve your mood, even alleviating symptoms of depression and anxiety for some people. Many longtime walkers with creative or mentally demanding jobs also report that they do their best thinking while taking their daily strolls.
- Accessibility. No obscure equipment, overpriced memberships, or special training is required to take a walk. All you need are a safe path and a pair of shoes that you can move around in comfortably. Even folks who can’t physically walk due to an injury or disability may be able to use a mobility device to reap many of the benefits of walking.
New Braunfels and the Texas Hill Country: The Perfect Backdrop for a Daily Walk
Living in New Braunfels, TX, is a great first step because it makes starting a walking routine even easier and more rewarding. New Braunfels doesn’t just provide that perfect Texas Hill Country scenery to motivate us while developing this healthy habit, it also has great trail and sidewalk infrastructure to support walkers, runners, and cyclists. The Mayfair residential district alone will be home to dozens of miles of trails and pathways, giving residents access to many unique walking experiences without ever leaving the neighborhood. Another good place to find great walking trails in New Braunfels is along the iconic Guadalupe River.
Building Your Perfect Walking Routine
Committing to any type of new daily routine can feel a little stressful and overwhelming at first but making the resolution to get a few more steps in every day can be simple and stress-free. With a little pre-planning and motivation, you can jump right in to forming an enjoyable and beneficial habit. Try to focus on the following 3 key concepts when planning your own walking routine.
1. Set Realistic Goals
Generic self-help type wisdom usually encourages you to rack up the miles, but if you’re just beginning your first walking regimen, it may be smarter to dial back your initial expectations. It can be really deflating to spend time creating a detailed walking plan with a specific, ambitious goal, only to realize you’re not physically at that level yet. Rather than challenge yourself to walk a certain distance or number of steps each day, it’s perfectly fine to start with a simple, open-ended goal, like going for a daily walk of at least 15 minutes.
If you have an inconsistent or demanding schedule in other areas of your life, you can also plan days off, or set medium-term goals rather than daily goals. For example, committing to 8 hours of walking each month rather than 15 minutes each day can offer more flexibility. By setting modest goals, you also set yourself up for a motivating confidence boost when you routinely meet or exceed them.
2. Plan Your Route(s)
Decision fatigue is a real thing. Just like you can end up making the bad choice to eat a leftover bag of chips at 10 P.M. because you failed to decide on dinner plans, not having a plan ready to go for your afternoon, morning, or evening walk can result in you skipping it entirely if you encounter a day where you feel too mentally worn out to bother choosing a walking path.
Many dedicated walkers take the same route every single day, and this added element of consistency works great for certain people. However, we recommend beginners choose varied paths and schedule different walks for different days to help keep things interesting. This is less challenging than it might sound–for some people, you won’t even have to leave your own neighborhood to find a wealth of different walking path options. The emergent Mayfair neighborhood’s series of trails and parks, for example, will boast a combined 35 miles of scenic, friendly, and well-maintained trails.
It can also help to choose walks that have a built-in destination, either scenic or practical. This could be a local landmark, a favorite Texas Hill Country view, or the local store to pick up a few groceries before you hit the second leg of your walk and head home. To return to the example of Mayfair, many of this charming residential district’s trails are centered around Midtown Mayfair, a vibrant community hub breaking ground this spring that will feature multi-use spaces, a pool with all the amenities, and future plans for shopping and dining options.
For New Braunfels destination walks, don’t just think of your favorite park bench or smoothie shop. There’s always something going on in New Braunfels to turn your simple walk into an exciting event:
- Check out the current event schedule at the New Braunfels Library, which has awesome programs for all ages and interests.
- Use a gym as a destination to add some weightlifting or crossfit to your walking routine (or as an alternate workout space when weather gets in the way of your daily walk).
- If you’re a park walker, check out special events and classes at our many fine local parks and plan your daily walk to enjoy them (or to avoid them, if you prefer a more peaceful and solitary walking experience). Depending on where in town you’re starting from, some favorite New Braunfels parks to walk to (and some to walk around in, as many of the larger parks have beautiful trails of their own) include:
- Pecan Crossing Park Pecan Tree, New Braunfels, TX 78130
- Mission Hill Park 2100 Independence Dr, New Braunfels, TX 78132
- Fairway Park 137 Ransom Dr. New Braunfels, Tx 78130 will open in late March and will have a beautiful trail lining the 18-hole disc golf course
- Use your walk as an excuse to check in with local friends and family, or to knock some simple errands off your to-do list.
Make sure to also prioritize safety when planning out your walking routes. Stick to designated non-motorized-use trails when possible, and surface streets with good sidewalks when not. Avoid taking roads with high-speed limits, lots of blind spots, inadequate lighting, or a lack of basic pedestrian infrastructure like crosswalks. Be aware that services like Google Maps, while extremely useful for motorists, do not always know which paths in your city are legitimately safe and walkable.
Keep It Fun to Stay Motivated
Walking shouldn’t feel like a chore, and chances are, you already have enough of it in your life. By making your daily walk into something you enjoy and look forward to, you ensure long-term success.
Try incorporating passive activities that you enjoy. Listening to music, podcasts, or audiobooks is a go-to for many walkers, and if your playlists are getting stale, a daily walking session gives you ample opportunity to sample new songs and shows. For safety’s sake, consider using only a single earbud so that you keep one ear open to hear what’s going on around you–like traffic or other trail users.
Birdwatching, photography, and the use of apps that track and gamify your walking goals are other examples of activities that can be easily incorporated into a walking routine. Whether you track your daily to-dos with a motivational app like Finch, or are active on popular augmented reality games like Pokemon Go, there are lots of ways to integrate your favorite tech with your new favorite pastime.
You can also use your walking time to double-task on more productive activities, such as using a Bluetooth earpiece to catch up on important phone calls or brainstorming work assignments in your head. We strongly suggest linking your walk to more fun and enjoyable activities, however, as this will help you look forward to it as an escape from your day, rather than simply a continuation of your workday where you must work and exercise at the same time.
Make sure your walking plan also includes small rewards for meeting your goals. At the half-year point, you might plan to treat yourself to a night out at the movies or your favorite restaurant if you’re on track to meet your goals. Your rewards can be bigger, smaller, or more frequent than that, too–whatever keeps you motivated and fits your budget and lifestyle!
Looking for an even bigger way to make your daily walk more fun? Why not adopt yourself a walking buddy to bring long-term motivation and companionship? The Humane Society of the New Braunfels Area is conveniently located on Morningside Drive (add it to your next walk) and adoption fees for adult dogs start under $150. Plan to stop in and say hello to some of these good boys and girls.
Embrace the Power of the Daily Walk at Mayfair
We’ve used Mayfair’s parks and trails as an example multiple times in today’s blog, and if you’re intrigued, come see–and walk–them for yourself. Mayfair has excellently built homes in a variety of unit types, with new units available regularly and expansions ongoing. Contact Mayfair today to learn more about making it your new home.
At Mayfair in New Braunfels, we’re proud to honor the heroes who make a difference in our community every day. For a limited time, educators, medical personnel, military members, firefighters, and police officers can enjoy a special $2,000 credit toward design center options on new build homes and select inventory.
Mayfair offers a vibrant lifestyle with thoughtfully designed homes, parks, trails, and exciting community events. Anchored by Midtown Mayfair, the heart of the community features a dynamic mix of shopping, dining, and workspaces — making it the perfect place to call home. Mayfair will also be home to two Comal ISD schools, including an elementary school currently underway and a middle school anticipated to break ground soon!
Ready to explore your options? Contact our builders to schedule a tour and learn more about this exclusive offer for first responders and educators:
Highland Homes
Now selling from the $470s
2 new model homes now open
Sunday 12-6pm | Monday – Saturday 10am – 6pm
50′ series
346 Cleveland Way, New Braunfels, TX 78130
214-929-6849
Todd.Hays@highlandhomes.com
60′ series
310 Cleveland Way, New Braunfels, TX 78130
936-615-6893
Tina.Anderson@highlandhomes.com
Perry Homes
Now selling from the $460s
2 model homes now open
Sunday 12-7pm | Monday – Saturday 10am – 7pm
50′ Series
342 Cleveland Way, New Braunfels, TX 78130
210-236-3585
Malea.Breaux@perryhomes.com
60′ Series
314 Cleveland Way, New Braunfels, TX 78130
210-236-3584
Bob.Johnson@perryhomes.com
Coventry Homes
Now selling from the $430s
2 model homes now open
Monday – Thursday & Saturday 10am – 6pm | Friday & Sunday 12-6pm
50’s Collection
350 Cleveland Way, New Braunfels, Tx 78130
60’s Collection
322 Cleveland Way New Braunfels, TX 78130
210-887-8632
monty.reynolds@coventryhomes.com
marla.somoskey@coventryhomes.com
Toll Brothers
Now selling from the $430s
2 model homes now open
Monday 10am – 6pm
Tuesday 2-6pm
Wednesday – Saturday 10am – 6pm
Sunday 12-6pm
Comal Collection
338 Cleveland Way New Braunfels, TX 78130
956-949-9733
EWilliams1@tollbrothers.com
Guadalupe Collection
318 Cleveland Way, New Braunfels, Tx 78130
956-949-9733
jjamison@tollbrothers.com
Don’t miss this opportunity to find your dream home and receive a little extra as a thank-you for all you do. Visit Mayfair today!
*Additional rules, regulations and restrictions apply. Homebuyers must present valid identification or other documentation establishing qualifications, and Mayfair may, in its sole and absolute discretion, determine promotional eligibility and/or suspend or terminate offer at any time. Only one offer applicable per home address, must be presented at time of contract and cannot be combined with any other offers. Offer valid 1/15/25 – 03/31/25, and must close by 10/31/25.
The rumors are true: Costco Wholesale Corp. is headed to fast-growing New Braunfels.
The warehouse club is planning a $37 million project to build a 158,000-square-foot store and gas station at 330 Addstine Lane, near Kohlenberg Road and the Interstate 35 access road. According to filings with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, construction is expected to start in September and wrap up in March 2026.
Read More: San Antonio Express-News
The New Braunfels Economic Development Corporation reviewed progress on the Kohlenberg Road improvement project during its Nov. 21 meeting. Deputy City Manager Jordan Matney presented details on the project, which is partially funded by the 2023 bond program…
Matney also presented plans for intersection improvements at Kohlenberg Road and Mayfair’s proposed “Street B.” These enhancements will realign Continental Automotive’s driveway to meet the new signalized intersection, improving traffic flow and safety.
Read More: Community Impact
NEW BRAUNFELS – Three years ago, the Mayfair development was little more than a concept, with vast stretches of flat land and a vision for what would become a major new community.
Today, that vision is taking shape, with homes now rising on the site, part of a broader plan to build more than 6,000 homes along with schools, office spaces, and shopping centers to keep pace with the region’s growing population.
Read More: News 4 San Antonio
As fall sets in and another winter fast approaches, your body naturally responds to the changing seasons. You may not hibernate, but millions of years of well-honed instincts tell you to slow down, bulk up, and conserve your energy to better deal with the winter months. In a modern world full of on-demand food and well-heated homes, however, this natural impulse to pack on weight and lounge around is not necessary. For many, it’s completely undesirable.
For those who try to stick to a more structured workout routine, this “winter slump” can be even more noticeable–and even more frustrating. Your muscles may start to feel less responsive as the temperatures dip, and the psychological challenges can be even worse than the physical. As winter rolls around, you may find you’re having a difficult time flipping that adrenaline switch from “blegh” to “beast mode,” even with your heaviest workout playlist going full blast.
Add to these natural responses the temptation of holiday feasts and sweets, and you have a troubling formula for undoing all of last year’s exercise efforts in the span of a few cold months. Thankfully, there are some simple things you can do to keep yourself on track, raise your winter energy levels, and stay feeling great–physically and mentally–throughout the colder months.
3 Tips for Beating the Winter Slump
Overcoming your human nature is not as simple as setting a few phone alarms to remind you that it’s workout time, and there is no secret workout supplement that can completely flip your attitude and make you impervious to the weather at the same time. Even if you thoughtfully implement the following three tips, it will still require dedication and effort on your end, the same as any other worthwhile fitness plan.
It’s impossible to offer a magic solution to the challenges of winter fitness, but you can use these tips to better adjust your fitness routine to the dropping temperatures and gloomier weather. By doing this successfully, you can maintain your momentum, keep the winter weight gain manageable, and go into each day feeling energized, no matter what the forecast has to say about it.
1. Adapt Your Gear (Layer Up!)
Late fall and winter weather around the New Braunfels, TX area isn’t simply chillier but more unpredictable. Here in the heart of Texas, the onset of winter doesn’t mean guaranteed snowstorms, but it can mean that you don’t know whether to plan for 35 degrees or 70 degrees when you leave the house. As temperatures and humidity levels drop, shift, and dance around like the instructor in that jazzercise class you tried once, changing up your workout gear can make a huge difference.
Many people who love outdoor exercise–think running, hiking, team sports, or outdoor strength training–actually prefer the cooler temperatures for high-impact activity. However, the line between “refreshing” and “too cold” can be a very narrow one, especially when you’re in that sweaty, post-workout cooldown phase. Being able to quickly add–or remove–a layer is always a win for active lifestyles, but it becomes even more important in colder temperatures.
Try the following:
- Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat away.
- Incorporate a warmer mid-layer, like a fleece vest or lightweight sweatshirt, that can be tied around your waist or stowed in your backpack when not needed.
- Have a windproof outer shell available for days when it’s necessary.
- Keep light gloves, thicker sock options, and a winter hat or headband in your workout bag.
2. Adjust Your Warm-Up Routine
When the temperature goes down, you’ll want to warm yourself up a bit more than usual before you really start working out. In particular, cold weather affects your muscles, making them less flexible and, in turn, more prone to injury. Warming up thoroughly before exercise is always important but becomes absolutely crucial for those colder autumn and winter workouts.
When designing your own winter warm-up routine, consider:
- Start with dynamic, low-impact stretches: arm circles, toe-touches, and other basics can help you get your larger muscle groups loosened up on a cold morning without the risk of straining or shocking them.
- Once you’re starting to feel well-stretched, incorporate some full-body movements with a mild cardio element, like jumping jacks or lunges, as an intermediate warm-up. This continues to stretch and warm your muscles and joints while also increasing blood flow throughout your body.
- Give yourself ample time to warm up, and very gradually increase the intensity of pre-workout stretches and calisthenics (rather than doing a few quick stretches and then jumping right into your main workout).
3. Mix it Up
For some folks, one particularly difficult element of the winter slump is that it can feel never-ending. To overcome this psychological hurdle, try mixing up your workouts with new exercises and experiences. Plan a cross-training style workout with combined indoor and outdoor elements.
If you feel like your workout routine has fallen into an icy rut this winter, try to change it up with:
- Taking Classes – If the cold weather is ruining your exercise routine by making you want to stay inside, head to your gym and sign up for an (indoor) class you’ve never taken before. Trying a whole new type of workout in a structured setting will keep your mind engaged, keep your body warm, and maybe even work some muscle groups you didn’t realize you were neglecting.
- Strength Training – The cold weather can make it hard to get into the proper mindset for long runs and other intense cardio activities. Instead of beating yourself up about this and forcing yourself to complete activities that are uncomfortable and not enjoyable, it’s okay to shift more of your focus to strength training and weightlifting during the colder months. You don’t need to give up cardio completely and start making every day bicep day, but give yourself a little flexibility (and a little change of pace) so that your winter workouts are something you look forward to instead of something you grow to dread.
- Home Workouts – There are a ton of websites, videos, and even whole apps packed with exercises you can do in the comfort of your own home. The at-home workout has truly become a fitness category unto itself. You can find something worthwhile, with minimal equipment required, whether you’re trying to work major muscle groups on a day you can’t get to the gym because of a bad storm, or you just want to get your blood flowing with a 15-minute mini-workout.
Feeling Under the Weather? Try Ours Instead
If you’re really feeling those winter workout blues, have you considered that maybe it’s time to move yourself to a more temperate location? Mayfair is a vibrant and modern residential community in beautiful New Braunfels, TX. We are conveniently located near some of the state’s best gyms, trails, and parks, and are nestled up against the legendary Texas Hill Country with its many acres of outdoor recreation opportunities. New units are available regularly, so be sure to bookmark the Mayfair website and visit often.
The holiday season is all about joy, warmth, festive get-togethers, and, of course, delicious food. In the spirit of celebrating the festive season by way of our taste buds, the team at Mayfair is delighted to share some of our favorite holiday recipes and local New Braunfels dining and shopping secrets so you can find the perfect ingredient to elevate your holiday feast or a last-minute stocking stuffer for the fellow foodie in your life.
Sharing food around the holidays is a great way to connect with loved ones and create lasting memories that carry into the new year and beyond. Whether it’s a “Friendsgiving” potluck, a traditional dinner with your extended family, or your neighborhood cookie exchange, preparing and enjoying food as a family or community holds deep cultural and spiritual significance for many people.
Here in New Braunfels, TX, we’re fortunate to have access to so many fresh, local ingredients from farmers’ markets and specialty shops to make our holiday dishes even more special. We are also inspired by the intricately interwoven threads of cultural traditions, from old-world Bavarian sausages to some of the best Tex-Mex we’ve ever tasted to our very own wine and olive oil producers in the adjacent Texas Hill Country.
Join us on this culinary journey through mouth-watering recipes, cherished holiday traditions, and the best New Braunfels has to offer.
The Mayfair Team’s Favorite Holiday Recipes
From our hearts and families to your own, we hope these recipes are gifts that keep giving year after year. Whether you’re looking for feasting staples, unique ideas, or sweet treats, the Mayfair team has got you covered this holiday season.
Green Bean Casserole
Todd Richert, Broker
Let’s start it off with Todd’s perfected version of a must-have Thanksgiving side dish: green bean casserole. Cream of mushroom soup and milk (use whole milk or even whipping cream for maximum thickness) come together to form a rich medium for succulent green beans and crispy onions.
Ingredients:
- 2 cans of green beans (substitute fresh if desired)
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- Black pepper as desired
- 1 1/3 cups french fried onion rings
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Stir soup mix, soy sauce, milk, black pepper, green beans, and 2/3 of the onion rings together in a 1 ½ quart casserole dish.
- Bake for 25 minutes or until bubbling.
- Remove and stir; add the remaining onion rings on top.
- Bake for an additional 5 minutes or until onions are golden brown.
Butter Bundt Bread
Thad Rutherford, President & CEO
What could be better than a steaming bundt bread fresh from the oven on a holiday morning? Thad’s recipe makes it easy for a busy family to treat themselves on Christmas morning (or any morning) by allowing packaged biscuits to do the heavy lifting.
Ingredients:
- 1 stick butter
- 3 packages of Hungry Jack biscuits (10 oz)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Melt one stick of butter in a bundt pan.
- Arrange the biscuits in the pan without separating them.
- Bake for 25-35 minutes.
- Use a rack to cool.
Grandma’s Simple Sage Cornbread Stuffing
Terry Ramirez, Vice President of Operations
Real Thanksgiving connoisseurs know that stuffing can make or break a meal. Terry has us covered with this savory classic stuffing.
Ingredients:
- 6 cups of pre-prepared cornbread, slightly stale/dry and broken into chunks
- ½ stick of butter
- 3-4 stalks of celery, chopped
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 cup turkey, chicken, or vegetable stock
- 2 tablespoons sage (fresh chopped if available, dried if not)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Melt your butter in a large skillet, ideally cast iron.
- Cook onion and celery until they just start to soften and become translucent.
- Add half of your stock and simmer on low heat for 5 minutes, uncovered.
- Turn off the heat. Stir in the cornbread, sage, and the rest of the stock.
- Dump the stuffing mix into a baking dish and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the top layer of stuffing begins to brown and crisp.
Green Stuff Recipe
Noelle Hemphill, Lifestye Coordinator
This make-ahead recipe from Noelle takes some of the stress out of Thanksgiving day food preparation!
Ingredients:
- 3.4 ounce package instant pistachio pudding mix
- 20 ounce can crushed pineapple
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1/2 cup pecans chopped
- 8 ounce container Cool Whip thawed
Instructions:
Start by mixing together the dry pudding mix, crushed pineapple, mini marshmallows, and chopped pecans.
Next, fold in the thawed Cool Whip until well combined.
Chill overnight and have it ready to serve the next day.
Thanksgiving Dressing
James Tipton, Development Manager
No matter how you lean in the stuffing-dressing debate, James has got you covered with this wonderfully savory Thanksgiving dressing.
Ingredients:
- 1 bag Pepperidge Farm cornbread stuffing
- 1 bag Pepperidge Farm herb-seasoned stuffing
- 1 lb breakfast sausage
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 3 eggs
- ¼ cup butter, melted
- 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Mix stuffing, eggs, and butter.
- In a skillet, brown the sausage, then add the celery and onion. Cook until translucent.
- Add the sausage and vegetables to the stuffing mix.
- Add chicken broth until the stuffing is very moist.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until fully heated through.
Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pecan Bread Pudding
Kristi Robinson, Director of Marketing & Community Relations
Bread puddings and pecan-based treats make for hearty, wholesome favorites for many families this time of year, and Kristi’s pumpkin-fueled take maximizes those holiday vibes. This slow cooker recipe allows you to set it and forget it while you work on your wrapping and decorating.
Ingredients:
- 8 cups stale (or oven-dried) bread, cut into cubes
- ½ cup toasted pecans, chopped
- ½ cup cinnamon chips
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup canned pumpkin (pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- ¼ tsp ground ginger
- 1/8 tsp ground cloves
Instructions:
- Grease your slow cooker and place your bread cubes, cinnamon chips, and toasted pecans inside.
- Whisk your eggs with the pumpkin, cream, sugar, butter, and spices.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes; if necessary, stir very gently to ensure complete coating.
- Place the lid on your slow cooker and cook on low heat for around 4 hours.
- Optional: Serve with vanilla ice cream!
Mayfair’s Favorite Holiday Traditions and Decor
What good is an epic Christmas feast if you don’t have the decor to go with it and great people to join the celebration? The crew at Mayfair also has some thoughts about those all-important holiday aesthetics and the beloved family traditions that stand the test of time:
- Tree decorating (James Tipton). “Whenever our tree goes up (usually the first week of November), everyone in the house takes turns hanging their personal Christmas ornaments until the tree is full. It’s a simple but fun time to get together and watch that year’s tree come to life.”
- Advent calendars (Kristi Robinson). “My favorite home decoration is our advent calendar. My mom made it when our daughter was born, and we count down the days until Christmas by pinning fabric items to the holiday scene. As she got older, we started racing to see who could mark the most—it helps my record greatly now that she’s a teenager and sleeps in half the month!”
- Cut-your-own Christmas tree (Thad Rutherford). “I loved when I used to take the kids to Elgin and cut down a Christmas tree, even in Texas! (Although it was small…)”
- Christmas morning stockings (Terry Ramirez). “I love having the stockings hanging empty all month long. In our house, Santa fills the stockings, so it’s always a joy to watch the kids (at any age) come down Christmas morning to see their stockings filled.”
- Christmas light cruise (Todd Richert). “My favorite Christmas tradition is driving around on Christmas Eve looking at Christmas lights, then heading to midnight mass.”
- Hidden Pickle Ornament (Noelle Hemphill). “On Christmas morning, we search for a hidden pickle ornament in the Christmas tree. The first person to find it gets a prize. I believe this is an old German tradition.”
Mayfair’s Favorite Holiday Hotspots for Shopping
New Braunfels’ charming downtown offers a unique opportunity to get out and experience the magic of the holiday season firsthand. Stroll down the beautifully decorated streets, explore one-of-a-kind boutiques, and find local treasures you won’t discover anywhere else. From cozy shops with locally made gifts to specialty stores brimming with festive vibes, holiday shopping in New Braunfels is about the experience as much as it’s about your gift list.
If you still need some gift ideas, these New Braunfels restaurants and gift shops are Holiday game-changers. Here are some of our favorite local shopping (and eating) secrets:
- Farmer’s Market & 2tarts (James Tipton). “We’re big fans of the farmers market that sets up in the Krause parking lot every Saturday. There are so many different vendors and random things you can buy, from food to houseplants. We are also guaranteed to make our way through 2tarts at least once over the holidays for a fun treat.”
- The Local & Huisache Grill (Noelle Hemphill). “We love shopping at The Local in New Braunfels for Christmas presents because it offers unique, custom finds while supporting small vendors of New Braunfels. Afterward, we love stopping by Huisache Grill for their tortilla soup, especially on colder days.”
- New Braunfels Smokehouse & Stahlman’s at Bear Creek (Kristi Robinson). “I always stop by New Braunfels Smokehouse during the holidays for Pecan and Raspberry Kringle. They are delicious! Then Stahlman’s at Bear Creek has amazing local jams, jellies, sauces, and even cute fresh holiday décor.”
- New Braunfels Candle Company. Everyone loves a nice candle for a Christmas present, and you won’t find any finer than the handmade offerings right here in New Braunfels at the New Braunfels Candle Company on Castell Avenue. In addition to some of the highest quality candles in Texas, they also have candle-making classes and a lovely line of bath and body products.
- New Braunfels Art League. For a truly one-of-a-kind gift, there’s no better source than your friendly local artists—and the New Braunfels Art League has the work of hundreds of them curated in one convenient location for shopping or just a little art appreciation. Put the New Braunfels Art League on your list of destinations for holiday shopping this year, and you’re sure to find something brand new for that person who truly has everything.
We always love a chance to shout out some of our New Braunfels favorites; our hometown has a vibrant economy, with new businesses trying their hand every year. However, temporary events like art shows and craft fairs also offer unique opportunities for picking up meaningful gifts with local flavor. Sometimes, our favorite shopping experiences in New Braunfels happen when we simply take a walk and see what we can find.
Mayfair – Your Home for the Holidays and New Braunfels Dining
The whole team at Mayfair would like to wish you and yours a wonderful holiday season this year, and we look forward to seeing you in the new year. However you choose to celebrate this time of year with your family and your community, we hope it will involve lots of laughs, hugs, and memories made (plus some great food). For more great tips on New Braunfels living, and to stay up to date on all developments at Mayfair, including new units available, please bookmark our website and visit often.
Mayfair’s development team is dedicated to supporting New Braunfels through partnerships with various local charities and volunteers who are making the city a better place to live and work. The New Braunfels Chamber of Commerce recently recognized this commitment by naming Southstar, developer of Mayfair, as a 2024 NBgives Honoree.
NBgives is an initiative showcasing local businesses making a difference in and around New Braunfels through charitable giving, volunteerism, and community engagement – setting the standard for others to follow. At the 2024 NBgives Awards on Oct. 22, the Chamber celebrated Southstar for its meaningful impact on New Braunfels. As Mayfair becomes a thriving new addition to the city, Southstar’s pledge to community engagement has proven instrumental in fostering local connections and supporting area nonprofits.
The Southstar team, with deep expertise in mixed-use and master-planned communities, brings a visionary approach to Mayfair, a 1,900-acre development taking shape in New Braunfels. The project is designed to offer diverse housing options, extensive public parks, and a lively Midtown Mayfair district for shopping, dining, recreation, and business, making it a unique asset to the region. While Mayfair’s size and design are impressive, its true distinction comes from its active role in the New Braunfels community.
Mayfair has actively supported several local organizations, participating in and sponsoring events with the New Braunfels Economic Development Corporation (NBEDC), the Chamber of Commerce, the Rotary Club, and the Comal Education Foundation, among others. The community’s dedication to environmental conservation is evident in its involvement with projects like the Texas Sponsor a Highway program, where Mayfair sponsors cleanup efforts along I-35.
A standout initiative for Mayfair is its recently introduced Mayfair Promise program, a long-term pledge to make a tangible impact in the New Braunfels community. For every single-family home sold within Mayfair, Southstar has committed to donating $100 to three impactful local nonprofits: the Comal Education Foundation, Headwaters at the Comal, and the New Braunfels Parks Foundation. These donations are projected to reach over $1.6 million throughout the life of the project. The selection of these three charities reflects Mayfair’s core values, supporting quality education, promoting healthy and active lifestyles, and enhancing environmental conservation.
Beyond financial contributions, Mayfair’s design prioritizes public spaces that enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors alike. The first public park, Fairway Park, is set to open soon and will feature an 18-hole disc golf course, a bike pump track, trails, and a playscape. Additionally, through partnerships with organizations like the Great Springs Project and Comal Trails Alliance, Mayfair is committed to creating 35 miles of community trails that connect to regional projects promoting health and walkability.
Through its projects and promises, Southstar demonstrates a vision that goes beyond development, fostering a legacy of giving back and building a foundation for a more connected, thriving New Braunfels community. To learn more about the Mayfair Promise, visit our website.
Welcome to Mayfair, New Braunfels’ newest destination for inspired living. Just down the road from the charm of historic Gruene, Mayfair offers beautiful new homes and a lifestyle built around community connection and convenience. Thoughtfully designed parks, scenic trails, and year-round events bring homeowners together, while Midtown Mayfair serves as the heart of it all, offering a vibrant mix of shopping, dining, and workplaces.
New homes in Mayfair, starting from the $400s, are designed to fit your lifestyle—and we always have quick move-in options as well as new homes underway to fit your moving timeframe. Click here to explore our inventory and be sure to check out our builders’ year-end promotions to take advantage of great pricing and rate opportunities before 2024 ends!
Coventry Homes
Model Addresses:
322 Cleveland Way
New Braunfels, TX 78130
210-887-8632
350 Cleveland Way
New Braunfels, TX 78130
210-887-8632
Year-End Incentive:2/1 Buydown Program: Coventry will pay to lower your interest rate by 2% the first year and 1% the second year before returning to your fixed rate of 4.99% in year three and beyond. Contact the Coventry team for all the details and restrictions.
Highland Homes
Model Addresses:
346 Cleveland Way
New Braunfels, TX 78130
512-834-8971
310 Cleveland Way
New Braunfels, TX 78130
512-834-8444
Year-End Incentive:Now through December 31,purchase an inventory home in San Antonio and receive $20,000 to lower your interest rate. Learn about all the details and restrictions by contacting the Highland Homes team at Mayfair.
Perry Homes
Model Addresses:
342 Cleveland Way
New Braunfels, TX 78130
830-313-9598
314 Cleveland Way
New Braunfels, TX 78130
830-313-9516
Year-End Incentive:Now through December 31, save up to $30,000 your way – Sales Price Discount or 4.49% Interest Rate / 4.653% APR on 30-Year Fixed Rate or Closing Costs Savings. Contact the Perry Homes team at Mayfair to learn about restrictions.
Toll Brothers
Model Addresses:
338 Cleveland Way
New Braunfels, TX 78130
877-500-0508
318 Cleveland Way
New Braunfels, TX 78130
877-500-0508
Year-End Incentive:50% off up to $50,000 in design options for both collections. For more information and to learn about restrictions, contact Toll Brothers at Mayfair.
Whether you’re ready to move now or prefer a home at an earlier stage of construction, we have options to fit your timeline. Explore Mayfair today and find the perfect home to suit your needs—and don’t forget to ask about our current promotions!
In the heart of New Braunfels, TX, the Mayfair neighborhood stands out as one of the most smartly planned, ambitious, and highly livable residential development projects in recent memory. It’s also noteworthy for its commitment to helping residents achieve more sustainable, eco-friendly lifestyles. From water conservation to energy efficiency, Mayfair has been committed to a reduced environmental footprint (and an increased quality of life for residents) from day one, and it shows.
Mayfair’s residents and neighbors can point proudly to their commitments to water conservation, energy efficiency, sustainable construction practices, and the greater New Braunfels community. From its beautiful outdoor community spaces to its water-saving toilets and financial support of local environmental organizations, Mayfair stands out as one of the “greenest” new residential developments to be found in Texas–or anywhere in the United States.
While each individual person’s relationship with sustainability will look a bit different depending on their personal goals, beliefs, and means, all of Mayfair’s residents are contributing to a more sustainable world simply by living here.
Mayfair’s Green Practices and Features
Making your home at a brand-new Mayfair address can make it easier than ever before for you and your family to live a “greener” and more sustainable lifestyle. Here’s how:
Water Conservation
Water conservation can be a major issue during hot Texas summers, and that’s why it’s a cornerstone of Mayfair’s commitment to sustainable living. For example, Mayfair implements EPA-recognized WaterSense programs and top-of-the-line, highly efficient appliances and fixtures throughout the community, reducing water use without compromising performance.
From water-saving toilets to comprehensive pressure testing that can identify and stop leaks, Mayfair and the builders we partner with are committed to helping New Braunfels save thousands of gallons of water each year.
Energy Efficiency
Mayfair’s dedication to greener living extends to its use of the most energy-efficient appliances on the market, as well as its partnerships with local utility providers. These partnerships give us access to cutting-edge initiatives like smart grid technology and renewable energy integration. This not only stabilizes and diversifies Mayfair’s local power supply, but it also reduces the overall carbon footprint of the community.
Conscious Construction
Sustainable practices at a Mayfair home begin long before a resident ever moves in because they work with top local builders who are leaders in the field of sustainable home construction. Their builders employ many techniques to minimize the community’s environmental impact, including using paints and finishing materials that are more environmentally and health-friendly, the strategic use of recycled materials, and the installation of energy-efficient insulation, windows, and roofing.
Community Involvement
Mayfair’s commitment to sustainability and the environment extends beyond the development and into the greater New Braunfels community. To be a great neighbor to the rest of New Braunfels, it’s important to get involved with local environmental initiatives.
To that end, Mayfair makes ongoing donations to organizations like Headwaters at the Comal, the New Braunfels Parks Foundation, and the Comal Education Foundation as the community continues to grow. By supporting these organizations, Mayfair not only strengthens its bond with the larger New Braunfels community but also helps to foster a citywide culture of environmental stewardship.
Living Green at Mayfair: Practical Tips for New Braunfels Residents
Of course, sustainable living at Mayfair isn’t all about state-of-the-art appliances and donations to community groups. Each one of Mayfair’s residents can play their own crucial role in maintaining the community’s eco-friendly reputation. If you’re just beginning your sustainable living journey and aren’t quite sure where to start, here are a few quick tips:
- Reduce, Reuse, Recycle – You might have first heard this one in Kindergarten, but now that you’re a homeowner, it’s a great time to get back to the fundamentals. Think carefully about what you discard, and practice the three R’s to minimize waste and conserve useful resources.
- Energy Efficient Appliances – When furnishing or upgrading your home, make sure you’re investing in appliances with high energy efficiency ratings to reduce unnecessary energy consumption. If you’re tempted by a less efficient appliance with a slightly lower price tag, be sure to consider the long-term energy savings involved in your decision.
- Native Plants and Grasses – Residents are encouraged to experiment with the use of native plants in their gardens and landscapes. Native plants are already adapted to local weather patterns, pests, and soil conditions, so they require very little in the way of water and chemical treatments. Traditional grass lawns require huge amounts of water, and the Texas heat means they’re especially unsustainable in New Braunfels. They also require frequent mowing, while native grasses require less upkeep. [***LINK TO NEW NATIVE PLANT BLOG***]
- Carpooling – Carpooling, when it’s a viable option, is another great way to reduce your carbon footprint.
- Biking – Biking to places of work, home, or even the grocery store is not only a good way to live green, but also healthy and a viable way of exercising.
- Walking – Walking is an excellent option for getting around and allows for extra socialization along with a way to reduce your carbon footprint.
- Minimize single-use plastic purchases: Using reusable rather than plastic water bottles might seem like a small change, but it makes an incredible difference in the amount of waste you generate each week. For leftovers and packed lunches, you could also make the switch from plastic baggies to reusable containers.
Remember, every small action you take to live more sustainably contributes to a greater change. For example, re-using a plastic mayonnaise jar as a container for hardware odds and ends might seem insignificant, but an incredible amount of waste would be prevented if every household found a way to re-use just one packaging item every week.
The Future of Sustainable Living in Mayfair
As the Mayfair development and the vibrant community it hosts continue to grow and thrive, so does its collective commitment to sustainability. Long-term plans for the community include the inclusion of more green spaces, enhanced water- and energy-efficiency technologies, and continuing to foster connections with the community and natural beauty of the New Braunfels area. In sticking to this greener path, Mayfair hopes to create a thriving, eco-friendly space that sets the standard for modern, sustainable living.
To learn more about sustainable living in Texas, bookmark the Mayfair website and check back often. Be sure to inquire about available units if you’re looking for a new home in New Braunfels.