Home & Horizon Magazine Premiere Issue

BUILDING FOUNDATIONS Home & Lifestyle Magazine

Issue 001

Home For The Holidays

Holiday Recipes, Hosting Tips, Market Insights and More!

A Foundation Built on Community, Home, and Legacy.

INSIDE THE ISSUE 5 A NOTE FROM BRYCE

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MONICA’S DESIGN CORNER

THE LEGACY OF DOROTHY SMITH

38 MARKET INSIGHTS

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LOCAL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

SPACES THAT SPARK CONNECTION

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A NEW FOUNDATION

SWEET TRADITIONS REIMAGINED

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44 BUILDING YOUR NEXT FOUNDATION

EDITORIAL TEAM Bryce Smith Editor-In-Chief Arianna Guerra Editorial Director Kenji Smith Creative Director Adam Lowe Photographer Monica Smith Contributor

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Bryce G. Smith Baking Peppermint Hot Fudge Cookies

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A NOTE FROM BRYCE The holiday season has a way of slowing the world down just long enough for us to see what truly matters. It reminds us that the most meaningful parts of life rarely come from the rush or the noise. They come from the gathering, the glow, and the quiet, certain feeling of belonging. They come from the spaces where we feel grounded. They come from home.

At Building Foundations, we believe home is more than a physical place. It is the starting point for everything we hope to create, become, and experience.

It is the environment that shapes us, supports us, and reflects who we are becoming. It is where confidence, comfort, and creativity take root. And it is where the life you deserve begins to take shape.

Inside this Holiday Issue, you will find stories that speak to tradition, creativity, and connection. You will meet local makers whose artistry adds soul to the spaces we live in. You will discover design ideas that bring warmth and elegance to the season without overcomplicating it. You will find timeless recipes that have been passed down through generations and reminders of how food, family, and culture shape the meaning of home. And you will step into conversations about growth, opportunity, and the many ways this city continues to welcome dreamers who are building their futures here.

Above all, this issue sets the tone for what Building Foundations stands for. We are here to help you build a life that feels grounded, inspired, and truly yours.

To show you how to transform your space into a reflection of your identity. To share tools, knowledge, and stories that elevate your lifestyle. To remind you that you already have everything you need to begin.

As we close another year and step into a new one, I hope these pages encourage you to look at your home and your life with fresh eyes. Celebrate where you are.

Honor where you have been. And get excited for what you are building next.

Bryce G. Smith BUILDING FOUNDATIONS MAGAZINE

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Home For The Holidays

SPACES THAT SPARK CONNECTION

By Bryce G. Smith Spaces That Spark Connection Become The Backdrop For The Memories Families Carry Forward

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ontrary to popular belief, the magic of the holidays is not found in perfection. It is found in presence. The messy moments of digging through decorations you’d forgotten about and the trials and errors of recreating a family recipe make for memories forever associated with that special joy that exists during the holiday season.

Transforming a home into a holiday oasis doesn’t require grand decorations or professional level lighting, rather, it requires a space that sparks connection as soon as you walk through the door. These are the homes where the magic happens because they are designed to gather.

Columbus communities are intentional about spreading holiday cheer through decorations that promote the season. Some homes are dressed in fresh greenery and soft candlelight, others shine bright with bold and festive lighting, and of course there’s those who show love to the buckeyes through their holiday decor. Although different in aesthetic, these spaces share intention. Thoughtful decor drawing people closer and reminds us that the heart of every celebration is not the room itself but the people inside it.

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The Smith Family Christmas Tree Located in the Living Room

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ARRANGE AN INVITING ATMOSPHERE You want your space to feel open and warm. Architecturally, homes that flow easily between the kitchen, dining room, and living space encourage movement and conversation creating the perfect backdrop for entertaining. Position your seating and tables in a way that allows room for movement and a continuous path for company to gather.

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Natural wood, plush textiles, and layered lighting are essential for making the home feel rooted and welcoming.

Adding lamps in pockets of the room that do not rely on overhead lighting or including cozy touches such as throw blankets, decorative pillows or table runners can transform your home into a space that invites guests to settle in.

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CREATE YOUR OWN TRADITIONS Weaving your own personality throughout your home creates an authentic atmosphere, thus encouraging guests to enjoy themselves comfortably. These touches of you can be as big or as small as you’d like, whether it’s a wreath with your name engraved, customized pillowcases or a themed Christmas tree, showcasing your vibe can be a great way to enjoy the holiday season.

As huge horror movie fans, my family enjoys gathering in our movie room to enjoy the newest suspenseful film. While we wanted every room to have a touch of holiday spirit, we didn’t want the movie room to lose that moody atmosphere that we love. Which led to our Nightmare Before Christmas room, a which ties together both holidays.

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Bryce Putting up The Family Christmas Tree

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EMBRACE THE BEAUTY OF A HOME ALL YOUR OWN The holidays are not about presenting a perfect home, they are about belonging.

No matter how big or small your space is, the holiday season invites you to create your own traditions, to honor your memories, and to welcome new ones with open arms.

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A true home gives that feeling in every season, but during the holidays it becomes almost magical. This year, don’t put unnecessary pressure on yourself, savor the chaos of preparation and slow down enough to appreciate the holiday spirit happening across Central Ohio.

“The holiday season invites you to create your own traditions to honor your memories and to welcome new ones with open arms.”

- Bryce G. Smith

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A New Foundation

By Bryce G. Smith

The story of families beginning a new chapter in their dream home, blending old traditions with new memories for their first Christmas together

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Decorating for Christmas is also an opportunity to express your style. Some people love classic colors and traditional ornaments. Others prefer soft neutrals, natural greenery, and a more minimal approach. Many enjoy blending old pieces with new ones, combining heirlooms from past generations with items that reflect who they have become today. The purpose is not to impress but to create a space that feels like comfort.

The arrangement of a room can be part of the holiday ritual. Moving the sofa to face the fireplace, adding extra seating for gatherings, or draping cozy blankets over the arm of a chair invites conversation and rest. These choices remind us that home is meant to be lived in, shared, and enjoyed.

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s the holidays approach, even the simplest space can become something magical. A home does not need grand architecture or designer furnishings to feel warm and inviting. It simply needs personality. It needs care. And most importantly, it needs you.

The beauty of the Christmas season is how easily it transforms a space. Soft lights draped around a doorway add instant charm.

A Christmas tree of any size becomes a symbol of joy, memory, and hope. Even a single wreath hung with intention can shift the mood of a room. Holiday décor encourages us to slow down, reflect, and celebrate the meaningful moments created within our walls.

Making a home feel personal during the holidays begins with the senses. The glow of warm lights, the scent of pine or cinnamon simmering on the stove, and the sound of laughter filling a living room all shape the atmosphere of the season. These details matter more than the size or layout of your home.

They create emotion. They tell the story of who you are and how you want to live.

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A Home Does Not Need Grand Architecture or Designer Furnishings to Feel Warm and Inviting.

It Needs Personality.

It Needs Care.

And Most Importantly, It Needs You. Traditions add another layer of meaning. Hanging stockings, baking family recipes, trimming the tree, and hosting loved ones help build a sense of home that décor alone cannot create.

These moments ground us and allow us to honor where we have been while creating new memories in the present.

The Building Foundations Team Decorating For Christmas 15

For many people, the holidays also mark a fresh start. A new home, a new chapter, a new foundation. Decorating a space for the first time brings excitement and possibility. It invites questions about how a room will grow and evolve, what memories will be made, and how the space will support the life being built inside it.

The backdrop for this story, shown through the photography in these pages, is a home styled with intention. Each detail from the greenery to the lighting to the layout serves as a reminder that home is not something you find. It is something you create.

Christmas makes this truth especially clear.

It encourages us to look around and appreciate the spaces that hold our lives. No matter where you live or how many times you have moved, the holiday season offers a chance to pause, decorate, dream, and make your home feel like your own.

In the end, a home becomes meaningful not because of its walls but because of how you fill it.

You fill it with joy, with warmth, with tradition, and with memories that become the foundation for every Christmas still to come.

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Monica’s Design Corner

By Monica Smith

Holiday Home Design Tips for a Beautiful and Cozy Season

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he holiday season is my favorite time of year to make a home feel warm, inviting, and full of joy.

I believe that every space can be transformed into something beautiful, no matter the size of your home or the size of your budget. A home becomes magical during Christmas not because of what you buy, but because of the intention, creativity, and love you put into it.

Styling your home for the season should never feel overwhelming. It should feel inspiring. It should feel personal. And it should feel like an extension of you and your family. Here are some of my favorite tips for creating a festive holiday home that looks beautiful, feels cozy, and does not require you to spend a lot of money.

Monica Smith Decorating her Christmas Tree

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Begin by Using What You Already Have Before you head to the store, take a walk through your home.

You likely already own pieces that can be used in creative ways. Candles, baskets, trays, and glass bowls can instantly become holiday décor with a few simple touches. A bowl filled with ornaments becomes a centerpiece. A neutral throw blanket feels festive when paired with a sprig of greenery.

You may be surprised by how many small items you already have that can help you style your home for the season.

Introduce Greenery for Instant Warmth Greenery is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to elevate your holiday decor. You can use real or faux stems, and both can look beautiful when styled with intention.

A simple garland becomes fuller and richer by adding pinecones, picks, ribbon, or a few ornaments. If you prefer a natural look, step into your backyard and gather pine, cedar, or magnolia branches. These bring life, texture, and warmth into your home at no cost at all.

Create Cozy Moments in Every Room Holiday styling should not be limited to the living room.

Small touches throughout your home can create a sense of comfort and harmony. Placing a lantern with a battery candle near the fireplace, hanging a wreath with a soft ribbon on an interior door, or adding a stack of holiday books to the coffee table are tiny details that can create a welcoming environment that feels thoughtful and calm.

Use Soft Lighting to Set the Mood Lighting completely transforms a space, especially during the holidays. However there’s no need to purchase expensive fixtures or dramatic chandeliers, because just a few simple layers of soft lighting can elevate the aesthetic of a room. Twinkle lights inside a glass vase, a small lamp on a side table, or flameless candles on the mantle all add warmth and ambiance. In the evening, turning off the overhead lights and letting the small lights glow creates the cozy magic that makes this time of year so special.

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Choose a Simple Color Palette One of the easiest ways to make your holiday décor feel pulled together is to select a color palette and stick with it.

You might prefer traditional reds and greens. You might love elegant golds and creams. Or maybe you feel most at home with soft neutrals and natural tones. Whatever you choose, keeping your colors consistent ensures that your décor feels cohesive and intentional.

Style with Affordable Accents You do not have to spend a lot in order to make your home look beautiful. Ribbon is one of my favorite budget friendly decorating tools. It can instantly dress up wreaths, garlands, and even wrapped gifts. Clear glass pieces are another affordable option. Vases, bowls, and candle holders can be filled with ornaments, pinecones, or small LED lights for a high end look at a low cost. Thoughtful accents can elevate your décor in simple and elegant ways.

Personalize Your Space Holiday decorating should never feel like a display in a store. Your home should feel like you. Add framed family photos, handwritten notes, or ornaments collected over time. Display items that hold meaning. These personal touches bring warmth and heart into your space and remind you that the most beautiful parts of the holiday season are the memories that surround you.

Do What Feels Good for You The holidays are often filled with pressure, but your home should not be. Allow yourself to decorate in a way that feels true to who you are. Mix old pieces with new ones.

Keep the traditions that bring you joy. Let go of what no longer fits your style. Give yourself permission to enjoy the process instead of striving for perfection.

A beautiful home is a lived in home. It tells your story. It holds your memories. And during the holiday season, it creates a warm and inviting foundation where love can grow and traditions can continue.

This Christmas, I hope your home feels like comfort. I hope it feels like celebration. And I hope it feels like you.

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LIFESTYLE & LEGACY

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Sweet Traditions Reimagined

By Bryce G. Smith

Classic Holiday Treats and Modern Hosting Tips Inspired by the Smith Family’s Love of Cooking and Celebration

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What’s Christmas Without Sweet Traditions?

You know it’s holiday season in the Smith household because you’ll smell fresh baking before you even step through the door.

Here’s a list of some of our favorite sweet treats.

Pecan Bourbon Balls

A decadent no bake holiday favorite infused with warm bourbon and rich chocolate.

Ingredients » Two and a half cups crushed vanilla wafers » Two tablespoons cocoa powder » One half cup chopped pecans » One half cup shredded sweet coconut » Three tablespoons light corn syrup » One-fourth cup of your favorite bourbon » Confectioners sugar for rolling Instructions Step 1: Mix all ingredients together in a bowl Step 2: Let the bourbon absorb for 10 minutes Step 3: Roll into small balls Step 4: Roll balls in confectioners sugar Step 5: Store in an airtight container Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

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Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies Prep: 3 Hours (Includes chilling) Bake: 12 minutes | Makes: 20 cookies Cookie Ingredients

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, beat the butter, » 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light » 1/2 cup granulated sugar and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla and mix until » 1/2 cup packed light or dark brown combined. sugar » 1 large egg, at room temperature Step 2: In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, » 1 tspn pure vanilla extract cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Add the » 1 tspn of peppermint extract dry ingredients to the wet ingredients on low » 1 cup all-purpose flour speed until a thick dough forms. » 2/3 cup natural unsweetened cocoa powder Step 3: Mix in the milk, then fold in the » 1 tspn baking soda chocolate chips. Cover and chill the dough for at » 1/8 tspn salt least 3 hours. » 1 tblspn milk » 1 1/4 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

Peppermint Hot Fudge Ingredients » 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate, chopped » 6 tblspns granulated sugar » 1/2 cup heavy cream » 1/4 cup light corn syrup » 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder » 1/8 teaspoon salt » 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened » 1 tspn pure vanilla extract » 1 tspn of peppermint extract » 2/3 cup natural unsweetened cocoa powder » 1 tspn baking soda » 1/8 tspn salt » 1 tablespoon milk » 1 1/4 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips For Garnish: Jumbo Marshmellows and Crushed Peppermint

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Step 4: Remove the dough from the refrigerator and let it sit for 10 to 20 minutes so it is easier to scoop.

Step 5: Preheat the oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 6: Scoop heaping tablespoon portions of dough and roll into balls. For thicker cookies, make the dough balls slightly taller than they are wide. Space evenly on the baking sheet.

Step 7: Bake for 11 to 12 minutes until the edges are set and the centers look soft. If the cookies are not spreading by minute nine, tap the baking sheet on the counter and return to the oven.

Step 8: While the cookies bake, prepare the peppermint hot fudge.

In a small saucepan, combine the chopped chocolate, sugar, heavy cream, corn syrup, cocoa powder, and salt. Warm over medium heat, stirring until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla until glossy.

Step 9: Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for five minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Drizzle each cookie with warm peppermint hot fudge and finish with crushed peppermint and a roasted marshmallow if desired.

Hosting Tips The key to a unique and festive presentation when hosting is finding beauty in the seemingly mundane.

A set of holiday mugs can be used to place candy canes in, a serving platter can be garnished with greenery, left over festive tissue boxes can be transformed to blend in with centerpieces.

Once you slow down and take in your space you may be surprised to find opportunity for magic touches all around you.

That’s what hosting is all about, presenting guests with an enjoyable experience that is unique and authentic to you.

Arianna Guerra

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COCKTAIL HOUR What’s better than sitting back and enjoying your holiday decorations with a festive drink? Here are a few of the Smith’s favorite Christmas spirits.

Sparkling Cranberry Rosé

Toasted Marshmallow Espresso Martini

Winter Wonderland Sangria

Ingredients:

Ingredients:

Ingredients:

» 3 oz rosé prosecco » 2 oz of cranberry juice » 1 oz of St. Germain (elderflower liqueur) » Fresh cranberries & rosemary for garnish

» 2 oz vodka » 1 oz fresh espresso » 1 oz coffee liqueur (Kahlúa) » ½ oz marshmallow syrup (or vanilla syrup) » Toasted marshmallow for garnish

» 2 bottles Red Blend or Pinot Noir » 6 oz triple sec » 6 oz orange juice » 1/2 cup sugar » 3 oz lime or lemon juice » 1 cup Brandy » 16 oz ginger ale » Cranberries, orange slices, lemon slices to garnish

Instructions: Mix cranberry juice and St. Germain in a flute, top with prosecco and garnish.

Instructions: Shake all ingredients with ice until frothy. Strain into a martini glass.

Garnish with a toasted marshmallow on a skewer.

Instructions: Stir all ingredients together leaving out the ginger ale.

Chill for a few hours. Add ginger ale and garnish with fruit to serve.

Pitcher sized serving

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The Lega Dorothy S

Dorothy Smith setting up one of her iconic wedding cakes.

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acy of Smith THE LEGACY OF DOROTHY SMITH

By Bryce G. Smith

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THE LEGACY OF DOROTHY SMITH

THE SWEET FOUNDATION OF FAMILY A Tribute to My Grandmother, Dorothy Smith, Woman Whose Artistry and Hospitality Shaped Generations

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here are bakers, and then there are artists. Dorothy Smith was both. Long before her cakes became Columbus legends, long before the lines formed and the phone rang nonstop, she was a young woman discovering that her gift was meant to be shared.

Her first official cake was made for her daughter and priced at just a dollar twenty five cents a slice at the time, a reflection of a different era when a young business was just beginning to bloom.

Her talent was unmistakable even then. The flavors were bold, the presentation was unlike anything people had seen at that time, cementing Dorothy as much more than a cake baker.

She was an innovator.

WHERE HER STORY BEGINS Dorothy grew up in a warm and simple home where her mother baked from scratch. The kitchen was always filled with the comforting smells of everyday cakes and the rhythm of a family that appreciated good food.

She began her own culinary journey early, making buttermilk biscuits for her father every day.

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When she met the man who would become her husband, he quickly fell in love with her biscuits too. When he asked Dorothy’s father for her hand in marriage, he famously said he could not do without her.

Dorothy wanted her gift to be more than a hobby.

At twenty five, she traveled to Chicago to attend the Wilton School of Cake Decorating and in 1956 graduated with a master’s degree in cake decorating, something few women of her time pursued at that level. She was already on her way to becoming a pioneer.

THE RISE OF AN ICON Her professional journey began at Quinn’s Cake Decorating, where she’d work for ten years.

By 1968, while pregnant with her third child, Dorothy transitioned her work to her home kitchen.

Initially she thought she may bake occasionally, but word of her one of a kind cakes spread quickly throughout the city. Soon her phone began to ring nonstop.

The demand for her cakes was immediate and overwhelming. One cake turned into several and several turned into a full scale business which she ran from her very own kitchen.

One of Many Grand Wedding Cakes Created

by Dorothy Smith.

For years, Dorothy baked three wedding cakes a week, creating a routine. Mondays were for baking and Wednesdays were for thawing and assembling in preparation for the weekend’s celebration. Many days began at five in the morning and ended long after dark. Her husband accompanied her to every wedding delivery, setting up the towering creations that became her signature.

After he passed, her children Beverly and Valance stepped in to help.

Her buttercream icing became legendary, a recipe she perfected over time. When she arrived with a wedding cake, the entire room is said to smell like a bakery. Guests could identify a Dorothy cake before they even tasted it.

A REPUTATION THAT PROCEEDS ITSELF Dorothy’s work was grand and unforgettable. Her cakes often stretched across two eight-foot tables, decorated with greenery, water fountains, pillars and even custom figures that perfectly resembled the wedding party. Her reputation for sculpting extravagant custom dessert centerpieces spread beyond her home of Columbus, Ohio. Her work was being requested all across Ohio and even into Michigan.

Some of her most notable creations that are still talked about to this day are the grandiose wedding cakes that she made for famed Ohio State Athletes which included NFL Hall of Famer Cris Carter and Former NBA player Clark Kellogg. In fact, the Kelloggs even changed the date of their wedding to be within Dorothy’s availabilty.

Their cake, served to more than My favorite cake of all time one thousand guests at the will always be my daughter Columbus Hilton Downtown Beverly’s wedding cake.

Hotel, solidified Dorothy as an artist beyond her time.

It meant the most to me as

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With an unforgettable list of highly esteemed wedding cakes under her name, you may be surprised by what she deems to be her favorite cake to date.

a mother that I could gift her a beautiful cake on one of her biggest days.

- Dorothy Smith

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A wedding cake baked and styled by Dorothy Smith.

UNRIVALED HOSPITALITY

A LASTING LEGACY

Dorothy loved hosting guests. It brought her joy.

She even hosted the church mothers from her church and once served pineapple chicken fried rice inside an actual pineapple. She made sure every guest felt welcomed, well fed and cared for.

Her hospitality created a sense of belonging that people still talk about today.

Dorothy elevated wedding cakes in Columbus to a level that had not been seen before. She created cakes that were true works of art. They did not quietly sit on display. They demanded attention. They became part of the celebration itself.

Her influence can be felt throughout the family.

Her sisters and nieces inherited her gift for cooking and entertaining. Her daughter Beverly Coleman went on to create specialty pastries and treats. Her daughter Shala Dalton carries on Beverly’s legacy in North Carolina. Her niece, Maleah Coleman, is now known for her own remarkable hosting and culinary talents.

It’s easy to see how Dorothy has had a lasting impact on those around her and inspiring generations to come.

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Her legacy also lives on in moments that appear unexpectedly. One of the most touching examples came to me when I replicated one of my grandmother’s cake recipes and a real estate client of mine was amazed to find that it tasted identical to her wedding cake, from decades ago. It turns out, Dorothy was the one who made her cake all those years ago and we were able to make that connection because after twenty years her recipe remained stellar and one of a kind. It was clear to me then that my grandmother’s artistry trancended time and created lasting joy.

Dorothy’s advice to future bakers and to all those who are determined to follow their passion is simple and rooted in her truth, she said, “You have to love it. It takes time. Starting a new business is challenging. But if you put your best foot forward and get your name out there, the business will come.”

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You have to love it.

It takes time. Starting a new business is challenging.

But if you put your best foot forward and get your name out there, the business will come.

- Dorothy Smith

HER GREATEST LEGACY Although she retired at 81, Dorothy is still sharing her favorite baking stories with her friends and family today at the age of 94.

Dorothy Smith’s legacy is more than her recipes or her cakes. It is the elegance she brought to every creation. It is the confidence she instilled in her family.

It is the way she turned gatherings into celebrations.

She is the foundation of a tradition of hospitality that continues to shape her family today. Her work was sweet, but her legacy is sweeter. Her legacy continues to live on through those who she taught and inspired, including me.

She showed me that no matter what you do, always do it with love and intention.

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COMMUNITY & HOME

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MARKET INSIGHTS

By Bryce G. Smith

Reflecting on a Year of Growth in Columbus Real Estate

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olumbus continues to stand out as one of the most resilient and fastest-growing real estate markets in the Midwest.

This year brought a combination of steady price appreciation, competitive inventory levels, and a noticeable shift in how buyers and sellers navigate the market. While interest rates held strong for much of the year, demand across Central Ohio remained consistent, fueled by population growth,

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expanding job opportunities, and a strong desire for homeownership.

Throughout 2025, buyers faced a market where options were limited but not impossible. Wellpriced homes sold quickly, especially in central suburban communities such as Pickerington, Gahanna, Westerville, and Grove City.

This caused buyers to expand their search into emerging neighborhoods and areas experiencing significant residential development.

Homes that did not evolve with buyer expectations struggled to keep pace. This shift ultimately helped elevate overall resale quality across the region.

One of the most significant forces driving the Columbus market this year was the surge in new construction. Builders across Central Ohio steadily built entire communities, offering buyers something the resale market often could not: certainty.

New homes provide fresh finishes, modern floor plans, energyefficient systems, and predictable timelines. The benefits of building a new home attracted a wide audience of buyers: Easy customization, no bidding wars, the plethora of builder incentives such as rate buy downs and closing cost assistance.

Despite the added competition, new construction brought balance to Central Ohio at a time when inventory remained low. Providing more choices for growing families, first-time homeowners, and buyers relocating to the metro area and contributing to price stability by The growth in new preventing the type of inventory shortage that drive unsustainable construction acted as a appreciation.

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ripple effect in reshaping

The growth in new construction acted as a ripple effect in reshaping the trajectory of existing home selling.

Those in search of their dream home were presented with a look into the differences between their options in real time as they toured listed homes and witnessed brand-new builds just a street away. Suddenly, resale sellers were forced to get strategic in their efforts to sell.

the trajectory of existing

An existing home being priced too aggressively or lacking updates often pushed buyers to consider a new build. Sales elements such as staging, pre-listing improvements, upgraded photography, outdoor enhancements, and thoughtful pricing became more important than ever.

into the differences

Homes that looked and felt fresh attracted solid offers quickly and homes that needed work, no matter how exquisite, sat longer than expected.

home selling.

Those in search of their dream home were presented with a look between their options in real time as they toured listed homes and witnessed brand-new builds just a street away.

In many ways, new construction raised the bar for the entire market. Buyers became more selective and less willing to compromise.

Existing homes that embraced modern design trends, offered functional layouts, and presented a move-inready experience performed extremely well.

Instead, the market steadily grew at a healthy pace, positioning buyers and sellers for long-term success.Looking ahead, Central Ohio is positioned for another year of measured growth. Experts project that inventory will gradually increase as more homeowners feel confident listing their properties.

New-construction communities will keep expanding, offering more options across a wide range of price points. Interest rates are expected to stabilize, creating a more predictable landscape for both buyers and sellers.

Columbus remains a market defined by opportunity. Whether someone is purchasing their first home, upgrading for more space, or making a strategic sale, the year ahead holds strong potential.

With continued population growth, expanding job sectors, and a thriving local economy, Central Ohio real estate continues to be a powerful place to build long-term wealth and put down roots.

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MARKET INSIGHTS

THE BREAKDOWN How New Builds Reshaped The Market This Year

By Bryce G. Smith For homeowners, future buyers, and investors alike, the message is clear. Columbus is still growing, evolving, and attracting people who see the value in living here. With the right strategy, the coming year can open the door to new beginnings and meaningful moves throughout the region.

The Market Impact New construction raised buyer expectations for design and condition, pushing sellers to be more strategic in their pricing, updates, and staging quality. The added supply of new builds aided in stabilizing prices and balancing demand for home buyers across Central, Ohio.

The Bottom Line New construction didn’t replace existing homes. It elevated the entire market. Buyers gained more options, sellers became more intentional, and Central Ohio continued to grow in a healthy, sustainable way.

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New Construction Strengths

LISTING SPOTLIGHT

» Modern floor plans that fit today’s lifestyles

A Picture Perfect Pickerington Family Home

» Energy-efficient systems lowering monthly costs » Builder incentives: rate buy downs and closing cost credits » Fewer bidding wars and more predictable timelines

A beautiful home designed for a growing family, tucked into a welcoming neighborhood you’ll love to call your own.

Beds: 4 Baths: 4 Square Feet: 3,831 Garage: 2.5 car

Features: Upstairs Loft Second Floor Laundry Finished Basement

School District: Pickerington City Schools City: Pickerington, OH

» Customizable finishes that match personal style

Existing Home Advantages » Established neighborhoods with mature landscaping » Larger lots and unique architectural character » Faster move-in times and fewer upfront deposits » Opportunity to build equity through updates »

Often located closer to city centers and schools

7181 Fenwick Street NW, Pickerington, Ohio For more information on Central Ohio listings, visit BryceSellsColumbus.com or scan the QR Code.

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MARKET INSIGHTS

BRYCE’S BRIEFING What to Expect in 2026 and Why Columbus is Still Growing 2026 Market Predictions » Inventory is expected to rise slowly as homeowners gain confidence » New construction activity will continue across Pickerington, Canal Winchester, Hilliard, and Plain City » Price growth should remain steady and predictable. » Homes that feel move in ready will continue to lead the market.

Finance Trends to Watch » Rate buy downs will remain an important tool for buyers and sellers. » Down payment assistance programs are likely to expand across Central Ohio. » Local lenders will play a key role in helping buyers understand incentives and find the best loan options.

Why Columbus Keeps Growing & What that Means for HomeBuyers Central Ohio’s job opportunities across the healthcare, technology, logistics, and higher education industry are booming, attracting professionals and their families from higher cost cities to take advantage of the competitive cost of living.

The increase in population is prompting new development of neighborhoods, parks, restaurants, and local amenities each year and in turn supporting long term homeownership. With the wide range of options from historic homes to suburban communities to brand new builds, Columbus has something for everybody to love.

As Columbus continues to rise, the coming year offers more balance, opportunity, and paths for buyers and sellers to make confident decisions. With thoughtful planning and a clear understanding of the market, 2026 can be a strong and rewarding year in Central Ohio real estate.

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BUILDING FOUNDATIONS MAGAZINE

Local Business Spotlight

THE PICKERINGTON DANCE STUDIO STRIVING FOR EXCELLENCE

By Arianna Guerra

An Unwaivering Passion As children, when asked what we want to be when we grow up the reply seldom stays the same.

Throughout the years as we become adults and our dreams change and our aspirations shift, but for Kaelyn Bowens, her answer has always remained the same. It was always her dream to share her love of dance.

Her journey with dance began at the young age of three, when her mother enrolled her in traditional dance classes.

In just a few years it would become clear that dancing was not just a hobby for her, it was quickly an artform that she’d find joy and self-expression in.

By high school, she was already an awarded competitive dancer in tap, jazz, lyrical, hip-hop, and ballet, and had traveled as far as California to train and compete.

From Student to Teacher Once graduating high school, Kaelyn had transformed her dream as a little girl into an organized longterm plan where she would eventually have a dance studio to call her very own. The plan that was set into motion involved her teaching part-time at a local dance studio as she pursued a Bachelor’s Degree of Marketing & Communications with a Minor in Dance at The Ohio State University.

With the plans in place the only thing left for her to do was work, learn, and stay the course.

And stay the course she did. In early 2025, she became the owner of Strive Dance Academy in Pickerington, Ohio. The dance studio is the very one that she had taught at for six years, previously named Pickerington Dance Academy.

Upon the owner’s retirement, Kaelyn carried the torch, excited to inspire the next generation of young dancers.

Strive Dance Academy Strive Dance Academy’s motto is Striving For Excellence, a special reminder to all who enter that through work, determination, and discipline they too can achieve their dreams. A space filled with family, learning and growing, there’s something for everyone.

Kaelyn saw Pickerington as the best location for a studio because of it’s potential to continue growing and the great community that she has found here. So far, Strive Dance Academy has been able to participate in local parades and community events.

To anyone who is looking to go out on a limb and follow their passion of becoming a business owner, Kaelyn’s advice is to “Take the risks, do the research, and have the passion for whatever it is you’re pursuing.”

To keep up with Strive Dance Academy in Pickerington, Ohio follow them on Facebook and IG @StriveDanceAcademy.

BUILDING FOUNDATIONS MAGAZINE

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BUILDING YOUR NEXT FOUNDATION A final message on embracing change, gratitude, and the timeless beauty of building a life you love.

The name Building Foundations carries purpose. It is about building something strong. It is about finding or creating a solid foundation under you so you can build the life you dream of living. It is about learning the things no one ever taught you, developing new skills, elevating your lifestyle, and surrounding yourself with people who inspire you to grow. Building Foundations is not just about homes. It is about you. Your growth. Your confidence. Your journey. Your life.

This magazine exists to guide you in every part of that journey. Whether you are stepping into your first apartment, settling into a new home, or refining the one you love, these pages offer inspiration that feels attainable, personal, and rooted in real life.

We celebrate the beauty of Columbus, its neighborhoods, and the people who give this city its heart. From the historic charm of German Village to the energy of new construction communities rising across Central Ohio, Columbus is a place where old and new blend effortlessly and where opportunity continues to expand.

As we close another year and step into a new one, we hope these pages encourage you to look at your home and your life with fresh eyes. Celebrate where you are. Honor where you have been. And get excited for what you are building next.

Thank you for welcoming Building Foundations into your home and into your story.

This is just the beginning. Here’s to building a foundation that carries you through every season of life.

-The Building Foundations Team

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The Building Foundations Team From Left: Arianna Guerra, Kenji Smith, Bryce Smith, Monica Smith.

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COLUMBUS. “The right advice could help you find the right mortgage for you.

Let's work together.”

About Peggy Halbrook

Peggy Halbrook Originating Manager NMLS: 228714

Phone: (614) 420-6871 Email: peggy.halbrook@grarate.com

Peggy uses her 35 years of diverse mortgage industry experience within every aspect of the lending process to help clients with their home purchase.

Her in-depth knowledge of originations, processing, underwriting and closing defines her customer service focus. With this varied knowledge, Peggy provides thorough service and guidance that builds trust and confidence, and helps her clients close fast. Mortgages are the only business she’s ever known, and she’s as passionate about it now as the day she started, building her business by giving homebuyers honest, straightforward advice and service. When she’s not helping clients, Peggy is active in the community as a member of the Columbus Board of Realtors Foundation and the Muscular Dystrophy Association. She is the proud mother of two daughters, has three granddaughters, and enjoys spending free time vacationing, going to the beach, golfing and supporting her LSU Tigers.

01234 56789 0123 Scan to explore Peggy’s website and learn more.