SEP | OCT
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Ber aro tugh —48—
BEAUTY
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SEP | OCT
Beauty Editor Jessica McCafferty
When science meets beauty, amazing breakthroughs happen. Whether it is a new delivery system or a first in the industry, smarter products are taking skincare and makeup to the next level. These latest innovations prove beauty is never boring.
Skincare
1
—49— SEP | OCT
Vitabrid C12 Dual Serum $75 from www.barneys.com
Featuring an innovative twist-to-mix bottle, this K-beauty serum’s advanced design allows the two separate skincare serums enclosed in each bottle (one yellow, one clear) to be freshly mixed together upon opening. Offering stabilized, active vitamin C and peptides, they are mixed only prior to use to activate the ingredients for optimal results and freshness. The formula has a significant anti-aging and anti-wrinkle effect while keeping the skin thoroughly hydrated.
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3
HUM Nutrition Collagen Pop $30 for a 30-day supply from www.humnutrition.com Collagen Pop is the first dissolvable collagen tablet that creates gorgeous-looking skin on-the-go without the mess and inconvenience of powders. It contains two key ingredients: premium marine collagen peptides and vitamin C. Made from the highest quality, most absorbable form of collagen, it transforms water into a delicious, pink beauty tonic.
iderma® Youth Restoring Masque™ $279 from www.idermaskincare.com
As the most advanced full coverage LED light treatment product, this masque uses low-level light therapy (LLLT) to improve your overall complexion and reduce the appearance of uneven skin tone and enlarged pores for skin that looks fresh and more youthful.
Makeup
4
FIXY Makeup Repair and Creation Kit $48 from www.fixymakeup.com
Featuring a blending box, grinding tool, makeup press, and an all-natural based binding spray, this broken makeup repair kit includes everything you need to take your powders from pulverized to pressed. Whether you’re fixing eye shadow, blush, or highlighter, FIXY has got you covered.
5
Nuest Cosmetics Magical Jelly Highlighter $28 from www.nuestcosmetics.com Available in five shades, this holographic gel glides on with ease and creates an extra dewy glow. The fresh, bouncy texture can be used all over the face and body to highlight and create standout shine. The innovative jelly shimmies and shakes, offering concentrated pigmentation from pearl and mica-based shimmers. Nuest’s unique jelly texture also features a self-smoothing memory-form with a water-based, quick-drying formula to leave skin feeling fresh and comfortable.
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One Two Lash® Magnetic Eyelashes $59 from www.onetwocosmetics.com As the world’s first magnetic false lash, One Two Lash® is available in six styles, including accent, half-lash, and full coverage options. The breakthrough alternative to messy, damaging, and time-consuming glue-on falsies, the line’s patented micro-magnet technology makes the brand not just the first, but also the only magnetic extensions of their kind.
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High Profile Director of Physician Services, Education & Marketing Santé Health System Janine Stephenson Features Editor Ann T. Sullivan Whitehurst
Santé Community Physicians was established in 1995, with the Santé Health Foundation officially being established as a division under the Affordable Care Act in 2012. The network itself is made up of affiliated physicians dedicated to providing exceptional service and healthcare to the communities of Fresno, Madera, and Kings Counties. The Foundation, however, is a non-profit organization aimed to improve the health of the people in those communities by providing outstanding clinical care, encouraging healthy lifestyles, offering clinical and community health education, and supporting clinical research. The Foundation is a partner of Community Medical Centers, located in Fresno County.
Janine Stephenson, the Santé Health Foundation’s Director of Physician Services, Education & Marketing, was born in Marysville, California on November 28th, but she grew up in Anchorage, Alaska—her father was an ice trucker there. In the 8th grade, her family moved to California and settled in Clovis, where she attended Clovis West High School. Janine recalled that the shock of moving from Alaska to California went beyond the obvious change of weather, and daytime and night length. “There was no emphasis on fashion or name brands!” Janine said of her early childhood up north, so attending Clovis West and living in the Central Valley was a major culture shock for her. Suddenly she was faced with the reality that what you drove and what you wore had an importance that she never considered before. But this new perspective allowed her to develop a sense of style that is now synonymous with her look. Janine started collecting vintage jewelry, especially from the 20s, 50s, and 60s— she has an affinity for Art Deco and Mid-Century Modern design, and enamel, and enjoys adding pieces to her extensive collection, which she wears regularly! After graduating from high school, she began her career as a Claims Examiner for Cigna Health Insurance, where she worked for eight years. At the age of 35, she went back to school to obtain her degree in Marketing and Business Management from the University of Phoenix. It was a busy time for Janine—she was still working full-time, and went to school at night to complete her degree. Shortly after graduating, she continued to work at Santé and eventually worked her way up into her current position in the Santé Health Foundation. True to her astrological zodiac, Janine shows Sagittarian signs of being honest and forthright in everything she does. Her standards are high, but she can enjoy a good joke—it is this love of fun with a vibrant personality that makes her very popular with others.
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Janine loves animals, especially her golden retriever, Max, who is 13 years old. Spending time with him and being outdoors gives her immense enjoyment. Janine is also into sports, and three or four times a week she tries to attend classes at The Bar Method in Fresno. A big fan of Danish singer Agnes Obel, Janine loves to put on the artist’s music and pour herself a glass of wine—her favorite varieties are Pinot Noir and White Burgundy, the later of which she discovered while on vacation in Europe. When it comes to travel, Janine’s favorite city (outside of the United States) is Florence. “I love the people there!” she mused of her time spent in Italy. Its abundance of rich art, architecture, shopping, friendly people, and wonderful food makes it one of her favorite places to go. Janine has brought some interesting and well-attended events to the Central Valley through the Santé Health Foundation. The “Santé Health Foundation Gala” fundraiser is the Foundation’s largest, and is held annually in the spring—this year’s theme was An Evening Abroad. “Healthy Living” hosted the “Expression of Art Series for Seniors,” which gives senior citizens a creative outlet through painting. The “Healthy Living Expo” promoted healthy children and happy families through educational information with over 1,000 participants. And “Women Helping Women” organized a 2-mile walk with guest speakers and a luncheon, for around 240 attendees, in an effort to help remind women of how important their health is and to teach them to be their own good advocates in healthcare. This executive exudes charm, humor, energy, and friendliness when you are with her in any given setting, whether it be a lunch for two or dinner with over 800 people. With all of this positive energy, one can only complement Janine and enjoy the talent, enthusiasm, and creativity she brings to any event that she is involved in making happen!
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—58— SEP | OCT
SHAKE +STIR HOSTED AT ELBOW ROOM BAR & GRILL Managing Editor Lauren Barisic Photographer Don Dizon
T
he Elbow Room Bar & Grill has been one of Fresno’s most popular watering holes since 1955, and is living proof that a great tradition can evolve into a better version of perfection. Chef de Cuisine Eric Rodriguez’s food is so much more than just a meal—it’s a culinary experience. One that is made all the more outstanding when complimented by General Manager Daniel McGee’s terrific staff. This accumulation of excellence resulted in the eighth edition of Shake+Stir being the most above and beyond to date. Hosted by CVLUX’s Donna Ensom, Dr. Shannon Barnhart, Genelle Taylor Kumpe, Kelly Lilles, Roseanne Guaglianone, and Lisa Bonadelle had the opportunity to sample the latest menu revisions in the form of four courses with accompanying cocktail pairings, which are destined to be your go-to favorites as this Indian summer persists. Situated on the northern end of Fig Garden Village, Elbow Room’s offerings include more than one of the best patios in town. Their Private Banquet Facilities come with a separate Banquet Menu that makes planning a breeze. Three room options are available: the Banquet Room (seats 48), the Vineyard Patio (seats 70), and the Wine Cellar (seats 20). As the ladies took their seats in the Wine Cellar, something about a video of Kelly dancing had everyone buzzing… “Oh, I watched it four times!” exclaimed David Manning, CVLUX’s Editor in Chief. The room is lined with windows exposing Elbow Room’s extensive wine selection, and is overseen by the kitchen where Chef Eric creates his masterful plates—very intimate. Up to 20 guests can be served as many as six courses, and tastings can be arranged where parties can sample dishes (in 1/3 scale) with complementing cocktails.
—60— SEP | OCT
While Elbow Room is known for its artisan style, Chef Eric explained that he encompasses the five components of an award-winning dish (height, color, flavor, texture, and profile) when he creates “a fancy comfort dish, but it’s healthy!” Plus, he loves to take advantage of the Central Valley’s seasonal produce, and he gets a kick out of “attacking your senses” with his food. It was revealed that this was not Genelle and Kelly’s first experience with the chef. “He likes to take care of his guests,” Genelle began to sing Chef Eric’s praises, making the anticipation all the more fervent as he came out to explain the first course. The Herb Crusted Lamb Loin Atop Wilted Spinach and Red Butter Lettuce salad is tossed in juniper red wine vinaigrette with feta, halved red cherries, and European cucumber slices. “Tender. Loved the herb-crust. And wellseasoned. It left me wanting another bite,” said Shannon. The first cocktail out was the Cucumber Basil Martini, also known as “liquid salad!” Well put, Kelly…very well put. The Botanist Gin, StGermaine Liqueur, fresh lime juice, and a splash of agave nectar, muddled with cucumber and basil was so tasty that Shannon grabbed the photo-op drink for herself. Most are familiar with this feeling—knowing you’re full but can’t stop eating because it’s just so good. The Portobello and Porcini Ravioli will be your next experience with that conundrum, which Lisa clearly understood. “I’d absolutely order this! I’ll just work out a little more.” The pasta pillows are served in a sweet vermouth broth with asparagus spears and wild mushrooms, then finished with thinly-sliced, crispy leeks, shaved Parmigiano-Reggiano, and fresh chervil. Seriously, divine. The Grapefruit Dropped Martini is a mixture of Ketel One Botanical Grapefruit Rose, St-Germaine Liqueur, fresh grapefruit juice, a splash of agave nectar, and served in a sugar-rimmed glass. “I could have a pitcher of that!” Genelle eagerly shared. If you’re a shellfish coinsurer, the Diver Scallops Wrapped in Brown Sugar and Black Peppered Applewood-Smoked Bacon is a must-try. “They are seared perfectly,” Lisa and Shannon agreed. This is the benchmark for
flawless scallop preparation—fork-tender, with a butter-like sensation. Served over a bed of red quinoa, grilled peaches and mixed vegetables complement the dish brilliantly, and the drizzle of bourbon peach glaze is a wonderful finishing touch. The California Smoked Sour goes down easier than its whiskey sour cousin. Woodford Reserve Bourbon, fresh lemon juice, agave nectar, and a dash of bitters are served in a hand-smoked glass, and topped with a frothy egg white. “It’s strong, but I like it. There’s a little bit of bite at the end,” observed Kelly. Honestly, it looks like beer, and you can indeed smell a hoppiness—but only in the best way. Roseanne offered that it tasted “kinda like a persimmon with a nice bitterness.” “The flavors in this one are going to rock you!” Chef Eric proclaimed as the Seared Alaskan Halibut was brought to the table. It’s served over a tomato saffron broth with cannellini beans, asparagus, applewood-smoked lardons, and accompanied by steamed caulifini (i.e. the lovechild of cauliflower and brocolini). “If I wasn’t so full, I’d eat the whole thing,” admitted Kelly of what was deemed the best fish dish in everyone’s recent memory. Don’t let the Blueberry Bliss cocktail’s name fool you—it’s actually pink. Tito’s Vodka, fresh lime juice, agave nectar, and a bit of lavender is muddled with blueberries and basil, creating a lovely speckling of greenery. “You initially taste the basil,” Genelle explained, “then the sweet and sour comes through.” Though the ladies had difficulty deciding which dish was the evening’s favorite, they easily identified fall traditions they were looking forward to continuing. All things Halloween (decorations, costumes, parties) immediately took the top slot, with the return of the PSL not far behind. Family, friendship, and food are at the center of those upcoming festivities. Elbow Room has fostered the perfect concoction of exceptional staff, a fantastic environment, and outstanding food at the hands of a gifted chef, and the latest menu additions fit seamlessly into that repertoire of incoming autumn cuisine faves. So instead of picking only one to try, just come into Elbow Room with the intention of coming back to sample the other new dishes.
Autumn Splendor
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AE G (less)
Photographer Ellie Koleen with Ellie Koleen Photography Managing Editor Lauren Barisic Makeup Juan Salcedo with Luxe Salon & Spa Hair Anna K. Peters with re:TREAT color+hair design studio
20s —80— SEP | OCT
s
—82— SEP | OCT
If you ask a 20-something about their priorities in this life era, most will give you an answer along the lines of, “The twenties are for me!” Ellena Woodhams isn’t your typical 20-something. The young Marketing Director of Fresno Acura, Mercedes-Benz of Modesto, Modesto Subaru, and Honda of Morgan Hill has squarely positioned philanthropy at the core of her wellness mantra. Add in a yoga class, trying new eats, a pool, nature, home-sweet-home, Mario Badescu, green tea, and a bi-weekly manicure and you have Elle’s recipe for early adult wellness.
Spread the joy. Elle was raised in the business of car dealerships, but she had no intentions of joining the family business until her mother asked her to come start something new right after she graduated from California State University, Fresno—she obtained her degree in International Business, but had a natural knack for marketing. “Our company didn’t have a true Marketing Department before I joined the ranks. I’ve been able to grow personally while building our public image and recognizable campaigns to what they are today.” She is referring to over a dozen outreach projects that touch the communities of their family-run dealerships, stretching as far north as Morgan Hill. “Working in a family business means that my job is a direct reflection of how I was raised, and the person I have come to be today. I spend a majority of my time on the Marketing and Public Relations side of things, so I’m usually out in the community working on various philanthropic projects. Being able to spread a little joy or love every day is truly a gift.” Working in working-out. Running all things marketing for four dealerships across California keeps Elle busy. Yoga is part of her solution to maintaining sanity post-graduation. “Graduating from Fresno State meant that I would no longer have a consistent workout routine as a student athlete. I had to adjust my habits to fit my new lifestyle ... My favorite place to workout is now the yoga studio. I feel like I can actually breathe and ground myself before I have to rejoin the crazy, hectic schedule I keep every day.” Foodie adventures. Part of what fulfills Elle in her personal time is a passion for food. “I love being able to cook and try new recipes on my own. My boyfriend is a good sport and always tries my concoctions without hesitation. We live in the Tower District, so we’re able to discover new cultural cuisines from restaurants and food trucks in downtown Fresno or Gazebo Gardens. Whether it’s a brick-and-mortar establishment or on four wheels, we are always up for a new culinary adventure. Balance and moderation is key when it comes to food choices.” Poolside happiness. While happiness is oftentimes served on a plate, Elle never underestimates the power of family time…and a pool. “In this Fresno
heat, happiness is a nice, refreshing pool. For me, fill that pool with my family and closest friends and I couldn’t be happier. Maybe add in a refreshing beverage.” The call of the wild. And when the pool isn’t enough… “Head into nature! Whether it’s the mountains or the beach, my happy place is where I have no cell service. We are so fortunate to live in a place like the Central Valley and be so close to the majestic Sierra Nevadas and the Pacific Ocean. I spent a lot of my childhood in the mountains, so I’m definitely partial to the wilderness.” When in home. “If I’m at home, I have one of those gel eye masks that you can keep in the freezer. I love being able to put that on and follow it with a Mario Badescu facial mask. I might occasionally indulge in a glass of champagne to pair with the duo.” At the ready. Speaking of Mario Badescu, Elle uses are more than one of his products, as well as a daily spritz of scent and a bit of green goodness: 1. Mario Badescu Glycolic Foaming Cleanser 2. Yves Saint Laurent Black Opium fragrance 3. Starbucks Teavana® Shaken Unsweetened Green Tea Manicure-all. You wouldn’t know that Elle is a nature girl by the way she presents her person—with mile-high legs and a polished aesthetic, this woman values every second of the “me time” she makes. “There is nothing better than my bi-weekly ritual of getting my nails done. I’m not allowed to have my phone for the majority of the time and I’ve definitely fallen asleep in the salon chair before.” Now or never. “Don’t wait until you are ‘ready.’ There is only now, and now is as good a time as any. So, get to work!”
3 —84— SEP | OCT
driven ambitious approachable
—87— SEP | OCT
RPM abbreviates more than just revolutions per minute—it’s also Rae Pardini Matson’s initials. Befitting, considering that the new mom and founder of RPM Public Relations is always functioning at full capacity. Everything she does puts her family first, and she considers both her clients and employees as family. Sex and the City’s infamous publicist, Samantha Jones, claimed, “Your 30s are to learn the lessons.” Each life decade brings new lessons, but it’s safe to say that Rae has already mastered one of the greatest struggles for working women: being present. By practicing holistic wellness, she is an example to women everywhere.
A point of connection.
Food is fuel.
PR was a natural career choice for Rae. “I’ve always enjoyed connecting people; introducing mutual friends and family, with hopes for them to build a relationship in some way. I feel that translates to what I do. I love making connections for my clients—whether that’s through the media, social media, brand partnerships, or community efforts. Seeing those relationships blossom is EVERYTHING.”
Extensive food-allergy testing revealed that Rae has sensitivities to gluten, dairy, eggs, soy, sugar, and some nuts. “I know it sounds like a daunting task to eat that clean, but having our client Model Meals and being familiar with the Whole30 lifestyle has been super helpful … I was extremely diligent in eating clean, whole foods, and found that I felt amazing, had endless amounts of energy and I was way more productive with my thinking and decision-making.” So when temptation comes calling, “I overcome my wellness struggles by reminding myself of how good I feel, and how much more productive I am, when I eat clean and exercise regularly … Food of course is my fuel, and I’d be lying if I said I ate that clean every day. I do indulge every once in a while...everything in moderation, right?!”
Thoughts on 30s. When Rae turned 30, she found that her priorities instantly shifted. “My friend Teni Karapetian told me years ago, ‘The 20s are mine.’ That really resonated with me … They were a time to be selfish, a time to find my life partner, and a time to explore my career. Now in my 30s, and having our baby girl when I was 30 years old, has completely changed my perspective on life. Every decision I make in life I now think about how that could impact my husband, my daughter, my family, my business...” Having it all means being present. “There’s this huge misconception that as a working mom you can ‘have it all,’ and in this new season of life as a mama, I’m really trying to work on being present—both at work and at home … I don’t want my daughter to grow up always seeing her mommy on her phone or laptop. Really taking the time to give those around you 100% of yourself is what I’m really trying to work on.” Rae makes herself be present by diligently living by her calendar. “If it’s not on my calendar, it’s not happening. I even schedule personal time on my calendar for self-care.” Well-rounded. For Rae, self-care is the key to balance, which allows wellness to thrive. “My wellness routine includes morning meditations, trying to eat clean (keyword: trying), hydrating, taking my daily vitamins and probiotics, and exercising daily (Bar Method, HIGH Fitness, or RIDE54 cycling classes) … The Calm meditation app has been life-changing for me … As much as I would love to meditate every morning and workout every day at the same time, those luxuries change when you have a baby … But, I will say—no matter what, you can ALWAYS make time for yourself.” At least once a week, Rae tries to take an Epsom Salt bath. “It helps excrete toxins, and is super relaxing. It’s a treat for me!”
Prep for success. One thing’s certain—Rae knows how to stay ahead of the game, and that even translates to her choice of products. She swears by these items to be her best self: 1. Arbonne Advanced Prepwork Gel Eye Masks; “Thanks to my sister/ Arbonne rep Alicia Fisher! You’d never know I had a sleepless night.” 2. Ice; “After you’ve washed your face, take a cube of ice and massage your face. It helps suppress inflammation and feels amazing. I do this nightly.” 3. Drybar Dry Shampoo Community over competition. This blonde is already known for always looking fantastic, but she hopes to “leave a legacy that’s all about community over competition. I hope those will remember me as someone who strongly believes that if you manifest your goals and work hard, you can achieve them, no matter what life’s circumstances dish you.” Just ask. “My mentor, friend, and former boss, Genelle Taylor Kumpe, gave me the best advice. She told me, ‘It never hurts to ask, the worst thing they could say is no.’ That … really stuck with me since starting and building my business. You never know what people are going through and where they want to be...unless you ask.”
40s —88— SEP | OCT
loud reliable happy
s
—92— SEP | OCT
Margot Kim is the epitome of 40 and fabulous. As one of the most recognizable faces on the local news, the anchorwoman and mom of two teenage daughters is seriously one of the happiest, bubbliest people you could ever meet. “Happiness is loving and being loved,” and is clearly the common thread in Margot’s wellness recipe. Well, almost… Happiness is also “our dog, coffee every morning, and all-you-can-eat seafood,” in addition to chips, K-Beauty, and lashes!
In-the-know.
K-Beauty from the beginning.
Working in the news caters to Margot’s personality seamlessly. “Journalism lets me ‘be nosy’ and ‘be in-the-know’ at the same time! I’m naturally inquisitive and love to tell stories … every day is different in broadcast news because it reflects the range of human experience and emotion. It’s such a privilege … to provide a public service of information that can enlighten, inspire, and even activate the community.”
A healthy relationship with food isn’t the only wellness factor Margot’s mom imparted upon her. “I also do a nightly face-washing and moisturizing routine that’s now known as trendy: Korean beauty. Honey, I’ve been doing Korean beauty since my tween years, when my mom taught me how to take care of my skin.” She also does “A weekly mask (dual purposes: scares the kids AND clears the skin).”
Let’s face it. Becoming a prime-time news anchorwoman is a major accomplishment. Period. But becoming a prime-time news anchorwoman as a minority is a colossal accomplishment. “There was a time when I rarely saw a face like mine on TV news. But then a few women broke through the ceiling and the screen and inspired me to become a journalist. I hope I’m an example for young girls, of any background, to pursue their goals in broadcasting or any career.” Chaos, calm, and cocktails. Balancing Margot’s crazy professional and personal life is something she’s constantly striving to perfect—she credits her husband of 19 years as the glue that holds it together. “My husband helps me balance the craziness of both worlds! He’s been my support while I worked any and every shift (from early mornings to late nights) in many jobs, in many cities. And he’s an equal partner at home with our family.” Margot explained that when she used to work the shifts that required her to be in the studio by 3 A.M., she’d leave in time to pick up the kids from school—it wasn’t until the girls were older that they finally asked their mom if she worked. “They had nooo idea!” Through that time, Margot learned the necessity of self-care. “I’ve also become better at taking time for myself to recharge. Cocktails also help.” Indulgence makes the heart grow fonder. So do chips. “I never met a chip I didn’t like. And reality TV.” But she does “eat healthy most of the time and everything in moderation. I don’t deny myself treats and snacks…just not the whole bag!” Saying Margot loves food is an understatement. “Food IS LIFE! I’m so thankful I was raised in a home where food is the expression of love and togetherness. I hope I’m passing onto my daughters a healthy relationship with food, like my mother passed on to me.”
Necessary luxuries. Margot also relies on a few necessary luxuries to accomplish perfection: 1. A derma-roller; “I’ve used it every other night after washing my face and before applying moisturizers, for YEARS.” 2. Sunscreen; “Admittedly not until after my 20s.” 3. “And honey…lash extensions.” Wellness is a marathon, not a sprint. When it comes to being physically fit, Margot prefers some variety. “I work out five days a week at Dre36. It’s high intensity interval training in a 36-minute circuit that changes every few weeks. The variety is motivating! … I used to go through spurts of diet and exercise, hitting it hard then slowing down. Now, I’m more consistent after realizing wellness (like the saying goes) is a marathon, not a sprint.” Reflect and move forward. “With age comes appreciation. I’m thankful for where I am in life, instead of (when I was younger) wishing I was doing more. My family is healthy, I’m able to provide for them with a career that’s rewarding, and my parents are still going strong…I’m so lucky.” As she looks back at over 25 years in TV news, she’s more confident of her value. “It helps me see the ‘bigger picture’ of my career and not sweat the small stuff or what I can’t control. I think that happens to many women in the workplace, as we gain experience and assert ourselves. Know your worth!” Just do it. “A journalism mentor once told me to ‘be the first to say, I’ll do it!’ … Saying, ‘I’ll do it!’ internally and out loud makes you indispensable.”
50s —94— SEP | OCT
fearless seasoned visionary
s
—96— SEP | OCT
Turning 50 is often a game-changer—you’re halfway to 100! While that can be a daunting idea for some, Jennifer Kasparian looked at it as time to shake up her usual with a career change. Today, as owner of The Bar Method in Fresno and Clovis, Jenny’s studios are the physical manifestation of her lifelong search for total wellness, inside and out. Finding balance for the whole self, with her daughter and dog by her side, facial masks, and a clean diet (red wine and dark chocolate included) are the keys to Jenny’s well-seasoned wellness model.
From then to now. “I was a registered nurse working in labor and delivery for 25 years … and I started to feel some burnout, so I decided to try something I had passion for at 50 years old … I literally knew nothing about business! I knew about people, relationships, and keeping fit—there definitely has been a learning curve.” Jenny opened Fresno’s first Bar Method in 2013, but it wasn’t without its growing pains. “I have learned from my mistakes and it has definitely been on-the-job training!” In 2016, the mother of two opened a second Bar Method location in Clovis. Opening The Bar Methods married some of Jenny’s favorite things together. “I have always paid attention to fitness and fashion! I try to stay in the best shape I can for my age. Style and aesthetics are very important to me and I like my studios to reflect this … Plus, it was something I could do with my oldest daughter, Lauren.” Becoming balanced. Jenny’s story is one of ever-evolving balance. “I think I have become less obsessed with fitness and health than before—it’s important, but it’s not the most important thing in life; helping a friend, reading a book, solving a problem, sitting with a parent are all equally important … It is about your inner peace and satisfaction with how you are living and less about how your body looks.” Her formula for maintaining balance begins within. “I try to start every day with reading the Bible and doing a devotion—it shifts my thinking from selfishness to others.” What “total body” really means. The Bar Method’s “total body” experience is Jenny’s own wellness ideal. “I hope to impart an importance of a ‘total body’ effect on a client—that means being physically, emotionally, and spiritually balanced! Missing a workout is not the end of the world—call a friend, pray, do a devotion, talk to a counselor, bring someone food. There are so many things that make us healthy and happy! I tell my daughter [Lauren] all the time, ‘Working out is just a part of our daily life. It isn’t our whole life, so it’s okay to miss a workout and lie in bed to watch a Lifetime movie today!’”
sometimes we fail to realize the therapy pets provide!” Also, “Facial masks! I love them. I do this in this order: 1. Rodan+Fields REDEFINE Daily Cleansing Mask 2. Sisley Paris Botanical Floral Toning Lotion 3. Cle de Peau Beauté Intensive Brightening Mask (leave on eight minutes) 4. Sisley Paris Black Rose Cream Masque (a few times a week, used after toning)” The routine. “I try to do The Bar Method 4-5 times a week. I also like to walk. I have tried many other workouts, but I prefer The Bar Method because the workout is efficient and total body in just one hour. I’m not vegan anymore, but I eat healthy and clean 95% of the time, with red wine and dark chocolate being my cheats! I believe food impacts your skin as well. Skincare is super important, so I try to stay hydrated and moisturized also. I also drink hot lemon water.” Food for thought. Jenny opened up about the relationship she has with food, which she called “tumultuous … I was raised that ‘food cures all’ in my [Armenian] culture. When I was a teenager, I experienced a bout with anorexia. I stopped eating and became obsessed with being thin. When I got married and pregnant with my first child, I completely stopped this destructive behavior. I can’t say I have no struggles with body image— don’t we all? I have just learned that we are really fine give or take five pounds, we are the same person and it has little effect on our life. Being thin is not the answer! Develop other areas of your being and you will see this is a truth.” Seasoned and aged to perfection. What word best describes her? “‘Seasoned’ is my word choice! Hindsight is 20/20. This is something you only get as you age. Embrace this and share this with others younger than you. They may listen, they may not, but it’s worth sharing!”
Daily delights.
You’ve gotta feel it.
Working with Lauren is one of the best parts of Jenny’s day, but what else brings her daily joy? “Definitely my dog, Tucker—anyone that is close to their pet understands the power animals have on our life. I think
“Someone once told me, ‘They may forget what you said, but they will never forget how you made them feel.’ This is truth and I fall short often, but this is my standard to live. I believe this 100%.”
s 60 —98— SEP | OCT
honest persistent dedicated
—101— SEP | OCT
The 60s may be the start of the golden years for some, but Gladys Morris has no intention of stopping now—she desires to “paint the world a more beautiful place, one face at a time.” With positive affirmations and quiet meditation on scripture, her spirit is rejuvenated daily. The virtually wrinkle-free Sales Director for Mary Kay® has been married to her high school sweetheart and best friend for 44 years, with whom she practices all aspects of wellness, from diet and exercise to devotions.
Safety to grow. Achieving the position of Sales Director (which make up only 2% of Mary Kay® employees) didn’t happen overnight. “When I began 13 years ago, I was shy and lacked confidence. I have been able to develop business and leadership skills. My career has allowed me a safe environment in which to grow personally while growing a viable business. I find myself a much more confident person today.” Today, Gladys feels it is an “honor to mentor, train, and lead 40 amazing women.” Philosophy and flexibility. Gladys lives by the same philosophy that Mary Kay lived by: God first, family second, and career third. “I have a great deal of flexibility in my business. I have developed certain routines in my profession that take into consideration my personal priorities … I have built into my schedule times for spiritual wholeness, family time, and work. However, when going for a really big goal or dream there may seem to be no balance. These are usually times when my husband and I take a look at the bigger picture and support each other in achieving something that will greatly benefit our long-term dreams…so we agree on a short-term sacrifice for a long-term gain.” The power of “we.” “Having a partner really makes a difference.” Gladys and her husband realized a need to focus on their overall well-being, both individually and as a couple, so they looked for things that would support their physical, mental, and spiritual health that they’d enjoy and could do together. “Three times a week my husband and I attend a water aerobics class in the morning before we get on with our work routines. Every evening before bed we will do a 10-minute goodnight yoga routine, and read a chapter together of a spiritually enlightening book or recite a scripture passage we are memorizing. Then we end the night with prayers of thanksgiving and gratitude. We found this routine greatly enhances our relationship with God, each other, as well as family and friends. Our routine took shape slowly and grew into a routine we value, and has made us stronger together and individually.” Un po-keto bit more healthy. “We decided we wanted to be proactive about our health when we found ourselves gaining unwanted weight, feeling bloated and sluggish, and found out we were both pre-diabetic. We did a little research and started
eliminating soda and sugary drinks. Under a doctor’s care, we curbed the carbs for about a month, which helped to improve our blood sugar levels. Afterwards, we moved to a keto-style diet, and added exercise and vitamin supplements to maintain our improved health.” Gladys found that they didn’t feel restricted by their diet plan because they simply made choices that fit their goals with a diet that was made up of foods they enjoyed already. Mary Kay® all the way. A loyal believer in her product, Gladys uses a complete Mary Kay® regiment: 1. TimeWise Repair® Ultimate Volu-Firm® Set; “Morning and evening. It’s a must since it keeps my skin soft, hydrated, resilient, and virtually wrinkle-free.” 2. Mary Kay® Oil Free Eye Makeup Remover; “Takes off my eye makeup in a snap and keeps me from having raccoon eyes.” 3. Mary Kay® Foundation Primer Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 15; “I absolutely can’t do without it.” Pamper yourself. “I enjoy getting a pedicure once or twice a month. Just relaxing in the massaging chair and maybe napping a little. Every once in a while, I will slip into my soaker tub with one of my TimeWise Repair® BioCellulose Masks on and just relax and unwind. Every now and then, my husband will get me comfortable, put on a girly movie I haven’t seen that he thinks I’ll like while he soaks and massages my feet. Awww…I think that’s my favorite.” Recipe for wrinkle-free. “The longer I live the more perspective I gain on the regular rhythms of life’s ups and downs. Worry and strife doesn’t change anything except my blood pressure and the more I frown the more wrinkles I develop. I believe the secret to living well and ageless with health and beauty is keeping your mind at peace.” Fall forward to success. Mary Kay, who was named Most Outstanding Woman In Business in the 20th Century, had a saying that made a big impact on Gladys when she was working to become a Sales Director. “‘Fall forward to success’ … So, with purpose and persistence, I didn’t allow a few failures to stop me from achieving my goal.”