Absolute Living

Absolute Indianapolis

Living

JANUARY 2026

SHARPER FOCUS DRS. JAIME AND STANLEY HARPER

FUNCTION FIRST BRIDAL STYLES

WINTER SKIN ESSENTIALS CLOSETS SOLVED

French-inspired, approachable, fun.

110 W Main St. Suite 100.

Carmel, IN. 46032 (317) 548-3589 @eatjosephine_carmel www.josephinecarmel.com

Happy Hour 5pm to 6pm.

Every day!

Half-priced appetizers, cocktails & wine pours

Scan Here!

The Shops at River Crossing (next to The Fashion Mall) • www.debrand.com • 317.669.0955

"Sharing the love of delicious chocolate-always a perfect gift!”

VISIT US AT

The Shops at Ri Crossing (Next ver to th Fashion Mall ) e

CONTENTS January/2026

Photography By Gabrielle Noël

34

SHARPER FOCUS DRS. JAIME AND STANLEY HARPER

20 THE ABSOLUTE AGENDA

Whoever said winter is for staying indoors? Check out the area’s winter festivals, games and art exhibits; the allure of music, theater, and a night out; the wonder of the Harlem Globetrotters; and join others in supporting our neighbors with this year’s Souper Bowls event.

22 FUNCTION FIRST

In this Q&A, Dr. Staci Blume explains how functional testing provides clarity and a smarter path forward at any stage in life.

28 WINTER SKIN ESSENTIALS

Dr. Melanie Kingsley shares her favorite skincare essentials for winter and beyond.

43 BRIDAL STYLES

From sculpted silhouettes to romantic layers, Marie Gabriel Bridal's curated collections reflect what brides are gravitating toward this season.

48 INTIMATE LUXURY

A chic collection of stunning lingerie, just in time for Valentine's Day gifting.

50 FOR THE LOVE OF CHOCOLATE

At DeBrand Fine Chocolates, comfortable seating and inviting spaces make it easy to gather, linger, and indulge.

56 CLOSETS SOLVED

Closets are having a moment, and Inspired Closets is helping homeowners understand why.

62 'ROUND THE TOWN

Clay Terrace redefines mall culture with luxe boutiques, wellness studios, and local favorites that make this outdoor lifestyle center a true destination.

Volume 19. Issue 01. (#213)

FOLLOW @absolutelivingmagazine

SUBSCRIPTIONS For more information go to absolutelivingmagazine.com.

To sign up for Absolute Living's monthly newsletter, go to absolutelivingmagazine.com/newsletter.

COMMENTS Contact us via social media or email us at editorial@absolutelivingmagazine.com

Absolute Living

Editor-in-Chief EDUARDO PEÑA

Managing Editor JUSTYNA PEÑA

Assistant Editor MATTHEW HUME

Writer SUSAN SALAZ

Photography SARA ACKERMANN GABRIELLE NOËL

Digital Marketing Intern JENNA MANTAS

Graphic Designer NICO PEÑA

Social Media Specialist CHRISTIAN PEÑA

Distribution NEWSTANDS/RETAILERS, DIRECT MAIL AND DIGITAL

Contact Us INFO@ABSOLUTELIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

Subscriptions SUBSCRIBE@ABSOLUTELIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

Comments & Feedback EDITORIAL@ABSOLUTELIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

Absolute Living Magazine is published monthly by Pena Group, Inc. Copyright by Pena Group, Inc. Absolute Living Magazine is a registered trademark of Pena Group, Inc.

By Susan Salaz

The

Absolute

Living

AGENDA

January

Ongoing Voices from the Arctic Eiteljorg Museum eiteljorg.org This compelling exhibition explores contemporary Arctic life through Indigenous voices, art and storytelling.

Visitors gain insight into culture, resilience and environmental change, all presented through powerful visuals and narratives.

It’s a thoughtful, immersive experience well suited to winter’s reflective mood.

18

Through January 25 Ice Skating at Elevance Health Rink Morris Bicentennial Plaza gainbridgefieldhouse.com Glide through the heart of downtown Indy at the Elevance Health Ice Rink, where twinkling lights and upbeat music create a festive atmosphere. Whether you’re lacing up for family fun or a casual date night, it’s a quintessential winter experience before the season wraps.

ABSOLUTELIVING

January 16-17 Festival of Ice Carter Green theiceatcartergreen.com Carmel’s annual winter tradition transforms Carter Green into an outdoor gallery of intricate ice sculptures. Stroll the frozen displays, enjoy family-friendly activities, and warm up with the Carmel Fire Department’s Chili Cookoff.

January 17 Harlem Globetrotters - The 100th Year Tour Gainbridge Fieldhouse harlemglobetrotters.com Basketball meets entertainment as the Harlem Globetrotters bring their signature tricks, humor and athleticism to Indianapolis. Equal parts sport and spectacle, this high-energy show delights all ages with jaw-dropping skills, crowd interaction and nonstop fun that goes far beyond the final score.

January 19–February 1 Devour Indy Winterfest Participating Restaurants devourindy.com Indianapolis’s premier dining event returns with prix fixe menus at many of our favorite restaurants around town.

Winterfest invites diners to explore new favorites and try adventurous specials and pairings, making it the perfect excuse for date nights, group dinners and culinary discovery.

January 24 Carmel Winter Games Carter Green theiceatcartergreen.com Inspired by classic winter competitions, the Carmel Winter Games bring playful athletic challenges and community spirit to Carter Green. Spectators and participants alike enjoy friendly rivalry, creative events and seasonal fun, making this a lively way to embrace winter with a uniquely Carmel twist.

January 31 Souper Bowls Second Helpings secondhelpings.org This community-focused fundraiser pairs hearty soups from local chefs with a meaningful mission.

Guests sample creative recipes while supporting Second Helpings’ hunger relief and culinary job training programs. It’s a feel-good winter event that blends comfort food with purpose and generosity.

ABSOLUTELIVING

February 6–22 The Great Gatsby The Tarkington Theatre thecenterpresents.org F. Scott Fitzgerald’s iconic novel comes to life on stage in this theatrical adaptation filled with glamour, longing, and Jazz Age drama. Lavish costumes and timeless themes make this production a captivating night at the theater for literature lovers and newcomers alike at the Tarkington Theatre in Carmel.

February 12 Summer Nights: The Music of Grease Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael feinsteinshc.com Pull out your high school letter sweater and find your favorite poodle skirt to celebrate the energetic, memorable music of Grease on the stage. Expect nostalgia, big vocals and toe-tapping favorites in an upbeat performance, all in the intimate, cabaret atmosphere of Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael.

19

An Intimate Experience Awaits...

INTIMATE LUXURY The Finest European Intimates

PROFESSIONAL Master Bra Fittings

EXCEPTIONAL Customer Experience

www.upliftintimateapparel.com

By Susan Salaz

Function First A Q & A with Dr. Staci Blume of Well Infused

Not feeling your best should never be accepted as normal—especially as we age. At Well Infused, Dr. Staci Blume (Owner/Founder & President) believes the body is inherently designed for resilience and optimal function when given the right information and support. Through a proactive, personalized approach to functional care, her team helps clients replace guesswork with clarity as it relates to their health. Dr. Blume emphasizes that when the body’s natural systems are properly supported, energy, focus and performance can follow. Here, she explains how functional testing provides clarity, and a smarter path forward, at any stage of life.

(promotional content)

22

ABSOLUTELIVING

"Sleep, energy and brain function are deeply interconnected," says Dr. Blume, "and they're also some of the first areas affected when the body is under stress."

We go beyond the standard set of labs and review a much broader profile to evaluate how all systems work together— hormones, metabolism, inflammation, nutrient status, gut health and more. This gives us a much clearer picture of why someone feels the way they do, rather than just labeling the symptom. The goal is early insight and strategic optimization—so we can intervene before symptoms become setbacks.

Q: How can functional testing specifically support goals like better sleep, sustained energy and mental clarity?

Q: Functional lab testing is often the first step at Well Infused.

What makes this testing different, and why is it so powerful for uncovering root causes?

A: At Well Infused, functional lab testing looks beyond whether a value is simply “normal”

24

and instead asks whether the body is functioning optimally. Traditional labs are often limited in scope, intended to detect disease once it’s already present. Functional testing is designed to identify patterns and early imbalances long before symptoms turn into diagnoses.

ABSOLUTELIVING

A: Sleep, energy and brain function are deeply interconnected, and they’re also some of the first areas affected when the body is under stress.

Functional testing helps us identify stress patterns, metabolic imbalances, nutrient deficiencies and hormone disruptions that quietly undermine sleep, energy and cognitive function.

When we can see these patterns clearly, we stop guessing. Instead of generic recommendations, we’re able to target the specific imbalances disrupting sleep cycles, draining energy or contributing to brain fog. The result is a more efficient, more effective path to feeling clear, rested and resilient again.

Q: Once testing is complete, how do you translate those results into a personalized plan for each patient?

A: This is where our approach truly stands apart. Labs aren’t simply handed over with flagged “abnormal” values and a generic list of supplements—something many people experience when ordering even expanded panels online without clinical guidance.

In our clinics, every client’s lab results are interpreted by a professional, and in context with eating habits, reported stress load, current supplement regimen, goals and health history.

An interpretation report explaining the lab results

is created for each client and reviewed in-person with one of our Nurse Practitioners trained in functional medicine.

Together, a strategic care plan will be created aimed at addressing concerns and reaching personal goals. This plan will include components such as targeted nutrition, supplementation, lifestyle adjustments, IV therapy, peptide support, hormone optimization, regenerative services or other modalities—always selected for synergy, not excess. We focus on doing the right things in the right order so the body can respond and adapt efficiently.

Q: How do you support patients as they implement these changes over time?

A: Health transformation doesn’t happen overnight—it’s built through intentional changes applied consistently over time. We view health as a process, not a quick fix, and our team supports patients through every stage of that journey.

ABSOLUTELIVING

We act as accountability partners, providing guidance, education and course correction as the body responds. This ongoing relationship is why many patients choose our membership programs— they value having a team that stays engaged, adaptive and invested in long-term, measurable progress.

Founded in Noblesville— the practice’s first and flagship location—Well Infused has since expanded to clinics in Naples, Florida, and Tell City, Indiana, with additional locations underway nationwide.

At the core of every visit is education, empowerment, and a focus on measurable results. Visit Well Infused at 14297 Bergen Boulevard, Suite 125, in Noblesville. Follow @ wellinfusednoblesville on Instagram and online at wellinfused.com to explore services and schedule a consultation.

25

By Susan Salaz

Winter Skin Essentials Winter can be especially hard on the skin, but the right routine makes all the difference.

Dr. Melanie Kingsley, boardcertified dermatologist and founder of MK Dermatology in Carmel, shares her favorite skincare essentials for winter and beyond—products she personally loves for keeping skin hydrated, protected and healthy through the coldest months of the year. (promotional content)

28

ABSOLUTELIVING

Winter can be unforgiving to our skin, but Dr. Kingsley says that the right routine can make all the difference in the world.

ABSOLUTELIVING

29

30

ABSOLUTELIVING

CAMU Anti-Aging System This all-in-one system helps combat sun damage and wrinkles, smooth skin texture, and even treat hormonal acne.

It’s natural and clean, and it contains all of my favorite ingredients (vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, hydroxyacids, and more) so I don’t need several products cluttering my countertop.

Cetaphil Restoraderm Body Wash & Moisturizer I find this duo works well year-round, but it’s especially necessary in winter when cold outdoor air and indoor heat dry out the skin. Lather up with the body wash in the shower; then, apply the moisturizer immediately after patting dry to help seal in moisture. If you let your skin dry completely before moisturizing, it can actually lead to more dryness as natural oils and water evaporate.

Dr. Doug’s Miracle Balm This all-natural, organic, coconut-oil-based balm is amazing for protecting and healing the skin. It helps treat and prevent

chapped, dry areas, and I especially love it for my hands. I also always keep one on me for my lips to keep them hydrated, protected from the cold and looking glowy.

Alastin HydraTint Hands down my favorite SPF to wear every day.

Even in winter, sunscreen is essential. Sitting by a window, driving in the car, or spending short periods of time outdoors all contribute to cumulative DNA damage, which accelerates aging and increases skin cancer risk. Wearing daily SPF is an easy habit that makes a big difference. I love Alastin HydraTint because it’s a pure physical blocker with zinc and titanium, contains no chemical sunscreens, and gives the skin a beautiful dewy tint— so I often don’t need to wear makeup.

SkinCeuticals AGE Interrupter Ultra Serum I love this new serum from SkinCeuticals. It has a creamier, more luxurious feel and provides an extra layer of hydration—perfect for winter skin. What makes it unique is its ability to tighten and lift the

ABSOLUTELIVING

skin. I apply it as my last step before sunscreen in the morning, using upward motions from the neck to the forehead to help encourage lift.

Visit MK Dermatology at 12174 North Meridian Street, Suite 210, in Carmel. Find out more at mkderm.com online, and follow @ melaniekingsleymd and @mk_dermatology on Instagram.

31

Drs. Jaime and Stanley Harper lead SHarper Surgery with a physician-led approach that blends surgical expertise and advanced aesthetics.

Photography By Gabrielle Noël

By Susan Salaz

SHarper Focus Dr. Jaime and Stanley Harper

At the intersection of surgical precision and luxury aesthetics, SHarper Surgery has redefined what modern aesthetic care looks like. With a new Nora location and a physician-led philosophy rooted in personalization, Drs. Jaime and Stanley Harper continue to elevate the experience and expectations of aesthetic medicine in Indianapolis.

(promotional content)

ABSOLUTELIVING

35

S

oft light, layered textures, and an unmistakable sense of calm greet patients the moment they step into SHarper Surgery’s new Nora location. Designed to feel restorative rather than clinical, the space balances the sophistication of medical-grade care with elevated, intentional details including luxury robes, serene treatment rooms and a salt lounge that invites patients to slow down and exhale. Dr. Jaime Harper explains, “This location reflects our vision of what modern aesthetic medicine should be. Physician-led, highly effective, and delivered in a space that feels indulgent, thoughtful and restorative from the moment you walk through the door.”

While the atmosphere is calming, the expertise behind it is substantial. For more than 15 years, SHarper Surgery has built a reputation for excellence in both surgical and non-surgical care, expanding upon well-established practices in Fishers and Avon. The practice is led by husbandand-wife team Dr. Stanley Harper and Dr. Jaime Harper, whose clearly defined and complementary roles allow each to focus fully on their area of expertise while creating a seamless experience for patients.

Dr. Stanley Harper leads the surgical side of the practice, bringing extensive experience to procedures with an approach rooted in precision and balance, and results designed to feel natural and aligned with each patient’s individual goals. Dr. Jaime Harper directs the aesthetic division and serves as a national trainer for both Merz and Revance.

Supported by a highly skilled team of registered nurses and medical estheticians under the guidance of industry veteran Amanda Loyd, she oversees SHarper’s non-surgical offerings with both confidence and care. With this depth of local expertise

36

across surgical and aesthetic services, the practice is uniquely positioned to create customized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s individual goals and needs.

That commitment to personalization defines SHarper’s philosophy around beauty and wellness. As Dr. Jaime shares, “Our approach to beauty and wellness is never cookie cutter.” The team believes exceptional results begin with taking the time to truly listen and understand each patient’s goals, concerns and lifestyle, rather than following trends or templates. “Our philosophy is grounded in science and clinical evidence,” she says, “while still allowing room to thoughtfully push boundaries in order to achieve meaningful, visible results.”

By combining proven technologies with advanced techniques, SHarper Surgery is able to offer innovative treatment pairings that are not widely available elsewhere in Indianapolis, delivering outcomes that feel both natural and confident.

One of the treatments generating the most excitement is the Rejuvenation Ritual, a favorite for patients on a weight loss journey who are noticing changes in facial volume and skin quality. “This treatment combines a biostimulant with hyaluronic acid filler,” Dr. Jaime explains, “allowing us to restore volume in the lower face while also improving skin firmness and overall texture.” The result is a refreshed, balanced appearance that looks natural and well supported rather than overfilled. Dr. Jaime was introduced to this pairing through training with European colleagues in Barcelona, noting that in Europe there is even a product that combines both components into a single syringe. “That speaks to how well these modalities work together,” she says. SHarper has adopted a layered approach to deliver more comprehensive rejuvenation.

ABSOLUTELIVING

The new SHarper Surgery location in Nora reflects the evolution of the brand, pairing medical-grade aesthetic treatments with elevated amenities like a salt lounge and serene treatment spaces designed to feel both restorative and refined.

Dr. Stanley Harper leads the surgical side of SHarper Surgery with extensive experience in cosmetic and reconstructive procedures, while Dr. Jaime Harper directs the aesthetic division, overseeing advanced non-surgical treatments and physician-led skincare with a personalized approach.

For patients focused on improving overall skin quality, microneedling with exosomes has become another standout offering. While microneedling alone can be beneficial, Dr. Jaime notes that “patients over the age of 25 often need something more powerful to create visible, lasting change.” This treatment pairs microneedling with a targeted cocktail that includes tranexamic acid and stem cell derived exosomes, allowing the team to address tone, texture and skin regeneration in a single session.

As a new year begins, many patients come to SHarper thinking about renewal and self-care, and Dr. Jaime encourages an intentional approach rather than chasing trends seen on social media. She often recommends starting with the SHarper Signature Membership, which allows patients to build a relationship with one dedicated medical esthetician. “When you come in consistently each month, your esthetician gets to know you, your skin, and how it responds over time,” she says.

“That continuity of care makes a meaningful difference.” She likens the experience to “having a trusted best friend who understands the industry, cuts through the noise, and can confidently guide you toward the treatments that will deliver the results you are looking for in a thoughtful and intentional way.”

Behind the scenes, the culture at SHarper is just as intentional as the treatments. As a husband-and-wife team, the Harpers credit their success to clearly defined roles and a foundation of trust built over more than 23 years of marriage. Dr. Jaime jokes that “the secret to working well together is not being in the same location at the same time,” but notes that in practice, it works because their responsibilities are clearly delineated.

Dr. Stanley focuses on the surgical side of

the practice while she leads the aesthetic division, allowing each to concentrate fully on their strengths while growing the brand together.

What continues to inspire the Harpers most is the people who fill the space each day.

“My team are truly the best wing women,” Dr. Jaime says, sharing how they bring positive energy into the office and are often the first to offer a compliment or make someone feel good the moment they walk through the door. She is equally inspired by the patients themselves and the opportunity to connect with them on a personal level. “I know how intimidating it can feel to walk into a medical spa or plastic surgery practice and openly talk about insecurities,” she says. At SHarper, the focus is on being approachable, honest, and deeply invested in doing what is right for each individual, even when that means saying no if a treatment is unnecessary or not the right fit.

As SHarper Surgery looks ahead to 2026, the mission remains unchanged. The practice continues to focus on delivering exceptional care, natural looking results, and an experience rooted in trust, transparency and long-term relationships, all within a space designed to reflect that promise from the moment patients arrive.

SHarper Surgery offers complimentary consultations with its expert aesthetic team, making it easy to explore your options and create a personalized plan with confidence.

Visit the new SHarper Surgery, Spa and Salt Lounge location in the newly renovated Nora Plaza, at 1300 E. 86th Street, Suite 31, Indianapolis, IN 46240. To learn more and schedule a consultation, find them online at sharpersurgery.com and follow @sharpersurgeryavon on Instagram.

ABSOLUTELIVING

39

YOUR BEST SELF STARTS HERE

SHOP. DINE. EXPERIENCE. CLAYTERRACE.COM

OVER 70 SHOPS, RESTAURANTS AND SERVICES TO DISCOVER 14390 CLAY TERRACE BLVD CARMEL, IN

CAMU Dermatologist-crafted to simplify your daily routine.

CAMU removes unnecessary steps and harmful ingredients by combining the world’s most effective, science-backed ingredients into one powerful formulation.

The CAMU ClearSkin System Exfoliates, Clears and Hydrates. Designed to treat and prevent acne while promoting a healthy skin barrier.

The CAMU Anti-Aging System Smooths, Corrects and Restores. An all-in-one solution to combat wrinkles, sun damage, and hormonal acne.

Safe, Clean, And Proven By Science.

SkinTherapyMD.com

By Susan Salaz

Bridal Styles To spotlight the styles shaping today’s bridal moment, we looked to Marie Gabriel Bridal, whose curated collections reflect what brides are truly gravitating toward right now. From sculpted silhouettes to romantic layers, these are the wedding dress details defining modern bridal fashion.

Today’s bridal fashion strikes a thoughtful balance between tradition and individuality. Brides are gravitating toward gowns that feel expressive and intentional, with designs that honor classic craftsmanship while embracing a modern sense of confidence. Rather than following rigid rules, today’s brides are choosing dresses that reflect how they want to move, celebrate and remember the day—pieces that feel personal,

comfortable and emotionally resonant. At Marie Gabriel Bridal, owner Young Colling and her team bring this moment to life through a carefully curated collection that reflects how today’s brides want to feel on their wedding day: elegant, confident and entirely themselves. This season’s most-loved styles focus on shape, texture and movement, proving that timeless doesn’t have to mean predictable.

(promotional content)

ABSOLUTELIVING

43

Basque Waists A nod to historic structure, the basque waist is making a refined return. Defined by its dipped, V-shaped waistline, this silhouette elongates the torso while creating beautiful definition through the bodice. Designers are reimagining the look with softer fabrics and cleaner lines, giving the style a lighter, more modern sensibility. The result feels dramatic yet wearable, offering a flattering foundation that pairs equally well with full skirts or more streamlined designs, ideal for brides drawn to old-world romance with a contemporary edge.

Lace Toppers Lace toppers are redefining versatility in bridal style.

Whether sheer and delicate or richly textured, they add dimension and softness while allowing a gown to evolve throughout the day. Brides are embracing toppers as a way to personalize their look—adding sleeves, illusion necklines or intricate detailing without committing to a single silhouette from ceremony to reception.

Beyond aesthetics, toppers offer thoughtful coverage for more formal settings while still allowing brides to reveal a lighter, sleeker look when it’s time to celebrate.

Draping Soft draping brings ease and movement to modern gowns. Flowing folds skim the body, creating a romantic, fluid look that feels effortless rather than ornate. This approach highlights luxurious fabrics such as silk satin, crepe and chiffon, allowing texture and movement to take center stage. Draped gowns appeal to brides seeking understated elegance, offering comfort, flexibility and a sense of quiet drama that feels natural and unfussy.

Designer Influence: Vivienne Westwood Known for pairing historic silhouettes with modern edge, Vivienne Westwood remains a powerful influence on today’s wedding fashion. Her designs champion individuality, confidence and unapologetic femininity, challenging brides to embrace structure with attitude. From sculpted bodices to dramatic draping, her work continues to inspire designers who see bridal fashion not just as tradition, but as personal expression—proving that a wedding dress can feel romantic, rebellious and entirely one’s own.

Visit Marie Gabriel Bridal at 5830 E. 86th Street in Indianapolis or explore their offerings at mariegabrielbridal.com and on Instagram @mariegabrielcouturebridal and @mariegabrielsocial.

Empreinte Leia Full Cup Bra

For the season of love (and every day after), we’re spotlighting a modern lingerie edit curated with Uplift Intimate Apparel. Expect elevated essentials and statement pieces alike— featuring luxury favorites like Empreinte, Aubade, Jane Woolrich, Lise Charmel, and more.

Valentine Lingerie Collection

Lise Charmel Dressing Floral Bra

Lise Charmel Désir Et Volupté Babydoll

Rya Collection Swan Cover Up Robe

MEY Captivating Lace Bodysuit

Carol Coelho Aphrodite 3D Embroidered Bodysuit

Aubade Boîte à Désir Lace “Insomnia” Set

Lise Charmel Désirs de Venise Lace Babydoll

INTIMATE LUXURY A chic collection of beautiful lingerie, just in time for Valentine’s Day gifting—curated in collaboration with Uplift Intimate Apparel.

711 Veterans Way #136, Carmel, IN 46032

ABSOLUTELIVING

49

By Susan Salaz

FOR THE LOVE OF CHOCOLATE At DeBrand Fine Chocolates, comfortable seating and inviting spaces make it easy to gather, linger, and indulge.

F

ebruary invites indulgence, and few places capture the spirit of the season quite like DeBrand Fine Chocolates of Indianapolis.

More than a place to pick up a box of chocolates, DeBrand is perfect for date nights, Galentine’s meetups, or an unhurried afternoon treat.

(promotional content)

ABSOLUTELIVING

51

DeBrand partners Bill and Lori Sonner encourage guests to do more than just browse—they invite them to taste. An exciting menu offering is the DeBrand Chocolate Tasting, which includes a selection from each of the Classic, Connoisseur and Truffle collections, elegantly served on a tiered platter. Comfortable seating and inviting gathering spaces make it easy to linger with a warm drink and good conversation. “We want people to slow down and really experience the chocolates,” says Bill. “Tastings are our way of welcoming guests into the formal DeBrand experience.”

Pairings elevate the experience even further.

The Hot Caramel drink pairs naturally with dark chocolate caramel pecan patties or a classic dark chocolate truffle, while the unapologetically rich Dark Hot Chocolate shines alongside a white chocolate key lime truffle or strawberry rhubarb caramel for a bright contrast. A cappuccino complements selections from the Connoisseur Collection—especially the pistachio or rosemary citrus, while the affogato (espresso over ice cream) offers a simple, elevated way to enjoy your visit.

For Valentine’s Day, DeBrand’s signature heart boxes make it easy to take something special home, with attentive staff helping guests thoughtfully build the perfect assortment—one piece at a time. “People really treasure these boxes,” Lori shares.

“They come back year after year, and we get to help them curate something meaningful every time.”

Visit DeBrand Fine Chocolates at 8685 River Crossing Boulevard in Indianapolis, and call Lori at 317-669-0955 to discuss your next gift order, tailored to your individual needs.

Follow @debrandfinechoc on Instagram for the latest news.

ABSOLUTELIVING

53

By Susan Salaz

Closets Solved Closets are having a moment—and Inspired Closets is helping homeowners understand why. After more than 20 years of designing custom storage solutions throughout Central Indiana, owners Dave and Lyndie Wells have opened their first showroom in Carmel, offering a hands-on way to experience how thoughtful organization can quietly—and powerfully—transform daily life.

(promotional content)

ABSOLUTELIVING

57

“For us, it’s never been just about closets,” says Lyndie Wells. “These systems work anywhere—pantries, laundry rooms, home offices, garages. Any space that feels chaotic can be transformed with the right design.” That philosophy is evident the moment visitors step into the showroom, where fully styled vignettes showcase storage solutions for nearly every area of the home. From boutique-style primary closets and streamlined men’s wardrobes to hardworking pantries, mudrooms and garages, the displays feel both aspirational and attainable.

The idea, Lyndie explains, is not perfection— but function. Many homeowners live with spaces that technically work, but don’t work well. Wire shelving that wastes vertical space. Pantries where items disappear into deep corners. Home offices that double as drop zones. Over time, that friction adds up, creating daily moments of frustration that are easy to accept as “just the way it is.”

Inspired Closets approaches each project by first understanding how a space is actually used. Their designers start in the home, listening closely before ever opening design software. What gets accessed daily? What gets stored seasonally? Where does clutter naturally collect? From there, they create systems that bring order without rigidity— spaces that support routines rather than dictate them.

The Carmel showroom also functions as a collaborative design studio, allowing clients to see that process come to life. Using advanced 3D software and augmented reality technology, homeowners can walk through their personalized

58

designs, test layouts, and fine-tune details before installation begins. It’s a revealing experience—one that often changes how clients think about scale, flow and usability.

Beyond inspiration, the showroom invites conversation. Clients can open drawers, test pull-outs, explore finishes, and compare hardware options in real time—details that are difficult to visualize on paper but make all the difference once installed. It’s a tactile experience that brings confidence to every design decision.

“You start and finish every day in your closet,” Dave Wells notes. “I don’t think there’s another space in the home, aside from maybe the kitchen, that has a bigger impact on your day-to-day sense of contentment.” When storage is intentional— when clothing, shoes, work gear, kids’ supplies, or pantry staples all have a place— it creates a subtle but meaningful shift.

Mornings feel calmer. Evenings feel less rushed. The home begins to work with you instead of against you.

That sense of ease is what keeps many clients expanding beyond a single project.

One solved closet problem leads to a pantry that finally makes sense, a laundry room that supports real life, or a garage that stores more than just cars. As Dave puts it, “Better closets equal less chaos—and less chaos leads to more contentment.”

Visit Inspired Closets at 598 W Carmel Dr, Suite C, Carmel. Learn more and schedule a consultation at inspiredclosetsindy. com and follow @inspiredclosetsindy on Instagram.

ABSOLUTELIVING

By Susan Salaz

’Round the Town Mall, Evolved — Your Mini Guide to Clay Terrace

Clay Terrace, Indiana’s first outdoor lifestyle center in Carmel, redefines mall culture with luxe boutiques, wellness studios, and local favorites that make it as much a destination as a day out.

Bluemercury bluemercury.com

Step inside Bluemercury for a beauty experience that’s as personal as it is polished. This boutique brings together a curated selection of luxury skincare, makeup and fragrance brands, from cult favorites to cutting-edge discoveries, along with expert advice from knowledgeable beauty specialists. Whether refreshing your routine or finding a new signature scent, you’ll leave glowing with confidence.

62

ABSOLUTELIVING

Hoosier Sister

hoosiersister.com

Eclectic and endlessly charming, Hoosier Sister captures the spirit of Midwestern style with a polished, playful twist.

Inside you’ll find artisan jewelry, clever gifts and home accents that balance vintage soul with modern whimsy. Each piece feels handpicked and heartfelt, making this boutique a destination for meaningful finds and memorable gifts with unmistakable local character.

Lululemon lululemon.com

Performance meets polish at Lululemon, where technical design and everyday wearability go hand in hand. Known for sleek silhouettes and innovative fabrics, the brand continues to define luxury activewear.

Whether you’re headed to the gym, the mat, or just out running errands, every piece is made to move with purpose and keep you feeling strong, confident and centered.

StretchMed

stretchmedstudios.com

Commit to self-care in the new year with a personalized stretching session at StretchMed, where flexibility, mobility and recovery are the focus. Certified specialists guide you through assisted movements designed to release tension, improve posture and boost energy.

Whether you’re recovering from a workout or simply seeking a reset, this is wellness that helps you move better, and feel better, every day.

ABSOLUTELIVING

63

Danielle’s Popcorn daniellespopcorn.com

Small-batch and made with love, Danielle’s Popcorn turns simple snacking into something special.

From caramel and kettle classics to inventive seasonal flavors, every batch is handcrafted with high-quality ingredients and plenty of heart. Now celebrating its first season at Clay Terrace, this beloved local brand brings a fresh pop of flavor to the community.

Pandora

us.pandora.net

Timeless craftsmanship meets personal expression at Pandora, where every charm, ring and pendant tells a story.

Explore iconic designs in sterling silver, gold and enamel that make thoughtful gifts or lasting keepsakes. Whether you’re building your first bracelet or refreshing your collection, Pandora offers endless ways to celebrate life’s moments with elegance, sparkle and heart.

14th Collection @14th.collection

A study in modern luxury and meticulous craftsmanship, 14th Collection curates an exclusive edit of contemporary designers whose work merges timeless tailoring with artistic expression. Every piece is thoughtfully selected for its quality, detail and individuality, creating a wardrobe that feels both global and deeply personal. It’s more than fashion—it’s a refined point of view on modern design.

64

ABSOLUTELIVING

Athletic Annex athleticannex.com

Locally owned and fueled by passion, Athletic Annex is more than a running store—it’s a community hub for movement. Shop performance footwear, apparel and accessories backed by expert fitting and personalized guidance. Whether you’re chasing a marathon PR or simply embracing a more active lifestyle, this team makes every step supportive, empowering and fun.

Evereve

evereve.com

Polished yet approachable, Evereve celebrates real women with contemporary style that fits beautifully into everyday life. Expect denim, sweaters, dresses and accessories curated for confidence, versatility and ease. In-store stylists make finding your look effortless, while the boutique’s warm, upbeat energy reminds you that fashion should always make you feel as good as you look.

Upland Brewing Co. uplandbeer.com

End your day at Clay Terrace with a pint at Upland Brewing Co., where craft flavor and casual comfort meet. Sip rotating seasonal brews or signature sours, pair them with locally sourced bites, and linger on the patio with friends. Relaxed, flavorful and full of Indiana pride, it’s the perfect spot to unwind and toast to good company.

ABSOLUTELIVING

65