Absolute Living

Absolute Living

OCTOBER 2021

GLORIA JIMENEZ SPEAKING UP FOR HER COMMUNITY

USHER IN AUTUMN

FACES OF WOMEN IN BUSINESS

UNDERSTANDING BREAST CANCER

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I am UNSTOPPABLE. Yes, you can reduce your breast cancer risk!

It’s that can-do attitude that makes a difference. This October for Breast Cancer Awareness Month don’t let your risk factors stop you. Take our FREE personalized breast cancer risk assessment, so you can become empowered to control your individual risk factors now.

What’s stopping you?

Know Your Breast Cancer Risk!

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FranciscanHealth.org/KnowYourRisk

Oct/2021

CONTENTS

GLORIA JIMENEZ SPEAKING UP FOR HER COMMUNITY

Photography By Gabrielle Cheikh Noel

22

12

UNDERSTANDING BREAST CANCER

31

FACES OF WOMEN IN BUSINESS

16

SEE YOU AT THE BARRE

48

USHER IN AUTUMN

FACTS OVER FICTION

PHYSIQUE 57 OFFERS ENERGETIC, ENGAGING, EFFICIENT FUN FOR ALL!

THIS MONTH, WE SPOTLIGHT 15 FEMALE BUSINESS OWNERS MAKING AN IMPACT ON OUR COMMUNITY.

FILL YOUR FALL BUCKET LIST WITH MORE THAN JUST APPLES THIS YEAR.

Volume 15. Issue 10. (#165)

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@absolutelivingmagazine

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Absolute Living

Publisher / Editor JUSTYNA PEÑA

Marketing Director EDUARDO PEÑA

Assistant Editor MATTHEW HUME

Writer SUSAN SALAZ

Photography GABRIELLE CHEIKH NOEL JES NIJJER EDUARDO PEÑA PAOLA WILLIAMS

Art NICK PEÑA

Marketing Coordinator ISMAEL PEÑA

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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.

DR. JULIANA MEYER

DR. MEGHANA RAGHAVENDRA

Understanding

BREAST CANCER Facts Over Fiction

By Susan Salaz

In a fast-paced world full of opinions, it is important to separate facts from fiction, especially when it comes to your health. We spoke with two Franciscan Health experts, breast surgeon Dr. Juliana Meyer and medical oncologist Dr. Meghana Raghavendra, for a better understanding of breast cancer.

Know your risk factors.

While deodorants, underwire bras and cell phones have not been shown to increase risk of breast cancer, higher BMI and obesity (especially in postmenopausal women), along with tobacco use, have shown a definite increased risk. By practicing strategies such as physical activity and weight loss, you can even reduce your risk of breast cancer. “A low-fat diet, Mediterranean diet and diets rich in fruits and vegetables have all been

demonstrated to reduce risk of breast cancer, while red meat and processed meat have been suggested to increase breast cancer risk,” explains Dr. Raghavendra.

Understand what a family history of breast cancer means for you.

Dr. Raghavendra explains that while there is a higher risk of the disease in people with more than one first-degree relative with breast cancer, only 5-6% of

(promotional content)

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all breast cancers are directly related to an inherited mutation.

Don’t delay your yearly screenings.

Dr. Meyer says that self-exams are important, but the best screening practice is a clinical exam in combination with yearly screening mammograms. She adds that if you are at increased risk (due to family history or personal risk factors), you can be seen in Franciscan’s high-risk clinic for additional screening by an expert.

A breast cancer diagnosis is not a death sentence.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosis around the globe. Yet despite that overwhelming statistic, there are nearly 4 million breast cancer survivors right now in the US alone. “Breast cancer is very treatable and even curable,” says Dr. Meyer, “but it is more of a marathon than a sprint. There are a lot of steps and moving parts.”

Breast cancer treatment does not mean you must put your life on hold.

Each patient’s oncology team will work with them to create a treatment plan for their cancer, in order to give them the best outcome possible. “The goal is to continue to live your life to the fullest while receiving treatment,” Dr. Raghavendra says, adding that there have even been advances with chemotherapy, making it more tolerable and minimizing side effects. Dr. Meyer agrees, and has seen many patients continue to work and go about their lives through treatment.

She believes that this has come in tandem with the fact that

cancer physicians try to create an environment to better support their patients through the entire process.

Everyone’s treatment won’t be the same.

Dr. Meyer says that the treatment options at Franciscan are individually tailored to each patient and each tumor. Dr. Raghavendra echoes that personalized treatments have evolved significantly in the last several years, saying, “With advent of these additional options for treatment, we have noted a significant increase in cure rates for early breast cancer, and increased overall survival for our patients with advanced breast cancer.”

Recovery isn’t just physical.

Recovery from cancer treatment is multifold. The physical portion of recovery from treatments takes time and requires a healthy lifestyle, but the mental aspect of recovery should not be overlooked. “There is a significant psychological and emotional toll that cancer takes. Patients need healing from this as well,” says Dr. Raghavendra. Both doctors encourage supportive care through Franciscan’s care clinics and their cancer survivorship program, Moving Beyond.

Learn more about your current risk factors by taking a FREE breast cancer risk assessment.

KNOW YOUR BREAST CANCER RISK!

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answers to

26464

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See You at the Barre

By Susan Salaz

Leslie Lupton first started working out at Physique 57’s flagship location in New York City almost 15 years ago. She loved everything about it—the intimate, individualized classes; the creative choreography and personalized playlists; and the definitive results that were apparent both physically and mentally. When Lupton and her husband Christian Lopez left NYC in the fall of 2019 to raise their family in Carmel, Indiana, one of the things the native Hoosier missed most was the high caliber Physique 57 barre workouts.

Carmel turned out to be a natural fit for the concept, and earlier this year Lupton opened the doors to her own Physique 57 studio, the first of the premier barre franchise outside of New York.

Photography By Bellomo Studios

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Physique 57 in Carmel’s Midtown Plaza might be the newest barre studio in the city, but founders and fitness mavericks Jennifer Maavani and Tanya Becker are the original pioneers of the barre movement that has become so popular. The signature 57-minute classes are based on the ballet-inspired Lotte Berk Method, producing fast and transformative results.

Each high-intensity/low-impact workout incorporates dynamic, dance-style sequences with elements of yoga and pilates to achieve what is known as interval overload. Lupton explains that dancers use this technique to develop muscle memory when fatigue settles in. “It is fast-paced and you are constantly moving and making slight adjustments so that your muscles are fully engaged, overloaded, and then stretched,” she says.

The specific technique focuses on elongating muscles and enhancing core strength, working muscles you didn’t even know you had.

Lady Gaga, there is probably a class and a playlist for you. “We love that each of our instructors’ personalities shines through with the way they teach the class and the playlists they curate,” says Lupton. Clients agree that the energy inside the studio is motivating and the instruction top-notch. While the trainers all have a background in dance and knowledge of anatomy and body movement, the individualized group workouts meet each participant where they are each day, regardless of where they are on their fitness journey.

At Physique 57, music is a key component used to help participants move their way through the class, and whether you are into the latest dance beats, just dropping in for some onehit wonders, or pushing yourself to the edge of glory with some

Drop in for a class at Physique 57, located at 350 Monon Boulevard #14 in Carmel’s Midtown Plaza. For more information visit physique57.com/Indianapolis/ or follow @ physique57indianapolis on Instagram.

For Lupton, wellness is a priority and she is happy she can share that passion with the Carmel community. “Physique 57 is challenging, but it is for every body,” she insists. “I want people to realize that exercise is a joy, and it can make you feel better about yourself no matter what age, shape or size you are. It’s not an intimidating environment—everyone is truly welcome.”

BEST.YOU.EVER

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Welcome Home

317.306.6300 Mary.Wernke@TalkToTucker.com

www.MaryWernke.com

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By Susan Salaz

Gloria Jimenez

Speaking Up for Her Community Photography By Gabrielle Cheikh Noel | Artwork By Eduardo Peña

GLORIA JIMENEZ, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE INDIANA LATINO EXPO, IS RAISING HER VOICE TO EMPOWER THE LATINX COMMUNITY.

Gloria Jimenez knows most opportunities don’t happen by chance.

Random luck is fun when you find it, but she believes opportunities need to be created and nurtured in order to make an impact. In her work throughout Indianapolis, Gloria has initiated opportunities that promote the well-being and prosperity of many communities here, but she has a personal passion for helping the Latinx community she is a part of.

Originally from Peru, Gloria Jimenez moved to the United States in 2002 and made Miami and then Los Angeles her home before officially laying down roots in Indianapolis eight years ago. She arrived with her young daughter Andrea (now a teenager) in tow, and got right to work in her new role as an event planner and business enterprise officer with the city in the Office of Minority and Women Business Development. From 2012 to 2015, she not only assisted the department in all areas of community outreach, but also planned events such as the annual Mayor’s Celebration of Diversity Awards. (promotional content)

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Gloria has always worked for success and says much of her motivation lies in her daughter Andrea, who allows Gloria to see the world through fresh eyes. “I want Andrea to have opportunities,” she says, adding that she wants that for her whole community. “We are all here to progress, to work hard, to start a business, to succeed, to give a better opportunity to our families here, and to help the families that are left in our home countries. This is the country of opportunities.” As an immigrant, Gloria knows that this takes not only familial support, but also an understanding of American culture, government and business systems, as well as access to education, healthcare and work. “The first year that I moved to Indianapolis was really hard. I didn't know a lot of people. I didn’t have a network. It was like being an immigrant for a second time.” Through her job with the city, she built a vast network of professional contacts, made many friends along the way, and began finding her place in the community here.

According to Gloria, Indiana has always felt very welcoming, and calling the Hoosier state home is one of the best decisions she has made.

“I’m living my best life right now,” says Gloria, pointing out that even after a decade living in Los Angeles she didn’t have the support that she has here. In 2018, Gloria became the Executive Director of the Indiana Latino Expo (ILE)—a non-profit organization that fosters pride in Latinx cultures and communities by offering a range of opportunities, including cultural advancement and economic development, along with health, wellness and educational programs. The role is a great fit for Gloria, as she embodies the mission of improving the quality of life for all members of the Latinx community in Indiana.

In 2019, Gloria founded the AXIS Leadership Program. A partnership with ILE and the City of Indianapolis, this eight-month development endeavor is designed to prepare young Latinx professionals for civic engagement and community leadership. Gloria calls it one of her babies—one of those opportunities she

has nurtured and tended to from inception.

Today she sits on the steering committee of this instrumental program that has made a huge impact in the city’s evolving Latinx community.

In her work at the Indiana Latino Expo, Gloria is able to focus on one of her true passions: the empowerment of women. She credits Maria Luisa Tishner, president of the Indiana Latino Expo and fellow Peruvian, as one of her mentors, especially in this effort. Together, these two Latinas are making huge strides to propel the next generation forward by creating a culture of support and setting standards of collaboration among women. “Gloria is a true champion for the community and especially for Latina woman,” says Maria. “She is passionate, sincere and enthusiastic in everything that she does and her efforts are truly making a difference and inspiring others to do the same.”

Through the Indiana Latino Expo and supportive sponsors (AES Indiana, Managed Health Services, Indiana University, and many more), Gloria has found different channels to reach the Latinx community. “Every year, over 40 sponsors come on board, and I am so grateful that they believe in our mission. Without their support I couldn’t do all of this work,” she explains. Most recently Gloria discovered a niche in television. You can see her on WISHTV, where she is a multicultural contributor with a segment on Community Link. She also hosts De Todo un Poco on Telemundo Indy Channel 19, where she shares “a little bit of everything” and relates to many people, especially women, by sharing experiences from her own life. “Doing TV for me is a way to reach out to the Latino community with all the opportunities available for them,” she says. “We have enough bad news all over TV and social media. I want to be a vibrant, positive voice in the community.”

Throughout the month of September, Gloria celebrated National Hispanic Heritage Month by speaking with leaders in the Latinx community here and celebrating their accomplishments, but she also made sure to ask tough questions

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about racism and civic engagement. “As Latinos, we stand in solidarity with Black Americans in the fight for racial justice,” says Gloria. “At the same time, Hispanic Americans should reflect on how our diverse racial backgrounds—including Indigenous, European, Afro-Latino, Mestizo, and other identities – can help position us to strengthen our multi-racial, multi-cultural society.”

For more information on the Indiana Latino Expo follow @indianalatinoexpo on Instagram or visit www.indianalatinoexpo.org, where you can also submit nominations for the ILE Awards Gala honoring those making a significant impact on the Latinx community in Indiana in the areas of education, health, entrepreneurship and young professionals.

You can also see what Gloria Jimenez has to say by following @glojimeneztv on Instagram.

Gloria Jimenez is committed to helping the growing Latinx

population in Indianapolis to reach their full potential. She effectively advocates for these communities by sitting on different boards, but is intentional with her commitments, serving where she can make a valuable impact. “I don’t want to just be a checkmark,” she says. She has served on the Newfields Community Advisory Committee, with NPR and PBS, and currently sits on the board for Indiana 4H, Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) and Yo Voto, a recently created organization for voting rights for Hispanic and Latinos.

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Jean Easter & Barbara Gurwitz

Faces

By Susan Salaz

of

Women in Business

O

2021

wning, operating and growing a successful business on any scale comes with challenges, and for women, the demands are often even more imposing. Around the world, male entrepreneurs consistently outnumber their female counterparts, and while the U.S. has high rankings for female entrepreneurship, it also has the largest gender gap, according to CEO Magazine.

Despite the odds, opportunity is out there and today more women than ever are taking the necessary risks to be their own boss. Here we have 15 of the area’s top entrepreneurs in a range of industries, proving that women are crucial in the workplace. They are designers, attorneys, fitness instructors, proprietors and collectors, to name a few. But they are also trailblazers, trendsetters and innovators making our community a better place.

Gloria Jimenez, profiled in this month’s cover story, speaks of seeking—and even creating opportunities in life and business that utilize individual desires and expertise. She says, “I want every person, especially young professionals, to find their talents, because through those talents they will discover so much more.” Making use of your gifts and following your passion can be key to success in business too, as many of the industry leaders profiled here are proving. (promotional content)

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THE FACE OF HOME AUTOMATION Shanna Haecker, Universal Design Group/TRIPhase Technologies Owner “Having a vision and a plan is one thing, but executing it is another. You cannot do it alone.

Surround yourself with those that are strong, smart, positive, resourceful, trustworthy and have a solid work ethic. Then watch that vision and plan fall into place. Oh, and a sense of humor really helps!”

Born and raised in a small town, Shanna Haecker inherited a “work hard, play hard” mentality from her entrepreneur parents. No stranger to hard work, she got her first job de-tasseling corn at age 13, and was a business owner at 14, thanks to her grandfather, establishing SHANZ jewelry, gifts, and novelties. Shanna’s entrepreneurial spirit led her to play an essential role shaping TRIPhase Technologies, a home automation company founded with her husband Robert Haecker.

For more than 20 years, Shanna has been bringing her eye for design into the lineup of offerings at TRIPhase Technologies, now with her own division. Universal Design Group focuses on integrating technology into interior design, which is where Shanna’s artistic passion lies. “I love bridging the gap between technology and design. It is thrilling to be able to offer a solution that not only makes the investment perform the best it possibly can, but that looks amazing too,” says Shanna. She feels fortunate to be a part of an exciting industry that is always changing.

Shanna acknowledges that owning a business is demanding, especially with the additional roles of wife and mother, but she stays grounded by her faith and by mindfully approaching each day with gratitude. She remains grateful to the clients that continue to invite TRIPhase technologies into their homes, saying, “We play a very intimate part in how a family is going to live in their home, and some of the best friendships have blossomed because of it.”

Find out more about Universal Design Group online at www.triphase-tech.com or stop in the TRIPhase Technologies showroom, located at 10960 Bennett Parkway in Zionsville.

For home automation inspiration follow @ TRIPhaseTechnologies on Facebook.

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THE FACE OF REAL ESTATE Mary Wernke, Mary Wernke Real Estate Group Realtor/Broker “At the end of the day, if you are passionate and love what you do, the results will follow.”

Mary Wernke wants for people to love where they live. Her appreciation of architecture and design, along with a passion for helping people and providing excellent customer service, have helped craft an unmatched brand of boutique real estate, which focuses on white glove, concierge style services for all of her buyers and sellers. Mary explains that real estate isn’t just about purchasing a new home or selling a former one, but it is about moving people from one chapter of life to another. “It’s fun to help others through those transitions,” says Mary, who is always attentive to the needs and desires of her clients through every step of the process.

A Kansas native, Mary got her feet wet in real estate working in the fast-paced market of downtown Chicago. Since moving to Indianapolis with her husband Michael (an investment sales specialist and principal of XMark Midwest) more than a decade ago, Mary has been with local firm F.C. Tucker, and was among the company’s top 10 producers in 2020.

Accolades aside, Mary insists it’s the relationships that matter, which is why she is committed to nurturing relationships in every area of her life, from her family, to her clients, to her community.

This past summer, Mary, along with her team, began offering a real estate mentorship program. “We are excited about the level of interest and energy in this program,” says Mary of the opportunity for high school students to understand how real estate can play a role in their future, regardless of their career path.

Connect with the Mary Wernke Real Estate Group online at www. marywernke.com and follow @ marywernkerealestategroup on Instagram to stay up to date on new listings and the latest news.

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THE FACE OF HOME DÉCOR Mandy Skelton, Willa Gray Home Owner “Starting a business is not easy, but if there is a true need it is definitely worth pursuing.”

After several home remodels and a new build, Mandy Skelton’s intriguing brickand-mortar establishment was born out of a need for uncommon home furnishings and textiles that she found were lacking within the community. “I wanted to take the time to find pieces that were unique and interesting. This was ten years ago before you could find a lot of things online,” she explains. After discovering amazing sources all over the country, she decided to fill the void here in her neighborhood, opening Willa Gray Home in Broad Ripple Village four years ago this month.

With five children, Mandy welcomes the space to follow her curiosity and interest in design. “It has helped me, as a mom, to have a creative outlet,” she says, “and I think it has meant a lot for my kids to see me pursue this business.” The serenity of the shop is an expression of self-care, not only for her, but also for clients that gravitate toward her calm, layered style.

Mandy firmly believes in the power of finding the perfect piece, and each handselected item she offers is intentional. “I’m always searching,” she says. “It’s fun to find things that are different—that I love— and share them.” While she is constantly curating the studio gallery and online shop (which launched this month), she also offers design consultations, blending her distinct aesthetic with each client’s own style and story. She values the relationships Willa Gray has created, saying of her business, “It is so important in my life and it is so rewarding.”

Visit Willa Gray Home at 6516 Carrollton Avenue in Indianapolis for furnishings, art, accessories and apothecaries. Book a design consultation and shop online at www.willagrayhome.com and follow @ willagrayhome on Instagram for the latest inspiration.

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THE FACE OF FAMILY LAW Kena Hollingsworth, HRM Attorneys at Law Founding Partner “Your only limitations are the ones you believe.”

Working for herself has always been a priority for Kena Hollingsworth. She loves the flexibility and autonomy, and appreciates the unique challenges and thrills of entrepreneurship. Kena knew from a young age that she wanted to be a divorce attorney. She started her own firm with the intention of creating an environment that would inspire and empower women to be great lawyers, and encourage them to practice law on their own terms. “Over the years I believe my firm has done that well, as there have been many incredible attorneys—not only women, but a few men, too—who started their careers here, and have gone on to do great things,” she says.

Kena knows firsthand that divorce can be one of the most stressful events a family can experience. She is passionate about destigmatizing divorce and helping her clients navigate the process with as much peace and kindness as possible. In her 20 years of experience, she has found that the result is not only less devastating mentally, spiritually and even physically, but also far less destructive financially as well. “In divorce, just as with any significant challenge or crisis, we have opportunities to grow and expand— to become better people, better parents, and better partners the next time around,” Kena explains. She is committed to working out with her trainer, daily meditation, and regular doses of counseling to help her conquer limiting beliefs and attain new levels of joy and fulfillment in her life and career.

To find out more about Kena and the Hollingsworth Roberts Means legal team, visit www.hrmlaw.com and follow @hrmlaw and @kena.hollingsworth on Instagram.

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THE FACE OF FASHION Erin Welch, 8Fifteen Owner “To anyone wanting to start their own business: Keep with your niche, hire a great accountant and surround yourself with positive humans!”

Erin Welch wears her affinity for fashion on her sleeve. Always a trendsetter, the North Central alum remembers her high school hallways like a catwalk exposing her to a range of styles. After studying fashion in college and working as a buyer with Nordstrom through openings in downtown Indianapolis and later Dallas, Texas, Erin returned to her roots in 2009, opening the Broad Ripple boutique 8Fifteen. Her years of experience in the industry and her willingness to take a few risks have positioned her as a leader in ladies highend fashion.

Tucked in a cozy corner off 65th Street, Erin loves the neighborhood and being surrounded by other specialty shops and services—many that are also female-owned.

Everything she stocks is something Erin insists she would keep in her own closet, and that is what continues to set 8Fifteen apart. There are always exciting new lines and designers in the fashion-forward shop that you won’t find anywhere else, and Erin’s discerning taste and styling talents bring a fresh perspective to any wardrobe. By honing her niche, seeking exclusivity and always staying a few steps ahead of the current styles, Erin has created a following of fashion–savvy women ready to be the city’s trendsetters. “Some of the most rewarding conversations I have are with clients that have been shopping with us since the beginning. Many of them still have—and still wear—their first purchases from the store,” she says, adding that staple pieces are just as important as statement pieces when it comes to your clothing and accessories.

Shop 8Fifteen’s rotating seasonal collections at 815 East 65th Street in Indianapolis. See what’s trending online at www.8fifteen. com and by following @8fifteenindy on Instagram.

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THE FACE OF JEWELRY Dana Friedman, Petite G Jewelers Owner “You can do anything that you put your heart and soul into if you work hard enough."

Dana Friedman has a knack for layering necklaces, is known for her cuff bracelets, and is quite comfortable mixing her fine jewelry with fashion pieces. This distinct style that combines eclectic flair and vintage romance with classic appeal is not just apparent in Dana’s wardrobe, but in the entire jewelry collection she has curated at Petite G Jewelers, located in The Shoppes at 56th and Illinois.

Dana got into the jewelry industry by chance in college, and went on to make a career of it. She opened Petite G six years ago, in the same location she had been establishing industry cred for 20 years, and created a neighborhood gem that is like stepping into a jewelry box. While the jewelry excites her, what she finds most rewarding are the relationships that have come from it. “The people keep me passionate. The people that I work with and everyone that comes in on a daily basis feed my soul,” she says. Through her boutique jewelry services, Dana has helped many from the Butler-Tarkington neighborhood and beyond with custom jewelry, engagement and bridal pieces, and family heirloom repairs.

As the name suggests, Petite G is not a large operation, and Dana prefers the small scale, which allows her to create and maintain authentic relationships with guests, employees and business partners alike. She carries small, trendsetting labels that often aren’t found anywhere else in the Midwest.

Petite G’s talented team, comprised mostly of females, features knowledgeable stylists and designers that treat the business as their own, a reflection of Dana’s leadership style.

Shop Petite G Jewelers in person at 5609 N. Illinois Street in Indianapolis or online at petiteg.com. Follow @petitegjewelers on Instagram for news, tips and the latest jewelry trends.

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THE FACE OF HAIRCARE Eva Harris, The Beauty Lounge Founder, Co-Owner and Visionary “Life-fulfilling work is never about the money. When you feel true passion for something, you instinctively find ways to nurture it.”

Eva Harris didn’t waste any time making her entrepreneurial dreams a reality, enrolling in cosmetology school two weeks after her high school graduation. She quickly went on to an apprenticeship program and opened her first hair studio when she was only 22 years old, gaining acclaim as one of the city’s elite stylists. The youngest of six kids, Eva is the only one of her siblings that didn’t attend a traditional college, and also the only one to found her own business.

“My dad was a successful business owner, so entrepreneurship has intrigued me from a young age,” says Eva, clarifying that she never had an interest in a corporate career.

For Eva, every day is different and the ever-evolving beauty industry keeps her motivated. The challenge of being a business owner is often wearing so many hats, and so she looks forward to her time behind the chair each day with her clients. “I love that I get to be creative, and that I am always learning,” says Eva, who encourages continual education with all of her staff and does a lot of mentoring with young stylists. She stays focused by practicing as much self-care as she has time for with physical exercise, facials, massages and therapy for her mental health. At home, Eva is raising a young daughter and has struggled with the guilt that comes with being a working mom, but encourages other moms to follow their desires, saying, “You aren’t just a mom—you can have aspirations, and it’s ok to work outside the home and fulfill those.”

Visit The Beauty Lounge, located at 2325 Pointe Parkway in Carmel for all of your hair and beauty needs. For more information or to book and appointment, log into www. beautyloungecarmel.com and follow @ tbl_carmel on Instagram for the latest styles and specials.

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THE FACE OF NON-SURGICAL AESTHETICS Cristina Wiseman, MSN, RN, CPNP, FNP-C The Beauty Lounge Co-Owner, Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner “To women pursuing the medical aesthetics industry as a Registered Nurse or Nurse Practitioner: Find a mentor, work for a dermatology or plastic surgery practice, gain your knowledge and expertise, know your anatomy and learn your artistry before you start.”

Cristina Wiseman, known as Crissy, understands the realities of aging, and knows that sometimes it is difficult to face. As an Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner specializing in non-surgical treatments, she loves that her expertise can impact the self-esteem of her clients and help them turn back the clock a few years in less than an hour. “I enjoy keeping up with the latest trends and techniques in the industry and offering only the best for my patients,” says Crissy, who ensures her team always has the highest level of training and is providing the safest possible care needed for any procedure they preform.

After 20 years in the nursing field, primarily working with pediatric trauma patients, Crissy came into the aesthetic industry by chance when she took a job in the plastic surgery department at Eskanazi/IU Health. She loved the positive effects her nursing had there (as opposed to the negative impact her former role had on her wellbeing), and was able to hone her skills and gain experience with some of the best plastic surgeons in the nation, including facial plastic surgeon Dr. Mark Hamilton. When she was offered an opportunity to partner with Eva Harris and expand services at The Beauty Lounge, Crissy was thrilled. Today, she manages day-to-day operations in the Medical Spa—evaluating patients, leading the skilled team and seeing patients herself. Services range from clinical facials and lasers to injectable fillers and PDO thread lifts. Crissy’s goal is to be the best MedSpa in the area, with a talented and welleducated staff offering outstanding services and delivering impressive results.

Visit the MedSpa inside The Beauty Lounge, located at 2325 Pointe Parkway in Carmel. For more information or to book and appointment, log into www.beautyloungecarmel.com and follow @aesthetically_wisenp on Instagram.

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THE FACE OF INTERIOR DESIGN Amanda Lantz, Lantz Collective Lead Designer and President “In the words of Coco Chanel, ‘Don’t be like the rest of them, darling.’”

Amanda Lantz admits she loves following trends, but she doesn’t live by them. “Good design should be timeless,” she says, and customizing unique designs that reflect the individual styles of her clients is always motivating her. Daughter of the celebrated local interior designer Barry Lantz, Amanda grew up in the design industry and remembers flipping through fabrics in the Kravet showroom at the Merchandise Mart in Chicago as a kid. She went on to earn a degree from Butler University, and her passion for fashion led her to Nordstrom, where she managed the personal styling department. During the recession in 2008, Amanda swore she would never own a business, but walked those words back several years later when the opportunity to take over her father’s business, A. Lantz Design, presented itself. “I realize now that there is nothing better—I absolutely love the business side of being an owner and entrepreneur,” says Amanda.

In addition to her father’s influence, Amanda’s grandmother Eileen left her mark on Amanda as a fashion maven. “She moved here from England to marry my grandpa and had the most fabulous women’s clothing store,” says Amanda. “I grew up watching her sell, style and develop friendships with her clients. It was a great experience.”

Drawing on those examples, Amanda has created a brand personalized to her clients’ taste, creating luxurious lifestyle designs that incorporate her expertise with their aesthetic. Amanda loves the reward of a satisfied client, and treasures the friendships she is creating through her growing business.

Look for the brightly colored door at Lantz Collective at Carmel City Center at 800 S. Rangeline Road, Veterans Way, Suite 250. You can find them online at www.lantzcollective.com and follow @ lantzcollective to see the expressive interiors on Instagram.

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THE FACE OF KITCHEN DESIGN Amy Kreutz, Conceptual Kitchens & Millwork Partner, Senior Designer "The ability to really listen will never go unnoticed."

Amy Kreutz has always been devoted to design, rearranging furniture and painting rooms on a whim as a child. She nurtured an obsession with AutoCAD as a teen, going on to win a National Kitchen and Bath Association award plus earning a degree in interior design from Ball State University as a young adult. She went on to sharpen her skills at the Merchandise Mart in Chicago, and after returning to her hometown of Indianapolis, has found a rewarding business partnership with Rob Klein at Conceptual Kitchens & Millwork. “Rob and I both work well through design collaboration and we have successfully fed off of each other's skill sets over the years,” says Amy. At CK&M, Amy and Rob seek to provide clients not only with impeccable design, but with a lifestyle experience. Their boutique design firm offers highly customized results and start-to-finish services that encompass every detail, starting with a clear understanding of how the space will be used. As the business has grown, so has the accomplished team, recently adding two more females to the mix. Design engineer Ashwini Kapale transforms design and engineering details into an accurate production packet with AutoCAD, resulting in a beautifully finished product. And interior designer Nikki Sutton brings a commercial architecture background and a dedication to design that fits not only the aesthetic, but also the culture at CK&M. “I’ve always worked best when amongst really good talent,” says Amy, noting that the group dynamic with these strong women in business is an invaluable asset.

Visit Conceptual Kitchens & Millwork in the Indiana Design Center, located at 200 South Rangeline Road in Carmel, Indiana.

To see some of Amy’s designs, visit www. conceptualkitchens.com and follow @ ckandm on Instagram.

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THE FACE OF FITNESS Cherie Palma, SPENGA Carmel Co-Owner and Head Instructor “Be steadfast in your principles and trust yourself.”

Personal trainer and fitness instructor Cherie Palma knows how to spend an hour. “SPENGA is the first studio of its kind to put equal focus on cardio, strength and flexibility all in one 60-minute workout,” explains the coowner and head instructor of the Clay Terrace facility that opened in 2019.

Cherie has been leading groups and helping others achieve their fitness goals for more than 20 years, teaching classes from yoga to cycling, but SPENGA (SPinning, strENgth and yoGA) is the workout that she fell in love with because it delivers maximum results without breaking down the body.

SPENGA has given Cherie the opportunity to make a living doing something that she loves, and the satisfaction of promoting something she believes in. “I knew after my first class that this is what I wanted to do,” she says. “I want to give women and men the tools to feel physically fierce and mentally strong—to build resilience through training that carries on into their daily lives.” The state-of-the-art SPENGA studio is unlike any other gym. The highend, spa-like atmosphere is welcoming and invigorating, and with the motto YOU vs. YOU, Cherie insists that it is a judgment–free zone. She, along with all of the instructors, encourages everyone in the classes to work at their own level, and then offers modifications and challenges as necessary. “The thing I love most about my job is making a difference in people's lives,” Cherie attests, saying that she is truly proud knowing SPENGA helps others reach their goals.

Ride, Rep and Revive at SPENGA Carmel, located at 14511 Clay Terrace Boulevard #150 in Carmel. For more information visit www.spengacarmel.com and follow @ spengacarmel on Instagram for the latest specials.

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THE FACE OF FINE GIFTS Claudia Ryan, Charles Mayer & Co. Owner “Consistently seek artistic inspiration to distinguish the brand and business as a leader in the tradition of luxury. Along the way, turn every challenge into an opportunity to adapt and reinvent the dream.”

Following in the footsteps of Charles Mayer, founder of the iconic Charles Mayer & Co. in downtown Indianapolis in 1840, Claudia Ryan hand-selects each piece she presents in today’s version of the luxury store.

This is one of the many personal touches distinguishing Claudia’s business from other gift stores. When Claudia revived the historic establishment that had been in her husband’s family for three generations, she wanted to continue the tradition of distinctive gifts and outstanding customer service. Her artistic vision includes an always-evolving mix of today’s designs with influences from the past, often visually juxtaposing traditional and modern elements with metals, textiles, colors, and textures. This present day version of Charles Mayer & Co. will celebrate 30 years in business next year, and just as the original store survived world wars and the Great Depression, she has thrived through several recessions and a global pandemic. Fads and trends aside, Charles Mayer & Co. offers only sophisticated merchandise that will never go out of style, from cosmopolitan tabletop and decorative accessories to European crystal, silver and china, to home furnishing and fabulous jewelry.

The daughter of a Navy Admiral, Claudia grew up traveling the world and was exposed to a myriad of different fashions, cultures and traditions. Later, her career as a Vice President and Fashion Merchandising Director for L.S. Ayres helped her develop an eye for fashion and design. Now, owning and operating a fashion lifestyle business allows her to uniquely express this vision with her talented team and as a mentor to young entrepreneurs.

Find beautiful things for a beautiful life at Charles Mayer & Co., located in the Shoppes at 56th and Illinois at 5629 N. Illinois Street in Indianapolis. You can also shop online at charlesmayer.com or follow @charlesmayerco on Instagram to see the latest offerings.

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THE FACES OF FINE ART Jean Easter and Barbara Gurwitz, Easter Conservation Services and Corporate Art Consultants Owners Jean: “Always listen to your clients and deliver the best possible product that you can.”

Barbara: “Find what interests you. If you like what you’re doing you’ll be better at it.”

Jean Easter has a knack for fixing things, especially when it comes to art. “I can’t discard something that has artistic life left in it. I like the healing process of making something whole again,” she says. After earning a degree in Restoration from the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City and working in frame conservation at the Indianapolis Museum of Art, Jean began Easter Conservation Services in 2001, where she specializes in museum quality conservation of frames, furniture, and a wide array of art objects, as well as matting and framing. She has traveled the world to study and assess techniques, and serves as a professional associate for the American Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works.

This past year, Jean expanded her fine art business, partnering with friend and fellow art lover Barbara Gurwitz to unveil Corporate Art Consultants. Barbara studied art in college, but went on to become a successful attorney, then pivoted to event planning. “I’ve been in different industries due to the times and due to my desires,” she says, adding that art has maintained her interest throughout. Corporate Art Consultants seeks to transform spaces and enrich lives through art. Whether your needs are in corporate or residential settings, or you are looking at art as an investment, Jean and Barbara offer end-toend services from education, conservation, selection, matting and framing, to installation and lighting. Barbara says, “We are excited to be a part of the community, and to improve quality of life through art.”

Stop by the gallery for all of your fine art needs, located at 1134 East 54th Street in Indianapolis. For more information visit www.easterconservation.com and www. corporateartconsultants.net or follow @ easter_conservation on Instagram.

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THE FACE OF FINE CHOCOLATES Lori Sonner, DeBrand Fine Chocolates of Indianapolis Partner "The recipe for success includes excellent products and high standards, but determination and dedication are also essential ingredients."

Lori Sonner has always had a keen eye for a sharp business, and when she first visited the flagship DeBrand Fine Chocolates shop in Fort Wayne, Indiana, twenty years ago she knew it was cutting-edge. She was not only sweet on the delicious chocolates and the elegant atmosphere, but she was also impressed with how the company operated.

She inquired about a partnership, but there was no interest at the time. Lori moved on to build a successful Pampered Chef business, but she never quite got over DeBrand.

In sales, Lori insists on being confident by offering the best product available. That is why she thrived with Pampered Chef, and it is what kept bringing her back to the high standards at DeBrand—there was no experience that compared. Cathy BrandBeere started the company in 1987, gaining business savvy from her entrepreneur mother, Mildred—founder of the Country Kitchen baking and candy supply, which is in fourth-generation operation today. In 2017 when the timing was right, Cathy invited Lori and her husband Bill into a partnership for an Indianapolis DeBrand location.

“It is fun to be a part of a local, yet worldclass business,” says Lori, who is thrilled to uphold the DeBrand name here. She adds, “I love helping make people happy through our chocolates.” The from-scratch artisanal chocolates, distinctive coffees, chocolate drinks and ice cream, as well as the signature DeBrand ambiance, chic party room, outstanding customer service, and dependable shipping are all conveniently available at the Indianapolis location.

For corporate gifting consultations or to place an order to ship, visit the Indianapolis DeBrand Fine Chocolates store at 8685 River Crossing Boulevard or call 317-669-0955.

Log onto www.debrand.com/river-crossing/ for more information.

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SCULPTING BODIES CHANGING LIVES

USHER IN AUTUMN

By Susan Salaz

Fill your fall bucket list with more

A

s the leaves begin to change from their vibrant greens to warmer autumn hues, as the humidity that marks every good Indiana summer fades away with the falling temperatures, and as the smell of pumpkin spice can be found just about anywhere, you know fall is upon us. This yearly routine is usually welcomed with cozy sweaters, waterproof boots, and obligatory trips to the apple orchard. We love all of those things, but this year, consider adding something new to your list of autumnal aspirations.

At Newfields, the quintessential pumpkin patch experience is reimagined in their Harvest celebration. Every weekend in October, guests can explore horticulture displays featuring thousands of locally grown pumpkins and other fall florals, while sipping warm cider or specialty Sun King brews and listening to live music during Harvest Days. For a spookier scene, plan an evening sojourn to Harvest Nights and immerse yourself in a land of spectral sights and sounds, including the Instagramworthy glow of endless jack-o-lanterns.

See the colorful fall foliage and spectacular Indiana sunsets with a bird’s eye view on a hot air balloon tour with Midwest Balloon Rides, located in Fishers. This family-owned and operated (promotional content)

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Images courtesy of Newfields

than just apples this year.

Enjoy all that fall in central Indiana has to offer! business is known by balloon enthusiasts around the country as one of the best, and offers private rides, shared excursions and homestead flights to see your favorite haunts from above.

Learn about Indigenous American traditions and art at the Eiteljorg Museum. Join our Latinx community on October 30th for free admission to the museum and the Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) Community Celebration to learn more about this festive tradition through live performances and demonstrations. While you’re there, visit the Powerful Women II exhibit to see dynamic contemporary artworks by Black, Latina, AsianAmerican and European-American women.

You can’t go wrong with a corn maze, especially in Indiana. While there are plenty of places to get lost locally, a trip to Exploration Acres in Lafayette is worth the drive. Home to a 22-acre corn maze (the state’s largest), this year’s design features a race care and 10 miles of trails. The farm also includes a pumpkin patch, country store and a variety of children’s activities. You can even unwind after a memorable day at one of the reservable fire pits.

Take a tour right here in your hometown on one of the many trails that the City of Carmel has to offer. Pedal, walk, jog or rollerblade through nature on the Monon Greenway, pour over the area’s locally owned brewery and wineries on the Brews and Barrels Trail, and stay on your toes with stops at all of the town’s tasty coffee and tea shops on the Carmel Caffeine Trail. In Fishers, hop on the Sullivan Express to Pumpkintown at Allisonville Home & Garden by Sullivan and enjoy a Halloween-themed train ride with activities for the entire family.

For a luxurious getaway this season visit French Lick Resort in Southern Indiana. From the historic West Baden Springs Hotel and its relaxing spa services to the thrilling table games, French Lick is a fun fall getaway. As the crisp air makes way for winter, the annual Polar Express Train Ride at the French Lick Scenic Railway, which opens November 5th, is the perfect way for families to begin ringing in the holiday spirit.

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