WINTER FUN & FESTIVALS pg. 18
BRINGING HOPE TO WOMEN pg. 30
STAY WARM WITH IPSI pg. 40
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WINTER issue // THEHOMEPUBLICATIONS.COM Rochester | WINTER 2024 1
Whether your space is large or small, create a warm and inviting environment to be enjoyed all year-round for many years to come.
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contents
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Create the perfect reading nook with @TheBecklerAbode
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UNLOCK THE ROMANCE
WINTER FUN & FESTIVALS
MORE THAN A SALON
BRINGING HOPE TO WOMEN
Spark your creativity with these unique Valentine’s Day Adventures
Find warmth in winter with these fun local activities - mark your calendars
Toni Coleman shares RocHAUS Collective’s artistic fusion and commitment
Home Start Hope: Helping women transition from homelessness to independent living
ON THE COVER
4 WINTER 2024 | Rochester
Concept II Closets: Adrienne Cooper and Dave Weston
Refresh. Redesign. Consign. Buy Earth Friendly.
A Second Life for Fine Furnishings
Sequels features stylish and unusual furniture and home accessories from quality brands like Stickley, Ethan Allen, Arhaus, MacKenzie-Childs and more. Find quality consignment home décor and gifts at surprisingly reasonable prices.
Visit our showroom or shop online! 3450 W INTON PLACE, BRIGHTON | 5 8 5 .9 3 5 .7 2 9 7 SE QU E LSHOMEFURN ISHIN GS.COM Rochester | WINTER 2024 5
from the home team
SNOW PROBLEM, ROC! JUST A FE W OF M Y FAVORI T E T H IN G S
There is no winter like a WNY winter, though! If I’m not home with a Saturday crockpot of soup (some recipes have come from this very magazine!), I love to get out and explore the area. A trek down the Erie Canal is a wonderful gateway to a natural winter wonderland, and Schoen Place in Pittsford or Main Street in Fairport are excellent places to grab a quick bite to warm up. Winter is also the perfect time to check out our local museums like the Strong National Museum of Play or the RMSC Strasenburgh Planetarium for a day of indoor exploration. Rochester offers so much to do this time of year, with no shortage of fun, local activities and hot spots to try out. That’s why our first edition this year is Winter Fun / Show the Love!
Thi�
time of year can be hard—the buzz from the holidays has worn off, everyone seems to hibernate, and we’re left with a dreary, cold mess. The bright sun betrays the bitter cold, the kind that comes with a bite the moment you step outside. Don’t get me wrong. I also love it! There is something special about winter: it’s a promise of new beginnings, with the days getting a little longer and the sun shining just a little brighter. It’s very fitting for the new year too, as we walk into 2024 with our heads held high and leave a trail of footprints in fresh snow that is uniquely ours.
Craft a perfect date night (or three), check out some local winter events, immerse yourself in a good book with tips on creating your own personal reading nook at home, and join us in spotlighting community members! Showing love doesn’t have to be romantic—we can all do it in our own way, every day. Take a deep breath of that winter air and start blazing your own trail in the snow. Or maybe take a friend, because some journeys are best taken together.
n e a t t r in ke ts One World Goods in Pittsford Plaza is the perfect place to find neat trinkets you won’t get anywhere else. I love their collection of handmade earrings from around the world.
However you choose to spend your winter, I hope you stay warm and cozy, and welcome Home!
-�aitli�
CO NTEENT RI TE CONT NT W WRI T ERR
Do you love WNY? Join us as a freelance writer to create inspirational, uplifting content about the cities we love. Email a cover letter and two writing samples to our content manager at: suziew@featuredmedia.com 6 WINTER 2024 | Rochester
c af e s as s o With their cozy atmosphere and unique local art adorning the walls, Cafe Sasso on Park Ave is one of my favorite spots to grab a hot drink! My go-to is their Gatsby, a hot white chocolate + lavender latte perfect for fighting off the chill.
pajama day My tried-and-true method of making the most of a dreary Saturday is cozying up on the couch with a warm fire and a good book! Nothing beats a good old pajama day.
W H AT IS YOUR GO -T O SNOW DA Y A C T IV IT Y ?
SALES CARMEN CAMPBELL CHRISTINE WHITE LAURIE ABBOTT MACKENZIE MCGRAIN Hot chocolate + movie day
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on the cover
CONCEPT II CLOSETS: AFFORDABLE CUSTOM STORAGE SOLUTIONS The new year allows us to reset our homes after the hustle and bustle of the holidays with resolutions to organize our belongings. When decluttering and cleaning out, the process begins well before tossing, donating, and sorting through items. It starts with having the right storage systems in place to maximize the space available within your home. No one knows this better than the team at Concept II Closets. They are the experts in home organization, providing custom closet and storage solutions to homeowners across the area. A division of the premier design-build studio, Concept II Kitchen & Bath, the closet division launched in 2018 to bring high-quality storage solutions to the Rochester market. CEO Ross Pino says, “Homeowners are looking for alternative options for their closet and storage needs. Our clients trust us to come into their homes and make their kitchens, bathrooms, and living spaces more beautiful and functional, and closets are a natural extension of that. From master walk-ins and bedroom reach-ins to pantries and mudrooms – the possibilities of how you can incorporate custom storage solutions are endless.”
Rochester | WINTER 2024 9
FOCUSED ON QUALITY AND SERVICE For over 50 years, Concept II has been the preferred home renovation destination for homeowners, designers, architects, and tradespeople because of their attention to detail, quality craftsmanship and commitment to excellence. They bring the same expertise and care to the closet business, with a dedication to each client and unique project, ensuring they not only meet but exceed expectations. As a local, family-owned company with strong ties to the Rochester area, the level of service and quality each client receives is superior to other options. Dave Weston, Operations Manager at Concept II, says, “There is no one solution that works for everyone. Each project we work on is customized to the unique needs of our clients.” Featuring more than 35 finish options and Germanengineered hardware, the design possibilities are endless. Pair that with veteran installation teams, a dedicated project manager, and short lead times, and it’s no wonder Concept II Closets is becoming the top choice for customized storage solutions in the area.
FREE DESIGN CONSULTATION Visitors to the showroom find a wide variety of closet displays to showcase the range of modular options available. Closet Designer for Concept II, Adrienne Cooper, says, “Many people don’t realize we have storage systems for every space of the home. From standard reach-in and customizable walk-in closets to pantries, mudrooms, and even garages – our showroom serves as a source of inspiration to see the possibilities of what can be done.” From there, the designers at Concept II schedule a free, in-home consultation to view your space and make recommendations. There, they get a better idea of your needs, budget, and timeline to best transform your space into a well-designed and organized room.
Kate Deasy (Installer) collaborating with Dave Weston (Operations Manager)
10 WINTER 2024 | Rochester
We were so pleased with the results of our master closet. The team was extremely professional and the design and installation process was seamless. – CONCEPT II CLIENT
UNEXPECTED STORAGE SOLUTIONS Concept II’s designers shared some unexpected storage solutions to make the best use of space and tackle clutter once and for all! Convert a Spare Room into a Master Closet: “One consistent trend we continue to see is clients converting an unused spare bedroom or office into a walk-in closet,” Adrienne shares. Although many people don’t think they have a large enough space, everyone typically has a spare room they are not using and can convert that into their dream closet. Multipurpose Rooms: These have become very popular with people adding Murphy beds into an unused room to quickly accommodate guests. Clients also use these rooms as opportunities to add cabinets, shelving, or even small islands to provide hidden storage that can accommodate crafting and gift-wrapping needs. Working Pantries: An emerging kitchen trend is adding a working pantry to store food purchased in bulk as well as small appliances and extra serving dishes. Many pantries even include countertops and areas for food prep and clean up. These are often areas tucked away when not in use, but readily accessible when needed. Garage Storage: Garages are used to store such a wide array of items – from car necessities and snow gear to sports equipment, lawn clean up, and tools – it can be difficult to find a solution that works for so many different things. Adding a slatwall, overhead racks, cabinets, drawers, or bins can help give a home to each item, making it easier to find and more likely to be put away. Mudroom: Whether it’s a foyer, laundry area, or entryway, mudrooms can quickly turn into a cluttered mess. An organized mudroom often features dedicated cabinetry, storage racks, shelving, drawers, and cubbies to make putting coats, hats, shoes, and backpacks away simpler and easier to access when needed.
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local life
Winter Day in Pittsford on the Erie Canal
pg. 14 Unique Date Night Ideas in Rochester pg. 18 Enjoying the Chilly Season
12 WINTER 2024 | Rochester
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UNLEASH THE ROMANCE
Unique Date Night Ideas in Rochest� Spark Your Creativity
We all know how busy life gets, and with a never-ending to-do list, it can be difficult to prioritize social events. With holidays like Valentine’s Day, it can be particularly challenging to find new and creative ways to celebrate with your loved one.
We are fortunate to have several local art studios and creative spaces in the Rochester area, and they are great places to go for a unique date night. If you are a fan of painting but don’t feel confident with a brush, consider checking out Painting with A Twist, a studio in Greece that offers guided classes. With stepby-step instructions, you and your date will create a beautiful painting in just a few hours. If it fits your fancy and you are at least 21 years old, you may also bring your own wine or beer. Painting with a Twist already has several date night classes, so be sure to register at paintingwithatwist.com.
Have no fear, because here in Rochester, we have lots of great ways to make the month of love a memorable, fun, no-stress adventure with your special someone. Whether you sample a cooking class, go out for an art night, or spend time outdoors, there are plenty of activities in Rochester that can make the perfect date night.
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Another great option for a couple’s art night is at Flower City Arts Center in the Upper Monroe neighborhood. With a large selection of classes to choose from, this location is great for date night throughout the year. Register at flowercityarts.org for more information. Rochester is also home to the Arc + Flame Center, which offers creative opportunities for those who are interested in a truly hands-on experience. “Couples can have a unique date night experience at Arc + Flame, creating keepsake objects in our welding, smithing, and glass shops,” says Executive Director, Michael Krupnicki. The best part is that you and your date will create something durable and beautiful together to keep as a memory. Visit rocafc.com to plan your date night.
14 WINTER 2024 | Rochester
New Adventures Try something new together! To–quite–literally be swept off your feet, discover fun at Aerial Arts of Rochester. This center offers classes in aerial silks, trapeze, pole dancing classes, bungee, and more! Check out Aerial Arts’ Burr-lesque Festival with local vendors and workshops available to explore with your loved one. For more information, visit aerialartsrochester.com.
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Of course, a great date night may include delicious food, so the two of you could take a cooking class at the New York Kitchen in Canandaigua! They’re hosting a Valentine’s Date Night on Thursday, February 15th, from 6-8 pm, where you can make a delicious meal paired with a complementary glass of regional wine. Visit nykitchen.com to start planning.
Finally, nothing says romance like starlight. On February 14th, attend the Rochester Museum & Science Center’s Valentine’s Dinner Under the Stars in the Strasenburgh Planetarium. Spend an intimate evening in the Star Theater while enjoying a threecourse meal, with dessert and wine service. Do you think your love is written in the stars? Try your luck and discover the perfect evening together. Visit rmsc.org for more information.
A Date to Remember While Valentine’s Day is just a single day, the memories you make with your loved one will last for years to come. Time spent together is time well spent, and here in Rochester, there are so many wonderful ways to honor and commemorate your relationship. This year step out of your comfort zone and try something new. . . .
Check our events page to find mo�e local ideas!
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BY HELANA SHUMWAY
ENJOYING THE
CHILLY SEASON 18 WINTER 2024 | Rochester
Those of us who consider Rochester our home are certainly no strangers to winter weather. From steady snowfall, chilly winds, and icicles galore, Rochesterians know how to endure a long winter season. On the flip side, we also know how to capitalize on activities during the colder months. This winter season is no exception. With many events planned over the next several months, make sure to mark your calendar for the Lakeside Winter Celebration at Ontario Beach Park, the Fire & Ice Winter Festival in Downtown Canandaigua, and the Ice Wine & Culinary Festival at Casa Larga Vineyards in Fairport.
FEB. 17-18
CANANDAIGUA’S FIRE & ICE FESTIVAL
The Fire & Ice Festival in downtown Canandaigua includes two days of fun, entertainment, and togetherness with family and friends. One of the festival’s biggest crowd pleasers, check out the ice carving competition on Saturday, when incredibly talented carvers compete all day, crafting their magic and vying for the winning title. There will also be speed carving competitions, which include two carvers, fifteen minutes of high stakes, and one winner! Right on Main Street, enjoy fire shows, warm beverage trails, Siberian husky dogsled teams, and the “SOUPerb” Food Challenge. Local chefs will participate in the festival, and all local shops will be open for business and ready to welcome you. Be sure to come back Sunday to see the ice carvings lining the street and notice with fresh eyes how they changed! This festival has something for everyone. Enjoy the idyllic streets of Canandaigua on foot or on horse and wagon rides. Amid our colder months, come warm your spirits for a weekend you won’t forget.
Rochester | WINTER 2024 19
WINTER FUN IN ROC
Seize the opportunity of the snowfall to organize a snowman-building extravaganza or make it a friendly competition. Essential tools include waterproof gloves, buckets for snow transportation, shovels, and carving tools. Don’t forget accessories to add flair to your snowy creation. Grab a sled and visit a few local spots, including Mendon Ponds Park, which has slopes for beginners or steep drops for thrill-seekers. Check out Cobbs Hill Park, Ellison Park, Black Creek Park, or Northampton Park in Ogden for some more stops. If you don’t love sledding, grab a pair of snowshoes and head for the trails in the park. Drawing inspiration from WinterFest events, plan a neighborhood winter fest right in your area. Bring out fire pits or outdoor propane heaters for warmth and set up stations serving hot cocoa, cider, and comforting treats. Use slow cookers to keep soups, chilis, and stews warm. Whether indoors or outdoors, ice skating is a perfect winter activity. A popular outdoor rink that is beautiful in the winter is the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park Ice Rink in Downtown Rochester, open till March 10th, or enjoy an open skate at the Tim Hortons Iceplex and enroll your child in their Skating 101 classes.
ONTARIO BEACH PARK LAKESIDE WINTER CELEBRATION Hosted by the Ontario Beach Park Program Committee and Special Olympics New York, this annual celebration in the beginning of February offers activities for everyone. Enjoy ‘rockin’ music throughout the afternoon in the heated festival tent, and don’t forget to bring your skates and glide over the ice at the countyoperated rink in the park. For snow sculpture enthusiasts, there’s an annual contest with a professional snow sculptor creating a huge masterpiece and providing tips to amateur contestants. Enjoy wine and craft beer tastings, along with other tasty treats. For the past three decades, the iconic Chilly Chili Challenge has drawn a familyfriendly crowd. Contestants in the contest each make fifteen gallons of their delicious chili, so there is certainly plenty to go around! 20 20 WINTER WINTER 2024 2024 || Rochester Rochester
Mark your calendar for Rochester’s Annual Polar Plunge where hundreds of brave and enthusiastic participants run into the lake to benefit the Special Olympics! A fun, thrilling, and memorable experience for everyone.
NYS ICE WINE & CULINARY FESTIVAL AT CASA LARGA VINEYARDS New York State is one of the few places in the world that produces ice wine, because ice wine production, traditionally known as the German Eiswein method, is a delicate process. Andrea O’Neill, Director of Marketing at Casa Larga explains, “The grapes must be frozen on the vine and picked and pressed within hours of the first freeze. It is a very laborintensive and weather-dependent process, so very few wineries even attempt ice wine. New York is one of the few places in the entire world with the climate to support ice wine production.” Visit Casa Larga Vineyards in Fairport on Saturday, March 2nd for the 29th Annual New York Ice Wine & Culinary Festival. Wine connoisseur or not, this is an event you won’t want to miss. During the festival, come taste the product of that hard work right in our backyard. Sample the sweet ice wines produced at Casa Larga Vineyards and other wineries in New York State. With two 3-hour sessions available, enjoy wine tastings, savor small plate menus from the Bella Vista Chef, tour the vineyard, shop local vendors, and more. Don’t forget to try the Ice Festival Official Cocktail, which will include an ice wine in the recipe! While this year’s cocktail has yet to be finalized, last year’s included Pom Pom Ice, 1 oz Vidal ice wine, 1 oz pomegranate juice, and 2 oz club soda (or ginger ale) in a short cocktail glass garnished with pomegranate seeds. For more information and to buy tickets, visit casalarga.com.
Rochester | WINTER 2024 21
22 WINTER 2024 | Rochester
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Strawberry Crinkle Cookies
. . .
1 box of strawberry cake mix (15.25 ounces) 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted 2 large eggs 2 tablespoons lemon juice 3/4 cup powdered sugar Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat and preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Combine the cake mix, butter, eggs, and lemon juice together in a medium sized mixing bowl and combine. Use a 2 TBSP cookie scoop (if you have one) to create cookie dough balls the same size. You can use a 1 tablespoon cookie scoop to yield more (smaller) cookies, but definitely decrease the baking time by 1-2 minutes). Chill the dough for 30 minutes to prevent stickiness. Roll the cookie dough balls in the powdered sugar until they are completely coated and place them about 2 inches apart on the baking sheet. Bake for 11 minutes at 350 degrees. Remove from the oven and let cool completely on the baking sheet. Enjoy!
View more delicious recipes! WISHESNDISHES.COM WISHESNDISHES Rochester | WINTER 2024 23
self-care
pg. 25 The RocHAUS Collective Community pg. 27 Toni Coleman’s Tips for Healthy Hair During the Winter
24 WINTER 2024 | Rochester
ARTISTIC FUSION & COMMUNITY COMMITMENT The newly opened RocHAUS Collective in Springhouse Commons Plaza has quickly become more than a typical salon. Owner Toni Coleman’s vision was to create a space that goes beyond skin deep beauty, fostering collaboration with artists, non-profits, female entrepreneurs, and local businesses.
with Toni Coleman
Coleman reflects on her journey: “If anyone told me five months ago where I would be right now, I would have laughed.” A Rochester native, Coleman believes her life is proof that one’s starting point does not dictate their outcome. Her childhood passion for collecting unique objects fueled her creative imagination, and inspired the interior design of the space in Springhouse Commons Plaza. Rochester | WINTER 2024 25
Coleman says she’s a bit “obsessed with interior design and art,” so in curating every detail of the stunning interior, Coleman says the space is “a collection of all [her] favorite things under one roof.” The interior uses sand-colored hues and organic textures to reflect nature. She explains that her design, blending vintage items she’s collected over the years with modern elements, represents “the ebb and flow of life and the ever-evolving process of living.” Coleman’s goal is to create a communal space where people can relax and feel pampered, taking a moment for themselves despite the hustle and bustle of the day’s multi-tasking. The salon even features a diverse selection of teas, seltzers, and wine to add to the ambiance. Coleman prides herself on supporting the overall well-being of all who walk through the doors. At 55, she says she embraces the beauty of imperfections and recognizes the adage, ‘When one door closes, another door opens.’ When the salon she worked at for twenty years closed abruptly, Coleman says all the stylists had “such a beautiful connection of friendship that we couldn’t imagine no longer working together.” That sparked Coleman’s inspiration for RocHAUS Collective. Coleman explains that each stylist now at the salon played a key role in creating the Collective. Stephanie Wishmere, her husband and father-in-law did the plumbing and installation of the shampoo area and the backroom with Plumbing Plus. Krystle Elliott’s husband designed and installed the exterior sign, door decals, business cards, and gift certificates with Rotolite. MaryLynn Aureli’s family business, Aureli Landscaping, did the incredible gardening of the front beds and the tile work inside. And Sherrie Carr’s family electrician business, Canal Town Electric, provided the lighting arrangements and electrical work throughout the salon. Together, through everyone’s hard work, RocHAUS Collective came together. Coleman says though some may call it luck that everything worked out as it did, she credits it to intention, fate, and community. She says, “Do all the things you love and are drawn to. It’s for a reason and a purpose.” RocHAUS Collective’s success extends beyond hairstyling inspired by NYC and European style influences. Coleman says it’s always about so much more than hair. For her, it’s about female empowerment, creativity, and community. HONEOYE REMEDIES
The salon and its mission organically connects with local businesses and non-profits, while expanding their artistry to make others feel better about themselves. This message has already garnered attention from local beauty and wellness advocates. She says, “There has been a niche and need that has been missing. If you build it, they will come.” The Rochester Candle Company, Honeoye Remedies, Divanna Chocolates, and artisans like ceramist Suzanne Kumar have all fused their brands with the RocHAUS Collective name. The salon’s impact goes beyond business relationships, too, as Coleman actively supports non-profits such as Gilda’s Club, YWCA, and Cameron House Ministries. She says, “I know what a new hairdo does for someone. Your external appearance impacts your psyche. It can be so empowering.” It’s not uncommon for Coleman to give her own time and care to help women who’ve recently undergone chemotherapy style and care for their wigs. She explains that being responsible for self-care contributes to a person’s overall health and well-being, which makes taking care of someone’s appearance a very personal act. In addition, for the past ten years, Coleman has collaborated with Gilda’s Club for their famed annual fashion show. She admits that she has a soft spot for helping out young women in particular, and has volunteered her skills often to support young female entrepreneurs. Looking ahead, Coleman plans to host a book club focusing on female empowerment and wellness in the new year. RocHAUS Collective, a blend of New York City and European influences, represents an enhanced salon experience with a commitment to empowering women.
26 WINTER 2024 | Rochester
A P L AC E W H E R E
hair meets art, AND
salon meets soul. xoxo, Toni
T O N I ’ S T I P S F O R H E A LT H Y H A I R T O C O M B AT W I N T E R D R Y N E S S The health of your scalp matters. Your scalp is like the soil. It needs to be nourished and treated to grow. Start by incorporating a scalp exfoliating scrub into your shampoo days. Apply shampoo to your wet hair, work into a lather, then apply Neuma’s ReNeu Exfoliate Scalp Therapy directly onto your scalp. This product contains a blend of plant extracts and essential oils that gently exfoliate to remove buildup and residue. It revitalizes the scalp, increasing blood flow to help stimulate growth. This will soothe inflammation or irritation, promoting a healthy scalp environment. Try NOT to use extremely hot water, as this can strip the hair. Rinse and follow up with a deep nourishing treatment. Comb gently through the mid-lengths and ends of your hair. Do a cool rinse. Apply a leave in conditioner. Use desired styling products. Always use a heat protectant if using a blowdryer or heat stylers such as flat or curling irons. Maintain regular trims.
ROCHAUS.SALON FOLLOW ON IG: @THEREALTONI68 // @ROCHAUSCOLLECTIVE Rochester | WINTER 2024 27
for the home
pg. 30 Home Start Hope is Supporting Women and Children pg. 37 @TheBecklerAbode Shares How to Create the Perfect Reading Nook
28 WINTER 2024 | Rochester
ROCHESTER’S LARGEST COLLECTION OF TILE
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S TA R T H E OP M O E H
BRINGING HOPE TO WOMEN One Table at a Time BY TRISH PINO
30 WINTER 2024 | Rochester
H O M E S TA R T H O P E S U P P O R T S W O M E N A N D CHILDREN IN THEIR TRANSITION FROM HOMELESSNESS TO INDEPENDENT LIVING
A
ccording to the U.S Census Bureau, nearly half of all children in Rochester live in poverty. This staggering number is the second highest in the nation among mid-to-large cities, and emergency shelters are bursting as homelessness continues to rise in Monroe County.
While there are many reasons a family may end up in this situation, domestic violence is the leading cause of homelessness among women. Emergency shelters throughout the area provide temporary housing, assistance, and support, but women who leave those facilities often lack the items necessary to move into their own homes. That’s where Home Start Hope comes in. Since its inception in 2010, the organization gives women the essentials they need through a personal shopping experience. The women referred to Home Start Hope shop in the Rochester store, selecting everything they need to start over in their new home, including essentials such as towels, bedding, pots and pans, dishes, baking supplies, laundry baskets, shower curtains, and much more, all for free. While picking out home essentials may seem simple, for women starting over, it’s so much more than that. The entire process is designed to empower women by giving them a sense of ownership while restoring confidence, giving them and their children hope for a brighter future. It has a transformative effect on families starting anew and helps build a community where more women can thrive. President and CEO Kristin Mathis says, “Our story begins with the women. They are from different backgrounds, all different ages and races, but all of them have dealt with some pretty traumatic experiences. We believe women deserve the chance to rebuild their lives regardless of how they got to where they are. We lead without judgement to provide the support they so desperately need.”
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3 RD A N N U A L TA B L E S C A P E S E V E N T This year, Home Start Hope will host its 3rd Annual Tablescapes event, bringing members of the community together with interior designers, florists, event planners, and boutique shop owners to raise money for Home Start Hope. Event proceeds purchase household items given to families and to stock the store, as well as to move the gently used furniture. This year’s event will be held in May at Oak Hill Country Club, where attendees will enjoy hors d’oeuvres and drinks while admiring the beautifully designed tables. This year will also feature a VIP reception that includes breakfast and mimosas, as well as a preview of the tables.
. . . Tablescapes: There’s No Place Like Home Sunday, May 5, 2024 Oak Hill Country Club To learn more, design a table or attend the event, visit homestarthope.org. This year alone, Home Start Hope has helped more than 160 women and over 300 children get the support they need to live on their own. In 2023, they launched a new program called Hope Furnished to provide new and gently used furnishings to the community of women and children they help. This new program serves as an extension of the services they provide to give basic home furnishings and household supplies to women in need. Core to its mission, the new program helps further fill the need of basics that women don’t typically have when getting back on their feet, such as beds to sleep in, dressers to store clothes in, tables and chairs to share a meal around, or sofas to sit with their families on. These and other items help make a house a home and create a personalized experience for each of the families the organization works with. To get involved with Home Start Hope, whether volunteering to shop with the women, participating in Tablescapes, or donating money or furniture, your contribution goes a long way! Your donation ensures Home Start Hope can continue to provide this life-changing experience for more women and children. Contact Kristin Mathis to help at mathis@homestarthope.org or call 585-506-5003!
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Creating the Perfect
Reading Nook with @TheBecklerAbode During the cold winter season, there’s no better cure than cozying up by the fire or in your favorite chair with a good book and your favorite warm drink. Perhaps no one knows this better than Sarah Beckler of @TheBecklerAbode, whose Instagram features DIY projects with step-by-step progress.We sat down for some insight on crafting the coziest of reading nooks right in your own home!
BY KAITLIN DONNAN
What inspired @TheBecklerAbode?
I’ve always been a serial furniture arranger, and I’ve always had a love for all things home. In 2019, we moved into a house that hadn’t been updated in the 30+ years since it was built and, needless to say, it needed some modernizing. We wanted to put our own touch on it and make it ours. My father-in-law was an electrician and handy himself, and we were fortunate to find ourselves with a home that needed updating and a basement full of tools. I asked my husband to show me how to use a
miter saw, and from there, my passion for home became a passion for DIY as I learned to use power tools and started making this house our home.
What’s your secret to picking the coziest reading nook?
There are a couple things you want to think about when choosing the space. First is the noise level: Is there somewhere in your home that is quiet and peaceful, away from distractions? Next is physical space: Is there space for a comfy chair or small sofa, maybe a bookcase, and some lighting? It’s also good if the space is near a window to provide natural light. Rochester | WINTER 2024 37
Planning is key. Set a budget, working
What are your biggest tips through as many project costs ahead of time for someone doing DIY (materials, tools, etc.), and allocate funds for different parts of the project. There on a budget to get the are always hiccups or unexpected things most out of a project? that pop up, so plan for that too! I would recommend using quality materials, though, and not opt for cheaper ones.
In the long run, cheaper materials will require more upkeep/replacement/ etc. and end up costing more. Thrifting can be good to find things at a lower cost that can be repurposed or restored. There also tend to be more unique finds, adding more character and personality to your home! Borrow tools from friends or family members. (Or rent them from your local hardware store at a fraction of their cost.)
Recommendations for ways to cozy up with a good book?
I love a big, oversized chair or chaise in a reading nook; something soft and comfortable but also supportive. If you have the room for it, a small sofa can be a great place to lounge and read! I especially love bouclé and velvet fabrics this time of year. A lumbar pillow provides extra support for your lower back while adding an aesthetic touch. A soft, cozy blanket is also a must!
My dad is my biggest influence. He renovated our home as I grew up, room by room, and some of my favorite childhood memories are of living in the midst of renovation chaos! It can be a fun and creative way to add character and warmth. I like to start with color to personalize a space. If you prefer a cozy, warm vibe, use colors like earthy browns, rust, or mustard. If you prefer a more calming atmosphere, use blues, greens, or grays.
What are your favorite ways to make a nook feel uniquely yours?
For décor, add a few decorative pillows and artwork you love. If the space is near a window, hang curtains to add texture and depth (I love linen fabric for curtains). With pillows, I love the character that kilim pillows add. I would incorporate a plant or some sort of greenery, even if it’s fake—there are really great faux options that look very real if taking care of live plants is not your thing. Greenery adds a relaxing freshness to the space. Bookshelves help keep spaces organized and give another opportunity to express your personality. Have fun with the way you organize your books and fill the shelves with décor pieces that are meaningful to you.
38 WINTER 2024 | Rochester
How do we find more of your house projects?
Follow along with the fun @TheBecklerAbode on IG Rochester | WINTER 2024 39
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