Birmingham, AL May 2021

M AY 2 02 1

Called to Minister to Women:

Brenda Lovelady Spahn

LI F E + C U LTU R E C RE AT IVI T Y, I N G EN U I T Y, L E AD ERSH I P: T H E AN N UAL L AD I ES IS SU E S T Y LE + B E AUT Y C US T O M IZ E YO U R M O M MY M AK EOVER

Michael Maniscalco DMD, MAGD offers quality cosmetic dentistry services in the Birmingham area. Our compassion for our patients and level of personalized services is unrivaled, and it shows in the care we provide.

Beautifying your smile may be very simple. If you would like to enhance your smile call us for a consultation.

Come see why people of all walks of life choose Dr. Maniscalco to enhance their smile.

“I used to never smile. Several people kept recommending Dr. Maniscalco.

He is so meticulous and he listens so well. My new smile exceeds my imagination. I could not be more pleased. Dr. Maniscalco definitely changed my life.”

Liz Burleson-Barrett

CEO, Big Moe Springs and Alignment of Birmingham Inc.

Before

• Native of Birmingham • American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry since 1993 • Over 30 years focusing on Smile Design • Master of the Academy of General Dentistry • Official Dentist for Miss Alabama USA , Miss Alabama Teen USA, and Mrs. Alabama USA. Michael Maniscalco DMD, MAGD

3419 Colonnade Parkway, Suite 700, Birmingham, Alabama 35243

205.967.9100 | greatsmilesbirmingham.com

LIFESTYLE LETTER Photo by Jenn Cady Photography.

MAY 2021 PUBLISHER

J Shay Langley | shay.langley@lifestylepubs.com EDITOR

Hear Us Roar

Denise K. James | denise.james@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER

Miranda Read

WELCOME TO OUR ANNUAL LADIES ISSUE, FILLED WITH CONTENT TO

L AYO UT DESIGNER

INSPIRE WOMANKIND. What does it mean to be a woman today? The answer is,

Dana Rudolph

of course, anything you want it to mean – whether that's being married, unmarried, a

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

mother, child-free, a business owner, an artist, a loner or whatever else might strike your fancy and speak to you. And the meaning can evolve throughout life.

This is my first time writing the lifestyle letter, and I'm excited to share my thoughts on

Denise K James CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Wick Oliver

what's inside. Our cover story, an interview with Brenda Lovelady Spahn, is a reminder that everyone can blossom under compassionate circumstances. Elsewhere in this edition, you'll meet local women who have started businesses, mentored their younger counterparts, fostered social change and much more. It's a powerful message, tucked inside of this issue. It's one that I hope we'll all take to heart.

As always, Shay and I hope you enjoy the issue. We're delighted to have you as our readers.

Yours, Denise K. James Editor

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MASSACHUSETTS | MICHIGAN MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA | NEVADA | NEW JERSEY NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON | PENNSYLVANIA SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

CityLifestyle.com/BirminghamAL Proverbs 3:5-6 Birmingham Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via

ON THE COVER Brendy Lovelady Spahn PHOTOGRAPHY BY WICK OLIVER 4

Birmingham Lifestyle | May 2021

the US Postal Service to some of the Birmingham areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors.

Information in Birmingham Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

Find Your Kiva.

Just minutes away from Gulf Shores,

food service delivered on the beach. With houses and condos to rent, you will find the perfect accommodations for your next family vacation.

CityLifestyle.com/BirminghamAL

5

INSIDE THE ISSUE MAY 2021

FEATURES 12 Stronger, Smarter and Bolder in the Magic City Girls Inc. of Birmingham

14 Called to Minister to Women 20 Bringing About Change Through Leadership A Conversation with Momentum CEO April Benetollo

14 12

24 If You Build It, They Will Come How Two Local Women Created Their Business Vision

20

24

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

8

Around Town

10

Trend Setter

12

City Scene

20 Inspired By 24 Local Limelight 28 Renovate & Refine 34 Lifestyle Calendar

Sleek, timeless style to complement your home.

With Pella® Impervia®, you don’t have to sacrifice style for performance. Choose from five interior and exterior color options to achieve your unique design style, including Black and dual-color frames. With contrasting and complementary hardware finishes, you can add design interest and make a statement. These enduring, long-lasting fiberglass windows and patio doors will look beautiful for years to come.

Pella Window & Door Showroom 101 Distribution Drive, Homewood | 205.259.1960 | pellabranch.com/alabama

CityLifestyle.com/BirminghamAL

7

AROUND TOWN

LIVE A GREAT STORY

NEW EATERIES MAKE MAGIC CITY HOME Just in time for everyone to get vaccinated and brave the world once again, a few new spots to enjoy culinary delights are emerging on the Birmingham circuit.

North Italia has opened at the Summit, with plenty of upscale dishes and wines to try on your next evening out. Of special note are the white truffle garlic bread, Sicilian margarita pizza and handrolled tortellini stuffed with burrata, according to general manager Jaie O’Banner.

Just in time for backyard weather, The Backyard Market is open in Vestavia, offering a huge menu of breakfast, lunch and dinner items, as well as outdoor seating. Or grab their meats, cheeses and meals to go.

For a sweet treat, Sons Doughnuts is worth the "dough." Check out their doughnuts dusted with exotic sugars — which we recommend you bring home to mom.

LAKEVIEW GREEN COMING SUMMER 2021 The mixed-use development Lakeview Green, on the site of the former Davis School, will debut this summer, offering upscale apartments, retail options, green space and more. Keep an eye out for restaurants and shops slated to appear, and get ready to enjoy "Lakeview's only public green space," complete with ample parking.

Financial Planning • Tax Strategy 401(k) • Education Savings • Advisory Services Risk Management • Estate Planning Retirement Planning JESSE SCROGGINS, AAMS® Senior Vice President, SWIG Financial Professional, RJFS jesse.scroggins@swinvestmentgroup.com 600 University Park Place, Suite 350 Homewood, AL 35209 O 205.730.0055 // F 205.981.0299

Would you like to get in touch with us? We would Raymond James does not provide tax or legal services. Please discuss these matters with the appropriate professional. Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services are offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. Southwestern Investment Group is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. 21-FA6J28-0002 TA 2/21

8

Birmingham Lifestyle | May 2021

love to hear from you! Contact us at CityLifestyle. com/BirminghamAL using the Get In Touch link and let us know what you think.

NOW OFFERING

FREEZE FAT AWAY FOREVER For more information or to schedule your consultation, contact us today!

205-278-7969 schafferplasticsurg.com CoolSculpting® is an FDA-approved, nonsurgical fat removal solution that works by freezing fat away. It is approved for use in nine areas of the body: under the chin, under the jawline, thighs, abdomen, flanks, under the buttocks, upper arms, bra fat and back fat.

Schaffer Plastic Surgery Clinic & Surgical Facility 3595 Grandview Parkway, #150 Birmingham, AL 35243

TREND SETTER

Dr. Chris Schaffer

10

Birmingham Lifestyle | May 2021

C U S T O M I Z E M O M M Y

Y O U R

M A K E O V E R

F O R

IT’S NO SECRET THAT MOTHERS IN THE MAGIC CITY ARE ALL UNIQUE WITH DISTINCTLY DIFFERENT GOALS. So why wouldn’t their ideal version of the “mommy makeover” be any different? Although mommy makeovers have classically been known for consisting of breast surgery (lifts and augmentations) and tummy tucks, modern moms are realizing that their options are far more varied.

Mothers who select Schaffer Plastic Surgery of Birmingham

Frequently, it is convenient to combine surgical pro-

for their makeover are educated on their myriad of options

cedures when the body areas involved are interrelated,

available to enhance their appearances and confidence. Dr.

Bullock explained. For example, a tummy tuck and a butt

Chris Schaffer’s expertise and professionalism are a bonus.

lift are often combined, as fat from the abdomen may be

Each patient at Schaffer Plastic Surgery starts with a

repurposed to reshape the buttocks.

thorough consultation, where she learns about all the dif-

“Liposuction is necessary to harvest fat for transfer to the

ferent options for surgery and recovery. Pricing is reviewed

buttocks. Patients benefit by removing excess fat from the

upfront, so there are no surprises about cost.

abdomen, thighs, arms or lower back and further benefit

“We ask the patients to prioritize what bothers them the

when the fat is transferred to their bottom.”

most about their appearance or what they miss about their

In recent years, celebrities and general media have

body or even what they never had before, and, from that

highlighted a much curvier silhouette, noted Bullock,

information, we develop a surgical plan,” said Sarah Bullock,

and this shift in popular culture has resulted in similar

patient coordinator at Schaffer Plastic Surgery. She pointed

interests during plastic surgery consultations. Of course,

out that patients’ requests can run the gamut from wanting

many mothers simply want to get back to how their bod-

volume restoration of their buttocks and breasts to having

ies looked before pregnancy. But, even these ladies are

slimmer arms and tummies.

happy to learn the options that are available to them at

“A quote is generated for them, and this becomes their

Schaffer Plastic Surgery.

own custom mommy makeover. Where possible, proce-

“I think most moms desire their pre-pregnancy look, but

dures can be combined together or done in stages to con-

they sometimes don’t realize all that we can accomplish for

form to the specific patient’s lifestyle,” she added.

them until they come for their consultation,” Bullock said.

PHOTOGRAPHY WICK OLIVER

CityLifestyle.com/BirminghamAL

11

CITY SCENE

Stronger, Smarter and Bolder in the Magic City GIRLS INC. OF BIRMINGHAM

ESTABLISHED IN 1938 AS THE GIRLS CLUB, THE BIRMINGHAM CHAPTER OF GIRLS INC. has made a difference in the lives of many girls between the ages of 6 and 18 with a variety of challenging and fulfilling programs. Partnering with a number of city schools and local organizations, Girls Inc. is living up to the organization’s national mission to make girls “stronger, smarter and bolder” for a modern global culture and economy.

The Crestwood Center in the Crestwood neighborhood is the site of many Girls Inc. programs, and outreach programs are conducted at various schools. Some programs, such as Eureka! and Teen Leadership, start during the summer months and continue throughout the school year. Though this summer’s programming is still slightly limited, these two key programs will continue as planned.

Teen Leadership, in partnership with the Junior League of Birmingham, is a chance for teen girls to be mentored by professional local women, as well as experience workshops, field trips and much more. While the summer workshop lasts a week, the program runs through the academic year, with Saturday meetings once or twice each month.

Meanwhile, Eureka! is the Girls Inc. STEM program, encouraging students to take on interests and career tracts that were once more “suited” for boys – science, technology, engineering and mathematics. The full Eureka! program lasts five years, from 8th grade until senior year, and culminates with a paid internship in one of the STEM fields. The summer portion of Eureka! is a rigorous four-week camp for 8th graders, taught on college campuses by college instructors.

Of particular note for our local Girls Inc. chapter is the organization recently being named one of just 10 finalists for the Equality Can’t Wait Challenge. More than 550 organizations competed for this challenge, and, according to Development 12

Birmingham Lifestyle | May 2021

Girls Inc Summer Programs for 2021 EUREKA! Camp Dates: June 7 through July 23, 2021 Camp Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

To register, please contact Amy Strickland at 205-5995-5545, or register online at girlsinccentral-al.org.

TEEN LEADERSHIP Director Meredith Wolfe Alsabrook,

Alsabrook said. “The next round is

as much as $10 million in funding is a

an opportunity to refine, tighten and

distinct possibility.

strengthen our proposal. Our pro-

“The competition included a compli-

spectus is due May 21, followed by a

ance review, peer review, judge panel

site visit. An announcement about the

and funder selection of finalists,”

winners will be made in August 2021.”

SUMMER WORKSHOP Camp Dates: June 28 through July 2, 2021.

To register, please contact Dominique Roller at 205-599-5547 or via email at droller@girlsinccentral-al.org.

CityLifestyle.com/BirminghamAL

13

Called to Minister to Women AT THE TENDER AGE OF 11 YEARS OLD, BRENDA LOVELADY SPAHN OFFERED HER FUTURE VOCATION TO GOD. She was inspired, she said, by the idea of international mission work, but it took her no fewer than 40 years to figure out what would become her greatest passion and calling. Today, the founder of Birmingham’s well-known Lovelady Center looks back fondly on the last decade and a half – after the turning point, you might say, of knowing what she could do to uplift women in her community.

Spahn admitted she was already doing “financially well” in her career before she opened the Lovelady Center — yet, she knew this simple definition of success wasn’t enough. One day, she decided to give her time to the Birmingham Work Release Center — which she called “a hellacious place” — and ended up bonding emotionally and spiritually with several of the women prisoners there.

Spahn regularly cheered the women on when they left the Work Release Center — then felt frustrated on their behalf when they often returned. She learned how they were sent away with a bus ticket to “go where they’d come from,” CONTINUED >

ARTICLE DENISE K JAMES PHOTOGRAPHY WICK OLIVER

14

Birmingham Lifestyle | May 2021

“W hen God ca l led me to m i n ister to women, I had no clue what that wou ld look l i ke at fi rst.”

CityLifestyle.com/BirminghamAL

15

CALLED TO MINISTER TO WOMEN (CONTINUED)

which often, understandably, was not an ideal solution.

Spahn wondered if perhaps the answer was a little more preparation before returning to society, and with that, the seed of the Lovelady Center took sprout. “When God called me to minister to women, I had no clue what that would look like at first,” she admitted.

First things were first — after her lightbulb idea, Spahn went with her instincts and spoke to her husband, Jeff, about inviting a few prisoners to stay inside their house, which, she said, was a challenging request but ultimately resulted in six women being sent from the Work Release Center to live on “Hob-Hill,” the nickname of the Spahn residence. Figuring she’d be living with shoplifters and other petty criminals, Spahn was alarmed to discover that these six women had highly violent crimes on their records. Was she making a prudent decision for herself and her family? Still, she swallowed her apprehension and treated the women like family, taking them shopping for underwear and other necessities, setting up comfy twin beds and hiring a driver and a house mom. But when the house mom and the driver saw the six women, they politely excused themselves from the employment opportunity. That left Spahn and her daughter, Melinda, to do everything — which they did.

Of course, Spahn and her daughter were clueless about running a halfway house — or a “wholeway house” as the Lovelady Center came to be known. Programs to keep the women on track and teach them important life skills as well as spiritual and emotional well-being were written "as they went along.” In the early days, funding for the project was mostly through UAB’s TASC (Treatment Alternatives for Safer Communities) program, according to Spahn. But the Lovelady Center soon gained traction. “Six women grew to more than 40 in no time,” she recalled.

16

Birmingham Lifestyle | May 2021

Today, more than 12,000 women — and their children — have lived in and graduated from the Lovelady Center, and the success rate for reintegration into society following the program is about 85%. Spahn’s eldest son, Beau, is now operations manager, while Melinda still runs the facility along with her mother, and Melinda’s twin brother, Matthew, sits on the board of directors. Two thrift stores in Irondale and Trussville support the Lovelady Center mission, and graduates of the program work as store associates. The Lovelady Center has relocated from Spahn’s private residence to the former East End Memorial Hospital, and talks of moving into an even larger facility have been in the works. Spahn is still looking forward to growth in the future.

“I give all of this to God,” she beamed. “It has taken years. I saw little, and the Lord saw big.

I help these women believe that they have an identity besides who they were before.

And those first six women are some of my best friends today. One died two years ago, Sharon Curry. It broke my heart. She was the meanest woman, but then she turned out to have the softest heart.”

“I give a l l of th is to God. It has ta ken yea rs. I saw l it tle, a nd the Lord saw big.”

CityLifestyle.com/BirminghamAL

17

Masters of the Outdoors

World Class Fire Arms

(205) 917-5800 c a l ib er x l. c om 2 8 2 2 C ent r a l Avenu e in Hom e wo o d

W E D N E S DAY S 6:15 - 7:15pm C A F E C H U RC H I S LO C ATE D I N T H E GY M

Ca f e CHURCH

J O I N U S FO R CO F F E E A N D CO N V E R SAT I O N

WE LOVE OUR COMMUNITY AND WE’RE PRAYING FOR YOU! P L E A SE LET US K NOW HOW WE CAN HELP.

TE X T PRAYER TO 2 0 5 - 9 0 0 - 3 7 8 6 O R EM AI L PA STO R @ L A K ES I D EBA P T I S T.CO M J O I N US FO R WO R S H IP SUNDAY M O R NI NGS AT 8: 30 & 10 :45 LI V E - S T R E AM E D AT 10: 45 AT L A K ESI D EBA PT I ST.COM

INSPIRED BY

bb rriinn ggiinn gg aabb oouu tt cchhaann ggee tt hhrroouu gghh llee aa ddee rr sshhiipp A CONVERSATION WITH MOMENTUM CEO APRIL BENETOLLO

WHAT IS THE HISTORY OF MOMENTUM? Momentum is a nonprofit, formed in 2002, that

20

WHAT IS THE MISSION AND FOCUS BEHIND MOMENTUM?

advances women in leadership. It was formed by a group

We know that women are entering the workforce at

of women who were all on the board of the YWCA in

higher rates than men, and about 40% of those make it

central Alabama. The women were all in high-level jobs

to middle management, while only 14% make it to what

and would talk, share experiences and discuss challenges.

we’d call a leadership position, due to things like uncon-

Through that, they realized they needed a group to com-

scious bias and assumptions that companies make about

pare notes and have other women in leadership join them.

women and the time they can offer. And this behavior

Birmingham Lifestyle | May 2021

hurts men too. Men feel undue pressure to go after these jobs, when they’d really like to spend time with their families.

Though this environment is slow to change, women are finding ways, through their positions in leadership, to bring about change.

In a leadership role, you can question diversity in hiring, and you can

nine-month curriculum, where they meet for an entire day once a

say, ‘we need to provide extra support for women and people of color

month. Different leaders come in and facilitate meetings.

because they face different challenges.’

Then, three years ago, we broadened our scope and launched an

We focus on the development of the woman and getting rid of

earlier career version of that same program, called Upward. It’s for

things that might hold them back. We introduce negotiation skills,

women who have 3 to 4 years of experience. We do 2 of those per year,

management skills, team-building skills and other things that they

again capped at 30 women, and it’s a half day instead of a full day.

might not get as much of as their male counterparts.

Beyond that, we realized some women won’t fit into either of those categories, and we started a virtual series in response to the

WHAT IS THE PROGRAM STRUCTURE OF MOMENTUM? Our main program is the Executive Leadership program, which takes 30 women from different industries and roles through a

pandemic. We do the series about every six weeks. It’s a free webinar of leadership content, from keeping mental health in check to improving communication.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/BirminghamAL

21

INSPIRED BY (CONTINUED)

We focus on the development of the woman and getting rid of things that might hold them back.

HOW DID THE PANDEMIC, SPEAKING OF, AFFECT MOMENTUM?

We also launched a podcast called Momentum Matters and a

The two other programs have also been taking place virtually in

YouTube channel, which includes our past webinars, at Momentum

the last year. But since no one wants to sit on a computer all day,

Leaders. There are links to our content on our Facebook and

we took the content and divided it into pre-work and also built

LinkedIn and Instagram accounts.

breaks into the day. It has worked surprisingly well. We’ve tried to make it special despite the pandemic. We created “retreat in a

WHAT’S NEXT FOR MOMENTUM?

basket” gift baskets and hand-delivered those to people’s houses

Our 2020 Conference was March 11 and 12 of 2020 and had 1,300

to thank them for being part of the program. We partnered with

people there — we had just made it! Conferences are open to anyone

Alabama Goods for the baskets.

who registers, and we intend to have another one in early 2022.

22

Birmingham Lifestyle | May 2021

CityLifestyle.com/BirminghamAL

23

LOCAL LIMELIGHT Gift Paper by Curly Contessa

Photo by Kristina O’Quinn.

Photo by Becky Stayner.

Kristin Farmer, Founder of Curly Contessa

“BLACK WOMEN SEE THEMSELVES IN MY IMAGES, AND THEY RELATE TO THEM.”

Kristin Farmer Curly Contessa

WHEN KRISTIN FARMER WAS DIAGNOSED WITH BIPOLAR

II

AND

BORDERLINE

PERSONALITY

DISORDER, SHE ACTUALLY BREATHED A SIGH OF RELIEF. She’d been misdiagnosed for years and frustrated by the onslaught of wrong information, which came to a stop once she found the right mental health professional.

24

Birmingham Lifestyle | May 2021

IF YOU BUILD IT, HOW TWO LOCAL WOMEN CREATED THEIR BUSINESS VISION

Photo by Kristina O’Quinn.

THEY WILL COME

Drinkware by Curly Contessa

To celebrate, Farmer decided to treat herself to a glass of

her art to inspire other Black women. The brand started with wrap-

wine in festive glassware. Unfortunately, she discovered that

ping paper and moved toward a large assortment of gift items,

she had trouble locating a wine glass with a fun illustration

including apparel, glassware and much more.

resembling herself. So she did what any savvy artist would

Farmer has high hopes for her business and intends to to move

do — she created one. With that, her new business, Curly

her brand into luxury retail establishments in the near future. For

Contessa, was born.

now, shoppers can find her online, at CurlyContessa.com. She also

Farmer, a corporate graphic designer by trade, explained that Curly Contessa is meant for “celebrating everyday moments.” As a Black woman with natural hair, she wanted

accepts commission work.

“Black women see themselves in my images, and they relate to them,” she said.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/BirminghamAL

25

LOCAL LIMELIGHT (CONTINUED)

Photo by Megan Tsang Hand.

Javacia Harris Bowser, Founder of See Jane Write

Photo by Megan Tsang Hand.

“IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR SOMETHING AND CAN’T FIND IT, CREATE IT YOURSELF.”

Javacia Harris Bowser See Jane Write

When Javacia Harris Bowser returned to her native Birmingham after time away, she immediately sought a writing group that would address her varied interests: journalism, poetry, blogging and creative nonfiction. To her surprise, the groups she found were focused on one niche of wordsmithing, not several. Bowser decided to

26

Birmingham Lifestyle | May 2021

"Hanging with the Janes"

take matters into her own hands and create See Jane

good humor, the support of her family and the SJW community. As

Write, a community for writers of all stripes to gather

of December 2020, she was finished with treatment.

and trade ideas.

Since its inception in 2011, See Jane Write has become a

At first, Bowser was juggling teaching full time at

thriving business. Members have access to a resource library of

Alabama School of Fine Arts with running her new busi-

information, special guest speaker sessions, monthly critiques,

ness. In 2019, she decided to embark on her freelance writ-

workshops, write-ins and more.

ing career, which gave her flexibility and allowed See Jane

“If you’re looking for something and can’t find it, create it your-

Write to flourish. In early 2020, Bowser was diagnosed with

self,” Bowser advised. “There are other people out there who want

breast cancer, but she powered through her treatment with

it and need it too.”

CityLifestyle.com/BirminghamAL

27

RENOVATE & REFINE

THE ( PA I N T E D) GR E E N THUMB

HOW TO INTEGRATE HOUSE PLANTS IN YOUR HOME

28

Birmingham Lifestyle | May 2021

ARTICLE LEANN PARKER

PLANTS FOR BEGINNERS I am obsessed with plants! But, truth be told, I have a painted green thumb. This can be translated as “having a love for plants, killing some while successfully growing others.” I confess that in spite my best efforts, I cannot keep orchids, ferns or succulents alive for more than a few weeks. I can, however, grow some things and do so very well! I can’t wait to share with you the plants that have lived in my home for over 15 years… successfully!! If you’re new to the plant world then I hope knowing that about me gives you the courage to try your hand at growing too.

So, paint your thumb green (hypothetically!) and join me @silvertoothfarmhome as we grow things together.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/BirminghamAL

29

RENOVATE & REFINE (CONTINUED)

M Y FAVO R I T E P L A N T S (BECAUSE I DON’T KILL THEM) AFRICAN VIOLET

POTHOS

This was the very first house plant that I tried

In my opinion, the easiest indoor plant to grow

to keep alive as a newly married homemaker. I

is a Pothos! If you don’t try to grow anything else,

still have the original African Violet plant that my

try to grow this dramatic vine!! Pothos are by far

mother-in-law gave me 15 years ago. That alone

my favorite for trailing vines up walls (tip: hold up

should prove how easy they are to love. Afrian

vines on walls with adhesive hooks) or draping

violets produce small colorful flowers that range

them down mantles. These babies require minimal

from purple, pink and multi color. Just make sure

light and forgive you for forgetting to water them.

you don’t drip water on their leaves or let the leaves get direct sunlight as both will burn them.

If you do burn a leaf, simply pinch it off and your plant will grow a new one. Easy.

SNAKE PLANT You’ll appreciate that this guy is extremely hardy and doesn’t like a lot of attention. Give him lots of space, don’t over water, and whisper when

CROTON

you’re in the same room (just kidding).

I’ve almost killed this plant-baby several times

A close second to Pothos, this one has a high

over. Fortunately, it forgives easily and with

success rate for beginner growers. I think it

simple adjustments to light and water it always

looks so whimsical with all the little spiderettes

comes back to love me! I just adore the techni-

hanging from the mother plant. I especially love

color leaves and the more light you give them the

when it produces its dainty white blooms in the

more colorful they become! If you’ve been to the

spring. Our kids get a kick out of cutting the

south you probably have seen them in outdoor

“baby spiders” from the mother plant, placing

landscaping. Here in Kansas City it is too cold for

them in water and watching as the new plant

that but they do wonderfully for us indoors espe-

grows roots. Bonus: not only is this plant non-

cially if pulled outdoors in the summer.

toxic, studies by NASA prove that they reduce indoor air pollution as well. Nice!

DRACAENA This giant plant is a statement, for sure. Mine is

MONSTERA

6ft tall and still growing! If you watch The Office

Along with Fiddle Leaf Fig, the Monstera

then you might have noticed that a Dracaena

is a trending plant in the home decor world.

cameos in many of the character’s interviews! I

Nicknamed Swiss Cheese Plant for its natural

move mine outdoors during the summer months

splitting leaves. The younger the plant the less leaf

and it goes crazy with new growth.

splits (this one is a baby so doesn’t have the split leaves yet). In the wild the Monstera is a tropical

FIDDLE LEAF FIG This is included in my favorite list but be warned as they are a bit finicky. Make sure to not let the leaves see direct sunlight or they will burn and occasionally rotate so it grows up straight.

And, if all else fails, get a faux Fiddle Leaf Fig! Your guests probably won’t know the difference.

30

Birmingham Lifestyle | May 2021

vine that climbs up larger plants. Cool, huh?

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/BirminghamAL

31

RENOVATE & REFINE (CONTINUED)

G E N E R A L G ROW I N G T I P S FOR T H E BEGI N N ER …

1.

The Seasonal Cycles are not just in the outdoor plant world! Did you know that indoor plants go through seasonal cycles too? Indoor plants require regular water and

3.

fertilizer in the summer and then go through a dormant period in the winter requiring minimal water and fertilizer.

My seasonal rhythm is to treat Oct-February as dormant months and March-Sept as growing months.

2.

Fertilizing is key. We don’t live on water alone and the same is true with plants. Plants need water AND food to thrive! I use a general indoor liquid plant food and simply add to my plants water as recommended on the label.

4.

Double pot your plants to avoid root rot as well as having water leak onto your floors and shelves. Keep your plant in a plastic pot with drain holes and then place that pot

Watering: The number one way folks kill their plants is

into a larger pot without drain holes. Now everyone is

by overwatering. Don’t be a wet blanket! Literally. Make

happy! Also, repot your plant yearly (or as needed) as

sure to test your soil (with your finger or a houseplant soil

they outgrow the current one lived in.

meter) before watering to make sure that you don’t over do it. Soggy soil kills. It helps me to pick one day of the week as watering day so I don’t accidentally overdo it. I’ve been doing Water-Wednesdays for years! As a general

5.

If bugs and fungi creep in then spray my plants with Neem Oil according to directions. I’m not going to lie, this stuff stinks like crazy. But, it takes care of a multi-

rule, water 1x per week in the growing months and 1-2x

tude of problems without the use of chemicals and your

per month in the dormant months. Finding an app such as

plants will thank you.

Planta (free) or setting an alarm reminder on your phone can also help to manage your itch to overwater.

32

Birmingham Lifestyle | May 2021

For more tips follow @Silvertoothfarmhome

THE

RELAXATION

EXPERIENCE

YOU’VE BEEN LOOKING FOR! BOOK YOUR FREE STRETCH NOW!

BIRMINGHAM

|

3056 Healthy Way, Suite 120

|

205-509-2349

|

StretchZone.com

|

Birmingham@stretchzone.com

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/BirminghamAL

33

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

mercantile = est. 2018 =

6 THE LOVELADY CENTER LEGACY OF LOVE FUNDRAISER Virtual

The Lovelady Center has been hosting the Legacy of Love fundraising event for years, and this year will be a partially in-person event. The Loveladies will be attending a dinner in their honor, while donors will be able to "attend" virtually and watch the powerful program and testimonies. Speakers TBD. Visit https://legacyoflove.swell.gives.

7 BIRMINGHAM HOT AIR BALLOON FESTIVAL Birmingham Race Course

A modern-day general store focused on quality goods made locally.

256.747.5508 • ASHLEYMERCANTILE.COM MON.-SAT. 10AM-5PM • 105A 1ST AVE. NE, CULLMAN, AL 35055

Bring the whole family out for a great family fun time. See incredible hot air balloons, check something off that bucket list and get a ride! This festival will have a Kids Zone with games and rides, a laser show, a DJ, music, craft and retail vendors and plenty of fantastic food for sale.

8 CELEBRATE THE FAMILY EXPO

GET INSPIRED

Pelham Civic Complex

The Second Annual Celebrate the Family Expo is on Saturday, May 8 at the Pelham Civic Complex.

Entertainment includes live music from Kevin Derryberry, Photo Booth from America’s First, Fun Source Inflatables and much more. Gone for Good, a

EAT + DRINK SHOP LOCAL

program of United Ability, will also be on site to shred unwanted documents and recycle old electronics for free, and King’s Home will also have a truck accepting donations. Come have fun and get spring cleaning done!

21 SONGS ON THE SAND

Oak Mountain State Park

Enjoy tunes by the lake with your friends. Grab your lawn or beach chair or a picnic blanket to sit on the

City Lifestyle YOUR DIGITAL DESTINATION FOR LOCAL LIVING

34

Birmingham Lifestyle | May 2021

sand. The concert will start at 5 p.m. and will end when the bands get too tired to sing! There will be food trucks and alcoholic beverages for sale, so come prepared to have dinner and relax under the stars.

MAY

21 VIP FOOD AND WINE EXPERIENCE WITH PUBLIX COOKING SCHOOL Tattersall Park

Start the evening with a VIP food and wine reception starting at 6 p.m. Enjoy a tantalizing selection of chef-inspired bites paired with Monterey wines.

Savor an hour of aperitifs and maybe stay for dinner after.

22 CORPORATE CHALLENGE PRESENTED BY CHICK-FIL-A

If you have thirty minutes or more to listen, ask Antonio what he dreams of being in ten years.

WE DO WHAT WE DO BECAUSE CHILDREN HAVE DREAMS.

Sloss Furnaces

The sixth annual Corporate Challenge presented by Chick-fil-A takes place on May 22 at Sloss Furnaces. Join for a day of fun and healthy competition in the name of health and wellness.

Would you like to get in touch with us? We would love to hear from you!

1 6 0 0 7 T H AV E N U E S O U T H

Contact us at CityLifestyle.com/

BIRMINGHAM, AL 35233

BirminghamAL using the Get In Touch

(205) 638-9100 | ChildrensAL.org

link and let us know what you think.

CityLifestyle.com/BirminghamAL

35

Visit Our Trails End Community Today Moss Creek Circle, Mountain Brook, AL 35223 Monday – Saturday 10am to 5pm

Sunday 1pm to 5pm

Call 855-JDAVID1 to schedule your visit.

Mary Kathryn Bonamy • MKBonamy@ARHomes.com

©2021 All rights reserved. J David Homes is an independently owned and operated franchise.