For flights beginning or ending in Florida. It’s the easiest commute between your homes. With special package deals from four flights to 16. Avoid airline hassles. Bring family, friends, and that special someone who just wants to be by your side.
Caroline Keating | Realtor®, Brooke Goodstein | Director of Operations/Realtor®
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The Women's Issue
I don’t know about you, but I love any opportunity to recognize the women in my life who just make life more rich and beautiful. Our mothers, daughters, sisters and friends are some of the most influential women in our lives.
And of course with Mother’s Day this month, all eyes are on mom — not just the biological mothers, but the mother figures in our lives who have made an indelible impact on us. It’s the family members, teachers, friends and neighbors doing awesome things in our communities, pouring into our lives — making themselves unforgettable and irreplaceable.
While it’s always important to shop local and support our area businesses, this month is the perfect time to patronize businesses owned by women in our communities. That’s one of my favorite parts of this role — connecting with and championing the best of the best when it comes to Birmingham’s women.
They are movers and shakers, builders and makers. They are both seen and unseen. Their silent service blesses those who are under their care. Their attention to detail shows us something about beauty that can’t be seen or understood any other way.
I hope you’ll take a few minutes to send a text, make a phone call or get your kids on a video call with the women in your life who deserve recognition. It only takes a minute to brighten someone’s day and remind them how much you love them.
Thanks
ALI KRAMER, PUBLISHER
May 2025
PUBLISHER
Ali Kramer | ali.kramer@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Lynne Konstantin | lynne.konstantin@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Lisa Gindi | lisa.gindi@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Angela Broockerd, Linda Ditch, Amy Salvagno, Susan Thwing
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
CELEBRATE MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH 11am - 3pm
Spoil the wonderful moms in your life to an amazing afternoon with a curated menu, fresh floral market.
AL FRESCO DINING - Relax in our covered patio lounge and savor every moment.
THE ULTIMATE HAPPY HOUR - Everyday 4pm - 7pm, handcrafted cocktails and elevated bites.
EVENTS - Graduations, Showers, and Beyond - In a space designed for unforgettable moments. Let us host your next event!
inside the issue
A
We
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
At the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s 2025 Student Visionary of the Year (SVOY) Grand Finale event Jan. 23 at Andiamo, Warren. 1: SVOY Candidate from Cranbrook High School Ryan VanDyke. 2: SVOY Candidate from Troy High School Kate Bestul. 3: Melissa Schiller, SVOY Candidates from Bloomfield Hills High School Sloane Schiller and Sami Perry and Stephanie Perry. 4: Grand Total raised by 11 student candidate teams across Metro Detroit. 5:
Debby Hannigan, Noelle VanDyke and Marci Frick. 6: Evan Pero, Therese Pero, Seaholm SVOY Candidate Aiden Pero, Olivia Pero, Board Member Chris Pero. 7: Victoria Watt, Therese Pero and Nicole McArdle.
The Birmingham Education Foundation (BEF) annual Unabashed Bash, Feb. 1, at the Daxton Hotel, Birmingham. 1: Audra Holdorf. 2: BEF Trustees Rick Kelley, Liz Rito, Renee Ruiz, Sherri Levitt, Sean Fisher, Mike Wicker, Alyssa Rothermel, Amrita Singh, Jenn Rass. 3: Amrita Singh, Binesh Patel. 4: Guests having fun. 5: BPS Superintendent Dr. Embekka Roberson. 6: Counterclockwise from left: Ashley Hafner, Karrie Silcox, Kelly Salter; Kaitlin Flaherty, Susan Smith and Laura Tinsley. 7: Mike and Kelly Salter.
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Elevated Social Club Paddle & Par Opens in Beverly Hills
Paddle & Par, a new 48,000-squarefoot social club in Beverly Hills, offers 11 state-of-the-art indoor pickleball courts, five Full Swing golf simulator suites and table tennis courts plus a full-service restaurant and bar, a destination in its own right. Founded by Neal and Dawn Check of RainCheck Development, the midcentury-inspired facility offers an elevated experience with professional-grade courts, premium amenities and a pro shop. The venue hosts leagues, tournaments and events while lounge spaces provide a social atmosphere. Paddleandpar.com .
Left to Right: Jason M Geisz, Elizabeth M Silver, R Adam Biswanger, Suzanne Minster, Robert F Alati, Robyn R Crewdson
60th Annual Birmingham Village Fair, May 28-June 1
The Birmingham Bloomfield Chamber of Commerce will celebrate the 60th Annual Birmingham Village Fair, to be held at Shane Park in Downtown Birmingham May 28-June 1. Families and friends can take a spin on the Ferris Wheel, play carnival games, slip down the Giant Slide, let your littles drive a monster truck and snack on delicious carnival food. Bbcc.com
[solidcore] Opens Studio in Birmingham, its Third in Michigan.
[solidcore], the high-intensity, low-impact strength-training sensation, opened a Birmingham location in April, its third Michigan studio in an expansion overseen by President and CEO Bryan Myers, while fostering an inclusive, empowering fitness community. As demand for effective mind-body strength-training continues to rise, [solidcore] offers 50-minute workouts on the brand’s custom-built reformer machine, using slow, controlled movements to push muscles to build a stronger back, delivering results both physically and mentally. Solidcore.co
Cozy Brunch Spot Teuta Opens in Downtown Birmingham
Teuta in Downtown Birmingham, from owners Filip and Teuta Skelaj, is a cozy brunch spot rooted in Albanian hospitality. Named after an Illyrian queen, Teuta offers fan-favorite Stacked Buns (including Salmon BLT on Ciabatta or Pecan-Crusted Chicken with strawberry jam and bleu cheese on a brioche bun), House Biscuits with crumbled sausage, bacon and bechamel, Pancakes with Sweet Mascarpone & Fresh Berry Compote, burgers, hearth-baked pizzas and more. Teutabirmingham.com
Wellness enthusiasts, rejoice: The Tox, a chic, upbeat studio, is now open in Birmingham. The Tox technique has combined lymphatic and digestive
modalities to create holistic body and facial sculpting services that aim to reduce inflammation and eliminate toxins. Offerings range from the 60 Minute Master Tox to the Pregnancy Master Tox & Sculpting Facial. Selfcare appointments can be booked online at thetoxtechnique.com or via Mindbody.
Your Relief Specialists
Popular Italian Deli La Pecora Nera opens in Downtown Birmingham
La Pecora Nera, a popular Italian deli and cafe in Detroit and Farmington, has opened a new location in Downtown Birmingham, offering salads, coffee and gelato in addition to a variety of Italian sandwiches. Dedicated to sourcing the finest quality ingredients, handcrafting both unique and traditional Italian sandwiches and delivering exceptional service with passion and warmth, La Pecora Nera’s new location’s welcoming atmosphere celebrates Italian culture while fostering lasting connections within the community. Lapecoradetroit.com .
Whether you’re dealing with sleep issues, allergies, ear concerns, thyroid conditions, or cancerrelated challenges, finding relief is essential. With convenient locations in Novi, Brighton, and Bingham Farms, ENT Specialists is here to help you breathe easier. Our compassionate team takes the time to understand your concerns, uncover the root causes, and offer safe, effective treatments. At ENT Specialists, we believe in a collaborative approach to care, building a relationship of trust between doctor and patient. With your wellbeing as our top priority, comfort and relief are always within reach.
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CHRIS PERO ASSOCIATE BROKER
25 Years as a Full Time Agent in Birmingham
20 Years as a Birmingham Resident
Bloomfield schools graduate, 3 kids to Birmingham schools
Over $825 Million in personal career sales (not team sales)
A Top 10 Agent (including teams) in Oakland county each of the last 15 years
#2 Agent for market area homes sold in 2023 and 2024
An Individual Agent if
Southern Charm
A Southern transplant with power tools is creating a home-content empire from Birmingham — while inspiring other women to transform their houses into homes.
Gail Disner has a knack for making everything she touches turn to gold. She’s like a Disney princess — with power tools.
A Mississippi transplant, she moved to Birmingham with her husband, Groves High School graduate Mike Disner — now chief operating officer for the Detroit Lions — and their two young children. When they bought their 1936 Colonial in Quarton Lake, she unpacked her power tools and went to work with small renovation projects. For fun, she started posting them online — showing people
what she was up to while injecting a good dose of humor and lightheartedness.
What started as a hobby dispensing delicious details about her stunning home has become a full-time enterprise — at press time, she’s got 238K followers on Instagram alone, she’s got collaborations with companies like Williams-Sonoma and HGTV and she’s in discussions with an interior-design company eager to create a housewares collection with her.
CONTINUED >
ARTICLE BY LYNNE KONSTANTIN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY GAIL DISNER
Gail Disner, aka the Southern Gail
Although she does seem to have a bit of magic to her, Disner, known as the Southern Gail (@thesoutherngail) has earned her skills and success the old-fashioned way: arming herself with three degrees (including two masters’), educating herself to the point of expert in home design (and still constantly learning) and a lifetime of experience well beyond her years have landed her in her dream home and working her dream job of home content creator.
Are you a true Southern girl?
I grew up in a very small town in Mississippi, with 45 people in my high school graduating class. Actually, I was the only one from my class that went to a four-year college.
What did you study?
I have three degrees: one in microbiology with minors in chemistry and economics from the University of Southern Mississippi. And I have a master’s in business from Ole Miss.
It’s been a long road — it’s what I thought I was supposed to do, because I was good at math and science. I decided I wanted to be involved in health care without being a clinician, so I got another master’s from Ole Miss, in health-care administration, with the goal of being a hospital administrator.
I became a manager at NYU Medical Center in New York City — which is where I met my husband.
And then your path changed?
My husband was in the NFL League office in New York when I met him. We got married and moved to Arizona for six years
Disner's son's bedroom showcases her grandmother's antique bed.
while he was with the Cardinals, had two children, then we moved to Michigan in 2019. I knew that his job required a commitment to traveling in our future — but I didn’t really know exactly what I was getting into. I learned very quickly after having kids! You can’t really do a ‘normal’ corporate job, 9 to 5. You have to be flexible.
I’ve lived many lives. I sold real estate in Arizona and Michigan for short stints. I had a wedding- and event-planning company in Arizona that I later sold. I had to try things where I could choose my own hours.
Where do you live now?
We bought our house in Birmingham in 2019. It was everything we were looking for — a Colonial, it was a good size, had a spacious basement and big yard, which in Birmingham is so rare. I wanted a tree-lined street with sidewalks, also hard to find. We also didn’t want a house that needed a lot of work — ha.
And you found your dream house?
We fell in love. I wanted to be able to put my own touch on it, where I didn’t have to pay for somebody else’s upgrades to a bathroom or kitchen that I didn’t like. So it was exactly what we needed. The house was built in 1936 — we had no idea what we were getting into.
Did you have a background in design?
Every house I’ve ever lived in, as early as I can remember, I wanted my room decorated the way I wanted it done. Growing up, it was just, we’re going to Walmart, pick out a comforter. But I always wanted my space customized. In college I made headboards for my dorm room bed. Every New York City apartment I lived in, I painted the walls even though I knew I was going to have to repaint them when I left. I always wanted my space to feel decorated, homey and designed.
When we bought an old house, I thought, Ok, here’s my chance. I get to really design this how I want. I wanted to take my time to figure out what I wanted and figure out my style. I had used drills all through college. When we bought this house, I started buying the real power tools — miter saws, tile saws.
But I didn’t realize it was going to take over my life. I had planned to maybe sell real estate here, and I even got my license. I thought we would slowly update it, and as I did, I started sharing projects online as a creative outlet. I was seeing other DIYers and designers do it, and thought it could be really cool if I posted a project. Maybe someone would send me something for free. Very low level.
What exactly do you do?
My business is a content creator. Ninety-nine percent of what I do is just my house. I don’t take clients.
I don’t design for anyone else. I just share my house online. Slowly people started asking, ‘Hey, where did you get that wallpaper?’ ‘Where did you get that rug?’ I was thinking, wow this is a lot of work. If I’m doing all this work and I keep getting more followers and I keep getting more questions about sources, this is starting to feel like a job. I need to figure out if I’m going to monetize this or if this is going to be a hobby.
That shift happened in 2022. I was just posting things for fun, very much a hobby. And in 2022, I went to my first DIYers conference in Atlanta, and the Southern Gail became a business.
It’s grown astronomically since then. In 2023, I went from 30K followers to more than 100K; by January 2024, I had 200K followers. It was a big year in follower count.
I have a lot of followers on TikTok and Facebook, but Instagram is definitely my main platform. And I see a lot of growth opportunities. This is just the beginning.
Now I have a management team, I work with brands — big ones like Williams-Sonoma and smaller local ones — and I have affiliate links. A company wants to do a product line with me — that would be really special. I’m always open-minded. I don’t want to get into manufacturing. I don’t need to learn anything else! But to have my own line with a reputable company where I could come in with the design elements — ‘Ooh, what if we
The master bedroom.
made this print lattice? What if we add a scallop on this? What if we offer embroidery? What if we do a double cord instead of single?’ That could be really fun.
I’m so thankful that I can call this a career. I never in a million years expected that me sharing my house online was going to be a career for me. I’m amazed and so appreciative that my followers want to watch my little side of the Internet. It’s just mind blowing to me.
What happens when you finish your home?
I tell everyone that my house will never be done. I’m right now embarking on a huge renovation with a kitchen addition and a covered patio, bumping both directions and into the yard, and then sideways with the garage to create a scullery. It’s a massive undertaking. I still have an original 1936 pink bathroom I need to take care of. I have an attic to work on, a basement. I’m working on my closet right now. I’m sure the kids’ rooms will need to be redone and their bathroom. I mean, I will never finish this house.
It’s a process. I thought my dining room was done. Apparently, it’s not. But I try to go room by room and be very intentional. I spend a lot of time weighing all of the options, ordering lots of fabrics. I like to spend time, finish that room, then move on to the next one.
A lot of DIYers do the One Room Challenge, where they challenge you to finish a room in eight weeks. My mudroom [pictured on the cover] was part of my One Room Challenge — we gutted it, put in a new subfloor and a heated floor. I laid the tile, I built the cabinetry, I painted everything, I did a lot of the ceiling. It was a hustle. But I got it done. And it kickstarted me into finishing one room at a time.
Another view of Disner's son's bedroom.
Do your degrees lend themselves to what you’re doing now?
As a science major, you have to learn how to be very meticulous with details. Nothing is intuitive. You can slowly learn that 2+2=4, but you can’t slowly learn how a cellular structure is made up of oxygen and hydrogen. So I think that studying science means that you’re always seeking answers, you’re driven to learn. That is the definition of using power tools and doing all these projects.
People ask how I know how to do all these projects myself. I had to learn. I had to watch 10 different YouTube videos of different builders doing it, analyze them and ask questions.People don’t always understand that you just have to take time to teach yourself how to do some of these things.
Obviously, the business degree helped with looking at the big picture, analyzing aspects and figuring out my squat analysis. What are my weaknesses? What are my opportunities? While using my master’s in healthcare I specifically dealt in operations, and that’s what managing home renovations is. Everything I’ve done has truly helped me get to what I am doing now.
Is your design aesthetic influenced by your Southern roots?
My roots have influenced me 100 percent. I lived in Arizona where they love Frank Lloyd Wright and midcentury modern, like we do here, too. I appreciate good design no matter what the style, but it’s not what I would personally choose.
In the South, you see these old, beautiful Georgian Colonial mansions, and in your mind, that’s the pinnacle. There are Colonials everywhere, of course, but not like in the South.
It takes time to find your style. Maturity and experience help, after you buy that first house you experiment. Instead of the house or a big box store telling you what your style is, you can actually think about what you want.
What does ‘Smaximalist’ mean and how do you achieve it?
I was having a hard time describing my style. I would say, well, it’s Southern, but it’s not old and stuffy like Grandma’s house, and it’s not Grandmillennial and I don’t do pastels. It’s Southern Traditional Maximalist. So I coined my own word. I call it ‘Smaximalist.’ I think it’s a good interpretation of my design style.
We have a very traditional home. It’s not necessarily Southern. It’s got a lot of warm wood tones that help ground the space and very fresh elements to update it. I don’t want to feel like it’s stuck in the past.
I want to have modern-day amenities and feel fresh and clean and new.
I consider blues and greens to be neutrals, and that’s what our home is, warmed with wood and brass mixed in. I have a vitrine from the 1700s — it’s a huge antique piece of brown furniture. A lot of women might not want a bunch of brown furniture in their house, but I have so much brown furniture, and my house is so bright and airy. I have brown floors. There’s brown everywhere. It gets a
bad rap; everybody would go to the big box department stores and buy all brown furniture, and it was a lot. But my son’s bed was my grandmother’s from her house. I have a huge brown secretary at the top of my stairs. It’s how you mix it in.
Picking wallpaper, updating your molding and the shapes of furniture, all of the sightlines, how you arrange things in the room — it all works together. I have these Chesterfield sofas that are a very traditional silhouette, but they’re covered in white Perennial fabric. You can pour a whole cup of coffee on it and it will be fine. I have this big, white modern marble coffee table but I mix in a lot of traditional elements. They marry together to make it feel really fresh.
My favorite thing in my house is probably the wallpaper and the molding.
I think those make the biggest impact. I’ve also spent a lot of energy on lighting, because it can ruin a space if it’s wrong. My main statement lighting throughout the house is a collection through Visual Comfort. It’s gilded and people always think it’s the original light fixture. Nope, it’s brand new. I try to select things in a way that you don’t really know. The molding in the dining room was very farmhouse and low-hanging. I didn’t like it, but I kept the corner built-in with the arched glass doors, added molding 2/3 up the wall and did a raised panel with a picture ledge. It’s stunning and it makes the whole room. But it’s not original. I’ve tried to update while still staying true to the house. We didn’t want an open floor plan. We didn’t want to tear walls out. We wanted it to function in the way that it was meant to function — and it functions very well in that way.
My husband got full design control of his office. I wanted to paint the dark paneling white, he said ‘no way’ and I thought it was going to
look terrible. But he refused. And I’m so glad! It’s got Ralph Lauren vibes — it’s what the room was meant to be. I put in wool carpeting, there are Ralph Lauren print-inspired custom drapes, a leather chair, a framed American flag above the fireplace. It’s so Americana.
What do you love about what you’re doing?
I feel like I am meant for this job. I feel like everything that I have done has led me to where I am today: my life experience, living in New York City, getting my MBA, having a wedding- and event-planning company and selling real estate. I feel like I have a unique perspective from doing all of those different things. This is the perfect job for me. This is the career that I could have never even dreamed of.
Ultimately, I hope that I’m able to help people, even in a very small way, like sourcing a rug or wallpaper so you don’t have to hire an interior designer. My plan is to continue to be a home content creator and to inspire other women to make their house a home,whether that means hiring it out or picking up power tools or just hanging the dang wallpaper already — if it’s shopping at Goodwill or estate sales, or sewing curtains themselves. I talk a lot about what to look for and how to work the high-low and the newold together. It doesn’t matter where you get it: Just make it yours.
Disner in her mudroom
2025 WOMEN of Birmingham
WE ASKED WHO INSPIRES YOU — AND YOU ANSWERED IN DROVES.
ARTICLE BY LYNNE KONSTANTIN
We asked who inspires you — and you answered in droves. We wish we could include every nominated woman because all of you inspire us.
Here, Birmingham City Lifestyle shines a spotlight on some of the women from our community who lift each other up in their everyday lives — who lead, inspire and transform Birmingham and Bloomfield with their brilliance and heart. And thank you to everyone who participated — we cheer you all.
ALISON CATHERINE WHITE
Title Area Marketing Director, Saks Global, Saks Fifth Avenue, Troy and St. Louis, overseeing strategic marketing programs and curating high-end experiences featuring designers, brands and world events. Her professional journey spans impressive venues, working with Madison Square Garden Entertainment and Walt Disney Company.
Public service White has a remarkable track record of community service, raising more than $700,000 for community organizations, including NF Forward, Children’s Foundation, Breast Cancer Awareness, ORT, Jalen Rose Foundation, Detroit Symphony Orchestra and the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.
Background Born and raised in a coastal beach town in Delaware, where her family’s roots date back to the 1800s, she is a former Miss Delaware who placed in the Top 15 of the Miss America Pageant. Pursuing a passion for music with a focus on opera, she’s performed at venues including the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Tanglewood with the Boston Symphony Orchestra and the National Anthem at MLB and NBA games.
Life philosophy “First and foremost is my unwavering faith in God and the transformative power of prayer, which guide my actions and decisions. Family is also a cornerstone of my life,” she says.
“I firmly believe in the importance of perseverance; never giving up on my dreams is essential for both personal and professional fulfillment, while striving to make decisions that reflect my values.
“I deeply value my friendships. I have cultivated a strong circle of friends who believe in me and stand by my side as my unwavering cheerleaders.”
Leadership approach I recognize that my greatest asset is the talent of my team; I believe in uplifting my team and fostering an environment where everyone feels empowered to contribute their best.”
The community says “Alison’s ability for building strong client relationships and orchestrating high-end events and experiences within a luxury market is unmatched. She has helped raise more than $350,000 just for NF Forward.
“She is always available for her work, associates and clients. I don’t know how many boards she’s on, but the Children’s Hospital is one and that’s as good as it gets for me. Her work is meticulous and thoughtful. She is genuinely one of the most kind, giving and caring people I know.”
Photo by Shelby Dubin. Styled by Betsy Gould
Title Owner of Melissa Douglas Co brand photography and Gold & Grit Studio in Corktown
Family Married with two daughters adopted from foster care
Personal philosophy “To honor God with my time and talents. I believe that in both work and daily life, we should incorporate fun into the moments.”
Why she does it “As a photographer for business owners, my goal is to help others showcase their work and their business,” Douglas says. “I believe this is an important component in serving others since it allows for others to market their businesses. I also own a photography studio that I rent out to other photographers called Gold & Grit Studio. It’s a great community resource for others to come and create beautiful images for their clients.”
T he community says “Melissa is a gem. She is heavily involved in the foster-care community and recently fostered-to-adopt two young girls with her husband, Shane. She has owned multiple small businesses in the Detroit area. She also runs a business networking group in the Metro Detroit area as well. She’s well-known across the town and is highly regarded.”
MELISSA DOUGLAS
DAYNA MOTT AKA DAYNA OILYHAIRBOSS
Titles Artist, Mentor and Community Leader, owner of Lady Day, DNA Wellness. North American Head of Moms in Business International.
Family Husband, Anthony, and two children, who she homeschools. “My daughter is a creative theater kid with a free, loving spirit. My son is a gamer with a heart to impact the world,” she says.
Her work Mott is a business visionary who helps companies share their stories through marketing and social media. Her Moms in Business Community supports local women nationwide, with groups in Detroit, Macomb, Ann Arbor/ Ypsilanti and Birmingham that host childfriendly, accessible events that “invite all people to build relationships and uplift one another,” she says.
Public service “One of my greatest joys is my Bible education work,” Mott says. “Our goal is to encourage our neighbors with lasting hope for the future. In a time of great uncertainty and divisiveness, I am determined to build my local community with unity.”
Why she does it “I want to inspire others. I want someone to look at me and say, ‘because of you, I didn’t give up,’” she says. “I tell my story often. The good and the bad, because I want others to know they are not alone. I also live by the principles that ‘the best ideas win’ and ‘aces in their places.’ As a leader, I believe we are all equal. The reason they are on the team is because I saw something uniquely special that I lacked. And so I want to elevate their gifting and talents. I want to ignite the beauty that’s always been inside them, but needed to be lit.
“I believe that in the business world, I am meant to be a bridge. In the Metro Detroit area, we are incredibly diverse but still segregated,” she says. “Someone has to go first in love and unity. I am an advocate for change. I am not afraid to step into new rooms and speak up for equity. In all of the organizations that I am affiliated with, there is a common theme — I want to be a part of making the world a little better than when I found it.”
The community says “Dayna is a trailblazer and innovator. She has a unique way of bringing the community together. As a mom running her own business, she experienced first-hand the challenges of networking and raising children. As a well-respected community advocate, she is bringing a diverse collective together. She is on a mission to break down barriers.”
Personal philosophy “The journey of actualizing your full potential in this lifetime is pretty awesome and I wish this for everyone,” Stimmel says. “You can rise up from anything.”
Giving back Stimmel works with clients in 1:1 mentorship, group programs and retreats on aligning their body, mind, heart and spirit to create life-changing healing and transformation in themselves, their relationships and their businesses.
On being nominated “What a gift to be acknowledged and honored in this community,” she says. “I truly believe that I create safe spaces for people to take off their armour and the masks they present to the world. I get to witness the light come back to life in my clients’ eyes and their souls light on fire to live again, not just survive.”
Why she does it “I love being a mom, my parents are my biggest supporters, I have the best friends in the world and I am six years sober,” she says. “So grateful to God.”
The community says “Meghan’s unwavering dedication to mental health, emotional well-being and whole-person healing has made a profound impact on the lives of so many women in the community. With a deep commitment to integrative care, Meghan seamlessly blends traditional psychotherapy with holistic modalities, ensuring that each client receives personalized, compassionate and empowering support. Her work goes beyond symptom management — she helps people reconnect with themselves, fostering resilience, self-awareness and lasting transformation.
“Beyond her clinical expertise, Meghan is a true advocate for community wellness. Whether through workshops, speaking engagements or one-on-one sessions, she cultivates a space where people feel seen, heard and supported on their journey toward healing. Her ability to combine evidence-based techniques with a warm, intuitive presence makes her a beacon of hope in the mental health field. Her dedication, compassion and innovation make her an outstanding candidate for this honor. It is a privilege to recognize her contributions.”
Photo by Yasmine Carmen
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Christina McKenna. Hair by Heather Foster, Bombshell Salon in Birmingham
ARTICLE BY SUSAN THWING
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALY DARIN
WARDROBE STYLING BY JON JORDAN
The voice whispering in the ear of America’s leaders.
In the high-stakes world of corporate leadership, where every word can influence markets, policies and reputations, Christina McKenna stands as an indispensable guide. As the founder and president of Bluestone Executive Communications, McKenna has built a career helping America’s top corporate and community leaders master the art of impactful communication.
Her journey to this niche was far from linear, with a resume spanning four distinct careers.
Born and raised in Detroit, Birmingham-based McKenna pursued her passion for storytelling at the University of Chicago before earning a master’s degree from Columbia University’s Graduate School of Journalism. She spent 12 years as a TV news reporter and anchor in major markets like Boston, Seattle and Detroit, covering politics, business and breaking news.
Her career took a turn when she transitioned into academia. She served as a full-time faculty member at Boston’s Suffolk University, where she taught writing and journalism. Her next role, as spokesperson for the Fortune 500 company Boston Edison, provided her with firsthand experience in high-pressure corporate communications.
After returning to Michigan to pursue a position in corporate communications, McKenna found herself repeatedly asked to train executives in media relations and public speaking.
innovations to market to making the world safer,” McKenna says. “Many have risen to leadership through expertise in finance, engineering or other technical fields, but communication isn’t always their strongest skill. We help them become even more effective communicators, amplifying their impact; and that, to me, is incredibly rewarding.”
McKenna is keenly aware of the challenges women face in leadership roles.
“Without a doubt, women often have to work harder to command the room,” she says. “Hard work alone is not enough. Women must be mindful of their professional brand, advocate for themselves and develop an authoritative presence.”
“I really wanted a big corporate job, but people kept asking me to do this,” she says. “I said, well, I'm gonna hang out a shingle and double down on this — so this career really found me. I will tell you it is the most fun, the most rewarding and I absolutely love what I do.”
Bluestone Executive Communications (bluestoneexec.com), in Birmingham, was born in 2013.
“Our clients — CEOs, company presidents, university leaders — are doing meaningful, impactful work, from bringing
She stresses the importance of preparation and clarity. “One of the biggest mistakes I see is people jumping into a speech or meeting without defining their goal. That’s like getting in a car and driving without knowing your destination.”
One of McKenna’s most notable success stories involves a high-ranking executive in Houston who struggled with public speaking.
“A CEO of a large Houston nonprofit had one crucial night a year to raise significant funds, but she struggled to quiet the room and capture attention at her gala. She turned to us for help, taking one of our courses,” McKenna says. “The next time she stepped on stage, everything changed — she commanded the room, delivered a powerful speech and shattered fundraising goals. More than 100 people approached her that night, saying her words had moved them deeply. She later told us it was the most compelling and effective speech she had ever given — a transformation that was incredibly gratifying for us to witness.”
McKenna firmly believes that knowing one’s values and standing by them is crucial to success. “One thing that has really helped me is knowing what I stand for — what my values are and what’s important to me. Providing
something that is truly helpful to other people makes such a difference,” she says.
She recognizes that many professionals dread the communication aspect of their jobs.
“There are so many people in engineering, finance or business who love their work but don’t want to deal with the communication piece. We love helping them realize that no matter what your role is, until you communicate about your work, your work is not done.”
McKenna also underscores the importance of legacy. “Everybody is only in their role for a finite amount of time. They’re only at their company for a limited time. They’re only in their career for so many years. And they’re only on this planet for a certain number of years. To help people become more impactful communicators means helping them share what they’ve done with others and bring meaning to their work. That’s what creates a lasting legacy.”
Despite her demanding career, McKenna prioritizes family — her husband, Christopher Walton, and their two teenage sons.
“It takes great scheduling, a strong support system and cutting yourself some slack,” she says. “You’re doing better than you think.”
She acknowledges that finding balance is an ongoing challenge but believes it’s about making intentional choices. “Some days, work takes priority. Other days, family does. The key is to be present wherever you are.”
From coaching CEOs to attending her sons’ baseball games, McKenna has crafted a life where impact and fulfillment coexist. And for those looking to elevate their leadership presence, she remains the trusted voice whispering in their ear, ensuring they deliver pitch-perfect communication when it matters most.
“Our clients — CEOs, company presidents, university leaders — are doing meaningful, impactful work. But communication isn’t always their strongest skill. We help them become even more effective communicators, amplifying their impact; and that, to me, is incredibly rewarding.”
— Christina McKenna
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ARTICLE BY LINDA DITCH
Finding a Good Night’s Sleep
A mother-daughter duo succeeds in the male-dominated world of mattresses.
When Mattresses & Beyond (new.mattressesandbeyond.com) opened in Royal Oak in 2007, it became Michigan’s first women-owned, mother-daughter mattress store.
Daughter Robin Zurla was searching for a career that was both interesting and fulfilling. After testing a few jobs that didn’t hit the mark, she and her mom, Mary Jo Dinha, teamed up.
“We decided to do some research and try to figure out what we wanted to do together,” Zurla says. “We didn‘t think specifically about selling mattresses and furniture. It just came to us. She and I have a good relationship. We each have our own strong suits. I‘m more in the business, on the showroom floor, whereas she takes care of things behind-the-scenes.”
The duo didn‘t want to be a standard mattress store. Their goals were twofold: Firstly, to create a specialty mattress shop that carried lines not found in the Metro Detroit area, such as organic mattresses, hospitality bedding and quality mattresses with 15- to 25-year warranties. Secondly, to offer old-fashioned customer service with staff who can explain the differences between each type of mattress in the store.
Zurla says, “We felt that was really important. Customers can go into a store and have someone tell them a mattress has coils and foam, and is medium firm. You can have 10 different mediums, but each medium mattress will feel a hair different, depending on how it’s made.”
The mattress-sales industry is typically male-dominated — and women often face the challenge of not being taken seriously. Zurla notes it’s a common occurrence for her and her female colleagues in the industry.
“There can be an assumption that we lack knowledge, which becomes evident at conventions where I have to prove my expertise to gain respect,” Zurla says. ”My friend in car sales has a similar experience. Historically, women were rarely seen in this field due to stereotypes about their ability to sell products traditionally associated with men. However, if you know your subject well, gender should not determine your capability to sell any product effectively.”
HOW TO CHOOSE A MATTRESS
Robin Zurla shares these tips for finding the the perfect fit:
• Comfort & Budget: Prioritize comfort but stick to your budget. Choose a slightly pricier mattress if it’s more comfortable.
• Foundation: Consider adjustable bases, box springs or platforms. Foundations affect feel and lifespan; replace old box springs along with the mattress.
• Personal Preference: Reflect on firmness level and type (innerspring, latex, hybrid, memory foam). Determine desired mattress longevity and spine support.
• Sleeping Position: Side sleepers need medium-firm, medium, soft or plush for pressure relief. Back sleepers prefer extra firm, firm or medium-firm for spine alignment. Stomach sleepers need firm or medium-firm to prevent sinking.
• Body Type: Heavier torsos typically prefer firmer mattresses; lighter torsos lean toward medium-firm or soft. Light sleepers should consider mattresses with minimal motion transfer.
• Testing: Spend 10-15 minutes lying on mattresses in your usual sleeping positions. Compare and test longer to find the most comfortable option.
• Sleep Accessories: Consider bed height, frame, pillows, sheets and protectors that enhance sleep comfort.
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
From Stem To Vase:
TRANSFORMING FLORALS INTO ART
Flowers have a rich history of symbolic meanings. As far back as the 19th century, they were used to convey secret messages. Stories throughout history recount how flowers were used to send hidden messages between people. French publishers began producing flower dictionaries that cataloged the many floral codes that had been gathered over time. Some of these meanings were linked to the flower’s root name, often derived from mythology, while others were drawn from the flowers themselves. The colors, medicinal properties, and even the superstitions associated with these flowers all contributed to the creation of this secret language. In addition to their symbolic significance, flowers bring natural beauty to any interior, enhancing spaces with their color, texture, and mood-boosting qualities. Floral arrangements not only create a cozy atmosphere but also infuse a room with personality, elevating the overall ambiance. There are multiple ways to creatively integrate florals into your home, and whether using fresh or artificial flowers, creative displays can make quite the statement piece.
CONTINUED >
“Floral arrangements not only create a cozy atmosphere but also infuse a room with personality, elevating the overall ambiance.”
Flower Frogs
Using a frog to display flowers creates a minimalist yet elegant look that highlights the individuality of each bloom. It helps the stems stay in place. To set it up, place the frog on your chosen display base, whether it’s a vase, bowl, platter, or any container you prefer. Then, simply insert the flower stems by gently pressing them into the prongs. Tip: Flowers with sturdy stems and a lighter top work best in a frog, as delicate blooms tend to lose their shape more quickly.
“Tip: Flowers with sturdy stems and a lighter top work best in a frog, as delicate blooms tend to lose their shape more quickly.”
Florals and Fruit
“Not only will the flowers’ fragrance fill the air, but the citrus notes from the fruit will add a refreshing scent.”
Add an extra burst of color and texture to your floral arrangement by layering fruit around the edges of your vase. To achieve this, place a smaller vase inside a larger one, ensuring the flowers stay contained in the inner vase to preserve their shape. Fill the surrounding space with water and then arrange sliced fruit along the vase’s outer sides. For a fresh touch, add ice cubes to keep the fruit looking vibrant longer and to hold them in place. Not only will the flowers’ fragrance fill the air, but the citrus notes from the fruit will add a refreshing scent.
Hanging Florals
For a dramatic effect, try creating a hanging floral display. Floral cones are available for this style, or you can craft your own for a more personalized, organic look. The contrast between long-stemmed white flowers and a dark wall creates a striking visual impact.
No matter how you choose to display them, flowers are a wonderful addition to any room. They boost mood, improve air quality, spark creativity, and bring a decorative charm to any space.
“They boost mood, improve air quality, spark creativity, and bring a decorative charm to any space.”
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ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMY SALVAGNO
Elevated Cocktails for Brunch Beyond &
3 Fun Spirits To Spoil Mom With This Mother’s Day
Whether Mom prefers to dine reclining pillow-side in pajamas or beside a beautifully dressed table, she’ll appreciate an elegant, elevated cocktail to make her brunch menu extra special. So while she’s indulging in a few extra pieces of bacon, savoring bites of flaky quiche and luxuriating over berry and whipped creamtopped pancakes, impress her with one of these three morning-friendly mixes.
Gin Jam &
A simple ingredient drink unites the botanical complexity of gin with the rich sweetness of your favorite jam.
Ingredients:
• 2 ounces gin
• 1 ounce lemon juice
• 1/2 ounce simple syrup
• 1 teaspoon raspberry (or your favorite) jam
• Spoonful of jam for garnish
Instructions:
1. Add the gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and jam to your mixing glass.
2. Add ice and shake for 10 seconds.
3. Strain into a double old-fashioned glass over crushed ice.
4. Top with a spoonful of jam and stir it in while you sip.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups orange juice
• 1/2 cup tequila
• 1/4 cup lime juice
• Lime wedge, for rimming glasses
• Coarse salt, for rimming glasses
• 1 bottle champagne or Prosecco
• Orange and lime slices for serving
Instructions:
1. In a pitcher, combine orange juice, tequila and lime juice and stir to combine.
2. Line glass rims with lime and dip in salt. Pour in orange juice mixture and top off with champagne.
3. Add sliced oranges and limes to glasses and serve.
Margarita Mimosas
Sweet and tart combined with classic champagne bubbles make for the perfect brunch accompaniment.
Instructions:
1. Infuse vodka: Tear five basil leaves into small pieces and place into a small glass jar with vodka. Seal tightly and shake, refrigerate, then infuse for at least six hours, shaking the jar occasionally.
2. Make basil sugar: In a small food processor, combine sugar and remaining basil. Pulse until basil is chopped into small, uniform pieces and sugar is pale green.
3. Strain vodka into a glass measuring cup, squeezing basil leaves to release any remaining liquid.
4. Rim glasses: Pour basil sugar onto a small, shallow plate. Fill another shallow plate with water until a quarter-inch deep. Dip the rim of each glass first in water, then in basil sugar.
5. Assemble cocktail: Divide basil vodka between glasses, then add half-cup lemonade to each. Fill glasses with ice cubes and top with seltzer. Garnish with lemon slices.
Ingredients:
• 9 large basil leaves, divided
• 4 ounces vodka
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup lemonade
• Ice
• Seltzer
• Lemon slices, for garnish
Spiked Lemonade
This refreshing twist on a springtime favorite is enhanced with the sweetness of basil and turns the spirit a vibrant green.
SPREAD SPECTACULAR
TRANSFORM YOUR MOTHER’S DAY CELEBRATION INTO AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE WITH A STUNNING CHARCUTERIE BOARD
As Mother’s Day approaches, it’s time to go beyond traditional gifts As Mother’s Day approaches, it’s time to go beyond traditional gifts and express your love with a feast for the senses. Create a captivating and vibrant charcuterie board that brings together a symphony of sweet and savory delights, edible rosettes and an array of delectable treats that are as pleasing to the eyes as they are to the palate. At the heart of this spectacular spread, a bouquet of floral offerings takes center stage featuring assorted chocolate florets, delicate white rose wafers, and salami and cheese blossoms. Perfectly crafted and delicious, they establish the visual and gastronomic theme for the
entire display. Accompanying the spread are glasses adorned with edible floral rims, beckoning you to sip and savor the essence of spring; dried lavender, marigold, rose, lemon peel and lily garnishes provide vibrancy and are entirely edible. Elevate the visual appeal with rosefolded napkins and a sprinkle of seasonal flowers atop layers of fresh greenery.
Complement your floral artistry with a curated variety of cheeses, prosciutto, colorful olives, fresh blueberries and strawberries, and candied oranges. Fragrant rosemary bread is perfectly paired with choice preserves, honey and olive oil.
Extend the creative flair to pastries, introducing a variety of shapes, colors and textures. Citrus-infused sugar cookies,
raspberry tarts, mini strawberry Belgian waffles and salted caramels are visually alluring and add an extra layer of delight to the overall presentation.
The beauty of crafting a charcuterie board lies in its versatility – an opportunity to showcase your thoughtfulness and create an experience tailored to your loved ones. Consider swapping chocolates for macarons, experiment with your own garden herbs and infuse your spread with unique seasonal and local flavors. A charcuterTEA is a delightful way to make your mother feel extra special. Simply fill a teacup with her favorite confections and unique flavor combinations for an individual experience of love and gratitude.
“It
Home Improvement Dreams to Life
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
THROUGH MAY 11TH
Tulip Time Festival
Downtown Holland, Mich.
See millions of tulips in bloom. Since 1929, the city of Holland, Mich., has blossomed with hundreds of thousands of tulips — and just as many tulip-lovers attending the annual Tulip Time Festival. Experience national entertainment acts, events and activities for all ages, breathtaking sights off the shores of Lake Michigan and some of the largest parades in Michigan. Tuliptime.com
THROUGH JUNE 14
Grease Comes to St. Dunstan’s
St. Dunstan’s Theatre, Bloomfield Hills | 8:00 PM
Step back into the 1950s with Grease, the electrifying musical set at Rydell High that has captured hearts for generations. Featuring songs including “Summer Nights,” “Greased Lightnin’” and “You’re the One That I Want,” Grease is the ultimate feel-good musical that will have you singing along and dancing in your seat. Stdunstanstheatre.com
THROUGH AUGUST 31ST
Portrait Photos at Cranbrook Gardens
Cranbrook House & Gardens, Bloomfield Hills
The scenic gardens, iconic artwork and other natural and tended outdoor spaces at Cranbrook Gardens are now available as an unforgettable backdrop for your family, engagement, wedding, senior and other portrait photos — great gift for Mom. Registration is required. If you are a Cranbrook Schools high school senior, employee or current family, email photos@cranbrook. edu for special accommodation. Housegardens.cranbrook.edu/events
MAY 3RD
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Forbidden Broadway: Merrily We Stole a Song
Fisher Theatre, Detroit
"Forbidden Broadway" has been a theatrical institution since 1982, when Gerard Alessandrini created the first edition that lampooned the Broadway shows and stars of the day (who often stopped by to laugh at themselves alongside the public) with mad humor and incredible musical talent. Garnering international acclaim, the witty, punchier-than-ever musical comedy has been called "devastatingly funny" and "gloriously hysterical."
MAY 10TH
Women Helping Women Luncheon & Fashion Show
Royal Park Hotel, Rochester | 10:00 AM Grace Centers of Hope relies on donors and community partners to help serve the homeless and addicted. Their Women Helping Women Luncheon & Fashion Show, a 600-attendee fashion show will showcase models from RGA Model Management plus transformed women from their 1-year program. Enjoy exciting raffle prizes, more than 125 amazing silent auction items and a delicious luncheon.
MAY 15TH
Lighthouse's
Annual Rent Party
The Treasury, Pontiac | 5:30 PM
In the 1920s, rent parties raised money for rent, and were an influence on the development of jazz and blues. Lighthouse's Rent Party brings together community and live music — funds raised support Lighthouse's core services, including family emergency shelter and housing programs that provide a safe place for local families and children to get back on their feet. Lighthousemi.org/rentparty
