Blue Springs, MO May 2025 by City Lifestyle

With Love to the Leading Ladies

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 wives, mothers, and daughters are some of the most influential women in our lives.

And of course, with Mother’s Day this month, all eyes are on moms. But it’s 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.

I have been and always will be a momma’s boy. Even as I grow older, my mom holds a very special place in my heart, and my admiration for her heart and integrity continue to grow every day. Growing up and seeing the many special qualities in my mom led me to marry a woman who has many of the exact same character traits. I’m constantly amazed at the things I learn from my wife, but more than anything, it’s her heart and the way she loves others that inspires me the most. Between my mom and my wife, I feel very lucky to have these two ladies in my life. They each play a huge role in who I am and who I strive to become.

This month I’m carrying their influence forward by connecting with and highlighting the best of the best when it comes to the women in business in Blue Springs and Grain Valley. While it’s always important to shop local and support our area businesses, May is the perfect time to patronize businesses owned by the women of our communities.

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 letter in the mail, 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.

May 2025

PUBLISHER

Austin Brewer | austinbrewer@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Katarina Brewer | katarina.brewer@citylifestyle.com

COPY EDITOR

Cheryl Leppert | cherylleppert@gmail.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Katarina Brewer, Breanna Hicks, Ronda Brewer

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Megan Cason

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

COO Matthew Perry

CRO Jamie Pentz

VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson

VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders

AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad

LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

AUSTIN BREWER, PUBLISHER @BLUESPRINGSCITYLIFESTYLE

inside the issue

city scene

NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: Therapy dog testing at Summit Zoo Pets. 2: The BSHS Golden Regiment at the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Dublin, Ireland. 3: Tru Elements owners Patty & Brandon celebrating their official grand opening. 4: Celebrating 2 years at Indoor Par Fore. 5: Castaway Destinations clients, Roger and Katie Accurso, explore Santorini as part of their Windstar Cruise. 6: A stunning ceremony setup by Fleming Floral Station with florals, crystals, and candlelit charm. 7: Filming a new KC pop-up venue with Soiree Your Way’s owner.

Want to be seen in the magazine?

CASTAWAY DESTINATIONS

DOG TRAINING ELITE KANSAS CITY

FLEMING FLORAL STATION

INDOOR PAR FORE

DR. TIM ALLSHOUSE

FOCUS + FILMS

business monthly

Honoring Jake: Giving Hope to Families Battling Childhood Cancer

The Jake Cavanaugh Foundation honors Jake’s legacy by supporting families of children battling cancer. Over the past 14 years, the foundation has donated over $313,000 to families and $60,000 to Children’s Mercy Hospital. This year, Jake’s St. Patrick’s Day Celebration raised an incredible $38,000, allowing the foundation to provide $8,000 to each of the four families they are currently supporting. Visit www.jakecavanaugh.com to learn more about The Jake Cavanaugh Foundation and ways you can help.

Exciting Growth at Plaza Heights Christian Academy

Plaza Heights Christian Academy is expanding for the 2025-2026 school year with the addition of three new classrooms, allowing for an increased selection of electives for secondary students. Upgrades to campus security have been implemented, and renovations on locker rooms and bathrooms are set to begin in the summer. Plaza Heights Christian Academy continues to grow, thanks to the support of dedicated families and generous donors who make these advancements possible.

BSHS Golden Regiment Shines in Ireland

The Blue Springs High School Golden Regiment proudly represented Blue Springs in Dublin’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade, earning “Best Overall Band” with an energetic performance. The Wildcat Jazz Ensemble also performed at the Helix Theatre, receiving three standing ovations and an invitation to collaborate with Celtic Thunder. Students enjoyed cultural experiences across Ireland, from Gaelic Games to visiting the Cliffs of Moher. The band department is grateful for the community and school district’s continued support.

Photography by Karen Walls

Photography by Plaza Heights Christian Academy

Photography by Jake Cavanaugh Foundation

Best Today and a Better Tomorrow

GET STARTED ON YOUR DENTAL HEALTH JOURNEY WITH THE INCREDIBLE TEAM OF WOMEN AT ONCE UPON A SMILE

Calming, inviting, enjoyable. How many dental offices can you describe that way? For many, one dental office comes to mind and that is Once Upon A Smile. Dr. Tiffani Uberroth and her compassionate team strive every day to make going to the dentist a pleasant experience for all. Since its opening by Dr. Natalie Beltgens, Once Upon A Smile has been serving the community for 25 years, with a majority of the team having been part of the practice for more than a decade. Building upon the strong foundation Dr. Beltgens created, the team uses her inspiration to continue to grow their office into a compassion-filled dental home, and live out her example everyday in their care for their patients.

GIVE > GET TOGETHER WITH WE > ME

Not only do the amazing team at Once Upon A Smile care about their patients, they care about everyone in their community. By participating in community outreach programs or hosting a drive, the women of Once Upon A Smile give back to their community every month. When asked about how they have recently impacted their community, Dr. Uberroth quickly recalled how her team, with the help of anonymous donations, was able to provide free dental care to a woman in our community who can now smile again. In the words of this patient; “They have gone above and beyond..I feel as though they’re saving my life! Every step of the way, they’ve gone out of their way to make me feel comfortable and ease my fears.”

ARTICLE BY BREANNA HICKS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MEGAN CASON

GRATITUDE ATTITUDE

Consistent, small acts of gratitude is how Dr. Uberroth lives her life, and encourages each of her team members to do the same. By continuing to provide excellent service and care, they show their appreciation for their patients every day. Dr. Uberroth would like to take this moment to share her appreciation of her team with each of you.

“A huge shoutout and thank you to my amazing team! Words cannot express how truly lucky I feel to work alongside this group of incredibly kind, hardworking, thoughtful, and dedicated women. Your strength, compassion, energy, and grace inspire me each and every daythank you for being the beautiful people that you are! I cannot imagine being on this journey with anyone else; I am excited to continue to grow and achieve great things together.”

POSITIVE VIBES ONLY

Whether you have always loved visiting the dentist or associate your dental appointments with anxiety, you are sure to feel at home at Once Upon A Smile. From the moment you walk in the door, you will be amongst a friendly dental team who want to help you get to where you want to be. So no matter where you are in your oral health journey, you are sure to experience a calming atmosphere with genuine people who are ready to sit down and discuss your concerns and create a personalized treatment plan. Overall, Once Upon A Smile will meet you where you’re at while empowering you to take an active role in your dental health and will walk alongside you to promote the progress you desire.

“They’re saving my life!” —Very Satisfied Patient

“Come smile with us!”

WITH INTEGRITY

“Without trust, I cannot do what I do.” says Dr. Uberroth, who does not take the trust of her patients lightly. To cultivate that level of trust, the women of Once Upon A Smile involve their patients at every step. From treatment options to costs and possible outcomes, you are guaranteed an upfront and honest discussion before making any decisions about your dental health. Dr. Uberroth says it best when she says “I am not a salesperson. I am a guide in oral health aiming to help patients be as healthy as possible…I am a partner as well as provider.”

So what are you waiting for? Call Once Upon A Smile and get started on your dental health journey. They are ready and waiting to get to know you and learn how they can better serve you as well as the community.

Front row: Ginny, Dr. Uberroth, Summer Middle row: Leslie, Ashton Back row: Shellie, Lina, Sally Not Pictured: Dani, Jenn

CASIE BATEMAN

Queen Bee Boutique and The Vintage Bee

women who lead & inspire

Four local business owners share their journeys and lessons

ARTICLE BY KATARINA BREWER PHOTOGRAPHY BY MEGAN CASON

WHAT LED YOU TO MAKE THE COURAGEOUS DECISION TO OPEN YOUR OWN BUSINESS?

I’ve always been passionate about creating a space where small businesses and creatives can thrive. My husband, David, and I saw an opportunity to combine modern boutique shopping with vintage finds under one roof. Supporting local vendors and giving them a platform was something our community needed, and we believed in our vision. Today, Queen Bee Boutique and The Vintage Bee are the only businesses of their kind in Kansas City, bringing curated shopping, vintage treasures, and antiques together.

HOW HAVE YOU FELT THE SUPPORT OF BLUE SPRINGS SINCE OPENING QUEEN BEE BOUTIQUES AND THE VINTAGE BEE?

The support has been incredible! We’ve truly felt the love from customers attending events to nearly 300 local vendors thriving in our space. To continue growing, we’re excited to launch a collaborative bistro this fall, highlighting local food and drink. Blue Springs values local businesses, and that makes all the difference.

WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST LESSON IN OWNING AND OPERATING A BUSINESS?

Success isn’t a solo effort—it takes a team and a community. Communication, collaboration, and adaptability are key. Retail is always evolving, and we strive to grow with it.

WHAT LED YOU TO MAKE THE COURAGEOUS DECISION TO OPEN YOUR OWN BUSINESS?

I had always dreamed of owning a cafe’, so opening the Bean Counter Cafe’ allowed me to combine my love of baking and organic gardening. While attending the Kauffman Foundation Small Business Entrepreneur Fast Track Program, I wrote a business plan, never expecting the opportunity to come so soon. When my husband, Tony, started graduate school, I received a call that gave us the chance to make that dream a reality with minimal financial risk. We weighed our options, reviewed my collection of perfected recipes, and took the leap.

HOW HAVE YOU FELT THE SUPPORT OF BLUE SPRINGS SINCE OPENING THE BEAN COUNTER CAFE?

Our journey started as a small coffee shop in the back of Lead Bank—a “little secret.” As the community grew, so did our customer base. Moving to Main Street in May 2023 transformed us into a gathering place for friends, families, and neighbors.

WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST LESSON IN OWNING AND OPERATING A BUSINESS?

Creating a great work environment is key. A friendly, welcoming atmosphere keeps people coming back and sharing their experience with others.

SARA O’BRYAN

The Bean Counter Cafe

WHAT LED YOU TO MAKE THE COURAGEOUS DECISION TO OPEN YOUR OWN BUSINESS?

After 15 years as a hairstylist and manager, I was shocked when the owner of Salon Bellezzio asked if I wanted to buy the salon. I was just starting my family, but it was an honor that she saw such potential in me. She was an incredible mentor, but running a salon wasn’t her passion. I’ve always loved making clients feel beautiful, and I knew that by coaching and mentoring other stylists, we could build a thriving business together.

HOW HAVE YOU FELT THE SUPPORT OF BLUE SPRINGS SINCE OPENING SALON BELLEZZIO?

The Blue Springs community has been amazing, from loyal clients to local connections that have helped my business grow. The Chamber of Commerce has also been a great resource, providing support and guidance. Whether through referrals, partnerships, or simply showing up, the encouragement from the community has made a big impact.

WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST LESSON IN OWNING AND OPERATING A BUSINESS?

You can’t do it alone—asking for help is essential. I have two business coaches who hold me accountable and provide support that helps me grow as a business owner.

SHANON VAN DYNE

Salon Bellezzio

BECKY

BOWE Fit Learning KC

WHAT LED YOU TO MAKE THE COURAGEOUS DECISION TO OPEN YOUR OWN BUSINESS?

I never set out to be a business owner. My career began in special education, then transitioned into home-based ABA services, which I loved. But when I discovered Fit Learning, it completely reshaped how I viewed learning and behavior analysis. Its blend of evidence-based methods, urgency, and fun was unlike anything I’d seen. I knew I had to bring it to Kansas City. One of my first learners reminded me why this work is so meaningful. She started with us six years ago and now is college-bound. She still credits Fit Learning for transforming her confidence. Stories like hers reaffirm why I do this.

HOW HAVE YOU FELT THE SUPPORT OF KANSAS CITY SINCE OPENING FIT LEARNING KC?

Kansas City shows up for its own. From parents sharing stories to professionals making referrals, the support has been incredible. I’ve felt it every step of the way—kind words, connections, and emails.

WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST LESSON IN OWNING AND OPERATING A BUSINESS?

Growth is messy but worth it. Trust the process, build the right team, and stay flexible. Success takes a team.

ELITE, AWARDWINNING DOG TRAINING

At Dog Training Elite, we are passionate about service dog training. Our balanced training methods help create skilled, dependable companions that are both obedient and loyal. Our service programs can help those with PTSD, Autism Support, Medical Alert/Response, and Mobility. We are the last dog trainers you will ever need. We offer 10% off for veterans and first responders.

dogtrainingelite.com/kansas-city 816-308-6985

Custom Summer Trips Designed Just for You

The school year’s winding down—which means it’s the perfect time to plan a getaway that brings everyone together. Whether you’re dreaming of a tropical beach, an all-inclusive resort with activities for all ages, or a national park adventure with plenty of room to explore, I’ll take the stress out of planning and turn your ideas into a smooth, personalized trip.

From flights and hotels to transfers, excursions, and special touches, I handle it all—so you can focus on making memories. Let me help you make this summer one your family will never forget.

MORE workout, LESS time AT HOTWORX

Are you a person who can find any excuse NOT to exercise? Too busy. Too tired. Too expensive.

The answer to loving fitness is finding a workout program that works for YOU! We all want results that make us look better, move better, feel better and live longer. These are the keys to success for a healthier YOU!

Stephen P. Smith, founder of Hotworx, came up with the idea of using heat and exercise to transform workouts. In order for this concept to come to fruition, Steve and a manufacturer had to figure out the effective dose of infrared absorption to the human body; clients had to be exposed to the heat and energy source in a very precise manner. What they discovered has changed thousands of lives.

Hotworx’s mission statement is “More Workout, Less Time.” Their 3D Training Method combines heat, infrared energy, and exercise. The heat component speeds up your metabolism as the temperature rises, giving you more flexibility during the workout. Clients can adjust the temperature in each personal sauna between 79-130 degrees. Hotworx proudly holds a patent on its infrared saunas.

Experience the power of infrared heat and exercise for faster, more effective workouts

ARTICLE BY RONDA BREWER PHOTOGRAPHY BY MEGAN CASON

Phoebe Duplantis, Taylor Thomas, Sophie Fidler

The patented saunas use infrared energy . Clients have to be within 1 to 3 ft of the infrared heat source in order to receive effective energy absorption. This promotes deeper sweating and offers health benefits, including lowering blood pressure, improving circulation, reducing inflammation, and less joint and muscle pain.

Exercise is the third component of the 3D Method. There are two types of infrared sauna workouts: Isometrics and high intensity interval training (HIIT).

Isometric workouts include yoga, pilates, and movements that focus on glutes, abs, hips, lower back, and posture. Some benefits of isometric exercise are improving muscle strength and endurance, as well as enhancing joint stability and rehab injuries. HIIT workouts focus on high-intensity sets that raise your heart rate while you are rowing or pedaling. By adding infrared heat and energy to your HIIT workout 3-4 times per week, you will accomplish three times the results. You can bike, use an endurance and cardio machine, or use a dual pulley water rower. Some benefits of HIIT include weight loss and increased lean body mass.

The Blue Springs Hotworx location has 5 isometric and 4 HIIT infrared studios. Each studio has professional virtual trainers who lead you through your workouts. All workouts should be pain-free.

Hotworx also has a fitness area called the FX Zone, which is a non-heat area used to supplement your workouts with stretches, light weights, and ropes. This area includes interval videos to guide you through your workouts.

“The Hotworx 3D Training experience provides an array of time-efficient benefits in every session”. People who struggle with stress and depression can benefit from increased blood circulation and oxygen flow, which also helps with mental clarity.

Come visit Hotworx, take a tour, and try a free class in a fitness studio that is open 24/7. You WILL find a workout program that works for you!

Visit Hotworx Blue Springs at 721 NW State Route 7 in the Copperleaf Shopping Mall. Stop by to learn more about the different services they offer and even try a workout. Learn more and connect through their newly redesigned website: www.hotworx.net/studio/bluesprings

Make a Splash

FROM BACKYARD POOLS TO OPEN WATER, HERE’S HOW TO ENSURE A SAFE AND FUN SWIM SEASON

As summer approaches and temperatures rise, many families eagerly anticipate days spent poolside, enjoying the water and making lasting memories. With water being a part of so many summer activities, ensuring everyone stays safe is a top priority. Amy and Vince Davenport, owners of Swim Things, bring extensive experience to the table. Both are former competitive swimmers, with Amy having served as a Red Cross swim instructor for over a decade and Vince having taught swim lessons as well. Their insight highlights the importance of water safety and how proper awareness can allow people to enjoy the water without fear.

ARTICLE BY KATARINA BREWER PHOTOGRAPHY BY MEGAN CASON

ESSENTIAL WATER SAFETY MEASURES

Whether opening a pool for the season, or visiting a neighborhood pool, public facility, friend’s house, or the lake, key safety precautions should never be overlooked.

“Homeowners can enhance safety with layers of protection,” Vince shared. “Having door alarms, safety fences, water alarms, and automatic covers can help prevent accidents and provide an added level of security, especially for households with young children. At Swim Things, we also encourage people to have essential items like life rings and shepherd’s hooks as additional safety measures.”

“At Swim Things, safety is just as important as fun.”

FIVE CRITICAL WATER SAFETY TIPS

“Water safety starts with awareness and preparation,” Amy emphasized. “No matter where you’re swimming, understanding key safety principles can prevent accidents and save lives.” Here are five essential water safety tips to help ensure a fun and safe summer for everyone:

1. Learn to Back Float – This life-saving skill allows swimmers to rest and call for help.

2. Know the Water Depth – Be aware before jumping or diving to prevent injuries.

3. Identify Exits – Always know the safest way out of a pool or open water.

4. Never Swim Alone – Having a buddy or spotter is crucial.

5. Remember RTRG: Reach, Throw, Row, Go in this order –This method ensures safe rescue without endangering yourself.

At Swim Things, safety is just as important as fun. By taking the right precautions, families can enjoy a safe and memorable summer in and around the water,” Vince said. “A little preparation goes a long way in preventing accidents and ensuring that everyone has a great time.” So, as you prepare for the season, keep these tips in mind and make water safety a top priority!

DIY DAY

INSPIRATION FOR A MOTHER/ DAUGHTER DIY DAY

ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN

WITH MOM

An afternoon spent together is priceless with today’s busy schedules. Instead of going out, staying in can provide quaint, quiet one-on-one time for a mother and daughter (or multiple daughters). Finding time on calendars is the hard part, and filling that time is all fun from there. Here are a few favorite ideas for inspiration that may spark excitement for planning those special times together.

01 Charm Necklaces

Custom DIY charm necklaces and bracelets are trending. Gather a theme idea: birthstones, family initials, travels or even favorite hobbies, and procure charms from your local craft store or online shop. Selecting charms for each other also could be a fun way to bring delight to the crafting occasion. Necklaces and bracelets can be made for each other, or as future gifts for upcoming occasions such as a family wedding, a birthday milestone or an anniversary.

02 Interview Journaling

Storytelling makes for the best memories. Structure memory recall by filming or journaling interview-style question-and-answer sessions, cataloging information for future generations. Videos and notes with detailed family adventures are priceless, and we all always wish we had more of them.

03 Meal Prep

Text conversations around kitchen tips or ingredient procurement seem endless. Spend some time together in the kitchen preparing favorite family recipes, sharing Mom’s best tips and tricks. Choosing freezer-friendly meals is a great way to walk away with meals for upcoming busy days. There’s nothing like Mom’s recipes!

Mother’s Day Gift Bundle Giveaway

Merle Norman Cosmetic Studio - Blue Springs

This Mother’s Day, Merle Norman Cosmetics is celebrating moms with a special giveaway! Nominate a deserving mom for a chance to win an exclusive Mother’s Day Gift Bundle, filled with luxurious skincare and makeup essentials. One lucky winner will receive this pampering package, perfect for indulging and treating themselves to some well-deserved self-care. To learn more, email teamlutes@merlenormanstudio.com

MAY 10TH

Water Lantern Festival

Frank A. Theis Park | 5:30 PM

The Water Lantern Festival offers a unique, emotional experience for friends and families. Participants write down hopes, dreams, or letters to loved ones, then send them floating on the water, creating a magical and unforgettable memory. Enjoy food trucks and live music throughout the event. For more information, visit www.waterlanternfestival.com

MAY 11TH

Mother’s Day Brunch

Sinclair’s Restaurant | 9:30 AM

Celebrate all the special ladies in your life with a brunch as wonderful as they are. Join us at Sinclair’s for a Mother’s Day gathering filled with love, laughter, and delicious eats. Reservations are recommended, so book your table today!

Meyer has Music history

IN MARCH 1966, the Meyer family opened the first Meyer Music in Blue Springs. Over the decades, our music business has grown and flourished. We have welcomed many new Meyer family members and added two Meyer Music locations in Overland Park and Kansas City North. Today, it is not uncommon to see three generations of Meyers working in any one of the three locations. Our family’s attention to detail, customer service, and superior quality products makes Meyer Music the best choice for your family.

Investing in and suppor ting our communities

Working together to make a difference in the lives of our friends, neighbors and the community. For more information, contact your Edward Jones Financial Advisor.