Blue Springs, MO September 2024 by City Lifestyle

Embracing the Season

As summer winds down and the new school year begins, that also means Chiefs football season is just around the corner. Growing up in Kansas City, my wife and I are devoted Chiefs fans. We are thrilled to see the team defend their championship title!

September is always a busy time around our house. With my wife being a full-time teacher, we spend a good amount of time preparing for the upcoming school year. Not only does this involve setting up her classroom, but it also includes shopping for the upcoming school year’s wardrobe.

In this issue, we explore how style influences our lives, extending beyond clothing and accessories. Style shapes everything—from home decor and music choices to the books we read and how we engage in conversations.

I’ve discovered that the most compelling style is an authentic reflection of who you truly are—something uniquely yours and impossible to replicate. Style is deeply personal and evolves as we embrace our quirks, passions, and desires. It serves as a form of self-expression, revealing how we see the world and what we value. In this sense, style becomes a powerful connector, helping us find common ground with others who share our aesthetic sensibilities.

We are truly grateful to be part of a community rich with diverse businesses that enable everyone to express and celebrate their unique styles. Fashion and design extend beyond clothing, encompassing the aesthetics of local businesses and the art that enriches our everyday lives.

AUSTIN BREWER, PUBLISHER @BLUESPRINGSCITYLIFESTYLE

September 2024

PUBLISHER

Austin Brewer | austinbrewer@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Katarina Brewer | katarina.brewer@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Megan Smith, Katarina Brewer

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Megan Cason

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe

LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley

SEPTEMBER 2024

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: The Blue Springs Police Department and CJCFPD partner with Life Sports for a water day. 2: Enjoying some life music at Sinclair’s. 3: Neda and Justin love hosting Yoga + Wellness Retreats; creating unforgettable experiences for everyone involved. 4: The Shaun Ashley Team gifted MVP clients baskets with salsa, chips, and a $500 certificate. 5: Sacred Bliss + Soul Renewal Yoga Wellness Retreat with Trinity Wellness in Puerto Vallarta Mexico! 6: Plaza Heights Christian Academy welcomes new teachers for the 2024-2025 school year. 7: A beautiful arbor design by Fleming Floral.

Want to be seen in the magazine?

TRINITY WELLNESS

KATARINA BREWER

PLAZA HEIGHTS CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

SHAUN ASHLEY TEAM

MEGAN CASON

FLEMING FLORAL

TRINITY WELLNESS

Meyer knows Music education

FOR 58 YEARS, Meyer Music has worked to promote and support music education in Kansas City. We know that participating in band, orchestra and music programs develops successful students and builds strong communities. Whether your student is picking up an instrument for the first time, or further along on their musical journey, Meyer Music is with you to provide beginning to performance-level instruments and rental packages that meet or exceed your required supply list. We also offer exceptional private lessons that will help your student quickly advance their skills.

BAND INSTRUMENTS & SUPPLIES

business monthly

New Location for Elevation Fitness

Elevation Fitness has opened a new location! This state-of-the-art facility is crafted to elevate your fitness journey with advanced equipment, expert nutritional coaching, and a variety of personalized training programs tailored to meet the unique needs and goals of clients of all ages. Discover Elevation Fitness and step into the future of fitness!

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Floral Elegance at Your Fingertips with Fleming Floral Station Cart

Few things brighten a space like beautiful flowers. Choosing your grab-and-go bouquet is effortless at the Floral Cart at Fleming Floral Station. Stocked daily with an array of stunning blooms to suit every occasion. When the weather doesn’t cooperate the flowers are inside the charming shop. Payment is convenient with an on-site QR code or cash box.

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Daughter Follows in Family Footsteps as Rotary Club President

Former Blue Springs resident Pat Starke joined the Blue Springs Rotary Club in 1984. His daughter, Blue Springs law firm owner Vanessa Starke, joined in 2013. This June, both were installed as President of their respective Rotary Clubs: Pat of the Coronado, California Rotary Club, and Vanessa of the Blue Springs Rotary Club. Blue Springs Rotary Club meets on Wednesdays at noon at the Adam’s Pointe Golf Club. For more information, contact Vanessa at bluespringsrotary@gmail.com Scan to read more

Photography by Elevation Fitness

Photography by Fleming Floral

Fall Artistry Collection Released at Merle Norman

Our new Fall Color Collection, Artistry, is here with two new mascaras, three eyeliner shades, three eye shadow colors, and two dual-liner+color lip pencils. Plus, enjoy a Gift With Purchase: buy two or more Merle Norman products and receive a FREE travel-sized mascara, finishing spray, lip gloss, and blush. Most of the products are Limited Edition and only available until September 15th or while supplies last. Some conditions apply.

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Berry Group Construction Now Offering StruXure’s Pergola X

Berry Group Construction Company is excited to introduce its latest offering: StruXure’s Pergola X. This innovative pergola features advanced technology that allows you to adjust sunlight and weather exposure with ease—whether by opening, closing, pivoting, or sliding its panels. Its customizable design seamlessly integrates with a variety of architectural styles, making it a versatile addition to any space.

Introducing Megan Bohannon, New Business Affiliate at Trinity Wellness

Megan Bohannon, a professional photographer and macro nutrition coach, has recently joined Trinity Wellness. She will host her inaugural workshop alongside Neda Carnes, focusing on science-based nutrition, macronutrient tracking, and finishing 2024 strong. Attendees will gain confidence in their nutritional knowledge, develop new fall habits, and navigate the upcoming holiday season with ease. Don’t miss her first workshop on September 21st at Trinity Wellness!

Photography by Merle Norman Cosmetics

Photography by Trinity Wellness

Photography by Berry Group Construction Company

It is finally FALL, and our new color collection, Artistry, is HERE! Get expressive with your makeup this season using these gorgeous Limited Edition colors!

| 816-220-1248

Sinclair’s Restaurant: A Place to Gather

WHERE UPSCALE DINING

MEETS CLASSIC SPORTS BAR

ARTICLE BY MEG SMITH | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MEGAN CASON

Good people. Great food. Pair these with big screens to watch the hometown team win multiple championships and a comfortable, family-friendly atmosphere, and pretty soon, your establishment becomes one of the best local spots around.

Sinclair’s Restaurant

Owner Shane Miller had that in mind when he founded Sinclair’s Restaurant in 2014. A Blue Springs native, Miller worked at Harry Starkers on the Country Club Plaza before moving to Atlanta to work at the Bristol. Returning in 2009, he was working as a residential appraiser but couldn’t stop thinking about a delicious meal he’d eaten in Georgia. That particular bowl of tomato soup led him to consider opening a restaurant. And in 2014, that’s just what he did.

Miller picked Blue Springs as a location, not only because he grew up here but because the city is rapidly expanding. This community has one of the youngest suburban populations in the Kansas City metro, and many are starting their own families. With rolling hills, public parks, and cycling and hiking trails, it’s no wonder Blue Springs is growing so quickly. And it’s the perfect spot to open a restaurant.

For restaurant-goers who like to read reviews before trying a new spot, the phrases repeatedly mentioned throughout numerous five-star reviews show how great the atmosphere and staff are at Sinclair’s. The moment a guest steps through the door, the staff of Sinclair’s wants them to feel like they’re exactly where they’re supposed to be. Miller prides his restaurant on the friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere. The staff’s friendliness may have something to do with Miller’s trust in his employees. The restaurant

operates without a manager, leaving the staff to handle all the daily decisions and prioritize guest happiness.

Whether watching the game with your family or for those looking to cheer on their favorite local teams with friends, Sinclair’s is open for every single Kansas City Chiefs game, even on Christmas Day. On game days, fans can show their team pride by sipping on Gameday Kool-Aid, made with colorful vodka to make the drink red or blue, depending on whether it’s baseball or football season. But what else can you expect from a restaurant in the heart of Chiefs Kingdom?

While the restaurant is sports-centric, the food vastly differs from typical American bar food. Diners can expect to find an extensive, value-friendly kids’ menu that will satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. For the more adventurous eaters, Miller recommends Thai pizza with a peanut butter coconut spread and chicken, carrots, scallions, and mozzarella toppings. The pizza is then drizzled with a sweet and spicy sauce that wakes up taste buds.

For those who are gluten-free or have some intolerances, that is no problem when it comes to dining at Sinclair’s. Pizza crusts, chicken sandwiches, burgers, and more are available as gluten-free. The extensive gluten-free menu, while atypical of sports bars, has received rave customer reviews.

At Sinclair’s, guests can keep track of the days of the week by enjoying a daily lunch special. Think chicken alfredo on Mondays and tacos on Tuesdays. Look for the fried shrimp special, the restaurant’s top seller. Diners can show up for the lunch specials and stay for happy hour, which runs from 3:00-7:00 p.m. daily. Find specials on drinks and some tasty bites like spicy green beans and Sinclair’s Swedish meatballs. Don’t forget the Sinclairita, their take on a margarita made with a house-made sweet and sour mix.

The goal in opening Sinclair’s Restaurant was to be the place in town where people gathered for celebrations. Whether it is celebrating the final score of a game,

“Our loyal locals keep Sinclair’s Restaurant going. As a privately owned business, we rely on their continued support,” Miller says.

Shane Miller states, “We love our loyal fellow Kansas City Chiefs fans, so we are open for every game of the season, even on Christmas Day. That’s why we are rated as one of the premier locations in the metro for watching sports.”

meeting friends for lunch, or one of life’s more significant events, this is the place to make those memories. Over the years, the space has held numerous wedding showers, rehearsal dinners, baby showers, and birthdays. Guests can book the private dining area for upcoming special events and work with the staff to customize a special menu. The staff is committed to making celebrations memorable with personalized menus and multiple bar options.

And what about the name? Miller borrowed the name “Sinclair” from one of his best friends’ children, Ashley. He hopes that the name will convey a feeling of family and friendliness to every guest who walks through the door.

Blue Springs is lucky to have such a unique, locally owned spot with friendly staff who want to make guests feel celebrated. Miller hopes that the restaurant’s reputation will continue to draw in new crowds and keep the place packed full of regulars.

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• Comfort: Smooth, customfit trays reduce irritation and discomfort.

• Convenience: Removable aligners make eating, brushing, and flossing a breeze.

• Aesthetics: Virtually invisible, letting you straighten your teeth discreetly.

• Effectiveness: Achieve your dream smile with advanced technology and precise adjustments.

COLOR YOUR CONFIDENCE

Transform Your Look with Color Draping at Color Confident Boutique

ARTICLE BY KATARINA BREWER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY COREY BROWN

Picture this: a boutique where every garment complements your unique coloring, ensuring you look and feel your absolute best. That’s what EQUIPPED: Color Confident Boutique is all about. This boutique is not just a store; it’s a place dedicated to building confidence and helping you shine in your best colors!

Founded in 2019 by Mary Mitchell, Sharon Board, and Carly Mitchell, the boutique was born from their frequent conversations with women who wanted to shop within their ideal color palette but needed experts to determine their seasonal colors. By 2021, the boutique had moved to its first brickand-mortar location. Today, the expanded space allows them to offer services to women across the country, blending boutique shopping with personalized styling.

“Our concept was simple yet impactful, create a space where every garment is handpicked to complement your unique coloring. This way, you can confidently look and feel your best, without the stress of second-guessing whether a color is right for you,” Mary Mitchell explained.

The boutique’s chic 4-season palette system simplifies the process of finding the perfect colors, eliminating the guesswork and offering an enjoyable shopping experience. Women who have undergone Color Analysis can shop confidently, knowing every piece aligns with their ideal color palette.

“We provide a range of services including Color Analysis, Body Type Analysis, and Personal Style Development. These lay a great foundation for building a wardrobe and image you love,” Carly shared. The boutique also offers closet edits, everyday makeup lessons, personalized skincare advice, and group classes.

Sharon Board passionately added, “We want you to leave our boutique feeling like a new woman—confident, stylish, and ready for what’s next. If shopping has ever felt overwhelming, we’re here to change that. Our goal is to boost your confidence so you can face any situation feeling fabulous.”

Color Confident Boutique is more than a store; it’s a transformative experience. Discover your perfect shades and step into this vibrant haven where confidence becomes your new norm.

hacks HAIR

Braids are a great way to add style and uniqueness to your hair style rotation and have been a staple in hair styles dating back to the 3500 B. C. This historical hairstyle is here to stay, so we wanted to share some go-to impressive looks. Follow our stepby-step guide of braids for all of your braid needs.

Braids to Keep You Chic All Year Long

ARTICLE BY ABBI SULASKI

PHOTOGRAPHY BY POPPY & CO. BY

KELSEY HUFFER

simpleupdo

Part the hair down the center or side part, if preferred. Create braid(s) on the side of the head and secure with elastic. Twist the hair with braids into a simple bun, securing it with hair pins. Add an accessory for a classy touch.

Place a bandana on the forehead and tie it in the back. Create as many braids as desired in the back of the head, teasing the ends to avoid using elastics.

bandana braids

pull through braid with space buns

Part hair down the center. Create pull-through braids on each side of the head. Tie elastic at the end of the braids to create a ponytail at the nape of the neck. For extra volume in the buns, tease the hair in the ponytail before twisting it into a bun. Secure with hair pins and... Voilà!

Part the top half of the hair in two sections. Create fishtail braids (or braids of choice) and tie them together in the back of the hair. Add a fashion accessory around a ponytail for a little extra fun!

fishtail braids reverse

ARTICLE BY KATARINA BREWER

real estate market NAVIGATING THE

ESSENTIAL TIPS FROM SHAUN ASHLEY FOR BUYING & SELLING YOUR HOME

The real estate market is always evolving, and it’s critical to ask the right questions to ensure you’re picking a partner you can trust. As the housing market begins to gain momentum, local RE/MAX Heritage realtor Shaun Ashley offers valuable insights for both buyers and sellers. With over 15 years of experience and a team of more than 10 dedicated agents, the Shaun Ashley Team is well-equipped to guide you through your real estate journey.

“An agent can help you navigate the tricky waters of paperwork, negotiations, and finding the perfect home or buyer for you. Why go it alone? Find an agent that makes the journey enjoyable and stress-free.”

What questions should I ask my real estate agent?

• “How familiar are you with Blue Springs and Grain Valley market trends?”

• “What strategies will you use to find my dream home or sell my property?”

• “Can you explain the current market trends in our area?”

• “How do you handle tricky negotiations?”

• “What makes you stand out from other agents in Blue Springs/Grain Valley?”

What advice do you have for sellers looking to list their property in this market?

• Stage to impress: Make your home look like it stepped out of a magazine.

• Price it right: Determine a price that resonates well with buyers in Blue Springs and Grain Valley.

• Market like a pro: Ensure your home gets the visibility it deserves among a wide audience.

• Be flexible with showings: The more eyes on your home, the better.

• Trust the process: We’re here to guide you every step of the way.

What advice do you have for buyers looking to purchase a property in this market?

• Get pre-approved for a mortgage BEFORE looking at homes: It shows sellers you’re serious about buying.

• Act fast: Great homes in Blue Springs and Grain Valley go quickly, so be prepared to make an offer.

• Know your priorities: What’s a must-have versus a nice-to-have feature for you and your family?

• Stay positive: Your dream home is out there, and we’ll find it together.

Do I really need a real estate agent?

Absolutely! An agent can help you navigate the tricky waters of paperwork, negotiations, and finding the perfect home or buyer for you. Why go at it alone? Find an agent that makes the journey enjoyable and stress-free.

INTERIOR STYLING

ARTICLE BY LEANN PARKER

Have you ever pieced together an outfit for a special event or placed a collection of items on a shelf and then stood back and found that the pieces you pulled together totally worked or completely did not work? I used to think that I either needed a whole lot of talent or a bit of luck when it came to styling something beautifully. Turns out, there is no talent or luck about it at all. It all starts with a math formula. This formula is known as The Golden Ratio of 1.618. Discovered in the ancient world by mathematicians, this pattern can be found all over in the world of nature. This ratio creates patterns that can be found on the spines of a pinecone, seeds on a sunflower head, spirals on seashells, even the human form, to name only a few. And our eyes love to see it. Why our eyes like this particular pattern may remain a mystery but how to achieve it is no mystery at all. Fashion designers, interior designers, architects, photographers and artists have all been using this formula for centuries in order to achieve visually appealing compositions. And so can you!

LET’S MAKE A VIGNETTE!

In interior styling, a vignette is a small, curated collection of objects grouped together to create a smaller picture within a larger space in a room. Chances are, at some point you’ve put together a vignette without knowing it was one. What makes the difference between a purposefully styled vignette and a cluttered collection is all in the composition. The composition is most appealing when this amazing Golden Ratio is applied.

To get started on styling a vignette, first decide on the space you’ll place it. It could be an empty shelf, bedside table, or coffee table. Next, collect a few of your very favorite things that could be styled there. These objects could be a few books, a vase with flowers, a candle, a small clock, a plant, a few apples, the list is endless. Now that you have your space and objects to style, it’s time to assemble your vignette.

GET IN LINE!

Where To Place Objects

In grid form, the Golden Ratio shows designers exactly where to place the most important objects in the composition for the greatest visual appeal. Known as Phi, this grid splits the space that you’re working with into thirds vertically and horizontally. Place the most important objects on the correlation grid lines. Even better, place on the points where the lines intersect. This will be more appealing to the eye than if the important objects are in the center of the frame or far to the sides.

FOLLOW THE FLOWERS

How

many objects to use

In number form, the Golden Ratio helps us to know how many items to use when styling a vignette. This form is known as the Fibonacci Sequence (0, 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21, 34, etc.). The sequence grows as it adds together the prior two numbers to get a new number (for example, 3+5=8 and 5+8=13, etc) and repeats. Amazingly, all the numbers that you achieve by doing this are the exact same numbers of petals that are found on flowers. How amazing is that! To apply to styling a vignette, choose a number in the Fibonacci Sequence for the number of items you will use to style. Typically 3 or 5 objects work great for small vignettes.

STEP DOWN OR TRIANGLE

What

shape to create

The eye loves to see odd numbers. Odd numbers stop our brain from categorizing items into pairs which are less visually interesting. When styling a vignette, build a triangle shape of 3 points with the objects you are styling. To achieve this, vary the heights of objects to make a stepping down effect. If your items are of similar height then use books or a small object to lift one higher so that it appears taller than the others. To start, place the tallest piece in the back, medium piece in front and slightly to the side of the tall piece, then the smallest piece in front to create a stepping down effect. The Golden Triangle has angles of 72 and 36 degrees but any triangle here will do!

I hope you have fun creating your vignette and share them with me over on IG @SilvertoothHome . You can also visit me at my website SilvertoothHome.com . I’m excited for you to check it out and learn more with me there!

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

FRIDAYS, SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYS IN SEPTEMBER

The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art Mini-Golf Course

Nelson-Atkins Museum

Enjoy a round of mini golf at the Nelson-Atkins Museum on a nine-hole course crafted by artists. Each hole features a unique interpretation inspired by the museum’s collection. Tickets are $18 for adults, $12 for children ages 4-12, and free for children under 3. For more information and to book your tee time visit www.nelson-atkins.org/art-course

SEPTEMBER 17TH – 21ST

Disney’s Peter Pan

Starlight | 8:00 PM

Enjoy an evening performance at Starlight Theatre featuring the beloved Disney classic, Peter Pan. With a sprinkle of pixie dust, join Peter Pan and Tinker Bell as they whisk you away on an unforgettable magical journey. To purchase tickets and browse other upcoming shows visit www.tickets.kcstarlight.com

SEPTEMBER 20TH – 22ND

Plaza Art Fair

Country Club Plaza | 5:00 PM

The Plaza Art Fair, celebrated as one of the nation’s premier art events, is making a grand return! This vibrant festival stretches across nine city blocks and features the work of 240 talented artists. With over 20 food booths and three stages offering live music performances, this weekend promises to be an inspiring and exhilarating experience for all. For more information visit www.plazaartfair.com/

SEPTEMBER 20TH – 22ND

Blue Springs Fall Fun Festival

Downtown Blue Springs

Embark on a magical journey and join us at The Blue Springs Fall Fun Fest! Enjoy a vibrant parade, handmade crafters and vendors, carnival rides, live music, and festival food. Admission is free and is sure to be filled with adventure. Visit www.bluespringsfallfestival.com for a schedule of the enchanting activities and details.

SEPTEMBER 20TH – OCTOBER 31ST

Fall Fun Awaits at Johnson Farms

Johnson Farms | 9:00 AM

Starting mid-September, pick pumpkins, squash, and various vegetables. Enjoy the U-Cut sunflowers and fall flower fields for photos and bouquets until the weather permits. Apple picking will also be available, featuring Honey Crisp, Gala, and Fuji apples from the 5,000-tree orchard. Crop availability may vary with the weather. For updates and tickets, visit www.johnsonfarms.net and their social media pages.

SEPTEMBER 28TH

Kennedy’s Jewelers Bridal Event

Kennedy’s Jewelers | 10:00 AM

Schedule a visit to Kennedy’s Jewelers for their highly anticipated one-day Bridal Event. You will have an opportunity to explore an expanded selection of wedding bands and engage with local experts for personalized advice. Plus, receive a complimentary gift with your appointment—no purchase necessary. It’s an event you won’t want to miss!

Want to be featured?

ARTICLE BY BAILEY MORRIS

Lavender Vanilla Sugar Scrub

This homemade sugar scrub is easy to make and leaves you with silky soft skin

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 cup of granulated sugar

• ½ cup of oil (almond oil or olive oil works best)

• ½ teaspoon vitamin E oil

• ½ teaspoon real vanilla extract

• 15 drops lavender essential oil

DIRECTIONS:

Sugar scrubs are amazing for getting rid of dead skin and exfoliating to reveal soft skin.

To make this Lavender Vanilla Sugar Scrub, mix all ingredients together and store in an airtight jar.

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.