Blue Springs, MO September 2025 by City Lifestyle

THE STYLE ISSUE

Style in Every Detail

When we think of style, our minds often go straight to clothing. But style is so much more—it’s the way we bring beauty, personality, and creativity into every part of our lives. It shows up in the way we design our homes, the music that moves us, the books we choose, and even how we carry ourselves in conversation. With September’s gentle shift toward autumn, it feels like the perfect time to see style in unexpected places.

In this Style Issue , you’ll be introduced to the husband-and-wife team behind a local cosmetic store that inspires confidence and self-expression through color and creativity. You’ll also discover a florist whose breathtaking wedding arrangements turn special days into unforgettable works of art. Plus, get expert tips from a local catering business on turning everyday dishes into extraordinary culinary creations, ideal for entertaining. Finally, meet a couple whose woodworking brings warmth, timeless craftsmanship, and natural beauty into the home.

Style isn’t just about trends—it’s about what feels like you and how you choose to express yourself. I hope the stories in these pages inspire you to find beauty in your own way, this season and beyond.

KATARINA BREWER, EDITOR @BLUESPRINGSCITYLIFESTYLE

September 2025

PUBLISHER

Austin Brewer | austinbrewer@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Katarina Brewer | katarina.brewer@citylifestyle.com

COPY EDITOR

Heather Davis | lovekpie@sbcglobal.net

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Breanna Hicks, Katarina Brewer

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Krier Photo, Kiera Meloy Photo, Thin Threads Photography, The Grotheer’s, KayWeb Photography, Streicher’s Wildflower Photography, Bailey Pianalto Photography

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

inside the issue

Where Beauty Meets Heart

Design in Full Bloom

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN SEPTEMBER

1: Rotary members support the You Matter Lunch Program, delivering summer meals to local children. 2: Kelly Admire & Neda Carnes at the Empower Women Wellness Event in Kansas City. 3: iMove PT KC recently participated in compiling heat survival bags for Shelter KC. 4: The Brown Team proudly gives back to the Veteran’s Community Project. 5: Community members gathered to welcome The Wall That Heals. 6: Celebrating one year of strength, community, and growth at Elevation Fitness! 7: Plaza Heights Christian Academy faculty and staff gearing up for a great 2025–2026 school year.

Want to be seen in the magazine?

THE BROWN TEAM

MEYERS FUNERAL CHAPEL

KATARINA

2,218

business monthly

A ROUNDUP OF

Fresh Favorites from Essential Eats Grazing, Now at The Vintage Bee

Essential Eats Grazing, LLC is celebrating its anniversary by opening a second location within Queen Bee Boutiques—The Vintage Bee! They will have a fridge stocked with their signature sandwiches, seasonal soups and salads, individual charcuterie boxes, and elevation power bowls from their meal prep menu. Whether you’re shopping or just passing through, swing by The Vintage Bee to grab a quick, healthy bite—perfect for lunch breaks or on-the-go snacking.

Scan to read more

Supporting Tomorrow’s Teachers, One Swing at a Time

Meyers Funeral Chapel proudly served as the Registration Sponsor for the Blue Springs Education Foundation’s Grow Your Own Teacher Golf Tournament. Held at Stone Canyon Golf Club, the event raised funds to support local students pursuing careers in education. Meyers Funeral Chapel was honored to support this meaningful event that helps students grow into teachers who return to our local schools and positively impact the community.

Three Years of Care That Comes to You

iMove PT Kansas City celebrates three years of delivering expert, mobile physical therapy across the metro. By bringing care directly to homes, workplaces, and community spaces, they remove barriers like transportation and wait times. Specializing in helping older adults stay safe and independent, iMove PT has earned trust through compassionate service. As they enter year four, their commitment remains the same: to expand access and promote their core belief—better movement leads to better living.

Photography by Essential Eats Grazing

Photography by Meyers Funeral Chapel

Photography by iMove PT - KC

Flexible Financing for Your Pet’s Needs

Dog Training Elite is proud to offer financing options through All Pet Credit Card, designed specifically for pet-related expenses, such as dog training, veterinary care, grooming, and more. All Pet cards often include special financing options, such as 0% interest for a set period (e.g., 6 or 12 months), making it easier to budget for high-quality training without paying everything upfront. To learn more, contact Dog Training Elite-Kansas City or apply online at www.allpet.com.

Art, Music, and Community: Coming Together to Support Music Education

Band of Angels’ annual “Art that Blows” event raised a record-breaking $150,000. The sold-out evening featured student performances and unique art made from retired instruments. Proceeds will fund music education by providing instruments to students in need. Since its founding, Band of Angels has donated over 3,000 instruments to students across more than 60 school districts. To support or learn more, visit www.bandofangels.org

Focused Fitness. Lasting Impact.

Elevation Fitness is a private personal training studio in Blue Springs, located off 7 Highway near Fun House Pizza. The studio offers personalized one-onone and semi-private training in a supportive, results-driven environment. Its nutrition program provides the education and accountability clients need to build lasting habits. Having just celebrated one year in its brickand-mortar location, Elevation Fitness is just getting started. To take the first step toward better health, book a free discovery call today.

Photography by Elevation Fitness

Photography by Krier Photo

Photography by Katarina Brewer

Capturing Love and Timeless Memories with Focus + Films

Focus + Films continues to impress couples with beautifully crafted wedding films. One recent couple shared, “We loved working with Focus + Films for our wedding video! Rachel and Dion did a fantastic job capturing every little detail. They produced a video that is elegant, and we will cherish it for years to come!” With an artistic touch an eye for detail, Focus + Films helps couples relive their wedding day for years to come.

Photography by Focus + Films

Sinclair’s: 11 Years of Food, Friends & Community

For 11 years, owner Shane Miller has proudly created a welcoming space where community thrives. From birthdays and watch parties to casual dinners with friends, Sinclair’s is where memories are made. With great food, friendly service, live music, and trivia nights, Sinclair’s Restaurant remains a local favorite. The private dining room has hosted everything from baby showers to intimate weddings. Here’s to A Place to Gather—for the past 11 years and many more to come. Cheers!

Photography by Sinclair’s Restaurant

FROM MILITARY SERVICE TO EMPOWERMENT THROUGH CARE AND CONFIDENCE

Where Beauty Meets Heart

ARTICLE BY KATARINA BREWER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KRIER PHOTO

Merle Norman Cosmetics is a name with deep roots in the beauty world. Founded by Merle herself during the Great Depression, the brand has been trusted for generations. Still family-owned and proudly made in the USA, Merle Norman offers high-quality skincare and cosmetics backed by nearly a century of innovation.

But for Briana Lutes, what truly sets Merle Norman apart is the care. After struggling for years with sensitive skin and countless failed attempts at relief, she found not only products that worked, but a compassionate consultant who listened and tailored a solution just for her. That same spirit now defines every interaction at the Blue Springs studio that Briana and her husband, Jason, proudly own.

“After completing my full-time military service, I was trying to figure out my next steps,” Briana shared. “I had stopped in to pick up my usual makeup order and left with a lot more than expected.”

During her visit, Briana learned that the longtime owners—two sisters with decades of experience—were looking for part-time help. She stepped in temporarily, but quickly fell in love with the work, the creativity, the connections, and the confidence the products gave others.

When the opportunity to buy the store came along, Briana and Jason didn’t hesitate—they knew it was the right path.

“We were meant to be a part of continuing the legacy of this place that’s helped people feel beautiful and supported for generations,” Briana says.

Owning the studio has allowed the couple to pour their hearts into something meaningful. From day one, they’ve been intentional about preserving the welcoming atmosphere that first drew Briana in, while also finding new ways to elevate the client experience.

“We value kindness, trust, and personalization,” explained Briana. “Whether someone’s here for makeup, skincare, or a wig consultation, we want them to feel seen, supported, and never rushed or pressured. Our goal is to create a warm space where beauty feels approachable and empowering.”

The studio carries a wide range of products to meet every age, lifestyle, and beauty preference—whether you’re going for bold and glamorous or minimal and natural.

“We sometimes hear, ‘Isn’t Merle Norman just for old ladies?’ or ‘That’s my grandmother’s makeup,’” Briana says. “But the truth is, Merle Norman serves all generations—we have families with three generations of women using our products.”

From acne care to anti-aging, Merle Norman’s skincare lines meet the needs of every stage of life. Clean, modern formulas have been designed for a variety of skin types and concerns. Products include face washes, toners, moisturizers, masks, and more. Men are covered as well, with Merle Norman’s versatile options, including the Duke Cannon line—created by and for military veterans.

Whether you’re going for a natural glow, a bold statement, or something in between, Merle Norman’s makeup line is designed to meet you where you are. Each client receives a personalized consultation, where experts help match shades and products that complement your skin tone, lifestyle, and occasion. From foundations and eyeshadows to lip colors, liners, and trending favorites like colored mascaras, the team makes it easy—and fun— to find your perfect look.

Consultations are always free and start with an open conversation about your concerns, preferences, and beauty goals. From there, hands-on demos,

CONTINUED >

personalized color matching, and the beloved ‘try before you buy ’ approach help clients feel confident in their choices. With ongoing training and product expertise, the Merle Norman Blue Springs team offers a thoughtful, no-pressure experience—whether you’re stopping by for an express facial, skin consultation, or a full makeover.

Beyond cosmetics, the studio is also a trusted local destination for wigs. They carry respected brands like Raquel Welch, Eva Gabor, Hairdo, and Milano, and offer a private, supportive consultations for those navigating hair loss or seeking a new style. From full wigs to toppers and extensions, the focus is always on helping customers feel like their most confident selves.

Briana and Jason’s vision for the studio includes growing services to offer a lash and brow specialist, ear piercing, bonded hair systems, and eventually, a full-service salon. They’ve also recently welcomed the Michael Malul fragrance line of affordable, luxurious scents made in the U.S.

“The real reward is seeing someone light up—whether through skincare, wigs, or a simple lipstick. Moments of confidence and comfort matter most.”

Despite the modern updates, one thing remains the same: their belief that beauty is personal. “It’s not one-size-fits-all,” Briana shares. “It’s about feeling like the best version of you confident, comfortable, and authentic. Our goal is to enhance what’s already there, not cover it up.”

At Merle Norman Blue Springs, it’s never just about the products. It’s about the experience, the people, and the transformation that happens when someone walks out the door feeling more themselves than ever before.

Visit Merle Norman - Blue Springs

627-C NW Mock Ave

(816) 220-1248

DESIGN IN

full bloom

ARTICLE BY KATARINA BREWER | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

With a passion for detail and design, Amie Fleming—the owner of Fleming Floral Station—brings a thoughtful, artistic approach to every arrangement. Her florals are expressive and elegant, capturing both emotion and atmosphere.

“I love the way flowers make you feel,” Amie shares. “They capture a memory in sight and smell.” That emotional connection fuels her passion for creating pieces that are not only beautiful but deeply personal.

While she creates arrangements for many occasions— memorials, celebrations, corporate events, and seasonal gatherings—weddings remain at the heart of her work. From soft pastels to bold palettes, Amie collaborates closely with each couple to bring their vision to life through intentional floral design.

Creating meaningful designs for life’s most special moments

Photo credit: KayWeb Photography

Photo credit: The Grotheer’s

Photo credit: Thin Threads Photography

“Who doesn’t love a wedding?” Amie says. “It’s an honor to be part of a day filled with love—a day they’ll remember forever.”

NOT ONE-SIZE-FITS-ALL

Amie believes every wedding should reflect the couple’s unique personality and style. “I don’t do cookie-cutter weddings,” she says. “Each wedding has its own personality—just like the couple.”

Her process begins with listening closely to each couple’s vision, drawing out the small details that shape their celebration. “After the initial meeting, I bring creative suggestions to the floral proposal, sharing ideas the couple may not have considered,” Amie explained.

The result reflects personal, intentional florals that tell each couple’s story. From timeless bouquets to elaborate installations, her designs elevate every event through color, shape, and mood.

TRENDS & THEMES

Amie blends timeless elegance with trend-forward flair. Recently, bold, vibrant palettes—especially hot pinks and oranges—have surged in popularity. “Bright and bold is really in right now,” she says. “Big, wispy bridal bouquets and bridesmaids’ bouquets using one flower type are popular too.”

Nature-inspired wildflower themes in whites, yellows, and purples evoke a freshly picked-from-a-field look. “There are also lots of all-white weddings this year,” Amie adds. “Baby’s breath and white roses, or greenery with various white blooms—it’s soft and classic.”

SEASONAL FAVORITES

When it comes to her personal favorites, fall weddings take the lead. “Rich earth tones give comfort and warmth,” Amie shares. “Rusts, taupes, and browns paired with moody jewel tones bring dreamy fall weddings to life.”

She also enjoys mixing bold colors with bridal whites to balance playful and classic. For modern minimalists, Amie loves creating sleek arrangements using just one type of flower. “Simple one-flower designs create understated beauty for a modern dream,” she says.

Designing for a romantic garden wedding or a moody autumn celebration, Amie sees florals as more than decoration—they’re an essential part of each couple’s story. At Fleming Floral Station, every bloom is chosen with care, every arrangement crafted with intention, and every event transformed through thoughtful, personalized floral design.

FLEMING FLORAL STATION

From weddings and special dances to corporate events and memorials, Fleming Floral Station customizes every arrangement with care and intention, bringing your vision to life.

801 Cedar Street Pleasant Hill, MO 64080 816-935-8453 flemingfloralstation@gmail.com

Photo credit: Streicher’s Wildflower Photography

Photo credit: Bailey Pianalto Photography

One on One Treatment

Tommy Frevert DPT,

styled to serve

Where fashion meets flavor and presentation is everything

When it comes to fashion and design, style isn’t limited to your outfit—it continues to the table. Just ask Kayley and Tyler Adams, the creative husband-and-wife duo behind Essential Eats Grazing LLC, a local catering company that turns food into an art form. Known for their beautifully styled grazing tables and thoughtful presentation, they bring elevated design and bold flavor to every event they cater, from weddings and family gatherings to business meetings and celebrations.

“Good taste isn’t just about what’s on your plate—it’s about how you serve it,” Kayley shared. “We want every element to feel intentional, beautiful, and bring people together.”

Ready to impress your guests? Kayley and Tyler share their favorite styling tips for adding effortless elegance and wow-worthy design to your appetizers and grazing boards. Here are some simple ways you can apply their styling secrets at home.

DESIGNING THE DISH

Adding a pop of green—like parsley, microgreens, or edible petals—instantly brings color and elegance to any dish. “Every plate needs a splash of green,” Kayley shares. She recommends creating visual depth by stacking or leaning ingredients at angles, which adds dimension, instead of laying them flat. Choosing white or neutral plates lets the colors shine, and don’t forget

ARTICLE BY KATARINA BREWER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KRIER PHOTO

the oils and sauces—a swoosh or zig-zag drizzle instantly elevates any dish. Lastly, keep plates tidy with clean edges and intentional arrangements for a polished look.

FASHION MEETS FOOD

“Just like wardrobes shift with the seasons, so can your food,” Kayley notes. “In the fall, think warm earthy tones, and in the spring, soft pastels will brighten the spread.” Kayley draws inspiration from trending color palettes, using ingredients like beet hummus, turmeric yogurt, or purple cauliflower to create a bold, cohesive look. “We like to mix textures—creamy dips with crunchy crudités or velvety spreads with crisp crackers—to create visual and flavorful contrast,” she added. You can also draw inspiration from fashion and interior design trends by incorporating minimalist styling, earthy neutrals, and thoughtful touches, such as matching linens and curated props.

THE ART OF THE GRAZE

Creating a grazing table that’s both functional and stunning takes planning and artistic flair. “I start with anchors like cheese wheels, large fruits, or bowls of dip for a clear focal point,” Kayley explains. Build outward in odd-numbered groups—threes or fives—to create a natural flow. Vary colors and heights of ingredients using risers or stacked boards to add dimension. Include pre-sliced cheeses and meats for effortless serving. Finally, fill gaps with fresh herbs, dried fruits, or nuts to create a lush, abundant feel.

ELEMENTS THAT IMPRESS

Everyday ingredients can become beautiful design elements with a little creativity. “It doesn’t have to be fancy to feel special,” Kayley says. Citrus slices—such as lemon or blood orange—add brightness, while radishes and carrots bring rustic charm paired with dips. “Mini jars of jam or jelly with little spoons are such an easy upgrade,” she adds. Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can be tucked around dishes to add aroma and a seasonal flair, while rolling or fanning bread and crackers creates a thoughtful, inviting presentation.

At Essential Eats, it’s not just about feeding a crowd—it’s about creating a moment. Kayley and Tyler’s signature style shows how a few thoughtful touches and a little creativity can make food both delicious and designer-worthy. When presentation meets flavor, it brings people together in unforgettable ways. For more inspiration—or to bring their signature style to your next event—Kayley and Tyler at Essential Eats Grazing are ready to collaborate and customize a spread that suits your vision.

Austin turned a magazine into community.

City Lifestyle isn’t just a publication — it’s a pulse. A rhythm of voices, neighbors, and stories woven together by someone who believes in the power of connection. As we expand, we’re looking for people ready to turn care into community. Are you ready to be that spark?

Blue Springs City Lifestyle

Published by Austin

Loved by Blue Springs

Living a Legacy

Building on a family tradition one project at a time

When Jeremy, a Firefighter/Paramedic, and Breanna, a Crime Thriller Author, began dating in 2021, they quickly discovered they shared more than just a spark. They both had a passion for woodworking, leather design, and refurbishing. They started by building birdhouses for their family, and before they knew it, J+B Wood Work and Designs was born.

While they still love to go back to where it all began-creating owl boxes, butterfly houses, and birdhouses for all types of birds-Jeremy and Breanna have expanded into larger, customized projects such as handcrafted American Flags, Aggravation game boards, signs, corn hole boards, and so much more.

ARTICLE BY BREANNA HICKS |

PHOTOGRAPHY

PROVIDED, KIERA

MELOY PHOTO

Top: Jeremy and Breanna Hicks

Mid: Custom signs for any occasion

Bottom: Aggravation game boards-designed to bring families together

“Each piece we craft is rooted in passion, built with honor, and grounded in a legacy of faith, family, and hard work.”

Is there anything they can’t do? “We’ll let you know when we get there.” Jeremy laughs. They strive to be your go-to carpenters for whatever your needs may be and that starts with not setting limitations. “I like the challenge like a puzzle-figuring out how to create something new. We’ll try anything once.”

Their most popular item, handcrafted American Flags, began when a customer reached out asking for a Challenge Coin Display for her Law Enforcement husband. Although Jeremy has made flags in the past, this request took them to a new level and they have continued to expand their options. “We can design almost any customization.” Their American flags can include shelves with recessed lighting for First Responders’ challenge coin collections, carvings to represent branches of the military, as well as thin line colors for First Responders, Military, and even cancer awareness.

When asked why they do it, Jeremy says:

“It’s something I grew up watching my grandfather do. I was incredibly impressed by how he was able to take a concept and build something from nothing. I dreamed that one day I could be like him. I also think it’s something good to do; it takes me out of the realm of being a firefighter for a change.”

“It’s been wild sharing our passion with others,” says Breanna when asked about her favorite part of starting J+B Wood Work and Designs. “What simply started as a hobby is now a business being shared with people all over the country.”

Whether you know exactly what you want or just have an idea in mind, Jeremy and Breanna can bring it to life.

“Each piece we craft is rooted in passion, built with honor, and grounded in a legacy of faith, family, and hard work.”

J+B WOOD WORK AND DESIGNS

Looking for a one-of-a-kind piece for your home or a meaningful custom gift? Follow J+B Wood Work and Designs on Facebook @J+BWoodWorkandDesigns to see their latest creations, or text 816-287-2987 to start your custom order today.

Each piece is handcrafted with passion

Customized American Flags. Built to honor and built to last.

Dan & Jodie Orel

SEPTEMBER 2025

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

SEPTEMBER 1ST – 30TH

CatWalk Glam Photo Booth

Merle Norman Cosmetics - Blue Springs | 10:00 AM

Stop by Merle Norman–Blue Springs this September to strike a pose at the leopard-themed CatWalk Photo Booth. Anyone who snaps an instore photo will be entered to win a FREE Merle Norman product. Red carpet and fun photo ops await! Winner announced September 30.

SEPTEMBER 19TH – 21ST

Fall Fun Fest

Downtown Blue Springs

The 56th Annual Fall Fun Festival returns with an exciting “Around the World” theme! Explore over 200 vendor booths, live music, tasty food, carnival rides, a classic car show, the crowd-favorite parade, and lively spots like the Beer Garden and Dog Garden. This community tradition offers something for everyone. Find the full schedule and event details at bluespringsfallfestival.com

SEPTEMBER 19TH – 21ST

The Plaza Art Fair

Country Club Plaza

Celebrating its 94th year as a top-ranked national art event, the Plaza Art Fair returns for a vibrant weekend of art, music, and food. Spanning nine blocks on the Country Club Plaza, it’s Kansas City’s unofficial welcome to fall, bringing the community together through creativity, culture, and connection. Learn more at plazaartfair.com

SEPTEMBER 20TH

Uncorked: KC Wine Festival

Union Station | 6:00 PM

Uncorked: KC returns to Union Station + Science City. Sip over 100 wines and bubblies from across the globe while enjoying live music, food trucks, and photo ops. General admission tickets are $65. VIP tickets are also available and include exclusive pours and access to interactive exhibits inside Science City. Learn more at uncorkedwinefestivals.com.

SEPTEMBER 27TH

Autumn Spa + Yoga + Wellness : 1-Day Retreat

Trinity Wellness Yoga + Fitness Studio | 8:30 AM

Celebrate the season of change with a full day of strength, mindful movement, nourishing eats, restorative yoga, and spa bliss. Through gratitude, connection, and self-care, you’ll relax, reflect, and reset. Open to all levels. Let go, restore, and embrace new beginnings. To learn more and reserve your spot, visit trinitywellnesskc.com/monthly-classes-events.html.

SEPTEMBER 27TH

Kennedy’s Jewelers Bridal Event

Kennedy’s Custom Jewelers | 10:00 AM

Are you newly engaged? Kennedy’s Jewelers is hosting their exclusive one-day Bridal Event—designed to make wedding jewelry shopping a memorable experience. Explore a stunning selection of engagement rings and bands, get expert guidance from the Kennedys’ team, and enjoy a complimentary gift just for booking an appointment. Plus, don’t miss your chance to win the grand prize!

Want to be featured?

Meyer knows Music education

FOR 59 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.