Canton, OH May 2026

The Ladies Issue

M AY 2 02 6

Let us help you make a POWERFUL DESIGN statement with these fabulous

JOHN RICHARDS accessories or shop other EXQUISITE BRANDS. Josette Kark Owner

(330) 956-4001 JosetteKarkDesign.com 5158 Whipple Ave NW

Store Hours: Tuesday - Friday 9am - 5pm Saturday 9am - 3pm

CENTRAL CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL A TRADITION OF EXCELLENCE SINCE 1905

17:1 Small Class Sizes 100% Graduation Rates 99% Student Involvement 85% of Students Play a Sport 100% Participation in Service Test Scores Above State & County Averages

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2026

MAY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ CA N TO N O H

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

The Ladies Issue

May 2026 PUBLISHER

There’s something truly special about taking a moment to recognize the women in our lives who make the world more vibrant and beautiful.

Whether it's our mothers, daughters, friends, or colleagues, these women are often the silent forces that shape our days and make life richer.

With Mother’s Day this month, our thoughts naturally turn to all those incredible women—biological mothers and mother figures alike—who have made an unforgettable impact on us. It’s the teachers, the friends, the neighbors, and the family members who offer their love, wisdom, and support in countless ways.

My mom has shaped not only who I am, but also who my daughters are becoming in ways I’ll forever be grateful for.

This month, as we celebrate these remarkable women, I also want to encourage you to support local businesses owned by women in our community. One of my favorite parts of this job is connecting with and championing the incredible women here in Canton. From movers and shakers to makers and builders, these women bring so much to the table, both seen and unseen. Their contributions, often behind the scenes, create beauty and impact that cannot be replicated.

Take a moment this month to recognize the women in your life. Send a text, make a phone call, or arrange a video call with the women who have made a difference for you. It’s a simple but powerful way to brighten someone’s day and remind them how much they’re loved.

Here’s to celebrating the women who make life so much more meaningful.

Happy Mother’s Day and cheers to the ladies who inspire us every day!

DA N I E L L E B U R K E , P U B L I S H E R @CANTONLIFESTYLE

Michael Cooney | michael.cooney@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R

Danielle Burke | danielle.burke@citylifestyle.com STAF F P H OTO G R AP H E R

Anita Tulodzieski | anitaephoto@gmail.com CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Kristi Sellers | ksellerswriter@gmail.com

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry COO David Stetler CRO Jamie Pentz CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise.

Proverbs 3:5-6 Canton Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Canton area’s most affluent neighborhoods.

Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions.

Visit our Instagram CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/CANTONOH

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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.

Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Canton Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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THE STILL HOUSE AT GERVASI VINEYARD

live music, ultra lounges, & events: MAY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ CA N TO N O H

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inside the issue MAY 2 0 2 6 | L A DI ES

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Featured

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On the Cover

Gervasi Elegance

The women leaders behind the redefining of hospitality, design, and storytelling at Gervasi Vineyard

Mother’s Day Breakfast

Delight mom with homemade belgian waffles

The Art Behind the Ink

Alexa Valentino elevates cosmetic tattooing through precision, tailored artistry, and a commitment to education

Photography: Alan Chavez

Departments 4

Lifestyle Letter

8

City Scene

10

City List

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Chef ’s Selection FOOD + BEVERAGE

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Fashion Forward STYLE + BEAUTY

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Local Limelight ENTERTAINMENT

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Inspired By LIFE + CULTURE

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Outdoor Living LIFE + CULTURE

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Artist’s Palette BEAUTY

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Maker’s Studio ARTS + CULTURE

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Events

Let us design your dream

Call to schedule an appointment at our showroom: 4720 Cleveland Ave SW Canton, OH 44707 330-484-2266

Meet Your Arborist I F YO U A R E READING THIS...

S O I S YO U R B E S T C L I E N T.

Tina Graver, ISA Board Certified Master Arborist (MA-5527B) Your Tree Health Expert

2 OU T OF 3 of our readers regularly purchase from our ads.

ADVERTISE WITH CANTON LIFESTYLE™ CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/CANTON

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440-289-7993

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M AY 2 0 2 6

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

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1-14: ArtsinStark kicked off its 2026 “Arts to the Max” campaign at the Cultural Center for the Arts, aiming to raise $1.45 million to support local arts organizations including the Canton Museum of Art, Canton Palace Theatre, and Canton Symphony Orchestra. Led by Campaign Chair Sue Grabowski, the effort launched with strong momentum, already reaching 52 percent of its goal through early community support.

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Want to be seen in the magazine?

TA G Y O U R I N S TA G R A M P H O T O S W I T H @ C A N T O N L I F E S T Y L E

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’S T OP BUS IN ES

SE

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We have such amazing, innovative business leaders in our community who are proud to serve you, our residents, with class and quality. We’ve compiled some of our top company picks for the services that might be on your mind this month in an effort to make your lives a little easier.

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CITY LIST

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the

OUR PICKS F

Best Hair Salon Hair Technologies & Co. hairtechnologies.com/ | 330.835.9190 Hair Co. https://www.haircosalons.com/ The Hair Shoppe & Spa https://thehairshoppeandspa.com/ Clover House Salon https://www.cloverhousesalon.com/ Wylde Salon thewyldesalon.com

Best Dermatologist Apex Dermatology Canton apexskin.com/canton-oh-dermatology-office/ | 234.410.7546 Dermatology, Surgery, Cosmetics of Northeast Ohio - Canton https://akronmohs.com/ | 330.239.4350

Want to suggest a monthly pick?

G E T I N T O U C H AT CIT YLIFEST YLE .COM/CANTONOH

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C I T Y LIST

Aultman Dermatology aultman.org | 330.452.9911 Trillium Creek https://www.trilliumcreekohio.com/ | 330.725.0569 Allied Dermatology https://alliedderm.com/ | 866.337.6631

Anita Elizabeth Photography

FAMILY

PORTRAIT

LIFESTYLE

SENIOR

WEDDING

ANITAEPHOTO@GMAIL.COM

@ANITAELIZABETHPHOTOGRAPHY

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Ohio Amish Country

Step into a countryside in full bloom – May in Ohio Amish Country welcomes you with color, charm, and fresh inspiration.

Explore locally owned flower shops, family-run greenhouses, and quaint mom & pop markets, each offering hand-tended plants, seasonal décor, and simple joys of the season. Slow down, shop local, and experience Amish Country in full bloom.

Visitamishcountry.com (330) 674-3975 MAY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ CA N TO N O H

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C HE F ’S SE LE CT ION | FOOD + BE VE RAGE

BERRY BRUSCHETTA A RECIPE FROM A CUP FULL OF SASS

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMY TINNIN

This Berry Bruschetta is a delightful twist on the classic bruschetta that we all love. This version uses fruit, bringing a sweet element to the traditionally savory dish. With the use of fresh berries, cream cheese, delicious fruit spread, crumbled cheese, and fresh rosemary, it is the perfect addition to your next spring event. This simple, yet beautiful appetizer could be enjoyed at your next brunch, shower or Mother’s Day celebration. But let’s be honest—you don’t need an excuse to enjoy this delectable dish!

INGREDIENTS: • • • • • • • •

12 baguette slices Extra virgin olive oil (for brushing) 4 oz cream cheese 1/4 cup Fruit and Honey Triple Berry Spread (or any fruit spread of your choice) 1/3 cup fresh strawberries, sliced 1/3 cup fresh blueberries 2 oz fruit cheese (such as Wensleydale with Autumn Fruit), crumbled Fresh rosemary for garnish

DIRECTIONS:

3. Toast baguette slices in the oven for 3-5 minutes or until lightly toasted.

4. Once the baguette slices are cool, spread a generous layer of cream cheese over each slice.

5. Add the fruit spread on top of the cream cheese.

6. Add sliced strawberries and a few blueberries, allowing the vibrant colors to pop. (A great place to find fresh fruit is our local staple, Crystal & Rich’s Produce.)

7. Crumble the fruit cheese over the top for an added layer of richness and depth.

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. 8. Garnish with fresh Rosemary if desired.

2. Lightly brush the front and back of the baguette slices with Extra Virgin Olive Oil.

9. Serve and enjoy!

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ARTICLE BY KALI KASORZYK

BECKY HILLYARD

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

From Side Hustle to Style Empire The power of taste, trust, and the courage to “just start.”

She didn’t have a business plan, a media budget, or even a name anyone could pronounce. What Becky Hillyard had was taste, a young family, and the instinct to just start. Today, her lifestyle brand Cella Jane commands an audience the size of Vogue’s, she’s nine collections strong with Splendid, and she’s built it all while raising three kids — refusing to sacrifice one for the other. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Becky shares what it really takes to build a brand, a career, and a life you love. Read the highlights below, then scan the QR code for the full conversation.

Q: WHEN DID YOU KNOW CELLA JANE WAS MORE THAN A HOBBY? A: Two moments. Women started emailing me saying they bought something I recommended and felt amazing — asking me to help them find a dress for a wedding. That felt incredible. Then I looked at my affiliate numbers for one month and realized I could cover our mortgage. I thought, I can actually do this. I never set out to build a business. I started it because I genuinely loved it.

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FASH ION F OR WA R D | STYLE + BE AU T Y

Becky in Splendid x @CellaJaneBlog Spring 2026 Collection

Becky in Splendid x @CellaJaneBlog Spring 2026 Collection

Q: WHAT WAS THE BIGGEST RISK YOU EVER TOOK WITH THE BRAND? A: Designing my own collection. It’s easy to point at items on a

Q: WHAT WOULD YOU TELL SOMEONE WHO WANTS TO BUILD SOMETHING OF THEIR OWN BUT KEEPS WAITING? A: Don’t wait. Don’t wait for the perfect camera, the right strat-

website and say I love these. But to create something from scratch, put your name on it, and wait to see if people connect with it — that’s terrifying. I had an incredible partner in Splendid, and women loved the pieces. It was the biggest risk and the biggest accomplishment.

egy, or enough followers. We find every excuse to stay comfortable. Just start, be consistent, and be authentically yourself. The right people will find you — and they’ll stay.

Q: HOW HAS INFLUENCER MARKETING CHANGED SINCE YOU STARTED? A: When I started, brands didn’t know whether to take it seriously. Now it’s a legitimate line item in their marketing budgets — sometimes bigger than TV. Because what we’ve built is trust.

People trust a real recommendation from someone they follow far more than a commercial. There’s no question about it now.

Q: YOU’RE A MOM OF THREE RUNNING A FULL BRAND. WHAT DOES YOUR DAY ACTUALLY LOOK LIKE? A: I try to get up at five and not hit snooze — that first hour before the house wakes up is the most productive, most peaceful hour of my day. Then it’s all hands on deck with the kids and school drop-off.

After that I work — planning content, connecting with my team, editing. After pickup, the day shifts completely and it’s all about them.

I’ve learned to protect both halves fiercely, because both matter.

This conversation is just the beginning. Becky goes deeper on the risks that almost stopped her, the design process behind her latest Splendid collection, and what she’d tell her 2012 self today.

Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on the Share the Lifestyle podcast.

“Trust is the only metric that actually compounds.”

— Becky Hillyard

F E AT U R I N G B E C K Y H I L LYA R D The brand millions follow. Hear how it really star ted. Scan for the full conversation.

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The women leaders behind the redefining of hospitality, design, and storytelling at Gervasi Vineyard

ARTICLE BY KRISTI SELLERS PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANITA TUDOLZIESKI

Gervasi Elegance

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LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | ENTE RTAIN ME N T

Photo by Mal McCrea

At Gervasi Vineyard Resort & Spa, the experience begins long before a glass is poured or a room key is given. Gervasi is more than a destination. What’s remembered long after you leave, is much more than the beautiful setting; it’s the people who have shaped it. Gervasi is an immersion of senses, but defined by how it makes people feel. Behind that experience are the women who have developed it at every level.

For Chief Operating Officer, Gretchen Wendell, that understanding comes from having worked in every layer of the business. She began her career at ground level as a bartender and now holds the position as COO. Her perspective is rooted in proximity to the guest. She has learned not just what they enjoy, but how those moments form someone’s overall experience.

“Employees who are guest facing notice preferences and patterns of guests over time,” Wendell said. “Often when you ask someone about a memorable experience anywhere, they want to describe how they felt.”

For Wendell, hospitality isn’t a script, it’s a mindset. The experience at Gervasi is designed to feel effortless and is built on an understanding of what guests need before they even ask.

“We are very intentional behind the scenes to create an environment where multiple senses are triggered at the same time!

Is the atmosphere aesthetically beautiful, is the lighting and music right, how comfortable is the seating, what do you smell, how are you greeted?” Wendell added.

Gervasi makes it a point to zero in on as many senses as possible. That creates something entirely different for every individual.

“Walking into the Still House you immediately smell the coffee house or distillery’s mash and fermentation process. At the same time, the lighting and music give you a ‘vibe check’ that feels exciting. When multiple senses are triggered at the same time, you feel and remember that experience more strongly,” Wendell said.

It’s this kind of thoughtful attention that quietly sets the tone for everything that follows. There’s something luxurious in the way the light settles over the vineyards, the calm of the lakes, and the quiet hum of conversation drifting from the adirondack chairs on a patio at dusk. This 55-acre estate will draw you in with its Tuscan-inspired feel and timeless elegance.

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LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | ENTE RTAIN ME N T

“A beautiful space may set the initial tone, but truly memorable experiences are built through meaningful moments that make each guest feel recognized, valued, understood, and personally cared for.”

Beyond the first impression, there’s a larger story unfolding at Gervasi. As Director of Hotel & Resort Operations, Susan Monteleone’s journey reflects the kind of organic growth that defines the property’s culture. Originally hired as a host when the Bistro first opened, she has steadily risen through the organization. Her perspective is also deeply rooted in firsthand experience, influencing a leadership style centered on consistency, care, and an intuitive understanding of the guest experience from arrival to departure.

She plays an integral role in fashioning how that story is told. The vineyard isn’t positioned as exclusive or intimidating, but as an elevated experience to be enjoyed.

“A beautiful space may set the initial tone, but truly memorable experiences are built through meaningful moments that make each guest feel recognized, valued, understood, and personally cared for,” Monteleone said. “That level of service doesn’t happen by chance. It’s taught. Our staff participates in a dedicated training program designed to instill these principles, ensuring that every interaction reflects the thoughtful, personalized experience our guests expect and deserve.”

Details are never overlooked as everything is intricately planned. From the linens and the heated tile floors in the Villas, to the glasses and silverware at OLINDA, these decisions are made with the guest in mind.

As a mother-daughter duo, Christi and Sophie Blackerby represent both the legacy and future of Gervasi’s creative identity.

Christi, Buyer for The Marketplace and interior collaborator, helps illustrate the property’s visual world through intentional, layered design. Most recently contributing to the OLINDA interior alongside the leadership team. Her daughter Sophie, Social Media & Content Specialist, grew up alongside the brand and now helps define how it is experienced digitally. Together, they bridge physical space and storytelling.

This is the standard that defines Gervasi’s approach to luxury: not excess, but intention. That same intention carries into the design of each space. Christi Blackerby approaches every Gervasi environment with a clear vision rooted in elevated guest experience.

“I always begin with a clear vision, usually a theme, mood, or feeling I want to create for a particular season or space.

From there, I look for a standout piece that really captures that idea, and I build around it. It might be a texture, a color palette, or even a single object that sets the tone,” Blackerby said.

With this in mind, Sophie is able to add yet another dimension to the family business.

“Today, I’m really focused on creating content that not only performs well, but truly reflects the Gervasi experience. It’s about balancing high-quality, elevated visuals with content that still feels engaging and relevant. I want everything we post to feel intentional—something that either tells a story, sets a mood, or helps someone picture themselves here.”

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Sophie concluded, “at the end of the day, the goal is always the same: to create content that feels inspiring, memorable, and true to the brand—while continuing to evolve with our audience and the platforms we’re on.”

Similarly, there are moments that turn a visit into something more. Andrea Hartman, Marketing Director, ensures every event at Gervasi unfolds effortlessly and feels as meaningful as it is seamless.

She was first inspired to join the property after eight years with the Canton Chamber of Commerce. There, she developed a deep appreciation for tourism and community-driven events. Seeking a new chapter while continuing to promote Canton as a destination, she found a natural fit in Gervasi’s role as a premier hospitality and tourism experience.

“We focus on telling stories that highlight the emotion behind the experience—whether that’s a romantic getaway, a girls’ weekend, a wedding, or even a quiet afternoon with a glass of wine. By showcasing real moments, seasonal experiences, and the people behind what we do, we create a sense of authenticity that resonates with guests.”

Behind every great story is a person who saw the vision before it became a reality. Co-founder Linda Swaldo, had a vision to transform a simple piece of land into a destination that now feels both expansive, unique, and personal. Her influence is woven into every detail, from the architecture to the philosophy of hospitality that defines who Gervasi is.

“Back in 2009, the barn was nothing like it looks today, it was dilapidated and actually unsafe to walk in. We had to move very carefully, watching every step to avoid weak floorboards, and in some spots, you could see straight down into the basement,” Swaldo reminisced.

“Standing there, I remember thinking, I hope we can restore this place into something people would actually want to come to. With a lot of planning, imagination, and hard work, my hope was that guests would be able to see the charm in this old, broken-down barn—that they would find the history and character fascinating, even amidst all the restoration.”

Together these women have left their individual mark to create a legacy for Canton to be proud of.

It’s a place that invites you to slow down, to stay awhile, and to return again. Above all, it’s a place shaped by women who understand that the most lasting memories are those experienced.

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LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | ENTE RTAIN ME N T

we’re closer than you think!

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APRIL SHOWERS BRING MAY FLOWERS ARTICLE BY SARAH KNIEFF

Supplies: • Flowers of your choice • Scissors • Twine or floral tape • Ribbon (optional) • Decorative paper

Decorate Your Space With a DIY Floral Design Spring: the days grow longer, weather turns warmer, and the earth’s greenery starts to make its reappearance. During this time, flowers shoot up from the ground in a ballet of colors and movement. Walking outside becomes a cherished moment to breathe the fresh air and immerse yourself in lush surroundings. Being inside your home turns dreary and dull, everything that thrives is now outside, but this can easily be remedied. Why not bring some life inside? Make a spring floral bouquet to lighten up your space.

Flowers add color and character to any room that needs a little lift, and our step-by-step guide will inspire you to create something grand.

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I NSP IR E D BY | L I FE + C ULT U RE

(optional) • Bouquet sleeve (optional)

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Directions:

Step 1: When creating a beautiful floral arrangement, the first thing to do is decide on a color scheme and prepare the flowers. Have fun deciding what colors you want to play with.

Perhaps go pastel for spring or match the hues to other decor items in your house. Once you have picked your flowers, you need to do a little prep work. First, remove extra leaves and damaged petals from the stems. Then make a fresh diagonal cut to the bottom of all the flowers. This allows each bloom to soak up as much water as they need.

Step 2: Now it’s arranging time — think focal and filler. The best way to start the arranging process is by choosing your most interesting or favorite flowers — this will be your focal point. Hold the focal flower(s) upright and add your supporting blooms around it. Make sure to turn the bouquet as you build so that the design is as desired. Once this is complete, add your filler flowers to finalize the look. Filler options include

“Just remember, whatever way you choose to decorate your bouquet, you will end

baby’s breath, ivy, fern, eucalyptus and more.

Step 3: Let’s get ready to tie. Once you’ve arranged your bouquet, tie all the stems together using twine or floral tape.

If using twine, we recommend securing it in a small bow in case you would like to rearrange at any given time. Floral tape is easy to move on and off for this purpose as well.

Step 4: Add the finishing touches. At this point, you

with a personalized piece

are almost done with your bouquet and all that’s left is

made with love

your creation: one way we love is to wrap it in fun decorative

and care.”

embellishments. There are so many ways to further adorn paper or put it in a special sleeve made just for flowers. If this idea isn’t for you, we recommend going to Pinterest for inspiration. Just remember, whatever way you choose to decorate your bouquet, you will end with a personalized piece made with love and care.

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I NSP IR E D BY | L I FE + C ULT U RE

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O UT D OOR LIV IN G | L I FE + CU LT U RE

DELIGHT MOM WITH HOMEMADE BELGIAN WAFFLES ARTICLE BY MATTHEW SOUSA Mother’s Day is the perfect occasion to treat Mom to a special homemade breakfast, and nothing says “I love you” like a plate of warm, fluffy Belgian waffles.

These waffles are crispy on the outside, light and airy on the inside, and perfect for a delicious morning celebration.

CLASSIC BELGIAN WAFFLE RECIPE Ingredients: • 2 cups all-purpose flour • 2 tbsp sugar • 1 tbsp baking powder • ½ tsp salt • 2 eggs, separated • 1¾ cups milk • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted • 1 tsp vanilla extract Instructions: 1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

2. In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks, then mix in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.

3. Combine the wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.

4. In another bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form, then gently fold them into the batter.

5. Preheat your waffle iron and lightly grease it. Pour in enough batter to cover the surface and cook until golden brown and crisp.

Serving Suggestions: Top the waffles with fresh berries, whipped cream, and a drizzle of maple syrup or chocolate sauce. Pair with a hot cup of coffee or fresh orange juice for a perfect Mother’s Day surprise.

This simple yet elegant breakfast is a heartfelt way to show Mom just how much she means to you. Happy Mother’s Day!

Mother’s Day BREAKFAST

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THE ART BEHIND THE INK

Inside Valentino Ink in North Canton, owner and founder Alexa Valentino is part of a growing movement elevating cosmetic tattooing into a refined, highly personalized art form where technique, trust, and education guide each client’s experience. Her work has established both a standard for cosmetic tattooing and a growing foundation for education and mentorship across Northeast Ohio.

She was first introduced to permanent makeup at a pivotal point in her life after moving back home to North Canton. Without a defined path, she was drawn to a career that offered financial freedom and flexibility as she began thinking about her future and family life, knowing she wanted to build something that would allow her to have both independence and control over her time.

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A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | BEAU T Y

ARTICLE BY DANIELLE BURKE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALAN CHAVEZ

ALEXA VALENTINO ELEVATES COSMETIC TATTOOING THROUGH PRECISION, TAILORED ARTISTRY, AND A COMMITMENT TO EDUCATION.

“I thought learning Permanent Makeup would be a fun ‘side hustle,’ but I quickly learned that these services are actually very impactful for clients. It was such a new concept in our area with so much opportunity for growth and I wanted to be a part of that evolution however I could,” Valentino said.

When she began taking clients in 2018, Valentino was working independently while managing a Starbucks. For nearly three years, she worked seven days a week while building her skill and portfolio, continuing to invest in herself while navigating uncertainty and the risks that come with starting something from the ground up.

During that time, she met her husband, started a family, and welcomed twin daughters. That became the turning point in her decision to fully commit to Valentino Ink. “That was the moment I was ‘all in’ on Valentino Ink,” she said.

Valentino transitioned into working with clients full time, allowing her to fully focus on refining her craft and expanding her brand.

She added that tattooing faces carries a level of responsibility that is never taken lightly. Her approach is rooted in precision, ongoing education, and a commitment to mastery that evolves with experience. Over the course of her career, she has completed nine certification courses, each one building her technical foundation.

Still, she believes growth in this field never stops, and she carries that same mindset into every tailored client experience.

Valentino has completed over 4,000 procedures, offering Luxury Nano Brow, Combo brows, Ombré Powder brows, Lip Blush, Eyeliner, and removal/lightening services. Each appointment begins with a detailed consultation where she evaluates skin type, facial structure, medical history, and lifestyle. From there, she determines technique, pigment selection, and placement with intention. Her focus is always longevity, ensuring results heal naturally and age with the client over time.

“As a service provider, it is so important to create a space where my clients feel comfortable throughout every part of their experience,” Valentino added. “They should feel seen, heard, included, and validated the entire time.”

For Valentino, the impact of her work often extends far beyond aesthetics. Some clients come to her seeking the typical luxury service, while most come for restoration after experiencing hair loss, medical conditions, scarring, or post surgical changes. She also works with clients navigating vision impairment or tremors that make traditional makeup application difficult.

“To be able to give someone confidence back, is always an honor and reminds me that this work is significant,” she said.

As her career has evolved, so has her role as an educator.

Valentino stepped into training after recognizing a gap in industry standards and education. When she began, many artists entered the field through short courses with limited structure or long term support.

CONTINUED >

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Her program was built to change that experience. Today, she focuses on creating structure, confidence, and mentorship for new artists. Her curriculum is currently in the process of accreditation through the American Academy of Micropigmentation, a step she believes is essential to raising standards in Northeast Ohio.

“I continuously searched for more information, taking additional courses, and learning through so much trial and error,” she said.

She hopes her students leave not only with technical skill, but with confidence in their path.

“I just hope they feel inspired and empowered,” Valentino said. “This career has given me more than I ever imagined, and truly has changed my life. So many of the women I mentor are looking for the same things I once daydreamed about and when they trust me enough to invest into my programs, they trust me to lead them. That is something I take very seriously and oddly

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A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | BEAU T Y

enough, they continue to give me the exact thing in return... inspiration and empowerment.”

Behind the growth, she is transparent about the challenge of balance. As a business owner, wife, and mother, she continues to navigate multiple roles while staying grounded in her priorities.

“I don’t think I have quite mastered it yet but it is certainly something I am still working to navigate,” she said.

One of her proudest milestones is opening Ora D’Oro Studio and Academy in 2025. After years of building, she now works inside a space created with intention, surrounded by artists and students who have become a pivotal part of her journey, bringing the vision to life each day.

“It’s truly not something I could ever put into words,” she said.

Looking ahead, Valentino hopes Valentino Ink is known not only for cosmetic tattooing, but for the confidence it builds in clients and the empowerment it gives to artists.

More than anything, she hopes her daughters grow up seeing what is possible through risk and resilience.

Her advice to women starting a business is simple: “Trust your vision, even when others can’t see or understand it. Have patience, because each season will look different. And give yourself grace, because not every step of the way will be perfect. Above all, define your ‘why’ or nothing else matters.”

Through her studio and academy, Valentino continues to educate and empower women in North Canton and beyond.

For more information or to book an appointment visit valentinoink.com.

“TO BE ABLE TO GIVE SOMEONE CONFIDENCE BACK, IS ALWAYS AN HONOR AND REMINDS ME THAT THIS WORK IS SIGNIFICANT.” MAY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ CA N TO N O H

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DIY DAY INSPIRATION FOR A MOTHER/ DAUGHTER DIY DAY

WITH MOM

ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN 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.

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M AK E R’S ST U D IO | ARTS + CU LT U RE

Charm Necklaces

01

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.

Meal Prep

Interview Journaling

03

02

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.

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!

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M AY 2 0 2 6

events A S E L E C T I O N O F U P C O M I N G LO C A L E V E N T S

M AY 1 ST

Canton First Friday Make-N-Takes at Boomdyada 332 4th Street Northwest Canton, Ohio 44702 | 5:00 PM As part of Downtown Canton’s monthly First Friday celebration, Boomdyada invites guests to drop in for themed make-and-take projects; ranging from terrariums to seasonal creations.

M AY 9 T H

Sweat Now, Wine Later Adventure Race at Gervasi Vineyard Gervasi Vineyard 1700 55th Street Northeast Canton , Ohio 44721 | 9:00 AM Experience a unique race from Nimishillen Creek to Gervasi Vineyard. Participants kayak 1.5 miles from Martindale Park, then run or walk 2.5 miles to the finish, celebrating with wine or strawberry sage lemonade. This race is set against the vineyard’s scenic grounds—an ideal blend of nature, fitness, and fun.

M AY 9 T H

Mother’s Day Tea & Terrarium Workshop The Daffodil Room 332 4th Street Northwest Canton , Ohio 44702 | 10:00 AM Celebrate Mother’s Day at a charming tea and terrarium workshop at The Daffodil Room by Boomdyada. Enjoy tea, sweets, and create whimsical teacup gardens with succulents. A perfect for making memories and take-home keepsakes.

M AY 9 T H

720 Market: SidestreetMKTS Hey, Mama Oakwood Square 2610Easton Street Northeast North Canton , Ohio | 10:00 AM Celebrate “Second Saturdays at the Square,” a SidestreetMKTS series at Oakwood Square Plaza, May through October. This month honors Mom with open-air shopping, local vendors, food trucks, and live entertainment, plus DORA access to enjoy drinks while you explore.

M AY 1 5T H

Matilda — The Musical Kent State University Stark Fine Arts Building 6000 Frank Avenue Northwest North Canton , Ohio 44720 | 7:30 PM Based on the beloved book by Roald Dahl, Matilda the Musical features book by Dennis Kelly and music and lyrics by Tim Minchin. This thrilling production follows a brilliant young girl who uses courage, wit, and a touch of magic to stand up to injustice.

M AY 2 2 N D

Hall of Fame Ribs Burnout Pro Football Hall of Fame 2121 George Halas Drive Northwest Canton , Ohio 44708 | 11:00 AM Kick off summer with a three-day celebration on the campus of the Pro Football Hall of Fame over Memorial Day weekend. Enjoy family-friendly activities and special programming each day. Free admission for all guests throughout the event.

Want to be featured?

G E T I N T O U C H AT C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E . C O M / C A N T O N O H

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EVE N TS

Her love is forever & her jewelry should be too.

Celebrate Mom this Mother’s Day with a gift as beautiful as her love.

4917 Tuscarawas St W, Canton, OH 44708 330-479-9088 | annemariesfinejewelry.com

Spring Clean-Out?

(330) 521-3555

www.olsensjunkremoval.com MAY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ CA N TO N O H

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