FOOD + BEVERAGE HOW COFFEE BUILDS COMMUNITY
ARTS + CULTURE BEHIND THE CREATIVITY
LOCAL LIVING: SHARING SECRETS AROUND TOWN
MAY 2023
Our sunroom’s skylights are a great way to boost your spirits!
A roof window provides your home with the benefits of natural light and fresh air.
Skylights bring in daylight, making any space feel brighter, bigger, and more welcoming.
With skylights, you can reduce your reliance on artificial lighting during the day, lowering your energy consumption and costs.
Skylights can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any home, creating a stunning focal point in any room.
Skylights can be opened to allow fresh air to flow into your home, promoting a healthier indoor environment and reducing the need for air conditioning.
Skylights are a desirable feature for homebuyers, making your property more attractive to potential buyers and potentially increasing its value.
Experience the wonder of gazing at the sky before bedtime with our skylights.
PURCHASE ONE OF OUR SKYLIGHTS AND RECEIVE A FREE CUT-IN SKYLIGHT FOR A LIMITED TIME. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to enhance your home and save money!
Many people believe May is the best month of the year in Indiana. Days become longer and temperatures become warmer. The State comes together around shared excitement for the Indianapolis 500. As spring arrives in Carmel, race flags fly and colorful flowers bloom, signaling the start of a new season. The sidewalks are once again filled with people, and the buzz of anticipation for family and community gatherings reawakens our city as we all embrace the freshness that spring brings.
As the month unfolds, I find myself coming out of winter hibernation and ready to embrace the new activities that come with warmer weather. I begin venturing more into the outdoors at home or taking advantage of Carmel’s ample opportunities for exploration. There are so many outdoor spaces to discover from our beautiful downtown and Midtown to the newly green city parks. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll, trail hike, or relaxing in the sunshine, the possibilities are endless.
We are thrilled to unveil the May issue of our magazine. Our second issue highlights some hidden gems in Carmel and the many ways to enjoy the gorgeous weather. We also invite you to visit a local hotspot that offers more than coffee, while our stunning home feature showcases the beauty of outdoor living. Each article is meant to bring you along with us as we journey through Carmel.
We want to thank you for the very positive response to our first issue last month. We’re humbled by the kindness and support shown by our readers and business partners. Our goal is to connect our readers with engaging content and introduce you to new experiences and people in our city. We take pride in being a bridge that connects you with the pulse of the city, and we are grateful for the opportunity to do so. Thank you for reading and choosing us to be a source of information and inspiration.
Whether you are a long-time resident of Carmel or a first-time visitor, our May issue has something for everyone. We’re committed to curating engaging and informative content that displays the beauty of our city. Our team hopes you find this issue as enjoyable to read as we did to create. Thank you for choosing our magazine as a guide to Carmel!
May 2023
PUBLISHER
Andrea Kulsrud | andrea.kulsrud@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Danielle Daugherty
danielle.daugherty@citylifestyle.com
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore
DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer
ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor
OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson
WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen
Where neighbors can see and be seen.
Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @carmel.city.lifestyle
1: Warm, sunny days around town always bring out the sweetest smiles. 2: Carmel Community Players during the spring performance of, “The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940.” 3: Scenthound didn’t let a little rain stop their celebration! Now open at Clay Terrace. 4: Friends gather for a creative birthday celebration at Painting with a Twist. 5: Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre competition team celebrates wins at the Rainbow National Dance Competition. 6: One runner was all smiles during a previous Carmel Marathon. This year’s event was 4/8/23.
HerMD is paving a different path for women's health after opening its first Indiana location in Carmel. HerMD is healthcare powered by a female-founded, physician-led organization, focusing on gynecology, menopause, sexual health, and medical aesthetics. Their unique model sets them apart from others by specializing in two, often overlooked and underserved, areas of women’s health: menopause and sexual health. Providers also allocate more time to patient visits, including 60 minutes for all new patient consultations.
Scan to read more.
Doug and Sarah Davis are thrilled to introduce Carmel residents to Scenthound, a dog care concept prioritizing the wellness of your furry friend. In addition to routine haircuts and baths, Scenthound performs a comprehensive 6-point wellness check to ensure your dog enjoys a long, healthy life. They also offer monthly membership services- conveniently booked through an app. Scenthound is located at Clay Terrace and welcomes pet owners to schedule appointments Monday-Saturday, 8am-5 pm.
Scan to read more.
With patented medical technology, eSpot delivers fast relief and accelerated wound healing, while reducing inflammation related to soft tissue injuries. eSpot’s FDA-approved therapy offers a versatile and effective alternative to traditional pain management methods such as drugs, surgery, and physical therapies. The TheraLase System allows patients from all walks of life, including professional athletes, to get back to living. For more information visit them online at ESpotSpa.com or give them a call at 317-564-8255.
Scan to read more.
Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Carmel
Scandinavian contemporary design is a growing trend. This style intentionally blends natural elements with design to create function and beauty within a home. Carmel’s very own Old Town Design Group is accomplishing both with their newest model home in Chatham Hills.
“When building and designing this space, we were very intentional about bringing the outdoors in. So we have a lot of open air, a lot of open spaces, big giant windows, and the house is set far back on the lot because we want the homeowners to see all of the outdoors and not just see your neighbors,” shares Bailey Nance, Marketing and Communications Manager.
The 8,000+ sq. ft. interior is impressive, but very cozy and livable, and the exterior is also a beautiful mix of colors and textures. The outdoor living spaces are luxurious retreats, extending the interior of the home for relaxing, entertaining, or gathering with family and friends. Large windows
allow natural light to pour in and the architecture compliments the landscape. “We always look at the lot features and make the home as beautiful and impactful as we can,” Bailey shares.
FEATURE 1
Owner’s Balcony Retreat: stunning overlook of the lake; provides a private retreat at sunrise or sunset.
FEATURE 2
Main Level Balcony: large living area with pocket glass doors; balcony includes fully retractable screens, an outdoor kitchen, and fire pit for more entertainment and living space.
FEATURE 3
Lower Level Enclave : paver patio with fountain extends the lower level theater and lounge; provides privacy as a secluded enclave for more intimate conversations.
HOW LONG HAVE YOU LIVED IN CARMEL?
I’ve been living in Carmel for four years since moving from Kokomo, but I grew up in Detroit, Michigan.
WHAT INSPIRES YOUR ART?
A lot of my work has to do with what I see in the stones. I line them up on my bench and walk past them several times to get an idea of what I want to do with them. Then, I start sketching and imagining the designs.
I love the ability to control what I want to do and design what I want to design. I also love learning about the different stones/colorations and what they meanthe origins of the stones.
I’ve had an artist’s heart all my life, but I was a CEO at a not-for-profit for children and adults with special needs for 42 years. Close to the end of my career, I started to take classes at Indianapolis Art Center for silversmithing and jewelry making. It’s been my creative outlet for 8 years.
WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN FIVE YEARS?
I hope to continue to be a valuable member of Indiana Artisans and continue to create for different boutiques around Indiana and surrounding states.
Jill Dunn
HOW LONG HAVE YOU LIVED IN INDIANA?
I grew up in New Jersey, but moved to Indy 6 years ago after meeting Radie, my wife who is a photographer, on Instagram .
WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT YOUR WORK?
I am an abstract artist, so I love when people make up their own mind about the meaning of my work. That’s how you know you’ve connected with the person.
WHAT INSPIRES YOUR ART?
Music is the biggest factor for my art. They say there’s a song for every emotion, so even when I paint commissioned work, I ask clients to send a playlist and then listen to it on loop to convey the interpretation of the songs. If there wasn’t music, I wouldn’t paint.
When my father passed in 2015, I felt compelled to paint again and it grew like wildfire.
WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN FIVE YEARS?
I want to be continuing on the path I am on right now. There is a comfortable balance between my life, work, and art.
I grew up in Avon, and went to Purdue to study Graphic Design. My husband and I moved to Carmel about a year ago; we feel so lucky to have a home here.
I am a huge animal lover. I was an only-child of a single mom, so at times while growing up, it was just me and my animals. Color is also such a huge part of my life, so my art reflects both of these. The color and medium I use in my work really reflects my mood for the day. There’s truly a season for each of the mediums.
My work is a true representation of who I am as a person. I’m very energetic, lively, and I just love color. Everything about my work just screams energy and happiness, and I feel like each piece just kind of lights up on its own.
In 2022, I applied and was accepted to become an Indiana Artisan- it’s been the highlight of my last year! Moving forward, I want more people to get the chance to see my art. I plan to continue commissioned work, but I also want my work to be re-printable and available for anyone to enjoy.
Taylor Walker
Expressionist Fine Artist and Illustrator
“My work is a true representation of who I am as a person. I’m very energetic, lively, and I just love color.”
Carmel’s best-kept secrets promise hidden gems worth discovering...if you know where to look.
“My best kept secret is the White River Greenway Trail on Carmel’s eastern border. Park on the south end of White River Park near 126th and River Road. You can bike or walk, making sure to stop at each of the White River overlooks along the way. In the Fall, the colors are breathtaking.”
ALLYSON SMITH Foundation Manager, Hancock Health Foundation“I love going to plays and musicals, but tickets for the bigger theaters around Indy can be expensive. Right here in Carmel, we have the Booth Tarkington Civic Theatre which offers a variety of shows throughout the year that are surprisingly affordable, showcase local talent, and many are kid-friendly!”
MATT CARROLL Senior Associate, Avison Young
“There are a lot of things I love about Carmel, but the one that stands out the most is its great parks. Meadowlark Park is my favorite place to take my kids. It sits on 19 acres in the heart of the Arts & Design District. It has an impressive “tree-tastic” playground, Pickleball courts, a fishing pier, walking trails, and a full basketball court.”
CHELSEA KOPELMAN Founder, Keeping Up In Carmel
“We love taking our family to the Movies at Midtown! We grab lunch or dinner from a Midtown restaurant, then sit on the lawn and watch on the big screen! If the kids want to get some energy out, we walk down to the Monon Playspace then pop back to Midtown to finish the movie—it’s a free, fun event for everyone.”
GARY BRACKETT Owner, Gary Bracket Real Estate Team“eSpot Medical Spa has great customer service and their cold laser therapy really helped get me back on my feet.”
ARTICLE BY DANIELLE DAUGHERTY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CAROLINE PIPER
12 years ago, Kevin and Diane McAndrews moved from Oregon to Carmel in search of community- where they could gather with others who share similar interests. One afternoon in October 2016, while they were riding their bikes, they stumbled upon a place in the heart of Carmel where they could make their dream of building a place for people to gather together a reality.
Since then, 220 E. Main Street has become a local hotspot for community building, attracting people from all walks of life. The McAndrews chose the property because of its ideal location. “When the property came up for sale, we thought that it would be a really perfect
spot. It was in the area close to the high school, close to the library, still in a walkable part of the community, and had a great neighborhood behind that has been supportive of us,” shares owner Diane McAndrews.
Nestled within a charming former residence just west of the high school, Indie Coffee Roasters has become a beloved gathering spot for both Carmel locals and visitors from surrounding areas. From wellknown athletes to Indy 500 race car drivers, and from friendly neighbors to regular business travelers, Diane welcomes everyone with open arms, treating them like cherished friends within her establishment. “We want
to make it as easy as possible for you to sit down for a cup of coffee. You order, we get your name, and then we take it out to you. When you're in the shop, you're more than a guest, you're company.” The goal is for visitors to have more than just a great cup of coffee because the McAndrews want conversations to continue so relationships can be built.
Since its establishment in 2018, Indie Coffee Roasters has played a vital role in many special occasions, including proposals, birthday celebrations, and other joyous events. The warm and inviting ambiance of the coffee shop even brought two of its employees together, who fell in love and eventually tied the knot. Today, they are happily married with children, a testament to the welcoming atmosphere Indie Coffee Roasters provides for both its staff and guests.
Over the years, the Carmel community’s support for Indie Coffee Roasters has allowed them to extend their generosity to other organizations in need like Hope Center Indy and Prevail, Inc. in Indianapolis, as well as Gashru Coffee in Rwanda. They partnered with these nonprofit organizations and designated them as beneficiaries of their signature drink sales. This initiative has allowed Indie Coffee Roasters to give back and contribute to causes important to them.
Diane shared they have also hosted an adoption drive for Indy Humane Society for the past several years. “They bring their truck to our Carmel location and it brings awareness. We also give [them]
proceeds from the coffee sales that day.” The McAndrews have taken great joy in seeing customers welcome furry friends into their families as a result of these events. So naturally, the business has created a welcoming space- on the patio- for them too!
Looking to the future, Indie Coffee Roasters has big plans. They are continuing to innovate with new flavors, like their espresso blend, Circle, as well as stay on trend with holiday specialty drinks and pour over options. To celebrate some of their past success, they are also showcasing some throwback flavors, “Right now, we are bringing back our signature drinks from the last five years and representing them each quarter.” For Indie Coffee Roasters, it's about more than just coffee – they want their customers to experience the unique processes and regions that shape their flavors, creating a truly unforgettable and immersive experience.
In addition to being a community hotspot in Carmel, Indie Coffee Roasters has a second location in West Lafayette and has plans to open two more locations by fall of this year. One will be in Carmel's north end off 136 and includes a bakery storefront, offering delicious treats and fresh-baked goods to complement their signature coffee drinks. The second location will be in Federal Hill Park in Noblesville, providing yet another inviting setting for customers to gather, relax, and enjoy their favorite beverages.
www.indiecoffeeroasters.com
“We want to make it as easy as possible for you to sit down for a cup of coffee... When you’re in the shop, you’re more than a guest, you’re company.”
The moms and the mother figures in our lives mean everything to us. They deserve the best every day, of course. But at least one day out of the year, we get to shower them with the same love and thoughtfulness they give to us so selflessly.
This year, we hope you’ll consider some memorable ways to make lasting memories with the mom or mother figure in your life. If you haven’t already planned something special, take a look at our list of ideas and circle your favorites. If you have kids, let them join in the fun too!
Whether you decide to spend a day at home or enjoy a day on the town, these innovative celebration ideas will include fun for the whole family and make Mom feel loved. Whatever activity or surprise you land on to show your mom, wife, sister or maternal figure your appreciation for all they do, the most important thing is that you all get to spend some quality time together.
Mother’s Day arrives just as spring is in full bloom. Take advantage of the season by going to a flower arranging class with mom.
Mom will truly appreciate you going out of your way to set her up with a massage or facial appointment. Invite her friends along, too!
Songs about mothers and mom’s favorite songs can come together into the perfect playlist to put on during brunch or dinner. You can either make it for her or take turns being DJ and alternate picks.
DIY pizza: It’s a craft (depending on how artfully you place the toppings), an activity and a meal all at once! Start with basic pizza dough, then everyone gets to add their favorite toppings. Mom gets the first pick, of course.
Croquet, cornhole, bocce, outdoor Jenga or horseshoes — what’s your family’s game of choice? Split into teams and drum up some friendly rivalry — while soaking in rays — with a backyard challenge. Make it an annual event, and pass around a trophy to the winner each year.
For the mom who’s always seeking adventure, a trip to your nearest amusement park will be a welcome surprise. Not only will you be able to treat her to her fill of funnel cakes and caramel corn, but she’ll enjoy all the rides and attractions her heart desires. If you ask us, it’s a win-win.
Sure, backyard barbecues are often associated with Father’s Day, but Mom loves her burgers and dogs, too, so why should Dad get all the fun? If the weather cooperates, fire up the grill!
If you do a DIY craft project, write a poem or come up with a silly dance, you know mom will love it because it is 100% you. No one can one-up a one-of-a-kind experience! You can make them for her and present them to her, or involve her in their creation.
Gardeners know that Mother’s Day is the perfect time to start planting seeds. Get the whole family outside and dig in the dirt together. Every time she sees them, she’ll be reminded of the special day — it’s the gift that keeps on giving! Some flowers that are fairly easy to maintain include sunflowers, marigolds and sweet peas.
Not only will you leave with a one-of-a-kind piece, but you’ll also be able to bond as you explore a new activity.
There’s nothing like waking up with the sun and going to the farmer’s market on the weekend. Pick fresh produce and discover new favorites with mom, coffee in hand.
Whether this involves digitizing old VHS tapes or getting video files off your phone and onto the TV, dig into the family archives and host a home-movie marathon. She’ll get emotional seeing how much everyone has grown.
Dad knows - Mom has a to-do list a mile long. Whether it’s tasks around the house or a DIY project, find out what has been nagging Mom and help her cross it off her list by doing it for her!
I
Spring is here! We compiled a list of flowers that - depending on your planting zone - can be planted in the season.
Plumbago
Has beautiful dark blue or white flowers on a large shrub of 3 to 5 feet. This tends to freeze down in winter and comes back from roots in the spring.
Hibiscus
The tropical variety will not survive the winters so move those pots inside. The plant can get up to 5 feet tall and there are many different colors and varieties. The perennial varieties will freeze to the ground but come back in the spring. The variety Moy Grande is known as the dinner plate hibiscus. The Texas star hibiscus has beautiful flowers in red or white.
Bougainvillea
These colorful plants can be planted in baskets and pots, not in water-logged or low areas where water might collect. They will grow best when given enough space to spread out, and should be planted in an area that will allow them a minimum of 5-6 hours of sunlight every day. Colors include orange, pink, purple, white, red, tangerine and fuschia to name a few.
Purslane
This is great in baskets for trailing leaves with lots of colors. The bees love it!
This 3 to 4-foot bush is a must for monarch lovers. Monarchs feed on the leaves before making their cocoons. It has beautiful orange and yellow flowers.
This is a great hot weather plant that comes in many colors and varieties. Trailing varieties only get about 1 foot tall but can get 3 to 4 feet wide. There are bush varieties that get 4 feet tall and dwarf bushes only get about 2 feet tall. It comes in yellows, purples, reds, oranges, pinks, fuschia, and many others.
This fuzzy light blue flower is a butterfly favorite.
This is another bee and butterfly favorite that grows about 10 to 12 inches tall. There is a graffiti variety in different colors that works in beds or pots.
This plant comes in upright or trailing varieties. There are many colors to choose from: lavender, white with a red center, peach, white and red pink to strawberry.
Sages
There are many varieties of sage. The Texas sage is a shrub that has beautiful lavender flowers - a favorite for bees. They usually bloom around the time it rains. Henry Duelberg variety is a smaller bush 18 to 20 inches tall with blue stalks of blooms. Russian Sage is a tall silver lacey foliage with light blue flower spikes and grows to 4 feet tall. Deer tend to stay away from most of the sages.
ARTICLE BY LORI HAWKINSThis plant makes a large bush of red or pink flowers. It has low water needs once established and can tolerate drought conditions and hot temperatures. Prune back plant in winter if it gets too leggy.
These need more water than most other plants and come in many colors. They are valued for their vibrant colors, abundant blooms, and tolerance for shade.
With lush multicolored leaves, many larger than the palm of your hand, caladiums have become one of the most popular foliage plants for shady or semi-shady gardens—with many recent introductions being sun tolerant.
A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.
MONDAYS
Midtown Music Mondays
MIDTOWN PLAZA | 5:00 PM
Ready for dinner and some music? Come to Midtown and carry out some fine flavors from our growing number of Midtown restaurants. Then relax on the community chairs, benches, swings and green spaces while taking in live music on the Main Stage. Music Mondays will be 5 – 7 p.m. beginning May 1 through October 30.
MAY 1ST
5th Annual Cheftacular
CARTER GREEN | 6:30 PM
Everyone’s favorite charity culinary competition is back! Tickets include: small plates (savory & sweet dishes), live music, and a silent auction, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.. Teams compete for prizes, scholarships, and the title: Best of Cheftacular. All proceeds benefit CHS Culinary Arts and the Hamilton County Harvest Food Bank. For tickets and more info, visit: event.ontaptickets.com/ events/cheftacular-2023-5-1-2023 .
MAY 13TH
Midtown Block Party
MIDTOWN PLAZA | 2:00 PM
Head to Midtown Plaza from 2 –6:00 p.m. to enjoy a special movie, DJ entertainment, balloon art, a strolling magician, giveaways and more. Be sure to visit local restaurants for refreshing drinks, snacks and meals. Grab a seat on the patio and enjoy the FREE festivities or get carryout and eat at the plaza. Visit MidtownPlazaCarmel.com to learn more.
MAY 15TH
Books After Lunch
CARMEL CLAY LIBRARY | 1:30 PM
Meeting the third Monday of each month, this casual group is led by a CCPL librarian. If you’re Interested in participating in or attending this group for the first time, want to see what’s on the reading list, or looking for a different book discussion, visit: https://carmelclaylibrary.org/ book-discussions . For more information, call the Adult Services Department at 317.844.3362 or email adultservices@carmelclaylibrary.org.
MAY 20TH
Indiana Peony Festival
SEMINARY PARK, NOBLESVILLE | 10:00 AM
From 10:00 am - 4:00 pm in historic downtown Noblesville, visitors can expect: peony judging, floral arranging, bouquet off, floral vendors, food trucks, art & fashion vendors, master gardeners and much more! The event is FREE and open to the public. Visitors can also enjoy a brunch crawl through downtown Noblesville, music, and promotions from local retailers. For more info: VisitHamiltonCounty.com/events
MAY 27TH
500 Festival Parade
DOWNTOWN INDIANAPOLIS | 11:30 AM
Join race fans around the world in downtown Indianapolis to experience the larger-than-life floats, giant helium balloons, celebrities and dignitaries, award-winning bands, and all 33 drivers competing in the Indy 500. This year’s parade is Saturday, May 27. Festivities start at 11:45 am, with the parade beginning at noon. For more about tickets and other parade day info, visit: 500festival.com/parade.
Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Carmel
Kiosk Stations · Full Bar Experience · Health-Specific Juices
Flat Screen TVs · USB Charging Stations · Built-In Laptop Areas
Our juice bartenders blend special ingredients to perfection to aid with common symptoms like gastritis, skin irritation, high blood pressure and more.
