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Dear Readers,
When I was a little girl, one of my favorite pastimes was playing dress-up. My grandmother, a gifted seamstress with magical hands, had an uncanny ability to bring my imagination to life. Whether I dreamed of a dazzling 1920s flapper dress or a playful 1950s poodle skirt, she could create it.
But there was one secret ingredient to her creative spark: The Sound of Music. Every time we watched Maria von Trapp fashioning clothes out of curtains, something stirred in my grandmother’s spirit — and off she went to her sewing machine. I knew if I wanted to see my latest fashion fantasy brought to life, all I had to do was suggest that film.
Those moments — filled with fabric, laughter and the hum of her sewing machine — remind me that style isn’t just about what we wear. It’s an expression of joy, imagination and authenticity. From the way we dress to how we decorate our homes, style is a lifelong love letter to who we truly are.
I’m thrilled to share this Style edition with you. From the unveiling of the newest public sculpture to picking out the perfect pair of earrings, from walking the runway to hanging out at your backyard fire pit, this issue celebrates the many ways our community showcases personal flair.
We hope these pages spark your own creativity and remind you that true style begins with being yourself. Be bold. Be brave. And most of all, be you
ANDREA KULSRUD, PUBLISHER @CARMEL.CITY.LIFESTYLE
September 2025
PUBLISHER
Andrea Kulsrud | andrea.kulsrud@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Amy Adams | amy.adams@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Julie Brown Patton | julie.patton@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Melvie Gonzales | melvie.gonzales@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Amy Adams
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Greg Kacinski, Vernon Jones, Vivien Khamis, Lydia Moody, Brianna Richardson Photography, David Ryan (Indy Business Promotions), Kelli White Photography
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 Kathy Nguyen
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
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Saturday, September 13
1 – 5 p.m. | Midtown Plaza
Engage, enlighten and celebrate the countries of Latin and Hispanic descent through a family friendly-festival full of culture, flavors and dance.
Saturday, September 20
6:30 – 9:30 p.m. | Midtown Plaza
Bring the whole family out to experience the
Dr.
From frames to footwear, this is your fall reset. Thursday, Sept. 4, from 6-7:30 p.m., two Carmel City Center businesses will host The Autumn Edit, an exclusive fashion plus eyewear event featuring seasonal picks from Fringe & Form and frame styling from Alternate View. Light bites and beverages will be served. RSVP to carmel@alternateview.com for the event at 750 Veterans Way, Ste. 228. Space is limited to the first 20 guests.
Pure Barre Westfield has opened in Union Square at Grand Junction Plaza at 170 Jersey Street, Ste. 188. Check out their Grand Opening Celebration Sept. 4-7 as the new location partners with other local businesses offering special deals, discounts, raffle prizes and more. And don’t miss out on the “Soft Opening” membership special good through Sept. 7. Learn more at PureBarre.com/location/ Westfield-IN.
Photography by Kelli White Photography
Whale of a Sale, central Indiana’s premier upscale kids consignment event, returns Sept. 11–14 to Grand Park Event Center in Westfield. Owned by two Carmel moms, this community favorite event features 850 local families selling high-quality kids clothing, toys, gear and more. From baby essentials to teen styles, shoppers will find top brands at unbeatable prices — all while supporting local families and shopping sustainably. Learn more at Whale-Sale.com
ARTICLE BY AMY ADAMS
When Gregory Hancock was a young boy, he came home one day telling his mother that he needed a costume for school. With great foresight, she sat him down at the sewing machine. That first costume has turned into thousands. As Hancock grew, exploring and expanding his talents in dance and music, the love of creating one-of-a-kind costumes became a passion.
Some of those costumes will take center stage for this month’s Second Annual Fashion at The Florence. Dancers will walk the runway in costumes that represent the unique style of Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre (GHDT), from the simple to the complex, with a multicultural flair. Last year’s creative take on a gala sold out.
“It was so successful, we’re moving forward with making it an annual event,” says Hancock, founder and executive artistic director of GHDT.
The fashion show will help fund production expenses for the upcoming 28th season of GHDT, which begins in October.
GHDT is the resident professional dance company of The Tarkington. As part of the contemporary company, GHDT dancers perform a wide variety of styles to cultivate a unique method of storytelling that comes from the creative mind of the man for whom the company is named.
“I didn’t really plan to start a company,” Hancock says. “It just happened out of an interest in the creative process. That was more interesting to me than dancing. From costumes to lighting, I’m one of those choreographers that has a complete vision of what my creations should look like.”
Not only has Hancock created and choreographed nearly 160 dance productions for the company, he has crafted or curated all the costumes for these performances. The fashion show gives Hancock an opportunity to talk about the inspiration for the costumes.
“Audiences find that fascinating,” he says. Also of interest to arts connoisseurs is the fact that Hancock has an unusual way of working.
“I don’t sketch,” he says. “I rarely do measurements. I combine patterns and just create costumes on my own.”
Whereas last year’s fashion selections showcased the costumes throughout the history of GHDT, this year’s features will preview costumes from the new season of productions, which run the gamut from The Pageant, a new comic piece about beauty pageants, to Exodus, a story of Biblical proportions set in a contemporary times.
Fashion at The Florence will take place in Carmel at 6:30 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 13, at 329 Gradle Dr., at The Florence, which is GHDT’s intimate black box theatre space lovingly named for Hancock’s mother.
Hancock has received numerous awards, including Master Artist Fellowships from the Indiana Arts Commission and two Creative Renewal Fellowships from the Arts Council of Indianapolis and Lilly Endowment. He was named outstanding choreographer at the prestigious Youth America Grand Prix international ballet competition in NYC. He received a Regional Emmy Award for the PBS broadcast of his original musical La Casa Azul, about the life of artist Frida Kahlo. In addition to serving as executive artistic director for the internationally acclaimed Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre, he also serves as director for The Academy of GHDT where he hopes to pass on his experience and expertise to a new generation of dancers. Discover more at GregoryHancockDanceTheatre.org .
Khamis-Rowe
ARTICLE BY AMY ADAMS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY VIVIEN KHAMIS
“When it comes to fine jewelry, you’re buying a future heirloom,” says Mary Khamis-Rowe, owner of Khamis Fine Jewelers.
That said, it’s helpful to know what’s popular when selecting jewelry that will last and be encouraging to wear again and again.
White gold is still a favorite, according to KhamisRowe, but she says her store has been selling more yellow gold. Gold chain is particularly popular in necklaces, bracelets and even rings. In addition, mixed metals are in high demand.
“Two metals that go well together will match any skin tone,” Khamis-Rowe says.
While stones are in demand, particularly any shade of blue, Khamis-Rowe says opals are especially hot this year. Pearls also are regaining popularity.
Layering necklaces is still on trend, as is stacking bracelets and even rings, especially pieces of different metals, featuring different stones or geometric shapes.
For earrings, Khamis-Rowe says that bigger is back and movement is key. “Anything with a dangle or fringe is popular,” she adds.
Then again, Khamis-Rowe acknowledges that the classic style of diamond studs is always a number one seller.
“Everybody’s different,” she says. “It’s all personal preference.”
Khamis-Rowe encourages everyone to go to a store and try on what they like. She says she always
listens to what her customers are saying and tries to help them find pieces that are unique and match their personalities.
“Jewelry should talk to you,” she says.
In addition to celebrating the store’s 30th anniversary this year, Khamis Fine Jewelers will be hosting its 17th Annual Opal Trunk Show on Saturday, Oct. 4, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with a sneak peak Friday, Oct. 3, from 4-6 p.m. Don’t miss one of the largest selections of opals in the Midwest.
1. “Classic meets modern” pearl strand paired with a 14K yellow gold diamond and pearl drop necklace.
2. Australian opal inlay ring in 14K yellow gold.
3. Diamond bracelets in yellow and white gold, perfect for stacking.
4. Sapphire and diamond drop earrings in 14K white gold.
5. Australian Boulder opal bezel set in 14K yellow gold and with diamond accent.
6. Layered necklaces featuring a yellow gold diamond bar necklace, rose cut diamond cluster necklace and a paperclip necklace with three diamond pave links.
LEARN MORE: Mary Khamis-Rowe began working in fine jewelry while she was in high school and has been in the industry ever since, opening her own store in 1995. In addition to having a business degree from Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, she is a Graduate Gemologist and past president of the Indiana Jewelers Association.
EXPERT TIPS ON STYLING YOUR NEXT FAMILY PHOTO SESSION
From pressure of picking out just-right outfits to finding the right window of time for everyone’s good mood, family photos that are meant to record precious memories can end up being overwhelming.
To lessen the stress for this type of photo session, Carmel City Lifestyle sought professional advice from the magazine's very own photographer, Brianna Richardson.
When people are choosing a photographer, Richardson encourages them to check out social media pages and photography websites to see if a photographer specializes in the type of photos they're wanting.
“Every photographer has their own composition and editing style,” she says.
Richardson also says that you should go with a photographer who you feel listens to your requests and with whom you feel comfortable communicating any concerns.
“Some people have specific spots in mind, such as their backyard or indoors,” Richardson says.
If they aren’t sure about a location, she always asks them whether they prefer rural or urban settings, buildings downtown or tall, grassy fields.
Once a good photographer knows what type of setting you prefer, they should be able to help you find just the right spot.
“If you see a photographer's work, and you love the golden glow, keep in mind that those sessions take place around sunset,” she says.
ARTICLE BY AMY ADAMS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRIANNA RICHARDSON PHOTOGRAPHY
That time may or may not work out for your family or your photographer.
Richardson iterates that photos at any time of the day can be beautiful, they just have different aesthetics.
“Neutrals always photograph beautifully regardless of the backdrop,” Richardson says.
It’s also easy to coordinate the whole family when the color palette is neutral. Richardson stresses the word “coordinate,” rather than match, encouraging clients to dress the kids in different outfits.
Richardson also advises families to add some texture. For example, if everyone is wearing solids, dress one person in stripes.
“Textured fabric gives the photographs dimension and ‘flavor,’” she says.
Most importantly, Richardson stresses that it's always important to do what makes one feel confident and comfortable. “Some clients prefer bright colors, and if that's their jam, go for it,” she says.
“I tell my clients that pets are part of your family and should always have the opportunity to be included in a family session,” Richardson says.
However, she encourages people to verify ahead of time that their photographer is OK with including pets in some of the photos.
Richardson’s ultimate advice is to throw all expectations out the window and let go of perfection.
“Show up as you authentically are and plan on interacting with your family members as if you are dancing in your living room together on a random Tuesday night,” she says. “Do not overthink it. Do not stress if your child isn't in the best spirits or if the wardrobe didn't go as planned. I promise you will have special photos to look back on and cherish. Interacting with your children always makes gorgeous photos, regardless of their moods. That's the key to making authentic memories.”
“Show up as you authentically are and plan on interacting with your family members as if you are dancing in your living room together on a random Tuesday night.”
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ARTICLE BY AMY ADAMS PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY CITY OF CARMEL
Carmel officials recently dedicated the city's newest roundabout sculpture at Main Street and Richland Avenue, featuring colorful books swirling and stretching toward the sky,
“‘Taking Flight’ joins our distinguished collection of public art, further cementing Carmel’s reputation as a city where creativity and culture flourish at every turn,” Mayor Sue Finkam says. “How perfectly fitting that this sculpture stands as a gateway between the Carmel Clay Public Library and Carmel High School, two pillars of learning that have shaped countless minds in our community.”
More than a sculpture, Finkam says that “Taking Flight” celebrates the intersection of art, education and community spirit that defines Carmel.
The 20-foot tall sculpture was designed by Jason Klimoski of the award-winning, New York-based STUDIOKCA, which is also responsible for internationally iconic sculptures such as “Skyscraper (The Bruges Whale.)” Fabricated of twisting aluminum and steel, “Taking Flight” took a team of 10 artists a year to complete. It incorporates 125 individually laser-cut books, each containing a quotation.
Klimoski says the process of selecting just the right books and quotes for the project took months.
“We tried our best to find authors who either lived or worked in Indiana,” he says. “All of the books talk about the importance of the library and learning. Between the school and the library, that felt like the right path.”
Quoting writers from Aristotle to Vonnegut, each book also contains LED lighting intended to illuminate minds as it illuminates Carmel’s evening landscape.
“The light from inside the books escapes through the words and spills out across the pages so that it looks like the magic is inside the book,” Klimoski explains. “We think of the words as letting the light out.”
In addition to inspiring young people to higher levels of learning, Klimoski hopes students will be inspired by the structure itself.
“If you can see it, you can build almost anything,” he says.
Klimoski says he's pleased with how the sculpture ties the spaces between the library and high school together. At the same time, “Taking Flight” also provides a stunning entrance to the Carmel Arts & Design District.
“If we’re going to make the City of Carmel both a tourism destination and a great neighborhood, public art has to permeate it,” says Henry Mestetsky, executive director of the Carmel Redevelopment Commission.
Mestetsky describes Carmel’s unique style as “bestin-class urban walkability happening at the center of a world-class suburb.”
From tree-lined neighborhoods to its walkable core, from Midtown Plaza to the Monon Trail, Mestetsky says Carmel attracts a creative set of people who see the amenities the city has to offer and want to invest in the community.
“We try to offer our residents and visitors the best of every experience,” he says. "So many people move here because they recognize the amenities we have."
While Mestetsky acknowledges that it's tough for a city to set itself apart in mid-America, he says Carmel has consistently “punched above its weight,” being nationally recognized for a long time.
“‘Taking Flight’” joins our distinguished collection of public art, further cementing Carmel’s reputation as a city where creativity and culture flourish at every turn.”
“As a city, we're building our own unique identity, which separates us from the other suburbs and towns across this country,” he says.
The launch of “Taking Flight” coincides with Carmel’s recent rebranding and the implementation of the slogan “Built for Big Dreams.”
“We’re in our building phase,” Mestetsky says. “This is a growth moment. It plays to both what the city is cultivating and what it’s attracting.”
“Every time residents and visitors pass through this roundabout,” Finkam concludes, “they’ll be reminded that Carmel is a place where we encourage all our residents and visitors to be inspired and to let their dreams take flight.”
www.houseofcolour.com
Country Gardens Shares How to Bring Ambiance to Outdoor Living Spaces
ARTICLE BY AMY ADAMS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRIANNA RICHARDSON PHOTOGRAPHY
The days are getting shorter. The nights are getting cooler. It’s the time of year that beckons to get together outdoors with family and friends.
“You don’t just want to stick a patio in the backyard. You want to have a livable space.”
“When you have people over on a cool fall evening, a fire feature really draws people in,” says Steve Tillman, owner and lead designer for Country Gardens Lawn & Landscape. “It’s a gathering space for conversation.”
Tillman says that approximately 80 percent of the projects Country Gardens takes on include some sort of fire feature.
“It’s an element that everybody wants,” he says. “They want the ambiance.”
So, what are the big outdoor fire feature trends right now? That’s a question Tillman gets asked a lot. “Fire tables and fire bowls are popular,” he says. “Longer, more linear fireplaces and firepits are in. Everybody wants that modern look.”
Tillman says people really want their fire element to stand out, so they're choosing materials such as stucco, veneer stone and even custom-wrapped steel.
While cozy, sunken fire pits are making a comeback, another big trend is portable units that can be moved around depending on the number of guests or entertaining needs.
However, in addition to what fire features look like, people are becoming more conscious of what’s going into the fire. While there are shifts to cleaner burning propane and natural gas, many still love the sound and smell of a wood-burning fire. Following are several options to consider.
Gas burning fire features are easy to start, low maintenance and less mess in the long run. If you would like a fire feature with a variety of options where you can adjust the flame, a gas burning fire may be the right fit.
CONTINUED >
“At the design meeting, we listen to their wants and needs. We want to understand what they’re going to be using the space for.”
An outdoor electric fireplace offers a flame-like feature that looks real with very little maintenance. Low cost, they can be plugged into an outlet and enjoyed through all the seasons. Then, when you're ready to go indoors, turn the fire off with just a switch.
The smell of wood burning and the sound of it crackling are just two reasons these traditional fire features are so popular. There’s just nothing quite like it to roast hot dogs or s’mores. Just throw a few logs on the fire, light it and it's all set within minutes.
When it comes to fire features and other hardscape and landscape elements, even more than what’s in style, Tillman encourages his clients to consider size, usage, kids, pets, privacy and more. “We look at each client individually,” Tillman says. “At the design meeting, we listen to their wants and needs. We want to understand what they’re going to be using the space for.”
The chef in the family may want an outdoor kitchen. Others may want a gathering space with a fireplace where they can relax and watch TV.
A lot of homes now are built with lanais, a covered area built off of the living room or bedroom. “That’s kind of the first place people go on a spring morning or a fall evening,” Tillman says. “Blending that space into the outdoor living space with similar materials and colors is a lot of what we do. You don’t just want to stick a patio in the backyard. You want to have a livable space.”
From pool projects to pergolas, custom decks to synthetic turf and more, Country Gardens can take care of hardscaping and softscaping needs.
With more than 25 years of experience in lawn and landscaping, Steve Tillman, Country Gardens owner and landscape designer, has written a book on how to run a landscape company today. Taking a humorous outlook on issues like tight margins and problematic customers, Steve shares honest advice about what it really takes to build, grow and survive in the landscape industry. The Landscape Steward is a perfect guide for anyone running a business, whether you’re a start-up landscape business or just an entrepreneur dreaming of owning your own outdoor company. Look for it in January on Amazon and check out CountryGardensLandscaping.com
SEPTEMBER 6TH
Artomobilia/Carmel on Canvas
Carmel Arts & Design District and Midtown | 11:00 AM
In its 18th year, Artomobilia brings together one of the most eclectic gatherings of car collectors and automotive enthusiasts featuring original, period-correct cars. This year, the event welcomes Carmel on Canvas for the weekend, where plein air artists will bring the "art" to Artomobilia. Find out more at Artomobilia.org.
SEPTEMBER 7TH-28TH
Concerts in the Centerpiece
Coxhall Gardens | 5:00 PM
Every Sunday in September, bring lawn chairs or spread a blanket in Coxhall Gardens’ iconic amphitheater and be treated to four special performances. Catch 45 RPM on Sept. 7; Toy Factory on Sept. 14; Stella Luna and the Satellites on Sept. 21; and Rodney Stepp on Sept. 28.
SEPTEMBER 11TH
Carmel Clay Veterans Memorial | 8:30 AM
Join the Carmel Fire Department in remembering those who lost their lives and those who gave their lives helping save others on Sept. 11, 2001. Also find the event on Facebook Live.
SEPTEMBER 20TH
Chinese Mooncake Festival
1 Civic Square | 6:30 PM
Bring the whole family out to experience the culture and traditions of China right in the neighborhood. There will be a dragon parade, traditional dancing and music and, of course, Chinese Mooncakes.
SEPTEMBER 21ST
Carmel Porchfest
Carmel Arts & Design District | 12:00 PM
Close to 60 bands will be performing on approximately 20 porches from noon to 6 p.m. Add food and beverage vendors, and it's the perfect festival vibe. Family-friendly and free to attend, Carmel PorchFest offers something that is sure to please everyone. Learn more at CarmelPorchFest.org
SEPTEMBER 27TH & 28TH
Carmel International Arts Festival
Carmel Arts & Design District | 11:00 AM
This two-day event brings in more than 100 artists in nine different mediums to be judged at the festival with awards issued to artists and providing the finest works for guests to purchase. Additionally, several financial scholarships will be awarded to local high school students based on artwork submitted to the student art show. Visit CarmelArtsFestival.org for more.
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