Clayton, MO September 2023

Style

ARTS + CULTURE FAITH BERGER CREATES DIMENSIONS IN ART

STYLE + BEAUTY MŌSHN IN MOTION

HOME + DESIGN CREATING A TIMELESS ARTISTIC VISION

S M I L E C A R E F O R T H E E N T I R E F A M I L Y

GROWTH MONITORING

Early evaluations, which occur while baby teeth are still present, allow Dr. Erin to monitor jaw growth and tooth eruption as well as identify potential harmful habits that may affect facial and tooth development

Catching issues early can shorten treatment length and reduce the chance of severe issues down the road

INVISALIGN + BRACES

Deciding you are ready to transform your smile is a big step and accomplishment in itself. The next decision is selecting the best way for you to do it

We offer it all from Invisalign to classic silver braces, champagne tone and clear Choose what style works best for you. We want you to be obsessed with your smile and love the journey getting there

CONFIDENT SMILES

Smile confidently at every age with Dr Erin's unique, individualized, comprehensive approach to smile care.

Our patient-centric, aesthetic-forward mantra along with our exclusive comfort amenities revolutionize orthodontics so you feel at home in the studio. Patients of this practice are more than our patients–they are our family

Style

I hope this letter reaches you in wonderful spirits, brimming with creative energy and your desired style.

Today, let's celebrate and delve into the captivating realm of style—a realm that extends far beyond the clothes we wear or the way we adorn ourselves. Style weaves itself into every facet of our lives. It's evident in the way we decorate our homes, the music that resonates with us, the books we immerse ourselves in, and even how we engage in conversations. It's a pervasive thread that enriches the tapestry of our existence.

Style is an intimately personal expression that evolves as we embrace our quirks, passions, and desires. It acts as a powerful means of self-expression, communicating our true selves, our perspectives on the world, and our deeply held values. In this way, style becomes a potent instrument for connection, fostering bonds with like-minded individuals who share our aesthetic sensibilities.

As individuals, we possess the freedom to embrace established styles, blend them harmoniously, or forge entirely new paths, becoming the pioneers of tomorrow's trends. Let this issue inspire you to explore new horizons or rediscover familiar ones, for there is an abundance of uplifting experiences awaiting us in Clayton, ready to invigorate our spirits, boost our productivity, and ignite our creativity.

I have come to realize that the most exceptional style is an authentic reflection of your true self, an expression so unique that it cannot be replicated by anyone else on Earth.

So, here's to embracing your individuality and celebrating the beautiful tapestry of style that makes you uniquely you!

September 2023

PUBLISHERS

Gordon Montgomery gordon.montgomery@citylifestyle.com

Kelley Lamm kelley.lamm@citylifestyle.com

COPY EDITOR

Julie Brown Patton | julie.patton@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Casey Pierce | casey.pierce@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Julie Brown Patton, Kara Savio, Robin Seaton Jefferson, Angela Broockerd, Bailey Morris

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Luis Marti Photography, Sophie Berger, Carol Green, Jonathon Pollack, Janie Jones

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman

GORDON AND KELLEY, PUBLISHERS @CLAYTONCITYLIFESTYLEMAG

LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray

Original, yet timeless. Edgy, yet sophisticated. Modern, yet classic.

city scene

1: Amy Reckert, US veteran, became a Clayton police officer. She serves in Army National Guard. 2: Candle Fusion Studio is new retail/15th tenant at City Foundry STL; candles, lotions, wax tarts. 3: Sarah Croy, Mid-County Inclusion Services coordinator for Clayton, Webster, Maryland Heights and Richmond Heights. 4: Kathleen “Kitty” Ratcliffe, president, Explore St. Louis and America’s Center Convention Complex, recognized. 5: Valerie Egel, Clayton Parks&Rec administration superintendent, has been with the city for 18 years. 6: Meet Westport Playhouse owner Lenny Mink as HOTLIST guest on IYCS. 7: Julie Ettinger, owner of YLANG YLANG, was a HOTLIST guest on IN YOUR CITY Shot

LUIS MARTI PHOTOGRAPHY

COURTESY CITY OF CLAYTON

COURTESY CITY OF CLAYTON

CASEY PIERCE

CASEY PIERCE

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

exciting news from local businesses.

Glennon Polo Gallop: SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Fundraiser

Join others to raise funds for The Danis Pediatric Center at SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital by attending a polo match on Sept.16 at August Busch Polo Club, 4020 Benne Road in Defiance. The event will feature a VIP Experience and the Field Side Party. Both options include the polo match and an opportunity to make life-saving health care available to children who may not otherwise have access. Register online at Glennon.org/Gallop

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Clayton

Photography Julie Brown Patton

Women Of Year Honored

Greater Missouri Leadership Foundation, a statewide nonprofit leadership organization, honored four women at the annual Women of the Year luncheon. The event recognizes the achievements of Missouri women leaders who make an impact locally, statewide and beyond. (Left to right): Katie Steele Danner, Dr. LaTonia Collins Smith, The Honorable Jean Carnahan, Maxine Clark, Sandra M. Moore, Sara Foster, Rosalind Cochran.

2023 Road To The Big Raffle Underway At TNMOT

The 2023 Road to the Big Raffle at The National Museum of Transportation commences, with winner drawings beginning Sept 18 and ending Sept. 24. Get two Museum admission tickets (a $30 value) with every raffle ticket transaction, and be entered to win prizes, including a 1931 Series 60 Buick and the chance to drive the Chrysler Turbine Car. Tickets on sale at TNMOT.org . Pictured here is last year's winner of a 1924 Ford Model T.

Let the Jeff Lottmann Group be your compass with 20 + year experience we will guide you through all your real estate needs.

28th Annual Businessmen’s Prayer Breakfast of Saint Charles County

Wednesday September 6, 2023

7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

Saint Charles Convention Center

1 Convention Center Plaza, Saint Charles, MO 63303

With four World Series titles, Darryl is described as a legend. Extremely successful in his career, his personal life was plagued with addictions, abuse, divorces, cancer, jail -time and other issues.

Darryl finally found true redemption and restoration in Jesus Christ.

Today, Darryl's purpose and passion is serving the Lord Jesus Christ and helping others transform their lives through the power of the gospel. Darryl travels the country speaking and bringing a message of hope and restoration in Christ.

Strawberry

Tickets: $30 Each / Table of 10: $300 Purchase Tickets Online: www.ministrytomen.net OR

Mail Check Payable To: Ministry to Men P.O. Box 1041, St. Peters, MO 63376

Darryl

DECLUTTERING TO CHANGE LIFE

Do you start your morning digging through a pile of clothes to find just the right shirt you want to wear that day? When you’re ready to leave the house, is it a struggle to locate your keys under the mound of items stacked on your kitchen counter? If you can relate to these scenarios, you're not alone. Clutter plays a major role in our lives, but many people don’t realize its impact on mental health. For the last six years, Lisa Dickmann, owner of Tidy Upgrade, LLC , has been helping St. Louisans simplify their lives.

“I was one of those people that needed help, and I think the best kind of organizer to have is somebody who's been there before and can identify with what that feels like to struggle in my own life,” says Lisa.

She was homeschooling her children and finding no joy in it. Things weren't good until the day she picked up a book called The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo. It would change her life.

“I thought this method was amazing and sounded like nothing I'd ever read. This concept of things sparking joy just resonated with me, so I gave it a try in my own home, then got certified and started working with clients,” Lisa recalls.

She went on to become Missouri’s first and only certified KonMari Consultant, determined to make sure everything her clients own brings them joy. Lisa believes having too much stuff holds people back.

Lisa explains, “Whether they’re things from a past relationship, a current divorce, or the loss of a loved one, learning to keep only what brings them joy and letting go of the rest, that's what this process is all about.”

Lisa does say becoming a professional organizer is not for everyone.

“An important skill of the organizer is empathy, being attuned to people's emotions,” she says. "I have a master's degree in counseling, so I'm utilizing my counseling skills from the moment I walk into the room."

She calls what she does “home therapy” and says tidying up can heal other things beyond just the mess in a home.

“It's amazing," Lisa says. “When people work with me, they tend to become mindful shoppers and only bring home what they really need.”

ARTICLE BY KARA SAVIO

REMOVE TRASH

She stresses getting started is the hardest part and recommends setting aside the time to get it done quickly. Lisa uses the category approach with her clients and taps into their intuition, accessing how they feel about certain items.

ORGANIZE SMALL AREA

SIMPLE

WAYS TO DECLUTTER

Start the overall process by being sure to remove trash.

Choose one small area to organize, such as a drawer, and be inspired by it.

LISA DICKMANN: HELPING ST. LOUISANS TIDY UP AND SIMPLIFY THEIR LIVES

Photo by Jonathon Pollack

Lisa explains, “Every person has an amount of stuff that feels right for them. What’s right for one person might be four pairs of shoes; for another person, it might be 400 pairs of shoes. What I do is help them find the right amount that fits in their space comfortably and help them let go of what doesn't.”

She says she starts with clothing, which is the easiest category because if you make a mistake, clothes are easily replaced. She then subdivides, for instance, the number of shirts the client has versus how many they really need. If something is weighing them down, she says it's time to let it go.

"I feel so grateful to Marie Kondo. I was able to meet her in person and thank her, and I literally feel like she saved my life," Lisa reflects.

314.635.TIDY (8439) TidyUpgrade.com

THREE PILES

Sort items being reorganized into three piles: Keep, donate or toss.

FIND SPECIFIC SPACE

Find a specific ‘home’ for everything that’s intended to keep, for example, a hook for keys.

LISA DICKMANN

Lisa Dickmann is a professional organizer, owner of Tidy Upgrade, LLC, and Missouri’s only certified KonMari Consultant. She believes the KonMari Method is the most effective, life-changing method for transforming living spaces. Lisa is also a mom to four children on Earth and one angel in Heaven.

“I ABSOLUTELY LOVE WHAT I DO, AND I WANT TO SEE OTHER PEOPLE DOING WHAT THEY LOVE TO DO ALSO, WHATEVER THAT IS.”

Photography by Brea

Photo by Jonathon Pollack

MARKETING, ADVERTISING, CORPORATE COMMUNICATION AND TRAINING VIDEOS

We offer Full Service Corporate and Commercial video solutions. Besides our world class studios located in St. Louis, we bring expert video production to you with our talented crew. We can capture everything you need in the field, in your offices, or at your retail or service location. You name it, we can do it! Plus, we offer professional lighting, sound, and editing to all of our clients.

ELEVATE YOUR MESSAGE, YOUR BRAND AND YOUR EVENT WITH

VUE 17 & OUTREACH STUDIOS

REHEARSAL

FROM LADY GAGA TO THE KENTUCKY DERBY, DIANNE ISBELL TOPS THEM ALL

HATS BY DI-ANNE

ARTICLE BY ROBIN SEATON JEFFERSON PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Dianne Isbell’s one-of-a-kind designs have been featured in too many area fashion shows to count. The owner of HATS by DI-Anne, she has won awards too numerous to list, including the 2011 New York Fall Fashion Week Diet Coke Contest. Her designs also were selected for a year-long display in the Kentucky Derby Hat Museum at Churchill Downs, where she was selected as featured milliner in 2020-2021.

Still, she says with all of her awards and recognitions, she is “most proud of growing up on a farm, going to a one-room school for three grades and receiving my master's degree.”

About her successes, Dianne says: “I honestly never thought I couldn't accomplish what I have accomplished—I just did it.”

“I recently found a photo of me at 8 years old, and on the back, it stated: ‘Dianne made this dress all by herself from an old slip of her mother’s and a nylon stocking for a belt,’" Dianne says. “I was already into fashion then.”

It was about that time that she says her grandma taught her how to crochet and embroider. “My mom and grandma were both excellent seamstresses. They taught me how to sew with a little crank sewing machine.”

It was the knowledge gleaned from them that would prove invaluable when Dianne began designing hats. “I think this is where I learned one of the mottos I live by: ‘Anything worth doing is worth doing right,’ to which I have added, ‘Or don't do it at all.’”

Dianne taught herself how to type on a typewriter her mother had purchased and studied English, college-prep classes, shorthand and business in high school, so she could work as a secretary to put herself through college.

While working full time at Scott Air Force Base, and taking evening and weekend classes, Dianne earned her bachelor’s degree in social psychology—graduating Summa Cum Laude—and her master’s degree in business management. She worked in the Military Airlift Command at Scott Air Force Base, Illinois, finishing as the director of Protocol for the Air Force Communications Service (AFCS), reporting to a two-star Air Force General and having a secretary and a five military member staff of her own.

After 26 years of civil service, Dianne started her first business, Etiquette Plus, teaching a six-week course to kids on the rules of etiquette. Soon she taught all types of manners and protocol to all ages in all walks of life, including CEOs and presidents of companies, from table manners and proper posture to respect and dignity. For 36 years, she’s written an etiquette column for the Belleville News Democrat CONTINUED >

“I THINK THIS IS WHERE I LEARNED ONE OF THE MOTTOS I LIVE BY: ‘ANYTHING WORTH DOING IS WORTH DOING RIGHT,’ TO WHICH I HAVE ADDED, ‘OR DON’T DO IT AT ALL.’”

Dianne

As she built her business, Dianne garnered three more promotions, for a total of 11 throughout her career at Scott, as well as being selected for a spot in the Department of Defense’s prestigious year-long Executive Leadership Development Program, which included actual military training such as parachute jumping and driving a tank at Fort Bragg.

In January 2001, Dianne, though only 55, retired. She was immediately offered a job in Washington, DC, with a high-level communications corporation.

In June, a girlfriend introduced her to a widowed, former Army officer and Green Beret. “We had our first date in August, and then 9/11 hit in September,” she says. “I realized I could have been at a meeting in the Pentagon that day, if I had already moved to DC. I decided life was too short, declined the position, and married the Green Beret the following year.”

She continued her etiquette classes and teas for little girls but added fancy dresses, purses, boas, gloves, jewelry and created special Victoriantype hats.

Her older sister saw some of the hats and asked if she would create one for her to wear at her Red Hat Society outings. Soon Dianne was creating one-of-a-kind hats for Society ladies all over; and her designs—red, purple, pink and lavender—were in boutiques from Springfield, Illinois, to Springfield, Missouri, to Denver, Colorado.

Dianne then met a lady who wanted to carry her designs in her boutique in all of the Society colors and then some. “This was a turning point in my business, because when you add a color, you must add all the trims, feathers, flowers, veiling and millinery fabrics in that color to create the designs.”

TODAY, AS ALWAYS, SHE “LIVES FOR THE LOOK ON MY CLIENTS’ FACES, WHEN THEY PUT ON ONE OF MY DESIGNS AND LOOK IN THE MIRROR. IT’S AN INSTANT: ‘I FEEL BEAUTIFUL’ LOOK!’”

Today, as always, she “lives for the look on my clients' faces, when they put on one of my designs and look in the mirror. It’s an instant: ‘I feel beautiful’ look!'”

Dianne created three designs for Lady Gaga’s "Fame" perfume rollout and several designs for William H.T. “Bucky” Bush’s wife, Patty Bush. She also designed or gifted hats and fascinators for and to Karlie Kloss of "Project Runway;" Belgian designer, Diane von Furstenberg; and NBC co-anchors, Hoda Kotb and Jenna Bush.

Dianne meets with clients in her home studio or in clients' homes by appointment. She also conducts many trunk shows and pop-ups every year at various boutiques in cities across the United States.

She says she is thrilled to see a resurgence of hats, old and new, such as the women’s fedora and the cloche. Besides staying very busy creating designs for the Kentucky Derby and the Ascot Races, where fascinators, perchers and hatinators are now becoming more popular than hats, “there are many vintage car clubs where women wear hats designed to match the era of the cars.”

It’s also becoming more fashionable for men to wear a hat, bow tie or pocket square to match or complement the color of their lady’s hat or fascinator.

hatsbydianne@gmail.com

618.978.2150

Facebook/Instagram: Dianne Isbell or HATS by DI-Anne

Dimensions In Art

Faith Berger Creates Stylish, No-Two-Alike Pieces

ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON

As a lifestyle designer and expressive painter in acrylic, oil and mixed medium collage, St. Louis-based artist Faith Berger takes inspirations from the world to create intriguing artwork and a brand of aspiring interior accents.

Extrapolating from 30 years experience as a gallerist and deft at art planning, she says her painting is a natural transition from all she’s learned from hundreds of artists. Her intense study in design, art glass, sculpture and painting and theory behind art imbues her desire to create.

Faith says she's learned from, and continues to be inspired by, one of her own nuggets of wisdom realized later in life: "Don’t be afraid to go for it. Don’t be shy! Experiment with your ideas."

The new Faith Berger Linen Line was recently showcased at Hearth and Soul in Clayton, demonstrating that her artwork complements all types of spaces. In fact, she says she's working on some original pieces to exhibit at the B'nai Amoona Art Gallery, which will be a handful of individual pieces that display together as 16 feet of artwork when assembled.

Additionally, she produced a series of 250 original Faith Berger Design greeting cards with a contemporary spin that's high-quality and sophisticated. A box comes with five handpainted greeting cards for $95, each unique in its own way. "These one-of-a-kind cards are perfect for your special occasions, and also are one way to review my designs, which can be applied to other decor options, such as wall coverings," Faith says.

Over time, Faith has evolved into more of a full-service interior designer for offices or homes, weaving in her own artwork matched to clients' tastes and preferences.

The St. Louis native artist recently launched a collection of rugs in collaboration with Valentina Casale, owner of The Art Rug, a premier rug manufacturer based in Puebla, Mexico. Based on Faith's paintings, the handmade floor coverings can be custom-ordered to fit any size or shape of room. The stain-resistant rugs are hand-tufted using yarn made from 100 percent New Zealand wool and dyed in The Art Rug’s facility in Mexico. They are created to last 20 to 30 years. "The beauty of this collaboration is that the designs can be made into a circular or an abstract pattern, which makes it easier for consumers to adapt them to their homes,” Faith explains.

Faith also is an art consultant through a business she founded in 2007, Faith Berger Art Consultants. As a full-service art planning firm, she says she applies her bevy of artists to develop concepts and turn them into client solutions. "From implementation to handling, delivery and installation, the best art result happens when thoroughly considered and thought out by us," she adds.

Faith Berger Art Consultants assisted entities include Crescent, Meadowbrook Country Club, Pricewaterhouse Coopers, LuxcoSpirited  Brands, DHR International, Enterprise Bank and Trust, the 1015 Locust Building, Moneta Group and Parkview.

Faith serves as CEO of 652 Moderne Art Consultants, and works with other local interior designers as they execute their clients' customized projects, too. She owned and operated Barucci Gallery in Clayton for more than 27 years. Her mother, artist Shirley Taxman Schwartz, a buyer, frame designer and restoration expert, had purchased the gallery in 1987. Barucci is often credited with bringing the “American Studio Glass Movement” to St. Louis and featured many national and international artists, such as Romero Britto, Dale Chihuly, Robert Morris, Grant Miller and Toland Sand. Before the gallery closed in 2011, it was named one of the country’s Top 100 Galleries for 15 years and, for 10 of those, one of the Top 10 Galleries by Buyers of American Craft Group.

Faith often serves as an ambassador of the St. Louis art scene, even judging the 2022 St. Louis Art Fair. "St. Louis, and particularly Clayton, is blessed to have so many wonderful interior designers and artists," she states.

One of Faith's favorite collaborative efforts was the creation of the Clayton Triangle to promote art and boutiques at the intersection of Maryland Avenue and Brentwood Boulevard in Clayton. This project earned her the Clayton Chamber of Commerce's Retailer of the Year Award.

314.550.5920

FaithBerger.com

“From implementation to handling, delivery and installation, the best art result happens when thoroughly considered and thought out by Faith Berger Art Consultants,” says owner and artist Faith Berger.”

Providing orthodontic services including traditional braces, clear braces and Invisalign for families in our surrounding communities for over 25 years.

DR. NISSEN is Board Certified through the American Board of Orthodontics and specializes in the care for Cleft Lip/Palate and Craniofacial patients.

orthostlouis.com // orthostlouis // orthodonticconsultants

OFFICE HOURS

Monday-Thursday 7:45am - 5:00pm | Select Saturdays 8:00am - 12:30pm

CONVENIENTLY LOCATED AT 31 The Boulevard Saint Louis, St. Louis, Missouri 63117

CALL FOR A COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION (314) 727-6162

MŌSHN IN MOTION

absorption and superior energy return. "It's about providing comfort that outlasts anyone's everyday activity," she states.

Victoria says Dynamic Motion Technology offers heel stability, and customers often share they see improved posture after wearing. "Our shoes support joint care and overall foot health, which is too often overlooked until it’s too late.”

SECURE STYLISH,

SEXY AND COMFORTABLE SHOES FOR WOMEN CONSTANTLY ON THE MOVE

Style matters when it comes to shoes but many consider comfort a must! Footwear intentionally geared to skip typical breaking-in periods is available through the fashionable yet functional brand aptly named 'mōshn.'

ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

"By applying a curved Dynamic Motion Technology outsole that matches the natural movement of her feet, we created a new type of shoe to help women move with ease throughout their day," explains mōshn marketing director Victoria Feldman.

“As my holy grail with three young kids, this is my go-to shoe,” she promises, stating it helps wearers to move effortlessly from work, lunch dates, running errands, kids sports and fur baby walks, all in one 24-hour period.

Made by family-owned and Sullivan headquartered company Latitudes, best known for their comfortable brand KLOGS footwear popular among health care and hospitality professionals, Victoria says they applied the same technology for women on-the-go. The shoes' outsoles and footbeds are made with a proprietary polyurethane formula that provides exceptional shock

All styles in the mōshn line are made from a material called SmartKnit, which is a stain- and water-resistant material that's also machine washable; this allows shoes to be kept fresh, even when wearing them without socks.

According to recent Heeluxe footwear lab research, Victoria says mōshn shoes' comfort is holding up three to five times more than other popular sneakers in the market. "Our shoe doesn't compress or wear down over time, so the comfort you feel when you first try them on is the same as the one-thousandth time you wear them."

Victoria says this line features great recovery shoes to slip on after exhausting workout classes such as spin, yoga or pilates.

To broaden awareness, the mōshn team partners with other St. Louis regional businesses, such as fitness and yoga-based studios. They also recently teamed up with Narwahl's Crafted, a chic cocktail lounge with frozen and specialty drinks, to provide 'Shoes and Booze' for Nurses Week.

"All of our styles were created to make our customers' days easier. We want to help lighten their load and keep them moving forward," Victoria assures.

Even the names of the product line subcategories of mōshn shoes reflect active lifestyles:  Leap (a tailored oxford), Rhythm, Pulse (both traditional sneaker styles), Vigor (the heavy hitter), and Rise (great for transitional seasons). The company's mantra is "live life forward" and the shoes are made purposefully for "the makers and the doers." As one mōshn customer,

Melissa Mroz, stated: "I’m a mom and teacher always on-the-go. I love the arch support they provide. It’s like a little foot massage all day long. Highly recommend!!"

Customer and registered nurse Jenna Feldmann said her mōshn shoes are the most comfortable pair she'd ever had. "I work in a procedure area so I am on my feet standing and walking all day; these shoes are so light and supportive that my feet don’t feel the fatigue I’ve had with other shoes. When I first tried them on, they felt different than what I was used to, but after wearing them for a few minutes, I could definitely feel how much more comfortable and supportive they are. These shoes are definitely worth it."

After launching the mōshn line during March 2022 as a shoe that propels wearers forward literally and figuratively, Victoria says the company's team members are often told by customers that these shoes put more pep in their step.

888.388.5564

ShopMoshn.com

Jet Linx is the only private jet operator to receive ARGUS Platinum Elite, WYVERN Wingman PRO, and IS-BAO Stage 3 safety ratings. Experience Five-Star service and the highest standard of safety each and every flight from your luxury private terminal at St. Louis Lambert International Airport.

Creating A Timeless Artistic Vision

ARTICLE BY ROBIN SEATON JEFFERSON

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CAROL GREEN THE GRACEFUL LENS

Nettie White Interiors & The Porch In Wildwood Mastering Home Elegance

"I want to live here." It’s what many say when they walk through the front door of The Porch in Wildwood, a 200-year-old building that’s been fully renovated as a home décor store and headquarters of Nettie White Interiors, an artistic finishing and design company.

Nettie White started Nettie White Interiors 25 years ago in her basement with one little table and a paint brush that dangled from a nail her husband had hung on the wall. “I started with

artistic finishing of walls, but I wanted to make it dimensional. So, for the first seven years most of my business was wall work, but then I became obsessed with kitchen cabinetry. So, I began educating myself, reading and learning. I was one of the first people to paint kitchen cabinetry in St. Louis.”

Nettie purchased the building in 2008 and The Porch was born. “I wanted everyone to see what can be done with beautiful

finishes and unique home décor with a European flair. I want people to feel at home.”

The always-changing front steps of the store, painted seasonally with plaids and currently showcasing a hand-painted cheetah pattern, welcome shoppers into the 4,700-square-foot, multi-space store and design studio with a cozy stone fireplace, rooms filled with sofas, tables, Libeco Belgian linens, beautiful

rich bedding and etched dining and barware. The Porch offers timeless, and elegant home furnishings, accessories, lighting, tableware, gifts, clothing and jewelry.

“We recently extended the store out onto the back porch with an alfresco Mediterranean-style dining area with hanging lights, a large pergola, and firepit seating,” Nettie says on a tour of the building. “We are always changing and reinventing ourselves, in both businesses. Whether it’s from the look of the store or the style of design we offer. It’s how we stay relevant.”

But it’s Nettie White Interiors that sets the look of The Porch. “There is no detail left undone,” she says. “This is all so people can see what can be done with finishes.”

The walls, the floors, the ceiling, and everything in-between reflect the heart and soul of Nettie and the artistic finishing company that she created more than two decades ago. It’s a spectacular place where clients can not only shop for treasures for their home but meet with Nettie and her staff to plan their own personal custom projects.

Nettie White Interiors offers full kitchen design and remodeling, artistic finishes, furniture placement, color selection and accessorizing. But most importantly, she offers her unparalleled talent for creating beautiful spaces as well as the design and painting skills she has honed since 1998.

Nettie’s approach to the remodeling process is viewed as unique in that everything is considered with the whole picture in mind. Pieces and colors are not chosen individually. She says she looks at everything from the coloring of countertops, to the flooring, to the backsplash before she makes the custom cabinet finishes, which are never the same for two clients. “Custom finishes and colors are part of what sets us apart from other companies.”

She not only plans someone’s space, but she also distinguishes it. Do they want a rich, warm space or a light and airy, open concept? She captures their vision from paint selection to furniture placement, to lighting and accessorizing. “Even the paints are custom. I make them here in my studio,” Nettie says. “I want people to find their home in here.”

314.780.6195

NettieWhiteInteriors.com

“There is no detail left undone,” Nettie White says. “This is all so people can see what can be done with finishes.”

THE little BLACK DRESS

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES STYLIST: AMANI SKALACKI

Most of us can say we have that one staple black dress that can be worn at any occasion, and the classic look is not only popular but is elegant and timeless. It is the dress in our closet that can be accessorized to fit the event and often is the dress we go back to time and again. It is one of the most versatile items we own, never goes out of style and looks good on anyone. But how did this classic look originate?

Prior to the 1920s, black was reserved for funeral wear, but when Coco Channel made the bold move to print a short, black dress on the cover of Vogue in 1926, all of that changed. The popularity of the black dress skyrocketed, and it became one of the most influential pieces of clothing. Chanel transported fashion from tight corsets and bustles to straightlined silhouettes. Because of its affordability, black remained a popular choice during The Great Depression. The black dress had another boom in popularity when “Breakfast at Tiffany’s’’ debuted, and Audrey Hepburn showcased her iconic black dress with long, black gloves. Today, people accessorize the black dress to fit any occasion.

We enlisted the help of stylist, Amani Skalacki, to show us how versatile the little black dress can be.

THE POPULARITY OF THE BLACK DRESS SKYROCKETED and IT BECAME ONE

OF THE MOST influential PIECES OF CLOTHING.

COCO CHANNEL MADE THE BOLD MOVE TO PRINT A SHORT, BLACK DRESS ON THE COVER OF VOGUE IN 1926

“We usually think of the little black dress as a piece you wear to an event. However, because black is so flattering on all body types and skin tones, women have multiple black dresses from casual to evening,” Amani says. “I selected this collection of dresses to show the versatility of the black dress and to give women some new ideas of how to wear the evening gown with a train on a night out with her girlfriends or the traditional summer strappy maxi dress while running errands in cooler temperatures.”

Although black is a timeless, classic look, that doesn’t mean it goes without personality. You can make it your own style by accessorizing to infuse new life into a dress that you already own.

“A sequin dress can be dressed up with heels, or that same dress can be transformed into a casual outfit with the addition of tennis shoes and an oversized blazer or a denim jacket. Transform that strappy dress you have been wearing all summer into an outfit that is perfect for chilly fall temperatures. Add a narrow scarf, a leather jacket and sandals or a tall pointy boot, and you have a whole new look for an evening out,” Amani adds.

If you have a dress in the back of your closet that you haven’t worn in years, don’t be afraid to dust it off and give it new life. “Take that evening gown you wore years ago to a tailor for a little transformation. Turn it into a high low dress-top that can be worn out with girlfriends or on a date night. Pair the top with leather leggings, ankle boots, a chunky belt and some statement jewelry, and now you have a piece that pushes the boundaries of the little black dress.”

Are you looking for the best cut or style of dress that works best for your body type? Amani provided this simple guide:

HOURGLASS FIGURE:

• V-necklines

• Cinched-in waistlines

• Tailored/fitted dresses

PEAR OR TRIANGLE

FIGURE:

• Tailored dresses

• Off the shoulder

ATHLETIC FIGURE:

• Embellished

• Ruffles

• Empire waist

• Volume is your friend

APPLE FIGURE:

• Drop waist

• A-line

The dress that all body types can’t go wrong with is a wrap dress of any length.

Professional Matchmaking for St. Louis Singles.

events

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

SEPTEMBER 8TH-10TH

St. Louis Art Fair

Celebrating 30 Years

DOWNTOWN CLAYTON

| 5:00 PM

This year marks the 30-year history of this art fair, still attracting high-quality artists and honoring diversity and community inclusivity through a celebration of the Arts. It's produced by Cultural Festivals. Hours: Sept. 8 from 5-10 p.m.; Sept. 9 from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Sept. 10 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. For details, email Tracey Morgan at tmorgan@ culturalfestivals.com.

SEPTEMBER 14TH

Hanley Fall Festival

HANLEY HOUSE | 5:00 PM

Mark calendars for the return of the Hanley Fall Festival on Thursday, Sept. 14, from 5-7 p.m. at the Hanley House. Details were still being finalized at press time.

SEPTEMBER 16TH

Fall Farm Festival

THE MAGIC HOUSE, ST. LOUIS

CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

| 10:00 AM

Kids meet local farmers to learn where their food comes from, sit in a real tractor, participate in a variety of agricultural activities and even check out real farm animals in the museum’s Outdoor Play Garden. The Fall Farm Festival is made possible with the support of the Missouri and Illinois Farm Bureaus. This event is included with museum admission.

SEPTEMBER 16TH

Old Webster

Jazz & Blues Festival

483 E. LOCKWOOD AVE.,

ST. LOUIS | 12:00 PM

One of the most family-friendly jazz festivals on the planet, this festival promises non-stop jazz and blues from two stages. Started in 2005, it showcases St. Louis’ most talented performers plus food and drink from area restaurants. Street entertainers also amuse spectators with face-painting, juggling and balloons. Take strollers and lawn chairs. It usually draws 12,000plus annual attendees.

SEPTEMBER 21ST

Fall Chapman

Plaza Concert

SHAW PARK | 5:30 PM

Take blankets, lawn chairs and snacks to enjoy with live music along the falls and gardens. Food truck fare and refreshments will be for sale. Access to parking will be throughout Downtown Clayton. This event is sponsored by Barry-Wehmiller and the Clayton Community Foundation (CCF).

SEPTEMBER 23RD - 24TH

Greater St. Louis Hispanic Festival

SOULDARD PARK | 10:00 AM

This annual event is largest Hispanic celebration in St. Louis and features Hispanic folk dancers, 50plus booths, folk arts, crafts, cultural organizations, Los Ninos Kids Corner with Dora the Explorer & Diego, seven live Latino bands. Traditional folk dancers from Mexico, Peru and Venezuela will perform and offer dance lessons. The Cultural Village hosts foods and beverages from Latin/South America.

EVENTS CONTINUED

SEPTEMBER 29TH - OCTOBER 1ST

Q In The Lou

KIENER PLAZA | 4:00 PM

Top US barbecue chefs pack up their grills and smokers to bring a taste of their hometowns to one of the most celebrated barbecue cities in the world: St. Louis. Featuring nine of America’s legendary pitmasters, this is a celebration of great barbecue, cooking tutorials, a BBQ innovations expo, amateur cooking contests, live local music, and of course, barbecue.

SEPTEMBER 30TH

Jazz Festival

CARONDELET PLAZA IN DOWNTOWN CLAYTON

| 5:00 PM

Enjoy vibrant evening featuring some of St. Louis' and the nation's most sought-after jazz musicians; free admission. Food and wine will be available for purchase at vendor stations throughout the evening; note that outside food and drink (except for water) is not permitted. Musical Line Up: Joe Bozzi Band, St. Louis Legend, Ptah Williams, Michael Silverman, Billy Barnett All Stars.

SEPTEMBER 30TH

VJ Mancuso Memorial Fund

Trivia Night & Benefit

'THE J' (CREVE COEUR)

| 6:00 PM

This is the 13th Annual VJ Mancuso Memorial Fund Trivia Night & Benefit Fundraiser, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Sign up online ($200/ table of 8): VJMman.org/trivia-night .  Trivia begins at 7 p.m. and is hosted by Courtney Landrum of The Courtney Show on 106.5 The Arch. Sponsorship opportunities available. For questions, contact Jen Mancuso (VJ’s Momma) at 314.956.9556 or jenmancuso@gmail.com.

ARTICLE BY BAILEY MORRIS

Lavender Vanilla Sugar Scrub

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

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 cup of granulated sugar

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

• ½ teaspoon vitamin E oil

• ½ teaspoon real vanilla extract

• 15 drops lavender essential oil

DIRECTIONS:

Sugar scrubs are amazing for getting rid of dead skin and exfoliating to reveal soft skin. To make this Lavender Vanilla Sugar Scrub, mix all ingredients together and store in an airtight jar.

Three French Hens was founded by Jeanie Hood in 2003, with the help of her husband, Alan, and their family + friends, she turned the old Hill Behan Lumber Yard into a beautiful furniture store. Continuing with Jeanie’s vision, granddaughter, Rae Sutton and the rest of the Three French Hens team have adopted a business model that puts our clients first. At our showroom, you’ll find premium pieces for your home that will stand the test of time. With its third generation of ownership, the 10,000 sq ft showroom is always changing and evolving! Custom furniture, rugs, lighting, decor, fabrics, art, and more can be found at Three French Hens with our fun and experienced designers ready to pull it all together - in-store or with our in-home design services.

*Exclusions Apply

*

We are so grateful for our loyal customers & the continued opportunities to help you make your house a home for 20 years. TUESDAY

12TH

13TH Girls Day Out

15TH Food

WEDNESDAY JOIN US AT ALL OUR UPCOMING EVENTS. 636.458.8033 threefrenchhenswildwood.com 16935 Manchester Road Wildwood, Missouri 63040 V @tfhstl B Three French Hens - Wildwood

Truck Friday

Festival

SIGNMENT

THE EASIEST WAY TO SELL YOUR EXOTIC CAR FOR TOP DOLLAR .