Cullman, AL May 2023

May 2023

PUBLISHER

Missy Gurley | missy.gurley@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Wendy Sack | wendy.sack@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Amanda Myers - Fox and Hound Photography, Jennifer Murphree - JenJen Photography

Women Celebrating Women

Our May issue is dedicated to celebrating the inspirational women in our lives. I often reflect on the many women who have impacted my life. I am so thankful for each and every one of them. They definitely helped shape me into who I am today.

We wanted to highlight some phenomenal women around Cullman because we are blessed with so many inspiring ladies who play such important roles in our community. We are thrilled to bring you pages filled with their stories!

We are sharing stories of women who have made their marks in our community in one way or another. They are moms, sisters, daughters, business owners, goal crushers, survivors, supporters, organ donors, best friends and true trailblazers. You may know them already, but we cannot wait to tell their stories!

Take the time to encourage the women in your life. Lift each other up! As you read through this month's issue, reflect on the inspirational women in your own life and reach out to them to thank them for the impact they've had on you.

We hope you enjoy this month’s issue!

As always: Live Local, Love Local and Shop Local.

Corporate Team

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 Rachel Collins

LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray

MISSY GURLEY, PUBLISHER @CULLMAN_CITYLIFESTYLE_

Inspirational women: Back row, left to right, are Misti Easter, Libby Crider, Becky Sherer and Deanna Millican. Front row, left to right, are Ashlea Chance, Tonya Palmer, Melissa Curtis, Ashley Wilson and Mandy Leonardi.

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos

1: West Point High School presented “The Addams Family” in March. On stage is “Morticia.” 2: “Gomez” performs in West Point’s “The Addams Family” 3: “Uncle Fester” on stage during West Point High School’s production of “The Addams Family” 4: The cast of West Point High School’s “The Addams Family” 5: Live entertainment at the Hanceville Irish Festival 6: The Hanceville Irish Festival was a family friendly affair. 7: A young attendee dressed all in green at the Hanceville Irish Festival Photography by Jennifer Murphree with JenJen Photography

with @cullman_citylifestyle_

Smiles for Life

The Smiles for Life whitening campaign runs through June 30. The money raised goes directly to the Smiles for Life Foundation. Half of the money raised will come back to our community, and we will present a check to Cullman Caring for Kids in September.

“Whiten Your Smile & Help a Child”

Contact Cullman Cosmetic & Family Dentistry today for more info. 256-734-7151

Photography Cullman Cosmetic & Family Dentistry

Area businesswomen share inspiration, advice

ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK

PHOTOGRAPHY

BY

FOX AND HOUND PHOTOGRAPHY

CELEBRATING L OCALWOME N

Cullman and the surrounding area are home to many successful, professional women who not only excel in business, but also focus on making their communities better and inspiring younger women.

Back row (left to right) are Misti Easter, Libby Crider, Becky Sherer and Deanna Millican; front row, left to right, are Ashlea Chance, Tonya Palmer, Melissa Curtis, Ashley Wilson and Mandy Leonardi.

ASHLEA CHANCE Owner of Mavens & Makers

Founded: 2021 609 U.S. Highway 278 East, Cullman

“Mavens & Makers is a specialty shop that carries local, small-batch artisan goods along with quality cookware, cutlery and gifts. We have a demonstrative kitchen where we host cooking classes, crafting events and workshops.”

What inspires you?

“Good company and great food. I love to entertain and share my joy of cooking with those around me.”

What advice would you give a young woman starting her career?

“Focus on your passions, surround yourself with strong, inspiring women and never doubt yourself.”

MELISSA CURTIS Broker and Owner of Lake League Real Estate

Founded: August 2020 218 First Ave. SE, Cullman

“Lake League Real Estate is a boutique real estate company that prides itself on providing exceptional customer service and market expertise to every client, no matter the size of their transaction.”

What inspires you?

“The opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of others. Whether it’s through my business or community service, I find fulfillment in knowing that I can help others achieve their goals and overcome obstacles. I find inspiration in the small things in life, like spending time with my dogs and seeing the joy and love they bring to my life.”

What advice would you give a young woman starting her career?

“It’s crucial for young women starting their careers to be fierce in their decisions and not let others sway their visions. It’s important to hold strong to your beliefs and values, and not compromise on them just to fit in or please others. Your voice matters and you have the power to shape your own career path. Don’t be afraid to take risks; be bold in your decisions and strive for greatness on your own terms.”

BECKY SHERER Owner of Granite South

Founded: February 2011

700 18th Ave. SW, Jasper

“We specialize in custom stonework for residential and commercial areas.  We help customers in the selection of the right piece of stone for a particular use.  We also assist in color selections.”

What inspires you?

“My biggest inspiration is seeing other people work hard to reach their goals.”

What advice would you give a young woman starting her career?

“You can do anything you put your mind to. Don’t second guess yourself. Follow your heart. Don’t discount the fact that you are a female. You can do anything a man can do. Life is too short; time flies. Don’t waste time on nonsense.”

DEANNA MILLICAN Co-Owner of Doug Doggett Jewelers

Founded: February 1982

215 Compass Way SW, Cullman

“My sister and I run the store now that dad has retired. There are so many aspects of being a part of my family’s business that bless me every day. I have had challenges to overcome trying to balance family and work. I have had the privilege to raise my girls in the  store, which made being a hands-on mom as well as doing my part in the business possible.”

What inspires you?

“My inspiration comes from having a love for gemstones and jewelry. I enjoy bringing someone’s dream into a reality.”

What advice would you give a young woman starting her career?

“Listen to your heart and find what you are passionate about. There will be long days, but the rewards are so worth it because ‘if you do what you love, you will never work a day in your life.’”

TONYA PALMER Owner of Palmer Law Firm

Founded: 2020

1939 Main Ave. SW, Cullman

“We focus on estate planning and probate needs. From the moment you step through the door, you will feel a sense of comfort. We have purposefully created our space to feel like home. My goal is to provide an environment in which you can feel comfortable and leave knowing you have come to the right place to receive the guidance you deserve.”

What inspires you?

“Strengthening our community through women, children and communication. When I opened my business, I knew that networking with other professionals would be critical. I wanted to start a networking group with other ladies and was placed in the right moment, at the right time to be blessed with the perfect co-founder for such a group.

Ladies Empowering Achievements

Professionally (LEAP) was born. I am also honored to serve as a board member of the Pilot Light Home, and to serve the nonprofit Safe Haven Educational Outreach, Inc.”

What advice would you give a young woman starting her career?

“Strive to maintain a servant’s heart. When you lose this, what you pour into your business becomes focused on you . Be blessed to be a blessing.”

MISTI EASTER Branch Manager/Mortgage Loan Originator at First Federal Mortgage

Founded: 1958

314 First Ave. SE, Cullman

“We provide many types of residential mortgages. Since we are a division of First Federal Bank, we offer a variety of in-house loans in addition to fantastic governmental programs.”

What inspires you?

“Strong women God has placed in my life. There was a time when I didn’t care to have close female friendships, but that all changed when I faced some extremely difficult circumstances in my life about 16 years ago. It was other women who picked me up and helped me face challenges I never thought I could make it through.”

What advice would you give a young woman starting her career?

“Never be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Learn to love yourself first. Know that you are stronger than you realize. Don’t be afraid to use your voice. You can do hard things.”

"I have watched girlfriends go through some unbelievably hard adversities, and yet they still love others unselfishly. At one time or another, most of us have had to make it on our own, and we never fail to be there for each other. Women are so resilient!"

- Misti Easter

Healthy is a fee ling we should all indulge.

Health and indulgence living together in perfect harmony. Discover a renewed definition of skin care in a lavish, immersive environment. After all, health is a hard thing to overdo.

Timeless style

Cullman’s White Willow serves clients from Nashville to Florida

ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK

PHOTOGRAPHY BY FOX AND HOUND PHOTOGRAPHY

If you’ve designed or furnished a home around Cullman, you’re probably familiar with White Willow. Owner Libby Crider opened the thriving business seven years ago.

“I started White Willow in March 2016 in a super small space,” she remembered. “It has grown so much, sometimes it's hard to believe where it all started.”

Crider is an excellent source of inspiration. She explained one rule to remember when designing/furnishing your home: “If you have a large family, the areas you gather in need to be size appropriate. Remembering to be true to yourself and your lifestyle is very important. It can be beautiful but has to be functional!”

She continued, “You can't go wrong with classic clean lines and neutral colors. You can add pops of color and your personality with pillows, rugs and art. If you keep your base neutral it is easy to change accents. A common design mistake is being too trendy. If you design your space based on a trend you will likely want to change it sooner than if you stayed with a timeless style.”

HER ADVICE TO YOUNG PEOPLE STARTING BUSINESSES?

“Be patient. Success doesn't happen overnight! You learn new things every day and have to be willing to do whatever it takes to make it happen. Finding something you love to do makes the hard work all worthwhile.”

whitewillowcullman.com

Libby Crider

“You can’t go wrong with classic clean lines and neutral colors. You can add pops of color and your personality with pillows, rugs and art.” - Libby Crider

Dr.

Dr. Danielle Gilbert Orthodontist

athletes are so underrated’

LOCAL

RUNNER

MANDY

LEONARDI

PROVIDES INSPIRATION FOR YOUNG GIRLS, WOMEN

ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK PHOTOGRAPAHY BY FOX AND HOUND PHOTOGRAPHY, CONTRIBUTED

Local athlete Mandy Leonardi loves to run. She loves to race. "I love to race. I love to see how far and how fast I can push myself," she said.

She also believes that female athletes should inspire young girls to get active.

“I would say 1,000% yes,” she replied when asked. In fact, she said, “I think female athletes should strive to inspire all females, young and old, to want to be active. Being active and choosing to participate in some activity boosts self-esteem and confidence while teaching you how to handle emotions and balance a schedule. Female athletes are so underrated, and the world needs more of them to show everyone how empowering women in athletics can be.”

LEONARDI

HAS FIVE PIECES OF ADVICE FOR YOUNG GIRLS ABOUT SPORTS:

“One: Always have an unwavering belief in yourself; always keep your eyes up and dream from your soul. Two: Sometimes being underrated is the best advantage. Three: Always know that you can truly accomplish anything if you refuse to give up. Four: Never be afraid to fail. Failure is a stepping stone to success; if you have not failed, you have not tried hard enough yet. Five: Cheering on other female athletes does not diminish your success; it creates a bond of unstoppable, inspirational women who can help each other achieve greater.”

When asked for tips she would give women who are looking to start getting healthier, Leonardi shared, “Choose to do it, and just start; do not ever look back. Set goals along the way; set smaller weekly goals – this will keep you mentally positive and it gives you something to strive for that is attainable in shorter measures. Then set a huge goal, something hard, something that could take months or longer - something that keeps you going and really pushing yourself to never quit. Last, write down five reasons why – big reasons – not to look cute in a bikini, but hard, deep reasons (I want to play with my grandkids one day, I want to do something I’ve never done, I want to have a family, I want to get off medicine, I want to find myself, etc.). Pick five and live by those reasons. Read them daily – read them when you want to quit, read them when you feel like it’s too hard, read them when you are tired. Just read them daily.”

‘Female

Mandy Leonardi

Mandy Leonardi poses for a photo in her Boston Marathon T-shirt.

Mandy Leonardi's husband and children are her biggest cheerleaders.

Mandy Leonardi in her element

Being healthy makes you happy!

ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALEXA CHRISTINE PHOTOGRAPHY

Beacon of hope

MEET ASHLEY WILSON, FOUNDER OF CURT’S CLOSET

If anyone ever wanted to see an example of someone creating beauty out of tragedy, they need look no further than Cullman’s Ashley Wilson. Her nonprofit, Curt’s Closet, was born following the heartbreaking death of her son Curtis when he was just 15. Almost six years later, Wilson has become a beacon of hope in the community.

At Curt’s Closet, children 19 and younger can come in and “shop” for clothing, shoes and other basic needs for free.

“ I know from experience that realizing your purpose can empower you and give you hope even in the darkest of circumstances,” she said. “We all have a purpose in this life.  Could you imagine the world if we all lived out our purpose in service to others? It is remarkable to see the change in a child’s eyes and how they carry themselves from when they enter versus when they walk out of our doors with a new wardrobe. There is so much pride and excitement for a child to pick out an outfit in their own unique style and a name brand they might not otherwise be able to get! Not only are we clothing children with life’s necessities, but we are also clothing them with love, self-worth and their identity in Christ.”

“ My goal in the next 10 years is to ensure that any child in need of our services will not go without. I want everyone to be aware of the services that we provide at Curt’s Closet. If we do not have what you need, we will help connect you to other resources in our community. No one should have to go without basic needs.”

- Ashley Wilson

Ashley Wilson

Kids can choose from many different backpacks.

There is so much pride and excitement for a child to pick out an outfit in their own unique style and a name brand they might not otherwise be able to get!

Not only are we clothing children with life’s necessities, but we are also clothing them with love, self-worth and their identity in Christ.”

- Ashley Wilson

Curt's Closet is located at 1101 Third Ave. SE in Cullman.

Clothing and shoes at Curt's Closet are new or like new.

Curt's Closet has a wide array of clothing available.

For Curtis James Wilson (Aug. 28, 2001 - May 7, 2017)

ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY PEDIATRIC DENTAL AND ORTHODONTIC

ASSOCIATES

is one who never gives up’

In 2004, Pediatric Dental and Orthodontic Associates opened its first location in Birmingham. It has since grown to include six pediatric dental office locations and three orthodontic offices. Dr. Danielle Gilbert started Cullman Orthodontics in 2017.  In 2021, Pediatric Dentaland Orthodontic Associates began its partnership with Gilbert and Cullman Orthodontics.

‘A successful woman

Dr. Russo, Dr. Gilbert and Dr. Lopez at the Cullman Bowling Center during a recent teambuilding event

Drs. Ashley Boyd, Melissa Lopez and Emily Rousso are dentists who treat pediatric dental patients at Pediatric Dental Associates Cullman. Gilbert is an orthodontist who treats patients of all ages in need of orthodontic care at Cullman Orthodontics.

When asked to briefly describe the business, the doctors said, “Our goal is to be the premier provider and employer in oral health care in a hospitable, compassionate and high-quality care environment. Our core values are deeply rooted in integrity, development, excellence, accountability, service and community.

“We provide a variety of treatments and services to our patients including cleanings, exams, NuSmile Zirconia Pediatric Crowns, braces, aligners, CBCT, x-rays, jaw surgery and retainers. We encourage our staff to “be the reason someone smiles today” because we understand the value and importance of a positive patient experience.”

When asked what inspires them, the doctors said enthusiastically, “That’s easy…our patients! Whether the

patient is a child or an adult, it’s very rewarding to see the evolution of their smile during their time under our care. In most cases, by the time patients finish their treatment with us, their confidence is boosted, their smile is wider and brighter, and they aren’t as scared or nervous as they once were to see the dentist or orthodontist. That heart-warming journey is what inspires us daily.”

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE A YOUNG WOMAN STARTING HER CAREER?

“We encourage young women starting their careers to be courageous, revel in the experiences that build strength of character, have grace under fire and don’t listen to negativity! Nobody wants to make mistakes or fail, but with every mistake and failure comes a valuable lesson that will help you choose the right direction the next time you are faced with a difficult challenge. A successful woman is one who never gives up.”

Dr. Danielle Gilbert with a patient

events

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

MAY 6TH

Cullman Strawberry Festival

DEPOT PARK | 9:00 AM

The Cullman Strawberry Festival began in 1939. This year's event will include tons of live music, arts and crafts vendors, family activities and, of course, famous Cullman County strawberries by the bucketfuls. Lake League Real Estate is the main sponsor for the event. Headlining the entertainment will be 90s favorite Blues Traveler, with Parmalee, Filmore and Tim Montana. cullmanstrawberryfest.com

MAY 6TH

4th Annual Alumni & Friends Dinner and School Auction

TERRI PINES | 5:00 PM

This is a great night to celebrate and support St. Paul's Lutheran School. Autographed memorabilia, including items from Tom Petty and Paul McCartney, will be up for auction. This year's Impact Award winner will also be recognized. Buy tickets now at stpaulscullman.com/events-announcemets/alumni-and-friendsdinner-and-school-auction.

MAY 6TH

Hats, Horses and Hope

CAMP MEADOWBROOK | 4:30 PM

Come join us from 4:30-10 p.m. and cheer on your favorite horse to see who wins the Kentucky Derby, all while raising money for the Hope Horses therapeutic riding program! Band and live auction. Buy tickets at tinyurl.com/HatsHorsesHope.

MAY 11TH

Clothed in Cullman

STONE BRIDGE FARMS | 5:30 PM

This event will feature a dinner, silent auction and live auction. It benefits Curt's Closet, a local nonprofit, boutique-style clothing and accessory ministry for children and families in need.

MAY 13TH

Branding Day at Sullivan Creek Ranch

SULLIVAN CREEK RANCH |

7:00 AM

One of our favorite days here at Sullivan Creek Ranch! Come out and watch a traditional calf branding/ doctoring day followed by an authentic, all-you-can-eat ($25 per person to eat, cash only) Mexican lunch. Live music and two-stepping. BYOB. sullivancreekranch.com

MAY 22ND

3rd Annual Stephen K. Griffith Memorial Golf Tournament

TERI PINES | 9:00 AM

There will be four-man teams, and lunch will be provided. This annual tournament is a fundraiser held by Garrison Gives Hope to benefit the Stephen K. Griffith Fund. The Fund's focus is to raise mental health awareness and fill the tremendous gap in mental health care services available in our community. regarrison.com/ garrison-gives-hope

Want to be featured?

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