Fort Collins, CO May 2024

THE WOMEN’S ISS UE

Women Making Waves

Spring vibes are in full swing, and we’re rolling right into summer with an extra dose of sparkle and inspiration, all thanks to the incredible women in our Fort Collins community. This edition of Fort Collins City Lifestyle is a shout-out to all the amazing ladies out there making things happen, and trust me, it's packed with stories, tips, and treasures you won't want to miss!

The women among us are forces to be reckoned with! From entrepreneurs turning dreams into reality, to artists painting our town with bold colors and bright ideas, Fort Collins is teeming with talent. We’ve got the inside scoop on their journeys, their victories, and how they're shaping our city's future. These stories aren't just inspiring; they're a testament to what women can achieve with grit and grace.

Now, for a bit of dazzle - we're diving deep into the world of jewelry. We're not just talking any bling; we're highlighting pieces that tell a story, symbolize strength, and celebrate the unique beauty of the woman in your life (or hey, treat yourself!). Whether it’s a locally-crafted gem or a piece that’s been passed down through generations, it's all about jewelry that means something more.

Skincare, anyone? Forget the one-size-fits-all approach. We’re bringing back the love for traditional skincare rituals that stand the test of time. From natural remedies that have been cherished for generations to modern twists on classic care, we’re all about that glow-up. It’s skincare with soul, tailored just for you.

And because we’re all about empowering our readers, let’s talk about finances - specifically, women making waves in the investment world. It’s 2024, and being financially savvy isn’t just smart; it’s essential. We’ve got tips for getting started, stories from women investors who are killing it, and advice on how to make your money work for you. It’s time to take charge and watch your dreams grow.

So, grab your favorite drink, find a cozy spot, and dive into this month’s issue. It’s a celebration of you, the women of Fort Collins. Here’s to making waves, breaking molds, and living our best lives, together.

With excitement and admiration,

JAHNA EICHEL, PUBLISHER @FORTCOLLINSCITYLIFESTYLE

CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/FORTCOLLINS

May 2024

PUBLISHERS

Jahna Eichel | jahna.eichel@citylifestyle.com

Jason Eichel | jason.eichel@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Macey VanDenMeerendonk | macey.v@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Morgan Henderson | morgan.henderson@citylifestyle.com

MARKET SUPPORT ASSISTANT

Matthew Hart | matthew@thecreativeagencyco.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Michael Naumburg | michael@thecreativeagencyco.com

PHOTO EDITOR

Henry Magarotto | henry@thecreativeagencyco.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Tony Deyo | tony@thecreativeagencyco.com

STAFF WRITER

Allie Bellows | allie@thecreativeagencyco.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

The Creative Agency | hello@thecreativeagencyco.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Layman Lewis Financial Group, Allie Bellows, Macey VanDenMeerendonk

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Christa Tippmann Photography

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

AD DESIGNER Zach Miller

LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman

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

1 - 3: Bread Fellow is a family-owned small-batch bakery & cafe in the heart of Old Town Fort Collins. Slowly fermented breads & hearty soups are the core of our menu, as we aim to offer simple, nourishing fare that fosters comfort and connection, in a space that is organically nostalgic and supremely cozy. Inspired by old world recipes and processes, we invite our guests to slow down and share a meal with us.

May 12th

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

Medical Spa

Xanadu Med Spa www.xanadumedspa.com | 970.235.9322

The Skin Lounge www.studioskinlounge.com | 970.999.1010

Nu-Reflections Medspa www.nrmedspa.com | 720.487.0029

Pearl Fox Company pearlfoxcompany.com | 970.377.4181

The Body Contouring Center www.xanadumedspa.com/fort-collins-body-contouring-center | 970.482.1889

Women's Health Doctor

Peak Performance Chiropractic & Wellness Center peakperformancefortcollins.com | (970) 232-9258

UCHealth Poudre Valley Hospital www.uchealth.org | (970) 495-7000

Banner Fort Collins Medical Center www.bannerhealth.com | (970) 821-4000

Want to suggest a monthly pick?

Tender Gifts Midwifery & Birth Center tendergiftsmidwiferyandbirthcenter.com | 866.218.5769

My ObGyn myobgyn.clinic | 970.591.9559

GO FROM MONEY STRESS TO A COLORADO ADDRESS

Buying or building, refinancing or investing, the Elevations mortgage team can help make your home-owning dreams a reality. Apply now at elevationscu.com

ARTICLE BY MACEY VANDENMEERENDONK

PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE CREATIVE AGENCY

Gifting Garwoods

A FINE JEWELRY GIFT GUIDE FOR THE INFLUENTIAL WOMAN IN YOUR LIFE

"This hand selected gift guide is tailored for the bold, the timelessly elegant, and the impactful women in our lives."

Fine jewelry will always be the go-to for gifting loved ones something special. Garwood’s Jewelers never misses the mark with creative, stunning, and unique pieces in their collections. This hand selected gift guide is tailored for the bold, the timelessly elegant, and the impactful women in our lives. Show your appreciation for those who embody influence, individualism, and inspiration with a piece of jewelry that embodies those characteristics as well.

1. Ladies 14K Yellow gold Pear-shaped Amethyst and Diamond Earrings $1340

2. Ladies 14K Yellow Gold and Diamond Bee Ring $720

3. Ladies 14K Yellow gold Citrine and Diamond Honeycomb Bee Pedant $805

4. Ladies 14K Yellow Gold Turquoise and diamond Ring for $2,462

5 . Ladies 14K white Gold Sapphire Morning Star Pendant $4500

6 . Ladies 14K Rose Gold Amethyst Emerald cut ring with halo of diamonds $1687

7 . Ladies 14K White Gold Emerald and Diamond Ring $3825

8 . Ladies 14K White Gold Ruby and Diamond ring $1750

9 . Ladies 14K Yellow and white gold mountain Pendant with diamond $350

10 . Ladies 14K Yellow gold and Diamond Dangle Earrings $1235

Empowering Women Investors

10 TIPS FROM THE LAYMAN LEWIS FINANCIAL GROUP

ARTICLE BY LAYMAN LEWIS FINANCIAL GROUP

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTA

TIPPMANN PHOTOGRAPHY

Alicia Lewis, president and financial professional at Layman Lewis Financial Group

Sharon, director of first impressions at Layman Lewis Financial Group

Every woman needs her own financial plan. That’s because her financial strategies often need to be different from a man’s, for a variety of reasons:

WOMEN CONTINUE TO EARN LESS.

Despite an increased presence in the workforce, the average woman working full time earns $0.82 for every $1 earned by her male counterpart.1

WOMEN LIVE LONGER.

A man reaching age 65 today can expect to live, on average, until age 84, while a woman the same age can expect to live almost 87 years.2 As a result, women generally need to rely on retirement income for a longer span. They also face higher health care costs than men during their retirement years.3

WOMEN ARE MORE LIKELY TO BE SINGLE LATER IN LIFE.

In 2020, 70% of men age 65 and older were married, compared to just 48% of women.4 Single women don’t have the opportunity to capitalize on the resource pooling and economies of scale accompanying a marriage or partnership.

WOMEN ARE TIME-STARVED.

In their many roles as workers, wives, mothers, and daughters, women are responsible for more than three-quarters of unpaid domestic work.5 This includes housekeeping duties and caretaking responsibilities for children, aging parents or disabled family members.

WOMEN ARE PAYING THE PRICE FOR GOING BACK TO SCHOOL.

Americans now hold over $1.7 trillion in outstanding student loan debt with women holding almost 2/3 of that debt.6

For many women, financial independence is their No. 1 concern. But what steps can a woman take to help her achieve this throughout her life? Here are a few key

action items you can take to help create financial confidence in your retirement years:

1. KEEP MONEY IN YOUR NAME.

Every woman needs a pot of money to call her own. This means that in addition to joint financial accounts you may have, you should consider keeping some financial accounts in your name only. Also, make sure you maintain an individual credit history. You can do this by holding a credit card or personal loan issued just to you.

2. CONFRONT YOUR FEARS.

Are you controlling your money, or is it controlling you? Are your ideas about money and money management keeping you from becoming financially confident? As women increase education levels and continue to take on expanded roles in the workforce, they control more wealth. As a result, traditional views about finances need to be redefined, and women need to face financial decisions head-on.

3. SHARE THE DECISIONS.

If you share finances with someone else, you need to start talking. This way, you’ll know if you share the same goals and dreams for the future, as well as whether you are on track to meet those goals. Also, remember that disagreements are bound to happen; good communication is key to working through those disagreements and getting you back on track financially as a couple.

4. MAINTAIN ACCESS TO ALL FINANCIAL DOCUMENTS.

Keep your financial records accessible and easy to gather when you need them. This could include brokerage accounts, insurance policies, retirement plan statements, tax returns and other important documents. Keep a record of who owns each account. Be sure to notify the person responsible for handling your estate where all your documents are and whom to contact in the event of your passing.

“Are your ideas about money and money management keeping you from becoming financially confident?”

"An experienced advisor can help you look for the right solutions at every stage of your life and help you build confidence in your ability to take control of your finances."

Natalie, Hollie, and Michelle, the client service group at Layman Lewis Financial Group

Keri, director of client strategy and growth at Layman Lewis Financial Group

5.

PAY YOURSELF FIRST.

Fund your IRA, 401(k) or other retirement account to the maximum. This will reduce your taxable income and allow you to benefit from tax-deferred compounding. When you leave a job, consider rolling your 401(k) funds into an IRA. An IRA account balance can continue to grow tax-deferred, and you will gain the ability to choose from a broader array of investments than is likely available in your employer’s plan.

6.

CHOOSE A FINANCIAL ADVISOR WISELY.

It’s important to work with a financial advisor you trust. Ask for referrals and interview several advisors to find rapport. Don’t be shy about asking tough questions, and check their credentials. An experienced advisor can help you look for the right solutions at every stage of your life and help you build confidence in your ability to take control of your finances.

7.

PUT YOUR PLAN IN WRITING.

Ask your financial advisor to help you create a formal, written, long-term financial plan. A written plan will provide the framework for defining your financial goals and shaping your decisions. It also will help you set your sights on those goals in the long term and help you keep on track regardless of market conditions or unexpected life events.

8. HAVE A BACKUP PLAN.

Speaking of life events, don’t let a critical life change — such as marriage, divorce, widowhood or illness — derail your goals. Your financial advisor can work with you to create a financial plan to address the unexpected and keep you moving toward your goals.

9. UNDERSTAND WHAT YOU OWN.

Although working with a financial advisor is vital, you must also know and make sense of the investments you hold. Educate yourself on basic investing principles by taking classes, reading books or financial trade journals, and doing research. Find out how your investments performed against the market, and ask how fees affect your portfolio.

10. PLAN FOR YOUR FAMILY’S FUTURE.

When planning your estate, you can create a strategy designed to take care of your heirs while optimizing your retirement income. Work with a qualified estate planner and financial advisor to design a strategy for passing on wealth to your loved ones while enjoying the fruits of what you’ve worked hard to earn throughout your lifetime. Financial independence starts with determining your financial goals and putting in place a plan designed to help you reach them. By implementing the steps outlined here, you can be well on your way to creating financial confidence for yourself, both now and in your retirement years.

1 Payscale. March 15, 2022. “The State of the Gender Pay Gap 2022.” https://www.payscale.com/research-and-insights/gender-pay-gap/. Accessed May 17, 2022.

2 Social Security Administration. “Important Things to Consider When Planning for Retirement: What is Your Life Expectancy?” https://www.ssa. gov/benefits/retirement/planner/otherthings.html. Accessed May 17, 2022.

3 RegisteredNursing.org. Dec. 28, 2021. “Here’s How Much Your Healthcare Costs Will Rise as You Age.” https://www.registerednursing. org/articles/healthcare-costs-by-age/. Accessed May 17, 2022.

4 Administration for Community Living. May 2021. “2020 Profile of Older Americans.” Page 6. https://acl.gov/sites/default/files/Aging%20and%20 Disability%20in%20America/2020ProfileOlderAmericans.Final_.pdf. Accessed May 17, 2022.

5 Free Network. Dec. 20, 2021. “Global Gender Gap in Unpaid Care: Why Domestic Work Still Remains a Woman’s Burden.” https://freepolicybriefs. org/2021/12/20/gender-gap-unpaid-care/. Accessed May 17, 2022.

6 AAUW. “Deeper in Debt: Women & Student Loans 2021 Update.” https://www.aauw.org/app/uploads/2021/05/Deeper_In_Debt_2021.pdf. Accessed May 17, 2022.

Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of principal. This information is not intended to be used as the sole basis for financial decisions, nor should it be construed as advice designed to meet the particular needs of an individual’s situation. Our firm does not provide tax or legal advice. All individuals are encouraged to seek the guidance of qualified professionals regarding their personal situation. The information obtained from third parties is believed to be reliable, but accuracy and completeness cannot be guaranteed. Content prepared by A E Wealth Management. © Copyright 2022 AE Wealth Management, LLC.

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ALICIA LEWIS: President and Financial Professional at Layman Lewis Financial group, is the second generation at Layman Lewis helping Coloradans retire with confidence. For additional financial advising information, contact the team at laymanlewis.com

Brunch Bites

ELEVATED RECIPES FOR BRINGING PEOPLE TOGETHER

ARTICLE BY MACEY VANDENMEERENDONK

Sharing meals with family and friends is a timeless tradition. Celebrating loved ones, trying new recipes, and even the weekly shared meal occurrences are all good reasons to bring people together. Regardless of the reason for the gathering, it’s the perfect opportunity to feed body and soul with delicious foods and lively conversation. Bring people together and satisfy your palates with these mouthwatering brunch recipes.

STRAWBERRY RICOTTA BRUSCHETTA

ingredients

• 24 slices French bread baguette (1/2 inch thick)

• 3 tablespoons butter, melted

• 3 cups fresh strawberries, chopped

• 3 tablespoons minced fresh mint

• 3 tablespoons honey

• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese

• 2 tablespoons seedless strawberry jam

• 1-1/2 teaspoons grated lemon zest

directions

1. Brush bread slices with butter; place on an ungreased baking sheet. Bake at 375° for 8-10 minutes or until lightly browned.

2. In a small bowl combine strawberries, mint, and honey. In another bowl, combine ricotta, jam, and lemon zest. Spread ricotta mixture over toast; top with strawberry mixture.

Recipe by tasteofhome.com

ingredients

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

• ¼ cup (packed) light brown sugar

• 2 teaspoons baking powder

• ½ teaspoon kosher salt

• ¼ teaspoon baking soda

COFFEE-FLAVORED BELGIAN WAFFLES

• 2 large eggs, room temperature, beaten to blend

• 2 tablespoons whole-milk ricotta, room temperature

• 1¼ cups buttermilk

• 2 tablespoons instant espresso powder, plus more for serving

• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted,plus more

• for brushing

• Pure maple syrup and whipped cream (for serving)

directions

1. Whisk flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and baking soda in a medium bowl to combine. Whisk eggs and ricotta in a large bowl just to incorporate, then add buttermilk and 2 Tbsp. espresso powder; whisk until smooth.

2. Whisk in 5 Tbsp. melted butter, then fold in dry ingredients with a rubber spatula, careful not to overmix (some lumps are okay). Let batter sit uncovered at room temperature 30 minutes to allow the flour to hydrate.

3. Preheat oven to 200°. Set a wire rack inside a rimmed baking sheet and place in oven. Heat waffle iron and brush with butter. Pour 1 cup batter onto iron and cook until waffle is golden brown and cooked through, 5–7 minutes. Transfer to wire rack in oven. Repeat with remaining batter, brushing iron with more butter as needed. (Waffles will be limp at first but will crisp up as they sit.)

4.Serve waffles topped with whipped cream, drizzled with maple syrup, and sprinkled with more espresso powder.

Recipe by bonappetit.com.

T h e N o r t h e r n C o l o r a d o R a n g e R i n g

Mummy

Palisade Mountain

Longs

Horsetooth

Terra Tomah Mountain

ARTICLE BY MACEY VANDENMEERENDONK PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE CREATIVE AGENCY

INFLUENTIAL WOMEN OF 2024

Fort Collins is full of inspirational, innovative, and influential women. With so many leading the way in the entrepreneurial industry, it’s hard not to recognize the impact they’ve made in so many areas of our community.

Our Influential Women of 2024 are forces to be reckoned with. Having shaped the business landscape of Fort Collins and leaving behind a refined trail in their wake, they’re paving the way for future generations of female entrepreneurs. They’ve shared their inspirations and insights with us on how they not only do what they do, but how they do it so well.

"I highly encourage that in whatever you choose to do in life, NOW is the time to start."

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHER WOMEN WHO ASPIRE TO BE LEADERS IN THEIR COMMUNITIES?

Women in business, take time to gain more knowledge every day. Be the leading source of knowledge in your field. When you have the knowledge and strength to overcome objections, you will be more likely to succeed and be the trusted representative in your field.

WHAT WERE SOME OF THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES YOU FACED IN YOUR CAREER OR PERSONAL ENDEAVORS, AND HOW DID YOU OVERCOME THEM?

My biggest challenge is working in a male dominated field in construction and real estate. I learned that to overcome this challenge you have to be skilled, knowledgeable and stand your ground.

IF THERE WAS ONE THING YOU WISH YOU KNEW BEFORE YOU STARTED, WHAT WOULD IT BE?

If there was one thing I wish I knew before I started it would be to start sooner. To invest at every chance I get. I highly encourage that in whatever you choose to do in life, NOW is the time to start. Start early, but if not early, it is never too late to begin a new journey.

Erin Moreli Brandt Realty

"There is no limit to what anyone can do, and I welcome that first and foremost."

Saja Butler Urban Monk Studios

WHAT DO YOU CONSIDER TO BE YOUR MOST SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTION TO THE FORT COLLINS COMMUNITY, AND HOW DOES IT ALIGN WITH YOUR VISION FOR THE FUTURE?

My biggest contribution is welcoming people who want to play music at any age learn to play or continue to play music. Because of that, I have students in their 40’s-70’s playing music, starting bands and playing local festivals! There is no limit to what anyone can do, and I welcome that first and foremost.

WHAT WERE SOME OF THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES YOU FACED IN YOUR CAREER OR PERSONAL ENDEAVORS, AND HOW DID YOU OVERCOME THEM?

Biggest challenges were being a strong independent woman with power and joy before it was popular. I was doubted, feared, and hated due to my self-certainty. I applied for a loan from my own bank for my present Jeep and they couldn’t believe I had my own business! Now, after 2020, people are realizing that my power is normal and everyone should have it. Self-certainty creates worlds at your fingertips. And you attract REAL friends. I’m glad people are finally accepting that more.

WHO OR WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR BIGGEST SOURCE OF INSPIRATION AND MOTIVATION IN YOUR JOURNEY?

My Dad has been my greatest inspiration, then my mom who just passed in 2022. They were both educators and superintendents. Knowledge is power. We were taught to choose our own path, to learn and travel outside the box, have compassion and be kind, and to be the best of the best. I thank them both fully for that.

"I think being a leader is a characteristic that you can develop but is also a quality that you are born with."

Alexandra Rincones Radiant Dental Health

WHAT DO YOU CONSIDER TO BE YOUR MOST SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTION TO THE FORT COLLINS COMMUNITY, AND HOW DOES IT ALIGN WITH YOUR VISION FOR THE FUTURE?

I feel that I have always been involved with my community. I have been in the dental field for more than 20 years providing oral health for those in need. Being Latina allowed me the opportunity to help the Hispanic community by making them feel heard and understood in their own language. I also work for the City of Fort Collins as a Fitness Instructor. I started teaching about 15 years ago in a Program called “Vida Sana” which provided free dancing (Zumba) classes for those fighting obesity and diabetes. All these experiences are creating a healthy and brighter future for me, my family, and the community.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHER WOMEN WHO ASPIRE TO BE LEADERS IN THEIR COMMUNITIES?

To get in contact with other people. To go out there and talk to people, listen, be active, move, be honest, believe in yourself, find the good in everything. Feel comfortable with yourself. I think being a leader is a characteristic that you can develop but is also a quality that you are born with. Meaning you don’t only want to do it, but to feel it!

“Share your knowledge, and never stop learning.”

WHAT WERE SOME OF THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES YOU FACED IN YOUR CAREER OR PERSONAL ENDEAVORS, AND HOW DID YOU OVERCOME THEM?

As a working Mother and person who is always striving for more education and knowledge, I think the biggest challenge is finding balance with everything.

WHO OR WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR BIGGEST SOURCE OF INSPIRATION AND MOTIVATION IN YOUR JOURNEY?

I have always said our children learn more by what we do than by what we say. Being a role model for my kids has always been a motivating factor.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHER WOMEN WHO ASPIRE TO BE LEADERS IN THEIR COMMUNITIES?

Share your knowledge, and never stop learning.

Tanya Clathis Licensed Laser Technician & Aesthetician at Xanadu Med Spa

The Ladies at Xanadu Med Spa

“Add value to others around you by choosing kindness and creating safe spaces for women to thrive!”

Andrea Tuell

Andrea Tuell Real Estate at The Group, Inc

WHAT DO YOU CONSIDER TO BE YOUR MOST SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTION TO THE FORT COLLINS COMMUNITY, AND HOW DOES IT ALIGN WITH YOUR VISION FOR THE FUTURE?

I believe in giving, loving on people, and creating positive energy for those around me. I try to give to charities that I believe create a major impact in people’s lives and I also make it a point every day to let someone know how wonderful they are and how they make a difference in my life.

WHAT WERE SOME OF THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES YOU FACED IN YOUR CAREER OR PERSONAL ENDEAVORS, AND HOW DID YOU OVERCOME THEM?

We have had a wild real estate market over the last few years and the challenges of it have just helped me continue to grow, be a better broker, and work hard for my clients!

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHER WOMEN WHO ASPIRE TO BE LEADERS IN THEIR COMMUNITIES?

Be yourself and know your worth! Add value to others around you by choosing kindness and creating safe spaces for women to thrive! I am a very proud girls’ girl and I love seeing other women succeed!

“Lean on your community. Learn from the women who are around you and listen! Finding ways to support the women in your life is my number one piece of advice.”

Jalyn Courtenay Webb Candlelight

and Divabee Academy

WHAT DO YOU CONSIDER TO BE YOUR MOST SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTION TO THE FORT COLLINS COMMUNITY, AND HOW DOES IT ALIGN WITH YOUR VISION FOR THE FUTURE?

I think that it is twofold. The first, is providing a safe space for kids to be creative, to heal and to learn how to be kind humans. At Divabee Academy, our focus is beyond the shows we create and perform. Our focus is working with kids to stay curious, to have conversations with others that are kind and encouraging, and to believe in their own unique abilities. With The Candlelight, and soon Boardwalk (our second theatre here in Fort Collins) it is to provide lasting and joyful memories and top tier entertainment.

WHO OR WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR BIGGEST SOURCE OF INSPIRATION AND MOTIVATION IN YOUR JOURNEY?

I read a lot of books! I am very inspired by Brené Brown, Maya Angelou, Oprah, and Glennon Doyle. I also am so inspired by the community I have around me! My longtime friend and colleague Cathy Salaymeh, my dear friend Traci Kern, and my friend Kristi Vogel are women who have lived and continued to live with great hardship, and they continue to be positive and joyful in the face of difficult situations.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHER WOMEN WHO ASPIRE TO BE LEADERS IN THEIR COMMUNITIES?

Lean on your community. Learn from the women who are around you and listen! Finding ways to support the women in your life is my number one piece of advice. I think as women, we are sometimes taught by the media that we need to be “fighting”, - the media often portrays women as catty and as needing to compete. I encourage women to create deep and meaningful relationships filled with support - that will lead to true leadership.

“The most important thing is finding joy and love in what you do, so you don’t call it work.”

Tamara Wenck

Club Pilates Front Range Village

WHO OR WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR BIGGEST SOURCE OF INSPIRATION AND MOTIVATION IN YOUR JOURNEY?

My biggest inspiration is my older sister, Angelia. She is the proud owner of four Club Pilates studios in Omaha, NE. She introduced me to Pilates and inspired me to become a Pilates instructor in 2017. When I became the general manager in 2020, she gave me words of wisdom and it has been wonderful being able to consult with her about studio situations. The growth she has had with the success of her studios helps motivate me to provide the best Pilates experience I can within our studio here at Club Pilates Front Range Village. It was her that inspired me to get into this business and I will forever be grateful to her for it!

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHER WOMEN WHO ASPIRE TO BE LEADERS IN THEIR COMMUNITIES?

The advice I would give other women wanting to go into business would be to take on this role because you want to fully devote yourself to helping others. Being the leader takes a lot of time and effort, so be patient and remember to give yourself grace. Having a successful business takes time, so be kind to yourself and proud of each day. We all have bad or challenging moments, and this is how we learn and grow. A successful business stems from the staff you have and the training you provide, so be present and available to your team. The most important thing is finding joy and love in what you do, so you don’t call it work.

Rafiq with a client

Traditional techniques and elevated technologies

Innovation & Balance in Beauty

ARTICLE BY ALLIE BELLOWS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE CREATIVE AGENCY

Amna

Harnessing the balance of innovation and traditional practices may sound daunting, but for Amna Rafiq, providing the best of both worlds for her clients has been a top priority. When clients experience what The Skin Lounge has to offer, they’re greeted with a fusion of cutting-edge technologies and time-honored methodologies. This harmonious integration reflects a desire for holistic skin care experiences that honor the wisdom of the past while embracing the possibilities of the future. The synergy between innovation and tradition has emerged as a hallmark of discerning skincare enthusiasts striving for balanced and transformative results.

“I like to mix my Eastern roots with the current Western trends, and that’s what The Skin Lounge is all about,” says Rafiq of her unique blend of services and experiences available.

Opening in 2019 as a culmination of more than a decade of experience in the med spa industry, Rafiq had a different premise in mind when she created The Skin Lounge. Fusing together her traditional knowledge, stemming from Pakistan, where she originally hails from and where her love of skincare began, with the latest in Western trends, resulting in more than fleeting skincare fads. For Rafiq, this integration is equally about the transformation and

stunning results, as well as the luxurious experience for her clients. No longer just about a quick fix, her med spa is about health for the mind, body, and spirit, all of which benefit the body’s largest organ, the skin.

As time marches on, individual needs for skin care shift, but Rafiq has seen a generational change throughout her years in the med spa industry. Overall, there is a growing desire for more organic, natural, and “chemical-free” treatments. She has also seen the younger generation adopting skincare philosophies more Eastern inspired by nature. While the older generation is now concerned with corrective procedures, the younger generation, through social media and the wealth of information that is now available about skincare, is more concerned

“SELF-CAR E IS NOT JUST ANACTION, BUT A PHI THAT NEEDS TO BE EMBRACEDBY EVERYONE . ” -

with preventative measures and skin hydration, two of the pillars of Eastern skincare. Rafiq delicately balances these ideologies with her myriad of services, pleasing every customer and lending a part of her knowledge and expertise to every treatment.

As the desire among clientele for more natural skincare increases alongside the technology, the combination of services offered at The Skin Lounge seems less eclectic, and more of an inspired pairing. Utilizing the best of both worlds for jaw-dropping results that were previously only achieved through invasive and painful surgeries but are now offered as a relaxing and luxurious spa session. Eastern-inspired offerings at The Skin Lounge include many forms of massage, with the use of both new technologies and manual facial and head massages which promote lymphatic drainage, a practice that has been used for centuries, especially in Levantine areas.

Rafiq has found that this combination of age-old facial massage, in unison with some of the latest technologies in skin care yields incredible results. Using sophisticated instruments that administer the facial and head massages, is a more precise and targeted way to magnify the results of this age-old practice of massage. The Skin Lounge also offers more traditional manual facial and head massages, depending on what the clients prefer. When used in conjunction with new technologies just introduced to the med spa world, like Thermatone and Myolift, two recently introduced procedures, these massages, both the manual and with the use of futuristic equipment, are yielding incredible results.

“Technology wise the ingredients and the tools have become much more sophisticated. Now it's more of a niche-based industry, targeting specific areas of concern,” says Rafiq of the latest technologies to grace The Skin Lounge.

Instead of using harsh chemicals, Thermatone and Myolift utilize radio frequencies and microcurrents to smooth out the skin and get rid of the fine lines and wrinkles that prematurely age one’s complexion. These non-invasive facelifts give clients results that were once only achievable with an invasive surgery. Now, they are administered in med spas, like The Skin Lounge, giving clients not only the lifted, smooth skin they desire but the entire procedure is a luxurious and relaxing experience.

“I have always taken a much more holistic approach when it comes to treatments in my clinic. I am more interested in long-term effects rather than a quick fix,” Rafiq said. “I have always used the most cutting-edge technology and products. We have also introduced facial sculpting and lymph massages manually and with the use of machines. These will not only build and strengthen the skin matrix but the effects last for a lifetime.”

The future for The Skin Lounge is full of possibilities not even yet realized. With technology always advancing at an incredible rate, there are always new innovations for Rafiq to add to her impressive

ILOSOPHY - AMNA RAFIQ

suite of services. Age-old techniques that have put Eastern practices on the worldwide stage as a leader in skincare, which are also becoming hightech offerings, provide continuous educational opportunities. The innovative ways The Skin Lounge bridges Eastern techniques and Western trends, while bringing a unique perspective to each one of the services offered, all of which will benefit not just the skin in beautiful ways but also the mind and spirit, are carefully contemplated with each luxurious service.

CONNECTION, COMMUNITY, AND EMPOWERING WOMEN

ARTICLE BY MACEY VANDENMEERENDONK PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE CREATIVE AGENCY

What’s at the heart of Solana

Studios

At Solana Studios, jewelry isn’t just for adorning, it’s a way to connect with women and local communities by providing ethically sourced jewelry and quality experiences. What started as a pop-up jewelry business has flourished into a store front and a team that brings permanent jewelry, ear curation and piercing, and fine line tattoos to Northern Colorado.

Monique Suzette, owner of Solana Studios, is a seasoned professional with 12 years of experience working with fine jewelry. Solana Studios started its pop-up appearances at boutiques, markets, business launches and anniversary parties, and offering private experiences for bridal parties, baby showers, and bachelorette parties almost a year ago, with a goal to connect with women and create a community with other small businesses.

“That’s the heart of Solana. Connecting with women, people in general but women specifically, and then also connecting those women to other small businesses, not just mine,” Suzette said.

Her inspiration for opening up a studio was to create an intimate atmosphere that brings women together where they can feel good about themselves while building a community. A sanctuary for those wanting to come in and leave feeling better and taken care of.

The great lengths Suzette goes to incorporate authenticity in her work continues in the products she sells. Her jewelry is ethically and intentionally sourced from the USA and Italy, ensuring the highest quality in sterling silver, rose gold, and 14k gold. Including locally sourced materials is an important aspect of Solana Studios as well, rings sourced from Fort Collins and chains sourced from Denver are included in her collection.

The grand opening of Solana Studios at 409 N Garfield Ave in Loveland in March was the continuation of its mission to provide elevated experiences to women in a space that promotes connection, community building, and feeling your best.