Fort Collins, CO May 2025 by City Lifestyle

w/ SEASONAL Unlimited Wash Passes w/ SEASONAL Unlimited Wash Passes

Grace, Grit, and the Art of Showing Up

May always arrives like a well-timed exhale — the season where growth becomes visible, color returns, and creativity blossoms. It’s only fitting that this month, we honor the force behind so much of that beauty and brilliance: women.

In this issue, we’re pouring into stories that stir the senses and elevate the everyday. You’ll find elevated brunch cocktails worth lingering over, a celebration of floral design from stem to vase, and clever DIY moments — like duotone earrings — that remind us creativity doesn’t require a studio, just spirit.

And while we love a gorgeous table and a perfectly poured drink (and trust me, this month delivers both), what truly defines this issue are the women shaping lives far beyond the page. This month, we proudly spotlight the passionate women of Realities for Children — business owners and leaders who don’t just support children in crisis, but boldly position their companies as champions for change. These are women who weave purpose into profit, using their platforms to protect, uplift, and fight for the futures of our community’s most vulnerable youth — with grit, grace, and relentless resolve.

As you flip through the pages, I hope you feel what I feel every time I sit down to curate an issue: gratitude. For the women building things — families, businesses, communities. For the ones who show up, over and over. And for the chance to tell their stories.

Here’s to the women who raise the bar, raise their voices, and raise the rest of us with them.

If your brand or business is ready to align with stories that matter — stories that build trust, celebrate impact, and connect deeply with a purpose-driven audience — we’d love to feature your voice in an upcoming issue.

With admiration and excitement,

JAHNA EICHEL, PUBLISHER

May 2025

PUBLISHER

Jahna Eichel | jahna.eichel@citylifestyle.com

CO-PUBLISHER

Jason Eichel | jason.eichel@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Morgan Henderson morgan.henderson@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Deanna McCraw | Deanna@thecreativeagencyco.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

The Creative Agency | hello@thecreativeagencyco.com

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

COO Matthew Perry

CRO Jamie Pentz

VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson

VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders

AD DESIGNER Josh Govero

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

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

MOTHER’S DAY RETREAT

Gift with Purchase

Book a series of 3 microneedling sessions and receive a custom-curated medical-grade skincare kit valued at $550.

Massage Series Special

Buy a package of three 90-minute Lymphatic Detox Massages and enjoy three complimentary Dry Brushing sessions—on us!

John Atencio Debuts Fresh Collection

John Atencio Launches New Collections for Mother’s Day Just in time for Mother’s Day, John Atencio debuts fresh designs across his Bellagio, Havana, Arrivo Petite, and Medallion collections—alongside meaningful birthstone styles that speak from the heart. Celebrate the important woman in your life with distinctive, timeless design. Shop the Gift Guide and visit the John Atencio boutique at 164 N. College Ave in Fort Collins. Proudly local since 1976. JohnAtencio.com

Mother’s Day Gift Guide: https:// online.fliphtml5.com/cohsi/jtsd/#p=1

Scan to read more

INC. Names The Creative Agency In Fasting Growing List.

Inc., the leading media brand for entrepreneurs and business leaders, has officially ranked The Creative Agency at No. 35 on its annual Inc. Regionals: Rocky Mountain list. This prestigious recognition cele brates the fastest-growing private companies in the region, spanning Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Utah, and Wyoming. The Creative Agency’s rapid growth underscores its expertise in delivering cut ting-edge marketing, media, and branding solutions through its revo lutionary business model.

Tony®-nominated score by

Steve Martin and Edie Brickell

Now Playing

Inspired by a true story and featuring the Tony®-nominated score by Steve Martin and Edie Brickell, Broadway's BRIGHT STAR tells a sweeping tale of love and redemption set against the rich backdrop of the American South in the 1920s and '40s. With beautiful melodies and powerfully moving characters, the story unfolds as a rich tapestry of deep emotion. An uplifting theatrical journey that holds you tightly in its grasp, BRIGHT STAR is as refreshingly genuine as it is daringly hopeful.

The Heart That Builds a Village

Women Business Leaders Standing with Realities For Children

PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE CREATIVE AGENCY

Tami Spaulding

In Northern Colorado, where mountains rise and communities thrive, a powerful undercurrent of compassion flows quietly but forcefully—led by women who have turned their success into service. These women are entrepreneurs, executives, and business owners who have partnered with Realities For Children, an organization dedicated to supporting children who have been abused, neglected, or are at risk. Together, they are reimagining what it means to do business with heart.

Ann Baron

Janice Oldemeyer

Shari Johnson

Holli McElwee

For Christina Gressianu, a photographer whose lens captures the soul of a moment, Realities For Children offers a way to magnify her values. “Those tiny voices around us are so often ignored or unnoticed. My heart wants every soul to feel loved and cared for, but I can’t do it all myself. Realities For Children is a wonderful way to amplify my values. I love what they do, and their hearts in doing it all.”

Tami K. Spaulding, with The Group Inc., echoes the sentiment of purposeful alignment. “Choosing to be a Business Member with Realities For Children is an easy decision. When you see how they are helping children who have been abused, neglected, or are at risk, it’s the very least I can do to be a small part of this big-picture effort.” She adds, “Thank you, Craig and Molly Secher, for your vision and continued efforts. I’m very proud to be part of it.”

Ann Baron shares a deeply personal connection. Adopted at age four, she knows firsthand the life-changing power of nonprofit work. “The mission of Realities For Children is one I’m passionate about. No child should be left behind. Every penny from their fundraising supports nearly 40 local nonprofits—and all the resources stay right here in our community. That matters.”

Cindy Markley-Degroot & Carrie Markley-Baumgart

Christina Gressianu

Susan Walker

Jahna Eichel

Shari Johnson, owner of Elevate 4:14 LLC, had long admired Realities For Children even before opening her business. “It was always a goal of mine to become a Business Member. Our future is in the hands of children, and it takes a village. Realities reminds us that we are the village—and we can make a difference.”

Janice Oldemeyer of I.T. Refresh highlights the power of collective impact. “We strongly believe in supporting the community where we live and work. We can find no better way than through supporting Realities For Children and their mission to provide emergency and ongoing support to vulnerable children in Northern Colorado.”

At Kilwin’s Chocolates, Fudge & Ice Cream, Holli McElwee believes in giving back—sweetly. “Through our Gold Membership, we proudly support Realities For Children. Their work ensures that youth and partner agencies receive essential services, emergency funding, and critical resources year-round. They also bring joy through programs like Bikes for Tykes and Santa’s Workshop—creating sweet moments that make childhoods brighter.”

Cindy DeGroot of Markley Motors emphasizes how aligned values drive meaningful partnerships. “We deeply resonate with the vision of Realities For Children. We believe in the power of community and giving back. Realities fosters collaboration and fiscal efficiency to serve these vulnerable young lives, and we are proud to be part of a network making a lasting impact.”

For Susan Walker, at MacKenzie Place Fort Collins—a Leisure Care Senior Living Community— the connection is long-standing and multi-generational. “Partnering with Realities For Children perfectly reflects our values. As a proud Business Member for 14 years, our residents and staff find meaning in supporting children through gifting, fundraising, and hosting the Festival of Trees. Realities unites people of all ages in lifting up children who have been abused, neglected, or are at risk.”

“The mission of Realities For Children is one I’m passionate about. No child should be left behind. Every penny from their fundraising supports nearly 40 local nonprofits— and all the resources stay right here in our community. That matters.”

And for Jahna Eichel, CEO of The Creative Agency and Fort Collins City Lifestyle, the decision to join was rooted in both purpose and responsibility.

“We believe in using our platforms to elevate causes that matter. Becoming a Business Member with Realities For Children was a natural extension of our mission to serve with purpose. Supporting an organization that provides hope, healing, and tangible resources to children in crisis aligns perfectly with our values—and reminds us that true impact starts at home, within our own community.”

Each of these women has built something extraordinary in their own right. Yet their choice to support Realities For Children reflects a deeper truth: business isn’t just about profit—it’s about people. And through this organization, they’ve joined a movement to ensure no child in Northern Colorado is forgotten.

Because when women lead with compassion, communities rise. And when businesses invest in childhood, they build not just a future—but a legacy.

scent THE OF STYLE

Step inside Style Curated, and you’ll quickly realize—this is no ordinary boutique. Nestled within a space that feels more like a personal atelier than a retail store, this elevated shopping destination offers more than timeless silhouettes and curated pieces. It offers a feeling. A moment. A memory in the making.

At the heart of this experience is a signature detail that lingers long after the hangers are empty: scent. “Our customers always tell us how good the store smells,” says Jenna Hepp, founder and creative force behind Style Curated. “And that’s intentional. Every morning, we spritz each garment with our House Scent, 1996. It’s our love letter to the women who shop here.”

Rooted in a background of both fashion and fragrance marketing, Jenna envisioned Style Curated as a brand that didn’t just dress women—it enveloped them in something lasting. That vision came to life with 1996 , a bespoke Parfum de Vêtements crafted to linger on clothing like a whisper of confidence. With spicy citrus top notes that give way to musky, woody warmth, the scent strikes the perfect balance: quietly bold, unmistakably refined.

The experience of 1996 is deeply personal—and purposefully so. “I always knew I wanted to connect memory to scent,” Jenna explains. “Think of your favorite hotel, a spa you adore, a store you never forgot… they all share one thing: an unforgettable fragrance.” For Style Curated, that fragrance is 1996 named not for a specific trend or event, but for something

even more intimate: the year Jenna was born. “It’s subtle, maybe even mysterious,” she muses. “But it invites connection—maybe it reminds someone of their first date, their graduation, or a favorite vacation. It starts a story.”

That storytelling element is foundational to everything Jenna creates. Every piece in the boutique is styled with intention, every detail designed to uplift the modern woman. And 1996 isn’t just a finishing touch—it’s an extension of the boutique’s ethos. Available in both a full-size bottle and a chic travel-sized spray, 1996 is meant to go with you—into your day, your wardrobe, and your most memorable moments.

“I wanted women to feel like their clothing, and their scent, reflected the same kind of quiet confidence we cultivate here,” she shares. “1996 was made to enhance, not overpower. To layer effortlessly with your favorite perfume or stand on its own.”

And the design? “Timeless luxury,” Jenna says simply. From the glass bottle’s elegant silhouette to the understated label, every element is meant to feel beautiful— worthy of a place on your vanity or in your carry-on.

Ultimately, 1996 is more than a fragrance—it’s a thread woven into the tapestry of Style Curated. A boutique where fashion meets feeling, and every visit is a sensorial escape designed just for you.

Because at Style Curated, scent isn’t just something you wear. It’s something you remember.

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMY SALVAGNO

Elevated Cocktails for Brunch Beyond &

3 Fun Spirits To Spoil Mom With This Mother’s Day

Whether Mom prefers to dine reclining pillow-side in pajamas or beside a beautifully dressed table, she’ll appreciate an elegant, elevated cocktail to make her brunch menu extra special. So while she’s indulging in a few extra pieces of bacon, savoring bites of flaky quiche and luxuriating over berry and whipped creamtopped pancakes, impress her with one of these three morning-friendly mixes.

Gin Jam &

A simple ingredient drink unites the botanical complexity of gin with the rich sweetness of your favorite jam.

Ingredients:

• 2 ounces gin

• 1 ounce lemon juice

• 1/2 ounce simple syrup

• 1 teaspoon raspberry (or your favorite) jam

• Spoonful of jam for garnish

Instructions:

1. Add the gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and jam to your mixing glass.

2. Add ice and shake for 10 seconds.

3. Strain into a double old-fashioned glass over crushed ice.

4. Top with a spoonful of jam and stir it in while you sip.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups orange juice

• 1/2 cup tequila

• 1/4 cup lime juice

• Lime wedge, for rimming glasses

• Coarse salt, for rimming glasses

• 1 bottle champagne or Prosecco

• Orange and lime slices for serving

Instructions:

1. In a pitcher, combine orange juice, tequila and lime juice and stir to combine.

2. Line glass rims with lime and dip in salt. Pour in orange juice mixture and top off with champagne.

3. Add sliced oranges and limes to glasses and serve.

Margarita Mimosas

Sweet and tart combined with classic champagne bubbles make for the perfect brunch accompaniment.

Instructions:

1. Infuse vodka: Tear five basil leaves into small pieces and place into a small glass jar with vodka. Seal tightly and shake, refrigerate, then infuse for at least six hours, shaking the jar occasionally.

2. Make basil sugar: In a small food processor, combine sugar and remaining basil. Pulse until basil is chopped into small, uniform pieces and sugar is pale green.

3. Strain vodka into a glass measuring cup, squeezing basil leaves to release any remaining liquid.

4. Rim glasses: Pour basil sugar onto a small, shallow plate. Fill another shallow plate with water until a quarter-inch deep. Dip the rim of each glass first in water, then in basil sugar.

5. Assemble cocktail: Divide basil vodka between glasses, then add half-cup lemonade to each. Fill glasses with ice cubes and top with seltzer. Garnish with lemon slices.

Ingredients:

• 9 large basil leaves, divided

• 4 ounces vodka

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1 cup lemonade

• Ice

• Seltzer

• Lemon slices, for garnish

Spiked Lemonade

This refreshing twist on a springtime favorite is enhanced with the sweetness of basil and turns the spirit a vibrant green.

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

From Stem To Vase:

TRANSFORMING FLORALS INTO ART

Flowers have a rich history of symbolic meanings. As far back as the 19th century, they were used to convey secret messages. Stories throughout history recount how flowers were used to send hidden messages between people. French publishers began producing flower dictionaries that cataloged the many floral codes that had been gathered over time. Some of these meanings were linked to the flower’s root name, often derived from mythology, while others were drawn from the flowers themselves. The colors, medicinal properties, and even the superstitions

associated with these flowers all contributed to the creation of this secret language.

In addition to their symbolic significance, flowers bring natural beauty to any interior, enhancing spaces with their color, texture, and mood-boosting qualities. Floral arrangements not only create a cozy atmosphere but also infuse a room with personality, elevating the overall ambiance. There are multiple ways to creatively integrate florals into your home, and whether using fresh or artificial flowers, creative displays can make quite the statement piece.

Flower Frogs

Using a frog to display flowers creates a minimalist yet elegant look that highlights the individuality of each bloom. It helps the stems stay in place. To set it up, place the frog on your chosen display base, whether it’s a vase, bowl, platter, or any container you prefer. Then, simply insert the flower stems by gently pressing them into the prongs. Tip: Flowers with sturdy stems and a lighter top work best in a frog, as delicate blooms tend to lose their shape more quickly.

CONTINUED >

“Tip: Flowers with sturdy stems and a lighter top work best in a frog, as delicate blooms tend to lose their shape more quickly.”

Florals and Fruit

“Not only will the flowers’ fragrance fill the air, but the citrus notes from the fruit will add a refreshing scent.”

Add an extra burst of color and texture to your floral arrangement by layering fruit around the edges of your vase. To achieve this, place a smaller vase inside a larger one, ensuring the flowers stay contained in the inner vase to preserve their shape. Fill the surrounding space with water and then arrange sliced fruit along the vase’s outer sides. For a fresh touch, add ice cubes to keep the fruit looking vibrant longer and to hold them in place. Not only will the flowers’ fragrance fill the air, but the citrus notes from the fruit will add a refreshing scent.

Hanging Florals

For a dramatic effect, try creating a hanging floral display. Floral cones are available for this style, or you can craft your own for a more personalized, organic look. The contrast between long-stemmed white flowers and a dark wall creates a striking visual impact.

No matter how you choose to display them, flowers are a wonderful addition to any room. They boost mood, improve air quality, spark creativity, and bring a decorative charm to any space.

“They boost mood, improve air quality, spark creativity, and bring a decorative charm to any space.”

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MINDY WESTER

SPREAD SPECTACULAR

TRANSFORM YOUR MOTHER’S DAY CELEBRATION INTO AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE WITH A STUNNING CHARCUTERIE BOARD

As Mother’s Day approaches, it’s time to go beyond traditional gifts and express your love with a feast for the senses. Create a captivating and vibrant charcuterie board that brings together a symphony of sweet and savory delights, edible rosettes and an array of delectable treats that are as pleasing to the eyes as they are to the palate.

At the heart of this spectacular spread, a bouquet of floral offerings takes center stage featuring assorted chocolate florets, delicate white rose wafers, and salami and cheese blossoms. Perfectly crafted and delicious, they establish the visual and gastronomic theme for the entire display. Accompanying the spread are glasses adorned with edible floral rims, beckoning you to sip and savor the essence of spring; dried lavender, marigold, rose, lemon peel and lily garnishes provide vibrancy and are entirely edible. Elevate the visual appeal with rosefolded napkins and a sprinkle of seasonal flowers atop layers of fresh greenery.

Complement your floral artistry with a curated variety of cheeses, prosciutto, colorful olives, fresh blueberries and strawberries, and candied oranges. Fragrant rosemary bread is perfectly paired with choice preserves, honey and olive oil.

Extend the creative flair to pastries, introducing a variety of shapes, colors and textures. Citrus-infused sugar cookies, raspberry tarts, mini strawberry Belgian waffles and salted caramels are visually alluring and add an extra layer of delight to the overall presentation.

The beauty of crafting a charcuterie board lies in its versatility – an opportunity to showcase your thoughtfulness and create an experience tailored to your loved ones. Consider swapping chocolates for macarons, experiment with your own garden herbs and infuse your spread with unique seasonal and local flavors. A charcuterTEA is a delightful way to make your mother feel extra special. Simply fill a teacup with her favorite confections and unique flavor combinations for an individual experience of love and gratitude.

DIY DAY

INSPIRATION FOR A MOTHER/ DAUGHTER DIY DAY

WITH MOM

ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN

An afternoon spent together is priceless with today’s busy schedules. Instead of going out, staying in can provide quaint, quiet one-on-one time for a mother and daughter (or multiple daughters). Finding time on calendars is the hard part, and filling that time is all fun from there. Here are a few favorite ideas for inspiration that may spark excitement for planning those special times together.

01 Interview Journaling

Storytelling makes for the best memories. Structure memory recall by filming or journaling interview-style question-andanswer sessions, cataloging information for future generations. Videos and notes with detailed family adventures are priceless, and we all always wish we had more of them.

02 Charm Necklaces 03

Custom DIY charm necklaces and bracelets are trending. Gather a theme idea: birthstones, family initials, travels or even favorite hobbies, and procure charms from your local craft store or online shop. Selecting charms for each other also could be a fun way to bring delight to the crafting occasion. Necklaces and bracelets can be made for each other, or as future gifts for upcoming occasions such as a family wedding, a birthday milestone or an anniversary.

Text conversations around kitchen tips or ingredient procurement seem endless. Spend some time together in the kitchen preparing favorite family recipes, sharing Mom’s best tips and tricks. Choosing freezer-friendly meals is a great way to walk away with meals for upcoming busy days. There’s nothing like Mom’s recipes!

Meal Prep