Gainesville, FL May 2023

LADIES WHO MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN OUR COMMUNITY

Don't Skipthe Sunscreen!

With over 5 million cases diagnosed in the United States each year, skin cancer is America's most common cancer. Fortunately, skin cancer is also one of the most preventable forms of cancer. About 90 percent of nonmelanoma skin cancers and 85 percent of melanoma cases are associated with exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun.

Gainesville Dermatology experts recommend the daily use of a broadspectrum sunscreen, as this protects the skin against harmful UVA and UVB rays. With an SPF minimum rating of 35, you can protect against sunburn which reduces the risk of skin cancer, helps prevent photodamage and photoaging, or premature skin aging.

Prioritize the health, the longevity, and the appearance of your skin contact us today.

Friday, Saturday and Sunday

Live Music 5 days a week OPEN FOR LUNCH

THE DEPOT RESTAURANT & SPEAKEASY ANTONIO’S CUCINA ITALIANA

THE BIG EVENT New Wedding & Event Venue (Now Open) Ice Cream Parlor Coming Soon!

May 2023 – Ladies Issue

Cheers to the Women in Our Lives!

I don’t know about you but I love any opportunity to recognize the women in my life who just make life more rich and beautiful.  Our mothers, grandmothers, wives, aunts, daughters and sisters are some of the most influential women in our lives, and I am so very grateful for them all!!

And of course with Mother’s Day this month, all eyes are on Moms… But it’s not just the biological mothers but the mother figures in our lives who have made an indelible impact on us. It’s the family members, community leaders, friends and neighbors doing awesome things in our communities, pouring into our lives - making themselves unforgettable and irreplaceable.

While it’s always important to shop local and support our area businesses, this month is the perfect time to patronize businesses owned by women in our communities, and you’ll find many of these businesses in our Mother’s Day Gift Guide section this month.

One of my favorite parts of this role is connecting with and championing the best of the best when it comes to Gainesville and Alachua County’s women - they are our movers and shakers, healers, builders and makers. They are both seen and unseen. Their silent service blesses those who are under their care. Their attention to detail shows us something about beauty that can’t be seen or understood any other way.  You will find some of these women featured in this issue on both our cover and in the pages of the magazine.   I sincerely wish that we had the room and the time to cover so very many more wonderful women with stories worth sharing, but we will save those stories for other future issues.

I also want to take this opportunity to give a huge thank you to my two right hands – our Editor, Leza Mueller, and our Staff Photographer, Steffanie Crockett – big cheers to you both and thank you so much for all you do!  Thank you to all the women who do so much for this community.  Enjoy and celebrate the women in your lives.  Happy Mother's Day!  And see you around town!

RYNNI HENDERSON, PUBLISHER @GAINESVILLECITYLIFESTYLE

May 2023

PUBLISHER

Rynni Henderson | rynni.henderson@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Elizabeth Mueller

elizabeth.mueller@citylifestyle.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Steffanie Crockett | Admin@PROSTphotography.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS & PHOTOGRAPHERS

Cade Museum, True Force Roofing, Showcase

Properties of Central Florida, Jamrock Junk Removal, Mark Koper, OREP Media LLC, Floating Lotus

Therapeutic Spa & Health Center, Prost Photography, Nartak Media Group, The Village at Gainesville, Tioga Town Center, Momentum Dance Arts, Enlight Energy, Scenthound Gainesville SW, Wood You of Gainesville, Tanya Cousaul Photography, Jag

Agency, Linda Rocha, Sweetwater Branch Inn, Shady Grove Photography, Matheson History

Museum, Zoe Bowden, Black Prong, The Home Place, Michelle McElroy, Leza Mueller, Cabi Style with Leza, Beauty Lounge Co., Club Pilates, Malgorzata's, Club Synergie, Pinspiration, Pink Fox Photography, Maureen Fannon, Dianna Ullery, Dr. Laura McChesney, Rachel Pearson, Sherry Houston, Kara Bolton, Maggie Jones, Nikki Naylor, Adrienne Fletcher, Kaelyn Schmidt Designer, Architography, Carpet One Floor & Home

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 Hunter Richie

LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee

Proverbs 3:5-6

This dazzling evening will be packed with a silent and live auction that features unique items and experiences, heart-warming stories from the House, exquisite cuisine, open bars, dancing, and more.

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

1: 2nd Anniversary Party supporting Gainesville City Lifestyle Magazine. The Gainesville City Lifestyle Team. 2: Rynni Henderson, Publisher of Gainesville City Lifestyle & Linda Rocha at the 2nd Anniversary Party. 3: Guests and friends at the 2nd Anniversary Party of Gainesville City Lifestyle. 4: The Fairfield Inn team hosting the 2nd Anniversary Party supporting Gainesville City Lifestyle Magazine. 5: Guests at the 2nd Anniversary Party supporting Gainesville City Lifestyle Magazine. 6: The Country Inn and Suites and the Fairfield Inn team celebrating. 7: True Force Roofing Team enjoying the 2nd Anniversary Party for Gainesville City Lifestyle Magazine.

8: Raffle winners from the wonderful prizes of the night, celebrating Gainesville City Lifestyle Magazine. 9: ZEN Asian Eats team sponsors of the 2nd Anniversary party supporting Gainesville City Lifestyle. 10: Guests at the 2nd Anniversary Party supporting Gainesville City Lifestyle Magazine. 11: Ribbon Cutting time for the 2nd Anniversary of Gainesville City Lifestyle Magazine. 12: Miss Gainesville and Rynni Henderson pulling raffle tickets for the wonderful prizes of the night. 13: Eric Godet and Larry Henderson enjoying the 2nd Anniversary Party for Gainesville City Lifestyle Magazine 14: Guests at the 2nd Anniversary Party supporting Gainesville City Lifestyle Magazine. Photography by Prost Photography

1-2: Stressless and Walker Furniture Event. Donations this year went to the Ronald McDonald House 3: Chris Doering Mortgage, established April 2007 provides mortgage products: conventional, FHA, USDA and VA loans. 4: Steve Spurrier welcoming elite college football names to Spurrier’s Gridiron Grille for award celebration event. 5: Candi Richeson, Lisa Spurrier King, Tricia Garzon at Coach Steve Spurrier Award Reception. 6-7: Sisset's Home & Patio 10 year Anniversary Celebration.

PROST PHOTOGRAPHY

TANYA CONSAUL PHOTOGRAPHY

TANYA CONSAUL PHOTOGRAPHY

RYNNI HENDERSON

RYNNI HENDERSON

TANYA CONSAUL PHOTOGRAPHY

PROST PHOTOGRAPHY

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

1: Appleton Museum staff Director’s Circle Reception to celebrate Spring 2023 exhibitions. 2: Artist Hiromi Mizugai Moneyhun talks about her work at the Appleton Museum of Art reception. 3: Gainesville Rotary Club Members attending the 2023 RLI Training for Leadership at Santa Fe College.

APPLETON MUSEUM

APPLETON MUSEUM OF ART, COLLEGE OF CENTRAL FLORIDA

LOCAL & LONG-DISTANCE MOVING EXPERTS

Whether you are relocating down the street or across the nation, let our team of professionals make your move easy and stress-free. No matter where life takes you, your local MOVERS WHO CARE® are ready to help move you forward!

& LONG-DISTANCE MOVING EXPERTS.

are relocating down the street or across the team make your move easy and stress-free. where life takes you, we can help!

USE

TWO MEN AND A TRUCK®?

owned and operated since 2007

Licensed, bonded, and insured

Full-time, uniformed, drug-screened, and background-checked employees tools, and equipment provided for move hidden fees and long-distance moving options services available upon request referral rating

- LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED SINCE 2007

- LICENSED, BONDED, AND INSURED

- FULL-TIME, UNIFORMED, DRUG-SCREENED, AND NATIONALLY BACKGROUND VERIFIED TEAM MEMBERS

- DOLLIES, TOOLS, AND EQUIPMENT PROVIDED FOR EVERY MOVE

- NO HIDDEN FEES

- LOCAL AND LONG-DISTANCE MOVING OPTIONS

- PACKING AND UNPACKING SERVICES AVAILABLE

- OVER 98% REFERRAL RATING

- 2021 TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® LEADER IN EXCELLENCE #1 FRANCHISE WINNER

EACH FRANCHISE INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED.

WHETHER YOU’RE LOOKING TO START YOUR FIRST TANK OR TRANSFORM YOUR EXISTING COLLECTION, OUR TEAM IS HERE TO HELP YOU!

Our diversified experience in the coral industry allows us to provide the best services to our customers all over the country. Our specialties include aquaculture knowledge, aquarium servicing and setup, rare marine life acquisition, and much more!

business monthly

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Parenting in the Age of AI Series

We are super excited to announce our partnership with The University of Florida to bring you a series on parenting in the age of AI. The " Parenting in the Age of AI Series: Cade Museum and the University of Florida" will be a three-part series covering all parenting topics from social media, AI adoption and how we should imagine the future, and the importance of career workforce prep as it pertains to AI for your children.

Scan to read more.

A True Force In Roofing - Built To Serve!

Founded by an Air Force Veteran, when it comes to integrity and customer satisfaction, True Force leaves no stone unturned. We believe that craftsmanship, education, and communication are the keys to our success. Spreading love and showing gratitude in all things we do!

Scan

looking to elevate your

in the Gainesville or Alachua County area, we’d love to hear from you! Email Lee@ShowcaseOcala.com to apply.

Scan to read more.

Photography Mark Koper, OREP Media LLC

Welcome Jamrock Junk Removal, LLC.

Jamrock Junk Removal, LLC. is a family-owned and operated business located in Gainesville, Florida. We specialize in the removal of junk, appliances, furniture, yard debris, and much more! We also regularly perform eviction, storage and foreclosure cleanouts. We pride ourselves on being able to help our residential, commercial, industrial and government customers.

Contact us for an estimate today at 352-682-3734.

Give the Gift of Health for Special Mothers and Grandmothers!

Celebrate those special Mothers in your life with healthy and pampering gifts.  Floating Lotus Therapeutic Spa & Health Center offers wonderful gift baskets full of lovely products that can be customized for those special ladies in your life! Gift Certificates allow them to pick out a lovely facial or a wonderful massage. Another gift idea is a Passport to Health Membership Program where they can keep themselves in ultimate health. Give them vitality and health!

Pursue More of What You Love: The Village at Gainesville

Retirement is the perfect time to continue or discover new hobbies. They provide plenty of benefits, like creating happiness, providing a sense of purpose, improving mental well-being and enhancing health. At The Village at Gainesville, residents live their retirement years exceptionally with access to a worry-free lifestyle and endless options to pursue hobbies. Whether you want to share your talents, socialize, volunteer, rekindle your passions, continue learning, or take charge of your health, there’s something for everyone. 352-415-0053.

Photography Prost Photography

Photography Floating Lotus Therapeutic Spa and Health Center

Photography Nartak Media Group

Momentum Dance Arts Dancers Chosen to Perform at UF Halftime

Help us congratulate the Momentum Dance Arts dancers, who were chosen to perform at the University of Florida Gators Men's Basketball against LSU at the Stephen C. O'Connell Center Exactech Arena! Congrats once again to the whole Momentum team, and Choreographer Ms. Jianna – well done team!

Go Solar With Enlight Energy

Welcome Enlight Energy to our Gainesville City Lifestyle Family. If you’ve been thinking about solar as a smart way to save thousands and protect yourself from inflation, then don’t delay making your next move. Between the federal tax credit and reduced monthly bills, there has never been a better time to make your home a smart one. Take back control from your utlity company. Go solar. Contact us at 1-800-798-0315.

Scenthound - Franchise of the Year

The  International Franchise Association (IFA) has announced that Joseph and Kathryn Pizzurro, franchise owners of the Gainesville, Florida locations of dog wellness concept  Scenthound , have been recognized as  2023 Franchisees of the Year. The annual award program recognizes outstanding franchise establishment owner-operators that are selected for their service to their communities, fostering a strong and vibrant workforce, opening the doors for career growth and entrepreneurship, and supporting their fellow franchisees. Congratulations!!!

Scan to read more. Scan to read more.

Photography Momentum Dance Arts

We are now open at our new location.  Hip Hip Hooray !!!  We are just half a mile down the road in the same plaza as Harbor Freight and Ollie's. Our showroom is bigger so we can share even more with all of you. Come see our great selection of solid wood furniture with the freedom to choose your style, size and colors.  See you soon! Wood You Furniture: 2400 N Main Street. 352-373-1107

Photography Wood You of Gainesville

Mother's Day Gift Guide

If anyone deserves to be showered with love on their special day, it’s moms. While we see so many of their sacrifices every day, there are so many acts of love that go unseen. Which is why Mother’s Day is the perfect time to gift

your mom a little (or big) something to let her know that you  do  see her.

And our small businesses are the heartbeat of our neighborhood, the spine of our local economy and the spirit of our town, so Shop Local.

Vietri Hibiscus Vases / Starting at $65 / The Home Place / 105 SW 140th Ct Suite 2, Jonesville, FL 32669 / (352) 554-5615

20% off Lash Lift and Tint / Starting at $80 / 100 SW 75th St Suite 203 Gainesville, FL / (352) 888-4988  BEAUTYLOUNGECO.COM

Cabi Scarves, Jewelry & Clothing / Starting at $54 / (352) 359-6023 / lmuellers.gator@gmail.com / ELIZABETHMUELLER.CABIONLINE.COM

Mother's Day Brunch / Starting at $57 / 352-373-6760 / SWEETWATERINN.COM/MOTHERSDAY

Give Mom’s best friend a bath / Starting at $29 / (352) 505-8435 or (352) 316-7334/ SCENTHOUND.COM

Mr. & Mrs. Crab Gift Cards / Starting at $25 / Butler Plaza Central / 3246 SW 35th Blvd, Gainesville, FL 32608 / MRANDMRSCRAB.SECURETREE.COM

It Takes A Village

Wedding Planning: Tips & Ideas

Those in the industry know how much goes into making your wedding day feel like magic. While the center of attention is the newlywed couple, behind the scenes there is a passionate community of wedding vendors all working to make the day appear effortless and unforgettable. Finding all the right vendors can feel daunting but assembling the right team of people is essential to making your unique vision come to life. Event planners have a go-to list for where to start before you even pick a date!

1. Establish your dream wedding theme (this will help you understand what kind of vendors you need.) You might have a general idea of when you hope to tie the knot, but your date isn’t ready to be set until you have at least the venue and photographer available on the same day.

2. Once have a theme, narrowing down your budget and setting realistic expectations upfront will help you navigate through the next steps.

3. Wedding photographers are in high demand, sometimes booking over a year in

advance and before a venue is chosen. You’ll be spending most of your day with your photographer so it’s also important that you meet them and feel like their personality will complement yours, not just their prices.

4. Your theme and budget will help narrow down the type of venue, but other things to consider are travel time for guests and venue capacity. Some venues offer all-inclusive packages which may include catering, decorating and rental items, or even on-site lodging. These can save you money and stress in the long run. Research what’s included in their packages and what options they have for customization. Book tours early in the process to get an in-person look at the space, since pictures alone don’t always tell the whole story.

5. If the stars align and your preferred venue and photographer have the same dates available, you are ready to make the date official!

Wedding planning takes a village, but we can help! Find more wedding planning tips in our blog: blackprong.com/ wedding-planning-101

BY PINK FOX PHOTOGRAPHY & ZOE BOWDEN

ARTICLE BY ZOE BOWDEN

Catherine Kadechka, MA, CCC-SLP - Speech-Language Pathologist

Sara Copeland, DNP, APRN, IBCLC - Comprehensive Lactation Services

Rachel M. Coleman, MD - Concierge-style Direct Pediatric Care

THREE WOMEN OWNED BUSINESSES NOW IN THE HAILE VILLAGE CENTER, READY TO ADDRESS 4TH TRIMESTER NEEDS AND BEYOND!

HONEYBEE PEDIATRICS IS THE PROUD WINNER OF THE 2022 GREATER GAINESVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEW BUSINESS OF THE YEAR.

9149 SW 49th Place, Unit L 101, Gainesville, FL 32608

ARTICLE BY SHOWCASE PROPERTIES OF CENTRAL FLORIDA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MAUREEN FANNON

Valerie Dailey

RELATIONSHIPS ARE THE BACKBONE OF SHOWCASE

In the decade she’s been the owner/broker of Showcase Properties of Central Florida, Valerie Dailey has built the company from fewer than 10 agents into a full-service independent firm. That small brokerage has grown to more than 40 agents strong, with two locations and a comprehensive team of support staff – including an administration team, transaction coordinators, a full-in house creative marketing team, and a Director of Real Estate.

“We’ve put experts in place to help our REALTORS® with marketing, promotion, and administrative work,” she explains. “That allows their focus to be on the relationships they’re building with customers and the community.”

In fact, Valerie views relationships as the backbone of Showcase. The firm and its agents support organizations throughout the area through sponsorships, donations, and outreach. “We’re very involved and invested in our community,” Valerie says. “We try to give back as much as it has given to us throughout the years, and we really enjoy doing it.”

“The goal has always been to provide the best service possible to our customers by offering agents as much support as we can.”

Dr. Laura McChesney

Dr. Laura had been an associate doctor at the chiropractic and injury practice for four years when the owner decided to retire. Having been in an auto accident herself and knowing well the physical and emotional stress of recovery, she had instantly fallen in love with the challenge of helping people get their life back. So, when the opportunity arose in November 2021, she jumped at the chance to take over the practice. Studies show as much as 50% of auto accident

patients end up with chronic pain and Dr. Laura has made it her personal mission to help Gainesville and the surrounding communities achieve better recovery results.

Since then, she has continued to expand the ways she could treat injuries of all kinds. In addition to auto accidents, she sees many athletes including equestrians, weightlifters, runners, and contact sports.

Over the years of treating patients a few things are consistently true. Those that

BE GRATEFUL EVERY DAY AND SHARE THAT GOOD ENERGY WITH OTHERS

ARTICLE BY DIANNA ULLERY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY PROST PHOTOGRAPHY

actively participate in their health do better. Our goal at NFRC is to help you get your life back, meaning, you may still have discomfort or limitations, but you can still find ways to enjoy the things that make you happy. You don’t have to quit riding the horse, playing golf, or playing with your kids. You just need to make non-negotiable time to take care of yourself for a few minutes a day. Staying hydrated, improving your diet, meditation, asking questions about posture, exercise, mobility, supplements…and then actually applying the recommendations. Little changes add up to big results. That extra glass of water morning and night. Moving every hour. Stretching. Proper workstation set up. Adding greens to your day. Taking care of your spinal health. If you have time to be on social media, you have time to take better care of yourself.

For Dr. Laura, who was raised a patient of chiropractic and has always been a proponent of conservative care for a healthier life, she had enjoyed helping chronic pain patients manage their conditions and lessen their discomfort through adjustments and education. But her WHY moment struck when a patient came in after an accident, almost crawling after having been discharged from the emergency room, and was able to walk out nearly upright after one treatment that she truly knew her calling. The patient went on to make a wonderful recovery by the end of the rehab care plan and could resume all usual activities. The ability to get people back on their feet faster, to lessen economic and emotional hardships, lessen the need for medications and delay degeneration and surgeries in a population that is destined to fall victim to those without proper treatment is what drives her each day.

For Dianna, who was stepping into a new service-oriented career after retirement, it was

that first face-to-face encounter with severely injured patients and seeing how our caring environment and personalized, hands-on care restored their smile. It really made a world of difference for that person and so many since then. Helping people has always been at the center of her life and it feels good to have found a new way to contribute.

Allie, our Puplick Relations Officer, has found joy in bringing smiles to distraught patients and those who need a pick me up. She is always ready to provide puppy snuggles and nub wags. Both Dianna and Allie have embraced their new roles in brightening the day of others.

Andy Frisella says it best, “Things to never budge on: Your work ethic. Your quality of work. Your attention to detail. Your integrity. Your morals. Your drive. Treating your employees/people who help you like gold. Treating customers/patients like gold.”

This not only goes for life goals but health goals. So many people are looking for that quick fix, that one thing they can get or be given that solves their problems, but there are none. We have to do the work. Health is a lifelong journey that begins when we draw our first breath. Whether it’s rehab after an accident, weight control, or the quest to maintain wellness, if we do the work each day, we can get where we need to be. Unfortunately, we often realize this only after we experience pain or illness, then spiral into feeling helpless. But you can change if you want to and we are grateful we get to help empower our patients in reaching for a better quality of life every day.

Dr. Laura McChesney North Florida Rehab & Chiropractic  2341 NW 41st STE C, Gainesville, FL (352) 375-3668

“The moment you take responsibility for everything in your life is the moment you can change anything in your life.”

24,000 objects and works of art from around the world. Admission

Bourbon Vanilla

bakery

Where everything is made from scratch!

ARTICLE BY RACHEL PEARSON & LEZA MUELLER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY PROST PHOTOGRAPHY

Welcome to Bourbon Vanilla Bakery.

A gourmet bakery where everything is made from scratch, including my extracts. Come inside for a delicious latte and gourmet croissant or freshly baked bagel.

“I call myself the accidental bakery because starting a new business was not on my radar.  This hobby quickly grew into a business and I believe it’s because I make everything from scratch including my extracts. The first bite of Bourbon Vanilla Bakery is one that will leave you lost in the moment. All you can do is breath, chew, savor, and forget what’s happening around you.”

Rachel Pearson, Owner & Baker

135 N Hathaway Ave, Bronson, FL

BourbonVanillaBaked@gmail.com

Open Monday - Saturday (Closed Sunday)  352-317-9978

toasttab.com/bourbonvanillabakery

Serving Families At Their Most Vulnerable

Helping in a small way to make a difference in the lives of others.

ARTICLE BY SHERRY HOUSTON & LEZA MUELLER PHOTOGRAPHY BY PROST PHOTOGRAPHY

Sherry Houston, Executive Director of the Ronald McDonald House

HOW DID YOU FIND YOUR FOREVER HOME AT THE RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE?

I can promise you as a little girl, I never said I wanted to be the Executive Director of the Ronald McDonald House. But now, I can not imagine life without this opportunity. Being able to serve families when they are at their most vulnerable is so impactful and humbling.

WHAT MADE YOU DECIDE TO WORK FOR A NON-FOR-PROFIT ORGANIZATION?

In college, I got a Master’s in Urban and Regional Planning. I worked on Comprehensive Plans and grants. When my husband, Joel and I had the opportunity to move to Gainesville, over 35 years ago, that is when things began to change for me. I realized I wasn’t having fun as a Planner. And after 11 years, I wanted to make a change. I had the opportunity to volunteer to help the Children’s Home Society in a fundraiser, and I knew I had found my passion. I was so excited to make a tangible difference in the lives of others.

WHEN DID YOU KNOW YOU WERE IN THE RIGHT PLACE?

When the Board of Directors of the Ronald McDonald House offered me the Executive Director position. When I was offered the opportunity, I felt like angels knew I could do something great.

WHO WAS YOUR MENTOR DURING THIS JOURNEY?

I had many. Marla Reece, a neighbor, got me involved in the silent auction for the Children’s Home Society and also the Junior League, which was a huge influence in teaching me how to be a community leader.  Karen Rice, the Senior VP of Advancement at Meridian Healthcare was an amazingly strong woman leader. She supported and challenged me to grow and “beef” up my leadership skills.  And my husband Joel has been so loving and supportive, all along the way. He has always been there to coach me up and walk alongside me. When I look back, every position I have ever had taught me something and the people that came into my life, were all there to teach me something too.

IF YOU COULD LEAVE US ALL WITH ONE THOUGHT, WHAT WOULD IT BE?

I actually have 2 thoughts; I would love to share.  “When you follow the right path and do the right things with authenticity good things happen naturally” and “Be open to possibilities every day, because when you say No to something you are also saying Yes to something bigger.”

Sherry Houston

Executive Director at Ronald McDonald House Charities of North Central Florida

(352) 374-4404, ext 230

shouston@rmhcncf.org

Helping Women Feel Empowered!

Communities create a safe space for women to grow and challenge one another.

ARTICLE BY KARA BOLTON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY PROST PHOTOGRAPHY

WHAT MADE YOU DECIDE TO OPEN EMPOWERED STUDIOS?

I had the idea to start my third company, Empowered Studios, in September of 2021 while my new three-story mixed-use building was under construction in the early framing stage. I didn’t have much time to decide, that space was originally designed to be four offices. I had approached one of the talented instructors from the former Auxo Fitness, Deanna, and she connected me with Amy, who accepted my offer to become the studio’s Manager. I got zoning approval and coordinated a change order very quickly! Amy and I worked closely for the next seven months as I supervised construction to plan every detail of the new studio. My goal was to create a welcoming space where women can reignite, recharge, and build inner strength and outer toughness to accomplish their goals at work, at home, and throughout the community! We announced the new studio in April, just after three consecutive days of inspections from the Fire Marshall, Public Works, and the Building Official, all of which I passed with flying colors! The studio opened on June 3rd, 2022. Our talented team of fitness instructors and front desk staff have helped hundreds of women feel empowered!

INSIGHTS FROM PROVIDING A COMMUNITY FOR WOMEN?

I cannot emphasize the importance of community enough in one’s fitness journey. All of the fitness classes at Empowered Studios are in-person, there are no virtual classes. The personal connections that develop amongst the team members as well as the participants help provide accountability, support, and encouragement to one another. I have also found a network of

women in the recreational activities that I enjoy, such as kiteboarding, hydrofoiling, and sailing. Communities create a safe space for women to grow and challenge one another.

MOMENT WHEN YOU KNEW YOU WERE AT THE RIGHT PLACE?

The right place keeps moving, it’s a barre that just keeps getting raised higher and higher.

YOUR WHY?

My why are my kids (and my dog).

DID YOU HAVE A MENTOR?

I didn’t really have a mentor, that is one of my weaknesses; I hate asking for help. I try to learn everything on my own, but sometimes I just need an experienced professional to help me reach my goals. That is when I hire instructors, many of whom are men. I also have a life coach, Amber, who is phenomenal! I met her at a barre class many years ago and she helps me to show up at my best.

INSPIRATIONAL THOUGHT?

“I am the one that chose to have this baby” Whether you give life to a human or a business, you are responsible for its health and well-being.  What you feed it, what you tell it, and how you treat it. It all makes a difference in how your baby grows. It’s not always fun and you can’t control everything, but you can give it the love and attention it deserves.

Kara

Bolton, CGC, MSM Owner: Empowered Studios President,

Kara Bolton Homes, Inc.  (352) 317-6951 / 9144 SW 49th Place Suite 102 Gainesville, Florida 32608

“MY GOAL WAS TO CREATE A WELCOMING SPACE WHERE WOMEN CAN REIGNITE, RECHARGE, AND BUILD INNER STRENGTH AND OUTER TOUGHNESS TO ACCOMPLISH THEIR GOALS AT WORK, AT HOME, AND THROUGHOUT THE COMMUNITY!”

ARTICLE BY MAGGIE JONES & LEZA MUELLER PHOTOGRAPHY BY CARPET ONE FLOOR & HOME

MAGGIE JONES

CARPET ONE FLOOR & HOME, A FAMILY TRADITION OF OVER 30 YEARS.

“I love it when I hear from my clients how their new flooring makes such a difference in their daily lives.”

Twenty-five years ago, my mother, Harriet Jones, purchased Carpet One Floor & Home from Tom Henley Flooring. Then 5 years ago, after my mother decided to retire, I took over the business. As a Carpet One owner, I get to provide beautiful flooring that is guaranteed. In other words, if you aren’t happy after installation, we will replace it for free. Yes, free.

Taking over the business from my mother was just a natural transition. As a kid, I grew up in the store and have worked in every position, except installation, but I bet I could do it.

I get the chance to work with builders, realtors and individual homeowners. Carpet One has also been a member of the Builders Association of North Central Florida (BANCF)

for over 27 years and a Chamber of Commerce member for over 25 years.

While in the same location since opening, our clients and other business owners see us as a go-to in the flooring industry and a stable partner in the community.  Our wonderful team also adds to our success, they not only work hard but together to provide the best customer service and experience.

If you ever have a flooring question, just stop by. Whatever your budget, timeframe, or whether it’s carpet, laminates, wood, or tile, I can help.

Maggie Jones Owner Carpet One Floor & Home Gainesville, Florida 227 NW 23rd Avenue, Gainesville (352) 562-0565

NIKKI NAYLOR

“My business has grown almost solely on referrals and word of mouth. I have always believed that good work will sell itself. My work philosophy is to work hard and be kind and meet people where they are at. It is really important to me to make women feel good in their own skin and I love helping boost their confidence.”

In 2015, my sister gave me a gentle nudge to learn about microblading. I had been obsessed with eyebrows since my pre-teens and she knew I would be great at it. I started in the makeup industry before college, but after graduating from the University of Florida in 2012, I left the beauty industry to work in non-profit. My sister knew my true passion was helping women feel beautiful and she convinced me to take the leap and open a permanent makeup studio.

In February 2016, Beauty Lounge & Co. opened in a small 120 sq. foot room

and over the last seven years has moved twice as we have grown, landing in our forever home in November 2022. When I first opened, my focus was eyebrow permanent makeup services. I take great pride in knowing my team is highly educated, skilled and passionate! We provide our clients with the highest quality services, customized to them. We can make them look as natural or as glamorous as they like.

When a client tells me how much easier their daily routine is or how they feel more confident rolling out of bed, I just love hearing that. Seeing how a subtle enhancement of their natural beauty can provide them with a more youthful look is one of my favorite things about my job.

Nikki Naylor Owner & Permanent Makeup Specialist Beauty Lounge & Co.

100 SW 75th Street, Suite 203

Gainesville, Florida 32607

(352) 888-4988

ARTICLE BY NIKKI NAYLOR PHOTOGRAPHY BY PROST PHOTOGRAPHY

It's really important to me to make women feel good in their own skin, I love helping boost their confidence.

Feeling More Body Confident

No matter what your scale says, being comfortable in your own skin is up to you. It can be tough, in a society that prizes unrealistic images. But it’s possible, and it starts with what you say when you look in the mirror. Retrain your brain on how to think. Be positive about your body and reflection in the mirror. And yes, tell yourself you are beautiful, even if you don’t believe it at first, because the goal is to turn those bad thoughts into good ones.

And don’t get hung up on the number on the scale. Pay attention instead to how you feel. And swap weight-loss goals with fitness goals. Work toward a goal you can accomplish, like 100 Pilates classes, your first barre class or rock 100 rides. Choose an exercise you love, it will help you stick with it. Added bonus. Doing something you love will make you see your body in a different light.

Also, cut yourself some slack and forget perfection or ridged rules. “Healthy” comes in all shapes and sizes, so do not compare yourself to others. Always remember, it’s essential to love the body you’re in.

Leza Mueller

Professional Stylist: Cabi Style with Leza (352) 359-6023 / lmuellers.gator@gmail.com

elizabethmueller.cabionline.com

ARTICLE

ACCEPTING YOUR BODY AT ANY SIZE

BY LEZA MUELLER PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADRIENNE FLETCHER

Modern Farmhouse Transformation

Through a seamless renovation experience, Kaelyn Schmidt Design can bring your style to life by transforming your home in ways you may not have thought possible. Their design team combines beauty, functionality, and quality craftsmanship and materials to meet their most important goal: Client happiness and satisfaction. By combining the sleek lines of contemporary design with the cozy farmhouse aesthetic, this kitchen transformation creates a uniquely fresh take on the country living-inspired style. These before and after images of this modern farmhouse kitchen and living room shows just how well KSD can transform your space into your own beautiful sanctuary.

Kaelyn Schmidt, Principal Designer | Contractor License #CRC1332971 | (352) 215-1221 mobile kaelyn@kaelynschmidtdesign.com / www.kaelynschmidtdesign.com

ARTICLE BY KAELYN SCHMIDT DESIGN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ARCHITOGRAPHY

KAELYN SCHMIDT DESIGN BRINGS YOUR STYLE TO LIFE

The Hospital For

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

MONTH OF MAY EVENTS

Heartwood Soundstage

HEARTWOOD SOUNDSTAGE

619 SOUTH MAIN ST., GAINESVILLE, FL

Heartwood Soundstage

Saturday, May 13th 12 pm - 11:30 pm

- The Wombash: Celebrating Gainesville's Community Radio Station 90.1

Wednesday, May 24th 8 pm - 10 pmPulp Presents: Pearl and the Oysters to Heartwood Soundstage

Tickets required for all events: heartwoodsoundstage.com/events or call (352) 448-4849

LAST MONDAY OF EACH MONTH

Tipples Brew's & Wine

Tasting Events

2440 SW 76TH ST #110

GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA

Tipples' Brew's & Wine, wine-tasting events are on the last Monday of each month. Included in the wine tastings are perfectly paired appetizers. Check out their Facebook page for information and give them a call at (352) 672-6303 or stop by. Wine tastings are reservation or sign up only. facebook.com/tipples

MAY 6TH

Run for the Roses Derby

Soiree at Black Prong

BLACK PRONG EQUESTRIAN VILLAGE (450 SE CO RD 337, BRONSON, FL 32621)

Dress up for the Black Prong Downs and get a taste of Derby fun! Join us at the Starting Gate for an afternoon of mint juleps, lite bites, lawn games and race-day viewing. Upgrade to the Millionaire's Row to add on a chef-curated, multicourse dinner and indoor viewing of the Derby on

the big screen. 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM Visit  bit.ly/BlackProngDerbySoiree to get tickets!

MAY 10TH & 13TH

May Matheson History Museum Events

MATHESON HISTORY MUSEUM

Matheson History Museum

Wednesday, May 10th - New exhibition opens - “We Are Here: Stories from Multilingual Speakers in North Central Florida”

Saturday, May 13th at 4pm - “The Water State: Exploring Florida’s Interconnected Waterways” with Vasilios Kosmakos

MAY 14TH

Let's Celebrate Moms at Black Prong Equestrian Village

BLACK PRONG BAR & GRILL (450 SE CO RD 337, BRONSON, FL 32621)

Show love to the Moms in your life by treating them to an elegant multi-course meal Sunday, May 14th. Make a bouquet at our pop-up flower bar! Reservations for special luncheon hours begin at noon. Dinner will be served from 5-9 pm. 12 PM - 5 PM Visit  blackprong.com/event/ lets-celebrate-moms to learn more!

MAY 14TH

Sweetwater Mother's Day Brunch

SWEETWATER BRANCH INN

Treat the mom in your life to a fabulous Mother’s Day Brunch at Sweetwater Branch Inn! Enjoy a chef-driven brunch buffet with the whole family in the beautiful Sweetwater gardens. Reservations are required. $57 Adults $25 Children 3-10 years old. Tickets include brunch buffet and one mimosa ticket. Additional mimosas are $5 each. 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM eventbrite. com/e/mothers-day-brunch-tickets-577810445597?aff=ebdsoporgprofile

Want to be featured?

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

COCKTAIL CLUB

Enjoy

HAKU LYCHEE MARTINI

ingredients:

• 2 oz. HAKU® Japanese Craft Vodka

• 1 oz. house made lychee simple syrup

directions:

1. Combine ingredients

2. Shake vigorously over ice

3. Strain and serve up in a chilled martini glass

4. Garnish with a lychee

You deserve to LOVE where you work.