Highlands Ranch, CO May 2023

Local, family owned and operated for over 29 years, we are Colorado’s most complete appliance source, offering every major appliance line to fit any budget.

Call us or visit one of our stunning showrooms. Our appliance experts will walk you through the entire selection process, from browsing, to purchasing, to delivery, offering you the one-on-one attention and advice you’ve come to expect.

Thank you for supporting Colorado’s local businesses. Louisville | Colorado Springs | Littleton | Glenwood Springs www.mountainhighappliance.com/

Exquisite brands. Unparalleled service. Amazing attention to detail.

Whole Lotta Shakin’

Every May, Highlands Ranch City Lifestyle highlights women in our community doing remarkable things. This will be my third Women Movers and Shakers feature, and I'm always amazed at what phenomenal humans we call neighbors.

When we start planning this issue, we are deliberate to ensure we choose women who represent the diversity and breadth of experience that exists in our community. We have CEOs, executives, doctors, lawyers, small business owners, public servants, and many more in our midst. But they share one common trait; commitment to making our community a better place.

Each year, I often hear two things. Many women worry about their writing. Despite that discomfort, they appreciate the cathartic opportunity to write about themselves. That is what Movers and Shakers do; they confront an uncomfortable challenge head on and learn all they can from the experience.

We are moving and shaking around here at Highlands Ranch City Lifestyle. We've grown and are proud to introduce Elizabeth Watson as our new editor. You may recognize her name. She is a frequent contributing writer and account manager. I'll be moving into an assistant publisher/ publication director role to more broadly support our efforts to bring uplifting stories and good news to you, our readers.

We hope 2023 moves and shakes for you too.

See you around town,

SONJA NIX, EDITOR @HIGHLANDSRANCHCITYLIFESTYLE

May 2023

PUBLISHER

Jennifer Starbuck | Jennifer.Starbuck@CityLifestyle.com

EDITOR

Sonja Nix | Sonja.Nix@CityLifestyle.com

SALES MANAGER

Elizabeth Watson | Elizabeth.Watson@CityLifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Sydney Stetzel, Sonja Nix, Joan Dameron

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Lisa Lord

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

1-5: Spring into Fashion event held at Curate. 1: Curate: A Local Mercantile owner Karli Millspaugh featuring Ink + Alloy jewelry from the shop 2: Peggy with Details Boutique 3: Lisa from Sassy Stuff 4: Monika Nielsen – Your Style Rehabist at the Spring into Fashion event at Curate 5: Karen and Darcy from Jean Pool Boutique 6-10: Runners hit the chilly pavement on March 18 for the HRCA St. Patrick’s Day 5K, presented by CU Medicine. The race featured a 3.1 mile race, on-course bagpipe band, and Irish dancing from the Reed School of Irish Dance. Visit HRRaceSeries.org for a full schedule of events. 6: Chris Gosnell and Cherish Rosales at the finish line 7: Macy Kreutz and Abby Bartolotta cheer runners on

SEAN MCNEIL, ASPEN ART CO

SEAN MCNEIL, ASPEN ART CO

8: Melissa Gildersleeve and Cynthia Kelly celebrate the day 9: Spencer Covey in Irish tarten 10: The Gerber family 11-14: HRCA Therapeutic Recreation participants danced the night away at the annual Valentine Sweetheart Dance in February! Attendees celebrated the evening with music from DJ West and live performances. More info on upcoming programs and volunteering opportunities are at HRCAOnline.org/TR

SEAN MCNEIL, ASPEN ART CO

SEAN MCNEIL, ASPEN ART CO

SEAN MCNEIL, ASPEN ART CO

SEAN MCNEIL, ASPEN ART CO

SEAN MCNEIL, ASPEN ART CO

SEAN MCNEIL, ASPEN ART CO

SEAN MCNEIL, ASPEN ART CO

15-21: Highlands Ranch City Lifestyle’s first speed-networking event was held at Uncorked Kitchen & Wine Bar in March. 15: Regional general manager of Scandinavian Designs Cheryl Miller and Julie Butscher of Aging 5280 16: Brandon Lorenz of Cedrus Financial and HRCL editor

Sonja Nix 17: The new solarium at Uncorked Kitchen & Wine Bar 18: Steve and Susanne DeLuca of The DeLuca Agency 19: HRCL writer Elizabeth Watson and Claudia Maniatis of WillStrong Cancer Foundation 20: Laura Linville of Backpack Society and HRCL publisher Jennifer Starbuck 21: Madeleine Walmsley of The Junk Trunk and Elle Juelg of Dwelling & Domain

Want to be seen in the magazine?

Tag your Instagram photos with @HighlandsRanchCityLifestyle

Our motto is simple:

i-Orthodontics was established with a greater mission than straightening teeth We were built to change lives

As a Board-Certified Orthodontist, Dr Isaac specializes in providing custom, high-quality orthodontic treatment for pediatric, adolescent, and adult patients Our goal at i-Orthodontics is to instill confidence in patients through beautiful smiles

Living with significant joint pain and told surgery is your only option?

Living with chronic issues with your Rotator Cuff, Tennis Elbow or Plantar Fasciitis?

Searching for safer and minimally invasive alternatives for joint replacement?

• Non-surgical alternatives to invasive surgery, steroids, and pain medications

• Restoration and rejuvenation for acute and nagging injuries and conditions

• Game-changing treatments and techniques utilizing your own body to avoid prolonged rehabilitation and medication

• Regenerative treatments like: Prolotherapy, PRP, Autologous Fat Grafts, Bone Marrow Concentrate, Nerve Hydrodissection Treatments, Ultrasound-guided Injections, and more

business monthly

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Play Your Favorite TV Game Shows in Highlands Ranch

Emmy Award winning producer, award winning actor and national touring comedian Rion Evans brings his TV Game Show Night to Highlands Ranch. Play Family Feud, Wheel of Fortune, Jeopardy and Press Your Luck all in one night. You can win prizes whether you're on Contestant's Row or in the audience cheering teams on. Find him at the Sports Lounge Off Broadway on the first Tuesday of each month from 7-9 p.m.

Blue Origin Takes Off in Highlands Ranch

Blue Origin, the space company founded by Amazon's Jeff Bezos, opened an office in Highlands Ranch. Colorado has been an aerospace hub, since the mid-1950s, when Martin Marietta began developing the Titan rocket. Blue Origins' endeavors include the New Shepard, a reusable suborbital rocket system designed to take astronauts and research payloads past the Kármán line, and the New Glenn, a larger ship that would carry payloads into low earth orbit, is being prepped for testing.

Under the Linden Tree Now Open

Under the Linden Tree's Kirsten Dehmlow is proud to announce her services as a community herbalist. Practicing in the “wise woman” tradition, she focuses on nourishment and simple, effective remedies, often in the form of teas, tinctures, salves and aromatherapy. Kirsten offers individual consults including a thorough intake and discussion of what areas in your life you feel need some extra support. She also leads classes to deepen your knowledge of using herbs in your home and body.   underthelindentreeco.com

Douglas County Libraries Summer Reading 2023

Fetch some fun during the Dog Days of Summer at DCL, sponsored by the DCL Foundation. Summer reading officially kicks off on June 3, but eager readers of all ages can pre-register online beginning May 1. Every pre-registered participant is entered into the library’s Days of Giveaways prize drawings. This year’s celebration includes puppy-themed activities, fun events, outdoor movies, a friendly school contest, and a community reading challenge that benefits Guide Dogs for the Blind. DCL.org/summer-reading.

April Issue Correction

In April's City Scene section, photos of the Dual Star Dance recital benefitting The WillStrong Foundation were taken by photographer James Heskin.

Want to be featured?

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

Photography: Hutch Tibbetts, Douglas County Libraries

2023 WOMEN MOVERS & SHAKERS

ARTICLE BY SONJA NIX | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LISA LORD

REMARKABLE LOCAL WOMEN SHARE

THEIR SUCCESSES, CHALLENGES AND LOVE OF OUR COMMUNITY

Taylor

O’Leary

Owner of Smooth Secrets Waxing Studio & Med Spa

TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOURSELF.

I was born in Las Vegas but have lived in Highlands Ranch since I was two. After graduating from Mountain Vista High School, I began a pre-med program for dental and then decided on the hygienist route. Due to limited school choices and family health issues, I went with my plan B, becoming an esthetician.

HOW DO YOU PRACTICE SELF-CARE?

My nightly skin routine. It is 10 steps and can take 45 minutes, depending on the night. I take my time and give myself facial massages, turn on music, wear a bougie robe, and decompress.

WHAT CHALLENGES DID YOU FACE DURING THE PANDEMIC? WHAT LASTING BLESSINGS HAVE YOU DISCOVERED?

I hit many walls due to my age and gender. Starting a spa at the age of 23 is a challenging feat. A lot of people didn’t take me seriously or didn’t believe in me as a business owner. All I could do was show up and give my best. I believe everything happens for a reason. Just because someone says no or shuts the door, that doesn’t mean there isn’t another door for me to go through. I am blessed to have friends, family, and wonderful guests who helped me push through my lows and celebrated with me during the highs.

smoothsecretsmedspa.com

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT THE HIGHLANDS RANCH/LONE TREE COMMUNITY?

Oh, my goodness … the commitment to supporting small businesses. One of my biggest goals when first opening Cranelli’s was to be that “local Italian restaurant” where you know you belong, where we know your name when you walk in.

WHAT BLESSINGS HAVE THE CHALLENGES OF THE PANDEMIC YEARS BROUGHT TO YOU?

We learned how strong we are as a family and as business owners. There was no quitting for us. Having experience in the restaurant industry allowed us to pivot in many ways. With our staff’s fantastic support, we not only survived but actually expanded. We did not lose one staff member during the pandemic, and I’m very proud of that. We started delivering within a 12-mile radius, introducing our food to new communities that had not heard of us. Our staff was relentless in providing excellent customer service and food; not once did we shrink our menu or reduce the quality. We have become a stronger restaurant family because of the pandemic. Our blessing is that we continue to thrive every day.

Lasinda Lingafelter-Crane

Owner, Cranelli’s Italian Restaurant

TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOURSELF.

I grew up in rural Nebraska and attended college at the University of Nebraska Lincoln. I moved with my children to Douglas County to build and open Park Meadows in 1996.

WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST PROFESSIONAL CHALLENGE?

Keeping up with the ever-changing retail environment. It is essential to remain relevant and bring the very best stores, new-to-the-market selection for customers to shop and dine. We have created an extraordinary place where memories are made, and people come together. We provide a brief respite from what is happening in life, thus the “Retail Resort.”

WHAT SPECIFIC CHALLENGES DID YOU ENCOUNTER IN THE PANDEMIC, AND HOW DID YOU OVERCOME THEM?

We wrote a variance submitted to the Colorado Department of Health and Environment and the governor’s office. The state was very indifferent and challenging to work with; however, the Denver South community and officials spent many late hours to accomplish an approved variance for a gradual reopening which commenced on May 24, 2020. We were the first in the state and one of the first in the country to put together all the protocols and garner a variance allowing a gradual re-opening of stores with limited capacity and many extra sanitation measures.

I immediately shared the variance with all of the other malls in the state to enable them to do the same. Noting covid was difficult for all businesses, we continue to rebound, opening 28 new stores over the last two years, many new to Colorado. I am forever grateful to work in and with such a progressive area, especially Lone Tree and Douglas County.

ParkMeadows.com

8401 Park Meadows Center Drive | Lone Tree, CO

Pam Schenck-Kelly Senior General Manager, Park Meadows Retail Resort

“The people and the family values are my favorite things about the South Metro area.”

Amy Lunstra

Owner of Festive Cup Coffee & Boutique

TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF.

I had a fantastic childhood in Hastings, Nebraska. After graduating from Hastings College with a degree in Elementary and Special Education and getting married, I moved to the Denver area to finish my student teaching. I taught various grades at Traylor Academy in Denver Public Schools for nine years. After spending some time at home with my boys, I switched to teaching special education at ThunderRidge High School. That changed my life!  Working with students with IDD (Intellectual and/or Developmental Disabilities) became my passion.

In the summer of 2020, I left teaching and became the new owner of Festive Cup Coffee & Boutique in Highlands Ranch, where I had the vision to support adults with IDD in employment and the community. Festive Cup currently employs 14 adults with IDD. In addition to owning Festive Cup, I started a PASA (Program Approved Service Agency) called “WHIT” - Working Hard Independently & Together. Through this agency, we can offer support for adults with IDD in our community.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR BIGGEST CHALLENGE (OTHER THAN COVID)?

Honestly, going from teaching to learning how to be a business owner. When I assumed ownership of Festive Cup, I had 10 days to learn the ropes! Everything happened very quickly, and I was new to owning a business. I have learned a great deal but I am still learning after almost three years. I have a “teacher” brain, so it’s been difficult.

TELL US ABOUT SOMEONE WHO INSPIRES YOU PROFESSIONALLY.

Tiffany Fixter, owner of Brewability and Pizzability, is a force to be reckoned with. Just try to tell her something can’t happen. I love her mission, passion, beer, and pizza. She is making the world an inclusive place, one slice/pint at a time!

HOW DO YOU SPEND YOUR FREE TIME AND PRACTICE SELF-CARE?

I’m just now learning how to do this. I love to read, go on walks/hikes, and spend time with friends and family. Currently, my favorite thing to do is absolutely nothing!

50 Springer Dr. | Highlands Ranch, CO

TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF.

I grew up in Colorado, back when there was no Highlands Ranch. I attended Arapahoe High School and CU Boulder.

My career did not start in education. My undergraduate degree is in Computer Science and Applied Mathematics, and I spent a decade in the high-tech industry in project development and management, education, and consulting.

This took a turn when, as a young mother of three, my passion for STEM education led me to open American Academy. Under my leadership, American Academy grew to serve 3,000 students across three campuses. That decision fostered a passion for education and public school choice, fundamentally changing my life and career trajectory.

WHAT WAS YOUR BIGGEST PANDEMIC CHALLENGE?

My biggest challenge has been working to bring our community together during a time of political division. In our district, we are working to restore civil dialogue where we all talk to each other respectfully, listen to multiple perspectives without judgment, and, most importantly, remember that we serve as role models for our students. We all want what is best for our kids and our community.

I encourage myself and others to presume positive intent and exude optimism daily.

dcsdk12.org

Erin Kane

Superintendent, Douglas County School District

TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOURSELF

I grew up in Las Vegas and moved to Colorado after college due to my passion for camping and hiking. I chose to work for the Lone Tree Police Department based on the values of the community I would be serving.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT THE LONE TREE COMMUNITY?

The culture. Lone Tree is a community that promotes health, fitness, and service. The Lone Tree PD remains committed to Community Policing, which helps build relationships with the community and makes us approachable and receptive to residents.

HOW DO YOU SPEND YOUR FREE TIME AND PRACTICE SELF-CARE?

I spend my free time with my partner exploring the mountains of Colorado, traveling, backpacking, camping with our horses, snowboarding, and exercising. Self-care is essential to us as first responders who require a healthy work-life balance to give 100 percent at work.

WHO HAS INSPIRED YOU PROFESSIONALLY?

Sergeant Joe Cummings encouraged me to establish the Lone Tree Police Department Mounted Patrol Unit, which allows me to bring my horse partner Groot to mingle with the Lone Tree and Denver Metro Area communities at events.

Lone Tree Police Department, 303-339-8150

Lone Tree Police Department, Community Engagement/Mounted Patrol

“I encourage myself and others to presume positive intent and exude optimism daily.”

- Erin Kane

TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOURSELF.

My husband David and I own Jay Financial Group. I worked in the telephone industry for many years prior to becoming a financial advisor.

HOW DO YOU SPEND YOUR FREE TIME AND PRACTICE SELF-CARE?

My son is on the University of Colorado-Colorado Springs rugby team, and I love watching him play a sport he loves. Self-care includes spiritual exercises like meditation, laughing with friends, family, and clients, my love for books, spending time with my book club gang, and regenerating my energy with my family.

WHAT LASTING BLESSINGS HAVE YOU DISCOVERED FROM THE PANDEMIC?

Because everyone was initially working from home, it was challenging not being able to work face-to-face with my employees. Unfortunately, I had to let one of my newer employees go.

Out of that situation, I moved a part-time employee to a lead position, one of my life’s best blessings.  As the world opened up, yet we were still not back in the office, we could work together despite being remote and the covid obstacles facing the world.

We constantly communicated with our clients to inspire the same trust and loyalty they have always put in us. They knew we worked tirelessly to invest their money and manage their accounts despite the pandemic.

jayfinancialgroup.com

Charlotte K Jay Financial Advisor and President/CEO, Jay Financial Group, Inc.

“We constantly communicated with our clients to inspire the same trust and loyalty they have always put in us.”

Ana Yacaman

Founder/CEO, The Best of Cartagena Travel

TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOURSELF.

I am originally from Cartagena, Colombia. My family and I relocated to Denver to be part of a software implementation team at Boeing.

My academic background is in IT and Business. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, with a minor in Business Administration, from the University of Louisiana. I also have postgraduate studies in artificial intelligence from Old Dominion University and Southern Illinois University.

My business has two brands: IT Consulting and Travel. My focus is on the travel agency. Our agency offers an advanced technological edge to our customers, and our prime destination is Cartagena, Colombia, via air or sea.

HOW DO YOU SPEND YOUR FREE TIME?

My all-time favorite hobby is hand-making things with fabric or yarn. I love knitting, crocheting, and sewing. I can safely say that I knit or crochet daily.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT THE HIGHLANDS RANCH COMMUNITY?

The close community environment. My five kids went to school at Cougar Run Elementary, then to Platte River Academy. Some then attended Highlands Ranch High School, and others STEM Highlands Ranch. The school community is very welcoming. The area also offers business opportunities for entrepreneurs and more established companies. All year round, our family finds things to do and places to go and great food options, so I don’t have to drive downtown on the weekend to have fun and relax.

WHAT BLESSINGS HAVE THE CHALLENGES OF THE PANDEMIC BROUGHT TO YOU?

It was a blessing in disguise regarding business opportunities since IT and remote work were revamped like never before. My IT consulting business attracted more customers since remote work became more possible. Regarding the travel agency, we are now facing what the world of travel calls officially Travel Revenge. We are seeing more family reunions, destination weddings, and recharge travel. thebestofcartagena.com

TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOURSELF.

I grew up in Lakewood and received my bachelor’s degree in Speech Communication and Broadcasting from Colorado State University. I worked in broadcasting and advertising and found my passion in sales and marketing. In 2007, I pioneered speed networking with my company Rev Networking in the Denver business community. In 2008 my CPA husband Sean founded Payroll Vault. The business grew so successfully that we launched a unique franchise concept in 2012.  We have 65 locations across the USA.

WHO IS YOUR MUSE?

My sister Lucy Roucis, a Hollywood actress, dancer, singer, and comedian, was diagnosed with Young Onset Parkinson’s Disease at age 27. She lived with Parkinson’s for 34 years and died in 2021. She met all the cool “Parkinson’s people” like Michael J. Fox, Muhammad Ali, and Janet Reno.

WHAT LASTING BLESSINGS HAVE YOU DISCOVERED FROM THE PANDEMIC?

Interestingly, everything with the pandemic directly affected payroll, and our company has flourished. We have stayed on top of all legislative changes to support our franchise owners and the businesses they provide payroll services for. We have helped many companies to achieve stimulus funding and Employee Retention Credits (ERC) to help recover from the pandemic. I love the business of business. All the networking we did before 2020 paid off, as we immediately connected with business owners and political leaders to support and collaborate.

payrollvault.com

Marilyn Manning Director of Franchise Development, Payroll Vault

TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOURSELF.

My hometown is Highlands Ranch. I went to Mountain Vista High School and CSU Fort Collins. I work in the golf industry, starting out at GOLFTEC Cherry Creek, and have moved all over the Denver Metro area, and am now an instructor with PEAK Golf Academy in Centennial.

WHO INSPIRES YOU PROFESSIONALLY?

My father, Jason. He grew up in Greeley and is selfmade, and he told me always to give 100 percent.

HOW DO YOU SPEND YOUR FREE TIME AND PRACTICE SELF-CARE?

I exercise 4-5 days a week and love reading about spirituality. I practice yoga, and my fiancé and I established and ran a BMW car club to engage in our community.

WHAT CHALLENGES AND BLESSINGS DID THE PANDEMIC BRING TO YOUR LIFE?

It took many months to rebuild my book of business; however, I met many new people along the way. My latest blessing was meeting Katie Milstead at the Women’s Colorado PGA Championship last year. She later invited me to join PEAK Golf Academy and help grow the business with my individualism, enthusiasm, and drive for success.

nikki@peakgolfacadmey.com

Please visit citylifestyle.com/highlandsranch to read more about each of these remarkable women.

Nikki Adams Golf Pro, PEAK Golf Academy

“I practice yoga, and my fiancé and I established and ran a BMW car club to engage in our community.”

Sage Advice

WHAT OUR MOVERS AND SHAKERS WOULD TELL THEIR YOUNGER SELVES

ARTICLE BY 2023 MOVERS AND SHAKERS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LISA LORD

"Don’t let your weight or how you look stop you from doing anything. Take that trip, wear that dress, open that business." – Taylor

O'Leary

"Believe in yourself. Do more of what makes you happy. Make health a priority in every way. Play and rest." – Charlotte Jay

“Be more patient with yourself.” – Ana Yacaman

"Everything has a purpose or reason for happening. Good or bad, we learn from our experiences and can shape our future from them." – Marilyn Manning

"Don’t sweat the small stuff. Dream big!" – Erin Kane

"Slow down, enjoy the ride, and spend more time with family, especially your parents." – Pam Kelly

Erin Kane, Charlotte Jay and Taylor O'Leary

"I joined the Marine Corps at 17 years old. I would advise my younger self to take better care of my body so I could serve a full 20 years on active duty." –

Deonna Weil

"Be who you want to be and look how you want to look, as long as you are professional and carry yourself with high regard." -

Nikki Adams

"Don’t live your life doing what everyone else expects you to do. Take risks and learn from them." – Amy

Lunstra

"Don't try to live up to the expectations of others, but actually my own, and stand true to what I believe." –

Lasinda Crane

Nikki Adams, Pam Kelly & Ana Yacaman

Marilyn Manning, Deonna Weil, Lasinda Crane and Amy Lunstra

THE OWNERS OF DEKA LASH CAN HELP YOU CUT VALUABLE TIME OFF YOUR BEAUTY ROUTINE

SMILING EYES

ARTICLE BY JOAN DAMERON

For busy women, time is a valuable commodity. How would it feel to wake up every morning with your brows and lashes ready for the day? Not needing to apply mascara is a game changer. From new moms getting pampered to wedding parties scheduling their services together and having a mini celebration, Deka Lash changes the morning and special occasion beauty routine for everyone.

Deka Lash co-owners Kearin Schulte and Lexi Tehven have teamed up to best serve the community in the Denver metro area.

“Deka Lash is a one-stop shop for all things lashes and brows, including sugaring (hair removal) for face and brows,” Lexi emphasizes. “We can take care of everything from the neck up.”

“New moms look in the mirror and love the way they look,” Kearin says, “and they really enjoy getting a few minutes to themselves.” This makes a great gift from a new father.

The wide range of eyelash extension styles and eyebrow services offer everyday luxury for all lifestyles. The services and products are great, but the team of lash artists make the magic happen. They are highly trained experts who love building relationships with each client. You are included in the decision-making process during customized consultations.

“You feel good when you wake up,” comments one satisfied customer, “and you don’t have to spend extra time getting ready.”

District Manager Peri Tehven concurs. “Our products and services do things that makeup can’t do. There is no smearing, smudging or caking. It’s a natural look that customers love.”

Of course, maintenance is the key to ongoing results and time-saving mornings, and the advantage of the no-contract membership option saves hundreds of dollars per year. In addition to the two refills a month for eyelash extensions that are part of the plan, discounts are available on other services and products. Exclusive service add-ons such as hydrating lip and eye masks are also available.

Eyebrow microblading is a form of semi-permanent tattoo artistry, where pigment is implanted under the skin with a handheld tool that makes hairlike strokes mimicking natural brow hairs that can last up to a year.

Sugaring by Alexandria Professional is a simple, safe and natural hair-removal product made from sugar, lemon juice and water. It is less irritating than traditional waxing and can

be a more permanent hair removal solution with repeated treatments.

Total Brow is a customized service for brows that includes mapping, shaping with sugaring and makeup maintenance.

Spring and summer are the perfect seasons to start simplifying your beauty routine.

“In Colorado, women want to get out in Mother Nature and still look their best,” Kearin says. “You can get out and hike, swim, participate in sports, and go camping—all with your lashes on!”

“We love helping you feel the best version of you,” Lexi adds, “and we look forward to seeing your smiling eyes soon!”

Ready for an eye-opening experience? Make an appointment at a Deka Lash near you:

DEKA LASH PARKER

17051 Lincoln Ave. | Unit D 303-532-5823

DEKA LASH HIGHLANDS RANCH

1485 Park Central Drive | Suite 200 303-835-0236

Peri Tehven, Kearin Schulte, Lexi Tehven

#DouglasCountyStrong

At Home With Havenly

ARTICLE BY SYDNEY STENZEL PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

SUBURBAN HOME UPDATES WITHOUT A MAJOR RENO; TIPS FROM COLORADO’S OWN HAVENLY

Highlands Ranch was founded in 1981; Lone Tree was incorporated in 1995. Since then, interior trends have come and gone. While plenty of new construction options abound, those homes built early on still have lots of life left. If you are looking for a way to update a house built when the year still began with the numbers one and nine, look no further. Here are six tips to help your interiors feel 2023.

LIGHTING THAT CREATES A WELCOMING ATMOSPHERE.

Lighting is one of the most significant impacts you can make in a room. Any lighting can illuminate tasks well enough, but the right balance of illumination from a combination of large and small lights — lamps and ceiling or wall fixtures — can give you just the right atmosphere and wow-factor custom to each space. In this design, we worked with an eclectic style that incorporated some thrifted pieces with antiques and new purchases, so it was paramount that the lighting followed the same style. By balancing a table lamp on one side of the sofa with a tall plant on the other, we got the light where we needed it and a larger-scale item to draw your attention through to the high ceilings, where another statement light is on display.

A CURATED VARIETY OF TEXTURES CREATES COZINESS.

Suppose your home is full of carpeted, rectangular boxes in need of some character, like many suburban homes in the South Denver metro area. Here is a way to add personality without significant renovation. Texture!

These two spaces in the same home started with a blank, rectangular canvas, but to make them feel homier, we added natural materials and varied textures. Sustainability was top-ofmind for both spaces, so not only did the natural materials add some muchneeded warmth to the rooms, but they did so with Greenguard Gold-certified woods, low-VOC fabrics, and minimal petroleum products.

POUFS AND STOOLS THAT ADD VERSATILITY.

Especially with work-from-home setups on the rise, the average family home often combines multiple functions in one room: choose furniture that serves more than one function to ensure everything is accommodated without cluttering the space. In this design, we turned a loft at the top of the stairs into a play space with adult seating and an extra sleeping area. The sleeper sofa and play/coffee table combinations add those adult-sized functions, but the stars of the show are the poufs and floor cushions that add the perfect kidsized spot. They provide extra seating, a place to rest your feet, and even an area to rest a tray with beverages as needed, all at a scale that works for both children and adults.

PILLOWS, ARTWORK, AND DECOR ADD A UNIQUE TOUCH.

We needed to make a significant impact for lower cost in a basement room for this space, so we used minimal furniture to keep the area from feeling too tight. To personalize it from there, we layered in smaller details like pillows, bedding, and artwork. Hanging an organic macrame piece on the geometric wall treatment (one that only goes part of the way up the wall to help the ceiling feel taller) helps break up the rectangular shapes in the room, while the mirrors help the space feel visually larger. Choosing pillows of different shapes and scales adds that finishing touch and color pop without overwhelming the bed.

A way to add personality without significant renovation. Texture!

PAINT AND WALL TREATMENTS THAT CREATE CHARACTER.

Let’s just say it: Many basements are either dark and confined or empty and cavernous, but either way, they are usually devoid of much character on their own. Even without an extensive renovation, a new coat of paint or detailed wall treatment (like the brick veneer added along the back of this

Opposite Page, Top: Lighting creates a welcoming atmosphere | Bottom Left: Natural and sustainable materials | Bottom Right: Textures creates coziness | This Page, Top Left: Poufs add versatility | Top Right: Layer decor for a unique touch | Bottom: Add character and color to basements

Lee Mayer co-founded Havenly in 2014 after moving from a small apartment in New York City to a multi-room home in Denver. She was faced with a personal need: She wanted to create a space for her family that fit their budget and reflected their lifestyle while feeling comfortable and beautiful.

Working with traditional interior designers seemed both expensive and inaccessible while pulling it together herself felt overwhelming and unnecessarily complicated. She realized there was an opportunity for a service that provided beautiful design more easily and affordably, making interior design accessible and inclusive for everyone, regardless of budget or circumstance.

space) can significantly impact the space by adding character and architectural detail. The new textures and colors help it feel more inviting and friendly, and a creative layout can get around any structural hurdles. For example, we worked around the structural pole and central staircase in this room with an innovative layout, and we pulled attention from them by highlighting other walls.

RUGS THAT DEFINE A SPACE.

Have a place at home that feels too large to lay out cohesively or a nook you aren’t sure what to do with? Lay down a rug to visually create a more defined area to connect your furniture pieces. A loft at the top of the stairs needed some love, so we added a bold rug as a feature piece. They’re an excellent opportunity for a color pop if you can’t paint. The rug connects all the details in the room to take the loft from a space you pass by to an oasis to sit and stay. Not sure what size rug you need? Err on the larger side.

You may know Havenly as an online, virtual design service, but in markets like Denver, they also offer in-home, in-person design. The online design platform’s features are still available: inspo quiz, designer match, 3D renderings, an online buying platform, and a best-price guarantee. But instead of submitting photos and room dimensions digitally, a designer comes to your home to engage with you directly. The service maintains Havenly’s accessible pricing and access to a wide variety of vendors. Check out their in-person services or schedule a consultation at havenly.com/ in-person

Rugs define space and add color

Dr. Brooke Spencer

Nearly one third of all women will experience chronic pelvic pain in their lifetime. Dr. Spencer is one of the most sought-after physicians in the country for pelvic pain and complex venous disease.

Dr. Samantha Huq

Fewer than 10% of interventional radiologists are women. Not only is Dr. Huq highly trained from one of the most competitive IR programs in the country, she has been working alongside Dr. Spencer for almost a year now.

“We

McGilvery

Make an Impact for Mom

Memorable ways to celebrate the mother figure in your life

The moms and the mother figures in our lives mean everything to us. They deserve the best every day, of course. But at least one day out of the year, we get to shower them with the same love and thoughtfulness they give to us so selflessly.

This year, we hope you’ll consider some memorable ways to make lasting memories with the mom or mother figure in your life. If you haven’t already planned something special, take a look at our list of ideas and circle your favorites. If you have kids, let them join in the fun too!

Whether you decide to spend a day at home or enjoy a day on the town, these innovative celebration ideas will include fun for the whole family and make Mom feel loved. Whatever activity or surprise you land on to show your mom, wife, sister or maternal figure your appreciation for all they do, the most important thing is that you all get to spend some quality time together.

Take a Flower Arranging Class

Mother’s Day arrives just as spring is in full bloom. Take advantage of the season by going to a flower arranging class with mom.

Play a Family Board Game

If Mom likes strategizing, challenge her to a friendly board game competition. (And, no, you don’t have to let her win just because it’s Mother’s Day.)

Pick Your Own Fruit

This activity is especially fun if you have a lot of kids who want to get in on the action. Then, when you all get home, you can whip up a treat for Mom with your selections. (Maybe give her a strawberry in a Champagne glass while she waits.)

Book Her a Weekend Away

There’s no day like Mother’s Day to be impulsive! Book a weekend trip for the two of you at a cute B&B in a city Mom has always wanted to visit.

Complete a Jigsaw Puzzle

Find a puzzle with an image you know your mom will love (or make a custom one using a photo of the two of you) and put it together over wine and snacks. You’ll be amazed at how much chatting you can get done while puzzling.

Get Theater Tickets

Go to a play or a musical — lots of towns even host outdoor theater events.

Invite Her To High Tea

Whether you make the brews and treats yourself or head out to an official tea house, Mom will love sipping her beverage out of fancy china and snacking on tea sandwiches.

Contributors Page

In this issue honoring women and created by women, we asked our contributors to share the answer to one of the questions we asked of our Movers & Shakers.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO YOUR YOUNGER SELF?

"Look around. Be curious. Listen well. It's not always about you."

Jennifer Starbuck first began her publishing career in elementary school, writing about what was clearly the aftermath of a coyote-rabbit confrontation in her front yard. The report, along with a hand-drawn crime scene photo, made refrigerator headline status. She went on to work as a newsroom manager, writer and editor for various newspapers in Texas and Colorado, before becoming the owner and publisher of Highlands Ranch City Lifestyle. She believes in the sacred power of storytelling and its ability to build a strong community.

"Find the people with whom you feel safe, and then find those who challenge you. Spend time with both. But whoever you are with, be your genuine self."

Sonja Nix is the outgoing Editor for Highlands Ranch City Lifestyle. Sonja first joined the City Lifestyle family as a contributing writer and then as staff writer and editor. Now she will serve the community more broadly as the assistant publisher. Sonja loves stories and believes everyone has an impactful story to tell.

“Hang in there.”

Yes, just like the cat poster from the 70s. Colorado native and longtime bibliophile, Elizabeth Watson’s happy places include bookstores, libraries, coffee shops (with a book) and her sofa (with a book). In the early 90s, she earned a mass communications degree with an emphasis in public relations and journalism. That was followed by numerous years working for architectural and engineering firms writing proposals, press releases and marketing materials. She has been a contributing writer and marketing specialist with Highlands Ranch City Lifestyle for the past year and a half.

"Don't be afraid to start now; do it scared and just show up. Invest in yourself. Surround yourself with women who build you up and help you along the way."

For 12 years, Lisa Lord has been a photographer and small business advocate. Her superpower is helping business owners show up in their marketing by creating images that tell their story and level up their marketing and social media. She is a mom to three teenage boys, a Colorado native, a podcast host, and business coach.

"Mistakes are OK and a natural part of growing. Trust the relationships with your closest people, don't be afraid to try new things...mistake(s) will turn out alright."

Sydney Stetzel is a Havenly designer based in Denver. “I create design that is deeply personal: mixing and matching to fit the needs of the space and the people spending time in it. A combination of different elements is the best way to create a space you love. No matter your schedule or budget, you deserve a space that loves you back!”

Jennifer Starbuck, Publisher, Highlands Ranch City Lifestyle

Elizabeth Watson, Editor, Highlands Ranch City Lifestyle

Sydney Stetzel, Interior Designer, Havenly In-Person

Sonja Nix, Assistant Publisher, Highlands Ranch City Lifestyle

Lisa Lord, Owner Lilo Photography and Branding