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Dear Reader,
I hope this letter finds you in high spirits and full of creative energy.
Today, I want to take a moment to celebrate and explore the fascinating world of style. Style is not limited to the clothes we wear or the way we adorn ourselves; it encompasses every aspect of our lives. From the way we decorate our homes to the music we listen to, from the books we read to the way we carry ourselves in conversations, style permeates every facet of our existence. It is the thread that weaves together the tapestry of our lives.
Style is deeply personal. And it evolves as we celebrate our quirks, our passions, and our desires. Style is a form of self-expression that communicates who we are, how we perceive the world and what we value. In this way, style becomes a powerful tool for connection, as it enables us to find common ground with others who share our aesthetic sensibilities.
As individuals, we have the freedom to embrace established styles, blend them together, or forge entirely new paths, becoming trendsetters ourselves. We hope this issue inspires you to forge new paths or perhaps explore familiar ones. There is so much here in Highlands Ranch and Lone Tree to uplift our spirits, boost your productivity and ignite your creativity. What I’ve found is that the best style is an authentic expression of who you really are. And that’s something no one on earth can duplicate. Here’s to being uniquely you!
September 2023
PUBLISHER
Jennifer Starbuck | Jennifer.Starbuck@CityLifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Sonja Nix | Sonja.Nix@CityLifestyle.com
EDITOR
Elizabeth Watson | Elizabeth.Watson@CityLifestyle.com
PHOTO EDITOR
Lisa Lord | Lisa.Lord@CityLifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Angela Broockerd, Allison Gibeson, Sonja Nix, Elizabeth Watson
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Haben Hadish, Janie Jones, Amanda Maughmer, Patrick Tracy
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson
TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein
CONTROLLER Gary Johnson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier
JENNIFER STARBUCK, PUBLISHER @HIGHLANDSRANCHCITYLIFESTYLELocal, 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.
1-14: After 27.5 years at Park Meadows Retail Resort, Senior General Manager Pamela Kelly went out with a bang at her retirement party held at the Vistas at Park Meadows on Aug. 4. She was honored by her family, longtime friends and business associates and was given a toast at 5:31 p.m. in nod to the beginning of her retail management career on May 31, 1979. Kelly says she plans to devote her new less-demanding schedule to her grandchildren.
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1-7: Blush Summer Soiree 1: Blush’s Summer Soiree was held at the Littleton location of West + Main Homes. Nikita Jhaveri, Blush co-founder and event organizer. 2: Blush provides on-demand beauty services to all areas of Douglas County. Blush’s mission is to make beauty convenient! 4: Owner of Antoine de Chez, Blush team and Jennifer Jackson with West + Main Homes. 5: Small business owners Patrick Tcheunou, owner and cofounder of Bibamba chocolates and Linda Abbott, owner Travel Through Wine an in-home wine tasting and education experience enjoyed providing samples for the guests. 6: Blush stylist. 7: Antoine du Chez hand treatments.
The inspiration behind our collection is simple: quality furniture crafted for longevity and effortless style. Create a design scheme all your own with these comfortable, versatile pieces.
Local author Diane M. Simard, a strategy advisor to business executives and advocate bringing attention to the intersection of mental health and cancer, is releasing her second book. Heal Forward: Transform Emotional Scars into Impact, has received a five-star rating from Readers’ Favorite. “This book will uplift and inspire you from the very first page,” said Charlotte Wroe, Mindset and Business Coach. Heal Forward is available through Simard’s website, DianeMSimard.com , and other major book retailers.
Aim High HVAC announced it was awarded the 2022 Lennox Centurion Award for its place in the top 6% of all the Lennox dealers in North America at Lennox Live 2023, held at the Gaylord Rockies Resort. They also won the 2022 Dave Lennox Signature Collection Sales Award, honoring the top-performing dealer in each sales district across North America for that collection. Finally, Comfort Advisor Christopher Givens was awarded the 2022 Platinum Ultimate Comfort Advisor Contest Award for top sales.
Scan to read more.
Douglas County awarded YANA M2M with funding for 2023 and 2024 to assist the non-profit with technology and expansion of programming into more hospitals. YANA M2M’s mission is to create a place where every mom will feel safe, accepted and valued. Pictured above from left to right, Commissioner Lora Thomas, YANA M2M staff member Pam Swift, Nikki Brooker (Founder/CEO), Dawn Bradshaw (Board member), Lissa Miller (Board member), and Commissioner Abe Laydon. YanaM2M.org
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 for acute and nagging conditions
• Game-changing techniques to avoid long-term rehabilitation
• Regenerative treatments like: Prolotherapy, PRP, Autologous Fat Grafts, Bone Marrow Concentrate, Nerve Hydrodissection Treatments, Ultrasound-guided Injections, and more
Taste to Transform is an event to remember! Guests will enjoy delicious cuisine created by local chefs and food trucks, open bar, live auction and entertainment. The event benefits the Musana Community Development Organization. Haril and Andrea Kazindra, Co-Founders and Executive Directors, will share Musana’s impressive impact and exciting plans for the future. Special guests Tim and Demi-Leigh Tebow join the stage to celebrate Musana’s milestone 15-year anniversary. The event is on Sept. 16 at The Brighton, 3403 Brighton Blvd., Denver. Details and tickets at Musana.org/events
Lisa Casper, Douglas County Libraries Community Relations Liaison, received the 2023 Author Advocate Award presented by the Colorado Authors League. The Author Advocate Award is a special recognition of individuals who advance the careers of established and upcoming authors, promote literacy and reading, and facilitate access to books and learning. “In her 16 years with DCL, Lisa has exemplified passionate advocacy in her support of authors and their work,” says Kerri Morgan, DCL’s Special Events Manager.
Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/HighlandsRanch
Nordic design and Scandinavian minimalism use soft hues and textures to maximize light, emphasizing clean lines, utility, and simple, cozy furnishings.
Alternatively, uniquely American rustic interiors embody an adventurous spirit, incorporating elements from nature in their raw and imperfect state.
When Scandi meets Rustic, nature-inspired, sophisticated, and functional spaces emerge. It is no secret why these design approaches work well together for Western lifestyles; casual, no-fuss, sophisticated, and fresh.
Furniture purveyor Scandinavian Designs first opened as a small storefront in San Rafael, California in 1963 by native Norwegian Erling Eide. 2023 marks its 60th year bringing Nordic design into Western homes. Using an array of materials to create a minimalist, but warm and welcoming furnishings, sleek
linear shapes combine with richly textured wood grains, leather, and textiles to create complexity, warmth, and comfort.
The key to this style is visual variety, mixing the organic feel of traditional rustic design with streamlined modern style by pairing classic comfort with modern aesthetics to create a space that exudes polished, rugged elegance.
Pictured here are pieces from their Karsten, Braxton, and Varden Lines.
Find them at 7155 Business Center Drive, Highlands Ranch.
Owner says High-End Western Wear Brand Puts Customers First With Traditional Cowboy Culture of Honesty, Integrity
ARTICLE BY ELIZABETH WATSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY PATRICK TRACY
Established in Aspen in 1990, Kemo Sabe was the new store on the block when “the block” was already a world-class luxury shopping destination. Original owners Tom and Nancy Yoder managed to thrive in that competitive market by focusing on quality, customization and a heart-felt dedication to the values of a traditional cowboy culture. The luxury western wear retailer now has Kemo Sabe locations in Aspen, Vail, Las Vegas, Jackson, Wyo., and Park City, Utah.
Wendy Kunkle, owner and president of Kemo Sabe, answers questions from Highlands Ranch City Lifestyle on her history with Kemo Sabe, being fearless in the business world and the absolute importance of the customer experience.
Highlands Ranch City Lifestyle: The original owners, Tom and Nancy, created a culture of exceptional customer service and the highest-quality inventory. Is there anything that has been especially important for you to continue that they started?
Wendy Kunkle: Absolutely! Tom and Nancy Yoder established a culture centered around honesty, integrity, and putting customers and staff first. Those values are the lifeblood of Kemo Sabe, and it’s been of utmost importance for me to continue that legacy. We always prioritize exceptional customer service, never compromising on the quality of our products, and ensuring that we treat everyone involved with respect and fairness.
HRCL: Please provide a summary of your background with Kemo Sabe.
Wendy: I was lucky enough to land a job at Kemo Sabe in 2005. I went from sales to manager to general manager to president and learned business 101 quite quickly. I have done everything from scrubbing the toilets to finding new Kemo Sabe locations. The beauty of Kemo Sabe is that we want to teach everyone anything they want to learn. And there’s a lot!
HRCL: When did you know the transition to owner was going to be your path forward?
Wendy: The realization struck me in 2017 when the company’s owner decided to sell it. During the interviews with potential buyers, I was asked how I would improve the company. It was in that moment that I had to envision my own path forward with Kemo Sabe. This forced me to think creatively and come up with ideas to make the company even better.
As I shared my vision, I became determined to make it a reality. Two years later, in 2019, I begged my brother, Bobby to act against potential equity firms that would certainly kill the heart and soul of Kemo
Sabe. We put together a bid, and thankfully, ours emerged as the highest and most committed offer.
HRCL: Do you have a background in fashion, or are you bringing more of a business operations focus?
Wendy: My focus leans heavily toward the dayto-day craziness of Kemo Sabe. Anything to do with the sales floor, I’m involved. I’ve always been a dreamer with a flair for creativity, and that’s where my strengths lie. I enjoy envisioning new possibilities and change and then working relentlessly to bring those ideas to life. Bobby complements my skills by handling the financial aspects, and Andrew, our third partner, is the brilliant mastermind behind the business and production operations. Together, we make a formidable team that covers all aspects of Kemo Sabe’s success.
HRCL: I love that you’re described as a “badass” and fearless. I interpret that as your unwavering sense of right and wrong, which reflects in how you treat customers and the quality of the apparel at Kemo Sabe. Is that accurate?
Wendy: The term “badass” is something I wear with pride because it signifies my fearlessness and determination. I’ve always been someone who pushes boundaries and refuses to be confined by conventional thinking. If someone challenges me or doubts what I can achieve, it only fuels my fire to prove them wrong.
I believe in doing what’s right for the business and our customers, and that has been the cornerstone of Kemo Sabe’s culture from its inception. I carry a money clip daily that has #1 Bad Ass on one side and FIGJAM on the other (F@#$ I’m Good, Just Ask Me). Confidence has never been an issue for me.
HRCL: Kemo Sabe represents a Western culture, what does that mean to you?
Wendy: To me, Kemo Sabe represents the romance and fantasy of the cowboy lifestyle—the charm of a bygone era where handshakes were binding, life was simpler, and people cherished a genuine connection to nature and each other.
“Tom and Nancy Yoder established a culture centered around honesty, integrity, and putting customers and staff first. Those values are the lifeblood of Kemo Sabe, and it’s been of utmost importance for me to continue that legacy.”
We aim to recreate that atmosphere at Kemo Sabe, where customers can feel at ease, be themselves, and have a good time. We embrace the spirit of the cowboy—a symbol of freedom, fearlessness, and the pursuit of a life filled with adventure.
HRCL: For readers not familiar with the artistry of a custom cowboy hat, can you describe Kemo Sabe’s process?
Wendy: At Kemo Sabe, we take a unique approach to custom cowboy hats. It’s a fun process where we encourage our customers to let loose, have fun, and take part in the design journey. We offer ideas and assistance, but ultimately, we want our customers to feel like they are the designers and that their hat is a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.
Not only can customers craft exquisite custom hats, but they can also bring to life their very own custom-made buckles and boots and be a part of the design process from start to finish.
If it resides within the realm of imagination, then rest assured, our skilled artisans stand ready to transform it into a creation that speaks volumes about its wearer. If you can dream it, we can design it!
To shop online or find store information, visit KemoSabe.com.
“To me, Kemo Sabe represents the romance and fantasy of the cowboy lifestyle —the charm of a bygone era where handshakes were binding, life was simpler, and people cherished a genuine connection to nature and each other.”
These are often the first signs of cataracts. The COLORADO EYE CONSULTANTS team has extensive experience treating cataracts and performing cataract surgery.
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ARTICLE BY ALLISON GIBESON | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Tamara Day, star of HGTV’s Bargain Mansions, describes her style as “laid-back luxe.”
“I am a mom of four, and I like pretty, shiny things,” Tamara says. “The two don’t always mix well. I design with lifestyle and family in mind but with that touch of glam.”
This mixture of practicality and flare can be accomplished throughout the home on a budget, Tamara says.
When it comes to the kitchen, she says replacing the backsplash is one of the most cost-effective ways to refresh the room. Additionally, she says paint is the most inexpensive option to update cabinets, and there is a de-glosser on the market that will reduce the labor involved by helping paint adhere to cabinets.
“You can get a whole new kitchen with some fresh paint,” Tamara says.
In the bathroom, Tamara suggests putting up new light fixtures and wallpaper for a fresh look. She suggests using wallpaper on just one wall to create contrast.
“Wallpaper transforms everything and puts in a hominess factor,” Tamara says.
To give a new feel to the living room, Tamara suggests using decorative pillows as well as displaying design books and layering with a candle or other interesting object to create a sentimental focal point. She also suggests investing in good, quality sofas
HGTV star shares her secrets to make a home look both beautiful and livable.
and rugs because less expensive options will not typically withstand the amount of wear and tear they receive from a family.
Overall, Tamara says there is a balance between mixing expensive and inexpensive items and materials around the home, all without having it looking cluttered. She says every space needs something that is thrifted.
Tamara finds many people enjoy elements of different types of styles and have a hard time defining their personal style. To help narrow down to a preferred look, she suggests taking a hundred room images and sorting them into piles of likes and dislikes. She says when someone completes this exercise, they typically find a theme to their preferences.
Tamara has a natural eye for using great colors and textures in design. What is her approach to making a room look great?
HERE ARE TAMARA’S TOP TIPS: Find a base color with pops of other colors.
“Every room needs a touch of black and a pop of color,” Tamara says. “The black will anchor it, but the color will give it life.”
If the home is urban, she suggests more bold pops. If it is a traditional home, use a mixture of colors. Additionally, she suggests using one basic color throughout a home with pops of other colors as opposed to having a different color in each room.
Consider wallpaper.
“Wallpaper can be scary for a lot of people, but there are so may wallpapers out there that are removable,” Tamara says.
Tamara says wallpaper adds texture and warmth, and she includes it in most of the homes she designs.
Layer with baskets, blankets and greenery. All three make a room feel cozy and add color and interest to a space.
Most of us can say we have that one staple black dress that can be worn at any occasion, and the classic look is not only popular but is elegant and timeless. It is the dress in our closet that can be accessorized to fit the event and often is the dress we go back to time and again. It is one of the most versatile items we own, never goes out of style and looks good on anyone. But how did this classic look originate?
Prior to the 1920’s, black was reserved for funeral wear, but when Coco Channel made the bold move to print a short, black dress on the cover of Vogue in 1926, all of that changed. The popularity of the black dress skyrocketed, and it became one of the most influential pieces of clothing. Chanel transported fashion from tight corsets and bustles to straight-lined silhouettes. Because of its affordability, black remained a popular choice during The Great Depression. The black dress had another boom in popularity when “Breakfast at Tiffany’s’’ debuted, and Audrey Hepburn showcased her iconic black dress with long, black gloves. Today, people accessorize the black dress to fit any occasion.
We enlisted the help of stylist, Amani Skalacki, to show us how versatile the little black dress can be.
“We usually think of the little black dress as a piece you wear to an event. However, because black is so flattering on all body types and skin tones, women have multiple black dresses from casual to evening,” Amani says.
Although black is a timeless, classic look, that doesn’t mean it goes without personality. You can make it your own style by accessorizing to infuse new life into a dress that you already own.
“A sequin dress can be dressed up with heels, or that same dress can be transformed into a casual outfit with the addition of tennis shoes and an oversized blazer or a denim jacket. Transform that strappy dress you have been wearing all summer into an outfit that is perfect for chilly fall temperatures. Add a narrow scarf, a leather jacket and sandals or a tall pointy boot, and you have a whole new look for an evening out,” Amani adds.
If you have a dress in the back of your closet that you haven’t worn in years, don’t be afraid to dust it off and give it new life. “Take that evening gown you wore years ago to a tailor for a little transformation. Turn it into a high low dress-top that can be worn out with girlfriends or on a date night. Pair the top with leather leggings, ankle boots, a chunky belt and some statement jewelry, and now you have a piece that pushes the boundaries of the little black dress.”
Are you looking for the best cut or style of dress that works best for your body type? Amani provided this simple guide:
HOURGLASS FIGURE:
• V-necklines
• Cinched-in waistlines
• Tailored/fitted dresses
PEAR OR TRIANGLE FIGURE:
• Tailored dresses
• Off the shoulder
ATHLETIC FIGURE:
• Embellished
• Ruffles
• Empire waist
• Volume is your friend
APPLE FIGURE:
• Drop waist
• A-line
The dress that all body types can’t go wrong with is a wrap dress of any length.
A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.
SEPTEMBER 8TH
Manna Resource Center Nonprofit Fundraiser - Transformed: Empowered Together
LONE TREE ARTS CENTER | 6:00 PM
Attend this fundraiser to celebrate Manna’s impact on the community and to contribute to its ongoing mission. Manna is a faith-based nonprofit organization that was incorporated to strengthen individuals and families in Douglas and Arapahoe County. Dinner, silent auction, live program and paddle raise. MannaResourceCenter.org
SEPTEMBER 8TH - 9TH
Highlands Ranch Pioneer Days
HIGHLANDS RANCH MANSION | 9:00 AM
When the Old West comes to life. This event offers a variety of hands-on educational opportunities that are perfect to get children engaged with local history. Explore everything from fur trapping and exploring what pelts settlers used for trade to panning for gold. Tickets are sold at the gate. Find out more in the Events section of HighlandsRanch.org .
SEPTEMBER 9TH
Enchanted Forest Festival
CIVIC GREEN PARK | 12:00 PM
Presented by Highlands Ranch Concert Band. Come enjoy a day of magical music and delightful activities that activate the imagination of all. Entertainment, food and beverage, classes and craft vendors. HRConcertBand.org
SEPTEMBER 16TH
Highlands Ranch Oktoberfest Celebration
TOWN CENTER SOUTH | 1:00 PM
Put on your lederhosen and join the festivities at the annual Highlands Ranch Oktoberfest Celebration. Admission is free and event is open to the public. Food, drink and game tickets are available for purchase. Event features include live music, dachshund races, entertainment for the kids and more. This is a community event you won't want to miss. Visit HRCAonline.org for details.
SEPTEMBER 28TH
Vintage & Vibrant
PARKER ARTS, CULTURE AND EVENTS CENTER | 8:00 AM
This day-long experience hosted by the Seniors' Council of Douglas County is filled with learning, socializing and plenty of fun. Following a continental breakfast attendees should expect lots of laughter as the morning keynote speaker Jeanne Nott, Ms. Colorado Senior America 2022, shares her wit and humor. Attendees can choose from several educational presentations throughout the day as well as interactive sessions. Call 303.660.7460 to register.
NOVEMBER 11TH - 19TH
Denver Fashion Week - Fall '23
VARIOUS DENVER LOCATIONS | 9:00 AM
Denver Fashion Week is Colorado’s largest fashion showcase featuring emerging designers, local boutiques, national brands, hairstylists, makeup artists and models. DenverFashionWeek.com for event and ticketing information.
INGREDIENTS
• 1 1/2 oz- Cucumber & dragon fruit gin
• 3/4oz- Toasted black sesame Velvet Falernum
• 1/2oz- Lime juice
• Topped with ginger beer
• Hawaiian black lava salt & black sesame
GARNISH
• Small paint brush
• Simple syrup
• Hawaiian black lava salt mixed with a pinch of black sesame
Infused Gin: Infuse 1 whole peeled and cut cucumber in gin for a week. Strain the cucumbers out. Add 1 tablespoon of organic dragonfruit powder and mix very well with a whisk. To make the syrup, toast 1/2 cup of black sesame at 350 for 10 minutes. Take it out and let it cool. In a mortar and pestle, grind the toasted black sesame, but not too fine. Add the sesame into one bottle of John D. Taylor’s Velvet Falernum. Let that set for about 2 to 3 days and use cheese cloth to strain out the fine bits of sesame. Juice one fresh lime and strain to remove the pulp.
Cocktail: Paint a strip of simple syrup down a Collins glass. Take a spoon full of Hawaiian black lava salt mixed with black sesame and layer that down where the painted simple syrup was placed. In a shaker tin combine: 1 1/2oz cucumber dragon fruit gin, 3/4oz toasted black sesame Velvet Falernum, and 1/2oz lime juice and shake that up! Fill the painted glass with ice (I use crushed ice) and strain over the ice. Top with your favorite ginger beer (my choice is fever tree ginger beer).
ARTICLE BY MATSUMOTO MARI PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONESSince 1950
Whether you want to design a new kitchen layout, give your primary bath a little face-lift, or think it’s time to tear out and start over, the residential remodeling contractors at Striking Kitchen and Bath by Bell have the expertise and skills to make your vision a reality.
When you’re ready for a Striking new kitchen and bath, trust the experts to provide you with timely and affordable solutions. They have been reimagining spaces for Denver-area homeowners since the early 1950s, and during that time have developed a reputation for exquisite design, high-quality craftsmanship, and exceptional attention to every detail.
Contact Striking today to schedule your complimentary design consultation. www.strikingremodels.com or 303-731-1294