
Queens of Our City






I don’t know about you, but I love any opportunity to recognize the women who add richness and beauty to my life. Our friends, mothers and daughters are some of the most influential women in our lives. Of course, with Mother’s Day this month, all eyes are on moms—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, teachers, friends and neighbors doing incredible things in our communities, pouring into our lives and making themselves unforgettable and irreplaceable.
With this in mind, we’ve partnered with Women100, a local nonprofit dedicated to empowering women to lead with purpose and impact, to create the Voices of Vision Award. This award, to be presented at the Women100 First Annual Gala on May 9, recognizes the achievements and impact of outstanding women in the community. We are thrilled to be sharing with you the stories of some of the nominees for this award on our social media pages and hope you’ll follow along there as well to help celebrate the amazing ladies that you’ve nominated, who’ve paved the way for all of us to thrive.
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. That’s one of my favorite parts of this role—connecting with and championing the best of the best when it comes to East Cincinnati. They are movers and shakers, 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.
I hope you’ll take a few minutes to send a text, make a phone call or get your kids on a video call with the women in your life who deserve recognition. It only takes a minute to brighten someone’s day and remind them how much you love them!
DEBORAH MEKENESE, PUBLISHER @INDIANHILL.CITYLIFESTYLE
Proudly serving Indian Hill, Mariemont, Madeira, Montgomery, Terrace Park and the Kenwood/Blue Ash Business District.
PUBLISHER
Deborah Mekenese
Deborah.Mekenese@CityLifestyle.com
EDITOR
Tera Michelson | Tera.Michelson@CityLifestyle.com
PUBLICATION MANAGER
Michelle Numann
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Lisa Fletcher, Bill Furbee, Kasey Johansen, Mindy Wester
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Amanda Donaho Photography, Amanda Lippert
Photography, Gary Kessler, RF Graphics, Mindy Wester
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford
LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
The best gift for your child isn’t wrapped in a bow— it’s financial security. From saving for education to teaching smart money habits, taking the right steps today can set them up for success tomorrow.
Start Saving Early Time is a powerful tool in building financial security. A 529 College Savings Plan offers tax advantages for education, while a Custodial Account provides flexibility. If your child has earned income, a Roth IRA introduces them to long-term investing.
Protect What Matters Most Life insurance provides stability in uncertain times, while estate planning ensures your wishes are followed. A trust can further safeguard assets for their future.
Teach Smart Money Habits Budgeting, saving, and responsible spending build lifelong confidence. Let’s plan together—visit fosterandmotley.com today!
1: Guests enjoyed tasty bites by Bailey Family Catering at the City Lifestyle Razzle Dazzle VIP Mingle. 2: Joe & Mary Baum & Amy Ostigny sample bubbles & boutique wines from Piazza Discepoli. 3: Debbie Porter & Andrea Anusbigian enjoy the Lifestyle event which featured a David Yurman giveaway. 4: Alison Shiver eyes the sparkling James Free Jewelers showroom at the Lifestyle VIP Mingle. 5: Indian Hill celebrates the signing of student-athletes Marley Cady, Aiden Faber, Elizabeth Fullen, Aidan Rippe & Grant Supinski. 6: Congratulations to the seven Indian Hill High School student-artists that earned accolades in the prestigious Governor’s Art Competition. 7: Indian Hill School District welcomed Sue Enquist to lead the fourth event in the Leadership Summit on The Hill series.
just minutes from downtown Cincinnati
Carolynn and Craig Reis, owners
Don’t miss the 47th annual Cincinnati Concours d’Elegance weekend. June 7 brings the Countryside Tour, a scenic driving tour of Cincinnati, and the exclusive Hangar Party at Lunken Airport to view exotic cars, motorcycles and private jets. June 8 features The Icons of British Motoring, showcasing more than 250 collector vehicles in the beauty of Ault Park, including Brunch and Beer Garden events. Tickets are available online. Proceeds benefit Juvenile Arthritis. OhioConcours.com
Celebrate and honor the women of your life with the gift of membership to The European Cafe Wine Society. Members receive two bottles per month, thoughtfully chosen for the season and a 10% discount for all retail wine purchases. Choose from two levels of membership, both including a special happy hour pick up event on the first Friday of each month with a tasting and light bites. 513.832.2100, Facebook.com/TheEuropeanCafeMontgomery
Monge & Associates celebrated the grand opening of their Cincinnati office at 8520 E. Kemper Road. The personal injury and accident law practice enjoyed a ribbon-cutting event hosted by the Montgomery Chamber of Commerce in March. Founded by attorney Scott Monge in 1993 in Atlanta, Monge & Associates defines itself by treating every client as they would expect their loved ones to be treated if they suffered a serious accident or injury. 513.224.5591, BecauseYouWanttoWin.com
Needlepoint is no longer a hobby of the past— it’s a vibrant, growing craft that’s bringing people together in new and exciting ways. In Cincinnati, Three Needles Stitchery is at the forefront of this movement, creating a space where stitchers of all skill levels can connect, learn and celebrate their shared passion. Founded by locals Nikki Daley, Anne Ellington and Jen Hall, Three Needles Stitchery launched in 2024 with the goal of uniting stitchers from around the country. Their first signature retreat, held at the Kenwood Country Club in February, exceeded all expectations, drawing 148 attendees from 22 states.
The idea for Three Needles Stitchery started with a simple yet powerful realization: Cincinnati needed a needlepoint retreat. Jen had previously hosted a breakfast gathering for stitchers, and the enthusiasm it generated convinced her, Nikki and Anne that a larger event could be a huge success. Each co-founder brings something unique to the table—Anne, the most experienced stitcher, has a passion for teaching; Jen is a talented designer with a thriving canvas line; and Nikki fell in love with needlepoint after learning from them both, drawn in by the craft’s mix of texture, color and creativity.
“Needlepoint has experienced an incredible resurgence,” Nikki explains. “Social media and the pandemic introduced it to a new generation, breaking the old stereotype that it
ARTICLE BY LISA FLETCHER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMANDA
LIPPERT PHOTOGRAPHY
was just for an older crowd. In reality, this is an incredibly social and supportive community. People crave real human connection, and needlepoint circles are bringing that back—real conversations, real friendships and no screens in sight.”
Their inaugural two-day retreat was designed for both beginners and seasoned stitchers, featuring hands-on stitching, vendors, happy hours and an exclusive swag bag. Local needlepoint stores opened their doors for private shopping events. Attendees had the option to take specialized classes, including a beading and decorative stitch workshop.
The response was overwhelming. Initially planned for around 50 attendees, the event quickly grew to nearly three times that number.
“The retreat brought together stitchers of all ages with a common love of needlepointing,” Anne explains. “The retreat brought so much joy and energy to the group, it was amazing to witness!"
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“The retreat brought together stitchers of all ages with a common love of needlepointing.”
- Anne Ellington
Jen shares that creating these retreats for people was a natural progression.
"We didn’t initially set out to create a business around needlepoint, but after receiving so much positive feedback and requests for future retreats, we realized there was a real desire for these events,” she explains. “We are thrilled with how it’s come together."
With such an incredible debut event, Three Needles Stitchery is already looking ahead. They plan to host a two-day signature retreat every February, with a one-day mini retreat each August. Though the company is focused on retreats for now, both Nikki and Jen run their own businesses—NikStitch and Jennifer Hall Needlepoint—selling canvases, threads and stitching accessories.
For those curious about needlepoint but unsure where to start, the co-founders encourage taking a beginner’s class with Jen or Anne.
“They’ll walk you through everything—from starting your canvas to mastering different stitching techniques,” Nikki says. “And they’ll keep answering your questions long after class is over.”
Ultimately, Three Needles Stitchery is about more than just needlepoint—it’s about building a community. Whether you’re a lifelong stitcher or just picking up a needle for the first time, this group welcomes you with open arms.
“You can create something truly unique, something you’re proud of,” Nikki says. “And in the process, you’ll meet some of the most wonderful, supportive people out there.”
Save the date for Three Needles Stitchery’s upcoming events: Mini Retreat–August 10, 2025 and the two-day Signature Retreat–February 27-28, 2026.
ThreeNeedlesStitchery.com
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"People crave real human connection, and needlepoint circles are bringing that back—real conversations, real friendships and no screens in sight.”
Nikki Daley of Three Needles Stitchery
ARTICLE BY TERA MICHELSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMANDA DONAHO PHOTOGRAPHY
There’s a movement afoot in our community— WOMEN100, a local nonprofit dedicated to empowering women to lead with purpose and impact, and Indian Hill City Lifestyle are partnering to celebrate it. The new Voices of Vision Award will honor a leader that is making a difference for women.
“Women are stepping up to opportunities and challenges that were once denied or even forbidden,” explains Kasey Johansen, WOMEN100 CEO. “This trajectory is changing the path of the future for our children. To achieve this future of progress and empowerment, we need to celebrate people in the community who are helping
to create small changes that are making big steps for women and girls.”
“We wanted to create an award to celebrate the female leaders in the community who are creating a new perspective for our daughters; those who've shown us that women are unique in their abilities to lead and that collaboration trumps competition,” adds Indian Hill City Lifestyle Publisher Deborah Mekenese.
The Voices of Vision Award winner will be announced at the upcoming WOMEN100 Gala on Friday, May 9, to be held at the Lytle Park Hotel.
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit WOMEN100Cincy.com
"I had Amy and her crew do 4 of my bathrooms recently Her crew was fabulous and did great work. They were very conscientious and considerate of us They understood that we were living through the whole process. I love my bathrooms!!" - Steph S
As one of the nation’s leading mental health centers, we understand each person’s journey is deeply personal. Bringing together unparalleled expertise, profound insights, and a people-first approach, we provide life-changing care and support, infusing every interaction with the underlying belief that lasting well-being is possible. We see beyond diagnoses — we see you.
ARTICLE BY TERA MICHELSON PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
A Dazzling Mother's Day Gift
Round Up for All Kinds of Moms
This Mother’s Day, give the important women in your life the queen treatment. Give a gift that tells her, “I love you!” every time she puts it on. James Free Jewelers' standout showroom is a local gem. Home to the finest collections made by world-class designers, you can count on quality and value in brands and styles that moms will recognize and adore for a lifetime. Find something special for all the different kinds of mothers, with prices you have to see to believe, in this dazzling Mother’s Day gift round up.
Join the experts at James Free Jewelers for a Mother’s Day Trunk Show on May 7, 4-8 p.m. Enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres as you meet representatives from featured designers. Receive a Mother’s Day gift with purchase.
James Free Jewelers | 9555 Main Street, Cincinnati | 513.793.0133 | JamesFree.com
The Classic Mom is sentimental and enjoys the staying power of timeless pieces that remind her of family milestone moments. Add to her diamond collection each year, one for each child or a new treasure marking each year of motherhood. James Free Jewelers has a generous diamond upgrade policy that allows trade-ins to increase carats.
The Fashionista Mom has her own distinct flair. Tradition meets modern in the Messika collection, a French jewelry collection made with unique craftsmanship that offers a new way of wearing diamonds every day. Embellish mom with a touch of sparkle.
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The Sophisticated Mom always knows just what to say…and to wear. Pearls and diamonds are a versatile match to her elegance. Mikimoto hand picks each pearl used in the collection. Their lariat necklace is a great gift because it matches every neckline.
The On-the-Go Mom is always on the move but never misses a game or carpool pickup. Match her active lifestyle, from the court to a night out, with an Oris Watch that can keep up with her. Choose from a selection of vivid colors that are as sweet as she is.
Welcome to the Penthouse at Edgecliff Point—an opportunity to create your dream home atop one of Cincinnati’s most sought-after residences. The entire 23rd floor is a blank canvas, with breathtaking city and river views from every room. Take a closer look - scan the QR code to learn more.
Women’s health issues are at the forefront at Onward Physical Therapy in Montgomery. Dr. Andrea Reed tackles pelvic floor issues with a proactive, customized women’s health plan. Her tailored treatments help women stay fit and on track with their favorite fitness activities. Dr. Reed answers our questions about pelvic floor health.
Q: WHY IS THERE SO MUCH STIGMA AROUND WOMEN’S PELVIC HEALTH ISSUES?
A: Women are not expected to talk about sexual health, perinatal or postpartum experiences - it's considered unladylike. We don't have as much information about women's bodies as men’s and that carries over to the treatments that are available. Thankfully, women are becoming more proactive about asking for treatment options, instead of just waiting for providers to suggest them.
Dr.
ARTICLE BY TERA MICHELSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY RF GRAPHICS
Q: WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO TALK ABOUT PELVIC HEALTH?
A: One in four women report experiencing at least one pelvic floor disorder. Unfortunately, these symptoms are often dismissed as “normal” due to their prevalence. Just because they’re common doesn’t mean you have to live with them! Onward is here to empower women and give them hope.
Q: WHAT SYMPTOMS SHOULD WOMEN BE LOOKING FOR?
A: The symptoms that women might have are: leaking, pelvic discomfort like feelings of heaviness, bulging or feeling like they might have a tampon inserted. A lot of women have no idea what it is, and they have no idea that it can be treated.
Q: WHAT ARE THE TREATMENT OPTIONS?
A: Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy is a lot about learning about your own body: are you doing what you think you're doing with your pelvic floor? And then, when we get the coordination right, we can work on strength. We learn different techniques to mitigate pressure. We look at techniques, position, modifying weight and more.
Q: DO MOST WOMEN HAVE A SUCCESSFUL RESPONSE TO TREATMENTS?
A: Yes—absolutely, yes. There’s evidence that education can have a huge impact on symptoms. We could just have a virtual appointment and a conversation and that alone could actually impact women's lives in a huge way. Women can be thriving in the perinatal space instead of feeling held back.
Contact Dr. Andrea Reed at Onward Physical Therapy to discuss your pelvic health or birth wellness journey. Onward’s fitness forward approach can prepare your body to get back to doing what you love to do.
Onward Physical Therapy | 10004 Montgomery Road, Cincinnati | 513.800.0848 OnwardPhysicalTherapy.com/cincinnati/
As Mother’s Day approaches, it’s time to go beyond traditional gifts As Mother’s Day approaches, it’s time to go beyond traditional gifts and express your love with a feast for the senses. Create a captivating and vibrant charcuterie board that brings together a symphony of sweet and savory delights, edible rosettes and an array of delectable treats that are as pleasing to the eyes as they are to the palate. At the heart of this spectacular spread, a bouquet of floral offerings takes center stage featuring assorted chocolate florets, delicate white rose wafers, and salami and cheese blossoms. Perfectly crafted and delicious, they establish the visual and gastronomic theme for the
entire display. Accompanying the spread are glasses adorned with edible floral rims, beckoning you to sip and savor the essence of spring; dried lavender, marigold, rose, lemon peel and lily garnishes provide vibrancy and are entirely edible. Elevate the visual appeal with rosefolded napkins and a sprinkle of seasonal flowers atop layers of fresh greenery.
Complement your floral artistry with a curated variety of cheeses, prosciutto, colorful olives, fresh blueberries and strawberries, and candied oranges. Fragrant rosemary bread is perfectly paired with choice preserves, honey and olive oil.
Extend the creative flair to pastries, introducing a variety of shapes, colors and textures. Citrus-infused sugar cookies,
raspberry tarts, mini strawberry Belgian waffles and salted caramels are visually alluring and add an extra layer of delight to the overall presentation.
The beauty of crafting a charcuterie board lies in its versatility – an opportunity to showcase your thoughtfulness and create an experience tailored to your loved ones. Consider swapping chocolates for macarons, experiment with your own garden herbs and infuse your spread with unique seasonal and local flavors. A charcuterTEA is a delightful way to make your mother feel extra special. Simply fill a teacup with her favorite confections and unique flavor combinations for an individual experience of love and gratitude.
Women are not just participating in construction; they are leading it.
“I really enjoy owning a design and construction business,” says Amy Ostigny of Designing with Amy. “It’s having the ability to bring ideas to life.”
These past five years, Ostigny and her skilled crew of 30 have completed more than a thousand residential and commercial projects throughout the Tristate area. Now, she has begun work on national jobs with a traveling team.
“Last year we did 200 construction projects,” Ostigny shares. “It has been quite a fun journey making beautiful homes!”
Ostigny’s team has built its winning reputation on top-notch design, bathroom and kitchen remodeling, interior and exterior painting, home additions and new builds.
Ostigny graduated from the University of Cincinnati’s College of Design, Architecture, Art and Planning. She has since served as president of both that school’s board and of the national Commercial Real Estate Women Network. She is a member of the Homebuilder’s Association of Greater Cincinnati.
“Achieving success in design and construction has completely shifted my perspective,” Ostigny says. “Not just professionally, but personally. It has shown me the power of perseverance, the importance of trusting my vision and the value of showing up with confidence, even in the spaces where I may be underestimated.”
Ostigny eagerly offers guidance for other women who might be considering chasing down their own lofty dreams.
“Stay true to yourself,” she advises. “Authenticity fosters genuine relationships, and allows you to bring unique perspectives to your projects.”
Ostigny is proving that construction is not just a man’s world. The construction industry is about skill, intelligence and leadership–qualities that women bring in abundance.
“The progress made by women in construction is undeniable,” says Ostigny. “With continued support, the construction industry will become a field where talent and determination matter more than gender.”
Designing With Amy | 513.403.0301 | 8315 Beechmont Avenue, Suite 5, Anderson Township | DesigningWithAmy.com
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“Achieving success in design and construction has completely shifted my perspective.”
- Amy Ostigny
ARTICLE BY KASEY JOHANSEN
She’s always taking care of everyone else, now it’s time to treat Mom to a stylish day! This Mother's Day, embrace an authentic style with outfits that reflect her personality and make her feel fabulous, proving that being a mom can be stylish and empowering.
KASEY JOHANSEN
Personal Stylist at KC CONSULTING & CEO/Founder of WOMEN100 Dedicated to empowering women to discover their authentic style and embrace confidence. KCConsultingStyle.com
Take a Break with Lilias Folan: Mother, Grandmother, Yogi to the Nation
Decades before the popularity of the modern-day social influencer, longtime Indian Hill resident Lilias Folan was championing self-care and mental health in the practice of yoga. Now, as an 89-year-old mother and grandmother, she continues a daily practice and lives with gratefulness.
As a busy spouse and young mother of two, Lilias found refuge in the stretching, breathing and postures of yoga in community classes in 1964 New York. Her love of the practice deepened as she experienced its uplifting health benefits.
“Before I started a yoga practice, I was feeling kind of out of it,” says Lilias. “After my very first class, I felt so
much better—not just physically, but emotionally. Yoga helped me to start to breathe properly and move intelligently.”
With the support of her husband, Lilias traveled to India for a month of intensive study and returned a committed yogi. Following their family’s move to Indian Hill in 1968, Lilias was teaching a class at a Cincinnati-area Y, and was discovered by a popular producer, whose spouse had attended and enjoyed her teaching. She became the host of a weekly television show, “Lilias, Yoga and You,” first broadcast on WCET Cincinnati in 1970.
“I never thought of it as a ‘show,’” explains Lilias. “I was teaching to the red light on the camera, knowing there were students on the other side that needed to stretch, breathe and take a break. It was a spiritual experience. Somehow, the universe was there with me, and we did a class together. It was an otherworldly gift.”
By 1973, the popular program was picked up by public television stations across the country, introducing yoga to a national audience. The familiar face and soothing voice of Lilias was welcomed into American living rooms through 1999, making yoga accessible to people of all body types and situations. Coined “The First Lady of Yoga,” Lilias demystified the ancient practice with inviting, step-by-step instructions. Her goal was never fame or fortune, but to share the gift of yoga.
“During her time at WCET, she was a volunteer,” explains Matt Folan, Lilias’ son. “She had a calling to share her center through yoga. She taught a class through the camera.”
Still today, the quintessential teacher, mother and grandmother continues to invite others to join her in practice, wherever they are.
“Yoga is not exotic—although it can be full of wonderful, fun postures, it can be as simple as stretching at your basket at Kroger, breathing or even yawning,” Lilias says.
“She still inspires us every single day,” shares Lesley Folan, Lilias’ daughter-in-law. “She is so genuine—she is yoga: she embodies yoga and the spirituality of it.”
“At the heart of Lilias is her spiritual journey,” Matt adds. “As her son, she has helped me have a wide perspective on spirituality and life. I’m thankful for my moment on this planet. It has been a journey of love and compassion.”
Lilias gives permission to pause, take a deep breath and stretch our bodies and minds before we push forward.
“Yoga will give you a pop of energy to go on and do what you have to do next,” Lilias advises. “A wonderful stretch is such a blessing. The whole body goes, ‘Thank you, thank you, thank you!’”
MAY 2025
THURSDAYS
Fountain Square, Cincinnati | 6:00 PM
Put on your dancing shoes for Salsa on the Square, each Thursday, May-September. Enjoy the tunes of local Latin bands specializing in Salsa, Merengue, Cumbia and Latin Jazz music. Learn moves from local dance instructors. Come for Happy Hour and get $1 off adult beverages. No tickets required. Sponsored by Procter & Gamble and Fifth Third Bank. MyFountainSquare.com
MAY 2ND - 4TH
Downtown Cincinnati
Don’t miss this epic Cincinnati event! Whether you are a runner, walker or cheerleader, you are invited to ham it up at this year’s Flying Pig Marathon. Choose from a lineup of events to match your interests. Find details about the weekend’s schedule and how to get involved online. FlyingPigMarathon.com
MAY 4TH
Laurel Avenue, Madeira | 11:00 AM
Browse the booths of the annual Madeira Art Fair for unique, handmade goods crafted by regional artisans, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Proceeds from the event benefit the Madeira Woman’s Club Scholarship Program. Smadams45. wixsite.com/madeirawomansclub
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MAY 9TH
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WOMEN100 Gala
Lytle Park Hotel, Cincinnati | 6:00 PM
Join local nonprofit WOMEN100 as they honor local women that are making a difference in our community. The exclusive, black-tie gala on the rooftop of the Lytle Park Hotel will feature a “New Hollywood” theme and vintage Hollywood experiences. The Voices of Vision Award and Community Connection Grant winners will be announced. Dinner will be served. Purchase tickets online. WOMEN100Cincy.com
MAY 16TH - 24TH
May Festival
Music Hall, Cincinnati
The renowned, annual two-week choral festival at Music Hall will be directed by Grammy Award-winning soprano Renée Fleming. Enjoy Fleming’s series of programs that explore the depths of the human experience in song. Festival subscription packages and individual tickets are available for purchase online. MayFestival.com
MAY 23RD
Livingston Park, Indian Hill | 10:00 AM
Kids of all ages are invited to enjoy an interactive touch-a-truck event. Explore and learn about the many different vehicles that serve our community. This family-friendly event goes from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. at Livingston Park in the Village. IndianHill.gov