No contracts or packages
No high-pressure sales – EVER!
Locally family-owned for over 20 years
Licensed RNs
10+ Brand new lasers
1,000+ Google ratings
Eric & Kaitlyn Leiker, Owners
Letter from the Editor
September is our fashion and style issue, and 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, or the way we worship, 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. It 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 and commonalities.
As individuals, we have the freedom to embrace established styles, blend them together, or forge entirely new paths. We hope this issue inspires you. There is so much here in Johnson County to 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.
This month we are also celebrating our 14th anniversary of Johnson County City Lifestyle magazine. I have been lucky enough to be the helm as editor for 9 of those 14 years, and have had the privilege of sharing so much of what makes our community special with you. As we look ahead to the future, we are excited to continue our mission of bringing you the good news of the community and the stories that matter most. We love hearing from readers, so don’t hesitate to drop me a note and let me know what you want to see more of in the coming months.
Happy (almost) fall!
ANGELA BROOCKERD, EDITOR @JOHNSONCOUNTYCITYLIFESTYLE
September 2024
PUBLISHER
Cristine Lindholm | Cristine@CityLifestyle.com
EDITOR
Angela Broockerd | angela.broockerd@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Angela Broockerd, Joni Johnson, Jenny Vergara, Lauren Powers, Allison Swan
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Janie Jones, Paul Versluis
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
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F A V O R I T E M E D S P A S F O R 2 0 2 4 !
Refresh Med Spa would like to thank our clients for the continued support throughout the years. This is direct representation of the community we strive to cultivate. Our loyal clientele and team members dedication to education and customer experience is what has made our upcoming relocation possiblecoming later in Fall of 2024!
Model Hanno Raik
Kansas City Fashion Week 2024
Featuring local, national and international designers, KCFW is two weeks of premier runway shows, enabling designers to collaborate with seasoned stylists, make-up artists, models and photographers to present their collections. This year's events take place September 21st-28th at Union Station. For tickets visit https:// kcfashionweek.com/ss2024tickets
Scratch Gourmet Kitchen earns 2024 Wine Spectator Restaurant Award
Scratch Gourmet Kitchen has been honored for its outstanding wine program in Wine Spectator’s 2024 Restaurant Awards, which celebrate the world’s best restaurants for wine. The Award of Excellence recipients display excellent breadth across multiple winegrowing regions and/or significant vertical depth of top producers, along with superior presentation.
XO HIFI
ARTICLE BY JENNY VERGARA PHOTOGRAPHY BY @IVYWILDVISUALS
During the day it is easy to drive right by XO HiFi, Kansas City’s newest cocktail and snack bar with a high-fidelity sound system located on the Westside, and not even realize you’ve passed it -- and that is all by design.
“The idea of discovery and anonymity became the design concept for the XO experience.”
Noah Manos, founder of the design-build company, Paper Airplane, located in Denver Colorado is the owner and design partner behind XO. He said he bought the lot that housed Mr. Brook’s garage on the Westside, but he initially had no plans to do anything with the building.
After meeting people who live in the Westside neighborhood, like Will and Ellen Trakas, who own Trakas + Trakas, a local architectural firm, who helped Manos execute the paperwork needed for his new space, they encouraged him to listen to what the neighbors wanted to see there. Manos did, and recruited business partners to help bring his vision for XO to life. He reached out to Will Minter and Mitch Foster who also own ESP, a high-fidelity listening lounge in Denver,
and convinced them to partner with him to open his own 30-seat HiFi vinyl lounge here.
“Coming from Denver, we’ve lived through a 15-year period of growth where we had outside developers coming into our neighborhoods and start building without understanding the culture of what was already there. That is how erasure can occur in a neighborhood,” says Manos. “I kept that experience in mind when talking to people from the Westside. I thought, how can I retool my idea, and create something cool and meaningful for the Westside. That is really what anchors the whole design ethos of XO. How do we preserve the fabric of the building that is already there, but also elevate it and create a new context for its next life?”
The HiFi listening lounge has its origins in Japan. Kissas or kissaten are intimate listening rooms found in Tokyo, where listening to new music on an excellent sound system is often given more thought (and budget) than the atmosphere or even the menu. Here is where you can hear a deep cut from an album you may have never heard before with incredible sound quality and clarity. Today, they are referred to as “HiFi bars” in the U.S. and offered with some food and drink.
“What was most interesting about the original building was how anonymous it was. The garage blended in with its surroundings, and it had two very tiny windows. You could easily drive by and never notice it,” explains Manos. “The idea of discovery and anonymity became the design concept for the XO experience. That is where the breeze block screen that covers the front windows on the outside of the building came from. It was intended to peak someone’s interest about what was inside with its solid appearance. XO is not a speakeasy or a clandestine thing that you have to get access to, it is for everyone, but we wanted to feed that joy of discovery for our guests.”
Once inside of XO at night, something magical happens. When it gets dark there is a single streetlight across the street and between that, and the cars that drive by with their headlights on, the light projects through the breeze block and shimmers across the walls of the bar in interesting shapes and patterns that continue to change throughout the evening.
“XO is not a speakeasy or a clandestine thing that you have to get access to, it is for everyone, but we wanted to feed that joy of discovery for our guests.”
Made for true audiophiles—XO guests come ready to settle in for a drink and some food as a wave of sound ebbs and flows throughout the space around them. In addition to the music selections, ESP also manages the bar program at XO, that has a list of cocktails on tap, beer and a natural wine list.
Local James Beard Award nominee for outstanding chef, Johnny Leach, has developed the food menu for XO, where he is serving Japaneseinspired snacks like edamame dip with fried yuba chips, Agedashi tofu with daikon radish
and shimeji mushroom, salmon crudo donburi, or rice bowl, and two delicious sandwiches that have everyone talking --- a nori egg salad sandwich on milk bread and a delicious pork curry katsu sandwich.
Come with your listening ears on and prepare to sit back and enjoy the curated selection of music, food and drinks in the flickering shadows of the breeze block at XO.
XO HiFi, 709 West 17th Street, Kansas City, Missouri, xohifi.com
Lived-In Elegance
ARTICLE BY JAMIE SEGALL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
with Stacey Neely of NEELYHOME
If you have been thinking about refreshing your home and are wanting to create a space that feels both elegant and comfortable, look no further. Get inspired by this functional yet sophisticated Leawood home that belongs to designer and owner of NEELYHOME, Stacey Neely.
When it comes to Stacey’s home, it is the definition of “Lived-In Elegance,” which just so happens to be the way she describes her aesthetic and approach to design projects as well. This home is what Pinterest dreams are made of, equipped with stunning luxury finishes and natural materials that make for a beautiful yet comfortable space. Stacey’s approach is most certainly by design as functionality is important to her. “I begin with beautiful finishes and then determine how to add in functional pieces, which we all need. One thing that is especially important to me is to have the ability to enjoy space and then have a swift pick-up back to order,” Stacey said.
Some of the notable features in the home that lend to functionality are the built-in wood storage next to the fireplace that makes for a cozy and unique feel, plenty of comfortable seating on carefully selected pieces that are sophisticated yet inviting, and a small amount of manageable greenery that warm up the space.
When it comes to the home, there is a lot to love from neutral tones and great natural light to unique decorations and furnishings, but when it comes to what element is most beloved – it’s all about the stone backsplash. “There's just no way to not feel cozy here," Stacey said. “Our area has a very broad price range in real estate, and it was important for me to create beautiful, impactful changes while staying within a reasonable budget for the neighborhood,” she continued.
One hope Stacey has for those who come into her home is that visitors not only feel comfortable and at peace but also notice and appreciate the aesthetics. “Great pieces should support style and comfort,” Stacey said.
“I want people to know that a beautiful and well-functioning home can be achieved,” Stacey continued. So, if you are looking to create a similar space, Stacey’s tips include using a designer to alleviate some of the stress and make the experience more enjoyable overall. A designer can help take some of the guesswork out of the process as they bring knowledge and resources to find exactly what you want.
Stacey shared a peek behind the curtain as a designer and what the process looks like for helping clients get the home of their dreams. “After getting to know the client, hearing what is important, understanding the scope of the project and budget I get to work finding functional and interesting pieces. Kansas City is full of incredible resources for all styles. Some people want mostly new performance pieces whereas others enjoy vintage, custom and classic pieces – for example, for a current project, we are using antique doors from Belgium,” Stacey shared.
“I want people to know that a beautiful and well-functioning home can be achieved.”
If you are feeling inspired by this design mindset, and the lovely space created by Stacey, give her a follow-on Instagram @_neelyhome_. Follow along to see more design projects and how a functional and beautiful home can become a reality. NEELYHOME offers furnishing and décor selections, renovations, and paint, lighting, and flooring consultations. Visit https://neelysrock.wixsite. com/neelyhome-1 for more information.
STRETCHING TO KEEP ON TRACK
TRAN S I T IONAL
FASHION
ARTICLE BY EVE IRVIN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Dressing for this time of year can be tricky with the changing temperatures. These classic, neutral pieces are perfect for this transitional season and transition from day to evening or work to a night out.
This matching sweater set is the perfect attire for those 12 hour days.
Dress this champagne tank and pleated pant up for a work daytime look by adding a cream or denim jacket.
Opposite: Outfit set and shoes: Alysa Rene Boutique
This Page:
Top: Dear Society Pants: Dear Society Shoes: Clothology Jewelry VanBrock
This light, flattering top and skirt can be dressed down with a pair of sandals or booties or dressed up with kitten heels.
Top and skirt-Dear Society Belt-Alysa Rene Boutique Jewelry- VanBrock
A monotone piece, this can be dressed-up with cowgirl boots. Use a belt to cinch your waist for sculpting.
Top and Jeans: Shop LadyCo. Belt and Purse: Alysa Rene Boutique
Pair this printed blouse and straightlegged jean with a silver ballet flat to transition from work to a night out. For a looser look, unbutton to wear off shoulder.
Top: ShopLadyCo Jeans:
Clothology Shoes: Clairvaux
Jewelry: VanBrock
Add a blazer to this navy pantsuit with pinstripes for work or happy hour. To dress it down, pair it with a flat or sneaker.
Set: Clairvaux
Shoes: Alysa Rene Boutique
Jewelry: VanBrock
For this patterned dress, throw a neutral sweater for cool fall days or dress it up in the evening by wearing it as is for a night out. Everyone needs a little black dress for any occasion. A fun way to spice it up is by adding a metallic belt.
Dress: Dear Society Shoes-Boots: Clothology
Shoot Credits:
Tatum Ernt
Stylist: Evelyn Irvin and Clere Irvin
Location: The Truitt
Top and Jeans: Shop LadyCo. Belt and Purse: Alysa Rene Jewelry: VanBrock
Models: Hanno Raik
Fall's 5 Biggest Trends
POWER REDS
ARTICLE BY JONI JOHNSON |
BY PAUL VERSLUIS
From casual wear to shoes, red is the must-have color this season! Go bold with a head-to-toe look, or enhance a neutral outfit with a standout accessory. In Kansas City, this trend is a sure hit.
PREP SCHOOL
The resurgence of the Rugby Polo and track pants is bringing back high school memories. This trend features an abundance of stripes, polos, loafers, and a lot of navy. These timeless pieces are great investments that can be styled for many seasons to come.
PHOTOGRAPHY
With Joni Johson of Clairvaux
PATTERN PLAY
Fall '24 is all about redefining tradition. This season, expect to see a deliberate blend of fabrics and patterns in garments like blazers, dresses, and denim. Take this custom ELV blazer, for example—crafted from two different fabrics that harmonize perfectly. Pieces like this elevate an outfit from good to great.
RODEO CHIC
Country is cool again, and we're loving the nods to horses, cowboy boots, and lasso-inspired details. Denim skirts paired with tall boots and western-inspired knits create an incredibly versatile look. Be sure to add a statement belt to your fall shopping list—it really completes the outfit.
WALLFLOWER PRINTS
Who says florals are only for spring? This fall, expect to see floral prints trending in moody colors and heavier fabrics. Pair them with rich textures like leather or suede to ground these feminine florals and add a striking contrast to your outfits.
ARTICLE BY LAUREN POWERS
Take Me Out to the Ballgame
Kauffman Stadium is rolling out an array of new seating options and offers this season, promising to elevate your game day experience. From all-inclusive food and drink deals to unique viewing spots, here’s a look at what’s new at The K.
Get ready for the ultimate game day experience with the QT Fountain Deck. Nestled in front of the iconic fountains in right field, this exclusive section boasts two rows of prime seats, perfect for catching home-run balls and maybe even chatting with players.
But the QT Fountain Deck is more than just a great view. Enjoy all-you-caneat food and drinks in your own private catered area, featuring a mouth-watering menu of hot dogs, nachos, hot appetizers, and a variety of domestic and imported beers and seltzers. With prices starting at just $91 for seated row tickets and $81 for standing room, this spot is ideal for a breezy Sunday afternoon. You might even end up on the jumbotron. For those looking to make a big impression, you can exclusively buy out the entire section up to 60 days in advance.
If convenience and value are what you’re after, the Lexus Complete Seats are perfect for you. Located in sections 324 and 325, this fan-favorite area offers an all-inclusive experience that’s ideal for families and groups. Starting as low as $53 per ticket, you’ll enjoy unlimited access to a food and beverage stand stocked with ballpark staples like hot dogs, nachos with deluxe toppings, popcorn, and fountain drinks. This all-in-one package ensures a hassle-free outing, allowing you to focus on the fun and excitement of the game.
Kauffman’s newest edition is the Brew & View located in left field. These seats are a great affordable option starting at $17 and include a 24oz domestic beer or bottled water. This lively section, accommodating up to 170 people across three rows, features general admission drink rails and stadium seats, perfect for mingling and soaking in the game day atmosphere.
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Kauffman Stadium is ensuring that every fan can find the perfect way to enjoy Kansas City Royals games this season.
view and easy accessibility, making it a top choice for fans who want to comfortably enjoy the game. With in-seat service provided by a Kauffman Stadium server, you can sit back, relax, and savor every moment. The Tavern Table package includes one custom specialty pizza, a bucket of four beers, and access to an exclusive mobile ordering menu.
Perfect for families or groups, the Sunday 4-Pack includes four tickets, four hot dogs, four sodas, and parking. Starting at just $60, this package is a hit with kids and provides great value for a fun-filled day at the ballpark.
With no assigned seats, you can simply show up, grab your beer, and find a spot at a drink rail or in a seat within the area. Brew & View is perfect for both groups and solo fans, with group tickets available for a minimum of 15 people and single tickets also on offer.
If you’re looking to elevate your Royals experience, check out the brand-new Tavern Tables. Located in section 239, these exclusive tables are sold in groups of four and include four tickets, four beers, and a custom pizza. With limited availability, this area offers an unbeatable
For fans looking to enjoy the game without breaking the bank, this season the Royals have launched a new Value Menu that offers unbeatable deals on classic ballpark treats. Available at various general concession stands, you can score a beer, hot dog, pretzel, popcorn, or soda all less than $5 each.
With these exciting new seating options and offers, Kauffman Stadium is ensuring that every fan can find the perfect way to enjoy Kansas City Royals games this season. Whether you’re seeking an all-inclusive experience, a lively spot to mingle, or family-friendly deals, there’s something for everyone at The K for an unforgettable game day!
hacks HAIR
Part the top half of the hair in two sections. Create fishtail braids (or braids of choice) and tie them together in the back of the hair. Add a fashion accessory around a ponytail for a little extra fun!
Braids to Keep You Chic All Year Long
Braids are a great way to add style and uniqueness to your hair style rotation and have been a staple in hair styles dating back to 3500 B.C. This historical hairstyle is here to stay, so we wanted to share some go-to impressive looks.
Part the hair down the center or side part, if preferred. Create braid(s) on the side of the head and secure with elastic. Twist the hair with braids into a simple bun, securing it with hair pins. Add an accessory for a classy touch.
fishtail simple braids updo reverse
ARTICLE BY ABBI SULASKI
PHOTOGRAPHY BY POPPY & CO. BY KELSEY HUFFER
GILLETT HEALTH
ARTICLE BY ALLISON SWAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Dr. Mark L Gillett, MD, is a distinguished family physician who has dedicated his career to helping patients of all ages achieve and maintain optimal health.
Growing up in Kansas, Dr. Gillett knew early on that he wanted to pursue a career in family medicine, driven by a passion for supporting the wellbeing of individuals across all stages of life.
Dr. Gillett earned his degree from the University of Kansas School of Medicine, laying a strong foundation for his medical career. He then completed a three year residency in family medicine at the University of Texas, honing his skills and deepening his commitment to patient care. Following his residency, he worked in emergency departments in Texas for two years, gaining valuable experience in acute care.
Dr. Gillett's journey continued as he joined College Park Family Care Center, where he served as a primary care physician. His dedication to his patients and leadership qualities led him to serve as chief medical officer of this esteemed medical group for many years. During this time, he enjoyed the unique experience of working alongside his son, Dr. Kyle Gillett, who is also board certified in Family Medicine and Obesity Medicine. Together, they provided comprehensive care, with Dr. Kyle delivering babies for some of the patients Dr. Gillett had originally delivered two decades earlier.
As Dr. Gillett's practice grew, he faced the challenges typical of many primary care physicians.
“I knew I wanted to be a family physician so I could help patients of all ages live healthy lives,” says Dr. Gillett. “My traditional medical practice had grown to the point I was fully booked for more than
a year. It was getting hard to take care of thousands of patients, which is typical for most primary care physicians. After health insurance companies began putting more restrictions on what imaging studies, lab tests and medications they would help pay for, Kyle started Gillett Health, which is a concierge and direct primary care practice. These types of services require a membership and don't replace traditional health insurance. It takes healthcare to a new, higher level.”
Dr. Gillett embraced this new model that allows him to spend more time with each patient.
“After recently joining Gillett Health with my son and a group of outstanding providers and staff, I have decided to limit my practice to only about five hundred patients. I plan to spend the next 10-15 years practicing medicine in this manner, as I really enjoy being able to spend a lot more time with each patient, focusing on helping them achieve their goals of vigorous health. Testing available through Gillett Health makes it much easier for me to customize an individualized medicine program for each person.”
This comprehensive testing enables them to customize care plans based on each patient's unique factors.
“In my previous practice, it was often a struggle to get insurance companies to pay for the needed testing in order to figure out why my patients did not feel like they were reaching their full health potential. At Gillett Health it is easier for me to evaluate each person's particular metabolic, genetic, environmental, nutritional and other unique factors in order to come up with a plan to help them achieve a more energetic, optimal state of full health.
“I knew I wanted to be a family physician so I could help patients of all ages live healthy lives.”
“The lab, imaging and medication discounts available through Gillett Health allow me to evaluate health concerns in greater depth for a fraction of what these tests often cost through traditional medical insurance companies. This allows me to treat my patients very effectively. This new approach allows me to take someone's medical evaluation to a significantly higher level, and enables a person to actually be restored to good health rather than just be prescribed medication to try to partially cover up the symptoms of underlying health problems.”
Dr. Gillett shares personalized tips for his patients wanting a happier, healthier life.
“I am able to focus on what we like to call the “Pillars of Good Health.” These
include various techniques to help achieve great sleep, focusing on eating the right amounts of the right foods for each person's individual metabolism, getting the right amount of the proper kinds of exercise at a level of intensity that is appropriate for that particular person and managing stress by paying attention to social, spiritual, emotional and psychological aspects of life. For example, volunteering at a charity aligned with an individual's own values, from time to time, often pays tremendous dividends in a person's overall social outlook and enjoyment of life.”
Gillett Health is located at 6807 West 121st Street in Leawood. For more information, visit gilletthealth.com
Custom Homes
Barnhouse is a family-owned design + build company focused on new construction- from traditional stick-built or modified timber frame homes to pre-engineered steel or pole barn structures. Specializing in modern farm homes, Barnhouse harvests old barns to utilize reclaimed timbers and barn board to provide an enriching contemporary country feel. After building a foundation on open communication and honesty, Barnhouse helps bring visions to life.
