Kirkwood, MO May 2024

The Ladies’ Issue

The Women’s Issue

I have a question. Who inspires you to leave your comfort zone and try something new? How would your kids describe you? What is something you still have from your childhood? Besides your family, what is something you cherish? Describe your best friend.

These are some of the questions we asked the women profiled in this issue. One question in particular struck a chord with me; “What would you do if you had one day to yourself?” It has been a long time since I’ve had one day to myself. And, let’s be honest if you have dogs, there will NEVER be ANY day you have ALL to yourself - it’s their world, we just live in it - and occasionally, we have to move over on the couch to give them more room.

But a few weeks ago, I had the entire weekend to myself. My husband went on a men’s retreat. The kids were firing on all cylinders. Aging parents were doing good. Laundry was done. Plants were watered; I remember a time when life was so busy all my plants died because “water the plants” was on page 232 of my to-do list. But for about 48 hours on a weekend, not too long ago, everything on my to-do list was done. So, on that particular Saturday morning, after I walked the dogs, I pulled out a watercolor painting kit I bought for the kids 20 years ago, put some music on, and spent the next two days surrounded by music and color. And dogs.

It’s not a great painting of a watermelon. But it is an excellent reminder of how rejuvenating it feels to spend the entire day surrounded by things that feed my soul (for me, that’s always been music) and level-set my inner peace. And apparently, now I have a new hobby.

If reading is one of your hobbies and you’d like to be added to the Kirkwood City Lifestyle mailing list, email your name and address to  renee.moore@ citylifestyle.com , and we’ll happily add you. Make sure to follow us on social media @KirkwoodCityLifestyle

Thank you to all the women who partner, champion, and support Kirkwood City Lifestyle magazine. Our community is brighter because of you; there is no question about it.

RENEE MOORE, PUBLISHER @KIRKWOODCITYLIFESTYLE

CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/KIRKWOOD

May 2024

PUBLISHER

Renee Moore | renee.moore@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Maria Eilers

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Kathryn Jamboretz, Kimberly Gooch, Abby Lapids, Erin Burkis, Lorilee Cummings, Neil Westfall

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Carey Campbell

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall

LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.

Departments

Relax. Restore. Revive.

Luxury self-care has a new address as Dr. Treasa Turnbeaugh elevates the spa experience.

Enterprising Women

Five women share their stories of inspiration.

Motivation, Mindfulness, Mom-talk

Offering A Fresh Perspective

WHY CHOOSE WOOD

Wood is Healthier

Because wood flooring requires fewer chemicals to make and install, it helps promote healthier living and work environments.

The EPA found that hardwood floors improve air quality because they are less likely to harbor dangerous microorganisms, pesticides, and allergens, such as dust, mold, or pet dander.

Wood is Durable

Vinyl flooring will last only a decade or two, while quality wood flooring can last more than 100 years.

Wood floors will stand up to foot traffic and will maintain their color finish with proper maintenance. Vinyl flooring, however, will last only a decade or two and fade dramatically over time when exposed to sunlight.

Wood floors are easy to maintain and can be repaired with relative ease. But vinyl typically needs to be replaced completely if it’s damaged.

Wood is Sustainable

Wood is a zero waste product. For example, old wood from flooring can be turned into other products or simply bio-degrade.

Other flooring types, such as vinyl, are made from plastics or synthetic fibers that take multiple decades to break down and decompose. Recycling companies typically reject old vinyl flooring because it’s not profitable for them. And, the alternative form of disposal - burning - releases harmful phthalate chemicals into the air.

Wood Makes Sense Economically

Many homeowners love the look of hardwood flooring and other features in their home. But they are also concerned about the initial expense of installing wood.

Putting wood floors into your home is truly a good investment. Real hardwood floors add to the resale value of your home. The average return on investment is 70 to 80%!

RELAX.RESTORE.REVIVE.

Luxury self-care has a new address as Dr. Treasa Turnbeaugh elevates the spa experience.

ARTICLE BY KATHRYN JAMBORETZ

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

After a long career in the corporate world, this former CEO didn't feel like sitting on the sidelines. Her idea of fun wasn't finding a new hobby but discovering her "next act" opportunity. Dr. Treasa Turnbeaugh discusses what inspired her to launch Woodhouse Spa in St. Louis.

“We'll raise the community's expectations of mood and body care by providing an elevated experience that exudes pampering and luxury.”

"I attempted a low-key retirement for a time but quickly decided that wasn't for me," said Treasa. "I began to think of my next business venture and all that I had to offer professionally and personally to a great organization. I knew I wanted to own my own business again. I kept thinking about the revitalization and respite a spa experience can bring to one's life."

Treasa recalled how her past career involved opportunities to experience luxury spas worldwide, setting the bar for her next entrepreneurial opportunity. "Health and wellness, both physically and spiritually, has been a common thread through my career and my life. I kept thinking about the spa I visited in Carmel, Indiana, which stood out above all the rest in my experience. This was Woodhouse Spa. I left that spa experience feeling like royalty. When I discovered it was a franchise, I was committed to bringing that world-class luxury experience to the St. Louis area. Suddenly, my next act was born."

The Woodhouse Spa brand has spent over twenty years caring for guests' minds, bodies, and moods. Now, it's St. Louis' turn to experience the personal touch of luxury surrounded by a mid-century modern decor within a Scandinavian aura backdrop.

"My motivation is to be a disruptor in the spa space in the St. Louis area," said Treasa. "I want to raise the community's expectations of mood and body care by providing an elevated experience for the guest that exudes pampering and luxury."

Treasa's team is dedicated to creating an immersive self-care experience for clients.

"I hold a PhD in health services research with a minor in epidemiology and three master's degrees in health, wellness, and business. I encourage lifelong learning for myself and others." Quoting Socrates, Treasa says, "Education is the kindling of a flame, not the filling of a vessel…and that kindling of a flame ignites the fire of passion." She added, "I have

a passion for business and a passion for self-care. Woodhouse Spa Ellisville is the culmination of a lifetime of learning at the crossroads of my pension for luxury with a personal touch."

"I want our guests to come in and exhale in a sanctuary where they can have a time and place to focus just on themselves," said Treasa. "Here, you will find a full suite of luxury spa services. The experience before, during, and after sets us apart. I have been blessed with many unique experiences in my life, including attending a Royal tea party at Buckingham Palace, festivities at the House of Lords, jeep surfing the Arabian desert, attending meetings at the Pentagon and the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, speaking with governmental delegates in China, India, and Dubai. My experiences at Woodhouse Spas have been just as impressionable. I believe I am bringing something very special to St. Louis."

Behind the giant rough-hewn doors, you'll find a spa with special touches around every corner. As you sink into a fluffy robe and slippers, you can sip a glass of champagne or a soothing beverage next to the fire in the guest relaxation room or VIP room.

"We have a large variety of rejuvenating massages, body treatments, soaks, and facials - including hydra facial treatments, salt therapy, infrared sauna, redlight bed therapy, waxing, and luxury mani-pedis with seasonal highlight offerings," said Treasa. "We offer a quiet relaxation area and VIP relaxation room for solitude and meditation before and after your treatments. We also offer a party relaxation room for groups who prefer socializing. This is not a med spa, but a luxurious day spa experience."

Tony Turnbeaugh, son and business partner, oversees technology and staff development. Tony is dedicated to ensuring that each team member is an ambassador of wellness. The staff has its own relaxation room—with a luxury massage chair—just for them.

Treasa Turnbeaugh

“As you sink into a fluffy robe and slippers, you can sip a glass of champagne or a soothing beverage next to the fire in the guest relaxation room or VIP room.”

Tony says he has seen firsthand how Treasa brings out the finest in those around her. "Her life is about lifting people up and bringing out the best in them. She invests in her team and mentors people to live their best lives, which translates into great customer service."

If becoming the best version of yourself sounds right, your fluffy robe and pampering tranquility are waiting. Treasa and her team at the Ellisville location invite you to put your well-being in their hands and let them show you the transformational effect of a luxury spa experience.

Woodhouse Spa is located at Manchester and Clarkson Road in Ellisville.

Ready For Your Next Move?

Whether you are looking for a new home in Kirkwood, Webster, Des Peres, or anywhere in the St. Louis area, you deserve a professional to help you navigate through today’s real estate market!

Being both a buying and selling agent, I work hard to make the process smooth and get my clients to the closing table!

As a local Glendale resident, I’d love to be your trusted partner on the sale or purchase of your home. Whether you are ready now or in the future, let’s come up with the best plan for you and your family!

ARTICLE BY KIMBERLY GOOCH PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

ENTERPRISING WOMEN

DID YOU KNOW ST. LOUIS HAS ONE OF THE HIGHEST PROPORTIONS OF FEMALE BUSINESS OWNERS, WITH NEARLY 24.8% OF REGISTERED COMPANIES OWNED BY WOMEN?

The Women's Foundation of Greater St. Louis honored Enterprise Bank for advancing women in the workplace based on leadership, compensation, flexible work policies, recruitment, and retention. Kirkwood Branch Manager Livia Vrapi is a shining example. Livia started her career at Enterprise Bank as a teller and today leads a team dedicated to helping individuals and businesses meet their financial goals. Enterprise Bank SVP Dan Iadevito, Erin Joy, and Jane Maddox, CPA tax partner at Anders, celebrate women in leadership.

Casie Eller, Livia Vrapi, Jenny Marra

Jane Maddox, Anders, Erin Joy, Dan Iadevito, Enterprise Bank & Trust

“We must remember we are human beings, not human doings. Take the time to pause and gather energy to get things done more effectively.”

ARIANA JAHJA

AS AN EXECUTIVE COACH, HOW DO YOU HELP PEOPLE?

This sounds cliché, but the answers we seek are already within us. My old coach used Michelangelo's carving of the Statue of David as an analogy for growth and development: the sculpture was already there, but it took time to fine-tune the masterpiece through attention and focus. With enough curiosity, self-exploration, willingness to take responsibility, and support from a coach or mentor, we can recognize and tune into our blind spots and uncover the greatness already within us.

WHY ARE COMPASSION AND GRACE IMPORTANT PILLARS OF INDIVIDUAL SUCCESS?

Having compassion and grace for ourselves opens us up to learning from our behavior, leading to self-mastery, self-awareness, and lifelong learning. This also allows for compassion for others, especially others who aren't like us.

WHAT IS "SELF-TALK?"

Our inner self-talk, a mix of our conscious and unconscious thoughts, becomes our outer reality. Pay attention to your positive-to-negative self-talk ratio. Notice your tone you take with yourself. The positive should outweigh the negative. Humans are wired for negative self-talk due to a psychological concept called negativity bias. Because our selftalk is so habitual, it can feel like the truth until we realize we have the power to notice and change it.

Ariana Jahja - Executive Coach at Glowe Connective

MELISSA BETZ

WHAT IS IT LIKE TO PLAY “A ROUND” AT WORK?

As a teaching professional, I love helping women become comfortable on playing on the course, in company tournaments, and helping young girls make their high school golf team. Watching new golfers' faces light up when the ball is airborne for the first time is so much fun! I also love working side-by-side with my husband to build a business we are enthusiastic about.

NAME YOUR DREAM FOURSOME.

Annika Sorenstam, Condoleezza Rice & Caitlin Clark. Annika was considered the greatest female player of all time and invited to play in a PGA Tour Event, leading the way for other women to follow. It’s groundbreaking to watch women compete with men (especially since I was always trying to compete against my older brother). Condoleezza Rice caught the golf bug later in life and became one of the first two female members admitted to Augusta National Golf Club. To this day, she is a huge inspiration for girls and women in sports, inspiring them to gain confidence and strength and become strong leaders. Caitlin Clark is breaking records on the court and drawing record-breaking crowds and viewers to women's basketball.

HOW DID YOU GET INTO GOLF?

My dad has always been an avid and excellent golfer. We grew up going to the driving range as a family. I loved spending time with my dad on the range and at the course. To this day, whether we compete against each other or play on the same team, we always have a great time. It’s never too early or too late to learn to play.

Melissa Betz, Director of Marketing/Teaching Professional/Assistant Golf Professional Family Golf and Learning Center

“G.R.I.T. is an inclusive community of dynamic women who share their personal experiences as a roadmap to empower others.”

JENNIFER BARDOT

DESCRIBE G.R.I.T. AND THE POWER OF OWNING IT.

G.R.I.T. stands for Growth, Resilience, Intention, and Tenacity. The power of owning your G.R.I.T. allows you to embrace your passion and elevate your goals to new heights. When I started owning my power, I put myself in positions to intentionally stretch myself. When you own who you are, you surround yourself with people with similar values and aspirations. You become comfortable with your choices and recognize and appreciate your individuality.

YOU HAVE A NEW LINE OF JEWELRY. HOW DOES THIS BUSINESS VENTURE ALIGN WITH YOUR G.R.I.T.?

As a publisher and author of stories profiling women with G.R.I.T., I see the gems in the experiences they share and the lessons they have learned. My jewelry line is a way to showcase the strength and beauty of women. It highlights the individual pearls of wisdom in each of our stories; like little pieces of charcoal that handle stress exceptionally well.

YOU'VE INSPIRED SO MANY WOMEN AROUND THE WORLD. WHO INSPIRES YOU?

I am inspired by women who see their strength and authentically share their stories. I am inspired by changemakers and rebels who dare to speak up. I am inspired by my children and the women that I serve.

Jennifer Bardot with GRIT authors Arinola Solanke and Cindy Mebruer

“No parenting book prepares you for any of it. We've worked really hard to raise six children who love and grow with each other everyday.”

TRISHA MCCONKEY

DESCRIBE THE IDEA BEHIND "HOMEWORK WITH TRISHA."

I work as a construction loan specialist in the home construction and renovation industry. My husband and I have spent the last year working on our historic home renovation in Kirkwood. And we’ve worked really hard to raise six kids. My insights about all of that can be found on social media @HomeWorkWithTricia

HOW WOULD YOUR SIX KIDS DESCRIBE YOU?

These are the exact words from all six kids. “She has taught us what it’s like to grow up in a loving home full of encouragement and to be our best selves. She is such a hardworking woman who has made a great name for herself. She has shown us what it’s like to not give up and keep pushing toward our goals. Our mom is our best friend and role model all in one. She is the one person we have always aspired to be, and we hope one day to be like her, to have people describe us the same way we have described her.”

WHAT IS SOMETHING THAT PEOPLE WOULD BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?

I didn’t graduate from college. While I value higher education, too much emphasis is placed on getting a degree. I educate high school students about all career opportunities.

Trisha McConkey - Construction Loan Specialist

“Girl Scouts, get your Gold Award. It's hard but you learn a lot about project management and it's rewarding to help the the environment.”

JASMINE GURA

WHAT IS THE GIRL SCOUT GOLD AWARD?

The Gold Award is the equivalent of the Boy Scout’s Eagle Scout Award. The project must last at least eighty hours, be sustainable, and have a local and global impact.

WHAT WAS YOUR PROJECT?

I made twelve pollinator houses. My inspiration came from trying to grow pumpkins in our backyard. We noticed that the flowers weren’t being pollinated by bees, so we pollinated the flowers by hand. Solitary bees are native pollinators in Missouri, but their nesting habitats are endangered due to pesticides and urban development.

WHAT IS A SOLITARY BEE?

Solitary bees are non-aggressive. Their only job is to pollinate. They do not produce honey, do not have a queen, and do not live in hives. They look for natural holes in trees to create nesting cavities. I made the pollinator houses out of wood with holes drilled deep enough to nest and a roof to keep the water off.

WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF THIS PROJECT?

Build day was the most fun. My dad and I drove to my grandpa’s house in Chicago because he has all the tools. It was tough work, but I learned how to use all of the tools. I’m excited to see the bees begin to build their nests.

Jasmine Gura - Kirkwood High School Senior and Girl Scout

A Banking Partnership That Empowers You and Your Business

An Interview with Jenny Merlo, Vice President and Business Banking Lending Team Lead

Enterprise Bank & Trust stands as a testament to the strength of relationships and the successes they nurture. Highlighting our commitment, Jenny Merlo, Vice President and Business Banking Lending Team Lead in St. Louis, embodies the leadership and dedication that propel us. Read on for a Kirkwood City Lifestyle exclusive interview with Jenny:

What is your professional background?

I have worked in commercial lending and business banking for the entirety of my career. I worked for regional and national banks from 1993-2000 and then retired to raise my family. I rejoined the workforce in 2014 to become a portfolio manager for Enterprise. I started part time and worked my way up to full time during COVID-19 when our team was responsible for processing Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans. I am now a Vice President and love managing my portfolio of clients and leading a team of four talented portfolio managers.

Why were you drawn to Enterprise Bank & Trust?

This is easy — it was the culture. I was offered a position that suited my professional aspirations while balancing the needs of my family. The support and guidance provided to me by my direct managers, as well as executive management, is something I had not experienced in previous roles with other banks.

Describe your current position.

I currently manage a portfolio of approximately 100 clients with borrowing needs up to $1.5MM. The majority of my day-to-day responsibilities include loan structuring and pricing, meeting with clients to discuss borrowing strategies and credit needs, loan approvals for the Business Banking team and helping my team reach their professional goals.

What has been your greatest accomplishment at Enterprise?

I pride myself on being successful at both work and home. If I had to pick one accomplishment, I think the assistance we provided our clients during and after the COVID-19 pandemic had the greatest impact on me as a relationship manager. Because of Enterprise’s exemplary participation in the PPP loan program, we were able to provide small businesses the capital they needed to ride out the storm. My whole team worked long hours to support

each other and our clients in a way that left me feeling rewarded. Knowing that we were able to make a difference is an experience that I will always carry with me.

What are the challenges facing the banking industry and how is Enterprise countering these challenges?

The competitive landscape is always a challenge in our industry. Enterprise Bank communicates changes proactively to our clients in all communities. The bank’s community involvement and presence in all of our markets ensures stability and consistency and our clients are appreciative of the support. Enterprise also offers a team approach to relationship management and provides unique services, such as Enterprise University, which is unrivaled in the banking industry.

In today’s business landscape, how can a strong relationship with your bank be a game-changer for St. Louis’ small and midsize businesses?

I always advise my clients to surround themselves with a strong advisory team. A strong relationship with your CPA, lawyer and banker can provide you with the resources to assist you with your growth goals. By talking with your banker on a regular basis — through good times and bad — you can develop an understanding and trust that will assist when the next need arises. We want to be the first person called on your best day, but also the first person called on your worst day. When the relationship is solid, we can work much easier through the tough times. I love getting to know my clients and the industries they represent.

What would you say to a business owner unsure if they should reach out to learn more about Enterprise?

Call us! Go into any one of our locations and ask to be introduced to a branch manager, a business banker, a private banker — everyone is eager to share their knowledge and excitement! Talk to your industry peers, your friends and your neighbors. It is likely that someone you know has had an outstanding experience with Enterprise!

Ready to experience a banking relationship where your success is the priority? Let Jenny Merlo and Enterprise guide you to a lifetime of financial success.

1056 N Ballas Rd, Des Peres 63131 314-909-4769

stl@barre3.com • @barre3stl

of Saint Loius

Macarons, Tarts & Cakes, Éclairs, Napoleon, Croissants, Lavazza Euro Coffees, Organic French Wine, Iced Drinks, Gelato, Fine Chocolates, & More

Reserve our Event Room!! Seating up to 36! “Best Coffee in St Louis!”Our Customers

Old Webster Groves 111 W Lockwood Ave 314-395-6094

LeMacaron1StLouis@gmail.com

M-Sat 9am-10pm Sun 9am-9pm lemacaronstlouis

Motivation, Mindfulness & Mom-talk at the barre.

MEET MELISSA STOLZE, OWNER OF BARRE3 IN DES PERES.

ARTICLE BY KIMBERLY GOOCH | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Melissa Stolze

WHAT INSTANTLY BRIGHTENS YOUR DAY?

Besides coffee, my family (including my 3 dogs) instantly brightens my day. Setting them up for their day and heading to the studio to greet my clients makes my heart happy. The exhaustion at the end of the day is rewarding, knowing that I am empowering women and realizing that life isn't about existing; it's about thriving and finding purpose.

WHAT IS SOMETHING PEOPLE WOULD BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?

I have my master's degree. Before barre3, I was a part of the finance team at The Boeing Company's JDAM and Brimstone Missiles Division. The knowledge I gained on that journey helped me become a successful small business owner.

WHAT ACHIEVEMENT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF?

I took a leap of faith 12 years ago by opening the first barre3 studio in the Midwest. The impact of COVID forced 30% of boutique fitness studios to close. It was devastating. We survived despite the odds. I continue to focus on creating an empowering environment for our clients. They crave not only the workout but the inclusive community that we provide. Our clients are given permission to reach outside their comfort zone, learn, adapt, and lead from within.

Melissa Stolze (r) and her daughter

WHAT IS SOMETHING FROM YOUR CHILDHOOD THAT YOU STILL HAVE?

My brother's denim jacket. We lost my brother in a tragic accident 35 years ago on Christmas Eve. He will always remain in our hearts. The jacket hangs in my closet so I can see it every day. Ironically, my due date for both of my children was Christmas Eve. I take that as a sign that my brother is looking over me.

WHAT WORDS OF WISDOM WOULD YOU OFFER TO MIDDLE-SCHOOL GIRLS?

Growing up can be challenging. Be determined and strive to persevere. Know that there is no such thing as perfection. Don't let setbacks define you; learn from them and grow. Treat others as you would like to be treated. Kindness will be remembered forever. You can accomplish anything. Commit and go for it!

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE QUALITIES OF YOUR BEST FRIEND?

She feels my emotions alongside me. She's more of a sister than friend. She listens to my hopes, fears, dreams, foolishness, and more, not out of obligation but because she genuinely cares without judgment. She's kind, honest, adventurous, and likes to have fun. Whether having a cocktail by the pool or standing by me as I lead our annual Kirkwood Station class, she makes me laugh at the most inopportune moments.

SHARE YOUR FAVORITE "MOM MOMENTS."

I have many favorite "Mom Moments," from the sweet memories of bedtime cuddles to their unique and novel personalities. Some of our best conversations are while driving in the car. Something about being side by side in the car makes our conversations less intense and more comfortable. Long road trips with my son, Tyler, lead to laughter and talk of his interests. Singing to our girl Taylor Swift in the car with my daughter Brooklyn is magical! No distractions. The rest of the world fades away. It's just us.

“Be determined. Strive to persevere. There's no such thing as perfection. Don't let setbacks define you. Treat others as you would like to be treated. Kindness will be remembered forever.”

Melissa Stolze - owner of barre3

blooms ABOUND

EXPERT ADVICE ON DECORATING YOUR HOME AND GARDEN WITH FRESH CUT FLOWERS ALL YEAR LONG.

ARTICLE BY ABBY LAPIDS, SUGAR CREEK GARDENS

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Complement the color pallet of your home with fresh cut flowers from your garden. Harvesting fresh flowers from the garden is one of the greatest joys of home gardening. With a little planning, enjoying fresh-cut flowers from early spring until a hard frost can be easy.

SPRING

Peonies are the queens of cut flowers. Their large flowers and long stems create fabulous bouquets. German Irises are a bouquet standard and a must for the cut flower garden. Other spring flowers - Columbine, Bleeding Hearts, Lilacs, Lily-of-the-Valley, Dianthus (Pinks), and Wild Sweet William.

SUMMER

Lavender is beautiful in the garden, in a vase, or dried. Provencal France lavender is popular, but many varieties thrive in St. Louis. Hydrangeas create fabulous bouquets that are long-lasting, but Panicle hydrangeas are the cream of the crop. With huge white flowers that slowly fade to shades of pink and chartreuse, they stun in the garden. Other summer flowers: Garden Phlox, Daisies, Perennial Sunflower, Roses, Clematis, BlackEyed Susans, Lilies, Blazing Star, Zinnias, Rattlesnake Master, and Cosmos.

FALL

Anemones create stunning fall displays. Once cut, blossoms can last almost two weeks in the vase. Other fall bloomers include chrysanthemums, Sedums, Asters, and Toad Lilies.

LATE WINTER TO EARLY SPRING

Forsythia, the harbinger of spring, delights with large stems of sunshine-yellow flowers. When cutting stems, cut forsythia right when they bloom to enjoy the flowers opening in the vase. Other early spring flowers include daffodils, Lenten Roses, and Witch Hazel.

Pick fragrant flowers in the early morning or late afternoon—the volatile oils that carry the scent evaporate in the sun. Place fresh-cut stems into water immediately. Set flower arrangements away from direct sunlight and refresh water often.

Sugar Creek Garden offers free 45-minute design consultations to help transform your home exterior and interior from average to amazing.

WHAT BRINGS YOU JOY?

There is so much joy in helping people move into their next chapter of life. Whether someone is buying a small bungalow or a multi-million-dollar home, I am honored every time someone chooses me as their real estate professional. I work hard to make the process smooth and fun.

Of course, there can be stressful moments with so many moving parts in the real estate process. My clients appreciate my calm approach to navigating their buying and/or selling journey. Real estate is about celebrating our successes, building relationships, and making new friends.

WHAT IS SOMETHING THAT PEOPLE WOULD BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?

Even though I have a design background and know how to make a home look perfect, my home is definitely NOT show-ready. My floors have paw prints from our dog. There's a stack of volleyballs in the corner of our dining room. And my kitchen still needs to be updated (even with a husband in

Realtor Andrea Maddock's fresh perspective on what matters most.

ARTICLE BY KIMBERLY GOOCH | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CAREY CAMPBELL

EOFFERINGA FRE SH PERSPECTIV

Andrea Maddock on location at Sugar Creek Gardens.

construction.) When I visit someone's home for the first time, I explain how we "live" in our homes differs from how we "show" our homes. I don't know many people who could take real estate photos at a moment's notice, me included!

WHAT DO YOU CHERISH?

Like many Kirkwood area families, we are busy. Whenever I get a simple one-onone moment with any of my three teenage daughters or husband, that is great. My oldest daughter is in college, so the rarity of having us all sit at a table together for a meal is a really amazing time that I cherish. I want my daughters to be confident, independent, and successful women, but more than that, I want them to be compassionate to others. I cherish stories of their kindness.

WHAT ACHIEVEMENT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF IN YOUR REAL ESTATE CAREER?

I am honored that my clients trust me. I had the honor of working with the family of the highest-listed home in Glendale last year. I have also been recognized as a Janet McAfee top agent every year I've been in the business, and I have no plans of slowing down.

REALTORS NEVER HAVE A DAY OFF, BUT WHAT WOULD YOU DO IF YOU HAD ONE DAY TO YOURSELF?

I would run the Forest Park loop with my running group and go to brunch with my family, followed by a City soccer game or another fun St. Louis activity and Ted Drew's for dessert.

FAVORITE TIP FOR STAGING A HOME?

Lots of fresh flowers!

• Window

• Gutter

• Power

• Roof

•

ARTICLE BY ERIN BURKIS, ROESER HOME REMODELING

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Cover Your World

“Textured wallpaper is my favorite because it is natural and creates a classic style.”

I love designing spaces with wallpaper. It’s a great way to add interest to an entire room or an accent wall.

Wallpaper has several applications, such as an accent wall in a bedroom or nursery, or elevating a living room, powder room, dining room, laundry room, on coffered ceilings, or in frames hung on walls.

Textured cork and grass cloth are two of my favorites because they are natural and create a classic style. Keep in mind, not all textured wallpaper is natural. Natural coverings are beautiful, but are more fragile and delicate and should not be used in certain applications.

Get creative, go bold, experiment with colors, patterns and styles that amplify your personality. Covering your walls can make a world of difference. roeserconstruction.com

Kirkwood's newest vertical neighborhood

As a Realtor, I'm excited about the luxury living opportunities at The James in downtown Kirkwood.

The James, Kirkwood’s first new luxury multifamily development in more than two decades, welcomed its first residents on February 1st, 2024. Located at 416 N. Kirkwood Road, The James is a five-story multifamily community that boasts a variety of floorplans, including studios, alcoves, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, in addition to several floorplans with added dens. The project was developed by High Street Residential and the developer’s project partners included Greystar Management, ESG Architecture & Design and Brinkman Construction.

“We are excited to welcome our new residents to The James and provide an unmatched, high-end living experience in Kirkwood’s historic downtown,” said Mary Boehmler of High Street Residential.

High Street Residential and its partners celebrated the grand opening of The James in March, welcoming partners, new and future residents, and community stakeholders to celebrate the project. Community Manager Jamie Guignon shared that “preleasing began in the Fall of 2023 and there was immediate interest and strong leasing momentum. The James is where historic charm meets modern details."

With 152 apartments, The James was designed to be a community where neighbors become friends. The management team regularly hosts events for residents, such as happy hours and brunches.

In addition to community activation, The James offers several amenities that make life more convenient for its residents. The community includes a two-level garage with 185 spaces, a secure & smart package room, a complimentary coffee bar, trash and recycle chutes on each floor, and an on-site dedicated guest suite available to overnight guests of residents. The James also offers several amenities that give residents space to enjoy themselves outside of their apartments. To get outside for some fresh air and sun, residents can enjoy a beautifully landscaped courtyard with an outdoor kitchen and gas grills, a fire pit, outdoor games, cabanas, and a heated resort-style pool. The James also has a modern fitness center complete with a fitness studio, private work lounges, a clubroom with games and TV, a private dining lounge, and a DIY bike repair and crafting shop. The James is pet friendly and offers a pet spa and dog run for your furry friends.

Named after James Kirkwood, a pioneer of the Missouri Pacific Railroad that runs through the town, the property has an intentional railroad motif. The booths and private offices in the work lounge are set up to look like train cars, and railroad photography artfully adorns the walls, in addition to a portrait of James Kirkwood himself that hangs in the private dining room, which has a speakeasy vibe with a hidden entrance behind a bookshelf,

reminiscent of the prohibition era, when trains were used for bootlegging.

Best of all is the property’s location. With a walk score of 86, The James is perfectly located close to all that there is to love about Kirkwood. From The Summit All Seasons Farmers’ Market and Historic Train Station, to more than 300 local businesses, Downtown Kirkwood offers entertainment, dining, and shopping.

Light-filled living spaces with modern textures and finishes make The James a remarkable place to live. Every apartment home features quartz countertops with tile backsplash, custom cabinets with under cabinet lighting and soft-close cabinets and drawers, a full-size washer and dryer, GE stainless steel appliances, 9’ ceilings, floor to ceiling windows showcasing a variety of views, and beautiful wood-look vinyl flooring. High Street Residential and Greystar Property Management warmly invite you to stop in, take a tour, and meet the new neighbors.

To arrange a tour or learn about the current leasing specials, visit the website www.thejameskirkwood.com or call 314.775.2000

Lorilee Realty has over 27 years of real estate experience and is powered by Keller Williams Realty. As the founder of the Kirkwood - Des Peres Area Chamber of Commerce Women's Entrepreneurial Group, I invite you to join us at our monthly luncheon. Email me at  lorilee@kw.com or visit llhomes.kw.com

Lorilee Cummings

The Work Lounge

The Speakeasy

I’ll drive Carpool

ARTICLE BY NEIL WESTFALL, AUDI EXCHANGE KIRKWOOD | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

The St. Louis European Auto Show roars into town for its 36th anniversary of celebrating beautiful machines and raising funds for St. Louis nonprofits.

St. Louis Arc continues as the charitable partner for this year’s event, which takes place on Sunday, June 9th, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at MINI of St. Louis.

Vehicles on display include Ferrari, Audi, Lotus, BMW, Mercedes, MG, Bugatti, Porsche, Lamborghini, Ducati, and many more. This free event has been a St. Louis tradition since 1987 and occurs rain or shine. For more information visit facebook.com/StLouisEuropeanAutoShow