STYLE + BEAUTY
SEASON STYLES THAT SIZZLE
BROWN OR BLUE— WHAT COLORS LOOK BEST ON YOU
SHOPPING PAINTED TREE TAKES ROOT IN LOVELAND
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I always enjoy scouting locations for our annual fashion shoot—and this year we found a gem! My Social Media Coordinator, Courtney, sent me info about a place in Loveland called Indie Hollow. One look at the website and I was sold. It was beautiful, picturesque … but for the life of me I couldn’t figure out where it was. I googled the address and zoomed in on Google Earth but was still baffled. It was only when I drove along Cones Rd., which runs parallel to the bike trail, that I got my bearings.
I arrived at a white building (one that I remember biking past as a child) with my curiosity piqued—who worked there and what did they do? Now I had a different question—where was this turquoise lake (it’s actually a quarry) that I fawned over on the Indie Hollow website? I drove right up to the building, and there, hidden behind it down the hill, was the lake accompanied by a grand white tent and a few additional buildings. All these years it had been there, but I had no idea.
The day of the shoot, the models battled the heat as always (sweaters and July don’t mix) but every once in a while, we got a gentle breeze and there was plenty of shade from the large trees—the sight of the jewel-colored water helped a little, too. It truly was a magical place for a shoot.
So next time you’re on the trail, when you come to an intersection right after downtown Loveland and you see a white building standing all alone ... just remember there’s quite the surprise behind it.
September 2023
PUBLISHER
Emily Barlow | emily.barlow@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Stephanie Meinberg stephanie.meinberg@citylifestyle.com
SALES SUPPORT DIRECTOR
Courtney Kraemer | courtney.kraemer@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Courtney Kraemer
INTERN
Maria Monfreda
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Bill Furbee, Elizabeth A. Lowry, J.M. Green, Nicole Browning, Nan Paraskevopoulos, Stephanie Meinberg, Angela Broockerd
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Matthew J Capps, Leann with Crows Nest Photography, Stephanie Meinberg, Janie Jones
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 Collins
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
That’s what we bring to the table—a team of craftsmen so skilled, you’d swear this deck and addition were always part of the home. Whatever their style, we can build to suit our clients’ homes and their lifestyles. For example, adding a screened-in porch for fall foliage viewing—minus the bugs. Yeah, we’ve got you covered…literally!
Business as usual? Not likely. Casual couture or fashionable flair, work/play attire is turning an anything-but-boring corner. Sophisticated silks. Chic blazers. Trousers, leather leggings, both. Femme fatale meets classic prep. Ready to shop? We are.
neighbors can see and be seen.
1: Parading down the packed streets of Loveland on the 4th of July celebration with @CityofLovelandOH. 2: Loveland Little League 13U All Stars discussed being Little League State Champions @MagnoliaSpringsSeniorLiving. 3: @GardenCityChiro’s booth at the @LMRChamberAlliance’s Third Thursday concert. 4: M Town Tour stopped @TheBMWStoreCincinnati on July 6th, enticing 150+ people throughout the day. 5: Treats and smiles during story time @LovelandFarmersMarket with @LovelandBranchLibrary. 6: It was a perfect summer day for the annual Road to Health Wellness Expo @LMRChamberAlliance. 7: Who wants a funnel cake? SMOY Fest was a huge success @SmoyParish.
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The Studio is home to over 5,000 bolts of fabric. We strive to provide a selection of current fabrics, threads, patterns, books, notions and supplies for quilters in the Tri-State area. Hire us to professionally quilt, or train on our machines and quilt it yourself! We hope to become your go-to shop for all your quilting needs!
round-up of
news from local businesses.
New Life Furniture Bank has recently expanded thanks to the generous support of the Carol Ann and Ralph V. Haile Jr. Foundation, Ohio EPA, and private donors! Our local Furniture Bank is the only nonprofit in the region focused on fully furnishing homes for individuals and families overcoming homelessness and devastating circumstances. With this 10,000-square-foot expansion at their Blue Ash facility, NLFB can now reach their goal of furnishing at least 2,400 homes this year.
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Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Loveland
Whether you’re in need of custom cakes or an out-of-this-world shake, check out AMAEZING Sweet Shoppe for all your sugar-high needs. Located on Montgomery Rd south of Columbia Rd, this delicious bakery and creamery is not to be missed. “When a family stops in, it feels like they are walking into our home to share an AMAEZING sweet treat,” promises owner Ashley. As a Loveland family, it’s important to Ashley to keep their shop local.
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Mark your calendars—September 9th is the Loveland Legacy Foundation’s Dinner En Rouge. All proceeds from the event go to the Foundation to support Loveland and area communities, and the event includes indoor and outdoor open bars and a “Taste of Loveland” station-style dinner and dessert. Check out the mystery wine pull and “Red Hot” Raffle for some awesome prizes. Be sure to wear your best Loveland red couture to dance the night away!
LovelandLegacyFoundation.org
The best places and things to do in our area.
European-inspired cafés and speakeasy-style lounges. Latin cuisine, French fare, Italian influence... nothing’s more on-trend than elevated food and quirky, crave-worthy, crushable cocktails. Some of these hidden gems are just that—hidden (but we’re willing to share their secrets). Others are new to our city’s eclectic food-and-dining scene; still others are classics you’re long overdue to revisit. No matter the spot, each boasts its own sophisticated style and flavor... why not try them all?
LIVERY MONTGOMERY: Fan of all things agave? Then this spot is for you— with its Latin influence, this tequila bar is bound to have a cocktail you’ll love. 9320 Montgomery Rd, Montgomery, OH
GHOST BABY: “Rattle the ordinary” and step into this clubby underground hideaway brimming with swank, swag and style. Live music, unique cocktails, and a guaranteed good time! 1314 Republic St, Cincinnati, OH
QUARTER BISTRO: Looking for a new date night destination? Grab your boo and snag a spot under the twinkling lights to enjoy amazing Latin and French-inspired cuisine. 6904 Wooster Pike, Cincinnati, OH
PRIMAVISTA: Dinner and a view—experience some of the city’s best Italian food and wine, while enjoying a perfect panorama of this beautiful place we call home. 810 Matson Pl, Cincinnati, OH
SOMERSET BAR: Adventure, tranquility, magic—Somerset is a place where these all come to life. Enjoy tasty craft cocktails in a beautiful garden-themed indoor/outdoor bar. 139 E. McMicken Ave, Cincinnati, OH
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A faith-based organization is making waves in the world of style and fashion, but with a purpose that goes far beyond aesthetics.
Mission Lazarus is an organization dedicated to individual, family community, and economic development in Honduras and Haiti. While they have a strong presence in the heart of Nashville, the true magic of Lazarus lies in the hands of the artisans from the countries they serve.
Mission Lazarus has several programs dedicated to educating and economically uplifting individuals in Haiti and Honduras— including in schools, health care centers, ranches and even a coffee farm. One of their programs, Lazarus Artisan Goods, is the epitome of the organization's mission to empower individuals through education and vocational training. With a focus on producing high-quality leather goods, this social enterprise has not only transformed the lives of its artisans, but has also impacted the communities they come from.
According to Francesc Pedró, director of the UNESCO Institute of Higher Education for Latin America and the Caribbean, only about 19% of people in Honduras have a college education. Even having a college degree is no guarantee of a high-paying job.
In Honduras, women are unlikely to finish high school. Those who do complete secondary education often don’t find jobs that will allow them to support their families.
Mission Lazarus provides artisan training opportunities to women and men—offering their graduates not only a high school degree but also jobs that pay a better than fair wage, relative to the economy of Honduras.
At the core of Lazarus Artisan Goods are the artisans themselves. These skilled individuals, hailing from the local communities in Honduras, undergo rigorous training to craft exquisite leather products. Under the guidance of experienced mentors, they learn the art of leather crafting, from hand-stitching to intricate detailing—transforming raw materials into works of art.
When Mission Lazarus Founder and President Jarrod Brown met Juventina in Honduras, she was the only girl in her sixthgrade class who wasn’t pregnant or already a mother. Juventina was offered the opportunity to go through the vocational training program in the Lazarus Artisan Goods leather shop and became the first person in her family to graduate from high school. She now earns a premium wage and was able to build a small house.
ARTICLE BY NAN PARASKEVOPOULOS PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
“My life has been very different,” says Juventina, “because I have been able to learn this profession, which has been very useful for me and my family.”
Purchasing products from Lazarus Artisan Goods is more than just a style statement. It is an investment in the lives of these artisans and the communities they represent. By providing vocational training and sustainable employment opportunities, Mission Lazarus creates a positive ripple effect for families and local neighborhoods.“We have to ask ourselves if our programs are a sustainable investment,” says Jarrod. “We are investing in people so that they can transform their communities from the inside out, rather than continually trying to bring help in.”
Phil Smith, Mason local and COO of Mission Lazarus, started as a volunteer in Haiti. Phil witnessed the struggles faced by communities firsthand, and the challenges of nonprofit organizations. His experiences inspired him to join the board of Mission Lazarus and eventually assume the role of COO, following his retirement from a Fortune 50 company after 32 years. He emphasized their high standards of excellence, including those within their business practices, as his inspiration for joining the organization.
“I got to know Jarrod in Haiti. The practices he brought over from his work in Honduras on measurements, accountability and transparency rang true to me. Those were the same practices we used at the company where I had worked every day. Those are things Mission Lazarus did just as second nature,” explains Phil.
The success of Lazarus Artisan Goods goes beyond sales figures. Each purchase is a step toward empowering individuals, fostering economic development and promoting sustainable change. And of course, the products are great. Their bestseller is the Cecilia Tote. The large size and four internal pockets make this gorgeous bag perfect for holding your laptop, notebook and all other essential items. And because the quality of handcrafted leather is so fine, not only will this bag last for years, it gets better with age.“The leather goods that we have are phenomenal and the quality is impeccable,” says Phil. “When you know the story behind them, it is even more meaningful.”
Follow Mission Lazarus on the path to style with a purpose. They lead the way one beautifully crafted leather piece at a time. Lazarus Artisan Goods are available at boutiques across the United States, as well as directly from their online shop.
LazarusArtisanGoods.com
MissionLazarus.org
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“I’m more excited about this season than I’ve been for a lot of seasons.” Lori Avallone, owner of Mainstream Boutique, is flush with a fire for fall fashion. And for good reason—the trends have finally shifted. “Everything is just a little more sophisticated, and I love it. People are dressing !” Gone are the days of low-keyloungewear, giving way to a roaring, romantic mix of bright colors, silken fabrics and classic prep plaids (your hint to also dust off your ballet flats and loafers), whether back in-office or out on the town.
Clothing and accessories by Mainstream Boutique (MB) and Lemons & Limes Boutique (L&L), with additional pieces by Dale Robertson Jewelry (DRJ). Featuring models, Danielle and Karra, from Heyman Talent. Beauty by Exquisite Design Salon and Spa, makeup by Taylor Bishop, hair by Jeannie Marrs and Carrie Lyons. Shot on location at Indie Hollow—a unique, picturesque, nature-centric venue perfect for events and gatherings for 10 to 300.
Into the Wild L&L (left): Halter Neck Belted Jumpsuit with Back Keyhole in Camel, $78. Opal Seed Bead Hoop Earrings in Ivory, $32. (Cover: Mudpie Fedora with Leopard Band in Black, $44.)
DRJ: 10K Rosé Ring Charm Necklace with Round Diamonds, $379.
Wendy Knight owns Lemons & Limes Boutique—and she’s just as galvanized. “We’re excited to see preppy vibes back for the season.” Wendy calls it fashion-forward athleisure, a prevalence for dressing up with a more elevated, professional look that’s colored by both soft, earthy tones and the season's favorite hue: magenta. “It’s the color of the year,” Lori adds. “Along with pink, of course. It has so much momentum right now.” You can thank Barbiecore for that—our plastic-fantastic icon has become an influencer of the highest degree.
Dress for Success
L&L:
Tiger, Burning Bright MB (left): Satin Button-Down Shirt in Navy, $54. Satin Effect Wide-Leg Trouser in Rust, $56. Mac and Me Gucci-Inspired Dainty Gold Padlock Earrings, $24.
DRJ: 18K Stambolian Blue Chalcedony Diamond Ring, $4,950.
L&L (right): Mega Mike Tiger Sequin Sweater in White, $110. Kancan Mid-Rise Skinny Jeans in Dark Blue, $68. Bed Stu Soto Sandal in Black Lux, $135.
DRJ: 18K Dewi Sita Dot Design Ring with Pave Black Spinel, $159.05.
Both shop owners agree—“Blazers will rule the fall,” begins Wendy. Lori finishes, “Blazers are so hot, they’re going to be everywhere.” Along with trousers, refined waists, trench coats and cargos. There’s a tactile element as well—scrumptious silks, in slacks, shirts, skirts, more. Don’t forget your faux leather pants (a staple everyone should have in their closet according to Lori) and accessories to match. “Bigger, brighter jewelry is here and we love it!” says Wendy. The takeaway? It’s time to get dressed. Really dressed.
LemonsLimesBoutique.com
Facebook.com/MainstreamCincinnati DaleRobertsonJewelry.com
Pretty in Pink
L&L (left): Faux Fur Jacket in Lilac, $78. Elsie Adjustable Gathered Cami in White, $28. Kancan MidRise Skinny Jean in Dark Blue, $68. Kendra Scott Danielle Earrings, $80. DRJ: Blue Cubic Zirconia Ring with White Cubic Zirconias, $199.
Did you know peels can significantly improve signs of summer skin damage in addition to diminishing the appearance of wrinkles and improving the appearance of skin discoloration and pigmentation? So, what are you waiting for? Get ready to reveal your true, healthy, glowing skin.
“Art can reveal a bit of who you are,” says Veronique Hammons-Leemans, owner of Gallery Veronique. “It can also provide an atmosphere for relaxation or work. It can set the tone for your lifestyle.”
But many aren’t sure about what artwork is right for their home—that’s where Veronique comes in. “I tell customers to take the time to see a lot of art—it’s important to develop a sense of what touches their hearts,” she says. “Once you decide what touches you, it gets easier to be confident about buying a piece.”
Annual visits to the New York Art Expo and routine appearances at other exhibitions around the world enable Veronique to source the best, brightest, and most trendsetting artists today.
“My personal collection is made of surrealist prints from famous artists, most of them European,” she explains. “I also have African masks and contemporary works. I love warm colors, orange in particular.”
Of course, the right kind of art for each home can vary quite a bit. “I have clients who have mostly soft colors of light blues and gray to create a relaxing, peaceful environment. I also have clients who are passionate about being surrounded by memories, or events they relate to—particularly with sports fans, but it’s also true of families who cherish artwork that has been passed down from a previous generation.” And then there are the works that light up a room with bright, vibrant colors. “Those works contribute to a festive mood,” Veronique says, “for parties and pleasant gatherings.”
Veronique loves her job as an art consultant and collector—and it shows. “I see beautiful things all day,” she smiles. “How can this not be the best job in the world? I bring beauty, peace, and joy. What’s not to like?”
“Veronique has always been very patient when we’ve been uncertain about a piece,” Melody and Mike say. “She’s been able to help us choose pieces that not only complement the spaces in our home, but also reflect our tastes—and sometimes helps us to venture artistically where we may never have considered before!”
“This particular painting was displayed at HOMEARAMA, and we immediately knew it was perfect for our bar area. The whimsical, pop art painting was fun at first glance, had loads of nuances the longer you looked at it, and it’s been a big hit with friends and family at every gathering.”
“A while back, I was talking to Veronique about my passion for golf and being a member at professional golfer Jack Nicklaus’ premier club,” says Kevin. Veronique shared a portrait of Nicklaus with Kevin, but he needed time to consider. “It was so different, and I kept thinking how wonderful this unusual piece would be in my collection. Once we determined the size of the piece, the rest was easy.
“I’ve been working with Veronique for a while now, and I pretty much let her do her thing,” Kevin laughs. “I trusted her to advise me well, and related my taste to the artist working on the commission piece. It’s special to me—I was even able to have it signed by Jack.”
“Veronique paid attention to what we were drawn to,” says Lisa. “She gave straightforward guidance that helped us become confident we were making the right choices for our home.”
“Our primary guest bedroom has a tranquil vibe—we wanted a painting that would honor that yet add character to the room; the frame Veronique helped us choose makes sure the piece stands out yet ties it into the rest of the room. Conversely, in our main living area, we wanted a large, bold, colorful piece to add vibrancy. It’s now the room’s centerpiece.”
“Art is beauty,” Lisa adds. “Veronique has helped us bring more beauty into our home so we can enjoy it every day.”
TOP: Ursula Brenner, Abstract | BOTTOM: LunTse, Simplistic Garden
ARTIST: Craig Alan, Jack Nicklaus Populus GalleryVeronique.com 11364 Montgomery Rd, Cincinnati | 513.530.5379
Have you ever wondered why certain colors look amazing on everyone else, but terrible on you? Or why you’re drawn to certain hues no one else will even go near? Why is that?
Turns out, not every color (or trend) looks good on every person. There are a lot of nuances to style and color—and finding the match that works best for you isn't as easy as it sounds.
Enter House of Colour, a company whose mission is to “help clients build a lasting, easy-to-manage, sustainable wardrobe that not only looks great and provides confidence, but also represents each client’s authentic self.”
They do this via consultants who provide individualized, personal color and style analysis grounded in science, logic and objectivity.
Curious to learn more? Luckily, your very own House of Colour consultation is now within reach—via Loveland’s Molly Wagner.
In 2019, Molly found herself in a situation similar to that of many other mothers: juggling kids as a stay-at-home-parent, focusing on her children’s needs over her own. Then one day, a friend introduced her to House of Colour’s lively social media accounts. After following along for a couple years, she decided to take the plunge and find out what she was missing, undergoing her very own color analysis in 2022.
“The experience was nothing short of amazing! I discovered how certain hues perfectly complemented my features and enhanced my natural beauty,” Molly smiles. “I fell head over heels for the entire process, realizing the profound impact color can have on one’s appearance and self-confidence.”
Eager to take a deeper dive into her newfound passion, Molly underwent House of Colour training in November 2022, opening her own franchise two months later and marking the beginning of an exciting chapter in her life.
“As a House of Colour consultant, I have the opportunity to empower clients through the transformative power of color,” Molly says. “Witnessing their confidence blossom as they embrace their authentic selves fills me with immense joy. I’m fueled by the excitement of guiding others toward discovering their unique style and inner radiance.”
House of Colour starts with the belief that everyone has different colors that flatter them based on their skin undertones. They group the colors by season: autumn, winter, spring and summer. At your own consultation, you’ll learn your season and the colors that work best for you.
SAVES TIME AND MONEY. Say goodbye to impulse buys and wasted hours searching for shades that flatter you.
BOOSTS YOUR CONFIDENCE. When you wear the right hues, you feel like the best version of yourself.
“A consultation encompasses the creation of a timeless, effortlessly manageable and sustainable wardrobe that not only exudes beauty but also represents the authentic essence of each client,” Molly explains. “We believe that true confidence emerges when your outer appearance harmonizes seamlessly with your inner self.”
At her home studio, Molly prioritizes truly understanding your unique style, preferences and lifestyle. She’ll discuss your goals, explore your color preferences, and form a connection—this step lays the foundation for a highly personalized and transformative color analysis journey tailored specifically to you.
“We’ll uncover the shades that accentuate your natural beauty, make your eyes sparkle, give your complexion a radiant glow,” she says. “You’ll witness yourself in a whole new light as the colors reveal their astonishing potential.”
Once Molly reveals your personalized color palette, she’ll tell you how to incorporate these hues into your wardrobe. You’ll discover which colors to embrace, which to avoid, and how to effortlessly mix and match them—creating stylish and harmonious outfits that reflect your authentic self.
“The newfound confidence that radiates from within will leave you feeling inspired, empowered and ready to conquer the world!” Molly exclaims.
HouseOfColour.com/stylists/molly-wagner-loveland-ohio | 513.600.3052
A resident since the age of six, Molly chose to also keep her business in Loveland due to its small-town feel and amazing community.
MAKES A LASTING IMPRESSION. Effortlessly project good vibes by showcasing your unique style and personality.
ELEVATES YOUR STYLE. Wake up knowing you have a carefully curated color palette that brings out your best features.
“This is where my roots are,” Molly shares. “Having personally experienced the life-changing effects of getting my own colors done, I was inspired to bring this invaluable knowledge to my own community.”
“WE’LL UNCOVER THE SHADES THAT ACCENTUATE YOUR NATURAL BEAUTY, MAKE YOUR EYES SPARKLE, GIVE YOUR COMPLEXION A RADIANT GLOW.”
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For more information on how we can help you, please call and speak with one of our Physical Therapists today.
Jennifer Schwab lost her mother to cancer in May 2022—Cindy Couch was 69 years old. Yet her death offered another reminder to the Schwab family of life’s impermanence.
This Loveland family—Jennifer, Tom, their teenage daughter and son—knows better than to take their together-time for granted. High school extracurricular nights aside, they pride themselves on family dinners for four.
“I think we recognize that they’re not here forever,” Tom says. He seems to almost protest the empty nest, the quieter home.
“Family dinners are a lost art,” Adam Kidwell adds. Adam’s the project design manager for Perennial Professional Services. Perennial has designed and built kitchens, decks, bathrooms and basements across Loveland and Greater Cincinnati for more than 35 years.
The Perennial crew recently remodeled Jennifer and Tom’s basement—turning it from a cinderblock cellar to the Schwab family community club.
The renovation includes an incredibly large bar that incorporates structural features into the space, glassed wine closet, lounge area, bedroom, steam and shower room, home gym, and a recreation storage area near the sliding door that leads to their in-ground pool. And televisions.
“Our vision was if there were multiple games of the same sport going on at the same time, we could watch them all,” Jennifer smiles. “But it’s nice that we can turn on HGTV on at least one TV.”
Get to know the Schwabs and one realizes this space is much more than a flex on any new HGTV fad. It’s a haven for all those they host.
Transforming Storage Space into Family Sanctuary—
It’s What Perennial Does Best
“In hindsight, we wish we would have done this sooner,” Jennifer says. She’s referring to her teenagers who, for reasons that befuddle Jennifer, would rather hang with their friends. But almost immediately after the renovation, the kids and their crews planted their flags in the new Schwab sanctuary.
“It makes me feel good they want to be here,” Jennifer starts.
“So they can be kids,” Tom finishes. “We’ll host our son’s soccer team for their end-of-season get-together.” Should be lively, which makes Tom happy.
“It’s a safe place to hang.” That’s Adam again. Creating safe places to hang is just part of what he does best.
The Schwabs found Perennial through neighbor referrals.
“I’d say repeats and referrals from prior customers make up 80 to 85% of our business,” Adam says.
The Schwabs committed to Perennial because of their people.
“Half the battle was finding someone you think you can trust,” Jennifer says.
Trust includes knowing the family you’re designing and building for—and breathing life into a vision. Perennial achieves this responsibility, first, by not depending on subcontractors.
“It gives us control of the projects because we’re not dealing with five or six peoples’ different schedules,” Adam says.
Trust also depends on partnership, which Perennial fosters with its families throughout the process. Perennial prides itself on its 110 years of experience between Adam, owner Tim Gill and Scott the primary carpenter. Their combined master skills allow them to pivot and to please each family they meet.
“We work very hard to try and stay ahead of things,” Adam says. “But we still have the ability to make changes for a customer’s request and not hold up the project.”
When Jennifer and Tom had an idea for the bathroom, Adam—like a wizard with his wand—ensured their steam shower came to life. Jennifer had an idea to utilize the space under the staircase and, voilà, a glassed wine closet was born. A subtle nod to Cindy.
“She really liked her wine,” Jennifer laughs about her mother. “She would have been thrilled with it.”
Cindy never got to hang out in the Schwab’s new space, but her husband, Gary, does.
“He’s probably over here once a week,” Tom smiles. Tom does this—smiles—every time he speaks of family and friends. And the space they all hang out in now.
Shop Small, Support Local: Your One-Stop for High-end, Handcrafted Goods
Walking through the doors of Painted Tree Boutiques is like entering an Etsy marketplace come to life—there’s not a lot you won’t find here. It’s easy to get lost browsing for hours; every corner turned holds a new shop with wares distinctly different from the last, and plenty of bright patterns, fluttering fabrics, and intriguing art pieces will inevitably catch your eye.
Painted Tree, which resembles an upscale vintage market with individual booths for each seller, allows local artists and shop owners to get into a space and sell products. The big difference? You’re not buying items that are thrifted and are then re-sold. You’re shopping high-end products that are either handmade or curated specifically for the community by the storefront’s owner. Paris Bradford, Painted Tree Cincy’s general manager, explains. “We take pride in creating opportunities for people to use their gifts to create, inspire and thrive. We do this by offering the ability to actualize their
dream of having a physical storefront— without the fear or risks that come with the overhead of a stand-alone brick-andmortar store.”
It’s like an always-there posh craft fair. “Every corner of our store is packed with the best gifts, treats, vintage ware, home decor, and on-trend clothing boutiques,” gushes Paris. “I’m so proud of what we’ve been able to create here … it has been such a labor of love.”
Shopping at Painted Tree Boutiques will leave you looking stylish and feeling heart-warmed, as it’s not a big corporation you’re buying into. Instead, you’re supporting neighbors. “This is their livelihood—and we get to help them grow it. It’s so rewarding to work with local small businesses, because you see the positive effects in the community,” Paris says of all of their vendors. Next time you need that swoon-worthy outfit, or the perfect gift, check out this unique boutique spot right in Harpers Station!
PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHANIE MEINBERG ARTICLE BY NICOLE BROWNING
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 straightlined 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.
OF THE MOST influential PIECES OF CLOTHING.
“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. “I selected this collection of dresses to show the versatility of the black dress and to give women some new ideas of how to wear the evening gown with a train on a night out with her girlfriends or the traditional summer strappy maxi dress while running errands in cooler temperatures.”
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 sample of recently sold properties in Loveland.
SEPTEMBER 2ND
Loveland Art Festival
WHISTLE STOP CLAY WORKS | 11:00 AM
Your favorite outdoor art fest has a new name (formerly the Pottery Affaire), and an even bigger collection of artists, displays, food and fun to peruse, partake and enjoy! In its sixth year, the newly styled Art Festival will also boast live music, food trucks, and adult beverages—all to showcase its local pottery, paintings, jewelry, woodwork and much more. LovelandArtFestival.com
SEPTEMBER 2ND
Trailside Tunes: Vudu Childe
NISBET PARK | 1:00 PM
An intimate, cozy, acoustic concert right inside Nisbet’s brand-new gazebo! Come cop a squat in the park or plan to stop during a bike ride or river-fun day, this pop-up show will feature Vudu Childe, a soulful, vibrant singer, songwriter and guitarist—with his unique sound of blues, rock, soul and country. An afternoon performance not to be missed! lovinlifeloveland.com/events/trailside-tunes-vudu-child/
SEPTEMBER 16TH
Landscape Quilting Class: Session 1
THE QUILTER’S STUDIO | 10:00 AM
Ever wanted to turn your favorite photo into a timeless quilt? Wish granted, with this one-of-a-kind quilting experience taught over a two-class workshop (session 2 is October 21st). With step-by-step instruction and hands-on guidance, you’ll learn how to copy your chosen picture to a base fabric, then use free motion threads to complete your landscape. Registration, $90 (covers both sessions). QuiltersStudioOfLoveland.com
SEPTEMBER 23RD
DOWNTOWN MILFORD | 11:00 AM
Another affaire to remember, this annual show is a juried event that features original art and fine craft (look for Loveland’s own JL Ariel Views!). From photography to print, mixed media to metals, sculpture to stained glass, an amazing display of talent will take over Main Street for a one-day-only extravaganza presented by the Greater Milford Area Historical Society. MilfordHistory.net/events/art-affaire/
SEPTEMBER 23RD
SUMMIT PARK | 11:00 AM
Talk about a dog day afternoon—this annual event is packed with pup-centric vendors and activities (frisbee demos to agility courses to costume parade). All proceeds benefit the United Pet Fund, a nonprofit working with 100+ local animal shelters and rescues to provide support, supplies and much-needed resources. A doggo play-day that also helps other pets in need? Woof, yes! UnitedPetFund.org/paws-in-the-park
SEPTEMBER 30TH
VALLEY VIEW FOUNDATION | 5:00 PM
Raise a glass and come Sip & Stroll along the trails at this annual fall-fabulous event—an evening of exploring and celebrating all Valley View has to offer across the gardens, grounds and barn. This year’s fun includes live music, drinks, Joe Napoli’s Pizza, wagons, carts and a barn party to boot. Trail attire recommended, tickets and sponsorships available now! ValleyViewCampus.org/toast-to-the-view
Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Loveland
