The Ladies Issue
To the Ladies of Medina County
We are so excited to dedicate this issue of Medina County Lifestyle to the amazing wives, mothers and daughters of Medina County. With Mother’s Day this month, all eyes are on moms… But it’s not just the biological mothers but the mother figures in our lives who have made an indelible impact on us. It’s the family members, teachers, friends and neighbors doing awesome things in our communities, pouring into our lives — making themselves unforgettable and irreplaceable.
While it’s always important to shop local and support our area businesses, this month is the perfect time to patronize businesses owned by women in our communities. That’s one of my favorite parts of this role — connecting with and championing the best of the best when it comes to Medina County’s women. They are movers and shakers, builders and makers. They are both seen and unseen. Their attention to detail shows us something about beauty that can’t be seen or understood any other way.
I hope you’ll take a few minutes to send a text, make a phone call or get your kids on a video call with the women in your life who deserve recognition. It only takes a minute to brighten someone’s day and remind them how much you love them.
Until next month,
EMILY SHEA-OWEN, EDITOR @MEDINACOUNTYLIFESTYLE
May 2025
PUBLISHER
Joe Violi | joe.violi@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Emily Shea-Owen | emily.shea@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Martha Doyle | martha.doyle@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Erin Baka, Shannon Caperton, Tina Sabol, Emily Shea-Owen
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Medina County District Library, Rekira Luketic Photography, Hannah & Camera Photography, Courtney Paige Photography, Home Sweet Home Remodeling, Shine Acupuncture & Wellness
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford
LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
inside the issue
Upscale Barn Weddings in
UPSCALE BARN WEDDINGS IN MEDINA
ARTICLE BY EMILY SHEA-OWEN PHOTOGRAPHY BY COURTNEY PAIGE PHOTOGRAPHY AND HANNAH & CAMERA PHOTOGRAPHY
WHITE BIRCH BARN & VINEYARD OFFERS
Nestled among the rolling hills of Northeast Ohio farmland and just 10 minutes from the Medina Square is the rustic chic wedding venue and event space White Birch Barn & Vineyard. The family-owned venue boasts a meticulously manicured property that includes an array of charming features — from a dreamy outdoor ceremony space complete with a gazebo to a scenic pond surrounded by white birch and willow trees.
One thing truly so special about White Birch Barn is its history. The venue sits on over 300 acres of pristine Ohio farmland that was purchased by fourth generation owner Eric Gasser’s great-grandfather in the early 1930s. For decades, the property was a functioning dairy farm — Eric even grew up milking cows on the farm. Then, in 2015, Eric and his wife Samantha took the leap to renovate and restore the property into a wedding venue.
Now, White Birch Barn is celebrating its ninth year as a premier Northeast Ohio wedding venue, proving that you don’t have to travel far for the barn wedding of your dreams. In fact, White Birch Barn boasts the perfect balance between convenience and seclusion. The venue’s undeniable rustic charm makes it hard to believe that popular hotel options are just 15 minutes down the road. When it comes to stand-out features and amenities, White Birch Barns has all that and more. The below are always included in the price of the venue rental:
• A 4,200-square-foot historic open framed barn that can accommodate up to 200 guests for the reception
• A dreamy open courtyard area below the barn with a fire pit and patio
• A magazine-worthy outdoor reception space complete with a charming gazebo (with an indoor space offered as a backup in case of rain or inclement weather)
• A gorgeous lake and pavilion area next to the barn for pictures • Two newly renovated indoor restrooms in the original milking parlor
• Coordination of vendor deliveries and setup
• A gorgeous bridal suite in the main barn
• A catering kitchen
• Day of set up of tables and chairs
• Ceremony rehearsal 1-2 days before the wedding
White Birch Barn also has optional add-ons, like linen rentals, barn drapery and day-of event coordination — all of which are available for a fee.
To learn more about White Birch Barn and book a tour, visit WhiteBirchBarn.com. Follow White Birch Barn on Instagram at Instagram.com/ WhiteBirchBarn to see more pictures of the venue and past weddings.
WelcomeHome
Aruba Chaise Lounge
ARTICLE BY SHANNON CAPERTON
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHINE ACUPUNCTURE & WELLNESS
ACUPUNCTURE AND THE LIFECYCLE OF WOMEN
A HOLISTIC APPROACH
“ACUPUNCTURE PROVIDES A HOLISTIC APPROACH TO WOMEN’S HEALTH THROUGHOUT THEIR LIFE CYCLE.”
Acupuncture, a traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body, has gained popularity in recent years for its ability to promote health and well-being. For women, who experience a myriad of physical and emotional changes throughout their lives, acupuncture offers a unique and effective modality to support them during various stages, from puberty to menopause and beyond.
PUBERTY AND MENSTRUAL HEALTH
Puberty is a time marked by the onset of menstruation and significant hormonal changes. Many young women experience irregular periods, cramps and mood swings during this transition. Acupuncture can help regulate menstrual cycles, alleviate pain and balance hormones, providing relief from symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS). By regulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian (HPO) axis acupuncture supports overall reproductive health and helps young women navigate this pivotal stage with greater ease.
FERTILITY AND PREGNANCY
As women enter their reproductive years, many face challenges related to fertility. Whether it is due to stress, hormonal imbalances or underlying health conditions, acupuncture has been shown to enhance fertility by improving ovarian function, increasing blood flow to the uterus, and reducing stress levels. Numerous studies have highlighted acupuncture’s effectiveness in increasing the success rates of assisted reproductive technologies, including in vitro fertilization (IVF).
Pregnancy is another critical phase in a woman’s life cycle, characterized by profound physical and emotional transformations. Acupuncture can support expectant mothers by alleviating common pregnancy-related discomforts such as nausea, fatigue and back pain. Additionally, acupuncture promotes relaxation and emotional well-being, helping to mitigate anxiety and stress during this transformative period. During late pregnancy, acupuncture can also be used to prepare the body for labor and delivery, helping to align the pelvis and reduce the duration of labor.
MENOPAUSE AND BEYOND
As women approach middle age, they often experience perimenopause and menopause symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings and sleep disturbances. Acupuncture serves as a natural remedy to alleviate these
menopausal symptoms by balancing hormone levels via the aforementioned HPO axis and regulating body temperature via its effect on the vagus nerve. By targeting specific acupuncture points, practitioners can help women manage their discomfort and improve their quality of life during this transition.
Beyond menopause, acupuncture continues to be beneficial for women as they age. It supports emotional health, reduces the risk of chronic conditions and promotes overall well-being. As women face the challenges of aging, acupuncture can help manage symptoms associated with conditions such as arthritis, osteoporosis and cardiovascular issues, allowing them to maintain a more active and satisfying lifestyle.
Acupuncture provides a holistic approach to women’s health throughout their life cycle, addressing the unique challenges they face at each stage. By balancing hormones, reducing stress and alleviating physical discomforts, acupuncture empowers women to navigate their lives with resilience and vitality. As a natural and complementary therapy, it can be an essential part of a woman’s healthcare routine, supporting her well-being and enhancing her quality of life from adolescence through to her later years. As awareness of its benefits continues to grow, acupuncture remains a valuable ally in the journey of womanhood.
To learn more about acupuncture and to book an appointment with a local practitioner, visit ShineAcupuncture.com
Our Neuro Sympathetic Reset (NSR) is a 20-minute outpatient procedure that effectively resets the sympathetic nervous system to its unstuck, pre-
A REMODEL for mom
Home Sweet Home Remodeling in Northeast Ohio has been transforming homes with expert craftsmanship and innovative design since 2008. Known for their meticulous attention to detail, they specialize in high-quality renovations that blend functionality with style.
A key part of Home Sweet Home’s process is state-of-the-art 3D design renderings, allowing clients to see their vision come to life before construction begins. From kitchens and bathrooms to fullhome remodels, they take pride in delivering exceptional results with professionalism and efficiency.
At Home Sweet Home, they don’t just remodel houses — they create spaces that truly feel like home and they understand that, as homeowners remain in their residences longer, their tastes and preferences naturally evolve. This extended tenure often leads to a desire for home updates that reflect changing styles and enhanced comfort.
Richard Sir Louis, owner and general contractor of Home Sweet Home, founded the company in 2008 after setting records in time management and quality as a general contractor for a top Northeast Ohio home builder. A leader in the industry, he has served as president of the Home Builders Association of Portage and Summit Counties, a board member for the National Association of Home Builders and chairman of the Professional Remodelers Council. His background in photography and design brings an unmatched level of detail to his renderings.
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As a design-build firm, Home Sweet Home manages every aspect of a project from concept to completion, ensuring a seamless experience with clear communication and efficient execution. You can count on customized spaces that enhance both form and function. Whether modern, classic or completely unique, they bring each client’s dream home to life with expert precision. At Home Sweet Home, predictability is a promise. Clients can count on clear timelines, accurate budgets and a stress-free process from start to finish.
“We believe in transparency and reliability, ensuring there are no surprises — just exceptional results delivered on schedule,” says Richard.
Home Sweet Home recognizes that embarking on a home renovation project is a significant decision, both emotionally and financially. They prioritize building strong, trusting relationships with their clients by dedicating considerable time to understanding each individual’s unique needs, preferences and vision for their home. This personalized approach allows them to tailor their services effectively, ensuring that the final result aligns with client expectations and enhances their living spaces. Their commitment to transparency, clear communication and exceptional craftsmanship ensures that clients can rely on them to not only meet but exceed their remodeling needs.
“We believe in transparency and reliability, ensuring there are no surprises — just exceptional results delivered on schedule.”
— Richard Sir Louis
Home Sweet Home’s process begins with an initial consultation to discuss the homeowner’s goals, budget and timeline. Then, they create a customized plan that outlines each step of the remodeling journey. This plan includes a pre-design meeting in the home to assess the space and gather necessary information. The design review phase allows for collaboration and revisions to ensure the design aligns with the homeowner’s vision. Assistance with material selections ensures that choices complement the design and meet preferences. This structured approach ensures that each project is tailored to the homeowner’s needs, resulting in a space that truly feels like home. Is it possible, with Mother’s Day approaching, that there’s a special woman in your life who would love a kitchen or bathroom makeover? Such a thoughtful gift can transform everyday spaces into personalized retreats, enhancing both functionality and beauty. Imagine her delight in receiving a new bathroom counter or a stylish new backsplash in the kitchen. These enhancements not only refresh the home but also provide lasting enjoyment, making Mother’s Day truly memorable.
Call 330.696.1697 for a consultation today. Also, visit HomeSweetHome.co to see more beautiful pictures of Home Sweet Home’s past remodels.
SUMMER FUN AT MEDINA COUNTY DISTRICT LIBRARY
If the summers of your childhood involved made-up adventures with siblings or friends, then the library was probably where you got your ideas. The stories in the books played in your mind like a TV show and creativity seeped out with the sweat on those hot days. Medina County District Library is still the place to find adventures in books. In this digital age, the library is where kids unplug, enjoy events and discover their creativity all while learning, growing and getting ready for the upcoming school year.
STORYTIMES
This year, MCDL has expanded weekly story time sessions to 31 weeks per year. Registration is open for the summer session that spans almost the entire summer break. Brunswick Library Children’s Department Supervisor, Kelly Halleen says, “Our goal as a library is to prepare kids for school and instill a love of books, creativity and zest for learning. Everything we do in story times is aimed at helping every child get ready to learn in school.”
Early literacy skills that children learn in story time and should possess before entering Kindergarten include upper and lowercase letter recognition, matching sounds, rhyming words, ability to retell stories and knowing nursery rhymes. Register at MCDL.info/Storytimes
BOOK BIKE
MCDL is on a roll! The Book Bike is ready for a summer at community events, festivals and parades. The Book Bike has an attached trailer with custom-built enclosed shelves for books. Forget your library card? No problem! Make a selection, no check out required. The Book Bike’s books consist of quality donations and library discards. Tax dollars are not used to buy new books for giveaways. Visit MCDL.info/BookBike to view the Book Bike’s schedule.
ADVENTURE PASSES
Go on a free family adventure with your library card. MCDL’s Adventure Passes can be checked out for up to a week and give you admission, parking and discounts at the Akron Zoo, Akron Art Museum, Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens and the Brunswick Rec Center. Sara Tran, library staff member and mom says, “We’d never been to the Akron Zoo until Adventure Passes became available. The zoo has become our new favorite place and when we have family in town, we make it a point to explore with them.” View pass availability, terms and restrictions at MCDL.info/Adventure .
SUMMER READING
This year’s Summer Reading Game features an art theme for kids and teens, and begins May 30 at all locations. Kids can pick CONTINUED >
up a gameboard at their library and read to earn a prize book of their choice. Teens play online with prize thresholds to win books and prize bundles. Learn more about the games, and teens can create an account now, at MCDL.info/ReadingGame
Complementing this year’s Summer Reading Game are dozens of fun and educational events. Look for Whiz Bang Science Shows,
“WE’D NEVER BEEN TO THE AKRON ZOO UNTIL ADVENTURE PASSES BECAME AVAILABLE. THE ZOO HAS BECOME OUR NEW FAVORITE PLACE AND WHEN WE HAVE FAMILY IN TOWN, WE MAKE IT A POINT TO EXPLORE WITH THEM.”
Cody Clark Magic, Outback Ray, a Chess Skills Clinic and Mad Science and Crayola Imagine Arts Academy. View featured summer events and register at MCDL.info/Events
TIPS FOR SUMMER READING SUCCESS
• Reading to young children is excellent for brain development, bonding and trust. Exposing children to books at a young age is linked to better school performance later in life.
• Reluctant readers may discover their love of reading over the summer. Ask a librarian for recommendations based on your child’s interests. Allow your child to choose their books so they take ownership and pride in their selections.
• Prevent the “summer slide.” Kids don’t want to lose reading skills over the summer. Encourage reading by asking questions about their stories. They notice your interest and may give you an oral book report without even realizing it!
PREPARE FOR THEIR FUTURE NAVIGATING COLLEGE SAVINGS
Smart Strategies for Rising Education Costs
It's never to early to plan for the the journey of higher education. Rising college costs demand early planning. Explore practical options like 529 plans, Coverdell ESAs, and more. Don't let the growing costs of education disrupt your own retirement plans.
Start their journey with a strong financial f foundation. Schedule your complimentary consultation at (330) 473-1060 to explore effective college savings strategies for their educational future.
A Vital Ally in Supporting Women’s Health
HORMONE THERAPY IS A GAME-CHANGER FOR MANY WOMEN NAVIGATING PERIMENOPAUSE AND MENOPAUSE
ARTICLE BY EMILY SHEA-OWEN
Meet Infinity Wellness — a premier wellness center in Medina County that offers treatments to help you look and feel like your best self. Their services range from weight loss to IV hydration, aesthetic, and hormone therapy.
As women approach their 40s and 50s, many begin experiencing a series of physical and emotional changes that mark the transition into perimenopause and menopause. Hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, sleep disturbances and brain fog are just a few symptoms that can significantly disrupt quality of life. For decades, hormone therapy (HT) has been a cornerstone of treatment for these issues, offering both relief and restoration.
Hormone therapy, particularly when started during the early stages of perimenopause or shortly after menopause, can be profoundly beneficial. Estrogen, often combined with progesterone in women who still have a uterus, helps replenish hormone levels that naturally decline during this phase. For many women, HT provides rapid and effective relief from vasomotor symptoms (hot flashes and night sweats), improves sleep quality and enhances overall well-being. In addition, hormone therapy helps maintain bone density, reducing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures — critical concerns as women age.
Menopause is not a disease — it’s a natural life transition. Hormone therapy is not a one-size-fits-all solution, but for many women navigating perimenopause and menopause, it can be a game-changer.
Ladies, don’t let menopausal symptoms or other hormone imbalances wreak havoc on your life. HT may be able to help. Learn more at Infinity-Wellness.Net or call 234.546.1110 to set up an appointment.
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MAY 3RD
10th Annual Great Anglophile Bake Off: Savoury Bakes
Brunswick Library | 1:00 PM
Home bakers are invited to compete in this annual event. This year’s theme is Savoury Bakes. Register at MCDL.info for more details, including the baking requirements. Spectators do not need to register.
MAY 4TH
Duo Colombiano: Latin Influences
Wadsworth Public Library | 2:00 PM
Ohio Regional Music Arts and Cultural Outreach (ORMACO) and the Wadsworth Public Library continue Live at the Library showcasing Kurt Reed on the guitar and David Londono on the cello. The duo will perform music from various decades, all while highlighting the Latin influences. The event is free to attend. Learn more at Ormaco.org
MAY 11TH
Mother’s Day
Wildflower Walk
Hubbard Valley Park | 2:00 PM
All are welcome to observe the expansive wildflowers in bloom on this walk. A naturalist will identify and share information on the abundant spring ephemerals of Hubbard Valley Park. Register to attend for free at MedinaCountyParks.com
MAY 15TH
Come to the Cabaret: An Evening of Cole Porter
Corkscrew Saloon | 6:00 PM
ORMACO presents this dinner and cabaret show featuring the music of Cole Porter performed by vocalist Maria Jacobs and pianist Rock Wehrmann. Attendance is limited, so book your ticket for $65 at Ormaco.org now. The ticket price includes dinner and a drink.
MAY 23RD
The Blue Ribbon Trio
John Streeter Garden Amphitheater | 6:30 PM
ORMACO and the Friends of the Secrest Arboretum kick off their summer Music at the Arboretum concert series with a blue grass performance by Northeast Ohio band The Blue Ribbon Trio. Tickets are free, but be sure to register at Ormaco.org to ensure a seat.
MAY 28TH
Alternatives to Invasive Species
Highland Library | 6:30 PM
Learn about invasive species and what to plant around your home that isn’t harmful to your local ecosystem. This program is free and no registration is required.
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• Having 5 or more sunburns doubles your risk for melanoma.
• When detected early, the 5-year survival rate for melanoma is 99%.
include an exam to look for any abnormal moles or lesions. If any concern is found during your exam, a follow-up visit will be scheduled for a biopsy and treatment of these ndings.
