Kids & Pets
MEET THE FACE BEHIND KANSAS CITY’S GLOW
As the founder of Leyla Sufi Skin, licensed esthetician Leyla Sufi has built a boutique facial spa rooted in results, intention, and luxury. With a background in both hospitality and corrective skincare, Leyla has become known for her personalized treatments that focus on acne, hyperpigmentation, aging, and overall skin health.
“I believe in taking the confusion out of skincare,” she says. “Each service is fully customized, blending science-backed treatments with the art of relaxation.”
While many clients come in with specific concerns, Leyla emphasizes that you don’t have to wait for breakouts, sensitivity, or signs of aging to benefit. “Facials aren’t just for correction—they’re for prevention, too. Anyone can enjoy a relaxing, effective treatment that supports long-term skin health.”
Located in Kansas City’s historic Garment District, Leyla Sufi Skin welcomes all. Whether you’re just beginning your skin journey or ready to level up your glow, Leyla’s approach is gentle, effective, and deeply client-focused.
SERVICES
Microneedling | Chemical Peels
Bespoke Facials | Consultations
CONTACT US
LeylaSufiSkin.com | (816) 974-7206 800 Broadway Blvd Unit 100 Kansas City, MO 64105
New Construction Renovation Furnishings
The Purest Joys
August is a meaningful month for me — both personally and professionally. This month marks one year since Mission Hills City Lifestyle began publishing under my ownership. What started out with my editor and I, has grown into more than I could have imagined! In this past year we have built a powerful team of women, who show up every day with heart, talent, and consistency! Together, we’re continuing to grow, evolve, and create ways to connect people, cele brate leadership, and highlight the beauty of our community.
This month’s issue — themed Kids & Pets — speaks to the purest joys of life. Our children and pets remind us how to be present, to love freely, and to live with wonder. In this edition, you’ll meet Kristin Smith, the heart behind Moments of Magic, who creates unforgettable experiences, turning her clients’ dreams of Disney Destination Vacations into a reality! We highlight PawsAbilities, an amazing organization that makes beautifully crafted products for pets and is making a positive impact by supporting the development of individuals with disabilities. We are also honored to feature Forever Smiles Foundation , dedicated to transforming lives through comprehensive cleft and cranial facial care, and Arosa Care, the premier provider of care management and caregiving services in the nation!
August is also a deeply personal month for me. I’ve walked through tragedy and loss, and I know how heavy life can feel. But I also believe in the power of allowing tragedy to form new meaning and purpose. I believe in joy for mourning, and beauty for ashes. My “why” is to bring honor to the life of my daughter Elise, and to create a world of opportunity for my children, Kaden and Hope. Their strength fuels mine and is the reason I keep going! With that vision and drive in mind, I will also begin the Executive MBA program through Rockhurst University this month. Not only is the EMBA a personal goal — it’s a strategic investment in the future of my family, this business, my team, and the community we serve. I’m here to grow, to lead, and to build something lasting that makes a difference.
Thank you for being part of this journey. For believing in this publication, and for valuing connection, storytelling, and community impact. Let’s continue to live intentionally. Love deeply. Celebrate the ones we cherish. And show up with courage, even when life feels heavy. There is much joy to be found, even in the hardest seasons, when we choose to live with purpose and heart. SARAH JOHNS, PUBLISHER
August 2025
PUBLISHER
Sarah Johns | sarah.johns@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Victoria Moore | victoria.moore@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Rebecca Spears | rebecca.spears@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Katie Bode | katie.bode@citylifestyle.com
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
Sarah Elise Seidel | sarahelise.seidel@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Rita Strickland | rita.strickland@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Emmalee Rathsam | emmalee@emmaleerathsam.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Linda Ditch, Bev Weidner
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Inclusion Connections, Emmalee Rathsam, Kristin Smith, DEMDACO
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich
LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
Proverbs 3:5-6
city scene
WHERE
NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
Taylor Hornbaker, owner of Method Pediatric Therapy and Wellness, opened a clinic in Mission Hills. 2: She serves children through occupational therapy, physical therapy, and speech-language therapy with a child-centered approach.
Photography by McKenna Bostick Photography
Ready to support your child’s growth?
Request a consultation today:
T h e r a py th a t S u p p o r t s th e W h o l e Fa m i l y
At Method, we help families build calm, connected, and sustainable lives—right from the comfort of home.
Our licensed pediatric specialists use sensory and playbased methods in every therapy session. With a wellnesscentered approach, we support not only your child—but your whole family.
Speech & language development
Social skills
Feeding therapy (infants to adolescents)
Emotional regulation
Executive functioning
Pre-reading & reading fluency/comprehension
Wellness
Everything we do is designed to fit seamlessly into your real life—helping your family thrive, together.
Grounde d in care Guide d by wellnes s Built for your family
1:
CLEAN. COMPASSIONATE. HOLISTIC HEALING. FROM YOUR MOUTH TO
YOUR WHOLE BEING.
JOHN HUMPHREY JR DDS
JOHN HUMPHREY JR DDS
Meet Dr. Humphrey—A devoted husband and proud father of three, Dr. Humphrey brings more than 20 years of experience as a board-certified Biological Dentist. He is passionate about helping clients achieve total body wellness through a holistic and biological approach to oral health. Known for his warm, compassionate care, Dr. Humphrey and his team create an experience that is empowering for everyone who walks through his doors.
Dr. Humphrey has been caring for clients since 2003, committing himself to developing a depth of knowledge in holistic care. His passion lies is seeing how biological dentistry can contribute to optimal health and total body wellness.
Welcome Pawsitively Polite to Mission Hills City Lifestyle
Fascinated by dog behavior, Debbie Tangen set out to make a career as a certified dog trainer. With multiple certifications under her belt, she started Pawsitively Polite Dog Obedience Training. She desires to help people whose dogs exhibit reactive or inappropriate behaviors, investigate potential causes and build a plan that will eliminate or greatly reduce the incidence of the behaviors. To schedule a free consultation in the Kansas City Metro area, contact Debbie: 816-686-4766
Photography by Anne Claire Tangen
CA N I N ES AND COUTURE
BEJEWELED PUPS MODELING VINCA JEWELRY
ARTICLE BY VICTORIA MOORE AND BECCA SPEARS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMMALEE RATHSAM
Dasher, Standard Poodle (opposite page)
Dasher is wearing Vinca’s
and
Cocoa, Pitbull Terrier mix (this page)
Cocoa is wearing a layered variety of Vinca’s 18 karat and 14 karat yellow and white gold chains.
White Baroque Pearl Necklace, Tahitian Circle Pearl Strand
Peach Baroque Pearl Strand.
Coco, Cane Corso/ Bull Mastiff mix (opposite page - top)
Coco is balancing Vinca’s Interlocking Oval Diamond Ring on her nose. The ring is made up of 137 brilliant cut diamonds totaling 1.71 carats.
Lola, French Bulldog (opposite page - bottom left) Muffin, Long-haired Chihuahua (this page)
Lola is wearing Vinca’s 13.37 carat White Topaz Oval Cut Pendant in 18 karat white gold accented with round fancy blue sapphire and 66 round cut diamonds.
Muffin is wearing Vinca’s 27.5 carat Trillion Cut Morganite Necklace in 18 karat rose gold. Beside her are Jade and Moonstone rings and Jade bangles in velvet boxes.
All Pricing Available from Vinca Jewelry upon request.
Unlimited Coworking
ASPECIAL I NGREDIENT
Delicious dog treats, infectious smiles and a joyous atmosphere–this is what every customer can expect when visiting PawsAbilties in Olathe, Kansas. This specialty pet store sells handmade dog treats, toys and apparel, but one special ingredient sets it apart–its people. PawsAbilities intentionally employs adults with developmental disabilities, and they are the reason Director of Development Erin Galba refers to the building as the happiest place on earth. “While there are challenges and hurdles our students may face, there’s a lot of joy, fun and happiness,” Galba added.
PawsAbilties’ mission is much greater than just a storefront. It is a program designed to teach these adults the skills they need to work a job in their community.
PawsAbilities teaches life and job skills to adults with developmental disabilties
ARTICLE BY VICTORIA MOORE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DEMDACO AND INCLUSION CONNECTIONS
Debbie Horn founded this program in 2013 out of the nonprofit Inclusion Connections. She hoped to give her son, Matt, the opportunity to pursue independence and fulfillment in adulthood. Today, he is a thriving 29-year-old who works at PawsAbilities and holds additional jobs in the community.
“A misperception can be that those with intellectual and developmental disabilities don’t have the same hopes and dreams as the rest of us, and it’s just not true. All of our students want a future,” Galba said.
Each year, PawsAbilities enrolls around 250 students into its personalized program and continues to grow its waitlist. These adults learn how to make and sell goods, operate a store and retain transferable skills, including customer service and creating quality products. Once they receive their certification, they begin applying for jobs within a list of over 50 employers.
“86% of our students are currently employed in the community,” Galba said. “If you’re successful in your job, you walk home at the end of the day feeling proud of yourself. There is a confidence factor.”
Galba says people are often surprised to learn that PawsAbilities is not government-funded. Everything they have is based on donations, grants, yearly fundraisers and revenue from the products they sell.
“If you’re successful in your job, you walk home at the end of the day feeling proud of yourself. There is a confidence factor.”
“The community gets to purchase with a purpose,” she said. “All proceeds go back into this program to create good in the community.”
Thoughts of an adult dancing after receiving their first paycheck, or of two students getting engaged through PawAbiltiies–these are the memories that solidify the desire of Galba and her team to see every adult with developmental disabilities accomplish their dreams.
“We all know what hope does for an individual. There’s a lot of hope here. I hope we can continue to grow and serve until there is no longer a waitlist. My dream is to see everybody’s needs fulfilled,” she said.
CREATING MAGICAL MOMENTS
Travel agent Kristin Smith plans family vacations that turn into lifelong memories
ARTICLE BY VICTORIA MOORE PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMMALEE RATHSAM AND PROVIDED
Watching your kids grow up is a magical thing. From first steps and first words to graduations and weddings, a lifetime of memories can add up quickly. Moments of Magic Travel agent Kristin Smith believes unforgettable moments can exist between the milestones, too. As a mom of two, she has experienced the incredible bonds and lifelong memories that seamless travel can create for families.
“I think the magic comes from the stories,” Smith recalled. “My kids will tell me things from when they were two years old, things I wouldn’t think that they could remember. It captured a moment in their brain, but I’m making core memories at the same time. Together, we take our memories and create one larger picture for the family to remember on those trips.”
Dreams about the perfect vacation should not be overwhelmed by the tedious and stressful nature of planning the trip. That is where Smith comes in. By taking the planning off her clients’ plates, she helps to keep those dreams alive. An initial conversation is how she gathers the information to build a vacation to fit each family’s needs. Every detail, from hotel preferences and amenities to excursions and relaxation, is considered within the parameters of a provided budget.
“I know some people love to do it on their own, but even those people could benefit from somebody who is in it day-to-day. There is a lot that we see on the trade side that the public doesn’t necessarily see right away. That is a bonus! We can prep our clients for transitions to make the changes easier, so they don’t feel it. You have got it taken care of, so it is seamless,” she informed.
One area Smith is exceptionally skilled in navigating is the Walt Disney Company. This includes Adventures by Disney, Disney World, Disneyland (California and abroad) and Disney Cruise Line. A misadventure on her family’s first trip to Disney World is what led Smith to consider a career as a travel planner. She realized that with some research beforehand, it would have been a smoother visit. Now, as someone with access to the right information, she wants every family to experience a Disney adventure the right way.
“I can’t even tell you how many Disney trips I’ve planned. They’re all different in some way. That’s what keeps it fresh and exciting,” Smith said. “Parents will say, ‘Oh, we love this character, or we love the princesses.’ That’s going to tell me to look into Princess Meet and Greets or Princess Dining. A big one right now is Universal Studios that just opened a new park featuring Super Mario Brothers.”
While Disney is a huge draw for many families, what makes Smith an exceptional agent is her ability to guide clients to the best vacation for their family. As part of a network with 130 agents nationwide, she has the contacts in place to provide the best experience for each family member.
“Whether it’s Disney, a theme park, cruise or an all-inclusive, all of those skills can be tailored to any location. I’ve got some neighbors who are very outdoorsy. I told them, ‘I need to get you on a National Geographic trip.’ A lot of people don’t even know National Geographic offers tours and guided trips, which I think is a cool experience,” Smith said.
Just like a family doctor or family hairstylist, Smith desires to be a staple in her clients’ lives, a small piece of family memories that can span generations.
“My goal is to start with a family when they’re kids,” Smith shared. “Ideally, I would start with them when they’re in the younger years and work with them as they get a little bit more adventurous or want to try new things. Then, celebrating graduations, moving into honeymoons, and then planning those multigenerational family trips as well. I’m not just a one-and-done travel agent. I want to be a part of your family. Who wouldn’t be ecstatic to have that effect on others!”
TRAVEL
Start the conversation. Smith likes to remind travelers that, many times, booking directly will cost the same as booking through her. Thanks to her knowledge and research, the best deals are always top of mind.
Reach out to schedule a conversation and begin the planning process: ksmith@momentsofmagictravel.com
forever smiles
A foundation that helps children with cleft palate and craniofacial issues here and abroad
A child born with a cleft palate or other craniofacial difference faces a tough road forward. Correcting the problem typically requires five to seven surgeries, as well as oral dental treatments for years to repair the condition. Add in the stigma that follows anyone who looks “different,” and it is easy to see how hard life can be, both for the kids and the parents.
This is where Forever Smiles Foundation can make the journey easier. The nonprofit, founded by surgeons Robert O. Weiss II, MD, DDS, and Patrick D. Christopher, MD, DDS, helps alleviate the financial and emotional burden for families undergoing this process. They not only see patients through their private practice, Kansas City Cleft & Craniofacial Center and at Overland Park Regional Medical Center, but they also travel to Tanzania, Africa to treat children.
“For the domestic arm of what we do, we allocate a certain percentage of funds to help kids either afford the surgeries, transportation, or the products necessary for their care, such as specialty bottle systems and formula,” says Dr. Weiss II. “There are a lot of other aspects of care that have out-of-pocket expenses, such as tutorials or support for mom and dad. Often, it’s challenging to maintain employment and
ARTICLE BY LINDA DITCH
PHOTOGRAPHY
PROVIDED
provide for your kid. And the majority of kids will need some type of orthodontic intervention with braces, which are 99.9 percent not covered. So, the foundation was set up to be able to provide for that additional assistance.”
The overseas mission of the foundation is vital to Dr. Christopher, who is from Africa and wants to give back to his homeland. He has made numerous trips overseas so far, both to places in Africa and Central America.
Unlike some medical charities that travel overseas, perform a procedure, and then leave, Forever Smiles has partnered with The Same Qualities Foundation to establish an infrastructure in Tanzania that enables ongoing healthcare continuity. A significant portion of their efforts involves training surgeons in the region, and then ultimately funding an entire clinic space to match the care they provide in the United States. This also enables them to follow up with their patients and work with the same team each time they are in the area.
Dr. Patrick D. Christopher, MD, DDS
“There is a huge need there. I feel very strongly that I can serve a population better by not spreading myself amongst 10 different countries but staying loyal to one and trying to have a true impact in the way care is delivered,” Dr. Weiss II said.
When asked why this work is so important to him, Dr. Weiss II pointed out the considerable effect the children have on him.
“The majority of kiddos born with cleft lip and palate have no associated intellectual disabilities. They’re very smart and live normal lives. But without having their clefts addressed, they have significant issues with feeding and speech, not to mention the social implications and hardships. There are not many kiddos like these, who have been through three, four, or five surgeries by the time they’re seven or eight. These are very, very strong children, mentally, physically, and emotionally,” he said.
“There aren’t many kiddos like these, who have been through multiple surgeries by seven or eight. These are very strong children–mentally, physically, and emotionally.”
Learn more about Forever Smiles Foundation and donate at foreversmiles-foundation.org.
Also, join the foundation for a night of elegance and philanthropy at their Formal Gala on Friday, October 10, from 6:30 to 11 p.m. at the Union Station Grand Plaza. The evening includes a VIP cocktail hour, sit-down dinner, live and silent auctions, and a fun after-party. Tickets are available on the foundation’s website.
Dr. Robert O. Weiss II, MD, DDS
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CARE Beyond Age
AROSA SUPPORTS EVERY MEMBER OF THE FAMILY
—EVEN THE FOUR-LEGGED ONES
Life has a way of throwing curveballs. The mental stress and physical toll of a health diagnosis or the emotional road to recovery can leave individuals and families with burdens too heavy to carry alone.
Arosa Kansas City recognizes the impact these changes can have on a household, especially when they come out of left field. From patients to their pets, Arosa’s team of Care Professionals meet clients in their circumstances and are happy to share the load.
“In any life stage, we want to take the stress and burden off of a situation and allow you to be the parent, be the child, be the sister–allow you to be the family. It allows us to be the professionals and to help you navigate,” Area Director Betsy Welch said.
“Everybody needs care. Care management and home care services are not just for aging adults. It’s about supporting the full household ecosystem.”
Arosa is the largest non-franchised home care company in the country, with offices in 13 states. They utilize an integrated care model, which combines Care Management with Home Care. While many people associate home care with the elderly community, Welch added that 40 percent of its home care nationwide clients are under the age of 65. Arosa’s team is just as equipped to support children living with disabilities or recovering from injuries as they are for adults.
“Everybody needs care. Care management and home care services are not just for aging adults. It’s about supporting the full household ecosystem,” she said. “We can support a child at home or join them on an outing so everyone can be present and connected in their way. Our goal is to help families make the most of their time together.”
Intentional questions during the initial assessment allow Arosa to create an individualized care plan. The goal is to provide peace of mind by paying attention to the smallest details and discussing life-changing decisions. Observing personalities and preferences is also an important factor in helping Arosa pair its clients with the best Caregiver.
“How’s the furniture arranged? Are there rugs that you can trip on? How’s the lighting? You have a diagnosis or a special need? We help you navigate the health care system and the education system.” Welch informed. “We strive to match our Caregivers with the needs of the clients. For instance, if we have a client who loves to garden, we’d strive to match them with a Caregiver who shares their passion. What a match made in heaven!”
Welch has witnessed how loneliness can affect a person’s overall health. One of the best solutions to this problem? Furry friends! That is why including family pets in their area of care is so vital to what Arosa can provide.
“Pets are a part of your family!” she said. “We can walk pets. We can take them to the vet, or we can change out the kitty litter. We want to help somebody keep their pet at home. It keeps them happy and joyful.”
Schedule a call with Arosa Kansas City: (913) 600-5970 kansascity@arosacare.com
This magazine is how Sarah redefined success.
This is more than a role; it’s a platform for purpose. City Lifestyle publishers step into something bigger: the freedom to lead, the fulfillment of impact, and the pride of building something that matters. The opportunity to lead with meaning is calling. Could your next chapter begin here?
Mission Hills City Lifestyle
Your story is waiting. Explore open markets nationwide.
Published by Sarah Loved by Mission Hills
EASY HOMEMADE PIZZA ROLLS
ingredients:
• 2 large tortillas
• 1/2 cup of favorite pizza sauce
• Cheese of choice
• Dried thyme
directions:
Step 1. Slice the tortillas into even strips. Evenly and lightly spread some pizza sauce along each strip. Top with cheese of choice and sprinkle with thyme. Roll up!
Step 2. Pop in the toaster oven, seam-side down for about 5 minutes. Maybe 7. Just keep an eye on them until they’re browned on top and crispy, and the cheese is melted and oozing out.
Step 3. Serve immediately.
@bevcooks bevcooks.com
ARTICLE BY BAILEY HALL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DARIA TERRY
DIY DOG BIRTHDAY PARTY
THROW A PAWSOME BIRTHDAY PARTY FOR YOUR FURRY FRIEND
DIY PARTY FAVORS FOR DOGS
Create delightful DIY party favors for your dog guests by filling small bags or boxes with goodies. Include a tennis ball for playtime fun and a selection of treats for them to enjoy. You can also add a small toy or chew for variety. These favors ensure that every pup goes home happy and tired from all the play and treats.
TREAT STATION FOR OWNERS
Keep the human guests happy with a creative Treat Station for Owners. Use brand new, clean dog food bowls as serving dishes for snacks like chips, pretzels, and candies. Arrange the bowls on a table with a festive tablecloth and some dog-themed decorations. Label each bowl with fun names like “Puppy Chow” for trail mix or “Doggie Biscuits” for cookies.
HOW TO MAKE A DOG BIRTHDAY CAKE
A birthday party isn’t complete without a cake, even for dogs! To make a dog-friendly birthday cake, start with ingredients like peanut butter, bananas, and carrots. Mix 1 cup of flour, 1/4 cup of rolled oats, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of cinnamon in one bowl. In another bowl, blend 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce, 1/4 cup of peanut butter, 1 mashed banana, and 1/2 cup of grated carrots. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, then pour the batter into a greased cake pan. Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes. Let it cool, then frost with a mixture of Greek yogurt and peanut butter. Decorate with dog treats and serve to your excited pup!
