The Joy of Connection: How Women's Groups Changed My Perspective
This month, our Women's Issue shines a spotlight on ways in which women’s groups and networks are transforming lives. From professional associations that open doors to new career opportunities, to social clubs that offer a sanctuary of understanding and camaraderie, these communities are the bedrock upon which many women build their dreams.
I want to share a bit of my own journey with you. In my previous corporate life, I steered clear of other women. Honestly, my experience with other women in my work world at the time was just not that great. But I believe things have changed. Twenty-five years ago, we had to be on our guard constantly, always looking over our shoulders, always trying to protect what we achieved. But these last few years have shown me a different side that I now fully embrace and am better for it.
The relationships I now have with the women in my life and the many groups I belong to have strengthened me in ways I didn’t think possible. Having a supportive “team” or “network” enables me to learn so much more—and to learn faster. It allows me to share my successes as well as my failures with others, in hopes that I can help them too.
Maybe I’m getting older and don’t have anything to prove like I did years ago. Maybe I’ve mellowed and have learned that women aren’t a threat but a reliable source of energy that can inspire, motivate, and support. How did I not experience this years ago? Or maybe I just wasn’t looking for it? The more I surround myself with great women, the better a person I feel I’m becoming. It feels good to be “building my circles,” as I call them. Connecting women with other women who can assist where I can’t. I’ve built such great friendships with women both younger, wiser, and older than I. The joy I get from the support of the communities I’m a part of has truly transformed me and continues to show me what is possible each and every day.
As you turn the pages of this issue, I hope you feel inspired to seek out and embrace the communities that resonate with you. Together, we can build a world where every woman has the support she needs to dream big, achieve her goals, and uplift others along the way.
With all my heart,
LISA FEDERICO, PUBLISHER
May 2025
PUBLISHER
Lisa Federico | lisa.federico@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Madison Moroi | madison.moroi@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Dawn Zeoli | dawn.zeoli@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Brice Bunner | bunnerb@gmail.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Ashley Labaki, Brice Bunner, Courtney Stone Smith, Madison Moroi, Sarah Rose
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Aseel Brodd, Jessica Love, Samuel Walker
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 Amanda Schilling
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
@COLUMBUSOHREALTOR
@KATIEMCKEE31
1: Worthington Area Chamber of Commerce staff prepare boxes of documents for shredding on Shred Day 2: Kelsey takes a stroll with her golden retrievers Wilson and Uno in Worthington 3: Katie shows off matching tattoos with her mom at She's a Betty! tattoo studio 4: Elizabeth and Hannah from Buckeye Beauty Bar attend the Chamber's EmpowerHer Women's Conference in Worthington 5: Commercial Banking staff attend the Worthington Chamber Women's Business Network Meeting at Aardvark Wine 6: Einar Orn with guests at A Journey of Iceland: From Darkness to Light in Dublin 7: Patrons gather to create candles at Worthington Candle Works on International Women's Day @BUCKEYEBEAUTYBAR
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business monthly
A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES
Worthington Nominated for Two National Awards
The city of Worthington has been nominated for two of USA Today’s Best Readers’ Choice Awards: “Best Historic Small Town” and “Best Small Town in the Midwest.” Not only do these nominations celebrate the rich history of our beautiful town, they also acknowledge the culture, progress, and collaborative spirit that so wonderfully describes our community. Way to go, Worthington!
Timbrook Guesthouse Adds Fresh Colors
The Timbrook Guesthouse, known for its eccentric design, has added a little bit of extra flair to one of its six signature suites. The Santa Fey suite, popular for its authentic artwork and decor from Colorado and New Mexico, has received a bright pop of color, with gold and blue paint replacing the previously neutral wall color. If you already love the Santa Fe suite, don’t worry - its trademark southwestern elegance is still there!
Life Enriching Communities Staff Honored at Pinnacle Awards
Two of LEC’s amazing staff members have been recognized by McKnight’s Senior Living at their third annual Pinnacle Awards. Winifred “Winnie” Allen and Shirley Cort, both resident aides at Wesley Ridge, received the Setting the Standard award for their dedication and outstanding work! These awards are given to professionals with at least 20 years in the senior living field and a commitment to excellence. Congratulations, Winnie and Shirley!
Photography by Ashley Labaki
TIMBROOK TREASURES AWAIT YOU
ARTICLE BY BRICE BUNNER
SEE
WHAT GILMORE GIRLS, AN ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT, AND A LITTLE ISLAND INSPIRATION DID FOR THIS MUST-SEE LOCAL GETAWAY.
When Jill met her Hawaiian husband, she had no idea that Central Ohio would be where the two of them would settle down and start a business. The two met here in town and purchased the Timbrook estate, just off Olentangy River Road, as a place to settle down … and dream.
“We’re dreamers and creators,” Jill Dole, owner and creator of Timbrook Guesthouse says, “and I grew up watching Gilmore Girls. I told my daughters that someday I’m going to open my own Dragonfly.”
DREAMING THE B&B LIFESTYLE
For years, while raising her family, Jill crafted breakfasts (to die for), and the couple made improvements to the estate. But the Timbrook Guesthouse wasn’t a dream come true overnight. In fact, it wasn’t until the recession of 2008, when things really began to take off. “We started getting calls from people asking to rent a room.” Jill recalls. “One after another of renters for a few months or even a year, at times.” She said of her ‘regulars’. “We even had a visitor from Connecticut who would stay every month all the way up to 2020.”
It was these first guests, some of whom were friends of family or family referrals, that paved the way for the Guesthouse to garner its name. ‘Timbrook’, on the other hand, comes from the name of the farmhouse and four acres the Dole’s purchased in 1988 (The Antrim farmland became known as Timbrook when the Timmons family purchased it from Jack Antrim in 1945).
And it’s these four acres that really make the difference. As Jill says, “We set ourselves apart from most B&Bs because we have so much land; we’re more a luxury inn—with lots more amenities.”
Bordering on a boutique hotel, the Guesthouse has 6 different rooms, lush perennial gardens, a heated pool, gazebo and fire pit,
koi pond, and so much more. “We think Columbus has so many things to offer,” says Jill, “so whether you have a reason to come, outside of Timbrook, or if you come because of it, I’ve got a list of things for people to do.”
Coming to Columbus because of Timbrook is the vision Jill has for her own ‘Dragonfly’. When asked why, she said, “Gosh, well, my husband and I went to Maui and there’s this place called Mama’s Fish Market that was really top notch—” she explained, “it’s so good that people go to Maui just to go to Mama’s. We’ve matched that kind of experience.” Then, with a smile, she added, “We wanted to be a Mama’s for Columbus.”
And the ironic twist is that guests of Timbrook are often locals. “Most of our clientele is from Central Ohio.” Jill explains, “Lots of people come to get away without having to go too far.” And you can see why when you drive up to the farmhouse: it’s an island escape tucked away in the middle of the city.
RUNNING THE B&B BUSINESS
The road to steady business is never easy, and for Jill, the hardest part was learning to pivot when roadblocks or business challenges come up. “I would advise young people to follow their dream,” she says, “but always be prepared to pivot. Roadblocks will happen in any industry or career, but those who can alter their views and think outside the box will be more inclined to succeed.” She continued, “But I had to tell myself, ‘I can’t run my business on what other people say’. I had to give that up.
Currently, the Timbrook Guesthouse is forging ahead with an expansion plan at a steady pace despite setbacks that occur with any remodeling project. Despite the setbacks Jill and team are going along at a steady pace thanks to Jill taking her own advice. It’s just as she says, “The road to success can have many avenues.” And we’ll look forward to the big reveal coming soon!
Next to overcoming those roadblocks to remodeling, Jill also had to open her arms to other dreamers. “I’ve always loved being in the kitchen—I love to cook. It does take a village, though.” Jill’s village is comprised of her husband, daughters, and the two employees she’s added since opening. “Those two are wonderful! I couldn’t do it without them.” She added.
VISITING THE B&B GUESTHOUSE
If you need a local getaway or a taste of the island life, book your stay at the Timbrook Guesthouse. The gourmet breakfast is worth the stay, but the grounds and seemingly endless list of amenities are just as wonderful for longtime Ohioans as they are for out-of-town travelers. And don’t forget to say Aloha! to Jill while you’re there.
Photograph: Jessica Love Photography
Photograph: Jessica Love Photography
"PEOPLE
Photograph: Aseel Brodd
OMA'S RHUBARB CAKE
ARTICLE BY MADISON MOROI
One of Jill Dole's Signature Bakes
ingredients:
• 1 1/4 cups white sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup sour cream
• 3 cups diced rhubarb
• 1 cup turbinado sugar
• 1/4 cup butter, softened
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
directions:
Step 1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Step 2. In a large bowl, stir together 1 1/4 cups sugar, baking soda, salt, and 2 cups flour. Stir in the eggs and sour cream until smooth, then fold in the rhubarb. Pour into the prepared dish and spread evenly. In a smaller bowl, stir together the remaining 1 cup sugar and butter until smooth. Stir in 1/4 cup flour until the mixture is crumbly. Sprinkle the mixture on top of the cake then dust lightly with cinnamon.
Step 3. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
The recipe is from Allrecipes.com
STRENGTHENING WOMEN FOR Over 80 Years
A RARE PEEK INSIDE THIS HISTORIC WOMEN’S-ONLY CLUB.
ARTICLE BY BRICE BUNNER
Members break ground for the clubhouse in 1964
Think of the best moments before technology and streaming services, and my guess is you would think of the community we all used to take for granted. Well, in the heart of Clintonville (3951 High Street, to be precise—but more on that later), there is a place where women of all ages build community and enjoy their own rich slice of history.
The Clintonville Woman’s Club (CWC) has a fellowship 220 strong that swaps binging Netflix for connecting IRL to explore a myriad of topics like photography and Mah Jong. “We have about 15 interest groups,” says CWC president, Lynne Bratka, “women who share interests in gardening, painting, cooking, bridge… We also have speakers come in, hold book club in the evenings, or do a ladies’ night out.”
Along with community, history is palpable with this club, as it has been around for nearly a century. “It was started in 1939 by six women,” Said Bratka, “in the homes of the members, and was exclusive to within the Clintonville boundaries.” Lynne Matthaes, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, added, “In 1946 they had 540 members.”
They had outgrown their humble beginnings, thanks in large part to the services the early members offered for wartime efforts. “Much support of the troops by CWC,” said Bratka, “involved serving in the Red Cross, providing bandages, getting things to servicemen.”
Samuel Walker Photography
Clintonville Woman's Club
With this influx of members, the club needed a permanent location. Thankfully, the community stepped in once again. “The local Kiwanis had been saving for a property.” Matthaes explains, “But then the city of Columbus built the Whetstone Rec Center, so Kiwanis sold their property to the CWC in 1951 for $1.”
And now for the serendipity that surrounds this group. Their 3951 address marks the two most significant dates of the club: founded in 1939 and purchased the land, where they still reside, in 1951. But it's this kind of significance that clubs, like the CWC, are all about; a place with a legacy you can tap into.
It comes as no surprise that the CWC is still making history.
As Lynne Bratka says, “We are very specific about working in the community; women helping women . We have social services and papercraft services, we currently support Chillicothe Veterans home and the Clintonville resource center.” The list is long, but Matthaes adds, "we also make blankets for My Very Own Blanket.”
it an ideal location for any time of the year. Just another way the CWC has been keeping the community strong.
This kind of altruism, of course, is nothing new for the CWC. Built into the DNA of the club is generosity and adaptability. “We gave the firehouse their first flag.” Bratka offered, and Matthaes said, “We helped develop the crabapple-tree memory lane on North Broadway.” And during Covid, the club even met over Zoom calls. “That was new for many members, but they adapted!” Matthaes exclaimed, “When you consider our age group, I think it’s pretty awesome that we have members taking on technology.”
"Before, the ladies all wore hats and gowns... we’re much more casual today."
As for taking in new members, “We reach out to women who are younger to find out what they would look for in a club.” Said Matthaes. Bratka added, “We have a few members in their 30s, but the majority are 40 to—well, we recently had a member who passed away at 101.” Proof that belonging to a group as intriguing as the CWC has its perks.
Along with these events and services for and by its members, the clubhouse itself serves as a great public venue for catered events, weddings, and meetings of all kinds. Its proximity to the Park of Roses and Whetstone Rec Center makes
The Clintonville Woman’s Club is seeking new members and invites the community to various programs. A group of women providing service and lifelong friendships for each other and the community. Who knows? You might be part of their history.
ARTICLE BY SARAH ROSE
Outstanding Women’s Groups in Columbus
SPACES FOR WOMEN TO CONNECT WITH AND SUPPORT ONE ANOTHER
Women’s Out Network
No matter age, race, or sexuality, all women are welcome in the Women’s Out Network. Their mission is to provide a safe space and peer-directed support for women from all walks of life. (614) 930-2274
With 220+ members and a history of connecting women since 1937, this group is a Columbus staple. Attend their many social events or rent their event space for a personal celebration or wedding. www.clintonvillewomansclub.com
Women’s Business Network (WBN)
Part of the Worthington Area Chamber of Commerce, this networking group is about connecting and uplifting female business owners with luncheons, mixers, and socials for local businesswomen to attend. www.worthingtonchamber. org/womensbusinessnetwork/
Black Women In Nature (BWIN)
Founded in 2020 to help support the mental health and wellbeing of black women during the pandemic, BWIN has grown into a flourishing wellness group—championing intergenerational programing and environmental justice. www.blackwomeninnature.com
What’s more inspiring than uniting women's voices? This singing group prioritizes female empowerment through collaboration, diversity, inspired activism, and (of course) the power of song. www.colswomenschorus.org
Columbus Women’s Chorus
Clintonville Woman's Club
LUXURY, AT YOUR DOORSTEP
ARTICLE BY COURTNEY STONE SMITH
Living in an instant-gratification world means expectations rise. So what does that mean for the beauty and wellness industry? The demand has shifted due to fast-paced schedules, and the convenience of in-home beauty, aesthetic, and healthcare services is vastly appealing. Did you know there are many more services that will come to the comfort of your own home, including massage therapy, nail technicians, personal styling, makeup artistry, spray tanning, and even primary and urgent care services?
Between the balance of children’s appointments and extracurricular activities—let alone parents juggling their own schedules—the convenience of in-home services has quite the allure. Some parents are also balancing the care of aging loved ones. At times, this may cause overwhelm, and the idea of pampering or receiving essential care without having to leave home for another errand sounds quite magical. It appears the beauty and wellness industries recognize this and are stepping up to meet those needs, creating a truly seamless and luxurious experience.
Experience the convenience of at-home beauty services—makeup, facials, massages, and more—bringing self-care, relaxation, and glamour straight to your doorstep. It’s beauty on your terms.
Beyond beauty and relaxation, in-home services are expanding into wellness and healthcare, providing convenience without compromising quality. Busy professionals, new mothers, and individuals with mobility concerns can now access a range of treatments in the comfort of their own space. This shift signifies more than luxury—it’s about accessibility, self-care, and time efficiency, all tailored to modern lifestyles. I'll leave you with this: consider the impact an at-home service that helps you feel better about yourself would have. Experts agree that self-care is an essential given all the stresses of modern life, and it turns out that professionals are ready to help--you can start with the list we've compiled. So take the time for a little self-care and make it easy on yourself.
Where to Find In-Home Beauty and Wellness Services
Are you looking for professionals who bring services to your doorstep? We've compiled a list of local resources that are standout options:
• 614 Beauty – Makeup application and hair styling 614-400-9604
• Ramo Salon – Spray tanningramosalon.com
• House Call Aesthetics – Aesthetic serviceshousecallaesthetics.com
• Just Relax Mobile Massage – Massage therapy 614-568-7979
• Nail Atelier Ohio – Nail care services 419-688-1241
• Personal Styling – Personalized wardrobe stylingsurrealstylewithcourtney.com
• Mobile Med – Primary and urgent care servicesmobilemed614.com
With experts catering to your needs, self-care has never been easier. Whether it's beauty, wellness, or healthcare, these services ensure quality care and convenience at your doorstep. Schedule the service that you now have time for!
ARTICLE BY SARAH ROSE
Frolicking Through The Local Flowers
May marks the start of Ohio flower season! So, here’s three flower farms to check out that are family-owned, community-focused, and rooted in sustainable farming practices.
SUNNY MEADOWS FLOWER FARM
Flourishing since 2006, this farm sells colorful cut flowers from: their on-site flower stand, local florists like Flowerama, and online with the offer of home delivery. They also host workshops for others looking to start floral businesses.
DARBY CREEK FIELDS AND FLOWERS
The Darbys offer over 1000 varieties of Daylilies and Hosta plants on their farm. They seek to keep alive the legacies of the farmers that came before them, so they sell their bare-root crops for others to enjoy.
ALTON FARMSTEAD
This flower farm focuses on all-inclusive, affordable, and breathtaking weddings. They also invite locals to “BYOB Wednesdays” during growing season where you can build your own bouquet, sip your own beverage, and enjoy local food trucks and vendors.
Three central Ohio flower farms to visit and support this summer
AT HOME GARDEN TIPS
ARTICLE BY ASHLEY LABAKI
PHOTOGRAPHY BY STOCK
PHOTOS
FOUR BEGINNER-FRIENDLY FOODS TO GROW AT HOME
Concerns about food contamination from pesticides have many people considering home gardening. While starting a home garden may seem daunting, there are a variety of easy-to-grow fruits, vegetables, and herbs that require minimal maintenance. These options ensure your family has access to nutritious meals all year long—and the best part is, it’s a fun and easy activity that kids can enjoy too!
Whether you have a lot of space or a little space to work with, these four fantastic florae can be grown in a spacious garden, on an apartment balcony, or inside on your countertop. Don’t worry - no green are thumbs required!
STRAWBERRIES
GREEN ONIONS
Green onions this is an easy beginner plant to grow on your countertop any time of year. Save the root end of your green onions and place them in a clear container of clean, room-temperature water. Submerge the roots but keep the tops above the water line. Place in a sunny spot and change the water every few days. As they grow, trim as needed!
Strawberries can be planted in pots or the ground in late spring following the last frost. Be sure to choose a location that will receive six to eight hours of sunlight each day. Because strawberries prefer well-drained soil, consider planting them in a raised bed with plenty of room. Be sure to water and fertilize regularly, and prepare for fresh, juicy berries at home!
02
03
POTATOES
BASIL
Basil is an easy indoor or outdoor plant that will thrive with at least six hours of sun each day. Place seeds in a container and cover with ¼-inch of soil, keeping the soil moist until seeds germinate. Move to six inches apart once leaves develop, and be sure to water regularly. You can remove leaves for cooking once the plant is six inches tall.
Potatoes are a low maintenance choice to grow at home in the ground or large pots of high-quality potting mix. Cut your potato into chunks with at least two growth points. Dry them and plant in a sunny location about six inches deep and one foot apart. Keep the soil consistently moist and fertilize as needed, and voila – you’ll soon be harvesting fresh potatoes.
04
MAY 4TH
May
the
Fourth Be With You
Worthington Park Library | 3:00 PM
Grab your lightstaber and feel the force – it’s Star Wars Day! This event is free for the whole family, and costumes are encouraged. Star Warsthemed games, crafts, and a scavenger hunt will make for a fun-filled day, whether you’re a Jedi or a Sith. Which side will you choose?
MAY 10TH
Green on the Green
Village green | 9:00 AM
The sun is shining and it’s time to head outside for Worthington’s sustainability festival. Bring the family to Village Green to see interactive exhibits, try some hands-on activities, and learn about how you can live a greener lifestyle and help the environment.
MAY 10TH
Mother Daughter Princess Tea Party
7227 North High Street | 11:30 AM
Can you think of a better way to celebrate Mother’s Day? Paulette’s Princess Parties is hosting a delightful tea party for moms – or grandmas – and their favorite little princesses. Don’t forget your tiaras and your prettiest party dress to make the most of this enchanted afternoon! Tickets $79 at paulettesprincessparties.com
Experience Matters Now More than Ever.
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CB Full Circle Team | Coldwell Banker Realty Cell: 614-738-7559 | Office: 614-451-0808 www.therealt614.com | V @theresamesaros | B therealt614
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A space created just for her — elegant, personal, and thoughtfully designed. This custom dressing vanity is part of a larger primary suite remodel that brings comfort and beauty to the everyday. From tailored cabinetry to statement lighting, every detail was made to make life a little simpler and a lot more enjoyable.
