Issuu

Letter From the Publisher

If we’re being honest, most of us have spent a lot of time waiting for the “right” moment to step forward. We wait for the perfect time to finally get a handle on our investments, to prioritize our own health, or to chase that creative spark we’ve been putting off. But if there is one thing I’ve noticed about the women in our community lately, it’s that the waiting game is shifting into a season of action. We aren’t looking for a green light anymore, we’re simply deciding that our goals deserve a seat at the table.

Welcome to our annual Women’s Issue.

This month, we wanted to move past the usual scenery to focus purely on the women who are gracefully navigating the driver’s seat of their own lives. When I sat down to curate this issue, I wanted to get into the substance of what it actually looks like to lead with intention today. Whether it’s taking command of a financial future, mastering a specialized craft, or deciding that “wellness” should be a personalized journey rather than a chore, there is so much thoughtful purpose in every page of this edition.

What I love most about the stories in this issue is the sense of quiet confidence. We’re highlighting professionals who have leaned into their expertise and discovered the power of a clear vision. They are setting a new bar for leadership, not by being the loudest in the room, but by being the most intentional.

This issue is a reminder that you are the primary strategist of your own life. It’s about the permission to own your space, protect your time, and invest in your own growth with the same heart you give to everyone else.

Ladies, I hope these stories inspire you to look at your “to-do” list not as a burden, but as a path you’re choosing to walk. You’ve already earned your place, now, I hope you take a moment to truly enjoy it.

With love,

HAILEE SAGE, PUBLISHER

@SANDUSKYBAYCITYLIFESTYLE

May 2026

PUBLISHER

Hailee Sage | Hailee.Sage@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Sam Sage | sam.sage@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Hailee Sage

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Sharareh’s Photography

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich

LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

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

Proverbs 3:5-6

We provide advanced, professional dental treatment plans paired with state-of-the-art amenities that prioritize your health while ensuring comfort every step of the way.

“Dr. Stefano and her team embody excellence in dentistry. They are skilled, knowledgeable and dedicated to providing exceptional care while ensuring every patient’s comfort is a priority. A true standard of distinction in their field.”

city scene

1 – 3: The 5th Annual MBET Black Business Pioneers Event award winners. 4: Annual national JROTC Championship hosted by Camp Perry held at Kalahari. 5 – 7: Moments from the Forever I Do Bridal Show by Rock & Roll Express at Kalahari.

SHARAREH’S PHOTOGRAPHY

JULIE HOLMES

SHARAREH’S PHOTOGRAPHY

JULIE HOLMES

SHARAREH’S PHOTOGRAPHY

JULIE HOLMES

8 – 10: Mother’s Day Mini Sessions with Sharareh’s Photography

national JROTC Championship hosted by Camp Perry held at Kalahari.

Photography by Sharareh’s Photography

Mary Giles knows the heart of our local region is driven by strong, confident decision-makers. This May, she celebrates the individuals and families taking the next step—guiding buyers, sellers, and investors to make strategic moves, build wealth, and secure their place at the table. Wishing everyone a Happy Mother’s Day and taking a moment to appreciate those who make a house feel like home.

business monthly

Honors for Mom at Barnes Nursery

Mother’s Day is our most cherished weekend at Barnes Nursery—a time to celebrate the women who help our community bloom. As Ohio’s frost-free weather arrives in mid-May, it’s the perfect moment to gift Mom a stunning hanging basket or a vibrant annual planter. Whether she’s an avid gardener or simply loves a splash of color, let’s honor her with a gift that grows. Happy Mother’s Day to all our local moms!

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The Beauty of Soft Design

Beautiful rooms often begin with texture. Many homeowners, especially women shaping the feel of their homes, are drawn to the softness and warmth that fabric brings. At Budget Blinds of Amherst, Sandusky, & Wellington, our design consultants bring curated drapery fabrics and soft treatment samples directly to your home. By touching fabrics and seeing them in your own light, it becomes easier to create window treatments that feel layered, personal, and truly at home.

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A Vision for North Bay

Sandusky native Mary Giles, with North Bay Realty, has been a driving force in Northeast Ohio real estate since 2020. Having helped hundreds of families and investors, she is known for her relentless work ethic and sharp negotiating skills. An award-winning professional, Mary balances business success with deep philanthropic commitment. Dedicated to family and community values, she continues to empower homeowners and investors alike, making a lasting impact on the local communities she proudly serves.

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Empowering Women Through Compassionate Care

Women are often the heartbeat of the family, naturally stepping into the role of caregiver. ACC Adult Home Care is dedicated to supporting these dedicated women by providing professional, personalized in-home services for their loved ones. By offering peace of mind across Erie, Ottawa counties, we empower daughters and wives to reclaim their time and focus on their own well-being. This Women’s Issue, let us carry the load so you can simply be family again.

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Elevating Every Stage

At Simply Vitality, our mission is deeply personal: we believe every woman deserves to experience peak vitality. Our holistic approach is tailored to the modern woman, blending Megan’s expertise in elevated health strategies with Jenn’s mastery of age management. Together, we ensure you feel vibrant at every stage of life. This May, prioritize your well-being with sophisticated care designed to help you thrive, age gracefully, and live a life of refined wellness.

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Empowering Women’s Futures with Will Perry

Women often serve as the “chief healthcare officers” of their families, yet their own long-term wellness is equally vital. Will Perry at Ace Insurance specializes in navigating the complexities of Medicare with a focus on the unique needs of women. From bone health screenings to long-term security, Will provides the personalized guidance necessary to protect your health and independence. This May, let Will help you secure a future defined by confidence and peace of mind.

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ARTICLE BY HAILEE SAGE PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHARAREH’S PHOTOGRAPHY

Of Wild by Nature

The Living Art

In the heart of Sandusky, where the lake breeze meets the Bay, Carla Roesch is doing more than just arranging bouquets, she is cultivating memories. As the owner of Wild by Nature Design, Carla brings over 16 years of high-level floral expertise to the table, specializing in wedding designs that capture the unique essence of every bride she serves.

A Legacy of Expertise Carla’s journey in the floral industry is rooted in a deep understanding of color, texture, and the delicate language of flowers. Since founding Wild by Nature in 2023, her mission has been to provide a premier

boutique experience for our region. While she is a master of corporate events and local workshops, her true passion is found in the high-stakes, high-emotion world of weddings. For Carla, success isn’t just a beautiful centerpiece; it is the moment a bride sees her bouquet and realizes her vision has been perfectly translated into a living work of art.

Bringing the Vision to Life The consultation process at Wild by Nature is where the magic begins. Carla has an uncanny ability to listen to a bride’s dreams, often a mix of Pinterest boards and heartfelt descriptions, and distill them into a cohesive floral plan. From the romantic softness of ranunculus to the architectural elegance of local greenery, Carla sources the finest blooms to ensure every ceremony feels organic, sophisticated, and “Wild by Nature.”

The Modern Twist While her heart beats for the fragrance and feel of fresh stems, Carla offers a sophisticated “hidden gem” for the modern bride: an incredible proficiency in high-end, “Real Touch” artificial

designs. For those looking to preserve their bridal bouquet as a permanent heirloom, or for specific installations where nature needs a little help with durability, Carla’s silk work is virtually indistinguishable from the real thing. It is this versatility, the ability to blend timeless freshflower artistry with modern, everlasting options, that makes her a favorite among Sandusky’s most discerning brides.

In the hands of Carla Roesch, your wedding day becomes a sensory masterpiece, rooted in experience and blooming with possibility.

Sharareh's Photography

“AS THE OWNER OF WILD BY NATURE DESIGN, CARLA ROESCH’S BRINGS OVER 16 YEARS OF HIGH-LEVEL FLORAL EXPERTISE TO THE TABLE, SPECIALIZING IN WEDDING DESIGNS THAT CAPTURE THE UNIQUE ESSENCE OF EVERY BRIDE SHE SERVES.”

Sharareh's Photography

TRANSFORMING YOUR HOUSE INTO A

ARTICLE BY KALI KASORZYK

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

BECKY HILLYARD

From Side Hustle to Style Empire

The power of taste, trust, and the courage to “just start.”

She didn’t have a business plan, a media budget, or even a name anyone could pronounce. What Becky Hillyard had was taste, a young family, and the instinct to just start. Today, her lifestyle brand Cella Jane commands an audience the size of Vogue’s , she’s nine collections strong with Splendid, and she’s built it all while raising three kids — refusing to sacrifice one for the other. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Becky shares what it really takes to build a brand, a career, and a life you love. Read the highlights below, then scan the QR code for the full conversation.

Q: WHEN DID YOU KNOW CELLA JANE WAS MORE THAN A HOBBY?

A: Two moments. Women started emailing me saying they bought something I recommended and felt amazing — asking me to help them find a dress for a wedding. That felt incredible. Then I looked at my affiliate numbers for one month and realized I could cover our mortgage. I thought, I can actually do this. I never set out to build a business. I started it because I genuinely loved it.

Becky in Splendid x @CellaJaneBlog Spring 2026 Collection

Q: WHAT WAS THE BIGGEST RISK YOU EVER TOOK WITH THE BRAND?

A: Designing my own collection. It’s easy to point at items on a website and say I love these. But to create something from scratch, put your name on it, and wait to see if people connect with it — that’s terrifying. I had an incredible partner in Splendid, and women loved the pieces. It was the biggest risk and the biggest accomplishment.

Q: HOW HAS INFLUENCER MARKETING CHANGED SINCE YOU STARTED?

A: When I started, brands didn’t know whether to take it seriously. Now it’s a legitimate line item in their marketing budgets — sometimes bigger than TV. Because what we’ve built is trust. People trust a real recommendation from someone they follow far more than a commercial. There’s no question about it now.

Q: YOU’RE A MOM OF THREE RUNNING A FULL BRAND. WHAT DOES YOUR DAY ACTUALLY LOOK LIKE?

A: I try to get up at five and not hit snooze — that first hour before the house wakes up is the most productive, most peaceful hour of my day. Then it’s all hands on deck with the kids and school drop-off. After that I work — planning content, connecting with my team, editing. After pickup, the day shifts completely and it’s all about them. I’ve learned to protect both halves fiercely, because both matter.

Q: WHAT WOULD YOU TELL SOMEONE WHO WANTS TO BUILD SOMETHING OF THEIR OWN BUT KEEPS WAITING?

A: Don’t wait. Don’t wait for the perfect camera, the right strategy, or enough followers. We find every excuse to stay comfortable. Just start, be consistent, and be authentically yourself. The right people will find you — and they’ll stay.

This conversation is just the beginning. Becky goes deeper on the risks that almost stopped her, the design process behind her latest Splendid collection, and what she’d tell her 2012 self today. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on the Share the Lifestyle podcast.

“Trust is the only metric that actually compounds.”

— Becky Hillyard

FEATURING BECKY HILLYARD

WHY EVERY WOMAN DESERVES TO OWN HER FINANCIAL LIFE

ARTICLE BY BY TESSA STEINERMAN, CFP®, CDFA® | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHARAREH’S PHOTOGRAPHY

YOUR FUTURE: YOUR MONEY,

She’s sharp. She’s successful. She runs a team, raises a family, and manages more in a single week than most tackle in a month. But ask her what’s in her investment portfolio, or why her money is allocated the way it is, and she’ll pause.

That pause isn’t a failure. It’s a sign that somewhere along the way, women were quietly handed a message: someone else will handle the money. Many of us were simply too busy building careers and raising children to question it. Here is the truth: financial knowledge is not a luxury. It is one of the most powerful and liberating tools a woman can possess.

THE STORY I HEAR OVER AND OVER

In my work as a financial advisor, I sit across from brilliant women every day. Time and again, I hear: “I just let my husband handle it. I didn’t really want to know.”

However, being in the dark creates vulnerability, not just financially, but emotionally.

Women who are suddenly navigating finances alone due to loss or choice often feel that they are being handed the controls of a plane mid-flight. It doesn’t have to feel that way.

WHAT FINANCIAL FREEDOM REALLY LOOKS LIKE

When I ask women what they want from their money, the answer is rarely “to beat the market.” It is: I want to stop worrying. I want to say yes to things that matter. I want financial freedom.

To accomplish this, it starts with a clear picture of what you have and how it connects to the life you want to build. When a woman understands her finances, she stops reacting to life and starts choosing how she wants to live it.

YOU DESERVE TO BE IN THE ROOM

Many women tell me that previous male advisors only spoke to their husbands. That is not partnership, and it is not what you deserve.

A great advisor listens to your goals, the life behind the numbers, and explains things clearly. You should leave every meeting feeling more confident, not more confused. If you don’t, it may be time to find an approach that actually serves you.

FOUR THINGS EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW

You should be able to answer these four questions:

1. What do I have, and where is it? Know your accounts, how to access them, and who your beneficiaries are.

2. What am I working toward, and how is my money invested to support that? Your investment strategy should reflect your ideal life, specific goals, and comfort with risk. Without defined goals, progress can feel real even when it is not.

3. Am I protecting what I’ve built? Estate documents and insurance are acts of love and self-respect.

4. Do I trust my advisor? Do they make you feel informed or overwhelmed? Trust is non-negotiable.

IT STARTED WITH BABYSITTING MONEY

My path into this work started early. My dad had me investing my babysitting money at 10 years old. That early education in personal finance led me to start my career at JPMorgan, earn my MBA at The Ohio State University, and become a Certified Financial Planner® professional and Certified Divorce Financial Analyst®. Now, I have built my own business within True Alpha Wealth Management with a strong focus on education for female investors.

Over the last decade, I’ve worked at institutions where my voice was routinely minimized. I know what it feels like to be competent and well educated, yet made to feel like you don’t belong at the table. I refuse to let the women I work with feel that way about their own financial lives.

AN INVITATION

Whether you have always managed your finances or have been handing that responsibility off for years, this is your invitation. You don’t have to have it all figured out; you just have to be willing to start. Ask the questions. Open the statement. Sit in the seat that was always meant to be yours.

When women understand their money, they don’t just protect themselves, they expand what’s possible for their families and their future. Your financial life is too important to sit on the sidelines. You’ve earned your seat at the table. It’s time to take it.

SEAT AT THE STATION:

In this special Women’s Issue, we step inside the firehouse to meet four women who have defined their lives through service. They are more than first responders; they are strategists, survivors, and mentors who have claimed their seats at a table once reserved for others. Their stories prove the fire service isn’t just a career—it’s a calling that requires a resilient heart and the courage to show up for the community on its worst days.

ASHLEY HOWELLS: A HERITAGE OF SERVICE

Sandusky Fire Department | 5 Years

For Ashley Howells, the wail of a siren was the soundtrack of her home. As a third-generation firefighter, following her father and grandfather, Ashley’s introduction to the service happened long before she wore a uniform.

“Some of my earliest memories are going on calls with my dad—back when that was part of the culture,” Ashley shares. “I remember handing out water bottles and shagging hose as crews pushed inside. It never felt foreign; it felt like home.” Growing up in the department gave Ashley a perspective most outsiders never see. She witnessed the heroics, but also the reality of sacrifice. She watched her father save lives, but also stood by as he processed the weight of loss.

This exposure forged a deep understanding of responsibility. For Ashley, it wasn’t a question of if she would pursue this path; it always felt like a calling. Now five years into her tenure at the Sandusky Fire Department, she views her role through the lens of family. “Being a female firefighter means being part of a crew—earning your place and being adopted into a family with a common mission,” she says. Her mantra remains simple: “How you do one thing is how you do everything—so give 100% effort, always.”

“IN THE FIRE SERVICE, THERE IS A COMMON TRUTH: FIRE DOESN’T KNOW GENDER.”

GIA GENNARI: FROM PATIENT TO PROVIDER

Huron Fire Department | 28 Years

Gia Gennari’s journey began from a stretcher. Transported by Life Flight at age seven, and again at ten, she was fascinated rather than terrified. She watched the pilots and nurses with wonder, knowing even then she wanted to be part of that life-saving world.

That resolve was cemented at sixteen when she was inside a home struck by a tornado. Watching emergency crews navigate the chaos was a turning point. “Being in a male-dominated field wasn’t new to me,” Gia notes, having grown up with four older brothers. “The department became my family, and the firefighters became my brothers.”

Over her 28-year career, Gia has never stopped pushing boundaries. She earned her flight paramedic certification and spent 11 years with University Hospitals Medevac, returning to the skies that inspired her as a child. Today, she is focused on the next generation. “I had great mentors, and I want to be that for young girls wanting to join,” she says. Despite nearly three decades on the job, the spark remains: “I still feel the rush. I still love the job.”

TARA TORRES: THE COURAGE TO PIVOT Perkins Township Fire | 5 Years

Tara Torres is proof that it is never too late to redefine your future. Stepping into fire school in her early 30s, she felt intimidated as a woman older than most of her peers. But she pushed through, starting as a volunteer where she found an unexpected sense of belonging.

“Those departments pushed me to grow and believe in myself,” Tara recalls. Her career was gaining momentum when she hit a wall: a severe training injury. For many, a setback involving surgery and eight months of recovery would be the end. “It was devastating, both physically and mentally,” she says. “But I didn’t quit.”

Through recovery, Tara discovered the true depth of the firehouse family. Perkins Township Fire stood beside her until she could return to duty—stronger than ever. “Perkins isn’t just a department; it’s home,” Tara says. Her journey reminds every woman that there are no shortcuts—only the resilience to keep going when stopping would be easier.

AMBER GARDNER: A PROMISE KEPT

Port Clinton Fire and Rescue | 5.5 Years

Amber Gardner’s path began with a battle for her own life. After surviving cancer, Amber made a promise: if given a second chance, she would spend it serving others. “Becoming a firefighter is how I live out that promise,” Amber says. “It allows me to show up for people on their worst days.”

For Amber, the job is about proving strength isn’t a gendered trait—it’s a matter of heart. When she joined, she found more than a career; she found a family. “These are the people who have my back, and whom I trust with my life,” she explains. Beyond the calls, Amber feels a responsibility to the girls watching from the sidelines. She wants them to realize they belong here, too. “It’s a calling, a purpose, and a commitment to serve.”

PRIVATE LESSONS SOFTBALL

HAILEE SAGE

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

MAY 9TH

Opening Day at Cedar Point

Cedar Point® | 10:00 AM

Cedar Point® kicks off its 157th summer season on Saturday, May 9! Experience the unofficial start of summer with world-class thrills like Siren’s Curse®, Steel Vengeance®, and the record-breaking Top Thrill 2™. From family fun in Kiddy Kingdom to iconic fresh-cut fries and the mile-long Cedar Point Beach, the ultimate lakeside adventure awaits. It’s time to ride!

MAY 14TH

Elora Counseling Shine Brighter Series: Medicaid Myths

Work Space Sandusky | 11:30 AM

Join Elora Counseling for the latest installment of the “Shine Brighter” series, featuring guest speaker Attorney Pamela Spargo. This educational session aims to demystify the complexities of Medicaid, providing clarity and peace of mind for families navigating long-term care. Enjoy a complimentary lunch provided by Kingston of Vermilion while gaining expert legal insights. Call 419-357-5483 to RSVP.

MAY 21ST

The 2026 45th Walleye Festival

Downtown Port Clinton | 5:00 PM

Enjoy one of Ohio’s premier outdoor weekend celebrations with free live concert, kids fishing derby, grande parade, carnival rides, and more than 130 vendors from around the nation. The 2026 45th Annual David W. Leonard Fraternal Order of Eagles #2295 Walleye Festival will take place place May 21st - 25th in Downtown Port Clinton.

MAY 21ST

CONTINUED

3rd Thursday:

Music, Flowers & A Sunset

Downtown Vermilion | 6:00 PM

Experience summer in downtown Vermilion with the Chamber of Commerce’s free concert series. From May 21 through September 17, enjoy evenings of live music, local shopping, and dining starting at 6:00 PM. It’s the perfect way to support local businesses while soaking up a Lake Erie sunset with family and friends. Make it a night in Vermilion.

MAY 23RD

Cedar Point Shores

Opening Day

Cedar Point Shores Waterpark | 11:00 AM

Make a splash on Saturday, May 23rd, as Cedar Point Shores Waterpark opens! Experience the new Crosscurrent dual waterslides, the heart-pounding Point Plummet, or race friends on Riptide Raceway. Prefer to chill? Relax in Breakwater Bay or float down the Cedar Creek lazy river. With 18 acres of soaking wet fun, it’s the ultimate way to stay cool.