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LOCAL WOMEN OF INFLUENCE
As we navigate through the bustling tapestry of life, it's often the women who stand as the pillars of strength, grace and inspiration. They weave the fabric of our existence with richness, humor, excitement and beauty, enriching our lives in countless ways. Whether they're our best friends, mentors, wives, mothers, sisters or daughters, their influence leaves an indelible mark on our hearts.
With Mother's Day approaching this month, our attention naturally gravitates toward celebrating mothers. Yet, let's not forget the myriad of other remarkable women who serve as maternal figures in our lives. From family members to teachers, friends to neighbors, these women enrich our communities with their kindness, wisdom and unwavering support, leaving an imprint that is both unforgettable and irreplaceable.
As advocates for local businesses, we recognize the importance of supporting women entrepreneurs within our communities. Their businesses are not just places of commerce but reflections of their passion, dedication, and entrepreneurial spirit. It's a privilege to connect with and champion these women who are the epitome of strength, resilience and creativity.
They are the movers and shakers, the builders and makers, whose contributions often go unseen yet profoundly impact those around them. Their silent acts of service and attention to detail reveal a beauty that transcends the visible, reminding us of the depth of their character and the magnitude of their love.
I urge you to take a moment amidst the busyness of life to reach out to the women who have shaped your world. Whether through a simple text, a heartfelt phone call, or a joyful video chat, let them know how much they are cherished and appreciated. In doing so, we not only brighten their day but also reaffirm the bonds of love and gratitude that unite us.
To all the remarkable women in our lives, we are endlessly inspired by your strength, your resilience, and your unwavering grace. Thank you for being the guiding lights that illuminate our paths and the beating hearts that breathe life into our communities.
With heartfelt appreciation,
GORDON AND KELLEY, PUBLISHERS
@STCHARLESCITYLIFESTYLEMAG
Publishers Photo by Empowering Portraits
PUBLISHERS
Gordon Montgomery
Kelley Lammk
gordon.montgomery@citylifestyle.com
Kelley.lamm@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Julie Brown Patton | julie.patton@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Casey Pierce | casey.pierce@citylifestyle.com
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
Kaiya Thompson | kaiya.thompson@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Mel Boban, Julie Brown Patton, Robin Seaton Jefferson, Amalia (Amy) Loli
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Mike Winslow, Carol Green, Chris Ryan, Amalia Pappas Loli, Untold Images
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein
AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall
LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
“Susan is excellent, she listens and she is very detailed. I have used her services 4 times now and I think she is the best!! I would definitely recommend her to everyone”
Our current market offers a great opportunity! Here's your pre-sale checklist for success:
1. Stage & Sparkle: Declutter, stage, and enhance curb appeal for a buyer's dream first impression.
Theresa S. - St. Peters
2. Know Your Market: Research to set a competitive asking price based on comparable properties.
3. Fix Up Fast: Address minor repairs to show buyers a well-maintained home.
4. Be Show-Ready: Have a plan to secure/remove pets and be flexible with allowing buyers to view your home.
5. Contact Susan Brewer: Partner with a trusted St. Charles County Realtor to navigate the selling process with confidence. She will assist you with numbers one through four.
Schedule your Free Consultation Today and mention City Lifestyle Magazine for $1000 off treatment
MRV Banks was ranked number three in the nation among community banks for the fourth quarter of 2023 by the risk management firm CB Resource, Inc. CB Resource identifies the top 10% of community banks nationwide and provides industry insights. MRV Banks’ newest location is at 1700 O’Fallon Road in St. Charles. “We're deeply honored to receive this recognition for the third consecutive quarter," says Doug Watson, president and CEO of MRV Banks.
Because wood flooring requires fewer chemicals to make and install, it helps promote healthier living and work environments.
The EPA found that hardwood floors improve air quality because they are less likely to harbor dangerous microorganisms, pesticides, and allergens, such as dust, mold, or pet dander.
Vinyl flooring will last only a decade or two, while quality wood flooring can last more than 100 years.
Wood floors will stand up to foot traffic and will maintain their color finish with proper maintenance. Vinyl flooring, however, will last only a decade or two and fade dramatically over time when exposed to sunlight.
Wood floors are easy to maintain and can be repaired with relative ease. But vinyl typically needs to be replaced completely if it’s damaged.
Wood is a zero waste product. For example, old wood from flooring can be turned into other products or simply bio-degrade.
Other flooring types, such as vinyl, are made from plastics or synthetic fibers that take multiple decades to break down and decompose. Recycling companies typically reject old vinyl flooring because it’s not profitable for them. And, the alternative form of disposal - burning - releases harmful phthalate chemicals into the air.
Many homeowners love the look of hardwood flooring and other features in their home. But they are also concerned about the initial expense of installing wood.
Putting wood floors into your home is truly a good investment. Real hardwood floors add to the resale value of your home. The average return on investment is 70 to 80%!
Genevieve 'Gena' Otto, D.D.S., M.S., cares about smiles.
“I love perfecting a smile and seeing that self-confidence change,” Dr. Otto says. “Growing up, I always had a passion for science and medicine as well as strong creative interests in design and aesthet ics. Orthodontics is the perfect field for me because I not only create functional, healthy bites but also beautiful smiles that help balance facial aesthetics. While I treat patients of all ages, I love that I can be a positive influence on many adolescents during a very influential time in their lives.”
Born and raised in St. Louis, Dr. Otto is con sidered to be a prominent figure in her com munity. After completing dental school at the University of Southern California and ortho dontic residency at Saint Louis University, she wanted to open her own unique practice.
Today, with office locations in Des Peres, Fenton, St. Peters and Wentzville, she collaborates closely with her asso ciates, Dr. Kirsten Karkow, Dr. Andrew Larkin and Dr. Katelyn Roland, to ensure that each patient receives personalized treatment tailored to their needs.
Otto Orthodontics is a family-run business led by Gena and her husband, A.J., who is the practice director. A mother of three daughters, Scarlett (10), Sloane (10) and Teddi (5), Gena is a role model for many young women, not only coaching her daughters’ volleyball team but offering shadowing opportunities to those interested in the dental field.
By investing her time and energy into her family and community endeavors, Gena exemplifies the importance of finding harmony between one’s professional aspirations and personal responsibilities, serving as an inspiration to both her colleagues and patients alike.
Her passion for orthodontics and her entrepreneurial spirit have led to her creating an orthodontic powerhouse. She heads an almost all-female team of 50 staff members who have helped her shape her practice into the industry-leading group that it is today. Voted St. Louis’s Top Orthodontist by St. Louis Magazine, St. Louis Post-Dispatch and Ladue News, she is a key player in the St. Louis dental community.
“A lovely smile is more than just straight teeth,” Gena says. Her attention to detail is unmatched. She employs cutting-edge techniques such as gingival tissue contouring, enamel edge refinement, Zoom whitening and even offers Botox and injectable fillers to enhance the overall appearance of her patients’ smiles.
As St. Louis’s Top Invisalign Provider, Gena can treat almost any case with Invisalign. Nearly 40% of her adult patients are Invisalign cases.
However, aligner technology is also a great option for children. Gena’s own daughter completed an initial phase of Invisalign treatment at age eight and most children are candidates for this innovative treatment option.
Otto Orthodontics provides affordable options, including interest-free payment plans, price breaks for families with multiple children in treatment and discounts for paying in full. Recognizing the importance of accessibility to quality care, the Hero Program offers discounts for single parents, teachers, first responders, military personnel and nurses, acknowledging their invaluable contributions to society. By prioritizing affordability and inclusivity, Gena ensures that her practice remains accessible to all, regardless of socioeconomic status.
Dr. Gena Otto has earned a reputation as a leading orthodontist in the region, transforming smiles and changing lives one patient at a time.
Call/Text 314.900.6886
OttoOrtho.com
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“Most published female author in the world? Agatha Christie, typically called the ‘queen of crime.’”
1. Author: Precious Simone
Title: Behind The Desk
Synopsis: Finding purpose and passion in 9-5 routines.
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2. Author: Sherri Jost
Co-Author: Tina Clarin
Title: Stronger Together/Walking Through Trauma, PTSD & Abuse
Synopsis: Exploring survival, advocacy, healing, redemption.
3. Author: Shelly Snow Pordea
Title: The Cheating Wife
Synopsis: Tackling prevalent ideologies that take courage to discuss.
4. Author: Marcy Bursac
Title: The Forgotten Adoption Option: A Self-Reflection and How-To Guide for Pursuing Foster Care Adoption
Synopsis: Adopting through foster care.
Academy Summer Camps are open for all ages! Join us for a variety of programs, from weekly themed camps for little ones to engaging activities for grades 2-4, PLUS Shakin’ It Up with Shakespeare, Showtime! Presents, and Ambush Camp! And, new for 2024: Camp Invention.
For details, visit ash1818.org /summer or the scan the QR code.
Leiber HVAC has been serving St. Charles since 1992 With a service motto “treat others as we would like to be treated” we work hard to add value to the service and installation of indoor air quality equipment.
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THESE LADIES SHARE ANSWERS TO THEIR FAVORITE ‘MOM-RELATED MEMORIES’
Lifestyle asked several lovely ladies what was their favorite memory about their mother or what is their favorite memory as a mom. They shared sentimental reminiscences. And, to our mothers who have passed on, thank you for loving and guiding us. Even though you’re no longer here with us, you’re still in our hearts. We miss you dearly.
“Motherhood is the biggest gamble in the world. It’s the glorious life force. It’s huge and scary; it’s an act of infinite optimism.”
~Gilda Radner
One of Paige’s favorite things about being a mom, she shares, is witnessing the joy her boys find in both the big and small as they experience the world. “Whether they’re catching fish or helping me bake, they bring renewed energy and enthusiasm to my life,” she says. “My mom was, and continues to be, so great at creating extraordinary memories during ordinary days. I hope I’m doing the same for my boys.”
Paige grew up with an appreciation for the outdoors and still enjoys spending free time on her family farm. Her debut children’s book, A Bad Day Fishing is available online at PaigeHulsey.com. Paige is also a storyteller on TV, reporting and anchoring on KMOV.
She says, “I released my first book late last year and now I’m hooked, pun intended. The story is about a boy, Jack, and his best friend, a puppy named Bud, who set out for a day of fishing but everything goes wrong. The pair has to persevere together to find the good throughout their bad day. I think it’s a lesson that resonates with children and adults alike.”
Writing books has been a wonderfully therapeutic creative outlet for her, she says, adding that she runs her ideas by her sons first to gauge their reaction. “They often join me for storytime at local businesses and libraries. I’m moved every time a parent or child tells me they chose my book for a bedtime story.”
Paige Hulsey KMOV Personality and Children's Book Autho
Jennifer’s mother had five children within seven years. “She was a really fun mom,” quips Jennifer. “Each one of us was allowed to play hooky from school one day each year to have a Mom Day. She made us promise not to tell our Dad. We kept that promise. When I hit 40, I told my Dad.”
Her father’s response: “Of course I knew.” Jennifer still wonders whether her mother was testing their abilities to keep a secret.
Jennifer’s passion within her radio job is to highlight nonprofits. When off-air, she says she loves cooking and working out.
Pollyanna is Jennifer’s fur kid. She adopted her from the APA when working there as director of humane education. “I saw her one morning before we opened. I already had three dogs, but my best friend was looking for a cute, white dog. I took her to my office and texted my friend: “You have 45 minutes to reply if you want her.” However, Jennifer says after 30 minutes, she was in love! “I texted my BFF, Pattie, back and stated: “Too late, she’s adopted!” Pollyanna is about to turn 10. My best friend understood!”
Some of the best memories Chelsea has with her mom are “just still moments of us in bed, just talking.” When hundreds of miles away from each other, she says those small little moments during holidays are some of her favorites.
“I love my best friend,” declares Chelsea.
When not on air, she reveals that she enjoys hiking, reading and traveling the world.
“Sometimes the strength of motherhood is greater than natural laws.” ~Barbara Kingsolver, Homeland
“Growing up, my mom would have an egg sandwich, cup of fruit (maybe a Diet Coke; ha!) and a vitamin ready to go before school. Then, she’d send me out the door with a packed lunch,” says Mary. “Every birthday, I’d wake up to my door decorated with streamers. She also was my volleyball coach. She made silly promises like ‘if we didn’t miss a serve, she’d do a cartwheel.’”
As adults, Mary says a visit with mom means waking up to yoga mats and water bottles ready, then going for a walk before heading to Mass. “When reflecting on favorite memories with my mom, I cannot help but notice how she perfectly captures Mother Teresa’s message of ‘do small things with great love.’ It wasn’t the fancy vacations, but the love she showed me in life’s little moments, which shaped me into who I am today.”
When not on air, Mary can be found with the Daughters of St. Paul, a community of vowed religious women who dedicate their lives to sharing God’s love through the media.
“Mothers remind us it’s not about the size of the obstacles we face, but rather the size of our courage and determination to overcome them.”
One of Julie’s favorite memories with her mom is when they went to Hawaii together. She recalls, “It was probably about 20 years ago. She’s a scientist, so she had a science convention to go to, and I got to tag along! It was so much fun going to a luau with her and relaxing in the ocean.”
Julie says she fell in love with Hawaii so much from that special trip, she ended up going back to The Aloha State to get married there to her true love in February.
When not working, Julie’s loving on four-legged kids.
“One of my passion projects is helping rescue dogs,” adds Julie, who serves on the board of directors at Stray Rescue and CARE STL. “I love getting the message out about rescue dogs and how amazing they are as pets. Also, I love adopting senior dogs. I’ve adopted 14 dogs (not all at once). I have two dogs right now: Bill Burr from Stray Rescue and Mason from the Humane Society.”
“Motherhood is tough. If you just want a wonderful little creature to love, you can get a puppy.” ~Barbara Walters
Sharing that she’s always wanted to be a mom, Laura was very close to her grandma. “I talk to my mom sometimes up to four times a day. There are so many vivid memories I have with these women: shopping together, laughing on holidays, crying through hard times and enjoying afternoon ‘tea time’ at my grandma’s house.”
She says these special relationships guided so much of her life. “I prayed God would bless my husband, Mark, and me with our own children. We welcomed our son, Leo, in December of 2022 and we’ll soon welcome our second child. I already have so many memories I cherish with Leo, like seeing his first smile, hearing him laugh for the first time and clapping when he took his first steps. I know I’m going to love seeing him as a big brother.”
Laura joined the board of directors for the Saint Louis Crisis Nursery and The Little Bit Foundation. “I also love running, which is why in 2018, I started Laura’s Run 4 Kids benefiting The Little Bit Foundation,” she says. “In the seven years since, we have raised over $500,000 together. All that money stays in our area, helping students break down barriers to learning in the Saint Louis Public Schools, Riverview Gardens District, Jennings School District and several other schools.”
Laura’s Run 4 Kids is an annual tradition for hundreds of families, businesses and others across the community. Combining a competitive 5K Race with a 1-mile family Fun Run/Walk, the event draws St. Louisans of every age. This year’s run was held on April 20 at Tower Grove Park.
An afternoon spent together is priceless with today's busy schedules. Instead of going out, staying in can provide quaint, quiet one-on-one time for a mother and daughter (or multiple daughters). Finding time on calendars is the hard part, and filling that time is all fun from there. Here are a few favorite ideas for inspiration that may spark excitement for planning those special times together.
Printed photos are often stored in boxes or tubs with little organization. Perhaps you have photos of your own, or even a grandparent who has passed, that need an organization overhaul. While these projects can be daunting, 'many hands make light work.' Group the photos by decade and file them in order. Consider purchasing a photo scanner to digitize the files for future generations. Photo organization always brings storytelling, laughter and warm memories.
Custom DIY charm necklaces and bracelets are trending. Gather a theme idea: birthstones, family
initials, travels or even favorite hobbies, and procure charms from your local craft store or online shop. Selecting charms for each other also could be a fun way to bring delight to the crafting occasion. Necklaces and bracelets can be made for each other, or as future gifts for upcoming occasions such as a family wedding, a birthday milestone or an anniversary.
Text conversations around kitchen tips or ingredient procurement seem endless. Spend some time together in the kitchen preparing favorite family recipes, sharing Mom's best tips and tricks. Choosing freezer-friendly meals is a great way to walk away with meals for upcoming busy days. There's nothing like Mom's recipes!
Storytelling makes for the best memories. Structure memory recall by filming or journaling interview-style question-and-answer sessions, cataloging information for future generations. Videos and notes with detailed family adventures are priceless, and we all always wish we had more of them.
ABOUT MEL:: Mel has lived in St. Louis for 13 years, and loves staying in, just as much as exploring local. When she’s not in St. Louis, she’s traveling the world, road tripping with her dog or visiting friends and family in the Chicagoland area.
Female entrepreneurs defy conventions, overcome obstacles and reshape the business world through integrity, constant learning, resilience and perseverance. Lifestyle asked these women what motivates them.
FEMALE ENTREPRENEURS BELIEVE CUSTOMERS ARE MOST IMPORTANT ASSET
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MIKE WINSLOW
Promotions Pronto LLC is a woman-owned, family-operated business started in February 2005. “We have an outstanding dedicated account base. There’s no order too small or too large,” Stacee vows. “Every customer is a contributor to our growth. We live and breathe this reality every day and rely heavily on referrals.”
She says she and her staff are knowledgeable, reliable, detail-oriented and determined to never miss an event date.
“I’m a people pleaser, so I thrive on doing everything to make my customers happy and to promote their business objectives. Returning customers, as well as referrals, motivate me because that means we’ve done a good job and people like us,” admits Stacee.
In addition to traditional promotional and apparel products, she says they also handle awards, golf accessories, holiday cards, table throws and business cards, basically all products that benefit name recognition, promotions, campaigns, employee/customer appreciation event
One of the biggest motivations for Stacee and her team is coming up with perfect items that leave lasting impressions on clients’ behalves.
What Stacee would share with young women who have entrepreneurial mindsets is there is no “secret” to starting and growing a successful business. “Show up with a positive mindset and work as hard as you can every single day. Even after almost 20 years of owning my own business, I still go to the office every morning and do the same networking, prospecting and relationship building as I did when I started.”
Based on 20-plus years of marketing and media production experience, Sarah assists clients with establishing and expanding brands. In addition to Top Notch, she founded two other creative marketing agencies: Rhino Hyde Productions and Semi Gloss Marketing.
The main motivation for Sarah each day, she explains, is to uplift people. “I believe God made each person with a purpose, including unique gifts, talents and relationships to steward. My ultimate desire is to connect people with solutions that lead to real breakthroughs in their lives. I love seeing people win!”
Sarah’s also a recognized international speaker and executive director of The Rooted Sisters, a Christian business women’s network across the United States. “We believe in finding the good in the world and shining a light on it,” she explains. “Our mission is to encourage, improve and inspire by creating and spotlighting brands that are making the world better.”
Sarah states she was a swimmer and that her grandpa told her not to look at the lanes beside her, because it would only slow her down. “This is a metaphor for life and especially for entrepreneurial-minded women, as well: When we compare ourselves to others, we get off-course from our own path. And truly, sister, you don’t need to do that. The world needs your gift. You bring something no one else brings to the world. Just focus on your calling and your goals, and you’ll find a lot more joy and momentum.”
As a self-professed spreader of joy and creator of dreams, Liz heads this certified, woman-owned innovation group who have specialized in live event production, theatrical design, custom scenic solutions and equipment sales for 35-plus years.
“We stand on our integrity, are passionate about changing lives we touch and are about creating relationships for life,” she proclaims.
“Dreaming up unique experiences wakes me up at night still! Watching clients fall in love with those concepts and seeing the looks on their faces when we bring them to life is pure joy.”
Her team produces custom, once-in-a-lifetime experiences for high-end wedding planners, corporate businesses, nonprofit organizations, houses of worship and theatres of all sizes. She says her team is the talent behind the technology making special events happen. “We consider ourselves fortunate to inspire lives, one audience at a time,” she shares.
Regarding young women wishing to pursue their dreams, Liz recommends they speak to themselves in encouraging, beautiful ways. “Chip away at your insecurities through tiny decisions, one at a time, and hold yourself accountable for a life of impeccable integrity. The world’s waiting for your unique story to unfold, and that journey will be another woman’s roadmap to success, if you’re courageous enough to share it.”
“Also, give yourself permission to hire the best coach for your particular mindset. It’s the best money you’ll ever spend,” she adds.
TechnicalProductions.com
AMALIA CULINARY
ART’S RECIPE: LEMON OLIVE OIL CAKE ARTICLE BY AMALIA (AMY) PAPPAS LOLI PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMALIA PAPPAS LOLIOlive oil and lemons: Who would have thought this combination belongs in a cake?
High-quality extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) has a silky texture and adds a subtle grassy flavor to baked goods. Adding freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest balances the olive oil’s richness in this simple yet elegant cake. These two ingredients have been best friends forever! This simple cake is bright and delicious, but complete when topped with macerated berries.
Ingredients
• 1 ¾ cups flour
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• 1 ¼ cups plus 2 tablespoons sugar
• 3 teaspoons lemon zest
• ¾ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 cup milk (room temperature)
• 3 eggs (room temperature)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• ¼ cup powdered sugar for dusting
Macerated berries: (optional)
• 1 cup mixed berries (blackberries, strawberries, raspberries)
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Directions
1. Preheat oven to 350F. Grease pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, eggs and sugar.
3. Add the vanilla, lemon zest and lemon juice. Whisk briefly to combine.
4. Sift together the salt, baking powder, baking soda and flour. Alternating with the milk, add dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in a couple of batches. Try not to over-mix at this stage; just combine everything until no clumps of dry flour remain.
5.Pour batter evenly into the pan.
6. Bake for 50-55 minutes. The cake should rise and start to turn a bit golden brown on the top.
7. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for about 10 minutes in the pan. Then gently remove the cake from the pan and let it cool completely on a baking rack.
8. When cool, dust the top with powdered sugar, if desired.
• Grease pan well.
• Don’t skimp on the lemon zest.
• Don’t over-mix batter once flour is added.
• Use high-quality EVOO for this cake. It will help intensify the flavor of the cake so the olive oil is noticeable, but not too overpowering.
• Allow the cake to cool partially in the pan before attempting to release it.
• Use the right pan: A 6-cup bundt pan has the same volume as a 9x1½- or 8x2-inch round pan.
What did the queen of Ice Cream do before making the best ice cream in the country right here in St. Louis? She had a corporate career for 25 years in marketing, brand and strategy and ended up running a $70 million business, in the food industry.
Now just eight years later, she has over 200 employees, and she’s gone from making ice cream in her kitchen to a plan to go regional this year and eventually national. “We just built a new manufacturing facility in North City to support growth to 50 parlors, and are going to do our first capital raise this year to support expansion and growth,” says Tamara Keefe, founder/owner, Clementine’s Naughty & Nice Creamery. “Exciting times. Sometimes, following your dreams does work.”
Making the creamy dream is not new to Tamara. “I have been making ice cream my whole life,” she says. “When I was a child, ice cream entirely changed my sense of community. We grew up poor. After church on Sundays, the other families would meet at the local ice cream parlor. I remember tugging on my mom’s dress, begging her for us to join them for ice cream, not knowing the financial burden a trip to the ice cream parlor would cause our family of nine.”
As fate would have it, Tamara’s mom purchased an old hand-crank ice cream maker for $2 at a garage sale. “That was the day my life changed forever.”
After that, Tamara’s house became the destination for the “Sunday Ice-cream Social.”
“When other families in our church heard we were making ice cream, they started asking to come to our house to make it, too. “We couldn't afford to pay for it for everyone, so one family would bring the milk, and another family would bring the cream, etc.,” she says.
Tamara was no stranger to success either. “In 2014, I was running a $70 million business, on the road all the time, commuting back and forth from St. Louis to Columbus, successfully climbing the corporate ladder. I had my dream job, dream salary—everything I thought I ever wanted, until I didn’t,” she says. “Exhausted, unhappy, single, no kids, no family, and rarely seeing my friends, I was miserable.”
But she says her closest girlfriends rescued her when on a weekend getaway, they talked her into following her ice cream dreams. “So that weekend, we wrote my business plan, put together my financials and I resigned two weeks later.”
She started her business in her kitchen in 2014 selling ice cream to neighbors and friends. Before long, she was selling to restaurants and venues around St. Louis, then moving into a shared kitchen space and soon after opening her first shop in May of 2015 in Lafayette Square.
She says she didn't set out to create something new in the market. She set out to create something “better and innovative.”
And make something unique, she did. Clementine’s Naughty & Nice Creamery is named around the two types of ice creams
As fate would have it, Tamara’s mom purchased an old handcrank ice cream maker for $2 at a garage sale. “That was the day my life changed forever.”
they make. The “Naughty” part is boozy, and the “Nice” part is non-boozy. “We have a trade-secret process for infusing alcohol into ice cream. And our non-dairy vegan ice creams have been a game changer, especially for those who have dietary restrictions.”
The Naughty component came into play when a customer asked Tamara if she could infuse some rum into one of her flavors. She didn’t think it was possible. “He kept after me, and it was seeping into my subconscious all the time, and I started to think, ‘How can I make this happen?’ After all, I had access to the best food scientists, chemists and product development people in the world. And I was familiar with lots of new and emerging technologies in food and how people were using them in creative ways. I gathered my closest friends and over a few bottles of wine, I started connecting the dots, experimenting until we honed in on some pretty innovative stuff. Once I realized we had something, I knew it was an opportunity and a really good one in a space where there’s been little innovation since the invention of Dippin’ Dots.”
She also saw the opportunity to infuse something into the non-dairy (Vegan) market that had long been ignored. “I was the first in the Midwest to produce and formulate for the non-dairy, gluten-free market at scale. The alternatives at that time were just terrible and tasted nothing like ice cream. I was going to change that.”
Clementine’s Naughty & Nice Creamery is one of only a handful of micro-creameries in the country, and the only one in Missouri. There are qualifications for the designation. “First, it has to be small batch made in a real ice cream machine (batch freezer), not some large continuous mega-robotic machine that pumps thousands of gallons of product through in a few minutes that no one sees, or tastes, or quality checks. I like to say ours is made by
real people with love, concern and care for the quality and the taste of the product.”
Secondly, everything in her product has to be handcrafted. “If there’s a pie, cake or cookie in it, we make it, bake it and put it in it,” she says. “We salt our own caramel and candy our pecans. Or, for some flavors, we collaborate to support other local artisan makers and use their product.”
And everything has to be all-natural. “We are the only ice cream maker in the state of Missouri that is all-natural. No artificial flavors, fillers, emulsifiers, colors etc.,” Tamara says.
The ice cream also has to have less than 30 percent overrun, which is a technical term that describes the air whipped into the ice cream.
“Large commercial ice cream manufacturers and most local ice cream shops use 100% overrun, meaning that the pint you get at the store is actually only 50% ice cream; the rest is air,” Tamara says. “Ever had a cone that instantly melted? That’s a great example of 100% overrun. Big commercial brands and most ice cream shops do that to get more volume using less product. Our ice cream is made with approximately 26-28% overrun, so when you taste our pint of any flavor and compare it to another, ours is heavier and denser.”
Lastly, to be a micro creamery, one has to have more than 16% butterfat in the ice cream, which is the component in ice cream that gives it the richness in flavor, the creaminess or smooth texture, the body and the ability not to melt so fast. “It coats your tongue, makes the flavor last and gives it that great creamy mouth feel. Additionally, it carries the other flavors in the ice cream so you can enjoy it longer, leaving you with a lingering aftertaste,” she says. “But it is very expensive, in contrast to using 10% butterfat, which is what most ice cream shops do. All of our ice creams have between 16-18% butterfat, which is why they are so decadent.”
Everything in Clementine’s products is handcrafted. “If there’s a pie, cake or cookie in it, we make it, bake it and put it in it,” Tamara O’Keefe says.
