"YOUR STORY, YOUR SPIRIT, YOUR SPARK"
STYLE + BEAUTY THE LITTLE BLACK DRESS
LIFE + CULTURE
SELF-CARE STYLE
Style “Your Story, Your Spirit, Your Spark”
There’s something about September that invites a reset—a chance to refresh our routines, our closets, and maybe even our outlook. So what better time to talk about style—in all its fun, functional, and fabulous forms?
Style is far more than what we wear. It’s woven into the details of our daily lives—how we decorate our homes, the music we love, the books we reach for, even how we interact with the world. At its best, style is an expression of who we are.
This month, we begin with a tribute to an all-time classic: “The Little Black Dress.” First made famous by Coco Chanel in 1926, then catapulted to icon status by Audrey Hepburn’s Givenchy gown in “Breakfast at Tiffany’s”, the LBD became the ultimate wardrobe staple. To me, it’s like a little boost of confidence—simple, timeless, and it always works.
Next up, we showcase a different kind of style—one built from the ground up. “Family, Flooring & Florida Style” takes us inside Montgomery’s CarpetsPlus Colortile, a third-generation business that’s been serving Venice for over 40 years. More than beautiful flooring, it’s a story of relationships, trust, and community—a reminder that style is also about creating spaces that feel like home.
In “What’s Your Self-Care Style?” we’re exploring the habits and routines that help us recharge—because let’s face it, looking good on the outside means little if we’re feeling burned out inside. Self-care doesn’t always come naturally to me, but I’m working on it. From five-minute breathers to guilt-free “no’s,” this story offers simple, doable inspiration. We all can do better. Let’s start today.
Here in Venice, we’re lucky to be surrounded by style that inspires—whether it’s in local boutiques, creative entrepreneurs, or just the everyday beauty around us.
This month, let your style be a reflection of you—your story, your spirit, your spark.
With flair and gratitude,
September 2025
PUBLISHER
Charmaine Tincher | charmaine.tincher@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Emily Leinfuss | emily.leinfuss@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Emily Leinfuss, Angela Broockerd, Beth Del Ville
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Brian Glantz - 1st Glantz Media, Janie Jones, Amani Skalacki (Styling), Herb Booth
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 Antanette Ray
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
3:5-6
inside the issue
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD | PHOTOGRAPHY
BY JANIE JONES (STYLED BY AMANI SKALACKI)
The Little BLACK DRESS
Accessorize to infuse new life into a classic you already own—making it reflect your unique style
“WE USUALLY THINK OF THE LITTLE BLACK DRESS AS A PIECE YOU WEAR TO AN EVENT,” SAID STYLIST AMANI SKALACKI. “HOWEVER, BECAUSE BLACK IS SO FLATTERING ON ALL BODY TYPES AND SKIN TONES, WOMEN HAVE MULTIPLE BLACK DRESSES FROM CASUAL TO EVENING.”
Most of us can say we have that one staple black dress that can be worn at any occasion, and the classic look is not only popular but is elegant and timeless. It is the dress in our closet that can be accessorized to fit the event and often is the dress we go back to time and again. It is one of the most versatile items we own, never goes out of style and looks good on anyone. But how did this classic look originate?
Prior to the 1920s, black was reserved for funeral wear, but when Coco Chanel made the bold move to print a short, black dress on the cover of Vogue in 1926, all of that changed. The popularity of the black dress skyrocketed, and it became one of the most influential pieces of clothing. Chanel transported fashion from tight corsets and bustles to straight-lined silhouettes. Because of its affordability, black remained a popular choice during The Great Depression. The black dress had another boom in popularity when the film, "Breakfast at Tiffany’s" debuted, and Audrey Hepburn showcased her iconic black dress with
long, black gloves. Today, people accessorize the black dress to fit any occasion.
“We usually think of the little black dress as a piece you wear to an event,” said stylist Amani Skalacki. “However, because black is so flattering on all body types and skin tones, women have multiple black dresses from casual to evening.”
Although black is a timeless, classic look, that doesn’t mean it goes without personality. You can make it your own style by accessorizing to infuse new life into a dress that you already own.
“A sequin dress can be dressed up with heels, or that same dress can be transformed into a casual outfit with tennis shoes and an oversized blazer or denim jacket,” she explained. “Or, take that evening gown you wore years ago to a tailor… Pair the top with leather leggings, ankle boots, a chunky belt and some statement jewelry, and now you have a piece that pushes the boundaries of the little black dress.”
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Family, Flooring & Florida Style
ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS
(L-R) Mark Montgomery, Missy Montgomery, Mike Montgomery.
(Photo by Brian Glantz - 1st Glantz Media)
Walk into Montgomery’s CarpetsPlus Colortile showroom in Venice, and it won’t take long to spot a member of the Montgomery family. That’s by design. “We stagger our days off so that one of us is always here,” said Mike Montgomery, who co-owns the company with his brother Mark and sister Missy. Most days, customers will find either Mike, Mark or Missy on the showroom floor.
CONTINUED >
A modern twist on classic design—this carpet features a bold chevron pattern. It's Bright Side from the Perfect Home Style Statements collection.
This kind of hands-on approach is one of the many reasons Montgomery’s has become a trusted name in Venice over the past 40 years. It’s a true family business, with its third generation at the company deeply rooted in the local community and built on relationships, reliability, and style that lasts.
COMMERCIAL FLOORING BUILT ON RETIREMENT LIVING KNOW-HOW
Montgomery’s began in the commercial space, specifically serving retirement communities—an industry Mike Montgomery knew inside and out. In his twenties, he worked as an Executive Director of a senior living facility. But after several years, he realized he wanted something different. “I was undervalued in the position I held,” he recalled. “So I suggested to my dad, Vern, that we start our own business.”
Vern Montgomery had previously owned carpet stores in Ohio and Indiana, but by the mid-1990s, he was managing someone else’s flooring business in Venice. Although initially hesitant to venture out on his own again, Vern eventually agreed—with
Coastal Comfort in Aspen Breeze offers a fresh, breezy aesthetic with the resilience of waterproof luxury vinyl plank—part of the Perfect Home collection.
Shown here is Amber Trail in Carriage Oak from the Perfect Home Waterproof Luxury Vinyl Plank collection – bringing warmth and durability to any space.
one condition: the new business had to join a national buying group.
Through Vern’s industry contacts, the family connected with Alliance Flooring, the parent company of CarpetsPlus ColorTile. “We drove up to Atlanta to meet with them and drew up an agreement,” Mike recalls. Montgomery’s CarpetsPlus ColorTile officially opened its doors in September 1998.
Mike then used his connections in the retirement community industry to secure the company’s first two clients and grow the commercial side of the business. Today, Montgomery’s services major healthcare and senior living providers, including Sarasota Memorial Hospital, Doctors Hospital, and HCA. “We stock a lot of product specifically for our commercial accounts—retirement centers and hospitals,” Mike said. “We keep more than 30 pallets of hard surface products and multiple rolls of carpet in our warehouse at all times to avoid backlogs and shipping delays. We’ve learned to stay ahead by ordering early and negotiating special terms with our suppliers.”
A GROWING FOCUS ON RESIDENTIAL AND RETAIL
While the commercial side of the business flourished, the Montgomery family also expanded into the residential and retail market—and that part of the company has grown steadily over the years.
When you visit Montgomery’s retail showroom, you’ll meet even more of the family—two of Mike’s three daughters, Kiki and Courtney, are salespeople, and help run the business. “Our goal is to provide the right floor covering at the right price,” said Kiki. “We carry everything—carpet, hardwood, laminate, vinyl, tile, and custom area rugs. And we work with leading brands like Shaw, Mohawk, Masland, and many more!”
So, what’s trending in Venice? “People are starting to shift away from gray tones and are leaning
“Our goal is to provide the right floor covering at the right price. We carry everything — carpet, hardwood, laminate, vinyl, tile, and custom area rugs.”
toward French oak and herringbone patterns, which are still very classic looks,” said Courtney. “Venice is not a super trendy town—it’s very traditional. Customers want either those classic looks or beachy, coastal colors."
“Lighter floors are huge right now,” Kiki added.
One of the biggest shifts in recent years has been the rise of high-end vinyl plank flooring. “It’s really overtaken tile,” confirmed Kiki. “Vinyl plank lasts longer than carpet, it’s easy to maintain, and it’s hypoallergenic—so it works well for families with kids or pets.”
That said, carpet isn’t going anywhere. “People still want carpet in bedrooms,” she explained. “We’re seeing more subtle prints and even herringbone patterns in carpets now.”
PERSONALIZED, IN-HOME SERVICE
At Montgomery’s, it’s not just about what looks good in the showroom—it’s about what works best
Soft, neutral, and full of texture, this carpet is Seascape in color 122 from the Perfect Home Style Statements collection.
in your home. That’s where longtime team member Theresa McBee comes in. Born and raised in Venice, Theresa has been with the company for more than two decades. She and commercial flooring specialist Dan Arden (who once played basketball for Mike at Venice High) bring an extra level of insight to every project.
“We always recommend starting with a consultation,” Theresa said. “Many customers come in with a general idea of the look they want, but we help them narrow it down based on their home and lifestyle.”
That includes asking the right questions: Are there pets? Children? Are there issues with the existing flooring? “We focus on understanding the performance needs first,” Theresa added.
The team at Montgomery’s CarpetsPlus Colortile includes: Front (L-R): Courtney Montgomery, Theresa McBee, Fran Cirrincione, Dominic Moore, Kathy Prailes, Scott Wilson: Back (L-R) Mark Montgomery, KiKi Montgomery, Mike Montgomery, Daniel Arden, Missy Montgomery, and Adam Walker. (Photo by Brian Glantz - 1st Glantz Media)
Customers usually fall into one of three categories, she explained: They’re tired of their current floors, they’ve seen something new they love, or they’re dealing with wear and installation issues. “There are always new products and styles,” Theresa said. “Things change fast.”
To make the selection process easier, Montgomery’s team often brings samples directly to customers’ homes. “We’ll go over colors in the showroom, and then we come out to the house to see how the materials look in their space, with their lighting,” Kiki explained. “That part is essential.”
THE MONTGOMERY DIFFERENCE
With a 6,000-square-foot warehouse, a dedicated team, and a community-focused mindset, Montgomery’s is uniquely positioned to serve both large-scale commercial clients and individual homeowners. But what really sets them apart is their commitment to family—and to Venice.
“The majority of our staff graduated from Venice High,” Mike said. “We’ve been part of this community our entire lives.”
That deep local connection means something to their customers. “You can buy floors or carpet from anyone,” Mike continued. “But when you call Montgomery’s, you speak directly to one of us—my brother, my sister, my daughters, or myself. That’s part of what makes us different. We’re here, and we care.”
“Many customers come in with a general idea of the look they want, but we help them narrow it down based on their home and lifestyle.”
Sleek and versatile, Stone Elements in Moonlight brings the natural look of tile with the ease of luxury vinyl—part of the Perfect Home LVT collection.
Amber Trail in Lana Taupe delivers timeless style and waterproof performance from the Perfect Home Luxury Vinyl Plank line.
Self-care isn’t one size fits all, that’s what makes it interesting! Some find peace in meditation, others in a jog or quiet family time. Whether it’s a treadmill podcast, five minutes of silence, or saying “no” guilt-free, self-care comes in many forms. This article shares real stories of how people make self-care fit their busy lives. Ready to find your style and feel more energized? Let’s dive in!
W H AT ’S YOUR SELF-CARESTYLE?
DAILY HABITS THAT WORK: SIMPLE ACTIONS FOR BUSY LIVES
ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS
Deniese Kragel
Renew Health-Wellness Coach, HealthFit powered by SMH
Self-care became essential for me when I realized it was time to take care of myself, no one else was going to do that for me. In my role as a wellness coach, I’ve seen how people naturally gravitate toward habits that promote wellness—things like good sleep, staying hydrated, eating quality food, exercising, strength training, and even oral hygiene.
One small but powerful habit I practice daily is meditation. It helps center me and brings calm.
When life feels overwhelming, I make my world smaller by spending more time with myself instead of being there for everyone else. I focus on the next right thing in front of me. Another way I reset is by doing random acts of kindness anonymously; it’s a great way to shift my mindset.
I know I need to slow down when my energy dips— when I feel tired, emotions get bigger and my brain feels smaller. That’s the time to stop pushing and pay attention to what I need.
My advice? Keep self-care simple. Set one smart goal you can stick to, rather than trying to do everything at once. Find the habits that work for you and help you thrive. smhfit.com, smhrenew.com
CONTINUED >
(Photo by Herb Booth)
Mary Moscatelli
CEO, Venice Art Center
When I first started at Venice Art Center, I didn’t know how to say “no.” I was always busy, constantly on the go. Sixteen years later, I’ve learned to prioritize connecting with my family—my 22-year-old daughter and my partner, Patrick. They are now at the heart of my self-care and life.
A simple but meaningful habit is reaching out to my daughter every day, even if it’s just a quick message or something funny to make her smile. That connection means a lot. When Patrick and I come home, we turn on music and talk—that’s how we check in and unwind together.
When life feels overwhelming, I find my reset in creativity. I visit the Art Center classrooms to see what the kids are working on or get inspired by adult classes. Creating my own art lets everything else float away—creativity is my form of self-care and expression.
I’m not always great at noticing physical fatigue, but mentally, I know when I need a break, usually after too much detailed work alone. I used to think I had to do it all—be a great mom, partner, and professional. Now I know self-care isn’t selfish; it’s essential. veniceartcenter.com
Jacques
May Director of Communications, Agape Flights
Self-care isn’t a luxury—it’s essential. I’ve learned it’s about nurturing my emotional, physical, and spiritual health. I can’t pour into others if I haven’t taken time to be filled myself. It’s how I honor the person God created me to be. One small habit that keeps me grounded is spending ten minutes in silence before the world wakes up. That quiet space helps me reconnect with purpose and start the day clear and focused.
When life feels overwhelming, prayer is my anchor—it reminds me I don’t have to carry everything alone. Time with my wife and son also helps me reset and return to what matters most.
I know I need to slow down when I start shutting people out just to get things done. That’s when I remind myself: “Live your life with people, not through people.”
Self-care can feel taboo—especially for men—but it starts with self-love. It’s not selfish. It’s how we stay whole. agapeflights.com
Self-care is often misunderstood as selfish, but it’s necessary. My advice? Take it one step at a time and find a buddy to keep you motivated.
-Beverly Day
Beverly Day
Director of Marketing and Sales, Village on the Isle
Self-care means making my well-being as much a priority as everyone else’s. Over time, I’ve grown more comfortable putting my own needs first when necessary. One small but powerful habit I stick to is exercise. It’s easy to put off, but it feels great to do something good for myself. I use the elliptical at the gym or go for a jog outside—both energize and motivate me.
When life feels overwhelming, I get outside. A walk helps me reset—I look at the sky and notice the life around me. Whether at the beach or a shady neighborhood, it reminds me life keeps moving, even when things feel heavy.
I know I need to slow down when small things upset me. That’s my signal to take a break and sometimes talk with a good friend to reset.
Self-care is often misunderstood as selfish, but it’s necessary. My advice? Take it one step at a time and find a buddy to keep you motivated. villageontheisle.com
Christina McCauley
CEO, Habitat for Humanity South Sarasota County
Self-care used to mean squeezing in a workout or scheduling a massage. Now, it’s about paying attention to what I truly need—physically, mentally, emotionally—and honoring that. Sometimes it’s still a workout, but other times it’s saying no or resting without guilt. It’s less about treating myself and more about caring for myself so I can fully show up.
A small but powerful habit I practice is hitting the treadmill three times a week, usually with a show or podcast. It’s my escape.
When life feels overwhelming, I turn to water and sun—a dip in the pool, a beach visit, or just lying outside helps me reset.
I know it’s time to slow down when I get tired, forget things, or catch a cold. That’s when we head to a cabin in Blue Ridge, Georgia, where nature and quiet help me breathe again.
Self-care isn’t indulgent—it’s essential, especially when you think you don’t have time for it. habitatsouthsarasota.org
Self-care isn’t a luxury—it’s how we keep going, even if it’s just five minutes.
-Derek Blankenship
Derek Blankenship
Executive Director, Venice Institute for Performing Arts
Self-care is something I neglected for a long time, especially in high-pressure roles. Now, it means being intentional about my mental, physical, and emotional well-being—whether it’s a walk, a massage, or simply giving myself space to rest. I’m learning to treat myself with the same compassion I offer others.
Short walks help me reset after long hours or intense meetings. Music and humor keep me grounded, and my support system reminds me I’m not alone.
When life feels overwhelming, being outside—whether yard work or sunshine—helps clear my head. Stepping away from work and into nature brings me back to myself.
I know I need to slow down when I get more intense, routines slip, and sleep suffers. Sometimes I notice; other times my family points it out. I’m learning to listen before things spiral.
Self-care isn’t a luxury—it’s how we keep going, even if it’s just five minutes. veniceperformingartscenter.com
At Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School, faith formation is not limited to religion class—it is a living, daily encounter with Christ through prayer, community, and learning. Students attend daily Mass, participate in the sacraments, and grow in virtue alongside peers, teachers, and the parish community.
“We send our kids to Epiphany Cathedral School because we feel learning the faith beyond what we teach at home along with going to daily Mass provides them with the tools necessary to face this current culture,” share parents Kevin and Kim. “The academic education they receive challenges them and the teachers build relationships to inspire and push them to their full potential. While it is a sacrifice, it is one that we feel has lifelong rewards!”
SIXTIESMANIA® A JOURNEY THROUGH THE SIXTIES
Sunday, November 16, 2025 • 3:00 pm
Sixtiesmania® is America’s ultimate ’60s tribute band—from the Beatles’ British Invasion to Woodstock and beyond! Stones, Monkees, CCR, Doors, Beach Boys, and more—all the anthems of the Summer of Love!
NIGHTBIRD SWFL – THE ULTIMATE TRIBUTE TO STEVIE NICKS
Sunday, November 23, 2025 • 7:00 pm
Get ready for a night of Stevie magic with NightBird—Florida’s #1 Stevie Nicks tribute! Angela Chang rocks hits like “Gold Dust Woman,” “Everywhere,” and “Edge of Seventeen.”
THE TEXAS TENORS: DEEP IN THE HEART OF CHRISTMAS
Monday, December 22, 2025 • 7:00 pm
The Texas Tenors bring holiday magic with Deep in the Heart of Christmas! Enjoy “O Holy Night,” “Joy to the World,” “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’,” and their hit “Bootdaddy.” Soaring harmonies and festive fun—perfect for the whole family!
ARTICLE BY BETH
Curated coffee table books for every interior and interest
OBJETS D’ART
DEL VILLE
01.
for the one with wanderlust
CAPRI DOLCE VITA
Tour the ancient island of Capri in this bright and gorgeously oversized book. It features more than 270 glittering pages with glamorous photos of life on the sun-soaked island. Written by Cesare Cunaccia, a writer, lecturer, curator and journalist who served as editor at large for Vogue Italia and L’Uomo Vogue, as well as the antiques consultant for Architectural Digest Italy.
for the car connoisseur
THE LAMBORGHINI BOOK
02.
Author Michael Köckritz pays homage to the influence and beauty of the iconic Italian luxury sports car brand in this opulent book. Filled with striking images and interesting background information, this is sure to be on the top of any true car connoisseur’s stack.
03.
for the foodie
CHÂTEAU LIFE
A veritable feast for the eyes, Australian Jane Webster’s Château Life, photographed by Robyn Lea, features sixty scrumptious recipes categorized around ten themes, along with images of the Webster family’s life at Château Bosgouet in Normandy. Joie de vivre, indeed!
At Habitat for Humanity South Sarasota County, we build more than houses we build strength, stability, and self-reliance through affordable homeownership.
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Freedom Health, Inc. is an HMO plan with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in Freedom Health, Inc. depends on contract renewal. We do not discriminate, exclude people, or treat them differently on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability in our health programs and activities. Hablamos español y podemos ayudarle a encontrar el plan ideal para usted. If you speak a language other than English, translation and alternate format services are available to you on a standing basis, free of charge. Just call 1-800-401-2740 (TTY: 711), 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday to Friday. The Active Fitness benefit is a monthly allowance towards the payment of facility access fees for golf, tennis, or swimming. The amount rolls over to the next month, but not to the next year. Benefits vary by plan.
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events
SEPTEMBER 6TH
Cars & Caffeine
Wellen Park | 7:30 AM
Start your engines! Join Wellen Park, Foxtail Coffee, and Antique Automobile Club of America (AACA) - Venice Region, for Cars & Caffeine. This informal meet-up for auto enthusiasts occurs monthly on first Saturdays from September through May at 7:30 a.m.–10:30 a.m. All makes and models welcome. wellenpark.com/events/cars-caffeine/
SEPTEMBER 6TH -7TH
16th Annual Labor Day Weekend Venice Craft Festival
Downtown Venice- Miami Avenue West | 10:00 AM
Don’t miss this awesome annual event, the Downtown Venice Craft Festival, on Miami Ave! Enjoy handmade arts, crafts, jewelry, ceramics, and more—plus a green market with plants and eco-friendly items. Free admission, Saturday & Sunday, July 6-7, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
VisitVeniceFL.org
SEPTEMBER 11TH
Tee It Up for the Troops
Plantation Golf & Country Club
Support our veterans at the Tee It Up for the Troops charity golf tournament—a day of golf, gratitude, and giving. Enjoy a patriotic ceremony, heartfelt tributes, and a lively reception with an auction. Learn more details at teeitupforthetroops.org/event/golf-plantation-2025/
SEPTEMBER 12TH
Friday Night Concert Series in the Park
Gazebo at Centennial Park | 7:00 PM
Join the fun in historic downtown Venice for the bimonthly Friday Night Concert Series, held every second and fourth Friday at the gazebo in Centennial Park from 7 p.m.-9 p.m. Hosted by Venice MainStreet and sponsored by Neal Communities. Free and open to the public. Bring your own chairs! Sept. 12- Rocky Rick, Sept. 26 - Nick Fiasco. VisitVeniceFL.org
SEPTEMBER 19TH- 20TH
September Sidewalk Sale
Downtown Venice District - Miami, Tampa, and West Venice Avenues
Shop Venice, Miami, and Tampa Avenues September 19–20 for fantastic end-of-summer savings! Enjoy great deals and in-store specials from local merchants while supporting small, local businesses during this exciting two-day sidewalk sale. VisitVeniceFL.org
SEPTEMBER 27TH
Venice Beach Party
Venice Public Beach | 1:00 PM
Enjoy live music, food trucks, beer, wine and specialty drinks on the beach! Catch the free trolley running from Centennial Park to Venice Beach, plus free parking and free entry! Venice Public Beach from 1 p.m. - 6 p.m. Organized by Venice MainStreet. VisitVeniceFL.org
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