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STYLE IS WHERE CREATIVITY BLOOMS LI F E + C U LTU R E

N EW SE A SO NS TAKE TH E STAGE

S E P TE M B E R 2 02 6

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

Where Style Blooms Dear Reader, I hope this letter finds you ready to celebrate all the different ways style shows up in our lives. When people hear the word style, they often think about fashion. But style is so much more than what we wear. It can be found in the way we decorate our homes, the flowers we arrange, the art we create, the music we enjoy and even how we choose to live each day. It's one of the many ways we express who we are. That's what inspired this month's issue of Venice City Lifestyle. The arts take center stage as we preview two exciting new performing arts seasons. Sarasota Ballet celebrates its 20th anniversary with a blend of beloved classics and bold new works, while the Venice Performing Arts Center welcomes audiences back with another outstanding lineup of performances. We also highlight the Venice Art Center's collaboration with I AM HUMANITY, an exhibition that encourages our community to reflect on our shared human experience through creativity and conversation. And speaking of creativity, meet Venice artist Haley Ponder, whose new mobile flower bar is bringing hands-on floral fun to parties, markets and special events throughout the community. Style also comes home in this issue. We feature interior decorator Gayle Rector and her thoughtful approach to helping clients create homes that truly reflect who they are. Then we share practical advice on choosing the right interior designer to help bring your own vision to life. Of course, we couldn't have a Style issue without talking about personal style. We visit with several local style leaders, who share their favorite fashion tips, go-to accessories and the little things that help them look and feel their best. Finally, we take a look at the future as Village On The Isle unveils plans for Arbor Vita, a beautiful new campus designed to offer active, connected living for area seniors. However you express your own style—through fashion, your home, your creativity or simply the way you treat others—I hope this issue inspires you to celebrate what makes you uniquely you. Here's to living life with style!

CHARMAINE TINCHER, PUBLISHER @ V E N I C E C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E M AG A Z I N E

September 2026 PUBLISHER

Charmaine Tincher | charmaine.tincher@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R

Emily Leinfuss | emily.leinfuss@citylifestyle.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jessie Marie Glantz, Yvette Wasserman, Emily Leinfuss C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R

Brian Glantz/1st Glantz Media

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry CRO Jamie Pentz CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Venice City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Media Partners LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Venice area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Media

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Partners’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Media Partners does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Venice City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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inside the issue SE PTE M B E R 2 02 6 | STYL E

10 Featured

WHY CHOOSE BETWEEN PRESTIGE AND PLACEMENT?

Departments

Sarasota Ballet Marks 20 Years

Anniversary season blends returning favorites, bold premieres, and a balance of classical and contemporary works

Beloved Favorites, Brilliant New Moments

Venice Performing Arts Center’s 2026–2027 season takes center stage

Print Prestige Meets Digital Power.

Lifestyle Letter

Business Monthly

Must See ARTS + CULTURE

Local Limelight ARTS + CULTURE

Trend Setter HOME + DESIGN

Inspired By HOME + DESIGN

Locally Sourced EVENT PLANNING + SERVICES

Giving Back ENTERTAINMENT

Local’s Choice STYLE + BEAUTY

Home Update HOME + DESIGN

Style Starts Here

Local tastemakers share tips, wardrobe staples and the little things that help them feel great

On the Cover An abundance of colorful blooms evokes the fresh flowers guests can mix, match and transform into personalized bouquets at Venice artist Haley Ponder’s Comet Creation mobile flower bar.

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941.359.0099 | SarasotaBallet.org Ricardo Rhodes | Photo by Matthew Holler

SEPTEMBER 2026

business monthly A R O U N D U P O F N E W S F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast Promotes Mascarenhas Vinnie Mascarenhas has been named Vice President of Marketing and Communications at Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast. She joined the organization in November 2025 as Director of Development and Strategic Initiatives for South Sarasota and Charlotte counties. In her new role, she will lead marketing, branding, communications, public relations and digital strategy across the organization's 10-county service area while supporting volunteer recruitment, fundraising and community engagement. Bbbssun.org

Dane DeSantis Joins Community Foundation of Sarasota Board Venice businessman Dane DeSantis has been appointed to the Community Foundation of Sarasota County's Board of Directors for a three-year term. DeSantis, owner and president of Hallmark Business Brokers, is joined by new board members Greg DiDomenico, former president and CEO of the Community Memorial Foundation in Illinois, and Greg Parris, a retired Bank of America senior vice president and CFO. CFSarasota.org

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VNWC Donates School Supplies to Support Foster Children through TWIG The Venice Nokomis Woman’s Club helped local foster children head back to school with confidence by donating approximately $2,000 in school supplies to The TWIG. Contributions from 18 club members included backpacks, notebooks and other classroom essentials for hundreds of children served through the foster care program. The donations support The TWIG’s mission of ensuring every child in foster care knows they matter, regardless of the circumstances they face. Venice-NokomisWomansClub.org

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S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / V E N I C E

Samuel Gest in Sir Frederick Ashton's “Romeo and Juliet” for Program Three: December 18-29 (Photograph by Frank Atura).

SARASOTA BALLET MARKS 20 YEARS WITH LEGACY AND VISION ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS

M UST SE E | ARTS + C ULT U RE

“Wolfgang for Webb”, Choreography by Dominic Walsh; music by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart - Program One: October 23-25, 2026 (Photo by Frank Atura).

Anniversary season blends returning favorites, bold premieres, and a balance of classical and contemporary works

From Program One through Program Seven, The Sarasota Ballet’s 20th anniversary season is both a celebration and a clear statement of where the company stands today under the leadership of Artistic Director Iain Webb. The 2026–27 season features 16 ballets by 13 choreographers, including eight company premieres—one of the most ambitious lineups in its history. What gives the season its deeper resonance, however, is Webb’s intentional return to works that helped shape the company’s identity, creating a thoughtful dialogue between past achievements and present momentum. That sense of coming full circle begins with Wolfgang for Webb, created by Dominic Walsh for Webb’s very first season, now being performed in Program One. It continues with The Two Pigeons, the first Frederick Ashton ballet Webb brought to Sarasota, returning in Program Three. In Program Two, audiences will see Friday’s Child from Ashton’s Jazz Calendar, most recently performed during the company’s 2024 London tour. The season also revisits Lyric Pieces by resident choreographer Jessica Lang, first presented during the company’s second season—another nod to the early building blocks of Sarasota Ballet’s repertoire. CONTINUED >

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Marijana Dominis and Ricardo Rhodes in “Friday's Child” from Sir Frederick Ashton's Jazz Calendar. (Photo by Foteini Christofilopoulou).

These returning works—many of them contemporary—are paired with new choreography and major premieres, reflecting a season carefully balanced between innovation and tradition. Contemporary voices share the stage with classical cornerstones like Romeo and Juliet, creating a dynamic interplay that defines Webb’s artistic vision and keeps the repertoire both grounded and forward-looking. That foundation is especially meaningful here. The company only recently brought Sir Frederick Ashton’s 1955 full-length Romeo and Juliet to the stage—after its planned 2020 debut was delayed by the pandemic—and has now secured the rights to perform it in perpetuity. Its return in Program Six in March 2027 signals not just a highlight, but an enduring place in the repertoire and a lasting investment in the company’s classical legacy. A standout addition is the company premiere of Mercuric Tidings by renowned choreographer Paul Taylor—a coup Webb has described as a “miraculous get.” The connection deepens in February 2027, when the Paul Taylor Dance Company returns as a guest for the first time since 2020, further underscoring Sarasota Ballet’s growing national and international presence.

“Mercuric Tidings”: Choreography by Paul Taylor, Music by Franz Schubert – Program Four: January 29 – February 1, 2027 (Photo by Whitney Browne).

“The Two Pigeons”, Choreography by Sir Frederick Ashton; music by Andre Messager – Program Three: December 18-29 (Photo: Frank Atura).

Kate Honea in Antony Tudor's “Gala Performance”, Program Seven: April 30-May 1, 2027 (Photo Gene Schiavone).

M UST SE E | ARTS + C ULT U RE

When unveiling the season, Webb spoke candidly about the personal and artistic journey behind these choices—from his early years in Yorkshire to leading a company now firmly on the international stage. The result is a season that blends legacy with momentum. “This next season is about family,” Webb said. “It’s about The Sarasota Ballet, and it’s about Sarasota itself.”

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BELOVED FAVORITES, BRILLIANT NEW MOMENTS VENICE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER’S 2026–2027 SEASON TAKES CENTER STAGE

ARTICLE BY YVETTE WASSERMAN

The stage is set for VPAC's 2026/27 season!

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | ARTS + CU LT U RE

The stage is set for an unforgettable season at the Venice Performing Arts Center, where legendary music, spectacular performances, and unforgettable nights await. The Venice Institute for Performing Arts Management (VIPAM) has unveiled its highly anticipated 2026–2027 Season, featuring the return of audience favorites alongside exciting new productions making their Venice debut. From timeless classics to fresh new experiences, there's something for every music lover.

Back by popular demand are SIXTIESMANIA®, Piano Men: Generations, Rumours, The Rod Show, and Beatles vs. Stones— the crowd-pleasing hits that had audiences singing, dancing, and cheering for more. Making their Venice debut are unforgettable new productions, including Voctave: It Feels Like Christmas, the dazzling Cher theatrical experience The Beat Goes On, Tennessee River celebrating the music of Alabama, Creedence Revived, plus two nostalgia-packed finales—3 Decades Rewind and The Monkee Men. Every ticket purchased does more than bring first-class entertainment to the stage—it helps fuel VIPAM's mission to inspire the next generation through innovative arts education, with its acclaimed Venice High School Apprenticeship Program, while enriching arts and culture throughout the Venice community. Many performances are expected to sell out, so don't wait. Explore the full 2026–2027 Season, along with performances by the Venice Concert Band, The Venice Chorale, and The Venice Symphony, at VenicePerformingArtsCenter.com and reserve your seats today. S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / V E N I C E

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Decorating Therapy: Where Home Begins Interior Decorator Gayle Rector takes clients on a journey of self-discovery and intention

Venice Living Furniture & Interiors’ president and CEO Gayle Rector has been transforming indoor spaces in Southwest Florida since 1963. From Grey Oaks Country Club and Sharky’s on The Pier to private homes, retirement communities, and apartments, Rector puts the unique wishes of her clients at the forefront of her design philosophy. This warm, personalized approach to interior decorating begins with an illuminating twohour meeting that Rector calls “Decorating Therapy” – a process she created to uncover each client’s wants, needs, and aspirations. “We try to listen carefully to our clients’ hearts’ desires and make that all come true, no matter what,’ said Rector. She explained that Decorating Therapy revolves around fact-finding. “We ask a lot of ‘why’ questions. Why do you love this piece of furniture? … why did you move here? … why is this important to you?” The ensuing conversations are transformative in themselves, as clients express, possibly for the first time, the meaning behind each stylistic decision they have made. “We get them to talk about things they may not even have considered before…or tried to put it into a sentence or a thought … it's just a feeling for them. And so, we try to help them take that feeling into reality.”

ARTICLE BY JESSIE MARIE GLANTZ

T R E N D SE T T E R | HO ME + D E SIGN

Whether the project calls for slight changes or a large-scale makeover, clients receive a thorough, possibly therapeutic, consultation and enjoy highly personalized results. “We need to hear your vision of what your dream home in your mind looks like,” said Rector of the initial two-hour session. “Sometimes it's just for a room, sometimes it's for an entire house,” she noted. There are even instances when “it's for a house that's not built yet [and] we’re working with blueprints.” After the initial Decorating Therapy session, clients then meet with a designer in the Venice Living Design Center, where they can envision their new space with the materials that best fit their profile. Those materials cover the gamut. “We do wallpaper, wall colors, flooring, area rugs, art,” Rector said. “We start with the basics and … we lay the last accessory.”

Gayle Rector in The Design Center at Venice Living Furniture & Interiors. (Photo by Brian Glantz/1st Glantz Media)

A kitchen fit for hosting guests and everyday meals shines with a new, bright design.

Each client’s lifestyle and values, which are revealed in Decorating Therapy, are thoughtfully reflected in the final details. “I just [worked with] a gentleman who … lost his wife,” recalled Rector, “so we had asked for some pictures, and we actually had an original piece of art done with her in it … so that she was still a part of this project.” “This was their dream, to have this home in Venice, and so we totally included her,” she explained. The importance of honoring and accommodating family and friends The stylish result of a bedroom transformation.

is often emphasized in Decorating Therapy. Rector noted that many individuals struggle with hosting company in small spaces due to a lack of seating room, which she described as “the number one issue” her team faces. To this end, Rector herself cleverly implements minor changes that have a major impact: exchanging a cramped kitchen dinette for a sprawling banquette or using a combination of sofas, loveseats, and chairs to open up a modest living room. “We are problem solvers all the time,” she smiled. If Rector could describe Decorating Therapy in one word, it would be “discovery.” “That's the point of Decorating Therapy,” she said: to “discover who you are, discover what you want the room to look like, [and] discover that you can achieve your dreams.”

S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / V E N I C E

DESIGN WITH CONFIDENCE

Creating a relaxing, Zen feeling in the bedroom.

Here’s what ever y Venice homeowner should know about hiring an interior designer

I NSP IR E D BY | HO ME + D E SIGN

Whether you’re refreshing one room or giving your entire home a new look, hiring an interior designer can make the process easier—and often more enjoyable. But like any important partnership, finding the right person is about more than loving their portfolio.

Interior designers can really help with choosing new color schemes. A cozy, blue modern lanai design.

Start by defining your own style. Spend some time saving photos of rooms that catch your eye. Are you drawn to coastal comfort, clean contemporary lines, traditional elegance or something more eclectic? Having a visual starting point makes it much easier to find a designer whose work naturally aligns with your taste. Next, look beyond beautiful photos. Browse a designer’s portfolio, website and social media pages to see if they have experience with projects similar to yours. Reading client reviews can also provide insight into how they communicate and manage projects from beginning to end. Once you’ve narrowed your choices, schedule a consultation. This is your opportunity to see whether the relationship feels like a good fit. The best designers spend as much time listening as they do talking. They should ask about your lifestyle, how you use your home, your priorities, your timeline and your budget before suggesting solutions. Speaking of budgets, don’t be shy about discussing money early in the process. Ask how fees are structured, what’s included, and whether project management, shopping, installations or revisions are part of the package. Every designer works differently, so clear expectations help prevent surprises later. It’s also worth asking how involved you’d like to be. Some homeowners enjoy shopping for furnishings and making selections themselves, while others prefer a designer to handle every detail. Neither approach is right or wrong—as long as everyone is on the same page. Perhaps the biggest takeaway is this: trust your instincts. You’ll be working closely with this person for weeks or even months, so choose someone who listens well, communicates clearly and respects your vision. A talented interior designer doesn’t create their dream home—they help bring your dream home to life. With the right partnership, the result is more than a beautiful space. It’s a home that feels comfortable, functional and unmistakably yours.

HOMEOWNERS SHARE THEIR BEST ADVICE

When homeowners were asked what they wish they had known before hiring an interior designer, a few themes came up again and again. Communication topped the list. Many said the best experiences happened when designers took time to ask thoughtful questions, listened carefully

CONTINUED >

S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / V E N I C E

The right interior designer can help you create a home that’s as beautiful as it is comfortable, functional, and uniquely yours.

Top: Putting colors together for a living room look that pops. Bottom: Rocking a retro style kitchen.

I NSP IR E D BY | HO ME + D E SIGN

and respected the homeowner’s vision instead of steering every decision. Several people recommended reviewing a designer’s portfolio before committing. Seeing examples of previous work helps determine whether their style matches your own—and whether they can successfully work in different design styles. Budget was another common topic. Homeowners suggested discussing fees upfront, understanding exactly what services are included, and asking how purchases are handled. Some preferred paying a flat

design fee, while others liked designers who offered flexibility by allowing clients to shop on their own. Many also encouraged gathering inspiration before the first meeting. Saving photos from magazines, Pinterest or Houzz gives designers a clearer picture of the look you’re hoping to achieve. Finally, homeowners agreed on one thing: don’t be afraid to ask questions. The right designer welcomes conversation, values your input and wants the finished space to reflect your personality—not someone else’s.

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S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / V E N I C E

WHERE Creativity Blooms, ONE BOUQUET AT A Time Venice artist Haley Ponder’s Comet Creation Flower Bar lets guests create personalized bouquets for every celebration

A beautiful floral arrangement created at Comet Creation Mobile Flower Bar.

ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS

Venice artist Haley Ponder is known for her colorful resin artwork, handcrafted charcuterie boards and years of teaching at the Venice Art Center. This year, she added a fresh chapter to her creative journey by launching Comet Creation Flower Bar, a parttime mobile business that brings interactive floral experiences to parties, markets and special events. Instead of simply providing floral decorations, Ponder arrives with a charming white tiered flower bar filled with fresh blooms, greenery and seasonal accents. Guests browse the flowers, choose their favorite stems and create bouquets to take home. "Flowers have this incredible way of evoking emotion and making you be more present," Ponder said. "The mobile format lets me reach more people—from backyard parties to corporate events to markets—while staying true to my roots as an artist and teacher." Comet Creation flower bar has become a popular addition to bridal showers, baby showers, community events and more. Every setup can be customized with favorite flowers, color palettes or seasonal blooms, making each experience unique. Ponder's background as an artist impacts everything from the flower bar's presentation to the way she encourages guests to create. Rather than directing every arrangement, she invites people to experiment and discover combinations that reflect their own personalities. That creative freedom has led to the biggest surprise since launching the business. "I thought I was selling flowers and activities," she said. "I'm actually selling confidence, creativity and connection." She especially enjoys watching guests who claim they aren't artistic leave proudly carrying bouquets they designed themselves. Guests curate their own stunning bouquets, creating memorable bridal shower party favors.

LOCA LLY SOU R CE D | EVEN T PLAN N IN G + SE RVICE S

Artist Haley Ponder's Comet Creation Flower Bar pops up at The Flowery in Venice.

From soft and romantic to bright and bold, the bouquet possibilities are nearly endless.

Looking ahead, Ponder hopes to grow Comet Creation throughout the region with corporate events, private celebrations and pop-up markets. But her mission remains simple. "We don't just sell flowers—we give people permission to create," she said. "Whether you think you're artistic or not, you're encouraged to play, experiment and make something beautiful with your own hands." A "Mommy & Me" floral experience creates lasting memories at Comet Creation Flower Bar. S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / V E N I C E

ART, COMMUNIT Y AND A

S h a re d V i s i o n

Venice exhibition and global celebration invite the communit y to ref lect on humanit y through art The global nonprofit I AM HUMANITY is returning to Venice for a second year, inviting the community to celebrate creativity, connection and a shared vision for the future through art and conversation. The Washington, D.C.-based organization is collaborating with the Venice Art Center on an exhibition from Sept. 18 through Oct. 8, 2026, featuring works by local artists inspired by the theme "I Am Humanity." All are invited to an opening reception on Friday, Sept. 18, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. In addition, the organization will host a local Zoom watch party for I AM HUMANITY Day on Oct. 24 at Sarasota's Fogartyville, beginning at 11 a.m. The five-hour event will connect attendees with a worldwide celebration exploring what it means to belong to humanity. I AM HUMANITY Executive Director Susan Hoskins credits Venice resident Patricia Colbert with helping establish the partnership between I AM HUMANITY and the Venice Art Center.

"Patricia saw the possibility of this collaboration with the Venice Art Center, bringing artistic expression alive to celebrate Humanity Day," Hoskins said. "She made it happen for the first time last year. We are so honored that the Venice Art Center has chosen to host the I AM HUMANITY exhibition for a second year." Founded as a global movement, I AM HUMANITY encourages people to recognize their shared humanity while celebrating the diversity of cultures, ideas and experiences that strengthen communities. Through art, education, partnerships and public events, the organization seeks to inspire dialogue, foster belonging and encourage collaborative action in response to today's global challenges. "My hope is that local residents can ponder and see that we can collectively choose to step into a bright future together, a future of humanity flourishing for generations to come," Hoskins said.

We a r e s o h o n o r e d t h a t t h e Ve n i c e A r t C e n t e r h a s c h o s e n t o h o s t t h e I A M H U M A N I T Y e x h i b i t i o n fo r a s e c o n d y e a r. 26

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Style Starts Here Venice City Lifestyle asked five local tastemakers to share their favorite style tips, wardrobe staples and the little things that help them feel their best

Jesse Murse

R U G S A S A R T | R U G S A S A R T.C O M

Q. IF YOU HAD TO WEAR ONE COLOR FOR A YEAR, WHAT WOULD IT BE? A. White... or black. Both are clean, classic and work with just about everything. Q. WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE FASHION OR STYLE TIP? A. Fit over everything. You don’t have to wear the most expensive clothes.

If something fits well—from a T-shirt to a suit—and you feel comfortable in it, you’ll naturally carry yourself with more confidence.

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Q. WHAT’S ONE ITEM YOU NEVER LEAVE HOME WITHOUT? A. Water! Staying hydrated is important for our health and overall well-being, but it also impacts the way we look.

Q. WHAT’S ONE ACCESSORY OR PIECE OF CLOTHING YOU WEAR OVER AND OVER? A. A comfortable tee and a great-fitting pair of jeans. That’s my daily “uniform.” I

may change it up with a lightweight sweater or tailored shirt, but it’s almost always paired with great-fitting jeans. If I’m attending an event, I do love a beautiful dress!

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Q. WHAT’S ONE ACCESSORY OR PIECE OF CLOTHING YOU WEAR OVER AND OVER? A. Khaki shorts—of course! I probably own more than 50 pairs. They’re comfortable, practical and just right for the Florida lifestyle.

Q. WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE FASHION OR STYLE TIP? A. Wear what makes you feel comfortable. Confidence comes naturally when you’re not trying to be someone you’re not.

Rene Perry

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Q. WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE FASHION OR STYLE TIP? A. Invest in timeless, well-made pieces and keep your overall look simple. Whether it’s fashion or interiors, quality and confidence will always outlast trends.

Q. WHAT’S ONE THING THAT ALWAYS MAKES YOU FEEL CONFIDENT? A. Knowing I’m prepared. When I’ve done my homework and have a clear

vision, I walk into every meeting with confidence because I know I can help my clients create something beautiful.

Becca Belangia T H E S PA AT D AV I S & B E Y E R | V E N I C E D E N T I S T.C O M

Q. WHAT’S ONE ITEM YOU NEVER LEAVE HOME WITHOUT? A. A positive attitude! It sets the tone for my day, helps me connect with people,

and reminds me that even small moments of kindness can make a lasting impact.

Q. WHAT’S ONE THING THAT ALWAYS MAKES YOU FEEL CONFIDENT? A. The unwavering love and support of my family give me the strength and

encouragement to keep showing up with compassion, purpose, and a genuine desire to help others.

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A rendering of VOTI's Arbor Vita entrance.

VOTI LAUNCHES PLANS FOR ARBOR VITA CAMPUS Village On The Isle’s new satellite campus will include 130 independent living apartments and 50 standalone cottages with resort-style amenities

Arbor Vita will feature 130 independent living apartments and 50 standalone cottages.

Village On The Isle (VOTI) is expanding its vision for active senior living with the announcement of Arbor Vita, a new 50-acre satellite campus planned for 2705 E. Venice Ave. in Venice.

H OM E U P DAT E | HO M E + D E SIGN

A rendering of an aerial view of Arbor Vita.

Designed as a welcoming neighborhood rather than a traditional retirement community, Arbor Vita will feature 130 independent living apartments and 50 standalone cottages, giving residents a variety of floor plans and home sizes to fit different lifestyles. Apartment options will range from one- and two-bedroom residences to larger layouts with dens, while the cottages will offer additional space for those seeking a more residential feel. "The community will provide residents with the perfect mix of independence and connection and offer resort-style amenities, social activities and more," said Doug Feller, CEO of VOTI. "Arbor Vita will be a thoughtfully designed neighborhood that welcomes a broad range of residents seeking connection, comfort and confidence in their next chapter." Plans call for abundant green space throughout the campus, along with a scenic water feature and kayak launch, tennis and pickleball courts, a zero-entry swimming pool, dog park, golf simulator, chapel and billiards room. Residents also will have several restaurant-style dining venues offering both casual and fine dining.

Wellness will play a central role in the new community. A state-of-the-art fitness center and spa will include a sauna, hot tub, halotherapy and cold plunge, reflecting the growing demand for health-focused amenities among today's active retirees. VOTI also began construction last year on a 9,200-square-foot wellness center at its main campus, which was expected to open to residents this past summer. Residents at Arbor Vita will have access to healthcare services on site, with additional levels of care available at VOTI's main campus on South Tamiami Trail, located less than six miles away. As a nonprofit Life Plan Community, Village On The Isle offers independent living, assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing, allowing residents to transition between levels of care as their needs change. "Most retirees want a maintenance-free lifestyle that allows them to spend more time doing the things that they love," Feller said. "Arbor Vita will provide that and more." The Arbor Vita sales office is located at 901 Venetia Bay Blvd., Suite 300. Groundbreaking for the campus is anticipated in 2028, with the first residents expected to move in during 2030. S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / V E N I C E

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