West Hartford, CT May 2024

Tui Na CERTIFICATION

WORKSHOP with Dr. Wu, PH.D

June 29-30, 2024

10am - 6pm

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West Hartford

Learn how to:

• Use 9 easy acupressure lines to treat any condition.

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• Use 10 simple points to find instant relief from 10 every-day problems (knee pain, shoulder pain, headaches, hip pain, low back pain, etc.)

• Easily find Qi blockages along the 9 acupressure lines and restore Qi flow.

May

May, the month of Mother's Day, is when we here at West Hartford Lifestyle pay homage to women with our Women's Issue and look at  the myriad roles they play, as mothers, business leaders, volunteers and innovators.

For instance, we have a story this month about Jayne Dean and her business,  Connecticut Aerial Yoga, an innovated studio that offers a type of yoga that combines the traditional aspects of yoga with the aerial arts.

We also spoke with the leaders of the Junior League of Hartford, a nonprofit organization that for more than a century has promoted volunteerism and provides an array of programs to help women and promote the role of women in volunteerism.

In our Inspired By feature we have a story about the  Aurora Women and Girls Foundation which promotes the empowerment of women through a multi-faceted approach of research, community engagement, and strategic grant-making for programs that increases economic security, educational attainment, and leadership for women in the region.

In a similar vein, the Beauty Bridge Foundation, a nonprofit beauty salon, seeks to boost the spirits of women in need by providing free hair and beauty services.

Lastly, we spoke with Annisa Teich, founder of The Small Business Collective,  Coworking West Hartford, and Windsworx, about the business services she and her mother provide.

We hope you have a Happy Mother's Day and that you enjoy this issue of West Hartford Lifestyle Magazine

GARY PERRELLI, PUBLISHER

@WESTHARTFORD_LIFESTYLE

CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/WESTHARTFORD

May 2024

PUBLISHER

Gary Perrelli | gary.perrelli@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Eileen McNamara eileen.mcnamara@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Jill Barry | jill.barry@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Ivy Perrelli | ivy.perrelli@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Brian Boyer, Lucinda Jamison, Annisa Teich, Allison Bellucci

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Allison Bellucci, Michele Tereso, Lam Photography, The Flash Lady, Cheyney Barrieau, Defining Studios

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

AD DESIGNER Mary Albers

LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee

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

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1-7: The Junior League of Hartford hosted their annual Bubbly & Bites Friend-Raiser recently.

Photography by The Junior League of Hartford

8-14: The West Hartford and Glastonbury Lifestyle Magazines' Reader's Choice party at the Farmington Polo Club.

Photography by Brian Ambrose

If You Needed Assisted Living, Could You Afford It?

Long Term Care Insurance can protect you from the high cost of a Nursing Home or Assisted Living and help keep retirement on track.

Can You Afford These ANNUAL Out-Of-Pocket Costs?

Assisted Living Private Room $54,000

Home

$94,900

$108,405

Assisted Living and Nursing home, Both Semi Private and Private, Are National Median Costs.

OVER HALF of people who turned age 65 between 2015 and 2019 will have a need for LTC services.

The average length of time they will need LTC is 2 YEARS (1.5 years for men/ 2.5 years for women)

Among those who will need care, 28% are expected to incur LTC costs of more than $250,000.

For A Complimentary Quote, Call Us at 860-997-8010 or visit citylifestyle.com/hartford-ct/businesses/finance-and-legal-services/post-game-financial-2594572

business monthly

Connecticut Aerial Yoga Students Graduates Earn Level 2/Intermediate Sling

Connecticut Aerial Yoga recently gradauted a dedicated group of students to the Level 2/Intermediate sling acrobatics class. "Congragulations to this group. They have consistently shown up for drills, skills, and conditioning training each week and are ready to tackle the more demanding tricks within the Level 2 curriculum," Connecticut Aerial Yoga owner Jayne Dean said. Connecticut Aerial Yoga offers classes in aerial yoga and sling acrobatics. For more information visit ctaerialyoga.com

Scan to read more

CT Breast Health Initiative Names "Race in the Park" Co-Chairs

The CT Breast Health Initiative has named this year's co-chairs of its annual Race in the Park breast cancer fundraiser May 11. The co-chairs are: Anees B. Chagpar, Professor of Surgery at Yale School of Medicine; Liisa Kuhn, Associate Department head of Biomedical Engineering at UCONN Health, Christina Metcalf, Surgical Oncologist and Director of Breast Surgery at Saint Francis Hospital; and Jean M. Weigert, M.D., with Jefferson Radiology PC in Hartford. Visit Ctbhi.org/the-race for information.

Watkinson Basketball Teams Compete in New England Tournament

Hartford’s oldest independent day school for grades 6-12/PG, is pleased to announce that both the Girls and Boys Varsity Basketball Teams qualified for the New England Prep School Athletic Council (NEPSAC) New England Tournament. Both teams made it to the semifinals of the tournament, which was held in March. Watkinson girls won the Championship in 2023. Visit Watkinson.org for information.

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Small Businesses, Big Impact

Three Women-owned Ventures are Reshaping the Small Business Scene in Central Connecticut

Since 2017 the mother-daughter team of Annisa Teich and Annette Farese have made Central Connecticut, and West Hartford in particular, the focal point of their life and work.

Small businesses are at the heart of Annisa and Annette’s endeavors. Their family has operated an array of businesses ranging from baking to bookkeeping and even retail. With that kind of

entrepreneurship in their blood, it’s no surprise that after moving to West Hartford to start a family, Annisa’s first local business soon followed.

The Small Business Collective - a micro-business focused marketing agency provides high-level marketing strategy at a fraction of the cost of traditional agencies.

ARTICLE BY ANNISA TEICH | PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE FLASH LADY

Annette Farese

Annisa Teich

Sally Lyle, an employee of the Small Business Collective.

“I like to say we offer DIY-plus services for the smallest of businesses,” Annisa says. “We leverage platforms and programs like Squarespace, Canva, and Hubspot, that give us a great starting point and then we layer on incredible strategy, design, copywriting, operational automations and coaching to create a cohesive, consistent system that supports their growth. To top it off, we do the unthinkable in our industry… we train our clients how to use everything we’ve leveraged to support them and then hand it all off - no strings attached.”

In late 2022, Account Director Sally Lyle joined The Small Business Collective. She provides day-to-day client support and is a fixture at community events throughout the region.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to be a part of the small business community in ways that continue to surprise me,” Sally says. “We work very collaboratively with our clients and often become very close - so we act as both marketing experts implementing strategic activities and cheerleaders in the day to day trials and tribulations of their entrepreneurial lives.”

Sally recently relocated to Roanoke, Virginia where she is operating the agency’s second local hub near her hometown and already making an incredible impact on the community.

Its clients have included businesses such as Nutmeg & Honey, Harmonious Homesteads, Sally and Bob’s, Kate & Maggie Literacy Consultants, the West Hartford Gift Shop at the Noah Webster House, and West Hartford Apothecary.

The collective was founded out of West Hartford Coworking on Farmington Avenue. Founder John Vasellina opened the small space in 2016 and in 2017, Annisa took over its marketing and dayto-day operations.  By year’s end, she and Annette purchased the business and relocated it across town to the burgeoning New Park Avenue neighborhood where it remains today.

West Hartford Coworking provides a mix of space and business services essential to the growth of businesses. The community of daily coworkers and occasional guests thrives in an environment built on family-style hospitality and comfort.

“Maybe it’s the Italian-American in me, but hospitality is an important way we show love and support and we power the coworking space with that same mentality,” Annette says.

West Hartford Coworking supplies its clients with several free amenities, including high-speed Wi-Fi, copying and printing, coffee, and on-site parking. It also offers a variety of space for businesses and remote professionals, including conference rooms by the hour, private office space by the day or leases for longer-term use.

In September, the mother-daughter duo opened their second location - Windsor Worx - next to the train station in Windsor Center. The two coworking spaces now act symbiotically; clients can access both and membership levels include allowances for dual space usage.

“By encouraging movement between the two spaces within Greater Hartford, we create opportunities for West Hartford neighboring businesses to grow into the Windsor area, and vice- versa,” Annisa says.

For more information about these female, family-led organizations, visit  Thesmallbusinesscollective.com, Westhartfordcoworking.com or Windsorworx.com.

Annisa Teich and Annette Farese

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Living ◆

BEAUTY BRIDGE: Transforming Lives

HARTFORD

THE

NONPROFIT OFFERS FREE SERVICES TO WOMEN IN NEED

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALLISON BELLUCCI

Saasha Pfefka, co-owner of Beauty Bridge Foundation.

Located in the heart of Hartford, Beauty Bridge salon is more than just a hair care and beauty business — it’s a sanctuary of hope and transformation for many women.

Founded by the mother-daughter team of Saasha Plefka and Dede Caldwell, two women with a vision and passion for giving back, Beauty Bridge is rewriting the narrative of beauty and empowerment.

Beauty Bridge is a nonprofit salon that provides a variety of beauty and haircare services for women in need. Saasha and Dede, both of whom have worked in the beauty and haircare industry for many years and own their own beauty salons, developed the concept in the summer of 2020, amidst the challenges of the pandemic.

“We wanted to do more give-back work when we reopened,” Saasha recalls. “We dreamed of a nonprofit salon—a place where women in need could receive toprate services without financial barriers.”

A native of San Diego who now calls Connecticut home, Saasha shares her journey from esthetician to the driving force behind Beauty Bridge.

“I moved to Connecticut 27 years ago for my first job,” Saasha explains. “Little did I know it would lead me to this beautiful endeavor.”

Growing up in a salon environment under the guidance of her mother, Saasha was immersed in the world of beauty and compassion since childhood. Witnessing firsthand the transformative power of a simple haircut or a moment of pampering, Saasha envisioned a space where beauty wasn’t just skin deep—it was a catalyst for change.

In 2021, Beauty Bridge opened its first salon in Sarasota, Florida, followed by the second one here in Hartford. Their unique hybrid model blends profit with purpose, offering paid services alongside volunteer-driven initiatives.

“Our clients are the people who pay, and our guests are the people who are coming in for services that they’re

“Our goal is to empower these women, one transformation at a time.”

not paying for,” Saasha explains. “Our guests are coming from partner organizations like Interval House and YWCA.”

The nonprofit’s impact goes beyond haircuts and facials. Saasha recounts heartwarming moments where women, facing adversity, found solace and confidence within the salon’s walls.

“One woman said to me, ‘I feel like I don’t have to hide anymore.’ That’s the power of beauty—it’s about reclaiming one’s identity and self-worth.”

Beauty Bridge reaches women rebuilding their lives after addiction, trauma, or domestic violence.

“We see ourselves as a piece of the puzzle,” Saasha reflects. “Our goal is to empower these women, one transformation at a time.”

Central to its success is its community-driven approach. Numerous stylists and estheticians volunteer with the organization.

“Our volunteers are the heartbeat of Beauty Bridge,” Saasha says.

Saasha envisions Beauty Bridge evolving into a broader organization, one that would host workshops, classes, and events that foster creativity and connection.

“My ultimate goal, and we have seen this in our Florida location, is that some of our guests actually become clients,” Saasha adds. “Many of them are working on rebuilding their lives and don’t necessarily want free services. They

want to be able to pamper themselves, but they’re at a point where they don’t have that extra income.”

To support Beauty Bridge’s mission, Saasha encourages financial donations through their website or PayPal. Additionally, the salon accepts donations of toiletries, hair care products, purses, and all other new or lightly-used items that women would need and enjoy.

Volunteer stylists have also organized donation drives with their clients to gather essential items for those in need. Non-hairdressers can also contribute by indulging in Beauty Bridge’s pampering services, knowing that their support helps sustain the business model while making a meaningful difference in the lives of women seeking transformation and empowerment.

As Beauty Bridge continues to grow, Saasha remains grounded in her mission: to redefine beauty as a force for good. “Beauty isn’t a luxury—it’s a fundamental expression of self-worth.”

Beauty Bridge

1429 Park St, Suite 208, Hartford 860-778-3548

Online: Beautybridge.org

Email: Beautybridgehartford@gmail.com

On Facebook: @beautybridgefoundation

On Instagram: @beautybridgehartford

ARTICLE BY LUCINDA JAMISON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DEFINING STUDIOS

INVESTING IN WOMEN

The Aurora Women and Girls Foundation

A student panel at the Aurora Foundation’s Leadership Forum.

In Greater Hartford, the Aurora Women and Girls Foundation is a beacon of hope and empowerment for Connecticut women and girls.

Dedicated to catalyzing positive change by advocating for gender equality and community development, the Aurora Women and Girls Foundation has a multi-faceted approach of datadriven research, community engagement, and strategic grantmaking that increases economic security, educational attainment, and leadership for women in the region.

At the helm of Aurora is Executive Director, Jennifer Steadman, whose leadership and dedication have been instrumental in the foundation’s success. With seven years of service, Jennifer’s journey—from board member to Executive Director— underscores the passion and commitment driving Aurora’s work. Steadman shared insights into the organization’s approach to fostering empowerment by highlighting Aurora’s targeted grantmaking.

“We are so proud that by the end of 2024, $2,115,000  worth of funding will have gone directly into the community and that the Foundation has shown consistent growth since 2000,” Steadman stated.

West Hartford Mayor Shari Cantor attended the Aurora Foundation’s Luminary Event in 2023.

A recent Womens Leadership Forum.

The foundation’s commitment to educational advancement provides mentorship, financial aid, and support services to marginalized young women. Deeply invested in empowering disadvantaged women and girls, the foundation focuses on creating educational opportunities, especially for low-income single mothers and women of color, to break cycles of poverty and inequality.

Aurora-funded college success programs aim for multi-generational change by supporting women in higher education. Events like the annual Women’s Leadership Forum connect students with professionals, expanding career possibilities. The foundation’s educational initiatives extend beyond traditional realms,

including funding support programs for immigrant and refugee college students at the Hartford Public Library. By empowering women to pursue education while navigating familial and societal challenges, Aurora fosters lasting generational change.

Research remains pivotal for Aurora in understanding and addressing gender disparities. By funding comprehensive research projects and data-driven initiatives, the Foundation equips nonprofits and policymakers with the evidence-based insights needed to advocate for meaningful change. Steadman underscores the importance of research in shaping strategic priorities and amplifying the voices of marginalized communities. Aurora’s research projects inform program improvements and

The Barriers Can’t Stop Us Program at the Aurora Foundation’s Leadership Forum.

demonstrate the need for support. “Data helps make the needs of women and girls visible and impossible to ignore,” she said.

Jennifer emphasizes the critical role of philanthropy in driving social change.

May is an ideal time to spotlight Aurora’s Women’s Giving Circle, an annual event held throughout the month.” This initiative inspires women to pool their funds and make grants to innovative organizations serving women and girls in the community—a tangible way for individuals to make a difference. By harnessing the collective power of philanthropy, The Aurora Foundation fosters a sense of community and solidarity among supporters, amplifying the impact of their contributions.

“The Aurora Foundation demonstrates the influence of collective action, showing that by investing in women and girls, we invest in the future of our communities.” As Steadman aptly summarizes, “Women are so powerful in philanthropy. That’s what we hear from our students too—that’s their first impulse: How can I give back? How can I help? And I think that’s how we build stronger communities.”

Looking ahead, Aurora remains committed to advancing gender equity and fostering inclusive communities. With visionary leadership and dedicated supporters, the foundation is poised to continue its transformative work, creating a brighter future for women and girls in Greater Hartford.

Visit Aurorafoundation.org for information.

ABOUT THE AURORA FOUNDATION

• Mission: The Aurora Women and Girls Foundation leverages resources to increase economic security, education, and leadership for women and girls.

• Aurora's Women’s Giving Circle is a group of women who pool their resources to process grant money to organizations supporting women and girls in Greater Hartford.

Members of the Aurora Foundation’s Board of Directors.

Students at the foundation’s 2023 Luminary event.

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CONNECTICUT AERIAL YOGA

Traditional Yoga Meets the Aerial Arts

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHELE TERESO

Aerial yoga, a fusion between traditional yoga and the aerial arts, offers an innovative, comprehensive, and exciting practice for all.

Aerial yoga utilizes a fabric hammock suspended from the ceiling to partially, and sometimes fully, support the body in traditional and unique yoga postures.

“I’m a former gymnast so I was naturally drawn to learning and teaching aerial yoga.”

The fabric hammock, both yielding and malleable, can accommodate bodies of all sizes, shapes, and fitness levels. Aerial yoga benefits the novice and experienced, the athletic and the sedentary, the young and the old. It works in partnership with gravity to calm the nervous system, strengthen muscles, and improve flexibility.

The support of the hammock allows for spinal decompression while also promoting the general health of bone and ligament tissue. In addition to the myriad of health benefits, aerial yoga is playful and fun. The soft fabric hammock “takes our yoga into the air,” says Jayne Dean, owner of Connecticut Aerial Yoga in Hartford.

“As with traditional yoga the focus is still on connecting to yourself, softening areas of tension, going inside, and connecting to your body.”

Participants use a hammock and are suspended just a few feet off the mat, providing greater movement during yoga practice and allowing even beginners to float, flip and stretch with ease and grace. The hammock allows participants to access more advanced yoga postures, such as handstands and inversions.

“With aerial yoga you have your own hammock for the entire class. It’s adjusted to your height which allows you to customize your practice for your own body and how much effort you want to do. We Also offer a low hammock class, where the hammock is set about a foot off the floor and accessing the hammock is just a step away. Some people can get dizzy when they go upside down and the low hammock allows for grounded inversions and more stability in the yoga postures.

Low hammock aerial yoga is also a great option for anyone who has physical limitations, though it’s not necessarily easy,  it can be quite challenging but you can scale it to make it accessible to a wider range of people.”

A licensed marriage and family therapist and licensed alcohol and drug counselor, Jayne opened Connecticut Aerial Yoga in 2013. She was already a certified yoga instructor and pursued additional certification in aerial yoga after learning about it. “I’m a former gymnast so I was naturally drawn to learning and teaching aerial yoga.”

She also teaches a sling acrobats class, a more physically-demanding practice in which participants perform acrobatic skills using the hammock.

Aerial yoga, Jayne says, has numerous physical benefits, particularly for certain back ailments.“It’s great for decompressing the spine, creating spaces between your discs, you’ll leave class feeling longer. It’s weight-bearing for the upper body, it’s good for bone health and aging bodies. It’s also just fun and freeing and very accessible for beginners. It’s just great for overall fitness and improving the mindbody connection.”

Connecticut Aerial Yoga, LLC Studio Location

The 224 EcoSpace 224 Farmington Ave.,  Hartford

www.ctaerialyoga.com

860-233-4830 Ext. 6

Paula Fahy Ostop

The Junior League of Hartford

FOR MORE THAN A CENTURY THE GROUP HAS PROMOTED WOMEN AND VOLUNTEERISM

ARTICLE BY BRIAN BOYER PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE JUNIOR LEAGUE OF HARTFORD

With a rich history spanning more than a hundred years, the Junior League of Hartford is a driving force behind numerous impactful projects and initiatives aimed at enhancing the lives of people and families in the Greater Hartford area.

Founded in 1921 and based in West Hartford, the Junior League is a womens organization comprised of civic leaders committed to promoting volunteerism, developing the potential of women and improving the community through effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Guided by a vision of fostering lasting change and creating a better tomorrow, Junior League members embody the spirit of service and collaboration in all its endeavors.

“At the Junior League of Hartford, we believe in the power of collective action and the strength of our community,” says Kelly Sellew, Director of the Communications Council at the Junior League. “Through our diverse projects and initiatives, we aim to address critical issues facing our region and make a tangible difference in the lives of those we serve.”

One of the cornerstone fundraising events of the Junior League is the highly anticipated Show House event. This biennial showcase of design excellence brings together top designers, decorators and artisans to transform a notable Hartford-area residence into a stunning masterpiece. Proceeds from the Show House directly support the league’s community programs, empowering the organization to continue its vital work in addressing the impacts of systemic poverty and providing resources to local community partners who address these needs. The next Show House will be in the Spring of 2025.

The league also partners annually with select nonprofits to make meaningful impacts in the Greater Hartford region. This year, the Junior League’s civic engagement includes Journey Home’s Hand Up Program and The Diaper Bank of Connecticut. By supporting the Hand Up

Program, the group aims to provide essential furniture to individuals transitioning out of homelessness, ensuring they can furnish their new apartments with dignity.

Additionally, its involvement with The Diaper Bank of Connecticut allows it to address basic health needs by distributing diapers and supplies to mothers and families in need.

“These partnerships not only align with our mission but also offer our volunteers opportunities to make a difference in the community while creating positive experiences for all involved,” Kelly says. “We look forward to the lasting impact and meaningful connections these initiatives will bring.”

The nonprofit also hosts the Volunteer-a-Thon, an annual event that mobilizes volunteers for a day of service benefiting local nonprofits and community organizations. This year’s Volunteer-a-Thon is April 26-27th.

“The Volunteer-a-Thon is a testament to the collective impact we can achieve when we come together with a shared purpose,” Kelly says. “It’s inspiring to see our members and community partners unite to tackle pressing needs and create positive change.”

Beyond philanthropic initiatives, the league offers an invaluable opportunity for women to become catalysts for change through membership. With new member training classes held twice a year, aspiring volunteers have the chance to join a vibrant community of like-minded individuals dedicated to making a difference. Aspiring members can register for the upcoming fall new member class through the league’s website, taking the first step toward a rewarding journey of service and leadership.

Anyone interested in supporting Volunteer-a-Thon, the organization is accepting donations to fund essential supplies, resources, and outreach efforts. Interested donors can visit the Volunteer-a-Thon page on the league’s website, Hartford.jl.org, to contribute.

Through our diverse projects and initiatives, we aim to address critical issues facing our region and make a tangible difference in the lives of those we serve.

RIDGEWOOD DESIGNS

A PARTNERSHIP FOUNDED ON A SHARED LOVE OF DESIGN

For more than 25 years Leslie Ryan and Libby Gallant have been business partners and best friends.

The pair operate Ridgewood Designs, an interior design and decorating company that came about after the two women met and realized their mutual love of home decorating.

ARTICLE BY EILEEN M. MCNAMARA PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAM PHOTOGRAPHY

Today, Ridgewood Designs is a highly respected and sought-after design firm that has deep roots in West Hartford, a broad customer base and a wide network of contractors and tradesmen that Ridgewood Designs works with closely.

Leslie and Libby, both of whom have Bachelor’s degrees, work as a team throughout each project and closely with their clients and local business partners, bringing a special touch to each and every project, Leslie says.

“The benefit of having both of us, working closely together, is that we can often

see things that the client, and sometimes even the contractor, can’t see or might think of,” Libby says.

The secret to their success, Leslie adds, is simple.

“It’s our dedication to a successful client relationship through listening to what they value most.  We practice clear and transparent communication.  We infuse laughter and humor because it comes naturally to us, it puts clients at ease and builds trust. Working together for 25 years, we have seen it all!  We have been invited to clients’

“WE MAKE A GOOD TEAM THAT COVERS ALL THE BASES.”

birthday parties and family events because we have become part of their family.”

“We communicate effectively and consistently with clients,” Libby adds. “We try to anticipate clients’ needs and be proactive so they feel valued and important because they are. We have regular checkins with clients to meet their evolving needs, challenges and goals.”

The pair’s opposite personalities and skill sets also sets Ridgewood Designs apart, Leslie adds.

“We make a good team that covers all the bases.”

Those diverse talents include design and mechanical skills, maintaining client relationships, and need awareness, design theory and knowledge, classic design and trends, construction and engineering knowledge, problem solving and project management.

As business partners, the pair say, they each connect in some way to all of their diverse client base.

“Half of our clients gravitate to and connect with Libby and the other half lean toward me,” Leslie says. “There are many different personalities out there.”

While every client is unique, Ridgewood Designs has a system for how they approach each new project.

“Once we meet a new client and get to know them through conversations, concept dream boards or Pinterest pins exchange, we can begin to understand their goals and dreams,” Libby says.  “We try to make them feel at ease through our easy-going spirit and our years of experience and knowledge. We always try to give clients more than they expect.

The company’s close working relationships with local contractors and tradespeople also sets them apart from other designers, Leslie adds.

“Once we know what a project entails, we pull together our team of experienced, dependable contractors. They know we have high expectations for them and they treat each project like it was their own home.  We are the control center on every project.

“Above all we try to make each project fun and bring our different perspectives and personalities to the arena,” Libby adds.

Ridgewood Designs has an office and showroom within the Design Center in the Parkville section of Hartford.

Patrice Neidle, a former client, says Libby and Leslie have a true Yin and Yang dynamic.

“They also have a really strong work ethic and the customer service they bring to the client is amazing.”

Ridgewood Designs

Libby Gallant, Leslie Ryan

Design Source CT, 1429 Park St., Hartford

Phone: 860-559-5109

Online: Ridgewooddesigners.com

Email: Leslie@ridgewooddesigners.com

Leslie Ryan (standing), and Libby Gallant.

realty report

events

MAY 3RD

Watkinson Campus Tour

Watkinson School, 180 Bloomfied Ave., Hartford | 9:00 AM

Watkinson School will host an information session beginning at 9 a.m. with registration and refreshments. You’ll have the opportunity to meet faculty and school leaders, tour the 40-acre campus, see classes in session and hear from a panel of current students. Visit Watkinson.org for more information or to schedule a private tour.

MAY 3RD

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus

XL Center, 1 Civic Center Plaza, Hartford | 7:00 PM

The circus is coming to town!  The Ringling Bros.and Barnum & Bailey Circus kicks off Friday, May 3 and runs throughout the weekend. The immersive  entertainment experience is filled with incredible feats that push the limits of human potential. The reimagined American Icon will captivate families through a 360-degree experience that brings fans into the action.Visit Xlcenter.com/events for more information.

MAY 7TH

Reimagining Retirement

Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, 10 Columbus Blvd., Hartford | 1:00 PM

Third Age Initiative will host a Re-imagining Retirement Workshop with Ashley Rigby, Retirement Coach and Founder of Goldingage, from 1-4 p.m. Free to Third Age Initiative current participants and alumni. Prospective participants may attend on a space available basis. Visit Leadershipgh.org/third-age-initiative to learn more.

MAY 11TH

21st Annual Race in The Park

Walnut Hill Park, 184 West Main St., New Britain | 8:00 AM

The CT Breast Health Initiative’s Race in the Park returns again this year. The race is the largest fundraiser for the Connecticut Breast Health Initiative, which funds research. This year’s theme – the Power of  One – emphasizes that every individual can make a difference in the fight against  breast cancer. Visit Ctbhi.org for information or to register.

MAY 11TH

Life on the Webster Farm - From Sheep to Yarn

Noah Webster House, 227 South Main St. | 1:00 PM

Where does yarn come from? What is it used for? Our museum teachers (in 18th-century period attire) will demonstrate how to spin sheep’s wool into yarn on our reproduction spinning wheels. Want to learn how? Try your hand at “carding” the wool, or finger-spinning and using the drop-spindle. Take home a sample of the wool! Visit Noahwebsterhouse.org for more information.

MAY 18TH

Encore Performance of Madly Marvelous: A Retro Bash

The Hartford Club, 46 Prospect St., Hartford | 6:00 PM

Proceeds from this fundraiser will help keep theatre alive and bring programs to children, youth, and schools through Playhouse Theatre Academy. This year, we’re going retro (think Mad Men & The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel) which will be fully-realized through all aspects of this event. Join us as a Sponsor or Advertiser for this unforgettable evening of fine dining, dancing, live and silent auctions. Visit Playhouseonpark.org.