Westlake, OH May 2024

Celebrate The Women In Your Life

Hello and Welcome to our Ladies Issue!

I thought I would take a moment to introduce myself, I’m Kearsten Kopf, Editor of Westlake City Lifestyle Magazine. Additionally, I wear a few other hats and serve as The Director of Marketing for Kopf Builders.  I am also a professional singer. You may have seen my band, The Midtown Band, at various benefits, corporate events or festivals around Cleveland. Most importantly, I am a proud mom of 2.

May 2024

PUBLISHER

Abby Miller | abby.miller@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Kearsten Kopf | kearsten.kopf@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Michael Wypasek Photography, Kailey

Marie Photography

It’s hard to believe that it has already been seven months since I joined my dear friend Abby on this fun venture in the magazine world. Time sure flies. It’s been a great experience meeting and writing about the incredible peo ple and places that make up our local communities. Thank you for sharing with us.

I don’t know about you, but I love any opportunity to recognize the women in my life who just make life richer and more beautiful. Our mothers and daughters are some of the most influential women in our lives.

And of course, with Mother’s Day this month, all eyes are on moms… But it’s not just the biological mothers but the mother figures in our lives who have made an indelible impact on us. It’s the family members, teachers, friends and neighbors doing awesome things in our communities, pouring into our lives - making themselves unforgettable and irreplaceable.

While it’s always important to shop local and support our area businesses, this month is the perfect time to patronize businesses owned by women in our communities. That’s one of my favorite parts of this role - connecting with and championing the best of the best. You will get to meet a few in this issue.

They are movers and shakers, builders and makers. They are both seen and unseen. Their silent service blesses those who are under their care. Their attention to detail shows us something about beauty that can’t be seen or understood any other way.

I hope you’ll take a few minutes to send a text, make a phone call or get your kids on a video call with the women in your life who deserve recognition. It only takes a minute to brighten someone’s day and remind them how much you love them.

Thanks for being here.

KEARSTEN KOPF, EDITOR

@WESTLAKECITYLIFESTYLE

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

AD DESIGNER Laura Paige

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen

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

Eleanor and Hobbs Second Anniversary Fashion Show at Gordon Green in Gordon Square. Photography by Kailey Marie Photography

business monthly

Old School Pizza and Wings

Old School Pizza & Wings by Parker’s is your go-to restaurant in Rocky River, Ohio for classic American cuisine. They offer delicious pizza and wings in a fun and laid-back setting that your whole family will enjoy.

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JBJ Plumbing and Heating Solutions

JBJ Plumbing and Heating Solutions, LLC provides a full slate of HVAC and plumbing services. Savvy homeowners and business owners call with general plumbing or heating problems. Many residents prefer lasting solutions to mitigate the risk of further issues. Along with repairs, they also offer maintenance services to get the most out of the systems in your home or business.

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Whimsy Willow

Whimsy Willow offers a wide range of products for around the house, including living, kitchen & dining, candles, flowers, wood boards, charcuterie boards, tumblers, ornaments, and more! Located at Crocker Park.

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ARTICLE

HANDMADE

BREAKING BREAD

BY ANGELA BROOCKERD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

BEVERAGE

Making homemade bread is coming back, and while the convenience of buying a pre-made loaf is readily available, there is nothing like the taste of a warm, homemade loaf right out of the oven. These easy-to-follow recipes are exploding with flavor and are simple to make.

LEMON ALMOND LOAF

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 ½ cups flour

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1 cup sugar

• 1 tablespoon lemon zest

• ¾ cup milk

• ½ cup vegetable oil

• 2 eggs

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 teaspoon almond extract

LEMON GLAZE ICING:

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 2 teaspoons lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon almond extract

• 2 tablespoons sliced almonds

INSTRUCTIONS:

Preheat the oven to 350° F. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt and baking powder. In a separate bowl, combine sugar and lemon zest and lightly mix. Stir in flour mixture and set aside. In a separate bowl, mix oil, eggs, lemon juice, vanilla and almond extract. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and stir. Pour batter into a greased loaf pan and bake for 1 hour. Cool for 15 minutes and then carefully remove from the pan. Next, make the lemon glaze by combining all of the icing ingredients and whisk until smooth. Drizzle glaze all over the loaf and sprinkle with almond slices. Enjoy!

SOURDOUGH BREAD

For an added health benefit, try this probiotic-rich sourdough bread known for being easy to digest and a healthier gut-friendly option. To make sourdough bread, you will need a starter which can take anywhere from 7-14 days. To make your own, mix flour and water together in a jar and feed the starter each day until ready. There are many sourdough starter recipes online.

SOURDOUGH STARTER INGREDIENTS:

• 2 teaspoons sourdough starter

• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 5 teaspoons water

DOUGH INGREDIENTS:

• ¼ cup active sourdough starter

• 2 teaspoons salt

• 4 cups flour

INSTRUCTIONS:

Twelve hours before you plan to mix the dough, add the ingredients to make ¼ cup of active sourdough starter. Stir and cover and let the starter rise. The starter is ready when it has doubled in size and there are bubbles on the surface and sides.

To make the dough, add ¼ cup sourdough starter and 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons of water and stir. Next, add 4 cups plus 2 tablespoons of flour and 2 teaspoons of salt. Use a spatula to work the ingredients together until there are no more dry ingredients in the bowl. Wet your hand with a little water to prevent sticking, and pick up the dough on one side of the bowl and stretch it up and over itself. Turn the bowl a quarter turn and repeat this step until you have turned the bowl a full circle. Cover the bowl and let the dough sit for 30 minutes. Repeat the folding process one more time. Cover the bowl and let the dough rise on your counter for 8-10 hours.

Next, on a lightly floured surface, shape the dough into a ball by pulling the dough into the middle of itself. Turn the ball over so the seam is down. Use your hands to gently pull and cup the dough until it forms a tight skin. Place the dough on parchment paper and transfer the paper and dough to a medium sized bowl. Cover the bowl and let it rise for 2 hours.

Preheat the oven to 450°F. Score the top of dough with a sharp knife. Use the parchment paper to lift the dough up and transfer to a dutch oven. Place the lid on and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the lid and bake for an additional 30 minutes or until golden brown.

Discover the ultimate sanctuary for wellness seekers at Spa Kalahari & Salon. Book your appointment today and embark on a journey to serenity and renewal.

Massages • Facials • Nail Care • Halotherapy Salt Room • NEW! Sauna

SpaKalahari.com • 419.433.7900

• Located at Kalahari Resorts & Conventions

L A D I ES

Women are an incredible source of inspiration in the business world. We are excited to feature three local women whose success stories will certainly empower others to pursue their dreams. With innovative thinking and a strong work ethic, they have, without a doubt, sparked positive change locally.

LEADINGTHEWAY

WOMEN TO WATCH IN BUSINESS WHILE MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN OUR LOCAL COMMUNITIES

ARTICLE

BY KEARSTEN KOPF | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL WYPASEK PHOTOGRAPHY

Melinda Hess

K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel

Melinda Hess along with her husband Brian, have opened K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel in North Olmsted.

The decision to open the business was an obvious choice as avid dog lovers, they realized the need for people to board their animals with peace of mind.

The K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel is the ultimate destination for dog owners, seeking a luxurious and unforgettable experience.

Melinda understands the importance of providing your four-legged family members with the very best care and attention. With a team of experienced dog handlers and trainers, the resort offers a range of activities to suit every dog’s personality and energy level.

The K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel is the ultimate destination for dog owners, seeking a luxurious and unforgettable experience for their furry companion. Since K9 Resorts’ opening in January, they have hit the ground running. Every day brings a new and fun adventure. There are boarding options for 150 dogs and 75 openings for daycare.

With its unparalleled facilities, personalized activities and top-notch care, they truly understand the needs and desires of your beloved pets. Book your dog’s getaway today at K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel and unleash their paradise. www.k9resorts.com/northolmsted  or call 440-793-7888.

Melinda Hess - K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel

Rachel Drolett

YogaSix

A year ago, Rachel and her husband Chris were burnt out from their corporate careers in the tech industry. With layoffs happening that was the catalyst they needed to embark on a new adventure. Yoga was something they loved doing together, so it was an easy decision when they found Xponential Fitness and its yoga brand, YogaSix. Rachel, a North Olmsted native, and Chris own and operate YogaSix Fairview Park as a local small business, but also get the backing of the largest global franchisor of health and wellness brands. Rachel loves hearing straight from students who are brand new to yoga or even seasoned yogis, how YogaSix has created positive experiences both physically and mentally in their everyday lives. YogaSix is different as they don’t use Sanskrit or burn incense. Instead, they offer a fresh take on traditional yoga practices that are energizing, empowering, and fun!  YogaSix delivers six core classes: Y6 101, Y6 Restore, Y6 Power, Y6 Slow Flow and Y6 Sculpt & Flow.  At YogaSix Fairview Park, “we want a studio where everyone of all backgrounds can practice yoga in a safe and accessible way. We have a flavor for everyone!” YogaSix is changing the way people think and experience yoga.

Rachel Drolett - YogaSix

Sarah Kutz

Realtor with Howard Hanna

Meet Sarah Kutz, a Realtor with Howard Hanna who goes beyond the ordinary to provide exceptional service. With a sharp focus on individual goals, meticulous attention to detail, and a love of all things Home, Sarah sets a new standard in the world of real estate.

For many, the decision to become a realtor is more than just a career choice— it’s a calling rooted in a desire to connect with people on a profound level. This was certainly the case for Sarah, whose journey into real estate was driven by a deepseated passion for forging meaningful relationships and guiding individuals through one of life’s most significant decisions.

In a competitive industry where transactions often overshadow relationships, Sarah stands as a beacon of authenticity, empathy, and dedication in the realm of real estate. By embracing her role as a trusted advisor to guide clients through one of life’s biggest decisions, she meticulously examines every aspect of a transaction, leaving nothing to chance to ensure an error-free experience for her clients.

Sarah redefines what it means to be an exceptional realtor and will be there every step of the way, offering support, guidance, and expertise to ensure her clients’ peace of mind.

Sarah Kutz - Realtor Howard Hanna

ELEANOR AND HOBBS

ARTICLE BY KEARSTEN KOPF | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KAILEY MARIE PHOTOGRAPHY

A Curated Collection of Contemporary Fashion

I had the pleasure of chatting with Tracy Hobbs, the founder and owner of Eleanor and Hobbs, an elevated women’s clothing boutique in Rocky River. Tracy, a Westlake native, opened her doors in Rocky River in February of 2022. Her goal was to create a community where like-minded women who enjoy fashion can come together to shop, laugh, share their lives.

"Small businesses have the power to create a ripple effect of positive change within their communities". When people shop with a small business that is engaged within the community, everyone benefits. At Eleanor and Hobbs, they tend to support local charities that their clients support and are involved with.

Last month, E+H held their second anniversary fashion show at Gordon Green in Gordon Square. The proceeds benefited Providence House, Cleveland's first and longest-operating crisis nursery serving children and families all over Northeast Ohio. With over 250 guests in attendance the night was full of amazing fashion and incredible women coming together to support a greater cause. The event was a group effort. The E+H team utilized over 10 other local small businesses to pull off the event, from caterers, photographers, wine vendors, videographers, and more. All of the models were clients and local small business owners who are invested in the success of the business. It was the epitome of women supporting women.

Eleanor and Hobbs takes pride in offering a carefully curated collection of contemporary fashion, sourced from well-known and local designers. Each season, Tracy and her buying team travel to New York and Los Angeles to scour the markets for the latest trends and emerging designers. They work tirelessly to build a collection of clothing, jewelry, and accessories that will resonate with their Cleveland clients. They chose timeless lifestyle pieces and relevant new styles to help their clients build their wardrobe to fit their lifestyle.

From high end brands to moderate price points, there truly is something for everyone.  Whether you are trying to build your wardrobe or are just dipping your toe into fashion, their team of stylists will help you hone your style.  They pay close attention to how and where pieces are made, sustainability practices, and price to offer their clients the best product on the market. They are the antithesis of fast fashion. Most of their pieces are well made in the United States by sustainable companies trying to produce a quality product.

It’s so important to support small businesses as they add character and diversity to the community. Eleanor and Hobbs offers unique products and services that reflect the needs and desires for women in the local area. The customer service at Eleanor and Hobbs is nextlevel. They really take the time to get to know their customers and build relationships.

If you are a shopper, or love fashion, you might want to stop by Eleanor and Hobbs to see what the buzz is about. Bring a girlfriend and enjoy a glass of champagne while you’re shopping. You can also visit them online at shopeleanorandhobbs.com .

SUMMER Sizzles STYLE 5

Discover the Hottest Fashion Trends

ARTICLE BY KEARSTEN KOPF

1. OVERSIZED BLAZERS : A stylish way to add structure to any outfit.

2. BIKE SHORTS: Comfortable and versatile.

3. STATEMENT SLEEVES :

Puff sleeves, bishop sleeves, and bell sleeves are popular choices.

4. PASTEL COLORS:

Soft and soothing colors like lavender, mint green, and baby blue are in vogue this season.

5. CHUNKY SANDALS :

Chunky platform sandals or slides are a comfortable yet trendy addition.

GARDEN TO GLASS

DIY COCKTAILS WITH FRESH HERBS

Nothing says spring like the aroma of fresh-cut herbs in a crisp, cold, cocktail. With warmer weather finally here, growing herbs at home can transform your cocktail hour and add a fresh kick to your springtime favorites.

Growing herbs is incredibly easy and can be done in a variety of ways—from a container in a window, to a planter box in the yard. With a container or garden full of fresh herbs, you will be ready to take your cocktails up a notch.

Basil is a bright herb that is easy to grow and perfect for cocktails. Make sure to harvest immediately before mixing drinks and take leaves from the top to ensure a continual harvest. Fresh muddled basil leaves lend a crispness to the Gin Basil Cucumber cocktail.

Sage is easy to grow and does well in containers. The leaves add an earthy freshness to a refreshing cherry-infused Bourbon.

Mint is also easy to grow, but give it lots of room, as it likes to spread out and is virtually indestructible in the garden. Mint is a versatile herb but is especially lovely in the Rhubarb Mint Mojito.

Try recreating these refreshing cocktails with herbs grown at home and take your cocktail game to new heights!

ARTICLE BY TARA NORRIS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADALYN SINCLAIR

MR. BROWN INGREDIENTS

• 2 oz. cherry-sage infused Bourbon

• 0.75 oz. apple brandy or apple jack brandy

DIRECTIONS

• Place over an ice ball in an old-fashioned glass

• Top with ginger beer and garnish with Bordeaux cherries and leaf of sage

RHUBARB MINT MOJITO

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 oz. white rum

• 1 oz. rhubarb puree (2 cups rhubarb, 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup water)

• 0.5 oz. fresh lime juice

• 8-10 fresh mint leaves

• soda water

• lemon-lime soda

• ice

DIRECTIONS:

• Muddle mint, lime juice, and rhubarb puree in a glass or small cocktail shaker

• Once muddled, add the white rum and ice

• Top with large cocktail shaker and shake for a few seconds

• Remove large shaker and pour everything into a glass

• Top with more ice

• Add soda water and lemon-lime soda (equal parts to your liking)

• Garnish with mint leaf and lime wheel

GIN BASIL CUCUMBER

INGREDIENTS

• 2-3 fresh basil leaves

• 0.5 oz. fresh lime juice

• 0.25 oz. simple syrup

• 2-3 cucumber slices

• 2 oz. gin

• tonic water

DIRECTIONS

• Muddle basil, lime juice, simple syrup and cucumber slices together in a small cocktail shaker

• Add gin and ice to cocktail shaker

• Shake well

• Strain over an ice ball

• Top with tonic water and garnish with basil leaf and a cucumber slice

MAY 1ST

Local Wellness Days

Spa Kalahari | 9:00 AM

WEDNESDAY | $10 OFF any 50-minute or 80-minute massage. Take a break from your daily routine and start small, by adding one sprinkle of self-care, self-love and self-discovery to your stressful week. Ask about daily specials. (419) 433-7900 | Or text "RELAX" to (419) 549-5210

MAY 4TH

Youth Challenge

The Aviator Event Center and Pub | 7:00 PM

YC’s Annual Benefit & Auction is the largest fundraiser of the year, typically raising more than $200,000 in vital funding for YC programming. The event includes delicious food, an open bar, live entertainment, and an exciting fund-a-need program.

MAY 5TH

Hope Heals Inflatable Event

Crocker Park 177 Market St Westlake, OH 44145 | 9:00 AM

Hope Heals will feature five giant inflatable teddy bears that will pop up all across property at Crocker Park from April 26th through May 5th. The 10’-20′ tall inflatable teddy bears will create a colorful and joyful experience for countless visitors.

MAY 12TH

Kalahari Mother's Day Brunch

Kalahari Convention Center, Rivers Ballroom | 10:00 AM

Annual Mother’s Day Brunch Buffet featuring all Mom’s breakfast favorites, mouthwatering chef-carved meats, and an overwhelming spread of irresistible sweet treats. From made-to-order omelets to our crepe action station, treat your leading lady to an unforgettable celebration. Don't forget to grab the family for picture-perfect moments at our photo-op station!

MAY 18TH

Island Troy

The Aviator Event Center and Pub | 6:00 PM

Fine dining, drinks, airplanes and Island Troy either in the pub, rooftop, or patio. Acoustic island music from favorites like Jimmy Buffett, Van Morrison, Zac Brown.

MAY 28TH

Princess/Superhero Dress-Up Party

West Park at Crocker Park 287 Crocker Park Blvd Westlake, OH 44145 | 11:00 AM

All events will feature:

• Fun Music

• Exhibitor Tables with activities + giveaways

• FREE snacks

• Other activities vary by event: face painting, balloon twister, magician, animal entertainer, glitter tattoos, musical entertainment, mascots from various organizations + much more!

No Matter What You Drive