Winter Garden, FL September 2023

Our Cover Story:

Meet the New Football Coach at The First Academy

SEPTEMBER 2023

BEAUTY

THE KEYS TO BELLA LINA CRUZ SALON’S SUCCESS

ARTS + CULTURE CREATING LIVING ART WITH MOSS

HOME + DESIGN THE LATEST IN INTERIOR DESIGN TRENDS

R E A L E S T A T E R E P O R T

A detailed look into the area's most recent sales for July year over year WINTER

$384K

$256 99.6% 23

Bridge Loans. What Are They?

A bridge loan provides you with the necessary funds to make the down payment on the new home while you are still in the process of selling your current home This allows you to proceed with the purchase without waiting for your current home to sell first Once your old home is sold, you can use the proceeds to repay the bridge loan It's essential to consider the terms and interest rates of the bridge loan before making this decision, as they can be higher than traditional mortgages due to their short-term nature All things considered, a Bridge Loan provides quick access to funds and flexibility in the new transaction and could be an excellent option if you are looking to purchase a new home before selling your current property Bridge financing options are available for primary residence, investment, and second homes

Questions? I would love to provide personalized advice based on your financial goals and circumstances Scan the QR code to connect

tiffany@alignagents com (407) 707-8311

ALIGNagents com

@TiffanyPantozzi

ASK THE LENDER

Q: Will a bridge loan allow me to make a noncontingent offer?

A: Yes, a bridge loan allows a non-contingent offer on a new home, making the purchase more appealing to sellers by reducing the risk of the deal falling through due to delays or complications with the sale of your current property

Q: What are some of the terms of a Bridge Loan?

A: At UMortgage, we offer one of the most competitive Bridge Loan options available which includes 12 months to repay with NO monthly payment! Simply access equity in your current property to use for the down payment on a new home

Q: What is the difference between a Bridge Loan and a Home Equity Line of Credit?

A: A Bridge Loan is a short-term loan used to facilitate the purchase of a new property before selling an existing one, while a Home Equity Line of Credit is a revolving credit line based on the equity in a current home that can be used for various purposes over an extended period Mortgage Loan Officer NMLS 2285340

(561) 716-5250

tcostanza@umortgage com

Dress Your Age They Say!

As we grow older, it is natural for our tastes to evolve and for us to develop a sense of individuality. Over the years, I have experimented with various fashion trends and styles, trying to find what truly resonates with me. It has been an exciting journey of self-discovery, and I am thrilled to say that I have finally found my personal style.

At this stage of my life, comfort and confidence are paramount to me. I have come to appreciate clothing that not only looks good but also allows me to move freely and feel at ease. I think many have adopted this style following our COVID outfits. I have embraced a more relaxed and casual approach to fashion, favoring well-fitted jeans, tanks, chunky heels, and versatile sneakers.

Moreover, I have learned the art of mixing classic and contemporary pieces to create a style that is both timeless and trendy. By staying true to my own preferences and adding personal touches, I have found a style that is uniquely mine.

Discovering my personal style has not only boosted my confidence but also brought me a sense of joy and authenticity. It reflects who I am at this point in my life, and it allows me to embrace my age with grace and flair.

It is never too late to explore different fashion choices and find what truly speaks to you. Embrace your individuality, experiment with different looks, and remember to have fun along the way.

Wishing you all the best in your own style journey whatever age you are.

Warm regards,

September 2023

PUBLISHER

Sabrina Serrano | sabrina.serrano@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Andy Cingolani | andy.cingolani@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Janie Jones, Dawn Aiello Photography

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Angela Broockherd

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Josh Govero

LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray

SABRINA SERRANO, PUBLISHER @WINTERGARDENCITYLIFESTYLE

Learn

Proverbs 3:5-6

business monthly

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Luxury, Upscale Cruise Packages from Expedia Cruises

Luxury travel purveyor, Adventures by Design - powered by Expedia Cruises , is offering an Expediaexclusive Freestyle Sale for its VIP clients! Includes free open bar, excursions, specialty dining and Wi-Fi, as well as pre-paid gratuities and kids sail FREE. Plus, every booking will receive an opulent and overstuffed bag, including high-end CrossKix hybrid footwear. Sale runs from September 11 to 17. Available for select 7-night+ Norwegian sailings! For more information, visit adventuresbydesign.com/VIP

Special Promo on Private Luxury Charter Flights

KW Executive Air Charters is offering a special promotion to all travelers who book a flight out of Orlando Executive Airport. Simply book your flight by October 31 and receive a catered gourmet meal for your entire party at no additional cost. A unique travel experience, flights are available from Orlando to locations all over North America, Central America, and the Caribbean at a reasonable price. For info, call 407-434-1900 or visit kweac.com

Chick’nCone Opens New Location in The Hamlin

West Orange residents will now be able to enjoy the popular fast-food chain, Chick’nCone , just a short drive away in The Hamlin. The Pennsylvania based chain, which has expanded to locations across the U.S. held its grand opening in July. Guests can choose from four main dishes – the Chick’nCone, chicken tenders, chicken sandwiches, and a chicken bowl – with a variety of sauces available. For more information, call 407-217-2968 or visit chickncone.com .

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/WinterGarden

Photography Dawn Aiello Photography

local experiences

Everyone loves a closet refresh and stylish scene, so we’ve rounded up some of our picks for the most sophisticated and fashionable destinations that will have you feeling renewed as well as ready for the camera.

Our Picks for The Style Scene

DOXOLOGY: Find your new favorite handbag! Spend an afternoon exploring their carefully curated collections for your next ‘must have’ item. 49 South Main Street Winter Garden, FL WINDERMERE NAILS & SPA: Get a manicure, enjoy some well-deserved pampering, and immerse yourself in this salon’s luxury environment. 4848 S Apopka Vineland Rd #210, Orlando, FL

THE GROVE: Go for the shopping and stay for the experience at Windermere’s one-stop shopping destination, with new stores opening monthly. 47004876 South Apopka Vineland Road Windermer, FL

THE ORLANDO BRIGHTLINE: Ride in style! The Brightline Train Station inside OIA is a game-changer for travelers seeking a comfortable, convenient way to travel between Orlando and Miami. 10705 Jeff Fuqua Blvd, Orlando, FL ROSEN CENTRE HOTEL: Celebrate women from around the globe and watch the crowning of this year’s International Ms at the 2023 International Ms Pageant! September 2-3, 2023 9840 International Dr, Orlando, FL

MEET THIS MONTH’S CURATOR

Tiffany Pantozzi | @tiffanypantozzi

Tiffany Pantozzi was born and raised in Miami and has been an Orlando resident for over ten years.  After earning her Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing and Advertising from Miami International University, Tiffany went on to create a nationally recognized collegiate and professionally licensed sports apparel company and operated it successfully through 2015.  A naturally social person with extensive knowledge of the local lifestyle, amenities, and history of Central Florida, her reputation as a skillful negotiator and relentless advocate differentiates her from the competition. Now a successful REALTOR, Tiffany always gets the job done and does so with a smile.

The Grove

The best places and things to do in our area.

Painting With Moss

Mickey McClain creates a new style of living art made from moss

Studies have shown that being around plants – in fact, simply looking at images of plants – produces positive psychological effects, like stress reduction and improved concentration. Similarly, research in color psychology has shown that the color green can help people feel calmer and less stressed due to its association with nature.

To Mickey McClain, owner of The Plantologist, it's more of a creative outlet working with a medium he enjoys. However, he has done his research. For one of his clients, located in downtown Orlando, he was able to convey how his art can be good for business.

“I was in their office looking around and I told the owner, ‘Hey, you don't have a single plant in your office. You need plants and I promise you that your productivity level will increase,’” he said. “Studies show that bringing plants into an office increases workplace productivity because

it makes people happier. They feel more relaxed. Plus, plants increase oxygen levels and purify the air. It's just healthier for everybody.”

That conversation led to one of his many installations around Central Florida and throughout the state.

Mickey's family has a history of entrepreneurship. His mother owns the largest interior-scape company in Orlando, which is how he developed his love for plants. However, he realized his passion was more creative so he married his love of plants with his artistic side and started working mostly with moss.

“No one had really done this before, and it just seemed so weird to everyone, but I just kept doing it. I've always been an artist. I was into painting, pottery and all kinds of stuff. Finally, when I started putting plants and moss on walls, it felt like I was doing paintings and sculpture and it just felt right. I really enjoy it.”

Mickey McClain, The Plantologist

BY THE PLANTOLOGIST

Three Perspectives on Interior Design

MEET SAM BAKER, MARILOU STONES, AND SHALEA MADORIN

ARTICLE BY ANDY CINGOLANI

For our Style issue, we put together a panel of successful interior designers working in Central Florida, each with their own area of focus, and asked them to talk about what’s going on in the world of interior design.

SAM BAKER Inspired Home Renovation MyInspiredHome.com

With 25 years of experience in interior design, Sam Baker it’s an independent, boutique firm specializing in renovations of luxury homes. She works throughout Central Florida and is based in Winter Park.

There’s a lot of focus on LEED-certified homes that are designed for wellness and embracing nature. Sustainable design is something a lot of people are looking for. Selecting materials that are sustainably manufactured toward not putting off toxic gases. Also, we use a lot of recycled materials. There’s a lot of focus on smart technology and battery backups

DeVore Design

or battery power walls. I wouldn’t call it a trend. It’s more been a buildup to something that’s going to be around for a long time.

I’m seeing more natural colors coming in, more natural woods versus white. People want their homes to be relaxing and calm, kind of an oasis for themselves. That’s where the “design” part comes in. For example, Cambria manufactures quartz used in countertops. Their factories, which are all in the U.S., recycle their water, and they use a lot of water to create countertop slabs. It’s better for the environment and a lot of my clients are specifically looking for that.

MARILOU STONES

Stones Design LLC

stonesdesignllc.com

Stones Design was founded by Marilou Stones. She is an award-winning and international designer with 36 years of experience and is licensed in the State of Florida and a member of the American Society of Interior Designers. Marilou’s main area of focus is working with new construction.

For a while now, people still prefer clean lines that have a simplicity to their look. Old world, ornate décor – “goopy,” as I like to call it – very decorative architecture, furniture, and window treatments are not what people want. It’s been cleaned up to be just straight lines, with gray and white still the colors of choice.

I tell my clients, though, just because the popular colors are gray and white doesn’t mean that that’s what you need to do. Not everybody starts with a clean slate. They have to work with whatever they have. And I tell my clients they have to be comfortable in the home or they won’t be happy with the results.

SHALEA MADORIN

DeVore

Design

DeVoreDesign.com

After working as a REALTOR for several years, Shalea Madorin discovered that her true passion was in staging homes to be put on the market. In 2017, she started a business dedicated to home staging. She joined DeVore Design in 2020.

Stones Design LLC

As a real estate agent, I always found the negative feedback buyers had on properties very interesting. Usually, it involved easy fixes that they could have done before we got there. It always surprised me that a lot of people didn’t know how to accentuate the features of the home itself. The buyer’s eyes were going to things that were more personal in the home and not actually what the selling features are of the property. So I started having those

tough conversations with sellers and found that I enjoyed it. Before long, other agents started asking me for help.

For example, big vacant houses feel cold and it’s hard for buyers to connect with that. So you want to bring in textures and furniture that they can see themselves sitting in, watching TV. And sometimes there are weird floor plans that a buyer will walk in and say, “I have no idea. What do we do with this space?” Staging the home properly helps them see themselves in it.

“I’m seeing more natural colors coming in, more natural woods versus white. People want their homes to be relaxing and calm, kind of an oasis for themselves.”

Stones Design LLC

Sam Baker, Inspired Home Renovation

Shalea Madorin, DeVore Design

Earthy. True. Timeless. Elegant.

At ette hotel, they’re redefining what it means to be a luxury-style hotel

ARTICLE BY ANDY CINGOLANI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ETTE HOTEL

In a city like Orlando, when you set a goal to create a new type of luxury hotel experience, it can be a challenge to stand out among the crowd. At ette hotel in Kissimmee, however, that is exactly what they’ve accomplished… a unique environment unlike any other in Central Florida.

According to Amado Bobadilla, ette’s general manager, every possible detail that affects the guest experience was examined and rethought, from the building design, to the amenities in the rooms and throughout the hotel, to how the guests are welcomed and pampered throughout their stay.

“Everybody knows that the main reason people come here is to visit the theme parks,” Amado says. “Even though we are right next to Walt Disney World Resort, we offer a restful retreat from the theme park craziness. Visiting the theme parks is fun but also exhausting. As soon as you walk through the front door at our hotel, all that changes and you’re brought into a place of restfulness, a place where you can breathe easily.”

At ette hotel, their focus is on so much more than simply providing their guests a place to sleep while visiting the area. The goal, Amado says, is to attend to the guests’ overall physical, mental, and spiritual wellness during their stay.

“The hotel’s name, ette, is an acronym that stands for earthy, true, timeless, and elegant,” he says. “Those are the four pillars upon which this entire concept was built. It’s reflected in the quality of the materials that we use, the way we treat our guests, even the linens. When they arrive, our guests are greeted by a 35-year-old olive tree, which represents friendship and goodwill. As soon as you walk in, for example, you notice a really clean, natural, uplifting scent that permeates the entire building. That’s the whole idea behind our property.”

As you might expect, an important part of the ette hotel experience is the elegant dining guests enjoy there, particularly at Salt & The Cellar. Led by renowned chef Akira Bach, the menu breathes new life into traditional Mediterranean cuisine. Born in Korea, Chef Bach was raised in Colorado and had a successful career as a professional snowboarder, before beginning his culinary career in the early 2000s. In 2008, he opened his first restaurant, Yellowtail, at the Bellagio in Las Vegas. His accolades include earning a Michelin star for his restaurant, Dosa, in Seoul, South Korea.

According to Amado, it’s all part of their overall mission to create an amazing hotel experience based on wellness for their guests.

“We want this to be an oasis of calm in the midst of the craziness of the theme parks. Yes, we’re very close to the Disney theme parks, the closest five-star hotel in fact. But that’s where the connection stops. So you can go to our rooftop bar and watch the Magic Kingdom’s fireworks, which are truly spectacular from that view, then have a peaceful place to relax. A place where you can breathe and be still.”

For more information about ette hotel, visit their website at ettehotels.com

Welcome to Central Florida, Coach!

AFTER YEARS OF SUCCESS IN ARKANSAS, COACH JEFF CONAWAY

BRINGS HIS UNIQUE STYLE OF EXCELLENCE TO THE FIRST ACADEMY

ARTICLE BY ANDY CINGOLANI PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE FIRST ACADEMY

Since 1987, The First Academy in Orlando has been providing Christian-based education to students from kindergarten through high school, excelling in a wide range of academics. An important part of the school's role in the community is its athletic programs, and like most high schools in Florida, football is one of the highest-profile sports in the TFA community. This summer, TFA welcomed a new head football coach, Jeff Conaway, who has been successful and won state championships in Arkansas. Recently, Coach Conaway took some time to visit with Winter Garden City Lifestyle

FIRST, WELCOME TO CENTRAL FLORIDA! COMING IN AS A NEW HEAD VARSITY FOOTBALL COACH, WHAT IS YOUR APPROACH TO MAKING THE TRANSITION SUCCESSFUL?

My approach is mostly about relationship building. When you truly care about people and you truly want to help people improve and just become better, I think building relationships is easy. It's fun and it's genuine. I love being with people. I love helping young people succeed. I love coming around parents and partnering with them.

WHAT MAKES IT SO REWARDING FOR YOU?

When you've got a system that is proven and you know that it works and you can implement it and the players can see that it's working. That invigorates me and makes me excited to come to work every day. Today in the weight room, our guys were just over-the-top energetic, and the first day I was in there, we couldn't even get them to talk. But today they're lifting, they're sweating, they're clapping their hands, they're encouraging their teammates, they're getting loud, they're getting excited. And that's what I'm trying to do.

WITH ALL THE SUCCESS YOU HAD IN ARKANSAS, WHAT MOTIVATED YOU TO TAKE THE JOB AT THE FIRST ACADEMY?

Five years ago, we started coming to Orlando, and in 2019 I brought the team here to play a game. I believe in a higher

power and I have a relationship with Jesus. Now, looking back, it feels like God was preparing our hearts for a new home. I still don't have it all figured out, but we certainly believe that God brought us here.

IN YOUR MIND, WHAT MAKES THE FIRST ACADEMY UNIQUE AND SPECIAL?

I think if anyone were to ask a parent, what do you want for your kids, well, we want them first to be in a safe environment. TFA has that. This is an incredible campus and the safety here is phenomenal. I'm going to feel really good about my kids being here. The second thing is, what do we want our kids to learn? I want to know what my kids are being taught. I'm a man of faith and I believe in the Bible. I want my kids to learn what the Bible says. I want them to have that biblical worldview. And when they leave high school, I don't

CONTINUED >

“We brought Coach Conaway here to push towards competitive excellence AND develop strong leaders and disciple-makers. I believe he’ll raise the standard of our student-athletes by focusing on the process and preparing them for whatever God calls them to be.”

- Will Cohen, Athletics Director

want them to be thrust into a world where they don't know the right or the wrong way to live. TFA provides that.

OF COURSE, IT'S STILL EARLY, BUT WHAT KIND OF RESPONSE ARE YOU GETTING FROM THE TFA COMMUNITY?

Change is hard for everybody and we certainly have changed some things, but I do believe the overwhelming experience I've seen is excitement. We're creating some structure that maybe we didn't have. The kids are spending more time working. They're wearing the correct dress code They're putting their toes on the correct line. And I think the overwhelming feeling that I get is that they're excited.

CLEARLY, THIS IS A MAJOR MOVE IN YOUR CAREER AND THERE WERE PROBABLY SOME DIFFICULT TIMES. IS THERE A MOMENT YOU CAN RECALL THAT SHOWED YOU THAT YOU MADE THE RIGHT DECISION?

I had some days where I cried like a baby in my car, in the hotel parking lot just by myself because my family was still in Arkansas and I was lonely. I thought, what have I done? I just left the best

part of my life in Springdale, Arkansas. On perhaps the worst day I was having, one of my former players from Shiloh Christian was in Orlando and texted me and says, “Coach, can I come see you?” And in about 10 minutes he was standing in the lobby of my hotel. This is a young man that I discipled. He was a knucklehead as a ninth grader, but as a senior, he might have been the most spiritually sound and mature kid that I've ever coached. Well, he shows up at my hotel and it was almost like an Old Testament prophet. He came in and put his arms around me and he prayed over me and he encouraged me. And he said, “Coach, you're doing the right thing. You changed our lives in Arkansas and God's brought you here to change the lives of these kids. Don't you ever look back.”

THAT HAD TO MAKE YOU FEEL GREAT.

I was just blown away. And there were a lot of those moments, when I was confused, frustrated, maybe even a little disappointed, and God either spoke through someone else or through circumstance to tell me, “Just hang on because what I have for you is really, really good.”

SELFIES CAN BE HEALTHY!

Celebrate your healthy decisions and you could win some great prizes!

Yes, you read that right! Before I explain, let me introduce myself. The name’s Westly! I’m the community cheerleader with Healthy West Orange; a local nonprofit that has the mission to inspire West Orange to become the healthiest community in the nation! I’m here to spread the word about local health and wellness resources, events, and activities!

Now, about this selfie business. Did you know that a big part of goal-setting, and achieving those goals, is celebrating accomplishments? Here at Healthy West Orange, we believe that snapping a “healthy selfie” can not only inspire yourself to stay healthy, but can also inspire our community.

Did you know that a big part of goal-setting, and achieving those goals, is celebrating accomplishments? That’s why we’ve named September “Healthy Selfie” month! We celebrate all month long, and you’re invited!

That’s why we’ve named September “Healthy Selfie” month! We celebrate all month long, and you’re invited!

Give yourself a pat on the back when you eat that healthy meal, get active for 30 minutes a day, or write in your gratitude journal. Small decisions can add up to BIG results that benefit your health for years to come. That’s why we love when folks snap a healthy selfie and share it with us, so we can cheer them on and celebrate alongside them!

You may be wondering: what counts as a “healthy selfie.” It’s a snapshot of the ways you like to stay healthy. That could be cooking with your kids, walking your dog, swimming, hiking, gardening, biking, yoga, sports… Heck, even mowing the yard works! And what about mental well-being? Quality time with friends and family, meditation, learning a new skill… those can be used for healthy selfies too.

So, I’m challenging you, yes YOU reading this! Snap a healthy selfie this month. You deserve to prioritize your health and feel proud of it! Need some inspiration? Take a look at these amazing photos sent in by West Orange community members as they celebrated Healthy Selfie Month with us over the years! And if you'd like to see even more, check out the online version of this article at citylifestyle.com/wintergarden.

In fact, if you send in your photo to selfie@healthywestorange.org or post it on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram using #healthyselfie and @healthywestorange before September 14, you’ll have the chance to WIN a sweet grand prize basket full of theme park tickets, gift cards, and more!

Alright, that’s all for me, folks! See ya around! - Westly

events

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

Winter

Garden Farmers Market

DOWNTOWN WINTER GARDEN, 104 S LAKEVIEW AVE, WINTER GARDEN, FL

| 8:00 AM TO 1:00 PM

The Winter Garden Farmers Market is your hometown market open every Saturday from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm in beautiful Historic Downtown Winter Garden. You’ll find a wide variety of products and vendors, including fresh produce, plants and flowers, herbs, baked goods, artisan crafts, and local food and beverages. WinterGardenFarmersMarket.com

SEPTEMBER

1ST-30TH

FREE community 5K with Healthy West Orange!

CHAPIN STATION, 501 CROWN POINT CROSS RD, WINTER GARDEN, FL | 12:00 AM

From September 1-30, bike, walk, swim, run, or even skateboard 3.1 miles at your own pace, in your own way, wherever you like. Groups can participate on Saturday, September 9 at 7:30 a.m. at Chapin Station along the West Orange Trail! All ages, strollers, and even pups are welcome. FREE T-shirt and medal at the finish line! Register at HWOEvents.org

SEPTEMBER 8TH-10TH

Anniversary of “Figurehead: Music & Mayhem in Orlando’s Underground”

ORANGE COUNTY REGIONAL HISTORY CENTER, 65 E CENTRAL BLVD, ORLANDO, FL

The Orange County Regional History Center is celebrating the one-year anniversary of its nationally award-winning exhibition Figurehead: Music & Mayhem in Orlando’s Underground with Figurehead Encore Weekend, September 8 – 10. The exhibition tells the story of how Orlando concert promoter Figurehead invigorated the music scene in Central Florida in the 1980s and ’90s. TheHistoryCenter.org

SEPTEMBER 8TH-24TH

Every Brilliant Thing

GARDEN THEATRE, 160 W PLANT ST, WINTER GARDEN, FL | TIMES VARY

In Every Brilliant Thing, John O’Hurley (J. Peterman on Seinfeld) leads audiences through a remarkable journey that examines what makes life worth living, and the power of theatre to bring people together. O’Hurley draws audience members into the story collaboratively to weave a message of hope by focusing on life’s small joys and our love for others. GardenTheatre.org

SEPTEMBER 22ND

West Orange vs. Jones – High School Football

WEST ORANGE HIGH SCHOOL, 1625 BEULAH RD, WINTER GARDEN, FL | 7:00 PM

Come out and cheer the Warriors of West Orange High School on to victory as they take on the Jones High School Fightin’ Tigers. Last season, the Warriors lost a tight road game against Jones, who went all the way to the state semifinals. This promises to be an exciting game against one of the region’s powerhouse teams! WestOrangeAthletics.com

SEPTEMBER 30TH

Jive Talkin' USA – A Tribute to the Bee Gees

DR. PHILLIPS CENTER - ALEXIS & JIM PUGH THEATER, 65 E CENTRAL BLVD, ORLANDO, FL |

8:00 PM

Jive Talkin' USA, is an “All Live” tribute to the music of the Bee Gees From the 60’s through the 90’s, featuring William Cintron. From songs like “I Started a Joke” to “Stayin' Alive,” audiences are astounded at the energetic authenticity of the group’s musical delivery of the classic hits penned by the iconic Bee Gees. DrPhillipsCenter.org

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/WinterGarden

JUST LIKE FAMILY

ARTICLE BY ANDY CINGOLANI PHOTOGRAPHY BY BELLA LINA CRUZ SALON

WHETHER IT’S CUSTOMERS OR EMPLOYEES, PAULA AND JOSE CRUZ TREAT EVERYONE LIKE FAMILY.

Paula Cruz remembers the call well. It was several months ago and she could immediately hear the panic in the caller’s voice.

“This young lady called and told me she had tried to go from dark black hair to ash blonde and she tried to do it herself, using dye from a box,” she said. “Instead of getting the color she wanted, her hair turned a kind of orange. It had bands of color in it and it was not what she wanted.”

She was able to calm the young lady down and scheduled an appointment for later that day.

“A lot of times, people don't understand that making a change like that can be done, but there are definitely steps you need to take. And it could take five or six visits to get it the way they want it. We were able to get her to a color she was happy with and she was so relieved!”

According to Paula, who along with her husband Jose, owns Bella Lina Cruz Salon in the Winter Garden Village, this is the type of service that has garnered them outstanding online reviews. In fact, they average 4.8 out of 5 stars and they've been in business for 15 years.

“Seven out of 10 hair salons that open don't make it past a couple of years,” Jose said. “It's a lot like restaurants. Either they’re not in a good location where they get a lot of walk-in traffic, or they don't get the word out about their business, or they don't get enough word-of-mouth referrals. We've been blessed to have a great location and we put a lot of resources into marketing the business.”

Another significant factor in their success, the couple said, is the way they develop and retain their outstanding stylists.

“A lot of salons really just provide a space for stylists to work,” Paula said. “That's not how we do it. We provide a lot of continuing education for our employees, so everybody is up to date. And it's not like we make them pay for it. It's part of their job so they can grow and develop as professionals. Everyone who works here is up with the latest trends and techniques so they can provide the best possible service to our customers.”

Jose and Paula Cruz, Bella Lina Cruz Salon

One of the more recent additions to the Bella Lina Cruz Salon family is Tori Sosa, who joined the salon right after graduating from beauty school this summer. She considers it an amazing career opportunity with plenty of potential.

“When you're in school, you're learning the basics,” Tori said. “It's like learning your ABCs. Here, it's a lot more detailed. Every single person that sat in the chair when I was with Jessica (Maya, a manager with the salon) she would ask me what I would do in this situation. And we would talk it through. Even doing haircuts for men… cuts to color to everything, really, I would assist her and talk it through with her. It was a big learning experience. I learned more here than I have in school because this is the real world.”

This is why, according to Paula and Jose, they have so many customers who stay loyal to them for a long time. Even some customers who have moved still travel from as far as Lakeland and Tampa to get their hair done.

“You know, there are a lot of families who had kids who were two years old when we got to know them,” Paula said. “Now some of those kids are graduating high school and becoming adults.”

“You know, there are a lot of families who had kids who were two years old when we got to know them,” Paula said. “Now some of those kids are graduating high school and becoming adults.”