Welcoming in a New Year with Winter Park City Magazine!
Happy New Year! January is the perfect time to focus on health and wellness in all its forms. This month’s cover story highlights Sarah Grafton of Grafton Wealth Advisors, a dynamic business owner, philanthropist, wife and mom that assists families in creating financial wellness. Sarah reminds us that taking care of our health and managing our financial well-being go hand-in-hand when striving for a fulfilling and successful life.
YogaSix, one of our wonderful partners, offers a great way to rejuvenate both body and mind. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or just starting out, their inclusive and encouraging atmosphere is a fantastic resource to help you set and achieve your wellness goals in the new year.
We are thrilled to invite you to an unforgettable night at the Orlando Ballet as part of our monthly issue launch party! Join us on January 22 for a magical evening celebrating community and the arts. Be sure to follow us on Eventbrite and Instagram for all the details—we can’t wait to see you there!
As we dive into 2025, let’s make a commitment to invest in our overall well-being. Whether it’s practicing mindfulness, finding a new fitness routine, or planning for a brighter financial future, this month is all about taking those first steps toward a healthier, more balanced life.
Wishing you a happy and healthy start to the year,
BRANDE DILS, PUBLISHER @WINTERPARKCITYMAGAZINE
January 2025 Visit our Instagram
PUBLISHER
Brande Dils | brande.dils@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Allston McEwan | allston.mcewan@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Arielle Manresa
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
J.Vladimir
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
A Legacy of Leading Care
Winter Park’s Home for Whole Health
AdventHealth Winter Park has been caring for our community for 70 years. With multiple surgical specialties, advanced technologies like robotic-assisted procedures and the area’s most personalized obstetrics care, we’re here to help your family feel whole in body, mind and spirit through every stage of life.
Advanced Specialty Care
• 12 surgical specialties
• Comprehensive cancer care
• Expert emergency care
• Winter Park’s only boutique mother and baby care facility
city scene
1: Aneta Filardo, owner of Winter Park Laser, celebrating 20 years with her guests. 2: Wendy Davis, Event Planner and Chef Ryan from Lamp & Shade at Cows N Cabs 3: Brande Dils, Publisher, and Genesis Calderon, Louis Berk Law Golf Tournament for The Verb Kind 4: Michelle Leeper with their guest all the way from Ghana. Reed Charitable Foundation Experience 5: Daymond John on stage with young entrepreneurs for The Reed Charitable Foundation Experience 6: Giovanny and Nayrouz Olarte at Mills Gallery 7: Citrus Club Women’s Meetup
8: David Rodriguez and Omayara la Bella at the Mills Gallery. 9: Nayourz Olarte and Kait Doulou, International Fashion Federation Event at the Four Seasons 10: Nayrouz Olarte, Omayra la Bella, Siria Andino and McKenzie Zimmer at Mills Gallery. 11: WPCM Team: Siria Andino, Brande Dils and Wendy Davis at Lamp and Shade event. 12: Unmasked ladies from our masquerade event at Lamp and Shade. 13: Rinat Halon with Judy Sarullo, recipient of the proceeds from Rinat’s My Dog Rocks book. 14: New Hope For Kids team, 1st Place Winners at Winter Park Health Foundation Grant Breakfast
15: Theresa Smith-Levin, Brande Dils and Victoria Wells. Winter Park Health Foundation’s Grant Breakfast 16: Rinat Halon and her husband at the Reed Charitable Foundation Gala 17: Brande Dils and Amy Calandrino at the Reed Charitable Foundation Experience
Wekiva Wild River Tours Opens!
Wekiva Wild River Tours offer guests the chance to experience the natural beauty of the Wekiva River with a one-hour guided boat tour, departing from Wekiva Island. The custom boat offers a way to explore one of Florida’s two Wild & Scenic Rivers. Guests can learn about the history of the Wekiva River plus get up close with the wildlife. Tours departing every hour and 15 minutes every day, year-round. wekivawild.com 407-702-0048.
ThreatLocker’s Danny Jenkins named among OBJ’s 2024 Most Influential Leaders
CEO and Co-Founder of ThreatLocker Danny Jenkins has been named to the Orlando Business Journal’s prestigious 2024 Most Influential Leaders List and received the award on November 7th at the Orlando Hilton. Jenkins was honored for his leadership in building one of the fastest-growing private companies. ThreatLocker continues to redefine the cybersecurity market, securing businesses worldwide while creating a workplace where innovation and collaboration thrive.
Mosonori by Chef Henry Moso now open in City Place!
Step into Mosonori by Chef Henry Moso, where calm sophistication meets authentic dining. Watch skilled chefs craft handroll sushi with precision, blending traditional Japanese flavors with innovative twists. The minimalist décor, featuring natural materials and indigo blue accents, sets the tone for a refined experience. Indulge in classic rolls like salmon and tuna or seasonal specialties, each perfectly balanced with warm sushi rice and crispy nori.
ARTICLE BY ARIELLE MANRESA PHOTOGRAPHY BY J. VLADIMIR
Forty, Family, and Finances
An Entrepreneurial
Journey
In the heart of Winter Park, where tree-lined streets meet a vibrant community spirit, one name resonates as a symbol of trust, community, and innovation: Sarah Grafton of Grafton Wealth Advisors. At forty, Sarah embodies an entrepreneurial spirit — balancing family and a flourishing career, driven by her unwavering dedication to her community and her faith.
Founded in 1972 by her father, Bill Grafton, Grafton Wealth Advisors began as a firm rooted in trust and integrity. Today, under the stewardship of Sarah and her brothers, Will and Dex, the company has evolved into a powerhouse independent
wealth management firm, providing comprehensive services such as investment strategies, estate planning, and tax optimization. When asked what makes Grafton Wealth advisors different from other firms Sarah explained that they take a client centered approach to wealth management, “Every member of our team works for every client.” But what sets this firm apart is its enduring foundation: family.
For Sarah, Grafton Wealth Advisors is more than a business; it’s a legacy of service and connection. “Our father built this firm on relationships, not transactions,” she explains. “That’s a value we carry forward in everything we do.” This ethos permeates their approach to financial management, emphasizing long-term goals over short-term gains. As a Certified Financial Planner, Will brings strategic foresight to clients’ portfolios, while Dex, a Certified Financial Analyst, leverages analytical expertise to craft bespoke solutions. Together, this trio seamlessly blends talent, trust, and innovation to deliver unmatched services. You can still find Bill in the office tending
to his clients that have been loyal since the firm’s original opening in 1972. His level of expertise is invaluable.
Sarah’s journey into the financial world began in 2007 after earning her degree, but her success extends far beyond the numbers. A trailblazer in the industry, Sarah has received accolades like the U.S. Presidential Service Award and I-4 Business Magazine’s “Leader of the Year” for her contributions to business services and community impact. “We don’t just work in this community; we live here, raise our families here, and give back,” Sarah says.
That dedication is evident in her extensive
“OUR FATHER BUILT THIS FIRM ON RELATIONSHIPS, NOT TRANSACTIONS. THAT’S A VALUE WE CARRY FORWARD IN EVERYTHING WE DO.”
–SARAH GRAFTON
involvement in charitable and civic initiatives. As a board member for AdventHealth Winter Park, Rollins College Hamilton Holt, Runway to Hope, the Park Avenue District, the Albin Polasek Museum, and the Winter Park Economic Development Advisory Board, Sarah is a driving force behind transformative projects. Whether championing cancer research, supporting local businesses, or preserving cultural heritage, her influence is profound.
“Community is everything,” Sarah reflects. “It’s where my kids play sports, where my neighbors show up to support one another, and where my family built its legacy.” Married to Jason Siegel, President and CEO of the Greater Orlando Sports Commission, Sarah navigates the whirlwind of raising three active boys while spearheading philanthropic efforts and owning a company. From school events to charity galas, Sarah is a fixture, exuding energy and grace.
But how does she manage it all? Sarah credits her husband, parents, brothers and extended family for their unwavering support. “Jason is an incredible partner, and my parents are always there to lend a hand,” she shares. “It’s not just about having a support system; it’s about being part of a community that shows up for one another.”
At Grafton Wealth Advisors, this sense of community translates into client relationships. “Every family we serve becomes an extension of ours,” Sarah explains. The firm’s personalized approach — informed by decades of experience and bolstered by cutting-edge financial tools — empowers clients to navigate life’s challenges with confidence. Whether
helping young professionals build wealth or guiding retirees through legacy planning, Grafton Wealth Advisors tailors solutions to individual goals.
This family-first philosophy extends beyond the office. The Graftons are deeply committed to shaping a thriving, inclusive Winter Park. From sponsoring local events to mentoring future leaders, their impact ripples through the city they call home. “We believe in giving back, not because it’s good business, but because it’s the right thing to do,” Sarah affirms.
For Sarah, “having it all” doesn’t mean juggling perfection; it means embracing balance. “Life is messy, especially with three boys,” she laughs. “But when you align your passions with your purpose, it all feels manageable.” Coaching her son’s on the basketball court or being their biggest cheerleader on the sidelines is one of her top priorities.
As Grafton Wealth Advisors continues to flourish, Sarah’s vision remains clear: to honor her father’s legacy while charting a path forward for the next generation. Her brothers share this commitment, ensuring the firm’s values remain its guiding star.
“We’re not just building wealth; we’re building trust and relationships that last,” she says.
In Sarah Grafton, Winter Park finds more than a leader; it finds a woman who exemplifies the art of balancing ambition, family, and community. And she inspires others to strive for the same.
For Sarah and the Grafton family, success is not just measured in numbers, but in the lives they touch, the legacies they build, and the community they help thrive.
GRAFTON WEALTH ADVISORS: SERVICES AND EXPERTISE
• Investment Strategies: Tailored solutions to align with your goals.
• Tax Planning : Minimize liabilities, maximize returns.
• Estate Planning : Secure your legacy for generations.
• Retirement Planning : Navigate your golden years with confidence.
To learn more about Grafton Wealth Advisors, visit graftonwealth.com
ILLUME DENTAL
WHERE COMFORT MEETS CARE
ARTICLE BY BRIANNA STREETER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ILLUME DENTAL
Stepping into Illume Dental Studio in Baldwin Park feels like entering a sanctuary rather than a typical dental office. We spoke with Gin Do, the founder of Illume Dental, who shared her vision to create a calm, patient-centered space- a response to her eight years in corporate dentistry, where she saw firsthand the hectic pace, stressed staff, and impersonal atmosphere common in large practices. Gin was determined to establish something different, and Illume Dental Studio reflects that commitment to peace and personalization. Every detail at Illume is designed with patient comfort in mind. When scheduling appointments, patients receive a digital confirmation that allows them to customize their visit, choosing from options like warm blankets, eye massagers, noise-canceling headphones, and coffee. From the moment they arrive, Illume’s staff greets patients with a smile and escorts them to a private suite. There, a personalized message awaits on a large TV, adding a unique
and thoughtful touch. Patients can even relax with Netflix on a ceiling-mounted TV during treatment. Gin shared that her focus on a positive, supportive environment extends to her team as well. Illume’s staff regularly bonds outside of the office, fostering camaraderie and ensuring a lighthearted workplace. Gin believes this approach not only creates a happier team but also improves patient care. The experience is further elevated by Cooper, Illume’s gentle and friendly 12-year-old corgi, who happily welcomes patients and calmly escorts them to their suite. Located on Prospect Avenue, Illume offers a range of dental and cosmetic services—from routine cleanings to Botox, teeth whitening, and RF microneedling— addressing both health and aesthetic needs. Gin Do’s unique approach to dentistry, combined with her commitment to a peaceful and personal experience, makes Illume Dental Studio a standout choice for anyone seeking quality care with a gentle touch.
MEET COOPER, THE FRIENDLY CORGI
Cooper, a 12-year-old corgi, is the star of Illume Dental Studio! He loves greeting patients with a wagging tail and helps them feel calm as he walks them to their rooms. Cooper’s sweet and gentle personality makes every visit more fun and relaxing, showing that even a dental office can feel friendly.
ARTICLE BY ALLSTON MCEWAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY PARTY DOWN AMUSEMENTS
The Young Entrepreneur Marketplace at REED Charitable Foundation’s 5th Annual Dyslexia Experience showcased the businesses of 20 young innovators from ages 6-20. These brilliant young minds gained inspiration and motivation from “Shark Tank’s” Daymond John, a fellow dyslexic, and one of the most influential business minds of our time. These aspiring business owners embraced the opportunity to connect with fellow entrepreneurs and engage in a special appearance, presentation, and live Q&A with Daymond John. Please check out all of the young entrepreneurs and support their dreams at reedcharitablefoundation.org/ young-entrepreneur-showcase.
REED Charitable Foundation makes best-in-class literacy training and implementation support financially and geographically accessible, because every child deserves a teacher who can teach them how to read.
Young Entrepreneurs Showcase
REED Charitable Foundation’s Experience
Young Entrepreneurs get a chance to “swim” with “Shark” Daymond John of Shark Tank.
ARTICLE BY ADVENTHEALTH’S DR. MITCH MAULFAIR
ADVENTHEALTH: 8 COMMON HOUSEHOLD HAZARDS
Nearly 9 million U.S. children visit emergency rooms annually, according to Safe Kids Worldwide. Below are eight common household hazards and prevention tips shared by AdventHealth’s Dr. Mitch Maulfair.
SWIMMING POOLS
Swimming pools can be dangerous without supervision. Always keep an eye on kids near water, even if they know how to
medicines. Keep all medications out of reach and avoid relying solely on childproof caps. Use dosing devices provided with medications to prevent mistakes.
BUTTON BATTERIES AND MAGNETS
Button batteries and magnets can be harmful if swallowed. Store these items securely and monitor children’s access to them.
“NEARLY 9 MILLION U.S. CHILDREN ARE TREATED FOR INJURIES IN ERS ANNUALLY”
swim. Install pool fences with self-latching gates and learn CPR. Remember, accidents in the water often happen silently.
TRAMPOLINES
Trampolines are associated with frequent emergency room visits due to unsafe conditions. Despite safety nets, the American Academy of Pediatrics advises against home trampolines to avoid potential issues like falls and collisions.
CAR SEATS
Proper car seat use is essential for keeping kids safe during travel, but 75% are installed incorrectly. Parents should ensure correct installation, use rear-facing seats as long as possible, and replace expired car seats.
MEDICATIONS
Each year, many children visit emergency rooms after accidentally accessing
HOT SURFACES/SUBSTANCES
Hot liquids, chemicals, or sun exposure can lead to ER visits. Set water heaters to 120°F, secure hot items, and use sunscreen for kids over six months.
BIKES AND SCOOTERS
Helmets are essential for preventing ER visits. Florida law requires helmets for riders under 16, and parents should enforce this rule.
AUTOMOBILES
Teen drivers face unique challenges on the road. Teach proper driving habits, model safe behaviors, and discourage distractions like texting.
For emergencies, locate your nearest AdventHealth ER at MyClosestER.com.
ARTICLE BY BRANDE DILS
Behind the Lens
MEET THE TALENTED VENDORS WHO BROUGHT OUR COVER TO LIFE
Britty Cakes Bakery
Brittany Hotard is a baking enthusiast right here in Winter Park. Custom Cakes, Sweets and Treats are her specialty. Brittany also has vegan and GF options. instagram.com/ brittycakesbakery
Gina BarbaneraOrlando Hair and Makeup Artist
Gina specializes in Soft Glam, bringing her clients’ natural beauty to life for weddings, photo shoots, and special events. With her touch, she’ll make you feel like an even more radiant version of yourself! ginabhmua.com
Home of Ana & Ralph Rodriguez
A heartfelt thanks to Ana & Ralph Rodriguez for graciously opening their beautiful home to Team Winter Park City Magazine for a few hours of creativity and collaboration.
Tammara Kohler, Sylist
Tammara Kohler, a visionary stylist and entrepreneur, blends couture and fast-fashion trends with 15+ years in fashion, crafting innovative digital content and pushing boundaries in commercial and editorial spaces. fusedfashion.com
Ansley Schrimsher is the designer behind the Dora Mae Jewelry collection. Her specialty is recreating antique jewelry to pass along to the next generation. doramaejewelry.com
Dora Mae Jewelry
smart SWEETS
The beginning of the year is packed with inspiration and motivation to get back on track after a sweet-filled holiday season. It can feel extreme, and it also can be depleting to cut oneself off from everything indulgent after weeks of eating favorite sweet and savory recipes. For sugar lovers who believe going cold-turkey feels intimidating or overwhelming, nutrition-packed desserts are a great way to stick to healthy food goals without the guilt.
Nutrient-Rich Dessert To The Rescue
ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN
This recipe is a classic favorite. If you cut the bars into 16 pieces, they are around 270 calories each. They are very filling, packed with healthy goodies and taste, oh so delicious. If you can’t finish them yourself (it makes a lot!), bring samples along to your next workout class to share the love. Your accountability group will be asking you for the recipe! These come in handy for a quick breakfast on-the-go or an afternoon snack. You’ll want to taste these out of the oven once they cool a bit... simply scrumptious.
Combine:
• 1 cup wheat flour
• 2 cups cooked quinoa, cooled
• 2 cups oats
• 2/3 cup of your choice of chopped nuts
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 tablespoons chia seeds
• 2/3 cup raisins
• Optional: chocolate chips as desired
• Optional: add additional seeds or nuts on hand such as pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, etc.
Notes: Boil quinoa at a 2:1 water to rice ratio. For estimating, 1/3 cup of uncooked quinoa yields 1 cup cooked quinoa.
Add this mixture slowly to combine:
• 2 eggs
• 2/3 cup peanut butter, almond butter or sunflower butter
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1 banana
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
Bake at 375 degrees for 20 minutes, or until when the edges get golden brown. Bake in a 9x13-inch glass dish. After they cool, slice and enjoy. Keep them covered to maintain freshness.
Quinoa BREAKFAST Bars
Frozen PEANUT BUTTER Bites
Danger ahead: this snack is amazing. It’s the easiest of the bunch and also satisfies a sweet tooth craving. This can be whipped together in just 5 minutes and makes just a small amount. Feel free to take creative liberty here with your amounts, but if you make it to this recipe, they are around 90 calories per bite.
1. Cut a banana into 8-10 small slices, around 1/2 inch each.
2. Spread 1/2 tablespoon of peanut butter (or your choice of nut butter) on each banana slice.
3. Drizzle a small amount of melted chocolate chips or caramel over each bite.
4. Freeze for 15-20 minutes and enjoy!
Pro tip: A dash of sea salt flakes on top of these can be *chef’s kiss.*
These are great to keep on hand in the freezer all weeklong. Once they set, add them to a closed container to keep the bananas from browning.
Late night snack cravings are real! When finding yourself rooting through the cabinets for a sweet fix, these protein cookie dough bites are a great way to curb temptation. This recipe yields around 20 small bites, which can be cut into small squares or rolled into dough balls. Each bite is around 105 calories. If you find the dough is a little too dry, add a dash of milk as needed.
Ingredients
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup peanut butter (or alternate nut or sunflower butter)
• 1 cup almond flour
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• Chocolate chips as desired
Pro tip: Use mini chocolate chips and for a dash of savory add sea salt flakes on top. Once combined, store the bites in the refrigerator in a covered container to keep them moist.
Protein COOKIE DOUGH Bites
NEW YEAR, NEW YOU:
ARTICLE BY NICOLE LEVITT
As the New Year approaches, there’s no better time to focus on health and well-being, and YogaSix in Winter Park is the perfect place to begin. Whether you’re seeking a powerful workout, a calming yoga flow, or something in between, they offer a variety of classes to meet every need. From hot and energizing sessions to slower, mindful practices, their classes are designed to help you feel strong, balanced, and centered. At YogaSix, experienced teachers guide each session with clear, easy-tofollow instructions, making yoga accessible for everyone. No matter your level, they help you build confidence and strength at your own pace. For those looking to tone and sculpt, their sculpt classes combine yoga with strength-building exercises for a full-body workout that leaves you feeling energized and refreshed. YogaSix is more than just a fitness studio, it’s a place to connect with yourself and others in a supportive, welcoming community. They believe in the power of yoga to help you grow, both on and off the mat. Whether you’re working to reduce stress, increase flexibility, or take time for yourself, their classes provide the tools you need to feel grounded and rejuvenated. The New Year is the perfect time to focus on your health and wellness. At YogaSix Winter Park, you can experience the transformative benefits of yoga: mind, body, and soul. By joining their community, you’ll unlock your full potential and make this season your best one yet.
EMBRACE WELLNESS AND RENEWAL AT YOGASIX
events
JANUARY 6TH
Free Day & Story Time at Leu Gardens
Leu Gardens, 1920 N. Forest Avenue, Orlando, FL 32803 | 10:00 AM
Bring your little ones and dive into a world of books! This free indoor event is perfect for families with infants to preschool-age children. Enjoy stories and songs that will entertain and engage your kids. Plus, explore the beautiful Gardens with free admission all day! Check leugardens.org to check the Storytime schedule for ages infant to 5 years old.
JANUARY 8TH – 12TH
Orlando Fringe: 4-day winter festival FESTN4
Fringe ArtSpace 54 W. Church Street, Suite 201, Orlando, FL 32801
Orlando Fringe is excited to announce the return of its recurring 4-day winter festival, FESTN4 returning to Fringe ArtSpace on January 8-12, 2025. FESTN4 bridges the gap for Orlando Fringe’s annual May festival’s patrons, offering a reduced, more-contained Fringe experience in one centralized location. orlandofringe.org
JANUARY 19TH
23rd Unity Heritage Festival In Hannibal Square & Open House
Shady Park across from the Hannibal Square Heritage Center in Winter Park | 8:00 AM
This annual City of Winter Park festival celebrates the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and promotes community and family heritage. The two-day festival takes place in Shady Park across from the Hannibal Square Heritage Center in Winter Park. hannibalsquareheritagecenter.org
JANUARY 22ND
Winter Park City Magazine’s January
Issue Party
Harriet’s Orlando Ballet Center, 600 N. Lake Formosa Dr, Orlando, FL 32803 | 5:30 PM
Join us for the first magazine launch party of the year! This one is going to be extra special, with a VIP sneak peak in the Orlando Ballet’s production of Peter Pan. Follow Winter Park City Magazine on Instagram and EventBrite for more information on the event. The event is free but tickets will be limited. VIP upgrade option will be available.
JANUARY 24TH – FEBURARY 22ND
The Bikinis: A New Musical Beach Party
Winter Park Playhouse, 711 North Orange Avenue Winter Park, FL 32789
Everyone’s favorite girl group from the sixties is back together again after 20 years ... and they’re bringing back the sun, fun and all the great songs they sang down on the boardwalk in 1964 at the Jersey Shore Mobile Home Beach Resort! With a show that promises to get everyone dancing in the aisles, the women relive their heyday and beyond.
JANUARY 31ST
State of the City Address feat. Employees of the Year
Winter Park Events Center, 1050 W. Morse Blvd. Winter Park, FL | 8:30 AM
Winter Park Mayor Sheila DeCiccio’s address will highlight upcoming projects, recent accomplishments and present the Employees of the Year. Immediately following the State of the City Address, Vice Mayor Todd Weaver and City Commissioners Marty Sullivan, Craig Russell and Kris Cruzada will share their perspectives on a variety of city topics. Attendees will also be able to mingle with their fellow neighbors and visit city departments to learn more about the high-quality services the city provides.
CAKES
