June/July 2024 Issue 13

Photo: 5 Senses Photography

A WORD FROM THE TOPCITY RISE EDITOR:

As the warmth of summer embraces us, it's the perfect time to reflect on the vibrant spirit of our community. TopCity Rise is dedicated to highlighting the importance of supporting local businesses and engaging with our wonderful local nonprofits.

When you shop local, you invest in the uniqueness and growth of our community. Our small businesses are the heartbeat of TopCity, offering personalized services and one-of-a-kind products that you won’t find anywhere else. By choosing to spend your dollars locally, you help to sustain the livelihoods of your neighbors and keep our community thriving.

This summer, we also encourage you to connect with and support our local nonprofits and get your children and grandchildren involved. These organizations work tirelessly to make our community a better place for all, from providing essential services to organizing community events.

Volunteering your time, donating, or simply spreading the word about their missions can make a significant difference.

Join us in celebrating the spirit of community this summer. Attend local events, explore our beautiful parks, and connect with friends and neighbors. Together, we can make TopCity not just a place we live in, but a community we are all proud to be a part of.

Enjoy the summer sun, and let’s rise together!

~Lesleigh Hodam

Beat The Heat: With

A Local Sweet Treat

When the summer sun blazes over Topeka, Kansas, locals know just how to beat the heat. From refreshing treats to icecold beverages, Topeka offers a delightful array of options to help everyone stay cool.

Whether you're strolling through a vibrant farmers market, exploring charming local shops, or relaxing in one of the city's beautiful parks, you'll find plenty of delicious ways to cool off.

In this article, we'll take you through some of Topeka’s favorite cooling-off spots and the must-try treats and drinks that make hot summer days a little more enjoyable.

BOBO’S DRIVE IN

When the summer heat becomes unbearable, there's no better place to cool off in Topeka, Kansas than BoBo’s Drive In. This charming, vintage-style diner offers a delightful escape from the sun with its array of classic American treats. As you pull up to this nostalgic spot, you’ll feel transported back in time, half expecting to see an old ‘63 Chevy parked under the awnings. The friendly carhops are quick to greet you, ready to take your order and answer any questions you might have about the menu.

BoBo’s is renowned for its creamy shakes, rich malts, and indulgent sundaes. These timeless favorites are perfect for beating the heat and satisfying your sweet tooth. The cherry shakes, in particular, are a must-try, delivering a burst of fruity flavor that's both refreshing and delicious. And don’t leave without sampling their legendary apple pie a la mode, a dessert that has locals and visitors alike singing its praises. Whether you enjoy your meal from the comfort of your car with food served on a vintage tray or prefer the cozy atmosphere of the small indoor diner, BoBo's offers a perfect blend of nostalgia and culinary delight. So next time you're in Topeka and need to cool down, head over to BoBo’s Drive In for a truly classic American experience.

Root beer float at Bobo’s

Photos: 5 Senses Photography

G's Frozen Custard

Another fantastic classic spot to cool off in Topeka is G's Frozen Custard, a beloved local gem that has been delighting residents since 1991. Every visit feels like a step back in time, reminiscent of old covered drive-ins with outdoor seating where you can enjoy a refreshing breeze or remain in your vehicle with the air conditioning on.

With a rotating selection of 10 to 15 frozen custard flavors offered daily, G's ensures there's always something unique and delicious to try. Their cherry limeades are also quite delightful and refreshing!

The custard here is incredibly rich and smooth, making it impossible to share—once you take a bite, you'll want to savor every spoonful yourself. Favorites among locals include traditional flavors like Chocolate Chocolate-Chip, lemon, and the uniquely nostalgic brown bread. The brown bread custard, in particular, evokes fond memories of hot summer days and childhood moments on a porch swing at grandma’s.

Each bite of G's custard, made daily by a dedicated local family, is a testament to over 20 years of pride in quality and customer service. If you haven't experienced G's Frozen Custard yet, you're truly missing out on a quintessential Topeka treat.

Hazel Hill Chocolate

These chocolatiers infuse their creations with a heart of gold. This summer, you definitely don’t want to miss out on cooling down with their delightful selection of cold treats, perfect for beating the heat.

Indulge in their dipped frozen cheesecake, a creamy and rich dessert encased in a crisp chocolate shell that melts in your mouth. Enjoy the playful contrast of their chocolatedipped frozen bananas, combining the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the luxurious smoothness of their signature chocolate.

These summer specialties, along with their world-class chocolates and exquisite truffles, showcase Hazel Hill's dedication to crafting unforgettable moments of pure delight. Situated in downtown Topeka, this specialty shop is a haven for sweet treats, inviting you to savor their artistry and experience confectionery wonders.

Chocolate Dipped Vanilla Ice Cream Bar

Photos: 5 Senses Photography

Potwin Drug Store

Step back in time at The Potwin Drug Store, nestled within Ward Mead Park, where nostalgia and charm create an unforgettable experience.

This enchanting establishment boasts an old-fashioned soda fountain, complete with walnut cabinets, marble countertops, and antique scrolled metal and wooden chairs, evoking the elegance of a bygone era.

Delight in soda fountain treats such as cherry phosphates, cherry cola, and classic ice cream sundaes, or savor unique offerings like brown bread ice cream. The vintage-era candy and displays of antique mortars at the old pharmacist's counter add to the whimsical atmosphere.

To complete your visit, enjoy a tune from the old Wurlitzer jukebox, making every moment at The Potwin Drug Store a delightful journey into the past.

Potwin Drug Store located in Ward Meade Park Photos: 5 Senses Photography

Cherry Malt Photos: Sent In

Café Barnabas

Summertime tea has always been a staple at our house. Cafe Barnabas is a must-visit destination for tea. Their blended bubble teas are a fan favorite, offering a delightful and refreshing way to beat the heat.

With a variety of milk teas and fruitinfused options, there's something to satisfy every palate. Beyond their delicious beverages, Cafe Barnabas also offers an impressive selection of loose teas that you can take home to create your own sun teas.

Popular blends like Blooming June, Very Berry, Sunshine, and Lady Bee are perfect for brewing in the sun, allowing the flavors to develop beautifully while you enjoy a cool and refreshing drink. Whether you enjoy your tea on the go or prefer to make your own at home, Cafe Barnabas provides endless options for staying refreshed during the hot summer days.

Top: CafeB Barnabas Black Tea and Blended Strawberry Bubble Tea

Left: Blooming June Right: Sunshine Photos: 5 Senses Photography

From creamy ice creams and fruity smoothies to tangy lemonades and iced coffees, there's something to satisfy every palate. These local favorites not only cool you down but also offer a taste of the community's vibrant culinary scene.

So, the next time you find yourself sweltering under the Kansas sun, remember that Topeka has just what you need to stay refreshed and make the most of the season. Don’t keep your favorite local cool treats to yourself, make sure you share your positive reviews in our Facebook Group, Topeka Foodies! Enjoy the summer, stay cool, and savor the flavors of this wonderful city.

Alissa Menke is a valued community member known for her sense of humor, transparency, and dedication to her team at cohort.digital. She ensures her team members feel valued and respected not just for their professional contributions but also for their personal roles as mothers, spouses, and significant others.

Alissa's passion for team sports, stemming from her background as a multi-sport athlete, influences her daily life. She cherishes the camaraderie and collective effort that come with being part of a team. These values of hard work, respect, and mutual support are evident in her leadership at cohort.digital and in how she raises her children to be good teammates.

Actively contributing to the community, Alissa serves on the ArtsConnect Executive Board, the Topeka Area Sports Commission, and the Trail Community Closet board. Her significant time investment goes into supporting youth athletics, where she and her husband coach and coordinate various sports teams. Additionally, cohort.digital supports causes like the National Alliance on Mental Illness and Habitat for Humanity.

Alissa aspires to leave a legacy of helping others and hopes her children will carry on this value. Her passion for the community is driven by a love for seeing people and organizations succeed. Inspired by working moms juggling multiple roles, Alissa pays forward the encouragement and guidance she received from her parents, teachers, and mentors throughout her life.

Through her leadership, volunteer work, and support of youth athletics, Alissa Menke exemplifies a deep love for her community and a commitment to making a positive impact. We are so thankful for all the ways she loves and supports our community!

JQ Guest is a dedicated community member known for his ambition, positivity, and humility. His life revolves around his passions: faith, children, and art. These elements are deeply woven into all of his work, reflecting his commitment to enriching the lives of others.

JQ actively contributes to the community by volunteering at local schools. This year, he partnered with Hillcrest and Robinson middle schools to organize free events for the students, demonstrating his dedication to fostering positive experiences for the youth.

He aspires to leave a legacy as someone who profoundly influenced the youth in the city, aiming to have an impact greater than any community leader before him.

JQ attributes this vision to the plans he believes the Lord has for him. His passion is driven by a desire to be the mentor he wished he had while growing up and to create programs that he would have loved to participate in as a child.

JQ is also set to launch the Lois Curtis Campus on June 22nd, where he will run a youth art program, a summer internship, and an afterschool program starting in August. Additionally, he has exciting new music projects set to release by the end of the summer. JQ Guest’s dedication and passion for his community make him an inspiring figure and a true asset to the city.

We

by lifting others.

~ Robert Ingersoll

Curly Girl Bakes: A Culinary Journey of Passion, Purpose, & Community

By: Lesleigh Hodam

In the bustling world of artisanal baking, Curly Girl Bakes stands out not just for its delectable treats but for the heartwarming story behind its creation. Founded by Claire Cogswell, this small business is more than just a bakery; it's a testament to resilience, creativity, and a deep-seated commitment to community.

"I wanted to be able to use [my gift] in however I felt him calling me," says Claire, reflecting on the beginnings of Curly Girl Bakes. "It also comes from a passion for loving to make food for people and making them happy with it! If I could do both of those things as a job, of course, I’d do that!"

For Claire, the journey of Curly Girl Bakes intertwines with her personal struggles and triumphs. Battling autoimmune diseases and chronic pain, she found solace and empowerment in owning her own business. "Working for myself has been a lifesaver over the past few months," she shares. "Not that owning your own business isn’t hard. But being able to choose my availability and hours helps on days when I am having flare-ups.“

Photo: 5 Senses Photography

However, Claire's vision for Curly Girl Bakes extends far beyond mere entrepreneurship. "Maybe someday I’ll cater some big event that gets lots of attention, but that's not the legacy I want Curly Girl Bakes to be known for," she explains. "I want to be known by my little sister’s comments of, 'she’s the best chef I know', and 'mmmh, Claire Grace you’re a good cooker!'"

Central to Claire's ethos is the concept of giving back and fostering community bonds. Whether it's leaving bread on friends' and neighbors' porches or contributing to fundraisers and benefits, she finds joy in sharing her culinary creations with those in need. Her involvement in group dinners at Mission Church Topeka, where she collaborates with her parents to serve the community, further exemplifies her commitment to making a positive impact.

Reflecting on her collaboration with Blue Jazz coffee, Claire reminisces about the joy of partnering with like-minded individuals who share her passion for quality and community engagement. "Partnering with Kevin and his team was a lot of fun!" she exclaims.

While navigating the intricacies of business ownership without prior experience has been challenging, Claire remains steadfast in her dedication to learning and growing. With the support of her family, including three brothers with business degrees, she continues to overcome obstacles and chart a course for Curly Girl Bakes' success.

Photos: 5 Senses Photography

Photos: Sent In

One of Curly Girl Bakes' standout products is sourdough, a culinary creation close to Claire's heart. Despite initial challenges in mastering sourdough during culinary school, Claire's persistence paid off, leading to a deep appreciation for the versatile ingredient.

"The products that I make that are fan favorites have to be sourdough, cinnamon rolls, and our maple scones," Claire reveals. "Those are the things I hear about most often."

As Curly Girl Bakes continues to evolve, Claire remains dedicated to inclusivity and diversity in her business practices. With a vision to employ individuals with disabilities in the future, she aims to create a welcoming environment where everyone feels valued and appreciated.

In the whirlwind journey of Curly Girl Bakes, one thing remains constant: Claire's unwavering passion for baking, her commitment to community, and her belief in the power of food to bring people together. As she looks ahead to the future, Claire embraces the unknown with optimism and excitement, eager to see where her culinary adventure will lead.

With each batch of freshly baked goods, Curly Girl Bakes not only tantalizes taste buds but also nourishes the soul, embodying the essence of homemade goodness and heartfelt generosity.

store.

The Browns' strong bond has only deepened through their venture. Working long days together has strengthened their relationship, and they cherish the laughter and creativity that fill their boutique. They encourage other mother-daughter teams to pursue business opportunities together, as it can be incredibly rewarding and enriching.

Tonya and Kayla’s goal is simple yet profound: to continue serving their community with style and grace for many years to come. With their combined skills and unwavering dedication, the Browns are set to make a lasting impact on the local fashion scene.

By: Lesleigh Hodam

Photos: 5 Senses Photography

One Can, One Kid: Transforming Communities Through Recycling & Compassion

By: Lesleigh Hodam

Andre Banks always knew that he wanted to give back to his community. Influenced by the unwavering support he received from family, teachers, coaches, and friends throughout his life, Banks was determined to pay it forward.

This vision became a reality when he founded One Can One Kid, a nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the lives of children and families in Topeka through the simple act of recycling.

"I was living in a lower-income neighborhood and started saving cans with the help of my neighbors," Banks recalls. "With the proceeds, I was able to buy snacks for the neighborhood kids that my children played with. I envisioned helping on a larger scale, so I came up with a plan to enlist more people to save their cans. As word spread, we were able to help more than just one neighborhood but spread gifts of love throughout the city."

Pictured: Andre Banks, Founder and Director of One Can One Kid

Photos: 5 Senses Photography

The mission of One Can One Kid is clear: to enrich the lives of children and families through various campaigns fueled by recycling efforts. From the Back-to-School Haircut Campaign, which ensures children start their school year feeling confident, to Thanksgiving meals provided to families impacted by the pandemic, the organization is committed to making a tangible difference. They also run Christmas campaigns, award scholarships, donate to youth athletic leagues, and fight hunger, all while promoting continued education.

"Our primary beneficiaries are children and families in need in our community and graduating classes from Highland Park High School," Banks explains. "We don't have one set demographic because we are all just human beings who may need assistance at some point in this journey of life."

Key programs include battling hunger, ensuring children have happy holiday memories, and supporting continuing education through college, university, or trade

Since its founding, One Can One Kid has grown tremendously. "We went from collecting possibly 300 pounds of cans a month to doing so almost weekly," says Banks. "We have fed 40-50 families for Thanksgiving over the last four years, awarded eight scholarships to seniors in the last three years, and given out 30-40 back-to-school haircuts each year for the past four years."

Despite their success, the organization faces challenges, particularly in securing funding. "We haven't received any grants or large donations, so we have to strategically plan each campaign on a budget," Banks notes. "It's hard to turn someone in need away, so sometimes things get funded out of pocket.“

The local community plays a vital role in the success of One Can One Kid. "We only ask that instead of throwing aluminum cans and bottles in the trash, people put them in a bag and give us a call for a pick-up," Banks says. "The more people saving cans, the more people we are able to help."

Partnerships have been crucial to the nonprofit’s success, with support from organizations like Pat Plumbing Heating and Air, KSNT, Capital City Nissan, and Dillons, among others.

Photo: 5 Senses Photography

Pictured: Andre Banks, with Nichole Miller Photo: Sent In

Currently Banks has been working on a collaboration with Evergy Plaza to have some collection containers out during some of the larger Summer events like the Fiesta Kick-off, Envista Eats and Beats others. Those details will be announced soon. But for now, keep an eye out on those social media pages. If you want to be a financial contributor to securing those collection bins, please reach out to Andre. These community collaborations, along with individual contributions, help sustain and expand their efforts.

Looking to the future, One Can One Kid plans to continue being a vital resource to those in need in their community and beyond. "We have had interest from other states looking to start a One Can One Kid in their area, which is something we are working on," Banks shares. The organization is also gearing up for its 2nd Annual Golf Tournament fundraiser on September 7, 2024!

Banks leaves the broader community with a powerful message: "Saving your aluminum cans and bottles is one of the most inexpensive ways a person can help someone in our communities. People aren't looking for a handout, just a hand up back to their feet. In addition, saving the cans is ultimately good for our environment."

To get involved or support One Can One Kid, individuals and businesses can reach out via Facebook or contact Banks directly at onecanonekid2021@gmail.com. One Can One Kid is also in need of an additional box truck to further their efforts. Through collective efforts, this nonprofit continues to transform lives, one can at a time.

Pictured: Andre Banks, with Dylan Tyler Manager of Evergy Plaza & summer intern, Alex Younger

By: Lesleigh Hodam

The store features an array of exquisite antique furniture and finely crafted clothing, ensuring there is something for everyone. Adding to its charm is a delightful plant section, which brings a touch of greenery and life to the ambiance. The owners, Shannon and Kelly, are thrilled to contribute to the vibrant NOTO Arts and Entertainment District, a community they hold dear. Their goal is for Past Presents to be more than just a shop; it’s intended to be an experience and a place where history and creativity come together.

They recently celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on June 7th, as Past Presents became a cherished addition to the NOTO community. Visitors can look forward to stepping into a world of history, craftsmanship, and creativity, discovering the unique treasures that await.

Past Presents is also seeking additional vendors with unique and fun items to offer. Interested parties are encouraged to reach out and become part of this exciting venture, contributing to the growth and enrichment of the NOTO community.

Photos: 5 Senses Photography

Know Your History: Teaching Without Saying A Word

By: Lesleigh Hodam Photos: 5 Senses Photography

In a world saturated with generic souvenir t-shirts, one business stands out by turning casual wear into a tool for education and conversation. Know Your History, founded by Cheri Thomas, is not just about selling t-shirts; it’s about sharing untold stories and state facts that often go unnoticed. Cheri’s journey to creating these unique designs began over 50 years ago during her extensive travels with her husband.

“We have traveled extensively across the country during our 50 years of marriage. We typically buy souvenir tshirts, with the front printed with the name of the state we were visiting at the time. That’s how I got the idea to create unique tshirts that could inform and educate without using spoken words,” Cheri explains.

Upon retiring in 2019 after 25 years of civil service for the Department of Veterans Affairs, Cheri embarked on this new venture with a vision. Initially, she experimented with tie-dye tshirts, but they didn’t resonate with her audience. “I didn’t want my t-shirts to be just any old t-shirt; I wanted conversation starters with people of all ages. They could teach about people and places we were not taught in school in addition to stating facts,” she shares.

Cheri’s first collection focused on her home state of Kansas. "Starting with my home state of Kansas, I have always been fascinated by Kansas state facts. I started there with the state bird, flower, tree, bird, etc. I researched people that made contributions to the state, like Nick Chiles and Elwood 'Bingo' DeMoss, just to name a few," she says. This approach not only provided a personal touch but also a rich source of historical and educational content for her designs.

The inspiration for her educational t-shirts also came from significant cultural moments. “A bill was signed on June 17, 2021, making Juneteenth the eleventh American federal holiday and the first to obtain legal observance as a federal holiday since Martin Luther King Jr. Day was designated in 1983,” she notes. Cheri had the privilege of meeting Ms. Opal Lee, a pivotal figure in the Juneteenth movement, which further fueled her passion for creating these shirts.

“My t-shirts inspire people to have conversations about history and state facts, teaching in the process. Knowing how to create t-shirt designs that I can sell throughout the year, that can be sold anywhere, including flea markets and special events throughout the United States, is something I take great pride in. Meeting new people along the way is what I love the most,” Cheri adds.

Cheri’s family, known for their artistic inclinations, also plays a role in this venture. “My family likes to create different things; they see the world differently. I would love to leave the business to them to continue to use their artistic abilities for the world to see,” she says, envisioning a legacy that combines creativity with education.

Looking ahead, Cheri plans to expand her collection beyond Kansas to include Nebraska, Colorado, and Oklahoma, and eventually, other states as well. Her t-shirts are distinctive in their design, featuring beige backgrounds with brown transfers, occasionally accented with color. “People find comfort in brown in its natural connection: its earthiness and simplicity are what I like,” Cheri remarks.

Know Your History is more than a t-shirt business; it’s a celebration of heritage, an educational journey, and a conversation starter. Cheri Thomas's dedication to sharing lesser-known facts and inspiring discussions about history makes her t-shirts a unique and meaningful addition to anyone’s wardrobe.

Engaging Kids in Volunteering: 10

Meaningful Ways to Give Back This Summer

As summer approaches, many parents and grandparents look for productive and enriching activities to engage their children and grandchildren. Volunteering is an excellent way to instill values of empathy, responsibility, and community service. Involving kids in volunteer work not only helps their personal development but also strengthens the community.

By encouraging young people to get involved, we are also nurturing a legacy of kindness and civic-mindedness that will benefit generations to come. So, roll up your sleeves, pick a project, and make this summer a season of service and growth!

Here are ten creative ways children and grandchildren can volunteer in their community this summer.

Neighborhood Cleanup Project

Choose a local park, street, or community area that could use some sprucing up. Equip kids with gloves, trash bags, and recycling bins. Organize a cleanup day where they can pick up litter, plant flowers, or even paint over graffiti. This activity not only beautifies the neighborhood but also teaches the importance of environmental stewardship.

Assisting Elderly Neighbors

Encourage children to help elderly neighbors with daily tasks. This could include grocery shopping, walking their pets, or simply spending time chatting and providing companionship. These interactions can bridge generational gaps and provide valuable life lessons and stories.

Yard Work for Local Charities

Many charities and nonprofits, such as Ronald McDonald House, appreciate help with maintaining their outdoor spaces. Kids can volunteer to mow lawns, pull weeds, plant gardens, or clean up outdoor play areas. This physical activity is great for their health and shows them the value of supporting important causes.

Organize a Lemonade Stand for Charity

A classic summer activity with a philanthropic twist! Help children set up a lemonade stand and donate the profits to a local charity of their choice. This can teach entrepreneurial skills, financial literacy, and the joy of giving.

Participate in Food Drives

Food banks and shelters often need extra help, especially during the summer months. Kids can organize a neighborhood food drive, collect donations, and assist in sorting and packaging food at the local food bank. This activity highlights the importance of helping those in need. Breaking Bread Program would be a great organization to reach out to and support: Breakingbread785@gmail.com

Support Animal Shelters

For animal-loving kids, volunteering at an animal shelter can be incredibly rewarding. Tasks may include walking dogs, cleaning kennels, or helping with adoption events. This not only helps the shelter but also teaches responsibility and compassion towards animals.

Create Care Packages for the Homeless

Assemble care packages with essentials like toiletries, socks, and snacks to distribute to the homeless. Kids can decorate the bags and include handwritten notes of encouragement. This project helps them understand the challenges faced by the less fortunate and the importance of kindness. You can connect with Topeka Rescue Mission and see if there are additional ways to serve or where you can drop off care packages for their organization to distribute.

Community Garden Projects

Many communities have shared gardens that need tending. Children can help plant, water, and harvest crops. This activity teaches about sustainable living, where food comes from, and the benefits of healthy eating. The produce grown can also be donated to local food banks or community centers.

Volunteer at Local Libraries

Libraries often need volunteers to help with summer reading programs, organize books, or assist with special events. Kids can read to younger children or help with arts and crafts sessions. This fosters a love of reading and community involvement.

Organize a Charity Run or Walk

Help children organize a small charity run or walk in the neighborhood. They can invite friends and family, create registration forms, and collect donations for a cause they care about. This event promotes physical activity, community spirit, and charitable giving.

K. Michael’s Collection: Where Fashion Meets Personal Expression

By: Lesleigh Hodam

Photos: 5 Senses Photography

K. Michael's offers a wide variety of clothing, including wide-leg pants, jumpsuits, maxi dresses, pencil skirts, A-line dresses, cute tops, hats, belts and other unique accessories. The boutique’s style is perfect for women aged 25 to 60 who appreciate classic looks with a flair of style. "I usually just pick things that appeal to me and my style," says Patrice. "Then I find fun accessories that women can use to really show their personality.“

What sets K. Michael's apart is Patrice's dedication to making fashion fun and accessible. "My boutique is also not just about buying clothes, it's about exploring new styles, creating new looks, and having fun, like playing dress-up when we were little girls," she explains. "I carry a different style of clothing than what is offered in other clothing stores in Topeka, and it allows for creativity and uniqueness in fashion.“

Patrice stays updated with fashion trends by focusing on selfexpression rather than fleeting trends. "My personal thought is that fashion trends are the styles you make that express who you are," she says. "Our focus is 'Unlimited Style,' and you can’t do that if you're just wearing what is popular at the moment.“

The boutique also supports local or emerging designers, like Camillia Valentine, graphic artist Donitta Washington, poetry author Donna Washington, and Topeka native Shampayne Lloyd. Additionally, Bold Culture Lux provides signature scents, handmade soaps, body butter, and other items.

K. Michael's came from.“

Sustainability and ethical sourcing are important to Patrice. "I try to buy from companies that are reputable, trustworthy, and do business in an ethical way," she notes. "Money is never the most important thing in my world; people are, and I try to deal with companies that have the same values.“

Patrice aims to provide a shopping experience where customers feel safe, celebrated, and empowered. "I strive to offer a safe space for shoppers to be themselves, let loose, have fun, and learn to love every curve, bulge, wrinkle, hip, and dip, no matter what size it is.“

Looking ahead, K. Michael's has exciting plans in store, including the introduction of gift cards, a rewards program, and private shopping experiences. "We have been open for one month now, and soon we will offer gift cards, a rewards program, and an opportunity to have private shopping experiences," Patrice reveals. She also envisions hosting model dressing contests and a fashion show in the near future.

Patrice also recently returned from London and has a new line coming soon that we absolutely can’t wait to check out!

With its welcoming atmosphere, diverse fashion offerings, and commitment to personal expression, K. Michael's is more than just a boutique—it's a community where women can celebrate their unique style and individuality.