Jenn Parker’s Thrifting Journey of Traditions
FALLING FOR BUFFALO
Thinking
about my favorite things in the months of September and October, I tend to jump straight ahead into pumpkin spice lattes and oversized sweatshirts. I live in those sweatshirts pretty much from October through March – maybe even April. And I’ve made a pact with myself that I won’t eat or drink anything with pumpkin until October 1. This is an attempt to stay present in the seasons and not rush to the next thing.
So, I challenged myself in this narrative to not forget about the month of September. I think most people overlook September (like I just did). With the exception of back to school and quite possibly being a favorite time for weddings, September is the calendar month that is left on the back burner. It is caught somewhere between summer and fall.
But the warmest water is in the month of September! Western New York has access to so many freshwater spots, between Lake Erie, Findley Lake, and Chautauqua Lake. Yes, most beaches close on Labor Day, but one of my favorite things is to find a quiet beach and enjoy the water. Check local regulations, plan accordingly with closed facilities like restrooms, and take a friend just to be safe!
Second, I love the produce at roadside stands. My favorites are the ones where there is just a little bucket or wooden box to slide your dollar bills into. I didn’t grow up in Western New York, so when I found these unstaffed carts on the side of the road, I just couldn’t believe it. They are the loveliest sights along long country roads. You can find many varieties of apples, late-season plums, peaches and other stone fruits, tomatoes at their peak, sweet corn, root vegetables, herbs and greens this time of year.
With two of my three favorite things having a nod towards September, I’ll touch upon October and what has become the holiday that I most look forward to as I’ve gotten older - Halloween. Maybe as an adult, I now find that I enjoy Halloween more because it isn’t as stressful as “the holidays.” You buy some candy, decorate the house with a few pumpkins and maybe liven up your front steps with a few bright yellow mums. But I think my favorite thing about October are the movies. And I mean watching them on television, during an advertised time slot. No cheating by using any streaming service! I am going to take a bathroom break or get a snack during those commercials when I watch Hocus Pocus, The Nightmare Before Christmas and Beetlejuice!
I hope you have a wonderful September and enjoy all the fall things. I’ll end with one of my all-time favorite fall quotes from the movie, You’ve Got Mail (Yes, I was the girl in college who cut her hair to get that pixie look like Meg Ryan). “Don’t you love New York in the Fall? It makes me want to buy school supplies…I would send you a bouquet of newly sharpened pencils if I knew your name and address.” Okay, so that’s four favorite things.
CONTENT
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JUST A FEW OF MY FAVORITE THINGS
a quiet beach
Especially in September, Buffalo’s beaches offer warm, tranquil waters perfect for a serene escape before fall fully sets in.
roadside stands
These hidden gems along country roads provide the freshest apples, sweet corn, and more, making every trip a charming spot in the community.
spooky season
Time to embrace autumn, with cozy sweaters, festive decorations, and nostalgic movie nights that make this season delightfully stress-free and heartwarming.
Everywhere! The parks and the Erie Canal towpath, for sure, but also the everyday roads and highways
SALES
CARMEN CAMPBELL
LAURIE ABBOTT
Marketing Consultants
EDITORS
SARAH CHRIST
Designer + Photographer
KARA IVISON
Designer + Digital Specialist
WRITING
SUZIE WELLS
Lead Content Writer
KAITLIN DONNAN
Proofreader/Content Writer
JAYME BRESCHARD
JEN YUND
JODY GREER
NIKKI LO
Contributing Writers MANAGEMENT
STEVE HARRISON
MANUEL KARAM
COLLEEN MANN
CRISTIE LEONE
I’d rather take a road trip and see the trees change to Palm Trees but if I had to pick it would be Inspiration Point at Letchworth State Park!
Canada! Mont Tremblant
At the Heart of the Home
BY HELANA SHUMWAY
“THIS IS MY HAPPY PLACE.” WHENEVER A CUSTOMER SAYS THOSE FIVE WORDS, JULIE MUSCATO, OWNER OF JULIE MUSCATO HOME & GIFTS, FEELS GRATIFIED.
Starting her business 13 years ago in a professional park in Lockport, Julie has experienced tremendous growth as a business owner in the historic canal town and is now centrally located at 1 Walnut Street. A woman-owned, women-led business, Julie Muscato Home & Gifts is best described as a lifestyle store. In addition to being a designer’s paradise, the giftshop is the perfect place to find treasures throughout the year. Discover home décor, clothing, jewelry, and a variety of other gifts.
Julie has established herself in the local community as a successful businesswoman whose primary mission is to prioritize every customer who walks through the showroom’s doors. From buying a single piece of furniture to finding a unique gift for a loved one to investing in a full home design, Julie Muscato Home & Gifts is a staple in Western NY.
Memories Designed to Last
Interior design is and always has been the heartbeat of Julie’s business. The 7,000 sq ft showroom is home to one of the largest libraries of high-end fabrics, furniture, case goods, wallpaper books, and rug samples in Western NY. Customers come from near and far to work with Julie and her team. They have garnered a reputation in the local community and beyond, offering everything from a fashionable new outfit with the perfect accessories to a stunning sofa with upholstery that will make visitors envious.
The team specializes in custom design - from designing a single window treatment for the kitchen or a blind for the bathroom to working with clients to design and decorate an entire house, Julie Muscato Home & Gifts is a powerhouse. Nearly all products (including all of the upholstery) in the showroom are made in the United States. The team’s goal is to create an environment that is highly personalized for every client, ensuring that each detail is chosen with purpose and practicality.
Often, customers come to the showroom to explore the array of furniture. Carrying high-quality brands such as Braxton Culler, CR Laine, Spectra, and Woodbridge, there is something for everyone. When it comes to picking the right piece of furniture, Julie has sage advice: “One of my biggest philosophies is to stay away from trends.” As opposed to decorating an entire room in a current trend, Julie and team recommend a design that is classic and timeless, while using accent pieces to infuse the trend throughout the space. A funky throw pillow or area rug juxtaposed with a white sofa, for example, can go a long way, and it is financially prudent.
Clients commonly come into the store with photos of their current space. Julie says this is a great place to start in order to discuss where each client wants their design journey to go. Julie or another designer can schedule a design consultation to visit the client’s house to further explore the needs, wants, hopes, and dreams of the project.
Julie Muscato Home & Gifts will also install everything they sell, ensuring the design and installation process is, as Julie puts it, “taken care of from stem to stern.” The team appreciates that each client is making an investment in their home, and they make it their mission to handle each design project with the utmost care and respect.
The Joy of It All
When asked what it means to her to be a woman-owned, women-led business, Julie reflects back to her team. “I have had the good fortune to surround myself with excellent women. We have grown an amazing team,” she says. Indeed, the showroom’s team of six - while small - is certainly mighty and is fully led by women.
“I love what I’ve built,” Julie beams. “It is something I never thought I would achieve, and that keeps me going. I feel the joy of coming to work every day and serving my customers.” She also expresses her gratitude for the mentors who have helped her achieve great success as a business woman in the Lockport and Western New York regions. Julie pays it forward by working with other local businesses and organizations, often donating the showrooms’ design work for the community’s benefit.
Above all, the customer always comes front and center at Julie Muscato Home & Gifts. It is their focus to ensure that each person who walks into the showroom has the most positive shopping experience possible.
“THE CUSTOMER IS THE MOST IMPORTANT PERSON. WE GO TO ANY LEVEL FOR OUR CLIENTS.”
Indeed, after being in business for 13 years, Julie has had many long-time clients, many of whom she has worked with on multiple occasions over the years. She views return business as “the ultimate compliment” and prioritizes each customer’s trust in her business. With absolute joy, she adds, “Some of the kids of the families I worked with in the past are now calling us!”
Home is Where the Heart Is
A Lockport native through and through, Julie has made an everlasting mark in the community. She radiates talking about how she has grown her business in her hometown. With the holiday season just around the corner, don’t wait to visit Julie Muscato Home & Gifts. Particularly for those who plan on having company over to celebrate the holidays together, Julie advises planning ahead for an 8-week turnaround on furniture to make sure there is plenty of seating for loved ones.
The gift shop will soon come alive with fun, festive decorations and special gifts that will make everyone want to cozy up with a cup of cocoa – and perhaps the perfect throw blanket from the showroom – on a snowy day. Julie knows that home truly is where the heart is, and she considers it the greatest gift to help customers make their dreams come true.
for the home
pg. 18 Redefining Treasures with Jenn Parker
pg. 25 Audrey Hall’s Journey of Leadership and Giving Back pg. 28 Black Boys Read Too
“MY LOVE FOR THRIFTED AND VINTAGE
article by KAITLIN DONNAN
REDEFINING TREASURES
Jenn
Parker’s Thrifting Journey of Traditions with Vintage Roots + Cowboy Boots
Just a 45-minute drive from Buffalo lies Gasport, NY, a town nestled in rolling hills and lush fields. Traveling down Highway 31 with the radio on and the windows cracked to let in the crisp fall air, you’ll find a red barn not too far outside the hamlet: the home of Vintage Roots, featuring everything rustic and antique, curated by Jennifer Parker. Hunting for vintage and thrifted finds has always been in Jenn’s blood. Growing up, it was how her mother decorated their home, a trait she carried with her through college and has since translated into her own personal décor style.
Jenn’s ideal weekend begins with a latte in hand and a drive to the nearest estate sale or flea market. If her boyfriend and their two little ones are up for it, a few thrift stores are also on the agenda. She jokes that if she sees a sign for a yard sale, she must check it out, and her boyfriend, Wade, “doesn’t even ask if I want to stop anymore, he just knows.”
With their two sons, Rhett, 4, and Kane, 1, these outings are not just about finding unique décor pieces; they are family adventures full of discovery and joy. The beauty of thrifting, she says, is that she can “do it with my kids. I can still be a ‘stay at home mom’ while also following my dreams.” She loves to see her four-year-old’s face light up when he finds a treasure.
It was only natural for that love to spill over into online sales and now her own brick and mortar space near her home!
Of the shop’s namesake, Jenn says, “I pondered on it for some time and then it just came to me. My love for thrifted and vintage came from my parents. It’s part of my roots. It became Vintage Roots and Cowboy Boots because I’m often wearing cowboy boots!”
The shop front has given her a space to meet people, adding a personal element that can’t be found online. Having had an Etsy shop and already decorating in a similar theme to what she’s brought to her shop helped with inventory, but she had to figure out her vision along with curating a set up. “It was a little scary to start,” Jenn admits, as online it’s not as big of a deal if something has been listed for a long time. Of her ‘cozy cottage’ theme, she says,
“I PICK ITEMS THAT I LOVE AND THAT I WOULD LOVE TO HAVE IN MY OWN HOME.”
Since starting, she has slowly grown a community of regulars, often through word of mouth or advertising on social media. The community has helped grow her shop, and she is especially grateful to the people she’s met and the support from other local vintage shops. “Some people come in and have ideas of what they’re looking for, and we all send each other business if someone else has an item or look we don’t.”
Jenn is especially excited about Vintage Roots’ Fall Fest on September 22nd, co-organized with her thrifting mom-friend Vanessa and local florist Allie from B’s Flowers. The event will feature a photographer, local artisan vendors, a food truck, and an abundance of all things vintage to create a festive atmosphere to welcome the first official day of fall.
When it comes to her décor style and merging it with her shop, Jenn’s favorite parts are involving her family, interacting with customers, and encouraging designs and ideas. She proudly says, “I love being able to inspire other people to decorate and reimagine an item.”
For Jenn, thrifting is more than a hobby; it’s a way of life, deeply rooted in family tradition and filled with moments of discovery, creativity, and connection.
Start your own nifty thrifting
For those new to the scene or just starting out on your own journeys, Jenn’s advice is simple: “Find joy in the hunt and realize you aren’t always going to find treasure. I always tell my boys we are going treasure hunting.” Sometimes they’ll make multiple stops in a day but come home empty-handed. “You can’t get discouraged,” she says.
Getting into the season
With the textures, layers, colors, and crisp air, fall is by far Jenn’s favorite season. If you aren’t sure how you want to decorate for fall, she recommends checking out Pinterest and Instagram. “Vanessa and I love looking for photo inspiration to come up with a theme for the seasons and hone in on what we’re looking for in the shop [and in our homes].”
Secondly, “Shop your house first. You don’t need all new décor. Use what you already have. Don’t be afraid to paint something or use it in a unique way.”
Finally, “When you are ready to go out and buy décor, look at thrift stores first! It doesn’t have to have a pumpkin on it to be perfect for fall. Look for amber bottles, warm brown baskets, etc.”
Ignite Warmth: Embrace the cozy ambiance with our wood and gas burning fireplaces, inserts, and stoves.
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Seamless Coordination: Our experts synchronize restoration with a harmonious blend of lighting, painting, and flooring enhancements.
ECO SERVE PEST SERVICES: AUDREY HALL’S JOURNEY OF LEADERSHIP AND GIVING BACK
Audrey Hall launched her career in the pest services industry in 2009 as a customer service representative. From there she advanced through various positions including a sales inspector, Human Resources and Accounting Assistant, and Operations Manager. After building her knowledge, she became president of Eco Serve (www. ecoservepest.com) in 2013.
In the office, Audrey likes to have fun on the job! She focuses on networking with the community, working with the entire team to cultivate a thriving culture, manage the brand, and watch their numbers to make sure they are heading in the right direction. She quickly fell in love with the people she works with on a day-to-day basis. She loves watching employees grow and thrive in their positions and taking care of customers!
Outside of the office, Audrey lives in Orchard Park, only 10 minutes away from where she grew up in East Aurora.
Sweet Buffalo is so excited to partner this year with Audrey Hall of Eco Serve Pest Services to spread goodness in the community!
Audrey loves to give back through her business! She recently sponsored a golf tournament for our friends at Buddy’s Second Chance Rescue, raised funds for Compeer of Greater Buffalo, Inc. to support mental health and continues to support The Autism Nature Trail at Letchworth State Park!
Eco Serve has also raised more than $20,000 for the Breast Cancer Network of WNY and helped various nonprofits through sponsorships including Ride for Roswell, Cradle Beach and Goodwill Pathways to Success.
“I am so grateful to be a part of the Sweet Buffalo family. My passion for getting involved in these amazing local nonprofits only happens with my incredible team and our loyal customers. They make it happen,” said Hall.
“We love to partner with businesses who have a passion for supporting their community and Eco Serve Pest Services certainly does! Thank you Audrey for all you do!”
– Kimberly LaRussa of Sweet Buffalo
about you! I played competitive volleyball in college.
What are your favorite things to do outside of the office? Spend time with the family.
What is your favorite hobby? Beach volleyball and golfing.
What is your favorite animal?
The giraffe–I love how tall they are.
• Roofing
• Siding
• Additions
• Kitchens • Bathrooms • Porches • Garages • New Home Construction I couldn’t have asked for a better experience with a contractor and would recommend House Crafters for any and all jobs. The workers who completed the job were extremely professional and courteous to my family and property. I will never choose another company for work
BY JEN YUND
FORGET BEDKNOBS AND BROOMSTICKS–IT’S ALL ABOUT
BARBERSHOP
After a particularly difficult day teaching 5th grade in the Buffalo Public Schools, Ruqayyah Simmons called friend Jelicia Jimenez, the school librarian, asked, “Do you want to help me put books in barbershops?” and Black Boys Read Too was born. Both founders noticed a lack of ability and interest in reading, plus a lack of access to books, for many students, especially the black boys they worked with. Black Boys Read Too (BBRT) is a nonprofit trying to improve the literacy rates of students, with a special focus on black boys, by bringing books to the kids.
Ruqayyah and Jelicia launched BBRT on Read Across America Day 2022. Besides being a natural day to start a reading program, they intentionally wanted the conversation to be about improving literacy in the community, avoiding the negativity now associated with Dr. Seuss.
Their goals aren’t just to make books more available, but to offer books students can see themselves in. Schools claim to focus on using data to drive instruction, yet many districts ignore data that would make the biggest difference for students: offering books kids can relate to.
lives black youth lead, characters that look like them going through experiences they understand, and opportunities for kids to see men and others who look like them reading and enjoying books.
Barbershop Bookshelves was the starting point for BBRT. Barbershops are a central meeting place in black communities, and Ruqayyah and Jelicia had connections with a couple barbers who were interested. Twelve bookshelves were made by students at The Foundry Buffalo on Northampton Street, sponsored by EZ Loans Auto Sales of Buffalo.
Ruqayyah and Jelicia each put in $300 of their own money to purchase books. Since then, the shelves have been kept full through grants, donations, partnerships with sponsors, the bookstore Alice Ever After, and others. EZ Loans Auto Sales runs promotions to purchase books from BBRT’s wishlist, collects books from the community, and offers free storage for books and bookshelves.
Only two years new, BBRT has grown from 3 barbershops to more than 12, as well as new locations including community centers, children’s clinic waiting rooms, Boys and Girls Club locations, after school programs, and in one of Say Yes’ Little Scholar Program locations. Every quarter, bookshelves are rotated and updated with new books.
They offer Barbershop Book Clubs, bringing kids, families, and others, including barbers, together to read and discuss books–they’ve even had authors participate! Jelicia and Ruqayyah said book clubs have been a great way to be
“KIDS LOOK UP TO THE PEOPLE WHO CUT THEIR HAIR. IT MAKES IT COOL TO SEE BARBERS READING, NOT JUST TEACHERS AND PARENTS.”
-AMANDA PALMIERI
involved with participants in person, build relationships with barbers and families, and they seem to have helped retain participants. They want more community readers involved - people the kids can relate to showing a love of literature.
Black Boys Read Too also holds Literacy Pop Up Events in collaboration with local events and organizations, like a read-and-draw day when they worked with a muralist, giving kids an opportunity to do art and read. They’ve partnered with yogis, a local gym, a ninja warrior event, and many others. This has grown into them getting spots at festivals such as Beau Fleuve, and 716 CommUNITY Festival.
Short term goals for BBRT are to get the Barbershop Bookclubs going again and use them to build a Community Readers Program. This is a scaffolded approach to offer age/ability appropriate opportunities to read and discuss books with a reader from the community. They are always updating and rotating books, talking to local authors, making connections, building community relationships, and looking for new spots to place bookshelves. At this time, they don’t have enough bookshelves on the East side of Buffalo, so if you are a barber or know one on the East side, please reach out to blackboysreadtoo.org!
When asked what the BIG goal, the DREAM is, Ruqayyah and Jelicia say: Spread to other cities.
They both agreed the support from the Buffalo community has been fantastic. Ruqayyah said for her, one of the best things has been seeing her students and their families participating in their programs. Jelicia said most moving for her is seeing families return to Barbershop Bookclubs, sometimes bringing different family members with them.
Fade In Full at 1068 Elmwood Avenue was one of the first barbershops to welcome the bookshelves and bookclubs into their shop. While owner Aaron was unavailable, barbers Amanda Palmieri and Reggie Williams were happy to talk about the programs. They agreed that they’re great programs and they see kids and families often take advantage of the books available in the shop.
According to Reggie, the bookshelves are a great idea, because “Barbershops are known as community hubs. It’s a great way to make books available to kids so they can explore. Many don’t have lots of books around them. This program gets kids to come out of their shells and get comfortable trying to read. It is the definition of what community means.”
article + photos by
JACKIE GOERGEN
THE FUN DOES
PICKLEBALL
NOT HAVE TO END
TThe sun is up for just over an hour and burning the dew off the grass at Clarence Town Park. All twelve pickleball courts are full. Within a half hour, a player will take the lead to facilitate rotations of players.
Inevitably, November arrives in Western New York. The 7am milky grayness, visible through the windows at the end of the indoor pickleball courts at the Williamsville location of Village Glen Tennis and Pickleball, contrasts the brightly lit courts. The paddle holder is full as the center’s ambassador calls the two-on, two-off rotation.
According to the Sports and Fitness Industry Association, 2024 marks the third year of pickleball being the fastest growing sport in terms of participation. As Western New York embraces the trend in public parks from East Aurora to Como Park in Lancaster, the fun does not have to stop when temperatures fall and precipitation chances increase.
WNY has plenty of indoor opportunities to play. The Village Glen has its North and South town locations. Pickleball Island in Grand Island is also a popular destination. YMCA locations from Lockport to Buffalo have pickleball courts. Many players have also found a home through Zion Dominion on North Forest in Amherst. A quick pickleball search on Step Out Buffalo provides a comprehensive listing of places throughout Western New York with pickleball courts and open play opportunities. Phone apps like Pickleheads can help find open play times and locations, but it is best to call a location to verify time and days of play.
WHY PLAY?
A few weeks ago, when I was partnered with my friend, Carolyn Barberio, who encouraged me to learn, she declared, “I just love playing pickleball.” Carolyn has been playing for five years and likes the flexibility to play for just an hour or longer. It’s always fun to check your watch and realize that 1.5 hours of fun, moderate play can translate into 500 calories burned. Carolyn also treasures the all ages nature of the game. She enjoys playing with her 8-year-old great-nephew while other times challenging contemporaries or players anywhere in between.
Mary Bartlett also values the social aspect of the game. During her four years of playing, Mary has made dozens of new friends, and with everyone seemingly knowing everyone in WNY,
connections among pickleball players multiply. Mary notes that continuing to meet new people and socialize enhances the aging process. She also enjoys the challenge of the game. Once a player learns the basics, there are endless possibilities for mastering strategies from serving to returning to rallies at the kitchen line.
Like Carolyn and Mary and so many WNY players, I enjoy the multi-age and social aspects of pickleball. At an open play, you never know who you will meet. I remember a February open play when I met someone new to Buffalo from Brazil. My story is also similar to the experience of others who once played tennis. Though our bodies may no longer support competitive tennis play, the instincts for top spin and shots down the line or behind the opponent are fun to relive.
GETTING STARTED?
As with nearly all sports, the best advice is to get out there! I agree but suggest that new players go online and read the basic rules of play and scoring. Then take a newbie clinic to quickly build confidence and skills. The Village Glen, Rally Niagara, and Pickleball Island offer beginner clinics at affordable prices. After playing a few weeks, intermediate clinics are worthwhile to prevent developing unfortunate habits like backing off of the kitchen line and popping the ball up too often.
In terms of gear, many new players start with a basic paddle often sold in a multi-pack kit, but then graduate to a better paddle, with sufficient options available online or at big box locations. Smaller retailers are also great with recommendations and allowing customers to demo paddles. Investing in court shoes is a must. I played for several months in my running shoes, and my knees are much happier with the stability and balance court shoes provide.
Despite shorter days and the sun not coming up quite as early to burn dew off the grass, there is still plenty of time to enjoy outdoor play at parks throughout the region. Play will also continue with WNY’s range of welcoming, affordable, and accessible indoor opportunities that promote year-round fun play and skill building and, perhaps, most importantly, genuine WNY relationship building.
FIND A COURT
Picklebal� Island (Grand Island)
Largest dedicated indoor pickleball facility in New York, offering open play, leagues, court rentals, lessons, and tournaments // 7 Indoor Courts
Buf�alo RiverWorks (Buf�alo)
Versatile venue with permanent lines and portable nets // 7 Indoor Courts
Independent Health Family Branch YMCA (Buf�alo)
Available with a membership, features portable nets and permanent lines // 2 Indoor Courts
Ken-Ton Family YMCA (Buf�alo)
Indoor courts available with membership; features permanent lines and BYO nets // 2 Indoor Courts
West Side Com�unity Services (Buf�alo)
Membership required, featuring permanent lines and BYO nets
2 Indoor Courts
Jewish Com�unity Center (Amherst)
Offers year-round indoor pickleball play; requires membership
4 Indoor Courts
Buf�alo Niagara Court Center (Wheatfield)
Offers year-round indoor play
3 Indoor Courts
Niagara Fal�s Family YMCA (Niagara Fal�s)
Available for members; indoor courts with portable nets // 2 Indoor Courts
Como Park (Lancaster)
Free public courts with permanent nets, popular for local play
6 Outdoor Courts
Mang Park (Kenmore)
Free access, permanent nets, and lines // 2 Outdoor Courts
Wil�ow Ridge Park (Amherst) Free access, BYO nets, and permanent lines // 8 Outdoor Courts
JFK Playground (Buf�alo)
Free access, permanent nets, and lines // 2 Outdoor Courts
Lincoln Park (Tonawanda)
Public access with permanent nets
2 Outdoor Courts
Nike Base Park (Hamburg)
Free public courts with permanent nets and lines // 4 Outdoor Courts
Hyde Park (Niagara Fal�s)
Free public access, with permanent nets // 6 Outdoor Courts
Veterans Memorial Park (Lockport)
Public courts with permanent nets; free access // 4 Outdoor Courts
Grif�on Park (Niagara Fal�s)
Free access, with permanent nets
2 Outdoor Courts
MEET THE FACES OF SOME AMAZING WOMEN-RUN BUSINESSES AROUND BUFFALO:
What does your perfect day off look like?
My shop is open 7 days a week from March through the end of December, therefore I really appreciate our long winter’s nap! My favorite respite is a day of sunshine poolside with family & friends in Florida.
What inspired your business?
I was inspired to start Country Cottage 39 years ago by my passion for people, and to inspire them to create beautiful décor for their homes.
Your go-to way to stay active?
In addition to my shop, I am blessed with the ability to hold 3 weekly workshops in my Studio! This certainly keeps me very active!
PEGGY TYRRELL THE COUNTRY COTTAGE
NORA SAINTZ GARDENETTE
What does your perfect day off look like?
Spending time in my garden (there’s always something to do!).
How do you celebrate your wins (big or small)?
I share them with my family-they are my biggest cheerleaders.
What inspired your business?
After years of helping friends and family with their home gardens, I knew other people would benefit from my expertise! I chose “Gardenette” (or “Little Garden”) because I believe everyone should have access to a beautiful landscape, no matter how small!
How do you celebrate your wins (big or small)?
There is a win in each day to feel good about, and tomorrow is a fresh start again. The small celebrations are the most important, which might just be sitting for a bit and dreaming of the next.
What inspired your business? Home has always been a source of inspiration for me; it’s a space that grounds us and nurtures us. I love the stone agate and birch is my favorite tree.
One thing you can’t live without? Laughter with those who also don’t take ‘it’ all too serious.
LISSA MANN AGATE AND BIRCH
CATHERINE YERGEAU
LAZY DAISY STITCHING
What does your perfect day off look like?
Spending time with family and relaxing.
How do you celebrate your wins (big or small)?
Take a moment to be grateful for all that I have.
Your go-to way to stay active?
Running my store!
How do you celebrate your wins (big or small)?
I’m not one to boast, so I tend to not do too much. Sometimes it’s simply taking a moment to be present, be thankful and reflect. Big wins I love to share with employees, family and friends, since I could not be here without them. In those cases a fun dinner or dessert (and maybe some cocktails!) are in order!
Your go-to way to stay active?
I love walking and yoga! I used to teach classes regularly before I owned the store and had kids.
One thing you can’t live without?
Books - Even if I never read them, I have always collected interesting antique books, even just for their covers. Reading is a pastime I’ve always enjoyed.
What does your perfect day off look like?
If it’s a single day off, I LOVE comfy clothes, a blanket, my cozy couch and a good show to watch on TV. I use my brain so much when I am working that I really enjoy turning it off and laughing at something on TV. If I have multiple days off in a row, I am hopping on a plane and exploring some place new.
What inspired your business?
ELIZABETH MAUTE GRAPHIC-POETRY
I’m an engineer by education, but I have always wanted a way to express my creative side. I’m aware it is odd for someone with such a technical background to also be a really talented creative, but interior design brings me to life! I figured out my love for interior design while doing my own home renovation. The combination of project management, technical communication, and artistic imagination turned me into an extremely fulfilled mom, wife, and woman! I named my business after myself because my personality and positive energy are at the heart of my company and I want my clients to feel that energy when embarking on a project with my firm.
One thing you can’t live without? COFFEE! I love to try new coffees from places all over the globe.
DENINE JACKSON
DENINE JACKSON INTERIORS
What does your perfect day off look like? Going for a long walk and doing skin care.
How do you celebrate your wins (big or small)? A nice dinner.
What inspired your business? My passion for events. I didn’t know what to name my business so I thought my initials would be easy.
MIRANDA
QUARTARO MQ EVENTS
How do you celebrate your wins (big or small)?
What does your perfect day off look like?
Time spent with family, a nice walk, gardening or heading to the lake
What inspired your business?
Strong willed women! I have a network of wonderful women who inspired me to do more and follow my heart! Vivify means renewed, to bring to life. We strive to help others meet their health goals and leave feeling renewed!
One thing you can’t live without?
MICHELLE MANIACE VIVIFY HYDRATION LOUNGE & MEDISPA, LLC
RACHAEL BECKSTEIN
COTTAGE BLOOM
CANDLE CO.
I think I am always working on this but I like to do something nice for myself and husband; it’s a team effort so even just getting drinks or something to top a good accomplishment is always fun! Also to not ignore the wins, because they’ll keep you moving when running a small business.
What inspired your business?
It started as a retreat for myself in our cottage basement during a really stressful time. Slowly over time I started online and doing local Buffalo pop-ups and just loved it. The name came to me in the car one day, since it started in our cottage house and sort of ‘bloomed’ there, plus I have a favorite hydrangea tree that’s bloomed amazingly since we moved in and it just felt like the right name!
Your go-to way to stay active?
I am taking this much more seriously the older I get (haha) but working in a small shop you’re constantly moving and creating so that’s been great, but I also try to do classes that I find enjoyable.
Time with my daughters–life is busy, so it is important to take the time to make memories.
CYNTHIA WEST BLACK WILLOW WINERY
What inspired your business? It’s a long story but I will try and condense it. My beloved cat Baggy Wrinkles passed away at age 4 very suddenly and there was nothing we could do to help him. My heart broke and I had to redirect the pain into something positive so I decided to live my dream in honor of him. So I started the long journey. The name came to me when looking at properties for the winery. There were two big beautiful trees and the owner said they were Black Willow Trees and I said “that’s it!” They said “What?” I said “that’s the name of the winery: Black Willow Winery!” Because the BW for Black Willow is also BW for Baggy Wrinkles in honor of my little love.
Your go-to way to stay active? Walking and going to the gym, hiking, kayaking, anything outside.
One thing you can’t live without? The support from my amazing family, friends, and staff.
What does your perfect day off look like?
No alarm clock going off, no deadlines to meet and spending time with my family who are the most fun people I know.
What inspired your business?
A friend suggested that I would be good at creating well organized spaces for people. At the time, I was running a drapery installation service. I had skilled employees that could do the work. I sourced the products and built the manufacturing capacity over time. There was certainly a learning curve for me but I was able to successfully expand what we were doing and eventually left the drapery installation business altogether to focus on the organizing business. I didn’t want to limit my business services by using “closets” in my branding. The name Creative Storage was so much broader and to the point. We do every space you might have residentially in addition to commercial projects and store fixtures.
Your go-to way to stay active?
I’m an avid sailor. I like to cruise around with friends but I also race competitively.
DIANA C. AUGSPURGER CREATIVE STORAGE
What does your perfect day off look like?
Being home and playing in the garden!
How do you celebrate your wins (big or small)?
Accomplishments big or small... Nothing brings me more joy than to share them with my family. They are my source of strength and my biggest cheerleaders!
What inspired your business?
I spent many years doing a lot of community service which I enjoyed. I just got to a point that I needed to build something for myself. My kids were getting older and it was perfect timing. As for the name I often chuckle; not sure if it is a good thing or a bad thing my name is the business? It just made sense at the time.
SOBON SPRUCE ON MAIN
What does your perfect day off look like?
I enjoy a slow, quiet morning followed by shopping with my daughters and ending the day eating out at one of our favorite local restaurants.
What inspired your business?
I really didn’t enjoy working from home during the pandemic. While I was considering my options of what to do next, the idea of opening a boutique came into play and it was the scariest but best decision I’ve ever made.
Your go-to way to stay active?Working in retail! You never sit still and are constantly lifting heavy things. Most days I leave the shop exhausted!
KRISTA
Spread Joy!
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Buffalo’s Creative Pulse
AKASYA CROSIER’S JOURNEY THROUGH ART, HEALING, AND COMMUNITY
The Buffalo art scene has been making waves lately. As home to some of the most talented, eclectic, and culturally diverse female artists that Western NY has to offer, the Queen City’s art movement is thriving more than ever. Local graphic designer and mixed media artist, Akasya Crosier has earned recognition as the creative force behind Buffalo’s most celebrated graphic designs, logos, and artistry. Born of Turkish and French descent, she is a 2017 graduate of the University at Buffalo where she studied Communications and Graphic Design. Crosier has often found that art is more than just a mode of self-expression; it’s a way of life and self-healing.
Before finding her footing with graphic design and mixed media, Akasya felt out of step within the world at times. “Sometimes jobs didn’t work out, or I didn’t like the manager. I felt like, ‘Am I the problem?’ It felt like my artwork was just inevitable,” she confesses. Fortunately for her, there was a much greater purpose yet to unfold. Art became more than a pastime but a valuable tool to communicate and process emotions. “I think I have had such a close personal relationship to art in a healing way. In the last couple of years, I have gone through tough stuff, but art is a unique type of outlet that allows [me] to express [my]self,” she says.
ARTICLE BY JODY LYNN GREER
ART BY AKASYA CROSIER
THE PAINTED BUFFALOS
Notably, Akasya painted a denim jacket and Zubaz on the buffalo statue outside Picasso’s Pizza in West Seneca, bringing the statue back to life and bringing art to the masses. She painted an art-themed buffalo for Clay Hands Studio in Clarence. And she painted a buffalo decked out with local landscape and worker’s union theme illustrations for the City of Lackawanna.
LOCAL ART OPPORTUNITIES
Locust Street Art (locuststreetart.org): Free art classes in Buffalo (grant funded). Up until recently I was a teacher and a marketing coordinator for them.
The Foundry (thefoundrybuffalo.org): My sister teaches sewing here and I have used them for countless resources, and it’s a great and accessible makerspace. The Foundry is an active, communitybased makerspace committed to hosting afterschool arts, STEAM, entrepreneurship sessions, and workforce development opportunities for young adults, providing hands-on classes for adults and supporting local entrepreneurs in developing maker-based businesses.
OTHER COOL BUFFALO ARTISTS AKASYA RECOMMENDS
Danielle Saeva, @danielle.saeva - oil painter and muralist. Quite literally the best painter I know.
Kimberly Crosier, @kimmy_stitches - my sister, a sewist! Makes custom corsets that are truly works of art and does alterations at a local tailor shop.
Emma Brittain, @blackandbirdy - ceramicist with a love for birdwatching/nature. She’s currently building massive parade puppets for a grant.
Kenny Bud, @kny_bud - film photographer who focuses on Buffalo and just captured some of the most beautiful spots over the course of a day at different points in time, and works with CEPA, a local gallery with a focus on photography and digital medias.
Mickey Harmon, @mickeyharmonart - queer Illustrator who absolutely runs the art scene here in Buffalo. Partially owns a shop with three other artists downtown called Pineapple Company.
“It’s very surreal to see it out in the world. I See PEOPLE WEARING [MY ART] AND I am like ‘Hey, I made that shirt...’”
Crosier’s love of graphic design and her unique individuality helped pave the way to working with some of Buffalo’s acclaimed businesses, nonprofit organizations, and mom and pop shops. Her services include digital design, print design, brand development, and social media marketing. Most recently she has worked with the city of Lackawanna and Shea’s Performing Arts Center.
She says that sometimes art can come to fruition by mere chance. Arguably, Akasya’s biggest claim to fame is “Juicy Josh,” a concept that came to her after a night out with friends. A beloved Buffalo gem, the “Juicy
Josh” print humorously depicts the famed Bills quarterback, Josh Allen, in a pair of Juicy Couture sweatpants. It wasn’t long before the print made its way to Reddit, Instagram, and eventually to the Bills training camp.
“It’s very surreal to see it out in the world. I see people wearing it and I am like ‘Hey, I made that shirt!’ Someone brought the print to training camp and he did sign it,” she adds.
When asked what her favorite media to work with is, Akasya admits she has an affinity for mixed media paintings and digital illustrations. By using acrylic painting materials and fabric scraps sourced directly from Stitch Buffalo, Akasya infuses her unique blend of creativity and sense of humor into every project. Stitch Buffalo is a center close to her heart. They are a nonprofit textile arts center that promotes community education and awareness for refugee women and other immigrants by selling handcrafted goods, textile supplies, and offering sewing classes.
As a lifelong resident of WNY, Akasya draws much inspiration for her work from friends, family, and her love of all things Buffalo. Recently, Akasya lent her creativity to her most heartfelt project yet following the loss of fellow artist and friend, Jennifer Orr. After struggling with her mental health, Orr lost her battle in November 2022, a loss that deeply impacted the Buffalo arts community and all who understand navigating the complex reality of living with mental illness and the stigma associated with it. Since then, the Orr family has raised proceeds to honor the life of their daughter by gifting the Kristen Vincent Respite & Recovery Center with art produced by local artists. Orr herself strongly believed in the importance of bringing art to Western New York. Akasya recently dedicated a portrait of Orr in commemoration of the life of the late, beloved local artist.
Finding healing in loss and transforming pain into light is one of the many benefits of art Akasya understands all too well. Frequently her work can be described as a quirky, fun tribute to everyday life in Buffalo, NY, and other times a vivid and emotionally complex inner world of an evolving artist. •
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Discover Why Autumn is Nora’s Favorite Time to Plant!
Fall planting gives plants a head start, leading to stronger growth and better blooming in the spring. Here’s a few reasons why:
Cooler Temperatures: The cooler weather in fall reduces stress on newly planted plants. It’s easier for them to establish roots without the heat and intense sunlight of summer.
Less Competition: With the decline of summer annuals and fewer pests and diseases, there’s less competition and fewer threats to new plants.
Moisture: Fall often brings more consistent rainfall, which can help new plants settle in and get established.
Extended Root Growth: Planting in fall allows plants to develop strong root systems over the winter, so they’re ready to take off in the spring.
Winter Dormancy: Many perennials and bulbs go dormant in the winter, so planting them in the fall allows them to acclimate and be ready to grow when temperatures rise.
Gardenette’s certified designers prescribe the best plans, plants, and planting advice to realize each client’s vision. Our mission is to design outdoor spaces and teach our clients how to plant with confidence so they can enjoy their landscape for years to come.
We highlight local artisans and inspire the transformation of the places we live to the spaces we love. Home.
Our Home team does everything we can to feature great “small” businesses, unique nonprofits and local creators to add a positive spin on your dayto-day. Hopefully, we will see you out and about at a pop-up shop, farmers market or event.
Your local business will get its place to shine in our Buffalo & Rochester Home Magazine.
www.thehomepublications.com team@featuredmedia.com
-Sarah, Kara, & Laurie
STYLED BY TEACHERS
MEET BUFFALO’S ADORABLE �TRENDYTEACHERS716 DUO
With over forty years of teaching experience between them, Kim Gugino and Cindy Biersbach have long been in the business of inspiring young students. Now, they’ve found a way to inspire fellow teachers, too.
HOW IT AL� BEGAN
Ah, back-to-school season. The kids are back in class and the air is crisp with novelty and possibility. For teachers Kim and Cindy, that means a new set of names to learn, new lessons to plan, and perhaps the most fun: an excuse to take full advantage of back-toschool clothing sales.
Both at Sweet Home Central School District in Amherst, NY, Cindy teaches second grade while Kim recently began a math coaching position after years as a fifth-grade teacher. The two initially bonded in 2005 over similar interests, both being healthy recipe enthusiasts, both moms to “kids and pups,” and both passionate about making a difference through their roles as teachers. And, of course, they both LOVE to shop.
When the two weren’t shopping, they were sharing deals they’d found and swapping ideas on the latest styles. Eventually, their love of fashion led them to Instagram, where they began sourcing outfit inspiration by way of their favorite influencers.
“We saw a couple of Instagram accounts of teacher friends sharing their daily outfits, and we sort of jokingly said one day, “Hey, we could totally do that!”
In January 2024, the two set up their account, filmed their first video, and @trendyteachers716 was born. The only problem? They had “no idea what to do with it.” With some time and practice (and a little guidance from a work friend who helped them demystify Instagram), the content creation process became easier, and their community steadily grew to over five hundred everyday fashion enthusiasts.
“We have really enjoyed challenging ourselves to learn new things (both of us being over forty) and to try something new after all of these years in our profession,” they say.
Kim and Cindy are proof that it’s never too late to explore a new interest or one you’ve had for years. After all, you never know what unexpected surprises or opportunities might come along with it. The ladies behind @trendyteachers716 are excited to see where their content takes them, but most of all, they’re happy to just “have fun together and share some things we love!”
ARTICLE BY NIKKI LO
BUF�ALO’S FASHION TRAILBLAZERS
Inspiration can come from anywhere. But for Kim and Cindy, the best inspiration comes from colleagues they work alongside every day to change countless lives for the better - proof it’s possible to do a superhero’s work while looking impeccably stylish.
“Seeing looks on people who you know and love makes it all the more fun to wear yourself,” they say. “We can’t tell you how many times we see a cute piece on a colleague and immediately order it.”
Also a major inspiration source is Buffalo’s vast collection of unique boutiques and trendy small businesses. The two are experts on the city’s shopping scene and love supporting women-led brands.
So, where should you shop if you want cute, quality clothes and support local female entrepreneurs? Kim and Cindy’s top recommendations are:
Rove Boutique and Gifts: This Williamsville boutique is known for their trendy clothing, home décor, and accessories. Plus, they love supporting Western New York artisans. “They always welcome us in to try on new looks and share what we find with our followers,” they say.
STYLE TIPS FROM @TRENDYTEACHERS716
Freshly armed with Kim and Cindy’s list of top local clothing vendors, you have almost all you need to elevate your wardrobe for fall. But before you hit the racks, the two have a few pointers to help you make the most of your shopping trip:
Spruce On Main: This place is your new goto for “modern yet classic” décor, gifts, and lifestyle goods. The trendy teachers also love that it was founded by a Snyder mom of three daughters.
Snyder General Store: If you’re looking for Buffalothemed apparel that’s also stylish, look no further! Be sure to check out their extensive collection of locally handcrafted candles while you’re there.
Research And Design: Orchard Park’s resident “cool store” is hosted in a converted barn offering a unique shopping experience where you’ll find a myriad of on-trend sweatshirts, tees, activewear, and more. And they’re huge Bills fans!
1. While browsing, try on styles you’ve never worn before. You never know – you might end up loving it on yourself and find your new signature look.
2. An expensive outfit doesn’t always equal good style. Hunt down sales, explore thrift shops, and cut coupons. You’d be surprised at the gems you can find at bargain prices.
3. Invest in a good pair of jeans or two. Jeans go with almost any outfit, and their versatility makes them a wardrobe staple.
4. Accessorize! Accessories can spice up or change the entire vibe of your outfit and they usually don’t break the bank.
5. And perhaps the most important of all: You can wear new and trendy pieces no matter your age. If you’re shopping and spot a trendy piece you love, Kim and Cindy encourage you to try it on! That said, don’t feel pressured to follow fashion trends if you don’t like them. Only wear clothes that make you feel amazing, because when you love what you wear, you’ll always feel like you’re walking the runway.
A Dream Come True
“I began stitching 30 years ago. I was looking for a craft that I could be passionate about, but I am not an artist. I had tried knitting – too many needles. Then I tried crocheting – I kept picking up or dropping stitches. Finally, I came across stitching…”
- Cathy Yergeau, Owner
Offering stitching supplies, along with classes, & groups. Open Stitch is the first and third Thursday of each month from 4-8pm and on Saturdays from 9am-3pm.
L et y o ur lu xur y b eg in at h o m e
l e t o ur d esign e rs he l p yo u w it h.. .
F u rn itur e • Custo m W i n d ow Tr e atm e n ts • Wall C overi ng s Ar ea Rugs • Custo m B e dd i ng • H o me Acc esso ri e s .. . An d an e xqu i s i te g i ft s h o p
creating memorable events that exceed
Alexis Bandera - Buffalo Wedding Photographer
expectations
“Miranda took the time to listen attentively to my ideas and preferences, translating them into reality with creativity and finesse. Her ability to strike the perfect balance between honoring my vision and offering invaluable guidance and suggestions was truly remarkable.”
At MQ Events, we excel in exceptional event coordination and planning. Our mission is to create memorable experiences for events of any size, providing personalized attention and professional expertise to ensure success. We aim to eliminate planning stress so clients can enjoy their special moments.
For DIY couples who need help on their wedding day, our Wedding Day Management package ensures a smooth, worry-free event with a light but effective touch.
The Partial Planning package is ideal for those who want to handle some planning but need assistance with specific details, like venue selection. This package offers a tailored, streamlined process to exceed your expectations.
The Luxe Full-Service Planning package provides a comprehensive, expert-driven experience, including consultation, venue selection, vendor coordination, budget management, and more. It removes all planning stress, ensuring a memorable day.
We also offer custom packages based on your needs and budget, plus rental décor options like plates, candlesticks, and table numbers to ease your planning process.
To get started on this exciting journey, contact MQ Events today and craft a day that you and your guests will cherish forever!
TPI Photography
Katie Jane Photography
Alexis Bandera - Buffalo Wedding Photographer
Rooted in Connection
SPARKING A MOVEMENT TO EMPOWER WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS
“We are four individual female founders in the nonprofit and forprofit space who immediately sparked when we met. When we met at the vertex of the table, the creative juices got flowing, and we said “‘oh, goodie!’ This feeling must be rooted in love.” •
A bag of popcorn needs a few moments to warm up, but suddenly, a few pops sound, slowly giving way to a melody of kernels dancing about. That is the sensation when talking with Tina Anderson, Juweria Dahir, Dotty Mayle, and Tesha Parker. The warmth begins to grow and pop as they launch into the importance of connections for women. The joy of their camaraderie bursts forth into a familiar, welcoming sound – just like popping corn.
BY JAYME BRESCHARD
WE ARE LIKE THE UN. WE ARE FOUR FEMALE FOUNDERS, BUT WE LOOK DIFFERENT. I AM A BUFFALO TRANSPLANT. WE ALL SPEAK DIFFERENT LANGUAGES; WE COME FROM DIFFERENT SOCIO-ECONOMIC STATUSES.
You would think these four women have been friends for years, but they have only known each other as partners and friends for a few months.
Tesha is the common thread. She is founder of a nonprofit, Rooted in Love, Inc., that provides fresh produce and nonperishable food free of charge to people across the Western NY community. She says she plans to open a community grocery store with wholesale pricing and pay what you can on the east side of Buffalo at the end of September too!
Tesha has worked with Tina at marketing events for professional athletes in the NFL. Tina owns Creative Juices Marketing, a fullservice social media and community management marketing agency. She has been full-time on her own for two years. She also runs Buffalo Kid Entrepreneurs and is passionate about curative film series and interactive film events.
Tesha met Dotty at a similar event with the Delaware Soccer Club. Dotty is founder of Oh Goodie!, a small business that focuses on custom-designed goodie bags and gift baskets.
Tesha and Juweria met through their love for nonprofit work and engaging in community-related events. They partnered during COVID for a food giveaway with HEAL International, an organization Juweria is a board member of that empowers refugees, women, and youth through self-sufficiency. Juweria is Director of Innovation and Entrepreneurship at Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus and also owns JD Vertex, which specializes in urban planning, business coaching, and data evaluation. Her background includes six years of experience in government, which provided her with an understanding
of community needs. Juweria is passionate about supporting small businesses, recognizing their critical role in empowering marginalized communities.
For a few years, She Connects Hub was only an idea; they were the key people Tesha called upon when things got tough. They all met for the first time in a group chat and all described feeling that they entered an energetic force field and left rejuvenated and excited. Tina, Juweria, Dotty, and Tesha want to help communities build wealth together. A job is not wealth; you cannot pass that on. Instead, She Connects Hub encourages women to think about building wealth beyond their 9 to 5, to think beyond limitations and dreams to start a business.
She Connects Hub is a place where nonprofit connects with for-profit. Their focus is on business, because even nonprofits need a business mindset and to generate money. People need the same resources and connections for either pursuit. These four founders have each cultivated successful businesses independently and together can have a much bigger reach. As Tina describes, “There are no blind spots with us. We cover so much ground.”
Juweria explained how various business groups serve different secular groups – black-owned communities offer small-business programs and services; Latino and Hispanic or even affluent white communities each have their own groups of mentorship and business support. However, female founders are largely left out. Tina, Juweria, Dotty and Tesha understood the need to have one group to mesh with, where a woman could cross-pollinate.
The name She Connects Hub is rooted in connections. Connections are important because the first five years are when a business typically fails. But beyond that, they need ongoing mentoring and support. She Connects Hub reflects the community they serve and promotes inclusivity. Women know it is a safe place. The founders are not against men participating, but they do need to be supporters of what the group does. Tina, Juweria, Dotty and Tesha came together as strangers and bonded to help propel each other forward.
Juweria says, “We are like the UN. We are four female founders, but we look different. I am a Buffalo transplant. We all speak different languages; we come from different socio-economic statuses.” It was only when they met in person that the
Juweria
women realized they look different. Personality dynamics came first. But their diversity is certainly a beautiful part of brand development!
Connection in small business, especially for women, is needed for both professional and emotional support. Juggling families and logistics, time is valuable, and networking must be purposeful. If you aren’t continuing the conversation and utilizing each other’s services, it’s not helpful. There can also be huge mentorship divides – for example, most people only talk about success after they achieve it. But what about day-to-day challenges? These are the types of details needed along the way – life skills.
Connections are important because when times are hard, there needs to be someone genuine who can stick around to help. Someone who can give a business owner true advice, help them see exactly where things went wrong and suggest solutions to fix it. Building connections intentionally can sometimes explore topics people are not excited to discuss, such as financial issues, but those difficult conversations with business partners are essential. She Connects Hub offers financial education awareness conversations and events to help women have such complicated conversations.
Throughout the year, the group offers a variety of workshops and events to help women thrive in the
nonprofit or for-profit arenas. In day-to-day interactions since their launch May 2024, women continue to feel comfortable reaching out with questions and seeking recommendations for connections such as female brand marketers and photographers. She Connects Hub offers various events where women can speak in a fun, comfortable, safe environment. They also offer field trips that provide meaningful opportunities to learn.
This October, look for their financial education events, and in November, check out their Buffalo Startup Week, a week full of learning, exposure, and networking.
@sheconnectshub on IG
ADVICE FROM SHECONNECTSHUB’S TINA, JUWERIA, DOTTY
AND TESHA:
1. Go to the library! In many cases, you can find free legal help, free website and design assistance, and access to databases that otherwise cost money.
2. Just because it’s free doesn’t mean you have to take it. Take what fits.
3. You can burn out with too many resources, so select one thing a week or month to learn. Be intentional in what you chase.
4. Follow your intuition. Listen and ask questions, but you don’t need to take everything people tell you.
5. Trust the people who are giving you the resources.
6. Tell people exactly what you are looking for and it will come back to you.
7. Be open-minded and coachable.
8. Have a plan.
PUZZLE
DOWN
1. SOMETHING YOU DO WITH A CAR
2. PART OF A CAR
4. WHAT YOU PAY FOR A CAR
6. SOMETHING YOU GET WHEN YOU BUY A CAR
7. WHAT YOU LOOK FOR IN A CAR
10. WHAT YOU RECEIVE IN A DEALERSHIP
12. A TYPE OF VEHICLE
13. TYPE OF VEHICLE OFTEN SOLD
15. WHERE YOU MIGHT FIND A USED CAR
ACROSS
3. SOMETHING YOU DO TO A CAR
4. SOMETHING YOU DO WITH A CAR
8. PART OF A CAR
9. WHAT THE "J" IN BOB JOHNSON STANDS FOR 11. WHAT YOU MIGHT GET AFTER BUYING A CAR
WHAT BOB JOHNSON AUTO GROUP OFFERS 16. WHAT YOU DO BEFORE BUYING A CAR
5. WHERE YOU MIGHT TAKE YOUR CAR FOR SERVICE
Across
2. A graceful, swift-running antelope of Africa.
3. One who blazes a trail for others to follow through unsettled country or wilderness
4. A garment similar to a jacket but typically more formal.
5. A large freshwater lake in the Sierra Nevada mountains of the United States.
11. A type of ecosystem characterized by grasslands with scattered trees and shrubs, typically found in tropical regions.
12. A popular beach city in California known for its sandy beaches and surfing.
13. The time or date at which the sun crosses the celestial equator, when day and night are of equal length
14. River that runs through the Grand Canyon
Down
1. A Spanish word for "Mountain Range"
3. The physical features of a tract of land.
6. To travel or pass across, over, or through.
7. A former French colony in SE Canada: ceded to Great Britain 1713
8. Of or characteristic of a suburb.
9. A deep gorge, typically with a river flowing through it..
10. A vast, sparsely populated territory in northwestern Canada, known for its rugged wilderness.
