When asked about strategies for older adults to support their mental health during the transition to retirement, St. Louis psychologist Randall Flanery spoke of resilience.
“Resilience is being able to accomplish the things you want to do, even in the face of adversity,” he said. “And one of the factors associated with being resilient is doing something meaningful – being part of something that has greater value than just to yourself, and often doing that with someone else.”
This advice, which transcends age or life stage, is put into practice beautifully by individuals featured across this issue of Ladue News. In contributor Connie Mitchell’s feature on p. 36, local experts speak on how seeking connection and purpose can ease the challenges of a major life change – and even reframe them as opportunities.
On p. 40, Mitchell returns to tell the story of Donnie and Eric Seals, a father-son duo whose 350-mile bike ride from St. Louis to Chicago was recently the subject of the PBS documentary “Bike Vessel.” For Donnie, taking up biking was a “vessel” to better health and longevity after concerns for his heart health arose during his 40s.
The St. Louis County Library was recently recognized on a national scale for its resilience. On p. 12, columnist Drew Gieseke reports on how SLCL won the Jerry Kline Community Impact Prize in recognition of its response to the needs of its neighbors, including efforts to address food and housing insecurity, community education initiatives and more.
Happy reading,
Ashley Klein, Managing Editor
LadueNews.com
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St. Louis takes St. Patrick’s Day celebrations seriously. Preview eight upcoming festivities around town – including parades, a pop-up bar, familyfriendly activities and more – at laduenews.com.
We are pleased to announce Tyler Thornhill has been promoted to President of Janet McAfee. Ty has proven to be a visionary leader who inspires us all to perform at our best. Together with our newly elected Vice President, Madeline Pettey, our company is perfectly positioned to thrive for the next 50 years.
A New CHAPTER
By Maggie Peters > Photos by Christina Kling-Garrett
Kevin Kenney founder, president and CEO of KDR Designer Showrooms and his wife Lori Kenney, along with Brad and Kim Gilmore are thrilled to announce an exciting change of ownership of the iconic KDR Designer Showrooms.
“I am extremely proud that our exquisite assortment of products combined with our amazing team of passionate interior professionals, has influenced luxurious interiors of homes, restaurants, high end hospitality, country clubs, executive office environments and private jet interiors for 34 years, not only in St Louis and Kansas City, but across the country,” Kenney states.
“I am personally grateful for all of the tremendous relationships I have had, the privilege of building with interior designers, architects, contractors, industry executives, and all of our KDR business partners, who we call friends. It is with great pride and joy; I am able to pass along these relationships to like-minded new ownership to ensure the future of KDR Designer Showrooms for generations to come with Brad and Kim Gilmore and their family assuming the ownership of KDR.”
KDR started in 1991 in Maryland Heights in the Westport business district with 1,500 square feet of space. Today KDR’s two showrooms in St Louis and Kansas City occupy 72,000 square feet of curated high-end home furnishings, fabrics, wallcoverings, carpets, rugs, lighting and window coverings. KDR St. Louis anchors the main building at the Interior
Design Center of St Louis, home to nine locally owned businesses all providing products and services to the interior design industry.
“Excitement is the first word that comes to mind as we take this next step,” says Brad Gilmore. A seasoned accounting professional with more than 35 years of experience. Gilmore has specialized in tax, accounting operations, acquisitions and more. “We are truly thrilled to continue delivering exceptional customer service and high-quality products to the design community. Equally, we’re excited to collaborate and grow alongside the talented professionals—customers, vendors, and team members—who have been integral to KDR’s success.”
Outside of work the Gilmores cherish quality time spent with their family, including their two amazing sons, Tyler and Brayden. They value the connections they have with friends and family and always make time to enjoy life outside the office.
“Family values have always been at the heart of this company, and we are committed to honoring the legacy that Kevin and the team have built,” Kim Gimlore adds. With a passion for interior design, she and her husband have experience renovating and redesigning homes together. “We look forward to carrying that tradition forward, fostering strong relationships, and growing together
with the design community for years to come.”
KDR has 60 iconic luxury brands in indoor and outdoor furnishings displayed in 27,000 square feet, serving homeowners, restaurants, hotels and others. Over 300,000 samples are on display of the world’s leading brands of fabrics and wallcoverings, including an exclusive Phillip Jeffries Wallcovering gallery, an exclusive Stark Carpet Gallery, a new Visual Comfort lighting gallery, and a new window covering department featuring exclusive Hartmann & Forbes sustainable window coverings.
KDR’s primary business is with trade professionals to ensure a client’s money is well spent on a cohesive professional design they can be proud of. Retail customers are also welcome to buy products at a different price structure and those needing comprehensive design services are referred to one of five design studios at the Interior Design Center or to one of the many interior designers who are loyal customers of KDR.
“KDR has been making St. Louis interiors spectacular for 34 years,” Kenney concludes. “I’m looking forward to seeing the Gilmores carry the stellar KDR reputation forward for decades to come.”
KDR Designer Showrooms, 11660 Page Service Drive, St. Louis, 314-993-5020, kdrshowrooms.com
Family values have always been at the heart of this company, and we are committed to honoring the legacy that Kevin and the team have built.
– KIM GILMORE
An Elemental Battle
By Sheila Oliveri
March weather can be erratic in St. Louis. Within a day, we might experience sun, rain, snow, wind and ice, leaving us guessing about what type of clothing best fits the day ahead. Ready Readers recommends a book featuring a perfect March story: “The North Wind and the Sun,” a contemporary retelling of an Aesop’s fable by author and illustrator Philip Stead.
Three elderly sisters living together in a drafty house prepare to take a walk. The trio carefully pull on their coats, patched many times over the years, and walk outside. Seeing the sisters in their brightly colored coats brings joy to the Sun watching from above, but the brusque North Wind feels anger. He blusters his disdain to the Sun boasting, “I have toppled castle walls, sent mighty ships to the bottom of the sea, pulled ancient trees from their roots and pounded mountains into sand. These patchwork coats are no protection from me. I am the great North Wind.” The wise Sun challenges the Wind saying, “Surely, you are very strong. But I am strong too. I can easily pull the coats
from the sisters’ backs.”
With the challenge set clearly before him, the North Wind begins to blow, demolishing castles, wrecking ships and more. The sisters huddle closely together, clutching their coats firmly. Wild with rage, the North Wind blows with a fury that reaches faraway lands, but still the women cling together. Exhausted by his efforts, the North Wind collapses and blows no more. The Sun, knowing that gentleness is often more effective than force, casts down her warmth to the Earth below. Flowers bloom, animals emerge from winter dens, birds sing, and the three sisters shed their coats, listening to the hum of life around them. The sisters thank the Sun for her gentle warmth, leaving the Wind spent, his fury bested by calm.
Ready Readers, a St. Louis early literacy nonprofit, brings the joy and power of literacy to more than 16,000 preschoolers living in low-income areas of our community. Learn how you can join the effort at readyreaders.org.
Image supplied
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In early February 2025, St. Louis County Library announced it received the 2024–25 Jerry Kline Community Impact Prize. The sixth annual award, which carries a $250,000 prize purse, recognizes public libraries nationwide as vital assets in the communities they serve. SLCL stands out as one of the best in the country thanks to its commitment to standing up for the regional community, removing barriers and increasing access to library services.
“Together with our community partners, we provide essential services such as meals, diapers, technology, tutoring, notaries, and social work services at our branches,” SLCL assistant communications director Jennifer McBride says. “Libraries move people forward wherever they are in life – and we see the impact of that work every day.
Developed in partnership with the Gerald M. Kline Family Foundation and trade publication Library Journal, the Jerry Kline Community Impact Prize selects award recipients based on various factors, including local government collaboration, community inclusion for underserved populations, innovative services and more.
McBride says the application process took four months from start to finish. The final application included three letters of support from community partners and civic leaders, with at least one from an elected civic official. SLCL also submitted supporting materials, including photos, media coverage and videos.
SLCL is the busiest public library in Missouri. In 2024, it circulated more than 11 million items, including books, DVDs, eMedia, video games, periodicals and CDs. But the 20-branch library district does more than offer media.
Through the past several years, SLCL evolved to meet the changing needs of the communities it serves, particularly in helping address food insecurity and digital equity. To offer innovative programming that meets these needs, the library system partners with local nonprofits, key businesses, school districts and governments at all levels.
“During COVID, this meant providing increased access to digital services, meals, diapers and other critical resources,” McBride says. “In 2023, we introduced social workers at five branches to provide support to patrons around issues such as food insecurity, housing, employment, substance use and child care assistance. That program was expanded last year when we added a sixth social worker due to increased demand.”
All 20 SLCL branches were modernized during the district’s Your Library Renewed campaign. This sprawling project – approved as a $0.06 tax increase in 2012 – included constructing new and renovated buildings that offer dynamic children’s areas, quiet reading rooms, collaborative workspaces, community meeting rooms and more. Each branch offers programs that resonate with their patrons.
Libraries move people forward wherever they are in life – and we see the impact of that work every day.
“This might look like yoga, line dancing, tech classes, genealogy research, community gardens, teen movie nights, ESL classes and virtual programming,” McBride says. “We also offer books, notary services, narcan kits, homebound service for seniors, an online program for adults to obtain a high school diploma, and a Tap In Center to help individuals recall bench warrants and connect with local support services.”
SLCL plans to use the award money to recognize the work of its employees.
St. Louis County Library, multiple locations, 314-994-3300, slcl.org
–JENNIFEr McBrIDE, SLcL aSSISTaNT cOMMUNIcaTIONS DIrEcTOr
Photo courtesy of St. Louis county Library
Snacking Safely
By Dr. Diana Roukoz
Feeding infants should be a fun and exploratory experience. It marks a developmental milestone and sets the stage for more social interactions, speech and language experiences – not to mention the building blocks for nutrition. It shouldn’t be hard; rather, it should be an enjoyable and intuitive process. For many parents, however, food allergies have caused concerns and fears when it comes time to introduce your baby to solid foods.
WHAT IS A FOOD ALLERGY?
A food allergy is an adverse immune system reaction that your child’s body has to a food. An estimated one in 13 children in the U.S. have a food allergy. These reactions are different from food intolerances, which are not mediated by the immune system. Your child’s immune system recognizes a food as harmful and then triggers Immunoglobulin E antibodies (IgE) to “attack.” When IgE is released, it triggers the release of a chemical known as histamine. It is the histamine that causes some of the most common signs of a food allergy reaction.
Any food can cause an allergic reaction, but the most common foods, collectively known as the Top Nine, include eggs, dairy, peanuts, tree nuts, fish and shellfish, soy, sesame and wheat. These foods account for more than 90% of serious allergic reactions.
INTRODUCTION OF ALLERGENIC FOODS
When the solid foods discussion begins, pediatricians should highlight developmental readiness and how to introduce potentially allergenic foods. The newest recommendations suggest that early introduction of known potential allergenic foods (and repeated exposures) can play a role in food allergy prevention. Research is still being conducted into the possible environmental and genetic factors. If the child has any risk factors
such as asthma, severe eczema or a family history, it’s important to discuss them with your pediatrician.
Here are some key tips for introducing potentially allergenic foods to your child:
Once your child has tried some beginner foods, introduce age-appropriate forms of the potentially allergenic foods when your child is showing interest, typically between the ages of 4 to 6 months.
Start with small amounts.
Introduce one new potentially allergenic food at a time. (You can build on foods that you have already introduced).
Watch for a reaction. These reactions typically occur within minutes to four hours. If a reaction occurs, call your pediatrician (or 911 if symptoms are life-threatening).
If there is no reaction, keep consistently offering the new food.
For more information, please visit mercy.net/laduenews.
Dr. Diana Roukoz is a general pediatrician who has been with Mercy since 2014.
Take your retirement to new heights with elevated senior living at aberdeen heights. Offering an expansive range of services and amenities, maintenance-free living and a thriving social scene, this community goes above and beyond to ensure your retirement hits all the high notes. call today to schedule your personal appointment!
The Gatesworth 1 McKnight Place, 314-993-0111, thegatesworth.com
The Gatesworth Fitness center offer our residents a state-of-the-art space to stay active and healthy. With expert trainers, personalized programs, and equipment designed for all fitness levels, residents enjoy strength training, balance exercises, and wellness classes. It’s a welcoming environment that promotes mobility, independence, and overall well-being.
By Maggie Peters
Independence Center
4245 Forest Park Ave., 314-533-4245, independencecenter.org
Mental illness touches every person at some point in their lives, directly through diagnosis or indirectly, through a family member’s or friend’s own struggles. Independence center provides the resources and community for those managing a serious and persistent mental illness to regain the independence to live a healthy, quality life.
Three Rivers Concierge Medicine
456 N. New Ballas Road, 314-744-5914, threeriversmedicine.com
healthcare should be about you – your time, your concerns and your wellbeing. That’s why Three rivers concierge Medicine’s patient-first model features unparalleled access, expert guidance, and proactive wellness planning. reach out today and experience healthcare the way it should be.
The Gellman Team ExP Realty 314-336-1991, thegellmanteam.com
Your living environment shapes your health. When choosing a home, consider walkability—proximity to parks, trails, and sidewalks can encourage daily movement, boosting both physical and mental wellbeing. Something else to consider is natural light, which helps boost your Vitamin D, improves your mood, can help regulate sleep, and increases your productivity and focus.
aberdeen heights
photo by Jerry Naunheim Jr.; The Gatesworth
photo by Gregg Goldman Three rivers concierge Medicine photo by henry David Photography
MASTERMix
By Nancy Robinson > Photos supplied
A mélange of unexpected traditional and contemporary pieces leads to truly memorable spaces.
Baker Furniture anchors the room with a streamlined sofa and table flanked by two ornate royal Swan chairs with a carved mahogany solid frame. The chairs are shown in the standard Venetian finish accented with worn gilt and blue velvet upholstery. (kdrshowrooms.com)
Maitland Smith’s Blue crystal vase features hand-beveled designs that reveal an amber crystal interior. The blue color transitions to a warm amber at the stem. (kdrshowrooms.com)
Pierre Frey’s Fleurs de Pekin in the sapphire colorway is a large-scale carpet pattern taken from an 18th-century painted silk preserved in the Pierre Fey archives. The hand-tufted rug is composed of bamboo viscose and wool fibers. (greatcoverupdesign.com)
Discoveracommunitythatgoesaboveandbeyondtoen sureyourretirementhitsone highnoteafteranother.Everymeal—moredeliciousthanthelast.Everyactivity—more excitingthanyouhopedfor.Everyfriend ship—moreenr ichingthanyouimagined.Withan expansiverangeofservicesandamenities,maintenance-freeliving,andat hr ivingsocial scene,it’seasytoreachnewh ei ghtsinretirementatAberdeenH ei ghts.
Funky & Fabulous
By Alecia Humphreys > Photos by Lisa Mitchell Photo by Lisa Mitchell
What began as a blank canvas is now a nursery bursting with playful patterns and a bold color palette thanks to Ashley Obradovits, interior design team lead at Karr Bick Kitchen + Bath.
“There is nothing I love more than walking into an all-white room to imagine all the
possibilities,” Obradovits says.
Obradovits says the redesign was inspired by Gulf Livery racing and its iconic blue and orange color palette. “The dad is a big car enthusiast, and it gave us our color palette to run with,” Obradovits says.
The ceiling wallpaper, featuring a geometric pale-blue and white pattern, was one of the first elements installed. “This was such a huge space, and although wallpawper is traditionally used to wrap the walls, we thought highlighting the ceiling height and using a two-tone blue on the wall would give it a fun vibe,” Obradovits says. “The client has fun, funky taste, and we leaned into each other to take things up a notch.”
For example, Obradovits’ signature
whimsical style comes through in the crib niche, which features a bright orange grasscloth backdrop and playful sconces. Funky curtains tie in the geometric motif, and a custom-designed bookcase offers space to showcase favorite toys and books that can be replaced with other favorite memorabilia as the child grows.
“I’m obsessed with how this space turned out,” Obradovits says. “Since we photographed this room it has already been switched over to a big boy room. … I love how this space will grow with him and only minor swaps will be needed as he ages.”
By Maggie Peters > Photos courtesy of Karr Bick Kitchen + Bath
Whether you’re looking to freshen up a space or create a brand new one, Karr Bick Kitchen + Bath is the perfect partner for your next home project.
Since Jenny and Todd Rausch purchased Karr Bick in 2008, their goal has been to help families create spaces that suited both their aesthetic taste and their lifestyle. Together, they’ve grown the company into a place where you can get everything from a construction team for whole home makeovers, to a shop for the final details that bring a room together.
“We grew naturally,” Jenny Rausch explains. “A lot of clients began to ask us for help on the design aspects as well as the construction and from there it made sense to create an interior design department.”
She adds that clients’ interest in Karr Bick’s decor choices grew to the point where it was easier for her to source different pieces and offer them in a boutique within their expansive showroom. “It also gives me an excuse to shop more - which I already love to do,” she says.
Today clients can go to Karr Bick for any individual need or for the full experienceworking with Karr Bick’s teams from beginning to end to create a space that is perfectly theirs. Additionally, by having the construction team and designers all under one roof, clients have a clear line of communication and a dedicated team working together.
“Clients usually use us for everything because when you have that kind of communication between everyone, projects run a lot smoother,” Rausch says.
You can easily go online to set up a consultation at their showroom where you can share the size, scope and goals of your project. With a Karr Bick space, you know you’ll not only get something beautiful but also homey and functional, no matter your style.
“For example, contemporary spaces can sometimes end up looking cold and sterile; we can give you a modern look while still having the space feel liveable for you and your family,” Rausch adds. “When neighborhoods do home tours, people always say they know a Karr Bick home by how cozy it feels.”
Karr Bick’s goal is to create rooms that are #NothingOrdinary. If you’re looking for a space that is uniquely yours, and a team that will work with you from inspiration to installation, reach out today.
When neighborhoods do home tours, people always say they know a Karr Bick home by how cozy it feels.
– TODD RAUSCH
T4 RUTHERFORD LANE • TOWN AND COUNTRY
his exceptional residence, located in the heart of Town and Country on a private cobblestone street at the end of a cul-de-sac, offers a circular drive, three-car garage, and a large lot. Meticulously maintained and upgraded, step through the mahogany front door to a lightfilled and inviting home with 9-foot ceilings, expansive windows, a new wrought iron staircase, and exquisite woodwork throughout. The formal dining room, den with custom bookshelves, and two-story great room with a fireplace and wet bar create perfect spaces for entertaining, while the bright kitchen connects to the breakfast area and hearth room, leading to the patio. The primary suite includes custom “his” and “her” closets and a luxurious bathroom. Upstairs, three bedrooms share two completely remodeled bathrooms. The walkout lower level has a family room, bathroom, and additional living space. This home offers unparalleled living with many upgrades in a prime location.
This five bedroom three full bathroom and two half bathroom home in Town and Country is listed for $1,699,900.
Local party planners know how to pull off epic kids’ parties, and here, they’re sharing crowd-pleasing themes for 2025.
Local party planners know how to pull off epic kids’ parties, and here, they’re sharing crowd-pleasing themes for 2025.
THE ERAS PARTY
THE ERAS PARTY
Celebrating a Swiftie? Whether they’ve experienced Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour in person or not, they’ll love the opportunity to live their “very own concert adventure” at Sweet & Sassy salon and spa, which offers different makeover-themed parties ideal for younger girls. This package includes costumes, friendship bracelets, a performance stage and karaoke.
Celebrating a Swiftie? Whether they’ve experienced Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour in person or not, they’ll love the opportunity to live their “very own concert adventure” at Sweet & Sassy salon and spa, which offers different makeover-themed parties ideal for younger girls. This package includes costumes, friendship bracelets, a performance stage and karaoke.
FOR THE CREATIVES
FOR THE CREATIVES
For teenagers, decorate your home or venue according to their favorite era, such as with moody blues and maroon for the “Midnights” album, with disco ball balloons from Party Hop Shop in Webster Groves. Encourage guests to arrive in attire representing their favorite era, and make friendship bracelets together during the party.
For teenagers, decorate your home or venue according to their favorite era, such as with moody blues and maroon for the “Midnights” album, with disco ball balloons from Party Hop Shop in Webster Groves. Encourage guests to arrive in attire representing their favorite era, and make friendship bracelets together during the party.
Party Hop Shop, 20 Allen Ave #160, Webster Groves, partyhopshop.com
Party Hop Shop, 20 Allen Ave #160, Webster Groves, partyhopshop.com
Sweet & Sassy, 17B West County Center, St. Louis, 314-597-6394, sweetandsassy.com/st-louis
Sweet & Sassy, 17B West County Center, St. Louis, 314-597-6394, sweetandsassy.com/st-louis
A GAMER’S DREAM
A GAMER’S DREAM
For preteens who like to stay up late (and for the parents who’ll let them), an all-night gaming party is a real treat. The Tent Boutique plans next-level sleepovers in and around St. Louis, and they offer a Glowing Gamer package with twin-size air mattresses, bedding, breakfast trays, party favors, and glow-in-the-dark decorations. “We provide black lights for the clients, and they get to see everything light up at night,” founder LaTonya McGee says. This theme works best for groups of five or less, in a spacious entertaining area with available outlets and a multiplayer gaming system.
For preteens who like to stay up late (and for the parents who’ll let them), an all-night gaming party is a real treat. The Tent Boutique plans next-level sleepovers in and around St. Louis, and they offer a Glowing Gamer package with twin-size air mattresses, bedding, breakfast trays, party favors, and glow-in-the-dark decorations. “We provide black lights for the clients, and they get to see everything light up at night,” founder LaTonya McGee says. This theme works best for groups of five or less, in a spacious entertaining area with available outlets and a multiplayer gaming system.
The Tent Boutique, thetentboutique.com
The Tent Boutique, thetentboutique.com
Kidz Play STL owner Jamean Flowers says that both preteens and younger kids are enjoying fashion-forward crafts. Lately, kids 9 and older are especially loving her shoelace charm bar and hoodie design activity, and younger kids have fun adding sticky patches to denim jackets. “These activities, paired with expert guidance, ensured every child left with a oneof-a-kind creation they were proud to wear,” Flowers says about a recent craft party.
Kidz Play STL owner Jamean Flowers says that both preteens and younger kids are enjoying fashion-forward crafts. Lately, kids 9 and older are especially loving her shoelace charm bar and hoodie design activity, and younger kids have fun adding sticky patches to denim jackets. “These activities, paired with expert guidance, ensured every child left with a oneof-a-kind creation they were proud to wear,” Flowers says about a recent craft party.
Kidz Play STL, 580-284-3291, kidzplaystl.com
Kidz Play STL, 580-284-3291, kidzplaystl.com
SUPERHERO SOIREE
SUPERHERO SOIREE
St. Louis Children’s Party and Events offers a superhero package with cape- and mask-decorating materials and the option to invite a real-life superhero to the party. “After crafting their superhero attire, the fun continues with a series of exciting games,” planner Laura Jordan says. “Kids will race through obstacle courses, jump into action-packed missions, and even show off their strength in fun challenges like ‘Save the City’ or ‘Superhero Dodgeball!’”
St. Louis Children’s Party and Events offers a superhero package with cape- and mask-decorating materials and the option to invite a real-life superhero to the party. “After crafting their superhero attire, the fun continues with a series of exciting games,” planner Laura Jordan says. “Kids will race through obstacle courses, jump into action-packed missions, and even show off their strength in fun challenges like ‘Save the City’ or ‘Superhero Dodgeball!’”
St. Louis Children’s Party and Events, 636-251-3388, stlchildrensparty.com
St. Louis Children’s Party and Events, 636-251-3388, stlchildrensparty.com
TIMELESS TEA PARTY
TIMELESS TEA PARTY
This theme is relevant and elegant for all age groups and works with any drink. A fairytale or royal tea time is delightful for younger guests: “It’s an experience that transports children to a world of magic, teaching them about kindness, elegance, and the joy of sharing with others,” Jordan says. St. Louis Children’s Party and Events offers tea party packages with a charming table setup, tiaras and dresses. Jordan recommends recruiting a real-life princess from Dream Time Princess Events or Enchanted Events. For older guests, request an elevated experience from Alpaca Picnic, a St. Louisbased business specializing in exquisite tablescapes.
This theme is relevant and elegant for all age groups and works with any drink. A fairytale or royal tea time is delightful for younger guests: “It’s an experience that transports children to a world of magic, teaching them about kindness, elegance, and the joy of sharing with others,” Jordan says. St. Louis Children’s Party and Events offers tea party packages with a charming table setup, tiaras and dresses. Jordan recommends recruiting a real-life princess from Dream Time Princess Events or Enchanted Events. For older guests, request an elevated experience from Alpaca Picnic, a St. Louisbased business specializing in exquisite tablescapes.
Alpaca Picnic, alpacapicnic.com
Alpaca Picnic, alpacapicnic.com
Dream Time Princess Events, 314-640-4855, dreamtimeprincessevents.com
Dream Time Princess Events, 314-640-4855, dreamtimeprincessevents.com
Photo courtesy of St. Louis children’s Party and Events
Photo courtesy of The Tent Boutique
Photo courtesy of St. Louis children’s Party and Events
Photo courtesy of The Tent Boutique
FashionForward
By
Introducing Becky Domyan, the fresh face leading Saint Louis Fashion Fund into the future. To kickstart 2025, the Gateway City’s voice of fashion named Domyan as new executive director. Since 2018 she has served as senior vice president and market manager for broadcasting company Audacy, Inc. in St. Louis and Wichita, a role she will continue along with her duties at the Fund. LN spoke with Domyan about her passions, from leadership to fashion, and plans for the Fund’s future following its successful first decade.
What inspires your personal style?
My personal style is truly my art. I can’t draw, paint or sew, so putting my outfit together each day has always been my creative outlet, ever since I was a young child. I am inspired by fashion that is classy with an edge and am not afraid to take fashion risks. I really like to have something interesting pulled into all my looks. Whether it is a unique jacket, accessory, or layering or wearing something in an unexpected way, experimentation is a key to
finding personal style. I tend to be very intentional and appropriate for the occasion I am attending but want my personality to shine through my clothing as well. If I have to [decide] to underdress or overdress, I always go with the latter – “go big or go home” is my fashion mantra.
Share your plans for the Fund’s future.
I have spent significant time listening and learning as a [Fund] board member, and we truly have three “customers” we serve: students, fashion professionals (designers and brands) and our community. My plan is to connect the dots and to amplify and streamline the great work we have already done to serve our fashion community in meaningful, sustainable ways. It is about growing the industry in St. Louis and beyond, and that starts with one-on-one connections that make a difference.
Tell us about this year’s programs and events.
Our core, free annual event is Speaking of Fashion, in partnership with Washington University … where we bring in global designers to St. Louis to share their knowledge with our fashion communities. We have had amazing designers, such as Michael Kors, Diane Von Furstenberg and the late Andre Leon Talley. We will also continue our Fashion Futures program, where we help students connect with companies in St. Louis that can help them find the right opportunity in the industry post-graduation. New for this year is our Susan Sherman Scholarship for college students pursuing a career in fashion.
How will the Fund make its mark in 2025?
This year, the fashion economy is expected to generate $1.8 trillion, with St. Louis generating more than $7.7 billion alone. We will continue to put a spotlight on the amazing talent in St. Louis [and] also elevate our [city’s] footprint on the global map. In 2025, we are going to be one step closer to reminding the world that St. Louis was not just a fashion capital in the past, but it will make its triumphant return in the near future.
Saint Louis Fashion Fund, saintlouisfashionfund.org
Brittany Nay > Photos courtesy of St. Louis Fashion Fund
Fund co-founder and board chair Susan Sherman presents Becky Domyan with “Volunteer of the Year award” in 2024
Saint Louis Fashion Fund board members
Fleur de Thé
Story and photos by Mabel Suen
In Tower Grove South, a new tearoom offers an internationally inspired luxury tea experience. Fleur de Thé opened in October, offering unique prix fixe options inspired by the high tea and afternoon tea traditions of South Africa, France, England and India.
The concept, which gets its name from the French word for tea, “thé,” comes from owner and self-proclaimed “teapreneur,” Colleen Vucinovich. The native of Johannesburg, South Africa, hopes to share her passion for international tea culture with the St. Louis community, backed by a team that includes her daughter, Tatjana, and husband, Craig. “Our wedding was a morning tea, and that’s where my romance with tea started,” Vucinovich says.
For the past 35 years, Vucinovich has perfected a recipe for chocolate mousse, and she and her husband were eager to share it in the type of setting they’ve dreamt of for years. “We wanted to nurture our idea for having a place where people can gather to not only satisfy their hunger for food but for community and conversation,” she says. “That’s what this place represents for us.”
The mousse is a recurring signature with unique variations throughout Fleur de Thé’s fusion menu, which draws inspiration from the couple’s travels. “We’ve had high tea in a lot of cool places, and I felt like there was a marriage between the mousse product I make and the high tea experience,” Vucinovich says.
Guests can currently choose from four different experiences – Capetown South African high tea, Versailles French high tea, Windsor English afternoon tea and Udaipur Indian high tea. The Capetown option, for instance, features peri-peri finger sandwiches, traditional scones, a selection of pastries and dark chocolate mousse infused with chili oil. The Udaipur
offers completely vegan items, including a chaiinfused chia seed pudding.
The tea salon features Palais des Thés brand teas from Paris, with 20 different options including white, green, oolong, black and dark (fermented) teas, and caffeine-free options. From the bar, choose from a variety of sparkling tea and mocktails options such as the Tea Posy with Water Garden tea, Abstinence Cape Floral and grenadine. “All of our cocktails have a botanical note to them, and they’re either made with tea we steep or made with Copenhagen Sparkling Tea imported from Denmark,” Vucinovich says. Tea flights and light tea options are also available at the bar, including
pots of tea and scones.
“I’ve been delighted with how welcoming St. Louis is to a diversity of food and experiences. People are so eager to learn about different flavors and different food,” Vucinovich says. “It’s been so rewarding to be able to share our tea and food culture with guests.”
Fleur de Thé offers its high tea experience Wednesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. by reservation only. Its mocktail salon is open to the public Thursday through Saturday from 5 to 8 p.m.
Fleur de Thé, 4168 Juniata St., St. Louis, 314-750-5395, tearoomstlouis.com
GrEaTEr ST. LOUIS rESTaUraNT aSSOcIaTION aND MISSOUrI rESTaUraNT aSSOcIaTION
Legacy Ball and Awards Dinner
Legacy Ball and Awards Dinner
TThe Greater St. Louis Restaurant Association and the Missouri Restaurant Association joined forces to host their inaugural awards dinner and Legacy Ball at Rose of the Hill, bringing together industry leaders, friends and family for a night of celebration. Guests were welcomed with handcrafted cocktails and appetizers before sitting down for a multi-course dinner and awards ceremony honoring the region’s top food hospitality icons. Among the evening’s recipients, Imo’s Pizza and Syberg’s Family of Restaurants received the Distinguished Service Award, and Ronnoco Coffee was named Partner of the Year. The night’s highest honor, Restaurateur of the Year, was awarded to George and Kris Hansford, owners of Trainwreck Saloon in Rock Hill. Additionally, GSTLRA announced Van DeGregorio as its incoming President.
he Greater St. Louis Restaurant Association and the Missouri Restaurant Association joined forces to host their inaugural awards dinner and Legacy Ball at Rose of the Hill, bringing together industry leaders, friends and family for a night of celebration. Guests were welcomed with handcrafted cocktails and appetizers before sitting down for a multi-course dinner and awards ceremony honoring the region’s top food hospitality icons. Among the evening’s recipients, Imo’s Pizza and Syberg’s Family of Restaurants received the Distinguished Service Award, and Ronnoco Coffee was named Partner of the Year. The night’s highest honor, Restaurateur of the Year, was awarded to George and Kris Hansford, owners of Trainwreck Saloon in Rock Hill. Additionally, GSTLRA announced Van DeGregorio as its incoming President.
Through networking, education and advocacy, MRA and GSTLRA continue to strengthen and promote St. Louis’ hospitality industry.
Through networking, education and advocacy, MRA and GSTLRA continue to strengthen and promote St. Louis’ hospitality industry.
Visit laduenews.com to see more photos from this event >
Visit laduenews.com to see more photos from this event >
This event showcases the immense talent we have at every level of the restaurant industry here in St. Louis – from high school students training in the hospitality industry to nationally recognized chefs who now own multiple restaurants. Also, the event is a great fundraiser for the education arm of the Missouri Restaurant Association, which is vital in continuing our mission of getting young people interested in a career in the hospitality industry.
This event showcases the immense talent we have at every level of the restaurant industry here in St. Louis – from high school students training in the hospitality industry to nationally recognized chefs who now own multiple restaurants. Also, the event is a great fundraiser for the education arm of the Missouri Restaurant Association, which is vital in continuing our mission of getting young people interested in a career in the hospitality industry.
– Van DeGregorio
– Van DeGregorio INCOMING GSTLRA PRESIDENT
James clayton, Douglas Kohler
amanda and Bill Kaatman
armon Lasker, Natasha Fuller
Story and photos by James Anderson
Brett Syberg, George hansford, rick and Krik Syberg, Gregory Pantukhoff
Martha and Dennis Moore, Quentin Dunk, Therese Favazza
Kerry, Paul, Frani, roland and heather DeGregorio
Daisy hudspeth, Jordan Goodman, Maddy Knutson, Diego Gonzalez
James clayton, Douglas Kohler
amanda and Bill Kaatman
armon Lasker, Natasha Fuller
Story and photos by James Anderson
Brett Syberg, George hansford, rick and Krik Syberg, Gregory Pantukhoff
Martha and Dennis Moore, Quentin Dunk, Therese Favazza
Kerry, Paul, Frani, roland and heather DeGregorio
Daisy hudspeth, Jordan Goodman, Maddy Knutson, Diego Gonzalez
carITaS FaMILY SOLUTIONS
carITaS FaMILY SOLUTIONS
Twelth Annual Heart & Soul Gala
Twelth Annual Heart & Soul Gala
CCaritas Family Solutions hosted its 12th Annual Heart & Soul gala at The Regency in O’Fallon, Illinois, this February, bringing together guests for an evening of cocktails, dinner and fundraising. Attendees participated in a live auction, raffles and silent auction displays – all in support of CFS’s vital programs. KSDK’s Michelle Li emceed the event, delivering opening remarks before welcoming Caritas CEO Gary Huelsmann to the stage to highlight the organization’s impact on the community. The evening’s highest honor, the 2025 Heart & Soul Award, was presented to foster parents Karen and Dan Krankel, who have provided a loving and supportive home to more than 300 children since 1981.
aritas Family Solutions hosted its 12th Annual Heart & Soul gala at The Regency in O’Fallon, Illinois, this February, bringing together guests for an evening of cocktails, dinner and fundraising. Attendees participated in a live auction, raffles and silent auction displays – all in support of CFS’s vital programs. KSDK’s Michelle Li emceed the event, delivering opening remarks before welcoming Caritas CEO Gary Huelsmann to the stage to highlight the organization’s impact on the community. The evening’s highest honor, the 2025 Heart & Soul Award, was presented to foster parents Karen and Dan Krankel, who have provided a loving and supportive home to more than 300 children since 1981.
Proceeds from the event, including the live auction, will help CFS continue offering essential child welfare, behavioral health and community-based services throughout the region.
Proceeds from the event, including the live auction, will help CFS continue offering essential child welfare, behavioral health and community-based services throughout the region.
Visit laduenews.com to see more photos from this event >
Visit laduenews.com to see more photos from this event >
more than 6,300 people annually, including 1,700 foster children throughout Southern Illinois and the Metro East region. We serve people through a variety of ways, such as our emergency shelter, our foster care and intact family services programs, and assisted living for seniors and independent living for adults with disabilities. Our goal is to strengthen the well-being of children and families in order to create healthy relationships, loving homes and strong communities.
Caritas Family Solutions currently serves more than 6,300 people annually, including 1,700 foster children throughout Southern Illinois and the Metro East region. We serve people through a variety of ways, such as our emergency shelter, our foster care and intact family services programs, and assisted living for seniors and independent living for adults with disabilities. Our goal is to strengthen the well-being of children and families in order to create healthy relationships, loving homes and strong communities.
Caritas Family Solutions currently serves more than 6,300 people annually, including 1,700 foster children throughout Southern Illinois and the Metro East region. We serve people through a variety of ways, such as our emergency shelter, our foster care and intact family services programs, and assisted living for seniors and independent living for adults with disabilities. Our goal is to strengthen the well-being of children and families in order to create healthy relationships, loving homes and strong communities.
– Gary Huelsmann
Kevin and Monique Green
Evon and Timothy Taylor
Bethany and James Krankel
Mike and Sherri Keefe, Steve and Jennifer Melichar, Gary huelsmann
Bonni Burns, Julio Velazquez, Veronica ambuehl, Jessica Williams
adam Jokisch, Michelle Li
Ben and Keely Stephens
Story and photos by James Anderson
Kevin and Monique Green
Evon and Timothy Taylor
Bethany and James Krankel
Mike and Sherri Keefe, Steve and Jennifer Melichar, Gary huelsmann
Bonni Burns, Julio Velazquez, Veronica ambuehl, Jessica Williams
adam Jokisch, Michelle Li
Ben and Keely Stephens
Story and photos by James Anderson
Kevin and Monique Green
Bethany and James Krankel
Ben and Keely Stephens
To, NotFrom Retiring Retiring To, NotFrom Retiring Retiring To, NotFrom Retiring Retiring
NotFrom Retiring Retiring To, NotFrom Retiring Retiring To, NotFrom Retiring Retiring
By Connie Mitchell
By Connie Mitchell
EXPERTS SHARE ADVICE ON SUPPORTING MENTAL HEALTH DURING THE TRANSITION INTO RETIREMENT.
The average American man can expect to live to about 75 years old, and women’s average life expectancy is about 80, according to data compiled in 2022 by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Even if an individual plans to continue working until the age of 65, that leaves at least a decade of life without employment, and the transition from career to retirement isn’t always easy.
Many people define themselves by their work, and stripping that away is a jolt that requires some mental and emotional preparation. Beyond financial planning that begins years before retirement, people should start envisioning what retirement looks like well before they plan to stop working, says Marla Berg-Weger, a professor emerita in social work and director of the Geriatric Workforce Enhancement Program at Saint Louis University. One strategy involves developing a passion or hobby to pursue in retirement, while others choose to retire without specific plans and see what piques their interest during the initial months.
“There are so many opportunities out there [for how] to spend your time and do it in a meaningful way,” Berg-Weger says. “You can take up that hobby. You can choose to give back to others. You can spend more time with family and friends.”
Identifying the skills you relied on in the workplace and applying them to volunteer opportunities is another way to remain involved with the community and continue
to nurture a sense of purpose, adds Max Zubatsky, an associate professor in family and community medicine at SLU and the director of the Family Center for Healthy Aging. For example, professionals can help a nonprofit with newsletters or social media, or accountants can lend skills to organizational budgeting. Berg-Weger adds that many retired people serve on boards and provide leadership to causes and organizations they support.
Although these strategies can help provide ongoing connection and contributions outside a traditional workplace, some older adults are choosing to “retire in place.” Randall Flanery, a psychologist and founding director of the St. Louis Behavioral Medicine Institute's dialectical behavior therapy program, is among that group. Now 72, Flanery began reducing his work hours a few years ago. He enjoys continuing to work but with less urgency than a 40-hour workweek demands.
“Rather than a hard stop to your employment, this allows you to reduce your hours and reallocate them so you can continue to be involved,” he says. “I’m very fortunate that I have an organization that’s willing to do that, and I was able to think ahead. It’s worked out surprisingly well.”
Flanery realizes, however, that many people have inflexible employers, and retiring in place might not be an option. He advises clients who seek help with the transition to retirement to consider what provides the most
life satisfaction and begin looking for creative ways to incorporate those things into retirement. This is part of being resilient, he says.
“Resilience is being able to accomplish the things you want to do, even in the face of adversity. And one of the factors associated with being resilient is doing something meaningful – being part of something that has greater value than just to yourself, and often doing that with someone else,” Flanery says. “Aging itself involves some adversity, and if you can approach it by proactively achieving connection, meaning and involvement, it will help you with all the things that come your way. Just a random act of kindness can enhance that feeling of connection.”
Resilience can be nurtured in the years preceding retirement. “It’s a mindset and a willingness to look for opportunities, even as you can’t do all the things you used to do,” he says. One of the challenges of aging and retirement is the possibility of outliving friends and loved ones. Spending time with younger generations can help, he adds. Volunteering at schools or youth programs or embracing chances to spend time with grandchildren is good for both the younger generation and the elderly.
Zubatsky agrees that mindset is key: “Be open to the possibilities of what this next chapter of your life can be. It’s one of the few times in life that you get to craft your own personal journey."
Saint Louis University Healthy Aging Clinic, 314-977-9759, slu.edu/medicine/family-medicine/ family-therapy/faculty-clinics/ memory-clinic.php
St. Louis Behavioral Medicine Institute, 314-289-9411, slbmi.com
See it to Believe it
ELLIEREDDERSINTERIORS’ NEWBALLWINSTUDIOOFFERS SHOWROOMSPA CEANDVR W ALKTHROUGHS.
A FATHER-SON BIKE TRIP FROM ST. LOUIS TO CHICAGO IS NOW THE SUBJECT OF THE PBS DOCUMENTARY “BIKE VESSEL.”
Eric Seals was just a kid when his father got sick. “My dad was in the hospital, and everybody was freaking out,” he recalls. At only 8 years old and the youngest of three siblings, Eric didn’t know exactly what was happening, but he did know that “my dad came home, and he didn’t go to work anymore. He was a lot slower, and he had a whole lot of pills he had to take.”
What Eric remembers is the aftermath of Donnie Seals’ first of three open-heart surgeries about 30 years ago. Having eaten his standard lunch of liverwurst and cheese on rye – his order was so predictable the office cafeteria staff prepped it as soon as they saw him coming, part of his “horrific” diet – Donnie began a presentation at work. “I just felt funny, and I couldn’t continue,” he says. “I was only in my early 40s, but I knew I had to go to the emergency room, and the next day I had my first surgery.”
Donnie knew he had to make big changes for the sake of his heart health. He gave up red meat and cut back on cheese. “But now I realize I was really relying on medication to keep me going,” he says of the years following his surgeries. “Looking back, I was just surviving. I wouldn’t call that living.”
weekend cycling partner in his son.
As they approached the fifth anniversary of Donnie’s bike purchase, Eric proposed they celebrate with something big – like a 350-mile ride from St. Louis to Chicago. Donnie agreed and took on the task of planning the trip while Eric prepared to film the adventure. “It took me a while to embrace the idea, and even while we were training, there were times when I didn’t think it was a good idea,” Donnie says. Yet he planned the journey that would take four days, and the pair set off in September 2021 when Donnie was about to turn 70.
From a filmmaker’s perspective, Eric saw the trip as a chance to tell Donnie’s story, raising awareness about Black health and cardiovascular fitness along the way. The result is “Bike Vessel,” an Independent Lens documentary that debuted on PBS on Feb. 24. The title, Eric notes, hints at the idea that everyone must find a vessel to carry them to their goals.
As Donnie survived, Eric grew up. He moved from the family home in the Chicago suburbs to the city where he began a career as a director and cinematographer, now teaching production at DePaul University and heading Digifé, a company focusing on documentaries and social impact stories. It was a “home movie” Eric made that further changed the trajectory of Donnie’s life and health.
“I really started making a drastic change after I saw a movie Eric took of me playing tennis with my daughter-in-law,” Donnie says. “I saw how out of shape I was, and I thought, ‘I can’t continue going down this road.’” The next day, Donnie bought a bike. He started by riding around the block. Slowly, he increased his distance, improving his fitness as he rode. Eric noticed. “I wasn’t doing anything for my health, and I knew if I didn’t make a change, I’d go down the same path [as my dad].” Before long, Donnie had a
Donnie wants viewers to know that “you can turn your life around and find a health care professional who works with you and is part of your team – someone you can have a conversation with and who doesn’t just dictate that you have to take a medication without understanding the side effects and alternatives. I was very fortunate to find that,” he says. He adds that everyone should also have a vessel that carries them to better health, regardless of what type of activity it might be.
“After people watch 'Bike Vessel,' I want them to talk to their loved ones. Ask how they’re feeling and what they’re going through,” Eric adds. “I think that made us come closer as a unit, and it’s important for all of us to talk about what we’re experiencing when a loved one goes through some type of health challenge.”
"Bike Vessel" is available now to stream on the PBS flagship YouTube channel and app. Meanwhile, if you visit the Chicago suburb of Wheaton, look out for a fit senior on his daily 30-mile bike ride.
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