This is the one sale you simply cannot miss. For two days only, prices on everything in the showroom will be drastically reduced. From pendants, earrings, bracelets and diamond engagement rings by world-famous designers, to the most iconic Swiss timepieces, everything is included.
Here are just a few of the exclusive designers you’ll find at the James Free Anniversary Event: SAVE THE DATE!
February 28th - March 1st
9555 Main St. Montgomery OH 45242 513-793-0133 | www.jamesfree.com
FURRER JACOT
JOHN HARDY
MIKIMOTO
MARCO BICEGO
SLOANE STREET
SIMON G
PRECISION SET
CHRISTOPHER DESIGNS
FREDRICK GOLDMAN
FREDERIQUE CONSTANT
JF COLLECTIONS
GUCCI
TO 70% SAVINGS February 28th - March 1st
Listed items subject to store location and availability. *JAEGER-LECOULTRE, IWC, OMEGA, DAVID YURMAN, CUSTOM AND PREVIOUS PURCHASES AND PURCHASES ON ACCOUNT EXCLUDED. LIMITED SUPPLY AND SUBJECT TO PRIOR SALE. ALL SALES ARE FINAL.
Home Sweet Home
“HOME.” There’s so much contained in that little, four-letter word. Home is our safe haven, a cocoon away from the whims of the world; our base, but also our launchpad. It’s where we start and end each day. And while the aesthetic of each is as unique as the owners, the meaning and value it holds for all of us is undeniable.
Author Wendy Wunder said, “The magic thing about home is that it feels good to leave, and it feels even better to come back.” As we think about home, we want to highlight what makes it special to our readers. That, of course, includes the style, architecture and design, but most importantly–the people.
I’ve always had a nomadic soul, starting in high school when I spent a few summers serving in the remote interior of Alaska. Following a couple more seasons working and canoeing in the Northwoods of Minnesota, I meandered down to the mountains of Virginia for university and finally moved abroad for what was supposed to be one year, but quickly became 15 years of travel and exploration. Regardless of where I wandered, I noticed one thing; home is not so much a place, as a feeling.
Every month, we hear from readers who keep this magazine for longer than just the month labeled on the cover. They say they hold onto it for months as coffee table art or an accessory in their home. We feel proud to create a resource that is valued in our community and strive every month to deliver the value you expect. Thanks for letting us be a part of your home.
We feel like the lucky ones as we get to learn about the businesses and individuals that comprise this city and hope the small lens into their lives and work helps bring people in the community together. As you flip through the pages of this issue, we hope you’ll feel encouraged and connected to the people in your hometown.
For those of us who’ve wandered, perhaps we can garner some wisdom from the yellow brick road: "If I ever go looking for my heart's desire again, I won't look any further than my own backyard. Because if it isn't there, I never really lost it to begin with.” -Dorothy, The Wizard of Oz
DEBORAH MEKENESE, PUBLISHER
March 2025
PUBLISHER
Deborah Mekenese
Deborah.Mekenese@CityLifestyle.com
EDITOR
Tera Michelson | Tera.Michelson@CityLifestyle.com
PUBLICATION MANAGER
Michelle Numann
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Amy Devine/Auer Design Hause, Lisa Fletcher, Bill Furbee
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
RF Graphics, Corrie Schaffeld/Business Courier, Ross Van Pelt/RVP Photography
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford
LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
The power of
3 Ways to Ease Personal Financial Stress: Where Confidence Meets Control
Many Americans feel overwhelmed by their finances, with 65% citing it as their top stressor. Joe Patterson, CFP® of Foster & Motley, shares three ways to feel in control of your finances.
1. Start with an inventory: Capture income sources, fixed and variable expenses, assets, and liabilities. Tools like Excel or apps like YNAB or EveryDollar can streamline tracking.
2. Prioritize goals: Distinguish needs (e.g., housing, healthcare) from wants (e.g., vacations, remodeling), and make a plan to work towards both.
3. Mitigate risk: Insurance and diversified investments help protect against uncertainties.
Stay on track by revisiting these areas annually. Taking these small steps consistently can lead to significant improvements and peace of mind.
business monthly
Save the Date for 2025 Kindervelt FiftyFest—April 5
Join Kindervelt 50 for dinner, drinks and dancing at FiftyFest, its annual spring fundraiser for Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center. Grab your dirndl and lederhosen and get ready to polka for this year’s theme—Biergarten. Hosted at Little Miami Brewing Company (208 Mill Street, Milford), 6-11 p.m. Proceeds make a difference in the lives of children through the work of the Advanced Leukemia Therapies and Research Center at CCHMC. Tickets are on sale now! e. GiveSmart.com/events/GuX/
Indian Hill High School Celebrates Student-Athletes with Signing Ceremony
Five Braves who have set world records and made national headlines signed with colleges to continue both their academic and athletic careers, as announced by Indian Hill Athletic Director Brian Phelps. Congratulations and best wishes to Indian Hill High School student-athletes: Vitaly Cristo, Wrestling, Washington & Lee University; Robert Hayes, Football, Youngstown State University; Penn Picton, Football, Colgate University; Connor Wilkes, Soccer, Johns Hopkins University; and Jason Zhao, Swimming, Stanford University. IndianHillSchools.org
14th Annual Conquer the Hill 5K is Coming—April 26
Come run, walk or push a stroller to help build the Indian Hill Braves Helping Braves Fund at the 2025 Conquer the Hill 5K. The family-friendly event will be held on Saturday, April 26, starting at 8:30 a.m., with the Kid Fun Run to follow at 9:30 a.m. After the run, enjoy the PTO Spring Fling, fun for the whole community from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Registration is now open for both events. RunSignUp.com/Race/OH/Cincinnati/ ConquertheHill5kRaceand Walk, IndianHillPTO.membershiptoolkit.com
Photography by Lippert Photography
Photography by Indian Hill Schools
Photography by Adam McCuiston
ARTICLE BY AMY DEVINE/AUER DESIGN HAUSE
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROSS VAN PELT/RVP PHOTOGRAPHY
DESIGNING DETAILS
Thoughtfully Curated Spaces That Evoke Joy
Luxury design extends well beyond the right furniture and color palette; it comes down to the details that tie it all together. At Auer Design Hause, the finishing touches are emphasized just as much as the larger picture-planning phase. For example, a dining room tablescape can elevate the shared design experience, adding a layer of elegance and sophistication. Well curated details can have a great impact on the end result. Opting in for fine china, crystal or hand-blown glassware, quality flatware and textured linens can upgrade the space further. Another key component is lighting. A mixture of overhead, accent and ambient lighting used independently or in conjunction with each other, can change the mood of a room. Taper candles are a great way to create a welcoming atmosphere, where chandeliers can be made to light the space in a dramatic way.
CONTINUED >
Key details can be observed in the more permanent elements of a room, such as drapery and upholstery. The selection of premium upholstery materials and elegantly weighted drapery fabrics contributes significantly to an overall sense of luxury. The addition of texture comes from layered artwork displayed against a grasscloth wallcovering. Every detail should reflect the personalities of those who inhabit the space, adding a distinct touch that enriches the overall design aesthetic. By emphasizing these finishing elements, you can elevate your dining room into a luxurious environment that is both visually captivating and
warm. This meticulous attention to detail will create unforgettable dining experiences for you and your guests.
Another critical factor influencing the atmosphere of a room is scale. While a space may showcase exquisite textures, patterns and materials, improper scaling can lead to a cluttered appearance, causing important details to be overlooked. Ultimately, the cornerstone of effective design is functionality; if a room does not serve its intended purpose, the aesthetic appeal becomes irrelevant. Choosing pieces that serve a purpose, are in the correct scale and play into the palette will result in a room that reflects the intended atmosphere and function.
AUER DESIGN HAUSE: CREATING LUXURY DESIGN FOR HOME & OFFICE
Amy Devine, Owner of Auer Design Hause, reflects on her thirty-year career with wonder, noting the ever-expanding array of resources, materials and applications available. Her ongoing evolution within the design field enhances the breadth of her knowledge and ability to create unique profiles tailored to every client in both residential and commercial spaces. Together with her daughter, Jordan, Amy shares a passion for design and is grateful for the opportunity to bring joy to others. The mother-daughter design duo is fulfilled when they witness their clients’ love for the spaces they create, from installation day through many years to come.
Daycare | Boarding | Grooming | Training | Curated Market
January
20/25% Off
Ring in the New Year with Savings - Boarding with us over New Year’s Eve? Enjoy 20% off a bath or 25% off a full groom on your next Salon & Spa visit in January!
May
Complimentary
May Makeover - Brighten your pups smile with a complimentary teeth brushing when you book any full grooming service!
September $5
Tailgate Tails - Kick off the season with a $5 nail trim and a football or team themed bandana. Perfect for game day!
February
$10
Cupids Canine Spa - Pamper your pup with love! Add a heart-themed bandana, soothing paw massage, and a special Valentine card to their visit for just $10! (heart stencil optional)
June
$10
Summer Style - Add a splash of color to your pup’s summer look with nail painting for just $10. Let them strut their stylish paws!
October $20
Spooky Tails - Celebrate Halloween with festive nail painting or hair dye for $20 and receive a complimentary Halloween toy! Keep your pup looking spook-tacular!
March 15% Off
March Into Spring - Get your pup ready for the new season with a rejuvenating deshedding treatment. They will leave looking and feeling their absolute best!
July $15
Red, White, & Groom - Get your pup looking patriotic with a themed nail painting, a patriotic bandana, and an airbrushed stencil for only $15!
November
Complimentary
Treats Giving SpecialCelebrate the season of giving! Every dog that gets groomed in November will go home with a delicious treat!
April 15% Off
Spring Allergy Relief - Help your pup combat spring allergies with a detox bath at 15% off. Help keep them fresh and comfortable all season long!
August Complimentary
Back to School BeautyPrepare your pup for the new school year with a full groom and complimentary facial! They’ll be the talk of the dog park!
December
Complimentary
Santa Paws is Coming to Town - Get into the holiday spirit! Every service in December comes with a complimentary paw balm and a flyer about our free pictures with Santa event!
WASTE TO TREASURE
ARTICLE BY LISA FLETCHER
In a world where piles of scrap wood often end up in landfills, Nick Francis saw an opportunity to create something extraordinary. As Co-Founder and Executive Director of Scrap2Home, a Madeira-based nonprofit, Francis and his team, including his wife Amy and numerous volunteers, are turning discarded wood into hope, one piece of furniture at a time.
FROM PANDEMIC HOBBY TO PURPOSEFUL MISSION
The story of Scrap2Home began in the spring of 2020, amidst the quiet chaos of the COVID pandemic.
“It was very small-scale at first,” Francis shares. “Just something to do at home during lockdown.”
Then, the seeds of a bigger idea took root: create a nonprofit whose mission is simple–reduce the amount of wood sent to landfills and provide free furniture to families in need.
Francis, a longtime educator, wanted to tackle two problems: the overwhelming waste in society and the lack of furniture for families in need. Could scrap wood destined for landfills be transformed into something valuable? Fast forward to September 19, 2022—Scrap2Home officially launched with its first build in a woodshop with volunteers.
Nick Francis (far right) crafts furniture from scrap wood with a team of volunteers.
“We help people and organizations who don’t want to throw wood into a dumpster,” Francis explains. “There are lots of people interested in keeping material out of the landfill. We provide an avenue for using that ‘waste’ to help people in need.”
BUILDING FURNITURE AND FUTURES
Scrap2Home operates on a unique model. They collect scrap wood from construction sites, businesses and even homeowners, then turn these castoffs into sturdy, attractive furniture. Volunteers—many of them regulars—gather to build various items, mostly tables. Today, more than 500 volunteers have contributed over 5,000 hours.
“We’ve saved over 30,000 pounds of wood from landfills and built more than 1,000 items,” Francis beams. “We’ve never run out of scrap wood—in fact, we sometimes have to turn it down because of storage limitations.”
WAYS TO JOIN THE SCRAP2HOME MISSION
• Donate: Help fund their new woodshop campaign.
• Volunteer: Join the crew to build furniture.
• Book a Team-Building Workshop: Bring your team for a meaningful bonding experience.
• Buy Furniture: Watch for Scrap2Home at local farmers’ markets.
• Follow + Share: Spread the word on Facebook and LinkedIn.
• Attend Events: Look out for charity nights at local breweries.
Want to learn more or get involved? Visit Scrap2Home.org for details on volunteering, donating or scheduling a workshop.
How Scrap2Home Builds Hope, Furniture & Community
The furniture goes directly to families in need through a partnership with New Life Furniture Bank, whose woodshop they have been using. In return for using their shop, Scrap2Home gives everything they build there to the furniture bank and they pass it on to their clients.
“It has been an awesome partnership that has allowed us to get going and truly prove the concept of Scrap2Home. We are extremely grateful to New Life for all their support,” Francis explains. “The need is alarming, but seeing how the community has rallied around this idea is incredible.”
In addition to building furniture, Scrap2Home offers team-building workshops where businesses and groups build tables together, fostering skills in leadership, collaboration, communication and trust.
LOOKING AHEAD: A NEW CHAPTER IN 2025
Scrap2Home’s next big step is moving into a dedicated woodshop in 2025. This move will allow the nonprofit to expand its operations and independence. The transition will require community support, and Scrap2Home is gearing up for a fundraising campaign.
“This next step is necessary because we are growing, our needs have changed and we need the independence of a new space,” Francis explains. “The move is necessary if we want to be a sustainable organization.”
With the impact they have made so far, Francis and his team have proven that with a little creativity and a lot of heart, even scrap wood can be a foundation for change. Whether you’re donating, building or just spreading the word, there’s a place for you at Scrap2Home.
Creating bespoke homes at the intersection of tradition and modern technology.
Showroom open daily. Schedule an appointment with Jay, Evan or Tricia. Officine Gullo Exclusively at...
Sample of Recently Sold Properties in and around Indian Hill
BUILDING BETTER HOMES
WINDOWS OF OPPORTUNITY
ARTICLE BY BILL FURBEE
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CORRIE SCHAFFELD/BUSINESS
COURIER & PROVIDED
From Music Hall to suburban side streets, countless Greater Cincinnati buildings deliver charming curb appeal, thanks to attractive windowboxes and the flowers and decorative plants contained within. Many of those enhancements have been installed and maintained by the aptly named WOW Windowboxes company.
“We service about 1,500 to 2,000 clients each season,” reports Bret Schneider, owner of WOW Windowboxes. “Each client, no matter the size or scope, receives our unparalleled attention to detail and dedication to delivering a WOW-worthy experience.”
WOW Windowboxes has been designing and installing windowboxes for more than 15 years.
“Since 2009, we’ve been on a mission to brighten homes and businesses with our signature style and exceptional service,” Schneider says. “Even small touches can make a big impact.”
It all began in a garage. Schneider’s mother, Sue, dreamed of having attractive windowboxes for her own home but found the market lacking. After taking matters into her own hands, neighbors soon came calling and things grew from there.
“We started humbly in that garage with a rusty Dodge Durango, hauling supplies—a symbol of our resourcefulness and dedication to making things work with what we had,” Schneider shares. “That same spirit of creativity and determination continues to drive us.”
Today, WOW Windowboxes operates out of a warehouse and office space in Saint Bernard, with 30 talented team members and a fleet of 12 wrapped box trucks to serve Greater Cincinnati.
“Our focus has always been on improving our services and exceeding client expectations at every turn,” Schneider says. “Our full-service approach, including automatic irrigation systems and seasonal maintenance, eliminates hassle.”
Many of the company’s clients are some of the top realtors in the city. Others include members of the Cincinnati Bengals, HOMEARAMA participants and especially individual families looking to brighten up their block.
Opposite RIght Bottom: WOW Windowboxes Owner Bret Schneider. Photo by Corrie Schaffeld/Business Courier.
“EACH CLIENT, NO MATTER THE SIZE OR SCOPE, RECEIVES OUR UNPARALLELED ATTENTION TO DETAIL AND DEDICATION TO DELIVERING A WOW-WORTHY EXPERIENCE.”
“While we’re known for our stunning windowboxes, we also design and plant planters and other containers to suit any space,” Schneider explains. “Our services include design, installation and maintenance. We provide irrigation systems to simplify watering and custom planting designs to match our clients’ styles and preferences.”
Regardless of the season or setting, WOW Windowboxes ensures that every container is breathtaking.
“We’ve had so many amazing opportunities to showcase our work, all of which align perfectly with WOW’s mission to
create beauty and bring joy to the spaces we touch,” Schneider explains. “We’re thrilled to contribute to making spaces throughout Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky even more memorable and beautiful.”
The creative designers at WOW Windowboxes have a solution ready to impress, even in challenging settings.
“Sometimes it’s not about windowboxes—it might be planters around a pool, windowboxes on deck railings or planters for decks and rooftops,” he says.
While windowboxes add an attractive flair to any setting, some may believe them
to be high-maintenance or expensive. That’s just not the case. Consider budget-friendly and scalable solutions like single pots and two-foot windowboxes that can accommodate nearly any space.
“We’re extremely creative in helping clients bring color and fun into their outdoor spaces, proving that outdoor beauty can be both accessible and versatile,” says Schneider.
Add flower power to the outdoor spaces of your home or business this spring with WOW Windowboxes.
WOW Windowboxes | 513.402.2137 WOWWindowboxes.com
Inspiration for your best local life.
Exclusive giveaways. Hidden gem alert! Good news in your neighborhood. Local content by local creators. Inside scoop on all things local. Locally-inspired food & drink recipes.
We provide an all-natural approach to treating animals improving mobility, decreasing pain, along with preventive wellness care.
Common conditions we can help:
• Working animals who perform routine tasks and need to keep a competitive edge.
• Elderly animals who are struggling to complete everyday tasks.
• Animals who appear stiff and rigid when walking.
• Compensation from hip dysplasia.
• Limping or dragging of a limb.
office treatment for small animals On site barn calls for horses and riders
available for equine
(513)805-2040 | cincinnatianimalchiropractic.com 1125 Congress Ave. Cincinnati, Ohio. 45246
Dr. Jonathan and Dr. Leslie Zook Certified Animal Chiropractic Physicians.
events
MARCH 6TH -8TH
Cincinnati International Wine Festival
Freestore Food Bank, 3401 Rosenthal Way, Cincinnati | 7:00 PM
Raise a glass and funds for local arts, education and health and human services grants at the Cincinnati International Wine Festival. Enjoy a 5-course dinner, VIP tasting experience or charity auction and luncheon as a part of the weekend’s menu of events. Sponsorships are available. Proceeds benefit Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky nonprofit organizations. Wine Festival.com
MARCH 14TH
No Boundaries: A Group Exhibition
Art Enclave, 7500 Industrial Row Road, Mason | 6:00 PM
Join Art Enclave for the opening of their new exhibit “No Boundaries,” featuring the works of more than a dozen artists. Explore a diverse showcase of artistic expression ranging from stunning paintings and sculptures to captivating glass art. Don’t miss the chance to meet the artists and immerse yourself in their inspiring creations. The exhibit runs through May 3. ArtEnclave.com
MARCH 15TH
Exploring With Grace Race
Summit Park, 4335 Glendale Milford Road, Blue Ash | 10:00 AM
Lace up your running shoes for the Exploring With Grace Race, a 5K run/walk to celebrate the legacy of Grace Lewis. Proceeds support the Exploring With Grace Foundation, on a mission to promote the mental, physical and emotional wellbeing of children and veterans. An after-race celebration includes a concert, t-shirts, a silent auction and Cincinnati mascots. ExploringWithGraceRace.com
MARCH 15TH
Cincinnati Saint Patrick’s Parade
The Banks, Downtown Cincinnati | 12:00 PM
Don’t miss the 57th annual Saint Patrick’s Parade, complete with floats, pipers, step dancers and marching bands. The parade route begins at the corner of Paul Brown Stadium, at the intersection of Central Avenue and West Mehring Way, then continues along Smale Riverfront Park before circling north to Freedom Way and ending at Race Street. CincyStPatsParade.com
MARCH 16TH
Art on Vine
Rhinegeist Brewery, 1910 Elm Street, Cincinnati | 12:00 PM
Shop for locally sourced fine art and handmade goods at this monthly market featuring more than 80 artisans and makers from throughout Ohio. Art on Vine was created to provide a unique, fun, one-on-one art buying experience while celebrating and supporting artists’ financial independence. Proceeds benefit a different local nonprofit each month. ArtOnVineCincy.com
MARCH 27TH
Cincinnati Reds Opening Day Parade
Findlay Market, Downtown Cincinnati | 12:00 PM
A long-standing tradition, the 105th Opening Day parade kicks off the Cincinnati Reds baseball season in style. Dress in your favorite Reds gear to enjoy the procession of floats, bands and surprise guests as they proudly march through downtown Cincinnati. Find the full parade route and details about other Opening Day festivities throughout the city online. FindlayMarketParade.com
