Loveland & South, CO March 2025 by City Lifestyle

The Home & Design Issue

“The Best Journey Takes You Home.”

As the first hints of spring start to paint the world around us, there’s a certain magic in the air that reminds us of the power of home. Home isn’t just the walls we live within—it’s the place where our stories are written, where memories are made, and where we find comfort in the everyday moments. It’s where we share laughter, take deep breaths, and connect with the ones we love.

This March, as we embrace the season of renewal, we invite you to reflect on the heart of your own home— and the place we all call our hometown. Loveland and the surrounding areas are special, not just because of the beautiful scenery but because of the people, the history, and the shared sense of community that make this place feel like a part of us. Whether it's the incredible art that decorates our cities or the festivals and traditions that celebrate our history, our hometown has a way of weaving its spirit into the fabric of our homes.

As I have gotten a chance to dig in and become a part of our communities over this last year, I have been able to reflect and gain perspective surrounding this wonderful place we get to call home. No matter where life takes us, home is where our roots are planted and where we build our wings to fly. What an honor it is to share the history, the stories, and the authentic heart that is at the center of our hometown.

As we step into this new season together, I hope you take a moment to appreciate the comfort of your own home and the special ties to the community that make Loveland such an incredible place to live. Home is where our hearts are, and no matter where life takes us, it’s the memories of our homes and hometowns that stay with us forever.

Here’s to the homes we cherish, the town we love, and the season of new beginnings.

March 2025

PUBLISHER

Desiree Gustafson | desiree.gustafson@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Shen Wu Tan | shenwu.tan@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Adriana Karagozian, Shen Wu Tan, Cris Alsum

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

E.T.C Photography, Monica Jean Photography

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

COO Matthew Perry

CRO Jamie Pentz

CTO Ajay Krishnan

VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson

VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders

AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe

LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas Learn

You'reInvited

Poudre Valley REA Annual Meeting

Doors open at 7:30am Embassy Suites, Loveland n

Saturday, April 5, 2025

› Business meeting starts at 9am

› Breakfast will be provided

› Entertainment, gifts, & prizes available

› Come early for safety demonstrations & bucket truck rides

An official invitation will be sent to all members. Per our board election cycle, members will receive a voting ballot in the mail. Or cast your vote in person on the day of the Annual Meeting.

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1-3: The Larimer County Sheriff's Office emergency services team cut ice at Horsetooth Reservoir. 4: Magazine Publisher Desiree Gustafson pictured with community members at the Regional Business After Hours event. 5: Community members attended the Regional Business After Hours event at the Blue FCU Arena. 6-7: Poudre Valley REA employees showcased electrical safety practices to attendees at the Colorado Farm Show.

POUDRE VALLEY REA

DON REILLY WITH DJRIMAGING PHOTOGRAPHY

G.MOGEL/LCSO

8: Men's networking group, The Hustle Hour, hosted its first event of 2025 at 477 Distilling. 9: Rose Marie, Isabella (winner of a poetry contest), and Johanna at the Loveland Public Library 10: FUEL, Loveland’s young professionals group, had its first gathering of the 2025 year. 11-12: The Loveland Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony for Simply Alsum Organizing. 13: Fox 31 news covered the kick off of Loveland Valentine’s program. 14: The Good Samaritan Society at Loveland Valentine's program

DON REILLY WITH DJRIMAGING PHOTOGRAPHY

CALVIN BOYLES

DIXIE DALY

business monthly

A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES

Pulse Fiber Internet Commended for Best Gaming Quality

Pulse Fiber Internet has been recognized as the best gaming quality internet by PCMag for a 2nd year in a row! The fiber internet company secured a perfect 20 out of 20 score by the PCMag, which publishes a yearly “Best Gaming ISPs (Internet Service Providers)” report. The perfect score places Pulse at the top nationally for network performance, according to the publication’s ranking system. Kudos to Pulse Fiber Internet for a job well done!

Scan to read more

477 Distilling Accomplishes Some Firsts

A special shout out to 477 Distilling for its first limited release of the year: Earl Grey Barrel! Catering to tea and whiskey lovers, the liquor can stand on its own or serve as a flawless addition for your delicious cocktails! The distillery also hosted its first “Friends” trivia event, based on the popular sitcom, at its new Loveland location. It’s a free event for patrons to participate in and compete for amazing bottle prizes!

Scan to read more

Local Brewing Companies Launch 1st Collaboration Beer

Grimm Brothers Brewing and Empourium Brewing are happy to announce the release of their first collaboration beer together, Godfather Death! This beer is a Dark Czech Lager, full-flavored with notes of chocolate, toasted bread, and dried dark fruit. The beer will be available on draft and in 16oz. 4-pack cans.

Photography by Grimm Brothers Brewing

Photography by 477 Distilling

Photography by Pulse Fiber Internet

The Skin Lounge’s Newest Massage Therapist, Morningstar Mills Peake

A Colorado native brings 30 years of formal training and experience in health, wellness, and bodywork back to her roots after 24 years in Maui. Deeply committed to helping clients, Morningstar specializes in myofascial release, neuromuscular therapy, sports massage, orthopedic massage, prenatal care, and more. Her approach extends beyond the treatment table, including personalized exercises and stretches. Morningstar’s passion lies in sharing her extensive knowledge of body awareness to empower clients and facilitate lasting results. Scan

Photography by The Skin Lounge

CREATING a cozy hive

How Bumble Bee Blinds Transforms Houses into Homes

ARTICLE BY ADRIANA KARAGOZIAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MONICA JEAN PHOTOGRAPHY

A home is more than just four walls and a roof. It’s a sanctuary—a place where we find comfort, security, and a reflection of our personal style. For Kari and Nick Schaneman, owners of Bumble Bee Blinds in Loveland, the journey to helping homeowners craft these intimate spaces started with an unexpected turn in life. In May of 2023, Nick was laid off from his long-time career in energy, a shift that propelled him toward the dream of owning his own business. With Kari stepping in to manage day-to-day operations, the couple took a leap of faith, launching Bumble Bee Blinds with a commitment to quality, integrity, and community.

MORE THAN JUST WINDOW COVERINGS

At first glance, window coverings might seem like a simple aesthetic choice, but they play a much bigger role in shaping the atmosphere of a home. Bumble Bee Blinds creates spaces that feel safe, warm, and uniquely personal. With an interior designer on staff, they help homeowners select treatments that blend function and style, ensuring each space reflects the homeowner’s vision. Their selection includes energy-efficient shades for budget-conscious customers, artisan fabrics to elevate ambiance, and eco-friendly materials that make a statement while supporting sustainability.

“When we started the business, one of the first tasks was developing our core values,” Kari says. “Do what you say, do the right thing, choose your mood (and make it a good one), and always work to positively impact the community and those around you.” Initially, Kari wasn’t sure how selling blinds could positively impact the community. But looking back at their first year, she realized just how much they had contributed. “I realize we really have made a difference,” she reflects. From training future designers through CSU’s Interior Design Program to supporting other businesses through referrals, their impact reaches far beyond window treatments.

JUGGLING BUSINESS AND FAMILY LIFE

Running a business while raising three young children has its challenges. “Some days I want to quit. Starting a business is hard, especially with limited experience. My husband is an eternal optimist. He helps to drive us forward and see all the good things we have done,” Kari vulnerably shares. Their kids love coming to the warehouse, seeing firsthand the success their parents are building, and being a part of something that is truly family focused. Regardless of the challenges, Bumble Bee Blinds continues to thrive. In their first year alone, they covered nearly 1,000 windows and were honored as Best of NOCO 2024. Their dedication to quality ensures that every customer receives top-notch window treatments that last. As Kari puts it, “We stand behind our work and our products to make sure you have an experience that is as sweet as honey. We also love bee puns,” which is apparent from the moment you speak with Kari or step into the Bumble Bee Blinds office and warehouse.

A BUSINESS ROOTED IN COMMUNITY

Bumble Bee Blinds isn’t just about beautifying homes—it’s about giving back. They actively participate in the Loveland Chamber of Commerce and Future United Emerging Leaders (FUEL), strengthening their connection to the community. They have donated time and resources to charitable initiatives, including a golf tournament benefiting Grace Upon Grace Project,

“We truly care about our customers. If a customer is going to have a problem, we want them to have that problem with us because we will make it right.”

which provides diapers and menstrual supplies across northern Colorado. Their involvement with Habitat for Humanity is another testament to their commitment, as they participated in a Women’s Build Day and will be providing window treatments for the new homeowner when she moves in early this year.

Beyond their charitable efforts, Kari and Nick believe in fostering a supportive business community. They work closely with other small business owners in Loveland, building relationships that go beyond transactions. Their referrals help fellow businesses thrive, and they take pride in knowing that their work contributes to the overall success of the local economy.

TURNING A HOUSE INTO A HOME

As part of Loveland’s Sweetheart City, Bumble Bee Blinds aligns with the town’s unique blend of nature, art, and community spirit. Window treatments aren’t just functional; they set the mood of a home. Soft draperies create a cozy, romantic ambiance, natural materials make a bold statement while being eco-friendly, and shutters offer timeless elegance that can increase a home’s value. Whether a homeowner is looking for energy-efficient solutions or custom designs, Bumble Bee Blinds offers options that enhance comfort, privacy, and style.

Kari jokes that she now notices window treatments everywhere—at friends’ houses, restaurants, even in movies and TV shows. Once you’re fully immersed in the world of blinds, there’s no going back. And while she and Nick love bringing style and function to homes, they also find humor in the little things, keeping their journey lighthearted amid the hard work.

A FAMILY-FOCUSED FUTURE

Despite belonging to a national franchise under HorsePower Brands, Kari and Nick have made Bumble Bee Blinds their own. With three other franchise locations in Colorado, they have built strong relationships with fellow owners, exchanging support and ideas daily. Yet, at its core, their business remains deeply personal. Their team is an extension of their family. Their designer, Ashley, has three boys of her own, and their sales manager, Jessica, just welcomed her first baby boy in November. Family life and business life blend seamlessly, reinforcing their belief that success should never come at the cost of personal connection.

THE BUMBLE BEE PROMISE

At the end of the day, their mission is simple: to make the process of transforming a space as easy—and sweet—as honey. From the initial consultation to installation, they bring professionalism, passion, and, of course, plenty of bee puns. Every product is backed by limited lifetime warranties, ensuring that homeowners not only receive top-notch window treatments but also peace of mind. Bumble Bee Blinds isn’t just selling blinds; they’re creating spaces that feel like home. And thanks to their unwavering dedication, their customers can rest easy knowing they’re in good hands.

ARTICLE BY ADRIANA KARAGOZIAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY E.T.C PHOTOGRAPHY

LUXURY, WELLNESS, AND THE COMFORTS OF HOME

Mountain Mist Spas Offers a Bit of Self-Care in Your Home

Imagine stepping into your backyard, the evening air crisp and fresh, stars glistening above as the warmth of a bubbling spa envelops you. The stresses of the day melt away, tension releases from weary muscles, and a sense of calm washes over you. This is more than just relaxation; it’s a lifestyle—one that Mountain Mist Spas of Fort Collins has been perfecting for over four decades.

For 41 years, Mountain Mist Spas has been a cornerstone of northern Colorado’s home wellness experience. Family owned since its inception in 1983, the company has built its reputation on quality craftsmanship, exceptional service, and a deep-rooted commitment to the community. “Our big thing is just being family owned since 1983 and in this community,” says Austin Ellis, a sales manager of the company. “We've been here a long time.”

A home is more than just a place to live—it’s a sanctuary, a retreat from the hustle of daily life. Mountain Mist Spas enhances that sanctuary with their selection of high-quality hot

CONTINUED >

tubs, swim spas, and saunas. Designed with both relaxation and health in mind, these products transform any space into a private oasis.

Unlike many competitors, Mountain Mist Spas takes pride in its comprehensive service department. “Not a lot of spa companies have a service department,” Austin explains. “We have two full-time service techs. We do all of our own service work. We stock all our own parts. A lot of that is third-party sourced [with other companies]. The way our tubs are built is a little bit different—ours use a removable insulation, compared to a spray foam wall to wall. So, they're a lot easier to work on.

They all have basically the largest warranties that are available in hot tubs and swim spas for that matter.”

This attention to quality and convenience ensures that customers can enjoy their spa experience without the worry of complicated maintenance or unreliable third-party service. It’s this dedication that has earned Mountain Mist Spas a loyal customer base, many of whom return to purchase new spas for the next generation of their families.

Beyond the undeniable luxury of a hot tub or sauna lies a deeper benefit: wellness. In an era where self-care and holistic health are paramount, Mountain Mist Spas provides a way for

homeowners to nurture their physical and mental well-being from the comfort of their own space.

“The main benefactor is the health benefits alone,” Austin notes. “[For] a lot of people, when they come to look at spas, the idea is they need physical therapy.” Whether it’s soothing joint pain, improving circulation, aiding muscle recovery, or simply promoting relaxation, the advantages of hydrotherapy and heat therapy are undeniable. A spa at home means access to these benefits without the need for a trip to the gym or a wellness center.

“The main benefactor is the health benefits alone. [For] a lot of people, when they come to look at spas, the idea is they need physical therapy.” CONTINUED

A well-placed spa or sauna doesn’t just offer personal comfort, it can also increase the value of a home. “Resale value alone is going to go up if there's a sauna, or especially a built-in sauna, or a hot tub out there,” says Austin. While some potential buyers may hesitate at the responsibility, Mountain Mist Spas offers solutions, including professional relocation services to help transport spas to new homes.

For many, the investment in a high-quality hot tub or sauna isn’t just about boosting property value. It’s about creating a space where family and friends can connect. It doesn’t matter if it’s a weekend soak under the stars, a post-workout therapy session, or a winter escape from the chill, these additions elevate the everyday into something truly extraordinary.

As with any high-end home addition, maintenance is a consideration. “I would say the biggest challenge is at the end of the day. Hot tubs, saunas, swim spas— whatever it is—at the end of the day, they are machines, so something's going to go wrong at some point,” Austin acknowledges. But this is where Mountain Mist Spas stands apart. Their in-house service team is dedicated to prompt, efficient repairs, ensuring that customers can get back to enjoying their spas without long delays or unreliable outsourcing.

For those who prefer a hands-off approach, Mountain Mist Spas also offers maintenance plans. These plans provide routine servicing, balancing water chemistry, and keeping the spa in peak condition so homeowners can simply relax and enjoy.

Mountain Mist Spas isn’t just about selling luxury—it’s about being a part of the northern Colorado community. From participating in home shows and networking with local businesses to hosting Toys for Tots drives during the holiday season, the company actively engages with the people it serves. Their presence at community events is more than just promotional. It demonstrates their commitment to the region.

In a world where the line between home and sanctuary has never been more important, Mountain Mist Spas offers a way to enhance both. More than a purchase, a spa or sauna from Mountain Mist Spas is an investment in well-being, relaxation, and home luxury. With a legacy built on quality, service, and deep community ties, this family-owned company continues to bring comfort, health, and a touch of indulgence to homes across northern Colorado.

So, as the seasons change and the demands of life persist, perhaps it’s time to consider how your home can become the retreat you deserve. Whether it’s a warm soak beneath a winter sky or a rejuvenating session in a sauna, Mountain Mist Spas is ready to transform your home into a haven of relaxation and wellness.

ARTICLE BY CRIS ALSUM, SIMPLY ALSUM ORGANIZING

5 Tips for Decluttering Your Home

A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE FOR LIGHTENING THE LOAD

Prioritize your list, starting with the most frustrating area. It is ok if you need to break down your rooms/areas. For example, you could have a main bedroom, closet, or bathroom, etc.

Set a timer and get started. Start with 15 minutes. When the timer goes off, decide if you have energy to do more, or if you are done for now.

Collect 3 containers: 1 trash bag; 1 “donatable" donate box or bag -- something you can fill and drop off directly to your charity of choice; and 1 box or basket of “relocate” items (things you want to keep but don’t belong in the area you are decluttering).

Identify the areas you need to declutter. If it is the whole house, go ahead and write down every room/space.

Put away your 3 containers until the next session. If your trash bag is full, toss it. If your donate box or bag is full, place it in your car so it is ready to be dropped off. Relocate items to their proper homes.

Cris Alsum, founder of Simply Alsum Organizing

AIR-PURIFYING HOUSEPLANTS

ARTICLE BY SHEN WU TAN

THE BEST PLANTS TO CLEAN THE AIR IN YOUR HOME

Let’s face it: with the frigid temperatures of the winter months, many of us hole ourselves up inside our warm, cozy homes. With more time spent hibernating inside, improving indoor air quality is a must. Houseplants offer a natural fix by purifying the air and brightening up our living spaces. Here is a roundup of some of the best air-purifying plants out there.

DRACAENA

SNAKE PLANT

This low-maintenance houseplant is highly effective at eliminating toxins commonly found in household products, such as nitrogen oxides and formaldehyde, from the air. At night, this plant converts carbon dioxide into oxygen. The plant should be placed somewhere with indirect sunlight. It needs time for its soil to dry between waterings and requires sporadic pruning of dead leaves.

Recognized for enhancing air quality, this plant can remove several toxins from the air, including benzene and trichloroethylene. Dracaena also absorbs xylene, a chemical released from cigarettes and paints. Its uniquely-patterned, elongated leaves make it a perfect decorative houseplant. The plant thrives in places with indirect sunlight and needs to be watered regularly. Allow at least half of the soil to dry before watering again.

02 03

RUBBER PLANT

PEACE LILY

The peace lily, characterized by white spathes and dark green leaves, successfully draws out benzene, formaldehyde, alcohols, acetone, and trichloroethylene, improving respiratory health. It releases oxygen throughout the day and soaks up some of the excess moisture from the air, which can help prevent mildew. Peace lilies prefer indirect sunlight and should be lightly watered. The plant’s leaves should be occasionally wiped down with a damp cloth to keep them fresh.

With the help of its large leaves, the rubber plant absorbs airborne toxins, transforms them into clean oxygen, and removes formaldehyde, a common indoor pollutant, from the air. The plant can grow to an impressive height, making quite a statement in any room with touches of greenery. To care for the plant, keep it in a space with bright, indirect light and the soil moist.

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

VARIOUS DATES BETWEEN MARCH 1ST - 30TH

Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Oklahoma!

Candlelight, 4747 Marketplace Dr., Johnstown, CO 80534 | 12:00 PM

Come check out Rodgers and Hammerstein’s musical play centered around the love triangle story of a cowboy, a farm hand, and a farm girl set in western territory in the early 1900s! The play also focuses on a second love story between a different cowboy and his flirtatious fiancé. Event times vary, depending on the date. See online for details.

MARCH 7TH

Glow Swim Party

Chilson Recreation/Senior Center, 700 E. Fourth St., Loveland, CO 80537 | 7:00 PM

Join the luminescent pool party at Chilson! Come enjoy an event where the lights are dimmed, and you can get your glow on with glow volleyball, a DJ dance party, and more! All ages are welcomed.

MARCH 9TH

Harlem Globetrotters 2025 World Tour

Blue Federal Credit Union Arena, 5290 Arena Cir., Loveland, CO 80538 | 3:00 PM

Experience the renowned Harlem Globetrotters on their global tour as they showcase their unique skills on the basketball court! Watch the stars spin, dribble, slam, and dunk as they play against their opponents, the Washington Generals! The event will be chock full of amazing trick shots and hoots of laughter!

MARCH 9TH

Colorado Bridal Show

Embassy Suites Loveland - Hotel, Spa & Conference Center, 4705 Clydesdale Pkwy., Loveland, CO 80538 | 11:00 AM

Looking to get hitched soon? Start planning your destination wedding or honeymoon at the Colorado Bridal Show! Or just stop by for kicks! Event attendees can check out various vendors at the Embassy Suites, including fine jewelry, formalwear rents and sales, videography, make-up, and more! Attendees also have a chance to win prizes and giveaways from vendors!

MARCH 12TH

Cards and Pool

Johnstown Senior Center, 101 Charlotte St., Johnstown, CO 80534 | 12:30 PM

Try your hand at some card games or a pool match at the Johnstown Senior Center! It doesn’t matter if you’re a pro or a beginner! All skill levels are welcomed!

MARCH 14TH

Masters of Hawaiian Music

Rialto Theater, 228 E. 4th St., Loveland, CO 80537 | 7:30 PM

Immerse yourself in Hawaiian music and culture with a show featuring these storyteller-musicians: George Kahumoku, Jr., Sonny Lim, and Herb Ohta, Jr. These musicians are experts at slack key guitar, lap steel guitar, and ukulele styles, which characterize popular Hawaiian music. Come check out some of Maui’s most talented musicians!

MARCH 15TH

Motown Spring Fling

Rialto Theater, 228 E. 4th St., Loveland, CO 80537 | 7:00 PM

The annual Motown Spring Fling is back for its 5th year at the Rialto Theater! Jam out as vocalists sing and dance to classic Motown and Memphis soul songs by famous artists, including Otis Redding, the Supremes, the Temptations, and more, offering their own modern spin of this sweet music!

MARCH 22ND

U-Create Open Studio

Wildfire Community Arts Center, 425 Massachusetts Ave., Berthoud, CO 80513 | 10:00 AM

It’s creativity time! Pop into the Wildfire Community Arts Center to enjoy some arts and crafts! Feel free to bring materials to work on your own project in the space, or draw inspiration from an instructor about a suggested art activity!

MARCH 27TH

Thirsty Thursday at Black Sheep Coffee & Crepes

Black Sheep Coffee & Crepes, 19 S. Parish Ave., Johnstown, CO 80534 | 4:00 PM

Head on over to Black Sheep to celebrate Thirsty Thursday! The event happens every Thursday and now includes happy hour Mason Jar Margarita specials along with a tasty selection of seltzers, ciders, and brews!

MARCH 27TH - MAY 3RD

Vibrant Voices: Art that Speaks Volumes

Loveland Museum, 503 N. Lincoln Ave., Loveland, CO 80537 | 4:30 PM

Listen and tune into the imagination of local student artists from the Thompson School District as their world interpretation through art comes to life! The artwork of students in grades kindergarten through 12th grade will be displayed, ranging from photography, collage, drawing, sculpture, and more! The opening reception takes place on March 27 at 4:30 p.m.

MARCH 28TH - 30TH

Disney on Ice – Into the Magic

Blue Federal Credit Union Arena, 5290 Arena Cir., Loveland, CO 80538 | 7:00 PM

Escape reality and enter the world of Disney for a bit! Enjoy a live on-the-ice show at the Blue Arena featuring some of your favorite Disney characters from Frozen, Coco, Moana, Tangled, and more! Event times vary, depending on the date. See online for details.

MARCH 30TH

"Mushrooms, Flowers & Gnomes" Fused Glass with Gail Frick

Lincoln Gallery, 429 N. Lincoln Ave., Loveland, CO 80537 | 1:00 PM

Explore the art of kiln-formed glass and create your own unique garden decorations at the Lincoln Gallery! Students will have an opportunity to learn hands-on about cutting and fusing glass in this 3-hour workshop!