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Home
Dear Reader,
When Chris and I graduated high school, we set out on different paths, leaving the familiar behind to explore the unknown. Chris ventured to France, immersing himself in the elegance of European culture and education, while I headed west to Los Angeles to chase my dream of a professional dance career. For both of us, “home” became a distant memory as we found ourselves in vibrant new worlds, surrounded by diverse communi ties and unfamiliar landscapes. What once felt uncharted transformed into spaces of belonging, shaping who we were and expanding our understanding of what “home” could mean.
Years later, like a scene from a movie, our journeys intersected again in New York City, where Chris was temporarily calling “home.” From there, we started a new chapter, moving together to Utah and then Chicago. Both were wonderful places to live, but neither felt like a place where we could grow deep roots. We were always looking for the next adventure.
When the dream of starting a family came into focus, we felt a pull to return to where our story began, to be near family and build a life surrounded by loved ones. After 14 years of exploring, Michigan called us back, and Rochester became the place where we would put down roots. Though it was new to us, it felt like the perfect setting for this next chapter of parenthood, a fresh canvas where we could see the world anew through the eyes of our children.
From the moment we arrived seven years ago, Rochester felt like a different kind of home. Our neighborhood is incredible; neighbors turned into friends, and friends became like family. We love being just a short bike ride from downtown, where our kids have their favorite spots, and every outing is filled with familiar, friendly faces. Rochester is brimming with kindness, support, and a true sense of community, the very qualities we cherished in all the places we had lived.
Rochester isn’t just where we live, it’s where we’ve found home. It’s where our family planted roots and built a life full of love, connection, and meaning. It’s where we’ve discovered what it truly means to be home.
With Gratitude,
SHAUNA OLIVERIO, ACCOUNT MANAGER
March 2025
PUBLISHER
Chris Oliverio | chris.oliverio@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Jessica Snow | jessica.snow@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Jennifer Lee | jennifer.lee@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Shauna Oliverio | shauna.oliverio@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Jennifer Lee, Shauna Oliverio, Chris Oliverio & Leigh Berkhoel
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Jessica Snow 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 Lillian Gibbs
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
Experience luxury and personalized treatments at our Rochester/Rochester Hills trusted Medical Spa for over 25 years
A sampling of our menu includes: wrinkle relaxers, skin fillers, non-surgical fat removal, muscle toning and skin rejuvenation treatments. Our team of medical professionals is passionate about making your aesthetic goals come to life!
SAMANTHA FOLLEBOUT
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Discover fun, creative ways to layer and design with Gina at Rochester Salvage and Supply 2: Fun, interactive, and educational kids’ cooking classes at Rata2ee, where little chefs shine! 3: Gear up this spring with Red Shed Cycles, your go-to for personalized, stylish biking essentials!
4: Make your celebration unique with Sweet Mitten Dreams’ handmade tents, Michigan-inspired designs, and fun themes! 5: South Street Skate Shop offers clothing for men, women, and kids, our local skate destination! 6: Discover Deb Silver at The Silver Shamrocks for exceptional catering and unforgettable culinary events! 7: Sit Means Sit offers the best dog training programs in Rochester, professional, effective, and life-changing!
Want to be seen in the magazine?
BARRE3 ROCHESTER HILLS
ARTICLE BY JENNIFER LEE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSICA SNOW
DISCOVER STRENGTH, BALANCE AND BELONGING AT BARRE3 - WHERE FITNESS FEELS LIKE HOME.
There’s something special that happens when two best friends take their love of movement and dedicate themselves to creating an inclusive space for people to move their bodies in an intentional way. That something special is known today as barre3, a fitness studio where the goal is to ensure that every person who moves and sweats there feels truly seen and celebrated, leaving with a sense of accomplishment, pride, and a deeper bond with themselves and those around them.
Lindsay Irrer and Janelle Herbert, co-owners of barre3 Metro Detroit ( formerly The Barre Code), have a friendship and business journey that’s nothing short of inspiring. Their story begins at age 13, when they first met as dancers competing against each other in a national competition. They quickly became fast friends, and years later, they reunited at Michigan State University, where they both joined the dance team and became roommates. Their bond grew even stronger, and in 2012, Lindsay made a bold New Year’s resolution to start her own business. Of course, she knew exactly who to call—Janelle, her best friend and soon-to-be business partner.
In 2013, the duo opened their first studio, The Barre Code, in Birmingham, Michigan. Their passion for fitness and entrepreneurship quickly led to the opening of three more locationsNorthville, Royal Oak and Rochester Hills. Over the past 12 years, Lindsay and Janelle have poured their hearts and souls into creating a welcoming space where everyone, no matter their fitness level, feels at home. “In our fast-paced world, we feel deeply honored when someone chooses to spend their valuable time in our studios. Our mission is to ensure that every person who moves and sweats with us feels truly seen and celebrated, leaving with a sense of accomplishment, pride, and a deeper bond with themselves and those around them.”
For these two, the evolution of the wellness space has been nothing short of transformative. They’ve not only grown up together, married and started their families within the space, it’s also been their front-row seat to how the world views fitness, health, and the mind-body connection. Over the years, the fitness world has moved from simply physical exercise to a more holistic approach—one that emphasizes mental well-being alongside physical strength. This shift was one of the driving forces behind the recent rebrand to barre3. While the name has changed, their mission hasn’t. Barre3 focuses on creating a balanced, mindful fitness experience—one that invites members to move with intention, connect with their bodies, and focus on both physical and mental well-being. It’s about finding strength in both the body and the mind, which is something Lindsay and Janelle are passionate about fostering in their community. “Recently the U.S. Surgeon General declared an epidemic of loneliness in our country. We feel called to create spaces where people can come together—not just to move their bodies but to nurture their hearts and foster meaningful relationships. Together, we work to build a sense of belonging that uplifts and sustains us as humans.” In a world where stress, burnout, and mental health challenges are more prominent than ever, they are able to meet their clients where they are at and they’re able to offer something more than a workout. It’s an invitation to slow down, be present, and connect with yourself—something that the pair believes can be transformative.
Their passion for what they do only continues to grow, and they’re constantly finding new avenues to extend their impact within the greater Rochester area from collaborating with local businesses such as Perspire Sauna Studio and Clean Your Dirty Face, to hosting pop up events at popular spots like Yates Cider Mill. Their collaborations also extend to meaningful partnerships with organizations like HAVEN Pontiac, reflecting their commitment toward women’s empowerment and serving the cities they sweat in on a deeper level. It’s not just about growing their brand, but about creating a space where people can learn, connect, and thrive together.
If you’re looking for a new fitness studio, a home away from home, or that perfect “third space” where you can truly relax, recharge, and connect with yourself - barre3 is a local haven with its arms open for you. It’s more than just a workout—it’s a community.
Oh, and did we mention your first class is totally FREE?! What are you waiting for? Commit to doing something for yourself, barre3 is waiting to welcome you home.
Barre3 is located at 1260 Walton Blvd., Rochester Hills, MI 48307 and is open seven days a week with a variety of classes offered throughout the day with childcare available for select classes. Learn more by visiting https://online.barre3.com or by calling (248) 923-2392.
“WE FEEL DEEPLY HONORED WHEN SOMEONE CHOOSES TO SPEND THEIR VALUABLE TIME IN OUR STUDIOS.”
The Heart of the Community
HOW CARON KOTELES RIHA INSPIRES ROCHESTER THROUGH REAL ESTATE AND CONNECTION
ARTICLE BY SHAUNA OLIVERIO PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSICA SNOW PHOTOGRAPHY
Why do some people stand out in a community? What unique qualities enable some leaders to create a lasting impact? The answer lies not in what they do, but in why they do it. And when you understand why Caron Koteles Riha does what she does, you begin to see why she has become such an integral part of the Rochester community.
Caron isn’t just a realtor; she’s a connector, an advocate, and a champion for the place she calls home. While working as a Certified and Degreed Paralegal, Caron gained extensive experience across various fields of law, including family law, estate planning, and many aspects of residential and commercial real estate sales, management, and acquisitions. This diverse background provided her with a deep understanding of the complexities involved in property transactions.
Homeownership was a strong personal goal for Caron, but becoming a first-time homebuyer proved to be an intimidating experience, one that ultimately shaped her career path in real estate.
For Caron, real estate is not just about transactions; it’s about transformation. Since 1994, she has helped over 1,278 families find more than just houses; she’s helped them find homes. But her “why” goes deeper than the numbers. Her journey into real estate was inspired by her own personal experience, which ignited a passion to guide others through what can often be a challenging process. “Buying my first home was overwhelming,” she shares. “I realized there was an opportunity to advocate for others, and I never looked back.” That realization has fueled a career that has generated over $380 million in home sales, but more importantly, it has built trust, relationships, and a legacy of care.
Caron prides herself on being a skilled communicator and active listener, which allows her to connect with clients, understand their unique needs, and guide them through every step of the process with clarity and confidence. Whether it’s providing hands-on support for first-time buyers or offering expert guidance to seasoned
clients, some of whom have bought and sold with her up to eight times, she tailors her approach to ensure every experience is seamless and stress-free. The best leaders understand that they are part of something greater than themselves, and Caron lives this belief every day. She doesn’t just work in Rochester; she is deeply involved in shaping its future. Her “Tuesday Chat” podcast, for example, isn’t just a platform to promote local businesses, it’s a way to amplify the voices that make Rochester unique. “We created Caron’s Corner Fireside Chat as a fun way to spread the word to Rochester about who these businesses are and what they do,” she explains. “Our town is full of amazing entrepreneurs and community leaders, and I wanted to create a space to highlight them.”
Caron’s dedication to the community extends well beyond her work in real estate. She actively serves on several boards and organizations, including the Real Estate One Charitable Foundation and the New Day Foundation for Families Fighting Cancer, where she devotes her time and energy to causes that deeply impact the community.
In addition, she co-chairs a PCN Chamber of Commerce group and a mastermind group of diverse business professionals. Recently, Caron was elected as a Director for the North Oakland County Board of Realtors, where she advocates for homeowners, homeownership, and her fellow real estate professionals. “Here in Rochester, we are all about community. This means helping each other out whenever possible.”
Each year, Caron and her team host the Annual Community Shred Event, raising funds and awareness for local families affected by cancer. She also actively volunteers for Special Olympics Michigan and has participated in the annual Polar Plunge into the Detroit River for 15 consecutive years, helping to raise money for the organization.
What makes Caron’s approach to real estate and life so impactful? It’s her belief in the power of relationships. She doesn’t just see clients; she sees people with
“Rochester is a great place to live, learn and celebrate. Maintaining strong values is important to the overall health and stability of our community, allowing for economic growth, social cohesion, and a sense of belonging.”
“Every client is unique,” she says. “There’s no one-size-fitsall approach , which is why I take the time to create personalized strategies for each situation.”
unique stories, dreams, and challenges and she treats every relationship with care and respect. “We prioritize listening to our clients and go above and beyond to tailor our services to meet their unique needs” she says, “Clients want to know their agent is accessible, connected, and can get the job done. A lot of what we handle with clients is managing expectations and elevated marketing tactics. A super strong business skill set, incredible communication skills, and the vast experience to handle the unknowns are all keys to a successful real estate story.”
Her secret? Active listening, strategic planning, and an unwavering commitment to guiding her clients through every step of the process. Whether it’s helping with decluttering, staging, or connecting clients with trusted contractors, Caron goes above and beyond to ensure a seamless experience.
Looking ahead, Caron remains focused on the evolving needs of the Rochester community. “Rochester is a great place to live, learn and celebrate. Maintaining strong values is important to the overall health and stability of our community, allowing for economic growth, social cohesion, and a sense of belonging.” “The market is always changing,” she notes, “but the need for trusted advisors never does.” Whether navigating interest rate fluctuations or new housing trends, Caron’s advice to her clients is always rooted in experience and genuine care. “Every client is unique,” she says.
“There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, which is why I take the time to create personalized strategies for each situation.”
She’s also embracing technology, integrating smart tools to enhance the buying and selling experience while maintaining the human touch that sets her apart. “Technology is a great asset,” she acknowledges, “but at the end of the day, nothing replaces personal connection.”
When she’s not selling homes or volunteering, Caron enjoys everything Rochester has to offer. Whether it’s attending local charity events, golfing with friends, or biking along the trails, she fully immerses herself in the community she loves. “Rochester isn’t just where I work,” she says. “It’s where I’ve raised my family, built lifelong friendships, and found my purpose.”
However, if you think you see Caron everywhere, take a closer look because you might just be running into her identical twin. But Caron’s passion for Rochester’s growth is contagious, and she’s excited about the future. With her daughter, Lauren Koteles, now a full-time member of her team, Caron is looking forward to continuing their shared mission of serving the community with excellence. “Having Lauren on board is amazing,” she beams. “She brings fresh ideas and energy, and our clients love her attention to detail.”
At the core of everything Caron does is a simple but profound belief: real estate is about people, and people are the heart of the community. It’s this belief that drives her to work tirelessly for her clients, advocate for local causes, and find new ways to connect and inspire.
Her story is a testament to the power of purpose, passion, and connection. And if you ask anyone in Rochester, they’ll tell you, Caron Koteles Riha isn’t just a realtor; she’s the heart of the community. For more information on Caron and her work in Rochester, visit www.caronkoteles.com.
“Technology is a great asset, but at the end of the day, nothing replaces personal connection.”
The Brunch Bar
ARTICLE BY SHAUNA OLIVERIO | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSICA SNOW PHOTOGRAPHY
YOUR FAVORITE BRUNCH SPOT
Nestled in the heart of Rochester Hills, The Brunch Bar is a welcoming new addition to the community, offering a brunch experience like no other. Founded by three passionate partners, Stacy Stathis, Tom Christoff and Chris Christoff, who grew up in the restaurant industry, The Brunch Bar was created with a shared vision: to deliver exceptional food, outstanding service, and take pride in making their guests happy. Their combined expertise and love for hospitality shine through in every detail, from the thoughtfully crafted menu to the inviting atmosphere.
To bring their dream to life, the partners welcomed Chef Angelo Loria to their leadership team. With his passion for crafting fresh, flavorful dishes and a shared drive to create unforgettable dining experiences, Chef Loria has quickly become an integral part of The Brunch Bar’s success. Together, the team envisioned a brunch destination that strikes the perfect balance, one that feels both friendly and inviting, where guests can experience the magic of fresh food, amazing service, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The design of The Brunch Bar reflects this philosophy. The space is elegant and tranquil, with a spacious dining room and a gorgeous bar that encourage guests to gather, relax, and enjoy their time. Whether it’s a casual morning with friends or a celebratory brunch, the setting is designed to feel like an extension of the neighborhood.
The menu at The Brunch Bar offers a mix of comforting classics and unique creations. Some of the team’s favorite dishes include Huevos Rancheros, Banana Bread French Toast, and the indulgent Short Rib Grilled Cheese. Every dish is thoughtfully crafted with fresh, flavorful ingredients, coming together to create a dining experience that leaves a lasting impression on every guest.
For the owners, The Brunch Bar is more than just a restaurant, it’s a place to build community. Inspired by their family restaurant growing up, they hope to create a neighborhood gathering spot where everyone knows each other, a space where guests feel connected, cared for, and always welcome. At The Brunch Bar, brunch is more than a meal; it’s an experience.
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Stacy Stathis, Owner, Tom Christoff, Owner, Chris Christoff, Owner, Angelo Loria, Executive Chef
CINNAMON SWIRL BREAD
Ingredients:
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 2 cups all purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup buttermilk
• ½ cup fresh ricotta, sour cream or additional buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350`F and spray a loaf pan with cooking spray. In a bowl mix the brown sugar with the cinnamon together until combined.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt.
4. Add the buttermilk, ricotta, sour cream or additional buttermilk, vanilla extract and flour mixture to the egg mixture and mix until well incorporated and smooth.
5. Pour 1/3 of the batter in the prepared bread pan and sprinkle with 1/3 of the brown sugar mixture, repeat with remaining batter and sprinkle remaining brown sugar mixture over the top. You should end up with 3 layers of batter and 3 layers of cinnamon sugar.
6. Transfer the loaf pan to the oven and bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean inserted in the center of the loaf. Cool in the loaf pan for 5 minutes.
7. After completely cooled, it can be wrapped and frozen or covered and left at room temperature for three days.
This bread is great to have on hand in the freezer for those last minute, impromptu gatherings of friends. Doesn’t take much time to thaw and any leftover slices would make for a delicious French Toast!
3. In another bowl, cream the butter and granulated sugar with a hand mixer, until light in color and well combined. Add the eggs in one at a time and mix until fluffy.
KEY SECRETS FOR A SPARKLING HOME
A SPRING KIND OF CLEAN
TIP #1 Freshen up the Kitchen
A fresh, clean kitchen impacts the entire home. To freshen up the sink, Kim says, “Run hot water while pouring in equal parts of baking soda and white vinegar through the disposal. Follow with a few drops of blue Dawn Dishwashing soap to cut away any grease buildup. Sharpen the disposal blades by running cooler water and ice through it. For a fresh smell, grind a few slices of lemon, lime or orange, removing any seeds first.”
To clean everything else in the kitchen, including counters and stainless-steel appliances, use a microfiber cloth and a solution of 2-3 drops of Dawn mixed with water.
TIP #2 Spruce up the Living Room
The living room also deserves special attention. Kim says, “Start by pulling furniture away from the walls, vacuuming and dusting behind it. Make sure you dust air vents as well. Then, pull all of the furniture cushions off to vacuum underneath and in crevices. It’s always good to rotate and fluff cushions too.”
To banish dust from your furniture, Kim suggests using a good microfiber cloth that is slightly damp instead of furniture polish, which can leave a build-up on furniture that actually attracts dust.
TIP #3 Brighten up Windows
Brighten up your whole home by intentionally focusing on the windows. “Homeowners often forget about the inside of the window,” says Kim. “They dust the blinds or the shutters, but when the blinds are pulled up, the windows often have dust or a film on them.” Kim suggests cleaning the inside of the windows on a cloudy day to reduce streaks. “A good glass cleaner with a microfiber cloth works really well. If you still have streaks, try using a little bit of rubbing alcohol.”
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE W. PARNELL
THE Art OF Elements
Designing a space begins with understanding The Art of Elements, the thoughtful use of finishes to bring your vision to life. Start the process with a well-chosen palette and design style. Creating a mood board can help you unveil your personal aesthetic. Draw inspiration from magazines, online resources, travel, and even nature to discover your unique style.
If starting from scratch, build your Palette with foundational finishes such as flooring, wall treatments, millwork, countertops, and tile. Ground your space with neutral tones and expand upon this base. Incorporating assorted Textures will add visual interest, while contrasting materials, like warm woodgrain paired with glossy white, create a rich, dramatic effect. To achieve a harmonious look, maintain consistency between colors, materials, and fixtures, providing connectivity and balance throughout your space.
Lighting sets the mood and brings character to a space, enhancing its overall design and functionality. It can elevate the look of a room while drawing attention to highlighted features or focal points. Choose lighting that complements the room’s purpose, and consider incorporating dimmers to easily adjust the ambiance. For a personalized touch, opt for fixtures that are sculptural or whimsical, adding both personality and style to your design.
Furniture selections should reflect your personal style and align with the room’s functionality. Start by measuring the space and being mindful of proportions to avoid overcrowding. Leave ample room for circulation, and arrange seating groupings that foster conversation or promote relaxation. Thoughtful furniture choices will enhance both the comfort and flow of your design.
Textiles are an essential element in any home, evoking feelings of comfort and luxury while transforming your space into a textural retreat. Incorporate a mix of textures, patterns, and colors
Using Finishes to Transform Your Space
ARTICLE BY LEIGH BERKHOEL PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSICA SNOW
to add depth while staying within your color palette to maintain a cohesive look. From furniture upholstery and throw pillows to drapery, rugs, table linens, bedding, and towels, each textile enriches your space and enhances its overall warmth and style. When creating a textural palette, layer fabrics with a mix of large-and small-scale patterns alongside a variety of textures. Smooth leather, cozy chunky boucle, and rich, luxurious velvet offer the perfect contrast for a dynamic and visually appealing design.
Accessories and Artwork should tell your story, reflecting your personality and experiences. Be authentic and thoughtful in your displays, choosing bold yet simple pieces that make a statement. Embrace eclectic combinations, uniformity can feel uninspired. Add a whimsical or quirky touch for charm, but avoid overcrowding displays to let individual items shine. Artwork is deeply personal, and art collections are cultivated over time as part of your journey. Be adventurous by exploring local estate sales, galleries, or art fairs to curate a collection that is uniquely yours.
Books are an essential staple in any space, bringing character, color, and a touch of intellectual curiosity. Stack them, lean them, or display a single book on a table for a minimalist statement. Enhance their impact by topping or flanking them with decorative objects, creating a dynamic and visually interesting display that reflects your personality and style.
Nature has a unique way of bringing peace and calm to any space, offering a grounding connection that enriches our lives. Take a walk and discover foraged finds, gather rocks along the Lake Michigan shore, search for unique driftwood, or collect in-season flowers or greenery to display in a beautiful vase. Whether real or faux, greenery injects life and energy into your home. If you don’t have a green thumb or have limited natural light, opt for hardy plants like snake plants or ZZ plants, which thrive with little light and infrequent watering. Bringing the outdoors in will not only enhance your space but also warm your soul.
Your home is more than just a physical space, it’s a canvas that reflects your story, your style, and the life you live. By embracing The Art of Elements, you can thoughtfully combine finishes, textures, and personal touches to create a space that is uniquely yours.
Your Home is a reflection of the life You live. Be true to yourself and your needs.
Live Well.
