Winc September 2014

Celebrating 10 years

Yours Truly

Celebrating 15 years in business

W INS BU OME IDE SI N : NE IN SS

WOMENSINC.NET

WINC. SEPTEMBER 2014

FIRST SECURITY AD

MICHAEL COOPER AD

WINC. Celebrating 10 years

Publisher Zach Ahrens Editor Lori Quinn

Creative Director Stewart Cole Sara Alvis Contributing Writers Detra Clark Joe Lamb Andrea Lennon Jill McCollum Joe Lamb Susan O’Keefe Rachel Parker Dickerson Jennifer Stanley Chief Photographer Brandy Strain Contributing Photographers Lindsey Faith Watson Eric White Amy Armistead Videographer Eric White Advertising Coordinator Molly May Advertising Sales Sarah Allen Betsey Barham Tara Mallett Advertising Artists Jay Prince Tyler Rachel Editorial Advisory Board Donna Benton Detra Clark Nicolle Fletcher Haley Crafton Fowler Sarah Frost Mary Harlan Nancy Jackson Cate Ketcheside Leslie Kostecky Caroline LaVan Velda Lueders Candace Meeks Misty Morse Carol Patty Amy Reed Lori Ross Mary Margaret Satterfield Katherine Thomason Stefanie Holt Vann Jessica Zimmerman Women’s Inc. is published by the Log Cabin Democrat.

Questions or Comments?

Call (501) 327-6621, e-mail: womensinc@womensinc.net or write to P.O. Box 969, Conway, AR, 72033 www.womensinc.net 4 WOMEN’S INC. / SEPTEMBER 2014

FROM THE EDITOR Lori Quinn

Women in Business

Women’s Inc. is celebrating Women in Business. Cinda Montgomery is the perfect woman to feature as our cover story this month. Cinda, owner of Your Truly Consignment, has worked hard to build a successful business in downtown Conway. This year they are celebrating 15 years in business.

With more than 25 employees, 20,000 square feet and more than 15,000 items arriving at the store each month, Yours Truly Consignment is “largest (consignment store) in The South”. If you haven’t had a chance yet to stop in and shop or consign, now is the time.

Women’s Inc. wishes you 15 more years of success!

We are especially excited in September each year to have our special section: Women in Business. We have highlighted women who are in many different fields of work: from accountants, retail store owners, Realtors, veterinarians, physicians, salon owners, fitness experts, bankers and more. These Women in Business profiles will allow you to get to know more about some of your old favorites and introduce you to some women in business who will quickly become some of your new favorites. Thank you to all who participated this year.

In our home section this month, Stacy Fulmer, along with designer Reggie Marshall, helped her 15year-old daughter, Lauren, update her bedroom. She wanted a more “mature, soothing place for Lauren to spend her time.” This calm, neutral palate bedroom would be perfect for a woman of any age. Check out the beautiful photos starting on p.

40.

Also, this month: how to plan a fabulous child’s birthday party (p.44), Mediterranean stuffed chicken, lemon almond rice, and roasted Brussels sprouts recipes (p.46), Mommy Blog (p.49), and events featuring the Boys and Girls Club Shop and Sip at Fletcher Smith’s and the Boys and Girls Club Auction (p.50).

contents

6 11 women in business

cover story

Yours Truly celebrates 15 years in business

homes

Fulmer home all grown up

special annual acknowledgements

40 44 accents

decorating for baby’s first birthday

38 The Kitchen Store

39 style

46 food

50 events

what’s your favorite?

Mediterranean stuffed chicken, lemon almond rice, & roasted Brussels sprouts

Statements provides designs for every home

boys and girls club shop and sip & boys and girls club auction

53 Studio Skin

Cherry Blooms fiber lash extensions

columns 10 spirituality

letting go of busyness in your day

by Andrea Lennon

48 cooking tips for busy moms

by Chef Jill McCollum

49 mommy blog guilt be gone

by Brooke Allen

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COVER STORY

Yours Truly for 15 years Cinda Montgomery, owner of Yours Truly Consignment, Inc. in downtown Conway, is celebrating 15 years of being in business.

By Jennifer Stanley Photos by BrandyStrain Cinda Montgomery of Conway is the proprietor of local retail store Yours Truly Consignment, Inc. Having been in business for 15 years, Yours Truly remains a popular destination for area shoppers.

Cinda is married to Greg Montgomery and has three children: Jordan, Logan, and Makenzie Ehren. The family enjoys living in Conway, stating, “I love that Conway is a growing community and has been a great place to start our business. We have so many friends here and an amazing church family at Second Baptist Church.”

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Cinda has been part of Yours Truly from its inception in 1999. “It has always been a family business; my three kids have been heavily involved over the last 15 years,” explains Cinda, whose childhood gave her inspiration for the store. “I was raised by a single mom who drug me around to bargain shops and flea markets. She found cute things, and we never knew we were poor.

We looked nice, and I had a fun childhood,” she says. “I did learn to be thrifty from her, and that continued into my young married years. I shopped for good deals at Goodwill and various consignment shops.”

After the idea was formed, Cinda visited various shops to determine the needs of shoppers and

consignors. She also factored in her family’s own preferences. The conglomeration resulted in a well-run, comprehensive retail experience. “Yours Truly offers convenience and a friendly, clean, and organized place to shop. We color code and size everything, it smells nice, and we work hard to keep our inventory spotless. We rotate the clothing through a sale cycle; after so many days on the sales floor, the items are reduced by 25 percent, then 50 percent, and finally 75 percent before being donated. We always donate to great organizations that use the clothing to benefit those in need,” shares Cinda. “We are also involved with and give to many worthy organizations around Conway. This shop is a blessing to many people, and I am so grateful for that.” Tax receipts are

available to consignors who have items donate. The store offers a unique shopping experience. One differentiator is the play area, which provides a safe place for children to play while their parents shop. They also offer clean bathrooms and take consignments with no appointment and no limits.

Of her early days with the store, Cinda explains there were no large-scale consignment shops in Conway. “My vision was to serve the masses, to intake and tag thousands of items each week, and to build a strong shopper base as a result of offering new items daily.” Yours Truly has met these goals, and their loyal customer base is testament to the business philosophy. “I still have my very first consignor, Holly Meriweather. She is not only a consignor but a shopper in the store. She is the mom of triplets and was always a smart shopper. We have also employed one of her triplets, Sidney, who is now a college student.”

Today, Yours Truly has 25 employees; ten are full-time, and 15 are part-time, mostly college students. “We have girls who have a great knack for production: intake and hanging and tagging the merchandise requires a very organized, thorough employee. We have other employees who keep our sales floor organized, help our customers, and manage the registers. A lot is required of these ladies and guys, and we are thankful to have some of the best staff in Conway! I couldn’t do this shop without all of them. They make Yours Truly a better place for all who enter.”

Alexis Bibbs (left) and Ana Martinez (right) pictured with Cinda Montgomery are the Young Adult and Social Media Directors.

For potential consignors, Yours Truly accepts a variety of clothing and accessories for men and women of all ages.

They tag an average of 15,000 new items per month, and new items hit the floor each day. (Note: for those interested in children’s consignment, the kids store, owned by David and Tammy Free, does the same.) The ever-changing inventory is key to the success of Yours Truly. Currently, they are accepting items for all seasons. However, as Cinda explains, “Come October we will be taking winter items only, and in January we will switch over to accepting all seasons until March, when we will take spring and summer items only.”

Yours Truly offers clothing and accessories spanning multiple genres, from young adult/teen to maternity, plus size, women, and men. “We have begun to buy young adult and teen clothing to stay in competition with some of the new, small shops around town. We have it all and a lot of it; the merchandise is what draws all ages from near and far,” explains Cinda.

Makenzie Ehren with her mom Cinda Montgomery

Best sellers include maternity and plus size. “These items sell quickly, and we are striving to increase the amount of merchandise in both areas.” Yours Truly will continue to adjust supply to meet the needs of their loyal shoppers and consignors. “We want your consignment of all sizes, from size zero to plus size! We are selling it all but would love more jeans, maternity, plus size, men’s and teen clothing.

We are also selling a lot of handbags and jewelry. Bring it all to one place and let our 15 years of experience work for you!”

For those considering consigning with Yours Truly, they typically accept clothing purchased within the last two years, new or gently used. Items should have no stains, holes, or odors of any kind. The store accepts consignments Monday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.

“All items must be clean and show no obvious signs of wear, and we cannot take items with smoke, storage, or pet odors.

Department supervisors: Chris Williams, Melissa Mclelland, Teresa Jackson, Cinda Montgomery, Sherry Dowdy, and Crystal Hutchinson WWW.WOMENSINC.NET 7

We are a 40/60 split, and if the consignor chooses to spend their money as store credit, they will earn ten percent more,” explains Cinda.

“We offer the convenience of no appointment and no hangers are required; our staff does the work for you. We ask consignors to bring in items and will inspect them carefully under our bright, white lighting over our intake counters, which allows us to eliminate items with problems. Our intake staff will do a quick double check and will then begin the production process of hanging, re-inspecting, and tagging each item.

We usually have new items on the sales floor within a few days, and some items start selling the day we send them out,” Cinda expounds. For additional detail regarding consignment, the website provides a full contract for review.

In addition, Yours Truly has embraced social media as a marketing mechanism. As Cinda explains, “If items show up on our Instagram page, they are gone within hours.” They also have a Facebook page, which is updated daily, and a Pinterest account, where they post new fashion ideas and inspiration. They occasionally conduct giveaways via social media, so give them a like or a follow. In other discount opportunities, the store offers 20 percent off storewide days around certain holidays Despite being in business for 15 years, Cinda and the staff are constantly learning and evolving to meet the needs of their customers. “We have been a growing and changing business. We

have expanded many times and are now in almost 20,000 square feet. Yours Truly is ‘The Largest in The South,’ and I’m positive we are the nicest and cleanest!” enthuses Cinda. “We have served over 20,000 consignors over these last 15 years. We are always adjusting to the times, increasing our staff to make it quick to get in and out, and we have loads of dressing rooms and can accommodate the disabled and mothers with strollers. We are computerized, and our system updates with each sale. Consignors can actually get a payout for their item the moment it sells at the register. I think that’s pretty awesome!”

Crystal Roberts says, “I can’t express how much I love Yours Truly! I have never went shopping there and come out empty handed! So much to choose from, unbelievably great prices, clearance sales on top of great prices....there is one whole room that is all clearance items not to mention clearance items throughout the entire store, so very organized, amazingly sweet and helpful staff, and such a welcoming atmosphere! Perfect for a family on a budget! I have talked so much about the great deals and awesome clothes that I have gotten from Yours Truly that my Sister-n-law from St. Louis is going shopping there today while she is here!”

The store constantly works on process improvement. “Each year we learn new ways to serve our customers and consignors better; we process faster and are more organized than ever before. We have a great new intake area and can handle more merchandise than in years past. We have opened a much larger, nicer clearance area, a new plus size boutique, and a very trendy accessory room along with the contemporary young adult area. It’s a great place to shop, and I love to hear the comments of shoppers who have just discovered the store. They are always amazed at how large we are and how much we look like a ‘new’ store. I like hearing that, because that is our goal.”

Susan Hope says, “I’ve been shopping @ Yours Truly for years. I’ve watched them grow and grow.

People like me want the BEST value for their money. I find it HARD to shop retail when I can shop YOURS TRULY!”

Business Information: Open 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

1052 Harrison Street, Suite 1-5 Phone: 501-336-0960 www.yourstrulyconsignment.com

The main sales floor receives more than 15,000 new items each month.

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Employee Alexis Bibbs, a UCA student who began working at Yours Truly her senior year at Conway High, says, “I am so thankful for my time at Yours Truly as an employee. It has provided me with a creative outlet and has taught me so much about myself and others.”

“Working at Yours Truly has been so much more than a first job. I am so thankful to have had the opportunity to run our social media and help facilitate the startup of our new young adult department.”

“During my time at Yours Truly I have found a creative outlet through directing our social media and helping facilitate the launch of our new Young Adult department.”

There is a large production area where the intake of new items is handled everyday.

Yours Truly Consignment has recently expanded their dressing room area.

Yours Truly is especially proud of their Plus Size Department.

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SPIRITUALITY

Letting go of busyness in your day

W

By Andrea Lennon

ould you describe your life as busy? I think many of us would answer “yes” to this question. Let’s face it. We live in a day and age where busyness is expected and even applauded. As women, we are required to multi-task daily in order to balance home, work, church, social, and civic duties.

As a result, it is not uncommon for us to fall into the trap of simply trying to survive. When this occurs, we find ourselves barely completing one task before we have to move on to the next task.

Have you ever been there? If so, you know what I am talking about. Maybe you feel the tightness in your chest just thinking about the busyness in your day. Perhaps you know what it is like to have more on your “to do” list than what you can accomplish. You have lived through your fair share of days where you woke up early in the morning and rushed through your day. Then when you went to bed that night, you discovered that there was still more that you needed to accomplish.

I just wonder if I am speaking to anyone? Let me be the first to admit that I am writing this column from experience. I find myself having to deal with my fair share of busy days.

In moments of busyness what can we do? More importantly, what should we do? I have found that one of the best things that we can do is simply stop. That’s right. Just stop. Once we stop we are able to catch our breath and ask God to give us His perspective on our day.

Jesus said, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and

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learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30, New International Version) I find these verses of scripture to be reassuring. These verses offer an invitation to a life that is more meaningful than a day full of endless “to do’s.” Jesus invites us to come to Him and find rest, meaning, and purpose for our day.

This invitation is not for the person who likes to gain their sense of identity from their busyness. Nor is this invitation for the self-sufficient person who thinks they have the ability to manage their own lives. Rather, this invitation is for the humble or meek person who knows that they are in over their head.

If you are tired of the busyness and longing for a little rest in your day, take a time-out from the chaos going on around you and get alone with Jesus. Ask Jesus to do a mighty work in your life. Begin each day with prayer asking Jesus to show you which tasks you need to take on and which tasks you need to let go. As Jesus directs you, the tightness in your chest will diminish, your ability to sense Jesus’ work in your life will improve, and you will actually begin to enjoy life instead of trying to conquer it.

Andrea Lennon lives in Conway, Arkansas, with her husband, Jay, and sons, Jake and Andrew.

Andrea ministers to the women of Arkansas through a speaking and writing ministry called True Vine Ministry. To learn more about this ministry, access Andrea’s website at www. andrealennon.net.

LACI BOOTH CO-OWNER / THE FLOWER BOOTH

Laci Booth is co-owner of The Flower Booth florist and gift shop at 810 Amity Road. The new store opened in February.

“I was a stay at home mom for five years and worked holidays for a local florist. I’ve always known I wanted to own my own business,” she said. “After working for a florist it was very clear to me I had found my calling. I love working with people on a daily basis, whether it’s to put a smile on someone’s face, create lasting wedding memories or give the last gift to a loved one as they are laid to rest.”

She added, “I have always known I wanted to career where I could work with my hands. A career that was handson learning and creative.”

Asked what she, as a woman, brings to her industry that is different than what a man could bring, she said, “There are many talented men in the floral world. I feel like women bring more compassion for people then men. When you’re working with a bride or family, women tend to care more and want to listen more to their ideas to create a lasting impression. As a mother of two daughters I pray that someday they will aspire to own their own businesses.”

As for the future of her business, she said, “I see myself having more than one location as there is a need in central Arkansas.”

Booth and her husband, Andrew, have been married for eight years. They have three children, twin daughters Rhealea and Marlea, 7, and a son, Beckett, 3. Booth is a lifelong Faulkner County resident and has lived in Conway since getting married in 2006.

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WINC: WOMEN IN BUSINESS 2014

PATTI STOBAUGH OWNER / PATTICAKES

PattiCakes Business Information: Location: 2106 Robinson Ave, Conway Phone Number: (501) 205-1969 www.patticakesbakery.net

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PattiCakes Bakery of Conway is more than a place where scrumptious treats can be purchased – it’s also the grownup dream of a little girl who loved fourth-grade tea parties!

Patti Stobaugh opened PattiCakes Bakery in Russellville in 2006, followed by PattiCakes of Conway in November 2010 – a joint venture with her husband David.

PattiCakes is located behind Stoby’s restaurant at 2106 Robinson Ave. It is best described as “a primarily scratch bakery dedicated to serving desserts reminiscent of a visit to Grandma’s. Whether you are looking for the perfect wedding cake, an evening meal, an after-school treat for the kids, yummy soup on a warm day, the perfect birthday cake, or so much more, you’ve come to the right place!”

Patti’s work life started far from the bakery business. She earned a bachelor of arts in accounting from Lyon College in Batesville and spent two years majoring in biology at the University of Arkansas. “My first career choice was Physical Therapy. That was before I knew I would have to work on a cadaver in PT school and I faint at the sight of blood! Accounting was never on my radar, but it is a good degree to have.

When my youngest son left for college, I left the corporate world to work with my husband at Stoby’s.”

Patti says she is surprised it took so long to open a bakery. “I come from a family of great cooks and bakers. When I was in 4th grade, I had a tea party for my girlfriends. I made little appetizers and told the group that someday I would have a business cooking for other people.”

The design of the PattiCakes building was very intentional. “When PattiCakes was in the planning stage, my dream was for our customers to feel like they were visiting their grandma’s home. That is why we have wooden screen doors! Keeping PattiCakes homey is the focus of our future plans, which will include adding new items as the business continues to grow. Our casserole business has grown tremendously this past year. We will continue to add new savory items, salads and soups as well as updating our sweet products.”

Patti says she has been very happy since moving to Conway. “I was living in Maumelle and working in Conway. Eventually it made sense to take my boys out of private school in Little Rock and move to Conway. Around that time, I met David Stobaugh. We married in 2001. Having grown up in a large city (San Antonio, Texas), I love and appreciate the hometown feel of Conway.

To contact Patti or her team at PattiCakes, call 501-205-1969. Information can also be found at www.patticakesbakery.net, on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/pattiCakesBakery, and on Twitter @pattiecakesar.

WINC: WOMEN IN BUSINESS 2014

JOANIE HART, LESLIE LAMB, CHRISTY RASICO, LAUREN TALBOT ADMISSIONS COORDINATOR/ASSESSMENT NURSE, ASST. ADMIN, DIRECTOR OF NURSING, ADMIN

Heritage Living Center Business Information: Location: 1175 Morningside Dr., Conway Phone Number: (501) 327-7642

For the women of Heritage Living Center in Conway, making a difference in the lives of their residents is their number one priority.

Heritage Living Center is a skilled nursing facility that provides short and long-term stays, with the option for all three skills of rehabilitation. Lauren Talbot, the facilities Administrator, has worked for Reliance Healthcare almost two years and Heritage Living Center just over a year.

Lauren previously served as Executive Director of the Arkansas Prostate Cancer Foundation. Although she was serving in the field of healthcare with the Foundation her calling has long been the elderly community. “I am beyond ecstatic to be a part of Heritage Living Center,” she said. At HLC, I get to make a difference in someone’s life every day.

What’s better than that?”

A big part of the Heritage team is Assistant Administrator Leslie Lamb, who has worked with Reliance for 18 years. Leslie has always been interested in health care, initially looking at a career in pediatrics. “But once I started adult rehabilitation in 1990, I was hooked! I later became a certified stroke therapist so I could better serve my patients in this setting,” she said. Leslie is particularly excited about a new addition scheduled to begin in September, which will add more rehab and long-term care rooms to the existing facility. Electronic documentation will also begin in October, which will enable the staff to provide more efficient care to patients.

Joanie Hart is an LPN, admission coordinator and referral nurse at Heritage. She has worked at the facility for 5 ½ years and loves her second career in nursing.

“I stayed home raising my children until they entered school. At that point I decided I wanted a job with flexibility, so that’s when I started working with a friend hanging wallpaper,” she said. “I hung wallpaper for 14 years for contractors in Conway. When wallpaper went out and business slowed, I decided to go to nursing school. I made the right decision.

At Heritage Living Center, while admitting residents as well as meeting and working with families, I get to show love and compassion. … I have a heart for helping people and making them feel at home here at Heritage.”

Christy Rasico is an RN and Director of Nursing for Heritage. She has been an employee of Heritage two years and with Reliance for 11 years.

“I’ve been in long-term care since 1996, and even though I’m in a field where the administrator’s role is sometimes dominated by men, I feel as a woman we bring more care and compassion to these positions.” Christy was chosen as a finalist for Director of Nursing of the Year in 2009, something of which she is particularly proud.

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WINC: WOMEN IN BUSINESS 2014

KIM SLAUGHTER-MILLER OWNER / BLUE FOCUS

The Blue FOCUS Business Information:

www.theblueFOCUS.com www.facebook.com/theblueFOCUS 14 WOMEN’S INC. / SEPTEMBER 2014

Kim Slaughter-Miller is a business consultant, graphic designer, marketing expert and small business owner. She has been published in several trade journals over the years offering her unique insight into marketing, business and sales. She started The Blue FOCUS, a Facebook marketing and management company for small businesses in 2010.

“We will create, design or redesign, and manage your Facebook page,” she said. “We bring new fans, interact with fans and drive sales to your business. We also offer graphic design services, blogging and SEO services using Facebook.”

Slaughter-Miller has a business and marketing degree. She was the owner of Prism Marketing and Management, a small business consulting firm in Dallas, for more than 15 years. IN 2013, she sold it so she could move back to Arkansas. “Arkansas is where I was raised and will always be home,” she explains. Three years ago, she reconnected with her high school sweetheart via Facebook of all places. “Coming back home to be close to friends and family was always a goal,” says Kim “I have always loved art and design, and that is why I love marketing. I love creating the design and plan and then implementing the marketing campaign,” she said.

Asked what she, as a woman, brings to her industry that is different than what a man might bring, she responded, “An eye for design, color, layout and a women’s touch to marketing and branding a company. Plus, an added sensitivity to the needs of my clients and the emotions that drive today’s successful marketing campaigns. Connecting to your target audience’s emotions and what motivates them to make purchases can make the difference between a successful marketing campaign and an unsuccessful one.”

She said with Facebook’s constant changes and new implementation of rules on marketing business pages, keeping up can be challenging. Staying ahead of her competition and ensuring her clients stay ahead of their competition takes being constantly on top of an ever changing digital marketing environment.

“I would like to develop a stronger local presence,” she said. “I would love to bring my hands-on approach to local small business and help the business community where I grew up with their Facebook and design needs.”

Kim Slaughter-Miller and her husband, Johnny, have three dogs and couldn’t be happier living in Conway.

WINC: WOMEN IN BUSINESS 2014

BEVERLY ARNOLD OWNER / BEVY’S

Beverly Arnold, owner of Bevy’s Custom Drapery, Monograms and Gifts, grew up in a sewing circle of sorts, gaining insight into the trade from her mother and two grandmothers.

Bevy’s offers monogram and drapery fabrication service. The business moved to its downtown Conway location at 1022 Oak St. about nine years ago.

Beverly started her path 28 years ago from a friend requesting her to make a drapery. She began the store front to offer a monogram service, “because it was hard to find someone to monogram an outside item.”

“I did not think I would be doing this when growing up,” Arnold said. “I was always around fabric and sewing from my mom and [two] grandmothers.”

A Conway native, Beverly graduated from Conway High School and attended the University of Central Arkansas.

“When we opened the store front with the monogram machines we offered a service for outside items, meaning you didn’t have to buy the item in our store,”she said. “This has allowed us to do some great monogram jobs, from company [logos] and large volume of towel or blankets to commission work that is digitized (created just for stitch) and embroidered on a special fabric.”

Bevy’s, which monograms on items such as clothing, bags, metal surfaces and gifts, can design a monogram up to 14 inches.

Beverly and her husband, Richie, have one son and two daughters, respectively: Dustin, Catherine and Natalie.

Dustin works at Bevy’s, using his graphic design degree to create commissioned works through design software.

ALLISON REED OWNER / STATEMENTS

Statements, a vibrant boutique specializing in unique home accessories and fabulous gifts for the woman who has seen it all and wants something different, has only been open for about a year, but it’s impact has been felt by the downtown Conway community. Allison Reed, owner of Statements, said that she could have predicted her career path.

“I’m not surprised that I ended up in retail,” she said.

“I love to shop and talk to people, so retail is a natural fit.”

Receiving her degree from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville, Allison was a stay-at-home mom before getting involved in the retail industry.

“I try to bring relatability to the people who shop in my store,” Allison said. “I understand wanting something different or pretty and sticking to a budget. I also know that everyone wants to bring a little flair to their home, and sometimes need a little encouragement to step outside the box.”

Allison and her husband, Blake, came to Conway straight of college after Blake had began working for Acxiom. Their family, including two children — Grant and Ellie — have been in Conway for 14 years.

While Allison doesn’t know the specifics of her long term plans, she does know one thing.

“I plan to be in the retail industry for a long time,” she said. “It’s a career I find very fulfilling.”

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WINC: WOMEN IN BUSINESS 2014

KRISTY FRUITS OWNER / K2K SALON

Kristy Fruits relocated her salon business, K2K Salon and Spa, to Conway from New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina and has since planted her roots in Arkansas.

In New Orleans, Kristy opened Salon Callidora with two stylists before moving to the Natural State.

Before venturing into salon ownership, Kristy apprenticed and worked as a stylist at JKL Salon in Matairie, Louisiana for 11 years. She received advance training from Bumble and Bumble in New York, at Redken Exchange in New York and assisted on photoshoots for the North American Hairstyling Awards.

“The business continues to grow and thrive,” Kristy said. “I have a small group of wonderful women that share my vision in the salon.”

K2K provides exclusive hair care product brands – Oribe and R+Co. – to customers.

For Kristy, the salon business offers a true bond with clients that she says only women can have.

“Being a woman, making other women look and feel their best is fantastic,” she said. “I absolutely understand the demands of being a wife, mother, caretaker and bread winner all the while trying to look our best while doing it.”

Kristy is taking her experience and helping her stylists grow professionally, responding to consumer demands for higher quality services.

“Highly educated passionate stylists are the future and I firmly believe in mentoring a passionate heart,” Kristy said. “Pay it forward, always. Women need to empower other women.”

Kristy said she is proud of the deep connections she has made in the business.

“The stylists, who have mentored me over the years and my clients have and continue to help me grow as a person,” she said.

K2K Salon Business Information: Location: 1310 Prince St, Conway Phone Number: (501) 764-1097

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WINC: WOMEN IN BUSINESS 2014

LETITIA MCMASTER OWNER / BACK ACHERS RANCH

Letitia McMaster, the owner and operator of Back Achers Ranch Equestrian Center and Legends Restaurant, is able to provide a service that is not common — a boarding facility for horses that also offers riding lessons, a venue for horse shows, barrel races, rodeos, bull riding as well as weddings, birthday parties and business meetings. The restaurant offers home-cooked meals six days a week including a Sunday lunch.

“We have great burgers, steaks, sandwiches, salads, sides and desserts,” she said. “We also offer take out and catering.”

Letitia bought Back Achers Ranch in 2004, but she installed the arena and restaurant complex in 2012. A graduate of John Brown University and the University of Central Arkansas, Letitia received her education in physical therapy and practiced it for 32 years before deciding that Back Achers Ranch would become her second career. “Growing up on a ranch in Cedarville was the impetus for getting back to my roots where we raised cattle, horses and chickens,” she said.

Letitia doesn’t look at her current situation as work. “It’s a passion of mine, just like physical therapy is,” she said. “I love seeing the transition in children from timid to bravery as their confidence grows from riding horses. They realize they can conquer anything they set out to do.”

She wants to continue the operation for several more years “until a younger protégé can take over and let me work in the garden.

“I am thankful that my parents gave me so many wonderful opportunities and memories on the ranch I grew up on,” she said. “I believe that my confidence and drive are in part due to my life experiences on the farm and ranch.”

CHRIS QUINN

OWNER / FURNITURE CONSIGNMENT PLACE Throughout her working career, Chris Quinn always looked toward owning her own business. Her wish came true in 2011 when she purchased the Furniture Consignment Place at 1052 Harrison St. in downtown Conway.

Chris said she was working in advertising sales and sold newspaper ads to the then-owner of the business. They developed a friendship, and when the owner learned about Chris’ desire to own a business, she said “Why don’t you just buy this?” Chris said they came to terms on the sale within a month and she was off and running.

The Furniture Consignment Place offers unique and quality items to choose from for customers and a great place for consignors to showcase and sell their furniture. The showroom houses furniture, home decor, rugs, lamps and artwork, and everything is in great condition and priced very reasonably. All consignment items are an 8 or above on a scale of 10 as far as condition is concerned.

Some new items are also available in the store at great prices to keep the stock moving.

Prospective consignors may call the business at 501-450-6380 and talk with Chris’ staff about the items they have to sell. Delivery and pickup is available, some of which is provided by Chris’ son Jason and his business, Mustard Seed Moving of Arkansas.

Chris has worked in retail management for more than 30 years, including as manager of the furniture department at Montgomery Ward. She and her husband moved their family to Conway in 1989 because of the great schools.

For more information about the store, visit the website at http:// consignfurnitureconway.com or “like” their page on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ConwayConsignment.

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WINC: WOMEN IN BUSINESS 2014

TRESSIE SARTAIN PUBLIC ACCOUNTANT / CONNER & SARTAIN

Conner & Sartain Business Information: Location: 985 Carson Cove, Conway Phone Number: (501) 327-6688 www.connerandsartain.com

18 WOMEN’S INC. / SEPTEMBER 2014

After spending 28 years as a top-notch certified public accountant, Tressie Sartain is a perfect example of how women can excel in a “man’s” industry.

Tressie is a partner with Bo Conner in their firm, Conner and Sartain PA of Conway. They provide professional services that include auditing, accounting, tax preparation, and management advisory services. A spinoff of the former Malpica, Shock & Company Ltd, the firm is now diversified in all areas of accounting practice and continues the great service provided by Conway’s oldest and largest accounting firm.

Although her Grandmother Thessing had a different vision for her future, Tressie knew early on that she was meant to be an accountant. “My decision was made in high school to be an accountant. My part-time job through college as a bookkeeper convinced me I liked the work. I have worked as an accountant ever since,” she said. “My Grandmother Thessing was not happy I was in a ‘man’s’ profession – she dreamed of me being an English teacher instead! However, that has now changed – 61 percent of all accountants and auditors are females.”

Tressie earned a bachelor of business administration degree in 1986 from the University of Central Arkansas and is a proud graduate of St. Joseph High School. She earned her Arkansas CPA certification in September 1987.

“There is more to being successful in accounting than being able to ‘crunch’ numbers.

I feel like my ability to multi-task, my attention to detail and organizational abilities are very advantageous to servicing clients,” she said.

Having a picture of the past has helped Tressie prepare for the future. “Technology continues to create change and advances in accounting.

From Mr. Malpica and Mr. Shock’s comptometer to ten-key adding machines to the complex computer programs that now generate our tax returns and audit workpapers in paperless format – just the everyday practice of being an accountant continues to really change.

Our firm has seen steady growth as the city of Conway continues to grow. New clients always offer exciting opportunities.”

Tressie’s family is always at the top of the list on her priorities. “My main occupation as indicated on my own tax return has always been my role as mother to my three boys! With the grace of God and tremendous help and support from my husband, I have also been able to maintain a successful accounting career.”

Tressie’s immediate family includes husband Mike, and sons Nick, Travis and David. She is a daughter of the late David & Christine Thessing.

“I was born, raised, educated and have always worked in the great city of CONWAY!” If you would like more information about Tressie and the services she provides, please call 327-6688 or visit the firm’s website at www.connerandsartain.com.

WINC: WOMEN IN BUSINESS 2014

ALEISHA MCNUTT

EVENT DIRECTOR / CENTENNIAL VALLEY COUNTRY CLUB Aleisha McNutt is the event director at Centennial Valley Country Club.

She said, “We are a full service banquet hall (The Center at Centennial Valley) capable of hosting weddings, corporate events, golf tournaments, showers, birthday parties, civic groups, dinners, brunches, luncheons, etc., ranging in size from 25 people to 500 people. I also manage our restaurant, the 19th Hole.”

She has been the event director since October 2009.

“I started waiting tables in the club’s restaurant (the 19th Hole) while in school to be an English major. My manager, Reggie Rose, saw that I had a strong work ethic and started having me assist with some of his office work while waiting tables. I continued to take on more and more duties, and when the previous event director left, he offered me the position. I knew I would not be able to finish school while working full-time so I discussed it with my family and I made the tough decision to postpone school and accepted the job offer. While I never envisioned myself as a party planner, it seems to come naturally to me. I love working at Centennial and have never regretted my choice.”

As for the future, McNutt says she will continue to learn and hone her skills in event planning and catering.

“I think as long as women keep working hard and listening to their heart there is no limit to what we can achieve,” she said.

She is married to Paul McNutt, and they have two dogs, a Pug named Pugsy and a Chihuahua named Sophie.

SENA CRAFTON OWNER / GRAND ON OAK

Sena Lovette-Crafton, owner of the Grand on Oak women’s clothing boutique, has worked in other boutiques on and off for about 20 years, but this is the first she has owned.

“I have two daughters, Laura Wetzel and Catherine Brown,” Sena said. “I was a stay at home mom, working part time some while they were growing up. I always wanted to own my own boutique after they were grown.”

Sena always knew she would be working in a boutique environment, although she noted that “nothing ever stays the same in retail.”

“Customer service will always be the key to success,” she said. “Social media and online shopping has definitely changed the world of retail. You have to change with the times and technology, but customer service will always be the most important key for a small business.”

Grand on Oak only carries clothes for women, and Sena stated that “women traditionally dominate this business.”

Despite the changes that obviously come in this line of work, there is not much Sena would change, especially since she is incredibly proud of what she is able to offer the community.

“I love what I do, and I put my heart and soul into it,” she said. “I think honest hard work should make anyone proud at whatever they do.”

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WINC: WOMEN IN BUSINESS 2014

LAUREN ERION OWNER / LAUREN ERION, CPA, P.A.

Lauren Erion Business Information: Location: 815 Hogan Lane, Suite 8 Conway Phone number: 501-499-9665 www.laurenerion.com

20 WOMEN’S INC. / SEPTEMBER 2014

Lauren Erion knew from an early age that she wanted to be a certified public accountant and that she also wanted to own her own firm. After years of hard work and dedication, she has achieved just that!

Lauren Erion, CPA, P.A. provides tax consulting and tax preparation for individuals and businesses. Full service bookkeeping, and compilation and review services are also offered. With the support of her clients and family, she opened her practice in December 2011.

“I have the privilege of working closely with my clients to assist them with their accounting needs. I look forward to being able to interact with my clients, and I consider it a privilege to build a relationship with each of them. While most don’t view accounting as exciting, it’s the relationships with people that make it fun for me,” Lauren says.

Lauren graduated from Conway High School. She then obtained a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from the University of Central Arkansas. A Master of Business Administration from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock soon followed.

“I took accounting classes in high school and began working for Kathy Brents, CPA, in the 10th grade,” says Lauren. “From early on, I knew I wanted to become a CPA. I grew up working in my family business, Austin Brothers Tire & Service, and knew that I always wanted to own my own practice.”

Family has always been the center of Lauren’s life. She loves being able to raise her family in Conway, where her and her husband’s family reside. Since starting her practice, Lauren has been continually supported by her family and believes this is a crucial part of her success as a business owner.

Lauren resides in Conway with her husband Matt, and their two daughters, Ava and Ella.

Through work with other firms, Lauren learned what it takes to be successful. “I am thankful for the opportunities I have had during my career. I am blessed to have worked for some great CPA firms: Dixon Hughes formerly Rhea & Ivy in Memphis; Frost, PLLC formerly Moore, Stephens, Frost, in Little Rock; and Conner & Sartain in Conway. I am forever grateful for their influence on me both professionally and personally.”

Lauren sees a bright future for her firm. “I will evolve with the accounting industry and assist current and future clients in achieving their individual goals —no matter what their business,” she says. “I also hope to grow my practice by adding more staff as well as adding more clients.”

Lauren’s office is located at 815 Hogan Lane, Suite, 8, and she can be reached at 501-499-9665. Also, visit her website at www. laurenerion.com for more information.

WINC: WOMEN IN BUSINESS 2014

MARGARET SMITH

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT OF MARKETING / FIRST SECURITY BANK

Margaret Smith has been with First Security Bank for 13 successful years, and currently is Senior Vice President of Marketing A graduate of the Barrett School of Banking in Memphis and ASU’s Bank Marketing School, Smith thought of following in her mother’s footsteps with a career as an educator, but she “just kind of fell into banking, and once my job description included marketing, I realized it was my passion.”

Banking was once a male-dominated industry, but that’s changed with the times, as have bank marketing strategies. “We have as many female officerlevel employees today at First Security as we have males,” Smith said. “As for marketing, statewide we have eight marketing directors, and seven of those are female.”

“Today, marketing is driven by strategy,” she said. “Knowing what the next generation will value — what will move them to purchase and how they will purchase — is an integral part of a marketing plan. Today’s generation would rather not visit the bank; they want banking at their fingertips on their mobile phone. You have to know how to market to each consumer group. Social media is a very effective way to advertise if it is done right. We launched a new website (onlyinark.com) this spring that features Arkansas topics of interest and Arkansas people. It has been extremely successful.”

Before coming to First Security, she was one of two LEND Award recipients from Arkansas for her involvement with a non-profit organization that revitalized communities.

Smith’s family includes her husband, Doug, children Chad and Heather, sonin-law Josh and four grandchildren.

First Security Bank Conway locations: 1390 Hwy 64 West 1001 Front Street

1110 East Oak Street 2925 Prince Street 2105 Dave Ward Drive 801 Hogan Road

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WINC: WOMEN IN BUSINESS 2014

CONNIE TIPTON OWNER / TIPTON EQUIPMENT

Tipton Equipment Business Information: Location: 828 N Creek Dr, Conway Phone Number: (501) 764-0300 www.tiptonequipment.com

22 WOMEN’S INC. / SEPTEMBER 2014

Connie Tipton has long had an appetite for working in the foodservice and sales industry, and owning Tipton Equipment & Commercial Kitchen Store in Conway has definitely put some spice in her life.

Connie is vice president of this broad-line foodservice equipment distributor and kitchen store located at 828 North Creek Drive in Conway. She has worked for 11 years with her husband, Tim, selling commercial equipment and supplies to restaurants, cafes, hospitals and schools. And their recently added kitchen store has cookware, cutlery, prep tools and utensils for both the professional and home chef.

“People work so hard that it’s very difficult to go home and prepare meals at the end of a day, every day. And there is no better treat than dining out with your family and enjoying a meal that someone else has prepared. I think as long as these are our conditions, there will always be a foodservice industry,” Connie says.

A graduate of Conway High School, Connie attended the University of Central Arkansas and has an extensive food sales background. “I had a wonderful career in food sales with consistent growth in my territory, I won awards and trips, but nothing compares to the success of Tipton Equipment & Commercial Kitchen Store,” she says.

As for her industry and the inclusion of women, Connie says the world is their oyster. “There are very few women in restaurant equipment sales. My advantage is that I work with my husband who has generously shared his 20-plus years of knowledge, but any motivated gal could do it. I find that women in sales are incredibly prepared, softer in their approach, they are very organized and ambitious. I would like to think those terms might apply to me as well.”

Being self employed has been a challenge but very rewarding. “Naivety certainly played a part in my being self-employed. I was unprepared for all it really entailed, but so thankful for the blessing of dreaming big. I love the foodservice industry, sales, customer service; I absolutely cannot imagine doing anything else.”

Connie has three children -- Jordan, 24, Chandler, 18, and Maddie, 11 -- plus a Goldendoodle, a Maltese, a foster beagle, and two rescue cats.

Raised in Conway, Connie returned home after living in Little Rock for several years to raise her youngest child here.

“We are very proud of the relationships and friendships we’ve made over the years. We love our new kitchen store, too. Our customers have absolutely wowed us with their support.”

The store is open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday. For more information, check out their website at www.tiptonequipment.com or www.facebook.com/tiptonequipment.

WINC: WOMEN IN BUSINESS 2014

SAMIE PEW OWNER / SIMPLY SWEET KIDS

Samie Pew is the owner of Simply Sweet Kids Children’s Clothing and Gift Boutique at 1907 Harkrider St. She said, “We offer brand name clothing, monogramming, custom appliqué and baby registry. We are also the only place in town to get baby bedding. The store opened on July 11, so we are brand new.”

Pew said she has dreamed of opening her own store for several years.

“After previously working in retail, I fell in love with it. My mom gave me her old sewing machine and I taught myself how to follow patterns for making children’s clothes. After making a few things here and there, I had people asking to purchase what I was making. That led to me getting an embroidery machine to take my creations to a new level. I was overwhelmed at the amount of orders that started coming in. I knew then, that it was time to start looking for a store of my own. My spare bedroom wasn’t quite big enough!

“I found a note on my dad’s desk one day that said ‘The impossible dream is the dream you never started.’That day, I knew it was time to start mine. When I started looking for a building, I told myself to be patient and the perfect location would open up. I finally found the building we are in now, and I knew it was the one.

“Being only 24 and owning a business has come as a shock to many. I couldn’t wait any longer to peruse a career that I knew I was good at and loved. I am so thankful for the support of my family and friends. Without them, this dream would not have come true.

I am so happy to be doing what I love, and can’t wait to see where this adventure takes me.”

DR. SHARON STONE VETERINARIAN / ST. FRANCIS VETERINARY CLINIC

Dr. Sharon Stone of the St Francis Veterinary Clinic has been serving the needs of dogs, cats and exotic pets for 19 years. Sharon has provided medical and surgical care for our pets, and she has made this her life’s work.

A graduate of the University of Central Arkansas and Louisiana State University, Sharon sees her profession as a wonderful one for all women.

“The future of veterinary medicine is wide open for women,” she said. “Our profession is a great one for women that want to work and have a family. There are many opportunities in research, the military and public health for women with a degree in vet med.”

Sharon has not just been a neighborhood doctor. She has also spent time in the Army taking care of military working dogs, horses, buffalo and mules.

“The military was a great experience for me because it helped me learn management skills that I would not have gotten otherwise, “she said.

Sharon is also a member of the American Association of Feline Practitioners, who strives to make the cat patients’ visits as stress free as possible.

Sharon and her husband, Steve, have three boys: Simon, Sidney and Seth. She met Steve at UCA 30 years ago — “in Dr. Jerry Manion’s Organic Chemistry class” — and they’ve been together ever since.

“We love Conway and after traveling in the military we decided this is where we wanted to raise our family,” she said. “We haven’t been sorry!”

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WINC: WOMEN IN BUSINESS 2014

CINDA MONTGOMERY OWNER / YOURS TRULY CONSIGNMENT

For 15 years Cinda Montgomery has owned and managed Yours Truly Consignments. It is the largest consignment shop in the South, tagging an average of 15,000 items of women’s and men’s clothing and selling them on to more than 20,000 consignors.

Montgomery’s family started the business from scratch, filling a gap in the local marketplace. For her, business is a process of continual change to keep up with the times. For example, UCA Honors College student Alexis Bibbs directs Yours Truly’s social media presence and new Young Adult department.

“Working at Yours Truly has been so much more than a first job,” Bibbs said, describing her job as “a creative outlet” for her.

Regardless of what technologies come, a friendly, organized shop is always one of Montgomery’s priorities, she said.

Montgomery hopes she’s inspired many young women like Bibbs over the years.

“It is wonderful to work for yourself,” she said. “I was never afraid of hard work, but I have had my share of challenges along the way. I want to do this one job well and have peace at night that I have been honest to all and worked hard to serve my consignors and customers.”

“I have always been blessed with just the right employees when I needed them,” she said. “God provides and is never late. We know this business is blessing for a lot of people, and we hope to continue serving our community for many years to come.” She is married to Greg Montgomery.

KELLI SMALL

EXECUTIVE BROKER / PAM MCDOWELL PROPERTIES

24 WOMEN’S INC. / SEPTEMBER 2014

Kelli Small joined Pam McDowell Properties in 1996, at a time when the company had five real estate agents and one secretary in a small four-bedroom house.

In her role as executive broker, Kelli manages 30 agents, recruits agents, conducts sales meetings, reviews contracts and assists buyers and sellers.

She attended the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and the University ofCentral Arkansas before going into real estate.

“I had not considered real estate until a friend asked me in 1994 to go to real estate school with her,” Kelli said. “She didn’t want to go alone… I am thankful she pointed me in this direction.”

Kelli and her husband, Stan, owned Copy Systems in the Walmart on Highway 65 in Conway. She also operated a bookkeeping and tax preparation office.

At a time when Conway and surrounding areas are growing economically and interms of population, Kelli sees potential in the city she has called homefor more than 20 years.

“Faulkner County is continuing to grow [and] I believe the market will just get stronger in the future,” she said.

Kelly and Stan, married for 32 years, moved from Pine Bluff to Conway in 1993. The couple has two daughters – Danielle Creswell with husband Ryan and son Kevin Carter, and Samantha Carter – who graduated from Conway High School and UCA. They also have two granddaughters: Emersyn Creswell and June Carter.

“Moving to Conway was the best decision we could have made,” Kelli said.

“We are very appreciative of the teachers and programs Conway had to offer.”

WINC: WOMEN IN BUSINESS 2014

PAM MCDOWELL PROPERTIES TAMI MCCONNELL Tami McConnell, a Conway resident for 27 years, has spent nearly 11 of those years as a Realtor at Pam McDowell Properties. “I was fortunate to be able to stay home with my children as they were growing

up,” Tami said. “During that time I actively volunteered for many charities, which was very rewarding.

When I had the opportunity to pursue real estate, I found it fulfilled my desire to help people.”

ANGELA CAUDLE DE FREITAS Angela Caudle de Freitas, a Realtor at Pam McDowell Properties since February 2013, utilizes YouTube to share real estate tips for home buyers. She follows in the footsteps of her mother, Zettie, who has worked

in real estate in Arkansas for 28 years.

“Both in Real Estate and in my previous executive career, I am most proud of having been able to support people in making key decisions in their lives,” Angela said.

EMILY WALTER Emily Walter, Realtor at Pam McDowell Properties, graduated from The University of Central Arkansas with a degree in Interior Design with a goal to one day design homes and become a real estate agent. She has 11 years of experience in sales, residential and commercial design,

remodeling, construction and project management. “The best reward for me is seeing the happiness on someone’s face once I’ve helped find them their dream home. I am so blessed to have a career that I love and be a part of such a successful company.” Emily said.

BECKY MCGINLEY Becky McGinley knew for the past six years that becoming a Realtor was in her sights though her focus remained on raising her three children. Early this year, Becky’s husband convinced her to join Pam McDowell Properties. “Since my first day,

every one of the agents has taken their time to help and be a mentor, including our Broker, who also does additional training weekly,” she said. “I am blessed to work for such a great company and be a part of helping my clients find their dream home.”

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WINC: WOMEN IN BUSINESS 2014

JONNA SHAW

Jonna Shaw is particularly proud of providing a place for people to call home as a Realtor at Pam McDowell Properties. “I always knew after my children were in school I would be a Realtor,” Jonna said. “I had worked

in high school at a real estate office from the time I was 14 until I was 19.”

She has been an agent at Pam McDowell Properties for 17 years and is currently the AR Chapter President of the Council of Residential Specialist.

STEFANIE SCHREKENHOFER Stefanie Schrekenhofer, licensed Realtor at Pam McDowell Properties, has been a Faulkner County resident for her entire life. She graduated from Conway High School,

the University of Central Arkansas and the National School of Real Estate. Stefanie has four children and two grandchildren, who also call the area home.

PAT EDWARDS

Pat Edwards has been in Conway since 1984, and although she had considered being an architect — she had previously owned a construction company — she has been selling homes for 30 years

and is currently a Realtor with Pam McDowell. “Real estate has been a great business for me,” she said. “It has been a wonderful experience, especially observing the growth of Conway.”

LORI STEPHENS Lori Stephens, a Certified Residential Specialist with Pam McDowell Properties, is celebrating her 10th year as a real estate agent. She and her family moved to Central Arkansas in 2009. “I am 26 WOMEN’S INC. / SEPTEMBER 2014

honored to have been awarded the Certified Residential Specialist designation, which places me in the ranks of 3% of Realtors in the nation that have attained this certification.,” she said.

WINC: WOMEN IN BUSINESS 2014

SHARON RIETZKE

Sharon Rietzke, licensed Realtor at Pam McDowell Properties, started her real estate career in 1990 and became a founding partner at Pam McDowell Properties in 1995.

“I’m a people person so it was easy for me to work with buyers and sellers,” Sharon said. “I love what I do and can’t imagine doing anything else.”

PAT BUCK

Pat Buck and her husband owned an electrical contracting company for more than 30 years before moving to Conway in 2007. She joined Pam McDowell Properties in May as a Real-

tor. “I have been a Realtor for about a year and a half now and I really enjoy helping people transition to another chapter of their lives,” Pat said. “It truly warms my heart.

WHITNEY LONG

Whitney Long, Realtor at Pam McDowell Properties, has been in real estate for eight years, helping the real estate transaction process go smoothly “in what can be the

most stressful time in [someone’s] life” is very rewarding to her. She loves helping her community grow and transition with all the real estate needs.

FREDA LAWLESS

Freda Lawless, Licensed Realtor at Pam McDowell Properties since March 2014. As co-owner of Momma’s Cleaning Service for 13 years, I am most proud of having been able to assist families in organizing their homes and help keeping them

maintained. “I had thought about becoming a Realtor and thought that it would be wonderful to also be able to assist families find their dream home,” she said. Freda has 3 daughters and 5 grand children which were all raised in Faulkner County.

POLLY MILLER

Polly Miller, a Realtor at Pam McDowell Properties for 14 years, has 30 years of real estate experience in Arkansas. “I’ve always loved helping people so it isn’t a surprise to

me, I still get excited when people are buying their first home, upgrading to a larger one or helping those sellers get their home sold,” Polly said.

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WINC: WOMEN IN BUSINESS 2014

A. SHARON MEADOR, M.D. OWNER/OPERATOR / CONWAY COSMEDIC / CONWAY OCCUMED

Conway Cosmedic Business Information: Location: 505 Dave Ward Dr, Conway Phone Number: (501) 932-0912 www.conwaycosmedic.com 28 WOMEN’S INC. / SEPTEMBER 2014

A. Sharon Meador, M.D. is owner and operator of two businesses — Meador Medical Clinic, which includes Conway CosMedic and Conway Occumed — both located in the same building.

Dr. Meador has practiced medicine in Conway since 2001 working for an urgent care company.

“When they decided to leave the state, I took over the practice and have enjoyed working in Conway ever since,” she said.

The OccuMed clinic offers a wide variety of services, which include general medicine and urgent care.

“We provide occupational services for hundreds of area employers and their employees,” Sharon said. “These services include drug screen testing, fitness for duty exams, D.O.T. physicals and treatment of injuries.”

Nearby, in a separate and discrete part of the building, sits Conway CosMedic, which provides non-surgical aesthetic treatments including microdermabrasion, laser and BroadBand Light Therapy treatments, Chemical Peels and facial rejuvenation treatments.

“I personally perform all aesthetic dermal injections,” Sharon said. “We also offer a medically supervised weight loss program, as well as bioidentical hormone replacement therapy.”

Sharon grew up in Jonesboro and attended college at Southwestern in Memphis, which is now known as Rhodes College. She attended medical school in Little Rock and did her residency in Charleston, S.C. What she remembers about her medical school days were the number of women involved in the educational field.

“My medical school class had the highest percentage of female students ever, at that time about 20 percent,” she said. “The number of women in medicine has drastically increased, but at the time, we were still outnumbered.”

Sharon is dealing with changes in her own business, bringing on more help with the increase in patients.

“Work days are never boring at my clinic,” she said. “I am pleased to be bringing in an advanced practice nurse, Cammie Price, to work with me.

She will be coming to work here in September.”

In addition to her work, Sharon enjoys cooking, gardening, reading, traveling, scuba diving, local theatre, arts and animal welfare. She has also ventured outside of the state many times.

“I have traveled to most areas of our country, and numerous other countries, but I prefer living in Arkansas,” she said.

Sharon’s husband of 29 years, Stephen Giles, is an attorney. The couple has twin children, Anna and Richmond Giles. Anna is in dental school in Memphis and Richmond is in his final year of law school at the Bowen School in Little Rock.

“Stephen and I loved spending time with our children when they were growing up,” she said.

“We were coaches, scout leaders and chauffeurs. We are proud of our children and enjoy spending time with them as friends now that they are adults.”

WINC: WOMEN IN BUSINESS 2014

ABBY KING OWNER / HIPSWAY

Abby King is the owner of HipSway clothing boutique, located at 920 Locust St. in downtown Conway.

The store has been open for eight years and sells women’s clothing, shoes, jewelry and other accessories.

King said, “The shopping experience we provide includes excellent customer service.”

She has a bachelor’s degree in education but has been in retail for 11 years.

“I love retail, clothing and customer service, so it is only fitting that I own a clothing boutique,” she said. “However, I truly do have a passion for children and teaching others.”

King’s father was actually the one who started HipSway.

“I have to say when he mentioned he was going to open a clothing boutique I was pleasantly surprised,” she said. “When I graduated from college in 2007, I joined forces with my father and mother and became manager and part owner of HipSway.

With my experience and love for retail, it was the perfect fit for me.”

She continued, “HipSway has a bright future ahead. We’ve recently announced that we are expanding, and we are doing a total remodel. We have so many fun and unexpected things that we have in store for our customers with the remodel. We have big plans to continue to grow our storefront and our website, www.shopHipSway.com.

We also may grow our store into other cities.”

Further, she said, “I am very proud to say that I wake up every day and look forward to going to work. I love my job (although it feels more like a hobby). I love my HipSway family (my employees) and my customers.

I am also very proud that we have made it to where we are today. This is our third expansion, and we keep on growing. You have to change with the times, and that is what we are doing.”

King and her husband, Stuart, who works behind the scenes at HipSway, have two children, Khyler and KateLeigh. King has lived in Conway since 1994.

HipSway Business Information: Location: 920 Locust St #104, Conway Phone Number: (501) 548-3545 www.shophipsway.com

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WINC: WOMEN IN BUSINESS 2014

ROBIN DAYER OWNER / BURN STUDIO

Burn Studio Business Information: Location: 824 Salem Rd Ste 101, Conway Phone Number: (501) 733-2386 www.burnstudioconway.com

30 WOMEN’S INC. / SEPTEMBER 2014

Through her commitment to fitness, Robin Dayer not only found a way to stay healthy, she found her calling in life – helping others to feel good both inside and out!

Robin is owner of Burn Studio in Conway, where group classes and personal training have been reinvented through an energizing atmosphere, high energy music, encouraging trainers and a feeling of family.

Burn Studio is Conway’s first studio offering classes and training through online reservations.

“There are no memberships required, you can pay by the class/classes online! It’s so easy!,” says Robin.

Since opening in September 2013, Burn Studio has brought new fitness ideas to Conway, such as Indoor Cycling Classes on topof-the-line Schwinn Bikes with Console Technology. “You won’t find these bikes anywhere else in Conway,” she said. Also offered are classes in BarreAmped, Yoga, BootCamps, Strength and Conditioning, ShockWave Rowing and BOSU.

A graduate of St. Joseph High School, Robin studied at Belmont University in Nashville and earned a bachelor of business in marketing at the University of Central Arkansas. After working in pharmaceutical sales, Robin “realized this wasn’t what I was meant to be doing. I felt God had a bigger plan for me.”

With more time on her hands, Robin started attending classes at Conway Regional Health and Fitness Center. “I found my calling in life — group fitness/ personal training.” Robin worked at CRHFC for 12 years before opening Burn Studio.

Robin is serious about her craft, and continues to learn all she can. “I recently was given the honor to work for Schwinn Indoor Cycling as Master Trainer. I now get to travel the country and teach other instructors how to teach!” Robin has also received the ACE Personal Training Certification and the Cooper Institute Advanced Personal Trainer Certification.

“Every year that passes I am so thankful and blessed to be able to wake up every single day and do what I LOVE! Changing people’s lives through fitness and wellness, sharing my love and passion for fitness — I was born to do this. Burn Studio is my heart and labor of love!,” Robin said.

A special part of Robin’s mission is to encourage other women to go for their dreams. “I feel as a woman, and a working mother, I can be an example for other women and working mothers that you can have it all. I can own my studio and teach, travel around the country as a master trainer, and still be a GOOD mom/wife. The most important person I want to exemplify this for is my own daughter. Put your stamp on this earth and go get ’em!”

In addition to her Burn Studio family, Robin has a supportive family that includes husband, James Dayer; daughter Georgia, sons Drew and Thomas, and her parents, Chris and Allison Eldridge.

WINC: WOMEN IN BUSINESS 2014

DIEDRA MALTBIA, CANDY HEIDENREICH, KARINA PIERCE & DANEEN FIDDLER STAFF / ELAN

Elan Business Information: Location: 2159 Prince St., Conway Phone Number: (501) 513-0086 www.elanspa.net

The ladies at Elan in Conway know just how to help you evaporate the stress in your life through the pampering properties of massage therapy and spa treatments.

Deidra Maltbia, Daneen Fiddler, Karina Pierce and Candy Heidenreich have brought their own love for helping others to Elan, strengthening their motto of “where healing and beauty begin.”

At Elan, all the ladies are independent contractors who run their own business out of this cozy cottage at 2159 Prince St. Deidra has been at Elan for 3 years, Daneen for 8 year, Karina for 15 years, and Candy for 6 years.

“We here at Elan are most proud of being able to help our clients feel and look better than they did when they entered our spa. We all love being a part of Elan and its warm, cozy and home-like atmosphere. We don’t feel like we’re at work -- we feel like we’re all visiting our grandmother’s house.”

Keeping clients happy is the goal at Elan, and in return the women have built wonderful relationships with their guests. “We have several generational clients -- grandmothers, mothers, daughters and even granddaughters.”

The four women have different reasons for choosing their career.

Deidra says she “felt it was a calling from God to be a massage therapist. I am his Servant, he did the Inspiring.”

Daneen said she knew early on “from the time I was a little girl that I would be helping women look and feel their best.”

Karina had inspiration from a coworker – “I was inspired by Wendy Serio, the original owner and founder of Elan Natural Works, to do nails. She was my mentor and friend who always encouraged me.”

Candy saw freedom in the schedule – “I was inspired to do what I do for I am my own boss, and the flexible hours have been great, for I am a single mom.”

The future for Elan and the spa industry in general looks bright, especially for those businesses that keep the personal relationship factor alive. “As we enter a whole new way of spas today (in strip malls, plastic surgeons office, and in-and-out, no appointment necessary kind of places), we at Elan take pride and passion in customer service, and will do our best to keep the tradition of pampering women a relaxing experience.”

For more information about Elan, visit the website at www.elanspa.net or visit their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/ deidra.elan. They can be reached by phone at (501) 513-0086.

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WINC: WOMEN IN BUSINESS 2014

ALLISON WILLIAMSON OWNER / JAZZERCISE

ADENA WHITE

DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS / CONWAY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

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Alison Williams is the owner of Conway Jazzercise Fitness Center, located at 2225 Prince St. Jazzercise is a high-intensity, dance-based fitness program featuring cardio, kickboxing, power yoga, strength training and chart-topping music.

“I have been a certified Jazzercise instructor for over five years and took over ownership in January of this year,”Williams said. “My degree is in early childhood education, and I taught school for five years. Then I decided to stay home when my first child was born.

So this is my second career, but my true passion. I went through the Jazzercise Inc. workshop training program to receive my instructor certification. I have always loved health and fitness, and I knew from my first Jazzercise class that I wanted it to be my job.”

She added she never expected to become the owner, but due to her lifelong love of exercise and nutrition, she feels she is doing what she is supposed to be doing.

Williams noted, “I think that through Jazzercise I am able to provide a non-competitive workout program that reaches a wide range of fitness levels, and for women that is so important, because gyms can be very intimidating.”

As for the future of her business, she said, “I want to see Conway Jazzercise continue to grow. Jazzercise as a company is a cutting edge fitness program that has had over 40 years of longevity. It is not the workout of the 80s, and I would love to see more women come try us out and see the difference.”

She added, “I’m just proud that I get to do what I love everyday. I love the women I meet and I love to see them achieve their fitness and health goals.”

Williams is originally from Texas, and her husband Dave is from Arkansas. The couple moved to Conway when they married. They have lived here 11 years.

Adena J. White serves as director of communications for the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce. She has been with the chamber since April 2011.

The Chamber of Commerce acts as the voice of the business community. It promotes economic development, supports Conway’s educational institutions, provides advocacy at all levels of government on behalf of its 1,300 member businesses and establishes and executes a vision for the community.

White earned a bachelor’s degree in speech communication and journalism with a public relations emphasis from Arkansas Tech University in 2007. In 2009 she completed a master’s degree in applied communication studies from UALR. Her first job was public relations coordinator for the Winthrop Rockefeller Institute on Petit Jean Mountain. Last year she became accredited in public relations (APR) from the Public Relations Society of America.

White said, “I honestly wasn’t aware of the role of a chamber of commerce, so I never considered working for one until I saw the job description for my current position, which was a perfect fit for me. Upon learning more about the industry, I am proud to work for an organization with a clear focus of making Conway an even better place to live.”

She continued, “I see the chamber continuing to play a major role in making Conway a nationally recognized, economically diverse city. There are several exciting projects underway, and I’m happy to be part of it all.”

Asked about the future of women in business, she said, “The next generation of women in business will continue to make advances in male-dominated industries and positions, making the ‘women in business’ distinction a thing of the past.”

White grew up in Center Ridge, a daughter of William and Magdalene Strickland. She has two sisters, Megan and Katrina, both central Arkansas residents.

White and her husband, Matthew, live in Conway with their dog, Shelby.

“We chose Conway because it was centrally located between our families and wasn’t too big or too small,” she said.

WINC: WOMEN IN BUSINESS 2014

JESSICA ZIMMERMAN OWNER/CREATIVE DIRECTOR / A SOUTHERN TRADITION

Jessica Zimmerman is the owner and creative director of A Southern Tradition.

Along with her team, Jessica produces exquisite, one-of-a-kind events. She recently studied under her “floral icon” and has since been creating natural and innovative creations that have people rethinking floral design.

She is driven by the creative process, down to every last detail, making dreams into reality.

“We will help you select other vendors, execute your floral and décor, and overall use all your ideas to produce your dream wedding,” she said. “Brides come to us because of our style, but they refer us because of their experience.”

Arkansas Business placed Jessica on its 20 in Their 20s list in 2011 and Little Rock Soiree named her one of the publication’s Women to Watch in 2012.

Jessica graduated from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville with a bachelor’s degree in communication.

“I remember vividly when I decided I would change my major to communication, looking at a list of careers one could do with that degree and ‘event design’ was on the list,” she said. “I remember thinking, ‘I would really enjoy that.’”

Jessica credits her knowledge in small business to mentoring from Jeanne Smyers and her late husband, Mike, of The Kitchen Store.

“It was one of the best experiences I could have had and without it, I would not be able to run this business I have today,” Jessica said.

Jessica also credits Gail Strack, the former owner of A Southern Tradition, who sold her the business. “Gail taught me that work could be fun,” she said.

Next year, Jessica has plans to unveil “really exciting” changes to A Southern Tradition. She maintains a blog at A Southern Tradition.com, where she writes about her professional and personal life.

Jessica and her husband, Brian, have one daughter, Stella.

A Southern Tradition Business Information: Location: 925 Oak St, Conway Phone Number: (501) 336-0326 www.asoutherntradition.com

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WINC: WOMEN IN BUSINESS 2014

MELANIE SMITH, M.D.

OPHTHALMOLOGIST/CATARACT SURGEON / MAGIE-MABREY EYE CLINIC

Dr. Melanie F. Smith, a comprehensive ophthalmologist and cataract surgeon, has been with the Magie-Mabrey Eye Clinic since moving to Conway in 2003.

The clinic is a full-service ocular health facility providing medical treatment and surgery of the eye. The clinic also features glasses and contact lens fitting as well as treatment for cataracts, glaucoma, dry eye and macular degeneration.

Melanie received her education in Tennessee, completing her residency in Memphis. Not only did she excel in her classes in medical school, but she was also elected as class president all four of those years and received the Distinguished Student Award upon graduation.

“I was always interested in science and had decided to pursue medicine in high school,” Melanie said. “I would never have dreamed that I would become an ophthalmologist, but as a student rotating through the different fields of medicine, I was quickly drawn to it.”

Melanie believes that ophthalmology offers a great combination of medicine and surgery. “The most rewarding part of performing cataract surgery is the ability to make a profound impact in the way a patient sees, which can make a tremendous improvement in their daily lives,” she said.

Her husband, Scott, is an orthopaedic surgeon, practicing with Conway Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine. The couple has two daughters: Avery and Ainsley. Melanie and Scott met during their residency training, and they made it a point to find a home that was close to both of their families.

Melanie is honored to serve on the Conway Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. “We are so proud to call Conway home, as it is a wonderful place to work, live and raise a family.”

KAROLYN ZIEMER

VICE PRESIDENT/MORTGAGE LOAN OFFICER / ARVEST BANK Karolyn moved from North Arkansas in 1996 to attend the University of Central Arkansas in Conway where she was a member of Gamma Beta Phi. She holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance and Business Management. Karolyn began her retail banking career in 1997 with First National Bank of Conway, and joined the Arvest Mortgage Lending Team in 2004.

Community involvement has been a life-long commitment to Karolyn. She is currently the president of the Lutheran Business Women’s Club, an active member of the Board of Evangelism and a member of the Archives Committee at First Lutheran Church in Little Rock. She is a lifetime a member of the UCA Alumni Association and is also active in the Conway Noon Rotary Club. In 2012 she was named a Paul Harris Fellow by the Rotary Foundation of Rotary International.

Karolyn was voted 2006 Teammate of the Year by the Little Rock Mortgage Operations Center. To date she has closed over 1,200 home loans totaling over $160 million in production. “Nothing is more rewarding than assisting people with making home ownership a reality”. Karolyn is proud to be a part of the outstanding team at Arvest Bank in Conway.

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WINC: WOMEN IN BUSINESS 2014

JULIANNA MILNER AND KRISTIN WARNER MANAGERS / THE KITCHEN STORE

The Kitchen Store Business Information: Location: 704 Locust St, Conway Phone Number: (501) 327-2182

For The Kitchen Store & More managers Julianne Milner and Kristin Warner, running a family business is in their DNA. Milner worked for her parents’ clothing department store in her hometown of Crossett, Ark. Warner grew up working in Cantrell Printing, her family’s business in downtown Conway, before following her passion for horticulture in jobs at The Plant Outlet and Garvan Gardens in Hot Springs.

Since 2010, both women have worked alongside Kitchen Store owner Jeanne Smyers and her daughter Tricia O’Connor. Milner and Warner had each worked at the store previously, overlapping in 2007. When the late owner Mike Smyers was diagnosed with leukemia, they both volunteered to help and have been with the family ever since.

“It takes a special person to understand and appreciate what a unique environment a family business is,” said Smyers. “And we have two very special people.”

The dynamic duo divide their time across the business. Milner manages the store’s staff, sharing her years of sales and customer service experience with employees, while Warner works behind the scenes, overseeing shipping and receiving, the giftwrap department and store warehouse, and assisting with bookkeeping.

“Not only are they both great at what they do, they’re great in different ways,” Smyers said.

“Julianne has worked in sales all of her life, and she’s just a natural. She makes customers feel like she’s inviting them into her own home. And she knows how important it is to make customers feel that way because she worked in a family business,” said Smyers. “She also has a great eye for design. Every year, our customers can’t wait to see her Christmas displays.”

“Kristin’s attention to detail is essential, from overseeing every item that comes in the store to tracking our merchandise and supply inventory,” Smyers said. “We can’t sell it if we don’t have it in stock and customers can’t find it if it’s in the stock room or warehouse and not on the sales floor. Kristin makes sure we have it and have it right.”

Milner lives in Conway with her husband, Mike, who works for First Security Bank, and enjoys entertaining and cooking for her family and friends.

Warner lives in Greenbrier with her husband, Justin, who teaches math at Conway High School. When she’s not at work, you can find her in her garden.

www.conwaykitchen.com

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WINC: WOMEN IN BUSINESS 2014

STACY VONDRAN OWNER / TICKLED PINK

Stacy Vondran is the owner of Tickled Pink, located at 1110 Oak St. in downtown Conway.

Tickled Pink is a women’s clothing boutique that specializes in finding the right fit for every body type.

Stacy said, “We work to maintain exceptional quality at great prices.”

Boutique ownership is a second career for Stacy, who graduated nursing school in 1997 and has been an RN for 16 years. Also, she noted, for the past several years she has worked part time while staying home with her son, Andrew, who just started kindergarten.

“This is a surprise even to me,” she said of her second career. “It is something I have always wanted to do, but never thought I would.”

Stacy and her husband, David, live in Conway. She has lived here since 1994 when she moved here to attend college.

“My family and I have enjoyed living in Conway and watching it grow,” she said.

ZANETTE BELL CO-OWNER / BELL & SWARD

Zanette Bell is co-owner of Bell & Sward Gentlemen’s Clothier along with son-in-law, Erik Sward. Their full-service men’s clothing store carries everything from gentleman’s suits to sportswear, shoes and accessories.

On top of that, the shop does alterations and offers wardrobe planning and selection.

“We opened our doors in March of this year after many months of planning, remodeling, trips to numerous apparel markets, and visits to other men’s stores across the country,” she said.

Bell graduated from UCA with a physical therapy degree.

Clothing is a new venture for her, but she loves a challenge and has always been interested in the retail world.

“Downtown Conway is booming and even though we knew our business was needed — we are the only exclusive men’s store in town — we had no idea that it would take off as rapidly as it has,” she said. “The reception from the community and surrounding areas has been truly amazing and has far exceeded even our lofty expectations! We feel very blessed and are looking forward to many years of interacting with our customers and providing for their clothing needs.”

Bell’s family includes her husband, Keith, who is a radiologist at Conway Regional; children Matthew, Tyler and Lindsey Bell Sward; and grandchildren Zane Bell, Hollin Bell and Samuel Sward.

“We love Conway and the people who live here,” she said. “It has been a great place to raise our family and we look forward to giving back to the community and growing with downtown Conway.”

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WINC: WOMEN IN BUSINESS 2014

CAROLINE RODGERS OWNER / MONROW BOUTIQUE

Monrow Boutique Business Information:

Born to be a fashionista, Caroline Rodgers is living out her calling at her own boutique in Conway.

Fashion-forward clothing designs and fun accessories are available for women of all ages and lifestyles at Monrow Boutique, located in the Hendrix Village off Harkrider Street. The boutique has been open for about two years and is located at 1700 Altus Road, Suite 100.

Everything from tops to bottoms to purses and jewelry can be found in this exclusive locally minded boutique. Affordable price points are also a mainstay at Monrow Boutique.

“Monrow Boutique provides a one-stop shop for fashionistas of any age,” Caroline says. “We strive to create a fun and friendly atmosphere where you can find all of the latest trends and styles, locally.”

Caroline, who is married to Cheney Rodgers, is a Conway girl through and through.

“I am born and raised in Conway, and love it so very much,” she says. Caroline is a graduate of Conway High School and later studied business communications at Baylor University. She says that her studies, along with retail experience, taught her a lot about the fashion industry.

“Monrow is booming, I am so blessed to be able to say that! I am on the road to taking Monrow bigger and better than ever.

You have to grow along with your business, or it will never thrive,” she said.

The future looks bright for Monrow Boutique through Caroline’s enthusiastic leadership and fresh perspective on business.

Caroline strives to make sure everyone who visits the boutique leaves looking fabulous.

“I’m young, so I’ve learned so much in these first few years, those lessons are seriously priceless!” she said.

Monrow Boutique can be found on Facebook at www.facebook.com/pages/Monrow-Boutique, reached by phone at 501-2054735, and on email at shopmonrow@gmail. com. Plans are in the works for a boutique web site. You can also find Monrow Boutique on Instagram. The boutique is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday.

Specials, sidewalk sales and new arrivals are posted on Facebook to help Monrow Boutique customers stay on top of today’s fashion trends.

“This was something I was born to do, without a doubt!,” Caroline said of her life as boutique-owning fashionista.

Location: 675 Elsinger Blvd., Conway Phone Number: (501) 336-8912

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What’s Your Favorite?

FAVORITES FROM THE KITCHEN STORE AND MORE

“I am privileged to work with a fantastic group of women. With so many fabulous new items coming in for fall it was hard for them to pick favorites. Julianne chose Moscow Mule mugs not just because they are gorgeous copper mugs but because they keep all beverages chilled. Amber fell in love with this new hand bag for its size and style. Pam loves the versatility of lanterns for decorating at any season. We are thrilled to welcome Abbie back to our team and she is looking forward to Pumpkin Pie her favorite fall coffee. What’s your favorite for fall?”— Jeanne Smyers, owner of The Kitchen Store & More Staff Favorite Amber Wilcox

Staff Favorite Julianne Milner Staff Favorite Abbie Keller

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Staff Favorite Pam Dye

STYLE

DESIGNS FOR EVERY HOME

ALL AVAILABLE AT STATEMENTS

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Lauren Fulmer’s more grown-up and updated bedroom in her West Conway home.

Stacy Fulmer, Lauren’s mother, refinished the furniture pieces in the bedroom with chalk paint and wax.

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FULMER HOME

ALL GROWN UP

By Jennifer Stanley Photos by Brandy Strain Though Lauren Fulmer of Conway is 15 years old, her bedroom exudes a mid-century elegance. She and her mother, Stacy desired an update that would provide a more mature, soothing place for Lauren to spend her time.

For the first 11 years in the family’s Sunderlin Park home, Lauren’s décor was in shades of lime green, black, and white. In keeping with the neutral palette of the remainder of the home, Stacy began transforming the room by painting Lauren’s armoire, dresser, and bedside tables. “I used a base coat then did two coats of chalk paint and wax,” says Stacy of the formerly black furniture.

The repainted pieces and the two white lamps on the bedside tables are among the only remnants of the former room. For the remaining updates, Stacy enlisted the assistance of designer Reggie Marshall of Marshall Clements. “Reggie brought in the draperies, mirror, and seating. The seating has been great because there was nowhere for her friends to sit when they come over, which is often,” laughs Stacy.

“I am obsessed with it. I don’t really like sleeping in there because I don’t want to mess it up!”

Reggie began the process of lightening the room with neutral, calming colors. The walls, carpeting, and bedding are in shades of taupe and white, as is the seating, including a settee near the window. Reggie repurposed the headboard and added antique shutters to either side of the bed. He also added a faux curtain behind the headboard in a lighter shade, which provided contrast between the slightly darker headboard and wall.

Of Lauren’s room redo, Reggie adds, “Basically, Stacy wanted Lauren to have a more grown-up, freshened up room. She needed a change. They gave me a color palette and wanted it to match the remainder of the house.

I had some nineteenth century shutters I’d bought in Provence, France, and I added those to give the room a more adult look.” Regarding the ornate rod holding the curtains over the bed, he says, “It is a gilded, carved wood panel, and we added the drapes. The neutral bedding is a mix of several companies. The chandelier is a new piece that looks vintage; it is perfect for a teenager.” Also among Reggie’s goals was to budget wisely. “I might go big on a statement piece but scale back on other pieces.”

Lauren is certainly a fan of her new bedroom, saying, “I wanted it to be more grown up. The rest of the house was neutral, and my room stood out; I wanted it to blend more.” Among her favorite features are the remote control candles and the chandelier. “I am obsessed with it. I don’t really like sleeping in there because I don’t want to mess it up!” she enthuses.

Stacy and Lauren could not be happier with the updated look, which is simultaneously youthful yet elegant. As Stacy says, “I credit Reggie for this. He had the vision. He added a lot of touches that are updated yet ageappropriate. He knew our style, and he made it happen.”

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A chandelier with a vintage look is a focal point in the bedroom.

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One of Lauren’s favorite features in the room are the remote control candles.

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ACCENTS

Happy Birthday Baby!

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B 1 2 3

By Jessica Zimmerman Photos by Brandy Strain

aby’s first birthday is an once-in-a-lifetime affair, and as parents, we all want to make it a memorable one. I plan and design events for a living, but this one is by far the most special one yet! Here are my tips for throwing a fabulous birthday party: To Theme or Not to Theme For my daughter Stella’s first birthday party, I knew I didn’t necessarily want a theme (because I’m sure I’ll be doing princess parties soon enough) so I decided to make it girly, pretty and enhance it with lots of flowers.

Invitations = Color Scheme Anytime I plan a party, I always begin with the invitation. It sets the tone for the event. I chose a pretty invitation that had hues of peach, mint green and gold. Voila! Those became the colors for the party. Pretty simple, huh?

Food As I say just about every month, no one has more fun if you stay up all night making the food. In order to not worry one bit about

the food, I hired Patti Stobaugh, the owner of local bakery PattiCakes, to take care of that. She carried out every specific detail perfectly, and even came the morning of the party to set up all the food. Talk about stress-free!

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Décor Being a floral designer, I’m naturally going to choose flowers as a main element. To make the entrance extra special, I opened our gates and created greenery swag garland enhanced with floral, keeping with the color scheme of peach and green, along with a simple fresh floral wreath on the door.

Focal Wall It’s important for a first birthday to have a focal wall. Stella’s was on the wall that is in view as soon as you enter our home.

Another fresh greenery swag hung there—layered with a happy birthday banner—positioned over the table with all the food. I used a fun, girly linen on the table in a champagne color, which complimented the color scheme.

Linen and Fresh Floral available at A Southern Tradition Cake and treats available at PattiCakes Bakery

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FOOD

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Mediterranean stuffed chicken, lemon almond rice, and roasted Brussels sprouts Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken

Lemon Almond Rice

4 skinless, boneless chicken breastHalves-pounded thin 4 ounces cream cheese, softened 1/3 cup feta cheese 1 teaspoon garlic powder 2 teaspoons dried dill weed 2 tablespoons melted butter Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups water 2 rounded teaspoons instant chicken bouillon cubes 1 small onion, chopped 1 stick butter 2 tablespoons slivered almonds 4 tablespoons lemon juice 1 cup long grain rice

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. To make filling, in a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the feta cheese, dill weed and garlic powder. Beat until smooth and creamy. Put dollop of Âź of the filling on each breast, roll and tie with cooking string if desired. Bruch each breast with melted butter and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the juices run clear.

Bring first six ingredients to a boil; add rice, stir once, cover and cook for 20 minutes on medium heat. Do not lift lid or stir.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts 2 pounds fresh Brussels Sprouts 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 teaspoon Greek seasoning Wash Brussels sprouts; toss in olive oil and Greek seasoning. Place on cookie sheet and bake at 400 degrees for 20 to 30 minutes.

Chef Jill McCollum, CC is the Caterer and Food Service Director for Central Baptist College. Jill is the owner of Jill McCollum Catering in Conway. She can be reached at jmccollum@cbc.edu or (501) 730-4422

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Cooking TIPS

for busy moms

A

By Chef Jill McCollum, CC Photos by Lindsey Faith Watson

fter a long day at work, the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the hot kitchen. Instead of resorting to picking up fast food or ordering pizza, with just a little preparation you can prepare healthy homemade meals for your family even when you are short on time and energy.

You must buy a crockpot! A crockpot is a busy mom’s dream. With a crockpot, you can put the meat in the cooker in the morning, set it on low, and come home to a delicious meal. Another fabulous thing about the crockpot is that it tenderizes food through its slow cook process, therefore, you can actually buy more affordable cuts of meat and they will turn out juicy and tender in the crockpot.

Freeze meals ahead of time. On the weekend, cook a large quantity of lasagna or your family’s favorite casserole.

Then separate it in smaller portions and freeze it for meals throughout the week. This also works great for sauces.

Make a big batch of marinara sauce and freeze it in several plastic containers or freezer bags.

Use a wok for a quick meal. Stir-fry is a simple, nutritious way to cook. Chop skinless, boneless chicken breasts into chunks or strip. Use the wok to sir-fry the chicken with mixed frozen vegetables and soy sauce. Pour over instant rice (5-10 minutes), and you will have a fabulous, easy meal in no time.

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MOMMY BLOG

3

Guilt Be Gone

By Brooke Allen

:00 in the afternoon - that was always the hardest. My boys were 6 months & 3 years. We had moved to a new town, no family, few friends. By 7:30 every morning my hubby left the house headed to Clinton or Marshall, AR for work.

I stayed home in Conway with those precious babies...all day...by myself. 3:00 was the reckoning hour for me, when we were in the thick of it. My energy was usually depleted by that time of day & the clock was ticking in warp speed toward 5:30 when the hubs would be home. Of course I would’ve gotten “nothing” accomplished. Or so I thought. Looking back now I see that what happened at 3:00 was guilt. That was the time that I looked up from playing with my toddler, nursing the baby, cooking them meals and snacks, & panicked! It was almost time for the hubby to get home & what would he think of this mess? He would probably see all the failures that I saw. I was literally wearing guilt goggles- I only saw the tremendous mess of toy cars, dinosaurs, & dirty high chairs. I would run like a crazy eyed mad woman dodging the minefield of pacifiers and Thomas the Train tracks in a fast dash to pick it all up & make it at least appear that I’d done something worthwhile.

I now look back on those days and see joy instead of the failures, I see my 3 year old sons eyes lighting up as he discovered a new dinosaur sound, or the sweet smile of my baby boy as I rocked him just because I wanted to. Those single moments of joy & peace got lost in that moment of time for me. While I was there in the trenches with dirty diapers & crying fits all I could see was what I wasn’t getting done. The list of things to do around the house, the shower door that had become cloudy from soap covered tiny hands, the pile of laundry in the corner of my bedroom, the brightly colored plastic dishes piled in the sink, I only saw those things as strikes against my “mommy hood”.

Now I look at them as my gold stars- given to me by God himself. Guilt - that ridiculous, fabricated guilt- blinded me. I couldn’t see the blessings because I was looking for

the things that I thought would make me a good mommy. Instead of looking at those dirty dishes as guilt, I now see them as 10 minutes that I chose to play with my sweet boys.

As my grandmother would say “the years just go by so fast”. And she’s right. As much as it annoyed me to hear that when I was in the guilt trap of babies & toddlers, she’s right. In those moments of struggle, we wish for the next phase, we wish for them to walk, & talk, to be able to obey & be independent. That’s normal. For me, each year has brought new joy & excitement, more confidence of myself as a mother- so it has gotten easier. I pray I never forget to not only see the good times, but to see those moments of filthy dishes & unkept house. There’s joy there too. There’s belly laughs, and scrunched up baby noses among the mess of scattered toys & screeching toddlers. No matter where your guilt lies, if it’s guilt over not working enough, working too much, not cooking, not cleaning well enough, not spending as much quality time as you’d like, raising kiddos alone- stop & look around. There’s joy there. Right where you are now- even in the battlefield, where you feel there’s no way out. When you feel like there is only failure at every corner, look beyond the guilt - there’s a big belly laugh in there somewhere! Choose to see joy in the chaos of mommydom.

Brooke Allen lives in Conway with her husband, Josh, and two sons, Bryce and Brennon. Brooke is a stylist at Studio Skin and a blogger.

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Boys and girls club shop and sip at fletcher smith’s

Kyle Ratliff, Fletcher Smith, Eric King, and Adam Waldron

Cindy Hudson, Sherry Smith, and Renee James

Anne Mann and Jeannie Ratliff

David Clark, Spencer Gordy, and Carter Rook

Jackie Bennett, Jen Ryken, and Katherine Thomason

Michelle Odom, Brian Odom, and Jeannie Ratliff

Boys and girls club auction

Scotty Campbell, Donna Townsell, and Jennifer Campbell 50 WOMEN’S INC. / SEPTEMBER 2014

boys and girls club auction

Clint and Angie Brock

Troy Braswell, Annie Mann, and Carter Rook

Melissa John, Natalie Hall, and Nancy Murphy

Chuck Clawson and Blake Cook

Gary Hogan, Melissa John, Lee Ann Dietz, Lisa Winbourne, Katherine Thomason, and Teresa Thompson

Charlie and Charlotte Nabholz

Mitch Collins and Stacy Prout

Melia Arnold and Caroline Morgan

Cindy Hudson, Anndra Ellison. and Shea Bryant

Paul and Leslie Kostecky

Rachel and Bart Shaw

Sam Glover, Reggie Rose, and John Mark Guerin

Jennifer Seifert, Mary Goodwin, Linda Kroger, and Wendy Harrison

Randy and Michelle Hull WWW.WOMENSINC.NET 51

52 WOMEN’S INC. / SEPTEMBER 2014

Introducing: Cherry Blooms Fiber Lash Extensions at Studio Skin As a licensed aesthetician I am constantly looking and trying new products. I recently found an amazing new mascara that literally acts like lash extensions! I will never use regular mascara again.

I wanted long luscious lashes without spending an hour or more a week in the salon getting glue on extensions. And this product delivers. Read on to learn more.

Brush on Lash “extensions” is an exciting new concept in eyelash products that do not require any glue or false lashes. The eyelash extensions are lightweight, comfortable to wear and can easily be applied in 60 seconds. There’s no glue, no mess, no fuss, and no irritation. There are only 2 products and 3 simple steps.

The Cherry Bloom product is the only one with a 30 Day Money Back Guarantee and the BLACK fibers will stay put all day and not fall into your eyes like similar brands with a cheaper price tag. This revolutionary fiber lash extension product was recently rated by customers as the best one they have tried because of its ability to thicken and extend your natural lashes up to 300% guaranteed.

Each eyelash extension kit has a shelf life of three years, and lasts for four months with continuous daily use, meaning no more expensive salon visits and time wasted attending appointments; not to mention the damaging effects harsh salon glue has on your eyelashes causing them to fall out.

What is it? Cherry Blooms Fiber Lash Extensions are lightweight and just as easy as applying normal mascara. It’s water resistant so it is cry proof, laugh proof and sweat proof too.

How Does it Work? The Cherry Blooms Fiber Lash Extensions kit includes the transplanting mascara gel and natural black fibers. The transplanting gel is made from high grade beeswax which stimulates lash growth, helping to thicken and lengthen natural lashes. This key beeswax ingredient is antibacterial and has moisturizing properties, ensuring it won’t leave you with dry brittle lashes. Unlike other fibre lash brands, Cherry Blooms Brush on Fiber Lashes uses BLACK fibers, made from non-toxic ingredients making it suitable for those with sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers. It’s easy to remove with warm water and a cotton ball.

Why Cherry Blooms is Rated the Best? Cherry Blooms formula contains natural high grade beeswax and BLACK fibers which deliver dramatically thicker and longer lashes. This product does not smudge or run and it stays put all day long.

The fibers do not fall on your face unlike other brands; and it looks freshly applied even at the end of a long day. They look natural when you apply and does not clump or smudge. Cherry Blooms is an Australian brand and the easy-to-use product comes in an elegant box with clear and easy

Angela Jackson, owner of studio SKIN has been a licensed aesthetician for 15 years. Angela is a member of Associated Skincare Professionals, an organization dedicated to the promotion of safe, quality skin care and currently sits on the Arkansas Department of Health Advisory Committee. She also works at Northwest Arkansas Center for Plastic Surgery in Fayetteville, under the direction of Dr. Heath Stacey, a board certified plastic surgeon. Angela has been offering skincare in the downtown Conway area for the past six years. She offers expertise and certifications in corrective skincare, facials, chemical peels, microdermabrasion and make-up and micro needling.

instructions. Cherry Blooms is the only fiber lash mascara with a 30 Day Money Back Guarantee.

The Benefit - The brush-on fibers are lightweight, adhere to your own lashes and act like instant lash extensions. You will see dramatically longer and thicker lashes within seconds. The fibers easily wash off with warm water and a cotton ball.

Come by Studio SKIN for a complimentary demo of this product.

Annie Worley, RN, graduated from Baptist School of Nursing in 1997. As a registered nurse she has more than 8 years’ experience injecting, in which time she has developed a passion for working with people to create the natural, youthful appearance so many of us desire. Annie has attended numerous Level III Palate advanced injection classes, which is the highest level of training a nurse injector can receive. Annie works primarily at Northwest Arkansas Center for Plastic Surgery in Fayetteville, under the direction of Dr. Heath Stacey, a board certified plastic surgeon. She brings her knowledge, experience and passion for cosmetic injectables to Studio Skin on Wednesdays.

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Due to cooler temperatures, you sleep longer in the fall! Plants take this to the extreme by gradually going dormant for the winter season. Applying the proper fertilizer this fall will encourage root growth on both lawns and shrubs, giving them a strong base to thrive on next spring. Great options include Good Earth Brand Jump Start, Bonide Phase One Crabgrass Preventer and Milorganite. Before perennials go dormant, prune back struggling and heat stressed perennials.

Due to cooler temperatures, you are also more likely to fall in love...sounds like a great time to fall in love with your outdoor space! Prep your color areas by removing the summer annuals, and breaking up the existing soil. Breaking up the soil adds oxygen to the soil, increases water percolation, and increases nutrient levels, all of which will help the roots of your fall plantings grow and get established quickly. Next, it’s time to do some soil amending. For perennial and annual color areas, we suggest using what we professionals use; Good Earth Brand Professional Growing Mix. Its’ mix of organic matter, perlite, pH adjusters and Actino root protection provide an optimum growing environment. Fall annual choices include Pansies, Violas, Mums, Cabbage, Kale, Ornamental Mustard, Rudbeckias, and much more. Don’t forget to give your planters a fall make-over too! Use Good Earth Brand Jump Start to give the roots a boost. It’s time to plant, fertilize, mulch and fall back in love with your landscape!

Photosynthesis stops during cooler temperatures, causing the leaves on trees to turn beautiful, vibrant colors! Is your landscape full of vibrant colors? Well, it can be just by adding some tried and true shrubs that have great fall color such as Burning Bush, Oakleaf Hydrangeas, Virginia Sweetspire, and Blueberries. There are also many trees that provide fall foliage color such as Maples, Zelkovas, Redbuds and Dogwoods.

Most ornamental grasses produce plumes in the fall, and give excellent texture contrast.

Pumpkins were once used to remove freckles and cure snake bites! Since we can all agree that freckles are adorable and the efficacy of pumpkins on snake bites is questionable, let’s save the pumpkins for the fun stuff! Pie pumpkins and Fairy Tale pumpkins are some of the best for baking and every pumpkin adds its own flare to your fall decor. We are very excited to get our first truckload of gorgeous, locally grown pumpkins and we bet your perfect pumpkin will be in there somewhere...so come see us!

54 WOMEN’S INC. / SEPTEMBER 2014

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CONWAY REGIONAL AD