Orange Appeal March/April 2023

86 Business Is Blooming!

Six local businesswomen are showcased in spring fashions as they share their stories of personal and professional growth. Olive Gaye, founder of GenCare Resources; Laura Dulay, founder of Salon Dulay; Kelly McFall, Profit Center Manager of Artisan Kitchen and Bath Gallery; Emily Dowling Williams, entrepreneur and designer; Sarah Marotta Geltz, shareholder in the Cornerstone Law Firm; and Ansley Schrimsher, founder of Dora Mae Jewelry, are all thriving beautifully.

92 Painting with Petals

Art in Bloom at Orlando Museum of Art showcases scentsational works by floral designers at the annual fundraiser, hosted by the Council of 101, that pairs designers with museum artworks for artistic renderings. The event is a mix of social events and famous-name guest speakers, including talks by renowned interior designer Amanda Lindroth and author and French impressionist painter Jill Steenhuis.

77 Special Section: Professional Profiles — Leading Businesswomen

This series of special promotions, highlighting outstanding women in Central Florida, focuses on women who are accomplished and dedicated to their careers and community.

on the cover: Emily Dowling Williams photographed in a private residence by Z Properties wearing clothing from The

and jewelry from Be On Park. Details on page 89

Grove

10 THE LIST

People, places and things: FunHundred! was created for the community to celebrate the Winter Park Chamber of Commerce’s centennial; Hot Tickets: spring events for Central Florida social service nonprofits;; The Rose Society of Kids Beating Cancer is back hosting another fabulous event this April; The Sweetheart Society, a group of individuals from our community dedicated to making a lasting impact on the health of their neighbors, are getting ready for the 2023 Heart Ball; Women to Watch: Women United is a diverse, vibrant community of United Way supporters making a difference; A rite of the season for 64 years, the Winter Park Sidewalk Festival of Art is scheduled for March 17-19.

30 BEAUTY, BODY & SPIRIT

Bright & Bold: Spring has arrived, but instead of powdery pastels 2023 calls for brilliantly hued pouts; BEAUTY BODY SPIRIT 2023, a day truly designed for you based on self-love, self-care and positivity; Setting Boundaries For Mental Wellness, a new book by Dr. Shainna Ali, mental health counselor, educator, and advocate; Women Are Incredible: Carolyn Moor’s very personal journey from grief to growth.

46 TASTES & EXPERIENCES

Maxine’s On Shine, the friendliest neighborhood eatery with consistently great food; A nostalgic road trip to Key West includes a stay at The Pier House for a chill, laid back, casual experience where no-schedule days flow into gorgeous sunsets. Bits & Bites: Updates from Modest Wine, Tim’s Wine Market Windermere, NORMAN’S, and Park Avenue Tavern.

58 HOME & DESIGN

Sisters Shelby and Allie Sloan have truly transformed a house, on Lang Avenue in the Mills 50 neighborhood, into the charming Gold Dust Home; Tessa McAuliff, Tessa’s Table, shares her expertise for hosting a successful and relatively stress-free event; 3 Spots to Shop: Pistil Home & Garden in Windermere, B Home in College Park and Bamboo & Foo in the Ivanhoe District are filled with fabulous finds for your living spaces.

64 AGENDA

Highlighted events include: Orange Appeal’s Women of the Year reception; Love Your Library evening to benefit the Winter Park Library; the 2023 St. Jude Gala; Country for a Cause supporting the Foundation For Foster Children; and more.

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Life Lessons Learned

It was almost a year ago that I was honored as the Winter Park Chamber of Commerce’s 2022 Woman of Influence, which afforded me an opportunity to speak. But what did I have to offer that would be relevant? I spent several days reflecting on my life and career, realizing I might just have a few nuggets to offer. After the event several women asked me to share them. As we celebrate women in business with this issue, the time seemed right.

1. Keep a true-blue believer in your back pocket.

When I met my husband, I was working at a seemingly exciting, but dead-end job. It was really dead-end when the company went bankrupt. He thought I could do anything, even encouraging me to try law school. A short time later I began my magazine publishing career, and he has always been there — quietly in the background and never questioning my career choices no matter how crazy.

2. Don’t discount your experiences.

I spent five years as a flight attendant — four of which were Miami-London runs. But when I was ready to start a career, I never mentioned it or included it on my resume. It was years later when I realized all the strengths, skills and lessons I gained and learned — dealing with difficult people and situations; walking and talking with authority; and the ability to make split-second decisions if needed. Don’t ever underestimate your experiences.

3. Be your best brand ambassador. First impressions count. The way you enter a room — from attire, expression, posture and other body language — tells people who you are. And the first time may be your only chance to let them know. You might be uncomfortable mingling with those you don’t know, but make yourself part of the conversation. Remember to listen and ask thoughtful questions.

4. Own it, work it, just do it.

These three will illustrate your integrity and define your reputation. Mistakes will be made, but as quickly as possible rectify them or apologize. No one is going to give you anything, so put in the time and effort. When in doubt, go for it; the greater the risk, the greater the reward. But be willing to take the heat — there may be many hot days.

5. Be assertive, not aggressive. When I worked in a 99% male-dominated industry (made up of 95% New Yorkers), I was a young, Southern woman. I had to prove myself, a lot, but one day one of the few female executives pulled me aside and said you know what I like about you? She continued, “I like you because you have big brass (you-know-what’s) but they are in a little velvet pouch.” Don’t be afraid to be hard with soft edges.

6. Know when to go.

In any position there will come a time when you are unfulfilled, underappreciated, or have nowhere left to go. It’s okay to leave, but leave on your terms. Plan for your departure… ideally have another position lined up, but at least collect your contacts and connections and decide how you want the chapter to end.

7. You won’t always be popular. If you follow your heart and stay true to yourself, some people will disagree with things you do and say and may never see situations your way. It’s okay to leave relationships behind. And it’s okay if you aren’t prom queen every day. Being true is more important than being popular.

8. Cultivate & cherish your circle.

I definitely did not follow this when I was a younger, working mother. I did not give myself the time and space for developing and maintaining friendships. But in the past decade I have realized how important this is, and in particular during the pandemic years, they were my true lifeline.

9. Define your success.

Many of us bought into the standard definition of success based on comparisons — bigger is better. Add employees, make more money, get the corner office, and grow, grow, grow. But if you do what you love with passion and purpose, you will be successful on your own terms and that’s all that matters.

10. Be grateful, humble and kind.

Every day I thank God for my life and the people in it. Every day I think about what I can do better. And every day I strive to do something nice for someone else. It’s simple. In our selfie society be aware of others around you and no matter how tough a day is, millions of people have it worse. Never forget that.

TAMARA KNIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY

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EVENTS

The 13th annual ORLANDO WOMEN’S CONFERENCE will be held September 14, 2023.

For updates and details, visit orlandowomensconference.com For sponsorship information email kate@orangeappeal.com

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centennial celebration

The entire community can celebrate the Winter Park Chamber of Commerce’s Centennial via an immersive experience at Mead Botanical Garden through April 30 with free admission. From the custom-designed “100” signs at the entrance to the wildly creative garden zones featuring repurposed materials reimagined into sculptures and scenes that tell a visual story of Winter Park’s roots and ingenuity, FunHundred! was designed to inspire, educate and entertain. The materials and elements were donated and created by volunteers from local schools, businesses and community organizations under the direction of AOA, a themed-entertainment production company headquartered in Winter Park.

HOT Tickets

This spring season Central Florida social service nonprofits will be celebrating their missions through very special events. Here are some highlights you can feel good about adding to your social schedule.

SENIORS FIRST

Mission: Founded in 1966, Seniors First offers a vital support system to vulnerable, older adults, aged 60 and up, and adults of all ages living with disabilities. From Orange County’s Meals on Wheels (MOW), Neighborhood Lunch program, food pantry, medical equipment and supportive services, Seniors First help seniors meet their daily living needs at home, which greatly impacts their health and ability to remain living independently.

16th Annual High Tea & Hats

Sunday, April 27, 1pm | The Alfond Inn | seniorsfirstinc.org

THE FAINE HOUSE

Mission: For more than a decade, The Faine House has operated from a 7,000-square-foot facility in the Pine Hills community of Orlando. The organization hosts 10 private bedroom suites for 18- to 23-year-olds who are in desperate need of access to safety, stability, opportunity and mentorship. Each young adult sets their own financial, occupational and educational goals, and participates in a curriculum designed to heal and empower them to independence.

Mission Impossible: An Evening of Hope Gala

Saturday, April 22, 6pm Rosen Shingle Creek Resort thefainehouse.org

RUNWAY TO HOPE

SECOND HARVEST FOOD BANK

Mission: Second Harvest Food Bank is driven to close the gap of unmet needs in Central Florida in a variety of effective ways. Its mission is to create hope and nourish lives through a powerful hunger relief network, while multiplying the generosity of a caring community. Services include food distribution, disaster relief, culinary training, nutrition education, and a variety of kids programs.

2nd Annual Ultimate Garden Party

Saturday, May 20, 1pm | Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek | feedhopenow.org

Mission: Runway to Hope was founded in 2010 by Mark and Josie NeJame with a simple vision — to bring new and innovative programs to the oncology programs of the three local children’s hospitals and keep funding in Central Florida. Since then, Runway to Hope’s investment has created a more efficient use of funds and prevention of duplicating services and care offered locally. As a result of these efforts, the pediatric oncologists and hospital systems are helping pediatric cancer warriors and their families.

2023 Spring Soirée

Saturday, May 6, 6pm

Rosen Shingle Creek Resort runwaytohope.org

Kids Beating Cancer’s Rose Society

The Rose Society of Kids Beating Cancer is back hosting another fabulous event this April. The Rose Society is a group of dedicated women committed to the mission of Kids Beating Cancer. The main purpose of the committee is raising funds for Kids Beating Cancer’s mission through their promotion of the Hats & Roses Luncheon & Fashion Show.

We are so excited to be hosting the fourth annual Hats & Roses Luncheon & Fashion Show on Friday, April 14, 2023, at the elegant Four Seasons Orlando Resort,” says Margaret Guedes, the founder of Kids Beating Cancer who started the organization after the passing of her son from Leukemia 30 years ago. “The event was attended by over 400 people last year and we are so excited for this year’s theme, The Royal Ascot, which will provide a unique opportunity to blend high-end fashion, gourmet cuisine, and local vendors, at a very elegant location. The impact of the community’s support of this extraordinary, unique event will be to save children’s lives right here in Central Florida,” she adds.

The tragic death of one little boy 30 years ago could have been simply that, a “tragic death.” Instead, the short life of that little

boy has inspired the Central Florida community to support Kids Beating Cancer to advocate for these children and their families, who only want what every parent wants: their child to be healthy, to beat cancer, and for the family to survive the long journey to a cure. For the past 30 years Kids Beating Cancer has been carrying out its mission of providing children access to life-saving treatments through the science of cellular therapy and advancing pediatric innovative, novel, research, moving new discoveries to patient care, while supporting the children and their families throughout the journey to a cure.

The Rose Society of Kids Beating Cancer was founded by Dr. Francelis I. Gonzalez, known to many as Dr. G. “I accepted the challenge to create the Rose Society and put together the Hats & Roses Luncheon & Fashion Show, and I am very excited about this year’s theme,” Dr. Gonzalez says. “My

commitment to Kids Beating Cancer started years ago and is linked to my career as a pediatric hematologist-oncologist. The road to recovery of pediatric patients affected with cancer is long. I understand that science and research is the key to discovering the cure to save lives. Together with purpose and passion we are coming together for this amazing event that will fulfill the goal of raising funds for Kids Beating Cancer.”

Last year, Kids Beating Cancer celebrated its 30th Anniversary with a vision to have a place dedicated to curing children by establishing the Kids Beating Cancer Children’s Center. “As we move into our 31st year, we are launching our vision to advance research to bring the latest treatment available worldwide to the bedside right here in Central Florida and beyond. Our dedication going forward is to create a unique, one-of-a-kind pediatric healing

Rose Society Members

center of hope and opportunity dedicated to curing children by establishing the Kids Beating Cancer Children’s Center. Our focus remains on the belief we all strive for — the day when no child will die before they can experience the joy of life. Science and treatment will continue to be at the apex, where knowledge, treatment and family support coalesce to cure a little boy or girl,” states Margaret Guedes.

Rose Society Members:

April Ales

Anna Aveiga

Indira Ayala

Alyce Bartolomeo

Jaleh Benner

Farah Bloom

Ariane Brown

Deisamar  Desoto-Torres

Sarvita  Emch

Denise  Fix

Francelis Gonzalez

Sarah Grafton

Therese(Tera) Hovhanessian

Chloe Ivanescu

Brigitte Jensen

Patsy Lamastus

Alma Lopez (Garces)

Ana Lopez

Yaneth Monsalve

Rosana Mourad

Graciela Nani

Juliana No

Betsy Otoya

Magda Luz Oyola (Sola)

Karen Parslow

Karina Perez

Jennifer Polanco

Lynette Quiñones

Maria (Olga Marcela) Restrepo

Dagmar Rios Rivers

Marianna Helena Rodriguez

MaryPaz Sanchez

Vivian Santiago

Carey Sheffield

Renuka Sivanesan

Christina Stadhard

Yeny Terrero

Mirella Thomas

Chrissy Toot

Isabella Tran

Imee Warren

Margaret Guedes and Dr. Francelis Gonzalez

Danielle Newbold

2023 Sweetheart Society

The Orlando Heart Ball recognizes and celebrates the progress community supporters, and the American Heart Association, are driving to ensure healthier, longer lives for all people. The American Heart Association is committed to investing in and advancing health equity by removing barriers to health through community impact, scientific research, advocating for healthy policies, and more. The dollars raised by the campaign support priority issues in Orlando including CPR education, controlling blood pressure, improving nutrition security, and fighting the tobacco and vaping crisis.

THE ANNUAL CELEBRATORY EVENT is a night to honor survivors, patrons and volunteers of the American Heart Association, the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health. The evening will feature stories from survivors, as well as dinner, dancing and an exciting auction. This year’s Orlando Heart Ball is chaired by Arnaldo E. Vélez, MD, vascular neurologist with Orlando Health Neuroscience Institute, and Marshall C. Cress, MD, neurosurgeon with Orlando Health Neuroscience Institute.

Counterclockwise from top left: Michael and Lauren Brusca, Sweetheart Society Chair; Heather Price, Kelly Wigington and Cindy Price (not pictured: Matt Price); Peter and Kari Fleck; and Kim and Jesse Martinez

The Sweetheart Society is a group of individuals from our community who are dedicated to making a lasting impact on the health of their neighbors. These women and men are year-round ambassadors who support the American Heart Association’s Heart of Orlando, an annual effort aimed at investing in and saving and improving lives in Orlando.

“I am proud to work together with the Sweetheart Society and the American Heart Association as we all advocate to make a difference in the well-being of people in Central Florida,” says Dr. Linus Wodi, board presi dent of the American Heart Association, Greater Orlando, and cardiologist at AdventHealth. “Together, we must continue to strive to do whatever we can to make a lasting impact on the health of our community.”

Not just for couples, the Sweetheart Society includes duos of all types including mother-daughter, best friends and survivor-caregiver, just to name a few. For more information on the Orlando Heart Ball or Sweetheart Society, go to orlandoheartball.heart.org or email Candace.Goodman@heart.org

2023 Orlando Heart Ball

Saturday, May 6, 2023

Loews Portofino Bay Hotel

Counterclockwise from top left: Dr. Linus and Jennifer Wodi; Dyan and Mark Goodman; Angie Heij; Julie Kleffel; Amanda and Alexandre Mestdagh; and Chris and Dr. Douglas Gearity

2023 ORLANDO SWEETHEART SOCIETY*

Michael and Lauren Brusca, Sweetheart Society Chair

Alex Maturell and Jenna Beatty

Kevin and Kim Cook

Dr. Gul and Ellen Dadlani

Peter and Kari Fleck

Dr. Douglas and Chris Gearity

Mark and Dyan Goodman

Jim and Angie Heij

Julie and Faith Kleffel

Jesse and Kim Martinez

Alexandre and Amanda Mestdagh

Glenn and Tracy Swanson

Cindy Price, Matt Price, Heather Price and Kelly Wigington

Dr. Linus and Jennifer Wodi

*As of 2/1/2023

Left to right: Kevin and Kim Cook; and Ellen and Dr. Gul Dadlani

WOMEN UNITED: Local Leaders Come Together to Serve the Community

Women United is a diverse, vibrant community of United Way supporters bound together by a powerful sense of belonging to each other, the organization’s mission, and the communities we call home. The powerful, global network of women leaders, more than 70,000 strong, stands up for the most critical issues facing more than 165 communities in six countries.

Heart of Florida United Way has such a strong mission that really touches every part of our Central Florida community. Through Women United, you can see the power in pulling together passionate female leaders and asking them to focus on a common goal. If we can continue to grow the number of women that are engaged in Women United and provide opportunities for them to volunteer, advocate and support causes that impact the ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) here in Central Florida, I am sure we will see some measurable changes in our communities,” says Vicky Santamaria, Women United Engagement Chair.

“Women United harnesses the heart and minds of so many talented women leaders and upcoming leaders in our community focused on positive change for our community. As more and more of these amazing women come together, the impact will be immense,” adds Danielle Hollander, Women United Vice Chair.

Here in Central Florida, Women United is focused on supporting the ALICE — or Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed — population. Currently, ALICE represents more than 46% of our population in Orange, Seminole and Osceola counties. Many of them have the drive and ambition to succeed at higher levels but have lacked the opportunity. They want more than a hand-out; they want a hand up.

“Women United is a place where professional women of diverse backgrounds gather together because of our like-mindedness. We are all united in wanting to create economic stability and safety for the women and children in our community. This passion is what connects us and deepens our relationships with one another,” explains Melanie DiVirgilio, Women United Advisory Board Member.

Women United — currently chaired by Lisa Curran, OUC — The Reliable One — is led by volunteers and local advocates for Heart of Florida United Way’s mission to bring more people together to make an impact.

For more information on becoming involved, visit hfuw.org/womenunited/

Left: Women United provides professionals from all industries the chance to hone their leadership skills while giving back to the community. The 2022-23 Women United Advisory Board is led by (from left) Danielle Hollander, Visit Orlando, as Vice Chair; Lisa Curran, OUC — The Reliable One, as Chair; Vicky Santamaria, AdventHealth, as Engagement Chair; and Kathy Brown, Johnson & Johnson, as Luncheon Chair. Right: Volunteering is at the core of Women United's impact. There are several volunteer opportunities throughout the year including Thanksgiving Project pictured here. Women United assembled hundreds of the 4,000 meal kits distributed during Thanksgiving last year.

WOMEN UNITED LUNCHEON

Heart of Florida United Way (HFUW) will host the 16th annual Women United Luncheon on Wednesday, April 26 from 11am – 1:30pm at Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld. Christine D’Ercole, public speaker, writer, competitive cyclist and popular Peloton instructor, will headline the event. Christine’s WORDSHOP™s and keynote speeches are rooted in self-talk. Her work covers topics from body image, addiction and loss to corporate cultural growth and team building. She has worked with groups ranging from youth organizations to major corporations, special interest ERGs and first responders. She will share the same mindful motivation with attendees as she does with thousands of devoted riders and WORDSHOP™ participants every day.

“I’m so excited to raise awareness about the importance of positive self-talk and

Volunteering brings me joy and fills my heart with gratitude. Joining with gracious and philanthropic women, such as Women United, makes my volunteer experience even more gratifying because we are making an impact in our community together.

– Erica Atterbury, Women United volunteer

The Women United Luncheon is the signature fundraiser of the year for Women United and is a meanginful way to raise funds for the mission of Heart of Florida United Way. If you're interested in joining the committee, email WomenUnited@HFUW.org.

the role it plays in reaching our full potential,” says Kathy Brown, luncheon chair. “It’s a message we all need to hear because when we are at our best, we perform better in all aspects of our lives and that includes how we show up for our community.”

In addition to providing the keynote address at the Women United Luncheon, Christine will also offer an interactive WORDSHOP™ — where participants edit their self-talk in real time, developing the skills needed to move their lives from where they are to where they want to be.

“Everything we think, feel and express is tied to language, to words, and they are strung together to become our stories,” Christine explains. “Every day, we tell ourselves stories about who we are, who we wish to be, and many times, who we cannot be. These stories often start with the words ‘I am…’ and end with something awful. Changing this negative self-talk is one of the most powerful tools we can cultivate to improve our quality of life and relationships — both personally and professionally.”

The WORDSHOP™ is an additional ticketed event designed to help participants examine their self-talk and provide techniques to “change their chatter.” This will be a more intimate opportunity to engage with Christine and learn about the power of mental fitness.

For more information visit hfuw.org/event/wuluncheon2023/ To register text WUL23 to 91999

Spring Festival in the Park I

f you ask locals when spring officially begins, many will reply, “When the Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival returns.” A rite of the season for 64 years, the annual celebration of art is scheduled for March 17-19. The Festival is one of the nation’s oldest and most prestigious juried fine art shows. It consistently ranks among the most highly regarded outdoor art shows in the nation and its artists compete for one of the largest cash awards ($76,500) among the top shows. Additionally, the enthusiastic Patrons Program is expected to spend more than $85,000 in Art Bucks this year. Artists’ booths nestle under the large oak trees in Central Park and line Winter Park’s historic Park Avenue. Attendance usually reaches 250,000 or more for the three-day

festival, making it one of Central Florida’s largest outdoor events. This year 212 fine artists have been selected for participation, chosen from more than 1,000 national and international applications. Along with these juried fine artists and four emerging artists, the festival will feature concerts in Central Park, a wide variety of food and beverages, a large display of outstanding art from local schools, and interactive art activities for kids, guided by local museums.

This year’s highlights include The Monte Livermore Celebration of Nature Award in the amount of $2,000 for an outstanding work of art that features nature in the form of flowers, trees, plants and landscapes; as well as the works of four Emerging Artists, instead of three due to tied scores by the judges.

For the second year, a Saturday Night Jazz Concert will be held the weekend before the festival on March 11, starting at 3:30pm, and will feature the Tal Cohen Trio from 5-6pm, followed by headliner Spyro Gyra at 7:30pm, when they will fill downtown Winter Park with their unique uplifting tones that combine jazz, Latin and R&B.

For more details or for information about volunteering at the festival, joining the patrons program, or viewing the gallery of participating artists, visit www.wpsaf.org

The 2023 poster by artist Debo Groover

Spyro Gyra

beauty body&spirit

bright & bold

Spring has arrived, but instead of powdery pastels 2023 calls for brilliantly hued pouts. Think punchy corals, hot pinks and vibrant magentas as you shop for new shades and take a cue from these luscious lipsticks. Clockwise from top left: Clinique Pop Plus creamy lip gloss in Rosewater Pop; Saint Laurent Bold High Pigment lipstick in Le Rouge; Christian Louboutin Velvet Matte lipstick in Diva: Estee Lauder Pure Color lipstick in Defiant Coral; Clinique Pop lipstick in Red-y to Wear; Bobbi Brown Crushed Oil-Infused lip gloss in Hot Streak; and Valentino Rosso Satin lipstick in Heart Bloom (refillable).

A New Event Designed for YOU

What if there was a day truly designed for you based on self-love, self-care and positivity? After 15 years of creating content for you through Orange Appeal and the Orlando Women’s Conference, we decided to bring you something new in the form of intimate and informative conversations in a beautifully relaxed setting where you can come wearing your comfy athleisure.

BEAUTY BODY SPIRIT is designed to showcase speakers and related companies so you can take a few hours to breathe, reflect and learn how to take better care of yourself. Join us on April 27 at Harriett’s Orlando Ballet Centre and be surrounded by other women who are looking to live better. Our program leaders will take turns for short, impactful segments broken up with energizing and calming breaks. There will be plenty of opportunities to visit with vendors and connect with other attendees. The day will also include a luncheon, special presentation by Orlando Ballet, and complimentary valet parking.

The presenting sponsor is AdventHealth for Women and additional sponsors include Orlando Ballet, The Bar Method Orlando-Winter Park, and Pearson’s Catering. Some of the scheduled speakers include the following:

DR. SHAINNA ALI is a mental health counselor, educator and advocate who is dedicated to highlighting the important role of mental health in fostering happiness, fulfillment and overall wellness. She is the author of The Self-Love Workbook, The SelfLove Workbook for Teens, The Self-Love Planner, and Luna Finds Love Everywhere, and is the owner of Integrated Counseling Solutions, a counseling and consulting practice. In her practice, she uses a strengthsbased approach that empowers clients on their journey of self-love and mental wellness. Her new book, Designing Healthy Boundaries: A Guide to Embracing SelfLove, Building Better Boundaries, and Protecting Your Peace breaks down the process into steps with self-reflection opportunities and exploratory exercises.

LESLIE CHRISTIN is the founder and creative force behind CARA Cosmetics International. She became a licensed cosmetologist and began her career as a makeup artist in her early 20s. Leslie has worked

on many television shows and feature films allowing her to collaborate with some of this country’s most celebrated actors, models and stars. It was Leslie’s experience in the film, television, video and print media that allowed her to learn the ins and outs of the cosmetics industry, which cultivated an interest in the “business” of cosmetics. She has shaped CARA Cosmetics into an exceptional line, where product quality meets the demands of today’s ethnically diverse market, fulfilling the CARA philosophy of “Beauty Everywhere for Everyone at Every Age.”

VIVIANA DIAZ, BSN, RN, is a Women’s Health Navigator at AdventHealth for Women, and has been serving patients at AdventHealth since 2015. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Nova Southeastern University. Viviana has more than 10 years of experience in multiple nursing disciplines, including obstetrics, parent education and mental health. As a health care advocate, Viviana is bilingual in Spanish

and English and is committed to providing women and families with the support they need throughout their health care journeys.

CHERLETTE MCCULLOUGH is a mental health advocate, keynote speaker, author, and co-founder of the Coffee and Counseling Podcast. Cherlette holds a Provisional Mental Health Therapist License in the State of Florida (License #PMT 228) and is the owner of Center Peace Couples & Family Therapy, a private practice located in Winter Park. She specializes in helping individuals heal from trauma connected to family conflict, marital and premarital issues, infertility, depression, anxiety, family of origin dysfunction, and grief and loss. Cherlette is a partner of the PACE Center for Girls Orange, is an active member of the Women’s Executive Exchange, and was most recently appointed to serve on the board of the Mental Health Association of Central Florida, the area’s leading community-based nonprofit dedicated to addressing the needs of mental health.

DR. SHAINNA ALI CAROLYN MOOR AMBER ORMAN, MD, DipABLM ALLISON WALSH

VIVIANA DIAZ, BSN, RN LESLIE CHRISTIN CHERLETTE MCCULLOUGH

CAROLYN MOOR is America’s top widow advocate and founder of the Modern Widows Club nonprofit, a holistic women’s health organization. From grassroots to a global movement, they are empowering widows to thrive with compassionate support to move from grief to growth by designing innovative events, e-courses, and programs for the modern widow. Featured on TED, Oprah, CBS Sunday Morning, Psychology Today, NPR, WSJ and TLC, Carolyn was selected by Orlando magazine as a 2022 Woman of the Year honoree. Her book Inspire Connect Lead: Empowering Your Widow Mentoring and Leadership Gifts shares stories of inspiration and leadership.

AMBER ORMAN, MD, DipABLM, is a double board-certified radiation oncologist and lifestyle medicine specialist focusing on breast cancer treatment and prevention. She is the first ever Chief Wellness Officer (CWO) of AdventHealth Medical Group. She is also the co-founder of the HEAL (Healthy Eating and Active Lifestyle) program at AdventHealth in Orlando. HEAL is an 8-week lifestyle medicine program designed to educate and inspire cancer patients to make positive changes to decrease cancer recurrence and improve overall health span. She is a mother to three teenagers and two poodles, wife to a witty nephrologist, and spends her free time trail running, lifting, rowing, cycling, and summiting Colorado’s peaks.

ALLISON WALSH is a seasoned executive, philanthropist, speaker, professional consultant and Miss Florida 2006. With over 15 years of experience in organizational leadership, success coaching, brand building and business development, Allison's platform strengthens the professional development of today and tomorrow's most successful leaders. As a certified positive psychology coach, her passion and expertise lie in helping women build their personal brands and businesses so they can live their most authentic and successful life. Allison is the author of multiple published workbooks on personal and professional development and the creator of the She Believed She Could Society, an online community and coaching experience.

Thursday, April 27

Harriett’s Orlando Ballet Centre 10am – 3pm

More details will be shared on Facebook (@orangeappealmag), Instagram (@appeal_media) and at orangeappeal.com

Setting Boundaries For Mental Wellness

Dr. Shainna Ali is a mental health counselor, educator, and advocate who is dedicated to highlighting the important role of mental health in fostering happiness, fulfillment, and overall wellness. She is the author of The Self-Love Workbook, The Self-Love Workbook for Teens, The Self-Love Planner, and Luna Finds Love Everywhere, and is the owner of Integrated Counseling Solutions, a counseling and consulting practice.

In her practice, she uses a strengthsbased approach that empowers clients on their journey of self-love and mental wellness.

Her new book — a workbook actually — Designing Healthy Boundaries: A Guide to Embracing Self-Love, Building Better Boundaries, and Protecting Your Peace breaks down the process into steps with selfreflection opportunities and exploratory exercises. Here are some excerpts from some of the chapters.

Healthy Boundary Design

The entire boundary process serves as a practice of self-respect. As you reflect on which boundaries to set, you acknowledge what matters most to you. As you design those boundaries, you artfully attune to your values and honor yourself by articulating the best ways to protect them. When you remain connected to this purposeful process, you inevitability reap harmony among your thoughts, feelings, values, and actions. When this becomes a common practice, you can find yourself feeling more calm, secure, stable, genuine, confident, happy, and empowered.

Obstacles to Creating Healthy Boundaries

Even if we do realize how important boundaries are, we may still miss the mark in evaluating exactly how much time and energy is required to support healthy boundaries. For example, we may aim to establish boundaries, but we may not begin with the prerequisite reflection that is crucial for a sturdy boundary-setting foundation. Without this assessment,

we may miss important considerations in our boundary-setting process, such as the purpose of the boundary, who is involved in the boundary, signs that the boundary has been overstepped, and how we can best support the boundary over time.

Challenges to Designing Healthy Boundaries

Designing healthy boundaries is no easy

feat. It takes a lot of time, energy, awareness, and dedication. You may have caught yourself daydreaming about a perfect world in which boundaries wouldn’t be needed — no need to think about them, no need to create them, no need to communicate them, no need to fine-tune them, and certainly no need to heal through them. Regardless of who you are, you will likely encounter challenges in your boundary

journey. A variety of common challenges can crop up as you create, assert, and heal through the process.

Setting Boundaries with Self-Love

The process of self-love begins with the mere task of being able to appreciate you for you. It is crucial to be kind and considerate toward yourself; however, self-love is more than a sentiment. Beyond your ability to tend to yourself, you must remember that self-love is an intentional practice to learn and cultivate. While others and society will be considered, the primary focus will be on you. From time to time, especially in challenging moments, it may feel like there is heavy emphasis on the self even when there are other factors to consider beyond you.

Boundary Domains: Who Are You?

Self-love serves as a catalyst for establishing purposeful parameters. You can begin to set a foundation of self-love by asking four core questions: Who are you? What do you believe? How do you find balance? Where do you have the opportunity to grow? We are all unique. Each of us is a

The process of self-love begins with the mere task of being able to appreciate you for you. It is crucial to be kind and considerate toward yourself; however, self-love is more than a sentiment. Beyond your ability to tend to yourself, you must remember that self-love is an intentional practice to learn and cultivate. While others and society will be considered, the primary focus will be on you.

special combination of traits, preferences, abilities, beliefs, interests, desires, and connections. These parts coalesce to form our overall identity.

Boundary Domains: What Do You Believe?

Tuning in to your thoughts and beliefs gives you a window to the world around you as well as the world within you. Further, you can see how your inner world and the environment/experiences affect one another — or, at minimum, how you perceive them to affect one another. For example, consider your views about how you want to spend your days. If you believe that life is best spent with your loved ones, then that could inform the importance of creating boundaries to protect that connecting time.

Boundary Domains: How Do You Find Balance?

Balance offers a path of wellness. When key areas of life are stable, we’re able to experience a sense of peace. Our minds become calm, and moments occur with ease. We may find ourselves fortunate to arrive to a sense of harmony across our values, feelings, choices, and actions. Balance can look different from person to person, and the formula can shift for one person over time. Additionally, some phases in our lives may challenge our footing more than others. A key aspect of boundary design is to understand what balance looks like in your life and what boundaries you could benefit from forming in order to evoke, maintain, and protect your well-being.

Boundary Domains: Where Do You Have the Opportunity for Growth?

Though the boundary-design process can be challenging, with challenge comes the chance to grow and develop perseverance and resilience — thereby expanding

our knowledge of what we’re capable of. As an added bonus, all this can serve our boundary design in the future. When you shift your focus from the end of your path, you offer yourself the ability to cultivate self-love as you expand in the ongoing opportunity to grow. As you trek, you can live, learn, and thrive as you explore your inner world and the world around you.

Excerpted from Designing Healthy Boundaries by Dr. Shainna Ali.

Copyright © 2023 Ulysses Press. Reprinted with permission from Ulysses Press. New York, NY. All rights reserved.

The book is available on Amazon and other online outlets. For more information, follow Shainna on Instagram @DrShainna or visit DrShainna.com.

women

are incredible! AN A DVENT H EALTH FOR WOMEN SERIES

CAROLYN MOOR: From Grief to Growth

Widowed in 2000 on Valentine’s Day, Carolyn Moor struggled to find resources and support for healing and growth, while caring for two young daughters and running her interior design firm. Eventually she began informally mentoring other female widows and founded the Modern Widows Club in 2011. Today, Modern Widows Club is a mentor, leadership and advocacy organization that’s focused on women’s health.

M“odern Widows Club started out as truly social support, widow to widow. But I started realizing widows are everywhere and these women want to discover their full potential as leaders. We wanted to make sure widows had the support they needed on the leadership level. Most of the women that come to us are looking for compassionate support. And the compassionate support is what takes them from grief to growth,” Carolyn explains.

So, she created a leadership development platform and before long, widows came to her asking if they could take the concept back to their own communities — Central Florida is the epicenter of the organization but there are now Modern Widows Clubs in 40 communities across the U.S., internationally in countries like Africa, India, Canada and Israel, as well as three virtual communities.

“Anyone can connect through the virtual community and it’s going to continue to grow — it certainly did during the pandemic. We were shocked that so many places of worship and even hospice outreach ended during the pandemic right at a time when our ladies were suffering isolation, loneli-

ness, etc. We delivered about 192,000 services last year — meaning a widow made contact with one of our programs,” she says.

Programs continue to expand to meet the unique needs of widows, such as a group for survivors of suicide and a Spanish-speaking community. And Carolyn has focused a lot on widow research and advocacy.

“We didn’t want to create programs we just thought widows wanted, we wanted to actually give them a voice in what we were creating. The beautiful thing about creating a network is we have attorneys, doctors, realtors, mental health counselors, etc. who are widowed, and all those women start helping the other women in the organization. It’s a whole sub-culture and you want those resources for the women who are scared and lost. That’s what I was looking for when I became widowed 22 years ago — and it was just radio silence. And I was just shocked that I — someone who was smart, extremely resourceful, had my own business — couldn’t find any resources,” she adds.

She found New Hope for Kids, but it was only a one-year program. “Modern Widows Club answers the question, ‘What do I do with the rest of my life when I leave grief resources?’ It’s a safe place for ladies to

land and get the resources and build new communities when their identity has been shattered. Because not one woman wants to be in our club, including myself,” Carolyn continues.

The biggest challenge for Carolyn is garnering funding and public support. “It’s very hard to find funding because widow support is completely unidentified as an issue and cause. We’re battling against public awareness. Widows are unseen, unsupported and unmeasured. What is unmeasured will always be underserved,” she explains.

She only began collecting a salary and benefits for her work in 2019 — she had continued doing interior design up until that point. Now she hires widows to help run the programs while keeping overhead as lean as possible. About 80% of the organization’s funding comes from other widows.

To help fundraise, Moderns Widow Club will be releasing a book (on June 23, International Widows Day) called Legendary Widows: Stories of Legacy. It will include 12 women’s stories, some well-known (Eleanor Roosevelt) and others not as well known. “When you get on the advocacy level you go looking for other women who solved really hard problems and you learn from them. We have a book club, and we

JENN FORTUNE PHOTOGRAPHY

got our members to help us write these bios. The book is going to feature the bios of the 12 ladies but then it’s going to have a section called ‘Moor Thoughts’ [Carolyn’s last name] and I’m going to share why these women have impacted my life,” Carolyn explains.

The book will be part of a series and Carolyn hopes it not only raises funds for Modern Widows Club programs but also changes the stigma around female widowhood. “I’m only one voice but I’m really one voice for millions of widows when I speak. My goal is to change the experience for the next generation. There is a way to move from grief to growth and we’re going to be there with them,” she says.

You can connect with Modern Widows Club by calling 844-4-A-WIDOW, emailing support@modernwidowsclub.org or visiting moderwidowsclub.org

WHAT IS A WOMEN’S HEALTH NAVIGATOR?

A health navigator is a specially trained registered nurse whose job is to make life easier for each and every woman through expert clinical assistance and educational, emotional and spiritual support. All calls are confidential; anyone can self-refer; and insurance is not required to talk or meet.

AdventHealth for Women’s health navigators provide complimentary services that help you coordinate your overall care and answer any questions you may have. These services include:

• Finding a care provider

• Answering your health care questions

• Assistance with scheduling annual office visits and screenings

• Resources and support for you and your family

• Coordination of care among multiple providers and facilities

To contact the Health Navigation Team, call 407-720-5191 or visit HerHealthNavigator.com

Doreen Forsythe, BSN, RN Viviana Diaz, BSN, RN

tastes&experiences

shine on!

The friendliest neighborhood eatery serves up consistently good food in an eclectic, cozy atmosphere that lures in more than those within walking distance of its Shine Avenue location. Not only did Maxine’s On Shine receive a Michelin recommendation last year, but inventively thrived during the pandemic converting the parking lot into an outdoor dining haven. For 10 years Maxine and Kirt Earhart have warmly welcomed guests while longtime chef George Vogelbacher has created fromscratch dishes. The popular Rejuicination Brunch, Friday through Sunday, and happy hour on Thursday and Friday only add to the appeal. maxinesonshine.com

Key West: End of the Road

by Christi Ashby

Twenty, twenty-five, thirty, or more? I can’t remember how many road trips I have made to Key West, the literal end of the road in the eastern U.S. For many, it’s too long or boring and they prefer to fly in and out, skipping all the quirkiness and quaintness dotting the Overseas Highway. But we, my husband and I, breathe a sigh of relaxation as soon as we ease out of Florida City into a 180-degree slo-mo video of dense mangroves, turquoise waters, storm-stranded fishing boats, bait shops, and yes, those infamous tiki bars.

And then when the final mile markers tick down and the last key is reached, there is only one decision to make, go left and pass the beaches and airport or head right and wind through the town and marinas. This visit, when we reached the iconic Duval Street, we took it all the way to the western end and pulled into the Pier House Resort & Spa. Lushly landscaped, the series of structures — added or acquired over time

— comprise the retreat that is its own oasis seemingly miles away from the din of Duval. Yet, in just a few steps off the property, you can easily walk to dozens of cultural, shopping and dining spots.

The Pier House, originally opened more than 50 years ago, represents the timeless reason you head to the island — a chill, laid-back, casual experience where noschedule days flow into gorgeous sunsets. Much of Key West remains as I remember from childhood, but today there are cruise

ships that arrive almost every day of the week, temporarily inflating the population, and chickens and roosters roam freely down most streets.

The water, though, is the greatest attraction, which makes the Pier House an ideal place to play on the Gulf of Mexico with its private beach, adjacent Beach Bar, oceanfront One Duval restaurant and pool, and an array of ocean and dock-view rooms and suites. A visit to the intimate dive bar, the Chart Room, is a must with its if these walls could talk atmosphere filled with vintage photos of notable imbibers and storytellers (among them Jimmy Buffet, Louis Armstrong and Mel Fisher).

Our adventure included refreshing cocktails (classic Palomas) and delicious appetizers (lobster BLT sliders) at the Beach Bar. Gourmet breakfasts at One Duval of Norwegian salmon benedict and Havana-style French toast fueled us for exploring nearby waterfront marinas where we spent much of our mornings and afternoons. You just can’t tire of watching sailboats and yachts glide and ripple through the multi-hued seas. The spa offered massages that hit all the spots — even releasing the ones you didn’t know you had — and the staff was very professional and accommodating.

(Opposite page) There are lots of options for sunset cruises and the Pier House private beach can be seen from the water. The resort’s lush landscaping welcomes guests at every turn.

(This page) A stop in the Chart Room reveals the bar’s colorful history. Comfortable guest rooms and suites offer a variety of views.

The America 2.0 sailing schooner is modeled after one of the most famous maritime icons of all time. Nautical nods can be found throughout the city. The lobster sliders at the Pier House Beach Bar are the perfect afternoon snack.

To really take in all the sights from a schooner on a sunset cruise was magical and one thing we had never done before. Our captain ensured we moved smoothly as the crew served wine and appetizers between their duties on the sails. And of course, we posed for the obligatory photo at

Pier House Resort & Spa

the Southernmost Point Buoy, and I purchased a pair of the comfortable Kino sandals from the factory. But mainly we slowly strolled the streets, grooved to live music, noshed, nibbled and sipped, and then slipped into slumberland totally unencumbered. Aah, Key West, ’til we meet again.

1 Duval St., Key West 33040 | 305-296-4600 | pierhouse.com

Wining Dining Around Town &

Tim’s Wine Market Windermere

The fairly new owner of the wine shop, Kinsey Hamer, had been with the Windermere location since 2019 and officially became the owner in April 2022. She has continued the Tim’s tradition of offering a variety of wines at all different price points as well as friendly advice and tastings. Known as a gathering spot for residents of Windermere and surrounding areas, the recent Windermere Wine & Dine featured more than 40 labels she procured for the event. With a customer-first attitude, she brings in high-end, New World wines to suit their tastes and hosts Wine Down Fridays.

428 Main St. Windermere | 407-876-9463 | timswine.com/locations/windermere/

NORMAN’S

Norman Van Aken, restaurateur, chef, author, and James Beard recipient of “Who’s Who in America,” is back with a new location on Restaurant Row featuring his signature New World Cuisine dishes, as well as his newest culinary concepts. NORMAN’S serves up a selection of culinary and mixology experiences, including a glass-enclosed wine cellar boasting an extensive list of varietals. The restaurant includes a main dining room, two private dining rooms, and the ability to dine in the interior bar. The exterior Patio at Norman’s was designed by RH Patio and offers a bar, lounge seating, signature cocktails, and small plates.

7924 Via Dellagio Way Orlando | 321-754-1025 | normans.com

Modest Wine

Level II sommelier and former wine director of Chef JeanGeorges in New York City, Kyle Ridington opened a modest wine shop that specializes in small production wines and grower champagne on Fairbanks Avenue in Winter Park (next to Fiddler’s Green). “We like to support smaller, artisanal wines that is like a farm to table concept,” he says. There is a bountiful, but not overwhelming, selection of wines that you won’t find in your local grocery store.

Kyle offers blind tastings — as he does not want the taster to have preconceived notions based on the varietal — and rotates the wine selection each week so there’s always something new to discover. In addition, Modest Wine has a monthly wine club and champagne club featuring rare finds hand-selected by Kyle. The shop is also available for private events and larger tastings.

544 W. Fairbanks Ave. Winter Park | 407-960-3857 | modest-wine.com

Park Avenue Tavern

The southeast corner of New England and Pennsylvania Avenue in Hannibal Square has been vacant for nearly four years, but the growing area is finally welcoming a newcomer, Park Avenue Tavern. But before you think the name is a nod to Winter Park’s famous avenue, you should know this reference is to that iconic New York City avenue. With a menu of New American style dishes, diners can enjoy starters like burrata with grilled stone fruit compote and crispy prosciutto; a fresh watermelon salad with arugula, feta, red onions and mint vinaigrette; buffalo chicken dip with dill crème fraiche and house-made chips for dipping; and award-winning burgers.

Designed by Dallago Associates Hospitality Designers, Park Avenue Tavern makes the most of its corner location, with a combination of indoor tables and booths surrounding a centerpiece bar, with craft cocktails and a sophisticated list of wines and beers. The interior is cozy and comfortable, with distressed red brick walls, dark wood, black lighting fixtures, and upholstery and green fabric accents. The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, with happy hour and weekend brunch service to follow.

558 W. New England Ave. Winter Park

321-972-1469

parkavenuetavern.com/winter-park/

home &design

vintage vibes

Sisters Shelby and Allie Sloan have truly transformed a house, on Lang Avenue in the Mills 50 neighborhood, into a home filled with charming and delightful finds. Gold Dust Home is a decade-long vision of Shelby’s – she utilized her background in styling and merchandising and passion for collecting to create a cozy boutique displaying products from small makers she loves. The whole family – including mom and dad, Becca and Charlie — pitched in to complete the primarily cosmetic renovation. Inside you will discover everything from glassware and candles to art and accessories in four different themed rooms. In particular, Shelby and Allie are proud of their offerings from Mexico, a nod to their heritage. They plan to offer classes, workshops and private dinners soon and love living the shop life golddusthome.com

EASY

ENTERTAINING:

5 Tips for Spring Soirées

INTIMIDATED BY THE THOUGHT OF INVITING FRIENDS OVER FOR A MEAL? YOU ARE NOT ALONE. BUT TESSA MCAULIFF, TESSA’S TABLE, SHARES HER EXPERTISE FOR HOSTING A SUCCESSFUL AND RELATIVELY STRESS-FREE EVENT.

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DINE ALFRESCO

Mild spring weather makes it the perfect time to entertain outdoors. Whether you are planning brunch, lunch or dinner, hosting outdoors is what the season is all about. To elevate the ambiance in the evening, string market lights above your table — think a Tuscan gathering under the stars. If you don’t have market lights, bring a couple indoor lamps outside or use battery-operated table lamps or candles for extra lighting.

STYLE A FUN BAR CART

A bar cart where guests help themselves is a must for effortless entertaining. Leave a bowl of candied pecans or truffle popcorn for guests to enjoy while everyone else arrives. Instead of mixing individual cocktails, mix pitchers of springtime cocktails like a botanical gin and blood orange cocktail, blackberry mint mojitos, or a blush sangria using seasonal fruit and fresh herbs. If you’re not serving cocktails, pitchers of cucumber mint water and hibiscus iced tea are also beautiful options.

SET THE TABLE

makes you nervous, buy lots of the same flower or same color flower to create abundance. A simpler idea is placing single flowers in bud vases down the table and adding candles.

CREATE A MENU USING SEASONAL INGREDIENTS

I begin my spring menus by going to the farmers market and choosing the freshest produce. Some popular springtime ingredients include arugula, citrus, beets, carrots, strawberries, asparagus, pineapple and broccoli. A honey and citrus baked salmon is one of my favorites to serve accompanied by a feta and orzo salad with a lemony vinaigrette. If there’s no time to cook, I love to host a brunch with croissants from my favorite local bakery, a fresh fruit platter, thick maple bacon, quiche, and a mimosa bar.

ENJOY YOUR OWN PARTY

One of the most important details about throwing a dinner party is actually enjoying your own party. Platters of food on a grazing table is my signature serving style, so try to prepare what you can ahead of time. Place everything on large platters so guests can help themselves. Keep bottles of wine on the table or on your bar cart by the table so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the spring season.

For more of Tessa’s inspiring lifestyle, visit tessastable.com.

3 Spots to Shop

PISTIL HOME & GARDEN

A curated lifestyle shop opened on Windermere’s Main Street two weeks before the COVID shutdown, but owner Rania Ata was undeterred and quickly created an online option with delivery as well as private in-store appointments. From a variety of houseplants to exclusive lines of home accessories, books and gifts, Pistil Home & Garden is filled with hand-selected items intended to foster happiness.

“I wanted to do this as a real lifestyle shop where you find things you love and have to have in your home. It’s all about how you put it all together in a tasteful way,” Rania says. She buys via U.S. market shows within all price points, but in the future plans to also shop European markets for artisans to feature.

Pistil’s mantra — Make. Learn. Grow. — is fulfilled through workshops and classes. And the merchandise is constantly changing, making regular visits a must. Some of the specialty companies showcased are Simon Pearce glassware, Baobob Collection candles, Montes Doggett pottery from Peru, Christofle tableware, Michael Aram metal ware, Le Jacquard Français linens, Match pewter handmade in Italy, L’objet décor, and Beatriz Ball serving pieces. Gourmet food brands include Savannah Bee Co., Bella Cucina and Galantina. pistilhomegarden.com

BAMBOO & FOO

Sisters-in-law Laurie Stephens and Lisa Spears opened Bamboo & Foo, a vintage and home décor store, in September 2021. Both have a passion for collecting and curating antiques, including the store’s signature foo dogs.

Typically referred to as lions in Chinese culture, Han royalty adopted the lion as protection iconography and adorned tombs and shrines with stone and earthen sculptures. These sculptures were often placed in pairs — male and female — one on each side of an entrance, to act as guardians. Laurie explains there all sorts of adaptations today — also representing other Asian cultures — to act as guardians of the home.

She and Lisa loved the meaning and unique representation of foo dogs that they began collecting them from all over Florida and other parts of the country on their travels. They also look for quality antique furnishings and one-of-a-kind accessories, barware, art, rugs and more. “We buy things we would like in our own homes,” Laurie explains.

Bamboo & Foo is located at 2000B Alden Road — the smaller builder next to the Antique Center. It’s open Wednesday – Saturday, 11am – 5pm.

B HOME

Designer Todd Bennett created a bright and airy space on Edgewater Drive in College Park to display and sell “thoughtful goods for the home.” B Home offers a curated selection of home and lifestyle goods — great for gifting or to keep — including books, barware, entertaining items, glassware, home accents, specialty foods and more in a beautiful and purposeful setting.

Todd lives in College Park and always wanted to open a retail store in the neighborhood, showcasing items and brands he’s discovered as an interior designer. Opening in September 2021, it’s been a rollercoaster, but Todd is excited about the possibilities and the other retailers that have filled spaces along Edgewater Drive. He also has an online store at shopbhome.com

Business Is Blooming!

OLIVE GAYE

Olive Gaye, founder of GenCare Resources, provides focused, decisive and innovative leadership within the healthcare field. For more than a decade, GenCare Resources has provided compassionate clinical care to individuals of all ages. A desire to support the aging and provide them with dignity in their later years was the catalyst for Olive to venture into the healthcare arena. Olive further extended the GenCare platform to include GenCare Kids, a medical daycare for children with complex healthcare needs. Olive continues to embrace her personal story and leverage it to help shape the lives of other women who are actively pursuing their dreams and passions as a highly sought-after motivational speaker and storyteller.

HOW IS YOUR BUSINESS BLOOMING?

GenCare Resources is blooming with the growth of its Prescribed Pediatric Extended Care (PPEC) division. GenCare Kids PPEC is our pride and joy as it provides medical care to pediatric patients in a preschool setting. The number of children that now attend has doubled in the past year.

We have been fortunate to work with excellent pediatric offices, therapists and case managers, while providing exceptional care to these medically complex children. Our relationship with the pediatric community is growing as well. We have participated in events with Sunshine Foundation and Nathaniel’s Hope, and are currently collaborating with the March of Dimes to provide toiletries to the moms and dads in the NICU. Our desire has been to support these wonderful organizations as an extension of our passion for children.

Our in-home care division continues to bloom. In the past year we have seen tremendous growth in the support of non-critical patients in the home care setting. The care we have been able to bring into patient homes allows for caregivers to work, take care of personal business, and take respite from their ongoing responsibilities. Our Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) continues its strong growth trajectory in providing in-home support to numerous caregivers with special needs children.

The GenCare team of medical and non-medical professionals continues to sow seeds of hope as they bring care to those in need. Embracing the core values of providing care with dignity and respect and treating others as they would like to be treated is of the essence of the organization. GenCare hopes its seeds are cultivated as an opportunity to multiply its impact with others.

Olive is wearing an Elliatt Shannon dress, Shu Shop Georgia heels and drop earrings from Tuni, Park Avenue, Winter Park.

LAURA DULAY

Laura Dulay began her career in beauty as a makeup artist and stylist on shoots for a commercial photographer. She spent years traveling the world, freelancing for major brands, before opening her namesake Salon Dulay in 2012. The business thrived under her leadership, and she opened two more locations in the Orlando area in 2020. Laura continues to grow her business, and is on her way to becoming an educator, using her skills and knowledge to teach other owners how to grow leaders in their salons.

HOW IS BUSINESS BLOOMING?

When I opened Salon Dulay in Windermere in 2012, I fulfilled my lifelong dream of becoming a salon owner. Since then, I’ve nurtured my business and watched it thrive in the Orlando community. Three years ago, I opened two more locations in Mills 50 District and Doctor Phillips. Between the three salons, Salon Dulay clients have a location convenient to them and we’re able to employ 75-plus people.

To keep our stylists on trend and provide a luxury experience for our guests, we have a huge focus on education at Salon Dulay. Every year, I bring in a celebrity stylist to teach the latest cutting and coloring techniques in addition to our regular in-house education. Our team members travel across the country for a wide variety of classes, including leadership seminars and conferences for our management team. Our front desk team is trained to the highest customer service standards, and we’re constantly evolving and growing to provide the best salon experience in Orlando.

This year, we’re doing a renovation at our flagship Windermere location, and we’ve added Aveda Scalp Solutions to all our salons’ menus. More and more, we’re seeing clients who need help with aging or thinning hair. Now we have a treatment for scalp health. Healthier scalps grow healthier hair. At Salon Dulay, we thrive when our clients thrive, and we’re looking forward to our best year yet in 2023.

Laura is wearing a Deloreta Charro dress, Deepa Gurnani Swan earrings and Roxana large stud bag from ShopModa, Winter Garden Village at Fowler Groves.

KELLY MCFALL

Kelly McFall is the Profit Center Manager of Artisan Kitchen and Bath Gallery on Designer Row in Winter Park. She lives in Lake Mary with her longtime partner, Bob Baske, and her cat, Jax. Kelly came to Florida in November 2016 to manage Artisan after their opening in August of that year. Kelly serves as a trustee for the Winter Park Chamber of Commerce, member of the Centennial Host committee, events chair for Florida Executive Women, vice president of the Central Florida Chi Omega Alumni Association, and member of the 2023 Seniors First High Tea & Hats committee.

HOW IS BUSINESS BLOOMING?

With a focus on the latest and greatest, Artisan Kitchen and Bath Gallery is a cutting-edge showroom featuring all leading manufacturers with both the latest trends and technology available for today’s homes. I also work at keeping my team of professional plumbing consultants here in the showroom up to date on the trends and technology. With a combined experience of 60-plus years, they bring a vast knowledge to assure that your experience here at AKGB is award winning.

In 2023, we welcome new Spring Retro colors from The Bold Look of Kohler. Bringing back their Peachblow and Spring Green, this year promises to be very stylish. Four bathroom trends in 2023 that we are excited about are Farmhouse Evolved, Japandi, Grandmillennial and Curated Maximalism, which will include fixtures, lighting, furniture and more. While chrome is always a tried-and-true finish, golds, matte black and titanium are taking the kitchen and bath world by storm for 2023. Want a freestanding bathtub the same color as your favorite flower? It is blooming here at Artisan. Let your imagination run wild, and we will bring that to life!

With the honor of winning the 2022 Small Business of the Year, presented by the Winter Park Chamber of Commerce, AKBG will never rest on their laurels but strive to do even more in the coming years. Please join us to see how you can enjoy a spa bath as well as many great options to take your kitchen to the next level. My team and I look forward to sharing our knowledge and skills to assist in creating customers’ dream homes.

Kelly is wearing a Hemingway maxi dress, Alanis double band slides, Judy pearl drop earrings, Sabrina 7-pearl choker, Luxe Globe beaded bracelets, Pisco Punch pearl bracelet, and Bella Bombon tote, all from COCO Indigo, Hannibal Square, Winter Park.

EMILY DOWLING WILLIAMS

The woman behind several Florida-based lifestyle concepts, spanning interior design, fine jewelry, and tabletop, Emily Dowling Williams is an entrepreneur and tastemaker known for fusing her business mindset with an eye for beautiful design. Emily extends her passion for living beautifully through her Winter Park-area businesses: The Grove (apparel, home goods and gifts), Be On Park (fine jewelry) and Clementine (wedding registry, tableware and home accessories). With an extensive background in retail and apparel, Emily creates and fosters businesses that add a little extra something to Central Florida, providing the area greater access to high-design and a curated collection of luxury offerings.

HOW IS BUSINESS BLOOMING?

Emily takes a new approach to buying and merchandising at Be On Park, adopting the belief that fine jewelry should be worn and enjoyed every day — not just tucked away in a jewelry box for a special occasion. Thus, the “Exceptional Everyday Luxury” mantra was born and is reflected throughout Be On Park’s beautiful designs, fine art and gifts.

Adding to the splendor of color, Emily gravitates toward vibrant, beautiful jewels that keep Be On Park regulars checking in with what’s “New & Now.” In addition to the Be classics, Emily has welcomed incredibly talented jewelry designers into the store, including: Kwiat, Fred Leighton, Piranesi, Emily P. Wheeler, Suzanne Kalan, Marika Desert Gold, Shy Creation, Stephanie Albertson, M. Spalten, Sutra, Sydney Evan, Orly Marcel, Spinelli Kilcollin, and Jane Taylor. Additionally, spring is in full bloom at Be On Park with fun upcoming events in-store. Updates are shared on Instagram (@beonpark), including an upcoming “Spring Cleaning” event where guests are invited to bring in existing jewelry for reimagining the design or simply styling pieces with unexpected combinations. Join in on April 21 for a very special set of trunk shows featuring Kwiat jewelry, Stephen Wilson art, and clothing and gifts from The Grove WP. Please reach out to be@beonpark.com for more information or to be added to the guest list.

Emily is wearing J. Society vegan leather quilted moto jacket, and a feather skirt and tee from The Grove, Pennsylvania Avenue, Winter Park; Piranesi diamond feather earrings, John Apel raw turquoise beaded necklace, Oscar Heyman Orange Sapphire and diamond ring, and JB Star bands: cushion diamond eternity band alongside a pink sapphire and diamond eternity band, all from Be On Park, Park Avenue, Winter Park.

SARAH MAROTTA GELTZ

Sarah Marotta Geltz is a shareholder in the Cornerstone Law Firm in Winter Springs, where she lives with her husband, Tim, and their soccer-loving son, Ben. She focuses her practice on transactional business law, estate planning, asset protection and strategic consulting. In addition to legal representation, community focus is a “cornerstone” of her life. Sarah is driven to give back to the Central Florida community, and she supports several local charities focusing on at-risk women and children, and currently serves on the board for Embrace Families Solutions.

HOW IS BUSINESS BLOOMING?

This past year was transformative for me and my business goals. Maybe it was my impending 50th birthday or just continuing to shake off pandemic fatigue but change was inevitable. Big decisions are hard; they force you to look at what you are doing and acknowledge what is not working. Going all in on real change and real growth takes commitment. I was very open about where I was falling short and acknowledging what needed to change. Committing to the change led to opportunity in all areas of my life.

My goal has always been to build something great and lasting, something to be proud of. Finding a way to help others solve their problems is the best part of my legal career. By refocusing, putting in the work, and acting even when it was uncomfortable, I was able to step into a new role pretty seamlessly. My business partner, Jason O’Neal, and I were able to rebrand, capitalize on our strengths, and quickly see the rewards outweighing the risk in the launch of our new joint venture.

Goals are outcomes and outcomes can’t always be controlled. Success can lead to slumps. The process is where the magic is — what you are doing, how you are doing it, and WHY you are doing it? Remembering that magic and controlling my controllables is the biggest driver in my professional growth.

Sarah is wearing a Free People Yellow Springs jumpsuit, Mestiza Clay bangles and Kentucky Boater hat from The House on Lang, Mills 50 District, Orlando.

ANSLEY SCHRIMSHER

Dora Mae Jewelry, a distinctive line of boho glam jewels with both vintage joy and modern magic, was born when designer Ansley Schrimsher discovered her grandmother, Dora Mae Pemberton’s, collection of antique jewelry. Inspired to update her grandmother’s collection of amazing but outdated antiques with current styles and modern materials, Ansley created the one-of-akind jewelry line in 2008. Since then, she has hosted workshops, fashion shows, and recreated thousands of pieces of antique jewelry.

HOW IS BUSINESS BLOOMING?

As an artist and designer, I’ve always known how to create jewelry. (I hit 35,000 one-of-a-kind pieces this year!) But it wasn’t until about 18 months ago that I started to understand how to create a business! I knew enough instinctually to get Dora Mae to the beautiful place it was, and I am so grateful for that season, but some major life changes caused this shift in me to step into equal roles of artist and businesswoman. Dora Mae Jewelry continues to evolve and reinvent itself in the same ways it has for the last 15 years, while keeping true to our two main core values of authentic personal expression and joyful transformation.

One exciting new adventure is the expansion of our fine jewelry line. Our customers have grown up with us and are ready to celebrate bigger events like engagements, anniversaries and career milestones with more significant jewelry pieces.

Business is also blooming with permanent jewelry, the industry’s hottest trend. We’ve made it “Dora Mae” by adding a selection of vintage charms that allows people to customize and create a one-of-a-kind piece. “Zapping” is a pain-free process of laser welding chain directly to your wrist, ankle or neck (the pieces can be cut off and reattached with relative ease).

Finally, and perhaps most significant, is our expansion into Creativity Workshops. They are by far our most joy-filled experience, whether people bring in their own heirlooms to re-create or decide to design a new heirloom to pass down to generations.

Ansley is wearing an Olivia James The Label duster, Paige Martini shorts and Dolce Vita Toyah sneakers from Monkee’s of Winter Park, Hannibal Square. All accessories are from Ansley’s line, Dora Mae Jewelry.

painting with petals

by Karen LeBlanc photos from the 2022 event by Juliet Romeo Photography

Lisa Spears and Laurie Stephens, Bamboo & Foo

Art in Bloom at Orlando Museum of Art Showcases Scenstational Works by Floral Designers at the Annual Fundraiser

The Orlando Museum of Art transforms into a fragrant, floral spectacle for three days in March during its annual fundraiser Art in Bloom. The festival of fine arts and flowers pairs floral designers with museum artworks for artistic renderings painted with petals. The Council of 101 hosts Art in Bloom as one of two museum fundraisers, including the Festival of Trees in the fall.

Art in Bloom takes place March 24 through March 26 at the Orlando Museum of Art with a mix of social events and famous-name guest speakers, including talks by renowned interior designer Amanda Lindroth and author and French impressionist painter Jill Steenhuis.

the Council 101 members put their time and hearts into this event. Whether you are interested in design, antiques, lifestyle products, or fresh picks from our outdoor market, there is something for everyone,” says Linda Cegelis, president of the Council of 101.

Art in Bloom originated as an antique and garden show in 1983. Since then, it has evolved to encompass floral designers and highly respected dealers offering an array of antiques, paintings, jewelry, porcelain, vintage collectibles, and much more. Floral works of art also extend to the tabletop, where talented designers will create tablescapes on view.

Bobby Belanger, Flower No. 5

Colleen Doyle, Sweet Pea Design Collection

“We anticipate up to 30 floral designers who we select in a curated process. The Council 101 members are enmeshed in the floral community, working with floral designers in our personal and professional lives. Those relationships bring together these talented florists and artists for the event,” explains Art In Bloom Event Chairwoman Stacy Jennings.

“Each floral designer chooses a piece of art that is meaningful to them from the Orlando Museum of Art’s permanent collection and current exhibitions. They spend time with the art, learn about it, return to their studios, and interpret it with flowers,” Linda adds.

Interior designer and entrepreneur Amanda Lindroth headlines the event on Friday, March 24, at a VIP champagne brunch, and as a guest speaker following the brunch. Amanda lives in Nassau and owns interior design stores in Palm Beach and Charleston, South Carolina, where she sells her home collection. Her signature style embodies a breezy sophistication expressed in vibrant layers of texture and color.

French impressionist painter Jill Steenhuis, author of the book Art, Soul, & Destiny, An Artist’s Journey from America to Provence, is the guest of honor at a VIP champagne brunch on Saturday morning, March 25, and will offer live painting demonstrations from 11am to 2pm. She teaches

a drawing class using pastels on Sunday, March 26, focused on artistic expression.

The action-packed event includes antique verbal appraisals for $10 per item. “If you collect antiques, you can bring two of your prized items on Saturday or Sunday from 12-2pm and receive a professional valuation,” Stacy says.

Visitors also enjoy daily musical performances by pianists and harpists while shopping at the event’s pop-up shops, Farmer’s Market, and dining at the cafe.

Suspense is building for the Mystery Home Tour, an event highlight that remains a secret until guests arrive to tour it. “Someone in the community will open up their home, inviting Art in Bloom guests

in small group tours by bus to tour the residence and learn about the homeowner’s art and antique collections,” Linda shares. During the Mystery Home Tour, docents in each room will serve as guides providing insight and commentary.

Orlando Health Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies is this year’s title sponsor for Art in Bloom, which will open daily from 10am to 5pm, March 24-26. The price of admission is $20 per adult and $12 for children ages 3-12, military, firsts responders and individuals 60-plus. All special events require additional ticket purchases, including talks, classes, and the Mystery Home Tour. Learn more at omart.org/events/art-in-bloom

Richard Streitler & Brian Joyce, Flourish Productions

Cathy Cascio and Joanie Stoddard, Tiny Orchid Co.

Andie Muller, The Flower Studio

The Morgans: Longtime Philanthropists Find

A New Passion

For the past several decades, Shelly and Todd Morgan have immersed themselves in philanthropic endeavors. Whether personally or through their successful company, Comprehensive Energy Services, spearheading efforts — along with their employees — to support such organizations as AdventHealth, Now Matters More Foundation, Canine Companions for Independence, Universal Orlando Foundation, After School All Stars, Seniors First, and Seminole State College Foundation, philanthropy is deeply embedded in their DNA.

Philanthropy is important to me because it is one of the pillars on which Todd and I founded our company, Comprehensive Energy Services (CES). The power of giving back is our philosophy at CES. Giving back to the community and pitching in for the common good has always been a part of Comprehensive Energy Services’ culture and reflects a company-wide mission that literally reshapes lives. Having just celebrated our 30th anniversary, CES has supported local charities by giving hundreds of thousands of dollars back to the community which has afforded us tremendous opportunities. As we embrace year 31 of Comprehensive Energy Services, we do not just focus on the exciting projects that help to shape our state’s direction, but by zeroing in even further on the life-changing philanthropic initiatives that shape our state’s character,” Shelly says.

A few years ago, the couple was introduced to a new organization, the Orlandobased Silk Road Wine Foundation that was founded by Yanick Arakelov. Yanick was born in the country of Georgia and came to the United States when he was 13. He served four years active duty and continues to serve as a major in the U.S. Army Reserves. His partner, Barry Greer, served

as a firefighter and paramedic for 15 years.

“Todd's great uncle, Alexander “Sasha” Kartveli, born in Tbilisi, Georgia, became the leading aeronautical engineer of his time and was founder of Republic Aviation. He inspired Todd to pursue his professional direction as an engineer. When I first learned about the Silk Road Wines Foundation and Wine for Warriors Gala, I saw an opportunity to support an initiative

through gifts to nonprofits that serve those heroes including Florida-based Tunnel to Towers Foundation and Wounded Warriors Support Foundation. She will continue to be active and involved with the planning, logistics and donations for future fundraising galas.

from a country where the building blocks of my husband’s career stemmed. I knew I had to dig deeper as to ways in which I could be involved,” she explains.

Another connection for the Morgans is Todd’s father, Arthur Morgan, who was a NYC volunteer fireman and 9/11 first responder. Shelly now serves on the board of the organization that has a mission to support veterans, allies and first responders

“In 2021, on the 20th anniversary of the September 11th attacks, the Silk Road Wine Foundation held its first Wine for Warriors Gala to raise money in honor of our military, first responders and brothersin-arms who continue to make the supreme sacrifice for our freedom. The inaugural gala was such a success, raising more than $50,000, that it was repeated in 2022. In addition to supporting first responders and U.S. military veterans, we were able to raise money to support the Let Us Do Good Village, a project led by the Tunnel to Towers Foundation in Land O’ Lakes, Florida. More than 100 homes will be built for our nation’s most catastrophically injured service members and fallen first responder families who leave behind young children,” Shelly continues.

As the Morgans celebrate CES’s 31 years in business, they vow to continue doing good in the community and beyond while also encouraging their 350+ employees to do the same.

Alexander “Sasha” Kartveli

Todd & Shelly Morgan