Issuu

A P R I L 2 02 1

At home with Detroit Pistons Coach, Dwane Casey and family

LI F E + C U LTU R E H OW SU P P O R T I N G LO CAL IS M O RE I M P O R TAN T T HAN E VER

31 CELEBRATING

YEARS

Celebrating 31 years of quality, integrity and value. Visit us for a complimentary consultation with our certified rug specialists Kamran & Kristi. They will help you find a rug that anchors your room, unites your colors together and give a timeless elegance that invites you to sit down and enjoy your success in life.

248.723.8888 | BirminghamDesignStudio.com | 808 S. Old Woodward Ave. | Birmingham

Fine Persian & Modern Rugs. Luxury Furnishings. Inspired Interior Design

36800 Woodward Ave. Suite 115 Bloomfield Hills 248 766 2275 HunterRobertsHomes.com

LIFESTYLE LETTER

APRIL 2021 PUBLISHER

Ali Kramer | ali.kramer@lifestylepubs.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Karin Eisenberg | karin.eisenberg@lifestylepubs.com

Celebrating a Fresh Start & Spring! HELLO, I WANTED TO INTRODUCE MYSELF AS THE NEW OWNER & PUBLISHER OF BIRMINGHAM LIFE MAGAZINE. At Birmingham Life, we’re inspired by the local community and hope this magazine inspires you too! We’re thrilled to

AD DESIGNER

Evan Deuvall L AYO UT DESIGNER

Jayme Emery CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Addy Seligman Katz

be your source for all things local here in the Birmingham & Bloomfield community. As your publisher, I am passionate about bringing stories behind the people and places that matter most to you--our readers, for whom we produce this magazine each month. We will celebrate remarkable fellow residents, exceptional cuisine, all the retail genius among us, residential architectural and home innovation, business leaders/ owners, local community support & giving, expert advice, trends and more. This past summer, I relocated back to Metro Detroit after 23 years of living in the cities of Atlanta, Washington D.C., and most recently outside of Philadelphia. After integrating myself as part of these three communities, I can whole-heartedly confirm the Birmingham/Bloomfield community is a magical place brimming with brilliant minds, ingrained in creativity, innovation, style, substance and opportunity fueled with a vibrant community spirit. We are all lucky to live the Birmingham Life. Thank you for inviting us into our homes, sharing your lives with us-we are looking forward to exploring our community with you each and every month. Enjoy the crisp new spring air outside and we can't wait to see you around town! Cheers to a fresh start for everyone!

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

With gratitude,

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

Ali Kramer, Publisher

Instagram: @birminghamlifemagazine Facebook: @birminghamlifemagazine 514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

ON THE COVER

SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JUSTIN W. MILHOUSE WWW.JMILHOUSE.COM @J.MILHOUSE FCD, LLC 4

Birmingham Life | April 2021

CityLifestyle.com/BirminghamMI

Proverbs 3:5-6 Birmingham Life™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Birmingham area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Birmingham Life™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

Helping You Secure Your

Financial Future Local | Experienced | Multi-Generational Independent Fiduciary

Financial Guidelines

What We Do InvestWise Financial, LLC., is built on a solid foundation of excellent client service and in-depth market knowledge.

Let us help you

Our team of financial planners have over 20 years of experience. For over 30 years our team has served the greater Birmingham Community and beyond.

plan for tomorrow and live for today. 3883 Telegraph Rd.

Specialties

Bloomfield Hills,

Financial Planning // Proactive Tax Reduction // Estate Planning Team Approach // College Planning // Social Security Maximization // Medicare Securities offered through Registered Representatives of Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a broker-dealer, member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services offered through Cambridge Investment Advisors, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser. Investwise Financial and Cambridge are not affiliated.

(248) 594-8113

InvestwiseFinancial.com

MI 48302 (248) 594-8113

INSIDE THE ISSUE APRIL 2021

FEATURES 16 My House of Style Supporting local businesses

24 The Coach around town “I love the area and would love to put permanent roots here”

28 Spring is in air “We can bring spring into our homes with beautiful flowers” Says, Jeffrey Jucewicz

30 Only Honesty Grows a Relationship With a progression of time comes

28 24

a progression of authenticity in all relationships.

16 DEPARTMENTS

Lifestyle Letter

Good Times

Around Town

Local’s Choice

Trend Setter

Locally Owned

20 Now Open 22 Locals Only 28 Local Limelight 30 Parting Thoughts 32 Lifestyle Calendar 34 Our Contributors

GOOD TIMES 1.

Detroit Crime Commission, “Sound The Siren” On January 21 the Detroit Crime Commission held a virtual event, “Sound the Siren, Covid Stopped Everything but NOT Human Trafficking." Hosted by Simon Shakhet and Veronica Meadows and co-chaired by Amy Ben-Ezra and Renee Roth, it raised over $25,000. Survivors and law enforcement shared their stories and viewers learned how human trafficking has actually increased during the pandemic.

Birmingham Life | April 2021

Le Shoppe Too Bloomfield Hills resident Terri Stearn, is the founder of Detroit Fine Art Appraisals. Terri’s expertise recently expanded to Le Shoppe Auction House, where their 10th auction was held. The auction had over 80 countries registered and hundreds of bidders. The Lichtenstein was the top producer. Other items of interest included works by Hanna Stiebel, Picasso, Dali and Agam detroitfaa.com LeShoppeToo.com

New Patient Special!

Let Our Family Take Care of Yours Porcelain Crowns & Veneers ∙ Invisalign ∙ GLO Whitening ∙ Implants Preventative Childrens Dentistry ∙ TMJ Therapy Dental Cleanings for the Entire Family ∙ Complete & Partial Dentures *All services under Enhanced Infection Control and Patient Protection Protocols

20% OFF Invisalign® Limited Time ONLY

Rohit Arora D.D.S. & Purvi Arora D.D.S.

Call Us at 248.645.5222 or visit BinghamFarmsDentist.com 31000 Telegraph Rd., Ste. 160 Bingham Farms, MI 48025

CityLifestyle.com/BirminghamMI

AROUND TOWN out in the local community and having a place to shop, relax, and enjoy the experience is more important than ever. Their brands include Koral, Beyond Yoga, Vuori, Splits59, ultracor, Spiritual Gangster, Sugarboo to name a few.

fAB’RIK fab'rik is the first one of its kind in the state of Michigan. Located in the heart of Birmingham, fab’rik opened by sisters Carrie Sofikitis and Melissa Mistrot. This boutique caters to girls heading out for a night on the town all the way to mom grabbing something for herself. It’s a one

LINDA DRESNER

stop shopping experience with clothes, shoes,

After 45 years of fashion retailing, Linda Dresner

and accessories catering to women. fab'rik deliv-

has retired. The Birmingham store was a pillar in

ers high style with heart without the sticker shock.

the community. She has always been a fashion icon. Linda Dresner was not just a store, it was an experience. Her unparalleled taste clothed women in championed brands from designers around the world. Birmingham will never be the same.

STEEL ANGEL Steele Angel is a lifestyle boutique carrying active, athleisure apparel, home accessories, and more. “Where Style Meets Your Active Life” is their mission. Two dear friends, Staci and Wendy, spent years asking, “what if” questions

WARNER BRINGS FAMILY LAW FOCUS TO BLOOMFIELD HILLS

over a glass of wine while watching their kids

Since 1931, Warner Norcross + Judd LLP has

play. What if we could create an incredible shop-

been providing client-focused, legal and business

ping experience for the active person, a one-stop

counsel to clients. This April, Warner is adding

shop offering curated products and unparalleled

an office located at 40701 Woodward Avenue,

service? And now, in this new way of living, getting

Bloomfield Hills. It will feature a family law and

Birmingham Life | April 2021

divorce practice headed by Nazli Sater and Roquia

Birmingham Restaurant Week event. In a year

Draper. Sater has over 30 years experience han-

that has been anything but normal, the tradition

dling complex family law matters. Draper has

continued with an all-inclusive format, creative

extensive experience in both family law and busi-

ideas, community support and a big boost

ness contract disputes, domestic relations and

from the Birmingham Shopping District - over

divorces, executive compensation packages, busi-

$40,000 to be exact.

ness valuations and complex asset division. Both have received numerous honors and awards.

2021 DECORATIVE-MUNICIPAL AWARD The Michigan Concrete Association announced that Birmingham’s Maple Road construction is the new winner of the 2021 Decorative-Municipal Award. The reconstruction was finished in the fall which completed the second phase of the three phase project that is attending to some of Birmingham’s oldest infrastructures and improving amenities in downtown Birmingham. The city was awarded a $700,000 grant.

BIRMINGHAM RESTAURANT WEEK Downtown Birmingham restaurants felt the support of the community during the 16th annual

Would you like to get in touch with us? We would love to hear from you! Contact us at CityLifestyle. com/BirminghamMI using the Get In Touch link and let us know what you think. CityLifestyle.com/BirminghamMI

LOCAL’S CHOICE

SUPPORTING

LOCAL DOESN’T IT SEEM LIKE YESTERDAY THAT WE WERE RUNNING AROUND TOWN WITHOUT MASKS AND HAND SANITIZER, MEETING FRIENDS FOR LUNCH AND RUNNING ERRANDS FEELING ALL CAREFREE? Regular family outings and social gatherings were the norm, and the word “pandemic” was saved mostly for those scary movies we’d see from time to time. But then it hit. And it hit hard. We all learned fast that Covid-19 was not only a virus that could make us sick, but a virus that could hurt our economic system. While the coronavirus is causing a nationwide (and world) economic slowdown, it has hit some local businesses particularly hard -- some that have been around for years. Today, in these most challenging times, these businesses need our support more than ever. ARTICLE KARIN EISENBERG

Birmingham Life | April 2021

Opening in April

Bloomfield Hills Office 40701 Woodward Avenue | Bloomfield Hills, MI

Nazli G. Sater

Roquia K. Draper

Practice Chair | Partner 248.784.5178 nsater@wnj.com

Attorney | Partner 248.784.5081 rdraper@wnj.com

FA M I LY L AW

wnj.com

Warner’s Managing Partner Douglas Dozeman is responsible for the contents of our advertising. Contact: ddozeman@wnj.com or 616-752-2148. Please read our full privacy policy on our website.

TREND SETTER

The shelves are adorned with gifts for any occasion

“THE FUTURE HOLDS NOTHING BUT LIMITLESS POSSIBILITIES FOR THIS DOWNTOWN BIRMINGHAM MAINSTAY.” 16

Birmingham Life | April 2021

SUPPORT LOCAL

ARTICLE KARIN EISENBERG | PHOTOGRAPHY ADDY SELIGMAN KATZ

Diane offers houseware perfect for weddings or showers

OF STYLE

MY HOUSE

MY HOUSE OF STYLE WAS JUST AN IDEA IN 2005

find handbags and totes, cutting-edge ceramic art and the latest

WHEN DIANE HARRIS WAS TRYING TO FIGURE OUT

in health and wellness items. Diane keeps the atmosphere exciting

HER NEXT STEP AFTER LEAVING A LONG-TIME JOB.

and fresh, and always does her best to support local charities and

After spending decades at successful businesses dealing

the overall community. Her latest project is launching a new online

with American crafts and jewelry, she knew she was ready

shopping site, which you can visit at MyHouseOfStyle.com. The

to strike out on her own with My House Of Style. The lovely

future holds nothing but limitless possibilities for this downtown

shop offers affordable handmade and quality jewelry from

Birmingham mainstay. She offers curbside and all other Covid

an exciting roster of new artists, as well as unique home

safety protocols to ensure safety.

décor items and personal accessories. Discerning cus-

tomers love My House Of Style for its eclectic wares and

574 North Old Woodward Ave. Birmingham

one-of-a-kind finds, from beautifully made rings, bracelets

Hours of operation are Tuesday-Saturday 11 am-5 pm.

and necklaces to exquisitely crafted baby gifts. You’ll also

Call 248-594-7776. CityLifestyle.com/BirminghamMI

LOCALLY OWNED

1794 W. Maple Road,Birmingham Owners: Amy and André Douville

“VOTED BEST DRY CLEANERS IN BIRMINGHAM, DOUGLAS HAS TWO LOCATIONS THAT PROVIDE EXCELLENT CUSTOMER SERVICE ALONG WITH THE HIGHEST-QUALITY STANDARDS OF CLEANING.” 18

Birmingham Life | April 2021

ARTICLE KARIN EISENBERG PHOTOGRAPHY ADDY SELIGMAN KATZ

900 Old Woodward Birmingham

Douglas

CLEANERS SUPPORT LOCAL

DOUGLAS CLEANERS OF BIRMINGHAM, A FAMILY-OWNED

have a master tailor on-site at the Woodward location. During the

BUSINESS SINCE 1949, WAS PURCHASED BY AMY AND

pandemic, they are offering free porch pickup and delivery, as well

ANDRE DOUVILLE ON JUNE 1, 2019. Voted Best Dry Cleaners in

as curbside service.

Birmingham, Douglas has two locations that provide excellent customer service along with the highest-quality standards of cleaning.

Hours of operation at the Woodward location are Monday-Friday 7

The team at Douglas Cleaners handles all types of dry cleaning and

am-5 pm and Saturday 9 am-3 pm, 248-642-6230 while the Maple

laundry needs, as well as household items, bedding and draperies.

store is open Monday-Friday 8 am-5 pm and Saturday 9 am-3 pm.

They also offer wedding dress preservation and free storage, and

248-644-2400 or visit douglas-cleaners.com

CityLifestyle.com/BirminghamMI

NOW OPEN

LEE ’ S

SPECIALT Y

SUPPORT LOCAL ARTICLE KARIN EISENBERG | PHOTOGRAPHY ADDY SELIGMAN KATZ

Birmingham Life | April 2021

“Lee’s, one of our “shop local hot spots,” is very much still open for business.”

F YOU’VE EVER PLANNED A PARTY – OR

BEEN INVITED TO ONE – CHANCES ARE YOU’RE VERY FAMILIAR WITH BLOOMFIELD TOWNSHIP’S FAVORITE SOURCE FOR FINE Solange Messelian has been the face of Lee’s Specialty for almost 40 years

INVITATIONS OF ALL KIND. Lee’s Specialty is not just about the amazing staff, warm atmosphere, stunning invitations and beautiful gift selection, but also the incredible owner, Solange Messelian, who has been the face of the business for almost 40 years. She and her incredible staff have been servicing the area with a skilled expertise like no other – but the slew of cancelled weddings, parties and special events during the pandemic has really taken a toll on Lee’s. (On a happy note, David Portnoy from The Barstool Fund recently surprised Solange with a FaceTime call and a donation to help during this unprecedented time.) Lee’s, one of our “shop local hot spots,” is very much still open for business, offering curbside pickups and appointments for all your invitation and gift needs. Hours of operation are Monday-Friday 9:30 am-5 p.m. and Saturdays by appointment, Visit LeesSpecialty. com or call 248-646-6700.

CityLifestyle.com/BirminghamMI

rear ends

LOCALS ONLY

ARTICLE KARIN EISENBERG PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED BY REAR ENDS

SUPPORT LOCAL

REAR ENDS HAS BEEN THE LOCAL SECOND-GENER-

Rear Ends thriving during the pandemic: text or zoom appoint-

ATION “GO-TO BOUTIQUE” FOR NEARLY 43 YEARS.

ments, honest and personal shopping, curbside pickup, local

After retiring and focusing on their Bloomfield Hills store,

delivery, and free shipping on purchases over $100. Though

Mark and Elaine Carps have gracefully handed the wheel

online shopping is on the rise, Ariana notes that it lacks that

to daughter Ariana. Having her at the helm means she’s

special connectivity and personal experience of a visit to the

still carrying on the family ideals that her parents created

store. Rear ends has always had the community’s back, now

from the very beginning. “We’d rather have someone leave

it’s time for them to show up for us.

emptyhanded and return again than have someone leave with something that doesn’t fit to never return again,” says

Hours of operation are Monday-Saturday 10 am-5 pm. Visit

Ariana. It’s clear she’s doing everything possible to keep

ShopRearEnds.com or call 248-626-4333.

Ariana Carps and Elaine Blumenfeld

Birmingham Life | April 2021

Ariana Carps hanging out in front of the store

CityLifestyle.com/BirminghamMI

THE C OAC H A ROU N D T OW N

Dwane Casey poses in the press room with the Coach of the Year award for his work with the Toronto Raptures at the NBA awards in 2018

“I LOVE THE AREA AND WOULD LOVE TO PUT PERMANENT ROOTS HERE” Casey in 2018

Birmingham Life | April 2021

ARTICLE KARIN EISENBERG PHOTOGRAPHY JUSTIN W. MILHOUSE

Brenda and Dwane Casey

I WAS RECENTLY GIVEN THE INCREDIBLE OPPOR-

Q: ARE YOU EXCITED ABOUT THE DIRECTION THE

TUNITY TO INTERVIEW, BLOOMFIELD HILLS RESI-

TEAM IS GOING IN?

DENT, DWANE CASEY, THE COACH OF THE DETROIT

A: Yes, I really am. I have very high aspirations with the

PISTONS – AND AS AN ADDED BONUS, HIS BEAUTI-

rebranding of the Pistons. We have young players and high

FUL WIFE, BRENDA, WAS ON SPEAKER, TOO. Coach

energy. Detroit understands what a championship team

Casey is a former NCAA basketball player player and

looks like. We have young kids ready to play with vigor.

coach, having played and coached there for more than a decade before moving on to the NBA. He was previously

Q: WHAT’S THE MOST SURPRISINGLY PLEASANT

the head coach of the Minnesota Timberwolves and the

THING ABOUT BEING IN DETROIT?

Toronto Raptures, with whom he won the NBA Coach of the year in 2018.

A: When Tom Gores sold us on Detroit and what a wonderful place it was to raise a family, we believed him and his

When Dwane was offered the coaching position for

passion for the city. What we have come to realize for our-

the Pistons, neither he nor Brenda needed too much

selves is that metro Detroit and our city Bloomfield Hills,

convincing. Team owner Tom Gores sold both of them

really is the most welcoming family-orientated place. The

on Detroit’s Midwest values, manners and importance

community, neighborhoods and schools have greeted our

of family. Gores also made it clear that he believed

family into the community. We feel at home here and real-

in Casey and trusted that he could turn the Pistons

ize that there’s such diversity in Detroit with such a strong

around with his exemplary coaching skills and knack

work ethic in many fields. It’s a great place.

for developing young talent. I was excited to ask Dwane a few questions in our interview -- and not all about basketball. His upbeat energy was infectious along with his enthusiasm and optimistic approach to the team rebuild.

Q: WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE LOCAL RESTAURANT TO EAT AT OR GET CARRY OUT FROM? A: Salvatore Scallopini is technically Dwane’s favorite restaurant....and pasta bolognese is his favorite meal there....this is a running family joke because anytime we ask Dwane what he wants for dinner this is his answer... every time! (the kids and I have other favorites....but this is hands down Dwane’s favorite) says wife, Brenda. CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/BirminghamMI

THE COACH AROUND TOWN (CONTINUED)

(Photo by Ringo Chiu/Zuma Press/Icon Sportswire

Q: DO YOUR KIDS LIKE LIVING IN DETROIT?

career, but this is the first time (we’ve) purchased

A: They LOVE it! They’ve both made many

a home as opposed to renting in the past decade.

friends in the neighborhood and at school. They’ve been welcomed with open arms. I even

Q: WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE LOCAL

got the chance to help coach my son, Zachary,

SPOT TO CELEBRATE A WIN OR HAVE

with his Bloomfield Hills Little League games. (I

A TEAM MEETING?

had to add that having him coach a Bloomfield

A: Phoenicia.

Hills Little League game was like doing karaoke

I can’t say enough wonderful things about

with Bon Jovi, right?) Just amazing.

the Caseys. They are a beautiful family and a breath of fresh air in our community. At the end

Q: CAN YOU SEE YOURSELF SPENDING THE

of our conversation they said they were lucky to

REST OF YOUR CAREER HERE?

have landed in metro Detroit. I think it is we who

A: My contract with the Pistons is actually for 5 years (the average NBA head coaches’ contract is 3. So I have this season plus two more. Also, we have purchased homes in other cities during my

Birmingham Life | April 2021

are the lucky ones to have them here. Go Pistons!

Why Suffer with Leg Problems? • Board-Certified Vascular Surgeons with 26 Years of unmatched experience. • Recognized vein care experts in the Metro Detroit area. • Emphasizing safety and comfort to deliver minimally invasive techniques.

“I could not be more satisfied with my treatment and care from the moment I walked in through my follow up visits. I found the staff knowable, caring and professional” – L.F. Before

After

Diego Hernandez, MD Vacular Surgeon

Contact Our Office to Schedule an Appointment Today!

(248) 481-2100 | BloomfieldVeinAndVascular.com | 43700 Woodward Avenue Ste. 207 ∙ Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302

GET INSPIRED EAT + DRINK SHOP LOCAL City Lifestyle

YOUR DIGITAL DESTINATION FOR LOCAL LIVING

CityLifestyle.com/BirminghamMI

LOCAL LIMELIGHT

ARTICLE KARIN EISENBERG | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY: JEFFREY FLORAL ARCHITECTURE

ng is in i r the air sp

purple liatrice, flexi grass and tulips

“WE CAN BRING SPRING INTO OUR HOMES WITH BEAUTIFUL FLOWERS” SAYS, JEFFREY JUCEWICZ WITH THE LONGER DAYS AND MELTING SNOW, OUR THOUGHTS BEGIN TO GRAVITATE TOWARDS SPRING. Obviously one of the first things that comes to mind are flowers and looking forward to seeing all the beautiful displays in our yards and around the city. Until that time arrives though, we can bring a bit of Spring into our homes with beautiful Forsythia, Quince and Flowering Cherry branches, not to mention tulips, daffodils and hyacinth.

Birmingham Life | April 2021

In creating a little arrangement for you hour home, try selecting 3 different flowers. Group them individually and cut at 3 different heights then place into a vase to create a look that will be the envy of your friends. You might use stones in a glass vase or even line with a leaf for a very professional look. It’s a winning combination and so much fun to create, enjoy! Jeffrey Jucewicz Jeffrey Floral Architecure 248-439-1011 Jeffrey@jefrreyfloral.com

yellow forsythia, tulips, asiatic lillies

snapdragons, tulips and hyacinth

flowering magnolia and antique hydrangeas

CityLifestyle.com/BirminghamMI

PARTING THOUGHTS

ONLY HONEST Y GROWS A RELATIONSHIP WITH A PROGRESSION OF TIME COMES A PROGRESSION OF AUTHENTICITY IN ALL RELATIONSHIPS.

ARTICLE KARIN EISENBERG PHOTOGRAPHY JUN PINO

Birmingham Life | April 2021

“WHILE I AM A HUGE BELIEVER IN BEING TRUTHFUL, I AL SO FEEL VERY STRONGLY T H A T T I M E A N D C O N S I S T E N C Y ARE A PRELUDE TO E A R N I N G T R U S T . ”

Karin is Birmingham life’s editorial coordinator and a relationship expert and past international blogger

I ALWAYS SAY THAT WHEN IT COMES TO DATING, EVERYONE NEEDS FOUR SEASONS AND A STOMACH FLU TO REALLY GET TO KNOW THE OTHER PERSON. But the truth is that it takes years to really, really get to know someone. I’m not talking about what foods they like or their favorite movies. I’m talking about what’s under the onion layers. You know, the real stuff — from the skeletons to the secrets. The good. The bad.

Reveal 70% slowly followed by the 30% after the relationship is on

And the ugly.

solid and steady ground.

The reality is that we all have many layers that are not readily

Now with that being said, there’s a difference between being straight-

transparent to the naked eye.

forward about what you’re looking for in the relationship itself vs.talking

So, when we meet someone new and we’re all on our best behav-

about family secrets.

ior with only kind pleasantries exchanged, blah, blah, blah, blah-

I encourage people to be straightforward in talking early on about

it’s nearly impossible to know if there is true compatibility until the

relationship “goals.” If you’re looking for marriage and dating someone

relationship is actually tested.

who is not looking for the same thing —well, that relationship is going to

I know many people who stay on best behavior far longer than

have some large obstacles to overcome.

necessary. I equate that little act to a house that has never had

That’s not to say that one can’t catch up to the other eventually, but it’s

to endure a true storm.

important to be honest about what we want out of a relationship so we

If you don’t allow it to downpour, you’ll never see how sturdy

can weed out the ones who are wrong for us — faster than not.

your house is. And if you don’t know how sturdy your house is… Well, chances are you’ll never know how to repair the leaks. In other words, there’s a certain point in every relationship where one must switch from model behavior to being their true selves.

Saying you want something different than what you really want is not going to benefit anyone in the long run and compromising is obviously okay, as long as both parties agree about “the future” and what it looks like. But never lie about who and what your needs are or else the person on the other side of the phone or sitting across the table from you

If you’re in a bad mood, it’s okay.

will never know how to fulfill your needs and you’ll essentially be

If you’re tired, it’s okay.

pulling off a “bait and switch” which doesn’t work for anyone.

If you’re sad, it’s okay.

It’s the same for life.

It’s okay to be you and see how your partner reacts — and

Don’t lie.

vice versa. In fact, I‘ll go even further. It’s CRUCIAL that we find this out.

Don’t pretend. Be authentic in what you want and reveal with time your true self, allow-

With a progression of time comes a progression of authenticity in

ing the relationship to grow organically.

all relationships.

And always remember, a weed in one person’s garden is a flower in

While I am a huge believer in being truthful, I also feel very

another’s. If you’re constantly stumbling across more weeds than flow-

strongly that time and consistency are a prelude to earning trust.

ers,chances are it’s time to either strengthen your gardening skills or

Think 70/30 rule.

simply find a new garden.

CityLifestyle.com/BirminghamMI

APRIL

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

Losing my mother only to find her

BUNNY TRAIL EGG HUNT

an effort to help others. She is best

again, a love letter to her mother she shares her families’ journey in

Bloomer Park 345 John R Road

known for her role in, Father of the

Rochester, Mi 48307

Bride. Visit: jfsspotlightevent.org or

Grab your family and get ready to hit

call: 248-592-2339

the trail searching for hidden eggs! Make sure to wear shoes that can withstand walking in the woods and wear the layers needed to stay warm on your fifteen to twenty minute hunt on the trail. A baby backpack/carrier

16 ROBERT KIDD GALLERY

107 Townsend Street, Birmingham

is suggested for infants. Reservations

6:00-9pm

required: 248-656-4753

Olivia Millershine and her band will be performing at the Robert Kidd

Gallery. She performed last year to rave

EASTER EGG HUNT

tain. Reservations are not necessary.

reviews. With her Stevie Nicks/Jonie Mitchell feel to her, she’s sure to enter-

1589 West Maple Road, Birmingham Mi 48009

The

Birmingham

First

United

Methodist Church is having an Easter Egg hunt on the front lawn for families and children. Masks and Covid

17 KALAMAZOO EARTH DAY FESTIVAL 2021 Bronson Park, Kalamazoo

protocol is required.

Free entry. Perfect for families. Covid

Kim Bowyer: 248-646-6407 Ext 3134

protocol. Bring your family and friends for a day of fun!

3 ROBERT KIDD GALLERY

107 Townsend Street, Birmingham 5:00-9PM

The gallery will have an opening called "GET ARRESTED" featuring the famous people mugshot collection. A photographer will be in attendance and every guest will have the opportunity to have their own mugshot done.

6 LOVE, LOSS AND LIGHT

Would you like to get in touch with us? We would love to hear from

Virtual Event

you! Contact us at CityLifestyle.

A virtual eventing with Kimberly

com/BirminghamMI using the Get

Williams-Paisley as she discusses her

In Touch link and let us know what

new book, Where the light gets in;

you think.

Birmingham Life | April 2021

LUXURY MARKET REPORT Presented by Candice Rich, Luxury Home Specialist

What are the Luxury Home Market trends for Spring/Summer? According to the National Association of Realtors, the 2021 Market will be hot for most of the year! Details that were once considered luxuries are now considered necessities. Many people have rediscovered the joys of expansive single-family homes in locations that offer more space, freedom and less population density. A premium on luxury features like pools, home offices, home gyms, lower-level renovations and large, outdoor entertaining backyards are shaping the luxury market and fueling its sales growth. Renovate vs Turn-key. There are still some consumers that are inclined to renovate their homes to meet their changing needs; however, most buyers on the market are not looking for projects, they want the home move-in ready; this type of home is selling very quickly. Shift in second-home markets. Many affluent luxury consumers own 2nd homes. The flexibility to enjoy the perks of a resort lifestyle on an ongoing basis is favored. The dominant trend is swapping their primary residences for second homes or making them co-primary homes. This trend is here to stay, at least for a few years until the pandemic subsides. Sight-unseen purchases. Technology, such as video conferencing and high-quality property video tours, have allowed many Real Estate brokers to sell homes of great magnitude to buyers who have never set foot on the property; this is especially appealing to relocation buyers.

Exclusive Luxury Sales Over $1 Million Address

Beds Bths SQFT

Price/sqf

DOM

List Price

Sold Price

BIRMINGHAM 1996 WEBSTER 533 BENNAVILLE 480 PLEASANT 2216 MANCHESTER 1095 WILLOW 1188 WASHINGTON 1825 MARYLAND 1383 CEDAR 599 MERRITT LANE 1271 LAKE PARK 1013 WOODLEA 608 STANLEY 1415 SUFFIELD 677 HARMON

4 4 4 5 5 5 5 5 4 5 4 5 6 7

4.1 4.1 3.1 4.2 3.1 5.1 5.1 4.2 4.1 5.1 4.2 5.1 6.2 9.3

2760 3205 3400 3378 4225 3500 3356 3400 1431 4059 4774 4102 5548 9326

$362 $320 $307 $318 $267 $329 $350 $364 $868 $357 $335 $540 $496 $416

36 75 59 21 119 35 24 87 0 11 164 19 183 15

$1,149,900 $1,099,000 $1,100,000 $1,150,000 $1,245,000 $1,175,000 $1,249,900 $1,299,900 $1,242,000 $1,499,000 $1,599,900 $2,299,900 $3,300,000 $4,099,000

$1,000,000 $1,025,000 $1,045,000 $1,075,000 $1,130,000 $1,150,000 $1,175,000 $1,236,000 $1,242,000 $1,450,000 $1,599,000 $2,215,000 $2,750,000 $3,880,000

BLOOMFIELD 720 KENNEBEC 23 PINE GATE 550 YARBORO 514 CHASE 1800 RATHMOR 2010 W VALLEY 325 DUNSTON 45 ORCHARD

5 5 4 5 4 5 3 8

3.2 5.2 4.2 5.2 6.1 5.2 3.3 6.2

3848 5942 5176 5335 6702 8509 6661 11374

$351 $244 $304 $295 $276 $223 $345 $242

11 65 0 48 19 0 44 385

$1,350,000 $1,549,900 $1,575,000 $1,650,000 $1,999,900 $2,300,000 $2,600,000 $3,199,995

$1,350,000 $1,450,000 $1,575,000 $1,575,000 $1,850,000 $1,900,000 $2,300,000 $2,750,000

Experience & Results Candice Rich is a Top Producing Realtor, an accomplished business professional and a skilled negotiator. Her dedication to helping her clients successfully achieve all their real estate needs is proven in her results.

Contact Candice Today! A dynamic marketing plan and effective pricing strategy will be personalized for you to get your home Sold for top dollar!

* A Sample of Recent Luxury Sales in 1 Qtr 2021

D: 248.724.6124

M: 313.218.5300

210 S Old Wooward Ave., Ste 200, Birmingham MI

OUR CONTRIBUTORS

GETTING TO KNOW ALI KRAMER AS THIS IS MY FIRST ISSUE AS PUBLISHER FOR BIRMINGHAM LIFE, I THOUGHT IT WOULD BE APPROPRIATE TO ANSWER A FEW QUESTIONS ABOUT THE MAGAZINE AND MYSELF.

WHERE DID YO U G R O W U P ?

I grew up in Huntington Woods, MI (another special community) and graduated from Michigan State University. The week after college I left for Atlanta to work for Turner

W H AT A R E T H E F I R S T

Broadcasting in marketing, 23 years later, and in a blink of an eye found myself back home. I spent much of my time

T H I N G S T H AT C O M E

working in corporate marketing for large companies. My time in Atlanta, D.C., and Philadelphia were transformative,

T O M I N D W H E N YO U

so many wonderful experiences and relationships built which I am forever grateful.

ARTICLE BYLINE | PHOTOGRAPHY BYLINE

WHY BIRMINGHAM LIFE?

T H I N K O F AT L A N TA , D . C . , A N D P H I L LY ?

Atlanta: The south always has a special place in my heart, it is where I learned to spread my wings as an adult, met my husband, Evan, and had both my children Ariella and Zimry.

Birmingham Life is part of the Lifestyle Publications

D.C.: I remember coming out of CVS and Donald

Family which produces over 100 luxury-community mag-

Rumsfeld (former Secretary of Defense) was just

azines monthly across the county. Ironically, there was

on an evening stroll with his wife. That is a typical

another Lifestyle publication in the town in Philadelphia

D.C. moment.

where I most recently lived. I was so impressed with the

Philadelphia: If you have ever seen the movie Silver

publication, looked forward to getting it in my mailbox

Linings Playbook? It’s a real thing, the passion for the

every month, and experienced first-hand the value it was

Philadelphia Eagles is like no other.

bringing to our community for both the readers and local business partners. As someone that has worked in the online media & technology space, I love that Birmingham Life offers both a print and digital component that is best-in-class. We also pride ourselves on partnering with high-quality and trusted business partners. Oh and obviously, the Birmingham/Bloomfield community is outstanding too!

Birmingham Life | April 2021

A F E W FAVO R I T E MOTTOS: Consistency is Key, You can Do Hard Things, Trust the Process, Empathy is Everything.