Blue Springs, MO February 2026 by City Lifestyle

Love, Right Where We Live

LOVE shows up in so many ways around Blue Springs. It’s not always loud or flashy. Most of the time it’s found in shared moments, familiar places, and making the simple choice to show up for one another.

This community isn’t just where I work. It’s home. It’s where my family lives, where friendships grow through good conversations, and where I’m constantly reminded how special it is to be part of a place that genuinely cares.

Around here, love looks like gathering with friends at Sinclair’s and lingering a little longer than planned because the conversation is just that good. It looks like couples taking intentional time for themselves with a relaxing sauna session at Tru Elements, and it looks like families heading to Indoor Par Fore for a fun-filled scramble, creating memories that matter far more than the score.

That spirit is exactly what this magazine was created to celebrate. These pages are filled with real people, local stories, and the pride that comes from supporting the place we call home. You’ll find creativity, dedication, and a whole lot of heart woven throughout this issue.

As winter begins to loosen its grip, I encourage you to lean into connection. Try something new. Support a local favorite. Make time for the moments, big or small, that bring people together. Because when we choose community, we’re choosing love in its truest form.

Thank you for being here, for supporting this magazine, and for being part of the Blue Springs story. I’m honored to help share it and excited to continue building something meaningful together.

TIFFANY OBERMEYER, PUBLICATION DIRECTOR @BLUESPRINGSCITYLIFESTYLE

February 2026

PUBLISHER

Austin Brewer | austinbrewer@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Katarina Brewer | katarina.brewer@citylifestyle.com

COPY EDITOR

Heather Davis | lovekpie@sbcglobal.net

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Tiffany Obermeyer | tiffany.obermeyer@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Grace Utlaut, Katarina Brewer, Breanna Hicks

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Janie Jones, Nate Chaiprathum, Chance Parker, Makena Adkins, Sarah Buchanan, Megan Cason

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Mary Albers

LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN FEBRUARY 2026

city scene

1: The Smith Family explored the best of London with ease, thanks to expert planning by Castaway Destinations. 2: A holiday social gathering brings friends together while giving back to local hotels. 3: Salon Bellezzio celebrates 21 years of beauty, style, and community. 4: Seasonal cheer fills Keys Health DPC as Dr. DeMarco and his family decorate together. 5: Blue Surf Bay’s Noon Year’s Eve brought big splashes and even bigger smiles. 6: Meyers Funeral Chapel spreads holiday cheer to local first responders who help keep our community safe. 7: Celebrating friendship and birthdays at Indoor Par Fore.

ELIZABETH DONNELL

CASTAWAY DESTINATIONS

MEYERS FUNERAL CHAPEL

KEYS HEALTH DIRECT PRIMARY CARE

TIFFANY OBERMEYER

INDOOR PAR FORE SALON BELLEZZIO

Rotary Club and Community Service League Make a Big Impact

The Rotary Club of Blue Springs partnered with the Community Service League to sort donations collected during Blue Springs School District Community Unity Week. Together, they organized 69,161 items and $9,132 in contributions, which will provide crucial support to local families and community programs.

A Ringing Tribute: Where Every Bell Tells a Story

Each year, Meyers Funeral Chapel creates its Wreath of Bells to honor the lives of those they have cared for. Every bell represents a loved one whose life continues to ring on through love and memories and symbolize the wings they’ve earned. This meaningful tradition serves as a gentle reminder of the lasting impact each life leaves behind.

Jaguar Pride Performs in London

Blue Springs South High School Jaguar Pride proudly represented their school and community in the 2026 London New Year’s Parade. Jaguar Pride was one of the largest marching bands in the parade’s 40-year history. Music Department students also gave a sold-out concert at the historic Smith Square Hall. Students enjoyed tours of many of London’s historic and cultural centers throughout the week. The experience was made possible through the ongoing support of the district and community.

Photography by Ali Collins

Photography by Meyers Funeral Chapel

Photography by Blue Springs South High School Jaguar Pride

Holiday Dinner Hosted at Woods Chapel Lodge

Tina Parsley-Hughes, attorney and owner of Lighthouse Legal, LLC, hosted a Christmas dinner at Woods Chapel Lodge for residents and their guests, catered by Sandy’s Restaurant. The gathering included adopting 12 seniors living at the Lodge who received gifts, along with treats for the Lodge’s cats and dogs. The effort reflected Lighthouse Legal’s ongoing practice of contributing a portion of its monthly income to community causes and charities.

Behind each of our 200+ City Lifestyle magazines is someone who cares deeply about their community. Someone who connects people, celebrates businesses, and shares the stories that matter most. What if that someone was you?

Or maybe it’s someone you know. If this isn’t the right time for you, but you know someone who could be the perfect fit, we’d love an intro.

Photography by Lighthouse Legal, LLC

WINTER SKIN STRESSING YOU OUT?

Healthy, confident skin doesn’t happen by accident. It comes from consistent care, customized treatments, and guidance from licensed esthetician experts who understand your skin. At Indigo Med Spa, we focus on real results and real education, not quick fixes. Book a facial in January and save 10% while getting a personalized plan that supports your goals all year long. Free consultations so you know exactly what your skin needs.

Text or call 816-295-5162 to book your appointment and start glowing this year.

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Bestie Bliss Beauty Month

Because great skin — and great friendships — deserve time.

February is a time to slow down, reconnect, and enjoy a complimentary Merle Norman steam facial and free makeover. Bring your Bestie and experience intentional beauty together in a relaxed, welcoming studio environment.

As part of this month-long celebration, Bestie pairs will each receive $10 off their orders and a free gift with purchase when selecting two or more Merle Norman skincare or cosmetic items.

Appointments are both limited and required. Call/text today to reserve yours!

Mock Ave, Suite C, Blue

WHERE TWO WORLDS MEET

A financial advisor’s personal commitment to the special needs community

ARTICLE BY KATARINA BREWER

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Kevin McClelland’s involvement in the special needs community didn’t come from a single moment, but from years of navigating questions, learning new systems, and finding support along the way. As a financial advisor with Edward Jones, Kevin brings both professional expertise and personal experience to families navigating complex challenges.

“Planning isn’t just about money—it’s about giving families peace of mind and options for the future.”

Kevin’s youngest son, Ian, is 24 and was diagnosed with autism at age 15. Like many families, the McClellands initially found themselves in unfamiliar territory with Individualized Education Plans, transition meetings, and long-term support—and none of it came with a roadmap. “At first, the focus was on getting Ian through the school day,” Kevin recalls.

That’s when the two worlds started to collide—the daily reality of parenting a child with special needs and Kevin’s professional background in financial planning. “We quickly realized that while the immediate days are important, planning for decades ahead is just as crucial,” Kevin said. Who would advocate for Ian? What supports would be in place? How could they plan for a future beyond their own lifetimes?

As Kevin and his family asked questions, researched resources, and leaned into community connections, they became aware of the different opportunities available for people with special needs. Ian got involved with Inclusion Connections, a Kansas City–based organization that supports young adults with disabilities through social opportunities, education, employment support, and emerging independent living communities. Through those connections, Kevin saw firsthand the power of shared knowledge and how easily families can miss critical tools simply because they don’t know they exist.

One of those tools was an ABLE account, a tax-advantaged savings account for individuals with disabilities. Despite its benefits, Kevin discovered how

difficult the process could be. Opening an account for Ian took months and persistent follow-up, but Kevin says the experience motivated him. “If I can help families avoid the frustration we went through, it’s worth it.” That experience opened his eyes to a larger issue: resources are available, but access and understanding remain major barriers. With millions eligible nationwide and only a fraction participating, Kevin knew education could make a meaningful difference.

Today, Kevin uses both his professional expertise and personal experience to help families plan with clarity and confidence. From understanding complex benefits to establishing power of attorney and creating a Memorandum of Intent, Kevin emphasizes that preparation brings certainty. “Planning isn’t just about money—it’s about giving families peace of mind and options for the future,” he says. These aren’t abstract financial strategies; they’re deeply personal acts of care.

Working alongside families has reshaped Kevin’s perspective on success and celebration. “In the special needs community, milestones look different—a job interview, a first day of work, or selling dog treats through a community program can be major achievements,” he says. Kevin and his family celebrate them all, because every achievement matters. “It’s not about what others see as small, it’s about what it means to the person and their family.”

Kevin’s hope for the future is simple but powerful: continued growth in acceptance, accessibility, and opportunity. From inclusive community developments like Belong KC to everyday accommodations that make public spaces more welcoming, he believes progress happens when people listen, learn, and show patience.

At the heart of Kevin’s work is a belief that impact is generational. Supporting individuals with special needs doesn’t just change one life—it strengthens families, communities, and future generations. By sharing his story, asking questions, and encouraging others to do the same, Kevin continues to build a network of understanding rooted in empathy.

“We take it one win at a time,” he says. And for families like his, those wins mean everything.

SPRING HOT WATER RINSE

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Creating unforgettable, family-friendly nights with the Kansas City Mavericks MORE THAN A

GAME

ARTICLE BY KATARINA BREWER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY NATE CHAIPRATHUM, CHANCE PARKER, MAKENA ADKINS, AND SARAH BUCHANAN

It’s no secret that Kansas City loves its sports. From hometown teams to national and international sporting events, this is a city that shows up to cheer—and takes pride in doing so.

That pride shows up in many ways across the metro, from packed stadiums to local game-day traditions. At every level, sports in KC are about shared experiences, cheering together and creating memories that last well beyond the final buzzer.

That mindset is at the heart of the Kansas City Mavericks— offering a game-day experience that blends fast-paced, competitive hockey with energy, creativity, and fun. Whether it’s the action on the ice or the atmosphere in the stands, Mavericks games are designed to be welcoming and engaging for everyone—families, lifelong hockey fans, and those experiencing the sport for the first time. Affordable tickets, free parking at Cable Dahmer Arena, and great sightlines throughout the arena make it easy for fans of all ages to enjoy professional hockey in Kansas City.

Guiding this vision is Lamar Hunt Jr. and James Arkell, whose family roots run deep in sports. They’ve built the team around a simple principle: hockey should be entertaining, inclusive, and memorable. Under their leadership, the Mavericks have grown into a team that values community

and connections just as much as competition—ensuring every fan leaves with a night worth remembering.

The moment fans walk through the doors, it’s clear the Mavericks are about more than the score. Themed nights, playful intermission antics, and unexpected fan interactions keep the energy high and make each game unforgettable—especially for younger fans, who often remember the excitement and shared experiences more than the final score. From Chuck-a-Puck competition, where fans toss foam pucks during the second intermission for a chance to win prizes, to on-ice contests and playful appearances by Mac the mascot, fans are often pulled from the crowd to join in the fun, and all of it is set to high-energy music playing throughout the arena.

On select theme nights, the fun doesn’t end at the final buzzer. Special post-game skates invite fans onto the ice alongside Mavericks players—creating unforgettable moments through photos, autographs, and face-to-face interactions that few professional sports experiences can match.

CONTINUED >

Inclusive experiences, like sensory-friendly games, remove barriers and ensure every child and family feels welcome. Surprises on the ice and little details that make each night unique create memories that linger long after the final buzzer—and truly set the Mavericks apart as Kansas City’s hockey team.

Beyond the action on the ice, the Mavericks are deeply connected to the Kansas City community. Each month, the team partners with a local charity, dedicating time, resources, and funds to causes that matter. From jersey auctions to supporting literacy through Mac’s Power Play Reading Club in schools, the Mavericks use hockey as a way to bring people together—both in the arena and across the city. Players don’t just take the ice; they show up in the community as approachable role models, connecting with schools, charities, and young fans in meaningful ways.

Players and staff are actively involved not because it’s required, but because giving back is woven into the team’s culture. By pairing high-energy entertainment with meaningful community engagement, the Mavericks have created an environment where fans don’t need to know hockey to enjoy the experience—just a willingness to show up, have fun, and feel part of something bigger than the game. In a city that takes pride in showing up for its teams, the Kansas City Mavericks offer something a little different. Whether it’s your first hockey game or a family tradition in the making, a night at a Mavericks game is about more than the action on the ice, it’s about shared moments, kids laughing during on-ice contests, and the satisfaction of supporting local causes that matter. With affordable tickets, free parking, and an atmosphere designed to welcome everyone, the Mavericks have created a game-day experience that feels unmistakably Kansas City—where families come together, memories are made, and everyone belongs.

Website: kcmavericks.com

Instagram: @kcmavericks

Facebook: kcmaverickshockey

“You don’t need to know hockey to enjoy a night with the Kansas City Mavericks.”

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Date Night, Your Way

A local Valentine’s Day dining guide

ARTICLE BY GRACE UTLAUT

Love is on the menu in Blue Springs this Valentine’s Day. Whether your ideal date night looks like lake views and lobster, trivia and touchdowns, or a shared beer flight downtown, there is a spot made just for you and your sweetheart.

Sinclair’s Restaurant

the Game-Day Sweethearts

SINCLAIRSRESTAURANT.COM

If your love language is cheering side by side, Sinclair’s is your Valentine’s headquarters. Founded in 2014, this friendly bar and grill has built a reputation as one of the premier spots to watch the Kansas City Chiefs. The experience is complete with a lively “Sports Arena” atmosphere, daily Chef Specials, live music, and a welcoming crowd. Couples can kick off date night with happy hour, then settle in for steaks, crab cakes, or cozy comfort dishes before sharing a slice of dessert, highly recommended by the regulars. With trivia nights, private dining options, and catering for parties, it is perfect for the pair who want great food and even better company.

East Forty Brewing

Craft Beer Cuties

EASTFORTYBREWING.COM

For the duo who would trade white tablecloths for a flight of local beer, East Forty Brewing sets the stage for a laid-back Valentine’s. Tucked along-side the train tracks in downtown Blue Springs, this brewery is known for its community vibe, easy conversation-level music, and a rotating lineup of craft brews that keeps regulars coming back. Couples can sample their way through a dozen or so beers, compare tasting notes, and pair their pints with casual bites. With its warm Mill Room event space and relaxed atmosphere, East Forty is ideal for partners who prefer sweaters and denim to dress shoes and black ties and want their Valentine’s date to feel fun and a little adventurous!

Photo credit: Megan Cason

Photo credit: Provided

Frankie’s Italian Bistro

For the Pasta Twirling Soulmates

If your idea of romance is sharing endless plates of pasta and stealing bites from each other’s plates, Frankie’s Italian Bistro delivers a warm, comforting glow. From baked ziti to lobster ravioli and spaghetti with sausage, the restaurant pairs classic Italian flavors with a relaxed yet elegant atmosphere. This spot is for the pair who loves lingering over a meal where carbs and wine blend into a perfect night.

Marina 27 Steak & Seafood

For the Waterfront Dreamers

For the couple who believes romance should always come with a view, Marina 27 feels like a getaway without ever leaving town. Perched on Lake Lotawana, the only public restaurant on the lake, it pairs glittering water views with a full bar, steaks, and fresh-tasting seafood that feels surprisingly coastal for the Midwest. Cozy up over surf-and-turf, split an order of seafood mac and cheese, or linger over Sunday brunch as boats drift by and heaters keep the patio toasty on cooler days. With dinner service every night and happy hour throughout the week, it is an effortless choice for couples who love to dress up a little, toast the sunset, and stretch Valentine’s into an evening that feels like a mini vacation.

Photo credit: Provided

Photo credit: Janie Jones

Rooted in Faith, Designed with Love

USING FLOWERS TO TELL STORIES OF LOVE, HOPE, AND MEANING

ARTICLE BY BREANNA HICKS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

Roses, tulips, chrysanthemums—each tells a story if you’re willing to listen. Amie Fleming has dedicated her life to telling such stories. Since she was a little girl, she has surrounded herself with flowers. As she grew older, Amie faced numerous tragedies, losing her joy in the process. Laying to rest not one but two husbands in less than a decade devastated her in ways she never could have imagined. Yet she found her way back. “In making their memorial pieces, it rekindled that love I put off, and that joy began to resurface.”

Amie knew she had to share that rediscovered joy with others, using flowers to tell as many stories as she could. When a friend asked her to help create floral arrangements for a wedding, she jumped at the opportunity, and that moment marked the beginning of it all. “Word of mouth is a truly crazy blessing.” Fleming Floral Station began in Amie’s kitchen and has since grown into a full-time, brick-and-mortar flower shop serving Pleasant Hill and the surrounding communities during both their happiest and most sorrowful times.

When asked what the most rewarding part of owning a flower business is, Amie shares, “Getting to be a part of someone’s story. Flowers store memories in sight and smell. I get to bring that to people on their most joyful and deeply saddest moments.” Whether it’s a woman reminiscing about her most magical day from the scent of her bouquet, or a family finding comfort and beauty in flowers as they honor a loved one, Amie treasures the opportunity to connect with people through each arrangement.

CREATIVITY IN BLOOM

At Fleming Floral Station, there are no cookie-cutter bouquets. Every arrangement is hand-designed with the customer in mind. When asked where she finds inspiration for her designs, Amie shares, “From the flowers themselves—the way a stem curves or a bloom opens. I like to incorporate unexpected elements and styles to make each arrangement truly unique.”

But it truly begins before Amie even touches the flowers. Every customer receives a one-on-one, personal consultation, where they sit in a private room to share their dream wedding, visions for the perfect event, or memories of a loved one. Amie takes the time to learn about a family’s loved one—their hobbies, favorite colors, and special memories. She says, “It is truly an honor and a privilege to serve families in these tender moments.”

For instance, Amie incorporated a green dragonfly into a cremation arrangement because the family shared how they used to fly through their loved one’s garden—and her daughters had dragonfly tattoos in her memory. “Personalization is key in all we do at Fleming Floral Station,” Amie explains.

GUIDED BY GRACE

When hard times come, as they inevitably do in business, Amie leans on the Lord as her rock. She places Him at the head of everything in her life and trusts His guidance. As she was praying and preparing to build Fleming Floral Station, she hosted a scripture writing party where loved ones wrote verses on the studs supporting the building. Today, when you walk into her

“Flowers store memories in sight and smell. I get to bring that to people during their most joyful and deeply sorrowful moments.”

store, you are literally surrounded by God’s Word. Facing the unknown, she reminds herself, “I do not fear the next chapter, because I know the author of my story,” and “Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” With those truths in hand, along with many other scriptures, Amie is able to face life’s challenges head-on.

As a florist, Amie sees her work not as a job, but as a calling. She has the privilege of celebrating with people on their most joyous days and mourning with them on their saddest. She prays God will use her, and her flower arrangements, to minister to the brokenhearted, and that they will find comfort through Him, just as she has throughout her life.

VALENTINE’S DAY

This Valentine’s Day, celebrate love with a bouquet that tells a story. Every arrangement from Fleming Floral Station carries Amie’s care, creativity, and personal touch—turning your special moments into lasting memories. Mention this article to receive 20% off your custom floral arrangement and make someone’s day truly unforgettable.

events

FEBRUARY 1ST – 28TH

Bestie Beauty Month

Merle Norman Cosmetics Studio - Blue Springs

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with your gals at Merle Norman! Enjoy complimentary express facials, free makeovers, and $10 off your purchase when you bring a friend. Plus, receive a free gift with purchase. Every bestie pair will be entered into a drawing to win a gift certificate to Trinity Wellness & Salon Bellezzio. Call or text 816-220-1248 to book your appointment.

FEBRUARY 12TH

Galentine’s Day

Kennedy’s Custom Jewelers | 4:00 – 7:00 PM

Celebrate friendship and sparkle at at Kennedy’s Custom Jewelers Galentine’s Day. Enjoy permanent jewelry by appointment, exclusive giveaways, and goody bags designed to make the day extra special. Appointments are limited—call or text 816-229-0505 to reserve your spot and join the fun.

FEBRUARY 12TH

Galentine’s Day Party

The Paperback Playhouse | 6:00 – 8:00 PM

Grab your besties and head to The Paperback Playhouse for a night of creativity and fun. Enjoy tasty drinks and treats while bedazzling your favorite book. Guests ages 13 and up are welcome—bring a book to decorate and make it sparkle. Tickets are available at paperbackplayhouse.com

FEBRUARY 13TH – 15TH

Galentine’s Zen Market

Trinity Wellness Yoga + Fitness Studio

Stop by Trinity Wellness for their Galentine’s Zen Market, a fun VIP shopping weekend celebrating self-care, wellness, and community. Enjoy free classes, exclusive boutique discounts, giveaways, and curated wellness finds. Bring friends or come solo for movement, connection, and retail therapy all weekend long. Learn more and sign up for classes at trinitywellnesskc.com/monthly-classes-events.html

FEBRUARY 14TH

2026 Heart Strings Gala

The Abbott | 5:30 – 10:00 PM

Join The Band of Angels for the 2026 Heart Strings Gala, an evening celebrating music, community, and opportunity. Enjoy student performances, dinner, drinks, auctions, live music, and dancing. Your support provides instruments and music education for students. Celebrate belonging, equity, and the transformative power of music. Learn more, get tickets, or donate at bandofangels.org/heartstringsgala

FEBRUARY 19TH – 22ND

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

in Concert

Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts | Performance Times Vary

Experience Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets like never before as the Kansas City Symphony performs John Williams’ legendary music live while the film plays on the big screen. Relive Harry’s second year at Hogwarts with spells, creatures, and adventure brought to life. For more information and to purchase your tickets visit tickets.kauffmancenter.org

Want to be featured?

It’s time to think about your student’s instrumental music future. If they are still playing on a beginner instrument, now is the time to move to a Soloist performance-level instrument.

Call Meyer Music today for an appointment to upgrade your Rent-to-Learn instrument to a Soloist Performance Level instrument and learn more about how a percentage of the equity from your current instrument can apply to your upgrade.