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CELEBRATE

MOTHER’S DAY

GIFTS SHE’LL TREASURE FOREVER

THOUGHTFULLY CRAFTED. SIMPLY EXCEPTIONAL.

JOIN US FOR OUR PERMANENT JEWELRY POP-UP

THURS, MAY 7TH 4-7 PM

To the Strong Women

How do you begin to put into words the impact the women in your life have had on you? From moms and sisters, to teachers, neighbors, and friends, they show up and pour their love, support and encouragement into others.

In this issue, we highlight some local women making a difference in our communities. As business owners, they are helping create a more connected community and investing in the people around them.

I’d like to extend a Happy Mother’s Day to all the ladies reading this. Whether you are a mom, adoptive mom, step-mom, soon-to-be mom, hoping to become a mom, a mom who has experienced loss, a grandma, great-grandma, aunt, or someone who has stepped into a motherly role, we see you and honor you.

Each day, you inspire those around you to try something new, stand up for what’s right, and believe in themselves. In the eyes of your child, you are the best mom they could ever have—a real-life superhero. This holds true for me when I think of my mom. Her patience, love, strength, and guidance has shaped who I am today.

I hope you’ll take a few minutes this month to send a text, mail a note, make a call, or get on a video call with the women in your life that have made an impact on you. Because small gestures mean more than we realize.

KATARINA BREWER, EDITOR @BLUESPRINGSCITYLIFESTYLE

May 2026

PUBLISHER

Austin Brewer | austinbrewer@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Katarina Brewer | katarina.brewer@citylifestyle.com

COPY EDITOR

Cheryl Leppert | cherylleppert@gmail.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Carley Ridley | carley.ridley@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Breanna Hicks, Mary King, Katarina Brewer

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Krier Photo, Janie Jones

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

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: Ava Gardner enjoying the magic of an early morning in Venice, Italy. 2: BODYBAR Pilates, Midwest Spine & Sport, Luminare, and other local vendors hosted a community-centered wellness event. 3: Once Upon A Smile delivers toys from its Community Toy Drive to Children’s Mercy Hospital. 4: Honest Maids celebrates its ribbon cutting with the Blue Springs Chamber of Commerce. 5: Fun at the Colonial Farms grand opening. 6: The Swim Things team during their annual swimwear sale. 7: The shortest and smallest St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Main Street in Blue Springs.

ALI COLLINS

CASTAWAY DESTINATIONS

SWIM THINGS

BLUE SPRINGS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

BODYBAR PILATES

ALI COLLINS

ONCE UPON A SMILE

business monthly

Community Honors for Meyers Funeral Chapel

Meyers Funeral Chapel was recently recognized as Business of the Year by the Parkville Area Chamber, highlighting the organization’s ongoing commitment to serving families in the community. Todd Meyers was nominated for a Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing his years of dedication and leadership. These honors reflect Meyers Funeral Chapel’s continued impact and trusted role in the Kansas City area. Scan to read more

Exploring Ireland Through a Travel Advisor’s Lens

Laura Legg, owner of Castaway Destinations, recently traveled to Ireland with associate advisor Molly Price to deepen their knowledge and gain first-hand insights into one of Europe’s most visited destinations. During the trip, they explored Dublin, Northern Ireland, and the countryside, staying in luxury hotels, including unique stays like the forest bubbles at Finn Lough, and visiting iconic sites such as Giant’s Causeway and Titanic Belfast. Ireland remains a popular choice for couples, families, and multigenerational travelers.

TruMark Custom Homes Featured in Spring Parade of Homes

The 2026 Spring Parade of Homes is underway until May 10, showcasing new construction homes across the Kansas City area. Among the featured builders, TruMark Custom Homes has multiple homes on the tour in Blue Springs and Lee’s Summit, offering a look at current design trends, layouts and craftsmanship. The annual event provides an opportunity to explore a variety of residential styles and design ideas. For more details, visit kchba.org/parade-of-homes

Photography by TruMark Custom Homes

Photography by Castaway Destinations

Photography by Meyers Funeral Chapel

Sun, Style & Swim Season

Feel confident, comfortable, and ready for poolside days.

Even the busiest moms deserve a little relief and a fresh start

HONEST MAIDS TO THE RESCUE

ARTICLE BY BREANNA HICKS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMANDA KRIER

Crystal knows what it’s like to have a busy household. As a mom of a teenage son and a young daughter, her days are filled with responsibilities as she keeps up with schedules, manages a home, and makes sure everyone is taken care of.

A few years ago, Crystal faced an unexpected challenge. In 2022, she found herself laid off and navigating the uncertainty of being a single mom in between jobs. What could have been a stopping point became a turning point.

Mother’s Day

ARTICLE BY KATARINA BREWER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KRIER PHOTO

Trying to find the perfect Mother’s Day gift? Make this Mother’s Day meaningful with a gift found close to home. We’ve rounded up some of the most unique local finds in beauty, wellness, home, and style to help you find the perfect match for every woman on your list. Explore our selection and find the perfect gift for the amazing women in your life.

Swimwear, cover-ups, and accessories at Swim Things. swimthings.com 4. Stackable 14k yellow gold birthstone rings at Kennedy’s Custom Jewelers. | kennedysjewelers.com

Handcrafted door wreaths from Petals and Potpourri. petalsandpotpourri.com

Place To Gather

ARTICLE BY KALI KASORZYK

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

BECKY HILLYARD

From Side Hustle to Style Empire

The power of taste, trust, and the courage to “just start.”

She didn’t have a business plan, a media budget, or even a name anyone could pronounce. What Becky Hillyard had was taste, a young family, and the instinct to just start. Today, her lifestyle brand Cella Jane commands an audience the size of Vogue’s , she’s nine collections strong with Splendid, and she’s built it all while raising three kids — refusing to sacrifice one for the other. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Becky shares what it really takes to build a brand, a career, and a life you love. Read the highlights below, then scan the QR code for the full conversation.

Q: WHEN DID YOU KNOW CELLA JANE WAS MORE THAN A HOBBY?

A: Two moments. Women started emailing me saying they bought something I recommended and felt amazing — asking me to help them find a dress for a wedding. That felt incredible. Then I looked at my affiliate numbers for one month and realized I could cover our mortgage. I thought, I can actually do this. I never set out to build a business. I started it because I genuinely loved it.

Becky in Splendid x @CellaJaneBlog Spring 2026 Collection

Q: WHAT WAS THE BIGGEST RISK YOU EVER TOOK WITH THE BRAND?

A: Designing my own collection. It’s easy to point at items on a website and say I love these. But to create something from scratch, put your name on it, and wait to see if people connect with it — that’s terrifying. I had an incredible partner in Splendid, and women loved the pieces. It was the biggest risk and the biggest accomplishment.

Q: HOW HAS INFLUENCER MARKETING CHANGED SINCE YOU STARTED?

A: When I started, brands didn’t know whether to take it seriously. Now it’s a legitimate line item in their marketing budgets — sometimes bigger than TV. Because what we’ve built is trust. People trust a real recommendation from someone they follow far more than a commercial. There’s no question about it now.

Q: YOU’RE A MOM OF THREE RUNNING A FULL BRAND. WHAT DOES YOUR DAY ACTUALLY LOOK LIKE?

A: I try to get up at five and not hit snooze — that first hour before the house wakes up is the most productive, most peaceful hour of my day. Then it’s all hands on deck with the kids and school drop-off. After that I work — planning content, connecting with my team, editing. After pickup, the day shifts completely and it’s all about them. I’ve learned to protect both halves fiercely, because both matter.

Q: WHAT WOULD YOU TELL SOMEONE WHO WANTS TO BUILD SOMETHING OF THEIR OWN BUT KEEPS WAITING?

A: Don’t wait. Don’t wait for the perfect camera, the right strategy, or enough followers. We find every excuse to stay comfortable. Just start, be consistent, and be authentically yourself. The right people will find you — and they’ll stay.

This conversation is just the beginning. Becky goes deeper on the risks that almost stopped her, the design process behind her latest Splendid collection, and what she’d tell her 2012 self today. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on the Share the Lifestyle podcast.

“Trust is the only metric that actually compounds.”

— Becky Hillyard

Your Financial Seat at the Table

For generations, women were often left out of financial conversations.

Today, women are leading households, running businesses, and making major financial decisions.

WE HELP WOMEN:

• Understand their retirement income plan

• Protect what they've built

• Create a legacy for their children and grandchildren

OUR MISSION IS SIMPLE: Give women clarity and confidence around their finances.

DELIGHT MOM WITH HOMEMADE BELGIAN WAFFLES

ARTICLE BY MATTHEW SOUSA

Mother’s Day is the perfect occasion to treat Mom to a special homemade breakfast, and nothing says “I love you” like a plate of warm, fluffy Belgian waffles. These waffles are crispy on the outside, light and airy on the inside, and perfect for a delicious morning celebration.

CLASSIC BELGIAN WAFFLE RECIPE

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 tbsp sugar

• 1 tbsp baking powder

• ½ tsp salt

• 2 eggs, separated

• 1¾ cups milk

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

2. In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks, then mix in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.

3. Combine the wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.

4. In another bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form, then gently fold them into the batter.

5. Preheat your waffle iron and lightly grease it. Pour in enough batter to cover the surface and cook until golden brown and crisp.

Serving Suggestions:

Top the waffles with fresh berries, whipped cream, and a drizzle of maple syrup or chocolate sauce. Pair with a hot cup of coffee or fresh orange juice for a perfect Mother’s Day surprise.

This simple yet elegant breakfast is a heartfelt way to show Mom just how much she means to you. Happy Mother’s Day!

BREAKFAST Mother’s Day

A TEAM THAT FEELS LIKE FAMILY

Indigo’s culture extends beyond clients. Singleton is quick to point out that what they’ve built is a true team.

“It’s not me; it’s us,” she said. “We are a family. These girls know there’s nothing they could come to me with that I wouldn’t try to help with.”

That sense of loyalty and care is intentional…and non-negotiable.

“We focus on support, kindness and lifting each other up,” she said.

The result is something clients can feel immediately.

“It’s like coming home,” she said. “Like going to your best friend’s house.”

ROOTED IN BLUE SPRINGS

Though she’s had opportunities to expand elsewhere, Singleton has chosen to keep Indigo rooted in Blue Springs—the community that supported her from the beginning.

“I’m a loyalty girl,” she said. “These are the people who showed up for me. I won’t forget that.”

That loyalty runs both ways. Many of her clients have been with her for years, and new ones often come through word of mouth.

“They’re not just clients,” she said. “They’re part of this.”

A DIFFERENT KIND OF BEAUTY

At its core, Indigo Med Spa is about more than appearances. It’s about helping women feel seen, heard and supported in a world that often moves too fast to allow for any of those things.

“People just want to feel better right now, and they want to be heard,” Singleton said.

So whether someone walks in for a treatment, a conversation or simply a moment to breathe, the goal remains the same.

“We’re just trying to remind women who they already are,” she said.

And in a world that rarely slows down long enough to do that, Indigo offers something rare: A place to reconnect—with yourself and with each other.

VISIT INDIGO MED SPA

Indigo Med Spa is located at 3100 SW State Route 7. From customized facials and injectables to a variety of advanced skin treatments, Indigo offers services designed to meet each client’s needs and goals. For more information on services, memberships or to schedule an appointment, visit myindigoclinic.com

“This isn’t just about beauty. This is a movement.”

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY PATTI NOBLE

SPRINGTIME cheer

Whether you're catching up with your closest friends on a sunny spring afternoon or savoring a well-spent day with your mom, sister or aunt, there's something special about gathering over a pitcher of crisp, refreshing white sangria. This bright, flavorful, fruit-filled cocktail is the perfect companion for laughter, stories, meaningful conversation, and making memories with the ones who know you best. Cheers to friendship and a glass half full!

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 (750-milliliter) bottle dry rosé wine, or white wine*

• 1 cup vodka**

• 1 cup sliced or chunked strawberries

• 2 medium limes, sliced into thin wheels, more for garnish

• 2 medium lemons or oranges sliced into thin wheels

• 1 1/2 cups sparkling water, chilled

• Raspberries or Blackberries

CELEBRATE THE SEASON WITH A VIBRANT WHITE SANGRIA

DIRECTIONS:

1. In a pitcher, add the wine, vodka, strawberries, and citrus fruit slices. Stir well to combine.

2. Cover and refrigerate overnight.

3. Pour into glasses (over ice, if desired), ensuring each glass gets strawberry and citrus slices, top with sparking water or seltzer.

4. Garnish with a lemon or lime wheel, and berries.

5. Enjoy with friends.

*Suggested wines: Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, and Viognier.

**Add extra flavor by using an infused vodka.

One of the ways we keep you in the loop during service is through our complimentary Digital Vehicle Inspection, or DVI. The DVI allows us to make sure you and your family are safe on the road, and lets us address small concerns before they become big, and costly, problems.

(816) 795-6811

cbac.com/independence 19600 East US Highway 40

TINA PARSLEY HUGHES,

MAY 2ND – JUNE 21ST

Painted Garden

Powell Gardens

Painted Garden returns to Powell Gardens, celebrating the Midwest with this year’s theme: “The Prairie Is Our Home.” Visitors can explore bright spring blooms, open prairie landscapes, and a unique barn quilt art installation, alongside work from local artists. Visit powellgardens.org/painted-garden to purchase your tickets.

MAY 7TH

Mother’s Day Permanent Jewelry Pop-Up

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

Celebrate Mother’s Day at Kennedy’s Custom Jewelers with a Permanent Jewelry Pop-Up Event. Guests are welcome to stop by and take part in the event, with permanent jewelry available by appointment. In partnership with Rose Hill Floral, enjoy a build-your-own bouquet bar, perfect for creating something beautiful for the moms in your life. Call or text 816-229-0505 to reserve your spot.

Our

dog training that

programs go beyond

not

your dog’s unique needs — including

issues and service dog training. With lasting results and a stronger bond between you and your dog, we aim to be the last trainers you’ll ever need in the Kansas City, MO/KS area.

Building lasting obedience and stronger bonds through personalized, professional dog training in the Kansas City, MO/KS area.

We come to you—home, office, anywhere!

PERSONALIZED PLANS

We serve the Kansas City Metro Area! CONVENIENCE

Customized treatment for your specific needs. FLEXIBLE SCHEDULING

Book appointments that fit your busy life.

ONE-ON-ONE ATTENTION

Receive dedicated, focused care every session.

CONTINUED

MAY 12TH

Home Buying Class

Sage Door Realty | 6:30 PM

Take the next step toward your dream home with The Brown Team at Sage Door Realty Group’s Home Buying Class. Designed for firsttime buyers or those refining their plans, this class offers expert insights, tips, and tools to navigate the current market. Attend virtually or in person at Sage Door Realty in Blue Springs. Call or text (816) 896-8916 to learn more.

MAY 13TH

BODYBAR Open House & Ribbon Cutting

BODYBAR Pilates - Blue Springs | 4:30 – 7:00 PM

Celebrate the grand opening of BODYBAR Pilates in Blue Springs with an open house and ribbon cutting. Guests are invited to tour the new studio, meet the team, and experience the space firsthand. There will be giveaways, an in-studio boutique, and a variety of local vendors. Stop by and welcome BODYBAR Pilates to the community.

MAY 21ST

Family Fun Night in Downtown Blue Springs

Downtown Blue Springs | 5:00 – 8:00 PM

Summer Nights returns to Downtown Blue Springs. Enjoy an evening of live entertainment, local vendors, food trucks, and family-friendly fun. With Bubbletastic Events, free spin art with Kreeayt Art Studio, open shops, and plenty to explore, it’s the perfect opportunity to get out and experience the community.

MAY 24TH

Celebration at the Station

Union Station Kansas City

The Kansas City Symphony presents Celebration at the Station at Union Station and the National WWI Museum and Memorial. This free Memorial Day weekend concert features patriotic favorites, special guests, and pre-concert performances. To wrap up the evening, enjoy a fireworks show celebrating both the holiday and the 250th anniversary of the United States. For more details visit kcsymphony.org/celebration

Meyer has Music history

60 YEARS AGO in March 1966, the Meyer family opened the first Meyer Music in Blue Springs. Over the decades, our music business has grown and flourished. We have welcomed many new Meyer family members and added two Meyer Music locations in Overland Park and Kansas City North. Today, it is not uncommon to see three generations of Meyers working in any one of the three locations. Our family’s attention to detail, customer service, and superior quality products makes Meyer Music the best choice for your family.