Chattanooga, TN May 2026

The Women Among Us

I love all of the issues we publish, but our Ladies’ Issue is always a favorite. It’s an opportunity to celebrate the remarkable women shaping our community—those leading, creating, serving, and showing up in ways both seen and unseen.

When I think of extraordinary women, I think of my Great Aunt Mary. Born in 1930, she still lives independently and fully in her own home. She lived through the Great Depression, the 1937 Evansville flood, and built a 37-year career in advertising at Keller Crescent long before it was common for women to do so.

In many ways, I’ve followed in her footsteps. We share a love of dogs, travel, and shopping.  Growing up, I always thought she looked like Elizabeth Taylor, a comparison she once proved by winning a look-alike contest. At 95, she still maintains her signature black hair, dresses with intention, and never misses a chance to wear beautiful jewelry and carry a great handbag.

My Aunt Mary reminds me that strength and vibrancy don’t fade—they deepen. This issue is a celebration of women like her, and like so many featured in these pages, who continue to inspire us with the way they live, lead, and love.

From Estela Lopes Felipe’s journey from Brazil to launching her own restaurant rooted in community and craft, to a group of inspiring local women who are shaping everything from the arts and financial spaces to animal welfare and higher education, we are honored to highlight the many ways women are influencing our city.

We also highlight businesses that are thoughtfully redefining beauty and the spaces we live in. At elea blake, a mother-daughter team has built a brand centered on individuality, helping women discover confidence through personalized color and intentional design. Meanwhile, Fox & Fern Botanical Styling invites us to slow down and reconnect with the natural world, creating spaces that feel both artful and alive through their signature approach to floral and biophilic design.

We explore meaningful work happening through organizations like the Sunrise Coalition, expanding access to essential care for women, alongside entrepreneurs like Dr. Courtney Lewis who are reimagining industries with innovation and trust. Whether through beauty, design, wellness, or service, these stories remind us that when women invest in their passions and their communities, the impact is both powerful and lasting.

May we never stop noticing, celebrating, and learning from the women among us. Cheers!

LISA YOCKEY, PUBLISHER

May 2026

PUBLISHER

Lisa Yockey | lisa.yockey@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Belinda Martin | belinda.martin@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Katie Bode | katie.bode@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Eve Crabtree, Demi Guillory, Kate Robertson Parrish, Kristi Sellers, Christine Waldrop

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Golden Hour Images, WanderMoore Photos

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Josh Govero

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.

inside the issue

business monthly

CCL Welcomes New Partner, Envision Home Staging & Design

Envision Home Staging and Design, LLC, led by owner Tiffany Rich, is helping homes make powerful first impressions across Chattanooga and North Georgia. What began as a passion for transforming spaces has grown into a thriving business specializing in strategic staging for homeowners, realtors, and builders— creating inviting environments that connect with buyers and help properties stand out and sell faster.

Traveler’s Caffè Serving Clients in the Chattanooga Area

Traveler’s Caffè is expanding its boutique travel services to welcome clients in the Chattanooga area. Specializing in custom-designed European journeys, the company crafts personalized itineraries tailored to a variety of travel styles and budgets. From thoughtfully curated getaways to small-group immersive tours, every detail is handled with care—offering seamless logistics and authentic local experiences that allow travelers to explore Europe effortlessly and like true insiders.

Girl Scouts of Southern Appalachians Cookie Season Spells Sweet Success

The 2026 cookie season ended on a high note for Girl Scouts of Southern Appalachians, with nearly 1.1 million boxes sold across the region. About 4,000 girls participated, building entrepreneurial and leadership skills throughout February and March. As the world’s largest girl-led business program, cookie sales support local troops—funding camps, experiences, and skill development—while keeping proceeds invested right here in the community. Isn’t it amazing what a box of cookies can do?

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Closets by Design of Chattanooga Earns Company-Wide Honor

Closets by Design of Chattanooga recently received the Notable Achievements Award, a company-wide honor recognizing excellence in customer satisfaction, market growth, operational performance, and innovation. Opened in summer 2024 by Zach and Ashton Gifford, the franchise earned this distinction in its first year. Zach and Ashton note, “Driven by the commitment outlined in our goals, our team's hardwork and determination have earned us this outstanding award. We are very thankful to our entire team.”

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Chattanooga City Lifestyle Partners with Chattatinis

Chattanooga City Lifestyle is excited to announce a new social media partnership with Chattatinis. This collaboration will feature exclusive, co-branded content across editorial and social platforms, highlighting stories, experiences, and behind-the-scenes moments. Together, the partnership aims to expand reach, elevate local storytelling, and offer followers engaging, curated content that showcases more of what makes the Chattanooga community unique.

Sweet & Savory Classroom Summer Camp Registration Now Open

Sweet and Savory Classroom invites young chefs into the kitchen with hands-on summer camps like Cooking Road Trip Camp, European Dessert Camp, Love to Bake Camp, and Trip to Asia Camp. Each experience introduces kids to new techniques, and cultures while building confidence in the kitchen. With a mix of sweet treats and savory creations, campers will enjoy an interactive environment where learning feels like play and ends with something delicious. Register at: sweetandsavoryclassroom.com.

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Local Women You Should Know

How Five Chattanooga Women are Impacting Lives in The Community

ARTICLE BY EVE CRABTREE

DR. LORI BRUCE

CHANCELLOR, UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE AT CHATTANOOGA

Chancellor Lori Bruce has seen the transformative power of higher education in her own life, something that guided her career choices. “I started as an engineer and researcher, focusing on remote sensing and pattern recognition,” she shares. “Over time, I found myself drawn increasingly to leadership roles in academia.” She went on to lead academic programs, grow research initiatives, and support students and faculty while working at Tennessee Technological University and Mississippi State University.

Now, as Chancellor of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, she is continually inspired by the change she sees education making in the lives of individuals, families, and communities. “I’ve seen firsthand how access, opportunity and support can open doors that change a student’s life trajectory,” she explains. “I realized that stepping into leadership could have a broader impact, helping shape institutions to better serve our students and strengthen our communities. That continues to motivate me daily to ensure our university is making a meaningful difference.”

Chancellor Bruce is also encouraged and energized by how UTC and Chattanooga are connected. “We have a unique opportunity to partner with our community in ways that create opportunity and support regional growth,” she says. “Every day brings a chance to make a difference—for our students, campus, and community—and that’s what I find most rewarding.”

As someone who finds great joy in being a leader in her community, Chancellor Bruce encourages women to lead as well. “It’s incredibly important for women to step forward and lead in their communities because representation matters,” she shares. “When leadership reflects the people it serves, it leads to stronger decisions and outcomes.” She hopes women will step confidently into leadership roles, authentically sharing their voices and perspectives to better their world.

As the granddaughter of a Chattanooga businessman, Gretchen Wynn had a great example of being disciplined in stewarding money. “He showed me what financial stability looks like,” she shares. “He shaped my understanding of responsibility, entrepreneurship, and money.”

During COVID, she became interested in the stock market and learned as much as she could. These interests led her to working with Edward Jones. “I stepped into this work because I had people who pushed me forward,” Gretchen shares. “My husband and daughter—my biggest cheerleaders—and my colleagues and mentors believed in and encouraged me.”

Gretchen enjoys supporting others through her work by boosting their confidence in both financial matters and personal growth. “What I do isn’t transactional; it’s about relationship,” she explains. “Being a steady voice in the moments that feel too big, turning overwhelm into clarity, and fear into a plan.”

GRETCHEN WYNN

FINANCIAL ADVISOR, EDWARD JONES

“

“I’ve been surrounded by strong women who have poured into me, challenged me, and widened my circle. Their support is a reminder that community truly is essential. Growth doesn’t follow a timeline, and it is never too late to step into who you’re meant to be.”

Gretchen’s life is full of women who have encouraged her growth. “I’ve been surrounded by strong women who have poured into me, challenged me, and widened my circle,” she says. “Their support is a reminder that community truly is essential.” Additionally, as she’s raising a young woman— her daughter, Jayla—Gretchen strives to live confidently, being an example by living out her faith and taking bold steps. “I want her to see courage and growth lived out, not just spoken about,” she shares. “Growth doesn’t follow a timeline, and it is never too late to step into who you’re meant to be.”

Serving her community one person at a time, Gretchen loves encouraging other women to take bold steps towards make a difference. “Seeing other women leading in the community sets off a ripple effect that allows young girls and women to step into their potential,” Gretchen says. “When we bring diverse perspectives to the table, we create better, more effective solutions.”

HEATHER WOODS

MANAGER, PET PLACEMENT CENTER

Whether they’re her own, those of family members, or in a shelter, waiting for a home, taking care of animals has always been a joy for Heather Woods. Growing up, her family had dogs and her uncle had horses, so animals have always been her safe space.

While living in southern Alabama for eight years, Heather’s passion grew as she volunteered at a veterinary office and worked in animal shelters. When she came back to Chattanooga, her hometown, she discovered Pet Placement Center. “I loved Pet Placement Center,” Heather shares. “It wasn’t like other shelters. The animals were well attended, getting individual one-on-one time.”

Shortly after, Heather began working as a kennel technician there. “I adored it,” she shares. “The level of compassion, love, and attention in the shelter was amazing.” After about a year, Heather transitioned into her current management position and loves serving in that capacity alongside the women on the board. “They’re an amazing, supportive group of women,” she says.

Now, three years after starting at Pet Placement Center, Heather has four dogs—including three adopted from the center—and numerous others at the shelter that she embraces as her own. “We’re their home until they’re adopted. We treat them like they’re our animals,” she shares. “It’s so rewarding to know that we’re helping enrich these animals’ lives.” Heather’s compassion comes from her mother, who is a compassionate woman and a great influence in Heather’s life.

Just as her mom inspired her, Heather hopes to inspire other women. Heather has discovered the joy from embracing her passions, so she hopes more women will pursue their dreams and experience the same happiness. “Find a way to be involved and work toward your dreams and hopes,” she says. “It’s never too late to follow that dream and find different paths to make your dream a reality.”

Pam Reed has always had a passion for art and sharing it with others. For 20 years, she enjoyed a fashion design career in New York City and worked with various fashion companies. During their time in New York, she and her husband also opened a space that included a bar, restaurant, and event area. “We created a space rooted in community, creativity, and connection,” she shares. They sold the business seven years later and, with two young daughters, the future was uncertain. “Then, on our 15th anniversary trip, we unexpectedly found ourselves in Chattanooga,” Pam reflects. “We reconnected with friends and opportunities, and soon after we decided to move.”

Once in Chattanooga, Pam visited the Anna Safley Houston Museum of Decorative Arts. “I was completely captivated,” she says. In 2022, she stepped into the role of Executive Director—an excellent fit for her passions and skills, especially with her background in hospitality and love of visiting museums for inspiration during her fashion design career.

Though working at the museum was a big change for Pam, it has been an opportunity for growth. “It wasn’t about having a perfect background,” she explains, “it was about being willing to try, learn, and lead authentically.”

She encourages other women to embrace the same sort of opportunities. “Be open to change, trying something new, and reinventing yourself,” she says. “It can be intimidating, but the skills gained along the way are transferable in ways we don’t always realize.”

“Be open to change, trying something new, and reinventing yourself. It can be intimidating, but the skills gained along the way are transferable in ways we don’t always realize.” “

She also hopes that other women will take chances to impact their communities. “It’s incredibly important for women to step into leadership roles in their communities because we bring a different perspective— one that often values collaboration, creativity, and connection,” Pam says. “When women see other women leading, it expands what feels possible.”

PAM REED

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, HOUSTON MUSEUM OF DECORATIVE ARTS

ALLIE LEVINE

STROKE SURVIVOR

Since she was 21 years old, Allie Levine has experienced severe bouts of tachycardia due to three congenital heart defects and the malfunctioning of her heart’s natural pacemaker. She went in for surgery April 2023 to correct the third congenital defect and, as a healthy woman in her 40s, she wasn’t concerned about complications. She couldn’t have foreseen what came next.

“Waking up in the recovery room, I could feel something was very wrong,” Allie shares. Doctors quickly identified that Allie had suffered a stroke, changing the course of her recovery.

Allie spent over six weeks in rehabilitation. “I shared updates on CaringBridge, started attending local in-person stroke support groups, and joined some online groups,” Allie says. “But as is often the case with online platforms, the misinformation was alarming.” She saw the need in that area and is now in the final phases of creating an online support group that will be free and led by stroke-survivors with a medical background. “God placed me at this moment in time for this purpose,” Allie shares. “My hope with launching this online community is to give back dignity to people who have fought and worked so hard.”

Additionally, Allie developed a program for new stroke survivors. “I found the early days post-stroke to be the most challenging times I faced throughout my entire journey,” Allie shares. “This program would provide support and mentorship for those who are just leaving the hospital or rehabilitation facilities and are facing life after stroke.”

She is also spreading awareness to help women advocate for themselves. “As women, our bodies don’t always present with the classical signs and symptoms of a stroke or heart attack,” Allie says. “Trust your instincts and advocate for yourself. If something doesn’t feel right, say something! Keep saying something until someone listens. It may just save your life or the life of someone you love.”

Woman on a Mission

DR. COURTNEY LEWIS BRINGS MODERN VETERINARY

CARE

TO CHATTANOOGA

ARTICLE BY DEMI GUILLORY

Though thousands of miles away from where she grew up, Dr. Courtney Lewis is certain that she is right where she is supposed to be.

“I adore Chattanooga...it’s a great town,” she says–a town she fell in love with by chance on a whirlwind honeymoon through the south with her husband in 2019. “We stayed in these little tree houses that are at the base of Lookout Mountain,” Lewis fondly recalls.

They eventually returned home, but when COVID and forest fires uprooted life in their Californian town, their ongoing decision to settle in Chattanooga was solidified and six years later, is stronger than ever for the whole family. “We love taking our dogs out on hikes and walks,” Dr. Lewis shares, which includes frequent trips to Big Soddy where they can fully immerse in nature, or out on the Tennessee River where Ziggy, their French Bulldog, can paddleboard.

Dr. Lewis is no doubt happy to be here but even happier to give back to the community that has welcomed her with open arms and the animals who have always had a special place in the veterinarian’s heart. And while Chattanooga may not have initially been her plan, there was never any doubt about her career path.

“I wanted to be a vet from the start,” Dr. Lewis says, and by age 12, her path in veterinary medicine was already being forged. In high school, she worked part-time at several local animal hospitals and gained a wealth of experience that she credits for her success today.

After completing her studies at the then top ranked veterinary school in the globe, UC Davis, Dr. Lewis wasted no time getting to work, fully prepared with the confidence from her early experience. She has worked in general practice, emergency care, high volume spay neuter “and everywhere in between.” Even today, the learning never stops. “Next to my bed is a stack of journal articles that I read every night to make sure quality of care is staying up with the times.”

For Dr. Lewis, it is quite simple. “My passion lies in giving as much information to the pet parent to allow for them to make an educated decision. There’s many different ways to practice medicine and [give] an owner the power to know how best to guide their pet’s care.”

One of her favorite things, she notes, is the opportunity to witness an animal’s journey alongside their owners. “Even though they’re your clients, they become your friends because you just know them and they trust you, and you trust them.”

Trust is also the foundation on which Dr. Lewis is building the Chattanooga area’s first ever open-concept animal hospital. It is trust in the timing, process and, most of all, her lifelong passion and respect for veterinary medicine and small business owners. “Our world right now is very distrustful of medicine, and we don’t have a lot of transparency in veterinary medicine,” she says.

The modern hospital’s open accessibility floor plan is carefully crafted with many glass doors and windows. This will provide the opportunity for those who feel a strong need to know exactly what is being done, the ability to see first-hand everything from ultrasounds and blood draws to treatment and some surgeries, while also offering the option for others to comfortably wait in a designated area if they prefer.

With unwavering, inspiring commitment to her calling, Dr. Lewis and her equally dedicated staff are well on their way to making much needed change to the previously heavily corporate veterinary care in Chattanooga. This will be a “game changer” for pet parents, she says.

Chatt Town Veterinary Hospital will open early this summer and will provide all levels of care, from routine visits to advanced surgeries. Learn more at www.chatt.vet .

“My passion lies in giving as much information to the pet parent to allow for them to make an educated decision.”

Making Every Moment Magical

FOX & FERN

WHERE NATURE MEETS ARTFUL LIVING

ARTICLE BY KRISTI SELLERS

PHOTOGRAPHY

BY WANDERMOORE PHOTOS

Tucked into the heart of downtown Chattanooga, Fox & Fern Botanical Styling feels less like a shop and more like a breath of fresh air. Step inside, and the pace of the outside world softens. The scent of fresh greenery lingers, petals spill gently from thoughtfully arranged bouquets, and every corner feels alive.

Owner Liza Greever opened Fox & Fern in 2015. “At first I wanted to design for small weddings and events from my home studio, but it evolved into wanting a non-traditional, fun, whimsical flower shop based on creativity and individuality”, says Liza.

At its core, Fox & Fern is about more than flowers. It’s all about connection. Founded on the idea that florals are one of the most meaningful ways to express emotion, the studio has become a creative hub where nature and design intersect. Whether it’s a wedding, a celebration, or an ordinary Tuesday that calls for something beautiful, each arrangement is crafted to reflect the individuality of the moment.

There’s an artistry to what they do, but it never feels overworked. Instead, the designs feel organic, almost as if they grew that way naturally. Soft color palettes, unexpected textures, and a balance between wild and refined give their work a signature style that is both elevated and approachable. It’s the kind of beauty that doesn’t demand attention, but quietly holds it.

That same philosophy extends beyond bouquets.

Fox & Fern has built its reputation on biophilic design, a concept rooted in bringing the outside in. From lush plant installations to curated green spaces for homes and businesses, their work invites nature to become part of everyday life. In a world that often feels disconnected from the natural environment, this approach feels grounding or even necessary.

And perhaps that’s why their work resonates so deeply.

Running a successful floral design business requires one to wear a lot of hats. According to Liza, “ I handle everything in the shop from cleaning to bookkeeping. My primary job is designing for our weddings and large events. I’m still the owner, general manager and director of operations. I have a plant shop/plant care manager and a daily flower shop manager;

they keep everything balanced and help me significantly. We also have part time designers and customer service staff, and plant care assistants. I feel very blessed to have my current team.”

There is also something distinctly personal about the way they work. Clients aren’t simply choosing flowers; they’re collaborating in a creative process. Whether planning a wedding or refreshing their living spaces, the team approaches each project with intention and care, ensuring that every detail feels aligned with the client’s vision. The result is work that feels less like a transaction and more like a familiar relationship.

Every business has someone working behind the scenes. Sometimes it’s hands-on and other times it’s through other means. Who has supported Fox & Fern since its inception?  “My husband. He never gives up on me or stops supporting me through the business journey even when it gets hard. He has taught me a lot about management, operations and leadership,”  says Liza.

It’s no surprise that the studio has become a favorite among event planners and locals alike.

Known for their attention to detail and ability to translate ideas into something tangible and beautiful, Fox & Fern has a way of turning inspiration into reality. Their designs don’t just decorate a space, they define it.

Fox & Fern has big plans. “I plan to open another location focused more on flowers and event workspace, while keeping our current location focused on plant and floral retail. We are tight on space now, but we make it work! We love our little Chestnut Street location,” says Liza.

In a fast-moving world, spaces like Fox & Fern remind us to pause. To bring a little more nature into our homes. To celebrate beauty in its simplest forms. To surround ourselves with things that feel alive.

In the end, Fox & Fern is more than a studio, it’s an invitation. An invitation to live a little more slowly, to notice the beauty in natural details, and to bring the outside world in. Through every stem, leaf, and carefully chosen element, they remind us that our spaces should feel as alive as we do.

Perhaps that’s Liza’s greatest gift: creating not just arrangements, but moments of connection. In a city that thrives on creativity and community, Fox & Fern quietly encourages us to root ourselves in both, one beautiful, intentional space at a time.

When she’s not working at Fox & Fern, you can find Liza at home spending time with her family or friends. “I started the business when my son was 2 years old, so running the business while parenting has taken up nearly all of my time. I’m trying to find out who I am outside of work, I’m in a place of rediscovery.”

THE SUNRISE COALITION

Kaitlin Wallace had her first child while living in Colorado. “I worked for an organization that covered chiropractic care, mental health care, and massage therapy, so I had access to services I couldn’t afford otherwise,” Kaitlin shares. “I saw the impact on my health and the ease of my pregnancies.” When she moved back to Chattanooga, her hometown, she was nearing the end of her second pregnancy and had trouble getting the care she needed and insurance didn’t cover as much as she hoped.

During her pregnancies, Kaitlin educated herself about pregnancy and postpartum fitness. “I got certified as a pre and postnatal fitness specialist,” she shares. “I became a personal trainer for pregnant and postpartum moms at a gym.” Kaitlin then noticed that she wasn’t alone, but many women found it difficult to afford the services they needed.

In 2022, Kaitlin had the idea to start a nonprofit to cover the costs of care not typically covered by insurance. The Sunrise Coalition was launched in 2025. “By the end of the year, we started providing care

and are excited to have already helped several women,” Kaitlin says.

The Sunrise Coalition partners with providers in the area and currently they offer doula services, pelvic floor therapy, mental health therapy, and access to the Bloom app for pregnancy and postpartum fitness. Kaitlin desires for the Sunrise Coalition to always be accessible and serve as many women as possible. “I hope to create awareness that there’s help and women can feel better about their bodies, themselves, and the transition of life,” she says.

Beyond providing services, the Sunrise Coalition is helping shift the conversation around maternal care in Chattanooga. By connecting women with resources that support both physical and emotional well-being, the organization is working to remove stigma and close gaps that often leave women feeling

isolated or overlooked. Kaitlin hopes to continue expanding partnerships with local providers and growing the reach of the nonprofit so that more women, regardless of financial circumstances, can access the care they deserve. At its core, the Sunrise Coalition is about empowering women to feel supported, informed, and confident throughout every stage of pregnancy and postpartum life.

The Sunrise Coalition will be at the Sunrise Summer Solstice Festival on June 20, 2026, providing the chance to connect with Kaitlin there and experience what the Sunrise Coalition is all about.

Follow the Sunrise Coalition on social media at @TheSunriseCoalition, visit SunriseCoalition.org, or email Kaitlin. Sunrise@gmail.com to learn more. You can also support their work financially or reach out to inquire about receiving care.

Women in Food: Estela Lopes Felipe

Accomplished Pastry Chef Brings Heart, Drive, and a World of Flavor to Her Next Adventure

Estela Lopes Felipe lives by a simple philosophy: “Do what you love, with love, and it’ll lead you to the right place.” So far, it’s served her well.

Hailing from São Paulo, Brazil, Felipe developed an early love for pastry and desserts, thanks to her Italian grandmother—an influence that also instilled a deep appreciation for the patience and precision that perfectly delicate pastries demand.

After culinary school in Brazil, Felipe went to France—first to Lyon for eight months of advanced pastry study, then six months at The Ritz in Paris. In 2017, she made the move to New York, where she interned as a pastry cook under renowned chef Daniel Boulud at his eponymous restaurant. While in New York, she met and married fellow chef Joe Milenkovic.

Three years later, the pandemic shuttered the restaurant industry almost overnight. Felipe and Milenkovic left New York for Florida, where his parents lived, keeping busy making and selling homemade pasta and pies to friends and neighbors.

After years in major cities, the appeal of a smaller, tight-knit community was hard to ignore. With New York firmly in the rearview mirror, the couple looked to Chattanooga—a city they’d visited before through Milenkovic’s extended family—and made it their home later that year.

ARTICLE BY KATE ROBERTSON PARRISH PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSALYN OLSON & GARAGE PHASE STUDIOS

The pair quickly made their mark on Chattanooga’s culinary scene. Milenkovic joined the team at Easy Bistro, while Felipe worked her way up from pastry cook to pastry chef at Niedlov’s Breadworks & Café—a role she held for four and a half years.

At Niedlov’s, Felipe built lasting relationships with colleagues and collaborators and brought her own touch to the menu, infusing creations with the flavors and influences she grew up with. She’s quick to share the credit. “It’s a team effort,” she says. “Everyone works together, and multiple people are involved in the recipes and creations.”

That collaborative spirit is matched by a relentless drive to improve. “I’m always thinking about how to make things better,” Felipe says. Now, she’s carrying this mindset into her most ambitious project yet.

Five years after arriving in Chattanooga, Felipe and Milenkovic are opening a restaurant of their own. Bona Fide—Latin for “in good

faith”—is the brain child of Felipe and Milenkovic, and friends and industry veterans Garth Poe, Rachel Holland, and Jared Padovani. Milenkovic will step in as executive chef; Lopes will head up the pastry program; Poe and Holland will lead the beverage program; and Padovani will serve as Project Manager. The vision, Felipe says, is “fun, funky, all of our personalities fused into one place.”

On the food side, Felipe and Milenkovic let the seasons lead the way, sourcing as locally as possible and building the menu around what’s fresh and available. Expect sophisticated pasta dishes and, of course, standout desserts from Felipe herself. Rounding out the experience is an extensive beverage program: cocktails, non-alcoholic options, and a curated wine list.

When asked what excites her most about opening Bona Fide, Felipe says, “Legacy, to build something for me and my family.” It’s about thinking long-term, about what she and her partners will bring to Chattanooga, to their families, to the people who walk through the door. “We want to help the community, create something awesome, and contribute something new and different to the culinary scene here.”

Looking back over her career, Felipe sees the through-line clearly. “Follow your heart and trust the process,” she says. “Every choice I made brought me closer to where I am.”

For a chef who has always followed her love of the craft, it looks like exactly the right place.

elea blake

WHERE BEAUTY FEELS PERSONAL

In a world of one-size-fits-all beauty, elea blake cosmetics offers something refreshingly unique. In the creative heart of Chattanooga, this boutique cosmetics studio has built a loyal following by redefining what can truly be.

Founded by Darin Wright in 1997, the brand was created with a simple yet revolutionary idea: beauty isn’t about trends, it’s about understanding your unique coloring. Named after her twins, Elea and Blake, the company blends artistry with science, using their custom color analysis system.

A mother-daughter team leads the brand, infusing every interaction with intention. “Daily I work onsite with Elea. While both my girls have worked at elea blake, Elea shares my passion of color. We both are passionate about helping people find joy in color and teaching them how to use color as a tool to look and feel their best. After 29 years I am still enjoying going to work everyday. A huge part of that is having a fun teammate,” says Darin.

Elea blake products are handcrafted in-house, with a focus on safe, effective ingredients and a commitment to individuality over mass appeal.

According to Darin, “As for work there is never a slow day. I always have batches to make or other administrative tasks that are typically put aside for such moments.”

So, how would the mastermind behind elea blake cosmetics describe herself? “Crafty creator, unmastered gardener, therapy person to Fred the dog, lover of all creatures, book lover, and committed to my family and friends,” says Darin.

The ladies of elea blake invite women to step away from comparison and instead embrace what already makes them radiant. Learn more at: eleablake.com

ARTICLE BY CHRISTINE WALDROP | BLLUUM

HAVE YOU MET HER?

Thoughtful Finds for Every Version of Her, Curated by Bluum’s Christine Waldrop

She’s the mom whose birthday you’re celebrating, the one that loves pink peonies and pearls. She’s the best friend you’ve known since college, the one who will drop anything to be there for you. She’s the daughter, whose ballet recital is next week, the one who will squeal at the presentation bouquet that’s just for her. She’s your partner in life, the one you literally couldn’t survive without, the one who always knows exactly what you need before you know yourself.

She’s the first to care for others... ...and the last to care for herself. There are a few precious moments at the end of the day—a quiet reprieve. An Eye Love Pillow is a relaxing entry point to sleep, heated for comfort or chilled for a refreshing cool—each lavender-filled pillow is one-of-a-kind—just like her.

She’s the hostess with the mostess... ...and her home is the designated “hangout home”. The food is incredible, the conversation flows, and memories are made at gorgeous tables layered with  Bespoke Ravello Linen Napkins and tablecloths with hand-designed florals.

She’s in her motherhood era... ...and is making the small yet fleeting moments count. Naptime comes with sweet stories featuring plush stuffies like Clucky the Chicken and extra snuggles with little ones who are growing way too fast.

She’s a breath of fresh air...

...authentic, bright and wonderful. A  Custom Floral Centerpiece filled with locally-grown stems is the perfect addition to the breakfast nook where she drinks her morning coffee and starts the day by sending check-in texts to the ones she loves.

She‘s bold and beautiful... ...and only the most fabulous gift will do. The Coco Clutch, hand-made from curated Turkish fabrics, is the wonderful piece she’d never buy herself, but would use for every occasion—even that quick trip to Publix.

People often ask me: “What’s the new ‘it’ gift or floral trend?” And, my reply is always “Well, who is this for?” Her story, your story, will always be the driving factor of a great gift and beautiful arrangement. I cherish hearing life updates and helping you love and care for the special individuals in your life. I believe in the art of intentionality—it’s why I created Blluum—gifting and care that extends beyond the item and focuses on who it represents, because: “Yes, I have met her. I’ve met her through your eyes. And, yes, I love her, too."

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.

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

MAY 1ST

Lavender Medi Spa Resurfacing Laser Launch

Lavender Medi Spa | 5:30 PM

Lavender Medi Spa is introducing its new resurfacing laser, featuring advanced, state-of-the-art technology designed to elevate skin care results. To celebrate, they are offering a limited-time pre-sale with exclusive introductory pricing. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this innovative treatment at a special rate. Contact Lavender Medi Spa today at 423-251-1694 to learn more and reserve your spot.

MAY 3RD

Scout’s Barbership Celebrates Four Years

Scout’s Barbership | 10:00 AM

Scout’s Barbershop is celebrating four years in Chattanooga with four days of festivities. Enjoy live music and sweet treats on May 3, enter to win four free haircuts on May 4, receive $4 off any haircut on May 5, and support Give Back Day on May 6, with 10% of sales benefiting local nonprofits. All events take place during regular business hours.

MAY 18TH

Medicare 101 with Medicare Misty

Mount Carmel Baptist | 6:00 PM

Learn everything you need to know about Medicare at the free educational event Medicare 101: Understanding Your Options with Confidence. Explore Medicare Parts A–D, compare supplements and Advantage plans, and learn how to avoid common mistakes. Join us Monday, May 18 at 6 PM at Mount Carmel Baptist Fellowship Hall on Signal Mountain. RSVP by calling 423-240-0794 to reserve your spot.