Elkhorn, NE March 2026

The HOME Issue

Clinicians Accepting New Patients

Welcome Home

Home is where life happens. The coffee spills, the laughter echoes and the messes somehow make it feel more like yours. It is where routines take shape, memories are made, and those little everyday moments suddenly feel kind of magical. In this Home Issue of Elkhorn City Lifestyle, we are celebrating the spaces that hold our stories and the local experts who help make them look and feel amazing.

Want a quick mood boost? A fresh coat of paint from CertaPro Painters of Omaha can do wonders, turning drab walls into bold statements or calming retreats in an afternoon.

Need a little style magic? Kimberly Cahoy Design proves that gorgeous interiors do not have to sacrifice comfort or function. It is the difference between a room that looks good and a room that makes you want to linger.

We also provide a glimpse into the work of GMS Werks, one of the region’s best and most tenured stone suppliers and manufacturers. Their design and fabrication are nothing short of works of art, and they boast the largest stone selection in the region.

And as the season changes, let’s not forget the outdoors. Midwest Lightscaping shows us that with the right lighting, your backyard or patio can become a cozy, inviting extension of your home. Think warm evenings, twinkling lights and spaces that are just as charming after dark as they are in daylight.

Garden View Manor is highlighted as well, a community that truly understands the meaning of home. Compassion, dignity and connection are at the heart of everything they do, giving residents a place that feels safe, supportive, and welcoming. For families, it’s the peace of mind knowing their loved ones are cared for with warmth and attention.

Thinking about selling or moving? This issue has you covered there, too. We asked the real estate pros to weigh in on how to seamlessly sell your home. From staging to photos, and what updates to tackle and what to skip.

So grab a cup of coffee, kick off your shoes, and enjoy this issue. We hope it inspires you to love your home a little more, think a little bigger about your space, and maybe even have a little fun along the way. After all, home is not just where we live, it is where life happens.

Cheers!

March 2026

PUBLISHER

Stephanie Lewis stephanie.m.lewis@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Hailey Zebley hailey.zebley@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Nichole Peringer

nichole.peringer@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Jennifer Studanski, Sammie Rodriguez, Jordan Carda, Kara Davis

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad

LAYOUT DESIGNER Lillian Gibbs

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

STEPHANIE LEWIS, PUBLISHER @ELKHORNCITYLIFESTYLE

Don’t miss a single moment. Schedule your consultation today by calling (402) 506-9970 or visiting vancethompsonvision.com.

The

Kimberly

Josh

Choosing a financial advisor isn’t just about today’s decisions.

the right people beside you as your life, priorities, and complexity evolve.

At Realize Wealth Management Group at Morgan Stanley, Aron Huddleston and Nick Nalbach work as part of a collaborative, experienced team focused on long-term planning, disciplined investment strategy, and continuity across generations.

A thoughtful approach, built to evolve as life does.

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: Creators of the Confidence Map at the kickoff celebration at Clothes Mentor. 2: The Virtue Group at eXp volunteered with Heartland Kids Against Hunger, packing more than 2,000 meals. 3: Coach MegS of LiVE iT FWD Coaching hosts monthly events at the Fabletics storefront at Village Pointe. 4: Powerful conversations and meaningful connections at the Women With Voices Summit. 5: Shelley Forsman of Forsman’s Finest Decks and Kelsey Nodgaard of Smart Move Organizing at the Women With Voices Summit. 6: Bold voices. Big energy. Zero apologies. Women With Voices Summit bringing the confidence, community and fun. 7: Kimberly Cahoy Design, Wurth Media, ECL and Simply Sorted at the OBO networking happy hour.

BEAUTIFUL GARAGE INTERIORS

GARAGE LIVING OMAHA transforms ordinary garages into extraordinary spaces, blending style with functionality. Our expert team redefines garages into personalized spaces—whether you’re looking for a sleek storage solution or a customized living space. Enhance your home’s appeal and lifestyle.

Visit our inspirational showroom 20115 Oak St., SE Corner of 204th & W. Center Rd. 402-506-6601 | garageliving.com/omaha

wellness goals and recovery

We deliver essential nutrients with care, precision and professionalism. Visit us at bloomivrestored.com

Lifetime Stone Restoration offers LSR1 Multi-Surface Cleaner

Looking for a cleaner that both protects and disinfects your stone surfaces? Seeing a need in the market, Lifetime Stone Restoration created LSR1 multi-surface cleaner when no suitable option existed. This pH-neutral formula safely cleans and disinfects marble, granite, ceramic, Corian, porcelain, glass, mirrors and most hard surfaces, preserving their natural beauty with every use. To order, call 402-916-1700.

Experience Luxury Dental Care at Innovative Dental

Dr. Summer Gutschow of Innovative Dental Care brings luxury to dentistry with a blend of cutting-edge technology and spa-inspired comfort in Omaha. A Creighton-trained dentist, she leads a practice known for same-day CEREC® crowns, discreet Invisalign® and advanced airway and cosmetic treatments tailored to discerning clients. At Innovative Dental, patients enjoy warm blankets, wireless headphones and genuine concierge-level care, elevating oral health into a truly indulgent experience.

Photography by Innovative Dental

Global Women’s Forum - A Gathering of Influence, Insight and Inspiration

The 2026 Global Women’s Forum is a distinguished one-day summit celebrating women’s empowerment, leadership and achievement. Set for March 7 at The Garden Theater in Omaha, it combines inspirational keynotes and expert panels with curated workshops, networking opportunities and interactive sessions designed to elevate personal and professional growth. A must-attend for the influential and aspirational, the forum champions connection, innovation and opportunity for women across industries.

opportunities for personal transformation. The award will support their food and labor costs as well as their free 10-day job training program.

Sun Valley Landscaping Recognized

Sun Valley Landscaping was recognized by the Omaha business community as Best of B2B for landscape and grounds maintenance. With more than 30 years of experience, the company specializes in creating and maintaining beautiful, functional outdoor spaces for commercial properties of all sizes. From seasonal maintenance and irrigation systems to custom landscaping and snow removal, Sun Valley ensures properties look their best year-round.

Finely Built. Forsman’s Finest.

Forsman’s Finest Decks designs and builds custom decks, patio covers, and outdoor living spaces across the Omaha area. From the design to the final touches, their team handles every step with professionalism and attention to detail. Known for high-quality craftsmanship, clear communication, and clean job sites, they take pride in creating beautiful, long-lasting outdoor spaces that bring families together and enhance the way you enjoy your home.

Brushstrokes of Belief

The People-First Philosophy Behind CertaPro of Omaha’s 25-Year Success Story

ARTICLE BY HAILEY ZEBLEY PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNIFER STUDANSKI AND CERTAPRO

For 25 years, Jarrod and Jodi Esser have built more than a painting business in Omaha. Through CertaPro®, they have created a people-first business known for reliability, craftsmanship and a team culture that feels more like family than workforce. What began as a leap of faith has grown into a full-service operation serving residential and commercial clients across the metro, from single-family homes to HOAs, schools, retail spaces and large industrial buildings.

Interior painting is available yearround, exterior projects typically running March through October, with estimates provided in every season to help homeowners plan ahead. That steady, structured approach reflects the Essers’ larger philosophy, to run a disciplined business, invest in the right people and never lose sight of the customer experience.

Yet behind the growth and longevity is a story rooted in family.

Jarrod studied finance while Jodi studied interior design at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Their early plan was simple: graduate and head to a bigger city. That changed when Jodi’s father was diagnosed with leukemia during college.

“Her father was diagnosed with a type of leukemia,” Jarrod says. “And with that, it really drove home the importance of family and being nearby.”

Nebraska, once a temporary stop, became home. What they initially saw as a quiet alternative slowly revealed

itself as the ideal place to build a family and a business. They discovered an opportunity in a painting franchise and decided to go for it. Jarrod had run a College Pro® franchise while at UNL, giving them practical experience, combined with Jodi’s design background, the partnership flourished.

Still, Jodi is quick to point out paint is only part of what they do.

“We’re in the painting business, but it’s really the service business. We serve people and help them create a space they love to be in,” Jodi says. “The world can be a crazy place, but at the end of the day, you go to your home and you want it to be a place you feel safe and where you want to spend time.”

“The world can be a crazy place, but at the end of the day, you go to your home and you want it to be a place you feel safe and where you want to spend time.”  “

That mindset shapes how they structure their teams. Crews are specialized, some focusing solely on interiors, while others handle exterior work. They are certified for lead abatement in homes built before 1978 and have restored historic properties, including a large Victorian built in the early 1900s.

“Doing a project like that is extremely labor intensive, but we are blessed with a crew that is always willing and ready to tackle complex projects,” Jodi says.

As the company has grown, so has their understanding of leadership.

“Just having our staff and watching our people grow, to gain new skill sets and work together as a team, is just mind-blowing. We used to think we had to do

CONTINUED >

everything ourselves, but it’s amazing how things really take off with the right people in the right positions,” Jarrod says.

Many painters have been with them for more than 15 years. The culture is intentionally tightknit, where clients see familiar faces and employees build careers.

The emotional heartbeat of the business is perhaps most visible each October through the Paint it Pink® campaign, which donates $15 per job to breast cancer research. Last year, they created a lasting memory that serves as a daily reminder of what their work means to others.

“This past year, we were connected to a woman who was fighting stage-four breast cancer, and one of her bucket list items was to get her house painted, because it had been 10 years since the house was built,” Jodi explains.

Jodi shares that in that moment she felt connected to the woman, who was also a mom, close in age, with a son in high school. She shared that in the time she spent with her, the more she realized how much life is taken for granted, how much she admired her resilience.

“She’s going through such a difficult thing. She can’t work and her brain’s not functioning the same because of her treatments. All the things we take for granted, she’s struggling with, but here she is just really happy,” Jodi shares. “There was this one flowering bush, and that’s what she talked about, because she could see the light in a lot of darkness.”

Ever since that connection was made, Jodi and Jarrod have felt their mission was clear: to help others and create a space that feels like home. The impact was long-lasting and extended to their entire team, who now participate in Paint it Pink® every year.

Today, CertaPro® of Omaha stands on 25 years of steady growth, strong systems and an unwavering belief that business is ultimately about people. Spring often brings a surge of requests as homeowners look to refresh their spaces.

“We always have a lot of requests for estimates in the spring, because as the weather changes, most feel that it’s time to spruce up the house,” Jodi says. “If you want to get ahead of the curve, call us early so we can get you an estimate and get your project scheduled.”

For the Essers, success is not defined by square footage painted or projects completed. It is measured in relationships built, teams developed and homes made more welcoming, one brushstroke at a time.

If you’re ready to bring new life to your home or business, the team at CertaPro® Painters of Omaha is just a call or click away. With a proven process, attentive communication and a passion for service, Jarrod and Jodi Esser and their crew make planning and completing a painting project easy and rewarding.

To schedule a free estimate or learn more about how CertaPro® can help refresh your space, call 402-493-5358 or visit omaha. certapro.com today. Their office at 8001 Chicago Street in Omaha welcomes conversations about interior and exterior work and creative ways to help your space look its best.

REDEFINING

Design

Kimberly Cahoy Designs More than Spaces

In an industry long shaped by hard hats, blueprints and established hierarchies, Kimberly Cahoy has carved out a space defined by confidence, integrity and an intentionally thoughtful process, proving that strong leadership and clear communication can transform how design is experienced.

Founded in May 2017, Kimberly Cahoy Design emerged after Cahoy stepped away from a company where she spent 16 years refining her skills and deepening her industry knowledge. The decision was fueled by experience, clarity and a guiding mantra she lives by daily. “You can do hard things, and I have done hard things,” she says. Inspired by her grandfather, Cahoy embraced the opportunity to build something of her own grounded in resilience and driven by purpose.

Early in her career, Cahoy gained firsthand insight into the dynamics of a traditionally male-dominated industry. Rather than viewing those moments as barriers, she saw them as opportunities to sharpen her voice, strengthen her expertise, and demonstrate reliability through action. She focused on what she could control: her work ethic, follow-through, and professionalism.

“It was a lot of selling myself and gaining trust,” she says. “I do what I say I’m going to do and I follow through. I’m not always perfect, but if I don’t have the answers, I will find them.” Over time, experience replaced uncertainty, and confidence reshaped how she showed up and how others responded.

Today, Cahoy’s firm remains intentionally small. Boutique by design, it offers full-service residential interior design and complete project oversight from start to finish, with a particular specialty in new builds and complex space planning. Her strength lies in her ability to evaluate plans critically and reimagine them with both creativity and precision.

“I love full service where I’m in control of a project from start to finish,” Cahoy says. “My bread and butter is full-service design and new builds.”

At the heart of Kimberly Cahoy Design is a commitment to guiding clients through every phase of the design journey with clarity and care. The firm specializes in luxury residential remodels, new construction, and custom cabinetry, offering comprehensive interior design that begins long before finishes are selected. From early space planning and detailed design development to contractor collaboration and final installation, each step is thoughtfully managed to ensure both beauty and function.

Clients are invited into a structured yet highly personal process that includes in-person consultations, curated material selections, 3D visualizations, and full furnishings procurement. By overseeing vendor coordination, product sourcing, and on-site styling, the team creates a seamless experience that allows homeowners to feel confident, supported, and deeply connected to the spaces taking shape around them.

With a background in cabinetry, Cahoy brings a rare balance of form and function to every project. Her process begins long before finishes are selected. “I love getting into the weeds with homeowners to understand how they live,” she explains. “I’ll tear apart a plan to make sure it’s efficient for the homeowner and that every space truly works for them.”

Clients do not simply hire Cahoy; they begin a collaborative relationship with her. After an initial inquiry and consultation, she thoughtfully selects projects and personalities that align with her firm’s values and approach. With new construction often spanning two years or more, transparency and communication are essential.

“You can communicate hard news,” she says. “Clients may be disappointed in the moment, but if you’re honest and proactive, they feel supported. They know someone is advocating for them and that solutions are already in motion.”

No two days are ever the same. A wellplanned morning can quickly pivot due to delayed deliveries, rescheduled meetings, or job-site curveballs. While the pace can be demanding, Cahoy sees this adaptability as part of the value she brings.

KIMBERLY CAHOY | KCAHOYDESIGN.COM

Kimberly Cahoy is the founder of Kimberly Cahoy Design, established in 2017 and shaped by more than two decades of interior design experience and architectural training. Known for her solution-driven, visionary approach, she creates refined interiors for Omaha’s most discerning clients. Kimberly is an allied ASID member and holds memberships with NKBA and the Professional Remodeling Organization of NE & IA.

From new construction to renovations, KCD covers all aspects, from initial plans to finish selections.

“I do what I say I’m going to do and I follow through. If I don’t have the answers, I will find them.”

Construction does not have to feel overwhelming, and her role is to guide clients through the process with clarity and confidence, protecting both their investment and their peace of mind.

That philosophy extends beyond her firm and into the industry as a whole. Cahoy recognizes that media portrayals and informal advice can sometimes blur the realities of professional design. Rather than resisting that narrative, she focuses on education and continuous improvement. “I have a process, and I’m always refining it,” she says. “When designers, contractors and builders learn from experience and improve how they operate, the entire industry benefits. Remodeling and construction don’t have to be stressful. I want the process to be enjoyable.”

Behind her professional success is a strong support system. Her husband and children have witnessed firsthand what it takes to build a business rooted in values. Friends, former colleagues, fellow business owners and professional organizations provide perspective and encouragement. “Surround yourself with good people, especially other female business owners,” Cahoy says. “If you find the right community, there are incredible resources to help you grow.”

Authenticity anchors her brand. After recently formalizing her mission, vision and culture statements, Cahoy found affirmation in what she had always practiced intuitively: alignment. “What you see with me is what you get,” she says.

That authenticity extends to every relationship she builds. Client referrals are the highest compliment. Handwritten thank-you notes, coffee check-ins, and thoughtful follow-up are not tactics, they are expressions of genuine appreciation. “I keep doing this because of the clients who truly value what I bring to the table,” she says. To learn more about Kimberly Cahoy Design or to schedule a consultation, visit kcahoydesign.com .

The Real Estate Compass You Didn’t Know

You Needed

Buying or selling a home isn’t just a transaction—it’s a major turning point. It’s emotional, financial, and personal. That’s why you need more than someone to unlock doors—you need a guide.

I help clients navigate every step, from prepping a home to writing smart offers and negotiating the right terms. Whether you’re buying, selling, or investing, I bring strategy, experience, and clear communication.

AND

ARTICLE BY BY HAILEY ZEBLEY PHOTOGRAPHY BY MIDWEST LIGHTSCAPING

Josh Reeves on Design-First Landscape Lighting and Creating Outdoor Spaces

That Come Alive After Dark

Illuminating

the Night

When the sun goes down, most homes disappear into the dark. For Josh Reeves, that moment is where the real work begins.

As the founder of Midwest Lightscaping, Reeves has built a business around a simple belief: exterior lighting is not about fixtures or brightness; it is about feeling, about how a home looks, moves and comes alive after dark.

FROM PASSION TO PURPOSE

“I always wanted to own my own business, but I didn’t know what that was going to be,” Reeves says. “I just developed a real passion for it and wanted to go out on my own and see if I was able to do it in a more efficient way.”

That passion became Midwest Lightscaping in 2011, after years spent in sales and management roles across multiple industries. What began as an interest quickly turned into a craft, blending technical precision with creative design. Nearly two decades into his lighting career, Reeves now leads a design-driven firm that focuses exclusively on landscape and architectural lighting, setting it apart in a competitive market.

LIGHTING AS A DESIGN DISCIPLINE

Lighting, Reeves explains, is both art and discipline. His team studies how people actually use their outdoor spaces, then build layered lighting scenes that enhance architecture, highlight landscaping and guide movement, all while carefully managing glare and sightlines.

“We’re constantly studying it, watching trends, watching new product lines and testing new ideas,” he says. “Landscape lighting is what brings everything to life after dark.”

Rather than illuminating a single object, Midwest Lightscaping focuses on cohesion. Trees, stone, pathways and architectural details are treated as parts of a whole. The result is lighting that feels intentional, warm and inviting rather than overly bright or decorative.

“What we do best is creating scenes versus just lighting up an object,” Reeves explains. “We create layers with the lighting, finding focal points and other interesting parts of the landscape that you might not necessarily consider, but pull the whole project together.”

GUIDING CLIENTS THROUGH THE CREATIVE PROCESS

Clients often arrive without a clear vision, and Reeves prefers it that way. The design process is collaborative but guided, allowing his team to introduce ideas homeowners may not have known were possible. Visualizing the final result is a key part of that experience.

Rather than relying heavily on digital renderings, Midwest Lightscaping leans on real-world examples. Clients are led through galleries of completed projects, where Reeves can point out specific techniques and explain how similar concepts might be applied to their own homes.

“We love showing you the things we can do and coming up with new ideas,” Reeves says.

CONTINUED

“WHAT WE WANT TO DO IS CREATE ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING THAT SHOWS OFF THOSE DETAILS. WE WANT TO CREATE SOMETHING WITH PURPOSE THAT ACCENTUATES EXISTING ARCHITECTURE.”

FROM CONSULTATION TO REVEAL NIGHT

Depending on the scope, some projects move quickly, with plans and pricing developed on the spot. Larger designs may require additional planning, samples and follow-up meetings. Once installed, the process culminates in what Reeves calls a reveal night, a walkthrough after dark to finetune every detail.

“Once the project is installed, we’ll go through and make sure every little detail has been addressed. Then, we do our reveal night walkthrough with you to make sure we got everything just right,” he says.

Communication and coordination does not stop there; following each project Reeves remains a resource clients can come to with any questions or concerns.

LIGHTING FOR NEW BUILDS AND ESTABLISHED HOMES

Midwest Lightscaping works with both new construction and established homes. Reeves is especially passionate about being involved early in new builds, where lighting is often treated as an afterthought. By collaborating with builders from the start, his team can integrate lighting that complements materials, color temperature and architectural style.

“What we want to do is create architectural lighting that shows off those details,” he says. “We want to create something with purpose that accentuates existing architecture.”

A THOUGHTFUL TAKE ON MODERN TRENDS

The company has also taken a measured approach to one of the industry’s fastest-growing trends: permanent roofline lighting. Initially skeptical, Reeves worked to identify a solution that would enhance, rather than flatten, a home’s design.

“Our idea is to use traditional landscape lighting and architectural lighting throughout the year, and then use this product when you want to highlight or celebrate a holiday or special event,” he says.

For Reeves, the most rewarding moment never changes.

“Being able to share that passion with homeowners and our partners and having that big reveal at the end, that’s the best part.”

To learn more about Midwest Lightscaping or to schedule a consultation, visit midwestlightscaping.com or call 402-321-1380

Small by Design, Big on Care

Inside Garden View Manor’s Thoughtful Approach to Aging in Place

For Bret and Christi Johnson, Garden View Manor began as a deeply personal response to what they experienced in caring for their loved ones. They envisioned a more intimate, home-like setting where seniors could receive individualized attention, meaningful engagement and the dignity of aging in place. That vision, shaped by years of research, training and persistence, ultimately became Garden View Manor, a residential assisted-living

ARTICLE BY HAILEY ZEBLEY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNIFER STUDANSKI AND GARDEN VIEW MANOR

A shared living area where residents can converse with one another while maintaining a sense of home

community in Elkhorn designed to feel less like a facility and more like home.

“When my mom went through the big environments, it just sealed the deal,” Christi says. “A warm environment that feels like home is something seniors need.”

That experience sparked years of research into residential-assisted-living, a model already gaining traction in parts of the country. About 10 years ago, the Johnsons trained in Phoenix under Gene Guarino, a national leader versed in converting homes into elder-care environments.

“We were one of the first classes going through this training,” Christi says, sharing that though Guarino has since passed, his impact on their lives provided them

purpose. “He showed us there is a better way to do this, and Garden View Manor is the product of his mentorship.”

Financing the vision proved challenging. Banks were unfamiliar with the residential assisted-living model, and it took years of persistence, education and industry training to secure the resources needed to build Garden View Manor from the ground up. Today, the home stands in a quiet residential neighborhood in Elkhorn, designed to feel warm and personal rather than clinical.

Garden View Manor accommodates up to eight residents, each with their own bedroom, supported by a high caregiver-to-resident ratio of four residents to one

“We try to build an environment that feels like family, where we can create a community amongst one another.”

caregiver. This level of staffing allows the team to truly know each resident’s habits, preferences and needs.

“The ability to give that much more care to people, it’s huge,” Bret says.

The home serves a wide range of seniors, from those who are largely independent to those who require memory care or hospice levels of support. Residents can age in place through the end of life, with hospice brought in as needed.

“Our goal and our mission is that when a resident moves in, it’s the last move they have to make. They can be comfortable and happy in years that are otherwise challenging and full of change,” Bret says.

While Garden View Manor does not provide medical care directly, it works closely with local health professionals. A partnered APRN group conducts weekly health assessments, manages medications and remains on call for concerns. Physical and occupational therapists come on-site, minimizing the need for residents to leave the home. A home health agency responds, orders and performs tests in the home and sends labs directly without requiring clinic visits.

Alongside partnerships that provide efficient medical aid, the Johnsons share that administrative assistant Jennifer Soby has helped shape the culture of Garden

View Manor, with residents and their families adoring the work she does and the care she provides.

“She just has such a big heart and does an excellent job making our families feel safe and welcomed,” Christi says.

Both Christi and Bret share that without the help of caretakers like Soby, day-to-day work would not be possible with the level of care that they provide.

“We know our residents so well because of that resident-to-caregiver ratio,” Christi says. “Because they get more personalized care, our caregivers can provide insight into behavior changes, whether it’s something serious, something medical or even if it’s just a change in mood or personality that can be fixed with more interaction or activities within the home.”

Daily life at Garden View Manor centers on comfort and familiarity. Meals are home-cooked and planned weekly around residents’ preferences, including favorite snacks. Activities are personalized to each resident’s interests and skills. The home brings in pet therapy, live performers and interactive programs to keep residents engaged and active.

The physical environment reinforces the feeling of home. The house includes eight bedrooms, five bathrooms and a deck with covered and uncovered areas. A generator

provides added security during power outages, an uncommon feature among assisted-living facilities.

Equally important is the family culture the Johnsons have built. They encourage residents’ families to get to know one another and host seasonal gatherings like Christmas parties with Santa and Mrs. Claus, Independence Day celebrations and Thanksgiving meals where residents can still feel like they are hosting their loved ones.

“We try to build an environment that feels like family,” Christi says. “We want our residents’ family members to get to know each other and create a community.”

For the Johnsons, Garden View Manor is not just a business. It is the kind of place they would choose for their own future.

“Down the road, when I get to that age, where do I want to go? What do I want my life to be like when I’m that age? This is just an alternative for people,” Bret says.

By blending personalized care, a warm setting and strong medical partnerships, Garden View Manor offers seniors and their families a compassionate option rooted in dignity, connection and peace of mind.

To learn more about life at Garden View Manor, visit gardenviewelkhorn.com or call Bret and Christi at (531) 999-2264

STONE With a Story

Inside G.M.S. Wërks, an Omaha Legacy Built on Timeless Materials and Meticulous Craftsmanship

ARTICLE BY STEPHANIE LEWIS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KARA SHAWN PHOTOGRAPHY

Luxury has a way of revealing itself in the details. The cool edge of a marble island. The quiet confidence of a perfectly fitted stone surround. The kind of craftsmanship you feel before you ever name it. That’s where G.M.S. Wërks comes in.

Rooted in Omaha and built on a century of expertise, G.M.S. Wërks has been shaping stone and spaces since 1924. What began as a terrazzo and mosaic operation has evolved into one of the region’s most trusted names in custom stone fabrication, blending old-world skill with modern precision and artistry.

Step into their showroom and fabrication facility, and the difference is immediate. Towering slabs of marble, granite, quartz and natural stone are displayed not just as materials, but as possibilities. Each slab tells its own story, waiting to become a kitchen centerpiece, a spa-like bath retreat or a bold architectural statement.

While the materials are timeless, the process is anything but dated. G.M.S. Wërks pairs hands-on craftsmanship with advanced technology, utilizing CNC equipment, waterjet cutting and digital templating to ensure every cut, seam and edge is executed flawlessly. The result is stonework that feels intentional, refined and effortless.

What truly sets G.M.S. Wërks apart is its role as a partner in the design process. Architects, builders, designers and homeowners rely on the team not just to fabricate, but to collaborate. Their guidance, problem-solving and attention to detail elevate every project, building relationships rooted in trust and shared standards of excellence.

In a world of fast trends, G.M.S. Wërks artists at work remain focused on longevity, integrity and spaces that age beautifully.

To learn more, visit gmswerks.com or schedule a showroom visit to experience their expansive inventory firsthand.

SETTING THE STAGE FOR SOLD

When a home hits the market, preparation begins long before a for-sale sign is placed in the yard. Preparing your home for sale is not about chasing perfection; it’s about creating a space that feels cared for, inviting and easy for buyers to imagine as their own. With spring marking an upswing to home-selling season, we asked local real estate professionals to share their best advice for selling quickly and with less stress.

DON’T UNDERESTIMATE THE POWER OF CURB APPEAL

Rick Lebeda, Realtor at eXp Realty, brings more than a decade of construction and renovation experience to real estate, giving him a practical perspective on what truly matters to buyers.

“Curb appeal is a big deal,” Lebeda explains. “Your house will make an impression within minutes of a potential buyer pulling into the driveway.”

That first impression starts outside. Manicured lawns, trimmed hedges and a clean exterior go a long way. Power washing, touching up paint and refreshing a front door can signal pride of ownership without a major investment.

CLEAR THE CLUTTER AND SET THE STAGE

Inside, decluttering is one of the most impactful steps sellers can take. Clear countertops, remove excess furniture and open up closets and drawers. Toys and unused items should be packed away, ideally stored offsite. Deep cleaning is essential. Walls, baseboards, vents, carpets and windows should all be addressed, especially in homes with pets. Odors and minor maintenance issues should never be overlooked.

Brittney McAllister, founder of aro Real Estate Group at Realty One Group Sterling, brings a decade of experience, a marketing background and national recognition to her approach.

“Your house doesn’t need to be perfect, but it does need to feel cared for,” McAllister

says. “Buyers are being very picky right now, because they have that ability. They need to see themselves living in the house.”

Staging, McAllister notes, is not about trends. “Staging is a strategy. It helps showcase the space and helps buyers understand the flow,” she explains. “Rearranging furniture, maximizing natural light and incorporating neutral accents can make rooms feel larger and more inviting. Professional photography should come only after the home is clean and staged.”

ADDRESS WHAT MATTERS MOST

While presentation sets the tone, condition builds confidence. Nick Navarrette of Arbor Key Realty Group encourages sellers to approach repairs with a clear and

practical plan that keeps both safety and buyer appeal in mind.

“I emphasize repairs with my sellers and what’s going to be the most bang for their buck,” Navarrette says.

He recommends grouping projects into two categories. “We group the repairs into the must-do’s and then the ones that we can kind of just push to the side,” he explains.

“YOUR HOUSE DOESN’T NEED TO BE PERFECT, BUT IT DOES NEED TO FEEL CARED FOR. BUYERS ARE BEING PICKY RIGHT NOW, BECAUSE THEY HAVE THAT ABILITY. THEY NEED TO SEE THEMSELVES LIVING IN THE HOUSE.”

By handling at least the simple items that surface, sellers can reduce surprises later and strengthen negotiating power.

PRICE RIGHT THE FIRST TIME

Pricing is another critical factor. Cali Rethwisch, founder of the Virtue Group at eXp Realty, emphasizes getting it right from the start.

“If you price it correctly the first time, you’re maximizing the buyers through the door,” Rethwisch explains. “Overpricing can stall interest and create suspicion.”

When it comes to updates, Rethwisch advises focusing on return on investment. Kitchens and bathrooms tend to deliver the strongest value, while cosmetic updates like fresh paint or new flooring can make a meaningful impact without overspending.

CONSULT WITH PROFESSIONALS

Working with a trusted real estate professional is key to a successful sale. Meet with a realtor and loan officer early to understand true costs and potential profit, including closing expenses and repairs. Review marketing and showing strategies, interview multiple agents and choose one committed to ongoing guidance while setting realistic expectations for pricing and timing.

MARCH 10TH – 15TH

Omaha Film Festival

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

Aksarben Cinema, 2110 South 67th St., Omaha | 5:45 PM

Step into the energy of the Omaha Film Festival, where bold independent films light up the screen and filmmakers share the stories behind their craft. From thought-provoking premieres to engaging conversations, this celebration of cinema invites you to experience fresh voices and unforgettable storytelling firsthand. Learn more at omahafilmfestival.org.

MARCH 14TH

Omaha’s 148th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade

16th Street and Capitol Avenue, Omaha | 11:00 AM

The Omaha’s 148th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade threads vibrant color, music and festive spirit through city streets, inviting everyone to savor community energy, lively costumes and Irish tradition as bands march and crowds cheer in this cherished celebration of heritage.

MARCH 14TH & 20TH

The Power of Exercise + Connection

LiVE iT FWD Studio, 192nd and Giles

Join Coach MegS of LiVE iT FWD Coaching for the Power of Exercise + Connection, blending strength training with community and movement. This event offers women an alternative to routine workouts and leaves you energized, grounded and more confident in your body and mind. The March 14 session begins at 10 a.m., and the March 20 session begins at 12 p.m. Learn more at liveitfwd.com.

CONTINUED

MARCH 19TH

The Harlem Globetrotters 100 Year Tour

Baxter Arena, 2425 S. 67th St., Omaha | 7:00 PM

Experience the iconic flair of the Harlem Globetrotters as they bring dazzling ball-handling, comedy and crowd thrills under one roof - a spirited show that blurs the line between sport and spectacle and invites fans of all ages to cheer along.

MARCH 21ST

Nebraska Humane Society Spring Supply Drive

8929 Fort St., Omaha | 10:00 AM

Lend a hand at the Nebraska Humane Society Spring Supply Drive, where caring neighbors help gather essential goodies for shelter pets in need. Come out for a simple, feel-good way to support animals and boost community compassion this season. Learn more at nehumanesociety.org.

MARCH 21ST

DIY: Spring Container Design by Mulhall's

3615 N 120th St., Omaha | 10:00 AM

Get inspired with Mulhall's Spring Container Design, a hands-on demo that unlocks creative planting ideas and practical tips for gorgeous seasonal planters, perfect for refreshing patios and doorsteps with color and style this spring.