SEPTEMBER 2020
CityLifestyle.com/WestChesterandLiberty
EVERYDAY FASHION T-SHIRT TIME
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LIFESTYLE LETTER
SEPTEMBER 2020 PUBLISHER
Michelle Moody | Michelle.Moody@LifestylePubs.com EDITOR
Laura Leavitt | Laura.Leavitt@LifestylePubs.com
Everyday Fashion IF I’M BEING COMPLETELY HONEST, OVER THE PAST FIVE MONTHS I’VE ONLY WORN “WORK CLOTHES” ABOUT TEN TIMES. I attend video calls in the new “waist-up” work attire that’s become so popular (professional tops paired with shorts, jeans or even pajamas on the bottom). Instead of putting on lipstick before I head out the door, I pick out a cute face mask. Fashion today looks much different than it did a year ago. In light of those trends, this year’s fashion issue is all about everyday comfort and
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Tera Michelson AD DESIGNER
Matthew Endersbe LAYOUT DESIGNER
Dana Rudolph CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Katie Bray, Alexandra Frost, Tera Michelson CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Len Kaltman—West Chester Corporate Photography, Ali Wolfe
practicality. On page 28, we show how to express yourself through creative custom t-shirts while helping raise money for local charities and small businesses. Face masks are here to stay for a while, so we sought out styles that display your personal passions. We also catch up with some of West Chester's most sought-after models who are making their mark on the international fashion and beauty industry, Leah and Erin Eliopulos. Many people in our community have rallied to find ways to give back during the pandemic. In this month's Giving Back story, we spotlight the grassroots efforts of
CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor
Sew Masks 4 Cincy.
OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson
This is just some of what we have in store for you this month. So get comfy in your
REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams
AD MANAGER Chad Jensen
favorite pair of jeans and read more about everyday fashion.
WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell
Michelle Moody, Publisher Michelle.Moody@LifestylePubs.com ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MASSACHUSETTS | MICHIGAN MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA | NEVADA | NEW JERSEY | NEW YORK
CityLifestyle.com/WestChesterandLiberty
ON THE COVER Get the look! Jeans and bracelet from Interiors Plus in Mason, T-shirt see page 28 and face mask see page 34.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY LEN KALTMAN—WEST CHESTER CORPORATE PHOTOGRAPHY 6
West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle | September 2020
NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON | PENNSYLVANIA SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON
514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO Proverbs 3:5-6 West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the West Chester & Liberty areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.
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INSIDE THE ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2020
FEATURES 14 Set Your Stage Local Photographer Gives Tips for Great Video Calls
23 Striking Poses Hometown Models Leah & Erin Eliopulos Share About Their Careers and Fashion Favorites
28 T-Time Throw a Fashion Fundraiser with Sara Hickman Designs
34 Fashion + Function Put Your Best Face Forward
28 23
with Face Masks That Express Your Personality
34
14
DEPARTMENTS 6
Lifestyle Letter
10
Good Times
12
Around Town
14 DIY 18
Locally Owned
23 Trend Setter 28 Local Limelight 32 Lifestyle Calendar 34 Local’s Choice
INTRODUCING WEST CHESTER ACADEMY’S
LEARNING HUB
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A great alternative if you want a smaller environment than school and more support and socialization than may be available at home. • Academic Monitors help students stay on track and answer questions • Healthy, safe place to learn • High speed WiFi for each student
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• Structured physical fitness class each day • Socialization within small groups • Full day or half day • Supplemental enrichment options available
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H I L LT O P CO N T I N U E S T O H E R E FO R A L L YO U R F E M A L E H E A LT H C A R E N E E D S
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9
GOOD TIMES 1.
2.
3.
Front Steps Project Leslie Renneker wanted to use her photography skills to give back during the pandemic, so she brought the Front Steps Project to town. Leslie took free family portraits in exchange for donations to Shared Harvest, the Fairfield food bank serving five counties. In 18 days she photographed 75 families and raised enough for almost 10,000 meals! LESLIE RENNEKER PHOTOGRAPHY WholeLottaJoy.com
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
1. The Amin Family | 2. The Bing Family | 3. The Bramblett Family | 4. The DeMonge Family | 5. The Dixon Family | 6. The Herkins Family | 7. The Maddux Family | 8. They Wyckoff Family | 9. The Wojno Family | 10. The Stafford Family | 11. The Rosenbeck Family | 12. The Davis Family 10
West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle | September 2020
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11
AROUND TOWN
NEW LEARNING HUB
it themselves. Over the next few months, this area
West Chester Academy (WCA) launched a Learning
will also experience beautiful new landscaping and
Hub to provide assistance and extra-curricular oppor-
design that will make the interchange particularly
tunities for virtual learning students. The Learning Hub
visually appealing. WestChesterOH.org
is for families who registered their first through eighth graders for an e-learning platform, but don’t wish to host the learning at their home. WCA will provide in-person Academic Monitors to ensure a schedule is followed, assignments are being completed and students are engaged with their virtual classes.
SONITROL OF SOUTHWEST OHIO ACQUIRES SONITROL OF BUTLER COUNTY Sonitrol of SW Ohio has acquired Sonitrol of Butler County and Southwestern Ohio Security. The
As part of their daily curriculum, students will have
firm, which operates an independent franchise of
a structured physical fitness class and the option to
Sonitrol under the Shiver Security name, has served
add on music and theater opportunities. Space is
the Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky areas
limited. For additional details including costs and
since 1971. The expansion is reflective of both their
program hours, contact WCA at 513.829.2345.
ongoing commitment to local and surrounding
WestChesterAcademy.com
FORT LIBERTY PLAYLAND ADDS STORYWALK
communities as well as a market need in both the residential and commercial security sectors. “We’re excited about the opportunity to do what we do best for even more people and businesses
Liberty Township and the MidPointe Library
across Southwest Ohio and Central Ohio”, says
System have partnered on a 16-panel storywalk,
Chip Shiver, President of Shiver Security Systems
where a story is shared in panels along a walkway,
and Sonitrol of SW Ohio. “Our technology, our local
at Fort Liberty Playland. The storywalk begins just
monitoring station, and our ever-important part-
past Fort Liberty's playground and continues down
nership with local police are the key factors in our
the walking path toward Reserves Park. The first
continued growth. It’s always about people and we
featured book is "What a Treasure!" by Jane and
believe we have the very best talent in the region
Will Hillenbrand; the book will change every few
when it comes to professional security.”
months. Liberty-Township.com
Congratulations, Sonitrol of SW Ohio and Shiver Security! ShiverSecurity.com SonitrolSW.com
GOLF OUTINGS THIS FALL This fall is a great time to sharpen your golf game for good causes in the West Chester and Liberty area. On September 18, raise money and enjoy a fun day on the golf course with Mother Teresa Catholic Elementary School at Walden Ponds Golf Club. You’ll enjoy delicious food and drinks and lighthearted contests while benefiting education in our community. Learn more and register at the website. MTCES.org Join the West Chester Liberty Chamber Alliance for a golf outing at the Heritage Club on September 22, either during the morning or afternoon flights. Sponsorships and tickets are available online.
UNDERSTANDING THE NEW DIVERGING DIAMOND INTERCHANGE
12
TheChamberAlliance.com EDGE Teen Center, in partnership with local business networking organization Linkinnati, will host its
The new Diverging Diamond Interchange at Union
annual Golf Outing scramble on Friday, October 9 at
Centre has been completed and will allow for better
Hamilton Elks Golf Club. Tee time is 9 a.m. The cost is
traffic flow through the busy I-75 intersection. This
$125 and includes breakfast, an 18-hole shotgun start,
style of intersection creates a free-flowing traffic area
cold beverages throughout the course, contests,
but may be new to some drivers. The Butler County
prizes and lunch. For details or sponsorship oppor-
Engineer’s Office has videos on their website to help
tunities, visit the website. Proceeds support EDGE
motorists understand the traffic flow before they drive
programs for local teens. EDGETeenCenter.com
West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle | September 2020
At locally owned Skally’s we’re committed to higher quality delicious food using no preservatives or chemicals. We make all our products – including salad dressings, BBQ sauce, and desserts. Try the best gluten-free pizza in Cincinnati. We are excited for you to taste and experience the difference!
Cocktails, Great Food & Fun! CATERING WITH DELIVERY SERVICE IS NOW AVAILABLE! Please contact us for additional information
e n o y r e v E r o f g in Someth In the Streets of West Chester at 9558 Civic Center Blvd, Suite D // 513-342-5004 // SkallysRestaurant.com
Join us this September as we read Just Mercy by Bryan Stevenson together as a COMMUNITY READ In a time when things are feeling very “distanced,” we hope this Community Read helps to broaden and deepen an appreciation of reading and compel friends, families and neighbors to share their experience while reading the same book. The project is further intended to engage the community in dialogue and seeks to bring the community together by promoting equality and understanding. Check out the book from MidPointe Library System and join in the conversation online.
Join in with #JUSTMERCY
www.MidPointeLibrary.org CityLifestyle.com/WestChesterandLiberty
13
DIY
S e t Yo u r
Sta g e ARTICLE ALEXANDRA FROST PHOTOGRAPHY ALI WOLFE
THE PANDEMIC HAS SENT EMPLOYEES FROM A VARIETY OF INDUSTRIES ONLINE FOR WORK CALLS, WITH EVERYONE FROM TEACHERS TO ARCHITECTS TO DOCTORS USING ZOOM TO CONNECT WITH CLIENTS AND COWORKERS. The one thing we all have in common as we switch to virtual meetings is the desire to look our best on our calls, which can be a bit more difficult than it seems. We’ve all had an instance when we see our own reflection on our computers and realize the lighting isn’t right or we just don’t look quite how we want to. Luckily, local third-generation professional photographer Ali Wolfe of Ali Wolfe Photography has been helping clients look photo-ready for years. “Things that are helpful include brighter spaces... You want bright and clean and fresh looking. Crisp spaces,” she says. We tend to clutter up our background area on accident while trying to make it look nice, when really a freshly painted wall and a piece of non-distracting artwork will do the trick, she recommends. “I wouldn’t [have artwork or decorations] with words, as we are drawn to try to read something. For example, don’t have the word “Eat” behind you if you are [Zooming] from your kitchen.” Instead, she recommends natural window light, a paint color that isn’t too dark, and very basic backgrounds. When it comes to the angle of your computer and your image, Ali says to remember how you take a selfie: “higher angles are better.”
LOCAL PHOTOGRAPHER GIVES TIPS FOR GREAT VIDEO CALLS
“We’ve all heard horror stories of looking up someone’s nose,” she says. “Don’t get crazy high with [computer camera] angles... it’s not a glamour shot.” Basically, she recommends trying to simulate the angles and familiarity of a normal face to face meeting or conversation.
14
West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle | September 2020
+ OPT FOR SOLIDS + FACE YOUR LIGHT SOURCE
Whether you have a beautiful large window, or a smaller lamp in your basement, put the light source in front and above you for
Choose solid-colored outfits (like black or navy) over a busy pattern, then add polished accessories for a pop of color. These fun hues can be in the form of a statement piece of jewelry, a lip color or a tie.
even and bright lighting on your face. Avoid the half-lit look that happens when your light source is to your side or the silhouette look when the light is behind you
+ DON’T OVERDO YOUR LOOK
Ali recalls a client who didn’t recognize herself because she’d had her hair done in a glamorous updo before family photos, and she thought it didn’t really look like her. To avoid this, do everything the way you would
+ JUST TURN OFF THE VIDEO SOMETIMES
Often you will be able to focus more on the important work in your meeting if you aren’t worried about how you look, Ali says. “In-person, we don’t have the ability to think about those things. The other person isn’t even looking for it, but we are being hypercritical, tweaking [how we look] throughout the meeting. Just be.”
on an average day. “Obviously during quarantine, everyone looks more casual, so do an average day pre-pandemic!” she says.
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West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle | September 2020
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LOCALLY OWNED ARTICLE KATIE BRAY | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
SEW MASK S 4 CINCY SEWING EXPERTS BRING HEART AND HANDS TO HELP LOCAL HEALTHCARE WORKERS
SEVERAL MONTHS AGO, AS COVID-19 BECAME A GLOBAL PANDEMIC AND MASKS BECAME SCARCE, TWO LOCAL WOMEN BEGAN A GRASSROOTS EFFORT TO HAVE VOLUNTEERS SEW AND DONATE MASKS TO FRONTLINE HEALTHCARE WORKERS. On March 19, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) changed its guidelines and announced that medical professionals could use bandanas as a last resort to cover the face if they ran out of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Esther Kang was in a small group through Crossroads Church and called another member that works at UC Health to ask if she should get some people together to sew masks. The next day at noon, Sew Masks 4 Cincy started as a Facebook group and grew to 500 members by the end of the day. From day one, the group started working closely with TriHealth on the design and style of the 100-percent cotton masks. By the next day, Esther, founder and executive director of Sew Masks 4 Cincy, had an interview with WKRC alongside Lorel Studer, TriHealth speciality clinical nurse leader, and Jeff Norton, vice president for the TriHealth Institute for Safety, Reliability and Clinical Performance. After this interview aired, within only 72 hours of first creating the Facebook page, the group had more than 6,000 members.
18
West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle | September 2020
Esther realized she needed help with logistics and called upon another friend and member of the Crossroads small group to help. Courtney DeGeorge-Allen became the official director of communications and volunteer management. Courtney helped with infrastructure and to streamline the organization as much as possible, ensuring a good outward-facing appearance and a seamless system. “It truly felt like we launched a non-profit overnight,” Courtney remembers. “It was sort of a sprint at first, and we were addressing things as they came up because we had never experienced anything like this before. I’ve worked in the startup and entrepreneurial realm of Cincinnati for a while now assisting startups, but not necessarily starting my own business. “I have a full-time job and Esther has a baby and is a full-time mom and teaches music lessons on the side, so we both have a lot going on. We realized that, if we wanted to be sustainable, we needed to become realistic with what our time allowed and to seek assistance in areas where we needed it.” Initially, the group had windows for donations and now have transitioned to a 24-hour model, thanks to their partnership with Crossroads. “We ask as many people as possible to donate the masks back at Crossroads because then first, they are covered by our liability waiver,” explains Esther. “And secondly, we’re in direct contact with the people that need the masks the most and we give the masks directly to them.” In just two months, Sew Masks 4 Cincy donated more than 20,000 cloth masks to frontline facilities in the Greater Cincinnati Region. Between their Facebook group, webpage and email newsletter, they reach more than 10,000 members. Volunteers can join on-site teams at the five Crossroads drop-off locations throughout Greater Cincinnati (Mason, Oakley, Eastside, Westside and Florence, KY), or can join the team of volunteer sewers to create and donate masks. Free sewing kits are available to borrow for two weeks at the Crossroads sites to then return with the completed masks. They currently have enough sewing kits to make it through the end of the year. “Recent studies have shown that when people are wearing masks, the potential to contract CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/WestChesterandLiberty
19
LOCALLY OWNED (CONTINUED)
COVID-19 or pass it along has been pretty well-reduced,” Courtney recalls. “A mask helps more so than it doesn’t, and to be able to help with the shortages of PPE that we experienced back in March has been crucial. Being a part of that has been a really rewarding journey for us.” Sew Masks 4 Cincy has fulfilled the needs at St. Elizabeth Healthcare, Christ Hospital, UC Health, TriHealth and the Veterans Affairs Medical Center and Hospital. They’ve also donated to over 100 frontline facilities throughout the Greater Cincinnati Region, including many more facilities in Liberty Township, Mason and Warren County. “Right now is kind of a scary time because the numbers are rising quickly nationally, and in particular in Cincinnati in Hamilton County and Fairfield,” Esther says. “The best thing we can do is to continue to provide masks to frontline workers to protect them and in turn protect ourselves and the Cincinnati community.” With the need for masks changing, Sew Masks 4 Cincy now has specific facilities that receive masks monthly. In June, masks were donated to children and teens at frontline organizations and partnered schools. In July and August, masks were donated to faculty and staff at public schools in the area. Through September, the group will be primarily donating masks to local schools in need. “Schools are supposed to start, so that’s been our primary shift in focus,” says Esther. “Because we have fulfilled the need of masks for many frontline facilities and knowing that teachers, faculty, and staff, in particular, are going to be very exposed, we’re now trying to provide masks for them as well as low-income students.” According to Esther, a huge amount of masks have come out of the West Chester and Mason communities and the success of Sew Masks 4 Cincy is due to the fact that many people in Cincinnati have come together to sew and donate masks to the organization. One member even posted on the group’s Facebook page that she had been sewing regularly for ten hours a day. “The effects of this have been pretty amazing, and we’ve been contacted by people all over the nation that were starting to need masks, asking for help and we’ve also been contacted by people internationally,” says Esther. While there are similar organizations in other cities, they haven’t taken off like it did in Cincinnati, according to Esther. She estimates that Sew Masks 4 Cincy will have donated 30,000 masks by the end of the summer. “We’ve been overwhelmed with the generosity of Cincinnatians getting involved with volunteering, donating resources and time to help protect our frontline heroes,” says Esther. To get involved, visit SewMasks4Cincy.org or join the Facebook group “SewMasks4Cincy” for more information. You can also email them at info@sewmasks4cincy.org.
Two Mask Styles FITTED FILTER + A fitted filter mask cover design is a better fit and more comfortable on most face shapes and sizes, but does not fit everyone. + Slightly easier and quicker to make. + Can be made with elastic or fabric ties. + Has a pocket for a filter. + Has a casing for a removable nose wire. + The mask recipient provides the filter. + Option to make with elastic or fabric ties. PLEATED FILTER + A pleated filter mask cover design fits a wide variety of face shapes and sizes. + Can be made with elastic or fabric ties. + Has a pocket for a filter. + Has a casing for a removable nose wire. + The mask recipient provides the filter. + Option to make with elastic or fabric ties. You can learn more about making masks and where to find printed instructions and kits at the website. SewMasks4Cincy.org/mask-styles-templates
20
West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle | September 2020
These are extraordinary times. Each day a new challenge. At Lindner Center of HOPE, we’re here to assist you with managing your mental health and substance use, providing treatment you need today and every day. Your mental wellness is important.
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West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle | September 2020
striking
TREND SETTER
Courtesy of Stas May Photography and Banana Republic
POSES
HOMETOWN MODELS LEAH & ERIN ELIOPULOS SHARE ABOUT THEIR CAREERS AND FASHION FAVORITES
THE LIGHTS, THE CAMERAS, THE MAKEUP AND THE GLAMOROUS CLOTHING—THE IDEA OF A MODELING CAREER IS ONE OF SPARKLE, TRAVEL AND EXCITEMENT. Two local women have taken their talents for making clothes and beauty products look great to the international stage. We first spoke to West Chester natives Leah and Erin Eliopulos four years ago about the launch of their modeling careers and their anti-bullying advocacy work. Since then, Leah and Erin have grown their careers substantially, modeling for some of the most glamorous and exciting brands in the world. “Over the last few years I’ve been given the opportunity
"THE MOST
to meet and work with some amazing people and add jobs to my portfolio that I only dreamed of when I was
IMPORTANT
younger,” says Leah Eliopulos. One highlight has been her entry into working with beauty brands, modeling makeup and other products. She really enjoys the opportunity to work for a recognizable brand and make the shoot her own. “I’ve learned that I enjoy beauty work! I love jobs where I can feel free-spirited and show off my personality. Beauty editorials allow me to express myself in a way that I feel is very genuine. These sort of jobs tend to be more light-hearted and smiley—which I love,” says Leah. “A brand that I was given the opportunity to work with was Glossier. The energy and sense of family on set was something I’ll never forget. I formed a bond from the first job I booked with them and went on to do numerous shoots for the brand.” The past few months of 2020 have been a challenge to the standard processes of styling and shooting photographs for fashion and beauty brands. Leah and Erin have both experienced changes to the status quo. “Modeling is a very social and intimate job, so it was definitely put on hold right when everything got very serious and shut down,” explains Erin. “I’ve had two jobs since COVID-19, and it’s changed so much, to where we cannot eat lunch together, and we wear masks.”
CONTINUED >
THING TO ALWAYS HAVE, WITH WHATEVER YOU ARE WEARING, IS CONFIDENCE. TO ME, THAT’S WHAT MAKES AN OUTFIT."
ARTICLE LAURA LEAVITT | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED CityLifestyle.com/WestChesterandLiberty
23
TREND SETTER (CONTINUED)
“Along with the new rules, there are a limited amount of in-person shoots going on at the moment—so brands have been sending models products, and we have been photographing ourselves at home with the help of our family members,” says Leah. “It’s interesting to do
erinERIN
Photo by Ivan Bideac for GQ Russia
everything yourself, and there are challenges of course, but it’s very rewarding.” While they both have their own career paths, Erin and Leah offer some natural advantages when booked together, and they’ve chosen to model in the same shoots a variety of times. “It’s always a lot of fun on set since we have that natural chemistry of being sisters so the pictures always turn out very organic and give off a relaxed vibe,” says Leah. “I admire Erin’s natural ability to mold herself into whatever character she’s trying to portray for the shoot. She’s extremely versatile and her kind nature really shows through in all the work she does.” Erin also sees how they naturally play off each other in shoots together. “What I like about Leah’s modeling style is she makes me be a little bit more serious and more professional because sometimes I can goof off a little too much,” says Erin. While it isn’t uncommon to see photographs of Erin and Leah dressed to the nines in serious haute couture shoots, they both know how to enjoy a casual Friday. “My personal style has always been very relaxed. For me, it’s all about comfort. I love sweatpants and vintage tees. The majority of my
Photo provided by the Eliopulos sisters
outfits are thrifted, minus the basics,” says Leah.
24
West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle | September 2020
L Photo provided by the Eliopulos sisters
LEAHleah
Photo provided by Elena Nonoo
“I wear a lot of gold jewelry so I think that always elevates whatever outfit I decide to put on. But the most important thing to always have, with whatever you are wearing, is confidence. To me, that’s what makes an outfit.” Erin echoes her sentiment that comfort is key, saying that her own go-to outfit is a t-shirt and a pair of vintage Levi’s, along with some layered jewelry. They both have continued to have a passion for advocacy work, and they still have their anti-bullying scholarship project from years past. Erin has found new outlets as well for her interests in helping others. “I’ve learned that I love to work for women-led companies and diverse companies that stand for a great cause,” says Erin. “Working and meeting with these teams often doesn’t even feel like work, and I gain friendships. It makes me feel fulfilled in what I do.” Erin and Leah may be living the New York City lifestyle most days, but they haven’t forgotten their West Chester roots. “My sister and I come home often to see friends and family, so we’re always out and about in the area,” says Erin. “West Chester will always be home to us. We will never forget the community that created so many fond memories in our childhood.”
Courtesy of Glossier
Courtesy of Glossier CityLifestyle.com/WestChesterandLiberty
25
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LOCAL LIMELIGHT
T-T i m e ARTICLE TERA MICHELSON PHOTOGRAPHY LEN KALTMAN—WEST CHESTER CORPORATE PHOTOGRAPHY
THROW A FASHION FUNDRAISER WITH SARA HICKMAN DESIGNS
MOVE OVER HAUTE COUTURE—AT THE END OF THE DAY, THERE’S NOTHING BETTER THAN A COMFY T-SHIRT. Local artist Sara Hickman creates fashion for the masses with her creative, witty and relatable designs. Buyers not only get quality apparel, available at their fingertips from the online store, but also the opportunity to support small businesses and organizations in the community with each purchase.
28
West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle | September 2020
Sara Hickman Designs launched in 2008, morphing from preschool entertainment events to educational and illustration work, and then finally added apparel beginning in May 2020. When COVID-19 struck this past spring, Sara was furloughed from the corporate world. She observed how the pandemic was negatively impacting the businesses around her and she took the opportunity to meet a need. “COVID happened and I thought, ‘Well, I have this opportunity to build up businesses,’” Sara shares. “I decided that when a customer would buy one of my Cinco de Mayo shirts, I would give them a $10 gift card to a local Mexican restaurant.” Her apparel sales led to giving back to the community she loves. Now, each item sold comes with a $10 donation to participating small businesses and organizations. They see an immediate kickback each Friday, when Sara forwards the accumulated donations. She partners with several groups in the area, including The Edge Teen Center, Reach Out Lakota, Learning Through Play Café and more. “I want to be known as a business that gives back to the community,” says Sara. “I have a goal to give back $50,000 in donations this year.” Sara’s business was founded at the corner of mission and passion: she is on a mission to be a business with a heart, but her passion is art. “I’ve been drawing my entire life—probably since I was four.” she explains. Ever since she could hold one, Sara has had a pencil in her hand. She has a reputation for using it creatively. “Earlier this year, I was doing some goal planning for the business. I had these huge pieces of paper taped to the door and I was writing on them. My mom called—she always does video calling—and when she saw what I was doing she said, ‘There you are, drawing on the walls again. At least you are using paper this time!’ So, I guess I used to draw on the walls,” she laughs. “I guess I still do!” Browsing the web shop at SaraHickmanDesigns.com is a peek into the life of its owner. As a busy working mom of two, Sara’s designs reflect a humorous approach to life. You’ll find some familiar themes on her graphic tees, with a focus on faith, family and flamingos. When inspiration strikes, she gets to work. “My whole business started with really simple designs: simple lines, fun, whimsical and bright, and family and faith-oriented,” Sara explains. “My design style is line art, like a coloring book. It’s really simplistic, but with lots of hand-style lettering.” “My kids inspire me. They are hilarious!” she says. “They’ll say some of the wittiest little things. Also, I’m kind of a nerd. I have an art and science aspect to me,” Sara shares. “I find puns really funny.”
CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/WestChesterandLiberty
29
LOCAL LIMELIGHT (CONTINUED)
“Often, I’ll just be scribbling, and an idea will come to me,” she shrugs. Once the design is perfected, Sara cuts it from vinyl and presses it with heat, turning out a handmade product sourced from local small businesses. “My apparel supplier is local,” she says, “and I order vinyl from an Ohio company.” Custom orders are Sara’s specialty. From a single order to outfitting an entire organization, she welcomes the challenge to produce an unforgettable design as well as an easy fundraiser. She does the organization, processing, setup and design at no cost. She even supplies an online store free of charge. “I can do this very customized,” she says. “People are struggling right now. They shouldn’t have to worry about the setup or an upfront investment.” The businesses that can best benefit from Sara Hickman Designs’ fundraising program are the “small to medium sized businesses that are competing with chain stores down the street—the community establishments that are helping to build the community,” Sara explains. “And the organizations that are fueling the community. The places where owners really want to know their customers.” Support local businesses with a purchase from Sara Hickman Designs, or start a fundraiser of your own for a favorite community organization. Find your new favorite tee among Sara’s charming and humorous designs. “Sometimes I use the humor to get the stress off my chest. You have to either laugh or cry, and I try to make people laugh,” Sara says. SaraHickmanDesigns.com SaraHickmanDesigns@gmail.com 30
West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle | September 2020
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SEPTEMBER
LIFESTYLE CALENDAR
4
13
Teresa Catholic Elementary School at
YOGA IN THE PARK
FAMILY FARM EXPERIENCE
hearted contests, and benefit education
Join fellow fitness fans for a refreshing
Companions
evening of yoga in Dudley Memorial Park
Support is sponsoring a Family Farm
on September 4 at 6 p.m. You’ll need
Experience with a memorial butter-
your own mat, and participants must be
fly release. Enjoy socially-distanced
age 12 or older. Liberty-Township.com
fun while getting outside for sun-
Dudley Memorial Park
5, 12, 19, 26 WEST CHESTER FARMERS MARKET The Square @ Union Centre
Join your local community at the Farmers Market every Saturday in
Walden Ponds Golf Club. You’ll enjoy delicious food and drinks, enjoy lightin our community. Learn more and regis-
Niederman Family Farm
on
a
Journey
Grief
shine and fresh air on September 13. CompanionsOnAJourney.com
ter at the website. MTCES.org
22 WCLCA OPEN Heritage Club
Join
the
West
Chester
Liberty
13
Chamber Alliance for a golf outing
KITE FLYING OUTING
afternoon flights. Sponsorships and
at the Heritage Club on September 22, either during the morning or
Voice of America Museum
tickets are available on the website.
September from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. to
Join local kite-flyers, weather pending,
TheChamberAlliance.com
shop locally crafted items as well as
for a beautiful Sunday afternoon of out-
produce. WestChesterOH.org
door fun on September 13 starting at noon. The Pigs Aloft Kite Association
12
hosts this get-together, and you can
ANNUAL SHRED PARTY
WestChesterOH.org
visit as a first-time kite-flyer at the lawn by the VOA Museum in West Chester.
September 12 between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. to clear away paper clutter and shred old documents that need to be safely thrown away. Emery loves helping you
PYRAMID HILL ART & MUSIC FESTIVAL
Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum
On September 26 between 11 a.m. and
Emery Federal Credit Union
Visit any Emery FCU location on
26, 27
18
8 p.m. and on September 27 between
MTCES GOLF OUTING
ists and designer booths will be set up
11 a.m. and 4 p.m., visit the Pyramid Hill Art & Music Festival. More than 70 art-
Walden Ponds Golf Club
outdoors for you to enjoy, along with
guard against identity theft, and the
On September 18, raise money and enjoy
music, crafts, games and food trucks.
event is free to attend. EmeryFCU.org
a fun day on the golf course with Mother
PyramidHill.org
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LOCAL’S CHOICE ARTICLE MICHELLE MOODY | PHOTOGRAPHY LEN KALTMAN—WEST CHESTER CORPORATE PHOTOGRAPHY AND PROVIDED
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West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle | September 2020
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