Lakewood, FL May 2026

Elevating Real Estate Excellence in Lakewood Ranch

Molly & Preston Higdon

Trusted. Proven. Voted the Best.

In a market where experience matters and results speak volumes, Molly & Preston Higdon continue to set the standard for real estate excellence in Lakewood Ranch and the surrounding communities. Recognized as topperforming professionals in the area, their reputation is built not just on numbers - but on relationships, trust, and an unwavering commitment to their clients.

For four consecutive years, Molly & Preston have been honored as Top Realtors by SRQ Magazine, a distinction that reflects both their market expertise and the loyalty of the clients they serve. But beyond awards, it’s the words of those clients that truly define their impact.

“Molly and Preston are a dynamic duo! If you’re looking for quality, integrity, knowledge, passion and the perfect agents, this is your team! Molly and Preston not only made this entire experience smooth and a very enjoyable process, but they totally redeemed our negative perception on Florida real estate. They made us a priority and valued the client, agent relationship which we’re so grateful for. We sold and purchased with them and they made every step of both transactions seem effortless. This level of exceptionalism in an agent is hard to find, but Molly and Preston are both above and beyond! We can’t recommend them enough!”

“They worked diligently on my behalf and demonstrated true professionalism throughout the entire process. Their deep knowledge of the market was invaluable, especially given the ever-changing real estate landscape. Molly and Preston’s guidance, responsiveness, and steady support made all the difference—I always felt like I was in capable hands.”

“Molly makes herself available for any question, any ask, and is incredibly responsive. There was never any “No” no matter what we asked for, and she has a fantastic team of people that work with her to make this happen. Thank you Molly, you were a blessing to us!”

Whether guiding first-time buyers, marketing luxury properties, or helping families transition into their next chapter, their approach is the same: personalized, strategic, and deeply client-focused. Every detail is handled with precision, every decision backed by insight, and every client supported every step of the way.

In today’s competitive real estate landscape, choosing the right representation makes all the difference. With Molly & Preston Higdon, you’re not just hiring realtors -you’re partnering with trusted advisors who are dedicated to achieving your goals. Ready to make your move? Connect with Molly & Preston today and experience the difference that top-tier service truly makes.

Preston: 941-400-6100

Molly: 941-875-1722

She Built Anyway

There are seasons in life when we are simply surviving and then there are seasons when we begin to rebuild.

For many women, the path to building something meaningful doesn’t begin with a perfect plan. It begins with resilience. With faith. With the quiet determination that even after hardship, disappointment, or unexpected turns in life, something beautiful can still be created.

This May, our Women’s Issue is a celebration of women who chose to build anyway.

Inside these pages, you’ll meet women who are leading businesses, creating opportunity for others, and stepping into their calling with courage. Some are entrepreneurs designing beautiful spaces or shaping brands. Others are community leaders and nonprofit founders pouring their energy into serving the next generation. Each story reflects a powerful truth: when women step into their purpose, they create impact far beyond themselves.

One story that particularly moved me this month is the work being done through The Sisterhood Project, which is creating opportunities and support for young girls who need encouragement, confidence, and community. Their mission is a reminder that when women lift one another up, the ripple effect reaches generations.

As a publisher, I’ve had the privilege of meeting hundreds of people in our community over the past few years. But what continues to inspire me most are the women who are quietly building something meaningful, often behind the scenes, while balancing families, businesses, and the countless responsibilities that come with both.

As a mother of three boys and someone who launched this magazine during a season of rebuilding my own life, I think often about the example we set for our children. They watch how we persevere. They watch how we treat others. They watch whether we choose fear or faith.

Launching Lakewood City Lifestyle was never just about publishing a magazine. It was about creating a platform where stories of courage, generosity, leadership, and purpose could be shared. Stories that remind us how much good exists in this community.

And this month, that good is embodied in the women you’ll meet in these pages.

To the women who are leading, serving, creating, and building something meaningful, thank you for the example you set.

And to every woman reading this who is still finding her way, still healing, still dreaming, or still building something that only she can see… keep going.

The world needs what you are creating.

May 2026

PUBLISHER

Jessi Neitzel | jessi.neitzel@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Michelle Numann | michelle.numann@citylifestyle.com

SALES DIRECTOR

Sean Averso | sean.averso@citylifestyle.com

SALES SUPPORT

Carley Ridley | carley.ridley@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Michelle Numann, Jessi Neitzel

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Visual Lift Media, Photo Guru SRQ, Gulf Coast Realty Media, Roni Padua Photography, A Simple Dreamer Co.

JESSI NEITZEL, PUBLISHER @LAKEWOODCITYLIFESTYLE

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler

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

Proverbs 3:5-6

inside the issue

Honoring

The Power of Partnership

Two

Why

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STORIES BEHIND THE WORK

Honoring

Women Who Build with Vision, Perseverance, and Purpose

Behind every meaningful business is a story that rarely makes the highlight reel, one shaped by risk, resilience, and a deeper calling. This feature honors three women who didn’t just build something successful, but something significant; rooted in purpose, shaped by perseverance, and driven by impact.

ARTICLE BY JESSI NEITZEL

RESTORING MORE THAN HOMES: THE STORY OF BROOKE & LINDSAY

Years later, as young mothers balancing careers, families, and full lives, they found themselves successful on paper, but searching for something more. Not just financial freedom, but purpose. Not just stability, but impact.

So they built it.

Guided by faith and grounded in sisterhood, they launched their business on a date rooted in meaning—Joel 2:25–26, a promise of restoration.

What followed was not easy.

In a male-dominated industry, they often faced skepticism before they even spoke. But instead of shrinking, they chose to lead—from the front. Whether stepping onto a job site or guiding their team, they built a culture defined by grit, excellence, and care.

Because what they do goes far beyond restoration.

When disaster strikes, they are often the first to arrive, meeting people in moments of uncertainty and loss. In 2024, as multiple storms impacted their community, their work demanded long days and even longer nights.

But even in the chaos, they never lost sight of the human side.

They prayed with homeowners. They offered reassurance. They reminded people that what they were facing was temporary and that they weren’t alone.

They aren’t just restoring homes.

They’re restoring peace of mind.

There is a different kind of strength that emerges when women step into spaces they weren’t necessarily expected to lead.

For sisters Brooke and Lindsay, founders of DRYmedic in Lakewood Ranch, that strength was never about proving others wrong, it was about answering a deeper calling.

Raised in Southern California, they were shaped by discipline, faith, and vision. Their parents taught them that growth comes from doing hard things and that mindset would later define the path they chose.

They’re restoring hope.

For Brooke and Lindsay, success isn’t measured in growth alone—it’s measured in impact, trust, and the quiet moment when someone realizes they’re going to be okay.

They didn’t just build a business.

They built something that matters.

BUILT FROM LOSS, LED WITH HEART: CINDI’S STORY OF CREATING CYOU

Sometimes what we build comes not from ambition—but from loss.

For Cindi, founder of cYou, the journey began after reaching what many would consider success. After a career in banking that led her to the executive level, she found herself questioning the cost, long days, constant travel, and time away from what mattered most.

So she stepped away.

What followed was a season of unimaginable loss. Within months, she lost her mother, her brother, and then her father—along with the identity she had built over decades.

In that space of grief and reflection, something new began to take shape.

Cindi had always felt a pull toward creating something for women—a space where they could feel both confident and connected. One day, after prayer and reflection, she asked for clarity. And it came.

When she learned a local coffee shop was for sale, she didn’t hesitate.

“I’ll buy it.”

cYou was born—not as a business, but as a place to belong.

At 59, while many were retiring, she was starting over—learning new industries, navigating self-doubt, and investing in something deeply personal. She studied fashion and styling, built a team, and leaned on the leadership skills she had spent years developing.

What she created is more than a boutique or café.

It’s a space where people gather, connect, and stay. Where women rediscover themselves, friendships form, and conversations flow easily over coffee or wine.

And the most meaningful feedback comes daily: “This is my happy place.”

For Cindi, that is success.

Because cYou was never just a dream. It was healing.

A place she wished she could have shared with her mother. A place to gather, to belong, and to begin again.

And while her name may be on it, she’s quick to say—it’s been built together, with her family, her team, and her community. What she’s created is rare.

A space rooted in connection.

A business led with heart.

A reminder that it is never too late to start again.

Some businesses are built from opportunity. Others are built from survival.

For Roni Padua, founder of BBC Business Blend Collective, what she built was never just about business.

It was about belonging.

Growing up in instability shaped by addiction, Roni experienced childhood in survival mode—constantly adapting, rarely feeling safe, and always searching for something deeper.

To belong.

To be seen.

To feel secure.

As she grew older, she faced her own battle with addiction. But her story didn’t end there.

She chose a different path.

Now celebrating 11 years of sobriety, she describes that decision as more than change—it was rebuilding her life, her identity, and her future.

When she later moved to Sarasota and had to start over, that same need resurfaced.

So she built what she once needed.

BBC Business Blend Collective is not just a networking group—it’s a space for real connection. A place where collaboration replaces competition and where people are encouraged to show up authentically.

Through her work as a photographer and videographer, she extends that mission—creating moments where people feel seen, valued, and confident.

Because she knows what it feels like not to.

Her journey hasn’t been easy. At one point, her family faced the possibility of homelessness while navigating her son’s health challenges in a new city without support.

But instead of isolating, she built community. Today, that impact is seen in the relationships formed—business owners collaborating, friendships deepening, and people finding support beyond the surface.

Through BBC Live and her storytelling platforms, she creates space for honesty—highlighting not just success, but the real journey behind it.

Because for Roni, this work is not about recognition.

It’s about redemption.

About turning pain into purpose. About building a different legacy for her children—one rooted in resilience, faith, and connection.

At its core, her mission is simple:

She knows what it feels like not to belong.

So she created a space where no one has to feel that way again.

While only one woman will be named this year’s honoree, each of these stories represents what it truly means to build with purpose. Their impact is already woven into the fabric of this community—reminding us that when women rise, they don’t just change their own lives, they elevate everyone around them.

CREATING WHAT SHE NEVER HAD: RONI’S STORY OF BELONGING, REDEMPTION, AND COMMUNITY

True success isn’t just seen, it’s felt. These women have built more than businesses; they’ve created spaces of connection, beauty, and purpose. Rooted in resilience and led with intention, their work reflects a deeper kind of impact—one that quietly transforms lives, strengthens community, and leaves something lasting behind.

THE POWER of partnership

TWO AGENTS, ONE MISSION: EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE THROUGH PARTNERSHIP

Buying or selling a home is complex, driven by timing, trust, negotiation, and each client’s unique needs. Successful deals require professionals who anticipate challenges, adapt to changing markets, and guide clients through key financial and emotional decisions. When two professionals work together in sync, the experience is even stronger.

For Jennifer Salome and Dawn Tillette of Exit King Realty, partnership has become the foundation of their client service. The two agents first crossed paths while working independently at the same brokerage. Neither had originally planned to build a team, but as they began collaborating on a few clients, it quickly became clear that their different strengths created a natural balance.

“After 26 years in management, I knew I was ready for a different kind of career, one where I could focus on my own goals and performance. That’s what drew me to real estate,” shared Jennifer.

As their collaboration grew, the dynamic between the two agents naturally evolved.

“We had a couple of clients we started helping together, and that’s how it began,” shared Dawn Tillette. “Our opposite strengths just made things work.”

As they continued to work together, those differences quickly became one of their greatest professional advantages.

Salome is known for detail and organization, especially with contracts, timelines, and moving parts. Tillette thrives in conversations and builds relationships quickly and naturally.

“Jen’s superpower for me is how organized she is and how efficient she is with paperwork,” shared Dawn Tillette. “She knows where everything is at all times.”

Just as Tillette acknowledges Salome's organization, Salome sees Tillette’s strengths just as clearly.

“Dawn doesn’t know a stranger. She can walk up to anyone and start a conversation,” shared Jennifer Salome. “She keeps me from slipping into my comfort zone and reminds me how important it is to keep the pipeline full.”

Rather than assigning strict roles, the two allow their individual strengths to guide their approach to each transaction. That flexibility lets them divide tasks by strength while staying equally involved. For clients, this means more availability and responsiveness than a single agent can offer.

“Our clients are always taken care of,” shared Dawn Tillette. “I can take a day off or spend time with my family knowing things are still being handled.”

many clients arrive feeling overwhelmed by the number of options available.

“They’ll go to the Lakewood Ranch website and say, ‘Oh my gosh, there’s like thirty villages. What do I do with this?” shared Jennifer Salome. “I tell them, ‘Tell me what you want, and we’ll narrow it down.’”

Meanwhile, Tillette approaches conversations from a mindset perspective, encouraging clients not to become discouraged by headlines or market shifts.

“My mindset is everything,” shared Dawn Tillette. “I stay closely tuned into what’s happening in the market so I can guide our clients with clarity and confidence, no matter the conditions.”

“Our opposite strengths just made things work.”

Clients notice the impact of this teamwork immediately. Even while managing multiple listings and buyers, the two prioritize clear communication and consistent follow-up.

“One of them even said the way you guys work, it seems like we’re your only clients,” shared Jennifer Salome. “That was the biggest compliment because we’re actually really busy.”

Working in the rapidly growing Lakewood Ranch and Sarasota region has further shaped how they guide buyers through the market. With so many new construction communities and neighborhoods,

Beyond their own clients, both agents believe collaboration is equally important within the real estate industry. They regularly share knowledge with other agents and mentor newer agents.

“We’re not competition here. We’re collaborating,” shared Jennifer Salome.

Looking ahead, both women are focused on expanding their impact through leadership roles, mentorship, and deeper involvement in the communities they serve. What began as an unexpected collaboration has grown into one of their business's strongest assets.

“It’s authentic. It’s organic. It flows very well,” shared Jennifer Salome.

And in a profession built entirely on relationships, that kind of partnership can make all the difference.

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Where Doctors Go to Stay Fit

20 Minutes to Fitness gives Dr. Claire McGill the strength and stamina her family medicine practice demands.

Dr. Claire McGill, 35, logs long hours in her family medicine practice in Lakewood Ranch, while also juggling life at home with a young child. Finding time to exercise isn’t easy, but since 2020, she’s made it work with weekly sessions at 20 Minutes to Fitness.

“Exercise is an important part of my stress management,” she says. “20 Minutes to Fitness helps me maintain muscle tone and strength—and it fits my schedule, so I can actually stick with it.”

Musc le strength is one of the strongest predictors of how long you’ll live, research finds.

That ’s why strength training is so important. After age 30, we lose 8 to 10 pounds of muscle a decade. After age 50, the decline accelerates—leading to reduced mobility, slower metabolism and a higher risk of injury. But there’s a way to stop muscle loss and stay strong for life.

“I absolutely recommend 20 Minutes to Fitness to my patients,” Dr. McGill says.

Dr. Claire McGill is one of many doctors who found it at 20 Minutes to Fitness.

She had been struggling to fit exercise into her routine when her research led her to 20 Minutes to Fitness in 2020. The studio’s slowcadence training methods – lifting weights in ultraslow movements on specialized equipment – were unlike anything she had tried before.

The result? A full-body workout that delivers in just 20 minutes a week what could take three hours at a traditional gym.

“ The more I studied the science behind 20 Minutes to Fitness, the more sense it made,” said Dr. McGill. “I decided to give it a try.

“I go right after work, which makes it easy,” she says. “The coaches make sure you’re getting the most out of every session. I’m definitely stronger than I used to be.”

Research shows that 20 Minutes to Fitness’ slow-cadence training methods are easy on joints and connective tissue while delivering powerful results. They have been linked to: Increased bone density, reduced back pain, improved balance, higher energy levels, and many more benefits!

“O ur training methods are ideal for older exercisers, those recovering from injuries or returning to exercise,” explains Angela Begin, one of the studio’s owners. “But they’re equally effective for high school athletes and busy professionals.”

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THE NEW STANDARD OF WOMEN’S HEALTH

Why strength, balance, and proactive care are shaping how women experience longevity

ARTICLE BY MICHELLE NUMANN

PHOTOGRAPHY BY VISUAL LIFT MEDIA

Women today are living longer than ever before. But longevity alone does not guarantee a healthy life. Energy, independence, mental clarity, and physical strength shape how we experience those years.

Increasingly, women’s health is shifting away from simply treating illness and toward supporting long-term vitality.

That proactive approach is central to the work of Dr. Eden Yelverton, owner of Her Health Gynecology, who regularly cares for women in both the premenopausal and menopausal stages of life.

“Longevity shouldn’t just be about how long we live,” Dr. Yelverton says. “It should be about how well we live.”

Women often spend nearly half their lives after menopause, so building longterm health must start early. Prioritizing metabolic health, muscle mass, bone density, and cardiovascular health in our 30s and 40s can greatly affect how we feel later in life.

Muscle mass is a major, overlooked factor. As women age, muscle declines quietly, impacting metabolism, bone strength, stability, and overall physical resilience. Even light resistance training preserves muscle and supports metabolism.

Chronic stress is another key factor. Many women juggle careers, families, and daily demands, often carrying a heavy mental and emotional load. Stress is difficult to avoid, and its effects accumulate silently. “Stress is sneaky,” Dr. Yelverton explains.

“It can alter sleep, weight, immune function, and even long-term disease risk.”

Hormones also play a central role in nearly every aspect of women’s health. Rather than operating in isolation, hormones function as the body’s communication system, sending signals between organs and systems. When those levels fluctuate, the messages throughout the body shift as well.

Those hormonal changes often begin subtly. In a woman’s 30s, fluctuations may be mild enough to be attributed to a busy schedule or lack of sleep. By the 40s, however, perimenopause often introduces more noticeable symptoms, including disrupted sleep, anxiety, brain fog, or irregular cycles. In the 50s and beyond, declining estrogen levels may affect bone density, heart health, metabolism, and cognitive wellness.

Understanding these phases allows women to expect changes rather than react to them.

The same forward-thinking mindset applies to fertility. More women are having children later in life. While fertility slowly declines, many conceive into their late 30s and 40s. Awareness of timelines and healthy wellness decisions can help reproductive outcomes.

Habits and routines shape metabolism and weight. Many women notice changes even when habits stay the same. Extreme diets backfire, slowing metabolism. Sustainable strategies, such as strength

“THE SMALL STEPS YOU TAKE TODAY CAN DRAMATICALLY SHAPE HOW YOU FEEL TEN YEARS FROM NOW.”

training, protein, quality sleep, and stress management, are more effective.

The path to longevity rarely requires dramatic overhauls. Small, consistent habits—like scheduling regular visits with your doctor,  improving a daily meal, prioritizing protein, spending time outside, or staying active can gradually shift energy and health.

The most important step is reframing how women think about their health. “Start viewing your health as a long-term investment,” she says. “The small steps you take today can dramatically shape how you feel ten years from now.”

When women listen to their bodies, prioritize prevention, and take charge of their well-being, longevity means more than adding years. It becomes the chance to live those years with strength, clarity, and vitality.

To learn more about women’s health optimization and the services offered by Dr. Eden Yelverton, visit HerHealthGynecology.com .

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HOW MELISSA AND THE SISTERHOOD PROJECT USA ARE HELPING TEEN GIRLS FEEL SEEN

TURNING PAIN INTO PURPOSE

Sometimes purpose arrives in the most unexpected seasons of life.

For Melissa, the founder of The Sisterhood Project USA, the journey toward building a nonprofit that serves teen girls began during one of the most difficult chapters of her life.

“A few years ago, I truly believed I had my life all figured out,” she says. “I was studying to become a doctor of Chinese medicine and had started my own line of organic tinctures. I was proud of the path I was on.”

But everything changed when Melissa’s sister tragically passed away last January.

“In the middle of that overwhelming grief, I felt this deep need to channel the pain into something meaningful—something that could help others.”

From that place of heartbreak, a quiet idea began to grow.

“The Sisterhood Project USA began to take shape during that time. It felt less like something I created and more like a seed that had been planted in my heart long before I knew it would grow.”

JESSI NEITZEL

ARTICLE

Melissa Mangiapanella

A MISSION ROOTED IN PERSONAL EXPERIENCE

Melissa’s passion for serving teen girls is deeply personal. Her organization provides scholarships for sports, music, and the arts to children and teens affected by domestic violence, creating opportunities that might otherwise feel out of reach.

“Our mother was a victim of domestic violence until we lost her forever,” Melissa shares. “Because of that, I understand how complicated and heavy life can feel for a young person living in difficult circumstances.”

For teens navigating hardship, milestone moments are often the first things sacrificed.

“When families are facing challenges, experiences like prom, joining a sports team, or participating in the arts can feel like luxuries,” Melissa explains. “But those moments matter even more during difficult seasons.”

She remembers how her sister celebrated life’s small joys.

“When I think about my sister, I remember how intentional she was about celebrating life’s little moments. Every child deserves the gift of childhood, and every teen deserves the chance to feel special, celebrated, and seen.”

MORE THAN A DRESS: THE PROM POP-UP BOUTIQUE

One of the most visible expressions of The Sisterhood Project’s mission is the Prom Pop-Up Boutique, an elevated shopping experience designed to give teens the excitement of finding the perfect prom outfit—completely free.

“Prom is about so much more than a dress or a dance,” Melissa says. “It’s one of those milestone moments where young people feel celebrated and included.”

Rather than hosting a typical donation drive, Melissa intentionally designed the event as a boutique-style experience.

“When teens walk in, we want them to feel like they’re stepping into something special—like the pop-up shops brands host in big cities,” she explains. “The dresses, shoes, and accessories are beautifully displayed so the experience feels exciting and elevated.”

The idea was inspired by a long-running community tradition.

“For almost 30 years, Judy Alexander hosted a similar event in Sarasota County. When I reached out to see if we could help, she graciously passed the baton to us.”

Melissa was deeply moved by the stories Judy shared of teens laughing with friends while trying on dresses.

“That’s when I realized how important it was to continue that experience in a way that still feels magical.”

A COMMUNITY SHOWING UP

The response from the Lakewood Ranch community has been overwhelming.

Businesses and individuals alike have stepped forward to support the mission.

“Mahalla Wild generously donated dozens of brand-new designer dresses and shoes,” Melissa says. “Stella Rose Event Rentals collected racks of donations from the community, and the entire IV team at Northwell at LJMC organized a collection and shipped us three huge boxes.”

Saint Stephen’s Episcopal School has also stepped forward, hosting the event and even inviting Melissa to speak to the entire high school about the mission.

“That moment was incredibly meaningful,” she says. “When we hear the word prom, we think about fun and excitement—but the deeper purpose is about the young people we are serving and the community coming together to support them.”

THE POWER OF SISTERHOOD

At its heart, The Sisterhood Project is built on a simple but powerful idea:

Women rising by lifting others.

“To be honest, it has been women who have rallied around this mission from the very beginning,” Melissa says. “Strong, successful, incredibly talented women who have been generous with their time, mentorship, and encouragement.”

She believes the visibility of women leaders plays a powerful role in shaping the next generation.

“When girls see women building businesses, leading organizations, and supporting one another, it expands their sense of what their own future can look like.”

For Melissa, sisterhood means choosing collaboration over competition.

“In today’s world, sisterhood means lifting one another up. It means showing up with kindness and encouragement, especially during moments when someone may need it most.”

LEADERSHIP THROUGH FAITH AND COURAGE

Building a nonprofit comes with challenges many people never see.

“There are so many moving pieces—fundraising, programs, partnerships, and making sure the mission stays true to its purpose,” Melissa explains. “Much of the work happens quietly behind the scenes.”

But the impact makes the challenges worthwhile.

“This journey has taught me that courage often means stepping forward even when you’re unsure of the path ahead. Resilience is continuing to show up through the challenges. Faith is trusting that when something is meant to serve others, the right doors will open.”

A RIPPLE EFFECT OF OPPORTUNITY

Melissa’s vision for The Sisterhood Project reaches far beyond a single event.

“My hope is that the organization grows into something that not only supports children and teens today but creates opportunities for them later in life.”

She envisions a future where those who were once supported return to lead.

“I would love to see survivors and young people who have walked through difficult circumstances one day working within the organization and helping others.”

Creating that cycle of empowerment would be the most meaningful legacy of all.

“If we can create a ripple effect where the young people we support today grow up to lift others tomorrow—that would be everything.”

HOW THE COMMUNITY CAN HELP

Melissa emphasizes that community involvement is the heartbeat of the mission.

“EVERY CHILD DESERVES THE GIFT OF CHILDHOOD, AND EVERY TEEN DESERVES THE CHANCE TO FEEL SPECIAL, CELEBRATED, AND SEEN.”

“People can volunteer, donate, spread awareness, or simply share our story,” she says.

Businesses can partner through sponsorships, donations, or experiences that create opportunities for the teens served by the organization.

“Every act of support—big or small—helps us reach more young people and remind them that their community believes in them.”

A NEW DEFINITION OF SUCCESS

For Melissa, success looks very different than it once did.

“Success now means serving others,” she says.

“It’s watching a young person discover their confidence, their voice, or their passion and realizing that a small opportunity can change the direction of a life.”

And sometimes, that change begins with something as simple and powerful as a young girl walking into a boutique, trying on a dress, and realizing she is seen.

“If even one teen walks away believing in her future a little more,” Melissa says, “that is success to me.”

— MELISSA, FOUNDER OF THE SISTERHOOD PROJECT USA

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

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

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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

THE ART OF VISIBILITY

Franchesca Angotti on building brands that connect, endure, and leave a lasting impression.

There is something powerful about a woman who chooses to be seen.

ARTICLE BY JESSI NEITZEL PHOTOGRAPHY BY PHOTO GURU SRQ

Not just visible in the sense of showing up, but visible in her truth, her voice, and her work. Because visibility isn’t about attention. It’s about ownership. And for women

building something of their own, it’s often the bridge between talent and transformation.

For Franchesca Angotti, that journey began long before she launched her business.

A TURNING POINT

Raised by an entrepreneur father, Franchesca always admired what it meant to build something with your name on it. But like many women, her path started by learning within someone else’s vision.

What she once believed was her dream job quickly became overwhelming, managing projects beyond her experience while navigating a toxic, high-pressure environment. After experiencing a panic attack at work, she made a defining decision: she chose to walk away and build something different.

Something rooted in creativity, not burnout.

WHERE BRANDS ARE TRULY BUILT

For Franchesca, success wasn’t marked by revenue, it was marked by connection.

“There is no shortage of people who do what you do,” she explains. “What matters is how you connect.”

Through intentional relationships, she discovered that the strongest brands are built from the inside out.

By pulling out the essence of a person or business and translating it outward, she creates something that cannot be replicated.

WHY WOMEN STAY HIDDEN

Many women do exceptional work but hesitate to be seen. Not because they lack talent, but because they question their worth.

Franchesca faced that early on, constantly overanalyzing her pricing, her decisions, and her place in the industry. The shift came through inner work with therapy, coaching, and reframing her self-talk.

Because confidence isn’t something you’re given. It’s something you build.

And once a woman truly knows her worth, everything changes.

VISIBILITY THROUGH CONNECTION

In a digital world, Franchesca has built her business through something far more powerful: genuine human connection.

By stepping out from behind her screen and into real conversations, she has created a network rooted in trust. When people feel seen, heard, and valued, they naturally want to support and refer you.

That is visibility that works.

The strongest brands are built from the inside out and that’s what makes them impossible to replicate.

OWNING YOUR WORK

Like many women, she once hesitated to speak openly about her success, worried it might come across as boastful.

But the truth is simple: if you don’t celebrate your work, no one else will.

Visibility means allowing yourself to be proud and sharing that confidently.

DESIGNING WITH INTENTION

Franchesca believes your brand should be an extension of who you are.

Too often, businesses are built around trends instead of truth. But when branding is rooted in authenticity, it becomes effortless to communicate and consistent to maintain.

And that consistency builds trust.

She also sees one common mistake: cutting corners on branding. What feels like saving money early often leads to rebuilding later—costing more in time, money, and missed opportunity.

A thoughtful brand signals investment, intention, and credibility.

BRAND AS LEGACY

For Franchesca, branding is more than marketing—it’s legacy.

“People may forget what you said, but they won’t forget how your brand made them feel.”

That feeling becomes what people carry forward. It shapes how they talk about

your business when you’re not in the room. It becomes your reputation.

Legacy isn’t built someday. It’s built daily through every interaction and every experience you create.

FROM INCOME TO IMPACT

When entrepreneurs stop chasing transactions and start building relationships, their brand begins to carry weight.

A strong brand creates trust, loyalty, and long-term value. That’s where wealth compounds and where legacy is formed.

FOR THE WOMAN STILL WAITING

To the woman sitting on an idea: don’t wait. Perfection will hold you back. Progress will move you forward.

“Do it scared. Do it excited. Just do it.”

Because the greatest regret isn’t failure, it’s never trying.

REDEFINING SUCCESS

Today, success for Franchesca is no longer measured in numbers.

It’s measured in freedom, alignment, and fulfillment—building a life that feels as good as it looks.

Because the most powerful brands aren’t just built for profit.

They’re built for purpose.

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

MAY 1ST

Music on Main at Lakewood Ranch

Main street Lakewood Ranch | 6:00 PM Fleming Co. will fill the air with coastal indie pop, and the event will benefit SRQ Vets. Beer, wine and food available. Bluestar will fill the air with the sounds of authentic blues and the event will benefit the Lakewood Ranch Community Foundation.

MAY 2ND

28th Annual Corvettes on the Circle

St. Armands Circle Park | 9:00 AM

Join us in beautiful St. Armand’s Circle where you can spend the day viewing over 100 models of an American automotive classic.The show will include all Corvette model years from the classic 1953 C1 to the newest models. Trophies will be awarded to the top three Corvettes in each generational class as well as Best in Show.

MAY 2ND

11th Annual SUP & RUN 5K

Nathan Benderson Park | 8:00 AM

Three great races, world-class venue, awesome shirts, custom 4″ finisher medals, CHALLENGE coins, great prizes, spectacular post-race party and more! The event will be held at Nathan Benderson Park to benefit  RUCK9 (RUCK9. com) with partial proceeds going to Operation Second Chance  (OperationSecondChance/com).

CONTINUED >

Introducing NeuroEdge Weekly Intensives at Edge Therapies

A whole-body, science-backed approach to support focus, regulation, and development

If your child is struggling with:

• Attention & focus

• Emotional regulation

• Speech & communication

• Sensory processing

You’re not alone and there may be another way.

Our NeuroEdge Week Intensive combine:

✨ Low-Level Light Therapy (Photobiomodulation)

✨ Occupational & Speech Therapy

✨ Nervous system regulation strategies

events

CONTINUED

MAY 7TH

Casual Cornhole

7500 Island Cove Terrace Lakewood Ranch , FL 34240 | 10:00 AM

All designed to support your child at a deeper, neurological levelnot just surface behaviors.

Now booking weekly intensives for May and June!

Not replacing therapy - enhancing how the brain learns, processes, and responds!

In addition to intensives, we also provide in home or in office:

941-226-8617

hello@edgetherapiesfl.com

edgetherapiesfl.com

Toss some fun into your Thursday! Join us at Waterside Place for a fun morning of Casual Cornhole! Whether you’re a cornhole pro or a newbie, don’t miss this chance to show off your tossing skills and have a blast with friends! Grab a partner or go solo, we’ve got enough beanbags and boards to keep everyone entertained!

MAY 9TH

Petals & Poses Mother’s Day Fashion Show

Waterside Place, Lakewood Ranch 12:00 PM

Join us at Waterside Place for the ultimate Mother’s Day celebration, where fashion, fun, and family come together for a day to remember! Explore the  Mother’s Day Gift Market, unique finds and handmade treasures perfect for spoiling Mom! Treat yourself in the  Pamper Zone to a mini-HydraFacial Lip Perk, a chic braid bar, stylish photo booth and more.

MAY 29TH

Family Movie Night at The Bay: E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial

1055 Blvd of the Arts, Sarasota 34236 | 7:30 PM

Enjoy a free outdoor movie under the stars at The Bay! Share the wonder across generations and introduce your kids to this lovable classic. Come hungry and thirsty!  The Nest Café will be serving delicious food, fresh popcorn and refreshing drinks. Bring your blankets, chairs, and friends to add even more comfort and fun.