Lakewood, FL September 2024

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Style Shapes Our Lives

Dear Reader,

I hope this letter finds you in high spirits and full of creative energy.

Style is all around us and is what makes life vibrant and engaging. It creates the moment, the memory, the person. It’s not just about fashion or home decor; it’s in every aspect of how we live. Whether it’s the way we express ourselves through our clothes, the personal touches in our homes, or even the unique ways we interact with others, style adds color and depth to our everyday experiences. It’s the little things that make a big difference, sparking conversations and connections that make life richer.

Style is very personal. And it evolves as we celebrate our quirks, our passions, and our desires. Style is a form of self-expression that communicates who we are, how we perceive the world and what we value. In this way, style becomes a powerful tool for connection, as it enables us to find common ground with others who share our aesthetic sensibilities.

We hope this issue inspires you to forge new paths or perhaps explore familiar ones. There is so much here in Lakewood Ranch to uplift our spirits, boost your productivity and ignite your creativity. From local artists to event styling, and more.

Here's to embracing your style!

BROOKE BEZET, EDITOR @LAKEWOODCITYLIFESTYLE

September 2024

PUBLISHER

Jessi Neitzel | jessi.neitzel@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Brooke Bezet | brooke.bezet@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Tatyana Vovkulin | tatyana.vovkulin@citylifestyle.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Olive Grey Photography

Kelsey@olivegreyphotography.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Roohi Photography, Nicole Mac Photography

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto

LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh

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

CUSTOM CLOSETS TO FIT YOUR NEEDS

We’ve been building custom closets, murphy beds, offices, pantries, laundry rooms, entertainment centers and more in Lakewood Ranch for 20 years. Stop by our showroom and meet our designers, Pete and Jamie. They live the LWR lifestyle and love helping their neighbors make their homes more beautiful and organized.

Open Now!

From California Glam to Florida Shine, Sculpting Beauty Coast to Coast

California board-certified plastic surgeon, Richard Lee, MD, has moved his practice to serve the needs of the greater Sarasota area! With over 20 years of experience and a proven track record of safety and excellence, Dr. Lee is committed to provide top notch care for his patients. At the Lee Institute of Plastic Surgery, genuine patient care is our highest priority while offering the latest advancements and techniques in plastic surgery that have a proven track record of safety and effectiveness. Our practice encompasses all aspects of cosmetic surgery – from facial procedures to rejuvenate your appearance and correct deviations, to breast and body enhancements and makeovers.

1:

city scene

by @olivegreyphotography

Wedding, Event, and Social Media Content Creation

Events & Special Occasions | Brand & Business Social Content | User Generated Content

Are you ready to capture the magic of your brand or special moments with authenticity and originality?

Look no further than Cristiana Captures! With a keen eye for the most important details and a passion for storytelling, Cristiana brings your weddings, events, and brand visions to life in a way that resonates with your target audience. Our content is designed to optimize your social media platforms with engaging short-form videos, ensuring your memories not only shine but also reach a wider audience. Our fast turnaround means you won’t have to wait long to share your personalized moments with the world. Choose Cristiana Captures and experience the difference that a touch of human artistry can make in your cherished moments.

MANATEE RIVER VIEWS AT PIER 22

We apply imaginative culinary artistry coupled with an unforgettable atmosphere to help you celebrate the important moments. We take pride in preparing meals from scratch and using local ingredients, but our passion doesn’t stop at your plate. Our hospitality team takes style and service seriously. Host your next event with us at your venue, PIER 22 in Downtown Bradenton or GROVE in Lakewood Ranch and take your event to the next level!

business monthly

Naked Farmer

Florida focused on serving seasonal, locally-sourced food. They collaborate with regional family-owned farms to provide fresh produce, cooked on-site by skilled chefs. Committed to sustainability, they exclusively use 100% avocado oil in their cooking. Naked Farmer emphasizes the importance of community and freshness in their offerings, providing a rotating menu that reflects the best of each season's harvest.

Taverna Toscana

Taverna Toscana, located in downtown Bradenton, Florida, is a premier Tuscan Italian steakhouse led by renowned Chef Fabio Viviani. This dining spot blends Tuscan charm with modern sophistication, offering aged steaks, homemade pasta, and crafted drinks. With a warm ambiance and indoor/outdoor seating, it promises an exquisite Italian culinary experience.

Chamberlin's Natural Foods

Chamberlin’s Natural Foods has recently opened in Lakewood Ranch, offering a wide selection of organic produce, health foods, and supplements. The store features convenient grab-and-go options like soups, smoothies, organic salads, fresh sandwiches, and a sushi bar, catering to our health-conscious community.

Molly was voted one of “Sarasota’s Top 12 Realtors” by SRQ Magazine in 2023 & 2024. Molly has earned the elite designation of being a Keller Williams Luxury Qualified Agent. The Keller Williams Luxury Division is entirely focused on bringing the best results to the highest level of clientele and their luxury properties. With $60M+ of real estate sold Molly proudly represents a wide variety of properties at varying price points across the gulf coast of Florida.

La Chíc BOHÈME

STYLE HOUSE EMBRACES TIMELESS ELEGANCE WITH SUSTAINABLE FASHION

ARTICLE BY BROOKE BEZET

PHOTOGRAPHY BY OLIVE GREY PHOTOGRAPHY

In the ever-evolving world of fashion, it’s rare to find a boutique that seamlessly blends timeless elegance with sustainable practices. La Chíc Bohème, located in Waterside Place in Lakewood Ranch, does just that, offering a carefully curated selection of clothing, accessories, and lifestyle products from around the globe.

La Chíc Bohème’s style house proudly carries a diverse range of brands that prioritize quality, craftsmanship, and sustainability. From Meritt Charles’ classic, biodegradable pieces made in the USA, to Laura Laval Paris’ limited-edition Parisian staples, and Bruna’s elegant Spanish designs, each brand tells a story. Kopal, made using traditional Indian methods,

and Just Black Denim’s handcrafted jeans reflect years of dedication. Byniumaal,  Jessica Matrasko Jewelry, Jamie Slye, and Kiyl further showcase global artisanship.

Skin & Body Care offerings include Environ’s scientifically-backed skincare and VOYA’s seaweed-based products. For Home & Lifestyle, the boutique’s own line of La Chíc Bohème  candles, Paisley & Parsley‘s cheeky greeting cards, Gibbs Smith’s inspiring books, and Alabaster Co’s artful faithbased books provide perfect gift options.

La Chíc Bohème’s style is described as classic and timeless with a touch of bohemian. They carry a versatile range of clothing, including jeans, dresses, formal and business wear, and shoes. Accessories include hats, belts, handbags, and headbands.

Style Inspiration: Inspired by natural fabrics and beautiful details, the boutique’s fashion icons include Olivia Palermo and Rachel Zoe.

Wardrobe Tips From Founder and CEO, Holly Sharpe: Stay true to yourself, take pride in your appearance, and dress for your body shape. A good tailor can make a world of difference.

La Chíc Bohème’s style house stands out for its beautiful and timeless fashion, commitment to sustainability, and quality craftsmanship. Not only is it a style house but it is also a day and med spa.

Visit La Chíc Bohème: Phone: 941-957-CHIC

Website: www.LaChicBoheme.com

Instagram: @lachicboheme, https://www.instagram.com/lachicboheme

A WAY BETTER MASSAGE EXPERIENCE

From

the founders of Drybar

IT’S APP-SOLUTELY STRESS-FREE

Book, pay, tip, rate & review in the app.

EXTRAS DON’T COST EXTRA

Deep tissue, heat therapy, percussion therapy & aromatherapy at no additional charge.

CONTROL FREAK? NO PROBLEM

Control music, lighting & therapist reentry using our “ready button ”

FOR EVERY MEMBERSHIP SOLD

Squeeze is helping to provide a day of canine support to a person with a disability through Canine Companions.

WHY SQUEEZE?

Squeeze was born out of a love for massages, aiming to bridge the gap between luxurious spas and budget-friendly massage chains. From booking your massage to paying for your session, Squeeze was created to revolutionize and simplify the massage experience. Squeeze is changing how we think about massages, redefining the spa experience for the modern consumer.

SQUEEZE OFFERS A VARIETY OF PRICING & MONTHLY MEMBERSHIP PROGRAMS:

MAIN MEMBERSHIP

$125 ONE 80-MIN MASSAGE

($159 VALUE) PER MONTH

MID MEMBERSHIP

$95 ONE 50-MIN MASSAGE ($129 VALUE) PER MONTH

MAIN SQUEEZE

$159 ONE 80-MIN MASSAGE

PAY-PER-SQUEEZE

MID SQUEEZE

$129 ONE 50-MIN MASSAGE

PAY-PER-SQUEEZE

Capturing It All

The Olive Grey Photography Experience

At Olive Grey Photography, led by the visionary Kelsey Long, every photoshoot transforms into an empowering and luxurious experience. Olive Grey isn't just about capturing beautiful photographs; it's about crafting an immersive journey that celebrates and elevates every individual’s unique story.

THE OLIVE GREY EXPERIENCE

From the moment you engage with Olive Grey, you are embraced by a full-service, luxurious photoshoot experience. Expect professional hair and makeup, personal styling, guided posing, and a VIP reveal session where you can savor your favorite images. This all-inclusive approach ensures that clients not only look stunning but feel truly seen and celebrated.

SPECIALIZATIONS AND OFFERINGS

Olive Grey specializes in luxury portrait photography, including sessions for individuals, couples, and families. They also offer high-end commercial branding and content creation. Clients can enjoy custom museum-quality prints, framed canvases, and bespoke albums, designed to become cherished family heirlooms.

THE TEAM

The Olive Grey team, led by Kelsey and Operations Manager Tori Miller, includes short-form video creators, social media managers, and a website/graphic designer. Each member brings exceptional talent and dedication, ensuring every project is handled with care and creativity.

A PERSONAL TOUCH: KELSEY LONG’S FAVORITE MOMENTS

Kelsey Long finds joy in witnessing clients light up in front of the camera and fall in love with themselves anew. Her favorite moments include partnering with clients on their transformation journeys, creating lasting memories for families, and helping businesses find confidence and clarity. These experiences are a testament to her passion and dedication.

“We have been thrilled to have become more of a creative house as a support for businesses and individuals to provide a wide range of creative services.”

THE WOMEN IN FREEDOM PROJECT

A hallmark of Olive Grey is the Women in Freedom Project, dedicated to women overcoming life's challenges—be it past hurts, health issues, or personal transformations. This project offers a safe and celebratory space for women to rediscover their strength and beauty. The sessions are designed to be life-changing, as women see themselves in a new light, celebrating their stories and inspiring others to embrace their freedom.

THE FUTURE OF OLIVE GREY

Olive Grey is evolving into a creative hub, supporting businesses and individuals with a range of services. The team, trained to the Olive Grey standard, excels in creating highend imagery and short form video that makes clients shine. Their dedication to integrity and organization ensures every project is executed with excellence, whether for personal or commercial needs.

INSPIRATION AND COMMUNITY

Kelsey draws inspiration from deep client connections, the fashion industry, and the natural world. Her love for the

Lakewood Ranch community, where she has been a part since 2002, adds a personal touch to her work.

A MEMORABLE NOTE

The Women in Freedom Photoshoots stand out as some of Kelsey’s most memorable experiences. Seeing a woman’s transformation into a powerful, worthy individual is profoundly moving and spiritually fulfilling. These moments of revelation are what make Kelsey’s work truly impactful.

BEGIN YOUR JOURNEY

Ready to experience a transformative photography session? Start your journey with Olive Grey Photography and let your story unfold through a collaboration that resonates with you.

CONTACT OLIVE GREY

For more information, reach out to Kelsey Long at kelsey@ olivegreyphotography or visit olivegreyphotography.com Follow them on Instagram @olivegreyphotography and @kelseylong__ to glimpse their world of creativity and elegance.

As you enter La Chíc Bohème, you will be swept away by our Signature Scent, elevated acoustics, and beautiful design features throughout. Our spa rituals are rooted in their deep connection to our natural environment, drawing from the curative properties of the ocean, and land around us.

Each treatment room has been designed to create a space for guests’ individual transformation, body, mind and spirit. Pocket doors can be opened between our treatment rooms to easily accommodate couples or small groups and our stunning wet room has the perfect ambiance for our luxury body treatments, while our beauty lounge with its vintage inspired lash beds will send you into a peaceful slumber during your lash appointments.

In our Day Spa, our Signature Facials, Body Treatments and Massage Rituals are sure to impress! Premium skincare products combine with the latest technology to bring you the best of both worlds, designed with both relaxation and results in mind. Guests of our Day Spa will also enjoy access to our cozy Himalayan salt room with infrared sauna as they decompress prior to their treatment.

For those of you seeking permanent makeup or cosmetic procedures, our experienced permanent cosmetics artists are second to none! In our Med Spa, we combine the best wellness and beauty treatments using the industry’s latest technology and procedures for optimal results. Experience the rejuvenating effects of microneedling, the volumizing benefits of dermal fillers, and the wrinklesmoothing power of injectables. All delivered with personalized care and attention to detail in a calm and relaxing atmosphere.

Be sure to take advantage of some retail therapy in our style house, fully equipped with the latest premium fashion and luxury beauty products. With an emphasis on quality and style, La Chíc.

Founder & CEO

Holly Sharpe

Here’s How

Our

Spa Membership Program Works, Simple & Straightforward…

Membership Dues Are $250 Per Month And The Full $250 Worth Of Membership Credits Are Applied To Your Account With Each Membership Payment | You Can Use 100% Of Your Monthly Membership Credits For Any Combination Of La Chíc Bohème Services And/Or Retail Purchases | Unused Credits Roll Over Each Month While Membership Remains Active

Signature Spa Membership Benefits:

Premium Membership Welcome Gift With Signature

Membership Initiation | Exclusive Member Pricing: Save Up To 40% On La Chíc Bohème Services | 20% Off Full-Priced Retail Products + Merchandise Everyday | Additional 5% Off Sale & Clearance Retail + Merchandise | Access To Online Booking

Standing Appointments | Monthly Gift with Spa Visit

Member Only Early Access Hours To Spa Retreat

From 9AM – 11 AM Monday – Friday

Exclusive Unlimited Member Access to Salt Room + Sauna

Earn A $50 Credit For Every New Member You Refer To La Chíc Bohème For Signature - Membership | To Ensure An Intimate, Exclusive Experience, Membership Application & Approval Is Required | Our Signature Membership Requires A Six Month Commitment And A $50 Initiation Fee

Get exclusive access to Member Pricing, Special Events, Memberonly Promotions, and personalized services designed to elevate your experience. Enjoy consistent self-care, stress relief, and improved well-being while connecting with a like-minded community.

STELLA ROSE EVENTS

From Inflatable Bounce Houses to Elegant Wedding Rentals

ARTICLE BY BROOKE BEZET

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROOHI PHOTOGRAPHY

Stella Rose Events, a premier luxury event rental company, has been enchanting clients on the Suncoast since its official launch in 2022. The company boasts its name after the Mccoys' only daughter, who also happens to have a puppy named Rosie who she has now deemed the official mascot.

“We carry a substantial inventory in our 8,000-square-foot warehouse, which allows us to maintain our rentals to the highest standards of cleanliness and quality,” Jenna McCoy explains.

With over 15 years of experience in the events industry, the journey of Stella Rose Events began with the launch of Let's Jump Events in 2010. What began as a small venture for a then stay-at-home mom, Jenna McCoy, has blossomed into a thriving business run by both Jenna and her husband, Corey. Lets Jump Events quickly transformed into the area’s largest inflatable bounce house and water slide rental company. Recognizing a growing demand for exceptional event services, the concept behind Stella Rose began to take shape in 2020. By 2022, Stella Rose officially launched, aiming to provide unparalleled customer service and exquisite rental products.

Stella Rose Events is supported by a close-knit family, including four sons as well: Cooper, 19, Hunter, 15, Porter, 11, and Jackson, 7. Cooper and Hunter are actively involved in the business, embodying the

family’s commitment to excellence and personalized service along with a team of around a dozen additional outstanding members.

Primarily serving the area of Ft. Myers to Tampa, they also travel to other destinations to meet their clients' needs. They have had the privilege of working with numerous prestigious venues, including the Ringling, Crosley Mansion, New College Hall, Gasparilla Inn on Boca Grande, and Longboat Key Club to name a few. They also cherish the unique charm of many other venues including many home parties.

Stella Rose provides an impressive selection of rental items, with their lounge collections featuring over 13 colors in a handful of distinctive styles.  The Stella, Rose, Hunter, and Jackson collections are their main with each offering a unique aesthetic.

The Hunter Collection stands out as a client favorite. With its ash wood accents and coastal vibes, this collection adds a touch of elegance and charm to any event. Paired with matching ash wood and white dance floors, this collection sets the perfect ambiance for coastal weddings and sophisticated gatherings.  The company also provides a variety of chairs, from bamboo, cross-backs, chiavari and ghost chairs which they have whimsically named Casper. Additionally, clients can choose from three other color styles of dance floors and staging, as well as custom branding options on their Ringling collection of various bars, bar backs and cocktail tables.

The company’s logistics include handling all pickup and delivery of their items, typically at a flat rate. To ensure smooth operations, two team members remain on standby, ready to handle any emergencies that might arise. Over the past 15 years, Lets Jump Events and Stella Rose Events has prided itself on its impeccable record, never arriving late to an event start time.

While Stella Rose Events often collaborates with planners, Jenna notes “We are equally enthusiastic about working directly with clients. We appreciate the creativity and vision that both planners and individual clients bring to the table, making each event a unique and enjoyable experience”.

Jenna emphasizes, “All events are special when you’re celebrating with people you love. We value each event equally and strive to provide exceptional service for every occasion.”

In addition to event rentals, Stella Rose Events offers a range of entertainment options, including mechanical bulls, interactive games, inflatable obstacle courses, bounce houses and water slides, which are particularly popular for birthday parties under the Lets Jump Events brand.

For those interested in viewing their rental furniture collections or learning more about their services, Stella Rose Events welcomes you to schedule an appointment by contacting them at (941) 212-0416 or visiting their website at  StellaRoseEvents.com. Make your next event truly memorable with Stella Rose Events.

THE BALLOON BABE

ARTICLE BY BROOKE BEZET

PHOTOGRAPHY BY BALLOON BABE Ashley Bevington’s Creative Journey

The Balloon Babe was a delightful serendipity for Ashley Bevington. After moving to Florida two and a half years ago with her family, Ashley, who left a corporate medical sales career to stay home with her young children, found herself navigating the challenges of a new town and two babies under two. When her daughter Clara’s first birthday approached, Ashley decided to take on the task of DIY balloon decorations. Her friend’s encouragement led her to turn this newfound passion into a business. Within a week, she had an LLC, a brand identity, and a business plan. Thus, The Balloon Babe was born.

The Balloon Babe caters to a wide array of events, including corporate gatherings, birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, baby showers, bridal showers, and weddings. While primarily serving Sarasota County and surrounding areas, Ashley has also created stunning designs for clients in Fort Myers, Naples, and Tampa.

Ashley’s work spans a diverse range of themes, with Disney-inspired designs being a favorite. A memorable project involved creating balloon and backdrop displays for characters like Rapunzel, Cinderella, Elsa, and Ariel at UTC Mall’s Disney princess day.

Beyond balloons, The Balloon Babe offers an extensive inventory of rentals, including metal and wooden backdrops, sequin shimmer walls, floral walls, peacock chairs, rugs, and more. Ashley emphasizes the importance of booking at least two to three months in advance, though she strives to accommodate last-minute requests whenever possible.

Ashley’s favorite part of the job is connecting with clients and industry experts, enriching the community with her unique, hands-on approach to event design and personalization.

The Balloon Babe: Quick Facts

• Owner: Ashley Bevington

• Specialties & Services: Custom balloon art, party planning, bounce house rentals, balloon garlands, event consulting, rentals

• Experience: Nearly 20 years in event planning and design

• Location: Southwest Florida

• Quality: Premium, hand-crafted balloon designs tailored to each event

• Client Focus: Affordable, personalized décor solutions for birthdays, weddings, corporate events, and more

• Social Media: Follow for inspiration and updates

• Packages: Custom packages to fit various budgets

• Reviews: Highly rated for creativity and professionalism

• Eco-Friendly: Uses eco-friendly balloons and materials when possible

• Booking: Simple online booking process. Visit their website: https://theballoonbabe.com/

• Instagram: @the.balloon.babe https://www.instagram. com/the.balloon.babe

• Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/ theballoonbabesarasota/

Discovery

PROPRIETARY

PARENT/TEACHER

EARLY

CHILDREN

PROCARE,

CONTACTLESS,

SUMMER,

Tiger Lily Floral

A Blossoming Tradition with a New Vision

You may have heard of Tiger Lily Floral, a staple in the Sarasota area for the past 23 years. This beloved floral studio, renowned for its exquisite arrangements and impeccable service, has been a cornerstone in the community. But what you might not know is that a year and a half ago, Petra Thomas became the new owner, ushering in a fresh era for this cherished institution.

Petra, originally from England, brings a rich background in floristry to Tiger Lily Floral. She studied floral design at the prestigious West Sussex Floral School and honed her craft as a freelance florist.

Petra and her family often visited Sarasota, captivated by its charm and beauty, and dreamt of one day calling it home. That dream became a reality when Petra acquired Tiger Lily Floral, infusing it with her passion and creativity.

Tiger Lily Floral specializes in creating breathtaking arrangements for weddings, working with some of the most iconic venues in the area, including The Ringling, Art Ovation, Powel Crosley Estate, and Marie Selby Gardens. Whether it’s centerpieces,

arches, bouquets, vases, votives, or candles, they provide everything needed to make events truly memorable. During the bustling wedding season, their dedicated team of six serves the Sarasota, Tampa, Naples, Venice, and Myakka areas, ensuring each event is nothing short of spectacular. Petra values the unwavering support of her husband and kids, who play an integral role in the business.

“The best parts are seeing it all come together, the client's reaction, and the thank-you's or Google reviews,” explains Petra.

Tiger Lily Floral also offers everyday flowers, delivering custom-designed arrangements to Manatee and Sarasota counties. Each creation is unique, ensuring no cookie-cutter designs, and reflecting the artistry and individuality that Tiger Lily Floral is known for.

With Petra at the helm, Tiger Lily Floral continues to bloom, blending tradition with a fresh perspective, and remaining the go-to florist in Sarasota for all occasions.

“The best parts are seeing it all come together and the client’s reaction,” explains Petra. “

Karianne Rose

With a deep understanding of your unique housing needs, Karianne is the go-to professional for healthcare practitioners in the region. As the sole Certified DRS Agent in the area, her professionalism and expertise are unparalleled. Karianne provides personalized guidance and support to ensure her clients receive exceptional service throughout their real estate journey in Southwest Florida. Your Physician’s & Dentist’s Real Estate Concierge

Karianne Rose is a highly accomplished REALTOR® specializing in serving medical professionals in Southwest Florida.

KARIANNE ROSE REALTOR® | RSPS, RENE, DRS Agent m 724.777.1518 | o 941.999.1179 karianne@lwrhome.com SL3527230

CONTACT KARIANNE OR VISIT doctorsonthemoveflorida.com FOR MORE INFORMATION

Your Sarasota Luxury Hair Salon

Modish Salon is women founded where their mission to leave you feeling elevated and empowered. The backbone of our salon is education, you will find us traveling often to Los Angeles, New York, Utah and Vegas to bring you the latest. Invisible Bead Extensions is our extension method of choice and we were recently nominated as the #1 IBE Salon worldwide. Our

SILVIA COSTA

Silvia Costa, co-founder of Via La Casa, showcases her artistic talent and refined taste in Lakewood Ranch. As a hyper-realism painter and the buyer for the gift and home section of Via La Casa, a home, coffee, and art café in San Marco Plaza, Silvia merges rich cultural influences into her paintings and home decor selections.

Originally from Brazil, Silvia’s husband is Italian, and their love for travel infuses diverse styles into her work. Silvia began painting when her daughters left for college. Seeking a new purpose, she felt inspired to paint and dedicated four weeks to classes. Using her own photos as references, Silvia creates hyper-realistic oil paintings in her home studio, spending up to seven hours each day for two months on each piece. Her works, such as "Pelican" and "Man Bailing Water," reflect her meticulous approach, blending colors to perfection.

Silvia's paintings are all about capturing every intricate detail of her photographs. Her hyper-realism style demands that every part of the photo be in focus, allowing her to bring an extraordinary level of detail and accuracy to her canvas. "It’s overwhelming to start a painting at the beginning but you take it one step at a time. Just like life, you do what you can," Silvia states.

Silvia’s favorite subjects include landscapes, still life, and people, each painting telling a unique story. Her art can be bought as prints at Via La Casa.

"Decoration should touch you, it should speak to you and have meaning," Silvia shares. She believes in mixing trendy items with

timeless, valuable pieces. One of Silvia’s favorite aspects of decorating is the tablescape, where she emphasizes the importance of intention and hospitality. “You are sending a message that you love the people you are doing it for. There is intention, hospitality, love, and care when you set the table,” she expresses. For dinner parties, she advises against tall centerpieces to facilitate conversation.

Silvia describes her style as European, chic, and traditional. She enjoys combining clean, white colors with family heirlooms and modern pieces. One of her favorite decorating techniques is mixing old with new, such as pairing French antique tables with new Italian linens.

“You are sending a message that you love the people you are doing it for. There is intention, hospitality, love, and care when you set the table,”

Silvia expresses.

As Silvia heads to market this season, she aims to find more gift items for Via La Casa, including her beloved faux flowers, antique European treasures, Vietri vases, and specialty jams and popcorn.

At Via La Casa, a family-owned business she runs with her daughter Gabriella Moss, visitors can enjoy coffee, pastries, or wine while shopping for unique merchandise and admiring Silvia’s paintings.

Visit Via La Casa:

Address: 8209 Natures Way UNIT 121, Bradenton, FL 34202

Phone: (941) 210-4436

ARTICLE BY BROOKE BEZET

PHOTOGRAPHY BY GULF COAST CUSTOM DESIGNS

GULF COAST CUSTOM DESIGNS

CRAFTING UNIQUE BEAUTY

Gulf Coast Custom Designs, led by Tricia in Sarasota, Florida, specializes in creating unique, handcrafted wood and resin art. From custom-made tables to home decor, each piece is made with care and sourced from both the United States and the Mediterranean. Tricia also offers epoxy resin art classes, inviting the community to explore their creative side. Her website showcases a variety of collections, including charcuterie boards, home decor, and more. Explore Tricia’s work and discover the beauty of personalized, artistic creations at  https://gulfcoastcustomdesigns.com.

SEPTEMBER 1ST

Farmers’ Market at Lakewood Ranch

Waterside Place: 1561 Lakefront Dr, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34240 | 10:00 AM

Every Sunday from 10 AM to 2 PM at Waterside Place, this market features local vendors selling fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal products.

SEPTEMBER 2ND

Trivia Night at Good Liquid Brewing Co.

Waterside Place - 1570 Lakefront Drive, Sarasota, FL 34240 | 7:00 PM

Join the fun every Monday night from 7 PM to 9 PM for a trivia challenge with friends and family. Enjoy craft beers and test your knowledge on various topics.

SEPTEMBER 5TH

Field Bocce

Waterside Place - 1570 Lakefront Drive, Sarasota, FL 34240 | 11:00 AM

A fun, casual event that is a great way to meet new people and enjoy the outdoors.

Good news happening right in your neighborhood.

Inspiration for your best local life.

Exclusive giveaways.

Hidden gem alert!

Local content by local creators.

As Central and South Florida’s only Master Rug Cleaner™ Certified rug washing facility, we understand that not all rugs should be cleaned the same.

For over 70 years, Sarasota Carpet and Cleaning has been locally owned and operated, caring for hand-woven, hand-knotted, and machine-made rugs for our clients – your neighbors! Whether a Persian Shiraz, an antique Navajo, an art-deco Chinese, or a more modern choice plucked from the pages of your favorite website or catalog, we know that the best cleaning begins with understanding your rug’s construction and handling your rug in the safest way, prolonging the use and enjoyment of your investment.

We have the experience and expertise to understand your rug’s specific considerations with honest advice and straightforward pricing.

CONTINUED

SEPTEMBER 6TH

Music on Main

Lakewood Ranch Main Street | 6:00 PM

Held on the first Friday of every month, this event will take place on September 6th from 6 PM to 9 PM. It’s a free concert series and block party with local food vendors, beer trucks, sponsor booths, and activities for kids. This month will feature Cassie Jean & The Fireflies, with proceeds benefiting the Lakewood Ranch Community Foundation.

SEPTEMBER 20TH - 21ST

The Gathering Women’s Event

Lakewood Ranch Campus | 15800 FL-64, Bradenton, FL 34212 | 5:30 PM

Grab your ladies and come for a night of worship, encouragement, and lots of fun at Bayside Community Church! This event will be offered on two nights, making it easy for you and your friends to attend. Tickets are $20 and include dinner.

SEPTEMBER 21ST - 22ND

Florida Extreme Cup Soccer Tournament

Premier Sports Campus | 8:00 AM

Scheduled for September 21-22 at the Premier Sports Campus, this tournament features teams from U9 to U19 competing for a spot in the Florida Winter Cup & Showcase. The event includes vendors, experienced tournament management, and on-site athletic trainers.