Loveland & South, CO September 2023

The Style Issue

HOME + DESIGN CASA DE CRISTAL STYLE + BEAUTY HOW TO STYLE

NORTHERN COLORADO STYLE: EMBRACING THE LOCAL LOOKS

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

EMPOWERED WOMEN ARE ALWAYS IN STYLE

SEPTEMBER 2023

The Style Issue

Style is in everything. The way we present and express ourselves, how we move through life, in the way we design our homes, even our culinary choices. Whether big or small, the details of our lives are rooted in our style.

As ambiguous and subjective as style can be, there are constant trends and fads that sway and change our styles from time to time. The transition of seasons and weather, old trends reappearing decades later, new fads that seem to go as quickly as they come, they all contribute to the ebb and flow of our own style.

While style shows up in almost every aspect of our lives, living in Northern Colorado contributes to not only our outward style, but inward as well. There’s no doubt our natural surroundings affect the way we live our lives and that in turn influences our self expression. While there is luxury and high end expression in Loveland, the active lifestyle and outdoorsy nature of many residents adds an element to Northern Colorado’s style that can’t be found anywhere else. Our unique blend of mountain aesthetics, expensive hobbies, and epic need for all things local and inviting, the curated culture of Loveland has made for an eclectic style that is truly one of a kind.

Our issue explores style within Northern Colorado and highlights members of our community that continue to improve our community’s culture; making Loveland the fashionable place to live in every aspect of our lives!

September 2023

PUBLISHERS

Jahna Eichel | jahna.eichel@citylifestyle.com

Jason Eichel | jason.eichel@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Macey VanDenMeerendonk macey.v@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Morgan Henderson morgan@thecreativeagencyco.com

ACCOUNT MANAGERS

Matthew Hart | matthew@thecreativeagencyco.com

Paula Megenhardt | paula@thecreativeagencyco.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Tony Deyo | tony@thecreativeagencyco.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

The Creative Agency hello@thecreativeagencyco.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Allie Bellows

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Josh Govero

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

Want

Casa de Cristal

NICHE DESIGN HOUSE'S LATEST GEM

Tucked within the majestic embrace of the Rockies, Estes Park sparkles with myriad treasures. From the awe-inspiring grandiosity of Long’s Peak and the renowned Rocky Mountain National Park to the bustling avenues of Estes, this enclave promises a myriad of adventures for every wanderlust soul. Travel up the winding roads that lead to the latest project by Niche Design House.

For those yearning for luxury amidst their mountain sojourn, Casa de Cristal emerges as the ultimate sanctuary. This freshly revamped property masterfully juxtaposes the rugged beauty of the

Rockies with sophisticated interior elegance, thanks to the visionary designers at Niche Design House. Casa de Cristal now shines as Estes Park's newest jewel.

Drawing inspiration from its breathtaking locale, Niche Design House has innovatively transformed this stellar property, breathing new life and purpose into every corner.

As the pinnacle of interior design in Northern Colorado, Niche Design House's impeccable craftsmanship on Casa de Cristal is a testament to the transformative power of design excellence.

Casa de Cristal has undergone a transformative renovation. By harnessing

natural light and blending the external landscape into its design, this rental property has evolved into an unparalleled sanctuary.

Each of the three levels of the home were redesigned with a balance of flow and function to create an intuitive ease and comfort within the practical layout. The designers also integrated luxury and elegance in harmony with the sweeping views that embraced the majesty of the surrounding mountains.

From the moment of entering Casa de Cristal, the breathtaking view of the Rockies immediately welcomes you. The stunning mountain-scape was the inspiration for the carefully crafted interior design— a beautiful contrast from the luxurious indoors to the rugged outdoors. This interaction between the setting and the polished interior is what creates a unique and artistic aesthetic.

The idea of beauty within beauty is reflected in this space, everywhere you look. Previously dark and outdated, the main space of Casa de Cristal is now spacious and harmonious with the rugged terrain that lies just out the doors. The unexpected details are what make the design distinctive. Nothing says luxury quite like the grand chandelier in the main area, unexpected from a cabin in the woods. Each accessory and piece of furniture was hand selected from brands such as Hi-End

Accents, Uttermost, Feizy, Renwil, Surya, and Hooker. It all works together to create this high-end aesthetic.

Reminiscent of a quaint mountain cabin, but with the opulence of this impressive design, the polished travertine-clad fireplace is the perfect example of incorporating elements of the previous design into the new. It’s a perfect place for all that stay here to gather and sit around the fire and partake in the age-old tradition of telling stories around a roaring fire.

By expanding the once-narrow hallways on Casa de Cristal's upper floor, the breathtaking views are further integrated into the home's layout. The seamless extension of polished travertine from the main level to the upper floor ensures a harmonious transition throughout.

The basement of Casa de Cristal serves as a communal hub, curated specifically for vibrant social interactions and enjoyment. The inclusion of a bunk room infuses a playful, child-friendly atmosphere. Simultaneously, the area exudes the ambiance of a chic local tavern—a spot where every face is familiar, all while maintaining the sophisticated elegance inherent to the rest of the home.

Utilizing the same flagstone found in the property's outdoor spaces within the basement establishes a harmonious transition from the rugged outdoors to the elegant indoors. The presence of local reclaimed wood

echoes the enchanting aura of the Rocky Mountains. It's this intricate blend of outdoor and indoor elements that sets this residence apart as a unique masterpiece.

Pool tables, high-top tables, and casual lounge seating make this basement space versatile and encourages its guests to enjoy their time by relaxing, connecting, and playing games. This pub-like atmosphere is the perfect place to unwind and put your feet up.

Every piece of furniture in the home has been thoughtfully selected, prioritizing both comfort and functionality. Each area seamlessly flows into the next, retaining its distinct character and purpose. Notably, the basement's plush, low-slung furnishings enhance its ambient lounge vibe.

Masterfully renovated by the talented team at Niche Design House, Casa de Cristal emerges as a beacon of luxury and elegance amidst the rugged backdrop of the Rockies. Experience a haven of unparalleled sophistication, truly a gem in its rawest setting.

Sara, Niche Design House

ESTES PARK FUN FACTS:

• The town was named for Joel Estes and his wife Patsy, who traveled from Kentucky to become the first permanent residents.

• The layout of the town was established within the first decade of its founding and remains mostly intact to this day.

• There are several places in Estes Park on the National Historic Register, including the Stanley Hotel, Moraine Park, McGraw Ranch, Fall River Pump House, Leiffer House, and more.

"The remodel of Casa de Cristal wasn't just about aesthetic transformation; it was about capturing the essence of the Rockies through thoughtful use of local materials and a design that opens up to the breathtaking surroundings, we've created a space that resonates with both the tranquility of nature and the luxury of modern living. This is more than a home; it's an experience that echoes the beauty of Estes Park." —

COOPERATIVE VOICES

Empowered Women Are Always

In Style

The Unstoppable Women’s Business Conference educates, encourages, and empowers female entrepreneurs

ARTICLE BY ALLIE BELLOWS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TONY DEYO

Some things never go out of style, like a little black dress or red lipstick. One thing we can add to this list is supporting women-owned businesses. No one in Northern Colorado is doing more to support women entrepreneurs than the Small Business Development Centers. With 15 full-time centers and 70 part-time satellite centers, the SBDC has helped 266 local start-up businesses.

The SBDC offers entrepreneurs no-cost consulting and low-cost training to succeed and thrive in the businesses they create for the communities they serve. Last year, the SBDC brought back the Women’s Small Business Conference after an extended Covid pause. The 2022 event was the most successful in the history of the conference and this year the trend is continuing.

Formerly the NOCO Women’s Small Business Conference, it is a day designed for women entrepreneurs to learn, gain inspiration, and network. Now the Unstoppable

Women’s Business Conference, it is also a special day of education and encouragement for women business owners. This year’s theme, Educate, Encourage, and Empower, is exactly what will happen on October 10 at this conference.

We sat down with some of the organizers of the conference—Kat Hart, Program Director of the Loveland Business Development Center, Hope Hartman, Executive Director of the Larimer County SBDC, and Lisa Hudson, Executive Director of the East Colorado SBDC. As entrepreneurs themselves, these women have so much insight to share into what it means to be a woman entrepreneur and what it takes to succeed in business. They have a passion for helping small businesses succeed and thrive in their local economy and beyond.

WHAT IS THE OVERALL GOAL FOR THIS YEAR'S CONFERENCE?

KH: We really want attendees to walk away and think, ‘Hey, I learned something

new! I can actually do this!’ We don’t want these things to feel overwhelming. We also want to make sure that they’re connected with a good support network because no one is an island. No one can do this by themselves.

HH: The premise of the conference is not only to serve women small business owners but to look at the composition of it. 75% educational and 25% inspirational. The presenters, they are inspirational. They inspire even if they’re trying to teach whatever topic their session is.

LH: I think it goes back to why we chose the theme we did—Educate, Empower, and Engage.

HH: Business owners, in general, tend to go it alone quite a bit. We really are stronger together. People are willing to share the lessons they’ve learned along the way, whether it’s resources or a shortcut.  When you create this environment for everybody to come together people are like ‘I’m not alone. There are a lot of

"BUILDING UP TO THIS ANNUAL EVENT, IT’S ABOUT REALLY EMPOWERING ONE ANOTHER AS WOMEN LEADERS AND MEETING MORE AND ENGAGING AND BUILDING THAT NETWORK." - LISA HUDSON

people trying to do what I’m doing!’ and so it just creates this energy.

HOW IS THIS YEAR'S CONFERENCE DIFFERENT FROM PREVIOUS YEARS?

KH: We always strive to just do everything bigger and better than the previous year. We try to be more inclusive and have more relevant content.  I think one of the biggest changes from previous years is that we sourced from speakers that from outside of our own personal networks. We did an open call for presenters and we got an overwhelming response. Over half of them have never presented for us before, which I think is really cool.

HH: We opened it up to the marketplace to see what topics are top of mind for women entrepreneurs, and that’s how we selected what was being presented this year.

LH: There are 50% returning speakers and the rest have never presented at this conference. They’re new to us, but they had to submit a video. The rigor that they had to go through just to submit the topic, let us know they are willing to put in the effort to make it awesome. I think it’s going to change the conference in a good way.

HOW HAS THIS CONFERENCE IMPACTED YOUR LIFE AND CAREER?

KH: I grew up with a mother that was very involved in supporting other women’s professional development within the Hispanic community in Greeley. Being able to be at the helm of one of these events, supporting other women, it just feels like this great continuation of what she was trying to do and trying to empower me to do and now I get to help other

women do the same thing and connect with each other on this really cool, big scale.

HH: For me, it’s the highlight of the year. This is my favorite thing that we do. There is something about creating an event with a group of women. The whole organizing team is a group of women from different centers, all pulling the resources together, building that energy behind the scenes. Building an event that creates energy is just something to be cherished.

LH: We have so much momentum going into this year from last year. Building up to this annual event, it’s about really empowering one another as women leaders and meeting more and engaging and building that network.

This year's conference has an incredible line-up of speakers, including Anika Sawni, a 25 year-old entrepreneur who was named one of Forbes 30 Under 30. Anika has taken the beverage industry by storm. Driven by her vision to change the way people drink and think about non-alcoholic beverages, Anika created the brand Grüvi. Now available in more than 4,000 stores, Grüvi is one of the fastest-growing non-alcoholic brands in North America. In addition to Anika, more than fifteen other speakers at the conference will educate and inspire all that attend.

The Unstoppable Women’s Business Conference takes place on October 10, from 8:30 am to 5 pm, at the Aims Community College Welcome Center, located at 4901 West 20th Street, in Greeley. Tickets can be purchased at the SBDC website, eastcoloradosbdc. com/what-we-dounstoppable-womensbusiness-conference/

Northern Colorado women are always on the go and Apricot Lane Boutique is on top of the trends for any occasion. Whether you’re going for an athleisure aesthetic, an outfit for a night out on the town, or a casual look to hit the endless breweries, wineries, and local fun that Loveland offers, Apricot Lane is a one-stop shop. Their curated store is styled by their own employees and with so many unique styles and pieces, you’re sure to find something that not only matches your style, but heightens your closet and turns heads when out and about.

The variety of brands, their most popular being Mable, Free People, Kancan, Good American, and Charlie Southern, is what makes the boutique stand out while catering to their customers. With fall fast approaching, the styles in their store will soon be transitioning from vibrant summer tops to elevated knit sweaters. The unique cold weather pieces in their store will cultivate fall wardrobes while keeping on trend.

With the Colorado lifestyle ranging from on the go and in the mountains to casual settings like wineries and strolling farmers markets, the versatility of your closet is a must. With local brands and styling, Apricot Lane is the perfect place to find your must have style staples.

B E F O R E

A F T E R

C h a n g i n g L i v e s !

k s , I l o s t a t o t a l o f 3 8 p o u n d s ! M y m e s s a g e t o e v e r y o n e i s : v i s i t t h e C l u b , d o t h e F r e e T r i a l a n d t h e n j o i n , s i g n u p f o r y o u r F r e e C o n s u l t a t i o n w i t h a T r a i n e r ; t h e y w i l l b e c o m e y o u r s e c o n d " h o m e " a s w e l l !

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THE little BLACK DRESS

Most of us can say we have that one staple black dress that can be worn at any occasion, and the classic look is not only popular but is elegant and timeless. It is the dress in our closet that can be accessorized to fit the event and often is the dress we go back to time and again. It is one of the most versatile items we own, never goes out of style and looks good on anyone. But how did this classic look originate?

Prior to the 1920’s, black was reserved for funeral wear, but when Coco Channel made the bold move to print a short, black dress on the cover of Vogue in 1926, all of that changed. The popularity of the black dress skyrocketed, and it became one of the most influential pieces of clothing. Chanel transported fashion from tight corsets and bustles to straight-lined silhouettes. Because of its affordability, black remained a popular choice during The Great Depression. The black dress had another boom in popularity when “Breakfast at Tiffany’s’’ debuted, and Audrey Hepburn showcased her iconic black dress with long, black gloves. Today, people accessorize the black dress to fit any occasion.

We enlisted the help of stylist, Amani Skalacki, to show us how versatile the little black dress can be.

“We usually think of the little black dress as a piece you wear to an event. However, because black is so flattering on all body types and skin tones, women have multiple black dresses from casual to evening,” Amani says.

Although black is a timeless, classic look, that doesn’t mean it goes without personality. You can make it your own style by accessorizing to infuse new life into a dress that you already own.

“A sequin dress can be dressed up with heels, or that same dress can be transformed into a casual outfit with the addition of tennis shoes and an oversized blazer or a denim jacket. Transform that strappy dress you have been wearing all summer into an outfit that is perfect for chilly fall temperatures. Add a narrow scarf, a leather jacket and sandals or a tall pointy boot, and you have a whole new look for an evening out,” Amani adds.

If you have a dress in the back of your closet that you haven’t worn in years, don’t be afraid to dust it off and give it new life. “Take that evening gown you wore years ago to a tailor for a little transformation. Turn it into a high low dress-top that can be worn out with girlfriends or on a date night. Pair the top with leather leggings, ankle boots, a chunky belt and some statement jewelry, and now you have a piece that pushes the boundaries of the little black dress.”

Are you looking for the best cut or style of dress that works best for your body type? Amani provided this simple guide:

HOURGLASS FIGURE:

• V-necklines

• Cinched-in waistlines

• Tailored/fitted dresses

PEAR OR TRIANGLE FIGURE:

• Tailored dresses

• Off the shoulder

ATHLETIC FIGURE:

• Embellished

• Ruffles

• Empire waist

• Volume is your friend

APPLE FIGURE:

• Drop waist

• A-line

The dress that all body types can’t go wrong with is a wrap dress of any length.

events

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

SEPTEMBER 2ND

Billy Idol at the Budweiser Events Center

BUDWEISER EVENTS CENTER | 7:30 PM

Rock Legend Billy Idol will be performing on September 2, 2023 at the Budweiser Events Center. Catch the epic show and his iconic fist-pumping in person for a night of punk rock fun. Tickets can be purchased at www.treventscomplex.com/events/detail/billy-idol

SEPTEMBER 9TH

Pastels on 5th Street – Chalk Art

5TH STREET BETWEEN CLEVELAND AND LINCOLN AVENUES | 10:00 AM

This free event offers live music, a kids art area, food vendors, a market of handmade items, and chalk art by nearly 150 artists! This event supports Alternatives to Violence, a Loveland nonprofit serving survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault and human trafficking.

SEPTEMBER 10TH

Honey Festival at Loveland Farmers Market

FAIRGROUNDS PARK | 9:00 AM

The Honey Festival is an addition to the Loveland Farmers Market in Fairgrounds Park. The festival will have honey vendors, mead tasting, bee-friendly gardening, honey and bee themed products for purchase, demo beehives, and a kid zone!

SEPTEMBER 16TH

41st Annual Fall Holistic Fair

THE RANCH EVENTS COMPLEX | 10:00 AM

At this two-day holistic fair, attendees can explore alternative choices for taking care of their body, mind, spirit and the environment. This fair offers the chance to discover yourself through astrology, tarot, palmistry, clairvoyant readings, aura portraits, and psychic development classes, along with other intuitive arts. Attendees can also shop from the creative vendors and artisans.

SEPTEMBER 16TH

Loveland Chocolate Festival 2023

THE RANCH EVENTS COMPLEX | 11:00 AM

The annual chocolate festival, hosted by Dana Cain Events, showcases some of the best local, regional, and national chocolatiers. Attendees will get the chance to sample chocolate-based treats and discover new and exciting creations, along with classic favorites. Get your tickets at danacainevents.regfox.com/ tickets-loveland-chocolate-festival-2023

SEPTEMBER 16TH

Loveland Oktoberfest

700 S RAILROAD AVE. LOVELAND, CO | 2:30 PM

This event for all ages offers the best German beer in Northern Colorado, along with authentic German food, live music, and a best-dressed competition. Put on your best Lederhosen and get ready for a fun afternoon at the Loveland Oktoberfest!

SEPTEMBER 16TH

Rialto Presents - 3 Redneck Tenors

RIALTO THEATER | 7:30 PM

The Rialto Theater is hosting the 3 Redneck Tenors, who are described as “Blue Collar Comedy Tour goes to Carnegie Hall.” The three formally trained members of this ensemble will be taking the stage on September 16. Get your tickets at www.etix.com/ ticket/p/5540689/3-rednecktenors-loveland-rialto-theater

SEPTEMBER 28TH

Rialto Presents: Bella Gaia

RIALTO THEATER | 7:30 PM

The Rialto Theatre presents a live performance unlike any other. This live concert blends music, dance, technology, and NASA satellite imagery to turn the stage planetary. The award winning performance tells a story of human and natural expression of the universe and the connections between civilization and the natural world.

SEPTEMBER 29TH

The ARC of Larimer County – 11th Annual Film Festival

RIALTO THEATER | 6:00 PM

This free event, donations suggested, offers an evening of films to help eliminate stereotypes of individuals who experience intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. Doors open at 6 pm for live music and films start at 7 pm.

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/LovelandandSouth

HOW TO:

Elevate Your Casual Fall Look

Jessi Fowler, a Fort Collins local and influencer, gave us her fashion tips to take your style up a notch! Fowler knows her way around Northern Colorado style and all things elevating your outfit for any occasion. Her easy tips and tricks will give you inspiration and instruction on how to put together a chic and trendy fall outfit for your next outing!

Style can be simple yet elevated and sophisticated with a few added touches. As a mom of five and always on the go, my style is simple yet edgy and effortless. Fall is my favorite season and I’ve come up with a way to go from a day look to a night look easily! Start with a simple tee or graphic tee (always my go-to) and your favorite jeans. Add in a fun sneaker and some simple jewelry. Gold is my favorite for fall!

Going from day to night is so simple. Throw a blazer over your tee, which should be a closet staple, change your sneakers to some cute booties and you’re ready!

This is my everyday go-to look. Simple jeans, tee, and fun sneakers. Adding some edge with your shoes can take your outfit to a whole other level. Adding a blazer to your outfit immediately elevates your outfit and putting on some edgy booties will take you from day to night!

Jessi Fowler is a Fort Collins local and influencer that focuses on style, fashion, and motherhood. Find her on Instagram at  @my_curated_closets.

For 3 days, Colorado’s first Certified Community Wildlife Habitat is going to get even wilder. VIEW THE HAPPENINGS

do new differently

With apologies to the suburbs of the world, Kinston is planning something a little different. We’re a new home community based on some simple yet enduring ideas about place. Like walking beats driving. A town needs a center. Neighborhoods need parks. Front porches are for conversation. Art is for everyone and nature is an important part of life. This is Kinston, let’s get back to the things that matter.

explore New homes from the $400 s kinstoncenterra.com