We pride ourselves in raising hormone and soy free Wagyu beef. Wagyu is a treasure trove of nutrients including protein, iron, B12 trace minerals and much more. It contains a high proportion of omega-3 and omega six which are essential for heart health and can contribute to overall wellness. Due to its rich flavor and tenderness, smaller portions can be incredibly satisfying, allowing diners to enjoy high-quality beef with potentially fewer calories.
Dear Reader,
I hope this letter finds you inspired and ready to embrace the beauty of self-expression.
Style is such an extraordinary part of life — it’s far more than the clothes we wear or the accessories we choose. Style is woven into every detail of our existence, from the way we decorate our homes to the art and music we enjoy, the books we read and even how we interact with the world around us. It’s the unique thread that creates the tapestry of who we are.
What makes style so captivating is its deeply personal nature. It evolves alongside us as we explore new interests, embrace our quirks and express what we value most. It’s a language without words, a powerful tool for connection that can bridge differences and spark shared understanding.
Here in Medina County, we’re fortunate to have endless opportunities to celebrate and explore style. Whether it’s through visiting local boutiques, supporting creative entrepreneurs or simply drawing inspiration from our city’s vibrant culture, there’s so much to ignite your creativity and lift your spirit.
This month, I encourage you to think of style as an authentic expression of yourself. The most beautiful style is one that reflects who you truly are — your passions, your story, your individuality. And the incredible thing is that no one else in the world can replicate that.
So go ahead, celebrate your unique style. Whether you’re exploring new trends, blending classic elements or creating something entirely original, let this issue inspire you to embrace the power of self-expression.
Here’s to being unapologetically and uniquely you!
Until next month,
September 2025
PUBLISHER
Joe Violi | joe.violi@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Emily Shea-Owen | emily.shea@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Martha Doyle | martha.doyle@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Erin Baka, Emily Shea-Owen
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Tru Barre, The Homestead Building Company, Pauline Heiny, Budget Lightscapes, Funky Ink Prints
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford
LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
Tucked away on 220 acres of rolling Texas longhorn country, CF Ranch & Cattle Co. offers more than just a venue — it offers a weekend escape designed to turn wedding dreams into reality. With sweeping scenic vistas and warm, welcoming accommodations, the ranch provides a stunning canvas for couples looking to celebrate in authentic, rustic elegance.
From intimate ceremonies beneath wide-open skies to evenings spent in cozy lodges surrounded by loved ones, CF Ranch crafts wedding weekends that feel both personal and unforgettable. Their dedicated team handles everything from event coordination to fine-tuning the smallest details, ensuring each celebration reflects the couple at
PLAN THE PERFECT WEEKEND WEDDING AT CF RANCH & CATTLE CO.
ARTICLE BY EMILY SHEA-OWEN PHOTOGRAPHY
BY PAULINE HEINY
its heart. Whether you’re envisioning a relaxed country affair or a more refined rural gathering, CF Ranch blends natural beauty with thoughtful service to bring it all to life.
BASIC
• Exclusive venue access on Friday and Saturday
• Onsite wedding coordinator to assist with your special day
• Picturesque ceremony area featuring charming pew seating for up to 160 guests
• Reception space with tables and chairs
• Yard games for added entertainment
• Everything from the basic package, plus lodging at the Guest House (available at $595 per night) or Lodge (available at $475 per night) located on the CF Ranch property
• Everything from the basic package, plus lodging at the Guest House and Lodge with a $50 discount per night on each location.
To learn more and discover pricing, visit email Cynthia at cfranchevents@gmail.com
FUNKY INK PRINTS TURNS IDEAS INTO WEARABLE ART
In the heart of Brunswick, a screen-printing shop is quietly making waves with its soft-touch prints, bold designs and old-school dedication to craft. Funky Ink Prints, founded in 2018 by Brock and Tabitha Birce, is far more than a custom apparel business — it’s a living legacy wrapped in creativity, passion and over two decades of experience.
For Brock, screen printing isn’t just a trade — it’s in his blood. As a third-generation printer, the art form runs deep in his family’s history.
“Ink flows through my veins,” he says, smiling. “I’ve always loved making great art — it just happens to be in the form of clothing.”
That love of tactile and wearable design led Brock to master techniques like discharge printing, plastisol and water-based inks long before Funky Ink was born. His deep knowledge of materials and ink chemistry has helped the company earn a reputation for top-quality prints that don’t just look great, they feel amazing.
But it’s not all technique and tradition. Tabitha, Brock’s wife and business partner, is the creative fire behind the brand. With an eye for design trends and a bold vision for where the company is headed, Tabitha helps steer Funky Ink into new creative territory.
“She’s the one who keeps us looking ahead,” Brock says. “She’s constantly pushing ideas, working with clients on branding, and making sure we’re not just following trends — we’re setting them.”
The couple’s complementary skill sets are key to Funky Ink’s success. Brock’s technical expertise and Tabitha’s creative vision come together in every project, resulting in designs that are not only eye-catching but also tailored to the specific needs of each client.
“We’re not just printing t-shirts,” says Brock. “We’re helping people express themselves and their brands in ways that resonate with their audience.”
A true family business, Funky Ink is also setting the stage for the next generation. Brock and Tabitha’s son, Brock Jr., is already working alongside them in the shop, learning the craft and gaining hands-on experience.
“It’s exciting to see him take an interest in the business,” says Brock Sr. “He’s learning the ropes and has the passion to keep it going. One day, he’ll be the one running the presses and continuing the legacy we’ve built.”
Working with local radio station WMMS for several years also gave Brock invaluable insights into the world of promotions: “It taught me the ins and outs of how promotional products really make an impact,” he explains. “It’s about more than just putting a logo on a product. It’s about creating something people want to keep and use — something that builds a connection between the brand and the customer.” This experience has influenced Funky Ink’s approach to promotional items, ensuring that each piece is not just functional, but memorable.
Whether it’s for a startup brand, a local brewery, a national band or a neighborhood fundraiser, every project that passes through Funky Ink Prints is handled with care, precision and pride. The company offers a full range of screen-printing services, from custom apparel to promotional products and always strives for the highest standards of quality.
Funky Ink Prints is more than a business — it’s a celebration of creativity, craftsmanship and community. And with Brock, Tabitha, and the next generation of the Birce family at the helm, its future looks as bold and bright as the prints rolling off their presses. Learn more at FunkyInkPrints.com
“We’re not just printing t-shirts. We’re helping people express themselves and their brands in ways that resonate with their audience.”
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BUDGET LIGHTSCAPES
BOLD OUTDOOR AUDIO SOLUTIONS MEET ELEGANT DESIGN THANKS TO BUDGET LIGHTSCAPES
Local company Budget Lightscapes of Northeast Ohio is excited to offer you a new way to transform your outdoor space into an entertainment
The system also boasts a patented speaker voice-coil configuration that is easily expandable up to 8.2 without any loss of sound quality.
oasis with the AMP Symphony 4.1 Bluetooth Outdoor Audio System. Designed to deliver rich, immersive sound, AMP Symphony blends premium audio performance with realistic instrument and vocal presence. This state-of-the-art system includes four high-fidelity speakers, a powerful subwoofer and a Bluetooth receiver for seamless wireless streaming. Built for the outdoors, its UV-resistant polymer construction stands up to the elements while maintaining a sleek, low-profile design. The contoured speakers and subwoofer are intentionally designed to be heard, not seen — providing big sound without disrupting your landscape’s aesthetic.
AMP Symphony’s universal mounting options include ground stakes and surface mounts, with pivoting arms that adjust up to 150° for targeted sound and minimal audio spillover.
Whether you’re setting a relaxing ambiance or powering the party, AMP Symphony delivers exceptional clarity and bass through a scalable 2-channel system. And with a full-function remote control, adjusting bass, treble and volume — or skipping tracks — is effortless.
You can even pair AMP Symphony with outdoor lighting solutions from Budget Lightscapes, enhancing any backyard with rich sound, modern convenience and a seamless, professional finish. Plus, it’s backed by a one-year warranty for added peace of mind.
Elevate your outdoor experience with Budget Lightscapes’ high-quality landscape lighting and their new AMP Symphony sound system — a true harmony of performance, durability, and design. Call Budget Lightscapes today at 216.406.1900 to schedule your free audio or lighting design consultation.
The Homestead Building Company Crafts Spaces That Reflect How You Live
ARTICLE BY ERIN BAKA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE HOMESTEAD BUILDING COMPANY
When it comes to building a home that reflects not just how you live, but how you dream , style matters. Located in Wooster, The Homestead Building Company — run by the Raber family — brings that understanding to life with care and craftsmanship.
“Homestead takes a fully customized approach to every build and renovation.”
In 2018, the Rabers took their years of construction experience and turned their shared vision into reality, launching what has since grown into a thriving, family-owned business: “At Homestead, we believe in intentionally weaving functional design into people’s everyday lives,” says Rose Raber. “Our passion lies in transforming visions into reality through thoughtful design and high-quality construction — whether it’s farmhouse, barndominium or a mid-century modern house, our personalized approach is rooted in understanding each client’s lifestyle. Every project starts with truly understanding our client’s vision. From there, we focus on smart planning, because a strong foundation, both literally and in process, is the key to a successful and enjoyable experience.”
Known for their superior artisanship, high-quality materials and deeply personalized design process, Homestead has become a trusted name in both custom home building and whole-home renovations. Their mission goes beyond blueprints — it’s about bringing aesthetic appeal and functionality to every space they create. From modern farmhouses to classic colonial revivals, their approach is rooted in timeless design choices that blend seamlessly with the unique personalities of each homeowner. Whether you’re starting from the ground up or
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than 80% of patients see a
reimagining your existing home, they bring a curated design experience that feels more like a collaboration than a construction project.
Homestead has had the privilege of reimagining some of the most creative and uplifting homes in the region — each one a true reflection of the people who live there. At the core of every project is a simple foundation: the client’s vision, their needs and their dream. Because no two families are alike, no two homes should be either. That’s why Homestead takes a fully customized approach to every build and renovation. Whether starting from a blank slate with a completely new design, or breathing fresh life into an existing home, their team collaborates closely to craft spaces that are both beautiful and deeply functional.
A major step forward in Homestead’s evolution, and a true reflection of their commitment to style, is their brand-new design and selection center located in the heart of Smithville. More than just a showroom, this space is where style meets substance. Clients are able to select their interior and exterior materials at the showroom, which are then professionally designed, handcrafted and installed by skilled Amish craftsmen renowned for their exceptional attention to detail and timeless workmanship.
To experience the heart, style and craftsmanship of a true family-owned business, reach out to Homestead. With husband-and-wife founders at the helm and their daughter-in-law who is their office and executive assistant behind the scenes, everything stays organized and on track throughout the entire process. Choosing Homestead means working with a small business that treats you like family — and builds a home that feels like it too. Learn more at TheHomesteadBuildingCompany.com
Are you looking for a low-impact workout that delivers real results? One that strengthens your muscles, improves your balance and leaves you feeling confident — not exhausted? Barre fitness isn’t your average gym workout — and that’s exactly the point. At Tru Barre, with locations in Medina and Akron, owner Sue Costigan has created a space where movement meets mindfulness, and strength is built one pulse at a time. Rooted in ballet-inspired technique and fused with elements of Pilates and strength training, barre offers a low-impact yet incredibly effective way to build muscle and improve balance. You won’t find clanging weights or loud cardio machines here. Instead, it’s all about small, intentional movements that challenge your body in the best way. It’s especially popular among women in their 40s, 50s and beyond who want to feel strong, stable, and confident — without the risk of injury that often comes with traditional workouts.
Sue’s passion for helping women feel empowered through movement is at the heart of every class at Tru Barre. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned regular, each session is carefully designed to be accessible yet challenging, meeting you exactly where you are. From the moment you step into the studio, you’re met with encouragement, community and the kind of burn that lets you know your body is getting
ARTICLE BY ERIN BAKA
PHOTOGRAPHY BY TRU BARRE
stronger without even pounding the pavement or picking up a heavy barbell.
“It doesn’t have to hurt you to be effective and see results,” says Sue.
After nearly four decades in the group fitness world, Sue knows the wear and tear intense workouts can have on the body — especially as we age. But it wasn’t until she had a shoulder injury about 15 years ago that she truly began to rethink her approach to fitness. That injury sparked a search for something different, something sustainable, smart and still effective. What she discovered in barre was a method that challenges the body through precision and control, without putting stress on the joints.
At the heart of Tru Barre’s approach is Sue Costigan’s signature philosophy: tuck, burn, shake. This simple mantra captures the essence of barre’s effectiveness. First, you “tuck” by engaging the core and maintaining precise, controlled poses that protect your body and maximize muscle activation. Then you “burn” through small, isometric movements that create deep muscle fatigue,
building strength and endurance without bulk. Finally, you “shake”, allowing your muscles to release tension and reset before moving on. This rhythm not only challenges your body but also keeps classes dynamic and approachable, empowering every client to feel the burn and enjoy the process without strain or injury.
At Tru Barre, there’s a class for every fitness level, from beginners just discovering the method to seasoned clients looking to refine and challenge their practice. Most start with Mixed
Barre, a foundational class open to all levels that focuses on technique, form and controlled movement. It’s intentionally paced with regular cues, modifications and encouragement to help every client feel successful, no matter what their starting point.
For those wanting to build a strong foundation, and once newer clients gain confidence and strength, they may try the Express class, a 45-minute turbocharged version that wastes no time targeting every muscle group (offered in Akron only).
Finally, the signature Tru Barre class is known as the ultimate challenge: a fast-paced, high-intensity interval workout designed for experienced clients craving deep muscle engagement and serious results.
What truly sets Tru Barre apart — beyond the intelligent movement and results-driven classes, is the sense of community that fills the studio. From the moment you walk through the door, you’re welcomed with warmth, encouragement and a genuine spirit of support. The atmosphere is uplifting without
being competitive, making it an ideal space for women who may feel intimidated by traditional gyms. Clients often describe it as their “happy place” — a sanctuary where they can focus on themselves, reconnect with their bodies and leave feeling stronger, both physically and mentally. It’s not about keeping up with anyone else; it’s about showing up for yourself.
Whether you’re looking to regain strength, improve balance or simply carve out a little time for yourself, Tru Barre offers more than just a workout, it offers a path to feeling truly empowered in your own skin. With expert guidance from Sue Costigan and her team, thoughtfully designed classes and a welcoming community of women cheering each other on, it’s easy to see why so many have found their stride here. At Tru Barre, fitness isn’t about pushing harder, it’s about moving smarter, standing taller and showing up for yourself, one small movement at a time. Plus, don’t forget to peruse the boutique in either location for fun workout clothes, gripper socks and more! It’s all about style too while you strengthen your core.
For more information and to sign up for a class, visit TruBarre.org or email hello@tuckburnshake.com. The Medina studio is located at 2759 Medina Rd. and the Akron studio is located at 653 Merriman Rd.
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