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My grandmother used to design women's fashion advertisements by hand—long before digital layouts and instant edits. Her work lives in 1960's Speigel and Sears catalogs, where every line was intentional and every detail mattered. I didn’t fully understand it at the time, but looking back now, I realize I was watching a woman shape how others saw the world.

There was something powerful about that—creating imagery that told a story, that captured attention, that made people feel something. It wasn’t just about the clothing. It was about presence.
Years later, I found myself thinking about her as I stood in the desert, surrounded by a group of incredible women brought together for this cover. Different paths, different stories, but the same quiet strength. The same sense of purpose. The same presence.
In that moment, it felt full circle.
What once lived in hand-drawn advertisements has evolved into something else entirely—but the intention remains the same. To see women clearly. To honor their individuality. To capture not just how they look, but who they are.
This issue is a reflection of that. A collective of women who are shaping our community in meaningful ways—each one contributing something unique, yet powerful when brought together.
And for me, a quiet reminder that influence doesn’t always announce itself. Sometimes, it’s passed down. Sometimes, it’s observed—and sometimes, it leads you right back to where you’re meant to be, in her company.
In fond friendship,
ASHLEY HATHAWAY, EDITOR @SONORANFOOTHILLSCITYLIFESTYLE
May 2026
PUBLISHER
Candice Johnson | candice.johnson@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Ashley Hathaway | ashley.hathaway@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Chris Johnson | chris.johnson@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Ashley Hathaway
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
SheaLyn Lane, Spark Brand Creative, Meagan Savoca, The Social Edit Co. By Ashley Hathaway
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Liz Nixon
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler








Art












1: Gold Rush Elite Outlaws Jr. 2 team wins first place at Nashville Jamfest competition. 2: Cast members perform a scene from “Anthem: Life in Abundance.” 3: Candice Johnson joins Krystal Wilkinson at the Rose James Salon grand opening. 4: Dr. Burnham and The Smile Studio team show big smiles at Anthem Days 5: Luxury travel advisor Doris Gilles of High Access Travel connects with partners exploring Scottsdale’s resorts. 6: Members of Anthem Golf & Country Club celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with festive fun. 7: Abigail and Renee Davis, the mother-daughter duo behind The Blind Bear team, attend Anthem Days.









Kimberly Mitchell of Desert Health and Wellness continues to expand her team with the addition of Aristea Wheeler, LE (esthetician). With a shared commitment to thoughtful, results-driven care, Wheeler brings both expertise and a passion for helping clients feel confident in their skin. This addition reflects the practice’s ongoing dedication to providing elevated, personalized services while growing a team aligned in both vision and values.
Scan to read more
Save the date for Gold Rush Elite Season 9 clinics and tryouts this May. Clinics will be held May 18–19, followed by tryouts on May 20–21. Registration opens soon, so be sure to stay tuned. Visit GoldRushEliteAZ.com for full details, schedules, and updates as they become available.
The Smile Studio is hosting a special Invisalign Day on May 5, offering patients an exclusive opportunity to save $1,000 on treatment. This one-day event is perfect for those ready to achieve a confident, straighter smile with a personalized, modern approach to orthodontics. Consultations will be available, along with expert guidance from The Smile Studio team. Appointments are limited, so early booking is encouraged! Scan to read more Scan to read more











In honor of the women whose presence, work, and love define our community.
ARTICLE BY CANDICE JOHNSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE SOCIAL EDIT CO. BY ASHLEY HATHAWAY
Hello Sonoran Foothills Neighbors, I’m so excited to present our May Women’s Issue to the community!
May has always been a very special month for me. My twin sister and I celebrate our birthdays this month, and it’s also the month my daughter was born. As my first child, she holds such a special place in my heart, and each year I’m reminded how grateful I am for the beautiful journey of motherhood that began with her.
May has always felt like a time to celebrate the women in our lives, and as this is my first Women’s Issue, I wanted to shine a spotlight on the incredible women who make the Sonoran Foothills so special.
There are so many hardworking female entrepreneurs in our community—women who are not only building businesses, but also providing exceptional products and services to their neighbors. As you flip through the pages of this Women’s Issue, you’ll be introduced to many of these inspiring women. My hope is that their stories resonate with you and inspire you as much as they have inspired me. With gratitude, Candice








A collective portrait of women shaping the Sonoran Foothills through presence, purpose, and connection.
This Women’s Issue celebrates a collective of leaders shaping our community with intention, resilience, and heart. Each woman featured here brings a unique perspective, proving that influence isn’t defined by title, but by impact, connection, and the commitment to lift others along the way.
ARTICLE BY ASHLEY HATHAWAY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE SOCIAL EDIT CO. BY ASHLEY HATHAWAY



For Michele Blumentritt, influential leadership begins with using every opportunity to give back. A former teacher, her passion for supporting local schools remains deeply personal, now carried through her work with Reliance Heating & Air Conditioning. From sponsoring community events like Anthem Days to surprising educators with classroom support, her impact extends far beyond her business. She is intentional about building something that serves not only her customers, but the community around her. Outside of work, she hosts Intimate Inspirations, a podcast centered on women, family, and faith—an extension of her commitment to connection, conversation, and encouraging others.
Karie Duffey, co-owner of Body Fit Training, doesn’t see herself as influential—she simply shows up as herself. For over 23 years as a nurse, she has cared for people in their most vulnerable moments, helping them feel seen, supported, and whole again. That same compassion carries into her work at the gym, where she takes the time to truly know each individual and what matters most to them. As a mother of five in a blended family, Karie leads with presence, honesty, and heart. For her, it’s never just a job—it’s a genuine connection to people, and that’s what makes her impact so meaningful.
Amanda Frisby, founder of Bella Noelle Aesthetics, believes influence isn’t about titles—it’s about how you show up for others. She has created more than an aesthetics practice; it’s a space where women feel seen, supported, and confident in their own skin. A mother herself, Amanda understands the weight of pouring into everyone else, and is passionate about helping her clients reconnect with themselves. Her journey—marked by advanced education and courageous pivots—reflects her belief that growth often comes from realignment, not perfection. Through motherhood, advocacy, and community, Amanda leads with heart—empowering women to feel confident, capable, and never alone.



Sherrie Esguerra, FNP-C, founder of Skin & Body RX, believes true influence comes from impact—not just presence. Through her work, she helps women feel confident in their own skin while educating them on caring for themselves from the inside out. She has created a space where women feel seen, supported, and empowered—not just in aesthetics, but in life. As a mother, partner, and entrepreneur, Sherrie leads by example, showing that success doesn’t have to come at the expense of what matters most. Grounded in purpose and connection, she is passionate about helping women feel strong, confident, and truly cared for.
Brianna Cuozzo, founder of The Charcuterie Club and a mother-to-be, leads with connection at the heart of everything she does. Known for bringing people together in meaningful ways, she finds joy in creating moments where others feel celebrated. That same spirit carries into her work, where her thoughtfully crafted boards become part of life’s gatherings. Whether meeting people at local markets or sharing in their celebrations, Brianna values the relationships behind each interaction. As she steps into motherhood, her natural ability to nurture and create community continues to shape the impact she leaves.
Doris Gilles, a luxury travel advisor with High Access Travel, believes true influence is found in connection and shared moments. She is known for creating spaces where relationships can grow— whether through thoughtfully curated travel experiences or within her own community. Locally, Doris leads a monthly Mahjong group, welcoming new players and fostering an environment where women connect, support one another, and build lasting friendships. What began as a simple gathering has evolved into a meaningful circle of connection. Through both her work and her everyday life, Doris brings people together in ways that leave a lasting impact.



Christin Wuestenhoeffer and Cindy Flocken-Betcher, sisters in business, have spent nearly two decades building a space rooted in connection, care, and community. At A Wild Hair Salon and Day Spa, they’ve mentored and educated stylists and estheticians not only in their craft, but in professionalism and compassion. Their space is one where clients can relax, be heard, and feel supported through life’s moments—often serving as “unofficial therapists” along the way. Grounded in family, they lead with heart and intention, giving back to their community and uplifting fellow women-owned businesses whenever they can.
Renee Davis and her daughter, Abigail Davis, the duo behind The Blind Bear, believe influence isn’t claimed—it’s built through consistency, trust, and genuine connection. For them, business has never been about transactions, but about relationships. From Bear Lake, Idaho to Anthem and Sedona, each community has shaped their approach: show up, give back, and stay invested in the people around you. By building a trusted network of local businesses, they create value not just for their clients, but for their community as a whole. Rooted in integrity and service, they continue to grow something meaningful—together.
Dr. Alexandra Burnham, D.M.D., M.A., leads with a simple belief: true influence comes from how you make people feel. Known for her warmth and intentional approach, she is passionate about creating experiences where others feel comfortable, cared for, and genuinely valued. That philosophy extends into her work at The Smile Studio, where she has redefined what dental care can feel like. By building a culture rooted in kindness, trust, and connection, she creates lasting impact—whether restoring confidence through a smile or simply brightening someone’s day.
CONTINUED >



Dr. Viva Zima, DNP, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, brings both compassion to the way she cares for others. As a wife and proud mother of two daughters, she is deeply rooted in family, resilience, and growth. Her journey as an immigrant has shaped a strong work ethic and a commitment to continually improving both her life and the lives of those around her. That perspective carries into her work as the owner of Sage Hormone Health, where she helps patients better understand their health. Through care and personalized insight, she empowers others to make informed decisions for their well-being.
Dawn Moncrief, owner of 4D Baby Studio, leads with compassion, connection, and a genuine desire to make others feel cared for. She works with women and families during some of life’s most emotional and defining moments, creating a space where they feel seen, supported, and understood. Whether navigating fertility, pregnancy, or personal health, Dawn approaches each interaction with empathy and intention. As a North Phoenix resident, she is deeply connected to her community—collaborating with local businesses, supporting women-owned ventures, and showing up for families in meaningful ways.
Heather Pranitis, founder and luxury travel designer, is known for bringing clarity and intention to the way people live, work, and experience the world. She has a unique ability to simplify what feels overwhelming—helping others rethink how they spend both their time and their money. Through her work, she guides clients toward smarter decisions, stronger businesses, and more meaningful experiences. Whether creating personalized travel or offering financial insight, Heather leads with connection—opening doors, making introductions, and supporting others in ways that are felt long after. For her, true luxury is living with clarity, confidence, and intention.



Dusty Perez, photographer and owner of Lily Photography, is driven by a desire to help others see themselves as worthy, loved, and fully known. Through her work and her presence, she creates space for people to feel confident, seen, and valued. Her faith is at the center of everything she does, guiding her to reflect the love of Christ in both her photography and her relationships. Passionate about mentoring young women, Dusty encourages them to discover who they are and whose they are, empowering them to step into their next season with confidence, purpose, and a strong sense of identity.
Lindsay Navarro, MSN, FNP-C, and Taylor Grittman, LE, CLT, of Beyond Aesthetics and Wellness, believe true influence comes from impact, not just visibility. As women navigating full, busy lives themselves, they understand what it means to feel pulled in many directions—and that perspective shapes how they care for others. Together, they’ve created a space where clients feel informed, supported, and genuinely cared for. Blending medical expertise with advanced skincare, they focus on education, trust, and personalized care over trends. Rooted in connection and collaboration, their approach goes beyond treatments—helping clients feel confident and more like themselves.
Krystal Wilkinson, owner of Rose James Salon, may not have set out to be influential, but her impact in the community is undeniable. Through years behind the chair, she has built meaningful relationships, helping women reconnect with their confidence in ways that go far beyond appearance. What sets Wilkinson apart is the environment she is creating — one rooted in growth, support, and authenticity. She is passionate about building a space where women feel seen, valued, and empowered. For Wilkinson, leadership also means showing her children what it looks like to take risks, work hard, and lead with integrity and heart.
CONTINUED >


Kimberly Mitchell believes being influential in her community starts with leading with heart. As a family nurse practitioner, she is driven by a deep desire to care for others, creating meaningful connections and helping patients feel seen, heard, and supported. Through her work at Alliance Medical in Anthem and as owner of Desert Health and Wellness, she blends traditional care with functional medicine to guide patients toward lasting wellness. At the center of it all is her family—her husband and 17-year-old son—who inspire her to lead with compassion, integrity, and purpose every day.
Katie Chambers, Manager of Liv+ Union Peak, a 55+ community, believes influence begins with living meaningfully—leading with intention, presence, and love in every interaction. She builds genuine relationships by truly seeing people, listening to their stories, and fostering connections that strengthen the community. Known for uplifting those around her, Chambers shows up as a constant encourager, reminding women of their power even on the days they forget it. Her impact is rooted in giving back, amplifying voices, and creating spaces where people feel supported, valued, and inspired. Guided by her mantra, “Liv with luv,” she leads with heart in all she does.










HOW KRYSTAL WILKINSON OF ROSE JAMES LUXURY COLOR & EXTENSION
SALON IS BUILDING A CULTURE OF COLLABORATION AND GROWTH

For Krystal Wilkinson, founder of Rose James Luxury Color & Extension Salon, the recent opening of her salon was about more than beautiful hair — it was about building something the industry has long been missing.
In a space historically driven by comparison and competition, Wilkinson is part of a new wave of women redefining leadership in the beauty industry. Her vision is rooted in intention — creating
an environment where collaboration, mentorship, and long-term growth take precedence over rivalry.
“For so long the salon world has been built on competition,” Wilkinson says. “But I truly believe the future of this industry is collaboration over competition.”
That belief became the foundation of Rose James. From the moment you walk inside, the space reflects that philosophy. Soft blush-toned walls, warm lighting, and thoughtfully curated details create an atmosphere that feels both elevated and welcoming. Arched mirrors, modern stations with gold accents, and refined product displays give the salon an inviting feel—where luxury and comfort exist side by side.
Instead of creating an environment where stylists feel like they’re competing for clients, Wilkinson designed Rose James to be a collaborative space where artists support one another and grow together.
“I want to work with stylists who are passionate about what they do and who want to collaborate instead of compete. When you put talented, motivated people in a room and encourage them to share ideas and support each other, everyone wins — the stylists and the clients.”
"I TRULY BELIEVE THE FUTURE OF THIS INDUSTRY IS COLLABORATION OVER COMPETITION."


Wilkinson has intentionally structured the salon to meet stylists wherever they are in their careers. Some experienced artists operate as independent renters, while others building their books work within a commission structure.
“There’s no one-size-fits-all path in this industry,” she explains. “My goal is to support each stylist in a way that makes sense for where they are right now.”
Culture is where her leadership comes to life. Wilkinson fosters a space grounded in connection, communication, and shared purpose — something she believes is essential for both professional success and personal confidence.
“We’ll sit down together and talk about what inspires us, where we’re struggling, and what we want to accomplish. When people feel supported and heard, they grow faster and feel more confident in their craft.”
Education is another cornerstone of the salon’s philosophy. At the beginning of each year, the team maps out the training and classes they want to pursue together.
“The beauty industry is constantly evolving,” Wilkinson says. “We’ll look at what we want to learn that year and invest in growing our skills together. Continuing education isn’t optional here — it’s part of the culture.”
For Wilkinson, the bigger picture extends far beyond the salon chair. As a woman building a business on her own terms, she is contributing to a broader shift — one that prioritizes community, mentorship, and sustainability over outdated industry norms.
“There’s a shift happening in the industry,” she says. “More and more, stylists are embracing collaboration over competition—supporting one another, building community, and growing together. That’s the kind of environment I’m passionate about creating at Rose James.”

ARTICLE BY ASHLEY HATHAWAY
BY SHEALYN
perspective on aging with intention, balance, and authenticity

In a space often driven by trends, quick fixes, and unrealistic expectations, Kimberly Mitchell offers something refreshingly different: perspective.
With over 20 years in the medical field—including time in plastic surgery and ER/trauma—Mitchell brings a clinical depth to aesthetics that goes far beyond the surface. As a Family Nurse Practitioner and owner of Desert Health and Wellness, her approach is rooted in one core belief: aging isn’t something to fight—it’s something to navigate with intention.
“Aging gracefully can mean different things to different women,” she explains. “But at its core, it’s about how you move through it. Confidence should evolve, not fade.”
For Mitchell, the conversation shifts from reacting to aging to designing it. She describes this as “aging intentionally”—a more thoughtful, individualized approach that aligns with a woman’s identity, lifestyle, and long-term goals. Rather than chasing trends or overcorrecting, her philosophy centers on doing the right things, at the right time, for each individual.
That mindset is deeply influenced by her background in nursing. Trained to assess the whole patient—not just a single concern— Mitchell approaches aesthetics with a strong emphasis on safety, ethics, and honest communication. It’s not about selling treatments; it’s about building trust.
“I don’t push unnecessary procedures,” she says. “Sometimes the best thing you can do is guide someone away from something that won’t serve them long-term.”
This level of transparency is especially important in an industry filled with misconceptions. From the belief that more treatments equal better results to the fear of looking “overdone,” Mitchell sees a pattern of women feeling pressured to do too much, too quickly.
In reality, she explains, intentional and spaced-out care almost always outperforms aggressive approaches. “We can’t correct years of damage in a single session,” she says. “It takes time, consistency, and a plan tailored to the individual.”
That plan extends beyond injectables and skincare. Mitchell’s work incorporates a more holistic view—factoring in hormones, lifestyle, diet, and overall wellness. The goal isn’t transformation, but alignment.
“I want my clients to look like themselves— just well cared for,” she says. “We’re not erasing age. We’re supporting it.”
At the heart of her practice is a long-term vision. Instead of offering a menu of services, she builds evolving relationships with CONTINUED >

“AGING ISN’T ABOUT DOING EVERYTHING—IT’S ABOUT DOING THE RIGHT THINGS, AT THE RIGHT TIME. WHEN YOU APPROACH IT WITH INTENTION, YOU DON’T LOSE YOURSELF—YOU EVOLVE INTO A MORE CONFIDENT, SUPPORTED VERSION OF WHO YOU ALREADY ARE.”
her clients—adjusting treatments over time, tracking progress, and refining plans as their needs change. It’s a model rooted in consistency, education, and trust.
And perhaps most importantly, it reframes the narrative around aging entirely.
“A lot of women are taught to see every change as something to fix,” she says. “But you don’t have to look younger to look good. You can look like yourself—supported, confident, and at ease in your skin.”
In a world that often tells women to chase youth, Kimberly Mitchell offers a quieter, more powerful alternative:
Choose yourself. Intentionally.







Personalized
Contact us today to start creating a financial strategy tailored to your specific needs.

James Van Pelt, CFP®, Financial Advisor 34406 N 27th Drive, Building 7, Suite 176 Phoenix, AZ 85085
623-869-7600




ARTICLE BY KALI KASORZYK
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
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













OHMFitness.com/HappyValley 25738 N Lake Pleasant Pkwy Peoria, AZ

OHM Fitness - The Shops at Lake Pleasant





Westworld of Scottsdale | 16601 North Pima Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85260 | 9:00 AM
The Maricopa County Home & Flower Show hits WestWorld May 1–3, 2026. Expect a massive 50,000-sq-ft Floral Showcase, a Tiny Home Neighborhood, and the Plant Pavilion for rare finds. Enjoy DIY workshops at the Plant Bar and local bites. Tickets are $10 (kids/military discounts available) with free parking onsite. It’s Arizona’s largest indoor garden and home expo.
Rock Springs Cafe Outdoor Pavilion | 35900 Old Black Canyon Hwy., Black Canyon City, AZ 85324 | 5:30 PM
Enjoy the Bradshaw Mountain Sunset Jazz Concert featuring special guest The Prescott Jazz Ensemble. This classic supper club evening includes fine dining, a sunset cocktail or mocktail toast, and dancing under the stars to the timeless music style of Django Reinhardt. Advanced reservations required. Individual guests $60, tables of 6 or 8 are also available. Call 623-687-4251 for reservations.




Welcome to our ice cream and coffee shop! We offer a wide variety of delicious ice cream flavors and freshly brewed coffee to satisfy your cravings. Come in and enjoy a sweet treat or a warm cup of coffee in our cozy and inviting atmosphere. We can’t wait to serve you! www.goldrushcoffeeandcream.com | 42302 N Vision Way #106 Proudly serving Thrifty Ice cream!



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 intro. Markets available nationwide. Learn more at future.citylifestyle.com Set your schedule. Make an impact. Build a life you’re proud of.

