Issuu

march | april 2018

features 100 Creative Collaboration Friends and designing women Julie Von Weller, Helen Martinez and Ansley Schrimsher gathered at a College Park home, staged by Collage Home, to showcase spring looks that suited their personalities and illustrated the colors and silhouettes for the season. Julie collaborated with several women-owned and managed boutiques and businesses, such as Continuum, Tuni, The Grove, Neiman Marcus, WKND WFYR, Dora Mae Jewelry and Kendall + Kendall Hair Color Studio, to style this shoot, demonstrating the power and passion of just some of this community’s women creatives.

111

2018 Orlando Women’s Conference Preview and Program The 8th Annual Orlando Women’s Conference will be held Wednesday, April 4, at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort at Universal Orlando. This oneday program for women features more than 30 speakers in 14 sessions; a marketplace with health and wellness info, boutique-style shopping and spa experiences; a keynote luncheon and wrap-up reception. Here’s your preview to the event with details about the sessions and schedule of activities.

CHRISTI ASHBY

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CHRISTI ASHBY

100 on the cover: Helen Martinez, Julie Von Weller and Ansley Schrimsher photographed at a College Park home by Christi Ashby. Story on page 100.

march | april 2018

columns 26

MACBETH STUDIO

10 THE LIST

People, places and things: Local friends design a line of clutches; Shoes and bags fresh for spring; Women to Watch: As vice president of corporate branding and communications at Orange Lake Resorts, Stacey Sutherland serves her community through professional and personal endeavors; Enjoy shopping, sipping and bidding at Wine, Women & Shoes; Paws for Peace supports animal survivors; Seniors Firsts’ High Tea & Hats fundraiser puts on the glitz at The Ritz-Carlton; For 20 years Freedom Ride has healed through horse rides; MakeA-Wish Central and Northern Florida’s signature fundraiser aims to raise $1 million in one night; Kendra Scott sponsors a very special charity.

44 BEAUTY, BODY & SPIRIT

Stylish sunglasses that also protect eyes from sun damage; Dr. Konrad Filutowski explains the basics of LASIK; Dr. Steven McCarus discusses different causes of pelvic pain; Dr. Deborah Harding shares some healthy changes you can make this spring.

56 TASTES & EXPERIENCES

Enjoy beautifully prepared vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free dishes at The Sanctum Café; Experience a poolside oasis, bountiful dining options and plenty of people-watching at Orlando World Center Marriott; Quantum Leap Winery continues its mission of sustainability while introducing new offerings and experiences.

64 HOME & DESIGN

A preview of The New American Remodel 2018, built by Farina & Sons, Inc.; Karen LeBlanc shares eight emerging trends influencing kitchen design from the 2018 National Kitchen and Bath Show.

72 AGENDA

Community and charity events: Orange Appeal hosted a reception to honor its Woman of the Decade and Women of the Year; Victory Cup Initiative awards nonprofits; Park Avenue Plastic Surgery & Spa hosts a happy hour; Nemours Children's Hospital celebrates its 5th birthday; Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra patrons and musicians gathered for a special reception; Central Florida Women's League Power of the Purse luncheon; and many more.

128 GIVING BACK

A Gift For Teaching’s free store and innovative programs have been providing Central Florida teachers with much-needed school supplies for 20 years. They will commemorate this anniversary at their upcoming Back-to-School Blast! fundraiser on April 13.

Orange Appeal makes a great gift any time! Subscribe at orangeappeal.com. Get all the event info by signing up for the e-newsletter or visiting our interactive website. For changes of address, please e-mail subscriptions@orangeappeal.com.

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welcome

Unconditional Love

few weeks ago, I did something that caught the eye of quite a few people downtown. In my dress, jacket and heels I led my big, furry Stoli along Orange Avenue. She had never been in a city setting before and I was not sure exactly what to expect. I held the leash tight and had some plastic bags handy for any emergency. She sniffed and marked — in a dirt patch,

not on the sidewalk — and trotted a few blocks to Macbeth Studio where she (we) would be posing as ambassadors for Harbor House’s Paws for Peace Walk. As we entered the building she tugged on the leash a bit and did a few hops — she is quite a leaper. When we stepped into the mirrored elevator, she was overcome with excitement of seeing multiple images of herself. Inside the studio she was a little skittish and only stayed still for seconds at a time. But she loved everyone, giving nuzzles and wags. I admit I am not the best mother to her, often taking her for granted and complaining about the endless fur flurries. But she always loves me — no matter what. I think it’s because we rescued her, and she is forever grateful. Almost 10 years ago we got a call from friends that a dog had been roaming their golf course for a few days. Neighbors were keeping her one night at a time, but no one was able to adopt her. We went to see her and immediately fell in love with her. She was so sweet! We brought her home and had no idea what to expect. But it turned out she was perfectly house-trained and just had some anxiety issues. We will never know the circumstances of her former home. Assuming she was a husky and therefore had some Russian blood (we totally made up a story), we named her Stoli. Our vet estimated she was about a year old — she’s about 10 now. Every so often we would research huskies because Stoli didn’t quite fit the image. It turns out she is probably a mix of malamute and German shepherd, known as an Alaskan Shepherd. Not that any of this really matters, because she truly has only one negative factor — fur, and a ton of it. Let’s just say any unexpected guest will surely find the vacuum in the middle of the living room. She loves other dogs — pretty much all of them. And definitively does not like cats — we think she’s actually afraid of them. I cannot imagine life without her. So, I can’t imagine abuse victims who must consider their precious pets when leaving a dangerous situation. That’s why I am more than happy to support Harbor House’s Paws for Peace Walk, that supports its on-site kennel, which opened in 2012 to meet this critical need. For more information, please read more on page 26. On another note, March is Women’s History Month so please take time to celebrate all achievements of women, locally and globally. – Photo courtesy of Macbeth Studio Follow us on

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and

@OrangeAppeal.

EDITOR & PUBLISHER

Christi Ashby christi@orangeappeal.com ASSISTANT PUBLISHER

Kate Slentz kate@orangeappeal.com MARKETING ASSOCIATE

Wendy Tramell wendy@orangeappeal.com CIRCULATION CONSULTANT

Mollie Oâ€™Shea BUSINESS MANAGER

Robert Ashby CONTRIBUTORS

Jaqueta Abbey Konrad Filutowski, MD Deborah Harding, MD Victor Harding, MD Karen LeBlanc Steven McCarus, MD, FACOG PRODUCTION DIRECTOR

Rita Tyrrell FOR ADVERTISING:

advertising@orangeappeal.com FOR SUBSCRIPTIONS:

subscriptions@orangeappeal.com

orangeappeal.com Copyright 2018. No materials may be reproduced without permission. Please do not send unsolicited articles or photographs. Publisher not responsible for individual opinions contained herein. Orange Appeal (Permit #201) is published bi-monthly by Appeal Media & Events Group, 1111 Charming St., Maitland, FL 32751. Printed in USA. Standard postage paid at Harrisburg, PA and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Orange Appeal, 1111 Charming St., Maitland, FL 32751 6

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connect! MAIL

Make sure you receive your issues of Orange Appeal right in your mailbox. If you haven’t signed up in the past six months, please visit orangeappeal.com/subscribe and click on the special offer. Please send change of address info to subscriptions@orangeappeal.com. Interior Appeal will be sent to you three times a year with your subscription!

Sign up at orangeappeal.com for the Orange Appeal e-newsletter, delivered to your inbox at least twice monthly. Keep up with community and charity events! For advertising info, email: advertising@orangeappeal.com To submit events, email: events@orangeappeal.com

EVENTS Orlando

The Orlando Women’s Conference, held each spring, CONFERENCE is one day for empowerment and inspiration. For details visit orlandowomensconference.com. For sponsorship information email kate@orangeappeal.com.

WOMEN’S

Monthly Ladies Luncheons with special guest speakers are held on the last Tuesday of the month from January through October. Space is limited and reservations/prepayment is required. For more information visit the Orange Appeal Facebook page.

SOCIAL MEDIA

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thelist attitude adjustments Started by a pair of local fashion-loving friends â€” Helen Martinez and Lauren Morgan â€” Weekend Wayfarer (WKND WYFR) offers a line of quality, handmade handbags and clutches in a variety of textiles, designed by the co-owners themselves. Shown here (from the top) are the Golden Girl, Whoa Nelly!, Purple Haze, Ram Ram, and Harbour Island clutches. Prices range from $98 - $118, and they are available at weekend-wayfarer.com. 10

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springâ€™s flings

A little flirty and lots of fun, these seasonal shoes will put a pep in your step as you stroll the streets or take in a tea or two. From fantasy florals and pops of color to cool metallic blends, this springâ€™s designs are trĂ¨s chic.

Rene Caovilla flower self-tie sandals, $850; Sophia Webster Lilico nude floral leather sandals, $595; Gucci Opehlia embroidered gold metallic sandals, $940; all from Neiman Marcus, The Mall at Millenia.

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springâ€™s flings

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Valentino Garavani Lovestuds caged metallic sandals, $1,295; Gucci Princetown brocade horsebit mules, $790; Jimmy Choo Miami leather/satin sneaker, $550; all from Neiman Marcus, The Mall at Millenia.

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springâ€™s flings

Marc Jacobs Snapshot metallic leather camera bags in hibiscus, $295, and platinum, $295, Neiman Marcus, The Mall at Millenia.

Avec Les Filles Joia suede sandals, $158, Tuni Winter Park; Yves Saint Laurent Tribute ombrĂŠ platform sandals, $995, and Jimmy Choo Lancer patent pumps, $795, Neiman Marcus, The Mall at Millenia.

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WOMEN TO WATCH

Stacey Sutherland: Refreshing, Real, Rooted by Kate Slentz

Stacey Sutherland never imagined she’d end up working 10 miles from where she grew up, but as vice president of corporate branding and communications at Orange Lake Resorts (Holiday Inn Club Vacations), she is making an impact on the community she loves. She does this through corporate and charitable giving, and even spearheading a new golf tournament to benefit Give Kids The World Village, an 84-acre, nonprofit resort in Kissimmee that provides weeklong, cost-free vacations to children with life-threatening illnesses and their families.

SHE’S PROUD TO SAY SHE IS FROM KISSIMMEE. “My

run the company today, made a pledge in

wanted to get to $250,000, but I didn’t even

2012 to give $500,000 to help the Give

know what I was doing,” she laughs. How-

time there was wonderful. Back then, it

Kids The World Village Town Hall be built.

ever, she was blown away by the support of

was such a small town and everyone was

“Each year we’ve donated $100,000

her community and her company through-

connected. My awareness of charity and

toward that pledge — and we’re on the final

out the process. “Orange Lake Resorts

giving back started in high school because

year. During this period, I spent more time

cares dearly about Give Kids The World,”

we did a lot of different projects,” she recalls.

with all the folks over there [Give Kids

she adds. “It’s part of their heart and soul.”

After graduating college, she moved to

The World]. So when they asked me to join

Giving back is a major philosophy of

New York City where she admits she only

the board, I made it my mission to try to be

Orange Lake Resorts, and Stacey has led

lasted five months. “When I came back, I

the No. 1 board member,” Stacey says.

its corporate social responsibility effort

got introduced to Art Zimand, who was

She wanted to create a new market for

for three years. “Previously, the company

standing in the DMV line with me. We

Give Kids The World, so she decided to

really didn’t have a solid strategy for giv-

struck up a conversation and from that, I

organize a high-end, celebrity golf tourna-

ing. But as we’ve grown, we needed more

started working at Vistana Resort in its

ment. She explains she could have easily

structure,” she explains.

communications department. I was there

hosted it at one of their Orange Lake Resort

Stacey has since implemented key ini-

for about eight years and did sort of an

golf courses without any course fees, but

tiatives and programs for employees to

internship with him. He took me under

chose The Golden Bear Club at Keene’s

participate. This includes a payroll deduc-

his wing in sales and marketing, and I got

Pointe, where she lives. It is very connected

tion program, paid volunteer time off

to learn it inside and out. Art was a big

and provides a different feel to

supporter of Give Kids The World, so

attract a new audience. Plus,

that’s when I got involved, back in 1988,”

each hole featured a different

Stacey explains.

theme with fun activities or a food tent sponsored by local

the head of the corporate communications

vendors like The Palm Restau-

and brand services department at Orange

rant and Miller’s Ale House.

Lake Resorts, where her connection to

Stacey invested a lot of her

Give Kids The World deepened with vol-

own time and money, even host-

unteer efforts and her husband, John,

ing the pairings party at her

starting sales and marketing collections

home, where they were able to

during tours. Orange Lake Resorts’ found-

secure 32 celebrities for the

er Kemmons Wilson had a history with

tournament. In its first year, the

the founder of Give Kids The World, Henri

tournament raised $236,000 for

Landwirth. Kemmons’ five children, who

Give Kids The World. “I really

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COURTESY HOLIDAY INN VACATION CLUBS

Fast forward to 2004 when she became

Stacey presenting the Hope In One Celebrity Golf Classic check to Give Kids The World Village President and CEO Pamela Landwirth.

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WOMEN TO WATCH

(each employee is given 16 hours paid time off to volunteer), and a new disaster relief program to assist employees affected by natural disasters. “We’ve partnered with an organization to manage our disaster relief for employees. We started very simply by sending an email out to the entire company asking for donations. The company started the fund with $50,000, and employees are adding to that. It’s pretty incredible to see how people care for each other,” she says. The company has also identified six key charities to provide its ongoing corporate support: Special Olympics, Easterseals, Clean the World, Second Harvest Food Bank, Christel House and Give Kids The World. “We started focusing on the core charities we have and why we have them. We care about children and families, and have a natural connection with them. Our company delivers vacations for children and families throughout a network of 26 resorts across the United States,” Stacey adds. At the conclusion of tours at its resorts, sales and marketing associates ask for donations for Give Kids The World. In 2017, the program raised more than 200,000. “Of the more than 7,500 fami-

lies served at Give Kids The World in 2017, I am proud to say that we helped serve almost 100 of them with the money from the golf tournament and tour program,” she says. “At Give Kids The World, families get to forget for a moment the many hardships they have handling the needs of these children. The experience there is just magical. I feel good that we’ve been able to contribute to that.” The second annual Give Kids The World Hope in One Celebrity Golf Classic will be held on Monday, April 30, at The Golden Bear Club, a championship Jack Nicklaus Signature Course at Keene’s Pointe in Windermere. For more information, visit hopeinonegolf.org.

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Committee members showcasing an auction item

Wine,Women Shoes A FUN AFTERNOON FOR FIGHTING HUNGER

What do shoes, shopping and wine tasting have to do with hunger? The 8th Annual Wine, Women & Shoes fundraiser, on Saturday, April

Guests enjoying the afternoon.

28, at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande

on silver platters; Orlando’s most premiere

Lakes, will benefit Second Harvest Food

boutiques set up pop-up shops where 20%

Bank of Central Florida. Over the years, the

of proceeds from sales go to help feed our

event has raised more than 1 million for

neighbors in need; “The Key to your Closet”

the organization that collects, stores and

raffle gives guests a chance to win an

distributes food to more than 500 partner

entire closet filled with designer hand-

agencies in six Central Florida counties.

bags, accessories, clothing, household

Violinist Michelle Jones

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The whole afternoon is dedicated to

goodies and more; and for a $20 donation,

raising critical funds for Second Harvest

attendees have the to opportunity to pull a

in a fashionable, fun way. Volunteer “Sole

bottle of wine, valued up to $200, from the

Men” dish up must-have shoes for auction

Wine Pull.

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Committee member Diane Heiken with sponsor Winnie Palmer Hospital’s Kathy Swanson

On top of all that, there is also a fashion show, shoe contest and wine tastings from seven vintners out of Sonoma and Napa Valley. WESH2 News Anchors Jason Guy and Michelle Imperato will emcee the event. The event is generously presented by Orlando Health — Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies and will be held from 2-6pm at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes. General admission tickets are $125 per person, VIP tickets are $200 per person, and corporate tables of 10 are $2,250 and include priority seating. For more information or to purchase your tickets, visit winewomenandshoes.com/orlando.

Stylish shoes

Designer Diana Simaan with her husband Mark Kessler 24

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Paws for Peace Supports Animal Survivors

Photos courtesy of Macbeth Studio

Most are familiar with the work of Harbor House of Central Florida, a shelter for abuse victims. But many never consider

Ted Maines and Donatella

the fate of beloved family pets during a domestic crisis. Harbor House leaders recognized that victims often stayed in dangerous situations rather than abandoning their pets. So with community and corporate supporters, the Paws for Peace Kennel opened its doors in 2012 to accommodate the precious animals. Harbor House is one of the few domestic violence organizations to have an on-site kennel and the Paws for Peace Walk raises the necessary funds to keep the kennel in operation; and in turn, keeping pets and their families safe. One hundred percent of the proceeds will go to fund veterinary and kennel services for survivors’ pets staying in the short-term emergency housing at Harbor House. The 8th Annual Paws for Peace Walk to support animal survivors of domestic abuse, will be held on Saturday, April 21, at Blue Jacket Park in Baldwin Park. It not only embraces the official walk, but also pet vendors offering unique animal gifts and services; a pet agility course; a contest for the largest and smallest dog participating in the walk; and a bounce house and face painting for children. Ted Maines, philanthropist and owner of Ted Maines Interiors, and his miniature greyhound, Donatella, are honorary co-chairs of the event. Past years’ honorary co-chairs include City of Orlando Commissioner Patty Sheehan and her brown schnauzer-mix, Sienna; along with George Diaz, Orlando Sentinel sports columnist, and his boxer, Addie, who are anticipated to be on-hand with their teams. Other supporters agreed to be photographed with their furry friends to raise additional awareness for the walk and ongoing efforts. It only takes a $20 donation to participate and all registrants receive a free t-shirt and bandana for a pet. Children 12 and under walk for free. To register, visit harborhousefl. com or contact Tekoa Pouerie at tpouerie@harborhousefl.com.

ABOUT THE PAWS FOR PEACE KENNEL AT HARBOR HOUSE OF CENTRAL FLORIDA Harbor House opened the 1,500- square-foot kennel in December 2012. It serves as one of seven on-site, free-standing domestic abuse kennels in the state of Florida and is one of the largest in the country. Since it opened, the kennel has served as a safe haven for more than 200 dogs, cats, birds, turtles, guinea pigs and more. It features an examination room, grooming area, 10 kennels for dogs and 10 for cats, as well as spaces for other pets, such as ferrets, birds, hamsters and other “pocket pets.”

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“

Many victims of domestic violence will not leave their abusers because they can’t bring their beloved pets with them. Abusers frequently injure animals that are left behind. By having a shelter for pets and people, Harbor House is providing a critical continuum of care. I am proud to support this important effort.

”

– Commissioner Patty Sheehan, District 4, City of Orlando

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“

As a Harbor House board member and lifelong animal lover, I think offering the opportunity for domestic violence survivors and pets to heal together is important. Pet-owning survivors entering Harbor House often share their batterer has injured, maimed, killed or threatened the family pets for revenge or to control them. Pets bring such joy and unconditional love into our lives, so what better way to contribute to the betterment of domestic abuse victims than to offer an environment where both can come together. – Angela Buchanan, region bank president, South Central Florida, senior vice president, Wells Fargo

“

Pets are often the first victims of abuse in a home with domestic violence. Many survivors choose to stay in the home because they know if they leave, the abuser will kill their pet. More than five years ago, Harbor House removed that barrier to leave for a survivor by providing an on-site kennel at our temporary emergency shelter. By providing a safe place for family pets, the kennel program has saved countless lives of cats, dogs and survivors.

”

– Michelle Sperzel, Harbor House CEO

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”

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â€œ

When I thought of the possibility a family would be forced to leave their pet behind while leaving an abusive household, I shuddered. That pet would have no chance. When I heard about Harbor House's shelters on-campus, I jumped at the chance to get involved and help keep them up and running, and full of love and support.

â€?

â€“ Erik Sandoval, reporter, NEWS 6/WKMG

ABOUT HARBOR HOUSE OF CENTRAL FLORIDA Harbor House is Orange County's only state-certified domestic violence organization. It provides safe shelter, a 24-hour crisis hotline, counseling, legal advocacy and justice for thousands of domestic violence survivors and their children each year. Harbor House works to prevent and eliminate domestic abuse in Central Florida by providing critical lifesaving services to survivors, implementing and advancing best practices, and educating and engaging the community in a united front. For more information, please visit harborhousefl.com. Pictured on contents page 2: Suzanne Pfordresher 30

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HIGH TEA & HATS: PUTTIN’ ON THE GLITZ AT THE RITZ

Committee members, clockwise, from left: Shirley Stamper, Katherine Brown, Marsha Lorenz, Kari Reeves

Committee members, clockwise, from left: Michelle Lowe, Wendy Jackson, Kim Blaylock, Kira Sandmeyer

ne of the most beloved

event I thought would be fun to be a part

my grandparents and feel the elderly strug-

rites of spring is back at a

of. I came across Seniors First High Tea &

gle is something we all need to be aware

new site to deliver all the

Hats and immediately knew I wanted to

of. It is easy to forget about them because

pageantry

be involved. Not only is the High Tea event

we assume they should be ‘independent’

worthy

Royal Ascot. It’s the

one of the most fun charity events I have

since they are adults, but so often they

guests of Seniors First High Tea & Hats

ever been to, it also supports a local charity

cannot drive, need food or companionship,

who provide the glamor, drama, and even

that I feel is often overlooked. It is easy for

or need to see a friendly face from time to

humor for the afternoon with their fasci-

us to get wrapped up in supporting high-

time as many do not have family close by.

nating fascinators, height-defying toppers,

profile charities, but too often our seniors

I love how Seniors First works to keep

and prim and proper headwear. The 11th

are forgotten,” says Chair Kira Sandmeyer.

seniors independent for as long as possible

annual event will be held from 1:30 – 5pm

Kira admits her initial involvement

by providing so many different important

on Sunday, April 8, at The Ritz-Carlton

was an excuse to get dressed up, bid on

Orlando, Grande Lakes. And this year’s

fabulous silent auction items and get cre-

The serious cause is supported with

committee promises a lovely tea party

ative with her hat, “but over the years this

some lighter activities during the tea.

with all the flourishes.

event and organization has come to mean

Guests can strut their stuff on the catwalk

so much more to me. I was very close with

in a wildly popular hat parade and contest.

“One day I was searching for a charity 32

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services, including Meals on Wheels.”

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Guests enjoying last year’s event

Competition is fierce in the various categories including: Most Fascinating Fascinator, Prim and Proper, Most Creative, Mr. Tea, Best Tea Set (group award) and Best of Show. The lively tea luncheon features delectable scones and jam, fresh fruit and assorted cheeses, finger sandwiches, petite desserts and an assortment of teas. High Tea & Hats guests can also bid on excellent items in the silent auction and take their chance on winning grand raffle prizes such as a 7-day luxury cruise to one of four destinations, a weekend getaway with airfare, or the abundant Wall of Wine. “The High Tea & Hats event is always a blast! We are so excited to be hosting the event at The Ritz-Carlton this year and are also introducing a new concept where guests can purchase a VIP table that they can decorate an hour before the event. These VIP tables will include three bottles of champagne and the best decorated/ themed table will win 10 raffle tickets for the chance to win one of the grand prizes. I can’t wait to see what kind of crazy decorations our wonderful guests come up with,” Kira shares. For more information on sponsorships or to purchase tickets, visit highteaandhats.com or contact Katherine Brown at 407-615-8979 or kbrown@seniorsfirstinc.org. 34

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Freedom Ride:

Healing Horse Power by Christi Ashby

Gail Mears has brought Jake to Freedom Ride to assist with improving his motor skills. “Freedom Ride has been such a blessing for our family. Since Jake began hippotherapy here 18 months ago, we have seen dramatic gains in both his motor planning and motor skill abilities. It has also increased his muscle tone, which has meant less fatigue and more opportunities to keep up in the classroom and while at play,” she says. As Jake was gently led around, he was surrounded by four volunteers who made sure the ride — even sitting backward at one point — was safe. As the first Premier Accredited PATH facility in Central Florida, Freedom Ride provides therapeutic riding to adults and children 4 years and older with Spina Bifida, developmental disabilities, autism, Down syndrome, muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy, learning disabilities, brain injury, speechlanguage disorders, among others. The hippotherapy aids neuromuscular development as the rider’s body makes adjustments to the gait, tempo and cadence of the horse. Freedom Ride also offers a mental health program known as Equine Facilitated Learning. As Gail dutifully watched her son go around and around, she was beaming at the progress he has made since starting therapy. “Best of all is the new confidence Jake has. I am a steadfast believer in Freedom Ride and [their motto] ‘horse power for the spirit,’” she adds. The program began with two riders, a borrowed horse and the support of a handful of

For 20 years Freedom Ride has

dedicated volunteers, renting space at a local barn. In 2001, the organization was awarded

been serving those with disabilities

cated to its new home in February 2003. Today, Freedom Ride reaches out to more than

through therapeutic horse riding in a beautiful, peaceful setting. The program is lauded for its positive impact on participants who are primarily children. We recently visited the facility,

a lease on 10 acres of City of Orlando owned property adjacent to Trotters Park and relo150 individuals annually, making a dramatic impact on their lives with 11 horses and two miniature horses. “There are so many physical, mental and spiritual benefits out here with these animals. It is so non-clinical and very effective. Participants don’t even realize they are getting strength, better posture, balance and confidence because they are having fun,” says Executive Director Marianne Gray. She started as a volunteer in 2008 and has been executive director for six years. “We need volunteers all the time. We have a little more than 100 a week and still need more. They just need to be age 14 and up. They help with the horse care, working the

located just off of Lee Road in

classes, mucking stalls — the whole gamut,” she explains.

Orlando, to witness the gentle

their ability to pay. The organization does not receive

rides and were introduced to

There is a fee schedule for participants that considers any government funding, so donations are always needed as well. Freedom Ride’s seventh annual fundraising

a very grateful mother and

event, Jeans & Jewels, will be held on Thursday, April 5,

her smiling son.

are $75 and more information is available at freedom-

from 6-9:30pm at the Country Club of Orlando. Tickets ride.com. Jake and Gail Mears

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WISHMAKER’S BALL: One Million in One Night

The 24th Annual Hamlin and Associates

“It has been my honor to serve as the

girl’s wish to meet Dolly Parton. Since

Wishmaker’s Ball is Make-A-Wish Central

gala committee chair for the Hamlin and

then, the local chapter has granted more

and Northern Florida’s signature gala and

Associates Wishmaker’s Ball for the last

than 5,500 wishes to children with life-

largest fundraiser. With a goal to raise

two years,” says Jessica Kendrick, Kend-

threatening illnesses. The Wishmaker’s

1,035,000 to grant 130 wishes, this year’s

rick Law Group. “The opportunity to raise

Ball, presented by Fields BMW, will share

committee is pulling out all the stops to

funds and make an impact on these Cen-

the stories of some of the wish children

ensure a successful event, taking place

tral Florida children’s lives has been hum-

whose lives have been touched by the pow-

Saturday, April 21, at the Waldorf Astoria

bling, moving and life changing. This is

er of a wish. All money raised that eve-

Orlando.

the reason Make-A-Wish of Central and

ning stays locally to grant the wishes of children.

With more than 1,200 attendees, the

Northern Florida receives my time. Every

elegant evening includes a three-course

year my friends and I come together to

Individual tickets are $400 and tables of

dinner, an exclusive VIP table drawing, a

refocus on what the best ways to engage

10 are $4,000, with a raffle drawing for a

silent auction including more than 200

our honored guests will be at an event of

chance to win an exclusive VIP table that

unique and fun items, a live auction fea-

this magnitude, and really the children

includes premium seating, upgraded wine

turing exclusive getaways, special appear-

are power enough for the community to

and dessert, personal butler service, and

ances by “wish” children, and a separate

come together and raise more than a mil-

exclusive gifts and prizes valued at more

after-party, presented by Acme Glass,

lion dollars in one night.”

than $500 a person. For more information,

immediately following the event with drinks, dancing and entertainment.

Make-A-Wish Central and Northern

visit wishmakersball.com.

Florida began in 1994 with a 13-year-old

Right to left: Jessica Kendrick (chair); Stephanie Addison (auction co-chair); Krista Zagales; Jay Chaudhari; Krystle DeGraide; Meaghan Kula; Kelsey Weinberg; Anne McMonagle; Brittney Gindin; Summer Simmons; Andrea Ripley; and Annette Papizzo-Petrie Committee members not photographed: Nicole Park (sponsorship chair); Missy Riegel (design and décor chair); Nikki Basso (afterparty chair); Shelly Draves (auction co-chair); Sabine Jeunette (volunteer chair); Liv Tiblier; Mary Mead; Jacqueline Roberts; Keith Drosehn; Sarah Geltz; Jill Healey; Ashlei Stevens; Lawrence Lyman; Bryan Whitehurst; Michelle Kutschinski; Dan Ward; Stacy Newman; Jennifer Calabrese; Natalia Boschen; Krystle DeGraide; Sarah Baldwin

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thelist Kendra welcoming Inheritance of Hope families

Kendra Scott’s Philanthropic Mission

A mother of three, diagnosed with terminal breast cancer, receives earrings from Kendra Scott

endra Scott is a leading

a retreat to Walt Disney World for an

ley Day.” Kendra Scott dedicates the day to

fashion accessories brand

unforgettable weekend. The Legacy Retreat,

continuing the mission of her dear friend

driven by the personal

Inheritance of Hope’s signature offering,

Holley Rothell Kitchen, and raising aware-

experiences, travels and

is an all-expenses-paid trip where families

ness and support for those with metastatic

sense of community of its

can create lifelong memories while receiv-

breast cancer. Inheritance of Hope is an

CEO and designer Kendra Scott. Sold at

ing the tools to navigate the challenges of a

organization that was personally dear to

premiere retailers including Neiman

parent’s terminal illness.

Holley and in the last years of her life, she

Marcus, Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s and

The $50,000 funding for the Legacy

more than 600 specialty boutiques world-

Retreat was donated by Kendra Scott in

wide, the brand recently opened a name-

honor of the brand’s second annual “Hol-

and her family participated in a Legacy Retreat to Orlando. “Holley was a caring, inspiring person

sake store at The Mall at Millenia. It is filled with iconic designs as well as a customizable Color Bar where customers can create their own pieces. But a sweet side to the business is based on its founding philosophy of “Family, Fashion, Philanthropy.” In recent months, the store has participated in shopping events that give back to local charities and Kendra came to Orlando in January to offer a very special experience for women with terminal metastatic breast cancer and their families. Kendra Scott, in partnership with Inheritance of Hope, sponsored 10 families facing a terminal cancer diagnosis on 42

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Kendra with Inheritance of Hope staff and volunteers

who always put her family first, even

and Deric Milligan following several years

passion remains as Inheritance of Hope

when she was diagnosed with metastatic

of coping with Kristen’s terminal liver

continues to provide life-changing experi-

breast cancer. I am honored to carry on

cancer diagnosis while raising three young

ences while helping families navigate the

her legacy,” Kendra says. “My hope for this

children. Sadly, Kristen lost her coura-

challenges of terminal illness. For more

Legacy Retreat is to give these families an

geous battle with cancer in 2012, but her

information, visit inheritanceofhope.org.

experience that will bring happiness and a sense of normalcy to their lives, while creating cherished memories. It means so

A family creating lifelong memories at Disney

much to me to be a part of this very special weekend.” Over the course of the four-day retreat, the families from around the country enjoyed trips to Disney’s Magic Kingdom, Universal Studios and SeaWorld, as well as numerous activities tailored to the families’ challenging situation, including sessions with licensed counselors, children’s group activities, and even a parents’ date night on the town. Inheritance of Hope inspires hope in young families facing the loss of a parent. The organization was founded by Kristen

march | april 2018

beautybody&spirit sunshine saviors Although they are stylish accessories, shades also shield eyes from damaging UVA/UVB rays. You will be easily convinced to don any of these cool sunnies from Eola Eyes. (top to bottom) Alain Mikli/Oliver Peoples Paon, $380; Blake Kuwahara Maybeck, $659; Blake Kuwahara Gropius, $669; Oliver Peoples Docette, $469; and Alain Mikli/Oliver Peoples Buff/Brushed Gold + Pink Wash, $380.

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beautybody&spirit

Focus on Eyes: The Basics of LASIK by Konrad Filutowski, MD, medical director,

Filutowski Cataract & LASIK Institute; Diplomate American Board of Ophthalmology

LASIK, or laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis, is a vision correction

important to note that perfect vision fol-

thalmologist know if you are a candidate

lowing LASIK cannot be guaranteed,

for LASIK. From there, your goals will be

surgery designed to help individuals who

although 20/20 vision or better is achieved

solidified and agreed upon. The LASIK

use corrective eyewear decrease or elimi-

with many. It is essential to work with

procedure itself generally takes less than 5

nate their dependency on glasses and con-

your ophthalmologist in order to ensure

minutes per eye. First, a femtosecond laser

tact lenses. Many people who wear con-

their goals following your surgery align

is used to prepare your cornea by making

tacts or glasses have a refractive error. The

with your expectations.

a thin flap of corneal tissue. Your ophthal-

most common types of refractive errors are

myopia

Every practice has their own preopera-

mologist will then use a second laser, an excimer laser, to reshape your cor-

(nearsightedness), and

nea and correct the refractive error.

astigmatism. Refractive errors are

The flap is carefully laid back

caused by a cornea that is either

down, and the procedure is done.

hyperopia

(farsightedness)

too long, too short or not spherical

Some patients notice improved

to focus the light onto a place on

vision the same day, while others

the back of your eye called the reti-

notice gradual improvement over a

na. During LASIK, a laser is used

few days following the procedure. It

to reshape the cornea so it can

can take up to six months for your

focus light precisely onto the reti-

vision to stabilize completely. Following vision correction sur-

na, which can correct all three

gery, patients will be able to go

types of refractive errors.

home shortly after the procedure.

When considering a vision correction procedure like LASIK, it is impor-

tive and postoperative procedures. How-

Most people return to work the following

tant to know if youâ€™re a candidate. The

ever, the general process before and after

day, or a few days after the procedure

ideal LASIK candidate is an adult over

LASIK consists of a comprehensive eye

depending on recovery time. It is recom-

the age of 18, who is not pregnant or nurs-

exam, a preoperative meeting with your

mended to avoid swimming, using eye

ing, with healthy corneas and proper

surgeon, the LASIK procedure, and a few

makeup or getting water directly into the

expectations. Generally, healthy corneas

postoperative visits to assess the success of

eyes for a couple of weeks following the

are free of eye diseases or abnormalities,

the procedure.

procedure. After the recovery period is

including scars and infections. An eye

During the eye exam, your eyes will be

complete, most patients will be able to

exam can tell if the eyes are healthy

dilated and measurements of your cornea

enjoy seeing the world without a depen-

enough for vision correction surgery. It is

will be taken. This exam will let the oph-

dence on contacts or glasses.

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beautybody&spirit

WHEN IS PELVIC PAIN A SIGN OF SOMETHING SERIOUS? by Steven McCarus, MD, FACOG

Every woman will experience pelvic pain differently — for this reason, many patients don’t fully communicate their pain with their doctor because they believe it’s a normal occurrence. While occasional discomfort and pain is nothing to be worried about, debilitating or chronic pain is far from normal. sound or MRI, pelvic laparoscopy, cystos-

s the medical director of

INTERSTITIAL CYSTITIS — Also known

McCarus Surgical Special-

as painful bladder syndrome, interstitial

copy and colonoscopy. Once a diagnosis is

ists for Women in Celebra-

cystitis is a chronic condition that causes

reached, your doctor will create a plan of

tion and Winter Park, I’ve

bladder pain, frequent urination and pain

care to reduce your pain and prevent fur-

successfully diagnosed and

after intercourse. It can usually be

ther complications from occurring. Some

treated women at every age who are expe-

addressed through dietary changes, medi-

common treatments include over-the-

riencing pelvic pain. The pain may be

cation and other therapies.

counter pain relievers, hormone therapy,

sharp or crampy (similar to menstrual cramps) and may come and go, or it can be sudden and excruciating, dull and constant, or some combination. The pain may also steadily increase in intensity, sometimes occurring in short spurts. Most of

ENDOMETRIOSIS — A condition where the tissue that lines the inside of the uterus instead grows outside of the uterus. Symptoms include heavy periods with severe pain and possible infertility.

physical therapy, injection therapy, psychological counseling and surgery. There are many safe and effective surgical procedures available to you should you and your doctor decide that surgery is the best treatment. A few common procedures include traditional surgery, robotic-

the time, pelvic pain occurs in unison with

FIBROID TUMORS — Fibroids in the

the menstrual cycle, or during ovulation

uterus or on the ovaries are normal, espe-

assisted laparoscopy and other minimally-

when the egg is released.

cially during childbearing years. These

invasive options.

However, if you’ve been experiencing

growths are noncancerous and will often

To get more information on pelvic

consistent, frequent pain for longer than

result in little to no symptoms. However,

health, visit fh4women.com, or call our

three months, then it may be a sign of

once fibroids begin to grow, they can cause

Women’s Health Navigator to find a spe-

something more serious. Chronic pelvic

heavy and prolonged periods, lower back

cialist near you at 407-720-5191.

pain may have no clear cause or it may be

pain, pelvic pain and frequent urination.

due to an underlying medical condition such as:

PELVIC INFLAMMATORY DISEASE — Untreated sexually transmitted diseas-

IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME (IBS)

es (STDs) or other infections are often the

— IBS is a disturbance in the function of

cause of pelvic inflammatory disease

the gastrointestinal tract. Some common

(PID). Symptoms may include pelvic pain,

symptoms include abdominal pain, bloat-

unusual vaginal discharge and a fever.

ing, diarrhea or constipation, and watery can be painful and inconvenient, IBS is

Pelvic pain can be successfully diagnosed

not considered life-threatening and can

through a variety of tests, including a

usually be treated through medication

physical exam, medical history evalua-

and lifestyle adjustments.

tion, blood and urine test, pelvic ultra-

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certified in obstetrics and gynecology and is nationally known as a leader in the practice of minimally-invasive surgery. Dr. McCarus is the Chief of Gynecological Surgery for Florida Hospital Celebration Health, and an integral part of the Winter Park Memorial Hospital Women’s Health Specialties. He is committed to

or frequent bowel movements. Though it

Steven D. McCarus, MD, FACOG, is board-

providing the most advanced and least invasive pelvic and gynecologic treatments available.

beautybody&spirit

SPRING IS HERE

A Beautiful Time of Year to Reconnect with Yourself and Nature

by Deborah Harding, MD, and Victor Harding, MD, Harding Medical Institute

pring, with its beauty,

Proper hydration helps you to

provides us with an

feel full, so you will eat less. In

excellent chance to

general, most people need at

join in life’s resur-

least eight ounces of water

gence. We’ve always

eight times per day. We like the

loved the quote by musician

app, My Water Balance, which

Henry Rollins, “In winter, I plot

tracks your water intake and

and plan. In spring, I move.”

reminds you when you are fall-

This is our chance to move

ing short of your goals.

from New Year’s resolutions to life-enhancing actions. Here,

MAKE SLEEP A PRIORITY

we share a few of our ideas on

For a better, healthier you. Most

how we can take a few steps to

people should try to get between

bona fide life-extending and

enjoy the change of seasons

seven and nine hours of unin100 calories per mile when walking, which

terrupted sleep per night. There is also a

equates to approximately one pound per

critical need for establishing your circadi-

week when walking five miles per day,

an rhythm so that you go to sleep and

Now that the air is fresh and the tempera-

seven days a week. Multiple studies have

wake up at the same time on a regular

tures are warmer, we recommend getting

shown the health benefits of 10,000 steps

basis. Studies show that having a regular

outside and enjoying nature. We are big fans

per day.

sleep cycle will increase your body’s abili-

and to improve the quality of our lives.

EXERCISE OUTDOORS

of walking at least 10,000 steps, approxi-

ty to function at peak performance during

mately five miles, per day. Smartphones

DRINK MORE WATER

have a number of excellent pedometers to

Just like plants, we need water to hydrate

tem. Multiple hormones such as growth

use to record your efforts. Our favorite is

our cells and stay healthy. Approximately

hormones are released during sleep. Proper

Stepz, which is a user friendly app that

half of our body weight is made up of

sleep signals your body to release hor-

graphs out your daily walking history.

the day and strengthen your immune sys-

water. Many functions in our bodies, from

mones and compounds to keep you healthy.

When we play golf, we have started fre-

enzyme reactions to detoxification, require

For example, growth hormone, which

quently walking instead of riding in an

water. Adequate intake of water is one of

is primarily released during sleep, increas-

electric cart. It’s really quite easy using a

the most important aspects of achieving

es lean muscle mass, strengthens bones

pushcart and usually is at least five miles

good health. Water is the key ingredient to

and burns fat. In addition, acetylcholine is

when playing 18 holes. We started doing

removing toxins from our bodies and opti-

essential for adequate brain function. This

this after we were very impressed by a

mizing kidney and liver health. Yet, most

compound is released during dreaming

middle-aged, recent retiree who said he

individuals don’t drink enough fluids dur-

and can be markedly low in people who

had lost more than 60 pounds by walking

ing the day. Multiple studies have shown

are getting poor sleep. Practice good sleep

36 holes of golf per day for six months. All

that one of the key reasons for gaining

hygiene, which means getting rid of excess

things being equal, you should burn about

weight is staying chronically dehydrated.

light, noise and other distractions that can

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beautybody&spirit BALANCE YOUR NUTRIENTS

been shown to help your brain and

occur while you sleep. Some favorite apps are the Sleep Cycle Alarm Clark to ana-

Healthy cells are the key to a healthy body.

blood tests to check your vitamin and

lyze your sleep, White Noise Sleep Pillow

Keep a food journal; it’s not just for weight

mineral levels. Some easy-to-use phone

for ambient sounds, and Breethe, an easy

loss. Keeping track of your intake makes

apps we recommend checking out are

guide to meditation.

you more aware of what you’re eating,

MyFitnessPal, Calorie Counter by FatSecret and Lose It! — Calorie Counter.

interrupt the multiple sleep cycles that

improve memory. There are excellent

Furthermore, if you think you may

which in turn may greatly enhance your

have sleep apnea, ask your doctor to be

weight-loss goals. But it also allows you to

tested. People at higher risk include those

focus on maintaining the proper balance

Spring is a beautiful time of year to recon-

who have hypertension, are obese or snore

of nutrients including protein, carbohy-

nect with yourself and to make some

on a regular basis. Tests for sleep apnea

drates and healthy fats. The proper bal-

important modifications in your lifestyle.

can now be done at home or in specialized

ance of these key nutrients can increase

Simple changes can lead to tremendous

sleep laboratories. You should be checked

lean muscle mass and fat burning, as well

improvements in your life and your health.

for sleep apnea if you snore, wake up mul-

as lowering blood sugar, triglycerides and

Be well and happy!

tiple times during the night, or have diffi-

cholesterol. Many people can unknowingly

culty breathing when sleeping. Sleep

be sugar toxic by consuming too many

apnea has been associated with multiple

carbohydrates, which over time directly

Dr. Deborah Harding is board certified in

health risks including diabetes, hyperten-

leads to increased abdominal girth and

internal, sleep disorder and anti-aging

sion and heart failure. Treatments such as

poor health. Also, micronutrients, includ-

medicine. The Harding Medical Institute

surgery, mouth guards, CPAP machines

ing vitamins and minerals, are extremely

is located in MetroWest. Learn more at

or other devices can correct the problem.

important. For instance, vitamin B12 has

hardingmedicalinstitute.com.

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beautybody&spirit WOMEN WHO INSPIRE — A Florida Hospital for Women Series

BALANCING LIFE: Q&A WITH LESLIE HEIMER Tell us a little about you...

I hope somewhere along the way I am

Dane is such a blessing to our family. He

I’m a seventh generation Florida native

teaching them an importance of a strong

was born five weeks prematurely at Florida

who graduated with from UF in 2001. My

work ethic and inspiring them to follow

Hospital Celebration Health in 2006 with

graduation gift was 50% of the stock in my

their dreams and serve others. Sundays

underdeveloped lungs. We are forever

family’s mortgage business in 2000. After

are critical for a productive week. Many

grateful for the expert OB/GYN physi-

the housing decline in 2008, I accepted a

week days are literally scheduled minute

cians and staff that saw to the needs of our

position in the DC/Maryland area manag-

to minute where I am “on” for 12 hours.

precious newborn. It was the absolute most

ing the business development division of

terrifying time in my life, watching my

an IT and financial management contrac-

preemie full of tubes in the NICU.

tor for the federal government.

Any lessons and/or challenges that you have learned or overcome?

After moving back to Florida in 2014 my husband and pro-golfer, Justin Heimer, and I started our mortgage business for the second time around — this time opening the Orlando branch office of a national lender. My mother, a longtime mortgage

Leslie with her husband, Justin, sons, and the family’s best friend

I hope that I have learned from past challenges and learning opportunities. I have developed a thicker skin and learned to be more self-reliant. The things that you worry

industry veteran, manages the other Flor-

and agonize over are usually not worth giv-

ida branch in my hometown of Winter

ing the energy to. I have learned to say no

Haven. My grandmother was one of the

more often. To protect my sanity and my

first female loan officers at Citrus and

precious family time, sometimes you just need to remember no is a complete sentence.

Chemical Bank in Central Florida… it is in my blood!

Any quotes or mantras that help you get through the tough times?

You are managing your career as well as raising two boys with your husband. How do you get everything done? Do you have any tips for making life more manageable?

I started a personal mission last year to try (emphasis on the word try) to not complain. Not about my schedule, overloaded inbox, or even traffic. The older your children get, you realize they are watching

After completing an MBA last year, I have more weekend time to spend with what I

From meal prep to outfit assembly, we

and listening to everything you do. I want

call my two smelly and rambunctious

have calendar meetings on Sunday after-

them to be calm, peaceful and light — which

boys. They have grown-up with a career

noons so we can coordinate the week’s

can sometimes be the opposite of a high-

mommy who is often juggling many tasks.

tag-team of kids events and business pri-

achieving type-A personality. I want to be

It is about quality over quantity when it

orities. I have an amazing team and could

a role model of gratitude and love. So this

comes to our time together. When we are

never do it all without them.

is a daily practice!

together, we are unplugged, dialed in and

After my son was diagnosed in 2016

one hundred percent engaged. I spend

with Autism Spectrum Disorder, I had to

many hours each week in the board room

scale back some activities to refocus my

How important are friends and those who provide moral support?

but my most important “board” meetings

energies on his education and ensure that

My family is my rock. We are very close

are at our kitchen table playing monopoly.

he gets the resources he needs to thrive.

and have always been… probably a little

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too close sometimes. We literally vacation together every year with three generations and my sister’s family who is also a boy-household. I literally still speak to my mom every day, sometimes twice a day… I know, right!?

How do you get a little “me” time in your life? When I am not with my boys at some field or court or course, I enjoy all things super girly like fashion, décor and spa treatments. I also love to play tennis and try to protect a few hours a week to get my workouts in on the tennis courts.

You always look so cool, calm and collected, any secrets to your personal style? You are too kind. I do love fashion. When I was little I always played dress up in my mom’s 1980s business suits. I only wanted to grow up to be a business woman so I could dress up every day. I don’t really believe in casual Fridays.

What do you enjoy and look forward to? Travel and unplugged time outdoors.

NEED HELP BALANCING YOU AND YOUR FAMILY’S HEALTH? One call to Florida Hospital for Women’s Health Navigator Doreen Forsythe, BSN, RN, can help you coordinate all your health care. Florida Hospital for Women understands the intricate role women play in their family’s healthcare decisions and needs. Doreen is a specially trained registered nurse who is available to help women access Florida Hospital’s extensive network of services across Central Florida. This coordination specialist not only provides expert, clinical assistance, but also helps manage your overall care and identifies ways to speed up the process of scheduling physician appointments and procedures. The health navigator acts as your personal advocate — creating a seamless healthcare experience that focuses on health, wellness, hospitality and convenience.

Doreen Forsythe, BSN, RN

As a registered nurse, Doreen has been a valued member of the Florida Hospital team since 2001. Graduating from Villanova University in Pennsylvania, she has more than 15 years of experience in multiple nursing disciplines including cardiology, neurology, surgery and nursing education. No matter what kind of women’s health services you need, Doreen can connect you with the right doctors and resources to ensure you receive the best treatment available. This complimentary service is available to all women.

HEALTH NAVIGATOR SERVICES •

Answering your questions

•

Scheduling your appointments

•

Coordinating care among providers

at The Ritz-Carlton.

•

Discussing insurance issues

In 2016 Leslie was honored with the

•

Connecting you and your family with resources and support services

•

Serving as a constant link between you and your healthcare team

•

Scheduling private tours of our facilities

•

Gathering information about clinical trials and other research initiatives

Whether it is at the beach or our family’s hunting compound, we love to be outdoors and connected for a little reenergizing. Sometimes you just have to leave the phone locked in a drawer. Also, spa time

Girl Scouts Women of Distinction award for her professional achievements, ethical leadership and commitment to making a difference. Currently, Leslie sits on the board of directors for Orlando, Inc. as well as the Junior League of Greater Orlando and is a member of Commercial Real

To speak to Doreen, or to schedule an appointment, call 407- 720-5191.

Estate Women Orlando. march | april 2018

tastes&experiences deLIGHTfully delicious Fresh and tasty, The Sanctum CafĂŠ, in the Mills 50 District, makes plant-based dishes that are more than just good for you. The flavors practically explode in your mouth and each plate or bowl is beautifully prepared. Owned and operated by Chelsie and Jamie Savage, The Sanctumâ€™s menu offers a wide variety of vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options. This is the sushi bowl with tamari-roasted sweet potato, edamame, carrot, cucumber, avocado, pickled radish, seaweed, organic house tempeh, ginger-miso dressing, wasabi aioli and black sesame. thesanctumcafe.com 56

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tastes&experiences

QUANTUM LEAP WINERY: INNOVATING AND EVOLVING It’s been five years since Quantum Leap Winery opened with a mission of sustainability. Transporting bottled wine long distances is not only expensive, but environmentally unfriendly. The winery’s owners, Jill Ramsier and David Forrester, wanted to reinvent the wine-to-market delivery process. So, they have been bringing in the wine — up to 6,000 gallons — via tankers or large containers, and finishing, blending (in some cases) and bottling or packaging it on-site at their facilities in Orlando. They even started using alternative

Jill Ramsier and David Forrester

vessels such as kegs, pouches or boxes.

include the ability to use this space as a

hone in on high-quality wines. And we

venue [for 100 events a year]. There is a

have great partnerships. That whole piece

try executive and David was an environ-

wedding a week here from October to May.

is working very, very well,” David says.

mental industry pioneer. They bonded

I would also say the quality of the wines is

“We had an ambition to have people

over their shared passion for wine and

even higher — and we had high expecta-

like us — people who really enjoy wine

wine-making, and maintain very high

tions — than we anticipated. By bringing in

and drink $30 bottles regularly — to be the

standards for the wines they now offer.

a winemaker with 15 years of experience

heart and soul of the business. For a lot of

“The things that have been successes,

and another person with 20 years in the

reasons, that’s not where we ended up get-

maybe above and beyond what we thought,

wine business, we have been able to really

ting started. Part of that is our own sales

BEFORE LAUNCHING QUANTUM LEAP, Jill was a food and beverage indus-

because we passed on a lot of the savings from the sustainable way we move wine around and made our price points lower. So, people who buy the $30 bottles might think less of our wine because it’s only $15 a bottle,” he continues. To reach those quality-minded buyers, they have created a Barrel Club where a group of people get together and basically buy a barrel of wine that they participate in making. “They sign up at the beginning when we may have brought in 10 varietals, and they sit down with us and our winemaker, tasting them. Then they try some blending and try to come up with an idea of what they would like to make. We make a few small bottles and try it. Then after a week or two, they try it again before tweak58

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whole other element, especially with a bourbon barrel. The cider appeals to people who like beer and those who like wine. “Cider is a good fit for us because it’s a fruit-based alcohol, so breweries can’t make it. But you typically find it for sale at breweries. It’s a filtered crushed juice that Norm takes through fermentation with a champagne-style, or sparkling, wine yeast. We take it almost to dry so it’s really elegant. It’s carbonated, but not heavily, so it’s very wine-like,” Jill adds. The founders are also passionate about community causes and have supported the Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando for many years. They donate a portion of proceeds from each bottle of Kaley’s Rescue Red Blend, My Best Friend and Panther’s Tale that is sold. My Best Friend bottles feature a winning (as voted upon) rescue pet, from the Pet Alliance of Greater ing it. It’s a four- or five-step process, always

for our wine club, where we are trying to

Orlando, on the label. To date, donations

with the winemaker. They may tweak again

bring in more aficionados. It continues to

have totaled more than $100,000.

while it’s in the barrel. Then they create

grow and is a really fun part of our busi-

Jill and David are very pleased with

their own label and participate in the bot-

ness. Our portfolio has expanded beyond

their success and continue to enjoy what

tling. They end up with two cases of wine

some of our original varietals. We have a

they are doing. “We really appreciate the

each. It comes in at about 20 a bottle for

great Marsanne. Our Petite Syrah sold out

love and support we have received from

wine that would typically be $40-$50 a bot-

in a month. We are doing more small lots,

the Orlando community. It’s been absolutely

tle,” he explains.

giving people more of an opportunity to

amazing,” Jill says. “When people get to

explore the world of wine,” she shares.

know us, they really love us,” David adds.

They started the club last year and did four barrels with participants. The number

Quantum Leap is now releasing one

is somewhat limited because it is very time

Port-style wine, a dessert wine named

consuming for the staff, but they think they

Dog Watch. Next year, in the fall, they

1312 Wilfred Dr., Orlando 32803

could manage up to 12 a year. It’s very edu-

plan to release a white Port. They have

407-730-3082 | quantumleapwinery.com

cational and experiential, offering an in-

expanded beyond the traditional reds and

depth look into the process of winemaking.

whites, offering rosés and varietals. The

“We are sourcing from all over; Wash-

Quantum Leap Winery

newest member of the family is a cider.

ington, Oregon, California — where we

“We started small and the first cider

have multiple new partnerships — and in

Norm made was entered in the Florida

the fall we’re headed to Spain to work on

Brewers Guild competition and won the

some partnerships there. We still have

gold medal. So, this past year we entered

partners in Italy. We like to have a good

another cider — Pedaler’s Hopped Up Hard

variety of sources,” Jill says.

Cider — into the U.S. Open Cider Champi-

“There has been a change in our phi-

onship and that won a gold medal. We are

losophy due to having a winemaker [Nor-

making phenomenal ciders and are add-

man Saley] and also a self-certified wine

ing seasonal ones as well,” David says.

geek [Matt Uva] on staff as we are bringing

Among the flavors are coffee, strawberry

in more unique varietals. A lot of that is

and peanut butter. Barrel finishing adds a march | april 2018

tastes&experiences

THE

World AT YOUR FEET

by Christi Ashby

Staycation, anyone? We can pretty much take for granted the large, amenity-filled resorts just minutes away. They provide an opportunity for a little escape while letting us enjoy all the sights and sounds designed for visitors. For some post-holiday chill (literally), we spent a January weekend at the Orlando World Center Marriott. The weather was sunny — but unexpectedly cold. So, typical poolside plans were out. But we spent our hours on another pastime — people watching.

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he 28 floors, with 2,009 guest-

step slide tower features two 200-foot

rooms, including 120 suites in

winding waterslides and one 90-foot

10 varieties, provided a front-

speed waterslide — among the tallest and

row seat to out-of-towners as I

fastest resort slides in Florida — in addi-

daresay we were the only locals

tion to a Splash Zone, offering kids a zero-

on-site. There was a large conference going

entry pool and playground, as well as a

on, as well as some nearby youth sporting

Kid’s Activity Center, Poolside Bar and

events. From initial check-in on Friday

Grill, and an expanded pool deck and

afternoon through a lazy Sunday check-

lawn for poolside events or activities. And

out, we were never bored — even without

yes, there were resort guests using the

a game of golf or some sun-worshipping.

facilities in the 50-degree temperatures.

Our spacious suite was very comfort-

The lush, tropical oasis highlights the

able and scenic with two large balconies

curvy, 564,000-gallon, palm-lined pool set

overlooking the Falls Pool Oasis — ranked

amongst a backdrop of rock outcroppings

one the “world’s coolest hotel pools” by

with several waterfalls. In the evening,

Forbes and one of the top 10 “world’s cool-

four 13-minute customized shows trans-

est hotel slides” by ABC News. The 104-

form the pool deck into a kaleidoscope of

vibrant colors with dazzling visual and

Saturday morning was still sunny and

audio effects and lights synchronized with

really cold. But a hot breakfast at Latitude

music.

& Longitude gave us the energy to venture

Before spending the afternoon explor-

out. Just across I-4, Disney Springs pro-

ing the premises, we headed to Latitude &

vided the perfect setting to stroll. We

Longitude, the all-day dining spot, for a

popped in several stores, picking up some

bite and welcome cocktail. For dinner we

gifts, and slowly meandered through the

decided to try Mikado Japanese Steak-

complex, making some mental notes of

house. Arriving a little before our reserva-

places to visit later. One of our favorite

tion, we were able to order a bottle of wine

spots to just stop and watch is Chef Art

at the bar that would then be brought to

Smith’s Homecomin’. It pays homage to

our dinner table.

Florida’s rich agricultural heritage by

Once seated with a group of friendly

highlighting local ingredients and farm-

strangers, the teppan-yaki chef began his

to-table cuisine in a relaxed setting. Our

show of knives, fire and fast flips of food

perch is the bar where we can drool over

items. We had made our meal selection

the piled-high plates of Southern fare and

without realizing there were some appe-

We thought it would be nice to have a

discover new custom, craft cocktails —

tizers included so it was more than we

nightcap on our balcony while watching

could finish. The couple from Georgia we

the Disney fireworks. Luckily, a quick stop

By mid-afternoon I was ready for my

chatted with were in town for the Mecum

at the Central Pantry — a grab-and-go

50-minute personalized massage with

auto auction, but everyone else at the table

marketplace — offered exactly what we

techniques and styles such as Swedish,

was there for the conference.

needed. It was a blissful goodnight.

medium pressure, deep tissue, warm stones

some with potent moonshine.

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Disney Springs

tastes&experiences and aromatherapy. It was heavenly. The full-service, boutique spa features soothing music, and a comfortable waiting lounge with herbal teas and fresh fruit. From massages — such as the signature Around the World in Eighty Minutes, allowing guests to experience a tour of various relaxation-induced techniques — and chamomile body polishes to aromatherapy journeys, mani’s, pedi’s and facials, as well as other skin and body treatments, the spa features nine treatment rooms, two mani/pedi stations, premier spa products and an attentive staff. There is also a private spa pool, whirlpool and steam room open daily from 8am – 8pm. Back at the room, I may have dozed for just a bit before dressing for dinner. Since it was still a football weekend, we headed to High Velocity, the lobby-level sports bar featuring 28 flat-panel HDTVs and casual eats — beers, burgers, wings. Our table at Siro Urban Italian Kitchen afforded us a secluded view of the lobby’s comings and goings — and there was plenty to see. A farm-to-fork restaurant, Chef de Cuisine Kyle Anderson has created a menu featuring dishes inspired by and utilizing local fare, as well as plates that boast vibrant flavors. From artisan cured meats and cheeses to small plates and fresh market vegetables, dishes are served family style on oversized wooden planks. Our food — house-made focaccia, brussels sprouts with orange blossom vinegar, balsamic marinated ribeye and mushroom lasagna — was delicious and the service, excellent. The next morning, after sleeping in a bit and indulging in a bounteous brunch, the weather had warmed, the sun was still shining, and we were relaxed and ready to head home. The weekend had served its purpose well — a much-needed mental and physical break in less than 48 hours.

Orlando World Center Marriott 8701 Word Center Dr., Orlando 32821 407-239-4200 | marriott.com/orlando 62

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remodel showcase The team at Farina & Sons, Inc., transformed a 1930s home using the latest products and building techniques as The New American Remodel 2018, part of the 2018 International Builders Show. A larger feature on the project will be published in the Spring/Summer issue of Interior Appeal. In the meantime, here’s a sneak peek at the stunning interiors, designed by Gribble Interior Group. The home will be available to tour during the 2018 Parade of Homes Remodeler’s Showcase, May 5 – 6. 64

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JEFFREY A. DAVIS PHOTOGRAPHY, INC.

home&design

EMERGING KITCHEN TRENDS IN 2018:

The Next Big Thing in Kitchen Design from KBIS

KBIS 2018 exhibitor displaying a chicken wire light

by Karen LeBlanc

The National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) recently revealed the findings of its 2018 Design Trends Study. There weren’t a lot of new revelations; style trends continue their same trajectory from last year with contemporary and transitional looks dominating over traditional designs, but one fresh finding was the rise of farmhouse-style kitchens. While white and gray color palettes, frameless cabinets and quartz countertops remain design elements du jour, one unexpected takeaway was the emergence in popularity of hardwood flooring, given the high-traffic demands of the kitchen. (I suspect the farmhouse aesthetic has some influence.) The NKBA annually surveys designers, remodelers, architects, dealers and

EARTHY KITCHENS

manufacturers to track which kitchen and bathroom styles are most popular

Mother Nature is cooking up influential

among consumers, deep diving into materials, finishes, colors, appliances and lighting fixtures. As trend reports go, I like to consider the tipping point of a

design schemes for the kitchen with artisanal accents such as basket lighting, chicken wire accents, reclaimed materials

trend lifecycle when the market becomes saturated and consumers grow

and earthy elements including natural

weary, wanting something fresh — the next big thing that differentiates their

stone mixed with live-edge counters. The

décor. We are going to focus on emerging trends in kitchen design teased out of the 2018 National Kitchen and Bath Show, known as KBIS. It’s where kitchen and bath manufacturers roll out new products and innovations, hoping to wow designers and retailers and create a buzz in the marketplace. Here are eight emerging trends influencing kitchen design. 66

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look is a twist on the farmhouse-style kitchen, but less countrified, and more sophisticated. At KBIS, I saw a lot of woven basket shade pendants with LED bulbs, grouped together in various shapes and heights, paired with sleek quartz and farmhouse sinks.

KITCHEN COLOR POPS Although white and gray Ombré finish faucets by Kohler

remain the top color palette for the kitchen, I’m beginning to see more pops of color, especially with appliances.

OMBRÉ FINISHES

Last year, appliances were

True Residential's new Cobalt Blue finish; Kitchen by Wellborn Cabinet Inc.

all about black stainless steel. In 2018, expect them to brighten up in vibrant colors with

Ombré, that gradient color pattern from

blue being a hands-down favorite. Hestan debuted its new luxury kitchen collection in 12

light to dark, is a style trend that first sur-

colors, showcasing blue wall ovens, range, hood, dishwasher and refrigerator, all with

faced in furniture upholstery and decora-

knurled detailing. Smeg amped up color in the kitchen, creating appliance art with its

tive fabrics and is now making its way into

Dolce & Gabbana collection of refrigerators and small appliances decorated with interpre-

appliances, fittings and fixtures. Kohler is

tations of Sicilian folklore. The NKBA Design

embracing this emerging trend with its

Trends Study echoes my observation, noting that

new Ombré Vibrant finish for kitchen and

people are starting to integrate more color into

bath faucets. I predict more manufacturers

their kitchen design. At the show, several kitchen

will release ombré finishes in the coming

vignettes exemplified this move toward color

year as this trend takes hold. The technique

with vibrant painted walls, such as Wellborn

melds two metal finishes together to ren-

Cabinet Inc.’s retro kitchen, painted in Benja-

der a subtle transition from light to dark.

Dolce & Gabbana SMEG toaster

min Moore’s Aruba blue with black cabinetry.

march | april 2018

home&design COPLANAR CABINET DOORS Coplanar cabinet doors that slide from the side are winning over consumers for their space-saving ease of use. Sliding doors

Kitchen cabinetry by Bright Wood Works with Hafele hardware

require less clearance to open, making them ideal for smaller kitchens on upper and lower cabinets. The door style is in perfect sync with the popular frameless cabinetry trend noted by NKBA, with cabinet face materials incorporating more glass with painted back panels, textures and inlaid resins in 2018.

ROSE GOLD

KNURLED DETAILING Knurling is a technique that creates contin-

Other show standouts include ROHL’s

uous, intricate, repetitive patterns mechan-

Italian Campo Collection of knurled kitchen

ically engraved into surfaces via engine

faucets and handles in brass, matte black

turning. I credit the London designer Mas-

and chrome. Brizo’s Litze kitchen collec-

simo Buster Minale with popularizing

tion puts a steampunk twist on the trend

knurled detailing in home décor with his

with its tubing for the faucet body and

cutting-edge brand Buster + Punch. I first

knurled spout and handles. For kitchen

met Massimo at the London Design Festi-

hardware, Amerock’s Esquire Collection

val in 2013 when he was debuting his

offers knurled knobs and pulls.

knurled brass hardware collection and

satin metal and matte rubber detailing.

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tures and fittings. The NKBA Design Trends Study pegged rose gold, paired with white, as part of an emerging trend in kitchen design. I suspect consumers are growing tired of all that shiny chrome and stainless steel, opting for metallic finishes with a soft hint of color. Major

collections of kitchen faucets and fittings. Esquire Collection in Polished Nickel by Amerock

Knurled Pendants by Buster & Punch

ROHL’s Italian Campo Collection of knurled faucets in chrome

ing at KBIS in both kitchen and bath fix-

featured rose gold prominently in their

crossed the pond with its Heavy Metal colbulbs and the designer’s signature knurled

and brass, rose gold made a strong show-

brands such as Kohler, Brizo and Delta

light pendants. Today, Buster + Punch has lection of single-light pendants with LED

A warmer, pink-tinted alternative to gold

Kohler faucet in rose gold finish

home&design Left: ANN SACKS Craze collection tiles in grey; below: Hastings Tile & Bath Craft collection

CRACKLE AND CLAY BRICK TILES Perhaps riding the farmhouse style crest, clay brick tile is beginning to surface on kitchen backsplashes for a handcrafted touch. Hastings Tile & Bath debuted its Craft collection of handmade clay brick tile with patterns ranging from hand-drawn horizontal lines to more intricate horizontal and vertical line patterns. ANN SACKS introduced its Craze collection of porcelain tile that uses a glass-like glaze to create its crackle design inspired by ancient Italian

JEFFREY A. DAVIS PHOTOGRAPHY

pottery.

SPACE-WITHIN-A-SPACE Another emerging trend shaping kitchens is this whole idea of a space within a space. Envision open-concept kitchens with sub-spaces, such as a homework station or bill-paying center, defined by half walls or niche-type structures. The NKBA made note of this design concept in its trends survey and I’m seeing these kitchen niche

NKBA Winner in Large Kitchen Category. Designed by Elma Yvette Gardner, CMKBD, and Josh Anderson

spaces in new construction and show homes.

Karen LeBlanc is host of The Design Tourist series. She travels the globe attending some of the

The NKBA describes current kitchen style as “clean, minimalist and modern

events in search of the latest

with a touch of luxury,” and I expect the aesthetic will continue evolving

trends, tastemakers and

and embracing more natural elements, mixed materials, creative spaces,

unique finds. Learn more

technology and color. Our 2018 emerging design trends report continues in the next issue of Interior Appeal with a focus on emerging trends in the bathroom, where wellness is influencing technology and style.

world’s premiere design

orangeappeal.com

at thedesigntourist.com.

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Creative

COLLABORATION FRIENDS AND DESIGNING WOMEN JULIE VON WELLER, HELEN MARTINEZ AND ANSLEY SCHRIMSHER GATHERED AT A COLLEGE PARK HOME TO SHOWCASE SPRING LOOKS THAT SUITED THEIR PERSONALITIES AND ILLUSTRATED THE COLORS AND SILHOUETTES FOR THE SEASON. JULIE COLLABORATED WITH SEVERAL WOMENOWNED AND MANAGED BOUTIQUES AND BUSINESSES TO STYLE THIS SHOOT, DEMONSTRATING THE POWER AND PASSION OF JUST SOME OF THIS COMMUNITYâ€™S WOMEN CREATIVES.

STYLING:

JULIE VON WELLER, FRESHLY CAST, freshlycast.com

MODELS:

JULIE VON WELLER, HELEN MARTINEZ and ANSLEY SCHRIMSHER

HAIR:

BRITTANY D and MORGAN THOMAS, KENDALL + KENDALL HAIR COLOR STUDIO

MAKEUP:

GENEVIEVE LICONA and DANIELLE FENNELL, KENDALL + KENDALL

LOCATION:

PRIVATE RESIDENCE STAGED BY COLLAGE HOME AND STAGING PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTI

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ASHBY

Helen (left) wears a Dolce & Gabbana red dress, $1,675, Gucci Opehlia embroidered gold metallic sandals, $940, Dannijo Maddie floral statement earrings, $495, and Jose & Maria Barrera gold leaf bangle, $365, all from Neiman Marcus. She is holding a Weekend Wayfarer (WKND WYFR) Harbour Island fuchsia and gold envelope clutch, $ 108, weekend-wayfarer.com. Julie (center) is in an Alexander McQueen lust red tunic, $2,495, Neiman Marcus; Paige Skyline ankle jeans, $229, Continuum; Giuseppe Zanotti leopard print grosgrain sandals, $795, Neiman Marcus; Devon Leigh filigree coin drop earrings, $395, Neiman Marcus; and Light Lover 1940s rhinestones accented by 1950s gold link chain necklace, $189, Dora Mae Jewelry. Ansley (right) wears a Johanna Ortiz floral duster, $2,250, Johanna Ortiz Toluca top, $495, Frame high-rise skinny fit jeans, $ 239, and Yves Saint Laurent Lulu mule sandals, $795, all from Neiman Marcus; India Hicks Branching Out earrings, $160, indiahicks.com; and Of Magic and Majesty 1940s brass and mother of pearl inlay choker accented by an art deco clip, $ 149, Dora Mae Jewelry.

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Julie Von Weller: As the owner of a boutique, Thread, on Park Avenue, for six years, I had the opportunity to make meaningful connections every day. Whether it was a loyal client coming in to see the latest collections or a brand new one, visiting from out of town, in just for the day. The ability to have an experience with someone is so often what our society is craving. Having served as the Park Avenue Merchants Association (PAMA) president during a time of great vibrancy, also brought great challenges, giving me the opportunity to truly understand what our community is all about. Walking together, not alone. I get the opportunity to walk alongside many in my roles as director of community strategies for ACi Architects, owner of my styling business Freshly Cast, and as a director with India Hicks Lifestyle Brand. Years after Thread, I missed those meaningful connections with women through fashion. So, I created Freshly Cast, which offers the ability to connect and provide opportunity for our clients to look and feel their best through our styling services. Fashion is about expressing a point of view. An attitude. Everyone has the ability to choose their attitude each day. Granted, some days are harder than others. It is our job to work alongside our clients with the pieces they already own to curate looks best suited for their lifestyle, obligations and moments of exploration. We bring 12 years of experience for carefully editing, curating and procuring looks which give women the power to express how they feel, what they believe in, and who they are. All of this is about so much more than clothes, shoes, jewelry and beauty products. It is about feeling comfortable, healthy, and alive in your own skin. I am blessed to have three precious gifts. My husband, Ryan, and our children, Caitlin and Cade, who keep us on our heels and inspire us each day. Julie wears an Amanda Uprichard Nolita blazer, $275, Cami lace camisole, $154, and Allen Schwartz Clara satin pants, $290, all from Tuni; Aquazzura Goddess strappy satin sandals, $950, Alexis Bittar ring, $123, and Oscar de la Renta two-tone beaded hoop clip-on earrings, $370, from Neiman Marcus; Composing Hope art deco all rhinestone pendant hung from 1960s gold link and knot chain on iridescent beaded chain handcrafted in Madagascar, $229, Dora Mae Jewelry; and India Hicks Shift & Switch blush handbag, $295, indiahicks.com.

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Ansley wears a Generation Love sweater, $148, Tuni; J Brand Photo Ready Vinca destruct capris, $ 228, Dolce & Gabbana floral reversible bomber, $ 2,595, and Jimmy Choo Miami ballet pink leather/satin sneakers, $550, from Neiman Marcus; Â Song and Dance 1940s Â rhinestones layered over antiqued brass crescent earrings accented by light pink delicate tassels, $189, and Love Kisses Smiles 1950s teardrop rhinestone brooches layered over wood pendants, hung from a pink beaded chain handcrafted in Madagascar, $189, Dora Mae Jewelry. Helen wears a Rails blouse, $148, and Frame skinny cropped jeans, $185, from Neiman Marcus; Come Fly with Me 1960s hand-painted bird earrings paired with blush pink tassels, $149, Dora Mae Jewelry; Magnetic gold bracelet, $28, and Sophie bracelet, $48, Tuni; WKND WYFR Silver Sunset clutch, $108, weekend-wayfarer.com. Julie wears a Rebecca Minkoff Viko top, $148, and Paige Skyline ankle jeans, $229, from Continuum; Brunello Cucinelli cashmere sequin cropped cardigan, $3,645, Tory Burch Tatiana pearl slides, $328, and Oscar de le Renta Flower Garden hoop earrings, $465, from Neiman Marcus; (On the table) Urban Expressions rose gold backpack, $88, Tuni.

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Ansley Schrimsher: One thing I’ve always known about Dora Mae jewelry is it’s never been about the “what”— selling jewelry, but instead about the “why” — breathing new life and beauty into the world, one heirloom at a time! I have a passion for people and their stories and hope to invite them into the joy of creating fashion-forward jewelry from their family’s past. Our core values are to restore, revive, reimagine, rediscover and renew! For our retail clients who don’t have heirlooms to work with but still love boho-glam jewelry, I love helping them discover the magic of one-ofa-kind style. Equal parts vintage joy and modern magic, each piece for sale in our gallery is designed to celebrate unique style and perspective. When customers walk out our studio doors and feel as free and original as the jewelry they are wearing, our mission is complete. For our custom clients, the collaborative process involves sharing family stories and traditions. We find ourselves laughing and crying (sometimes in the same moment) as they recount memories of loved ones or celebrate a family milestone. At times it’s even been a healthy part of the grieving process that allows people to celebrate the lives of people they love and miss the most. It’s not an overstatement to say it’s an honor to be trusted with these precious pieces from their past and to translate the heart of these heirlooms into something modern. We love being a part of the Orlando creative community and supporting our fellow artists and designers. We will be adding more local accessories designers to the shop in the coming weeks — including a special collaboration with WKND WYFR. At the end of the day, I find the most joy in the small things: connecting creatively with my amazing clients, conquering a business challenge with my amazing team of employees, and empowering my team of incredible artisans, 9,000 miles away in Madagascar. If in all this I manage to honor my grandmother “Mae Mae’s” — who’s large vintage jewelry collection was the inspiration for this entire adventure — vast and varied creative legacy, my joy is complete! Ansley wears a Haute Hippie floral halter dress, $$545, Neiman Marcus; Jkt NYC Jilli burnish vest, $295, Tuni; Neely Phelan gold and lucite hoops, $75, The Grove; Dreams to Life 1960s iridescent brooch on a mother of pearl crescent pendant with milk glass beaded tassel and chain, $229, Dora Mae Jewelry; BMB bangles, $38, Tuni; Yves Saint Laurent Tribute sandals, $995, Neiman Marcus.

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Julie is in a Dolce & Gabbana floral blouse, $ 1,275, and Alice + Olivia high-waisted blush pants, $295, Neiman Marcus; Through Loveâ€™s Eternity 1950s rhinestone brooch on a 1960s brushed hold arrow collar necklace, $ 229, Dora Mae Jewelry; Sheila Fajl brushed gold hoops, $73, The Grove. Helen wears an Alexander McQueen lipstick pink dress, $2,395, Neiman Marcus; India Hicks White Out necklace, $220, indiahicks.com; Jimmy Choo Lancer patent pumps, $795, Neiman Marcus; Tory Burch Gemini Link leather tote, $598, Neiman Marcus.

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Ansley is in a Dolce & Gabbana cheetah inlay sweater, $1,195, Alice + Olivia green high-waisted pants, $295, and Valentino Garavani Lovestuds caged metallic sandals, $ 1,295, all from Neiman Marcus; and Simmering Sensibility 1950s rhinestone twist drop earrings, $149, Dora Mae Jewelry.

About the location: Destined to be torn down, this 1920s-era home nestled in College Park was rescued and completely renovated by locals Grant Gribble and Jack Hanson, owners of Gribble Interior Group and Collage Home and Staging. They have created a beautiful, yet functional home, incorporating pieces in a calming and light color palette designed to complement the home’s gorgeous Lake Concord views and natural light. It made for a perfect setting for this spring fashion inspired shoot.

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Helen is in a Trina Turk white blouse, $198, and Trina Turk floral silk pants, $288, from Continuum; Oscar de la Renta resin leaf and monkey motif earrings, $325, Neiman Marcus; Avec Les Filles Joia suede sandals, $ 158, Tuni; WKND WYFR Latitude 28 clutch, $ 108, weekend-wayfarer.com.

About hair and makeup: Kendall + Kendall, a Winter Park staple, is a dedicated team of art-driven stylists. Salon owner Kendall McElveen cultivates a creative workplace for her team to create inspiring work. Kendall and her team strive to ensure that education is a priority and that the learning process continues to grow. The salon is located on South Park Avenue in Winter Park. Contact at 407-629-2299.

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Helen Martinez: My mantra is, you have to do what you love! As president of Black Elk Group, a real estate development and investment firm, and co-owner of WKND WYFR — I get to do just that. I have the privilege of being able to indulge the left and right sides of my brain simultaneously, all while working and collaborating with people for whom I have tremendous respect. At Black Elk Group, I collaborate alongside Craig Ustler and Brooke Myers, working on several real estate development projects, including Creative Village, a 68-acre, urban in-fill development in the heart of downtown Orlando, and Florida Hospital Health Village – both of which are transformative projects in our community. I started my career as a real estate and securities lawyer and transitioning to pure real estate development has satisfied both my creative and analytical side, which is why I love it. At Weekend Wayfarer (WKND WYFR), I get to work with my friend and co-owner Lauren Morgan, designing clutches and other accessories. After an inspiring trip abroad, Lauren and I started designing and WKND WYFR was born. We have had a great response and have even sold out of most styles in our first run! Our bags are now carried at several of the Four Seasons Resort locations and we are collaborating with Dora Mae Jewelry on a special line out this spring. I would be remiss without mentioning two of my biggest passions: my family and supporting and sponsoring other women. My husband, John, has been nothing but supportive of my desire to do what I love. We both want to build something for our girls, Virginia (6) and Tindal (4) — and demonstrate the value in going after what you want in life, even if it doesn’t always turn out the way you had hoped. As for supporting other women, Ansley and Julie are real life examples of this and we all need to play our part in elevating others! Buy products from local designers and store owners or help promote their products to others via social media; take five minutes to nominate a woman you admire for a local award (there are plenty!); or contribute to or join a local political campaign or organization like Athena International. Orlando has an incredible community of women and we need to use that power! Helen wears a Roland Mouret red jumpsuit, $2,560, Devon Leigh antiqued turquoise and coral statement ring, $395, and Gucci Opehlia embroidered gold metallic sandals, $940, all from Neiman Marcus; Known Worthiness 1950s rhinestone rings accented by antique gold crescent pendants, $189, Dora Mae Jewelry.

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Ansley is in an Alice McCall silk faille romper, $450, Tuni; A Dash of Moxie 1960s amber acrylic bib necklace, $ 229, Dora Mae Jewelry; Aquazzura Goddess strappy satin sandals, $950, Neiman Marcus. Julie wears a Frank & Eileen denim frayed button up, $248, Johanna Ortiz eyelet ruffle maxi, $1,650, and Aquazurra Purist metallic leather sandals, $695, all from Neiman Marcus.

Where to shop: Continuum 1210 S. International Pkwy., Suite 170, Lake Mary 32746

The Grove 121 E. Welbourne Ave., Winter Park 32789

Tuni 301 S. Park Ave., Winter Park 32789 Dora Mae Jewelry 1620 N. Orange Ave., Orlando 32804 (Pieces also available at Sultre and The Pink Chalet) Neiman Marcus Orlando The Mall at Millenia, 4170 Conroy Road, Orlando 32839

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CONFERENCE HIGHLIGHTS Moderator

MYTHS & TRUTHS DEBUNKED From having it all to the quest for perfection, no one has it all figured out.

HOT TOPICS 10 - 10:45am

DANA NICHOLSON BLEDSOE, FACHE, MBA, serves as president of Nemours Children’s Hospital in Orlando’s Lake Nona Medical City. She assumed leadership of the 100-bed academic medical center in August 2015 and is focused on building and expanding world-class programs at Nemours to provide the best possible care for the most-complex pediatric cases. Previously she served as president of Children’s and Women’s Hospital, part of the Sacred Heart Health System in Pensacola. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Loretto Heights College (now Regis University) in Denver, a Master of Science in Nursing Administration from the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Colorado at Denver.

Panelists

breakout sessions

DR. RUTH HILL YEILDING is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon and is medical director of YMD Eye & Face, her solo medical practice in Winter Park, FL. Dr. Yeilding specializes in eyelid lift and facelift surgery, but also does Botox and filler injections and offers medical grade skincare. Dr Yeilding’ s extensive training includes a BS in biology and MD degrees, both Magna Cum Laude; Ophthalmology Residency at Vanderbilt; and an intensive facial cosmetic surgery fellowship with renowned facial plastic surgeon John Fezza, MD, in Sarasota. Dr. Yeilding enjoys yoga, bicycling and water skiing, and spending time with her husband, Randy, (her practice manager), and young children, Rudy and Scarlett

AMY PENNOCK, owner of Pennock Consulting Group, works for companies across the country, including the nonprofit Shepherd’s Hope, providing outsourced chief financial officer services. Prior to forming her small business in 2011, Amy held senior financial management positions in healthcare and construction. Amy has devoted her free time to giving back and improving the Seminole County community, in which she lives, and serves on the board of Goodwill of Central Florida and the Seminole County Regional Chamber of Commerce. She currently is the president-elect for Florida Executive Women. Despite her busy schedule, she also volunteers with her children’s activities. With her husband, Tim, she has three daughters, Madison and twins Savannah and Delaney.

ALLISON WALSH, JD, currently serves as the Vice President of Business Development for Advanced Recovery Systems, a national behavioral healthcare company dedicated to the treatment of addiction, substance abuse and mental health issues. In 2001, she founded Helping Other People Eat (H.O.P.E.), a 501c3 nonprofit organization focused on the prevention and awareness of eating disorders. Additionally, she serves on the board for the National Eating Disorders Association and has personally shared her story of overcoming anorexia and bulimia with more than 100,000 people. She loves empowering young women and recently published “The Savvy Girl’s Guide to Post-Grad Success.” She resides in Windermere with her husband, Brian, and daughters, Madison and Brooklyn.

DR. LYNN LE, MD is a board-certified family medicine physician and medical acupuncturist She is the founder and medical director of Le Concierge MD, an integrative, boutique medical practice in downtown Orlando. She utilizes a holistic approach, combining Western medical science with Eastern medical art. Dr. Le earned her medical degree from the University of South Florida and completed her medical acupuncture training at the renowned Helms Medical Institute in Berkley, California. A mother of three, she is passionate about total patient health, focusing on disease prevention, providing emotional support and guiding lifestyle choices.

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givingback

Supplying Central Florida’s Teachers for 20 Years

by Jaqueta Abbey, communications coordinator, A Gift For Teaching

When philanthropist and nonprofit professional Gary Landwirth founded A Gift For Teaching (AGFT) in 1998, he didn’t know that the small organization created to ease the burden of teachers’ out-of-pocket expenses would become a pioneer among free stores.

n the 20 years since its inception, AGFT has blossomed into a multifaceted operation providing more than 12,000 Central Florida

teachers

with

free

school supplies that enable chil-

dren struggling with extreme poverty to dream, create and experience success in school and life. With more than 216,000 students in the Central Florida area currently living at or below the poverty line, A Gift For Teaching’s work is crucial to creating a better future for not only our children, but the community as a whole. To date, AGFT has distributed 115 mil$

lion worth of school supplies to teachers in Central Florida, and a whopping 69,000

Jane Thompson, president of A Gift For Teaching, hand delivers a Yoobi classroom pack filled with supplies to excited students at a local elementary school.

of these two initiatives, AGFT provided an

a better future for themselves. AGFM has

additional $1.6 million more in supplies to

assembled some of the finest string music

8,300 more teachers.

educators in Central Florida to mentor stu-

worth of supplies daily. Along with its high distribution, much of what makes A Gift For Teaching unique are its various programs designed with educators’ conve-

School SmARTS: Art supplies and curriculum are often the first things slashed in today’s tight school budgets, so School SmARTS was created to integrate art into

nience and classroom enrichment in mind.

low-income classrooms to enhance learn-

Pencil Boy Programs: In addition to the

nents; “Aunt Winnie’s Art Corner,” within

physical free store, where eligible teachers can shop monthly, AGFT has two other supply distribution methods: Pencil Boy Express — The Mobile Free Store and Pencil Boy Online. AGFT’s iconic “Pencil Boy” mascot, featured on all branding, is the inspiration for the name. Pencil Boy Express travels to high-need schools in the farthest reaches of Orange County so teachers can

ing. The program has two primary compoAGFT’s Free Store, provides teachers with basic quality art supplies as well as art lesson kits. In collaboration with Orange County Public Schools’ arts administrator, packaged art lessons and curriculum that cover skills such as drawing, water coloring, collage making and printmaking are given to the teachers after a three-hour

dents on a musical journey from third grade through high school. Using a combination of after-school, weekend and summer programming, AGFM has one of the most comprehensive string music education programs in the state of Florida, and has been able to reach nearly 8,000 urban youth since inception. This year, A Gift For Teaching turns 20 years old, and celebrations are planned throughout the year. To commemorate being founded in 1998, AGFT’s signature Back-to-School Blast! event will be totally ’90s themed. At the fundraiser, guests will enjoy bangin’ food and specialty cocktails, a super sweet silent auction,

curriculum workshop.

and a Ticket to Ride drawing of chance for a

cil Boy Online, teachers unable to make it

A Gift For Music: A Gift For Music (AGFM)

School Blast! takes place on Friday, April 13,

to a physical location can “shop” for their

was founded in 1999 with the purpose of

from 7 – 11pm at Rosen Shingle Creek (9939

items online and receive their orders at

using music as a vehicle for the under-

Universal Blvd., Orlando). For more informa-

their schools at no cost to them. As a result

served urban youth in Orlando to envision

tion, visit back2schoolblast.com

shop during their break time. Through Pen-

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20,000 voucher from Off Lease Only. Back-to-