REAL ESTATE (salesand purchasesthroughourbrokerage AdamsRealty,LLC)
“I have attended a few seminars on Estate Planning, and I was aware that I needed to start this process sooner than later. I was fortunate to attend an Estate Planning seminar presented by Suren Adams. I was very impressed with her professionalism, her impeccable knowledge of the subject matter, and the ability to present the information in an understandable language. Suren’snoteworthy credentials speak for themselves, and her service costs are comparable to others in the area.I would highly recommend her service to anyone who is interested in the Estate Planning process. I guarantee that once you attend Suren’sseminar,you will not delay in starting the process today!”
- C.H.(Upper Marlboro, MD)
“Mrs.Adams: We want to thank you very much for the diligent work your office hasdone in finalizingour Trust package, to include notifications to our investment organizations and trustees.We could not be happier for the great legal work you and your staff has done for us.Again, many thanks for bringing everything together in our Trust.”
PUBLISHER
Veronica Fountain
Veronica@simplymagazines.net
CONTRIBUTING
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Trans4motionphotography and Akua Tracey Marlene
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Lauryn Forbes and Alyson Turner
ADVERTISING DIRECTOR
Info@simplymagazines.net
15
10 20 22 08 31 36 39
Publisher FROM THE
Is That You, Spring?
We had a few false alarms, but I think spring might have actually (finally) arrived. Maybe this is the part where I knock on wood to avoid another USO (unexplained snow occurrence).
I guess no matter how it feels outside by the time you read this, it is “official” per the April 2026 Spring Simply Bowie Publication and this is a jam packed editorial Publication. January was a horrible Ice Storm and productions were pushed back, so definitely spend extra time with this issue.
There are Featured Articles on some amazing companies with dynamic Products and Services. To name a few; Wiseman Funeral Home, Century 21 Realtor, Adams Law Office, and this Issue is covering Women in Leadership, Euniesha Davis. New Dentist Alert - Calcium Dental located in Brandywine, MD and spring into new spring products from that tough winter skin….Cocoa Luxe.
The Spring Issue is our Wedding Issue, Home Remodeling, and Travel Destinations in which Bermudan was selected this year!!
Down here on Earth, this month also marks the 4th Annual Readers Choice Awards VOTING LIVE have started. Visit the website SimplyMagazines.Net and then click on tab Readers Choice Awards and then scroll through over 30 categories to find your category to VOTE. Copy/Paste the URL to send to colleagues, family, and friends to VOTE for your Company. The winners will be REVEALED October 9th, 2026.
I love Spring Time because it sparks the beginning of outdoor exercising, power walking, riding my bicycle, driving to local beaches such as Rehoboth Beach , and my favorite magazine Simply Bowie Publication. We hope you enjoy this issue as much as we do!
Publisher/Founder Simply Magazines + Digital
CHOOSING CREMATION
& WHAT IT MEANS
As the taboo surrounding cremation continues to loosen its grip from our consciousness, it has become a clear choice for many. As a funeral care provider, I have noticed its surge in my practice. For some people the choice of cremation is purely one of personal preference. For many families however, the decision is based solely on their economic ability. In any event cremation is no longer a one-dimensional option. A decade ago, the cremation option was very cut & dry. It left many family members bewildered and void of any real closer.
Please allow me to shed some light on Cremation and the options now offered to you and your family.
FIRST OPTION
The first option is called DIRECT CREMATION- it is the most cost effective however, it can sometimes have a devasting effect on many families because of its limitations. The definition of Direct Cremation is exactly what it sounds like. We bring your loved one into our care, we obtain permission from the next of kin to cremate, at that time a positive identification is made and then we
cremate. There are no visitations, rites, or ceremony with this choice.
SECOND OPTION
The second option is like the first, however the family has decided to honor the deceased through a MEMORIAL SERVICE. There is generally a memorial table erected in honor of your loved one. The table is draped in your loved one’s favorite color. It will usually contain memorabilia like family pictures, hobby items, flowers, urns and more. There is usually a eulogy, prayers, reflections from family & friends and songs much like a traditional service however the body is not present.
THIRD OPTION
The third option is the most popular to date. It is identical to a TRADITIONAL FUNERAL with CREMATION after the service. Your loved one is preserved through embalming, dressed casketed and groomed. There is a visitation/viewing period, a formal funeral service with the body present and a rental casket. However, instead of going to the cemetery after the funeral service cremation occurs. This practice offers maximum closer for families. It also eliminates the additional cemetery cost.
FOURTH OPTION
The fourth practice is a relatively new one. This
trail offering is called The FAMILY HOUR. It allows up to 20 family members and friends a chance to visit for a period of one hour. Wiseman Funeral Home is committed to offerings that aim to meet your family needs. We offer this fourth practice on a case-by-case basis. There are circumstances that may pose restrictions which would prevent the execution of this offering.
With all the above options cost is involved. Some of course are more economical than others.
No matter what your choice, be it earth burial, cremation or memorial services, it is always a good idea to pre-plan. We know that death happens. It occurs due to sickness, accident, or old age. You can be prepared.
a partnership. “We come into this as a team,” she explains.“I take my clients’ stress personally. That’s why I work diligently to ensure they are well informed, and confident in their journey. Communication, reassurance, and consistency helps guide every step of the process. I make sure they stay calm and let them know we are in this together.”
That long-term mindset is especially clear in her work with first-time buyers and clients building generational wealth. She is honest about the realities of the process while remaining fully committed to seeing it through. “I don’t lie to them,” she says. “It is a process. There are going to be some high times and low times. I’m here to work with you through it all.”
Instead, she leans in working with clients on their budgets, strengthening their credit, and building a strategy that moves them forward. Her support often includes weekly or biweekly check-ins, practical budgeting guidance, and real accountability. “We go on money diets,” she explains. “I even created the Credit to Close™ Handbook and Workbook to educate, equip, and help them track their progress step by step so they’re not guessing, they’re preparing.”
For Jones, the goal is not speed. It is sustainability. “I’ve worked with clients for over a year to help them get in position to buy,” she says. “Through this journey, if they remember anything about working with me, I hope it’s this: ‘She stood with me through every challenge and never let me quit.”
Legacy, for Bonita, is not something she hopes to build one day. It is something she is actively living. It is present, intentional, and generational. Her daughter, Kayla, works alongside her everyday as her assistant, a partnership that carries deep personal and professional meaning.
One of Bonita Jones’ impactful contributions to her real estate practice is her Credit to Close™ program, a structured approach designed to help her clients prepare for homeownership.“I don’t walk away if they’re denied at their first pre-approval,” she says. “That’s just the starting point.”
“My daughter is the foundation of my life,” she says. “She is the WHY in every goal I set, every late night I push through, and every vision I’m determined to see fulfilled.”
For Bonita, teaching her daughter, mentoring and creating opportunities that elevate others is not accidental. It is a continuation of the values she was raised with. Legacy, in her world, is built through action, example, and ownership.
That same unwavering mindset fuels her work across real estate, nonprofit leadership, and mentorship; most notably through The Blossoming Club, the youth-centered nonprofit she reopened in 2012 to support families in local communities and to build our next generation of leaders.
Today, as a REALTOR®, licensed in Maryland, with CENTURY 21 New Millennium, Bonita brings together creativity, structure, faith, and fierce commitment to her clients’ success. Her message to anyone feeling unsure about taking the next step is simple and direct.
“From Credit to Close, I’ve got you. That is my motto. If you have any questions I am open 24/7 to answer them. Just make the call.”
Get in touch with Bonita at 240-692-3929, via email bonita.jones@c21nm.com, or visit her website at bonitajones.c21nm.com
When you sit in Dr. Diondre Venable’s chair, you’re not just another appointment on the schedule. You are a vital part of a puzzle, as he describes it. One that represents your overall oral health and how it supports your wellbeing. Every detail matters, and every decision is made with care, intention, and the full picture of your health in mind.
At Calcium Dental in Brandywine, Dr. Venable has built a practice rooted in clarity, education, and trust. His approach is simple but powerful.
“I started Calcium Dental with the vision of providing my patients with a complete understanding of their oral health.” Dr. Venable tells us. “I’ve seen too many situations where patients weren’t told the whole truth or didn’t have the whole picture. It is my priority to ensure that every patient understands the state of their oral health.”
This commitment to transparency guides everything at Calcium Dental, from the way Dr. Venable consults with patients to the advanced technology in the treatment rooms.
A Passion That Started Young
For Dr. Venable, dentistry was not a backup plan. It was a calling.
“I have had quite a few dental procedures done. When I was a kid my dentist let me use a mirror to see what was going on. He was very thorough in his explanations, ‘Here’s what it looks like. Here’s what you are going to feel. Here’s what you shouldn’t feel.’ [Around 10 years old], I shadowed a dentist for a week through the National Urban League program in my hometown and I thought it was really cool.”
That early exposure to transparency and hands-on learning shaped how he practices today. He remembers what it felt like to be a curious young patient. Now, he brings that same clarity to those in his care.
Expertise Refined Through Service and Experience
Dr. Venable’s career took on new depth during his military service. After completing dental school at Meharry Medical College, in Nashville, TN, Dr. Venable joined the United States Army. He then completed his residency at Fort Carson in Col-
orado, and went on to gain advanced clinical experience that continues to influence his work.
"My time in the Army gave me a new perspective on dentistry and the confidence to carry out complex treatment plans,” he says
His dedication to service not only sharpened his diagnostic skills but also reinforced the importance of seeing the whole patient, not just the immediate concern.
Seeing the Total Picture
Dr. Venable’s training spans multiple disciplines, from prosthodontics and endodontics to cosmetic dentistry and extractions. That broad foundation allows him to step back and think about the patient long term.
“My extensive training allows me to see the full picture,” Dr. Venable explains. “Many people don’t realize that oral health and overall well-being are closely connected. By paying close attention to each patient, we can sometimes spot underlying health concerns. This awareness also helps me create thoughtful treatment plans and clearly explain them to patients. Prioritizing their well-being above all else is at the heart of every-
Credit: Akua Tracey Marlene
thing I do.”
“I speak to my patients one-on-one. I ask them what makes them anxious.Though I do not offer sedation, I’ve been able to put people more at ease by explaining how their dental procedure is supposed to go,” Dr. Venable says, “That is the benefit of having a dentist who has had their own procedures. When you are able to educate people about what will happen, their anxiety lessens.”
He believes communication is not optional. It is essential.
“You should be able to ask your provider questions and know what to expect. I think a lot of bad experiences at the dentist are because people were afraid or unsure about asking the doctor or dental team questions. I welcome and encourage both new and existing patients to schedule an appointment so we can address their concerns together and ensure they feel confident about their care.”
A True Dental Home in Brandywine
From updated technology to flexible financing options, Calcium Dental is designed to meet every patient's needs.
“Many people appreciate the feel and look of our office and the modern technology we offer. What truly sets us apart is that we treat the patient, not just the problem, and what sets me apart [as a dentist] is that we focus on every aspect of
a patient’s oral health. Our office provides multiple financing options and accepts most PPO insurances. As a full-service general dentistry practice, we offer a wide range of treatments to meet our patients’ needs.”
He also believes that every procedure, even the most routine, should look as good as it feels.
“When I was at Meharry Medical CollegeSchool of Dentistry, my professor said, ‘All den-
Credit: Akua Tracey Marlene
Credit: Akua Tracey Marlene
Credit: Akua Tracey Marlene
tistry is cosmetic so if I’m going to do something I want to make sure it looks good as well as feels good. The compliment from the patient isn’t ‘Those are nice crowns or veneers,’ the compliment is ‘I didn't know those were crowns or I didn’t know those were veneers.’ That stuck with me. I want the general public to see your teeth as your real, natural teeth.”
A Commitment to the Community
What matters most to Dr. Venable is progress, growth, and long term health.
“What I enjoy most is seeing my patients improve, especially those who are motivated to take charge of their oral health,” Dr. Venable says. “They get the necessary treatment, achieve a healthy mouth, and stay committed to maintaining it. Seeing that progress firsthand is incredibly rewarding.”
And his message to future patients is clear.
“I want all future patients to know that, at Calcium Dental, we’re committed to making it right for you. Our goal is to help you achieve not just your healthiest smile, but your healthiest self.”
ARTICLE BY: Lauryn Forbes PHOTOS BY: Ronnie Photo Squad
CocoaLuxe CocoaLuxe C
ocoaLuxe, a body care and home fragrance brand founded by Semoine Boyer, is dedicated to helping people transform everyday routines into intentional moments of self-care. While the brand’s focus today is on creating products that elevate personal rituals, its journey began more than a decade ago with a candle business and a personal motivation.
While the brand’s focus today is on creating products that elevate personal rituals, its journey began more than a decade ago with a candle business and a personal motivation. Boyer launched her business in 2014 as a candle brand, but shortly after, she paused to focus on her family. After several years, Boyer returned to her entrepreneurial vision with a renewed perspective. In 2018, she relaunched the business with an expanded focus on body care and home fragrances. By 2019, CocoaLuxe was actively participating in markets and connecting directly with customers.
The inspiration behind the brand grew out of Boyer’s own life. Balancing a demanding career while also managing family responsibilities left her searching for ways to slow down and recharge. “Most people say they start a business because they see a need in the market. For me, it was both selfish and unselfish reasons. I started CocoaLuxe because I saw a need in my own life, and after a while, I realized there were other women who felt the same way.”
Creating her own products became part of that process. Boyer began using specialty ingredients and custom fragrance blends to design spa-like experiences at home. “I've been making body care since my teens, and as an adult, I use the products to create my own spa day or self-care experience with ingredients that are plant-derived, that are
non-toxic, and non-carcinogenic, especially when it comes to the candles,” she explains.
Fragrance plays a particularly important role in CocoaLuxe’s offerings. “My fragrances aren't for the faint of heart, and I tell people that all the time. So if you're looking for something that's light, CocoaLuxe is not going to be it. The products are very bold yet sophisticated fragrances,” she says. Boyer says fragrance inspiration can come from anywhere, whether traveling or simply exploring new environments. “I come up with fragrance blends, I come up with, I guess, product ideas just based on my everyday experiences. Whether I'm at the grocery store, you know, the flower section, or traveling.”
While CocoaLuxe primarily serves women, the brand’s customer base continues to evolve. Boyer notes that her core audience tends to fall between the ages of 35 and 55, though fragrance preferences often influence who gravitates toward certain products. In recent years, CocoaLuxe has also expanded its reach to include male customers. As interest grew, she began developing fragrance blends and product offerings designed specifically with men in mind.
Through CocoaLuxe, Boyer aims to redefine self-care as an intentional ritual—one that blends fragrance, skincare, and atmosphere into a luxurious everyday experience. “My focus and my mission is to help people transform their self-care routine,” she says.
As CocoaLuxe continues to grow, Boyer has expanded beyond direct-to-consumer sales. The brand now develops private-label fragrance blends and products for clients to sell under their own
brands. CocoaLuxe also maintains several retail partnerships across the DMV and is actively pursuing expansion into other U.S. markets, including California, where Boyer is originally from. The company is also exploring wholesale and corporate gifting opportunities.
Looking ahead, Boyer is also planning to introduce experiential workshops that allow customers to engage directly in the product creation process. These curated experiences will allow participants to learn how to create their own body oils, scrubs, and other self-care products.
Today, CocoaLuxe continues to grow as a lifestyle brand rooted in intentional living, offering products, experiences, and community designed to help people slow down, recharge, and elevate their everyday rituals.
CocoaLuxe products can currently be found through several retail partnerships, pop-up experiences, and marketplaces throughout the Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia region. To learn more about CocoaLuxe or explore its products, visit the brand online or follow along on social media at @cocoaluxehs.
Why
EstatePlanning
Avoid costly probate delays and protect your loved ones with help from one of Prince George’s premier estate planning law firms, Adams Law Office, LLC.
When it comes to securing your legacy and protecting what matters most, having a clear, tailored estate plan is one of the smartest moves you can make. Attorney Suren Adams, of Adams Law Office, highlights the importance of protecting the assets that you have worked for while leaving a legacy for the next generation. With a focus on helping individuals and families avoid the delays, costs, and complications of probate, the Adams Law Office team takes a proactive approach to planning for the future.
Suren tells us that most people reach out after going through the probate process (after a loss) and want to avoid that process for their own families. People also reach out for assistance when they are faced with probate. “It is a lengthy court process that can be extremely costly. We will assist clients through probate, but ideally we start by planning ahead of a tragedy. When you prepare your estate plan, you are effectively structuring your estate and assets to be handled after you are gone.”
When it comes to estate planning, many people are surprised to learn that a Trust is something that they should be considering. “We do alot of Trust planning for families of varying incomes. It is definitely something to consider if you have children, own real estate, or want to be specific about how people will inherit from your estate. Without a plan in place, your family will end up in an expensive and time consuming probate situation that could have been avoided. Trusts are great tools to help structure assets for your children and family. Most people think that a Will is the only document you need, but without a properly structured estate plan that includes a Trust, a Will by itself can still lead to probate,” Suren says. For the team at Adams Law Office, understanding what the client wants to convey to the next generation is crucial. “Our secret sauce is connection. We ensure clients are including the things they truly want for their plans, and the only way to do that is to learn our clients’ goals, needs, and their specific family situation. We use this knowledge to determine our course of action. We set up
"When you prepare your estate plan, you are effectively structuring your estate and assets to be handled after you are gone.
--Attorney Suren Adams
Credit: Akua Tracey Marlene
a planning session, and we have the client provide us information about their family which we review before meeting,” Suren tells us, “We structure the planning session by introducing ourselves and sharing a bit about why we do what we do so that the client gets to know us and they feel comfortable with us. This helps us stand apart from others in the industry; building upon that relationship. We ask, ‘What are your current goals? What are you trying to accomplish, and what do you want to make sure happens at the end of day?’”
Suren and her team want clients to feel a sense of peace. “When a client leaves our office after a signing ceremony, they should have the weight of the world lifted off their shoulders. That is how we know we have done a good job. Our clients want to know that they have taken care of
their families and our goal is to make sure we have done that for them,” Suren says.
Starting the process may feel daunting, but it is important to read reviews of the law firm you choose and to go with one that you feel a connection with. “We put testimonials on our website, but prospective clients should read Google reviews to see for themselves. Then, speak to friends, families, and neighbors about their own experiences with this process. We pride ourselves on what people have said about us online. We strive to provide a premier level of service, and to be consistent with each and every client,” Suren says, “You have to look for someone who is providing consistent service every time. You also want to make a connection with your lawyer and feel comfortable knowing that the firm really wants to care for your family because you are more than just a fee.”
Before you even book a consultation, it is im-
Pictured: Attorney Suren Adams of Adams Law Office
Credit: Akua Tracey Marlene
portant to learn what you can about the estate planning process. A good place to start is by reviewing the Adams Law Office online webinar. It is a very user-friendly way to get the foundation you need before even speaking with a lawyer. “It is really valuable to get that information ahead of time to ensure you end up with a good estate plan. One of the worst things to do is put it off because a complete estate plan is less expensive than probate and can help your family avoid that costly, lengthy process,” Suren says.
In a time where things often feel chaotic, estate planning offers a level of control within your sphere of influence. “You have worked hard to attain the things in your life, and in order to protect your family, you need an estate plan that will preserve your legacy.”
To reach Suren Adams and her team, visit AdamsLawOffice.com, or call (301) 805-5892.
"
My desire is to continue to make positive change for residents,.. It is not just an idea for me. I have done those things in the county and will continue to do so.
EUNIESHA DAVIS:
A Community Builder Running for District 4
From Chester, Pennsylvania to Prince George’s County leadership, Euniesha Davis brings a lifetime of community advocacy, public service, and vision to her campaign for County Council.
ARTICLE BY: Alyson Turner
Euniesha Davis has spent much of her career working behind the scenes to make government programs more accessible and more effective for the community she serves. Now, after years of community engagement, nonprofit leadership, and public service, she is stepping forward to run for the District 4 seat on the Prince George’s County Council.
For Euniesha Davis, the decision to run is rooted in both professional experience and personal perspective. She grew up in Chester, Pennsylvania, in a household led by a single mother who emphasized the power of education and perseverance.
“I am originally from Chester, PA, born and raised there,” Davis said. “Raised by a single mom, I grew up with a younger brother who kept me honest at every turn.”
She describes a childhood shaped by both challenges and determination.
“Chester, PA had a lot of struggles like any city, but my mom always made sure we had enough,” she said.
Education became the foundation of opportunity. Euniesha graduated as valedictorian of Chester High School and was the first person in her family to attend college. She attended Indiana University of Pennsylvania, where she studied
computer science and experienced the cultural shift of leaving a predominantly Black city to attend a university where she was often in the minority. During her time there, she also helped establish a new chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. (Tau Beta Chapter) on campus.
“I chartered the 924th chapter along with 11 other women,” she said. “We worked hard to establish this chapter on campus to support minority students.”
After graduating, Euniesha pursued a Master’s degree in communications design from the University of Baltimore and briefly taught algebra at Forest Park High School before entering the corporate world. Early roles at BBC America and McNeil Technologies allowed her to develop skills in marketing and communications, but she soon realized she wanted work that was closer to community impact. That realization led her to the United Way of the National Capital Area, where she developed the child wellness initiative known as Fun, Fly & Fit.
“At that time, DC was number one for childhood obesity,” she said. [The question was], “How do we get these kids working out, eating healthy, and moving with their families?”
Through partnerships with schools and community organizations, the initiative introduced physical activity and enrichment programs for
students in after school settings.
“When we brought these programs to the schools, a parent said to us, ‘Thank you United Way for coming to us. We had felt forgotten,’” Euniesha recalled.
When Davis became a mother, it reshaped how she thought about both work and service. After years of building community programs, she stepped back briefly when her son was born, a moment that reinforced her belief that family must remain central to leadership and decision making which carries to her campaign for District 4. “I worked with United Way for many years until my son was born,” she said, reflecting on that turning point in her career.
Over the years, Davis continued to build a career centered on service. She led program development at The Links, Incorporated, secured millions of dollars in funding for community pro-
grams, and eventually joined Prince George’s County Government as Executive Director of the Office of Community Relations.
The role gave her a firsthand view of how local government functions and where it can improve. Now, as a candidate for County Council, Davis believes that experience matters. “We vote officials in. We need a county council that is not afraid to challenge the status quo,” she said. “I understand the red tape and how to cut through it.”
When she arrived in late 2018, she immediately saw an opportunity to improve how residents connected with their government. Under her leadership, the county’s 311 call center underwent a dramatic transformation.
“When I first started, residents would call in and it could take five minutes to answer a call,” Davis said. “My operators would answer in 30 seconds,” she said. “I was able to promise that when you call with a concern, you would reach someone in the [Prince George’s County] government.”
The improvements were measurable. Call abandonment rates dropped from 19 percent to just 2 percent, and the system became an award winning model for customer service in local government.
“The call center is my legacy,” Davis said. “It is important to leave a legacy and [have programs that] go beyond my time there.”
Her office also played a major role during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic and her team became known for their hands-on community presence.
“We established an emergency rental assistance program and resource center hotline during COVID-19 within three days,” she said. “We also became known as the red jackets and red shirts,” she said. “You might not know us by name, but you knew we were coming. We would provide the response and the follow up.”
Today, Davis works nationally with the AARP Foundation as National Director of Programs, helping adults over 65 return to the workforce through federally funded employment initiatives. Even with a national role, Davis says her focus remains local. Running for District 4, she believes that Prince George’s County needs leadership
Photo Modified: Background Added
willing to address the issues residents see every day.
Today, that perspective carries into her campaign. As both a public servant and a parent, Davis says she thinks often about the everyday issues families face in their neighborhoods. “My son recently asked, ‘When you win, are we going to get some sidewalks?” she said. For Davis, those small but meaningful concerns reflect the heart of local government. “My desire is to continue to make positive change for residents,” she said. “It is not just an idea for me. I have done those things in the county and will continue to do so.”
Education is one of the areas she says requires immediate attention. Davis believes schools should provide safe and functional learning environments while also ensuring teachers have the resources they need to support students. One example of that approach is the ClassAct program
she helped develop, which connected businesses with classrooms to support teachers who often spend their own money on supplies.
“Our teachers are spending thousands of dollars each year,” Davis said. “With the ClassAct program, I worked with Coca-Cola and Staples to get resources to classrooms. We ensured teachers received needed resources to start and finish the year off strong.”
If elected, Davis says she would prioritize directing additional funding toward education and academic support.
“As a county council member, I want to focus on direct funding for resources to our teachers and our students who learn differently or who need extra support to be able to learn,” she said.
Workforce development is another key part of her platform. Davis believes that while college is valuable for many students, it should not be the
only pathway to success.
“Everyone doesn’t want to go to college or are unable to attend due to the affordability of college,” she said. “I want our students to have more options to access jobs. We need trade positions and an early pipeline so that our students can come out certified.”
Her priorities also extend to issues affecting older residents. With a 93-year-old grandmother still living in Pennsylvania, Davis says she sees firsthand how critical accessible services can be for seniors.
“The things that truly matter to our seniors include helping our home care professionals, supporting our caregivers, and providing affordable and reliable transportation to medical appointments,” she said.
Economic development is another area she believes deserves renewed focus in District 4. While the district includes thriving neighborhoods, Davis says residents should also have more options for shopping, dining, and entertainment close to home.
“We have million dollar homes, but we don’t have million dollar experiences,” she said. “Residents and visitors alike should have options in our district and businesses that want to open here.”
For Davis, the campaign is about continuing
the work she has already started while building a stronger future for District 4. Through community engagement, education initiatives, and economic development, she hopes to bring both practical experience and a community-centered perspective to the council.
“I’m not coming in and saying I have to throw the baby out with the bath water,” she said. “But I need to be a strong advocate for people.”
Kitchen Layout Mistakes Common 10 & How to Avoid Them
ARTICLE BY: Georgia Madden
Choosing beautiful finishes and fixtures for your new kitchen is one thing, but if you get the layout wrong, it won’t function as well as you want it to. Houzz asked three design experts to reveal the 10 most common layout errors that kitchen renovators make and what to do to avoid them.
We also searched Houzz photos for designs that successfully avoided these 10 missteps to achieve kitchens that look great and function beautifully.
1
Inadequate Circulation Space
Failing to allow enough circulation space can make a kitchen feel cramped and restrict the number of people who can comfortably use the space at the same time, says Jenefer Gordon, principal at interior design firm Eat Bathe Live. “It causes even more issues when your kitchen doubles as a thoroughfare. A lack of space can also
make it difficult to open appliances such as the fridge and dishwasher,” she says.
Solution: To provide adequate circulation, try to have about 4 feet of space between kitchen countertops, Gordon says. Allow a little more room if there is a thoroughfare leading through the kitchen. “In a small kitchen, [39 inches] would be the minimum amount of space between countertops, but aim for more if you can,” she says.
2
Not Planning Around the Workflow
“A good kitchen workflow is essential. If you don’t have one, your kitchen will be inefficient, and you can end up running backwards and forwards between the different parts of your kitchen every time you cook, wash or prep,” Gordon says.
Credit: MOTIF Design Solutions
Solution: In the planning stages, carefully consider how you use your kitchen, she says. She suggests increasing functionality by including storage for spices and oils near the cooking zone and storing cutlery and dishes near the dishwasher. “You’ll find many smart solutions on the market, including wide drawers and tailored inserts that facilitate highfunctioning storage,” Gordon says.
3
Not Measuring Appliances
Lack of planning when it comes to appliances can lead to excessive protrusion from oversize refrigerators. “This can affect the ability to open cabinets and other appliances in your kitchen, and reduce circulation space,” Gordon says.
Not measuring small appliances like microwaves, blenders and food processors can be an issue too. Without a proper home, they can end up sitting out on the counter and creating clutter, she says.
Solution: Select appliances well in advance, checking the dimensions and the way appliances open to ensure that your kitchen layout can accommodate them in concealed, tailored storage, Gordon says. This also applies to pots and pans.
4
Poor Lighting Placement
If you don’t put the right light fixtures over your countertops, you will end up prepping, cooking and cleaning up in the shadows, says designer Naomi Findlay.
“Another common lighting mistake is prioritizing aesthetics over functionality. Pretty pendants are beautiful, but if they don’t shine enough light over your work surfaces, they will not be practical,” she says.
Solution: Findlay recommends positioning lighting slightly in front of you rather than directly overhead or behind you. Installing downlights, pendant lights and sconces on separate circuits makes it easier to control your lighting levels and atmosphere, she says. And don’t forget to choose bulbs that emit sufficient light, so you can see what you’re doing when you’re chopping and cooking.
Credit: FACTOR Design Build
Forgetting About Function
When planning your remodel, make sure you put your kitchen’s busiest areas — the sink, stove and fridge — in practical locations that are relevant to one another while allowing enough space for people to use and access them comfortably, Findlay says.
When choosing cabinetry, make sure the doors won’t block your workflow when they’re open, she says. “The last thing you want is your fridge and cupboard doors banging into each other every time you open them!”
Solution: Plan your kitchen layout as far in advance as possible, and choose your appliances before you start looking at cabinetry, Findlay says. “This will allow you to fit your units around your appliances, rather than the other way around, giving you a seamless look that’s both smart and space-efficient.”
Tip: Think about how many people live in your home and will be using the kitchen at one time, she says. If it’s going to get crowded, you may have crammed too many elements into the kitchen layout and may want to consider scaling back.
Wasted Space on a Kitchen Island
Kitchen islands are great for increasing your prep and storage space but will work only if you have the room, Findlay says. If your kitchen is small, an island can be a waste of space.
“Placing an island in the wrong spot is another recipe for disaster,” she says. “A poorly positioned island can obstruct the flow of traffic to and from the sink, refrigerator, stove and primary workstations, creating a bottleneck in your kitchen.”
Solution: Choose an island only if your kitchen can accommodate it or specify a narrow one. Findlay suggests having about 40 inches on both sides of the island for good traffic flow. “Deciding how big or small your island unit should be will depend on what it needs to house and the proportions of your kitchen,” she says. “I would recommend a minimum width of [about 47 inches] for a kitchen island. But if you don’t plan on installing a sink or a stovetop in it, you could go as narrow as [about 24 inches] in width.”
Credit: Gatling Design
Credit: Hollyman Design
Inadequate Space Between the Sink and the Stove
The area between the sink and the stove is the main food preparation area, so although there are no set guidelines, you’ll want a decent expanse of countertop space there, says Cherie Barber, owner of Renovating for Profit, which offers online instruction in remodeling.
Solution: When planning your kitchen, make sure the layout meets the practical day-to-day needs of the kitchen user, she says. Key Measurements to Help You Design Your Kitchen
Poorly Positioned Cabinet Doors and Drawers
Cabinet doors and drawers can end up blocking doorways and walkways when they’re opened, Barber warns.
Solution: “Planning is key,” she says. “Before you commit to a layout, think about how and where all the elements in your kitchen will open, including cupboards, drawers, the fridge and dishwasher, and how people will move through the space.”
Get more kitchen inspiration
Credit: Hollyman Design
Credit:Jackson Design Build
Credit: Jennifer Gonzalez Photography
Not Maximizing Vertical Wall Space
In a small kitchen, every bit of space counts, and your walls offer valuable storage real estate, Barber says.
Solution: “Taking your cupboards right up to the ceiling will maximize your storage potential in a compact kitchen,” she says. “If you don’t like the idea of rows of closed-door cupboards, you can always mix it up with open shelving.”
Tip: If your wall cabinets are positioned over a cooktop, minimum clearance rules apply, Barber says. The minimum requirements can vary for electric and gas cooktops, and range from 2 to 3 feet, she says.
Assuming You Need a New Layout
“I’d never automatically dismiss the existing layout of a kitchen,” Barber says. “It’s often planned that way for very practical reasons, such as placement of doors and windows and the most logical traffic flow.”
Solution: A tweak to the layout, such as making it open plan or adding a breakfast bar or an island, may be all that’s needed, she says. This can save money because you won’t have to move electrical and plumbing systems.
“If you’re designing a kitchen layout from scratch, address the practical considerations first: How many people will be using the kitchen on a regular basis? Do you do a lot of entertaining?” she says. “This will help you work out the kitchen’s size and function.”
Then consider how the work triangle — cooktop, sink and fridge — will best fit your layout, she says. Allow enough space between the three points of the triangle, so you’re not walking yards between them every time you use your kitchen.
Credit: Stonehill Cabinetry
Credit: AG&Co. Interior Design
A Guide to Quiet Vacationing in Bermuda
Whether you’re working or unwinding in paradise (or both), quiet vacationing is about an under-the-radar getaway that brings a refreshing change of scenery and pace. Disappear into the triangle, where beauty runs deep and Bermuda keeps your secrets.
Just a quick flight and one time zone away from the US East Coast, Bermuda is a quiet island hideaway within easy reach. Sublime natural beauty is a defining trait, with pink-sand beaches, pristine waters, lush gardens, and secluded parks forming the perfect backdrop for a peaceful, crowd-free retreat. Layer on cultured towns, ele-
vated cuisine, and modern amenities, and you can be as connected or as unplugged as you wish. Quite simply, Bermuda was made for quiet vacationing.
Follow this guide to uncover Bermuda’s hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path activities that promise an easy escape from everyday life.
DISCOVER SOLITUDE AT SMALLER BOUTIQUE HOTELS
Immerse yourself in a world of calm and comfort at one of Bermuda’s smaller boutique hotels. Beyond offering a serene setting, the island’s ac-
commodations are perfectly tailored for remote work with strong Wi-Fi and great workspace setups. Breathtaking views are never far, and island life is always close at hand.
From the moment you arrive, feel at home in your own private oasis at the Rosedon Hotel. This quiet and intimate escape, located in the heart of Hamilton, provides stunning views of the island’s natural vegetation. Enjoy solitude on your very own covered terrace overlooking the hotel’s tropical gardens or relax by the freshwater pool under a cabana.
Framed by palm trees and lush gardens, the Royal Palms Hotel feels like an escape from the ordinary. Stay in this hidden retreat and you’ll forget you’re just ten minutes away from downtown Hamilton’s popular boutiques and restaurants. With amenities like evening Wine Hour, a secluded pool and complimentary e-bikes, you’ll never want to leave paradise.
Bask in privacy and peace at the Ledgelets Cottage Colony, a Bermuda sanctuary where you’ll be treated like family by the Ledgelets, who have been welcoming guests since officially opening the grounds in 1948. Book the Pool House for what feels like your own personal utopia.
Choose both solitude and adventure while staying at the Leamington Caves property. Take in the expansive views while relaxing on one of the many porches and patios or on top of the pool deck. Plus, you’ll get exclusive access to explore Bermuda’s largest private natural caves.
PRACTICE MINDFUL MEDITATION
Find your inner peace and connect with nature. Whether you’re exploring park grounds or spotting wildlife, let the island’s natural wonders take you on a transformative journey.
Tap into the island’s deeply rooted history and pay a visit to the 300-year-old Southlands National Park. Sit under the shade of one of the thirteen species of trees that can’t be found anywhere else on the island. As you drift into a state of serenity, appreciate the beauty of the gardens and ponds.
At Cooper’s Island Nature Reserve, you’ll be able to bird watch on nature trails and spot other
animals like giant land crabs in the shallow-water beaches. Breathe in the fresh air while taking in panoramic views of the island on top of the wildlife observation tower.
FIND YOUR ZEN
The serenity of the island makes finding moments of meditation a breeze. Whether you’re enjoying the calm, quiet crystal-clear waters or immersing yourself in the history and culture of Bermuda, you’ll uncover a sense of tranquility.
Lose yourself in the contemplative stillness of Bermuda’s art museums, admiring the local talent. View the island’s national art collection at the Bermuda National Gallery or admire the rotating artwork of local artists at the Bermuda Society of Artsinside the City Hall and Arts Center.
Feel grounded and connected with yoga on the beach with VeryRareYoga. Whether you’re using it as a restorative practice or a beginner looking to find your flow, the crystal-clear waters make for a tranquil time.
Glide across turquoise waters on a paddleboard or kayak and find the perfect balance of relaxation
and physical activity. BDA Watersports offers guided tours or allows you to venture out on your own. The views create an ideal environment for meditating or reflecting.
FEED YOUR SOUL
Savour the flavours of the island and let each meal nourish the soul. From casual favourites to award-winning fine dining spots, you’ll find great food that fuels mind, body, and spirit.
Bermuda restaurants bring a taste of the island directly to your plate. Dine at Huckleberry, a popular farm-to-table restaurant in Hamilton that sources produce from its own orchards and gardens. Or try Village Pantry, where they serve locally grown vegetables and local fish in support of the farming and fishing community. If you’re in Bermuda September through March, try fresh spiny lobster – an island delicacy – at Lobster Pot Restaurant and Boathouse Bar or Coconuts.
Explore the Bermudian landscape while learning about edible and medicinal plants native to the island from founder and vegan chef, Doreen Williams-James. After working up an appetite from the Wild Herbs N Plants Tour, sample decadent plant-based dishes.
Book a truly unique cave spa treatment at Nature Spa at Grotto Bay. The natural sounds of dripping water from the mesmerizing cave will soothe your soul and body. You can also book other services like facials, massages and body wraps.
Take the stress out of planning a day exploring Bermuda. Island Tour Centre’s Hidden Gems Tour is a perfect mix of majestic scenery and thrilling adventures. After cliff jumping and cave swimming, end your tour with a locally made sweet treat and time spent on a secluded beach relaxing or snorkelling.
Elevate your dining experience without even leaving your stay. Plant Based Fuel BDA offers private dinner parties if you’re looking for exceptional service and flavourful vegan meals that wow both you and your guests.
Whether you plan to catch up on emails by pool or be fully immersed in relaxation day and night, island time is calling. Browse places to stay to find your perfect retreat, and check out deals and packages to enjoy quiet vacationing for less. Bermuda has never been more inviting.
WeddingExperts
Share the Latest Trends & Planning Tips 2026 & Beyond
Calling all 2026 brides and grooms!
Read these expert tips and trends from our Editors Circle.
From who to bring with you when shopping for the perfect wedding dress, to planning your pre- and post-wedding events, to choosing an overall design aesthetic that fits your personalities and the vibe of your venue, as well as how to enhance your guests' experience, brides and grooms have a lot to consider during the wedding-planning process.
While we always recommend hiring a wedding planner to help you organize the details of your big day, we understand that
many couples choose to plan their own weddings or gather advice from a number of other resources, which is why we're always sharing the expert advice of our Editors Circle members, who are among some of the nation's top wedding professionals.
Since wedding trends are constantly changing and brides and grooms have endless inspiration while planning their celebrations, look to these esteemed professionals, who have been in the industry for years, to know what to do and how to prepare for one of the biggest events of your life.
We invite you to read the latest trends, discover wedding-planning secrets, and uncover tips from wedding planners, bridal stylists, floral designers, and photographers on a number of topics featured in various issues of the magazine.
Take note of the advice showcased in the pages of our 2025 issues of Inside Weddings, and make these tips your own to fit your dream wedding. Happy planning!
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"If you’re a bride who loves the latest trends and wants a unique gown at a great price, trunk shows are a must! These exclusive events bring in a designer’s newest collection before it hits stores, offering brides the rare chance to try fresh styles and enjoy special pricing for a limited time."
