In recent years, there has been a huge change in the shopping landscape with online fast fashion retailers like Shein and Fashion Nova serving as an ultra-convenient way to get your hands on the latest trends for dirt cheap. But the reality of these places is that the quality is severely lacking, and your purchase will likely fall apart in the wash after one use. That’s why Bridget Quinn Stickline, owner of Green Spring Station’s beloved kids’ boutique Wee Chic, decided to open her neighboring sister store, Girlhero. She sees it as a place to offer young women quality fashion that will not only fit and be on-trend, but last for years to come. 

What inspired you to open Girlhero?
We were hearing from our client base at Wee Chic that there was a void in the market, and stores that used to service the high school- and college-aged girl had kind of disappeared. They had all been kind of grouped into the Forever 21 and fast fashion world, which really did not speak to the experiences and events that these girls were going to and how they were living their day-to-day life. So we saw an opportunity.  

How would you describe the Girlhero customer?
Our customer has a more elevated taste and sophisticated influences. She’s got homecoming, she’s rushing a sorority, she’s going to a nice dinner with friends, she’s going to Hunt Cup and music festivals. We are very immersed in the community and keep track of what events are happening at schools in the area and curate our selection for that.

For example, Notre Dame Prep has their “Gym Day,” which is a huge thing every year where each class gets colors, so we put together these great gift assortments in the colors of their classes. We track all of the dances closely, so that we have many options ready and in store. The great thing is, all of these customers aren’t new to us. These are people and families we’ve been dressing for a really long time, and it’s been so lovely to see these kids grow into women and have these new adventures. 

What are some lines that you carry?
We carry One Teaspoon, For Love and Lemons, Free People, and Free City, to name a few. We mix those very established brands with new brands that you don’t find everywhere, because to me that’s what makes shopping at a boutique so special. We have a number of women on our team who are our target customer, so they are a huge resource when buying. It’s really a collective effort and we are constantly getting new items in to keep things fresh. 

Finish this sentence: No outfit is complete without…
Confidence. When somebody comes out of a dressing room in something that they love, you can instantly see it. Their shoulders are back, their chin is up, and they feel good about themselves, and I think that is the most important thing—that you feel good in the outfit you are wearing. I also think that goes hand-in-hand with quality. If you are buying better quality pieces, they are going to fit you better.  

What’s your current favorite fashion trend?
The beautiful Italian influence that’s happening right now. Lots of rich blues, antique lemon prints, gorgeous floral prints, butter yellow, and really interesting textiles are going to be huge this spring and summer. And they just look beautiful in the store. Sometimes the industry can miss the mark with a color palette and that can be really hard on us buyers to navigate, but this season everything is prettier than the next and it makes our job very easy. 

What is your must-have item for spring?
This is universal for all seasons, but I think you have to have a really good pair of jeans. There are so many different styles and washes in the market right now, but I’m liking that kind of clean oversized, low-rise denim that pairs really well with a lot of different tops. 

Where can people follow Girlhero?
You can find us on Instagram and on TikTok that we update all the time with new products, styling ideas, and news on in-store events. We also launched our website in July so you can shop online as well.  

How did you come up with the name?
The name is actually inspired by my daughter. When she was little, we would read stories with strong female characters, and she would say, “Mom, it’s a girl hero.” And I just always loved that term. We wanted to promote the idea of independence, and your style is one of the earliest indicators of that. It’s really meant to represent a girl who is figuring out who she is. We want people to believe in being the hero of your own story.  

Recently, social media has been abuzz with videos of people indulging in what looks to be the most relaxing hair wash of their lives. It’s called a scalp spa. And now the trend has hit Baltimore. We sat down with Dawn Fitzgerald, owner of Fitz Hair Studio in Parkville, to talk about the service.

What is a scalp spa?
It’s a holistic service used to deep clean and nourish your scalp. The practice gained popularity in Japan before going viral on social media. The process uses massage, hair washing, various tools, and sometimes targeted treatments to cleanse the scalp and get rid of unwanted buildup. It’s a very Zen experience and is not only good for your physical health but your mental health as well. We also offer red light therapy during the service, which promotes circulation and can help with stress and anxiety, as well as sound therapy. It’s basically the shampoo portion—the best part of getting your hair done—times twenty.

What are the benefits?
The scalp spa can help with dryness, hair loss or thinning, psoriasis, eczema, and other skin conditions. The process uses hydro water therapy in a water-fall-like motion at different frequencies, which is what helps to stimulate the scalp. This stimulation of blood flow and new cell generation is what aids with new hair growth and thickening. It also helps with exfoliating the skin and the removal of environmental toxins that can be built up on the scalp or hair. It also promotes tension relief and can help with headaches. The treatment just really puts you in a relaxed state and can serve as a tremendous form of therapy and self-care.

What is the process like?
The service is typically an hour to an hour and half. We do the initial scalp analysis with a machine that gives the client a very easy, understandable visual of the hair and scalp before the treatment. Then we have them lie on a bed in their spa wrap like you would for a standard massage. We have a trolley cart of tools that we use—things like chopsticks, quartz, crystals, different brushes, etc. There is also some light shoulder and hand massage included and guests can request to use sound bowls, hot stones, or steam if wanted. Once the service is done, we have them sit under a dryer and they have their choice of refreshments and light snacks so they can relax even more.

How often should people visit the scalp spa?
Your spa tech can help you come up with a plan for how often to come in based on your desired results. Typically, that is about once a month, but most people notice a drastic difference after one visit. Other than that, people should treat themselves to the spa whenever they want. It’s really just a nice pampering experience overall.

WHAT YOU NEED:

A BRUSH UP: Come with freshly brushed hair so the service starts on time and you don’t waste any of your coveted relaxation time detangling it.

ONE DAY: Fitzgerald encourages clients to wait 24 hours before doing a regular shampoo at home so they can properly experience the benefits of the treatment.

A BIT OF SHADE: Bring a hat if it’s a sunny day; some products could contain oil, so avoid direct sunlight until you’re able to wash those out.

IN: Soft yellow.

OUT: Burgundy and camel of seasons past.

—Ray Mitchener, owner of Ruth Shaw

IN: Effortless, boho-inspired peasant blouse.

OUT: Teeny tiny going-out tops.

—Brittany Parry, owner of Match Made Boutique

IN: Simple sustainable skin care routine that you can keep up with.

OUT: A 20-step skin care routine you learned off of TikTok that costs most of your paycheck.

—Annie Demczak, @anniedemm

IN: Shopping small and vintage, and repeating outfits that you love.

OUT: Fast fashion and only wearing things once.

—Rachel Mulherin, jewelry designer

IN: Disposable cameras.

OUT: Capturing every moment on your phone with no real intention.

—Hilton Carter, plant and interior stylist and author

IN: Tried and true T-shirt dress.

OUT: Floral, flashy sundresses.

—Kalilah Wright, founder of Mess in a Bottle

IN: Nike Air Max shoes—95 or 97 will do.

OUT: Nike Dunks—they were cool until they weren’t.

—DDM, musician and rapper

IN: Home decor that lightens the mood.

OUT: Stuffy status tchotchkes.

—Julie Lilienfeld, owner of Wishbone Reserve

All relationships have their ups and downs—and that includes in the bedroom. Whether it’s a result of being too busy, too distracted, or upset about something outside the bedroom, it’s common for things to get in the way of prioritizing intimacy in our lives. Enter sex therapy. We talked with sex and relationship therapist Susan Stork, owner and founder of Space Between Counseling Services in Mt. Vernon, about the many benefits of her practice.

What is sex therapy?
Sex therapy is a form of talk therapy aimed at addressing sexual difficulties and enhancing sexual health and wellbeing. It’s important because first and foremost we are sexual beings. I do believe that people tend to get hyper focused on the mechanics of sex, when a lot of times our sexual desire is impacted by our mental health.

Sex therapy shines a light in spaces we sometimes don’t want to look at because it’s uncomfortable, but there are so many sexual health challenges that would no longer be challenges if people talked about sex and their experiences more.

Who can benefit the most from sex therapy?
It can be very beneficial for anyone, no matter age, gender, or sexual orientation. The big thing is providing a safe and confidential space to explore and resolve issues that are holding you back from enjoying a healthy sex life. You can choose whether to attend therapy by yourself or as a couple with your partner. We tend to see issues pertaining to mismatched libidos, anxiety, performance issues, aging, and intimacy problems. We also work with a lot of premarital couples, which is great to see. Starting a marriage off with open communication about sexual desire and boundaries is very promising.

What can you expect when trying sex therapy?
Typically, we start with a screener phone call. Then, the first appointment can be anywhere from one to three hours long depending on the needs of the patient or patients. We also tell people to clear their schedule for that day, and to bring in a list of any medications they are on. You’ll usually leave with some type of “homework” for the next session, like communication exercises, mindfulness techniques, reading articles, and watching educational videos that pertain to sexual health.

What is the stigma around sex therapy?
I definitely think that we’re in a cultural shift right now; we are moving toward more affirming [sex positivity]. But I’m sure some people still immediately think it’s just focused on how to have sex and that’s not necessarily true. I think what people don’t realize is that if you are talking about mental health, you are talking about sexual health. There is not one without the other.

WHAT YOU NEED:

A BRAVE FACE: While some of these topics may seem hard or intimidating to discuss, your therapist is trained to make sure you feel comfortable and supported.

A LIST: It’s best to prepare a list of questions before your appointment so that you don’t forget to ask anything in your session.

FOLLOW THROUGH: Approach therapy with an open mind and practice the at-home techniques that your therapist gives you.

In an increasingly digitized world, it’s become all the more important to hang on to cherished objects. For Alex Costigan, one such object was a charm bracelet that she carefully crafted while growing up with her mother and grandmother—each charm representing a memory of the places they had traveled and activities they did together.

Little did she know that this tradition would go on to inspire her future career and mission to create meaningful stories through jewelry.

Costigan started Charm City Links & Co. in 2022, after first stumbling upon the concept of permanent jewelry while visiting New York City. Unlike traditional jewelry, which can be removed with a clasp, Costigan’s creations can be continuously worn without tarnishing—though she does offer clasp options for those not ready to make the commitment.

She started her business by doing pop-ups in Maryland, D.C., Virginia, and Delaware before opening a permanent storefront in Catonsville. In business since April, the newly renovated space offers several styles of chains in sterling silver, 14K gold, and some gold-filled options.

“The best way I can describe it is it’s an adult friendship bracelet,” says Costigan. “People get permanent jewelry for so many reasons, whether it’s to signify a life event or achievement, as a symbol of love and friendship, or because they just like the aesthetic. It’s nice to have a permanent reminder of specific parts of our story.”

The store is also home to the area’s first charm bar, where customers can pick from nearly 1,000 charms specific to their personality and interests—think initials, food, animals, zodiac signs, and more.

“It’s really fun to see people’s choices and hear the stories behind them,” says Costigan. “It’s just another way for people to interact and spend time together.”

In addition, the Charm City Links space is available for private parties and Costigan also collects vintage pieces that she gathers herself from gold brokers, pawn shops, and estate sales that can be repurposed for a custom design.

“Vintage jewelry comes with its own story,” says Costigan. “I like that we can give it new life and new purpose versus being thrown into a melter and lost forever.”

By preserving vintage jewelry and allowing shoppers to customize their creations, Costigan is helping shoppers build meaningful memories, one charm at a time.

You may have heard of red light therapy as a popular skin care trend, with many influencers and beauty professionals donning light-up masks on their social media channels to promote antiaging and smoother skin. But while it can give you a glowing complexion, red light therapy has major full-body and mind benefits, as well. We talked to Dr. David Meredith of Very Well wellness center in Cross Keys about the treatment and its many uses.

What is red light therapy?
It’s a therapeutic technique using specific wavelengths of visible red light and infrared light to stimulate the cells in the body. It can strengthen the mitochondria—the cell’s energy source—which may repair and improve cell function. You can get red light therapy from different devices, such as lamps, panels, or face masks, but we offer a full-body red light bed, which is great for getting the full-body benefits of the treatment. It looks like a tanning bed, but instead of UV lights, it uses red and infrared LED lights.

What are the benefits of red light therapy?
The FDA has cleared it for pain relief, inflammation, and wound healing, so it’s very helpful for people with autoimmune disorders or looking to accelerate their healing process. But if used regularly, it is also said to help with conditions like arthritis, asthma, hypertension, carpal tunnel, and high blood pressure. It is commonly used for skin care and antiaging and is especially helpful in clearing up skin issues like eczema, acne, and psoriasis. The red light is said to stimulate collagen production, which improves skin elasticity, leaving your skin smoother, often with visible results right away. This can also help reduce scarring and sun damage. It is also said to help with brain health, anxiety, depression, and sleep quality.

How often do you need to receive red light therapy to feel the benefits?
People start by coming in one to three times a week until they get noticeable results and then they can space their appointments out. If it’s a short term or superficial issue that can be resolved, you don’t need to keep coming in, but for things like antiaging—you aren’t going to stop aging—you need to set up appointments to maintain the results you want.

Are there any risks involved with red light therapy?
Women who are pregnant should not use it, but there aren’t really any known risks. People who take medications that may increase skin or eye sensitivity should check with their doctor first. Eye protection is provided for you, but not necessary. The biggest thing is that everyone feels safe and comfortable with the process.

WHAT YOU NEED:

FRESH FACE: Take your makeup off before the treatment so that the light is able to penetrate the skin properly.

FACT CHECK: Do your research when purchasing at-home devices. You want to make sure you are buying a quality product.

GAME PLAN: Talk with your health care provider about what amount of red light therapy will benefit you most.

There may be a certain body type that comes to mind when you think of CrossFit: big muscles, zero-percent body fat, and, of course, rock hard abs. But Dr. Jeanelle Spencer of ZEHBRAS wants to change that perception.

Spencer, who has her Ph.D. in molecular biology from Johns Hopkins University, is working to make health and wellness more inclusive and accessible to all.

After years of working in the medical field, she saw firsthand how many chronic diseases could be avoided by incorporating functional fitness into a person’s life, but she also noticed how many people didn’t have access to it.

So in April of 2024, she opened ZEHBRAS—the name comes from a Trevor Noah stand-up special—on Greenmount Avenue in the Waverly neighborhood where she has lived in for 20 years.

“It was important for me to reduce the barriers and give people not living in the ‘White L’ access to CrossFit,” says Spencer.

Another barrier Spencer wanted to remove? The financial one. Gym memberships cost a lot, which is why ZEHBRAS offers a free class every Saturday morning.

“Even if you can’t afford a monthly membership, you can come in, work out, be coached, and engage with the community,” says Spencer. “And hopefully one good habit leads to another and that person is encouraged to walk somewhere throughout the week, do some other physical activity, or practice something at home that they learned at the gym.”

While the stereotype of CrossFit can be intimidating, just one look at ZEHBRAS’ social media account should put you at ease. Featured are real people of all ages, shapes, and sizes exercising together and sharing their goals and achievements.

“I want to tell those stories of real people using CrossFit to build their fitness and improve their health and longevity,” says Spencer. The gym also offers monthly QueerFit classes—also free—to give members of the LGBTQ+ community a safe space and entry point into CrossFit.

“Our classes are meant for beginners and people who don’t think they belong in a gym,” says Spencer. “I sort of feel like I’m fighting against societal culture because it’s so easy to be sedentary and binge Netflix shows. I’m guilty of it too, but I want people to know they have support in improving their health outcome no matter where they are in life and that they belong here.”

Beautifully wrapped gifts are always welcome during the holiday season. But what about after the gifts have been opened and you’re left with a pile of ribbon, gift wrap, and tissue paper? We talk to Nancy Hotchkiss, director of SCRAP B-more, a creative reuse center in Pigtown, about inventive ways to stay eco-conscious while wrapping this holiday season.

What are the effects of gift-wrapping waste during the holiday season?
In the U.S., around 2.6-billion pounds of wrapping paper are thrown away annually and it takes years to decompose. Especially wrapping paper that is used during the holiday season because it often contains metallic details and splashes of glitter, which can’t be recycled. I encourage people to think about wrapping alternatives because it’s a great way to illustrate your own creativity while making the gift even more special for the recipient.

What are some eco-friendly materials we can use to wrap gifts?
You can use old newspapers, maps, butcher paper, or even old pages of your notebook. There are also a lot of clever vessels for gifts like Mason jars, old coffee bags, and rice bags. You could even make your own gift bags using fabric from old linens or upholstery samples and three quick stitches. Or if you’re really good, you could crochet a cover for your present. Adding a homemade element to any gift makes it feel more special and thought out.

What are some simple changes to make your gift wrapping more sustainable?
You can ditch bows that are usually metallic and a recycling nightmare and add in a natural element like cinnamon sticks, a rosemary sprig, or pine cones. Some things just look absolutely lovely on their own. Magnolia leaves are so gorgeous and effortless. You can also swap out gift labels with recycled materials. My family would always take old Christmas cards and cut off the front, which had the good artwork, and use that as the label for the gift. The best part of all of these more-sustainable choices is that they can become a craft for the family.

What should we make sure we do after opening gifts to better benefit the environment?
I would remind people to double check what they are throwing away. When Scotch Tape and adhesives or other non-recyclable things are left on the wrapping paper, it lowers the grade of the recycling, which could lead to the difference of whether the city is getting money or having to pay for it. You can also be mindful when opening your gifts to not completely rip them apart but gently unwrap them and fold the paper into storage for the next year. It’s all about keeping in mind new ways we can reuse things in the future.

WHAT YOU NEED:

CREATIVE CONCEPT: Think outside the box—literally. There are so many creative ways to go beyond traditional wrapping.

MATERIALS MATTER: Go through your storage closets and junk drawers. Odds are, you have plenty of materials that you could use.

SHARP EYE: For recycling purposes, be sure when tossing holiday waste that there are no tapes or adhesives still stuck to the paper.

EMILY IN PARIS: Check that aspiring fashionista off your list with a trendy charm necklace or a pair of wide-leg barrel jeans. We also love fresh stationary, planners, and journals so that she can document all of her stylish adventures and travels. Emily Cooper would approve.

Shop locally at: Girlhero, Brightside Boutique, and Match Made Stores

LOVE IS BLIND: Have a fan of the “experiment” on your list? Lean into all things cozy like fuzzy blankets, delicious candles, a new journal, or the iconic gold wine glasses. You also can’t go wrong with a cute matching lounge set that’s not only comfy, but pod-worthy.

Shop locally at: South Moon Under, In Watermelon Sugar, and Best Day Ever

THE BEAR: If your at-home chef has been inspired by the hit FX show, we suggest taking their kitchen game to the next level. Have them try their hand at recreating signature recipes from the most iconic restaurants across the country with the Eater cookbook and Eater x Heritage Steel cookware collection. The best part? Maybe they’ll invite you over for dinner. Yes, chef!

Shop locally at: Williams-Sonoma, Culinary Architecture, and Becket Hitch

BLUEY: For fans of this sweet Australian animated series, we suggest items as fun and curious as Bluey herself. Think puzzles and board games for the whole family to play together. Or choose something that sparks creativity like CONNETIX magnetic tiles, which allow little ones to build something new and inventive each day.

Shop locally at: Shananigans Toy Shop, Wee Chic, and The Pied Piper

SURVIVOR: The tribe has spoken and we have the perfect gifts for your Survivor-obsessed friends and family. We highly suggest the smokeless solo stove or a comfy DoubleNest hammock to truly allow them to enjoy the great outdoors this year.

Shop locally at: REI, Patagonia, and Princeton Sports

MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL: Baltimore sports fans are always eager to show off their hometown pride. While you can’t go wrong with your standard jersey, tee, or hat, you could also give more niche items like a bedazzled Maryland flag tumbler or Ravens-themed coasters to ensure the team spirit is always on display.

Shop locally at: Route One Apparel and Under Armour Brand House

While Pilates is by no means a new workout method, the focus has shifted from the mat to something called a reformer machine, a flat piece of exercise equipment that incorporates pulleys and springs. We talk to Chandler Rossi, owner of Pilates Laboratory in Ruxton, about reformer Pilates and its benefits.

What is reformer Pilates?
Reformer Pilates encompasses the background and foundational principles of mat Pilates but is performed on a reformer machine. While the movements can affect your entire body, the focus is really about being mindful of your core and how it helps to power each movement. The great thing about the reformer is that you’re able to manually load resistance—which is controlled by springs on the machine—to match your needs or experience level.

What are the benefits?
Obviously, the ability to take time for yourself and be present in class is huge for your mental health. But physically it’s a great way to gain strength through lengthening, toning, and sculpting your muscles. It is particularly helpful for people dealing with back pain, hip tightness, or wanting to better their posture. It’s very customizable in that you can increase or decrease resistance throughout the class or when targeting certain muscle groups. Another benefit is [smaller] class size and the ability for your instructor to give you more personalized attention.

Who would benefit most from reformer Pilates?
Reformers are for anyone and everyone—that’s the glory of reformer Pilates. It’s a great resource for those who are post injury or postpartum just because of the strengthening, customization, and awareness it brings to your movement. You can easily alter the machine’s settings and any of the Pilates movements to meet you where you are in terms of fitness. It can also be beneficial for people who golf, play tennis, or do any other sort of activity where there is a swing, push, or pull, because it has that rotational aspect that connects to your core.

What are some misconceptions about reformer Pilates?
I think some people think of Pilates as stretching or yoga, and it is not that. There is a false belief that when we are tense or tight, it’s because we aren’t stretching enough and that stretching will help us be more flexible. That is not always true. With Pilates you will find strength and length but it is going to challenge you so that you are able to see results. I also think the reformer might be intimidating to some who haven’t used it before, but it can actually help a lot with your form. However, if you are nervous about trying it out, I would suggest maybe signing up for a private class until you feel more comfortable using the machine.

WHAT YOU NEED:

GET A GRIP: Wear a pair of grip socks to provide extra support and stability to your feet and ankles.

THAT’S A STRETCH: Wear fitted, stretchy spandex exercise clothes during your workout for freedom of movement.

HYDRATION IS KEY: Don’t forget your water bottle! While reformer Pilates is a low-impact exercise, you will still need to stay hydrated.

From the moment you enter the door of The Craft Castle, nestled on Hampden’s The Avenue, the feeling of warmth is almost overwhelming. Whether it’s the fresh-cut flowers lining the work desks, the DIY name tags handed out to participants, or the mini fridge stocked with seltzer, it’s the thoughtful details that make this adult arts-and-crafts studio so special.

Opened in October of 2022 by owner and former Baltimore City school teacher Craig Reinauer, The Craft Castle was born out of a dream to offer a safe space for people to reconnect with their creativity and imagination—which is so often lost in the drudges of adulthood.

“I wanted this to be an escape from what’s happening in people’s day-to-day lives, where they can reconnect to themselves and remember who they are through arts and crafts,” says Reinauer. “Getting your hands on tangible materials and doing something as simple as a collage or a friendship bracelet grounds people in the present moment, which is rare in a world of endless scrolling.”

The studio offers two-hour crafting sessions where you can reserve a fully stocked desk to create anything you want. They also host weekly meetups for journaling and something called craft club—which reserves you a spot for the entire month. And Reinauer says no previous craft experience is needed.

“Just pick [a material] that piques your curiosity and get lost in it.”

The Craft Castle is rooted in the notion of prioritizing your mental health by taking a break from things that don’t serve you. That is why Reinauer decided to make it a sober space, a decision that kept the studio feeling more authentic to who he was.

“I realized alcohol didn’t add value to my life, and it removed me from who I was at my center,” says Reinauer. “I am in no way preaching a life of abstinence from alcohol, but it’s great to have a place for people who are sober, sober curious, or just want to take a break from drinking.”

What started as a healing journey for Reinauer has turned into a healing journey for many in the community.

“Sitting with like-minded people and creating something is really life-changing,” says Reinauer. “There are moments of quiet, outbursts of laughter, and meaningful connections made.”

Did you know that just a 30-minute walk a day could greatly improve the health of your body and mind? Below, we talk to Kadija Hart, the program coordinator for the local chapter of the national Walk with a Doc/Just Walk! program, about the many benefits of hitting the pavement.

What are the physical benefits of getting out and walking?
It can help to regulate blood pressure and cholesterol while helping you maintain a healthy weight and strengthen muscles. It also lowers the risk of heart disease, stroke, Type-2 diabetes, and several types of cancer. It can even boost your immune system by increasing blood flow, decreasing inflammation, and introducing your body to illness-preventing antibodies. It’s low-impact, so it’s more accessible, whether you’re physically fit, recovering, or just starting out. And it’s free!

What are the mental health benefits of walking?
Not only is it a mood booster, it can help increase your energy levels. It raises your serotonin levels, which can help with anxiety and depression. Walking also gives you time to calm your mind and focus on your surroundings, which can help with mental alertness and clarity. We all move so quickly through our days, so it’s nice to give yourself time to be with your thoughts; there’s a lot of power in that. Then there is the social element of walking. Whether or not you choose to walk with a partner, a walking group, or alone, there will inevitably be social interactions within your community that you will come across.

How often should you walk and for how long?
If you can, 30 minutes a day makes a huge difference and can really strengthen your heart. But it really doesn’t have to be looked at as exercise or a routine. The best thing about walking is that it’s customizable. It can be as simple as taking a walk around the block or even just down the street.

How do you get started with a walking routine?
It’s good to start small. Pick somewhere you feel comfortable walking, like down your street, and just go. I suggest downloading an audio book or listening to good music to help pass the time. Another good way to feel comfortable is to invite a friend to join you on your walks or to join a local walking group to hold yourself accountable. And make sure you have the right shoes, fit by a professional.

How do you incorporate walking into your life if you don’t live in a walkable area?
The biggest misconception is that you have to walk outside, but there are many places indoors that you can get some steps in. You could visit a local museum, the mall, or even the grocery store. Another idea is driving to a more walkable neighborhood to explore. It’s nice to see new areas and appreciate the scenery and architecture. Make it an adventure and you’ll never be bored.

WHAT YOU NEED:

IF THE SHOE FITS: Make sure to get fitted for a good pair of walking shoes to prevent any injury.

TAKE A BREAK: Schedule time for a walk in your day so you can clear your mind and practice self-care.

START SMALL: There are no rules; even a walk around the block is beneficial to your overall health. Start there and see where it takes you.

After seeing her mother deal with medical hair loss, Lena Fleminger understood how devastating the condition could be. Comforting women who are experiencing hair loss became one of the driving forces behind her business, Lena’s Wigs, which she opened about 15 years ago out of her home studio.

The mission was to provide a judgment-free, safe space for women to reclaim their self-confidence through expert wig customization, high quality products, and a long-term support network.

Fleminger was originally introduced to wigs through the Orthodox Jewish community—she joined the religion in her 20s—and noticed many women were spending a lot of money on wigs that they didn’t even like, much less feel good in. (In many Orthodox Jewish communities, women wear wigs.) She saw an opportunity for a secondhand store and started selling wigs on consignment.

As her business grew, she organically started getting more and more customers with medical hair loss—whether from cancer treatment, alopecia, or other autoimmune disorders—and decided to shift her business model to focus on women dealing with these life-altering conditions.

“In some ways, this is like a prosthesis,” Fleminger says. “It’s restoring something that’s been taken from you and it’s extremely personal. I try to emphasize that this really is self-care.”

In January of this year, Fleminger opened her very own storefront along The Avenue in Hampden, specializing in lace-front and lace-top wigs. While Fleminger used to handle the entire customization process herself, she now has a team of artists who assist her.

The sessions with customers tend to get emotional.  “I try to take some of the intimidating aspects out of it,” Fleminger says. “But everyone cries here. I cry. They cry. That’s just how it is. We have a little privacy wall because I want people to feel like they have a safe space to talk about their journey.”

In recent years, the stigma around hair loss has lifted a bit, as Instagram celebrities have begun to talk more openly about their own struggles. And Fleminger wants to keep the conversation going.

“Before I did this, I was thinking about going back to school to become a therapist, but this almost feels the same,” she says. “I just love helping people reclaim their confidence.”

No, it’s not your imagination. Some colors wash you out and some colors make you pop. Color analysis is a rising trend to determine which grouping of colors are right for you. We talked to local image consultant Tarcela Knight of House of Colour to get the scoop.

What is color analysis?
Color analysis is a process where we use a person’s unique undertones to determine which colors look best on their complexion. Using this information, they can make better and more efficient decisions when shopping by knowing their personalized color palette or “wow” colors. They can use this color palette for hair, makeup, and nail colors as well.

The color palettes are grouped by the four seasons, and every season has four subseasons—which is an even more narrowed down array of colors that a person really shines in. The subseasons help determine if a person should gravitate towards warm, cool, bright, or muted tones.

How does the process work?
The first step is to figure out if a person has yellow, warm based undertones or cool, blue based undertones. From that point we start the draping process, which is using 36 dyed fabric swatches draped over a client’s shoulders to determine if that color works for them and their complexion.

If a person has more blue undertones, we see if they look better in bright and clear colors or more soft and blended colors. If a person has yellow undertones, do they look better in bright and clear colors or more earthy, muted tones? That is how a person’s season and subseason are determined. It’s important to not wear makeup to the consultation so that it’s easier to see your undertone using natural sunlight.

How does color analysis make a difference in a person’s closet?
It makes a huge difference! When shopping, everyone tends to have some sort of color bias or colors that they are scared to wear. Or for example, someone with blue eyes might have been told they should wear blue to bring out their eye color, but not all shades of blue are created equal. Some blue hues will work with a person’s complexion and make their eyes pop, but some could do the opposite and make their eyes more dull and muted.

Having this personalized color palette helps make shopping trips so much easier and efficient. It gives you the knowledge and language to better describe what you are actually looking for. You’re also not wasting time and energy searching through racks, but instead just seeking out shades that you know will look terrific on you.

Does your color palette ever change?
No, it does not. You really only need to get the analysis done once, because your undertones do not change. Your season is going to stay your season, you’re just going to lean into different shades of your palette throughout the year to feel seasonally appropriate. In Maryland, we get all four seasons and each season has a pretty distinct color association based on the fashion industry and what is being sold in stores. We know the moss greens and burnt oranges will be out in stores in the fall, so we try to determine what the most flattering shades of green and orange are for each person.

I encourage people not to rush to replace their entire wardrobe. Realistically, it takes three years to transition your entire closet to match your season, especially since we are at the mercy of retailers. Be patient, and wait for quality items that you know won’t just take up space in your closet.

Can you still wear neutrals if your color palette does not include them?
Definitely! Every season has a neutral, but knowing which shade of neutral works for you makes a huge impact. For instance, some people require a bright, crisp white, while others can get away with an ivory or a cream. Certain neutrals can make people look very washed out since they can be close to skin tones. We’ve also been told for years that black is slimming and flattering on everyone, and yes black is always an option in stores, but when people wear black, they just kind of blend in. The goal is to help people find the color that makes them feel confident and beautiful outside of trusty black dress. The power of color can be completely transformative to the way you view yourself and your appearance. It’s truly amazing.

What are some ways to incorporate your suggested color palette into your wardrobe?
One of the first steps you can take after their appointment is making sure you are using the correct shades of makeup, and that your hair–if you dye it– is a flattering shade that works well with your skin tone. Over time, your clothes and accessories will catch up, but you’ll notice an immediate difference incorporating the correct beauty products into your rotation.

Color matching your makeup is something that is so simple, and that most people don’t think to do. You want to make sure your foundation, blush, and even mascara are working within your color palette to enhance your natural complexion. For example, everyone assumes they should be wearing black mascara, but for some people that can be too harsh of a look for them. A subtle shade difference in switching to a brown mascara can highlight your eyes and decrease the look of heaviness. Simple changes like this can make all the difference when you are first starting out.

WHAT YOU NEED:

CLEAN SLATE: Make sure to go fresh faced so that your consultant can correctly identify your natural undertones.

COLOR WHEEL: Bring your personalized color palette with you to the salon or spa to better know which hair, makeup, and nail colors flatter your complexion.

OPEN MIND: Don’t be afraid to try new colors, you may surprise yourself with how confident you feel in a color you’ve never worn before.

When Baltimore natives Steven White and Dominick Davis met in high school, they knew they were meant to create something special together.

Both self-taught designers with a passion for apparel, they created their brand DIFFERENTREGARD with the goal of designing custom fashion that was as beautiful as it was sustainable. The duo opened their showroom and factory space in downtown Baltimore in 2011, starting as a menswear brand designing bespoke suits, but quickly shifting to offering women’s, men’s, and unisex designs.

Today, their clothing is both custom and ready-to-wear and they boast such high profile clients as Maryland first lady Dawn Moore and Robyn Dixon from The Real Housewives of Potomac. You can shop their designs both online and in their Mt. Vernon showroom, or schedule an appointment for a custom consultation.

The factory is zero waste and uses all leftover fabric for additional accessories and homewares—think pocket squares, bucket hats, dinner napkins, and coasters.

“Being in a manufacturing industry, you acquire a lot of material, trash, and waste. So instead of us contributing even more waste to a landfill, we decided to repurpose the scraps,” says White.

During the worst of the pandemic, they even used those extra materials to create PPE, donating more than 20,000 facemasks to Baltimore-area hospitals.

“Sustainability is important in my day-to-day life,” explains Davis. “So it was something personal that became more mission-based.”

A collaborative spirit is what sets DIFFERENTREGARD apart.

“We have a diverse team whose individual talents all come into play to create our beautiful products,” says White. “Our team of skilled labor ranges from a Hungarian seamstress to a Sri Lankan pattern-maker, to a Ukrainian tailor, and the list goes on. We wouldn’t be able to do any of this without them.”

The pair also recently opened a new storefront location in concourse D at BWI airport and are expanding their production space.

“It’s really amazing for us to be doing this in Baltimore and offering opportunities to the talented people in our community,” says Davis. “We’re just so proud of Baltimore. People talk so much crap about it and I tell them they just don’t understand; it’s a melting pot of talent and we are just glad to be on this journey.”

Summer is a bit of a mixed bag. While we welcome the pool days, beach trips, and sunbathing with open arms, we could definitely do without the way the sun, heat, and humidity wreak havoc on our hair. So we caught up with Stacie Snyder, co-owner of Primp Salon in Catonsville, in search of some summer hair tips.

What are some hair trends for summer 2024?
We are still seeing a more natural and lived-in look when it comes to cut and color. I’ve gotten a lot of requests for soft, romantic layers with face-framing and volume. Another popular style has been the Italian bob, which is a modern, chin-length bob that is also very low-maintenance. For color, I’m seeing a big shift from ashy to warmer tones. I’ve also been hearing the term “Bambi blonde” a lot, which is a bright champagne blonde that you’ve seen on celebrities like Beyoncé, Zendaya, and Sofia Richie.

What are the best ways to protect your hair and scalp in the summer?
I know people don’t usually think of putting SPF directly on their scalp, but that is extremely important in the summer months. There are many products now with UV protectant and SPF in them, which is great, but you can also just use regular sunscreen. I would suggest applying it right where your hair parts, or wear a hat or scarf to cover the area if you are going to be in direct sunlight for an extended period of time. I would also recommend using a protectant shampoo and conditioner if you are in salt water or chlorine. And adding a moisture treatment to your routine once a week throughout the summer to keep your hair moisturized and healthy.

How do you keep your hair from going limp in heat and humidity?
Using the right products is huge. It’s best to look for products that are more lightweight to reduce frizz. If you are looking to add some extra volume, opt for a root-booster or sea-salt serum to add texture and natural hold to your hair. I am also a big fan of texturizing sprays.

What are some easy and stylish ways to style long or curly hair on super hot days?
I love a claw clip. Throw your hair up in a French twist and secure it with the clip for a simple but still polished and classic look. Obviously, a low messy bun is always cute and an easily attainable way to get your hair off your neck. If you don’t like putting your hair back or up, there are newer air-dry products on the market that help your hair dry smoother and softer. Curl creams, gels, and sea-salt sprays are all great ways to enhance your hair’s natural texture so that you won’t need to put any heat on the hair to style it. It’s good to give your hair a break from heated tools, but if you are using them daily, make sure you are using a heat-protecting spray beforehand.

BLOW IT OUT: Use a blow dry brush for an easy at-home blow out and to cut hair drying time in half.

SUN SHIELD: Make sure to use SPF directly where your hair parts to protect your scalp from the sun.

ELEVATE YOUR LOOK: Hair not feeling the humidity? Try a claw clip or low messy bun.

Lola Manekin, who launched Movement Lab in 2016, found success by bringing her members fresh and playful alternatives to moving their bodies. She offered an array of classes—including anti-gravity yoga and jumping fitness, to name a few—that not only aimed for wellness, but also a spirit of self-discovery and joy.

So, when she stepped away from the Movement Lab in 2020 for a personal sabbatical, she knew that she wouldn’t be leaving the Baltimore wellness community for good.

Late last year, Manekin felt the time was right to explore a new concept aimed to educate members in both mind and body through intentional movement. And with former Movement Lab teachers Barri DeFrancisci and Gary Grisham on board, TRIBE was born.

TRIBE, whose name was inspired by the idea of redefining tribal consciousness, is not your typical gym or fitness studio.

“We are calling it a school of embodied arts,” says Manekin. “It’s a place where we teach people how to use movement as an invitation to self-awareness.”

Taking over the space that was once Yogaworks Midtown, TRIBE features five studios that each represent a different element of Chinese medicine. The wood room offers mixed martial arts and calisthenics, the fire room has hot yoga classes, while the earth room is focused on dance and breathwork. The metal room features the area’s first vibroacoustic sound waterbed, which uses vibrations to increase cellular movement and promotes improved sleep and stress reduction, among other things.

The water room is equipped with a cold plunge tub used for boosting circulation and aiding in muscle recovery. And just off the lobby is “The Cave,” a dedicated private space for journaling and meditation.

In addition to classes, TRIBE hosts a variety of workshops and weekly meet-ups where members are able to share and connect through thought-provoking themes that will be used and discussed in class weekly.

“One of the ideas that I have been really standing by lately is the idea of enlightenment through embodiment,” says Manekin. “We want to bring the experience of spirituality back to the body to help people feel more whole, rooted, and grounded.”

Spring is here, which means it’s time to swap out the sweaters and heavy blazers for blouses and light jackets. But your closet is already overflowing—now what? A new season is a perfect opportunity to refresh, organize, and streamline your wardrobe. We know it can be a little daunting, so here are a few tips to get you started.

Step One: Purge
Start by pulling items from your closet that you haven’t worn in a while. Ask yourself, “Does this item make me feel my best?” If not, it’s time to remove it from your closet (and your life). Consider the dreaded one-year rule. The hard truth is if you haven’t worn it in a year or more, you most likely are not going to. Toss.

Step Two: Store
Gather all seasonal items that you’d like to hang onto for next year and set them aside. Plastic storage containers, cardboard boxes, and even an empty suitcase are all great places for your seasonal items to be stored away. However, it’s important to keep them in a cool, dark, and dry place to prevent fading or mold.

Step Three: Organize
Now that we’ve decided which items are keepers, it’s time to organize them so that outfits are easy to put together. Order some organizational items, like shelf dividers, shoe holders, and non-slip hangers to really transform your space. When your closet is truly organized, it’s like having a whole new wardrobe.

Step Four: Donate
Don’t throw away old clothing—donate. It’s better for the environment and can really make a difference in someone’s life. Local organizations like Dress for Success and Suited to Succeed accept gently used professional attire for women seeking financial independence. Meanwhile, Goodwill, Salvation Army, and many other other collection centers around town take all clothing, as well as household items and furniture.

Having worked for almost a nearly in the healthcare system, Heather Chilcot knows the importance of taking care of your body. Which is why after months of research she opened Core Cycle Studios in Lutherville-Timonium to share the gift of health through fitness classes. We talked to Chilcot about her inspiration, benefits of cycling, and her favorite fitness trends.

What is Core Cycle Studios and where did you get your inspiration?
It’s a boutique fitness studio in its simplest form. I would say right now we’re very lucky that we’re the only dedicated cycle, barre, yoga, and HIIT studio in the area. As far as inspiration, I just love fitness and the feeling of working out. Being a mom and a role model, I wanted to create that healthy balance where you can be a business woman and you can also live this very healthy balanced lifestyle. I wanted to not just focus on how many times you work out a day, but also on nutrition, good relationships, and building a beautiful community.

What are the benefits of Core Cycle Studios?
The benefits of cycling are that it’s low impact and it’s an extremely high calorie burn. It also definitely increases your overall endurance. I used to run and do all of those different aerobic step and body classes. But, over time, those types of activities are just challenging on your joints. Another benefit I think is the ability to detach and unplug, which makes it more of spiritual process than a workout.

What are some tips for people just starting out their fitness journey?
People get overwhelmed with what you could or should look like. My suggestion is to just start moving. Find a buddy. If you find a buddy and you just start out to walking and getting some fresh air, that’s great. You will want to be creative in what you do and keep trying new things so that you don’t get bored. And then make sure to also track your progress. If we’re not tracking that progress, then it can very easily derail us from our goals.

How is a Core Cycle Studio class different from your typical cycling class at other studios?
We are all different shapes, sizes, genders, and ages. We try our best to customize our workouts for each person to track their performance and assist them in hitting their goals. There is an energy in our studio and you can feel it no matter what class you are taking.

What would you tell someone who is hesitant about taking a Core Cycle Studios class?
Every one of our classes is designed by incredible instructors to allow for modifications, changes, and enhancements, so whether you’re looking for something with less intensity or with more intensity, we can help you feel comfortable.

What is your favorite fitness trend currently?
I love interval training. I think we are seeing a rise in classes that focus on that style of training. It doesn’t plateau the body, and there is a lot of variety in it so you won’t get bored.

If you weren’t a fitness instructor what would you be?
I’ve always wanted to be a teacher. If I wasn’t doing that, I think I would find ways to give back to the community.

What began as a hobby in Charlotte, North Carolina, has now grown into a full-time business in Baltimore for Kellie Martin. Facing her own personal skincare issues, Martin knew all-natural products needed to become a bigger conversation in the world of beauty and it prompted her to start her own wellness company, Earth Elements Soapworks. We talked to Martin about skincare must-haves, her inspirations, and what she has in store for the future of her brand.

How did you first get started with natural skincare?
I’ve always been a naturalist. If I had an ailment, I’ve always gone to herbs and things. And I thought, “Well I’ll take a stab at trying to make my own soap.” So, I did it as a hobby at first, giving them as gifts to friends and coworkers and then it really started taking off with orders from friends and schools.

What inspired you to create your own brand?
I had a problem with breaking out. I’m a believer that natural is always better. So I wanted to try and solve a problem that I had not necessarily something to do. But I wanted to solve a problem and I knew in the process of me doing that, I could help someone else.

What are some of the benefits of your natural skincare?
One of the things I created was a belly butter. It’s intended for moms, but males and females can use it. You can use it all over your body but it has specific ingredients targeted to help reduce stretch marks and moisturize the skin for mothers-to-be. So I crafted that when I was expecting my first child. With all of my products, I try to have target ingredients that can help a specific skin type: mature skin, oily-combination, and eczema.

What is your favorite product that you make?
I really like my soap because that’s where I started. It’s so much of a different variety. It’s almost like I get excited with the soaps I have two or three different ones in the shower. I can use one if I did a long run and my body is aching, I can use a cool mint soap if I want to relax before I go to bed, or I can use my lavender soap.

What is the best part about owning a Baltimore-based company?
Since I’ve lived here, I think the community itself is very close-knit. It is a pretty strong group of artisans and small local businesses that stick together. They have a lot of markets and craft shows or networking events that you can learn how to grow your business. I really enjoy that aspect and I’ve never gotten or seen quite like this anywhere else. It seems that the consumers in Baltimore are really about buying local so that is a big plus here in this area. It’s almost like it’s ingrained.

What ingredients do you think are essential for our skin?
All of my ingredients that I put in my products I think are essential. Essential oils are very holistic and healing for the skin. They are plant-based, they have healing properties, and they’re all-natural. I am very specific as far as where I procure my oils from to know that they are pure and there are no toxins. So essential oils I would say are a key ingredient.

Which five beauty or skincare items you couldn’t live without?
I am a product junkie. My soap, I can’t live without. Mascara. Carmex. My body butter. And a good leave-in conditioner.

What’s your guilty pleasure?
Ice cream. I always like to treat myself.

How would you describe Earth Elements Soapworks in one sentence?
My brand is all-natural, eco-friendly, for an earth-conscious consumer.

Where do you see Earth Elements headed in the future?
For 2019, some of my goals were to launch my website. I am really working on relaunching an updated website, full e-commerce website so that’s one of my goals. Another is social media presence to ultimately bring in new customers and potentially increase sales. Right now, I am only working with various soaps, body butters, and body scrubs but I want to extend my product offerings. I am looking at bath soaks that have botanicals and dead sea salts. But one thing at a time.

Finish the sentence: No skincare routine is complete without?
It’s not complete without knowledge of what toxins are in the products that aren’t good for you skin. Skincare starts from the inside out. Staying hydrated. It’s not about what you put on, but what you are putting into your body. Your skin is the largest organ in your body so you want to take care of your skin, cleansing and moisturizing, because that’s all you got.

Over the past few years, I’ve been practicing yoga. Sure, it’s been a thrill seeing my body change and challenging myself into more intricate postures, but never would I imagine pulling off acro-yoga. Aside from the idea of acrobatics meshed with yoga seeming beyond my reach, I was slightly intimidated by the idea of doing a more intimate practice with a group of people I did not know.

I entered AsanaRoots and was immediately greeted by the instructors. The small studio space was brightly lit, and the artwork on the walls was mesmerizing. While my first impression was welcoming, my intimidation only grew as I began to stretch among others who were well more advanced than me and had already known each other well.

Yet, as the class went on, I become more comfortable and excited. I was lifted into the air, accomplishing physical challenges I never knew I was capable of, all the while being supported by a generous team. I left the the yoga class with an endorphin-induced high and a new-found sense of acro-accomplishment.

Afterwards, I sat down with my instructors Eric Sipes and Kelly Marburger to chat about the practice, its benefits, and why we should all step out of our comfort zone.

How did you discover acro-yoga and why did you choose to become an instructor?

Kelly Marburger: I started teaching because I was one of only a small handful of people in Baltimore who knew the practice, so I had to teach. I actually saw a circus performance here in Baltimore, and at the time a teacher who was working at Charm City Movement Arts was performing, and I thought it was so cool and that I had to try it out.

Eric Sipes: I was introduced to it by a guy I was slack-lining with, and he was like, “Hey, you do want to see something?” I was like, “Sure,” and he threw me upside down and I thought, “This is the best thing ever!” From there, I looked around in Baltimore for it, but I couldn’t find it anywhere. I finally found the Charm City Movement Arts, which is no longer in business. I met Kelly and the rest of our crew through Charm City Movement arts, got a yoga teacher certification from Baltimore Yoga Village, and then we all went to Mexico to get our acro-yoga international certifications.

Are there philosophies or principles that acro-yoga is built upon?

KM: Yoga is a little different as it’s very introspective. You can maybe explore relationships in it, but mostly you’re doing an individual practice whereas acro-yoga really expands the practice to make it more community-based, which I sometimes feel like yoga is lacking a little. I love being able to bring that because sometimes in our culture you’re expected to sit in a cubicle all day, not interacting with people, and then you go to a yoga class, and you’re doing something also introspective. It can be great, but this is a great way to bring it all together and be community-oriented.

What do participants want to take away from your class?

ES: Joy. If what you’re doing doesn’t feel good, you should do something else. And if it feels good, then you’re doing it right.

KM: I’d say fun. We want people to come into class and forget about the crazy day they had, have fun, be challenged, and enjoy themselves.

ES: By connecting through physical touch, we release neurotransmitters that make us feel good. And I think a lot of some the issues that people have: depression, anxiety, these things can actually be alleviated through the practice of acro and being in physical contact with people with good intentions.

As a partner-based practice, what would you tell people who are shy or who want to fly solo?

KM: Please come! We try to encourage people as much as we possibly can to come. We mix up the partners, it’s never like you’re going to get stuck in a group that’s not working well.

ES: It does push people out of their comfort zone sometimes. It’s really good to go out and do things that make you a little bit uncomfortable to grow as a person.

Why should someone come to AsanaRoots for acro-yoga?

KM: I’d say it’s just really freakin’ fun, while still challenging yourself.

ES: I think if you come in with an open mind, you will leave with a smile on your face.

Attn: Ladies of Baltimore County. You will be soon getting a new very stylish neighbor. Women’s contemporary boutique Sassanova will be joining the already impressive list of local retailers at Green Spring Station this spring.

The store, which will be taking over the current Becket Hitch space (not to worry, Becket Hitch will be moving into the old Trillium location) is set to begin its buildout in March. Owner Angela Tandy has been working diligently with local architect Dawn Sangley of Spry Design to create the perfect space for her customers.

“We’ve done lots of pop-up shops in the county and were always asked when we would open a store here,” says Tandy. “I am just so excited to be at Green Spring Station and to be surrounded by all of these other amazing independent local retailers.”

Tandy bought Sassanova from its previous owners in 2015, and since has added more apparel and accessories to the vast shoe selection, for which the store was known. This will be the store’s third location, with other stores in Harbor East and Bethesda, and will carry all of your favorite styles from brands like Shoshanna, Trina Turk, Frame, and Amanda Uprichard.

Follow Sassanova on Instagram for more info on the store opening.

B. Willow to open in Canton
After two years of laying down roots on West 27th Streetin Remington, everyone’s favorite plant palace, B. Willow, is opening a second location in Canton. The two-story space just off O’Donnell Square will host their already excellent array plants and terrariums, as well as a selection of furniture and home goods from Cedar & Cotton, a local company specializing in new and vintage furnishings. We have a feeling that everything in this store will spark joy. Sorry Marie Kondo. 2822 O’Donnell St.

Radcliffe Jewelers thrives in new Kenilworth home.
This past September popular local jeweler Radcliffe made the move from Towson Town Center to The Shops at Kenilworth and has been received with open arms—and more parking spaces. After over 30 years in the mall, Radcliffe is happy to be in a new space that has a real community feel with other local retailers like Ruth Shaw, About Faces, and South Moon Under. Along with their new digs, this location offers styles from Rolex, David Yurman, and many more. Keep an eye out for upcoming trunk shows and their big annual sale in April. 800 Kenilworth Dr., Towson, 410-321-6590

Poppy and Stella to open in Old Ellicott City
Fells Point favorite Poppy and Stella announced they will be opening a location in Old Ellicott City this April. The store, which was once home to toy store All Time Toys, will feature a similar assortment of shoes, apparel, accessories, and gift items from brands like Sam Edelman, Knot Sisters, and Dolce Vita to name a few. Follow along on social media for more details on the new store and an opening date. 8185 Main St., Ellicott City

Cohen’s Clothier closes after 115 years in business
It’s the end of an era for preppy style institution Cohen’s Clothier. After 115 years in business, the shop announced via Facebook earlier this month that it would be closing its doors for good. Originally located on South Broadway in Fells Point, Cohen’s was first opened in 1904 by Max Cohen and has stayed in the family as it evolved, expanded, and relocated to its Cockeysville location. In a message to his customers, owner Gilbert Cohen explained that their current lease was up and that the time had come for him to retire. “Goodbyes are never easy,” states Cohen. “But the satisfaction of filling a need in our community for so many years will remain.” 64 Cranbrook Rd. 410-666-8020

You know those workouts that hurt so good, to the point where even laughing the next day is just a little painful? Yeah, that’s Solidcore. This high intensity workout may be low impact, but it is not low in effort. While the class itself is challenging, there is something about sweating through the pain with your classmates and feeling like a superhero once you are done that will keep you coming back for more. We talk to Harbor Point studio manager Jaime Dardine about Solidcore, its benefits, and her favorite tunes to blast during class.

What is Solidcore?
Not to sound super scripted, but it’s a 50-minute workout that is low impact and high intensity, meaning it is super light on the muscles. It’s full body so you are working your upper body, core, obliques, and lower body. We also have specialty classes called “Buns and Gun,” which is perfect for those who hate obliques, and “Arms and Abs,” which is no lower body movements.

What is it that brought you to Solidcore?
I used to work at Under Armour and I was actually helping out with the sales team and we went to D.C. because we had just launched the studio line back in 2013. While we were looking for studios to bring that product into, we stumbled upon Solidcore. The first class I took was so challenging mentally and physically that I didn’t know what I had gotten myself into.

But I wanted to get stronger, so whenever I was in D.C. visiting friends I would take a class. I just really enjoy the community aspect of it. Everyone was in such a great mood afterwards and that is very much my personality, so it felt like a great fit.

What are the benefits of Solidcore?
It really helps with muscle tone and structure. Through our slow movements, we break down slow twitch muscle fibers and build them back up to be more toned and defined. There are over 200 moves that you can on the Megaformer machine, so you can really focus on whatever area you’d like. I hate the word modification because, even if you are doing a move on your knees as opposed to your toes, it’s still hard. The best part is seeing people get stronger and making that transition and progress.

What makes Solidcore different from other gyms?
We want to promote connection within our community instead of weight loss and fitness goals. It’s just about creating the strongest version of yourself, whatever that may be. Also, I think the way we structure the actual class is a little different from other places. We really work on slow and controlled movements and mix up which areas we are targeting so that the class is always fresh and unexpected.

What is your favorite song to play during class?
I have music ADD. It depends on my mood for the day. Somedays I am into country, somedays I am into hardcore rap. All that matters is that it has a good beat.

What is your favorite place to shop for activewear?
I wear a lot of Under Armour. But what has been kind of fun is that I’m not only the studio manager at this location, but I help handle retail for all of our studios. I like seeing what else is out there because boutique retail is a little bit different than a corporate company.

If you could travel anywhere in the world where would you go?
I am actually going to South Africa for my honeymoon in a few weeks.

What is your wellness trend right now?
I have dialed in to all of the Vital Proteins and collagen supplements. We’ve done some pop-ups with them in the studio.

What is your least favorite wellness trend?
Fad diets. I don’t like Band-Aid fixes. I want to invest time in things that are going to lead to long term results not short term.

If you were not working at Solidcore what would you be doing?
I would be a sportscaster.

What would you say to someone who is intimidated?
You are never going to know unless you try.

On the second Saturday in October (aka this Saturday, October 13), The Walters Art Museum will host its annual gala, this year celebrating a year of transformation with their theme “Metamorphosis.” While this isn’t exactly the Met Gala, The Walters and executive director Julia Marciari-Alexander enlisted local design prodigy Bishme Cromartie to make her outfit and encourages patrons to dress to the nines as well. We talked to Marciari-Alexander and Cromartie about the design process, their inspiration, and what to expect from this year’s event.

How did this collaboration come about?
Julia Marciari-Alexander: He did a photo shoot at the Walters for Bmore Art and I loved it.

Bishme Cromartie: It was just so weird. I did a collection called “The Chrysalis” because I felt like I was going through the process of being a caterpillar and coming out of my chrysalis as a designer. So, when I got the information about this event I kind of teared up because it felt like the universe letting me know that I am going in the right direction.

JMA: I was so nervous meeting you, I was like, “Oh my god, I’m going to meet a real-life designer. He is going to be all stiff and art-y.” But you just were so awesome and put me at ease immediately, and your collection is just so beautiful.

BC: I appreciate it. I’m prolonging the fittings because I don’t want it to end.

JMA: You can just be my personal stylist forever.

Why did you choose to have a local designer make your outfit?
JMA: We have such a commitment at the museum to Baltimore and the ways that the collection inspires Baltimore, and to have someone for whom that is 100-percent true being the star of the evening is just awesome.

BC: Don’t make me cry again. My mascara is not waterproof.

JMA: Fashion is art and we have a lot of examples throughout our collection of fashion throughout the ages, so this collaboration is just another piece of that.

What inspired the garment?
JMA: Well first, we walked through the museum with Bishme. Our collection is really about design, and I think that most of the works in the collection were used as inspiration in some way. Walking around with Bishme was just amazing because I was seeing the collection through his eyes and seeing his mind click in terms of what he was interested in and how it would fit with his development as an artist.

BC: I got chills walking through because we were standing in the museum talking and I realized we were standing there looking at one of my favorite artists’ paintings. I love Sir Lawrence and his work as far as draping and stuff. To see one of my favorite artist’s paintings for the first time in person was amazing and has been an eye opener to keep going and how things come full circle.

JMA: Seeing you looking at the Lawrence Alma-Tadema paintings and knowing the way this painter treats fashion and treats fabric has been a guiding force in your creativity and to have that happen right here, that made me cry. That was a moment of wonder. You had a moment of wonder and we got to experience that with you.

How much input did you have on the piece Julia?
JMA: The most interesting conversation that we had about the outfit—and I say outfit—was whether it was going to be a dress or pants. I saw myself wearing a dress, but Bishme really wanted to put me in pants.

BC: When you guys came to me, I was told you were open to different styles, so pants were a thought. But then when I got to meet Julia and got to know her, I thought she needs to stand out. A dress would’ve been expected, so for me I really just wanted to create a moment that reads well with the theme of the night. And then once I saw the invitation, I wanted the fabric to sort of mimic how the invitation looked with the detailing.

How is this event different from others in the city?
JMA: We don’t have any auctions, it’s really just a beautiful party in an extraordinary setting. This isn’t about an exhibition, it’s about the museum and celebrating the opportunity for everyone to have access to creativity. The money from tickets goes straight into our operating budget and covers a lot of our education programs.

BC: I love the fact that the theme of this event has a message behind it that I and other people can connect with. It’s about transition in our lives and growing. It’s not just a theme, it’s something that everyone experiences. Everyone is developing, and I think that’s why this experience has meant so much to me.

I’ve heard you want this to be sort of the Met Gala of Baltimore. Do you think people will get that and incorporate the theme into what they choose to wear?
JMA: Absolutely! We saw it last year with a lot of people you could tell thought about what they put on. Our theme last year was Egypt and I felt like our patrons got it and really stepped up their game in bringing their most beautiful clothing to reflect the collection well without being culturally inappropriate. I’m really interested in connecting our collections with contemporary artistic practice primarily through the lens of people in Baltimore and what better way to do that then through what we all are wearing.

This year I think we’ve been really intentional about how we’ve presented the event and I think people will understand even just from a feeling level the theme and what kind of event they are going to. It’s elegantly fun. But it does make you think.

What are you most excited for at this year’s event?
JMA: Sitting with Bishme. It is such an honor to be wearing something of yours because there is no one else that could’ve made something like this for me. Plus, we just really like each other.

BC: My fittings with Julia. I don’t want them to end.

JMA: Also, there is no one in this town that cares more about fashion than our Mayor [Catherine Pugh] and the opportunity to sit you right next to her and to let her see the amazing creativity that lives here in Baltimore all the time and to talk about your work and mentorship with the Baltimore Design School—the school she set up. That’s just so exciting. That’s what a museum can do.

Since relocating to The Shops at Quarry Lake in April of this year, Robin Bille has been bringing the heat in her MEGAfit studio (that shares a space with barre.). Her high energy playlists and unique MEGAfit routine using Megaformer machines is like a pilates class on steroids. We talked to Billie about her career, favorite playlists, and the benefits of MEGAfit.

How did you start teaching MEGAfit?
I was a barre and yoga instructor and started teaching on Megaformer machines in 2013.

What are Megaformers?
Megaformers were created by a guy name Sabastien Lagree in California and he taught pilates and he was tired of having people come take a pilates class then saying they were still going to the gym. He believed you could get a full body workout with pilates and so he invented the Megaformer. There are a couple different variations of it, but they’ve taken off all across the country.

What are the benefits of MEGAfit?
You’re working on balance, strength, and coordination. It’s really resistance training because of the spring tension. Any kind of resistance training is really considered to be the best way to both tone the muscle and to increase your metabolism, so you’re also burning more calories throughout the day than you would be from doing other types exercise.

How frequently should people take MEGAfit?

The idea is that you’re supposed to take it, let your muscles recover, and then take it again. I don’t recommend doing it everyday although some people do, but most people do it 2-3 times a week.

What is your favorite kind of music to play during class?

I love Pharrell Williams, Bruno Mars, and Pink.

What is your favorite fitness trend currently?

MEGAfit! Megaformers!

What is your least favorite fitness trend?

I’m not a fan of HIIT [high intensity interval training]. I like to do my cardio by myself either running or on the elliptical or something like that. I can’t sit through interval training, it’s just not for me.

What do you think is the biggest misconception about Megaformers or MEGAfit?

I think the biggest misconception is that it’s un-doable because it’s so hard. But it’s not! There are tons of modifications—it’s challenging, but it’s challenging in a way that works for everybody.

What would you tell someone who has never taken a class before to make them feel more comfortable?

Just challenge yourself everyday and know that some days are going to be not as good as other days and that’s okay, just work where you are on that day and don’t feel like you’re competing against anyone else, because we’re really adamant in the studio that it’s never a competition with anybody.

Truth be told, before walking into Amy Hornberger’s studio I had jitters that I’d be joining in on a class of tall, twig-thin ballet stars. But immediately I was greeted by Hornberger’s 2-year-old daughter, two dogs, and the thick smell of pre-practice pizza. The atmosphere at the Baltimore School of Dance resembled more of a family gathering than a cut-throat ballet dance company. While the workout was indeed hard, getting to know the company was very easy. I can certainly say my body was sore the next day, but my ego, thankfully, was not. 

After the class, I sat down with Hornberger to talk about dance, ballet, and whether pointe shoes are really as terrible as they seem. 

What types of classes does the Baltimore School of Dance offer?
Amy Hornberger: We have ballet, jazz, tap, modern, contemporary, hip-hop, flamenco, Chinese folk, stretch and strengthening classes for adults, as well as a turns and leaps class.

How long have you been teaching ballet?
AH: I have been teaching since I was a teenager, so around 30 years or so.

Where did you train?
AH: I trained at the Harrisburg Academy of Dance and the Harrisburg Dance Conservatory, and then I went to Goucher College. I’ve also attended the Broadway Dance Center in New York and have been a part of the Howard County Ballet.

What do you wish people knew about ballet?
AH: That it really is the ultimate workout. Everyone is shocked by all of the muscles they end up using throughout the class that they didn’t even know they had. You’re learning a new way of using your body. And I guess the other thing I wish people knew was that not everyone is a ballet snob. They don’t have to have a skinny body when they start. And it’s never too late to start. Also, they’ve found that ballet is one of the only things that can help to prevent Alzheimer’s and reverse its effects since it uses both sides of the brain, with the music, counting, and body movement. I think you get as much out of it as you’re willing to put into it. I know when I was taking classes, it would kick my butt. 

What muscles are used when practicing ballet?
AH: All of them! You use your arms, shoulders, and back muscles. Your core is constantly engaged, your glutes are working hard—there is no workout that gives you a better butt in my opinion. 

What is the difference between soft ballet shoes and pointe shoes? Are pointe shoes as painful as they look?
AH: Yes, they are. Soft ballet shoes are just that, they’re soft. They mold to the foot and allow the dancer to feel the floor. Pointe shoes are only used once a dancer has developed the strength, technique, and placement needed. How pointe shoes are made is fascinating because it hasn’t changed a whole lot since they were first invented hundreds of years ago. Its basically layers of glue, fabric, and leather bound together to support the body. They’re very hard, and the more flexible of a foot you have, the stronger the shoe you need. 

What would you tell people who have never danced before and want to try taking a ballet class?
AH: It takes time, but don’t be discouraged. I have a number of both men and women who have started ballet in adulthood and three of them are on pointe now. You know, we live in this society of immediate gratification with technology, but ballet is not like that. You have to put the work and time in. You have to come to at least two or three times a week to develop the strength needed, but it can be done! I’ve even had ladies in my ballet classes that are in their 60s and 70s and are just starting out. Don’t give up!

Looking for a good workout with an even better playlist? Then you might want to head over to REV Cycle Studio for one of Sean Sanders’ classes. This high energy instructor will make you work hard while trying to restrain your body from all out dancing in his fun 45 minute class offered at both the Brewers Hill and Locust point locations. We caught up with Sanders to discuss his time at REV, how he creates his dynamite playlists, and what he would be doing if he wasn’t a spin instructor.

When do you start teaching spin and how did you get involved with REV?
I’m originally from Knoxville, TN, and I moved here about four years ago, and decided to do an internship with FX Studios, which is how I met the Rick who is a co-owner of REV and it just kind of went from there. I started working at the front desk of the studio in Locust Point, but I have always been very passionate about fitness. I had been working there close to a year and I only took maybe three classes, just because I didn’t feel like spin was for me. But I saw how it impacted a lot of different people and our customers daily and that made me want to be part of it. After that, I decided to become an instructor. 

How has spin has impacted your life?  
Physically, I feel that I have gotten a lot stronger, faster, and my endurance has definitely gone up. I’ve always been a people person, but ever since I started spin the way I talk to others has changed and I feel like I am more engaging. It’s also impacted me by being very rewarding. I love that I’m helping people. I had a lady come up to me the other day and tell me about all the weight she lost taking the class and it made me feel good. The classes can also benefit your mental health by taking 45 minutes to really focus on yourself. 

How many classes do you teach a week?
I teach 8-10 classes a week and I teach at both studios. I was actually the first full-time instructor at REV.

What do you think makes REV stand out from other gyms?
Oh man, a lot! It’s the way we impact the community. There is always an outreach program and charity rides for people in need. It’s also very personal. If it’s your birthday, we acknowledge that and might put something on your bike.

How do you go about picking music for your classes?
I have to admit, it’s a lot of work. I work with Soundcloud and Spotify to put it into a 45-minute mix. There are some instructors that play strictly hip-hip or some that just play pop. I feel like I’m in between. Sometime I’ll go from an EDM song to a hip-hop song to rock and roll. 

What’s your favorite song to spin to?
It’s probably ‘Take It All Back’ by Judah and the Lion. It’s a mix between country and alternative and then it picks up at the end. It’s just one of those songs I had on my very first playlist I ever made and I still play and see everyone go nuts.

What would you say is your favorite fitness trend?
I’m currently training for an Ironman triathlon on May 20. So I’d have to say racing.

If you were not a fitness instructor what would you be?
Honestly, it probably would be something to do with fitness, like personal training. I am also a year away from my degree in information systems, so maybe even doing something with cyber security.

What would you tell people that haven’t been to REV before, that might be a little intimidated to take a class? 
I would tell them not to be scared. It can be intimidating to try something new. I have clients that never want to sit in the front row because they feel like people are looking at them or judging them if they aren’t doing the right thing. I always tell my clients the same thing and that is to do what you can. The minute you step through the door, it’s a judgement-free zone.