Inspiring and Dynamic Women Business Partners Marilyn Rifkin and Deborah Notis were just your typical busy moms; they spent hours trying to find the best tutors, coaches, and activities for their kids. Pretty soon, their friends were coming to them for recommendations. Light bulb! Why not pool their resources and help other parents save time and effort? Thus, Gamechanger was born; for no fee, there’s one stop shopping for assistance with preparation for the SATs, locating opportunities for music and sports activities, even help with the dreaded college essays needed to get into the best schools. “It’s all about having fun,” says Lisa Ballou, “because we understand that everyone has wardrobe problems,” adds Susan Smugar Goodman. <strong>The</strong>se best friends are so in sync, they finish each other’s sentences. Together, their company StyleCycle <strong>of</strong>fers women a chance to get pr<strong>of</strong>essional help cleaning out an overstuffed closet, creating impeccable outfits out <strong>of</strong> clothes they already own, and buying new threads that are perfect for who they are right now. <strong>The</strong>y’ll even take those items you never wear to a consignment shop. <strong>The</strong>y do all this with ease and grace, and a true appreciation for the fact that we’re all unique. Lisa and Susan have formed stellar relationships with select boutiques and trendy stores. 26 <strong>Inside</strong> <strong>Chappaqua</strong> May 2013 By Michall Jeffers Editor’s Note: <strong>Inside</strong> <strong>Chappaqua</strong> asked long time contributor and cultural journalist Michall Jeffers to catch up with two new teams <strong>of</strong> women business partnerships who are changing lives in and around town! Here are her two reports! Gamechanger: Two Moms Match Up Kids with the Right Expert “Our goal is to empower the wellrounded child,” explains Marilyn. “We vet all the teachers, coaches, everyone connected with helping give kids the ultimate experience,” adds Deborah. “We’re committed to matching up youngsters with just the right person to help them achieve success. We make sure that prices are competitive, and that only the best people are on our rosters for coaching in bar and bat mitzvahs, organizing children’s parties, teaching languages. Very <strong>of</strong>ten, parents start by seeking help with academics; when they understand how easily and quickly we can provide other great prospects for their kids, they branch out.” <strong>The</strong>y do the shopping, and bring you fabulous clothing and accessories to replace and to implement your wardrobe. <strong>The</strong>ir clients come from New York, as well as Westchester, and span all ages–the oldest was a chic 82! And they know their stuff; “It’s so fun reading fashion magazines, and we study them all” declares Lisa. “We get a lot <strong>of</strong> inspiration online, and by watching the style shows on TV. I think Rachel Zoe is terrific, for example,” pr<strong>of</strong>fers Susan. Gamechanger collects a commission from their proven experts, not from the families they help. “We value creating a work/life balance for ourselves, so we understand how important it is to free up valuable time for our clients,” Deborah says thoughtfully. Marilyn smiles, “We’re very regimented and organized, and we’re experts at networking. It’s all about giving your child the ultimate advantage, which is the goal <strong>of</strong> every parent.” “Gamechanger,” uwn@gamechangernow.com; 914 449-6772 “Stylecycle” Takes the Angst Out <strong>of</strong> Dressing Great Trends for the coming season? <strong>The</strong>se experts advise that large accessories are in, leather is hot, and cropped pants show <strong>of</strong>f trim ankles. Susan advises, “Store the platform shoes; buy lower pumps for jeans and dresses; pointy toes are back. Floral prints are big, but you have to be careful; they’re not for everybody.” Lisa counsels. “Black and white and graphics are much easier for everyone to wear. You don’t have to spend a fortune, especially on trends.” We all get stuck in a certain time frame when it comes to how we present ourselves. <strong>The</strong> mission <strong>of</strong> StyleCycle is to gently guide us “to that next phase <strong>of</strong> dressing beautifully for our age, shape, and lifestyle,” <strong>of</strong>fers Susan. “And once women realize how much more comfortable this is, they embrace it,” agrees Lisa. info@stylecycle.com or susan@stylecycle.com; 914 953-4141 or 914 522-1158 Michall Jeffers eponymous cable TV show is syndicated throughout the tristate area, and features celebrity interviews, reviews, and commentary. www. michalljeffers.com
Riverside Memorial Chapel WESTCHESTER: 21 West Broad Street, Mount Vernon, New York 10552 Just <strong>of</strong>f Exit 7 <strong>of</strong> the Cross County Parkway East 914-664-6800 <strong>The</strong> Source <strong>of</strong> Support for the Jewish Community Since 1897 www.riversidememorialmountvernon.com Charles S. Salomon • Joel E. Simon Continuing to maintain the high service standards <strong>of</strong> the Rosenthal, Grossberg, and Alpert families May 2013 <strong>Inside</strong> <strong>Chappaqua</strong> 27
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