FLM
FLM
Fete Lifestyle Magazine
Publisher's Note
Every year, our Women’s Issue inspires me to pause and reflect on the women who have shaped my life. This year, my thoughts return again and again to my mother.
The older I get, the more I see how much of her lives in me. From her love of entertaining to her signature sense of style, my mother’s influence shows up in unexpected ways.
Growing up in a small town in Ohio, our home was the hub of a lot of family celebrations, cookouts, birthdays, and some holidays. My mom would clean out the garage, set up tables, chairs, a boom box, and games for the kids. Everyone had something to enjoy. I didn’t realize it then, but I was learning. By college, I was hosting get-togethers in our off-campus apartment. Later, in my own apartments and homes. There’s something so special about opening your door, welcoming people in, and allowing folks to have a good time. I got that from her.
She was also the ultimate hustler—working two jobs and still managing to host garage sales to fund family vacations and reunions. Watching her find a way, always, no doubt instilled that same drive in me. I carry that hustle with pride.
And then, there was her style. She had a fashion sense all her own—bold colors, unexpected pairings, and pieces she’d sometimes sew herself. She pushed boundaries before I even knew what that meant. These days, I do the same. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t. But like her, I wear it with confidence and without apology.
My mom was generous—sometimes to a fault. She gave even when she had little to give. I’ve inherited that too, though I’ve learned to be more discerning over time. Still, the heart of her giving spirit was instilled in me.
Beyond my mother, I’ve been blessed by the presence of many incredible women—my grandmothers, aunts, teachers, mentors—each leaving an imprint on who I’ve become. Today, I salute them all.
To the women who raised us, inspired us, stood by us, and lit the path ahead—thank you. And here’s to the next generation of women paving the way so our sons and daughters can live fuller, better lives.
Yes—girls do run the world.
D.C.
In Her Footsteps
On the Cover: Val Warner
Photo Credit: James Gustin
Location: ROOF on theWit Hotel Chicago, IL