Former HR executive turns passion into purpose with Louisville decorating business ‘Yokie’

By Chris James – When the world shut down and shifted into virtual spaces in 2020 due to the COVID-19 outbreak, Yolanda Reed noticed something happening in the small talk between colleagues. While navigating her role as a C-suite human resources executive, her colleagues often whispered – thinking she couldn’t hear – about the beautifully designed spaces behind her on camera. What they didn’t know was they were getting a first glimpse of a passion that had been quietly blooming since childhood. That passion has a name – Yokie, a décor and design company built [...]

The 65th Art: Neeta Mittal and the Transformative Story of LXV Wines

By: Tabnie Dozier In the golden, rolling hills of Paso Robles, California—where vineyards stretch like brushstrokes across the land, Neeta Mittal is planting and growing her legacy. As one of the first Indian women to own a winery in the United States, Neeta is not simply producing wine; she is sharing a story. Her winery, LXV Wines, is inspired by the ancient Indian concept of the 64 arts—cultural skills that traditionally defined a worldly, expressive, and thoughtful life. At LXV, Mittal believes the 65th art is the one we each write for ourselves. And for [...]

Mike and Sheldon Tomes: From Allies of Women to Derby Ambassadors

Photo by Emily Maddox The Kentucky Derby is one of the most celebrated events in Louisville, and this year, we're thrilled to introduce Mike and Sheldon Tomes as the official Derby Ambassadors for the 151st running of the race. For Mike, fashion, community engagement, and socializing are not just hobbies—they’re a lifestyle. With an eye for style and an innate ability to connect with people, he’s earned his place as a prominent figure, rubbing elbows with celebrities like Paris Hilton, Jack Harlow, and Jamie Foxx. Mike's keen sense of what’s happening, from the [...]

Painting the Derby 🎨 Kim Perry’s 2025 Poster Spotlight

by Gioia Patton/Arts Insider “I'm an artist on a lifelong journey with creativity. From the colorful world of musical theatre to exploring various art forms, I've found my true passion in the strokes of a paintbrush.”  - artist Kim Perry Describing herself as “a traditional painter”, Kentucky Impressionistic Realist Painter Kim Perry works primarily with oils and uses a palette knife to add her own unique touch.  A juried member of the Oil Painters of America, Perry, who is the 2025 Kentucky Derby Festival poster artist, adds  “I love that sweet spot where classic meets [...]

The Rose Gala Returns: A Derby Night Celebration with a Purpose

As the excitement of Derby weekend builds, Louisville is gearing up for one of the most anticipated events of the season. The 2nd Annual Rose Gala, taking place on Saturday, May 3rd from 9PM to 2AM at the KFC Yum! Center, is set to dazzle guests with an unforgettable blend of elegance, music, and community impact. This isn’t just another night out—this is a celebration that gives back. Hosted by the Life Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering underserved communities, the Rose Gala promises to be a night filled with heart and purpose. The event [...]

Celebrating 5 Years of Confidence and Beauty: Bellatox Boutique Derby Prep Party

Julie Bella Robbins, CEO & Founder of BellaTox LLC, has always had a vision: to create a place where relationships blossom and clients become friends. At Bellatox Boutique, this vision comes to life every day. The mantra at Bellatox is simple but powerful: “When you look good, you feel good, and you will leave here feeling like your best self.” This Saturday, Bellatox is celebrating a major milestone—its 5th Anniversary and Julie’s 42nd birthday! Join the celebration on Saturday, April 19th, from 10 AM to 3 PM at Bellatox Boutique, located at 217 [...]

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