Stepping into the world of wellness with authenticity and purpose, Jennifer Craig-Ford shares the compelling story behind Kül Contour Studio, a med spa nestled in the growing Spotsylvania Courthouse area. Her journey from California lawyer to Virginia wellness entrepreneur reveals how personal health challenges became the catalyst for a business focused on honest, supportive approaches to body contouring and self-care.

Jennifer's candid discussion about her own struggles with fibromyalgia, psoriatic arthritis, and weight management in her 50s provides the emotional backbone to her business philosophy. Having experienced firsthand how conventional approaches to health can fail women, particularly those facing hormonal changes and autoimmune conditions, she's created a sanctuary where clients receive both effective treatments and genuine understanding.

The science behind fat loss takes center stage as Jennifer expertly demystifies cryocontouring, explaining how extreme cold permanently destroys fat cells without migration to other body areas. She thoughtfully dispels industry myths about quick fixes, emphasizing the partnership required between provider and client for lasting results. What emerges is a refreshingly honest approach to wellness that acknowledges the complexities of body composition beyond simplistic views of weight gain and loss.

Beyond her thriving med spa, Jennifer's passion for community building shines through her candidacy for the Spotsylvania County School Board and her involvement in local merchant initiatives. Her entrepreneurial wisdom—rooted in identifying genuine community needs and pursuing ventures that spark personal excitement—offers valuable insight for anyone considering their own business journey. Connect with Kül Contour Studio at Külcontourstudio.com or by calling 540-693-2182, and discover what makes this wellness approach uniquely supportive for women navigating health challenges.

Jennifer Craig-Ford

Kul Contour Studio

9108 Old Battlefield Blvd, Suite 100 Spotsylvania, VA, 22553

(540) 693-3218

kulcontourstudio.com

What happens when a philosophy major picks up a saw for the first time after college? For Nick Covert, it sparked a passion that grew into Dream Builders, a thriving 19-year business specializing in custom decks, screened porches, and sunrooms throughout Fredericksburg.

Nick's unexpected journey from academic to entrepreneur forms the heart of this engaging conversation. Unlike many in his field who grew up with tools in hand, Nick discovered construction after completing his degree, finding immediate satisfaction in creating tangible structures and watching projects take shape daily. This fresh perspective gives Dream Builders its distinctive approach, combining practical craftsmanship with a thoughtful understanding of client needs.

The discussion challenges common misconceptions about deck building, revealing why today's outdoor structures are far from simple DIY weekend projects. Nick explains how modern decks require engineering expertise and must navigate complex county-specific building codes. He shares valuable insights about emerging materials and techniques that have revolutionized the industry, moving beyond traditional pressure-treated lumber to innovative metal and composite options.

What truly distinguishes Dream Builders in a competitive market is their commitment to education over high-pressure sales tactics. "If you don't go with us, at least you learn something from us," Nick explains, detailing how consultations focus on empowering homeowners with knowledge rather than pushing for immediate contracts. This refreshingly honest approach, combined with Nick's genuine enthusiasm for his craft, reveals why Dream Builders has earned its reputation as a trusted local business.

Want to see samples of decking materials and railing options in person? Visit their showroom at 77 Cool Springs Road in Fredericksburg, check out dreambuildersofva.com, or call (540) 295-4111 to learn how they can transform your outdoor living space.

Nick Covert

Dream Builders

(540) 295-4111

77 Cool Spring Road Fredericksburg, VA, 22405

dreambuildersofva.com

Tired of sifting through piles of unqualified resumes? Meet Kirstin Purcell, founder of Handshake in Heels, who's revolutionizing how businesses approach talent acquisition in Fredericksburg and beyond.

Kirstin joins the Fredericksburg Neighbors Podcast to shatter the biggest myth in recruiting: that posting a job online is enough to attract quality candidates. "The best candidates aren't actively looking—they're being pursued," she explains, highlighting why strategic recruiting requires much more than a well-written job advertisement. As a talent consultant rather than just a recruiter, Kirstin helps businesses build teams that align with their mission, culture, and long-term vision.

Her journey into specialized recruiting came after an unexpected layoff from her corporate position—a challenge that became the catalyst for fully committing to Handshake in Heels. This modern recruiting and consulting firm focuses on removing the guesswork from hiring through a blend of strategy, industry insights, and genuine human connection. For Kirstin, it's about building partnerships rather than transactions, guiding companies through everything from crafting compelling job descriptions to aligning their talent strategy with business objectives.

What strikes you most in this conversation is Kirstin's practical wisdom for anyone facing career transitions or considering entrepreneurship: "Start before you feel ready. Perfection is a myth, and waiting for it only delays your growth." Her advice to take "messy action" reminds us that building anything meaningful—whether a business or a team—is a journey of continuous learning rather than a race to perfection.

Want to elevate your company's hiring approach or build a team that truly fits your organization's culture? Connect with Kirstin through her website at www.handshakeinheels.com or find her on Facebook and LinkedIn to discover how strategic recruiting can transform your business.

Kirstin Purcell

Handshake in Heels

kpurcell@handshakeinheels.com

handshakeinheels.com