Well, it’s time for another stroll through our beloved town! After the warm response to last month’s feature, I’m thrilled to continue highlighting some of the amazing merchants who make DeLand such a special place to live.

In June, I celebrated the faces and stories behind three wonderful businesses and, this month, I’ll introduce you to three more. Each of these individuals brings a unique charm and contributes to the rich tapestry of our community. Their dedication and warmth transform DeLand from a town into our cherished home.

All summer long, I’ll continue this journey of showcasing the heart and soul of our neighborhood. These stories remind us that it’s the people who truly make DeLand shine. So, for this month’s column, I invite you to meet a few more people in your neighborhood.

This time, we’ll begin our journey heading north on the Boulevard. First up is Chelsea Jo Conard, owner of Bodhi + Sol, our local center for relaxation, beauty, yoga, healing and, above all, community.

Bodhi + Sol is a wellness center as well as a retail and wholesale line of essential oils and custom-blended products. Bodhi + Sol offers massage therapy, organic facials, yoga, acupuncture, a botanical head spa, and an infrared salt and crystal vault sauna.

You can find me there twice a week doing yoga and, for this, both my troubled back and I are very thankful.

Originally earning her degree in musical theater, Conard began her journey in wellness while living in New York City pursuing her acting career. She got her certification as a holistic health and nutrition counselor and began her own business, Artful Balance, working with those in the arts community to help them discover how to properly care for themselves through nutrition and wellness.

Chelsea’s husband, Danny, received a job opportunity in Florida, and they couldn’t pass up life’s next adventure presenting itself. While continuing to work one-on-one with clients, Chelsea also began managing a small yoga studio in St. Augustine.

She quickly realized that she was made for the job of managing a wellness center, became an owner, and helped grow the business to an 8,000-square-foot facility, with two yoga studios and 10 treatment rooms.

Bodhi + Sol DeLand was opened as a second location in 2019, but COVID had other plans for the business in 2020. Chelsea had to let go of her flagship location in St. Augustine and, with persistence and love, was able to hang onto the DeLand location. Her passion for helping others in their wellness, and a drive for always improving, coupled with her wonderful staff, have made Bodhi + Sol the haven of wellness it has now become.

When I asked her for a recipe to share, she asked, “Well, can it be something that’s non-edible?”

That got me very intrigued. And so, here is the first-ever recipe that you won’t want to eat. Yet, I assure you that in this heat, you will want to use it everywhere you possibly can!

Chelsea’s Chill Out Body Mist

From Chelsea: Perfect as a body spray or a mist for the back of the neck (or even a room spray), this Chill Out Body Mist will keep you cool during the summer months.

You will need: 4 oz. spray bottle, 1 oz. witch hazel, 3 oz. distilled water, 18 drops orange essential oil, 6 drops peppermint essential oil, 7 drops vetiver essential oil, and 4 drops lavender essential oil

To make: Combine all ingredients in a 4-ounce spray bottle. Shake well with each use, and spray this cooling mist when you need a quick pick-me-up and reprieve from the hot summer sunshine. Ideally, a dark glass bottle is best; keep out of direct sunlight/heat when stored.

Continuing down the same side of the Boulevard, a short walk will bring you to The Anointed Olive. Wendy Caroen LaRocca is the owner of this olive oil and gourmet paradise. As someone who loves to cook (and eat), this was one of the first stores I visited when we moved here. With oils, vinegars and specialty items from around the globe, it’s a foodie’s dream come true. They offer complimentary tastings of all their custom oils and vinegars. Looking to sample the world while staying in your hometown? This is the place.

Here’s Wendy’s story: “I’ve lived in and around DeLand since the mid- to late-1980s. I went to high school here, raised my son here, and have spent most of my adult life working in this vibrant town. DeLand is our home.

“The journey of opening my store began when my husband decided to leave his job. I knew we couldn’t just do nothing for years. I wanted to contribute to my community and create something to pass on to my son. With this vision, I founded The Anointed Olive, which has now been serving DeLand for seven years.

“The business has flourished, expanding to include a location in Ormond Beach, which I purchased in 2019. This year, we added wine to our offerings.

“We enjoy our community and believe in our products. With a strong foundation and a passion for giving back, I look forward to many more years of serving and enhancing the community I love.”

Given Wendy’s accessibility to some of the world’s finest oils, vinegars and ingredients, I was curious to see what recipe she would share. And, I have to say, it’s a winner! During these sweltering months when all you crave is something light, cool and refreshing, this recipe is it.

As Wendy says, “I chose the Peach Summer Caprese Salad because it makes a delicious alternative to the traditional caprese salad. It’s light, crisp and fresh, ideal for the summer season.”

I wholeheartedly agree.

Summer Peach Caprese Salad

Our last stop barely needs an introduction. In fact, I’m pretty sure we can all agree that it’s the sweetest place in town.

Pat and Toni’s Sweet Things is owned by David and Michelle Zangenberg. A staple in Downtown DeLand for years, Pat and Toni’s Sweet Things was purchased from the original owners by the Zangenbergs in September 2020. David has worked in the candy and snack industry for more than 25 years, and Michelle’s family has resided in DeLand for generations.

With the knowledge of our town and all things sweet, David and Michelle have brought Pat and Toni’s Sweet Things to the next level.

Since 2020, Pat and Toni’s Sweet Things has been published in AAA, The Guide to Florida (Winner: Best of Florida Candy Store). They have been featured in CoolCraft Summer drink competitions, partnered many times with the Athens Theatre, and made countless custom orders for events and weddings.

David and Michelle hope to continue to bring in new and innovative treats to DeLand. From candy cigarettes and chocolate-covered bacon, to freeze-dried candy and open-faced s’mores, there is something for everyone at Pat and Toni’s Sweet Things.

When I asked David if he’d like to be a part of this month’s column, he was quick to say yes, and I wondered what sweet treat he would share. While you might think their recipe would include something chocolate, his lovely wife, Michelle, shared one of their family’s favorite recipes. It’s delicious, a crowd-pleaser, incredibly simple, and like everything else we’ve featured in this month’s column, it’s ideal for battling the summer heat!

Michelle’s Fruit Dip

Ingredients: 1 8-ounce block of cream cheese (room temperature); 1 7-ounce jar of marshmallow crème; 

From David Zangenberg: “As simple as it is delicious, this two-ingredient dip is a family favorite. Michelle brings her fruit dip to gatherings in her trusty Tupperware divided fruit and vegetable tray that is as welcome a sight at parties as she is.

“Pair with your favorite fruits for a sweet addition to any event. Our favorites are strawberries, raspberries and pineapple, but often include melon, apples, or whatever fruit looks fun or is in season.

“Start by beating your cream cheese in a medium bowl with a hand mixer until smooth. Add in the full jar of marshmallow cream and continue beating until fully incorporated and smooth.

“For a festive addition, add in a few drops of food coloring! Michelle has made pink and blue for baby showers, and a variety of colors for holidays and birthdays.”