Celebrating the Talent Shaping Everyday Style in the Mohawk Valley
Across the Mohawk Valley, a new generation of entrepreneurs and creatives is redefining what style, leadership, and community look like. For this issue’s Style Makers cover, we spoke with local professionals whose work shapes the way our region shops, celebrates, and expresses personal style.
Style in the Mohawk Valley has never been about chasing what is happening somewhere else. It is about confidence, craftsmanship, and the people who shape how our community presents itself every single day. Their work blends science and creativity. It requires technical precision, vision, and trust. They help clients feel polished for milestones and comfortable in their own skin on an ordinary Tuesday. That impact runs deeper than appearance.
In Men’s and Women’s Style, we celebrate the boutique owners and style leaders who understand the rhythm of this region. They know how to curate pieces that work for real lives: professional wardrobes, weekend gatherings, date nights, charity galas, and community events. They help clients build closets that reflect personality, ambition, and individuality. Great style is not about excess. It is about intention.
In Jewelry and Accessories, we honor the makers and jewelers who understand that the smallest details often create the strongest statement. A signature necklace. A custom ring. A classic watch. A perfectly chosen handbag. These finishing touches tell stories. They mark achievements, celebrate milestones, and become part of personal identity.
From aesthetics and beauty artistry to hair design and color, these professionals refine skin, perfect cuts, restore confidence, and transform routine appointments into meaningful experiences. They help clients prepare for life’s biggest moments while also elevating everyday routines.
Together, these Style Makers represent more than successful businesses. They represent vision, resilience, and entrepreneurship in the Mohawk Valley. They are building teams, investing in storefronts, and shaping the aesthetic of our region one client at a time. This issue celebrates their artistry, their dedication, and the way they quietly influence how we look, how we feel, and how we show up in the world.
Style Makers Spotlight
Meet the five professionals featured on this issue’s cover, each representing a different dimension of style in the Mohawk Valley. Joanne Fanelli of Joanne Fanelli Salon, Steve Lennon of Steve Lennon & Co., Connor Roth of A. Vitullo, Amanda Stewart of Luxx Glo Beauty Bar, and Jen Bailey of Worthy Oneida have each built businesses rooted in craftsmanship, service, and a deep understanding of the people who live and work in this region.
From precision hair design and advanced aesthetics to fine jewelry and curated fashion, their work helps clients express individuality and confidence in ways that feel both elevated and authentic to everyday life in the Mohawk Valley.
For this special feature, we asked our Style Makers to reflect on the journey that brought them here, the philosophy that guides their work, and what inspires them as they continue shaping style in the Mohawk Valley.
Joanne Fanelli
Owner, Joanne Fanelli Salon
Joanne Fanelli has been shaping the Mohawk Valley’s style for decades through her work as a master stylist and salon owner. Known for thoughtful consultations, precision haircutting, and timeless styles that clients can maintain beyond the salon, she continues to blend artistry, practicality, and experience behind the chair.
On how her journey began
As a teenager I became fascinated with haircutting. High school offered Cosmetology in grade 11. At the end of my senior year I completed my required hours and obtained my temporary license to practice at the age of 17.
On building a career in the Mohawk Valley
I’d say the answer goes back to several reasons. I was comfortable here, the only place I knew at the time and called home. I had already started to build a client base that I felt was growing rapidly.
Her philosophy when working with clients
From day one, I felt that a thorough consultation was the foundation. As a stylist there are many things we need to discuss before cutting, coloring, or doing a change in texture. Sometimes it involves all of the above. Other important factors are styling routine, lifestyle, and maintenance.
What makes great style today
For me, a great style balances beauty with practicality. Clients want hair that looks great not just when they leave the salon, but that they can realistically recreate and maintain at home. When a style enhances someone’s natural features and fits into their daily life, that’s when it truly becomes a great style.
Trends she is seeing in the industry
Among my clients I’m seeing a return to longer hair and more natural, lower-maintenance colors. Soft dimension, blended color, and styles that grow out beautifully are very popular. Clients are also embracing natural wave and curl, while fuller, more voluminous styles are coming back. The roller and the glamorous signature blowdry are returning as well.
I also pay close attention to the evolution of ingredients used in professional hair products and color. I believe it’s important to stay informed about what we use and how those chemicals interact with both hair and the body. While I’m always open to new trends in style and technique, I’m thoughtful when it comes to new technology or ingredients. My priority is always using products and methods that are effective, responsible, and safe for my clients.
Advice for building confidence in personal style
Choose a style that truly works for you rather than trying to replicate someone else’s look. Confidence comes from wearing a style that complements your face shape, your hair’s natural texture, and your lifestyle.
What she loves most about her work
I enjoy being able to do a variety of looks in the course of a day. It keeps my work interesting. I love when clients tell me how much they look forward to their monthly appointment. It’s an honor helping people feel better about themselves and being part of important moments in their lives.
Looking ahead
In November of 2026, I will celebrate 40 years in business. I opened my original one-room salon at 417 James Street in Utica in November of 1986 at the age of 19. Reaching this milestone represents decades of relationships with clients and creativity behind the chair. After all these years, I still truly love what I do and have no plans to retire anytime soon.
Steve Lennon
Owner, Steve Lennon & Co. Jewelers
Steve Lennon continues a family legacy that has shaped the Mohawk Valley’s jewelry landscape for generations. Building on a tradition that began in Utica in 1945, he and his wife Theresa opened Steve Lennon & Co. Jewelers in New Hartford in 2019, combining decades of experience with a modern approach to custom design and personal service.
On how his journey began
As young children, my brother Michael and I often went to work with our father, Rit Lennon. We spent a lot of time in the small 400-square-foot jewelry store that my grandparents, Harold and Mary Alice Lennon, opened on June 6, 1945, at 4 Lafayette Street in Utica, on what was known as the “Busy Corner.” At the time, the original legacy store quickly became a staple in the downtown community.
Growing up in the Mohawk Valley, I was inspired by watching my father’s hard work and dedication to both our family and the business. I was fortunate to work alongside him, as well as my Uncle Harold and my cousin Gary, each of whom taught me valuable lessons about the jewelry industry and the importance of serving our community.
Following in the footsteps of other members of the Lennon family who owned independent jewelry stores, I was inspired in 2019 to create something independent of my own. My wife Theresa and I then opened Steve Lennon & Co. Jewelers at 23 Genesee Street in the Village of New Hartford.
His philosophy when working with clients
Treat everyone as you want to be treated.
What makes great style today
Style is a very personal aspect of our business. Everyone has their own ideas of what is beautiful, how it makes them feel, and what is stylish. It is our responsibility to design the piece as the client sees it and make their vision come to life.
Trends he is seeing in the jewelry industry
One of the biggest changes in recent years has been the rise of lab-grown diamonds. While I was raised on the beauty and rarity of earth-mined diamonds, lab-grown diamonds have become increasingly popular because they have the same physical, chemical, and optical properties but cost significantly less.
Another shift has been record highs and fluctuations in the metals market, especially gold. Manufacturers are adjusting designs by offering alternative metals and lighter styles that still maintain a luxury look while fitting within a client’s budget.
Social media has also transformed how jewelry is marketed and discovered, with many customers finding inspiration online before ever walking into a store.
Advice for building confidence in personal style
Just be yourself and communicate what is most important to you when designing or selecting a piece.
What he loves most about his work
The relationships I have built over the years and the fun of designing pieces.
What being a Style Maker means to him
First and foremost, I am honored to be part of the Mohawk Valley Style Makers. On a more personal note, it is sentimental because my father and grandfather were always on the forefront of bringing style to this area through the years.
Looking ahead
I celebrate the continued support of our community and the wonderful clients we have the privilege of seeing every day.\
Connor Roth
A. Vitullo
Connor Roth represents the next generation of leadership at A. Vitullo, a Utica menswear institution that has served the Mohawk Valley since 1914. After his family purchased the historic business in 2015, Roth immersed himself in every aspect of the trade, from garment care and alterations to client styling. Today he helps guide the store’s evolution while continuing its long tradition of personal service and craftsmanship.
On how his journey began
A. Vitullo’s has been in business since 1914 and has been family owned and operated ever since. The Vitullos did an amazing job for over 100 years. My family purchased the store in 2015 and I’ve been part of the business since I was nineteen years old.
I started by learning the fundamentals, steaming and pressing garments, working in the rental department, and eventually learning how to sew and alter clothing. Over time I moved into the retail side of the business, working directly with clients. Today my role has evolved into more of an ownership position, where I’m involved not only in helping customers but also in shaping the direction of the business.
On building a career in the Mohawk Valley
When I was younger, I wasn’t entirely sure I would build my career here. I was born and raised in the Mohawk Valley, but it wasn’t until I became more deeply involved in the business that I truly appreciated the strength of the local community. There’s an incredible network of small businesses and supportive people here.
His philosophy when working with clients
My approach is relationship-driven. I try to make the experience less transactional and more personal. I want clients to feel comfortable when they walk through the door, to relax, talk, and collaborate on creating something they genuinely love wearing.
What makes great style today
The details make all the difference. Fit and tailoring are key. A well-tailored outfit is everything. Beyond that, great style comes from thoughtful details and intentional choices.
Trends he is seeing in menswear
Since 2020 we’ve seen a major shift toward more relaxed and casually constructed garments. Unstructured jackets and softer silhouettes became very popular. Now we’re seeing a return to more classic elements such as pleated trousers, higher waists, wider-leg pants, and more structured jackets.
Advice for building confidence in personal style
Tom Ford once said, “Never, ever, ever wear anything you are uncomfortable in. Because that is what you’ll project.” Comfort and confidence go hand in hand. At the same time, I encourage people to stay open-minded and experiment a little.
What he loves most about his work
I love the creative side of working with clients to build something that reflects who they are and makes them feel confident. It’s not just about buying a suit because you need one. It’s about creating a wardrobe that feels personal and meaningful.
Looking ahead
I’m incredibly excited about the year ahead. We’ve been expanding and upgrading our custom and made-to-measure offerings, giving clients even more options for personalization and quality. There are also some incredibly exciting developments in the works that I can’t quite reveal yet- but when I can, you’ll be the first to know.
Amanda Stewart, FNP-BC
Owner, Luxx Glo Beauty Bar
Amanda Stewart, FNP-BC, brings a strong medical foundation to the world of aesthetics and wellness. As a board-certified family nurse practitioner with experience in critical care, cardiology, and hospital medicine, she founded Luxx Glo Beauty Bar to combine evidence-based care with advanced aesthetic and regenerative treatments focused on skin health, longevity, and confidence.
On how her journey began
My career began as a nurse tech at St. Elizabeth’s Medical Center, which gave me my first real exposure to patient care and the healthcare environment. From there, I became a critical care nurse and later a board-certified family health nurse practitioner, practicing in cardiology as well as hospitalist medicine and leadership roles. These experiences shaped my clinical foundation and gave me a deep respect for evidence-based care.
Over time, I became increasingly interested in preventative and regenerative medicine, helping people not only treat illness but optimize their health and quality of life. That interest ultimately led me to build Luxx Glo Beauty Bar, where I combine my medical background with advanced aesthetic and wellness treatments focused on skin health, longevity, and confidence.
On building a career in the Mohawk Valley
The Mohawk Valley has truly shaped my career. Early in my training, I had the privilege of learning from incredibly skilled physicians, nurses, and advanced practice providers who invested time in mentoring and guiding me. Their influence shaped the way I practice medicine today and reinforced the importance of supporting others in the profession.
Her philosophy when working with clients
My philosophy is rooted in a whole-body, medically responsible approach. Aesthetics should never be about chasing trends or dramatically altering someone’s appearance. Instead, it’s about restoring balance, supporting skin health, optimizing hormones and wellness, and helping people feel confident in their own skin.
What makes great style today
Great style today is really about authenticity and confidence. When someone feels healthy, rested, and comfortable in their own skin, that confidence becomes their greatest form of style.
Looking ahead
In the coming year, I am most excited about expanding access to whole-body, regenerative care for women in the Mohawk Valley. Many women are balancing careers, families, and countless responsibilities while navigating hormonal changes, fatigue, and skin concerns. My goal is to continue growing services that support women’s health, confidence, and longevity so they can not just live, but truly live well. I am incredibly proud to be building that vision here in the Mohawk Valley.
Jen Bailey
Owner, Worthy Oneida
Jen Bailey founded Worthy Oneida to bring curated luxury resale fashion to the Mohawk Valley, creating a welcoming boutique where women can discover designer pieces, embrace sustainable style, and shop with confidence.
On how her journey began
Worthy was created out of necessity. When I looked around Oneida, there really wasn’t a place for women to shop locally and experience luxury items. I decided to create the kind of store I wished existed, one where women could discover beautiful pieces, feel confident, and enjoy shopping again.
On building a business in the Mohawk Valley
The Mohawk Valley is filled with incredible people and a strong spirit of collaboration. There are so many opportunities here to connect, support one another, and grow together as a community.
Her philosophy when working with clients
I simply treat people the way I would want to be treated. I’ve built Worthy to be the kind of store I would want to shop in: welcoming, fun, and approachable.
Trends she is seeing in fashion right now
Women are really embracing preloved fashion. They love finding beautiful pieces at a great price while also giving those items a second life. It is exciting to see people becoming more mindful about sustainability and value.
What makes great style today
Great style today is about confidence. It is not about chasing trends. It is about wearing what makes you feel like your best self.
Advice for building confidence in personal style
Wear what you love. Meet yourself where you are and choose pieces that make you feel fabulous.
What she loves most about her work
Creating a space where women feel comfortable and empowered. Seeing someone walk in unsure and leave excited about what they found is the best part of what I do.
What being a Style Maker means to her
It is a reminder that anyone can make a difference in their community by seeing a need, filling it, and embracing what excites them. It is also an opportunity to show that women can have beautiful fashion for less while supporting sustainable shopping.
Looking ahead
I am excited to keep building a culture that celebrates shopping local, supporting women, and lifting up small businesses in our community.
