The Creators
Crystal Drennon
Author, Founder & Executive Director
Cherise Mcclimans
Illustrator & Vice President
Chief Imagination OfficerEvie
Author, Founder & Executive Director
Crystal is a licensed psychotherapist specializing in perinatal mental health, working primarily with mothers and families. Before becoming a therapist, she worked as a doula, supporting families through pregnancy, birth, and the transition into parenthood.
Her educational background is in Health Science and Social Work, and over the years she has worn many hats—from photographer and doula, to practice manager and creative maker. She believes that learning should be engaging, approachable, and fun.
Working with children has been a constant throughout Crystal's life. Before entering the mental health field, she spent six years as a nanny and also worked in daycare settings, giving her the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with children of all ages. Those experiences taught her the importance of creativity, patience, connection, and meeting children where they are.Hi, I'm Crystal Drennon!
Outside of her professional roles, she's most proud to be the mother of two amazing daughters. Her family's journey took an unexpected turn when my daughter Evie began experiencing health concerns that led to months of searching for answers. When Evie was finally diagnosed with celiac disease, she quickly realized how few child-friendly resources existed to help families understand and navigate this life-changing diagnosis.
Crystal considers herself a kid at heart. With a bubbly personality, and playful spirit, Celi the Gluten-Free Dough Buddy was born. Celi-Safe allowed Crystal to bring together her background in mental health, health education, child development, advocacy, and creativity to create something meaningful for children and families living with celiac disease.
Cherise McClimans is a children’s book illustrator, graphic designer, and entrepreneur based in Ohio. With a background in digital art and nearly two decades of creative experience, she specializes in creating warm, whimsical illustrations that help children feel seen, understood, and encouraged.
Cherise has a passion for storytelling that combines heartfelt themes with playful artwork. Her illustrations often feature bright colors, expressive characters, and gentle humor, making complex topics approachable for young readers and their families.
In addition to illustrating children’s books, Cherise is the owner of multiple creative ventures, including a photography editing business and community craft events. She enjoys designing fonts, creating educational resources, and helping others bring their creative visions to life.
When she’s not drawing, Cherise enjoys spending time with her husband, Scott, and their two children, Ana and Lincoln, along with their beloved pets. She is passionate about faith, creativity, and using art to make a positive impact in the lives of children.Hi, I'm Cherise Mcclimans!
Illustrator & Vice President
Celi the Gluten Free Dough Buddy: Understanding Me is especially meaningful to Cherise because of her own experience living with celiac disease, allowing her to bring empathy and authenticity to the illustrations that help children navigate their own journeys with confidence and joy.