In an increasingly global world, focusing locally feels deeply meaningful. It allows us to learn about neighbors starting nonprofits at their kitchen tables, small businesses born in basements, and stories of triumph over adversity. Exploring our own backyard is an opportunity to discover something new and celebrate the milestones of the people and community we call home.
At Mason + Deerfield Lifestyle, we have a milestone of our own to celebrate. We’ve highlighted the local stories of the everyday people and places that touch our lives for 100 issues! And we couldn’t have done it without the business partners who support the magazine, the community who share their stories and our team who make it all come to life on our pages month after month.
Mark Andrea: Publisher + Local Franchise Owner
Opening the box of new issues every month is an experience that never gets old. It’s so gratifying to hear from our advertisers who have landed a new sale, nonprofits whose awareness increased after their story was published, or simply "Hey Mark, we loved this month's issue!" It’s rewarding to know we are making an impact, and that empowers us to keep going. Recently, I heard from a nonprofit that is still getting donations from a story published four years ago!
Amanda Stout: Editor + Writer
I love collaborating with talented people and helping their work shine. It sounds cliché, but the people truly are the best part—from my colleagues and the partners who make it all possible to the community members whose stories we share. People rarely get the chance to have their stories told, and with fewer local news outlets, I value the opportunity to highlight real people making a difference.
Karen Andrea: Copy Editor + Writer
In 100 issues, there have been so many incredible stories! In addition to proofreading every issue, I’ve enjoyed writing about some of Mason’s amazing nonprofits and charities: Angel Alley, Live Like Maya, Shine Like Sable and Common Ground Playground. Two additional stories that touched my heart were about Margo Straus, a 107-year-old Holocaust survivor, and Cody Vernon, who restores veterans’ headstones in our local cemeteries.
Jonathan Stout: Anchor Content Coordinator + Writer
I enjoy learning about exciting local developments and meeting the people behind them. I've been lucky to interview and write about a wide variety of movers and shakers within the community, including Badges Drum Shop, Hey Suburbia Records, Mavericks Cards, S.W. Clyborne Co. Provision & Spirits, Luke5Adventures…too many to name!
Natalie Strom: Social Media Manager
A favorite experience was spending about a week visiting our advertising partners at their businesses to create social media content. I was blown away by how welcoming everyone was. While I didn’t grow up in Mason, I’ll always appreciate that working with this magazine has made me feel like a genuine part of the community.
Writers: Nina Weierman + Lisa Fletcher
Nina: I love learning about the extraordinary people who live and work in our community. I feel honored to help tell their stories. I enjoyed spending time with the women behind Love Cakes at Dorothy Lane Market in Mason. Interviewing them onsite and seeing them in action was a special experience.
Lisa: The feature on Dan Rebella, "The Marathon Man,” is one of my favorite stories. His journey was remarkable, and I enjoyed learning what motivated him to keep pushing toward new goals. Writing that story was a reminder that some of the most interesting and inspiring people are right here in our own community.
Photographers: Cathy + Mark Lyons, Jenna Beers, Niki Wise (not pictured)
Jenna: I've met so many inspiring, talented and kind individuals through the magazine. Every photo session is an opportunity to hear someone's story, learn something new and connect with people I may never have met otherwise. I feel incredibly fortunate to capture these community members from all walks of life doing what they love.
Mark: I enjoy working with great folks, meeting new and interesting people in the community and learning more about their stories.
Cathy: I treasure the opportunity to be creative with light, subjects, moments, etc. I love the thrill of possibility. No matter the assignment, I believe the best stories and most meaningful experiences can be found in your own backyard. The Mason and Deerfield communities are the best!