Travel

Reality TV Vacation Hot Spots in Mexico and the Caribbean

Ever wonder where reality TV stars escape for their beach vacations? While some jet off to private islands, many of the stunning resorts you've seen on your favorite shows are surprisingly accessible—and perfect for your next luxurious getaway. Whether you're dreaming of a romantic escape or a trip with friends, here’s where to vacation like a reality star—no Bravo drama required.Read on to discover some of our favorite escapes from reality, or check out our Top 5 Caribbean Islands for a Luxury...

Food + Beverage

Styled to Serve

Where fashion meets flavor and presentation is everything Article by Katarina Brewer | Photography by Krier Photo When it comes to fashion and design, style isn’t limited to your outfit—it continues to the table. Just ask Kayley and Tyler Adams, the creative husband-and-wife duo behind Essential Eats Grazing LLC, a local catering company that turns food into an art form. Known for their beautifully styled grazing tables and thoughtful presentation, they bring elevated design and bold flavor to...

Beauty

Where Beauty Meets Heart

From military service to empowerment through care and confidence Article by Katarina Brewer | Photography by Krier Photo Merle Norman Cosmetics is a name with deep roots in the beauty world. Founded by Merle herself during the Great Depression, the brand has been trusted for generations. Still family-owned and proudly made in the USA, Merle Norman offers high-quality skincare and cosmetics backed by nearly a century of innovation.  But for Briana Lutes, what truly sets Merle Norman apart is...

Event Planning + Services

Design in Full Bloom

Creating meaningful designs for life’s most special moments Article by Katarina Brewer | Photography by Provided With a passion for detail and design, Amie Fleming—the owner of Fleming Floral Station—brings a thoughtful, artistic approach to every arrangement. Her florals are expressive and elegant, capturing both emotion and atmosphere. “I love the way flowers make you feel,” Amie shares. “They capture a memory in sight and smell.” That emotional connection fuels her passion for creating...

Home + Design

Living a Legacy

Building on a family tradition one project at a time Article by Breanna Hicks | Photography by Provided, Kiera Meloy Photo When Jeremy, a Firefighter/Paramedic, and Breanna, a Crime Thriller Author, began dating in 2021, they quickly discovered they shared more than just a spark. They both had a passion for woodworking, leather design, and refurbishing. They started by building bird houses for their family, and before they knew it, J+B Wood Work and Designs was born.  While they still love to...

Entertainment

Trunk Or Treat

Join us for a storybook adventure this Halloween season at Sage Door Realty! We’re opening our parking lot for a FREE Children’s Book-Themed Trunk or Treat — where beloved tales come to life and treats are just the beginning.🎃 Event Highlights:Decorated trunks inspired by favorite children's booksFun photo ops and costume magicA whimsical way to meet your neighborhood real estate team!🕒 Date & Time: October 31st, 4:30 - 6:00pm📍 Location: 1920 NW Copper Oaks Circle, Blue Springs, MO...

Local Services

Bags That Change Lives

Helping kids chase dreams with sports gear and support Article by Katarina Brewer | Photography by Provided For many kids, sports offer more than just fun—they build confidence, teach teamwork, and open doors to opportunity. But for underprivileged youth, the cost of equipment can be a major barrier. That’s where Build A Bag Foundation steps in. Brooklynne Simbeck, a former standout softball pitcher and seasoned pitching coach, founded Build A Bag Foundation, a Kansas City-based nonprofit...

Education

Where Learning Meets Joy

A Blue Springs preschool built on heart, curriculum, character and community for every child Article by Mary King | Photography by Janie Jones When Doug and Nicole Markussen first considered opening a preschool, they weren’t looking to become entrepreneurs — they were looking for a place where their own children could thrive. As Blue Springs residents and parents of three young kids (with a fourth on the way), they wanted a nurturing, structured environment that felt like an extension of home...

Education

Empowering Dogs. Supporting Owners. Strengthening Bonds.

Personalized guidance that builds lasting bonds, confident dogs, and empowered owners Article by Katarina Brewer | Photography by Amanda Krier Chuck Klingsick never expected to change careers—or find a new calling. After working in the IT industry for 30 years, a series of health issues prompted him to reevaluate his priorities. Stepping away from his long-time career to focus on his well-being, Chuck found himself searching for a new path—one that would bring purpose, fulfillment, and a fresh...

Life + Culture

Down the Rabbit hOle

A literary wonderland that’s redefining how kids (and grown-ups) experience storytelling Article and Photography by Katie Currid While childhood can have memories of family vacations, an obsessively-watched cartoon or a favorite toy opened on Christmas morning, there’s something uniquely transporting about opening a book you read as a kid. Children’s books are enjoyed over and over, and remind us of times in our childhood bedrooms, sitting on an adult’s lap and the coziness of that time of...