Fitness

Girl Power!

Tara Bennet and Strong Girls Training is empowering tweens and teens to grow stronger—inside and out. Article by Samantha Schoengold Beranbom | Photography by Heidi Curran Photography Sports have always played a central role in Tara Bennett’s life. From soccer and softball to track and field, she grew up immersed in athletics, ultimately becoming an NCAA Division I basketball player. Tara has been coaching in the area since 2017 and credits her upbringing in sports with shaping who she is both...

Food + Beverage

Joy on the Menu

Joylark Kitchen Brings Elevated Plant-Based Dining To Fairfield Article by Samantha Schoengold Beranbom | Photography by Alex Torres | Park City Studios When you first enter Joylark Kitchen, all your senses take over. First, the visual impact of the space is a feast for your eyes. Bold, vibrant and rich, it immediately sparks…well, joy. The aromas coming from the kitchen take over next - a combination of perfectly delicious notes. And then, the menu - all plant-based -  will stop you in your...

Food + Beverage

Joylark Kitchen's Sunset Sour

Photography by Alex Torres | Park City Studios Start the New Year right with a delicious mocktail courtesy of Joylark Kitchen! Sunset Sour Ingredients: 2 oz Grapefruit juice 1 oz Beet juice 1 oz Carrot juice Splash Lemon juice Maple syrup to taste Aquafaba foam  Pro tip : Aquafaba is the liquid from a can of chickpeas. It whips up just like egg-whites and you can spoon it on top of the drink. Directions:  Add all ingredients to a shaker filled with ice. Shake well until...

Health + Wellness

Meet Medi-Weightloss™

A New Option for Personalized Wellness Support Article by Samantha Schoengold Beranbom | Photography by Heidi Curran Photography Looking to begin a wellness journey this year? Now is the time to take the steps to prioritize your health. One option to explore is Medi-Weightloss™, a recent addition to the Fairfield health and well-being scene. Owner and Fairfield County native Karen Lavin opened the practice after deciding to transition from her successful corporate consulting career. "I love...

Travel

Weekend Escapes That Feel Worlds Away

Article by Article by Tory Brown At The 203, we’re all about celebrating the best of every season… and winter is no exception. From ski-town hideaways and lakeside lodges to mountain retreats made for hot-tub hangs, these nearby escapes prove you don’t have to go far to feel worlds away. Whether you’re chasing first tracks, fireside happy hours, or just craving a cozy change of scenery, these spots bring all the winter magic - no flight required!  So grab your warmest layers, pack the car...

Professional Services

Precious Gems

Kasson Jewelers Spans Generations Article by Samantha Schoengold Beranbom | Photography by Dariusz Terepka Photography Jewelry sales always surge during the holiday season, but when it comes to finding the perfect gift, you need trusted experts by your side. That’s where Southport’s own gem, Kasson Jewelers, with its signature blue sign, shines. With expertise that spans generations, they make sure every sparkle counts. The store’s long history is rooted in perseverance and heart. World War...

Shopping

Gifted!

Shop These Female-Owned Brands This Holiday Season Article by Samantha Schoengold Beranbom As you check those lists twice, consider adding gifts from these local, female-founded brands to your holiday cart. From emerging side-hustles to thriving small businesses, these incredible women are building and creating with passion and purpose one inspired idea at a time. Created by local entrepreneur Ashley Langer, Hot Tommies is a fashion-forward heated vest designed for women who refuse to...

Food + Beverage

It's All In The Details

Expert Entertaining Tips from Forks and Fingers Catering Article by Samantha Schoengold Beranbom   Forks and Fingers is a luxury catering company known for elevating every event—whether it's an intimate backyard gathering or a grand gala. Using only the highest-quality, locally sourced ingredients, their team infuses every menu with exceptional flavor and effortless style, adding a touch of chic to any occasion. Getting ready to host for the holidays? Owner Stephanie Lefrancois shares her...

Health + Wellness

Redefining Wellness

Inside Fairfield Family Health Article by Samantha Schoengold Beranbom | Photography by Abby Cole Photography We’ve all been there: sitting forever in the waiting room, only to finally get moved to an exam room where the waiting starts all over again. By the time the doctor comes in, the visit feels rushed, leaving you with little clarity about what’s truly going on and yet another prescription in hand.  Dr. Jaquel Patterson is changing that narrative, redefining healthcare and the patient...

Life + Culture

Designing With Purpose

How SVP Partners Support Veterans and Build Community Beyond Business Article by Samantha Schoengold Beranbom | Photography by Portraits by Dariusz Terepka Photograpy Bob Vitale and Cindy O'Neill are partners in life and collaborators in business at SVP Partners, a communications design firm. Launched in 1998 by Bob and his co-founders, Jean Page and Randy Smith, Cindy joined as a partner in 2021, bringing her creative, production, and business management expertise. The visionary couple...