Local Services

Beyond Skin Deep

Bibi Pillet O’Connell’s journey into medical tattooing and its life-changing impact Article by Becca Abramson | Photography by Lauren Lear When Bibi Pillet O’Connell first discovered medical tattooing, she had no idea it would become her life’s work. Initially a journalist, her journey took an unexpected turn when she began assisting her father, a veterinarian, in tattooing identification numbers on puppies. That early experience with precision and ink sparked something in her. “I was always...

Local Services

Redefining the Glow-Up

Brooke Harris is blending science and self-care in the world of aesthetic medicine Article by Becca Abramson | Photography by Samantha Dahlborg / Studio Citrine Can you share a bit about your background and what led you to start Maine Aesthetic Medicine?  I was raised in the small town of Lee, Maine and knew from 5 years of age I wanted to be a nurse. I graduated in 2015 from University of Maine at Fort Kent and immediately entered the workforce in both the hospital and aesthetic setting...

Local Services

Vivid Vision

Hallie Mitchell on building a business and elevating Maine’s visual landscape Article by Becca Abramson | Photography by courtesy of Vivid Design Studios Hallie Mitchell’s journey into the world of design wasn’t exactly conventional. As the founder of Vivid Design Studios, a thriving Portland-based creative agency, her path has been one of unexpected turns, relentless ambition, and a deep commitment to the local creative community. Mitchell’s interest in art and design took root early, though...

Home + Design

A New Blueprint

Shannon Richards's approach to streamlining real estate, supporting creatives, and leading by example Article by Becca Abramson Shannon Richards doesn’t just build homes—she builds possibilities. The founder of Hay Runner, a real estate, architecture, and construction firm, Richards is redefining what it means to own and maintain property in Maine. With a commitment to simplifying homeownership and fostering a strong creative workforce, she has become a force for innovation in an industry...

Home Services

The Ultimate Home Tech Guide

Stephen Tucker shares the best smart home, security, and entertainment upgrades for a modern, connected lifestyle Article by Becca Abramson For over 35 years, Tucker & Tucker Audio Video by Design has been a frontrunner in integrated home technologies that elevate comfort, security, and entertainment, offering bespoke solutions that cater to the modern homeowner's needs. From state-of-the-art audio/video systems to comprehensive smart home automation, their services are designed to enrich your...

Food + Beverage

Scallop Pesto Pasta

A bright and herby dish that tastes like spring in a bowl Photography by Bon Vivants Creative Serves 2 Prep Time: 15 minutes Total Time: 30 minutes   Pesto 2 cups fresh basil 2 garlic cloves, peeled ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil ¼ cup pine nuts ¼ grated Parmesan cheese Salt and ground black pepper   Scallops  8 large-sized dry sea scallops, side muscles removed 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil Salt and ground black pepper, to taste 1 tablespoon unsalted butter ½ pound...

Finance + Legal Services

Trust the Process

Portland Trust Company CEO Amelia Dow explains what a trust is and whether it can be beneficial for you Article by Amelia Dow Historians think trusts date all the way back to the 12th century. At the time, English landowners who were heading off to war would transfer ownership of their land to another person. In other words, they would “trust” someone else to manage all the responsibilities of land ownership and hold all rights to the property until the original owner’s return. While today’s...

Health + Wellness

Revolutionizing Recovery

Why proactive care like SoftWave therapy leads to lasting results Article by Becca Abramson In a world where we prioritize financial investments, we often overlook the most important one—our health. SoftWave regenerative therapy is emerging as a game-changer in non-invasive treatment, offering promising results for those suffering from neuropathy, chronic pain, and even post-surgical recovery. Dr. Brent Reiche of Active Chiropractic in Saco is leading the charge as the only provider of...

Home + Design

Custom Comfort

The art of upholstery with Pistol Pete and Rachel Schwartz Article by Becca Abramson | Photography by Lauren Lear In a world increasingly dominated by disposable trends, Pistol Pete’s Upholstery Shop in Yarmouth stands as a testament to craftsmanship, longevity, and artful transformation. Founded nearly two decades ago by “Pistol” Pete Faris, the studio has become a hub for thoughtful upholstery in Maine and Boston, blending meticulous technique with a sense of fun and collaboration. Today...

Home + Design

Stage Right

How home staging can unlock the full potential of a property Article by Theresa Bouchard | Photography by courtesy of TS Staging and Design Home staging is an essential part of the real estate process, particularly in competitive markets like southern Maine. Whether you are selling a charming historic home in the West End or a contemporary waterfront property along Casco Bay, staging can make all the difference in how quickly your home sells and at what price. In this article, we’ll explore...