Life + Culture

Building Bridges

How our partners are stepping up to support students, artists, and future leaders in the community Article by Becca Abramson All across Portland, businesses are stepping up to make a difference. Between volunteering and supporting young talent, these local professionals are not only expressing their values but also fostering collaboration and empowering future leaders. Here’s how they’re giving back. Portland Trust Company The Locker Project is a local nonprofit that partners with...

Food + Beverage

A Slice of Tradition

Behind the scenes at Two Fat Cats Bakery, where teamwork and passion power Portland's holiday treats Article by Becca Abramson | Photography by courtesy of Two Fat Cats What does it take to prepare 2,000 pies for Thanksgiving and another 1,000 just a few weeks later for the holidays? An incredible team, plenty of freezer space, and hundreds of baking hours. “Holiday production at Two Fat Cats is a pretty big lift, but we’ve been doing it for so long that it’s a well-oiled machine,” says Stacy...

Home + Design

Deck the Halls

Woodland glam is this year's trending holiday aesthetic—here's how to embrace it in your home Article by Allison Frazier Oldham | Photography by Lauren Lear One of the best places to introduce seasonal charm into your home is on the fireplace mantel: it’s the heart of the gathering room, and with just a few thoughtful touches it can set the tone for your entire space. This year, the trend that’s stealing the show is woodland glam—a cozy, magical blend of nature-inspired elements with a touch...

Life + Culture

Festive Finds

Unwrap the best gift ideas of the season from our favorite Maine businesses Article by Becca Abramson Get ready to celebrate the season with our holiday gift guide, featuring thoughtfully curated items in three delightful categories: health and wellness, home and decor, and the vibrant spirit of Portland. Whether you're searching for a wellness boost to get through the winter, charming home accents to brighten up any space, or unique treasures that capture the essence of our town, this guide...

Food + Beverage

Raise a Glass

Old Port Wine Merchants manager Erin Hadwen shares her favorite Thanksgiving pairings Article by Erin Hadwen A Sparkling Wine We love to start our Thanksgiving meal with sparkling wine—it's festive, fun, and gets the party started. We recommend Schramsberg Blanc de Blancs, which is made in the traditional methode champenoise using Chardonnay grapes. It's lightly toasted with sharp acidity. Plus, the owner and winemaker, Hugh Davies, is a Bowdoin grad!   A Real Champagne For the...

Arts + Culture

Arts for All

Portland Ovations associate director Casey Oakes explains how community support for the arts keeps Portland vibrant Article by Becca Abramson If you’ve ever attended a Broadway show, enjoyed a musical performance, or relished a night of theater in Portland, odds are you’re familiar with Portland Ovations, the 94-year-old nonprofit organization making the arts an integral part of community life in the area. Founded in 1931 by a group of music teachers looking to perform at the city’s newest...

Life + Culture

Crafting Community

Local women's group Held explores the importance of connection and purposeful gathering Article by Becca Abramson Tenaya Britton and Mary Beth Golden, both transplants to Portland who moved here without knowing anyone, craved a deeper connection to the place that brought the two of them together. “The first time we met for coffee, we spoke about loving this community that we’re so grateful for,” Golden says. “We wondered how we could create an opportunity that brings people together, drives...

Health + Wellness

Relax, Refresh, Recharge

Wind down the year at these unique New England retreats Article by Becca Abramson Looking to unwind and recharge as the seasons slow down? From personalized wellness getaways to culinary adventures with renowned chefs, these unique New England retreats offer the perfect blend of relaxation and inspiration to help you reconnect with yourself and embrace a healthy lifestyle.   Tops’l Farm Take a gentle pause Disconnect from daily stresses and immerse yourself in nature’s beauty at Tops’l...

Food + Beverage

Pumpkin Crème Brûlée

Enjoy this fall twist on the classic creamy treat Article and Photography by Bon Vivants Creative Serves 8 Ingredients 5 egg yolks ½ cup granulated sugar, plus more for topping 1 cup pumpkin purée 3 cups heavy cream 1 teaspoon vanilla extract ½ teaspoon maple extract ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice ¼ teaspoon salt ¼ cup maple syrup Instructions Preheat oven to 325°F. In a large bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar; set aside. In a medium saucepan over medium-heat, add pumpkin...

Food + Beverage

Beyond the Buzz

Mocktails and low ABV drinks are revolutionizing drinking culture Article by Becca Abramson | Photography by Kadir Avşar In an era where sipping on a cocktail no longer necessitates a buzz, the rise of mocktails and low ABV drinks is redefining what it means to spend a night out on the town. Drinking has evolved to mean more camaraderie and fewer embarrassing moments—and bartenders across town are picking up on the shift. “I started seeing non-alcohol spirits around here about ten years ago...