Beauty

The Spa MD

A space dedicated to giving people the gift of feeling their best for over 20 years. Article by Jennifer Lee | Photography by Jessica Snow Photography Dedicated to providing the finest quality aesthetic medical care treatments available, the professional, friendly, expert team founded by board-certified plastic surgeon Joseph E. Mark, MD., has consistently dedicated itself to patients’ comfort, safety, and desired aesthetic results. The Spa MD offers a range of services including...

Life + Culture

Lagniappe and The Big, Bright Light Show

Bright lights, smiling faces and a little something extra to start the holiday season Article by Erica Reagle More than 1 million sparkling lights in every shade of the rainbow illuminate the streets from Thanksgiving week through early January during The Big, Bright Light Show in downtown Rochester, Michigan.    “The Big, Bright Light Show was created to draw attention to downtown Rochester as a holiday shopping destination. Over the years, the show has helped us attract new businesses, as...

Home + Design

Lottie Mae

Finding beauty in the smallest things, and the importance of gathering. Article by Jennifer Lee | Photography by Jessica Snow Photography I happened to stumble upon Lottie Mae this summer when our team was out doing research for another editorial.  As we walked past the window of the cutest little shop tucked off of Auburn road, we knew we had to go in.  Not only did we find the perfect place to shop for treasures, but we also had the pleasure of meeting Jennifer Gallegos, a woman who welcomed...

Food + Beverage

Rosemary Pomegranate French 75

A delightful twist on a classic cocktail that brings warmth and cheer to every toast Article by Shauna Oliverio | Photography by Jessica Snow Photography The rosemary pomegranate French 75 is a festive reimagining of the classic cocktail, perfect for holiday celebrations. Named after a WWI artillery gun for its impressive “kick,” this modern twist incorporates sweet, tart, and earthy aromas, elevating the drink’s crisp, elegant bubbles to new heights.  This unique recipe was created by Erik...

Health + Wellness

Confiding in Community

"Half of small businesses fail before reaching five years. 70% won't see ten."That was the statistic that rang inside my head as a young twenty-something, signing on dotted line after dotted line as I started on my business ownership journey. How uplifting.When my business partner Janelle and I began our venture as fitness studio owners, we were wide eyed and filled with fresh energy. Without yet the responsibilities of family that would come our way in the years ahead, we hit the ground running...

Life + Culture

Dutton Farm

Purpose. Inclusion. Dignity. Article by Jennifer Lee | Photography by Jessica Snow Every once in a while, if you’re lucky, you get the opportunity to spend time in a space that reminds you just how important community is.  That feeling was exactly what we experienced when we got to spend the morning with the team and participants of Dutton Farm. Dutton Farm was founded in 2010 when a local family found themselves with limited options for their daughter, Becca.  Having watched Becca...

Arts + Culture

Paint A Miracle

Transforming lives through art, Paint a Miracle empowers individuals with disabilities to express themselves and inspire others. Article by Shauna Oliverio | Photography by Jessica Snow Nestled in the heart of downtown Rochester, Paint a Miracle stands as a beacon of hope, art, and transformation. The studio’s origin traces back to a fateful day in  May 1985, when Dr. Dale Propson and his son were hit head-on by a drunk driver. This tragedy left Dale with a traumatic brain injury and the loss...

Food + Beverage

Classic Cornbread Dressing

Creating the perfect Thanksgiving side dish with Chef Deb Silver of The Silver Shamrocks Article by Deb Silver | Photography by Jessica Snow For a flavorful and make-ahead Thanksgiving side, this Cornbread Dressing is perfect. Allowing the ingredients to sit in the fridge for a day or two enhances the flavors. While homemade cornbread is best, store-bought works too (opt for a buttermilk-based version). Ingredients - 1 9x12 pan of cornbread, crumbled   - 1 onion, diced   - 2 carrots...

Life + Culture

Dwell

Building Houses and Hope for Families Article by Lori Manry | Photography by Jessica Snow & Ryan Koral For the past thirteen years my husband and I have been slowly renovating our home, as time, money and energy allows. It’s been a labor of love and outpouring of creativity. Built in 1962 on ten acres, it’s got good bones and a legacy we’re carrying on of a large family, adoption, and a story well lived in this beloved Rochester community. We have enjoyed re-creating this house to reflect our...

Food + Beverage

Small town, Big stories

A few of our favorite places and the unique stories behind them. Article by Jennifer Lee | Photography by Jessica Snow Give Thanks The one where customers vowed to continue traditions. Gerald Matthes founded Give Thanks Bakery in 1998 after a successful career in global advertising in New York and Detroit. Born in Germany and raised in England, Gerald pursued his advertising dreams in New York but had learned bread baking early in life. His family's baking tradition began in Braunsbach...