Education

Summer Memories Made

RARA helps children grow while creating memories that last a lifetime. Article by Jennifer Lee | Photography by Provided by RARA Summer in the Midwest has a unique way of shaping childhood. It’s the season of new friendships, endless laughter, scraped knees from outdoor adventures, and memories that stay with us long after the school year begins again. For thousands of families across Rochester, Rochester Hills, and Oakland Township, those memories are being made every day through the programs...

Life + Culture

Wag N' Wash

More Than a Pet Store: Wag N' Wash Rochester's Commitment to Pets, Families and Community Article by Jennifer Lee | Photography by Jessica Snow Walk into Wag N' Wash Rochester on any given day and you'll likely be greeted by wagging tails, smiling faces, and maybe even a few muddy paws headed for a self-wash station. But what makes this local business so special isn't just the premium pet food, grooming services, treats, or toys. It's the feeling that you've walked into a place where pets...

Life + Culture

Three Moons Farm

A place to find connection without all of life's distractions. Article by Jennifer Lee | Photography by Jessica Snow Some places feel different the moment you arrive. Maybe it's the quiet. Maybe it's the horses grazing in the distance, the grass swaying in the wind or the gentle reminder that life doesn't always have to move so fast. At Three Moons Farm, nestled among open spaces and natural beauty, visitors quickly discover that this is more than a farm. It's a place built on connection...

Arts + Culture

Sixty Years of Tradition:

Celebrating the Art & Apples Festival Article by Jennifer Lee | Photography by Jessica Snow, Orignals by PCCA Some traditions become so deeply woven into the fabric of a community that it is difficult to imagine life without them. For generations of families throughout Rochester and beyond, the Art & Apples Festival is one of those cherished traditions. For sixty years, families have celebrated the arrival of fall with a visit to Rochester Municipal Park. Children who once explored artist...

Life + Culture

Love for a Child

Changing the Story for Michigan's Foster Children Article by Jennifer Lee | Photography by Love For A Child Love For A Child began with a simple truth: every child deserves to be seen, celebrated, and loved—especially those who feel forgotten. For thousands of children in Michigan's foster care system, life can feel uncertain. Many have experienced abuse, neglect, abandonment, or trauma far too young, moving between homes, schools, and caregivers while carrying burdens no child should bear. ...

Arts + Culture

Life On The Road With Comedian Mike Young

Adventures in Stand Up Comedy Article by Mike Young | Photography by Sarah Rice Photography This is what happens when comedians write. “Mike, at your core, what do you live, breathe, and think about every day?” Then it hit me: STAND-UP COMEDY. That’s it. That’s my world. That’s why I came to Los Angeles. That’s what makes me tick. That’s my passion. If it wasn’t for stand-up, I would never have met and opened for Bob Saget for thirteen years and had him introduce me to John Stamos, who...

Arts + Culture

THE SUMMER OF MAHJ

A centuries-old tradition finds new life through curated luxury experiences Article by Rochester City Lifestyle Team | Photography by RCL Team & Detroit Promotions Mahjong is becoming one of the country’s fastest-growing social trends — inviting people to explore connection in an entirely new way. Originating in 19th-century China, Mahjong has long been rooted in tradition, strategy and multigenerational gatherings centered around community and conversation. Across the United States, Mahjong...

Travel

ESCAPE BEAUTIFULLY

Northern Michigan getaways that feel like home. Article by The Rochester City Lifestyle Team | Photography by Luke Datema, Datema Media INTRO Northern Michigan travel is becoming less about where you stay and more about how you experience it. Olivia Elias, alongside her husband Basel Elias and close friends Adam and Lindsey Cole, is creating thoughtfully designed retreats that invite guests to slow down, reconnect and explore some of Northern Michigan’s most charming destinations. ORA...

Life + Culture

FROM FLOWERS TO FARTHER PLACES

How one Rochester couple unexpectedly entered the global floral industry Article by The Rochester City Lifestyle Team | Photography by Jason & Mary Bigham If you had told Jason and Mary several years ago that flowers would completely reshape their lives, they probably would not have believed you. Mary spent more than a decade as an elementary educator, where she developed a love for creativity, thoughtful experiences and the small details that make people feel connected. Jason built his...

Travel

SMALL CITY, BIG FASHION

OMONI Boutique brings big-city style to the heart of Bay City Article by Jessica Hill & RCL Team | Photography by Katie Neymeiyer, Laur Nash Jessica Hill’s love for fashion began long before opening OMONI Boutique in 2016. Adopted from South Korea at age 5, Jessica says fashion once helped her fit in, but eventually became a way to embrace her individuality. Her love for fashion began at an early age, shaped by the insecurities she experienced as an adopted Korean girl wanting to fit in with...