Arts + Culture

Tontitown Grape Festival

On History, Community, and Tradition Article by Bo Simpson | Photography by Tontitown Archives, Brenda Pianalto The first Tontitown Grape Festival occurred as a Thanksgiving celebration at the turn of the twentieth century. Just two months ago, it celebrated its 126th anniversary. For generations, people have come together in Tontitown, Arkansas, to listen to music, play games, eat spaghetti, and spend time with each other—family, friends, and strangers alike. It’s a place where culture comes...

Food + Beverage

A Hint of Midnight

Talking Crow Coffee Roaster's Black Sesame Vanilla Latte Article and Photography by Carol Blanchet A fall ritual in a cup — this caffeine-free latte pairs velvety decaf espresso with house-made black sesame vanilla syrup for a nutty, toasty sweetness that lingers beyond the last sip. For the Simple Syrup: 1 cup dark brown sugar 2 Tablespoons black sesame powder 1 vanilla bean pod, split and scraped 1 cup of water Combine all ingredients and bring to a boil, stirring often so sugar doesn’t...

Wellness

Beauty on the Menu?

Get to know the Aesthetica Team Article by Lauren Fortenberry | Photography by Q Photography at MAQ Studios Chantal Crosse-Sumlin, APRN Chantal Crosse-Sumlin, RN, FNP-C, earned her nursing degrees from Columbus State University and the Medical College of Georgia. With expertise in preventative care and aesthetics, she helps clients achieve their goals while building lasting connections. Britt Erickson – Esthetician Britt, a Northwest Arkansas native, graduated from Ark Beauty Academy in...

Food + Beverage

Springdale After Dark

Wine, brews, and cocktails worth staying up for. Article and Photography by Bo Simpson Springdale’s bar scene may come alive after dark. But despite what the title suggests, locals and visitors can still enjoy a drink before the sun goes down. 1.At Sassafras Springs Vineyard and Winery, the rustic scenery of sloping fields, flowing creeks, and towering trees make for a refreshing glass of wine as sunlight filters through the canopy. Sitting outdoors as the first fallen leaves scatter in the...

Food + Beverage

For the Love

For the Love is a place where loving your neighbor becomes a reality, where community means family Article by Bo Simpson | Photography by Bo Simpson, For the Love Some things are simply part of being human. Hunger is one of them. And while eating alone isn’t unusual, there’s something deeply familiar about sharing a meal with others. From the beginning of time, people have gathered around food—cooking together, passing plates, telling stories. Sharing a meal is more than just filling our...

Home + Design

The Heart of Gathered Goods

Built on a Foundation of Faith and Community Article and Photography by Kenah Smith Together, Michelle Barnes and her mother, Darla, have built more than just a store. They have created a vibrant, welcoming space grounded in their shared love of décor and community connection. Through long nights, hard work, and unwavering faith, this mother-daughter duo brought their vision to life, transforming passion into purpose. Gathered Goods has developed into a well-loved spot in Springdale, but...

Style + Beauty

Sewn for Success

From Tontitown to the National Stage Article by Kenah Smith | Photography by Griffin Fulton Would you believe one of the country’s top couture designers is creating show-stopping gowns right in Tontitown, Arkansas? Stephanie, the creative force behind Violet’s Formal Destination, has designed and styled dresses for six national pageant winners, with gowns sold across the U.S.—even in Hawaii and Alaska. Known for turning fabric into wearable art, she blends precision, imagination, and bold...

Style + Beauty

Where Fashion Meets Vision

The Art of Eyewear at Radiant EyeCare Article by Kenah Smith | Photography by Griffin Fulton In today’s fast-paced world full of ever-changing trends and endless ways to express ourselves, it’s easy to overlook the essentials—like the perfect pair of glasses. At Radiant Eye Care, led by owner Andrea Horne, eyewear is more than a necessity; it’s a bold statement that complements your everyday style. Your closet is filled with shoes for every occasion: running shoes, dress heels, hiking shoes...

Food + Beverage

A Sprig of Flavor

From the Kitchen of Talking Crow Article by Kenah Smith | Photography by Carol Blanchet The Rosemary Maple Latte Carol Blanchet from Talking Crow Roasters shared one of her favorite fall drinks with us! This delicious and refreshing drink can be made hot or cold and pairs beautifully with their rich blends of decaf espresso. Be sure to order your decaf coffee from Talking Crow Roasters and try this stylish drink today!   Ingredients: 1-2 Sprigs of Fresh Rosemary 1 Tablespoon Real Maple...

Arts + Culture

The Treasure Within

How CACHE Illuminates Northwest Arkansas’ Creative Community Article by Bo Simpson | Photography by CACHE Studios CACHE, pronounced like the kind you keep in your wallet, is an abbreviation for “Creative Arkansas Community Hub & Exchange,” but it carries a meaning of even more significance. A “cache” refers to a hidden collection of items, typically of one kind and stored in one place. An example of a cache that we are all familiar with here in Northwest Arkansas ... is Northwest Arkansas...