Professional Services

Sharp Cuts, Strong Roots

A new generation honors tradition while creating something entirely fresh. Article by Amanda Knowland | Photography by Kristol Kumar Photography For Pavin Cole, a single haircut shifted the trajectory of his life. When he was 19 years old, Pavin’s best friend, Greg, invited him to a barbershop in McPherson, Kansas. Until that moment, Pavin had never stepped foot inside a barbershop, nor did he fully understand what barbers really did. But as he sat in the chair at Fox and Ash Barbershop...

Auto + Marine

The Adventure Returns

The Toyota Land Cruiser is Back and Ready to Explore Any Terrain Article by Linda Ditch | Photography by Lindsey Wagers/Wagers Photography The Toyota Land Cruiser is often featured in adventure television programs navigating dusty African roads or maneuvering through rainforests. Although the auto company discontinued the model in 2021, its cult following prompted them to reintroduce it. The 2025 version is a four-wheel-drive hybrid vehicle designed to take you anywhere, from rural gravel...

Arts + Culture

Clay Like Me

Trust in God's Plan Helped Evelyn Rocha Find Her Craft Article by Linda Ditch | Photography by Kristol Kumar Photography Just inside the Milk & Honey Coffee Co. entrance is a vibrant display of Clay Like Me handmade earrings. Artist Evelyn Rocha spent the past four years honing her craft to produce her in-demand pieces. Fans flock to the online launches of her latest designs. Topeka City Lifestyle talked with Rocha about how her faith and family inspired her journey. Q: Have you always been...

Life + Culture

Women of Influence

Where Strength Meets Grace, and Vision Transforms our Community Article by Amanda Knowland | Photography by Lindsey Wagers/Wagers Photography Topeka is a city rich with remarkable women who lead, inspire, and uplift those around them. In this special Ladies’ issue of Topeka City Lifestyle Magazine , we celebrate the women who make a lasting impact on our community. Whether through business, philanthropy, advocacy, or leadership, these changemakers embody strength and generosity. Join us as we...

Shopping

Fun Fashion for All

Enjoy Exploring The Newest Feel-Good Styles at Apricot Lane Article by Linda Ditch | Photography by Lindsey Wages/Wagers Photography Stepping into Apricot Lane Boutique is like a breath of fresh air. The bright, cheerful space is full of the latest fashions in styles for all ages. Need a breezy dress for a spring or summer wedding, graduation, or party? What about a wardrobe for a beach vacation? Perhaps you just want something fun to wear to work during warm weather? This boutique is the...

Arts + Culture

The Art of Investing

Finding Beauty and Value in Topeka’s Local Art Galleries Article by Kelsey Huber | Photography by Kristol Kumar When it comes to investing, most people think of stocks, real estate, or retirement funds. But in the heart of Topeka, two gallery owners see art as an investment with its own unique rewards—both financial and deeply personal. Stephen Smith of Stephen Smith Gallery and Bob Swain of Beauchamp's Art Gallery believe that while art can hold monetary value, its greatest return comes in...

Real Estate

McFarland Farm

A Lasting Tribute Article by Kelsey Huber | Photography by First Showing Photography To truly appreciate the rich history of McFarland Farm, one must go back nearly a century to the early days of Topeka. The previous owner of the land and patriarch of the McFarland family was Dr. Kenneth McFarland, a nationally renowned speaker and Kansas native. He earned a bachelor's degree from Pittsburg State College of Kansas in 1927, followed by a master’s degree from Columbia University in 1931 and a...

Life + Culture

Investing in the Community

How Advisors Excel is Breathing New Life into West Ridge Mall Article by Amanda Knowland | Photography by Lindsey Wagers Since 1988, West Ridge Mall has been an integral part of Topeka’s retail scene. More than a shopping destination, it was a gathering place, a space for shared experiences, and, in some cases, the backdrop to a love story. Now, thanks to the vision and investment of Advisors Excel (AE), the mall is poised for a remarkable revival - a transformation that will not only impact...

Professional Services

EJ’s Sportscards and Collectibles

Passion for sports cards turned business: connecting collectors and fueling the thrill of the hunt Article by Amanda Knowland | Photography by Lindsey Wagers For Eric Finck, business and passion go hand in hand. By day, he’s a Farmers Insurance agency owner, helping people navigate their insurance needs. But outside the office, his lifelong love of sports collecting has led to his second venture—EJ’s Sportscards and Collectibles, a space where collectors buy, sell, and trade memorabilia. A...

Finance + Legal Services

Finding Your Why:

Running a business is hard. If you’re a business owner, chances are you’ve felt that weight — the endless to-do lists, the long hours, and the constant pressure to grow and succeed. Maybe you’ve even questioned if it’s all worth it. If so, you’re not alone. Many business owners reach a point where the excitement that fueled them in the beginning starts to dim under the weight of day-to-day demands.That’s when it’s time to step back and reconnect with your why — the reason you started your...