Style + Beauty

GRWM Valley Girl Edit

Fall fashion inspired by friendship, confidence, and unforgettable nights out. Article by Tricia Gouin | Photography by Hillary Lynn Photography There are two kinds of evenings: the ones you simply attend, and the ones you get ready for. This closet? I curated it with a little Elle Woods confidence and a whole lot of fall inspiration. Think rich leather textures, cozy knits, statement prints, bold reds, and just enough leopard to remind us that confidence is always in style. Whether it’s...

Style + Beauty

Style Your Skin

Beyond The Bachelorette, Mike Johnson transformed personal pain into purposeful, skin-loving wellness through OSHUN. Article by Tricia Gouin | Photography by Brittany Dawn Short Many know Mike Johnson from The Bachelorette, Celebrity Family Feud, and Good Morning America. What they didn’t see was the painful eczema that quietly shaped his life. His skin became so inflamed, it left both his confidence and comfort stripped away. His allergist described it as one of the worst cases of eczema he’d...

Style + Beauty

Influence Rooted In Real Life

Angel inspires modern mothers through authenticity, affordability, & meaningful connections. Article by Tricia Gouin | Photography by Hillary Lynn Photography What began as one mother’s search for connection has grown into one of Massachusetts’ most relatable lifestyle communities. When Angel welcomed twins, she quickly realized she needed more than parenting books—she needed other moms who truly understood the beautiful chaos of raising multiples. She started sharing honest moments online...

Food + Beverage

Every Cookie Has a Story

Meet the passionate baker transforming simple ingredients into memorable moments shared throughout the West Valley. Article by Tricia Gouin | Photography by Sam Smalley & Mackenzie Thibodeau Every great bakery has a signature recipe, but the heart behind  Cookies by Ray  isn’t found on an ingredient list—it’s found in the passion of the baker who believes food has the power to bring people together. For Rachel, baking has always been about more than creating exceptional cookies. It’s about...

Shopping

Best Foot Forward

Upscale Socks Article by Amanda Waterfield Fashion accessories have always been about personal expression, and socks might be the most adaptable and affordable way to make your look your own. Upscale Socks is a Springfield-based company that has been creating original sock designs for ten years. The company offers a collection of styles that are colorful, vibrant, fun, and meaningful, with styles and sizes for the entire family. With no background in retail, Upscale Socks founder Lenny...

Style + Beauty

Permanent Style

Expression that lasts. Article by Tyler King Your style is your primary communicator about yourself to the outside world. What – or who – you wear, and how you carry it, makes an impression on anyone who looks your way. They judge a book by its cover. They think they know exactly who you are . In a vain-faced world dominated by social media, people are increasingly investing in crafting a unique style that speaks to who they are, a wardrobe that, in any combination, sends the same...

Beauty

Summer Skin Starts Here

Expert Tips for Glowing Skin All Season Long : featuring Michelle Corey, owner Boutique MedSpa Article by Tricia Gouin Summer in the  West Valley  means sunshine, vineyard weekends, patio dinners, and long days spent outdoors — but warmer weather can also take a toll on your skin. Increased sun exposure, heat, and dehydration often lead to dullness, pigmentation, and premature aging. According to Michelle Corey, owner of  Boutique MedSpa , radiant summer skin starts with consistency...

Food + Beverage

From Sea-to-Table

Why Masse’s American Bistro should be on your Western Massachusetts dining list Article and Photography by Madeline LeBlanc If you’re looking for fresh seafood, comforting pasta dishes, and a menu with something for everyone, Masse’s American Bistro in Chicopee is worth a visit. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and commitment to quality ingredients, this local favorite combines classic American fare with fresh seafood delivered daily. One of the biggest highlights of our visit was the Angry...

Home + Design

THE PET SUITE

DESIGNING FOR THE MOST SPOILED MEMBER OF THE FAMILY Article by Tricia Gouin, Publisher | Photography by Drew Evans, Architectural Designer For years, luxury homes have been meticulously designed around the people who live in them. Dressing rooms tailored to extensive wardrobes, wine vaults curated around prized collections. Now, we're seeing another space rise to prominence: the pet suite. THE PET MUDROOM Perhaps the ultimate luxury for active dogs. Imagine returning from a rainy...

Life + Culture

The Holyoke Merry-Go-Round

Still Spinning For 33 Years Article by Maureen Sullivan | Photography by Ally Montemagni You are never too young or too old to take a spin on a Merry-Go-Round. It’s always a thrill, no matter your age, to hop on a beautifully hand-carved painted horse or ride in one of the chariots. For me, it has always had to be the horse that goes up and down. But there have been times when the chariot makes me feel a little special. When Mountain Park in Holyoke closed in 1987, a group of Holyoke residents...