Home + Design

Blackbird Home Interiors

Custom design and construction brings your flight of fancy to real life Article by Virginia Maldonado | Photography by Provided and Karen Slack Photography A rattan shade softens the light as rainfall flows overhead. A sea of scalloped tile glimmers in the cove. Natural wood brings a balance of warm hues. Your own private oasis that looks and feels like luxury.  Nestled in Westfield, Blackbird Home Interiors is a design consultation and construction company who handcrafts your dream...

Home + Design

After Winter Home Care

Don't Let Your Home be a Victim of Harsh Weather Article by Wade Rivest As winter gives way to spring, it's essential to give your home the attention it needs for the upcoming seasons. Follow this comprehensive checklist to ensure your living space is well-maintained and ready for the months ahead. 1. Exterior Maintenance: Begin by inspecting your roof, gutters, and siding for any winter-induced damage. Additionally, clean out gutters to avoid potential water damage and fix any cracks in...

Food + Beverage

Tucker's Restaurant:

Celebrating 25 Years of Family, Dedication, and Delicious Moments Article by Michael Anderson | Photography by Kat Kattler Photography I walked through the door, just back from Yankee Candle, and shared the news with my wife, Karen, and our newborn daughter, Paige – I had officially resigned from Chandlers Tavern, the beloved Yankee Candle's Restaurant. Despite my genuine affection for the job, change was in the air. Fast forward to April 15, 1999, and Tucker's Restaurant was born at 648...

Food + Beverage

The Pit Stop BBQ

A Barbeque Enthusiast's Dream Article and Photography by Madeline LeBlanc The Pit Stop BBQ is a recent addition to Westfield’s culinary scene; a paradise for barbecue enthusiasts. As I ventured into this smokey haven, I couldn't resist trying their signature dishes.  First on my plate was the Brisket Loaded Potato – a masterpiece of flavors. The potato was generously loaded with succulent brisket, topped with melted cheese, and crowned with a dollop of tangy barbecue sauce. Each bite was a...

Life + Culture

Heroes Wear Running Shoes

Changing lives through "miles" Article by Wade Rivest | Photography by Katie Warner Mitchell Being a parent can be stressful, to say the least.   For Katie Warner Mitchell and her son Connor, handling stress like true champions has become a way of life.  I had the honor of sitting down with Katie to discuss how she has taken the opportunity to “turn pain into change”.  Connor (6yrs old) was born with a condition called Front Metaphyseal Dysplasia (FMD), a genetic disorder characterized by...

Health + Wellness

EMA DENTAL

Building confidence one smile at a time Article by Tina Lesniak | Photography by Hannah Josephine Photography For the doctors at EMA Dental, standing for Emirzian, Mariano & Associates, dentistry is not just about maintaining healthy teeth but prioritizing the patient, the person and their individual smile.   "The smile represents the unique soul of a person, their emotion and their personality. The ability to give a person the freedom to smile is life-changing,” explains Dr. Lisa Emirzian...

Food + Beverage

Richard's Grinders

A Local Tradition Article by Candice Berube | Photography by Kat Kattler Photography Can you share the history of Richard’s Grinders? Richard Fox founded Richard’s Grinders in West Springfield in 1969. Jim Cleland managed for 20 years. Jim and our family took the leap and bought Richard’s in 1991. The restaurant had a good reputation, so we kept the name. Jim built the business up for 17 years. When he retired in 2008, Brian Cleland took over. We’ve always wanted to open a Richard’s in our...

Event Planning + Services

Introducing Katt's Kreations

Give the gift of Romance this Valentine’s Day! Article and Photography by Madeline LeBlanc Step into the world of floral elegance with Katts Kreations Flower Shop in Westfield, MA, where European craftsmanship transforms blooms into the perfect Valentine's Day gift. Elevate your Valentine's Day with the epitome of luxury, as each handcrafted bouquet tells a story of sophistication and romance. Kat meticulously selects premium blooms, intertwining vibrant hues and delicate fragrances to create...

Food + Beverage

The Brass Rail Meeting House

A Destination for your Next Event Article and Photography by Q: What is the history of The Brass Rail Meeting House? A: The Brass Rail was owned and operated by Louis "Gino" Boccasile and his wife Libera from 1941 to 1970. Born in Italy, the couple transformed The Brass Rail into a multifaceted venue, offering dancing, bowling, dining, floor shows, and live entertainment. The venue became a hub for various events, including weddings, receptions, banquets, fashion shows, auctions, and...

Health + Wellness

Inner Peace, Outer Balance

The Mill at Crane Pond Article by Candice Berube | Photography by Hannah Josephine Photography Tell us about yourself. My name is Jennifer Judd, and I am an entrepreneur and musician who has been on a healing journey for approximately 14 years. I embarked on this path due to chronic health issues that traditional medicine couldn't address, leading me toward alternative healing. Despite the challenges, I'm grateful to say that I've been gradually reversing my issues. Now, I feel compelled to...