Alie Rodriguez and her mother Kim Dessert have dreamed of owning a business together for as long as Rodriguez can remember. Just a few months ago, the duo made that dream come true with the opening of Ink & Thread, a clothing and book shop. “It has been a longtime dream of ours to own and build a business together and we’re thrilled to be making that dream a reality here in East Longmeadow,” said Rodriguez of their business located at 56 Shaker Rd.
PHOTO BY SIMONE
FROM THE EDITOR LAUREN LEBEL
October Go Local Weddings is here!
O ur two weddings sections — especially the fall weddings — are always my favorite.
This one in particular feels even more exciting for me as I can officially say I am in the wedding planning process.
In my July note, I wrote about the annual Cape trip my family and I would be taking at the end of that month. What I did not know was that I would be getting engaged!
L eading up to the proposal, I got ready for what I thought was going to be a family dinner and photos beforehand. Dressed in neutral colors, we traveled to Chatham Bars Inn for dinner at their Beach House Grill.
I f you’ve ever been to Chatham Bars Inn, then you know how stunning the property is. It is extremely well-kept with colorful florals lining the walkways, has various eateries inside and outside, along with a breathtaking view overlooking the water.
With much to see — and many photos to take as my family was trying to distract me — we eventually made our way down to the beach.
W hen we got there, my sister used her professional camera to take photos of the couples and asked me and my now fiancé, Matt, to walk down the beach so she could capture it. And it was at that moment that I realized what was happening.
To be honest, I don’t remember much of anything that he said, and it truly did not feel real until he dropped down on one knee.
W hen I turned around, not only was my family there, but he surprised me with his whole family as well.
After taking more photos with the actual photographer he hired — no offense to my sister’s photography qualifications — both of our families enjoyed dinner together and celebrated well into the evening.
It was the most perfect proposal I could have ever even imagined, and truly the best night of our lives.
But, with that in the rearview, it is now time to start wedding planning!
In this month’s Go Local, our weddings section features Hope in Handfuls, which offers custom signage and handcrafted event decor, along with Absolute Photo Booth, which provides interactive entertainment for your big day!
And, as always, Go Local features three other businesses — nonwedding related — in this edition. Included are Pomeroy’s Vegetable Farm, an East Longmeadow-based farm celebrating 75 years; Julien’s Farm Store, a gourmet-style farm store and bakery in Granby, Connecticut, and Ink & Thread, a new book and clothing store in East Longmeadow.
We hope you enjoy!
Thanks for reading, Lauren LeBel, editor
Chris Maza EDITOR
Lauren LeBel
CREATIVE
Beth Thurber, Manager
Susan Bartlett . Sophia Kelleher
Leigh Catchepaugh . Lorie Perry
ADVERTISING
Scott Greene, Manager
Jeanette Lee . Lisa Nolan
Matt Mahaney . Paul Poutre
Paula Dimauro . Evan Marcyoniak
Andy Shaw . Roxanne Miller-Longtin
Carolyn Napolitan, Sales Assistant
Curtis Panlilio, Operations Director
POMER Y'S VEGETABLE FARM
Thank God for farmers like Neil Pomeroy.
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, farmers and ranchers are the backbone of America, working from sunup to sundown, taking care of the land and livestock and providing food for their fellow citizens and the rest of the world.
“Farming isn’t just a job for me. It’s a way of life deeply rooted in my family’s history. The connection to the land, the rhythm of the seasons, and the pride in providing our community with healthy, organic produce are incredibly rewarding. It’s a legacy I’m honored to continue,” Pomeroy said.
Pomeroy’s Vegetable Farm is celebrating their 75th anniversary growing organic vegetables, fruits, herbs, and flowers for the community from three-and-a-half acres of land located on Hampden Road in East Longmeadow.
They cultivate a wide array of seasonal fruits, vegetables, herbs, and flowers such as lettuce, spinach, beets, all kinds of greens, summer squash, zucchini, kale, leek, green and wax beans, cucumbers, early tomatoes, basil, eggplant and many other healthy foods you often find at a local roadside stand. There are also flowers in the summer such as zinnias, asters, and beautiful sunflowers that Pomeroy
uses to create bouquets for sale.
“The exact selection varies throughout the year, reflecting the natural growing cycles. We are still supplying 100% all-natural produce for our locality as did my parents and grandparents from the very beginning,” Pomeroy said.
The property was purchased by his grandmother on Jan. 1, 1950, after selling her farm on South Street in Agawam. She began to farm and sold strawberries, asparagus, and rhubarb at Pomeroys from a table set up roadside. Pomeroy’s parents moved here in 1955 where his father raised chickens, grew vegetables, and ran a Christmas tree farm until 1975. As a young farmer, Pomeroy worked beside his father while he ran the roadside stand and participated in farmers markets in the surrounding towns. When Pomeroy’s parents grew elderly, he purchased the farm from them in 1998 after his mother’s wishes to “keep it in the family.”
“Growing up on the farm instilled in me a profound respect for nature, the value of hard work, and the satisfaction of contributing something meaningful. These lessons, passed down through generations, continue to guide our farming practices today,” Pomeroy said.
The front page of their website proudly boasts in large letters: “Beyond Organic! 100% naturally grown vegetables.”
“Our commitment to organic farming is fundamental to our values. We believe in nourishing the soil, which in turn yields superior flavor and nutrition in our produce. It’s healthier for our customers, better for the environment, and reflects our commitment to sustainable agriculture. We don’t use pesticides or chemicals. It isn’t just about health, it’s about responsible stewardship of the land,” Pomeroy said.
He noted their belief in pesticide-free, organic produce, offering significant benefits beyond just taste.
“It contributes to a healthier environment and promotes human well-being. Our methods enhance biodiversity and minimize our ecological footprint. It’s about nurturing a balanced ecosystem that is beneficial for both people and nature,” Pomeroy said.
Although they no longer sell at farmers markets, their roadside stand — which Pomeroy built with his father — operates approximately eight months a year for loyal customers, and the farm also provides some fresh vegetables for area restaurants.
At the age of 70, Pomeroy sees a time when his farming days will be over, but not just yet. His son and daughter both have full-time jobs, but when not working, help on the farm as much as they can, participating in planting and harvesting to marketing and sales. But full-time farming is not in their future.
“ We also have a handful of wonderful volunteers who work in exchange for fresh produce from the farm. This collaborative effort ensures we maintain our high standards of quality and care,” Pomeroy said.
He continued, “My mission is to continue to provide 100% natural vegetables, fruits, herbs, and flowers free of herbicides, pesticides, and GMOs. We are committed to educating people of all ages of the benefits of farming and how beneficial it is nutritionally for both body and soul,” Pomeroy said.
The farmstand typically opens in early spring and closes in late fall. Specific dates are usually posted on their Facebook page by early March and announced through various local channels and social media.
“Mother nature is generally in charge of when we open and close the farmstand,” Pomeroy said.
THE FARMSTAND IS OPEN WEDNESDAY, FRIDAY AND SUNDAY FROM 9 A.M. TO 3 P.M.
GO LOCAL PICKS
COOL STUFF JUST OUTSIDE YOUR DOOR
HARVEST
& CRAFT FAIR
HARVEST FESTIVAL & CRAFT FAIR
STRONG FAMILY FARM
274 WEST STREET . VERNON, CT
OCTOBER 19 . 1OAM - 3PM
Celebrate autumn at the 11th annual Harvest Festival & Craft Fair at Strong Family Farm! Enjoy a fun-filled day with over 40 vendors and artisans, delicious food trucks, live music, farm animals to pet, kids’ activities and games, a scarecrow contest, prize drawings, and a farm stand full of fresh goodies. On-site parking is available for $5, and we kindly ask that dogs be left at home. Bring your family and friends to enjoy the crisp fall air!
For more information visit: strongfamilyfarm.org
PHANTOMS BY FIRELIGHT
OLD STURBRIDGE VILLAGE
1 OLD STURBRIDGE VILLAGE ROAD STURBRIDGE, MA
OCTOBER 10-26 . 4:30PM - 9PM
As nightfall cloaks the Village in darkness, the line between past and present fades, and history’s shadows come alive. Wander fire-lit paths and step inside historic buildings, gather by the crackling bonfire for eerie tales, and revel in the dazzling spectacle of fire dancers, soaring acrobats, and haunting melodies. Step into a world of flickering lanterns, whispered secrets, and the magic of Halloween like you’ve never experienced before.
To purchase tickets and more information visit: https://tinyurl.com/3r25d94j
THE MIGHTY OKTOBERFEST
STUDENT PRINCE CAFE & THE FORT 8 FORT STREET . SPRINGFIELD, MA
The Mighty Oktoberfest returns to Fort Street on Oct. 10 and 11! Join the Student Prince for German beers, brats, and an epic celebration. The festivities kick off at 5 p.m. on Friday with their annual tapping of the keg! The party keeps rolling down Fort Street all night long with the most authentic German beers, brats and more. Special selection of food available outdoors, and their fort classics under the tent and inside the restaurant!
To purchase tickets and more information visit: https://tinyurl.com/4kwcm4xj
INK THREAD &
Alie Rodriguez and her mother Kim Dessert have dreamed of owning a business together for as long as Rodriguez can remember.
J ust a few months ago, the duo made that dream come true with the opening of Ink & Thread, a clothing and book shop.
“I t has been a longtime dream of ours to own and build a business together and we’re thrilled to be making that dream a reality here in East Longmeadow,” said Rodriguez of their business located at 56 Shaker Rd.
“This is the first business that we are building from the ground up,” noted Rodriguez. “We were inspired by some of our close friends and family who have built businesses, especially my grandparents, who built a successful company of their own over 50 years ago.”
R odriguez had a career in public relations and worked on and off in retail for many years.
“One of my first retail jobs was working at Barnes & Noble and most recently I held a part-time position
at my favorite boutique in Northampton, 25 Central,” she said. “The owner of that shop quickly became a friend and mentor to me. She is the one who showed me the ropes of boutique ownership — I am immensely grateful for her help and friendship.”
Dessert is a full-time early childhood educator.
“ She is the one who instilled a love of reading in my sister and me from a young age,” said Rodriguez.
R odriguez said growing up, shopping with her mother and sister was one of her favorite things to do.
“I t didn’t matter if we were shopping for a specific outfit or just shopping to see what was new, we always had fun finding unique pieces to add to our wardrobe,” she said. “As I got older, I quickly realized that we didn’t have fun just shopping, we had such a good time because we were together. That feeling of togetherness has become a cornerstone for Ink & Thread. We want our shop to be a place where friends and family can come together, shop and just have fun.”
R odriguez and Dessert often find themselves
discussing books and wanted to bring books into their shop as a way to bring people together.
“ Sharing what books are on your to-be-read list is always a great conversation starter,” said Rodriguez. “Let’s be honest, there is no better feeling than striking up a conversation with someone who loved — or hated — the same book that you did. So, when we sat down and thought about how we were going to make our shop unique, incorporating books and some of our favorite authors was a no-brainer.”
S ince opening in May 2025, the book – or ink – part of Ink & Thread has grown and allowed the motherdaughter team to do some really fun things.
“For example, we recently wrapped up a ‘Summer Reading Challenge’ where customers stopped by the shop and picked up a postcard that they could fill out with the three books they read between June [and] August, said Rodriguez. “Those that filled out the card brought it back and were entered into a gift card giveaway. It was so fun to see what everyone was reading this summer, and talking to customers about their favorite books has helped us find new titles and authors to carry.”
Ink & Thread has a “Bring Your Own Book Club, known as the BYOB(ook) Club.”
R odriguez said all are welcome and participants
should bring whatever book they are currently reading.
“Folks can either take some time to read or shop before we sit down as a group and chat about our current reads,” she said. “This book club has been a really great way to meet new people and learn about new books and authors. Our October book club will meet Oct. 23 at 6 p.m.”
Ink & Thread also hosts book clubs at the shop.
“ We understand that sometimes hosting can be a lot, or maybe some groups are looking for something new and fun to do with their book club — so we are happy to take the reins and welcome groups to our space,” said Rodriguez. “If anyone is looking for a new book club to join, the Western Mass Book Babes typically hosts their monthly book club meet-ups at Ink & Thread.”
A ll items for sale in the shop are new, including a small selection of books, clothes and accessories to keep the shop fresh with new inventory.
“This a pproach keeps things fun for our customers who can always find something new no matter when they last visited. And it’s fun for us too since we’re always looking for and bringing in cute clothes and interesting books,” said Rodriguez.
I f shopping is something that might overwhelm you, Rodriguez suggested stopping by on a weekend when both she and her mother are at the store.
“ We’re always eager to help customers try something new and find their next favorite outfit or book — it’s the best part of our jobs,” she said. “That is really what makes us unique. You will always find something new when you come to Ink & Thread. Whether it be our high-quality clothing that makes you feel cool, confident and excited about what you’re wearing — all while staying in an affordable price range. Or maybe you come in and discover a new author or book that you’ll recommend to your friends at book club.”
Ink & Thread carries mostly fiction books — thrillers, historical fiction, romance and feel-good storytelling — with an emphasis on new releases from authors that excite the shop owners.
“ When we first opened, we brought in the new releases of some of our favorite authors like Nicholas Sparks, Nora Roberts, Michael Connelly and Emily Henry,” Rodriguez said. “It’s been great to see that we have a lot of customers who share our love for the suspense and thriller genre. We carry books from authors such as Ruth Ware, Riley Sager, and Freida McFadden — whose new book, ‘The Intruder,’ will be at the shop on Oct. 7.”
Ink & Thread also hosts small, local businesses for popup shops.
“ Supporting small businesses has always been
important to my mom and me. So, early in the days of planning the shop we knew we wanted to welcome other businesses who might not have a storefront as a fun way to both spread the word about Ink & Thread and give them the opportunity to set up shop for the day and get their names out there too,” said Rodriguez.
In addition to hosting pop-up shops, the women have also worked with the East Longmeadow and Wilbraham chapters of the Mom Walk Collective to host and sponsor different events focused on moms and kids.
“After I had my son last year, I found this community of wonderful ladies who supported me throughout the tough postpartum months and beyond — some have even become new friends,” Rodriguez said. “It’s been great to collaborate with this group and we look forward to hosting more events with them later this year.”
INK & THREAD, LOCATED AT 56 SHAKER RD. IN EAST LONGMEADOW, IS OPEN MONDAY-FRIDAY, 11 A.M. TO 6 P.M.; SATURDAY, 10 A.M. TO 5 P.M.; AND SUNDAY, 10 A.M. TO 3 P.M.
CUSTOMERS CAN LEARN MORE ABOUT THE SHOP AND SEE WEEKLY NEW ARRIVALS ON INSTAGRAM, @SHOP_INKANDTHREAD.
Banana Bread Muffin Tops
1 & 1/2 sticks butter, softened
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup white sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup mashed banana, about 2 ripe bananas
1 & 1/2 cups flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1 & 1/2 cups old fashioned oats
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Grab a large mixing bowl and combine your butter, and both sugars, and whisk together until smooth. Add your eggs, vanilla and banana and continue whisking until fully combined. Add flour, baking soda and salt, mix and then fold in your old fashioned oats.
Let set in the fridge for 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 375F.
Take roughly a tablespoon of the mixture and add it to your baking sheet, bake for 10-12 minutes, let cool and enjoy!
NATHAN BLAIS I’m a photographer from Springfield. I combined my love for cooking and photography and turned it into a career. Check out my instagram @nateblais!
At Haya Sushi, our ALL
EAT DINNER isn’t a buffet, it’s a FEAST. Order as many fresh rolls and Japanese delights as you can handle, all served directly. No lines, no stress, just endless sushi goodness. Plus...
40 Non-Sushi Delights.
Johnny Appleseed’s Farm We Grow the Best
Thank you for your patronage.
Picking hours: Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday 10 am-4 pm until mid-October (weather permitting). Call the farm info line below for up-to-date picking conditions. (updated by 8 am as needed). U-Pick Apples, Pumpkins & Corn Maze located at 13 Schoolhouse Rd. Ellington STORE LOCATIONS: 185 West Rd. (Rte. 83) Ellington, CT 244 Hartford Turnpike (Rte. 30) Tolland, CT (on the Vernon town line)
Both our Ellington and Tolland stores are open... We have a nice selection of seasonal vegetables, apples, cider, mums, pumpkins, and everything you need to decorate for fall. We also have CT produced pies, breads, maple products, and honey, in addition to our own store made apple cider donuts! We carry many other delicious products and have some unique items made by local artisans. Current Store Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5:30pm • Sat & Sun 9am-5pm (860) 875-1000
LOCAL SNAPSHOT
AUTUMN DAHLIA
BETH M. THURBER
Julien's farm store
What began as a passion has since turned into a well-known spot in the Granby, Connecticut, community and beyond.
Julien’s Farm Store, which opened in 2023, is a “garden gourmet-style” farm store and bakery that offers handmade breads, cakes, pastries and more, all made from scratch.
Originally from France, owner — and the name behind the store — Julien Tessier’s love for culinary came from his mother and grandmother’s “exceptional” cooking. That love eventually turned into a long career as Tessier became a trained chef and pastry chef, working in Hythe, England and London.
In L ondon is where he met his husband, Christopher Peregrin.
In 2020, dur ing the coronavirus pandemic, Tessier and Peregrin moved to Granby, along with their dog, Winston.
Peregrin, who lived in Granby about 20 years prior, started a horse farm on Julien’s Farm Store’s property years ago with its current owner and longtime friend. With a vacant apartment above the horse barn, Tessier and Peregrin moved in.
Peregrin took his passion of training horses and offering riding lessons to his friend’s son, while Tessier received the suggestion of opening a “sandwich type” shop on the property, as there is a lot of traffic from people at the barn.
At first, Tessier decided to set up a “little farm store cafe.” Fast forward three years later, and Julien’s Farm Store was born.
Inside the store are a plethora of alternating baked goods, from chocolate croissants to lemon almond poppyseed loaves, and beverages ranging from cappuccinos to strawberry matcha lattes.
Tessier said some of their most popular items are the biscuit sandwich and donuts. He described the donuts as a “brioche style” that is extremely soft. “People often compare it to the Italian style of [a] donut … it’s different than the cake donuts that we have here in America - it’s softer.”
O ther popular items include cinnamon rolls, banana pudding and tiramisu, to name a few.
Peregrin said everything has its own audience. For instance, there are offerings for people that are gluten free, and when those items are available, customers come and “stockpile” them.
On Sundays, Julien’s serves brisket, which Peregrin said has its own following.
“Different people come specifically for different things, which is cool,” Peregrin added.
Another one of Tessier’s passions, aside from cooking, is gardening.
“I star ted gardening during the weekends or during my time off — my downtime — as a private chef,” he said. Referencing the garden next to him, he shared, “This kind of like grew and grew and grew.”
Today, Tessier still takes care of the garden, planting and nurturing everything himself, which takes up a lot of his time.
W hile he is “off” Mondays and Tuesdays, he spends his time in the garden mowing the grass, trimming plants, planting, and thinking about what next year’s garden will include.
“This is all me. I designed it all, I planted it all, I choose every single plant,” he shared.
Next to the garden, and sitting beside the farm store, Tessier pointed out the wooden raised beds that customers were sitting at, to which he built as well.
“It’s a labor of love and really a long [commitment.]
Gardening is like you watch the seasons go by and then you think about what you can do next year because there’s snow on the ground,” he said.
W hen it comes to the cafe, Tessier said it grew out of support from the community.
“ We had [huge] support from people. It was incredible and it felt very special,” he said.
From building the cafe, Tessier said they now know everybody in Granby. “It has kind of grown organically on its own,” he shared.
He went on to say that it has been “very rewarding” in the aspect of meeting and connecting with people, solely from what they built.
“I think that’s been the most rewarding thing for me,” he added.
Describing himself as “well-traveled,” opening Julien’s and connecting people around the area has allowed Tessier to “anchor” himself to this space and to the community more than ever, he said.
He went on to recognize the growth of the cafe since its opening two years ago. On the outside, the cafe has tables for people to sit and enjoy their food and drinks.
“It seems like every week there’s two more tables and another umbrella,” Peregrin said with a laugh.
Tessier said they even had to convert space out back into a parking lot. “It kind of becomes like a concert sort of moment during the weekend, on Saturday and Sunday, there’s lines of people wrapping around the building,” he added.
Due to its successes, Tessier shared that they are currently trying to open a second location in town, as they are keen on keeping Julien’s a “Granby thing.”
“ We thought that the flagship has to be in Granby because we have so much in our community … I didn’t want to go anywhere else,” said Tessier.
He said they are trying to open a second location near Geissler’s Supermarket, as there are some vacant shops there that have good parking and are in a more visible area then its current location.
Peregrin added that the second location will allow them to have more room for ovens, as right now, Julien’s has one convection oven and two induction plates. “That’s like camping equipment,” he said.
The new space will give the team more space as well, as there are currently six people working and baking “nonstop” in a 100-square-foot space.
In the beginning, the thought was that it would be Tessier and maybe someone else helping him, but it quickly became clear that more people were needed.
“The second location will give them a kitchen,” Peregrin said. “This isn’t a kitchen. There’s no hood. There’s no gas. There’s a coffee machine, which is great, but that’s it.”
He shared that when someone who works in the
industry visits, they look around and think, “What? How?”
Tessier described it as a puzzle. Because of the size of the space, they have to figure out when to get people in, when he can get in there, and “dance around each other” to work and cook.
“ We make everything from scratch so that makes such a big difference,” Tessier said. He noted that a lot of supermarkets or bakeries in the area get their items premade.
“That’s not the case here. We make everything from scratch, so it takes a long time. We make all the cookies, all the donuts, all the donut fillings [are] made by hand,” he said.
W hile Julien’s is only open Thursday through Sunday, there is someone in there working seven days a week.
Tessier shared that they have a close relationship and receive products from a farm around the corner, Holcomb Farm, which is owned by the town. Holcomb does organic farming, operating from a “CSA sort of structure,” he said.
Also nearby, Sweet Pea, a dairy farm, provides Julien’s with its dairy products, which all the coffees are made with.
Julien’s coffee is provided by Those Guys out of East Hartland. Tessier noted that they create “special blends” of coffee for the cafe, which people rave about.
“They’re small, we’re small, everybody’s small, but we do very good quality stuff,” Tessier said.
He went on to say that he thinks people are “taken” and “proud” of the fact that a lot of the food offered at Julien’s is grown locally.
“ We’re basically all just working with each other,” he
said, “and it stays local.”
W hile the products stay local, Peregrin noted that people come from all over New England to visit Julien’s since word quickly spread on social media.
For Tessier, another rewarding part of the business is that he can constantly create new items, whether it’s changing the donuts or creating a new danish flavor.
And for Peregrin, the most exciting part is that it feels like they haven’t even started yet.
“ We haven’t really done a lot of food. We just haven’t had the tools or the equipment. You know, we do the biscuit sandwiches and then a big baked goods offering … but Julien’s a chef. So, the thing I’m excited by is I kind of don’t even feel like we’ve started.”
L ooking back, Peregrin said the first two years of Julien’s were a “small part of the story” because once they really start doing food, he thinks it will become even bigger.
A s the conversation wrapped up with Tessier and Peregrin, a customer came out and said, “They [the workers] keep bringing things out, Julien, it’s not fair, I can’t go home!”
“That’s the strategy,” Peregrin replied with a smile. W hen it comes to opening the second location, Peregrin said, “It will certainly open before the third location … We’re just getting started.”
JULIEN’S, LOCATED AT 175 BARN DOOR HILLS RD. IN GRANBY, IS OPEN YEAR-ROUND, THURSDAY THROUGH SATURDAY, 8 A.M. TO 4 P.M., AND SUNDAYS, 8 A.M. TO 2 P.M.
LOCAL EINSTEIN
TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE - NO GOOGLING!
WHICH MLB PLAYER’S NUMBER 42 HAS BEEN RETIRED LEAGUE-WIDE?
[A] Babe Ruth
[B] Jackie Robinson
[C] Roberto Clemente
[D] Joe DiMaggio
WHICH PLAYER EARNED THE NICKNAME “MR. OCTOBER” FOR HIS POSTSEASON HEROICS?
[A] Hank Aaron
[B] Reggie Jackson
[C] David Ortiz
[D] Mike Piazza
WHICH TEAM CALLS WRIGLEY FIELD ITS HOME?
[A] Chicago White Sox
[B] St. Louis Cardinals
[C] Cincinnati Reds
[D] Chicago Cubs
WHO WAS THE FIRST MLB PLAYER TO HAVE HIS NUMBER RETIRED?
[A] Lou Gehrig
[B] Babe Ruth
[C] Mel Ott
[D] Jimmie Foxx
WHO WON THAT FIRST MODERN-DAY WORLD SERIES?
[A] Pittsburgh Pirates
[B] Brooklyn Dodgers
[C] Boston Americans
[D] Chicago White Stockings
[A] New York Yankees
[B] Boston Red Sox
[C] Los Angeles Dodgers
[D] Houston Astros WHICH TEAM WON THE 2020 MLB WORLD SERIES?
WHO HOLDS THE SINGLE SEASON HOME RUN RECORD WITH 73 HOME RUNS?
[A] Sammy Sosa
[B] Barry Bonds
[C] Mike McGuire
[D] Ken Griffey, Jr.
HOW MANY FEET IS THE TOTAL DISTANCE AROUND THE BASES?
[A] 240 feet
[B] 360 feet
[C] 480 feet
[D] 520 feet
IN WHAT YEAR WAS THE FIRST MODERN-DAY WORLD SERIES PLAYED?
[A] 1903
[B] 1914
[C] 1922
[D] 1926
ANSWERS:
The Final Countdown
7 Fall Foliage Hikes
ASHLEY RESERVOIR TRAIL
HOLYOKE
This trail has a mix of hardpacked dirt paths and crushedrock roads, making it perfect for a smooth walk or mountain bike ride. Wildlife is everywhere, including birds, Canada geese and goslings, mallard ducks, and pond turtles.
LUDLOW RESERVOIR
LUDLOW
This trail is great for hiking, running, and walking. The best times to visit this trail are February through December. You’ll need to leave pups at home — dogs aren’t allowed on this trail. Beautiful scenery, abundant birdlife, and accessible paved paths.
VALLEY FALLS RAILROAD BROOK TRAIL
VERNON, CT
Beautiful scenery, well-maintained paths, and a pleasant stream. This route loops around the pond and travels further into the park’s interior. There is a waterfall and a trail that leads up to the Hop River Trail. Cross it and continue to hike up to view the valley from two lookout points.
GOAT ROCK TRAIL
HAMPDEN, MA
Considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 1 hour and 28 minutes to complete. This is a popular trail for hiking, running, and walking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The best times to visit this trail are January through November. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.
CONANT RESERVOIR MONSON
This is a popular trail for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The trail is open yearround and is beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash. Beautiful wildlife views, easy terrain, and well-kept grounds.
CULVER POND NATURE PRESERVE STAFFORD,
CT
Begin by parking at the trailhead lot located on Gilbert Road. Head east into the forest and take a right at the junction to reach Culver Pond. Proceed northeast and loop back to the trailhead. Scenery and abundant state land for exploring.
COLUMBIA GREENWAY RAIL TRAIL
WESTFIELD
Great Town-and-Country walk/bike ride with beautiful woods and tobacco fields. There are lots of bicyclists, dog walkers, and families. Trail is flat and easy but a little long. The trail surface is pavement (with partial railings.) Trail is well maintained and has easy access ramps.
Weddings
PHOTO BY SIMONE PLUS PHOTOGRAPHY
PHOTO BY SIMONE PLUS PHOTOGRAPHY
HOPE HANDFULSin
By Debbie Gardner | special to weddings
No two weddings are alike today, and no one knows that better than Hope in Handfuls owner Nicole Baldarelli.
“Everything in the wedding industry today is about making it unique and custom to your love story and an experience for your guests,” Baldarelli shared.
From hand-painted oyster shells and friendship bracelets as place cards to nautically themed cocktail menus on the sail of a model sailboat, to her latest challenge — a basketball-inspired wedding at a resort in Newport, Rhode Island — Baldarelli uses her creative magic to turn a couple’s vision into the kind of wedding day they imagine.
Her handmade décor and signage have welcomed guests to weddings throughout New England, including such notable venues as the Gilded Age mansion Rosecliff in Newport, Rhode Island, the historic Wentworth by the Sea Inn in New Castle, New Hampshire and the Wychmere Beach Club in Harwich Port, Cape Cod.
“We’re the wedding mecca,” the Milbury, Massachusetts-based creative explained. “Being surrounded by [locations like] Newport, Rhode Island and Cape Cod, people come from all over the world to get married here. To have that as my backyard, you can’t beat that.”
Her ability to turn an idea into something beautiful and unique comes naturally, Baldarelli said. As a child, she usually didn’t buy gifts; she’d
often make them. “I’d see something, and I’d say, ‘I can make that,’” she shared, adding that when many kids created lemonade stands in the summer, she’d turn scrap wood into hand-painted signs and sell them at the end of her driveway.
But it was her own wedding in 2017 where others noticed her flair for event design. A natural at party and event planning — she’d excelled at that part of her duties when class president in high school and during her college years — she turned a tent on an open field on Cape Cod into the perfect barn-themed wedding venue.
“It was the era of mason jars and rustic décor,” said Baldarelli, who shared she also painted all the signage for the event herself, even spray-painting dozens of miniature plastic animals gold for her “what’s your party animal” themed place card markers.
Friends, she said, told her, “This is the best wedding I ever saw … You have to do this for a living!”
But it was the birth of her first child, who had medical issues, followed by the COVID-19 shutdown, that started Baldarelli rethinking her career working full-time in human resources. In May of 2021, she launched what she thought was going to be a side hustle doing signage and décor items for “all kinds of events” from weddings to birthday parties. Much of her work was single items — a cake topper, a happy birthday banner, a sign — ordered through her Etsy website.
“I had a dream [one night] that I had a business called Hope in Handfuls,” Baldarelli explained. “I woke up the next morning, told my
husband, went out and bought a Cricut and opened an Etsy shop a week later.”
Shortly after establishing her side hustle, Baldarelli said she was laid off from her corporate job and moved to running her Etsy shop full-time.
In 2023, after “finding her footing” in the event signage business through networking with other vendors and wedding planners, the now mother of three closed her Etsy shop and moved to wedding work full-time.
“I not only make all the décor, now I [also] go and set it up,” Baldarelli said. “I’m a one-stop shop for all your signage needs.
“If you are looking for that immersive, cohesive, unique custom experience, that’s me,” she added.
Baldarelli said her work starts with welcome signage, which is often unique, to create an introduction to the day’s events. She also does programs for some couples, and for outdoor weddings, commemorative fans. For the cocktail hour, she’ll do custom signature drink signs, sometimes with an interactive element like lighting to provide the “wow” factor couples are looking for, and unique place cards, such as painted shells, for seating arrangements. She also crafts custom gift table signage and card boxes, along with memory table presentations for couples who want to include family members no longer with them in the ceremony.
“You name it, I’ll make it, and if I haven’t done it before, I’ll learn how,” Baldarelli said. In the age of Pinterest and Instagram, she said couples come with lots of ideas. She tries to make certain those ideas are a reflection of the couple, their love story and their vision for their wedding.
Baldarelli credits her husband, Mike, with helping her create the larger display signage and pieces.
“We go out to our garage after the kids go to bed at 9 [p.m.], and
work until 1 or 2 a.m.” during the busy wedding season, she said. “Then he gets up at 7:30 [a.m.] and goes to work.”
She said Mike’s help, plus that of family members on both sides, has been elemental to her business’s growth and success.
A consultation usually starts eight months to a year out from the wedding date with an inquiry, a form filled out by the couple and a discussion about vision and budget, as Baldarelli said her work is customarily high-end. She then drafts a proposal and creates mock-ups of larger items for approval. From there, she works with the venue and other vendors to bring the couple’s vision for their wedding to fruition.
Along the way, there’s always a lot of checking in, consultations, and changes, she said.
“You always start with a design and then it’s totally different … the design evolves so much … that’s what keeps it interesting,” Baldarelli shared.
A new theme for wedding signage is a branding experience, Baldarelli said, creating a custom monogram and then using it not just on signage, but also on items such as baseball caps or sweatshirts, or even a holiday ornament that’s given out to guests.
“It’s cool to see my work on more things,” Baldarelli said.
Baldarelli is already booking out into fall of 2026. For couples interested in her services, she suggests getting in touch when the wedding date is set.
“ The sooner the better,” she suggested.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON BALDARELLI’S SERVICES, INCLUDING PHOTOS OF HER WORK AT DIFFERENT VENUES, AND AN INITIAL CONTACT FORM, VISIT HER WEBSITE AT HOPEINHANDFULS.COM.
By Lauren LeBel
SAY TO THE DRESS
One of the most highly anticipated par ts of a wedding — specifically when it comes to the bride — is seeing her dress as she walks down the aisle. From ball gown to mermaid, each bride’s style and choice is unique to them.
BRIDAL CORNER
720 memorial dr. • chicopee
bridal-corner.com
From gowns to accessories, Bridal Corner has something for all! The family-owned and operated business has collections ranging from bridal to attendants, and even tuxedos. For those looking to explore Bridal Corner’s expansive collection, appointments are required. The shop is open Monday, noon to 7 p.m.; Tuesday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Thursday and Friday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.; and closed Wednesdays and Sundays.
GOING TO THE CHAPEL DRESS SHOP
555 enfield st. • enfield chapeldresses.com
For over 10 years, Going to the Chapel has made it their mission to make “every bride’s dream come true.” According to its website, “You will have a high end experience without paying a high end price.” The shop has new designer dresses at 50% off retail, “keeping your dream dress within reach.” The bridal store is by appointment only. For more information or with questions, call 860-265-2011 or visit the store’s website.
There to assist the bride — and even her loved ones — are shops that offer gowns, veils, accessories and more. So, if you’re in the process of finding your perfect dress, check out some of these local bridal shops.
PEARL BRIDAL BOUTIQUE
1 open square way • holyoke pearlbridalboutique.com
Pearl Bridal Boutique brings that New York City loft feel to Western Mass. “Each bride gets her own private dressing room as well as a guest viewing area,” reads their website. With only three brides allowed in the boutique at a time, it makes for a “calm” and “tranquil” environment. And while there are various bridal gowns to choose from, the boutique also offers dresses for the bridal party. Appointments at Pearl Bridal are required and can be made on their website.
WEDDING DREAMS
311 elm st. • west springfield weddingdreams.store
With more than 200 different styles and sizes on display, Wedding Dreams offers “unique” and “beautiful” gowns for every bride, along with veils and handmade headpieces. The dresses range in price from $400 to $3,000, accommodating various budgets. To book a bridal appointment and for its hours, visit the Wedding Dreams’ website.
ABSOLUTEPhoto Booth
By Tina Lesniak | special to weddings
When Rosemarie Belisle steps into a wedding reception with her team at Absolute Photo Booth, they’re not just bringing cameras and props. They’re bringing the promise of laughter, spontaneity, and memories that will last for decades.
The company, which Rosemarie co-owns with her husband Greg Belisle, operates under the umbrella of Absolute Entertainment. The Belisles have built a business that goes far beyond snapping photos. Their mission is simple but heartfelt — to put customers first and make every event unforgettable.
“This isn’t always about making money. It’s about memories,” Rosemarie explained. “We really work with everyone.”
That mindset has shaped every corner of the business. From the way they coordinate with venues and other vendors to the way they treat guests at the booth, the Belisles have built a reputation for professionalism, flexibility and joy.
For Greg, the backbone of the business is quality. “Our attention to detail, quality of our equipment, props and attendants — very professional at all times,” he said. “At our events, clients can be proud of the quality photo guests are receiving.”
That quality is shown in the equipment Absolute Photo Booth uses, from high-resolution cameras to flattering lighting and customized templates. Unlike many competitors who still rely on thin photo strips, Absolute Photo Booth prints 4x6 photos. “It’s easier to find a frame and it allows for more space to design a template and more space for the photo,” he explained.
Absolute Photo Booth is versatile, serving everything from birthdays to corporate functions, but weddings are where the Belisles shine brightest. They offer packages ranging from digital — only at $495 to the Helio Booth at $995, with the popular Aura Booth at $895 in between.
The Aura and Pylon booths are favorites because of their adaptabil-
ity. They can capture large groups or fit easily into tight spaces, and they are mobile. Rather than moving a crowd of guests to the booth, they can bring the booth to the dance floor. That mobility opens the door to more candid and unexpected moments, a feature that makes couples and guests alike light up. “It makes it more spontaneous and gives you unexpected moments,” Rosemarie shared. “You can have a lot of fun with it.”
But the Belisles know it’s not just about photos, it’s about experiences.
Couples can add scrapbooks or audio guest books to their package, with antique phones cleverly reconfigured to record heartfelt or humorous messages from guests.
“We try to do whatever we can to make it a personalized service,” said Rosemarie. That personalization can even extend to props and booth backdrops coordinated with the wedding’s color scheme.
“We want to be unique and give choices to the couples,” she added.
The props are a highlight of every event. Rosemarie keeps an entire arsenal at the ready, delighting adults and kids alike. “People do love the props,” she said with a laugh. “I especially love seeing the kids get into it.”
Both Greg and Rosemarie emphasize that their commitment goes beyond the equipment. “We always arrive early to set up, so everything looks perfect when guests arrive,” said Greg. “When working at a new venue, we do a site review, and we arrive early to work out any logistics to provide the best experience.” They also include an hour of idle time at no extra charge — something most vendors add a fee for — so that couples can have the booth open for the entirety of the wedding.
Rosemarie takes pride in blending traditional charm with modern convenience. While the industry trend leans toward digital delivery, Absolute Photo Booth continues to offer printed photos alongside digital options.
“The trend is more toward digital, but we’re maintaining the old style with prints,” she explained. “It warms my heart to see the smiles when people see the prints.”
Everyone who steps into the booth gets a copy of their photo — not just one for the group — and Absolute Photo Booth keeps digital copies archived for a couple of years so couples can always retrieve them if needed. For many families, those images become treasured keepsakes long after the party is over.
The Belisles are also committed to being flexible and collaborative.
They work closely with other vendors to ensure the booth doesn’t disrupt the flow of an event, and they adjust their schedule around each couple’s timeline.
“We pay close attention to the details and work as a team with vendors,” Rosemarie shared. “The goal is to make everything go nice and smooth.”
Teamwork was especially critical after the coronavirus pandemic, when couples who had postponed weddings rescheduled.
“After COVID, when everyone was having the weddings they missed, we bought more photo booths so people wouldn’t have to miss out,” Rosemarie recalled. The investment allowed Absolute Photo Booth to accommodate the surge of demand and ensured no couple had to forgo the experience.
Despite the logistical challenges of setting up equipment, managing props, and coordinating schedules, the Belisles said they wouldn’t have it any other way.
“We do it because we love it,” said Rosemarie. For her, the best moments are when guests tug her toward the dance floor or beam at their prints fresh from the booth.
“I love the creativity of the guests and the fun they’re having,” she added.
That passion is why Absolute Photo Booth has become more than a service provider — it has become a memory-maker. Every wedding is an opportunity to capture moments that couples and their families will cherish long after the music fades, and the Belisles never take that responsibility lightly.
Their advice to couples is simple and grounded in experience: enjoy the day, let go of the small stresses, and trust that the memories will take care of themselves.
“Enjoy every moment of your wedding day,” Rosemarie said. “Things will work themselves out.”
In the end, it’s not just about photographs or props. It’s about the stories those snapshots tell, the laughter frozen in time, and the heartfelt messages whispered into a vintage phone.
With Rosemarie and Greg Belisle at the helm, Absolute Photo Booth ensures those moments are not just captured but celebrated in the fullest sense.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON ABSOLUTE PHOTO BOOTH AND ITS SERVICES, VISIT ABSOLUTEPHOTOBOOTH.COM.
Carly & Gregory
IT’S ALL IN THE DETAILS
NOVEMBER 2, 2024
ALL PHOTOS FEATURED FROM THE CARLY & GREGORY WEDDING BY SIMONE PLUS PHOTOGRAPHY
Names: Gregory and Carly Smedberg
Ages: 31 & 27
Occupations: High School Teacher & Soccer Coach and Legal Investigator
Ceremony: Pinecroft Estate
Reception: Pinecroft Estate
Theme: Fall Rustic Barn
Bride’s Dress: Ceremony - Lulus, Reception - DB Studio
Bride’s Shoes: Lulus
Bridesmaid Dresses: Kennedy Blue
Men’s Suits: Duca Visconti diModrone by JCrew
Rings: Frank Darling (hers) / Handmade in Greece by Gold Cube Jewelry (his)
Flowers: Maryniski’s Flowers & Greenhouse
Caterer: All-inclusive venuePinecroft Estate
Cake: Amy Cakes LLC
Invitations: Handmade by Ann Green Cards
Hair: Annie’s Vanity Bridal
Makeup: MicroBeautyRI
Music: PowerStation Events
First Dance Song: "Home" by Matthew Hall
Best wedding advice: The best part of the wedding is that you’re getting married surrounded by your closest friends and family - focus on that!
Memorable Moment: The sun came out right as the ceremony started!
Honeymoon: Christmas markets throughout England (London, Nottingham, Birmingham, Cambridge, Manchester, Liverpool, Oakham/Stamford)
Sarah & Tyler
IT’S ALL IN THE DETAILS
NOVEMBER 2, 2024
ALL PHOTOS FEATURED FROM THE SARAH & TYLER WEDDING BY SAMANTHA TURCO PHOTOGRAPHY
Names: Sarah & Tyler Russell
Ages: 30 & 31
Occupations: Registered Nurse and Medical Device Sales
Ceremony: The Grand View
Reception: The Grand View
Theme: Purples
Bride’s Dress: Tulle Bridal
Bride’s Shoes: Steve Madden
Bridesmaid Dresses: Revelry
Men's Suits: Armando’s
Rings: Pucci’s Jewelers
Flowers: Lucille’s Floral
Cake: Gerardo’s Italian Bakery
Caterer: The Grand View
Invitations: Minted
Hair: Traveler Beauty Company
Makeup: Traveler Beauty Company
Music: Bryan Quitadamo (DJ) Bquity
First Dance Song: "Spin You Around" by Morgan Wallen
Memorable Moment: Tyler and I, during our ceremony, took part in a unique unity ceremony as a physical representation of our union — tequila shots and lime. Taking our first tequila shot together was very us and something no one expected!
Best wedding advice: Book your venue first and all other vendors as soon as you secure your wedding date. Use your friends’ talents and resources — you would be surprised at how much others can help. It truly takes a village!
Honeymoon: Puerto Rico
Melissa & Dan
IT’S ALL IN THE DETAILS
NOVEMBER 16, 2024
ALL PHOTOS FEATURED FROM THE MELISSA & DAN WEDDING BY SIMONE PLUS PHOTOGRAPHY
Names: Melissa & Dan Ballou
Ages: 28 & 35
Occupations: Registered Nurse & Police Officer
Ceremony & Reception: The Barn at Wight Farm, Sturbridge
Theme: Fall/Rustic
Bride’s Dress: Spark Bridal Boutique, Cranston, RI
Bride’s Shoes: Journee Collection, DSW
Bridesmaids Dresses: Azazie
Men's Suits: theblacktux.com
Rings: Eloquence Fine Jewelry & Gifts and brilliantearth.com
Flowers: Country Girl Collections by Anna Lucy
Caterer: All-inclusive venuePinecroft Estate
Cake: Ice Cream Bar, The Barn at Wight Farm
Invitations: Zola
Hair: Booked through Sarah Elizabeth Artistry (Sea Glam). Hair Stylist was Nicole Muir.
Makeup: Booked through Sarah Elizabeth Artistry (Sea Glam). Makeup Artist was Leah Kraft
Music: DJ, Champagne Toast
Entertainment
First Dance Song: "Forever After All" by Luke Combs
Memorable Moment: Our private first look with private vows was my favorite part of our day. It was so sentimental and meaningful to take in that special moment just the two of us! It is something I will remember forever.
Honeymoon: Saint Lucia at the Sandals Grande St Lucian
Maddie & Aaron
IT’S ALL IN THE DETAILS
NOVEMBER 4, 2023
ALL PHOTOS FEATURED FROM THE MADDIE & AARON WEDDING BY
SIMONE PLUS PHOTOGRAPHY
Names: Maddie Rimsa & Aaron Schmitt
Ages: 30 & 33
Occupations: Executive Assistant, Clinical Data Manager
Rings: Laura Preshong Ethical Fine Jewlery (hers) / Custom made by Best Man's Dad, Chuck Geller (his)
Flowers: Something Borrowed Blossoms
Caterer: Russell Morrin Catering & Events
Cake: Sin Bakery
Invitations: Bride
Hair: Bridesmaid, Jess Johnson
Makeup: S.R Pulling Makeup Artistry
Music: Luke Renchan Entertainment
First Dance Song: "Golden Hour" by Kacey Musgraves
Memorable Moment: Their sweet and emotional ceremony under an arch of books at the PVD Library lead by the Brides college roommate. The couple chose to not see their wedding bands which they bought for each other ahead of the ceremony. They passed their ring boxes to all the guests for a ring warming ceremony so guests could offer their warm vibes, positive thoughts, or prayers. The couple then saw their rings for the first time as they put them on their fingers!
