Revue West Michigan - JanFeb 2025

25 THINGS TO DO IN 2025

NEW RESTAURANTS + BARS TO TRY IN 2025

CAT AND NAT: RECKLESSLY RESPONSIBLE, RIDICULOUSLY FUN

REVUE'S 2025 WEDDING GUIDE + A CONVERSATION WITH WEDDING INDUSTRY PROS

WHAT'S INSIDE

JOSH VEAL , Managing Editor | josh@serendipity-media.com

Hello, Happy New Year, and welcome to the first-ever super special combined double issue of Revue Every January, we put out our guide for things to do in the year ahead, and then just one month later, it’s off the shelves. This year, in the interest of shaking things up and trying something new, we decided to give the issue more time to shine—while spending more of our energy in January and February on timely web stories covering what’s happening in the immediate future.

So, in the pages ahead, you’ll find 25 Things to do in ’25, but it’s really more than 25 things, as an idea like “Try a New Hobby” has tons of local options. You could easily try a dozen new hobbies this year! We talk about joining communities, getting outside (even in the snow), hanging with friends, visiting new restaurants and so much more.

This issue also has our annual Wedding Guide, for those of you planning nuptials in the year ahead. Congratulations! Check out our Q&As with local wedding vendors for ideas on how to make your special day perfect, and what to avoid.

Beyond that, we take a look at a young baker making her dreams come true, the rebirth of Sovengard, a visit from hilarious mom-fluencers Cat & Nat, new restaurants and bars to try this year, plus local arts news and more.

In 2025, we’re all about trying new things and changing up routine, whether it’s that restaurant you keep hearing about, that shop down the street you’ve never heard about, visiting a different park for your weekly walk—whatever gets you excited and feeling reinvigorated in the new year.

With plenty of local businesses recently suffering from a lack of support, I’d like to suggest everyone get out and enjoy new horizons while showing love to small businesses bringing unique, quality offerings to the area. They’re what truly makes West Michigan special.

‘Til next time,

WHO'S WHO

You may not be getting the BEST eNewsletter in West Michigan!

Confirm that you have great decision-making skills by signing up at RevueWM.com/Subscribe. BE A PART OF THE NEXT

Call (616) 458-8371 or email sales@revuewm.com CANNABIS & CBD Spotlight: Book Stores Space Deadline: 2/13/2025

Managing Editor | Josh Veal, josh@serendipity-media.com

Art Director | Courtney Van Hagen

Marketing Coordinator | Kelsey Shoemaker

Distribution | Kelli Belanger

Contributing Writers | Allison Kay Bannister, John Kissane, Eric Mitts, Michaela Stock, Zachary Avery

ADVERTISING

Media Sales Manager | Kelli Belanger, kelli@revuewm.com

Serendipity Media LLC

535 Cascade West Parkway SE Grand Rapids, MI 49546 (616) 458-6371 | www.serendipity-media.com

revuewm.com | @revuewm

Media Sales Consultant | Susan Smalley, susan@serendipity-media.com PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY:

FINDING AMELIA Taking Flight with Debut Album

| by Eric Mitts

Over two years, thousands of miles, and countless Zoom calls in the making, Grand Rapids rock band Finding Amelia released their debut album, Onwards and Upwards , on New Year’s Eve.

Celebrating the album, the New Year, and the start of an exciting new chapter for the band, they will host a release party at The Pyramid Scheme Jan. 4.

Doubling as the band’s official live debut, the show will introduce the five-piece to a new audience, although longtime fans of the local music scene might recognize some familiar faces.

Finding Amelia lead vocalist Sam Mann previously fronted GR pop rock act Mannhattan while he and bassist Joe Joel attended Calvin College, now Calvin University. That band gained quite a bit of attention, eventually signing with Pennsylvania indie label Prodigious Records. But after the COVID-19 pandemic hit, and put a pause on live music, they parted ways with their previous drummer and lead guitarist who moved on to other things in their lives.

Working closely with their former roadie and studio

engineer, Mark Townsend, as their new rhythm guitarist, they brought in lead guitarist Ethan Bilby, and one of Townsend’s oldest friends, Brandon Seliga – who also worked as a studio engineer for Prodigious Records – as their drummer.

There was only one problem. They were spread out all over the state, and all over the country.

Townsend was in GR. Bilby was on the East side of the state, and Mann was in Ann Arbor for grad school. Joel was in med school in the Caribbean, and Seliga was in Santa Monica, California.

“A big part of this album is it’s a new band with a lot of the same people, but you put one different person in a band and that can drastically change the tone of what you’re going for,” Townsend said. “And I think a big part of this album, the goal was to figure out what our sound is.”

The band chose to start with an album, rather than a number of EPs like a lot of bands release first right now, because they wanted to find that definitive rock sound that they feel like is missing in today’s music.

“I think that with us, because we are a very diverse group of

people, because we have such a collaborative process, and we draw from so many different genres, we really focused on just like rock ‘n’ roll,” Mann said. “We’re not trying to play to one of the subgenres. We’re not trying to play to a culture. We’re just trying to make rock. And we believe that rock transcends all.”

Describing Onwards and Upwards as “a raw and honest exploration of the challenges and triumphs of adulthood in one’s mid-20’s,” the 10-song album mixes modern rock, with metal and pop influences that feel right at home for the band that has played countless covers over the years, and has become obsessed with music.

“I think that it all hinges on the fact that even though this project is new, we have years of experience working with each other in other contexts,” Mann said. “So we understand each other very well, and we can communicate. It’s not like we’re learning who one another is with this distance between us. We already know each other very well, but we’re trying to learn how to create art in this space. And I think that it was a challenge, but it was kind of a unique opportunity to step

into a different form of creativity in that way.”

Despite endless hours behind their respective computer screens – often working in different time zones – the endless emails back and forth led the band to work collaboratively on every level, with no one person writing all the music.

“For the first, probably year of writing this album, half the band was nocturnal, and the other half was not because of work,” Townsend, who worked third shift at the time, said.

Late one night in a group chat they had discussing flights and how a loose aviation theme might fit the band, Mann woke up at 2 a.m. with the name Finding Amelia, after the famed lost aviator from the golden age of aerospace.

At that point the band had the song, “Paper Planes,” written with a huge, soaring chorus filled with lead guitar and a breathtaking violin part that serendipitously fit the aeronautical name without aiming for it, so they went with it.

While the album release party Jan. 4 at The Pyramid Scheme will mark the Finding Amelia’s first official show, they said that part of the reason they’ve taken so long is that they’ve re-engineered how

their live performance is done, so that it’s more streamlined from a technical standpoint, making them ready to play anything, anywhere, anytime.

“This is going to sound like hyperbole, but it’s not,” Townsend said. “If somebody wants us to go play Madison Square Garden tomorrow, or Mulligan’s tomorrow, we can show up and be completely prepared.”

Looking to play as many gigs as possible in the New Year, Finding Amelia has finally synced their schedules so they can finally play together here in West Michigan, opening for other bands, or out on tour.

“The album has had 10,000 steps to completion,” Townsend said. “But in what we want this band to be, it’s really just step one.” ■

FINDING AMELIA ONWARDS AND UPWARDS ALBUM RELEASE SHOW

Wsg. Smothers

The Pyramid Scheme, 68 Commerce SW, Grand Rapids Jan. 4, 7 p.m., $10, All Ages Finding-amelia.com, pyramidschemebar.com

Finding Amelia. BAND PHOTO BY DANIEL BAAS

CAT AND NAT: Recklessly Responsible, Ridiculously Fun

| by Eric Mitts

Social media superstars, podcasters, and viral video influencers

Catherine Belknap and Natalie Telfer, aka Cat and Nat, are best known for telling their #MOMTRUTHS. So trust them when they say that their live show will be “The Night of Your Life.”

“Everybody should go, because the night is designed to be the ultimate night out for any woman, doesn’t even need to be a mom,” Telfer told Revue . “It’s a night filled with everything that is just fun and funny. The two of us, we didn’t have a lot of opportunities, having seven kids, and husbands, to be able to go out. And so we were like, ‘If we were going to go out, what’s everything we would put in that night, if there was just one night only. And so we took all those elements, and we put it all into this.”

Longtime friends Cat and Nat first met in high school as teenagers. They went to the same summer camp, but then lost touch until they became moms and reconnected over Facebook.

Sharing feelings of loneliness, isolation, and disconnection as new moms, they soon started hosting and organizing wine and dinner parties to bring together other moms to share laughs and swap stories in their native Toronto. After the success of those events, they decided to take on the ridiculous standards placed on moms via social media by creating their own vlog series in 2014.

In the years since, they’ve performed over 100 live shows all across North America, racked up millions of views, and expanded their massive network of followers across nearly every digital platform.

But even as they got busier, and their audiences have gotten bigger, Cat and Nat said that they’ve never lost sight on keeping things all about connection and community.

“We’ve had people fly to the shows from all over,” Belknap said. “They come with their friends. So it really is about a night of community fun. We host you so you don’t feel like you don’t not know what to do. There’s cocktails, there’s mocktails, there’s entertainment, and there’s us.”

“It’s about laughter,” Telfer said. “It’s about positivity. It’s about women feeling like no matter who you are, if you’re alone or with your friends that you belong

because you’re there with us.”

And there’s lots of mom truths at the live shows, which has become the duo’s distinct brand.

“We talk a lot about our mom truths, including confessions from the audience,” Telfer said. “We love to get the audience to participate. And I think a lot of times people don’t know what they’re going to come for, but they dance, they sing, they laugh, they hug, and they just leave feeling like I’m part of a community that’s good in the world, and we don’t judge each other, and we’re still allowed to have fun.”

Absolutely enjoying every minute that they’re up onstage and out on tour, Cat and Nat are themselves escaping from their lives as moms back at home. Jokingly calling their tour the Reckless Abandonment Tour, they admit they had to learn to accept that things would be OK with their families back at home, and that it was important for them to help other moms get out and laugh.

“In the beginning, when we first had kids, we never left the kids alone, and we thought we were the only ones that could actually do it all,” Telfer said. “And we didn’t even give the husbands the opportunity to try, because we could do it better.

“And we couldn’t,” Belknap interjects. “But we thought we could.”

“So it was when you do that, then you take all of the stress and you put it all on yourself,” Telfer said. “And it’s not that other people weren’t available to help

you. You’re just like, ‘I got it, I got it.’ So when we started to do this, and we had the ability to go and travel and do these shows, and leave for the first time, we got to see that husbands, babysitters, our moms, other people were actually able to take care of our kids. And our kids saw that other people can love them and take care of them too. So for us, it was really transformational as moms, to realize that you do need to take time for yourself.”

As their kids have grown, Cat and Nat have candidly shared the ups and downs, the shifting challenges and triumphs of raising now teenage children in the age of social media, with all the pluses and minuses that come with it. Their families are proud of them for creating something that has become a mom movement online over the years.

“When our kids were little, people would ask, what does your mom do? And our kids had been heard saying, like, our moms help other moms,” Telfer said. “Not our moms go out on stage, or do this podcast, or wrote this book. Our moms help other moms. And it was like the most amazing thing because we had never said that to them. But that’s the way they saw it.” ■

CAT & NAT’S RECKLESS ABANDONMENT TOUR: “THE NIGHT OF YOUR LIFE”

Miller Auditorium, 1341 Theatre Dr., Kalamazoo

Feb. 22, 7:30 p.m. $39-49, $104 VIP Millerauditorium.com, catandnat.ca

YOUR MONTHLY GUIDE TO WHAT’S GREAT IN THE GREAT OUTDOORS

WALKING IN

A Winter Wonderland

| by Allison Kay Bannister

As the leader of a recreation group, I feel a lot of responsibility, and subsequent worry, for how an event I schedule turns out. Too much, I’m sure, but that’s probably a story for a different kind of publication, like maybe Psychology Today. I had what I will politely call a hiccup when my recent Hike the Lights at Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park, which had dinner and overnight accommodations centered around it, abruptly became a “Now, what?” situation. It turns out that Hike the Lights ends when they start preserving the trails for skiing. Insert shrug emoji here.

Suddenly we didn’t have a lit trail to hike after dark, and I started scrambling to let everyone know. Immediately, members rallied, with suggestions for other trails in the State Park we could hike instead and offers to brings their headlamps. I grabbed my light-up knit hat and threw it into my overflowing bag of gear that was getting loaded in the car. And, just like that, a crisis was averted.

A crowd of us descended on the city, determined not to let a little setback ruin the event so many of us were looking forward to for over a month. We had an early-bird meal at Bear Lake Tavern not far from Lost Lake Trail where we were headed

after. (Huge shout out to our incredibly patient and competent waitress, by the way.)

While Lost Lake Trail was not lit (except, oddly, for a small section in the middle), it was fairly easy to traverse. We’re all pretty seasoned at winter hiking, so we were well prepared, with the aforementioned lighted headgear, plus poles, traction cleats, snow pants, and layers, layers, layers. And, it was perfect. The cool air was invigorating, not biting, and the forest, illuminated partly by us and partly by a cloud-obscured moon, had a quiet, almost magical feel. Everyone enjoyed it, and I let out a huge exhale. Several of us commented that winter night hiking might be the best way to do it.

And, speaking of best ways to do things, let’s talk for a second about visiting the lakeshore. In summer, it’s crowded and all the hots spots are busy and lodging is pricey and let’s not even bring up parking. I’m not saying it’s not worth it, but I am saying that there’s a lot to be said for visiting the Lake Michigan region in other seasons. In addition to the year-round natural beauty, a lot of highly sought after places that you might otherwise have to book a year or more in advance are actually available. I had been really keen about staying at Tiny Digs Lakeshore, for example, but it was out of reach for numerous reasons.

But not in winter!

So, after our Lost Lake Hike, a bunch of us took over this little enclave of tiny houses, each with a different décor. The Tiki Hut was my favorite, but they all had their own charm. The one I stayed in with a friend had a little glitch, but it was made right, and ended up contributing to the evening’s theme of flexibility.

But, back to hiking at night in winter. There’s a right and a wrong way to do it, for sure. Going with a group, for one, is a must. There’s safety in numbers, and, as long as you do a periodic head count, a low risk of losing someone. There’s also the right equipment and attire, which I’ve mostly already detailed. And, the last part is location. Lost Lake Trail in Muskegon was ideal because the path we chose circled a very obvious landmark: the lake itself. We stuck to it and came out the other side with ease. It was also well marked with maps. Maps are good.

Other places around West Michigan that are conducive to winter night hiking are Blandford Nature Center, Wittenbach Wege Center, Howard Christensen Nature Center, Grand Ravines North County Park (which is paved and runs along the Grand River), and Roselle Park, also with some Grand River frontage and some paved paths. These are not only well-known, they’re also mostly flat. Flat is good, too. Even though we didn’t get to do what we planned, I still recommend checking out everything they have going on at Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park. See it all at msports.org

While you’re there, if you want to stay over at some adorable lodging, look into Tiny Digs Lakeshore. Book at tinydigslakeshore.com.

And, be sure to call ahead to Bear Lake Tavern, who do take reservations to fuel up before or wind down after your adventure. Get info at bearlaketavern.com. ■

PHOTO BY SUE HERMAN

PHOTOS BY ALLISON KAY BANNISTER

Located on the northwest corner of Lincoln Park on Bridge Street’s further West “business side” is a Grand Rapids’ Euro-dining staple, refreshed and reopened: The Sovengard.

Showcasing exemplary Norwegian cuisine and comfort Finnish foods, coowner and chef Rick Muschiana is proud to present his family operation’s second vision of what “farm-to-table” can actually mean for West Michigan restaurants, especially as a part of the “New Nordic” movement.

“It’s an organized way of thinking about how we make decisions on the food and drink we serve, how we treat vendors, and how we interact with our community,” Muschiana said.

What this means, essentially, is that when you and your guests arrive at Sovengard for a delicious meal, rest assured that over 90% of the ingredients on your plate have been grown, harvested, sold, and prepared for you right from your own backyard: rural West Michigan. The rotating, seasonal menu reflects the availability of certain, regional ingredients, too.

“West Michigan, in particular, has this astounding array of fruit and vegetable producers,” Muschiana said. “Meat, cheese, you name it. It’s almost all here.”

Fans of the original Sovengard should be

New Nordic Cuisine at THE SOVENGARD

| by Zachary Avery

already familiar with these high standards of sustainable dining from Muschiana and his team, especially since their first location lasted for all of six years and drastically rewrote the westside food scene in Grand Rapids. With unique, distinctive features like the vertical “Living Wall” and conjoined biergarten (”Beer Garden”), the original Sovengard quickly made a name for itself as a trendy, earthy new eatery.

Now, reopening after a two-year hiatus, Muschiana has reconciled with the fact that their team must start from scratch in some ways. However, their new space and accommodations seem to be the perfect new venue for their revitalized image.

“We’ve always loved the idea of utilizing older buildings and the infrastructure that’s already here,” Muschiana said. “That’s part of our sustainability goals; to be as friendly to the Earth as we can and tread lightly.”

When you step into The Sovengard, it feels as though you’ve entered some magical garden or grove. Large monstera plants and smaller potted greenery populate the window sills and ledges. Large, orange-peel light fixtures cast warm tones all around you, and a custom floral wallpaper in the adjoining dining rooms all cultivate a gorgeous interior design and remarkably

welcoming atmosphere.

“We have this term, ‘Hygge Hospitality,’ that we impart on our team,” Muschiana said. “We’re creating this idea of a really cozy dinner party at Sovengard each night and everyone’s invited. That flows into the culture here, how we relate to each other, the space, and how we greet our guests.”

This philosophy of “elevated coziness” carries over to the bar, as well, with its comfortable stools and golden brown colors. Notable, too, is the bar’s rotating cocktail menu which, similar to the kitchen’s dining menu, reflects the current Midwest season. For example, a new favorite of Muschiana’s is Sovengard’s sweet potato inspired cocktail, which will be carried over into the new year. Truly, The Sovengard’s bar menu is just as creative and experimental as its cuisine.

“The distilling scene is growing by leaps and bounds every year, especially in Michigan,” Muschiana said. “We do prominently feature local distilleries and things they make. We also do a lot of stuff in house.”

After only a first visit to Sovengard, it is clear to see that Muschiana’s passion and dedication to local cuisine and ingredients is no passing trend, but rather a hallmark of The Sovengard’s community mission. Connected to its dining rooms is a pop-up “Mini Green

Market” offering many of the same ingredients and spices used in the actual Sovengard kitchens, so customers might try cooking similar dishes at home. Other community events hosted there have promoted local booksellers and musicians, too.

It seems, after over 25 years in the food industry, Muschiana and family have truly found their own, unique brand in dining. Muschiana informed me, however, that his own love for food may have first begun with one of his earliest jobs in the industry, at a much older Grand Rapids staple: Marie Catrib’s in Eastown. He also explained its connection to a fan-favorite dish at Sovengard: a Finnish oven-baked pancake, Pannukakku.

“That was a magical place for so many employees and customers,” Muschiana said. “I was hired there in the early days of my career. Marie had a Pannukakku on her brunch menu, and I always loved it. That dish is in large part due to her.”

The Sovengard, like Marie Catrib’s, has certainly earned its place as an example of iconic West Michigan dining. Whether you knew them before or are entering their doors for the first time, Muschiana and staff are excited to share their vision of a sustainable, local food future with you. And, yes, they do take reservations. ■

RESTAURANTS & BARS to Try in 2025

| by Josh Veal

If you’re looking to add some variety to your life in 2025, one of the easiest ways is checking out a new restaurant or bar.

While we’ve seen some beloved eateries and watering holes close in recent times for a variety of reasons, we’ve also seen plenty of excellent spots open up over the past year—with more on the way. If you’ve been meaning to get out and try a new place, but aren’t sure what’s out there, we’re here to help.

Here’s our guide to new restaurants and bars to try in the new year.

For a new brunch experience, check out ALIBI in Portage at 153 W. Centre Ave. The menu is huge, with options from Breakfast Charcuterie to Wagyu Steak & Egg and a Veggie Scramble. They’re also open for dinner on the weekends, with a menu highlighting seafood and wine.

After being pushed out of their old location by the landlord, La Huasteca has returned in the form of Iker’s Tacos at 1634 Coit Ave. NE, Grand Rapids. Named after the family’s son who tragically passed last year, the restaurant continues to serve up their delicious burritos, tacos, tamales and other Mexican food beloved by the local community.

Where once stood Erb Thai at 950 Wealthy St., kitty corner from The Meanwhile, is now Thai Table . The owners moved here from Bangkok a year ago with the goal of bringing authentic, top-tier Thai food to the area. Due to those more traditional flavors and an eagerness to be part of the community, Thai Table has already developed a loyal following declaring it the best of its kind.

In Walker/Standale, at the former site of DeHop’s Brewing (363 Cummings Ave. NW), El Tapatio Mexican Grill & Bar has joined the ranks. You’ll find your favorite Mexican classics here, from fajitas to enchiladas, tacos, burritos, complimentary chips & salsa, margaritas and much more.

How are you feeling? Because Creston is feeling Good Good Good , thanks to the new natural wine bar and flower shop at 1590 Plainfield Ave. NE, Grand Rapids. Opened by three local aficionados, Good Good Good is all about delicious wines made with zero unnecessary additives and “minimal intervention.” Similarly, the flowers are grown by local farmers, with no dyes, sold seasonally. What was once the casual yet lively J.

Gardella’s Tavern is now Scholar (11 Ionia Ave. SW, Grand Rapids), a refined, charming, welcoming 3-story restaurant with a delicious fine cuisine. Each level has its own bar, dining area and charm, but across all three you’ll find the same expert hospitality and elevated cuisine.

In the heart of downtown is Road to Revitalize , a luxury juice bar. At 125 Ottawa Ave., you’ll find a variety of fresh, coldpressed, 100% organic juices, such as the Red Carpet, which has celery, cucumber, lemon, spinach, beet and carrot. They also have wellness shots, snacks and acai bowls.

From the people behind Butcher’s Union comes a new concept: Gin Gin’s . Opening doors just around the corner at 345 Summer Ave. NW, Grand Rapids, this new spot offers a diverse menu of American classics, including premium steaks, fresh seafood and handmade pasta. For drinks, they’re focusing on handcrafted martinis and vintage cocktails.

Taquero Mucho opened in the Godwin Heights neighborhood of Wyoming at 3536 S. Division Ave., developing out of a food truck business. With a bright pink aesthetic that’s perfect for taking pictures of your food, your friends or just the space itself, it’s a feast for the eyes along with a menu of tacos, burritos, quesabirria, tamales and much more.

The owner of El Granjero opened a second restaurant at 1202 W. Fulton St., right by the John Ball Zoo: Mercadito Mexican Eats and Treats. This new spot is serving up fun and creative eats inspired by Mexican street food, including savory ones like pambazo, flautas and elote, and sweet ones like mini pancakes, marquesitas, gansito preparado and more.

In the heart of downtown, The Nightwatch Lounge joined the city’s drinking scene. This new cocktail lounge at 201 W. Fulton

St., Grand Rapids is a highly curated space, intending to give a high-class experience, from the art on the walls to the lighting to the thoughtful cocktails, including multiple non-alcoholic options.

Allendale has a new coffee shop in the form of The Borough , which grew out of humble beginnings as a coffee cart serving out of a garage. The café at 10237 42nd Ave., Allendale serves up not just coffee concoctions, but American-style dishes including bagels, soup, salads and sandwiches, plus acai bowls, “all with a touch of innovation.”

Muskegon Brewing Company is the first brewery to join the ranks in a while, and we’re delighted to have them. Tucked away on Muskegon Lake, which feeds into Lake Michigan, the new spot has a beautiful view of the water on its large second-floor patio.

Street Chef Shaw opened his brick-andmortar location, MIZIZI , in Creston at 1539 Plainfield Ave. NE, Grand Rapids—the former site of Rinaldi’s. For years now, chef Kirel Shaw has been serving up a fusion of Latin American and East African street foods out of his traveling food truck. Head to the cozy takeout joint for quick service and delicious tacos, burritos, chappatis, pilau and more.

The people behind Social Misfits downtown expanded their kingdom into the ceded lands of Wahlburgers with The Foolery (10 Ionia Ave. NW, Grand Rapids), a “fine dive bar” serving up Detroit-style square pan pizza, nostalgic craft cocktails and cold beer.

Mangiamo is back, in the historic mansion at 1033 Lake Dr. SE, Grand Rapids. After seven years away, Mangiamo has returned with elevated Italian entrees like Lobster Tail Risotto and Conchiglie al Pesto. In the basement, you’ll find the new Mo’s Lounge, a retro cocktail lounge with libations ranging

from a classic Aperol Spritz to the fresh and herbal Lana del Slay. Salute!

Eastern Kille Distillery was finally able to open its Rockford location at 7755 Childsdale Ave. NE, right down the road from Third Nature Brewing. The new production space, restaurant and cocktail bar is the first time Eastern Kille has a kitchen, and they’re serving up pizza, apps and salad alongside a seasonally revolving menu of cocktails highlighting their own spirits, of course.

Up Leaf Café joined the lakeshore dining scene at 12371 James St., Holland. This is no ordinary café—the menu is full of rice bowls, noodle bowls, large spring rools, salads, and plant-based energy drinks. If you’re looking for healthy Asian fusion food in Holland, this is the place to be.

Crafted Copper opened doors in Kalamazoo at 229 E. Michigan Ave. This new bar has a wide array of cocktails, along with a tap wall and duckpin bowling. The beer is all self-pour, meaning you can pick and choose exactly how much of each craft brew you want to drink.

Right in downtown Grand Rapids, Big Mini Putt Club joins us from across the pond (and by that, we mean Chicago). Head to 70 Ionia Ave. SW for not just drinks, but 9 holes of challenging mini golf right inside the bar, along with a variety of free games like a Nintendo 64, darts and giant Jenga, plus card-operated games like air hockey, SkeeBall and arcade basketball.

Caledonia got a taste of Italy with Rossana’s Table at 107 E. Main St. The local owners of this eatery are dedicated to carrying on the legacy of their beloved Nonna and her kitchen. Head here for pasta, pizza, and Italian entrees, plus plenty of wine and cocktails. ■

25 THINGS TO DO IN 2025

| by Revue Staff

New year, new adventures! West Michigan is teeming with things to do, see, sip, and savor in 2025.

Whether you’re plunging into winter festivals, toasting summer sunsets on the lakeshore, or diving into the dynamic arts scene, the year ahead is practically begging you to explore—and we’re here to help you make your bucket list.

So, grab your calendar, round up your crew, and explore 25 ways to make 2025 your most memorable West Michigan year yet!

FUN OUTSIDE

DISCOVER A NEW TRAIL

Nothing will help you appreciate the natural beauty of Michigan and see your city with fresh eyes like walking along a trail that’s new to you. For instance, you can hike the serene, secluded, forested paths of Aman Park; walk the bridges and hills of Grand Ravines Park, which also hosts a dog park; wander the lakeside loops at Pickerel Lake Park in Rockford (especially gorgeous in autumn); or enjoy the critters and biodiversity of The Highlands at Blandford Nature Center, which is turning an old golf course back into a natural habitat.

WINTER SPORTS GALORE

Nothing makes you appreciate winter like getting out and enjoying a snowy sport. Carve up the slopes at Cannonsburg Ski Area, where skiing, snowboarding, and tubing await. For a retro ride, check out Mulligan’s Hollow in Grand Haven—a volunteer-run gem with old-school charm, but plenty of modern accommodations. Or, in Otsego, Bittersweet Ski Resort features a 350-foot vertical drop with 20 runs.

PLAN A BREWERY CRAWL

From cozy pubs to sleek taprooms, West Michigan is a beer-lover’s dream. If you haven’t been out to any breweries in a bit, know that they’re offering more than ever before, from tasty food to clever mocktails, indoor games, trivia, karaoke and much more. Just to give a few ideas, you could start at Brewery Vivant for Belgian-inspired ales, hit The Mitten Brewing Co. for pizza and IPAs, and finish at Speciation Artisan Ales for wild and funky sips.

EXPERIENCE HOLLAND’S SNOWMELT SYSTEM

In Holland, winter strolls don’t require ice skates—thanks to the city’s ingenious snowmelt system. Wander the warm, snow-free sidewalks, duck into shops like Dutch Village, The Seasoned Home or Apothecary Gift Shop, and finish with a latte from Lemonjello’s Coffee.

EXPERIENCE THE MAGICAL WORLD OF WINTER

Downtown Grand Rapids | Jan. 10-March 2 worldofwintergr.com

The World of Winter is Grand Rapids’ way of making life not just bearable, but incredibly fun in the heart of winter. It’s the largest winter festival in the United States, with over 100 FREE events, a ton of unique interactive art installations, astonishing performances, more than 50 ice sculptures, activities, programs and more. Here are just a few of the highlights this year:

OPENING EVENT: STARRY NIGHT DRONE SHOW

555 Monroe | Jan. 11

Join for the exciting Opening Kickoff Event! Enjoy live DJs, mesmerizing drone shows, captivating performances and delicious food trucks as they kick off the festival in style.

SILENT DISCO

Calder Plaza | Jan. 18

Dance under the stars with live DJs, fire performers and stunning light displays at the Silent Disco. Stay tuned as they get ready to announce the full DJ line up for this event.

ICE PARK & FOOD TRUCK RALLY

555 Monroe | Jan. 26

Get ready for a day of frosty fun, delicious food and an immersive sound experience at the Ice Park & Food Truck Rally! Expect games entirely made out of ice, interactive music setups, food trucks and more.

World of Winter. PHOTOS BY BRYAN ESLER

INDOOR ADVENTURES

VISIT A MUSEUM

Cold outside? Step into a world of wonder inside. Marvel at local history, ride the carousel, experience traveling exhibits, and get immersed in the Planetarium at the Grand Rapids Public Museum. Or, get out and explore contemporary and classic works at top-tier institutions like the Muskegon Museum of Art and the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts.

ESCAPE!

Doing an escape room with friends and loved ones might bring you closer together, or it might make you want to throttle each other, but either way, you’ll have fun. Put your brain to the test and see if you can puzzle your way out in time. Whether you’re cracking codes at The Great Escape Room, enjoying the immersive stories of Locked 460, or unlocking mysteries at The Ruse, it’s a thrilling hour of teamwork and tension.

BREAK STUFF AT BREAK ROOM THERAPY

889 76th St. SW, Byron Center

Sometimes, the best way to beat the winter blues is to shatter them into a million pieces. At Break Room Therapy, you can suit up, grab a bat, and go full Hulk-smash on glassware, electronics, and more. It’s exhilarating, stress-relieving, and perfectly legal destruction.

INDOOR GO-KART RACING

If you’re looking for some high-speed fun, we suggest doing it in a go-kart rather

than risking your life and car in a street race. There are quality karts to be found at Craig’s Cruisers and AJ’s, but if you want to race like a pro, check out Grand Rapids Grand Prix, home to a 30,000-squarefoot indoor track. The electric karts are fast (more so than a standard family fun center), the corners are tight, and there’s no snow or ice on the road to worry about.

TRY A NEW HOBBY

Don’t think you’re creative? Maybe you just haven’t tried the right thing yet! You can try glassblowing at Glass Art Kalamazoo, throw a pot at Benton Harbor’s Krasl Art Center, or paint your own pottery at The Mud Room in Ada. Best case: You discover a hidden talent. Worst case: You end up with a funny little conversation piece.

JOIN A NICHE HOBBY GROUP

Explore a new community—and maybe a new obsession. Learn to weave or knit with groups like the Queer Fiber Arts meetup at Lotus Brew. Dive into tarot and crystals with Witches of West Michigan. Or roll the dice at local board game nights with Good Game GR (or you can stop by House Rules Lounge anytime to meet fellow gamers).

GO FOR A WALKING TOUR

Uncover the secrets of your own city with Tours Around Michigan. From haunted ghost tours to historic strolls and riverfront rambles, these guided adventures reveal layers of local lore. The Historic Homes tours are getting especially popular, with stunning abodes like the Meyer May House to explore. Bonus: They’re accessible for all, having just won Favorite Accessible of the Year by Accessible Travel Press!

LAUGHTER, MUSIC, AND GOOD TIMES

LOCAL COMEDY NIGHTS

Shake off the winter chill with some belly laughs. Be astonished by magic and comedy together at Amaze & Amuse. Or catch the improv brilliance of Pop Scholars, a local group that’s been performing together for over a decade. Or, check out the The Comedy Project’s lineup of hilarious sketch and variety shows.

KARAOKE NIGHT

If you’ve never done karaoke, add it to your bucket list this year. There’s nothing like the feeling of getting up and singing, badly but enthusiastically, and getting applause and encouragement from strangers. There are tons of options in town, from Z’s Bar to Fulton Street Pub, The Foolery, Holiday Bar, Playstation Pub and more.

TRIVIA NIGHTS

Flex those brain muscles! There are all kinds of trivia nights in town, from 3 Gatos Brewery to Geeks Who Drink and QuizQuest at Harmony Brewing Co., Brewery Vivant, Speciation Cellars, Creston Brewing and many more. Keep an eye out for themed trivia nights on specific topics like The Office or Birdwatching.

CATCH A PLAY

Support local theater and experience a night of drama, comedy, or musicals. The Grand Rapids Civic Theatre puts on Broadway classics at the local level, while Circle Theatre and Farmers Alley Theatre deliver intimate and innovative

performances all winter long. Not to mention the progressive and experimental shows of Actors Theatre, and many more (check out our monthly Arts Calendar for a look at what’s coming to the stage).

CHEER FOR LOCAL SPORTS TEAMS

Embrace your inner superfan! Watch the Grand Rapids Griffins dominate the ice, root for the Grand Rapids Gold on the court, watch Grand Rapids Rise bump, set and spike at a professional level, or take yourself out to the ballgame with the West Michigan Whitecaps. Not into sports? You really don’t need to be! These events are filled with entertainment from start to end, not to mention tasty stadium food and beer.

Continued on page 22...

Grand Rapids Rise, The Stray, Glass Art Kalamazoo, Downtown Holland, Oasis Hot Tub Gardens, Mulligans Hollow, Grand Rapids Rise (below). COURTESY PHOTOS

GO SEE LIVE MUSIC | by Eric Mitts

Just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean the music scene here in West Michigan goes into complete hibernation. Lots of spots all around our area keep the music hot, with unique shows perfect for this time of year, and opportunities to explore even more genres and artists. Here are just a few to consider if you’re looking for something new, or different, in the New Year.

GOT COZY WITH JAZZ AT THE STRAY

4253 Division Ave. S, Grand Rapids | thestraycafe.com

Now known for hosting intimate concerts on weekend nights, showcasing original local artists and emphasizing close, careful listening, The Stray also has a weekly Jazz and Wine night every Tuesday. Hosted on alternating weeks by the Tommy Pancy Trio — featuring the saxophonist from rising GR jazz group Candid Antics (formerly known as Pocket Watch) — and the Dutcher Snedeker Trio – featuring the esteemed keyboardist for Earth Radio and Normal Mode – it’s a perfect mid-week unwind.

ROCK BY CANDELIGHT

Miller Auditorium Feb. 24, DeVos Performance Hall Feb. 25, The-rock-orchestra.com

Hear some of the hugest heavy metal and hard rock bands’ music in a whole new way with The Rock Orchestra, a 14-piece classical ensemble who perform by candlelit. The group has taken their renditions of tracks by bands like Metallica, AC/DC, Rage Against The Machine, Linkin Park, Guns N’ Roses, My Chemical Romance, and many others all around the world, wowing audiences with their fusion of classical and metal.

RELAX, READ, AND RECHARGE

PEOPLE-WATCH IN A COFFEE SHOP

Order a steaming cup, sink into a corner, and let the world pass by. At Lyon Street Cafe, the vibe is vintage and cozy. Lantern Coffee Bar and Lounge is great for curling up with a book downtown. Stovetop Coffee brings modern cool, while Scorpion Hearts Club feels like a warm hug.

READ A LOCAL BOOK

Pick up a book with hometown roots to support local and enjoy art with a West Michigan mindset. You can try Christopher Cosmos’ historical fiction like Once We Were Here, or Andrea Kasprzak’s magical musings like Romance the Every Day: Inspired Ideas for a Year of Little Luxuries, or Caitlin Horrocks’ collection of short stories like Life Among the Terranauts. Find these gems at local shops like Schuler Books or Books & Mortar.

TREAT YOURSELF

While you can do it all year-long, winter is the perfect excuse for pampering. Soak in the warmth at Urban You’s med spa, reset in the flotation therapy at Phlot in Eastown, or relax under the stars in a hot tub at Oasis Hot Tub Gardens, which is especially nice when the snow is coming down.

VISIT A SPECIALTY GROCERY STORE

Try a food you’ve never heard of before and stock up on gourmet goodies with a specialty grocery store. You can find plenty of international treats at Kingma’s, local deliciousness at Horrocks Market, and deli delights and imported goods at Martha’s Vineyard—or curate a quality charcuterie board from Aperitivo.

Winter Shows

1/26 Larry & Joe

2/16 Molly/Sallie Bacon & Brian Oberlin

20TH ANNIVERSARY FRETBOARD FESTIVAL

March 21-22 | Kalamazoo Valley Museum, Kalamazoo, Free

Making history while celebrating West Michigan’s deep-rooted musical history, the annual Fretboard Festival in Kalamazoo will return to celebrate the life and legacy of stringed instruments. Featuring music of nearly all styles and eras, with an emphasis on acoustic sounds, the festival features workshops, exhibits, and pop-up performances for an immersive experience capable of introducing new players to the art form, and warming the hearts of longtime enthusiasts as well.

STAFF PICKS

GO BIG (AND MINI) INDOORS

BIG MINI PUTT CLUB

Think that the snow and frigid temperatures of a Michigan winter mean that you can’t golf in January? Think again, with the recently opened Big Mini Putt Club, a nine-hole indoor mini golf course, bar and restaurant located right in the city. A great spot for craft cocktails on a cute date night, or a way to spend the day with your whole family, this indoor playground promises endless fun for putters of all ages. — Eric Mitts

BATHE IN SOUND BENEATH THE STARS

Grand Rapids Public Museum Planetarium

60-minute sound bath designed to relax, rebalance, and recalibrate, body, mind, and soul. Open to anyone 18 and older, the truly one of a kind restorative escape has limited spots available, so book now if you want to get transported by the sounds of the stars. — Eric Mitts

HERB ALPERT AND THE TIJUANA BRASS AT DEVOS PLACE

Details at saltoftheearthfennville.com

On Feb. 28, bid winter farewell with Catherine Schmidt from Yoga Zen in Caledonia, during an experience unlike any other. Underneath the starry dome of the planetarium inside the Grand Rapids Public Museum, immerse yourself in the sounds of meditative instruments for a

If you’re a person of a certain age (I’m guessing a lot of you aren’t, but hear me out), then you very likely grew up with Whipped Cream & Other Delights spinning on your household turntable. And, no matter your persuasion, you were likely fascinated by the barely clad, strategically frosted Dolores Erickson who graced the album cover. Everything about this LP is iconic, and the opportunity to see the legend live should not be passed up. One night; May 11 at 7:30 p.m. — Allison Kay Bannister ■

Amaze & Amuse, Big Mini Putt Club. COURTESY PHOTOS

Participants:

ALI MCPHERSON

The Cheney Place www.thecheneyplace.com

ROMAN PETRACK

All Your "I Do" To-Dos

| by Allison Kay Bannister

A Conversation with Wedding Industry Pros

Oh, hey. Did you or someone you know get engaged over the holiday season? Now that the celebrating has settled, it’s time to start planning. We gathered experts to talk everything wedding and find out what they had to say about the soon-to-be wed’s biggest questions!

How can the couple make their wedding day memorable—in a good way—for themselves and the guests?

ANDREW: If the couple can get themselves to the dance floor for most of the night, guests will follow. There are a lot of fun and memorable moments that happen on the dance floor.

PHERN: Be as present as you possibly can. Weddings can be extremely overwhelming and demanding and the best thing you can do is take a deep breath, savor each happy moment, and make your guests feel seen.

What trends are you seeing in your industry?

ALI: Clients are looking for a venue that is a clean slate so they can add more color to the space. This is with their table linens, table decor, flowers, or bridesmaid colors.

AMANDA: As planners and experienced curators for our beloved clients, we don’t even consider the words “trendy” or “fad” in our planning process. We wish with all our hearts that our couples would make choices for their wedding day that felt truly authentic to them and their life experiences.

When should the newly engaged start looking for vendors or services, and what is your advice for finding the right ones?

ALI: Right now, we are seeing couples book about a year out from their desired timeframe. If clients do not have a specific date, then they still have a bunch of options at that year mark. Previously, venues were booking out at that two year mark, but recently that is not that case.

ANDREW: 6–12 months for DJ services. Do your research and read reviews and lean on the venues for their guidance as well.

Executive Chef/Owner at Kangaroo Kitchen www.kangarookitchengr.com

ANDREW ROUNDS

Owner at Music Host Entertainment www.musichostentertainment.com

AMANDA ELMERGREEN

Creative Director at Modern Day Collective moderndaycollective.com

PHERN CAIN

Wedding Photographer at The Wild Phern www.thewildphern.com

LEXI BROWN

Marketing Manager, Magnolia Bridal www.magnolia-bridal.com

ROMAN: The couple will want food that is not the normal catering food. They want their dinner to be seen as more of a dinner party.

ANDREW: Group photos on the dance floor, sparkler send offs at the end of the night, and private last dances for just the couple.

LEXI: Right now, we are seeing square necklines, leg slits, pearls, and Basque waistlines. With the Spring season quickly approaching, we are sure to see new trends emerge!

Are there any fads that you believe should be avoided?

ALI: Champagne towers during receptions. They always sound like a great idea and are fun for photos, but they are not practical. Champagne ends up on the floor more than the glasses and leaves the largest mess in the room right before dinner starts.

ANDREW: Dollar dances.

AMANDA: We recommend booking your vendors in “tiers,” based on how quickly they book up in advance, and how crucial they are to creating the atmosphere and aesthetic of the day you want. The most important vendor you will hire as the springboard to everything else is your wedding and reception venue(s), because it provides the date and location of your wedding day.

PHERN: Absolutely take the time to meet with them! Your vendors can make or break your wedding day, and it’s best to not only do your own research, but to also connect with them.

LEXI: It is ideal to say yes to the dress 9–12 months before the wedding to allow time for shipping and professional alterations. We recommend planning as early as possible so couples can also enjoy their engagement, since that is an important part of their relationship too. Finding the right vendors takes research & patience. It helps to utilize local Facebook bride-to-bride groups and ask already hired vendors for recommendations.

What little (or big!) things do couples often forget? Or, what aspects do you wish they thought more about?

ALI: We always remind our clients to think through their timelines. We encourage them to add in time to just take a breather and some time alone. The time flies by so fast that day and taking those moments makes the day feel longer and adds to the memories.

ROMAN: It’s often the small things, such as a cake box for the top tier of their wedding cake. Or, things like napkin fold or food for guests with dietary needs.

ANDREW: Spread your time out evenly through the reception. It’s a balance of dance floor time, bar time, and conversations with guests. Try to get through the conversations earlier in the evening so you have more time to dance with guests.

LEXI: This seems silly, but brides: Hold your bouquet low! Holding it at your waist will hide the top of your dress. Show off that beautiful gown!

How are weddings changing, even from just a few years ago? What’s driving that change and how are you responding?

ALI: Currently, we are seeing micro weddings becoming more popular. As a venue, we are trying to find ways to make our spaces feel more intimate while in a space that can accommodate 300 guests. We have been adding in lounge seating to the open space and having our clients only have 8 guests per table instead of 10.

ANDREW: We are seeing a lot of the old formalities fading away. Paired wedding party intros are a thing of the past, cake cuttings are not featured as much, and couples seem to want a streamlined, simplistic approach to their timeline.

AMANDA: We are seeing an uptick in digital involvement with a large portion of the communication to wedding guests coming via a wedding website. Most couples are still designing and mailing beautifully classic invitation suites, but opting for RSVP returns to be made via the website.

LEXI: I think COVID brought true intimacy back into weddings. Many couples scaled back to smaller, simpler, and more intimate weddings during that time. We are seeing a continuation post-COVID as people realize the true meaning behind a wedding: The marriage. Brides are still wanting and deserving to feel beautiful in a gown.

What is the single biggest thing you want the couple to consider in their wedding plans when it comes to your industry specifically?

ALI: Have your whole wedding day at one location! The couple can still go off-site to take photos during the day, but once the ceremony starts, everything is in one spot. Our venue specifically, the clients can get ready, do their ceremony, their cocktail hour, and their reception all without leaving the venue.

ROMAN: To provide a meal that their guests are going to remember. It is always nice for the couple to still receive compliments long after their wedding. And guests will often mention the food as one of the main things that was great about the reception. Yes, it’s their special day, but it is also nice for them to receive compliments on the things their guests enjoyed.

ANDREW: Allow your DJ to manage the timeline tasks for you and do your best to maximize your time on the dance floor. That’s why you hired a DJ to begin with.

AMANDA: We recommend shortly after enjoying the celebration of their engagement that couples have the critical budget conversation. Spending a concerted amount of time on allocating the budget will give couples the information to discern where their priorities should be along the planning process.

PHERN: Raising your budget for photography. The photos are what you walk away with and get to keep for the decades of your marriage. A good photographer can make a $15k wedding look like a $40k wedding, and a bad photographer can make a $250k wedding look like a $15k wedding.

LEXI: Brides should look into shops prior to booking appointments. It’s important to find the right fit in terms of experience, timeline, size inclusivity, style, and budget. Having a good idea of what each shop has to offer before shopping will make the most of her time spent finding the dress. ■

Kangaroo Kitchen. COURTESY PHOTO

REVUE'S 2025 Wedding Guide

| by Josh Veal

VENUES

Grand Rapids Art Museum

The Ballroom at McKay, New Vintage Place, Black Barrel Bar. COURTESY PHOTOS

Planning a wedding day in West Michigan? You’ll want the crème de la crème of local vendors and suppliers to make it truly unforgettable.

From stunning venues and delicious caterers to chic bridal shops and trendy mobile bars, the options are nearly endless. While we can’t possibly cover them all, we’ve rounded up a few standout picks for luxurious splurges, budget-friendly finds, and everything in between.

Here’s Revue’s guide to some of the best in town to help make your big day perfect.

101 Monroe Center St. NW, Grand Rapids artmuseumgr.org

Celebrate your love surrounded by art and elegance. Located in the heart of downtown, this modern architectural gem offers sleek lines, soaring glass walls, and a stunning outdoor terrace overlooking Rosa Parks Circle. With its blend of contemporary design and artistic ambiance, the museum provides a unique and sophisticated setting for your wedding day. As one of the only downtown wedding venues with an outdoor ceremony option, it provides a rare blend of urban charm and natural beauty.

Frauenthal Center

425 West Western Ave., Muskegon frauenthal.org

This historic building and its beautiful facilities are the perfect backdrop to your special occasion, with multiple venues to choose from—ranging from the 100-seat Frau Lounge on the lower level to the 150-seat ballrooms (275 seats if you join the rooms together) on the third floor. The staff here are known for providing excellent accommodations and attention to detail with budget pricing.

New Era Wedding Barn

4701 W. Stony Lake Rd., New Era neweraweddingbarn.com

Nestled in the charming countryside of New Era, this venue offers a beautiful, budget-friendly space for couples looking to create their dream wedding without breaking the bank. Featuring vaulted ceilings and warm wood tones, providing a rustic yet elegant canvas that’s perfect for DIY personalization. Its outdoor ceremony area makes it easy to host your entire celebration in one location. With flexibility for your own vendors and décor, this venue empowers you to craft a wedding that’s as unique and affordable as it is unforgettable.

The Rutledge

120 Ionia Ave. SW, Grand Rapids therutledgegr.com

In the heart of downtown lies The Rutledge, “a new classic.” This renovated historic building sports gorgeous hardwood floors and tons of classic exposed brick, alongside modern touches (like a chalkboard mural) to make the space welcoming and photogenic. Plus, the Baltic Suite is a luxurious, complimentary respite for preparing and slipping away on your special day.

The Ballroom at McKay

146 Monroe Center St. NW, Grand Rapids theballroomatmckay.com

Located in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids, The Ballroom at McKay exudes timeless sophistication and grandeur. Featuring stunning chandeliers, intricate architectural details, and a spacious layout, this historic venue offers a luxurious setting for your wedding day. With its elegant charm and central location, The Ballroom at McKay is ideal for creating unforgettable memories.

The High Five

19 LaGrave Ave. SE, Grand Rapids thehighfivegr.com

This expansive, beautifully renovated loft space exemplifies the best in “old world meets new.” High, wood-beamed ceilings, large windows, original roller-rink hardwood floors, exposed classic brick, extraordinary chandeliers and no pillars—now there’s a strong aesthetic.

Greencrest Manor

6174 Halbert Road, Battle Creek greencrestmanor.com

In enchanting woods outside of Battle Creek lies Greencrest, a European-style venue with cascading ivy, sprawling gardens, a wrought-iron gate and more. It radiates warmth and historical opulence.

New Vintage Place

889 Broadway Ave. NW, Grand Rapids newvintageplace.com

Nestled in Grand Rapids’ vibrant West Side, New Vintage Place blends historic industrial charm with modern elegance. This thoughtfully restored venue features soaring ceilings, original exposed brick, and expansive windows that flood the space with natural light. With a versatile layout and passionate staff, it’s the perfect backdrop for your special day.

The Cheney Place 1600 Monroe Ave. NW, Grand Rapids thecheneyplace.com

One of the most beloved venues in town for many reasons. Have the entire wedding (ceremony and reception) in one “urban meets vintage meets modern” warehouse space with frosted windows and vintage furniture.

CATERERS

Distinctive Catering distinctivecatering.com

Established in 1995, Distinctive Catering has become one of the region’s premier caterers, providing outstanding food with impeccable service at more than 100 local venues, not to mention bar services as well.

Rise Authentic Baking Co. riseauthenticbaking.com

Gluten-free, vegan, soy free, dye free—Rise Authentic Baking has delicious baked goods for everyone, and that includes cakes, cupcakes, donuts, brownies and more.

Two Scotts Barbecue twoscottsbbq.com

Some of the best barbecue around (or anywhere), Two Scotts is a true crowdpleaser. Pulled pork, brisket, burnt ends, mac and cheese, coleslaw—they have it all.

Pizza Parliament Food Truck pizzaparliament.com

Everyone loves pizza, and this food truck has plenty of it. There’s basic personal pizzas alongside politically named specialty pizzas like the Bernie Scrambles, a breakfast pie.

Gettin’ Fresh gettinfreshevents.com

Gettin’ Fresh is a West Michigan catering and food truck company with a focus on high quality ingredients and bold flavors. You are able to customize your menus, ranging from traditional American style options to global infusions with unique flavor combinations.

BEVERAGES

Tipsy Burro thetipsyburro.com

Who needs cocktail waiters when you can have a charming little donkey serving up beverages at your wedding? The Tipsy Burro has two loveable miniature donkeys, Benny and Bandit, ready to melt hearts at your reception. They can dress however you like, and will roam around with whatever you give them to carry—champagne, beer, tequila, party favors, ice cream, it’s up to you. There’s nothing else like it in West Michigan.

Black Barrel Bar blackbarrelbar.com

There are now a few mobile bars in town, and Black Barrel Bar is one of the best. Their renovated 1971 Airstream Land Yacht mobile bar is beautiful, elegant and modern after an eight-month face lift, the perfect fit for any wedding. Plus, they provide full bar service, with bartenders, booze, glassware and insurance.

Beviamo! Mobile Bar  beviamobar.com

Started in 2019, Beviamo! offers a range of options. Book Vinny, the built-to-look-vintage camper bar that’s cute and colorful. Or go with the smaller option, Mini Vinny, an equally cute custom-built bar cart. Either way, they create delicious craft cocktails for your special day, alongside tasty mocktails for the underage and sober.

BRIDAL BOUTIQUES

RC Caylan Atelier

1876 Breton RD. SE., Grand Rapids rccaylan.com

RC Caylan’s wide array of creations ranges from fashionable red-carpet gowns, bridal gowns, bridal entourage wears and even men’s suits. This company is dedicated to giving each client a one-of-a-kind outfit that matches their personal style and aesthetic.

Renee Austin Wedding

1555 Plainfield Ave. NE, Grand Rapids reneeaustinwedding.com

A powerhouse in the West Michigan wedding industry, Renee Austin is known for an intimate backdrop, personable staff, and an exclusive collection of elegant, glamours and chic gowns.

BIANKA Bridal

125 Ottawa Ave. NW, Grand Rapids biankabridal.com

This boutique is full-service, family owned, and fueled by love. Their passion is to create an experience you will remember as the highlight of your wedding planning process; the day you found the gown of your dreams.

Memories Bridal 203 E. Michigan Ave., Kalamazoo dresslikeyou.com

At Memories, dedicated bridal stylists work one on one with each bride, giving you the attention you deserve and helping you find the dress perfect for you. They learn about your personality, style, wedding dreams, and what makes you feel your most beautiful.

WEDDING PLANNERS

Let’s Have a Bash mi-bash.com

Day-of coordination, month-of coordination, concept design and execution, website design—Let’s Have a Bash does it all. They were voted top spot for event planners in Revue’s very own Best of the West for good reason!

Tanya Lynnette Events tanyalynnetteevents.com

Tanya Lynnette’s team is a healthy split of analytical and creative, working in both color wheels and spreadsheets. The TLE team has 24 years of experience in coordination and planning events, and perhaps more importantly, they love to celebrate diversity and specialize in LGBTQ+ marriages.

7th on Lincoln 7thonlincoln.com

From elopements to one-time consultations, day-of coordination and full-scale wedding planning, 7th on Lincoln does whatever you need.

RSVP Events events-by-rsvp.com

People love Adrien and her team at RSVP events, as they have over 15 years of experience, so you know they’ll think of every little detail and are equipped to deal with whatever unexpected challenges life throws your way. ■

IA Fully Baked Idea: OG'S BAKERY

| by Allison Kay Bannister

was sitting at a tall table at Foxtail Coffee in Ada Village having tea with a young woman who could have been any recent college graduate. The guy sitting next to us couldn’t help but overhear our conversation, and he felt comfortable interjecting to ask questions a number of times. Truth told, I was thrilled that he was so interested, and it reinforced what a unique exchange we were having.

The person I was interviewing was Olivia Gargett, owner of OG’s Bakery. At just 22 years old, she’s running her own cake pop and custom cookie business—and she’s killing it. If you made it to the Christkindl Markt this past season, you would have seen her there (and hopefully stopped by to pick up some sweets) and she’s also expanding her orders to a major coffee shop chain, in addition to her regular orders for weddings, baby and bridal showers, graduations, birthdays, family parties, and more.

Did I mention that she’s 22?! Her age is a key identity of the OG brand, and being seen as an inspiration for other young entrepreneurs—especially women—is part of the big picture that she aims to achieve.

Olivia’s story starts at age 13, when she was inspired by the show “Cake Boss.” She had passion and natural talent, but, as it turned out, it wasn’t cakes that ended up making her a boss. They were too time-consuming to make the work profitable, so she shifted to grab-and-go treats, which are more convenient for consumers and cost effective for her. It’s just one of the many lessons she learned along the way.

While attending MSU to study business and entrepreneurship, Olivia gained a mentor who encouraged her to enter a pitch competition with a $15,000 award. She participated thinking she’d get experience pitching and networking, but she ended up winning. “I was the youngest student who pitched, and I went in just wanting to learn,” Olivia says. “When I won, I realized these judges—these successful people—saw something in me, and I needed to see that through and discover what that was.”

Coming out on top not only validated her business idea, it also helped fund it. Olivia credits her parents’ support, too, as well as the Forest Hills/Ada community, for helping her get off the ground.

OG’s Bakery products have become so sought after that she’s needed to bring in help. Hiring a part-time employee, and finding the right person who could be flexible with changing obligations, was a challenge in its own. Anyone who’s ever had to manage someone nearly twice their age, or been on the other side, knows there are tricky dynamics in play. And, trusting someone with the products she’s built

her reputation on wasn’t easy either. It’s all part of growth, though—for her business and herself.

“It was definitely hard to let go of control to someone to decorate and handle the products that are like my baby,” Olivia says. “But I got very lucky. She’s absolutely amazing, and her being older actually is a blessing, because she has so much wisdom and work ethic from being in so many different job areas.”

So, what’s next? (Because we know this is only the beginning!) On the immediate horizon, Olivia is transitioning from her rented space at the Downtown Market’s Incubator Kitchen to a larger, more accommodating space in Holland. Though she’s still in the exploratory phase right now, she envisions expanding to higher-volume, larger-scale wholesale manufacturing or grocery store retail. And, she’s definitely looking into creating gluten-free options because there’s been such a demand for them.

Olivia is also focusing on the brand side of things. She sees herself being able to be a mentor for others—especially young people—and she gets excited to help when fellow classmates ask her for advice and guidance. Because of that, workshops are a route she’s considering, whether it’s teaching the ins and outs of a baking business or serving as a coach from an entrepreneurial/startup perspective.

The big takeaway that closed our conversation is her eagerness to give back, as well as her gratitude for the community who has been behind her from the beginning. “It’s so precious that everyone wanted to support me and buy my stuff when I was so young,” Olivia says. “There’s something really special about this area and all these startups here that are smaller businesses. Everyone here wants to help each other.”

Want to be part of that energy? Place an order at ogsbakery. com or follow her at instagram.com/ogs_bakery, facebook. com/ogsbakery, and tiktok.com/@ogs_bakery to see where she’ll pop up next! ■

OTHER ONLINE BAKERIES

MIDNITE PATISSERIE midnitepastry.com

SUNDAY BAKEDAY sundaybakeday.com

THE ONLY WAY TO BAKE facebook.com/gluten.eggs.butter

OG's Bakery. COURTESY PHOTOS

MORE SPACE, MORE STORIES:

| by John Kissane

Muskegon Museum of Art's Expansion

Lumber baron Charles Hackley once said, echoing Dale Carnegie, that he believed—at least to an extent— that it was a crime to die rich. A lifelong philanthropist, he directed via his will that $150,000 of his fortune, or nearly $5 million in today’s money, be used for the purchase of “pictures of the best kind.” The Hackley Picture Fund was thus established, leading, in 1912, to the opening of the Hackley Art Gallery.

In 1980, an addition was built onto the gallery, at which time it was renamed The Muskegon Museum of Art. Despite the sizable addition, the museum ran out of space more or less immediately due to its ever-growing collection, meaning that most of its art remained, most of the time, in storage, out of view of the public.

“We’re a pretty small facility,” Kirk Hallman, Executive Director of the museum, said. “About 31,000 square feet.” On a good day, 125-150 pieces are on display. Among those items languishing in storage are beautiful glass pieces, Renaissance-era prints, and more. Additionally, the museum’s size meant that certain touring shows simply could not be accommodated. Good art, which might otherwise have been seen in the community, went unseen. And the storage

space was busting at the seams even as new works were acquired.

Something had to change.

Six years ago, an expansion project began. “The scope was driven in part by budget,” Hallman said. “How much could we feasibly raise? We ended up with a sweet spot, where cost and our needs really lined up. There were some cost escalations, but it worked out, and we’re very happy with the extra space. We’re able to grow and sustain that growth for really the next century.”

About half of the $15.4 million needed to fund the project came from the local community. That investment speaks to the importance the museum has in the community. Additionally, a quarter of the funds came from outside the state of Michigan, speaking to the museum’s long tenure and significant national reputation.

Six years and an enormous amount of man hours have gone into the project, which was completed in late 2024. In February, the museum (which has not shut down in the interim) will usher attendees into its expanded space.

Added to the museum are four new exhibition galleries, one 5,000 square feet; that large gallery will allow for major touring exhibitions, including one devoted to Julia Child. Additionally, two classrooms, a store,

new storage space, a workshop, additional support spaces, and a public sculpture garden/greenspace have been added. All in all, the Muskegon Museum of Art now has 18,675 square feet of exhibition space.

“We’ll have an area dedicated to glass,” Hallman said. “Prior to this, we got it out so rarely.” Among the glass pieces belonging to the permanent exhibitions is Cobalt Blue Persian Set With Cadmium Red Lip Wraps, a beautiful piece that evokes both flowers and the sea. Just as evocative is Il Centesimo, by Toots Zinsky, one of Chihuly’s first students. It looks like nothing so much as a petal about to unfurl; as marvelous as its depiction of nature is, its implication of motion is even more stunning. And it’s just one of many astonishing pieces that will be brought out into the light.

Prints from Ansel Adams, Rembrandt, Gustav Doré and others will have a dedicated space. Due to their fragile nature, they require special light; the new space dedicated to them will allow them to be up continually, permitting these important works to be viewed by many more people than would otherwise have had the opportunity.

“We’re getting the Bennett Collection,” Hallman said. The collection includes more than 200 works of representational figurative art by accomplished women artists, both

contemporary and historical. Mary Cassatt, Elaine de Kooning, and Zoey Frank are among the many represented. Five centuries of artists are included in the collection.

There will be exhibitions of American artists who studied in Paris and of animation. For the latter, cell animation and storyboards of Disney films, from Snow White through The Little Mermaid, are included, in an exhibition sure to appeal to people across generations.

“We know we can attract a crowd,” said Hallman. In 2017, a North American Indian exhibition was housed, in part as an experiment: how wide of an audience could the museum draw? Attendees arrived from not only all fifty states, but from other countries, too. Dressing The Abbey, devoted to costumes worn on the popular television show Downton Abbey, drew many visitors, too, as did an exhibition of John Steuart Curry’s work.

So it was clear that the museum could draw a crowd. But large touring shows would historically bypass the museum. “They said we didn’t have the capacity, the floorspace. But now we do.”

And, now that they do, the shows will be coming; exhibitions are planned as far out as 2028. One exhibition sure to draw a crowd is Julia Child: A Recipe For Life.

Dedicated to the famed author, cook, and television personality, the interactive exhibition explores her life—from her early days in Paris to her cookbook and PBS show. Highlights include an interactive studio kitchen, an immersive restaurant experience, and more. It will open June 4th, 2025.

The expansion speaks to the health of the museum. Asked why the museum’s thriving in today’s digital world, Hallman spoke to the continued importance of in-person

experience. “Look, I’ll tell you right off that you can find some incredible reproductions of art online. Sotheby’s and Christy’s in particular have super high-resolution photos. But it’s not the same. You need to press your fleshy eyeballs against those paintings. They just pop in person.”

There’s a mystery behind paintings, he said, one that cannot be duplicated online. “That’s why people travel across the country and across the sea.” ■

WHEN YOU MAKE THE GREAT CHOICE TO BECOME A MEMBER YOU WILL RECEIVE:

» Revue Magazine shipped to your home every month.

» An exclusive gift of a Revue t-shirt created to turn heads while you turn pages.

» A Revue sticker to let everyone know you are in the know.

» A letter from our managing editor welcoming you to a great year of West Michigan content.

» Exclusive local discounts and promotions from our advertisers.

A MYTH FOR THE MODERN AGE:

'Eurydice' at Opera Grand Rapids

| by John Kissane

First in October of 1600, Jacopo Peri’s “Euridice” is the oldest surviving opera. Peri, in sympathy with the majority of Florence’s musicians and men of letters, found inspiration in the spare and resonant stories of the ancient world.

That the opera was inspired by the tale of Orpheus and Eurydice proved to be no outlier; the 17th century alone saw twenty operas based on the myth. All told, over seventy operas tell the story of the singer who descends into Hades to rescue his beloved Persephone—or to nearly do so.

Among the latest is Matthew Aucoin’s Eurydice . An adaptation of Sarah Ruhl’s play of the same name, it debuted at the Los Angeles Opera in February of 2020 before a run at the Metropolitan Opera in November of 2021. A scaled-down version, co-commissioned by Boston Lyric Opera and Opera Grand Rapids, will play at the Betty Van Andel Opera Center January 31st-February 1st.

Asked why the story continues to inspire new art, Emilee Syrewicze, Executive Director of Opera Grand Rapids, points to its humanity. “Even though it’s an ancient story, the complications of human relationships are as old as time. Those things won’t change as long as humans exist.”

Aucoin agrees that its themes are evergreen. “This is the foundational story that tells us that music can conquer death, that it can triumph over our mortality. It endures not only for that reason, but it’s pretty brutal about human nature. Yes, music can make us briefly immortal, but we’re human. We’re going to screw things up.”

Aucoin had been considering an expansion on an Orphic piece he’d written when his sister recommended he read Ruhl’s play. When he did, he found it to be magical. “You think you know the story, you think it’ll be a retelling, but it’s not.” The

play, he found, told a story about loss, family, memory, “and what you can–and cannot-take from this world.”

He knew he wanted to work with Ruhl. He reached out, suggesting a collaboration. Ultimately, they decided to collaborate on an adaptation of her play: libretto by her, music by him. He found it to be a relatively painless process. “The play was already pretty spare. It wasn’t like cutting down Shakespeare, where you have to throw out 90% of the words.”

Like the play, the opera centers Eurydice rather than Orpheus. She operates in a greater emotional range than anyone else in the show. As the opera opens, she’s a teenager. She dies twice; she loses her memory. “In the most mysterious aspect of the play, we see her grow up. She becomes fully herself only in death, as she remembers what love and life were.”

It’s a lot to ask of a singer. “She has to sound like everything: a young girl, a wounded lover, like someone who has dementia. Everyone else has one fewer dimension.”

Another striking depiction in the show is Hades. In other productions, he’s given a stunningly low voice (his songs in Hadestown could be used to test your car speakers’ low end). In Eurydice, he sings in what Aucoin calls a “stratospherically high range.” Here, the ruler of the underworld is a little insane, somewhere between a petulant child and an extraterrestrial being interacting with humans. There’s a grandeur to Aucoin’s adaptation that’s uncommon among contemporary operas, many of which err on the side of minimalism. Despite that grandeur, it’s often intimate. The opportunity to pare the show back, to transform it from grand opera to a chamber piece, serves to reveal the intimacy that was always present. After the show’s Boston premiere, several audience members who’d seen it in its earlier incarnation told

Aucoin they thought nothing had been lost.

Syrewicze is proud to be bringing Eurydice to Opera Grand Rapids, something she sees as squarely within the organization’s mission. “Every genre has to evolve, to keep creating, or it’ll become obsolete,” she said. “Otherwise, once you’ve seen the popular shows, why keep going? We don’t want that to happen. We have to keep working.”

It’s rare for a company of Opera Grand Rapids’ size to feature acclaimed contemporary shows. In 2020, as the pandemic raged, the company pivoted to streaming, providing a way for audiences to see Scalia/Ginsburg. In 2020, the company staged Stinney’s world premiere, a show still viewable via PBS today.

In 2022, Aucoin served as a judge for the Vanderlaan Prize Competition. During his time here, he got to know Syrewicze and her team as well as the physical space; that last, he realized, would be perfect for a reduced-orchestral version of Eurydice.

“It scales fantastically,” said Syrewicze. “It’s so visual. When Hades emerges onstage, you just cannot not look at him. The way it’s composed is so interesting. It builds but not in a melodic way, in a percussive way, and then he inserts these beautiful moments. Opera is music, it’s acting, it’s the visual depiction of the story. It’s all those things. Eurydice is always surprising.” ■

EURYDICE

Opera Grand Rapids

1320 Fulton St., Grand Rapids Jan. 31-Feb. 1 operagr.org

JAN/FEB ARTSCalendar

Arts exhibitions and performances have returned in full swing to West Michigan. This season, there’s absolutely no shortage of concerts, symphonies, plays, musicals, ballet, visual arts and beyond. We have big Broadway shows, intimate and progressive plays, live performances with symphonies, dancers taking to the stage, and powerful art exhibitions. Here’s our guide to arts events for the month.

ACTORS THEATRE

160 Fountain St. NE, Grand Rapids actorstheatregrandrapids.org

ALABASTER,  Feb. 27-Mar. 8

AVENUE FOR THE ARTS avenueforthearts.co

MY AMERICAN DREAM, Opening Jan. 16

THE RED THREAD, Opening Feb. 20 THIRD THURSDAYS, Jan. 16 & Feb. 20

BROADWAY GRAND RAPIDS

122 Lyon St. NW, Grand Rapids broadwaygrandrapids.com

MOULIN ROUGE! THE MUSICAL,  Jan. 21-Feb. 2

FARMERS ALLEY THEATRE

KALAMAZOO

221 Farmers Alley, Kalamazoo  farmersalleytheatre.com

DIAL M FOR MURDER, Feb. 6-Feb. 16

FONTANA CHAMBER ARTS

359 Kalamazoo Mall Ste. 200, Kalamazoo fontanamusic.org

FRED HERSCH (PIANO) & ANAT COHEN (CLARINET),  Feb. 21

FRANKE CENTER FOR THE ARTS

214 E Mansion St., Marshall thefranke.org

IRISH PUB NIGHT, Jan. 11

MAIN STREET DUELING PIANOS, Jan. 25 ICE, WINE, BEER & BLUES, Jan. 31-Feb. 1

FRAUENTHAL CENTER

425 W. Western Ave., Muskegon frauenthal.org

JIMMIE HERROD,  Jan. 25

GILMORE THEATRE/ WMU THEATRE

1903 W. Michigan Ave., Kalamazoo  wmich.edu/theatre

ALL THE NATALIE PORTMANS, Jan .31-Feb. 16

TITANIC, Feb. 8-9

GRAND RAPIDS ART MUSEUM

101 Monroe Center, Grand Rapids artmuseumgr.org

LEE ALEXANDER MCQUEEN & ANN RAY: RENDEZ-VOUS, Through Jan. 12

BRICK BY BRICK: THE CREATIVE ART OF LEGO, Through April 27

KRISTINA SHEUFELT: FALLOW SEASON, Feb. 1-May 4

GRAND RAPIDS BALLET

341 Ellsworth Ave. SW, Grand Rapids  grballet.com

PETER PAN,  Feb. 21-23

GRAND RAPIDS CIVIC THEATRE

30 N. Division Ave., Grand Rapids  grct.org

THE 39 STEPS,  Jan. 17-Feb. 2

CAMP ROCK,  Feb. 28-Mar. 16

GRAND RAPIDS SYMPHONY

300 Ottawa Ave. NW Ste. 100, Grand Rapids  grsymphony.org

SAX AND THE CITY,  Jan. 10-11

COFFEE/AN EVENING WITH HAYDN,  Jan. 31

PICTURES AT AN EXHIBITION,  Feb. 7-8

SYMPHONY WITH SOUL: COMMON, Feb. 15

TCHAIKOVSKY’S VIOLIN CONCERTO,  Feb. 28-Mar. 1

HOLLAND CHORALE

hollandchorale.org

GOLDEN AGE SHOWTUNES, Jan. 19

FAVORITE OPERAS, Feb. 23

JEWISH THEATRE

GRAND RAPIDS

2727 Michigan NE, Grand Rapids  jtgr.org

ESTHER THE MUSICAL,  Jan. 30-Feb. 9

KALAMAZOO CIVIC THEATRE

329 S. Park St., Kalamazoo  kazoocivic.com

WELL, Jan. 17-26

CALIFORNIA SUITE, Feb. 21-Mar. 2

KALAMAZOO INSTITUTE OF ARTS

314 South Park St., Kalamazoo kiarts.org

POWERFUL FORCES: LEGENDS, RITUALS, AND WARRIORS IN EAST ASIAN ART, Through Jan. 19

KALAMAZOO SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

359 Kalamazoo Mall Ste. 100, Kalamazoo kalamazoosymphony.com

SYMPHONIC BEATS: CELEBRATING HIP HOP CULTURE, Feb. 7

CRAFT MUSIC: OPERA, Feb. 12

LOWELLARTS

223 W. Main St., Lowell lowellartsmi.org

ARTIST MARKET,  Through Jan. 11

MILLER AUDITORIUM

2200 Auditorium Dr, Kalamazoo millerauditorium.com

DISNEY’S THE LION KING,  Jan. 29-Feb. 9

MUSKEGON CIVIC THEATRE

425 W. Western Ave., Muskegon  muskegoncivictheatre.org

SILENT SKY,  Jan. 10-28

GODSPELL,  Feb. 7-22

MUSKEGON MUSEUM OF ART

296 W. Webster Ave., Muskegon  muskegonartmuseum.org

CHICAGO COLLECTS: JEWELRY IN PERSPECTIVE, Through Jan. 5

ART TALKS BACK, Jan. 1-Apr. 30

TRANSCENDING TRADITION: SELECTION OF WORKS FROM THE BENNETT COLLECTION OF WOMEN REALISTS, Feb. 6-May 11

OPERA GRAND RAPIDS

1320 E. Fulton St., Grand Rapids  operagr.org

EURYDICE, Jan. 31-Feb. 1

SAUGATUCK CENTER FOR THE ARTS

400 Culver St., Saugatuck sc4a.org

HEMPY KEYBOARD SERIES, Jan. 19-Mar. 9

WE HOPE YOU FAIL BETTER., Through May 16

ST. CECILIA MUSIC CENTER

24 Ransom Ave. NE, Grand Rapids  scmc-online.org

CÉCILE MCLORIN SALVANT,  Feb. 20

THE GILMORE

359 S. Kalamazoo Mall, Kalamazoo thegilmore.org

ALEXANDRE KANTOROW W/ KSO, Feb. 5

WELLSPRING/CORI TERRY & DANCERS

359 S. Kalamazoo Mall, Kalamazoo wellspringdance.org

KIA MOVEMENT IN THE MUSEUM, Jan. 16

16TH ANNUAL MIDWEST RAD FEST, Feb. 27-Mar. 2

WEST MICHIGAN SYMPHONY

360 W. Western Ave. Ste. 200, Muskegon  westmichigansymphony.org

LISA SUNG QUARTET - JAZZ, Jan. 10 MOZART & BEETHOVEN, Jan. 24

JON HOLDEN ENSEMBLE - CHAMBER, Jan. 25

IAN MAKSIN - CELLO, Feb. 14

TCHAIKOVSKY WINTER DREAMS, Feb. 28