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For Family

Experience the Year Round Charm of Jim Thorpe, PA

by TheSpot January 11, 2025

written by TheSpot

Hey friends ! Looking for the perfect spot to escape, recharge, and make some beautiful memories? Let me tell you about Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania—a charming town tucked in the Pocono Mountains, filled with history, outdoor adventures, and cozy spots that’ll make you feel like you’ve stepped into a storybook. Whether you’re planning a winter getaway or a year-round adventure, Jim Thorpe has something magical to offer!

Why Winter in Jim Thorpe is Extra Special

Winter in Jim Thorpe is nothing short of a winter wonderland. Imagine the cozy charm of a Victorian town covered in a dusting of snow, with twinkling lights lining the streets, and a warm mug of hot chocolate waiting for you at every corner café. It’s the kind of place that feels like a holiday dream come true.

1. Outdoor Fun for the Whole Family and Friends
Whether you’re an adventurer or prefer a more laid-back vibe, Jim Thorpe has outdoor activities for every kind of traveler. The nearby Blue Mountain Resort offers skiing, snowboarding, and tubing—so you can hit the slopes with your friends or family. If skiing isn’t your thing, don’t worry! The Lehigh Gorge State Park offers beautiful winter hikes where you’ll be surrounded by snowy forests and river views. It’s peaceful, breathtaking, and a perfect way to embrace the winter chill.

2. Cozy Up in Charming Spots
After all that outdoor fun, you’ll need a cozy place to warm up. Jim Thorpe is full of quaint shops and cozy cafes that make the perfect places to relax and unwind. Head over to The Broadway Grille & Pub for some comfort food, or grab a warm drink at the Jim Thorpe Coffeehouse—the perfect stop to relax and let the kids sip their cocoa while you plan your next adventure. The town has that small-town charm that makes you feel right at home, no matter where you’re from!

But Wait—Jim Thorpe Isn’t Just for Winter!

As beautiful as it is during the colder months, Jim Thorpe is an amazing place to visit any time of year. Let me tell you why it should be on your radar for every season!

1. Historic Charm All Year Long
Walking through Jim Thorpe feels like taking a step back in time. The town is often called “The Switzerland of America” because of its Victorian architecture, winding streets, and the scenic mountain views surrounding it. Visit the Old Jail Museum or the Asa Packer Mansion to learn about the town’s rich history. It’s a perfect educational stop for families looking to add a bit of history to their vacation. And the best part? It’s all walkable—perfect for exploring at your own pace.

2. Thrilling Outdoor Adventures
Don’t let the winter weather fool you—there’s always something to do outdoors in Jim Thorpe. In the warmer months, the Lehigh River is perfect for rafting and kayaking, and if you’re into cycling, the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway offers stunning views and an unforgettable experience. Whether you want to explore by bike, foot, or boat, Jim Thorpe will give you a front-row seat to some of the most picturesque views you’ll ever see.

3. Festivals and Fun Events
Throughout the year, Jim Thorpe hosts a variety of events and festivals that will keep you coming back. From the Jim Thorpe Arts Festival in the spring to Halloween parades in the fall, there’s always something going on in this lively town. If you visit during the summer, don’t miss out on the Jim Thorpe Spring Festival where local artisans, food vendors, and musicians gather to bring this small town to life.

The Best Part? It’s a Place to Connect

Whether you’re taking a family road trip, escaping with a group of friends, or looking for a solo adventure, Jim Thorpe offers the perfect blend of relaxation and excitement. It’s a place where you can breathe in the fresh mountain air, connect with nature, and bond with those you love most. It’s easy to get to, simple to navigate, and a destination that feels like a home away from home. Plus, with its vibrant mix of history, shopping, dining, and outdoor fun, it’s a place everyone will enjoy—no matter what time of year you visit!

Ready for Your Next Adventure?

Whether you’re planning a winter trip filled with snowflakes and hot cocoa or a year-round escape to explore the historic streets and breathtaking outdoors, Jim Thorpe, PA is calling your name! Pack your bags, grab your family or friends, and get ready for a trip you’ll never forget.

What are you waiting for? The adventure of a lifetime awaits in Jim Thorpe—where memories are made, year-round!

Ready to explore? Start planning your trip to Jim Thorpe today—whether it’s this winter or any time of year. Trust me, you’ll fall in love with this charming town, and you won’t want to leave!

January 11, 2025

For Her Inspiration

The Power of Rituals: Unlock The Benefits to Well Being

by TheSpot January 1, 2025

written by TheSpot

At the beginning of this year, one of my resolutions was to delve deeper into self-improvement literature. I’ve had books like *Atomic Habits* and *How to Talk to Anyone* prominently on my reading list. Recently, while running errands at Target for essentials like hand soap and cotton balls, I allowed myself to meander through the book section for about half an hour. I felt an urgent need to buy a book right then and there, fearing that if I didn’t, the intention would slip away from me soon after. As I wandered back and forth, one title stood out: *The Elevation Approach* by Tina Wells. After picking it up, reading the summary, and putting it back down multiple times, I decided to purchase it. Although Tina Wells was unfamiliar to me, something about the book resonated—especially its focus on creativity. I’ve come to realize that the power of rituals is key to unlocking benefits to well-being.

I’ve been striving to carve out dedicated blocks of time to tackle specific tasks in my daily routine. More often than not, though, these plans get derailed. My mornings typically involve a frantic rush: making lunch for my 9 to 5 job, selecting an outfit that suits me, juggling multiple bags (laptop, lunch, and daily necessities), and enduring a grueling 45-minute commute. It’s a scenario that many can relate to. One chapter in *The Elevation Approach* particularly chapter captivated me—a discussion on rituals. Intrigued, I delved into the concept, seeking a deeper understanding of why rituals are important and why we practice them. I turned to Google for clarity and found an applicable definition: “(of an action) arising from convention or habit.”

Rituals are an intrinsic part of both human and animal behavior, as highlighted by scientific research. They establish patterns of behavior, express belief systems, foster social bonds, and even serve as a means to alleviate stress. The latter definitely caught my attention. Confession time: my rituals aren’t very organized. Yet, there is one that I cherish for its soul-soothing properties. I tend to wake up early, usually between 4 am and 5 am, with a surprising burst of energy. Despite my nightly aspirations of accomplishing numerous tasks—from meal prepping to laundry and tackling unfinished projects—reality often falls short. By 7 pm, I’m catching up on TV shows; by 8 pm, I might manage one chore; by 9 pm, I’m ready for bed.

Developing better habits is still a work in progress for me. So, what constitutes my sacred time? Those quiet early morning hours where my thoughts flow most freely. Wrapped in my favorite Victoria’s Secret plush robe, I retrieve my espresso machine and carefully prepare my coffee, pouring it into one of my cherished espresso cups—each with its own story, either gifted by relatives or collected during travels. I sit in the dark, my only illumination the gentle glow of the holiday tree, and slowly sip my espresso. In these moments of tranquility, my imagination wanders to far-off places, and I contemplate my future self. This sanctuary of early morning solitude fuels my daydreams and aspirations, offering me a glimpse of the person I hope to become.

It’s a new year. Developing new rituals is a good start to become a better version of yourself. Drink coffee or tea out of your favorite cup, journal, get on the exercise bike, or do stretches. There are no rules. Start off slow if you need to. Do carve out time just for you. It can be five minutes or fifty minutes or whatever works for you. The point is not to burn yourself out with another item on your to do list, but rather give yourself the gift of being your most authentic self-unapologetically.

January 1, 2025

Eat For Family Inspiration Uncategorized

EASY FAMILY HOLIDAY BAKING RECIPES TO START A NEW TRADITION

by TheSpot December 14, 2024

written by TheSpot

By Ella Colarossi

There’s no better scent during the holiday season than the smell of fresh-baked cookies wafting
through the air when you come home. My family takes it a step further, baking enough cookies
to feed a small army. My name is Ella Colarossi, and one of my favorite holiday traditions is our
family’s cookie-baking marathon. Each year, we make over 15 different types of cookies, from
cherished family recipes to new finds that quickly become traditions of their own. This isn’t just a
baking session—it’s a full family affair that has been a part of my life for as long as I can
remember.
The main bakers are my mom, grandma, two sisters, and me. My dad and brother are the
official taste testers, though we don’t trust them with the baking (they’d probably burn the
cookies if we let them try!). We crank up the Christmas carols and bake all day long. But cookie
baking isn’t just a one-day event for us—it’s a season-long tradition that begins in
mid-November and stretches all the way through to Christmas Eve. We even have a second
freezer dedicated solely to cookie storage.
This tradition was started by my dad’s mother, my Nana. She was the best baker I knew, always
with an endless supply of cookies when we visited her. Though she has passed, her
cookie-baking legacy lives on. We use her recipes every year. We give cookies as gifts, creating
homemade plates for friends and family. While everyone has their favorites, the most requested
are our molasses cookies, ooey gooey cookies, and lemon cookies. Some of these recipes are
family secrets, passed down through generations, while others have been collected over the
years from various sources. But no matter where they come from, they’ve all become an integral
part of our family tradition.

“Lemony Slice-and-Bakes”
Makes: About 50 Cookies
2 1⁄2 cups all-purpose flour
1⁄2 tsp. kosher salt
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temp
3/4 cup sugar
2 tbsp. finely grates lemon zest
1 tsp. vanilla extract
4 large egg yolks
Icing:
1 1/4 cups powdered sugar
2 tbsp. fresh lemon juice
sanding sugar
Whisk flour and salt in a medium bowl, set aside. On medium-high speed, beat butter, sugar,
lemon zest, and vanilla until light and fluffy (about 3 mins). Add egg yolks; beat just to blend.
Reduce speed to low; add flour mixture and beat, just to blend. Divide dough in half; roll each
half into a 10″ – long log about 1 3/4″ in diameter. Wrap in plastic and chill until firm, about 1
hour. Keep Chilled. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Cut each log into 1/4″ thick rounds and bake

on parchment lined baking sheets. Bake until cookies are firm and golden brown around edges,
about 16-18 mins. Let cool for one minute before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Drizzle with icing and dust with sanding sugar.

“Chocolate Ooey Gooey Cookies”
Makes: 2 Dozen
1 (8-ounce) brick cream cheese, room temperature
1 stick butter, room temperature
1 egg90op[=[-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 (18-ounce) box moist chocolate cake mix Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a large bowl with an electric mixer, cream the cream cheese
and butter until smooth. Beat in the egg. Then beat in the vanilla extract. Beat in the cake mix.
Cover and refrigerate for 2 hours to firm up so that you can roll the batter into balls. Roll the
chilled batter into tablespoon sized balls and then roll them in confectioner’s sugar. Place on an
ungreased cookie sheet, 2 inches apart. Bake 12 minutes. The cookies will remain soft and
“gooey.” Cool completely and sprinkle with more confectioners’ sugar, if desired.

“Mammy’s Molasses Tung Cookies”
Makes: 5-6 Dozen
1 cup butter
1/2 cup Crisco
1⁄2 cup mild baking molasses
2 eggs (beaten)
2 cups sugar
2 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. cloves
1 tsp. ginger
4 tsp. baking soda 5 cups flour
1 tsp. salt
Directions:
Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Cream sugar with butter and Crisco. Add eggs and molasses. Mix
dry ingredients together and add gradually to the creamed mixture. Make finger like rolls and roll
in sugar. Bake for 10 minutes on ungreased cookie sheets.

December 14, 2024

For Family For Her Inspiration Uncategorized

Our Small Business Feature That Makes Gift Giving Joyful!

by TheSpot November 30, 2024

written by TheSpot

The autumn season is well underway and it’s a time of transition in many ways. The leaves turn colors, preparing for end of year finances, budgeting for the holidays, and overall reflecting on our past and future goals.

Black Friday and Cyber Monday campaigns descend in blitz mode especially here in the U.S. almost as a nature calling of the impending holiday season. Small Business Saturday has carved out its own little niche as a gentle reminder that sometimes less is more. More and more, we are recognizing the importance of shopping small as a show of support but also adding meaning to well intentioned thought and effort of gift giving. What do we mean by that? Well connecting is part of the human experience. Connecting with our neighbors, our community, and family makes us feel good, right? At least it’s supposed to. When we practice uplifting the important people in our lives, we uplift ourselves.

The past few years, The Spot Magazine has met many business owners that are creating livelihoods to provide everyday experiences. By creating experiences, they are creating joy not only for themselves but for others. That’s why we put together a list of small business owners who are creating this type of joy that is unique and special. More importantly, they are part of our beloved community working hard to bring all of those qualities to you.

Field and Flock Lavender Farm

We visited Field and Flock Lavender Farm in Woodstown, NJ and we instantly fell in love with the farm. Lavender season is on full display during the months of July and August but owners, George and Kimberly, work year round providing high quality lavender products. Products are sold right in their farm location but it is a worthwhile experience to pick up hand crafted gifts surely delighting recipients…or yourself for that matter. My personal favorites are the luxurious body cream and cocoa powder! https://thespotmagazine.com/?s=field+and+flock

Care Package Bakes

Care Package Bakes was founded by home baker, Elisa Ludwig. We visited her home and received a warm welcome. An author and writer, Elisa created a unique concept by transforming her passion for baking into a small batch baking business. Her assorted baked treats are the perfect bite size melt in your mouth bits of heaven. What is especially unique is that Elisa incorporates seasonal ingredients and combinations of flavors that compliment the season or simply create something entirely new. No matter what you choose out of the box, your senses will surely thank you. https://thespotmagazine.com/?s=care+package

Morning Glori Farmette

The Spot Magazine visited the farm and we met Angela who shared a little of her story on how she and husband Brian, began the farm. She now has a growing brood and the farm enjoys many activities and events for kids and adults alike. Why not sponsor an alpaca? Cuties like Willow, Hershey, and Maribelle will steal your heart but you’ll never be too far away. You can find so many personalized gifts in stuffed animals, mittens, scarves, hats and so much more. Items made from the very best alpaca wool are sustainable and support not only the farm but the surrounding community. A must add on your checklist! https://thespotmagazine.com/?s=morning+gl

Multi Media Audio

We met and spoke to Megan Negron Dalton, co-owner, of audio engineering company, Multi Media Audio. We loved featuring Megan and how she is breaking barriers in the audio space. Why this would make this a great gift? One of the features of Multi Media Audio,in addition to providing audio engineering services for music and film, is that they are heavily involved in all forms of audio content. Want to start a podcast? Megan has you covered. Do you want to uplevel your content creation? Multi Media Audio can certainly help you out with that. If we have a loved one who is trying to break in the biz, sometimes a little extra help can go a long way. A session or consultation is a great gift for helping a loved one get one step closer to realizing their dreams. https://thespotmagazine.com/?s=multi+media

Adore Redecor

Jennifer Armstrong has a passion for upcycling antique furniture. So much so that when she left the corporate world, Jennifer turned her hobby into a local enterprise. You can find Jennifer on Instagram under Adore Redecor. What we love about Jennifer is that she offers a unique service in refinishing and upcycling quality furniture, but offers an array of inside knowledge and tips on antique shopping and DIY projects. All you have to do is look around and rather than throwing out good quality furniture or dinnerware passed down from previous generations, give those prized possessions new life. Jennifer can help you do that or give valuable insight about vintage shopping for one of a kind gifts that have history and a story to tell. https://thespotmagazine.com/?s=adore+redecor

Botanically Blurred

Have you ever thought of having your own house or commercial plant stylist? We found one in Alexa Fornicola. Alexa is founder of Botanically Blurred, a commercial and residential plant design and maintenance company. Alexa’s super power is taking in several factors such as your space, lifestyle, and personality to combine these ingredients and voilá! Sounds simple but Alexa has a gift in curating your space into an oasis that is an extension of you. You and your own unique beautiful self. Looking for a sentimental housewarming gift? Give the gift of plants and an actual designer to come with it! https://thespotmagazine.com/?s=botanically+blurred

Regardless of how and where you shop, if you take a moment and see all the wonderful small businesses around you, there is nothing like picking up a gift that gives a sense of comfort, warmth, friendship, or love like giving something that is unique, memorable, and a story that is uniquely and lovable you.

November 30, 2024

For Family For Her Inspiration

Experience the Holiday Magic of Longwood Gardens: A New Chapter with Longwood Reimagined

by TheSpot November 13, 2024

written by TheSpot

From Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day, Longwood Gardens transforms into a breathtaking winter wonderland, a sight that continues to captivate visitors year after year. Pierre S. duPont, whose deep love for the Brandywine Valley and horticulture led to the creation of this stunning garden, has left behind a legacy that draws families, nature lovers, and curious visitors alike to explore its beauty, year-round.

Each holiday season, Longwood Gardens becomes an enchanting holiday destination, but it’s not just the twinkling lights that make it special—it’s the perfect blend of nature’s splendor and holiday decor. This year, there’s even more to marvel at with the debut of *Longwood Reimagined*, a transformative new experience that promises to delight visitors in fresh, exciting ways.

Introducing Longwood Reimagined: A New Vision for the Holidays

Longwood Reimagined is three years in the making, and it’s set to be the centerpiece of this year’s holiday celebrations. The revamped gardens, landscape art, and new glasshouses offer a modern take on Longwood’s timeless beauty. From awe-inspiring new plantings to innovative displays, the reimagined gardens are sure to take your breath away—and that’s before you even reach the dazzling holiday light displays that have become a staple of the season.

With its combination of nature and artistry, Longwood Gardens is more than just a place to visit; it’s a place to immerse yourself in beauty and creativity. Whether you’re wandering through the illuminated paths, taking in the sparkling lights against the backdrop of centuries-old trees, or exploring the new features of *Longwood Reimagined*, every corner offers something new to discover.

A Tradition Worth Experiencing

For generations, families have made Longwood Gardens a holiday tradition, returning year after year to experience the seasonal magic. Whether you’re there for the first time or a longtime visitor, the atmosphere is one of wonder. It’s a place where you can create lasting memories—whether you’re sipping hot cocoa while gazing at the lights, learning about gardening in one of their seasonal workshops, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature.

Beyond the Holidays: A Year-Round Destination

Longwood Gardens isn’t just a holiday destination—it’s a year-round cultural treasure. The gardens offer an array of educational classes and workshops throughout the year, making it the perfect spot for gardening enthusiasts, artists, and nature lovers alike. You can cultivate your skills in everything from floral design to landscape painting, or simply take in the seasonal changes in the gardens.

Plan Your Visit

Longwood Gardens is now open for the holiday season starting November 22nd, and timed tickets are available through their website. Whether you’re visiting for the holiday lights or experiencing the newly reimagined gardens, this is one event you won’t want to miss.

So, mark your calendars, gather your loved ones, and get ready to experience the holiday magic of Longwood Gardens. With new features and timeless beauty, it’s a place that will continue to inspire for generations to come.

—

November 13, 2024

For Her

The Reading Nook

by TheSpot November 7, 2024

written by TheSpot

Are you feeling bookish? Well The Spot Magazine loves hearing about new books. Guess what? As a new feature, we’ll be featuring monthly book picks and why they inspire us. Got a suggestion? We’d love to hear it! Don’t be shy, send us your book suggestion and we may just feature it! Let’s build and uplift our little community. Hey, why not even start our own little book club 😉

November Book of the Month- Tell Me Everything by Elizabeth Strout

Characters and relationships intertwine in this story of mystery, families, and friendship. The magic of the book illustrates how ultimately relationships with various characters in our own lives, add color and depth.

November 7, 2024

For Family For Her Uncategorized

The Guild House Hotel: A Luxury Boutique Hotel

by TheSpot October 23, 2024

written by TheSpot

Two questions often presented to me are should we see the Liberty Bell and where to find the best cheesesteaks. I always answer yes to the first and I usually share my personal favorites with the second. Where to stay however can require some thought. Visitors and locals often do not associate the City of Brotherly Love with significant roles of historical influential women. The Spot recently visited The Guild House Hotel, a luxurious boutique property centered in the heart of Philadelphia. One of the distinctive features of the property is that it was once home to the New Century Guild and has since evolved into contemporary elegance.

Located at 13th and Locust Streets, we were greeted by Alex, the Director of Hotel Operations, at our arrival. She guided us throughout the property and shared its history. The establishment is a National Historic Landmark and was once a private home to the New Century Guild during the 19th century. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_Century_Guild

Alex passionately detailed the Guild’s background and introduced us to its founder, Eliza Sproat Turner, a suffragette, abolitionist, and author. This residence served as a gathering place for women, allowing them to meet in public without needing permission from their husbands. Even after living in the city my entire life, I was captivated by the stories of these remarkable women and their achievements.

One of the more enjoyable aspects of the hotel is The Lounge, where members of the Guild would gather to discuss ideas, read, or enjoy tea and coffee. This unique hotel reveals the untold stories of these women. While I looked around, I was reminded of the HBO show The Gilded Age, which portrays women asserting themselves and sharing new ideas. The decor creates a welcoming atmosphere filled with books, vintage phones, typewriters, and comfortable furniture. There is an instant vibe that inspires conversation, activism, and expression. It’s readily apparent, The Lounge is just as an important focal point today as it was in the early days.

The hotel resembles a residential row home and underwent a three-year renovation by ROHE Creative, a woman-owned interior design firm based in Philadelphia. https://www.rohecreative.com. Each of the twelve rooms is named after a member of the New Century Guild, featuring elegant and refined decor fostering emotional connections and positive memories. This setup also serves to educate visitors about the lasting influence of these women.

We found The Guild Hotel charming and delightful. Conveniently situated near popular attractions like The Reading Terminal Market, Independence Mall, and Rittenhouse Square, the hotel is easily accessible for tourists and locals alike. Philly is a walkable city therefore any of these main attractions are reachable in minutes. Additionally, Philadelphia is bike friendly. Bike lanes are increasingly part of the transportation outlook and safe for recreation and family-friendly activities.

A visit to the Guild House Hotel is valuable for anyone, making it an ideal location for special events, overnight stays, or cityscapes. The real fun is exploring all the diverse cafes and restaurants from around the globe nearby. Lastly, as we walk through the hallways of the hotel and look around at the names of the members, it serves as a gentle reminder to immerse ourselves in the present moment. You can learn about planning your perfect cityscape here http://guildhousehotel.com.

And if you missed our recent article on how to embrace French and European culture, check it out! Don’t forget to subscribe to our email newsletter for all the latest happenings in the Greater Philadelphia region !

From Paris to Philadelphia: A Day of French Culture in the City of Brotherly Love

October 23, 2024

For Family For Her Health Uncategorized

Meet The Local Artist Inspiring Connection in the Community

by TheSpot October 7, 2024

written by TheSpot

Many of us possess cherished mementos, particularly those related to our children and pets. In the current digital age, we accumulate tens of thousands of photographs on our devices, yet we seldom revisit them. As we scroll through our electronic galleries, we may pause to appreciate one or two of our favorite images. However, aside from downloading these photos, what meaningful actions do we take? We tend to retain them until they eventually transition to the cloud. Imagine if we introduced you to a local artist who specializes in creating paintings of your beloved pets or capturing scenes and landscapes that hold special significance for you. Meet Ivy Egger, the local artist inspiring connection in the community.

Ivy Egger, an artist based in Downingtown, Pennsylvania, specializes in glass art and operates her own studio, Vine Designs Art. Although Ivy has quite a few specialties in the world of art, nature serves as her primary source of inspiration. Additionally, Ivy fulfills special requests, which have proven to be one of her most fulfilling skills. Among her most sought-after commissions are artistic representations of clients’ pets. When inquired about her journey as an artist, Ivy shared that her fascination with art began in her childhood. She nurtured this interest by enrolling in art classes during high school and subsequently majoring in art in college.

Ivy took a hiatus from her artistic career following the birth of her son. However, during the pandemic, she reignited her passion for art by enrolling in a mosaic class. She noted that despite her extensive experience as an artist, this was her first encounter with this specific craft. As Ivy delved into this new medium, her creativity began to flourish in various directions. For instance, she started designing jewelry that incorporates mosaic elements made from resin. When we inquired how nature specifically serves as an inspiration for her artwork, Ivy shared that she is particularly moved by the beauty of flowers and waterfalls during her creative process. Among these, she identified sunflowers as her favorite subject, explaining that their tall stature and vibrant colors resonate deeply with her.

Art is inherently subjective in numerous respects. We sought to understand the type of satisfaction Ivy derives when a client receives their commissioned artwork. Ivy asserts that there is no greater appreciation than witnessing the expression in a client’s eyes. She ensures that her clients are informed about the progress of their pieces; however, the moment they view her work in person elicits an indescribable reaction that fills Ivy with immense pride.

Ivy took part in a prominent art exhibition known as the Chester County Tour, which occurs annually in May. She was fortunate to be involved for two consecutive years. Between her studio and exhibit shows, Ivy is more active than ever before. In fact, she was recently profiled on 6ABC about her work and life. https://6abc.com/post/mosaic-artist-perseveres-challenges-art-showcases-work-swarthmore-borough-hall/15232817/

The life of an artist can be rewarding and challenging at the same time. Ivy has had to navigate through a few in her own life. Despite any obstacles, we were curious to inquire that if she were to give advice to upcoming creatives, what would that be? Ivy emphasized the importance of selecting a medium that allows for skill development, stating that “marketing is everything.” Now that’s advice that we can all abide by. More information can be found here www.vinedesignsart.com.

October 7, 2024

Uncategorized

From Paris to Philadelphia: A Day of French Culture in the City of Brotherly Love

by TheSpot September 17, 2024

written by TheSpot

Despite the fact that the Olympics are over, who can forget some of the memorable moments?
The most decorated Olympian in American history, Simone Biles; Lady Gaga in a Parisian Betty Boop costume; and, most of all, the legendary return of Celine Dion in a performance that will live for the ages. There aren’t many sites that can compare to Paris’s twinkling lights but maybe some might bring back memories. https://olympics.com/en/paris-2024 Memories such as warm croissants, a romantic stroll in the park, or world-class artwork . As a self-confessed fan of Emily in Paris https://www.netflix.com/title/81037371 , I was eager to explore the Paris and Philly connection. I spent a day in the City of Brotherly Love for a day of French culture.

We want to revisit certain inspirations to give you that “mangez bien, risez souvent, aimez beaucoup” sensation if we can’t be in Paris to experience the joie de vivre. Put another way, enjoy good food, lots of laughter, and lots of love while in Philadelphia. A location that holds a particular significance is the Rodin Museum. I made the decision to go on a short trip and spend the day in French fashion.

My first stop before that was the Sofi Corner Cafe. A light-filled, spacious French Moroccan cafe with large open windows contributed to the feeling of a Mediterranean retreat. There are art deco posters, bright yellow walls and cushions, and a small patio to enjoy a laissez-faire afternoon for that extra St. Tropez flair. The menu during the early afternoon included a chicken b’stilla and a mocha coffee. I got the impression from the front window’s ample assortment of French candies and sweets that you might not find them elsewhere in the world.

A picture-perfect backdrop supplied by the Rodin Museum on Benjamin Franklin Parkway lends a gateway its’ spectacular indoor beauty. There is a large, open courtyard with a few little tables and seats beyond the gate known as The Garden. Particularly on a day with lovely weather, it is worthwhile to relax, sit, read a book, or spread out a picnic blanket. One of the benefits of visiting the museum is that you can pay what you want or a suggested amount. Moreover, entry to the Rodin is complimentary with the purchase of a Philadelphia Museum of Art ticket. Every chamber is lined with magnificent sculptures that capture texture and detail, such as versions of The Thinker, The Kiss, and Two Hands, among many more.

I didn’t have the intention of flying out to indulge in croissants and macarons, but I did found a tiny spot with the ideal ambiance. The spacious and open J’aime French Bakery located on 12th Street in Center City features wide open windows. It was there that I relished a café au lait and a chocolate croissant. It was the ideal way to recharge after a day of touring, discovering Rodin, and being motivated to attempt new things.

While I was seated observing others, I spotted visitors, individuals working on the side of the road, and corporate professionals rushing around, reflecting on my own experiences of relaxing in cafes across foreign cities. All with similar atmospheres and ambiance. My own city transformed my perspective. I let myself immerse in the buzz, the mood, and the tranquility. I behaved as though I was in Paris. I envisioned the cars revolving around the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, gazing at The Thinker, witnessing beautiful kids on picnic mats, and savoring each moment of sipping coffee in a cafe. Emily in Paris finds her Parisienne adventure and I was happy savoring the mine. https://rodinmuseum.org

September 17, 2024

For Her Uncategorized

Woman Owned Business Spotlight. Meet Megan Negron-Dalton: An Entrepreneur Who Is Challenging the Status Quo in the Audio Space

by TheSpot August 14, 2024

written by TheSpot

Welcome to the first of our series: Woman Owned Business Spotlight. At first sight, Megan Negron-Dalton appears full of youthful energy and can easily be perceived as a college student. However, it’s quite surprising to think that she is not only an audio engineer and business owner but also competes in a dynamic industry. We explore Megan’s professional background, and it turns out to be quite an impressive list of achievements. After our initial encounter with Megan, it’s clear that she is not only a successful entrepreneur but also a trailblazer in the field of innovative audio engineering, setting new benchmarks for industry norms. Her expertise spans all types of audio required for various media. While this is a wide-ranging term, Megan narrows it down to her focus on commercial mixing. This includes work on video sound, podcasting, and creating music. Megan’s team consists of both audio engineers and musicians. She mentions that podcasting is rapidly growing in the audio industry and she enjoys the process. Megan observes that podcasters are increasingly taking control of their platforms through advertising, and she and her team help in promoting their clients’ businesses. Furthermore, they handle press releases for new music releases.

As our discussion deepened, we were intrigued by Megan’s journey into the realm of audio engineering. We noted that it’s not a domain typically favored by young women. Megan shared that her musical journey began early, sparking a keen interest in the intricate aspects of audio engineering. She began her career through internships and engaged in conversations with other audio engineers to learn more about the industry. Megan and her boyfriend and partner, Michael D’Angelo, decided to venture into entrepreneurship, launching their own company. She cleverly chose the name Multi Media Audio, recognizing the shift towards a content-driven society and their readiness to tackle audio projects across various media platforms. As a woman, entrepreneur, musician, and audio engineer, we set out to discover more on how she is challenging the status quo.

Megan doesn’t focus much on the gender balance, but she recognizes that sometimes, when projects come up, she might not be selected first because people are often unfamiliar with seeing women’s skills in the audio industry firsthand. Nonetheless, Megan fully embraces her abilities, which she thinks are what ultimately earn her clients’ trust. Megan feels confident in her ability to connect with clients through her genuine care and honesty. She constantly hones her skills by reading, studying, and exploring new techniques. She’s prepared to tackle any question a client might have, ready to provide a thorough answer. She jokingly admits that occasionally, clients might be pleasantly surprised by her knowledge and expertise.

Furthermore, Megan recognizes a clear move away from the “hustle culture.” She points out that being kind plays a significant role in fostering positive interactions with her clients to reach a common goal. She also notices that the business environment is moving in the same direction, with signs indicating a decrease in pace. As a musician, Megan possesses empathy and insight into the potential obstacles clients might face, and she thinks kindness is a powerful tool in building strong connections in the workplace.

How does Megan stay driven when faced with the temptation to quit or simply not feel like it? Deep down, Megan is certain that this is her true calling. She’s deeply passionate about her career and also finds solace in her music. She plays various instruments and has been reviving old compositions she wrote years ago. Megan also appreciates the importance of balance. She knows that if she needs a break to recharge, she can step away from a project and return to it later. Her musical talent and dedication have led her to submit her song “Bruised Peach” to a contest for Rolling Stone Magazine’s America’s Next Top Hit Maker. This contest is unique because it supports Music Cares, an organization that helps millions of musicians with health and welfare support. This cause is very close to Megan’s heart as a musician. If she wins, she’ll receive the top cash prize. Megan intends to use the money to further her business and create the studio of her dreams and further expand assisting other creatives in the audio space.

Megan is living her ideal life, even without winning any competitions. She frequently attends local workshops and networking gatherings to continuously expand her knowledge and build relationships. Megan is among the numerous emerging business leaders who are breaking traditional barriers. Her journey serves as a motivation that it’s possible to remain true to yourself while putting in the effort. She’s developing her skills as a sound engineer and pursues her love for producing exquisite music. We’re eagerly awaiting more outstanding projects from Multi Media Audio. To follow her journey, learn more here https://www.multimedia-audio.com/home

For our other inspiring stories don’t forget to check out some of our stories of women transforming work and life balance! And don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter here! https://thespotmagazine.com/contact-information/

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August 14, 2024

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