RACHEL WHITEAKER
OUTDOOR ENVIRONMENTS GROUP INDY CUSTOM POOLS
DESIGN • BUILD • NURTURE • SWIM
100 W Main St. Suite 110. (Corner of Main St. and Veterans Way)
Happy Hour from 5pm to 6pm. Every day!
SCULPTED TO SOOTHE. The Menlo Park Sectional by American Leather pairs fluid curves with a minimalist design. Wrapped in plush ultra-suede and grounded by sleek stiletto legs, it offers lumbar support and timeless appeal in one seamless shape.
NOW
Hear ye, hear ye! From pickleball tournaments and the WNBA All-Stars, summer brews and weekends at the Brickyard, to Black Expo, great music and the Indiana State Fair next month, this summer has it all!
Brunch favorite Maple is reimagining the sweetest meal of the day in delightful ways.
The Simple Life is built on the belief that less is more, and after 15 years in business, Rachel Whiteaker is still transforming spaces with purpose, beauty, and a little breathing room.
Chateau Kitchens brings vision and craftsmanship together to create custom spaces as livable as they are luxurious.
Houseworks relishes modern living through bold silhouettes, soft textures and timeless design.
When summer is calling, a weekend at the lake is always the best way to answer.
Whether you're packing a picnic for the lawn or dancing in the street, these great outdoor concerts bring the rhythm, energy and local charm that make summer sing.
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Editor-in-Chief
EDUARDO PEÑA
Managing Editor
JUSTYNA PEÑA
Assistant Editor MATTHEW HUME
Writer SUSAN SALAZ
Photography SARA ACKERMANN JES NIJJER GABRIELLE NOËL
Digital Marketing Intern NINA GOVILA
Graphic Designer NICO PEÑA
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July 12
Mercantile 37 Mini Maker Market
Mercantile 37 mercantile37.com
Support young creativity at this charming outdoor market featuring artisans aged 5–18. From jewelry and art to woodcraft and snacks, each booth showcases the passion and entrepreneurship of Indiana’s next generation of creators. Enjoy shopping, food and music in a fun, family-friendly atmosphere.
July 12-15
Indiana Gold Cup Pickleball Tournament
The Dink House thedinkhouse.com
Pickleball’s rising popularity hits full swing during this two-day tournament at The Dink House. Featuring fierce competition and family fun, the Indiana Gold Cup series draws local and regional players for fast-paced doubles action. Spectators are welcome! Cheer on your favorites and learn the sport’s appeal.
July 10–20
Indiana Black Expo Summer Celebration
Downtown Indianapolis indianablackexpo.com
One of the largest cultural events in the Midwest, this 10-day celebration of Black excellence features concerts, health and wellness events, business and education expos and more. The IBE Summer Celebration spotlights legacy, empowerment and joy across generations and industries.
July 19
Summerfest 2025 – Craft Brew Festival
Victory Field drinkin.beer
Raise a glass at this iconic summer beer fest, featuring over 100 Indiana brews, plus ciders, canned cocktails and more. Held at Victory Field, the event includes lawn games, live DJs and plenty of shade to chill between sips. A mustattend for local beer lovers.
July 18–19
WNBA All-Star Weekend
Gainbridge Fieldhouse & Downtown Indianapolis wnba.com
The best in women’s basketball take over Indy for All-Star Weekend. Highlights include the All-Star Game, Fever Fest, player appearances, wellness events and fan-focused fun. It's a slam dunk celebration of athleticism, empowerment and entertainment.
July 25–27
Brickyard Weekend
Indianapolis Motor Speedway indianapolismotorspeedway.com
NASCAR meets Indy at this actionpacked weekend featuring the NASCAR Cup Series, Xfinity Series, and IndyCar’s return to the famed oval. From races to fan zones and live entertainment, Brickyard Weekend delivers high-octane excitement for motorsports fans of all ages.
August 1–17
Indiana State Fair
Indiana State Fairgrounds, Indianapolis indianastatefair.com
The annual Indiana State Fair kicks off August with deep-fried everything, 4-H exhibits, carnival rides, animal encounters, shopping, and a long list of themed days. It’s a beloved summer tradition celebrating Hoosier pride in agriculture, creativity and community spirit.
August 3
Brews on the Boulevard Midtown Plaza, Carmel carmelmidtownplaza.com
Sample regional craft beers in Carmel’s buzzing Midtown during this 21+ tasting event. With local breweries, food vendors and summer ambiance, it's the perfect way to sip your way through a summer Sunday. Tickets include a commemorative glass and generous tastings.
August 7
Herb Alpert & The Tijuana Brass & Other Delights
The Palladium, Carmel thecenterpresents.org
Legendary trumpeter Herb Alpert returns with a vibrant, nostalgic performance celebrating 60 years of iconic hits. Expect a lively mix of jazz, pop and Latin rhythms in this special evening at the Palladium, paired with video montages and stories from Alpert’s extraordinary career.
By SuSaN Salaz | artwork
By eduardo Peña | PhotograPhy
By JeS NiJJer
Brunch favorite Maple is turning the page with a new name, a new location in McCordsville, and the same local love that’s made it a staple for decades. Here’s how they’re reimagining the sweetest meal of the day.
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After nearly 35 years as part of the Le Peep franchise, a beloved brunch spot has officially stepped into its own. Now known simply as Maple, the Indiana-based eatery is embracing a new era—rooted in local pride, elevated comfort, and all the warm, syrupy nostalgia the name implies.
“We’re so proud to introduce Maple to our Indiana community,” says owner Ali Hessaraki. “This rebrand was about creating something that felt personal, built by and for the people who’ve supported us for years. We’re still the same team, just with a fresh take on the brunch experience. Maple is our way of celebrating life’s sweetest moments, right here at home.”
The new name pays homage to Indiana’s rich history with maple syrup—at one time, the state led the nation in production. But beyond its culinary ties, Maple represents something deeper: connection, comfort, and slowing down to share a meaningful meal.
That philosophy carries through in everything they do, from the way guests are greeted at the door to the thoughtful way each dish is prepared. “We really believe brunch should feel joyful,” says Hessaraki. “From the way we greet you at the door to the way we craft our dishes from scratch, we try to make every detail feel like a little moment worth savoring.”
The menu is a mix of cozy classics and creative spins, with popular options like shakshuka, Monday Blues Pancakes, and the Sunrise Smash Burger. Summer brings seasonal specials and fresh, local ingredients—plus group-friendly spaces for celebrating everything from lazy Sundays to milestone moments. “We want every guest to feel at home, whether they’re regulars or visiting for the first time,” Hessaraki explains. “It’s about creating comfort through food, atmosphere and service.” And while the brand name may have changed, the commitment to excellent food and friendly service remains steadfast.
“It’s still your favorite brunch, just with a little more flavor and a lot more to offer,” he adds.
That fresh energy is especially evident in Maple’s newest location in McCordsville— the first to be designed and opened entirely under the new brand identity. “McCordsville is such a special community,” Hessaraki shares. “We were drawn to the area’s growth, but more importantly, its strong sense of connection. This new location is the first we’ve opened as Maple from day one, so it really reflects where we’re headed: open, bright, playful and designed for gathering.”
Maple’s following has steadily grown across Central Indiana, thanks to a vibe that feels equal parts stylish and sincere. With locations at the Indiana Design Center in Carmel, Castleton and beyond, it’s become a go-to for everything from pancakes with the kids, coffee with a colleague or brunch with friends. At Maple, life’s sweetest moments are always better shared.
To explore the menu, find a location near you, and follow along as the new McCordsville location prepares to open, visit mapleindy.com and follow @mapleindiana on Instagram.
WhiteakeR
By SuSaN Salaz | PhotograPhy By Gabrielle Noël | artwork By eduardo Peña
Rachel Whiteaker built The Simple Life on the belief that less is more — and after nearly 15 years in business, she’s helping more families than ever restore order through professional home organizing. With a new headquarters now open in Fishers, her all-female team transforms spaces with purpose, beauty and a little breathing room.
Step into The Simple Life’s headquarters in Fishers and you’ll find what founder Rachel Whiteaker calls “The Great Wall of Elfa”—a floor-to-ceiling stretch of Elfa shelves lined with bins of every shape, size and material, from sleek acrylic to handwoven rattan. It’s a visual ode to the tools of her trade, ready to corral everything from sippy cups to stilettos. The space marks a major milestone for Rachel and her business. What started as a one-woman operation out of Rachel’s home has grown into a thriving luxury organizing firm with a dedicated team and a client roster that spans the city’s most discerning households. Now, with a gorgeous and functional HQ all its own, The Simple Life is more poised than ever to help clients find clarity in their chaos.
For Rachel, the rewards of entrepreneurship go beyond pretty pantries and transformed garages. “It’s incredible to watch this grow into something that not only changes our clients’ lives, but also provides meaningful work for my team,” she says. “I get to empower other women, give them
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flexibility, and build something we’re all proud of.”
Long before she was organizing dream closets and coordinating full-home, concierge moves, Rachel was already turning chaos into calm—starting in her own bedroom. “I used to line up my Lip Smackers in color order,” she laughs. “Everything had to have a place.” That early love of order quickly expanded beyond her own space. At sleepovers, she’d end up tidying drawers instead of playing games, and by middle school, her friends’ parents were paying her to organize their kids’ rooms. “I didn’t think of it as a job—it was just something I genuinely loved doing.”
That natural instinct was matched by an intense competitive streak, sharpened during years of speed roller skating. “I grew up training hard. That drive to push myself, to do things faster and better—it’s still part of everything I do,” Rachel explains. After college, she worked in auditing and quality control—roles that honed her eye for detail but left her unfulfilled. “I was constantly telling people what they were doing wrong. It just wasn’t me,” she says. A role in pharmaceutical quality control followed, and she began organizing closets and playrooms, slowly turning her knack for order into a paid side gig. The structure of corporate life and Six Sigma-style efficiency laid the groundwork for the systems she’d one day bring into clients’ homes.
The turning point came with heartbreak: the stillbirth of her first child Jameson. “You realize what truly matters,” Rachel says quietly. “Stuff doesn’t make us happy.” Following the loss, she stepped away from her job to heal, but she eventually began pouring more of her energy into home
organization. In time, her family grew, as she welcomed two more sons, Harrison and Lincoln. A single LivingSocial promo catapulted the once-casual side hustle into a thriving operation. She spent preschool hours in client homes, refining systems and processes and building the backbone of the company when everyone else was in bed. Once the boys were both in school full time, she hired her first assistant, laying the foundation for the current team.
Today, The Simple Life is a full-service home organizing firm known for its white-glove approach to restoring order—especially during life’s most chaotic seasons. Whether it’s a growing family in need of a smarter mudroom or a cross-country move that requires complete unpacking and setup, Rachel and her team meet each project with a combination of empathy, efficiency and design-savvy precision.
Their signature offering is the Concierge Move, a start-to-finish service that includes decluttering, purposeful packing and managing movers, and then returning post-move to unpack, organize and label every drawer and cabinet. “You can go on vacation and come back to a home completely unpacked, fully stocked and even labeled,” Rachel says. “It’s the most magical experience we’ve ever been part of.”
The team also offers single-space organizing, seasonal refreshes through a VIP membership program, and custom installs using tried-and-true favorites like Elfa. They frequently partner with The Container Store and California Closets to design bespoke storage that’s as stunning as it is smart. “Our clients want magazine-
Rachel Whiteaker founded The Simple Life professional home organizing firm nearly 15 years ago. Today, her all-female team transforms the way busy families live—one perfectly labeled drawer at a time.
Inside The Simple Life’s new Fishers headquarters, founder Rachel Whiteaker has created a space that reflects her brand’s philosophy: calm, functional, and thoughtfully designed to support a growing team—and growing client demand.
worthy spaces that work just as hard behind the scenes,” Rachel notes, adding that function and luxury should always share the stage.
The Simple Life collaborates regularly with interior designers, custom builders and architects—ideally early in the process.
“We bring a layer of insight that others may often miss,” Rachel explains, adding that her team is trained to think in systems and function, always eyeing how backpacks can hang, where laundry baskets will land, and all the tiny details that make a home truly livable.
Now a mom to two young boys, Rachel has a deeper understanding of the demands her clients face, and she’s quick to remind them that disorganization isn’t a personal failure. “There’s nothing to be embarrassed about,” she says. “You’re not alone, and this is what we’re here for.”
With support from her husband, family and team, and a business that now runs on systems as strong as the ones they install, The Simple Life continues to meet overwhelmed families where they are—and guide them toward something better.
Right now, the crew is juggling garage and moving season—tackling full cleanouts, creating smart storage zones, and orchestrating coast-to-coast relocations that land clients in perfectly organized homes on day one. Holiday decorating, gift wrapping and year-end resets are also part of their seasonal offerings, designed to bring calm when life feels its busiest. Whatever the project, Rachel says, “our job is to clear the clutter so families can focus on what really matters.”
Ask any organizer on the team what keeps them motivated, and you’ll hear the same
thing: relationships. “We become part of the family—kids, spouses, even the dogs greet us at the door,” Rachel says with a smile. “Those connections are the true gift of this work.”
Rachel emphasizes that in the end, the results will be beautiful, but the process is a collaboration, and you have to be ready to do the work. “We’re not just putting things in pretty bins. You have to make decisions and let go of what no longer serves you,” she says. It’s not about perfection. It’s about building a home that supports your life—proof that sometimes, doing more starts with owning less.
For more information or to schedule a discovery call, visit thesimplelife.org and follow @thesimplelifeindy on Instagram for news, real-life before-and-afters, expert tips and endless organization inspiration.
• Set a 10-minute timer. Short bursts make the task feel doable—and give you a quick win.
• Start with one drawer. Focus on a small, complete zone before moving to the next.
• Edit before you shop. Don’t buy bins until you know what’s staying— containers can become clutter, too.
• Give everything a home. From lunchboxes to lightbulbs, assigning a place makes cleanup automatic.
• Call in reinforcements. For big jobs or major transitions, pros can save you time—and sanity.
By SuSan Salaz | artwork By Eduardo PEña
From chef-worthy kitchens to spa-inspired baths and luxe lower levels, Chateau Kitchens brings vision and craftsmanship together—creating custom spaces as livable as they are luxurious. Based in Carmel, this full-service design-build firm has spent the past two decades turning everyday rooms into bespoke showpieces. With in-house designers, project managers, and custom cabinetry craftsmen, Chateau delivers white-glove remodeling from first sketch to final styling. At the helm is second-generation owner Stephen Moore, whose dedication to quality extends beyond finishes. Known for nurturing a close-knit team and giving back to the community, his leadership is grounded in both craftsmanship and connection—values reflected in every home they touch.
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Lead Designer Jenny Collins
Designed for a family who craved warmth with a bold modern edge, this kitchen brings balanced drama and comfort. Sleek black cabinetry sets the tone, while natural wood accents, a quiet quartz backsplash, and glass-front doors keep the palette buoyant. Existing ventilation that threatened the sightline became a sculptural range hood—now the room’s signature detail. A large island, professional appliances, and oversized pendants turn the footprint into an entertainer’s command center, equally suited to weeknight homework or a crowd of friends. “We make it a priority to listen first—guiding clients with mood boards and 3-D renderings so they can watch their dream kitchen take shape without the stress,” Jenny says, underscoring Chateau Kitchens’ concierge-level process.
luxe eNtertaiNiNG baSemeNt, Lead Designer Holly Blevins, in collaboration with Brandy Ketterer Design
This transformation defies typical basement expectations. Tasked with creating a refined, multi-functional space for entertaining and unwinding, Holly and the team, working with Brandy Ketterer Design, delivered a layout and palette that feels more like a luxury hotel than a lower level. “Every remodel comes with its own set of challenges, and this basement was no exception,” Holly explains, adding that thoughtful lighting, reflective materials, and creative cabinetry allowed limitations to be turned into standout moments. At the center is a showstopping bar crafted from Chateau’s Signature Series custom cabinetry, with a waterfalledge quartz counter, mirrored backsplash, and brass shelving for a touch of glamour. Despite low ceilings and minimal daylight, the design reads bright, expansive, and intentional.
Once dated and dysfunctional, this primary bath is now a serene retreat grounded in elegance and utility. The homeowners wanted a space that felt restorative, yet elevated, so Cari began with the natural light and designed outward. “From the very beginning, we take time to get to know each homeowner—not just what’s not working, but how the space affects their everyday life,” Cari shares. That attention to function and feeling is what transformed this onceoutdated room into a highly personal sanctuary. Now, a chandelier, perfectly aligned with a large picture window, floats above a freestanding soaking tub. A calming pop of spa-inspired tile in the shower provides a fresh focal point, while slate-stained cabinetry adds tailored contrast and warmth. Understated luxury flows through every choice, from the heated floors to the clean-lined double vanities.
Explore the art of modern living with bold silhouettes, soft textures, and timeless design from your neighborhood furniture destination.
Houseworks 4905 E 82nd St. Indianapolis, IN 46250
By SuSaN Salaz
Five scenic getaways just a drive away.
When summer calls, there’s nothing like a weekend at the lake to answer. Whether you’re craving a boutique spa escape, a private island perch or a vineyard stay with a view, these luxe lake retreats blend the beauty of the water with indulgent amenities and upscale charm. Best of all? They’re all just a few hours from home.
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New Buffalo, Michigan — Lake Michigan harborgrand.com
Nestled just across the Indiana border in New Buffalo, Michigan, The Harbor Grand is a boutique lakefront hotel offering serenity with style. Think saltwater pools, fireside suites and spa services—all within walking distance of the marina and beach. Guests enjoy views of Lake Michigan from private balconies, and the onsite Terrace Room restaurant delivers intimate dining with waterfront ambiance. With coastal vibes, modern comforts and easy beach access, it’s a polished yet unpretentious escape perfect for couples or small groups looking to unwind by the waves.
Rome City, Indiana — Sylvan Lake hilltophaven-sylvanlake.com
For those who crave privacy with a view, Hilltop Haven delivers. This stunning 4,000-square-foot vacation home sits high above Sylvan Lake, with panoramic windows, vaulted ceilings and a sprawling deck for sunset-watching. Inside, guests enjoy a game room, cedar hot tub and three floors of luxurious living space. Outside, you’ll find a private dock, kayaks, and even access to a tiny private island. Ideal for families or groups, this retreat offers both seclusion and adventure—wrapped in stylish, lake-loving comfort.
Culver, Indiana — Lake Maxinkuckee innbtl.com
Charming, quiet, and design-forward, this boutique inn sits on the shores of Lake Maxinkuckee, Indiana’s second-largest natural lake. Each thoughtfully curated room offers a warm blend of comfort and style, with many featuring lake views or private patios. The inn is just a short walk to Culver’s local shops and dining, making it an easygoing but elevated spot to slow down and soak in lake life. With its blend of small-town charm and boutique hospitality, Inn by the Lake feels like your own private summer hideaway.
Lake Geneva, Wisconsin — Geneva Lake genevainn.com
Set on the sparkling shores of Geneva Lake, The Geneva Inn offers boutique elegance with front-row views of the water. Choose from chic, lake-facing rooms with private balconies, stroll the lakeside path, or sip cocktails on the fireside patio. Dinner at the on-site Oak & Oar pairs seasonal flavors with a panoramic view. With its intimate setting, walkable marina access and refined hospitality, it’s an ideal escape for anyone craving natural beauty and upscale relaxation.
Birdseye, Indiana — near Patoka Lake
This one-of-a-kind getaway offers a rustic-luxe stay inside converted grain silos on the grounds of a boutique winery. Each suite features two stories of unexpected luxury—king-size beds, cozy fireplaces, jacuzzi tubs—and a wine-lover’s view of the vineyard. While not directly on the water, the suites are just minutes from Patoka Lake’s marinas and hiking trails. As a bonus, the spa and dining at French Lick Resort are an easy drive away, making this stay the perfect pairing of lakeside adventure and indulgent escape.
By SuSaN Salaz
From symphony stars to blues legends and indie favorites, there’s no better way to savor the season than with live music under open skies. Whether you're packing a picnic for the lawn or dancing in the street, these outdoor concerts bring the rhythm, energy and local charm that make summer sing.
Symphony in the Park – July 9
Rock the Ruins, Holliday Park, Indianapolis rocktheruins.com
A beloved midsummer tradition, Symphony in the Park with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra offers a free evening of orchestral magic in a scenic natural setting. Enjoy lush pops arrangements, classical favorites and a blanket-friendly venue that draws music lovers of all ages.
Ruoff Music Center, Noblesville livenation.com
A summer staple in Noblesville, Dave Matthews Band brings two nights of jam-band magic to the amphitheater and lawn. With a passionate fanbase and an ever evolving setlist, it’s a must for music lovers who want to kick off concert season with epic energy.
In Concert with Nature, Eagle Creek Park, Indianapolis parks.indy.gov
On July 23, this Latin-jazz ensemble brings their vibrant, percussion-forward sound to the waterfront stage at Eagle Creek. Settle in with a picnic or take a sunset stroll as the music adds tropical flair to one of Indy’s most peaceful park venues.
Animals & All That Jazz, Indianapolis Zoo, Indianapolis indianapoliszoo.com
This Thursday night jazz series pairs smooth tunes with zoo admission for an unforgettable summer night. On July 24, catch the Gene Markiewicz Band beneath the pavilion. Grab a drink, stroll the grounds, and unwind to cool rhythms and warm evening air.
Cool Creek Concert Series, Cool Creek Park, Carmel hamiltoncounty.in.gov
This Pink Floyd tribute band delivers classic hits and psychedelic energy as part of the Friday night Cool Creek Concert Series. With adult tickets just $5 and kids free, it’s a local favorite for easy, affordable summer entertainment under the stars.
Nickel Plate District Amphitheater, Fishers npdamp.com
Known for their infectious energy and feel-good anthems, Michael Franti & Spearhead bring their “Welcome to the Family Tour” to Fishers for a night of uplifting live music. Expect a blend of reggae, hip hop and soul—plus plenty of crowd interaction and dancing under the stars.
Concerts on the Canal, Indiana Historical Society, Indianapolis indianahistory.org
Set along the downtown canal, this free outdoor concert features Groove Essentials, a high-energy band blending funk, R&B and dance classics. Enjoy the music from the shaded terrace or bring a chair for the grassy bank—perfect for a summer evening in the heart of Indy.
Symphony on the Prairie, Conner Prairie Amphitheatre, Fishers indianapolissymphony.org
Part of the ISO’s iconic outdoor series, this performance celebrates the Beatles with uncanny precision and nostalgia. Expect costume changes to represent every era and a crowd ready to sing along. Lawn seating encourages picnics and lounging with friends.
Carmel Gazebo Concert Series, Civic Square Gazebo, Carmel carmelgazeboconcerts.org
A fan favorite in the local music scene, The Woomblies Rock Orchestra brings a full string section and powerhouse vocals to their high-energy set of rock, soul and Motown classics. Catch them in Carmel as part of the free summer series—an evening guaranteed to get you on your feet.
Nickel Plate District Amphitheater, Fishers npdamp.com
Wrap up the season with this free, two-day festival on Labor Day weekend. Featuring a lineup of regional blues acts, great food and a lively crowd, Fishers Blues Fest is the perfect finale to a summer of music and good vibes.
