A MODERN CLASSIC
STEPHEN MOORE
Happy Hour 5pm to 6pm.
More than restaurants, we have created spaces.
Spaces where people gather, celebrate, and create lasting memories.
Arechiga Group is the result of shared e ort, a passion for hospitality, and the support of a community that has grown alongside us. LET'S CONTINUE CREATING MOMENTS TOGETHER.
STEPHEN MOORE
THE ABSOLUTE AGENDA
As we mark America’s 250th birthday, celebrate Hoosier culture, too! From Indiana Black Expo, 4-H fairs and Gen Con to old-time caboose rides, classic music and beloved summer “beverage” fests, Central Indiana shines all summer long.
SEEN AND HEARD
In this Q&A, Dr. Rachel Murphy of Pismo Health DPC discusses the advantages of direct primary care for both patients and providers.
SUN SOAKED
From daily SPF essentials and skin-prepping formulas to sunlit scents and glow-ready body care, these new beauty releases offer a radiant refresh for the summer season.
CARE FOR YOUR HAIR
Korie Lance of The Mae Salon offers her best summer hair care advice for protecting your hair from the brutal heat and humidity of an Indiana summer.
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CITY CENTER SUMMER
22 26 32 34 SUBSCRIPTIONS For more information go to absolutelivingmagazine.com. To sign up for Absolute Living's monthly newsletter, go to absolutelivingmagazine.com/newsletter. COMMENTS Contact us via social media or email us at editorial@absolutelivingmagazine.com
The European-inspired setting of Carmel City Center has it all, and summer might just be the best time to discover what it has in store for you!
ROOTED AND REFRESHED
Verde Flavors of Mexico's recently renovated Fishers location is a love letter from the Verde family to the community that has made its success possible.
VIA WOMEN'S HEALTH OPENING
Last month, Via Women's Health Collective opened the doors to their new Westfield location, fulfilling founder Dr. Taylor Hahn's vision for women's health in the community.
'ROUND THE TOWN
Hot air balloons, live music, open water, and a few things you've been meaning to do for years! Your Central Indiana summer bucket list has arrived.
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AGENDA
July
July 9–19
Indiana Black Expo Summer Celebration
Indiana Convention Center, Indianapolis indianablackexpo.com
Now in its 55th year, Indiana Black Expo's Summer Celebration returns to downtown Indianapolis for 11 days of programming rooted in community, culture and commerce. More than 300,000 attendees are expected across business conferences, health screenings, live performances and a packed exhibit hall showcasing hundreds of Black-owned businesses and organizations.
July 10
Mellencougar: America 250 Celebration Cool Creek Park, Carmel hamiltoncounty.in.gov
The Cool Creek Concert Series marks the nation's 250th birthday with Mellencougar, Central Indiana's premier John Mellencamp tribute act. Gates open at 6 p.m. for this outdoor Friday night show, with food and drink vendors and a kids' activity zone on site. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and settle in. Admission is $5; kids 12 and under are free.
July 11
Arcadia Caboose Rides
Arcadia Depot nickelplateexpress.com
Board a vintage 1956 Monon caboose for a 30-minute ride through the scenic countryside of northern Hamilton County, departing from the historic Arcadia Depot. Rides run throughout the day, with time before boarding to tour the depot itself. Tickets are $15 for adults and $12 for children and seniors; kids 2 and under ride free.
July 16–20
Hamilton County 4-H Fair
Hamilton County Fairgrounds, Noblesville extension.purdue.edu/county/hamilton
Free and open to the public, the Hamilton County 4-H Fair is five days of animal shows, competitions, handson exhibits and food made right on the fairgrounds. A genuine slice of Hoosier summer, the fair draws families from across the county to cheer on young exhibitors and browse thousands of 4-H projects spanning everything from livestock to culinary arts.
July 18
Summerfest Craft Beverage Festival
Victory Field Concourse, Indianapolis drinkin.beer
The Indiana Brewers Guild's 29th annual summer fundraiser takes over the Victory Field concourse for an afternoon of samples from more than 50 Hoosier breweries, cideries and distilleries. Field Day–style games, local artisan vendors and food round out the lineup. General admission begins at 3 p.m.; early entry and MVP Suite options are available for those who want first access to the taps.
July 23–26
Chicago: Teen Edition
The Tarkington, Carmel thecenterpresents.org
Civic Theatre's Young Actors Program brings together talented high school performers from across Central Indiana for a fully staged production of the Broadway classic. All the jazz hands, sharp choreography and showstopping numbers of the original — delivered by the next generation of Indiana talent on one of the region's finest stages.
July 25
Holy Cross Wine & Cheese Festival
Sturm Avenue Esplanade, Indianapolis indyholycross.org
Set along a tree-lined esplanade on Indianapolis's near Eastside, this beloved neighborhood fundraiser pairs wine vendors and local cheesemakers with live music, crafts and family activities from 4 to 9 p.m. Ticket packs cover samples from wine and cheese vendors, with additional food and beverages available for purchase. A low-key summer evening with genuine community spirit.
July 26
Fishers Freight vs. Orlando Pirates — Fan Appreciation Night
Fishers Event Center, Fishers fishersfreightfootball.com
The Fishers Freight close out their home schedule with Fan Appreciation Night against the Orlando Pirates, kicking off at 4 p.m. Indoor football on a 50-yard field with padded dasher boards makes for a fast, physical game unlike anything else in the area. The Freight are in their second season in the Indoor Football League, and the Fishers Event Center crowd makes every home game an event.
July 30–August 2
Gen Con 2026
Indiana Convention Center, Indianapolis gencon.com
North America's largest tabletop gaming convention returns to downtown Indianapolis for four days, drawing more than 70,000 attendees and 20,000-plus events spanning board games, role-playing, tournaments, cosplay and a soldout exhibit hall. Whether you're a seasoned player or simply curious, the scale and energy of Gen Con transform the city into something unlike any other weekend of the year.
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By SuSaN Salaz
Seen and Heard
Q&
Awith Dr. Rachel Murphy
This month, we spoke with Dr. Rachel Murphy, founder of Pismo Health DPC in Carmel, about what primary care looks like when the doctor actually has time for you. A family physician with nearly a decade of experience in Central Indiana, Dr. Murphy opened her own practice in early 2026 with one goal in mind: to give patients the kind of care they deserve.
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Q: What should Central Indiana families be paying attention to this summer when it comes to their health?
A: Indiana summers tend to be very hot and humid, so hydration and sun protection (sunscreen, hats, UPF tops and swimsuits) are of utmost importance. If your family is camping or hiking, always check for ticks. And with children spending so much time outside riding bikes and scooters, drivers should be paying extra attention in neighborhoods. Children should always wear a helmet when riding.
Q: What are the small, everyday habits that make the biggest difference in long-term health?
A: Prioritize sleep. It is so important and often neglected. Establishing a nighttime routine with good sleep hygiene and a regular bedtime can help. Consistent movement and a diet full of whole foods, fruits, vegetables, fiber and protein help treat or prevent several medical conditions and maintain a healthy weight. Daily SPF. And avoiding tobacco while
minimizing alcohol has so many benefits as well.
Q: For a family trying to simplify their healthcare, what does Pismo Health actually look like in practice?
A: One doctor, one location, one number to message and one monthly payment without extra charges. Visits can be scheduled together to simplify logistics. I also believe care improves when physicians understand their patients more wholly— when we know their family dynamics, their stressors, their lifestyle. I learn so much about patients through their families.
Q: One of the biggest frustrations in healthcare is trying to reach your doctor. How does direct messaging and sameday access change that?
A: Being able to reach your doctor in a timely fashion and schedule an appointment when it's actually needed is the whole point, especially in primary care. What good is it to see your doctor in six weeks for blood pressure that is high today? Or to be sent to urgent care, only to see a provider who
knows nothing about you or your history? Historically, physicians spoke to their patients directly by phone, but that has changed as doctors manage panels of 2,400 patients while seeing 15 to 20 people a day. In a direct primary care practice, physicians have much smaller panels, which means more time for visits and to answer calls and messages. The schedule is never booked out weeks at a time. And all messages come directly to me. No phone tree, no triage system. I can ask questions directly, call if necessary, answer on the spot or recommend a visit.
Q: A lot of people only see their doctor when something is wrong. What does proactive care actually look like at Pismo?
A: Prevention is key. The best way to optimize our health is to be proactive. In a traditional setting, patients would come in once a year for a physical and arrive with a list of several concerns, and a 30-minute visit simply isn't enough time to address all of it alongside a full physical exam. The ability to call, text or come in when issues
arise allows patients to address concerns in real time instead of waiting. And the annual visit can then be used for what it's actually meant for: thorough preventive health maintenance.
Q: What is it about the Direct Primary Care model that allows you to practice the way you've always wanted to? And what does that mean for patients who are used to the traditional system?
A: Unlike traditional insurance-based practices, Direct Primary Care operates on a monthly membership model with no surprise bills, no administrative middlemen, just a direct relationship between patient and physician. In reading patient reviews over the last nine years, the theme is always the same. They say I listen. And that is something I truly pride myself on. It's the only way I know how to practice. I believe it sets me apart, and the
DPC model allows me to continue approaching care this way, without the insurance burden, the administrative weight and the burnout I experienced in a traditional setting.
Pismo Health DPC is located at 9650 Commerce Drive, Suite 531, in Carmel. To learn more or to become a member, visit pismohealthdpc.com and follow along at @pismohealthdpc on Instagram for updates and wellness tips.
Summer Glow
SUN SOAKED
Dolce & Gabbana — Light Blue Pour Homme Eau de Parfum Orange & Cedarwood ulta.com
Dior — Diorshow 5 Couleurs Eyeshadow Palette dior.com
Shiseido — Ultimate Sun Protector Clear Stick SPF 60+ ulta.com
Ultra Violette — Sheen Screen SPF 50 Hydrating Sunscreen Lip Balm sephora.com
PHLUR — Beach Skin Shimmering Body Oil sephora.com
ciele — prime & PROTECT SPF 30+ Smoothing Primer sephora.com
Orebella — Body & Hair Perfume Mist ulta.com
By SuSan Salaz
Care for Your Hair
Korie Lance
Summer in Indiana is beautiful—but it's also brutal on your hair. Between the humidity, the heat tools, and the hours spent outdoors, your strands take a beating from June through August. Korie Lance, owner of The Mae Salon at 49th and Penn in Indianapolis, has spent a decade helping clients navigate exactly that. A stylist, entrepreneur and community builder who has grown The Mae into one of the Top 200 Salons in the Nation, she approaches summer hair care the same way she approaches everything—with intention, expertise, and a genuine investment in how her clients feel when they walk out the door.
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Here are three moves she swears by.
1. Shield against humidity before it starts.
Frizz doesn't wait for a bad hair day to strike. Korie’s first line of defense is Oribe Impermeable Anti-Humidity Spray, applied as a finishing step before you head out the door. The spray creates an invisible barrier that blocks moisture from disrupting your style, keeping hair smooth and polished even through Indiana's steamiest days, and giving hair better texture in the process. Getting ahead of the humidity, she says, is everything.
2. Don't forget SPF—for your hair.
Sunscreen for your skin is a given—and your hair deserves the same attention. One of Korie's current favorites, Kérastase Blond Absolu Blonde Guard Spray, is specifically formulated for blonde and highlighted hair. It protects against UV exposure and environmental stress that can leave color looking dull and strands feeling dry long before summer's over. A quick spritz before outdoor time goes a long way toward keeping color vibrant through Labor Day.
3. Give your hot tools the summer off.
This is the tip Korie gives her clients most often this time of year: put down the blow dryer. "Carefree summer days deserve carefree summer hair," she says. Oribe Heatless Styling Balm enhances natural texture, controls frizz, and adds soft definition without any heat required, creating effortless, touchable hair with minimal styling. It's the ideal warm-weather product for lake days, pool afternoons, or simply a slower morning.
"The Mae has never just been about great hair," says Korie, explaining, "It's always been about helping people look good, feel good, and ultimately do good." Ten years in, that mission is still the throughline. It's a philosophy that shows up in every appointment, every team member she's hired, and every initiative the salon takes on. It’s the idea that beauty, at its best, is a force for something bigger. From the awardwinning styling floor to Haircuts for Hope, an anniversary event that raised funds for children and families served by Kids Alive International, the evidence is everywhere. The accolades speak to the craft. The community work speaks to everything else.
The Mae Salon is located at 4907 N. Pennsylvania Street in Indianapolis. Book your appointment and explore services at themaesalon.com, and follow @themaesalon on Instagram.
Stephen Moore came up through every level of Chateau Kitchens before taking ownership in 2020, on a path that shaped both his leadership style and his belief that the details, more than anything, are what set exceptional work apart.
A MODERN CLASSIC
Stephen Moore
Chateau Kitchens & Home Remodeling marks 20 years in business with its sights set firmly on what's next. Under owner Stephen Moore, whose collector's eye for quality shapes everything from design philosophy to company culture, the Carmel-based company is deepening its capabilities, expanding its partnerships, and building the kind of legacy that stands the test of time.
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By SuSaN Salaz
In Stephen Moore's garage sits a 1965 Ford Mustang in Twilight Turquoise—a somewhat rare factory color, and the same shade as his father's first car decades ago. The year after Bob Moore passed away, Stephen came across the listing on Facebook Marketplace. Same year, same color, just a couple of hours away. He didn't hesitate. "Every time I take it out, I think about my dad," says Stephen. "More than any other vehicle I've owned, that car represents a connection to him. I only wish he were here to see it, because it's the car we talked about for years but never got the chance to find together."
It's a story that says a great deal about how Stephen Moore moves through the world with intention, with an appreciation for what endures, and with an eye for the details that make something genuinely worth keeping. Those same instincts are exactly what have carried Chateau Kitchens & Home Remodeling to its 20th year.
Moore has spent his entire career at Chateau Kitchens, the custom cabinetry and full-service remodeling company his father Bob and stepmother Brynn founded in 2006. He came up through every layer of it, including demo work, cabinet deliveries and cleaning job sites, before rising to ownership following his father's passing in 2020. In the years since, he has led the company through five consecutive record-breaking years, grown the team to 32 full-time employees, and sharpened the operation into something his father's clients would recognize and something a new generation of custom builders and discerning homeowners can rely on.
As Chateau marks its 20th year, the milestone isn't what has Stephen's attention. "I'm incredibly proud of where we've been," he says, "but I'm even more excited about where we're headed." That forward momentum is already visible in the team itself. Chateau's 11 lead designers bring individual perspectives and areas of expertise, but what sets them apart is how they work together. "It's not uncommon for a designer to bring a project to the team and ask for feedback on layouts, finishes, functionality or overall design direction," Stephen explains. "That collaborative environment gives our clients the benefit of not just one designer's expertise, but the collective knowledge and experience of an entire team." The result is a portfolio that spans from timeless and traditional to clean and contemporary—a range that makes Chateau Kitchens a natural partner for custom builders who need design versatility across different clients and projects.
Chateau Kitchens already works with many of Central Indiana's premier custom home builders, and Stephen sees that as one of the clearest growth opportunities ahead. "We want to be the trusted design and cabinetry partner people think of first," he says, "whether it's a custom home, a kitchen remodel, a bathroom renovation or a builder project."
For homeowners, the Chateau experience tends to reframe expectations about what a remodel can feel like. Reviews consistently flag something that rarely gets credited in the trades: the communication. Clients describe it as the first renovation that didn't feel chaotic, the first time they always knew what was coming next.
Ryan Thetford, Director of Construction, and Patrick Gorrell, Director of Operations, support Stephen and the mission of Chateau Kitchens & Home Remodeling.
Stephen Moore, owner of Chateau Kitchens & Home Remodeling, has led the Carmel-based company through five consecutive record-breaking years while building on the foundation his father, Bob Moore, established two decades ago. At 35, he is both steward of that legacy and architect of what comes next—growing the team, deepening builder partnerships, and raising the bar on what a remodeling experience can feel like.
"At the end of the day, our process isn't complicated. We simply treat people the way we would want to be treated," Stephen says, continuing that they combine detailed planning, consistent communication, accountability and respect for clients' homes. That's what allows projects to run smoothly, and what he believes to be one of the biggest reasons they've continued to grow through referrals and repeat business.
The cars in Stephen's collection follow a similar logic, and they're mostly Fords. His grandfather supervised at a Ford plant near Cleveland, and his father and uncles all worked there at one point. His first classic was a 1964 Ford Thunderbird. His most recent, a bright red 1951 Ford F1 pickup with a wood bed. Each one chosen for the same reasons he's drawn to exceptional design—authenticity, craftsmanship, and details that only reveal themselves the closer you look. "The things that endure are usually the things that feel genuine," he says. "Whether it's a classic Mustang or a beautifully designed kitchen, quality, character and attention to detail never go out of style." On the design side, that means clients are embracing character again after years of safe, uniform palettes — rich wood tones, natural stone with dramatic movement, textured finishes and organic materials that bring warmth and depth back into the home.
None of it happens without the people behind it. Stephen is quick to say that the company's growth over the last six years has been carried as much by his team as by any strategy or decision he's made. Through the hardest chapters of
his life, losing his father Bob to pancreatic cancer in 2020 and his fiancée Mallorie to leukemia in 2023, they showed up for clients, for each other and for him. "The next chapter for Chateau Kitchens is about sustainable growth, developing great leaders, taking care of our team, serving more clients at a high level, and continuing to be a company that makes a difference both inside and outside our walls," he says. That includes a commitment to community impact, including continued support for Blood Cancer United and the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, alongside the business goals.
Twenty years in, the foundation Bob Moore built of relationships first, quality above all, and clients before the bottom line, is being preserved as much as it's being built on. "At the end of the day, we're not just designing kitchens, bathrooms and other spaces in homes," Stephen says. "We're creating spaces where families gather, memories are made, and life happens. That's a responsibility we never take lightly.” The Mustang in the garage is a sixty-year-old vehicle you can jump in and drive without a second thought. That's the goal, really, to build something with enough craft and care that it simply keeps going. Chateau Kitchens, at 20, is doing exactly that.
Explore Chateau Kitchens & Home
Remodeling's full portfolio of custom cabinetry and remodeling services at chateaukitchens.com, or visit the showroom at 301 E. Carmel Drive in Carmel, Indiana. Follow @chateaukitchens on Instagram for project highlights and design inspiration.
City Center Summer
Carmel City Center has it all, and summer might be the best time to discover it. From morning coffee and brunch to afternoon shopping and evening dining, the district moves with the rhythm of the day, offering something new at every turn. Boutiques, wellness studios, galleries, restaurants and gathering spaces sit side by side in a walkable, European-inspired setting that makes it easy to arrive with a plan and end up staying much longer.
"Carmel City Center truly has something for everyone," says Jimia Smith, Vice President and Marketing Director. "Whether you're visiting for an hour, a day or a weekend, you'll find an incredible collection of clothing boutiques, gift shops, fitness and wellness businesses, great dining, entertainment and more. It's more than a destination. It's a resortlike experience in the heart of Carmel."
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Summer has a way of putting everything on display, and at Alternate View, that's an invitation. Founded by Mollie Tavel Kaback, this Carmel City Center practice reimagines eye care as a fully personalized, design-forward experience, blending advanced vision care with curated luxury eyewear and rejuvenating facial aesthetics. Every pair of frames is thoughtfully fitted to reflect the client's lifestyle and story, with expert stylists guiding each selection.
Beyond eyewear, Alternate View specializes in dry eye treatment (a concern that often intensifies with summer sun, wind and travel) alongside skin-focused aesthetics designed to enhance confidence naturally. "The longest, brightest days of the year deserve your very best view," says Mollie. It's the kind of care that feels as elevated as it is personal, and in Carmel City Center, that's exactly the point.
Alternate View is located at 750 Veterans Way, Suite 228 in Carmel City Center. Learn more at alternateview.com and follow @youralternateview on Instagram.
Summer dressing starts from the inside out, and at Uplift Intimate Apparel, founder Carla Mackie has spent more than 20 years making sure women get their foundation exactly right. This season, breathable fabrics and versatile lingerie pieces take center stage— think camisoles, lace bralettes and Empreinte swimwear from Paris that are elegant, flattering and designed to work for nearly every body, a philosophy that runs through everything in the shop.
The personalized shopping experience at Uplift is unlike any other in Carmel City Center. The boutique pairs complimentary professional bra fittings with a curated collection of lingerie, including bras and panties, sleepwear, swimwear and coverups chosen for quality construction and beautiful design. “Uplift is one of the most truly personal shopping experiences in Carmel City Center,” says Carla, adding, “Every woman who walks through the door becomes part of our story.”
Uplift Intimate Apparel is located at 711 Veterans Way, Suite 136 in Carmel City Center. Learn more at upliftintimateapparel.com and follow @upliftintimateapparel on Instagram and Facebook.
Step inside Hotel Carmichael and the rest of the world falls away. Refined rooms and suites with rich furnishings and spa-inspired baths set the tone for a stay that feels anything but ordinary. Named among the Top 100 Hotels in the World by the Luxury Lifestyle Awards, this Autograph Collection property sits at the heart of Carmel City Center.
Within the hotel, Vivante serves seasonal menus steps from the Monon Trail, the Adagio Lounge sets the evening tone with live music and cocktails, and Feinstein's cabaret (developed in partnership with legendary musician Michael Feinstein) makes for an unforgettable night out. The Cole Porter Ballroom has long made Hotel Carmichael one of the area’s most soughtafter wedding and event venues, and an expansion is currently underway, adding a second ballroom, a boardroom and new guest rooms, set for completion later this year.
Hotel Carmichael is located at One Carmichael Square in Carmel City Center. Plan your stay, explore dining and events at hotelcarmichael.com and follow @hotelcarmichael on Instagram
Start your day at Carmel City Center at Eggshell Bistro, where chef and owner Larry Hanes has been redefining brunch here since 2011. Globally inspired and locally rooted, the menu reflects Larry's relentless curiosity—what he calls "twistorical" cooking, creative spins on historic global recipes with a sharp focus on balance and flavor depth.
Summer mornings here begin with an early harvest of edible flowers from the bistro's own garden, a tradition since opening day that lands as delicate, colorful garnishes on plates like the shakshuka, Larry's forever favorite. "It's so delicious and healthy," he says. "We grow the heirloom pea, currant and cherry tomatoes, and the habaneros and edible flowers garnishing this spicy dish as well." Pair it with a pourover from Four Barrel Coffee or a hand-blended SerendipiTea and the bistro’s plein air seating for a summer morning worth lingering over.
Eggshell Bistro is located at 51 W. City Center Drive in Carmel City Center. For menus and hours, visit eggshellbistro.com and follow @eggshellbistro on Instagram.
Some boutiques sell clothes. VERVE creates an experience. This glass-walled Carmel City Center boutique brings a SoHocaliber shopping experience to the heart of downtown Carmel, with curated labels like Dorothee Schumacher, L'Agence, Go Silk and Mother Denim personally selected on New York buying trips to ensure every rack reflects an elevated, wearable aesthetic.
Summer is where VERVE shines. Expert stylists are on hand to build looks for everything from backyard barbecues to rooftop dinners, weekend weddings to Monday morning meetings. Whatever the occasion, the goal is the same: clothing that fits your life and makes you feel like yourself. "We don't just sell clothes. We style women," says Kristie Smith, founder of VERVE. "It's about helping them love how they look." In Carmel City Center, that kind of personal attention is just steps away.
VERVE is located at 750 Veterans Way, Suite 208 in Carmel City Center. Learn more at shopverve.com and follow @shopverve__ on Instagram.
Carmel City Center has no shortage of ways to spend a day, and Lone Pine is where you settle in, exhale, and let the evening take over. Founded by sommelier and restaurateur Josh Mazanowski, this modern American steakhouse brings together artfully crafted food, an expertly curated wine list, and a relaxed warmth that makes every visit feel unhurried.
Guests spill onto the patio as the evenings warm up, and happy hour runs Tuesday through Friday from 5 to 6:30 p.m. and all night on Sundays. Chef Aaron Hansen offers a monthly tasting menu for a select few days, each course thoughtfully paired with selections from Mazanowski's vintage-driven wine list. The bar program keeps pace with the season, too, with summer sippers like the watermelon and basil-infused Pink Ranger and a vodka daiquiri riff that regulars are already calling a warm-weather staple.
Lone Pine is located at 710 S. Rangeline Road in Carmel City Center. For menus, hours and reservations, visit lonepinecarmel.com and follow @lonepinecarmel on Instagram.
Carmel City Center draws families in for the day, and Hey Little Diddle gives them a reason to stay a little longer. Owner Celeste Nance has built a boutique where every visit feels purposeful, stocking baby and children's clothing, gifts, toys, books and keepsakes chosen for timeless style and natural fabrics you won't find just anywhere.
Summer is a great time to shop the current children's collection, with warm-weather styles still arriving alongside the first peek at fall. "We believe shopping for little ones should be as special as the moments you're celebrating," says Celeste, adding, “Whether you're welcoming a new baby, searching for the perfect gift, or finding something special for your own child or grandchild, we're here to help." It's the kind of personal service that keeps families coming back.
Hey Little Diddle is located at 730 South Rangeline Road in Carmel City Center. Learn more at heylittlediddle.com and follow @heylittlediddle on Instagram.
Whether you're setting a summer table, shopping for a wedding gift, or simply treating yourself, Out of the Blue Polish Pottery & Gifts is one of Carmel City Center's most unexpected and rewarding stops. Owner Ruthanne Burgard sources authentic, hand-painted stoneware directly from factories in Boleslawiec, Poland, with designs ranging from rich cobalt filigrees to vibrant florals, playful fruits and seasonal patterns that mix, match and look stunning at any summer gathering.
"Polish pottery is a way to bring beauty and joy to everyday life," says Ruthanne, adding that the durability of Polish pottery makes it ideal for outdoor dining this summer. Each piece is microwave, oven and dishwasher safe, and virtually chip-proof, even with heavy everyday use. Beautiful enough to display, sturdy enough to actually use.
Out of the Blue Polish Pottery & Gifts is located at 719 Hanover Place, Suite 144 in Carmel City Center. Shop online or learn more at outofthebluepottery.com and follow @polishpotterycarmel on Instagram.
Carmel City Center is a destination for the whole family, and Kits & Kaboodle is proof. Owner Teneen Dobbs has spent more than 20 years curating a toy shop where back-to-basic play takes center stage, stocking everything from wooden puzzles and building sets to imaginary play, arts and crafts and games the whole family can gather around. Every piece is chosen with intention, featuring classic over trendy, quality over quantity, and play that sparks imagination over screen time.
"Today, Kits & Kaboodle has become more than a store," says Teneen. "It's a gathering place for curious kids, thoughtful parents, and playful souls of all ages." Summer is prime time here, with an active collection built for kids who'd rather be outside and in-store events that give families one more reason to make a day of it.
Kits & Kaboodle Classic Toys is located at 723 Hanover Place in Carmel City Center. Learn more at kitsandkaboodletoys.com and follow @kitsandkaboodle on Instagram.
By SuSan Salaz
Rooted and RefReshed
Verde Flavors of Mexico has called Fishers home for almost two decades. The restaurant’s recently renovated space is a love letter to the community that made it all possible.
PhotograPhy By Jes NiJJer
On the patio at Verde Fishers, the air is warm, the margaritas are cold, and somehow that's enough to make any night a special occasion. Step inside and the mood shifts. The agreeable space makes you want to settle in and stay a while— familiar, yet entirely new.
When Paul Aréchiga first opened Verde in Fishers in 2009, he had no way of knowing what the next 17
years would look like. The city was still finding itself—and so was he. "This location was my first true venture into the world of restaurants and hospitality," he says. "The place where I learned, grew, made mistakes, celebrated wins, and discovered just how meaningful this industry could be." That history made the decision to renovate feel less like a business move and more like a personal one. After years of watching Fishers transform into one of the region's most dynamic communities, Aréchiga and his brothers, who shape the creative vision across every Verde location, decided the space should reflect that same momentum. "This remodel is more than a new look," he says. "It is a reflection of what Fishers itself continues to experience: change, evolution and growth."
The result is a richer, more layered environment. Warm tones, textured finishes and intentional lighting create a resonant, more sophisticated ambiance while preserving
the welcoming spirit that built Verde's following in the first place. A new bar, purposebuilt for margaritas, cocktails and conversation, gives guests a dedicated gathering space that the original location never had. The cocktail program leans into Verde's Jalisco roots, where tequila has been distilled from blue agave for centuries, making every margarita more than just a drink order. The menu has grown alongside the design, folding in new dishes and flavors, all while holding onto the classics that made Verde a Fishers institution. Octopus ceviche, the prized molcajete and the roster of street tacos remain anchors of the experience.
What makes the renovation meaningful, though, isn't just the aesthetics. It's the continuity underneath them. Some members of Verde's team have been with the restaurant since it opened, a point Aréchiga doesn't take lightly. "When we first opened our doors, I never imagined that all these years later I would be standing here with so much gratitude for everything this community has allowed us to become," he says. "The support we have received from Fishers and the surrounding communities has been one of the greatest honors of my life."
Since those early days in Fishers, Aréchiga has expanded Verde into locations across Carmel, Zionsville and Indianapolis, alongside concepts like Casa Santa and Piedra. But this location, the one where it all started, holds a different kind of weight. "That thought inspires me deeply," he says of watching the next generation of Fishers residents grow up around the table. For now, the doors are open, the patio is buzzing, and Verde Fishers is very much back.
Visit Verde Flavors of Mexico at 11680 Commercial Drive in Fishers. Learn more at verdeflavorsofmexico.com and follow @verde_flavorsofmexico on Instagram.
ON THE SCENE
Via Women’s Health Opening
Last month, Via Women’s Health Collective opened the doors to their new location in Westfield. For Dr. Taylor Hahn, founder and board-certified OB-GYN and certified menopause practitioner, this was about so much more than opening a new practice. It was the beginning of a movement to reimagine women's healthcare. “Seeing our community come together to celebrate this vision was incredibly meaningful,” shares Dr. Hahn. “We're building a place where women feel heard, valued and empowered, and while this milestone means everything to me, it's only the beginning of what we hope to accomplish for women's health, our community, and beyond.”
By SuSaN Salaz
’Round the Town
Best Summer Yet
Hot air balloons, live music, open water, and a few things you've been meaning to do for years—your Central Indiana summer bucket list is here. Excuses, however, are not.
Visit a Water Park SKYLAKE Adventures Sheridan, Indiana skylakeindiana.com
Just north of Hamilton County, SKYLAKE Adventures delivers a full day of outdoor thrills on the water. The floating aqua park features inflatable obstacles, slides and climbing structures anchored in a pristine lake, with something to challenge every age and skill level. Life jackets are provided, and the atmosphere is equal parts competitive and carefree. A genuine summer day well spent.
See John Mellencamp Live in Concert on July 18 Ruoff Music Center Noblesville, Indiana ruoffmusiccenter.net
One of rock's most enduring voices returns to one of Indiana's most beloved outdoor venues. Ruoff Music Center's open-air amphitheater is the ideal setting for a summer concert night, so bring a blanket for the lawn, grab a cold drink, and let Mellencamp's catalog carry you through the evening. This is the kind of show that should be on every Hoosier’s summer concert list.
Paddle Geist Reservoir Wheel Fun Rentals at Geist Waterfront Park Fishers, Indiana wheelfunrentals.com
Geist Reservoir looks entirely different from the water. Wheel Fun Rentals at Geist Waterfront Park offers kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals right on the shore, making it easy to get out on one of Central Indiana's most scenic lakes without hauling your own gear. No reservations required — just arrive, rent, and spend the afternoon gliding across one of the area's most gorgeous stretches of open water.
See the Colts Train from July 29–August 20 Colts Training Camp at Grand Park Westfield, Indiana colts.com
This summer marks the final season of Colts Training Camp at Grand Park, making it a can't-miss before the team moves on. Watch players and coaches work through drills up close in a setting that feels remarkably accessible for a professional NFL operation. Admission is free, the atmosphere is energetic, and the chance to see your favorite players in person doesn't get much easier than this.
Take a Farm Tour
Traders Point Creamery
Zionsville, Indiana
traderspointcreamery.com
Tucked into the rolling landscape of Zionsville, Traders Point Creamery is one of Central Indiana's most rewarding summer stops. Tour the certified organic farm, watch the grass-fed herd at work, and pick up fresh dairy straight from the source. The on-site restaurant makes a natural next stop for lunch or dinner. It's a rare combination of education, atmosphere and exceptional food all on one property.
Pick Your Own Flowers
Anne Marie’s Flower Farm
Zionsville, Indiana
annemariesflowerfarm.com
There's something deeply satisfying about walking the rows of a working flower farm and cutting your own blooms to bring home. Anne Marie's Flower Farm in Zionsville offers a u-pick experience that swaps the grocery store bouquet for something far more personal. Sunflowers, zinnias and seasonal varieties change throughout summer, so every visit looks a little different. Reservations are recommended — check the website before you go.
Take a Two-Seater IndyCar Ride
Indianapolis Motor Speedway
Indianapolis, Indiana
indyracingexperience.com
The Indianapolis Motor Speedway is iconic on its own — but experiencing it from the passenger seat of a two-seater IndyCar is something else entirely. The Indy Racing Experience puts riders on the actual track at speed, with a professional driver at the wheel. It's loud, fast and completely unforgettable. For anyone who has ever watched the 500 and wondered what it feels like, now is the time to find out.
Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride
Midwest Balloon Rides Fishers, Indiana midwestballoonrides.com
There's nothing quite like watching Central Indiana unfold from above.
Midwest Balloon Rides offers sunrise and sunset flights that drift over the region's rolling countryside, giving passengers a perspective few ever get to experience. Flights typically include a champagne toast, making it as celebratory as it is breathtaking. Book in advance, as spots fill fast in summer.
E-Bike the Monon Future Velo Carmel, Indiana futurevelo.com
Renting an e-bike from Future Velo and cruising the Monon Trail is one of summer's simplest pleasures. The electric assist makes it easy to cover real distance without breaking a sweat, winding through Carmel's Arts & Design District and beyond. Pack a snack, stop wherever looks interesting, and let the trail set the pace. No experience necessary. You just show up and ride.
Attend the LIV Golf Tournament from August 20–23
Chatham Hills Westfield, Indiana chathamhills.com
World-class professional golf comes to Westfield this August when Chatham Hills hosts a LIV Golf event. The tournament brings some of the sport's biggest names to one of Central Indiana's premier private courses, with a format designed for fan engagement and entertainment alongside the competition. Whether you're a devoted golfer or simply looking for a spectacular outdoor outing, this is a rare event for the region.
