LIVING GUIDE 2023
FRESH INSPIRATION
PAUL ARÉCHIGA
THE ABSOLUTE AGENDA
Opening day at the ballpark, garden mania and maybe even a pot of gold. Spring must be back in town!
RACE INTO SPRING
Whether you're new to running or an old pro at it, there's never been a better time to sign up for one of central Indiana's great races.
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OUTDOOR LIVING GUIDE 2023
Let us help you transform your outdoor spaces into a welcoming and functional oasis for your family and friends.
BREAKING AWAY
Six perfect spring getaways, specially tailored to your adventurous spirit.
March 11-19
Flower + Patio Show
Indiana State Fairgrounds
indianaflowerandpatioshow.com
Spring is just around the corner, and the Indiana Flower + Patio Show is the perfect place to get inspired, with stunning displays and demonstrations. Learn landscaping tips from the pros, connect with local vendors, and see what’s in bloom at the show’s signature feature gardens and plant market.
March 15
Dueling Pianos
Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael Feinsteinshc.com
With an unrivaled atmosphere, tempting cocktails and an enticing menu, Feinstein’s Cabaret at Hotel Carmichael steals the show. Sing along to all your favorites at this classic dueling piano concert, where skilled pianists go toeto-toe on striking grand pianos for an entertaining evening for the entire family.
March 17
Leprechaun Scavenger Hunt Clay Terrace clayterrace.com
Put on your green and celebrate St. Patty’s Day in style at the Clay Terrace Mall for a fun-filled scavenger hunt. The leprechauns will be hiding the clues, and it’s sure to be a day full of surprises for the whole family—and hopefully a prize or two at the end of the rainbow.
March 18
Peking Acrobats Featuring the Shanghai Circus
The Palladium thecenterpresents.org
Don’t miss the awe-inspiring Peking Acrobats and Shanghai Circus at the Palladium, where skilled performers showcase their incredible balance and agility in mesmerizing acts and aerial feats. This spectacular show will dazzle your senses with stunning costumes, dramatic special effects, and live music with traditional Chinese instruments.
March 31
Opening Day: Indianapolis Indians vs. Omaha Storm Victory Field milb.com/indianapolis
Root for the home team as the Indianapolis Indians kick off their 121st season against the Omaha Storm for the team’s home opener at Victory Field. The matinee marks the beginning of another exciting season for the Triple-A team and the first of 75 home games this year.
April 8
Carmel Marathon Carmel, IN carmelmarathon.com
Excitement and adrenaline run high whether you participate in the 5K, the full marathon or anything in between. But you don’t have to be a runner to enjoy the Carmel Marathon— spectators are welcome and especially encouraged at Midtown Plaza to cheer the racers on near the finish line.
April 1
Presidential Egg Roll
Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site bhpsite.org
Explore the beautiful grounds of the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site and experience the historical tradition of rolling eggs for a morning of fun this spring. Similar to the White House Easter Egg Roll that dates back to 1878, this lively event is the only egg roll in Indianapolis.
Opening Soon Gallery Pastry
4573 N. College Avenue, Indianapolis gallerypastry.com
Indy’s iconic Gallery Pastry is growing again, moving its SoBro location to a new and improved space just a few blocks away at 46th and College this spring. Classic brunch and favorite dishes will be served, along with their artful pastries—but new creations, dinner and cocktails are also on the menu.
Lace up your running shoes and get ready to hit the pavement—because it’s off to the races this spring.
Whether you’re a seasoned runner or looking to take on a new challenge, now is the perfect time to start preparing for some fun and exciting races around town. If you’re new to running, start slowly, as you gradually build up your distance, endurance and speed. Then, set a goal to work towards, like completing your first 5K or hitting a new personal best in a half-marathon. Don’t forget to incorporate strength training and stretching into your routine to avoid injury.
The real fun starts when you sign up for a race. There are so many great options—so find one that fits your goals and interests. The Carmel Marathon encourages runners and walkers of all levels to join in the weekend. “It’s a great place for beginners to try their first 5K, with plenty of support along the course and finish line,” says Kim Jackson of CRRG Events. She adds that the fast, flat course has become a popular destination for runners from all over the country, including seasoned pros racing for a personal best or Boston-qualifier time. “Because we have a common start and finish line for all events, beginners in the 5K will toe the same start line as Olympic Qualifiers just two lanes away.”
No matter what race you choose, remember to enjoy the journey. Running isn’t just about crossing the finish line. It’s about pushing yourself, challenging your limits and feeling the rush of endorphins as you accomplish your goals.
April 8
Carmel Marathon Carmel, IN carmelmarathon.com
April 18
Shamrock Run and Walk Indianapolis, IN indystpats.com
April 15
Hoosier Half Marathon & 5k Bloomington, IN hoosierhalf.com
May 6
500 Festival Mini Marathon Indianapolis, IN indymini.com
July 15
8-Hour Dream Endurance Race and Cat Nap 5k Butler University 8hourdream.com
October 21
Indiana Women's Half Marathon & 5k Carmel, IN Indywomenshalfmarathon.com
Warming up before running is crucial to prepare your body for the race's demands and prevent injury.
Start with dynamic stretching, which involves moving your muscles through their full range of motion to help increase blood flow to your muscles. Examples include high knees, leg swings and walking lunges.
Do some light jogging, then add short sprints to prime your muscles and cardiovascular system for the intensity of the race.
Check your headspace and prepare mentally by visualizing yourself running successfully and feeling strong and confident.
Drink plenty of water during your warm-up to ensure your body is hydrated for the race.
After completing a marathon or running a race, you must cool down and recover appropriately for your body to heal.
Rehydrate with water and electrolyterich fluids to replace those lost during the race.
Perform static stretching, which involves stretching a muscle near its furthest point and holding for several seconds, for example, hamstring and quad stretches.
Consider a post-race massage to help promote circulation and speed up recovery. Also, use a foam roller to help alleviate muscle pain and promote healing.
Eat a balanced meal to replenish your body's glycogen stores.
Verde's newest location in Zionsville is a feast for the senses. The refined restaurant honors the marvelous food culture and exquisite design elements of Guadalajara in Jalisco, Mexico. This vibrant, archetypal Mexican city is home to the Aréchiga family, who immigrated to the United States 20 years ago, settling in the suburbs of Chicago and opening the first of many restaurants shortly after. Today, the family owns several establishments serving Mexican fare that have evolved over the years, though none quite as epicurean as
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the group of Verde restaurants in the Indianapolis suburbs operated by Paul Aréchiga, with the latest destination in Zionsville the most sophisticated of all.
Lush flora greets you at the door, welcoming you into the warmly lit space. At the bar, translucent, back-lit marble creates an artistic palate for your handcrafted cocktail. (At Verde, anything with tequila is the house favorite, as the distilled spirit made from the blue agave plant also hails from Jalisco.) A massive chandelier dominates the environment, with cascading layers of bronze, as if the dome had been plucked off the Guadalajara Cathedral itself and inverted overhead. Vining plants and succulents drip from the ceiling and between sparkling sconces illuminating the walls. Swank slabs of rough-hewn wood form intimate table seating, while more private booths hug the periphery.
"The look and feel of Verde is inspired by our native Guadalajara," says Paul, pointing out that the second-largest city in Mexico has countless spots that celebrate Mexican tradition in innovative ways, combining the old and the new. "We visit very often and try to bring back ideas from these spots as much as we can," he adds. In Spanish, verde means green, which the Aréchiga family sees as beauty, energy and life. All of the Verde locations embody this concept—this juxtaposition of raw and organic elements with avant-garde styles to create a unique identity.
The experience is a feast for the senses. Everything about the restaurant draws you in, from the dreamy atmosphere and
impeccable service to the authentic menu. Blending traditional yet contemporary flavors, Verde offers elegant, upscale Mexican dishes, including octopus ceviche, their prized molcajete and a tempting variety of mouth-watering street tacos. The concept of Verde, just as it is visualized in the design, is tangibly and tastefully evident in every dish. For the Aréchiga family, Verde relates directly to Mexican food, symbolizing fresh and organic ingredients found in nature. "Verde has a lot to do with being resourceful, using what you have in your kitchen, utilizing seasonal ingredients creatively and efficiently," Paul explains.
While the ambience is unabashedly luxurious and the food and drinks topnotch, the mood is fun and unpretentious. "We hope to communicate a message of diversity within our own industry," says Paul. He believes that just about everyone loves Mexican food, and he is grateful not only for the opportunity to offer a different experience in Mexican cuisine but also to have guests so receptive to Verde's concept. "We are able to evolve and present new things because our clientele continues to support us, which, to us, is a clear indicator of Indy's trendsetting ways," he says.
Paul moved to the Indianapolis area in 2007 and is raising his two young children with his wife Deborah in Fishers. He has always had an entrepreneurial spirit, something handed down in his family much like the cherished recipes. As his brothers and cousins continue to explore and evolve the Aréchiga family of restaurants outside of Chicago, he has
grown the Verde restaurants alongside the northside neighborhoods and surrounding communities here. Verde's continued commitment to quality has not gone unnoticed, allowing the restaurant to expand as the area develops. Paul and the Aréchiga family remain intentional as they grow, staying present and active in each location. "The way we stay rooted and authentic has everything to do with our physical presence at all our stores," says Paul. "Our recipe books and training manuals are essential in our kitchens, but providing that personal touch that only comes with experience is what gives our product that consistency." Paul and
After being part of Verde’s team for many years, Diego Álvarez and Luis Aguilar join Paul Aréchiga as business partners at the new Verde location in Zionsville. Diego, who has worked at Verde since he was 16 years old, will focus on customer service and operations, while Luis, who has been with Verde for a decade, will continue as head Chef. “His culinary vision will continue to be a main influence of Verde’s menu now more than ever,” says Paul.
Paul Aréchiga was only 14 years old when he moved with his family from the lively city of Guadalajara in Jalisco, Mexico, to the midwestern suburbs of Chicago. In 2007, he ventured to the northside of Indianapolis and has called the area home ever since. The flair of his hometown has followed him throughout his journey, though, says the owner and operator of Verde Flavors of Mexico, which recently opened a dynamic new location in Zionsville. "As Verde grows, so does my connection to my roots in Mexico and my roots here in Indianapolis," says the young restaurateur, who will celebrate his 35th birthday this spring.
his relatives take pride in coaching and mentoring their team to deliver robust dishes and drinks as if they were serving them personally.
Paul remains connected to his roots in Mexico and Chicago, often traveling to nurture these bonds, but he is proud to call Indianapolis home and raise his family here. In 2021, Paul received the Indiana Latino Male-Owned Business award at the Indiana Latino Expo, a recognition he was honored to accept on behalf of his family and his team. "It is a true privilege to be able to work with the diverse team that makes up Verde today," he says, detailing that the team he leads ranges from talented high schoolers in part-time positions to others who have made a
career in this industry, including waitstaff, chefs, mixologists and managers. "Creating jobs is necessary for our growth, but what motivates me the most is highlighting the friendly faces that take our customers through the experience we offer at Verde."
Visit Verde Flavors of Mexico at Ironworks in Indianapolis, in Carmel, Fishers, and their newest location in Zionsville at 3221 S. US 421 in the Appaloosa Crossing development. Find out more online at verdeflavorsofmexico.com and follow Verde @verde_flavorsofmexico on Instagram for the latest news.
As winter fades away, it’s time to welcome spring with open arms and prepare to embrace the great outdoors again. With warmer weather and longer days, there’s no better time to invest in your outdoor living space, making it a welcoming and functional oasis for your family and friends. To help transform your space into a springtime paradise, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide featuring the best local businesses specializing in luxury outdoor living. In this guide, we showcase a range of expert tips, trends, and product recommendations to help you make the most of your outdoor living area—from pools to ponds, fireplaces to theatres, and lighting to living walls and landscaping.
Investing in your outdoor living space can provide a variety of benefits, both practical and aesthetic. With the right design and investments, you can create an outdoor area that adds value to your home and enhances your overall quality of life.
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Chad Bruick, founder and CEO of Outdoor Environments Group (OEG), and his team have created visually stunning outdoor spaces for 15 years, offering full-service landscape architecture, construction and maintenance. Integrating a beautiful yet practical hardscape (the walls, walkways and nonliving elements) with a natural softscape (the trees, shrubs and living components) is just the beginning of what OEG offers. Still, it’s the foundation of your outdoor environment that should not be overlooked.
Bruick and his team seek to match their inspiring designs and innovative solutions with the natural surroundings and the stories they will tell. Future family gatherings, serene moments and special memories that will be made in these spaces are what excite them most. More than a landscaping company, OEG can enhance your outdoor living space and elevate your lifestyle through a harmonious landscape, but with an in-house team including landscape architects, construction specialists, property care and maintenance experts and experienced horticulturist that’s only the beginning.
To view some of the inspiring environments OEG has created or to connect about your vision, visit oeggroup.com or call 317-292-9776 to learn more about their end-to-end landscaping design, construction and maintenance services.
Stephanie Miller doesn’t believe in brown thumbs. The owner of Naturspire, a biophilic design firm that specializes in incorporating nature into interior and exterior spaces via plantscapes, living walls, and moss walls, says all of the unique designs they offer are inspired by nature. “Our mission is to create healthy, happy, more productive environments where people live, play, work, study and heal,” she says.
Living walls are especially suited to outdoor living spaces, offering imaginative solutions to create a privacy screen, beautify a blank space or hide an unattractive view. “Not only are living walls becoming more popular, nature itself is trending,” says Miller, adding that a vertical garden is an ideal way to enjoy greenery and flowers in a small area or previously unused wall, fitting in spaces a traditional garden bed can’t. “Not only can your garden include annuals and perennials—you can also grow your own vegetables,” she explains.
If you dream of vertical gardens in your future, visit Naturspire (formerly Great GrowIn’s), located in the Indiana Design Center at 200 S. Rangeline Road in Carmel. “We’ll walk you through every detail,” says Miller. For more information, visit naturspire.com and follow @_naturspire on Instagram.
Liven things up with a plant wall by Naturspire.
Relaxing by a pool is the ultimate summer luxury—but what if you could enjoy your outdoor pool year-round?
Tresss Aquatectural Designs, headquartered in Zionsville, combines state-of-the-art technology with beauty, safety and fun. When closed, the surface is a hardscape, doubling as a patio area. Ideal for intimate spaces, the moving floor is built to withstand weight and pressure like a deck, while insulating the water underneath for use any time of year.
The magic continues when the decks are opened, or lowered, easily controlled digitally from a touch-screen panel. “The tile sinks down into the pool,” says CEO Cecilia Alvarez-Heard. “It becomes the floor of the pool, and you can set it to any depth you wish,” she adds. The opportunity for custom depths makes the innovative pool covers perfect for children learning to swim and persons with disabilities, and can be set at safe diving depths as well.
For more information on Tresss Aquatectural Designs, visit tresss.com. See the Tresss product in action on their Instagram page, @tresss.designs, which features videos, images and updates, including the upcoming release of the Tresss prefabricated plunge pool, complete with their signature Tresss Aquatectural Designs moving floor cover.
Add a sense of Zen with water features and more by Pro Care Horticultural Services.
Outdoor landscapes should captivate the senses, says Lowell Rolsky, president of Pro Care Horticultural Services, who works with an award-winning team to create unmatched outdoor environments. As our living spaces have migrated outside in recent years, the inside sees benefits, too, through the views and sounds of a beautifully landscaped yard. Many outdoor living trends come and go, but water features such as fish ponds, fountains and natural waterfalls remain timeless, creating a focal point and enhancing the feeling of peace. “Water noise is always great because people just love the serenity of it all and the soothing nature of that sound,” says Rolsky, adding that that sound of water not only creates a more tranquil environment but can also mask other peripheral noises such as traffic or highway noise.
Pro Care offers end-to-end services for all outdoor living needs, including landscape, hardscape, pergolas and pools, with a single point of contact for their services to ensure the best results. Don’t LIVE in the world and DREAM…LIVE in the world of your DREAMS with the help of Pro Care Horticultural Services. Collaborate with the full-service landscape professionals at procarelandscapers.com or by calling 317-872-4800
Relax
Bring an element of ambience and comfort to your outdoor living space, especially in the evening, with a fire feature. Godby Hearth & Home is known for fireplaces but also specializes in outdoor living amenities, including grills, grill islands and fire pits. According to owner Brian Adams, incorporating fireplaces in covered patio spaces is a growing trend, which creates a relaxing and inviting space even in cooler months.
Godby offers custom and turnkey fire features. While they have wood-burning options, Adams says natural gas is preferred for outdoor products, especially in covered areas with different design and application requirements than open-air projects. “Gas is less work and easier to control at the start, during the burn, and the stop time,” he says, adding that it also burns much cleaner than wood.
If you’re ready to heat things up, Godby Hearth & Home experts will guide you through every step, from envisioning your goals, exploring your options and making informed decisions along the way with their “added value” approach. Visit the interactive studio at the Indiana Design Center at 200 S. Rangeline Road in Carmel to learn more. Find them online at godbyhearth com and follow @godbyhearth on Instagram.
Residential outdoor lighting serves many purposes, including safety, security and aesthetics. This year, look for architectural lighting to add a welcoming atmosphere and to create interest in your space by highlighting the design features and creating a sense of depth and dimension. “We are also still seeing oversized fixtures used outside,” says Natalie Gertiser, showroom manager, who notes statement pieces and materials typically seen indoors, such as crystal sconces, now have outdoor appeal.
In addition to statement pieces, strategically placing lights near entryways, walkways and other work areas creates a functional and aesthetically pleasing environment. Task lighting is essential, especially in outdoor kitchen areas, allowing you to see what you’re cooking even in the evening. Ferguson carries a variety of grills, and Gertiser adds that built-in grills can be equipped with task lighting inside.
At the Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery, consultants are available to assist with all your outdoor lighting needs, from the latest trends to classic styles, along with plumbing, appliances and cabinetry to complete the perfect outdoor living space. Visit their showroom at the Indiana Design Center at 200 S. Rangeline Road in Carmel, or find them online at ferguson.com.
Integrate high quality audio and video outside with Triphase Technologies.
Adding outdoor audio/video (AV) components to your outdoor living area can extend your entertainment space and turn your backyard into a fresh-air oasis. Sean Bartram, design consultant at Triphase Technologies, suggests making the most of this area by utilizing high-performance technology that doesn’t detract from the natural beauty.
For outdoor audio needs, Triphase recommends Sonance products, offered in a range of speaker packages that effectively withstand the elements while blending effortlessly into the environment. “The key is to ensure the speakers are positioned to provide even distribution of sound and are aimed back at the house versus speakers mounted on the outside of the home shooting over your head and at your neighbors,” Bertram says. For video, dedicated outdoor televisions are available for both shade and full-sun conditions. For those seeking a more significant immersive experience, Triphase also carries fixed and portable battery-operated outdoor projection screens.
Design professionals at Triphase work closely with clients to create, install and maintain high-quality outdoor entertainment systems that will be enjoyed for years. Visit TRIPhase-tech. com or call 317-845-0236 to schedule a tour of the expansive showroom at 10960 Bennett Parkway in Zionsville to speak with a specialist and see the latest in outdoor AV technology and outdoor lighting, along with a wide range of home automation and entertainment offerings.
For the perfect spring getaway, find a place that suits your style. The six destinations we bring you here have something for everyone and are anything but typical.
For the Art & Design Aficionado:
Columbus, Indiana
Drive time: 1 hour
If you’re an architectural enthusiast or appreciate beautiful design, add Columbus, Indiana, to your destination list. This small town has a big reputation, boasting an array of buildings and public artworks by the world’s most famous architects and artists, including I.M. Pei, Henry Moore and Dale Chihuly. Spring is an enchanting time to visit, with the perfectly placed aristocrat pears, magnolias and dogwoods blooming in early April. Experience the unique landscape on one of the many tours available, guided or self-paced, showcasing all of the highlights, including the Miller House and Garden, designed by Eero Saarinen.
For the Hiker & Biker: Brown County, Indiana
Drive time: 1.5 hours
The rolling hills of Southern Indiana are an idyllic escape from city life, offering both a relaxing retreat and outdoor adventure. Nicknamed “Little Smokies,” Brown County State Park boasts miles of impressive hiking and mountain biking trails that take you through lush forests, across babbling creeks and on to stunning vistas. Outside the park, unwind with a walk through the quaint town of Nashville, or visit the T.C. Steele State Historic Site to explore the beautiful gardens that come alive each spring and tour the home and studio of one of Indiana’s most renowned artists.
For the Equestrian: Lexington, Kentucky
Drive time: 3 hours
The rolling hills, vast country landscape and lush pastures, framed by miles of white fences known to the Bluegrass Region, come alive with spring. “As the horse capital of the world, there are multiple equine offerings you can experience,” says Martina Barksdale, Director of Communications at VisitLex. Tour a stud farm or visit a nursery, where future Thoroughbred champions are raised; go behind the scenes at feed mills and medical clinics; or experience the thrill of Thoroughbred racing at the iconic Keeneland and harness racing at The Red Mile.
For the City Slicker: Chicago, Illinois
Drive time: 3 hours
Welcome to the Windy City, where the hustle and bustle is part of the everyday scene. Spring is the perfect time to visit downtown Chicago, with its world-class attractions, thrilling nightlife and endless entertainment options. For a true taste of the culture, visit a museum. The Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium and The Art Institute of Chicago are all a short walk from Millennium Park and the famous Navy Pier. Be sure to make your way to Magnificent Mile, stroll through the high-end fashion boutiques and luxury department stores, and encounter elegant dining options.
For the Mountain Lover: Gatlinburg, Tennessee Drive time: 6.5 hours
As the snow melts away and the trees begin to bud, springtime in Gatlinburg is a unique and unforgettable experience. The charming downtown area features local shops, restaurants and a variety of family activities. Or you can escape to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, where picturesque trails and scenic lookouts offer views of rushing waterfalls, blooming redbud and dogwood trees and abundant wildlife. The park is famous for its spectacular wildflower display, with mountain laurel, rhododendron, flame azaleas and more, putting on a breathtaking show this time of year.
For the Beach Comber: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Drive time: 12 hours
Hilton Head Island is the ultimate spring break getaway, with miles of pristine beaches, warm weather and plenty of activities. Amazing resorts, award-winning golf courses, miles of bike trails and nature reserves abound, surrounded by some of the best white sand beaches on the East Coast. The first eco-planned destination in the country, the island is lush, tropical and full of trees. “Things were built around the trees, not the other way around,” says Hallie Martin-Hanlin, communications director at Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce, adding that no streetlights are allowed, making the evening star show worth the trip.
If you’ve been staring at your walls and wondering how changing the color would make a difference, perhaps we can help. Have your local painting team at CertaPro Painters ® of Indianapolis refresh the home you love and show you the power of fresh color.
We’ll provide a worry-free painting experience that fits your needs – complete with safety and cleaning guidelines to keep you and our painting teams safe. Schedule your on-site or remote estimate today to get started on your spring project!
*Offer applies to your residential painting project of $4,000 or more. Must be presented at time of estimate. Not valid with other offers. Not valid on current estimates or proposals. Available at CertaPro Painters ® of Indianapolis. Expires 5/31/23.
