Embrace Mother Nature's Awakening: A Celebration of Her Beauty & Strength
Spring arrives like an old friend, gently unfolding its arms with delicate blooms and welcoming warmth. It lingers in the morning song of the birds as they celebrate the glory of a new day. It glows in the vibrancy of sunbeams dancing through the trees, and in the whimsical movement of the wind as it whispers promises of renewal. Spring arrives in the strength of fresh blades of grass pushing through the earth, in the nurturing embrace of lush healthy green spaces, and in the cleansing scent of rain-washed air. It is the warmth of sunlit pavement beneath our bare feet and the endurance of longer days stretching before us as a reminder to pace our stride to take it all in. It is the feeling of home, as life begins to awaken from the brisk snow filled winter and the world stirs with color once more.
This month, as we celebrate women and the energy of the feminine, we recognize how seamlessly her essence parallels the changing season, an awakening. Like Mother Nature, women embody resilience, warmth, wisdom, creation and transformation. We nurture, we endure, and we bring beauty into the world in ways both seen and unseen.
So as we dust off our bicycles, let our children splash in puddles, and step outside to savor the fresh air, take a moment to truly feel this nurturing season. Breathe in the renewal of spring, and recognize the feminine energy that surrounds you and wraps you with her unconditional love. Feel Mother Nature awakening, both in spirit and in landscape, and honor the beauty, strength, and life-giving force she shares with all of us.
SHAUNA OLIVERIO, PUBLICATION DIRECTOR @ROCHESTERCITYLIFESTYLE
May 2025
PUBLISHER
Chris Oliverio | chris.oliverio@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Jessica Snow | jessica.snow@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Jennifer Lee | jennifer.lee@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Shauna Oliverio | shauna.oliverio@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Jennifer Lee, Shauna Oliverio, Ann-Marie Murphy
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Jessica Snow Photography
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford
LAYOUT DESIGNER Lillian Gibbs
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
inside the issue
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Spring Open House at Bordines April 25th-27th Spectacular Sales, Seminars, Food Trucks & Giftcard Giveaways! 2: Yates Cider Mill OPENS May 17th at 9am! 3: Rata2ee is now enrolling for their summer camps! 4: Bloom with every step! Dance into spring with vibrant florals! Shop seasonally Hello Fancy Boutique 5: Looking for a Brunch Spot on Sundays? Check out The Oakland Kitchen & Bar 10am-3pm 6: Stretch & flow, strong you'll grow, REFORMER love will always show! Spring into REFORMING FOUNDATIONS! 7: Purchase one-of-a-kind art created by the artists of Paint a Miracle! 5/9 Annual Spring Luncheon
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business monthly
Avon Players Presents Young Frankenstein
Frederick, grandson of the infamous Victor Frankenstein, inherits his family's estate. With the help of a hunchbacked sidekick and a leggy lab assistant, Frederick reluctantly brings to life his own creature, but when the monster escapes, hilarity abounds. Based on the Mel Brooks film, Young Frankenstein is an electrifying musical comedy with sublime slapstick, wicked wordplay, and madcap musical numbers. May 30-31, Jun 1, June 6-8, June 13-14 Friday/Saturday performances at 8 PM, Sunday at 2 PM.
barre3 at Comerica Park
barre3 at Comerica Park: Barre at the Ballpark with barre3 Metro Detroit is back! Join us on June 29 for a one-of-a-kind barre3 class on the Comerica Landing, overlooking the field. After class, keep the energy going with a hosted tailgate, then cheer on the Tigers with included game tickets! Move with us, connect with the community, and experience barre3 in a whole new way—all in the heart of Downtown Detroit.
beautiLofts' Celebrates 10 Year Anniversary
beautiLofts proudly celebrated 10 years of beauty and success with a special anniversary event at 429 Main. Choosing Maggie’s Wigs 4 Kids of Michigan as their charity, they supported local children experiencing medical-related hair loss. beautiLofts’ empowers beauty professionals to build the business of their dreams. Learn about their commitment to support licensed professionals through education and personalized salon suites at https://www.beautilofts.com/
ARTICLE BY JENNIFER LEE
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MELISSA DOUGLAS & JESSICA SNOW PHOTOGRAPHY
JESSICA SNOW PHOTOGRAPHY
A decade of capturing life’s best moments.
Because she’s usually behind the lens, you may not recognize Jessica Snow at first glance - but you’ve definitely seen her work. Jess is the one capturing the moments you’ll treasure for a lifetime...she captures the images that will hang on your wall for decades to come. What started out as her hobby, has turned into a full time photography business, and her story is as inspiring as the photos she takes.
A little over a decade ago, Jessica started her photography business right from the front porch of her home. Fast forward a decade, and she’s photographed over 2,000 local families, not to mention created countless beautiful memories for new parents, couples, entrepreneurs, and just about anyone who has reached out to her to document their life’s most treasured moments. From a small home studio to a newly designed space downtown, she’s just getting started.
If you had asked Jessica in high school what she wanted to do, she would have told you that she planned on being a hairstylist, and that’s just what she started out doing. She may have tossed “photographer” out there – but not in the formal,
“I’m starting a business” way. More like “I’m always the one with the camera, and everyone looks to me to capture the moment.” Whether it was a school event, a hangout with friends, or just a family gathering, Jess was there with her camera, and she loved it. Little did she know, those Stoney Creek high school days of snapping candid shots would eventually lead to her becoming the one of the most well-known photographers in Rochester.
It was 2019 when Jess decided to leave her job as a hairstylist to turn her passion into a full-time business. With her camera in hand, she officially launched Jessica Marnae Photography, which later evolved to Jessica Snow photography after getting married to her husband, Jacob. She started off focusing on
newborns and families, a perfect fit since she was living in that world as a young wife and mother herself. She knew first hand what type of feelings parents were trying to capture, she understood the sweetness of holding that new baby and photographing those moments that would be treasured for a lifetime. The front porch of her house became her first “studio,” and it didn’t take long before the demand grew. Her clients loved her style –natural, real, and heartfelt.
As any photographer (or entrepreneur) knows, in order to grow, you’ve got to evolve. Jessica realized her front porch studio wasn’t going to cut it for much longer. So, with the help of her husband, they built a studio space above their garage, allowing for Jessica
to photograph more families all while staying close to her own home and family.
Jessica didn’t stop there. Several years later, she decided it was time to step it up again and rented space off of Third street in Rochester. Then, the Universe had an even better plan, and she ended up in Studio Em + Lu, a shared creative space with her best friend, Courtney Massa. Fun fact: Jessica and Courtney met years ago when they were both hairstylists, so when the opportunity came to team up, it felt like the perfect fit for them. Now, they share a space that’s not just a photography studio – it’s also a hair and colorist studio for Courtney, and lends itself to studio sessions, and workshops that bring other entrepreneurs to collaborate and inspire each other. And honestly, it’s got all the good vibes.
While Jess’s studio is gorgeous, her heart lies in the great outdoors. Her favorite shoots? They’re usually outside, capturing families just being themselves in natural settings. There’s something about a sunset in the woods, and a relaxed, candid moment in a beautiful outdoor backdrop that really speaks to Jessica’s style. Whether it’s a greenhouse with dirt floors (she’s always on the lookout for the perfect one) or one of the incredible outdoor spaces that the Rochester area has to offer, she’s all about those raw, authentic moments, and nature provides the perfect backdrop for that.
As any business owner knows – running a business isn’t easy, especially when you’re a one-woman show. For years, Jess has scheduled the sessions, planned the shoots, styled
the sets, took the photos, and edited everything herself. It’s a lot to manage, but it’s everything she loves. It’s taken her awhile to find the balance that works best for her, and she knows the importance of taking long weekend trips Upnorth with her family to recharge. Her advice for any budding entrepreneur? “Don’t overwork yourself. Set boundaries, know your worth, and don’t forget to take care of yourself.”
While Jessica still loves capturing family moments, her focus has started to shift a little. As her own daughter gets older, Jessica finds herself drawn to other types of photography – like senior sessions, commercial style shoots, and event photography. But her most favorite shift? Food + brand photography. Helping small businesses – especially women-owned businesses – tell their story through images has become a huge part of what Jessica loves to do.
“I really enjoy helping other entrepreneurs elevate their brand,” Jessica says. “It’s been so rewarding to see small businesses grow through sharing photography.”
Being able to connect with other local business owners has been one of the highlights as of late. There’s a sense of community in Rochester that Jessica really appreciates, and she’s all about supporting and collaborating with fellow creatives.
Jessica isn’t planning to slow down anytime soon. In fact, she’s already dreamit up a future that includes an industrial-style
space where photography can stay at the forefront, but also serve as a creative hub for other entrepreneurs. Imagine a space where artists, photographers, and all kinds of creatives can come together, share ideas, and collaborate. Sounds pretty amazing, right?
Everyone has their own ritual to get in the right headspace, for a job, and Jessica’s is all about the music. Her go-to? “3 AM” by Matchbox Twenty, with the windows down in her Jeep. For her, that song, or really any other 90’s jam is her favorite way to get in to the zone for a shoot.
From humble beginnings on her front porch to a thriving photography business in downtown Rochester, Jessica Snow has built something pretty special. She’s captured thousands of families, helped small businesses grow, and has remained committed to the things that matter most: authenticity, creativity, and community.
Whether you’re looking for stunning family photos, a brand photoshoot that will take your business to the next level, or just someone to capture the real moments in life, Jessica Snow is the photographer you want behind the lens.
We are so lucky to have her as our resident photographer for this journey we call Rochester City Lifestyle. If you’ve been a part of one of our features or editorials, you’ve had the pleasure of getting to work with Jess. She has brought the pages of this publication to life over the past year, and we know we couldn’t have done it without her.
Studio Em + Lu is located at 205 C South Main Street in Downtown Rochester, and is available by appointment only. Learn more by visiting https://studioemandlu.com or https://jessica-snow.com.
DESIGN WORKS FLOWERS:
MEET NESS, THE VISIONARY DESIGNER BRINGING ARTISTRY AND ELEGANCE TO ROCHESTER’S FLORAL SCENE
ARTICLE BY SHAUNA OLIVERIO PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSICA SNOW PHOTOGRAPHY
Beautifully situated off the scenic Paint Creek Trail in the heart of Downtown Rochester, Design Works Flowers stands as a custom floral boutique, where artistry and nature intertwine in every arrangement. Led by visionary designer and owner Nessrine Saleh, the shop embraces creativity, pushing the boundaries of traditional floral design while staying ahead of trends. With a deeply personal approach, Ness crafts each piece as a work of art, ensuring that every bouquet feels intentional, inspired, and one-of-a-kind. Ness’s love for flowers was rooted in childhood, inspired by her mother’s passion for gardening.
“She would always bring fresh flowers, gardenias, roses, jasmine, and peonies into the house,” Ness recalls. “I just loved walking down in the morning and seeing a vase of fresh flowers on the table every single day.” That early exposure sparked a lifelong love for florals, but it wasn’t until her first job at a grocery store that she realized their impact. “I worked as a bagger, but they had a floral section, and I would always see people walking out so happy, holding a bouquet of flowers. I just loved it” Ness says.
After spending a few years working in the floral section, her passion led her to work in a small, family-owned flower shop, where she honed her craft and found inspiration in the artistry of floral design. “I learned so much from the owners but it was then that I realized my work was worth more, and I knew I wanted to create something of my own.” Coming from a family of business owners, she always had an entrepreneurial spirit. “My mom, and dad are both entrepreneurs, and I knew that at some point, I wanted to have my own business as well.” While Ness once dreamed of blending her love for coffee and flowers, her heart always led her back to floral design. Now, as the owner of Design Works Flowers, she brings that passion to life, curating whimsical, artful arrangements that connect people to the beauty of nature.
“I’m lucky enough to say I love going to work. I love being a florist. I love my job,” Ness says. “Making people happy makes me happy, and I want them to come in and feel like family.” She understands that not everyone knows exactly what they want, but through patience and a thoughtful process, she uncovers their vision. Her commitment to personalization extends beyond the initial design. By keeping detailed notes on each customer’s preferences, she ensures that every visit feels just as special as the first. This meticulous attention to detail, combined with her warm approach, transforms every floral arrangement into a meaningful, tailored experience.
Unlike large-scale florists, Design Works Flowers embraces a boutique philosophy, prioritizing quality over quantity. Flowers are sourced daily in small, hand-selected batches from premium growers in Ecuador, South America, California, and Canada, ensuring that every bloom is as fresh and vibrant as possible.Ness isn’t afraid to push boundaries when it comes to floral design. She believes that flowers should be a true reflection of personality, emotion, and celebration, not confined by tradition or expectation. “Customers come to a boutique floral shop because they’re not looking for generic, they want something unique, fresh, and thoughtfully designed” Ness shares. “People assume weddings should be all white with touches of greenery, but I always tell them, if you love pinks, oranges, and blues, make it colorful! Guests will
remember that,” she shares. This philosophy extends beyond weddings and into all aspects of her work. Whether designing for a joyous occasion or a moment of remembrance, Ness encourages her customers to embrace bold, expressive colors. Her designs are unexpected, unassuming, and deeply personal, each arrangement a piece of art.
Ness has a special passion for creating floral arrangements for weddings, finding joy in the sheer scale and beauty of the flowers involved. “I love weddings because of the amount of flowers we get to work with,” she shares. Whether it’s an intimate ceremony with 15 guests or a grand celebration for 1,000, she thrives on the challenge of making each wedding unique. “There’s a lot of pressure with weddings, it really has to be perfect,” she says. Ness emphasizes the importance of a real connection and trust between a couple and their florist. She takes the time to understand each bride’s unique style, going to great lengths to make sure their florals are a true reflection of who they are.
To give each event her full attention, Ness never double-books weddings. “This ensures every detail is perfect, with the flexibility for last-minute customizations,” she says. One of her favorite tasks is crafting bridal bouquets, and she assures that each one is made on the same day as the wedding, keeping them as fresh and perfect as possible. Design Works Flowers even travels for destination weddings, bringing their bespoke floral designs to
couples wherever their special day takes them. When Ness took over Design Works Flowers, her vision was to modernize the space while making it more personal and engaging for the customers. “I wanted to bring a fresh perspective and create an environment where people felt more connected to the process,” she shares. One of the key changes she implemented was remodeling the shop about a year after taking over. She designed the space to be open and inviting, allowing customers to watch the designers work. This openness lets clients have a hands-on role in their floral arrangements, making it easier for them to give feedback and even adjust their orders if needed. “I thrive under pressure, and I train my designers to work face-to-face with our customers so they can be part of the process,” Ness explains.
Beyond the shop’s new layout, Ness has expanded Design Works Flowers to offer a diverse range of floral designs for all occasions. From stunning prom and homecoming corsages to elegant bridal and baby shower arrangements, she and her team craft the perfect designs for any event. They also specialize in gender reveals, creating balloon arches and custom gender reveal balloons along with weddings, engagements, and corporate parties. For those looking for something interactive, Design Works Flowers offers private workshops in and outside of the shop, where Ness provides all the supplies for a hands-on flower arranging experience, including special workshops for kids as well. The shop also provides flower subscriptions, seasonal bouquets, and custom event
installations featuring breathtaking floral designs. For couples who prefer candlelit ambiance, floating candles and candlesticks are also available. Committed to quality and freshness, Ness ensures a wide selection of daily custom orders, guaranteeing that each arrangement is made with the freshest blooms.
With her vision for a modern, engaging, and personalized approach to floral design, Ness has transformed Design Works Flowers into a truly unique, hands-on, and community-driven business. Ness embodies the essence of a charming, personal flower shop owner who genuinely cares about her community. She’s not just a business owner; she’s a fixture in downtown Rochester, known for her deep connection with the people who walk through her doors. Her boutique flower shop is more than just a place to buy flowers, it’s a local hub where customers can expect personalized service, unique floral designs, and a welcoming atmosphere. Ness values being hands-on, always there, and available to help her customers, whether they’re stopping in for a quick arrangement or designing florals for a luxury wedding. She’s proud of the closeknit relationships she’s built, where people feel like family and trust her to deliver something special. She loves being part of the downtown community, where businesses collaborate and support one another, and her shop is a reflection of that spirit. Her commitment to custom flowers, quick service, and being accessible makes her shop stand out as a place where people not only buy flowers but connect with a local business that truly cares.
DIME STORE: All-Day BRUNCH RESTAURANT
ARTICLE BY SHAUNA OLIVERIO & ANN-MARIE MURPHY PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSICA SNOW PHOTOGRAPHY
Located in the heart of Detroit, Dime Store is more than just a restaurant, it’s a testament to inventive, high-quality brunch and lunch dining. Since its founding in 2014, Dime Store has captivated food lovers with its imaginative menu, welcoming atmosphere, and the passion of its founders. As the restaurant expands into Rochester Hills, our community is fortunate to welcome such a unique and thoughtfully crafted approach to food and hospitality.
Ann-Marie Murphy, one of the founding partners alongside Larry Kahn and Jeff Alexander, shares that the idea for Dime Store was sparked by a simple yet profound moment. Larry, while working at Rocket Mortgage, had a realization that his true passion lay in food rather than sales. This epiphany, combined with the trio’s long-standing friendship and experience in the restaurant industry, set the wheels in motion and the idea of opening a restaurant to hold.
“We met over 25 years ago at Max & Erma’s in Ann Arbor, Larry and Jeff were line cooks, and I was a host and expeditor,” Ann-Marie reminisces. Though their careers diverged for a while, the trio always felt the pull back to the restaurant world and they knew the longevity of their friendship would create a strong foundation that would be the key to their founding Dime Stores success.
“OUR FOCUS HAS ALWAYS BEEN ON THE FOOD. WITHOUT GREAT FOOD, A RESTAURANT WON’T LAST, SO WE’VE consistently refined OUR DISHES, SOURCED THE BEST INGREDIENTS, AND PUSHED creative boundaries WITH OUR CHEF’S SPECIALS” SAYS ANN-MARIE.
From the beginning, the Dime Stores team has been packed with culinary talent. Executive Chef Josh Taylor and George Sleator, both classically trained chefs, have played an integral role in shaping the restaurant’s identity since day one. Chef Aris Nueva Espana, who now leads the Rochester Hills kitchen, was also part of that early foundation. “This depth of talent was crucial because we set out to do something different, elevating breakfast, brunch, and lunch by bringing fine-dining techniques into a casual setting” shares Ann-Marie. From their signature Duck Bop Hash to their indulgent Cheesesteak Benny, or the famous General Tso’s Benny, every dish is a work of art, that is made from scratch with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. “Our focus has always been on the food. Without great food, a restaurant won’t last, so we’ve consistently refined our dishes, sourced the best ingredients, and pushed creative boundaries with our chef’s specials” says Ann-Marie.
But as much as the innovative dishes sets the restaurant apart, it’s the people who truly make Dime Store special. “Our team is friendly, fun, and genuinely engaged with our guests. They’re the kind of people who will sit down and commiserate about your day, recommend the best things to do in Detroit or Rochester Hills, and remember your go-to order” says Ann-Marie. “That personal connection, combined with incredible food, is what keeps guests coming back, it’s not just a meal, it’s an experience” she says. The staff fosters an energy that’s both vibrant and welcoming. As Ann-Marie puts it, “When a team is happy, that feeling is contagious and Jeff and Larry have been instrumental in fostering a culture that feels like home” shares Ann Marie
Dime Store is full of subtle nods to Detroit’s past woven into the dining experience. The restaurant’s name pays homage to the historic Dime Savings Bank Building, one of the city’s oldest skyscrapers, built in 1912, where the original Detroit location resides. It is also a tribute to the classic ‘dime stores’, Five and Dimes, that were popular in the mid-20th-century America including Detroit.
Look around, and you’ll spot unique design elements that incorporate mid century touches like 1960’s-style swag globe lamps, antique coffee urns and vintage milkshake machines. “Another fun detail is our hand-painted murals! Many guests can’t quite place them, but they were inspired by the Mercury Dime, which was in circulation in the first half of the 20th century. Look closely, and you’ll spot both the head of the dime “Winged Liberty” and the tail, featuring an olive branch” shares Ann-Marie. These details blend nostalgia with modern flair, giving the Dime Store its distinctive character.
Dime Store’s unique take on brunch is in high demand in Detroit and is practically busting at the seams, leading to the decision to expand to Rochester Hills. But this adventure wasn’t just about growth, it was about finding
the right people to carry the restaurant’s culture forward. Enter George Sleator and Mitch Freem, owners and operators of Dime Store in Rochester Hills.
George, a seasoned and classically trained chef, began his culinary journey at age 14 in Ann Arbor bussing tables and later trained at the prestigious Stratford Chefs School in Ontario, working alongside talented chefs and local artisans from the Niagara region. With experience at renowned establishments like Avalon Bakery and an international stage in Slovakia, he honed his skills in baking, production, and fine dining. As a founding team member of Detroit’s beloved Dime Store, George played a key role in shaping its success, and now, he brings that same passion and expertise to the Rochester Hills location, ensuring every guest enjoys a welcoming and delicious brunch experience.
Mitch grew up in a food-eclectic area of Orange County California but his journey to Dime Store was a bit more unconventional. He spent a few years in Arizona training to achieve his dream of becoming an airline pilot that led to five years flying planes for a handful of airlines. As this became unfulfilling to him, Mitch spent a couple of years running an Aerial drone photography business and then found his way to Michigan to pursue real estate and flip houses, before he finally found his passion in the kitchen. What started as a way to learn how to cook turned into a full-fledged career at Dime Store, where he worked his way up from grill cook to General Manager. “Dime Store was ready to expand to more locations and needed extra hands to make it happen. I was ready to help, and voilà—Dime Store Rochester was born, and I finally found my happiness” Mitch shares.
Together, George and Mitch bring a unique synergy to Dime Store Rochester, blending precision, creativity, and a deep love for hospitality. Their diverse backgrounds and shared commitment to excellence create an experience that goes beyond just great food, it’s about community, warmth, and the joy of a perfectly crafted meal. With their leadership, Dime Store Rochester has quickly
“THAT PERSONAL CONNECTION, combined WITH INCREDIBLE FOOD, IS WHAT KEEPS guests COMING BACK, IT’S NOT JUST a meal , IT’S AN EXPERIENCE” SHE SAYS.
become more than just a brunch spot; it’s a place where passion meets purpose, and every guest feels at home.
As for what’s next, the team is keeping its options open while staying committed to quality over quantity. “We’ve talked about opening more locations, but right now, we’re focused on gaining more experience in Rochester Hills,” says Ann-Marie. “Expansion is always a possibility but we’re being intentional about when and where we take that next step.”
“That said, we do have another new food concept in the works in Downtown Detroit and while it is too early to share details, we are excited about what is ahead and hope to have more to announce soon” shares Ann-Marie.
For now, Dime Store remains a mustvisit destination for brunch lovers, offering an experience that’s as rich in history as it is in flavor. Whether in Detroit or Rochester Hills, one thing is certain: every meal at Dime Store is crafted with passion, creativity, and a deep love for good food.
The new 4,000 square foot Rochester Hills location not only offers a high-quality menu but also allows for larger gatherings and expanded catering services.
GRILLED Salmon SALAD
ARTICLE BY SHAUNA OLIVERIO PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSICA SNOW PHOTOGRAPHY
directions:
Step 1. Make the vinaigrette: Whisk together sherry vinegar, shallots, sugar, lemon zest, olive oil, and salt. Store in a sealed container and shake well before using. This can be made in advance.
Step 2. Prepare the salad: Arrange mixed greens, radishes, cucumbers, red onions, cherry tomatoes, and sunflower seeds on a plate. Hold until salmon is ready.
Step 3. Season & grill the salmon: Lightly coat both sides of the salmon with oil, then season with salt and pepper.
Step 4. Grill the salmon: Heat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Place the salmon skin side up and grill for 3-4 minutes (it will naturally release from the grill when ready to flip).
Step 5. Finish cooking: Flip the salmon and grill for another 2-3 minutes, until it’s about 75% cooked through.
Step 6. Glaze & broil: Remove salmon from the grill and place under a broiler (or in a hot oven) with a generous amount of maple-mustard glaze. Broil until the glaze bubbles and caramelizes.
Step 7. Assemble & serve: Place the glazed salmon on top of the prepared salad. Drizzle with sherry vinaigrette and serve immediately.
MAPLE-MUSTARD GLAZED GRILLED SALMON WITH MIXED GREENS & AGED SHERRY VINAIGRETTE
A true Dime Store classic, this dish has been a staple on our menu since day one, and for good reason. The maple-mustard glaze offers a subtle nod to breakfast, while crisp greens and a bright sherry vinaigrette make it a perfect choice for lunch. "More than just a crowd favorite, it’s also a family favorite, so much so that my mom, our most loyal Rochester Hills customer, has made it clear that taking it off the menu isn’t an option!" shares Ann-Marie Murphy. Featuring sustainably raised salmon from Motor City Seafood in Highland Park, MI, sourced from the pristine waters off the coast of Chile, free of hormones and antibiotics, this dish is as flavorful as it is responsibly crafted. Tender, lean, and packed with bold yet balanced flavors, it perfectly embodies what Dime Store is all about: creative, high-quality food that surprises and delights with every bite.
ingredients:
For the Salad:
• 6 oz salmon fillet, skin removed
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp oil (for grilling)
• 2 cups mixed greens
• 2 radishes, thinly sliced
• ¼ cucumber, thinly sliced
• ¼ red onion, thinly sliced
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 tbsp sunflower seeds
For the Maple-Mustard Glaze:
• ¾ cup Michigan maple syrup
• 1 tbsp whole grain mustard
• 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
For the Sherry Vinaigrette:
• ¼ cup sherry vinegar
• 2 tsp shallots, minced
• 1 tbsp sugar
• Zest of ⅛ of a lemon
• ½ cup olive oil
• ¼ tsp salt
Thoughtful gifts and experiences to show your love this Mother’s Day
A Gift As Special As She Is
This Mother’s Day, give a gift as special as she is—a thoughtful gesture that truly reflects your love and appreciation. Whether it’s a rejuvenating wellness experience, a meaningful activity to enjoy together, or a bouquet of fresh, vibrant blooms, Rochester’s local businesses have everything you need to make her day unforgettable.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSICA SNOW PHOTOGRAPHY
barre3 Complimentary Class for Dynamic Duos
Join us at barre3 this Mother’s Day weekend for a special complimentary class designed for all the dynamic duos out there—mothers and daughters, sisters, best friends, or any two women who inspire and support each other. Move with strength, balance, and connection in an empowering workout that meets you where you are—no experience needed. This is your time to breathe, move, and celebrate the power of connection.
Email the studio to RSVP - rochesterhillsmi@barre3.com
The Perfect Bouquet for Her
Make this Mother’s Day unforgettable with the perfect bouquet from Design Works Flowers, your custom boutique florist in Downtown Rochester. Thoughtfully arranged with fresh, vibrant blooms, each design is crafted to reflect beauty, elegance, and love, just like her. Design Works Flowers will be open on Sunday, May 11, for Mother’s Day.
Visit designworksflowers.com or call 248-656-2266 to order a stunning arrangement she will love!
A Gift Card for her from The Spa MD
This Mother’s Day, treat her to the ultimate self-care experience with a gift card from The Spa MD. Spa MD offers a range of rejuvenating facial treatments and skincare services designed to pamper and revitalize.
Purchasing a gift card is easy. Visit their website at plasticsurgeryarts.com and navigate to the gift card section. Choose the desired amount, complete your purchase, and you’ll have a thoughtful gift ready to surprise her.
Give her the gift of glowing skin and a moment of tranquility this Mother’s Day with The Spa MD.
events
MAY 3RD
Downtown Rochester Farmers Market
E. Third & Water | 8:00 AM
Celebrate the start of the 2025 Downtown Rochester Farmers' Market season on Saturday, May 3rd! Located at E. Third & Water Street, the market runs Saturdays, 8 AM–1 PM, May–October, offering fresh produce, baked goods, flowers, and more. Support local farmers and enjoy the best of Rochester’s community spirit! For more information visit downtownrochestermi.com
MAY 3RD
Sponge Live at The Roxy
401 Walnut Blvd | 8:00 PM
Get ready, Rochester! Sponge, the legendary Detroit alt-rock band, is hitting The Roxy Stage on Saturday, May 3rd, at 8 PM. Experience their iconic hits like Plowed and Molly (16 Candles) live! Don’t miss this electrifying night of rock. Grab your tickets now and feel the energy of Sponge in action! To purchase tickets theroxyrochester.com or call 248-453-5285
MAY 9TH
Paint a Miracle’s Annual Spring Luncheon
Royal Park Hotel 600 E University Dr | 11:30 AM
Join us for Paint a Miracle’s Annual Spring Luncheon at the Royal Park Hotel on Friday, May 9, 2025 11:30am-1:30pm. Shop stunning, one-of-a-kind artwork, enjoy lunch, and support art programs for individuals with disabilities. Silent auction, raffle, and more! Get your tickets at paintamiracle2.cbo.io and be part of something truly meaningful!
MAY 10TH
GRIT & GRIND
Bloomer Park 345 John R Rd
Grit and Grind is an intense rock/run race where teams compete to finish a rugged course as fast as possible. Covering 5-10 miles, the course includes fitness challenges, weight requirements based on division, and marked trails. Teams must carry their own supplies, with rucking options available. Registration opens soon—visit lexartisevents.com for details!
MAY 11TH
Stoney Creek Metro Park Annual Walk-A-Mom Event
Stoney Creek Metro Park | 10:00 AM
Celebrate Mother’s Day with a Walk-A-Mom adventure at Stoney Creek Metro Park. Stroll a scenic trail with your mom, grandma, or special role model, enjoy blooming wildflowers, and create lasting memories. Stop by the Nature Center to receive a Walk-A-Mom certificate and a flower to plant at home. All ages welcome, no registration required!
MAY 15TH - 16TH
Deck Art 2025
Downtown Rochester | 5:00 PM
Unleash Your Creativity!
Join us for the 15th Annual Deck Art in Downtown Rochester on May 15 & 16, 5–9 PM! Artists of all ages transform blank skateboard decks into stunning works of art, displayed in 50+ local businesses. Register at South Street Skateshop! Showcase, compete, and sell your masterpiece!
Experience luxury and personalized treatments at our Rochester/Rochester Hills trusted Medical Spa for over 25 years
A sampling of our menu includes: wrinkle relaxers, skin fillers, non-surgical fat removal, muscle toning and skin rejuvenation treatments. Our team of medical professionals is passionate about making your aesthetic goals come to life!
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMY SALVAGNO
Elevated Cocktail for Brunch Beyond &
A Fun Spirit To Spoil Mom With This Mother’s Day
Whether Mom prefers to dine reclining pillow-side in pajamas or beside a beautifully dressed table, she’ll appreciate an elegant, elevated cocktail to make her brunch menu extra special. So while she’s indulging in a few extra pieces of bacon, savoring bites of flaky quiche and luxuriating over berry and whipped creamtopped pancakes, impress her with this morning-friendly mix.
Gin & Jam
A simple ingredient drink unites the botanical complexity of gin with the rich sweetness of your favorite jam.
Ingredients:
• 2 ounces gin
• 1 ounce lemon juice
• 1/2 ounce simple syrup
• 1 teaspoon raspberry (or your favorite) jam
• Spoonful of jam for garnish
Instructions:
1. Add the gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and jam to your mixing glass.
2. Add ice and shake for 10 seconds.
3. Strain into a double old-fashioned glass over crushed ice.
4. Top with a spoonful of jam and stir it in while you sip.
We bring modern Pilates and physical therapy together to help you find strength, alignment, and transformative movement for daily life Our supportive community is here to help you live your best life in your best body, specializing in injury rehabilitation, athletic training, and overall wellness
