Everything Men Fall/Winter 2025 by Marlanea McGraw

from the publisher

Marlanea McGraw Owner/Publisher

We all know what fall is for, right? FOOTBALL! I’m a hardcore Lions fan, and I keep cheering them on, no matter what.

In this issue we introduce you to Joel Gresham, a man who has built an empire by helping couples to have the weddings of their dreams. You can read about all the services he offers and how he approaches making those dreams come true.

We have our regular features like a car spotlight, the “Bragging Rights” photos for the best catches of the summer, and Let’s Ride!

We hope that you will take some time to browse the ads along with the articles, as it is our faithful advertisers who keep this publication going. (THANK YOU to all of them!)

Wishing you a great fall and winter, whether you’ll be in the woods for a fall hunt, cheering on a favorite team, or just hunkering down for the winter months.

-Marlanea

EVERYTHING MEN STAFF

EDITOR

Melissa McCance

SALES

Kristal Johnson

Hannah Sayles

Sherry Sheffer

Cyndi Young

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Dakota Harding

PHOTOGRAPHY

Lucky Owl Photography

Synergy in Motion Studios

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Laura Loveberry

Elyse Apel

FOR INFORMATION on how to submit story ideas, concerns, or information on how to advertise, please contact Marlanea McGraw at (517)320-9235 or email sales@simplyhers.net. Everything Men Magazine makes every effort to provide accurate information in advertising and editorial content, however, does not make any claims as to accuracy of information provided by advertisers or editorial contributors and accepts no responsibility or liability for inaccurate information.

Whether you prefer to stay indoors or outdoors, we have the right products and expertise to get your project done right. DECKING

A special thank you to our ADVERTISERS

3DPT - 39

Arrow Swift Printing - 19

Becker & Scrivens - 12

Belson Asphalt - 9

Bildner & Donahue - 20

Breathe Free Duct Cleaning - 37 CASA -13

County of Hillsdale .....

Veterans Services - 17

Cottage Inn Pizza - 40

D&D Heating & Cooling - 13

D-P Equipment Co., Inc - 13

dyAGnostic Service & Solutions - 35

Eagle Funeral Homes - 5

El Cerrito Mexican Restaurant - 5

Farm Bureau Insurance .....

McGraw Agency - 22

Fether Archery - 35

Gateway Renovations, LLC - 39

Green Energy LP - 2

Griffiths Mechanical - 37

HD Mechanical LLC - 13

Helping Hands Preschool & Childcare - 19

Hillsdale County Community Foundation - 19

Hillsdale College Halter Shooting

Sports Education Center - 23

Hillsdale Hospital - 34

Hospice of Hillsdale County - 21

Irish Hills Firearm Outfitters - 31

Jilly Beans - 13

Jonesville Lumber - 6

Kelly’s Furniture - 17

Lifeways - 21

Lorrie Miller Law - 21

Parney’s Car Care - 31

Powers Clothing - 9

PRIME Fitness - 15

Pub & Grub - 7

Pleasant View Beef - 21

RS Custom Exhaust LLC - 9

Ryan & Bradshaw - 12

State Farm, Jason Adock - 2

Stillwell Ford - 3

The Sauk - 17

The Truck Shop - 2

Meet The Wedding Guy

Story by Elyse Apel

Joel Gresham

Joel Gresham never set out to become known as “The Wedding Guy.”

But, with over three decades of shaping unforgettable celebrations, building thriving businesses, and mentoring the next generation of wedding professionals, the title has become impossible to deny.

“I didn’t plan this,” Joel admits with a smile. “But here we are, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.”

A Visionary in the Wedding World

What began in 1989 as a small DJ company has evolved into one of Michigan’s most trusted wedding empires. From Mid Michigan Entertainment—once producing over 550 events a year—to destination wedding planning through Sandals Resorts, Joel has built a reputation as the go-to expert for couples who want it all.

Today, his reach extends far beyond music. His companies now provide DJs, photo booths, bartending, officiants, and travel services—all designed to make every couple’s wedding seamless from start to finish.

The Irish Chapel: His Latest Masterpiece

Joel’s newest passion project is the Irish Chapel, a breathtaking open-air wedding chapel nestled on 70 acres in the Irish Hills. Overlooking a serene pond and surrounded by private countryside, the chapel blends modern design with timeless elegance.

“It’s like nothing most people have ever seen before,” Joel says. “It’s brand new, it’s private, and it creates an unforgettable backdrop for couples’ vows.”

Inspired by a historic Virginia church he once discovered with his son, Joel brought the vision home—on a grander scale. Within weeks of its completion, he and his wife Lilly became the first couple to marry there, making the chapel deeply personal as well as iconic.

And he isn’t stopping there. Designing is already underway on a second reception venue—designed to complement the modern feel of the Irish Chapel. Couples will soon have the choice between rustic charm or modern elegance, both crafted under Joel’s expert eye.

A Nationally Recognized Authority

Joel’s influence extends well beyond Michigan. He has spoken at national conventions, headlined as DJ at the World of Weddings conference in the Bahamas, and runs the Mid Michigan Bridal Expo with shows in Jackson, Adrian, and Ann Arbor.

Through The Wedding Guy Blog and his TikTok account, he shares insider tips, vendor advice, and fresh ideas with thousands of readers. He also mentors other professionals through webinars and is currently writing a book to help wedding vendors thrive.

“I’m always learning,” Joel explains. “I attend multiple DJ, wedding, vendor, and venue owners conventions every year. Trends change fast, and my job is to stay ahead of them so my couples always get the very best.”

A Personal Touch That Sets Him Apart

Despite his company handling over 10,000 events, and personally managing over a thousand in his 35 years, Joel insists his most important role is connecting with couples on a personal level.

“When you book with me, you get my personal cell phone number,” he says. “I’m not just there at the booking process and I don’t just show up on your wedding day. I’m there with you throughout the planning process, making sure every detail comes together. This is my passion—and it’s a blessing to be part of people’s best memories.”

For Joel, “The Wedding Guy” isn’t just a nickname. It’s a legacy built on dedication, creativity, and love for an industry he calls home.

To book with Mid Michigan Entertainment or explore the Irish Hills venues, visit weddingguy.com or call 1-855-GET-A-DJ. Or follow him on TikTok at: @WeddingAndTravelGuy @IrishHillsWeddings

Starting an exercise routine can be really empowering, and the best approach depends on your goals, fitness level, and what you enjoy. Here’s a breakdown of solid ways for men to begin exercising:

1. Start with the Basics: Walking or Jogging

Why: It’s low-impact and can be done anywhere. Walking or light jogging builds endurance and is a great way to

4. Compound Movements

Why: Compound exercises (like deadlifts, squats, bench press, and overhead press) engage multiple muscle groups, offering more efficient workouts.

How: Start with light weights or machines and focus on mastering the form. Once you’re comfortable, you can progressively increase weight.

5. Mix Cardio with Strength Training

: Combining both will help you build muscle, burn fat, and improve cardiovascular health.

: You can alternate between strength workouts and cardio sessions throughout the week (e.g., Monday: Strength, Tuesday: Cardio, Wednesday: Rest, etc.).

6. Start Slowly and Build Gradually

: Overdoing it at the start can lead to

: Begin with shorter, less intense workouts and increase the duration and intensity as your body adapts. Aim for consistency over intensity in the early

7. Track Your Progress

Why: Tracking gives you a sense of accomplishment and can help you stay motivated.

How: Use a fitness app, journal, or even simple notes to track workouts, sets, reps, and weights.

8. Get Enough Rest and Recovery

Why: Your muscles need time to recover and grow. Rest is just as important as the workouts.

How: Get 7–8 hours of sleep per night and avoid working the same muscle groups two days in a row.

9. Find a Routine You Enjoy

Why: You’ll stick with exercise longer if it’s something you find fun.

How: Try different types of exercise until you find something you enjoy. Whether it’s sports, lifting, running, or swimming—find something that excites you.

10. Consider Hiring a Trainer (If Possible)

Why: A trainer can teach you proper form, create a personalized routine, and keep you accountable.

How: If you can, work with a trainer at least a few times to help you build a good foundation.

Other Tips for Motivation:

Set Realistic Goals: Start with attainable targets like “work out three times per week” and gradually increase them.

Workout Buddy: Having a friend to exercise with can make it more enjoyable and hold you accountable.

Celebrate Small Wins: Whether it’s lifting heavier weights or just sticking to your routine, take time to acknowledge your progress.

What kind of exercise interests you the most? Would you prefer strength training, cardio, or something more flexibility-based like yoga?

COUNTY OF HILLSDALE VETERANS SERVICES

Do you want a life of complete ease, without stress or trouble? Yes. Yes, I do. Sign me up.

Scientists built a dome-like structure, creating a “perfect” environment for trees and plants to flourish. This man-made biosphere served as a model habitat design for future space projects. It eliminated all stress for forests to flourish. No high winds. No storms. No trauma. In the protected area, the trees grew up straight and tall. The researchers smiled smugly.

All appeared idyllic under the dome . . . until KERPLOP!

Tree after tall tree plummeted down, crashing to the ground. Plop! Plop! Plop! The scientists furrowed their eyebrows, scratching their heads at the failed experiment. The trees simply collapsed, one by one, under their own weight.

Who knew?

Wind and strain play a crucial role in developing “stress wood.” Trees require the pressure of wind to develop density and durability. This discovery popped open the eyes of researchers to the need to build resilience. The missing wind element mattered.

It opened our eyes, too.

We need trials and stress to build our strength of character, growing our ability to handle storms. God advises us, “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in noting,” (James 1:2-4 ESV).

We plop under pressure without endurance training, without trials, without hard seasons. God prepares you and me to handle hardships by weathering the storms. We do not live in a protected biosphere . . . and that’s good.

Do we want a life of complete ease, without stress or trouble? Nope. It will crush us.

I hate to burst our bubble, but we do not want a life of artificial comfort without trouble. No. It’s better to develop fortitude and fight, trusting God’s design to build our perseverance. Clench your teeth, grasp God’s hand, endure the plan.

We develop strength in our struggles, avoiding the drop, plop, flop.

IRA Rollover

To support the charities you care about most!

• At 59 1/2, you can itemize your gift as a charitable deduction.

• At 70 1/2, your gift is tax-free up to $105,000.

• Once you are 73 or older, your gift can count towards your required minimum distribution.

info@abouthccf.org www.abouthccf.org (517) 439-5101

When protecting what matters most—right here at home, the

As the proud owner of a local Farm Bureau Insurance agency, I’m honored to serve the families, farmers, and businesses that make our Michigan community so special. Farm Bureau is more than just an insurance company—it’s Michigan-born and Michigan-strong, built on the values of hard work, trust, and genuine connection.

Here at my agency, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all policies. We take the time to get to know you, your story, and your needs—because protecting your home, your livelihood, and your future should feel personal.

Whether you’re looking for home, auto, life, or business coverage, I’d love the chance to sit down and see how we can help. My door is always open, and in a world full of big-box options, it never hurts to check in with someone who knows your neighborhood—and truly cares.

PET-FRIENDLY TRAILS TO EXPLORE in Michigan

Michigan has endless trails just waiting to be explored—but hiking is much more fun when you can bring your four-legged friend along. Some of Michigan’s pet-fluencers are here to recommend their favorite spots across the state. So, leash-up your pet, lace up your hiking boots and hit the trail.

During your visit, make sure you abide by all laws and regulations regarding traveling with your pet, including having the proper permits and always cleaning up after your pet. Check out these six trails for your next pet-friendly adventure:

1. Wetmore Landing – Marquette

Take a windy drive up Marquette’s scenic 550 to arrive at Wetmore Landing. Before you head down the trail, grab your bug spray, water, good hiking shoes, doggo leash and camera! Follow the trail (marked with blue rectangles on the

trees) to the water and take a left before you hit the beach. If it’s a gorgeous day, take a dip at the beach on the way out! Keep following those blue rectangles and prepare for exciting and ever-changing terrain: roots, rocks, boulders, bridges, rolling hills and very steep steps. If you need a rest, there’s a sitting area part of the way up the trail. Then you’ll discover amazing clifftop views and the one-and-only Lake Superior stretching as far as your eyes can see until the water kisses the sky.

Wetmore Landing is a junction for the North Country Trail.

The NCT travels more than 1,100 miles in Michigan. One of our favorite slices of this incredible trail is the small section between Wetmore Landing and Little Presque Isle. You can hike it with a partner and park a car at each entrance, or plan for a 7.2-mile roundtrip. Or, hike what you can and turn around when you must—there’s no wrong way to enjoy it. Stop at Phil’s 550 on your way out and grab a sweet treat . . . you deserve it!

Brooke

Shepard & Tok (@TokTheBlue)

2. Sleepy Hollow State Park – Laingsburg

In Mid-Michigan, we like to hike at places that have wooded trails and water access, and Sleepy Hollow State Park has a great mix of both! There are 16 miles of hiking trails to explore, including an area on the west side of Lake Ovid that crosses a

The Wild Goldens— Barley, Moe and Cassie—at Lumberman’s Monument | Photo Courtesy of Rachel Jezowski

Tok the Blue Heeler at Wetmore Landing | Photo courtesy of Brooke Shepard

small footbridge to an island. When we’re not hiking the trails, we like to launch our kayaks from the southwest parking area and paddle around the islands—and sometimes Mason swims next to us. Sleepy Hollow is also home to popular equine trails that occasionally cross and share paths with the hiking trails, so it’s important to stay aware of the kind of trail you’re on. It also helps if your dog has had some exposure to horses before visiting, just in case!

Drew Mason & Mason the Mitten Mutt (@ themittenmutt)

3. Lumberman’s Monument – Oscodai

If you enjoy great views while hiking, Lumberman’s Monument Trail has just that! Located in Hale and not far from Mid-Michigan, it is easily accessible with true up-north vibes. This trail has a great mix of stunning overlooks of the Au Sable River and gorgeous pine forests to trek through for the majority of the 3.8-mile trail. We usually end our hike by dashing down the towering sand dune at full speed and getting a quick swim in the clear water of the Au Sable. This is one of our favorite spots in Michigan and we hope you love it as much as we do!

Rachel Jezowski & Barley, Moe, and Cassie (@wildgoldens)

4. Timbers Recreation Area – Traverse City

Traverse City is a top travel destination, so it’s nice to find hidden gems in the area to enjoy during your visit. Located on Long Lake, just a short drive from downtown, you find Timbers Recreation Area. On this two-mile trail you encounter two lakes and a swamp while walking through pine and deciduous forests. Both lakes have entry points for you and your dog if you visit in the summer for a quick dip! In the fall you will get a show of vibrant colors and crunch on fallen leaves. On a peaceful winter day, trees will be pulled down with freshly fallen snow and you can search for tracks left by the forest’s inhabitants. In spring you can see trilliums pushing their way through the earth decorating the forest floor. This recreation is a great escape from the lively downtown of Traverse City.

Taylor Featherstone & Darwin (@ ourevolvingadventure)

5. Provin

Located just outside of Grand Rapids is Provin Trails, one of our favorite places to explore! Being only 10 to 15 minutes from downtown, the deep forest feel provides a great escape from the city. Ace usually likes to hike the perimeter trail, which is about a mile long and has some good hills to climb, and he is always sure to lead the way! It is common for us to do several laps around the park, but there are also plenty of side trails to explore as well. In addition, the center of the park contains a secret sand dune, and Ace loves the chance to climb and explore the unique natural feature. The top of this hidden gem is easily accessible from the entrance to the trails, and it is the perfect place to relax and watch the beautiful Michigan sunset.

Joseph Fifer & Ace (@theaceadventurer)

6. Maybury State Park – Northville

We discovered Maybury State Park when we got our puppy because we were looking for a place to hike and run together. Since then, we have visited this amazing park during all seasons and each one has a great experience to offer. You can go cross-skiing during wintertime do some fishing during spring; run, bike and have a BBQ in summer; and enjoy the amazing hikes and all the colors of the leaves during fall. There are even an equestrian trail and a designated mountain bike area trail.

Winter the Pomsky at Maybury

State Park | Photo Courtesy of Martha Hernandez

There’s more to do than trekking trails at Maybury State Park, too. Every year they host a pet-friendly movie night during summer. Last year Winter loved the movie and started to howl in the middle of it with all the kids. Also, May 2020 marks the park’s 45th birthday!

Martha Hernandez & Winter (@winterpomsky)

To learn more about how to enjoy the outdoors with your pet in Michigan, visit michigan.gov/dnr.

Ace the Cat at the Provin Trails | Photo Courtesy of Joseph Fifer

GIFTS

YOU DIDN’T

KNOW YOU NEEDED

The best gifts & gadgets for men are captivating, purposeful, and unique! If you’re after a special new toy, the following selection of interesting gadgets is for you. We’ve chosen highlypractical gadgets for everyday use, those for fun and entertainment, and even some quirky and intriguing items you never knew existed!

PERSONALIZED & UNIQUE

Personalized 3D Wooden Map

A striking keepsake — a 3D wooden map of a special place (a city, lake, etc.).

Custom Watch Display Box

For someone with a few watches: this display/ storage box helps organize and showcase them, with personalization.

Laser‑Engraved Can Coolers

Great for outdoorsy or casual BBQ / tailgating type guys. Keeps drinks cold + adds a personalized touch.

Engraved Whiskey Decanter Set

Elegant barware. This decanter + glass set with engraving is excellent if you enjoy whiskey or want something nice for entertaining.

Engraved Whistle

Perfect for coaches or anyone who helps run drills; practical + meaningful.

Mini Camouflage Backpack

Sturdy personalized small backpack in camo. Good for day trips, hiking, or as utility bag.

SCAN QR CODES

with smartphone camera to view online

For the Ford family, “Old Gray” isn’t just the color of the family truck, it’s an affectionate name for a family heirloom.

It all started with Bryan Ford’s dad.

“When I was a young boy, my dad was a hobby mechanic,” Byran says. “He bought and sold cars, after fixing them up.”

Bryan grew up watching his dad work on these projects, even joining him on them at a very young age.

“One of my earliest memories is being in the garage cleaning engine parts in a bucket of gasoline. That’s how they used to do it back in the day,” Bryan laughs. “Of course, today that would be considered dangerous but that’s just how things were when I was a kid.”

That was the start of Bryan’s own love for cars, which eventually turned into him opening up his own repair shop right outside of Hillsdale: Advanced Autometric LLC, which he co-owns with his wife, Lisa.

“My inspiration goes back to hanging out in the garage with my dad,” Bryan says.

The year Bryan was born, his dad bought a 1953 Ford F-100 pickup. That pickup became affectionately known as Old Gray.

“It was a truck that he took around to different parades and events around the county,” Bryan says. “All my older siblings, cousins, and family members have a lot of memories of my dad with that truck.”

In 1985, when Bryan was six, the garage the truck was stored in caught on fire and burned up the truck. Bryan’s dad didn’t give up on it though, instead deciding to fix it up once again.

“One day, my dad came and surprised me by picking me up from school. We took a trip to Toledo that day and bought a Ford Thunderbird, which we brought home and took the engine and transmission and drive train out of it to use for the rebuild of the truck,” Bryan explains. “At just 15, that was the first engine I ever rebuilt on my own. It was eventually the engine that we used for that truck.”

Bryan and his dad hoped to have Old Gray rebuilt in time for him to drive to his senior prom, but that didn’t end up happening.

“In the midst of that, my father unexpectedly passed away in 1996 at the end of my junior year of high school,” Bryan says.

“I wanted to pay homage to my dad and the skills he taught me,” Bryan explains. “He would have loved the style I went with this time: a modern twist on a classic.”

He stayed motivated to finish the truck though.

“I buckled down and with some help from a friend of mine named Zeke, we worked really hard on it and got it done,” Bryan says.

Over the years, Old Gray has been emblematic of the seasons of Bryan’s own life.

“It’s funny, my dad wanted to paint it gray again, but I wanted to make it modern and more hot rod-y,” Bryan says, laughing. “I painted it a color called brilliant blue and put some shiny aluminum wheels on it. When I look at pictures of it now, you can definitely tell that I was a 1990’s kid looking at a lot of hot rod magazines.”

Bryan drove that version of the truck for a number of years.

“I had a blast in it,” Byran says. “It was ultimately a reflection of its owner: a little bit rude, crude and socially unacceptable at the time.”

Around 15 years ago, Bryan decided it was time to rebuild Old Gray for a third time.

“Over the years as a mechanic, I had gained a lot of skills and so I wanted to showcase some of my fabrications and mechanical skills in a new rebuild,” Bryan says.

This time, he stripped the frame to its frame rails and rebuilt it with all modern suspension and braking. Building it with performance in mind, Bryan added modern fuel injection. Yet, during this rebuild of Old Gray, he wanted to work on maintaining the classic aspects of the 1953 Ford F-100 pickup.

For the Ford family though, it’s always just been Old Gray.

“Even when it was bright blue, everyone still called it Old Gray. This time, I painted it a dark gray,” Bryan says. “My sisters remember riding in the truck when my dad had it and they make the comment now that it wasn’t nearly as fast then as it is now.”

Bryan

spent 15 years working on the rebuild.

“It’s a hot rod project, so it’s never done,” Bryan laughs. “I’m already contemplating the next engine rebuild.”

In the meantime, though, his family has enjoyed getting to make new memories with the truck, putting over 4,000 miles on it the past two summers. It all came full circle when Bryan’s nephew got to drive the truck to his prom, Bryan explains.

“It’s been a blast to get to share it with my family again.”

IN STYLE...

New models. New features. Same passion.

CAN‑AM OUTLANDER XT / 1000R (OR 850)

The Outlander XT 850/1000R brings powerful V-Twin engines, multiple drive modes (Work / Sport / Standard), excellent towing (≈1830 lbs), strong utility features and serious capability in rough terrain.

If you want a machine that does work and play — heavy trails, hauling, even mud runs. Downsides: high price, heavier weight.

YAMAHA GRIZZLY 700 EPS XT‑R

A long capability. With EPS (power steering), upgraded tires/suspension in XT

Good mid the biggest

POLARIS 850 INDY VR1 DYNAMIX

Named 2025 Snowmobile of the Year. The standout here is the Dynamix Active Suspension System, which uses an IMU (sensing box) plus shock conditions — bumps, corners, air, etc. It gives a much smoother, more

Fast trail riders who want supreme comfort, stability, especially over mixed/rough terrain. Great if you ride a lot of miles.

Age 9

1st Deer Hillsdale County

Chad Copp & Dan Ryan

Wilbur Yoder

Miles Foust

Nixon Foust

Ryan & Trenten Fitton

NEED MEDICAID?

3 Ways to Sign up for Healthcare Coverage

1. ONLINE

Get auto-approved for Medicaid coverage when you sign up online! Visit newmibridges.michigan.gov or scan the QR code to get started.

2. IN PERSON

newmibridges.michigan.gov

Visit Hillsdale Hospital for one-on-one support as you sign up for healthcare coverage. Our Medicaid Specialist is here to help! You can visit her office on the ground floor of the hospital or call (517) 437-1723.

3. BY MAIL

To mail in your Medicaid application, print one at michigan.gov/medicaid or pick one up at Hillsdale Hospital, 168 S. Howell St., Hillsdale, or the local MDHHS office, 40 Care Drive, Hillsdale. Once you’ve completed your application, mail it to the following address. Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Health Insurance Affordability Program PO Box 8123 Royal Oak, MI 48068-9985

Macaroni & Cheese Macaroni & Cheese

Great macaroni and cheese can become incredible with the right add-ins. Whether you want to make it more savory, spicy, hearty, or gourmet, here are some of the best categories and specific add-ins to elevate your mac and cheese.