Blog / Kathryn Slater
We’re Mad for Maple
Red Bucket Sugar Shack
Photo by Lynne Graves
As the last of the snow starts to melt, we’re all mad for maple, and seeking our fix.
Warm Up to Winter in Western Mass
Atrium at The Hotel Northampton
Photo by Lynne Graves
In Western Massachusetts, we love winter. And we’re almost certain you will too.
Happy Holidays from Hampshire County
First Night Northampton
Photo by Eric Kaplan for MassLive
Research has shown that the people most susceptible to joy are people consciously fostering gratitude in their day-to-day lives. So this holiday season, in an effort to tip the scales toward joy, we’re going all-in on appreciation. And we’re starting right here in Hampshire County.
Ho-Hum Holiday Shopping Gets the Heave-Ho
ASSEMBLE Northampton
Photo by Lynne Graves
It’s early November and nearly impossible to deny — THE HOLIDAYS ARE HERE. Retailers have skipped Thanksgiving and gone straight to “Ho, Ho, Ho.” We’re already sick of pumpkin spice. And that lovely anxiety about getting the holiday shopping started has already started to creep in. What we’re here to tell you, is that your gift-buying dreams have come true. In Hampshire County, we’re stacked with the one-of-a-kind presents you love to give AND get.
Planning the Perfect Fall Wedding in Hampshire County: Part Three
The Mossy Apothecary
Photo by Lynne Graves
In Part One, we gave you the rundown on venues, illustrating the incredible range of options you have in the Pioneer Valley. In Part Two, we gave you some fabulous options for food, flowers, and photographers. In Part Three, we’re rounding out our series with some tried and true strategies for keeping the wedding party happy. You may be thinking, “Hey! It’s my wedding. Why am I worried about my bridesmaids and groomsmen?” So glad you asked! They’re holding the keys to your perfect wedding weekend. They’re in charge of the rings. They’re running interference between all of your feuding relatives. And in some cases, they’re traveling from some faraway corner of the world to be with you. Treat those superstars right. Give ‘em the props they deserve. And do it in major style in the place we all love best — Hampshire County, of course.
Planning the Perfect Fall Wedding in Hampshire County: Part Two
Forget Me Not Florist
Photo by dani.fine Photography and Image Studio
In Part One, we laid down the law about the stunning venues in Hampshire County — book them now, because 2020 is filling fast! And today, we’ve got the HIGHLY anticipated Part Two you’ve all been waiting for. This is the moment when you start to face the truly important decisions about this big and important day. First off, what will people eat? Secondly, what fabulous florals will make up your bouquet? And finally, how do you plan to document this blessed occasion? Whew! Let’s get started.
Get Spooky (and spectacular) in Hampshire County
Surrealist Cabaret
Photo by Candace Hope
From the traditionally scary to the otherworldly and extra special, the pumpkin patches of October have inspired us to get out and find some extraordinary events going on in Western Massachusetts this month.
Planning the Perfect Fall Wedding in Hampshire County: Part One
Amherst
Photo by Love & Perry Photography and Films
There are few things more beautiful than fall in New England. You’re engaged. You’re in love. And now you face the daunting task — of planning the wedding. Sure, you can be like everyone else and get married in May or June. OR, you can go the other way. Plan for fall instead of summer. Work with saturated reds and yellows instead of pastels. Wear the dress with long sleeves, the three piece suit made of wool, and the flower crown made of begonias.
5 Reasons to Make Hampshire County Your Fall Getaway Destination
Valley View Farm, Haydenville
Photo by Lynne Graves
We're more than pretty leaves and crisp breezes. Find out why fall is our favorite season.
Fall Fairs and Festivals in Hampshire County
Belchertown Fair
Photo by Lynne Graves
Ready to get autumnal? We've got a roundup of all the best fall fests and fairs right here.