Unplug. Disconnect. Plug in. These are cyclical movements we do on a daily basis. For a lot of members of Generation Z, the first thing we do in the morning is open our eyes and disconnect our phones from the charger. Once we are awake, we scroll on our phones that we are so tethered to. As a generation, we are quick to grab our personal cellular device and swipe through notifications, check social media platforms, and respond to the continual conversations that happened the day before.
Read MoreOver the last few years, Gen X has ditched the cameras on their phones and adopted new ways to take pictures. Point-and-shoot digital cameras have risen in popularity and become the latest fad. Even though the quality of a 10 to 20-year-old camera is significantly lower than an iPhone, many of us still choose the digital camera over the camera app. So, why exactly is this?
Read MoreIt’s official: film cameras are making a comeback. Any event I go to, I always hear at least one person say, “Can you take this on my disposable?” “Wait, make sure you dial it all the way!” Film cameras are quickly becoming more of a norm among younger generations. Using film cameras brings back an older aesthetic that we, as young people, are gravitating towards. So, how do you break into the film camera world? What’s the lingo you need to know? And for real–does anyone actually know what aperture means?
Read MoreWalk through the doors of Lucky Cat Boba and Taiyaki and you see walls lined with brightly-colored Korean stationary, display cases full of anime figures, Hello Kitty and Totoro stuffed animals, and, of course, an expansive menu of boba tea.
Read MoreEveryone knows what the male gaze is. Its presence is inescapably felt in media, be it magazines, TV shows or advertisements. Whether or not you’ve heard of the term, its undoubtable you’ve felt its effects. Maybe you’ve sensed its glare tracking you a little too long in the grocery isle or heard its whisper in the back of your mind as you trade out that cute skirt you were excited to wear for something more conservative because it might attract the “wrong” kind of attention. Our whole society is shaped by the male gaze, and it can be very frustrating as a woman to not have our perspective represented in mainstream media.
Read MoreAs a fashion fanatic myself, I grew up wanting a space to learn about all things fashion. When I started my position as a YDP (Youth Development Professional) at the Boys and Girls Club last July, I was faced with an initial question, “what clubs can you start based on your hobbies and interests?” I knew I wanted to start a fashion club.
Read MoreSlow and steady wins the race, and that is exactly what Snail Art House advocates for in their work. Local to downtown Springfield, this up-and-coming studio crafted its eclectic style with attention toward slow fashion. Through compromise, connections, and growth, this group of artists established a new creative direction for Springfield artistry. Alongside quotes from creator Chloe Thorne, we gather a relative history over the year that has been the development of Snail Art House.
Read MoreEvery day a new skincare hack or serum blows up on the internet. "This got rid of my acne instantly" or "This serum changed my life," are claims we often hear right before the next fad comes. Peyton Ragen, owner, and creator of 417 Sacred Skin focuses on a different approach. "I believe that true beauty starts with healing yourself. When you feel better about your life, body, and surroundings, the outside matches that." Before going to esthetician school, she knew she wanted to focus on natural ingredients but never knew her holistic business would start even before she graduated.
Read MoreAt first glance, being a vegan or choosing to eat a plant-based diet in Springfield Missouri sounds like a difficult feat. Although it might be surprising, the vegan population in Springfield has grown exponentially in recent years, and the community has responded to this change. Plant-based eaters can now find a vegan option at many restaurants in Springfield, and grocery stores (even Walmart) are starting to accommodate vegans with fully plant-based sections in their stores. Amy Bennett is the owner of the recently opened vegan fast food joint, Bosky’s Vegan Grill. Bosky’s is now one of the very few restaurants in town that provides a fully vegan menu.
A local vintage clothing start-up collaboratively founded by Elijah Baig and Sam Fuson (@elijahbaig_ & @sam.fuson on Instagram), Springy Jeans has catapulted its way toward success. Specializing in curated vintage pieces, Springy drops new collections every weekend, with said drops happening digitally as well as in their retail space. Since last interviewing with the brand about two years ago, Springy Jeans as a brand has made its way into the hearts of those who love refined vintage pieces. Elijah and Sam, the co-founders have since moved to Los Angeles, now primarily doing pop-up shops around the iconic city, putting pieces up for sale on their website, as well as managing their flagship store, Springy on Walnut, here in downtown Springfield. Wanting to do an update to document their recent success, I reached out to Sam to ask a few questions.
Read MoreKnitting is often thought of as a cozy, little craft done by grandmothers who sit in rocking chairs by a softly crackling fireplace. They have glasses with chains and use shades of blue and brown to make sensible cable-knit sweaters. While this is an accurate portrayal of some knitters, it is NOT a portrayal of them all.
Read MoreAlthough it’s frightening to think that October is already here and midterms are lurking in the dark corner of the room ready to jump-scare us any second now, this month also symbolizes the best part of fall. The weather is starting to hit that perfect temperature, and the anticipation for Halloween is almost unbearable. If you’re anything like me, you know that Halloween is the best holiday.
Read MoreLatinas in TV, film, and other forms of media often have an exaggerated, stereotypical reputation. Latinas in the media are often seen as “exotic,” tempered, very curvy with a small waist and large breasts, showing more cleavage than other characters and usually wearing fitted clothing. These are things that exacerbate the sexualization of Latinas. There is nothing wrong with a confident Latina who decides to show their curves, but that shouldn't be the only type of Latina we see on our screens.
Read MoreWhether she’s assisting customers in her store, working at a farmer’s market, or parked outside a local business, there’s always a chance to visit Tasha Adams and her plants. Hickory Lane Plants is a local, female-owned plant nursery that will never leave you disappointed. From her adorable green trailer named Lucy, to a newer white truck named Joe, to a full storefront, Hickory Lane has become an essential (and the first mobile) spot for plant people.
Read MoreCatalina is a growing sensation that started right here in Springfield. They are an alternative band with an indie rock sound that is often compared to Pinegrove, My Chemical Romance, and All Time Low by listeners. I interviewed Lennon Rauhoff, lead vocalist, about starting the band, their music, and what comes next.
Read MoreHave a birthday coming up that you want to be special but have no idea what to do for it? Or maybe have some plans but have no clue what to wear or how to decorate? This guide is for you! Let’s face it, you are special and there’s no reason you shouldn’t be the center of attention on your special day. If you’re looking to celebrate your birthday in style, follow the guide below to plan the perfect party that is bound to impress.
Read MoreHow many times have you looked at a Pinterest bedroom filled with plants and thought “I wish I could do that”? For some, the thought of keeping a plant alive is impossible. Owning a houseplant (or 30) can seem overwhelming, but with the right guidance and a little bit of patience, anyone can be an amazing parent to their little green companions.
Read MoreAnyone familiar with pop culture and film knows the name Wes Anderson. His reputation for aesthetically-pleasing, perfectly-hued, symmetrical cinematography goes far beyond that of most directors. But what exactly makes up his directing style, and how do his movies look so pleasing to the eye? We’ve put a spin on our favorite film covers to showcase what makes a Wes Anderson a Wes Anderson.
Read MoreIt’s National Pie Day, but Springfield’s local pie experts at Prairie Pie have their own special reason to celebrate— the business is celebrating its one year anniversary as a brick and mortar store. Owner Eleanor Taylor spent years baking wholesale pies for pre-order, but now, anyone can stop by the shop, housed on Jefferson in what used to be Vito’s Kitchen, to try out their wide variety of sweet and savory pies.
Read MoreDowntown Springfield welcomes a new, bright and airy coffee shop, Green House Coffee + Affogato Bar. Located at 431 S. Jefferson Ave. Suite 172, Green House specializes in affogato. The Italian coffee-based dessert is made with a scoop of ice cream or gelato, topped with a pour of espresso or strong brewed coffee.
Read More