Celebrating new ideas, new businesses, and the people building them.
Spring is in the air.
Well… right after that last rogue snowflake drifting past your office window finally melts in the afternoon sun.
But it’s coming. And when it does, Upstate New York does what it always does. Quietly. Confidently. Beautifully. It comes back to life like it never left.
And speaking of natural beauty, let’s start with yours.
Beauty, Confidence, and Looking Good Enough for Print
Local entrepreneur Christina Sprague is helping people put their best face forward with Olea Esthetics, a private, one-on-one skincare studio where timeless elegance meets modern innovation. Nestled inside a charming Cape Cod home, each treatment is thoughtfully tailored to you.
It’s calm. It’s intentional. It’s a little Parisian escape without leaving Utica.
And honestly? We could all use that.
Feeling radiant? Good. Let’s capture it.
Photographer Michael Marrone has built a reputation for capturing moments that feel real. Whether it’s weddings, events, school photos, or finally updating that LinkedIn headshot you’ve been avoiding since 2017, Michael takes the time to understand his clients so he can catch them at their best.
Just a guy with a camera and an eye for making you look like yourself on your best day.
Even Anna Wintour might take notice.
And, man, you do look good enough for print.
Personalized Gifts, Pickleball Glory, and Sweet Victory
Now, if you’re really planning ahead, Mother’s Day is coming. And nothing says “I love you, Mom” quite like a life-size cardboard cutout of yourself.
That’s where Trudy Sullivan at Tusk comes in. From personalized gifts to promotional items, Tusk covers just about everything you didn’t know you needed—until now.
Church jitterbug contest? Trudy’s got your trophy.
State championship pickleball tournament? T-shirts so sharp your opponents start to wobble. Then waffle. Then quietly question the efficacy of every wiffle in their coffer.
You win. Obviously. And what do winners do?
They celebrate.
Preferably with a triple bundtlet tower or a box of seasonal bundtinis from Nothing Bundt Cakes in New Hartford. Because nothing says victory—or Tuesday—like cake.
Owner Ella Caiola recently donated sweet prizes for the National Civics Bee regional competition hosted by the Greater Utica Chamber of Commerce. Turns out, democracy pairs nicely with frosting.
Mysticism, Tattoos, and a Little Cosmic Guidance
And while we’re talking about treats, let’s pivot.
What if dessert came with a side of enlightenment? Maybe even a tattoo?
At Covet Metaphysical and Heimowitz Arts in Bagg’s Square, you can do exactly that. Owners Daniee Weaver and Jae Heimowitz have created a space that feels part modern studio, part mystical hideaway. Like a traveling fortune teller’s caravan meets a downtown art gallery and decides to stay.
Tarot readings. Crystals. Art. Tattoos. Energy everywhere.
I stopped in for a quick visit and ended up staying longer than planned (always a good sign). A mini tarot reading from Kellie? The Sun card came up, and for a second, it felt like the room already knew something I didn’t.
I’ll be back for a full reading soon.
You should come with me.
One Final Recommendation
And when we’re done, we’ll walk two doors down to Nina’s Pizza.
Garlic, extra-cheese pizza. Ricotta. Onions. Pickles.
I know. I know.
Trust me. I’m packing the Rolaids.
Spring is showing up. New businesses are opening their doors. Creative people are building things. And there are more reasons than ever to get out, try something new, and maybe surprise yourself a little along the way.
Consider this your invitation.
Sean Farrell is Special Projects Officer at the Greater Utica Chamber of Commerce, where he works to support local businesses, build community connections, and spotlight what’s new and growing across the region. He also runs WhatsUpstateNY.com—more than a website, it’s your in-hand guide to discovering the people, places, and experiences that make Upstate New York special.
Original column appeared in the Daily Sentinel.
