March 2026 by fortwaynelifestyle

Fort Wayne lifestyle

The Home Issue Fort Wayne lifestyle

Dear Friends and Family,

Welcome to March’s Home Issue. I’m thrilled you’re joining us. Now, when we say ‘home,’ some might think of renovations or expansions, but to me, it’s so much deeper.

This year, as last, I moved back here, returning to be near my mom, my family, and even my lifelong friend Bill, who I’ve known since we were kids, smashing Matchbox cars.

That, my friends, is home. And having all of you, my extended family, right here with me makes this journey even richer. I hope you savor this Home Issue, and remember: a house is just a place, but it’s your family that truly defines what makes it home.”

March 2026

PUBLISHER

Billy Moore | publisher@fortwaynelifestyle.com

CEO

Matt Coffel | matt@fortwaynelifestyle.com

EDITOR

Breanna Schooley | breanna@fortwaynelifestyle.com

PHOTOGRAPHER

Lena Whitmore

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER

Megan O’Connor | publisher@fortwaynelifestyle.com

CONCIERGE OF HOSPITALITY AND HAPPINESS

Linda Robberts

WRITER

Vincenzo Capriani

Warmly,

At Fort Wayne Lifestyle, we are committed to consistently delivering high-quality, engaging content that highlights the vibrant community of Fort Wayne. From parks and local attractions to entertainment venues and family-friendly events, we celebrate everything that makes the Summit City a great place to live, work, and explore. Whether it’s a TinCaps baseball game, a local movie night, or a day at the zoo, our mission is to connect residents and visitors alike with the best experiences Fort Wayne has to offer—because Fort Wayne Lifestyle is all about you.

(Including Greater Allen, DeKalb, Huntington, and Wells counties)

AROUND TOWN

A B C

John from Indiana Loan Company joined us to celebrate our one-year anniversary of Fort Wayne Lifestyle.

Editor Bre and friends, Nick, Aiden, and Preston, had a great time at our anniversary event.

James from Compass Financial made great connections at our first anniversary party.

Readers Bill and Denise stopped by to celebrate our one-year anniversary with us.

Publisher Bill, thanking everyone who took time out of their day to celebrate with us at the anniversary party.

CEO Matt announcing raffles winners during our one-year-anniversary celebration.

Business Updates

Back 9 Golf and Entertainment Coming Soon

Back 9 Golf and Entertainment is coming to Fort Wayne. The driving range and entertainment venue currently has a location in Indianapolis. The Fort Wayne location is set to feature “state-of-the-art golfing, a lively atmosphere, and a diverse menu of scratch-made food and beverages“, leaders say. It will be located on a 10-acre site along North Clinton Street, near I-469 and Brooks Road. Crews hope to break ground on Back 9 this summer and plan to be operating by summer 2026.

New Loyalty Program at Country Heritage Winery and Vineyard

Country Heritage Winery and Vineyard are introducing their new Loyalty Program. Earn 1 point for every $1 spent on all transactions at Country Heritage | Backroads Distilling. Points add up fast—redeem $5 rewards for every 250 points. No strings, no expiration—just pour worthy benefits! Start earning on your next visit and get rewarded for doing what you already love—cheers to that!

Crescent Avenue Bakery Closing Up Shop

Sweet Cream Bakery, north of downtown Fort Wayne, is closing up shop as the owner shifts her focus to a business in Kosciusko County. But the Crescent Avenue building that until now has housed Sweet Cream Bakery & Coffery won’t be vacant for long. Replacing Sweet Cream Bakery is Miss Beth’s Coffee, which will primarily feature espresso drinks and cinnamon rolls. The upcoming coffee shop plans to open on April 1st, according to their sign.

FOOD THOUGHT for

Chicken with Stewed Peppers and Tomatoes

Sear paprika-rubbed chicken on a skillet, then nestle in a trio of red veggies (onions, peppers, and tomatoes) and finish the cooking process in the oven for a beautiful one-pan meal worth keeping in your back pocket. A shower of parsley and sliced almonds adds freshness and crunch.

Ingredients

4 6-oz boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 Tbsp. smoked paprika

Kosher salt and pepper

1 Tbsp. olive oil

2 small red onions, cut into 1/2-inch-thick wedges

2 red peppers, quartered and sliced crosswise 1/2 inch thick

1/2 lb. Campari or large cherry tomatoes, halved

2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced

Chopped parsley leaves and sliced almonds, for serving

Instructions:

1. Heat oven to 450°F. Pat chicken dry with paper towels, then rub with paprika and 1/2 teaspoon each salt and pepper.

2. Heat oil in large ovenproof skillet on medium and cook chicken until browned on one side, 4 to 5 minutes. Flip chicken. Add onions, peppers, tomatoes, and garlic and season with 1/2 teaspoon each salt and pepper.

3. Transfer skillet to oven and roast, stirring vegetables once, until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender, 14 to 16 minutes. Serve sprinkled with chopped parsley leaves and almonds if desired.

By Kate Merker

Where your Dreams

Meet Your Home

Since this is the Home Issue, let me tell you a story about a local family and their home, a place that started as a dream and became a masterpiece. The Whitakers, a young entrepreneurial couple, had long imagined a home that mirrored their success, sleek, modern, and uniquely theirs. When they reached out, they met Ultimate Dream Builders, a Fort Wayne legend known for turning grand visions into reality.

From that first handshake, Ultimate Dream Builders didn’t just offer services, they offered partnership. With decades of refined craftsmanship, they orchestrated a bespoke transformation, sleek roofing, polished concrete patios, and interiors that exuded sophistication. And as their home evolved, so did their life, every morning in their sunlit kitchen, every evening on their designer patio, reflected their bold journey. If you’ve ever dreamed big for your home, let me tell you, Ultimate Dream Builders is the family that builds those dreams with you, right here in Fort Wayne.

Contact Ultimate Dream Builders at www.ultimatedreambuilders.com

Privacy in Perfect Harmony

In the beating heart of Fort Wayne, a name synonymous with comfort and trust is Ziegler’s Window Coverings. The story began in 1947, when brothers Robert and Bert Zeigler, with a spark and steel blinds in their basement, dreamed of a better view for their neighbors.

Today, Todd Zeigler proudly carries that torch, alongside a dream team that feels like family. Kaylee is the first warm smile you’ll meet, guiding each client with a steady, patient hand. Keaton is the tech wizard who ensures motorized systems run flawlessly.

And Michael, with his red hair and goatee, rides into each project like a bold adventurer, infusing excitement into every home transformation.

Then there’s Terry, an unsung legend. She’s not the loudest voice, but she’s the GOAT of window coverings, with decades of wisdom that guide every decision from behind the scenes. And Laura, Todd’s wife, is the steady partner, ensuring every detail feels like a shared dream.

But the ultimate honor? The CEO of Fort Wayne Lifestyle himself chose them, personally approving their work in his own home, giving them his full endorsement. So when you choose Ziegler’s, you choose a name trusted by the very leaders who shape Fort Wayne’s lifestyle.

Framing your perfect privacy, they don’t just cover windowsm they envelop Fort Wayne in care. Each day, Todd, Laura, Kaylee, Keaton, Michael, and Terry ensure every home is a sanctuary, sealed with trust, endorsed by the best, and designed to last a lifetime, framing every life with style and privacy in perfect harmony.

LOCAL EVENTS

January 13, 2026 - December 31, 2026

The Lincolns at Home

Allen County Public Library | 9:00 AM

In the Rolland Center for Lincoln Research at the Allen County Public Library, a new free exhibit spotlights President Abraham Lincoln’s family at home. Visitors are invited to take an intimate look at this historic first family, which through times of peace and times of war found comfort and companionship in one another. Journey through the family’s years in their hometown of Springfield, Illinois, to their time in the White House amidst the nation’s greatest crisis

March 5, 2026 - May 31, 2026

Glo Wild at the Fort Wayne Zoo

Fort Wayne Zoo | 7:30 PM to 10:00 PM

Don’t miss your opportunity to see the Zoo transform into a wild and wonderful night-time lantern festival. Step into a land of glowing landscapes and stand toe to toe with towering animals in larger-than-life 3D lantern displays. This colorful and immersive adventure is open on select evenings. Glo Wild is a special ticketed event. Fort Wayne Zoo members can enjoy a discount by logging into their member portal at the time of purchase.

March 7, 2026 - March 8, 2026

Disney On Ice presents Frozen & Encanto

Allen County War Memorial Coliseum | Saturday, March 7 2:30 PM | Saturday, March 7 6:30 PM | Sunday, March 8 10:30 AM | Sunday, March 8 2:30 PM

Step inside the magical adventures of Disney’s Frozen and Encanto as they are brought to life like never before at Disney On Ice! Dazzling ice skating transports you to Arendelle to be a part of Anna’s adventure to find Elsa, whose icy powers unleashed an eternal winter. Sing along to your favorite songs and celebrate the power of love and courage at Disney On Ice presents Frozen & Encanto – the show everyone will be talking about!

March 7, 2026

Doctor’s Day

Science Central | 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM

The 31st annual Doctor’s Day, a Fort Wayne Medical Society Alliance event. This event is a free, hands-on health career fair for the whole family. Visitors can look forward to: watching medical and wellness demonstrations throughout the day, asking questions at “The Doctor Is In” booth, touching heart, lung, and brain specimen, giveaways, and more!

March 12th -14th, 2026

Winter Tractor and Gas Engine Show

Kruse Plaza 5634 Opportunity Blvd, Auburn, IN | 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Three full days of agricultural awesomeness featuring classic tractors, muscle tractors, a pedal pull contest, pancake breakfast, swap meet, toy show, craft show, trading post, and quilt show.

LOCAL EVENTS

March 14th, 2026

70’s-Style Oscar Gala + The Godfather Screening: Support Cinema Center

Cinema Center | 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM

Film is more than entertainment—it’s a window into new worlds, a catalyst for connection, and a force that shapes the future. As we look ahead to the Academy Awards, we’re not just celebrating the best films of the year—we’re embracing the evolving landscape of cinema and the incredible moments we’ve shared at Cinema Center.

March 19th, 2026

Spring Wine Dinner at Dash-In

Dash-In 814 S Calhoun St, Fort Wayne | 6:00 PM-9:00 PM

We are excited to bring you a Cajun theme for this event, full of authentic flavors! As always we are able to make accommodations for most dietary restrictions, just let us know when making your reservations if you need to make any modifications.

March 26th, 2026

WinterJam26

Allen County War Memorial Coliseum | 7:00 PM

Winter Jam 2026 brings together some of the biggest names in Christian music for an unforgettable night. This year’s lineup features Chris Tomlin, Matthew West, Katy Nichole, Hulvey, Disciple, Emerson Day, Newsong, and speaker Zane Black, with a Pre-Jam Party featuring Jeremy Rosado, Heath Brothers, and Cliff Preston

March 27th, 2026 - March 29th, 2026

Fort Wayne Rod & Custom Show

Allen County War Memorial Coliseum | Friday, 4:00pm – 9:00pm | Saturday, 10:00am –9:00pm | Sunday, 10:00am – 4:00pm

Experience the thrill of automotive excellence at the Coliseum in Fort Wayne, Indiana, from March 27-29, 2026. Showcasing over 200 extraordinary hot rods and custom cars from across the nation, this event is a celebration of history, craftsmanship, and community spirit. Join us for an unforgettable journey through the world of classic and modern custom vehicles.

April 3rd, 2026 - April 4th, 2026

Bunny Tales in the Garden

Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory | 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM

Hop your way through the Botanical Conservatory during Bunny Tales! Explore garden after garden filled with festive fun, live animal encounters and colorful spring blooms, all leading to a magical meet-and-greet with the Easter Bunny. Bunny takes breaks from 11:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. and 1:30-2:00 p.m.

The Finishing Touch

How Frame Art & Design Completes a Space

Frame Art & Design are the premier custom picture framers in Fort Wayne. They don’t just frame, they transform, helping you finish your wall space so your home (or business) feels complete.

In modern homes (especially open-concept spaces) you can have the perfect furniture and accessories, and yet the space still feels vacant. That’s why art matters: it anchors the eye, tells your story, and makes the space feel personal. In an open layout, those empty stretches of wall should be focal points. Large rooms don’t always have ample space for art, so what you choose matters. Framing is usually the last thing to go into a space, but it’s the finishing touch that makes it feel complete.

That’s where Frame Art & Design shine. They have been in their current location for over 30 years. They are a rare combination of a woman owned business and a mother-daughter team. Marta (mother) and Kate (daughter) are the second and third generation in their family educated in Fine Art and Design. Every employee has a degree in art or design. They treat prints, photos, textiles, and objects with the respect they deserve. Your art and the space it is in should look harmonious.

Frame Art & Design have three Certified Picture Framers on staff. They constantly strive to keep up to date on their knowledge and skills, specifically preservation framing. That experience shows in their work. They will work with you through mat and frame choice, proportion, and wall space to pull it all together.

They will even come to your home or business, immerse themselves in your space, and guide you in designing frames that complement your lifestyle. They have a huge selection of frames and price points, and will work with you to find the perfect choice, and ensure that the process is not overwhelming. A modest print can feel like a masterpiece and a sentimental piece can look elevated. If you want art to be well done the first time around, this is the place to go.

And speaking as the owner of Fort Wayne Lifestyle Magazine, I can tell you firsthand: their meticulous, personalized framing turns every piece into a statement of confidence and personal pride. With Frame Art & Design, you’re not just hanging a picture, you’re finishing the wall space and the life around it, and it never feels vacant again.

They don’t just frame, they transform, elevating digital prints and sentimental pieces into confident statements that complete your space. They don’t just frame, they transform, elevating digital printsand sentimental pieces into confident statements that complete your space.

Thoughtful Projects

That Prepare Your Home for Spring

Simple upgrades that refresh the home, one space at a time.

March is ideal for completing small, intentional home projects that make a daily difference.

Rather than tackling major renovations, focus on upgrades you can complete in a weekend, projects that improve how your home functions, feels, and welcomes spring.

These refined DIY updates bring immediate payoff while quietly adding long-term value.

A Fresh First Impression

Begin the month with a defined entryway upgrade. Replace an outdated light fixture with warm brass or soft black, then install a narrow console or built-in bench with hidden storage for shoes and seasonal accessories. Add a tailored mirror to reflect natural light and visually expand the space, an impactful project that immediately elevates first impressions.

Small Kitchen Upgrades, Big Impact

Next, turn attention to the kitchen. Swap standard cabinet hardware for solid metal pulls, install soft-close hinges, or add pull-out organizers inside lower cabinets. These are practical, satisfying projects that dramatically improve everyday use without altering the overall design. While you’re there, consider upgrading the faucet to a professional-style or touch-activated model for a subtle luxury boost.

Subtle Structure, Strong Style

In living areas, dedicate a weekend to installing custom floating shelves. Mount them with precision, keep spacing intentional, and style sparingly with art books, ceramics, and one organic element. This project adds architecture and personality without clutter.

A Refreshed Outdoor Welcome

Finish March outdoors by power-washing hard surfaces and refreshing oversized planters near the entry or patio. Choose structured greenery or early spring florals to signal the seasonal transition. Each project is approachable, purposeful, and designed to enhance how the home is experienced, now and long after spring arrives.

Together, these projects create a thoughtful, step-bystep refresh that transitions the home seamlessly into spring. By starting with an elevated entryway, daily arrivals feel more intentional and welcoming. Small but impactful kitchen upgrades improve function while adding subtle luxury to everyday routines. In the living areas, clean-lined floating shelves introduce structure and personality without overwhelming the space. Finally, refreshed outdoor surfaces and planters extend that sense of care beyond the front door, signaling a seasonal shift. Each update is approachable on its own, yet collectively they enhance how the home looks, feels, and functions, now and well into the months ahead.

THE SEASON WE PREPARE FOR

“Spring adds new life and new beauty to all that is.” – Jessica Harrelson

Although I’m the publisher of Fort Wayne Lifestyle, I don’t really speak up much or give my opinion. But March in Fort Wayne has always been deeply personal to me. I step into my yard and feel that familiar tug as the days stretch longer, inviting me to begin again. Before the first bloom, I clean my tools, flip through seed packets, and imagine where color will return. Preparing now is my quiet way of honoring what’s ahead. It’s a hopeful ritual that reminds me why I love this place—the slow rhythm, the patient waiting, and the comfort of knowing spring will return, just as it always does.

Before the first bloom, I reset the basics: tools, soil, seeds, because spring isn’t rushed in Fort Wayne; it’s welcomed with patience, lessons, and love.

As publisher of Fort Wayne Lifestyle, my gardening journey is intertwined with this community. I never rush it; it’s a conversation between me, the weather, and all I’ve learned. I lay out last year’s lessons on the table, what thrived, what didn’t. I test the soil, knowing our winters always leave their mark. I watch the sun shift, visit local nurseries, and listen to those who know best. Choosing native plants and planning early isn’t just practical, it’s a promise to myself that I’ll savor every step.

And as I tend to my home with care, whether it’s the garden or every small detail—I’m also tending to you, my friends and family at Fort Wayne Lifestyle. How I care for this space is how I care for you, each of you a vital part of this journey. Together, we grow, we learn, and we flourish, rooted in the same patience and love that makes this community thrive.

P.S. Here’s some info for you: lock down your grill on the deck in case it gets windy, so it doesn’t fly off and you have to buy a new one!

Don’t say I didn’t tell you so!

The Art of a Seasonal Reset

Shake off winter with quick, easy home resets that boost comfort, curb appeal, and peace of mind.

Spring is here, and it’s the perfect time to shake off winter and make your home feel fresh again. You don’t have to do a full “spring clean-up.” A few simple resets can make a big difference in how your house looks, smells, and runs heading into warmer weather.

Start outside, and clear out your gutters. Make sure downspouts are pushing water away from the foundation. Take a walk around the exterior and look for anything that needs attention, loose caulk, peeling paint, cracked steps, wobbly railings, or spots where water tends to pool. If you see mulch or soil piled against siding, pull it back so things can dry out.

Then move to the systems that keep your home running. Swap your HVAC filter (especially helpful with spring allergies), and if you use central air, schedule a tune-up if it’s been a while. Check outdoor faucets and hoses for leaks before you need them. Test your sump pump if you have one, spring rain is the time you want it working, not the time you discover it isn’t.

Inside, focus on the areas that instantly make it feel like winter is gone. Open windows on a decent day, wipe down windowsills, and clean the spots that collect winter dust: baseboards, vents, ceiling fan blades, and entryways.

Shake out rugs, wipe scuffs near doorways, and give your kitchen sink a refresh so the house smells cleaner. Wash heavy blankets and throw covers, rotate seasonal clothes, and pack away the bulky stuff you won’t need for a while.

And don’t skip out on safety: clean out dryer lint and vacuum around the vent area, check smoke/CO detectors, and replace batteries if needed.

By the time you’re done, your home feels lighter, brighter, and fully ready for the season, like you actually let spring in instead of just watching it happen outside.