BRAVA March April 2026

Community

IS OUR BLUEPRINT

Dane County is more than our workplace. It’s where we live, support our neighbors, and build lasting connections.

Together, let’s create a positive impact for a brighter future!

Beth Norman ranked #1 in Wisconsin on the 2026 Forbes Top Women Wealth Advisors list

Beth and her team provide approachable, creative and personalized advice to assist clients in optimizing their lives now while planning for their financial future. They are passionate about helping their clients thrive and community prosper.

Beth Norman, CFP®, AWM

Managing Director – Financial Advisor Senior Portfolio Manager

The Norman Fletchall Team 10 E. Doty Street, Suite 1000 Madison, WI 53703

(608) 252-7525 | elizabeth.norman@rbc.com www.normanfletchallteam.com

Investment and insurance products offered through RBC Wealth Management are not insured by the FDIC or any other federal government agency, are not deposits or other obligations of, or guaranteed by, a bank or any bank affiliate, and are subject to investment risks, including possible loss of the principal amount invested.

The 2026 Forbes “America’s Top Women Wealth Advisors” and “Top Women Wealth Advisors Best-In-State” award was announced February 2026. Data as of 9/30/2025. The award was developed by SHOOK Research and is based on in-person, virtual and telephone due diligence meetings and a ranking algorithm that includes: a measure of each team’s best practices, client retention, industry experience, review of compliance records, firm nominations; and quantitative criteria, including assets under management and revenue generated for their firms. Investment performance was not an award criterion. Rankings are based on the opinions of SHOOK Research, LLC and not indicative of future performance or representative of any one client’s experience. The financial advisor does not pay a fee to be considered for or to receive this award. This award does not evaluate the quality of services provided to clients. For more information: www.SHOOKresearch.com.

© RBC Wealth Management, a division of RBC Capital Markets, LLC, registered investment adviser and Member NYSE/FINRA/SIPC. All rights reserved. 26-MS-00427 (02/26)

MONEY SMARTS

BY KIM SPONEM

rather than paying a bill. Set clear limits around what you can provide right now and an end date on financial support. Women’s generosity extends to gifts. Women buy more gifts than men. Find a level that you can afford, and still save for the long term, to avoid the “credit card bill dread” the following month.

My friend lost her job and is struggling. Seeing what she is going through has made me nervous. How do I make sure I’m okay if I lose my job, so I have time to find something else?

Losing a job can feel like the ground has shifted beneath you. Suddenly, decisions that once felt manageable carry more weight, and well-meaning advice often misses the mark. This moment isn’t about making perfect financial choices — it’s about making informed ones that protect your stability and preserve your options. With a realistic view of your finances and a measured approach to what comes next, you can reduce stress now and avoid decisions you’ll wish you would’ve handled differently later.

The first step is to get clear on what you need each month to cover essentials. That may sound basic, but most people don’t have a realistic number without sitting down to calculate it. Think in terms of stability, not ideal living: food, housing, gas, utilities, vehicle and health insurance, childcare, debt and other recurring obligations. It isn’t about exactness; just get an estimate so you know how long any savings cushion will last.

We’ve all heard advice like, “skip the latte,” or “eliminate streaming services.” While true that every bit helps, these types of expenses alone aren’t what determine your financial stability. Many women don’t over-spend, they over-support. You may provide ongoing support to adult children, aging parents or other family members — often without clear boundaries. Women are 40% more likely to end up in poverty in retirement due to lack of savings and investments. Providing support at the expense of saving enough to establish your financial security is problematic. During a job loss, generosity without limits can become an even greater financial risk.

Find ways to be generous that do not cost you too much time or too much money. Offer guidance instead of cash or helping plan or problem-solve

Another often-overlooked drain is the cost of maintaining normalcy — paying for convenience, routines or services that keep life steady for others. After a job loss, it’s worth asking which ones are essential and which could be adjusted temporarily. Peace of mind about how you’ll navigate this transition is valuable, too, in reducing worry, stress and instability.

From there, next steps depend on how much financial runway you have. Think of your savings as time and flexibility, not spending money. If you can cover essential expenses for the next three to six months without touching retirement funds, that’s the best path. But that isn’t always possible — and needing to tap retirement savings to protect basic stability is not a failure. It’s a better option than relying on high-interest credit cards to cover necessities.

If you do need to access retirement savings, focus on minimizing long-term financial impact. Withdraw only what stabilizes the immediate situation, understand the tax implications before acting and plan deliberately. One structured withdrawal is often less harmful than multiple panic-driven ones. You’ll rebuild when this chapter is behind you. Longterm financial security will mean having retirement savings beyond an easy-to-access three to six months of savings.

Whether you’re stretching a tight budget or carefully managing a savings cushion, the financial decisions you make now shape what’s possible next. In the next article, we’ll focus on the career decisions that come after financial stability — and how to approach them with clarity, confidence and an eye toward earning power.

Kim Sponem is CEO and President, since 2002, of Summit Credit Union, an $8 billion, member-owned financial cooperative with more than 274,400 members. Kim has a passion for empowering people to improve their financial well-being for a richer life.

Ask Kim your money questions at MoneySmarts@SummitCreditUnion.com.

FROM IDEA TO ISSUE

Recently, I gave a presentation during career day to a few elementary school classes — including my daughter’s fourth-grade class. I loved answering the kids’ questions about what it’s like working in media today. The inquiries that made me laugh out loud though weren’t about my career at all — they were about our July/August 2025 Pets Issue cover, featuring the pup Little Lamb. The class peppered me with questions about how the photographer got Little Lamb to sit in the bike basket, how old he was and how we chose him for the cover. (I love kids.) One of the points I kept circling back to was how far ahead we plan our coverage so we can be thoughtful about the people and places we feature.

you’ll know that we published Raves & Faves, our reader’s choice survey, from 2011-2018. After convening as a team, we decided to bring it back this year with a bang! We refined the categories, and we’re thrilled that we can share your favorites with you as a helpful resource. Truly, we had an enormous reader response to bringing this back, and we appreciate all of you so much for voting.

Another piece that we carefully developed for months was “No Kidding” on P. 54. After we honored early child care advocate Heather Murray as a 2025 Woman to Watch, she helped guide us through the topic and her advocacy work. In short: early child care providers and advocates say the child care system in Wisconsin is underfunded and financially unsustainable.

As mom Amanda Sherer says in the feature: “The whole child care system is just nuts. It’s super expensive for parents. The workers don’t get paid much. The centers aren’t making money. Other parents I talk to are struggling.” The feature discusses what advocates are doing in this arena, and how parents can get involved.

There’s so much more great stuff in this issue. The fourth graders I talked to at career day might be disappointed that there’s not a dog on our cover again, but I think photographer Nicole Hansen’s beautiful work suffices just fine, don’t you?

Happy spring!

This issue in particular has stories that were many months, if not years, in the making. One feature that’s a fun throwback (but new!) is Raves & Faves on P. 38. If you’re a longtime BRAVA reader,

Shayna Mace Editorial Director @shaynamace

WOMEN’S HEALTH CARE NEWS

Wisconsin women had two big health care wins after the Wisconsin Assembly passed two bipartisan bills on Feb. 19. One was Gail’s Law, named after breast cancer advocate Gail Zeamer (who passed away in 2024). This law “requires insurance companies to cover secondary breast cancer screenings for women with dense breast tissue,” reports WMTV. We wrote about this topic in our September/ October 2024 issue, and I’m thrilled that Gov. Tony Evers will be signing this into law.

The Assembly also passed a postpartum Medicaid expansion bill extending coverage from two months to up to a year after birth. (Before this, Wisconsin was one of only two states that did NOT offer this extended coverage.) Better late than never…?

CALLING ALL DOGS

Speaking of cute doggos, don’t forget to submit your pup for our Capital City Dogs feature in the July/August issue! Scan the QR code or visit bravamagazine.com/ submit-your-dog-brava

BUSINESS

PUBLISHER

Barbara Krause bak@ntmediagroup.com

EDITORIAL

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Shayna Mace shayna@ntmediagroup.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Jim Nissen jim@commandshiftoption.com

Meredith Johnson meredith@ntmediagroup.com

EDITORIAL INTERN

Lenah Helmke

FACT - CHECKER

Mason Braasch

DIGITAL

DIGITAL DIRECTOR

Kristen Rouse krouse@ntmediagroup.com

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER

Cici Rindy cici@ntmediagroup.com

SALES

SALES MANAGER

Dena Frisch dena@ntmediagroup.com

SALES ASSISTANT

Arven Panilag arven@ntmediagroup.com

CLIENT SERVICES SPECIALIST

Amy Jacobs ads@ntmediagroup.com

ACCOUNTING accounting@ntmediagroup.com

CONTRIBUTORS

Shelby Deering, Kristine Hansen, Nicole Hansen, Maura Keller, MaryBeth Matzek, Melanie McManus, Kevin Revolinski, Hillary Schave, Katrina Simyab, Katie Vaughn, Shanna Wolf

BRAVA Magazine is a publication of Nei-Turner Media Group, Inc. Gary E. Nei, Chairman, William Turner, President.

This issue or any part thereof may not be reproduced in any form without written permission from the publisher. All rights reserved. ©2026

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BRAVA (ISSN 1934-4317) MARCH/APRIL 2026, Volume 27, Number 02, is published bimonthly (six times a year) by Nei-Turner Media Group, Inc. Periodicals postage paid at 3902 Milwaukee St., Madison, WI 53714 and additional offices.

Postmaster send address changes to: BRAVA Magazine, 951 Kimball Ln., Ste. 122, Verona, WI 53593-1786.

Madison Real Estate

By Mary Whitcomb and Maddie Richgels

The Seasonality of Real Estate

Before the large sporting goods chains came to Madison, Wes Zulty Sports was the go-to store for athletic needs, with several locations and a great reputation. Wes was a sharp businessman. As a small business owner myself, he once told me, “No matter what, you won’t sell skis in the summer.”

The same goes for Madison real estate although the rule is not quite as hard and fast. For sellers, the best time to list a home is between February and May. Very little goes on between Thanksgiving and New Year’s, and that pent-up demand brings buyers out in droves by mid-January. That activity creates competition, which is good for a seller’s bottom line. The highest number of accepted offers is usually between April and May, and on average homes sell for the highest amount between March and April. All of this is connected to activity that has occurred between 30-60 days earlier.

That being said, we don’t always have control over the timing of a sale. Fortunately, as Madison has grown, the demand for homes throughout the entire year has

Until next time,

increased. The farther you are from peak season, the more important it is to nail the price and make sure your home shows well.

For buyers, inventory levels are highest in the spring but so are the prices. Madison is a great place to live, and real estate is an excellent investment here. That translates into increased interest from prospective buyers. Timing is important and being prepared is the key getting pre-approved for a mortgage takes time, so it’s important to reach out to a lender as soon as you make the decision to buy a home.

An experienced realtor will have good advice for writing a strong offer. There are many ways to improve your odds of writing a winning bid, from using an escalation clause to offering inspection and appraisal deficiency credits. If finding a good deal on a home is important to you, then it’s best to shop in the fall. There are fewer buyers looking and most homeowners would rather sell for less than hold on to a home over winter.

Two siblings share their love of art, creativity and crafting with shoppers from Madison — and beyond.

BY SHAYNA MACE PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHANNA WOLF

Laura and Sachi Komai are out to prove that anyone can be creative.

“I think so many people walk around [thinking] ‘Oh, I’m not creative.’ And they dismiss it completely,” says Laura. “We’re just trying to move them from ‘I’m not creative’ to maybe, ‘This is something that I can think about doing.’

The sisters have co-owned Anthology, their paper and craft shop, since 2008. Located on the 200 block of State Street, Laura notes she and Sachi have worked on the same block for 20-plus years. The duo started out as managers at Little Luxuries, then struck out on their own to open Anthology.

Laura explains that the shop’s name refers to a collection of artistic works — like a music anthology or a poet’s compilation — and the sisters chose it to reflect a curated collection of artworks.

“It’s things we love, gathered,” says Laura.

The two-story shop carries a dizzying array of cards, gifts, stickers, T-shirts, and crafting and paper supplies. Laura says the sisters, who work with “easily over 200 vendors,” look for items from smaller letterpress studios and independent artists from across the U.S., although many are from the Midwest.

“Our customers like the mix of things [here]. They come in here and feel inspired, but also happy,” says Laura. “We have a really unique space, and I love it. [Our location] is equally accessible to everyone — we get people from all sides of town — and [from] all over the world. If you’re visiting Madison, you’re going to come State Street.”

The sisters are also artists and sell their own work at Anthology. Sachi draws and is an illustrator and Laura focuses on collage and photography.

Working with her sister for the last 23 years has been a joy, says Laura.

“It’s funny, some people are like, ‘I could never work with my sister.’ But it’s really interesting; we have different strengths. We really balance each other out, and it works well,” she says.

230 State St., anthologymadison.com

The Local List

Katharisma Cleaning provides refined cleaning with easy online booking, flat rates and trusted, background-checked professionals.

Katharisma Cleaning

Madison, WI 53703

608.315.5546 | katharismacleaningllc.com

Send a quick note to a loved one with whimsical cards depicting the intricacies of the natural world by Polanshek of the Hills.

Olbrich Botanical Gardens

3330 Atwood Ave.

Madison, WI 53704

608.246.4550 | olbrich.org

Wilson Aesthetic Company, led by Nurse Practitioner Becky Berkan, provides personalized aesthetic care with natural-looking results.

Wilson Aesthetic Company

990 Janesville St. #5 Oregon, WI 53575

608.219.0654 | wilsonaestheticcompany.com

Love is in the details - soft stripes with a delicately embroidered heart and a surprise back button placket.

Chauette Home and Fashion

1827 Parmenter St. Middleton, WI 53562

608.836.5366 | shopchauette.com

MAKING COLLEGE COSTS MANAGEABLE

What families should know about saving, planning and paying for higher education.

BY MAURA KELLER

For decades, the greatest financial worry for most American families was whether they would have enough money to live on in retirement. Today, that concern has been overtaken by a different, and often more immediate, question: How will we afford a college education for our children?

If you’re like more than half of American parents who expect their children to attend college, chances are you haven’t saved enough to fully cover the cost. Between everyday expenses and major financial demands — from car repairs to home maintenance — it’s easy to postpone college savings. As tuition continues to rise, families are recognizing that thoughtful college planning can make a meaningful difference in managing costs.

PAYING FOR COLLEGE

News headlines frequently highlight the rising price of higher education, and for good reason. Families with little or no savings often find it difficult, if not impossible, to cover college expenses solely through just their income(s). The good news is that paying for college isn’t usually only through one source.

“Parents think they can, or will, borrow 100% of the cost of college. That’s not a plan to pay for college,” says Karla Losey, CFP, vice president and wealth advisor at Johnson Financial Group.

In reality, most families rely on a patchwork approach that combines savings, current income, student loans, scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and sometimes home

equity or summer earnings. The key is setting realistic goals and understanding the options available.

“

” Meet with a planning professional, make a plan that works for your family and start saving as early as you can. That’s the key. — Karla Losey

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Losey notes that one of the most common mistakes parents make is being overwhelmed by the total cost of tuition and other expenses.

“They see that number and think they need to aim to save the full amount,” she says. “It’s an overwhelming number — and they don’t [have to] save all [of it].”

WHY STARTING EARLY MATTERS

The most powerful tool families have is time. Starting to save for college early allows savings to grow through compounding, even in volatile markets. Small, consistent contributions over 17 or 18 years can make a meaningful difference by the time a child graduates high school.

Losey says often, people wait too long to start saving.

“[But] you need time for the funds to accumulate and to grow,” she adds.

Parents often believe they can’t afford to save for college while raising a family. But Losey emphasizes that any amount saved is better than nothing.

“It is never too late to start,” she says. “Anything you save is better than zero.”

A helpful starting point is deciding how much of the bill you plan to cover. Some parents aim to pay tuition, room and board at a public university, while others expect their child to contribute more if they choose a private school. These decisions should be discussed early so expectations are clear.

“If you expect your child to contribute to the cost of their education, the conversation needs to take place early,” Losey explains. “That way, they grow up understanding and accepting the plan.”

Saving for college also isn’t just about building an account — it’s also an opportunity to teach lifelong money skills. Losey encourages parents to help children learn dayto-day financial management while they’re still at home.

“Get them started with a checking account when they’re old enough,” she says. “Show them how to track purchases and balances. If they have

UNDERSTANDING 529 PLANS

One of the most effective tools for college savings is a 529 plan. “529 plans can be a great way to save for college,” Losey says. “The funds grow tax-deferred and, as long as they’re used for education, you don’t pay tax on the earnings when the money comes out.”

Funds from a 529 plan can be used for tuition, fees, books, computers, and room and board, as well as private K–12 education. There’s also added flexibility: Unused funds can be transferred to another family member or even rolled into a Roth IRA under certain conditions.

part-time jobs, help them learn to save a percentage, spend some and donate some.”

These lessons can prepare students to manage expenses responsibly once they’re on campus — and beyond.

PLANNING WITH PURPOSE

For parents who delay saving for college expenses, planning becomes even more important. Losey recommends meeting with a financial professional to assess what can realistically be saved and how remaining costs will be covered. Families may also plan to pay expenses monthly during the school year, though those payments can be significant.

And scholarships should never be overlooked.

“There are so many opportunities available,” Losey says. “You just need to look for them and apply.”

Ultimately, she says, the most important step is the simplest one.

“Meet with a planning professional, make a plan that works for your family and start saving as early as you can,” Losey says. “That’s the key.”

Maura Keller is a Midwest-based freelance writer and editor.

What women should know before starting a business.

The Courage to Begin With

When Becky Berkan needed the right partner to help her navigate a complex transition from coownership of an existing spa to launching her own practice, she turned to Park Bank.

Berkan, founder of Wilson Aesthetic Company, already had extensive health care experience as a certified emergency nurse and family nurse practitioner. What she didn’t have was an entrepreneurial background.

Park Bank’s Elyse Smithback, first vice president of business banking, helped ease Berkan’s concerns while successfully guiding her through the business ownership process.

Berkan’s Oregon, Wisconsin-based med spa opened its doors last August. The clinic offers a variety of cosmetic services designed to empower the people of Dane County to feel confident — a mission that mirrors the role Smithback played in helping Berkan navigate unfamiliar business territory.

We talked to Berkan about what women should know before starting a business.

What inspired you to start Wilson Aesthetic Company and what impact do you hope to have on the community?

I was born and raised in Oregon, so I wanted to establish a business where my roots are. It’s so important to make sure my patients feel good after their appointments. I have many firsttime patients who come in feeling nervous and vulnerable. I want them to feel very safe and secure.

What helped you manage the financial uncertainty that often comes with launching a business? You can research startup [costs] for med spas and see people saying

Don’t be afraid to ask questions! I think that financial literacy is learned, not assumed.

— Becky Berkan

you need $50,000-$100,000 to start — those are scary numbers. I didn’t want to overextend myself financially, so I leaned heavily on Elyse for guidance on the best approach. It helps to have knowledgeable, supportive people you can count on.

How did working with Park Bank help shape your business?

I know health care, but I don’t know banking — so it was important to work with a bank that knew what I was about. I like that Park Bank is Dane County-focused and dedicated to serving the region. I wasn’t going to borrow a lot of money, but Park Bank helped with cash flow and guided important decisions that really helped me transition from partnership to sole proprietorship.

What money management advice do you have for female founders?

Keep your business finances organized from day one and stick to your business plan. Know your numbers, because that’s how you gauge success. Always consider the

bigger picture, balancing short-term needs with long-term sustainability. Also, don’t be afraid to ask questions! I think that financial literacy is learned, not assumed.

What tips do you have for women hoping to start their own business?

It’s hard to start a business as a woman. If you don’t have a business background, don’t try to do everything on your own. Trust me. I can do health care. I can do aesthetics. But I needed a good banker. A good CPA. A good lawyer. You have to surround yourself with people who can support you in those areas. That’s the key to running a good business.

You don’t need every answer to begin. The courage to start comes first — the right partners help you figure out the rest.

— Elyse Smithback

Local Resources for Female Entrepreneurs and Businesses

SCORE Madison

Offers free business mentoring, small business workshops, and resources to help entrepreneurs start or grow their business.

Wisconsin Women’s Business Initiative Corporation (WWBIC) Madison

Provides individuals interested in starting, strengthening or expanding their business with access to financial products, personal financial training and more.

BRAVA’s Women in Business Event

This annual event in September provides a fast-paced, structured environment for women in business to build connections, engage in speed networking and grow their professional network.

PREPARING FOR CAREER CURVEBALLS

How to thoughtfully deal with a layoff.

BY MAURA KELLER

Alayoff can be one of the most destabilizing moments in a person’s life — not just because of lost income, but because of the emotional strain that often accompanies it. The sudden disruption can shake anyone’s sense of routine, identity and control, creating uncertainty that extends far beyond finances.

Just ask Kristin Wensing, sponsorship and corporate giving officer at the Wisconsin Historical Foundation, who has experienced a layoff.

“I found job loss disorienting,” Wensing says. “It disrupted both the structure of my life and my sense of identity. Work shapes how we move through our day, how we measure progress and even how we describe ourselves. When that suddenly disappeared, I felt unanchored.”

Even when actively job searching, the experience can feel contradictory.

“There’s a strange mix of urgency and waiting while you’re unemployed — you

feel like you need to act quickly, but you have little control over timing,” Wensing says.

According to Amy Schubert, senior vice president and private wealth management Wisconsin market leader for U.S. Bank, resilience during a layoff depends on both mindset and money management.

Creating a clear and honest budget — one that you revisit regularly — helps you identify your true emergency fund needs.

— Amy Schubert

“Resilience from both a mental and a financial perspective during a layoff is critical, and the two are inextricably intertwined,” Schubert says. “When people are in a situation like a layoff, it can cause them to make rash decisions.”

To stay grounded, Schubert encourages individuals to focus on three priorities: getting organized, educating yourself on your options and building a clear plan you can return to during stressful moments.

A strong foundation starts with budgeting and an emergency fund. Schubert advises individuals to maintain savings that cover at least three months of household expenses, working toward six months for primary earners or those with higher fixed costs.

“Creating a clear and honest budget — one [that] you revisit regularly — helps you identify your true emergency fund needs,” she says.

That budget should capture more than just everyday spending. Periodic and often-forgotten expenses — such

as taxes, insurance premiums, tuition, utilities and loan payments — should also be factored in.

“Too often, people underestimate their spending or leave out big expenses that can fall right when you need your emergency fund most,” Schubert notes. Having a clear picture of expenses can provide both financial clarity and peace of mind.

When balancing debt repayment and cash preservation, Schubert encourages prioritizing liquidity.

“Focus first on emergency-fund building,” she says, adding that credit cards shouldn’t take the place of creating a plan and an emergency fund as they can create risk for overspending, which can jeopardize current and future financial stability. “Numerous studies show people spend more when using credit cards than cash, which can create bigger problems down the road,” she continues.

Cash-flow planning is equally important. Essentials such as food, housing,

health care and personal safety should always come first. From there, households can temporarily trim discretionary spending while checking in weekly or biweekly to stay aligned with their plan.

Organization also plays a critical role during a layoff. Schubert recommends documenting employment-related benefits both before and after separation, including severance agreements, recent pay stubs, personal time off balances, equity or commission schedules, and health insurance options.

“The more organized you are, and the more you arm yourself with knowledge and data points, the better off you will be,” she says.

Decisions about severance taxes and retirement accounts add another layer of complexity.

“There are many nuances to 401(k) and other retirement plan decisions,” Schubert explains. While leaving assets in an employer plan can be the simplest

Caring

short-term option, rollovers may offer more flexibility. Cashing out, however, is typically a last resort.

“The critical thing to remember,” she says, “is that you have options. Taking the time to understand any impacts they will make to your financial picture is a necessary step.”

For Wensing, navigating job loss ultimately reshaped how she views stability and control in her career. While no one is ever fully prepared for that kind of disruption — especially when it lasts longer than expected — she approached it with tenacity and hope.

“I focused on adapting: building new routines, staying connected with my network and reframing the experience as an opportunity to learn rather than something to rush through,” Wensing says. “I stayed persistent in my search, while also giving myself grace and time for reflection and activities that helped me maintain balance and perspective throughout the process.”

skinand Heart

STYLE TO THE MAX

The “more is more” approach is alive and well with this design trend.

BY SHELBY DEERING PHOTOGRAPHY BY STOFFER PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY ZANDER’S INTERIORS

There’s a design dilemma that I deal with daily and I’m sure a lot of you can relate — I have a small home, but I love stuff. I love being surrounded by my many thrifted finds, always questing after treasures to add to my abode. I’ve been turning to this visually saturated way of doing things for a while that requires me to get creative with the space that I have and, as it turns out, it has a name, and it’s on trend — maximalism.

While minimalism has had its moment for the last few years, maximalism is now quickly gaining steam. Instead of those sparsely decorated, all-white spaces, maximalism is just the opposite with “bold and saturated colors, lots of different types of patterns, flourishes on anything that can be flourished and a lot of oversized artwork covering the walls,” as Nancy Higgs, owner and lead designer of Insighed Designs, describes it.

Another way to put it? Maximalism “maximizes” your spaces with pretty much as much decor as you please.

Maximalism has sprung up in minimalism’s wake because people are craving cozy interiors that showcase collections and tell a story. But to avoid overpowering, chaotic spaces, there is a right way to go about it.

First of all, you should start small. Higgs recommends leading with a powder room.

“Because it’s a small space, it’s naturally less of an investment in project materials,” she says. “It’s also a room that you don’t spend a lot of time in during each visit, so it’s a good test to see if the style feels comforting or overwhelming.”

Then there’s scale to consider. Chelsea Goeser, interior designer and showroom manager at Zander’s Interiors, says, “Playing with scale is crucial — for example, mixing small-scale prints (i.e., geometrics, dots, animal print) with a large-scale floral moves your eye around the room without getting hung up in awkward empty space.”

And what about your color palette? For this, Higgs recommends utilizing

color drenching (when you use the same color on all the walls, trim and ceiling) as an entry point.

“Stick to rich jewel tones like navy, teal, burgundy and emerald,” she says. “When selecting your color, look at samples in the actual space and on a white background against the trim.”

Gallery walls tend to be a staple of maximalist spaces, but they can also quickly make a space look overly busy. For a spot-on look, Higgs suggests oversized artwork, since fewer pieces will naturally feel calmer.

“Also, the subject and colors within the artwork can vary, but the frame finish should be consistent,” she advises. “Find yourself some quality gold-finish spray paint and turn thrifted frames into the gallery wall of your dreams.”

And while there are certain design guidelines that can streamline a maximalist room and make it look its best, at the end of the day, you just have to do whatever makes your heart happy.

“Design should be fun and there are no true set ‘rules,’ so if it feels right, you should go for it,” Goeser concludes.

Shelby Deering is a freelance lifestyle writer living in Madison.

Vintage Vibes

A main-level revamp yields a more functional floor plan with gorgeous, distinctive decor details throughout.

BY MELANIE RADZICKI MCMANUS PHOTOGRAPHY BY STUDIO A.ZELENKA

Amber and Zak Rottier loved the home they’d been living in for five years. But the home’s main-floor layout wasn’t working for them — namely, the kitchen’s footprint.

“We had a tiny galley kitchen that wasn’t good for our marriage or our sanity,” Amber says.

Zak suggested relocating the stairs down to the basement, which would allow them to enlarge the kitchen and rearrange

The

dining room, painted in Benjamin Moore’s Ruby Dusk, incorporates built-in bookshelves, giving it a comfy, library feel. To soften the space, designer Katie Calnin selected a rattan and linen dome pendant from Crate & Barrel, and Pierce & Ward curved-back chairs covered in juniper velvet (available through West Elm).

the home’s entire first floor. Amber signed on, and they tapped Katie Calnin, founder of Calnin Design Studio, to bring their vision to life.

Calnin’s charge, along with redesigning the main level, was to create an eclectic, whimsical look throughout.

“They didn’t want a run-of-the-mill home,” Calnin says. “They wanted lots of color and drama.”

The result? The couple’s now-spacious kitchen is warmed by a wealth of cherry cabinetry and vintage elements. Taj Mahal quartzite flows over the counters and up the counter splash, forming a cohesive, impactful look.

Previous Page: The airy kitchen features Amish-crafted cherry cabinetry and a 36-inch Wolf transitional induction range that the couple finds very easy to use and clean. But it’s the island that shines, with Dilworth pendant lights from Worley’s Lighting and curved-back reclaimed wood chairs from Etsy, finished in rustic brown.

Above: The breakfast bar, tucked next to the refrigerator, is the perfect spot for the couple’s espresso machine and coffee grinder. Clé Heritage tile in Carpenter’s Canvas forms the backdrop, complementing the Taj Mahal quartzite in the rest of the kitchen.

Bottom: This eye-catching bathroom has a custom vanity and concrete green and white Zia tiles. The tiles are used on the floor and the walls, and the last two feet to the ceiling has vertical white tiles to pull the room together.

Left: The frosted, fluted glass in the kitchen's upper cabinets adds lightness and interest to the room, while obscuring the items inside just enough to hide any messiness or mismatched pieces.

Bottom: All of the kitchen cabinets were Amish-made to ensure a fully customized kitchen. “A lot of these are not standard-sized cabinets,” says Calnin. “We would have had a lot of challenges if we’d gone to a cabinet showroom.”

The adjacent dining room is drenched in color, including the ceiling, while bookshelves cover an entire wall, creating a cozy atmosphere. The home’s new mudroom — which used to be Zak’s unheated workshop — features cheery green cabinetry and plenty of storage space.

“I love all of it,” Amber says. “It was such a huge endeavor, but it was worth it.”

Stronger Than Ever:

How Custom Fitness Specialists Is Redefining Fitness for Women in Midlife

For many women in their 40s and 50s, their bodies can suddenly feel unfamiliar. Energy shifts. Recovery slows. Weight changes. And the routines that once worked seem to stop being effective.

At Custom Fitness Specialists in Madison, that frustrating chapter becomes the beginning of something powerful.

Founded on the belief that women deserve more than quick fixes and crowded gyms, Custom Fitness Specialists has built a reputation for helping women feel strong, confident and in control of their health — especially during perimenopause and postmenopause.

Unlike traditional fitness centers, Custom Fitness Specialists operates with an intentional small-group model. Strength training sessions are capped at just eight people, allowing coaches to provide individualized attention, correct form and tailor workouts to each client’s needs.

“With only eight people in a session, no one gets lost,” says founder Lisa Feran. “We can truly coach, not just supervise.”

Each session focuses on progressive strength training — helping women build muscle, protect bone density, improve metabolism and support long-term health. For many members, it’s the first time they’ve lifted weights with confidence.

But physical strength is only part of the equation. Roughly 60% of Custom Fitness Specialists’ business centers on personalized nutrition coaching. Clients have the option to work one on one with a dedicated nutrition coach who creates sustainable, customized plans based on lifestyle, preferences and goals.

There are no extreme diets or rigid meal plans. Instead, women learn how to fuel their bodies for energy, recovery, longevity and body composition.

“Many women come to us frustrated and confused about their bodies changing in a way that feels out of their control,” Feran explains. “Things that used to work for them are no longer working. Sometimes it’s not about working harder — it’s about working smarter. We educate them, help them understand what’s happening in their bodies and give them tools to feel better.”

That education leads to powerful results. Members gain strength, improve body composition and rediscover confidence. Women in their 50s hit personal records. Busy professionals regain energy. Mothers and grandmothers feel capable and resilient again.

Yet perhaps the most meaningful transformation is internal. Custom Fitness Specialists has cultivated a supportive, uplifting community where

women celebrate progress together and feel genuinely seen.

“This is a place where women are respected and supported,” Feran says. “They’re learning to trust their bodies again.”

In a culture that often tells women to accept decline with age, Custom Fitness Specialists offers a different message:

Strength has no expiration date. With expert coaching, personalized nutrition and unwavering support, the studio is helping women step into midlife feeling stronger than ever — physically, mentally and emotionally.

For its members, this isn’t just a gym — it’s where their strongest chapter begins.

customfitnessspecialists.com

6723 Seybold Rd., Madison

802B Lois Dr., Sun Prairie

Fitness Studio: Custom Fitness Specialists

Nutritionist winner: Ron Gratz

Personal Training winner: Ron Gratz

Nutritionist finalist: Lisa Feran

Personal Training finalist: Lisa Feran

LUXURY BEGINS WITH INTENTION

True luxury isn’t excess. It’s a home designed with purpose. For 40 years, Dream House Dream Kitchens has helped Madison-area families create homes that feel refined, purposeful and deeply personal. Founded in 1986 by Keven Schmidt and rooted in generations of cabinetmaking craftsmanship, the family-owned company has built its reputation on an uncompromising standard of quality and detail. Today, the legacy continues with his three children Jerry, Chris and Sara leading the business forward with the same disciplined approach to design and construction.

“Luxury should feel effortless,” says Jerry Schmidt. “When a home is thoughtfully designed and expertly built, it simply works beautifully and quietly around your life.” That philosophy shapes every project.

It may begin with organization: a custom mudroom tailored to Wisconsin’s seasons, a garage with seamlessly integrated storage, or a boutique-style closet designed for clarity and calm. It extends into kitchens crafted with precision cabinetry, layered lighting and refined materials that are selected based on longevity not on what’s trendy. Bathrooms become restorative spaces. Basements transform into welcoming extensions of the home.

For some families, intention means reimagining the entire house, creating cohesion from room to room so that architecture, materials and flow feel aligned. The result isn’t showy. It’s balanced. Composed. Elevated.

What distinguishes Dream House Dream Kitchens is its integrated team of designers and builders working collaboratively from concept through completion. Their structured, transparent process provides clarity at every stage from initial concepts and material selections to budgeting

and construction ensuring a seamless, well-managed experience. With four decades of experience, and numerous industry honors recognizing craftsmanship and design excellence, the company brings both creative vision and technical mastery to every detail. Clients often describe the experience as organized, collaborative and reassuring, with craftsmanship that exceeds expectations and spaces that feel even better than imagined.

Because true luxury reveals itself over time. In the way cabinetry closes with precision. In the ease of a well-planned kitchen. In the quiet confidence of a space that feels entirely your own.

After 40 years, Dream House Dream Kitchens continues to help Madison-area families elevate the everyday not through excess, but through intention.

When a home is thoughtfully designed and expertly built, it simply works — beautifully and quietly — around your life.

— Jerry Schmidt, partner/sales director

CURB APPEAL THAT PROTECTS

Your home’s curb appeal is about more than just looking good — properly installed roofing, siding and gutters protect your property from damage and boosts its longevity. Dawn Dolbeau, owner of Panther Exteriors & Contracting, shares the latest in home exterior trends.

What exterior updates give homeowners the biggest curb-appeal boost for the least investment?

Homeowners looking to enhance their curb appeal on a budget can have their home pressure-washed, wrap their

garage and window trim in custom bent metal, or change out their garage door.

Which exterior trends are popular right now — and which ones stand the test of time?

Homeowners are seeking to update their slim-profile siding to wide-plank composite or ASCEND Composite Cladding. [ASCEND] looks like LP

SmartSide ExpertFinish Trim & Siding or Hardie-brand siding, and has a realistic wood grain appearance — but is half the price to install. It’s low maintenance, class A fire-rated, moisture resistant and durable, and it has UV protection and a lifetime limited warranty.

WHAT’S SHAPING HOME DESIGN

What’s the latest in home-building trends? Allison Kramper, project administrator at Urso Builders, a custom home builder and renovation firm, fills us in.

Pocket Offices and Personalized Workspaces

Homeowners continue to request pocket offices designed for working from home. These smaller, tucked-away spaces feel functional yet cozy, blending seamlessly into the home while providing privacy and focus.

Dedicated Exercise Rooms

More homeowners are incorporating exercise areas into their floor plans. Whether it’s a fully equipped home gym or a smaller fitness space, clients value the convenience of having a private, personalized area to support their health and wellness goals.

Gourmet Kitchens

Kitchen footprints are becoming larger and more functional, outfitted with oversized islands that provide seating, prep space and storage. Homeowners

want gourmet-style layouts that feel elevated for entertaining while still being functional for everyday life.

The readers have spoken! You voted for your favorite dog parks, lunch spots, shopping destinations, cocktail lounges and more. From essential services to special-occasion standouts, these winners reflect the best of our community.

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at Marigold Kitchen, choosing among flavorful and inventive takes on morning classics. Linger in the sunny cafe before taking a spin around the Dane County Farmers’ Market, the country’s largest producers-only farmers’ market that brings more than a hundred vendors selling cheese, honey, veggies, flowers and more on the Capitol Square. After the market, continue your stroll down State Street, popping into Little Luxuries for artful and thoughtful gifts, and The Soap Opera for bath and skincare goodies. Hungry? Grab a BCycle (a station near Overture Center has both classic and electric bicycles

for rent) and pedal over to Sardine for a late brunch. At the lakeside bistro, dig into oysters on the half shell, salmon tartine or croque monsieur — and don’t skip the frites! Afterward, hop back on your bike and venture southward to catch the Capital City State Trail, a paved 17-mile path that winds to Fitchburg. Cycle as long as you’d like, then simply ride the trail back downtown, returning your bike at a BCycle station. You’ve more than earned some chill time, so duck into Young Blood Beer Co.’s King Street taproom. With a refreshing brew in hand, find a seat in the wood- and plantfilled interior or at a table outside, and soak up the energy

What’s the best way to spend a beautiful Saturday in the city? By letting Raves & Faves winners guide your way!

of this fun-loving brewery. Dinnertime takes you to nearby Tornado Club Steak House . Dimly lit with classic supper-club vibes, the restaurant is both romantic and relaxed. Steaks (bone-in tenderloin, New York strip, ribeye, T-bone and more) are the star, but venison, lamb, pork and walleye also feature on the menu. After dinner, walk the Capitol Square once more to reach Eno Vino Downtown, perched on the 10th floor of the AC Hotel. Order a glass of wine, take in unparalleled views of the Capitol and toast to a fantastic day in downtown Madison. – Katie Vaughn

Each of this year’s winning supper clubs has their merits and moods.

TORNADO CLUB STEAK HOUSE

The vibey wood dining room with white tablecloths here is perfect for intimate meals, while the lounge brings a cool factor most places lack, with curving booths, killer cocktails and a late-night menu that can be enjoyed at the bar. This spot brings a bit more flair to its steaks — such as the filet au poivre, an entree of local, grass-fed beef with a peppercorn crust and topped with mushroom cognac cream. Don’t miss the coquille Saint Jacques appetizer: scallops poached in white wine cream, served over mashed potatoes.

TOBY’S SUPPER CLUB

With a small-town fine-dining vibe and convivial atmosphere, Toby’s is famous for its fish fry (cod, perch and bluegill). Prices for surf-and-turf options here are a bit lower than other area supper clubs, too. Along with the traditional relish tray, Toby’s has cheesy hash browns and deep-fried butterfly shrimp. Don’t forget to order that old fashioned at the bar as you wait for your table.

WOOD, WARMTH AND ORGANIC LIVING

This trend embraces a return to warmer tones through rich, natural materials that translate into calm, grounded interiors. Exposed ceiling beams, walnut and oak cabinetry, and reclaimed wood all bring texture and authenticity into the home.

Organic shapes in furniture and architecture soften spaces (think curved lines), while mixed materials like stone, plaster and linen add depth. Homeowners are moving away from stark, all-white interiors in favor of handcrafted details, warm stains and imperfect textures that feel collected, timeless and connected to nature.

SEAMLESS INDOOROUTDOOR LIVING

This concept blurs the boundaries between interior spaces and the outdoors through copious windows, sliding or folding glass doors, and fully furnished outdoor rooms. Covered patios, screened porches and outdoor kitchens transform exterior areas into everyday living spaces, not just entertaining zones. Fire features, heaters and layered lighting make these spaces functional almost year-round. Being surrounded by nature also supports mental wellness by maximizing natural light, fresh air, and connection to the outdoors. Bonus: These spaces can boost your long-term property value, too.

HTHE DEL-BAR

Designed by a Frank Lloyd Wright protege, The Del-Bar’s Prairie Style building is distinct, beautiful and architecturally significant. Prime-aged steaks can be ordered with enhancers as simple as bone marrow butter or Oscar style, consisting of crabmeat, steamed asparagus and bearnaise sauce. Oysters are on the menu — but so are Sassy Cow cheese curds.

– Kevin Revolinski

ome design has evolved toward rooms that feel more intentional, personal and conducive to how people truly live. Autumn Cartee, project designer with Architectural Building Arts, Inc. (winner of the home design and architecture category), shares three trends she’s seeing right now.

BOLD PERSONALIZATION

Have you heard of maximalist style? (If not, turn to P. 25!) Homeowners are increasingly confident mixing bold and neutral colors, inspired by social media and a desire to move beyond “safe” design choices. Wallpaper might be employed in unexpected places, rich paint colors can pair with warm woods and two-toned cabinetry adds flair. Patterned tile, coordinated textiles and statement hardware can turn everyday elements into design features. The results are layered, expressive interiors filled with custom details and dramatic focal points.

– Maura Keller

Check out the sweet spots that may go unnoticed on these winning

hiking trails.

UW ARBORETUM

Linger on the dock in Teal Pond and you’ll spot hiding waterfowl. On fallen branches, you’ll also see turtles lining up. Pass through the tunnel under the Beltline to reach the quieter Grady Tract, home to an oak savanna and a boardwalk that winds through the often-soggy Greene Prairie, where baby turtles sometimes make an appearance.

PHEASANT BRANCH CONSERVANCY

A trek up Frederick’s Hill for effigy mound viewing and a Capitol building vista is a must.

But once you reach this area, follow the grassy trail through the prairie to a viewing platform. Here, springs bubble up hypnotically, as if the sands are boiling.

INDIAN LAKE COUNTY PARK

While the historic St. Mary of the Oaks chapel on the hill and its sweeping overlook in this spot are don’t-miss sights, follow this trail along the highway side of the lake (along the park’s western boundary) through willows, cattails and cottonwoods. The soft breeze through the leaves is enough, but you can also catch great views of waterfowl. – Kevin Revolinski

As someone who has covered the local retail scene extensively, I loved seeing this year’s clothing boutique category winners — each has its own niche. Zoe Schuler’s Z Boutique has been around for 13 years — an amazing run for the city’s only plus-size clothing shop. As Schuler shared with me when I interviewed her back in 2023, “About 70% of women in the U.S. are plus size. I kept thinking, ‘There has to be somewhere [local] I can shop at. And if I’m thinking that, then I’m sure other women around here want that, too.’” Cosa Boutique not only offers upscale brands (Vince, Rhone, Paige), but owner Amanda Hoechst donates a percentage of Cosa’s monthly profits to area nonprofits. Lisa McGuire’s Cloth & Metal Boutique also has a stellar selection of everyday, stylish pieces. But look closely at the sterling silver jewelry she sells: A skilled metalsmith and jewelry maker, she handcrafts most of the sterling silver jewelry she sells. – Shayna Mace

Insider’s Guide

As own er of the Living in Madison Real Estate Group, Mari Slobounov found that clients wanted to know what it really feels like to live here. So she launched Living in Madison, an Instagram account that “shows Madison beyond listings: the neighborhoods, the culture, the food, the events, the everyday moments that make people fall in love with living here,” she explains.

What’s your favorite part of living in Madison?

The people. I’ve lived in Seattle, California and Washington, DC, and I’ve never experienced a place where people are as genuinely so kind and community-driven as they are in Madison. There’s a real sense of connection here and people show up for one another.

We get the tea from the winners in the local influencer category.

Audio Empowerment

Tune in to “Spirit of a Badass” to feel seen and inspired. On the podcast, health and life coach Alecia Jacobson shares stories and interviews of resilient women, tackling topics spanning from women’s health to parenting to motivation to activism. “I just want to make a big-ass impact on the world,” Jacobson says, “and my way of doing that is one conversation at a time.”

What do you hope women get from listening to your podcast?

I hope they get the information and inspiration. They need to go out and make an impact because a strong, informed, healthy woman has momentum and can change her world for the better that will ripple out into her career, her family, her friends.

Hungry for Experiences

ome to Midwest Munchers for restaurant recommendations; stay for Jordan and Mike Decello’s coverage of travel, recipes and supper clubs across the Midwest, delivered with humor and upbeat energy. On their blog and Instagram account (boasting more than 260,000 followers), the couple have created “a scrapbook of our very best Midwesty life,” Jordan says.

What makes a great supper club?

The bartenders who pour a stiff drink. The fish fry. The low lighting and wood paneling that makes you feel like you’re in your grandma’s basement! The waitress is probably someone in town you know. The old fashioneds. The relish tray. Ahhhhh, all the best things in life!

What’s the buzziest restaurant in the Madison area right now?

Honestly, we’re not about the buzz. Skip the fast pace and buzzy restaurants. I want a solid meal that never disappoints. If you’re looking for that, check out Toby’s Supper Club in Madison!

– Katie Vaughn

It’s all about strategic shopping and searching at these secondhand store winners.

DANE COUNTY HUMANE SOCIETY THRIFT STORE

Best for: Fantastic secondhand finds for the whole family, with everything from clothes and shoes to holiday decor, home goods, books, games, accessories and more.

Coolest items that have come in: “Incredible things are always donated! Just this month, we got a Cartier LOVE bracelet valued at thousands of dollars, vintage wooden stadium seats, a U-shaped sectional sofa, thousands of comic books and an art print of Ron Swanson holding a cat in a sea of bacon,” says manager Shelbi Bernard.

Key secondhand shopping advice: “Stop by often! Thrift stores are constantly putting out new items and there is no telling when the treasures you’re looking for will hit the sales floor,” says Bernard.

STYLE ENCORE –MADISON

Best for: Gently used, size-inclusive clothing for men and women from popular brands. Find something for every occasion, including dresses, closet staples, activewear, outerwear, office wear, shoes, jewelry and handbags.

Coolest items that have come in: “ brings surprises! We love receiving current items that are new with tags — usually because the return deadline was missed. And of course, everyone gets excited when an amazing luxury handbag comes in,” says owner Diane Krause-Stetson.

Key secondhand shopping advice: [dazzled] by the brand. Take the time to peruse the vast selection in every category and in every size — you never know what you will find,” says Krause-Stetson.

THE PINK POODLE

Best for: Upscale resale, including designer fashion and high-end labels, along with vintage items — handbags, hats, dresses, costume and fine jewelry, suits, belts and other accessories.

Coolest items that have come in: “Once, a teacher came in wanting to consign a handbag that had been gifted to her by a student. It turned out to be an authentic Chanel piece and she had no idea! Luckily for [our] store shoppers, she still decided to consign it,” says owner Beth Testa.

Key secondhand shopping advice: “If you see something and you are on the fence about it, just go for it! Many people return for finds [that] they couldn’t stop thinking about, and unfortunately, they’ve already sold,” says Testa. – Katrina Simyab

impact, says Jenny Ragatz, interior designer at Linen & Clove, the winner in the home decor category. Ragatz highlights affordable ways to elevate your space without a major makeover.

LAYER TEXTILES FOR INSTANT WARMTH

Swapping out pillows, throws or area rugs is one of the fastest ways to refresh a room. Textures like linen, boucle, wool and jute add depth, while subtle patterns keep things visually interesting without overwhelming a space. Even a neutral sofa can feel brand new with layered textiles.

DECOR SHOULD FEEL COLLECTED

Ceramic vases, trays, bowls and sculptural objects add personality when chosen thoughtfully. Mixing styles and incorporating personal mementos, like travel finds or meaningful objects creates a space that feels curated and lived-in rather than staged.

USE ART AS A FOCAL POINT

Artwork defines a space, whether through a large statement piece or a gallery wall. Affordable prints, photographs or framed textiles can look upscale in the right size and with proper placement.

EMPLOY GREENERY AND NATURAL ELEMENTS

Faux greenery and seasonal stems bring softness and life to a room — without the maintenance.

Styled in organic pottery or textured vases, they offer an effortless way to add warmth.

EDIT DOWN BEFORE ADDING PIECES

Sometimes the best upgrade is removing excess. Clearing visual clutter allows key pieces to shine and instantly makes a space feel more refined — at no cost.

– Maura Keller

BAKERY: Bloom Bake Shop

Check out these favorites at a few of our category winners.

The biscuits here are a nod to owner Annemarie Maitri’s Southern roots, made with Organic Valley buttermilk, King Arthur flour and Grassland non-GMO butter. Try ’em in the Wisconsin biscuit sandwich, which folds in Pasture Patterns eggs, Fischer Family Farms smoked bacon, Cedar Grove mild white cheddar and a dollop of Local Folks stoneground mustard.

COFFEE SHOP: Ancora Cafe + Bakery

Start your day with a cold brew to balance the heat of a Hella Stella, a scrambled egg sammie with sausage (you can also sub in veggie sausage), cheddar, tomato, arugula and a touch of tangy spice, courtesy of mango sriracha. It’s served on a Stella’s Bakery Original Hot & Spicy Cheese Bread roll. Yum!

DINNER: Buck & Honey’s

TA’s Hot Comby features salami, ham and pepperoni on a toasted Madison Sourdough hoagie, topped with green peppers, onions and melted mozzarella cheese. It comes with house-made creamy Italian dressing, both on the sandwich and on the side for dipping.

LUNCH: Forage Kitchen

The 100% vegan power bowl rocks: organic black rice, rosemary lentils, roasted sweet potatoes, poblano cabbage slaw, guacamole and green onion, served with avocado-based green goddess dressing. Make it your own with protein adds — the roasted tempeh and tuna poke are great. You an even swap the rice for mixed greens or quinoa.

ICE CREAM: Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream

Having kids in tow is not a requirement to enjoy this Madison-made, premium ice cream crafted with Sassy Cow Creamery milk. The spectacular Exhausted Parent flavor is espresso-laced ice cream with chunks of bittersweet chocolate and spiked with a bit of bourbon flavor — but don’t worry, there’s no alcohol in it!

– Kevin Revolinski

BROW/LASH STUDIO

Opal Beauty + Wellness

Kneaded Relief Day Spa & Wellness

NurturHer Aesthetics

CLOTHING BOUTIQUE

Z Boutique

Cosa Boutique

Cloth & Metal Boutique

Cosmetic Center

Dr. Ahmed Afifi, UW Health

Dr. Andrew Campbell, Quintessa Aesthetic Center

DAY SPA

Kneaded Relief Day Spa & Wellness

Sundara Inn & Spa

A Better Body Massage Therapy

ESTHETICIAN

Kara McCann, Radiance Skin

Therapy & Laser Center

Katie Thorsen, Radiance Skin Therapy & Laser Center

Rachel Rozeboom, Radiance Skin Therapy & Laser Center

EYEWEAR

Ulla Eyewear

Sokol Advanced EyeCare

Isthmus Eye Care

GIFT SHOP

Orange Tree Imports

Little Luxuries

The Soap Opera

HAIR REMOVAL

Radiance Skin Therapy & Laser Center

NurturHer Aesthetics

Ethos Medical Spa

HAIR SALON

Ecco Salon

Killer Mane Salon

Au Fait Hair

JEWELER

Chalmers Jewelers

Goodman’s Jewelers

Middleton Jewelers

MED SPA

Radiance Skin Therapy & Laser Center

Wilson Aesthetic Company

ANEU Med Spa

NAIL SALON

Bliss Nail Bar

Kneaded Relief Day Spa & Wellness

Diamond Nails & Spa

SECONDHAND STORE

Dane County Humane Society

Thrift Store

Style Encore - Madison

The Pink Poodle

HOME & AUTO

AUTO

DEALER

Zimbrick Honda

Smart Motors Toyota

Don Miller Subaru West

AUTO

MECHANIC

Conant Automotive

Monona Motors

West Town Monona Tire

FLORIST

Felly’s Flowers

Klein’s Floral & Greenhouses

Sun Prairie Flowers by Hen & Chick

FURNITURE STORE

Don’s Home Furniture

Waunakee Furniture ETC

Rubin’s Furniture

GARDEN CENTER

Kopke’s Greenhouse

Warm Belly Farm

K&A Greenhouse

HEATING & COOLING COMPANY

Cardinal Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electric

RG Heating, Cooling & Plumbing

BETHKE Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc.

HOME BUILDER

Classic Custom Homes of Waunakee

Espire

Hart DeNoble Builders

HOME DECOR

Linen & Clove

The Cozy Home

Don’s Home Furniture

HOME DESIGN & ARCHITECTURE

Architectural Building Arts

Waunakee Remodeling

Chads Design Build

HOME REMODELER

Architectural Building Arts

Waunakee Remodeling

Chads Design Build

INTERIOR DESIGN

Linen & Clove

Waunakee Furniture ETC

Classic Custom Homes of Waunakee

KITCHEN & BATH DESIGN

Waunakee Remodeling

Architectural Building Arts

Chads Design Build

LANDSCAPING COMPANY

The Bruce Company formecology LLC

Ganshert Landscapes

POOL & SPA COMPANY

Patio Pleasures Pools & Spas

Bachmanns Pools, Spas & Saunas

Olson Toon

REAL ESTATE COMPANY

Living In Madison Real Estate Group

First Weber Real Estate Services

Badger Realty Group

REALTOR

Kelly Bennett & Associates, First Weber

Mari Slobounov, Living In Madison Real

Estate Group

Donna Labarge, Badger Realty Team

RESIDENTIAL PAINTING COMPANY

Megna Painting

The Painter Lady

Genesis Painting

ROOFING COMPANY

Ridge Top Exteriors

Sims

Panther Exteriors and Contracting

SOLAR ENERGY COMPANY

Everlight Solar

Full Spectrum Solar

Drews Solar

TILE & FLOORING STORE

Sergenian’s Floor Coverings

CTW Design Center

Nonn’s

WINDOW & SIDING COMPANY

Waunakee Remodeling

Jordan Exteriors

Ganser Company

COMMUNITY & LIFESTYLE

55 - PLUS RESIDENTIAL COMMUNITY

Oakwood Village

Cardinal View Senior Living

All Saints Neighborhood

BIKING TRAIL

Capital City State Trail

Military Ridge State Trail

Glacial Drumlin State Trail

BOOKSTORE

A Room of One’s Own

Mystery to Me

The Book Deal

DANCE STUDIO

Kehl School of Dance

Studio 360

Monona Academy of Dance

DOG PARK

Dairy Ridge Dog Run

Prairie Moraine Dog Park

Viking County Park

FAVORITE MAIN STREET

Baraboo

Mount Horeb

Stoughton

FESTIVAL

Brat Fest

Fête de Marquette

Syttende Mai

GROCERY STORE

Willy Street Co-op

Miller & Sons Supermarket

Metcalfe’s Market

HIKING TRAIL

UW Arboretum

Pheasant Branch Conservancy

Indian Lake County Park

LOCAL FARMERS’ MARKET

Dane County Farmers’ Market

Westside Community Market

Northside Farmers’ Market

LOCAL INFLUENCER

Living In Madison Spirit of a Badass

Midwest Munchers

PARK

Tenney Park

Sun Prairie Dream Park

Garner Park

PERSONAL COACH

Olga Aydinyan Health and Wellness Coaching

Alecia Jacobson Coaching

Kari Mysker, Ether Wellness

PET STORE

Mounds Pet Food Warehouse

Tabby & Jack’s

bad dog frida

WEEKEND GETAWAY

DESTINATION

Door County

Sundara Inn & Spa

Galena, Illinois

DINING, DRINKS & ENTERTAINMENT

BAKERY

Bloom Bake Shop

Batch Bakehouse

Fosdal Home Bakery

BAR/LOUNGE

Lola’s Hi/Lo Lounge

Eno Vino

The Wine Reserve

BREAKFAST

Marigold Kitchen

Era Cafe

Kozy Nuk Cafe

BREWERY

New Glarus Brewing Company

Young Blood Beer Co.

Delta Beer Lab

BRUNCH

Marigold Kitchen

Sardine

Cafe Hollander

COFFEE SHOP

Ancora Cafe + Bakery

Firefly Coffeehouse

MOKA

DATE NIGHT DINING

Tornado Club Steak House

The Harvey House

Eno Vino

DINNER

Buck & Honey’s

Quivey’s Grove

Kettle Black Kitchen

FAMILY FUN SPOT

Henry Vilas Zoo

Vitense Golfland

Madison Children’s Museum

ICE CREAM

Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream

Babcock Dairy Store

Michael’s Frozen Custard

LUNCH

Forage Kitchen

Off Broadway Drafthouse

Saigon Noodles

OUTDOOR DINING

Buck & Honey’s, Monona

Cafe Hollander

La Brioche True Food

PIZZA

Sugar River Pizza Company

Ian’s Pizza by the Slice

Glass Nickel Pizza Co.

SUPPER CLUB

Tornado Club Steak House

Toby’s Supper Club

The Del-Bar

VEGETARIAN/VEGAN

Forage Kitchen

Green Owl Cafe

Banzo

WINERY

Wollersheim Winery & Distillery

Bailey’s Run Vineyard & Winery

Cambridge Winery

HEALTH & WELLBEING

ACUPUNCTURIST

Dr. Qin Yan, China Spring Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine

Noah Fulton, Inner Wisdom Acupuncture and Wellness

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Dr. Amy Anderson, Chiropractic, Craniosacral, & Lactation Counseling

Dr. Laura Konopacki, Body

Wave Chiropractic

Dr. Sara Nelson, Madison Chiropractic

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First Choice Dental

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Associated Dentists

DENTIST

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Custom Fitness Specialists

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Ron Gratz, Custom Fitness Specialists

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Dr. Kathryn A. Cahill, Associated Physicians

Dr. Katherine Lemon, UW Health

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UW Health

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Dr. Amanda Preimesberger, rootsMD Direct Care Family Medicine

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NO KIDDING

NO KIDDING

As families shoulder rising costs, child care providers and advocates say the early education care model in Wisconsin remains underfunded and financially unsustainable.

BY MARYBETH MATZEK PHOTOGRAPHY BY HILLARY SCHAVE

“I can’t pay my [staff] less. I need to pay them what I do to keep them. We’re such a fragile industry right now. We’re just all hanging on and doing the best we can.”

— Heather Murray

Amanda Sherer feels like she can’t win.

The Waunakee mom worked part-time from home after she and her husband adopted their daughter in 2019. She eventually enrolled her daughter in part-time child care before transitioning her to full time and returning to work herself full time. That same week, Sherer found out she was pregnant.

“I work in nonprofits and after putting the numbers down on paper, it quickly became clear that having two kids in daycare, especially an infant, was not going to work,” says Sherer, who pulled her daughter from daycare after her son was born and began working part-time from home around caring for her children.

In January 2026, with her daughter now in school and her son past the expensive under-age two rates, Sherer enrolled him in child care and is back to working full-time outside the home.

“The whole child care system is just nuts. It’s super expensive for parents. The workers don’t get paid much. The centers aren’t making money. Other parents I talk to are struggling,” Sherer says.

Sherer is not alone in her assessment.

For years, the early childhood education industry has been challenging for parents to navigate and afford while remaining chronically underfunded.

Since 2020, short-term federal funds have offered a critical lifeline for Wisconsin providers. This funding peaked in 2022 and has steadily declined since, with all remaining payments scheduled to end in June 2026.

There’s nothing waiting to take its place.

“This is going to lead to higher prices for families,” says Heather Murray, owner and director of Arthouse Preschool LLC in Waunakee and a 2025 BRAVA Woman to Watch. “I’ve already warned my families that an increase is likely coming. I can’t pay my people less. I need to pay them what I do to keep them. We’re such a fragile industry right now. We’re just all hanging on and doing the best we can.”

“A lack of child care can stall economic growth, which is why businesses should care about this issue. They need to have their employees at work and they understand how important child care is to that equation.”

— Paula Drew

STRUCTURAL CHALLENGES

Even as families face steep costs, many child care centers struggle to stay afloat.

Murray says the system in Wisconsin — and in most states — isn’t financially sustainable. At Arthouse, she says families pay about $1,400 a month for infant and toddler tuition, but the actual cost of care is $2,400, which includes salaries, food, supplies and building-related costs, such as utilities and insurance.

Wisconsin is one of only six states that until recently invested no additional public dollars into child care beyond federal funding and required state matching funds. For the first time, the Wisconsin 2025–2027 bipartisan biennial budget set aside $65 million in general-purpose revenue for Get Kids Ready, a program aimed at financially supporting school readiness for

four-year-olds in child care programs that don’t provide four-year-old kindergarten (4K) through state-funded school districts. It launches in July.

Amy Kesling, a Madison mom of three children, ages nine, four and an infant, says paying for child care is as expensive as paying for college, “but there are no scholarships for it and no one is saving up for it.”

A co-owner of a small business, she says paying for child care is challenging, especially when you have more than one child. “It’s a decision each family needs to make and sometimes you just need to do it because you need to work,” Kesling says.

Adding to the cost of child care, Kesling says not all mothers receive paid leave after their child is born, putting them at a “deficit and then [they’re] faced with a child care bill after that.”

“The whole child care system is just nuts. It’s super expensive for parents. The workers don’t get paid much. The centers aren’t making money. Other parents I talk to are struggling.”

— Amanda Sherer

While Kesling received 60% of her salary for six weeks tapping into her short-term disability policy and some PTO, she says it didn’t come close to replacing her full salary for 12 weeks. Adding to her family’s stress, her youngest spent time in the NICU, creating thousands in medical debt.

“If we could figure out free child care and free health care, that would be great,” Kesling says.

Child care has structural economic challenges, says Paula Drew, director of early childhood education policy and research at the Wisconsin Early Childhood Association (WECA). To make the numbers work, “child care needs to be recognized as a public good and receive public funds,” she says.

Direct and significant funding to child care providers first entered the picture in Wisconsin during the pandemic when child care providers were declared essential workers.

“For people to go to work, they realized we needed to have child care,” Drew says.

The state distributed federal funds to child care providers so centers could increase pay to retain employees, and help pay rent and other basic costs to keep facilities open. When those federal funds dried up, the state used interest from unspent American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 funding as a stopgap measure to continue paying subsidies to centers based off of the number of employees and enrolled children a center had. But all of that funding

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“We’re part of the education system and children learn the most in their first five years. Schools couldn’t survive without public funding and child care providers should receive that same funding.”

— Jenn Bilderback

steadily decreased the last few years and all of it will cease this June.

That will lead to hard choices, including tuition increases, for child care centers, Murray says. The last time she raised her rates, two families decided they could no longer afford child care and the moms quit work to stay home with the children. Last year in the U.S., 400,000 women ages 18 to 40 nationwide left the workforce. While not all of them left for child care reasons, for many, child care likely played a role in that decision.

“Society is set up in such a way that you need both parents to work. Everything is so expensive. I had to work so we could have health insurance,” says Jenn Bilderback, the administrative director of Big Oak Child Care Center of Madison.

Drew says with so many women leaving the workforce, it can be hard for businesses to grow. According to a survey conducted by KW2 in coordination with the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families (DCF), 86% of surveyed Wisconsin employees agree that without access to affordable early child care, Wisconsin businesses will face workforce or labor shortages now or in the future.

“A lack of child care can stall economic growth, which is why businesses should care about this issue,” she says. “They need to have their employees at work and they understand how important child care is to that equation.”

Once federal funds cease in June, Drew says some child care centers may decide to close down if they can’t make the numbers add up, which then adds to the continued shortage of child care availability.

“It’s an exasperating situation,” she says.

WHAT CAN BE DONE?

While prices increase for families, there are fewer open spots for children. A WECA study found that 25% of educators leave the early childhood education field each year, which steadily erodes the capacity of child care programs. Statewide, child care programs operate at 75% of their licensing capacity due to staffing

May Be an Issue in the Governor’s Race

With it being an election year, advocates say there won’t be any more meaningful changes once the current state child care subsidy to providers ends on June 30.

But it may provide an ideal time for the issue to draw some much-needed attention, says Heather Murray, owner and director of Arthouse Preschool LLC in Waunakee.

“Candidates know that child care is an issue,” she says, adding that four Democratic candidates for governor — Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley, former Lieutenant Gov. Mandela Barnes, State Rep. Francesca Hong and State Sen. Kelda Roys — have all brought up the idea of universal free child care.

“No one has talked about how they’ll pay for it, but it’s something they’re talking about. Maybe if a Democrat wins the governor’s race and ... the Legislature, I can see a chance for it,” notes Murray wistfully.

There are several states in the country, including New Mexico and New York, with subsidized child care or universal, free child care that depend on a variety of funding mechanisms.

“There are some wonderful examples out there,” says Paula Drew, director of early childhood education policy and research at the Wisconsin Early Childhood Association. “Most use excise taxes, sin taxes, lottery taxes — things like that.”

However bleak things may feel right now, Drew asserts that the child care conversation is in a much better place than it was just a few years ago.

“We’re on a positive trajectory and things are getting better. I’m hopeful about it,” Drew says.

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shortages, leaving 33,090 unfilled child care spots.

Drew says the hiring pool for child care workers continues to shrink and centers are unable to maximize their space.

“Child care has historically paid low wages and many of these people have associate’s or higher degrees — but they can go to Kwik Trip and get paid more and get benefits,” she says. “Women — and it’s mostly women in these roles — feel like their work is not being valued.”

Murray agrees. When she opened Arthouse 20 years ago, she had room and staffing for 65 children. She now has room for 30 — “primarily because I can’t keep teachers. I don’t want to over-enroll. I feel comfortable being able to staff for 30 students.”

If centers don’t invest in wages, staff members will work elsewhere, Bilderback says.

“There are a lot of unknowns in the future. Right now, we do what we

can to find different grants or special programs that we can apply for and find a way to lower costs, but our goal is to find something long-term that provides us with funding,” she says. “It’s just very challenging out there right now for providers.”

The structure Bilderback advocates for would mirror the funding public schools receive.

“We’re part of the education system and children learn the most in their first five years. Schools couldn’t survive without public funding and child care providers should receive that same funding,” she says.

The 2025-2027 bipartisan biennial budget provided one more year of direct funding to child care providers with federal funds and added a new program with state funds to support four-yearolds in child care centers to help them to prepare for kindergarten. The program, Get Kids Ready, is for child care

Child Care Facts

• 25% of educators leave the early child care education field each year, an outflow that has steadily eroded child care program capacity.

Group early child care education providers are under-enrolled, leaving seats and classrooms empty. These programs operate at only about 75% of their licensed capacity, resulting in a total of approximately 33,090 unfilled child care spots.

An estimated 4,000 additional educators are needed to meet current licensed capacity.

42% of women reported they had to cut back on hours or quit a job due to child care costs.

• A 10% decrease in child care cost is associated with up to double-digit gains in maternal employment.

Source: Wisconsin Early Childhood Association Center for Policy, Research and Engagement

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programs that do not offer 4K programs through local school districts that already receive state funding. According to the DCF, 40% of group child care programs and 20% of family child care programs have applied to participate in the Get Kids Ready program.

“My take on this is that the state dedicates a decent amount of generalpurpose revenue to our four-year-olds through 4K and now Get Kids Ready. But there’s [still] no state funding for

children ages zero to three [in this], and only 10% of child care slots are dedicated to infants. So we’re forgetting about our younger kids that arguably need the most high-quality care,” notes Drew.

Echoes Murray: “When I was in the Capitol lobbying for public funds for child care, that wasn’t quite what I was looking for. I was hoping to get some funding for the younger kids who are more expensive to care for,” Murray says. “I feel like Get Kids Ready is similar to

the public school 4K program, so it’s like they are funding two programs that are really close to one another.”

Murray notes that, with the 2025-2027 bipartisan biennial budget finalized, no additional funding for child care centers will be allocated this cycle. But she’ll continue advocating for public funding for child care as she has for the last several years. She views it as the only way the industry can survive.

When federal funding for child care providers was first introduced during the pandemic, Murray increased her new employees’ pay from $14 an hour to eventually $18.50 per hour.

“They are worth every penny. But to be honest, I had to do it to keep my staff and sometimes, it’s still not enough,” she says. “Child care is not easy work. I had one woman leave for lunch and never come back.”

Murray says parents are supportive and understand the fiscal pinch child care centers are in.

“Parents will need to be the next wave of advocacy since they are feeling the ramifications of expensive childcare,” she says.

MaryBeth Matzek is a WisconsinInvestment Ranking

According to the Wisconsin Early Childhood Association, until recently, Wisconsin was one of only six states in the United States that invests no additional public dollars into child care beyond federal funding and required state matching funds. On average, state investment across the country for child care and preschool is $1,300 per child with a high of $8,000 per child in the District of Columbia. These funds help administer initiatives that support the early care and education workforce, and keep tuition low for parents.

Outdoors for All

Discover connection With nature anD other active Women through a LocaL group.

BY KATIE VAUGHN

PHOTOGRAPHY BY HILLARY SCHAVE

Growing up in South Africa, Dineo Dowd was fascinated with tourists who visited her town to hike the nearby Drakensberg Mountains. Yet the segregationist rules of apartheid prevented Black families like hers from exploring national parks.

“That had always been on my mind,” she says. “What is it like to go hiking?”

She discovered the joys and challenges for herself when she visited Utah in her twenties. After settling there and becoming a mom, she joined the local chapter of Hike It Baby, bringing her daughter on hikes with other new parents. Upon moving to Wisconsin, she revived the Madison chapter.

These days, Dowd focuses on making hiking accessible and exciting for women in all stages

of life. Through her organization, Wisconsin Adventure Family, she leads regional hikes and hosts international adventure travel. All women are welcome to join events, which she announces on her website, newsletter and social media.

They can also consider going bigger: Dowd has led women to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro three times, and this summer she’ll bring groups to the Italian Dolomites and the Four Corners of Africa.

Whether atop a mountain or on a local trail, Dowd never tires of witnessing how hiking can transform women.

“That’s when things start changing,” she says.

Read on for more local groups that can help you explore the outdoors.

TAKE A HIKE

In early 2020, when Katy Amphlett was searching for a supportive, female-focused Wisconsin hiking group, she discovered HikerBabes. She became the first ambassador for HikerBabes Wisconsin, which has since grown to more than 3,000 members across the state.

“Some have been hiking for years and some join us for their first-ever hike,” she says. “What brings us all together is a shared love for the outdoors and a desire to build community. When you hear us coming down the trail, you’ll hear chatting, joy and laughter.” Most hikes range 3 to 7 miles, and all events are posted in the chapter’s Facebook group.

With a mission to increase women’s participation in trail running and hiking, Trail Sisters Madison coordinates group runs on local trails. A chapter of the national Trail Sisters organization, the group welcomes runners of all levels, focusing on inspiration, education and empowerment.

“It’s a great place to ask questions and learn from others,” says Steena Cirves, one of the group’s three administrators. “A lot of beginners are timid about trying new trails; our members can learn about the local trail systems from members who have experience with them.” Join the chapter’s Facebook group for meet-up details.

Also promoting inclusivity in trail running, Madison Trail Runners is a group of more than a thousand “women, men and non-binary runners of all running levels and experiences,” says organizer and event host Jesse DeAngelis. Her Tuesday evening and Thursday morning events take place on trails at the UW Arboretum, typically drawing 10-30 runners to each, and the group also coordinates weekend pop-up runs and volunteer days “as a way to give back to the trails that we use and love.” Find event details on the online platform Meetup.

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ON A ROLL

All that’s needed to join the Blonde Duck Bike Club is a working bicycle and a desire to have some fun. Benna Stengl and Emily Lynn started the group in the summer of 2024, as a “dedicated space in Madison for femme/trans/non-binary people to gather, move our bodies, spend time outside, build community and feel empowered to get on bikes.” Rides range from 10-20 miles, and each starts and ends at B.B. Clarke Beach Park, with a break halfway for snacks and sometimes a craft project. About a dozen bikers typically attend and all fitness levels are welcome. Visit the group’s Instagram for ride details.

ADVENTURE AWAITS

Think you’re not a rock climber? Rebecca Johnson and Emma Letcher believe differently. They’re the former co-chairs of Madison Women Climbers , a group for women (cis and transgender), femmes and non-binary or gender-nonconforming folks that builds climbing skills through community.

“We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to learn to climb,” says Johnson. “If you are thinking, ‘I’m not strong enough to climb’ or ‘I’m too old for that,’ we would like to invite you to climb with us. You are stronger and more capable than you know!”

Events include monthly meetups at local climbing gyms to teach fundamentals, clinics, social activities, stewardship projects and an annual camping trip to Devil’s Lake that includes professionally guided climbing opportunities as well as skills clinics.

“Whether someone is overcoming fear on their first indoor climb, learning how to set top rope anchors at Devil’s Lake or pushing their limits on a challenging outdoor sport route, they’re surrounded by people who support their journey and celebrate their progress,” says Letcher.

Follow the group on social media or sign up for its newsletter to stay informed about events.

WOMEN UNITED BRUNCH

Join us as we celebrate 2026 Women United Philanthropy Honoree, Karen Kallerud. Wednesday, May 13 | Madison Marriott West | 8:30-11:00 am

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•

Paddling is better with friends, too, says Stephanie Krubsack, who launched Wisconsin Women Who Kayak in 2019.

“I noticed how many women loved kayaking, but didn’t always have someone to go with or weren’t sure where to start,” she says. “Creating a group gave us a safe space to connect, explore Wisconsin’s beautiful waterways and build confidence in the outdoors.”

More than 5,000 members across Wisconsin represent a wide range of backgrounds and skill levels, and events are casual, varied and welcoming.

“A member might post that she’s heading out to a local lake or river and invite others to join,” says Krubsack.

“Sometimes it’s a small paddle with two or three women, and other times it’s a larger group gathering.” Join the organization’s Facebook group to find events or host a paddle of your own.

WALK THIS WAY

While the cornerstone of the Madison Gospel 5K Foundation is its annual summer race, for the past eight years, founder Uchenna Jones (a 2024 BRAVA Woman to Watch) has also been leading 3-mile walks on Saturday mornings that begin and end at Penn Park. Most walkers are working women who are married, single or mothers looking to combine fitness, faith and fellowship.

“Besides maintaining our physical health, our mental wellbeing is also being tended to,” Jones says. “At the end of each walk, we ask everyone what concerns they may have and we close the walk with prayer.” Learn more on the Madison Gospel 5K Foundation Facebook page.

Weekly walks are also a focus for Mary Kay Lyons, who organizes both the Thursday Morning Walking Group and the Sunday Morning Monona Bay Walking Group. Open to women and men, the walks last an hour.

“We walk the same path weekly, so if someone is running late, they can catch up on the path,” Lyons says.

“We finish the walk at our starting point and walkers may join for our social time at a neighborhood establishment.” Find the groups on Meetup for details.

Thanks to the Foundation for Black Women’s Wellness, women who crave community with their steps don’t have to look far to find it. The Wellness Walking Collective has a handful of groups that get together regularly: The Northside Walkers meet on Tuesday mornings at the Warner Park rainbow shelter, the Capitol Walkers on Wednesday afternoons in the Capitol rotunda, the Thriving Warrior Walkers on the first Saturday of the month at the Tenney Park shelter and the West Towne Walkers on the third Saturday of the month at West Towne Mall. Visit ffbww. org/walkingcollective for details.

One of the longest-running walking groups in the area is the Dairyland Walkers, which formed in 1995. Part of the national organization, America’s Walking Club, the group is co-ed,

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with walkers joining for “fun, fitness and friendship,” says membership coordinator Mary B. Liebig, who adds that most members are over age 50. Routes are usually either a 5K or 10K — some are group walks and some are done independently with a map and directions. Applications are available at dairylandwalkers.com, and a perk of membership is being able to join walks in other states, as all 50 have a chapter.

A newcomer to the local walking scene is Girls Who Walk Madison. Co-founders (and twin sisters) Madelyn and Lindsey LaBorde formed the group to foster friendships while prioritizing wellness and hosted their first walk in December 2024. They’ve held events in Madison, Verona, Middleton and Fitchburg, attracting a younger crowd of women who often bring their dogs. Follow the group on Instagram to learn about upcoming walks.

FOR THE BIRDS

It seems everyone is birding these days, and the Feminist Bird Club is ready to welcome you into the flock. The Madison chapter, which formed in 2019, is one of roughly 40 across the world committed to creating inclusive birding spaces.

“Birding is an incredibly joyful hobby that can connect you to nature, improve your mental health [and] keep you active,” says Caitlyn Schuchhardt, a member of the Madison chapter’s leadership team. “But there can also be a steep learning curve as you get acquainted with how to identify the roughly 400 species you might find in Wisconsin!”

The group welcomes birders of all experience levels, as well as individuals of any gender identity or sexual orientation; it also hosts several outings at accessible locations to accommodate members with mobility limitations.

“Nature is for everyone and our chapter embodies that,” Schuchhardt says. Subscribe to the club’s monthly newsletter (tinyurl.com/23akruxm) to learn about future events.

Katie Vaughn is a Madison-area freelance writer.

• 20th Anniversary Party on July 18!

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BEAUTIFUL BAKERY

Paleo Mama Bakery’s treats are thoughtfully crafted, without gluten and refined sugars.

BY SHAYNA MACE PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICOLE HANSEN PHOTOGRAPHY

When owner and founder Belle Voell started Paleo Mama Bakery in 2014, it was spurred by her own dietary needs and autoimmune condition.

Voell says her bakery products are always gluten-free, and the majority are also grain-free.

“We primarily use almond, coconut and cassava flour. Our sweeteners are natural and minimally processed, including honey, maple syrup and coconut sugar,” explains Voell.

Try a cookie butter or mint chocolate truffle bomb. Both have a decadent cream cheese center, flavored with either cookie butter or Oreo.

The magic bars are sweetened with honey and coconut sugar, offering a sweet treat without refined sugars.

A slice of cookie butter pie is “decadent, comforting and unmistakably indulgent,” says Voell.

Inspired by the beloved Girl Scout cookie, the caramel coconut bites have toasted coconut, caramel and chocolate.

“Our keto everything bagels are made with mozzarella, cream cheese, almond flour and egg. [They] are soft, chewy and richly flavorful,” says Voell.

Paleo Mama’s Park Street location offers all of its bakery favorites, including cookies, crackers, granola, cakes, pies, Danishes, bagels, rolls, naan, pizzas, breakfast sandwiches and more. In addition to gluten- and grain-free items, Voell says Paleo Mama has keto, diabetic-friendly (really!) and vegan options.

“Regardless of dietary category, our core philosophy centers on clean ingredients and foods that customers can feel good about eating,” says Voell.

UPCOMING EVENTS

The Business Forum events are open to members and non-members. All are invited! Mark your calendar and join us at one of our upcoming events!

MARCH

LUNCHEON (Virtual): AI Made Simple: Empowering Women to Thrive at Work and in Life (3/5)

2026 Annual ATHENA Leadership Award Celebration (3/11)

APRIL

LUNCHEON: Making Fast Decisions Using Your Values (4/2)

Designer Purse Bingo (4/15)

MAY

Annual Scholarship Luncheon (5/7)

JUNE

LUNCHEON (Virtual): Presence to Profits (6/4)

JOIN TODAY

TBF is a diverse and dynamic group of women dedicated to expanding their meaningful connections and making a difference in others’ lives.

A NEW KIND OF POUR

With sparkling botanicals and varying THC levels, RA!’s drinks offer a different way to unwind.

BY KEVIN REVOLINSKI

In 2023, Richard Bowman and Alla Tsypin of Madison-based NessAlla Kombucha founded RA!, an all-natural hemp and wellness company. Initially, they produced edibles, but soon decided to develop a nonalcoholic THC beverage line and bring on another investor.

Tina Noel, a former neurosurgical nurse practitioner with a master’s degree in nursing, answered the call. Noel currently works at a clinic that takes a holistic approach to healthcare, using plant-based supplements for healing.

“My neuro background helps me understand how these cannabinoids (THC) can help the body — so this [business] fits right in with my purpose,” she says. “I saw the industry changing and

the collective shift away from alcohol amongst all age groups — and I like being a disruptor.”

Noel’s intention was to come on as a silent third partner in 2024, but with a fundraising background from serving on the UnityPoint HealthMeriter Foundation’s board and the Clean Lakes Alliance, she knew she couldn’t remain “silent.”

“I knew people that own the restaurants, grocery stores and distributors we wanted to get into, so I’m like, all right, this isn’t working — I need to get on board!” she says.

RA!’s sparkling beverages include varying amounts of Delta-9 THC (vs. the semi-synthetic Delta-8) derived from Wisconsin-grown organic hemp extracted using a physical proprietary process rather than a chemical process that affects the taste.

Hemp-derived THC products came about after the 2018 Hemp Farming Act and have been largely unregulated. A federal ban on “intoxicating” hemp THC, which takes effect in November 2026, closes that loophole. This ban “would impact Wisconsin farming immensely,” says Noel. States have until then to develop a regulatory system to avoid the outright ban.

RA!’s lineup includes sparkling hibiscus, passionfruit lemongrass and pomegranate rosé flavors, each available with three or 10 milligrams of THC, plus a lemonade offered in five-, 10- and 20-milligram options.. Produced at Broken Bat Brewing in Milwaukee, RA! is distributed statewide, including at Woodman’s, Willy Street Co-op, and several bars and restaurants in Madison.

Kevin Revolinski writes about travel and food, and often travels for food.

— HANNAH, LIFELONG MEMBER

HANNAH’S STORY

While I never really struggled to make ends meet, I knew I had to manage my money better when I took on a bigger role in my godchildren’s lives. With Summit’s help, I paid down my debt and built a savings plan, and now we’re taking a family cruise and steps toward a bigger home.

Summit Credit Union is proud to help people throughout our community create a better life – with tools and programs that help you build

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PLANT - PERFECT BITES

Discover creative kitchens crafting globally inspired plates — from craveable comfort food to elevated classics — that put plants at the center of the table.

BY KATRINA SIMYAB

The Madison restaurant scene celebrates a diverse range of cuisines, cultures and dietary preferences — including many fantastic options for vegetarian and vegan diners. From serving “gyro” fries to pasta dishes, these vegetarian eateries serve up sophisticated, flavor-forward fare.

OSTERIA NOVELLA

Savor the flavors of the Amalfi Coast right here in Madison. The recently opened Osteria Novella offers an additional vegan menu, which includes a plant-based (and tasty)

take on a burrata starter. For the main course, try the linguine cacio e pepe (made with a vegan ricotta and cashew parmesan), a muffaletta sandwich or a pesto pizza. Finish up with a scoop of sorbetto for dessert.

MAD RABBIT CAFE

When hunger strikes, Mad Rabbit has something to satisfy you with its 100% plant-based menu. For weekend brunch, don’t be surprised if the pineapple coconut crepes call your name.

A Car-No Asada Burrito or Rabbit’s Delight flatbread with veggies and cashew “cheez” makes for a filling

lunch, and come dinnertime, order the Desert Cottontail burger — a tasty patty made up of smokehouse mushrooms, blistered serrano peppers and chipotle pesto.

ALCHEMY CAFE

Burgers are a popular menu item at this Schenk-Atwood neighborhood staple, but here’s a pro tip: Any meat patty can be substituted for a house-made

almond chickpea option for no charge. Alchemy’s rotating soup flavors are also frequently plant-based, along with salads like the Maize, featuring a spicy combination of marinated garbanzo beans, veggies and greens topped with a roasted corn dressing. When it comes to sides, its sweet potato fries or roasted garlic mashed potatoes are a must.

SWAGAT

Don’t get overwhelmed by all of Swagat’s tasty options — there’s no wrong menu choice here. Cheesy paneer dishes are a popular starting point for vegetarians, while vegans will find the pureed eggplant in the Baingan Bharta pairs well with soft naan bread. Thanks to locations in both Sun Prairie and the West Side of Madison, you’re never far from grabbing a takeout order or settling into a table to sample its abundant buffet.

MISHQUI PERUVIAN BISTRO

With a dedicated vegan-only fryer in its kitchen, Mishqui succeeds in its mission to “make Peruvian-style

cuisine accessible, flavorful and welcoming to all.” Dishes like the locro de zapallo stand out, which pulls together pumpkin, squash and potatoes in a flavorful stew. Or feast on a bowl of tacu tacu, a combination of stir-fried rice, mayocoba beans and veggies. Whatever you choose, leave room for some empanadas!

TAZA

Dig into incredible Middle Eastern flavors, family style, by sharing plates of hummus, baba ghanoush, tabbouleh, stuffed grape leaves and falafel. Many meals are served with a warm pita and your choice of side

salad or soup — the split yellow pea and the spinach lentil soups alone are worth the visit. Individual plant-based entrees are generously sized — but no Mediterranean meal here is complete without a slice of flaky baklava.

JUSTVEGGIEZ

There’s no need to give up your favorite meat-focused meals when the odds are that JustVeggiez has a plant-based dupe that tastes just as good, if not better. Find gyro fries, a Korean BBQ chicken sandwich, a deep-dish pepperoni pizza, a chili dog, wraps, loaded burgers, fried “cheese” curds — the mouthwatering list goes on. The restaurant has even launched a monthly meal plan that delivers vegan goodness right to your door step for anyone looking to save time on meal prep.

VILLA DOLCE

Vegetarians will appreciate Villa Dolce’s pear and gorgonzola pizza with whipped ricotta and truffle honey. The butternut squash tortel lacci also deserves a special mention, thanks to its delectable squash and mascarpone filling, sage brown butter and truffle drizzle. (If you’re vegan, be sure to request no dairy, as many of Villa Dolce’s options have cheese.)

Katrina Simyab is a Madison-based freelance writer, content creator and digital marketing professional.

choose

inspiration art history live music

The Fox Cities arts and culture scene is calling— and it’s louder and more vibrant than ever! Start your journey at the Trout Museum of Art, now settled into a stunning new home that is a masterpiece in its own right. You can explore this magnificent architectural space with free admission through 2026.

Once you’ve soaked in the fine art, step into the extraordinary at the History Museum at the Castle. Transition from modern creativity to ancient wonder as you unearth new fossil and mineral displays.

As the sun sets, keep the rhythm going by diving into the thriving local music scene, where cozy venues and hidden stages host everything from soulful acoustic sets to high-energy regional acts.

ARTFUL ESCAPES CLOSE TO HOME

These five museums near Madison invite you to linger, explore and recharge your winter-weary soul.

BY KRISTINE HANSEN

For a jolt of inspiration — whether you’re a lover of art, or an artist or creator yourself — a wintry day spent inside an art museum can help break up the winter-into-spring slog. Consider these five art museums, all within a two-hour drive of Madison, as the

perfect excuse for a day trip and a major creative boost. Many also have cafes where you can linger over a book, a shop in which to support local artisans by purchasing their wares and classes, and workshops to either adopt or sharpen an artistic discipline.

MUSEUM OF WISCONSIN ART

This West Bend museum exhibits 300-some artists with some relationship to Wisconsin, whether they’re Dairy State natives or have had a transformational experience in Wisconsin. Works in the museum’s collection span from the early 1800s to modern day, including three of the state’s most well-known artists: landscape painter Tom Uttech, pop artist Reginald Baylor and the late Carl von Marr, whose paintings were exhibited at the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair. Admission includes an annual museum membership, making it easy to return here.

Don’t miss: “Kelly Jean Ohl: Threads of Interconnectedness” (through April 12) showcases Ohl’s hand-carved clay creations that reference natural forms, such as seed pods, fossils and oceanic creatures.

MILWAUKEE ART MUSEUM

When Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava unveiled this building’s design in 2001, it made a major splash — and

continues to do so today — as its soaring white bird-like wings create a sharp contrast against Lake Michigan’s waters. In the permanent collection are collections of Haitian art, folk art and German Expressionism, among the best in the U.S., along with a significant number of Georgia O’Keeffe paintings.

Don’t miss: “Gertrude and Friends: The Wisconsin Magic Realists” (through July), brings together fantastical depictions inspired by 1940s Midwestern life and the mysteries of everyday America.

TROUT MUSEUM OF ART

In October, this museum moved into its new home — 30,000 square feet of ground-floor space in a four-story building in downtown Appleton — in partnership with Lawrence University. Throughout 2026, admission is free, supported by The Boldt Company. In addition to serving coffee and cocktails when the museum’s open, The Drinkery is a cafe-bar hosting Coffee and Conversations creative talks every fourth Sunday.

Don’t miss: “Tandem Press: Contemporary Art and the Print Impression” (through April 5) features works by international artists who have collaborated with the Madison-based fine art print publisher.

RACINE ART MUSEUM

Located in downtown Racine on Main Street, the museum’s collection of contemporary craft — just a sliver of its 14,000-piece collection — ranks as the country’s largest. Works on paper from the 1930s to today are another specialty, such as prints, watercolors, drawings and photography. Open since 2003, the museum continually hosts fun exhibits, including its wildly popular Peeps show around Easter where artists and community members riff on this nostalgic marshmallow treat to create art.

Don’t miss: “Tanya Crane: Embodied Histories — Exploring the Legacy of African Jewelry” (through January 2027) showcases Crane’s patterns that echo designs of Indigenous makers.

ART IN MADISON

You don’t have to travel far to see art, as Madison is blessed with two museums. The Chazen Museum of Art on the UW-Madison campus features the state’s second-largest collection of art (second only to the Milwaukee Art Museum) featuring works by big-name artists such as Salvador Dali and Andy Warhol. The Madison Museum of Contemporary Art’s newest show “A Broad Sweep of Sky” (through March 29) explores 1930s-1940s Regionalist artists like Thomas Hart Benton and Grant Wood.

JOHN MICHAEL KOHLER ARTS CENTER + ART PRESERVE

These two Sheboygan museums were both founded by the Kohler Foundation, the arts offshoot of the luxury plumbing manufacturer. Tucked into downtown Sheboygan, the John Michael Kohler Arts Center focuses exclusively on contemporary art, particularly that of self-taught artists, including artist-built environments. The Arts Preserve’s three-story building (crafted from timber, river stones and concrete) on a 38-acre site allows more room to showcase these artist-built environments of mostly self-taught artists, including “Details of a Lost Library,” the interior of Stella Waitzkin’s apartment in New York City’s Hotel Chelsea, packed with cast books. Both do not charge an admission fee. A visit is not complete without popping into the bathrooms at each as they are also works of art, at the hands of talented artists who have reimagined the walls, tiles and more.

Don’t miss: “Recent Acquisition: Roger Brown Study Collection” (through spring 2027) features some of Brown’s collection of 2,000 works by Chicago Imagist artists, recreated as it was in his home on the South Side of Chicago. “A Beautiful Experience: The Midwest Grotto Tradition” (through May 10), showcases grottoes and historical context about the art form.

Kristine Hansen is the author of “Frank Lloyd Wright’s Wisconsin: How America’s Most Famous Architect Found Inspiration in His Home State.”

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Enter between March 12-April 12, 2026

NEW AND NOW

There’s a full slate of arts and culture events to check out in March and April.

BY LENAH HELMKE

SPOTLIGHTS

“Recent Acquisitions” Through April 26, Madison Museum of Contemporary Art MMoCA exhibits its permanent collection, showcasing contemporary works collected from 1964 to present day. The exhibition features a selection of the 80 artworks added to the museum’s permanent collection in 2025, ranging from large-scale paintings to sculpture by artists from around the world. mmoca.org

“ChoreograpHER”

April 3-5, MYArts

Madison Ballet presents a powerful performance that celebrates the female visual narrative with a production by all-female choreographers and dancers, including world-premiere works by Endalyn Taylor and Ilana Goldman. madisonballet.org

Wisconsin Film Festival

April 9-16, Various venues

Throughout this eightday festival, celebrate Wisconsin filmmakers and beyond with screen ings of short films up to full-length features. Multiple film genres are featured, from horror to documentaries.

“Lady Disdain”

April 9-26, Overture Center

This romantic and comedic play directed by Forward Theater Company’s Jen Uphoff Gray brings together two exes to retell a modern version of William Shakespeare’s “Much Ado About Nothing.” forwardtheater.com

Michelle Buteau

April 17, The Orpheum Theater Actress, comedian, producer and writer Michelle Buteau is coming to Madison on her “Surviving and Thriving Tour.” Buteau is the creator of two Netflix series, “Survival of the Thickest” and “A Buteau-ful Mind” and is the first-ever woman to tape a comedy special at Radio City Music Hall. madisonorpheum.com “ ChoreograpHER”

SPOTLIGHTS

(CONTINUED)

“Tiara’s Hat Parade”

March 7-9, 14-15, 21-22, MYArts

Kelly Starling Lyons’ children’s picture book, “Tiara’s Hat Parade,” exhibits the beauty of a family business and original craftsmanship. Don’t miss this heartwarming performance produced by the Children’s Theater of Madison. ctmtheater.org

VIEW, LISTEN, CONTEMPLATE

March Watershed Reading March 21, Arts + Literature Laboratory, artlitlab.org

“Panczenko MFA Prize Exhibition: Anne E. Stoner” April 10-May 22, Chazen Museum of Art, chazen.wisc.edu

John Butler with Band April 14, The Sylvee, thesylvee.com

2026 BANFF Mountain Film Festival World Tour April 24-25, Barrymore Theatre, barrymorelive.com

WOMEN ON TOUR

Spring into the warmer months with these three incredible female performances. Starting with a must-see show, Overture Hall welcomes award-winning actress and Juilliard-trained soprano Audra McDonald in “An Evening with Audra McDonald” (April 4, overture. org ), filled with musical magic. Are you a “Seinfeld,” “Curb Your Enthusiasm” or “Law & Order: SVU” fan? If so, iconic actress and comedian Kathy Griffin, who guest-starred in all three shows, is on tour at the Barrymore Theatre (April 26, barrymorelive.com ). Not only is Griffin a fan favorite, but she also holds the Guinness World Record for writing and starring in 20 televised stand-up specials. And the talent doesn’t stop there. Allie X performs at the Majestic Theatre for her “Happiness Is Going to Get You Tour” (April 29, majesticmadison.com ). The Canadian singer-songwriter is known for her artistry and dark, yet whimsical sound.

EAR PLEASERS

Marissa Nadler with Anand Wilder April 8, The Bur Oak, theburoakmadison.com

Jammy Buffet April 11, Atwood Music Hall, theatwoodmusichall.com

Ladies Rock Camp April 12, High Noon Saloon, high-noon.com