News
The Foghorn Jazz Band
The Foghorn Jazz Band, a 15-piece ensemble from Northwest Michigan, brings the golden era of jazz to life with classics from the 1920s through the 1940s, while adding lively covers from Chicago, Earth, Wind & Fire, and beyond. Performing year-round across Northern Michigan, they are regulars at popular events and venues, including Charlevoix’s Venetian Festival and local spots like Torch Lake Cafe. United by their love for big band jazz, these talented musicians have dedicated their time to the craft, delivering polished performances that captivate audiences. The Foghorn Jazz Band is more than just music; they’re a community-driven force keeping big band jazz alive and thriving in Michigan.
Read More in the spotlight story in Volume 1, Issue 1 of Great Lakes Mosaic magazine.
Wyatt Cake Creations
Melissa Wyatt’s love for baking blossomed with her son’s first birthday cake, a DIY project that sparked a new passion. Combining her artistic talent with baking, she founded Wyatt Cake Creations, bringing custom cakes and cookies to life for special occasions. After relocating to Rapid City, Melissa found inspiration in Northern Michigan’s beauty and community support, transforming her part-time hobby into a beloved small business. From elaborate themed cakes to hand-painted cookies, each creation reflects her dedication to detail and her joy in making celebrations memorable.
Read More in the spotlight story in Volume 1, Issue 1 of Great Lakes Mosaic magazine.
Sour Bead Co.
Meg Plyler, the creator behind Sour Bead Co. in Kingsley, Michigan, crafts vibrant, durable earrings and accessories that celebrate individuality. Using high-quality glass beads sourced from American suppliers, she combines traditional beading techniques with a modern flair, ensuring each piece is built to last. For Meg, jewelry-making is about more than just fashion; it’s a form of self-expression. “Sour Bead Co. isn’t just about jewelry; it’s about celebrating individuality, creativity, and the joy of self-expression,” she says.
Read More in the spotlight story in Volume 1, Issue 1 of Great Lakes Mosaic magazine.
YOH! Yarn Over Hook
Shayna Marsh, the heart and hands behind YOH! Yarn Over Hook, has woven her love for crochet into a playful and heartwarming brand. Taught by her mother at age 12, Shayna first explored traditional pieces like scarves and afghans, but her creativity took off when she started creating quirky, custom crochet animals and novelty pieces. Officially launched in June 2022, YOH! has become a staple for unique, joyful designs—from crocheted pop-tarts to giant Easter Peeps.
Read More in the spotlight story in Volume 1, Issue 1 of Great Lakes Mosaic magazine.
Blossom Valley Fruits & Flowers
Blossom Valley Fruits & Flowers started as a simple dream on a patch of land, and today, it’s a thriving oasis of apples and flowers in Northern Michigan. Founded by Lisa and Kent, the farm began with 100 apple trees and a vision for sharing the sweetness of their harvest with the community. Over time, they expanded to include a flower farm, offering everything from pick-your-own bouquets to seasonal wreaths. Their dedication to craft and connection shines through in every detail, making Blossom Valley a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike.
Read More in the spotlight story in Volume 1, Issue 1 of Great Lakes Mosaic magazine.
Kahli Made
Kahli Schroeder, the heart behind Kahli Made, has turned a lifelong love of art into a thriving handmade accessories and cosmetics brand. Growing up as a “90s kid” with a passion for bold colors and all things Lisa Frank, Kahli’s work today reflects that same vibrant, playful spirit. Based in Cadillac, Michigan, she creates each piece with a blend of joy, nostalgia, and careful craftsmanship.
Read More in the spotlight story in Volume 1, Issue 1 of Great Lakes Mosaic magazine.
Nicole Crawford’s Art
Nicole Crawford’s journey as a realism artist is a testament to passion and community support. Growing up in Benzie County, Nicole was inspired by her older brother’s creativity, fueling her dedication to art. Initially focused on pencil portraits, she found her true passion in depicting pets and wildlife, which she now captures with remarkable detail using colored pencils, watercolor, acrylic, and pastel.
Read More in the spotlight story in Volume 1, Issue 1 of Great Lakes Mosaic magazine.
Notion by Leandra
Leandra, the maker behind Notion, is crafting more than just jewelry—she’s creating connections and memories, one piece at a time. Diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa, a progressive eye condition, Leandra has transformed the challenge of vision loss into a powerful journey of artistic resilience. Since launching her brand in 2006, her unconventional choice to use vintage buttons has set Notion apart as a unique wearable art form.
Read More in the feature cover story in Volume 1, Issue 1 of Great Lakes Mosaic magazine.