Michella Hand

These past few weeks have been crazy to say the least. Never would I have imagined I’d be co-hosting, marketing, and attending so many local events with such truly fabulous people. From meaningful community moments to unforgettable celebrations, every event has reminded me just how special our local community really is. Thank you to everyone who attended these events, helped plan them, trusted me in partnership, and to all of the incredible local vendors who brought them to life. ✨ EVENTS RECAP ✨ 💧 Drip & Sip with @wellnessondelaware + @thesipsociety_518 🌮 Tacos & Tequila Seminar at @normanside_ with @curamiatequila + @upstatewinespiritsco 💚 Check Presentation for Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month with @thomaspestservices + @upperdepot ($3k Raised!!!) 🥃 Shots & Shots Event with @wellnessondelaware + @curamiatequila (stay tuned for the cocktail release at @oslatterys !) 🎉 @domcreviews 30th Birthday at @evermorehall with @iliumbrewing + @thesidepies afterparty 🥂 VIP Mother’s Day Brunch at @stablegatewinery with so many amazing women-owned vendors!

If your idea of a “kid-friendly day” still includes good food, beautiful views, and a little something for you too… this one’s for you! Here are some of my favorite family-friendly spots across the Capital Region + Hudson Valley, where the kids can run free and you can actually enjoy yourself: 🍎 @thegreigfarm – Pick-your-own fruit, farm animals, and those dreamy orchard views 🐐 @junefarms – Animals, cozy vibes, and one of the most unique farm experiences around 🍦 @delsroadside_kinderhook – Classic roadside eats + ice cream that hits every time 🍏 @thegreenhousecidery – Relaxed outdoor setting with cider for you and space for the kids to roam 🌄 @indianladderfarms – Apple picking, animals, on-site Cidery, and views that never get old 🍷 @coopersdaughterspirits – A distillery stop that’s family-friendly with food pop-ups and events 🍔 @ssfarmbrewery – Casual, fun, and perfect for a laid-back family hang 🌻 @goldenharvestfarms – Farm fresh finds, the best cider donuts, and an on-site smokehouse and distillery These are the kinds of places where you don’t have to choose between “for the kids” and “for you”… you get both! 📌 Save this guide for your next family adventure. ✨ Follow @michellahand , your local insider, for more small town bites, sights, things to do, hidden gems, and weekend getaways.

It’s more than a crewneck… it’s a love letter to Local 💚 Introducing the MH Local Crewneck — a local collab between @michellahand x @casalegals , blending their iconic “Upstate” design with MH branding to celebrate 6 years of MH exploring locally. For the ones who romanticize their small towns, chase weekend getaways, and always choose local. 🚨 Limited presale only from now through May 16th — once they’re gone, they’re gone. The link for the presale is in MH’s bio and can be found on casalegals.com. Plus, every purchase gives back to @gotrcapitalregion , supporting the next generation of confident, kind, empowered girls. Now, raise your hand if you’re getting a limited edition MH Local Crewneck AND love to support local! 🙋🏼‍♀️

Bimi’s Cheese Shop is the definition of a hidden gem — thoughtfully curated cheeses, homemade soups and sandwiches, fresh baked goods, great coffee, and the kind of warm atmosphere that makes you want to stay awhile. From the cappuccino and rhubarb streusel cake to the BaSTA sandwich, homemade tomato soup, and their unreal mac and cheese, everything tasted fresh, homemade, and packed with flavor. And if you’re building your next charcuterie board, this is THE place — they’ll walk you through the cheeses, offer samples, and help you find exactly what you’ll love. I also love that they have a dedicated celiac station, making this such a welcoming spot for everyone to enjoy worry-free. Trust me, Bimi’s is absolutely worth the drive. ✨ Follow @michellahand , your local insider, for more small town bites, sights, things to do, hidden gems, and weekend getaways.

This one was for the MOMS 💛 From delicious bites and great wine to shopping local and connecting with incredible vendors, the VIP Mother’s Day Brunch at Stable Gate Winery was all about making moms feel celebrated, appreciated, and loved. It was so fun seeing everyone come together to sip, eat, shop, and enjoy such a beautiful morning! A huge thank you to everyone who came out and supported this event, and an even bigger thank you to the amazing local vendors who helped make the day so memorable. 📍 Venue: @stablegatewinery 📸 Photography: @serenaleephotography 💐 Flowers: @floralsbykitty 🍳 Catering: @birchhillcatering ☕️ Coffee: @thesipsociety_518 💍 Permanent Jewelry: @lakunalinks.abby 🌸 MYO Perfume Bar: @themoodsaratoga 💉 Wellness Vendor: @wellnessondelaware 🍪 Cookie Kits: @the.field.shop …should we do it again next year!?

Coffee lovers, this one’s for you ☕️✨ The Capital Region’s newest coffee cart, The Sip Society, is serving up more than just lattes, they’re creating an experience. Founded by besties Lauren + Alyssa, this mobile café brings boutique coffee shop vibes straight to your favorite events, celebrations, and pop-ups. From a Lucky Charms latte for St. Patrick’s Day, to a carrot cake latte for spring, to the MOST delicious salted honey pistachio latte… their flavor game is unmatched. And yes, they even bottle their lattes so you can enjoy them later. I’ve had the pleasure of working with these girlies at events and they are truly the sweetest, most talented duo. If you’re planning an event and want something your guests will rave about, book them ASAP. And if you see them at a pop-up… buy the coffee. ✨ Follow @michellahand , your local insider, for more small town bites, sights, things to do, hidden gems, and weekend getaway

If you’re in the Catskills, make sure to stop by Red Star Cafe and Bakery in Cairo for delicious homemade baked goods, fresh salads, sandwiches, and some seriously good coffee. I tried their vanilla cold brew with sweet foam and it was the perfect pick-me-up. Plus their apple turnover was a huge hit with my family, and the Black Forest ham & cheese made for such a great breakfast option. Whether you’re grabbing something to-go or hanging out inside or on their outdoor patio, this is definitely a spot worth checking out! ✨ Follow @michellahand , your local insider, for more small town bites, sights, things to do, hidden gems, and weekend getaways.

A packed Irish pub on a Friday night? Yeah… that tells you everything you need to know 🍀 O’Slattery’s is one of those places that just gets it right — great food, cold drinks, live entertainment, and the kind of atmosphere that makes you want to stay awhile. From the crispy Neo Classic wings with their signature sauce to the fish tacos, Irish tacos, Reuben, and Guinness brisket chili… everything hit! And of course, when you’re at an Irish pub, ordering a Guinness is basically required. But their espresso martini? Also worth the hype. If you’re looking for your next go-to spot in Delmar, this is it. ✨ Follow @michellahand , your local insider, for more small town bites, sights, things to do, hidden gems, and weekend getaways.

Tacos + tequila + local businesses coming together? That’s the kind of collaboration I LOVE to see 🌮🍋‍🟩✨ The Taco & Tequila Seminar at Normanside Country Club was the ultimate local partnership featuring Curamia Tequila, @upstatewinespiritsco , and an amazing crowd of people who came out to support local and sip something delicious. @madelsavio — the tequila queen herself and co-founder of @curamiatequila — always brings the energy and the flavor. From smooth pours to learning more about the craft behind the tequila, every tasting feels like an experience. (The Blanco is my favorite 👏) Pair that with incredible tacos from @normanside_ (their food is DELISH!) and it was truly the perfect combo. Huge thank you to everyone who came out for this tasting — and to my guy @domcreviews for always supporting local with me 🤍 This is your sign to: ✨ Keep an eye out for events at Normanside Country Club ✨ Grab yourself a bottle of Curamia Tequila ✨ And never underestimate how fun local collaborations can be

Albany locals already know… but if you haven’t been to Druthers Brewing Company lately, this is your sign 👀🍻 New look, same iconic spot, and somehow even better vibes. It’s the kind of place you can show up for one drink and end up staying for hours. The beer lineup? So good. IPAs, sours, reds—whatever you’re into, they’ve got you. Can’t decide? Flights are the move. And the FOOD 🤤 Mac & cheese is non-negotiable, the Angry Bee pizza brings the flavor, and the pretzel with beer cheese is always a win. Honestly, you can’t go wrong. Good drinks, great food, and a vibe that just hits every time—Druthers is always a yes. ✨ Follow @michellahand , your local insider, for more small town bites, sights, things to do, hidden gems, and weekend getaways.

Union Street Brewing is more than just a brewery, it’s your go-to spot for a laid-back hang with seriously good food, drinks, and one of the BEST outdoor patios in the area. From craft beer and cocktails to wine, cider, and NA options, there’s something for everyone. And the food? I went with the mezze platter + fish tacos this time—light, fresh, and so satisfying 🤌 Add in the friendly, attentive staff and the beautiful space right in the heart of Hudson, and you’ve got the perfect spot for your next outing. 📌 Save this for your next Hudson day trip or weekend plans. ✨ Follow @michellahand , your local insider, for more small town bites, sights, things to do, hidden gems, and weekend getaways.

Meadowbrook Farm in Leeds is more than just a flower farm—it’s an experience. From stunning mountain views and beautiful blooms to seasonal events like the Flower Walk, Taco & Tequila Fest, and Sunflower & Sangria Festival, there’s always something to look forward to here. It’s one of my favorite spots to spend a day—live music, local makers, amazing food + drinks, and the kind of atmosphere that just feels like summer in Upstate NY. Whether you’re planning a special event, a weekend outing, or just want to wander through the flowers with a cocktail in hand… this place is a must. 📌 Save this for your next day trip or send it to someone you want to go with. ✨ Follow @michellahand , your local insider, for more small town bites, sights, things to do, hidden gems, and weekend getaways.