An Unforgettable Northern Michigan Escape: Food, Friends, and the Magic of Traverse City
There are some trips that simply etch themselves into your memory, and my recent journey to Northern Michigan to visit the enchanting Traverse City for the “Sharing by the Shore” blogger retreat is undeniably one of them. What started as a brilliant idea conceived by the wonderful Rachel and Erin, quickly blossomed into a weekend filled with culinary adventures, the delightful clinking of wine glasses, and an abundance of laughter that resonated long after the trip concluded. It was an experience that truly celebrated the joys of good food, great company, and the breathtaking beauty of one of America’s hidden gems.
Discovering the Charms of Northern Michigan
A Scenic Drive and Unexpected Delights
Growing up in Ohio, you might assume that my family and I frequently ventured across the border into Michigan. Surprisingly, this wasn’t the case. The age-old college football rivalry between our states seemed to extend even to our vacation choices. Why head north when Lake Erie’s beautiful islands offered a perfectly acceptable escape? Oh, how mistaken I was! While I hold a deep affection for my home state, I must confess that Lake Michigan has utterly captivated my heart and, dare I say, surpasses Lake Erie in its sheer, serene beauty. The moment I caught my first glimpse of its crystal-clear, azure waters, I was compelled to pull my car over to the side of the road. The view was absolutely mesmerizing, reminiscent of the Caribbean’s vibrant hues, yet uniquely framed by dense, verdant forests that stretched as far as the eye could see. It was a sight that instantly transported me, evoking a sense of tranquil awe.
The drive itself was a sensory feast. Beyond the stunning vistas, Northern Michigan offered another irresistible roadside attraction: fresh, plump cherries. Literal roadside stands, brimming with these ruby-red gems, dotted the landscape. Naturally, I couldn’t resist. Stopping to purchase a giant bag of Michigan’s famous cherries became an impromptu, yet incredibly satisfying, part of my journey. They were, without exaggeration, crazy delicious and the perfect healthy snack to fuel my adventure north. These succulent fruits are a true testament to the region’s agricultural bounty, and experiencing them fresh from the source added another layer of authenticity to my Northern Michigan experience.
Sharing by the Shore: A Blogger’s Dream Retreat
Upon arriving at our charming retreat house, I savored a few precious moments to unpack and settle in before the official festivities began. The air was buzzing with an anticipation that only a gathering of passionate food bloggers can generate. Our first scheduled activity promised an effervescent start to the weekend, perfectly setting the tone for what was to come.
Bubbly Beginnings at Mawby Vineyards
Soon after, we were off to Mawby, a local gem renowned for its sparkling wines. If there’s one thing that instantly elevates any occasion, it’s a glass of bubbly. There’s just something inherently sophisticated and joyful about holding a flute of sparkling wine; it makes every moment feel a little more special, a little more celebratory. Mawby did not disappoint. The vineyard itself offered breathtaking panoramic views, and as we sampled their exquisite selection of sparkling wines, laughter mingled with the gentle breeze coming off the lake. Surrounded by cherished friends, enveloped by the refreshing air, and mesmerized by the stunning scenery, it was impossible not to have an absolute blast. Each sip of sparkling wine tasted like pure bliss, a testament to the region’s burgeoning wine industry and the perfect prelude to our weekend of culinary delights.
Grilling Up Good Times: A Fajita Feast
Returning to our retreat home, it was time to transform into culinary mode. I eagerly took charge of the grill, tasked with preparing the protein for our highly anticipated fajita dinner. I won’t lie; a wave of nervousness washed over me. Despite being a food blogger, known for my culinary creations, cooking for a crowd – especially a crowd of fellow food experts – always brings a unique kind of pressure. What if the meat didn’t turn out perfectly? What if it was overcooked? These anxieties are surprisingly common, even for seasoned cooks, and I felt just as nervous as a novice chef. However, the camaraderie in the kitchen was infectious, and the collaborative spirit was a wonderful antidote to my nerves.
Thankfully, all my worries were unfounded. The grilled meats, bursting with flavor and perfectly cooked, were a resounding success! The kitchen crew, comprised of my talented blogger friends, did an outstanding job preparing an impressive array of vibrant vegetables and delicious toppings for our fajita bar. It was a true team effort, resulting in a vibrant and incredibly satisfying meal. We extend a huge, heartfelt thank you to Door to Door Organics for generously providing nearly all the fresh, high-quality ingredients, from the succulent meats to the crisp vegetables, which made our fajita feast possible and so incredibly delicious.
Nourishment for Body and Mind: Breakfast and Photography Insights
The next morning, I awoke to one of life’s most delightful aromas: the sweet scent of waffles, accompanied by the savory promise of eggs and bacon. It was a truly idyllic start to the day, making me wish every morning could begin with such a decadent breakfast spread. The Michigan dairy products, particularly evident in the creamy richness of the eggs and the golden waffles, added an extra layer of deliciousness to our morning meal, setting the perfect tone for a day of learning and connection.
After our sumptuous breakfast, it was my turn to contribute to the retreat by leading a session on food photography. While I don’t consider myself a professional photographer, I harbor a deep passion and immense love for capturing the beauty of food through my lens. As with any public presentation, a familiar flutter of nerves made its appearance. Yet, I’m thrilled to report that the session was a success! Sharing my tips, tricks, and enthusiasm with my friends was incredibly rewarding. We laughed, we learned, and the energy in the room was palpable. Seriously, if my daily work involved being surrounded by such an inspiring and supportive group of individuals, I truly believe I would never have a single complaint. The shared passion for food and photography made for an incredibly engaging and memorable session.
Exploring Traverse City’s Vibrant Heart
Before dinner, we embarked on an exploration of downtown Traverse City, and I must unequivocally declare: I am utterly smitten with this charming upstate Michigan destination. The town exudes a welcoming, vibrant energy, with its picturesque streets, unique boutiques, and a palpable sense of community that makes it feel instantly inviting. It’s the kind of place where every corner holds a delightful surprise, and the natural beauty of the surrounding area seamlessly blends with the urban charm.
Cherry Republic: A Taste of Michigan’s Sweetness
Our first stop in Traverse City was the absolutely fantastic Cherry Republic. This place is a veritable paradise for cherry lovers, boasting an astonishing array of cherry-filled products. From jams and jellies to chocolates, wines, and countless confections, they truly had a thousand different ways to enjoy Michigan’s most famous fruit. My initial, utterly irrational urge was to buy one of everything! However, I managed to reign in my impulses and, with careful consideration, selected a generously sized bag of their famously delicious sour cherry candies for my husband. Let me tell you, these candies are the real deal. They are legitimately incredible. Do yourself a favor and get a bag; trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
As we meandered through downtown, a quick side note on the visual feast around us: look at that beach! Just a stone’s throw from the bustling shops, the pristine sandy shoreline stretched out, inviting and serene. I could seriously envision myself setting up a blanket right there and spending an entire, blissful day just soaking in the sun, listening to the gentle lapping of the waves, and enjoying the tranquility. Traverse City truly offers the best of both worlds: lively urban exploration complemented by serene natural escapes, making it an ideal destination for any traveler.
Culinary Delights at Aerie
After our delightful stroll around town, we concluded our day with one of the most memorable meals of the entire summer at Aerie. The incredible team at Aerie truly knows how to create an exceptional dining experience. From the elegant ambiance to the impeccable service, every detail was meticulously crafted to ensure a show-stopping meal. I indulged in an extraordinary feast, savoring every bite of succulent clams, perfectly cooked red meat, and, of course, a divine dessert. In a true moment of blogger forgetfulness, I actually devoured my entire dessert before even remembering to snap a picture! Seriously, what kind of food blogger am I? It was so incredibly delicious that all thoughts of documentation vanished, replaced only by pure gastronomic enjoyment. The meal was a perfect capstone to a day of exploration and camaraderie, a testament to Traverse City’s thriving culinary scene.
The Unbreakable Bonds of the Food Blogging Community
Our absolutely adorable retreat house provided the perfect backdrop for our unforgettable weekend. Aren’t you just a little bit jealous? It was incredibly charming and offered a cozy, welcoming atmosphere that fostered connection and relaxation. But beyond the beautiful setting, it’s time for me to get a little mushy. I genuinely and deeply love these ladies.
Being a food blogger is, in many ways, a unique and sometimes “weird” career path. You can spend countless hours attempting to explain what you do to friends and family, describing the intricate ways one can actually earn a living through blogging. It’s a career that allows for a vast network of friends, yet the majority of these cherished connections might be people you’ve never actually met in person. How many professions can boast such an interesting set of highlights?
Through the world of blogging, I have truly met some of my best friends. These are friends with whom I text every single day, sharing everything from recipe ideas to life’s little triumphs and tribulations. I even have friends with whom I connect on Facebook almost hourly when I’m awake, a constant source of support, inspiration, and understanding. The bond within the food blogging community is unlike anything I’ve ever experienced.
You simply cannot beat the experience of being a food blogger. I will admit, there are moments when it can feel a little lonely, lacking the traditional “coworker” environment. However, the incredible connections forged and the supportive community you become a part of make it entirely worth it. You will truly never find a more awesome, more genuine, or more encouraging bunch of people than a large group of food bloggers. We share a common passion, understand the unique challenges and joys of this digital career, and uplift each other in ways that are truly invaluable.
I know, I might sound like a dork, but I wholeheartedly mean every word. I love each and every one of these amazing ladies. And here’s the bonus: I can be my authentic, wonderfully weird self around them, and they still keep texting me! So, I guess that means they love me too. These friendships are a cornerstone of my life, proving that some of the deepest connections can be forged in the most unexpected ways, transcending geographical distance through shared passions and mutual respect.
My Incredible Blogger Tribe
Make sure to say hello and check out the amazing work of all my blogger buddies who joined me on this unforgettable trip:
- Rachel from Rachel Cooks
- Erin from Well Plated
- Monique from Ambitious Kitchen
- Kristen from Dine and Dish
- Katrina from In Katrina’s Kitchen
- Krista from Joyful Healthy Eats
- Aggie from Aggie’s Kitchen
- Liz from The Lemon Bowl
- Deborah from Taste and Tell
A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Sponsors
Celebrating Michigan Dairy with Milk Means More
A huge, heartfelt, giant THANK YOU goes out to the awesome folks at Milk Means More for generously sponsoring this incredible event. Seriously, dairy is a cornerstone of my life – no, really, I use Greek yogurt in almost everything I cook and love cheese almost more than life itself! Their generous sponsorship was absolutely instrumental in making this retreat as spectacular as it was. Remember that amazing breakfast spread I mentioned earlier? Hello, Michigan dairy happiness! The quality and freshness of the dairy products truly elevated our culinary experiences throughout the weekend, showcasing the rich agricultural bounty of Michigan.
I highly encourage you to follow Milk Means More on their various social media channels to discover more about the wonderful world of Michigan dairy:
- YouTube
An Unforgettable Journey with Amazing Friends
This Northern Michigan escape was more than just a trip; it was a profound experience of connection, culinary exploration, and pure joy. From the stunning vistas of Lake Michigan and the delectable local cherries to the vibrant downtown of Traverse City and the unforgettable meals shared, every moment was infused with a special kind of magic. Most importantly, it was a precious opportunity to strengthen the bonds with my incredible food blogging community. These women are not just colleagues; they are true friends, kindred spirits who share a passion for food and life. The “Sharing by the Shore” retreat proved once again that while digital connections are powerful, there’s nothing quite like the warmth and laughter of real-life camaraderie. Northern Michigan, Traverse City, and my amazing blogger friends, you have truly captured my heart, and I eagerly anticipate our next adventure together!