Memorial Day is more than the unofficial start to summer—it’s a time to pause, reflect, and honor the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. In Columbus, there are meaningful, beautiful, and community-driven ways to observe the holiday while still enjoying the spirit of the season.

Whether you’re looking for a quiet moment of reflection or a way to gather with others, here are some thoughtful ways to spend Memorial Day in Columbus.
 

Attend a Memorial Day Ceremony

One of the most powerful ways to honor Memorial Day is by attending a local ceremony. The National Veterans Memorial and Museum often hosts moving tributes that include guest speakers, wreath layings, and moments of silence.

You can also visit Union Cemetery or Green Lawn Cemetery, where flags are placed on veterans’ graves—a quiet but powerful reminder of sacrifice.

Visit a Local Memorial or Monument

Take time to walk through places designed for reflection. The Ohio Veterans Plaza along the Scioto Mile offers a peaceful setting to honor those who served.

Bring flowers, a small flag, or simply your presence—sometimes the simplest gestures carry the most meaning.

Support Veteran-Owned Businesses

Memorial Day can also be a time to support those who have served. Columbus is home to a number of veteran-owned businesses, from coffee shops to service providers. Choosing to spend locally is a small but impactful way to give back to the community.

If you’re planning a meal out or a gathering, consider seeking out veteran-owned establishments or donating to organizations like Disabled American Veterans.

Host a Thoughtful Gathering

While barbecues and gatherings are common, you can elevate the meaning behind your event. Consider:

• Starting with a moment of silence
• Sharing a story about a fallen service member
• Displaying a flag properly and respectfully

Memorial Day can be both celebratory and reflective—it’s about balance.

Participate in a Community Event

Events like local parades, 5K runs, and charity fundraisers often take place throughout the city. These gatherings bring people together while honoring the purpose of the holiday.

Keep an eye on events hosted near Downtown Columbus or surrounding neighborhoods, where community participation is especially strong.

A Final Thought

Memorial Day is ultimately about remembrance. However, you choose to spend it in Columbus—whether attending a ceremony, gathering with loved ones, or simply taking a quiet moment—what matters most is honoring the lives and sacrifices that made our freedoms possible.

As the city comes alive with the warmth of summer, let’s carry forward a sense of gratitude, respect, and reflection.

The post Ways to Observe Memorial Day in Columbus, Ohio appeared first on Preferred Living Blog.

Preferred Living is proud to share the incredible success of our recent Coats for Kids Drive, made possible through the generosity of our sponsors and team members. Together, we were able to purchase winter coats for 329 students at Champion Elementary School in Columbus, Ohio, helping ensure children in our community stay warm during the winter months.

To make the experience even more meaningful, each student was able to select their own coat size and preferred color, allowing the gift to feel personal and special. All coats arrived individually packaged in gift bags, adding an extra touch of care and excitement for the students as they received them.

We are especially grateful to our Gold Level Sponsor, 84 Lumber, for their generous $3,000 contribution, which played a significant role in making this initiative possible.

We would also like to extend a special thank you to our Silver Level Sponsor, Crimson Design, for their outstanding support of this effort.

In addition, we want to sincerely thank our Bronze Level Sponsors—Key Companies, Horizons Company, Inskeep Printing, and Next Day Signs—for their valuable contributions and continued commitment to supporting our community.

Finally, we are incredibly grateful to the Preferred Living Team and Preferred Living, who stepped up to purchase the remaining coats. This collective effort reflects the compassion, generosity, and community-first spirit that defines our organization. We are honored to support Champion Elementary School and proud of what we can accomplish when we come together to make a meaningful difference.

The post 2025 Coats For Kids appeared first on Preferred Living Blog.

Orchard season is starting soon, so get ready to go peach picking and apple picking in Columbus! Peach season is in July and August, and apple season typically runs from July to early November, wrapping up with my favorite variety, Goldrush! 

I’ve gathered a list of the 12 best places for apple picking in Columbus, and the 5 best orchards for peach picking in Columbus. Go multiple times, and you can have a freshly picked peach or apple a day for the next few months!
 

Apple Picking in Columbus

Since apples are available July through October, you have plenty of time to pick your favorite apple varieties and try some new ones. Go apple picking at different times this fall and see what new varieties you can try. 

Whether you prefer sweet, tangy, or sour apples for eating or cooking, there are so many varieties to choose from. If you hope to store some for the winter, ask which options are best for storing! 

Before you head to an orchard to pick apples, make sure to verify u-pick times and availability, or confirm on their Facebook page.

Don’t forget your camera for great photo ops!

Note: the information below was gathered before apple season and may have changed slightly since publishing. Please click the links to find exact current details for apple picking availability, schedule, prices, and such.
Content provided by: https://www.columbusonthecheap.com/u-pick-best-places-to-pick-apples-in-columbus/

North Apple Orchards

CherryHawk Farm

16220 Springdale Road, Marysville, OH 43040. Phone: 937-642-6442

12 varieties of Apples, starting in August. See Facebook page for updates and availability.
See website for varieties that are available starting in August.

Sunflower field – tba expected for 2025. Visiting the flowers is included with a $20 minimum purchase of one peck of apples; $25 for premium apples. If you do not want a lot of apples, put the amount you want in your bag. The bag price is good for one person, a couple of two, or an immediate family. $1 each per additional stem
 

Apple Hill Orchards 

2 locations!
1175 Lexington-Ontario Road, Mansfield, Ohio 44903 (419) 884-1500
16780 Fredericktown-Amity Road, Fredericktown, Ohio 43210, 740-694-7688

30 varieties of apples (starting in early July, with u-pick starting in August), 8 varieties of peaches (late July/August), plus pears (September), plums (September), cherries (July), and pumpkins (October), Christmas trees (December). And people RAVE about the donuts. If you’re driving through the area, they even have a drive-thru for espresso drinks, coffee, and apple donuts! Note: Not all apple varieties will be available for u-pick, depending on crop availability.
Follow Apple Hill Orchards on Facebook for updates and special events, such as pony rides.
 

Lawrence Orchards

2634 Smeltzer Road, Marion, OH 43302. Phone: 740-389-3019.

15 varieties of Apples, peaches, wildflowers, pumpkins, Christmas trees. Integrated pest management system for lower chemical use. Not everything will be available for u-pick, depending on crop availability. Open from 10-5 Monday – Saturday. See Facebook page for updates.

Harvest Saturdays at Lawrence Orchards: select Saturdays, August 23 – October, 2025. Pick your own apples, music, food trucks, entertainment, and more. See list of activities for each Harvest Saturday. 

September 27: Applefest 10:00 am- 5:00 pm. Hayrides, music, pony rides and more. $5 admission
 

October 25: Applebutter and Horseradish Day 10 am – 5 pm. We start stirring the copper kettle of applebutter over an open fire around daybreak. The butter is ready for processing by midafternoon. At the same time we grind our horseradish crop (downwind from the butter!). Come take a step back in time and enjoy the tastes and smells of farm life! Schmidt’s food truck will be there.

South Apple Orchards

Hirsch Fruit Farm

12846 State Route 772, Chillicothe, OH 45601. Phone: 740-775-7055. Off-farm location is on 41 Seney Rd

Over 21 varieties of apples (limited picking dates), pumpkins. See Hirsch Fruit Farm Facebook page for updates.

Paiges’ Produce/Family farm market

7975 Cincinnati Zanesville Rd., Amanda, Ohio 43102.  740-601-8419. Call to check availability.
 

Peaches: Typically late July/early August
Apples: Expected August-October – select u-pick dates.

Check Facebook for details.

East Apple Orchards

Lynd Fruit Farm

9091 Morse Road SW, Pataskala, OH 43062. Phone: (740)927-7113

20+ varieties of apples beginning September, pumpkins (October), asian pears (early October). U-pick and already picked, farm market, concessions, etc.  

See website or Facebook page for availability and u-pick pricing. 1 small bag purchase minimum per vehicle.

Smiles of Sunflowers at Lynd

August 2025 tba from 10 am – 8 p.m. 9851 Morse Rd. SW (across from the market)

Peaches: Typically late July/early August
Apples: Expected August-October – select u-pick dates.

Check Facebook for details.

East Apple Orchards

Lynd Fruit Farm

9091 Morse Road SW, Pataskala, OH 43062. Phone: (740)927-7113

20+ varieties of apples beginning September, pumpkins (October), asian pears (early October). U-pick and already picked, farm market, concessions, etc.  

See website or Facebook page for availability and u-pick pricing. 1 small bag purchase minimum per vehicle.

Smiles of Sunflowers at Lynd

August 2025 tba from 10 am – 8 p.m. 9851 Morse Rd. SW (across from the market)
 

Legend Hills Orchard

11335 Reynolds Rd, Utica, Ohio (740) 892-3090.
24 varieties of apples starting in late June, and 7 variety of peaches will be available from late July-late August. 

Check availability daily by Facebook, hours are Mon-Sat 9-5, Sunday 12-5. Peaches are available to pick – call or look for Facebook updates before you go, or see website.

Peaches expected late July/early August. 
Apples: Earliest variety available in early July for u-pick, with more varieties available later in season.
 

Heartland Orchard

13029 Laurel Hill Rd, Thornville, Ohio, (740) 787-1353

No u-pick, but they offer 26 varieties of Apples, Pears and 14 varieties of Peaches, plus plums and cut-your-own Christmas tree. Check Facebook for availability.

West Apple Orchards

The Orchard & Co

7255 US HWY 42 North, Plain City. 614-873-0510
11 varieties of apples beginning in late August, plus u-pick pumpkins, food, and more. See Facebook page for picking schedules/varieties. 

Fall Season: Saturdays & Sundays, TBA 2025
Farm Yard Pass: Farm Yard Pass is not required to pick apples, pumpkins, or to visit the market & cafe. Adults & Children  $12.00, Seniors  $5.00, 2 & under free, Season Pass: $20.00
Includes: Animal Barn, Jumping Pillow, Pedal Cart Track, Zip Line, Tractor Swings, Hay & Corn barn, Hill Slide, Diggers, Tire Climb, Wagon Ride, & Moo Moo Express.

The post U-Pick: Where to go Apple Picking in Columbus appeared first on Preferred Living Blog.

Stroll the wide, tree-lined sidewalks of Grandview Avenue amid the hum of café-table chatter. Discover specialized independent shops, curated New York-style boutiques, a chocolatier’s gorgeous handmade truffles, independent breweries, top-rated coffee roasters, cutting-edge salons, and world-class restaurants that use fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The eclectic mix of restaurants here has consistently been recognized by critics and diners alike for their cuisine, ambiance, and outstanding attention to detail.

Grandview is also home to a collection of award-winning craft microbreweries and taprooms. A hub of creativity, culture, and out-of-the-ordinary experiences, Grandview offers an array of guided food and drink tasting tours, unique regional events, demos, classes, art galleries, consignment shops, a working distillery, the nation’s oldest operating single-screen theater, and much more. This hip, historic neighborhood is brimming with distinctive flavor and new experiences.

The post Preferred Living Loves Grandview appeared first on Preferred Living Blog.

Making the decision to declutter your apartment can feel like a big task but breaking it down into manageable steps makes it much easier. Here are practical tips and a guide to help you get started:

1. Set a Clear Goal & Have a Game Plan-Define what you want to achieve and figure out what your decluttering goal is. Do you want a more organized living space, less stress or just get rid of a visible mess? Knowing your "why" can help you stay focused and help you prioritize tasks and figure out your next steps.

2. Start Small-Pick one room, or even just one area, like a closet, desk, or drawer, to begin with. This way, you won’t feel overwhelmed.  Start with what you feel is the easiest room first, this can help also with not feeling too overwhelmed too soon.

3. Use the "Four-Box Method"-Have four boxes or bags labeled:

• • Keep: Items you use or love. (A tip inspired by Marie Kondo: Before keeping something, ask whether it truly brings you joy or adds value to your life. If it doesn’t, let it go!)
  • Donate: Items in good condition that you no longer need.
  • Sell: Things you think have value that you can sell.
  • Trash: Things that are broken, expired, or no longer useful.

4. Tackle One Category at a Time-Instead of decluttering room by room, group items by category (e.g., clothing, books, kitchen gadgets, papers). This gives you a clearer sense of how much you have of each item and helps you make more decisive choices.

5. Purge Your Closet-A lot of clutter comes from unused clothing. Go through your clothes and donate or sell things you haven’t worn in over a year.

6. Minimize Paper Piles-Organize bills, important documents, and personal papers into files. Shred anything that’s outdated or no longer necessary.

7. Use Storage Solutions-Invest in storage containers, bins, or shelving units to keep things neatly arranged. Vertical storage can free up floor space, and multi-functional furniture can help too.

8. Keep Surfaces Clear-Try to keep countertops, tables, and your floor free of clutter. Only leave out the essentials or decorative items that truly bring you joy.

9. Adopt the "One In, One Out" Rule-To avoid clutter building up again, try adopting a habit where you donate, sell, or discard one item whenever you buy something new.

10. Regular Maintenance-Dedicate a few minutes every day or week to quickly tidy up any small messes that accumulate. It’ll prevent the clutter from piling back up. Regularly go through your apartment to reassess your things. Decluttering isn't a one-time task—it’s about forming a habit of keeping your space tidy.

11. Be Patient-Decluttering is a process that takes time. Don’t rush, and celebrate small wins along the way!

A clutter-free environment not only makes the every day cleaning process easier but also creates a more serene and enjoyable livable space. 

The post Declutter Your Apartment for Spring appeared first on Preferred Living Blog.

Columbus, Ohio, has a lively St. Patrick’s Day celebration scene, with plenty of Irish pubs and bars offering a festive atmosphere, delicious food, and of course, green beer! Whether you're looking to celebrate with traditional Irish fare, live music, or a cozy pint of Guinness, here’s a list of the best Irish pubs and bars in Columbus to help you get into the St. Patrick’s Day spirit.

1. The Dublin Pub-231 W. Nationwide Blvd., Columbus, OH

The Dublin Pub is one of Columbus' best-known Irish pubs, offering a fantastic blend of Irish tradition and a lively pub atmosphere. For St. Patrick’s Day, this place goes all out with live music, dancing, and an extensive menu of Irish staples like shepherd’s pie and fish and chips. Expect a packed house and a true Irish pub experience in the heart of downtown. 

2. Fadó Irish Pub-4022 The Strand West, Columbus, OH

Fadó has a great mix of Irish authenticity and modern flair, making it an excellent spot for a St. Patrick’s Day celebration. With a full menu of traditional Irish dishes and an extensive whiskey selection, it’s perfect for anyone looking to immerse themselves in Irish culture. The Fadó Guinness Pouring Challenge and live music are big draws during St. Patrick’s Day festivities.

3. The Three-Legged Mare-401 N. Front St., Columbus, OH

Known for its relaxed, casual atmosphere, The Three-Legged Mare is a great place to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day without the huge crowds. It offers a nice balance of Irish pub vibe with plenty of space to relax. This bar has an impressive selection of Irish beers and whiskey, along with great Irish-inspired comfort food like Guinness stew and corned beef sandwiches.

4. Claddagh Irish Pub-585 S. Front St., Columbus, OH

Claddagh Irish Pub is known for its traditional Irish hospitality and excellent pub fare. It's a great choice for a St. Patrick’s Day celebration if you’re looking for an authentic Irish pub atmosphere. You’ll find plenty of drinks, live Irish music, and fantastic Irish dishes like bangers and mash, corned beef and cabbage, and a pint of Guinness.

5. The Shamrock Tavern-4936 Sinclair Rd, Columbus, OH

For a more intimate St. Patrick’s Day celebration, head to The Shamrock Tavern. This classic Irish pub serves up a cozy atmosphere with great food and drinks. It's a local favorite known for its good-natured crowd, affordable prices, and a killer Irish coffee.

6. Brazenhead Irish Pub-103 E. Whittier St., Columbus, OH

Brazenhead is one of the oldest and most iconic Irish pubs in Columbus. With a great selection of beers, a warm and welcoming atmosphere, and a fantastic outdoor patio for warmer days, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a pint of Irish beer and some classic pub fare. For St. Patrick’s Day, they feature live Irish music, and their fish and chips are a crowd favorite.

7. O’Reilly’s Irish Pub-1200 N. High St., Columbus, OH

O'Reilly's is a classic pub with an extensive selection of Irish beers and a cozy, welcoming vibe. They’re known for their great Guinness pours and delicious Irish breakfast options. For St. Patrick’s Day, the pub hosts lively Irish folk bands, and the place fills with fun-loving people looking to enjoy traditional Irish music and food.

8. J. Gumbo's-1194 N. High St., Columbus, OH

J. Gumbo’s offers a different vibe than traditional Irish pubs, but it’s perfect if you want to mix things up while still celebrating St. Patrick’s Day. Their Creole and Cajun-inspired menu is unique, but they still embrace the St. Patrick’s Day spirit with great drinks and a lively atmosphere. Plus, their po'boys and gumbos are something to write home about!

Bonus Tips for St. Patrick’s Day in Columbus:

• Arrive early: St. Patrick's Day is one of the most popular times to visit these pubs, so arriving early to grab a seat is a good idea.
• Wear green: It’s a St. Patrick's Day tradition, and you’ll want to blend in with the festive crowd.
• Take public transportation: Parking can be tricky in downtown Columbus, so consider taking the COTA bus or using ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft.

Whether you’re looking for traditional Irish music, delicious food, or the perfect pint of Guinness, Columbus has some fantastic Irish pubs and bars to make your St. Patrick’s Day celebrations unforgettable. From lively atmospheres to cozy corners for a quiet drink, you’re sure to find the perfect spot to enjoy the holiday in style.

**Don’t forget to see the Annual The St. Patrick's Day Parade**

Hosted by the Shamrock Club, come out to enjoy a lively celebration with marching bands, floats, Irish dancers, bagpipes and more.  The parade starts around 11 a.m. and steps off from the St. Patrick’s Church, 280 N. Grant Ave.  What a great way to kick off the festivities with family friendly fun.

The post St. Patrick’s Day in Columbus appeared first on Preferred Living Blog.

Ohio offers some beautiful springtime road trip options, with the state's mix of vibrant cities, charming small towns, and scenic natural landscapes. Whether you’re looking just for a scenic drive, a walk in a park or a fun time, enjoy these spring Ohio destinations.

Hocking Hills State Park-Hocking Hills Ohio

Hocking Hills is stunning year-round but spring is particularly magical as the wildflowers bloom, the waterfalls flow at their peak and the landscape comes alive with greenery. Hike the trails of Old Man’s Cave, Ash Cave and Cedar Falls or cozy up in one of the many in park cabins.  Enjoy the serenity and peaceful retreat this Ohio outdoor gem offers!

Lake Erie Islands-Put in Bay and Kelleys Island

Put in Bay, Ohio’s Island Playground, and Kelleys Islands are great options if you are looking for an escape to enjoy nature, history and laid-back island vibes.  Two of Ohio’s premier Lake Erie destinations, offering visitors a blend of natural beauty, charming local culture and plenty of outdoor activities.  Both islands offer unique experiences, but whether you're after a lively adventure or a peaceful retreat, Put-in-Bay and Kelleys Island are sure to provide a memorable Lake Erie getaway!

Cedar Point & Sandusky Ohio

Enjoy a thrilling day at the amusement park at Cedar Point or some fun in the sun on the beaches in Sandusky, Ohio.  After the fun, cozy up in the charming town of Sandusky that offers scenic views of Lake Erie or walk along the quiet shores.  Visit the nearby Marblehead Lighthouse and after checking out the local dining and brewery scene.

Scioto Mile-Columbus Ohio

Columbus’ Scioto Mile is a revitalized downtown area along the riverfront in Columbus, Ohio.  With outdoor parks, fountains and scenic views of the river, it’s a lively spot to walk, relax and enjoy the weather.  While in the area, make sure to stop in and visit the nearby Columbus Museum of Art or Franklin Park Conservatory.

Cincinnati and the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Gardens-Cincinnati Ohio

Cincinnati is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, and one of its standout attractions is the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden.  The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden offers an enriching and enjoyable experience. From awe-inspiring animal exhibits to the serene beauty of its gardens, there's always something new to discover. Don’t forget to check out the city’s downtown vibrant arts and food scene too.  Whether you’re visiting the city for a weekend getaway; downtown, the zoo and gardens offer a fantastic experience for all ages

Amish Country Scenic Byway-Holmes County Ohio

Enjoy the rolling hills and rural beauty of Ohio’s Amish Country.  This scenic drive takes you through some of Ohio’s most beautiful countryside, including Amish communities.  Stop at Amish farms, explore the countryside and enjoy local food, homemade baked goods and handmade goods at markets and shops.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Located between Cleveland and Akron, this national park offers an oasis of natural beauty, outdoor recreation and fascinating history right in the heart of Ohio. This park is known for its rolling hills, lush green oasis with beautiful spring foliage, waterfalls and a mix of outdoor activities.  Take a hike, enjoy a bike ride along the Towpath Trail or visit the picturesque Brandywine Falls and explore the great outdoors.  Cuyahoga Valley National Park is unique because it blends nature and history, making it a great destination for a variety of interests.

Dayton & Yellow Springs

Looking for a getaway that offers a little bit of everything—history, art, outdoor beauty, and small-town charm? Look no further than Dayton and Yellow Springs, two of Ohio’s best hidden gems, located just a short drive apart. Dayton, known for its rich history and aviation heritage, is just a short drive away from the charming town of Yellow Springs, famous for its vibrant arts scene, quirky shops and natural beauty. Together, they make for the perfect weekend getaway or day trip.

Springtime in Ohio offer a variety of scenic drives and cozy destinations, especially for those who want to avoid summer crowds.  Ohio is full of beautiful spots that come alive in the Spring with blooming flowers, mild weather and lots of outdoor activities to enjoy!

The post Plan your Spring Ohio Road Trip appeared first on Preferred Living Blog.

Valentines Day is such a great excuse to make things feel extra special!  If you’re planning to go out to dinner for Valentine’s Day, that’s a classic choice for a romantic celebration! A nice dinner out can set the perfect tone for the evening. Here are a few restaurants we recommend to make your Valentine’s Day extra special:

The Refectory–1092 Bethel Rd. Columbus, OH 43220

Known for its exceptional French-inspired cuisine, elegant ambiance and impeccable service, its perfect for a truly special fine dining experience. Perfect for a more upscale special evening, the calm and serene ambiance makes it ideal for couples looking to enjoy a dinner in a quiet, romantic space. 

Lindeys–169 E. Beck St. Columbus, OH 43206

A European-style bistro known for its warm ambiance, outstanding service, and flavorful dishes. For a cozy yet refined atmosphere and vibe, this a fantastic choice especially if you're looking for a charming, romantic evening combined with excellent food. It strikes a wonderful balance between casual and upscale, making it great for a special occasion without being too formal.

Sushi Tango–1126 N High St. Columbus, OH 43201

For something a little different and fun, Sushi Tango is a great choice for couples who enjoy sushi.  The trendy vibe offers a creative sushi experience with a modern, sleek ambiance. Sushi Tango has a lively yet intimate feel, and the vibrant energy makes it an enjoyable spot for couples who are looking for something fun but still special.

The Top Steakhouse–2891 E. Main St. Columbus, OH 43209

The Top has been serving delicious steaks and a traditional steakhouse experience for decades.  It offers a cozy, old-school atmosphere that’s perfect for an intimate date and is a classic and timeless choice for a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner. The environment has a touch of elegance but isn’t too formal, which makes it perfect for a special quiet, romantic relaxed night out.

Third and Hollywood-1433 W. 3^rd Ave. Grandview Heights, OH 43212

 An upscale, yet relaxed restaurant located in the Grandview Heights area, offering a trendy vibe with a great menu. The restaurant has a modern atmosphere, with industrial-chic decor and a cozy, intimate setting—perfect for a romantic dinner. It’s not too formal, but it has a refined and polished feel, making it an excellent choice for a special occasion like Valentine’s Day without feeling overly stiff.

Veritas–11 W. Gay St. Columbus, OH 43215

Another great option for fine dining, Veritas offers a refined yet warm atmosphere with exceptional service and a contemporary American menu that focuses on seasonal ingredients and an impressive impeccable wine list. has a chic, modern feel with a cozy, intimate atmosphere. The stylish, minimalistic decor, combined with soft lighting and an open kitchen, creates a welcoming environment that’s perfect for a romantic evening. The space is intimate and upscale without being intimidating, making it a wonderful spot to relax and enjoy a meal together.

Butcher & Rose–155 E. Broad St. Columbus, OH 43215

A fantastic choice for a memorable Valentine's Day dinner in Columbus! Butcher & Rose offers a refined yet relaxed atmosphere, with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients and a thoughtfully curated menu. The ambiance is both modern and intimate but not overly formal, creating a perfect balance for a romantic night out. The candle-lit ambiance adds to the warmth and intimacy, making it ideal for special occasions.

Chouette–66 N. High St. Columbus, OH 43215

Located in the Short North, it’s a cozy, intimate spot with a French-inspired menu that makes for an intimate, romantic and upscale dining experience. Chouette has a chic, modern atmosphere, the decor is elegant yet approachable, and the lighting and ambiance make it a perfect setting for a romantic evening. The intimate and upscale atmosphere, combined with the creative, high-quality dishes, makes Chouette a fantastic choice for a romantic night out. It’s a little more on the sophisticated side, so if you're looking for something refined with a cozy feel, it’s perfect.

Barcelona–263 E. Whittier St. Columbus, OH 43206

Barcelona offers a vibrant yet intimate atmosphere with a Mediterranean-inspired menu. The restaurant has been a local favorite for years and is known for its delicious tapas and creative cocktails. Barcelona has a warm, rustic-chic vibe with lots of natural wood accents and a lively, cozy feel. It’s perfect if you’re looking for an atmosphere that’s both casual and elegant, with a touch of energy that doesn’t make it feel overly formal. It’s great for a romantic but relaxed dining experience.

Valentines Day is one of the busiest days and nights for most of these restaurants.  To ensure your night is extra special and you get the most out of every experience make sure you book reservations early.  Maybe even ask the restaurant if they can do something special for you, like rose petals on the table or a personalized dessert and dress up.  Dressing up a bit more than usual adds to the special occasion vibe. Plus, it's fun to feel extra fancy and enjoy a great time with your significant other!

The post The Day of Love In Columbus appeared first on Preferred Living Blog.

Thinking of Trying Dry January…It’s Never Too Late to Try

Ever wondered about getting involved in the Dry January hype and challenges?  The new year is a popular time to take stock of your health and lifestyle choices, press the reset button, and dive into resolutions such as Dry January.

The Dry January challenge is a campaign developed and delivered by UK charity Alcohol Change UK where people sign up to abstain from alcohol in 2012.  This wellness first trend is catching up with people, especially Gen Z, which has led to it large-scale popularity.

Benefits of Dry January

Weight Loss-Consuming lesser calories can often lead to lead to weight loss alone.  Alcohol carries empty calories that without could lower daily calorie counts.

Lower Blood Pressure-According to research going only even 4 weeks without alcohol can lower blood pressure and even heart rates.

Better Sleep-Just a few weeks of going without alcohol can help one sleep deeper and more restfully

Higher Energy Levels & Improved Immune System-Taking a break from alcohol can also lead to increased productivity while also strengthening one’s immune system.

Balances Mood and Reduced Stress-Alcohol is a mood depressant and heavy drinkers can experience depressions and anxiety.  Taking a hiatus from alcohols can reduce stress and help balance your mood.

Liver Health-Alcohol can be known to harm your liver, giving it a break can help regain its health.

Skin Benefits-Lesser dry skin, redness and puffiness are likely to occur when not consuming alcohol. 

Where to Get Your Local Mocktails in Columbus– Best Mocktails In Columbus

Comune Restaurant–677 Parsons Ave, Columbus, OH 43206

With nearly a dozen booze-free bevvy’s like the Shrub + Soda, which is like a pineapple-y or berry Moscow Mule, you’re sure to find your favorite new mocktail.

High Bank Distillery–1051 Goodale Blvd, Columbus, OH 43212

With the distinction of being awarded the best cocktails in Columbus the past 4 years, High Bank Distillery doesn’t mess around with their mocktails either.

Watershed Distillery-1145 Chesapeake Ave, Columbus, OH 43212

Watershed is determined to share the flavors of the world with Central Ohio with their “Watershed: A World Tour” drink menu. And while the cocktail menu is extensive, there are several non-alcoholic versions that allow you to taste the world without ever having to leave the distillery!

VASO Rooftop Lounge–6540 Riverside Dr, Dublin, OH 43017

With five unique, specially crafted mocktails on their extensive drink menu, you’ll be able to find your favorite booze-free drink to go alongside their delicious Spanish cuisine.

Level One Bar + Arcade-130 Hutchinson Ave, Columbus, OH 43235

If mocktails and arcade games sound as incredible to you as it does to me, then Level One Bar + Arcade is your new spot.

Condado Tacos-1227 N High St, Columbus, OH 43201

Their creative menu features mocktails like the Nojito, which is, you guessed it, a non-alcoholic version of a Mojito or enjoy their Cactus Juice mocktail featuring prickly pear, pineapple, ginger beer and lemon!

Thank you to: 
https://stepoutcolumbus.com/guide-to-the-best-places-for-mocktails-in-columbus/

The post Doing Dry January? Wanna give it a Try? appeared first on Preferred Living Blog.

1. Get there early

Setting up your tailgate early is key to getting a good spot. If you know Columbus, you are aware that traffic around the stadium will be crazy. Be sure to leave 30 minutes earlier than you think you need to. You want to be close enough to the stadium so you can hear the band and the crowd, but not so close that you can't enjoy your own pre-game festivities.

A good rule of thumb: If game time is at noon, aim to start tailgating around 9 a.m. This will give you plenty of time to set up and socialize before things really get going.

2. Bring the essentials

No tailgate is complete without a few key items:

• Chairs or blankets to sit on
• Coolers for food and drinks
• Grill or portable stove
• Tables
• Games
• Canopy or tent
• Portable speaker

Remember that you can make your setup as low-key or as over-the-top as you want. Some people like to bring TVs so they can watch other games. Others prefer to just relax and catch up with friends.

3. Make a menu

Now let's get to the fun stuff — food.

Plan ahead and decide what you want to eat and drink. You can't go wrong with snacks like chips, dip, and pretzels; for drinks, water, soda, and beer are always popular choices. Will you be grilling? If so, make a shopping list of everything you need. Bring enough hot dogs and chicken wings for your group plus extra in case some friends drop by.

Tip: Teamwork makes the dream work. Ask your friends and family to make their favorite dish (potato salad, anyone?) or bring their go-to beverage. There are so many options for great food in Columbus, pick up something on your way! 

4. Decorate your space

This isn't the time for subtlety. When it comes to tailgating college football, the more festive you get, the better.

Here's how you can show your team spirit:

• Hang flags and banners from your canopy or tent
• Put team stickers on your cooler
• Break out the team-themed tablecloth
• Slap a temporary tattoo on your arm

1000. importantly, you'll want to dress the part by wearing your school's hat or jersey. Dedicated fans might even paint their faces or bodies with school colors.

5. The games before THE game

Tailgating parties are a great opportunity to socialize with friends, family, and even rival fans from opposing teams. Bring yard games like corn hole or KanJam to get people interacting. If you have kids with you, pack a foam football or frisbee so they can run around and burn off some energy.

General tailgate etiquette is to be respectful of your fellow fans. Make sure your group is staying within your designated space and not blocking anyone's view.

6. Play some tunes

Music always gets people pumped up for the big game. Put together a playlist with your favorite pregame songs or create a Spotify station dedicated to your team.

7. Be prepared for the weather

Great weather makes for a great tailgate. But even if it's not looking so good, you can still have fun. It is central Ohio. After all, the weather could change in an instant! Tarps or umbrellas will help keep your space dry in case it rains.

8. Don't forget the little things

A few other items you might not think to pack, but could come in handy:

• Trash bags for cleanup
• Bug spray
• First-aid kit (just in case)
• Hand sanitizer

When you're loading up the car, be sure to double check that you have everything. It's always better to err on the side of caution than to find yourself without something important. (Cough, paper towels, cough.)

9. Clean up before you go

There's no bigger buzzkill than seeing trash all over the parking lot after a tailgate. Be sure to clean up your area before you head into the stadium. This includes disposing of any food waste, picking up garbage, and putting away all your tailgating gear.

10. Have fun!

Whether your team is a perennial powerhouse or just starting to make some noise, college football tailgating is always a good time. The energy in the air, the cheering fans, the delicious food — it's all part of the experience. And the pageantry and tradition is even more special when you're surrounded by friends and family.

Be safe and enjoy the game. Go team!

The post 10 Best Tailgating Tips for Columbus College Football Game Day appeared first on Preferred Living Blog.