AWESOMEMITTEN - Key Persons

Amanda is a stay-at-home mom from Michigan who rarely stays home. You'll often find her out with her kids exploring all that the Great Lake state has to offer. She loves to encourage others to get outside and believes you don't have to travel far to make a memory. You can follow their adventures over at @exploremichiganmore on Instagram.

Job Titles:

• Content Manager & Staff Writer

Ashley plans, directs, and publishes our in-depth travel guides and deep-dives on hidden gem destinations across the state. You can find her articles here. She is also a wife and busy mom of five kids ranging from preschool to high school. Her personal website (PicheaPlace.com) features faith, family travel, and home management.

Job Titles:

• Social Media & Community Manager

Chrystal manages our social media channels, web stories, and social communities, helping to connect our readers with our content.

Job Titles:

• Awesome Mitten Contributor

Heather lives in Fenton, Michigan with her husband, two kids, and three crazy dogs. She is a family and wedding photographer who lives for capturing moments with her own family on their many adventures. During the Michigan summers, Heather and her family can be found traveling around the state in their travel trailer, checking out state parks, and discovering new places. Aside from photography, Heather loves rock hunting, reading, and enjoying a drink by a roaring fire. Find her work here: www.heathersternphotography.com

Job Titles:

• Staff Writer
• Journalist and Editor
• Staff Writer & Content Editor

James Andersen is an award-winning journalist and editor who was born and raised in Metro Detroit but currently resides on the shores of Lake Huron in Alpena, Michigan. When he's not knee-deep in research or conducting interviews for stories, he can be found fishing, cheering on Detroit sports teams, and spending time with his wife and two dogs. James is a staff writer and content editor for Awesome Mitten, helping to make sure our facts are accurate and our articles are detailed. You can read his articles here.

Job Titles:

• Writer from Livonia

Kassandra Olschanski is a 25-year-old writer from Livonia, MI. When she is not writing you can find her painting, traveling, or at concerts with her friends.

I'm an adventure-seeking, nature-loving, mama of two. After many years of exploration, my husband and I planted our roots in beautiful Traverse City, MI. I am shaped by my experiences in the outdoors, taking inspiration from our natural world and moments shared with my loved ones. Most of my writing is a way for me to reflect, slow down, and earmark these memories before time passes by. Mainly, I aim to notice and be astonished every day by the small details of love running through the current of my life and share this joy with others.

Job Titles:

• Creator Team Manager & Travel Writer

Leah is a travel writer for Awesome Mitten and helps manage and coordinate the other members of our Creator Team. You can read her articles here. As a lifelong Michigander and nature lover, Leah is always up for a new adventure throughout these beautiful peninsulas. Some of her hobbies include exploring new hiking trails, learning how to identify wildflowers, and avoiding crowds at Great Lakes beaches. Follow along for family adventures and eco-friendly tips on her blog, allnaturaladventures.com.

Visiting Meadow Brook brings you closer to understanding the powerful influence that Matilda Dodge Wilson had during her life. She was the rich widow of car pioneer John F. Dodge and used her money and power to turn the estate into a symbol of elegance and generosity. Her second marriage to Alfred G. Wilson led to a time of wealth and big ideas, which resulted in the estate growing and later becoming a center for culture and education. Additionally, Matilda was heavily involved in the Salvation Army and the Boys and Girls Club, and she was even the first female Lieutenant Governor of Michigan. Perhaps most notably, though, Matilda is the co-founder of Oakland University.

Meadow Brook Hall is an impressive house in Rochester Michigan that showcases the wealthy lifestyle of car industry leaders in the early 20th century. When you visit this historic site at Oakland University, you'll see what the rich lived like during America's Gilded Age. If you're into history, architecture, or just looking for something different to do, Meadow Brook Hall has plenty to offer. Take a guided tour to learn about the details of the house and its interior design, and check out the special exhibits to find out more about the people who lived there. Meadow Brook Hall is a mix of history, luxury, and cultural importance. Exploring this place teaches you about one of the largest historic home museums in the United States. Also, you'll get insight into the life and legacy of Matilda Dodge Wilson and how she played a big part in creating this remarkable estate. The main thing to do at Meadow Brook Hall is tour the mansion and gardens. However, the property hosts numerous festivities and private events throughout the year. Meadow Brook Hall has been named one of the best holiday historic home tours in the USA. Meadow Brook Hall welcomes you throughout the year with varying opening hours depending on the season, so we recommend double-checking those hours before your visit. You can purchase tickets for individual tours or opt for a membership for added benefits. When planning a visit to Rochester Michigan, Meadow Brook Hall offers a memorable experience steeped in history, architecture, and natural beauty. Tours provide insight into the automotive aristocracy and Tudor Revival architecture that make the estate stand out as one of the finest examples of America's past.

Stefanie lives with her family in Southeast Michigan. By day, she works in archives, and by night, she writes. Her interests include travel, history, art, magic, and anything else that sparks her curiosity and wonder. She is on Instagram @wonderwanderwilder.

Job Titles:

• Editor
• Staff Writer
• Staff Writer & Content Editor

Tiffany Betts is a staff writer and content editor with more than 15 years of experience in the industry. In her free time, she loves spending time with her family and playing board and video games - often combining the two. You can read her articles here.