Hey Cincinnati! Are you looking for reliable child care or pet care? Looking for someone reliable to tidy up + help around the house? Look no further, Tandem is now launching in our city! Tandem is here to help with all of your care + household needs. I am beyond excited to welcome this expedient platform to our city. 

What is Tandem?

Tandem is the only free network for care and household connections. “We believe connections to reliable providers shouldn’t come at a cost. That’s why we created a free, easy-to-use platform to find child care, house cleaning, and pet care providers in Ohio. We facilitate connections to pre-screened care providers who have built a reputation on the platform. We’re on a mission to connect as many people as possible, for free.”- Olivia, founder of Tandem. 

Tandem providers offer child care, house cleaning, pet care and more! Within these categories, you can post jobs on your own schedule. So, what does that mean? You can now find a last minute, date night sitter, or even a full-time nanny. Same thing goes for pet care... You can find someone to watch your pet for the weekend or find someone to walk them for an afternoon. Your needs can be in advance or ASAP. Tandem lets you hire who you need, on your timeline.

Each family is connected with vetted, well-qualified care providers. All Tandem caregivers complete a background check and it must be returned with zero flags before they get hired for their first job.

The Story of Tandem

Tandem was founded in Columbus, Ohio in 2019 and has over 10,000 users in Central Ohio today. Tandem is now expanding to Cincinnati and Cleveland, allowing more people to take advantage of the free network they’ve built. 

The idea of Tandem was started by Olivia at just 10 years old. Olivia had started a neighborhood kids camp right in her backyard. Over the years, the camp grew and connected her with a network of families to care for. She realized the power of trust-based connections in the childcare industry and wanted to make this process easier for families and other care providers. 

With the industry challenges in mind, she created Tandem. The goal was to replicate word of mouth, which is why Tandem is completely free, removing typical barriers. Olivia has built a female-run team of 16. She works hard every day to grow her platform and help people in need of reliable care and household services. 

Who Benefits from Tandem

• Any parent looking for reliable child care. This could be a full-time nanny or a one-time sitter. 
• Anyone looking for a reliable pet sitter. This could be for walks, feeding, overnight sitting, or long-term boarding.  
• Anyone looking for a reliable house cleaner. This could be for your personal home or even your investment property (Airbbnb or hotel).
• Any parent looking for assistance with errands. Tandem has providers for grocery delivery, laundry help, sports lessons, music lessons and more.

Tandem will connect you with an active network of care providers in a variety of industries, based on your specific wants and needs. You don’t have to be in need of a provider to use Tandem. If you’re a care provider yourself, Tandem is also for you!  

Become a Tandem Provider

Earn money while having fun! If you’re a caregiver looking for a job, Tandem is for you! Tandem is known for being different than other platforms like Care, Rover or SitterCity. Tandem care providers get to keep 100% of their earnings! Build your reputation by using Tandems online platform. This platform will help you get booked by families in need of your service(s). The more experience, references and reviews, the more families will feel confident in their choice to hire you. Start building your online platform here.

Hire a Tandem Care Provider

Once you have an account, post your need as a job and browse care providers in your area. Care providers will be able to view your job right away.

In the meantime, you can invite candidates to apply who match your preferences. You’ll be notified when you receive applicants, and then you can review profiles, ask questions, schedule interviews or do additional vetting. Once you’ve found the right fit, you’ll be able to hire a provider. Once hired, you’ll receive a text notification to pay your care provider when the job ends, or in accordance with the payment schedule you set up. You can edit the amount or add a tip. Your provider will immediately receive their earnings. 

Finding a network of trustworthy and reliable care/household providers can sometimes be stressful and time-consuming. Tandem has taken the fees, time and unnecessary barriers out of the process. With Tandem, connections are easily formed, based on each individual's needs and trust. Make things easier for you and your family and join Tandem today!

• 55^th Independence Day Fireworks at Ault Park– July 4^th. Childrens costume contest and parade starts at 11 AM. There will be food trucks, kids activities, and live music throughout the day. End the evening with the classic firework show at 10 PM.
• Madeira Independence Day Parade and Celebration– July 2^nd. The Madeira Mile is at 4:30 PM, parade is at 5:00 PM, festivities at McDonald Commons Park start at 3: 00 PM, live music starts at 6:00 PM, Fireworks are at 10:00 PM.
• Sawyer Point Summer Concert Series + Fireworks– July 2^nd at Sawyer Point and Yeatman’s Cove. Live music starts at 2:30 PM. Four bands will play throughout the day with fireworks after the last performance.
• Red, Rhythm and Boom– July 3^rd at the Mason Municipal Campus. The fun starts at 4:00 PM with access to carnival and kid zone activities. Guests can enjoy a wide variety of food truck options as well as adult beverages. Stage entertainment starts at 6:00 PM and will continue throughout the night until fireworks at 10:00 PM.
• Northside 4th of July Parade and Rock-n-Roll Carnival– July 2^nd– 4^th at Hoffner Park. Starting Saturday from 3 PM -1 AM, Sunday from 3 PM – 1 AM. The party continues Monday at 11 AM and closes at 6 PM.
• Sparks in the Park– July 3^rd, located at Riverside Ballfield in Milford from 7-10 PM. They’ll have DORA cups, Kona Ice, Johnny’s Creamy Whip mobile unit, and Street Fried Food Truck at the event. Live music starts at 7 PM. Rozzi’s Fireworks go off at 10 PM.
• City of Montgomery Parade and Festival– July 4^th at Montgomery Park. The day starts with a parade at 10 AM, followed by a celebration until 2 PM. The parade route runs east along Cooper Road from the Junior High to Montgomery Road and then north to Schoolhouse Lane. Stick around for food, entertainment, and family fun!
• Red, White and Blue Ash– July 4^th, at Summit Park. The fun starts at 4 PM, featuring live music from Gavin DeGraw. There will be family-fun festival rides, local food vendors, drinks, live character performances, and more! Fireworks start at 10 PM.
• Taps Tastes and Tunes Festival– July 1^st – 3^rd at VOA Park. The fun starts Friday at 5 PM, featuring food vendors, ice-cold drinks, and live entertainment. Food Vendors will include Sweets & Meats BBQ, Turkey’s R Us, Craft Burger Bros, Big Dog’s Pizza, Graeter’s and more. July 2^nd the party is from Noon – 11 PM, July 3^rd from Noon- 10 PM. Fireworks are July 3^rd at 10 PM.
• Independence Day Cruise with BB Riverboats– July 3^rd from 6:30-11:30 PM on the Ohio River. Independence Day Cruise includes- round-trip cruise to Coney Island for their Balloon Glow & Fireworks, entertainment provided by a DJ, refreshments, reserved indoor seating, full dinner buffet. Bar available to purchase soft drinks, beer, wine, and mixed drinks. Purchase your tickets ahead of time, here.
• Fourth of July Celebration at Washington Park– July 3^rd – 4^th. The block party starts Saturday at 3 PM, ending at 10 PM. The party starts again Sunday at 6 PM, ending at 10 PM. Enjoy kids games and activities, live music, food from local vendors and drinks. There will be kids activities, games, local eats and of course a fireworks show after sunset.
• Post – Game Fireworks with the Cincinnati Reds– July 4^th. Watch the Reds play the New York Mets at Great American Ball Park. The baseball game starts at 6:40 PM. Enjoy a special Fourth of July fireworks show after the game. Tickets start at just $12, you can purchase them here.

Get Fresh Air and Sunshine

-Have some fun in the sun renting a canoe or kayak on the Little Miami River. Scenic River offers canoe, kayak and tube trip rentals. You can purchase your tickets ahead of time here.

-Whether you like to walk your dog or take a bike ride, the Loveland Bike trail is a fun way to spend your day! Don’t own a bike? No worries, you can rent one!

-Gather up your family or friends to enjoy some drinks and play some sand volleyball at Fifty West. Fifty West has a total of six outdoor sand volleyball courts and hosts weekly leagues and tournaments.

Attend an Event or Take a Tour

-Schedule a Cincinnati beer, wine or bourbon tour. The brewery locations change based on the date of the tour. You can check the schedule on their website.

-Attend an event at Fountain Square. From trivia night to salsa night… there’s something fun for everyone! Check out their list of events here.

-Discover a different side of Cincinnati on a guided tour of the city’s underground tunnels. This tour is about 2 and a half hours, loaded with history about Cincinnati. You can purchase your tickets here.

Kick Back and Relax

-Cool off and visit one of Cincinnati’s local ice cream shops. Some of my favorites are The Cone, Flubbs, Norwood Delite Creamy Whip and Aglamesis Brothers. Stay tuned for a full list of Cincy’s best ice cream shops!

-Check out one of Cincinnati’s rooftop bars. There’s nothing better than a cold drink with a nice view. Check out my list of Cincinnati’s rooftop bars here.

-Pack your blankets, lawn chairs and your favorite snacks… there are tons of free movies playing this summer at our local parks. Summit Park, Washington Park and at the Liberty Center, to name a few.

Don’t Forget the Cincy Favorites

-A day at the Cincinnati Zoo is always fun. Fiona will sure bring a smile to your face!

-Watch your favorite Cincinnati sports team(s) play. The Red’s and FC Cincinnati have games lined up all summer long!

Tip #1: Flowers are back in bloom and on standby to help you brighten any room. My favorite place to pick up a fresh bunch? Trader Joes.

Tip #2: Freshen up your tea towels and guest bath hand towels. Keep our eye out for crisp white towels dotted with hints of the new season like topiaries, florals, lemons, and birds — whatever says, “Springtime!” to you.

Tip #3: Throw open those windows and consider ditching the blinds. It’s not spring to me until I feel the warm breeze blowing through the house. Give those windows a good scrub. Not a penny to spend here – just some good ole elbow grease.

Tip #4: Save the front porch from FOMO: Don’t forget the front porch! Planters full of flowers, an outdoor rug, a wreath that pops, or some striped throw pillows — put your personal touch on your home’s main entry point.

Tip #5: Pick up spring-inspired throws. For days when there’s a lingering chill, have light-colored or pastel throw blankets on hand. Then, the whole fam will be warm and toasty while still giving a nod to the most welcome season.

Happy spring, friends! May your home and heart bloom bright this season.

It’s an exciting week here in Cincinnati…baseball is officially back! Although the Reds open their season on the road for the first time since 1990, there is no need to leave Cincinnati to celebrate. I’ve created a list of everything you need to know to enjoy this annual Cincinnati tradition, right here in our city: 

*All of these events will take place on Tuesday April 12th, 2022* 

Washington Park’s Opening Day Party– From 10-4 PM, enjoy parade views, live music, family friendly games and activities, giveaways, drink specials and more!  

Opening Day Party at Rhinegeist– The party starts at 9 AM, come party in OTR! Drink specials, live viewing of the game on taproom jumbotron, baseball-themed decor and giveaways. 

Findlay Market Opening Day Parade– Starting at noon, the Parade starts at Findlay Market on Race Street. It will go straight down Race all the way down to 5th, turning east on 5th and ending at the Taft Theater. 

Opening Day at Taft’s Ale House– Taft’s Ale House is opening at 9 AM to begin the celebrations and the first 100 people to purchase a pint of beer will get a FREE Opening Day koozie! There will be drinks, breakfast, lunch, kids pitching games, coloring stations, a photobooth and even a contest! They will be giving away FRONT ROW seats to the parade, right outside on the Ale House patio.  

Opening Day at Beeline– This party is located at Newport on the Levee. Watch the big game on their giant LED’s and enjoy a drink or two at their riverfront cocktail bar! Take advantage of their drink specials. 

Reds Opening Day at Braxton Cincinnati– Kick off Reds Opening Day at Braxton Cincinnati! You can enjoy the first Reds Game of the season at 4:10 PM at Braxton Brewing Co. They have cold drinks, great vibes and tons of TV’s… you can’t miss the game here! 

Opening Day at The Banks– Several establishments at The Banks will be opening early to celebrate the return of baseball in Cincinnati. Enjoy drinks specials and all-day celebrations. Not to mention, this location is a part of the DORA zone.  

As always, be safe, have fun and go Reds! 

It’s always great to have family visit and stay with you over the holidays. You get to be a tourist in your own city, as you show them around your fav places and eat at local hot spots. When your guests arrive, you want to make sure they feel comfortable in your home. Here’s a holiday hosting checklist of ways to make your guests feel welcome in your home this season:

-Offer to leave a key or your keyless entry code. Sometimes it’s just easier that way.

-Offer a house tour upon arrival. Make sure your guests feel comfortable and know where everything is (especially where the extra toilet paper or towels are located, ha!)

-Have the essentials clean and ready to go. Make sure you have nice, clean sheets, plenty of fluffy pillows, and extra blankets near the bed. Have extra towels clean and folded. Everyone has different comfort levels and what you might think is enough actually won’t be!

-Have a welcoming basket! Collect body wash, shampoo, toothpaste, lotion, toothbrushes etc. and put them in a cute basket in your guest room.  (I love using free samples or hotel freebies that I’ve collected for this.) Maybe even add some of their fav snacks and candy!

-Make room for their belongings. Whether they’re staying in a spare bedroom room or sleeping on an air mattress in the living room, you want to make sure to provide an area where your guests can put their things and not feel like they’re in the way.

-Place a charger by their bed. There is nothing worse than traveling and forgetting your phone charger.

-Have extra water bottles ready to go! Setting a water bottle or two on your night stand can add an extra touch.

-Have a notecard with the wifi password written down so your guests can easily access the internet.

-Stock the fridge. Is there a special snack or drink you know your guests love? Get it all at the store beforehand. Make sure you have enough alcohol and coffee. Remember, they are on vacation!

-Get out of the house! Provide a travel guide or make an itinerary. Yes, I’ve made an itinerary for my family this week! You get to show off your city, make it fun.

Making friends and family feel welcome is so important. Give yourself a pat on the back for being this years host. I hope you enjoy this special time with your loved ones! Happy Holidays!

It’s 2021 and as we know it, things have changed. That includes the way we picnic! Forget the plain blanket, ham sandwich and juice box… say hello to an extravagant set up, unique snacks and much more than any basic picnic that comes to mind. Girls days, proposals, date nights, bridal showers, mommy & me, birthday parties or just for fun…luxury picnics are the next big thing in Cincinnati. 

Jewels Dye decided to bring the southern trend of luxury pop up picnics here to Cincinnati, Ohio. Her small business, Hey Sweet Cincy, ditches the idea of a basic picnic and makes them bigger, better and some would say ,’boujier’. It all started as she was vacationing in Savannah Georgia. Jewels went to Forsyth Park and noticed an adorable picnic set up. It wasn’t just any picnic though.. it was glamorous, fancy and it was nothing she had ever seen before! Jewels loved it and knew others would too.

She then researched businesses throughout Cincy, trying to find something like what she had saw. At the time, there were no other luxury picnic businesses here. That’s when Jewels decided to change things. Jewels began buying items, little by little. The next thing you know, she had just about everything needed for a luxury picnic. Tables, pillows, rugs, linen runners, centerpieces, florals and candles. With her creative mindset, passion of serving others and drive to make things look presentable, Jewels then  launched Hey Sweet Cincy.

“I love challenging myself and trying new things.”-Jewels Dye, owner of Hey Sweet Cincy

These luxurious picnics can be set up outdoors, just about anywhere throughout Cincinnati. Her favorite and most popular locations include, Alms Park, Ault Park, Eden Park and East Fork Lake. Each picnic is uniquely set up with an aesthetic look. Picnic guests receive craft sodas, sparkling waters and fancy homemade deserts in a charcuterie style. Jewels has a culinary background, so her treats are specially made & to die for!

Each package offered is based on the number of people attending the picnic. There are date night, small group, large group and celebration group packages. You can have up to 14 people attend (great for birthday parties). Every person has their own story and set up, which makes each picnic unique and special. You also don’t want to miss out capturing your experience. Hey Sweet Cincy has a photo add on to their packages. Props are provided as well as a professional photographer, so you can never forget your picture perfect picnic.

Out of all the packages, Jewels said that the date night packages are her absolute favorite. She enjoys taking pictures of each couple in love. Her favorite memory was during an anniversary picnic. The girlfriend surprised her boyfriend… he was blindfolded and had no idea what to expect! When he saw the picnic set up he was so shocked and very happy. Just like Jewels, it was nothing he had ever seen before! It was so much fun for Jewels to see the couple celebrate their anniversary. She loved being to be a part of their special surprise. 

So…are you ready to take picnic to a whole new level? All you have to do is book and show up, Hey Sweet Cincy will do the rest. To book your next event, private message Hey Sweet Cincy on social media. Hey Sweet Cincy has had a busy summer, gathering couples, friends and family members, while making memories at the park. Make sure you check out Hey Sweet Cincy’s Instagram or Facebook so you don’t miss out!

IG: @HeySweetCincy_

FB: @HeySweetCincy

There’s nothing better than a weekend brunch! If you’re located in Cincy, love a good brunch and you’re not sure of where to go, keep reading…

I asked around the locals in Cincinnati what everyone’s favorite brunch spot is and why. Here’s what I got:

•Red Feather Kitchen– Red Feather offers an upscale – casual dining experience, located in Oakley. Brittany C. was first to recommend this unique brunch spot. “Red Feather hands down has the best build your own bloody. The entire menu is 😍 *heart eye emoji*” – Brittany C. I can’t forget to mention, their sausage biscuits and gravy are to die for!

•Half Day Cafe–  Check out this neighborhood family cafe, located in Wyoming and now Mason. “We love the atmosphere and the building. The staff is amazing and the food is incredible (especially the Mango Butter Rum Pancakes)”-Danielle H. “We’re kind of thinking that Cincinnati breakfast should be a blend of expected standards and unexpected surprises.”- Half Day Cafe.

•Toast and Berry– Toast and Berry is located in the heart of Montgomery. Everything served is made with fresh, high quality ingredients. You will not want to miss out on their cinnamon roll french toast. Keep in mind, Toast and Berry does not take reservations.

•Sugar n’ Spice Diner– This diner has been serving Cincinnati since 1941! “Today, Sugar n’ Spice prides itself on creating a fun, friendly, comfortable atmosphere, serving the same great food that has kept people coming back for generations.”- Sugar n’ Spice. This diner has two locations within Cincinnati, downtown Cincy and Reading Rd. Every person gets a special surprise at the end of brunch… you’re going to love this place!

•The Echo– Located in Hyde Park, this brunch spot is one of a kind. The menu always has weekly features, you can check it out online before going. “I have been going for years. I recommend getting the hot mess!”- Becky T. Great food, great location! If you’re in for a Sunday brunch at the Echo, make sure you check out the Hyde Park Farmers market after you eat.

•Hangover Easy-“Favorite brunch spot is Hangover Easy because they have unique options!” -Christina L. Hangover Easy is known for having tons of selections. Savory, sweet and even lunch options for those who don’t like breakfast foods. Plus the cocktails are amazing! Located on Short Vine in Clifton.

•Boomtown Biscuits & Whiskey– It sounds like this spot has the best biscuits in town. “Best biscuits around by far. Like I could eat them until the point of being unable to breathe. They also have amazing Thai lemongrass shrimp & grits, and honestly so many other good things on their menu! Their service and owner/managers are also always fantastic!”- Emily W. This spot is located on Broadway Street.

•Northside Yacht Club – Brunch is only available on Sundays at the Northside Yacht Club. This spot is unique and I hear their bloody Mary’s are to die for! Bring your pup to brunch because the patio is pet friendly. If you hadn’t guessed already, this brunch spot is located in Northside.

•Crown Republic Gastropub– From bottomless mimosas to a hearty brunch, you can’t go wrong with this place! Crown Republic is located in the heart of OTR. I went myself and tried the business special…it was amazing! The portions were fairly large. I left brunch feeling happy + full.

•Maplewood Kitchen and Bar– Offers a West Coast-style cuisine. “They excel at all things I look for in a brunch place…brunch menu options are unique and taste  amazing! (Sweet and Savory). Juices are not an afterthought, they are fresh squeezed and delicious- not pre made. Their coffee is from an espresso bar…. no watered down crap in a canteen!” – Ali-Page W. Sounds like this place has it all! Located downtown and now in Mason.

•Taste of Belgium– Taste of Belgium is a restaurant group of Belgian-inspired eateries. There are currently six locations throughout Cincinnati. “They have the best waffles hands DOWN! I have tried a few and nothing compares, probably because it’s the best waffle ever”- Christina L. Emily recommends getting the nutella and banana waffle. The goetta hash is pretty bomb too. Check out their website (linked above) to make your reservation today!

Now you’re never going to run out of places to brunch! Feel free to let me know if you tried anywhere recommended. I’d love to hear about your experience too.

*For more details, make sure you check out the websites linked above. Hours of operation may vary due to COVID.*

Check out the Home with Hannah Downs blog for more fun things in Cincinnati. Stay tuned for brunch list number TWO, as I’ve received tons more brunch recommendations!

Have you ever thought about hiring a professional to pressure wash your home? Meet Israel Cruz, the small business owner of Cruz Pressure Washing, LLC. Israel is a husband, father, entrepreneur and longtime resident of Cincinnati, Ohio.

Israel provides professional power washing services in the Cincinnati area. “I enjoy being able to serve my customers by caring for their homes, and making them look the best they can be”. His mission is to help you increase curb appeal and the value of your home. “By doing the dirty work for you, you have the time to focus on what’s most important to you.” 

So...Why pressure wash? Here are five reasons why you should hire a professional pressure washing service: 

1. Guarantee safety of your home

2. Avoid dealing with chemicals and cleaners you don’t understand

3. A professional pressure washer will clean the hard to reach places

4. A professional pressure washer is insured to protect both himself AND his customers

5. A professional pressure washer is highly trained and equipped with state of the art equipment, ensuring that he has the right tools to do an excellent job on your cleaning project

It’s simple…don’t let the dirt build up before it’s too late. Keeping your home well maintained is the key to a healthy and safe home environment. When a home is kept clean and in good repair, it is less likely to develop even worse problems in the future. If that doesn’t sell you on hiring this small business, the before and after images will! *Image disclaimer: Images are in courtesy of Israel Cruz. Hannah Downs does not own the rights to these images. Images are for before + after service visual only. House is not advertised for sale.*

It’s no doubt that Cruz Pressure Wash LLC will increase curb appeal and the value of your home. Take care of the little things that add up, and check out Cruz Pressure Washing LLC. You can contact him @ 513. 288. 8829 | cruzpressurewashing@outlook.com. Also, make sure to checkout his website cruzpressurewashing.com.

Do you want to be featured in my Small Business Spotlight? Feel free to email me: hdowns@sibcycline.com. I’d love to learn more about you and your small business! #SupportLocal