If you’re a home owner and you’ve ever looked at that unfinished basement filled with clutter and wished it could instead be your dream living space, now is the time to do something about it. Although we can use them as an area to keep holiday decor and those forgotten toys kids have outgrown, a basement can also be the perfect place for an entertainment area, your dream master suite, dwelling for aging relatives, a home office, or just about any other space that can add to the functionality of your home.
Architectural draftsman and designer Brandon Bretz, owner of Freelance Services, a residential architectural drafting and design business, advises that late summer to early fall is the ideal time to start a basement addition project. Doing the work during the early fall and into the winter puts home owners in a sweet spot, since the outdoor projects that many contractors are tied up with throughout the spring and summer are wrapping up, and may even place some contractors in a slight lull.
An example of a basement addition project drawn by Brandon Bretz. The drawings for this project depict the existing basement with the planned renovations of a great room, bathroom, and home gym area. Document credit: Brandon Bretz_Freelance Services
“I like to help my customers get the most out of their projects, not just from a design perspective, but also when it comes to timing,” Brandon shares.
Besides the possibility of finding contractors with a lighter workload during this season, there’s another reason to get started on that basement project now. That’s because the basement project would be fully completed before the weather breaks in the spring, a time when many contractors can be slammed with everything from roofing projects to spring storm repairs and other jobs that require good weather to complete.
“Having a finished design drawing before reaching out to a contractor makes good sense from a lot of different perspectives. It helps contractors get a better scope of the work, and can help them provide a more accurate bid as well as a more precise project timeline,” Brandon explains.
Another thing that can slow down projects before they’re even started is that people will often go straight to a contractor with their ideas about the project, but some contractors want to see drawings that outline design intent before they’ll bid a job and start working on the project.
Working with Brandon on a design means clients will have drawings that show design intent to a perspective contractor. These drawings can help contractors provide a more accurate bid and project timeline. Photo credit: Amanda Bretz_The Socialite.
“By reaching out to a design professional like myself first, I can work with the client to find out what they want to do, I can get that design down on paper, and then the client has the project drawings in hand to take to a contractor to get accurate project bids.”
Basement finishes or other indoor renovations can often take longer in the summer and a shorter amount of time to complete in the winter and early spring when contractors’ workloads can be slower. And if your project requires incorporating access from the existing house into the project design, such as the case if a client wishes to finish their walkout basement and also add a patio or overhang feature, it’s important to remember that can also add to the project’s completion timeline.
Brandon describes possible project scenarios and why timelines can be crucial to meeting a customer’s needs. Video credit: Produced by Alex Don Media Group
If you’re thinking about finishing your basement, designing an addition, or building your dream home, view Brandon’s portfolio of work on his website. Want to learn even more about Brandon, his professional background, and why he started Freelance Services? You can find out more about him in this advertorial that was published last month.
You can also connect with Brandon on Facebook or call/text him at 314-799-9272.
This year the celebrations feel extra special since it’s not only the 4th of July, it’s also America’s 250th birthday, as well as being the year of the Route 66 Centennial. And area towns are gearing up for festivities beginning as early as Friday, June 26 as well as celebrations heading into the first week of July and on Independence Day.
Sullivan,Friday, June 26 & Saturday, June 27 Pyro’s Firework Nightmare promises to be Sullivan’s biggest 4th of July celebration. This two-day event will feature access to the haunted house, food, drink, and craft vendors, along with firework displays each evening. Find out more.
Union,Friday, June 26 Macadoodles Fine Wine, Beer, & Spirits in Union is having a Passport to 250 Community Celebration from 5-9 p.m. Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy live music, bites from area food trucks, games and activities for the whole family, and more. Get more details.
St. Clair,Saturday, June 27 The City of St. Clair is having its annual Freedom Fest event at Orchard Park. The fun begins at 4 p.m. and includes food, vendors, face painting, live music, a fireworks display, and more. Get more info.
Bland, Saturday, June 27 The City of Bland is having an all day celebration at Bland City Park. The festivities begin at 12 p.m. and there will be concessions featuring fish sandwiches, hot dogs, hamburgers, and funnel cakes, as well as live music from Front Porch Trio and Hat Trick, as well as a fireworks show to cap off the event. Learn more.
Pacific, Saturday, June 27 Downtown Pacific’s 24th Annual Car Show & Block Party will feature over 500 cars, as well as entertainment for the whole family. The event runs from early morning until night, and will feature a fireworks display. Find out more.
Owensville, Sunday, June 28 Head to Memorial Park in Owensville to celebrate the 4th of July holiday and America’s 250th Anniversary early. The festivities will include a picnic starting at 4 p.m. and fireworks at approximately 9:30 p.m. There will be food and beverages for purchase with cash only at ticket booth, along with fun events for kids and adults of all ages starting at 5 p.m. Learn more.
Rolla, Wednesday, July 1 – Saturday, July 4 Rolla’s annual Lion’s Club Carnival is happening from July 1-4. The festivities will include a drone show the evening of Thursday, July 2, as well as a parade and fireworks display on July 4th. Get more details.
Union, Friday, July 3 The City of Union will have its fireworks display at Veterans Memorial Park at approximately 9:30 p.m. Bring lawn chairs, coolers, blankets and yard games to make an evening of it at the park. There will be concessions available for purchase as well as a beer garden. Sky Candle Band will be performing at 6:30 p.m. and there will be a free face painter for the children along with balloon sculpting and barrel rides. Find out more.
Marthasville, Friday, July 3 The Marthasville Ballpark is the place to be for free, family fun. Enjoy live music by Twisted Fiction, find food at the concession stand which will be open from 6-10 p.m., there will also be a bounce house, the Honor Guard will make an appearance at 9:15 p.m., and a firework display at dark. Bring the whole family out for some fun and celebration! Get more details.
Cuba, Friday, July 3 Head to Hood Park in Cuba for a fireworks display that will begin at dusk. Find out more.
Sullivan, Saturday, July 4 The Celebrate America 2026 Fireworks Display at the Sullivan Fairgrounds will begin at approximately 9 – 9:15 p.m. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets and watch the fireworks. Learn more.
Salem, Saturday, July 4 The town of Salem will have an Independence Day celebration that includes food vendors, fireworks, and more. Find out more.
Eureka, Saturday, July 4 Six Flags will host Star Spangled Nights, with patriotic celebrations happening throughout the day at the park including eight all-new shows, patriotic music, and a fireworks display to cap off the special day. Get tickets.
Rosebud, Saturday, July 4 Celebrate America’s 250th birthday in Rosebud. Hear live music performed by Big Daddy Rooster from 6-8:30 p.m., concessions, a kids candy cannon, and a fireworks display. Check out the details.
Washington, Saturday, July 4 The Star Spangled 4th Fireworks celebration is happening from 6-10 p.m. at the Washington Fairgrounds. Find food vendors, live music, kids activities, craft vendors, and a fireworks show at 9:30 p.m. Get more info.
Steelville, Saturday, July 4 Freedom Fest in Steelville will feature live music performed by Bob Kraus, The Lone Pine Band, and Borderline, as well as a car cruise-in, food and craft booths, and fireworks. Learn more.
Eureka, Saturday, July 4 Head to Central Avenue Spur in Eureka at 6 p.m. for the 250 Years Independence Day Celebration that will include music by Steven Woolley & The Groove. Find out more.
Pacific, Saturday, July 4 Celebrate America’s 250th birthday along with the Route 66 Centennial at Pacific’s 4th of July Parade. There will be classic cars, a float celebrating veterans, a live bald eagle, plus first responders, and more. Learn more.
This week there’s crafting opportunities, spring markets, the Route 66 Centennial celebrations kick off this week, plus there’s local Kentucky Derby parties, and a lot more.
Remember to double check with event venues before heading out just in case an event gets canceled or rescheduled.
Did I miss an event? Tag me on Facebook or Instagram and I can share the event in my stories.
Wednesday, April 29 Get a jump start on your gift for mom at the Mother’s Day Crafting event at The Washington Public Library at 4 p.m. Get more details.
Friday, May 1 The Washington Public Library is having a Gilmore Girls Coffee, Art, and Watch Party from 1-4 p.m. The library will provide supplies to make a “coffee art” print while watching a few episodes of the iconic TV series. Feel free to bring snacks! Find out more.
Friday, May 1 Grab your bestie and join for a fun, feel-good night at the HoM Healing Center in Pacific from 6–8 p.m. at the Sips, Shopping, and Self-Care event. Spend the evening enjoying sips, shopping with amazing local vendors, having self-care + wellness experiences, and all the good vibes. Get more info.
Friday, May 1 Union’s first Concert in the Park of the season is happening from 6:30-9:30 p.m. at the large pavilion located at 575 Christina Ave. in Union. Bring lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy the evening of free music. Learn more.
Saturday, May 2 Eight Nine Eight Cigar Lounge & Bar in Washington is celebrating “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports!” Spend the evening in your finest garb – hats, fascinators, seer suckers, pastels. The race will be on at 5:57pm, but the entire evening will be filled with proper ladies and gentleman sipping on mint juleps…and Eight Nine Eight’s other incredible cocktails. Check out the details.
Saturday, May 2 Franklin County Foster Closet’s Run for Love 5k is a fun way to kick off Foster Care Awareness Month! Join as a runner, walker, couch supporter or sponsor. Get more info.
Saturday, May 2 First Baptist Church in St. Clair is having a Family Feud night. The event is free, and childcare will be provided. Dinner, including gluten-free options, will also be provided. Get more info.
Advertisement – Need more space in your current home? Whether you’ve been dreaming about upgrading your kitchen, adding another bathroom or bedroom, a new deck or an outdoor space, Freelance Services can help with that! Reach out today to talk about your project!
Saturday, May 2 Attend the Kentucky Derby Party at Mangia Bella’s at Elijah McLeans in Washington. The event is from 4-10 and will feature games live music, and more. Get more details.
Saturday, May 2 The Labaddie Spring Outdoor Market is happening from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Shop from local makers and food vendors. Find out more.
Saturday, May 2 Head to the Washington Riverfront for a morning of riverfront yoga by Present Moment Yoga. The sunrise practice begins at 7 a.m. Learn more.
Saturday, May 2 Celebrate Kentucky Derby Day at McKelvey Vineyards, there will be live music all day with three bands, drink specials, and a party full of people in their finest Derby wear. $5 cover at the door. Get more info.
Saturday, May 2 Union Community Center’s First Annual Spring Market is happening from 8-3 p.m. This fun, family-friendly event will feature a variety of local crafters and vendors offering handmade goods, unique finds, and small-business favorites. Enjoy concessions and drinks while you shop and support our community. This Spring Market is a fundraiser event, with proceeds benefiting programs and activities at the Union Community Center. Find out more.
Saturday, May 2 Celebrate the grand opening of an equine therapy organization in St. Clair. Hoof to Heart Healing offers a one of a kind, hands-on experience with horses that supports emotional growth, nervous system balance, and meaningful connection…all in a calm, guided environment that complements licensed mental health care. Get all the details.
Sunday, May 3 Get crafty at R&R Ace Hardware in Sullivan the Plant, Paint & Sip event from 2–4 p.m. For $30 per person, you’ll get everything you need to create your own custom potted plant. Pick out your pot, paint it your way, and plant your greenery—all materials included. While you work, enjoy your choice of two flavors of boozy slushies. Seats are limited and are paid via Venmo. Reserve your spot.
Road Trippin’
Take a little road trip to some of these events happening within a short drive of Franklin County.
Wednesday, April 29 The Route 66 Centennial Car Show and Cruise-In is happening in Rolla from 3-7 p.m. See classic rides and enjoy food, drinks, and desserts available for purchase from local vendors. Find out more.
Saturday, May 2 & Sunday, May 3 Explore a unique selection of handmade goods and crafts from local vendors while enjoying award-winning wines and live music at this free event on Blumenhof Winery’s patio. Get more details.
Saturday, May 2 Maramec Spring Park in St. James is having a Bugs, Birds, and Blooms Pollinator festival from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Learn about Missouri’s natural resources, buy native plants, purchase from food and craft vendors, and enjoy live entertainment. Learn more.
Saturday, May 2 Step back in time and experience pioneer life at the Pioneer Day celebration in Warrenton. From 11 a.m. – 2 p.m., the Warrenton branch of Scenic Regional Library will have fun activities, demonstrations, crafters, food, live music and more! More info.
Saturday, May 2 Enjoy an afternoon of sipping, savoring, and celebrating local pours and flavors at Noboleis Vineyards in Augusta. Celebrate a special “Farm to Table” edition of the vineyard’s Wine with Friends Market! This event will be extra special with the appearance of some furry friends from Meyer Mini Farms from 1-4 p.m. Learn more.
Saturday, May 2 The Route 66 Centennial celebration in Rolla is happening from 2-7 p.m. and will feature live music, a cruise-in, food trucks, and family activities. Get more info.
Saturday, May 2 & Sunday, May 3 Back for its second weekend, Heartland Farms in Bourbon is having Baby Animal Days at the farm. This family-friendly outdoor event will feature 4H groups showing off their baby animals. The animals will vary by day, but should include chicks, goats, bunnies, bottle calf, and ponies. Other attractions will be open as well as a concession stand. Find out more.
Sunday, May 3 Celebrating the rich legacy of the Mother Road, America’s Main Street, the Route 66 Centennial Traveling Exhibit will be on view in Cuba beginning May 3 and running until September 14. The exhibit marks two major milestones: the 100th anniversary of Route 66 and the 250th anniversary of the United States. The exhibit is free and will be open to the public. Find all the celebratory details.
Have a public event coming up? Submit your event details like time, location, and cost to attend. Be sure to include your website and social media details so I can help spread the word about your event!
Get ready Franklin County, we’re in for a week of exciting spring events and entertaining fundraisers! This week, you can spend an afternoon crafting at a local library, experience a “smart zoo,” take in live music, take part in DIY group classes like crafting nights or cookie decorating classes, and a whole lot more.
Looking ahead to the weekend, there’s community fundraisers, the 2026 Missouri Book Festival, a craft fair, a city wide yard sale, a roaring 20s themed pub crawl, plus there’s plenty of events happening within a short drive of Franklin County like wine tastings, a grandparents brunch, and a star-gazing event.
Just a heads up! April is prime spring shower weather in Missouri, so it might be a good idea to double check with event venues before heading out just in case an event gets canceled or rescheduled due to weather!
Did I miss an event? Tag me on Facebook or Instagram and I can share the event in my stories.
Tuesday, April 14 The monthly Crafting and Creativity event at the Washington Public Library is all about decorating the community read book “Speak to Me of Home.” Don’t have a copy of that book? Feel free to bring your favorite book to decorate at this free event. Learn more.
Tuesday, April 14 Silver Edge Self-Defense at American Street Edge – St. Clair. This 55+ self-defense and mobility class is on a limited trial of two classes to gauge interest. Attend on Tuesday for the second of the two trial classes to learn practical self-defense, mobility, balance, fall prevention, and building real confidence in a safe, controlled environment. These classes are designed for the 55+ age group and are effective without being overly intense. The 30 minute class starts at 2:30 p.m. and attendees can come for free. Get more info on Facebook.
Wednesday, April 15 Have a zoo experience unlike any other at Lowe’s Parking Lot in Washington when Wild Adventures: A Smart Zoo Experience comes to Washington. The event is from 2-7 p.m. and features hyper-realistic and fully animatronic animals, including lions, tigers, elephants, pandas, monkeys, a smoke breathing 40-foot King Cobra, brand new dinosaurs, and more. Find out more.
Thursday, April 16 Music on Main continues at the intersection of Oak & Main in downtown Union. Enjoy live music performed by Dave Alans, with food and refreshments available for purchase by Elmer’s Tavern and Boxcar Express Ice Cream. Get more info.
Thursday, April 16 It’s the one month anniversary of American Street Edge’s grand opening. To celebrate, this Thursday only, both kids and adult classes are completely FREE! School opens at 3:30 p.m., kids class at 4:30 p.m. (ages 6 to 12) and the adult class is at 6 p.m. (ages 13 and above). As part of the celebration, one lucky new student (kid or adult) who attends that day will be randomly selected to receive a special gift from American Street Edge! Learn more.
Thursday, April 16 Experience the flavors of Puerto Rico at the Washington Public Library’s Taste of Puerto Rico event with food made by Jess from Little Lost Kitchen! Discover traditional dishes, ingredients, and cooking techniques while enjoying a delicious, hands-on culinary experience. Must register to attend.
Thursday, April 16 Grab your besties and head to The Painted Home in downtown Washington for Girlfriend Craft Night. This event will feature a Clipboard Class where attendees will design their own custom clipboard using IOD transfers or paint inlays. In addition to the crafts, expect music, chatting, and lots of fun and creativity. Attendees can BYOB and snacks. Purchase tickets.
Friday, April 17 Help raise funds for Labaddie Elementary School at the Annual Dinner Auction Fundraiser, held at The Historic John B. Busch Brewery Event Center in Washington. Get more info.
Advertisement – Need more space in your current home? Whether you’ve been dreaming about upgrading your kitchen, adding another bathroom or bedroom, a new deck or an outdoor space, Freelance Services can help with that! Reach out today to talk about your project!
Friday, April 17 DeAnn’s Dazzling Designs on Main Street in St. Clair is hosting a beginner cookie decorating class for all ages. The paid non-refundable class fee of $40 will hold your spot and includes a 6 cookie decorating kit, with everything you need to decorate your cookies and a box to take them home in. Sign up.
Saturday, April 18 The 2026 Missouri Book Festival is happening from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Washington Public Library. Discover new authors and mingle with other book lovers at this annual event. Learn more.
Saturday, April 18 Golf enthusiasts won’t want to miss the First Annual Jeffrey White Memorial Foundation Golf Tournament at Meramec Lakes Golf Course in St. Clair. Cost is $100 per person/$350 team of 4. Registration begins at 9:30 a.m. and the Shotgun Scramble 11 a.m. Dinner, beer, water and soda provided. Find out more.
Saturday, April 18 Step back into the Roaring Twenties for a 1920s inspired pub crawl in Union filled with speakeasy vibes, classic cocktails, and a little Prohibition era mischief. Dress to the nines or not, sip your way through participating stops, and enjoy a night of jazz age energy and surprises because the best speakeasies never give away all their secrets. Get tickets and learn more.
Saturday, April 18 Create your own Tea Garden using a variety of herbs at this workshop held at Hoffmann Hillermann Nursery. You will learn how to care for and harvest fresh ingredients from this garden to make your own medicinal tea. Save your spot.
Saturday, April 18 The St. Clair Saddle Club is having a Family Fun Day featuring free hot dogs, games, and activities for all ages. Find out more.
Saturday, April 18 The Union Moose Lodge is hosting a Craft Fair that is open to the public. Shop from area vendors from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Learn more.
Saturday, April 18 Attend the city wide yard sale in New Haven, which is happening from 7 a.m. – 3 p.m. There’s also a pop-up BBQ at Save-a-Lot, so get your fix after you’ve hit some of the yard sales. Get more info.
Saturday, April 18 The Scenic Regional Library St. Clair branch is hosting a tea and paper doll event from 1-2 p.m. Enjoy a spot of tea and cut out paper dolls at this free event for kids. Learn more.
Road Trippin’
Take a little road trip to some of these events happening within a short drive of Franklin County.
Tuesday, April 14 Countryside Farm & Market in Cuba is having a Plant & Sip event where attendees will make a hanging basket. The event begins at 6 p.m. and attendees will have the opportunity to make their own hanging basket arrangement. Learn more.
Saturday, April 18 & Sunday, April 19 It’s the Spring Wine Tasting Event, happening at participating wineries in the St. James area. Enjoy wine tastings at establishments including St. James Winery, Prairie Barn Winery, Spencer Manor Winery, Peaceful Bend, and Eagles Landing. Get more info.
Saturday, April 18 The Legends subdivision in Eureka is having a community spring garage sale event. The sale is from 7 a.m. – 12 p.m. Find out more.
Saturday, April 18 The first Starry Sky Night of the season is happening at Onondaga Cave State Park in Leasburg. Join astronomy enthusiast Joe Parish in the visitor center parking lot to view the cosmos with a high-powered telescope. Get more info.
Saturday, April 18 Country Cousins Antique Mall in Leasburg is having an outdoor flea market beginning at 8 a.m. Learn more.
Saturday, April 18 Attend the Ladies Night Out Shop Hop in historic Rosebud, happening from 4-9 p.m. Grab your girlfriends and make plans for a fun night out of shopping, sips, and good times. Get more details.
Sunday, April 19 Head to Brookdale Farms in Eureka for Grandparents Garden Brunch. Attendees of this ticketed event will enjoy a brunch buffet, crafts, and games, with the option to take carriage rides for an additional fee. Find out more.
Sunday, April 19 Spend a spring afternoon along Historic Route 66 with a guided wine and food experience in the heart of the Ozark Highlands with a 5-course wine pairing dinner. Get tickets.
Have a public event coming up? Submit your event details like time, location, and cost to attend. Be sure to include your website and social media details so I can help spread the word about your event!
