Village Living January 2026

January 2026 | Volume 16 | Issue 10

MOUNTAIN BROOK’S COMMUNITY NEWS SOURCE VILLAGELIVINGONLINE.COM | STARNESMEDIA.COM

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A look ahead at 2026

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New mayor leading Mountain Brook through transition without disruption

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By KELLI S. HEWETT Mountain Brook enters 2026 in a familiar place: steady, confident and quietly ambitious, but with new leadership and a sharpened focus on how the city manages what comes next.

Newly elected Mayor Graham Smith, who took office following a leadership transition at city hall, describes the year ahead with three words: “continuity, stability and transition.”

“If you don’t think about your municipal government,” Smith said, “I’m probably doing my job well.”

Smith That philosophy — government as a reliable backdrop rather than a daily headline — shapes how Mountain Brook is approaching the year ahead. With approximately 98% of the city already built out, progress here tends to come through planning, partnerships and incremental improvements rather than large-scale redevelopment.

Vaughn McLeod’s path to Elviem in English Village

By KELLI S. HEWETT

M

ountain Brook continues to attract and foster a new generation of entrepreneurs, drawn by its walkable commercial districts, strong local support and reputation for cultivating independent businesses.

Among those choosing to invest here is Vaughn McLeod, a Fairhope native with Dallas PR experience, who selected Mountain Brook as the home for Elviem: Light of the Party, her elevated special-occasion clothing boutique serving clients in Alabama and beyond.

See ELVIEM | page 26 Vaughn McLeod stands inside Elviem: Light of the Party, her special-occasion clothing boutique seh recently opened in English Village. Photo by Kelli S. Hewett.

INSIDE

Sponsors.................. 4 City............................ 6

Schoolhouse...........10 Business..................12

Real Estate.............15 Events......................16

See 2026 | page 24 Sports......................18 Community............22

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Back To Work

All-South Metro

Veteran Mountain Brook city manager Sam Gaston joins Homewood leadership team.

Rocco Gray and Boyd Cooper lead Spartans with first-team selections.

See page 8

See page 18

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Village Living

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Village Living

ABOUT US

Editor’s Note By Kyle Parmley We’ve made it to a new year! The turn of the calendar always finds us all with the best of intentions: to get in shape, to eat right, to maintain better connections and relationships with friends and families, to work hard — the list goes on and on.

And what do we do? We typically fade back into the same old habits of previous years after a period of time. It’s just human nature, but it never hurts to strive for progress in all areas of life. I know I am certainly committing myself to that in a few aspects of my life.

Please Support Our Community Partners

One habit that I hope you continue (or start if you haven’t already) is reading this publication and getting value out of its contents. If you see something you like, let us know. If you have ideas to make things better or know a cool person worth featuring, let me know at kparmley@starnesmedia.com.

Here’s to a great year!

Alabama Pediatric Dentistry (6) Ambrose Kitchen & Bath (19) Amy Smith Gardner, State Farm (16) Aqua Systems of Birmingham (23) Bates Roberts Fowlkes & Jackson Insurance (5) Bromberg’s (6) Budget Blinds (13) Charles Schwab Matthew Bungo (12) Clearview Strategy Partners (27) CommerceOne Bank (28) Cummings Jewelry Design (1) ENT Associates of Alabama (8) Gardner Landscaping (3) Guin Service (1) Gunn Dermatology (14) Harbin Pharmacy (10) Ingram and Associates (15) Issis & Sons (21) Jefferson County Commission (23)

Publisher: Dan Starnes Managing Editor: Kyle Parmley Community Editor: Jon Anderson Staff Writer: Kelli S. Hewett Published by:

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Village Living LLC P.O. Box 530341 Birmingham, AL 35253 (205) 313-1780 villagelivingonline.com

dan@starnesmedia.com Please submit all articles, information and photos to:

Katie Crommelin, Ray & Poynor (4) KEYSYS (22) Leavell Investment Management (21) Linscomb Wealth (11) Little Hardware (11) One Man & A Toolbox (10) Oxmoor Medical Group (5) Piggly Wiggly (9) Prime IV (25) Ritch’s Pharmacy (9) South Dallas Turf Farm (7) Southern Home Structural Repair Specialists (12) The Fitness Center (7) TherapySouth (2) Till, Hester, Eyer & Brown (17) Virginia Samford Theatre (17) Vulcan Termite & Pest Control (4) Whitaker Roofing Company (8)

Contributing Writers: Solomon Crenshaw Jr. April Coffey Madi Mansour Lauren H. Dowdle

Market Manager: Tim Stephens Warren Design Editor: Melanie Viering Client Success Specialist: Caldwell Graphic Designer: Ted Perry Business Development Exec: Don Harris Production Assistants: Simeon Delante Account Exec: Cot Tindall Jenn Moon Operations Specialist: Sarah Villar

Find Us Scan the QR code (or go to qrco.de/ villageliving) to read the latest news on our website, find where to pick up the latest print issue, follow us on social media or sign up for our newsletter.

kparmley@starnesmedia.com

Legals: Village Living is published monthly. Reproduction or use of editorial or graphic content without prior permission is prohibited. Village Living is designed to inform the Mountain Brook community of area school, family and community events. Information in Village Living is gathered from sources considered reliable but the accuracy cannot be guaranteed. All articles/ photos submitted become the property of Village Living. We reserve the right to edit articles/photos as deemed necessary and are under no obligation to publish or return photos submitted.

Inaccuracies or errors should be brought to the attention of the publisher at (205) 313-1780 or by email.

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Village Living

CITY

Fire department adds engine pumper as council eyes truck ordinance

By SOLOMON CRENSHAW JR. Mountain Brook City Attorney Whit Colvin will draft and present an ordinance to address restrictions on commercial trucks at the next meeting of the city council in January.

Traffic engineer Richard Caudle, Police Chief Thomas Boulware and Colvin led a discussion in the pre-council meeting on Dec. 8 about the city’s ordinance concerning commercial trucks.

The discussion was prompted by communication — including photos and videos — from some citizens who suggested that the city should draft a weight-based ordinance for regulating commercial trucks.

Caudle explained that would not work for Mountain Brook.

“The discussion that we had is the city of Mountain Brook currently has no equipment and no training, and [it] doesn’t have really enough personnel to put on the road to be weighing trucks,” he said. “The bottom line of our recommendation on that one is we believe that it’d be appropriate for the city to decide whether you want to target three-axle trucks or two-axle trucks and pick certain wording based on those and not consider doing any type of weight-based ordinance.”

Council President Billy Pritchard said he wants an ordinance that can be enforced — “something to give it teeth.”

Boulware said an ordinance that begins with two-axle trucks would broaden the scope of vehicles that could be ticketed.

“A lot of the vehicles that we’re seeing [supplied] video or pictures of are the larger-type red trucks or Enterprise trucks that are very large twoaxle trucks that previously would not be subject to the ordinance,” he said. “This would allow us to address those issues.”

Left: Mountain Brook traffic engineer Richard Caudle at the pre-council meeting Dec. 8. Right: Mountain Brook Police Chief Thomas Boulware. Photos by Solomon Crenshaw Jr.

The chief added that the discussion opens the door for landscaping trucks, including small pickup trucks that pull trailers that obviously have equipment for commercial use.

“The language in the ordinance would allow us to address those issues,” he said.

During the official meeting, the council approved the purchase of a new Engine 3 pumper for the fire department as Fire Chief Chris Mullins described the challenge of buying fire engines.

“We’re continually trying to get ahead of the curve on ordering fire trucks, but it continues to be a moving target,” Mullins said. “We have two on order right now. One of those was supposed to be delivered in June of ’25. Now I project that it will be December ’26. That’s the first one. We have another one that we’re hoping to get early in ’27.

“Again, we’re trying to get ahead of the curve on this.”

The chief said the city has to move fast on ordering another engine because a price increase of 5% to 8% will come in January.

“That’s between $60,000 and $100,000,” Mullins said. “If we can go ahead and get it on order now, which we’re looking at delivering on that … hopefully a June 2027 target. We were promised the next truck in 18 months. Now it’ll be 38 months.”

City officials valued the chief’s efforts.

“I appreciate all the hard work and looking to save where you can … I’m all for it,” said Gerald Gann.

Said City Manager Steve Boone: “As long as we’re going to be in the fire business, we’ve got to have fire trucks — fire trucks that work.”

In other action, the council: ► Awarded a bid of $1,323,110 to Acre Group for Fire Station No. 2 landscape maintenance service.

► Authorized the city’s participation in the 2026 “Back-To-School” Sales Tax Holiday. ► Authorized a $3.4 million transfer from the general fund to the capital fund. ► Authorized the sale or disposal of certain surplus property. ► Awarded a bid of $221,730 to Southern Emergency Consultants for the fire department ambulance remount. ► Made the mayor and president of the city council liaisons to the First Responders Foundation. ► Granted conditional office use for Carlisle Moore Architects. ► Approved the purchase of a new engine pumper for the fire department. ► Mayor Graham Smith appointed Jack Darnall to the Planning Commission.

The next regular meeting of the city council will be at 7 p.m. on Jan. 12, 2026.

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Village Living

CITY

Veteran Mountain Brook city manager Sam Gaston joins Homewood leadership team

BY SOLOMON CRENSHAW JR. Parliamentary procedure calls for two council members to bring a matter up for a vote — one to make the motion and one to second that motion.

But Homewood Councilman Chris Lane couldn’t be bound by formality when it came to bringing on board Sam Gaston, who was Mountain Brook’s city manager for 32½ years, as a special assistant to Homewood’s city manager.

After Winslow Armstead made the motion and Paul Simmons gave a second, Lane chimed in with, “Third!”

Mayor Jennifer Andress echoed her endorsement after the unanimous vote.

“Everyone approves,” she said. “All of us enthusiastically approve. Congratulations, Mr. Gaston. We will see you tomorrow.”

Lane was still giddy as he took his turn for comments near the end of the council meeting.

“I’m 110% for Sam,” he said. “I can’t tell you how far back this goes and what it does for Homewood. I’m so excited. I’m looking for Sam as he comes in to structure a comprehensive organization plan to where all of our employees have a guideline to shorten places where we need to be shortened up and places where we overlap.

“With his professionalism, I think it’s going to bring great honor for Homewood,” Lane continued. “I can’t tell you how excited I am about this.”

The Mountain Brook City Council was in executive session prior to its regular meeting on Dec. 8 when City Clerk Heather Richards fielded a call from someone spreading the news about Gaston. It was not the first call on the subject.

“News apparently traveled fast,” Gaston said.

“I had people from Huntsville and other places

Longtime Mountain Brook City Manager Sam Gaston, left, is now a special assistant to new Homewood City Manager Cale Smith, right. Photo

by Solomon Crenshaw Jr.

saying, ‘I thought you retired.’ Well, I am somewhat retired.

“I was shocked how fast the word got out,” the veteran city manager said. “Good Lord, people are blowing up my phone.”

Gaston calls his part-time job a great opportunity for him and the city of Homewood.

“I’m really excited about working with Cale and the new mayor and council,” Gaston said.

“I know a lot of the department heads here in the city of Homewood, so it’s a wonderful opportunity for us. I’m looking forward to it.”

Former City Engineer Cale Smith was about a month into being Homewood’s acting city manager when Gaston came on board with Mountain

Brook’s neighbor to the east.

“To have Sam join our leadership team is certainly a benefit to the city of Homewood,” Smith said. “We’re excited to have Sam here. I think that Sam is excited to be here. And as we transition into this new form of government, I can’t think of anyone better to have on our team than Sam.” Gaston said he just wants to help the good people of Homewood.

“It’s not about me,” the 69-year-old said. “I plan on working behind the scenes, advising Cale, the new mayor and council [and] working with the department heads. Again, this is not about me. It’s about the city of Homewood and

their new form of government and to assist them in becoming the best they can be.

“Homewood was already a great community,” Gaston said. “I have a lot of great respect and admiration for this community and also for their leadership that they’ve got in place, both elected and appointed. I felt very humbled that they asked me to come and assist them, and that’s gonna be my role. It’s gonna be behind the scenes. It’s gonna be purely in an advisory and a mentor role. That will be it.

“I have been extremely blessed to [have] been able now to work for the two best communities in Alabama — Mountain Brook and Homewood,” the new Homewood hire said.

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January 2026 • 9

CITY

Mayor’s Minute

By Graham Smith A library that leads — and what’s ahead this month

is our very own O’Neal Library.

Our success is the result of a dedicated staff, a supportive community and a vision that sees the library not just as a building with books but as a place where community and curiosity take center stage. And this winter season, that spirit is on full display with a fantastic lineup of events for all ages.

Mark your calendars for two signature events at the

“A library outranks any other one thing a community can do to benefit its people. It is a never-failing spring in the desert.” — Andrew Carnegie One of the great priviGraham Smith leges of serving as mayor is getting a front-row seat to the places that make Mountain Brook such O’Neal Library. a special community. At the top of that list Kick off the new year with Burns Night on is the O’Neal Library. It serves as our city’s Jan. 24 from 6:30-8:30 p.m., a spirited celeliving room [and] learning hub and one of bration of Scottish poet Robert Burns. Enjoy the most vibrant public spaces in Jefferson bagpipes, haggis, poetry and live Scottish music — all free to the community. Guests County.

If you’ve ever wondered just how busy are encouraged to don their plaid, family our library is, the numbers tell a remark- tartan or kilt. Register at oneallibrary.org. able story. On an average day, the O’Neal Next up, the beloved 2026 Friends of the Library welcomes 450 visitors, and 1,400 Library Book Sale returns in February. The digital and print materials are checked out. festivities begin with the Preview Party on Over the course of a year, more than 175,000 Thursday, Feb. 19, exclusively for Mountain people walk through the doors, and residents Brook Library Foundation donors of $50 or check out over 480,000 items — a number more, who get first access to rare finds, first that puts us in impressive company. Of the editions, puzzles and frame-worthy prints.

19 libraries in Jefferson County, O’Neal con- The full sale opens to the public Feb. 20-22, sistently vies with Homewood for the third- offering more than 25,000 books across or fourth-highest circulation. Hoover leads every genre. Proceeds support teen and adult the pack with more than one million items programming. If you’ve never attended, I checked out annually (let’s give them a run highly suggest checking it out. for their money!), followed by Birmingham I hope you’ll commit to trying something Public with just over 500,000. And right new in 2026, whether at our library or elsebehind them, punching far above its weight, where. Cheers and Happy New Year!

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Village Living

SCHOOLHOUSE

Kate Beidleman, Mountain Brook Elementary

Beth Dean, Cherokee Bend Elementary

Amy Kathryn Gannon, Mountain Brook High

Sara Martin, Mountain Brook Junior High

Johnna Noles, Crestline Elementary

Tara Smith, Brookwood Forest Elementary

Mountain Brook Schools names Teachers of the Year

By APRIL COFFEY Mountain Brook City Schools recognized outstanding educators in November, selecting a Teacher of the Year from each of its six campuses. The annual awards highlight instructional excellence, leadership within school communities and a sustained commitment to students.

Each honoree also sat down with Superintendent Dicky Barlow for a video interview, which are available on the district’s website.

At Brookwood Forest Elementary, kindergarten teacher Tara Smith earned the school’s top honor. A UAB graduate, Smith described the recognition as “humbling.” Although her career did not begin in education, she said she eventually followed a “longing in her heart” to teach kindergarten. Known for her creativity, warmth and strong rapport with young learners, Smith said her goal is simple: “I love seeing them have those ‘aha’ moments, but I really want them to leave kindergarten loving school.”

Beth Dean, a fourth-grade teacher at Cherokee Bend Elementary, was selected. Dean has spent two decades at Cherokee Bend and 28 years in Mountain Brook, building what she calls lasting relationships “with my administrators, with my colleagues, with students and with the families.” Her commitment to both academic growth and character development has made her a respected figure both in her school and the community.

At Crestline Elementary, kindergarten teacher Johnna Noles received the distinction, calling it “quite an honor” and “a great surprise.” Noles previously earned the Ann Pritchard Award for Teaching Excellence, which Barlow describes as the highest honor in the district. She credits her success to the role models and mentors she has had throughout her career and hopes to pay that support forward to other educators.

Mountain Brook Elementary named Kate Beidleman, a second-grade teacher, as its Teacher of the Year. Beidleman, who said she

dreamed of being a teacher from a young age, noted the significance of being selected among such accomplished colleagues. “To be named Teacher of the Year somewhere like this, where so many greats are, and have been, I think it’s even more special than I realized it was going to be,” Beidleman said. Known for her ability to meet students where they are academically, she is praised for weaving creativity and engagement into her classroom instruction.

At the secondary level, Mountain Brook Junior High honored Sara Martin, the school’s librarian. Martin, who taught English for nine years before assuming the librarian role three years ago, said she was “very, very surprised” by the recognition. Barlow calls the library she oversees the “hub of the school.” Martin has played a key role in expanding digital literacy and fostering a culture that encourages reading and curiosity.

Mountain Brook High School selected Amy Kathryn Gannon, a math teacher and 2007

graduate of the school, as its Teacher of the Year. Gannon said she felt a “calling” to the profession at age 14, inspired by mission work.

She discovered a passion for mathematics as a senior taking calculus and has since become an influential mentor to both students and colleagues. Her work has contributed to innovative instruction and strong student outcomes.

Each of the six Teachers of the Year will advance to the next round in the district selection process, submitting portfolios that include written reflections, classroom videos and detailed lesson plans. From this group, one elementary and one secondary educator will be chosen to represent Mountain Brook Schools in the Alabama Teacher of the Year competition this spring.

District leaders praised the honorees for exemplifying Mountain Brook’s high educational standards. Finalists for the state competition will be announced early next year, with the Alabama Teacher of the Year named in 2026.

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January 2026 • 11

SCHOOLHOUSE GET TO KNOW

BIRDING CENTRAL

Brookwood Forest Elementary teacher Kathryn Stubblefield

By APRIL COFFEY Q: Please tell our readers about yourself.

A: I’m in my third year of teaching and love every opportunity my job provides to learn, explore and think creatively! I grew up in Hoover, just about ten minutes from where I live now, and I feel incredibly grateful to be part of the same community that shaped me.

Q: Where do you Stubblefield teach? What inspired you to become a teacher?

A: This year, I began teaching second grade at Brookwood Forest Elementary. I come from a family of educators who are deeply passionate about the craft of teaching, and I grew up watching them pour into their students, schools and communities.

Q: What do you love most about teaching?

A: I love so many things about my job, but if I had to choose a favorite part, it would be the people I get to share it with! My love for the classroom and my students extends to everyone who cares about them — both inside and outside the school building. I’m passionate about building bridges between home and school so students can see that

learning and wonder can happen everywhere and that their classroom learning is just as valuable as and very much connected to their growth as a whole person.

Q: What is the most important thing that you want students to learn in your class?

A: If my students take nothing else away from our classroom, I hope they leave each day knowing how deeply loved and capable they are.

Q: This school year will be a success for you if … what?

A: I think it will be a successful year if students truly take the lessons I listed above to heart. Our school and district do a wonderful job of helping students build the habits of an engaged learner — habits we hope will stay with them for life. For me, success looks like students building a habit of seeing in themselves the same kindness, intelligence, creativity and bravery that we see in them each day and then applying those qualities when they face challenges or new learning opportunities. If that happens, it will absolutely be a successful school year!

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12 • January 2026

Village Living

BUSINESS

Business Buzz BUSINESS HAPPENINGS

Village Living is spotlighting local businesses in print and online. Submit your business for consideration here: go.starnesmedia.com/business-spotlight

PERSONNEL CHANGES The Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce has added two new members to its team: Jennifer Chewning as membership coordinator and Jenna Nielsen as events coordinator.

Chewning, a Homewood resident and mother of four, brings a background in child life services and education. Her experience includes time as a child life Chewning specialist, preschool teacher and PE instructor. She will focus on deepening member engagement and helping enhance the chamber’s membership experience.

Nielsen, who lives in Mountain Brook, brings a creative mindset and entrepreneurial spirit drawn from her background in ministry, photography and event planning.

A mother to one child and expecting her second, she will lead Nielsen planning and execution of chamber events. Both coordinators will help the chamber continue its mission of fostering local connection, supporting business growth and strengthening community ties with a people-first approach.

NEWS AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS Embassy Suites by Hilton Birmingham, located at

Do you have news to share about a business in Mountain Brook or the greater Birmingham area? Let us know at starnesmedia.com/business-happenings

2300 Woodcrest Place, has completed a multi-million-dollar renovation, transforming its 242-room property near downtown into a contemporary retreat with Southern charm. All guest suites and meeting spaces, as well as the open-air atrium, were refreshed. New lounge areas, modern décor and upgraded amenities — including a Peloton-equipped fitness center — aim to elevate the guest experience. Ruth’s Chris Steak House remains on site for meetings and events.

Each of the hotel’s two-room suites now features updated furnishings, enhanced lighting and locally inspired artwork, including a nod to the iconic Alabama Theatre.

The redesigned atrium offers guests a place to gather, while updated conference rooms and event spaces are tailored to both business meetings and social functions.

The indoor pool, fitness center and public areas have all been modernized. embassysuites.com, 205-879-7400 KC Projects Public Relations, a Homewood-based communications firm, closed 2025 with strong results.

The agency generated more than $4 million in PR value, expanded its service offerings and was named a finalist for PR Daily’s Media Relations Team of the Year.

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Alongside national recognition, the firm delivered campaigns for clients across Alabama in real estate, nonprofit, hospitality and civic sectors. As it approaches its 15th anniversary in 2026, KC Projects is marking more than 6,500 press placements, $40 million in total media value and more than 350 client campaigns.

The agency, led by founder and Robinson president Krista Conlin Robinson of Mountain Brook, has grown steadily since 2011 and now supports a wide mix of local and national brands. Firm leaders say they remain focused on helping clients build meaningful connections through strategic media and community engagement. kcprojectspr.com

ANNIVERSARIES Ashford Hill for Henhouse Antiques is celebrating 28 years in business. The shop, located at 1900 Cahaba Road in English Village, is owned by Barbara Ashford and Judy Hill. In recent years, their daughters, Laura Ashford Gessert and Libby Hill McGowan, have joined the business and added a fresh, contemporary look.

They mix English with French, 18th century with 21st century and primitive with floral. The shop also features antique jewelry, vintage costume jewelry and handmade jewelry by artists around the globe. henhouse-antiques.com, 205-918-0505

VillageLivingOnline.com

January 2026 • 13

BUSINESS

From passion to plate

“

How Chef Daniel Briggs built Daniel George Restaurant and Bar

My father told me to make a list of 10 things I liked, narrow it down to five, then two and finally choose one — and go for it.

By MADI MANSOUR Daniel Briggs never imagined he would one day become a chef. His early path led him to study religion, followed by a career in real estate. Yet midway through that profession, Briggs realized his heart wasn’t in it.

“My father told me to make a list of 10 things I liked, narrow it down to five, then two and finally choose one — and go for it,” Briggs recalls. That exercise set him on a new course, one rooted in his growing passion for food.

Briggs discovered his love for cooking through gardening. “It came out of growing vegetables — the fecundity of the earth, being able to grow these things — and then it necessitates something to do with them,” he explains.

His culinary journey began humbly as a waiter’s assistant at a local grill in Birmingham. Though he was initially denied a cooking position, his persistence paid off. “No one gave me what I have. I had to give up something to gain knowledge,” Briggs reflects.

Determined to refine his skills, Briggs

”

DANIEL BRIGGS

A PARTNERSHIP BUILT ON COMPLEMENTARY SKILLS

Over the years, Briggs worked in several Birmingham-area restaurants before joining forces with longtime friend and colleague George McMillan III. Together, they combined their talents — McMillan’s expertise in Southern cuisine and Briggs’ background in hospitality and spa-inspired cooking — to open Daniel George, a restaurant that seamlessly blends their styles.

A NEIGHBORHOOD GEM

Daniel Briggs enrolled at Johnson & Wales Culinary Academy in Vail, Colorado. Afterward, he returned to his hometown of Mountain Brook, Alabama, eager to build a career in the kitchen.

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Why open in Mountain Brook Village? For Briggs and McMillan, the choice was personal.

As locals, they wanted Daniel George to be a dining destination unique to their community.

Briggs and McMillan designed the restaurant with local residents in mind while warmly welcoming visitors to the Birmingham area, as well.

The restaurant quickly became known for its simple yet refined flavors, crafted from farm-fresh ingredients delivered daily. “We use simple flavors with quality ingredients,” Briggs emphasizes.

Despite the white tablecloths and fine-dining presentation, Daniel George maintains a welcoming, casual atmosphere. The chefs encourage guests to enjoy the bar as a space to relax and connect.

FUTURE ASPIRATIONS

Looking ahead, Briggs hopes to continue working closely with his daughter, who manages the dining room. While he has no plans to expand Daniel George to additional locations, he aspires for guests to feel a sense of familiarity and warmth in the personal presence he and his daughter bring to the restaurant. “I don’t want more Daniel Georges. I want people to know my face and my daughter’s face,” Briggs says.

MORE THAN A MEAL

Since opening in 2000, Daniel George Restaurant and Bar has offered not only fine American cuisine but also memorable dining experiences. For Briggs, hospitality is at the heart of it all. “I hope customers feel like someone really paid attention to them and that they feel comfortable — not that they have to perform,” he states.

With its blend of culinary excellence and genuine warmth, Daniel George continues to be a cornerstone of Mountain Brook’s dining scene, embodying the vision of two chefs who followed their passions and built something lasting for their community.

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14 • January 2026

Village Living

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Healthier Skin Starts With Feeling Seen: Inside Gunn Dermatology’s People-First Approach GUNN DERMATOLOGY

A

t Gunn Dermatology in Mountain Brook, Dr. Holly Gunn and her dedicated staff offer full-body dermatological and cosmetic care, with any service, treatment or technology a patient could ever need.

“We’re truly a full-spectrum, one-stop dermatology practice,” says Rachel Stroupe, the Clinical Director at Gunn Dermatology, which has offices in Crestline Village and at Lane Parke in Mountain Brook Village. “We provide medical, surgical and cosmetic care all under one roof, which allows us to care for both the health and confidence of our patients.”

Not only that, but Gunn Dermatology treats its patients like people, not numbers.

“We treat you as a whole person with realistic, long-term goals to achieve your healthiest skin,” Dr. Gunn says.

“The atmosphere at Gunn is incredibly friendly and welcoming for both patients and staff,” Stroupe says.

“The culture Dr. Gunn has created at Gunn Dermatology is truly one-of-a-kind” says Kiah Graves, the HR Director and Practice Manager. “It’s an easy-going, positive environment with a strong focus on total patient care.”

Dr. Gunn extends that total care to her employees and makes her practice an empowering place for her growing, mostly female staff.

“We’re like a family,” Dr. Gunn says.

“We’re all invested in each other and helping each other learn and grow.”

“My coworkers feel like close friends, and I love coming to work,” Graves says. “Dr. Gunn puts a huge emphasis on making sure everyone feels beautiful, loved and accepted.”

“Being surrounded by strong, supportive women who truly care about one another makes a world of difference,” Stroupe says. “We work as a team, celebrate each other, show up during hard times and keep things positive. This environment allows us to build genuine, personal connections with our patients, as well.”

Dr. Gunn also strives to support the many working moms on her staff.

“Dr. Gunn is a mother herself, so she understands what it means to balance work and family,” Graves says. “She’s created an environment where all of us moms can excel in our roles at the clinic without feeling like we’re sacrificing time with our kids. The work-life balance is genuinely amazing.”

“As a mom, coming back to work has been easy and joyful thanks to the flexibility and understanding I’ve received,” Stroupe says.

“My staff is full of strong moms now,” Dr. Gunn says. “When we first started the practice in 2020, a lot of my staff were new college graduates. Then everyone got married, and a lot of them are having kids. I love that the Gunn Dermatology family is growing.”

“Dr. Gunn celebrates our families,” Graves says. “She loves all the ‘Gunn

MOUNTAIN BROOK: 391 Rele St. CRESTLINE: 32 Church St. CALL: 205-415-7536 WEBSITE: gunndermatology.com

“We treat you as a whole person with realistic, long-term goals to achieve your healthiest skin.”

– Dr. Holly Gunn Derm babies’ our staff keeps having.”

“I had my oldest daughter as a first-year dermatology resident, and the struggle was real, because I was learning how to be a working woman, and then suddenly I became a working mom,” Dr. Gunn says. “That’s a huge transition, and I try to help my staff find that balance.”

Of course, Dr. Gunn and the staff also love their patients.

“We have tried and true patients,” Dr. Gunn says. “We get to know them. We know what’s going on with their families.

Those patients stick with us.”

Gunn Dermatology offers many services, including cosmetic and surgical procedures, skin exams and acne treatments, as well as safe, effective non-surgical skin cancer removals.

A full-service wellness center, Gunn Dermatology offers infrared sauna sessions, injectables, laser hair removal and many other services.

The practice also offers the latest technologies. “One of the reasons our patents stick with us is that we stay at the technological forefront,” Dr. Gunn says.

One of the technologies offered at Gunn Dermatology is Ellacor, a nonsurgical, micro-coring technology that treats wrinkles — and not just on the face, “The Ellacor device just got FDA approval for body treatments, and we’re getting amazing results with that,” Dr. Gunn says.

Among the newer devices at Gunn Dermatology is the Tetra PRO CO2 ablative laser, which Dr. Gunn and her staff use for skin resurfacing.

“It’s great for smoothing the skin out, especially in terms of texture and pigmentation,” Dr. Gunn says.

The Tetra isn’t just another CO2 laser — it’s a next-generation technology that targets fine lines, wrinkles, uneven skin tone, texture or scars with precise laser energy.

“It allows us to do the procedure faster and more safely with less pain, a shorter healing time and better results,” Dr. Gunn says.

“There’s literally no technology out there to make the skin healthier and stronger that we don’t have,” she says.

Dr. Gunn opened her original Crestline location in 2020, fulfilling her nearly lifelong dream of having her own her own medical practice. As she looks back at the growth of Gunn Dermatology, she takes understandable satisfaction in becoming a successful female entrepreneur.

“There’s something good about women becoming powerful enough to dictate their own lives,” she says.

She also likes setting a positive example for her four young daughters, “I want them to understand that they have the power to make good choices and give themselves the ability to plan their own lives,” Dr. Gunn says.

The entire staff takes pride in Gunn Dermatology and its mission.

“Being part of a women-led team that delivers this level of comprehensive care to our community every day is something I’m incredibly proud of,” Stroupe says. “It’s a powerful reminder of what’s possible when women support one another, step into leadership and build something meaningful together.”

VillageLivingOnline.com

January 2026 • 15

REAL ESTATE

Recently sold homes in Mountain Brook

► ADDRESS: 2924 Balmoral Road ► BED/BATH: 4/4.5 ► SQUARE FOOTAGE: 6,021 sq. ft. ► NEIGHBORHOOD: Mountain Brook ► LIST PRICE: $1,950,000 ► SALE PRICE: $2,125,000

► ADDRESS: 3841 Forest Glen Drive ► BED/BATH: 4/4 and 2 halves ► SQUARE FOOTAGE: 6,490 sq. ft. ► NEIGHBORHOOD: Forest Glen ► LIST PRICE: $1,549,000 ► SALE PRICE: $2,100,000

► ADDRESS: 10 West Montcrest Drive ► BED/BATH: 5/4 ► SQUARE FOOTAGE: 3,886 sq. ft. ► NEIGHBORHOOD: Crestline ► LIST PRICE: $1,095,000 ► SALE PRICE: $1,100,100

► ADDRESS: 112 Heritage Circle ► BED/BATH: 3/3 ► SQUARE FOOTAGE: 2,763 sq. ft. ► NEIGHBORHOOD: Crestline ► LIST PRICE: $849,000 ► SALE PRICE: $955,000

► ADDRESS: 3526 Bethune Drive ► BED/BATH: 5/4 ► SQUARE FOOTAGE: 5,771 sq. ft. ► NEIGHBORHOOD: Mountain Brook ► LIST PRICE: $985,000 ► SALE PRICE: $900,000

► ADDRESS: 73 Cross Creek Drive E. ► BED/BATH: 3/4.5 ► SQUARE FOOTAGE: 4,472 sq. ft. ► NEIGHBORHOOD: Cross Creek ► LIST PRICE: $885,000 ► SALE PRICE: $890,000 SOURCE: GREATER ALABAMA MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE

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16 • January 2026

Village Living

EVENTS

Save the Date

MATCHA TEA MAKING: FROM LEAF TO BOWL ► Where: Adventure Classroom, Birmingham Botanical Gardens ► When: Thursday, Jan. 8, 5:30-7 p.m. ► Cost: Members $45, nonmembers $50 ► Contact: 205-414-3950 or bbgardens.org ► Details: Discover the soothing art of matcha in this hands-on evening workshop with chef Josh Haynes of Alloy Thai restaurant and tea ceremony instructor Ritsuko Asano.

Learn how matcha is cultivated, processed and traditionally served, then whisk your own bowl using centuries-old techniques.

► For more events news, connect with Village Living online by scanning the QR code. ► Have an upcoming event to share? Email Kyle Parmley at kparmley@starnesmedia.com.

AESTHETIC ROOM DECORATING WITH KATIE ROGERS

DIVORCECARE AT MOUNTAIN BROOK COMMUNITY CHURCH

► Where: Conference Room, O’Neal Library ► When: Saturday, Jan. 10, 10 a.m. to noon ► Cost: Free ► Contact: Katierogersfengshui @gmail.com or the library (205-879-0459) ► Details: The two-hour session will explore how color, furniture and art choices affect the way a room feels and works. Rogers draws on “the art of placement” to align personal style with practical design, offering tips for both bedroom makeovers and study areas. Registration is suggested.

► Where: The Commons building at Mountain Brook Community Church, 3001 U.S. 280 East ► When: Sundays, Jan. 11 to March 22, 5 p.m. ► Cost: $20 (including workbook) ► Contact: Jacquie Long (205-8027070) or divorcecare.org ► Details: This 13-week, in-person DivorceCare group for men and women offers support for those experiencing separation or divorce. Meetings are held in The Commons. Sessions are conducted in English and guided by caring facilitators with divorce experience.

O’NEAL LIBRARY

2026 MOUNTAIN BROOK CHAMBER ANNUAL LUNCHEON ► Where: Grand Bohemian Mountain Brook, 2655 Lane Park Road ► When: Wednesday, Jan. 21, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. ► Contact: (205) 871-3779 or mtnbrookchamber.org ► Details: Join the Mountain Brook Chamber for its annual luncheon celebrating civic leadership and community achievement. The Jemison Visionary Award, the Tynes Award from the O’Neal Library and the City Employee of the Year will be presented. Lunch and networking are included.

COMMUNITY SEED SWAP ► Where: Garden Center’s Auditorium, Birmingham Botanical Gardens ► When: Saturday, Jan. 31, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. ► Contact: bbgardens.org ► Details: Celebrate National Seed Swap Day with the Library at the Gardens, a program of the Friends of Birmingham Botanical Gardens.

Bring any open-pollinated, heirloom seeds to share — or come to learn, even if you don’t have seeds to swap.

Explore tips for growing from seed, connect with local gardeners and pick up take-home info. Free and open to the public.

MLK DAY 5K DRUM RUN ► Where: 1700 4th Ave. North, Birmingham ► When: Saturday, Jan. 17, 8 a.m. ► Cost: $20-$45 ► Contact: Call 470-444-9844 or go to mlkday5kbham.com to register or volunteer ► Details: Now in its 10th year, the MLK Day 5K Drum Run brings Birmingham together to honor Dr. King through movement, music and unity. The in-person and virtual event includes a one-mile fun run/walk, 5K and 10K — both USATF certified. Drumlines perform along the course, and proceeds benefit local school bands. Teams are welcome. Each entry includes an official race shirt.

Jan. 10: Aesthetic Room Decorating with Katie Rogers, feng shui consultant, 10 a.m. to noon.

Jan. 1 and 19: Library closed for New Year’s Day and Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

Jan. 14: Crafternoon, 3:30-5:30 p.m.

ADULTS

Jan. 22: BiblioTherapy Book Club, 4:30-5:30 p.m.

Jan. 6: Beginner American Sign Language, eightweek Zoom course, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Registration is required.

Jan. 28: DIY Yums, 4-5 p.m.

Jan. 12: Great Short Stories book club, “The Harvey Pekar Name Story,” by Harvey Pekar, 6:307:30 p.m.

Jan. 9: Sensory Play, Explore and More, all ages, 9:30, 10:30 and 11:15 a.m. Registration is required.

Jan. 13: Bookies Book Club, “American Fantastica,” by Tim O’Brien, 10-11:30 a.m.

CHILDREN

Jan. 12: Illustrator Art Club, ages 6 and up with adult, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Registration is required.

Jan. 24: Burns Night honoring Robert Burns, Scotland’s national poet, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Tuesdays: Patty Cake Storytime, ages 0-18 months, 9:30-9:50 a.m. and 10:30-10:50 a.m. Registration is required.

Jan. 27: Books & Beyond book club, “Gold Rushes,” 6:30-8 p.m.

Tuesdays: Library Out Loud Story Adventure, grades K-2, 3:30-4:15 p.m.

Jan. 28: Jigsaw Puzzle Competition, ages 18+, 6-8 p.m. Registration is required.

Wednesdays: Movers and Makers, ages 3-5 years, 1:30-2:15 p.m. Registration is required.

TEENS

Thursdays: All Together Storytime, all ages, 9:3010 a.m. and 10:30-11 a.m.

Jan. 6: Teen Advisory Board, 4:30-6 p.m.

Thursdays: SNaP, grades 3-6, 3:30-4:30 p.m.

Jan. 9: Game On, 3:30-5:30 p.m.

Savings & service with a smile

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VillageLivingOnline.com

January 2026 • 17

EVENTS

Chamber to honor community members at annual luncheon

By LAUREN H. DOWDLE The Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce will host its 2026 Annual Luncheon on Jan. 21 to honor several community members with awards, look back at the previous year and prepare for the city’s direction moving forward.

During the luncheon, Mayor Stewart H. Welch III will be honored with the Jemison Visionary Award for all of his service to the community, said Shelby Weir, communications manager for the chamber.

Having served as the mayor from 2016 to 2025, Welch initiated projects like building Fire Station No. 2, forming the First Responders Foundation and securing the Alabama Veterans Memorial Park. He’s also been an advocate for small businesses, having founded The Welch Group.

“A native of Mountain Brook, Stewart H. Welch III has been a civic and business leader for more than 40 years, and his long-standing service reflects the very spirit of the Jemison Visionary Award,” Weir said.

Other community members will also be recognized during the luncheon. Former City Manager Sam Gaston will receive the William Tynes Award for his meaningful and devoted service to the city and especially O’Neal Library, and the city will award its employee of the year. The chamber will also highlight a few of their volunteers who have contributed greatly throughout the year, as well as recognize the Leadership Mountain Brook class.

There will also be a review of the chamber’s 2025 annual report and remarks from the outgoing and incoming board president. In addition, the new chamber board slate will be presented to their membership.

“This luncheon is a celebration of the Mountain

From left, 2025 Mountain Brook Chamber Board President Ladd Tucker, Mountain Brook Chamber Executive Director Lizzie Maymon, former mayor and Jemison Visionary Award winner Stewart H. Welch III, and 2026 Mountain Brook Chamber Board President Katrina Porter. Photo courtesy of Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce.

Brook community and the incredible businesses at the heart of it,” Weir said. “It’s a moment to come together, highlight what makes Mountain Brook so special, recognize accomplishments from the past year, and honor community leaders and city employees who make a real difference.

It’s uplifting and a beautiful reflection of our community spirit.”

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The annual luncheon serves as one of the chamber’s key community gatherings each year, and it brings together business leaders, city leadership and residents to reflect on the past year and what’s ahead, Weir said.

“It truly sets the tone for the year to come.

We are incredibly proud of the state of Mountain Brook,” she said. “Our goal is to keep that

momentum going and continue celebrating the incredible restaurants, shops, services and business owners who make Mountain Brook extraordinary.”

The Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce luncheon will be held on Jan. 21 at 11 a.m. at the Grand Bohemian Hotel. Registration for the event will close on Jan. 15 unless it sells out earlier.

18 • January 2026

Village Living

SPORTS

All-South Metro Football Gray, Cooper lead Spartans with 1st-team selections

By KYLE PARMLEY Each year presents a mixed bag when it comes to individual performances. Some of the top players in the area put forth the great seasons expected of them. Others, however, come out of nowhere and emerge as the new stars of the area.

The 2025 high school football season presented exactly that. Brock Bradley, the Spain Park quarterback, earns the Under the Lights All-South Metro Player of the Year award for the second straight year. He completed his senior year with another incredible campaign, throwing for nearly 3,000 yards and leading a young Spain Park team to another impressive season.

Parker Floyd earns a share of the Defensive Player of the Year honors for the second straight year, posting yet another 100-tackle season and leading the Hewitt-Trussville defense to another lights-out campaign.

Then there are players who ascended to a new level, each capitalizing on the opportunity to become a top player on their team.

Homewood quarterback Kaleb Carson and Clay-Chalkville’s Aaron Frye share the Offensive Player of the Year honors, posting tremendous dual-threat seasons to cap off their high school careers.

Gage Nasworthy, Briarwood linebacker, will also be one of the Defensive Players of the Year after leading the area in tackles by a wide margin. ► Player of the Year: Brock Bradley, Spain Park ► Offensive Players of the Year: Kaleb Carson, Homewood, and Aaron Frye, Clay-Chalkville ► Defensive Players of the Year: Parker Floyd, Hewitt-Trussville, and Gage Nasworthy, Briarwood ► Coach of the Year: Stuart Floyd, Clay-Chalkville

1ST TEAM OFFENSE

► QB: Kaleb Carson, Homewood; entered his name into the Homewood record books with a big year, throwing for 2,697 yards with 29 touchdowns and rushing for 726 yards with 14 touchdowns. ► QB: Brock Bradley, Spain Park; threw for 2,939 yards and 32 touchdowns to lead the Jags back to the playoffs. ► RB: Joshua Woods, Clay-Chalkville; ran for 1,546 yards and 24 touchdowns. ► RB: Marty Myricks, Oak Mountain; one of two area running backs to go over 1,000 yards, scoring 10 touchdowns. ► WR: Corey Barber, Clay-Chalkville; still one of the top receivers in the area despite being the target of opposing defenses, going for 1,130 yards and 13 scores. ► WR: Tomon Felton, Homewood; had 1,160 yards and 10 touchdowns in a breakout season. ► WR: Kena Rego, Spain Park; went for 986 yards and 11 touchdowns in his lone season at Spain Park. ► WR: Dylan Cope, Hewitt-Trussville; posted 905 yards and nine touchdowns as the top Huskies target. ► TE: Nasir Ray, Clay-Chalkville; the “Swiss Army knife” of the Cougars offense, scoring five receiving touchdowns. ► OL: Caleb Boylan, Vestavia Hills; started for three years at center, finishing with a 90% grade this season. ► OL: Carter Fountain, Briarwood; one of the Lions’ leaders, starting for three years and grading out at 95%. ► OL: JT Jones, Clay-Chalkville; one of the top linemen in the state, played in the

Rocco Gray (56). Photo by Zach Irvine.

Miller Lee (11) and Boyd Cooper (19).

Photo by Alex Millender.

Alabama-Mississippi All-Star Classic. ► OL: Hudson Reed, Spain Park; an Alabama-Mississippi All-Star Classic selection as a leader on the Jags offense. ► OL: Rocco Gray, Mountain Brook; played several different positions for the Spartans and started 37 games over three years. ► ATH: Aaron Frye, Clay-Chalkville; threw for 2,305 yards and 25 touchdowns while rushing for 1,320 yards and 19 touchdowns. ► ATH: Charlie Taaffe, Vestavia Hills; threw for 1,592 yards and rushed for 827 in just nine games, totaling 29 touchdowns. ► ATH: Jonah Winston, Hoover; one of the most versatile players in the state, rushing for 625 yards and totaling eight touchdowns. ► K: Joseph Del Toro, Clay-Chalkville; converted all of his extra points for the state champions. ► P: Ryan Swetz, John Carroll; averaged a whopping 47 yards per punt. ► ST: Hardy Butler, Homewood; one of the top-ranked long snappers in the state. ► ST: Tyler Kirkland, Chelsea; no bad snaps in four seasons as the starting long snapper.

1ST TEAM DEFENSE

► DL: Nic Gagliano, John Carroll; registered 92 total tackles despite being double-teamed frequently. ► DL: Jovon Pulliam, Hoover; finished with 91 tackles and nine sacks on a loaded defensive line. ► DL: Colton McIntyre, Clay-Chalkville; another disruptive campaign, with 21 tackles for loss and 12 sacks. ► DL: Boyd Cooper, Mountain Brook; finished with 55 tackles and 10 for loss. ► LB: Parker Floyd, Hewitt-Trussville; another triple-digit tackle season, with 103

tackles and 11 for loss. ► LB: Gage Nasworthy, Briarwood; led the area in tackles with 161, including three pass breakups. ► LB: EJ Kerley, Spain Park; reached 100 tackles as the leader of the Jags defense. ► LB: Alex Plaia, John Carroll; finished with 137 tackles and forced two fumbles. ► DB: Jayden Aparicio-Bailey, Oak Mountain; broke up five passes and totaled 40 tackles despite being thrown away from. ► DB: Tate Burdeshaw, Homewood; intercepted three passes and totaled 89 tackles from the safety spot. ► DB: Will Phillips, Hewitt-Trussville; another stellar campaign with 75 tackles. ► DB: Xavier Starks, Clay-Chalkville; finished with 68 tackles and 16 pass breakups. ► ATH: Woogie Crawford, HewittTrussville; had 100 tackles, 20 tackles for loss and eight sacks.

2ND TEAM OFFENSE

► QB: Cayden Hofbauer, Mountain Brook; threw for 1,666 yards and 16 touchdowns while nearly rushing for 1,000 yards, as well. ► QB: Kaleb Freeman, Hoover; threw for 2,130 yards and had 23 total touchdowns. ► RB: Chase Malone, Chelsea; finished with 822 yards and 12 touchdowns while battling injuries. ► RB: Deuce Alston, Hewitt-Trussville; finished with 694 yards and nine touchdowns. ► WR: Luke Stubbs, Vestavia Hills; caught 54 passes for 726 yards and four touchdowns. ► WR: Mason McClure, Spain Park; came on strong this year with 826 yards and nine scores. ► WR: Jeremiah Tabb, Hoover; had 741 yards and eight touchdowns for the Bucs.

► WR: Sam Canale, Briarwood; moved to receiver this year and posted 786 yards. ► TE: J.T. Watts, Homewood; scored a couple of touchdowns. ► OL: Luke Kelly, Oak Mountain; led the Eagles in knockdowns in his third year as a starter. ► OL: Rob Schoenvogel, Mountain Brook; moved over from the defensive line and only allowed two sacks. ► OL: Lamar King, Hoover; played three positions as a versatile piece for the Bucs. ► OL: Brooks Dixon, Chelsea; had a 17-knockdown game and graded at 91% on the year. ► OL: Christian Bennett, Clay-Chalkville; paved the way for a strong running game. ► ATH: Jackson Rankin, John Carroll; scored nine offensive touchdowns and a defensive touchdown and made 71 tackles. ► ATH: CJ Davis, Hewitt-Trussville; scored eight total touchdowns. ► ATH: Morgan Barnes, Chelsea; totaled 10 touchdowns. ► K: James Bryant, Hoover; nailed all 10 field goals, including the 55-yard game-winner against Thompson. ► P: Grant Morrison, Hoover; averaged 40 yards per punt, putting 14 inside the 20-yard line. ► ST: Lincoln Anderson, Hoover; played center and long snapper for the Bucs. ► ST: John Leith, Chelsea; one of the most versatile players in the area, kicking, punting and playing defense for the Hornets.

2ND TEAM DEFENSE

► DL: Ethan Walton, Oak Mountain; had a huge season with 75 tackles, seven sacks and 17 hurries.

VillageLivingOnline.com

January 2026 • 19

SPORTS

Cayden Hofbauer (11). Photo by Richard Force.

► DL: Miller Lee, Mountain Brook; totaled 86 tackles and seven quarterback pressures. ► DL: Keith Richmond, Clay-Chalkville; had 17 tackles for loss and 10 sacks. ► DL: Justyn Hartley, Hoover; had 75 tackles, 11 for loss and seven sacks. ► LB: William Yoder, Oak Mountain; went for 106 tackles and a couple of forced fumbles. ► LB: Porter Schott, Chelsea; the leader of the Hornets defense, finishing with 126 tackles and six sacks. ► LB: Quinton Lowe, Clay-Chalkville; totaled 115 tackles and 17 for loss. ► LB: Zay Brown, Clay-Chalkville; led the Cougars with 122 tackles, including 20 for loss and seven sacks. ► DB: Hayden Chauvin, Hewitt-Trussville; finished with 61 tackles and led the Huskies’ secondary.

Rob Schoenvogel (53). Photo by Lindsay Handey.

► DB: Deon Callins, Clay-Chalkville; broke up 14 passes. ► DB: Brandt Aho, Briarwood; registered 64 tackles and broke up seven passes. ► DB: John Martin, Homewood; intercepted two passes and made 54 tackles. ► ATH: Trey Sanders, Hoover; went for 105 tackles.

HONORABLE MENTION

► QB: Charlie Vacarella, Oak Mountain; Jack Floyd, Hewitt-Trussville; Zach Benedict, Hewitt-Trussville; Charles Dedmon, Briarwood. ► RB: Stuart Andrews, Mountain Brook; Davis Griffin, Homewood. ► WR: Kasen Lemons, Oak Mountain; Hunter Purdue, Hoover; David Walden, Homewood; Dane Whitehead, Briarwood.

► TE: Hayes DeCoudres, Homewood. ► OL: Pearson Tucker, Vestavia Hills; Adam Brooks, Chelsea; Hugh Tighe, John Carroll; Hank Freeman, Briarwood; Adrian Derico, Briarwood. ► ATH: James Kelly, Hewitt-Trussville. ► P: Harrison Hebert, Briarwood. ► DL: Rodregus Lambert, Homewood; Jamarion White, Hoover; Baasel Alabsi, Hewitt-Trussville; D’ante Seals, HewittTrussville; Randall Jaquez, Homewood; Paxton Ussery, Vestavia Hills; Garrett Witherington, Briarwood. ► LB: Daniel Richardson, Vestavia Hills; JC Schwender, Oak Mountain; Miller Crumpton, Mountain Brook; Jarrett Goldsby, Hoover; Antonio Wynn, Hewitt-Trussville; Harrison Malone, Hewitt-Trussville; Jamario Yadao, Clay-Chalkville; Joey Luckianow, Homewood;

Parker Lindsey, Homewood; Luke Eldridge, Homewood; Brooks Allred, Briarwood; Briston Hardy, Chelsea. ► DB: Owen Wilbanks, Vestavia Hills; Kennedy Silas, Oak Mountain; Clay Mills, Oak Mountain; Kolby King, Oak Mountain; Caden Ali, Hewitt-Trussville; George French, Homewood; John Griffin, Homewood.

Starnes Media's publications cover several communities throughout the Birmingham metro area. Schools included for consideration on this team were Briarwood, Chelsea, ClayChalkville, Hewitt-Trussville, Homewood, Hoover, John Carroll, Mountain Brook, Oak Mountain, Spain Park and Vestavia Hills.

The team was selected by Starnes Media’s sports department in collaboration with the coaches.

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20 • January 2026

Village Living

SPORTS

Mae Mae King (3) and Adele Moffatt (1). Photo by David Leong.

Lucy Comer (24). Photo by David Leong.

All-South Metro Volleyball Sullivan Lell named Defensive Player of the Year

By KYLE PARMLEY The 2025 high school volleyball season featured some new faces making deep postseason runs. Hewitt-Trussville returned to the state tournament for the first time in 36 years, Briarwood announced its presence as a force once again and Spain Park made another deep playoff run in its return to state.

But plenty of players and teams continued to make strong statements, as they have made a habit of doing. The Under the Lights AllSouth Metro Volleyball Team aims to recognize the top performers from the season.

Millie Burgess of Vestavia Hills is The Overall Player of the Year after capping off her high school career with another brilliant season. She posted 424 kills and 294 digs, and her impact is far beyond the stat sheet for the Rebels. She will head to Jacksonville State University next season, recently signing with the Gamecocks.

Chelsea’s Alexis Rudolph is the Offensive Player of the Year, as the only player in the area to eclipse 500 kills in the season. Rudolph earned this nod, but it very easily could have gone to a number of players, such as Johnna Cox (Hewitt-Trussville), Bea Wiggins (Spain Park), Julie Roberts (Briarwood) or any of the first-team setters.

Mountain Brook’s Sullivan Lell is this year’s Defensive Player of the Year, as the junior libero finished with 477 digs and returned to the Spartans’ program to command the libero jersey. She is a University of Southern Miss commit and had a season to remember.

Hewitt-Trussville’s Andie Freedman is the Coach of the Year after taking her HewittTrussville team to the program’s first state tournament appearance since 1989, missing the final by merely a few points. ► Player of the Year: Millie Burgess, Vestavia Hills ► Offensive Player of the Year: Alexis Rudolph, Chelsea ► Defensive Player of the Year: Sullivan Lell, Mountain Brook ► Coach of the Year: Andie Freedman, Hewitt-Trussville

1ST TEAM

► Outside: Millie Burgess, Vestavia Hills.

One of the top all-around players in the area for several years, she put together a great senior season to top it off. ► Outside: Johnna Cox, Hewitt-

Sullivan Lell (2). Photo by Kyle Parmley.

Trussville. Her efforts led the Huskies to their first state tournament appearance since 1989.

She notched 466 kills and 272 digs on the season. ► Outside: Alexis Rudolph, Chelsea.

Racking up 511 kills and 298 digs, she surpassed 1,000 kills and 500 digs in a stellar career that has a year left. ► Outside: Bea Wiggins, Spain Park. She helped lead the Jags to the precipice of the state finals after a strong senior season with 487 kills and 353 digs. ► Setter: Noelle Suellentrop, Briarwood.

The sophomore had an outstanding season, going for 1,076 assists and 252 digs. ► Setter: Cailyn Kyes, Spain Park. She finished with a sensational 1,144 assists on the year, along with 344 digs. ► Setter: Kayleigh Nguyen, HewittTrussville. She tallied 983 assists to spearhead Hewitt’s historic season. ► Libero: Sullivan Lell, Mountain Brook.

The future Division I player finished with 477 digs and led the Spartans’ back row all season. ► Libero: Camdyn Kyes, Spain Park. The freshman has already established herself as a great player, posting 541 digs. ► Libero: Cheyenne Conner, Hoover. She racked up 700 digs in a stellar season. ► Middle: Ja’Niyah Mosley, Spain Park.

The senior had 278 kills in another solid campaign. ► Middle: Sydnie Broom, Hoover. The imposing middle blocker had 244 kills and 109 blocks. ► Middle: Marley Cowan, Vestavia Hills.

The middle blocker finished with 160 kills and 102 blocks. ► Right side: Mae Noerager, Homewood.

The Trinity University commit had 229 kills

Darby Rhodes (32). Photo by David Leong.

and surpassed 100 career blocks. ► Right side: Marion Haskell, John Carroll. The Bucknell commit racked up 416 kills in a great season. ► All-around: Julie Roberts, Briarwood.

The South Alabama commit had a standout season, going for 436 kills and 258 digs. ► All-around: Abby Tingle, Hoover. She is a versatile player who finished with 310 kills, 70 digs and 63 blocks. ► All-around: Kamryn Coleman, Homewood. This strong all-around player finished with 826 assists, 125 kills and 109 aces.

2ND TEAM

► Outside: Sarah Johnson, Homewood.

The senior went for 357 kills. ► Outside: Caroline Whitehurst, Oak Mountain. The senior standout had 321 kills and 247 digs. ► Outside: Aliyah Pooler, Hoover. She had 271 kills and 268 digs on the year. ► Outside: Lucy Comer, Mountain Brook.

The sophomore had an impressive year, going for 313 kills and 291 digs. ► Setter: Darby Rhodes, Mountain Brook.

The sophomore racked up 808 assists and 230 digs. ► Setter: Isabella Marino, John Carroll.

She put forth 616 assists to finish her career with 1,467 assists. ► Setter: Addison Jenkins, Hoover. She had 574 assists and 232 digs. ► Libero: Christiana Callens, HewittTrussville. The leader of the Huskies defense had 544 digs and 158 assists. ► Libero: Sophia Bagley, Chelsea. The senior took advantage of her opportunity and had 359 digs. ► Libero: Lillie Hill, Vestavia Hills. She

finished her junior season with 439 digs and 109 assists. ► Middle: Walker Binkley, Homewood.

The senior finished with 157 kills and 58 blocks. ► Middle: Clara Crawford, Briarwood.

The senior had a great year with 223 kills and 214 digs. ► Middle: Layne Moller, Chelsea. The sophomore had 202 kills. ► Right side: Claire Ogden, Vestavia Hills. The senior had 172 kills and 72 blocks. ► Right side: Adele Moffatt, Mountain Brook. The junior went for 270 kills, playing in multiple hitting positions. ► All-around: Mady Kirkpatrick, John Carroll. The senior six-rotation player had 335 digs and 177 kills. ► All-around: Betsy Smith, Oak Mountain. The all-around player had 318 assists, 168 digs and 114 kills in her senior year. ► All-around: Kate Gordon, Oak Mountain. The versatile senior had 403 assists and 196 digs.

HONORABLE MENTION

► Outside: Leighton Hendley, Briarwood; Helen Morrison, Briarwood; Peyton Harrington, Spain Park; Reese Wolfe, Hewitt-Trussville; Lucrezia Vavassori, Hoover ► Setter: Anna Burnett, Chelsea; Brynn Toenes, Hoover; Kendall Wilkins, Hoover ► Libero: Addison Wood, Homewood; Presley Hull, Hewitt-Trussville; Maria Binder, Hoover; Lilly Kerr, Oak Mountain ► Middle: Anni McCarthy, John Carroll; Loren Purnell, Hewitt-Trussville; Eden Rainbolt, Hoover; Ally Ross, Oak Mountain; Chloe Shumate, Spain Park ► Right side: Emory Congleton, Hoover

VillageLivingOnline.com

January 2026 • 21

Named one of CNBC’s Top 100 Financial Advisory Firms in the Nation, and the #1 Advisory Firm Headquartered in Alabama.

2712 18th Place South | Birmingham, AL | (205) 879-1654 | leavellinvestments.com *Financial advisory firms, including Leavell, do not pay to participate in CNBC’s annual FA 100 ranking. To see the methodology for the 2024 edition of CNBC’s annual FA 100 ranking, visit https://www. cnbc.com/2024/10/02/fa-100-cnbc-ranks-the-top-rated-financial-advisory-firms-of-2024.html. Leavell is required to pay a licensing fee for use of the CNBC logo in our marketing materials.

22 • January 2026

Village Living

COMMUNITY

On the Mainstage

For more arts and entertainment news, connect with Village Living online: visit our website, follow us on social media and subscribe to our newsletter.

GET TO KNOW

SPOTLIGHT

O’Neal Library Reference Librarian Holley Wesley

Birmingham Boys Choir Executive Director Jeff Caulk

By APRIL COFFEY

By APRIL COFFEY

Q: Please tell our readers about yourself.

A: I grew up in Hueytown. My father moved there with my mom early in their marriage because he drove race cars and Hueytown — if you know anything about stock car racing — was a bit of a racing epicenter for a while.

Wesley Q: What do you do at the library? What do you love most about it?

A: I started at The O’Neal Library as a parttime library page when it was still located at Brookwood Mall while the current building was being constructed. I’ve filled a few roles since then, but I have been the reference librarian since 2005. My very favorite part of my job is reader advisory for adults, both in print and digital. I’m an audiobook power listener, so I also do a good bit of listener advisory. My best days are those in which I can help readers and listeners find something that becomes transformative for them.

Q: What attracted you most to being a librarian and why?

A: I volunteered in my high school library, but only because I liked playing “Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego?” on the computer. I never imagined that a short volunteer

gig would turn into my career! I leveraged that small bit of experience into my first real job while in college. People are always surprised to learn I suffered from severe social anxiety as a teen and young adult, so imagine my own surprise when I started working in a public library and it opened my world like a key in a lock! I discovered that I loved helping people, that suggesting books came easily due to my already voracious reading, and that my curiosity, attention to detail and my eye for pattern recognition were all perfect for a career that I honestly stumbled into. Luck was on my side!

Q: If you did not become a librarian, what would you have been and why?

A: My childhood dream was to be a veterinarian. I worked at the Vestavia Library from 1996 to 1999 while I was attending the University of Montevallo but decided to try my hand working at a veterinary clinic after graduation. I was at Riverview Animal Clinic for nearly a year — long enough to learn I wanted back in libraries! I started at The O’Neal Library in November of 2000.

Read the complete Q and A online at villagelivingonline.com.

Q: Please tell our readers about the Birmingham Boys Choir. When and how was it founded?

A: The Birmingham Boys Choir trains young men for life through the power of choral music. We are a nonprofit civic organization founded in 1973 by Caulk a small group of parents through a local church. The BBC serves 150 choristers annually, ages 8-18, from across the greater Birmingham area.

Q: What is your favorite thing about being the director of the Birmingham Boys Choir?

A: My favorite part of leading the Birmingham Boys Choir is the people! I get to see the transformation that takes place in our choristers, volunteers, concert goers and donors.

Q: Who can be a member of the choir?

What schools are represented among your singers? How are they selected for the choir?

A: We welcome boys from all public, private and homeschool backgrounds and take auditions from second to eighth grade. Auditions are designed to be welcoming and exploratory, focusing on each boy’s potential and passion for music. Our ideal chorister is not defined by musical talent alone but by a willingness

to learn, be challenged and belong.

Q: What is the mission of the Birmingham Boys Choir?

A: The Birmingham Boys Choir trains young men for life through the power of choral music.

Q: I know that the choir is a nonprofit. How can the community support the Birmingham Boys choir?

A: Community support is vital to our mission. Attending concerts, sharing our story, and partnering with us through donations or sponsorships all make a difference. This year, we are especially grateful for the support of our proud partner, Piddlin Art and Antique, whose generosity helps us offer the gift of music to Birmingham.

Q: What accomplishments with the choir are you most proud of?

A: Recently we toured through America’s founding cities. Our boys sing the national anthem beautifully, and one particular recording quickly reached over 150,000 views on social media. I’m proud of that achievement, but I’m most proud of the work done that led to that accomplishment in every rehearsal and day in the office. I love working for these boys and families!

Read the complete Q and A online at villagelivingonline.com.

VillageLivingOnline.com

January 2026 • 23

HOUSEHOLD DROP-OFF

2026 Events

(Inclement weather backup, Feb 7)

May 9

9-11:30 AM

June 13

9-11:30 AM

September 12

9-11:30 AM

October 17

8-11:30 AM

January 31

9-11:30 AM

March 14

Electronics/TVs /Paper Shredding Jefferson County Village Water Reclamation Facility 1440 Pleasant Hill Rd, Birmingham, 35224

9-11:30 AM

Electronics/TVs /Paper Shredding Jefferson County Valley Water Reclamation Facility 3923 Clear Water Dr, Bessemer, 35023

April 25

8-11:30 AM

Electronics/TVs /Paper Shredding Birmingham Zoo 2630 Cahaba Rd, Birmingham, 35223

Household Hazardous Waste/ Electronics/TVs/Paper Shredding Site 1: City of Bessemer Laydown Yard 1205 15th Ave N, Bessemer, 35020 Site 2: First Baptist Church of GardendaleSouth Location 940 Main St, Gardendale 35071 Site 3: Classic Car Motoring 3900 Grants Mill Rd, Irondale 35210

Electronics/TVs /Paper Shredding Jefferson County Center Point Satellite Courthouse 2651 Center Point Pkwy, Birmingham, 35215

Electronics/TVs /Paper Shredding Birmingham City Hall / Linn Park 710 20th St N, Birmingham, 35203

Household Hazardous Waste/ Electronics/TVs/Paper Shredding Site 1: Camp Bessemer 3295 King St, Bessemer, 35023

Site 2: Camp Ketona 121 County Shop Rd, Birmingham, 35217

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24 • January 2026

Brookwood Village is poised for its next phase of redevelopment, with Andrews Sports Medicine planning to move into the former Belk building on the Homewood side of the mall. City leaders say the project reflects Mountain Brook’s measured approach to growth — emphasizing regional collaboration, long-term planning and connectivity as construction activity is expected to resume in 2026. File photo, rendering courtesy of Homewood City Council.

2026

CONTINUED from page 1 In 2026, residents will see that approach play out across infrastructure investments, regional collaboration, fiscal policy and a village economy that continues to outperform expectations

NEW ADMINISTRATION’S FIRST MOVES

Smith says one of the biggest surprises of the early transition has been the internal momentum at city hall.

“I was incredibly nervous, not going to lie,” she said. “We are firing on all cylinders.”

She credits both new and existing staff, along with a council that has come together quickly. “Our council has gotten together like never before,” Smith said. “We have developed friendships, relationships. New ideas are coming in left and right.”

Still, the tone is deliberate rather than flashy.

Mountain Brook’s constraints — limited developable land and a conservative fiscal approach — shape what leadership prioritizes.

“We work on the margins in Mountain Brook,” Smith said. “We look at micro, incremental ways to continually make the city better.”

Those improvements may not always be obvious, she said, but they matter. “It might be an enhancement to the police force that one may never see,” she said, “or a modification to traffic patterns, or applying for grants to build sidewalks or roundabouts.”

Renovations to the O’Neal Library are among the first capital projects expected to move forward as Mountain Brook’s new one-cent sales tax takes effect in 2026, part of the city’s long-term, conservative approach to maintaining and improving core community assets.

File photo.

A ONE-CENT SALES TAX — AND WHAT RESIDENTS WILL SEE

On April 1, 2026, Mountain Brook’s new one-cent sales tax takes effect, a move city leaders have framed as a way to stabilize long-term capital planning rather than expand government.

“That will allow us to fund our future capital projects,” Smith said.

Mountain Brook is unusual among Alabama municipalities in how its budget is structured.

Smith noted that approximately 40% of the city’s revenue comes from real estate, while about 28% comes from sales tax. At the same time, the city carries about $8 million in debt, with debt service accounting for less than 2% of the annual budget.

“We are incredibly conservative here financially,” she said. “We basically spend what we have to spend.”

The new sales tax, Smith said, creates breathing room as costs rise and long-planned projects move forward. Among the first priorities residents are likely to see funded are the renovation of the O’Neal Library, replacement of two aging bridges through a process led by the Alabama Department of Transportation and upgrades at Public Works, including a storm shelter for employees.

“It’s not about reinventing anything,” Smith said. “We are a planned city.”

BROOKWOOD VILLAGE AND REGIONAL CONNECTIVITY

Few projects illustrate Mountain Brook’s planning philosophy better than Brookwood Village, where redevelopment is unfolding in phases across three jurisdictions: Mountain Brook, Homewood and Jefferson County.

The most visible next step is Andrews Sports

Construction of the Shades Creek Greenway is advancing in phases, with new segments expected to strengthen regional connectivity from Lakeshore through Mountain Brook and eastward, reflecting the city’s emphasis on collaboration and long-term planning as it looks ahead to 2026. File photo.

Medicine’s move into the former Belk building on the Homewood side of the mall, a roughly 135,000-square-foot project expected to restart construction activity in 2026. Beyond that, much of the site’s future remains intentionally flexible.

“We really need to work with the developer and see what they bring to us,” Smith said, particularly when it comes to residential components and tenant mix.

One commitment is already in place: shared sales tax revenue.

“We are committed to working together on the shared sales tax revenue,” Smith said, citing that the intergovernmental framework predates the current administration and remains intact.

For Smith, connectivity is the bigger opportunity.

“I believe there should be a connectivity point between what Homewood has done with that beautiful Lakeshore Trail and the Jemison Trail,” she said. “That would be an asset to the development overall.”

That thinking extends beyond Brookwood.

Mountain Brook is also watching the next phases of the Shades Creek Greenway, where Freshwater Land Trust is managing construction of a Birmingham segment that will eventually link Irondale Furnace Trail to Flora Johnston Nature Preserve.

As segments come online, the payoff is

regional: a continuous experience stretching from Lakeshore through Mountain Brook and eastward.

“We exist within this region,” Smith said.

“And it is imperative that we collaborate with our other municipalities.”

THE SSUT LAWSUIT

While collaboration defines much of Mountain Brook’s approach, one unresolved issue in 2026 is its lawsuit challenging Alabama’s Simplified Sellers Use Tax, or SSUT. The SSUT, created in 2015, applies a flat 8% tax to online purchases, with half of the revenue going to the state and the other half distributed to cities and counties based solely on population, not where the purchase occurred. Mountain Brook officials argue that formula no longer reflects how commerce works — or where spending actually occurs. “ We h a v e n ’ t Oliver nailed it down to an exact number, but it’s at least a million dollars or more each year that we’re losing,” said revenue examiner Ashley Oliver in prior reporting.

Former Finance Director and current City Manager Steve Boone has said the imbalance is structural.

“Only about 2% of the 8% online sales tax is distributed to municipalities,” Boone said.

“Municipal budgets rely on predictable and adequate revenue streams.”

Mountain Brook joined the lawsuit in August 2025, seeking reform rather than elimination of the tax. The outcome remains uncertain, but city leaders say Boone the stakes are clear: roads, public safety and infrastructure depend on revenue that more closely reflects where spending occurs.

A VILLAGE ECONOMY THAT KEEPS DELIVERING

If the city’s fiscal strategy is cautious, its village economy is anything but stagnant.

“Heading into 2026, the Mountain Brook business community feels vibrant and energized,” said Lizzie Maymon, executive director of the Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce.

She pointed to increased foot traffic across the villages in 2025, along with a mix of new businesses and long-standing retailers celebrating milestone anniversaries.

“That balance is one of the things that makes Mountain Brook so special,” Maymon said. “We have beloved legacy businesses that have served this community for decades alongside newer concepts that bring fresh Maymon perspectives.”

Infrastructure has played a role. The roundabouts leading into Mountain Brook Village, completed in 2025, have smoothed traffic flow and improved access — a change Smith believes matters economically.

“If people can get through the villages a little easier, they’re actually stopping and kind of bopping into the stores a little more,” Smith said.

The chamber is building on that momentum with new programming in 2026, including industry-specific roundtables, expanded training sessions and a data analytics platform that gives small businesses access to insights they might not otherwise have.

“We are growing sustainably, focusing on quality over quantity,” Maymon said.

Taken together, Mountain Brook’s top issues share a common thread: intentional progress without disruption.

“We’re going to be doing big things,” Smith said. “But I’m not trying to reinvent the wheel.”

Instead, Mountain Brook’s 2026 will be defined by pacing — aligning capital investment, regional partnerships and economic vitality in a way that preserves what residents value most.

“If you don’t think about your municipal government,” Smith said again, “that means we’re doing something right.”

VillageLivingOnline.com

January 2026 • 25

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26 • January 2026

ELVIEM

CONTINUED from page 1 McLeod’s arrival in 2025 reflects continued momentum in Mountain Brook, where independently owned retail thrives alongside strong community loyalty.

“I see a lot of similarities in growing up in Fairhope,” McLeod said. “Growing up with that sense of community was always very important to me, and from the minute I moved here, I immediately got that same feeling. Even in English Village, with all the merchants coming in to introduce themselves and offer advice or help — everybody has just been so kind. I’m just over the moon to be able to do this.”

WHY MOUNTAIN BROOK?

“I really just think Birmingham is such a destination for people,” said McLeod, who now lives in Forest Park with her Cavalier King Charles spaniel, Buoy. “They’re already traveling here for everything Birmingham has to offer. I thought this would be a great place to do it. We need something more centrally located for all the Alabama girls.”

McLeod earned a degree in marketing and entrepreneurship from the University of Mississippi before moving to Dallas, where she spent two years in public relations at a boutique, women-owned firm. There, she gained experience in branding, messaging and luxury retail marketing, later transitioning into event planning for a private social club.

Growing up in Fairhope, combined with those years in Dallas — a city known for its social calendar and emphasis on presentation — helped clarify her professional direction. Working closely with retail clients and planning high-end events reinforced her appreciation for thoughtful service, attention to detail and the emotional weight attached to special occasions.

“You’re investing in a gown or a dress for your most special moments in your life, so I want you to feel amazing and comfortable,” McLeod said. “I want people to feel very light. I want people to feel very comfortable, really doted on, really heard and really seen.”

When McLeod talks about fashion, she begins not with trends but with memories — of dressing up alongside her mother, of milestone debutante and Mardi Gras moments and of discovering how clothing can shape confidence.

“My favorite thing to do growing up was playing dress up,” McLeod said. “I had a big treasure chest of all different costumes, and I was a competitive dancer, too. I just loved pretty things and loved putting together a whole ensemble. That always made me feel very confident.”

Those early experiences, paired with her professional background, now define the atmosphere behind Elviem (pronounced EL-vee-um).

McLeod’s curation focuses on elevated special-occasion and formal wear, serving mothers of the bride and groom, wedding

Vaughn McLeod of Fairhope chose Mountain Brook to launch her new elevated, special-occasion clothing boutique, Elviem. Her emphasis is on client styling and customer service.

Photos by Kelli S. Hewett

guests and brides. McLeod focuses on bringing designers to Birmingham that in-person shoppers previously could only access out of state.

The boutique carries Safiyaa, based in London and known for made-to-order pieces with customization options; Catherine Regehr and Greta Constantine, both based in Canada and celebrated for refined silhouettes, bold color and striking design; and Acler, recognized for standout prints and modern silhouettes, often appealing to younger brides or second-look shoppers.

“These are the biggest moments in people’s lives,” McLeod said. “I want them to be able to look back and think, ‘Gosh, that

was such a great dress.’ That’s timeless.”

She has always loved going into a store and trying things on for a great shopping experience and styling.

“I value high customer service and warmth,” McLeod said. “I think it’s really important to foster an experience that makes you feel super comfortable.”

Elviem — often called LVM — is intentionally personal. The name comes from McLeod’s initials, Laura Vaughn McLeod, shared with her mother. Family influence is woven throughout the space, from antiques to design details, including a framed bridal portrait of her grandmother.

“It’s all a nod to tradition and family and all the things that I care about most,” she

said. “So it’s a very personal brand.”

The boutique is also rooted in a larger entrepreneurial vision — one that aligns with the evolving character of English Village as a destination for thoughtfully curated, exceptional, locally owned businesses.

“Vaughn’s vision for Elviem is a perfect example of the kind of thoughtful, high-quality business that continues to elevate English Village,” said Shelby Weir, communications manager for the Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce. “We’re thrilled to see her dream come to life in such a beautiful way. Attracting passionate entrepreneurs like Vaughn strengthens our community and adds to the vibrant mix of businesses that make our villages so special.”

Advertising in the right place?

Interested in what print & digital marketing solutions in Village Living can do for your business?

Let’s chat.

Cot Tindall Account Executive

404.791.9125

ctindall@starnesmedia.com

VillageLivingOnline.com

January 2026 • 27

NOW OPEN IN MOUNTAIN BROOK VILLAGE!

Happy New Year

We’re proud to announce CommerceOne Bank’s new Mountain Brook office in the historic Barton-Clay building at the heart of the village.

Leading our Mountain Brook team is Max Kunstmann, Sr. Client Advisor / Team Lead. Max brings years of experience serving the financial needs of families and businesses in the Mountain Brook community.

From personalized banking to tailored commercial solutions, CommerceOne is here to help you achieve your goals with relentless, responsive, and exceptional service.

Experience exceptional today!

CommerceOne

CommerceOneBank.com

Mountain Brook Office 2701 Cahaba Road

205.719.5750

In Mountain Brook Village Mountain Brook, AL 35223

Client.Services@CommerceOneBank.com