La scène

from VIE Magazine April 2021

The Great Unveil

Where It's At

Hotel Effie Grand Opening

Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort started 2021 in style on February 1 with the opening of its new luxury hotel, Hotel Effie Sandestin. Located between the Gulf of Mexico and Choctawhatchee Bay, Hotel Effie was designed to welcome all guests to an experience that exemplifies genuine Southern hospitality and exceptional service wrapped in comfortable luxury. The 250-room hotel also features an upscale spa, a state-of-the-art fitness center, the only rooftop pool and lounge on Florida’s Emerald Coast, and Ovide, a signature fine-dining restaurant with a menu curated by James Beard Award–winning chef Hugh Acheson.

**Annabella, Carla, Tom, and Sara Becnel**
Photography by Hunter Burgtorf

**Kitty Whitney and Alan Meyers**
Photography by Hunter Burgtorf

**Marta Rata, Lisa Burwell, and Emme Martin**
Photography by Hunter Burgtorf

**Outdoor lounge at the Ara Rooftop bar and pool**
Photography by Hunter Burgtorf

**Brendan Parker and Sara Becnel**
Photography by Hunter Burgtorf

**Bill and Pam Burden**
Photography by Hunter Burgtorf

**Russell and Michelle Harris**
Photography by Hunter Burgtorf

Young Professionals of Walton County 2021 Kickoff Party

YPWC said out with the old and in with the new at its Ew, 2020. Hello, 2021! kickoff event at Distillery 98 on January 14. Taco30a was on-site with delicious food, Distillery 98 served up its signature vodka and more, presenting sponsor Step One Automotive brought style in the form of luxury wheels, and DJ 30A spun dance tunes for the evening. A raffle, announcements from the YPWC 2021 leadership board, balloons by Mingle, and a bonfire by Rent Gear Here further set the stage for what is sure to be a good year.