VIE Magazine June 2021

W

e are proud to have represented the seller of The Renaissance House. Inspired by the famous

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202 West Ruskin Place SOLD by The Walton Group 5 BR | 5 BA | 5,526 square feet $3.55 million ©2021 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of Columbia Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate. Equal Housing Opportunity.

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LOV E L AC E I N T E R I O R S .CO M

In this issue On the Cover

Life is but a dream, especially aboard the dreamy Never Rest superyacht!

Berthing at the Baytowne Marina, located within Sandestin Beach and Golf Resort in Miramar Beach, Florida, this eighty-four-foot Maiora yacht is almost as stunning as our cover girl, Aisling Ryan. The cousin of VIE’s CEO/ editor-in-chief Lisa Burwell, Aisling is a vision in her BHLDN wedding gown, which she wore to marry her sweetheart Peter Bellotti in Cape Cod last fall. See their New England nuptials on page 24 and more from this nautical-meetsbridal cover shoot on page 112.

Photo by Romona Robbins Jewelry courtesy of The Jewel in Grand Boulevard

122

A BEACON OF SOPHISTICATED LUXURY ON THE ATLANTIC COAST IN PALM BEACH, FLORIDA, THE BREAKERS IS ONE OF THE CITY’S MOST REVERED AND ICONIC RESORTS. ITS MANY INCARNATIONS HAVE WELCOMED VISITORS SINCE 1896.

Photo by Felix Mizioznikov

FEATURE 112 Blue Skies Ahead: All Aboard the Never

Wherever You Are

Rest Superyacht

C’EST LA VIE CURATED COLLECTION 86

L’AMOUR 23 24 A Wedding on Cape Cod: Mr. and Mrs. Bellotti

30 Best Friends Forever: Mr. and Mrs. Salucci 35 L’intermission: Hot Girl Summer 36 “I Do” Times Two: Mr. and Mrs. Weller 42 Dreams Come True in Point Washington:

Vie is a French word meaning “life” or “way of living.” VIE magazine sets itself apart as a high-gloss publication that focuses on human-interest stories with heart and soul. From Seattle to NYC with a concentration in the Southeast, VIE is known for its unique editorial approach—a broad spectrum of deep content with rich photography. The award-winning magazine was founded in 2008 by husband-and-wife team Lisa and Gerald Burwell, owners of the specialty publishing and branding house known as The Idea Boutique®. From the finest artistically bound books to paperless digital publication and distribution, The Idea Boutique provides comprehensive publishing services to authors and organizations. Its team of creative professionals delivers a complete publishing experience—all that’s needed is your vision.

PUBLISHED BY

THEIDEABOUTIQUE.COM INFO@THEIDEABOUTIQUE.COM

84 The Coastal Connection: Corcoran Is

VIE BOOK CLUB: THE READERS CORNER 91 92 Reflections on Seaside 97 Petite pause: Salt and Sky

VOYAGER 99 100 A Fondness for Sand Dunes and Salty Air

Mr. and Mrs. Betts

106 Salt Marshes and Sea Beans

LE MONDE 47

111 L’intermission: Swimsuit Season

48 Dancing through Fire 54 The Finer Side of Life: Modus Photography

122 Florida’s Palm Beaches Shine 131 Petite pause: Seaside Summers

Expands in Grayton Beach

132 Panama City Beach from East to West

59 L’intermission: We All Float On

140 Do It All in Historic Pensacola

60 Nashville’s Beach

146 The Maine Attraction: On Top of the World

66 Save the Oceans: Philippe and Ashlan

at Cliff House

Cousteau Make Waves

LA SCÈNE 152

73 Petite pause: Down by the Bay 74 The Art of the House Drink

THE LAST WORD: BEACH TOWNS 157

80 The Past and Future of Virginia Key Beach

AU REVOIR! 161 V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 11

CREATIVE TEAM CEO / EDITOR-IN-CHIEF LISA MARIE BURWELL Lisa@VIEmagazine.com

FOUNDER / PUBLISHER GERALD BURWELL Gerald@VIEmagazine.com

EDITORIAL MANAGING EDITOR JORDAN STAGGS Jordan@VIEmagazine.com

CHIEF COPY EDITOR MARGARET STEVENSON

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS SAMANTHA ACCOL A, HANNAH BETTS, VINAYAK BHARNE, COREY BIRGER, SALLIE W. BOYLES, FELICIA FERGUSON, SARAH FREEMAN, ANTHEA GERRIE, SALLIE LEWIS, MYLES MELLOR, KELSEY OGLETREE, CAROLYN O’NEIL, BOBBY PARKER, TORI PHELPS, SUZANNE POLL AK, NICHOL AS S. RACHEOTES, L AURETTE RYAN, COLLEEN SACHS, JANET THOMAS, MEGAN WALDREP

ART AND PHOTOGRAPHY CREATIVE DIRECTOR TRACEY THOMAS Tracey@VIEmagazine.com

CONTRIBUTING DESIGNERS MOLLIE BAKER, TIM HUSSEY, OLIVIA WELLER, HANNAH VERMILLION

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS L AUREN ATHALIA, FRANK AREVALO, GRISHA BRUEV, BRANDAN BABINEAUX, SARAH COLEMAN, CAROL COX, LYNN CROW, L AUREN FOLK, JENNA K AYE FORBES, JACK GARDNER, JEREMY HARWELL, RICH HUDSON, ROBBY KLEIN, SHANNA MAGNUSON, RANDY MIRAMONTEZ, FELIX MIZIOZNIKOV, COREY NOLEN, BEN NUGENT, CAROLYNE PARENT, PATTI PERRET, CARLO PIERONI, BENJAMIN RASCOE, SHANE REYNOLDS, ROMONA ROBBINS, JAYDA RUST, EMILY VEAL, CHANDLER WILLIAMS, NATHAN ZUCKER, AISLINN K ATE PHOTOGRAPHY, AMAZON STUDIOS, DIANNA BERGGREN PHOTOGRAPHY, FOLK HOUSE PHOTOGRAPHY, GETT Y IMAGES, MOBILE VIDEO AND PHOTOGRAPHY, MODUS PHOTOGRAPHY, SHUTTERSTOCK

ADVERTISING, SALES, AND MARKETING DIRECTOR OF BRAND AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT AMANDA SALUCCI Amanda@VIEmagazine.com

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING KELLY CURRY Kelly@VIEmagazine.com

MARKETING AND SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER EMME MARTIN Emme@VIEmagazine.com

BRAND AMBASSADORS LISA MARIE BURWELL Lisa@VIEmagazine.com MARTA RATA Marta@VIEmagazine.com

AD MANAGER AMANDA SALUCCI Amanda@VIEmagazine.com

VIE is a registered trademark. All contents herein are Copyright © 2008–2021 Cornerstone Marketing and Advertising, Incorporated (Publisher). All rights reserved. No part of this periodical may be reproduced without written permission from the Publisher. VIE is a lifestyle magazine and is published twelve times annually on a monthly schedule. The opinions herein are not necessarily those of the Publisher. The Publisher and its advertisers will not be held responsible for any errors found in this publication. The Publisher is not liable for the accuracy of statements made by its advertisers. Ads that appear in this publication are not intended as offers where prohibited by state law. The Publisher is not responsible for photography or artwork submitted by freelance or outside contributors. The Publisher reserves the right to publish any letter addressed to the editor or the Publisher. VIE is a paid publication. Subscription rates: Printed magazine – One-year $29.95; Two-year $49.95. Subscriptions can be purchased online at www.VIEmagazine.com.

12 | JUNE 2 0 21

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S O L D E X C L U S I V E LY AT I D M I

Editor’s Note

Making MEMO RIES LIFE Can Be a DREAM

Truly special moments can create lifelong memories. The cover feature photo shoot for this issue was one of those special moments for me.

I

t was a glorious but blustery afternoon in late April as our creative team boarded the Never Rest; this was VIE’s first time out on the gorgeous eighty-four-foot superyacht by Maiora. Walking to the end of the pier at the Above, left to right: Baytowne Marina, loaded down with wardrobe Aisling Ryan Bellotti items, accessories, and all manner of paraphernalia Emme Martin for the shoot, I couldn’t help but think of Gilligan’s The beautiful Never Rest Island. The forecast was for rain and gray skies, but, just like Ginger, we would be prepared with outfits Photographer Romona Robbins and Emme Martin if the weather changed! Climbing aboard the magnificent vessel prompted a massive sigh of relief. We were at once protected from the elements and wrapped in luxury and comfort. This day kept getting better and better.

Prosecco was flowing as friends, family, and our team were greeted with a warm and hearty welcome from Captain Steve Hoyt and his first mate, Elizabeth Stowe. Captain Steve advised us that we had to set sail immediately for Crab Island, where the waters and wind would be calmer. So, we began our cruise, hoping for a window of time before the rain started. Our advertising brand alliance partner, Todd Reeves, who is the creative director and owner of isidro dunbar Modern Interiors, had arranged for us to use the yacht, which is owned by his friend and client Quin Flowers. It’s great to know friends in high places, and we’re so thankful to Todd, Quin, Steve, and Elizabeth.

Our cover model, Aisling Ryan Bellotti—my beautiful cousin—was married to Peter Bellotti in Cape Cod last September at the gorgeous Winslow Estate. My husband and I were invited, but due to COVID-19 restrictions, we were unable to attend. Our initial goal was to photograph Aisling for the magazine cover then, but we asked her to come down to sunny Florida instead and re-created a stunning bridal-meets-honeymoon story. Aisling donned her wedding dress once again for the

photo shoot and also posed in a few fabulous resort-style outfits alongside model Emme Martin. The beautiful jewelry was provided by another VIE brand alliance partner, The Jewel boutique in Grand Boulevard. Siobhan Ryan, Aisling’s sister and maid of honor, was also able to join us for this special occasion.

Todd Reeves,

Steve Hoyt, and See highlights from the Bellottis’ quintesLisa Burwell sential New England wedding in the story “A Wedding on Cape Cod” and more from the reimagined bridal shoot on the Never Rest in “Blue Skies Ahead: All Aboard the Never Rest Superyacht” within the pages of this issue.

As we all know, some days are better than others, and this was a great day “at sea!”

Never Rest owner Quin Flowers

To Life!

—Lisa Marie CEO/Editor-in-Chief Tracey Thomas and Lisa Burwell V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 15

The Creatives We collaborate with talented photographers, writers, and other creatives on a regular basis, and we’re continually inspired by how they pour their hearts and souls into their crafts. Follow these creatives on social media and don’t forget to check out our account, @viemagazine.

DANIELLE TORLEY

EMME MARTIN

“Dancing through Fire”

Marketing & Social Media Manager

@emeraldflamedance

IN THIS ISSUE, WE ASKED THE CREATIVES: WHERE IS YOUR FAVORITE BEACH TOWN, AND WHAT MAKES IT SPECIAL TO YOU?

Aside from the obvious best beach town (the Emerald Coast!), I absolutely love Las Catalinas, Costa Rica. Las Catalinas is on the Pacific and actually was inspired by Seaside and Rosemary Beach with gorgeous architecture and various activities and amenities. Best of all, it’s a pedestrian-friendly town with no cars allowed. We stayed there for a week with our family right as COVID hit last year and felt extremely safe with the measures that the staff and town were taking. We’ll definitely head back to Las Catalinas and would recommend it for an amazing, relaxing stay in Costa Rica!

@emmemartin

My favorite beach town is Miami, Florida— also known as Magic City. When I was seventeen, I moved there on a whim to shoot my shot as a model.

Going back always reminds me of being young and on my own. The city’s energy is unmatched, and I love all the food and art deco architecture. Being surrounded by so much Latin culture after growing up in a small Southern town was one of the first times I realized there were countless perspectives and ways of life in the world. I fell in love with how Miami gave me the freedom to be anyone I wanted.

LAUREN ATHALIA Photographer @laurenathalia

You’ll find my favorite beach town on the Forgotten Coast of Florida. It’s easy to notice just how special Apalachicola is when you drive past the mounds of oyster shells and through its old neighborhoods and park by the docks lined with fishing boats. My favorite things to do are strolling through downtown and shopping at Becasa and the quirky antique stores. I also love eating great seafood at Up the Creek Raw Bar, The Station, or Hole In the Wall Seafood. In the afternoon, you can find me sipping a cocktail from the Franklin Cafe, rocking in a rocking chair on the front porch of the Gibson Inn, or sharing a flight of craft beers at Oyster City Brewing Co. Taking kayaks out on the bay and scalloping with friends is a must each season! Anytime I visit Apalachicola, I find something new to love about it. That makes it a pretty unforgettable beach town in my opinion.

KELSEY OGLETREE KELLY BOSS CURRY Writer, “Salt Marshes and Sea Beans” Director of Marketing

@kbogletree

@kdb17

My favorite beach town, by a landslide, would have to be Fort Morgan, Alabama, due west of Gulf Shores. When I was growing up, my family always had a countdown going for our next vacation there. We have celebrated many precious life moments there, but the one that takes the cake for me is when my husband and I got engaged! The community itself has not changed much over the years; however, you can tell that the once well-kept secret is out. Things to not miss while visiting are shopping at the Wharf, lunch at Sea N Suds, and dinner at Fisher’s at Orange Beach Marina.

My new favorite beach town is Sayulita in Nayarit, Mexico. It’s about an hour’s drive from Puerto Vallarta Ordaz Airport and still feels sort of undiscovered. My husband and I visited this spring after we had our vaccinations. We had the best time exploring the colorful markets (he bought me a pair of hand-beaded earrings and a bracelet there that are so special to me), popping into local shops, watching the surfers, and eating the best Baja fish tacos we’ve ever had. Take me back!

V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 17

La conversation

Hello, Sunshine!

WE LOVE TO COMMUNICATE AND INTERACT WITH OUR READERS! AND WE LOVE IT EVEN MORE WHEN THEY PROUDLY SHARE THEIR STORIES AND POSE WITH VIE FOR A CLOSE-UP! THAT’S WHAT IT’S ALL ABOUT: SHARING, LOVING, AND BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS. WE THANK YOU ALL SO MUCH AND WE APPRECIATE YOU!

@mamamcakes Hey, Mama Mitchell! I don’t normally post two times in one day, but I wanted to show you something! … Your legacy will live on because I’m chasing the craziest dream I’ve ever had. To finally touch the pages, to have you in my heart and this @viemagazine on my coffee table forever is a real-life dream come true. Happy Mother’s Day, Mom. This one is for you. I promise to share your mother’s story forever and bring people to the table just like she would have wanted. @madrapr Thank you, @lisamburwell, for inviting me to model on this beautiful day for the @viemagazine Beach House – A Show Home Issue (April 2021). It’s an honor to grace your page 37!

Photo by @romonarobbinsreynolds

@avondalespecialtyhardware The best seat in the house? The kitchen island! Thanks to @q_tileandstudio for using our hardware in the @viemagazine Beach House – A Show Home!

@bridalsbytania Classic! Do you love this look?

Double tap if you do, and check it out on the cover and inside the June 2021 issue of @viemagazine!

LET’S TALK!

@lisamburwelll Missing @thecolonypalmbeach already. Look for it in the June Beach Towns Issue of @viemagazine!

@idmi_design New art Friday! Our artist in residence, @nathan_alan_yoakum_art_, is on a roll with some amazing new artwork and collaborations we can’t wait to show you on May 19 at our Open House + HOME Book Signing with @viemagazine!

Come by and check it out and enjoy refreshments and bites by @tiptoppropercocktails, @cc.boone, and @fireflypcb, plus giveaways and more.

Send VIE your comments and photos on our social media channels or by emailing us at info@viemagazine.com. We’d love to hear your thoughts. They could end up in the next La conversation!

VIEmagazine.com

V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 19

PROJECT: VIE Magazine Headquarters, Santa Rosa Beach, Florida ARCHITECT: Gerald Burwell FURNISHINGS: Modern Interiors, Miramar Beach, Florida

A MODERN WORK SPACE

114 Logan Lane, Suite 4, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459 BurwellAssociates.com | (850) 231-6377 Florida LIC AA0003613

L’amour

This Bridgerton–themed styled wedding shoot was created by Brooke Fleming, AKP’s new lead wedding planner, and we are falling head over heels for it! Visit AislinnKatePhotography.com to see more or to book your planner and/or photographer for your big day.

Photo by Aislinn Kate Photography

L’ amour IT’S ALL YOU NEED.

Since 2008, Aislinn Kate Photography has been photographing beautiful weddings from Greece to the Rocky Mountains. Now, this Pensacola, Florida–based company will be planning them too! Despite having ninetythree wedding clients cancel or reschedule in 2020 due to COVID restrictions and Hurricane Sally, AKP has managed to enter 2021 with a fresh new start. “We are so excited to be able to make this happen!” says owner Aislinn Rehwinkel. “We pride ourselves on offering the highest level of customer service to our wedding photography clients and we are excited to extend that to our couples in an even more in-depth way.”

V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 23

MR. & MRS

Bellotti A WEDDING on CAPE COD

24 | JUNE 2 0 21

L’amour ALTHOUGH AISLING RYAN AND PETER V. BELLOTTI III GREW UP LESS THAN TWENTY MILES FROM EACH OTHER IN THE SUBURBS OF BOSTON, THEY NEVER MET UNTIL SUMMER 2014. THEIR FAMILIES HAD LONG BEEN ACQUAINTED—AISLING’S AUNT EVEN BABYSAT PETER’S FATHER’S COUSINS WHEN THEY WERE GROWING UP—AND IT WAS A FATEFUL BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION FOR PETER’S GRANDMOTHER THAT BROUGHT THE YOUNG PAIR TOGETHER. “HE APPROACHED ME AT THE BAR AND LATER ASKED TO TAKE ME INTO THE CITY,” AISLING RECALLS. “THE REST IS HISTORY!”

o

n the official six-month anniversary from the time they began dating, Peter left a surprise card for Aisling to find when she woke up.

“Peter was friends with my coworker at the time, and I was in the office telling him how I thought I was getting engaged that day,” Aisling shares. “He stated that I should be worried about getting something else—along the lines of a dog. I immediately called Peter, and he said that he heard barking downstairs!”

Frantic about the day’s progression, Aisling even left work early and drove home to see if there was actually a canine in the house. As it turned out, her first instinct had been spot on. “When I opened the door, there were rose petals all the way up the stairs, and Peter was to the right on one knee.”

Aisling Ryan and Peter Bellotti wed on September 26, 2020, at the Winslow Estate near Cape Cod, Massachusetts.

V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 25

L’amour

T

he couple enjoyed a long engagement and planned to say their vows by the beach in beautiful Aruba in May of 2020. Unfortunately, like many unsuspecting couples last year, the future Bellottis were blindsided by the coronavirus pandemic. It was a devastating turn of events, and Aisling and Peter began to weigh their options: Postpone the glamorous island destination wedding? Move the ceremony to the Gulf Coast?

“We decided to take a trip to Palm Beach, Florida, in June of 2020 to lift our spirits and get away from it all,” Aisling says. “While we were there, we concluded that we did not want to push back our wedding any longer. We decided to do something small and intimate near home with our closest family and friends. Peter’s family has a house in Falmouth, Massachusetts, and we summer in the Cape, so we decided to look for a venue in that vicinity.”

Renting a property where the family could stay and host the ceremony and reception all together seemed like the best, most COVID-safe option for the couple.

They began to search for bed-and-breakfasts and vacation rentals near Cape Cod, where the cool breezes and saltwater could hopefully wash all their wedding woes away—and it did. “Once I saw the Winslow Estate in Orleans, Massachusetts, I was in love,” Aisling shares. “I reached out to the homeowner and inquired whether or not they allowed weddings on the property and, thankfully, they did! I proposed two dates to the homeowner, and she stated that the date I had chosen—September 26—had become available just fifteen minutes prior due to a cancellation. Right then, Peter and I knew it was destiny. We immediately filled out the contract and sent the deposit, and I started planning again!”

26 | JUNE 2 0 21

Forgoing a traditional wedding planner, Aisling got to work quickly, with just a few months to transform their dreamy island getaway into an equally enchanting weekend on the Cape. “I love to do party-planning things like that, and while working from home during COVID, it was much easier to manage. I used The Knot to find all of my vendors, and everything fell into place accordingly. I always tell Petey this was God’s way of repaying us for wedding number one being canceled. It certainly was stressful with COVID and the anxiety of whether or not this wedding was going to happen, or if it was going to be canceled again, but we made it, and I don’t think our wedding day could have been any more perfect.”

Left: Aisling and her sister, Siobhan, who was the maid of honor Right: Aisling’s father, Kevin, walking her down the aisle

“

ONCE I SAW the WINSLOW ESTATE in ORLEANS, MASSACHUSETTS, I WAS in LOVE.

The big day arrived with fair skies and an intimate guest list of fifty close friends and family at the classicmeets-coastal Winslow Estate. “We initially had bigger wedding parties planned, but for the downsized wedding, Peter and I decided just to have our siblings join us at the altar for the ceremony,” Aisling explains.

“There were nineteen of us staying at the estate from Thursday to Monday on the weekend of the wedding, and on September 26, we girls woke up, put on our matching robes, and started getting dolled up. The weather, the vibes, and the people involved made it a day like no other.”

Florals and catering staff began to arrive at the Winslow Estate that afternoon while Peter and Aisling celebrated and got ready with their bridesmaids and groomsmen on opposite sides of the home. The men opted for classic navy suits that matched the seaside setting, while the ladies were stunning in soft blush hues. Around 3:30 p.m., the guests were seated on the lawn overlooking the bay as the sun shone on an equally beautiful union.

Aisling shares her touching experiences from the day.

V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 27

L’amour

“P

eter and I decided not to do the first look, but I did one with my dad because I knew the pictures would be special— along with the lifelong memory—and I’m very happy I did. Once those photos were complete, I went inside with my mother, my sister (who was my maid of honor), and my mother-in-law—three of the women closest to my heart. We spent some very special time together before I walked down the aisle. My older brother’s girlfriend, Aurora Martin, gifted us with her beautiful voice to start the ceremony. She is an opera singer and opened with ‘Ave Maria.’ It was stunning. Right as my dad and I stepped out onto the grass, my tears instantly started flowing. The moment and the song were so beautiful and memorable. Paired with Aurora’s voice, Peter’s lifelong friend Brian Flynn was playing the bagpipes. My dad’s mother and father are both off-the-boat from Ireland, and when Brian offered to play for us, I knew it would truly complete the day I had envisioned. We surprised my dad with this news the night before the wedding, and he couldn’t believe it. On the day of, no one else could either. It was truly a memory I will keep forever, along with the ones that followed as we said our vows.

Happily enjoying their first year of marriage, Aisling and Peter have not taken a honeymoon yet. However, they did visit the Northwest Florida Gulf Coast to celebrate with family this spring and to spend some time aboard the beautiful Never Rest superyacht, which you’ll also find in this issue of VIE. Congratulations to the Bellottis!

SPECIAL THANKS FLOWERS: Fancy Flowers by Meredith, FlowersByFancy.com CATERING: The Casual Gourmet, TheCasualGourmet.com PHOTOGRAPHY: Mobile Video and Photography – Rich Hudson, MobileVideoandPhotography.com DJ: Cape Tunes, CapeTunes.com SIGNS, TABLE NUMBERS, AND MORE: Crossing T’s – Tori Milano, CrossingT.com Seven One Seven Designs – Emily

“Once the ceremony was over, we had a Cape Cod cocktail hour with mojitos and oysters, along with numerous other hors d’oeuvres. Next was my father-daughter dance to ‘Have I Told You Lately’ and Peter’s mother-son dance to ‘Isn’t She Lovely.’

Unfortunately, due to COVID restrictions, we could not have more dancing; but that did not stop everyone from having a great night. The maid of honor and best man speeches devoted to us both from our siblings and best friends helped seal the deal of this being the best day of our lives. My older brother also made a toast that had me in tears and meant a lot, especially because he is very quiet and soft-spoken.

All in all, it was everything I envisioned and dreamed. It reminded me of a quote attributed to Marilyn Monroe: ‘Sometimes good things fall apart so better things can fall together.’ This might not have been our initial wedding plan, but it ended up being exactly what we wanted and more!”

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Welch, @sevenoneseven_designs HAIRSTYLING AND MAKEUP: TreNoi Salon – Krissy Perrone Manzo and Jessie Bissett, TreNoiSalon.com CEREMONY VOCALS: Aurora Martin BAGPIPES: Brian Flynn JEWELER: Gigian Jewelers & Co. – Mayk Cimen, HarryGigian.com DRESS: BHLDN, BHLDN.com TENT AND EVENT RENTALS: Undercover Tent & Party, TentRentalsCapeCod.com

MR. AND MRS. SALUCCI

PHO TO GR A PH Y BY L AU R E N FOL K

30 | JUNE 2 0 21

L’amour

It was a match made in technology heaven—but we’re not talking about dating apps this time.

When Amanda Bedenbaugh and Vince Salucci met in 2013 while working for the same IT company in Jacksonville, Florida, Vince claims his first thought was, Uh oh, I’m going to be in trouble. It was a few weeks before the pair had any real interaction, but as Amanda says, “Once we did, it felt magnetic. I knew this new guy was special, and, in the beginning, I was very guarded about sharing the relationship with anyone. I wouldn’t even tell friends and family what his name was; to them, he was ‘work boy!’ Well, work boy quickly became the love of my life and best friend, and my friends and family got to learn his actual name.” After about four months of dating, the couple moved in together and even expanded their little family by adopting a chocolate Lab puppy, Moose.

Fast-forward to 2018, when a job opportunity closer to her family in Niceville, Florida, prompted Amanda and Vince to move west. “At that point, I was patiently (impatiently) waiting for Vince to propose since we had talked about marriage and starting a family,” Amanda says. “Vince is always up for an adventure, so he was instantly supportive of the move, and we came up with a plan to transition our lives to the Panhandle. In June 2018, I moved back home to start a new job and started house hunting.” Vince, who was born in Dallas but grew up in Fernandina Beach, Florida, stayed behind in Jacksonville for a couple of months to wrap up things there.

“During the four years we dated, I was very stubborn and wanted to accomplish several goals before taking the next step of marriage,” Vince says. “Amanda loved being patient! However, once I accomplished those goals, Amanda and I got engaged on her birthday in July 2018. That day, we were enjoying some time with her family. All along, I had the ring in my pocket, waiting for what felt like the right time. I didn’t have any surprise photography planned, nobody knew what was about to happen, and that’s exactly how I wanted it to be—just for us. We had all just returned from a sunset cruise, and evening storm clouds began to growl. Amanda was sitting on the porch as the rain started pouring from the sky. Well, it’s something I still can’t explain, but when you know, you know.”

Amanda recalls, “The proposal, in my mind, was never happening—we were just going to be one of those new modern couples that didn’t get married. But on my birthday weekend, during one of Vince’s many trips to see me before he moved, it finally happened. We had spent my birthday with friends and family doing one of my favorite activities—boating. Afterward, we went back to my family’s house for dinner. I was in a slight food coma after eating, so Vince and I went out on the back porch to rest in the swing and watch an evening storm roll in. As I was sitting there in a daze, watching a crazy beautiful lightning storm, I looked over to see Vince on the ground—actually on one knee, but it took me a minute to snap out of my daze and fully understand what was happening. It was perfect, just us at that moment. I fall under the ‘I can’t remember what he said but I said yes’ category—haha!”

The pair went inside to share the news with their family and friends, who teased them with “It’s about time!” all around, Vince says. Shortly after moving into their new home in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, they started wedding planning. “Vince and I are both very laid-back people, but when we’re together, it’s on a new level—almost to a fault,” Amanda laughs. “So, I primarily took over wedding planning, and Vince chimed in on his favorite part, the food.”

V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 31

L’amour

hey knew that a late-fall wedding was in order, as Florida summers are hot and hurricane season can be a genuine concern for planning events through September and October. While searching available venues, Amanda and Vince knew they also wanted one with an in-house wedding coordinator. Amanda recalls, “I had started to reach out to venues and quickly learned all that went into planning a wedding—hello, stress! Then I came across a package that The Clubs by JOE was offering for weddings at Shark’s Tooth Golf Club in Panama City Beach.

It combined almost all the vendors and items I needed into one easy list—I was instantly interested. We booked a tour of the facility with their coordinator, Madison Smiedendorf, and knew it was the right place! The Club had just been renovated after Hurricane Michael and was really looking its best. We were also able to have the entire wedding and reception in one location—for guests, there is nothing better. I am so thankful to the team at Shark’s Tooth because they helped make all the decisions easy and were truly great at their craft. As for the decor and other duties on my plate, I have to give a shout-out to my coworkers at the time for keeping me on track and helping me get our wedding to the finish line. Overall, it was a great experience.”

32 | JUNE 2 0 21

with her family, preparing for the big day she knew was sure to fly by.

A night-before bonfire on the beach welcomed about 125 of the couple’s friends and family from around the country to Panama City Beach as they prepared for the wedding day.

“I could hear the waves crashing right outside of the beach house I was staying in when I woke up, thinking, Today is the day!” Vince adds. “It was time to grab some breakfast and focus on the last task at hand before walking down the aisle: vows. Amanda and I decided to write our own, and—those who know me won’t be surprised—I waited until hours before to write it all down. It wasn’t a difficult task, but it took me about three hours to get it just right. Sharing my thoughts, feelings, jokes, and overall outlook on our relationship— past, present, and future—with everyone in attendance was nerve-racking but well worth it!”

“Vince and I stayed separated the night before, and I remember waking up super early, mainly because of excitement—but I also hadn’t written my vows,” Amanda admits. “It’s funny to look back on it, because Vince and I both unknowingly woke up that morning and wrote down our vows at the same time. They are so precious and something that I will always hold dear.” She spent the rest of the morning

In their final moments before becoming Mr. and Mrs. Salucci, Vince and Amanda shared a first look before the ceremony. “It gave me all the butterflies and calmed me down all at once,” Amanda recalls. “I was so ready to marry this guy! I was nervous about the vows because sharing something so vulnerable in front of everyone was scary, but it was one of my favorite parts of a very special day.”

PHOTOGRAPHY: Lauren Folk, Folk House Photography BRIDAL GOWN: Margaret Ellen Bridal CAKE: Mallory Archer, RELAX & Eat Cake VENUE: Shark’s Tooth Golf Club COORDINATORS: Madison Smeidendorf and Samantha Kasten OFFICIANT: Harley Willis (the bride’s uncle) DJ: DJ Powell FLORALS AND DECOR: Clay Keels, Signature Events TRANSPORTATION: Southern Comfort Services HAIRSTYLING: Jessie Bennett MAKEUP: Ariana Fernando

With Shark’s Tooth Golf Club bedecked in elegant green, white, silver, and gold, Amanda and Vince came together on the sunny afternoon of November 9, 2019. As one of the first cool days of the season, without a cloud in the sky, the weather was perfect. An arch covered in gorgeous white blossoms overlooked a manicured golf green and the forest beyond, setting the scene for a beautiful union.

Amanda’s uncle, Harley Willis, officiated the ceremony—“He nailed it,” Vince says—and the Saluccis made their way back down the aisle as husband and wife.

“The rest of the night was filled with endless joy and dancing to all the ’90s kids’ favorite jams (our DJ was amazing), and before we knew it, the night was over,” says Amanda.

“The day ended up being perfect,” says Vince. “Besides marrying Amanda, of course, one of the highlights of our wedding for me was the food! We received an overwhelming response regarding how great it was. Amanda and I both consider ourselves foodies, so the thought of everyone enjoying the part where you’re forced to sit with people and share a meal was just more icing on the cake.”

Speaking of cake—Amanda designed the gorgeous three-tier confection created

by Mallory Archer of RELAX & Eat Cake in Panama City Beach. “She met Vince’s need to have three different cake flavors with the beautiful, understated

“Amanda and I both consider ourselves foodies, so the thought of everyone enjoying the part where you’re forced to sit with people and share a meal was just more icing on the cake.”

white outside,” Amanda laughs. “She has since messaged me saying many brides request this same cake design, which is super special to us.”

Unfortunately, like many newlyweds in 2019 and 2020, the Saluccis had to put their honeymoon on hold due to the coronavirus pandemic sweeping the globe. “We had planned a two-week getaway to Europe,” says Vince. “We’ve both always wanted to visit several countries across the pond. As a third-generation Italian, going back to my roots in Italy has always been my goal, and Amanda shares the same sentiment. We had our sights set on the Amalfi coast—beautiful landscape and scenery, small coastal towns, and copious amounts of local food and culture. We didn’t want to stay in one location, so we also planned to experience some more popular areas such as Rome, Florence, and Venice. When news of the COVID outbreak reached the US, we tried to move our plans from Italy into other parts of Europe that weren’t getting hit as hard: from London to Paris to Barcelona. Unfortunately, all of our ideas were canceled by the pandemic in March 2020. We remain optimistic that when given a chance to travel abroad, we can properly celebrate our honeymoon.”

And the Saluccis have even more to celebrate this year, as they recently shared the news that they are expecting their first child in November—right around their anniversary. Congratulations, Amanda and Vince!

V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 33

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L’intermission

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Love, VIE xo V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 35

L’amour

T I M ES T WO

MR. AND MRS. WELLER

By Jo rd a n S ta g g s | Ph o to g ra p hy by S a ra h C o l e m a n

FATE CAN BE A TRICKY THING, AND ITS OUTCOME RARELY IS WHAT WE EXPECT. BUT WHEN GOD’S PLAN COMES TOGETHER IN A BEAUTIFUL UNION, IT REINFORCES THE BELIEF THAT ALL THINGS HAPPEN FOR A REASON. FOR OLIVIA LEE PIERCE AND MATTHEW THOMAS WELLER, IT SEEMED IRONIC THAT THE PAIR BOTH GREW UP ALONG THE EASTERN SHORE OF MOBILE BAY, JUST TEN MINUTES FROM EACH OTHER, BUT NEVER MET UNTIL THEY BOTH MOVED TO THE AREA NEAR DESTIN, FLORIDA, IN THEIR MID-TWENTIES.

“Our high schools were even rivals, but somehow, Matt and I never met until we both moved to the Emerald Coast in the early summer of 2017,” says Olivia, who graduated from Auburn University and moved south again to be a full-time graphic designer. “We each came to the area for new jobs. When we met, I said I was looking for someone to go to the beach and grab a beer with, and that’s what we did. It was really fun to explore the area with Matt. We instantly bonded and fell in love in our new home away from home.”

Matt earned a degree from the University of Alabama in Huntsville before his move to the beach, making the future Wellers’ colleges rivals, as well. They made it through their first NCAA football season together, and the rest fell into place quickly. After many visits back home to Daphne and Fairhope, Alabama, to meet each other’s families, many game nights with friends, other travels together, and countless beach days and brewery dates, it was clear they were ready to take the next step toward being husband and wife.

36 | JUNE 2 0 21

“After we dated for almost a year and a half, Matt took me ring shopping to pick out the oval setting that I desired,” Olivia recalls. “We went to a few local stores in the Destin area and Fairhope. Finally, after visiting eight jewelry stores (yes, eight!), we found ‘the one.’ It was the middle of December, and downtown Pensacola, Florida, was decorated for Christmas, which puts one in the most joyous spirits for shopping.

When we opened the doors of Jewelers Trade Shop, we were met with the sound of a pianist playing classical music. The atmosphere and staff were so warm and welcoming. As soon as I placed the A.Jaffe oval setting with a halo on my ring finger, the search was over! Then I just had to wait for Matt to pop the question.”

As many Gulf Coast residents and longtime visitors know, Mardis Gras is a storied tradition in Mobile, and it also presented the perfect opportunity for a romantic engagement.

V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 37

L’amour

e both decided that the spring would be a nice time to get married,” says Matt, recounting the story. “The summers are too hot in Florida, and nothing should interrupt football in the fall.

I knew that Olivia wanted a year-long engagement to have time for wedding planning, so the spring of 2019 was the perfect time to ask. One of Olivia’s favorite holidays is Mardi Gras, and we had planned to visit home for the weekend. Olivia knew that we were going to the Mystics of Time parade and ball on Saturday night, but she had no idea what I had planned for Friday night. We went to the Maids of Jubilee parade in downtown Fairhope, had a nice dinner, and then walked to get a drink. I stopped at the iconic Fairhope clock and got down on one knee.

After she accepted, she turned around to find her childhood best friend, Megan, who had been hiding to take pictures. This wasn’t the only surprise of the night. Olivia thought she would be staying at her mom’s house, but to her surprise, I arranged to have all of our things taken to a hotel room instead. When we walked into the hotel and opened the door, we found our parents, my grandfather, and Olivia’s best friend, Abby, all with Prosecco in hand and ready to celebrate.

I was so relieved that all the secrets were over! We had the best weekend surrounded by family and friends.”

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TH E S T R E S S O F TH E W E D D I N G WAS AL L BEHIND US. WE WERE The pair began planning their nuptials right away and settled on Pensacola for the location. It is ideally situated between their hometowns and their new home in Destin and a place that Matt and Olivia enjoy visiting on the weekends. “Most of our visits included a beer (or two) at Perfect Plain Brewing Co.,” Olivia shares.

“We love their ties to Pensacola’s history, the industrial aesthetic, and their delicious brews! Fortunately for us, Perfect Plain was renovating the old garage next door into an event venue, and it would be ready in time for us to have the wedding reception there. Without even seeing the final product, we immediately booked the venue, as we knew the space would be special.”

For the ceremony, Old Christ Church was always Olivia’s top pick, she says. “I love the white, clean exterior with the white picket fence. As one of the oldest surviving church buildings in Florida, this historic church building had to be a part of our story.”

Of course, planning a wedding always comes with ups and downs. For couples getting married in 2020 and 2021, those pitfalls were indeed more drastic than

J U S T B E S T FR I E N D S , S M I L I N G FRO M E A R TO E A R, R E A DY TO PA R T Y TH E N I G H T AWAY. most. The coronavirus pandemic swept the globe in early 2020, just a few months before Matt and Olivia’s wedding date of March 28. Their big plans were halted, but the resilient couple knew they didn’t want to wait any longer to become husband and wife.

“We moved our church ceremony and large celebration to a later date,” says Olivia. “After a lot of prayers and planning, we held a small private ceremony on the original wedding date, March 28, and postponed everything else for December 5. We were both so overjoyed to be married and to have our closest loved ones together for our small beach ceremony. It was very stressful—I won’t lie. There were lots of tears and phone calls. I would not have been able to get through it without my mom, Matt’s mom, and our wedding coordinator, Kelly Rhodes.”

Although they were already legally married, a big wedding celebration was still in order in late 2020, once the COVID-19 restrictions had loosened and more friends and family felt comfortable traveling.

The year 2020 threw another unexpected hurdle at the Wellers in the form of Hurricane Sally, which devastated parts of Pensacola, Mobile, and the surrounding areas in September, including putting the Pensacola Bay Bridge out of commission.

“Despite curveballs from COVID and Hurricane Sally, we were able to celebrate our union not once but twice!” Olivia assures. “I’m a traditional Southern girl; I’ve always pictured my wedding being in a church and wearing a big white dress and pearls. I was so grateful that my mom made all of that happen. In addition to wanting to wear my dream dress, I also wanted to be surrounded by my favorite people.

Many weren’t able to attend our intimate ceremony in March, so having everyone there in December meant the world to me and Matt!”

On December 5, 2020, the happy couple and their friends and family gathered at Old Christ Church in downtown Pensacola. Matt waited at the altar in a beautiful emerald-green tux with black pants and

leopard print shoes. Olivia’s stunning Justin Alexander ball gown had an open back and plunging neckline. The bridesmaids wore soft blush pink floor-length gowns, and the emerald-and-blush palette made up elements of the decor, the wedding invitation suite, and florals.

“Having these colors as the foundation really helped plan the details of our day,” Olivia says. One other must-have was the charming Five Flags Trolley that transported the wedding party from the church to Garden & Grain during the cocktail hour between the ceremony and reception. “This allowed Matt and I to have extra pictures taken around downtown Pensacola.

These shots ended up being some of my favorites! The stress of the wedding was all behind us. We were just best friends, smiling from ear to ear, ready to party the night away. For me, this was the Elle Woods ‘We did it’ moment! Although 2020 had many speed bumps, we are so lucky to have one another.”

SPECIAL THANKS PHOTOGRAPHER : Sarah Coleman COORDINATOR : Kelly Rhodes DRESS : Justin Alexander from Bliss Bridal RING: A.Jaffe from Jewelers Trade Shop

A two-week honeymoon jaunt through Thailand was put on hold for now, but Matt says, “We are hoping one day we will still be able to go to the Land of Smiles.”

TUX: The Black Tux HAIR : Brooke Miller MAKEUP: Hayley Gurney SPRAY TAN : Shelby Herron

Until then, it’s all smiles for the Wellers in sunny Destin.

Congratulations, Olivia and Matt!

EARRINGS : Stella & Dot FLOWERS : Fiore WEDDING CAKES : Bluejay’s Bakery RECEPTION : Garden & Grain at Perfect Plain

Brewing Co. CATERER : Classic City Catering VIOLINIST: Jessica Edwards TROLLEY TRANSPORTATION : Five Flags Trolley

V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 39

Your Dream Home Is Our Passssiion

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Mr. 42 | JUNE 2 0 21

W A S H I N G T O N

& Mrs.

Betts

L’amour

Photography by

JENNA KAYE FORBES

tar-crossed lovers always seem to find one another, even if it takes longer than expected. Hannah Oden and Peyton Betts grew up in the same county, only about thirty miles apart, but they didn’t meet until their senior year of high school when they attended the same church. That clandestine meeting led to budding romance, and on April 10, 2021, Hannah and Peyton were wed at the beautiful Point Washington Preserve in South Walton, Florida.

Hannah recounts the details of the big day for us here.

OUR LOVE STORY AND THE PROPOSAL Peyton is from DeFuniak Springs, Florida, and I am from Santa Rosa Beach, but we never crossed paths until meeting at church during our senior year of high school. We dated throughout college and got engaged on June 20, 2020, about seven months after graduating. Our proposal was nothing short of perfect. My birthday is June 25, so Peyton told me we were going out for an early birthday dinner. We often watch the sunset on date nights, so I thought nothing of it when Peyton took me down to Seagrove Beach before going to “dinner.” He proposed to me on the beach and secretly had our dear friend, Jenna Kaye Forbes, photograph the whole thing! I was so surprised. Afterward, Peyton took me back to my parents’ house, where both of our families were waiting for us to celebrate. We spent time with them for a while before heading out to Havana Beach Bar & Grill at The Pearl hotel in Rosemary Beach for dinner, just the two of us. It was the sweetest night, and I truly had never been happier—until our wedding day.

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L’amour

“

OUR WEDDING PLANS I loved wedding planning! There were stressful moments, but overall, I enjoyed it and had so much fun. We could not have done it without our incredible planner, Amanda Bierbaum of Soirée, who not only planned the rehearsal dinner and the wedding for us but also did all of our florals! She made the whole process a breeze.

We explored a few options before deciding on our venue, but it didn’t take long to commit to Point Washington Preserve. I knew I wanted to get married locally and loved the idea of an outdoor wedding. We knew early on that we would have an extensive guest list, so I wanted a place that could accommodate the number we expected, around 350.

The beauty of the surrounding state forest at PWP speaks for itself. I loved that the pavilion, which we originally planned to use only for the reception, was a built-in plan B for the ceremony in case of severe weather—we ended up using it! We also had around seventy-five young kids at our wedding, and I knew the Preserve would be a great venue with plenty of space for them to run wild and have fun.

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I would say my vision for the wedding was inspired by an English garden—very classic with beautiful flowers and greenery.

OUR HONEYMOON We honeymooned in Mexico at Excellence Playa Mujeres resort. I did the majority of the wedding planning solo, so I told Peyton the honeymoon was all his to plan! I was really impressed with the location he chose and everything he lined up for us. We both wanted a tropical, all-inclusive vacation where we could take the week to decompress, relax, and just be together enjoying our first days as newlyweds. We were beyond happy with our stay, and we highly recommend the resort to anyone looking for a luxurious escape.

Congratulations, Hannah and Peyton!

OUR BIG DAY Our wedding day was absolutely magical. Almost every single plan was changed the week of the ceremony due to severe thunderstorms and tornadoes. Still, it all came together beautifully, thanks to my mother, Erin Oden, and our wedding planner. Peyton and I both genuinely believe every change happened for a reason and that it turned out exactly how it was meant to be.

There wasn’t necessarily a theme to our decor, but I would say my vision for the wedding was inspired by an English garden—very classic with beautiful flowers and greenery. We had so many moments throughout the day that made it special.

Because we did a first look, Peyton and I had already seen each other before we got to the venue. So, just before the ceremony started, we took a moment, just the two of us, to say our personal vows to each other and pray together. It was so sweet to take that time together to step away and take a breath before walking down the aisle. Another favorite moment for me was my father-daughter dance, which my dad and I had choreographed and learned throughout the two weeks before the wedding. It was special and really fun to spend time together amid the pre-wedding chaos leading up to the big day!

Another special shout-out goes to artist Ruth Oneya, who did a live painting of the ceremony. I cannot thank her enough for making the drive from Birmingham to paint our wedding—she is so, so talented.

Special Thanks

P H OTO G R A P H Y: Jenna Kaye Photography

V I D E O G R A P H Y: Cameron Zane Weddings F L O R A L S A N D EV E N T P L A N N I N G : Amanda Bierbaum, Soirée DeFuniak Springs V E N U E : Point Washington Preserve R E N TA L S : Showtime Events C AT E R I N G : Ketchem’s Restaurant, Catering & Venue C A K E S : Donna Hicks, Frosted Acres Bakery (“She made my groom’s cake dream come to life with a fabulous and delicious three-tiered cinnamon roll cake!”)

D R E S S A N D V E I L : Margaret Ellen Bridal H A I R A N D M A K EU P : Jessica Gallant and Stacie Edgar, Gallant Glam BA N D : Southern City Lights L I V E A RT I S T: Ruth Oneya Illustrations V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 45

Our inaugural coffee-table book, HOME by VIE, is now available for purchase!

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Le monde

Following a recent redesign, Splendido Mare, a Belmond Hotel in Portofino, sets the standard for Italian glamour. Visit Belmond. com/portofino to learn more and book your stay.

Photo courtesy of Belmond

Le monde GOES ROUND AND ROUND

Take a step into the unknown; you never know how it might surprise you. Splendido Mare, a Belmond Hotel in Portofino, Italy, is the epitome of elegance, luxury, and adventure. Situated on the Portofino Harbor, this seaside location is nothing short of an Italian fantasy.

V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 47

Le monde

FI R E

Dancing Through

By Tori Phelps

Photography courtesy of Danielle Torley

Photo by Dianna Berggren Photography 48 | JUNE 2 0 21

I

t’s the heat she remembers most from that February night. Even at six years old, Danielle Torley knew upon waking in the predawn darkness that Michigan winters didn’t—shouldn’t—feel this hot. She was right. By daybreak, the house fire would ravage her family, claiming her mother’s life, forcing her father to fight for his own during a month-long hospital stay, and ushering in a brutal new reality for Danielle and her little sister.

Young as she was, she understood the furious blaze for what it was: a thief. It had stolen her mother, most painfully, but it had also stolen the easy peace she took for granted. The last thing she expected was that, years later, fire would return that peace to her.

“

The sound of the flame as it whooshed past my head was incredibly loud and brought me right back to my childhood. But the creative half of my brain was thinking, ‘I can’t believe it! I’m a fire dancer.

Wanderlust had grown like a weed during her childhood in a small Michigan town, prompting Danielle to take a backpacking trip through Central America with a friend one summer. Their first stop was Roatán, an island off the coast of Honduras. It was supposed to be a stopover of just a few days, but they fell in love with the island and ended up staying for three months. They quickly made friends, one of whom was a fire dancer who sparked in Danielle an immediate obsession with the beautiful art form.

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Le monde

S

he learned a few basics from her new pal and made homemade props like poi—a ball with a wick at the end of a chain—out of socks and shoelaces. It wasn’t until she returned home that she summoned the nerve to buy real props and actually light them.

She recalls being both terrified and exhilarated. “The sound of the flame as it whooshed past my head was incredibly loud and brought me right back to my childhood,” she says. “But the creative half of my brain was thinking, ‘I can’t believe it! I’m a fire dancer.’”

“

The next thing I knew we were putting together service agreements, doing choreography, getting costumes— everything just fell together.

Above and opposite bottom: Photos by Dianna Berggren Photography Opposite top and next page: Photos by Shanna Magnuson 50 | JUNE 2 0 21

Quite by accident, she had created her own kind of “exposure therapy,” wherein she learned to coexist with and even enjoy what scared her. The nightmares that had plagued her since the fire finally stopped, she believes, because her dancing allowed her to control and manipulate fire. It was no longer in charge; she was.

Therapy wasn’t necessarily at the forefront of her mind when she picked up her props, however. Spinning (Danielle’s term for the dance technique) is not only an adrenaline rush, but a unique artistic expression. A natural fire dancer who grasped the movements quickly, she soon evolved into a performer whose art accompanied her around the world.

The urge to travel had never really left her, but its siren song got louder in her early twenties. After earning an international relations degree and spending a year in Austin with AmeriCorps, she was offered two jobs within the States and one in Dubai at roughly the same time. There was really no question. Danielle threw everything she owned into storage and hopped a plane for the Middle East.

The job—working for a British security company to provide personnel for embassies and other at-risk locations—brought her into the world of proposal coordination and business development. It also allowed her to explore fire dancing with others who shared her passion, ultimately turning it into a side job. “I reached out to a group of people who had recently started fire dancing together, and we realized there was a demand for fire dancers at hotels and for events like desert safaris,” she says. “The next thing I knew we were putting together service agreements, doing choreography, getting costumes—everything just fell together.”

Because Dubai sits at the crossroads of Asia, Europe, and Africa, Danielle was able to take weekend trips to bucket-list locations such as Egypt, Jordan, and Israel, as well as traveling for her job. As is her habit, she strayed wildly from her predetermined time line, and a six-month plan turned into five years. It was only when she and her now-husband decided to plant roots back in the States that she was able to tear herself away. The two settled initially in the Washington, D.C., area and then in Destin, Florida.

Her fire dancing made the transitions too, and, as a nod to her new home on the Emerald Coast, she now performs as the Emerald Flame. But between a high-octane career as director of business development for a federal contractor and being the mother of three young children, it’s not easy to squeeze spinning into her schedule.

She manages, though. In fact, she can’t seem to stay away. Even with an impressive list of hobbies like diving (she’s a PADI Master Scuba Diver Trainer) and triathlons, she always comes back to fire dancing. It’s accessible, thanks to LED light props she can use anywhere, as well as meditative. Plus, it’s just plain fun.

Looking back, she recognizes that fire dancing has been a vehicle for growth since she first witnessed spinners completely in charge of the flames in their hands. Fire itself was never her enemy, she says, citing contained forms like bonfires as an enjoyable part of her childhood. “It was the idea of uncontrolled fire that really terrified me,” she clarifies. “Fire dancing has been a long process of learning how to transform, evolve, and embrace my view of fire.”

Safety has always been a high priority for Danielle, as it must be for every spinner. She won’t say she’s never been hurt—an accident in Dubai injured her right hand—but she’s burned her hand using the oven more often than through fire dancing, she contends. Her confidence in its safety is so great that she’s teaching her children to spin (with unlit and LED props for now).

“

When you experience a tragedy, it’s so hard,” she says. “And there’s a choice between just surviving day to day and moving forward without being hindered by your fears.

The story of a fire survivor who grows up to be a fire dancer is compelling enough that the TED Talk organization came calling last year. Danielle is a member of the Project Management Institute (PMI), an international association whose fiftieth anniversary celebration included partnering with TED Talks. Danielle later discovered that of the 1,200 PMI members who applied to present a TED Talk, she was one of only fourteen selected. Initially hesitant about whether such a personal story would be relevant to others, the preparation process illustrated that her hard-won lessons about pushing through pain were, indeed, universal. “When you experience a tragedy, it’s so hard,” she says. “And there’s a choice between just surviving day to day and moving forward without being hindered by your fears.”

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Le monde Not that fire dancing has magically erased all of the scars from that horrible night.

She remembers far too many details in vivid color—from the stuffed animal she clutched as she crawled through the smoke-filled house to the stranger who climbed atop his car to pull her and her sister from a second-story awning to safety. To this day, Danielle prefers one-story houses, has never had a fireplace (the source of her family’s deadly fire), and clears a pathway between her family’s bedrooms and an exit every night before bed, just in case they have to get out quickly.

But feeling the fear and pushing ahead anyway, a choice she continues to make daily, has helped her turn the ashes of grief into a life of meaning and happiness. Her trajectory hasn’t always been a straight line, she admits, and she cautions others in pain to expect days or weeks or months when fear and doubt may be winning. “Sometimes there is deep despair,” she says of the journey through trauma. “But there’s also real joy.”

Visit Facebook.com/EmeraldFlameDance to learn more about Emerald Flame or to book a performance for your next event.

Tori Phelps has been a journalist and writer for twenty-five years.

A longtime VIE collaborator, Tori is committed to storytelling that honors the subject matter and inspires the reader. She lives, reads, and bakes vegan biscuits with her family in Charleston, South Carolina.

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the finer side of life.

Modus Photography Expands in Grayton Beach

Western Lake White on White Landscape, taken in Grayton Beach, Florida

Photography by

Chandler Williams

since launching modus photography in 2007, Northwest Florida–based photographer Chandler Williams has traveled the globe creating dramatic scenes featuring landscapes, people, wildlife, and more. Those who visit the Mystic Porte shopping center in Grayton Beach have undoubtedly seen the Modus gallery sign and Williams’s large matte-black Sprinter van with his logo on the side.

Curious visitors should most certainly stop by the gallery. And suppose you’re interested in extra special artwork for your home or office space. In that case, Williams has something new in the works that he is particularly excited about— a recently remodeled exclusive gallery upstairs that will be home to his new Fine Art Limited Series. “The idea is to offer a unique setting for the limited-edition pieces,” he shares. “Having it upstairs from the main Modus Gallery naturally allows the viewer to have fewer outside distractions, so they can really enjoy their experience viewing the artwork.”

We visited the airy loft space to chat with Williams about his new collection and other ways Modus Photography is growing this year.

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VIE:

What made you want to delve deeper into fine-art photography?

Chandler Williams: I think, for me, the timing is the most significant part of introducing my fine-art photography. I’ve always had the deepest respect for other fine-art photographers like Clyde Butcher, Ian Ruhter, and, of course, Peter Lik. I wanted to incorporate my version of this into my gallery. The fine art aspect of my work is an accumulation of many years of experiences behind the camera, my love for nature, and the overall language of photography, which I speak fluently. My recent transition into the world of medium format film sizes will allow me to truly get a good representation of the subjects I’m shooting for large-scale fine art photography. I do want to make sure that I represent this art form in the most respectful way possible.

V IE: What are some of your favorite subjects to photograph?

CW: For the fine art series, I will have a mix of curated images that include landscapes, seascapes, and environmental awareness pieces. I’ve grown to love shooting during bad weather and rainy days. It really allows you to capture images and locations that may seem familiar but are exposed in a different atmosphere.

V IE: You’ve been exploring more with aerial photography as well. Would you like to tell us a little about that experience?

CW: I’ve been shooting and exploring aerial photography for well over six years, but before, I would

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have to build out my own drones and constantly repair them with a solder gun and patch antennas. The reality is, even with the top drones on the market, the cameras are still nowhere close to being able to capture large-scale photography without compromising print quality. The recent decision to go medium format has ignited my love for photography all over again. I think it has brought me to see things differently again, and especially while shooting out of a helicopter!

V IE: What do you think makes the Northwest Florida area such an ideal home for photographers?

CW: North Florida is an amazingly diverse and fragile ecosystem. It usually provides an amazing landscape and overall setting if you’re willing to put in the time to capture the shots you want. The reality is that I can drive two hours in any direction and have a totally different cultural and environmental opportunity to capture.

V IE: What types of framing options are available at Modus?

CW: We have formed multiple amazing relationships with some of the best frame and fine-art print companies in the country. These have allowed us to offer unique and custom frames for our clients, no matter where they are in the country.

You can find framing options on the website on ModusPhotography.com/gallery.

Right top: Cenote, taken in Mexico Right bottom: That Wanaka Tree, taken in New Zealand

V IE: We heard you are also offering photography courses; can you tell us a little about those?

CW: We are gently easing into the offering workshops.

Currently, we are offering one-on-one workshops. They are three hours and can be customizable, from learning strobes to fashion shoots, underwater photography, astrophotography, and other options. Starting in July, we will be offering three-day courses. Our standard workshops will begin in the morning and finish midafternoon. During the workshops, clients will learn various things, such as shutter speed, ISO, aperture, and exposure, to properly understand the fundamentals of the language of photography. These workshops will take place while we explore the beautiful South Walton landscape! All booking information is available at ModusPhotography.com.

V IE: Will there be opportunities for other artists to show in your new upstairs gallery?

CW: Currently, we will not host other artists in the gallery, but I hope to collaborate with select artists in the near future. The loft will be open by appointment only or through limited exhibitions. All pieces will be exclusively limited, and some will be original one-of-akind prints. By launching the fine-art limited series, I know my clients are investing in me. I want to make sure that when a collector buys a limited-edition piece, they know their image is taken with the best equipment available and printed by the best in the industry.

The fine art aspect of my work is an accumulation of many years of experiences behind the camera, my love for nature, and the overall language of photography, which I speak fluently.

Blue Horizon, taken in Inlet Beach, Florida

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My recent investment into true medium format photography and teaming up with one of the best printers in the country allows me to confidently assure the collectors that they are not only taking home a valued piece of my work, but they know they are getting the best materials and craftsmanship available.

I am really excited about this next phase in my career as an artist and photographer. I am so thankful for all of the relationships and support shown to me over the past decade by the community and clients.

Above: The Debate, taken in Destin, Florida Below left: Three’s a Crowd, taken on the Emerald Coast

Collectors take home a limited-edition piece of my work and get the best materials and craftsmanship available.

VISIT MODUSPHOTOGRAPHY.COM TO LEARN MORE.

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Below: Photographer Chandler Williams at Modus Gallery in Grayton Beach, Florida

L’intermission

We All Float On This FUNBOY pool favorite is the world’s first floating golf cart. It is perfect for two and includes a removable mesh shade and two cup holders. Visit FUNBOY. com to get yours!

Photo courtesy of FUNBOY

Kick back and relax in this adorable golf cart float by the swim accessory experts at FUNBOY. You can float it over to the pool bar, or just put it on cruise control as you sip and tan at your leisure. Either way, you’ll be rolling in style, because this float is the perfect summer ride. Who says you have to leave the golf cart on land?

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N A S H V I L L E ' S AS A DESIRE FOR BEACH LIVING TRENDS AMONG CITY DWELLERS, MANY NASHVILLIANS ARE CROSSING STATE

BE ACH BORDERS WITH THE HOPE OF FINDING SUNNIER HORIZONS ON THE GULF.

The 30A Songwriters Festival, put on each year by the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County and Russell Carter Artist Management, has brought top songwriters and stars from Nashville and around the country to the beaches of South Walton for over a decade.

Photo by Nathan Zucker 60 | JUNE 2 0 21

///

STO RY BY

SAMANTHA ACCOLA

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WITH

direct and easy access from Middle Tennessee across a seven-hour drive down I-65 or a quick, direct flight into Destin-Fort Walton Beach

or Panama City Beach, traveling has never been easier for those wanting to escape Middle America and embrace the sugar-white shores of the Emerald Coast. Having a laid-back lifestyle and fun for the whole family, the local beach town of Santa Rosa Beach hosts over seventy thousand Tennesseans every year!

Both Nashville and 30-A exude creativity and commonality. These two well-rounded, artistic ecosystems boldly celebrate people, music, nature, Southern hospitality, and entertainment.

Let’s dive into how these sister cities relate to one another and the ways they are shaping our world today.

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MUSIC Nashville is nicknamed Music City for a reason, and the thriving live music scene of Middle Tennessee often traces inspiration from the South Walton beaches and vice versa. Country stars such as Luke Bryan, Garth Brooks, Faith Hill, Thomas Rhett, and Tim McGraw reference the local community in famous radio hits, visit the beach town regularly, or even own homes there. What is so special about these artists is not just the music they produce but the heart behind it. Many of these well-known stars give back to the community and support the arts in Walton County. Last summer and again this spring, Lee Brice headlined an intimate concert to raise money and benefit the Ohana Institute’s student music program.

For locals and tourists alike, it is always fun to run into a favorite artist sitting at a coffee shop in Grayton or walking the beach in Rosemary, but the “beach mentality” isn’t to blow their cover and shoot a camera in their face; it is to simply smile and wave, understanding celebrities are on the Gulf Coast for the same reason you and I are here: to relax and enjoy the sunshine.

For a more laid-back scene, many local Nashville artists and songwriters travel down south to 30-A for writers retreats and a serene getaway from the bustle of the city. Brittney Kelley, whose husband is Brian Kelley of Florida Georgia Line, shares with VIE: “My husband Brian and I like to call 30-A ‘Nashville South’ because it really is a place where so many folks from Nashville like to come not only to vacation but also to write music. It’s a place filled with inspiration for artists of all kinds coming from Nashville.” Music is most naturally crafted when one is motivated by surroundings, whether that is the proximity of a collaborator on a song or the beauty of a landscape. Fortunately for Nashville natives, musicians can bring their friends to the beach and share in the best of both worlds!

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30-A IS A PLACE FILLED WITH

I N S P I R AT I O N FOR ARTISTS OF ALL KINDS COMING FROM NASHVILLE.

Brandi Carlile performs at 30A Songwriters Festival in 2019.

Photo by Nathan Zucker Above: Who wouldn’t be inspired by this gorgeous view of the Gulf of Mexico in Grayton Beach, Florida?

Photo courtesy of Visit South Walton

Pepsi Gulf Coast Jam brings country music to the coast each year with concerts by some of the biggest names in the industry.

Photo courtesy of Gulf Coast Jam

Music is one of the key identifiers of this southern region. The live music scene managed to flourish safely, and socially distanced storytelling continued to take center stage through a global pandemic.

With a twist on honky-tonk cover bands, beach-bar musicians bring this small town to life through carefree set lists and welcoming atmospheres that keep couples tapping their feet and singing along.

Above: Brian Kelley and Tyler Hubbard of Florida Georgia Line have both made 30-A their home away from home with their families.

Photo by Robby Klein Left: Photo courtesy of Visit South Walton

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THE LIVE MUSIC SCENE MANAGED TO ABOUND SAFELY, AND SOCIALLY DISTANCED

STO RY T E L L I N G CONTINUED TO TAKE CENTER STAGE THROUGH A GLOBAL PANDEMIC.

from Nashville and across the country to put together the 30A Songwriters Festival. Intimate listening rooms and events like this mirror Nashville songwriters’ style at places like the iconic Bluebird Cafe, where the writers behind your favorite songs are given a platform to share their stories with a public audience.

May we never take for granted the power of music and the beauty of our world.

S O U T H E R N H O S P I TA L I T Y Above: Lynyrd Skynyrd will headline Pepsi Gulf Coast Jam this year in Panama City Beach, coming up June 4–6.

Photo by Randy Miramontez Opposite: Photo courtesy of Visit South Walton 64 | JUNE 2 0 21

Following the motto of the Nashville-based female group the Highwomen, Southern culture calls for houses with a “crowded table.” Whether you’ve been visiting for years and have worn down the town’s cobblestone roads yourself or are new to the South Walton area, there is always a seat for you.

Many Tennessee residents describe Nashville as a “big small town.” Though the city is rapidly growing, its layout allows locals to live as suburban neighbors downtown. From quaint bungalows to homestyle restaurants and two-story shopping districts, Nashville balances a hard-working skyscraper mentality with community-centered comfort.

Like roots, hospitality in the South grows downward and deep. Trading the city for the beach, the Southern style of Santa Rosa offers urban dwellers the chance at a respite from hustle culture and a change of pace commonly known as “beach time.”

Be our guest and enjoy life surfside.

UP & COMING Exploding with opportunity, both Nashville and Santa Rosa Beach are capturing the attention of tourists across the nation. From popular music and culture festivals to bachelorette parties and resort wedding destinations, the two communities host an influx of people. Within the last year, experts estimate that an average of eighty-five people are moving to Nashville per day and Business Wire ranked Nashville number two for real estate investment.

These statistics prove the resilience of Music City in the middle of a pandemic and the available growth opportunities.

As the Nashville locality transforms into a mix of old and new money, many Tennessee families and young professionals call 30-A their second home. Amid the coronavirus, Santa Rosa Beach has seen immense growth as many city folks want to escape to a stressfree beach environment and soak in some much-needed “vitamin sea.” According to local real estate research, 30-A home sales since spring 2020 have doubled each month, and inventory has been cut down as houses and local properties are selling out. Surf the wave of the future and plan a trip to these two extraordinary communities as travel begins to open up again!

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SAVE OCE ANS THE

By Tori Phelps

Philippe and Ashlan Cousteau Make Waves

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Le monde

Philippe and Ashlan Cousteau are leading the charge to help protect the world’s oceans through education and preservation. Philippe is the grandson of the legendary French explorer, innovator, and conservationist Jacques Cousteau.

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Opposite: Philippe and Ashlan star in the Travel Channel series Caribbean Pirate Treasure in which they explore underwater off coastlines in the Caribbean and the Gulf of Mexico, seeking artifacts and lost riches.

Photo by Shane Reynolds Below: The Cousteaus also recently published Oceans for Dummies alongside Jeff Kraynak.

The book is an everyman’s guide to the oceans, how they function, and how humans can work to protect them.

Photo courtesy of Philippe and Ashlan Cousteau

you look, you’d undoubtedly find saltwater, rather than blood, flowing through the veins of the Cousteau family. The late Jacques Cousteau practically invented oceanic exploration and conservation, and every generation since has taken up that baton. Today, his grandson, Philippe, and Philippe’s wife, Ashlan, bring fresh ideas to a family business that includes engaging the world in a fight that’s literally life or death.

Born into a family still mourning the passing of his father, Philippe Sr., six months earlier in a plane crash, Philippe was raised in France and the US by his American mother, Jan. Though the elder Philippe was gone, Jan had spent thirteen years on explorations with her husband and gave Philippe and his sister, Alexandra, the ocean-centric life they had always planned.

Jacques, who lived into Philippe’s late teens, was part of that upbringing, and his grandson remembers him as a man of great humor, generosity, and kindness.

Never pushed into conservation, Philippe came to the decision on his own at age sixteen when he joined Dr. Eugenie Clark, a pioneering oceanographer and friend of both his father and grandfather, on an expedition to Papua New Guinea. While researching and filming from their little dive boat, what Philippe experienced—things like trading with the indigenous peoples and hiking remote areas that likely hadn’t been seen by outsiders in centuries—thoroughly captured his teenage imagination. “I felt like Indiana Jones,” he laughs.

“Why would I want to do anything else?”

Rather than marine science, he studied history at St. Andrews in Scotland, reasoning that if he was going to change the world, he first needed to know a bit about it. Besides, onthe-job training had worked well for Cousteaus in the past.

Jacques Cousteau, despite common misperception, wasn’t a formally trained scientist. He was a captain in the French navy, a filmmaker, an author, an explorer, a researcher, and a problem solver. A free diver who wanted to spend more time underwater, Jacques famously coinvented the Aqua-Lung with French engineer Émile Gagnan in the mid-1940s, an invention whose technology is still used in modern scuba gear.

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Perhaps most importantly to Philippe, Jacques was a storyteller. And that was the role Philippe hoped to fill.

He was already a well-known ocean advocate when he met Ashlan Gorse at an event for which Philippe was speaking. A native of North Carolina, Ashlan had studied journalism at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. After years of hard work, she had landed her dream job as an entertainment reporter for the E! network.

But seven years in, a desire for more purpose in her life collided with the new man in her life. “I spent my days talking about the Kardashians and Justin Bieber, and then I would come home and have these amazing conversations with Philippe about ocean politics,” she says. “I started to think about how I could use my background in pop culture to appeal to audiences, specifically in terms of ocean conservation.”

POP CULTURE AND SCIENCE MAY SOUND LIKE ODD BEDFELLOWS UNTIL YOU CONSIDER THE UNDERSEA

WORLD OF JACQUES COUSTEAU, AMONG THE MOST AWARDED, MOST POPULAR TELEVISION PROGRAMS IN HISTORY—AND ALSO A REALITY SHOW.

Pop culture and science may sound like odd bedfellows until you consider The Undersea World of Jacques Cousteau, among the most awarded, most popular television programs in history—and also a reality show, Ashlan maintains. “Sure, the audience learned about walruses and fish and amazing places, but it was about following this family around the world and seeing them interact,” she says.

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TOGETHER, THE CALIFORNIA-BASED COUPLE EMBARKED ON A JOURNEY TO MAKE THE MESSAGE OF CONSERVATION COOL, FUN, EXCITING, AND ACCESSIBLE.

Together, the California-based couple embarked on a journey to make the message of conservation cool, fun, exciting, and accessible. They had a good start, thanks to EarthEcho International, an organization Philippe founded right out of college.

Its mission is to build a global youth movement to restore and protect the ocean and planet, offering resources to educators all over the world that empower kids to become ocean advocates in their communities.

The results have been staggering. Children as young as gradeschoolers are helping to pass laws, making towns plastic-free, and starting businesses around conservation. Philippe’s instinct to focus on youth was a smart one. “It’s amazing what kids can do in their families, with their friends—all the way up to world leaders,” marvels Ashlan. “The power they have and the way they’re using it is really inspiring.” Philippe adds, “That optimism drives us forward, frankly. Seeing them do these extraordinary things, it gives you hope.”

Hope can be in short supply sometimes. Even with the Cousteau family’s work over the last half century, many people still don’t understand that destroying oceans will destroy humanity. Oceans control everything from weather to national security, provide over 50 percent of the available oxygen, and deliver every drop of precipitation that falls on land, Ashlan explains. Far more than just providing seafood, oceans are ultimately responsible for all of our food. And there are likely other connections of

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Philippe and Ashlan Cousteau search the depths for buried artifacts in Travel Channel’s Caribbean Pirate Treasure.

Photo by Shane Reynolds Opposite: Photo courtesy of Philippe and Ashlan Cousteau

which scientists aren’t yet aware. “We know more about the surface of the moon than we do about the bottom of our oceans,” she says. “People are excited about exploring Mars, but I’m much more excited about exploring what’s on our planet.”

That was the premise behind their Travel Channel series, Caribbean Pirate Treasure, wherein Ashlan and Philippe brought attention to issues like plastic pollution and invasive species through undersea exploration and, yes, treasure hunts. The show, which ran for three seasons, was scrubbed when Ashlan became pregnant with their daughter, Vivienne, as expectant mothers can’t scuba dive. However, fans will be thrilled to know that the Cousteaus plan to pursue TV options again after their second child is born later this summer.

In the more immediate future, they’ll mark World Oceans Day on June 8 with COVID-appropriate festivities, such as smaller EarthEcho youth events. The Cousteaus also will tie in the launch of Philippe’s new children’s book, Ocean Champs, as well as the recent publication of their joint effort, Oceans for Dummies.

Part of the famed For Dummies series, the book fills a gap between simple children’s books about the ocean and academic sources. There really was nothing in between, Ashlan says of their decision to write an easily accessible, enjoyable guide.

It’s needed now more than ever, they believe. Even as environmental issues become more important in our collective minds, the oceans are not. In a recent survey, global leaders listed climate change near the top of their concerns, while ocean V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 71

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IN A RECENT SURVEY, GLOBAL LEADERS LISTED CLIMATE CHANGE NEAR THE TOP OF THEIR CONCERNS, WHILE OCEAN CONSERVATION FELL SOMEWHERE NEAR THE BOTTOM, PHILIPPE SAYS. “THERE’S STILL A LACK OF AWARENESS ABOUT THEIR IMPORTANCE,” HE STATES. “WE NEED TO ELEVATE THE OCEAN TO THE CENTER OF THE CONSERVATION CONVERSATION; WE CAN’T SOLVE ANYTHING UNTIL WE DO.” conservation fell somewhere near the bottom, Philippe says. “There’s still a lack of awareness about their importance,” he states. “We need to elevate the ocean to the center of the conservation conversation; we can’t solve anything until we do.”

erence for and commitment to the oceanic world, it’s safe to say that their activism— and exploration—will live on. “My father said that adventure is where you lead a full life,” says Philippe. “And this is the best adventure you could ever have.”

At the individual level, they say that saving the oceans can start with something as easy as reducing consumption of single-use plastics (like water bottles and straws), 8 million metric tons of which enter the oceans every year. The political candidates we support also have a massive impact, they say, though they hope environmental issues will again become nonpartisan, as they were when Republican president Richard Nixon started the EPA and implemented everything from the Clean Water Act to the Endangered Species Act.

TO LEARN MORE, VISIT PHILIPPECOUSTEAU.COM OR FOLLOW PHILIPPE AND

While the need for advocacy is still strong, the Cousteau family’s commitment is just as strong. And with a new generation of Cousteaus being raised with the same rev-

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ASHLAN ON INSTAGRAM @PCOUSTEAU AND @ASHLANCOUSTEAU.

Tori Phelps has been a journalist and writer for twenty-five years.

A longtime VIE collaborator, Tori is committed to storytelling that honors the subject matter and inspires the reader. She lives, reads, and bakes vegan biscuits with her family in Charleston, South Carolina.

Petite pause You might know Apalachicola, Florida, as the oyster capital of the world. If not, at least you do now! This small town— with neighboring Port Saint Joe and Mexico Beach along the state’s “Forgotten Coast”— boasts gorgeous Gulf and bay views, a charming historic downtown, and a thriving art and culture scene.

Learn more at FloridasForgottenCoast.com.

Photo by Lauren Athalia

Down by the Bay

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Art HOUSE DRINK The

of the

By Suza n ne Po l la k

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It’s lovely to have house specialties, whether decor, drinks, or dinners; these are all areas that show personality and flair. We express ourselves with design—either through our own tastes or by relying on interior designers—and in the way we organize our daily domestic schedules. Food and drink are other creative ways to make living in your home uniquely yours. Do you rely on the same menu and wines/cocktails/beverages day in and day out? This probably gives you and your family comfort. Or you might introduce the world and adventure by creating diverse culinary or liquid treats for the creatures who live under your roof and those who visit too.

I

am a fan of having a house drink and a go-to menu for a while, until they’re fully mastered at every step: cooking, mixing, and presentation. Then when the excitement has evaporated or the season has changed, the time comes to move to new terrains. This steady progression of building culinary and cocktail house signatures adds to your skills through the decades. During the learning period, the practice provides stability, predictability, and comfort to those you feed and water, something guests look forward to when invited. Then, to keep you and yours on your toes, choose new treats.

Lifestyle expert Suzanne Pollak recommends having a go-to cocktail recipe for dinner parties and unexpected guests.

Some standout ideas include a French 75 (right), an old fashioned with charred orange (left), a peach Bellini, or a kir royale. Changing up your house drink monthly or seasonally will keep you and your guests both entertained and refreshed.

In that vein, I propose settling upon a house cocktail for a while. Or call it a “pool cocktail” if you have a pool. I did have a precocious and adorable five-anda-half-year-old over for a birthday dinner recently, and he asked where my pool was (a perfectly acceptable question since everywhere he has lived, he has had an opulent pool in his garden). I had to explain there was no pool at my little house, but there was a bathtub.

try something people might not have tried before.

Leave complicated cocktails to mixologists. Your home is not a bar. You must be able to make repeat versions—meaning the first drink, possibly a second, and if the occasion arises for a third, you will be able to walk up a flight of stairs and mix another. Our first suggestion in a trio of joyful sparklers could knock one flat if not drunk responsibly. After all, it is named after a portable, fast-firing, accurate field gun that became an icon of victory in World War I.

French 75 No less an authority than novelist Alec Waugh (older brother of Evelyn Waugh) called the French 75 the most powerful drink in the world. The liquor combination has such a kick, it might feel like being shelled with the French 75 mm field gun used in World War I. The French did not surrender in WWI. In fact, they lost nearly a whole generation in trench warfare. If you are interested in WWI from a French perspective, read Poilu: The World War I Notebooks of Corporal Louis Barthas, Barrelmaker 1914–1918. Barthas was a thirty-five-yearold barrel maker conscripted to fight the Germans in 1914; he spent the next four years in constant combat, wherever the French army fought its fiercest battles. It’s a gripping firsthand account of WWI by a French corporal who endured it all.

I have a particular interest in war because I was in one as a young girl (the Biafran War in late 1960s Nigeria) and endured another as a mother (two of my three sons were Marines deployed to the war in Afghanistan in 2010). One of them told me that in Afghanistan, the French MREs (“meals ready to eat”) had little bottles of wine included! An American soldier in Afghanistan even had an MRE dated from the Vietnam War.

The most interesting cocktail for the poolside has some effervescence that relates to the sparkling water filling the pool. Champagne, or any sparkling wine, adds pure magic to a cocktail. You might call it bubbles; I might say dryness. But the wisest of us all know Champagne sprinkles fairy dust of magic.

There are a few things to think about when choosing a house cocktail. We do not want a “normal” drink available anywhere and everywhere. Instead, V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 75

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“

The kir royale is the first cousin of the kir, made with dry white wine and crème de cassis.

T

he French 75 is a wickedly delicious concoction worthy enough to water the throats of pool guests. Its name and recipe were developed in the 1920s, but it recalled drinks from an earlier era. The combination of gin and Champagne was a favorite of Queen Victoria’s son Edward, the Prince of Wales, and Kalākaua, the king of Hawaii. When Charles Dickens visited Boston in 1867, he entertained writers in his room at the Parker House Hotel with Champagne cups and gin. The French 75 has been featured in several movies, including Casablanca (1942) and two John Wayne films, and in the series Mr Selfridge, set in London during the 1910s and ’20s.

The French 75 is made with a dry gin, lemon juice, and sugar. Try Empress 1908 gin if you can get it.

Your drink will turn a violent violet and look gorgeous next to your pool.

Right: The kir royale combines Champagne and crème de cassis topped with fresh raspberries or a lemon twist.

Opposite: For a perfect Southern-inspired libation or special morning cocktail, look no further than the peach Bellini.

Next page: The tequila sunrise is a classic choice for summer poolside cocktails or Taco Tuesday!

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Recipe · 1/2 ounce fresh lemon juice · 1 teaspoon sugar · 2 ounces gin or cognac · Champagne or Prosecco · Lemon twist (Make the garnish before the drink.

We don’t want that effervescence to wait!)

Add the lemon juice and sugar to a shaker and stir to combine. Add the gin and fill with ice. Shake, and strain into a collins glass or Champagne flute filled with cracked ice. Slowly top with Champagne and garnish.

Kir Royale The French 75 requires four ingredients. Our next bubbly beauty is even simpler with just two: sparkling wine and crème de cassis. It’s simple yet complex and more than the sum of its parts. The kir royale is the queen of celebratory drinks, for a birthday or cocktail party thrown in someone’s honor.

The kir royale is the first cousin of the kir, made with dry white wine and crème de cassis. The kir is a nineteenth-century drink trendy after WWII. The kir royale sets itself apart with the addition of Champagne. Aside from being delicious, the best thing about the kir royale might be how easy it is to make. A half ounce of crème de cassis infuses the Champagne, creating a jeweled-colored cocktail with a hint of sweet berries.

Recipe · 1/2 ounce crème de cassis · Dry Champagne (or other sparkling wine) · A long lemon twist for garnish Pour the cassis into the flute first, then top with Champagne and garnish.

Bellini What is more opulent than breakfast or brunch by the pool (especially if you aren’t in charge of removing falling leaves on the water’s surface)? A morning-after drink is necessary when the night before was long or if the times call for a luxurious beginning to the day. The Bellini is a delightfully delicate, pale pink concoction created in 1948 at Harry’s Bar in Venice. It’s usually made with Prosecco, but why not use Champagne if you have it? The Bellini is another two-ingredient wonder, the second ingredient being peach purée.

The original uses white peaches, but in the South, we don’t care what they do in Venice. We use the yellow peaches grown locally—simply out of this world when in season. Serve alongside more peaches wrapped in thinly sliced ham, the best available. Breakfast food and drink, done! Coffee optional.

Recipe · One part peach purée · Two parts Champagne or Prosecco Fill the bottom of the flute with peach purée and top it with Champagne.

V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 77

Le monde Champagne flutes work well for a kir royale, so you can watch the bubbles rise.

Bellinis also do best in a flute, but a collins glass will work.

“

The chicest and most confident hosts find their favorite object and recipe and do it over and over again.

A Final Note on Proper Glassware: The French 75 changed with the fashion. It was first served in a coupe, then the collins glass in the late 1920s, and finally a champagne flute in the 1980s.

Today, bartenders are back to using the collins glass because its shape is reminiscent of a cartridge shell.

Do not feel you need to have a collection of glasses. You do not, especially poolside!

You are not a bar or a restaurant; you are running a home. The chicest and most confident hosts find their favorite object (drinking glass) and recipe (cocktail) and do it over and over again. It becomes their signature. I use my collection of antique silver cups indoors, and if I had a pool, I would use a Bodum Pavina double-walled insulated glass for every drink, from coffee in the morning to cocktails at night.

Bottoms up!

Suzanne Pollak, a mentor and lecturer in the fields of home, hearth, and hospitality, is the founder and dean of the Charleston Academy of Domestic Pursuits. She is the coauthor of Entertaining for Dummies, The Pat Conroy Cookbook, and The Charleston Academy of Domestic Pursuits: A Handbook of Etiquette with Recipes. Born into a diplomatic family, Pollak was raised in Africa, where her parents hosted multiple parties every week. Her South Carolina homes have been featured in the Wall Street Journal Mansion section and Town & Country magazine.

Visit CharlestonAcademy.com or contact her at Suzanne@CharlestonAcademy.com to learn more.

SUN ABOVE. SAND BELOW. PEACE WITHIN.

A LY S B E A C H . C O M

A L U X U R Y N E W U R B A N I ST C O M M U N I T Y O N T H E E A ST E N D O F H I G H WAY 3 0 A

8 5 0 . 213 . 5 5 0 0

Sand, Sea,

&

Civil Rights TH E PA S T A N D FU T U R E O F V IRG IN I A K E Y B E ACH

By Emme Martin | Photography courtesy of Historic Virginia Key Beach Park

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Le monde

As humans, we all share God-given rights to live our lives.

These include the rights to breathe, relax, smile, play, and, one of our personal favorites, swim in the ocean. If you have the good fortune to call the beach your home or to visit one of America’s many beautiful coastlines, you understand the immense pleasure that comes from a day spent soaking up the sun and frolicking in the waves. The beach brings a sense of peace and joy to all who are lucky enough to spend their days this way.

Historic Virginia Key Beach Park just off the coast of Miami Beach, Florida Right: Virginia Key Beach was the only Miami beach where Black community members were allowed for swimming and recreation from 1945 through the end of segregation.

Photo courtesy of Historic Virginia Key Beach Park

ounded in 1896 and built predominantly by people of color, the City of Miami failed to extend this fundamental right of sun and sand to the Black community for many years. By 1920, as the city was growing, Miami prohibited people of color from enjoying miles of beaches, for only the white population was allowed. The 2020 Oscar-nominated film One Night in Miami is set in 1964 when Miami was still segregated. The film documents iconic Black figures Jim Brown, Sam Cooke, Cassius Clay (Muhammad Ali), and Malcolm X before and after Clay’s legendary victory in the boxing World Heavyweight Championship. Some of the injustices Black people faced during these times are highlighted in the movie; these include isolated hotels, limited social areas, and Virginia Key Beach being the only safe haven where Black families could gather, relax, and play by the ocean.

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Le monde

The 2020 award-winning film One Night in Miami explores race relations and segregation in Miami and throughout America, recounting an evening near Virginia Key Beach shared by Muhammad Ali, Malcolm X, Sam Cooke, and Jim Brown.

Photo by Patti Perret/ Amazon Studios

arly on in the city’s history, in an attempt to provide beaches for the Black community, D. A. Dorsey, a Black millionaire, purchased what is now known as Fisher Island, tucked between Miami Beach and Virginia Key. Increasing property taxes required him to sell the property, and once again, the Black community was left without a beach. In 1945, determined to set justice in motion, seven courageous Black people, led by Lawson Thomas (who would later become the first Black judge in the South since Reconstruction), splashed into the water at all-white Haulover Beach. This protest was one of the first acts of civil disobedience in the name of civil rights for people of color. In response to the protest and out of fear of a bad reputation, the city made some unofficial exceptions exclusive to the Black population. One of these places was Virginia Key Beach, also known as Bears Cut. Virginia Key Beach is the city’s northernmost natural barrier island in Biscayne Bay. On August 1, 1945, it officially became “Virginia Key Beach, a Dade County Park for the exclusive use of Negroes.” Today, visitors can access the island by car using the Rickenbacker Causeway, but back when the park opened, this did not exist. The island was only accessible by boat, so fishermen would pick up locals who wanted to spend the day on the beach. If visitors missed the last boat out, they had to sleep on the island. Virginia Key Beach became a cherished getaway for Miami’s citizens of color, a social gathering place, and even a sacred site for religious purposes. Many new Caribbean, South American, and Cuban immigrants found Virginia Key Beach the only beach they could visit or even preferred.

When a hurricane swept across the island in the late 1940s, it was wiped clean of all picnic areas and enterprises. This cloud of devastation ended up with a silver lining, as it led to the building of now-historic establishments such as carousels, mini trains, concession stands, and bathhouses. These recreational amenities were the only ones of their kind for the area’s Black community and are still available for enjoyment today.

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As segregation began to diminish over the years, many beachgoers started to go to Haulover Beach, Crandon Park, and South Beach to recreate. The county turned Virginia Key Beach over to the City of Miami in 1980, but due to the high maintenance and operations costs, the park was closed in 1982. The park has since been made available for daily rental, and it also serves as a facility for large entertainment events put on by the city and for training law enforcement.

In June 1999, when Miami was back in a boom, the area started to get more recognition from private developers looking to build on the beach park. In response, a diverse group of citizens, many of whom were environmentalists, marched to stop this development. These efforts established the group as the Virginia Key Beach Park Civil

Rights Task Force. A year later, the Miami City Commission unanimously agreed to set up the Virginia Key Beach Park Trust to oversee the historic park’s development.

Private citizens came together to serve as board members who created a plan to restore the park’s historical elements and build a museum to honor the park’s history for the public. The trust works diligently to provide the community with an escape for family events, community meetings, corporate events, and an immaculate beachfront for swimming and water activities.

In August 2002, the park was placed on the National Register of Historic Places.

According to their website, “The National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.”

Virginia Key Beach Park could not be more deserving of this recognition. It also serves as a reminder of the significance of the historical property that we can never forget. By February 2008, the beach reopened to the public. Many of the historic amenities and new venues enjoyed by the community throughout the park’s history are available for all to enjoy. Today, ecosystem restoration projects, interpretive signage, and an interpretive/cultural center’s construction remain in the works.

They may not have realized it at the time, but those seven individuals who ran into the water at Haulover Park were paving the way for widespread inclusivity in the City of Miami. It is a beautiful yet heartbreaking story of a community whose fundamental right to enjoy themselves on the beach was nonexistent. They rose above the restrictions placed upon them by others and claimed their freedom right on the shores of Virginia Key Beach. This park is full of coastal dune lakes, walking trails, and a mile of beaches, plus new playgrounds where families can visit and revel in the magnificence of the ocean. It is a type of beauty that can never overshadow those who once sought peace there when everywhere else was out of reach.

V I S I T V I R G I N I A K E Y B E AC H PA R K . N E T TO L E A R N M O R E O R TO P L A N A V I S I T.

Opposite bottom: Many families and people of color enjoying Virginia Key Beach during its early segregated days Below left: Visitors celebrating the Virginia Key Beach Park Trust’s seventy-fifth anniversary in 2020 Photos courtesy of Historic Virginia Key Beach Park Below: Academy Awards 2020 nominee Leslie Odom Jr. starring as Sam Cooke in One Night in Miami Photo by Patti Perret/ Amazon Studios

Virginia Key Beach is and always has been a diamond in the rough. Its history symbolizes a message of hope.

V I RG I N I A K E Y B E AC H B EC A M E A CHERISHED G E TAWAY FO R M I A M I ’ S C I T IZ E N S O F CO LO R , A S O C I A L GAT H E R I N G P L AC E , A N D E V E N A S AC R E D S IT E FO R R E L I G I O U S P U R P O S E S .

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Le monde

The

C OA STAL Conne c ti on Corcoran Is Wherever You Are

B Y B O B B Y PA R K E R A N D C O R E Y B I R G E R

With the pull of the sparkling emerald-green waters, sugar-white sand, and luxurious lifestyle that the Northwest Florida area offers, destinations like Destin, Panama City Beach, and the resort-like coastal communities that make up Scenic Highway 30-A are as popular as ever. hat was once a collection of quaint little fishing villages has now become a dream destination scattered with renowned restaurants, shopping, and world-class events. Many people may not be able to articulate precisely why they are drawn to the Emerald Coast; they simply know this is where they belong. While some attribute it to the properties of the sugar-white quartz sand that balance and revitalize the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual planes, others believe it is the relationships they build in their adopted communities and the locals on the Emerald Coast.

With the changing landscape of our world over the last year, we have seen more people than ever before drawn to our shores in hopes of calling it home.

Leveraging creative messaging and a robust network of real estate professionals, Corcoran Reverie, a luxury brokerage and affiliate of the New York–based Corcoran Group, set out a little over a year ago to elevate the real estate experience along the beaches of Northwest Florida. Combined with its directive and 84 | JUNE 2 0 21

a national real estate boom amidst the pandemic, there was a visible influx of full-time homeowners and savvy investors. Corcoran Reverie broker and owner Hilary Farnum-Fasth noticed something else, though. “I began to recognize that, as wildly popular as our area was, there were several of my coastal clients that began discussing opportunities beyond the sugary sands of the Emerald Coast,” she says. “It wasn’t that our beaches aren’t amazing; it was that they wanted to have the option to experience other beaches and areas as well.” This meant they were considering a second, third, or in some cases, even a fourth luxury home. For Hilary, this would mean an opportunity to leverage her most powerful resource of all, her relationships within the Corcoran network.

Just as many people are drawn to an area because of relationships that are built, one thing that the leadership of Corcoran Reverie set out to establish is their commitment to build solid relationships and to be a people-first brokerage. It’s never been about the property that is being sold or bought but rather the relationships built between a client, the agent, and, ultimately, the lifestyle that comes along with the property itself. Corcoran Reverie agents understand and love people—they are agents who can sense and appreciate the needs and desires of their clients, and this mind-set flows throughout the Corcoran brand no matter what city the client may be searching in. While each affiliate of Corcoran is a localized, independent brokerage, all of the affiliates stay connected, providing an established international network.

Through intentional connectivity, clients can rest assured that they are always in good hands every time they are with a Corcoran agent, whether it is a Corcoran Reverie agent in Northwest Florida or an agent in the Hamptons. The culture and values that Corcoran is built upon are the same no matter where you go. This network created among the Corcoran affiliates and their agents is not found in many real estate groups. It contributes to the success of the Corcoran agents and the loyalty of the Corcoran clients.

For so many people, it is a partnership that blossoms into a lifelong relationship.

“Finding the right agent is crucial for any buyer or seller,” Hilary explains. “For so many people, it is a partnership that blossoms into a lifelong relationship.” By establishing trust and loyalty from the beginning, brokers like Farnum-Fasth are poised to extend the relationship beyond their local brokerage to those across the Corcoran brand. She goes on to say, “By having such a strong referral network, clients know exactly what to expect when they meet a new agent in a new location as they search for their next dream beach home.” When it comes to buying a luxury home or even selling a home, the value of a referral network such as this is priceless and can only be found with a brand like Corcoran.

Whether you’re headed to the other side of town or the other side of the world, there’s a Corcoran affiliate waiting to help turn the reverie of finding the perfect dream beach home a reality—not only locally in Northwest Florida but from sea to shining sea.

Corcoran Reverie broker/owner Hilary Farnum-Fasth

Visit CorcoranReverie.com to learn more or find your way home to one of their properties.

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C’est la vie

SHORELINE VIBES

We all know what it’s like. It’s the middle of summer: your skin is tan and your hair is lighter, you’re getting ready to go out to dinner, and it’s time to throw on a great seaside ensemble. Look no further for inspiration, because we’ve curated a list of our favorite pieces perfect for those warm summer nights you never want to end. Enjoy our beach girl’s style guide to staying cool with effortlessness and elegance this season.

1

Soak It In

La’Mariette Yvonne One-Piece $175 – La-Mariette.com 86 | JUNE 2 0 21

2

Riviera Reads

Olympia Le-Tan St Tropez Embroidered Appliquéd Canvas Clutch $1,400 – NET-A-PORTER.com

Lady in Red

3

PatBO Cutout Satin Jersey and Crochet-Knit Maxi Dress $750 – NET-A-PORTER.com

4

Exquisite Espadrilles

Gucci Pilar Logo-Embellished Quilted-Leather Wedge Espadrilles $750 – NET-A-PORTER.com

5

Healthy Glow

Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen, SPF 40 $35 – NET-A-PORTER.com

Just Rosy

6

Chloé Butterfly Metal and Acetate Sunglasses $495 – MatchesFashion.com

Shaggy Chic

8

Loewe + Paula’s Ibiza Slit LeatherTrimmed Fringed Raffia Tote $1,100 – NET-A-PORTER.com 7

It’s a Pearl Thing

Jil Sander Pearl and GoldDipped Hoop Earrings $490 – MatchesFashion.com

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C’est la vie

Yes Way, Rosé

9

Float Away Lie-On Rosé Bottle Float $60 – SunnyLife.com

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Cool for 10 the Summer

Ivanhoe Duffle 24 Large Cooler Bag $175 – Corkcicle.com

11

Just Flow with It

Camilla Crystal-Embellished FloralPrint Silk Crepe de Chine Maxi Dress $850 – NET-A-PORTER.com

The Eyes Have It

12

Begum Khan Scarab Nazar 24kt Gold-Plated Clip Earrings $1,100 – MatchesFashion.com

13

Playful in Pom-Poms

Aquazzura Pompom-Embellished Woven Raffia Mules $850 – NET-A-PORTER.com

15 14

Purrfect Pair

Bottega Veneta Cat-Eye Tortoiseshell-Acetate Sunglasses $400 – MatchesFashion.com

Throwing Shade

Beach Umbrella $348 – SerenaandLily.com

V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 89

BOOK CLUB THE READERS CORNER

The National Library of Latvia, located in Riga Photo by Grisha Bruev

Situated on the Baltic Sea at the mouth of the River Daugava, the Latvian capital of Riga is a true architectural gem. The National Library of Latvia, located in the city, was designed by Gunnar Birkerts and is also called the Castle of Light. The impressive height of the structure represents the height of wisdom, a perfect metaphor for this cultural time capsule that was inspired by a Latvian myth known as the Glass Mountain. The design evokes the legend as it sits on Riga’s skyline as a beacon of knowledge and hope.

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R E F L E C T I O N S

O N

S E A S I D E

SEQUEL CHRONICLES GROWTH IN THE NEW URBANISM BEACH TOWN

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I

M U S T

qualify my credentials for reviewing this 848-page volume on Seaside, Reflections on Seaside, seven years after I reviewed Visions of Seaside, its 608-page predecessor. As a native of South Asia and a scholar of non-Western cities, I have never been and will never be a card-carrying disciple of the New Urbanism movement. Yet, as a principal at one of New Urbanism’s founding firms, my exposure to its deeper underpinnings has been second to none. I recognize New Urbanism’s limitations from a global standpoint but continue to admire and learn from its accomplishments in North America and Europe.

r e v i e w b y v i n aya k b h a r n e

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photography by jack gardner

The Readers Corner

Above: Seven new washrooms lie within the Post Office Plaza; “These little temples celebrate an important ritual which unites all humanity every day in the same occupation,” says Léon Krier.

Left: The semicircular amphitheater at the far end of the Lyceum in Seaside, Florida

Seaside is one such accomplishment, and undoubtedly, the most mature of them in the North American context. Not because it is one of the oldest exemplars of traditional neighborhood development in the country, but because its evolution over four decades has made it a lot more than an iconic place. Seaside today is a repository of evolving town-planning ideas, a tangible testament of successes, shortcomings, trials, and triumphs, that are here for all of us to see and learn from. This is what this book is about, and its 132 immensely readable and richly illustrated essays—ranging from topics that go from xeriscape to codes and retail incubation to mobility studies—make this amply clear.

The volume has an expansive four-part structure: “Muses” opens up with twenty-two reflections by individuals who have known this place closely. Two pieces stood out for me. Robert A. M. Stern’s essay contextualizes Seaside within the state of urbanism that framed its creation. It describes the early critiques to modernist planning by Vincent Scully, Charles Moore, and others, then highlights Léon Krier’s important influence on this project, and eventually positions Seaside as the seed of a new V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 93

The Readers Corner way of understanding town making for the future.

Andres Duany’s essay offers a sweeping history of New Urbanism’s maturation from the Seaside days, with, among other things, a particularly witty and telling diagram of eight ducklings following their mother— representing the Congress for the New Urbanism’s numerous “offspring,” such as the Form-Based Codes Institute and the Institute for Traditional Architecture.

The book’s second section, “Ideas,” presents twentythree insightful opinion pieces about Seaside’s design and its promise and impact. Rick Hall recalls the challenges behind digesting Seaside’s initial progressive town-wide objective of returning to traditional walkability—something many of us take for granted today. Michael Watkins clarifies the evolving logic behind Seaside’s Code and follows with another piece the crucial role of the Town Architect. Steve Mouzon argues why Seaside “embodies Original Green principles as well as any place built in our time.” And Michael Dolan reveals how the design of “the Porch” in numerous variations has succeeded in rooting this “brand-new Florida resort town” to the climate and vernacular of its region.

The third section, “Influences”—in my opinion, the book’s most interesting section—highlights Seaside’s impact on urbanism with eighteen essays. Mark Schnell describes how Seaside has changed Highway 30-A (and beyond) in profound ways, including its architecture. Alexander Gorlin recalls the numerous incidents that led to the design of his iconic modern townhouse at Seaside. Ray Gindroz describes how the market success of Seaside helped him convince clients, municipal officials, and developers about the importance of mixed-income neighborhoods during the consequential HOPE VI program. Other essays accompanied by beautiful drawings describe Seaside’s direct influence on the creation of new towns and neighborhoods such as Hampstead, Seabrook, Beall Hill, and New Town at St. Charles.

The thirty-nine-essay fourth section, “New and Future Projects,” offers a not-so-sneak peek into Seaside’s current condition and the one to come. From Scott Merrill’s Opus Building and Léon Krier’s tower to the relocated Post Office Building and the completion of the Lyceum Colonnade, this richly illustrated section has a lot to teach us about the design of contextually appropriate buildings, and equally so about that of 94 | JUNE 2 0 21

the public spaces between them. There are also some revealing pieces on designs for gardens and open spaces such as the Jaque Robertson Park, the Gardens of the Forking Paths, the Chapel Memorial Gardens, the Seaside Piazzetta, and two examples I was particularly taken by—the design of the two beach access points that connect the town to the water.

Bookended by five forceful introductory essays, including “A Brief History of Seaside” by the book’s

creator, and two concluding ones, one from Robert Davis, Seaside’s visionary developer, this volume, like its predecessor Visions of Seaside, is a must-read for every thinking urbanist—whether you are developer or architect, traditionalist or modernist, and whether or not you like Seaside. Taken together, these two volumes underscore why Seaside, for all the opinions we have about it, is a place we absolutely need to know about. While the daily life it nurtures clearly does not make it a literal model for numerous

Above left: The Bud & Alley’s beach access stairway Above and far right: Quincy Plaza serves as a threshold and foyer between the Gateway Building arch and the Lyceum, while the Lyceum lawn and colonnade are perfect for recreation.

Right: The relocated Post Office Building now sits in the northeast corner of Central Square.

T H I S V O L U M E I S A L S O A M U S T- R E A D F O R E V E R Y T H I N K I N G U R B A N I S T— W H E T H E R Y O U A R E D E V E L O P E R O R A R C H I T E C T, T R A D I T I O N A L I S T O R M O D E R N I S T, A N D W H E T H E R O R N O T Y O U L I K E S E A S I D E .

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The Readers Corner less-affluent places in North America and beyond, the basic principles it espouses and embodies in physical form, and the processes and methods that have created them are reassuringly worth learning from.

As a final note, I wish to highlight the volume’s creator, Dhiru Thadani, whose interest and “love affair” with Seaside started almost four decades ago. This volume, as a sequel to his earlier massive one, is testimony to his multifaceted relationship with this place—as a historian, a chronicler, a designer of some of Seaside’s buildings, and, most significantly, a keen observer and interpreter of its evolution. It takes patience to understand urbanism and time to digest its numerous facets. I want to commend Thadani’s effort, taking both these volumes together, as nothing short of a magnum opus that will remain invaluable to us all for decades to come. When I had reviewed Visions of Seaside, I had casually called it “The Complete Seaside.” With this volume, Thadani has shown me why I was wrong, and why there is so much more to discover, excavate, and learn from the Seaside phenomenon. For this correction alone, I am grateful.

THE ARCHITECTURE AND URBAN DESIGN OF THE ILLUSTRATED PROJECTS WERE DESIGNED BY THADANI ARCHITECTS + URBANISTS.

Vinayak Bharne is the principal and director of design at Moule & Polyzoides, Architects & Urbanists (MPArchitects.com) and a faculty of urbanism at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles.

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This lantern-like tower adorns the public washroom that terminates Seaside Avenue.

Petite pause

Salt Sky and

Drone photography has given people yet another reason to brag about their favorite scenic spots, like the beaches on the Gulf Coast of Florida. This shot by Lauren Athalia of our hometown’s emerald waters contrasting perfectly against the white sand proves our point!

Head to VisitSouthWalton. com to learn more about the beaches of 30-A. Photo by Lauren Athalia V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 97

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Voyager

La Réserve à la Plage in Ramatuelle, France, is the perfect summer destination.

Visit LaReserve-Plage.com to book your stay.

Photo courtesy of La Réserve à la Plage

Voyager

SEE THE WORLD

Famous for its exclusive private beach clubs and gorgeous waters, Ramatuelle is a summer vision brought to life. La Réserve à la Plage, located in the southeastern region of France, brings visitors true elegance with its all-inclusive luxury resort. The atmosphere exudes the ideal vibes for chic summer days spent with friends and family, enjoying life and laughing as the boats sail by on the Balearic Sea.

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Voyager

a fondness for

SAND DUNES story by nicholas s . racheotes images courtesy of cape cod chamber of commerce 100 | JUNE 2 0 21

AND SALTY AIR Boating and sailing are popular pastimes on the Cape.

Photo by Ben Nugent Opposite: Sunlight reflecting on the dunes off of Cape Cod V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 101

Voyager

IN

1957, the singing rage, miss patti page, recorded “Old Cape Cod.” It reached number three on the charts. Evoking winding roads, lobster stew, ocean views, the ringing of church bells on a Sunday morning, and the moonlight on Cape Cod Bay, this number will probably be heard at some point during your stay on the silicon sandbar. It is bound to set your mind wandering over this magical appendage protruding from the Massachusetts coastline.

To set the record straight, since the seventeen-point-four-mile-long canal was completed in 1940, Cape Cod has been an island connected to the mainland by two bridges. Don’t mention this to those who are Cape Codders by birth—you’ll be greeted by a knowing smile and the firm observation that human intervention

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Keyes Memorial Beach is just one of several laid-back sandy beaches around Hyannis Port, Cape Cod, and the surrounding areas.

does not an island make. From this perspective, the geography of Massachusetts consists of “on Cape” and “off Cape.” The residents comprise Cape Codders and washashores (pronounced without the “r”). Rest assured, visitors are warmly welcomed.

The French explorer Samuel de Champlain was probably the earliest washashore. He made voyages in 1605 and 1606 to map the coast and establish a settlement but found that the indigenous population was not interested in developing a tourist industry. That is far from true these days.

After sixty-six days at sea, the Mayflower also missed its chance to land on the Hudson River and ended

with the Pilgrims spending about a month and a half in Provincetown. It was nowhere near the exciting destination this burg at the tip of Cape Cod would become.

Instead, they took themselves off to Plymouth.

They landed on Christmas Day in 1620 and began constructing the buildings that would constitute their settlement, the Plymouth Plantation. On your way to the Cape, this is a must-see.

Despite its many golf courses, cul-de-sac-punctuated housing developments, and crowded village centers, the Cape’s natural beauty endures to stunning effect.

You can witness it by riding the many miles of the bike trail, bird-watching at the Audubon sanctuary in Wellfleet, or combing the forty miles of the National Seashore beaches from Eastham to Provincetown as Henry David Thoreau did. While watching the variegated waves kiss the dunes and listening to the pebbles sing as each breaker recedes, you can test your stamina against what Henry David exerted in 1849, five years before taking residence on Walden Pond, and your powers of description against what he set down in his book Cape Cod. The inspirational power of the Cape can also be found in the award-

winning poetry of Mary Oliver and in Henry Beston’s The Outermost House: A Year of Life on the Great Beach of Cape Cod. Ultimately, the Cape’s full- and parttime residents are at pains to stave off the threats to the purity of her ponds, the integrity of her beaches, and the ecology of her wetlands.

There are so many beaches to mention that you should research for parking fees and other relevant details to find the right one for your visit. The “warm water side” faces the Nantucket Sound and the “cold water side” edges Cape Cod Bay. At low tide, the bayside is ideal for young children because you can walk for the length of football fields without having the water go above your knees.

While beaching it, if good conversation is your fancy, you need only pose the universal question, “Werdjeat?” which translates as “Where did you eat?”

Failing this, you can always say something about the Red Sox or Patriots to a casually met stranger, and hours will fly by. Be sure to secure your belongings against the spank of the prevailing west wind, which regulates the temperature in the afternoon, and against the seagulls whose hunger for exposed comestibles knows no bounds.

Above: The Blue Beetle boutique on Main Street in Nantucket is just one of many unique shopping destinations.

Photo by Benjamin Rascoe Above left: Many Nantucket hotels, such as the White Elephant Inn, lend bikes to their guests, enabling them to discover the island at their own pace.

Photo by Carolyne Parent

Many of the harbors feature charters available for deep-sea fishing. There are numerous jetties from which surf casters can try their luck. If freshwater angling is your forte, be warned: unless you are a blood relative to whom a local apostle of Izaak Walton owes money, you’ll get no reliable advice as to where the take is best, so be willing to explore.

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are sponsored by various churches. The oyster, cranberry, and scallop festivals mark September across the Cape. Farmers’ markets highlight craft specialties, gourmet ice cream shops, chocolate, and coffee spots.

The annual Provincetown Portuguese Festival is also a gem. While in Provincetown, take supper outside and enjoy the foot traffic on Commercial Street. There may well be no kinder or more welcoming spot on earth that allows you to be the self you’ve chosen to be.

If the art and photography galleries haven’t fully satisfied your desire to experience the finer things in life, there is music galore. From the buskers on Main Street to the Cape Cod Chamber Music Festival, the weekly performances of town bands, the Cape Cod Symphony’s concerts by the sea, the vocal gymnastics of various a cappella groups, and the free Sunday concerts in village churches, your ear cravings will be easily satisfied.

While on the subject of good sounds, may I recommend ditching your playlist and jumping on FM noncommercial, volunteer radio during your stay?

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may well be no kinder or more welcoming spot on earth that allows you to be the self you’ve chosen to be.

Besides the numerous golf courses for hitters of every level, from the duffer to the pro, there is Cape League baseball. It’s a world of fast-paced games, wooden bats, engaged fans, and ten teams populated with future stars, two of whom recently were inducted at Cooperstown. There are water parks, miniature golf courses, go-cart tracks, kayaks and canoes for rent, and art galleries and museums to visit. The Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution’s Ocean Science Discovery Center, the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History in Brewster, and the Whaling Museum (appropriately located on Nantucket Island) are among the foremost. The internet and local tourist centers crackle with opportunities for fun and profit, fair weather or foul.

If dining at various star-rated establishments is a must for you before watching the moonlight on Cape Cod Bay, the opportunities are abundant and opulent for virtually every type of cuisine, ambience, and featured entertainment. My preferences run to Ruggie’s on Main Street, the Harwich breakfast spot patronized by the locals and staffed by a grill maestro who can do things with eggs and home fries that make even the sun shine on a cloudy day. Your order will be delivered by smiling servers who put you directly on a first-name basis. Of course, you may find your bliss (and healthier diet) elsewhere.

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On WOMR, you will be treated to the widest variety of offerings any radio junkie could imagine, and on WMVY, the intelligent rockers from Martha’s Vineyard have their own well-informed way of pleasing.

Great theater, from the classic to the ultramodern, is available at about twenty-five venues (with many beginning to reopen and others planning to as soon as possible), including the Harwich Junior Theatre, the Cape Rep Theatre in Brewster, the Harbor Stage Company in Wellfleet, and the renowned Cape Playhouse in Dennis. Independent film festivals occur annually in Provincetown and Woods Hole.

(Permit me to stop here for fear of becoming encyclopedic.) My advice is that, in the same way you might hunt the perfect fried clam, the ideal stuffed quahog, or the platonic form of lobster bisque, you should fire up your favorite search engine to fulfill your entertainment needs or visit CapeCodChamber.org for official tourism information.

The time has come to take a breath on a Sunday evening. As sunset distributes purple shadows over our deck, the robins are calling to one another.

They seem to say, “Here I am. Where are you?”

I’m thinking of the westbound traffic on Route 6A (recently named an official National Scenic Byway).

The weekenders have squeezed the last hour from another perfect beach day, and the kids are bathed and nestled snugly in their car seats. The Bourne and Sagamore Bridges are within sight and will catapult our heroes into their off-Cape lives.

I’m imagining couples catching one another’s glance as the road threads below them and softly singing, so as not to disturb their precious cargo, “You’re sure to fall in love with old Cape Cod.” They have, and you will too.

TO START PLANNING YOUR TRIP, VISIT CAPECODCHAMBER.ORG.

Above: You can’t go wrong with a cruise around the islands and coastlines of Martha’s Vineyard, Cape Cod, Nantucket, and Hyannis Port.

Photo by Ben Nugent

Nick Racheotes is a product of Boston public schools, Brandeis University, and Boston College, from which he holds a PhD in history. Since he retired from teaching at Framingham State University, Nick and his wife, Pat, divide their time between Boston, Cape Cod, and the rest of the Western world.

Opposite: Walking through the charming streets of Falmouth is a pleasure year-round.

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S EA b EAn S

A BREAKTHROUGH IN HYDROPONIC FARMING

An d

by Kelsey Ogletree // Photography courtesy of Heron Farms

Charleston’s Heron Farms is the world’s first hydroponic farm using ocean water to grow food.

orn and raised in Charleston, South Carolina, Sam Norton practically grew up on the beach. “I was in the ocean every week,” he recalls. That same salty water where he made so many fond memories would one day lead to a career for the young innovator—and begin to have a greater impact on his coastal hometown than he ever imagined.

Norton, now twenty-seven years old, attends graduate school at the College of Charleston, working toward a master of science degree in environmental and sustainability studies. The focus of his senior capstone is a humble little plant called Salicornia, commonly known as sea beans. “I was researching how companies were growing it for biofuels using salt water, and I ended up thinking we should grow it for food instead,” Norton says.

The house-made ricotta at Sorghum & Salt restaurant in Charleston, South Carolina, is a fresh, delicious appetizer topped with sea beans from Heron Farms.

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hat seed of an idea grew into a vision for opening a warehouse farm to raise sea beans indoors.

Norton launched Heron Farms in spring 2020, early on in the coronavirus pandemic. “That’s the worst time to try anything, but it was not something we planned on,” he says. After winning a startup competition the previous fall, Heron Farms had the support of a large hydroponic company that enabled Norton to use its shipping containers to grow the beans. The operation soon outgrew the containers and moved to a warehouse farm in downtown Charleston, where the team now raises thousands of sea bean plants on wire racks in large insulated rooms. The temperature is kept at 72 degrees, and the space is brightly lit for the majority of the day. Thanks to these growing conditions, the sea beans thrive year-round and are ready to harvest about every seven weeks.

If you’ve never heard of sea beans, they’re pretty spectacular, as they grow and thrive in saltwater. Part of a salt-tolerant plant species called halophytes, they also go by “sea pickle,” “Gatorade grass,” and “salt daddies” and resemble translucent asparagus.

They’ve been eaten by humans as far back as historical records go on several continents, Norton says, yet many people have never heard of them.

Sea beans found growing in salt marshes in the wild are technically edible, though they can be unpalatable due to over-saltiness, says Norton. That’s why,

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I was researching how companies were growing it for biofuels using salt water, and I ended up thinking we should grow it for food instead. at Heron Farms, they regulate the salinity of the water in which the sea beans grow to help control the saltiness of the final product. Beyond being good to eat, sea beans serve a greater purpose, acting as a “marsh Band-Aid,” Norton shares. By taking in salt water, the plant itself helps reduce the salinity of the sea’s soil as it grows, enabling the growth of a perennial seagrass called spartina native to the US Atlantic Coast.

What’s it like to eat a sea bean? You can try them for yourself, as Heron Farms pivoted last year from selling bundles of sea beans for local restaurants to shipping one-ounce packages to consumers throughout the country. Norton describes the taste and texture as similar to baby spinach seasoned with a pinch of salt, with a crunch like that of a spinach stem.

“If you haven’t been to the beach in two years, you can eat something that tastes like you’re jumping into the ocean—we think that’s why people keep buying us inland,” says Norton, noting that they’ve seen an uptick in orders from noncoastal consumers, particularly in the Northeast. Eating sea beans can give you a true taste of a destination from afar, similar to an oyster—two of a small number of foods that contain seawater.

Sea beans have health benefits, too. The saltiness you taste contains micronutrients and trace elements from the seawater, and sea beans are a good source of plant-based omega-3s, calcium, and vitamin B2.

A single serving supplies more fiber than an apple or a banana.

Despite having built a business around these humble plants, Norton says it’s not really about the sea beans at all; it’s about how to utilize seawater to feed an expected global population of ten billion by 2050.

If 97 percent of the world’s water is saline, we need to learn how to use it appropriately for agriculture, he asserts. That’s why for every pound or unit of sea beans they sell, Heron Farms replants one square foot of salt marsh along the Charleston coastline, which is degraded by the dredging process each spring. “When we wake up tomorrow, there will be less usable water, more people, and less arable land,” says Norton. “We’ll put ourselves in a good spot if we can learn to use more seawater.”

CHEFS SPEAK When Shamil Velazquez, executive chef at sustainable seafood-focused Delaney Oyster House, first heard about sea beans, he knew he wanted to

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incorporate them on the menu at the downtown Charleston restaurant. “We originally thought we would forage them, but then we found Sam on Instagram,” he explains. Once Velazquez and his team tried the sample Norton brought over, they were sold. “His product was better than what we were able to forage or from any of the other companies we tried, plus we liked his story. We felt like it was a win-win to support someone trying to build his business.”

Kombu poached lobster with coconut yogurt, pepper mash, lime, and sea beans Beausoleil oysters with calamansi mignonette, pickled baby ginger, and sea beans (below left)

For Velazquez, the appeal of sea beans is their texture and salinity, which adds crunch and a taste of the ocean to dishes at Delaney Oyster House. He typically uses them in raw menu items as an edible garnish. “They’re always so good, just bright and green the way they are,” he says. “We don’t want to muddle the flavor.”

Jacques Larson, the executive chef at Wild Olive on Johns Island and Obstinate Daughter on Sullivan’s Island, learned of Heron Farms through his wife, Carrie, who got to know Norton through Lowcountry Local First, a nonprofit championing local businesses.

She was one of the first people in Charleston to tour Norton’s saltwater farm and was excited about his vision long before sea beans hit the market.

Larson, who calls what Norton is doing “truly visionary,” appreciates that he delivers a superior product and can now supply restaurants year-round with a previously seasonal food source. “It gives the

South Carolina snapper ceviche with green apple, celery root, fennel pollen, and sea beans (below) Photos courtesy of The Neighborhood Dining Group

They’re always so good, just bright and green the way they are.

We don’t want to muddle the flavor.

Opposite: Heron Farms founder/owner Sam Norton Bottom right: Saltwater marshes on Bull Island Photo courtesy of DiscoverSouthCarolina.com

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Roasted beets with turnip, anchovy, feta crema, and sea beans Photo by Frank Arevalo

Charleston restaurant community another local product to embrace, promote, and utilize on our menus,” he adds.

The sustainability aspect of Heron Farms also hits home for Larson. “It is so refreshing for a business to work this sort of idealism into its model,” he says. “It makes both restaurants and guests feel better about supporting such a progressive cause.”

On the plate, Larson’s a firm believer in appreciating the sea bean in its raw, briny form. He enjoys adding sea beans to dishes at Obstinate Daughter, including oysters on the half shell and crudo. Larson and his wife also use them in seasonal salads at home. “The beans, though small, have added immense flavor and texture to many leafy lunchtime meals we have shared,” he adds.

To learn more or to order your Charleston sea beans from Heron Farms, visit HeronFarms.com.

Kelsey Ogletree is a freelance journalist covering travel and wellness for national publications, including the Wall Street Journal, AARP, Shape, and Condé Nast Traveler. She’s also the founder of KO Copy, providing resources and workshops to empower publicists and freelance writers to work smarter and better together.

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L’intermission

Swimsuit Season Jesse is wearing the Mauve Sparkle Cabana Top and High Rise Bikini, and Janice is wearing the Textured Deep V One-Piece. Visit OpheliaSwimwear.com to shop online, or visit their Northwest Florida stores in Seaside, Grand Boulevard Town Center, and Seacrest Beach for more selections.

Photo by Jayda Rust

Cute swimsuits and best girlfriends are on our list of summer essentials!

Luckily, Ophelia Swimwear has stylish swimwear down to an art form, carrying brands that embrace and enhance the wearer’s natural beauty. These bathing suits are unique and fabulous, just like each woman wearing one.

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Blue Skies Ahead

Photography by ROMONA ROBBINS

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ith moderate winds and a forecast calling for rain, the Never Rest superyacht set out for a leisurely three-hour tour on the Choctawhatchee Bay in Northwest Florida.

Members of the VIE magazine team, models Aisling Ryan and Emme Martin, and a small group of friends and family embarked from the Baytowne Marina in Sandestin for a celebratory bridal shoot on the gorgeous eighty-four-foot Maiora yacht.

Its sleek hull cut through the choppy water like butter while Captain Steve Hoyt expertly navigated toward Crab Island. The famed Destin, Florida, tourism spot is known for its clear turquoise water and views of the Destin Bridge, East Pass, and the Gulf of Mexico beyond. As Captain Steve and his first mate, Elizabeth Stowe, welcomed their passengers with nothing less than the warmest hospitality, their sunny dispositions seemed to beam toward the sky. By the time the photo shoot began, bright rays had peeked through the gray blanket of clouds that had threatened to hang around all day. Aisling looked every bit the stunning blushing bride that she had when she married Peter Bellotti last September in Cape Cod. Honorary bridesmaid and fellow model Emme Martin exuded stylish resort vacation vibes for our inaugural Beach Towns Issue cover shoot.

Many thanks to Never Rest owner Quin Flowers for the use of his beautiful watercraft and to isidro dunbar Modern Interiors owner/creative director Todd Reeves for making the arrangements. Bon voyage!

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ALL

ABOARD the Never Rest SuperYacht

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Let the Compass Be Your Guide On Emme: Diamond Lola Necklace and Betty Gold Lariat Necklace by Jade Trau Compass Necklace and Infinity Hoops by L.A. Stein All jewelry courtesy of The Jewel in Grand Boulevard – ShopTheJewel.com Bikini top by Monce, courtesy of Ophelia Swimwear – OpheliaSwimwear.com 114 | JUNE 2 0 21

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From This Moment On On Aisling: Bridal gown by BHLDN – BHLDN.com Earrings by Dina Mackney, courtesy of The Jewel in Grand Boulevard – ShopTheJewel.com Engagement ring by Gigian Jewelers & Co. – HarryGigian.com 116 | JUNE 2 0 21

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Meet the Never Rest You can sail away on the Never Rest too, because this gorgeous 2015 Maiora 84 Motor Yacht is for sale through Galati Yacht Sales, listed at $3,195,000. This Italian beauty is equipped with luxury finishes and furnishings throughout, four staterooms, five heads, crew’s quarters, 84-foot fiberglass hull, 150 hrs CAT engines, full galley plus wet bar and wine cooler, laundry, and so much more. Is it time to make your dreams come true?

Visit GalatiYachts.com and search “Never Rest” to find out.

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Come Sail Away with Me On Emme: Compass Necklace by L.A. Stein Aquamarine Necklace and Apatite Multi Neck necklace by Dina Mackney Bikini by Luli Fama, courtesy of Ophelia Swimwear – OpheliaSwimwear.com On Aisling: Crochet shorts and top by BHLDN – BHLDN.com All jewelry courtesy of The Jewel in Grand Boulevard – ShopTheJewel.com V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 119

The little town that made a big difference...

Celebrating

40 Years

seasidefl.com

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The Colony is one of Palm Beach’s most colorful and beautiful hotels.

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F lo ri da' s

Palm Beaches

The Golden Age of Travel is Back

Shine

By Lisa Marie and Gerald Burwell Photography courtesy of Discover The Palm Beaches

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here is an age-old saying about how first impressions can last a lifetime, and taking a drive along stunning South Ocean Boulevard overlooking the Atlantic Ocean has the makings for just such an experience. The scenic highway is part of State Road A1A—possibly the most well-known of Florida’s state roads. The byway stretches the entire length of the state’s eastern seaboard from Amelia Island, just north of Jacksonville and not far from the Georgia border, south to Key West, connecting coastal barrier islands like a strand of pearls. Nestled at the north end of the lushest of Florida’s barrier islands, one will find a sophisticated resort town that is steeped in history and bears an air of unhurried elegance—Palm Beach.

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“

Standing proudly at twenty-five feet tall, with a clockface on each of its four sides, the coquina stucco Palm Beach Clock Tower, designed by Mark Marsh, has become an iconic landmark on Worth since it arrived in 2010.

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ined with a succession of gorgeous multimillion-dollar estates and abuzz with a continuous procession of uber-luxury supercars, South Ocean Boulevard is appropriately known as “Billionaires Row.” And, speaking of excess, one quickly notices that there is no shortage of tropical vegetation.

This is attributed not to human ingenuity but the simple fact that Palm Beach marks the easternmost edge of Florida’s peninsula and therefore is located furthest into the Atlantic’s warm Gulf Stream. Whether a property of modest ambitions or, well, Trump’s Mar-a-Lago, perfectly manicured landscapes here are impressive works of art in their own right.

The Birth of the Florida Beach Resort Florida is known the world over as a winter tourist vacation destination, resulting in considerable prosperity and growth for more than a few cities throughout the state over the years. Still, it is not commonly known that Palm Beach is considered the first true Florida beach resort town, coming to life at the turn of the twentieth century. Although Palm Beach is credited as the brainchild of New York–native oil baron Henry Flagler, others have been credited for doing their share toward making the town successful. Architect Addison Mizner, who visited Palm Beach in the 1920s, ultimately played a key role. His iconic Spanish Colonial architectural style became wildly popular with the affluent socialites and continues to be a strong influence in South Florida today.

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Clockwise from left: Ralph Lauren and other luxury stores line Palm Beach’s Worth Avenue.

Neiman Marcus on Worth Avenue Susan E. Riley boutique on Via Amore The Worth Avenue Clock Tower Worth Avenue Association historian and tour guide Rick Rose Spanish and Mediterranean architectural influences on Worth Avenue

The Center of Attention There is so much to say about the beauty and style of Palm Beach, but a logical starting point would be the extraordinary shopping and dining—experiences that are not likely to leave you wanting. Welcome to the chic and sophisticated world of Palm Beach’s Worth Avenue. Standing proudly at twenty-five feet tall, with a clockface on each of its four sides, the coquina stucco Palm Beach Clock Tower, designed by Mark Marsh, has become an iconic landmark on Worth since it arrived in 2010. Prominently positioned at the avenue’s beach entrance, it is a prelude to the A-list designer boutiques such as Chanel, Tiffany & Co, Gucci, Ralph Lauren, Hermes, Valentino, Louis Vuitton, Lily Pulitzer, and more lining the boulevard and the accompanying eateries that make for a delightful outing.

For those who may be looking for more, there is another dimension to Worth Avenue beyond beautiful storefronts of luxury goods and charming restaurants featuring world-class cuisine. To dig deeper, look no further than an intriguing walking tour with Worth Avenue Association historian Rick Rose. As the author of Palm Beach: The Essential Guide to America’s Legacy Resort Town, Rose possesses a remarkable knowledge of Palm Beach’s rich and colorful past. We met up with

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the effervescent former international hotelier, who was sporting quintessential Palm Beach–chic attire of a plaid linen jacket, velvet loafers, and a hat, amid the charming fountained courtyard of Via Amore tucked just off the heart of Worth Avenue. “This quaint courtyard was formerly known as Via Gucci,” says Rose. Pointing to a set of second-floor windows overlooking the courtyard, he adds, “That is where Gucci operated a design studio in the early ’60s.” Rose shared that Gucci chose Palm Beach for its first US store located outside of New York City. And, immediately beneath the former studio is the first boutique storefront that launched the famed Daniella Ortiz luxury handbag brand. The seventy-five-minute Worth Avenue Walking Tour navigates along the avenue and through the meandering side courtyards, all the while Rose unveils Palm Beach’s storied past. He is adept at capturing imaginations through a historical cocktail of anecdotal facts mixed with a twist of gossip, all as if they had happened yesterday.

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Top: Escada women’s boutique on Worth Avenue Middle: Quintessential Palm Beach architecture on Worth Avenue with an arched courtyard entrance to the left Bottom: The courtyard gateway to the historic home of architect Addison Mizner. Can you spot the current owner’s service pig, Mona Lisa?

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he tour route makes its way past the quietly well-known Everglades Club.

Designed by Addison Mizner, it was originally commissioned and built in 1918 by Paris Singer, heir to the sewing machine family, as a convalescent hospital for wounded soldiers returning from the Great War. But with the war having ended within a few months of its completion, it was repurposed into the members-only private club that it is today. The Everglades Club is widely considered to be the biggest success of Mizner’s career.

Above: The Flagler Kenan Pavilion at the Henry Morrison Flagler Museum, home to Flagler’s private railcar and these charming bicycle coaches that transported members of high society to and fro

Catty-corner across the street is Mizner’s former residence and offices. As it turns out, Mizner was not only an influencer of architecture but also one of fashion and culture—and in a rather significant way.

His home is legendary in Palm Beach as the stage for many afternoon cocktail parties where the heads of French and Italian fashion houses would present

never-seen-before styles from Europe to celebrities and other members of high society. Entertainment was commonly provided by luminaries such as Irving Berlin and George Gershwin. While on our walk, we were fortunate enough to get a glance at Mona Lisa—the resident pet pig and service animal of the current homeowner—peacefully slumbering on her bed in the foyer. If you happen to take this tour, please keep in mind that though the walkways and avenues are publicly accessible, it is important to respect the homeowners’ privacy.

Under a bougainvillea-covered archway off Via Mizner is the former location of an orange juice shop, which ultimately became the genesis of the eponymous Lilly Pulitzer clothing brand. Lillian McKim, an heir of Standard Oil and a Palm Beach native, was married to publishing heir Herbert “Peter” Pulitzer, who also happened to own citrus groves. Continuing in the footsteps of her entrepreneurial legacy, McKim founded Lilly Pulitzer. Interestingly enough, the fashion label was not her intended purpose; it came about by happenstance through her ingenuity to design pleasing patterns that would effectively conceal the inevitable staining of juice shop staff uniforms. The designs were so well done that women patrons took note and urged McKim to produce a clothing line for the everywoman. As they say, the rest is history. Palm Beach remains home to Lilly Pulitzer’s flagship store.

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If You Build It, They Will Come Following the Civil War, Henry Flagler cofounded the Standard Oil Company in Ohio with John D. Rockefeller, the richest man in America at the time.

Flagler traveled to Florida at the advice of his doctor and is credited with conceiving the vision and master plan of Palm Beach and, ultimately, Miami Beach.

To attract Northern tourists, he then built luxury European-style hotels, including The Breakers, which retains its legendary status today as the unrivaled oceanfront resort of Palm Beach. Because there was no existing mode of transportation to bring the throngs of tourists to his resorts, Flagler built a railroad that continued south all the way to Key West.

“

To attract Northern tourists, he then built luxury European-style hotels, including The Breakers, which retains its legendary status today as the unrivaled oceanfront resort of Palm Beach.

When completed in 1902, Flagler’s Palm Beach home known as Whitehall was proclaimed by the New York Herald as “more wonderful than any palace in Europe, grander and more magnificent than any other private dwelling in the world.” Once called the “Taj Mahal of North America,” today this eighteen-bedroom architectural gem is a National Historic Landmark and is open to the public as the Flagler Museum. If you’ve ever wondered how the rich and famous lived, you should visit Florida homes like these that are now open to the public.

The Breakers hotel Whitehall, the historic home of Henry Morrison Flagler, now houses a cultural museum.

Opposite right: Guests of the Villa Collection at The Colony enjoy full hotel amenities plus butler service, a beach buggy program, around-town transportation, and access to the exclusive villa pool.

Opposite left: AERIN Villa Jasmine is one of seven individually decorated villa apartments at The Colony, featuring decor from the AERIN collection, woven rattan

by Soane, furniture by the Lacquer Company, and Colefax and Fowler fabrics.

A Colonial Revival That Will Revive You Since acquiring the property five years ago, Sarah and Andrew Wetenhall have reimagined the experience at The Colony, creating something truly magical.

With its signature pink exterior, the fanciful English Colonial Caribbean hotel stands out and lives up to its iconic and historic reputation in Palm Beach.

Within the entry doors of the porte-cochere is a room of impeccable design and style that immediately captures the eye of the beholder. The lobby, affectionately referred to as “the living room,” is lined with custom wallpaper that is exclusive to the Colony Hotel and features indigenous Florida flora and fauna. Owner Sarah Wetenhall explains the inspiration behind the design as one from a mid-century postcard featuring The Colony’s original lobby which was painted with a mural titled The Early Days in Palm Beach. She worked hand in hand with de Gournay to create this unique love letter to The Colony and Palm Beach. “It was our mission to embody the whimsy and humor of our beloved hotel, brought to life through the meticulous artistry of de Gournay,” Wetenhall says. The pattern is a departure from past de Gournay projects in that it reflects whimsy and humor, elements essential to The Colony.

The lobby at The Colony, affectionately known as “the living room,” with custom wallpaper by de Gournay

In addition to the newly decorated Living Room, The Colony also partnered with Aerin Lauder to design and curate the AERIN Villa Jasmine, a 2,100-squarefoot Palm Beach villa originally built in 1929. AERIN and The Colony collaborated on the extensive renovation and redesign using Lauder’s home collections and pieces she personally selected. “The Colony hotel is an iconic destination that allows you to experience the magic of Palm Beach, and we hope that the AERIN Villa Jasmine becomes the perfect escape, especially during the unique times that we are living today,” says Lauder. The villa offers a direct private entrance, two generous master bedrooms, two full-size bathrooms, a kitchen, and living and dining areas opening to the fountained villa courtyard. Original historical details include old-growth pecky cypress doors and a cast stone fireplace. The interior speaks to the natural beauty of Palm Beach embellished with a touch of romance.

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nother key amenity of the hotel is Swifty’s Restaurant and Pub. In addition to its traditional dining room, the newly renovated restaurant has expanded poolside dining with lunch and dinner service. The cuisine is some of the finest but the atmosphere is a relaxed resort chic.

“Bilbo” Le Bilboquet’s long-awaited opening on Worth Avenue brought an exceptional addition to the iconic Palm Beach scene that is already synonymous with old-world glamour and new-world sophistication.

Designer David Lucido leaned on the Art Deco aesthetic that runs through the city and remixed them with French designs, including the quintessential bistro chairs by Maison Gatti and a nickel-topped bar imported from Paris. The restaurant’s layout has sinuous curves that hug the tables together and accordion-style doors that open all the way up to create a seamless indooroutdoor flow. The courtyard is filled with lush plants and tucked-away grottos for intimate conversations.

By noon, the courtyard is full, and the sound of corks

popping fills the air. Enjoying dinner there was a treat for the senses, and it’s the place to be seen. An infectious gaiety was in the air and the cuisine was divine.

Le Bilboquet is a five-star dining experience that will not soon be forgotten.

Whether you dine in the charming courtyard, at the bar, or in the interior dining room, a meal at Le Bilboquet in Palm Beach is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

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Over the past several years, many people have mentioned to me that travel isn’t what it used to be. When I think of the moniker “the Golden Age of Travel” and what that means today, especially after being shuttered in our homes last year, one word comes to mind, and that is appreciation. There is a newness in the air, a desire not only to travel but to totally immerse oneself in your surroundings and destination and truly get away from it all.

It’s hard not to name-drop in Palm Beach, as there are so many celebrities, business tycoons, heirs and heiresses, and both old and new money. But one thing is certain in an atmosphere of wealth and influence by the beach—a game of backgammon or chess on a balmy tropical afternoon can be exactly what is needed in a world looking to decompress and reset.

Bye for now, Palm Beach.

This article is Part One of a two-part exploration of the Palm Beaches of Florida. Stay tuned for a feature on Delray Beach coming in a future issue of VIE! Visit ThePalmBeaches.com to learn more and start planning your stay.

Petite pause

Seaside Summers

When reminiscing on some of our finest summer memories, we always come back to Seaside, Florida.

The small New Urbanism beach town has a way of transporting us to a dream filled with sunny days on the sand, smiling, laughing, and endless good vibes.

To learn more or find out how to book a stay, visit SeasideFL.com.

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ong known as the most popular vacation destination along Northwest Florida’s Gulf Coast, Panama City Beach has welcomed visitors to its sunny white-sand shores even before it became incorporated in 1977.

It’s got many monikers—some of them more flattering than others—but the “World’s Most Beautiful Beaches” is one that’s undeniably accurate. According to TripAdvisor, the twenty-seven-mile stretch of dazzling Gulf of Mexico coastline ranks in the top three beaches in the US. As locals, we might be a little biased, but we agree. If you’re planning a trip to Panama City Beach this year, take a look at these ten stops, from east to west, and consider adding a few to your vacation itinerary!

SAINT ANDREWS STATE PARK AND SHELL ISLAND The views, the warm Gulf waters, and the spectacular sandy beaches across Panama City Beach truly can’t be beaten, but Saint Andrews State Park is a favorite among locals and visitors alike for a peaceful, relaxing beach day immersed in nature’s beauty.

Saint Andrews State Park offers fishing, kayak and paddleboard rentals, campsites, picnic areas, grills, cycling and walking paths, geocaching, boat slips, snorkeling, swimming, and wildlife viewing. Catch the shuttle boat for a tour of Shell Island, a secluded beach across the mouth of Saint Andrew Bay where you can find some souvenir shells, as it lives up to its name!

FloridaStateParks.org/parks-and-trails/st-andrews-state-park

From kayaking and paddleboarding to swimming, fishing, boating, sunbathing, and looking for shells along the white-sand beaches, there’s never a short supply of fun in the sun in Panama City Beach, Florida!

Photos courtesy of Visit Panama City Beach

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CAPTAIN ANDERSON’S RESTAURANT & WATERFRONT MARKET A staple of Panama City Beach since 1967, Captain Anderson’s is a must for many returning visitors year after year. The expansive restaurant and bar overlook the marina on Grand Lagoon just off Thomas Drive. The restaurant’s proprietors, the Patronis family, work year-round with local fishermen, oyster providers, and other local purveyors to not only harvest the freshest seafood but also preserve the Gulf Coast’s underwater ecosystems to ensure a thriving environment for wildlife. This award-winning landmark restaurant and seafood market welcome guests to enjoy dinner, dessert, wine, cocktails, and a great atmosphere eight months of the year.

CaptAndersons.com

GRAN MAZE AT COCONUT CREEK FAMILY FUN PARK Tucked between Front Beach Road and Thomas Drive, you might notice a series of white fences rising tall among palm trees, quirky sea creatures, and four colorful towers. This fun-filled labyrinth is the Gran Maze at Coconut Creek Family Fun 134 | JUNE 2 0 21

Above: Book your stay at one of PCB’s beautiful beachfront condominiums or private vacation homes near the sparkling Gulf of Mexico.

Park, a twisting puzzle for kids of all ages, families, and friends to navigate. Be sure to stop at all four checkpoints within the labyrinth and then submit your card at the end to see how your time stacks up against others who visited that day! Coconut Creek also has a beautiful miniature golf course so you can tee up and compete with your squad for some more classic PCB fun.

CoconutCreekFun.com

Photo courtesy of Panama City Beach Left: The food, atmosphere, and traditions at Captain Anderson’s Restaurant and Waterfront Market are second to none.

Photo by Romona Robbins

Left: You can often see dolphins swimming in the Gulf of Mexico or Saint Andrew Bay; visitors can also get an up-close experience at the Gulf World marine park!

Photo courtesy of Visit Panama City Beach Below left: Stop by Firefly Restaurant and Sushi Bar for a memorable dinner, and look for their new lunchtime café, On The Fly, coming soon.

Photo courtesy of On The Fly

FIREFLY RESTAURANT & SUSHI BAR Maybe you’re visiting the beach for an anniversary, honeymoon, birthday, or another special occasion, or perhaps you just want a fantastic dinner any night of the week. The atmosphere, food, cocktails, wine selection, and service at Firefly have made it a go-to spot for casual fine dining near the beach. The award-winning restaurant and bar offer fresh seafood, steaks, pasta, salads, and appetizers that always satisfy. The she-crab soup is a must-try, while the Firefly Sushi Bar offers an incredible selection of rolls, nigiri, and more. Lunch will soon be available for takeout via the restaurant’s new On The Fly café, right next door!

FireflyPCB.com

GULF WORLD

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EDUCATION AND CONSERVATION ARE TOP OF MIND AT GULF WORLD MARINE PARK, WHERE GUESTS CAN EXPERIENCE PROFESSIONAL EXHIBITIONS AND UP-CLOSE ENCOUNTERS WITH INCREDIBLE CREATURES NATIVE TO THE GULF OF MEXICO AND BEYOND.

Have you ever wanted to splash and play with dolphins, sea lions, penguins, and more? Education and conservation are top of mind at Gulf World Marine Park, where guests can experience professional exhibitions and up-close encounters with incredible creatures native to the Gulf of Mexico and beyond. Daily educational shows are available, along with exhibits, interactive experiences, and a feathered friends show for aviary fans. You can also learn more about the Adopt a Sea Turtle program benefiting the Gulf World Marine Institute’s conservation efforts for these incredible creatures who nest annually on Panama City Beach.

GulfWorldMarinePark.com

DIEGO’S BURRITO FACTORY For a casual night out with friends and some delicious tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and margaritas, look no further than Diego’s, with locations on Front Beach Road and Thomas Drive. The indoor-outdoor atmosphere is lively, perfect for kicking back and relaxing after a day on the beach or watching the latest sporting events. Try the shrimp tacos for a taste of the Gulf, and don’t forget all the accouterments such as fresh guacamole, salsa, and queso.

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THE PARK’S WALKING TRAILS OFFER A LOOK AT NORTHWEST FLORIDA’S DYNAMIC ECOSYSTEM, FROM WHITE-SAND BEACHES

RUSSELL-FIELDS PIER AND DOGGIE BEACH Get a new perspective on the beach when you take a stroll to the end of RussellFields Pier at Pier Park! Also known as City Pier, this centrally located icon is an excellent spot for fishing or watching local anglers pull in their catch for the day. On the beach below, look for the canines splashing in the waves, as Panama City Beach’s pet-friendly area is located here. Leashed pups are welcome to enjoy the sand, sun, and surf with their two-legged companions.

AND THE SALTWATER GULF

SKYWHEEL PANAMA CITY BEACH

TO THE FLATWOODS, THE

Want the best view of Pier Park, the white-sand beach, and the shimmering Gulf beyond? Take a ride in the SkyWheel, a two-hundred-foot, all-enclosed observation wheel with ample windows and panoramic vistas. For a truly unforgettable experience, try it at sunset! The exciting attraction also includes an eighteen-hole miniature golf course, a ropes course, and the Snack Shack, all located in the heart of the Pier Park shopping, dining, and entertainment district.

FRESHWATER LAKE, THE MARSH, AND MORE.

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THOMAS DONUT & SNACK SHOP Nostalgia is served! Since 1971, Thomas Donut & Snack Shop has been a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The walk-up bakery and cafe makes hundreds of fresh doughnuts, cinnamon twists, apple fritters, and so much more daily. They also offer breakfast and lunch items, including kolaches, burgers, hot dogs, pizza, sandwiches, fries, milkshakes, coffee, and more. Grab it and go for a special treat in your vacation rental, or stick around to lounge on the deck and take in the soothing sound of waves and unobstructed view of the Gulf of Mexico just across Front Beach Road.

ThomasDonutandSnackShop.com

CAMP HELEN STATE PARK Above left and top right: Panama City Beach is bookended by incredible natural surroundings, from Camp Helen State Park on Lake Powell to Saint Andrews State Park on the Saint Andrew Bay. Above right: Thomas Donut and Snack Shop has all the delicious fresh-baked doughnuts, pastries, sandwiches, coffee, and milkshakes you can imagine—with the best view!

Right: Fish, stroll, and enjoy the panoramic views from RussellFields Pier, located at Pier Park.

Photos courtesy of Visit Panama City Beach

On the west end of town, just past the outflow from Lake Powell, Camp Helen State Park bids PCB visitors adieu (or welcome, if you’re headed east).

The park’s walking trails offer a look at Northwest Florida’s dynamic ecosystem, from white-sand beaches and the saltwater Gulf to the flatwoods, the freshwater lake, the marsh, and more. Paddleboard and kayak rentals are available, along with picnic areas, fishing, and events. If you choose to spend your day on the park’s beautiful beach, pack a lunch and plenty of sunscreen so you can relax and enjoy the salty air and to-die-for sunsets.

FloridaStateParks.org/parks-and-trails/ camp-helen-state-park

Head to VisitPanamaCityBeach.com to learn more and start planning your next beach vacation!

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ARTIST OF THE YEAR

CHANDLER WILLIAMS SOUTH WALTON PHOTOGRAPHER Chandler Williams of Modus Photography has built a career capturing the essence of South Walton, Florida — exploring the details that make it so unique. Having grown up in Walton County, he has a true insider’s familiarity with the 16 beach neighborhoods.

While Williams loves the vibrant communities, his true muse is the natural beauty surrounding them. Drawn to the pristine local landscapes, from sugar-white sand beaches to rare coastal dune lakes, he sees his photographs as an extension of this extraordinary landscape. Each image connects the viewer with their personal South Walton experience, no matter where they are.

VisitSouthWalton.com/Chandler-Williams

“I love the challenge of trying to capture the moment.”

Framed by pristine natural beauty, South Walton offers endless opportunities to relax and make cherished memories. Find your perfect beach at VisitSouthWalton.com.

MIRAMAR BEACH • SEASCAPE • SANDESTIN • DUNE ALLEN • GULF PLACE • SANTA ROSA BEACH • BLUE MOUNTAIN BEACH GRAYTON BEACH • WATERCOLOR • SEASIDE • SEAGROVE • WATERSOUND • SEACREST • ALYS BEACH • ROSEMARY BEACH • INLET BEACH

from DOWNTOWN to BEACH TOWN

DO IT ALL IN

H ISTOR IC PE N SAC OL A

by EMME MARTIN

Paddleboarding in Big Lagoon State Park is an excellent way to connect with nature and get a killer core workout!

Photo by Corey Nolen Opposite: Gather your friends and head to George Bistro + Bar for rich flavors and great cocktails.

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Known for its rich cultural history and proud military heritage, Pensacola, Florida, has a story to tell. Since being established in 1559, the city has changed ownership five times, inspiring its nickname, the City of Five Flags. The Spanish, French, British, Confederate, and American flags have all flown over the lovely city. Over the centuries, the city has emerged as a cultural hot spot featuring a bustling metropolitan downtown area and a more laid-back beachside community. Pensacola has it all, from endless preserved nature trails waiting to be explored by day to fabulous fine dining to enjoy by night. It is the perfect place for a weekend getaway or Gulf Coast staycation for those times when you want to reduce screen time and spend quality moments with loved ones.

If you’re looking for a fun night out in Pensacola, locals will probably direct you to the lively downtown area. Downtown Pensacola is as charming as it gets.

Nineteenth-century buildings line the streets, and the 1920s Saenger Theatre hosts Broadway musicals for visitors and residents alike to enjoy. Festivals and more abound throughout the year. With so much action happening downtown, sometimes Pensacola Beach can get overlooked due to its more laid-back atmosphere, and up-and-coming areas such as Perdido Key are some of the best-kept local secrets. Be sure to take a look at the fun activities and delicious eats from all over the area in this 2021 travel guide!

ON THE BEACH SIDE SUNSET GRILLE Waterfront Sunset Grille in Perdido Key has got you covered on all things seafood and fried favorites. It is the quintessential beach restaurant, outfitted with boat parking, family-friendly menus, and hospitable service. Hush puppies and a view—it just doesn’t get much better!

MyHolidayHarbor.com/sunset-grille.php

RED FISH BLUE FISH & W AT E R P I G B B Q Red Fish Blue Fish gives an authentic experience, from simply delicious food to the reclaimed wooden planks in the entryway and sustainable design elements. Their

seafood is never frozen, so you can expect fresh flavors and, of course, genuine Southern hospitality. Next door is Water Pig BBQ, which was recently mentioned in USA Today’s list of best new restaurants in the nation and has been ranked as the best familyfriendly and pet-friendly restaurant on the beach. You can’t go wrong with these two!

RedFishBlueFishPensacolaBeach.com; WaterPigBBQ.com

FLOUNDER’S CHOWDER HOUSE Live entertainment, anyone? Flounder’s is hard to miss, with the M/V Flounder shrimp boat gracing the entrance. It doesn’t get much more Floridian than this restaurant filled with exciting antiques, objets d’art, and model ships. While admiring the unique atmosphere and live entertainment, you can enjoy delicious seafood, burgers, tacos, and boat drinks.

FloundersChowderHouse.com

THE GRAND MARLIN Built on a philosophy of a stress-free Caribbean lifestyle, good food and drinks, and a love of fishing, the Grand Marlin in Pensacola Beach is a tasty catch. Award-winning chefs Gregg McCarthy and his partner Bryan Housley have curated a delicious menu filled with the finest seafood and signature cocktails. The Grand Marlin offers an elevated dining experience mixed with the simplicity of life at the beach.

TheGrandMarlin.com

BONSAI Our list would not be complete without a top-notch sushi restaurant. Awardwinning executive chef Omar Torres brings guests a unique and contemporary dining experience that combines top-shelf ingredients from renowned farms around the country with the freshest seafood. Bonsai fuses Japanese cuisine with innovative modern American cooking techniques. The restaurant is located on the second floor of the Hilton Hotel and overlooks the Gulf of Mexico, giving guests a fully immersive experience they will never forget.

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LET’S TAKE IT DOWNTOWN R E S TA U R A N T I R O N Are you looking for a fine-dining experience in the heart of downtown? Look no further than Restaurant Iron, an elegant Southern kitchen led by executive chef Alex McPhail. The kitchen aims to bring together fresh local and regional specialties with the most nuanced flavors and ingredients from across the nation. The understated yet modern interior is the perfect setting for a romantic date night or a celebratory dinner. You’ll thank us later!

RestaurantIron.com

A N G E L E N A’ S R I S T O R A N T E I TA L I A N O Angelena’s is a must-go modern Italian restaurant in the historic downtown district. Led by Food Network personality and nationally renowned chef James Briscione, the restaurant combines rustic yet elegant plates with an Italian coastal vibe. The dishes are just as delicious as they are visually stunning. The in-house wine director, Brooke Parkhurst, will also help you with all of your pairing preferences so that you can achieve the whole authentic Italian experience right in downtown Pensacola.

AngelenasPensacola.com

T H E D I S T R I C T: S E V I L L E STEAK AND SEAFOOD

Led by Food Network personality and nationally renowned chef James Briscione, the restaurant combines rustic yet elegant plates with an Italian coastal vibe.

Located in a two-story building built on top of the Spanish Presidio and British Fort Pensacola over 130 years ago, the atmosphere here exudes history. Apart from the significance of the structure, the food is second to none. The District is known for serving only the highest-grade steak, dry aged to perfection. Executive chef Josh Warner and pastry chef Eden Galloway treat guests to an elevated dining experience that keeps guests eager to return.

DistrictSteaks.com

HEADING EAST GEORGE BISTRO + BAR Located in northeast Pensacola, George Bistro + Bar is all about fresh and unique Southern food. The space is charming yet modern, and the warm service delights patrons while they enjoy a light lunch or a romantic candlelit dinner. The dinner menu boasts delicious entrées, including Alfredo pappardelle and miso-marinated halibut. George Bistro + Bar is simply a delight!

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PENSACOLA MUSEUM OF ART Located in a reclaimed building that was once the first permanent jail in the community, the Pensacola Museum of Art is an art-loving history buff ’s dream.

It now houses exciting exhibitions rather than inmates, and the museum is the perfect destination for a unique and inspiring afternoon activity with the whole family.

PensacolaMuseum.org

TA C O S M E X I C A N O S EAST HILL Who doesn’t love an authentic taco paired with delicious queso dip? Let me know when you find someone.

Tacos Mexicanos is the perfect afternoon lunch spot.

Guests can order from the food truck and enjoy outdoor seating while they snack on delicious chips and salsa, street-style tacos, burritos, and more. The flavors are phenomenal—not to mention wallet-friendly.

TacosMexican.com

THINGS TO SEE N AT I O N A L N AV A L AV I AT I O N M U S E U M

Left: The National Naval Aviation Museum at NAS Pensacola is an impressive stop for history buffs and fans of aircraft alike. Be sure to visit their website for current access guidelines before you plan your trip.

PENSACOLA BEACH GULF PIER

Photo courtesy of the National Naval Aviation Museum

You haven’t had the entire beach experience until you’ve visited a magnificent pier jutting into the shimmering Gulf of Mexico. The Pensacola Beach Gulf Pier is a wonder to behold, with an impressive length of 1,471 feet. Visitors are welcome to try their hands at fishing or just enjoy the view and a stroll!

FishPensacolaBeachPier.com

Opposite top: The miso-marinated roasted halibut at George Bistro + Bar is one dinner special you’ll want to come back for again and again.

FORT PICKENS Completed in 1834 and named after Revolutionary War hero Andrew Pickens, Fort Pickens is a pentagonal historic United States military fort on Santa Rosa Island, part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore.

Visitors can enjoy guided tours, camping, and more while they soak up the history and beautiful scenery. It is a great place to appreciate nature while also learning about Florida and American history.

NPS.gov/guis

B I G L A G O O N S TAT E PA R K Wetlands are fascinating and valuable geographical settings that provide many benefits for our environment. Visitors can get up close and experience the

Photo by Emily Veal, courtesy of George Bistro + Bar Opposite bottom: Stop

by Angelena’s in the heart of downtown Pensacola for delicious, authentic Italian dishes, pizza, and an incredible wine selection.

Photo courtesy of Angelena’s Below: Spadefish gathering on the reef at Park East, part of the Footprints in the Sand Eco Trail with stops throughout Pensacola.

Photo by Carol Cox

You don’t have to be an aviator to appreciate this museum. Located at Naval Air Station Pensacola, the National Naval Aviation Museum is the world’s largest museum of its kind. It holds over 150 beautifully restored aircraft representing Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard aviation. Guests can also experience flight simulators and virtual flight decks to get the whole experience. The museum also offers play areas for the little ones. The Department of the Navy currently requires a valid Department of Defense (DoD) ID card for any visitors to access NAS Pensacola, and ID cardholders are allowed to escort up to fifteen guests to the museum.

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Voyager natural beauty and wildlife of wetlands in Big Lagoon State Park, located in Perdido Key. The park offers hiking, biking, kayaking, snorkeling, and camping. It is the perfect place for an active day with your loved ones.

FloridaStateParks.org/parks-and-trails/big-lagoon-state-park

Right: Fort Pickens is a majestic historic site visitors can explore along the scenic Gulf Islands National Seashore.

Photo courtesy of the National Park Service Opposite: Glow Paddle in Pensacola Beach offers exciting clear kayak excursions in the daytime and after dark!

Photo courtesy of Glow Paddle Below: The newly remodeled Oyster Bay Boutique Hotel is a great place to stay close to the bustling downtown area, while Pensacola Beach offers scenic Gulf-front condos at Portofino Island Resort and more.

Photo by Aislinn Kate Photography

THINGS TO DO FOOTPRINTS IN THE SAND ECO TRAIL Pensacola is home to a fragile and diverse ecosystem. The Footprints in the Sand Eco Trail allows visitors to witness this through an eight-and-a-half-mile trail whether they are walking, biking, running, or even swimming. The course boasts twenty-nine stops scattered across Pensacola Beach. Each stop tells a different story about the specific region and will guide guests to the next. The trail is the perfect outdoor activity for those who love nature and exploring the world around them.

VisitPensacolaBeach.com/wp_2017/ecotrail

PREMIER DOLPHIN CRUISE Look no further than Premier Dolphin Cruise in Pensacola Beach for the best cruising experience on the Gulf Coast. The cruise takes place on a spacious, sixty-three-foot, open-air, covered catamaran. The catamaran includes restrooms, music, a bar, food, and souvenirs so guests can sit back, relax, and enjoy the view out on the Gulf so blue.

Hopefully, you’ll spot some friendly dolphins and other wildlife along the way!

PensacolaDolphinCruise.com

G L O W PA D D L E Enjoy a majestic nighttime kayaking trip with Glow Paddle in Pensacola Beach.

Visitors can glide over the Pensacola waters in crystal clear LED-lighted kayaks.

Bookings start at 7:00 p.m. and are forty-five minutes long. Daytime bookings for the clear kayaks are also available. Glow Paddle is the perfect experience for the whole family or a group of friends looking to do something new and fun.

GlowPaddle.com

INNERLIGHT SURF CAMP AND LESSONS It’s never too late to live out your dream of learning to surf like a pro! Innerlight Surf Camp and Lessons offers surfing lessons to all ages, led by experienced instructors. Private and group lessons are available for at least one hour with complimentary board use. Summer surf camps are also open, offering top-notch instruction with the integration of ocean science!

InnerlightSurf.com

L A G U N A’ S B E A C H BAR + GRILL AND A D V E N T U R E PA R K Are you looking for a family-friendly, fun-filled adventure? Laguna’s has you covered, offering activities like 144 | JUNE 2 0 21

go-karts, a three-story SkyRail ropes course, a splash pad, a thirty-foot-tall clip-and-climb course, a zip line, parasailing, jet ski rentals, and more. All of this is along six hundred feet of pristine beachfront. You’ll never get bored here, whether you are hitting the ropes course or enjoying a drink and delicious lunch or snacks at the Beach Bar + Grill.

LagunasPensacolaBeach.com

PLACES TO STAY O Y S T E R B AY BOUTIQUE HOTEL Go back in time when you book a room in this quaint boutique hotel. It is located in an 1860s-style estate with wraparound porches and views of Pensacola Bay, all within walking distance of downtown’s shops, restaurants, entertainment, and waterfront. In the center of the Historic Pensacola Village, Oyster Bay (formerly Lee House) provides a delightful experience like no other.

StayOysterBay.com

PENSACOLA VICTORIAN B E D & B R E A K FA S T Make yourself at home in this refined B and B in a restored Queen Anne Victorian home. The rooms are filled with antique furniture and charming touches.

Visitors will feel as though they have gone back in time as they enjoy the simple pleasures, friendly service, and comfortable atmosphere.

PensacolaVictorian.com

Each stop tells a different story about the specific region and will guide guests to the next. The trail is the perfect outdoor activity for those who love nature and exploring the world around them.

PORTOFINO ISLAND RESORT The Portofino Island Resort is the perfect place for those who don’t even want to leave the resort during their vacation. This expansive property has it all, including seven outdoor pools, five tennis courts, three restaurants, a full-service spa, meeting rooms, family activities, and, of course, beautiful beaches.

Accommodations are spacious and airy, complete with Gulf views and full kitchens. This place defines a luxurious getaway on Pensacola Beach!

PortofinoIsland.com

M A R G A R I TAV I L L E BEACH HOTEL Looking for a good time on the beach? Look no further than the Margaritaville Beach Hotel. Named after the famous Jimmy Buffett song and his ultimate island lifestyle, this place does justice to both. This beachfront establishment features airy rooms with Gulf views and offers activities for the whole family. Completing a long list of amenities are a full-service beachside tiki bar and restaurant, so you never have to go without those frozen concoctions and fresh seafood.

MargaritavilleHotel.com

To learn even more about what to do, see, and eat in beautiful Pensacola, Florida, head to VisitPensacola.com.

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THE

MAINE

ATTRACTION

on top of t he worl d at c l if f h ouse

BY JOR DAN STAGG S | PH OTO S CO URTESY OF C LIFF HOUSE

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THE SALTY SEA SPR AY will invigorate your senses and the dramatic oceanfront views will transport you to another world when you book a stay or plan your next event at the scenic Cliff House resort in Ogunquit, Maine.

Above and left: The Cliff House resort and spa near Ogunquit, Maine, has welcomed guests since 1872 with stunning views of the rocky Atlantic coastline, fresh seafood, warm hospitality, and many local activities for them to enjoy.

When considering a beach-town getaway, most travelers might envision a sunny Caribbean island or a hip West Coast bungalow. Still, the rocky cliffsides and Atlantic ports of the Northeastern US hold a charm all their own. Cliff House offers visitors a taste of that New England lifestyle with stunning panoramic views from its luxurious rooms, suites, and dining areas. The expansive pool deck and outdoor greens are outfitted with fire pits and Adirondack chairs for taking it all in any time of year. This award-winning destination also recently underwent a complete “reimagining,” with V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 147

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countless improvements and new amenities for guests to enjoy, so there’s never been a better time to visit.

Above: Perched atop Bald Head Cliff, the resort includes amenities such as oceanfront dining and balconies, two seasonal swimming pools, year-round hot tubs, a full-service spa, an art gallery, a fitness center, a boutique, beautiful wedding and event spaces, and more.

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The resort’s storied history dates back to Reconstruction when the Boston and Maine Railroad began planning a new hub in the nearby town of York in the late-1860s. Savvy Elsie Jane, the wife of Captain Theodore Weare, seized a business opportunity when she heard this news. She planned to build a resort atop Bald Head Cliff with her husband and her brother, Captain Charles Perkins. The Cliff House opened in 1872 and quickly gained a reputation as one of the most preferred vacation destinations for New England’s elite families.

“I love the history of when Elsie Jane opened the Cliff House in 1872, operated the hotel and the farm, invested in real estate, and managed the family business,” says current Cliff House managing director Nancy White, who has been with the resort in various roles since 2015. “She raised seven children and also cared for her husband when he suffered from consumption—such an amazing woman and so ahead of her time! Back then, rates in the premier season were six dollars per week, per person.

That included all three meals. I can only imagine the refined experience and stimulating conversations had among guests.”

Those conversations endure today as visitors gather to enjoy fresh seafood in Cliff House’s upscale Tiller Restaurant, the outdoor Cove Bar & Grille, and the quintessential Nubbs Lobster Shack, which serves all the seaside favorites and Maine lobster rolls that guests can’t get enough of year after year. According to the resort’s website, many returning visitors claim that Cliff House is where “their spirits soar.”

MANY RETURNING VISITORS CLAIM THAT CLIFF HOUSE IS WHERE “THEIR SPIRITS SOAR.” Reimagining the resort was done in phases within the past several years, and the results are truly stunning. TruexCullins and Cooper Carry architecture and interior design firms were responsible for the classic coastal elements that permeate each space at Cliff House. “The design team never wavered in delivering a ‘true to Maine’ backdrop lined with refinement and sophistication,” White shares. “They combined a rather traditional New England atmosphere in one building with a contemporary adjacent building and then added over ninety guest rooms scaped around the Bald Head Cliff coastline. They created a seamless transition that feels connected, intimate, and all born together.”

The main lobby features floor-to-ceiling windows and a grand staircase on the opposite end, allowing guests a breathtaking view of the Atlantic Ocean, grounding them in an immersive and authentic Maine experience before they even complete checkin. This is just a glimpse of all the wonders they will behold during their stay. “The

energy lifts you and relieves stress while putting life in perspective, all in one breath,” White expounds. “This is my favorite element of the resort. Of course, the stylish design, coastal-chic decor, two-sided floor-toceiling stone fireplace, and awesome ocean-front views are also quite impressive.”

There’s no shortage of activities and amenities to enjoy in addition to the sweeping scenery. Cliff House boasts an oversized outdoor hot tub open year-round, swimming pools, seventy acres with trails and gardens, ocean-front dining and coastal cuisine, a luxury spa, boutiques and shopping, entertainment, and diversified programming for plein-air painting, concerts,

Top: Take a stroll around nearby Perkins Cove for shopping and dining, or talk to the Cliff House concierge about booking a local fishing excursion.

Above left: A trip to Maine wouldn’t be complete without lobster rolls!

Above right: The Spa at Cliff House offers a range of treatments, including massages, facials, manicures and pedicures, couples experiences, and more.

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fireworks, kayaking, fishing, surfing, sledding, golfing, beach activities, and more.

Of course, no trip to Maine would be complete without enjoying some unparalleled seafood.

“THE DESIGN TEAM NEVER WAIVERED IN DELIVERING A ‘TRUE TO MAINE’ BACKDROP LINED WITH REFINEMENT AND SOPHISTICATION.”

“One of my favorite dishes served in Tiller has been on the menu since our reimagination—the scallop and lobster fried rice,” says White. “I love this dish because it’s local and playful, with so many flavors, and it’s a bit nontraditional for the region. The ingredients are sourced locally, including the most flavorful scallops from Casco Bay. Chef ’s play on an Asian classic is unique yet still true to Maine.

Another favorite way to dine at Cliff House is our Catch and Cook program, which makes you work a little for your dinner. During the day, you can enjoy a lobstering tour with Finestkind fishing charters in Perkins Cove. They’ll take you on a fun, educational tour of the Maine lobstering industry. On the dock, you’ll gather your catch and bring it back to Tiller for a sea-to-table dining experience.”

The arts are also very much alive at Cliff House. In addition to its plein-air painting program designed so guests can enjoy the great outdoors while honing their fine-art skills, the property also features a gallery full of local art. It also supports local museums, art galleries, and theaters to help promote culture in the area. Additionally, the resort leads an environmental conservation program in partnership with One Tree Planted, which plants a tree in honor of every guest who books a suite at Cliff House. As if these efforts were not enough, the resort further supports over 120 local charities.

For an authentic Maine getaway experience, you can’t go wrong booking a room—or your next wedding or event—at the incredible Cliff House. There’s no doubt that, from the beautiful architecture and views to the fresh seafood and warm hospitality, Elsie Jane would be proud of the legacy her family and the staff have created at this oceanside vacation destination.

Whether you enjoy the views from the resort’s signature Tiller Restaurant (above) or your private balcony in one of Cliff House’s guest rooms, suites, or cottages (right), dining here is never a dull experience.

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TO LEARN MORE OR BOOK YOUR STAY, VISIT CLIFFHOUSEMAINE.COM.

LEADER IN LUXURY REAL ESTATE

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5 6T H AC A D E MY O F CO U N T RY M U S I C AWA R DS The 56th Annual Country Music Awards show was nothing short of a star-studded event. Broadcast live from the Grand Ole Opry House and other iconic venues in Nashville, it was hosted by Keith Urban and Mickey Guyton, the first African American woman to host the show. Miranda Lambert, Elle King, Kelsea Ballerini, Kenny Chesney, Eric Church, Luke Combs, and more left the audience speechless with their stellar performances. Entertainer of the Year went to Luke Bryan, who accepted his award virtually.

Maren Morris also came out on top with awards for Female Artist of the Year and Song of the Year for “The Bones.” Other winners included Carly Pearce and Lee Brice, who won Single of the Year and Music Event of the Year for their collaboration, “I Hope You’re Happy Now.” Photography courtesy of the Academy of Country Music

Mickey Guyton 152 | JUNE 2 0 21

Maren Morris and Ryan Hurd

Gabby Barrett

Thomas Rhett

Little Big Town

Kelsea Ballerini ??

Carly Pearce Carrie Underwood

Chris Young and Kane Brown

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La scène

Tim Jackson and Donnie Sundal 154 | JUNE 2 0 21

??

The Krickets

Donnie Sundal

Duke Bardwell (front) and Tim Jackson

T I M J AC K S O N ’ S STO RY T E L L E R S TO U R Grammy-nominated songwriter Tim Jackson and some of his favorite artists celebrate the art of songwriting through Tim Jackson’s Storytellers Tour, a night of songs and stories brought to life on stage in small-town theaters across the Southeast. As the scene is set with a 1950s gas pump, an American flag, a gramophone, a lamppost, two wheels from a 1935 Ford Victoria, and other vintage items, audiences revel in the authentic escape that the Storytellers Tour provides through simply beautiful stories and songs. The tour came to the Emerald Coast Theatre in Miramar Beach, Florida, on April 27, 2021.

Hugh Mitchell

Photography by Lynn Crow

Ellee Duke

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The Last Word

Solution on next page

BEACH TOWNS from COAST TO COAST

BY MYLES MELLOR

ACROSS

DOWN

1 6 9 10 12 13 15 16 17 20

1

22 24 25 26 27 29 30 31

Central Florida beach town on the Gulf of Mexico State where Myrtle Beach is famous (abbr.)

Places to swim Southernmost city in the US, known for its coral reefs (2 words) Move in little waves onto the shore Deckhands Fishing spot Dawn time (abbr.)

Day before a big day Florida beach town famous for its sugar-white sands and emerald-hued waters Hawaiian island where snorkeling is a must Home to Waikiki Beach Amaze California coastal town with jaw-dropping views and rock formations (2 words) Granny or bowline Scheduled to arrive Ties up securely Vacation visit

2 3 4 5 7 8 11 14 15 18 19 21 23 24 27 28

Massachusetts beach town famous for its architecture style (2 words) Call up Romantic flower Bracelet location, sometimes Bangles song “Walk Like an ____” Twin-hulled boat Caribbean, for one Have something ____ suit Aniston of Along Came Polly, for short Small towns With 24-Down, South Carolina beach town Florida island known for its shell beaches and wildlife refuges Attraction See 19-Down DIY purchase Open, as a keg

V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 157

The Last Word Puzzle on previous page

“

If there’s a heaven for me, I’m sure it has a beach attached to it.

—Jimmy Buffett

”

MAKE IT A GETAWAY. MAKE IT YOURS.

If you’re dreaming of a beach vacation, escape to Panama City Beach, Florida. Relax, unwind and play on 27 miles of sugar-white sands stretching along turquoise waters. As TripAdvisor’s No. 2 “Emerging Destination” in the world, PCB is one place you don’t want to miss. Come for the fun and return home with lasting memories.

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Au revoir!

An idyllic Jamaican day captured by Jeremy Harwell, HarwellPhotography.com

Au revoir!

BEFORE YOU GO . . .

Friendly, lively, and drop-dead gorgeous, Jamaica is the perfect island setting for a destination wedding or any special occasion. Photographer Jeremy Harwell does the scenery justice in this photo, showing the lush tropical greenery and blue waters as they create an intimate escape from everyday living.

V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 161

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