For our Summertime Issue, artist Francisco Adaro captures the essence of the season in a dreamlike scene with sun-soaked pastels and lush tropical hues. Inviting readers into a world where time slows and summer lingers a little longer, Adaro’s signature style blends whimsy, elegance, and tranquility, creating an escape that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly modern. This vibrant painting titled El Jardin Secreto celebrates the simple pleasures of the season—sunshine, leisure, and the beauty of being fully present in the moment. Read the feature on page 22!
Artwork by Francisco Adaro
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-andwife 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
FEATURE
REFLECTING THE WARMTH AND SOULFUL BEAUTY OF NEW ORLEANS, LYRA IS A HISTORIC VACATION RENTAL BY DEAR VALENTINE, THOUGHTFULLY DESIGNED FOR COMFORT AND STYLE.
22 A Life In Color: From Argentina to 30A, Francisco Adaro Paints Life as He Remembers It
VISUAL PERSPECTIVES 20
30 Petite pause: Set the Table with Addison Ross
34 The Renaissance of Melissa Davis: Art Comes in Many Seasons
40 L’intermission: Rip Curl x FARM Rio
42 The Art of Summer
VOYAGER 48
50 Along the Rhine: Castles, Cathedrals, and Fairy-Tale Towns
58 Petite pause: Louis Vuitton City Guide, Paris
60 Where History Lives On: A Stay at Lyra New Orleans
66 L’intermission: Louis Vuitton Flight Mode
68 Life Defined: The Heart of Alys Beach
76 Authentic Walton Awaits! Events and Exploration for Summer 2026
LE MONDE 80
82 Creating the Perfect Summer Soda: From Late July to Nixie, Nicole Dawes Knows Snacks & Sips
88 L’intermission: A Bite of Nobu Manalapan
92 We’re Going to the Cinema: Summer 2026 Biggest Movies Showdown
98 Petite pause: The Abaco Club, Bahamas
SARTORIAL 100
102 Strong Girl Summer: A Celebration of Every-BODY with Sports Illustrated
108 L’intermission: American West Coast
INSPIRATIONS 110
112 Maybe the Tension Is a Good Thing
114 Petite pause: Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa
C’EST LA VIE CURATED COLLECTION 116
LA SCÈNE 124
THE LAST WORD 133
AU REVOIR! 138
Photo courtesy of Dear Valentine
CREATIVE TEAM
CEO / EDITOR-IN-CHIEF / CREATIVE DIRECTOR
LISA MARIE BURWELL LISA@VIEMAGAZINE.COM
FOUNDER / PUBLISHER
GERALD BURWELL GERALD@VIEMAGAZINE.COM
EDITORIAL
EDITOR
JORDAN STAGGS JORDAN@VIEMAGAZINE.COM
ASSISTANT EDITORS
KATIE OGLETREE KATIE@VIEMAGAZINE.COM
CAITLYN BURRUS CAITLYN @ VIEMAGAZINE.COM
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
MEGHAN RYAN ASBURY, SARAH FREEMAN, ANTHEA GERRIE, MYLES MELLOR, CAROLYN O’NEIL, COLLEEN SACHS, XENIA TALIOTIS
ART AND PHOTOGRAPHY
ART DIRECTOR
JACK KIRKENDALL JACK@VIEMAGAZINE.COM
GRAPHIC DESIGNER CALLIE NUNLEY
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
LAUREN ATHALIA, HUNTER BURGTORF, JACK GARDNER, BRITTANY GODBEE, FRAZER HARRISON, JEFF LANDRETH, LAYNE LILLIE, MARK LITTLE, KURT LISCHKA, JAY MAIDMENT, STEVEN MANGUM, JOHN PARRA, CARLO PIERONI, ROMONA ROBBINS, ALEXANDER TAMARGO, DAVE WARREN, CHANDLER WILLIAMS, JUSTINE YEUNG, ADARO ART, AMAZON MGM STUDIOS, COLUMBIA TRISTAR MARKETING GROUP, DEUTSCHLAND ABGELICHTET, GETTY IMAGES, MODUS PHOTOGRAPHY, PARAMOUNT PICTURES, PEXELS, SHUTTERSTOCK, STM PHOTOGRAPHY, UNIVERSAL PICTURES, WALT DISNEY STUDIOS, WARNER BROS. PICTURES
ADVERTISING, SALES, AND MARKETING
DIRECTOR OF MARKETING / AD MANAGER
MORGAN CLAYBOURNE MORGAN@VIEMAGAZINE.COM
AD MANAGER
ABIGAIL RYAN ABBY@ VIEMAGAZINE.COM
BRAND AMBASSADORS
LISA MARIE BURWELL LISA@VIEMAGAZINE.COM
MARTA RATA MARTA@VIEMAGAZINE.COM
SUMMERTIME, and the LIVIN’ Is EASY
With a nod to the timeless refrain of “Summertime,” forever radiant in Ella Fitzgerald’s voice.
There is a particular ethos attached to life in a beach town. For many, it remains a lifelong dream—a glorious idea of sand, shimmering waters, and slow afternoons. For others, especially in Florida, that dream has become a reality. Hundreds of people continue to arrive here each day in search of something warmer, brighter, or simply different.
I arrived in 1993, leaving Boston for a newly created marketing position in the idyllic town of Seaside, Florida. Seaside is the birthplace of New Urbanism, founded by visionary developer Robert Davis more than forty years ago. At the time, Seaside still felt like a secret, even as the world was beginning to discover it. Then came The Truman Show. In 1995, director Peter Weir and stars Jim Carrey and Laura Linney helped put our little town on the map forever. Local merchant owners became extras, storefronts became backdrops, and Hollywood, incredibly, set up camp in the middle of our Florida beach town. It was surreal, thrilling, and impossible to fully comprehend in the moment. Destiny had arrived, but with a film crew in tow.
I miss those earlier days. They were quieter, slower, and less crowded by traffic and timetables. Not better in every way, but different in a way that remains precious to memory. Change is inevitable, but it is not always unkind. Without it, I might never have built a marketing boutique and publishing house here. I might never have met my husband. I might never have become the person this community has helped to shape. Places leave their mark on us, for which I am profoundly grateful. And, through all the growth and disruption, the beaches, among the most beautiful in the world, endure—waiting to encounter the generations yet to come.
feature story “A Life in Color,” by Caitlyn Burrus. His art brings a fresh resort spirit to the season in a soft, whimsical, and playful palette that feels both coastal and cosmopolitan. Francisco, an Argentine-born artist, transforms memory into joyful, ethereal storytelling. His canvases feature gauchos, musicians, animals, beachgoers, and imagined figures alive with motion and color. His style is refined yet mischievous, starting with loose charcoal lines that become striking oil paintings defined by clean curves, exaggerated forms, humor, warmth, and wonder. His inspiration comes from a lifetime of remembered places and experiences— Buenos Aires, Italy, New Orleans, Highway 30-A, family life, rescue animals, and his enduring belief that art is, as he says, “a message in a bottle.”
In this issue, we celebrate the essence of summer through the cover artwork by one of my favorite artists, Francisco Adaro. His life and work are explored in the
—Lisa
It is a gift to celebrate beauty, artistry, new ideas, people, and community through the pages of this magazine. For me, it has always felt like more than publishing. It has been a calling, even a kind of mission field that has shaped my life’s work for the past eighteen years. Of course, none of it would be possible without the continued support of our readers, advertisers, collaborators, and friends, who help keep this vision alive month after month.
With deep gratitude to you, and to my extraordinary team of creatives who bring each new edition into being, I remain forever thankful.
To Life!
Marie Burwell
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.
IN THIS ISSUE, WE ASKED THE CREATIVES TO FINISH THIS SENTENCE: “SUMMER ISN’T SUMMER WITHOUT ______.”
Designer & Founder of Dear Valentine @dearvalentine.co
Summer isn’t summer without our ritual of rushing to slow down. Having lived in New York for so many years—and meeting my husband in the Hamptons—summer has always felt like the annual reward after a long winter, marked by Summer Fridays, colorful farm stands, and a crisp, dry rosé. These days, with two young boys and a home base in New Orleans, it’s less about elaborate plans and more about lazy pool days, balmy evening walks before bedtime, and watching the ceiling fans cast shadows across the screened porch floor. It’s a bit slower than before, but just the right speed for the season we’re in right now.
with Brooke, and spend the day drawing while the kids play along the shore. On the beach, the colors are crisp and bright, the lines bold and playful. I like to stay curious, relax, and find my perfect next painting. Most of my sketches don’t make it into a painting, but they are part of the process.
Summer isn’t summer without beach days. It’s the yearly ritual of packing chairs, beach bags filled with towels, sunblock, and beach toys. It’s coolers iced with drinks, watermelon, and Pub subs, meeting up with family and friends, or perhaps retreating with a good book. I love bobbing around in our beautiful Gulf waters and relishing the long days, then cleaning up the sandy mess and doing it all again on repeat. Beach days hold some of the most treasured memories of my life.
Artist & Owner of Adaro Art @adaroart
Summer isn’t summer without a beach day with my family. Why? As a painter living in Santa Rosa Beach, summer is the perfect time to enjoy the beach with family. For me, it’s a special time to draw, write, and develop new ideas. I like to bring my sketch book, snorkels, and chairs, share mate
SUMMER ISN’T SUMMER WITHOUT A BEACH DAY WITH MY FAMILY. WHY? AS A PAINTER LIVING IN SANTA ROSA BEACH, SUMMER IS THE PERFECT TIME TO ENJOY THE BEACH WITH FAMILY.
Founder & CEO of Nixie Beverage Company @drinknixie
Summer isn’t summer without at least one trip to Sal’s Place in Provincetown! As a born and bred Cape Codder, my official dish of summer is linguini alle vongole, and Sal’s is the best! It’s the perfect place to spend a warm summer night with friends because they treat you like family. Bonus: it’s run by two wonderful women, Siobhan and her daughter Michela. Heads up—they only take cash, reservations are by phone only, and they open a pop-up in West Hollywood in the winter!
FRANCISCO ADARO
MELISSA SHELTON
NICOLE DAWES
MELISSA DAVIS
Artist & Yoga Instructor @balancegirl
The Golden Days
There is something special about this time of year—the warm glow of summer sunshine, longer daylight hours, and the sense of joy and possibility that fills the season. Fields shimmer under golden sunlight, sunsets linger well into the evening, and communities come alive with outdoor gatherings, celebrations, and family traditions. As summer unfolds, these golden days remind us to embrace the warmth, cherish the company of those around us, and make the most of the season’s many gifts.
Don’t forget to tag @viemagazine as your summer plans unfold!
@northbeachsocial Where are you watching the World Cup? Come hang with us at North Beach Social! We’ve got 20 new flatscreens around the restaurant, cool drinks, great views, new specials, and the perfect beach vibes for your weekend!
@fonville.press For the people—and the story behind it. Check out Fonville Press in the luxury coffee-table book COOK by VIE!
@julespicturepalace Thx for the mention, Robert. To read the full article in VIE magazine, visit the link in my bio.
@waterbornecoffee “But first, coffee. Opening Waterborne Coffee inside Eventure’s PCB location stemmed from working on the building every day for months and noticing a lack of great, accessible coffee options on the city’s west end. Both selfascribed ‘coffee fanatics,’ Medina and Cassidy decided that rather than having just a coffee pot in the office, they’d add another layer to the shop, and Waterborne Coffee came to life. The full-service coffee bar offers an array of coffee and espresso drinks, pastries, and café seating within the store.” —Jordan Staggs, VIE magazine, June 2026
LET’S TALK!
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
Visual Perspectives
In 2026, Lalique continues its artistic journey through the four elements, turning its gaze skyward. Air, the most elusive of them all, is captured in crystal through decorative objects, where savoir-faire, heritage, and modern elegance meet in a living expression of Art de Vivre.
View more from the collection at us.Lalique.com.
Visual Perspectives
EYE OF THE BEHOLDER
A gentle breeze on a summer evening. The shimmer of light on soft drapery. Soft and weightless, air dances with voluptuous grace. This is the inspiration for Air de Lalique. Each creation is a sculpture of movement: delicate, irregular undulations frozen in crystal, satin-polished and repolished until the light dances across every curve. The result is an elegance that seems to float—an ode to the beauty of the unseen. The palette captures the fleeting glow of a sunset: clear crystal for purity, coral patina for warmth and softness, and in the most precious editions, delicate sheets of rose gold leaf, each applied by hand, making every piece unique.
Francisco Adaro’s whimsical paintings and prints can be found at Adaro Art in Watersound, Florida, and at Orleans Gallery in New Orleans.
A Life
By CAITLYN BURRUS
Photography courtesy of ADARO ART
in Color
FROM ARGENTINA TO 30A, FRANCISCO ADARO
PAINTS LIFE AS HE REMEMBERS IT DREAMLIKE, JOYFUL, AND ENTIRELY HIS OWN.
The first thing you notice inside Adaro Art is the feeling that you’ve stepped into someone else’s memory.
Paintings stretch across the walls in playful color and movement. Wide-brimmed hats drift through dreamlike scenes. Musicians, animals, beachgoers, gauchos, and imaginary creatures appear somewhere between reality and recollection, all connected through Francisco Adaro’s unmistakable hand. Nothing feels rigid or overworked. Instead, the gallery hums with curiosity, humor, and warmth—the kind of place where every canvas seems to have its own story to tell.
Located at The Shops at The Hub along Florida’s Scenic Highway 30A, Adaro Art has become one of the coast’s most recognizable creative spaces, drawing visitors in with its contemporary whimsy and globally inspired perspective. But for Francisco
Adaro, the heart of the gallery was never simply about selling paintings. It was about creating an experience people would remember.
THAT VISION BEGAN YEARS AGO IN PARIS.
“Brooke and I went to Paris for our honeymoon many years ago and stumbled upon the most impressive window display I’ve ever seen,” Adaro recalls. “It was a humble light bulb store, but light bulbs were arranged in the window like priceless gems and treated like royalty.”
The display stayed in his mind. “The idea of Adaro Art was born that day,” he says. “We had the vision to create something that really created an impactful memory like that lightbulb store. You don’t need a lot of money; we didn’t have much, but you could make something beautiful and impactful with a vision.”
THAT SENSE OF WONDER CONTINUES TO DEFINE BOTH THE GALLERY AND THE ARTIST BEHIND IT.
Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Adaro fostered a connection to art from an early age. He remembers walking into the studio of his first art teacher and immediately understanding the kind of life he wanted to build for himself.
“It was in penumbras, but you could see thousands of paintings, sculptures, and brushes all over an intricate maze built by a life’s work that was sending me a message,” he says. “Since then, I have had a special attraction to art studios.”
Long before moving to Florida, Adaro spent years painting murals throughout Buenos Aires and, as a teenager, selling drawings on the streets. He studied art in Argentina while developing the expressive style that would later become synonymous with his work today. Though his paintings have evolved over the years, he says the foundation has always remained the same.
“I can see my present voice as a painter rooted in my earlier drawings,” he explains. “I always loved the practice of using a single line to start an idea.”
That single-line philosophy still shapes his process. Every painting begins with charcoal before layers of oil paint slowly bring the composition to life. The spontaneity of the drawing remains visible beneath the refinement of the final work.
“The beginning of every piece is total freedom,” Adaro says. “The lines talk to each other like in a game.”
There is a looseness to his imagery that feels instinctive rather than calculated, yet the finished paintings carry a remarkable level of precision and balance. Smooth gradients, clean curves, and exaggerated forms create compositions that feel both sophisticated and deeply playful.
THAT PLAYFULNESS IS CENTRAL TO ADARO’S IDENTITY—NOT JUST AS AN ARTIST, BUT AS A PERSON.
Contorno Suave by Francisco Adaro
“Whimsical means playful,” he says. “It’s a lifestyle.” He credits much of that perspective to his family life with his wife, Brooke, and their children, as well as the many rescue animals that regularly appear throughout his paintings. “My wife has surrounded me with the most random pets and two fun little kids, so I don’t take myself too seriously,” he says. “We are here for a moment, and then we are gone. Every day should be loved and enjoyed.”
“MY PAINTINGS ARE A DIARY OF MY JOURNEY THROUGH LIFE,” HE SAYS. “I WANT YOU TO SEE WHAT I SEE.” THOSE MEMORIES SPAN CONTINENTS.
Argentina remains deeply woven into his artistic language through gauchos, mate cups, and references to his upbringing. New Orleans, where the Orleans Gallery represents his work, inspires him through its layered culture and musical soul.
That philosophy radiates through his work. Even his most refined pieces carry an unmistakable sense of humor and humanity. A tilted expression, a hidden animal, or an exaggerated gesture quietly reminds viewers not to take life too seriously. “I truly enjoy my world and laugh a lot,” he says. “My works reflect a joyful lease on life.”
Though Adaro’s work often feels dreamlike, it is deeply rooted in reality, specifically, in memory. He describes his paintings almost as visual diary entries pulled from moments, places, and people that have stayed with him over time.
Italy has recently become another important chapter in his story after he and Brooke purchased and began restoring a centuries-old home in the ancient town of Mombaldone.
“My wife convinced me we should buy one of those Italian homes,” he says with a laugh. “So now we are one of those crazy couples that bought a 900-year-old part of an Italian castle to renovate.” Each year, the family spends time in the Italian countryside, where Adaro paints vineyards, ruins, neighbors, and daily life as inspiration continues to evolve around him.
Buenos Aires a 30A by Francisco Adaro
“ITALY IS REALLY MAGICAL FOR OUR FAMILY,” HE SAYS. “IT’S STUCK IN A TIME CAPSULE WHERE EVERYTHING IS SIMPLE AND TIME IS MUCH SLOWER.”
Despite those global influences, 30A remains central to both his life and his work. Adaro moved to the area in 2010 after reconnecting with Brooke years after their first meeting in Argentina. Their first gallery opened in Grayton Beach before eventually relocating to its current home at The Shops at The Hub. The move itself felt almost serendipitous.
“Our first gallery was located in Grayton, but the owners had sold the building,” he explains. “The space we are in now became available the week our previous lease was up.” Over time, the gallery became far more than a storefront. It became a creative landmark along the coast—part gallery, part immersive experience, part extension of Adaro’s world. “I want people to go ‘Wow!’” he says. “To know without a doubt that they have entered into a unique and memorable space and take them for a walk into my world.”
That emotional connection is what continues to resonate most strongly with collectors and visitors alike. His paintings may be whimsical, but they are never detached. Beneath the humor and color is a genuine sincerity about human connection, storytelling, and shared experience.
“I ALWAYS ADMIRED STORYTELLERS,” ADARO SAYS. “WE ARE MADE FROM THOSE MEMORIES.”
That perspective perhaps explains why so many people feel personally connected to his work. Even as his paintings reflect his own experiences, they leave space for viewers to insert pieces of themselves into the narrative.
Francisco, his wife Brooke, and their kids spend time each year in the Italian commune of Mombaldone, where they’ve renovated a home within a castle ruin and filled it with life and art.
El Día Perfecto by Francisco Adaro
Like much of 30A itself, Adaro’s work exists in a space between worlds. Relaxed but refined. Sophisticated yet playful. Familiar while still unique. “Like a flip-flop-wearing gaucho,” he says, smiling. “Somewhere else and also from here now.”
As his artistic journey continues to expand through exhibitions, international inspiration, and new collections, Adaro remains grounded in the same curiosity that first drew him to art as a child in Buenos Aires.
His process still begins with a line, a memory, a feeling, and, perhaps most importantly, a willingness to embrace joy wherever it appears.
“ART IS A MESSAGE IN A BOTTLE,” HE SAYS. “I WANT MY ART TO SPEAK TO YOU WITH FEELING WHEN YOU STUMBLE UPON IT.”
To experience Adaro’s whimsy, visit 21 Hub Lane, Watersound, Florida, 324461 at The Shops at The Hub on 30A. You can also visit Orleans Gallery at 603 Julia Street, New Orleans, to see and purchase more of his work. Follow @adaroart on Instagram.
A perfect day in Italy.
Luxury interiors brand Addison Ross has unveiled its most expansive launch to date with the Palm Beach Collection, inspired by the iconic Florida destination’s vibrant tropical aesthetic. Featuring the brand’s first-ever table linens, cutlery, salad servers, and luxury tote, the collection allows hosts to create a fully coordinated tablescape.
Available in lively blue and pink colorways, the designs blend British elegance with breezy coastal style.
To explore the collection, visit AddisonRoss.com.
courtesy of
Photo
Addison Ross
Palm Beach’s vivid colors, lush patterns, and effortless glamour have inspired us from the moment we arrived, and they guided every detail of this collection.
—DAVID AND SARAH ROSS, ADDISON ROSS CO-FOUNDERS
The Renaissance of Melissa Davis
Secret Garden 3 by Melissa Davis
31.5 × 25.5 inches
Right: Artist Melissa Davis
Photo by Brittany Godbee
Art Comes in Many Seasons
BY JORDAN STAGGS
ike waves stretching to the horizon or lapping at a whitesand beach, life’s patterns ebb and flow. For those who feel the call to create, some seasons are full of inspiration, while others can be a struggle to find it. Artist Melissa Davis is in an era of color and confidence as she releases her latest large-scale works on canvas, on display at Anne Hunter Galleries in Seaside, Florida.
This season of creativity flows for Davis after almost a decade of difficulty finding her way back to her art after the passing of her mother, she says. But routine, painting, yoga, and music are her daily doses of inspiration these days, along with the beautiful scenery of Northwest Florida’s beaches.
“Creating is so important to me; if I don’t do it, I get depressed,” she says. “I get inspired by a little bit of everything, and it’s my ritual. Just like with yoga, for example, there’s a branch of yoga called Dhāranā, which is ‘one-pointedness.’ It’s like when you’re laser-focused on something that you love to do, and everything else just goes away, so much so that you don’t even realize an hour has gone by. That happens when I paint.”
Mainly working in acrylics, with some pencil and other media mixed in, Davis says her latest works are inspired by different color palettes more than by any particular subjects. Music guides her hand as she works in the light-filled studio of her Seagrove Beach home, where her husband, Larry, helped build out a space for her to work, store supplies, and hang canvases to dry. “All the works in Seaside right now are titled after songs,” she admits, first pointing out a piece aptly titled Yellow, for the Coldplay song and the sunny brushstrokes that cover a periwinkle background with some vibrant lime, darker blue, and other hues creating an abstract world of color and movement.
TangledUpinYou
49 × 49 inches
Melissa Davis’s mixed media abstracts are inspired by color, music, and life.
er playlist is as varied as the palettes in the collection, with titles such as Tangled Up in You, Sailing, Rolling in the Deep, Landslide, and Lovely Day
Davis’s Seaside exhibitions have been on display this year as part of a special event during the Seaside Prize Weekend and a recent Seaside Art Walk, both of which attracted fresh eyes to her work in addition to friends and family who came out to support her. “The event after Seaside Prize was amazing,” she shares. “It was like a love fest! I sold more than half of everything that was shown, and I had probably a hundred people who came, which was very sweet.”
Also a yoga instructor, Davis finds solace in the movements of both her daily movement and her art. Both have been healing and centering throughout her life, though she says she is now also excited about learning new styles and exploring her painting from more technical perspectives as she improves. “I used to be known years ago as a painter of the horizon, even in a previous VIE article about ten years ago, and that kind of made me upset, in a way—like, ‘Don’t put baby in a box,’ you know?” She laughs. Since picking up art regularly again about three years ago, Davis has experimented with different media and styles, even taking weekly ceramics classes with the Cultural Arts Alliance and creating 150 pieces for her daughter’s wedding invitations, she says. “So those were very illustrative. But no, this new abstract work is kind of my jam, and I’ve worked with some incredible teachers in our country, because I decided if I’m going to do this, I want to work with some of the best.”
One of those teachers was Steven Aimone, whom Davis learned from at a workshop at Atlanta’s McCrae Gallery. She says that’s where she discovered working on larger scales, such as the 49 × 49-inch canvases in this collection, has been freeing in many ways. “It was the first time I worked big, and we were in this big, beautiful space. We used rolled canvas, put it out, then he would give the students props, and we’d just go at it. It was like the genie was let out of the bottle—I felt for a moment like, ‘Oh my gosh, this is how I want to work.’ I look at those first big pieces from a couple of years ago now, and I still think it’s fresh, it’s fun, and it definitely has my mark. The work I’m doing now is similar, but more layered and complex. I’d consider those earlier pieces like the underpaintings of what I’m creating now.”
We Love Because He First Loved Us 60 × 72 inches
tarting with pencil marks as the bottommost layer, Davis says she’ll often write words or draw symbols, song lyrics, scripture, or numerological patterns, depending on each piece or, if it’s a commission, meaningful things for the owner. “That goes underneath everything, and then I usually move to charcoal, and then I’ll start the paint layers. Even if you can’t see it, you’ve got all these things hidden within, and sometimes a little bit of it peeks through.”
Working with oil pastels is a newer development, she says, but Davis admits they’re a difficult medium to use in the Florida heat. Still, one might see some finishing layers of pastel atop her more recent paintings, adding a touch more color and texture here and there.
“I think everything in life converges, just like those layers,” she shares. “Like in yoga, the physicality and the connection are always there—connections to people, to yourself, to the earth, everything. It’s the same with painting, but
I’ve also seen abstract expressionism be compared to mathematics, because you’re making these rapid-fire decisions with the brush. It’s not exactly relaxing, because I’m always thinking about what’s next and constantly in motion, but it’s still cathartic.”
With her work at Anne Hunter Galleries, The Studio Gallery in Grayton Beach, and Tracery Interiors in Rosemary Beach, plus a new website, Davis is excited to welcome new viewers and collectors into the fold this year, and hopes to work with more interior designers in the future, as well. As for more pieces in the works, “I’m always working on multiple paintings at once,” she shares. Whatever she dreams up next, it’ll surely be perfectly in season.
Visit MelissaDavisArt.com and follow her on Instagram @balancegirl to see more, or stop by Anne Hunter Galleries in Seaside at 25 Central Square to see what’s on exhibit.
Photo by Brittany Godbee
Rip Curl x FARM Rio
For more than twenty-eight years, FARM Rio has inspired people around the world to dress in happiness. Their bold, expressive prints are rooted in the spirit of Rio de Janeiro, celebrating color, vibrance, and the lively energy of its people. Rip Curl, an Australian surf institution for more than five decades, continues to push the boundaries of performance surfwear with products designed for life in and around the water. This year, the two brands collaborated to release a collection like no other.
Highlights from the collection include technical summer wetsuits, a vibrant floral suitcase, a striped shirtand-pant set, and floral bikini sets. The FARM Rio x Rip Curl floral print appears across the collection, tying the pieces all together. View more from the collection and shop now at RipCurl.com.
Photo courtesy of Rip Curl
THE ART of SUmm ER
By JoRdAn STAggS PHoTograPHy coURTESy of cUraTE 30A
Apainting or photograph instills a new perspective in the viewer. Sometimes it’s one that was meticulously curated by the artist as a visual story to behold. Other times, the viewer may see something entirely unique to them. This is the beauty of creating and consuming art; no two experiences with a piece are ever the same. What a thrill to know that humanity has created such a form of communication that no machine can ever truly master. This summer, owner Gary Handler and the team at Curate 30a Gallery in Rosemary Beach, Florida, have pulled together a selection of original paintings that evoke the distinct sense of summertime. Feast your eyes on works by acclaimed artists and soak in the sunshine, patriotic pride, and nostalgia of beach days and waterfront contemplation as you peruse this collection.
“This is The beauT y of creaTing and consuming arT; no T wo experiences wiTh a piece are ever The same.”
Heaven by Steven Quartly 48 × 48 inches, oil on canvas
Plaid Columns
Artist Rob Matre, AKA Plaid Columns, is a gallerist, musician, and mixed media artist based in Atlanta. His pseudonym first appeared as a band name in the 1990s, but today is the signature of his often brightly colored photographymeets-paint works depicting nostalgic moments, famous musicians and athletes, maps and scenes from the Southeast, and sunny days on 30A beaches.
Josef Kote
Described as “symphonies of light and color,” Kote’s gorgeous artworks in this collection depict serene days by the shore and sunlight reflected off the waves. There’s nothing more perfectly summery than a walk along a sandy path to a pristine beach and gently rolling waves, and you can practically hear the gulls cry when you behold this artist’s work.
stePhen harlan
Harlan’s Water’s Edge collection is quintessential for those who want a summertime or nautical vibe without the typical “beachy” look. His highcontrast backgrounds with neon and bright colors give a pop art feel that still evokes the coast. Harlan’s digital artwork has been featured at high-level galleries across the United States and Europe.
steven Quartly
This artist of serene landscapes and hopeful images has been painting since he was thirteen years old. With a sense of beauty yet a touch of what he describes as “mystery” or “melancholy” hidden beneath the surface, Quartly’s work is both thoughtful and touching. His beach scenes and American flag images round out a collection to celebrate summer and beyond.
simon Kenevan
London-born artist Simon Kenevan is also inspired by the shore and the waves beyond it. After growing up on the southern coast of England, he worked aboard a fishing vessel for some time. He later bought his own fourteen-foot rowboat and entrenched himself in the practice of meditating on nature’s wonder, beauty, and power. That majesty and love come through in his works today, with sunlight, color, and texture guiding the viewer to worlds both near and far.
Seaside by Plaid Columns
30 × 24 inches, mixed media on wood panel
Catching Time by Simon Kenevan 36 × 72 inches, oil on canvas
Somewhere It’s Winter by Stephen Harlan 7.5 × 10 inches, digital artwork
Visitors to Florida’s 30A area can discover these and other artists during special events at Curate 30a Gallery in the heart of Rosemary Beach throughout the year.
Some upcoming 2026 exhibitions include: JohnMark Gleadow from June 23–26, Simon Kenevan from July 8–15, and Steven Quartly from July 27–August 5.
Visit Curate30a.com to learn more, inquire about sales, and see more featured artists. IT ’s Time To celebraTe summer!
As It Unfolds by Josef Kote 48 × 48 inches, acrylic on canvas
YOUR HOME SHOULD
CUSTOM GLASS TILE MOSAIC BY SICIS OF ITALY X JONAH ALLEN PHOTOGRAPHY DEPICTING THE COASTAL DUNE LAKE OUTFLOW IN GRAYTON BEACH, FLORIDA
A new chapter for Caribbean hospitality is taking shape on the shores of North Caicos. Scheduled to open in 2029, Anantara Turks and Caicos Resort & Residences will introduce the luxury brand to the region with a collection of seventy-eight branded residences and beachfront villas positioned along the island’s Sandy Point coastline. Designed by RAD and Meyer Davis, the low-density development embraces the natural rhythm of North Caicos, known as the “Garden Island” for its lush landscapes and beaches. Wellness, nature, and a sense of place guide the experience, from botanical-inspired spa treatments and outdoor pursuits to dining shaped by ingredients grown on-site. Just a short journey from Miami, the destination offers a more secluded side of Turks and Caicos, where life unfolds at a slower pace, and the horizon feels endless.
Photo courtesy of Minor Hotels
The Rhine River, flowing 760 miles from the Swiss Alps to the North Sea in the Netherlands, has been an artery of commerce and civilization throughout history. Today, it retains its title as Europe’s busiest waterway, a crucial route for cargo shipping and a bucket-list destination for river cruise travelers seeking to marvel at its medieval castles, historic towns, and terraced vineyards.
Whether you choose to head upstream from Amsterdam to Basel or downstream on the opposite itinerary, this is the route most traveled by luxury river cruises to capture highlights along the Rhine. Of course, no matter which way you sail, there will be plenty of soft pretzels, artisanal sausages, Riesling wines, and expertly crafted beers.
CASTLES ON THE RHINE
“Candlelight and wine, castles on the Rhine” are the famous lyrics from “Thanks for the Memory,” a ballad crooned by entertainer Bob Hope.
While epic sights line the entire river, the highest concentration of castles rises along the Rhine Gorge, a scenic 40-mile stretch between Rüdesheim and Koblenz where the Mosel River meets the Rhine. This section is so spectacular that it has earned UNESCO World Heritage Site status. You will pass over 40 castles and fortresses on this section of the Rhine, averaging nearly one every mile! Highlights include the imposing Marksburg Castle (the only hill castle on the Middle Rhine to escape destruction) and the romantic ruins of Rheinfels Castle, both in Germany.
The open-air sundeck of a river ship is a fantastic perch for castle-counting, and on board the Uniworld S.S. Antoinette, the day is marked by a festive food tradition called a Fruhschoppen. This pub-fare brunch features a variety of chef-made sausages, soft pretzels, potato salad, sauerkraut with a selection of mustards, and other German and Austrian specialties. The authentic tastes of the region, perfectly paired with crisp local beers and dry Riesling, enhance the eye-popping experience of watching
The village of Boppard, Germany, in the Upper Middle Rhine Valley
Top:
Uniworld’s S.S. Antoinette
Bottom: Marksburg Castle
a parade of ancient castles glide by and hearing their history recounted by cruise manager Kerstin Taschke. Her descriptions paint a vivid picture of the medieval archbishops, robber barons, and emperors who once controlled these waters, many of whom extracted tolls from passing merchant vessels.
Sailing through the narrowest stretch of the river, named Lorelei for the mythical singing mermaids said to lure sailors to perish on the rocky shore, we gained even more respect for the navigational skills of the S.S. Antoinette’s captain and crew.
STORYBOOK VILLAGES
Along the Rhine, you’ll pass the borderlands between France and Germany with a visit to the French province of Alsace. A world-class wine destination thanks to its sunny microclimate, this enchanting region of rolling hills is home to quaint villages that seem untouched by the passage of time.
The town of Eguisheim, famed for its winding cobblestone streets and colorful half-timbered houses festooned with flower boxes , is said to have inspired the village architecture depicted in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast
For a taste of modern-day magic, sample a slice of Kugelhopf, an Alsatian cake topped with almonds and powdered sugar.
Kaysersberg, another architectural gem of Alsace, offers a more rugged, dramatic beauty, with the ruins of a thirteenth-century castle towering above the town’s Renaissance-era mansions. Throughout history, this town has changed hands four
“THIS IS THE ROUTE MOST TRAVELED BY LUXURY RIVER CRUISES TO CAPTURE HIGHLIGHTS ALONG THE RHINE.”
Photo by Deutschland Abgelichtet/Shutterstock
times between Germany and France. Today, its quiet squares and gentle chime of church bells set the scene to learn that this was the birthplace of Nobel Peace Prize laureate Albert Schweitzer.
TERRACED VINEYARDS
The Rhine and its tributaries form the backbone of German viticulture and wine making. Riesling is the king here, and while it’s a single grape variety, it is an incredible
Castle Vollrads in Oestrich-Winkel, Germany
Boppard, Germany
WINE “CANDLELIGHT ” CASTLES AND ON THE RHINE
LYRICS FROM “THANKS FOR THE MEMORY,”
BY BOB HOPE
The Castle Vollrads excursion includes a wine tasting and tour (opposite top and bottom).
chameleon, changing its expression with the terroir of soil and climate. Styles—based on sweetness—range from bone dry (Trocken) to off-dry (Halbtrocken), medium-sweet late harvest wines (Spätlese), and super-sweet (Auslese). Alsatian Rieslings, by contrast, are known for being completely dry with more complex floral and citrus notes. To help guests navigate the Rieslings and other local wines on the impressive onboard list, the ship’s sommelier hosts a pre-dinner overview detailing the featured wines.
Fancy a red wine? There’s a silky and delicate German pinot noir called Spatburgunder. Speaking of grapes, one of the excursions ashore took us to a vinegar tasting and cellar tour to learn about the centuries-old “sour art” of turning grapes into fine vinegars, some aged for decades.
HISTORIC CITY SIGHTS
While picturesque towns and farmlands offer a pastoral pace on shore, along the way, there are several vibrant riverfront cities to explore. The approach to Cologne by river is impressive, dominated by the twin spires of the Cologne Cathedral piercing the sky. This gothic masterpiece, which took over six centuries to complete, is bathed in the ethereal, colored light of spectacular stained-glass windows.
Another cathedral for the ages dominates the cityscape of Strasbourg, known as the “Crossroads of Europe,” with its blend of French style and German charm.
The breathtaking gothic Strasbourg Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame), this one constructed from pretty pink sandstone, was for centuries the world’s tallest building. Inside, visitors gather to watch the Renaissance-era Astronomical Clock orchestrate a complex, animated display of mechanical figures alongside a striking pillar of angels.
What time is it? Time to discover what’s on the menu in Strasbourg! Especially terrific to try is the Tarte Flambée, a paper-thin, crispy flatbread topped with crème fraîche, onions, and bacon. Paired with a crisp glass of Gewürztraminer, it provides the ultimate toast to Strasbourg’s enduring Franco-German heritage.
Middle Left: Cologne Cathedral
Middle Right: Marksburg Castle
MENU OF LOCAL DELICACIES
No matter where the day’s adventures take you, the cultural immersion continues in the elegant dining room of S.S. Antoinette. One of the hallmarks of Uniworld’s cruises is a dedication to bringing destinations to life through culinary programs that translate the local geography into menus inspired by the region. Since this journey takes guests through the Netherlands, Germany, and France, the menu morphs to honor the taste traditions of each region. From morning to night, the ship’s culinary team presents a taste tour of the Rhine that showcases the art of preserving and celebrating culinary heritage.
The crown jewel of comfort food must be the schnitzel, a traditional classic of Central Europe. This tender cutlet of veal, pounded thin and breaded, is sauteed until the crust is a crispy golden brown. Finished with a squeeze of lemon and served with warm potato salad, chilled cucumbers, and lingonberry jam, schnitzel is most often paired with a mineral-forward glass of dry Riesling.
Restaurant de Versailles aboard S.S. Antoinette
The S.S. Antoinette Grand Suite
A PALACE AMONG CASTLES
Uniworld’s river ship, S.S. Antoinette, is a floating palace in its own right, exuding historical grandeur with design inspired by France’s eighteenth-century golden age. The dazzling centerpiece of the two-story grand foyer, a huge sapphire blue crystal chandelier, sets the tone for the ship’s beautifully appointed suites and lounges with exquisite fabric wall coverings, classical furnishings, and original fine art. There’s even a small spa and an indoor swimming pool on board where you can take a dip and sip the beverage of your choice as the scenery glides by the floor-to-ceiling windows.
Celebrating its milestone fiftieth anniversary, Uniworld highlights each voyage with a special “Golden Party,” an evening of elegance from the menu to the music, where guests dress in gold. What a great way to cap off a river cruise journey, weaving luxury, history, gastronomy, and discovery all along the Rhine.
Visit Uniworld.com to discover this and other luxury river cruise journeys.
The S.S. Antoinette’s Salon du Grand Trianon
For more than two decades, Louis Vuitton City Guide has served as a trusted companion for sophisticated travelers seeking authentic experiences around the globe. This season, the House releases updated editions for eight major destinations, including Paris, featuring exclusive new content, illustrated historical insights, and profiles of influential locals. From hidden gardens and neighborhood cafés to celebrated cultural landmarks, the guide offers an elevated perspective on one of the world’s most beloved cities.
To discover the latest City Guide collection, visit LouisVuitton.com.
Photo courtesy of Louis Vuitton
A true barometer of taste and singular arbiter of style.
—LOUIS VUITTON
WHERE HISTORY LIVES ON
INSIDE A STAY AT LYRA NEW ORLEANS
BY KATIE OGLETREE PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF DEAR VALENTINE
There are few cities in the world that capture the imagination quite like New Orleans. From the moment you arrive, you’re swept into a vibrant blend of music, culture, history, and celebration that seems to spill from every street corner. Jazz drifts through the air, colorful balconies overlook bustling avenues, and the scent of Creole cuisine tempts you from every doorway. Whether it’s a lively afternoon in the French Quarter, a spontaneous street performance, or a late-night stroll beneath glowing lanterns, New Orleans has a way of making visitors feel like they’re part of something special.
The city’s energy is unique. Every neighborhood has its own personality, every building tells a story, and every day brings a new opportunity for adventure. It’s a place where history and modern life intertwine effortlessly, where you don’t care if celebrations go on for hours, and where visitors quickly find themselves embracing the local traditions, even with a little powdered sugar on their face from those famous beignets.
During this trip, we found ourselves spending a lot of time in the Garden District. It remains one of the most recognized residential neighborhoods in the United States. Following the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, an influx of wealthy American settlers arrived in New Orleans and sought to establish their own residential enclave outside the predominantly Creole French Quarter. What was once the Livaudais Plantation was subdivided in the 1830s, giving rise to the Garden District.
The neighborhood quickly became known for its grand residences, many of which were built in Greek Revival, Italianate, Victorian, and Gothic Revival styles. Unlike the densely packed streets of the French Quarter, these homes sat on expansive lots, surrounded by lush gardens, which inspired the neighborhood’s name. Wealthy merchants, businessmen, and prominent families commissioned elaborate mansions that reflected their success and the growing influence of American culture in the city.
Within that district is a home unlike any other. Stepping inside Lyra for the first time, what stood out most wasn’t simply the property’s visual appeal— although the design is undeniably striking—but the
way the space made me feel. We were immediately greeted by jazz music playing throughout the home. The small sconces spaced along the hallway walls were lit, giving us an immediate sense of home.
Natural light pours through the windows. The many textures created warmth and depth, and every room balances sophistication with comfort. The colorful accents and bold design choices bring each room to life. Cheerful hues, eclectic furnishings, and artistic touches created stylish and relaxing spaces. Unlike most vacation rentals, Lyra trades the neutrals and “safe” choices for memorable details you’d never expect. The living room was a particularly memorable detail to me. With the color mixing of the blue chairs with coral fringe bottoms, the striped curtains, the muted lime-green rug, and the darkgreen velvet bench under the windows, it was like those exact pieces and colors were meant only for this exact room. In many homes filled with beautiful antique pieces, there’s an unspoken feeling of “look but don’t touch.” Here, the curation creates the
“To travel is to be romanced by the world.”
—MELISSA SHELTON, DEAR VALENTINE
exact opposite experience. Every object feels intentionally placed to be part of the home’s story, and your experience within it is meant to be lived and enjoyed.
Lyra is a nine-bedroom residence offering a mix of king, queen, and twin beds. It also has eight and a half bathrooms, with that half bath putting a lot of full bathrooms I’ve seen to shame! It sleeps eighteen people more than comfortably and even offers a private plunge pool.
Behind the beautiful home is the team at Dear Valentine, a boutique hospitality brand founded by Melissa Shelton, a design-industry executive turned entrepreneur whose vision was to create accommodations unlike traditional vacation rentals and more like beautifully curated residences. Before launching Dear Valentine, Shelton built an impressive career in the global design world. Inspired by her passion for travel, architecture, and meaningful guest experiences, she left the corporate world to create a hospitality company centered on design, locality, and storytelling.
Founded in New Orleans, Dear Valentine approaches hospitality through the lens of preservation and design. Shelton and her team manage ten properties across
New Orleans. Rather than developing conventional hotel spaces, the company focuses on restoring historic properties and transforming them into immersive stays that reflect the character of their neighborhoods. The brand collaborates with local designers, artisans, and makers to create spaces that celebrate both luxury and a strong sense of place. In cities like New Orleans, historic residences help create the distinctive sense of place that draws visitors from around the world. By investing in preservation rather than replacement, communities can honor their heritage while giving these structures a new purpose for modern living and hospitality.
At the heart of Shelton’s philosophy is the belief that where you stay should be part of the travel experience itself. Dear Valentine properties are designed to help guests connect more deeply with a destination, whether through thoughtfully
“By investing in preservation rather than replacement, communities can honor their heritage while giving these structures a new purpose for modern living and hospitality.”
restored architecture, locally inspired interiors, or the feeling of temporarily living like a resident rather than a tourist. This approach is especially evident in New Orleans, where Dear Valentine’s historic homes, such as Lyra and Luna House, blend the city’s architectural heritage with vibrant, contemporary design.
“To travel is to be romanced by the world,” says Melissa Shelton of Dear Valentine.
As cities continue to evolve, opportunities to stay in a place like Lyra remind guests why preserving historic homes is important. These
buildings connect us to the past while allowing new generations to experience their beauty and stories firsthand. For travelers seeking a destination filled with character, history, and unforgettable experiences, New Orleans deserves a place at the top of the list. And for those looking to immerse themselves in the city’s distinctive spirit, Lyra offers the perfect home away from home, a place where the charm of the Garden District and the magic of New Orleans come together to create a stay you’ll remember for years to come.
To book your stay, visit DearValentine.co.
Each Flight Mode piece captures the spirit of adventure, especially discernible in the collection’s hooded bomber jackets, cardigans, flight jackets, and gilets crafted from exceptional leather. They’re offered in a range of refined finishes, from supple, grained, and glossy to perforated or velvety soft, and rendered in an array of elegant neutral tones, each design embodying understated sophistication.
at LouisVuitton.com.
Louis Vuitton Unveils Flight Mode
Inspired by the Art of Travel, a concept dear to Louis Vuitton, the Flight Mode collection showcases timeless, sophisticated creations. Ready-to-wear items, leather goods, shoes, and accessories continue to enhance the wardrobe of the modern-day globetrotter. The bags are both practical and stylish; the looks are crafted from comfortable materials and designed to appear dynamic, creating the perfect silhouette. They’re ideal for any destination, whether you’re escaping to the valleys of California, strolling through a verdant park, or wandering along the shores of an azure lagoon.
THE
HEART OF ALYS
BEACH
BY CAITLYN BURRUS
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF ALYS BEACH
Picture this: palm trees guiding the streets, white architecture stretching along the skyline, and your first taste of peace and serenity in a while. It’s distinctly Alys Beach.
Mornings begin with coffee runs and bike rides. Afternoons unfold between boutique shopping and fresh lunches. As the sun begins to set, families gather in the Amphitheatre, friends linger over cocktails, and the glow of the town’s iconic white buildings reflects the last light of day across the streets and courtyards.
At the center of it all is Alys Beach Town Center, a vibrant hub that continues to evolve alongside one of the Gulf Coast’s most distinctive communities.
Designed around the principles of New Urbanism, Alys Beach is a town where life can be lived on foot. Here, pedestrian pathways connect homes, parks, restaurants, and shops, creating an environment where residents and visitors naturally cross paths throughout the day. The Town Center serves as the anchor for that experience, bringing together dining, retail, wellness, entertainment, and community gathering spaces within an intentionally walkable setting.
More than a place to shop or dine, the Town Center has become the social heartbeat of Alys Beach. It is where neighbors meet in the mornings for coffee, where visitors discover a favorite restaurant, and where community events bring people together year-round. The open-air Amphitheatre hosts concerts, celebrations, events, and seasonal gatherings, such as 4th of July fireworks and holiday photos with Santa, creating a lively backdrop that reinforces the town’s emphasis on connection and shared experiences.
Over the past several years, the district has steadily expanded, welcoming an impressive collection of merchants that reflect the thoughtful lifestyle for which Alys Beach has become known. A stylish curation of boutiques such as Barefoot Princess, Holiday Shop, Parasol, SummerStory, NEAT, and MERIT by Willow offer everything from resort-ready apparel to fine jewelry and home accents. At the same time, national brands including Alo Yoga and KREWE bring a fresh perspective to the coastal shopping experience. The Alys Shoppe further captures the spirit of the community with curated apparel, accessories, and exclusive Alys Beach collections
“DESIGNED AROUND THE PRINCIPLES OF NEW URBANISM, ALYS BEACH IS A TOWN WHERE LIFE CAN BE LIVED ON FOOT.”
Fonville Press Market + Café
THE MERCHANTS OF ALYS BEACH
“YET WHAT MAKES TOWN CENTER SPECIAL IS NOT SIMPLY THE RESTAURANTS, SHOPS, OR AMENITIES. IT IS THE WAY THESE SPACES COME TOGETHER TO CREATE A SENSE OF COMMUNITY.”
inspired by the town’s timeless aesthetic. A new merchant, California-based apparel brand Rowan, will also open this summer, bringing timeless, responsibly made classics.
Dining remains one of Town Center’s greatest draws. Whether stopping into Fonville Press Market + Café for a morning pastry and coffee, grabbing a handcrafted treat from Charlie’s Delights, or settling in for dinner at George’s, The Citizen, or O-Ku, guests will find an array of culinary experiences that celebrate quality ingredients and a welcoming atmosphere. Just down the lane, Raw & Juicy offers fresh juices, coffee, smoothies, and an organic menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Each venue offers its own unique take on coastal living, from casual gatherings with friends to elevated evenings out.
The excitement continues this summer with the anticipated opening of Indaco, bringing its beloved Italian cuisine and communal dining style to Alys Beach. Featuring handcrafted pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and meals designed for sharing, the addition promises to further enrich the area’s growing culinary scene.
Raw & Juicy Alys Beach
Indaco Italian Food & Wine
The Citizen Coastal Tavern
The district’s continued growth reflects a larger milestone for the community as a whole. With the recent completion of The Silva, Alys Beach has finalized its collection of luxury amenities. Located alongside the Nature Preserve, The Silva introduces a new resort-style pool, restaurant and bar, event lawn, and The Summerhouse pavilion, providing another beautiful gathering place for residents and vacation rental guests. It joins Caliza Pool, ZUMA Wellness Center, the Alys Beach homeowner-exclusive Beach Club, and the town’s extensive network of parks, pathways, and green spaces.
Yet what makes Town Center special is not simply the restaurants, shops, or amenities. It is the way these spaces come together to create a sense of community. An evening concert becomes a family tradition. A quick visit to browse a boutique turns into an afternoon spent exploring, and a stroll through the town makes you realize that you don’t want to leave.
In many ways, the Town Center embodies the essence of Alys Beach. Beautifully designed, sophisticated, and welcoming, it is a town where everyday moments feel completely intentional, and a place where community remains at the forefront.
As Alys Beach continues to grow, its Town Center remains the heart of the town, a gathering place where residents and visitors alike can experience the lifestyle that has made this coastal destination unlike any other.
A PLACE WHERE LIFE IS DEFINED.
To read more about Alys Beach Town Center, visit AlysBeach.com. Follow @alysbeach on Instagram to see more of this stunning Gulf Front town.
Photo by Kurt Lischka
Stay tuned for Fourth of July concerts, fireworks, and more events!
AUTHENTIC ! WALTON AWAITS
EVENTS AND EXPLORATION FOR SUMMER 2026
Awide variety of shopping, dining, and activities await in Authentic Walton, Florida. Encompassing Paxton, DeFuniak Springs, and Freeport, these communities are filled with incredible historic treasures and unique landscapes you can only find in Florida. Friendly locals and businesses take pride in their area and ensure each experience here just feels genuine, with a neighborly vibe that makes all visitors feel welcome.
Take a walk or bike tour past the beautiful Victorian homes and the buildings of the former Chautauqua Assembly. Discover the world-class E.O. Wilson Biophilia Center, nestled within a giant nature preserve. Explore Morrison Springs, a 161-acre park highlighted by a crystal-clear, spring-fed pool that attracts dive enthusiasts, eco-tourists, and casual swimmers alike.
You’ll find a place that perfectly balances the charm of its colorful past with great amenities and a vibrant culture, all still within easy reach of the stunning local beaches. Be sure to check out these events and more when you visit AuthenticWalton.com to see what’s coming up!
Story and photography courtesy of Walton County Tourism -
JUNE 26, JULY 31
T Tim Jackson’s Storytellers Tour at the Chautauqua Theater
Step inside the historic Chautauqua Theater for an evening of unforgettable stories, music, and Southern charm with Tim Jackson’s Storytellers Tour. Known for his engaging stage presence and authentic storytelling, Jackson brings audiences on a journey through the people, places, and traditions that define life in the South. Each performance blends humor, heart, history, and live entertainment, creating an intimate and memorable experience that appeals to visitors and locals alike. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering the tour for the first time, every show promises a unique night of connection and inspiration.
1ST
& 3RD SATURDAY OF EVERY MONTH
H Hammock Bay Farmers Market
Discover fresh flavors and local treasures at the Hammock Bay Farmers Market in Freeport, held on the first and third Saturday of each month. This growing community event features a variety of local farmers, food vendors, artisans, and specialty merchants offering everything from farm-fresh produce to handcrafted products. With a welcoming atmosphere and a beautiful neighborhood setting, the market provides the perfect opportunity to shop local, connect with neighbors, and enjoy a relaxed morning with family and friends.
EVERY SATURDAY, MARCH-NOVEMBER
M Main Street DeFuniak Springs Farmers Market
Spend your Saturday mornings exploring the Main Street DeFuniak Springs Farmers Market, where fresh produce, handcrafted goods, baked treats, and local specialties come together in the heart of downtown. Held weekly from March through November, the market offers visitors the opportunity to meet local farmers, artisans, and makers, support small businesses, and enjoy a vibrant community atmosphere. Whether you’re shopping for fresh ingredients, unique gifts, or simply looking for a relaxing way to start the weekend, the Farmers Market is a beloved local tradition that showcases the best of Walton County.
“You’ll find a place that perfectly balances the charm of its colorful past with great amenities and a vibrant culture.”
JULY 4
DBPA Fourth of July Celebration
Celebrate Independence Day at the annual DeFuniak Springs Fourth of July Celebration around the historic Lake DeFuniak, where small-town charm and patriotic tradition come together in the heart of Walton County. Hosted by the DeFuniak Business and Professional Association, this beloved community event offers a classic Fourth of July experience in one of Florida’s most unique settings. Guests can enjoy an evening filled with familyfriendly activities, local vendors, and a festive atmosphere surrounding the lake. The night concludes with a dazzling fireworks display over Lake DeFuniak, creating a picture-perfect reflection across the water and an unforgettable holiday moment.
“Spend some time exploring one of Authentic Walton’s favorite community hangouts!”
JULY 17-19
W Watermelon Festival at Props Brewery Hammock Bay
Summer isn’t summer without watermelon! Props Brewery at Hammock Bay continues its fruit festival series with a weekend of watermelon this July, featuring local vendors, live music, food trucks, a petting zoo, and craft brews from Props. Come walk through the booths, cool off with delicious watermelon, and spend some time exploring one of Authentic Walton’s favorite community hangouts!
JOIN IN ON THE FUN OF YEAR-ROUND AUTHENTIC WALTON EVENTS. FROM HOLIDAY CELEBRATIONS AND HOME TOURS TO WINE TASTINGS AND LIVE ENTERTAINMENT, THERE’S SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE. IT’S A GREAT WAY TO TAKE A LITTLE BREAK FROM THE BEACH AND DISCOVER ALL THE SIGHTS, TASTES, AND ACTIVITIES IN THESE WELCOMING COMMUNITIES.
Le monde
GOES ROUND AND ROUND
Few hotels can claim a story spanning nearly two centuries. In Baur au Lac: A Legacy by the Lake, Assouline explores the rich history of Baur au Lac, a Zurich property that has remained in the same family since opening its doors in 1844. Written by James Reginato, the volume traces the hotel’s evolution through archival imagery, contemporary photography, and stories of the guests, employees, and family members who have shaped its legacy. Set within a private park overlooking Lake Zurich and the Swiss Alps, Baur au Lac has welcomed everyone from royalty and artists to world leaders and cultural icons. The result is both a tribute to a legendary hotel and a portrait of the enduring appeal of genuine hospitality.
View over the Schanzengraben bridge toward Marguita restaurant and the Baur au Lac Park gardens. For more information, visit Assouline.com.
Photo courtesy of Baur au Lac
CHURCHILL OAKS
THE HEART OF COMMUNITY
Creating the Perfect Summer Soda
ByJordan
ummertime is for picnics, camping, beach days, and festive events with family and friends. No celebration, big or small, would be complete without your favorite snacks and beverages to bring along or enjoy during relaxed days at home. Indulgence doesn’t need to wreck your health, though. For Nicole Bernard Dawes, who grew up around the snack food industry, it was frustrating to find very few options on supermarket shelves that didn’t contain vast amounts of added sugar or other potentially harmful ingredients.
As the daughter of the Cape Cod Potato Chips cofounder Steve Bernard and Lynn Bernard, who owned and operated a successful natural-food grocery store in Harwich, Massachusetts, Dawes has spent much of her career combining the knowledge she learned from both businesses from a young age. She officially joined the family business after spending the first part of her career as a food and beverage management consultant, but never felt truly satisfied with the job, even though she says it was a valuable experience. When her dad bought Cape Cod back from Anheuser-Busch in 1996, Dawes felt the pull to come home and help him rebuild the brand. Still, her passion lay in finding a way to combine her mother’s health-focused ingredients with her father’s entrepreneurial spirit.
“THE TEAM’S FOCUS HAS BEEN on GREAT TASTE and HEALTHY INGREDIENTS.”
“It’s things like being a child in my mom’s store and trying to recreate recipes people loved in a healthier way—that led me first to creating the Late July brand with my dad in 2003,” Dawes says. The organic, non-GMO tortilla chip brand has since expanded to include a range of flavors and multigrain options. Her dream of stocking grocery store shelves with healthier snack options became a reality as Late July chips became available at major retailers around the US, including Walmart, Kroger, Whole Foods, and more. She sold Late July to the Campbell’s Soup Company in 2018 and pivoted to a new category: soft drinks.
“Very frequently, you see stores combine snacks and drinks in the same aisle,” Dawes explains. “I noticed in the past decade or so that while the rest of the store seemed to be getting more and more healthy, organic options with less plastic packaging and better ingredients, the beverage section wasn’t.”
That leads us to Nixie Beverage Company, the brand Dawes launched with her team in December of 2019, aiming to provide a clean, health-conscious sparkling water option. Looking beyond the typical lime or berry flavors that many brands sell, the Nixie team wanted to create a range of organic options that actually taste good, now including Strawberry Hibiscus, Lime Ginger, Black Cherry Lime, Grapefruit Tangerine, and many more.
Despite Dawes’s expertise and previous branding success, it wasn’t the smoothest journey, as launching just as the COVID-19 pandemic struck the world was a harrowing challenge. As the founder says, though, “Every brand was experiencing the same disruption and challenges.” It didn’t make the pitfalls of production stalls and distribution holdups easier to deal with, but it meant the competition was in the same boat. Thankfully, already having experienced members on the
Nixie team—many of whom came from Late July— and solid partnerships with distributors and retailers meant the burgeoning sparkling water brand was able to stay afloat and emerge from the pandemic era with national distribution intact.
Since its launch, Nixie’s unique flavors, organic ingredients, and colorful, attractive branding have made it a leader in the sparkling water sector. From the beginning, the team’s focus has been on great taste and healthy ingredients. Fans around the country have loved the array of options and creating their own recipes for cocktails and mocktails using the sparkling beverages, especially refreshingly cool, perfect-for-summer ideas.
“The Strawberry Hibiscus flavor makes a great summer cocktail with no additional sugar,” Dawes says of her favorite mixer option.
But the most exciting part of the industry-disrupting journey is still unfolding. In 2024, Nixie went one step further in shaking up the soft drink world when it launched its first Organic Zero Sugar Soda. Starting with Classic Cola, Ginger Ale, and Root Beer flavors, then adding Cream Soda in 2025, Dawes and her team explored ways to give consumers the sodas they love with zero sugar and all-organic ingredients. “If I didn’t go into the factory and make it myself, I’d have a hard time believing it was possible,” Dawes admits. “We’ve really tried to focus on being very healthy with the best flavor, and I want people to be able to experience that classic taste in a certified organic soda.”
This year, Nixie launched two new Organic Zero Sugar Soda flavors, rounding out the lineup with some exciting, delicious new options. The favorite so far may be the Strawberry Cream soda, which Dawes admits was developed “really just because I wanted it.” She got the idea from combining Nixie Strawberry Hibiscus sparkling water and Cream Soda, and the result, as she says, “Is pink, pretty, and fun to drink!” Its mix of cream soda and organic strawberry gives the drinker a perfect indulgent yet light, refreshing experience.
A classic Cherry Cola flavor was also added. “The Cherry Cola came on the heels of our Classic Cola being our number-one seller,” she says. “We wanted to offer another option from that same classic, conventional product. We’ve sourced cherries for other products, and I love them, so it was a no-brainer.”
This summer, Nixie is hitting the road to share the newest Organic Zero Sugar Soda flavors with activations around the New York City area, the Hamptons, and at events such as the Newport Folk Festival in late July— extra fitting, as Steve and Lynn Bernard met at the festival in the 1960s. “It’s held at a national park and feels like a very intimate experience,” Dawes shares. “We love partnering with that event each year.”
More activations along the West Coast are planned for later in 2026, while in the meantime, Dawes is also looking forward to spending some muchrevered downtime on a family vacation. Her favorite destination, she says, is “anywhere with a beach!”
That love of the water, plus her nickname, Nicky, are what led to naming her beverage brand, she reveals. “A nixie in folklore is a water sprite, so it’s sort of a combination of that and my nickname. I really thrive by the coast and loved growing up on Cape Cod and vacationing in Florida.”
While being the CEO of a quickly growing brand is never easy, Dawes says she has always had her father’s entrepreneurial mind, and remaining very positive throughout all of life and business’s ups and downs is what keeps her excited about what she does. “Being a CEO and being fully responsible for everything is seven days a week, 365 days a year,” she says, “so I think it’s very important to stay positive and to recharge when you can.” To anyone who has a dream of building their own brand, especially in the food and beverage industry, she advises, “I would always tell someone if you’re truly passionate, follow your heart. Start small and figure out what works and what makes your brand special, then work on growing and scaling your business.”
From sitting on the counter of her mother’s grocery store as a child to creating and helming multimillion-dollar brands, Nicole Bernard Dawes is a powerhouse with a mission, and we can’t wait to see what she comes up with next!
“DAWES is a POWERHOUSE with a MISSION, and WE CAN’T WAIT to SEE WHAT SHE COMES UP with NEXT!”
The newly reimagined restaurant features a sleek, cosmopolitan design, including a tenseat sushi bar, oceanfront ambience, and Nobu’s signature Japanese cuisine with South American influences.
Explore the rest of the resort at EauResortandSpa.com.
A Bite of Nobu Manalapan
Nobu Manalapan is now officially open as a permanent fixture at Eau Resort & Spa.
Following a recent renovation, the globally renowned restaurant by Chef Nobu Matsuhisa has officially taken over the former Polpo Palm Beach space, introducing an elevated new dining destination in Manalapan. Nobu Manalapan further cements Eau Resort & Spa as one of Palm Beach’s premier culinary destinations, pairing the globally recognized Nobu experience with an intimate oceanfront setting just steps from the Atlantic.
SPEND THE DAY WITH U S O N SCENIC HIGHWAY30A!
30A General Store
30A Yellow Fly Trading Co.
Adaro Art
Anthea Le Jardin
Fiddle Haus
Frankie’s Bike Shop
Maria Heckscher Salon
Palms
Posh Polished Nail Salon by Aika
Salt Air
Sculpt Studio
Sunset Shoes & Lifestyles
The Lens Bar
The Maddie Hatter
Vivo Spa
Fusion Art Glass
A unique village-style destination awaits you as local shopkeepers carefully craft every experience, from art to apparel, gifts, beauty, fitness, and more. Shop with us, then enjoy alfresco dining next door at The Big Chill 30A!
THE SUMMER MOVIE SEASON IS SHAPING UP TO BE ONE OF THE BIGGEST IN RECENT MEMORY.
The summer movie season is shaping up to be one of the biggest in recent memory. The coming months will bring a packed slate of highly anticipated releases, including blockbuster sequels, franchise reboots, family-friendly adventures, and ambitious new films from some of Hollywood’s most acclaimed directors. Whether you’re eager for superhero action, animated favorites, epic adventures, or original stories, there will be no shortage of reasons to head to the theater.
As studios look to bring audiences back in full force, this summer is packed with films designed for the biggest screens possible.
HERE’S A LOOK AT THE STANDOUT RELEASES SET TO DEFINE THE SEASON AND SPARK CONVERSATION ALL SUMMER LONG.
SCARY MOVIE (JUNE 5)
Now this is the movie I’m most excited about! Something about this film and the cast feels so familiar. And speaking of the actors, the Wayans, Anna Faris, and Regina Hall (Love Brenda) are back! There would be no other way to bring this film back. The plot follows the gang twenty-six years after they survived a masked killer, only to find themselves targeted again. It’s a sequel, reboot, and parody all at once. I love the fact that this movie franchise doesn’t just make fun of one horror movie, but multiple ones. A few that we can expect references from this new one are: M3GAN, Smile, Longlegs, Get Out, The Substance, and the modern Scream movies. Many of these parodied films have gone on to have sequels themselves. Scream is at number 7, and I Know What You Did Last Summer also got an update. I think that it’s only right for horror comedies to get their time as well. Twenty-six years is way too long!
MASTERS OF THE UNIVERSE (JUNE 5)
Lots of superhero movies are dropping this summer! Now, Masters of the Universe
is not a DC Comics or Marvel film. It lives in its own universe under the toy company, Mattel. It became one of the biggest toy phenomena of the decade and was an animated series that captivated audiences in the 1980s. The film follows Prince Adam, a seemingly ordinary young man who transforms into the mighty He-Man, the most powerful hero in the universe. The upcoming adaptation stars Nicholas Galitzine as He-Man and aims to blend the epic fantasy of Eternia with the emotional journey of a hero discovering who he is meant to be. Camila Mendes plays Teela in the film, which is interesting since she used to be in the Archie Comics world on the show Riverdale. It almost feels like a crossover!
EVERY SUMMER AFTER (JUNE 10)
My first bit of advice with this one: Go read the book! Carley Fortune did a fantastic job with this novel! I always get a bit nervous with the book-to-movie or TV show adaptations, but I do have high hopes. This is our only small-screen series on the list, but since the book was so popular and people are excited for it, I
Photo courtesy of Paramount Pictures
Photo courtesy of Amazon MGM Studios
“THE STORY FOLLOWS PERSEPHONE “PERCY” FRASER AS SHE REFLECTS ON SIX UNFORGETTABLE SUMMERS SPENT AT A LAKESIDE RETREAT AND THE DEEP BOND SHE SHARED WITH SAM FLOREK, THE BOY WHO BECAME HER BEST FRIEND, FIRST LOVE, AND GREATEST HEARTBREAK.”
had to add it. The story follows Persephone “Percy” Fraser as she reflects on six unforgettable summers spent at a lakeside retreat and the deep bond she shared with Sam Florek, the boy who became her best friend, first love, and greatest heartbreak. Told across two timelines, the story weaves between Percy and Sam’s idyllic summers together and a presentday reunion that forces them to confront the painful events that tore them apart years earlier. Fans have praised the book for its vivid lakeside atmosphere and the realistic chemistry between its two central characters, making it one of the most talked-about contemporary romance novels in recent years.
TOY STORY 5 (JUNE 19)
Another Toy Story is coming at you! Although the gaps between each of the movies have been on the long side, I’ll always have a soft spot for the duo of Woody and Buzz Lightyear. This film explores a modern challenge facing toys everywhere: competing with technology for children’s attention. The gang of toys faces a new threat to playtime: a high-tech tablet. As children become increasingly attached to electronic devices, Woody, Buzz, and their friends must find new ways to remain relevant and remind kids of the value of imagination, creativity, and real-world play. One of the most exciting additions to Toy Story 5 is a brand-new original song by Taylor Swift. The song was written specifically for the film and is inspired by Jessie’s journey throughout the Toy Story series. It gives a slight nod to Swift, possibly touching on her country roots, but it gives the film an even more nostalgic feel.
Sadie Soverall as Percy Fraser, Matt Cornett as Sam Florek in EveryYearAfter
Photo by Justine Yeung/ Prime Video
Woody, Buzz, and the toys come face to face with Lilypad in ToyStory5
Photo courtesy of Walt Disney Studios
SUPERGIRL (JUNE 26)
DC Comics said “Hold up, Marvel” with the upcoming release of this highly anticipated film! Although I still see Milly Alcock as a Targaryen from House of the Dragon, I’m excited to see her on the big screen because she is really fantastic. It’s like the Daniel Radcliffe curse with Harry Potter. This film introduces a very different version of Superman’s cousin Kara (Milly’s character). Unlike Clark Kent, who was raised on Earth surrounded by love and stability, Kara grew up witnessing the destruction of Krypton and the hardships that followed, giving her a tougher and more complex perspective on heroism. It’s directed by Craig Gillespie and produced by DC Studios heads James Gunn and Peter Safran. I haven’t met a Marvel movie that James Gunn has been involved in that I don’t like, so I don’t doubt it’ll be another hit. It’s expected to play a major role in shaping the future of the newly launched DC Universe.
THE ODYSSEY (JULY 17)
This is one of the most anticipated movies of the last few years. It’s directed by Christopher Nolan, so you know it’s going to be huge. It has an absolutely packed cast, including Matt Damon, Tom Holland, Zendaya (the newlyweds!), Anne Hathaway, Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong’o, and Charlize Theron. It was filmed across multiple countries and uses IMAX technology. Based on Homer’s epic poem, the film follows the Greek hero Odysseus, played by Damon, as he struggles to return home to Ithaca after the Trojan War. What should be a simple voyage becomes a decade-long ordeal filled with shipwrecks, mythical creatures, divine intervention, and tests of courage and loyalty, while his wife, Penelope, and son, Telemachus, fight to preserve his kingdom in his absence. With its blend of mythology, heroism, and human drama, the tale remains as compelling today as it was in ancient Greece, making it a natural fit for Nolan’s grand cinematic style.
Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. Studios
Photo courtesy of Universal Pictures
SPIDER-MAN: BRAND NEW DAY (JULY 31)
Tom Holland and Zendaya are putting in some work this summer! After the epic Tobey Maguire and Andrew Garfield cameos in Spider-Man: No Way Home, I was actually pretty content with the Spidey movies, but the Marvel machine never sleeps. In Spider-Man: Brand New Day, Peter Parker finds himself completely alone, with the world having forgotten who he is. Stripped of the support system that defined his earlier adventures, he has to navigate life as a young adult while protecting New York City on his own. The film’s title is inspired by the Marvel Comics storyline Brand New Day, which similarly reset Peter Parker’s status quo
and returned the character to his roots as a street-level hero balancing everyday struggles with extraordinary responsibilities. This film marks the beginning of a new chapter for Spider-Man in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. For longtime comic readers, the title evokes one of the character’s most recognizable themes: no matter how difficult the past has been, Peter Parker always finds a way to start again.
MJ (Zendaya) watches Spider-Man work in Columbia Pictures SpiderMan:BrandNewDay
Photo by Jay Maidment/CTMG
The Abaco Club is entering a transformative new chapter with a $350 million investment that redefines private island living in The Bahamas. Highlights include The Bay Club, a stunning oceanfront beach club with resort-style pools, lounges, and gathering spaces, alongside expanded sporting amenities, new residential neighborhoods, and enhancements to the club’s celebrated golf and culinary experiences. The ongoing evolution further cements The Abaco Club as one of the Caribbean’s premier private club communities.
For more information or membership inquiries, visit TheAbacoClub.com.
This ongoing investment represents our vision for a true island sanctuary, where members can enjoy world-class amenities, personal service, and effortless living amid the unrivaled natural beauty of the Bahamas.
—TOMMY SOUTHWORTH, PRESIDENT OF SOUTHWORTH
Photo courtesy of The Abaco Club
For more information, visit LouisVuitton.com.
Sartorial
Summer serves as the backdrop for Louis Vuitton’s Resort 2026 collection, a celebration of travel, leisure, and the pleasures of long days spent by the sea. Ready-to-wear, accessories, shoes, and leather goods are infused with a relaxed elegance designed for everything from coastal escapes to evenings under the stars. Among the season’s most coveted pieces is the limited-edition Ace Ball, crafted from leather and Monogram canvas in the likeness of a classic volleyball. Equally playful is the Bag-Alow, a handbag inspired by the beach houses along California’s coastline. Together, the collection captures the carefree spirit of summer while remaining unmistakably Louis Vuitton.
Photo courtesy of Louis Vuitton
STRIKE A POSE
A CELEBRATION OF EVERY-BODY WITH
Sports Illustrated
f there is one thing many women have in common, it’s that at some point in our lives, we’ve struggled with body image.
I know I have: I’ve played the comparison game. I’ve had difficult relationships with food at different points in my life. I’ve had days when I didn’t want to look in the mirror and definitely didn’t want my photo taken. And if I’m being completely honest, walking down a runway in a bikini sounds like one of my personal nightmares.
That’s why attending the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Runway Show during Miami Swim Week became unexpectedly emotional for me. I expected to see beautiful women. Miami Swim Week is full of them. What I didn’t expect was to leave feeling so inspired.
For years, fashion and swimwear runways have been known for showcasing a very specific standard of beauty. While things have slowly started to change, many shows still feel as though they present a single version of what beauty should look like. Sports Illustrated felt different.
BY CAITLYN BURRUS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY GETTY IMAGES FOR SPORTS ILLUSTRATED
SportsIllustrated Swimsuit cover model Camille Kostek hosted the SportsIllustrated Swimsuit Runway Show during Miami Swim Week 2026 at W South Beach as models, athletes, and creators took over one of the week’s most anticipated runways.
This page: Achieng Agutu, Hunter McGrady, Gabriela Moura, Bethenny Frankel, Maura Higgins, Ilona Maher, Ellie Thumann, and Jocelyn Corona walk the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit runway during Miami Swim Week, celebrating confidence, individuality, and representation.
Opposite: Lizzo joins models backstage at the 2026 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Runway Show during Miami Swim Week, reinforcing the evening’s message of confidence, strength, and self-expression.
t the 2026 runway show at W South Beach, I watched women of all shapes, sizes, backgrounds, and professions confidently walk the runway and make it their own. At that moment, Sports Illustrated’s “Strong Girl Summer” campaign was realized on the runway. The brand was putting action behind its message, greenlighting a movement and helping push forward a conversation that women have been having for years.
What struck me most was that the audience wasn’t just accepting the change of pace—we were celebrating it. The models were dancing down the runway, and we were dancing with them.
The Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Runway Show has become one of the biggest events of Miami Swim Week, and it’s easy to see why. While the swimsuits and celebrity appearances certainly draw attention, people keep coming back because of the women on the runway.
Hosted by Camille Kostek, the evening opened with an energetic performance by members of Dancing with the Stars, including Jenna Johnson, Emma Slater, Britt Stewart, Hailey Bills, and Val Chmerkovskiy.
Photos by John Parra
Photo by Alexander Tamargo
From there, six runway presentations took guests through a variety of looks and themes. Sun-kissed resortwear opened the fashion portion of the evening before transitioning into nautical-inspired styles. Then, it flowed into the glamour of the Versace Mansion, and then biker-inspired black looks brought a completely different energy to the runway. Bold colors and animal prints followed, and the evening closed with its final red-hot, sporty presentation.
Familiar faces, including Alix Earle, Brooks Nader, Xandra Pohl, Denise Bidot, Ally Mason, Jilly Anais, and several Sports Illustrated veterans and rookies, took the runway throughout the evening. Athletes, creators, entrepreneurs, television personalities, and models all shared the same stage.
But despite all of the star power, what stood out most wasn’t any particular swimsuit. It was the women wearing them. As model after model walked onto the runway, no two women looked alike, and that was exactly the point. Some were curvy. Some were athletic. Some were petite. Some were tall. Some had bodies shaped by motherhood, while others had bodies shaped by years of training and competition. Every woman brought something different to the runway, yet every woman looked confident and strong in her own skin.
For a long time, women were told, directly or indirectly, that confidence came after achieving a certain look. That once you lost the weight, toned up, or changed whatever part of yourself you were insecure about, then you could finally feel beautiful.
Top: SportsIllustrated Swimsuit cover girl Alix Earle walks the runway during Miami Swim Week 2026 in one of the evening’s standout moments.
Bottom: Dancing with the Stars cast members Jenna Johnson, Emma Slater, Val Chmerkovskiy, Hailey Bills, and Britt Stewart opened the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Runway Show with a high-energy dance performance at W South Beach.
Photos by John Parra
“PEOPLE AREN’T JUST WATCHING FOR THE SWIMSUITS. THEY’RE WATCHING BECAUSE THEY SEE THEMSELVES REFLECTED ON THAT RUNWAY.”
ports Illustrated’s runway seemed to challenge that idea. Instead of showcasing one type of woman, it showcased many.
Maybe that’s part of the reason the show has become so viral over the last few years. People aren’t just watching for the swimsuits. They’re watching because they see themselves reflected on that runway.
Throughout the evening, the audience cheered for athletes, influencers, creators, and models alike. There was an energy that felt different from many of the other shows happening throughout the week.
When Lizzo took the stage in the evening and reinforced the message behind “Strong Girl Summer,” that energy only grew stronger. Her performance felt like a natural extension of what the show had been building toward all night, a celebration of confidence, self-expression, and enjoying the body you’re in.
As the evening moved toward its finale, the runway transformed into a sea of bold red looks. One by one, then all together, the women returned to the runway for the show’s final presentation.
Then came one of the night’s most memorable moments. With the crowd cheering them on, Hayley Kalil and Ilona Maher jumped into the pool, sending water flying and perfectly capturing the evening’s carefree spirit. As music blasted throughout the venue, the women continued dancing together on the runway, laughing, celebrating, and soaking in the final moments of the night. What started as a runway show ended with a giant dance party, a perfect celebration of girlhood.
As the women danced together on the runway and the crowd cheered them on, I found myself thinking about what my younger self would have thought if she had seen this show. Growing up, I don’t remember seeing many women who looked like me in swimwear campaigns or on runways. I certainly don’t remember seeing athletes, influencers, mothers, curvy women, and women from so many different backgrounds sharing the same stage.
The Sports Illustrated Swimsuit brand continues to connect with so many people because it isn’t the ideal of a “perfect” body—it’s showing women that there are endless ways to be beautiful.
Leaving the show, I felt hopeful. Not because body image struggles have disappeared, but because conversations like this are happening. And for the girls growing up now, that’s a powerful thing to see.
For more information on Sports Illustrated Swimsuit, visit Swimsuit.SI.com. To see the celebration, it is streaming now on Hulu and Hulu on Disney +.
Jasmine Sanders
Tunde Oyeneyin
Photos by Alexander Tamargo
See more and shop now at LouisVuitton.com.
American West Coast
In the spirit of the summer holidays, this Louis Vuitton women’s resort wardrobe features ready-to-wear, leather goods, shoes, and accessories, ideal for seaside play, chic getaways, and sunset cocktails. Seen here, the LV Treasure earrings, ring, and necklace emanate contemporary luxury and timeless elegance. Lustrous gold-toned metal is subtly contoured like a natural stone, accented with the LV Initials on one side and a Monogram Flower on the other for a discreet signature. These enchanting pieces bring a touch of refinement to any summer look.
Photo courtesy of Louis Vuitton
Inspirations
IMAGINE
more information, visit LouisianaOldStateCapitol.org and VisitBatonRouge.com.
Rising above the Mississippi River, the Old State Capitol in Baton Rouge remains one of Louisiana’s most distinctive landmarks. Often called the “Castle on the River,” the Gothic Revival building has stood at the center of the state’s political and cultural history since the mid-1800s. Today, visitors are drawn not only to its dramatic architecture and stained-glass dome but also to its immersive exhibits, including the popular Ghost of the Castle experience. As travelers seek meaningful connections to the places they visit, the Old State Capitol offers a window into Louisiana’s past while reminding guests that history is often best understood through the stories it leaves behind.
Photo courtesy of Visit Baton Rouge
Maybe the Tension Is a Good Thing
By Meghan Ryan Asbury
What goes around always seems to come back around, doesn’t it? While I’m young enough to remember my parents commenting on trends from their youth being back in style, apparently, I’m also old enough to see it happening from my own childhood. You’ve probably seen “going back to the ’90s” making its way around social media.
I first noticed it around the holidays, when there was a movement to move away from “aesthetic” and minimalist Christmas decor back to bright colors and an anything-but-minimalistic vibe. This summer, mom-style jean shorts, overalls, and oversized button-downs are the preferred style. People are buying film cameras and camcorders to capture moments instead of using their phones. Online creators are showing off their “analog bags” full of things like paperback books, stationery for pen pals, and crossword puzzles in an effort to cut down on screen time.
The nostalgia of it all brings me so much comfort. I crave experiencing life more than documenting it. Especially since becoming a mom, I find myself hyper aware of how much of my life is spent in front of a screen, whether it’s scrolling on my phone or working on my laptop. But is it even possible for my daughter to experience the 1990s life I was raised in?
Whether it’s the decor, the fashion, or the activities, we collectively seem to be craving a slower pace. We are trying to find a way to transport ourselves back to a time in our lives when things felt simpler than they do now.
“We collectively seem to be craving a slower pace.”
Maybe it’s not actually the ’90s we miss. Maybe it’s the feeling of being unreachable, unobserved, and fully present where we were. As AI is on the rise and the negative effects of social media are increasingly discussed, there appears to be a tension to return to the way things were before.
Before everyone’s lives were available for spectating from afar. Before you did things just to document and share them. Before life went indoors and on a screen, and you did things outside and with your hands.
Before boredom disappeared. Before we confused consuming life with living it.
Something about summer, I think, brings this out of us even more. We all long for the days when we feel free. When school let out and we could ride bikes until the sun went down. When we’d race out of our homemade “forts” in the woods because we’d hear the ice cream truck nearby, taking every last quarter from our
lemonade stand to buy a basic ice cream sandwich that we’d never think to take a picture of before we ate it.
Yes, we had to grow up—but what if the tension we feel to recapture the magic of a childhood summer is a good thing? What if this year, we let ourselves lean into it?
“What if the tension we feel to recapture the magic of a childhood summer is a good thing? ”
Last summer, I redid our home’s front flower beds all by myself. Fighting off firsttrimester nausea, I wanted an excuse to go outside each morning. While we didn’t have much of a yard, we had one small front bed. I had a vision for what I wanted, but no idea how to execute it. So what did I do? I got on ChatGPT and asked it for help. I typed in where I lived and what kind of sunlight I had. I asked what looked good together and how to take care of it.
Ironic, right? The very thing I wanted to help me get off my phone was something I needed my phone to do. But all the saved reels and pins on Pinterest weren’t going to bring my vision to life. I had to actually get outside and get my hands dirty. So I closed out of my phone, drove to the plant nursery, and wandered around gathering supplies. I borrowed a shovel from a neighbor and got to work. Every morning after that, I walked outside, plucked some weeds, pulled out the hose, and watched slowly as my plants bloomed.
Watching something grow over time in a world built for immediacy reminded me that good things take time. This spring, those limelights and hostas are growing back even fuller and more vibrant than last year, and it feels more satisfying than anything I could have posted online.
Maybe that’s why this return to “analog” life seems so comforting right now. In a world where so much of life is consumed through a screen, there’s something healing about creating, tending, making, or experiencing something with your own hands.
As I write this, I’m watching the sun come up from my bedroom window. These early days of having a newborn are getting me up before the sun, and I finally have time to write—but I am doing it on a screen. Maybe that tension is a good thing.
Maybe it reminds us what matters.
The goal isn’t abandoning technology, it’s learning to use it without letting it consume us.
We don’t actually want to go backward. We just don’t want to lose ourselves moving forward.
This year, I’m hopping on the trend and packing an analog bag of things to try: film photography, watercolor paint sets, and a yellow legal pad for writing letters. I don’t have a natural eye for photography, I am terrible at painting, and you can barely read my handwriting, but I can’t wait.
Maybe one day my daughter won’t remember whether the photos were taken on film or an iPhone. But I hope she remembers that we were outside. That we made things. That we noticed beauty. That we were paying attention.
Meghan Ryan Asbury is an author and speaker who is passionate about helping people discover and live out their God-given callings. She has worked in international ministries as well as with Proverbs 31 Ministries. When she’s not surrounded by friends, you can usually find her reading a book or enjoying the great outdoors. A 30-A beach girl, born and raised, she and her husband now reside in Nashville. Her first book, You Are Not Behind: Building a Life You Love Without Having Everything You Want, is available wherever books are sold. You can connect with her on Instagram @meghanryanasbury and at AlwaysMeghan.com.
Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa is helping travelers plan ahead with its new “More Moments in Paradise” offer for 2026. Guests who book by June 30 for eligible stays can enjoy savings on accommodations, daily breakfast, resort credit, and a reduced resort fee. Set on Kauai’s sunny south shore, the oceanfront retreat pairs Hawaiian cultural experiences, championship golf, awardwinning dining, and lush tropical landscapes with one of the island’s most beloved resort experiences.
For more information or to book, visit GrandHyattKauai.com.
Photo courtesy of Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa
Summer has arrived! With its own rhythm of long afternoons and golden evenings, weekends spent chasing the water, and pieces that become part of the memories, this collection is designed for the season at its most inviting: sun-washed essentials, polished accessories, restorative skincare, and thoughtful indulgences for days spent outdoors and nights that last longer than planned. From effortless items to standout pieces and inspiring objects, here are the finds of July.
Wölffer No. 139 Watermelon Sea Salt Cider, Pack of 12 wolffer.com – $48
Shay Mitchell and Caitlyn Burrus at the BEIS x Poppi pop-up at Miami Swim Week 2026
MIAMI SWIM WEEK 2026
Shay Mitchell’s travel and lifestyle brand, BEIS, teamed up with prebiotic soda brand Poppi for Miami Swim Week in colorful fashion with the launch of their collaboration collection. The event brought together creators, media, and tastemakers for a weekend of summer-inspired experiences, refreshing drinks, and an exclusive shopping opportunity featuring the new line. Blending style and travel, the partnership captured the vibrant, social spirit of the week while highlighting the growing influence of immersive brand experiences within the fashion and lifestyle space.
Collection presentations from Maaji and Luli Fama delivered two standout moments of the week, each celebrating the spirit of summer through distinctive perspectives. Colombian swimwear brand Maaji transformed its Seas of Maajic presentation into an immersive journey at the Andaz Hotel, inspired by a cruise itinerary, unveiling six collections featuring its signature reversible swimwear, playful prints, and resort-ready designs while highlighting a commitment to sustainability and adventure. At PARAISO Miami Swim Week, Miami-based Luli Fama celebrated twenty years of energy and glamour on a bold Latin-inspired style catwalk with vibrant prints and confidence-driven silhouettes. The show featured Lifetime’s Dance Moms star Kendall Vertes, Netflix’s Love Is Blind fan-favorite Jessica Vestal, and movie and television personality Agueda Lopez. This star-centric runway highlighted the brand’s influence across fashion, entertainment, and pop culture.
Top row: Maaji Vacation Society: Cruise Edition
Photography courtesy of Maaji
Bottom row: Luli Fama 20th Anniversary Runway at PARAISO Miami Swim Week
Photography by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images for Luli Fama
DIGITAL GRAFFITI 2026
For two evenings in May, Alys Beach, Florida, became a luminous open-air gallery as Digital Graffiti returned for its nineteenth festival. Presented by the Alys Foundation, the internationally acclaimed event transformed the town’s iconic white architecture into a canvas for projection art, with more than sixty finalists from around the world illuminating courtyards, pathways, and facades with original digital works. Guests explored immersive installations throughout the community while enjoying artist celebrations and guided Art + Architecture Walking Tours, creating a dynamic intersection of creativity, technology, and design. Once again, Digital Graffiti showcased why it remains one of the Gulf Coast’s most anticipated cultural experiences.
Photography by Kurt Lischka
PRIVATE RESIDENCE
Heritage Dunes, Seagrove Beach, Florida
THE ART OF TRAVEL
BY MYLES MELLOR
Puzzle on previous page
One’s destination is never a place, but a new way of seeing things. “ ”
—Henry Miller
24,229
1
193,617 $11,051,277
Total Services Given Total Dollars Total Children Helped
For more information on upcoming cultural events, visit MiamiDesignDistrict.com.
Au revoir!
BEFORE YOU GO . . .
Art and athletics met in unexpected ways through Sunset Flip, an exhibition during the inaugural GAME TIME cultural incubator sessions presented in March 2026 by the Miami Design District. It featured works by professional wrestlers and emerging visual artists Lee Moriarty and Thekla Kaischauri. Timed to coincide with the Miami Open and a season of sports-focused cultural programming throughout the city, the exhibition featured ten works exploring movement, identity, and performance. Moriarty’s tennis-inspired paintings, created specifically for the occasion, offered a fresh perspective on competition and creativity. The exhibition as a whole highlighted the boundaries between art, sport, and popular culture.
