Cullman, AL September 2023

What does “style” mean to you?

Dear reader,

September is here and cooler weather is heading our way (you never know what Alabama weather will be like) so our outfits must be transitional for a chilly morning and warmer temps during the day.

Today, I want to take a moment to celebrate and explore the fascinating world of style. Style is not limited to the clothes we wear or the way we adorn ourselves; it encompasses every aspect of our lives. From the way we decorate our homes to the music we listen to, from the books we read to the way we carry ourselves in conversations, style permeates every facet of our existence. It is the thread that weaves together the tapestry of our lives.

Style is very personal. And it evolves as we celebrate our quirks, our passions and our desires. Style is a form of self-expression that communicates who we are, how we perceive the world and what we value. In this way, style becomes a powerful tool for connection, as it enables us to find common ground with others who share our aesthetic sensibilities.

As individuals, we have the freedom to embrace established styles, blend them together or forge entirely new paths, becoming trendsetters ourselves. We hope this issue inspires you to forge new paths or perhaps explore familiar ones. There is so much here in Cullman to uplift our spirits, boost your productivity and ignite your creativity.

What I’ve found is that the best style is an authentic expression of who you really are. And that’s something no one on Earth can duplicate.

Here’s to being uniquely you!

MISSY GURLEY, PUBLISHER @CULLMAN_CITYLIFESTYLE_

September 2023

PUBLISHER

Missy Gurley | missy.gurley@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Wendy Sack | wendy.sack@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Jennifer Murphree - JenJen Photography

Jay Betts - JCB Photography

Caroline Sexton - Ginger Snaps by Caroline

Revision: August Issue’s feature story “A Heart for Serving Others” we neglected to list the photographer. The photography was taken by A Beautiful Life Photo

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Josh Govero

LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray

city scene

1: Emily Bussman, Christine Patterson, Tonya Palmer, Katie Brown, Kathy Sims and Missy Gurley 2: The Bussman boys enjoying Seven Daughters Scoops at Katie Brown’s ribbon cutting 3: Katie E. Brown (Edward Jones) surrounded by friends, family and clients at her ribbon cutting 4: Katie Brown’s son, Cade, loved the scissors at the ribbon cutting. 5: Loved seeing everyone at Katie’s ribbon cutting! 6: Seven Daughters Scoops was a delicious treat! 7: Katie’s Edward Jones office is beautiful!

CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE

CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE

CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE

CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE

CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE

CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE

CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

8: Cullman Savings Bank at Grand Pointe Pharmacy’s 10-year anniversary. Congratulations! 9: WildWater Fun - Wyatt Young, Addison Erwin and Bo and Brady Gunterx 10: Lake League Real Estate invited Cullman Savings Bank to discuss the banking services it offers. 11: Jennifer Murphree was at Rock the South and had a great time snapping photos! 12: Travis Tritt performs at Rock the South. 13: Abby Gurley and Marlee Williams enjoy the first night of Rock the South. 14: Red Clay Strays lead singer Brandon Coleman and his band are all from south Alabama.

JEN JEN PHOTOGRAPHY

JEN JEN PHOTOGRAPHY

CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE

CULLMAN SAVINGS BANK

LAKE LEAGUE REAL ESTATE

JEN JEN PHOTOGRAPHY

BRITTANY GUNTER

15: Rock the South beauties in stars and stripes 16: Jo Dee Messina was so amazing! 17: Dr. Spencer Boozer and Riley Green hang out at Rock the South. 18: Rock the South is not just the Biggest Party in the South; it gives back! 19: Look at this crowd on the final day of Rock the South! 20: Stars and Stripes were out on the the final night of the three-day event. 21: Beautiful smiling ladies at Rock the South

JEN JEN PHOTOGRAPHY

DR. SPENCER BOOZER

JAY BETTS - JCB PHOTOGRAPHY

JEN JEN PHOTOGRAPHY

JAY BETTS - JCB PHOTOGRAPHY

JAY BETTS - JCB PHOTOGRAPHY

22: Loved seeing so many smiles smiling faces. It was a great time! 23: For all you TikTok fans - do you know these guys? 24: Loved seeing The Link of Cullman County receive this donation!

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @Cullman_CityLifestyle_

JAY BETTS - JCB PHOTOGRAPHY

GSD Junk Hauling

GSD is a full-service junk removal company that serves north Alabama. Its services include residential, commercial, construction and appliance removals. The company will also clean out entire homes.

GSD currently serves the following areas in north Alabama:

• Huntsville

• Madison

• Decatur

• Falkville

• Hartselle

• Somerville

• Priceville

• Cullman

• Vinemont

• West Point

• Smith Lake

• And surrounding areas

Photography GSD Junk Hauling

Doug Doggett Jewelers

We have been serving Cullman and surrounding areas since 1981. We are members of the Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce, the Better Business Bureau, Jewelers of America and the Alabama Jewelers Association.

Doug Doggett fell in love with the jewelry industry and fulfilled his dream of opening this establishment in February 1981. Doug had his family join him, making Doug Doggett Jewelers into what it is today!

Scan to read more.

Boozer Eyecare

Boozer Eyecare is pleased to announce the addition of Cullen Carver, O.D. to the practice! Dr. Carver specializes in primary care optometry and is currently accepting new patients.

Dr. Carver is originally from Scottsville, Kentucky. He received a bachelor's degree in biology from Campbellsville University in 2019. A recent graduate of the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Optometry, Dr. Carver also completed a portion of his training at Boozer Eyecare in 2022.

Scan to read more.

Photography Doug Doggett Jewelers

Photography Boozer Eyecare

A family (fashion) affair

ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK PHOTOGRAPHY BY GINGER SNAPS BY CAROLINE

In a beautiful old home nestled in the southeast side of the city near downtown Cullman, local lovers of fashion know what you’ll find. If you don’t know, read on to find out about Three Pears, a lovely boutique clothing store owned by a mother and her two daughters.

“We have always loved fashion, even from a young age. After years of talking about opening a shop, God provided the opportunity to do just that. In 2005, we opened our little 800-square-foot building on Fourth Street Southeast, and Three Pears Shoe Outlet began,” said Owner Carrie Taylor. “My mother (Joan Smith), sister (Kim Ydel) and myself started the store, hence the three and pears; it was just shoes at the time (so we played off of the word), but the fruit seemed to stand out, which is what we wanted to do.”

She continued, “At that time, in 2005, we just had department store close-out shoes. We were small and quaint, but we had high fashion and great prices. Along the way, we relocated to our current location at 118 Fifth St. SE and evolved into what we are now, which is a women’s specialty boutique.”

‘We have always loved fashion, even from a young age’

Sisters Kim Ydel and Carrie Taylor

Emily Graves and Kim Ydel

Taylor shared a favorite quote: “Age and size are only numbers. It’s the attitude you bring to clothes that makes the difference.” – Designer Donna Karan

The ladies of Three Pears - left to right are owner Carrie Taylor, employee Susan Nesmith, owner Kim Ydel and employee Emily Graves.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE MUST HAVES OR HOTTEST ITEMS IN CLOTHING FOR BACK TO SCHOOL? AND FOR THOSE OF US OUT OF SCHOOL?

“Skirts with volume with ladylike silhouettes, preppy with a twist, matching sets and shimmery metallics and reds are

going to be the fashion statement this fall,” Taylor said. “Our goal is always to have fashion that spans age groups. You can take the same essential pieces and make them age appropriate by customizing them to each person’s style.”

Susan Nesmith and Carrie Taylor

Carrie Taylor

WHAT ABOUT FOOTWEAR?

“Platforms are staying a top item for this fall, and Western boots and lug sole loafers are also hot items in footwear,” said Taylor. “Details, details, details!”

WHAT IS SOMETHING ABOUT YOUR STORE THAT PEOPLE MIGHT NOT KNOW?

“Our shop is located in one of the oldest homes in Cullman in its original location,” she said. “It was built in the 1880s.”

The ladies of Three Pears are well versed in fashion, and they also have an eye on the community and its needs.

tinyurl.com/ThreePearsCullman

“WE LOVE TO GIVE BACK THROUGH NONPROFITS THAT SERVE OUR LOCAL COMMUNITY,” SAID TAYLOR, “ESPECIALLY THOSE THAT FOCUS ON PROVIDING SHOES AND CLOTHING TO THOSE IN NEED.”

Gorgeous green pop of color!

Three Pears is located in this lovely home at 118 Fifth St. SE in Cullman.

Energy-efficient, customized living on the lake

MANUFACTURED AND MODULAR HOMES

WORTH A NEW LOOK

Manufactured and modular homes offer myriad benefits and features that appeal to homebuyers seeking quality living at an affordable price. They can be great options for those looking to experience lakeside living.

ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK PHOTOGRAPHY BY STAR HOMES

“We take pride in our ability to customize homes to suit the unique features of lakeside living. Whether it's a spacious deck to enjoy stunning lake views, larger windows to bring in natural light or energy-efficient features that enhance your comfort, our team can tailor your home to meet your specific desires,” said the Star Homes team.

“As Cullman's leading retailer, Star Homes takes great pride in helping families find their perfect abode. We understand the importance of choosing a home that fits your lifestyle, and our knowledgeable staff is here to guide you every step of the way,” they said. Modern manufactured and modular homes take into consideration those who want to live sustainable lifestyles.

“At Star Homes, we believe in sustainable living and are committed to offering energy-efficient homes that not only benefit the environment, but also save you money on utilities in the long run,” said the team.

There's plenty of room to entertain all your family and friends.

“Our collection of energy-efficient manufactured and modular homes is designed to provide comfortable living spaces while minimizing your carbon footprint.”

The Alabama Manufactured Housing Association says: “Today’s factory-built homes are the future in home ownership. The manufactured home or modular home built in a factory and installed on land is less expensive than most site-built homes…Construction cost per square foot of a new manufactured home or modular home may range from 10% to 35% less than a comparable site-built home, excluding the cost of land. Features, floor plans, and other details affect the price of homes.

“Today’s manufactured and modular homes come with many features that you find in a site-built home. Several floor plans are available, ranging from basic models to more elaborate designs with living and dining rooms with vaulted ceilings, fully-equipped kitchens, media rooms, spacious bedrooms and bathrooms with garden tubs.”

Star Homes in Cullman is located at 1081 County Road 437. starhomescullman.com

“We take pride in our ability to customize homes to suit the unique features of lakeside living.” The Star Homes team

Sleek countertops and an oversized fridge

This spacious kitchen is perfect for cooking for the entire family.

Fall landscaping

TIME FOR RENOVATION

ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK

PHOTOGRAPHY BY H&H LANDSCAPE, LLC

Fall is coming, and it’s a great time to consider changes to the landscaping around your home or business.

To get a better understanding of what can be done this time of year, I reached out to H&H Landscape, LLC, a local, family owned business under the stewardship of Randall and Whitney Holmes. The couple has more than 20 years of experience in the industry.

Originally from Augusta, Georgia, Randall found his passion for landscaping through his time spent servicing the Augusta National Golf Course, the Holmeses shared. He has, in more recent years, served as the director of operations for companies in the Birmingham and Lake Martin areas.

“Our mission is to serve our community through showing the love of Jesus Christ and delivering high-quality landscaping with a small-town customer service experience,” they told me. “We can service and handle any of your family or business lawn care needs. We are looking forward to growing here in the city of Cullman and would love to have you embark on this exciting journey with us!”

About autumn landscaping, they said, “Fall is an ideal time for renovation due to cooler temperatures – any sod installation in bare areas or resodding entire turf areas, replacing damaged or dead trees/shrubs or completely renovating your bed spaces. As the foliage on your plants and trees starts

This lush green lawn looks so inviting!

Full blooms bring so much curb appeal!

Lining the sidewalk adds so much detail to your home.

This home was transformed with new landscaping.

to fall, you need to keep your property clean for the holidays. Pruning and target pruning are pertinent to maintaining the health of your trees and shrubs, as well as your desired look aesthetically. It’s also a good time for bed edging (with stone, etc.) There are so many more things to focus on this time of year!”

H&H specializes in lawn maintenance, planting trees and shrubs, renovations, design, installation, cleanup and curb appeal – pretty much anything a home or business owner could need for their yards.

Speaking of curb appeal, Randall and Whitney shared, “Curb appeal is very important for many reasons. As a homeowner, you want to give the best impression. Your home is the definition of your style. It often reflects what the inside of your home looks like as well. If you have curb appeal, it will help your home stand out. We like to work on homes and yards in various neighborhoods around Cullman and Smith Lake. Did you know curb appeal will increase the value of your home? We love to meet and talk with each client and get a feel of their personalities and bring that into the landscaping design of their home!”

facebook.com/handhlandscapellc

“Our mission is to serve our community through showing the love of Jesus Christ and delivering high-quality landscaping with a small-town customer service experience.”

H&H Landscape is a family owned business. Meet the family! Randall, Whitney, Allie, Lincoln and Lexi.

ARTICLE BY HARTSELLE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PHOTOGRAPHY BY FREEDOM LIGHT PRODUCTIONS

Hartselle DEPOT DAYS

The Depot Days Festival rolls into Hartselle each year on the third Saturday in September, bringing a day of free family friendly fun and entertainment to the historic depot and downtown area. Hosted by the Hartselle Area Chamber of Commerce, the Depot Days Festival is a tribute to the railroad industry and its contribution to Hartselle and the North Alabama region. In addition to the one-day celebration, there are additional activities planned in the week leading up to the event.

Depot Days Festival gets underway at 8 a.m. and lasts until 4 p.m. Activities include a car, truck and motorcycle show, music performances, food and craft vendors, an art show, a tractor and engine show and a variety of fun and games for children.

Goat Hill String Band and Ray Sparks Band will be the two bands on the main stage.

Saturday, Sept. 16, at 110 Railroad St. SW in Hartselle Can't wait to see you on Sept.16! hartselledepotdays.com. The selection of photos on the opposite page is from the 2022 Depot Days Festival, taken by Freedom Light Productions.

Previewing a North Alabama tradition

Local luxury

Vintage West Interiors brings style to local homes

ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JACOB SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY

Marty and Brenda Roberson were regular customers of Vintage West Interiors for years leading up to their decision to purchase the business at the end of 2021. Since taking ownership Jan. 1, 2022, the Robersons and their daughter, Suzi Tillitski, said, they have enjoyed learning about what it takes to run a furniture store, as well as learning more about the furniture industry as a whole.

“We’ve been dedicated to transforming and expanding the store to reflect our unique vision!” they said.

Vintage West Interiors carries an extensive inventory, curated from dozens of vendors, but some items get more attention than others.

“Four Seasons Furniture is a company out of North Carolina that manufactures a line of high-quality custom upholstery for Vintage West, most notably their slip-covered sofas, sectionals and swivel gliders. This brand is a fan-favorite because of the solid

craftsmanship (which is backed by a lifetime warranty), easy to remove form-fitted slipcovers and the fact that their products are all made in the USA. Not to mention, these are some of the most comfortable sofas/chairs on the market!” said Store Manager Ariel Thornton.

“Another unique product Vintage West carries is Annie Sloan Chalk Paint. There are dozens of brands of chalk paint available; however, Annie Sloan is the one who started it all! The paint can be used on wood, glass, metal, brick, laminate or even fabric, giving old pieces a new life!” she continued. “Another notable product Vintage West offers is high-quality outdoor furniture. We even have a whole second store dedicated to showcasing it! Vintage West Outdoor is located directly behind our main store at 209 First Ave. SW in downtown Cullman, and carries outdoor sofas, lounge chairs, dining tables and chairs, accent

This warm and inviting outdoor kitchen and living space was decorated by Vintage West.

Lush outdoor living space at the home of Bart and Renee Walker.

Another gorgeous bedroom

And another, with beautiful green accents

furniture and fire pits, as well as lamps and lighting, accessory pieces, grills and more.”

Vintage West also offers interior design services as well. Thornton studied Interior Design at the University of North Alabama and is happy to help customers create their dream spaces.

The business serves a wide area, and is especially popular with homeowners on Smith Lake. One of its most recent projects was the home of Bart and Renee Walker. This project has been in the works since late 2021, but supply chain issues delayed staging until spring of this year.

“Bart and Renee hired Vintage West to decorate their home from top to bottom. We provided all the furniture, lighting, rugs, bedding, artwork and outdoor furniture,” Thornton said. “When home construction was complete, I went with our delivery crew to decorate this once empty space and create a warm, cozy environment that we hope the Walkers will enjoy!”

The new owners said their favorite aspect of the business is meeting and interacting with the customers.

“Marty and Brenda have lived on Smith Lake for years. They are always excited to strike up a conversation and spend a little time getting to know their local customers, several of whom have turned into good friends!” said Thornton.

“Cullman is a relatively small town, but visitors come from all over the country to explore and shop in our town! Brenda loves chatting with these visitors and hearing about their homes,” she continued. “So many customers from other parts of the state/ country have shopped at Vintage West that Marty had a cork board map of the U.S. made for his office so he could place a pin on the places our customers visit from!”

Marty, Brenda and Suzi said they look forward to continuing to grow their business and help their customers create their dream homes.

“We’ve been dedicated to transforming and expanding the store to reflect our unique vision!”— New owners Marty and Brenda Roberson and their daughter Suzi Tillitski

This stunning home on Smith Lake is owned by Bart and Renee Walker. Vintage West decorated it from top to bottom, including outdoor furnishings.

Vintage West decorated this bedroom in the home of Bart and Renee Walker.

events

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

SEPTEMBER 3RD

27th Annual Sweet Tater Festival

SMITH LAKE PARK | 9:00 AM

Come out to Smith Lake Park Sunday, Sept. 3, from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. and Monday, Sept. 4, from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. for live entertainment, food vendors, arts and crafts vendors and sweet taters! On Monday will be the Labor Day Sweet Tater Festival Car Show from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Admission is $5 per person; armband allows entry both days. facebook.com/SmithLakePark

SEPTEMBER 7TH

Heritage Skills - Sacred Harp Singing

NORTH ALABAMA AGRIPLEX | 6:00 PM

Join local Sacred Harp Singers from 6-8 p.m. to hear the beauty of this historical music and learn the basics of fa-la-so with Nicholas Thompson. Ages 15 to 18 with a paid registered adult. $10 fee. Sponsored by EvaBank. agriplex.org/WPtest/heritage-skills

SEPTEMBER

9TH-10TH

7th Annual Bernard Blues & BBQ

ST. BERNARD PREPATORY SCHOOL | 9:00 AM

This event, from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. each day, will feature some of the best artisans in the Southeast,  live music, pulled pork, ribs, hamburgers, brats and chicken. Admission is a $10 requested donation. Children younger than 12 free. A Kansas City Barbecue Society sanctioned backyard BBQ cook-off will take place Sept. 9. Find out more at: stbernardprep.com/bernard-blues-bbq, stbernardprep.com/sign-up-bbq

SEPTEMBER 15TH

September 2023 Community Luncheon

ALL STEAK | 11:00 AM

Join the Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce and hear from Business Council of Alabama President Helena Duncan. Learn about the vision of the BCA, how local businesses can utilize resources and events as well as what the BCA sees as growth opportunities and challenges for the coming year. 11 a.m.-1p.m. $20 for Chamber members and $30 for non members.  RSVP@cullmanchamber.org

Cullman Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest German Dinner

SACRED HEART OF JESUS FAMILY LIFE CENTER | 4:00PM

Just $15 for grilled Brickyard bratwurst, German potato salad, sauerkraut, green beans, apple sauce, bread, dessert and drink (dine-in). Dine in from 5-7 p.m. or drive through from 4-6 p.m. Cash or checks only, please. Everyone is invited to help kick off our city’s German heritage celebration!

Cullman Oktoberfest

CULLMAN FESTHALLE AND DEPOT PARK | 9:00 AM

Cullman Oktoberfest is an annual celebration of Cullman’s German heritage. Come out and enjoy authentic German food, delicious beer in our revamped Biergarten and loads of entertainment - from our 2023 Burgermeister to the Miss Oktoberfest pageant to the wiener dog races to live music and more! cullmanoktoberfestival.com

Save the Date! 7th Annual Caring for Cullman Concert

NORTHBROOK BAPTIST CHURCH | 6:00 PM

Benefits the Good Samaritan Health Clinic! A night of fun and great music, with the Daystar Church Praise Team and award-winning Triumphant Quartet! Tickets are $25 in person and $28 online. Get tickets at the door or at goodsamaritancullman.com, Good Samaritan Health Clinic, Yates-Chance Christian Bookstore and Borden Family Pharmacy. For concert details, call 256-255-5965.

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