CELEBRATING WOMEN
Southern Magnolias
May is a month of blooming beauty, a time when front porches fill with the scent of jasmine and the warmth of spring lingers a little longer. But more than that, it’s a month to celebrate the remarkable women who have shaped our lives — the mothers, grandmothers, friends and fierce women business owners who embody grace, grit and Southern strength.
I was raised by strong Southern women, the kind who could make a Sunday supper that fed both the body and soul, who worked tirelessly but always had time to listen and who carried themselves with a quiet resilience that spoke louder than words. My mother, Abby, taught me that love is in the little things — homemade meals, steady hands and unwavering support. My grandmothers, Granny and Meme, were cut from the same cloth, women who could turn garden-grown vegetables into the best meals you’ve ever tasted and make you feel at home with just a smile.
This month, as we celebrate Mother’s Day, I find myself even more grateful for the women in my life — my dear friends, my fellow business owners and the incredible ladies who pour their heart and soul into this community. Cullman is full of strong, hardworking women who are raising families, building businesses and making a difference. They are the backbone of this town, the ones who lead with both heart and determination.
So here’s to the women who wake up early and stay up late, who love fiercely, work tirelessly and carry themselves with the same quiet strength as a Magnolia in full bloom. May we celebrate them, honor them and never take for granted the wisdom, love and legacy they leave behind.
Happy Mother’s Day to all the incredible women who make this world a little brighter!
May 2025
PUBLISHER
Missy Gurley | missy.gurley@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Wendy Sack | wendy.sack@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Lisa Jones - Lisa Jones Photograpy
Caroline Sexton - Gingersnaps by Caroline
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
the issue
Smith
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Cullman Savings Bank employees bowled in a Cullman Association of Realtors event. 2: The Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors pose at the 82nd annual Chamber Gala. 3: Emma Gurley poses in a gorgeous green dress from The Something Blue Shoppe Bldg 2. 4: A relaxing facial with Tracey Mauter of Blu Skin 5: “The Missing Key” book and workbook by Dr. Rebekah Lloyd are now available. 6: Hawkins Medical and Wellness group looking amazing at the annual Chamber of Commerce Gala 7: Friends Kelley Payne (Alabama Outdoor Lighting) and Traci Johnson (Checklist Concierge) at Les Dames
Want to be seen in the magazine?
DR. REBEKAH LLOYD
TRACI JOHNSON & KELLEY PAYNE
THE SOMETHING BLUE SHOPPE
CULLMAN SAVINGS BANK
business monthly
Kingdom Watch Company
Timeless craftsmanship, built in Cullman
A watch is more than just a timepiece — it’s a statement of precision, style and reliability. At Kingdom Watch Company, we handcraft every watch in Cullman, Alabama, ensuring unmatched quality and durability. Our timepieces combine expert craftsmanship with timeless design, built to last for generations. Whether for work or adventure, a Kingdom watch keeps you on time and in style. www.kingdomwatchcompany.com
Instagram: nma_watchguy | Facebook: Custom Watch Mods
Scan to read more
Revive Massage Therapy, LLC
Tami Rawls has been a licensed massage therapist in Cullman since 2021. In 2024, she and her husband purchased property and started working tirelessly to make her vision become a reality in what is now Revive Massage Therapy, LLC. April marked one year since opening and Revive has grown already, adding two amazingly talented therapists, Kaziar Rivera and Alicia Powe. Together, as a team, they are committed to serving you. Facebook/Revive Massage Therapy LLC, 256-507-3933
Scan to read more
The Something Blue Shoppe, The Something Blue Shoppe Bldg. 2
Approaching 56 years in business, The Something Blue Shoppe is one of the Southeast’s most prestigious bridal salons. Our former store manager, TJ, is now the proud owner, continuing our legacy of helping brides find the perfect dress. Located in Hartselle, we offer a curated selection of bridal gowns in sizes 2 to 34, plus dresses for bridesmaids, mothers and flower girls. Join generations of brides and become a Something Blue bride! www.facebook.com/SomethingBlueBldg2, 256-773-3535
Scan to read more
Photography by Kingdom Watch Company
Photography by Revive Massage Therapy, LLC
Photography by The Something Blue and The Something Blue 2
Visiting Angels - Cullman
In 2012, Greg and Kaye Donnelly opened their first Visiting Angels franchise in Cullman, growing to serve Cullman, Walker, Marshall, Blount and Etowah counties. In 2017, a second franchise was purchased to operate in Baldwin and Mobile counties, with offices in Mobile, Daphne and Gulf Shores. They have proudly served over 2,000 senior families, striving to be a valued part of each community, helping keep seniors in their homes as long as possible. www.visitingangels.com/cullman, 256-734-6600
Scan to read more
Jack’s Western & Outdoor Wear
Voted Cullman's premier destination for boots, western wear and men's clothing, Jack's is celebrating 49 years of serving the community. Conveniently located just off I-65 Exit 304, Jack's boasts an astonishing selection of more than 30,000 pairs of boots! You'll find a wide array of clothing options for the entire family, featuring top brands. Whether you're in the market for rugged outdoor wear or stylish western attire, Jack's has something for everyone. JacksWestern.com, 256-739-3612
LifeWork Physical Therapy
With locations in Cullman, Hartselle and Decatur, LifeWork Physical Therapy provides expert care to help patients regain strength, mobility and confidence. Led by Mike Tucker, PT, CSCS, Cert. DN, the team specializes in sports rehab, dry needling, post-surgical recovery and chronic pain management. Whether you're recovering from an injury or looking to improve movement, LifeWork is dedicated to personalized, one-on-one results-driven care in a Christ-honoring treatment setting. LifeWorkPT.com, 256-615-1800
Scan to read more Want
Photography by Visiting Angels
Photography by Jack’s Western & Outdoor Wear
Photography by LifeWork Physical Therapy
The influence of a teacher
Tribute to Mrs. Ethalene Harbison
Teachers shape lives in ways they may never fully realize. They plant seeds of curiosity, confidence and resilience that grow long after their students leave the classroom. Some seeds take root unexpectedly, sprouting into dreams, careers and lifelong callings. For me, that guiding force was my second-grade teacher, Mrs. Ethalene Harbison.
Even at a young age, I realized she saw something in me. She encouraged me to dream big, embrace learning and believe in my potential. One of the greatest gifts she ever gave me was recognizing my love for storytelling before I understood it myself. She encouraged me to attend the Young Authors Conference — not once, but twice — an experience that planted the first seeds of my passion for writing. Sitting in a room filled with other young storytellers, I felt a spark of possibility, a glimpse of what could be. I didn’t know then that I would become a published author one day, but Mrs. Harbison did.
Years passed, and life led me in directions neither of us could have imagined. I joined the Army, and while home on leave one day, I ran into Mrs. Harbison at a local grocery store. We exchanged warm
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY DR. REBEKAH LLOYD
greetings, and she looked at me with joy and surprise. “I never thought you’d join the Army,” she admitted with a chuckle, still the same kind and perceptive teacher I remembered. That moment stuck with me — not because she doubted me, but because it reminded me how life often unfolds in ways we least expect.
After moving back home, I knew I had to find her again. This time, I was the one who wanted to surprise her. I knocked on her door, my young son standing beside me, eager to meet the woman who had played a pivotal role in shaping his mother’s path. True to her nature, Mrs. Harbison immediately stepped back into her teacher role, sharing her prized classroom possessions — geodes, lava rocks and fossils — with my son, just as
Dr. Rebekah Lloyd (yellow shirt) and other students at the Young Authors Conference with Mrs. Harbison
she had done with me so many years before. Watching her light up while explaining the wonders of science reminded me that, for great teachers, the love of learning never fades. When I completed my doctorate, I returned for another visit, bringing my other son along. Knowing he was fascinated by sharks, I coordinated with Mrs. Harbison ahead of time, much to his delight. She shared her collection of fossils and geodes again and then pulled out her prized shark teeth collection just for him. That day, she even led him through some fun science experiments, turning our visit into an impromptu classroom lesson filled with discovery and wonder.
After receiving the printed copies of my books, I knew I had to revisit Mrs. Harbison. I had the honor of placing the stories she had helped inspire in her hands. Without her encouragement all those years ago — without her belief in my potential — I wouldn’t be the author, entrepreneur or researcher I am today.
Teachers often don’t see the final chapters of the stories they help write. They pour into their students without expecting to know where that guidance will lead. But Mrs. Harbison got to see mine, and I got to tell her that because of her, I became a lifelong learner, a storyteller and someone who dares to dream big.
The most incredible legacy a teacher can leave is not in lesson plans or test scores but in the lives they shape. Mrs. Harbison changed mine, and I will be forever grateful for that.
Mrs. Harbison and Dr. Rebekah Lloyd the day Lloyd took her books to her former teacher
Dr. Rebekah Lloyd at an Author Talk event at the Cullman County Public Library
“Dr.
‘ L O V E
Granite South in Jasper is well known for its beautiful selection of sleek, modern natural stone countertops. The locally owned business specializes in unique, sustainable products that help home- and business owners create or transform their spaces with materials that stand the test of time.
At the helm of Granite South is Owner Becky Sherer, whose keen eye for style helps drive the company’s success. We sat down for a quick Q&A to get Sherer’s thoughts.
WHATYOUDO!’
ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY GRANITE SOUTH
Q&A WITH GRANITE SOUTH’S BECKY SHERER
Cullman City Lifestyle: Did you always want to run a business?
Becky Sherer: I’ve always loved design and making spaces beautiful, so turning it into a business felt like a natural step.
CCL: What are the benefits and challenges of being family owned?
BS: Being family owned means we have a strong sense of trust and shared vision. We are deeply invested in what we do, and that passion translates into how we serve our clients.
CCL: Are you involved in any activities that allow you to mentor young women wanting to get a foot in the business world?
BS: Not officially; however, I always make time to offer advice and support whenever I can. I know how valuable guidance can be when starting out, so I love helping other women who are trying to build something for themselves.
Becky Sherer, owner of Granite South
CCL: What advice would you give to any young woman or person out there who might want to have a career like yours?
BS: My biggest advice is to just START. Don’t wait until everything is perfect, because it never will be. Learn as you go, stay adaptable and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Surround yourself with people who inspire you and always trust your instincts, especially in business. And most importantly, love what you do! Passion and consistency will carry you through the challenges.
CCL: What do you love most about the work you do?
BS: Transformation - not just spaces, but how people feel in them. Helping someone create a beautiful, functional space that truly reflects them is so rewarding. I love the creativity, the problem solving and the connections I build with my clients. There’s nothing better than seeing the joy on their faces when everything comes together.
Visit www.granitesouthinc.com for more information and to see a gallery of available products.
REALIZING YOUR DREAM
ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK
PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTED BY DR. MORGAN MARTIN
Dr. Morgan Martin of Seidel + Martin Plastic Surgery & MedSpa in Cullman is a double board-certified plastic surgeon. She said she always knew she wanted to be a surgeon.
“My mother was a recovery room nurse and this gave me exposure to the medical field and to operating. As early as middle school, I knew I was going to be a doctor and never even considered anything other than surgery. I was so fascinated by the concept of having the knowledge and skills to perform this job as well
as the instant gratification,” she said. “At some point very early, I began to understand what plastic surgery entails. At first I loved craniofacial (working with children with facial deformities), but then I was exposed to the greater part of plastics which includes reconstructing traumatic deformities, breast reconstruction and solving complex problems. The huge variety and complexity of the specialty is what sold me. I love being a subspecialist and assisting other surgeons with their challenging cases.”
Dr. Morgan Martin on reaching your potential
Prior to medical school, Martin worked as a lifeguard, tutor, research assistant and in retail. She attended Auburn University, receiving two bachelor’s degrees: one in biomedical sciences and one in Spanish. She attended medical school at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, then spent eight years in surgical training, beginning with an intern year at Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center. She completed her general surgery residency at Tulane University and her plastic surgery fellowship at Emory University in Atlanta. That’s a total of 16 years on her education and training.
Martin joined her current practice in 2022.
“As an Alabama native, I was recruited to come to Cullman after my fellowship. I started in 2022 and joined Dr. Steven Seidel. After two years, I am now partner.
Dr. Martin’s career advice
• Know the path is long and can get really hard, but it will be worth it.
• Don’t say, “When I get done I’ll do __.” You have to live in the moment and enjoy what you can.
• Have kids when it’s best for you - not the system.
• As a woman, you have to work harder to show your intelligence and worth, but just keep showing up and speaking up. Being present, showing interest and following your passion will get you noticed and get you where you want to be.
• Be your authentic self. Your authenticity is your most valuable asset.
• Know your worth, be confident, keep showing up. You’re far more valuable than you realize.
Dr. Morgan Martin and friends at the 82nd annual Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce Gala
Dr. Morgan Martin at work
We have made many incredible updates to the business including changing the name to Seidel + Martin Plastic Surgery & MedSpa, adding the MedSpa, and updating our charting system,” she said. “The business has really flourished, and I think it’s because we are such a great group of people. We are down to earth and treat you like family. This is also what I love the most about my practice and why I chose to stay in Cullman. There is nowhere else that I could have such an incredible team to work with. It really is a hidden gem.”
Find Seidel + Martin Plastic Surgery & MedSpa online at www.seidelmartinplasticsurgery.com .
Dr. Morgan Martin in her practice
PURSUING YOUR PASSION
A CAREER PATH TO HAPPINESS
ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK PHOTOGRAPHY BY REVIVE MASSAGE THERAPY, LLC
Your career can take you places you never imagined. Just ask Tami Rawls, Licensed Massage Therapist and owner of Revive Massage Therapy, LLC, in Cullman.
“I have a background in health care, including an associate degree and 21 years’ experience in occupational therapy (licensed and certified more than 25 years), and five years as a caregiver and Certified Nursing Assistant,” she shared.
“I was given the opportunity at Birmingham School of Massage to further my education
Revive's Serenity Retreat outdoor space is a tranquil setting enveloped by the sounds of nature.
and understanding of the human body and how it functions. I learned how closely OT and massage therapy are related, and how they complement one another in health and healing. With a goal of opening my own place one day, I worked alongside longtime massage therapist Kathy Terrell at Selah Therapeutic Massage from 2021 until I opened Revive in April 2024.”
Rawls and her husband Tommy purchased the Revive property in January 2024.
“We (mainly he) worked long, hard hours to make our place perfect. He made my vision and my dream my reality,” she beamed. “I have rooms for five massage therapists, and currently have three, including myself (LMT #5811), Kaziar Rivera (LMT #6612) and Alicia Powe (LMT #6623).”
Being a woman-owned business is something Rawls embraces.
“I take great pride in serving the community. It reflects my personal journey and the values of my team,” she said. “I believe in inspiring other women to pursue their passions and dreams.”
Rawls and her team offer an array of massage services, including Swedish relaxation, therapeutic (including deep tissue and neuromuscular), facial, cupping, hot stones, lymphatic drainage and more.
As far as career advice for young women, she offered, “Running your own massage business is a lot of responsibility, but most important is building and nurturing relationships… with other business owners, massage therapists, health care professionals and, most importantly, clients and potential clients. Always be coachable, and listen to feedback (especially from clients) so you continue to improve your skills and their experience.
“I see Revive as a space where individuals, especially women, feel safe, supported and cared for.”
“Nothing on Earth is more fulfilling than serving others… helping people feel better, both physically and emotionally, makes my heart happy. It’s truly rewarding to make a positive impact on someone, whether easing their pain, relieving their stress or just giving them a break from the chaos.”
Revive Massage Therapy, LLC, is located at 1018 Alabama Highway 69 N.
Facebook/Revive Massage Therapy LLC
Tami Rawls, Alicia Powe and Kaziar Rivera
Tami Rawls
'WE BUILT THE BUSINESS together'
'WE’RE DOING WHAT WE LOVE, AND WE’RE DOING IT TOGETHER'
ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CAROLINE SEXTON
Left to right are employee Emily Graves and owners Carrie Taylor, Joan Smith and Kim Ydel.
Sisters Carrie Taylor and Kim Ydel, and their mother Joan Smith opened Three Pears Boutique in 2005, their debut in the fashion retail business. Two decades later, while the trio doesn’t overtly market the shop this way, they certainly lean into being a woman-owned store as a unique identity.
“We built the business together,” smiled Taylor. “Our story is an integral part of the boutique’s image, but we focus on fashion and service - to our customers as well as the community as a whole.”
Three Pears prioritizes giving back to local charities that provide clothing and shoes to those in need. “It’s a shared passion between the three of us,” she said.
Taylor is a graduate of Good Hope High School. She was just starting out in her personal career journey when she opened Three Pears with her sister and mom. It was the perfect opportunity to turn her lifelong love of fashion into an entrepreneurial adventure. Over the years, she’s become the primary buyer and stylist for the store, and a wellknown local female entrepreneur.
Ydel brought a corporate background to the family business. Before joining Three Pears, she earned her degree from The University of Alabama and worked in marketing and pharmaceutical sales. She served as a marketing coordinator at Altec, Inc. and a pharmaceutical representative for Forest Laboratories, giving her experience in sales, customer relations and business operations. In 2005, Ydel pivoted to
Joan Smith
Carrie Taylor, Kim Ydel and Joan Smith
entrepreneurship, teaming up with her mother and sister to start Three Pears. In the shop’s daily operations, she handles marketing efforts and is very involved in buying.
Taylor and Ydel’s mother, Smith, went from being a supportive mother with a keen eye for style to becoming a first-time business owner when Three Pears opened. She has been a co-owner and principal of the boutique’s corporation ever since, bringing significant life experience and organizational skills to the trio’s venture.
All three shared advice for aspiring young businesswomen:
• Follow your passion: Build a business doing something you genuinely love! Your passion will sustain you through the hard work of starting and running a business.
• Embrace community and give back: Stay involved in your community and use your business as a platform for good. Supporting local causes not only enriches others, but also builds a positive reputation for your brand.
All three woman said working with family is a strength and part of the success of their business. Even the next generation, Taylor’s girls and Ydel’s girls, love coming and helping any chance they get.
“Our faith, goals and values were aligned from the start, and most importantly, there’s a built-in support system.”
• Be patient and seize the right opportunity: Prepare and stay ready – when God opens a door, don’t be afraid to walk through it. Timing and persistence both matter.
— Carrie Taylor
• Gain experience and skills: Educate yourself and gather skills that will help your business. Learn the ropes through college, jobs or mentorship in relevant fields like business, marketing or fashion.
• Start small and grow gradually: Begin with what you can manage and let your business evolve. It’s often better to start modestly, nail your niche and build from there. Growth will come with hard work and good customer service.
“Starting Three Pears together was a family affair,” said Taylor. “Our faith, goals and values were aligned from the start, and most importantly, there’s a built-in support system.”
Indeed, the atmosphere of the boutique reflects that. Customers frequently remark on the welcoming feel, with an easy camaraderie between mother and daughters and a genuine, positive and lots of times, funny vibe, with jokes flowing easily.
Additionally, the store’s other employees, Susan Nesmith and Emily Graves, have worked with the trio for almost a decade, and are considered family.
Taylor said, “All five of us cherish our time spent together at the shop. We’re doing what we love, and we’re doing it together. And the business is thriving - we recently celebrated our 20th anniversary! We can’t ask for more than that!”
Three Pears is located at 118 Fifth St. SE in Cullman.
www.threepearscullman.com
WHAT’S YOUR PROUDEST MOMENT as a business owner?
Talking to local businesswomen
ARTICLE BY CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE
PHOTOGRAPHY BY VARIOUS PHOTOGRAPHERS
In honor of our May Women’s issue, we’re celebrating the women who keep Cullman thriving — from boutique owners to business leaders, creatives to CEOs. We sat down with local women in business to ask one simple but powerful question: What’s your proudest moment as a business owner? Their answers reflect courage, faith, resilience and the deep-rooted pride that comes from building something meaningful. One special nomination even came from a daughter-in-law who wanted to shine a light on the strength and heart of her mother-in-law. This feature is a love letter to the women shaping our community — one bold step at a time.
This feature is a love letter to the women shaping our community — one bold step at a time.
nd daughter-in-law
Nominated by her daughter-in-law
Courtney Herron, Connie Millican is a true example of strength and leadership. After the passing of her husband in 2023, she stepped up to lead Millican RV America with purpose and vision. From launching new marketing efforts — including an ABC 33/40 commercial — to expanding on social media, Millican has brought fresh energy and growth to Cullman. Choosing faith over fear, she kept the business in the family, and with a brand-new shop and office opening soon, the future looks bright for Millican RV America.
CONNIE MILLICAN MILLICAN RV AMERICA
MEGAN BARBEE PREMIER PLUMBING
"My proudest moment was the day we realized we had built something real; something that could support not just our family, but other families, too. When we hired our first full-time employee, it hit me that this dream had grown into a business with a future. That moment meant everything to me."
Rebekah Lloyd and
DR. REBEKAH LLOYD LLOYD CONSULTING FIRM
"My proudest moment as a business owner was hearing my son say, 'My mom helps leaders take care of their people.' As a solo parent and entrepreneur, I often wonder if I’m balancing it all well. That moment reminded me that my work isn’t just transforming organizations — it’s shaping how my children see compassion, resilience and purpose in action. That’s the legacy I’m most proud to build — both at home and in business."
KATHY SIMS ALFA INSURANCE
“The joy of helping first time homebuyers walk through the insurance process from protection of their home to protecting their family.”
TAMI RAWLS REVIVE MASSAGE THERAPY, LLC
"I would have to say I have so many proud moments as a business owner… from opening my business (super exciting) to growing and serving the community with the right team members, to finally getting ready to celebrate our one-year anniversary. Choosing the perfect team has been the best part…it’s difficult to find the perfect fit when choosing who you want to work with, but my team goes above and beyond to make this dream work and I couldn’t be more proud to have Kaziar and Alicia on my team serving our community. I am totally blessed to have the opportunity to serve my community with an amazing team beside me."
RACHEL EIDSON ELEVATE CULLMAN
"Most proud - that's hard! There are so many good things! Building a fantastic team and clients meeting goals to lose weight are fun, but what makes me most proud is watching women gain confidence. So much of the fitness industry is oriented around shame, but Elevate is different and I am grateful to host a space that builds up women in our community."
MISSY GURLEY CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE
"My proudest moment as a business owner has been watching Cullman City Lifestyle grow into something that truly connects people. Whether it’s a local business seeing new faces walk through their doors after a feature, or a story that sparks pride in our community, I’m most proud when the magazine becomes more than just pages — it becomes a platform for others to shine. Building relationships, supporting women in business and celebrating Cullman have been so rewarding!"
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
MAY 3RD
3rd Annual Boatin’ & Boilin’ Crawfish Boil & Boat Show
The Grille at Trident Marina | 2:00 PM
Get ready for the ultimate lakeside feast! All-you-can-eat Crawdaddy Dave’s spicy boiled crawfish, shrimp and fixins. Live music from 7-10 p.m. Brand-new boats on display with on-water demos! Fun outdoor games and great company with stunning Smith Lake views. Proceeds benefit Alabama Lakewide Charities. Tickets are $35 online in advance or $40 at the door.
MAY 8TH
Boozer Eyecare Trunk Show
Boozer Eyecare Associates | 9:00 AM
Join us from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. for free giveaways, refreshments and gift with purchases. The event will feature a full line of eltaMD Skincare and Sihouette eyewear.
MAY 24TH
Smith Lake Park Memorial Day Weekend Music Festival
Smith Lake Park | 9:00 AM
This fun annual event will kick off at 9 a.m. and go until 4 p.m. There will be live entertainment on the stage, as well as food and arts and craft vendors throughout the event area.
Want
