South Bay Stables blends equestrian life, family roots, and luxury events into a one-of-a-kind coastal country experience.
LIFE + CULTURE
SOUTH BAY STABLES & THE PARKERS
Celebrating What Matters
Most- Children and Pets
This issue of Destin City Lifestyle Magazine is dedicated to the people, places, and relationships that make life meaningful. From family and friends to beloved pets and supportive communities, these connections remind us what it means to love deeply, live purposefully, and appreciate the moments that matter most.
Our cover story features South Bay Stables, a place built on family values, faith, and a love for the equestrian lifestyle. What started as David and Terri Parker's dream of raising their family around horses has grown into a thriving farm and gathering place where families create memories, celebrate traditions, and enjoy the beauty of Northwest Florida.
We also celebrate the students of The Barrett School, where the Class of 2026 is recognized alongside kindergarten graduates. Guided by its mission of Education, Tailored to the Child™, The Barrett School continues to inspire confidence, creativity, and a love of learning at every stage of a child's journey.
In Crestview, Benjamin and Alley have built something special with Glory to Glory Ice Cream. Their mission, "Above All, Love," is reflected in every scoop they serve and every customer they welcome. More than an ice cream shop, it has become a place where community and connection come together.
Pets and Professionals! The bond between people and their pets is another theme woven throughout this issue. Through the stories of Kristin Sullivan and Abaco of The Alice, along with Heather Williams and her beloved companions, we are reminded of the loyalty, comfort, and unconditional love animals bring into our lives. This issue also highlights Angie Davis of Glow Health & Wellness, whose passion for helping others live healthier, more fulfilling lives reflects the spirit of care and connection that defines our community. Alongside her story, we feature Sonia and Brian Petrucci of SoWal Pharmacy and their beloved Schnoodle Coco, celebrating the important role pets play in bringing joy, companionship, and unconditional love to our families.
Community celebrations are thriving across our area as well. One recent highlight was the Red, White & Royal Pageant hosted by Bling Queens Pageants at the Walton County Fairgrounds in DeFuniak Springs, Florida. Contestants from across our state and beyond came together for a day filled with confidence, friendship, fun, and unforgettable memories, proving that true success is found in encouraging and uplifting one another.
Thank you for being part of the Destin City Lifestyle family.
August 2026
PUBLISHER
Carmen Foster | carmen.foster@citylifestyle.com
CO-PUBLISHER
Josh Foster | josh.foster@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Maria Serondo | destincitylifestyle@gmail.com
MARKET SUPPORT DIRECTOR
Michele Pavlich | Covenantcookiecreations@gmail.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Ernalyn Ruda | er.photography20@gmail.com
CARMEN FOSTER, PUBLISHER
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
Learn how to start
3:5-6
South Bay Stable & Lucy, the owner’s daughter.
Photography: Andrew Ryback Photography
SOUTH BAY STABLES
WHERE COASTAL LIVING MEETS COUNTRY CHARM
ARTICLE BY DCL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY GRAY BAGBY PHOTOGRAPHY
David & Terri Parker
David and Terri Parker never imagined that their pursuit of a quieter lifestyle would one day become one of the Emerald Coast's most unique destinations. Nearly six years ago, the couple made the life-changing decision to leave their beautiful Coastal Living show home in Rosemary Beach and embrace a more rural way of life. Inspired by Terri's Mississippi upbringing and their youngest daughter Lucy's passion for competitive horseback riding, they purchased acreage along the South Choctawhatchee Bay and began building what would become South Bay Stables.
Today, the property spans hundreds of acres of rolling pastureland, wooded landscapes, and scenic waterfront views. Located just minutes from the beaches of South Walton and Destin, South Bay Stables offers a rare balance of country serenity and coastal convenience.
From the beginning, the Parkers envisioned the property as a full-time working farm and equestrian facility. Their commitment to preserving the authenticity of ranch life remains at the heart of everything they do. Horses, livestock, gardens, and daily farm operations continue to define the experience, creating an atmosphere that feels both genuine and welcoming.
The vision for South Bay Stables extends well beyond the farm itself. David Parker is currently planning a future Coastal Country Community inspired by the lifestyle his family enjoys each day.
The proposed community will blend modern amenities with the simplicity of country living. Residents will enjoy horse-riding and walking trails, resort-style pools, fitness and wellness facilities, outdoor recreation areas, gardens, greenhouses, and fresh farm experiences. Plans also include gathering spaces, local businesses, restaurants, a chapel, and community-centered amenities designed to encourage connection and healthy living.
The goal is simple: create a place where families can enjoy nature, embrace outdoor living, and experience a stronger sense of community while remaining close to the Gulf Coast's world-famous beaches and attractions.
Terri Parker (Photo by ADINA Photography)
David & Terri Parker (Photo by ADINA Photography)
An unexpected opportunity emerged in June 2025 when the Parkers' middle daughter, Courtney, chose South Bay Stables as the setting for her wedding. Friends, family members, and wedding professionals were captivated by the property's beauty, creating an immediate demand for future celebrations at the venue.
Rather than rushing into the event industry, Terri Parker approached the opportunity thoughtfully. She met with local wedding professionals, event planners, and vendors to better understand the needs of the market and determine how South Bay Stables could offer something truly special. What she discovered was a growing desire for a luxury outdoor venue that combined elegance with authenticity.
Today, South Bay Stables offers a limited number of private events each year, carefully balancing its role as an event venue
while remaining a full-time working farm. Terri's philosophy is simple: quality over quantity. Every gathering hosted on the property is designed to enhance, not overwhelm, the natural beauty of the land.
Remarkably, no major construction or renovations were required. The property's stunning barns, expansive green spaces, mature trees, and picturesque landscapes already provided the perfect backdrop for unforgettable celebrations.
In addition to weddings and private events, South Bay Stables proudly supports charitable causes and community initiatives through select fundraising events each year. Through every gathering, the Parkers remain committed to sharing their slice of paradise while preserving the character and charm that make South Bay Stables truly one of a kind.
FUTURE READY GRADUATES
Celebrating the Class of 2026 and kindergarten milestones at The Barrett School in Destin, Florida.
ARTICLE BY DI MONTE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY GALINA WELLS PHOTOGRAPHY
Graduation at The Barrett School honored two remarkable beginnings: seniors stepping confidently into the future and kindergarten students celebrating their first academic milestone. Together, they reflected a shared journey built on curiosity, growth, purpose, and the unwavering support of families and educators.
“Education tailored to each child transforms potential into purpose, creating future-ready graduates equipped for lifelong success.”
At The Barrett School, graduation is more than a ceremony—it is the culmination of a personalized educational journey rooted in one defining belief: Education, Tailored to the Child™. Every student possesses unique strengths, talents, interests, and aspirations, and the school’s mission is to ensure those qualities are recognized and nurtured throughout every stage of learning.
From the earliest years through senior graduation, students are known as individuals. Teachers cultivate meaningful relationships, challenge students academically, and encourage them to develop confidence, character, and critical thinking skills. This commitment comes to life through the school's Tailored Learning Model™, guided by four foundational pillars: know every child, challenge every mind, nurture every strength, and prepare every student for the future.
Within small classroom environments, educators are able to create intentional learning experiences that support academic excellence while honoring
individual growth. Advanced STEM programs, project-based learning, leadership opportunities, and collaborative problem-solving encourage students to think beyond traditional answers and become innovative thinkers.
For Lower School students, learning begins with exploration and discovery. Through robotics, coding, engineering challenges, environmental science, design thinking, and hands-on makerspace experiences, curiosity becomes a catalyst for growth. Students are encouraged not only to seek solutions but to ask meaningful questions. The result is an educational experience that develops confidence, creativity, and resilience while preparing students to navigate an ever-changing world.
Graduation serves as a celebration of that journey—a moment where students are recognized not only for what they have learned, but for who they are becoming.
The Senior Class of 2026 represents the promise and impact of a Barrett education carried forward into the world. These graduates leave with far more than completed coursework and academic accomplishments. They depart with experience in leadership, communication, collaboration, and independent thinking—skills that will serve them long after graduation day.
Throughout their years at The Barrett School, students have been encouraged to think deeply, engage thoughtfully, and approach challenges with confidence.Their educational experience has combined rigorous academics with opportunities to innovate, create, and lead. By integrating advanced STEM education, entrepreneurship, artificial intelligence, and real-world problem solving, Barrett prepares students not only for college acceptance, but for meaningful contributions in a rapidly evolving future.
Graduation marks both a conclusion and a beginning. It celebrates years of dedication, perseverance, friendships, presentations, projects, and personal growth while opening the door to new opportunities ahead. As graduates cross the stage, they carry with them the knowledge that learning is not confined to a classroom—it is a lifelong pursuit fueled by curiosity and purpose.
The Kindergarten Graduation of 2026 offered a different kind of celebration, yet carried the same significance. For these young learners, the ceremony honored first friendships, emerging independence, early reading achievements, creative exploration, and growing confidence. It was a joyful reminder that every future success begins with a first step.
The kindergarten graduates embodied the excitement of discovery. Their milestone reflected countless moments of courage and growth: asking questions, sharing ideas, solving problems, reading aloud, and learning that mistakes are often the beginning of understanding. These experiences lay the foundation for a lifelong love of learning.
Together, the senior and kindergarten ceremonies beautifully illustrated the full Barrett journey. One group stood on the threshold of adulthood, preparing for college, careers, and future endeavors. The other had only just begun to discover the possibilities that education can unlock.
Connecting both groups was the school's enduring promise: every child known, every mind challenged, and every future inspired. For families, faculty, and friends, graduation day served as a powerful reminder that education is not a one-size-fitsall experience. At The Barrett School, each student's path is intentionally shaped by curiosity, character, innovation, and belonging—creating confident learners prepared to thrive in every chapter ahead.
“When education is tailored to the child, every milestone matters. The Barrett School inspires students to learn confidently, think boldly, and lead purposefully toward their future”.
As the celebrations concluded, The Barrett School community looked ahead with gratitude, pride, and anticipation for the future. Graduation 2026 reflected the school's belief that education should be personal, purposeful, and forward-thinking. Whether a student is learning to read, building a robot, exploring environmental science, participating in dual enrollment, or preparing for life after high school, every step matters.
The senior class demonstrated what can happen when curiosity, perseverance, and opportunity are nurtured over time. The kindergarten class reminded everyone where that journey begins—with wonder, encouragement, and the confidence to try something new.
Throughout the day, families witnessed the impact of meaningful mentorship, small class sizes, and a culture that values both academic excellence and the whole child. Graduation was more than a celebration of achievement; it was a portrait of growth, belonging, resilience, and possibility.
As The Barrett School continues to prepare the next generation of leaders, innovators, creators, and problem-solvers, it remains committed to helping every student discover a path uniquely their own. Discover how Education, Tailored to the Child™ can help your student thrive. Schedule a campus visit and learn more about The Barrett School's innovative approach to personalized learning, advanced academics, and future-focused education.
Glorious Purpose in Ice Cream
Crafting a Concept That Delivers Nostalgic Flavor with an Elevated Twist
Ice cream has always been more than a dessert—it’s a memory. Think back to childhood summers, family gatherings, and celebrations with parents, grandparents, cousins, and friends.You may not remember the exact flavor you chose, but you almost certainly remember how it made you feel.
That sense of nostalgia isn't simply because we were younger. In many ways, ice cream itself was different.Traditional recipes relied on simple, high-quality ingredients that created the rich, creamy texture generations grew up loving.Over time, many commercial ice creams shifted toward lower-cost alternatives. Ingredients like egg yolks, once the standard stabilizer, were replaced with additives such as xanthan gum, guar gum, carrageenan, and dextrose. Cane sugar often gave way to corn syrup, while real fruit was substituted with artificial or heavily processed flavorings.
At Glorious Purpose, bringing back that authentic experience starts with honoring the fundamentals. Every batch is crafted with a 10% butterfat content— the legal standard required to call a frozen dessert true ice cream—and stabilized with egg yolks to achieve the indulgent
texture and flavor that defined classic ice cream generations ago.
Vanilla remains the world's most beloved flavor, proving that timeless classics never go out of style. But what happens when you take a champion and elevate it even further? Alongside traditional favorites like sprinkles and Oreo crumble, Glorious Purpose introduces distinctive flavor combinations and premium ingredients rarely found in the Florida Panhandle.
Some of the specialty sauces are sourced directly from Italy, reflecting a commitment to quality that extends beyond borders. By carefully selecting ingredients from producers who maintain traditional food standards, Glorious Purpose transforms a simple scoop into an unforgettable culinary experience. The result is ice cream that feels both familiar and exciting—a perfect blend of nostalgia and innovation. From classic favorites to globally inspired creations, Glorious Purpose serves handcrafted ice cream made with premium ingredients, authentic recipes, and a passion for unforgettable flavor. Visit us today at https://www.gtgicecream.com and experience the difference quality makes—one scoop at a time.
“Every
scoop brings back the magic of yesterday while elevating the flavor of today.”
Pets & Professionals
More Than a Mascot: How Abaco Inspired a Mission of Wellness, Community, and Giving Back
At The Alice, community is built on connection. It lives in conversations between couples, families, entrepreneurs, and creatives, and in the welcoming atmosphere that makes people feel at home the moment they arrive. Abaco embodies that spirit. As The Alice’s emotional support dog, Abaco has become a beloved member of the community. Whether greeting visitors, offering quiet companionship during busy workdays, or simply bringing a smile to someone’s face, his presence has a remarkable way of transforming a space. But long before becoming a daily fixture at The Alice, Abaco inspired a much larger mission rooted in wellness, transparency, and care for pets and the people who love them.
After Abaco experienced health issues, his dog mom, Kristin Sullivan, General Manager of The Alice, began researching the ingredients commonly found in candles, room sprays, and fragrance products. Concerned by the number of potentially harmful ingredients found in many household products, she set out to create safer alternatives. Kristin traveled to Europe and partnered with Moments Candle Company to develop a line of pet-conscious candles, room sprays, hand sanitizers, and essential oils made with carefully selected ingredients. The result was The Stinky Pet Co., launched in 2022 to help pet-loving families enjoy beautiful fragrances without compromising the health of their homes. While the brand developed a loyal following, rising tariffs and production costs eventually led Kristin to place the company on hold. On August 9, Kristin and Abaco will donate the remaining inventory to benefit the PAWS fundraiser at The Alice, allowing the brand’s final chapter to support animals in need and continue its mission of giving back.
Kristin Sullivan and Abaco
Angie & Brian Davis and Dudley
Angie’s favorite title is simply “Mom” to Dudley, the English Cream Golden Retriever she and Brian affectionately call their baby child. Dudley, a highly trained service dog who turns four this November, is beloved for his gentle nature, intelligence, and playful personality. Whether chasing tennis balls, enjoying beach walks, seeking belly rubs, or keeping an eye on the squirrels in the backyard, Dudley brings joy to every day and is at the heart of countless family memories. That same spirit of care, compassion, and connection extends into Angie Davis’s professional life as Managing Partner and Marketing Director of Glow Health and Wellness. Alongside her husband, Brian Davis, and business partner and Medical Director, Casey Posey, MSN, APRN-BC, Angie helps lead the clinic’s growth, marketing, patient experience, and community outreach efforts. Glow Health and Wellness provides a comprehensive range of services including primary care, functional medicine, women’s and men’s hormone therapy, thyroid health management, medical weight loss, PCOS treatment, IV therapy, and aesthetics. With telehealth services licensed in Florida and Alabama, and Arkansas coming soon, the practice continues expanding its reach while remaining committed to personalized care. Drawing on more than two decades of entrepreneurial experience, Angie is passionate about helping patients feel heard, valued, and supported throughout their wellness journeys. Brian, a retired veteran and entrepreneur, proudly serves as the self-proclaimed “CEO of Everything Casey and Angie Don’t Want To Do or Don’t Know How To Do,” keeping operations running smoothly behind the scenes. Together, Angie, Brian, Casey, and Dudley have helped create a culture centered on improving lives through compassionate, patient-focused healthcare
“Helping people feel heard, valued, and supported is at the heart of everything we do at Glow Health and Wellness.”
-Angie Davis
Bryan & Angie and Dudley Bri Garofalo
Heather Williams-
Cavaretta, Broly and B
People are often surprised to learn that two dogs were the inspiration for a lifelong development platform — but that’s exactly how it worked out for me. I’m Heather Williams-Cavaretta, founder of H Williams LLC and proud dog mom to Broly and B, two adventurous Australian Shepherds who’ve become unlikely ambassadors for everything I believe about lifelong growth.
Broly and B live for the outdoors — traveling, boating, swimming, and playing. Broly herds cows; B just barks at them. Broly keeps a watchful eye on the bayou, sounding off at every bird and passing boat, while B is happiest with her toys or fetching things out of the water. They’re a perfect match for me, because when I’m not working, you’ll find me gardening, fishing, hiking, boating, or hunting for fossils with my pups — anything that brings me outdoors and challenges me mentally and physically. I firmly believe that connection with nature is necessary for a balanced and fulfilled life.
This love of exploring is the thread through our platform. It’s the heartbeat of Broly and B’s Trailblazing Tails, our bilingual (English and Spanish) picture-book series that encourages children to go outdoors and to interact with and respect nature, all while learning a second language. The first books arrive this fall for the holidays, with the pups’ social-media adventures launching this summer.
From there, the platform grows up alongside its readers. My husband, son Corey and I help close the gap classrooms tend to skip in The Missing Class: From Making Your Bed to Managing Your Life, building everyday skills from the early teen years onward. That foundation carries into our Young Leaders Program and Skills Dashboard, that helps young adults and emerging professionals build and manage real-world competencies. And all of it flows into The Cultivated Life, weaving faith, family, gardening, and personal growth into an intentional, ever-growing holistic life.
Heather Williams-Cavaretta ,Broly and B,
“From a child’s first outdoor adventure to a young adult’s journey toward purpose, our mission is simple: inspire lifelong growth, meaningful experiences, and the confidence to live a cultivated life.”
Sonia and Brian Petrucci, Caring for Community, One Paw at a Time
We are delighted to feature Sonia and Brian Petrucci, owners of SoWal Pharmacy, whose story beautifully reflects the connection between family, community, and the animals that enrich our lives. For Sonia and Brian, caring for others extends far beyond their professional roles. At home, they share their lives with seven beloved pets who bring daily joy, laughter, and companionship. Their three dogs— Roscoe, Coco, and Roxie—are treasured family members, while their four cats— Ash, Mizzkit, Flash, and Stubby—each contribute their own unique personality to the lively Petrucci household. Among them, Coco, their fluffy white Schnoodle, has become a constant source of affection and entertainment. Whether greeting family members at the door or curling up nearby after a busy day, Coco embodies the unconditional love that pets so effortlessly provide. That appreciation for animals naturally influences the way Sonia and Brian connect with the community. As longtime pet owners, they understand the important role pets play in families and recognize that caring for animals is often just as meaningful as caring for people.
“Pets teach us unconditional love, loyalty, compassion, and the importance of living joyfully every day,” says Sonia Petrucci
Sonia Petrucci & Coco
CROWNS, CONFIDENCE, COMMUNITY
Red, White & Royal Pageant celebrates patriotism, achievement, and confidence-building
ARTICLE BY TAYLOR HENLEY PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMERALD BLUE
PHOTOGRAPHY LLC
The Red, White & Royal Pageant, hosted by Bling Queens Pageants at the Walton County Fairgrounds, brought together contestants from across Florida and beyond for a day of fun, friendship, and competition. Participants showcased confidence, personality, and style while creating unforgettable memories in a supportive, family-friendly atmosphere.
The event featured exciting competitions including Fun Fashion, Nautical Outfit of Choice, and the Miss/Mr. Hometown Optional Competition. Contestants of all ages impressed the audience with creativity, enthusiasm, and stage presence. A special highlight was welcoming visiting royalty from pageant
1: Contestant -Sailor White & Blue theme 2: Ladies Leadership Luncheon members 3: Contestant -Red white Blue/Patriotic Fun Fashion Theme 4: Contestant -White & Blue theme 5: Winner of the Red, White & Royal Pageant 6: Ladies Leadership Luncheon members 7: Contestant -Sailor White & Navy theme
systems across the region, recognizing titleholders dedicated to community service and leadership.
Guests enjoyed meeting Princess Tiana, exploring vendor booths, and cooling off with frozen treats from Gelu Destin. The event's success was made possible through the support of sponsors including Ladies Leadership Luncheon Org., Covenant Cookie Creations LLC, Karin Hands In Home Care, Coastal Nest Fencing, Farrow Contracting, Emerald Coast Fabrication, Gelu Destin, and media partner Destin City Lifestyle Magazine.
Adding to the excitement, families gathered throughout the day to cheer on contestants, celebrate achievements, and capture special moments. The pageant provided a positive environment where participants could build self-esteem, develop public speaking skills, and form lasting friendships while embracing personal growth and community involvement.
Congratulations to every contestant who earned a crown, title, and newfound confidence. We look forward to the Sunflower Classic Pageant on September 26, 2026.
8: Contestant Melanie C -Sailor theme 9: Ladies Leadership Luncheon members as contestants 10: Contestant-Blue Royal 11: Taylor Henley & Michele Pavlich 12: Contestant -Red ,White & Blue theme Fun Fashion 13: Contestant-Red Royal 14: Contestant-Sailor Theme
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TREY & KATIE KENNEDY
ON MARRIAGE, KIDS, AND THE COMEDY OF REAL LIFE
Trey Kennedy makes a living finding comedy in regular life. Marriage. Toddlers. Yoga pants. The Thursday-night scramble between school dropoffs, soccer practice, and whatever has to be done by morning. Twelve years in, it shows: millions of followers across every platform, three stand-up specials, a sold-out Relatable Tour, and a style of humor fans send each other captioned, “Are you watching me?” He delivers the kind of comedy that travels because everyone’s living some version of it.
Katie, his wife of six years, is a former biomedical engineer who also built a modeling career. She’s now raising their kids and co-hosting Correct Opinions alongside Trey — the show where the two of them swap takes on marriage, parenting, and whatever came up that week.
Trey has been at this longer than people realize. An Edmond, Oklahoma kid who grew up playing basketball described himself as a “shy kid who never thought he’d be an entertainer.” He started making videos while attending Oklahoma State University. After building millions of followers on Vine before the platform shut down, he gave himself six months on Instagram and Facebook to see whether he could rebuild from zero. He did. Stand-up soon followed. His first special, Are You For Real?, streams on YouTube; the second, Grow Up, on Amazon Prime; the third, built around the Relatable Tour, wrapped earlier this year. “I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now,” he says. A slow climb, made one bit at a time.
ARTICLE BY KALI KASPRZYK
JANIE
“I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now.”
Most of what Trey writes lately starts in his own kitchen. Thomas is three and a half, and he is, in his father’s words, “a movie.” He narrates his own life from the moment his eyes open and mispronounces words in ways his parents now repeat to each other because no one else would believe them. His younger sister, Eva, is what Katie calls “the calm one.” With a third now in the mix, the Kennedys are officially outnumbered.
After six years of marriage, Trey and Katie have learned that the partnership runs best when it gets its own time on the calendar. So once a week, they leave the kids with a sitter and go out for coffee. “You need a system,” Katie says. “It’s about taking time to look each other in the eye. Not the kids. Not the cameras. Just each other.”
The same instinct shapes the work. Most of Trey’s trial and error happens onstage or on Instagram, but the first read is always Katie’s. “There’s only been one time ever I’ve had to be like, ‘you’re not doing that,’” she says. The rest of the time, she just laughs first.
FEATURING TREY & KATIE KENNEDY
Trey and Katie talk about marriage, parenting, and the moments that don’t make the Instagram feed.
Watch or listen to the full conversation wherever you get your podcasts.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY
JONES HAIR & MAKEUP BY MIKAYLA CRANE
