Gulf Coast, AL March 2024

HOME is where our story begins...

Hello neighbors,

Welcome to our HOME Issue. Our homes are sanctuaries, cherished reflections of our lives.

This issue celebrates the essence of home, emphasizing the importance of upkeep and the myriad of services that play a pivotal role in maintaining our domestic sanctuaries. Let our pages guide you through the journey of creating a home that not only withstands the test of time but becomes a testament to the love and care invested in it.

In this issue, we shine a spotlight on local service providers dedicated to preserving and enhancing our homes. From builders, expert home maintenance, and skilled professionals in our community, we aim to guide you in making informed choices for your home.

Our Coastal environment demands a special kind of care- protection against the elements, fortification against wear and storms, and enhancement of their natural beauty. Let's invest in the longevity and beauty of our homes, supporting local businesses that understand our unique home needs.

Let's ensure that our homes remain beacons of comfort, resilience, and pride.

Happy Easter to you and yours,

Thank you for welcoming us into your home and lives, every month, see you around town…

Love local, live locally, and spend locally.

Until next month…

ASHLEY ROBERTS, PUBLISHER @GULF_COAST_CITYLIFESTYLE

March 2024

Ashley

Lillian

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1, 3, 5: OB Wildlife Center & Management Program patched up this bald eagle and released him. 2, 4, 6, 7: Severance Knight Gala was an incredible night of coming together to stop child trafficking.

OBWC

OBWC

OBWC

8: Severance Knight Gala was an incredible night of coming together to stop child trafficking. 9-13: Treasures of the Isle had their annual Masquerade Ball and it was very regal. 14: Wade Waldrop, the new Orange Beach head football coach. Go Makos...

15-17, 19, 21: The Maidens in Pink Stilettos hosted their Annual MIPS Masquerade Mardi Gras season kick-off party. 18: Janel Hawkins, founder of Sand Castle University spoke to Rotary Club of GS/OB. 20: Tim Harry, CEO of Severance Security spoke to Rotary about his passion to stop child-trafficking.

MIPS

MIPS

MIPS

MIPS

MIPS

ROTARY GS/OB

ROTARY GS/OB

EyeSkyVP offers professional first Impressions...

If you're planning to sell your property, you want to make sure you give potential buyers the best possible impression. Professional photography can highlight your property's best features and present it in the most attractive light. At EyeSkyVP, they specialize in providing high-quality photography services that can help you make a great first impression on potential buyers. Contact them today to learn more about how EyeSky can help you sell your property. 800.618.7735

Scan to read more

Perfection Pool Cleaning Accepting New Customers

Perfection Pool Cleaning not only keeps the water clear and free of debris but also helps prevent the growth of algae and bacteria. From skimming the surface to vacuuming the bottom, pool cleaning involves various tasks to ensure optimal water quality while also maintaining proper chemical balance and regularly servicing the pool equipment which is crucial for efficient cleaning. With meticulous pool service, you can enjoy a sparkling clean and refreshing swimming experience. 251.407.6280

Scan to read more

ABIDE is open

Looking for pieces that you won’t also see on everyone else? Here’s your place! Specializing in beautifully structured clothing in the latest prints and colors, Abide Boutique has opened in Orange Beach in the Publix shopping center. They carry the latest in women’s clothes, shoes, and accessories and even some mommy and me sets! You can find anything from casual shorts to a long formal gown, and everything in between. They would love to style you!

Scan to read more

Want to be featured?

Introducing SWAG Window Designs

Elevating Homes with Custom Shades, Shutters, Draperies, and Automations.

Do you have SWAG in your life? SWAG Window Designs is a premiere window treatment company that specializes in creating custom shades, shutters, draperies, and automation. With a dedicated team and a passion for their craft, they are revolutionizing the way homeowners along the Gulf Coast experience their living spaces.

At SWAG, they understand that windows are more than just openings to the outside world. They are an opportunity to enhance the aesthetic appeal, functionality, and comfort of a home. With their expertise and attention to detail, they go above and beyond to provide their clients with tailored solutions that reflect their unique styles and preferences.

SWAG is committed to staying ahead of the curve. Constantly exploring new trends and cutting-edge technologies offering their clients the latest options. From automated shades and shutters to innovative drapery systems, they bring a touch of modernity and convenience to every project they undertake.

One of the keys to their success lies in their ability to showcase their team and work through their trendy reels. SWAG understands the power of visual storytelling and uses it to captivate its audience. Sharing glimpses of their talented team in action and highlighting their completed projects creates a sense of trust and excitement among potential clients.  Serving homeowners all along the Gulf Coast, their passion for business and dedication to customer satisfaction is evident in every interaction. No matter the size, they approach each job with the same level of enthusiasm and professionalism.

If you want to improve your home’s ambiance and functionality, turn to SWAG Window Designs. With their vast array of custom shades, shutters, draperies, and automation, they have the perfect solution to transform your living space into a haven of style and comfort. Experience the difference that SWAG Window Designs brings to the world of window treatments and create a home that truly reflects your unique style and personality.  Shade With Amazing Grace!

ARTICLE BY LILLIAN TAYLOR

“We

got SWAG, do you?”

Who are you investing for?

Investing is about more than money, sometimes it’s about people.

Who are you investing for?

Investing is about more than money, sometimes it’s about people. That’s why at Edward Jones we’ll work together to understand your goals—what you’re saving for or who you’re saving for.

That’s why at Edward Jones we’ll work together to understand your goals-what you’re saving for or who you’re saving for.

Get in touch today to discuss what’s really important: your family.

Get in touch today to discuss what’s really important: family.

Cox Pools

THE SOUTH’S PREMIER POOL BUILDER

Cox Pools is a name synonymous with excellence in the pool-building industry. As the largest and oldest pool builder in the South and a member of the prestigious Master Pool Guild, they have been transforming outdoor spaces into stunning aquatic retreats for over 65 years. With a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, Cox Pools offers a wide range of pool styles to suit every need and preference.

Their dedication to providing exceptional pool-building services tailored to their client’s requests sets them apart. Whether it’s designing and constructing custom pools or renovating and maintaining existing ones, their experienced team ensures that every pool they build makes a splash with its owners. With Cox Pools, you can trust that your dream pool will become a reality.

ARTICLE BY LILIAN TAYLOR | PHOTOGRAPHY BY COX POOLS

As a local, family-owned, and operated company, Cox Pools takes pride in its deep roots in the community. Their commitment to customer satisfaction is further reinforced by their premium service guarantee. When you choose Cox Pools, you have peace of mind.

If you’re ready to transform your outdoor space into a luxurious oasis, look no further than Cox Pools. The South’s trusted choice for all your pool building and maintenance needs.

At EyeSkyVP, we understand the importance of exceptional media in today’s technology-driven world. That’s why we provide top-quality professional photography, videography, and film services to individuals and businesses alike. Our team of experts has the right equipment and a creative eye to capture your vision and bring it to life.

eyeskyvp.com |

18.7735

Get Ready To Dive Into A World Of Artistic Discovery At Pink Pelican Art Gallery!

Prepare to be blown away by the incredible works of 28 exceptionally talented artists. Get lost in our gallery’s extensive collection of vibrant paintings, captivating sculptures, dazzling blown glass, stunning jewelry, and even hand-made candles that will light up your life!

Whether you’re on the hunt for a masterpiece to adorn your walls or a one-of-a-kind gift that will make jaws drop, our gallery is the place to be. Swing by Wednesday through Saturday, 11am - 4pm, and let the irresistible pink door lead you to a whimsical retail adventure that will leave you grinning from ear to ear. Don’t miss out on the fun at Pink Pelican Art Gallery!

Pink Pelican Art Gallerywhere art meets attitude!

Open Wednesday - Saturday, 11am - 4pm

24823 CANAL

ARTICLE BY LILLIAN TAYLOR

EYESKY VIDEO & PHOTOGRAPHY

Coastal Alabama Construction & Development

Building Your Dreams

Matt Holt & Reggie Pulliam, owners of Coastal Alabama Construction and Development are revolutionizing building and remodels as we know it. With a service area that spans all along the Gulf Coast, the dynamic duo saw a need and decided together, to fill that need.

Matt Holt is a professional craftsman with years of experience in home construction and renovation. After Hurricane Sally, he put his skills to use rebuilding and remodeling damaged homes.

Reggie Pulliam, previous owner of Coastal Alabama Insurance, and now co-founder of Coastal Alabama Construction and Development; saw firsthand in the aftermath of Hurricane Sally, the devastation and havoc wreaked; having helped hundreds of clients and friends recover from the disaster.

Recovering from the storm they realized Gulf Shores and the surrounding area were full of the industries’ best and brightest contractors, but when it came to combining workmanship and documenting damage, providing estimates, or packaging a full-service solution from new construction builds to remodeling; many fell short, adding further uncertainty and confusion for those already affected. So began Coastal Alabama Construction and Development. “With the use of technology such as our 3D LIDAR camera (Pro 3) through Matterport, we have the ability to communicate the critical scope of work to our clients and subcontractors and give our clients the ability to leave notes for us for specific items to be kept/moved/ changed, etc. It also allows us to do before and after scans of the house for making floor plans, providing insurance documentation, and design integration. We saw a need and decided to fill that need. Since coming together and implementing the latest in technology, utilizing the industry’s finest contractors and tradesmen, we have a system in place that never compromises

the quality of materials used or the workmanship of the services delivered. We do it all. From remodeling to new construction, we cater to our client’s needs, wants, and most importantly their best interests. We do this by combining technology, planning, and implementation; while also staying up to date with the industry’s latest in code requirements, permitting, and engineering guidelines.” Matt Holt.

Coastal Alabama Construction and Development is a renowned company that prides itself on turning its clients’ dreams into reality. With a strong commitment to excellence and the utilization of innovations in technology, this company has set the bar high for the construction and remodeling process. The technology and systems used, allow clients and their contractors to be involved in every step of the build or renovation. “We enjoy taking our clients through the entire process and they enjoy it too. There are progress pictures and notes throughout each step of the way from beginning to end. Our contractors are assigned work and upload progress. There is constant communication and with that accountability, we’re able to deliver a superior service. We have clients that live here and clients that live states away. Regardless of where they are located, they have a very hands-on ability to see the progress in real-time that is updated daily, request changes, and comment or ask questions” says Matt.

One of the key advantages of Coastal Alabama Construction and Development’s innovative approach is the ability to not only walk clients through the build process step by step, before the project begins, but also to set realistic expectations, timelines, and explanations of the costs. Breaking down each item, costs associated with labor, permits, planning phases, the ordering process for the timeline, execution of the project, etc. This effective

communication ensures that clients’ visions are accurately translated into the end result. “We never want our client to look at the invoice or project and not understand exactly what they’re paying for or seeing the progress of their vision coming to life.”

The company recognizes that quality is of utmost importance when it comes to building or remodeling homes and refuses to settle. Coastal Alabama Construction and Development uses superior products and offers the best in service, and installation. Ensuring that their clients receive a finished product that is built to last. As licensed builders, and using the best in contractors, they are fully insured, providing their clients with peace of mind throughout the process.

In today’s fast-paced world, we know that time is a valuable asset and with some projects, time is of the essence. Coastal Alabama Construction and Development understands the importance of meeting strict timeline schedules. They work closely to ensure that projects are completed within the agreed-upon timeframes. “We want to keep things as streamlined as possible and we do this by project planning

effectively for each step.” This transparent approach allows clients to stay connected and make any necessary adjustments.

Taking pride in its collaborative approach to building. They work hand in hand with clients, contractors, and various professionals such as drafters and engineers to create custom designs that fulfill their client’s unique requirements. By involving all stakeholders from the beginning through to the end, Coastal Alabama Construction and Development ensures that every aspect of the construction project is meticulously planned and executed.

“Whether it’s obtaining permits, navigating zoning regulations, insurance requirements, or managing budgets, we’re there every step of the way.” Matt Holt.

Coastal Alabama Construction and Development sets the standard for excellence in the construction industry. Trust Coastal Alabama Construction and Development to bring your vision to life and contact them today.

Coastal Alabama

Construction & Development

cacdllc.com

“We build your dream”

Termite Inspection

Termite Bonding

Preventing DRYER FIRES

DRYER VENT WIZARD IS SAVING THE DAY AND HOMES

ARTICLE BY LILLIAN TAYLOR PHOTOGRAPHY BY SWIGER STUDIO- JD SWIGER

Jeff and Brooke Hotchkiss are providing a service within the community that is growing in demand while simultaneously having tapped into a niche market. After two decades of working in city government, Jeff and his wife Brooke Hotchkiss decided to make Gulf Shores home. The couple, having worked alongside and supporting local fire departments, emergency management operations and FEMA knew all too well the hazards that improperly functioning and installed dyers can have and how important it is to not only keep clean but maintained.

“Every single time we get a call to come out and do an inspection, we find something.” Says Jeff. “You wouldn’t believe what we’ve come across,” says Brooke.

Most homeowners are familiar with routine home inspections that occur when purchasing a home but only some are aware of the importance of dyers and proper ventilation and even less aware of the proper installation that is recommended.

The solution to the issue is a 10-point inspection that covers a variety of things such as inspection of the dryer itself, proper heating temperatures, vacuum pressure for the unit, venting, proper ventilation lines, yearly cleaning, maintenance, and more.

“We usually get a call when a customer starts experiencing issues with their dryer,” says Brooke. Customers often experience longer drying times, and overheating which can lead to home fires, hazardous hookups, smells of mold or mildew that have far-reaching impacts on health, or the length of time it takes to dry a load.

Dryer Vent Wizard is here to help you keep your home safe and running smoothly. For more information or to schedule an appointment call 251-275-6587 or visit them online at www.dryerventwizard.com

A collection of items often found in dryer vents.

Dax Smith Cable Rail Systems is a trusted provider of cable rail solutions, catering to both residential and commercial properties along the Gulf Coast. With a focus on durability, low maintenance, and the use of high-end quality stainless steel, there is a wide range of options to transform your space.

The key benefits are their strength and longevity. Built to withstand the harsh coastal environment, systems are designed to last for years with minimal maintenance. The use of stainless steel ensures that your railings will remain in excellent condition even in saltwater environments.

Beyond their durability, cable rail systems also offer a unique advantage; opening the view previously overshadowed by the traditional railing systems, a sleek and minimalist design of cable railings allows for an unobstructed view while enhancing the aesthetics and appeal of your space. Creating a sense of openness and spaciousness.

Whether you’re a homeowner looking to upgrade your deck or a business owner in need of a stylish railing solution for your commercial property, Dax Smith Cable Rail Systems has you covered.

ARTICLE BY LILLIAN TAYLOR PHOTOGRAPHY BY SCOTTIE MAE PHOTOGRAPHY

As we spring forward this year and get the itch to spruce up our homes, we want you to consider Deluxe Exterior Cleanerz. They are the leading pressure-washing company serving all of Baldwin County. With a commitment to excellence and a reputation for delivering exceptional results, they have been voted Best in Baldwin 2024 for their outstanding pressure washing services. Specializing in a wide range of exterior cleaning solutions, Deluxe Exterior Cleanerz offers everything from house washing to commercial pressure washing, ensuring that every surface shines with a renewed brilliance.

Jared and Ashley Herrell know that using the best equipment and techniques enables them to serve their customers best by effectively removing dirt, grime, mold, and mildew from various surfaces, including driveways, sidewalks, decks, and fences. By utilizing the power of high-pressure water, or soft washing with the right cleaners, they can restore the original beauty of these surfaces, enhancing the overall appearance of any property.

In addition to pressure washing, Deluxe Exterior Cleanerz offers “soft washing” for homes. Over time, a home’s exterior can accumulate dirt, debris, and stains, diminishing its curb appeal. With their expertise in house washing, they can safely and effectively clean the exterior of any home, removing unsightly buildup and restoring its original charm. Their attention to detail and use of specialized products ensure that the process is both effective and safe.

With their wide range of additional services including gutter and window cleaning, Christmas light installation, commercial pressure washing, and parking lot striping; Deluxe Exterior Cleanerz has just what you need to step into Spring with a refreshed home or business. Voted the Best in Baldwin 2024 for pressure washing, their commitment to excellence and range of services have earned them the hearts of their customers and the vote of the people. Visit them on the web at deluxeexteriorcleanerz.com or call 251-424-7061 today. Tell them that Ash and Lil’ sent you.

EVERLAST FLOORCARE

Revolutionizing Homes Along The Gulf Coast with Floorcare

ARTICLE BY LILLIAN TAYLOR PHOTOGRAPHY BY EYESKY VIDEO & PHOTOGRAPHY

Chris Needham, owner and operator of Everlast Floorcare is a leading provider of flooring services, specializing in a variety of solutions to meet the needs of both commercial and residential customers. With a wide range of flooring options, including pool deck resurfacing, SoftCrete, garage floor services, and commercial and residential epoxy flooring; Everlast floorcare is your go-to company for all your flooring needs.

One of the stand-out services offered by Everlast Floorcare is Soft-Crete. Whether you need a pool deck or gym floor resurfaced, Soft-Crete provides a smooth and slip-resistant flooring option that is perfect for commercial and residential settings. This innovative solution combines a blend of rubber and UV-stabilized resin, resulting in a highly durable and long-lasting flooring option.

One of the key advantages of Soft-Crete is its durability. The blend of rubber and resin creates a surface that can withstand heavy foot traffic areas such as pool decks and gym floors. This durability ensures

that your flooring investment will last for years to come, saving you both time and money in the long run.

In addition to its durability, Soft-Crete is also temperature-friendly. It can withstand extreme heat and cold without cracking or warping, making it suitable for outdoor applications such as pool decks. This feature ensures that your pool deck, patio, or gym floor will remain in excellent condition, even in harsh weather conditions.

Furthermore, Soft-Crete is a versatile material flooring option that can be applied to just about any surface. Whether you’re looking for pool deck options, gym floor options, or patios. Soft-Crete can be installed seamlessly, providing a uniform and attractive surface. This versatility allows you to transform any space into a safe and aesthetically pleasing environment.

When it comes to safety, Soft-Crete excels in providing a slip-resistant surface. The rubber blend creates a textured finish that enhances traction, reducing

the risk of slips and falls. This makes SoftCrete an excellent choice for areas where safety is a priority.

With Everlast Floorcare, you can’t go wrong. Providing high-quality flooring options for all your commercial and residential needs. Licensed and insured, serving the Gulf Coast from Mobile to Destin.  Everlast Floorcare is your standout option with durability, flexibility, and slip-resistant options. Create the perfect solution for your needs today with Everlast Floorcare. Visit them on the web at www.everlastfloorcareal.com or call 251-979-1549.

CHRIS NEEDHAM OWNER / OPERATOR

Everlast Floorcare

• Ph: 251-979-1549

• www.everlastfloorcareal.com

• Providing Residential and Commercial floorcare services

• Soft-Crete

• Pool-Deck Resurfacing

• Garage Floor Surfaces

TONE + TEXTURE

STYLE YOUR HOME IN TONES AND TEXTURES WITH DESIGN HELP FROM HOUZZ INTERIOR DESIGN EXPERTS

ARTICLE BY NICOLETTE MARTIN

WOVEN + KNOTTED

LIVING BOHO-CHIC WITH WOVEN TEXTURES AND MACRAMÉ

Decorate your space with handmade textures such as the modern, maker revival of 1970s macramé and year-round tropical feel of wicker. MACRAMÉ Made through knotting instead of weaving, macramé can add a unique touch in many various ways. Houzz contributor Laura Gaskill suggests incorporating it as nursery decor, plant hangers, wall hangings and modern fiber arts. WICKER According to Houzz contributor Yanic Simard, “the best way to really embrace the luxury-cottage appeal of wicker and rattan is to combine different forms of the two in one space... Look for other unexpected places to add a natural twist to your home with a new material woven into your palette.”

AGAINST THE GRAIN

TIPS FOR DECORATING WITH NATURAL MATERIALS

Houzz contributor Katie Treggiden offers many ways to incorporate natural materials and natural-state timber into your home, including using wood to cover one wall in a home for a pleasing accent wall; featuring your firewood as a striking, stacked display; and mixing different types of wood and different finishes in the same space. “A simple way to incorporate the wood trend is to expose structural wooden beams already present in your home,” Katie says. “Instead of painting them or boxing them in, leave them raw or give them a coat of wax to enrich the tones.”

BRIGHTS + WHITES

ADDING TASTEFUL POPS OF COLOR TO YOUR WHITE ROOM

Do you feel like your all-white room is missing something? Houzz contributor Kelly Porter bets what’s missing is energy.

“The best way to add a spark to any space,” she says, “is with bright color.”

Kelly says green is one of the easiest colors to live with, looking organic even in its more vivid tones.

“When searching for the perfect bright green, think springtime—fresh green grass and newly sprouted leaves,” she says. “These greens have lively undertones that will look comfortable and warm in your white space.

Other colors Kelly recommends adding as accents are yellow, royal blue, orange, bluepurple, red-purple and sky blue.

MARCH

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

MARCH 2ND-3RD

Ballyhoo Festival

Gulf State Park Lake Shelby

The Ballyhoo Festival hosts 100 artists. The history of the Poarch Creek Indians is presented on Saturday with a historical narrative and tribal dance in ceremonial regalia. Sunday hosts Early Americana music with a Fiddle/Banjo Competition and performances by some of the best musicians in the Southeast. There is a children’s art pavilion, a variety of food, & art demonstrations. Saturday, March 2nd, 9am-5pm & Sunday, March 3rd, 10am-4pm

MARCH 4TH-5TH

Orange Beach Festival of Art

Coastal Arts Center

The 50th Annual Festival of Art is our Island's first rite of Spring. It is a celebration of visual, performing, musical and culinary arts. This fine arts festival is free with music and entertainment featured on two stages. There will be food available from some of our amazing local restaurants.

MARCH 15TH-17TH

The Wharf Boat and Yacht Show

The Wharf

• Over $100 million in boats and marine products on display

• Consistently the "Top Boat Buying Show" in the northern Gulf Coast

• 120 wet slip boats and yachts on display

• More than 700+ sport & console boats on land

• Something for everyone, from an entry level boater to a seasoned veteran

• Exhibitor displays, instructional seminars and much more, plus live music

MARCH 16TH

FloraBama 11th Annual Beach Run for America's Warriors

Flora-Bama

The 11th Annual Beach Run/Walk for America's Warriors will be held Saturday, March 16th. The start and end point is the Flora-Bama and the run is entirely on the beach. All 5K runners will be headed into Alabama and 1/2 marathon runners will be headed into Florida. 100% of the registration fees will go to the Special Operations Warrior Foundation.

MARCH 23RD

Breakfast with Bunny

Erie H. Meyer Civic Center | 8:00 AM

The Easter Bunny will make a special appearance at 8 am. A traditional pancake breakfast with sausage, eggs, and bacon will be served, and children will have an opportunity to meet and take photos with the Easter Bunny. The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo will also be on sight with a few of their furry friends from the zoo.

MARCH 30TH

The Original German Sausage Festival in Elberta

13052 Main Street, Elberta | 8:00 AM

Join us at the German Sausage Festival with over 200 arts & crafts booths. Carnival rides, polka, country, contemporary and German music will also be provided for entertainment. The sausage festival is a town fund-raiser, spearheaded by Elberta's Volunteer Fire Department in 1978, whose proceeds are used for improving not only the fire department, but the town as well.