850 Business Magazine- April/May 2017

SPECIAL SECTIONS

SANTA ROSA COUNTY BUSINESS JOURNAL NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS 2017

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Tips On Securing Tech Talent Weather Watching Helps Business Rural Communities Get Marketing Help Winston Howell: Snapshot of a Busy CPA

FIXED-BASED OPERATORS KEEP NORTH FLORIDA FLYING

INSIGHT It takes insight to help you win.

So we show up in person.

That’s how we push our technology further and take your solution from ‘good enough’ to greatness. You’ll see our competitors walk away as soon as something works. But we stay present in a way only a local leader can.

Our consultation, training, and support teams collaborate with you face to face to deliver a custom technology solution designed specifically to drive your bottom line— not the average bottom line. By being customer inspired we achieve the insight necessary to take your solution from ‘works fine’ to ‘secures victory’.

We’ve got [what it takes] to help you win.

business solutions

cspire.com/business | 251.459.8999 | suncoast@cspire.com C SpireTM and C Spire Business SolutionsTM are trademarks owned by Cellular South, Inc. Cellular South, Inc. and its affiliates provide products and services under the C SpireTM and C Spire Business SolutionsTM brand. ©2016 C Spire. All rights reserved.

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Congratulations Eastern Shipbuilding We salute you for being awarded the contract to build U.S. Coast Guard cutters.

For 40 years, Eastern Shipbuilding has been an anchor in the region. We commend the company’s commitment to growth and investment. This project will create jobs and increase economic development in Bay County and Northwest Florida for decades to come.

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850 Magazine April – May 2017

IN THIS ISSUE 850 FEATURES

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

On the Cover: Troy Kinsey is a Tallahassee-based reporter who covers the Capitol for Bay News 9 in Tampa and News 13 in Orlando. For a man who covers news throughout Florida, being a private pilot comes in handy. Taking his career to new heights, indeed. Photo by Dave Barfield

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Flying Private Adjacent to Northwest Florida’s major airports and tucked in smaller, out-of-the way airfields, fixed base operators are a boost to the region’s economy by helping to keep private planes flying — including those owned by visitors who might be taking a jaunt to the coast for lunch or dinner or to Tallahassee for a legislative hearing. But their major product isn’t necessarily fuel. It’s more to do with customer service — and rolling out the red carpet for visitors who could bring future business to the area. By Jason Dehart

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W omen Take Flight While women have made great strides in a variety of careers and industries, there is still a gender gap when it comes to female aviators. Tallahassee business partners Lacey Smith and Faith Drewry — cofounders of FL Aviation Center — think today’s women need to see more of their contemporaries making a real, viable, everyday career in aviation. By Jason Dehart

FEMALES IN FLIGHT Lacey Smith and Faith Drewery, co-founders of the Florida Aviation Center, have made it their goal to promote and encourage female pilots.

Photo by DAVE BARFIELD

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850 Magazine April – May 2017

IN THIS ISSUE

60

In This Issue 10 13 14 51 162

From the Publisher Letters to the Editor Business Arena Sound Bytes The Last Word from the Editor

Sponsored Reports SANTA ROSA COUNTY BUSINESS JOURNAL

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Home to one of the largest and most active naval aviation bases in the world, Santa Rosa County’s economy gets a major boost from business that caters to or works with the military. Another huge benefit — a well-trained local workforce ready for companies that choose to relocate there.

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS 2017

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Plan the unforgettable wedding you’ve always dreamed of with the help of our annual wedding guide.

We’ve got ideas for palettes (décor!) and palates (reception food!) as well as tips for organizing every aspect of your big day with the help of bride-friendly apps.

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Corridors

THE 850 LIFE

CAPITAL

17 Winston Howell changed his college major 14 times before settling on accounting.

Today he is the managing shareholder of the fastgrowing Thomas Howell Ferguson CPAs.

54 Entrepreneur Ed Mansouri is the driving force behind Ucompass, the company that created the hardware and software powering the Florida Virtual School. But his heart has always been in meteorology, and he is starting up another company, WeatherSTEM, which has a wide variety of uses for business and everyday life.

MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES 18 Talent is the No. 1 commodity in the business of technology. There a few major factors that can help businesses acquire and retain the best and brightest in our community.

GUEST COLUMN 21 Alyssa McShane has some words of advice why its important for everyone to begin their business career working for a small company.

Special Section DEAL ESTATE

33 What’s trending, what’s selling and what’s hot to buy in the 850? Find out here.

FORGOTTEN COAST AND I-10 56 Several communities in Northwest Florida are working to better themselves with the help of a program provided through the state’s Department of Economic Opportunity. Called Competitive Florida, among the areas benefitting are DeFuniak Springs, Century, Port St. Joe and Madison County.

BAY 60 Founded in the mid-1900s, the EF San Juan company in Youngstown is being run by the third generation of the family. What was once a small woodworking operation has turned into a state of the art facility that produces products used worldwide.

BRUCE PALMER (17) AND MICHAEL BOOINI (60)

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Gold I O N A L

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I N T E R N E T

Y O U R

I N T E R N E T

B A N K

B A N K

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North Florida’s Premier Google AdWords Agency

850 THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE OF NORTHWEST FLORIDA

April – May 2017

Vol. 9, No. 4

PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER BRIAN E. ROWLAND EDITORIAL DIRECTOR OF EDITORIAL SERVICES Steve Bornhoft EDITOR Linda Kleindienst SENIOR STAFF WRITER Jason Dehart EDITORIAL COORDINATOR Rebecca Padgett ASSISTANT TO DIRECTOR OF EDITORIAL SERVICES Kim Harris Thacker CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Matt Algarin, Chay D. Baxley, Rosanne Dunkelberger, Nick Farrell, Tisha Crews Keller, Alissa McShane, Karen Murphy, David Tortorano EDITORIAL INTERN Kirstin Redfield COPY EDITOR Barry Ray

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CREATIVE CREATIVE DIRECTOR Lawrence Davidson DIRECTOR OF PRODUCTION AND TECHNOLOGY Daniel Vitter SENIOR ART DIRECTOR Saige Roberts ART DIRECTOR Jennifer Ekrut PUBLICATION DESIGNERS Charles Bakofsky, Shruti Shah GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Meredith Brooks, Sarah Mitchell DIGITAL PRODUCTION SPECIALIST Chelsea Moore CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Dave Barfield, Michael Booini, Lawrence Davidson, Scott Holstein, Kay Meyer, Chelsea Moore, Erika Nortemann, Bruce Palmer SALES, MARKETING & EVENTS VICE PRESIDENT/CORPORATE DEVELOPMENT McKenzie Burleigh Lohbeck DIRECTOR OF NEW BUSINESS Daniel Parisi AD SERVICES COORDINATORS Tracy Mulligan, Lisa Sostre ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Julie Door, Darla Harrison, Rhonda Lynn Murray, Dan Parker, Linda Powell, Sarah Scott, Brianna Webb, Lori Magee Yeaton EVENTS AND SPECIAL PROJECTS COORDINATOR Mandy Chapman INTEGRATED MARKETING SPECIALIST Jennifer Ireland INTEGRATED MARKETING COORDINATOR Bria Blossom SALES AND EVENTS ASSOCIATE Mackenzie Ligas SALES, MARKETING AND EVENTS INTERN Alexandra Matthews OPERATIONS ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES/HUMAN RESOURCE COORDINATOR Marah Rhone CORPORATE CLIENT LIAISON Sara Goldfarb CLIENT SERVICES REPRESENTATIVE/PRODUCTION SPECIALIST Melinda Lanigan STAFF ACCOUNTANT Jackie Burns ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Lisa Snell RECEPTIONIST Alyssa Cunningham

DIGITAL SERVICES 850 BUSINESS MAGAZINE 850businessmagazine.com, facebook.com/850bizmag, twitter.com/850bizmag, linkedin.com/company/850-business-magazine ROWLAND PUBLISHING rowlandpublishing.com SUBSCRIPTIONS A one-year (6 issues) subscription is $30. To purchase, call (850) 878-0554 or go online to 850businessmagazine.com. Single copies are $4.95 and may be purchased at Barnes & Noble and Books-A-Million in Tallahassee, Fort Walton Beach, Destin, Panama City, Pensacola and at our Tallahassee office.

850 Magazine is published bi-monthly by Rowland Publishing, Inc. 1932 Miccosukee Road, Tallahassee, FL 32308.

850/878-0554. 850 Magazine and Rowland Publishing, Inc. are not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photography or artwork. Editorial contributions are welcomed and encouraged but will not be returned. 850 Magazine reserves the right to publish any letters to the editor. Copyright April 2017 850 Magazine, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Member of three Chambers of Commerce throughout the region.

TUE, APRIL 18

7 P.M. (DOORS OPEN AT 6:30 P.M.)

WSRE JEAN & PAUL AMOS PERFORMANCE STUDIO free admission

PENSACOLA STATE COLLEGE 1000 COLLEGE BOULEVARD PENSACOLA reservations required free book for the first 100 to register at wsre.org/speakers

ROBERT PUTNAM Harvard University professor of public policy and bestselling author, Robert Putnam is a leading expert on inequality and opportunity in America. His latest book, Our Kids: The American Dream in Crisis, chronicles the growing gap in opportunity for American youth and examines why fewer Americans today have the chance for upward mobility. In his talk, he will share ideas for diminishing this opportunity gap for Our Kids.

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From the Publisher

FINDING HAPPINESS Recently, I watched a show on HBO hosted by Bryant Gumbel, who was joined by an Ivy League psychologist. Jointly, the two men interviewed two accomplished individuals — a retired Navy SEAL and a former professional football player.

BRIAN ROWLAND browland@rowlandpublishing.com

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PHOTO BY SCOTT HOLSTEIN

The interviewees were both in their early 30s and, for 10 years, had led highoctane, adrenalin-filled lives before subsequently experiencing severe depression and resorting to alcohol and drugs as coping mechanisms following their abrupt retirements.

Fortunately, the former SEAL and the NFL veteran received interventions at the right time and successfully recovered. In response to questions from Gumbel and the psychologist, they shared what they did to regain a sense of contentment in their dayto-day lives. Most importantly, they talked about learning to actively create a sense of happiness and well-being each day.

Attaining and maintaining happiness, they said, is a challenge that needs to be addressed and nurtured continuously.

The psychologist explained that every individual has a unique set of five or six daily activities that, for him or for her, result in a sense of happiness or overall contentment.

My list includes going out on the lake with my wife, Cherie, and catching a sunset over some conversation; going out for dinner; taking a long walk with my dogs; and arriving at the office an hour before others do and having a cup of coffee in silence while strategically thinking about the publishing business.

The psychologist stressed that each of these activities on our lists promotes a sense of happiness even though none is “monumental.”

The SEAL, the football player and all of us, if we are to bring about happiness, need to infuse each day with a few simple things that reliably make us feel relaxed and content. Cumulatively, a series of happy days will result in a general sense of satisfaction that will extend to partners and children.

The psychologist also said that people set themselves up for disappointment or worse whenever they believe that one big achievement will guarantee long-term happiness. We may try to convince ourselves that everything will be grand once we win the job, land the promotion, hit the sales goal, have the baby, buy the house or the dream car, earn the diploma or receive the gold watch from the company, but life doesn’t work that way.

This show inspired me to better appreciate and be content with each and every day. I urge you to assess yourself and consider where you stand on the overall scale of happiness.

Ingredients in a recipe for happiness might be as simple as something to do, something to look forward to, and someone to love and be loved by.

We have arrived at an inspirational time of the year, the springtime period of renewal. Slow down, ditch the phone, take a deep breath and enjoy what you have.

And be sure to live your own life, not someone else’s.

Until next time,

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850businessmagazine.com LET’S GET SOCIAL!

850 — The Business Magazine of Northwest Florida is now accepting nominations for the 2017 Pinnacle Awards. These awards honor the women in our region who exhibit exceptional leadership abilities in their field, are active in their communities and serve as outstanding mentors to others.

Winners will be recognized at a luncheon event in August and featured in our October/November 2017 issue. Nominations close June 15. Go to 850businessmagazine.com/Pinnacle-Awards to nominate.

EXCLUSIVE ONLINE VIDEO

Get a glimpse of last year’s Pinnacle Awards event online at 850businessmagazine.com/Blog/ News-2016/Pinnacle-Awards-Celebrate-10Remarkable-Women.

ONLINE POLL RESULTS

40%

NO

Talent is the No. 1 commodity for tech businesses, but some businesses have had trouble attracting and keeping young, talented employees. Have you encountered that problem in your business? Yes or No? Visit 850businessmagazine.com/polls/ to take our newest poll now.

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Sign up for our e-newsletter and get updates about our website, video previews and additional offers.

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In the Feb/March issue of 850, we asked the following: High-end realtors across the 850 say that business has picked up since the presidential election was settled, because buyers feel more confident about the national economy.

Do you have the same sense of economic optimism for Northwest Florida in 2017?

YES

Twitter: @850BizMag; Facebook: 850 – The Business Magazine of Northwest Florida; Instagram: 850bizmag; LinkedIn: 850 Business Magazine

CORRECTION In the Feb/March issue, 850 Business Magazine misidentified Wakulla Environmental Institute director Bob Ballard in the above photo. He is the man on the left.

rchived Stories: Peruse »A our vast archive of articles. eal Estate: View the »D latest real estate deals and listings. log: Read about »B local business events, happenings and gatherings through our up-to-date blog section.

LAWRENCE DAVIDSON (PINNACLE AWARDS) AND CHELSEA MOORE (PINNACLE BEHIND THE SCENES) AND ALICIA OSBORNE (CORRECTION)

PINNACLE AWARD NOMINATIONS NOW OPEN

Have all the latest business stories at your fingertips by following us on Facebook, Twitter and even Instagram.

No matter what device or social medium, we want to be a resource for you. Find 850 Business Magazine in all the best spots.

FROM THE MAI LBAG I JUST FINISHED reading the February-March issue of 850 and wanted to tell you that I think it is the best ever! I loved the message in “From the Publisher” as it really speaks to the values you promote in the magazine — respect, humor, service to others and integrity. The articles featured in this issue exude optimism about our region, and I appreciate the emphasis on the positive things that are happening in our area because it is too easy to be critical and you have a knack for avoiding that topic. Thank you for creating a positive message about the region.

• Help Desk • Cloud Services • Network Security

• Disaster Recovery • Flat Rate Contracts

Susan Davis President & CEO Sacred Heart Health System Pensacola

I JUST RECEIVED my 850 magazine today. I couldn’t agree more with Susan’s (Davis) comments. Positive things are happening in our region. Thanks for all that you do to make a difference.

Carol H. Carlan President Sacred Heart Foundation Pensacola

THANKS TO YOU and your team for the great article about Navy Federal in the 850 Magazine (February/March). In fact, your focus on economic development and other stories were very well done and positive.

Debbie Calder Executive Vice President Greater Pensacola Operations Navy Federal Credit Union

I JUST FINISHED READING the “2017 Business Journal” (December/January 850).

I’ve got to say that your team did an exceptional job in capturing the entrepreneurial and startup vitality and energy of this community that’s been rapidly emerging over the last 3-4 years.

Now, we’ve got to make sure that the synergy that we’ve all been working hard to create between all of these efforts NEVER falls back into their silos. Our strength going forward will be in our ability and willingness to build off one another while maintaining each others’ creativity and spirit of discovery.

Also, let’s keep in mind that we have a lot of startups that have come into play over the past few years locally that have raised tens of millions of dollars … . Locally (Ghost Controls, Full Spectrum Power, Vineyard Capital, Applied Fiber Holdings, etc.) and are on the cusp of greatness on a national scale.

Great job. And, as always, I/we appreciate all that Rowland Publishing’s great team does.

W W W. I N S P I R E D-T E C H . N E T CORPORATE OFFICE: 850.402.3700 | HELP DESK SUPPORT: 850.386.TECH (8324)

Steve Evans Tallahassee

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Executive Mindset

Business Arena NEWS AND NUMBERS

I

t’s the most un-wonderful time of the year for most Americans.

Tax time. Sweating to get those federal income tax forms to the Internal Revenue Service before the feared deadline.

But while you’ve been staring at your own tax numbers, ever wondered exactly how much money is raised through our federal income tax from individuals and corporations?

Here’s a look at the tally for the 2015 tax year (forms filed in April 2016), which is the most recent information available from the IRS.

Summary of Collections Before Refunds by Type of Return, FY 2015 1 Type of return

Number of returns

Gross collections

Individual income tax

148,840,642

1,759,740

Corporation income tax

2,216,263 2

389,889

Employment taxes

30,195,881

1,022,359

Excise taxes

1,025,498

77,202

Gift tax

237,706

2,089

Estate tax

36,343

17,953

(millions of $)

Selected Information from Returns Filed Corporation Returns (TY 2013)3 Number filed with assets of $250 million or more...................16,158 Percent of total corporation net income for firms with assets of $250M or more............................................................3.4% Percent of total income tax after credits for firms with assets of $250M or more.........................................................86.3% S Corporation Returns (TY 2013)3 Number of returns........................................................................4,257,909 Partnership Returns (TY 2014)3 Number of returns..................................................................................3,611,255 Individual Returns Top 1-percent adjusted gross income (AGI) break (TY 2014)3........................................................................... $465,626 Top 10-percent AGI break (TY 2014)3............................................. $133,445 Median AGI (TY 2014)3...............................................................................$38,171 Percent that claim standard deductions (TY 2014)3........................69.0% Percent that claim itemized deductions (TY 2014)3.........................29.6% Percent e-filed (TY 2015) through 4/28/2016 4...................................93.6% Percent using paid preparers (TY 2014)3.............................................55.0% Number of returns with AGI of $1M or more (TY 2014)4...............410,106 State with the highest number—California (TY 2014)............... 65,845 State with the lowest number—Vermont (TY 2014)............................530 Number of individual refunds (TY 2014) (millions)3............................. 112.0 Individual refund amount (TY 2014) (billions of $)3......................... $319.6 Average individual refund amount (TY 2014).................................. $2,854 Earned income tax credit (TY 2014)3 Number of returns with credit (millions)................................................ 28.5 Amount claimed (billions of $)............................................................... $68.3 Nonprofit Organizations (TY 2012) 3, 5 Number of returns (Forms 990 and 990-PF filers)......................372,947 Assets controlled by nonprofits (trillions of $)........................................$3.9 Taxpayer Assistance (FY 2015)1 Number of call and walk-in contacts.........................................61,340,034

NOTES: FY—Fiscal Year, TY—Tax Year 1. Source—2015 IRS Data Book 2. Excludes S corporations

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3. Source—SOI data 4. Source—IRS Master File System 5. Organizations tax exempt under Internal Revenue Code section 501(c) (3)

QVASIMODO ART / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Taxing For Dollars

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BUSINESS along the

BOULEVARD

Porath & Associates, P.A. Office in Grand Boulevard

PREMIER OFFICE SPACE

L E A S I N G C O N TA C T DANA HAHN

Work in a vibrant environment in the heart of the new

Vice President of Real Estate, Howard Group

Town Center. Be part of our growing professional

585 Grand Boulevard, Suite 201

community that encompasses 170,000 square feet

Miramar Beach, FL 32550

of existing Class-A office space including financial,

850.837.1886 ext. 205

banking, medical and business offices.

dana@howardgrp.com

Onsite Center Events AP RIL 13

A PR I L 2 7 – 3 0

MAY 13 – 14

DOGGIE EGGSTRAVAGANZA

SOUTH WALTON BEACHES WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL

ARTSQUEST FINE ART FESTIVAL

benefiting Dog Harmony

Grand Boulevard is excited to welcome

benefiting Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation

an official Art Week South Walton event produced by Cultural Arts Alliance

“We wanted to align our business with the great tenants within Grand Boulevard’s Town Center and the new office is also easily accessible for our clients.”

Brittney Frazier Agency Principle

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Executive Mindset

The (850) Life NATURAL BORN LEADER

More Than Just Numbers WINSTON HOWELL, TALLAHASSEE Managing Shareholder, Thomas Howell Ferguson P.A.

M



Q&A WITH WINSTON HOWELL

Why accounting? It’s

about problem-solving and relationships. It’s a people business. Everybody says it’s about numbers, but it’s really about relationships and what those numbers do to the relationship, and how people live their lives around those numbers. I enjoy the entrepreneurial side of the business, working with and serving entrepreneurs.

You have to have really good people to work in this business, and you hopefully have the opportunity to work with a lot of really good people as clients.

What’s the most interesting thing anyone has tried to write off their taxes?

A 911 Porsche.

When do you file your taxes? (Laughing) At the

last minute.

Professional pet peeve? Clients waiting until

the last minute or saying, “Oh, I forgot to tell you … .”

Photo by BRUCE PALMER

Craziest thing about tax season?

The emotional curves that other people give you.

Team members being overwhelmed, in terms of requests, timelines, data deadlines. Clients emotionally challenged by the unknown, by the costs associated with their proportionate share of taxes, the emotional aspect of that interfering with their lives. It’s not the technical aspect.

Emotions tend to disrupt things, and sometimes people just need a moment.

Most rewarding volunteer work?

Everything I do, I am either all in or all out. I am not a passive participant. I’m on the board of Tallahassee Memorial Hospital, and the way it touches lives and influences lives …

I’ve had it touch our lives personally with my father and my wife. My father was brought in on

a LifeFlight (for a heart attack). My wife came for cancer treatment. In both cases, they received tremendous care.

Favorite hobby? Golf, the game of life. You can hit your best shot and get the most unlucky break.

You can hit your worst shot and get the luckiest break.

It’s not intended to be fair.

You have to adapt and adjust, and it’s fun.

Favorite saying?

“Every organization is perfectly designed to get the results it gets.” You can apply that individually: “Every person is perfectly designed to get the results that you are getting.” So if you’re happy with your life, if you’re pleased with your life, you design all of your activities, all of your functions, all of your structure to get those results. If you’re not happy, if you’re frustrated, reassign what you are doing.

uch like his namesake, Winston Churchill, leadership comes naturally to Winston Howell.

As the head of the Tallahassee-based accounting firm Thomas Howell Ferguson P.A., which includes more than 70 accounting professionals and a large support staff, Howell’s leadership style is described as effective, kind, fair and sometimes intense.

“I think I get the best out of people,” Howell, 60, says. “I don’t like mediocrity. I encourage (our staff members) to be their best. I ask ‘why’ a lot and encourage each employee to do the same.”

His inquisitive nature led Howell to change his college major 14 times before graduating magna cum laude from the University of West Florida with a Bachelor of Science in accounting.

He is also a graduate of Harvard Business School’s executive management program “Managing Professional Services Firms.”

His first accounting job was with Arthur Andersen in Birmingham, Alabama. Howell moved to Tallahassee in 1993 to join Ernst & Young, one of the country’s “Big Four” accounting firms.

Believing that opportunity doesn’t wait for convenience, Howell and his partners, John Thomas and Bill Ferguson, acquired the firm in 1993 instead of moving to Jacksonville as part of Ernst & Young’s consolidation strategy.

In 2002, Howell took over the reins as managing shareholder from the retiring Thomas.

850 Magazine recently sat down with Howell to talk business, relationships and the “game of life.” — Karen Murphy

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Executive Mindset

Management Strategies TALENT TALKS

HOW TO KEEP TALENT IN YOUR TECH COMPANY Culture, perks and environment are critical to attracting young workers BY NICK FARRELL

T

alent is the No. 1 commodity in the world.

I’m not afraid to make that claim with certainty because without talent, a business can’t grow in the 21st century. It’s the lifeblood of any company, especially in the technology industry. Without talent, a company is at risk of stagnating.

For startups and established companies alike, growth is essential. Without steady growth in customers, users, revenue — or whatever metric a business is using to qualify success — investors will flee. In the modern marketplace, simply going steady isn’t enough; a business needs to be on an upward trajectory.

“If you aren’t growing, you’re dying.”

— Brad Feld, venture capital investor at Foundry Group The way to achieve steady growth is to either grow a company’s customer base or to innovate and expand its products or services. In the tech space, it is nearly impossible to innovate without a staff of talented, creative and technically proficient individuals.

In Tallahassee, many such individuals can be found

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graduating from one of the city’s three largest centers of higher learning. Companies often look to recruit from Florida State University, Florida A&M University and Tallahassee Community College, where there is a steady supply of programmers, designers, developers and engineers.

Other centers of education in North Florida abound, including the University of North Florida in Jacksonville and the University of West Florida in Pensacola. One would think local companies would be flush with young talent.

Despite having access to such a large talent pool, companies have trouble hiring and retaining talent. Many technology providers and startups are craving talent but can’t seem to find it (or keep it from leaving). North Florida is experiencing an acute case of brain drain.

This highlights one of the region’s biggest challenges, a communication gap between universities and local businesses.

Tallahassee business guru Steve Evans described the universities’ perceived apathy toward local businesses in a recent interview. Recalling his tour of one career-center recruiting program, he lamented that, of the dozens of businesses invited to recruit through the event, only a handful were local.

SFIO CRACHO / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

But the outlook for businesses seeking to source talent locally is improving. The FSU Career Center has several new initiatives in place to help bridge the gap. Kelli Gemmer at the Career Center cited partnerships with the local chamber of commerce, business incubator Domi Station, CareerSource and several other organizations as part of growing efforts to help make students aware of the abundant opportunities for work in Tallahassee.

According to a Knight Institute report from 2006, 27 percent of the students from all Tallahassee-area colleges combined actually do stay in Tallahassee. That was a decade ago, and Tallahassee now has a lot more to offer to young grads.

“The city of Tallahassee is one of North Florida’s best-kept secrets when it comes to finding a great place to work and live after graduation,” says Catherine Barrios, who graduated in 2016.

“This is mainly due to the combined ‘big city’ and ‘small town’ feel, diverse academic and professional communities, and the ever-increasing development within each neighborhood,” she says. “The abundance of untapped opportunity and the potential for quick growth in my career attracts me to remain working in Tallahassee.”

Stories such as Catherine’s are becoming more common.

One thing she mentions is that small-town/big-city feel that Tallahassee maintains, which highlights the next hiring hurdle: culture.

I’m not only referring to the culture of the region as a whole but of the individual companies that make up its economic ecosystem. While the local culture (or “scene”) is extremely important in talent retention, so are the look and feel of the companies that seek to hire these students.

According to two young developers from Florida’s student tech community Florida Hackers, company culture is hugely important to young job-seekers and is something that companies need to actively address. Christian Pelaez-Espinosa says that culture is one of the biggest things graduates are looking for.

“I think that if a company is able to provide a culture of learning and students excelling, they’ll see more opportunities,” he says.

Companies looking to recruit technical talent must realize who they’re competing with. In other cities where entrepreneurship, technology and innovation are well established, they have tried-and-true methods for attracting the best and brightest from all over. There are hundreds of sexy tech startups in places such as Austin, Raleigh-Durham, New York City and all over the West Coast of the United States that any student would kill to work for.

Why? Culture. Perks. Environment. For better or worse, many millennials in the technology space aren’t looking for suit-and-tie

work environments (think “Office Space”). This can be difficult for traditional businesses to understand or cope with, and some companies may never be able to fully shift their culture. However, offering flexibility in terms of schedule, dress code and other perks can make a business relevant to young technophiles.

One other way that businesses can entice students to stick around is by offering the opportunity for learning and growth.

Students and graduates want to grow their skillsets and improve their abilities. If a business can come up with a hiring program that focuses on building skills, especially through mentorship, special projects and leadership opportunities, applicants will come.

If young graduates see a company as a stepping stone to a career in technology, it will be able to attract better talent and keep it longer.

With so many students coming and going, even if a business can attract great talent, it may end up with a “revolving door” where students come in and then leave after short periods of time. (Most people now change jobs four times by the time they turn 32, according to CNN.) This can be a problem in terms of knowledge loss and hiring expenses. That’s where a growth-oriented program can really help convince young graduates that a company is a good place to start their careers.

Ultimately, the best thing businesses can offer to potential talent is value. Whether that comes in the form of a paycheck or as tenure working in a technology company, the experience for an employee or an intern needs to be driven by reciprocity.

Seeing students as a source of cheap or free labor is thinking about the problem all wrong. Unless the principle of reciprocity is built into hiring practices, a business risks being seen as exploitative.

Hiring local graduates is tough. With nationwide competition and an under-the-radar reputation for technology in the area, many companies face an uphill battle. But by creating a culture in which millennials feel comfortable, building communication avenues and providing value for potential employees, businesses and organizations can create a more favorable hiring climate.

Getting young talent interested in a company is difficult, but making a few tweaks to hiring processes can make a local business much more attractive, improve hiring outlook and prepare a company for the future.

Nick Farrell is director of communications at Cuttlesoft, a custom software company. Looking for more insight into North Florida startups and technology? Check out the Startup Capital series at cuttlesoft.com/startup-capital.

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Executive Mindset

Business Speak S TART SMALL, AIM BIG

Working Small

First-time employees can find greater opportunities for success (and happiness) by landing a job with a smaller business. BY ALISSA MCSHANE

COURTESY OF UBEROPS

F

rom conversations I have had with my friends and family members, I have gathered that my first run at big-girl, full-time employment has not been traditional. My experience working in an office consisting of fewer than 50 employees (in my case, much fewer) has played a part in my opinion that everyone should work in small business early in their career if they can. Though I do not intend to speak for all small-business environments or all industries, I feel as though these themes are pervasive.

First of all, there is a huge likelihood that you make waves and get noticed for your efforts. Better to be a small fish in a small pond than in a big pond, if you’re trying to make waves. Though completely and entirely possible, making a difference in a large, bureaucratic company is significantly more challenging than doing so in a smaller business.

When you’re the fatal combination of new and one of many, the opportunity to pitch your idea to someone who can bring it to fruition can be hard to come by (or actually not allowed), but this is a daily occurrence in the world of small biz. Likewise, it is likely that your actions will have an impact on business operations from early on, whether it be from research or recommendations you provide, your customer service or otherwise, which can be good practice for accountability and reliability.

If getting noticed for your work isn’t enough of a draw, small companies often take a hands-on approach to your learning, rather than treating you like

a number. Since there are simply fewer people to be managed, small-business owners can spend less time managing you and more time teaching you. A small company’s lack of bureaucratic red tape and overhead allows lower-level employees to sit in on meetings, pop in on daily stand-ups and get face time with leaders of different departments.

Working in a large organization often turned my quest to get an answer to a question into an all-day affair. In a small business, leaders tend to treat questions as teachable moments, for they realize that each question they answer is an investment into a potentially long-term employee. Similarly, successful smallbusiness leaders are successful when they have a desire to cultivate the talent of their hires. It is beneficial to these CEOs to make reasonable educational investments in their employees (think: free or reduced professional development) because they know that the grass isn’t greener on the other side; it’s green where you water it.

My personal favorite attraction to working small has been the fact that they offer you the chance to try different positions within the business. I launched into the workforce in IT operations brimming with excitement about my job; but, like many, my jubilation lasted about three months. The entirely unpreventable scenario of general apathy for a gig I started out thoroughly enjoying found itself in my lap. If I was just a cog in a huge corporate machine, my options would have been to either get over it or quit. But small businesses

Alissa McShane is the Community Involvement and Business Development Strategist for Tallahassee-based UberOps. She applied to the company at the Florida State University Career Fair and was immediately hired as an intern. Today, she is in charge of the company’s community outreach, company culture and strategic partnerships, working closely with CEO Eduardo Gonzalez Loumiet.

She also sits on the board of the TalTech Alliance and the Florida IT Council.

often have needs in several departments that can be difficult to fulfill. While this may sound like a problem, it can be an opportunity for a young professional who has not yet found his or her perfect niche to try out different roles within the business. Since starting with my company, I have had my hands in human resources, project management, marketing, business development, operations and sales. As long as you are flexible, inquisitive and willing to learn, work in a small business becomes a playground.

Pair these reasons with the fact that small business can be vital to the local economy and impactful in the community, that they are often flexible with scheduling rather than rigid with the timecards, that they encourage your involvement in professional organizations and that priority is usually given to the quality of your work over the quantity of your hours, and you’ve got yourself a recipe for a pleasant first few years in the workforce.

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NOT JUST A GAS STATION Fixedbase operators are a vital service sector within the general aviation industry.

FLYING PRIVATE FIXED-BASED OPERATORS ARE AN ECONOMIC DRIVER IN THE PANHANDLE

BY JASON DEHART // PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVE BARFIELD

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D

omenick Eanniello, general manager of Million Air Tallahassee, wears his Florida State University colors as he chats in his office overlooking the general aviation portion of Tallahassee International Airport. There are two Army Blackhawks and an olive-drab Russian MiSeries helicopter sitting out on the tarmac.

Civilian aircraft are parked nearby. Meanwhile, a Navy-gray P-3 Orion, a four-engine turboprop plane used for maritime patrol, orbits the field. A few days earlier, vintage World War II aircraft from the Collings Foundation used this fixed-base operator, or FBO, as a stopover en route to a show in Central Florida.

The mingling of military and civilian aircraft is a common sight at Million Air. The former are there to train pilots, while the latter are there not only to train general aviation pilots but to drop off football teams, businessmen and future presidents-elect.

Eanniello, who is in his sixth year as general manager of the FBO, wears garnet and gold to greet the Boston College football team. Representing Tallahassee, and promoting it, are every bit a part of his job, as is providing coffee and conference rooms. That’s because Million Air is more than a gas station for airplanes. It’s about providing the best customer service to the people who fly in those planes. And it’s about being the first face a potential new business sees when it comes to town.

MEETING NEEDS Domenick Eanniello, “Our product is not fuel,” Eangeneral manager of niello said. “Yeah, it’s about 75 Million Air Tallahassee percent of what we do, but it’s not and a retired U.S. Air Force colonel, has a fuel. Our product here, in the FBO keen business eye for business — and you’ll find this what fellow pilots want nationwide; everybody has copied and need when they arrive in Tallahassee. the model in the last 15 to 20 years — is customer service.”

“Our product is not fuel. Yeah, it’s about 75 percent of what we do, but it’s not fuel. Our product here, in the FBO business — and you’ll find this nationwide; everybody has copied the model in the last 15 to 20 years — is customer service.”

— Domenick Eanniello, general manager of Million Air Tallahassee

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WINGS OF HISTORY A vintage small plane on display in the lobby of Million Air Tallahassee is evocative of general aviation’s heritage.

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“Whatever a guy requires, whether it be fuel, oil, for us to get him a hotel room, for us to get him a rental car, for us to take care of his catering, for us to recommend where to go in town to eat, whatever the customer requires, we do as a customer service business. A subset of that is fuel, but we see ourselves as more of a concierge business that caters to aviation.”

— Domenick Eanniello, general manager of Million Air Tallahassee

According to the company website, Million Air was founded in 1984 by the Mary Kay Cosmetics family as a single-site business located in Dallas. The company’s original goal was to deliver high-end service to Mary Kay customers and sales representatives at the company’s hometown airport. Soon, though, the company realized that high rollers stepping off of million-dollar private jets were accustomed to luxury-level service, and a new business model was born.

Today, Million Air has bases worldwide. The company came to Tallahassee around 2009 when

it bought the FBO side of Flightline, which continues to have a vital presence as a Piper aircraft dealer and maintenance provider. While both businesses rely on providing excellent customer service, Million Air caters more to the human element of general aviation, Eanniello said.

“Whatever a guy requires, whether it be fuel, oil, for us to get him a hotel room, for us to get him a rental car, for us to take care of his catering, for us to recommend where to go in town to eat, whatever the customer requires, we do as a customer service business,” he said. “A subset of that is fuel, but we see ourselves as more of a concierge business that caters to aviation. And that’s the big change in this business over the last 20 years, I’ll say.”

Making an overall customer impression is the only way to survive in this business today, Eanniello said. Like all top FBOs in the Panhandle, Million Air prides itself on providing luxury-level amenities.

“That’s how we stay competitive in this industry, and my company has, five years in a row, been voted the best FBO in the country because of that overall customer service focus. We’ll do anything,” he said. “We modeled ourselves on the Ritz Carlton, and Disney and Southwest. People that bring in business jets, they wake up in a large house, somebody CREATURE drives them to the airplane, they get on their $30 million airplane, COMFORTS Million Air they come here to see the governor to lobby about something, so Tallahassee they’re used to a very high-end experience. We try to make the tranprides itself on sition from the airplane to the business and from their business in providing highend, luxury town back to the airplane, like the rest of their life, if you will.” amenities to private pilots and other guests accustomed to that level of service.

GAS AND A GOOD COOKIE

Not every pilot needs red carpet service when he or she arrives.

Some are just looking for the usual complimentary snacks and drinks FBOs are known to offer.

“I judge a good FBO by the quality of its cookie,” said Troy Kinsey, a Tallahassee-based reporter who covers the Capitol for Bay News 9 in Tampa and News 13 in Orlando. “If they have a good cookie and a good cup of coffee, that’s what I like. That’s what I appreciate in an FBO.”

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JUST HANGING OUT Propeller-driven aircraft and high-end private jets populate general aviation, but fuel sales to the latter are the real economic driver at FBOs.

Kinsey has been a private pilot for about six years and is the proud owner of a 1974 Piper Cherokee Warrior. In his case, flying is more than a recreational luxury. It’s an integral part of getting his job done, and he couldn’t do it without FBOs throughout the Panhandle.

“It’s a great gig, probably the best gig on the Capitol press corps because the bosses are 300 miles away,” he said jokingly. “But I love it. It’s a terrific privilege to be able to fly in Florida because it’s such a big state, and if you’re a journalist like me covering Florida politics, to get around as quickly as we can through the air is a terrific asset.”

One of Kinsey’s favorite FBOs is at the Quincy Municipal Airport, which is just minutes away from Tallahassee by air. Its laid-back, casual atmosphere is a refreshing contrast to the tightly controlled environment one finds at larger airports.

“Here, it’s kind of a no-frills FBO,” he said. “They’ve got a couple of restrooms, a conference room, they’ve got, well, pretty much every FBO has a flight planning computer so if you want to take a look at the weather (you can). Frankly, that’s become very obsolete because we all have these ForeFlight apps.”

Flying instructors Lacey Smith and Faith Drewry, co-founders of the awardwinning FL Aviation Center in Tallahassee, also have a soft spot for small-town airports like those in Quincy and Apalachicola.

“The Quincy airport has a lot of general aviation traffic, and they’re actually one of the few airports that have been growing,” Smith said. “And they’ve been adding hangars; they had a waiting list for the longest time for hangars over there, so it’s a very active general aviation airport, but it’s also a lot more accessible. There’s not all the badging processes that you have to go through, so the pilots like to be over there, and it’s not that far from the city. They keep their airport in really good shape, and we have events over there sometimes, including a pancake breakfast.”

Drewry said she enjoys hopping over to Apalachicola because it, too, is a relaxed setting.

“It’s like, you land, walk up to the FBO and, you know, ‘Can I borrow the crew car?

We just want to run to town for lunch.’ It’s a casual, relaxed atmosphere, and pilots are continually in search of that kind of community and camaraderie,” she said.

A typical business trip for Kinsey involves hopping between Tallahassee and Tampa/St. Petersburg, but on the weekends he likes to fly over to the Emerald Coast for a change of pace. That’s about a two-and-ahalf-hour trip by car from the Tallahassee area, but his Cherokee can make it in 45 minutes. Upon arrival at Destin Executive Airport, he taxis up to a Destin Jet terminal; a lineman will come up, ask him how long he’s going to be there, and he’ll park the plane. Then, if need be, he will use the FBO’s crew car to get a bite to eat or go to the beach.

“At Destin Jet they don’t charge a ramp fee, which is terrific,” he said. “A lot of FBOs charge a ramp fee so when you land you’ll pay a parking fee, but they view it as economic development, so the more private pilots they can get to fly in and park their planes, the better. I think a lot of piston aircraft pilots are dissuaded from using Destin Jet because of the ‘jet’ in the title, but I always go there. The cookies are hard to beat, and they have a ‘wall of fame’ full of autographed pictures of the celebrities who have flown in.”

Naturally, aviation is a huge economic driver in the Panhandle. Commercial airports fly the tourists in, and the region’s vast military-industrial presence is well known. Meanwhile, a network of avionic and maintenance shops keep planes and pilots in the air. Kinsey said his own maintenance tech in DeFuniak Springs is “perpetually busy.”

“If you book an appointment with him, it’s going to be three months before you get in there because he’s working on so many planes,” he said.

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“I judge a good FBO by the quality of its cookie. If they have a good cookie and a good cup of coffee, that’s what I like. That’s what I appreciate in an FBO.”—Troy Kinsey, a Tallahassee-based reporter who covers the Capitol for Bay News 9 in Tampa and News 13 in Orlando

And the big economic driver for FBOs is the fuel consumed by private jets.

“They don’t have a very big profit margin when it comes to concessions and things of that nature,” Kinsey said. “But in terms of where they derive their profit, it comes directly, for the most part, from sales of fuel. And if they can sell jet fuel, that’s where they get the bulk of their fuel revenue. Avgas (aviation gasoline) is nice, but on a plane like mine, I carry 50 gallons total. Which doesn’t add up to a whole lot of money. In a jet, or a turboprop, like a (Beechcraft King Air) for example, you can have hundreds of gallons of jet fuel, and that really adds up. One King Air goes into Destin Jet and the fuel bill can be like 1,500 bucks, easily. On this one, maybe 100 bucks.”

Back at Million Air Tallahassee, Eanniello said that small private planes make up a quarter of his business, which has four basic customer sets. There 28

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are the “little guys” who fly the piston planes such as the Cessna 172 and Kinsey’s Cherokee. Military aircraft make up another quarter of the business. Million Air has a military contract with the Department of Defense, which is why visitors often see military aircraft buzzing around. Commercial airlines make up a third set of customers. As the only FBO on the field, Million Air Tallahassee handles all of their fueling. The fourth set is the high-end private jet traffic. That’s the real revenue driver here, he said. Ultimately, it all boils down to overhead. And the “little guys” are just a drop in the bucket that covers those costs.

“My overhead cost, if you divide it out, is $277 for me to park an airplane,” Eanniello said. “Now, do the math. These tiny Cessna guys, they cannot even take enough fuel for me to make that number. So I’m basically providing a public service for them. I lose money on everything with a propeller. With turboprops, I begin to break even. But all these little guys, which is a quarter of my business, it’s a losing proposition. They cannot take enough fuel for me to make that $277. The military guys, for me, are a break-even thing because I get these little trainer airplanes that only have so much capacity. The jet traffic is what keeps me alive. They take enough volume that I can make that $277. They offset some of the smaller guys that I’m breaking even on or losing money on.”

BLUE SKIES? Underneath the glitz and glamour of the FBO business lies a troubling economic situation. As an economic sector, general aviation has been shrinking since the 1980s.

“General aviation has been depressed for probably 25 years now,” Kinsey said.

“It really started to take a nosedive in the mid-’80s, for a number of reasons; then 9/11 hit, and the entire civil aviation industry took a tremendous hit from that and people stopped taking flight training lessons. You had, as a result of that, fewer pilots entering the community, and you had less money going to maintenance shops and to fuel purchases at FBOs.” There have been other issues and challenges to general aviation. Product liability issues basically shut down new small-aircraft production before Congress passed liability reform in the 1990s. New private aircraft being produced today are often too

instructors with a passion for flying, Drewry and Smith are keenly aware of the pilot shortage and especially how it affects the FBO industry.

“There is an extreme crisis, a pilot shortage,” said Drewry, whose flight school opened in 2012. “We don’t have FLYING enough pilots to fly our airlines right MACHINES now. Flights are being canceled because Troy Kinsey with his 1960 the airlines don’t have enough pilots.

Beechcraft Right now it’s at the regional carrier Debonair at his hangar at the level, but we’re four or five years out Quincy Municipal from a significant shortage for the maAirport (far left). jor carriers.”

Kinsey and a co-pilot take a Smith said that if there are fewer piflight “around the lots flying, there are fewer fuel sales. It patch” in a 1974 also means there are fewer pilots rentPiper Cherokee Warrior that he ing hangars. That’s not good for small recently sold. airports, which depend on fuel sales and hangar rentals.

“So a lot of the small airports are struggling with competing fuel sales and trying to get the people to come there or stay at their airport because there’s less of it around, in general,” Smith said. “And with some of the apps available to pilots now, you can easily see which airports along your expensive for just one private pilot to own. This means that private pilots like Kinroute have the best fuel prices. It really affects kind sey wind up starting out in planes that belong to an aging air fleet. of how you plan your route to be able to go into “I think the average age of a general aviation aircraft is 40 years old now. And those airports.” that really indicates the hit, the financial hit that the industry took all those years The good news is there have been some encouraging ago,” Kinsey said. “Today, to find a new airplane like a new Mooney or a new Cirrus, developments in recent years that might open general you’ve got to have $80,000. Which is unaffordable for a private pilot. Anyway, FBOs aviation back up to pilots old and new, Drewry said. have felt the impact of those declines in the industry over the years, and that’s why “On the flipside to all of these decreases, we’ve had a a lot of them, frankly, have closed.” couple of big wins lately in terms of the industry,” she Fuel prices are another concern. Aviation fuel is subject to the same economic ups said. “Manufacturers are safe to manufacture airplanes and downs that affect all of us. The high price of gas during the 2008-2012 recession because there is product liability reform, and now just provided another disincentive to private pilots. this year, we’ve also passed third-class medical reform.”

“When we had the major recession, fuel prices went very, very high across the board,” According to the Aircraft Owners and Pilots AsEanniello said. “Not just for aviation, but even at the gas pump. We all felt it. Remember sociation, pilots who have held a valid medical cerwhen it was $4 a gallon? Well, aviation fuel was the same way. It was $5.5, $6 a gallon.” tificate any time in the decade prior to July 15, 2016, The result of these high prices wasn’t pretty. Many corporations that used busimay not need to take another FAA medical exam. ness jets wound up doing some soul-searching and closed their aviation departMeanwhile, pilots — including student pilots — ments, Eanniello said. However, there is some good news. who never had an FAA medical certificate need only “The last year and a half, we have seen a positive vector on those guys going up,” go through the process once. Also, once a pilot has he said. “Two, three percent a month from prior years, so the vector is positive on met the initial requirements to fly under the reforms, that, which is a good sign for us.” he or she need only visit a state-licensed physician at But the small general aviation guys, the ones putting around in Cessna 172s, Piper least once every four years and take an online “aeroCherokees and the like, were hurt the most. medical factors” course every two years. The reforms “They had to decide whether they were going to pay their mortgage and still afford are considered a huge victory for private pilots who to do their weekend flying at that cost,” Eanniello said. “So a lot of these guys sold off aren’t going to carry more than six passengers. their airplanes and got out of it. They’re coming back, slowly, but it takes a while for “They have not eliminated, but reduced, the exthat rebound. Aviation is, for the most part, a high-end business. It’s a luxury good, like traordinarily onerous burden that had been placed boating. So if I lose my job, before I lose my house I’m going to get rid of my boat. The on private pilots to prove their medical fitness,” same applies to an airplane. So that’s what you’ve seen in general aviation.”

Drewry said. “So those two things are entering the Aside from an up-and-down economy, there is intense government regulation, picture right now as an attempt to counteract what not to mention the time and money needed to go to flight school. This lack of new has been depressive activities on the industry for pilots entering the pipeline could have consequences for commercial aviation. As the last 20 years.”

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RARE W BIRDS THERE AREN’T MANY FEMALE PILOTS. TWO BUSINESSWOMEN HOPE TO CHANGE THAT.

BY JASON DEHART PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVE BARFIELD

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omen have made great strides in a variety of careers and industries, but there is still a gender gap when it comes to female aviators. The simple truth is, it’s unusual to find a female pilot, even in this day and age.

According to the Federal Aviation Administration’s U.S. Civil Airmen Statistics, the total number of pilots in the United States stood at 590,039 in 2015. Of that number, only 39,287 were women. That’s 6.6 percent of the overall population — which, by the way, has been on a downward trend since 2010. To break it down further, there were only 11,339 female private pilots in a population of 170,718.

There are even fewer commercial

women pilots; of 101,164 commercial pilots, only 6,587 are women.

Faith Drewry, co-founder of FL Aviation Center in Tallahassee, is well aware of the situation and wants to do something about it.

“In the last 75 years, women have gone from being a tiny percentage of careers like doctors and lawyers to nearly half of those professions,” Drewry said. “Aviation has not changed in the same way. And so it sounds a little trite to say, but the fact is that there aren’t more women pilots because there aren’t more women pilots.”

There has been a big push over the past five or six years to raise awareness of women in aviation through specific events, Drewry said,

SEIZING AN OPPORTUNITY Lacey Smith (left) and Faith Drewry got into the flight school business to help fill an urgent need for new pilots.

They especially encourage women to take up flying.

and while those initiatives are great, she thinks a longer view needs to be taken. She and business partner Lacey Smith want to reach out to the kids who haven’t decided on a career path and who haven’t realized that it’s not something every woman does.

And even though female aviation pioneers are important historical figures worthy of celebration, she thinks today’s women need to see more of their contemporaries making a real, viable, everyday career in aviation.

“I think that promoting historical figures, in a sense, sensationalizes them.

And that doesn’t therefore set them up as a role model,” Drewry said. “It sets them up as groundbreakers. And I think that you have to see more real people. I think the young girls have to see more real people — to think that it is actually feasible.”

So what can be done to recruit more women into flying? Drewry said she and Smith are going to start a special podcast program to get the message out to a larger audience.

“I feel like if we’re going to make a difference, we need to be a voice for women everywhere,” she said.

Drewry said it’s not uncommon to draw quizzical looks from men unaccustomed to female general aviation pilots. She remembers having such an encounter as a student pilot at an airport in New York City, of all places.

“I had been signed off to solo, and I was in a major metropolitan area,” she said. “You wouldn’t think it would be that weird. I showed up, and I got my little airplane and I hauled it out of the hangar, and the line guy looks at me and he said, ‘What are you

“I feel like if we’re going to make a difference, we need to be a voice for women everywhere.”

— Faith Drewry, co-founder of the award-winning FL Aviation Center in Tallahassee

doing?’ and I was like, ‘I’m taking the airplane out.’ ‘Why?’ ‘Because I’m going to go fly it.’ ‘Really? I’ve never seen a woman do that before.’ To him, it wasn’t like you can’t do that (because) you’re a woman, but he’d never seen this before. I just thought that was the funniest thing.”

The same thing happened again not too long ago, Smith said.

“We went to Savannah a couple of years ago and the line guy, we pull up and he’s chalking the airplane, staring at us, and we open the door and he’s like, ‘Well, I’ve never seen that before.’ And we’re like, ‘Something wrong with the airplane?’

And he’s like, ‘Two women in an airplane.’

Because he couldn’t figure out who the pilot was. Bizarre,” she said.

Even though Smith and Drewry tend to laugh about their experiences with such clueless guys, other women may be more sensitive to it and even feel differently enough to reconsider flying. Experiences like that could be preventing more women from becoming pilots, so showing support is essential.

“I think, in a lot of ways though, we had each other, so we kind of laughed about it and went on our merry way,” Smith said.

“But if you’re the only one and continually deal with this, it’s tiresome. It becomes a nuisance. But it’s definitely getting better.”

It helps that the aviation community as a whole is full of nurturing and supportive people, Drewry said. Everyone is welcome to join the family. At FL Aviation Center, especially, you won’t have to jump through hoops to approach the hobby or the people in it.

“When we started the business, our driving mission was to create that supportive community, and to make it obvious from the beginning that it was supportive,” she said. “Aviation is 100 percent a supportive community.”

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SOUTHERN SHAKESPEARE COMPANY presents

AS YOU LIKE IT

by William Shakespeare

May 12-14, 2017 CASCADES PARK Tallahassee, Florida FREE Shakespeare in the Park Festival!

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DEAL ESTATE Just Sold

Cared for by Canterfield Construction of senior community begins

Medical Development Corp, which has involvements in restaurants, hotels and senior housing, has selected Tallahassee as the newest location for the successful Canterfield brand. Canterfield is a senior housing community that combines hospitality aspects and hotelindustry design with the care-giving qualities of assisted and independent living. It will consist of 91 units and will feature independent living villas that will surround the main building. Canterfield will be located on the to-be-constructed

STRUCTURE COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE

By Rebecca Padgett

bike path that will connect various parts of Tallahassee. Construction is expected to begin this spring. For more information, see the sister property at canterfieldofocala.com.

Address: 208-228 E. Tharpe St. Sold Price: $1,100,000 Contact: Sale brokered by Stewart Proctor, CCIM and JR Long, CCIM, Structure Commercial Real Estate, (850) 656-6555, stewart@structureiq.net

THE WORLD’S LARGEST COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE NETWORK. 375+ local offices • 6,700+ local market leaders.

All actively managed to work wherever you do.

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DEAL ESTATE Just Listed

Waterfront Property in Navarre Restaurant property ready for new owner

By Rebecca Padgett Florida PBS LearningMedia provides interactive, curriculumbased content that helps drive student success. Teachers and students now have access to thousands of digital learning resources customized to meet the standards and specific needs of Florida’s K-16 classrooms.

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MILITARY

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TSUNAMI READY

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BY THE NUMBERS

SANTA ROSA COUNTY BUSINESS JOURNAL 2017 AN 850 BUSINESS MAGAZINE SPECIAL REPORT

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2 / 2017 S A N TA R O S A C O U N T Y B U S I N E S S J O U R N A L

CONTENTS

PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER BRIAN E. ROWLAND

CREATIVE CREATIVE DIRECTOR Lawrence Davidson DIRECTOR OF PRODUCTION AND TECHNOLOGY Daniel Vitter SENIOR ART DIRECTOR Saige Roberts ART DIRECTOR Jennifer Ekrut PUBLICATION DESIGNERS Charles Bakofsky, Shruti Shah GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Meredith Brooks, Sarah Mitchell DIGITAL PRODUCTION SPECIALIST Chelsea Moore SALES & MARKETING VICE PRESIDENT/ CORPORATE DEVELOPMENT McKenzie Burleigh Lohbeck DIRECTOR OF NEW BUSINESS Daniel Parisi AD SERVICES COORDINATORS Tracy Mulligan, Lisa Sostre ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Julie Dorr, Darla Harrison, Rhonda Lynn Murray, Dan Parker, Linda Powell, Sarah Scott, Brianna Webb, Lori Magee Yeaton EVENTS AND SPECIAL PROJECTS COORDINATOR Mandy Chapman INTEGRATED MARKETING SPECIALIST Jennifer Ireland INTEGRATED MARKETING COORDINATOR Bria Blossom SALES AND EVENTS ASSOCIATE Mackenzie Ligas OPERATIONS ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES/ HUMAN RESOURCE COORDINATOR Marah Rhone CORPORATE CLIENT LIAISON Sara Goldfarb CLIENT SERVICES REPRESENTATIVE/ PRODUCTION SPECIALIST Melinda Lanigan STAFF ACCOUNTANT Jackie Burns ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Lisa Snell RECEPTIONIST Alyssa Cunningham

COURTESY THE NATURE CONSERVANCY / ERIKA NORTEMANN

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR OF EDITORIAL SERVICES Steve Bornhoft EDITOR Linda Kleindienst SENIOR STAFF WRITER Jason Dehart EDITORIAL COORDINATOR Rebecca Padgett ASSISTANT TO DIRECTOR OF EDITORIAL SERVICES Kim Harris Thacker COPY EDITOR Barry Ray

8 4

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Home to one of the largest and most active naval aviation bases in the world, Santa Rosa County’s economy gets a major boost from businesses that cater to or work with the military.

With hundreds of defense contractors, land available for development and a sizeable trained workforce, the county’s economic development office is making a push to get the word out that the county is at the “heart of a growing aerospace cluster.”

An area known for its blue-green waterways and rich ecosystems, Santa Rosa County is currently working on a project that could improve the quality of marine life — and perhaps economic development — for years to come.

The county has been working with scientists at the Nature Conservancy since 2015 on the Pensacola East Bay Oyster Habitat Restoration Project — a multi-phase endeavor that’s being funded by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation’s Gulf Environmental Benefit Fund.

MILITARY

OYSTERS

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If you thought tsunamis couldn’t happen along the Gulf Coast — you were wrong. Santa Rosa County has prepared a safety plan for tsunami preparedness — the first of its kind in the region.

Santa Rosa County sits in the midst of a six-county area of Northwest Florida that has the highest concentration of military retirees in the U.S., providing a trained and ready workforce. There are more than 31,000 military retirees in Santa Rosa alone — and approximately 100,000 military veterans in Santa Rosa and neighboring counties combined.

TSUNAMI READY

BY THE NUMBERS

ON THE COVER: Two T-6 Texan II fixed-wing aircraft trainers fly above Naval Air Station Whiting Field.

The installation’s North Field accommodates the T-6s while TH-57 Sea Ranger helicopters depart from the South Field. In all, NAS Whiting Field and its 12 Navy Outlying Landing Fields provide support for more than 1.1 million flight operations each year.PHOTO COURTESY U.S. NAVY

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2017 S A N T A R O S A C O U N T Y B U S I N E S S J O U R N A L / 3

MILITARY

AEROSPACE PITCH

COURTESY U.S. NAVY

Sitting in the middle of a highly active aerospace neighborhood, Santa Rosa County launches a program pointing out why it’s a good choice as a home for aviation-focused companies. by DAVID TORTORANO, GULF COAST REPORTERS LEAGUE

NAS Whiting Field’s South Field serves as home to more than 120 TH-57 helicopters where approximately 600 students complete their advanced flight training to become helicopter pilots. The installation supports the training requirements for 100 percent of all Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard helicopter pilots.

O

range and white Navy planes and helicopters are a common sight in Northwest Florida’s Santa Rosa County — home to one of the most active naval aviation bases in the world.

On top of that, it’s right in the middle of a three-county neighborhood with five aviation-focused military bases and two commercial airports, and centrally located between five aircraft manufacturers in the Southeast.

With hundreds of defense contractors, land available for development and a sizeable workforce, the county’s economic development office is making a push to get the word out that Santa Rosa County is at the “heart of a growing aerospace cluster.”

It’s doing so in part through a new brochure, and eventually a special section on

its website that will highlight aerospace and aviation in the county.

Shannon Ogletree, executive director of the Santa Rosa County Economic Development Office, said the outreach is designed “to increase awareness of Santa Rosa County and the region.” He said he hopes people “will see our locations and our area as a good place for doing business.”

MILITARY FOOTPRINT Santa Rosa County along with neighbor Escambia County make up the PensacolaFerry Pass-Brent Metropolitan Statistical Area. The MSA is one of the Navy’s most active training areas where pilots, flight officers and aviation maintenance personnel are trained at Naval Air Station Whiting Field and Naval

4 / 2017 S A N TA R O S A C O U N T Y B U S I N E S S J O U R N A L

Air Station Pensacola, home of the Naval Air Technical Training Center, the Navy’s largest.

It graduates 15,000 students a year.

The military jewel for Santa Rosa County is NAS Whiting Field, just north of the county seat of Milton. The 4,700-acre air station is west of Blackwater River State Forest in a sparsely populated area of Santa Rosa County. Across the state line in Alabama is Conecuh National Forest.

Whiting Field, one of the Navy’s two primary pilot training bases, provides services and material support for the training of U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Coast Guard and international student aviators. With two separate primary fields and 13 outlying fields, it trains 1,200 students every year and is the busiest air station in the world with 1.5 million flight operations and over 160,000 annual flight hours, 14 percent of the Navy’s total.

The county values the base so much, it has an Encroachment Partnering Program with the base, county and state. More than 3,000 acres have been buffered/conserved around Whiting to protect its mission.

The replacement value of the Whiting is considerable, according to the Department of Defense fiscal year 2015 base structure report. NAS Whiting has a plant replacement value of $708.2 million. To the west, NAS Pensacola has a plant replacement value of $2.57 billion. In addition, the Navy’s Corry Station in Pensacola, which trains information warfare personnel, has a replacement value of $813.8 million.

The MSA’s bases are close to three other aviation bases.

Neighboring Okaloosa County has R&D powerhouse Eglin Air Force Base, which also trains F-35 pilots and maintainers, Hurlburt Field, home

COURTESY U.S. NAVY

Naval Air Station Whiting Field is one of the unsung gems of Naval Aviation. The installation manages more than 50 percent of the Navy’s inventory of outlying landing fields, supports more than 140,000 flight hours annually and serves as the home to the Navy’s largest training wing, Training Air Wing FIVE. Approximately 60 percent of all Navy, Marine and Coast Guard pilots receive their primary flight training at TRAWING 5, and 100 percent of all helicopter pilots from the three maritime services gain their Wings of Gold at the air station.

of Air Force Special Operations Command, and Duke Field.

Beyond those are Tyndall Air Force Base, which trains F-22 pilots, and the U.S. Coast Guard Aviation Training Center in Mobile, Alabama. Also in the region is Fort Rucker, where Army aviators train.

Not surprisingly, there are a lot of contractors in the area who do work for the military here and elsewhere. In 2015, Santa Rosa County had 200 defense contractors who won 124 contracts that year valued at $14.5 million. Between 2000 and 2015, contractors in the county were awarded 1,491 contracts valued at some $353 million.

were all in the top 10 counties in the state for defense spending in 2015. Okaloosa County accounted for $1.7 billion (3rd), Escambia accounted for $1.5 billion (6th) while Santa Rosa accounted for $459.7 million (10th).

Florida has a total Department of Defense payroll of $6.6 billion and 126,292 personnel.

Of those, Escambia County is second in the state with 19,900, Okaloosa County third with 14,048, and Santa Rosa County fifth with 7,466.

And it’s clear many of the former military opt

to stay in the region. According to the brochure, about 34,000 military retirees and a wealth of civilian DoD contractors provide a unique workforce ideal for aerospace, defense and information technology. The number of military retirees grows by roughly 2,400 each year.

Santa Rosa County boasts a workforce of over 70,000 people. Half of those people travel to jobs away from their homes, outside the county.

From high school forward, aviation-specific education programs are in place across the

Military Aviation Bases

IN GOOD COMPANY Santa Rosa County and its neighbors are highly active in a state that is a hot spot for defense. And the military impact goes beyond aviation.

Florida’s $52 billion military and defenserelated industries are the state’s third top economic sector. It tops the list in Santa Rosa County.

In fiscal year 2015, Florida was ranked No. 5 in the nation in defense spending at $17.6 billion, 2 percent of the state GDP and 4.3 percent of the total U.S. defense spending.

Okaloosa, Escambia and Santa Rosa counties

Fort Rucker

USCG Aviation Training Center

NAS Whiting Field

Duke Field

NAS Pensacola

Eglin AFB Hurlburt Field

Tyndall AFB

2017 S A N T A R O S A C O U N T Y B U S I N E S S J O U R N A L / 5

MILITARY

region, including the University of Florida Research and Education Engineering Facility near Eglin Air Force Base.

OTHER AVIATION PricewaterhouseCoopers for two consecutive years ranked Florida best in the nation for attractiveness to aerospace manufacturers, and No. 2 in the 2016 survey. Florida is one of the most dynamic of a broader trend bringing aerospace to the Southeast.

Santa Rosa County is using that to its advantage. It helps that the county is located centrally for five aircraft manufacturers: Airbus in Mobile, Alabama; Embraer in Jacksonville and Melbourne, Florida; Gulfstream in Savannah, Georgia; and Boeing in Charleston, South Carolina.

In Santa Rosa County, qualified aviation and aerospace manufacturing companies can receive Incumbent Worker Training (IWT) Grant funding. Incentive programs also are in place for companies purchasing lands owned by the county.

Santa Rosa also has three shovel-ready Certified Florida First Sites: Santa Rosa Industrial Park East, Vic’s of Navarre and Northwest Florida Industrial Part at I-10.

In addition, the aerospace-specific property at Whiting Aviation Park has limited access to Navy runways at Whiting for testing and development opportunities.

Transportation infrastructure includes two commercial airports. To the west is Pensacola International Airport, the busiest commercial airport in Northwest Florida, and to the east Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport.

Santa Rosa County’s public use airport, Peter Prince Field, is located south of NAS Whiting Field.

Interstate 10, U.S. 98 and U.S. 90, major east-west highways, run through the county, which also has access to CSX rail and the Port of Pensacola, a designated foreign trade zone.

And on top of all that, the county is known as a vacation hot spot.

Not bad.

Reprinted with permission from the Gulf Coast Aerospace Newsletter, a bimonthly covering the I-10 aerospace region between Southeast Louisiana and Northwest Florida.

6 / 2017 S A N TA R O S A C O U N T Y B U S I N E S S J O U R N A L SB0156 850 Mag half pg_Commercial Lending.indd 1

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OYSTERS

MORE MOLLUSKS, PLEASE

F

or nature lovers, fishing enthusiasts and commercial oystermen, there is reason to celebrate.

Santa Rosa County, an area known for its blue-green waterways and rich ecosystems, is currently working on a project that could improve the quality of marine life — and perhaps economic development — for years to come.

The catch? It all hinges on one tiny, goopy critter.

“I think oyster restoration is a priority not just for Santa Rosa County but for the whole region,” said Erica Grancagnolo, the county’s grants and special programs manager.

Grancagnolo and her colleagues have been working with scientists at The Nature Conservancy since 2015 on the Pensacola East Bay Oyster Habitat Restoration Project — a multi-phase endeavor that is being funded by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation’s Gulf Environmental Benefit Fund.

It’s part of a big-picture approach that leaders are taking to improve the state’s overall ecological health.

“This is a large project,” said Ann Birch, The Nature Conservancy’s marine conservation manager for Florida. “It’s the largest oyster restoration project in the state of Florida that we’re aware of right now.”

The project is focused on approximately 6.5 miles along East Bay’s undeveloped Escribano Point. While the entire length isn’t completely made up of oyster reef, Birch and her team believe it’s a model location to support such a habitat.

“The primary objective is to restore oyster habitat in that bay system,” she said.

According to Birch, the bay has been on The Nature Conservancy’s radar as an ideal spot to direct their resources for some time.

“The Pensacola Bay region came out as an area of priority because of the biological diversity, the amount of plants and animals that are in this system,” she said.

“And really, the opportunity for restoration as well. The bay system has been improving over the years because of a lot of good work the state and local governments have done for water quality. That’s what really showed that it’s time to start restoring this natural habitat.”

Birch and The Nature Conservancy have teamed with local environmental specialists to map out their next moves in the project, which is still in its infancy.

Davy Crawley, of environmental consulting service Ecology and Environment Inc., was one of their first points of contact.

After months of communication, Ecology and Environment Inc. was

8 / 2017 S A N TA R O S A C O U N T Y B U S I N E S S J O U R N A L

COURTESY THE NATURE CONSERVANCY / ERIKA NORTEMANN

The Nature Conservancy is leading a new, multi-phase oyster-habitat restoration project in East Bay. by CHAY D. BAXLEY

The funding for the Pensacola East Bay Oyster Habitat Restoration Project came from a plea agreement following the 2010 Deepwater Horizon explosion and oil spill.

Between 2013 and 2018, BP and Transocean will pay a total of $2.544 billion to the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation. Now in its fourth year, that money has funded 99 separate projects along the Gulf Coast.

2017 S A N T A R O S A C O U N T Y B U S I N E S S J O U R N A L / 9

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contractually brought into the project in the third quarter of 2016, according to Crawley. Until this spring, its work centered around planning and “team coordination.” Crews officially started monitoring the area in March.

For his part, Crawley is helping scientists get a better understanding of what kind of condition the bay is in right now, so they can better chart any successes going forward.

“We are conducting two years of pre-construction monitoring for the project to establish the baseline of what the environmental conditions are,” said Crawley, whose job is to find out exactly what happened to the bay’s previous oyster populations so history doesn’t repeat itself.

“I suspect it’s a combination of things,” he said.

“You could have over-harvesting,” he continued, “you could have water quality issues. And those could have been historic. Part of our pre-construction monitoring is to determine that. We’ll be figuring that out over the next few years.”

Other members of the private sector, including design firm CH2M, have also been brought into the project. Their work is contingent on Crawley’s findings.

It will be years before residents and visitors of Santa Rosa County see an impact from the project. The initial phase, which includes monitoring, planning and engineering the would-be habitat, is expected to take scientists until February 2019 to complete. After that, more funding will likely be needed to make their hard work a reality.

“We may have to end up phasing it or, if we’re fortunate, we may get enough funding to construct it all at once,” Birch said. “But that’s a big question mark — we’re not there yet.”

Birch said her team is working with the county to keep the community up to date. As progress is made, they will be hosting information sessions to answer any questions residents and business owners may have.

Whenever the project does get its sea legs, though, locals can expect slow but positive effects, including improved water quality and better sport fishing.

“Fishing is a really large recreational sport in the state of Florida, particularly in the Gulf of Mexico and in this region especially,” Birch said. “By restoring oyster habitat, which is really a fish-making habitat if you want to think of it that way, you restore blue crab, shrimp, and habitat for juvenile fish, which grow into sport fish. That has a trickle-down effect into the economy.”

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TSUNAMI READY

SANTA ROSA TAKES PROACTIVE APPROACH TO TSUNAMI THREAT If you thought tsunamis couldn’t happen along the Gulf Coast, you were wrong. by CHAY D. BAXLEY

WILLYAM BRADBERRY / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM (WAVE) AND COURTESY SANTA ROSA COUNTY EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT DIRECTOR (GRAPH)

S

evere weather-wise, Santa Rosa County has lucked out over the past few years. Hurricane Hermine swooshed by as it terrorized neighboring counties — and the most recent tropical depressions and storms have all failed to shake the nearly 200-year-old community.

No ship is unsinkable, though. And hurricanes aren’t the region’s only threat.

According to weather experts with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, tsunamis in the Gulf of Mexico are possible and, though unlikely, could directly impact the county’s coastal communities.

“The overall threat is low,” emphasized Jason Beaman, a warning-coordination meteorologist at NOAA in Mobile, Alabama.

“But in the modeling of a worst-case scenario — a reasonable worst-case scenario, I should say — there was significant potential inundation around the immediate coast.”

According to Beaman, a tsunami in the Gulf of Mexico would look different from its Pacific cousin. Instead of being caused by an earthquake, our version would, in theory, occur after a shift along the Gulf ’s floor.

“It’s what we call underwater landslides,” said Beaman, “where essentially you have a lot of sediments that have been dumped out to the Gulf of Mexico from river systems for years, for centuries. Sediment shifts can cause these underwater landslides, and that could be the source of a tsunami.”

It’s a threat Santa Rosa isn’t willing to risk.

Taking pointers from Beaman and his team, county leaders recently put into place a safety system for tsunami preparedness.

It’s the first of its kind in the region, and has earned the county the designation of “Tsunami Ready” by NOAA. “Essentially, it recognizes those communities that have taken the steps necessary to be prepared for tsunamis,” Beaman said.

“It’s very much like our Storm Ready program, in the fact that to be recognized as Storm Ready, you have to have established an emergency operation center, a 24-hour warning point, multiple ways to receive and disseminate information and, most importantly, to have a plan in place for your county to react when hazardous weather strikes.”

Santa Rosa County’s tsunami preparedness plan can be viewed online at santarosa.fl.gov/ emergency/CEMP/SRC-Tsunami.pdf.

←HIGHEST POTENTIAL LANDSIDE LOCATIONS WITHIN THE GULF OF MEXICO Tsunamis are a dangerous natural phenomenon that have had disastrous effects on communities along the Pacific Ocean for millennia. The word itself is Japanese in origin and directly translates as harbor (tsu) wave (nami).

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BY THE NUMBERS

ALL ABOUT SANTA ROSA

Santa Rosa County is in the midst of a six-county area of Northwest Florida that has the highest concentration of military retirees in the U.S., providing a trained and ready workforce. There are more than 31,000 military retirees in Santa Rosa alone — and approximately 100,000 military veterans in Santa Rosa and neighboring counties combined.

Four military installations are located 45 minutes or less from the county sites that are certified as shovel-ready. And, Santa Rosa County is only 70 miles from the new Airbus facility in Mobile, Alabama.

More than 36 percent of the county’s population has an associate’s degree or higher.

Local schools are among the best in the state of Florida — the school district, and the vast majority of local public schools, consistently earning an “A” grade from the state.

Local business incentives can provide up to $800 per position per year.

2016 (ESTIMATED) — 167,009 MEDIAN AGE (2015) — 39.3 years UNDER 18 YEARS — 29.3% 65 YEARS AND OLDER — 12.9% 18 TO 64 YEARS — 57.8%

TOURISM DEVELOPMENT TAX COLLECTION DECEMBER 2016 — $107,992.05 (18 percent higher than December 2015)

EMPLOYMENT MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME — $58,923 +/- $2,469 MEDIAN FAMILY INCOME — $66,156 +/- $1,774 UNEMPLOYMENT (JANUARY 2017) — 4.4%

MAJOR EMPLOYERS (2014) PRIVATE ORGANIZATIONS Wal-Mart Stores (4)

INDUSTRY

# EMPLOYED

Retail

1,285

Baptist Healthcare Systems

Health Services

543

Santa Rosa Medical Center

Health Services

400

Private State Prison

400

Grocery

380

Financial Services

340

Blackwater River Correctional Facility Publix Navy Federal Mediacom Goldring Gulf Distributing AppRiver, LLC Lifeguard Ambulance Service PUBLIC ORGANIZATIONS

Internet/Cable

300

Warehouse/Distribution

240

Internet Security

220

Ambulance Service

160 # EMPLOYED

State Government

1,282

Santa Rosa County School District

2,750

Federal Military

1,336

Santa Rosa County Government

949

Federal Government

751

Sources: Florida Office of Economic and Demographic Research, U.S. Census Bureau, Santa Rosa Economic Development Office

14 / 2017 S A N TA R O S A C O U N T Y B U S I N E S S J O U R N A L

COURTESY OF SANTA ROSA COUNTY TOURIST DEVELOPMENT OFFICE

POPULATION

WHY DO WE STAY IN SANTA ROSA COUNTY?

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BUSINESS NEWS

CAPITAL APPOINTED BY GOV. SCOTT

» Gov.

Rick Scott recently appointed Matilde Miller as the interim secretary of the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation. She has been at DBPR for more than 16 years and has held numerous positions, including legislative affairs director and chief of staff.

Also, Ben Girtman of Tallahassee was recently appointed to the Florida Department of Elder Affairs Advisory Council. Girtman, a retired attorney and Navy captain, succeeds Kathie Brown. In addition, Lucille Turner of Tallahassee was recently appointed to the Florida Board of Optometry. Turner, a retired attorney, fills a vacant seat.

LOCAL HAPPENINGS

» The Tallahassee office of inter-

national law firm Greenberg Traurig P.A. celebrated its 25th anniversary with a reception on Jan. 11 at the Governor’s Club. Joining the firm’s Tallahassee lawyers and business staff in attendance were Gov. Rick Scott, Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater, numerous state lawmakers and state agency heads, and countless colleagues, clients, family and friends. Founding Chairman Larry J. Hoffman, Senior Chairmen Cesar L. Alvarez and Matthew B. Gorson and Co-President Ernest L. Greer were among the Greenberg Traurig leaders marking the occasion.

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY PROFILED INDIVIDUALS

» Aegis Business Technologies

of biopharmaceutical innovation, patient access to medicines and other industry priorities in Florida, Arkansas and Alabama.

»

Tallahassee native Brittany Bowman is the latest addition to the assurance services depart- BOWMAN ment of Thomas Howell Ferguson, P.A. Bowman, a licensed CPA, has more than eight years of experience in public ac- KNIGHT counting and will serve as a manager in the assurance services department in Tallahassee. The firm also recently welcomed CPA Bill Knight, who will work as a staff accountant in the Tallahassee office’s tax services department.

»

CPA and advisory firm Carr, Riggs & Ingram LLC has moved its Tallahassee operations to a new location to accommodate continued growth. The new office is located at 2633 Centennial Blvd., Suite 200.

» First Florida Credit Union will

expand its services to residents in the Tallahassee market with the opening of a new branch near Tallahassee Community College.

The branch is one of two that First Florida plans to open this year.

The new branch is located at 503 Appleyard Drive, across the street from Tallahassee Community College.

» First

recently celebrated its 20th anniversary. Aegis, a managed services provider, was founded in 1997

by Pam Butler and Brad Mitchell, who realized that the North Florida business community needed a qualified consultant for all aspects of technology.

Franklin Financial Services is celebrating its 50th anniversary of service to clients in the greater Tallahassee area. Originally founded in 1966 as George F. Ewing Insurance, the company began with the goal of focusing on integrity and excellent customer service.

»

» Holland & Knight

Michael Anway has been named regional senior director of state advocacy for PhRMA, the Pharmaceutical ANWAY Research and Manufacturers of America. Anway is responsible for developing and implementing state legislative strategies to support the value

law-firm partner Larry Sellers was recently re-elected to another two-year SELLERS term on The Florida Bar Board of Governors. Sellers has served on the board since 2003 and will be sworn in at the annual meeting of The Florida Bar in June.

SOUNDBYTES

» Luke David Thomas of Tallahassee was recently appointed treasurer of the national nonprofit organization Battlefield to Boardroom’s executive committee. » Ben Carter recently joined the Tallahassee staff of law firm Baker Donelson as an associate in the firm’s business CARTER litigation and employment law groups. Carter is experienced in the areas of state and local government liability, medical malpractice defense and general insurance defense. » Stephanie Derzypolski has been named vice president/chief communications officer of Tallahassee DERZYPOLSKI Memorial HealthCare. She replaces Warren Jones, who moved to Jacksonville at the end of 2016.

Derzypolski has more than BUCHANAN 17 years of health care experience and has worked for various hospitals in marketing and communications, physician recruitment and relations, business development, compliance and human resources. Her replacement as Director of Program Development is Danielle Buchanan, who previously worked for The Zimmerman Agency. » Kevin Forsthoefel and Steven Hogan are the newest shareholders at Ausley McMullen, a Tallahassee FORSTHOEFEL firm that handles the legal needs of business, individual and government clients. Forsthoefel practices in the areas of commercial HOGAN litigation, with special emphasis on creditors’ rights in bankruptcy and election law.

Hogan practices commercial litigation, tax litigation against the IRS and Florida Department of Revenue, and commercial drone law. James “Jimmy” Judkins, Thomas Schulte, Jr., and Jonathan Hayes have joined the firm.

Judkins has been a certified civil trial lawyer for more than 30 years. He is a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers and the International Society of Barristers. Schulte has practiced law for over 20 years. He started his legal career in Tallahassee as an assistant state attorney in the Second Judicial Circuit. Hayes joins the firm after a clerkship with the Honorable Judge Robert L. Hinkle of the Northern District of Florida.

» Don Fox, chief executive officer for Firehouse of America LLC, is the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association’s chairman of the board for 2017. The FRLA represents more than 10,000 members of the hospitality industry. » Lisa Hall has joined the board of directors of the League of Women Voters of Florida.

HALL

» Genesis, a Florida engineering, planning, landscape architecture and design firm, has announced the addition of seven professionals to its Tallahassee office. The staff additions include Heather Van Assche, Melissa Pennington and Lucas VanSickle. » Michael Harris has joined Aegis Business Technologies as a technical services representative. Harris previously HARRIS served at the rank of sergeant in the U.S. Marine Corps as a Cyber Network Operator. » Mark Holcomb and Bob Goldman have joined Dean, Mead & Dunbar’s tax department in Tallahassee. They have more than 70 years of combined experience handling complex state and local tax matters involving planning, compliance, litigation and legislation.

HOLCOMB

GOLDMAN

» Ken Lawson is the new president and chief executive officer of Visit Florida, the state’s official tourism marketing corporation. Lawson

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BUSINESS NEWS

SOUNDBYTES

previously served as secretary of the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation.

» The Greater Tallahassee Chamber of Commerce recently added two new team members.

Samantha Loebig is the new marketing coordinator and Sarah Blei is the new coordinator of board and strategic engagement.

LOEBIG

BLEI James Moore, Certified Public Accountants and Consultants announces that Rick Feldman, Katherine Munday, Jason Norris, Angela Roberts and Garry Spahr have been promoted in the Tallahassee office. Feldman has been promoted to associate accountant, Munday to manager, Norris and Roberts to senior accountant, and Spahr to ACS senior consultant.

»

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY PROFILED INDIVIDUALS

» Drew Parker has joined the Radey Law Firm in Tallahassee as “of counsel.” Parker most recently served as PARKER general counsel of the Florida Department of Financial Services and previously as general counsel of the Florida Department of Children and Families. He will focus primarily on administrative and governmental law, government contracting and procurement, and civil and administrative litigation. » Sachs Media Group recently announced promotions of six staff members in the areas of public relations, digital/social media and web development. The promotions were Ashley Perkins to director of digital content; Rob Orr to director of web design and development; Zoe Linafelt, Emily Allman and Jenna Sarkissian to account managers; and Shelby Hobbs to senior account executive. Powered by a record 20 percent single-year growth, Sachs Media Group recorded its best year ever in 2016, as the nationally rated and regarded firm’s work expanded in multiple areas including public affairs, research, crisis management services and digital/web development.

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» Brianna Shoaf is now an account executive at CoreMessage Inc., a full-service public affairs firm. Shoaf will develop, implement and guide communications strategies for various corporate, political and government clients across Florida. CoreMessage is celebrating its 15th anniversary this year.

recently earned the company’s Gold 2016 Top Producer award in annual net sales — he also received top producer PARISI honors for 850 Business Magazine, Tallahassee Magazine and the Tallahassee Physician and Medical Resource Guide.

» Catherine Carver of Thomas Howell Ferguson P.A. recently passed the CPA exam.

» Blues guitarist and gumbo master Bill “The Sauce Boss” Wharton was recently inducted into the 2017 Florida Music Awards Hall of Fame.

CARVER

NEW BEGINNINGS

» A new Cricket Wireless store

has opened in Tallahassee. The store is located near Florida State University at 1616 W. Tennessee St. SunCom Mobile owns and operates the store. There are now four Cricket Wireless stores in Tallahassee.

LOCAL HONORS

» Attorney David H. Abrams, who practices in the 2nd Judicial Circuit (which covers Franklin, Gadsden, Jefferson, Leon, Liberty and Wakulla counties), recently received The Florida Bar President’s Pro Bono Service Award. » FASTSIGNS of Tallahassee received the Pinnacle Club Award during the 2017 FASTSIGNS Convention in Arizona. This award is given to the centers ranked 26 to 125 for sales volume between Oct. 1, 2015 and Sept. 30, 2016. » FMB recently awarded Senior Vice President of Deposit Operations Sonja Walker the 2016 F. Wilson Carraway Sr. Award for Excellence and Community Service. Chief Financial Officer Linda Palmer was presented the 2016 FMB Horizon Award, and longtime teller Estelle Thompson received the 2016 FMB Employee of the Year Award.

EMERALD COAST APPOINTED

BY GOV. SCOTT

» Dottie Peoples, of Navarre, was recently appointed to the Florida Department of Elder Affairs Advisory Council by Gov. Rick Scott.

Peoples is the former executive director of the Northwest Florida Area Agency on Aging. She succeeds Neil Davis and is appointed for a term beginning Jan. 4, 2017, and ending Sept. 30, 2017.

LOCAL HONORS

» The

Edison Electric Institute presented Gulf Power with the association’s Emergency Assistance Award for its extraordinary work restoring power after Hurricane Hermine and Hurricane Matthew in the summer and fall of 2016. Gulf Power employees devoted more than 12,768 and 10,565 hours while helping to restore service in the wake of Hermine and Matthew, respectively.

» Dan Parisi, director of new busi-

ness at Rowland Publishing Inc.,

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» Visit South Walton recently announced the winners of the 2017 Perfect in South Walton Awards.

Ninety-six awards were issued in 48 categories in the 2017 Perfect in South Walton Best of the Best winner’s book. Grand Champions in each category receive an official plaque, while Awards of Excellence winners receive an official certificate. » The University of West Florida College of Health is slated to be named the Usha Kundu, MD College of Health in Kundu’s honor, following a donation in excess of $5 million. Kundu grew up in rural Bihar, India, and graduated from the Rajendra Medical College at Ranchi University in 1969 before immigrating to the United States to complete her residency in obstetrics and gynecology. She opened her current private practice in Pensacola in 1983. » Newman-Dailey Resort Properties’ Real Estate Sales Division has announced that Sales Associate Shannyn Stevenson and Real Estate Broker Associate Mark DeSalvo were awarded 2016 Fourth Quarter Top Producers. Stevenson was recognized as top listing agent and DeSalvo earned Top Sales Agent for October through December 2016. In addition, Diane Green was named the 2016 Top Producer of the Year.

STEVENSON

DESALVO

GREEN

LOCAL HAPPENINGS

» Attorney Mark E. Olive of Talla-

hassee, who has devoted himself to the defense of death row inmates, is the recipient of the 2017 Tobias Simon Pro Bono Service Award, the highest statewide pro bono award.

» Attorney Joseph D. Lorenz recently received The Florida Bar President’s Pro Bono Service Award for his pro bono service provided during his 43-year legal career in Okaloosa County.

»

Gov. Rick Scott recently recognized Chained Concepts Bike Shop with the Governor’s Business Ambassador Award. The Crestview store specializes in cycling training, fitting and equipment. Owner and veteran Miguel Davila opened Chained Concepts in 2014.

» Grand Boulevard at Sandestin announced the coming of two new retailers and one casual dining restaurant. Kinnucan’s, Ophelia Swimwear and Everkrisp will open in the first half of 2017. » Gulfstream Shipbuilding of Freeport has been awarded a contract through the U.S.

Department of Homeland Security for a passenger/vehicle ferry to service the New York and Connecticut waters. This vessel is capable of ferrying passengers, freight and vehicles in and around the waters of the Eastern Long Island Sound and Gardiner’s Bay.

» Destin-Fort Walton Beach Air-

port (VPS) experienced the highest passenger count in its 60-year history in 2016. The year-to-date numbers reflect an 18 percent increase in passenger traffic as compared to 915,650 total passengers in 2015.

»

Pensacola attorney and community advocate Fred Levin recently made a donation of $100,000 to the University of LEVIN West Florida football program. Levin, a member of the UWF Football Founders, has been an advocate of the football program since it was formed and launched in 2016.

» The University of West Florida

received a $1 million gift from Bob Kimball, UWF professor of marketing and economics, to create the Bill and Ellie Kimball Memorial Undergraduate Scholarship Award in honor of his parents. The gift will fund $2,000 scholarships for 40 UWF sophomores each year.

The scholarships will be awarded to students based on merit.

BEGINNINGS

» Bay

Breeze Patio of Miramar Beach recently added Walton County resident Kevin Louthain to its staff as commercial sales manager. He will oversee all commercial accounts, including restaurants, resorts, condos, hotels, community associations and senior/ community centers.

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY PROFILED INDIVIDUALS

»

Pensacola attorney Jonathan Minchin was recently promoted to director at Galloway, Johnson, Tompkins, Burr & Smith. He represents individual clients, companies and insurers in workers’ compensation, construction defects, personal injury, premises liability, wrongful death and employment discrimination claims.

» First Florida Bank has announced that Amy Parrish has been

hired as a vice president of First Florida Wealth Group of Destin. Parrish has served as a private wealth adviser to PARRISH clients throughout the Emerald Coast and Alabama for more than seven years.

»

Accounting firm Warren Averett LLC has announced that Ross LeBlanc of the Fort Walton Beach office and Joseph McNair of the Pensacola office have been promoted to members of the firm.

LEBLANC

» The

West Florida MCNAIR Regional Planning Council recently welcomed Jennifer Laurent and Tiffany Bates to the agency. Laurent is the new community and economic-development planning manager and Bates is the planner-TPO coordinator.

»

Pavel Kasianov, ARNP-C, and Julie Morton, ARNP-C, have joined Pain Consultants of West Florida in Pensacola.

KASIANOV

»

The city of Pensacola and its Community Redevelopment Agency hosted a groundbreaking MORTON ceremony on Jan. 10, 2017, for the General Daniel “Chappie” James Jr. Museum and Flight Academy Project, a public-private partnership in the Eastside Redevelopment Area.

This city-owned site is the historic home of America’s first AfricanAmerican four-star general, Daniel “Chappie” James Jr., and was donated to the city by the James family.

» The University of West Florida and Amazon.com Inc. are launching a corporate work-study partnership — the first in Florida. The program will launch in the fall of 2017. The positions available include customer service, virtual programs, engineering, finance, human resources, transportation, supply chain/fulfillment and international expansion.

»

Will Hart of Pensacola has been named the community market president for financial service company Trustmark’s Pensacola market. Hart has 14 years of banking experience and is a certified commercial investment member.

» Christopher

Ruyan and Tyler Jarvis, co-founders of Jackacudas Seafood & Sushi and Brotula’s Seafood House & Steamer, have purchased Tim Creehan’s Cuvee Destin restaurant.

» Lenny Siers, independent own-

er and operator of One Hour Air Conditioning & Heating and Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, has acquired an operation specializing in residential A/C and plumbing services formerly known as ARS/ Rescue Rooter of Gulf Breeze.

Siers has been in the home services industry for more than two decades, and his territory now spans Northwest Florida from Pensacola to Panama City.

»

Annie Walthall is the new public involvement coordinator for the West Florida Regional Planning Council. WALTHALL Walthall, of Crestview, graduated from the University of West Florida with a bachelor’s degree in communication.

» Pensacola

entrepreneur Chef Ken Hudson was recently able to open up 2 4 6 Meals To Go with help from the Florida Small Business Development Center at the University of West Florida. 2 4 6 Meals To Go is a takeout-only establishment dedicated to creating delicious meals that busy families can pick up to enjoy in the comfort of their own homes. In 2015, the Florida Small Business Development Center helped create, retain and save 2,055 jobs and generate more than $378.9 million in business sales, as well as starting over 40 new businesses.

to expand its operations by locating a new manufacturing facility in Venture Crossings® Enterprise Centre in Bay County. GKN Aerospace intends to lease this new manufacturing facility, which will be developed and owned by a subsidiary of St. Joe and designed to meet GKN Aerospace’s specific requirements. With this new facility, GKN Aerospace plans to make a capital investment of approximately $50 million and create 170 new jobs for highly skilled employees.

FORGOTTEN COAST LOCAL HAPPENINGS

» Amy Elizabeth Miller, ARNP, has joined the Sacred Heart Medical Group office in Wewahitchka as a certiMILLER fied nurse practitioner. Miller graduated with honors from Walden University in Minneapolis with a nurse practitioner degree and has clinical experience in public health, home health care, acute care, obstetrics, women’s health and long-term care. » Dr. Brent Chapman, a cardiologist, has joined the team of medical staff physicians at Sacred Heart Hospital on CHAPMAN the Gulf in Port St. Joe. Chapman is board-certified in interventional cardiology and internal medicine.

APPOINTED BY THE GOVERNOR

» Mindy Rankin of Lynn Haven was recently appointed by Gov. Rick Scott to the Florida Board of Accountancy. Rankin, a Certified Public Accountant for Warren Averett LLC, succeeds Stephen Riggs.

I-10 APPOINTED BY THE GOVERNOR

BAY LOCAL HAPPENINGS

» The St. Joe Company and the

Bay Economic Development Alliance recently unveiled plans created by one of the world’s largest independent first tier suppliers to the international aviation industry

» Chris Jernigan was recently appointed by Gov. Rick Scott to the Campbellton-Graceville Hospital Corporation. Jernigan, of Graceville, is the president and chief operating officer of Arnold Lumber Company.

—COMPILED BY JASON DEHART

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CAPITAL CORRIDOR

Gadsden, Jefferson + Leon Counties

skills to evolve UCompass into a pioneering Internet learning company. It would ultimately provide the technology and software to support the online education of millions of students across the United States and Canada, including the Florida Virtual School (FVS). Last year, he sold UCompass to the state of Florida for $5.75 million. He is now founder and CEO of WeatherSTEM, a passion project that began by providing weather stations and online curriculum to schools throughout Florida and is now using those weather stations for a variety of other uses.

Over the years, the 43-year-old has learned lessons — some the hard way — for successful entrepreneurship. Here are a few of them:

1

PASSION PROJECT Ed Mansouri has found his purpose by following many different passions including meteorology, entrepreneurship, writing and software development.

The Accidental Entrepreneur Tallahassee’s Ed Mansouri has spent his career turning his passions into successful businesses By Rosanne Dunkelberger

W

hen Ed Mansouri came to Florida State University in 1997 as a graduate student in meteorology, he had already dipped his toe into entrepreneurship.

While attending Penn State as an undergraduate, he wrote a book, the “Penn State

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Compass,” that was ultimately sold to the university’s orientation program as a guide for students and their parents. He set up a company and website called UCompass to create versions for other college campuses.

Since then, the name stayed the same, but Mansouri used his computer programming

It helps to be passionate about the business you are creating.

Mansouri was asked to speak to a group about starting a business, and his comments “probably pissed some people off,” he recalled. “I said, ‘Alright folks, if you want to see the person or people that are going to build the next greatest company… the next greatest product, look around this room. They’re not here. They don’t need to listen to some schmuck like me. They are not going to be told no, they are piecing together their plan, they’re in their parents’ basement, they’re in some crummy apartment, they’re finding their way’ … so I am a little bit cynical about this idea of forced entrepreneurship.”

At the start of his graduate studies at FSU, Mansouri agreed to teach the large introductory meteorology lecture class, MET 1010.

“My research (in graduate school) was very programming-oriented … and I recognized that it would not be that big of a deal to start writing some software that could help me teach my courses,” he said. “Shortly after that, I recognized there were actually companies out there, like Blackboard, that were doing that and making money.”

2

There’s no right answer to whether you should diversify or commit to one client.

In the early days of marketing his education software, called Educator, Mansouri was

Photo by BRUCE PALMER

doing most of the programming and sales, flying cross-country to sell and service 150 clients with students from kindergarten through college.

“I was running myself ragged. I had built a very small team, but I was still very involved in every detail,” he said.

About 15 years ago, FVS asked UCompass to submit a request for proposal.

“I looked into their vision and recognized that if we responded to that RFP and we were to win it, it was going to represent a seismic shift in our focus,” he said. “They had about 3,000 to 4,000 students at the time and I recognized that, with the right technology, with the right leadership, they could be at 100,000 in a few years.”

When UCompass got the contract, they dropped their higher education clients and focused on K-12 education.

“In a short amount of time, we were making more money with a much smaller number of customers … working with statewide K-12 implementations in New Jersey, in Minnesota, in Florida versus these smaller school-by-school implementations,” he said. He was right. The company’s annual income jumped from $2.5 million with 150 customers to $4 million from FVS alone.

But, after years of a mutually beneficial relationship, new FVS management “started to look at us as a vendor, and that started to create some good, old-fashioned hurt feelings,” Mansouri said. After going through another RFP process, winning it, and then being asked to submit one again, he washed his hands of the project and sold the company to the state. A Canada-based vendor would take over FVS, but Mansouri allowed his staff to tear up their non-compete agreements and work through the transition.

“I’ve been on both ends of the spectrum,” he said. “There’s pluses and minuses with both. The one thing you never know is when one of those smaller customers could blow up into something big. I have had that happen before.”

3

Don’t hold grudges.

During his FSU days, Mansouri got in hot water and nearly left the graduate program because administrators thought he

might be creating a commercial product as a grad student.

“The culture for fostering entrepreneurship could not be more different now than it was then,” he said. “Instead of the university reaching out to me with curiosity and support, they came at me with almost sort of a ‘how dare you?’”

Today, “I’m extremely proud of my relationship with Florida State,” he said, collaborating with the College of Business as well as the emergency management division and campus police with his weather stations. He also returned as a student, seeking a doctorate in meteorology. (Something he considers one of his rare failures. He had to drop out of the fall semester after a calendar mistake led to him missing a midterm exam.)

During the latter, more difficult, years of UCompass, Mansouri decided to revisit one of his passions — meteorology.

“I started yearning to do something with meteorology, and one of the things that gave me the idea for WeatherSTEM actually has to do with when I recognized that the state of Florida did not offer a high schoollevel course in meteorology,” he said.

That high-school meteorology course he envisioned is close to being implemented in Florida’s brick-and-mortar schools — and through the FVS. By burning bridges, you only hurt yourself, he said. “You just gotta get over it . . .

Things change; people move on; different interests develop.”

4

When opportunity knocks, answer the door.

WeatherSTEM started teeny-tiny small: Mansouri set up a Facebook page that shared information captured by his backyard weather station, including a camera focused on the sky. (His home is loaded with scientific things; in addition to the weather station, there is a lightning detector, a telescope and an underground geothermal heating and cooling system). It caught on with parents at his son’s school, who could check on weather conditions before heading out for school.

He decided to donate 15 weather stations to schools in Leon County, along with an

online curriculum that students could use to study scientific concepts with real-time, on-the-spot weather information. They proved so popular, the county’s education foundation bought 15 more to be installed in other local schools.

From there, WeatherSTEM installed the stations in each of Florida’s 67 counties. Each weather station has its own web and social media presence, offering temperature, wind, rain, solar radiation, and other meteorological information as well as livestream video condensed daily into a 20-second “sky movie.”

Mansouri is discovering and exploring myriad uses for his weather stations beyond education. After reading a local news story about WeatherSTEM, FSU’s emergency management director saw the potential for utilizing weather stations on campus for safety and disseminating information. Now they’re located on eight different Florida State properties and campuses across the country.

Weather stations also are being deployed to farmers — measurements can include soil moisture and temperatures and leaf wetness, among the usual weather information. And, in another unique use, WeatherSTEM has teamed up with a Tallahassee restaurant, The Edison. The restaurant’s Twitter and Facebook pages send out automated messages to potential customers customized to the weather and what patrons are ordering.

“I’m definitely looking to position WeatherSTEM to be an acquisition target,” he shared. “What industry that ends up being in — Is it going to be education? Is it going to be agriculture? Is it going to be health and safety? — is a story that remains to be written.

“Passion. It counts for everything with me. I love weather and I love technology and I do love education,” he said. “To be pursuing a business where I can blend those three and be getting feedback that people think I’m actually doing some good, that’s awesome for me. I’ve not proven yet that WeatherSTEM is going to be as financially successful as UCompass, but I feel eventually it will be more successful than UCompass ever was.”

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I-10/FORGOTTEN COAST CORRIDOR

Northern Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa + Walton Counties and Holmes, Washington, Calhoun, Jackson + Liberty Counties

Small-Time Success

Through a series of unique state grants, small communities in Florida’s Panhandle are getting back to their roots — and making economic development strides. By Tisha Crews Keller

N

atural beauty, sparse populations, existing infrastructure and a strong sense of community connectedness are stumbling blocks for urban areas, but they prove to be a strong attraction for retirees and millennials.

Rural Northwest Florida has these attributes in spades, and the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) is helping communities discover new ways to invest in and market their assets.

Via Competitive Florida grants, the DEO invests $80,000 over two years in the very attributes that make small-town Florida so unique — and helps turn these traits into economic development.

Originally piloted in 2013 with a handful of rural communities statewide, Competitive Florida grants have now expanded into 13 small-town areas that struggle to attract modern business to their 20th-century infrastructure and community values.

These development-hungry communities are challenged to engage their stakeholders in face-to-face meetings and really dig deep to find what makes them unique, as well as identify the special ties to nowdefunct industry to leverage what compels people to move to a new place.

The grants span two years, and all must begin with asset mapping and concentrated stakeholder involvement to identify the innovative strategies that can promote partnerships, community design and a viable economy. DEO officials harness statewide experience to provide technical assistance to these communities and often point to further funding for redevelopment and revitalization.

Four North Florida communities have begun economic development under the grants: the city of Port St. Joe, the city of

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Madison, the town of Century and the city of DeFuniak Springs. With distinct strategies borne out of their initial evaluation phases, these communities are finding new hope for bringing back their once-vibrant economies.

CITY OF PORT ST. JOE Some 20 years ago, Port St. Joe lost its main economic engine — The St. Joe Company paper mill. With it, the city’s port lost its largest user, more than 1,000 jobs left the area and economic vitality dried up.

But its infrastructure remains. And the community is hungry for a new, vital city.

Historically, Port St. Joe has shipped cargoes including forest products, chemicals and coal and has not yet seen port traffic like what it enjoyed at its height.

While the port is technically authorized for a 35-foot depth, Guerry Magidson, chair of the Port Authority of Port St. Joe, says the organization is studying the feasibility of dredging to that depth and looking at funding sources. If successful, a channel of 35 feet would allow for all sizes of modern shipping vessels except supertankers.

In addition to this existing infrastructure, the Competitive Florida grant in its first year identified several other assets that Port St. Joe can build on for economic development. The project was really a springboard for the economic planning the city needed to redefine itself.

“We learned that we have so many assets we can build upon,” Chris Holley, executive director of the Gulf County Economic Development Coalition, says. “We have excess wastewater capacity, excess electrical power and natural gas, great natural water resources in and around the port and a very large area of available timber in Gulf County.”

These amenities make the area a great shovel-ready site that is home to emerging industries, including biofuel production and conversion of plastic bottles to aviation fuel.

While the growth is occurring, it’s not as much of an economic driver as ecotourism has become for Port St. Joe. “We have high levels of tourism activity now,” Holley says. “People are looking for the next South Walton area — we are where that area was 20 years ago.”

But the area needs a diverse economy to support this laid-back vision of its future self. With terrific storms and catastrophic oil spills in the recent past, Holley and area leaders realize that relying on the natural assets alone can be a fragile plan.

Through the Competitive Florida grant, Port St. Joe chose downtown revitalization as a key area for increasing its economic development.

“We used the DEO grant asset mapping as a road map” for what and how to invest in a modern vision for the quaint downtown that holds so much history, says Jim Anderson, Port St. Joe’s city manager.

Leveraging the technical assistance provided by the DEO’s team allowed Anderson and Holley, along with scores of stakeholders and workgroup members, to identify ways to create a downtown area that attracts business and promotes tourism, including refurbishing the Centennial Building, the Port Theatre and the historic lighthouse as tourism destinations and cultural icons.

But all of that begins with good infrastructure.

In year two of the Competitive Florida grant, the city used $40,000 from the DEO to do the engineering work required for

and Madison + Taylor Counties, Gulf, Franklin + Wakulla Counties

THE RIGHT TRACKS The addition of the proposed Gulf County Railroad line will assist in bringing more business to the updated downtown of Port St.Joe.

water and sewer replacement in the city’s commercial district.

From there, the city applied for a legislative appropriation to replace the system. If state Rep. Halsey Beshears and state Sen. Bill Montford come through for Port St. Joe, the city will receive $198,000 in 2017 to update the aging infrastructure. And then Port St. Joe will be well on its way to bringing new retail into an updated downtown and industry to a port ready to realize its full potential.

COURTESY OF GULF COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COALITION

CITY OF MADISON The city of Madison, with a population of just over 3,000, was recently named one of the “Best Little Towns in Florida” by Visit Florida. For more than 50 years, the city has served as home for North Florida Community College and as an out-campus for St. Leo University. Downtown Madison is filled with quaint gift shops, antique stores, outdoor shops and eateries and overflows with classic 150- to nearly 200-yearold homes and buildings.

However, the area suffers from insufficient schools and very few jobs for its own residents, much less newcomers who would move to the area.

“Madison is a beautiful place with truly great people,” says Ina Thompson, former

mayor and now a city commissioner. “But when you have no Walmart … when people have to travel to shop, they spend their money elsewhere.”

This lack of opportunities for growth spurred Thompson to seek funding for change.

Through the Florida League of Cities, she learned that other cities were using Competitive Florida grant money for economic development planning. With that in mind, she called her colleague Helen Miller, a member of the town council in nearby White Springs. Miller signed on to administer the DEO grant.

Together in 2015, Thompson and Miller gathered city staff, planners, commissioners, business interests including real estate owners, Johnson & Johnson Inc. (owner of Busy Bee travel stops), bankers, Chamber of Commerce and tourism representatives to kick off the Competitive Florida grant of $40,000 for year one.

What came out of that initial asset mapping was a surprising need overwhelmingly felt in the community: redesigned recreational opportunities for Madison’s residents and, especially, its youth.

Tim Bennett, Madison’s city manager, explains that the health and future of the area’s young people are of utmost concern

because they are the city’s future. A second priority that the DEO mapping revealed was investing in those youth through mentoring programs for at-risk kids.

“Children who grow up with healthier lifestyle choices” generally do better, Miller says. Recreation and youth development were the two priorities that the Competitive Florida asset mapping uncovered.

Madison used the grant funds to engage a University of Florida architecture class to develop ideas to enhance the city’s recreational facility and market those ideas to Madison residents.

The city also used the money to begin working on the youth mentoring plan, forming partnerships with local nonprofit organizations and law enforcement, including the Madison County Health Department and the school board.

“Youth mentoring is about building good relationships between kids and parents and law enforcement, to stop policing before it even starts,” Bennett says.

Thompson sees an opportunity to expand the focus to a slightly different target market: baby boomers.

Florida State University is working on a downtown concept aligned with the Competitive Florida asset mapping that

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I-10/FORGOTTEN COAST CORRIDOR

DESIGN MIND Above is an idea developed by Christopher Berry, a student at the University of Florida School of Architecture, Design, Construction and Planning. Under the direction of Professor Martha Kohen, multiple students presented architecture ideas to enhance recreational facilities. This project focused on Lake Frances, which is a beautiful natural lake in madison fed by springs. This plan suggests enhancing the lake through walking, biking and exercise paths, making it an asset to the community and economic development.

can build on the momentum Thompson is already seeing. Celebrity Chef Art Smith, former chef to Oprah Winfrey, bought a mansion in Madison recently, and already his fame is starting to bring tourists.

“When you don’t have quality schools, it’s hard to attract young families,” Thompson says. “I’d like to focus on the 55-plus community, because we have the essentials — including a new hospital nearby — and we now will have great recreation. Until Madison develops some type of employment for locals and newcomers, retirees may be the best fit.”

Says Bennett, “From my perspective, if you have recreation to bring people to Madison, they eat at rest stops, shop in stores, buy gas.

They may also love it enough to buy property, build a business here and more.”

TOWN OF CENTURY Century, right on the state line between Alabama and Florida north of Pensacola, was founded in 1901 as a sawmill company town and named after the fact that the year 1901 was the first year of the 20th century.

In 1953, the sawmill closed and Century’s workforce left. The area lost its hospital and its schools; children are now bused 20 miles away to another school district.

With a population of just 1,500, most everyone in Century works at the staterun Century Correctional Institution, or in retail or fast food. They may instead commute one hour to Pensacola or Atmore, Alabama, for work.

On Feb. 15, 2016, the town was hit by an EF3

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tornado, heavily damaging or destroying about 70 of the town’s sparse 700 homes and injuring three people. Already struggling for relevance in the 21st-century economy, Century’s future seemed decimated once again.

Despite its challenges, Debbie Nichols, Century’s town planner, sees a lot of potential in her community.

“If a business would provide these people the training, they would have no problem getting employees,” she says. “We have a great community of people who are smart and who want to work.”

The DEO’s Competitive Florida grant allowed Nichols and her grant team to pull together the stakeholders who cared the most about the town and inventory the good — and the bad — about their town.

What the grant’s required asset mapping uncovered was a community with the will but little momentum from outside the town limits.

Century has a master-planned industrial park complete with 5-acre lots and all the infrastructure needed for a business to move in, a pay-forward from visionaries 20 years ago. New businesses have access to a revolving loan program, and a historic district provides a beautiful backdrop for daily life.

This encourages Mayor Henry Hawkins.

“Century has a lot to offer new businesses, both large and small,” Hawkins says. “We are strategically placed between Interstate 65 and Interstate 10 with access to port and rail, which makes us a perfect place for manufacturing. Workforce training is

available for new industries or small businesses. The town of Century has an incubator that is ready for small businesses to use for startup.”

The result of the Competitive Florida grant in Century was a plan to figure out what would work and what the town should move on from. With the funds, the town hired the University of West Florida’s Haas Center to define goals and perform several tasks.

A hotel feasibility study determined that a new hotel in Century would not be a good economic return on investment for a company, despite the fact that the town is a halfhour drive from the nearest lodging.

The grant produced small-business development workshops through the University of West Florida, which taught local entrepreneurs how to write business plans and use accounting software.

They held workforce training sessions with Bridges Out of Poverty, providing clothes and résumés for women training to enter the workforce.

The town got a customized marketing plan, but it has not been implemented yet because of the 2016 election’s change in local leadership.

The town’s small-business incubator — almost unheard of for a community of its size — was developed but sits mostly empty.

Perhaps most importantly, the DEO funds allowed the town to hire an economic development coordinator, Janet Etheridge.

With a $55,000 mini-grant procured from

the International Economic Development Council, Etheridge is able to use the money to implement some of the strategic planning goals that the Competitive Florida activity identified.

She is looking for manufacturing or assembly jobs she can bring to Century and is actively meeting with local business owners to figure out how she can help them grow.

Nichols, Hawkins and Etheridge are open for any opportunity set before them: An inland logistics center, for instance, could be a viable employer, and the Florida Department of Transportation has funded development of freight complexes in other areas of the state.

Etheridge points to a 50-unit apartment complex that is underway and will offer mixed-income housing for the area.

“For economic development, you need schools, workforce and housing,” Etheridge explains. “We are on the cusp of doing some really great stuff here.”

COURTESY OF UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA, SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE (RENDERING OF LAKE FRANCES) AND NORTHESCAMBIA.COM (APARTMENT COMPLEX)

CITY OF DEFUNIAK SPRINGS DeFuniak Springs, in Walton County, was established as a final-destination resort by railroad businessmen. They enlisted the cooperation and aid of the Chautauqua Movement of New York. The Chautauqua Hall of Brotherhood, an auditorium seating 4,000, was constructed on Lake DeFuniak in the center of town. The “Chautauqua of the South” seminars, classes and the like were held in the Hall of Brotherhood building for people on vacation from 1884 until 1927.

With the decline of railroad travel, DeFuniak has become less known for its educational roots and more as a vacation spot for wealthy Northerners.

With the Competitive Florida grant in

year one, DeFuniak identified its opportunities and challenges by leveraging not only the funds but the technical assistance available from the DEO. DeFuniak Springs planning director Kelly Schultz and special project coordinator Lisa Gierlinski point to the two main target areas out of 10 that the mapping exercise identified: updating land development regulations and drafting an economic development strategy.

While beautiful and with a host of cultural and educational assets, the city suffered from a patchwork of land use regulations that held up any development coming their way.

“The comprehensive plan and zoning ordinances are in conflict, and there are many discrepancies,” Schultz explains.

“Developers would call and need amendments to the comp plan just to fit the zoning requirements they were trying to follow.”

It was obvious to Schultz that goal one was to create one less hurdle for residents and developers looking to invest in the DeFuniak Springs community.

The DEO grant also identified other areas of need for the community, including more youth activities, more jobs for young adults, affordable housing, community engagement and city cleanup.

“Really, we wanted to foster economic development and beautify our community, plus provide affordable housing,” Gierlinski says.

With the DEO funds, DeFuniak Springs will hire a consultant to comb the land development regulations and align them with the comprehensive plan so projects can move forward more easily and with less time and frustration. Gierlinski and Schultz believe that starting with a $40,000 investment via DEO second-year grant dollars

UP AND COMING The Century Park Apartments consist of 50 units that are three stories. The apartments are currently under construction on Second Street, which is the entrance to the parking lot of the Billy G. Ward Courthouse in century. There are floor plans ranging from 984 square feet to 1,291 square feet, two to four bedrooms and one to two bathrooms. Some of the apartments will be specifically intended and reserved for low-income residents.

will make the rest of their “bucket list” items more attainable.

In addition to the Competitive Florida funds, the Florida Department of Transportation’s widening of U.S. Highway 331 — a main corridor from Alabama to the Florida coast — will help facilitate traffic flow and ease the north-south bottlenecks that plague DeFuniak Springs.

As the main route to South Walton and its beaches, Schultz believes the synergy between the land-development regulation streamline and the highway widening will eventually pave the way for economic growth in the city.

“DeFuniak’s small staff was already stretched way too thin to accomplish all 10 items on our economic strategy plan’s list,” Gierlinski says. “But we got the most bang for our buck by doing the land-development regulation changes.”

Their next steps are to ask the city council to decide if it wants to go back and work on other items on the list.

With a grant writer coming on board in early 2017, there will be more hands to help look for funds. Main Street USA and Community Redevelopment Agency grants are available, as well as grants for preservation of DeFuniak Springs’ many historic buildings.

BUILDING ON ASSETS These communities’ results from the DEO Competitive Florida grants are as diverse as the people they represent, but everyone appreciates the unique perspective from which the DEO program came.

“The Competitive Florida grants really focus on the existing assets in each community,” White Springs’ Miller says.

“What do you have to work with, and what are the problems you want — and need — to solve?”

Port St. Joe’s Holley echoes this sentiment, but with a more economic-minded bent.

“Rural Florida has the space, low cost, people and standard of living that makes it competitive with urban areas in terms of a company’s return on investment,” he says.

The DEO’s grant program was a springboard for these and many other communities to harness what makes them different and market it to businesses looking for location, workforce and support.

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BAY CORRIDOR

Panama City, Panama City Beach + Bay County

‘Truly A Gift’ E.F. San Juan is a generational company By Matt Algarin

E

dward San Juan Jr. was born in Miami but spent his formative years in Thomasville, Georgia, just north of Tallahassee.

As a youngster, he spent his days alongside his father, Edward San Juan Sr., who goes by Ed, and his grandfather, Edward. Both men were skilled at working wood with their hands and operated a business making stands for televisions. Their passion for craftsmanship helped form the team that would become E.F. San Juan, a custom molding and millwork operation based in Bay County’s Youngstown.

“My dad’s passion is manufacturing,” Edward San Juan Jr. said. “That rubbed off on me, and we love what we do here. We love seeing things in our mind, then creating them in our shop and seeing them as a finished product in someone’s home.”

The E.F. San Juan product line can be seen up and down the 30A corridor in Walton County from Seaside, where the company got its foot in the door when the New Urbanism community first took root, to WaterColor, Rosemary Beach and Alys Beach.

“30A is our showroom,” San Juan said.

“We’ve been very fortunate to have our products in various communities there, and we’ve grown with the area.”

San Juan, who celebrated his 53rd birthday in October, has been part of the E.F. San Juan ownership team with his father since the 1980s, although he has been sweeping floors and hauling materials for as long as he can remember. Upon joining the family business, which celebrated its 40-year anniversary in 2016, San Juan said they revamped their business plan

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IN THE FAMILY Left to right: Edward San Juan Jr., Ed San Juan Sr., brother-in-law Buddy Czubaj and Edward’s son, Eddie, all hold significant roles within the company.

Photos by MICHAEL BOOINI

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with the goal to get out of manufacturing and begin offering finished products.

Early on, San Juan wasn’t sure how the move would pan out, but it definitely has.

“We (San Juan and his wife) were used to starving in college, so we didn’t know any better,” he recalled of the initial uncertainty. “We just stuck to it and had the desire to make it work.”

CUSTOM CUT E.F. San Juan One of the cornerstones specializes in custom-made molding, millwork, window and door products. of the E.F. San Juan operation is its focus on family, as Edward’s son Eddie has become the third generation of the San Juan family to join the business. Sure, they strive to offer top-notch products and customer service, but family is key.

Each workday begins the same way, San Juan says. It’s almost like a scene out of the movie “Groundhog Day.” “When we get to work, I’ll give my dad and my son a hug and kiss,” he said. “Then we eat lunch together every day in my office. At the end of the day, before we leave, I will give my dad and my son both a hug and a kiss.

“It’s truly a gift to be able to work with my son and my father,” he added. “It truly is humbling.”

Given the importance of family to the E.F. San Juan team, it should be no surprise that they have formed a lasting partnership with the Marvin Family of Brands, which produces a variety of custom-made window and door products. Marvin is a family-owned and operated business based in Warroad, Minnesota.

During a September luncheon in WaterColor, San Juan introduced Susan Marvin, former company president and current vice chair of the Marvin board of directors, to a room full of builders and industry professionals. The company named Paul Marvin, Susan’s nephew and a fourth-generation family member, as president in January.

“In my generation, we started on the factory floor, or I should say by sweeping the factory floor, and cleaning the bathrooms and unloading lumber,” Susan Marvin said of her humble beginnings at the company. “Dad drove home the importance of relying on our own hard work and initiative, and that our own future was dependent upon us and nothing else.”

The hard work, commitment to family and desire to grow as a business are traits and values San Juan admires and puts forth in his own business on a daily basis.

“If I want to grow and be part of a bigger company, I have to learn from companies and people that I look up to,” he said. “I look up to the Marvin family. They are great people, and they share the same commitment to quality and family.”

BOHEMIAN BABE: your guide to this blooming trend

MAKING HAPPY COUPLES EVEN HAPPIER THE BEST VENDORS & VENUES

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Sip and Savor: creative libation and dining tips

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contents

issue 4 coastal 19 weddings

20 New Coastal Cool ilton Sandestin Beach 22 H Golf Resort & Spa 24 WaterColor Inn 26 The Pearl Hotel 28 ResortQuest

33 ALICIA OSBORNE PHOTOGRAPHY

SHANNON GRIFFIN PHOTOGRAPHY

city weddings

FSU Alumni Center Tallahassee Downtown Food for Thought Staybridge Suites The Gathering Four Points by Sheraton Creative Craft Cocktails DoubleTree Hotel Hotel Duval

34 36 40 42 44 46 48 50 54

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country weddings

60 Back to Their Roots

62 Arnett’s Gulfside Farm & Stables

PURE 7 STUDIOS

aking 65 mit happen

On the Cover BOHEMIAN BABE: your guide to this blooming trend

MAKING HAPPY COUPLES EVEN HAPPIER THE BEST VENDORS & VENUES

+

Sip and Savor: creative libation and dining tips

402

WAYS TO CELEBRATE YOUR LOVE STORY

Beachy-keen

New waves of beach wedding trends and honeymoon hot spots

Puppy love turned true love! For our 2017 cover, Luke and Olivia Weaver pose with their pup, Wrigley. This little family was too cute not to fetch our attention. Black & Hue Photography was not lacking in photo opportunities with tender moments between the couple, playful pup outtakes and their gorgeous Tallahassee venue, Goodwood Museum & Gardens. As residents of Tallahassee and Luke as a former pitcher for the Florida State Seminoles (currently pitcher for the St. Louis Cardinals), the couple shares an affinity for Northwest Florida. We think they are pitch perfect!

66 Bridal Party Bounty

68 D ream Gowns 72 Becoming a Blushing, Beautiful and Balanced Bride

74 Andrew’s Catering

76 Fisher’s Flowers

79 Wedding Planning in a Digital Age

80 John Gandy Events

84 Sunshine Shuttles

oneymoon 93 hdestinations 94 Bridal Bon Voyage

96 ResortQuest NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS 2017

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creatively

catering

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With sparkling emerald water and sugar-white sand to complement the beauty of any bride, ResortQuest by Wyndham Vacation Rentals offers many gorgeous properties to serve as a backdrop for a memorable beach wedding. From private beach homes to luxurious Gulf-front condos, we provide a variety of event space along Northwest Florida beaches. Our locations along the scenic Gulf of Mexico are perfect for an extended stay to incorporate a romantic honeymoon or a vacation for the entire wedding party. Call us or visit our website to book the wedding of your dreams along Florida’s Emerald Coast!

Call or visit us online for more information! 866-267-1008 | NWFLWeddings.com | FloridaWeddings@ResortQuest.com

#FollowUsToTheBeach 2013, 2014 & 2015 Fla. Seller of Travel Reg. No. ST-38182. Washington Seller of Travel Reg. No. 603118961. Wyndham Vacation Rentals and related marks are registered trademarks and/or service marks in the United States and internationally. All rights reserved. Printed in the U.S.A. 14 Sylvan Way, Parsippany, NJ 07054 Š2016 Wyndham Vacation Rentals North America, LLC.

850.747.1362 619 HWY. 231 PANAMA CITY, FL SHOPDREAMGOWNS.COM NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS 2017

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online access

from the editor

Your DreamedAbout Day

weddings.net

NORTHWESTFLORIDA

With your Pinterest board active and your phone full of apps, Northwest Florida Weddings Magazine’s website is a convenient, informative and on-trend resource you should add to your wedding planning toolbox. Scroll, click and search our site for insightful stories, talented photographers, stunning venues, mouthwatering caterers, planning guides and much more. New this year are click-through showcase pages, which provide additional layers of information about each vendor featured within the magazine. From sandy shores to luxurious hotels to oak-shaded plantations, explore the vibrant and romantic wedding scene that Northwest Florida furnishes.

COME SEE US AT WEDDING SHOWS We love to share the beauty of Northwest Florida. During 2017 we will be attending bridal shows in order to showcase why Northwest Florida could be your ideal wedding or honeymoon location.

Check out our events calendar to see if we will be in a city near you.

Be Featured!

For the hottest wedding trends and updates

» DIGITAL EDITIONS In order to have a copy of Northwest Florida Weddings Magazine everywhere you go, our digital editions provide the exact same pages but clickable! It’s the same magazine you know and love with easy, virtual access. » WEDDING BLOG We vow to keep you apprised with the latest in trends and tips through our blog section, which features topics ranging from floral décor to budgeting.

follow us on all social media. From your cake tasting to invitations, let us see how your Northwest Florida wedding planning is unfolding by using the hashtag #NWFLWeddings for a chance to be featured on our platforms or in an upcoming issue. facebook.com/NorthwestFloridaWeddings @NorthwestFLWeddings @NWFLWeddings pinterest.com/NWFLWeddings

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»

As the editor of a weddings magazine, I’m going to admit something that is likely not expected of me: As a little girl, I did not dream about my wedding day. I cannot recall a time where I was the officiant of a Barbie-and-Ken doll wedding. Even now, I do not have a Pinterest board dedicated to wedding planning. Don’t get me wrong — I have nothing against weddings. In fact, quite the opposite.

I think that love is one of the most powerful and sensational feelings you can express, and I am close to many couples that are inspiring examples of admirable marriages. Marriage, to me, is sacred. For these reasons I would not feel comfortable planning a wedding without fully knowing the man who will be standing opposite me at the altar.

Until I know the man on his knee has both my head and my heart, I won’t plan our wedding. The keyword being “our.” I’ve always felt this way, but I haven’t always known why. It took loving someone selflessly, unconditionally and entirely to know that a relationship is not about me; it’s about us.

If you’re reading this magazine, you likely have a sparkler on your ring finger and no uncertainties about the person who placed it there. You are now ready to plan your most memorable day together.

Throughout these pages, you will meet the most talented, hospitable, knowledgeable and attentive wedding service providers in Northwest Florida. I would know; I’ve spoken with them all, and I would not leave you in less-than-capable hands.

As you read, research and smile your way through all 100 pages, know that each one was carefully assembled with love. I hope an eye-catching advertisement leads you to a service, our stunning photography inspires you and our heartfelt words make you pause and reflect on all that led you to this moment.

I wish for your wedding planning to be an adventure that leads to a wedding that fulfills you both and results in a love story that is more ardent, compassionate and loving than you ever imagined.

You can wake up now; reality is better than your dreams.

Best,

Rebecca Padgett, Editor

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contributing photographers

Aislinn Kate Photography

Alena Bakutis Photography

Alicia Osborne Photography

Amanda Howell Photography

Amy Riley Photography

August Paul

Autumn & Melinda Photography

Black & Hue Photography

Brenna Kneiss Photography

Desiree Gardner Photography

J&J Weddings

Just Wright Photography

aislinnkatephotography.com | (850) 912-4888 featured on p. 24-25

amyrileyphotography.com | (850) 819-9037 featured on p. 94

brennakneiss.com | (850) 726-0339 featured on p. 26-27

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alenabakutis.com | (850) 778-5370 featured on p. 41, 61

augustpaul.com | (850) 443-4796 featured on p. 50-51

desireegardner.com | (850) 215-8015 featured on p. 69

NORTHWESTFLORIDAWEDDINGS.NET

aliciaosbornephoto.com | (850) 510-2929 featured on p. 7, 38-39, 48, 60

autumnandmelinda.com | (773) 480-2187 featured on p. 29

jandjweddings.com | (850) 445-4004 featured on p. 42-43

amandahowellphoto.com | (850) 933-1700 featured on p. 36-37

Black & Hue Photography | (850) 443-4796 featured on Cover, p. 40-41, 60-61, 65

justwrightphotos.com | (850) 628-3293 featured on p. 69

Kiersten Grant Photography

Kylene and Ryan Studios

Lesley Isacks Photography

Mi Amore Foto

Modernmade Weddings

Pure 7 Studios

Sandprints Photography

Sarah & Paul Photography

Sunset Images Photography

SWAK Photography

Tiffany & Lens Photo

Woodland Fields Photography

kierstengrant.com | (850) 867-9456 featured on p. 69

modernmadeweddings.com | (202) 549-6943 featured on p. 21

sunsetimagesphotography.com | (850) 642-0605 featured on p. 22-23

kyleneandryan.com | (850) 778-5197 featured on p. 54

pure7studios.com | (850) 654-6523 featured on p. 7, 93

swakphotography.com | (850) 866-5389 featured on p. 68-69

isacksphoto.com | (850) 687-7027 featured on p. 62, 63

miamorefoto.com | (904) 545-0432 featured on p. 7

sandprintsphotography.com | (850) 225-5514 featured on p. 30

(850) 321-9554 featured on p. 46-47

sarahlynandpaul.com | (850) 888-0432 featured on p. 19, 28

woodlandfieldsphotography.com | (850) 559-1095 featured on p. 20, 21, 33-35, 49, 52-53, 55, 59, 60, 74-75, 80-83

Want More Information?

Visit us online and check out our exclusive Photographers Index. You’ll have access to photographer bios and their work in past issues. It will also send you directly to their blogs and portfolios.

Want to get in touch with a photographer? Their contact information can also be found online.

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS 2017

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Happily Ever After Starts Here

Love and cherish every moment of your wedding, from romantic white beaches to venues overlooking the Choctawhatchee Bay. Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort offers the perfect location for an unforgettable wedding day at the #1 Resort on Florida’s Emerald Coast.

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SARAH AND PAUL PHOTOGRAPHY

the coast

When you picture your wedding day, is it on the coast of somewhere beautiful? Northwest Florida boasts unrivaled beaches with sand white enough to match your dress, emerald waves to emphasize your eyes and a bevy of beautiful resorts at your service.

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS 2017

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the coast

New Coastal Cool Couples forsake seashells in a new wave of beach trends

WOODLAND FIELDS PHOTOGRAPHY

By Rebecca Padgett

N

orthwest Florida claims some of the most coveted beaches in the world — beaches that provide beautiful backdrops for weddings that feel like vacations. As far as beach weddings go, you either love them or you would never dare; but it’s clear that beach weddings won’t blow away with the sands of time.

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“Couples will always be drawn to the beach. I don’t think that will ever change,” said Cheryl Walton, Senior Wedding Sales & Services Manager at St. Joe Club & Resorts. “The views are stunning, the sounds are tranquil and the sunsets are breathtaking. The beach is a happy place for many people.”

With sun shining down upon your ceremony, you’ve already got beauty on your side; but how do you make your wedding stand out in a sea full of shells, seafood and blue hues? The world is your oyster, so open your mind and discover some amazing trends that are perfect for your coastal wedding.

WOODLAND FIELDS PHOTOGRAPHY

MODERNMADE WEDDINGS

WOODLAND FIELDS PHOTOGRAPHY

Rather than the typical Florida beach vacation-style wedding, why not consider a chic fishing village or Caribbean escape? Both allow for unique décor incorporations that are easy to find and execute.

“The trend has shifted, slightly, from beachy to coastal chic,” said Walton. “Think less shells and sand and more driftwood, white coral and sea fans. Bring in things like old fishing carts, and nautical fabrics for the guest tables. Use old vintage postcards from the beach for your guest book, and leave in a vintage beach Jeep or Bronco.”

Typically, the ceremony will take place on the sand, which caters to a relaxed, fun and inclusive atmosphere. Invite guests to ditch their shoes for complimentary flip-flops, and if the vows are said midday, hand out sunglasses, so they won’t be blinded by the sunshine and your love. For a whimsical photo opportunity, allow guests to throw brightly colored beach balls as you exit the ceremony or reception.

If you want the beach vibes but don’t want to risk temperamental Florida weather, the theme is still possible indoors.

“Any beach décor can be brought inside, excluding the sand,” said Carol Juneau, Weddings & Special Events Manager at Hilton Sandestin. “Driftwood, lanterns and bamboo arbors will definitely give ballrooms a beach vibe.”

Buoys, fishing nets and seashells can make their appearances, but let statement-makers like pineapple-and-floral centerpieces, beach umbrella lounge-spaces and sandcastle “cakes” steal the show.

Paddleboards or surfboards, propped up table-style, make for excellent serving stations. Jerk chicken, kabobs, pineapple-cured ham, plantains, poke (a Hawaiian salad made with raw fish), coconut cake and more make for an island-centric menu. But, quality seafood will always be in its best form at a coastal wedding.

“Incorporate seafood as much as possible, with crab cakes, tuna tartare, fish tacos or a stacked raw bar,” said Juneau.

One of the many beauties of a beach wedding is that it promotes leisure and lightheartedness. Crack open a beer from a rowboat that acts as a cooler and head over for some beach bowling, with pineapples as pins and coconuts as bowling balls. For children — or the kid at heart — sand pails and shovels provide entertainment and a takeaway item. Park beach cruisers outdoors and indoors, and fill the baskets with flowers. They can serve as décor, and then the happy couple can speed off on them at sunset.

Long after the color palette has been picked and the dress has been fitted, you will delight in knowing you have chosen a location where many decide to honeymoon. Your guests will be busy noshing on raw oysters and dancing under the stars, so be sure to sneak away with your partner to immerse your feet in sand and your hearts in happiness. on raw oysters and dancing under the stars, so be sure to sneak away with your partner to immerse your feet in sand and your hearts in happiness.

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HILTON SANDESTIN BEACH GOLF RESORT & SPA Miramar Beach

“We loved Hilton Sandestin Beach because all of the services were included in one package.

Since we are from Texas, that was the easiest and best option for us. The best part was I didn’t have to worry about a thing. Everything we asked for, they provided.

At a Glance ▪▪ INDOOR VENUE ▪▪ OUTDOOR VENUE ▪▪ CATERING ▪▪ PLANNING AND COORDINATION ▪▪ HONEYMOON ACCOMMODATIONS ▪▪ DINING ▪▪ SPA SERVICES

“I was truly able to enjoy the day. That was my main goal — to be calm, relaxed and be fully in the moment. We wrote our own vows, and I still remember every moment and every word.

Hilton Sandestin Beach took care of everything. All I had to do was show up and marry the man of my dreams.” - Emily LaFleur, Houston, Texas PHOTOS BY SUNSET IMAGES

(850) 267-9500 // HiltonSandestinBeach.com 4000 Sandestin Blvd. S., Miramar Beach, FL 32550

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WATERCOLOR INN & RESORT Santa Rosa Beach

“We looked at a lot of different places in the area, but to me, Watercolor felt the most warm and welcoming. It was also the most beautiful and natural. When I sat down with the staff I gave them all of my ideas, but they made my vision even better and more beautiful than I had imagined.

They understood my vision and enhanced it.

At a Glance ▪▪ INDOOR VENUE ▪▪ OUTDOOR VENUE ▪▪ CATERING ▪▪ PLANNING AND COORDINATION ▪▪ HONEYMOON ACCOMMODATIONS ▪▪ DINING ▪▪ SPA SERVICES

“I received wonderful compliments about all aspects of the wedding. Guests especially loved the area and said they would definitely come back to vacation. The entire day was exciting, but what made it so special was having all of the people we loved most come together in one place.” Allison Earley Amos, Nashville, Tennessee PHOTOS BY AISLINN KATE PHOTOGRAPHY

(850) 231-7773 // WatercolorResort.com 34 Goldenrod Circle, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459

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THE PEARL HOTEL Rosemary Beach

“We had been visiting the area and knew that Rosemary Beach was the most special place to us. We wanted to have an out-of-town wedding that was small and intimate. After we toured The Pearl, we knew it was the perfect place to bring our friends and family. We didn’t ask for a whole lot because the architecture is stunning already, but the coordinators made sure everything went smoothly and perfectly. They are completely focused on making brides happy.

“The wedding was held on the cabana roof deck providing gorgeous views of the Gulf at sunset accompanied by an acoustic performance. Everyone enjoyed snacks and drinks while sitting next to the fireplaces. It was breathtaking. I still can’t get over how perfect the day was. I woke up the next day still excited.” - Alexandra Grissim, Nashville, Tennessee PHOTOS BY BRENNA KNEISS

At a Glance ▪▪ INDOOR VENUE ▪▪ OUTDOOR VENUE ▪▪ CATERING ▪▪ PLANNING AND COORDINATION ▪▪ HONEYMOON ACCOMMODATIONS ▪▪ DINING ▪▪ RENTAL SERVICES ▪▪ SPA SERVICES ▪▪ THIRD PARTY VENDORS AVAILABLE ▪▪ DECORATING SERVICES ▪▪ BARTENDING SERVICES (850) 460-9040 // ThePearlRB.com 63 Main St., Rosemary Beach, FL 32461

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SARAH & PAUL PHOTOGRAPHY

PENELOPE L'AMORE PHOTOGRAPHY

PENELOPE L'AMORE PHOTOGRAPHY

SARAH & PAUL PHOTOGRAPHY

PENELOPE L'AMORE PHOTOGRAPHY

the coast

RESORTQUEST BY WYNDHAM VACATION RENTALS Endless Possibilities. Multiple Locations.

At a Glance ▪▪ INDOOR VENUE ▪▪ OUTDOOR VENUE ▪▪ HONEYMOON ACCOMMODATIONS

“I love listening to what each couple envisions for their wedding and what ambience they would like.

From there, we can share options that cater to their vision. We offer a wide variety from condos to homes that are wedding friendly. We cater to everyone’s style and budget.

“It comes down to the happiness of the couple and being able to hear them say their wedding day was exactly what they wanted. Each couple is unique, but the success is knowing that we helped to make their day the best from start to finish. It all starts with a wedding, but we hope they continue to visit ResortQuest as a family tradition.” - Kristen Cagadas, Wedding Sales Manager PHOTOS BY PENELOPE L'AMORE PHOTOGRAPHY AND SARAH & PAUL PHOTOGRAPHY

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(888) 412-6408 // NWFLWeddings.com 546 Mary Esther Cutoff NW, Suite 3 Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548

the coast

SUNDESTIN MANAGED BY RESORTQUEST Destin

“As a bride to be I was nervous to invest in a destination wedding at first. I knew it would be a beautiful wedding, but I thought it would be stressful being 1,000 miles away. I felt a sigh of relief when I met with ResortQuest and knew I needed to look no further. From the day we met until I walked down the aisle they put us first and assured us everything would be perfect. It was!

“Every person on the staff made us and our guests feel at home rather than just people who were vacationing at their resort. Everyone had the time of their lives. I will forever be grateful to ResortQuest for making it a magical and beautiful day.” – Amandalynn Combs, New Lennox, Illinois PHOTOS BY AUTUMN AND MELINDA PHOTOGRAPHY

At a Glance ▪▪ INDOOR VENUE ▪▪ OUTDOOR VENUES ▪▪ CATERING ▪▪ HONEYMOON ACCOMMODATIONS ▪▪ DINING

(888) 412-6408 // NWFLWeddings.com 546 Mary Esther Cutoff NW, Ste. 3 Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548

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TOPS’L BEACH & RACQUET RESORT MANAGED BY RESORTQUEST Destin

“We aren’t from Florida and booked Tops’l completely online. We had the opportunity to come visit when taking our engagement photos and knew we made the right decision. The staff walked us through the grounds and provided us with all of the details. We opted not to have a wedding planner, but we didn’t even need one — the staff was that helpful.

“On our wedding day, the sun was out and there wasn’t a cloud on the sky. My favorite part was when Jake and I were walking on the beach taking pictures. There’s a nature preserve next to the property, which made it beautiful and private. It was an unforgettable day on the beach with our friends and family.” – Megan Kendall, Nashville, Tennessee PHOTOS BY SANDPRINTS PHOTOGRAPHY

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At a Glance ▪▪ INDOOR VENUE ▪▪ OUTDOOR VENUE ▪▪ CATERING ▪▪ HONEYMOON ACCOMMODATIONS ▪▪ DINING

(888) 412-6408 // NWFLWeddings.com 546 Mary Esther Cutoff NW, Suite 3 Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548

Tallahassee’s best kept secret...

Staybridge Suites

1600 Summit Lake Drive Tallahassee, FL Staybridge.com/Tallahassee (850) 219-7010 NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS 2017

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the city

Bright lights, big city going to your head? Whether it’s the heart of your hometown or a beloved city that draws you in, contemporary hotels, industrial inns, downtowns brimming with history and glittering skylines all “put on the ritz” for citycentric couples.

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FSU ALUMNI CENTER Tallahassee

“Originally, we were hesitant because I graduated from FSU, but my husband graduated from Clemson so, there’s a big rivalry. But, once we went in and saw the venue we knew that was where we wanted to hold our reception. There’s this gorgeous outdoor area with these big oak trees that hang over everything, and that’s what did it for us.

“My husband and I both agree that our first dance was the most special moment because it was right after we were introduced as Mr. and Mrs. Miller and we were surrounded by everyone we love.”

- Erin Miller, Tallahassee, Florida PHOTOS BY WOODLAND FIELDS PHOTOGRAPHY

At a Glance ▪ INDOOR VENUE ▪ OUTDOOR VENUE ▪ CATERING SERVICES ▪ PLANNING AND COORDINATION ▪ RENTAL SERVICES ▪ DECORATING SERVICES ▪ BARTENDING SERVICES ▪ DESIGN AND DÉCOR INSTALLATIONS ▪ PRODUCTION/EVENT DESIGN ▪ LINEN RENTALS

(850) 645-9255 // Alumni.FSU.edu 1030 W. Tennessee St., Tallahassee, FL 32304

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TALLAHASSEE DOWNTOWN Tallahassee

“Tallahassee downtown is rich in history with modern influences, which perfectly cater to every bride-to-be. There are four churches and plenty of parks surrounded by hotels, spacious banquet halls and countless amenities. The churches offer tradition, the hotels are modern, the parks provide nature, The Edison reveals history with a contemporary twist and The Challenger Learning Center allows you to get married in a planetarium under the stars.

At a Glance ▪ INDOOR VENUE ▪ OUTDOOR VENUE ▪ DINING ▪ HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS

“The biggest appeal of a downtown wedding is the availability of conveniences all in one area. Guests can dine at a variety of restaurants, be fitted for tuxedoes at Nic’s Toggery, walk to the wedding in a nearby park and continue the reception in the hotel in which they are staying.” - Paige Carter-Smith, CEO of Tallahassee Downtown PHOTOS BY AMANDA HOWELL

SayIDoDowntown.com // TallahasseeDowntown.com 106 E. Jefferson St., Tallahassee, FL 32301

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TALLAHASSEE DOWNTOWN Tallahassee

“Christopher and I live true to the motto: live, work, play. It was the most natural selection for us to choose everything that was in the area that we live in and work in: downtown. It’s a lovely atmosphere, and everyone in that area does a great job of working together, from the Governor’s Inn to the Governor’s Club to Aloft Hotel.

At a Glance ▪ INDOOR VENUE ▪ OUTDOOR VENUE ▪ DINING

“We wanted a New Orleans-style, and we chose the vendors that locally embody that ‘let the good times roll’ attitude. Having it on New Year’s Eve gave everyone a reason to party.

We were totally overwhelmed with love and support, and then at the ceremony my grandpa tripped. It was moments like this that made it all so perfect.” - Elizabeth Emmanuel, Tallahassee, Florida PHOTOS BY ALICIA OSBORNE PHOTOGRAPHY

SayIDoDowntown.com // TallahasseeDowntown.com 106 E. Jefferson St., Tallahassee, FL 32301

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Food for Thought Food bars and creative presentations allow couple to express themselves

By Alexandra Pushkin

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erhaps one of the most anticipated aspects of planning a wedding is sampling and selecting the perfect foods and libations to dazzle the guests and complement the theme of the celebration. While buffets and traditional sit-down dinners are timeless, incorporating non-traditional foods and build-your-own bars into a celebration creates an alternative to the predetermined menu.

“Weddings have become so much more personal these days,” explains Amanda Morrison, managing partner of Social Catering & Events in Tallahassee. “Instead of selecting a traditional meal, couples are really looking for ways to infuse their personalities, memories and favorite things into their big day, and the menu is no exception.”

The food bar and buffet concept can be tailored to reflect the personalities of the bride and groom and surprise any guest expecting something standard. The couple may choose to pick items they ate on their first date or foods that reflect their cultures. A “food for thought”style menu incorporates dishes that transport guests through taste and there are no boundaries.

“We’ve done Indian cuisine, paella stations, whole pigs, Italian feasts, family-style with passed dishes, jazz brunches, blues and barbeques, seafood stations, oyster bars, low country boils, sushi rolled to order and more,” said Todd Rogers, corporate executive chef of St. Joe Club & Resorts in Watersound. “There really isn’t a limit anymore to what can be done for food at a wedding.”

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Many couples now turn to organic, locally sourced foods. Alison Chaney of Andrew’s Catering in Tallahassee says local traditions are bringing about their own themes.

“We’ve noticed a lot of new Southern food, and raw bars are becoming increasingly popular due to our proximity to the Gulf,” Chaney says. “Bringing two stations together is common, such as incorporating something Southern into a sliders bar. It’s about taking something that people like and serving it in a different way.”

Providing one-of-a-kind local finds will give guests a taste of local culture, connect the

wedding with its surroundings and create an event exclusive to the wedding’s destination.

Chaney emphasizes using elements of the location to complement the food and spotlight the wedding’s backdrop. The presentation can influence the perception of the food.

“Signage makes the table feel more elegant,” Chaney says. “Look for alternatives more appealing to the eye than a chafing dish.” Vintage desks, farm tables, wooden barrels, ornate dressers and pretty pedestals are just some of the options for displaying food. Or set aside tables completely in favor of food trucks — a noteworthy way for

couples to showcase their beloved snacks.

“Fun, creative food stations are a happy medium that allow guests to still feel at ease, but enjoy a great meal and sample a little taste of everything,” Morrison says. “It goes back to breaking tradition and incorporating things that are special to the couple.”

Regardless of whether you choose to stick with tradition or go with a unique dish or two, keep in mind that it’s a busy day, and not just for the happy couple.

Throughout it all, there is one key ingredient to keeping guests energized: great food.

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STAYBRIDGE SUITES Tallahassee

At a Glance ▪ INDOOR VENUE ▪ OUTDOOR VENUE

“Staybridge was convenient for us because they allowed us to use our own vendors and helped us set up everything we needed. The staff went above and beyond to make sure the outdoor space we used was perfect.

“Our guests enjoyed the atmosphere and feel of our wedding. The live music and fireworks set the perfect stage for the night. There was a distinct moment while everyone was dancing when I looked around and saw smiles on everyone’s faces. The music was perfect, the sun was setting over the lake and everything was gorgeous.” - Taylor Anne Short, Tallahassee, Florida

PHOTOS BY J&J WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY

(850) 219-7000 // Staybridge.com/Tallahassee 1600 Summit Lake Drive, Tallahassee, FL 32317

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THE GATHERING Tallahassee

“The space reminded us of our apartment when we lived in Washington D.C., the industrial look, brick walls, concrete floors and the exposed duct work. We just loved the look and style of it. When we first went and looked, there were a few changes we wanted made, and the team with The Gathering made those changes. In fact, they made it look even better than before. They were very accommodating and worked well with our planners. They even let us use a nearby apartment as a bridal suite, which was wonderful.

“The most special part though was our vows. We wrote our own. My husband had admitted before that has was nervous to write them. So, I said we can make them short. The day of, he unrolled a scroll. Everyone cried and clapped.” - Melissa Jaacks, Tallahassee, Florida PHOTOS BY NINA NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY

At a Glance ▪ INDOOR VENUE ▪ OUTDOOR VENUE ▪ CATERING SERVICES ▪ PLANNING AND COORDINATION ▪ DINING ▪ THIRD PARTY VENDERS AVAILABLE ▪ DECORATING SERVICES ▪ BARTENDING SERVICES ▪ DESIGN AND DÉCOR INSTALLATIONS ▪ PRODUCTION/EVENT DESIGN ▪ LINEN RENTALS (850) 228-6817 // GatheringTallahassee.com 705 S. Woodward Ave., Unit 201, Tallahassee, FL 32304

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TIFFANY & LENS PHOTOGRAPHY REKINDLE PHOTOGRAPHY

REKINDLE PHOTOGRAPHY

TIFFANY & LENS PHOTOGRAPHY

FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON TALLAHASSEE DOWNTOWN Tallahassee

“Four Points was a wonderful compromise. I wanted an outdoor wedding, but my family wanted it to take place at a hotel. If it was going to be at a hotel, it had to be the most unique hotel in Tallahassee. It is eco-friendly and very progressive. We just knew!

“The staff was incredible. When we had our wedding, Hurricane Hermine had just hit Tallahassee. They were so accommodating despite being short staffed. They made sure every guest got there and was safe. There was so much stress leading up to it, but as soon as we arrived, they handled everything from the rehearsal dinner to the ceremony to breakfast the next day. Walking down the aisle, I forgot everything. It was just me and my husband in that beautiful room.” - Deidre M. Barnes, Tallahassee, Florida PHOTOS BY TIFFANY & LENS PHOTOGRAPHY AND REKINDLE PHOTOGRAPHY

At a Glance ▪ INDOOR VENUE ▪ OUTDOOR VENUE ▪ CATERING SERVICES ▪ ACCOMMODATIONS ▪ DINING

(850) 422-4200 // FourPointsTallahasseeDowntown.com 316 W. Tennessee St., Tallahassee, FL 32301

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Creative Craft Cocktails Your drink menu shaken, not stirred

By Maria Knight

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here’s no doubt that an exceptional cocktail selection adds some spirit to your wedding reception. You and your guests can unwind with a traditional whiskeybased New York sour or shake things up with a pineapplerum-tea punch. Either way, the cocktails at your wedding can be a worry-free addition with a little resourceful planning by a talented bartender.

When it comes to cocktails, simplification can make a sophisticated statement at your wedding. “Drinks with six, seven, eight or nine ingredients can be great, but there’s something to be said for three-ingredient cocktails made with high-quality ingredients and impeccable technique,” says Terry Logue, head bartender of The Blu Halo in Tallahassee.

There’s no shame in shaking up your beverages by adding in an unexpected twist. “One of the simplest things you can do is change the spirit, as long as the flavor still works,”

of your location. Keep it fresh, keep it simple, and yet be creative.”

An easy, fun fix for drinks is to “batch” your cocktails. Have your cocktails prepped beforehand, pour them into eye-catching serving containers with glassware nearby, and you’re bartender-free. Logue recommends batching your cocktails to save money and time, especially for larger weddings. Have more on standby, though: Serve-your-owns will pour out and pass around, fast.

Presentation can be just as valuable as the stuff you’re sipping on. Cut-glass crystal goblets, gold adorned champagne flutes or colored highball glasses make the drink all the more fun to carry around. Your ingredients can also serve as décor: an edible orchid for spring, bright citrus for summer, a sprig of rosemary in the fall and cranberries for your winter wedding.

A creative cocktail theme that many couples are embracing is individualized libation options. The bride may be a lover of gin, while the groom is loyal to whiskey. Each concocts a beverage option that is served, and then the guests choose which drink they like best.

Glasses will clink in a toast to the newlywed couple, so make sure your libation is something that goes down easy and welcomes further toasting!

WOODLAND FIELDS PHOTOGRAPHY

ALICIA OSBORNE PHOTOGRAPHY WOODLAND FIELDS PHOTOGRAPHY

says Eric Pounders of Madison Social in Tallahassee.

“For example, the French 75 is a classic cocktail with gin, lemon, sugar and champagne. By replacing the gin with a nice whiskey or bourbon, you have a great modern twist on a very traditional cocktail.”

In the world of weddings, straightforward ingredients and natural presentations are an upand-coming trend. One-of-a-kind drinks can be as modest as a La Rosette, a champagne cocktail with a little St. Germain and pansy or fresh fruit garnish.

This trouble-free cocktail is refreshing and smooth with a fruity tang — perfect for guests who want a relaxing bubbly to sip on while they mingle.

Making the drinks at the reception should be a fairly quick, easy task. “It is always smart to avoid anything that requires muddling or several steps,” Pounders says. “Guests at a wedding want to get drinks as quickly as they can, and several-step cocktails or muddling can slow the bar down.”

Corey Jernigan, bartender at The Pearl Havana Beach Bar & Grill in Rosemary Beach agrees about keeping it simple.

“Some of the best cocktails I have created for weddings were three to four ingredients,” said Jernigan. “Use seasonal ingredients and be mindful

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THE DOUBLETREE BY HILTON TALLAHASSEE Tallahassee

“The DoubleTree was already our favorite venue in town. At our first meeting, the catering and events team left us with the feeling that they would provide the highest quality of professionalism and service to not only us, but our family and guests. They made the planning process smooth and worry free by always providing open lines of communication.

“Our wedding was very modern with a little bit of glam thanks in large part to the architecture and décor of the DoubleTree. It was an enthusiastic and unpretentious celebration full of personal touches and really loving moments.” - Asia Roper, Tallahassee, Florida PHOTOS BY AUGUST PAUL

At a Glance ▪ INDOOR VENUE ▪ OUTDOOR VENUE ▪ CATERING SERVICES ▪ HOTEL PLANNING AND COORDINATION ▪ HONEYMOON ACCOMMODATIONS ▪ DINING ▪ RENTAL SERVICES ▪ THIRD PARTY VENDORS AVAILABLE ▪ DECORATING SERVICES ▪ BARTENDING SERVICES ▪ LINEN RENTALS (850) 224-5000 // Tallahassee.DoubleTree.com 101 S. Adams St., Tallahassee, FL 32301

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THE DOUBLETREE BY HILTON TALLAHASSEE Tallahassee

“The DoubleTree fit the look we were going for and it was the nearest hotel to the park we got married in. I wanted an elegant, outdoors evening wedding. They had recently remodeled, and they were the only hotel in downtown Tallahassee that could accommodate my vision. They worked very closely with my planner and anticipated all of my needs, making everything happen seamlessly and with no anxiety.

“Our guests loved the band, which was from Atlanta, the food and of course, the alcohol. It was an elegant party, exactly as I’d wanted.” - Dana Brooks Cooper, Tallahassee, Florida PHOTOS BY WOODLAND FIELDS PHOTOGRAPHY

At a Glance ▪ INDOOR VENUE ▪ OUTDOOR VENUE ▪ CATERING SERVICES ▪ HOTEL PLANNING AND COORDINATION ▪ HONEYMOON ACCOMMODATIONS ▪ DINING ▪ RENTAL SERVICES ▪ THIRD PARTY VENDORS AVAILABLE ▪ DECORATING SERVICES ▪ BARTENDING SERVICES ▪ LINEN RENTALS (850) 224-5000 // Tallahassee.DoubleTree.com 101 S. Adams St., Tallahassee, FL 32301

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DAMON TUCCI PHOTOGRAPHY

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COURTESY OF HOTEL DUVAL

COURTNEY MICHELLE PHOTOGRAPHY

HOTEL DUVAL Tallahassee

“They were the first venue that we went to visit. We just loved the look of the hotel, the cleanliness, the staff was on point and we really had our minds made up after that. We didn’t need to look anywhere else. They were very accommodating to everything we needed and wanted to do.

At a Glance ▪ INDOOR VENUE ▪ OUTDOOR VENUE ▪ CATERING ▪ PLANNING AND COORDINATION ▪ HONEYMOON ACCOMMODATIONS ▪ DINING

“The vision of our wedding was Chicago themed. They let us bring in Chicago-themed snacks, a steel drum band, huge pictures and they even let my grandmother, my aunts and friends bring in homemade pies. We hung thousands of orchids in their chandeliers — that was something they had never done before. All this was in my vision and they said, ‘Yes! Let’s do it!’ ” - Jaimie Roberts, Chicago, Illinois PHOTOS BY COURTNEY MICHELLE PHOTOGRAPHY, DAMON TUCCI PHOTOGRAPHY, KYLENE AND RYAN STUDIOS, WOODLAND FIELDS PHOTOGRAPHY AND COURTESY OF HOTEL DUVAL

(850) 224-6000 // HotelDuval.com 415 N. Monroe St., Tallahassee, FL 32301

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Weddings Duval by

... exactly like nothing else

HOTELDUVAL.COM WEDDINGSBYDUVAL.COM 415 N. Monroe St. · Tallahassee 850.224.6000

THE DONALD L. TUCKER CIVIC CENTER Where every detail is carefully planned and executed to make your special occasion a treasured memory

For over 30 years, the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center has earned a distinguished reputation for exquisite cuisine, friendly service and outstanding budget planning for thousands of clients. We realize how important your wedding day is to you, your family and friends.

Not only can we offer you the very finest in food and beverage selections, but also the very best in service, quality and products.

From your first meeting with one of our highly acclaimed Event Mangers, to every last detail of your event. We assure you that your expectations will be met in the most professional manner.

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Arnett’s Gulfside Ranch Weddings • 20-acre horse farm one mile from the beach • Comfortably accommodate up to 150 people plus a band and catering space with plenty of parking • Indoor and outdoor spaces available • Horse-drawn carriage services for bride arrival.

DestinFarmWeddings.com | EventsAtGulfside@gmail.com 613 County Highway 393 South | In Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459 | 850-208-3114 Photos courtesy of Lesley Isacks Photography

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the

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country

She’s gone country, back to her roots! With rolling hills and swaying oaks, Northwest Florida presents an atmosphere of rural beauty with rustic barns and sprawling plantation homes just around the bend.

Dust off your boots and dance under the stars.

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ALICIA OSBORNE PHOTOGRAPHY

the country

Back to

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Branch out by embracing the bohemian trend

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By Rebecca Padgett

n many ways, love is a metaphor for nature. It blooms and blossoms, birds sing about it, it flows in the air and it roots, grows and branches out, much like a tree. Emphasizing the link between romance and nature has become increasingly popular — to the point where couples are quite literally becoming one with nature.

It could be claimed that the bohemian trend stemmed from flower crowns adorning the heads of bridal parties; but while flowered headgear can certainly be incorporated into the theme, the primary purposes of bohemian weddings are nonconformity, free spiritedness and a appreciation of nature.

“Clients are drawn to bohemian style because it allows for an unconventional style,” said John Gandy of John Gandy Events.

“I think the bride and groom see it as their opportunity to create their own vision and express themselves in a more modern and nontraditional way. There are no rules!”

While the qualifications may be lax, ceremonies and receptions of the bohemian variety typically occur at outdoor venues and incorporate natural décor. If you could find it in a forest, it’s a go.

Berry-and-herb-infused bouquets; garlands of mosses, vines and flowers as streamers or table runners; unique stones and textured wood pieces as table toppers; feathers strung through trees and antlers as candleholders … all answer the call of the wild.

“Anything you see outdoors is perfect for this theme,” said Kristi Sanders, floral event designer with At Last Florals. “Brides often choose foliage mixed in with greenery, using statement blooms like peonies or garden roses and small, whimsical flowers for their bouquets.”

The bohemian bride feels most comfortable in flowing lace dresses, with loose curls or fishtails braids and a flower or two tucked in. The

BLACK AND HUE PHOTOGRAPHY

makeup is minimal: Dewy complexions and nude lips replace heavy eye makeup and bright lips.

“There are so many lace and flowing options that it makes it easy to find a gown to fit the boho theme,” said Lindsey Matthews, owner of Dream Gowns in Panama City. “The different vine and flower headpieces are a great way to incorporate the theme along with unique foot jewelry.”

Many delight in the idea of an informal reception that focuses of conversations, music and, most importantly, fun. Gandy explains that such a reception may include lounge areas that incorporate soft seating, vibrant colors and a variety of textures.

Think velvet cushions piled on top of oriental rugs, vintage sleigh couches, slouchy pillows, teepees and wooden swings, all under string lights. Instead of a sit-down dinner, guests can grab food from a farm-table spread and make their way to a lounge or gather at stand-around tables.

Incorporate a Volkswagen van as a photo backdrop, then drive away in it at the end of the night. Guests can leave with thank-you gifts, such as local honey, dream catchers or seeds they can plant. A bohemian-style reception is freeing, yet inclusive, exuding love to all.

“I think the laidback atmosphere of bohemian events appeal not only to the couples creating them, but also the guests attending them because of the casual, fun and loose environment it creates,” explained Cara Dollinger, event manager at Pebble Hill Plantation.

Weddings are monumental and important occasions, but that doesn’t mean they have to be sedated or even formal affairs. The bohemian bride would rather munch on food-truck fare while mingling than sit at a bridal table for a plated meal. She might be seen swaying on a wooden swing or dancing the night away, shoes peeled off long ago (if she wore them at all).

Whether you are a full-on flower child or just want to add a touch of the trend to your wedding, the theme is liberating, as you truly get to spread your wings, creatively. Let your imagination take root, and watch your love bloom.

ALENA BAKUTIS PHOTOGRAPHY

Their Roots

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ARNETT’S GULFSIDE FARM & STABLES Santa Rosa Beach

At a Glance ▪ I NDOOR VENUE ▪ O UTDOOR VENUE ▪ P LANNING AND COORDINATION ▪ R ENTAL SERVICES

A tranquil sanctuary nestled into the Point Washington State Forest, Arnett’s Gulfside Farm & Stables sits just one mile from the beautiful beaches along Scenic Highway 30-A, offering peace and seclusion. This 20-acre horse farm in Santa Rosa Beach provides a picturesque backdrop and setting for rustic ceremonies and receptions. Guests mingle and celebrate while horses graze nearby and towering pine trees sway in this untouched, natural landscape.

The accommodating staff can provide full wedding planning services allowing the bride and groom to fully cherish the importance of their day. Multiple horse-drawn carriages are available to deliver the married couple off into the sunset.

PHOTOS BY LESLEY ISACKS PHOTOGRAPHY

(850) 208-3114 // 30AFarmWeddings.com 613 S. County Highway 393 Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459

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making it

PHOTO BY BLACK AND HUE PHOTOGRAPHY

happen

Any way you want it, that’s the way you need it! From caterers to cake-makers or planners to paper products, we know the top-notch service providers throughout Northwest Florida.

Share your ideas and they take it from there, allowing you time to focus on what’s most important: each other.

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Bridal Party Bounty Couples are taking to showering their friends and family with gifts

By Alexandra Pushkin

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he purpose of bridal parties — that group of specially designated individuals that stands near the bride and groom at the wedding — wasn’t always to have your best friends by your side in matching attire. The Western tradition actually stemmed from the need to have witnesses present. Today, however, a bridal party is much, much more: It’s a representation of a bond, a steadfast support system and a symbol of lifelong friendships.

Couples today commonly bestow gifts upon the members of their bridal party, which also includes groomsmen, to convey gratitude.

Current trends call for giving a gift as unique as the person for whom it is intended, with a variety of items ready to be personalized.

Many brides will honor their bridesmaids with jewelry. Take this tradition one step further by customizing the jewelry with each

bridesmaid’s name, or, for a cleaner look, just use the first letter. As an alternative to names, try giving a necklace with a message.

Kimberly Waller of Hearth & Soul in Tallahassee suggests a Morse Code necklace, featuring gold dipped dots and dashes on a silk thread, that conveys positive messages and sentiments.

Lockets are timeless and treasured. Placing a picture of the bride and her bridesmaid in the locket creates a piece that is elegant on the outside and sentimental on the inside.

“Another great benefit of jewelry as a gift is, it’s one of the few items the wedding party can wear on the wedding day to perfectly complete their wardrobe whether its cufflinks, a watch, earrings, a bracelet or a necklace,” said Carolyn Brigman, vice president of McCaskill & Company Finest Jewelry & Watches in Destin.

LAWRENCE DAVIDSON

Sweetly pop the question with a “Will you be my bridesmaid?” box by Sugarfina.

Cheers to your best gals with matching Tervis cups from Coton Colors. Say it in code through a friendship necklace by Pettina. Sip in style out of a customized groomsman flask.

Show the parents you’re thankful for their support with a keepsake Coton Colors ornament.

Bridesmaid proposals have become a pre-wedding tradition, where the bride “proposes” to those she wants for her bridal party. “It’s customary to give gifts at the bridal luncheon a day or two before the wedding,” said Kyle Johnson Smith, Coton Colors’ Design Manager. “Something that is becoming increasingly popular is giving gifts when asking bridesmaids to be in your bridal party.”

Personalized accessories that can be used to prepare on the wedding day, such as monogrammed totes, makeup bags and water bottles, are becoming popular.

“You can create a gift box with a wedding party Tervis (insulated bottle) paired with a festive drink, along with some other wedding day necessities and accessories to use throughout the day,” explains Johnson Smith. “Plus, a Tervis is something they

will be able to use during the wedding and will pull together those details that make the day so memorable.”

Needless to say, candy will always be an excellent choice. “We love all things Sugarfina,” said Waller. “The wonderful, ‘Will you be my bridesmaid?’ candy box, filled with gourmet candies, is both clever and unique.”

To take a more do-it-yourself approach, some brides craft candles for each bridesmaid, with customized scents. The handmade element certainly makes for a personalized keepsake.

Expressing thanks to more than just the bridesmaids has become commonplace.

Now, brides and even grooms are bestowing gifts upon parents, groomsmen, flower girls and ring bearers. Much like the bridesmaids’ gifts, thoughtful touches make all the

difference. While liquor and liquor accessories are ever popular among groomsmen, personalized ties are trendy, as well.

For the parents of the bride and groom, a treasured gift should evoke memories.

The style should reflect the traditionfilled moments of the occasion. Be sure to include a handwritten note as a personal and direct thank you to the recipient.

For any guest, Johnson Smith says a personalized ornament, with their name or a message to remember the wedding day, is an especially heartfelt present.

Bridal party gifts go beyond trinkets.

They mark a significant occasion in the lives of the happy couple that took place alongside friends and family. Gifts should be whimsical yet useable, time-honored yet distinct and, as always, intimate and unforgettable.

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SWAK PHOTOGRAPHY KIERSTEN GRANT PHOTOGRAPHY

DESIREE GARDNER PHOTOGRAPHY JUST WRIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY

DREAM GOWNS Panama City

“I knew Dream Gowns would make it a special occasion, and they did. Honestly, I didn’t even try on very many dresses and when I put the dress I chose on, I just knew. It was perfect for me, but it was completely different from what I said I would choose. Everything I said I wouldn’t pick ended up being what I went with — very simple, romantic and clean.

At a Glance ▪ BRIDAL GOWNS ▪ BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES ▪ BRIDAL ACCESSORIES

“Everyone I came in contact with was super helpful. Whether it was putting back dresses I already tried on or bringing me dresses they thought I might like, they just went out of their way. On my wedding day, I felt like a bride should. I felt beautiful.” - Haley Lewis, Panama City Beach, Florida

PHOTOS BY DESIREE GARDNER PHOTOGRAPHY, JUST WRIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY, KIERSTEN GRANT PHOTOGRAPHY AND SWAK PHOTOGRAPHY

(850) 747-1362 // ShopDreamGowns.com 619 Highway 231, Panama City, FL 32405

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Providing creative catering, mobile craft cocktails, and exceptional service to make your wedding day as truly unique as you are.

SOCI A LCAT ER I NGA N DEV EN TS.COM | (850) 228-6817 | TA L L A H A SSEE, FL

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Photo Credit : Sarah Stephens Photography

#WedAtLast

Flowers | Design | Decor Custom Events That Make A Statement & Reflect YOUR Style!

• Florida Based, Destination Ready •

850.519.2305 | AtLastFlorals.com

MAKEUP AND HAIR TANIA CRAWFORD

MAKEUP AND BRIDE HAIR TANIA CRAWFORD BRIDESMAIDS HAIR DANI BERTRAM

OUR TEAM loves styling brides for THEIR BIG DAY 36150 Emerald Coast Parkway Suite 104, Destin, FL 850.424.3935 pureandcouture.com

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Blushing, F Beautiful and Balanced Bride Ditch the diet fads and impossible workouts and aim, instead, for happiness!

by Rebecca Padgett

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irst, you need to know that you are wonderful and beautiful just as you are. Your partner put a ring on your finger because he loves every ounce of you, and every teary-eyed, smiling guest at your ceremony shares that love.

Those same people will support you in any endeavor you wish to pursue and will be your biggest advocates in helping you to achieve your goals.

A wedding is unlike any milestone you will experience in your life. You invite those who live near and far, whose friendships are close or newly rekindled, to take part in a day where all eyes and cameras are on you. As exciting and blissful as that is, it’s also, to be transparent, nerve-racking. For a day that you will remember and reflect upon, you want to feel and look your best. A momentous event is just the time to put your ambitions into literal motion.

JACOB LUND (LEFT), TORWAISTUDIO (RUNNING) AND SYDA PRODUCTIONS (YOGA) / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

The first step is to set goals and evaluate if you will be able to achieve them in realistic and healthy ways. This doesn’t mean crash diets to fit into the dress or workouts so strenuous you dread them. The overarching objective is to create a lifestyle that fulfills your wedding day wishes and is sustainable for many years of wedded bliss.

“The goal isn’t always to lose weight; it’s to be healthy and mentally stable,” said Lena Shields, Studio Manager of Pure Barre Tallahassee. “A wedding is for both of you, and you’re working to be happy and healthy together. In the grand scheme, you’re adapting your lifestyle to prolong your lives together.”

Until death do you part, your other half is your accountability partner and motivator, making it ideal to join in on the fitness journey together.

Find a workout that you both enjoy, take turns doing each other’s favorite fitness activity or pay a trainer for a couples class.

“Many times your training coach becomes your life coach because they’re someone who is unbiased and can be there to support you mentally as well as physically through this journey into your marriage,” said Matt Staver, owner and founder of Blueprint Health Studio in Destin.

At home or in the gym, you can use each other for resistance training or for partner workouts, like tossing a medicine ball back and forth. Make it even more enjoyable by turning workouts into dates. Run, hike, bike, canoe or walk together to a location where you can enjoy a healthy picnic as a reward.

“Active people tolerate stress better, suffer from less illness and enjoy the benefits of more energy and stamina,” said Kim Bibeau, owner and founder of Sweat Therapy Fitness. “These benefits can really help a relationship flourish.

Whether partners workout together or use their gym time as ‘me time,’ fitness is an important part of a self-care routine.”

If solo workouts are more your speed, fully commit. Put down the guest list, turn off the cellphone and submerge yourself fully in your workout routine. High intensity classes present the perfect way to blow off steam, long runs give you clarity and yoga calms the mind.

“Fitness classes keep your energy up and keep you focused,” said Adam Christiansen, certified personal trainer with BeachFit Studio in Seaside. “A fitness routine teaches you how to push through stressful situations and difficulties. Ultimately, it shows you respect yourself and the other person.”

All professionals in the fitness realm agree that eating healthily and relaxing is beneficial to

your overall well-being. Take time together, on a Sunday evening, to plan and prepare healthy meals for the week ahead, or join cooking classes that promote nutritious eating.

Of the most importance is having a sound mind. Amidst all the color swatches, cake tastings and seating charts, take a break and focus on the person who got you to this moment. A smile releases endorphins that trigger happiness, and kissing burns calories.

Strengthen your relationship through exercises that challenge you both.

Get a head start on your partnership, by pacing each other toward total health with a running routine. Try yoga to connect mentally, physically, spiritually and emotionally.

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ANDREW’S CATERING Tallahassee

“We decided on Andrew’s because they are the best in town. They were always on point, accommodating and attentive. Even though we only met with them in person once, we never had to worry because we trusted them that much. We talked about menu options and services that perfectly fit our wedding. They were able to accommodate my husband’s food allergies and create a menu that pleased both our vegetarian and meat-eating friends.

At a Glance ▪ INDOOR VENUE ▪ OUTDOOR VENUE ▪ CATERING ▪ PLANNING AND COORDINATION ▪ BARTENDING SERVICES ▪ LINEN RENTALS

“Everyone bragged about and complimented the food. There was a wide variety and the tenderloin was a hit, especially with my husband. The food might have even been the highlight of the reception!”

- Jacqueline Blackburn, Tallahassee, Florida PHOTOS BY WOODLAND FIELDS PHOTOGRAPHY

(850) 645-9255 // AndrewsDowntown.com 229 S. Adams St., Tallahassee, FL 32301

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FISHER’S FLOWERS AND EVENTS Santa Rosa Beach

“Fisher’s Flowers’ versatility was especially important to us since we had three big events to plan: an Indian ceremony and reception, a rehearsal dinner/beach bonfire and a traditional Western ceremony and reception.

“Grove with Fisher’s is an extremely kind, creative, down-to-earth and hardworking designer.

She’s not simply a florist — she works to understand the personalities of the bride and groom, plus their families, to make sure the event’s design feels unique and true to them. Fisher’s understood the combination we wanted — warm, festive and elegant. Guests loved the dance floor, the beautiful beach and the joyful spirit. More than a year later, our friends continue to rave about how wonderful each of our events was.” - Meera Rennicke, New York, New York PHOTOS BY HARDY KLAHOLD

At a Glance ▪ FLORAL SERVICES ▪ RENTAL SERVICES ▪ DECORATING SERVICES ▪ EVENT DESIGN

(850) 622-0056 // FishersFlowersAndEvents.com 416 S. Co. Highway 393, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459

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making it happen

fishersflowersandevents.com . 850.622.0056 416 South County HWY 393 • Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459 • Adam and Grove Fisher •

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Wedding Planning for the Digital Age Apps that make it easier to get to iDo

by Maria Knight

ONEINCHPUNCH / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

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rom trying on dresses until you find “the one” to designing invitations that will adorn a fridge delightfully, there are a million things a bride has to keep track of when planning her wedding. With today’s modern means, planning could not be easier or more accessible. Apps for wedding planning are helping brides stay organized, in touch and up-to-date, all with the touch of a button.

With everything brides have to do and remember, it’s easy to forget a thing or two along the way. WeddingHappy is an app that tracks the tasks you have completed, the tasks you still need to do, your vendor details and how long you have until your wedding. Not only can you track details like sending your save-the-date notices, you can also keep a close eye on your expenses and payments so you and your fiancé can stick to your budget. This free app makes it easy to see how the little things are adding up to create the big picture.

If you’re looking for an app with a social side that provides opportunities to engage with your guests and wedding party, Appy Couple is a savvy option. The photo gallery

feature allows guests to easily snap and post pictures, all of which are saved directly to your gallery. Guests can mingle with each other via the app with instant messaging.

Your shyer guests will thank you later. And who knows? Your wedding could result in romance for another happy couple.

To make the wedding gift process easier on you and your guests, Zola has an online registry that exhibits simplicity at its finest. This app lets you combine multiple brands to your registry, choose from a variety of “couple experiences” and build cash funds for your future plans, all in one account. If it turns out you don’t actually need that set of mallard duck dishware from your uncle in Kentucky, Zola gives you the option to swap gifts or convert them into credit.

Having trouble finding your dream dress?

Follow local bridal stores on Instagram as they often feature the latest dress trends. If you’re open minded or don’t have a particular style in mind, this is the best way to learn what you may want. Dream Gowns has an excellent selection that is consistently updated on their Instagram account.

Our very own, Northwest Florida Weddings website, social media accounts and monthly newsletter are on-trend with bridal movements throughout the nation while providing localization through vendors, venues and services.

Whiles these apps and websites are definite time-savers, they can’t do it all. As John Gandy from John Gandy Events explains, there’s a human element to wedding planning that you can’t get online. “Sending invitations virtually is great if all of your guests are young and always online,” Gandy says. “Otherwise, you should stick with traditional mail.”

Some tasks are best completed in person for the sake of the ceremony, such as selecting vendors and tasting cake samples. Some of your best visual sources are magazines, and your best audible sources are talking with brides who have already taken their walk down the aisle. For decades, brides have successfully planned beautiful weddings; and just think — you are planning in the best-equipped decade yet. It’s a great time to be a bride!

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JOHN GANDY EVENTS Tallahassee

“I’m a wedding photographer so I had previous experience working with John Gandy and watching him make things gorgeous. His team knows how to make the day completely flawless.

He walked me through his warehouse, but I told him that I had seen what he could do and I trusted him. It turned out absolutely perfect. An elegant, relaxed dinner party with a lot of candles, metallic and greenery.

“Since my husband and I found each other later in life, we don’t take for granted what got each other to this point. We are soul mates. My three-year-old daughter was wrapped up in my veil, walking beside me up the aisle to my best friend. It was so loving and special. There were a lot of happy tears.” - Dawn Fifer, Tallahassee, Florida PHOTOS BY WOODLAND FIELDS PHOTOGRAPHY

At a Glance ▪ PLANNING AND COORDINATION ▪ RENTAL SERVICES ▪ DECORATING SERVICES ▪ DESIGN AND DÉCOR INSTALLATIONS ▪ DÉCOR RENTALS ▪ PRODUCTION/EVENT DESIGN ▪ LINEN RENTALS

(850) 570-5999 // JohnGandyEvents.com 3463 Garber Drive, Tallahassee, FL 32303

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JOHN GANDY EVENTS Tallahassee

“It was a no brainer to use John Gandy. I had seen some of his work and had a lot of friends that had used him. I knew from the get-go that I would choose his services because of his reputation for quality. I never had a clear-cut vision of what I wanted, but I did know I wanted a lot of natural colors with white and champagne tones. He helped me describe my vision and made it come to life. He called it Southern elegance, which was perfect.

At a Glance ▪ PLANNING AND COORDINATION ▪ RENTAL SERVICES ▪ DECORATING SERVICES ▪ DESIGN AND DÉCOR INSTALLATIONS ▪ DÉCOR RENTALS ▪ PRODUCTION/EVENT DESIGN ▪ LINEN RENTALS

“Our special moment was surrounded by giant chandeliers hanging from oak trees as we had our first dance. That was our time to ourselves to do what we do best.” - Madeleine Friddle, Milton, Florida PHOTOS BY WOODLAND FIELDS PHOTOGRAPHY

(850) 570-5999 // JohnGandyEvents.com 3463 Garber Drive, Tallahassee, FL 32303

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SUNSHINE SHUTTLE & LIMOUSINE Santa Rosa Beach

At a Glance ▪ T RANSPORTATION

“There were so many reasons we chose Sunshine Shuttles. They actually did the whole weekend. They started with the airport pickup of wedding guests all the way from the rehearsal dinner to the wedding night. It was a chance to have everyone together, so we actually did larger buses so everyone could spend time with one another.

“Donovan was one of my favorite drivers. He’s very witty and funny. He had water and to-go food ready for us in the vintage Rolls Royce and made everything easy. I can’t say enough great things about Donovan and Sunshine Shuttles. They went above and beyond to make it all perfect.” - Sara Shipp, Nashville, Tennessee PHOTOS BY DEAR WESLEYANN PHOTOGRAPHY

(850) 650-6333 // SunshineShuttle.com 323 Lynn Drive, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459

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making it happen RUSSELL RAINEY, DMD Say, “I Do” to the perfect smile. Dr. Russell B. Rainey and his caring team provide Tallahassee’s most exceptional dental experience.

Dr. Rainey’s practice provides a wide range of services including anxiety-free, cosmetic and restorative dentistry. Whether it is your big day or the big day of a loved one, let Dr. Rainey’s team give you a smile to be proud of.

COSMETIC DENTISTRY

(850) 385-3700 DrRainey.com 221 E. 7th Ave. Tallahassee, FL 32303

HAMPTON INN AND SUITES TALLAHASSEE Convenience and comfort is key when planning a wedding stay, whether it is for the happy couple or the guests. Hampton Inn and Suites is centrally located just off of I-10 in Tallahassee making it an easy drive to nearby wedding venues and downtown. The luxuriously decorated hotel features cozy beds, an outdoor pool, fitness room, a welcoming staff and ultimate comfort for a wedding weekend.

HOTEL

(850) 574-4900 TallahasseeI10ThomasvilleRdSuites.HamptonInn.com 3388 Lonnbladh Road Tallahassee, FL 32308

COTON COLORS Conveniently positioned in Tallahassee’s Market District, and with simple online registry access, Coton Colors is the perfect stop for celebrating blushing brides. Make every moment even happier from your engagement to your wedding day with Coton Colors — from the “Will You Be My Bridesmaid?” asks to hostess gifts and presents for future mother-in-laws.

BRIDAL GIF TS AND REGISTRY

(850) 668-0149 coton-colors.com 1355 Market St. Tallahassee, FL 32312

THE BLUES FACTOR BAND The award-winning Blues Factor Band is a group of elite musicians that provide professional entertainment for weddings, private events and corporate functions. Known for their incredibly polished, high-energy shows, these experienced and versatile musicians are available to pack the dance floor at your wedding. Comprehensive entertainment packages are available at surprisingly affordable prices that include the wedding ceremony, cocktail hour, professional MC/DJ services and videography.

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(904) 349-8307 thebluesfactorband.com 2132 Sand Dune Court Tallahassee, FL 32308

TALLAHASSEE AUTOMOBILE MUSEUM – BANQUET ROOMS The Tallahassee Automobile Museum is a community treasure that offers up history and engaging experiences. For a reception or ceremony that’s outside of the box, the museum is equipped with a variety of banquet rooms ranging in size and style in order to fulfill the needs of your wedding. Your own caterer and decorations are welcome, while facilities, tables and chairs are on-site to drive your wedding day to blissfulness.

VENUE

(850) 942-0137 TACM.com 6800 Mahan Drive Tallahassee, FL 32308

OPPENHEIM SIGNATURE SMILES THOMAS E. OPPENHEIM, DMD, FAACD

You are sure to be smiling on your wedding day, and photographs will capture that smile as a memory for years to come. Dr. Oppenheim specializes in smile designs that are known for their strikingly natural appearance and lasting beauty. His promise is to deliver cosmetic and restorative excellence, which results in a signature smile for each client.

AMY RILEY PHOTOGRAPHY

COSMETIC DENTISTRY

(229) 226-1631 SignatureSmiles.com 207 E. Jackson St. Thomasville, Georgia 31792

EMERALD COAST AUDIO VISUAL SOLUTIONS Seaside

Flawless audio and eye-catching visual services will ensure that your guests hear and see the magic of your most special day. Emerald Coast Audio Visual Solutions employs only the most competent technicians and consultants to advise you on the most effective and cost efficient options for your venue whether it be indoors or outdoors. They have years of experience in providing exceptional services to weddings, leaving you well prepared and stress free on your dreamed about day. The sound will be as clear as your crystal glasses and the spotlights will be on you.

PHOTOS BY AMY RILEY PHOTOGRAPHY AND COURTESY OF EMERALD COAST AUDIO VISUAL SOLUTIONS

At a Glance ▪ INDOOR WEDDING AUDIO/VISUAL ▪ OUTDOOR WEDDING AUDIO/VISUAL ▪ CREATIVE LIGHTING ▪ DANCE FLOOR RENTALS ▪ VIDEOGRAPHY

(850) 630-3032 // EmeraldCoastAV.com Multiple Locations NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS 2017

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making it happen 850 EVENT RENTALS 850 Event Rentals knows that the beauty of an event is all in the details, whether it be a grand gathering hall or an intimate ceremony.

Offering a comprehensive inventory of tents, chairs, arbors, tables, linens, lighting, décor and lounge furniture, 850 Events is wellequipped to create your envisioned wedding day. If you’re warm on the idea of a beachside wedding, they provide beach bonfire services along the Emerald Coast.

E V E N T R E N TA L S

(850) 399-1660 850eventrentals.com Santa Rosa Beach, FL

BELLAGIO NAIL & DAY SPA Escape stress into a world of total comfort, relaxation and rejuvenation.

Treat yourself to a luxurious experience, pick the perfect polish for your tips and toes and indulge in refreshments from the spa’s fully stocked bar. Our friendly and professional staff will pamper and perfect all of your beauty needs. Kick off the bachelorette party or bridal shower with our private room complete with music, drinks and complete relaxation.

B E A U T Y & S PA

(850) 912-4488 BellagioDaySpaPensacola.com 5010 Bayou Blvd., Suite 103 Pensacola, FL 32503

HILTON GARDEN INN TALLAHASSEE The Hilton Garden Inn Tallahassee welcomes you and your guests to their hotel for your wedding celebration. Our desirable location right off of I-10 and nearby local attractions, allows you to make the most of your time in town. We offer many amenities to create a “home away from home” atmosphere guaranteeing complete comfort. In addition to reserving a block of rooms for you, we feature a banquet room ideal for an intimate rehearsal dinner of up to 48 guests.

H O T E L A C C O M M O D AT I O N S

(850) 385-3553 Tallahassee.StayHGI.com 3333 Thomasville Road Tallahassee, FL 32308

PAUL JOHNSON PHOTOGRAPHY

SANDESTIN GOLF AND BEACH RESORT Make memories to cherish for a lifetime at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort. Offering the largest selection of luxurious venues on Northwest Florida’s Emerald Coast, Sandestin is the perfect backdrop for your special day. From sugary white sand beaches and lush green lawns to elegant stately ballrooms and serene bayfront terraces, Sandestin will make your wedding all you dreamed of and more.

VENUE

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(866) 748-7863 sandestin.com/flwed 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy W. Miramar Beach, FL 32550

MY FAVORITE THINGS When your guests first see the invitation to the most special day of your life, you can be certain that they will give it more than a passing glance. Be sure to choose an invitation that reflects your taste and style. Let My Favorite Things be your personal stationer. Their trained consultants can assist with all your etiquette questions while helping to create an invitation that will perfectly set the mood and tone of your wedding.

S TAT I O N E R Y & R E G I S T R Y

(850) 681-2824 ShopMFT.com 1410 Market St., C3 Tallahassee, FL 32312

TOM & THE CATS Tom & the Cats are wedding reception legends that get the party going.

With catchy dance music and a guaranteed night to remember, no matter the theme of your wedding Tom & the Cats has the music to match. A 2015 Best of Tallahassee winner for Best Local Band, their smooth vocals and dynamic instrumentals captivate guests — leaving them no choice but to make their way to the dance floor. The band’s motto says it all, “It ain’t nothing but a party, baby!”

M U S I C & E N T E R TA I N M E N T

(850) 566-3018 TomAndTheCats.net richardbevis@embarqmail.com

WEBER & WEEKLEY BRIDES, BEAUTY & BLING Accomplished in both traditional and airbrush makeup, Melody Weber and Lorie Weekley are professional makeup artists and licensed estheticians. Their passion is helping brides capture the glow of their individuality by personally customizing their skincare and makeup preferences. From their hands and into their beloved’s arms, each bride shines with confidence as they joyfully walk down the aisle feeling relaxed and radiant.

B E A U T Y & S PA

(850) 764-6629 WeberAndWeekley.com 4305 Spanish Trail Pensacola, FL 32504

CG PHOTOGRAPHY

A GRANDE OCCASION WEDDING ARTISTRY A Grande Occasion Wedding Artistry is the wedding team of The Posh Daisy Salon Spa, which offers on-location and in-salon services to make your day perfect. As part of an award-winning salon, this team takes pride in providing stunning hair and makeup services all along the Florida Panhandle. Brides and their bridal parties can rejuvenate with a day of relaxation including a fresh manicure or pedicure, beauty boost facial or deep conditioning hot oil scalp treatment. Let your inner beauty blossom!

S A L O N & S PA

(850) 533-0321 ThePoshDaisy.com 128 Eglin Parkway SE Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548

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making it happen HILTON SANDESTIN BEACH GOLF RESORT & SPA Kissed by the warm, salty breezes of the Gulf, Hilton Sandestin Beach is the perfect choice for the couple in search of a timeless beach ceremony and an overall experience highlighted by unprecedented customer service on the beautiful Emerald Coast. Wedding guests will adore this spot for its understated glamour and gorgeous amenities. This resort can deliver it all, from pre-wedding rituals to post-nuptial relaxation. For the one moment when you say,“I do” there is only one Hilton Sandestin Beach.

RESORT & VENUE

(850) 267-9500 HiltonSandestinBeach.com 4000 S. Sandestin Blvd.

Miramar Beach, FL 32550

SERENITY BY THE SEA SPA Be sure to include a visit to Serenity by the sea Spa when planning your wedding weekend activities. The full-service spa at Hilton Sandestin Beach is the perfect place to relax away those pre-wedding jitters with a menu of massage, facial and body treatments. The entire wedding party may enjoy a spa-style bridesmaid’s luncheon in the lounge while beautifying together with hair services, manicures and pedicures in the spa’s adjoining salons.

B E A U T Y & S PA

(850) 622-9595 SerenitybytheseaSpa.com 4000 S. Sandestin Blvd.

Miramar Beach, FL 32550

BALLROOM AT THE BEACH With 60,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor venues Hilton Sandestin Beach presents a plethora of spots for your ceremony, reception and various wedding gatherings. All of the ballrooms feature an open-ceiling concept that can be transformed into a splendid backdrop for nuptials. If the beach is your ideal venue, three boardwalks lead down to sugar white sands and three decks overlook the emerald green waters lending to picturesque scenery.

RESORT & VENUE

(877) 705-6641 HiltonSandestinBeach.com 4000 S. Sandestin Blvd.

Miramar Beach, FL 32550

SEAGAR’S PRIME STEAKS & SEAFOOD When only the best will do, treat your guests to an event at Seagar’s, the only AAA-Four Diamond-rated steakhouse on the Emerald Coast. Private rooms are available for groups of all sizes, making the New York-style steakhouse perfect for everything from small family gatherings to elegant rehearsal dinners. Chef Dan Vargo will create a menu to suit your style, featuring Prime beef and freshfrom-the-Gulf seafood. Seagar’s also features the largest wine list on the coast, with more than 600 labels to choose from.

R E S TA U R A N T & C AT E R I N G

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(850) 622-1500 Seagars.com 4000 S. Sandestin Blvd.

Miramar Beach, FL 32550

SAY

“I Do”

TO A BRIGHT NEW SMILE.

FOR TEETH WHITENING AND OTHER DENTAL SERVICES CALL TODAY. ASK FOR YOUR COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION. 850.385.3700 | 221 E. 7TH AVE | DRRAINEY.COM

@YOUR WEDDING SHOWER AND REHEARSAL DINNER Call (850) 999-1696 to book today.

/TheBluHalo

TheBluHalo.com

3431 Bannerman Road, #102, Tallahassee, FL NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS 2017

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PURE7 STUDIOS

honeymoon destinations

Vacation: all I ever wanted!

The moment you’ve both been waiting for arrives after the vows have been said and the bouquet has been thrown. Unwind and unplug in Northwest Florida with sensational views, romantic sunsets, adventuresome attractions and total tranquility.

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honeymoon destinations

Bridal Bon Voyage Honeymoon essentials for the coast

A

offices, suggests bringing Mr.- and Mrs.themed travel mugs or cute drinkware to enjoy some sunny sips on the beach.

Aside from packing the obvious necessities, like your swimsuit, a cover-up and sunscreen, think outside of the box a little.

Pack a beach blanket to take on picnics or for those dreamy nights of Gulf-side stargazing.

Stretching out for a lazy day on the sand or at the pool is the perfect time to break out a book you’ve been dying to read or listen to some relaxing music, so pack some reading material and your headphones. Even newlyweds need a little downtime from gazing into each other’s eyes.

This is a coastal vacation, so dress the part.

Bring beach bags, hats, sunglasses and flipflops to keep you looking cool and breezy in your post-wedding glow. Plan to celebrate at least once in high style by having a dressy date. Bring cocktail-worthy attire, and you’ll be prepared for any dress code.

Keep a record to look back on, and remember even the details that, at the time,

may seem insignificant. Pack a cute honeymoon journal and a pen to document the day’s adventures. Flip through the pages and relive it a year later.

Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort Marketing Manager Brooke Scholl has a few suggestions of her own for honeymooners who head to the coast: “Bring along a camera to capture all of your special memories at the beach and anywhere fun you go together.”

The proper footwear, she explains, can really make or break your day; so be sure to have the right shoes — not only flip-flops for the beach or at the pool, but also shoes that are comfortable enough to wear on sightseeing excursions, leisurely strolls or bike rides.

If you’re staying at a resort, Scholl advises checking their amenities to see what may be available to you as their special guests.

Although it’s not quite “packable,” remember to bring an adventurous mindset, too. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and it’s the ideal time to try new things and to have exciting adventures together.

AMY RILEY PHOTOGRAPHY

h, the honeymoon. It’s the perfect start to your new life together: a time to relax after all the stresses of the big day, to connect in a new place and make memories that you’ll cherish long after the dress is packed away and the photos have been looked at hundreds of times.

No matter how picture-perfect the locale may be, if you haven’t packed properly, those beautiful memories can get a little smudged by the headaches that result from being ill prepared. Make sure that your honeymoon is one you’ll remember for all the right reasons by taking a few tips from experts.

Some of the most popular honeymoon getaways chart a course for the coast, where postcard-worthy beaches await and sunlit skies make everything shine a little brighter.

The only worry you should have is applying enough sunscreen.

You’re on your honeymoon, so celebrate as often as you can, and pour on the cocktails! Sarah Ralph, Marketing Manager at ResortQuest’s Northwest Florida Region

by Liesel Schmidt

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Simply Inspiring.

Distinctly Southern.

BEACH

WEDDINGS

3 0 A / S O U T H WA L T O N , N O R T H W E S T F L O R I D A

Forever Starts Here...

When you choose St. Joe Club & Resorts for your wedding, rehearsal dinner or anniversary, it will be more than just the scenery that will inspire you. Our team of Wedding Experts will make your event unforgettable. Enjoy upscale accommodations, exceptional amenities and the comforts of southern hospitality—the ultimate wedding experience.

WaterColor® Inn | The Pearl Hotel | 30A Vacation Rentals 25 Miles West of the Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport

sjcrweddings.com | 1.850.231.7773NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS 2017

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RESORTQUEST BY WYNDHAM VACATION RENTALS | PANAMA CITY BEACH HONEYMOON DESTINATION Panama City Beach

At a Glance ▪▪ HONEYMOON DESTINATIONS ▪▪ HOME RENTALS ▪▪ CONDOMINIUM RENTALS

When describing the quintessential honeymoon, phrases such as “breathtaking beaches” and “endless activities” are likely at the top of your list. Panama City Beach is the ideal oasis to celebrate your wedding and begin your journey as a couple. With sugar-white sand to sunbathe on, paddleboards and jet skis to rent and beach bonfires to snuggle up by, Panama City Beach blends romance and adventure.

ResortQuest offers professionally managed vacation rental homes and condominiums down the Panama City Beach coastline, a destination dream come true.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF RESORTQUEST

(888) 412-6408 // PCBHoneymoon.com 546 Mary Esther Cutoff NW, Suite 3, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548

850 422 0071

Your Happier Ever After... Our Pleasure

Start your ever after with the unique style and expertise this day truly deserves.

Relax at our poolside bar, savor delicious flavors at Juicy Blue and sleep soundly in one of our luxurious, Four Comfort beds™.

-Free parking -Free Wi-Fi -Fitness Center

-Free shuttle service to downtown, all campuses and airport

-Heated pool -Breakfast, lunch and dinner served daily

-7,000 sq. ft. of meeting space -Full renovation in 2012

Four Points by Sheraton Tallahassee Downtown | www.FourPointsTallahasseeDowntown.com 316 West Tennessee Street, Tallahassee Fl 32301

The Last Word

We focused on the big four — Bay, Escambia, Leon and Okaloosa counties — to see what the money spent on economic development was doing to bring more jobs to those communities. But we had a hard time putting our arms around the issue. Perhaps the most important thing we learned about all EDOs, big and small, is that every county interprets job creation in its own way, that there is often little or no accountability and in some cases there is no transparency in the process, even when taxpayer dollars are being spent.

While several local EDOs have worked to shine a brighter light on what they’re doing since then, there remains no standardized method to determine who is doing what, how they’re spending their money and what the final impact is on the local economy.

In recent months, the question of accountability has focused attention on two of the state’s public/private partnerships — Visit Florida, responsible for promoting state tourism, and Enterprise Florida, established to promote economic development throughout the state.

Visit Florida, in December, came under fire for paying $1 million in a 2015 secret deal with Miami rapper Pitbull for a tourism marketing campaign. (The information was only revealed after House Speaker Richard Corcoran filed a lawsuit to compel Pitbull’s company to provide the information.) Calling for more transparency in the agency’s expenditures — and outcomes — Gov. Rick Scott declared, and rightfully so, that “taxpayers have a right to know how their money is spent.” No argument there.

The spending at Enterprise Florida, which is also primarily funded with taxpayer dollars, has also been called into question by state House leaders who want to know where the money is going and how effective the state’s economic incentive program has been. In 2016, the Legislature rejected Scott’s appeal to pour $250 million into economic incentive programs. This year, Scott has pushed again for more incentive dollars.

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State law requires the Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability (OPPAGA) to do regular audits of the state’s economic development programs. In its most recent report issued in January, the agency reviewed eight incentive programs that provided tax credits, tax refunds and cash. Projects in effect between the state fiscal years of 2012-2013 and 2014-2015 that had received cumulative incentives ranging from $100,000 to over $100 million covered 36 counties in the state.

But of those 36, only eight were located in the 18 counties of the 850 region.

Walton, Washington and Bay counties each received less than 100,000. Santa Rosa and Madison counties received between $100,000 and $1 million. For Escambia, Jackson and Leon counties, the amount was between $1 million and $10 million.

While the 232 projects using state incentives have cumulatively created 33,627 jobs since their inception — and 13,327 during the three-year review period, the audit found that “the total number of confirmed jobs was less than the number of committed jobs for every incentive program.”

The number of confirmed new jobs ranged from five in Clay County to 7,875 in Duval County. And in most cases, the confirmed capital commitment made by the individual companies was less than what had been promised.

The audit contains a wealth of information on the state programs, including which counties benefit the most (hint: NOT Northwest Florida), how many projects have been discontinued and how many jobs were created over a three-year period in the individual counties. In Northwest Florida’s eight participating counties, 1,986 jobs were created — 72 percent of them in Escambia and Jackson counties alone.

It’s important for taxpayers to know how and where their money is being spent. The OPPAGA report is interesting, although it would be a far better tool for the people to use if it was more explicit in what companies/businesses are getting state aid. Still, it serves as a guide for local economic development offices to regularly report all (state, local, private) expenditures, specific projects and jobs created to their constituencies — local elected officials and the public.

KAY MEYER

Two years ago, in April 2015, our cover story gave readers a closer look at the world of economic development within the 850 region.

We determined who was responsible for economic development and how successful they had been at the job.

LINDA KLEINDIENST, EDITOR lkleindienst@rowlandpublishing.com

Keep them safe!

Make sure your family is up to date on their immunizations.

Find schedules and FAQs on our online Healthwise® Knowledgebase.

SM

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2017.02.002

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