850 Business Magazine- April/May 2015

LONG LIVE LOCAL ADVOCATES Representing more than 20,000 physicians, the Florida Medical Association (FMA) knows the importance of being an advocate for the people they serve as they work to promote public health, ensure the highest standards of medical practice, and enhance the quality of healthcare for patients.

“The individualized So when it came to banking, they wanted“The First Commerce loan member service a partner who was equally committed to being their financial advocate. That’s why process was highly organized, from our banker is they chose First Commerce. efficient and personable. remarkable.”

They came to my office to NOW THAT’S TIMOTHY J. STAPLETON, make it easy on me.”

LOCAL STRONG

FirstCommerceCU.org/Business 850.410.3559 | 1.800.533.5772 Federally insured by NCUA

EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT/CEO, FLORIDA MEDICAL ASSOCIATION

ENTERPRISE IT FOR THE SMB • Means Increased Mobility (your freedom to work anywhere) • Means Increased Security (your watchdog) • Means Business Continuity (your backup plan) • Means Enterprise IT (your ability to scale) • Means Lower IT Costs (your bottom line)

DISASTER RECOVERY & BUSINESS CONTINUITY • Proven/Tested DR Solution • Enterprise level DR Solution for the SMB you can afford • Business continuity means never losing access to critical business functions no matter the circumstances

Do you have a plan?

WORK ON. Coaxis specializes in hosting businesses in compliant heavy markets: legal, financial, medical, any industry requiring high level security. The privately owned and operated Tier 3 data center is fully compliant with:

HIPAA • SOC • GLBA Sarbanes-Oxley • CJIS • PCI DSS Let us take care of all your IT management, so you can take care of business.

1816 Old St. Augustine Rd. | Tallahassee, FL 32301 | 850-391-1022 | coaxis-asp.net 850 Business Magazine

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

3

We’ve built the largest and most extensive network of fiber optics this part of the country has ever seen, allowing businesses to connect with the world at record speeds. With infrastructure like this, the way you work will never be the same, and you’ll go from “competing in the field” to dominating.

We’re opening the future for businesses along the Gulf Coast. Join us at slfiber.com/tallahassee

4

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

850businessmagazine.com

850 Magazine April – May 2015

IN THIS ISSUE

LIFE AFTER SERVICE Thousands of veterans who have fought in Iraq and Afghanistan or served elsewhere in the world are leaving the military and looking for jobs.

850 FEATURES eveloping Our Economy 32 DMore jobs. Higher salaries. Every county in

Northwest Florida is looking for businesses that will provide both. Each of the region’s counties has an economic development organization charged with that mission, but how each performs its job varies.

850 takes a look at some of the region’s EDOs and what they are doing to boost the local economy. By Linda Kleindienst

Arming Veterans for Jobs 42 Northwest Florida is home to a large number of retiring veterans who are looking to get into the job market — and there are programs established in the region to help them find employment. The jobless rate among Florida veterans is at its lowest point since 2010, especially for post-9/11 vets. And federal labor statistics show that veterans are entering employment at higher rates and for generally higher wages than their nonveteran counterparts. By Tony Bridges

On the Cover: A look at the jobs the big four counties of Northwest Florida have brought home in the past five years.

Illustration by Rebecca Sumerall

850 Business Magazine

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

5

850 Magazine April – May 2015

ILLUSTRATION BY REBECCA SUMERALL (16) AND PHOTO BY MATT BURKE (138)

IN THIS ISSUE

138 16

Corridors

MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES

EMERALD COAST

16 Instead of paying for full-time offices with the associated overhead, more entrepreneurs are renting a desk for a fraction of the cost.

HUMAN ELEMENT

In This Issue 10 14 157 162

Departments

From the Publisher News and Numbers Sound Bytes The Last Word from the Editor

20 Want to encourage a stronger teamwork attitude in your employees? No better way than to let them climb 40 feet in the air.

CREATING RESULTS 26 Despite the growing influence of the Internet in our daily lives, the telephone is still the primary method of communication.

Special Section DEAL ESTATE

135 What’s trending, what’s selling and what’s hot to buy in the 850?

Find out here.

BOTTOM LINE 28 How do you budget for future growth?

Be intimately acquainted with your revenue stream and expenses. More importantly, pay attention to how often the money comes in and out, and in what volume.

GUEST COLUMN 30 Freshman U.S. Rep Gwen Graham of Tallahassee reflects on her first few months in office and hopes for her Northwest Florida district.

568 ways to wow your guests

From Coast to City to Country, the top trenDs in venues, Flowers, photogs, gowns, FooD anD more!

+

True Colors: Gowns Going Way Off White

6

|

138 Called a one-of-a-kind, Frank Patti runs Pensacola-based Joe Patti’s Seafood Company, an establishment that made a name and living for his family dating back to the 1930s.

BAY

142 It was in the talking stages for years but is now finally taking shape.

The old Bay County airport in Panama City is being transformed into a multiuse development called SweetBay.

CAPITAL

146 Dating from 1835, Boyd Family Farms is a large-scale and diversified farming operation in Jefferson County that has managed to survive and thrive through five generations of the BoydFinlayson Family.

I-10

152 Located in the small town of Milton is The Ropella Group, a leading executive search and consulting company that specializes in the chemical, technical and energy industries.

The

Northwest Florida Bride’s Guide to Everything

Come AND Get It, Y’All! infusing your menu with some southern hospitality

10

essential rules from Etiquette Experts

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

Sponsored Report

49 NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS 2015

Whether you’re thinking of saying “I do” in the city, in the country or on the coast, we have 84 pages of beautiful photos to provide inspiration.

850businessmagazine.com

ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY IS: Fiber optic data that doesn’t slow you down C SPIRE BUSINESS SOLUTIONS CONNECTS YOUR BUSINESS. • Guaranteed speeds up to 100x faster than your current connection.

• Synchronous transfer rates for sending and receiving data.

• Reliable connections even during major weather events.

CLOUD

SERVICES

Get Advanced Technology Now.

Advanced Technology. Personal Service.

1.855.212.7271 | cspirebusiness.com 850 Business Magazine

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

7

April – May 2015

850 THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE OF NORTHWEST FLORIDA

Vol. 7, No. 4

PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER BRIAN E. ROWLAND

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR OF EDITORIAL SERVICES Linda Kleindienst SENIOR STAFF WRITER Jason Dehart STAFF WRITER Chay D. Baxley CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Lazaro Aleman, Laura Bradley, Tony Bridges, Wendy O. Dixon, Gwen Graham, Jamie Nichols, Rebecca Padgett, Ashley Kahn Salley EDITORIAL INTERNS Shelby Bouck, Leanne Castro, Kristopher Greenwood, Ellen Pribil PRODUCTION SPECIALIST Melinda Lanigan COPY EDITOR Barry Ray

Greater Pensacola Chamber Small Businesses, Big Jobs More than 1,100+ Local Businesses Yearly Networking Events Small Business Advocacy PensacolaChamber.com 850.438.4081

When it’s time to sell the business... “ S E L L I N G B U S I N E S S E S I S O U R B U S I N E S S”

Mike Goleno has specialized in selling NW Florida businesses since 1994 with over 250 businesses sold.

Confidentiality is always a priority.

Contact Mike: 850.864.2727

Mike Goleno, Broker Certified Business Intermediary phone: 850.864.2727 email: broker@bizbro.com 201-E Miracle Strip Pkwy, SE | Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548 Member Sunbelt Business Brokers worldwide broker network.

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

MARKETING, SALES & EVENTS DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING McKenzie Burleigh DIRECTOR OF NEW BUSINESS Daniel Parisi AD SERVICES COORDINATOR Lisa Sostre ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Bess Grasswick, Darla Harrison, Tanya Heath, Lori Magee, Tracy Mulligan, Rhonda Murray, Linda Powell, Paula Sconiers, Chuck Simpson, Alice Watts SALES AND MARKETING ASSISTANT Christie Green EVENTS AND SPECIAL PROJECTS COORDINATOR Leigha Inman OPERATIONS CORPORATE CLIENT LIASON Sara Goldfarb STAFF ACCOUNTANT Josh Faulds ACCOUNTING ASSISTANT Tabby Hamilton ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Caryn Nelson RECEPTIONIST Lisa Snell

DIGITAL SERVICES DIGITAL SERVICES MANAGER Carlin Trammel DIGITAL SERVICES COORDINATORS Jennifer Ireland, Rebecca Padgett DIGITAL SERVICES PRODUCER Chelsea Moore 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 in Tallahassee, Destin and Pensacola and in Books-A-Million in Tallahassee, Destin, Ft. Walton Beach, Pensacola and Panama City and at our Tallahassee office.

CONFIDENTIAL EXPERIENCED PROFESSIONAL

8

CREATIVE CREATIVE DIRECTOR Lawrence Davidson PRODUCTION MANAGER/NETWORK ADMINISTRATOR Daniel Vitter SENIOR ART DIRECTOR Saige Roberts ART DIRECTOR Jennifer Ekrut PUBLICATION DESIGNERS Shruti Shah, Rebecca Sumerall ADVERTISING DESIGNERS Jillian Fry, Amanda Hartsfield STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Matt Burke CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Dave Barfield, Chay D. Baxley, Kellie Gerbers, Scott Holstein, Bill Lax, Kay Meyer

|

850businessmagazine.com

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 2015 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.

B

E STA

R

LU

up to

Cre di t

O N US

$10,000

$10,000

8.2%

14.99%

Monthly Payment

$204.64

$300.003

Years until payoff

5 years!

17 years4

Debt Amount APR1

Stu d e n

Credit Card company

rd Ca re

CAMPUS USA CU

850 Business Magazine

|

Re t a il S to

an o tL

B

cash

Per so n an Lo al

$200

rd a C

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

9

From the Publisher

Yes, We Do Pay It Forward

10

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

850businessmagazine.com

celebrated its 100th anniversary. That is certainly a tremendous milestone, especially when considering the difficult time the newspaper industry is experiencing. This newspaper, and other college newspapers, has been a real training platform for a wide variety of students before they enter the real world.

While the local daily newspaper reported on the milestone, it only told part of the story, partly because the story was focused on the successful and public careers of two of its own longtime reporters.

So, that being said, I would like to personally acknowledge the many individuals who work behind the curtain to make a newspaper run — people whose hard work was mostly ignored in that story. I’m talking about the graphic artists, the administrative staff who keep everyone on track and accountable and the advertising sales representatives who are on the front lines every day, rain or shine, carrying the message of why the newspaper deserves the investment of advertising dollars. Not only do the sales reps go out and find the advertisers, they often have to compel advertisers to pay their bills so that the newspaper can continue to operate and the reps themselves can make a living by earning their commissions. It is a tough job.

So, let us never forget the people behind the curtain. After all, it’s those ad dollars that helped make it possible for FSU’s student publication to reach its 100th birthday. And those ad dollars at every publication help provide the platform for the editorial board and journalists to have their say, opening the pages that the writers need to record our history and express their personal opinions.

I would like to commend our editor, Linda Kleindienst, for such an excellent job in reporting our cover story on the performance of our regional economic development organizations. You will read an excellent factual story that hopefully supports the position that we need a better method to substantiate the performance and job reporting of these agencies.

In this issue we are creating a performance baseline for 850 to return to each spring with a report on what was accomplished the previous year. I am sure this story will have our two phones ringing — and render feedback that will lead to additional stories on this subject.

BRIAN ROWLAND browland@rowlandpublishing.com

PHOTO BY SCOTT HOLSTEIN

I was recently sitting at a meeting with a group of people, many of whom I didn’t personally know, who represented a cross section of our community. When it was brought to their attention that I worked with Tallahassee Magazine, one of the individuals said in a caustic tone, “Oh, you have that elitist magazine for rich people. You guys do nothing for the community.”

With regard to the comment about Tallahassee Magazine being elitist, I can only assume the individual does not read it — or any city magazine — and spoke out of ignorance.

I chose to bite my tongue, and I didn’t engage with him because I knew it would not be productive. But I felt a surge of emotion in response to his comments, knowing full well that at Rowland Publishing we are very involved in the community, in Tallahassee and along the Emerald Coast.

It was quite disappointing to hear his uninformed comments about community involvement. But it also made me realize that we do not do a very good job of promoting our stewardship efforts in the communities we serve. That is partly by design, because I never felt the need to capitalize on our “giving back.” And, frankly, we’re way too busy publishing over 20 magazine titles in Northwest Florida during the year.

But, based on these comments, I think it is time to provide you with an overview of what RPI and its staff do to make this region a better place for everyone to live.

Here are a few hard facts that cover just the past three years: ■ More than $350,000 was distributed to charities in the Tallahassee and Emerald Coast area. For 2014, that includes $75,000 given to various charities in Tallahassee. More than $50,000 was distributed in the Emerald Coast region, where most of the dollars went to the Emerald Coast Junior League’s children’s programs. (These funds come from our annual Best of the Emerald Coast event, which draws more than 2,500 attendees.)

■ More than $1.5 million of print and digital media sponsorships and calendar listings were provided by our magazines to support nonprofit organizations in the Tallahassee area and Emerald Coast region.

I probably would not have shared all the above if that gentleman had not made the comment he did. Why? Because I feel that it is part of our corporate mission — and an obligation for all individuals, regardless of their wealth — to give back, whether it be time, money or whatever resource is available to give. From now on, I’ll strive to provide you with an annual report card on what we do to avoid getting sideswiped by a similar snarky remark.

On another note, in early January the FSU student newspaper

Lock up & throw away the key.

Manage your business in real time,without keys.

www.redwireus.com

Lic# EF20000499 850 Business Magazine

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

11

850businessmagazine.com REDEFINING WHAT IT MEANS TO BE MOBILE IN BUSINESS, MOBILE MEANS ANYWHERE. In the hotel lobby or at the airport, you’re constantly tending to your business. No matter where your business takes you, 850 Business Magazine is available at your fingertips and easier to use than ever. Our website features more commentary and stories about the people, issues and changes in Northwest Florida. And it’s designed with a revolutionary interface that automatically adapts our pictures and stories to be easily viewable on any size mobile device — phone, tablet or laptop. So, say goodbye to pinching and zooming, and say hello to the new 850businessmagazine.com.

SIGN UP FOR MORE INFO Want to know the latest from 850 Business Magazine? Sign up for our e-newsletter and get updates about our website, video previews and additional offers.

ONLINE EXTRAS

850businessmagazine.com/ Newsletter-Mailing-List/

Archived Stories: Peruse our vast archive of articles.

Flip Books: View this issue and past issues in a digital book format.

Calendar of Events: See what’s going on around Northwest Florida.

CONNECT WITH US …

No matter what device or social media, we want to be a resource to you. Find 850 Business Magazine in all the best spots. And be sure to join our group on Linkedin and engage with other business professionals in the area.

12

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

850businessmagazine.com

Deal Estate: View the latest real estate happenings and listings.

Restaurant Guide: Browse our listings of select Northwest Florida restaurants.

Global access with daily flights on Delta, Southwest, United and Silver

NONSTOP SERVICE TO: ATLANTA | BALTIMORE | DALLAS | HOUSTON | ORLANDO | NASHVILLE | ST. LOUIS | TAMPA and connections to the rest of the world.

IFlyBeaches.com

At RGVI, our dedicated team of risk management advisors provide you with custom solutions to protect you and your business against all forms of risk.

Having a dedicated team of risk management advisors — who are all about you and your business — will help your business seize opportunities and rise above the competition.

1117 Thomasville Road, Tallahassee, FL • 850-386-1111 • RGVI.com facebook.com/RogersGunterVaughnInsurance @RGVI

850 Business Magazine

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

13

Executive Mindset

Business Arena SPENDING TRENDS

WATCHES, JEWELRY, FINE WRITING INSTRUMENTS $22 | 1%

SKIN CARE, COSMETICS, FRAGRANCE $21 | 1%

AUTOMOTIVE $398 | 20%

OTHER $57 | 3%

CATEGORY Expenditure ($Billions) | Share of Total Spending

PERSONAL INSURANCE $227 | 11%

Affluent Spending

ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES $25 | 1% WEDDINGS $25 | 1% PERSONAL CARE, WELLNESS $55 | 3%

HOME AND GARDEN $208 | 10%

The number of Americans considered “affluent” — those with annual household incomes of $100,000 — is on the upswing, growing by 8 percent between 2013 and 2014, according to the 2014 Ipsos Affluent Survey USA.

LEISURE, ENTERTAINMENT, DINING $91 | 4%

The report says that affluents are early adopters and heavy users of technology, as well as heavy consumers of traditional media whose readership of print publications is essentially unchanged from the prior year.

The average income for an affluent in 2014 was $197,000.

Affluent is not to be confused with the “wealthy” — the 1.9 million adults with at least $500,000 in annual household income.

So, how do these 67.5 million affluent adults — 23 percent of U.S. households with adults aged 18 and over — spend their $2 trillion (60 percent of U.S. household income) each year?

Ipsos gives us a glimpse:

CHARITABLE DONATIONS $96 | 5%

(The survey was conducted March through July of 2014. Sample size was over 12,500.)

COMPUTERS, ELECTRONICS, HOME ENTERTAINMENT $115 | 6% APPAREL, ACCESSORIES, EYEWEAR $133 | 7%

While many affluents drive luxury cars, the most widely owned vehicle brands are:

TRAVEL $170 | 8% Ford (25%) Toyota (24%)

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

Huge number of affluents shop in mainstream outlets: 74% in the last year 72% 69%

Chevrolet (19%)

have a TV connected to the Internet

|

GROCERIES $193 | 9%

Honda (21%)

47% 14

EDUCATION EXPENSES $201 | 10%

850businessmagazine.com

58% use an iPhone or iPad

GET THE JOB DONE RIGHT HIRE A STATE-LICENSED PROFESSIONAL

Verify state licenses at www.MyFloridaLicense.com Air-Conditioning Contractors | Asbestos Contractors and Consultants | Athlete Agents | Auctioneers | Barbers %XLOGLQJ &RGH $GPLQLVWUDWRUV DQG ,QVSHFWRUV _ %XLOGLQJ &RQWUDFWRUV _ &HUWL¿ HG 3XEOLF $FFRXQWDQWV Community Association Managers | Cosmetologists | Electrical and Alarm Contractors Employee Leasing Companies | General Contractors | Geologists | Harbor Pilots Home Inspectors | Landscape Architects | Mechanical Contractors | Mold-Related Services Plumbers | Pool Contractors | Real Estate Appraisers | Real Estate Brokers | Real Estate Sales Associates Residential Contractors | Roofers | Sheet Metal Contractors | Talent Agencies Veterinarians | Yacht and Ship Brokers and Salespersons

Unlicensed activity is against the law.

Report unlicensed individuals to DBPR by calling the Unlicensed Activity Hotline at 1.866.532.1440, online or on the DBPR Mobile app.

www.MyFloridaLicense.com/ula 850 Business Magazine

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

15

Executive Mindset

Management Strategies C0-WORKING TRENDS

16

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

850businessmagazine.com

the SPACE

INDUSTRY Part-time offices save money for expense-conscious companies and provide inspiring environments for independent professionals

BY JASON DEHART

I

n business, overhead is the one constant headache that managers would love to reduce as much as possible. That’s when pencils are sharpened and new ways of cutting costs are keenly examined.

One cost-cutting measure that has become very popular is the idea of part-time office space. The benefits are obvious: Why pay for an office full of cubicles if most of your sales staff and other employees spend most of their time on the road, meeting customers and clients? Well, heck, there’s a whole bunch of money that can be saved right there.

Illustrations by REBECCA SUMERALL

It’s an idea that’s been around for a while but really took off when the recession started gathering steam in 2008, according to Wes Lenci, regional vice president of Regus, an office rental company that leases business centers and office suites to companies on the go. It’s kind of a “what you need, when you need it” arrangement that suits his clients well. Regus has office space in 2,000 locations worldwide (24 in the 850 area code), and the idea of paying for office space that you actually use has a broad appeal.

850 Business Magazine

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

17

MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES

“The clients are most ecstatic when they pay for space that they use, and there is great satisfaction in using three days and paying for three days,” Lenci said. “That’s where they see they make an investment and have a return. Lots of major companies want their teams in their customers’ space, so when the finance people look out in the bullpen of the headlease and see 28 empty cubicles, they are paying for that space regardless.”

Financial consultant Larry Creekmore of Destin has been a Regus member for several years and said the space he rents and the services Regus provides helps his business in many ways.

“Obviously having the Regus staff being available to do some things such as binding

18

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

850businessmagazine.com

“THE CLIENTS ARE MOST ECSTATIC WHEN THEY PAY FOR SPACE THAT THEY USE, AND THERE IS GREAT SATISFACTION IN USING THREE DAYS AND PAYING FOR THREE DAYS.” WES LENCI, REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT OF REGUS

brochures, faxing and making copies has allowed me to concentrate more on the core business,” he said. “I live about a mile away from my office and have 24-7 access to the facility. So it allows me to come back on weekends and at night, and the proximity to my home makes it convenient for me.”

His Regus membership comes in handy when he’s on the road, too. He has access to all of the company’s facilities nationwide.

He’s had the occasion to use business centers in Tallahassee, South Florida and out-of-state cities as well.

“I do travel a lot, and it’s great to have that quality office space available if I see clients in other communities,” he said.

Lenci calls it a “fantastic phenomenon” in the “space industry,” adding that it shows companies are willing to become more flexible as money tightens. He says he sees a lot of companies migrating sales teams and tech teams into these “coworking” spaces when possible to lower costs.

“The key thing they want is flexibility to upsize or downsize and only pay for space they are using,” he said. “They spend their time in their customers’ space so they don’t need full-time space. But they do need a private, quiet space to touch down in, and that’s what we offer. They pay for what they use and not for space that’s sitting vacant, and that’s the trend we are seeing now.”

And how much savings are we talking about? Each company is different, of course, and needs and situations vary. But in his experience, Lenci says the savings is significant — especially for startups.

“We save them lots of money on the front end; 68 percent on the startup costs,” he said.

Saving money is great, but there are other positive byproducts to using such spaces. Think of what it would mean for an employee to work closer to home. A shortened commute basically increases productivity, and it increases the retention of employees who want to spend less time on the road and more time with their families.

“Also, it’s working in a very creative environment,” Lenci said. “There are other people to talk to who are doing different things. The sales people may be talking to developers or tech people and cultivating more relationships.”

This idea of coworking might be here to stay, according to Adriana Lopez, a contributing writer for Forbes.

“Gone are the days of working in a traditional office setting, where cubicles separate colleagues and the only social interactions occur around the water cooler,” Lopez wrote in 2013. “The rise in coworking spaces around the world have left more people yearning for work environments that are collaborative, inspiring and stimulating.”

Lopez wrote that this trend has grown as the number of “contingent workers” has increased. Contingent workers are independent professionals such as freelancers, temps and contractors.

“In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that by 2020, about 65 million Americans will be freelancers, temps, independent contractors and solopreneurs, making up about 40 percent of the workforce.

Concurrently, workspaces are sprouting around the country in order to accommodate the growing number of nomadic workers,” she wrote.

And, as Lenci mentioned, these highly creative people wind up working in environments that are more stimulating, inspiring and productive.

There’s no special formula for finding the part-time office space that Regus leases, Lenci said. The process is based on customer feedback, which tells them where office space is needed. The home office then takes that information and passes it along to local commercial real estate brokers who help find the required space. Once that happens, Regus goes in and builds the office with amenities, including Internet access, Wi-Fi, printers and courier services.

“Customers always give us feedback and what they require or need to be successful in their business,” he said. “(They) don’t need a full-time office, just a place to touch down and be quiet and professional, and away we go. For me, our customers are the ones that are the driving force behind the changes we make and the locations we go to.”

REGUS PRICES

Which may vary according to availability and market conditions:

SHORT-TERM OFFICE NEEDS

Provide full-time office space for a project team, or overflow space for as long or as short as you need.

From $17.25 per hour

VIBRANT COWORKING SPACE

Private or shared in business lounges or day offices.

From $5.75 per hour

PART-TIME OFFICE

Access a private office in any of 2,000 locations, five days every month.

From $99 per month

FOR START-UPS AND HOMEWORKERS

Phone answering, mail handing and access to meeting rooms and offices.

From $49 per month

DROP-IN BUSINESS LOUNGE

A place to plug in, log-on and return calls in comfort when away from main office.

From $15 per month

850 Business Magazine

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

19

Executive Mindset

Human Element

CONQUERING FEARS HELPS FORM CONNECTIONS

20

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

850businessmagazine.com

TEAMWORK Among The Treetops Challenging the crew at FSU’s updated high-ropes course boosts office morale

PHOTOS COURTESY OF FSU CAMPUS RECREATION/KELLIE GERBERS AND BILL LAX

M

aintaining a productive and positive atmosphere in the workplace can be a challenge for even the most progressive of employers.

Sometimes, the occasional office luncheon just isn’t enough to ensure that the team is staying in unison.

Looking to boost office morale? Experts agree that nothing screams “team building” quite like dangling 40 feet in the air with one’s fellow staffers. Luckily for Northwest Florida business owners, a new, cutting-edge facility can make this far-flung dream a reality — and it’s right in our own backyard.

The high-challenge course is a new fixture at the Florida State University Reservation, located on the shore of Lake Bradford, just outside the city limits of Tallahassee. The “Rez,” as it’s affectionately known, debuted the new-and-improved course in the fall of 2013. With two levels of obstacles at heights of 20 and 40 feet, plus a ground-level course, this group outing is destined to be a game-changer.

According to Jordan Merrick, director of the FSU Challenge, catering to clients’ goals for self-improvement is the Rez’s No. 1 mission.

“We hope that whatever goals they have for the program is what we meet,” Merrick said. “I spent several years with people requesting challenge courses. Generally, people ask for the same types of things: ‘We want to work on our leadership,’ ‘We want to work on our communications’ or ‘We want to work on our teamwork.’ I heard so many buzzwords over

BY CHAY D. BAXLEY

the years that we went ahead and just kind of labeled what we’re calling themes for people.”

Patrons can select from a slew of challenge styles with catchy names like “Transform Your Tribe” or “One Team, One Dream” — all designed with a unique purpose in mind.

For example, if a company wanted to encourage leadership within its ranks, it might consider the “Everyone Can Lead” course. As a facilitator, it’s one of Merrick’s personal favorites.

“That program helps us show that every individual within an organization has the capability to be a leader,” Merrick

BRAVING THE HEIGHTS After climbing the cargo net entry point, teams encounter obstacles like Fear the Spear, the Wallenda, Ships Crossing and Bait-and-Switch.

850 Business Magazine

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

21

Building relationships. Connecting visions.

Tallahassee Shareholders from L to R: Larry Williams, Beth Keating, Charlie Guyton, Lila Jaber and Government Affairs Consultants Joanna Bonfanti and Brady Benford

Right now, Tallahassee legislators are making decisions that will affect Florida businesses for years to come. At a time of unprecedented government intervention in private industry, Gunster attorneys and consultants know how to connect key decision makers with industries and clients, streamlining the process to meet our clients’ business objectives. They understand the technicalities of the process, the regulatory issues and how to shepherd key legislation. Ultimately, they strive to leverage many years of relationship building, access and opportunity to educate government officials on issues that impact our clients’ bottom lines. With 11 Florida offices, Gunster is statewide and state wise.

Gunster.com | (850) 521-1980

F O R T L A U D E R D A L E | J A C K S O N V I L L E | M I A M I | O R L A N D O | PA L M B E A C H | S T U A R T 22

|

TA L L850businessmagazine.com A H A S S E E | TA M PA | T H E F L O R I D A K E Y S | V E R O B E A C H | W E S T PA L M B E A C H

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

MATT BURKE

HUMAN ELEMENT

WITH A LITTLE HELP… Members of Campus Recreation’s Marketing Program staff find it’s good to have help from friends when tackling the ropes course. (Below) Jessie Morton, student director for the Climbing Wall.

shared. “It’s just making a decision to act. It’s a process, not a position.”

Professional consultants love the conversations that arise while their clients are among the treetops. Problem-solving and

PHOTOS COURTESY OF FSU CAMPUS RECREATION/KELLIE GERBERS AND BILL LAX

logistics are a given, but a certain level of

compassion and understanding also tend to make an appearance on the ropes.

Joan Helms, an industrial psychologist and owner of the management and consulting firm JAH & Associates, has been taking clients to the Rez for more than a decade.

According to her, the new challenge course is the best addition yet.

“The behaviors, the activities, the attitude that people have at their work setting show up on the challenge courses,” Helms said. “The things we do out there help us in terms of how we approach problems and people in the office. (Those topics) show up in the same activities that are done at the Reservation on the challenge course.”

Improving communication is paramount to successfully completing each activity — but overcoming the physical fear is another major factor. While your brain is certain you’ve been

securely fastened to the structure, your shaking knees might be a little less confident.

It’s the team’s job to help conquer those misgivings — to form a real connection.

“What I tell them is to take a deep breath,” said Helms, “not to think about it as much, to trust the equipment and know that fear is temporary. The feeling that they’ll have on the other side of it far outweighs the fear and trepidation that they experience before they do it. You get such a high, such a feeling of ‘Oh my gosh, I can do anything.’ ” Though each challenge course takes only about two hours to complete, the 73-acre facility has plenty going on to turn this outing into a daylong excursion. Lakefront access, outdoor pavilions and indoor amenities help to keep the day fun and focused while ensuring that all degrees of physical fitness are made comfortable.

850 Business Magazine

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

23

CHAY D. BAXLEY

HUMAN ELEMENT

BUILDING A TEAM Chuck Simpson, Chay D. Baxley, Caryn Nelson, Saige Roberts, Shruti Shah and Tracy Mulligan from Rowland Publishing after completing the high course.

Luxury Awaits

Voted “Best of Bay” 11 Years in a Row Open 7 Days | Mon–Sat 9:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m. | Sun 1:00–5:00 p.m.

1830 West 23rd Street, Panama City 850.785.0910 | thesleepcenter.info 24

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

850businessmagazine.com

A FIRSTHAND EXPERIENCE Before our recent annual retreat at Rowland Publishing, our publisher, Brian Rowland, asked me to do a little investigative work.

I was tapped to try out the Florida State University Reservation’s high-challenge course at its grand opening, two months before the rest of the company would have the opportunity to engage in this high-flying adventure.

I jumped at it, figuring it would be a fun afternoon away from my desk. I had a few questions to answer for him: Did I think everyone would enjoy it? Did I think we could learn from it? And exactly how high were we talking here?

On all accounts, I was able bring back a favorable response. Though I enjoyed my initial experience, when we returned as a complete unit weeks later, I really took something lasting away.

For me, the session went something like this: After strapping on gear, I ascended the “cargo net,” a sloping mesh latticework designed to transport me from Point A (the ground) to Point B (the treetops), where I arrived atop the 40-foot pedestal. You can’t beat the view from this vantage point, but I didn’t have too long to enjoy it. For these activities to work, it takes a team’s worth of participation.

I won’t lie: That first step was a tough one. Somewhere between the shaking knees and the knot in my stomach, though, I forgot to be scared. It was exciting. It was beautiful. I was with people I could trust to get the job done. And if that weren’t enough, I remembered the industrial-strength carabiner keeping me safely attached to the wire. With daring tasks like the “breathtaker” swing and the “dual zip-jump” excursion, once I was out there, I couldn’t help but have fun.

When we got back to the office, I also noticed a sense of fellowship between myself and the members of my immediate team. After all, we had all just conquered some of our worst fears together, right?

— Chay D. Baxley

WAVE GOODBYE TO FRUSTRATION.

We’ve never seen anyone make the pains of outdated technology disappear by waving one of these.

One call to us, on the other hand, and we’ll show you a kind of magic that no one spell could ever do.

For technology that powers your business, call your local RJ Young representative at 800.347.1955 or visit us online at RJYoung.com.

Your productivity is our mission.

SM

An Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association

FLORIDA’S TOP HEALTH PLAN Capital Health Plan proudly serves employer groups in Calhoun, Franklin, Gadsden, Jefferson, Leon, Liberty, and Wakulla counties in Florida.

Live Well. Choose Well. www.capitalhealth.com/sales

In “NCQA’s Private Health Insurance Plan Rankings 2014-2015,” the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) recognized Capital Health Plan as the top-ranked plan in Florida and the sixteenth private plan in the U.S. among commercial HMO, HMO/POS, and PPO plans.

2015.01.012 850 Business Magazine

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

25

Executive Mindset

Creating Results TURNING CALLS INTO VALUABLE LEADS

Tracking Calls in Today’s Digital Age

Don't ignore benefit of older technology

BY JAMIE NICHOLS

W

ith the growing influence of the Internet on our daily lives, everything is going digital. For businesses, that means more and more of the focus is directed at online marketing and selling. But despite all the Internet buzz, the phone is still the primary form of communication between customers and a majority of businesses.

Even within the online space, 64 percent of businesses say that phone calls are the most valuable leads they receive.

Despite that, when you ask people to describe their phone calls — which sources and ads are driving people to call, how much revenue they are generating, etc. — almost no one can.

Because of this, marketers and business owners often have limited insight into just how well their advertising campaigns are working. And the reality is that a lot of advertising dollars are wasted on ads

26

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

850businessmagazine.com

that simply aren’t producing results when that money could be better spent on more effective ads.

It doesn’t have to be such a guessing game, though.

Call tracking is a relatively new and little-known marketing strategy, but it offers huge advantages to savvy marketers who make use of it. It gives precise insight into that big question that everyone wishes to better understand: Which ad campaigns are working, and which are just wasting money? And it’s actually a really simple thing to start doing. It works by assigning a unique phone number to each ad or campaign you want to measure, and then doing just that — measuring the calls from each phone number.

By using an online phone number provider that just forwards the calls to your existing office number, it’s easy and cost-effective to get the additional numbers. More importantly, though, online phone number providers will include call tracking reports that allow you to view your call data in a variety of charts and graphs that make it a snap to see which ads are driving calls.

OTHER ANALYTICS DERIVED FROM CALL DATA In addition to call tracking for attribution purposes, hosted communication services can serve as a great asset to your business in a variety of other ways.

Call Recording The person answering your phone is often responsible for the first impression that people have of your company.

Matt Thompson, managing partner of

Madison Social restaurant and bar in Tallahassee, utilizes call recording in addition to call tracking for this very reason. The owners recognize the need to continuously monitor their customer experience to ensure that their brand is represented properly.

“Not only can we track where people are coming from, we can add accountability to the customer experience by listening to a few calls a week,” Thompson said.

Taking call recording a step further, there are companies that gather a sample of your call recordings to conduct a thorough analysis in order to gain a better understanding of callers’ interests and intentions. This insight is then used to better train employees who will be answering phone calls so that they are prepared for objections and have a better idea of what’s important to callers.

For example, a hotel used this service and found that people were about 40 percent more likely to book a room if they knew about the hotel’s pool. By highlighting the availability of their pool on reservation inquiries, the hotel was able to increase its booking rate in the summer months.

Advanced Caller ID If you really want to get the most out of your call analytics, advanced caller ID services can provide you with an in-depth report about your callers. By cross-referencing the caller’s phone number against demographic databases, advanced caller ID services can provide incredibly detailed data points such as address, estimated income, job industry, political affiliation,

homeowner status, mortgage value and more. This is information that helps you better target customers in the future and really understand who’s responding to your campaigns.

What Does This Mean to Your Business?

Let’s say you are the owner of a local home-services company. You already have a website and a mix of traditional ads, and most of your new business is prompted by phone calls from potential customers seeking to learn more about your pricing. You’ve added call tracking to your advertising efforts in order to measure results. Maybe you’ve weeded out an ad method that wasn’t producing and shifted those funds into a more lucrative method.

Your phone is ringing off the hook with new business opportunities. All of your calls are integrated online into detailed reports. You’re able to play back your calls for any details you missed, or maybe you’re using the recordings for training purposes for a receptionist.

Your advanced caller ID data is displaying that a large percentage of your calls are from middle-age women with above-average income. A majority of your phone calls are coming in between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. and last about three minutes. Now imagine how much more effective your marketing would be if you had these kinds of tools at work for your business.

Jamie Nichols works in marketing for Tallahassee-based HostedNumbers.com.

850 Business Magazine

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

27

Executive Mindset

Bottom Line BUDGETING FOR FUTURE GROWTH

A Budgeting Primer

for Business Growth Pace yourself as you plan for success BY LAURA BRADLEY

B

usiness is booming. Customers are raving to their friends left and right about your company, and it seems as though it might be time to grow. But how do you do it? Experts say a lot of this depends on the industry you’re working in, but they all agree that the most important thing is to know your business — inside and out.

KNOW YOUR MARKET

The most important first step is to make sure you’re an industry expert. According to Sherwood Brown, business services manager for Tallahassee-based First Commerce Credit Union, being well versed in market conditions will let you know how much room your industry provides for growth from the start.

“You’ve got to be around and just kind of feel what’s going on,” Brown advises. “From a global standpoint, you want to be really briefed. Look at the trade journals and see what’s coming down the pipe. And pay attention to your very own trends.”

National trends are not the only thing you should be tracking. Local industry news can give you a more incisive look about how the national tides apply to where you live, and where the exceptions are. (Ahem … you also might want to check out some of 850’s county-specific business journals.)

If you don’t know what conditions are like outside your individual business, you’re budgeting blind and could easily find yourself high and dry. Are you in a growth industry, or is the market contracting? Is the local economy just begging for more businesses like yours? Are your competitors expanding, or closing? These are the types of questions you should be able to answer easily before you move forward.

KNOW YOUR BUSINESS AND BUDGET ACCORDINGLY

Once you’re an industry whiz, it’s time to pat yourself on the back and get down and dirty with your statements and balance sheets. To know your own trends as Brown advises, you

28

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

850businessmagazine.com

should be intimately acquainted with your revenue stream and expenses, and this means knowing more than simply where your money comes from and where it goes (although that is the place to start). You also need to pay attention to how often the money comes in and out, and in what volumes. Look for trends.

Make a note of where cuts could be made, or funds gathered, in case of a rough patch. Contingency plans for worst-case scenarios can save you from stress down the road.

The key to avoiding growing pains is to know how much you can set aside without any change in the quality of your service. And money isn’t the only resource to consider: Manpower, time and any other resources your business uses are all parts of the budget. Make sure you have not only enough resources but the capacity to manage them all. And don’t forget, your own invested effort needs to be taken into account.

“You only have so much energy,” says Sammie Dixon, president and CEO of Prime Meridian Bank in Tallahassee. “Are you optimizing your time in order to obtain the growth that you feel you need? That is a resource: your time and your energy.

Do you have the capital to cover it? The fastest way to go out of business is hyper-growth.”

Growing too fast can strain resources and cause a drop in quality for the goods or services you’re providing. Once you have a good sense of where your industry is going, and how much your business can comfortably grow, it’s time to hatch your game plan for success. The important thing to remember when writing a budget is to be realistic and have a cushion for any unforeseen problems. Hope for the best, but plan for the worst. And make sure whatever growth you’re planning won’t exceed your liquidity and your ability to keep things running smoothly — from resources to staffing to management.

“Start with the money,” advises Emory Mayfield, Hancock Bank senior vice president and Tallahassee market president.

“Determine what your budget is for the year. Then determine

how much staff you need to make growth happen and how much time it will take from everyone to get there. In my opinion, the key is to make sure that your daily activities reflect these priorities. For example, if 80 percent of your revenue comes from product X, then 80 percent of your attention, time and staff should be focused on product X.” Make sure you’re investing in the right things — anything that will help you grow. Dixon emphasizes differentiating between necessary expenses and luxury items. If it’s not directly necessary, an investment might be a better idea later on when there’s more stability.

Once the wheels are in motion and you see the budget in action, the key is to pay close attention and remember that a budget is just one tool — a flexible one. Dixon reminds business owners that “a budget, to some extent, ebbs and flows.

You’ve got to be willing to change course when it makes sense.” Stay attuned to how things are going. If your services start to strain, Brown and Dixon warn that your business could be growing too fast, and it might be time to rein things in. Know how much money you should be making, as well as how much you’re actually making. If the two differ, find out why and address it. And if your services have suffered, get ahead of the problem as quickly as possible.

“Learn from the mistakes, look at where you can improve, apologize if you have to to your customers — whatever you have to do to right the ship,” Brown says. “Because it’s always better to correct it up front than to let it get down the road, and then you’re suffering a loss trying to go back and recoup.”

BONUS TIPS FOR BUDGETING SUCCESS

Always have cash on hand. Make sure you always have liquidity, both for security and to seize on opportunities that arise.

Think of that building you want three years from now, today. The income shown on your taxes today will determine if you qualify for a loan a year or two down the line. So pay attention to how you’re handling your taxes, with special attention toward what it will mean for your long-term goals.

Diversify your revenue stream. This is another measure to provide your business some security. It’ll also make you a safer, more appealing bet for banks.

Anticipate your competition’s reaction to your growth. A lot of companies take for granted that the competition will just rest on their laurels, but this is not the case. If you’re expanding, your competitors will take notice and react. Be ready.

850 Business Magazine

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

29

Executive Mindset

Business Speak

WORKING WITH AND LEARNING FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES

Workdays in North Florida Inspire Bipartisan Work in Washington

BY GWEN GRAHAM

I

30

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

850businessmagazine.com

U.S. Rep. Gwen Graham represents Florida’s Second Congressional District, the state’s largest. In her campaign she pledged to bring the North Florida Way to Washington. In Congress she sits on the House Armed Services and Agriculture committees.

are more interested in manufacturing crises than doing their jobs.

On the campaign trail, I promised to bring the North Florida Way to Washington — and that means ending the political games and getting back to work.

North Florida is still recovering from the recession, and too many families are still struggling to make ends meet, pay for health care costs and save for their children’s college education. As your representative, I’ve made it a priority to work with Republicans and Democrats to make sure the economy improves for everyone in North Florida. Here are some of our accomplishments from my first three months in Congress:

Creating Tax Code Security Last year, Congress retroactively renewed more than 50 tax credits that had expired in 2013, but the breaks were not extended for 2015.

Republicans and Democrats agree we need comprehensive tax reform.

Waiting until credits expire and only renewing them temporarily creates uncertainty for families and small business in North Florida.

I joined a bipartisan coalition to extend a package of charitable and small-business tax credits, including credits that create incentives to give donations to food banks and credits for small businesses to deduct certain investments.

Allowing these tax credits to expire

PHOTO COURTESY GWEN GRAHAM

came home from a full day of work with my clothes covered in dirt, my face sunburnt and my hands blistered … It definitely wasn’t your typical eight hours on the campaign trail.

I’d just finished working alongside North Florida peanut farmers. It was an exhausting day, but after seeing the farmers’ hard work and hearing firsthand about the challenges they faced, I was certain I made the right decision to carry on my father’s Workdays.

In 1977, when he decided to run for governor, my dad started working full shifts, next to hard-working Floridians. His Workdays ranged from backbreaking hours as a bellboy to patrolling Tallahassee with local police. When he retired from the Senate in 2005, he had performed more than 400 Workdays in Florida.

I have a ways to go until I reach 400, but two years into my own Workdays, I’ve worked at a barbershop, food truck, goat farm, marine lab, fire station, and the list goes on.

This year, I was honored to start working as your representative in Washington — and each day, I think of those I work alongside in North Florida.

One common thing I hear from everyone — white collar or blue collar, Republican or Democrat — is that government dysfunction is hurting businesses and the economy. Whether it’s sequestration or government shutdowns, partisan members of Congress

is no different from raising taxes on small businesses — which I strongly oppose. It’s time for partisans on both sides to stop playing political games and extend more common-sense credits to alleviate the tax burden on middle-class families.

Lowering Health Care Costs Every working family in North Florida deserves access to affordable health care.

The Second Congressional District is home to world-class hospitals, but we still have problems providing affordable care to rural communities that struggle to keep up with mandates from Washington.

I’m working to cut costs, increase access to care and fix the problems in the Affordable Care Act to better serve North Florida.

Both parties have gotten it wrong on the Affordable Care Act. Republicans vote to repeal the entire law. Democrats vote against any fixes. I’m fighting to make it better;

that’s why I crossed the aisle to support several proposals, such as the Keep Your Health Plan Act, which would mandate that you can keep your current insurance plan if you like it; and I’m working to make sure rural hospitals can be exempt from overly burdensome, unnecessary mandates so they can prioritize patient care over paperwork.

Making College More Affordable North Florida is home to more than 100,000 college students. We need to do everything we can to make college more affordable for them. It’s not just an education issue, it’s an economic priority.

I joined a bipartisan coalition of lawmakers to co-sponsor and pass a bill to modernize and improve tax-free 529 college savings plans. A 529 investment plan is operated by a state or educational institution to help families set aside funds for future college costs.

Florida Prepaid’s 529 plan has more than

35,000 active accounts with a market value of more than $375 million.

The bill will expand the current savings plans to include computers as qualified expenses, eliminate unnecessary paperwork when funds are distributed and allow families to re-deposit refunds from colleges without having to pay a penalty or tax. This bipartisan bill to protect, modernize and improve tax-free 529 college savings plans is common-sense legislation that will help families saving for college in North Florida.

Passing these economic bills to help middleclass families and small businesses are all steps in the right direction, but we still have a long way to go. We need to pass comprehensive tax reform, fix Obamacare and make college more affordable. Maybe more members of Congress should work alongside their constituents — if they came home from the job with a few blisters, they just might work a little harder in Washington to get things done.

Celebrate personal renewal at the awardwinning Serenity by the sea Spa, which is now celebrating a complete transformation! Visit us to experience our all-new look while enjoying an all-new 24-hour fitness center, an enhanced women’s locker room and lounge featuring zero-gravity loungers with a private relaxation area and expanded salon and nail services.

APPOINTMENTS

850-622-9595 www.SerenitybytheseaSpa.com Located at:

Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa 4000 Sandestin Blvd.

South, Destin, FL 32550

Serenity_7.25x4.875_Emerald.indd 1

850 Business Magazine

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

2/13/2015 1:10:57 PM

31

JOBS: AN INEXACT SCIENCE New jobs are being added daily across Northwest Florida, from the airport in Panama City (top left) to Domi Station business incubator in Tallahassee (top right) to the Port of Pensacola and the military in Okaloosa County. What role do the various economic development organizations play in fostering and attracting these new jobs?

32

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

850businessmagazine.com

GROWING THE LOCAL ECONOMY MEANS, METHODS AND RESULTS VARY AS COUNTIES THROUGHOUT THE 850 REGION WORK TO BRING IN NEW BUSINESS — AND JOBS

PHOTOS BY SCOTT HOLSTEIN (AIRPORT AND PORT) AND PHOTOS COURTESY OF DOMI VENTURES AND EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE

BY L IN DA K L EIN D IEN ST

W

HEN PUBLIC OFFICIALS AND private interests talk about bringing economic development to an area, natural questions follow. How will you do it? How long will it take? How much is it going to cost? How many jobs will come — and at what kind of salary?

But there is no exact science to economic development.

A lot depends on the economy, but also on the county and the agency — and people — going in search of those jobs. As to how many jobs have actually been created, it depends on who is counting.

“Everyone looks at it differently,” said Neal Wade, the former executive director of the Bay Economic Development Alliance who left in November 2014 to become director of the University of Alabama’s newly established Economic Development Academy. “The standard (of reporting) has been debated for years.”

Each of the 18 counties in the 850 area code has its own agency charged with three priorities: retaining the businesses it has, helping existing businesses expand and bringing new companies to the region. The ultimate goal is to help counties grow and prosper by improving the standard of living and quality of life by providing more and

better jobs with higher salaries and better benefits. Their job is to be aggressive.

“Economic development is about telling the rest of the world your story,” said Beth Kirkland, executive director of the Gadsden County Development Council. “And in this day and age, you can’t wait for the phone to ring.”

How each county agency performs its job varies, based on its governance and funding structure, its priorities and available resources, as well as the personalities of those in charge. In some cases it’s pretty much a one-man show. In others, there are a half dozen or more employees focused on the jobs mission.

But the key question remains the same in each county: How many jobs have you created?

“Economic development in Northwest Florida reflects the obsession with recruitment. Why? It’s easier to both understand and execute,” said Dale Brill, founder of Tallahassee-based Thinkspot Inc., a public policy development firm which has recently expanded to Pensacola, and former director of the Governor’s Office of Tourism, Trade and Economic Development.

“We can count almost everything involved in the pursuit of foot-loose companies playing the relocation game.

Governments, boards and the public feel comfortable when counting things is involved. Our demands for accountability make counting the end game.”

850 Business Magazine

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

33

Counting Jobs Figuring out how many jobs have been created and filled in a single year by an economic development organization is not an easy task.

There is no standard method to report how many direct and indirect jobs come into a county with a new business.

At any one time, a county could have up to 25 or more potential “projects” in the works, hoping that some will actually produce jobs. Some involve the expansion of existing companies while others may be a company relocation or the development of a new company. Last year, the region’s economic development organizations (EDOs) reported producing thousands of jobs.

But it’s hard for the average taxpayer to know exactly how many jobs an EDO was actually responsible for bringing into a county.

Some economic development officials concede it’s a “gray” area, with each county having its own method for tallying its success.

“There’s not an industry standard for how it’s counted. It’s not apples to apples,” explained Scarlett Phaneuf, vice president of the Bay Economic Development Alliance. “It varies among the EDOs and it varies among regional groups. Even within the state agencies.”

The pressure to count jobs is the result of a need for economic development to justify itself, said Brill.

“The overwhelming majority of economic development organizations treat job creation as the primary, if not exclusive, reason for being,” he explained. “Local and regional efforts across 34

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

850businessmagazine.com

the country reflect a lopsided emphasis on recruiting businesses from outside the geographic area as the path to accomplish this.

As a result, economic developers find themselves focused on the ends rather than the means.”

Escambia County reports that it has helped create about 8,000 new jobs over the past five years — of those jobs, about 1,500 have been hired with the remaining jobs set to be filled on a schedule.

“First and foremost, we focus on business retention and expansion,” explained Scott Luth, head of the new Community Economic Development Association of Pensacola and Escambia County. “We want to focus on growing our industry base. We’ve been fortunate here with the diverse nature of our economy. But part of our success is the aggressiveness of the community. Every one of our newest projects were competitive and had other places they could have gone. But I have to give credit to the city, the county and the private sector for creating an atmosphere in which those companies could be successful.”

For instance, V-T Mobile Aerospace Engineering came to the Pensacola International Airport after the city agreed to build an aircraft hanger (that can house two wide-body jets at the same time) that will be leased back to the company for 30 years. Operations begin in 2016, and 300 jobs come with that project. Its economic impact on the region is expected to be $61 million.

Bay County had a goal of 1,300 new jobs in 2013 and ended

WHO GETS CREDIT FOR THE 10,948 JOBS ADDED TO NORTHWEST FLORIDA? From 2010–2014, Escambia has added more than four times the number of new jobs as Northwest Florida’s other three major development organizations combined. Here is the breakdown:

GROWING BIG Navy Federal Credit Union, the world’s largest credit union, announced last fall that it will create 5,000 jobs at its Pensacola campus — and put a $350 million capital investment into the expansion.

Escambia 8,867 Jobs

Okaloosa 789 Jobs

Bay 658 Jobs

Leon 634 Jobs

YEAR-BY-YEAR

NAVY FEDERAL CREDIT UNION

2010

36 (Incubator)

Bay All of the jobs listed are direct jobs, meaning jobs that the company has committed to hire.

80

203

30 53

2011

314 267

“There’s not an industry standard for how it’s counted. It’s not apples to apples.” — Scarlett Phaneuf, vice president of the Bay Economic Development Alliance up reporting 1,500. (The county’s employment rolls actually grew by more than that, but Neal Wade, who at the time was head of the Bay EDA, insists the county should only take credit for what jobs it was somehow involved with helping to develop.)

“We don’t count jobs we didn’t have anything to do with. It’s not fair,” he said, giving as an example the 1,300 jobs brought

100

2012

128 927

200

210 300 2,106

42

2014

5,531

Escambia All of the jobs listed are direct jobs. Each individual company agrees to a hiring schedule, which is reviewed annually.

Most of the companies hire over a three-year time frame. Some have a five-year schedule or longer.

Leon The numbers are direct new jobs announced by companies, typically projected to be created over a three- to five-year time frame.

30

2013

How the counties explain their numbers:

120 271

Okaloosa The numbers are a product of paperwork that the company completes when initiating project discussions with the EDC and state. No indirect jobs are included.

850 Business Magazine

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

35

“I’ve gone in and tried to look at those numbers,” she said. “If people want numbers to look strong, they can look a certain way.

I charged the team to come in and look at what was on the books.

A year from now we’ll be able to report out a lot better.” Last year, in fact, the EDC embarked on a new program of obtaining more objective data through an existing industry survey.

“I apologize for the lack of numbers,” said Kyle Touchstone, the EDC executive vice president who has been on the job less than two years and only this past January was able to get board approval of a strategic plan for the agency. “But the record keeping hasn’t been up to par, and I had to dig through old reports to find numbers. From now on, we will report direct jobs that we have assisted with.”

Even after checking over old reports several times, Touchstone admitted he could find no evidence of the EDC creating any new jobs in 2010.

However, last year the picture was definitely changing as Leon County saw its unemployment rate drop 0.2 percent over the previous year, and Touchstone said seven out of 10 industry sectors increased in overall job creation.

“I’ve been in an organization before where jobs was all they cared about,” Touchstone said. “But here there is a focus on the entrepreneurial aspect. They’re not going to create a lot of jobs initially. It’s not necessarily all about the number of jobs. If a company brings in a large investment and a low number of jobs, the

to a Lynn Haven call center by General Dynamics. “But all counties won’t look at job creation the same way. Our goal for 2014 was 2,000 jobs, but we don’t know what we’ll hit.”

After Wade left, however, his successor, Becca Hardin, changed the way the jobs were being counted to include only EDA-assisted/facilitated job creation through state incentive programs where a formal announcement was made by the EDA. Bay County’s new total for 2013 is now 300. For 2014, it’s 120. All are direct jobs created by the companies aided by the EDA. “I thought I took a fairly conservative approach. You do count the direct jobs, but there is a ripple effect that comes with that,” said Wade, who included indirect jobs related to new business in his totals.

“But Becca is taking a different approach.”

In its most recent annual report, the Economic Development Council of Tallahassee/Leon County (EDC) reported that it helped develop 2,200 private-sector jobs within the Tallahassee Metropolitan Statistical Area, which includes four counties known as the Capital Region — Leon, Gadsden, Wakulla and Jefferson.

Those numbers, however, reflect all new jobs in the four counties as reported to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics — including job creation the EDC may or may not have had anything to do with.

Asked if the EDC keeps records on a year-by-year basis for just Leon County, President Sue Dick said a change in the leadership team has forced the agency to look at better methods of recordkeeping.

“The public has a right to know where public money is being spent.”

—State Attorney Bill Eddins in a 2013 letter to the Greater Pensacola Chamber

HOW COUNTY EDOs ARE SPENDING YOUR MONEY Bay

Escambia

Leon

Okaloosa

Total 2015 Budget

$609,205

$1,078,000

$901,692

$462,778

Public Funding

$209,2051

$750,0002

$304,0003

$185,9264

(34%)

(70%)

(34%)

(40%)

3

7

115

3

$340,000

$570,000

$482,157.56

$264,487

(56%)

(53%)

(53%)

(57%)

Marketing Costs

$131,830

$110,000

$26,000

$33,860

Bonus Program?*

No

No6

No7

No

(percentage of total budget)

Staff Staffing Costs (percentage of total budget)

* A bonus program provides extra compensation for economic developers based on the business they attract to the community.

1 Bay County — $109,740; Panama City — $54,726; City of Lynn Haven— $26,712; Panama City Beach — $18,027 2 F rom $814,000 supplied by the City of Pensacola and Escambia County to the Vision 2015 campaign 3 C ity of Tallahassee — $130,000; Leon County — $174,000

36

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

850businessmagazine.com

4 5

6 7

kaloosa County — $100,000 (remainder from eight of the county’s nine cities) O Several work for the EDC and the Chamber of Commerce, so are partially paid from each entity No, but may institute one at a later date.

No (Tallahassee/Leon County EDC discontinued its performance bonus program when a new director was named in 2010. The previous director received $20,000 in the 2007–2008 budget year and $2,500 in the 2010–2011 budget year.)

question is how does that trickle into the community through the creation of indirect jobs and taxes?”

Working New Leads

EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE

MILITARY INVESTMENT A concentration of seven military bases in Northwest Florida, including Eglin Air Force Base in Okaloosa County, has attracted a wide array of aerospace, aviation and defense contractors to the region.

Annual economic impact: $15 billion. Shown here is 100,000 pounds of ammunition being unloaded from a C-17 Globemaster at Duke Field.

“We subscribe to the theory that we have to pound the pavement.” — Nathan Sparks, executive director of the Okaloosa Economic Development Council

Meanwhile, the work never stops. Nearly every county has projects it hopes will come to fruition and improve its economy.

Okaloosa currently has 25 active projects in the pipeline, with roughly 40 percent of them involving expansion of existing businesses in the county.

“Of those 25, 65 percent were locally generated,” said Nathan Sparks, executive director of the Okaloosa Economic Development Council. “This organization does a great job of generating the bulk of its own prospect activity. While we have great partners in Enterprise Florida, Florida’s Great Northwest and local utilities, we subscribe to the theory that we have to pound the pavement.”

Leon County’s business recruiters are currently involved in 17 active national projects, while Bay County’s EDA averages between 11 and 15 active projects at any given time and Escambia usually has eight to 15 projects going at once. Rural Jackson County currently has four projects in the pipeline with the potential to bring more than 1,300 jobs to the area.

Of course, the measure of economic development success is relative, depending on the county. In a rural area, it might be the ability to land a new truck stop at an interstate interchange. For a more metropolitan county, it’s a new aviation-related company at the airport.

“Each EDO is responsive to the community it works in. It depends on what the highest priorities are. I’ve been in a community where the focus was on (job) retention because it was hemorrhaging jobs,” explained Luth. “Success is based on what the community wants in a particular year.”

Each EDO uses whatever is at its disposal to help businesses expand or relocate to its county. There are local, regional and state incentives, which are often tax breaks that play a key role in the negotiation of a project. But that’s not always the primary selection factor for a company, reminds Wade.

“In some cases, the top decision drivers are more focused on community assets such as a qualified work force or infrastructure versus financial considerations,” he said.

Florida’s Great Northwest is a major promoter of the region and works in concert with Enterprise Florida, the 850 Business Magazine

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

37

state agency, in attending national and international trade shows and events.

Most of the 850’s small counties depend on these larger organizations to promote their interests on the world stage.

“Basically, we’re marketing and branding the 16-county region of Northwest Florida.

We try to understand what each county wants to do,” said Larry Sassano, president of Florida’s Great Northwest. “Being a local economic developer for 20 years, I know

“If people want numbers to look strong, they can look a certain way.”

— Sue Dick, president of the EDC of Tallahassee/ Leon County

how difficult it is for them to take the time to do what we do. We make sure everyone gets equal representation. ” In most cases, the county EDOs use a combination of public and private dollars to market themselves through websites and personal visits to company headquarters, or work with site consultants to host prospects that want to visit and tour the counties.

“What’s not evident in the actual job numbers is the fact that we’re planting

SELLING POINTS FOR NORTHWEST FLORIDA’S MAJOR EDOs

Bay

Escambia

Leon

Okaloosa

Recent Major Successes ■ Location of Edge Aerodynamix Inc. at Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (120 new jobs) ■ Expansion of iSirona (300 new jobs) ■ New FedEx groundhandling facility in Port Panama City’s Intermodal Distribution Center

Recent Major Successes ■ Reopening of West Frasier Lumber ■ Navy Federal Credit Union announced it will be bringing 5,000 new jobs to the area by 2026 ■ International Paper reopening its Pensacola Containerboard Mill ■ Offshore Inland Marine & Oilfield Services teaming with DeepFlex at Port of Pensacola to build an undersea pipe manufacturing plant (100 new jobs) ■ VT Mobile Aerospace Engineering will build a major maintenance, repair and overhaul facility at Pensacola International Airport (300 new jobs)

Recent Successes ■ Opening of new operations center for Kaye Scholer, New Yorkbased multi-national law firm (140 jobs, minimal capital investment of $600,000) ■ 100 graduates of Entrepreneurial Excellence Program

Recent Successes ■ Bit-Wizards Information Technology Solutions was debating whether to expand in Fort Walton Beach or move to Austin, Texas. Fort Walton Beach won out with help from the county and a University of West Florida grant.

The company plans a $1 million capital investment and will add 20 new jobs with a salary of $56,000.

County Strengths: ■ New international airport with 10,000-foot runway ■ Growing seaport (among top five in Florida based on cargo value) ■ Two significant military installations ■ Diversity of available sites and buildings.

County Strengths ■ Strong support from city, county and private sector ■ An interstate, railroad and deepwater port within a five-mile radius ■ International Airport ■ University of West Florida and Pensacola State College ■ Naval Air Station, Pensacola

38

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

850businessmagazine.com

County Strengths ■ Florida State University ■ Florida A&M University ■ Tallahassee Community College ■ Local sales tax extension to help fund economic development ■ International airport with 1,000 acres available for development ■ Domi Station business incubator

County Strengths ■ Because of a strong military presence (the military has a $7 billion direct impact on Okaloosa’s economy), there is a ready supply of a skilled workforce.

According to one study, in 2011 more than 200 individuals with aircraft mechanic training separated from the military and were ready to move into the local workforce.

seeds that might take two to three years to develop,” Wade explained. “That’s what your tax dollars are going for. Economic development is a long-term investment and every county is different, its demands and expectations are different. You can’t come up with one size fits all.”

Once considered a job most likely to be performed by a county or city’s chamber of commerce, today’s economic development is more often than not done by a nonprofit organization that operates totally independent of the local chamber. That’s in part to protect chambers from Florida’s public records law because at least two state attorneys have now declared that any economic development agency taking public money — and its parent organization — is subject to the state law.

Of the region’s three largest counties, Bay and Escambia have separated their economic development organizations from the local chambers of commerce; Leon County’s EDO remains attached to the county’s chamber. In fact, Sue Dick serves as president and CEO of the Greater Tallahassee Chamber of Commerce as well as president of the affiliated Economic Development Council of Tallahassee/Leon County Inc. The Greater Pensacola Chamber separated from its EDO most recently, planning the change soon after receiving a letter from State Attorney Bill Eddins in which he wrote: “Anytime a private entity receives money from a governmental entity, and does a governmental function, they are required to comply with the Sunshine Law. And the policy behind that’s real clear: the public has a right to know where public money is being spent.”

The chamber didn’t hesitate.

“We had been taking public money and were told we were subject to the public records law. Our chamber had never operated like that,” said Jerry Maygarden, a former state legislator well versed in the public records law who was CEO and president of the Greater Pensacola Chamber of Commerce when the split came last fall.

“We had to back up and say, ‘How are we going to do this going forward? How do we accommodate (the state attorney) and accommodate our mission?’ We just made a decision to spin off our economic development into a separate 501(c)6.”

The new Community Economic Development Association for Pensacola and Escambia County became a reality in

BAY EDA

Chamber or Not?

“What’s not evident in the actual job numbers is the fact that we’re planting seeds that might take two to three years to develop.” — Neal Wade, former executive director of the Bay EDA (2012–2014) December, headed by Scott Luth, who had been the head of economic development for the chamber.

“From the work standpoint, there was no loss in the transition,” Luth said.

High-Flying Three Bay, Escambia and Okaloosa are among the most active counties when it comes to national and international self-promotional economic development — most notably in the field of aviation and aerospace. The three have sent teams to Germany several times since it was announced in July 2012 that Airbus would be building a facility in Mobile, Alabama. The first planes are expected to be rolling off that assembly line in 2016, but Airbus suppliers will be moving to the region prior to that, and the Northwest Florida counties closest to Mobile are hoping to score big on that count — with thousands of new jobs, although no one really has an idea how many could actually develop.

Okaloosa’s Nathan Sparks was back in Hamburg at an aviation supplier forum in mid-December to meet with Airbus

suppliers. Representatives from Bay and Escambia were there as well — and Fort Walton Machining had even provided a speaker for one of the panels.

“We have now done a fair amount of outreach to these suppliers through a number of means, and the good news is that it appears to be paying off,” Sparks said. “A number of these suppliers know where Northwest Florida is. We followed up with individuals we had met with previously, and we’re continuing to remain front-of-mind with individuals and these companies.”

The big plus for these three: Each has an airport (Bay County in particular has hundreds of acres available adjacent to its Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport), and each county has a strong aerospace/aviation/military industrial base.

Leon’s Game-Changer The Tallahassee/Leon County Economic Development Council went through some recent revamping and rebuilding, shifting some of its focus after taking a close look at what it should do to expand existing industry in the area. It decided to adjust to 850 Business Magazine

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

39

FROM INDIA TO MARIANNA Atlanta-based Home Source International took advantage of a vacant 270,000-square-foot building in Jackson County to produce its “Made In America” line.

HOME SOURCE INTERNATIONAL

the market and look for ways to capitalize on its assets, especially the arena of entrepreneurism and the research and development being done by those affiliated with the city’s two major state universities, Florida State and Florida A&M. “The notion that all the money is spent on bringing in new companies is incorrect,” said the Tallahassee EDC’s Sue Dick.

“It’s sexier and more exciting and that’s what everyone wants to talk about, but we’ve noticed the trend nationally is not for as much relocation taking place. We’ve recognized that. Working with existing industries, we wanted to ramp that up.”

A major focus of the chamber and EDC over the past year was seeking continued voter support of an extra penny sales tax, part of which will be used for future economic development projects. In November 2014, Leon County voters approved extending the tax beyond 2019 — and, in a new twist, up to 12 percent of the funds will be eligible for economic development.

“That’s a real game-changer,” said Ben Pingree, the Tallahassee EDC’s vice president for Business Retention and Expansion.

“We’re looking at the potential creation of at least 8,338 new jobs and a positive economic impact of $1.1 billion. That’s magnificent leveraging, when you consider about one-third of those who pay into that local penny are visitors to our area.”

Jackson’s Re-Shoring Victory In some of the rural areas, it’s hard to create entrepreneurs. A high percentage of Chipola College graduates leave the area, and budding entrepreneurs often seek their fortune in a more urban environment. So, Jackson County goes with what it has — and that can sometimes be vacant land or vacant buildings.

“We’ve been blessed with being able to repurpose buildings,” said Bill Stanton, executive director of the Jackson County Development Council, the only EDO in the region that runs solely on government funds although it operates independently of the county and city governments.

One of those is the old 270,000-squarefoot Alliance Laundry building in the Marianna industrial park that is being used by Atlanta-based Home Source International to produce its new “Made in the U.S.A.” line of products. By the end of 2015, the company is expected to have 303 workers employed at the facility as part of a threeyear commitment to the county.

“This was a major re-shoring project,” 40

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

850businessmagazine.com

“We’re looking at the potential creation of at least 8,338 new jobs and a positive economic impact of $1.1 billion.” — Ben Pingree, vice president of Business Retention and Expansion for the EDC of Tallahassee/Leon County explained Stanton. Products such as comforters, sheets and towels that previously were being made in Bahrain and India will now be made in rural Northwest Florida by the city of Marianna using a $1.4 million grant from the state to refit the former laundry facility. “And if the company fails?

We own the building outright and can get someone else in there.”

One-Man Band The most unusual set-up is in rural Holmes County, where the Florida Legislature

created a special independent district in 1959 with the mission to create jobs for local technical and high school graduates and provide a living wage for residents.

There are 12 appointed board members (two specifically have to be women) who run the district, but there is no funding to go on trade missions or visits to national or international trade conferences.

“The county commission can provide funds out of its surplus, but Holmes County has never had a surplus dollar in its life,” said Raymon Thomas, a former

county commissioner who is now director of the Bonifay-based Holmes County Development Commission.

Thomas said a newly reorganized and “very progressive” commission recently decided to sell 500 acres of timberland (purchased decades ago through U.S. Department of Agriculture grants) to purchase two sites for a 270-acre industrial park — including 12 acres with a CSX rail siding already in place. He hopes that now brings site consultants calling.

“Now we’ve positioned ourselves to start doing something, and we’ve already gotten some inquiries,” Thomas said. Of course, not all calls will turn out to be a good fit for Holmes, he added with a laugh. “Matter of fact, I got one two weeks ago looking for a call center in a highpopulation center.”

Seeking a Bonanza In a highly unusual scenario, 12 counties in Florida and Alabama (along with both states) have joined forces in an attempt to lure the “big one,” a mega-project that will bring jobs and higher salaries to rural areas of both states that are desperately in need of better employment.

The regional effort was initiated by Bay County’s Neal Wade, Jackson County’s Bill Stanton and Matt Parker, president of the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce, in 2011.

The focus is on using the combination of a 2,200-acre site in the Jackson County town of Campbellton and Alabama training dollars to bring in a major manufacturer (possibly a Japanese, South Korean or even Chinese automaker) that will create thousands of jobs using the combined labor force of the two states. Campbellton is situated on the state line between Florida and Alabama and has access to major rail lines, roads, ports and airports.

An economic-impact analysis shows that a proposed automotive assembly plant could provide nearly 10,000 new jobs and would have an $833 million economic impact. Wade said efforts are already being made to attract auto manufacturers looking to open new plants.

“When we find a company is beginning to look, we just want to get this in front of them and say, ‘Come visit us and let’s go from there,’ ” he said. “We’re just trying to get them to realize we’ve got a site here, we’ve got a work force from these 12 counties and we can make this work.”

BUSINESSES ADDING JOBS IN NORTHWEST FLORIDA Here are the jobs that the economic development agencies report have been committed to their county over the past five years because of efforts by their organization: Bay County 2010 ■ Trane expansion — 65 jobs ■ Arinc expansion — 15 jobs

2013 ■ iSirona expansion — 300 jobs

2011 ■ Exeliss expansion (new facility at airport) — 30 jobs 2012 ■ GPD Pathologies location — 83 jobs ■ iSirona expansion — 45 jobs

2014 ■ Edge Aerodynamix location — 120 jobs

Escambia County 2010 ■ Incubator – 36 jobs 2011 ■ Cronimet – 15 jobs ■ Hixardt – 60 jobs ■ Ascend Performance – 102 jobs ■ UPS – 30 jobs ■G lobal Business Solutions Inc. – 24 jobs ■ Avalex Technologies – 36 jobs 2012 ■ Custom Control Solutions – 15 jobs ■ Alto Products Corp. – 12 jobs ■ Navy Federal Credit Union – 700 jobs ■ Dept. of Homeland Security – 200 jobs

2013 ■ Navy Federal Credit Union – 1,500 jobs ■ Global Business Solutions Inc. – 120 jobs ■ West Frazier Inc. – 105 jobs ■ IGATE-CHCA – 381 jobs 2014 ■ Offshore Inland — 100 jobs ■ Deep Flex – 100 jobs ■ Intelligent Retinal Imaging Systems – 15 jobs ■ VT MAE – 304 jobs ■ Navy Federal Credit Union – 5,000 jobs ■ International Paper – 12 jobs

Leon County 2011 ■ High Performance Magnetics and Red Hills Surgical Center — 53 jobs 2012 ■ Capital Regional Medical Center Expansion — 100 jobs

2013 ■ Kay Scholer — 210 jobs 2014 ■ FedEx — 271 jobs

Okaloosa County 2010 ■ RE Michel — 25 jobs ■ National Electronics Warranty — 150 jobs ■ North Okaloosa Medical Center — 28 jobs 2011 ■ Qwest Air Parts — 25 jobs ■ Grey Aviation — 3 jobs ■ XATOR — 6 jobs ■ Fort Walton Machining — 60 jobs ■ L-3 Communications — 220 jobs

2012 ■ Boeing — 200 jobs 2013 ■ Advanced Sawmill Machinery — 10 jobs ■ World Choice Investments — TBD ■ Bit-Wizards — 20 jobs 2014 ■ On-Point Defense Technologies — 29 jobs ■ Carolina Aero Prep — 5 jobs ■ XATOR — 8 jobs 850 Business Magazine

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

41

The unemployment rate among Florida veterans is at its lowest point since 2010, especially for post-9/11 vets, and veterans are entering employment at higher rates and for generally higher wages than their nonveteran counterparts, according to federal labor figures.

42

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

850businessmagazine.com

FEATURE

¶ ¶ ¶ ¶ ¶ ¶ ¶ ¶ ¶ ¶ ¶ ¶

REPORTING FOR DUTY Throughout the 850 region, military veterans are on a new mission — putting their skills to work in the private sector

BY TONY BRIDGES

WHEN JUSTIN SCHNADELBACH came out of the Marine Corps about 10 years ago, he had experience as a combat engineer assistant and a résumé that a buddy helped him write.

What he didn’t have was any idea what to expect from the job market.

With the war in Iraq heating up, there were fewer veterans leaving the service and not much focus on helping them transition into the civilian work force back home.

No one was really teaching vets like Schnadelbach how to market their military experience to civilian employers.

And the country was heading toward a recession. Jobs were about to get scarce.

Schnadelbach, 31, managed to survive several lean years mainly through persistence and trial and error in the job market, but it was a tough go for a while.

“I was . . . on my own,” Schnadelbach said. “It’s been kind of a rollercoaster.”

Today, much has changed for vets.

The unemployment rate among Florida veterans is at its lowest point since 2010, especially for post-9/11 vets, and veterans are entering employment at higher rates and for

generally higher wages than their non-veteran counterparts, according to federal labor figures.

Although challenges still remain — for example, helping homeless veterans and vets with criminal records find jobs — the outlook seems especially rosy in the Florida Panhandle, where more than 3,500 veterans found employment in 2014.

Here, vets are prized for their military skills and their reputation as disciplined and highly motivated workers.

This is particularly true for veterans with technical training who are job-hunting in areas heavily populated by defense contractors.

While the turnaround is due in part to a recovering economy, it also owes much to a number of new state and federal initiatives aimed at putting veterans into jobs.

Among them: training that teaches vets how to negotiate the job market and translate their skills to civilian experience; outreach programs that educate employers about the advantages of a military-trained work force; and financial incentives for companies that hire veterans.

“They have a lot more now than when I was getting out,” Schnadelbach said.

850 Business Magazine

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

43

VETERANS OUT OF WORK As recently as 2011, the employment situation for veterans was bleak.

Unemployment among post-9/11 veterans was at 12 percent, compared to a national unemployment rate of less than 9 percent for civilians. Unemployment was actually increasing for vets, while non-veteran unemployment was trending down, according to the Joint Economic Committee of Congress.

“The withdrawal of troops from Iraq and Afghanistan and the associated troop reductions in each branch of service will make it increasingly difficult for young veterans to reenlist, forcing many into the still-recovering civilian labor market,” the committee reported at the time. “Although the economy continues to improve, many young veterans will face an uphill battle to find a civilian job.”

Florida is home to one of the largest veteran populations in the country at 1.5 million — about 175,00 of them in the Panhandle — and the situation here wasn’t much better.

By the end of 2011, the veteran unemployment rate in Florida was higher than the state’s civilian unemployment rate and higher than the national average, according to Jesse Panuccio, executive director of the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity.

The situation led to passage of the VOW to Hire Heroes Act of 2011, which established tax credits for com-

THE WORK OPPORTUNITY TAX CREDIT

The VOW to Hire Heroes Act of 2011 expanded the Work Opportunity Tax Credit, giving employers financial incentives for hiring unemployed and disabled veterans or veterans who are receiving food stamps. The tax credits range from $2,400 to $9,600 depending on the vet’s disability status and length of unemployment.

The WOTC expired as of Dec. 31, 2014 pending renewal

by Congress.

However, employers can still apply for the tax credit for veterans hired after January 1, 2015.

The credit is likely to be renewed and will be applied retroactively to 2015 applications.

panies hiring veterans, made it mandatory for veterans leaving the service to receive job-hunting training and directed the U.S. Department of Labor to work on identifying the civilian equivalents of most military jobs.

The Labor Department also began funneling increased funding to states to help pay for job placement programs for veterans. Florida significantly increased efforts to connect veterans with jobs, starting everything from veterans-only job fairs to media campaigns aimed at potential employers to a special online job board for vets.

“Veterans have served us, and it’s important that we now serve them,” Panuccio said. “We’re doing quite a lot . . . Among policymakers in Tallahassee, there is a concerted effort to make this state very veteran/military-friendly.”

IT STARTS AT CAREERSOURCE FLORIDA The bulk of the work being done to help vets find jobs takes place at the state’s 24 regional CareerSource Florida (formerly Workforce) employment centers.

Each center has a staff of federally funded jobplacement experts, often veterans themselves, who work specifically with veterans. For example, the CareerSource EscaRosa office, which covers Escambia and Santa Rosa counties, has seven to eight staff members assigned to assist vets, according to executive director Susan Nelms.

PERSISTENCE PAYS OFF Justin Schnadelbach, shown here at Veterans Park in Pensacola, survived several lean years after leaving the Marine Corps but now works full time with Gulf Power.

For more information, go to doleta.gov and search for “Work Opportunity Tax Credit.”

Source: U.S. Department of Labor

MATT BURKE

¶¶¶¶

44

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

850businessmagazine.com

They hold classes and work one-on-one with veterans, teaching them how to shine in interviews, dress for the workplace and write résumés that translate their military experiences into civilian terms. In addition, they offer career counseling and steer veterans to job openings that fit their experience.

Schnadelbach, the Marine Corps veteran, could have benefited from that sort of training. After he left the service, he picked up a series of contract jobs, including beach cleanup for BP after the Gulf oil spill, before landing a full-time position a year ago with Gulf Power as a GIS mapping specialist.

His advice to vets: Make sure résumés and all certifications are current, learn how to do job interviews and get good at “selling yourself” in a competitive job market.

“The biggest thing is figuring out how to translate what you did in the military into the civilian world,” he said.

That’s simpler for some veterans than for others.

Vets who worked on aircraft or in cybersecurity, for example, can easily transfer those skills over to civilian workplaces. Infantry and special operations troops might have fewer civilian hard skills but almost certainly will have leadership experience, problem-solving skills and even customer service training from dealing with local populations.

To help vets, Florida offers the Veterans Program Portal at the EmployFlorida.com website. It allows veterans to enter their branch of service, rank and military occupational specialty to search for civilian job openings that match their military experience. The accuracy varies; entering “U.S. Army enlisted infantry soldier” returns police and security jobs, as well as one for a position that requires a four-year degree and a year of experience in pest control.

Meanwhile, outreach specialists focus on marketing vets to local employers. They identify companies that are open to hiring veterans and work on educating others about how hiring vets can help their bottom line. The industries targeted vary by region — EscaRosa, for example, spends a lot of time working with government contractors.

Nelms, though, cautions that CareerSource Florida centers are not the only place vets should look for jobs.

“We’re one component of employment,” she said.

“We may not be everything to everybody.”

Schnadelbach said he found his current job by spreading his name and résumé around as many places as he could, including sites such as Monster.com and CareerBuilder.com. A contractor who worked for Gulf Power saw his information, called him “out of the blue,” and offered him work. That eventually led to a full-time position with the utility company.

“Try them all out,” he said. “You don’t really know anything until you try it. The worst that can happen is that nothing works.”

MATT BURKE

FEATURE: REPORTING FOR DUTY

A HELPING HAND Taza Simmons, with CareerSource in Tallahassee, interviews veteran Liz McBride.

CareerSource centers in the Florida Panhandle placed more than 3,500 veterans in jobs last year. Those centers — stretching from Taylor to Escambia counties — were responsible for about 15 percent of all veteran job placements in the state, according to a Department of Economic Opportunity report.

REVERSING THE TREND The efforts have paid off.

CareerSource centers in the Florida Panhandle placed more than 3,500 veterans in jobs last year.

Those centers — stretching from Taylor to Escambia counties — were responsible for about 15 percent of all veteran job placements in the state, according to a Department of Economic Opportunity report.

The Department of Labor doesn’t keep veteran unemployment numbers by county, but statewide the unemployment rate for veterans also has improved considerably. It was down to 6 percent at the end of 2014, compared to an overall state unemployment rate of 7 percent.

Income for veterans across the country is looking healthy, too. The federal Department of Veterans Affairs reports that the national median income for veterans is about $40,000 — more than $10,000 higher than for non-veterans.

Median incomes for veterans are higher than the 850 Business Magazine

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

45

But the other part of veteran hiring is just that they make good employees, she said.

Overall, veterans have a strong work ethic.

They also tend to have some kind of technical background or trade that they’ve learned in the military. And they are high performers, good at meeting deadlines and dealing with stress. national figure in at least three Panhandle counties, Census Bureau reports show. In Okaloosa County, the median income for veterans is about $50,000. In Santa Rosa, it’s $46,000 and in Leon County, it’s $43,000.

“We’re in very good shape here, especially in Northwest Florida,” Nelms said. “It’s a seller’s market for veterans.”

Dan Turberville is a retired U.S. Army Reserve colonel who served as a military historian and worked as an attorney in civilian life. At 71, he’s back in the workplace after finding the life of a retired person “miserable.”

He said he’d never applied for a job, having owned a law firm for most of his adult life. It was an adjustment going from being the person who did the hiring to being the person asking to be hired. He found CareerSource EscaRosa through the unemployment process.

His counselor helped him update his résumé and put him through some “very intense” training on how to stand out in job interviews. Turberville said one tip he would never forget was that during an interview, it was important to make contact with every single person in the room “because you never know who’s going to make the final decision.”

The main problem he had during his job search was his age. Many companies require job-seekers to apply online before anything else. The applications never asked directly about his age, a violation of the law, but often asked what year he graduated from high school. Funny enough, after that, he would get rejected.

“That was very, very depressing,” he said. “Getting an interview was most difficult.”

But he stuck with it, and his counselor kept him constantly updated on new job openings that seemed like a fit for him. It took about nine months, but he eventually found a low-level job at Baptist Hospital in Pensacola, where he has been working since September, he said.

His advice to young veterans looking for work is to use their local CareerSource Florida centers.

“It’s probably their best option,” he said. “I’m a very satisfied customer.”

Once in the door and talking to a potential employer, veterans need to focus on the added value of their military service.

STATUS OF VETEAN EMPLOYMENT

53 percent of all post-9/11 vets leaving the military will experience a period of unemployment.

■

95 percent will find jobs before using their full 26 weeks of unemployment benefits. The average length of unemployment for veterans nationwide is 22 weeks.

■

60 percent of unemployed veterans nationwide in 2013 were age 45 and over; 35 percent were age 25 to 44, and five percent were age 18 to 24.

■

The veteran labor pool in Florida is about 720,000 and about 6 percent of those are unemployed.

■

Sources: U.S. Department of Labor, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Joint Economic Committee of Congress

¶¶¶¶ 46

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

850businessmagazine.com

“You have life experiences that they can’t buy,” he said. “Show them how they will actually make a profit or benefit from having you there.”

A WIN-WIN So who’s hiring these vets, and why?

Syn-Tech FuelMaster is one.

The Tallahassee company designs fuel management software and hardware for government agencies and businesses that have large fleets of vehicles. It’s the sole provider of fuel management for all branches of the military, according to the company.

Of the company’s 180 employees, at least 37 are veterans, said Human Resources Director Lisa Starling.

Part of that is simple practicality. Government contractors are required to make a documented effort to hire qualified veterans. And as a company that offers telephone support for its products to the military on a daily basis, it helps to have employees staffing those phones who “speak the language” of the military, Starling said.

But the other part of veteran hiring is just that they make good employees, she said.

Overall, veterans have a strong work ethic. They also tend to have some kind of technical background or trade that they’ve learned in the military.

And they are high performers, good at meeting deadlines and dealing with stress.

“Even under pressure, they can handle it because they’ve been in that environment,” Starling said.

Another plus is that veterans tend to be longterm assets.

“From my experience, they’ve been promotable because they have a lot of good leadership training in the military,” according to Starling, who said that just off the top of her head, she could think of at least 10 veterans who had moved into management positions within the company.

At Morris Allen Associates, a Tallahassee civil engineering and IT consulting firm, veterans make up most of the staff — five out of six of his permanent employees have served, according to Walter Davis, the founder and owner and an Air Force veteran of Vietnam.

Even when the company scales up for larger projects, Davis said he makes a point of hiring vets.

They’ve already been trained and have the discipline employers are looking for — workers who don’t need to be micromanaged, don’t watch the clock and will do whatever has to be done to complete the job.

“They know how to take the mail through the jungle,” Davis said. “They don’t come any better.”

Nelms, the executive director of CareerSource EscaRosa, echoes those sentiments. What she hears from employers, especially those looking to relocate to the Panhandle, is that vets are premium employees, she said.

In fact, she said that when site consultants are

FEATURE: REPORTING FOR DUTY

A SATISFIED CUSTOMER Retired U.S. Army Reserve Col. Dan Turberville got help from CareerSource Florida after a slew of rejections because of his age.

FLORIDA PANHANDLE COUNTIES Median Income for Veterans Bay County

$38,199

Calhoun County

$27,684

Escambia County

$38,926

Franklin County

$31,250

Gadsden County

$35,968

Gulf County

$29,080

Holmes County

$25,708

Jackson County

$22,583

Leon County

$42,895

Liberty County

$29,274

Okaloosa County

$49,739

Santa Rosa County

$45,747

Wakulla County

$34,982

Walton County

$34,559

Washington County

$28,353

Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2009–2013 American Community Survey.

MATT BURKE

Prepared by: Florida Department of Economic Opportunity, Bureau of Labor Market Statistics, December 2014.

scouting new locations for their corporate clients, “they ask about (the veteran work force) every time.”

The attraction, she said, is that military veterans often have a unique combination of specific technical training and hard-to-acquire “soft skills” such as excellent written and oral communication, solid decision making, and the ability to work well within a team.

“Employers love ex-military,” she said. “They see them as such a huge benefit. They have a proven track record on . . . getting things done.”

Other companies known in the Panhandle for hiring veterans include Waffle House, Lowe’s home improvement store and Gulf Power.

On the Lowe’s career site, vets can type in their military specialties and find corresponding civilian skills required for jobs in the stores. And at Gulf Power, which makes a point of attending more than 30 military job fairs a year, veterans make up 8 percent of the work force in the Panhandle region.

SOME CHALLENGES REMAIN Unfortunately, there are still vets having difficulty finding employment.

Veterans who are approaching the end of their service are required to go through the military’s Transition Assistance Program to learn about the post-military job market. But, Nelms said, it seems that not all are being properly educated about the resources that are available to help them.

In addition to the regional CareerSource Florida centers, there is the state veteran employment website, VA programs for homeless and disabled vets, veterans preference programs in state and federal hiring, and various career fair events arranged by public agencies as well as private groups such as the Wounded Warriors Project.

“I think it’s very confusing to understand where to go for what,” Nelms said.

NUMBER OF VETERANS

BY COUNTY Escambia, FL 41,789 Okaloosa, FL 32,731 Santa Rosa, FL 23,472 Bay, FL 23,335 Leon, FL 19,304 Walton, FL 6,492 Jackson, FL 5,037 Gadsden, FL 3,898 Wakulla, FL 3,509 Washington, FL 2,678 Taylor, FL 2,148 Holmes, FL 2,071 Madison, FL 1,909 Gulf, FL 1,791 Franklin, FL 1,507 Jefferson, FL 1,471 Calhoun, FL 1,265 Liberty, FL 655 TOTAL 175,060 Source: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

850 Business Magazine

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

47

FEATURE: REPORTING FOR DUTY

Another stumbling block can be inaccurate perceptions of veterans, particularly at a time when many of them have come home from Iraq and Afghanistan with combat experience. Sensationalized reports about PTSD tends to create resistance in smaller private employers, said Debby Coxwell, work-force programs administrator with CareerSource Capital Region in Tallahassee.

But “not all veterans have severe PTSD,” she said.

(According to a 2008 study by the RAND Corporation of nearly 2,000 Operation Enduring Freedom/ Operation Iraqi Freedom vets, about 14 percent experienced some form of PTSD.) If a vet is dealing with PTSD, that is addressed during the career-planning service at CareerSource Capital Region. The vet is steered to proper counseling and treatment for the trauma, according to Coxwell.

“We never want to put someone to work that is not job-ready,” she said.

Perhaps the biggest challenges to getting veterans into jobs is what CareerSource Florida refers to as “significant barriers.” These include homelessness, disabilities and previous incarceration.

About 10 percent of prison inmates were veterans in 2004, the last time the U.S. Department of Justice conducted a count.

Rick Machovoe, 52, joined the Marine Corps as an infantryman right out of high school.

He was introduced to drugs while serving and later developed an addiction to cocaine and crystal meth. Machovoe ended up serving time in prison for non-violent offenses. During his last incarceration, he got clean — and stayed that way.

He was released to a transitional facility last year and now lives in Pensacola. Machovoe began looking for a job in November.

FLORIDA AND THE UNITED STATES EMPLOYMENT STATUS BY VETERAN STATUS

FLORIDA VETERANS

Veterans can search for jobs by military specialty at employflorida. com/portals/ veteran/Default. asp

■

Veterans can use the free military skills translator and free resume builder at ebenefits. va.gov/ ebenefits/jobs

■

Employers can post job openings or search resumes at employflorida. com/vosnet/ Default.aspx

■

Veterans and employers can find regional CareerSource Florida centers at floridajobs. org/onestop/ onestopdir/

■

¶¶¶¶

FLORIDA NONVETERANS

U.S. VETERANS

U.S. NONVETERANS

Universe: Civilian non-institutionalized population 18 years and over

1,570,000

13,643,000

21,397,000

215,339,000

2013 CPS Annual Averages, Not Seasonally Adjusted

Total population, 18 years and over

Total population, 18 years and over

Total population, 18 years and over

Total population, 18 years and over

766,000

8,597,000

10,975,000

142,391,000

719,000

7,988,000

10,253,000

132,189,000

47,000

610,000

722,000

10,202,000

6.1%

7.1%

6.6%

7.2%

In labor force Employed

Unemployed Unemployment rate

48

HELPFUL LINKS

He said he has experience operating a mailing insert machine, working in machine shops and doing carpentry, but despite completing nearly 200 applications, he hasn’t gotten a single job offer. The problem, he said, is that many employers require job-seekers to apply online, and most of his applications get rejected as soon as the screener sees that he is a convicted felon.

“Nobody spends more time looking for a job than me,” he said. “But by not having an opportunity to sell myself (in person), just going by what’s on paper, I don’t have a chance.”

He said he’s been working with counselors at CareerSource EscaRosa, and they have been helpful, including assisting with his résumé. But the few times he’s actually made it into the hiring process with an employer, he is rejected as soon as his background check comes back, even though he was upfront about his criminal record, Machovoe said.

(What employers might not know: The Federal Bonding Program from the Department of Labor offers insurance against theft to companies that hire felons. It is a “guarantee of worker job honesty” for the first six months of the felon’s employment.)

“I’ve dug such a hole . . . that now, when I’m trying to do the right thing, I can’t get a break,” he said. “I realize that I made the bed I’m lying in. I don’t blame anybody for that.”

Machovoe said he has no intention of giving up. He hopes his military experience might count for something with potential employers, since it demonstrates that he has at least some fundamental character, he said.

“It wasn’t like I was a criminal from the get-go,” he said. “A guy 17 years old joins the military, he must have some kind of honor and dignity to him. If someone joined the service, there’s something special in him that not everyone has.”

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

850businessmagazine.com

In labor force Employed

Unemployed

Unemployment rate

In labor force Employed

Unemployed

Unemployment rate

In labor force Employed

Unemployed

Unemployment rate

568

The

Northwest Florida Bride’s Guide to Everything

WAYS TO WOW YOUR GUESTS

From Coast to City to Country, the top TRENDS IN venues, flowers, photogs, FOOD, GOWNS, and more!

Come AND Get It, Y’all!

Infusing your menu with some Southern hospitality

True Colors: Gowns Are Going Way Off White

10

+

essential rules from Etiquette Experts

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

3

creatively

4 2015

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

catering

life’s celebrations 228 South AdAmS Street AndrewSdowntown.com/cAtering tdAniel@AndrewSdowntown.com 850.644.2767 | 850.645.2675 NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

5

What started with a backyard grill and great determination has grown to become “Tallahassee’s Best” premier caterer. Klassic Katering prides itself on turning even the simplest events into the most memorable. With our flair for creativity and perfection, we engage with each client on a personal level to assure their vision is brought to life. By designing all custom menus, it ensures that we can not only meet but exceed your expectations in terms of quality, presentation, service and execution.

We look forward to turning your next event into a “Klassic” event.

6 2015

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

elegant creative unique d istinctive

info@klassickatering.com | klassic-katering.com | 850.894.0423 | 850.509.5005 (mobile) NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

7

THIS IS

THATplace Where happily ever after begins.

This is the place you envisioned even before you said yes.

The place you imagined from your first thoughts of Prince Charming. The place where your dream wedding becomes your most beautiful memory. The place that pampers you and your guests with attention and options, and ensures that every detail is perfect – just as it should be.

4000 Sandestin Blvd. South | Destin, FL 32550 | +1 877 705 6641 | +1 850 267 9600 info@HiltonSandestinBeach.com • HiltonSandestinBeach.com • #HiltonSandestin #ThatPlace

8 2015

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

contents

issue 2

15

coastal weddings

16 DIY: The Coastal Crown 19 ResortQuest 24 Emerald Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau 26 Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa 28 Sunquest Cruises

31

PURE 7 STUDIOS

ALENA BAKUTIS PHOTOGRAPHY

city weddings

32 34 36 40

Way Off White FSU Alumni Center Tallahassee Downtown Four Points by Sheraton

43

country weddings

44 Menu Inspiration: The Soul of the South 46 S hiloh Farm Chapel & Barn

49 Mari Darr~Welch

making it happen

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & HONEYMOON DESTINATIONS

On the Cover

568

FROM COAST TO CITY TO COUNTRY

WAYS TO WOW YOUR GUESTS

FROM COAST TO CITY TO COUNTRY, THE TOP TRENDS IN VENUES, FLOWERS, PHOTOGS, FOOD, GOWNS, AND MORE!

+

d emerald green water as your backdrop? ResortQuest by Wyndham Vacation mes to luxurious Gulf-front condos, we provide beautiful accommodations, have partnerships with experienced wedding planners to make planning your

True Colors: Gowns Are Going Way Off White

wedding of your dreams on our Emerald Coast!

rmation!

Northwest Florida Weddings $5.95 Best Property Management Company

Best Vacation Rental Firm

stered trademarks and/or service

#FollowUsToTheBeach 2013 & 2014

2015

2009 - 2014

For our 2015 cover image, we made an open call to all of our talented contributors and were flooded by absolutely gorgeous imagery from across the region. In the end, this black and white shot from Black and Hue Photography (one of our most trusted resources) simply couldn’t be out-done. Dripping with romance, oldHollywood glamour and genuine happiness, it was a picture-perfect match for what Northwest Florida Weddings & Honeymoon Destinations has to offer. Fun 10 fact? You might recognize our cover groom, Travis Clark, as the lead singer from the chart-topping band We The Kings and his stunning bride, Jenny, as one of Hollywood’s favorite up-and-comers.

The

Northwest Florida Bride’s Guide to Everything

COME AND GET IT, Y’ALL! Infusing your menu with some Southern hospitality

50 Top Tips to Wedded Bliss 52 Vocelles

54 Klassic Katering 56 John Gandy Events 60 Bijoux 62 Dream Gowns

64 Fisher’s Flowers 66 A ndrew’s Catering/ Andrew’s 228 82 Advertiser Index

essential rules from Etiquette Experts

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

9

from the editor

weddings

NORTHWEST FLORIDA

And Honeymoon Destinations

President/Publisher

From Ours to Yours, With Love First things first — Congratulations!

This is such an exciting time in your life, and I’m thrilled to be ringing in this fresh season of wedding planning with you.

Rowland Publishing’s headquarters in Tallahassee has seen a lot of engagements this past year — myself included! It’s been quite the whirlwind, with plenty of giddy moments around the office coffee maker.

Since so many of us are embarking on this journey simultaneously, I try to make a point of checking in on the others’ statuses every once in awhile — to show a little support and maybe gain some inspiration along the way. It’s so much fun to see my colleagues progress in their own unique wedding planning process, and I love having an extended circle of gal pals to Sean Hughes proposed to me this past November during my birthday trip to Charleston, South Carolina. It didn’t go off gush to. without a hitch, but it was absolutely perfect for us. This shot Rebecca, the lead designer for this was taken seconds after by a kind passerby. Planning on taking beautiful publication and a thoughtful our sweet time, we’ve set our date for February 2016. bride-to-be herself, refers to those first few magical, post-proposal weeks as “the bubble.” If you’re further along in your engagement, you’ll know exactly what she’s talking about. It’s the tearful phone calls, fiddling with your new accessory and blushing (even if it’s ever so slightly) at the word “fiancé.”

Those initial weeks are kind of like being in a dream. Pinning down actual dates and centerpieces can feel like a world away. Bask in it, sister. Because about two months in, when those champagne toasts flow just a tad slower and the heart-shaped dust starts to settle, your world is bound to get hectic. Just know, Northwest Florida Weddings & Honeymoon Destinations is here for you every step of the way.

From gorgeous venues to extraordinarily talented planners and true gourmets, we are constantly in awe of the dedicated and creative trendsetters who call this region home. Scattered throughout the coast, city and country, these individuals know the ins-and-outs of wedding planning — and do it with style.

Flipping through the magazine, you’ll notice all our showcase and Making it Happen pages feature top-tier photography. For our second issue, once again we were fortunate enough to team up with the best lenses in the South to bring you these incredible shots. Our contributors are highlighted on pages 12­–13, with full contact information provided in the index on page 82.

The 2015 issue features an increase in our editorial content, with stories on food, fashion and so much more. We’ve also expanded our “Making it Happen” section to highlight even more outstanding industry professionals.

We know you’ll find just what you’re looking for in these 84 pages of wedding-planning gospel.

I’d wish you luck, but with Northwest Florida Weddings & Honeymoon Destinations in hand you won’t be needing it much.

Cheers to you and yours. Know that I’m wishing you all the love and happiness in the world — now and always.

Yours,

Chay D. Baxley, Editor

10 2015

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

Brian E. Rowland

EDITORIAL Director of Editorial Services Linda Kleindienst Editor Chay D. Baxley Contributing Writers Shelby Bouck, Leanne Castro Proofreader Melinda Lanigan CREATIVE Creative Director Lawrence Davidson Production Manager/ Network Administrator Daniel Vitter Publication Designers Shruti Shah, Rebecca Sumerall Advertising Designers Jillian Fry, Amanda Hartsfield SALES AND MARKETING Director of Sales and Marketing Mckenzie Burleigh Director of New Business Daniel Parisi Advertising Services Coordinator Lisa Sostre Account Executives Drew Gregg Westling, Darla Harrison Tim Hughes, Lori Magee, Tracy Mulligan Rhonda Lynn Murray, Linda Powell Paula Sconiers, Chuck Simpson Sales and Marketing Assistant Christie Green Special Projects Events and Special Projects Coordinator Leigha Inman OPERATIONS Accounting Specialists Josh Faulds, Tabby Hamilton WEB Social Media/ Systems Management Specialist Carlin Trammel Northwest Florida Weddings and Honeymoon Destinations Magazine is published annually by Rowland Publishing, Inc. 1932 Miccosukee Road, Tallahassee, FL 32308. 850/878-0554. Northwest Florida Weddings 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.

Northwest Florida Weddings Magazine reserves the right to publish any letters to the editor. Copyright March 2015 Northwest Florida Weddings and Honeymoon Destinations Magazine, Inc. All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited.

Partners of Visit Tallahassee and Member, Greater Tallahassee Chamber of Commerce and Florida Magazine Association.

Picture your

FOREVER

THE PERFECT PLACE TO SAY I DO FROM THE BEACH TO THE BAY Love and cherish every moment of your wedding, from romantic white sand beaches to venues overlooking Choctawhatchee Bay. Sandestin offers the perfect location for an unforgettable wedding at the #1 Resort on Florida’s Emerald Coast.

The #1 Resort on Florida’s Emerald Coast 866.748.7863 • www.Sandestin.com/flwed Photo Credit: Amanda Suanne Photography

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

11

contributing photographers capturing raw emotion in dynamic, powerful images.

Specializing in bridal and model portfolios, she combines her love for people, beauty and fashion into a very personal and distinct style.

Alena BAkUtis Photography

Hi. I’m a professional wedding photographer and member of Professional Photographers of America, PPA, serving the Florida Panhandle. My passion is to capture the most important moments of your life. I would love to shoot your love story with the person of your dreams, sharing your magical first kiss and capturing the intimacy of the first dance at the wedding!

Amy Little Photography

Hello lovelies! Welcome to the beautiful world of wedding planning. I’m Amy, destination wedding photographer and cake addict. I travel the world documenting the unions of fabulously fun clients who adore art and travel. I’m also a plant killer, but that’s only because I’m never home.

of real-life, even ordinary, moments. She prefers candid shots over posed and values authenticity of both moments and people. She currently lives in Tallahassee with her wonderful husband, Josh.

Amy Susi Photography

Amy Susi specializes in family portraits that reveal clients’ joy, beauty and honesty of the moment. She holds a BFA in painting and graphic design.

Susi creates breathtaking art worthy of display in the most stunning of homes by capturing the emotions and emotional connections that define our lives. Her work has appeared in multiple publications, including Vogue London.

Callie Gardiner Photography

“Amazing photos.” “Adapted to our style.” “Very calming.”

“Our family LOVED her.”

“Photo booth was a BLAST.” These are client quotes from renowned Florida Panhandle photographer Callie Gardiner.

Erin Nicole Photography

I grew up with a fascination of photography and the story an image can tell. Eventually, I got my own camera and began capturing my own story. After college, I married the love of my life and started my business. Now, having seven years of shooting weddings under my belt, all I can think is “thank you.”

12 2015

HELLo MISS LOVELY

I’m Autumn, a wedding and portrait photographer in Northwest Florida. I am not your ordinary wedding photographer; my concept of shooting is about capturing the relationship between two people … the laughter, the tears, the emotions. I believe that even closed eyes can speak to the soul, which is why I focus on creating stunning imagery that moves you.

BLACK & HUE PHOTOGRAPHY

Bryan and Kelly Honhart are a husband and wife wedding photography team that launched in 2011 and quickly attracted national attention. With a modern photojournalistic approach, Bryan tries to pull creativity from his past as a professional touring musician. Incorporating a laid-back approach, their brides and grooms always become their great friends by the end of the wedding day.

Elizabeth Birdwell Photography

Elizabeth Birdwell specializes in family, child and wedding photography. Her motto is simple: Forget your matching white shirts and jeans, studio lights and stiff poses! When you’re in front of my camera, we will laugh together, have an adventure and document your memorable moments. My images will capture genuine and heartfelt moments that represent the best part of you.

Footstone Photography

While Paul and Kristin Privette have the honor of traveling all over the country to photograph weddings, the Footstone studio is based in North Central Florida. Their individual styles combine to create a story of your wedding day that goes beyond traditional and becomes pure artwork.

Amy Riley Photography

Hi, I’m Amy. I am passionate about chasing light and documenting amazing love stories. I love everything about shooting weddings, and my goal is to give my clients something they will enjoy for many years to come.

I call the beautiful Emerald Coast home along with my husband, John, and our doodle, Parker.

offers wedding, family beach and glamour/ boudoir portraits as well as commercial photography.

A unique combination of vintage flair with modern fashion makes these two stand out in a local market saturated with hundreds of photographers.

Brittnay Therese Photography

Brittnay Dawson, owner of Brittnay Therese Photography, is a young and ambitious photographer and makeup artist with a unique way of

J&J Weddings

This dazzling duo shares a passion for expansion and the talent to make it happen.

Combining Jennifer Powell Photography and Jenna Reichert Photography to make j&j weddings proved that not only are they talented in capturing wondrous wedding moments, but that they were gifted with the power to bring life to the moments as well.

GWYNEMARK PHOTOGRAPHY Elizabeth Davis Photography

Award-winning photographer Elizabeth Davis describes her style as a celebration

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

Gwyne and Mark are a husband and wife wedding and portrait photography team based in Santa Rosa Beach. With 14 years of professional experience, GwyneMark Photography

Jacqueline Ward Images With a background and education in the fine arts,

acclaimed photographer Jacqueline Ward captures the everyday moment. She resides in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, with her husband and three young children.

“blessing” that allows her to share special days with clients throughout the Southeast.

photography and art. “There is no better feeling than picking up my camera and capturing exactly what I see in my head. I love what I do and I can’t imagine doing anything else,” she says. “I try to only work with people who share the same love and vision as I do for their images.”

Leah Langley Photography Jan Ethridge Photography

Being a Florida Panhandle native, I have a little white beach sand and emerald green Gulf water in my veins.

I never take for granted the breathtaking backdrop of these gorgeous beaches and moss-draped trees that result in the most spectacular wedding shots. My philosophy is to translate the joy and love of a wedding day into stunning photography.

From beautiful portraits to heartfelt candid moments, Leah Langley creatively photographs in a way that will be timeless and cherished for generations. Growing up in the Panhandle, she’s inspired by the natural beauty that only Florida offers. After graduating from FSU with two degrees in accounting and finance, Leah decided to fully pursue her photography career. With professionalism and creativity, Leah Langley’s fine art style has been locally and internationally published in fashion and wedding publications.

Kansas Pitts Photography

A lifelong resident of Northwest Florida, Kansas specializes in fresh, bold, chic photography. When not pursuing her addiction to photography, she loves to create, read and go to the beach with her husband and their four crazy kids.

Michael Allen offers his beautiful style of photography that strikes a cord in every viewer. Michael’s awardwinning photos have graced the pages of many wedding publications, so you can trust that he will make your wedding day look amazing. Michael’s second photographer and wife, Janice, is also an awardwinning hairstylist. This dynamic duo has traveled to photo shoots in Mexico, the Caribbean, Seaside and all across the South.

Mari darr~Welch

Mari is a fun-loving photographer who documents real emotions while creating stunning art from your candid, fleeting moments in a style she calls modern photojournalism. Her work has appeared in books and magazines around the world, and she is available for worldwide travel.

Kay Meyer Photography

With a passion for life and a talent for photography, Kay Meyer of Tallahassee creates collections of images that capture the story of life’s most significant moments.

Her vocation, she says, is a

Michael Allen Photography

Mi Amore Foto

Shannon calls herself a simple girl with a HUGE love for

Pure 7 Studios

Pure 7 Studios specializes in nostalgic, sentimental wedding photography. Their work has been described as vintageinspired, joyful and timeless.

Using a combination of film and digital cameras, their goal is to create images that will evoke an emotional reaction.

They invest their spirit, creativity and skill into every wedding, desiring to give their clients images worthy of passing on to future generations.

Impeccable image quality, dramatic composition and magazine-quality shooting style are his hallmarks.

Steve puts quality and a commitment to excellence into every subject and event.

Red Stone Photos

Alexis Rubenstein of Red Stone Photography currently lives and works on the Emerald Coast in Navarre, Florida. She photographs weddings and portraits and has seen her work published in many magazines, blogs, advertising campaigns and books. She loves to mentor new photographers and has been fortunate to photograph beautiful weddings all over the U.S., as well as in Japan, Thailand and Greece.

SONJA REVELLs PHOTOGRAPHY When I was 21 years old, I began working as a news photographer for a small daily paper, and over the years I developed my talent as a photojournalist, covering any type of assignment imaginable. As a photojournalist, I learned how to capture a story from start to end through photographs, without posing my subjects — a skill I use while photographing weddings.

Terri Smith Photography

Photographer Terri Smith graduated with two degrees from Florida State University’s College of Business. While pursuing these degrees, she also enrolled in photography classes to keep her sanity.

After graduation, she went on to work for a software company but continued her love of capturing a great image. She realized photography was her calling and went full time shortly thereafter.

Woodland Fields Photography

Catherine Taylor’s inspirations come from so many different places. She blends photojournalism and portrait photography, calling it portrait-journalism. She chooses locations carefully, and during your portraits she strives to find romantic lighting and incredible backgrounds — never posing situations that are already magical.

Steve Corbett Photography

Steve Corbett is a Tallahassee event, portrait and commercial photographer who specializes in creative portraiture, dynamic lighting and a fun, relaxed attitude.

For contact information, please see page 82.

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

13

from coast to city to country

Private dining rooms and outdoor courtyard spaces accommodate anything from an intimate meal to an extravagant event. Our bar features an exclusive menu and drink specials. Looking for something even more unique? Our private wine room can be reserved for your next event.

Flowers by Milk & Honey, decor detailed to perfection, and an award winning chef to create the perfect wedding destination. Bijoux Catering can accommodate private parties, weddings and corporate events off-site or at the restaurant. From hors d’oeuvres to buffets and plated dinners, we customize each event to your specific needs.

(850) 622-0760 · bijouxdestin.com 14 2015

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

from coast to city to country

Kansas Pitts Photography

The Coast is Calling.

Uniquely upscale while retaining every drop of authenticity, the eclectic ambiance of coastal Northwest Florida makes for a dream destination.

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS NORTHWEST & Honeymoon FLORIDADestinations WEDDINGS 2014 2015 15

15

16 2015

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

from coast to city to country

DIY:

The Coastal Crown Be coastal-chic on your wedding day in this beautiful beach-ready tiara

By Chay D. Baxley // Photos by Matt Burke

It’s one of the most relaxing yet romantic things a couple can do: a simple stroll on the beach, hand-in-hand, plucking seashells from the sugary sand. No muss or fuss required.

Just a day to remember. And though it’s a little nonsensical, in a way hanging on to those once-buried treasures keeps the memories of vacations-past alive. So you do, filling mason jar after mason jar, until the house starts to resemble a roadside shell shack.

It’s quite the conundrum. But if you fancy yourself a DIY bridal maven, plan to put those beautiful mementos on center stage during your upcoming seaside soiree by creating your very own coastal-inspired crown.

A swoon-worthy headdress, this piece is flawlessly nautical and totally authentic to the region without being over the top. Customizable to be ideal for flower girls, bridesmaids or the star of the show herself, this accessory can lend your beach goddess look a genuine air of natural glamour.

Estimated to take no more than an hour of your day, for such a simple project this coastal crown is full of character and creative, local flair. A quick trip to any nearby arts and crafts store will get you started. After that, it’s nothin’ but clear skies, smooth sailing and seashell dreams. n

You’ll Need…

•A n inexpensive dress-up tiara (easily found at dollar stores as well as arts and crafts supply shops) • Twine or rope in a neutral hue • A hot glue gun • Seashells of varying shapes and sizes • Store-bought accessories for added dimension • A good soundtrack and a glass of champagne (optional)

Model: Margaret Wallis, bride Hair & Makeup: Veronica Dunkelberger (facebook.com/cosmobyveronica) Venue: SouthWood House & Cottages, Tallahassee (southwoodgolf.com) NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

17

from coast to city to country

Directions

1

Gather supplies. Arrange shells by shape and then by color, for easy accessibility during assembly.

2

Remove any feathers or fabric from your tiara and begin wrapping with choice color of twine or rope, periodically gluing in place with a hot glue gun. No need to get every nook and cranny — just the big stuff. The seashells will adhere better to the material than the smooth surface of your tiara.

3

Before you get started gluing, come up with an overall design for how you’d like the tiara to flow. Begin in the center of the crown, largest items first, and work your way out — securing each item with the hot glue gun.

4

Fill in extra space with smaller shells until your crown looks full and symmetrical. Ensure all shells have been securely fastened to the tiara.

Then, it’s time to don your crown.

18 2015

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

Try incorporating storebought pieces for added glitz and glamour. You may also want to consider amping up your already existing seashell collection with hand-selected shells from the store for a more polished look.

ResortQuest gulf place

Celebrate life and love under twinkling cafÊ lighting on the Green at Gulf Place or by the sheen of a glowing sunset over the Gulf of Mexico. Neighboring Destin’s bustling shopping and attractions scene, Gulf Place is nestled within quiet and eclectic Santa Rosa Beach, known for its Southern charm and vibrant local flavors. This resort-style venue brims with unique amenities, a vast assortment of accommodations to suit nearly every budget and endless natural beauty. An ideal location for an unforgettable beach wedding, Gulf Place offers an abundance of gorgeous, natural backdrops to choose from for that big day. Photos by PURE 7 STUDIOS NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

19

ResortQuest

Callie Gardiner Photography

Tops'l

20 2015

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

Callie Gardiner Photography

Red Stone Photos

Red Stone Photos

Red Stone Photos

from coast to city to country

ResortQuest TOPS’L Beach & Racquet Resort is a tranquil resort located just east of Destin, offering the peace of a location off the beaten path paired with the conveniences of city attractions just a few minutes away. Situated on 52 private acres, this full-service resort is bordered by beautiful white sand beaches and a nature preserve. Guests have the luxury of staying onsite in a variety of fully furnished condominiums and the pleasure of experiencing this unique region without ever stepping foot off of the property. A beach wedding is simpler — ­ and sweeter — when you let the experts of this awardwinning resort venue take the reins. Photos by Callie Gardiner Photography, Red Stone Photos

Tops'l

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

21

ResortQuest Sundestin

22 2015

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

from coast to city to country

ResortQuest For the couple that likes to be a stone’s throw away from the area’s best shopping and restaurants, SunDestin’s breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico and close proximity to all of downtown Destin’s activities are sure to impress.

Here, attendees have limitless possibilities when it comes to leisurely exploration and onsite amenities, while the bridal party will experience the finest in ceremonial services. At SunDestin, it’s guaranteed to be an unforgettable event. Photos

Sundestin

by Jan Ethridge Photography

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

23

Barefoot Beach Weddings

Dex Designs Photography

from coast to city to country

Emerald Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau

One of the world’s most vibrant and enchanting settings, the Heart of Florida’s Emerald Coast encompasses Destin, Fort Walton Beach and Okaloosa Island. Every year happy couples from across the globe recite their vows on the shores of this precious strip of coastline. Selecting the predestined romance of this dreamy region to become the backdrop for your event and with the experts at the Emerald Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau your guide, love will take center stage. So close and yet a world away, it’s as ideal a spot to say, “I do,” as it is to whisper, “Remember when we did.”

Photos by Barefoot Beach Weddings, DEX Designs Photography

24 2015

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

Dex Designs Photography

Emerald Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau

Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa

26 2015

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

from coast to city to country

Set against sugar-white beaches, emerald-green waters and breathtaking vistas sits Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa. In addition to its pristine beaches, this venue features three spacious, indoor ballrooms along with multiple smaller rooms and three perfectly situated sundecks right on the Gulf of Mexico. Possibilities are endless as receptions, ceremonies, private meals or farewell brunches of all shapes and sizes will find an ideal setting within the many venues offered by the hotel. Whether your vision calls for a true destination experience or a more traditional approach, there is no desire too intimate, no vision too impressive for Hilton Sandestin. Photos by Michael Allen Photography

Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

27

from coast to city to country

Sunquest Cruises

After crossing the threshold of SunQuest Cruise’s award-winning, 125-foot SOLARIS, it’s easy to see that this Destinbased yacht was designed with weddings in mind. An experience that starts at the moment of booking, couples work closely with the yachtvs in-house wedding planner throughout the entire process. Interested? Then prepare for incredible menus featuring the Gulf Coast’s freshest ingredients, a background of natural nautical beauty and an air of extraordinary client service. On board the SOLARIS, there’s a package ready to accommodate nearly every budget.

Photos by Amy Susi Photography

28 2015

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

Sunquest Cruises

from coast to city to country

S AY I D O D O W N T O W N . C O M 30 2015

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

from coast to city to country

Kay Meyer Photography

A City Worth Celebrating.

A gorgeous, contemporary blend of minimalism and Southern hospitality, the city vista is polished, cultured and vivacious.

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

31

Jacqueline Ward Images

from coast to city to country

Way Off White More modern brides are adding a splash of color to their special day — here’s how you can, too

By Shelby Bouck

32 2015

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

When it comes to finding that perfect dress, every bride is looking for her own, unique version of — wait for it — the exact same thing.

They want the “wow factor.”

Brides on reality TV use the phrase to denote a desire to stand out, to be memorable, and hey, maybe even to startle a little. And what better way to do that than to choose a gown with a hue that’s a bit truer to your own colors than the gleaming whites of yesteryear? For fearless brides whose weddings don’t need to be too traditional, colorful gowns are among this year’s most coveted trends.

There are as many reasons to pick a colorful wedding gown as there are brides who choose them.

Some want to look like their favorite celebrities: Jessica Biel’s bright pink wedding dress caused a stir at her 2013 nuptials with Justin Timberlake. Sex and the City alums Sarah Jessica Parker and Cynthia Nixon got married in black and green, respectively, and glamour queen Elizabeth Taylor wore a yellow dress at one of her many wedding ceremonies. Others just think they look best in rainbow hues.

Experts say there’s not a thing wrong with that, either.

Courtesy Dream Gowns

“Our brides want to look and feel their absolute best on their wedding dress on an orange background and it will Expert Tip Worried day,” shared Kristen Barstow, owner of Tallahassee’s Vocelles | The Bridal ruin everything.” that ivory and eggshell Shoppe, “and sometimes that means opting for a gown in a color that will With that in mind, while celebrities in really aren’t your color?

Don’t be. “When a bride flatter their complexion, exemplify the season of their wedding or be just New York and Los Angeles pick bright, infinds a gown that fits her plain different and fun.” your-face colors for their personality it is always the These vibrant brides wouldn’t be the first ladies to wedding dresses, bridal most flattering.” – Lindsey Mathews, Dream Gowns start new traditions at their weddings. For many years expert Barstow notes that British practice dictated that upper-class brides wore even the most daring silver on their wedding day. White only became the Northwest Florida brides don’t stray too far from norm after Queen Victoria married Prince Albert in a traditional colors. white lace dress.

“We are seeing many brides do shades of champagne, Many cultures outside of the West don’t see white and a few even go with very pale shades of pink,” she as a traditional wedding color at all. In Asian societies, shared. for example, brides have chosen for generations to Don’t worry, there are a wide range of choices even wear bright red dresses in keeping with family and within those two hues. national customs.

“Our designers at Vocelles are giving brides the When it comes to Northwest Florida, the number of options of colors that range from café to bronze in the brides who deviate from all-white ceremonies has been champagne family and pinks that range from moscato growing slowly but surely over the past few years. to blush,” noted Barstowe. “We love it when brides “It started out slow, as in ‘we’ll do a little splash of combine traditional fashion with modern taste — and color,’” remarked Destin-based photographer Mari this could mean having a beautiful ivory lace over a Darr-Welch. “Or jewels. The most (common thing) soft champagne underlay.

Expert Tip “Non-traditional gowns I’ve seen is a split back, or the belt, or different-color For brides who have already had a white wedding, like this one can pull an entire theme beading on the dress.” a different color on the second time around might be or idea together and turn a typical ceremony into the wedding of A word of caution on this colorful trend. From a something to consider. your dreams.” – Lindsey Mathews, photographic perspective, Darr-Welch shared that “Brides who are getting married at a more mature manager of Dream Gowns brides who are choosing to wear rich colors should be stage in life will consider finding a dress that is not a careful about their venue’s décor. traditional white or ivory color,” explained Barstow.

“If you’re going with a bold dress, then you really need to make sure Traditionalists, meanwhile, have no need to fear. For Northwest Florida your wedding colors blend with that dress,” she warned. “You can’t weddings, white and ivory gowns are here to stay. However, brides willing have opposing colors, because at some point you’ll be walking by (your to take the sartorial road less traveled will be rewarded with memories and décor), and maybe you’ll be kissing your grandma, but you’ll have a red unique photographs that will last a lifetime. n Courtesy Dream Gowns

Brittnay Therese Photography

from coast to city to country

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

33

34 2015

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

KAY MEYER PHOTOGRAPHY

J&J Weddings

KAY MEYER PHOTOGRAPHY

Courtesy FSU ALUMNI CENTER

FSU Alumni Center

KAY MEYER PHOTOGRAPHY

J&J Weddings

J&J Weddings

KAY MEYER PHOTOGRAPHY

from coast to city to country

Adjacent to Florida State’s campus, under a lush, fragrant canopy of blooming magnolias and live oaks, sits the Alumni Center. Teeming with charm, this property presents the perfect opportunity to have a fresh, outdoor-inspired wedding in the heart of Tallahassee. A beautiful backdrop for rehearsal dinners, wedding ceremonies and receptions, the Alumni Center’s classic design blends well with any wedding motif. For indoor events, the ballroom’s light and airy ambiance is unparalleled. As an affiliate of Andrew’s Catering, one of Tallahassee’s premier catering services, dining patrons will be treated to the highest quality in artistic cuisine. In other words, it’s the total package.

FSU Alumni Center

Photos by J&J Weddings, Kay Meyer Photography, Courtesy FSU Alumni Center NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

35

Tallahassee Downtown

36 2015

Tallahassee’s Downtown is as unique a wedding destination as you’ll find in Northwest Florida. Somehow, this vibrant, historic corridor of Florida’s Capital City has managed to encapsulate the grace of a quaint Southern destination, with the grit of one of America’s great cities. Boasting a variety of intimate vignettes, there’s no doubt that beauty and diversity are Downtown Tallahassee’s defining characteristics — it’s where lush green spaces, classic charm and urbanpanache coexist in an unprecedented way. Photos by Elizabeth Davis Photography, Kay Meyer Photography

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

Elizabeth Davis Photography Elizabeth Davis Photography

Kay Meyer Photography

Elizabeth Davis Photography

Elizabeth Davis Photography

Courtesy Downtown Improvement Authority

from coast to city to country

Courtesy Downtown Improvement Authority

Elizabeth Davis Photography

Courtesy Downtown Improvement Authority

from coast to city to country

In the heart of the South it can be rare to find sleek, contemporary options for that special day. For the couple in search of an urban backdrop with an added allure of convenience, Tallahassee’s Downtown is the place to be.

Here, betrotheds are invited to vibe on the city’s chic metropolitan setting and accommodations, while guests are endlessly entertained by the areas many museums, boutique storefronts, gourmet dining options and lively nightlife.

Tallahassee Downtown urban

Photos by Elizabeth Davis Photography, Courtesy Downtown Improvement Authority

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

37

Courtesy Downtown Improvement Authority

Elizabeth Davis Photography

Elizabeth Davis Photography

from coast to city to country

Tallahassee Downtown Classic

Tallahassee, renowned for its Southern charm and endless hospitality, is the ideal locale to host a true, classically inspired soiree. Sprinkled between downtown’s ancient oak trees and cozy park benches, visitors will find a plethora of stately churches unparalleled in beauty to choose from for the ceremony — and all are well within walking distance of the most delicious dining and reception locales the Capital City has to offer. Photos by Elizabeth Davis Photography, Courtesy DOWNTOWN IMPROVEMENT AUTHORITY

38 2015

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

Elizabeth Davis Photography

Courtesy Downtown Improvement Authority

Kay Meyer Photography

from coast to city to country

In Tallahassee, anything is possible — even a waterside ceremony with a little extra edge, like those hosted at Cascades Park, with its 24-acres of open, urban space, two ponds and gushing waterfall. Hearing the call of the wild? Tallahassee’s beloved downtown is stitched together by lush green spaces more akin to an outdoor oasis than any conventional venue in today’s wedding market. If natural beauty is tickling your wedding planning fancy, choose from one of the historic Chain of Parks so perfectly cocooned by Park Avenue you’ll almost forget you’re in Northwest Florida’s epicenters of cultural enlightenment.

Tallahassee Downtown Natural

Photos by Elizabeth Davis Photography, Kay Meyer Photography, Courtesy Downtown Improvement Authority, CITY OF TALLAHASSEE NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

39

Four Points

Courtesyy Four Points Sheraton

Sheraton

40 2015

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

Lewis JOHNSON photography

Lewis JOHNSON photography

Courtesyy Four Points Sheraton

Courtesyy Four Points Sheraton

Courtesyy Four Points Sheraton

from coast to city to country

Four Points Spiraling up from the heart of Tallahassee into the city skyline, Four Points by Sheraton has created a reputation for itself as both a glimmering sapphire landmark and Tallahassee’s newest luxury hotel. By day, you and your guests will be able to relax by the cool, refreshing pool — and by night, you’ll enjoy exquisite onsite catering in the resort’s impressive ballroom. Your entire guest list will marvel at the beauty and accommodations of the more than 150 rooms of the hotel, making Four Points by Sheraton a perfect wedding destination. Photos by Lewis Johnson

Sheraton

Photography, Courtesy Four points Sheraton NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

41

Shiloh Farm

WELCOME TO SHILOH . . . one of the South's most unique and memorable venues!

Shiloh Farm is an enchanting event venue nestled in the charming Southern countryside near Tallahassee.

With 65 acres of open fields, majestic oaks and charming outbuildings, it is the perfect setting for outdoor or chapel weddings and numerous other events. From the Grand Ol’ Barn (heated and cooled with charming restrooms!) and the 200-year-old Shiloh Chapel, to the quaint Rose Cottage and its beautiful Tea Room, there is a picturesque spot at Shiloh for any size celebration. weddings · fundraisers · corporate events · sorority/fraternity gatherings · festivals & concerts

42 2015

1500 Benjamin Chaires Road, Tallahassee, Florida – just 7 minutes from I-10 850-766-5902 · ShilohEvents.com · BookShilohEvents@gmail.com NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

from coast to city to country

Escape to the Country

ELIZABETH DAVIS Photography

Elegant estates lined with giant oaks.

Gorgeous rustic barns set atop lush, rolling hills. Getting away from it all has never been so elegant.

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

43

Courtesy Andrew's Catering

from coast to city to country

Menu Inspiration:

The Soul of the South Southern comfort food leaves a delicious impression — even at the most sophisticated soirées

By Chay D. Baxley

44 2015

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

Somewhere, likely lost Expert Tip “Once, forever in the vaults of the brides figure out Pinterest, an idea so the theme they want to run with, it just deliciously unexpected works.” – Andrew was hatched that it Reiss, owner of sparked an entirely new Andrew’s Catering generation of wedding planning connoisseurs.

The notion? To add a dash of Southern hospitality and panache to reception fare by reinventing traditional menus in surprisingly savory ways.

Imagine — serving food at a wedding that people actually want to eat. It was a breakthrough. And the wedding game, for all intents and purposes, was forever changed.

Once word was out that Southern comfort food was the new caviar — anything (literally, anything) was on the table. Cornbread, fried

chicken, alligator tail and gourmet shrimp-andgrit stations were seamlessly incorporated into the finest of place settings. Nationwide, skilled catering professionals began pouring themselves into mastering the art of hors d’oeuvres like fried green tomatoes and gourmet mac-n-cheese bites while pastry chefs and bakers concentrated on the sweeter points of Southern cookery, like the disheveled perfection of a deconstructed multi-tiered cake.

Though imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, according to locals in Northwest Florida there’s simply no substitute for the real thing.

And when it comes to Old South cuisine, this region’s offerings are authentic.

“Southern-inspired menus are consistent with the look and feel of (our) venues,” emphasized Andy Reiss, owner of Andrew’s Catering as well as Tallahassee’s two iconic restaurants, Andrew’s Capital Grill & Bar and Andrew’s 228.

“I love running with a theme,” he continued.

“If you’re going to get married under a big oak tree with Spanish moss hanging from it, don’t you think that a good fit would be to have a Southern-inspired, plantation-type menu?”

On that point, countless brides couldn’t agree more. As a result, the uptick in requests for Southern-styled menus is undeniable and has coaxed many service providers, including Andrew’s, to embrace this trend with open arms and conveniently customizable menu options.

“We’ve developed an entire Southern-inspired menu,” shared Reiss. “As soon as we hear (a buzz

word) or about a venue where these menus work so well, it’s not really a problem finding food that fits the bill.”

Along the Gulf Coast, the same rules apply.

“We’ve definitely seen an increase,” agreed Rachel Forman, event coordinator at Bud & Alley’s Waterfront Restaurants & Catering in Seaside. “People have been adding collard greens to their menus and gumbos. I think it gives guests coming from out of state a taste for our food down here and just a chance to try something new.”

While partygoers are sure to love the flavor, making mama’s favorites fit for a fantastic evening can be a bit of a challenge. Experts say the right amount of modernization mixed with some sassy verbiage on the menu front is crucial to making this cuisine taste and feel current.

“There’s a number of ways people can bring that Southern flair into their menu — especially being down here in the South,” said Sarah Ennis, lead event coordinator with Klassic Katering in Tallahassee.

“Southern weddings are definitely the trend,” she added. “But more than that, we want to incorporate our heritage and our upbringing into the event and to give it that true Southern charm.

“One way to do that is by incorporating some modern ingredients into Southern favorites.

Since the farm-to-table concept is really, really popular right now, it allows us to source the freshest local ingredients in order to modernize

Gwynemark Photography

Mari Darr~Welch

Courtesy Andrew's Catering

from coast to city to country

those Southern faExpert Tip “Outside vorites that a bride or of using the freshest couple might have had ingredients that you can find, presentation in their childhood. For is key.” – Robert example, chicken and Bulgarella, owner of waffles is something we Bistro Catering can do with a great local rosemary-infused honey.”

For styles that vary from the traditional (the plated or buffet), industry professionals are always finding fresh, creative ideas for food service the day of the event. Considering serving an appetizer of tomato soup and petite grilled cheese sandwiches? Have your catering company present them in champagne flutes for an interesting and sexy twist on an old-school favorite.

The options for this trend are endless and, thus far, it appears to be anything but fleeting. n

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

45

Elizabeth Birdwell Photography

46 2015

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations Footstone Photography

Elizabeth Birdwell Photography

Elizabeth Birdwell Photography

Shiloh Farm Chapel and Barn 


Amy Little Photography

Courtesy Shiloh Farm

Elizabeth Birdwell Photography

Courtesy Shiloh Farm

from coast to city to country

Shiloh Farm, Chapel and Barn is a beautiful, 65-acre venue on the outskirts of Tallahassee ideally situated where town meets country. A true storybook setting, this gem is perfectly equipped to create timeless memories. No matter the occasion, the charm of Shiloh’s climate-controlled barn, canopy oaks and open meadows, as well as the antique elegance of the 18th-century chapel, is sure to delight. And don’t miss the fairytale extras at the Rose Cottage!

Shiloh Farm Chapel and Barn

PHOTOS BY Amy Little Photography, Elizabeth Birdwell Photography, Footstone Photography

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

47

Augusta Jones Blue by Enzoani Blush by Hayley Paige Casablanca Bridal Essense of Australia Love Marley Maggie Sottero Pronovias Watters Wtoo

Gowns start at $800.

Samples range from size 2 - 28. w w w.voc elle sbridal. c o m 1240 Thomasville Road Tallahassee, Florida (850) 841-7663

Photo credit: Blush by Hayley Paige

48 2015

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

making it happen

Sonja Revells Photography

In Northwest Florida, We Know Who’s Who

Hosting a beautiful wedding is a process greater than just the sum of its parts. When fate introduces a bride to vendors who understand the ins-and-outs of this industry, and are as eager about the big day as she is, then the stars have truly aligned.

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

49

Terri Smith Photography

making it happen

Top Tips to Wedded Bliss Northwest Florida’s etiquette experts offer up their most utilized rules for wedding planning

By Leanne Castro // Illustration by Rebecca Sumerall

50 2015

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

You know it’s true — from the moment the two of you shared the news of your pending nuptials with family and friends you’ve been showered with all the love and light they could muster.

An unparalleled celebration, this season of romance, joy and laughter is perfectly designed to bring old friends together to create new, unforgettable memories. It’s a beautiful, once-in-alifetime kind of thing.

But remember, the wedding planning process is a delicate dichotomy. Along with all that love and bliss bestowed on you comes quite a bit of responsibility. When logistics come into play, there’s a lot of pressure and expectations thrust upon the happy couple. And the last thing you want is to offend someone dear to you.

Fear not, though. Professional etiquette experts like Elizabeth Redfearn of Redfearn Etiquette and John Gandy of John Gandy Events, have dedicated their lives to helping ease any sort of self-doubt that might be creeping into your mind right about now.

Here are their top 10 favorite tips for couples in the thick of planning.

making it happen

1

When putting together seating arrangements for the reception dinner, try to be thoughtful in your assignments. Sure, your guests are there for you — but they’ll really enjoy themselves if you take the time to seat them next to someone you know they’ll hit it off with. For an added personal touch and to help conversations flow, try putting a fun fact on everyone’s place card. Write quick notes like, “The fellow on your right served in the Peace Corps,” or “Aunt Lou, the woman to your left, is famous for her apple pie.”

“You have to be concerned with making sure the people who are sitting next to each other will get along,” instructed Redfearn.

envelope. Ipso facto, if the child is invited to the wedding, his or her name will be included on the envelope. If it is not, well then, you get the idea. Gandy also noted the possibility of offering a babysitting service onsite for those attendees with children too young to be left alone.

can’t come at all, the gracious thing for the bride to do is to be understanding and not make them feel bad.”

7

Another cost that accumulates during the wedding planning process is that of sending invitations. There are certain people in the bride and groom’s life — such as grandparents who live far away and are unable to travel — who you think it’s futile to send an invitation, knowing quite well they will not be able to attend. But experts urge couples to send out invitations as a courtesy to anyone they know would be honored to receive the memento as a keepsake.

8

2

Erring on the side of inclusiveness with invitations is true when it comes to deciding who in the office to invite, as well. “My rule of thumb is that if you would go out to dinner with them, include them. If you’re inviting everyone but one person, that’s the sort of slight that you might not want to have,” Gandy said.

There are several options for who can walk the bride’s mother down the aisle. It could be her spouse, son or even the groom. Or it could be the head usher. The bride’s mother should be the last person to be seated before the ceremony starts.

3

A bride should give her guests until two weeks before the wedding to RSVP. Any time after that will risk complicating the catering company’s final head count.

9

4

In this modern age, anybody can walk the bride down the aisle, be it her father, uncle or girlfriend.

“A lot of independent women,” explained Gandy, “want that to be their moment and they don’t want to be ‘given away.’ There are no rules now.”

5

Deciding whether to allow children to attend the ceremony and reception is a touchy subject. Both Redfearn and Gandy have encountered countless instances involving wedding guests who took little heed to the wedding party’s request for no children.

To avoid coming off as abrasive by writing “no children allowed” on the invitation, Redfearn recommends including the names of every person invited on the invitation

6

Being a bridesmaid can get pretty expensive. Eventually, the costs of the luncheons, bridal showers and dresses start to add up. Due to this, Gandy shared, brides encounter bridesmaids backing out of their duties more often than one might think.

“A lot of people accept in the excitement of the moment and then they realize the expenses involved,” Gandy disclosed. “They can’t necessarily afford to do it. If somebody can’t afford to participate in your wedding but they’d still like to be a guest or if they

More and more women are getting married later in life or for a second or third time. With this change, some of the wedding traditions alter slightly. “Typically, the attire and bridal party size would change with a second or third wedding, or an older couple — but, to each his own,” Gandy said. He added that it is probably not appropriate to have a wedding registry for a second or third wedding. Redfearn echoed those sentiments as well. For these types of ceremonies, simplicity is often key.

10

During the planning process, don’t rely exclusively on social media. For the millennial bride this can be a particular challenge, but in years to come you’ll be thrilled to have a physical copy of your wedding announcement instead of a link to a Facebook post. n

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

51

making it happen

Vocelles The Bridal Shoppe

52 2015

A welcoming air of laid-back luxury fills the walls of Vocelles | The Bridal Shoppe. Crystal chandeliers and rows of exquisite bridal gowns give the boutique a feel of elegance — while the shop’s caring and compassionate stylists make sure each bride’s visit is always personal and fun. Expect an experience characterized by individual service, where brides and their guests are encouraged to peruse the shop’s collection of gowns from the industry’s most sought-after designers. Prices begin in the $800s and samples vary in size from 2 through 28. Conveniently set in the center of Tallahassee’s bustling Midtown district, Vocelles Bridal is the area’s leader in bridal fashion. PHOTOS BY Mi Amore Foto

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

Vocelles The Bridal Shoppe

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

53

54 2015

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

Steve Corbett Photography

Steve Corbett Photography

Courtesy of Klassic Katering

Terri Smith Photography

Klassic Katering

John Gallino Photography

Steve Corbett Photography John Gallino Photography

John Gallino Photography

Steve Corbett Photography

John Gallino Photography

making it happen

Taste can create powerful memories ­— and mastering the flavor of love is Karen Chapman’s specialty. The proprietor and heart behind Klassic Katering, Chapman and her crew of brilliant gourmets are known for creating mouthwatering fare, seasoned to perfection with equal parts experience, passion and sass. Always clued-in on the latest in culinary delights, there’s no event too grand nor too intimate for this capable company. From contract signing to days-end, Chapman’s chief concern is making sure the happy couple stays just that way — “I make the bride, my bride,” she says with a smile.

Klassic Katering

PHOTOS BY John Gallino Photography, Steve Corbett Photography, Terri Smith Photography, Courtesy Klassic Katering NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

55

making it happen

john gandy events

56 2015

Attention to the details is what makes an already special wedding day truly magical. With an undeniable flair for bringing romance to life, John Gandy Events is perfectly poised to coordinate all of your matrimonial activities — leaving you free to delight in the day’s loving festivities completely worry free. Whether you’re aiming for rustic chic, Southern elegance or coastal charm, Gandy’s dedication to authentic style is unprecedented and his knowledge of a constantly evolving industry is utterly unmatched. PHOTOS BY Woodland Fields Photography

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

john gandy events

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

57

making it happen

john gandy events

58 2015

From lighting to seating, signage to silverware, every aspect of your wedding day warrants thought and care. Lucky for you, there’s already someone out there who has all the answers — John Gandy Events. Gandy’s team has curated thousands of hand-picked design elements from which to choose. With their eye for style and on-trend mindset, you’ll be sure to find exactly what you’re searching for, ensuring a beautiful, memorable day for not only you, but for your guests. PHOTOS BY Kay Meyer Photography

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

john gandy events

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

59

Bijoux

60 2015

Bijoux is one of the Emerald Coast’s most deliciously upscale dining and catering experiences. Appropriately nestled in the The Market Shops of Sandestin, the restaurant’s fresh, lush location makes it as well suited for a lively rehearsal dinner as it is an unforgettably elegant ceremony and reception destination. A truly one-of-a-kind venue, Bijoux is renowned for pairing Southern hospitality with fine French cuisine in a fun and intimate, yet sophisticated, atmosphere. And have you seen their wine list? Photos by Pure 7 Studios, Courtesy Flowers by Milk and Honey

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

Pure 7 Studios

Pure 7 Studios

Pure 7 Studios

Pure 7 Studios

Courtesy Flowers by Milk and Honey

making it happen

Pure 7 Studios

Courtesy Flowers by Milk and Honey

Pure 7 Studios

Bijoux

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

61

Amy Riley Photography

Dream Gowns

62 2015

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

Amy Riley Photography

Leah Langely Photography

Leah Langely Photography

making it happen

There are few mementos of your special day that will last the test of time — your dress is one of them. In years to come, tangible items such as this will become symbols of love to you and your family. At Dream Gowns, located in sunny Panama City, they’re skilled in selecting timeless silhouettes for brides and bridesmaids that complement the individual, instead of blindly adhering to fleeting trends. The staff’s eye for fit and flair and the vastness of their collection — with over 1,500 gowns to choose from — lands Dream Gowns in a league that is very much all its own. PHOTOS BY Leah Langley Photography,

Dream Gowns

Amy Riley Photography NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

63

64 2015

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

Paul Johnson Photography

Pure 7 Studios

Hello Miss lovely

Hello Miss lovely

Fisher’s Flowers & Events

Hello Miss lovely

Erin Nicole Photography

Hello Miss lovely& Events

Paul Johnson Photography

making it happen

Twinkling lights and natural, ethereal style is the cornerstone for one of the region’s most-loved event companies — Fisher’s Flowers and Events. What started as a dream of a roadside flower cart for the Santa Rosa Beach-based creative geniuses quickly blossomed into something much, much more. An innovative and exciting floral and event design firm, Fisher’s Flowers is described by clients as “organic, fresh and perfect for the space.” PHOTOS BY Erin Nicole Photography,

Fisher’s Flowers & Events

Hello Miss lovely, Paul Johnson Photography, Pure 7 Studios

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

65

Courtesy ANDREW'S CATERING

Andrew’s Catering

Restaurateur Andy Reiss’ mouthwatering menus have been a hallmark in downtown Tallahassee for over 40 years. Bringing decades of culinary experience to Andrew’s Catering, Andy and his professional staff are constantly developing new and exciting menus that seamlessly fuse the richness of flavor and texture to complement the overall spirit of any event. With a fulltime event planner and catering director on staff, the Andrew’s team will make sure every detail of the big day is planned and executed to perfection. As a full-service caterer serving North Florida, Andrew’s Catering is well versed in handling any size group and menu style, from fun, casual finger fare to gourmet plated dinners served with élan.

Photos By J&J WEddings, COURTESY ANDREW’S Catering

66 2015

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

Courtesy ANDREW'S CATERING

Courtesy ANDREW'S CATERING

Courtesy ANDREW'S CATERING

J & J WEddings

Courtesy ANDREW'S CATERING

making it happen

making it happen

Nestled in the shadows of Florida’s Capitol sits Andrew’s 228, an avant-garde dining option with a tasteful, metro vibe.

Perfect for rehearsal dinners and small receptions — and, when you need to sneak away, a romantic dinner for two — this venue specializes in Modern Southern Cuisine. Designed to accentuate intimate conversation, Andrew’s 228 offers several dining areas that allow private events to enjoy the celebration at hand. Cheers. Photos COURTESY ANDREW’S 228

Andrew’s 228

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

67

making it happen Andrews & Arnsdorff Realty The perfect post-wedding adventure is waiting for you on the shores of the Emerald Coast — and the real estate gurus at Andrews & Arnsdorff Realty Inc. can help you capture it. With a firm understanding of the market, a love of the local culture and a keen eye for beachfront beauty, these experienced brokers, agents and managers pride themselves on “selling a lifestyle, not just a property.” Of course, they’ll let you rent one, too. aaflrealty.com

Realty & Rentals

Stacy’s Makeup and More When the biggest day of your life rolls around, make sure you’re putting your best face forward. Stacy’s Makeup and More boasts 18 years of professional experience and brings to the region a dedication to making each client look and feel utterly beautiful.

With an artistic approach to hair and makeup, a bride can be assured she will feel “naturally glamorous.” After all, looking good and feeling good aren’t really all that different. stacysmakeupandmore.com

Makeup Artistry

VIP Star Spotlight The bridal party and honored guests can arrive in style with the help of VIP Star Spotlight, a limousine service in Tallahassee.

With 15 years of trusted experience in the industry, Spotlight’s gorgeous fleet of Rolls-Royce luxury vehicles will facilitate the perfect entrance to your city or country wedding, or any other special event. bit.ly/vipstar

Limo Service

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 that special day. From sugary white sand beaches and lush green lawns, to elegant stately ballrooms and serene bayfront terraces, Sandestin can make your perfect wedding a dream come true. sandestin.com/flwed

68 2015

Resort & Venue

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

making it happen Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa Kissed by the warm salty breezes of the Gulf, Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa 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, convivial atmosphere and gorgeous amenities. This resort can deliver it all, from pre-wedding rituals to post-nuptial relaxation.

HiltonSandestinBeach.com

Resort & Venue

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. And a recent expansion to the Image Center allows the entire wedding party to enjoy a spa-style bridesmaid’s lunch as well as beautifying together with hair services, manicures and pedicures.

SerenitybytheseaSpa.com

Beauty & Spa

The Coastal Ballroom The newest addition to the event spaces at Hilton Sandestin Beach is the Coastal Ballroom, completed in spring 2015. The 7,500-square-foot space, which can be divided into three smaller sections, features an open-ceiling concept — it’s black with “clouds” that can give the appearance of a romantic starry night during your wedding festivities. The resort has 60,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor venues, so you’re sure to find the perfect spot for your ceremony, reception and other wedding gatherings.

HiltonSandestinBeach.com

Venue

Seagar’s Prime Steaks and 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 fresh-from-the-Gulf seafood.

Seagar’s also features the largest wine list on the coast, with more than 600 labels to choose from.

Seagars.com

Restaurant & Catering

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

69

making it happen Madison Social We all know that wedding celebrations extend far beyond The Big Day. Madison Social offers brides a unique and modern setting for engagement parties, bridal showers, rehearsal dinners and post-wedding brunches. With private event space for up to 100 and full offsite catering and bartending services, our professional event planning staff will help you with every detail on your way to “I Do.” madisonsocial.com

Restaurant & Catering

Bijoux The fresh, eclectic flavor of Destin’s award-winning restaurant Bijoux is a delightful way to move any event to the next level. With catering for all styles of special soirees, the culinary masterminds at Bijoux can customize their exquisite Gulf and French-inspired menu to fit any ambiance and taste preference.

Plus, their extensive wine lists and pairing expertise provide the final touch to already delicious occasions. bijouxdestin.com

Venue & Catering

Russell Rainey, DMD You’ve heard the saying, “a picture’s worth a thousand words.”

On your wedding day, it may as well be worth a million. Make sure your smile is at its brightest with the help of the skilled professionals at Dr. Rainey’s office in Tallahassee. Your smile — and the smiles of your entire wedding party — can be camera ready with their gentle whitening techniques. And don’t forget about Invisalign, the clear alternative to braces! drrainey.com

Cosmetic Dentistry

Zuutto Delight in the moments of your wedding every day by transforming your favorite photos into works of art that will last a lifetime. Simply upload a photo and Zuutto will create gallery wrap edged, canvas-style pieces beautifully printed in full-color archival inks. Each canvas will include readyto-hang hardware and will be shipped to your door — all at an extremely agreeable price point designed to fit every budget. zuutto.com

70 2015

Keepsakes

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

making it happen Bud & Alley's Overlooking the Gulf of Mexico in Seaside, Bud & Alley’s Waterfront Restaurant set the standard for culinary excellence along Scenic 30A since its founding in 1986. Bud & Alley’s has recently established Bud & Alley’s Catering Company in Grayton Beach, and is now offering on-site and off-site catering for all occasions, special events, corporate events and weddings. budandalleys.com

Restaurant & Catering

Governors inn Timeless elegance, expert service and an impressive address await guests at The Governors Inn. A premier, boutique hotel in Tallahassee’s downtown district, the Inn — along with its 41 stately rooms and ample gathering spaces — is as seamlessly matched for bridal party accommodations when the entire family is involved as it is a historic honeymoon for two. Posh, preppy and full of Southern-style hospitality, this gem is a favorite of socialites and dignitaries alike. thegovinn.org

D D

Hotel & Venue

Mike’s Limousine Service

Double Decker Bus Florida Largest

charter

bus in t

We have a limousine for every special occasion!

he USA

!

Prevos

t deluxe

motor c

oach

56

passengers!

doubledeckerbusflorida.com | 850-251-6453 Tallahassee • Gainesville • Jacksonville • Miami • Naples • Orlando • Panama City • Pensacola • Tampa • West Palm Beach • Southern Alabama NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

71

Love

ceremonies • receptions • rehearsal dinners golf outings • bridal parties 4801 Highway 30A W | Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459 850.267.2305 | Vueon30a.com

All Photos Courtesy of Jubilee Photography or The Red Fly Studio

Bridal Registry • Gifts Wine • Furniture • Table Top Linens • Lamps • Fine Art Design Consultation • Shipping Available

Create your own oasis and surround yourself with what you

Love

72 2015

Distinctive, Timeless, Coastal Elegance for the Home

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

542 Harrison Avenue | Historic Downtown Panama City, FL 850.215.7542 | AvenueSea.com | avenueseapc@knology.net

Fisher’s Flowers is a boutique floral design firm specializing in weddings and special events. Our team tailors each design specific to the style and vibe of our clients. We have been grateful members of the 30A community since 2008.

fishersflowersandevents.com . 850.622.0056 416 S. County Hwy 393, Santa Rosa Beach . owners: Adam and Grove Fisher NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

73

Follow your heart ... to the Emerald Coast.

Beach Dreaming? We can help.

We understand the market. Regardless of whether you are buying, selling, relocating, vacationing or just looking, our experienced brokers, agents and managers live here and work here for the same reason you are looking: the beautiful beaches and wonderful service by people who really care. The Emerald Coast is not just a spectacular location, it’s a long forgotten lifestyle.

Andrews & Arnsdorff Realty, Inc. is a full service real estate brokerage firm established to provide the Northwest Florida community a fresh positive approach to real estate services with experienced brokers, agents and managers dedicated to accomplishing success concerning all your real estate needs.

74 2015

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

aaflrealty.com Main Office

Vacation Office - Seagrove on the Beach

850.267.0050

800.732.4768

2129 S. Co. Hwy 83, Unit B Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459

5311 E. Co. Hwy 30-A, Ste. 4 Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459

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 bistro and sleep soundly in one of our luxurious, Four Comfort Beds.

-Free Parking -Free Wi-Fi -Fitness Center

-Free shuttle service downtown, to all university campuses and airport

- Heated pool -Breakfast, lunch, and dinner served daily

-7,000+ sq. ft. of meeting space -Fully renovated in 2012

Four Points by Sheraton Tallahassee Downtown | www.FourPointsTallahasseeDowntown.com

316 W. Tennessee Street, Tallahassee Florida 32301

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

75

The SouthWood House

BEST GOLF COURSE

AN EXTRAORDINARY SETTING FOR YOUR SPECIAL DAY! Offering expansive amenities without sacrificing intimacy. We would love to share with you how our facilities, caring attitude and attention to detail align with your dreams.

3750 Grove Park Drive, Tallahassee, Florida 32311 • 850.942. GOLF (4653) • southwoodgolf.com

Welcomed like a friend, pampered like a guest Enjoy traditional Southern hospitality and personalized service just steps from the Capitol. The Governors Inn provides elegant rooms and suites with privacy and luxury located in the center of Tallahassee’s vibrant and historic downtown.

209 S. Adams St. | (850) 681-6855 | thegovinn.com 76 2015

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

Where amazing is unforgettable.

There’s nothing more romantic, more memorable or more private than a wedding aboard a gorgeous yacht on the Emerald Coast. The SOLARIS offers unparalleled value with in-house event planners, an award-winning culinary team and a variety of tailored wedding packages, beginning at $46 per person. Experience the best wedding venue in North Florida, six years running from the Knot, and the best wedding venue on the Emerald Coast, four years running as voted by the readers of Emerald Coast Magazine.

su n qu estcrui ses.com

|

850.650.2519

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

77

C

reating weddings & events of your dreams

overlooking the beach or anywhere!

~

A legendary tradition in Seaside, FL for 29 years

C AT E R I N G

B ud & Alley’s Catering is happy to book your rehearsal dinner, wedding, corporate event or party of any kind.

Choose from one of our beautiful beachfront locations in Seaside, FL – Bud & Alley’s or the Pizza Bar. We also specialize in offsite catering at any place of your choosing.

To design the event of your dreams, contact Rachel Forman at rachel@budandalleys.com or call 850.460.5802

Your Chariot 0 Awaits!

A Picture Perfect Wedding Venue

On your day of magical moments, let Capital City Pedicabs provide our fun + unique Marriage Carriage — a charming twist on wedding transportation!

Bridal Party Transportion Shuttle Service for Guests Transport from Wedding to Reception a Newlywed Ride to Honeymoon Suite Serving Tallahassee + the Emerald Coast 850.597.2276 · capitalcitypedicabs.com events@capitalcitypedicabs.com @ccpedicabsllc 78 2015

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

Fort Walton Beach, Florida • 850-243-9161 • ramadafwb.com

Celebrate in Salty Florida!

Franklin County scenic beaches · landmark churches · idyllic parks · historic bed & breakfasts beachfront accommodations · championship golf · catering and photography fresh seafood · fishing · boating · hiking · unique shops · restaurants

Beach photos by Rollstad Photography

Discover more at SaltyFlorida.com/wed

Inn photos by Mari’s Paradise Images

Apalachicola · St. George Island · Carrabelle · Alligator Point

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

79

80 2015

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

Making her dreams come true

1355 Market Street | (850) 906-9213 | tallahaSSeediaMondS.coM NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations 2015

81

resource guide Advertiser Index Andrews & Arnsdorff ������������������������������������������������������p. 68, 74 1732 W. County Rd. 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459 aaflrealty.com, (850) 267-0050 Andrew’s Catering �������������������������������������������������������������������p. 4, 5 228 S. Adams St., Tallahassee, FL 32301 andrewsdowntown.com, (850) 222-3444 Avenue Sea ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ p. 72 542 Harrison Ave., Panama City, FL 32401 avenuesea.com, (850) 215-7542 B-Boy Productions ����������������������������������������������������������������������p. 80 bboyproductions.com, (888) 825-0655 Bijoux ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������p. 14, 70 9375 Emerald Coast Pkwy., #22, Miramar Beach, FL 32550 bijouxdestin.com, (850) 622-0760 Bud and Alley’s Catering Company �������������������������������������������������������������p. 71, 78 2236 E. County Rd. 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459 budandalleys.com, (850) 460-5802 Capital City Pedicabs ���������������������������������������������������������������p. 78 capitalcitypedicabs.com, (850) 597-2276 Downtown Improvement Authority �����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������p. 30 106 E. Jefferson St., Tallahassee, FL 32301 sayidodowntown.com, (850) 224-3252 Dream Gowns ������������������������������������������� Inside Back Cover 619 Hwy 231, Panama City, FL 32405 shopdreamgowns.com, (850) 747-1362 Emerald Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau ������������������������������������������������������������������������������p. 3 1540 Miracle Strip Pkwy. SE Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548 emeraldcoastfl.com, (850) 651-7131 Fisher’s Flowers ����������������������������������������������������������������������������� p. 73 416 S. Hwy 393, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459 fishersflowersandevents.com, (850) 622-0056 Four Points by Sheraton ��������������������������������������������������������p. 75 316 W. Tennessee St., Tallahassee, FL 32301 fourpointstallahasseedowntown.com, (850) 422-0071 Franklin County Tourist Development Council ��������������������������������������������������������������p. 79 SaltyFlorida.com/wed, (866) 914-2068 Governors Inn ��������������������������������������������������������������������������p. 71, 76 209 S. Adams St., Tallahassee, FL 32301 thegovinn.com, (850) 681-6855 Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa ������������������������������������������������������������������p. 8, 69 4000 Sandestin Blvd. S, Miramar Beach, FL 32550 sandestinbeachhilton.com, (850) 267-9604 John Gandy Events ����������������������������Inside Front Cover 3463 Garber Dr., Tallahassee, FL 32303 johngandyevents.com, (850) 570-5999 Klassic Katering �������������������������������������������������������������������������� p. 6, 7 2207 Bannerman Road, Tallahassee, FL 32312 klassickatering.com, (850) 894-0423 Madison Social ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������p. 70 705 S. Woodward Ave., #101, Tallahassee, FL 32304 madisonsocial.com, (850) 894-6276 Mike’s Limo & Charter Bus ���������������������������������������������������p. 71 3109 W. Tennessee St., Tallahassee, FL 32304 doubledeckerbusflorida.com, (850) 251-6453 82 2015

Rainey, Russell B, DMD �������������������������������������������������p. 70, 74 221 E. 7th Ave, Tallahassee, FL 32303 drrainey.com, (850) 385-3700 Ramada Plaza Beach Resort ��������������������������������������������p. 78 1500 Miracle Strip Pkwy. SE Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548 ramadafwb.com, (850) 243-9161 ResortQuest by Wyndham Vacation Rentals �������������������������Back Cover 546 Mary Esther Cut-Off NW, #3 Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548 nwflweddings.com, (888) 412-6408 Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort ���������������������������������������������������������������� p. 11, 68 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy.

Miramar Beach, FL 32550 sandestin.com/flwed, (850) 267-6736 Shiloh Farm Chapel and Barn �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������p. 42 1500 Benjamin Chaires Rd., Tallahassee, FL 32317 shilohevents.com, (850) 766-5902 SouthWood Golf Club ��������������������������������������������������������������p. 76 3750 Grove Park Dr., Tallahassee, FL 32311 southwoodgolf.com, (850) 942-4653 Sunquest Cruises/Solaris ���������������������������������������������������� p. 77 P.O. Box 6948, Miramar Beach, FL 32550 sunquestcruises.com, (850) 650-2519 Stacy’s Makeup & More ����������������������������������������������������������p. 68 stacysmakeupandmore.com, (469) 867-0852 Tallahassee Diamond Center �������������������������������������������p. 81 1355 Market St, Tallahassee, FL 32312 tallahasseediamonds.com, (850) 906-9213 VIP Star Spotlight �������������������������������������������������������������������������p. 68 215 W. College Ave., Tallahassee, FL 32301 bit.ly/vipstar, (850) 345-7440 Vocelles | The Bridal Shoppe �������������������������������������������p. 48 1355 Market Street, Tallahassee, FL 32312 vocellesbridal.com, (850) 906-9213 Vue on 30a ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� p. 72 334 Golf Club Drive, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459 santarosaclub.com, (850) 267-2229 Zuutto ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������p. 70 zuutto.com

Photographer Index Alena Bakutis Photography ��������������������������������������������������p. 9 alenabakutis.com, (850) 778-5370 Amy Little Photography ���������������������������������������������������������p. 47 amylittlephotography.com, (850) 625-8670 Amy Riley Photography �����������������������������������������������p. 62, 63 amyrileyphotography.com, (850) 819-9037 Amy Susi Photography ������������������������������������������������ p. 28, 29 susiphotography.com, (850) 797-5144 Barefoot Beach Weddings ��������������������������������������������������p. 24 barefootweddings.net, (850) 244-9277 Black & Hue Photography ������������������������������������������������Cover blackandhueproject.com, (850) 443-4796 Brittnay Therese Photography ��������������������������������������p. 33 brittnaytherese.com, (850) 461-6327 Callie Gardiner Photography �������������������������������� p. 20, 21 calliegardiner.com, (850) 259-5841

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations

DEX Designs Photography ��������������������������������������������������p. 25 dexdesignsphotography.com, (850) 687-9575 Elizabeth Birdwell Photography ����������������������������������������������������������������������������p. 46, 47 elizabethbirdwell.com, (850) 544-1554 Elizabeth Davis Photography ������������������������������������������������������������������ p. 36-39, 43 elizabethdavisphoto.com, (850) 443-2956 Erin Nicole Photography ������������������������������������������������������p. 65 byerinnicole.com, (904) 345-0595 Footstone Photography ��������������������������������������������������������p. 46 footstonephotography.com, (352) 562-3066 Gwynemark Photography ���������������������������������������������������p. 45 gwynemarkphotography.com, (850) 376-3066 Hello Miss Lovely ������������������������������������������������������������������p. 64, 65 hellomisslovely.com, (850) 774-3041 J & J Weddings �����������������������������������������������������������p. 34, 35, 66 jandjweddings.com, (850) 933-6033 Jacqueline Ward Images ������������������������������������������������������p. 32 jacquelinewardimages.com, (850) 527-1205 Jan Ethridge Photography ���������������������������������������p. 22, 23 jcethridgephotography.com, (850) 758-0873 John Gallino Photography ��������������������������������������������������p. 55 johngallino.com, (201) 647-9161 Kansas Pitts Photography �����������������������������������������������������p. 15 kansaspitts.com, (850) 387-6016 Kay Meyer Photography ������������������������������������p. 31, 34-36, 39, 58, 59 kaymeyerphotography.com, (850) 894-4529 Leah Langley Photography ������������������������������������������������p. 63 leahlangley.com, (407) 506-8660 Lewis Johnson Photography ���������������������������������������������p. 41 lejphotography.com, (850) 583-0040 Mari Darr~Welch, Modern Photojournalist ��������������������������������������������������p. 9, 45 maridarrwelch.com, (850) 699-3403 Mi Amore Foto ������������������������������������������������������������������������p. 52, 53 miamorefoto.com, (904) 545-0432 Michael Allen Photography �������������������������������������p. 26, 27 michaelallenphotography.com, (931) 674-1115 Paul Johnson Photography ��������������������������������������������������������������������������� p. 64, 65 pauljohnsonphoto.com, (850) 832-4309 Pure 7 Studios ��������������������������������������������p. 9, 19, 60, 61, 64, pure7studios.com, (877) 865-PURE (7873) Red Stone Photos ��������������������������������������������������������������������������p. 21 redstonephotos.com, (850) 585-5535 Sonja Revells Photography ��������������������������������������������������p. 49 sonyarevellsphotography.com, (415) 913-9597 Steve Corbett Photography ������������������������������������p. 54, 55 stevecorbett.com, (850) 443-5980 Terri Smith Photography ��������������������������������������������p. 50, 54 terrismithphoto.com, (850) 321-5609 Woodland Fields Photography ����������������������������������������������������������������������������p. 56, 57 woodlandfieldsphotography.com, (850) 559-1095

850.747.1362 619 hwy. 231 Panama City, FL shoPdreamgowns.Com

Your perfect day, your way...

Have you been dreaming of a beach wedding with sugar-white sand and emerald green water as your backdrop? ResortQuest by Wyndham Vacation RentalsÂŽ is here to turn that dream into a reality! From private beach homes to luxurious Gulf-front condos, we provide beautiful accommodations, plus a variety of event space along Northwest Florida beaches. We even have partnerships with experienced wedding planners to make planning your special day stress-free.

What are you waiting for? Call us or visit our website today to book the wedding of your dreams on our Emerald Coast!

Call or visit us online for more information!

(888) 412-6408 \ NWFLWeddings.com Best Property Management Company

Best Vacation Rental Firm

Š2014 Wyndham Vacation Rentals North America, LLC. 14 Sylvan Way, Parsippany, NJ 07054. 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 USA.

#FollowUsToTheBeach 2009 - 2014

2013 & 2014

850 Magazine

works for us “We believe in 850 Magazine just like we believe in Tallahassee Downtown.”

Jay Revell, Executive Director, Tallahassee Downtown Improvement Authority 850 Magazine advertiser since 2010

Tallahassee Downtown is “always in session,” and we mean business. Today, we are redefining the term “capital investment,” striving to bring new business to Downtown and providing opportunities for the entrepreneurial spirit to thrive in the heart of our city. Over the past seven years more than $450 million has been invested in our Downtown. It is our job to tell that story, and 850 Magazine is the cornerstone of our messaging efforts.

850BusinessMagazine.coM (850) 878-0554

850 Business Magazine

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

133

Begin with a strong foundation.

Development: residential, commercial, industrial Financing assistance, conventional or private Partnerships and joint ventures Site selection/property acquisition • Planning/permitting Construction services • Property management

134

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

850businessmagazine.com

remaccllc.com • 850.309.7368 820 A Park Avenue, Tallahassee

DEAL ESTATE It’s Just Business

THE HENDERSON, A SALAMANDER BEACH & SPA RESORT

RENDERING COURTESY OF SALAMANDER© HOTELS & RESORTS

DESTIN

» Dunavant Enterprises Inc. has started construction on The Henderson, a Salamander Beach & Spa Resort, in Destin.

The multi-phase project, slated for completion in spring 2016 and estimated to cost more than $300 million, will center around a 171-room beachfront hotel. Future phases will add 10,000 square feet of indoor event space, including a dedicated meeting wing, a 5,400-square-foot ballroom, a junior ballroom, private boardrooms and nearly 30,000 square feet of outdoor group options, including beachfront function locations. The resort hotel itself is projected to create more than 1,557 direct and indirect jobs, including 677 construction jobs and 261 staff positions at the hotel.

FORT WALTON BEACH

» Choctaw Plaza, a 93,000-square-foot shopping center on Racetrack Road, is up for sale — for $10.9 million. With

anchor stores like Big Lots and Dollar General, the center (built in 1984) is nearly fully leased.

OKALOOSA ISLAND

»

Fun is on the horizon with two new amusement parks under construction on the island. A dinosaur theme will dominate Wild Willy’s, which will have everything from miniature golf to zip lining at its location next to the Emerald Coast Convention Center on U.S. 98. A putting miniature of the Augusta National golf course will be the centerpiece of Okaloosa National on Santa Rosa Boulevard.

PENSACOLA

» The largest West Marine between Jacksonville and Texas has opened its doors at 5303 N. Davis Highway. The new location is 20,000 square feet and includes features such as a stand up paddleboard and kayak showroom.

TALLAHASSEE

»

The new 4 Rivers Smokehouse restaurant in Tallahassee opened in March at 1817 Thomasville Road, in Miracle Plaza.

Based in Winter Park, Florida, 4 Rivers is famous for its Texas-smoked beef brisket and barbecue. The Miracle Plaza location boasts a Sweet Shop bakery selling “made-from-scratch” desserts.

» The DoubleTree By Hilton Hotel on North Adams Street is undergoing major renovations, inside and out. IB Tallahassee LLC, whose principal representatives previously bought and rejuvenated the Hotel Duval, is refurbishing the hotel’s marble façade as part of its project to rebrand it as a boutique hotel; other external changes to the 16-story building and its surrounding area include metered parking, outdoor seating, a covered driveway for drop-offs and a plaza for pedestrians.

Compiled by Linda Kleindienst

850 Business Magazine

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

135

DEAL ESTATE Just Sold

A Unique Structure Finds Perfect Owner

By Rebecca Padgett

136

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

850businessmagazine.com

of open and available space. Two of these acres consist of 56 paved parking spots.

The location is ideal for customers with it being in close proximity to I-10 and Capital Circle. Also in the area is Commonwealth Centre, home to General Dynamics, FedEx, Infinity Software and more.

With these very specific amenities the search was on for the perfect buyer that could utilize such a unique property. Realtor Stewart Proctor was able to find the perfect match with Ward International.

“It was priced right, and we found the user who could make use of such a unique property. Ward Trucks will be a perfect fit and a great neighbor to the Commonwealth area,” said Proctor. n

Quick Look Address: 3101 Commonwealth Blvd.

List Price: $1,300,000 Sold Price: $1,000,000 Square Feet: 26,532 Contact: Stewart Proctor, CCIM Structure Commercial Real Estate (850) 656-6555

STEWART PROCTOR/CCIM STRUCTURE COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE

Some buildings are built with a specific purpose in mind. The structure sitting at 3101 Commonwealth Blvd. is one of those buildings.

Originally, the space was occupied by Waste Management of Leon County Inc. The building is a concrete structure with many windows and a spacious amount of office space.

The main focus of the building is the 8,000-squarefoot repair shop and the 6,000-square-foot covered work area. These spaces are ideal for extensive repair and handyman work.

Another high selling point was the three service bays with 20-ft. roll-up doors, overhead service lines and a full vehicle wash down bay. The entire compound is located on 10 acres, allowing plenty

DEAL ESTATE Just Listed

Ideal Location in the Heart of Pensacola

By Rebecca Padgett

Every now and then you come across a building that seems to have it all. This space on South Palafox Street is one of those. The street itself is reason enough to want your business location on it.

Palafox Street is a premier location for dining, retail and nightlife. The American Planning Association announced it as one of the 10 Great Streets in the United States for 2013. This street was also recognized as one that adds value and significant economic growth in the community.

As a great number of people flock to this area throughout the year it is an absolute ideal location for a business investor or developer. A retail shop or restaurant would nestle in nicely in this already progressive area. With 4,500 square feet and 0.35 acres it has suitable space for a booming business prospect.

Address: 202 South On this busy street it is Palafox Street sometimes a hassle to find List Price: $1,750,000 ideal parking locations, but

SONNY GRANGER & CHRIS PALMER/SPERRY VAN NESS SOUTHLAND COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE

Quick Look

Square Feet: 4,500 this property provides 21 parksquare feet ing spaces specifically dedicated to it. This is one of the few Contact: Sonny Granger & Chris Palmer, Sperry locations on Palafox that proVan Ness Southland vides such abundant parking.

Commercial Real Estate This property can be bought (850) 434-7500 as is or can be made to fit the needs of a specific business, as there is significant possibility for redevelopment. The size and zoning of the building allow for the investor or developer to build vertically or redevelop as a whole.

Sperry Van Ness realtors Sonny Granger and Chris Palmer predict great success for this property because of its many valuable characteristics.

“This represents an incredible opportunity to invest in an irreplaceable location in the heart of booming downtown Pensacola’s shopping, dining and nightlife. The property currently produces substantial cash flow but has the tremendous upside potential for a complete redevelopment as well,” said Palmer. n

Excellence in Business and Leadership Conference The Santa Rosa County Chamber of Commerce is excited to host the 2nd Annual Excellence in Business and Leadership Conference Thursday, April 16th at the Hilton on Pensacola Beach.

Conference Admission: $75.00

Leah Taylor

Bob Murphy

Ted Traylor

Pete Shinnick

Bentina Terry

Judith Bense

The Region’s Premier Leadership Conference

www.excellenceinbusinessconference.com 850 Business Magazine

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

137

EMERALD COAST CORRIDOR

Coastal Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa + Walton Counties

Shrimp Tales

Why Gulf Coast shrimp dominate our waters and our menus By Ashley Kahn Salley

138

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

850businessmagazine.com

A PENSACOLA TRADITION Frank Patti carries on the family business started by his father, Capt. Joe Patti (inset), by importing seafood from across the globe. While Joe Patti’s Seafood Company has retired its commercial fleet because of the high costs to operate, the Captain Joe still stands watch over the harbor.

JOE PATTI’S SEAFOOD COMPANY

A

quick search of the Internet, and you will discover that recipes for shrimp are nearly as abundant as the crustacean itself.

But this was not always the case.

Frank Patti runs Pensacola-based Joe Patti’s Seafood Company, the establishment that made a name and a living for his family dating back to the 1930s. His parents, both of Italian fishing stock, devoted their lives to the industry before anyone wanted shrimp for anything other than bait.

Their relationship with shrimp developed quite naturally. When Frank’s mama became pregnant, she told his daddy he needed to find work that would keep him close to home. So he gave up his month-long fishing trips and bought a small boat he called The Babe, after his newborn son.

Frank’s daddy, Joe, didn’t know a thing about shrimp, so he turned to his father-inlaw to learn the (quite literal) ropes. They built a little shotgun house, where mama sold fish, shrimp, bread and milk off the back porch.

“Daddy caught the shrimp, and I would go with him. The boat was only 30 feet long, with a little cabin and a gasoline engine — clutch and all — it wasn’t a marine engine. It was ‘make do’,” Patti recalls. “All the shrimpers had something like that. Small boats, all hand rigged. And he caught so many doggone shrimp he would fill up the boat. From that point on, he never ceased.”

Photo by MATT BURKE

850 Business Magazine

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

139

MATT BURKE

FAMILIAR LANDMARK Joe Patti’s has been a staple on the Pensacola Bay waterfront since the 1930s.

e most advanced eye care the world has to offer...

Everything we do, we do with Vision!

Now performing Dropless Cataract Surgery.

Save up to $600 on Cataract Surgery by going Dropless!

FROM BAIT TO PLATE But there was no money in selling shrimp for bait.

So Joe came up with an idea that he would head the big shrimp and freeze the tails. He took them down the road to Mobile, Alabama, where a new process was catching on, yielding Individually Quick Frozen (IQF) shrimp. Now, Joe Patti had shrimp year-round, when no one else did.

He believed in shrimp, and World War II proved him right. In those days, no one knew about shrimp except in New York. A Savannah-based Italian fellow by the name of Cicerone introduced it to the government, and the rest is history.

“The war came along and the military needed fuel. They wanted his shrimp boats to patrol the east coast, and in turn they would buy their diesel fuel from him,” Patti explains. “He agreed on the condition that the government would buy his shrimp and introduce it to the servicemen. That’s how Americans started eating shrimp.”

Cicerone’s mama lived in Pensacola, and that’s how Joe Patti’s Seafood became the Gulf Coast source for shrimp. It was a small community that would grow in time, as snapper died away due to fishing regulations and shrimp became the mainstay of the Gulf of Mexico.

Custom Vue™ Blade-Free LASIK & THE AREA’S ONLY LenSx™ Custom Cataract Surgery

Laser

1st In Florida

e Eye Center of North Florida Your LASIK & Cataract Surgery Center of Excellence. www.eyecarenow.com | 850-784-3937 140

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

850businessmagazine.com

Dr. Paul Garland

Dr. Bret Fisher

World-Class Surgery. World-Class Surgeons.

TODAY’S CATCH Patti’s fleet of 16 boats is now retired, but the Captain Joe stands watch over the harbor just outside the family business. Company vessels are too costly to operate; today, it’s a family man’s job.

It would take 30,000 gallons, or upwards of $100,000, for Frank Patti to fill the “Captain Joe” with fuel and oil. After that, 40 percent of the profit goes to the crew. “You just can’t make it, you can’t catch enough shrimp,” Patti says.

With new industry standards, Patti now imports shrimp from all over the country and as far away as Argentina and the Antarctic.

Still, he believes Gulf shrimp are the best.

SEAFOOD HEAVEN At Joe Patti’s market, customers wait in line to select fresh seafood from across the country — and as far away as the Antarctic and Argentina. But owner Frank Patti says Gulf shrimp are still the best in the world.

MATT BURKE

IS FRESH REALLY FRESH? At that time, shrimp were headed and turned into ice bins. They could stay out for only 15 days, and it was a job to keep them that long. Joe Patti had the first freezer boat to catch shrimp and freeze them on board in the IQF style.

Using IQF, shrimp are caught, headed, washed and placed in sacks to be put in the tank, where they are frozen solid within seven minutes. You’d have to cook them onboard the vessel to be any fresher.

The Patti family began building modern shrimp boats and had 16 super trawlers at one time. “Then Daddy told me I had to stay in the shop instead of shrimping,” he recalls. “I said it wasn’t big enough to grow, and he said, ‘You make it like you want it.’ ” So Frank transformed Joe Patti’s from the tin-and-driftwood shack on the bay to the powerhouse it is today. Of course, nothing ever stays the same. As fuel prices rose, oil spills ran boats out of the Northern Gulf and restaurants turned to imported product, the big seafood markets had to change with the times.

“I just love our shrimp,” Patti beams. “I was born into shrimp.”

Florida’s Executive Chef and Culinary Ambassador Justin Patrick Timineri also touts the “Fresh From Florida” resource and sympathizes with industry leaders during these changing times.

“Frank Patti has been in this business a long time. Very few — likely no — seafood companies can be compared,” Timineri says.

“He is an intelligent and quite colorful man, one-of-a-kind. Fuel, labor and the cost of keeping boats afloat are common issues we hear about everywhere.”

THE EVOLUTION OF THE SHRIMP COCKTAIL Once upon a time, the only way you’d find shrimp on a menu was the ubiquitous Shrimp Cocktail. Today, shrimp can be found on almost any menu in any cooking style — from Cajun to Mexican, Asian to Italian and beyond. (Just think of Bubba in the film, “Forrest Gump”: “You can fry ’em, sauté ’em, stick ’em in a stew … ”) “Shrimp cocktail is a classic menu item that anyone not completely familiar with Florida seafood can feel comfortable with ordering,” Timineri says.

“Florida Gulf shrimp are one of the most common seafood species available. Their sweet flavor combined with their modest price and limitless versatility make them a welcome addition for any menu.”

Not only are they versatile, they’re sustainable. Here, a short science lesson: According to Timineri, there are five

species of food shrimp harvested from Florida’s waters: brown, pink, royal red, white and rock shrimp.

Each of these species is prevalent at different depths, salinity levels and locations around the state.

Shrimp can be found in near-shore waters and estuaries and use the estuaries as nursery areas.

They migrate in and out of Florida’s estuaries, mainly during growing and spawning periods.

The agencies regulating the harvesting of shrimp in Florida’s Gulf and South Atlantic waters have established fishery management plans to protect the resource.

As to why so many restaurants insist on purchasing imported shrimp when we possess the natural resource in our backyard, Timineri and others “in the know” remain puzzled.

“The benefits to eating local are myriad. We do not know the rationale for purchasing imported shrimp beyond the financial one,” he says. “These imported farm-raised shrimp are typically lower in price and can be processed and packaged in a more uniform size than wild-caught shrimp. We always recommend purchasing shrimp fresh from Florida, as there is no comparison when it comes to taste.”

In fact, our executive chef’s favorite thing about living and cooking in Florida is the amount of year-round access to local and regionally grown or caught fresh fruit, vegetables and seafood.

“I know that when I buy anything harvested or caught in Florida, it is safe, fresh, flavorful and naturally healthy,” Timineri says.

850 Business Magazine

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

141

BAY CORRIDOR

Panama City, Panama City Beach + Bay County

Urban Planning airfield, and was named Atkinson Field. In the late 1930s, Panama City and Bay County commissioners worked together to expand the airport by adding a small passenger terminal and two intersecting runways, renaming it Fannin Field after the mayor at the time. The airport was renamed again in the late 1940s as the Panama City Bay County Airport and later earned the designation as an international airport. After undergoing a major redevelopment in 1995, the airport was relocated in 2011 and the land was sold to the St. Andrew Bay Land Company for $52 million in the same year.

“It’s something,” says Panama City Mayor Greg Brudnicki. “It’s really exciting for Panama City as the largest single development going on in Florida right now. The city has done everything we needed to do to get things going, and we look forward to seeing it progress.” The project is likely the largest urban infill project under development, according to St. Andrew Bay Land.

Principals from California-based HomeFed Corp., the parent company of St. Andrew Bay Land, also planned the beach community of Rosemary Beach in Walton

HOW ‘SWEET’BAY IT IS A master planned community being built on the site of the old Bay County airport, SweetBay will offer housing, shopping, eateries and office space — along with plenty of green space and water access that will be available to residents of the community and the county. The first homes are expected to be ready this spring while a K-5 charter school is already operating.

142

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

850businessmagazine.com

ST. ANDREW BAY LAND COMPANY

Y

ears before the Panama CityBay County International Airport closed in 2010, the St. Andrew Bay Land Company in Panama City had its eye on the land, planning SweetBay, Panama City’s first masterplanned waterfront village — a pedestrian-friendly new home community with restaurants, retail and recreation.

“It is rare to find 700 acres of developable land in our area these days, and the beauty of the bay and natural landscape make it a great place for this type of community,” says Holly Pituch, marketing coordinator for St. Andrew Bay Land Company. “We felt like it would be a great thing for Panama City to have access to the beauty of this area and the waterfront. The goal is to create an environment where people have a sense of community. As the community grows, residents will be able to walk to school and to the store or just walk and bike around the neighborhood.”

The property was previously owned as a private field by the J.B. Atkinson Jr. family, who donated the land in 1932 to the Panama City Chamber of Commerce to be used as an

FLORIDA AERIAL SERVICES, INC

Panama City’s first master-planned community is rolling along By Wendy O. Dixon

850 Business Magazine

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

143

May 14 - May 26, 2015 Tallahassee, Florida

Join fellow foodies in Tallahassee and enjoy the best culinary delights and live entertainment the capital city offers. From indulgent delicacies to down-home favorites, the area’s finest restaurants will serve up special deals and meals.

800.628.2866 | VisitTallahassee.com 144

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

850businessmagazine.com

ST. ANDREW BAY LAND COMPANY

University Academy

“A GREAT DEAL OF CONSIDERATION AND THOUGHT HAS GONE INTO THIS PLANNING PROCESS. IT’S ABOUT DELIVERING A HEALTHY COMMUNITY AND THE QUALITY OF LIFE THAT COMES WITH THAT. THE DEVELOPMENT TEAM IS MADE UP OF PEOPLE WHO CARE ABOUT HOMEOWNERS GETTING THE BEST EXPERIENCE POSSIBLE.” HOLLY PITUCH, MARKETING COORDINATOR FOR ST. ANDREW BAY LAND COMPANY County, a luxury resort town with many seasonal homeowners. SweetBay is planned primarily for permanent residents, with home prices anticipated from the mid$200,000s to the $400,000s.

The waterfront community of SweetBay is set on the 700-acre former airport site, allowing for plenty of room for growth as the neighborhoods take shape during a 15- to 20-year projected build-out. Construction for phase one began in early 2014, and the first homes will be available for purchase this spring.

Homes will reflect Coastal Traditional and Craftsman styles of architecture. The first phase also includes five community parks; several will include playground equipment and space for picnicking and outdoor events

while others will be designated open green space. A community pool is also planned in the first neighborhood.

A walkable, mixed-use community, SweetBay will be the first of its kind in Panama City. A vibrant town center is planned for a later phase, including a grocery store, retail shops, eateries and office space. Future plans also include hiking trails and paths along the waterfront, community pools and other neighborhood amenities.

Set on land made available by the St. Andrew Bay Land Company, University Academy is a free public K-5 charter school that opened in the renovated airport terminal building in 2014. The award-winning school plans to add middle school

classrooms for the upcoming school year.

Residents of SweetBay can be placed on a priority list for charter school attendance.

Preservation of the natural beauty of the land and surrounding water is a primary focus in the community’s design, say the planners. Seventy-three acres have already been preserved through a conservation easement encompassing much of approximately 5 miles of bay frontage.

“A great deal of consideration and thought has gone into this planning process,” marketing coordinator Pituch says.

“It’s about delivering a healthy community and the quality of life that comes with that. The development team is made up of people who care about homeowners getting the best experience possible.”

When the seven phases of development are completed, SweetBay is envisioned to have approximately 3,000 single-family and multifamily homes and 700,000 square feet of retail and commercial space in the town center.

“While it’s difficult to project the number of jobs created over the life of such a large project, we anticipate over 400 jobs to be created over the first phase of residential development alone,” says Jacob Fish, director of development. “We believe SweetBay has tremendous potential to not only create jobs for local residents but also for those who want to relocate to this wonderful part of Florida.” n

850 Business Magazine

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

145

CAPITAL CORRIDOR

Gadsden, Jefferson + Leon Counties

History and Diversification: Hallmarks of Boyd Farms Allen Boyd plans for the next generation to keep a legacy alive

By Lazaro Aleman

F

rom the second-floor office of a building that at ground level houses heavy farm equipment, former Congressman Allen Boyd looks out on fields of cotton, peanut and seeded grass stretching to a far-wooded horizon.

“Here’s part of the farm,” he says.

A fifth-generation Jefferson County farmer and self-described “recovering public servant,” Boyd returned to the family farm business after losing his bid for reelection to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2010. At that point he had served 22 consecutive years in public office — eight as a Florida legislator and 14 as the 2nd Congressional District representative. Today a lobbyist who maintains a presence in Washington, D.C., Boyd more and more RESTING PLACE is spending time on his The Boyd Family Cemetery hold representatives of several generations. deep-rooted family farm.

146

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

850businessmagazine.com

Photos by MATT BURKE

ALL IN THE FAMILY Allen Boyd, on the road to the home of his greatgreat-grandfather John Finlayson purchased in 1835, west of Boyd Family Farms.

850 Business Magazine

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

147

is your local business Internet and phone provider

• LocaLLy owned and operated • no auto attendant • business teLephone and internet service • Long distance • teLephone system consuLting • fiber optics • hurricane-proof data faciLity for coLLocation • web and emaiL hosting

2012 technoLogy business of the year winner

recipient: electronet

3 4 1 1 C a p i ta l M e d i C a l B lv d . ta l l a h a s s e e , F l | 2 2 2 . 0 2 2 9 | w w w. e l e C t r o n e t. n e t 148

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

850businessmagazine.com

“WE WERE ROW CROPPERS AND CATTLE GROWERS AND REALIZED WE WERE SUSCEPTIBLE TO EXTERNAL FACTORS THAT DID US ECONOMIC DAMAGE, PRIMARILY THE WEATHER. SO WE WENT INTO TWO OR THREE OTHER BUSINESSES, AND SOD’S THE ONE THAT STUCK.” ALLEN BOYD, MAJORITY OWNER, BOYD SOD FARM “My great-great-grandfather John Finlayson came here about 1835 and settled, not on this farm, but on our home place right to the west, where I grew up and the family cemetery is located,” Boyd says. “My father bought this property in 1981, and about 25 years ago I moved my office here because we started the sod operation and it was a place where customers could come.”

An integral component of Boyd Family Farms Inc., of which Boyd is majority owner, Boyd Sod Farm specializes in centipede, El Toro Zoysia and Empire Zoysia, different textured turfgrasses that it sells by the roll, slab or pallet and delivers onsite or makes available for customer pickup. The business mostly serves the Tallahassee,

Thomasville and Valdosta areas but on occasion has delivered to golf courses as far south as Miami.

Boyd credits older brother Hines with starting the sod business in the late 1980s, during one of the periods when legislative duties took him away from the farm.

“We were row croppers and cattle growers and realized we were susceptible to external factors that did us economic damage, primarily the weather,” Boyd says.

“So we went into two or three other businesses, and sod’s the one that stuck.”

Heavily dependent on housing starts, which it tracks, the sod farm’s fortunes ebb and flow with the ups and downs of the housing market.

850 Business Magazine

PROTECTED

BY VARIETY Boyd Family Farms has diversified, growing sod in addition to cattle farming and row cropping.

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

149

“When the recession hit in 2007, the business went in the tank,” Boyd says.

Now that the economy is improving and housing starts are increasing, though, the operation is once again gearing up for expansion.

Even when sod sales stall, however, the farm’s diversification — in terms of its varied products (i.e. peanuts, soybean, cattle, etc.) — protects it against any one market downturn, all the while allowing for better and year-round utilization of the land. Diversification, moreover, has been a longstanding tradition.

“I wouldn’t say diversification is unusual, but it’s certainly not the norm,” Boyd says. “Most farmers don’t want to fool with cattle.

Livestock require a different level of management expertise.”

All told — sod and cattle lands included — Boyd Family Farms encompasses about 4,000 acres, counting family-owned, leased and partnership-held properties.

“It’s a complex business structure that involves a number of entities,” Boyd explains. “I’ve got a partner in the cattle operation

“I WOULDN’T SAY DIVERSIFICATION IS UNUSUAL, BUT IT’S CERTAINLY NOT THE NORM. MOST FARMERS DON’T WANT TO FOOL WITH CATTLE. LIVESTOCK REQUIRE A DIFFERENT LEVEL OF MANAGEMENT EXPERTISE.” ALLEN BOYD

150

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

850businessmagazine.com

and one who does the row cropping, and we do the sod operation through our own company.”

Inherent in the stewardship of a family operation with a 180-year-old history is a sense of heritage that compels consideration of its preservation and transition to the next generation.

Boyd is sensitive to the obligation and the dynamics that can break up such enterprises. To date, he has no apparent successor, his three grown children showing scant interest in the business.

Meanwhile, a host of relatives with personal and professional lives far removed from the farm share ownership of the land. A concern of Boyd’s is that one of these far-flung owners will one day decide to cash in their chips.

“Then you’ve got a fight, because someone wants to sell and somebody doesn’t,” Boyd says. “That’s a normal scenario with family properties.”

One solution he has devised to combat this potential is to keep the various stakeholders engaged in the enterprise.

“You can’t bring everybody into the business; it’s not big enough,” Boyd says. “But there’s an element called recreation that’s critically important to most people nowadays, particularly to those who live in cities and have any kind of background in the country, woods or a farm.”

Hence the annual get-togethers.

“It’s the biggest event of the year for our family,” Boyd says.

“Everyone returns and we spend the weekend together in retreat, hunting, camping or whatever it might be.”

MAY 19, 2015

The affair also includes lessons in pine tree management, sod growing, cattle husbandry and other aspects of the business.

“You try to make sure they’re connected to the land,” Boyd says.

“Then, hopefully, someone in New York won’t up and say one day, ‘I have an asset down there worth a million. I’ll sell it and buy me a beach place or go to Europe.’ ” Giving minority owners a voice in the operation is also part of the strategy.

“People who have interest in a piece of property want to know they have input into its management,” Boyd says. “You know the person with the largest share makes the calls, but he ought not to run roughshod over minority owners.”

Cognizant of these issues since he first returned to the farm in 1971, following college and his Vietnam military service (his intention then was to take up farming full time, before the political bug bit him), Boyd, now 69, began seriously addressing the transition upon receipt of his AARP card and realization that he had no successor.

“The worst is to delay until your deathbed and then think, when I’m gone, all hell’s going to break loose,” he says. “You get a bunch of lawyers involved, no one wins.

“So I spend a lot of time planning and setting in place the structure for the next generation, to ensure my great-great-grandfather’s legacy endures.”

All the while, he’s enjoying life outside the Beltway.

“It’s good to be back on the farm,” Boyd says. n

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

WSRE JEAN & PAUL AMOS PERFORMANCE STUDIO PENSACOLA STATE COLLEGE 1000 COLLEGE BOULEVARD free admission wsre.org/speakers

PENSACOLA

WSRE PRESENTS:

RORY KENNEDY Photo credit: Lyndie Benson

ACADEMY AWARD-NOMINATED AND EMMY AWARD-WINNING PRODUCER; PRODUCER/DIRECTOR OF THE ACADEMY AWARD-NOMINATED DOCUMENTARY, “LAST DAYS IN VIETNAM”

PBS for the Gulf Coast

4684-0115 EC HP ad.indd 1

850 Business Magazine

|

2/9/15 10:33 APRIL – MAY 2015 151 | AM

I-10 CORRIDOR

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

FROM MILTON TO MILTON Patrick and Robbie Ropella moved from Milton, Wisconsin, to Milton, Florida, where their highly specialized executive search firm is thriving and the weather is warm.

152

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

850businessmagazine.com

Photos by MATT BURKE

The Company You Call to Find the Needle in a Haystack The Ropella Group finds candidates for highly specialized jobs By Laura Bradley

I

entrepreneurial. He approached recruiting firms for interf you’ve ever used a Tide detergent pod, or a host views, and they gave him the nudge that sent him to of other consumer products, there’s a good chance where he’s landed today.

The Ropella Group, a company based in Milton, has “They started to say, ‘You know, you like sales, and this is touched your life. They’re the guys who find the sales. Recruiting is selling a service and selling yourself to perfect candidates for jobs that are so specialized, only a the people you’re recruiting,’ ” Ropella said. “Sure enough, handful of people in the world could do them well. And 30 years later, here I am.” because they do what they do, innovative products such Ropella moved from downtown Milwaukee to downas Transitions lenses exist. Patrick Ropella was the one town Chicago, where he worked at a high-end corporate who found the perfect researcher for PPG Industries as it search firm before going into business tried to develop airplane windows that tint for himself. The Ropella Group moved to as pilots fly facing the sun.

Founded in Chicago in Wisconsin so that Ropella and his wife “We really specialize in needle-in-a-hay1987, The Ropella Group and business partner, Robbie Ropella, stack searches,” Ropella said. “The types of specializes in finding top candidates for highly could raise their family outside the city. In searches we do, often you’re lucky if there specialized jobs around Milton, Wisconsin, they raised their two are 10 people or 20 people in the world who the world. Since moving boys, along with some horses. But the cold are really A quality, versus B or C candidates operations to Milton in Santa Rosa County, the weather, mixed with caring for the horses, who can do this job.” company has been able got to be a constant pest. Patrick Ropella’s The Ropella Group has industry searches to aggressively expand, and is now considered nephew was getting his wings in Milton, down to a science: It developed a 12-step one of the top search Florida, and had grown to love the area. process for identifying employer priorities, firms for chemical After some nudging from the kids, and a finding candidates who fit the bill and then industry recruits. six-month search for land to build a ranch, selecting the perfect fit from the bunch. The about 18 years ago the Ropella family process works for all of the industries it serves, relocated from Milton, Wisconsin, to Milton, Florida. which cover everything from consumer products to pharma Although they had to give up the horses after their sons to chemicals. The company is especially well recognized for went off to college, the Ropellas still love the area. its work in the chemicals industry, for which it has grown “On one hand, it’s still oak trees and pine trees, just like the world’s largest database of executives and contacts.

Wisconsin, but on the other hand, it’s just 30 minutes to Patrick Ropella first started out in sales almost 30 years the Gulf, and your palm trees and hibiscus trees are right ago in Milwaukee. After a while, he was looking for his around the corner,” Ropella said. next step — something in sales, perhaps something more

850 Business Magazine

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

153

The key to The Ropella Group’s success in finding the right fit for any job is its 12-step process, which is divided into three stages. In Stage One, the client and The Ropella Group set their expectations and then proceed in rounding up suitable candidates, vetting them based on how well they align with the clients’ most important must-haves. In Stage Two, they interview FINDING THE the best candidates, PERFECT FIT and Stage Three is the Specializing in hiring and onboarding the chemical process. The Ropella industry, The Ropella Group has Group relies on behavgrown the world’s largest database ioral interviewing — of executives and asking candidates about contacts. the nature of their participation in various jobs and projects, rather than simply the outcomes — to see which candidates tend to create success.

Robbie Ropella explained that often in the industries they work in, projects are operated by teams, rather than an individual. But within those groups, only one or two people tend to take the reins and push the project to success. Behavioral interviewing “helps us differentiate who’s the leader within that team, as opposed to who was a participant,” she said.

It might seem unlikely that an executive search firm that works with clients around the world, including Nike and Dow Chemical, would be based in a small Florida town. But the Ropellas have found that on top of having better weather, the move to Florida made perfect business sense. Technology and smartphones allow business owners to get their work done anywhere, even on the go. The Ropellas have been able to travel the world, actively attending conferences and client meetings, while still keeping operations running via smartphone. This flexibility in workplace location also means that when deciding where to expand their business, the Ropellas could ignore the old rules of sticking to major metropolitan areas and move to Florida, where they enjoy a lower cost of living, have no state income tax to pay and have a state government that works to help businesses grow.

“There’s a reason why Florida and Texas are the strongest, fastest-growing job creators in the country,” Patrick Ropella said. It also doesn’t hurt that they live 15 minutes from an airport that never shuts down because of

154

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

850businessmagazine.com

“WE REALLY SPECIALIZE IN NEEDLE-INA-HAYSTACK SEARCHES. THE TYPES OF SEARCHES WE DO, OFTEN YOU’RE LUCKY IF THERE ARE 10 PEOPLE OR 20 PEOPLE IN THE WORLD WHO ARE REALLY A QUALITY, VERSUS B OR C CANDIDATES WHO CAN DO THIS JOB.” PATRICK ROPELLA, CHAIRMAN, CEO & CMO OF THE ROPELLA GROUP freezing or ice, where they can arrive and hop on a plane within a half hour. Since moving to Florida, their business has expanded to almost 35 employees and counting.

But, like every business decision, there are also drawbacks: Many people who grow up in the area tend to leave to pursue higher education elsewhere and don’t come back.

This makes it hard for firms like The Ropella Group that also compete with big credit unions for similarly specialized personnel.

Luckily, as a recruiting firm, The Ropella Group knows a thing or two about how to find clients outside their local network: To find their own recruits, they use the same steps and techniques they employ to find other companies’ hires.

It can be a challenge at times to match the right candidates with the right company; working with Nike was especially challenging because the company wanted many top materials scientists who initially had no interest in working for a tennis shoe company. But overcoming those challenges and making the perfect match is the most valuable part of the job, Robbie Ropella said.

“Once you get somebody into a company like Nike and they can put that on their résumé, and it’s changed their life, and you’ve helped a company the size of Nike really implement talent, it’s just a win-win situation all around,” she said, adding later, “It’s just the best dream job that anyone could possibly have.”

Mike Olivella

Meet YouR Match

Robby Ginepri Winner of the 2014 French Open Wild Card

attend the final tournament of the Har-Tru USTa Pro Circuit Wild Card Challenge and see the greatest tennis stars face off for a chance to earn a Main Draw Wild Card into the French Open. Bring your family, and watch the action.

April 25–May 2, 2015 at Forestmeadows Tennis Center in Tallahassee, FL. For more information about tickets, sponsorships or volunteer opportunities, visit our website or call the TMH Foundation at 431-5389.

tall ahasseechallenger.com

850 Business Magazine

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

155

Digital Graffiti at Alys Beach 2015 Digital Graffiti at Alys Beach is a festival of digital virtuosity from all over the world. Join Alys Beach at the intersection of art, technology, and architecture.

June 4–6, 2015 Visit digitalgraffiti.com alysbeach.com | 866.481.8390

ALYS BEACH is a trademark of EBSCO Industries, Inc. © 2015

156

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

850businessmagazine.com

BUSINESS NEWS

CAPITAL NEW BEGINNINGS

» Randy Hanna has returned to

Bryant Miller Olive, where he served as managing shareholder from 1998 until he left the multistate law firm in 2011 to serve as chancellor of the 28 colleges in the Florida College System.

Hanna will also teach at the university level and consult with higher education institutions and organizations.

» Herschel Vinyard, former sec-

retary of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, has joined Foley & Lardner’s public affairs team as Of Counsel. His focus will be public policy and environmental regulation practices.

» Cari Roth has

joined the Tallahassee office of Dean Mead as Of Counsel in the Government Relations, LobbyROTH ing and Administrative Law practice group.

» Ben Gray-

bar is the new vice president and commercial banker for Hancock Bank.

Graybar was preGRAYBAR viously vice president and commercial banker for Tallahassee State Bank.

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY PROFILED INDIVIDUALS

» Rob Lane was

recently named Tallahassee city president, and Cindy Weier has been named vice president/branch LANE manager for PeoplesSouth Bank’s newly opened office located at 2920 Kerry Forest Parkway. Chartered in 1973, WEIER PeoplesSouth is a full service commercial bank with 24 locations throughout Southeast Alabama, Southwest Georgia and Northwest Florida.

» The Florida Retail Federation,

representing retailers for over 75 years, has hired James Miller as its new communications director to implement and oversee a comprehensive marketing, communications and public outreach strategy. He previously served as vice president of communications and marketing for the Greater Tallahassee Chamber of Commerce.

» Brian Proctor has joined NAI

TALCOR as a commercial advisor.

» Joe McCann, a 20-year public policy veteran, has joined Baker Donelson as a senior public policy advisor in the firm’s State Public Policy group. He was formerly a senior vice president at Ballard Partners.

» On the heels of the general

election, Tallahassee-based VR Systems, which provides elections software and hardware products to 62 of Florida’s 67 counties, expanded nationally with acquisition of the elections management assets of North Carolina’s Decision Support. VR Systems will now operate in 104 jurisdictions across the country.

» Florida is for Veterans Inc. has named Joe Marino as the corporation’s chief operations officer.

Marino is a graduate of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and most recently worked with the Florida Defense Contractor’s Association.

» Anna Alexopoulos has joined the On3PR team and will serve as an account manager.

SOUNDBYTES

advisor in the Tallahassee area.

Prior to joining Waddell & Reed, Nation, 39, was an owner of Nation One Financial.

» Wilson & Associates, a Tallahassee-based lobbying and association management firm specializing in the fields of energy and construction, has expanded its team with the addition of Wayne Bertsch as vice president of Political Operations and Tami Torres-Fillyaw as a senior communications consultant.

As part of its expansion, Chief Operating Officer Kari Hebrank has been promoted to partner. » Phil Morrison, a consultant and systems engineer, has joined Über Operations as its chief security officer. » Thomas How-

ell Ferguson has added three new hires to its Assurance Services Department — Manager Lori Martin, CPA, and staff members Catherine Carver and Taylor Harmon. Mark Hayes has been hired as a staff team member in the Tax Services Department.

MARTIN

HARMON

» Randi Jiang, Jason Norris and Christopher Salak have joined the Tallahassee office of James Moore, Certified Public Accountants and Consultants.

LOCAL PROMOTIONS

ALEXOPOULOS

» Farm Credit of Northwest Florida has welcomed Stephanie Kuhlman to the team as a loan processor in the Tallahassee office, where she will process loans and prepare loan-closing packages for the cooperative’s Country Mortgages Division. » Ted Nation has joined the Waddell & Reed firm as a financial

» Karl Blischke has been named director of the Division of Strategic Business Development at the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity. » International law firm Greenberg Traurig has elevated Karusha Y. Sharpe to Of Counsel in its Tallahassee office. She concentrates her practice on litigation matters involving products liability, consumer financial services, dealership law and employment law.

» Tallahassee-

based Partners in Association Management recently appointed two new vice presidents — Rachel Luoma, MS, CAE and John Ricco, MPA, CAE.

LUOMA

» Katie Munday

and Jeremy Smith, in the Tallahassee office RICCO of James Moore, Certified Public Accountants and Consultants, have been promoted. Munday is now a senior accountant and Smith an associate accountant.

LOCAL HONORS

» Tallahassee

attorney Elizabeth Ricci has been recognized by the Florida Supreme Court for her work RICCI on behalf of poor and indigent clients. Ricci and her husband, Neil St. John Rambana, are managing partners of Rambana & Ricci, a multilingual immigration law practice in Tallahassee.

» For the third

year in a row, Dan Parisi, director of new business development for Rowland Publishing PARISI Inc., has been named Top Producer in overall advertising sales at the regional publishing house. In 2014, he sold the highest dollar volume for two of the company’s flagship publications, Tallahassee Magazine and 850 — The Business Magazine of Northwest Florida.

» E. Edward Murray Jr., CCIM,

of NAI TALCOR, has achieved the prestigious SIOR Office designation. Individuals who hold the SIOR designation are top producers in the commercial real estate field and are represented in more than 630 cities in 29 countries around the world.

850 Business Magazine

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

157

BUSINESS NEWS

SOUNDBYTES

» The American Marketing As-

sociation presented its 4th annual Higher Education Marketer of the Year Individual Award to creative strategist Jeanette DeDiemar.

The award recognizes extraordinary leadership and achievement in the field of higher education marketing. Until recently, DeDiemar served as Florida State University’s associate vice president for university relations and director of integrated marketing and communications.

» Stacy Gromatski, president and CEO of the Florida Network of Youth and Family Services, has joined the board of Florida TaxWatch. » Alan Null and Rick Theobald, financial advisors with Waddell & Reed, have received the firm’s 2015 Crest Award. Among the highest honors for the most productive financial advisors, Crest Awards were presented to less than 190 of Waddell & Reed’s financial advisors, out of its national network of nearly 1,800. » Cathy Schroeder received the

2014 Silver Medal Award from the American Advertising Federation Tallahassee. She earned the club’s highest award for showing success in her company, creative ability, general

advancement of the advertising profession and contributions to the community.

FSM Associates, to the Tallahassee Community College Board of Trustees.

» A recent edition of Cook-

» Jay Pichard, 47, of Tallahassee, the owner of Pichard Holdings LLC, to the Florida Commission on Human Relations.

ing with Paula Deen magazine named Chicken Salad Chick as the top spot in the country to try chicken salad. A section entitled “Ten to Try” features a different delicacy in each issue and highlights 10 favorite spots to find that particular food. Chicken Salad Chick has sold over 100 franchises across the states of Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North and South Carolina, Tennessee and Texas.

APPOINTED

BY GOV. SCOTT

» Marc Dunbar, 44, of Tallahassee, to the Northwest Florida Water Management District.

» Martin Fennema, 59, of Tal-

lahassee, a professor at Florida State University, to the Board of Accountancy.

» Dr. Randi Mackintosh, 30, of

Tallahassee, a staff psychologist and the outreach director for the Florida State University Counseling Center, to the Board of Psychology.

» Frank Messersmith, 72, of

Crawfordville, a consultant for

JOHNSON AND WILSON AGELESS IN AMERICA is a new television show presented by The Area Agency on Aging for North Florida and hosted by Anna Johnson and Lew Wilson.

Created by Wilson and his firm, Doodle Dog Productions LLC, Impact Visual Media and WCTV, the show is geared toward baby boomers.

158

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

850businessmagazine.com

» William Spiers Jr., 57, of Tallahassee, director of financial aid at Tallahassee Community College, to the Florida Fund for Minority Teachers Inc. board of directors.

LOCAL HAPPENINGS

» Moore Communications Group, an integrated communications firm, has acquired Denver-based Financial Social Media, one of the leading social media firms in the country. » Sachs Media Group has opened its third Florida location in Boca Raton. Amy Rosen has been named vice president of South Florida Operations and Marketing and will head up the new office.

EMERALD COAST NEW BEGINNINGS

» Clay Ingram has been elected to serve as the new president and CEO of the Greater PenINGRAM sacola Chamber of Commerce.

Ingram, a Pensacola native, is a member of the Florida House of Representatives, where he represents most of Escambia County. He was recently named chair of the House Transportation and Economic Development Appropriations subcommittee.

Custom Home Builders, part of the Legendary Family of Companies.

» Lynnette VLAHOS Hayward, a nearly 30-year veteran of the retail industry, has been named the new director of retail for the Sandestin Family Retail Shops, which include Barefoot Princess, Island Clothiers, Coconut Kidz and Sandestin Clothing ComHAYWARD pany. » Ten years after Phillip Stutts & Company was formed, the firm has changed its name to Go Big Media Inc. and has moved to WaterSound, the new home of CEO Phillip Stutts. Dean Petrone, a veteran of Gov. Rick Scott’s first gubernatorial run and later an aide in his administration, has also joined the firm as its new vice president. » Seagar’s Prime Steaks and Seafood, Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa’s AAA Four-Diamond steakhouse, has appointed Paul Hawkins as the restaurant’s new general manager. » IMS ExpertServices has hired seven employees: Shawn Bernard (IT technician), Julie Goldberg (research), Sam Wein (recruiting/data quality), Jessica Patrick (recruiting assistant), Meghan Sorrell (marketing), Erica Evans (sales and business development) and Cassie Powell (accounting specialist).

LOCAL PROMOTIONS

» Blue Marlin Realty Group, one of the fastest growing real estate groups of the Emerald Coast, has expanded its team with new realtors Rick Moore and Shaun Gaiser.

» Air Force Col. Daniel J. Orcutt of Hurlburt Field has been nominated for appointment to the rank of brigadier general. Orcutt is currently serving as commander, 505th Command and Control Wing, Air Combat Command, Hurlburt Field.

» Phillip Vlahos has been named president of Destin

» Joni Guerrera has been promoted to vice president of Sales

and Marketing and Jeremy Holcomb to vice president of Operations for Legendary Yacht Club at Legendary Marine in Destin. » Dana Hahn has been promoted to Howard Group’s vice president of Real Estate. Howard Group is a Northwest Florida portfolio real estate development company specializing in premier commercial developments and upscale resort residential properties.

CHASE

POLLARD

ENGLISH

» Gulf Winds Federal Credit Union has announced several promotions: Stephanie Chase to vice president of Risk Management; Mary Pollard to assistant vice president of Consumer Lending; and Michael English to Marketing Analyst II.

PHOTOS BY SCOTT HOLSTEIN (GOSSOM), DAVE BARFIELD (JOHNSON AND WILSON) AND PROVIDED BY PROFILED INDIVIDUALS

» Saltmarsh, Cleaveland &

Gund has announced the following promotions in its Pensacola office: Whitney Bruner, CPA, and Lori Gambill to senior in the Financial Institutions Services Department; Stephen MacBeth, CRCM, and Rob Wilson to manager in the Financial Institutions Advisory Group; Mike Miller, CPA, CIT, and Beth Varhalla, CPA, to senior manager and Catie Purdon to senior in Tax and Accounting Services; Chuck Landers, CPA, CIT, to shareholder in Audit and Assurance Services.

» Warren Averett, LLC, Certified

Public Accountants and Advisors, has promoted seven employees to Members of the Firm, including Pensacola-based Jeff Helms, a member of the firm’s Investment Committee.

LOCAL HONORS

» The University of West Florida

has been selected to receive the 2015 Community Engagement Classification, an honor given to 361 institutions nationwide by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. This is the first time UWF has received this prestigious classification.

» Florida’s Naval Air Station

Pensacola and Naval Air Station Whiting Field won a sweep of the Navy’s 2015 Installation Excellence Awards. NAS Pensacola was No. 1 in the large base category and Whiting was No. 1 in the small base category.

The award lauds the top Navy commands at shore for their installation management, program excellence and community outreach. Now the two first-place winners compete for the nomination to represent the Navy for the DoD-wide 2015 Commander in Chief’s Annual Award for Installation Excellence.

» Thom Gos-

som Jr., has been elected chairman of the Auburn University Foundation Board — the GOSSOM first AfricanAmerican to hold the position.

Gossom is owner and president of Best Gurl Inc., a multi-platform communication company in Fort Walton Beach. He is also an executive-in-residence for Auburn Athletics, a director of the Okaloosa County Tourism Board and a member of the Via College of Osteopathic Medicine Auburn Advisory Board.

» Kenneth Brooks Jr., a manag-

ing partner with Brooks, Warrick & Associates in Milton, has been honored by the Florida Supreme Court for his work on behalf of poor and indigent clients. Since 1992, he has contributed hundreds of hours of free legal assistance to those who are on the fringe of the community through age, disability or economic circumstances. He has also provided free legal service and advice to nonprofit groups that support local schools or serve the community in other ways.

» Pensacola Bayfront Stadium placed 12th out of 2,050 national venues on Stadium Journey magazine’s list of the “Top 100 Stadium Experiences for 2014” — outranking such legendary peers as Fenway Park, Wrigley Field, the Rose Bowl Stadium, the Superdome and the Dallas Cowboys’ new AT&T Stadium. » Pensacola Bay Center, celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2015, sold more than 73,800 tickets in 2014. This achievement placed the venue at 86th in the United States and 152nd in the world on Pollstar magazine’s 2014 “Top 200 Arena Rankings.”

» The Destin Area Chamber of Commerce recently installed Newman-Dailey Resort Properties President Ken Wampler as the 2015 Chairman of the Board.

Other members of the executive committee include: Chairman Elect Jonathan Ochs, Trustmark National Bank; Treasurer Bill Lindsley, SimpleHR/SimpleHIRE; Immediate Past Chairman Amy Perry, Pleat, Perry & Ritchie, P.A.; Vice Chairman – Communications & Marketing Julie Cotton, Northwest Florida State College; Vice Chairman – Community & Economic Development Lockwood Wernet, Destin Water Users Inc.; Vice Chairman – Membership Development Bob Perry, Destin Commons; and Vice Chairman – Harbor Advisory Committee Jami Jones, Destin Charter Service. » Jonathan Tallman, owner of The Tallman Group LLC, located in Niceville, has been named in Insurance Business America magazine’s Hot 100 list for 2015.

The annual list recognizes 100 people who have made waves in the insurance industry over the past year. » Two hotels in the St. Joe Club & ResortsSM collection — WaterColor® Inn & Resort and The Pearl Hotel, in addition to the WaterColor® Inn’s onsite restaurant Fish Out of Water® — have received four-star ratings from the 2015 Forbes Travel Guide.

» In a year of record-breaking tourism, a number of Pensacola Bay Area organizations earned national — and even international — acclaim for their initiatives, service delivery and innovation: • TripAdvisor recently announced its 2014 Travelers’ Choice Awards, naming Pensacola’s National Naval Aviation Museum one of the “Top 25 Museums in the United States,” alongside the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The museum, which celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2014, was also recently named to USA Today’s list of “10 Best Military Museums.”

• Crowne Plaza Pensacola Grand Hotel and Holiday Inn Resort Pensacola Beach have each brought home an IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) Quality Excellence Award — the third for both properties. The annual award is given to hotels that achieve “distinction in all aspects of their operations.” IHG also honored Holiday Inn Resort Pensacola Beach with a sales award for Director of Sales Katie Kehoe.

•Holiday Inn Express Pensacola Beach was named to the Expedia Insiders’ Select list for 2014, marking the hotel’s second consecutive year as a top-ranking Expedia-listed hotel.

The hotel’s staff were also presented with a second Kemmons Wilson Spirit of Family Award by InterContinental Hotels Group, a distinction given to just one Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express property in the North Americas each year. The hotel also took home the InterContinental Hotels Group Torchbearer Award — for the fifth consecutive year.

» Emagination Unlimited Inc. of Pensacola received numerous ADDY Awards for exceptional creative design work at the American Advertising Federation of Pensacola 2015 American Advertising Awards. They took five Gold Awards, including digital advertising campaigns for Covenant Hospice and Pensacola International Airport.

850 Business Magazine

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

159

Do you know an outstanDing woman Business LeaDer? 850 — The Business Magazine of Northwest Florida is looking for your help in recognizing women in our region who have demonstrated outstanding leadership skills in their businesses and communities.

PINNACLE

AWARDS

HONORING THE OUTSTANDING WOMEN

Nominations are now open at 850businessmagazine.comBUSINESS LEADERS OF NORTHWEST FLORIDA Ten women will be selected to receive the 2015 Pinnacle Award — women of character and integrity, our leaders, mentors and community servants.

These honorees will be profiled in the 2015 October/November issue of 850.

Nominees must be a private sector business owner, CEO, primary manager or top executive in their companies. Nominees must have: 1) demonstrated professional excellence and outstanding leadership in her business or profession; 2) actively participated in civic and/or business-related organizations; 3) served as a mentor to others.

PINNACLE AWARDS HONORING THE OUTSTANDING WOMEN BUSINESS LEADERS OF NORTHWEST FLORIDA

Nominations must be received by April 15, 2015.

preSented By

SponSored By

For additional sponsorship opportunities, contact McKenzie Burleigh at mburleigh@rowlandpublishing.com 160

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

850businessmagazine.com

BUSINESS NEWS

» Brittany Miller and Stephan

Vance, of Pensacola digital marketing and public relations firm Ideaworks, have passed their Google Analytics Individual Qualification test. The certification, obtained through Google, demonstrates proficiency in data analysis and search engine optimization concepts. » Gulf Winds Federal Credit Union has earned BauerFinancial’s 5-Star Superior rating for strength and security. A 5-Star Superior rating indicates excellence in areas of capital, loan quality, profitability and more.

Gulf Winds Federal Credit Union has earned this highest rating for 82 consecutive quarters. Only 9 percent of the nation’s credit unions have earned and maintained Bauer’s top rating for so long and with such consistency.

» SunQuest Cruises SOLARIS

has been selected as a 2015 “Best of Weddings” winner for Destin weddings, a special section featured on The Knot’s Web site. Winners represent the top 1 percent of reviews from recently married couples. This is the sixth consecutive year SOLARIS has been voted the winner of The Knot “Best of Weddings.” SOLARIS is also one of only 748 new inductees into The Knot Best of Weddings Hall of Fame for 2015.

LOCAL HAPPENINGS

» Two industrial parks in Santa

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY PROFILED INDIVIDUALS

Rosa County have been certified

by Gulf Power’s “Florida First Sites” program — Northwest Florida Industrial Park at Interstate 10 and Santa Rosa County Industrial Park. Certification means the sites have proper zoning, service to utilities and meet other qualifications that make them ready for development. Both sites are targeting aerospace.

» Aerosync Support Inc., a

leader in helicopter repairs, modifications and upgrades, will expand in Santa Rosa County.

The expansion will create 25 new jobs and a capital investment of at least $1.75 million in the region. The company provides global on-site labor support

SOUNDBYTES

for Bell and Sikorsky helicopter products, servicing commercial and military markets.

for Sandy Sansing Dealerships, to the Pensacola State College Board of Trustees.

» Gulf Power is partnering with

FORGOTTEN COAST

the U.S. Navy and U.S. Air Force to build solar energy farms at three different facilities across Northwest Florida. The utility submitted the renewable projects to the Florida Public Service Commission for approval, and the projects could be in service as early as December 2016. The solar energy farms will be constructed at Eglin AFB in Fort Walton Beach (30 megawatts), Holley Field in Navarre (40 megawatts) and Saufley Field in Pensacola (50 megawatts). Gulf Power will serve customers across Northwest Florida with power from these renewable energy-generating facilities.

» Northwest Florida Regional

Airport, located on the Eglin Air Force Base, has a new name — the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport. The change is designed to take advantage of two of the best known names in the region.

» Two Northwest Florida television broadcasters have joined forces — Santa Rosa Beach-based 30a TV and Port St Joe-based Coastal Connection TV. Both companies will expand their programming to include broadcasts on cable, antenna, web TV ROKU, Amazon Fire TV and mobile devices. Live on location broadcasts will also be added, enabling simultaneous online and cable TV viewing.

APPOINTED

BY GOV. SCOTT

» Lewis Bear Jr., 74, of Gulf

Breeze, president of the Lewis Bear Company, to the University of West Florida Board of Trustees.

» Belle Bear, 74, of Gulf Breeze, a community volunteer, to the Governor’s Mansion Commission. » Richard Goff, 62, of Niceville,

president of KG II Development, to the Florida Building Commission.

» Chip Simmons, 50, of Cantonment, chief of police for the City of Pensacola, and Frank White, 36, of Pensacola, the general counsel and a business analyst

LOCAL NEWS

» An economic impact study commissioned by the Port St. Joe Port Authority concludes that proposed port infrastructure improvements could generate nearly $133 million in net state revenues, representing a total return on investment of nearly $4.66 to state taxpayers for each state dollar invested in the project.

The study by the Washington Economic Group concluded the proposed port modernization plans will generate an average of 803 annual equivalent jobs from 2015 to 2025 and have a $941 million economic impact. The port authority this year is asking the state legislature for operational money. » The City of Port St. Joe is one of four communities selected by the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity to participate in the pilot program for the Competitive Florida Partnership, a new rural community development initiative. The state agency will assist the city in creating strategic economic development plans, such as a community asset inventory that will be made available to potential businesses wishing to expand in or move to Florida.

APPOINTED

BY GOV. SCOTT

» Kathie Brown, 62, of Panacea, director of ReNu U Medical Spa, to the Department of Elder Affairs Advisory Council.

as executive vice president of the Greater Columbus Georgia Chamber of Commerce.

» Clifford Wil-

son III has been named president of PrebleRish Inc., one of the largest locally owned WILSON engineering firms in Northwest Florida, with 13 offices in Florida, one in Alabama and one in Haiti. Wilson most recently served as interim Secretary of the Florida Department of Environmental Regulation.

» Sandy Sims has been selected to serve as Gulf Power’s new Eastern District general manager, taking SIMS responsibility for the utility’s customer service and sales operations in the district that includes Panama City, Panama City Beach and Chipley. She is replacing John Ed McDanal, who retired in March after 34 years with the company.

Sims most recently served as Gulf Power’s Community Relations manager, overseeing the company’s strategic community support of charitable activities and community engagement.

LOCAL HAPPENINGS

» Silver Airways has begun daily flights to Orlando and Tampa from the Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) in Bay County. ECP is the 12th Florida airport to provide Silver Airways service.

I-10

BAY NEW BEGINNINGS

» Becca Hardin is the new president of the Bay Economic Development Alliance, replacing Neal Wade. She HARDIN joined the EDA as senior vice president in the fall of 2014 after working 13 years

APPOINTED

BY GOV. SCOTT

» Michael McCormick, 59, of Bonifay, a paramedic supervisor with Holmes County EMS, to the Holmes County Hospital Corporation. » James Padgett, 84, of Mari-

anna, a former Jackson County commissioner, to the Chipola College Board of Trustees.

850 Business Magazine

Compiled by Linda Kleindienst

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

161

The Last Word

Perhaps foolishly, we assumed it would be easy to look at the 18 economic development organizations in our coverage area, get an accounting of what jobs they have brought to the table for their residents over the past five years and then let the public know what it is getting for the tax dollars that city and county governments are spending on the effort.

We were wrong.

In fact, we found it a hard topic to get our arms around because there is no standard accounting method — and that makes it nearly impossible to even compare how different counties are faring in their efforts to improve their local economies. And, in some cases, the jobs being reported are openings the businesses themselves claim will be created in the future — they’re not yet even filled with warm bodies.

I asked Dale Brill, a former leader of the state’s economic development efforts, whether there should be some standard developed for reporting jobs that the local economic development organization has been responsible for. His reply: “In the absence of a centralized management system for all economic development organizations, there is no logical need — nor any practical inclination — to use common definitions from one region or area to another.”

And, honestly, in the end it is a county’s political leaders who really want to know what the EDO did for the county — not for the region.

162

|

APRIL – MAY 2015

|

850businessmagazine.com

Yet while job counts may not be the definitive answer to the question of how an economic development organization is working, it is definitely part of the answer. Or, it should be. Don’t taxpayers have a right to know the effectiveness of the expenditure of their tax dollars?

The other disheartening part of our journey on this story was that many of the region’s economic development agencies didn’t respond to a request for information on their operations. Because of time and the complexity of the issue we addressed, we didn’t push the issue with some of the counties, especially smaller ones. But it would behoove them to be more responsive — especially when we’re talking about the expenditure of public money.

When I covered state politics and state government, it was nothing to call a Senate president, a local member of Congress, the head of a state agency or even the governor to talk about a story or issue and have him or her answer the call or soon return it. At one point during Bob Graham’s time in the governor’s office, members of the press corps could walk down a back staircase and even poke their head in his office to ask Graham a question.

(Unfortunately, that access was shut off by his successor.)

When I needed documents from a state agency, it usually didn’t take long to get them. Well, OK, some gubernatorial administrations were more media-friendly than others. But the public records law is the public’s public records law, and compliance is pretty much mandatory.

So I remain dismayed by the sometimes-lackadaisical attitude of those who spend taxpayer dollars yet aren’t elected or technically covered by the public records law. Hopefully, on some retrospection, that might change.

LINDA KLEINDIENST, EDITOR lkleindienst@rowlandpublishing.com PHOTO BY KAY MEYER

Our cover story in this issue was designed to give readers a closer look into the world of economic development within the 850 region. We started out to determine who is responsible for economic development and how successful they are. But trying to find a definitive answer sometimes felt like trying to hold Jell-O in our bare hands.

And we kept coming up with more questions, likely driving to distraction some of those being interviewed.

You Seek. We Find.

Meet Debbie McMullian

CareerSource Florida is a powerful network of professionals who can connect your business with skilled talent, hiring services and training resources to help you compete and grow.

Provide local and state labor market data

Recruit qualified job candidates

careersourceflorida.com

Schedule interviews

Review resumes and screen candidates

Offer training solutions, state and local

Debbie directs CareerSource Florida’s Quick Response Training program, a partial reimbursement grant structured to be flexible and responsive to the needs of new or expanding businesses. Under Debbie’s leadership, Quick Response Training has helped more than 512 businesses in Florida train more than 111,074 employees since 2000.

Connect with the professionals in your region

CareerSource Florida is an equal opportunity employer/program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. Disponible in Español.

WHEREVER BUSINESS OR PLEASURE TAKES YOU

TRUST THE BEST

CARD | LEASE | SHARE | MANAGEMENT SERVING THE U . S ., CANADA , MEXICO & CARIBBEAN WHEREVER YOUR TRAVEL PLANS TAKE YOU , FOR BUSINESS OR LEISURE , IT ’ S ALL ABOUT YOU .

YOU C AN TRUST

NICHOLAS AIR TO HELP YOU SELECT A PROGRAM THAT BEST SUITS YOUR TRAVEL NEEDS . OPERATING IN AND OUT OF 9,000+ AIRPORTS IN THE U . S . ALONE , WE GET YOU CLOSER TO YOUR DESTINATION AND GIVE YOU MORE TIME ON THE GROUND . AFTER ALL , TIME IS THE MOST VALUABLE NON - RENEWABLE RESOURCE ON EARTH .

ENJOY THE COMFORT AND CONVENIENCE OF FLYING WITH NICHOLAS AIR AND GAIN ACCESS TO OUR ENTIRE FLEET OF PILATUS PC - 12 S , PHENOM 100 AND PHENOM 300 JETS .

IT ’ S LIKE OWNING YOUR OWN AIRCRAFT , WITHOUT THE HASSLE .

NICHOLASAIR . COM

| 866.935.7771

ALL AIRCRAFT ARE OWNED AND OPERATED BY NICHOLAS AIR INC . NICHOLAS AIR AND INNOVATIVE PRIVATE AIR TRAVEL ARE REGISTERED TRADEMARKS

®

2015 NICHOLAS AIR . ALL RIGHTS RESERVED .