Emerald Coast Magazine, Feburay/March 2014

VOL. 15 NO. 1

WE NO AL DD RT SO ING HW INS S 2 EST IDE 01 FL : 4 D OR EB IDA UT ISS UE

THE EMER ALD COAST MAGA ZINE

SWEET TREATS

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM FEBRUARY-MARCH 2014

Sweet Treats Win over your Valentine’s heart — and taste buds!

$3.95

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FEB-MAR 2014

A product of Rowland Publishing, Inc.

FAST TRACK Explosive growth on the Emerald Coast’s scenic highway 30A

SHIPS AHOY Calm economic seas lure boaters to return to the water

SADDLE UP Get your hot western looks right here for the Cattle Barons’ Ball

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#FlyECP to St. Louis Visit the Gateway to the Midwest in less than two hours. | Nonstop flights begin March 8 on Southwest Airlines.

Photographer: Todd Morgan Photography Copyright © St. Louis Convention & Visitors Commission.

Economical. Convenient. Painless.

4 February–March 2014

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

The Emerald Coast Magazine February + March 2014

contents

60 features

happenings

A word with You

54 We’re Going to Need a Bigger Boat How savvy marine companies navigated a smart course through rough financial seas.

35 Spotlight This show gives a whole new meaning to “Southern Rock.”

8 From the Publisher 10 Editor’s Note 170 The Last Word

60 The 30A Phenomenon Businesses on this scenic highway are on the fast track to success. photos By Colleen Duffley (Grayton Bar & Grill) and Scott Holstein (hat)

Grayton Bar and Grill is just one of many popular, new places popping up all along 30A.

36 Culture A lesson in how to make your first masterpiece!

40 Calendar Spring into action and head to these festive events.

45 Social Studies Look who’s out and about on the EC scene.

in the e.c.

the good life

13 Snapshot Ryoko Garcia has nailed her art form!

151 E udaimonia We’re on Mother Nature’s latest trail.

15 Chat EC’s theater scene welcomes newcomers Nathanael and Anna Fisher center stage.

156 G ardening The best “buddy-buddy” system for planting veggies.

16 Made in the EC The buzz on Destin’s local honey.

20 What’s Haute Lasso all you need for the 2014 Cattle Barons’ Ball.

22 Well-Worded The full dose on Ed Dailey.

24 Personality The politics of Jay Odom.

Special Sections 27 Women Profiles 50 Top Salon on the Emerald Coast 2014 67 Sponsored Report: Northwest Florida Weddings 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.

152 Deal Estate

158 F lavor Homemade sweet treats baked right here on the EC. 163 Dining Let us guide you to savor the flavors of the Emerald Coast.

166 A Taste For … the Greek yogurt

explosion.

169 On the Menu Spicy must-taste

Mexican.

26 Scene Have you heard the latest about the Emerald Coast?

20

Have a thought? Let us know what you think at editor@emeraldcoastmagazine.com, facebook.com/emeraldcoast or through twitter @emeraldcoastmag. Visit our newly redesigned online home at EmeraldCoastMagazine.com and come back often for cool contests, fun promotions and much more.

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Vol. 15, No. 1 February–MArch 2014 The Emerald Coast Magazine

President/Publisher

Brian E. Rowland

EDITORIAL

Director of Editorial Services Linda Kleindienst Editor Zandra Wolfgram Staff Writer Jason Dehart Editorial Coordinator Chay D. Baxley Contributing Writers Chay D. Baxley, Susan Benton, Jeanne Craig, Lauren Gillespie, Linda Kleindienst, Martha J. LaGuardia-Kotite, Thomas J. Monigan, Audrey Post, L. Jordan Swanson, Zandra Wolfgram Editorial Interns Mikaela McShane, Katie Mueller, Megan Williams Prepress Specialist Melinda Lanigan

CREATIVE

Creative Director Lawrence Davidson Assistant Creative Director Saige Roberts Senior Graphic Designer Jennifer Ekrut Graphic Designers Lizzie Moore, Shruti Shah Advertising Designers Jillian Fry, Monica Perez Production Manager/Network Administrator Daniel Vitter Staff Photographer Scott Holstein Contributing Photographers Robert Barton, Michael Cage Photography, Kay Phelan, Howard Robinson, Rahav Segev, Lori Leath Smith, Jaqueline Ward, Zandra Wolfgram, Allison Yii

SALES AND MARKETING

Marketing and Sales Manager McKenzie Burleigh Director of New Business Daniel Parisi Traffic Coordinator Lisa Sostre Sales Executives Rhonda Lynn Murray, Darla Harrison, Tim Hughes, Tracy Mulligan, Chris St. John, Paula Sconiers, Drew Gregg Westling Marketing and Sales assistant Derika Crowley

OPERATIONS

Administrative Services Manager Melissa Tease Special Projects And Events Coordinators Lynda Belcher, Kerri Bryan Accounting Specialists Josh Faulds, Tabby Hamilton Receptionist Tristin Kroening

WEB

Social Media/Systems Management Specialist Carlin Trammel Emerald Coast Magazine instagram.com/emeraldcoastmag emeraldcoastmagazine.com pinterest.com/emeraldcoastmag facebook.com/emeraldcoast youtube.com/user/emeraldcoastmag twitter.com/emeraldcoastmag Rowland Publishing rowlandpublishing.com

SUBSCRIPTIONS

One Year (6 issues) is $30 Call (850) 878-0554 or go online to emeraldcoastmagazine.com.

Single copies are $3.95 Purchase at Barnes and Noble in Destin and Books-A-Million in Destin and at Sun Plaza in Mary Esther.

Editorial Office 1932 Miccosukee Road, Tallahassee, FL, 32308 Customer Service & Submissions EC 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. EC Magazine reserves the right to publish any letters to the editor.

Copyright February 2014 Emerald Coast Magazine Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited.

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from the publisher It’s a Time to Focus on Women and an Opportunity to Facilitate Change

It’s time to salute women as we approach Women’s History Month. In 1969, women comprised about one-third of the workforce. Today, their numbers make up close to half the paid workforce in this country.

A point of concern and disappointment, however, is that in Florida and nationally women continue to earn less than their male counterparts for comparable work. The Equal Pay Act was signed into law by President John F. Kennedy in 1963. But today, nationally, while women are outpacing men in getting college degrees they still on average make 77 percent of what men earn.

Florida women have it somewhat better, earning 83 cents to every dollar earned by a male. But that still amounts to an average $7,128 annual gap. And the numbers are far worse for African American and Hispanic women.

At Rowland Publishing, more than half of my associates are women who market, write, design and administer the many moving parts of this publishing company. Their talent and focus are instrumental in bringing you this and the many quality publications that we deliver each year.

Many women in history helped pave the road that allows the women of today to take their rightful place as an integral part of our cultural and business landscape. Personally and corporately, I am very supportive of their continued growth and success. Someday in the not-too-distant future I see women leading our state and our nation. Let’s face it, the male-dominated Congress has not done a very good job in building relationships and consensus — or making decisions in the best interest of the nation as a whole.

(A record number of women ran for public office in 2012 — and there are a record number of women serving in Congress, comprising 18 percent.)

Remember that it was a bipartisan group of women in the U.S. Senate in October who helped end the Congressional stalemate over the government shutdown. I look forward to that welcome change when women take their rightful place in our nation’s political bodies and corporate hierarchies.

About eight months ago I began surveying the media landscape of Northwest Florida to see if there were any empty print media niches in need of being filled and came up with the wedding market. I was reminded of a conversation I had several months earlier with a realtor from Marianna who was planning her daughter’s wedding, an event for 500 people, which she was going to host at her farm. There were no vendors in Jackson County that could handle her many needs, and she couldn’t locate a resource that provided information about businesses capable of handling a large-scale wedding.

So, my personal research continued through a series of desk-side chats with wedding specialists and destination venues in the region. All I spoke with agreed that their marketing opportunities are limited and there was a need for a publication with a verifiable circulation model.

As a result, we are now debuting Northwest Florida Weddings — From the Coast to the Country to the City. You will see it in this issue of EC, and it is also appearing in Tallahassee Magazine and 850 — The Business Magazine of Northwest Florida. That means close to 60,000 copies will be direct-mailed to homes and businesses across the region. Another 7,000 copies will be printed on boutique stock and distributed at bridal shows we plan to attend in Birmingham and Atlanta during the first quarter of the year. This publication will also remain alive as a digital flipbook on our three magazine websites and be marketed through our social media outlets during 2014. We now feel that we have more than adequately filled the void in the regional marketplace.

There is no question that weddings — and honeymoons — are big business in our region and my goal is to drive more of that business here. I hope you will enjoy what the RPI team has created and that you’ll pass along to any brides-to-be, or their moms, to review.

on the cover

Raspberry Mousse Tart drizzled with chocolate from Fort Walton Beach’s Bon Appetit. Photography

by Scott Holstein

VOL. 15 NO. 1

WED NO ALS DIN RTH O IN GS WES SID 20 T FL E: 14 O DEB RID UT A ISSU E

SWEET TREATS

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— Brian Rowland browland@rowlandpublishing.com 14EC_FM_PreudentialPanFed.indd 1

8 February–March 2014

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Sweet Treats Win over your Valentine’s heart — and taste buds!

FAST TRACK Explosive growth on the Emerald Coast’s scenic highway 30A

SHIPS AHOY Calm economic seas lure boaters to return to the water

SADDLE UP Get your hot western looks right here for the Cattle Barons’ Ball

Photo by Scott Holstein

THE EMER ALD COAST MAGA ZINE

Exceptional Quality of Care Proudly Serving All Rehab Needs of the Emerald Coast Offering Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy Long Term Care and Assisted Living Services

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editor’s note

editor’s picks In 1955 my mom was 16. Her girlfriend, Carol, wanted to go out with some hot guy with a cool car, so her mother told her she needed to bring a friend. She convinced my mom, Artie, to tag along. Carol’s date must have been nervous to go it alone, too, because he brought along my dad, Emil. As they walked along the street, my dad tried to impress his date by catapulting over the parking meters. My mom thought he could be trouble, but she liked his smiling brown eyes and “James Dean looks.”

While Carol and her date necked in the cool car, my parents got to know one another over burgers and shakes. Two years later, when they were 18 and of legal age, they got married and eventually raised six kids. They didn’t have a perfect marriage, but they had a wonderful love affair that ended all too soon when cancer took my father in 1983.

He was just 44, but there is no doubt he lived and loved well. And when he could no longer speak, his smiling brown eyes continued to express his love and gratitude for my mom, and all of us, until his last breath. Emil was Artie’s true love. She remained a widow until she died nearly 20 years later. I like to think of them reunited now — two one-of-a-kind kids at heart who would say the other was definitely the “better half.”

I met my husband on a scavenger hunt in New Orleans. I wasn’t scavenging for a date, much less a husband, but after a friend paired us up for an elaborate “National Treasure”-like trivia game after a Thanksgiving dinner party, that was pretty much it. Somehow the fact that he answered all of the questions I didn’t know, and I found all the clues he missed, it seemed to make sense. Or it could have been the homemade apple pie I brought to the dinner party that he scarfed the next day for breakfast. I’m not sure, but after 12 years of being married we still are like two puzzle pieces — very different, but somehow we fit.

How did you meet your “other half”? Did you have a blind date, too? We’d love to hear your story. Share it with us at EmeraldCoastMagazine.com or on our Facebook page. And be sure to check out our new special wedding section debuting in this edition. It just may inspire you to say “I Do” all over again.

With love,

Artist of the Year and Then Some The Walton County Tourist Development Council has a fresh new face to present to visitors and coastal-inspired turquoisecolored shirts to match. It has kept the change going by holding its annual meeting outdoors, overlooking the Gulf on a sunny October afternoon. Part of the event included The Artist of the Year program, now in its 13th year, which named glass artist Mary Hong as the 2014 South Walton Artist of the Year.

But this year, the TDC did something else new. It expanded the South Walton Artist of the Year program to recognize the talent of four additional locals: Performer of the Year Mike Whitty, Photographer of the Year Chandler Williams, Painter of the Year Juan Adaro and Designer of the Year Stephanie Carter.

Congratulations to these creative souls and to the TDC for recognizing the art in what they do. In doing so, they continue to elevate the arts as a vital part of life on the Emerald Coast. Artfully done.

Hong

Whitty

Williams

—Z andra Wolfgram editor@emeraldcoastmagazine.com

Adaro

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Carter

Photos by Allison Yii (Wolfgram) and Courtesy of Walton County TDC (Artists of the Year)

My ‘National Treasure’ Love Story

Experience counts...

Celebrating 15 years.

Dedication - Exceptional Quality & Service Dennis Lichorwic, DMD MD

President Florida Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry

Julia Skinn Skinner, DMD

Stephanie Baya, DMD D

DestinDentist.com 850.654.8665 4635 Gulfstarr Drive, Destin, Florida 32541

PCBDentist.com 850.235.2299

309 Richard Jackson Blvd, Panama City Beach, Florida 32407

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EXPERIENCE THE EXCITEMENT

March 6-9

ELINOR KLAPP PHIPPS PARK, TALLAHASSEE LEARN MORE AT RHHT.ORG 12 April–May 2013

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

in the e.c.

Peopl e + St y le + H y p e

Snapshot

Nailing It!

Ryoko Garcia does not simply paint nails; she creates tiny works of art. The nail technician from Navarre recently was named a finalist in Nail Magazine’s nationwide nail design contest — her 13th worldwide competition.

What sets this soft-spoken wellness worker apart from other nail technicians? “I try not to do ordinary designs,” Garcia says. “I try to do something that no one has ever seen before.”

Garcia is a Tokyo native who moved to Florida last year to be with her Air Force husband. She has been bringing trendy nail designs to Bella Day Spa in Fort Walton Beach ever since.

Garcia uses the blank space from cuticle to fingertip as a canvas for her innovative art.

Her hand-painted nail designs are inspired by everything from shopping trips to the turquoise waves at the beach. But most of all, this nail artist is inspired by her clientele. She loves her job, because it allows her to help people. “It’s therapeutic,” she says. “Every customer wants something special, something to make them feel good. So there is a story behind every design.”

— Lauren Gillespie

Photo by Scott Holstein

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com February–March 2014

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Voted Best Medical Practice!

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EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

chat

Acting Out Emerald Coast Theatre Company was founded by two passionate theater lovers By L. Jordan Swanson

O

ne vibrant couple is taking their passion for acting, directing, costume designing and everything else theater-related and transforming it into their dream for the community.

Nathanael Fisher, 42, and Destinite Anna Fisher, 38, met 11 years ago on Halloween night in Virginia Beach, Va., where Anna was studying theater in graduate school at Regent University and Nathanael was visiting friends. It was love at first glance for these two bubbly and charismatic people, and within a year Anna moved to Orlando to marry Nathanael. In Central Florida, Anna taught high school English, and Nathanael worked at Islands of Adventure mostly as the entertainment figure, Spiderman. He also walked on stilts, made balloon animals and played the role of Imhotep when The Mummy ride was first introduced.

“He used a lot of self-tanner for that one,” said Anna, both of them breaking out in laughter, which seemed to define their playful relationship.

Seven years later, the couple ended up back in Virginia Beach for Anna to finish her graduate degree and do contract work at schools that involved teaching theater and putting on shows for elementary students, and for Nathanael to begin and complete his Master of Fine Arts in Acting. All the while raising their 3-year-old twin daughters.

About 18 months ago, the couple moved to Santa Rosa Beach. In January 2013, two lifechanging events happened for the accomplished couple — they welcomed their third daughter into the world, and they officially kicked off their non-profit organization, Emerald Coast Theater Company. As their primary roles in the company, Anna is the associate artistic director as well as the costume designer, and Nathanael is the executive and artistic director. Together, they compose scripts and direct shows to be performed at local schools and venues with the goal of enriching and entertaining the Emerald Coast community through professional and educational theater.

In addition to building a theater company together, the two keep their skills sharp while working as professional theater instructors.

Nathanael teaches acting and theater at UWF, and Anna visits local schools representing ECTC to teach theater to our youth. We recently put the Emerald Coast’s newest stage stars in the spotlight, and this is what they had to say.

Photo by Scott Holstein

Anna and Nathanael Fisher formed Emerald Coast Theatre Company to educate and entertain the Emerald Coast with family-friendly performing arts productions on public stages like this one in The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin.

EC: Why did you form Emerald Coast Theatre Company?

NF: Theater is a way in which we can see through someone else’s eyes. We can see the conflicts, the relationships and the approach to life through the stories of theater.

The wonderful thing about theater is everyone is breathing the same air. It’s all experienced right there.

I want to see that happen right in our backyard.

EC: What is your vision for the company?

NF: Our vision is two-fold. One is theater arts education. Anna and I have seen how kids that get involved in theater go from being shy to having that self-confidence that theater builds. Theater is a community sport. I don’t really want it to be our thing — I want it to be a community thing.

AF: Our goal also involves achieving the professional side of the theater company, and to find good, professional actors locally.

EC: How can locals get their children involved and support this non-profit arts organization?

NF: There’s no way Anna and I can pull off what we dream for this area without people coming alongside

and helping, which is why we went through the hassle of trying to create a 501(c)(3) as opposed to just doing a for-profit business.

We offer low cost adult improv classes as well as free local shows, and workshops at Sacred Heart [Hospital on the Emerald Coast].

We invite anyone interested in sharing their talent as part of our company or helping with sets, props or costumes to contact us.

EC: ECTC plans to continue to host adult improv classes in 2014. How would you describe these classes?

NF: It’s games that help you work on listening and responding, being in the moment.

AF: Improv is good for anybody who finds themselves in a social situation.

EC: What do you have planned for your company’s spring 2014 timeframe?

NF: I’m hoping to add one or two more either after-school or Saturday classes at Destin Elementary School, continue with summer camps, expand programming with Arts and Medicine at Sacred Heart, and add more shows at HarborWalk Village and The Village of Baytowne Wharf to the summer schedule. ec

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made in the ec

Hum of the Hive Making sweet-n-wild natural local honey

By Martha J. LaGuardia-Kotite

I

n backyards, fields and gardens from Destin to South Walton honeybees are flourishing. Buzzing in and out of hives, colonies are tended by beekeepers harvesting gallons of their honey — unprocessed local gold. When blooms, pollen and nectar are abundant from all sorts of crops and flowers, between May and October, the worker bees produce the most honey — a healthy sweet, with antibacterial and allergy relief benefits.

A colony can house 50,000 to 60,000 worker bees, undeveloped females who do all the work to satisfy the queen, said Ken Holman, a Destin beekeeper. Only worker bees gather nectar and pollinate the flowers of many plants.

A single bee can make around 1/12 of a teaspoon of honey in its lifetime. “It can take up to 300,000 to 700,000 trips to make a pound of honey,” said Holman, who started beekeeping in his backyard four years ago. His eight hives produce between 60 to 100 pounds a week when “things are really blooming.

That means honey and money.”

For hobbyists, there’s not much money making honey. “I can make enough to pay my gas money,” he said. Drawn to beekeeping after reading about colony collapse — bees dying — and learning about their importance as pollinators for our food supply, Holman, 69, decided to make honey as a hobby when he was semi-retired. Raised in DeFuniak Springs, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1962 for 53 months during the Vietnam War. He married and worked as a construction worker in the Santa Rosa Beach area until the couple moved to Destin in 1978.

Holman, a member of the Florida Beekeepers Association, harvests 200 gallons of honey a year between the peak producing spring season and the fall, when production tapers off for the winter. The Department of Agriculture inspects his bottling and harvesting annually. “Bees are considered agriculture, protected and inspected just like any other livestock,” he said.

Customers are locals. They stop by his home on Mountain Drive to pick up a jar. “It’s an honor system — some of my customers can’t afford it. They can take [a honey jar] because they have kids who have allergies — the honey helps keep the swelling down.” Others leave cash for the 24- or 48-ounce glass jars of wildflower honey. “I set it out at Benjamin Moore, farmer’s markets from Destin to Seaside and in Franco’s Antiques in Fort Walton.”

A 24-ounce jar runs $11 and a quart, $22.

Local beekeepers are fond of each other and people interested in their trade. “Beekeepers are not in competition with each other,” said Peter Wright, 55, owner of The Ships Chandler, a marine supply company in Destin. He has a bookshelf of honey for sale there. Wright, who is friends with Holman, learned about taking care of bees from his father. His daughter, Amy Wright, 28, took over the family beekeeping hobby and turned it into a business, The Honey Hutch, in May of 2013.

A colony can house 50,000 to 60,000 worker bees, undeveloped females who do all the work to satisfy the queen.

16 February–March 2014

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Destin’s Own Local Honey, Collected by Artie Fortner Sold at Ace Hardware of South Walton in Miramar Beach and Designer Consigners of Destin (850) 865-4191

Ken Holman’s Sold at Seaside Farmer’s Market, Benjamin Moore Paint in Destin, Franco’s Antiques in Fort Walton Beach (850) 259-1561

The Honey Hutch 646 East Highway 98 (850) 499-6528

The Honey Pot and Café 4014 Commons Drive West, Suite 102 (850) 833-8885

Mermaid Maggie’s Destin Honey Sold at Dewey Destin’s Bayside, Harry T’s, Champa Shop, Destin Ice and Seafood Market & Deli, Mellow Mushroom (850) 269-2049

Honey is all the buzz in Destin these days. The Honey Pot (left) owned by the Waits family and The Honey Hutch (far left) operated by the Wrights (Amy Wright pictured here) are two of several family-owned businesses that keep bees to make and sell homemade candles, soaps (above), lotions and even face scrubs in addition to locally harvested honey.

Photos by Scott Holstein

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com February–March 2014

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made in the ec The Honey Hutch produces local wildflower, red clover and Gallberry honey from 50 hives in the Destin area. The Tupelo honey comes from a beekeeper in Apalachicola. In a week, Wright can harvest 25 gallons of honey and distributes to stores and restaurants. She makes honey butter too. “Bees make three times more honey than they need to survive,” said Amy Wright. “I definitely take pride in our wildflower. It’s dark and rich.”

Honey is medicinal and healing, explained Wright. While visiting her father during his recovery from open-heart surgery at the University of Alabama at Birmingham Health System, she discovered the hospital used honey for wound care.

This news became the inspiration for her to take the family hobby and turn it into a business. “Honey is antibacterial, helps heal a wound or burn and has many benefits for allergies, too. There are so many cool things about honey.”

The Honey Hutch offers honey for purchase online, at farmer’s markets and the Destin Seafood Festival. “Bees making honey is such a beautiful process,” said Wright. “To me it’s the cycle of life. They produce honey which allows us to feed off their honey.”

Beekeeper Artie Fortner (opposite) tends to what he calls "a perfect society;" Maggie Roberts (above) sells their "gold" harvested

by Mac McFarland under the name Mermaid Maggie's at a few shops and restaurants such as Dewey Destin's on Highway 98.

The Honey Pot also opened up shop in May of 2013 in Destin. Run by father and son, Jerry and Jared Waits, in addition to bottles of honey the store offers its Bee Renewed line of honey-based soaps, candles and lotion products made while customers watch. The Honey Pot also offers a bee removal service for bees that swarm unwelcomed into yards or businesses.

In the spring, colonies tend to swarm or congregate on a tree limb or side of a building due to overcrowding. Swarming is a natural way of creating new colonies and part of the reproductive cycle. “You have to try to prevent them from swarming,” said Artie Fortner, 59, a backyard beekeeper. “If they do, you have to hunt them down and take care of the 10,000 bees all in one wad — bigger than a basketball.”

Getting the bees back into the main hive box with the queen can include delicately sucking worker bees down with a slow-speed vacuum cleaner. “The best thing to do is put a double white sheet on the ground right under them with a couple sticks dipped in honey,” said Fortner. “Cut the tree branches below them so they can make a clear fall into the bed. Put a rope around the limb and jerk on the rope. When

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rench The

Laundry A Dry Cleaner and More

‘‘ Photos By Scott Holstein

They are a perfect society.

That’s what impresses me most. There are no welfare recipients. They all work. They have to. Out of 10,000 bees there will only be maybe 200 drones, males, in the hive.

By the end of summer they are booted out of town.”

they fall down in the hive box the ones not in the box will march right in there like soldiers in the army.”

Fortner’s first encounter with bees captured his imagination. When he was a 20-year-old carpenter, he cut down an oak tree with a hollowed base. “There was a huge beehive in the bottom of it. I robbed their honey,” he said. Although covered in angry bees he was not intimidated.

He was captivated. The bees were only mad with him for taking their honey. Five years ago he partnered with beekeeper Mitzi Richardson, owner of Ace Hardware on Main Street, to make honey.

Along Bayou Drive — across from the Clary Estate in old Destin — Mac McFarland, 78, offers honey jars right outside his front door.

Partners with his son, Jeff, they help Fortner maintain his hives and have grown their honey business, under the name Mermaid Maggie, to pro— Artie Fortner duce 2,000 pounds a year. “Honey is one of the few foods in the world that won’t spoil,” said Mac McFarland, who has seven years experience. “It’s fascinating the way bees do things. When they are in the process of collecting the pollen and landing with their bags of pollen you can see it glowing … almost like a couple taillights near their hind legs.”

Starting up a hive is easy. Depending on the equipment and number of bees, the local price ranges from $100 to $300. “Once you get them started it’s sort of like rabbits. They multiply rapidly,” said McFarland. “The queen may live for four years, but she’s not productive for all those years. Usually it’s best to replace a queen every year. Worker bees last about 42 days.”

As far as a common fear people have about getting stung by bees, McFarland said, “Generally speaking, bees don’t sting unless they feel you are endangering their hive. Unless you are allergic to bees, a bee sting isn’t all that terrible.”

Added Artie Fortner, “They are a perfect society. That’s what impresses me most. There are no welfare recipients. They all work. They have to. Out of 10,000 bees there will only be maybe 200 drones, males, in the hive. By the end of summer they are booted out of town.” ec

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19

what’s haute Put a kick in your step this spring and support a great cause at the best bash on the beach — the Emerald Coast Cattle Barons’ Ball. This year’s seventh annual shindig is set for Saturday, March 15, at the Linkside Center in Sandestin, and we have rounded up everything you need to look good from head to toe as you lasso a good time while giving cancer the (cute cowgirl) boot. Giddy-up!

Get Necked Out Fringe Fun

Ride off into the sunset in style in this Cropped Vegan Suede Fringe Jacket by September Sun, $55 at Retail Therapy.

Your look will be on fire with this Rondell turquoise bead and flame painted metal necklace by Jill White Jewelry, $135.

Wear it alone or layer on your Western charm with this earthy piece teeming with turquoise stones and featuring a bronze-flamed cross pendant wrapped in copper, $190.

Hip Hips

Up your two-step fun factor in this spirited boho-chic Camel Suede Fringe Skirt by September Sun $45. Purchase at Retail Therapy and find more funloving designs on Facebook at “shop September Sun.”

A fashionable evening is within reach with this handmade leather Rings Clutch. Made in Mexico, it features convenient finger holes adorned with turquoise stones and has a fabric lining and zipper closure. $178 at Mercantile in Seaside

Brace Yourself for Beauty

Stick ’em up! Especially if they are adorned in these beautiful leather and hand-forged precious metal cuff bracelets by local designer Annie Parker of Santa Rosa Beach. $95 for bronze and $195 for sterling silver. Purchase online at annieparkerjewelry. com and in select Emerald Coast boutiques.

Hats Off

We tip ours to Today’s Boutique in Destin for becoming the “go to” boutique for western-inspired hats.

They carry several design styles and colors embellished with leopard, rhinestone and even seashells, such as this one by Whittal & Shon, $101.

Reboot

Buckle Up

You will look strapping in this distressed Hudson leather belt with oxidized metal studs, weathered single-prong metal buckle. $66 at Mercantile in Seaside

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Give cancer the boot with these darling Dawson cowboy boots in distressed turquoise and brown leather featuring exquisite stitching, a soft insole for an extra comfortable fit and convenient side pulls. Calf height is 13 inches and shaft opening is 14 inches. $385 at Mercantile in Seaside

Photos by Scott Holstein (Jacket, Skirt, Necklace, clutch, Bracelets and Hat) and courtesy Jenna Conley (belt and Boot)

Grab and Go

Anchors | Smith | Grimsley Proudly serving the community for over 50 years

Lawyers from the Community, for the Community.

Anchors Smith Grimsley is comprised of eleven lawyers with deep, life-long ties to the Northwest Florida community.

Our law firm provides a full range of legal services throughout the Florida Panhandle. By combining over two centuries of collective legal experience that crosses a broad range of practice areas with an unparalleled insight into the legal, social and political environment of Northwest Florida, the lawyers at ASG are able to service the many and varied needs of our clients. The lawyers and staff of ASG invite you to E XPERIENCE O UR E XPERIENCE .

• Real Property Transactions, Litigation, Development and Foreclosures • General Civil Law and Trials • Banking Law • Commercial and Business Transactions and Litigation • Family Law, Divorce and Child Custody • Estate Planning • Probate and Guardianship • Criminal Law, Trials and DUI • Construction and Lien Law • Collection and Creditor’s Rights • Personal Injury and Wrongful Death • Bankruptcy • Landlord / Tenant

Anchors | Smith | Grimsley, plc 909 Mar Walt Drive, Suite 1014 | Fort Walton Beach, Fla. 850.863.4064 | asglegal.com EmeraldCoastMagazine.com February–March 2014

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well-worded

‘Reflecting’ Life

Local author, nurse, yoga instructor shares insights, learning

By Thomas J. Monigan

E

d Dailey will be the first to tell you that keeping yourself open to inspiration is the key to finding the spark that can ignite a major project. During the past two decades Dailey’s personal and professional life has become jam-packed with activity revolving around physical, mental and spiritual health. “For a couple of years now, people have been telling me I should write a book, and I just sort of pushed it aside, saying I never really had the time,” he recalled last summer. “It was in August 2012 that I came out of a meditation and it was like, ‘You need to write the book.’ And I went over to the computer and banged out the first 40 pages within a matter of an hour.”

What eventually materialized was “Dailey Reflections on Life,” in which the author shares personal insights, life experiences, yoga instruction, poetry and even a recipe for a Summer Juice Cooler.

“We edited it down to 108 entries because the number 108 is very significant in Hindu philosophy,” Dailey said, “and this is the first of a four-book series that will be published during the next two to three years.”

As a graduate and faculty member of the Urban Zen Integrative Therapy Program, Dailey brought Urban Zen to Sacred Heart Hospital on the Emerald Coast, where he worked as an operating room nurse. His 20-plus years of nursing includes post-surgical care, home care, psychiatry, oncology, integrative medicine and the operating room.

“Nurses are educators, primarily,” Dailey said, “so

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Excerpt from “Dailey Reflections on Life” “I have never grown by the things that have come easy.

As a culture, we have to realize the importance of the difficult things in our life. These experiences grow our roots; they grow our hearts and souls, too.

“We will cheat ourselves if we dance only with the easy things in life. Our roots will grow weak, and we will become less vibrant.”

I’m really interested in helping to educate people on how to live a healthier lifestyle.”

In addition to teaching yoga and training yoga teachers, Dailey makes national and international presentations for Young Living Essential Oils. Each entry in his new book contains a recommendation for use of an essential oil.

“We all have very busy lifestyles,” Dailey said, “so for me to sit down and write a book that takes you hours to read each day doesn’t make much sense. That’s why we used the daily reflection format, so you can read a page or two and you can keep that in your consciousness for a day or several days. I wanted to make something that was simple, but profound, and inspiring all at the same time.”

Writing took about six months from start to finish.

“Every part of it was fun,” Dailey said.

“It was spending the time being creative in a different manner which I had not been used to. I mean, I had never written anything in my lifetime. The whole process was really fun, seeing the whole process grow from an idea to a physical product — when I got the first proof, it was like, ‘Oh my God, I really wrote this.’ ” “Dailey Reflections on Life” hopes to achieve one basic goal, according to its author. “I want to inspire people to look at their own lives and to be happier,” Dailey said. “Very often we listen, but we don’t really hear, and we look, but we don’t really see. We need to refine our ability to take in information and not be in the past or in the future, but to be really, truly, present.” ec

Photos by Scott Holstein

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EmeraldCoastMagazine.com February–March 2014

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personality

Odom’s Destiny

Reflections on life, business and politics

By Linda Kleindienst

I

n the fall of 2012, developer and local wunderkind Jay Odom sat in his Destin office, talking about his life, his business, the pitfalls he has successfully negotiated and the others that have thrown him off course. He paused, stared at a wall of project drawings and declared, “Politics is an ugly business.”

At the time, he was referring to the political and legal miasma he managed to survive after facing state criminal charges in 2009 that stemmed from an alleged conspiracy involving state budget dollars and a building Odom owned. The grand theft charges were dropped in 2011, but the fallout had far reaching impact.

“I was out $1 million. It was a bad two years. I was getting divorced. At the same time the economy went to hell, so I was going broke and I was being pursued for something I didn’t do.

It was not a pleasant time in my life,” he said.

Little did Odom know that six months after that October interview he would be sentenced to six months in a federal prison and ordered to pay a $46,000 fine after pleading guilty to skirting federal election campaign limits in 2007 by getting family and friends to donate $23,000 to Republican Mike Huckabee’s presidential campaign and then personally reimbursing them.

At his April 2013 sentencing in a Pensacola federal courtroom, Odom, 57, said, “I pled guilty because I am guilty. I’m deeply sorry for what I have done and the pain it has caused my friends, family and employees. I hope one day to regain the trust of my friends, family and community that I once had.”

Odom has often been a lightning rod for controversy. He is fully aware of it, saying, “It wasn’t my intention. There is a lot of envy.”

An ambitious and shrewd entrepreneur, Odom learned to doggedly work the political system as he forged ahead with development projects from the coast up into the interior of Walton County. Along the way he made friends and enemies, survived economic ups and downs, made money and lost it, befriended charities and politicians.

His Crystal Beach Development company has had high profile projects in Walton and Okaloosa counties, including Water’s Edge and Destiny By The Sea. He worked 15 years to rehab Uptown Station in Fort Walton Beach, built Destin Jet and embarked on a giant development called Hammock Bay in Freeport.

The Beginnings Born in Japan while his father served in the U.S. Air Force — he was born on Good Friday 1956 and delivered by a doctor whose

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Developer Jay last name was Easter — Odom arrived Odom in happier on the Emerald Coast when he was six days, before being sentenced to six weeks old. He went to Florida Atlantic months in federal University to become an ocean engiprison for election neer and after graduation worked in the violations.

Gulf oil fields for five years. Then he decided he had enough of that.

“I looked around and I saw people seemed to be doing pretty good in real estate,” he recalled. “I moved to Austin, because at the time it seemed to be the hotbed of real estate. I went from a good paying job in the oil field to a $4-an-hour internship at Henry S. Miller, making Xerox copies and learning the business.”

Eventually he moved into sales for Miller, then the third largest commercial real estate operation in the nation. But it was on a one-week trip back home to Florida that Odom embarked on what would become his lucrative Northwest Florida development business. He met the Henderson family from Pensacola and made a deal to buy a package of undeveloped lots along a five-mile stretch of beach the family had purchased in the 1930s.

It was 1987 and the 200 lots were platted, but there were no roads, sewer or water. Odom made the deal with no money in his pocket and, at the time, no ready prospect for being able to pay for the lots.

“I had NO money,” Odom said. “But the stars were aligned and (the Hendersons) agreed to owner finance, and some other things took place that allowed me to pre-sell a bunch of lots before I had to close on them. It was about a $1.7 million transaction, and I had a hundred dollars to my name.”

Photo by Scott Holstein (Odom)

Photo Courtesy Crystal Beach Development

But getting those plots ready for sale marked the first time that Odom butted heads with the Destin establishment, and the experience taught him the value of having political prowess.

“I had to pull down trees and put in water and sewer. But basically, their attitude was, ‘We’re gonna kick your ass around a little bit, but you need to get your trick book in Texas. We don’t really need you here.’ And, I was saying, ‘I need to put these roads in so people can get to these lots,’ ” Odom remembered.

“I learned a whole lot about politics in a hurry. If you’re going to be in the development business, you need to understand the political system or die. It’s been quite an education over the years.”

His sister bought the first Crystal Beach lot for $12,000. His office was a “big, ugly” blue Ford pickup with a stick shift and a cardboard box that the front passenger seat belt kept in place. His mother was his secretary and bookkeeper. Eventually he moved into an abandoned house on a 50-acre site with 1,000 feet of Gulf front, renting it for $100 a month from the Hendersons for 10 years.

Mixing Business and Politics Another political head-butting came with “Odom’s Curve” in the early 1990s, when Odom fought to move U.S. 98 away from the coast to provide more beachfront property for development in Destiny By The Sea. He won the battle. One of his supporters was Ray Sansom, chairman of the Okaloosa County Commission who would later be elected to the state House and then become House speaker.

Yet another politically volatile project involved a facility at the Destin airport, where Odom planned to sell gas and rent cars. A $6 million plan (funded by the Legislature) to give up some of his airport space to the Northwest Florida State College for use as a hurricanesafe facility led to criminal charges and cost Sansom his job as House speaker and Bob Richburg his post as college president. Sansom also lost his job at the college.

Odom and Sansom were charged with grand theft and conspiracy to commit grand theft. The project was axed and the money stayed safe in the state treasury — but in 2011, two years after they were filed, the charges against Odom and Sansom were dropped in midtrial for lack of evidence of an alleged conspiracy.

“It tarnished me for awhile and financially beat me up, but I’m able to recover,” Odom said in October of 2012. He characterized it as “all that mess that took place a Hammock Bay few years ago,” but he remained bitter about the is Odom’s most charges, saying, “I’ve been collateral damage on ambitious project. The some bad political things. I got indicted for noth3,000 acres in ing. The state had to pay Bob and Ray’s legal fees.

Freeport have The college had to pay Bob a big check for wrongroom for 5,000 homes. ful termination. But the person the state didn’t have to pay anything to for anything was me.”

His intent, he maintained, was pure — to give Destin’s first responders a place to ride out hurricanes classified Category 3 and above instead of being forced to cross the bridge to the mainland until it would be safe to return and respond to emergency calls for help. The state had built several similar shelters in hurricane prone areas, why not Destin?

“Destin has no hurricane center still in the city, to this day. Statistics show most people die after the hurricane because they can’t get help,” he said.

Odom went ahead and built his terminal facility to withstand a Category 5 hurricane and said bluntly, “If anyone is looking to get out of the wind, don’t come to me.”

Hammock Bay It’s Odom’s most ambitious project yet, and it’s what he originally wanted his interview to focus on.

“I’m not promoting a feature story on Jay Odom. If that’s where it gets to, I’m okay with that. But my goal was (to discuss) a huge project up in Freeport called Hammock Bay,” he said.

It is large — 3,000 acres with the potential for 5,000 homeowners. But Odom said his proudest achievement there is the development of a world-class sports complex that involved his company, the city, the county and the state “all coming together to create something that any one of those groups by themselves wouldn’t or couldn’t have done.”

His vision was for a “top notch” sports park that everyone in the county could use, an economic generator that would attract traveling teams. The maintenance would be paid for by Hammock Bay homeowners at the rate of $5 a month for each home. He calls it a model public/private partnership.

“Eventually there will be thousands of people paying that $5,” he said. “I gave the land to the city.”

When it came time for the city to put construction of the 60-acre park out to bid, Odom said he placed a bid to build it.

“I couldn’t afford for the park not to be nice,” he said. “It was a sealed bid — our bid was over $1 million lower than the next closest. We upgraded everything, spent double the amount of money required on landscaping. If I had to eat a little to get the park done, it was an asset for Hammock Bay.” No Apologies “People say I got preferential treatment. Well, I worked my (expletive deleted) ass off,” Odom said. “On most of my projects I had to work two or three times as hard as a normal person would because of the scrutiny. I worked hard and I worked long and I worked smart and I did more work than other people. It was never my goal to have a name that people knew. Doing that makes everything you do harder, not easier,” Odom said.

On reflection, he added, “I got into politics heavily. I’m just not a politician.” ec

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scene ▪ As a result of a successful Best of the Emerald Coast 2013 award event, EC Magazine and Rowland Publishing, Inc. presented a check for $55,000 to the Junior League of the Emerald Coast.

This is just a little of what we’ve seen and heard on the EC scene …

New News …

▪ Ben Merrell, owner of Power Up Watersports, competed against 66 others (chosen out of 2,700 contenders) to take third place in the World Flyboard Championship in Doha, Qatar.

Melissa Robinson, Deb Norine, Christi Powell, Tinnie Coupe, Leonard Olson, Rachel Rehm

launched a Think Pink Promotion to raise funds and awareness in the Emerald Coast market to fight breast cancer. The promotion — which was published in a two-page special edition of EC Magazine’s What’s Haute column — encouraged potential guests to stave off cancer by reducing stress with a vacation stay.

John Russell, Scott Russell, Shelby Schuler

▪ Russell & Russell, a full-service hospitality consulting firm owned by John Russell and Scott Russell based in Northwest Florida, has formed Russell Vacation Rentals. Shelby Schuler of Seagrove Beach has been hired as director of sales.

Kudos and Congratulations …

▪ Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa has been recognized with the TripAdvisor GreenLeader Bronze title for efforts to decrease its carbon footprint and make the resort a more eco-friendly property. Over the past three years, the Hilton has invested more than $9 million to decrease its carbon footprint and protect the natural wildlife that surrounds the beachfront property. It also has been chosen by the readers of Meetings & Conventions magazine as a 2013 Gold Key award winner, marking the 15th year the resort has earned the prestigious honor.

▪ Shelter House, the domestic violence center serving Okaloosa and Walton counties, has recognized Hurlburt Airman’s Voice, an organization that provides airmen with opportunities and resources that exemplify the Air Force Core Values through community service, education, activities and leadership, for its volunteer support to Shelter House.

▪ Seaside Neighborhood School is the overall winner of the sixth annual Emerald Coast BEST Robotics competition held at the University of West Florida. Remotecontrolled robots, built by young scientists from 11 area middle and high schools, were put to the test in front of a live audience.

Congrats to these curious young minds and to the Gulf Power Company for sponsoring the event.

▪ My Vacation Haven presented caregivers and the director of the Sacred Heart Foundation with a bouquet of pink balloons along with a check for $1,000.

For the second year, My Vacation Haven

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Shelter House Executive Director Michelle Sperzel, A1C Rayna Yamamoto of Hurlburt Airman’s Voice and Shelter House Volunteer Coordinator Cindy Holmes

Christie Owens, Tracy Mulligan, Darla Harrison, Angela Mason, Stacey Brady, Chelsea Rye, Rhonda Murray, Chris St. John

▪ The Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation (DCWAF) has received a $288,640 grant from BP’s Gulf Seafood & Tourism Promotional Fund. The grant was given as part of the oil giant’s promotional fund to support programs that enhance and promote Gulf coast seafood and tourism. The grant will allow DCWAF to enhance the auction and culinary events as well as increase their marketing and promotion activities.

New Faces …

▪ Elephant Walk of Sandestin has hired Tyler Hysom as its new restaurant manager. Hysom began his Hysom professional relationship with Elephant Walk owners Tom Rice and Wayne Lewis in 2007, when he joined the staff at Elephant Walk’s sister restaurant, Marlin Grill at The Village of Baytowne Wharf.

▪ Blue Marlin Realty Group welcomes three realtors to its growing team. Wendy Hayden relocated to the area from Atlanta, previously worked in sales, property management and leasing and has a strong background of managing 200 long-term rentals from Destin to Navarre. Trish Sams was born and raised in Columbia, S.C., received her graduate legal secretarial degree from Midlands Tech and earned a graduate business degree from Limestone College. She has worked at DEP Realty and Keller Williams Emerald Coast Realty. Erin Martin, originally from Birmingham, Ala., graduated from the University of Alabama and has lived in the area for 11 years. She has worked in the real estate business for nine years with Keller Williams and 100% Realty Inc. ec

Hayden

Sams

Martin

photo Courtesy Scott Lisenbe of Scottylane Photography (Ben Merrell), Allison Yii ANd courtesy of Russell Vacation Rentals, My Vacation Haven (Sacred Heart Foundation), Shelter House, Clint Viehman (Best of EC), Whitney Lee Ladwig (Hysom), Blue Marlin Realty (Hayden, Sams and Martin)

Ben Merrell, Owner of Power Up Watersports

WOMEN’S

PROFESSIONAL *PROFILES*

Women at Work

What better time than March’s Women’s History Month to shine the spotlight on some of the region’s most accomplished female professionals? The U.S. Department of Labor reports that women comprise 47 percent of the national workforce — and more than 50 percent in the skilled professions. In this special section, we’re honoring the contributions of women in the workforce by sharing the career highlights of talented professionals from our area.

Prepare to be impressed. sponsored report

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WOMEN’S

PROFESSIONAL

Scott Holstein

*PROFILES*

Ava’s Attic Consignment Boutique Susan Henry and Courtney Hood what is your educational Background?

Susan has a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration from the University of South Carolina, and Courtney has a Bachelor of Science in apparel merchandising from Auburn University.

Your business has grown a lot recently.

Tell us about your success.

In five years of business we have expanded Ava’s Attic three times, reached 5,000 consignors, hired both a furniture painter and builder and launched our own line of chalk furniture paint.

What challenges have you faced growing your business?

Our greatest business hurdle was the summer and fall of the BP oil spill. Every business in our local community suffered greatly.

What do you wish your legacy to be?

We want Ava’s Attic to be remembered for our outstanding customer service — both to our consignors and our customers.

What do you like best about what you do?

We enjoy interacting with our customers and consignors.

We have built many personal relationships over the years.

Contact 12889 Emerald Coast Pkwy. | Miramar Beach | (850) 307-5162 | Find us on Facebook: facebook.com/AvasAtticConsignmentBoutique

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Sponsored Report

WOMEN’S

PROFESSIONAL

Scott Holstein

*PROFILES*

Goochie Poochie Doggie Resort & Spa Yuko Onishi, Owner

What inspired you to open Goochie Poochie?

I felt the Emerald Coast was in need of a place where pets could be pampered and pet parents could take their vacations or trips without worry and without being nervous. Now I have a home away from home for my own dogs — Coco, Hummer and Hershey — and for yours as well.

What challenges did you face along the way?

Starting a new business is always very exciting, but it’s also very challenging and filled with many hurdles. Since English is not my native language and the customs and traditions in America are very different from those in Japan, I had and still have much to learn. So I appreciate everyone’s patience with me. Regardless of these hurdles, I know that I’m working with a great team of dedicated professionals who love their own pets and yours too!

What do you enjoy about being a pet care pro?

You are a great role model for women in business. Who inspires you?

My role model would be my mother. She taught me to work hard, to respect everything and everyone, to be mindful and not wasteful, and to appreciate life.

What is your education background?

I attended Kansai Gaidai University located in Osaka, Japan. I received a B.A. degree in English. One of my biggest joys during my university program was an opportunity to spend a summer studying English in Honolulu, Hawaii.

You have enjoyed many successes. Share a moment with us.

The grand opening of Goochie Poochie is certainly one which has given me the opportunity to turn what I loved to do as a hobby into a career.

It’s great to have a profession dealing with clients, who are always so excited to meet and greet you every day ... especially when the food cart comes their way!

Contact 4601 Opa-locka Lane | Destin | (850) 460-7460 | goochiepoochiesparesort.com | info@goochiepoochiesparesort.com

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Sponsored Report

WOMEN’S

PROFESSIONAL *PROFILES*

Junior League of the Emerald Coast The Junior League of the Emerald Coast began in 1964 with five women led by Barbara Smith who were dedicated to making a difference in their community. Today it boasts a membership of nearly 300 Northwest Florida women from diverse backgrounds — from doctors to lawyers to small business owners to stay-at-home moms — who are committed to volunteerism and developing the skills needed to become civic and community leaders.

The organization is led by an 11-member board, and each year approximately 13 additional women are selected as committee chairs, giving them a unique opportunity to learn how to lead, train and organize — skills that can be directly applied to their work life, personal life and other not-forprofit organizations in our community.

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The Junior League has enriched the community throughout the years with its restoration of: the Camp Walton Schoolhouse, which opened as a museum in 1976; the Garnier’s Post Office in the 1980s; and the historic Gulfview Hotel in the early 2000s. It also established the Science/ Focus Center in Fort Walton Beach, which is now known as the Emerald Coast Science Center.

As a member of the Association of Junior Leagues International, the Junior League of the Emerald Coast is part of a team of 292 organizations from the U.S., Canada, Mexico and the United Kingdom. Local members benefit from being part of a global team by sharing ideas and learning of community projects that have been successful in other parts of the world.

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Child Clothing Project A focus for the Emerald Coast chapter is helping local at-risk children in need. Since 1979, the Child Clothing Project has been a signature annual event that pairs the Junior League with area retailers to provide new clothes to children on free and reduced lunch programs in the local community. The program began with 36 children from Fort Walton Beach elementary schools and has since expanded to obtaining a partnership with Target stores to provide wardrobes for over 300 plus elementary aged children in both Okaloosa and Walton counties, providing lunch and a morning of fun and games in addition to their shopping trip.

shirts, a jacket, a long-sleeved shirt, a pair of jeans and a pair of active pants — all things they are able to pick out on their own.

The children arrive by bus, are personally greeted by Junior League members and invited to select a book of their choice.

Then they are escorted into the store to shop. Each child shops for a new pair of shoes, socks, underwear, two short-sleeved

To join the Junior League of the Emerald Coast, donate to the cause or join in volunteer activities, please visit jlec.org or email hq@jlec.org. Please like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter and Instagram.

The children are selected with the help of guidance counselors at the individual schools. In 2013, 22 elementary schools in Okaloosa County and six in Walton County participated.

Lunch follows along with an afternoon of fun that can include animal encounters, games, arts and crafts, and more. Each active member of the Junior League sponsors one child for this project every year, but volunteers from local schools and organizations and local donors help make the event a success.

Contact Junior League of the Emerald Coast | (850) 862-2665 | jlec.com

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Sponsored Report

WOMEN’S

PROFESSIONAL

Howard Robinson

*PROFILES*

Destin Center for Cosmetic & Family Dentistry Julia Skinner, Tammy Barber, Stephanie Baya

What do you enjoy most about what you do?

Dr. Julia Skinner Tell us about a woman you admire.

A woman I admire in my life today is my mom. I know this is the cliché answer, but she is a resourceful and generous woman who has endured and overcome incredible odds to give her children opportunities she never had. She has made many sacrifices in her life and always put education and family first. I endeavor to one day be the mom that she is today.

What do you like best about being a dentist?

I like being a dentist because I am given the opportunity to meet so many people in my profession and hear about their experiences and challenges over the years as they return for checkups and dental visits.

We have so many patients with unique life stories, amazing careers or incredible traveling adventures, and it is always so interesting to hear the updates. My profession has given me a way to establish life-long friendships and connections with people not only in my community, but with those that travel and come to Destin seasonally.

Tammy Barber, Practice Administrator What do you consider your greatest triumph?

Having three great children.

What has been your greatest hurdle?

I am fortunate not to have had any hurdles. When I focus in on a goal, I always achieve it, because I have a fantastic support base.

The variety of tasks that I am faced with on any given day. You never know what is going to happen in a dental office.

Dr. Stephanie Baya What is your greatest personal triumph?

Becoming a dentist. It felt so good to achieve the long-term goals I set for myself back in high school.

what would you like to be remembered for?

I want my legacy to be the relationships I build throughout my life.

After I’m gone, I want to be remembered as a dependable friend and great parent.

what advice would you give your 16-yearold self?

Your parents are not as bad and embarrassing as you think they are!

What do you enjoy most about your field?

I love getting to meet many different people from many different walks of life every day and, hopefully, make a difference in their life, even if it’s a small one.

Do you have a role model?

My father. He was also a general dentist in this area and was so talented and loved by his patients while in practice. He’s the reason I’m a dentist today.

Contact Destin Center for Cosmetic & Family Dentistry | 4635 Gulfstarr Drive, Suite 200 | Destin | (850) 654-8665 | destindentist.com

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Sponsored Report

WOMEN’S

PROFESSIONAL

Jaqueline Ward Images

*PROFILES*

Bay Breeze Patio

Susan Kiley, Co-Owner what do you like most about owning a business along the emerald coast?

In many cases there is a deadline - a party, a wedding or family gathering - and we get excited about helping them achieve their desired result. In the end it is a win-win for us - we help people create a fabulous outdoor environment, and in many cases we make good friends.

was your goal to own your own business one day?

what has been the biggest surprise along the way?

The people are fabulous. The Emerald Coast is undoubtedly the most beautiful part of Florida, but it is the people here who make it such a special place.

No, it was not. I went to college thinking I would be a writer, either in marketing or journalism. I didn’t plan any of my moves. I started out in PR for a regional bank, moved to sales and marketing in the lawn and garden industry and ended my corporate life sourcing decorative lighting in China. All of the experiences along the way proved to be great training for owning a retail business.

What made you know you were ready to take the leap to own a business?

The former owners came to us and said we should buy them out. We decided it was time for a life change. We didn’t know anyone in the area, but I enjoy change and felt it was time.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

Wayne and I both traveled for a living for about 25 years. It is very hard to make good friends when you are never home. Now that we are able to stay in one place, we have an amazing group of friends and clients. When a person is choosing outdoor furniture and home décor, it is not a quick decision. Our clients spend hours with us, measuring spaces, trying different styles, selecting fabrics, colors and textures to create the perfect outdoor room for their lifestyle, budget and space.

We are surprised by how much we enjoy owning a retail store.

And, our business has enabled us to better connect with our community. We are involved with great organizations like Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation, Sinfonia Gulf Coast and Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation that help make this area even better. When you come right down to it, buying a retail business was the best move we ever made.

What are you looking forward to this year?

We are excited to be kicking off our 10th year in business. We’ll be celebrating with an anniversary party at the store the last weekend in March and invite the community to come out and celebrate with us. We’re looking forward to an exciting year of continued growth.

And I am also looking forward to serving as a board member for the International Casual Furnishings Association (IFCA) this year.

It is such an honor to be elected and join representatives from the premier furnishings manufacturers to help provide insight and direction to our industry’s leading association.

Contact 32 Forest Shore Drive | Miramar Beach | (850) 269-4666 | baybreezepatio.com

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com February–March 2014

33

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what is your educational background?

I obtained my bachelor’s degree in 1967 and my master’s degree in 1969 from Florida State University, both in anthropology/archaeology. I received my doctoral degree in 1972 in anthropology/archaeology from Washington State University.

what hurdles have you had to overcome?

for our region. In collaboration with leaders in a variety of industries, I want people to see firsthand the dedication UWF has to making our region a better place to live, work and visit.

what advice do you have for your 16-yearold self?

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Set your goals high, and stay the course.

When I began my career in archeology no one took the discipline seriously, let alone understood its significance. I wanted to make public archeology relevant, visible and celebrated in Northwest Florida. I learned very early on that staying committed to what you are passionate about is a vital component to success, no matter what discipline you are in.

what women in history do you most admire?

what is one of your biggest personal achievements?

what is your biggest career success story?

The first personal triumph would be receiving my Ph.D., but the highest honor of my life was being selected to serve as the president of the University of West Florida. I am incredibly fortunate that I have the opportunity to lead one of Northwest Florida’s most dynamic organizations.

what would you like to be remembered for?

I would like to be remembered for leading UWF through a transformative period of growth, allowing our institution to serve as an economic driver

Eleanor Roosevelt and Babe Didrikson Zaharias.

what do you like best about what you do?

I am grateful for the opportunity to play a role in transforming young lives.

My entire career has been in public service. My goal has been and always will be to serve the greater good by helping people understand our present and future by unlocking our past. My biggest success was building a premiere archeology program at UWF that is focused on our students and dedicated to hands-on learning.

Contact University of West Florida | 11000 University Pkwy. | Pensacola | (850) 474-2000 | uwf.edu

34 February–March 2014

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

happenings Events + Culture + Causes

spotlight

Photo Courtesy Northwest Florida State College

‘Memphis!’

What happens when a 1950s Memphis DJ with white listeners decides to play African-American music? Is Memphis ready for it? Is America? Inspired by the story of the legendary disc jockey Dewey Phillips and the music that became known as “rock ‘n’ roll.”

The Hollywood Reporter says this “wildly entertaining show wonderfully captures the spirit of these seminal figures who would go on to change the course of popular music.” It also rocked Broadway, earning four Tony Awards in 2010, including one for Best Musical.

The national tour of the Broadway hit will rock the Mattie Kelly Arts Center stage for one show only on Saturday, Feb. 22, at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets are $45 and can be reserved online at mattiekellyartscenter.org or by calling the box office at (850) 729-6000. — Zandra Wolfgram

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culture

A Lesson in Easy to create you-can’tmess-up mini masterpieces

By Zandra Wolfgram

See video at emeraldcoastmagazine.com 36 February–March 2014

Art

Encaustics with Helen Harris “Don’t worry, you can’t make a mistake!” assures Helen Harris from behind her paint-splattered apron to eight eager-eyed encaustic art newbies.

Seated at six-foot folding tables placed in a U-shape inside the Art Center in Fort Walton Beach, all eyes were on the 68-year-old as she introduced her students to the exciting art of encaustics — painting with hot beeswax.

Encaustic art is found on mummy tombs dating back to 100 A.D. In the 1990s it enjoyed a resurgence of sorts. The art form is forgiving and flexible, so you can create as simple or as complex a piece as you choose on different surfaces, including card, paper and even pottery.

Harris, an oil painter, is vice president of the Arts and Design Society (ADSO) and teaches encaustics at ADSO’s Arts Center as well as the Center for Lifelong Learning (CLL) in Fort Walton Beach. A history major with an art minor, she also gives a lecture course at CLL called “Human Aspects of the Civil War.” After an overview of equipment — any type of “hot palette,” such as an electric craft iron, hotplate or heated stylus; colored wax, a stylist “pen” and a collection of found object treasures that ranged from glass beads to the plastic netting from a bag of oranges — we were off to “iron” out the details of our 4 x 6-inch creations.

Some students tried their hand at landscape and still life compositions while others opted for anything goes abstract designs.

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

Artist Helen Harris demonstrates the art of encaustics also known as hot wax painting. Thanks to classes, such as the one offered at the Arts and Design Society in Fort Walton Beach, this old-time art form is enjoying a “hot” resurgence.

Ready, Set, Go and Create!

Arts and Design Society (ADSO) 17 First St. SE, Fort Walton Beach, (850) 244-1271 Offers year-round art classes, workshops and luncheon seminars in drawing, painting, encaustic and clay sculpture in its Arts Center studio.

Encaustics is $30–$60/person. Fees are discounted for members. All supplies provided for most classes.

Photos by Scott Holstein

The process is simple: Rub a wax stick onto your iron until it drips onto the paper, layering as many colors as you like, and sculpt the wax as you choose with the stylist or iron. You can create texture by layering small objects and fragments of fabric into your design by placing the paper on a hot plate surface, which keeps the wax wet. Once dry, gently buff your design with a paper towel, outline and shade with a stylist pen filled with India Ink and voile! You can “wax poetic” about your mini masterpiece.

There’s something giddy about breaking rules, and encaustics allows you to do just that. Melting colored crayons by heating them on a warm iron just seems deliciously wrong. Ironing plastic, putting paper on a pancake griddle, essentially making a mess.

This art class gives you permission to be a kid at heart and … well, play!

Classes and workshops in a range of materials and methods are offered year-round by local and visiting artists at the Arts Center on First Street. Check the ADSO website for dates, times and prices. ADSO members receive a discount.

As Modern English band says, “I’d stop the world to melt with you.” And, for the chance to create colorful original art in minutes with a mini iron, I would, too.

Glass Art with Mary Hong Destin artist Mary Hong hopes to shatter any fear of glass with her new glass art workshop called Where Glass Art Meets Canvas/Board, offered at the Bayou Arts Center in Santa Rosa Beach.

Hong, 48, who opened Mary Hong Studio Gallery in Grayton Beach in January 2013, marries her fascination with glass with her intrigue of found objects on the Emerald Coast. The result is dynamic, glass-encrusted mosaics that turn everything from old boards to surfboards into stunning art storyboards. And now you can learn to “paint

Mary Hong Studio Gallery The Shops of Grayton, 26 Logan Lane, Grayton Beach, (850) 231-1416 Offers private and group glass art workshops at the studio and at Bayou Arts Center in Santa Rosa Beach. $75 per person for Cultural Arts Alliance members, $85 for nonmembers, includes all supplies and tools required.

Ava’s Attic 12889 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Miramar Beach, (850) 424-6826 Offering monthly painting technique class for individuals and groups (up to 10). Light refreshments provided.

Bring your own bottle of wine and make a party out of it. $150 per person includes all supplies and a small object to paint (or bring your own). Price includes a starter kit in gallon paint can that includes: quarter of custom Ava’s Attic chalk paint, brush, sanding block and cloth.

Students at the Bayou Arts Center carefully choose the glass pieces, trinkets and treasures they will feature in their glass paintings; It’s crystal clear glass artist Mary Hong relishes sharing her expertise and passion for creating art out of glass; “Painting” with glass frees your imagination to sparkle and shine.

For more art classes at the Bayou Arts Center, visit the Cultural Arts Alliance website culturalartsalliance.org.

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com February–March 2014

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with glass” in group and private classes given personally by the South Walton 2014 Artist of the Year.

After a brief introduction and hands-on demonstrations of glass nippers, running pliers and sanding stones, nearly 30 glossyeyed students carefully picked and poked in clear plastic trays and tubs filled with broken wine bottles, tea cups, trinkets and treasures, searching for just the right piece to perfect their design on whitewashed wooden boards.

Soon ethereal mermaids and vibrant tropical fish seemed to shimmy on one table while an anime-eyed pug dog began to wiggle to life from the colorful shards of glass at another.

Hong leans over various shoulders, nudging a piece of glass here and adding a dab of glue there, all the time encouraging her students to give in to their inner Dale Chihuly.

“It’s all about you today. It’s whatever you want to do. It’s free,” she says.

The mood in the sunny room is light. Students admire one another’s creations as they nibble sweet treats and snacks. Hong encourages everyone to try their hand at nipping, scoring and cutting at least one piece of glass.

“When you pull your hand back you can hear the score, if you don’t hear it, don’t start over, just keep going and push harder,” she counsels.

During the second hour when the shining crosses, sparkling signs and shell-encrusted creations are nearing completion, Hong hollers one last instruction, “When you are about to do a happy dance it means it’s coming altogether. Pause — and then we’ll get the glue.”

A dab of weld bond glue (which dries clear) secures small items to the board or canvas, E6000 is suggested for anything “bigger than a marble.” After class, Hong applies an epoxy resin to each painting. Once dry, the glossy “glass-terpieces” are ready for pickup at Hong’s studio in 24 hours.

Romantic Painting Techniques with Trisha Griffin Trisha Griffin of Seagrove is just 26, but every month she ages very well. With five different “romantic” painting techniques — crackling, wet distressing, sanding, blocking and dry brushing — Griffin, who grew up surrounded by “old things” thanks to her mother’s antique business, teaches groups of up to 10 how to fearlessly transform home décor, furniture, picture frames, even mirrors into vintage works of art.

A spectrum of women ranging from social workers to realtors gathered into a workshop across the parking lot from Ava’s Attic’s Consignment Boutique where armoires, buffets and desks in various stages of transformation became “canvases” for each painting technique. Armed with gallon-paint cans filled 38 February–March 2014

Trisha Griffin’s top tips for trying your hand at painting techniques is to be confident and experiment; Blocking, crackling, sanding, dry brushing and wet brushing are five distinct techniques Griffin demonstrates in her two-hour “antique” painting workshop; Ava’s Attic Consignment Boutique in Miramar Beach sells furniture reinvented by Grffin’s “romantic vintage painting techniques” using the shop’s signature label paints and stains.

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

with brushes, cloths and a quart of the shop’s custom chalk paint, those who didn’t bring an object or small piece of furniture with them make quick work of choosing their “before” objects from a selection of candlesticks, frames, bookends and the like.

“Will the paint work on this?” one woman quizzes, holding up a filigreed metal lantern above her paper-covered worktable. “Yes!” Griffin assures, “You all have something different, some metal, some wood. This paint sticks to anything!”

Griffin tackled each technique by talking through each demonstration. She fielded questions, and then made her rounds around each worktable to be sure everyone was getting the paint lesson down pat. “I know it’s intimidating at first,” she assured, “but if you mess up you can just paint over it and start again. I’ve done that a ton of times.”

A petite blonde with an easy smile, Griffin looks more like a cover girl than a get-yourhands-dirty girl, but soon it’s clear, mixing it up with a can of paint puts her in her happy place. “I’m not one to sit on the sofa. Even on my days off I come in and paint. It relaxes me,” she says as she dips a white cloth into water to demonstrate wet distressing on a painted brass stand.

“See how it gets an old-world, foggy look?

That’s what you want,” Griffin urges her class as she begins gently rubbing another edge.

With each stroke of a brush, dab of cloth and buff of a sanding block the menagerie of second-hand home décor pieces slowly became magically made over into vintage objet d’art awash in soft hued paints with names like sea mist, sea foam and oysters.

Oohs and ahs confirmed Griffin’s approval.

“Ooh, you see? These candlesticks came out beautifully. We could sell these in the shop for at least $50,” she said, her blue eyes conspiring.

And when not used for classes, that’s exactly what happens in the paint-splattered workshop space. Ironically, the Miramar Beach-based resale shop found it could sell more “new” consigned furniture more quickly when they aged each piece using distressing techniques with a fresh coat of chalk paint.

Eventually, they began to brand the paint under the shop’s name and sell it to customers eager to try their hand at reinventing furniture at home.

Since the classes began, even more Ava’s Attic paint (and now a line of stains) is working its way onto furniture and walls all along the Emerald Coast. “We love sharing what we know with our customers, and it’s a lot of fun, too,” Griffin said with a smile as she dabbed at a well-worn brush. “It’s like this ratty brush I use for staining, the more you use it, the better it gets.” ec

Photos by Jaqueline Ward Images

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thecalendar +events

Todd Eric Allen’s New Works Project

february + march

Feb. 21–23 Northwest Florida Ballet (NFB) Artistic Director Todd Eric Allen presents The New Works Project, an evening of artistic collaboration and innovation. The Ballet will convert its grand studio into a black box theater and feature works by emerging artists and choreographers.

The weekend begins with a reception showcasing 34 local artists in a special ballet-themed exhibition by Okaloosa Public Arts. NFB also will premiere three new works by local choreographers and a special matinee performance featuring work of aspiring young choreographers from NFB’s pre-professional program. $28 adults, $14 children. Fri-Sat 7:30 p.m., Sat-Sun 2:30 p.m.

40 February–March 2014

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+events

An Evening with Patti LuPone March 29 Patti LuPone, the incomparable

star of Broadway, television and the silver screen will take the stage at the Emerald Coast Convention Center for a gala evening benefitting Sinfonia Gulf Coast. With tour de force tunes such as her famous rendition of “Coulda, Shoulda, Woulda” and many more.

LuPone will take the audience down memory lane of her favorite Broadway melodies.

Gala table seating and single seats are available $49.50 for regular seating and $125 for table seating. To purchase tickets call (850) 269-7129 or visit SinfoniaGulfCoast.org.

This event will sell out, so arrange for your tickets today.

Trail, Santa Rosa Beach. Mon 9 a.m.–8 p.m., Tue–Sat 9 a.m.-5 p.m. (850) 267-2809

Compiled by Zandra Wolfgram

Feb. 1–28

For more events in the EC, visit emeraldcoastmagazine.com.

Arts and Design Society Window Art Display Come see the oils, encuastics and acrylic works of artist Helen Harris. FREE. Art Center, 17 First St., S.E., Fort Walton Beach.

(850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

+events

Emerald Coast Cattle Barons’ Ball 2014

Feb. 1

Don Andrews Watercolor Workshop Arts and Design Society (ADSO) presents a one-day watercolor workshop by Don Andrews, a national award-winning watercolorist, for beginning through advanced watercolor enthusiasts called Beginning Landscapes. $120 for ADSO members, $130 for non-members. Students provide own supplies. Art Center, 17 First St., S.E., Fort Walton Beach. 9 a.m.–4 p.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

March 15 You can help give cancer the boot at the 7th Annual Emerald Coast Cattle Barons’ Ball on Saturday, March 15, in Linkside’s “Urban Cowboy Honky Tonk & Dance Hall” at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort. With a casual Western theme, the highenergy event will feature live entertainment by The Modern Eldorados, country line dancing, live and silent auctions, and gaming.

Fancy vittles will be served up by Carrabba’s Italian Grill, Fleming’s Steak House, The Eventful Planner, SunQuest Cruise’s Solaris and Another Broken Egg Café. Appetizers and desserts will be prepared by Dine

By Design, Everything’s Candy and KaraBoo Bakery.

Feb. 2

Super Bowl Parties at Sandestin Enjoy two Super Bowl “tailgate” parties at Sandestin. Get your favorite beverages and football fare from the Marina Bar and Grill and cheer on your favorite team. Bar will run on-going draft specials and time out shots.

At Fat Tuesdays enjoy specials on domestic and import beers and daiquiris. Don’t forget the wings, a Baytowne favorite and best around. FREE. Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. West, Miramar Beach. 5 p.m. (850) 267-7778, Sandestin.com/events

Feb. 7

‘Stars of Tomorrow’ This annual event presented by Northwest Florida Symphony Orchestra showcases some of the most talented young musicians in our region — winners of the annual Northwest Florida Symphony Guild Concerto competition — and will also include the rare opportunity to hear George Frideric Handel’s most popular instrumental work, Water Music, performed live. $22.50 and $16 for military and 18 and under. Mattie Kelly Performing Arts Center, 100 College Blvd., Niceville. (850) 729-6000, nfwymphony.org

The Ball will benefit the American Cancer Society by raising funds for cancer research, advocacy, education and patient services. For more information contact Kay Phelan at (850) 376-1551, or email inquiries to kayphelan@earthlink.net.

Photo BY MICHAEL CAGE PHOTOGRAPHY (Cattle Baron’s Ball), Robert Barton (NFB) and Rahav Segev (LuPone)

Feb. 7–9

Wednesdays

Wednesday Night Concert Series Enjoy the continuation of the Wednesday Night Concert Series through the month of October.

The Village will be tantalizing your musical taste buds with musicians to entertain all of our guests! FREE. The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. West, Miramar Beach. 6–8 p.m.

(866) 912-3224, baytownewharf.com

Third Friday

Downtown Art Walk Stroll Fort Walton Beach’s historic district and visit merchants from participating shops and restaurants while enjoying art demonstrations, live music, complimentary refreshments and special discounts. FREE.

Downtown Fort Walton Beach. 5:30–8:30 p.m.

For more information, contact Jennifer Bundrick at downtownfwbartwalk@gmail.com.

Saturdays

Artist Bazaar Shop local artists, craftspeople and artisan vendors at the Artists at Gulf Place at their new weekly Artist Bazaar. FREE. Gulf Place on 30A and 393. Saturdays from 10:30 a.m.–3 p.m.

30aArtistBazaar.com.

Feb. 1–28

Lori Drew Art Exhibit Friends of the Coastal Branch Library presents an exhibit of Lori Drew’s acrylics on canvas.

FREE. Coastal Branch Library, 437 Greenway

55th Annual Beaux Arts Exhibition In partnership with the Arts & Design Society, the Westwood Retirement Community hosts this exhibition, featuring a host of the Emerald Coast’s area’s fine artists. FREE. 1001 Mar Walt Drive, Fort Walton Beach. Reception on Sun, 2–4 p.m. (850) 582-1329, artsdesignsociety.org

Feb. 7–9

Wine, Women & Shoes Put your best foot forward for a great cause at this three-day event designed for women who love fine wine, great style and supporting a great cause. Enjoy exclusive vintner dinners Friday prepared by local celebrity chefs in private homes, followed by a Wine Tasting at Kwiker Liquor on Saturday and the signature event featuring delicious wines, tasty treats, silent auction and a fashion show EmeraldCoastMagazine.com February–March 2014

41

thecalendar from W by Worth on Sunday. $65. Magnolia Ballroom at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort from 2–5 p.m. Proceeds benefit Sinfonia Gulf Coast’s Music Education and its Arts in Medicine collaboration with Sacred Heart Hospital on the Emerald Coast. (850) 269-7229, winewomenandshoes.com/sinfonia

BIG CITY OPERA W I T H S M A L L TOW N C H A R M

Feb. 10–12

Jef Raasch Sculpture Workshop The Arts and Design Society (ADSO) presents a three-day workshop conducted by Milwaukee artist Jef Rausch, known for his work using animals and the human form as his models. This is a repeat engagement; this time, the subject is Timber Boxes. $220 for ADSO members, $255 for non-members, plus a $15 supply (clay and firing) fee. A deposit of $110 is required upon registration. Art Center, 17 First St., S.E., Fort Walton Beach. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

Feb. 14–15

The 25th Annual Sandestin Gumbo Cook-off Please your palate while restaurants and businesses vie for the title of “Area’s Best” gumbo. Cast your vote while enjoying great food, live Zydeco music and family entertainment. $20. The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. West, Miramar Beach. Noon–4 p.m. (866) 912-3224, sandestin.com/gumbo

Feb. 14–17

Silver Sands Premium Outlets Presidents’ Day Sale Check out the annual Presidents’ Day Sale at Silver Sands Premium Outlets for extra discounts on top of the center’s regular savings (up to 65 percent) every day. FREE. Silver Sands Premium Outlets, 10562 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Destin. Mon–Fri 10 a.m.–9 p.m., Sun 10 a.m.–6 p.m. (850) 654-9771, premiumoutlets.com/silversands

Feb. 18–28

‘Figure It’ Art Show This art exhibit by the Arts and Design Society will feature artwork, in any medium, depicting the human figure. FREE. Art Center, 17 First St. S.E., Fort Walton Beach. Reception Feb. 21, 6–8 p.m. Gallery hours: Tue–Fri, Noon–4 p.m.; Sat, 1–4 p.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

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Feb. 22

Rock the Road 5K Join the second annual Rock the Road 5K run and 1K Fun Run for kids 12 and under at the Baytowne Marina at Sandestin to support the local Junior League of the Emerald Coast. The event is followed by a post-race celebration featuring live music, complimentary beer and food, and an awards ceremony. See website for race times and registration fees. Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, 9300 US Highway 98 W Destin. (866) 912-3224, jlec.org

Feb. 26

Arts and Design Society Speaker Luncheon Local artist Fuller Brown will present a talk on portrait painting and the use of many media to achieve a likeness. $12. Reservations made after Feb. 24, $15. Art Center, 17 First St., S.E., Fort Walton Beach. 11:30 a.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

March 1–31

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Arts and Design Society Window Art Display Come see the works of artist Pat Federinko, who specializes in paint, pottery, glass and oils. FREE. Art Center, 17 First St., S.E., Fort Walton Beach. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

March 2 © 2013 Oldemark LLC

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Mardi Gras Dog Parade Join Sandestin for the 11th annual Mardi Gras dog parade. The streets will be filled with costumed dogs and their humans tossing a myriad of throws, beads and parade favors. FREE. The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Miramar Beach.

2 p.m. (850) 267-8117, baytownewharf.com

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EmeraldCoastMagazine.com February–March 2014

43

thecalendar SPRING ’14

LOVE YOUR

STYLE

+events

Seaside School Half Marathon & 5K Run February 28–March 2 Get ready, set and race to help support the Seaside Neighborhood School and the Seacoast Collegiate High School. The fun begins Friday 6–8 p.m. at Seaside’s Lyceum Hall when participants can pick up packets enjoy light hors d’oeuvres and refreshments, listen to live music and a sneak peak at the silent auction. The festivities continue on Saturday from noon to 6 p.m. at Seaside’s Lyceum Hall and Seaside Amphitheater where guests can pick up race registration, browse a vendor expo and bid in a silent auction.

The Half Marathon race begins at the Seaside Post Office on Sunday at 7 a.m. and the 5K Run kicks off at 7:25 a.m. Silent auction bidding will remain open up until 11:30 a.m. Runner Awards will be given at a post-race party catered by Jim ‘N Nick’s Bar-B-Q and Gratyon Beer Company in the Seaside Amphitheater beginning at 8:30 a.m.

Tickets for the Friday Night Event are $25. Purchase event tickets and register for the race at active.com.

March 2–May 11

16th Annual Destin Cobia Tournament 16th Annual Destin Cobia Tournament presented by HarborWalk Marina is a month-long event that attracts hundreds of anglers from Northwest Florida. Last year more than $35,000 in cash and prizes were awarded. All proceeds go toward the Miss Destin Scholarship Fund. The tournament kicks off March 2 at 7 p.m. The awards ceremony is May 11 at Harry T’s in HarborWalk Village. FREE for spectators. See website for registration fees. HarborWalk Village, Destin. (850) 837-2343

March 4

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44 February–March 2014

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Fat Tuesday Baytowne Bash Parade Laissez les bon temps rouler at the 11th annual Fat Tuesday parade rolling through Sandestin. The post-parade celebration continues into the night with street performers, “throws” tossed from balconies on Main Street and parties at various Baytowne establishments. FREE. The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Miramar Beach. 5 p.m. (850) 267-8117, baytownewharf.com

March 4–14

Van Porter Art Show The Arts and Design Society presents a special exhibit showcasing the art of Okaloosa County high school students. FREE. Art Center, 17 First St., Fort Walton Beach. Opening reception March 6, 5–7 p.m.

Gallery hours: Tues–Fri, Noon–4 p.m.; Sat, 1–4 p.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

socialstudies Artists for Animals Nov. 14, 2013 Lovers of art and animals gathered under twinkling trees at Grayt Grounds of Monet Monet to raise funds and awareness for Sinfonia Gulf Coast and Alaqua Animal Refuge. Guests enjoyed gourmet “chow stations,” an animal-inspired art auction and a live musical performance of “Peter and the Wolf” narrated by Aimee Schaffer.

Photos by Zandra Wolfgram

Lauren Gall and Steve Barber

Debra Dorn and Chloe Chambers

Annie Parker, Laura Holthoff and Leanne King

Craig Hoffman

Bob and Lori James

Mary Hong

Demetrius Fuller and Laurie Hood EmeraldCoastMagazine.com February–March 2014

45

thecalendar March 7

The Hole in One Golf Tournament The Hole in One will be a scramble-style tournament with prizes, food and drinks. Form a foursome and come out and support Emerald Coast Autism Center by helping us raise funds for children with autism. $100. Blackstone Golf Course, Highway 90, Mossy Head, Fla. Shotgun start at noon. (850) 279-3000, ecautismcenter.org

March 8

‘The Rat Pack is Back’ — Special NFSO Fundraiser Event Relive the great songs of the original Rat Pack — Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr., and Joey Bishop — during a special “big band” tribute show to benefit the Northwest Florida Symphony Orchestra (NFSO). $37. Mattie Kelly Arts Center, 100 College Blvd., Niceville. 7:30 p.m. (850) 729-6000, mattiekellyartscenter.org

March 17

St. Patty’s Day Delight Celebrate the luck of the Irish at this festive event. Henri’s Notions will provide traditional Celtic music in the events plaza from 6–9 p.m. Come enjoy jubilant entertainment and celebrate St. Patty’s Day Village-style.

FREE. The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Miramar Beach. 6 p.m. (850) 267-8117, baytownewharf.com

March 18–Apr. 11

‘Inspired by George-Pierre Seurat’ Art Show This show will feature art in all media, inspired by the works of the French Post-Impressionist master painter Georges-Pierre Seurat.

FREE. Art Center, 17 First St., Fort Walton Beach. Opening reception

+events

30A Wine Festival 30A at the 3rd annual 30A Wine Festival and enjoy a three-day showcase of premiere wines and local culinary talent. This newly expanded three-day event features a Friday night gathering, “Bourbon, Beer, and Butts,” Saturday wine tasting seminars, a walkabout and grand tasting, band party at nightfall and Sunday’s exclusive event, “Pork and Pinot,” complete with croquet tournament (appropriate croquet attire encouraged).

Weekend tickets are $300 per person, and proceeds from the event benefit Children’s Volunteer Health Network. The event takes place throughout Alys Beach. To purchase tickets, call (850) 213-5500 or visit 30awinefestival.com.

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Photo Courtesy Alys Beach

March 7-9 Celebrate the good life on

socialstudies

A Tribute to George Rodrigue Nov. 7, 2013 The Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation (MKAF) hosted an unusual evening of art and music at the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa. The evening included a gourmet wine dinner prepared by Chef John Carey, a live auction and a concert featuring the talents of five pianists: Sean Dietrich, John Ripley, David Seering, Donnie Sundal and Bobby van Duesen performing everything from ragtime to rock ‘n’ roll on the refurbished 1913 Steinway.

Proceeds will help support art education programs for both MKAF and the George Rodrique Foundation.

Jack and Candis Wilson

Jennifer and Donnie Sundal

Robert Scruggs, Wayne Fernandez and Cynthia Scruggs

John Ripley, Sean Dietrich, Chuck Schwartz, Donnie Sundal, Bobby van Deusen and David Seering

Photos by Kay Phelan

Ruth Anne and Dr. Jim Stevens and Marcia Hull

Alan and Tracy Wood EmeraldCoastMagazine.com February–March 2014

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NICEVILLE

HIGH SCHOOL Home of the Eagles

Class of 2013 earned over $9,623,000 in scholarships Advanced Studies students earn up to 60 college credits Leading-edge Information Technology Institute Award-winning Performing Arts Programs Winning Athletic Programs recognized statewide Zoning waivers currently available at www.nicevillehighschool.org

thecalendar March 22, 6–8 p.m. Gallery hours: Tues–Fri, Noon–4 p.m.; Sat, 1–4 p.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

March 21

Multi-Chamber Expo For the sixth year, the chambers of commerce in Okaloosa County are partnering to bring their members the biggest marketing and networking opportunity around — The Multi-Chamber Business Expo & Taste of Okaloosa County. FREE. Emerald Coast Convention Center, 1250 Miracle Strip Pkwy., Fort Walton Beach. (850) 244-8191, fwbchamber.org

March 21-22

Purses with Purpose This fashionable event features a Friday night VIP party with first pick of items, food, drinks and door prizes and a discount sale on Saturday morning. New and lightly used designer handbags will be up for sale and auction. All proceeds benefit Shelter House. $5 for VIP party; no admission fee Saturday. Silver Sands Premium Outlets, 10562 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Destin. Fri 6–8 p.m., Sat 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

(850) 654-9771 premiumoutlets.com/silversands

March 21 & 23

‘Cinderella’ The enchanting fairytale of Cinderella has delighted readers and audiences over the ages. Set in Italy in the 18th century, Pensacola Opera presents Gioachino Rossini’s operatic version of the timeless tale of the triumph of goodness over cruelty that you know and love. $30–$110. Student and military from $15. Saenger Theatre, 118 S. Palafox Place, Pensacola. Fri at 7:30 p.m. Sun at 2 p.m.

(850) 433-6737, pensacolaopera.com

March 21­–May 4

2014 World Cobia Championships Come watch the spectacle of daily weigh-ins at Harbor Docks as 87 angler crews from Panama City to Orange Beach compete for more than $66,000. FREE for spectators. See website for registration fees. Harbor Docks, 538 Harbor Blvd., Destin. 4–8 p.m. daily, (850) 837-2506, cobiaworldchampionships.com

March 26

Arts and Design Society Speaker Luncheon Jewelry artists Sandra and Davis Bergquist will present a talk on their techniques and experiences in making wire-wrapped jewelry and finding and preparing gem stones. $12. Reservations made after March 24, $15. Art Center, 17 First St., S.E., Fort Walton Beach. 11:30 a.m.

(850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

March 31

www.nicevillehighschool.org

Sacred Heart Charity Golf Classic The Sacred Heart Charity Golf Classic has become the signature fund raising event for Sacred Heart Hospital on the Emerald Coast. Enjoy a great day of golf for a great cause! Individuals are $1,250, foursomes are $5,000. Burnt Pine Golf Club at Sandestin, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. West, Miramar Beach. 8 a.m. (850) 278-3000

Save these Dates!

800 East John Sims Parkway Niceville, FL 32578 850.833.4114 Rodney Nobles, Principal

April 10–13

Sandestin Wine Festival Affectionately called the “Kentucky Derby of Wine Festivals,” the 28th annual Sandestin event is a celebrity-studded wine lovers favorite weekend festival. $50–$85. The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin. (866) 912-3224, sandestinwinefestival.com

April 24–27

South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival Sip, swirl and savor more than 800 wines at this memorable wine, craft beer and food tasting festival experience at Grand Boulevard at Sandestin. $40–$150. For tickets and a schedule of the many events, visit sowalwine.com. ec 48 February–March 2014

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socialstudies

9th Annual Hurricane Party Sept. 27, 2013 The 9th Annual Hurricane Party, hosted by Bud & Alley’s Restaurant in Seaside, raised $30,000 for the Children’s Volunteer Health Network. A high-energy “Tropical Depression” silent auction and a “Category 5” live auction, emceed by Aimee Shaffer, were all a part of a festive party in which talking about the weather was actually part of the entertainment.

Photos by Lori Leath Smith

Stephanie Cook, Haviland Poundstone, Tina Aponte, Tamara Hightower and Bill Roberts

Jane Bahr, Rita Montgomery and Greg Bahr

Jon and Judy Miller

Carol and Dave Rauschkalb and Hannah Billingsley

Festival of the Arts Oct. 26 & 27, 2013 For the first time the 18th annual Festival of the Arts was held in the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation’s Cultural Arts Village in Destin. Art, food, live music, collaborative exhibits, raffle prizes and kids’ crafts made this a fun, family-friendly fall event.

Photos by Zandra Wolfgram

Claire Bannerman and John Czapleski

Andy Saczynski

Jean Houndsome

Ava McCracken

Debbie Taylor, Christie Sheffield and Mary Kay Samouce EmeraldCoastMagazine.com February–March 2014

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SAVE THE DATE!

2014

PRESENTING SPONSOR: THE CENTER FOR COSMETIC & FAMILY DENTISTRY

APRIL 4, 2014

Hilton SandeStin BeacH Golf ReSoRt & Spa Thank you for your nominations! Ten of the area’s most popular salons have been selected to compete for the title of Emerald Coast’s Top Salon! Now the competition begins.

Competing salons will make over a model, and the transformations will be unveiled in a runway show.

The salons are featured on the following three pages. A panel of judges and all attendees will cast votes to determine the Top Salon of the Emerald Coast.

Emerald Coast’s Top Salon wins an advertising campaign developed by Rowland Publishing and a yearlong ad campaign in Emerald Coast Magazine.

Plus, a portion of the proceeds will benefit the winner’s charity of choice.

Tickets are $53 and include one drink coupon, heavy hors d’oeuvres and automatic entry to win some great prizes and getaway packages!

Tickets and event information at emeraldcoastmagazine.com pReSentinG SponSoR

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additional SponSoRS

2014 PRESENTING SPONSOR: THE CENTER FOR COSMETIC & FAMILY DENTISTRY

NOMINEES

Model makeovers revealed on April 4 at The Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa. To purchase tickets visit emeraldcoastmagazine.com.

SALON

Soho Salon CHARITY

Emerald Coast Wildlife Rescue

SALON

Avantgarde Salon & Spa CHARITY

Gulf Restoration Networks

SALON

Euphoria CHARITY

American Cancer Society

THE THIRD ANNUAL TOP SALON COmPETITION IS

SALON

As You Like It Salon & Spa CHARITY

Horizons of Okaloosa County

BACk! EmeraldCoastMagazine.com February–March 2014

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2014 PRESENTING SPONSOR: THE CENTER FOR COSMETIC & FAMILY DENTISTRY

NOMINEES

Model makeovers revealed on April 4 at The Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa. To purchase tickets visit emeraldcoastmagazine.com.

SALON

Just Me Salon CHARITY

Children’s Advocacy Center

SALON

Fusion Spa Salon CHARITY

St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital SALON

Magnolia Salon CHARITY

PAWS Animal Shelter of Fort Walton Beach

Tickets and event information at emeraldcoastmagazine.com pReSentinG SponSoR

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additional SponSoRS

2014 PRESENTING SPONSOR: THE CENTER FOR COSMETIC & FAMILY DENTISTRY

NOMINEES

Model makeovers revealed on April 4 at The Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa. To purchase tickets visit emeraldcoastmagazine.com.

SALON

Serenity by the sea Spa SALON

CHARITY

Vivo Spa Salon

Family Life Ministry

CHARITY

Special Olympics Florida SALON

The Cutting Room Salon & Spa CHARITY

Wesley Landon

APRIL 4, 2014

Hilton SandeStin BeacH Golf ReSoRt & Spa

THE THIRD ANNUAL TOP SALON COmPETITION IS

BACk! EmeraldCoastMagazine.com February–March 2014

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Ship Ahoy!

Calm economic waters see boaters return to the water

By Jeanne Craig

Legendary Marine was founded in 2001 in a singlewide trailer based in Destin and staffed with just three employees. By 2006, sales had become so robust at $70 million that the company, which sells and services new and used powerboats, had grown to encompass four locations and 121 full-time workers.

Getting a start-up business off the ground is never an easy task, but Legendary’s success was fueled in part by the fact its locations were in tourist-friendly areas of Florida’s Northwest Gulf Coast that were growing quickly. Thus, a good number of prospective customers were making regular pilgrimages to Legendary’s pristine slips and showrooms.

And then things changed.

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Boaters are again returning to the water. Boat sales are high — with many new buyers opting for smaller vessels — and marinas are busy.

Pictured is the Bluewater Bay Marina in Niceville. Photo by Scott Holstein.

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In the wake of the Great Recession, as the nation went about the grim business of tightening its belt, people in this area stopped building homes and condominiums, and more consumers put the kibosh on travel plans to Florida’s Panhandle. At Legendary, those behaviors forced a steep drop in business, the likes of which had not been seen before. Like most seasoned veterans in the marine industry, Fred Pace, Legendary’s managing partner, had already been through the ups and downs of what is a highly cyclical business, but this downturn was different. It forced his team to rethink how they did business and to quickly adapt to meet new realities in the marketplace. The BP oil spill in 2010 didn’t make this challenge any easier. Yet Legendary managed to survive and now seems poised to thrive as, today, the recreational marine industry is powering up and leaving tough times in its wake.

“Business has come back significantly, and we’re optimistic we’ll get close to where we were in 2006,” says Pace. “I think consumer sentiment is more positive, and there are more people entering the industry. That’s something we weren’t seeing a few years ago.

Then, people were worried about their jobs and their homes, so they weren’t going to buy a boat.”

Navigating Rough Seas The story of Legendary Marine is, in many ways, the story of how the savviest companies have navigated a smart course through some of roughest financial seas ever seen in the marine industry, on a state and national level. How bad did it get? In the five-year period from 2007 to 2011, sales of new boats nationally dropped 55 percent, from 280,000 boats to 135,000. “Because of the drop in retail sales, it’s estimated that 40 percent of new boat dealers went out of business,” says Thom Damrich, president of the National Marine Manufacturers 56 February–March 2014

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Association (NMMA). “That’s an even greater testament to people like Fred Pace.”

Business owners like Pace are critical to the health of the industry as a whole since Florida plays a key role in its success. Florida consistently ranks among the top states for recreational boat sales in the country. In 2010, for instance, it ranked first with total new powerboat, motor, trailer and accessory sales reaching nearly $1.5 billion. That same year, it led all states in boat registrations, with a total of $12.4 million. While registrations are typically highest in South Florida, the Northwest corner of the state draws its fair share of boating enthusiasts, too. In 2012, there were 115,080 boats registered in the counties covered by 850 Magazine, compared with 901,969 for the entire state.

Fortunately, things are now looking up in the recreational boat business as it appears the industry has turned a corner. According to the NMMA, boat sales were up 3 percent in 2011 over 2010, and 5 percent in 2013 over 2012. The future is looking brighter for marina operators, as well. Although some contend these businesses were not hit as hard as the dealerships, the recession and subsequent oil spill took their toll as vacancy rates for slips increased dramatically.

Forecasts are looking sunny, though. NMMA statistics show that boat owners spent 14 percent more on operating costs (which includes docking and marina fees) in 2011 as compared with 2010, climbing from $8.5 billion to $9.9 billion, and that number may well improve.

“We’re gradually clawing our way back,” says Damrich. “But many of the companies that survived had to reduce their cost structures to break even at levels they did not think possible pre-recession. Yet they’ve found a way to make money.”

The national rebound is being reflected in Northwest Florida, a welcome sign for an industry that supports more than 8,300 jobs

Photo By sCott Holstein

The boat storage facility at Legendary Marine in Destin stays busy taking boats out and putting them away. During the recession, the company ramped up service to offset sale losses.

representatives from the dealership travel with a fleet of owners to locations they may not be comfortable visiting on their own, go a long way toward keeping customers engaged in the sport.

“We’ve learned we have to adapt,” says Pace. “In business, it’s easy to get set in your ways, but the recession taught me how little I knew. This is a changing marketplace, but if we can embrace that fact and be willing to change, I think we’ll be okay.”

Bracing for a Sea Change Change is a constant in any industry, and the recreational marine marketplace is no different. Thus, the companies that are quick to adapt and evolve often succeed. That much is true for Galati Yachts, a family-owned dealership in business since 1970 with multiple locations spanning the Gulf Coast from Florida to Texas, including a showroom and service facility in Destin. “As a child, I remember my father dealing with fuel rationing and high interest rates in the Carter days,” says John Galati, the company president. “As anyone in our business understands, we deal with cyclical issues, so you have to be prepared to react quickly to what the Northwest economy is doing.”

Florida Total Galati learned that lesson the hard Annual Economic way following the oil spill in April of Value of 2010. Fortunately for this dealership, the early days of the recession Recreational didn’t hurt business as severely as it Boating impacted other local companies, in part because Galati sells large (32 to 160 feet) premium-brand yachts to wealthy customers with deeper pockets. Even so, sales of new boats did slide, so this dealership ramped up its efforts to sell used yachts and Total of repossessed models, the inventory Recreational for which was more robust than Boats ever at the time. In addition, Galati was able to take a larger piece of the available pie as a number of other dealers had to shut their doors in these troubled times.

But the oil spill was another story.

Total number “It was quite devastating,” says of Recreational Galati. “Even though we didn’t deal Boating Industry with oil of any significance on the Businesses beaches in Destin, business really slowed down. People just weren’t using their boats in this area. Inlets were closed, or were threatening to close. Some people chose to move their yachts out of the region.” Prior Total number to the spill, sales at Galati were going of Jobs very well. But afterward, there were dramatic declines in the Destin and Orange Beach locations. “We saw a 50 to 60 percent decline in business at these locations as compared to Total Annual where we should have been based on Recreational what our other locations were doing,” says Galati.

Boating-Related To weather the storm, Galati did Spending things like increase efforts to sell outside the region. For instance, they had a strong presence at the Miami and Ft. Lauderdale boat shows. And

$1.04 Billion

in the region. Recreational boating has a more than $1 billion economic impact on the area, according to Todd Sumner, president of the Northwest Florida Marine Industries Association.

“Our members are seeing a steady uptick in their businesses,” Sumner said. “Some are busier now than they ever have been. I think there is a lot of pent-up frustration for those who have been weathering the recession. They are now ready to get back out on water and many needed a new boat to do that.”

Survival Strategies At Legendary Marine, a number of strategies were employed to drive revenue. Immediately following the recession, for instance, the company changed its focus from an aggressive sales mentality to a more balanced approach. They ramped up marketing efforts around Legendary’s service arm to capture a greater market share of those people that they had and had not sold boats to. Providing more parts and service generated a revenue stream when sales were down. And when the economy began to pick back up, Legendary had in its portfolio a top-notch service division that made the dip in sales during the typical off-season much less severe.

And there were other initiatives. Legendary launched a marina management arm, which proved to be a steady income stream as some local marinas were taken over by banks when the recession really took a grip.

Legendary continues to explore new ideas and think out of the box, practices that Pace says have been possible because of the excellent team of professionals he has on his staff. Among those initiatives is a boat rental operation designed to lure more people to the sport. In addition, Legendary coordinates a number of cruising events for customers it has sold boats to. These events, in which

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Lure of the Sea “I see people coming back to the water,” says Ryan Hinely, of Bluewater Bay Marina in Niceville and the executive director of the Northwest Florida Marine Industries Association (NWFMIA). “At our marina, we see foot traffic increasing. Not everyone is here to run a boat. Some people are just coming down to the restaurant to enjoy a meal and the view, or to watch a sunset. But in general, when we see that start to happen, boating typically picks up. I’m cautiously optimistic about the future.”

As operations manager at Bluewater Bay, a full-service marina with 120 wet slips and 120 racks for dry stowage, Hinely has witnessed first-hand the ebbs and flows in business in recent years. “The consensus among marine industry professionals in this area is that we’ll never see a year like 2007.” Good riddance to that, is the general feeling among marina operators here, who saw vacancy rates for slips at some facilities hit all-time highs. At Bluewater Bay, for instance, vacancy hit 75 percent; and this Joe Galati, of Galati occurred after the president Yachts in Destin, marina had enjoyed says boating a waiting list for slips companies had to adapt to survive that averaged two the recession, to four years. It had but sales are always been easy for booming again. this marina to keep its slips full as it’s located in one of the finest cruising areas in the country. “Things were going so well, but then business just fell off the table,” says Hinely. “People with 58 February–March 2014

larger boats berthed in wet slips moved them out of the area following the oil spill.

Those with smaller boats took them out of dry stowage and put them on trailers. Boat owners were looking to save a few hundred bucks a month any way they could.”

Bluewater also has a brokerage arm that specializes in the sale of used boats (primarily sail), yet revenues for that arm of the business dropped, too. Currently, sales are more brisk, although there is a shift in the market. Sellers are getting more realistic about pricing and lowering their sale price.

In addition, there’s a trend among buyers to seek out smaller boats.

This trade-down mentality is particularly prevalent in the powerboat market. Many dealers in Northwest Florida report an increased demand in boats under 30 feet

“We’re gradually clawing our way back.

But many of the companies that survived had to reduce their cost structures to break even at levels they did not think possible pre-recession.

Yet they’ve found a way to make money.”

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

Thom Damrich, president of the NMMA

and powered with fuel-efficient outboard engines. This preference is playing out among consumers along the Northwest Florida coast, and to meet the demand more dealers have added boat lines from builders of models in this category. Center console fish boats, day boats, deck boats and pontoon boats are very hot commodities in the region today.

Interestingly, the small-boat craze has hit the local charter fishing industry, too.

This is according to Hinely, who often connects with captains in the local fleet in his role with the NWFMIA, a nonprofit created in 1986 to advance the growth of the recreational boating industry and to promote the protection of the local inland and coastal waterways. Following the oil spill, the charter fleet was fortunate to see a good volume of customers pay for its services. “But the dynamic changed,” says Hinely. “People weren’t lining up to fish Photos By sCott Holstein (Galati, Gwinnup) and Courtesy Legendary Marine

they made efforts to help those Destin-based customers who wanted to sell their yachts do so by finding customers in other parts of the state and country. And for those local owners who wanted to keep their boats but cruise elsewhere, Galati utilized its reputable service arm to offer boat-prep services to get those models ready to cruise in other waters, such as the Bahamas and the Keys.

The tide has turned, though. “Business has picked up considerably,” says Galati. “Since February 2013, we’ve seen the biggest increase in sales.” He attributes this growth to last summer’s strong tourist season. “Business for hotels and restaurants was stimulated. So this year, it seems people are starting to talk about having fun again and getting back out onto the water.” To satisfy that growing desire, Galati will continue to grow its rendezvous program, which makes it possible for its customers to cruise together as a group, to see new places and make the most of the boating lifestyle.

Says Galati, “A boat owner will justify the expense of this hobby by how much he uses his yacht and how much fun he’s having.”

from the large 50-foot convertible fishing boats for full-day trips in deep water. They were more interested in paying for time aboard smaller boats that did shorter trips and charged less money.”

That preference hasn’t changed in recent years, which is why there seem to be more small- to mid-sized fishing boats available for charter in the area today. “These customers are content to spend a few hours on a smaller boat casting lines in the bay rather than going offshore on a big yacht and targeting larger species of fish,” says Hinely.

And there are other trends afloat in the Northwest Florida market. Some dealers, including Legendary, report the return of the entry-level buyer, the consumer who is buying his first boat. That’s good news for the marine industry, as this type of buyer practically disappeared in the dark days of 2008. And the increase of entry-level buyers is fueling that demand for boats in the 20-foot class, particularly day boats and pontoons that are built to be multi-purpose craft for families who want to cruise, fish, ski and enjoy a full day on the water.

And then there are the people who love the boating lifestyle but aren’t quite ready to make the commitment to boat ownership. There seem to be more of them on the horizon as boat clubs in the region are getting more traffic.

At Freedom Boat Club in Destin, owner Brian Gwinnup says more people are getting into the club scene. His company, which is one of 65 franchises located throughout the U.S., owns a fleet of boats sized from 20 to 25 feet that are available for members to use at any time. Members pay $249 per month for access to the boats, but they don’t have to worry about maintenance, insurance or upkeep. They take the keys and cruise for a few hours, then return the boat back to Freedom. “Clubs are great options for people

who don’t want the hassles of ownership; they want simplicity,” says Gwinnup.

That trend is playing out over in Pensacola, too, where membership is up at Harbor View Boat Club. The club is one revenue stream for parent company Harbor View Marine, a 30-year-old company with a full-service marina and a sales operation for new and used boats. In the course of three decades, owners Hellon and Darrell Robinson have grown their business from a simple service center to what it is today.

In the past, boat club memberships were sold and managed through Harbor View Marine’s boat sales staff, but the Robinsons recently dedicated their time and creativity to the marketing of club memberships. “The club is a small part of what we do, but it does generate a good deal of income for us and it’s another way to expand our business,” says Hellon. “The club appeals to people who are looking for a fixed amount of money to spend on boating each month. They want to know exactly how much they’ll have to spend.” By comparison, a boat owner has to plan for expenses associated with service, storage, fuel and the like, in addition to the cost of the actual boat.

Business at the Robinson’s boat club is in full swing, and so are sales for boats and services offered across the board. “Our boat sales have been tremendous this year,” says Hellon, whose company carries a few types of boats, including pontoons and fishing boats. There’s been a gradual increase in customer demand for new and used boats, as well as for slips, parts and service at Harbor View Marine, “but this year seems to be a little bit beyond our expectations,” says Hellon. “I think people are feeling some relief from the recession and are ready to spend money on the things they enjoy.”

Those who relish the boating lifestyle do seem to be more willing to open their wallets

Brian Gwinnup, owner of Freedom Boat Club in Destin, says a growing number of boaters are interested in clubs where they pay a monthly fee to boat without worrying about maintenance or insurance.

these days. At least that’s what retailer West Marine is banking on. The company, which is the largest specialty retailer of boating supplies and accessories with nearly 300 stores, recently opened a new location in Tallahassee, which is double the size of its previous store in that city. This new store, the largest West Marine location in the Panhandle, contains a much larger selection of boating, fishing and water sports gear and accessories. “This is a one-stop shop that can cover all the needs of our customers,” says Tim Winget, the store manager. “We offer a huge selection for customers in Tallahassee and the surrounding areas. Customers will come from as far as 170 miles away. They’ll drive the distance to our store because they know we have the best selection. And the trip is worth it because we bill the store as a destination location.”

Industry veterans say operations like West Marine, and boat clubs such as Harbor View and Freedom, will succeed in large part for the high level of customer service that’s offered. In fact, good customer service appears to be a trademark of most marine companies that are now positioned for growth in the future.

“I can’t reiterate enough what courtesy can do for a marine business,” says Hinely.

“People don’t always understand that.

Customer service goes a long way in this industry. Boats are bought with disposable income. No one needs a boat. But owners want the experience to be enjoyable and to be fun. They want to know that the old adage is true: A bad day on the water beats a good day at the office.” ec

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t

ake a drive down Scenic Highway 30A in South Walton County, and you’re transported back to the world of yesteryear. Here you’ll find no big box stores, no high-rise hotels and condominiums, no backed up traffic on four-lane highways.

Instead, you can walk into a restaurant or a small market where the owner knows your name. Inhale the salty breeze coming off the Gulf of Mexico and enjoy the sound of silence. Watch the sun set into the Gulf while you walk along one of the most famous beaches in the world.

But make no mistake. When it comes to business, this is no sleepy Southern town.

There’s a heavy dose of entrepreneurism found along 30A, and there are growing signs of vigorous business development that has been spurred on by the state and the nation’s economic recovery from the Great Recession.

Businesses along this coastal slice of Northwest Florida were hit hard by the recession and by the bottoming out of the real estate market. Then came the 2010 BP oil spill to put the nail in the region’s economic coffin as tourists avoided the beach for (unfounded) fears of finding tar balls in the surf. Some businesses closed, others scaled back. Very little in the way of new business came to town.

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The sugar-white sand beaches are just the beginning of the magnetic draw to the 30A area; Shorty's Surfside & Topside (opposite) is one of many new 30A hot spots in Grayton Beach.

Photos by Ocean Jewels Images

30A

the

phenomenon

Businesses on This Scenic Highway are on the Fast Track to Success

By Linda Kleindienst and Zandra Wolfgram

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Photos By Lori Saczynski (Saczynski), Tommy Crow (The Alys Shoppe) and courtesy of Alys Beach (Digital Graffiti)

A New Era But times have changed. After two years of phenomenal growth in tourist numbers (attributable, at least in part, to the billions of advertising dollars BP has pumped into promoting the Gulf Coast) and a turnaround in real estate, business is good. The proof is in the opening of new retail outlets, restaurants and a boutique hotel along the quiet streets of 30A — and the fact that some businesses are moving into larger quarters to handle their volume.

Scott Russell, a partner with Russell & Russell, a hospitality management consulting firm based in Miramar Beach, said in spite of a somewhat soggy 2013 summer South Walton saw doubledigit growth in bed tax collection (from visitors) for the prior 22 months.

“A lot of that is as a result of 30A. There are a couple of prongs to this: First, real estate on 30A has definitely recovered. A lot of inventory has been bought up and converted to vacation rental inventory. WaterColor and Rosemary Beach, in particular, have increased their rental pools as real estate has sold,” he explained. “Second, on 30A rates have increased over high demand periods.

Occupancy has not evened out year-round, but …

30A is becoming a more year-round destination, more so than other areas along the coast.”

And, he added, with that growth comes growth for the restaurant and retail businesses that also are able to enjoy a year-round model.

Jon Ervin, director of marketing and Clockwise from top: communications for the Visitors and locals alike are flocking to South Walton Tourist The Alys Shoppe, Development Council, Alys Beach's first said 30A enjoys a loyal upscale retail store, to "take a little Alys customer base that has home;" Local artist kept repeat business Andy Saczynski opened his first high. Meanwhile the studio gallery in The area is attracting more Shops of Grayton year-round interest on Country Road 283; Digital Graffiti from new regions of is one of many wellthe country because of attended annual art events that is the Northwest Florida placing 30A on the Beaches International world's radar.

Airport and air service that has changed a lengthy drive into a short flight for visitors seeking a quick getaway to the beach.

“When you see two years of double digit growth month-to-month, as a business owner or entrepreneur, that gives you confidence, which we’ve been missing for a number of years,” Ervin said. “That’s sparked a lot of great new efforts.”

And those efforts made by local businesses are being rewarded.

During last year’s tourist season, retail stores in Seaside enjoyed “over the top” business that saw sales double, said Lori Leath Smith, of Seaside Community Development Corp.

“People’s perception is that the economy is definitely better,” she said. “Combine that with the fact people are tired of not spending money on vacations, and they are ripe and ready.”

Bringing in the Crowds Upscale art and wine festivals, charity marathons, high-end fashion shows and an array of other special events held throughout the year are part of the area’s formula for success. These events are helping to bring in cash-flush clientele eager to bolster the cash registers of local entrepreneurs, from artists and retailers to restaurateurs and vacation homeowners.

Digital Graffiti marked its sixth year in June. Touted as the world’s first outdoor projection art festival, it has become the “must-do” event of the summer — and attendees seemed un-phased by a $100 Saturday night ticket admitting them to see the computer-generated art of more than 300 artists vying for $10,000 in contest winnings.

The ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival produced by the Cultural Arts Alliance for 25 years has not only become a Mother’s Day tradition with locals and visitors, but it is becoming a lucrative art show for local artists. Jewelry designer Mary Kay Samouce said in 2013 she sold more items and earned more revenue than at any previous ArtsQuest — or any other art show, for that matter.

The 30A Songwriter’s Festival continues to add performances, venues and attract more attendees each year. The 30A Wine Festival was held for the first time last spring and looks to return as an annual event, along with the charity road race 30A 10K. And another first — South Walton Fashion Week, a new multi-day blockbuster event created to showcase the fashions of local boutiques and the talent of emerging local designers, sold out many of its events when it debuted in October.

Meanwhile, Seaside — voted the No. 1 beach in the world for families by the readers of Travel and Leisure magazine — is doing its own best to bring in vacationers who will then patronize local businesses and restaurants. “From an economic standpoint, there is a lot going on here,” Smith said.

Seaside, the birthplace of pedestrianfriendly New Urbanism, offers plenty for locals and visitors to enjoy without having to travel far. There is a new park, new food carts lining up along the main road through town and there is even an electric car charger station to cater to the more environmentally conscious visitors. There are theater performances, outdoor movies, yard sales — all contributing to that authentic small town feeling that brings visitors back to this particular stretch of beach for more.

Business Growth Beyond traveling the art show circuit, a number of local artists are growing their

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Photos By Shelly Swanger (Wickey and gallery), Tommy Crow (The Pearl) and Colleen Duffley (earles)

names and talents into successful brands. In just the past year or so, five local Emerald Coast-based artists have either opened local galleries or expanded their studios.

Glass artist Mary Hong, recently named South Walton Artist of the Year for 2014, opened a new studio gallery in Grayton Beach near to Andy Saczynski, who was named Artist of the Year for 2013 and voted Best Local Artist by EC Magazine readers in 2012 and 2013, and recently celebrated a one-year anniversary at his space.

Allison Wickey, Artist of the Year in 2011, expanded from her studio in Rosemary Beach to a 2,000-square-foot gallery in Seacrest Beach.

Painter Susan Lucas recently promoted her new work at a highprofile reception sponsored by V at Seagrove. And Laura Granberry, who owns The Art of Simple, and Justin Gaffrey expanded their presence in Seaside.

In the fall a group called Artists at Gulf Place started a weekly marketplace event on Saturdays called Artist Bazaar, which is designed to showcase the work of local artists, craftspeople and artisans year-round.

The art scene explosion seems to have necessitated a new collective website called The Artists of 30A (artistsof30a.com), which provides a centralized online guide and map to galleries and art-themed events and happenings.

Meanwhile, retail is one of the fastest growing business segments on 30A. After a two-year shopping spree that took her from New York to Los Angeles, Megan Trent, director of retail for Alys Beach, began to share her many finds at Celebrated chef The Alys Shoppe on July 4th weekend.

Johnny Earles revamped his fine The 2,200-square-foot upscale boutique dining restaurant shop features coastal-inspired designer into a casual coastal brand ladies’ apparel, select home décor seafood eatery called Grayton merchandise and keepsake souvenirs. It is Bar and Grill; A. the first commercial offering in the Town Wickey Studio Gallery in Seacrest Center and the first ever stand-alone retail Beach features art endeavor for Alys Beach. and accessories The shop is an example of the “upgraded” by nearly a dozen local artists and retail experience travelers to 30A are looking designers; 2011 for. “We’re presenting things that are Artist of the Year Allison Wickey. different than what they have at home. They are looking for something new and different, and businesses like The Alys Shoppe are meeting that need,” Trent said.

On the culinary scene, celebrated Chef Johnny Earles has returned to 30A with Grayton Bar & Grill.

The atmosphere is rustic and casual, but the food is just as memorable as the fare he served at his iconic Criolla’s.

Other restaurant operators are expanding as well. Kevin Neel, who owns La Crema in Rosemary Beach, opened Aqua Sushi, also in Rosemary.

Nick’s Seafood Restaurant, a third-generation Freeport landmark known for its fresh crabs, re-opened Nick’s on the Beach in Blue Mountain Beach.

And Marie’s Bistro in Santa

in Seacrest Beach. Wells, a diplomat on the American Board of Optometry, is currently the only vision care provider in the area.

Clay Garden Pottery & Blessings, owned and operated by Jason and Anna Daniel, sells annual and perennial plants as well as home and garden gift items. The Daniels operate out of a beach house that they renovated into a quaint, boutique nursery surrounded by lush gardens.

And a new 16-acre mixed use retail center filled with upscale shopping, dining and office space called 30Avenue is in the planning stages for the east end of 30A. It is described by CorrGroup Inc. as a "mix of one- and two-story buildings constructed of white stucco and animated with black shutters, awnings and balconies for a timeless and sustainable coastal architecture."

Rosa Beach has been jammin’ as well — literally. In addition to restaurant service, a full-bar and catering, they added the sounds of Tim Jackson & Ike Bartley on Friday nights.

All types of service businesses are also being established in the 30A area. Wells Eye Center, based in Destin, is a fullservice vision care provider led by Dr. Kevin Wells. Voted the Best Eye Doctor practice on the Emerald Coast, the success of the business prompted the company to open a new location

Lodging Innovation One of Russell & Russell’s clients is The Pearl, a newly opened 55-room boutique hotel in Rosemary Beach. The aim is to provide a luxury resort experience, and bookings have already exceeded expectations. And Scott Russell predicts The Pearl is just the beginning of growth in lodging offerings.

With balanced development, Russell sees the growth of 30A as a long-term proposition that will have a trickle-down effect. “You will see an upgrading of businesses as 30A continues to reach the affluent traveler. You’ll see growth in the culinary scene and elevated service — it has to. You get a stronger pool of employees, because they have year-round jobs. You can retain and train employees, and with that comes consistent service.”

Meanwhile in Seaside, Homeowner’s Collection was formed by owners of 30 upscale beach homes, cottages and townhomes in October 2012 to boost vacation rentals.

Formation of the only owner-led rental agency of its kind in the region, if not the country, was spearheaded by Seaside homeowner and businessman Max Watson. “Max felt like he was seeing more and more fragmentation with rental companies within Seaside. He felt that rate wars would inevitably diminish the guest experience and damage the brand, and once that happened property values like his would follow,” says Amy Wise-Coble, general manager for Homeowner’s Collection.

The concept is that rental guests directly benefit from the vested interest of these particular Seaside homeowners, who are personally committed to the long-term vision and success of this endeavor. “By forming a company exclusively owned by Seaside cottage owners, the owners have more direct control over the balance of cost and quality and are better able to ensure that renters have that wonderful Seaside experience that creates a high level of repeat business,” Watson said.

Coble says the market response has exceeded expectations. “It’s going great. Our numbers are very solid. Our occupancy and revenue are ahead of our pro forma,” she says. “If there are profits, our shareholders see a return on both their investment and their rental property.”

At the heart Coble has spent much of her 20-year career in of The Pearl, Rosemary various hospitality positions at Seaside and has Beach's elegant, watched it grow and evolve over the years. For new 55-room business leaders like Coble, the 30A phenomenon boutique hotel, is a hopping "seeis no surprise at all. “You have a lot of visionaries and-be seen" on 30A. You also have people with resources and restaurant bar the business skills to back up that creative thinking,” called Havana Beach. she says. ec

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10 2014

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contents

issue 1

17

coastal weddings

18 Wyndham Vacation Rentals Gulf Place

20 Wyndham Vacation Rentals Tops’l

22 Wyndham Vacation Rentals SunDestin 23 Sunquest Cruises/ Solaris 28 Hilton Sandestin

33

city weddings

34 FSU Alumni Center 36 Aloft Hotel 38 Four Points by Sheraton

41

country weddings

42 Maclay Gardens 44 Golden Eagle 46 Honey Lake Plantation

TERRI SMITH PHOTO (top) and MARI DARR~WELCH (bottom)

On the Cover

For our inaugural issue, we fell in love with this bride’s sultry style. The attractive couple gracing our cover had a vintageinspired dream wedding at Eden Gardens State Park, located in sunny Santa Rosa Beach. This image was captured by the talented folks at Pure 7 Studios.

51

making it happen

52 Dream Gowns 56 John Gandy Events

60 Bistro Bijoux 64 Nicholas Air 66 Maharaja’s 68 Sunset Lifestyles 70 Andrew’s Catering/ Andrew’s 228 NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS 2014

11

from the editor

Falling in Love in (and with) Northwest Florida

scott holstein photography

I was beyond thrilled when my publisher, Brian Rowland, approached me and asked me to work on the inaugural issue of Northwest Florida Weddings. For me, this region, with its rolling hills, majestic oaks and pure white, sugar-sand beaches, will always symbolize love. I count it among my many blessings that I now get to share that love with all of you.

There’s something I should come clean about, however. I am not actually from Northwest Florida. I found my home in Tallahassee much by accident — or maybe grand design, if you’re so inclined to believe — in the summer of 2011 when I relocated to Florida’s capital city to finish up my bachelor’s degree, and (most undeniably) to follow a boy.

As it turns out, it may have been the best decision I have ever made.

Over the past several years, I have repeatedly been moved by the genuine goodwill of this area’s friendly inhabitants and the deep-rooted devotion they hold to the land. If you stick around for a while, you’ll see that their loyalty comes as no real surprise; it’s easy to fall in love with the natural wonders seen throughout this region. Our diverse topography effortlessly lends itself to a variety of backdrops, from coast to city to country. And each has its own immense allure when it comes to matters of the heart.

To help you navigate through the magazine, take note of the different areas of interest we’ve laid out. For this issue, we wanted to represent three of Northwest Florida’s iconic settings — the coast, city and country. Toward the back of the book, we assembled the most talented vendors and service providers in the region in our “Making it Happen” section. Sprinkled throughout, you’ll also find bits of inspiration.

Having your wedding here would be the experience of a lifetime. Trust me. As a girl of a certain age, with certain (sparkling) things on her mind, I wouldn’t steer you wrong.

Speaking of which, I did mention something about a boy, didn’t I? And this is a wedding magazine. Sean and I frequent many of the locales featured in this issue. Whether it’s been a romantic stroll, an afternoon picnic with our pups or a candlelit dinner for two, we’ve delighted in every delicious second of our lives together in this enchanting region of the American South.

As you flip through these carefully coordinated pages, try to envision yourself in each shot. It shouldn’t be too difficult. For this publication, we’ve teamed up with the best and brightest photographers in the region to bring you real photos of real weddings. To learn more about each of the artists, please check out our contributors’ section, located on page 14.

If you’re a local, I hope you too feel the same admiration I do for this spectacular area. If you aren’t, I hope one day you’re fortunate enough to experience all the light and love Northwest Florida has to offer.

Happy wedding planning! We’ll be seeing you.

Yours,

Chay D. Baxley 12 2014

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS

President/Publisher

Brian E. Rowland

EDITORIAL Director of Editorial Services Linda Kleindienst Editor Chay D. Baxley Prepress Specialist Melinda Lanigan CREATIVE Creative Director Lawrence Davidson Production Manager/ Network Administrator Daniel Vitter Designer Jennifer Ekrut Advertising Designers Jillian Fry, Monica Perez SALES AND MARKETING Marketing and Sales Manager Mckenzie Burleigh Director of New Business Daniel Parisi Traffic 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, Chris St. John Marketing and Sales Assistant Derika Crowley Special Projects and Events Special Projects and Events Coordinator Lynda Belcher OPERATIONS Administrative Services Manager Melissa Tease Accounting Specialists Josh Faulds, Tabby Hamilton WEB Social Media/ Systems Management Specialist Carlin Trammel Northwest Florida Weddings Magazine is published annually by Rowland Publishing, Inc. 1932 Miccosukee Road, Tallahassee, FL 32308. 850/8780554. 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 January 2014 Northwest Florida Weddings 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.

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS 2014

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contributing photographers

ALENA BAKUTIS PHOTOGRAPHY “As a professional wedding photographer serving Florida’s Panhandle and a member of Professional Photographers of America, 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 — everything from the magical first kiss to the intimacy of the first dance at your wedding.”

ALLIE HINE Allie Hine is a 19-yearold photographer from Panama City Beach.

She currently resides in Atlanta where she is studying photography.

At the age of 13, Allie developed a passion for capturing the world around her and has channeled that love into her engagement, lifestyle and fashion photography.

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 14 2014

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.

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

DEAR WESLEYANN For a girl who craves creativity, lives for laughter, is a lover of light and believes in all things beautiful … the hearts and smiles of each couple radiate through Wesleyann’s captivating imagery. Dear Wesleyann is a destination wedding photographer who calls the Florida Panhandle “home.”

ETHERIDGE IMAGES Logan and Kristen Etheridge are a husband and wife duo with a passion for light, love and laughter. “We strive to capture photos that radiate the joy in each of our clients and tell their beautiful story. Please visit our website at etheridgeimages.com for more information.”

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS

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, Fla. with her husband and three young children.

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.”

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.”

J&J Weddings

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. See the quality for yourself at CallieGardiner.com.

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.

Check them out at gwynemarkphotography. com.

GWYNEMARK PHOTOGRAPHY 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 offers wedding, family

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.

JUBILEE PHOTOGRAPHY A Louisiana native, Amanda Eubank relocated to the Emerald Coast six years ago and is now the owner of Jubilee Photography. Amanda is a proud member of the Northwest section of Florida Professional Photographers and

provides volunteer photographic services to many in the community.

See jubileephotography. com for more details.

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. Mari is the owner of Mari Darr~Welch: Modern Photojournalist.

Florida through his lens on assignments as staff photographer for EC, Tallahassee and 850 magazines.

VIZULIZ photography RED STONE PHOTOGRAPHY

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

KELLY HARDEE PHOTOGRAPHY Kelly Hardee Photography is vintage-inspired storytelling through the art of photography. “I love capturing the beauty and love of life through photography, both film and digital. I’m based out of Nashville but love to travel.” Check kellyhardeephotography. blogspot.com for pricing or other inquiries.

MARI DARR~WELCH Mari is a fun-loving photographer who documents real emotions while creating stunning art from your candid,

OLIMB PHOTOGRAPHY Olimb Photography is based in the Florida Panhandle with the belief that photography should be firmly rooted in Christ-centered, heart-filling love. “I strive to bring a modern feel to a classic image. Like all photographers, I want my photos to stand the test of time, for them to hang on walls or sit in books on coffee tables and shelves for future generations to see.”

Alexis Rubenstein of Red Stone Photography currently lives and works on the Emerald Coast in Navarre, Fla. 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.

Scott Holstein Photography PURE 7 studios Pure 7 Studios specializes in nostalgic, sentimental wedding photography. Their work has been described as vintage-inspired, 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.

Holstein graduated from Gardner-Webb University in N.C. and began his career as assistant to famed National Geographic photographer Joe McNally, working in NYC and other high-profile locations. His portfolio at scottholsteinphoto. com includes work for nationally acclaimed publications such as the New York Times, National Geographic Adventure, Delta Sky and Golf World.

An avid outdoorsman from Central Florida, Holstein enjoys getting to know Northwest

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 PHOTO Terri Smith, photographer, 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.

“We are friends in Tallahassee who share a passion for photography, so we formed Vizuliz in March 2012 in order to share that passion. We enjoy working closely with our clients so that our creativity, combined with their inspiration, results in personalized treasured moments. We don’t just take pictures, we capture feelings.”

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

For contact information, please see page 82.

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS 2014

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from coast to city to country

16 2014

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS

The Coast is Calling.

The glowing sunset. The glistening water. The crisp, salt-kissed air.

If you’re looking for a memorable start to your life together, you might just find it on the shores of Florida’s Gulf Coast. Life and love here are about more than just having the freedom to feel the sand between your toes as you say “I do,” it’s about enjoying all the natural beauty that surrounds you while being in the company of those who you truly treasure most.

OLIMB PHOTOGRAPHY

As you inch closer and closer to the emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico, you’ll start to feel the stress of the rest of the world disappear. Don’t be alarmed — it happens all the time. For a destination wedding, nothing can compare to the eclectic ambiance of the Emerald Coast.

from coast to city to country NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS 2014

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from coast to city to country

Northwest Florida’s Emerald Coast is known for its eclectic personality, Southern charm and vibrant local flavors. As a signature Wyndham Vacation Rentals destination, Gulf Place offers all this and more. An all-inclusive resort-style venue, Gulf Place is brimming with upscale amenities, impressive accommodations and natural beauty. Situated in an ideal locale on the elegant Santa Rosa Beach, this property offers an abundance of gorgeous backdrops to choose from. Celebrate life and love under twinkling lights in a grassy enclave or by the sheen of a glowing sun, surrounded by the wide-open views of emerald waters. Photos by Pure 7 studios

Wyndham Vacation Rentals – gulf place

18 2014

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS 2014

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WYNDHAM VACATION RENTALS Red Stone PHOTOgraphy

Red Stone PHOTOgraphy

Red Stone PHOTOgraphy

from coast to city to country

20 2014

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS

Red Stone PHOTOgraphy

Callie Gardiner photoraphy

Sometimes the road less traveled is the most alluring. If coastal tranquility sounds enticing, Tops’l’s secluded location is well suited for a laidback soirée. Feel the sand between your toes as you cozy up to family, friends and, of course, your betrothed. Guests will have the luxury of staying onsite and the pleasure of experiencing this unique region in its natural state. Life is simpler — sweeter — when you let the experts of this award-winning venue take the reins. Photos by Red Stone PHOTOgraphy and Callie Gardiner Photography

Wyndham Vacation Rentals – Tops'l

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WYNDHAM VACATION RENTALS

from coast to city to country

There’s something to be said for the couple that wants to be in the center of it all. If a prestigious address and pleasing vistas are at the top of your must-have list, SunDestin’s breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico and proximity to the hustle and bustle of downtown Destin are sure to inspire an enchanting affair. Here, attendees will have limitless possibilities when it comes to leisurely exploration, while the bridal party experiences the finest of pre-nuptial amenities. Photos by Jan Ethridge photography

Wyndham Vacation Rentals – sundestin

22 2014

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS

from coast to city to country

The natural beauty of the Emerald Coast in Destin is like no other. Imagine cruising into the sunset as you say “I do” on the SOLARIS sky deck. Your guests will enjoy the forever-changing, unobstructed views and the warm, coastal breezes. Now that you are husband and wife, look out and toast your guests under the moon and stars. This is where amazing is unforgettable. Photos by Jacqueline Ward Images

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from coast to city to country

Your SunQuest wedding experience starts at the time of booking. You will work closely with your in-house wedding planner to pick the right colors, décor and unique touches to make your day the way you dreamed it would be. Your planner will guide you through incredible menus featuring the Gulf Coast’s freshest ingredients that our award-winning culinary team uses to create “art for the palate.” When the big day arrives you will not be alone. Your planner will be there to ensure all the details come together to make your day perfect. Photos by Pure 7 studios

sunquest cruises

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The yacht SOLARIS is 125 feet of elegance, featuring rich mahoganies and granite throughout the 5,300 sqare feet of passenger space. Accommodating up to 150 guests, the yacht is the perfect canvas for traditional and modern themes. The SOLARIS was designed with weddings in mind. The private bridal dressing suite on the second deck is where you relax, dress and sip champagne while preparing for the moment you’ve both been waiting for all your lives. Photos by Alena Bakutis photography

sunquest cruises

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OLIMB PHOTOGRAPHY OLIMB PHOTOGRAPHY

MARI DARR~WELCH

OLIMB PHOTOGRAPHY

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SONJA REVELLS PHOTOGRAPHY

SONJA REVELLS PHOTOGRAPHY

Set against sugar-white beaches, emerald-green waters and breathtaking vistas sits the Hilton Sandestin.

In addition to the pristine beaches, this venue also features two spacious, recently renovated indoor ballrooms along with multiple smaller rooms and a perfectly situated sundeck. 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 resort. Whether your dream wedding embodies a true destination experience or a more traditional approach, there is no desire too intimate, no request too grand, for the skilled professionals of Hilton Sandestin to bring to life. Photos by Mari Darr~Welch, Olimb Photography and Sonja Revells Photography

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from coast to city to country

While the gentlemen take in a round at the resort’s award-winning onsite golf courses, the ladies can unwind by pampering themselves at Serenity by the sea Spa — voted the Best of the Emerald Coast for a 10th consecutive year. Your family and guests can enjoy nearby shopping, take shuttles to resort activities or enroll the children in a day of fun with the resort’s “Kids Krew.” With so much to do all in one place, everyone can enjoy their own preferred indulgences while you and your betrothed sneak away to enjoy your own private sunset. Photos by Olimb Photography

hilton sandestin

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ALENA BAKUTIS PHOTOGRAPHY CALLIE GARDINER PHOTOGRAPHY

Family Matters Our families make us who we are.

Incorporating yours into your wedding day is the perfect way to say “I love you” when words simply aren’t enough.

Whether you want to coordinate a tribute to loved ones who have passed or plan to bring in carefully thought out design elements that tell the tale of your family’s heritage, don’t be afraid to ask for a little help. It takes a village.

Photos by MARI DARR~WELCH, Alena Bakutis photography & Callie Gardiner photography

getting inspired

MARI~DARR WELCH

family

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+

elegant creative unique d istinctive info@klassickatering.com | klassic-katering.com 850.894.0423 | 850.509.5005 (mobile) 32 2014

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Sophistication at its Finest.

Culture.

Charisma. And a little neFinest. sais quoi.”

Sophistication at “je its Modern romance the“je heart andquoi.” soul of Culture.

Charisma.

Andisa at little ne sais every city-based wedding in Northwest Florida.

Modern romance is at the heart and soul of every citySee your love story unfold as the brusque, based wedding in Northwest Florida. See your love sharp lines of the city scene are immediately story unfold as the brusque, sharp lines of the city softened by the smooth, twinkling glow of a scene are immediately softened by the smooth, candlelit celebration. Upscale amenities and twinkling glow of a candlelit celebration. Upscale adventures abound in this diverse melting amenities and adventures abound in this diverse pot. Bordering an alluring blend of museums, melting pot. Bordering an alluring blend of world-class restaurants, exciting nightlife and museums, world-class restaurants, exciting an array of entertainment options, this sleek, nightlife and an array of entertainment urban backdrop is impossibly intertwined options, this sleek, urban backdrop is with its southern heritage. Here, there’s no intertwined with its Southern heritage. Here, need to forfeit your appreciation of grace there’s no need to forfeit your appreciation to your devotion to clean, crisp style and of grace to your devotion to clean, crisp style avant-garde architecture. and avant-garde architecture.

The city vista is polished, cultured and The city vista is polished, cultured and vivacious — just like the couples that choose vivacious — just like the couples that to call it theirs. choose to call it their own.

KAY MEYER PHOTOGRAPHY

This photograph was taken at the Florida State University Alumni Center. For more details, see pages 34 and 35.

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KAY MEYER PHOTOGRAPHY

J&J WEDDINGS

J&J WEDDINGS

KAY MEYER PHOTOGRAPHY

KAY MEYER PHOTOGRAPHY

from coast to city to country

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KAY MEYER PHOTOGRAPHY

KAY MEYER PHOTOGRAPHY

FSU ALUMNI CENTER J&J WEDDINGS

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. Photos by J&J WEDDINGS and KAY MEYER PHOTOGRAPHY

fsu alumni center

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from coast to city to country

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Sustaining a sleek, modern vibe throughout your wedding weekend can create a cohesive atmosphere for you and your guests, seamlessly intertwining one festive event into the next. If you’re planning a city-based soirée, Aloft Hotel is located in the heart of Tallahassee, nestled between many of the most desirable Downtown and Midtown locales. Its convenient setting, combined with this fresh and exciting hotel’s 160-plus rooms, makes it the ideal spot for out-of-town guests to rest their heads. Aloft’s expansive property also presents the opportunity to host a completely personalized rehearsal dinner or welcome reception, held in the ultraposh W XYZ Lounge, just steps away from the hotel’s impeccable overnight accommodations. Photos COURTESY ALOFT HOTEL

aloft hotel

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lewis JOHNSON photography

lewis JOHNSON photography

from coast to city to country

Located in the city center, just steps from downtown Tallahassee and Florida State University, sits this brilliant sapphire landmark. As Tallahassee’s newest luxury hotel, Four Points by Sheraton has made every effort to make Florida’s capital city a more eco-friendly destination. Here, you and your guests will enjoy the delicious convenience of onsite catering in the resort’s ballroom by night and then be able to dive into the cool, crisp pool by day. With more than 150 rooms that are the finest in accommodations, your entire guest list is welcome to join in on the fun. Photos by lewis johnson photography and COURTESY FOUR

four points by sheraton

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Where Dreams Take Flight WEDDING CEREMONIES & RECEPTIONS

| REHEARSAL DINNERS | BRIDESMAIDS LUNCHEONS

3700 G OLDEN E AGLE D RIVE , T ALLAHASSEE , F LORIDA | 850.893.7700 | 40 2014

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GOLDENEAGLECC . ORG

A Country Escape.

Elegant estates lined with giant oaks.

Vibrant, fragrant gardens. Lush, rolling hills.

Pure 7 studios

Wandering through the countryside of Northwest Florida is like taking a trip back in time. The land itself exudes Old World romance at every turn. Awe-inspiring venues emerge from the deep, jeweltoned hues of nature. Here, you’ll have the luxury of deciding between an intimate, secret garden-inspired ceremony and an impressive, plantation-style soirée. Modern styles derived from rustic charm, Frenchcountry heritage and vintage designs are perfectly aligned with these breathtaking backdrops. Embracing a strong allegiance to natural beauty and understated elegance, Northwest Florida’s spectacular country landscapes offer couples a timeless scene to fit with the most enchanting of love affairs.

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VIZULIZ PHOTOGRAPHY

TERRI SMITH PHOTO

FAIRYTALES WEDDING & SPECIAL EVENT SERVICES

from coast to city to country

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TERRI SMITH PHOTO

TERRI SMITH PHOTO TERRI SMITH PHOTO

These lush and elegantly manicured grounds are as rich in history as they are in the jeweled hues of the hundreds of azaleas that burst into color each spring. With its pristine natural backdrop, crystal-clear reflection pools and charming cottages, intimacy and relaxation are the true foundation of this venue. Guests have room to roam and plenty to discover. For evening events, the grounds are highlighted with landscape lighting, offering a dramatic effect. For rental reservations, Fairytales Wedding & Special Event Services can arrange all the details. Photos by TERRI SMITH PHOTO and VIZULIZ PHOTOGRAPHY

MACLAY GARDENS

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from coast to city to country

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Golden Eagle’s impressive country club venue is the perfect setting for a classically inspired celebration. After exchanging vows lakefront in the open air or under the shade of majestic pines, relax inside with family and friends as the staff of this all-inclusive venue serves up culinary delights. Located in the northern corridor of Tallahassee, these manicured grounds combined with the club’s traditional architecture create an easily personalized, elegant scene worthy of the entire day’s activities. Photos by Michelle Griggs

golden eagle country club

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from coast to city to country

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The old saying has it right; beauty truly is in the eye of the beholder. If the natural quality of untouched, Southern countryside is what defines beauty to you, then Honey Lake Plantation Resort & Spa, located in small-town Greenville, is something you simply can’t afford to miss. Surrounded by 4,700 acres of lush land, including an 80-acre spring-fed private lake, the resort at Honey Lake represents tranquility at its finest. The romantic, rustic atmosphere that characterizes this unique property has been delicately incorporated in all its finishing touches, including the enchanting antique stained-glass windows illuminating the chapels walls. Photos COURTESY HONEY LAKE PLANTATION

honey lake planatation

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from coast to city to country

At Honey Lake, skilled professionals expertly coordinate everything from the rehearsal dinner to Sunday’s brunch. Guests can reserve any of the 34 onsite overnight accommodations, including many cottages with multiple bedrooms, making this venue the ideal location for a destination wedding. With its succulent, Southern onsite catering and plenty of outdoor activities for the fellows, it’s hard to believe this classic country retreat is less than 45 minutes from the hustle and bustle of downtown Tallahassee. Photos by J&J WEDDINGS

honey lake planatation

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HONEY LAKE PLANTATION PURE 7 STUDIOS

Back to Nature Fresh is always alluring. If you’re feeling a tad uninspired, take a cue from nature by streamlining your ceremony to the bare essentials. Combine newly cut flowers with a lush yet simple color palette to help blend the scene seamlessly. If an outdoor ceremony is out of the question, consider bringing nature inside. For an earthy, coastal celebration, try filling mason jars with sand and flickering candlelight for a relaxed glow.

Photos by Jan Ethridge photography, Pure 7 Studios and COURTESY HONEY LAKE PLANTATION

JAN ETHRIDGE PHOTOGRAPHY

getting inspired

nature

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It’s All in the Details.

A carefree, whirlwind romance may have led you to this moment, but if you’re in search of the perfect wedding, the pace of your life is about to pick up. There are the invitations to think of, venue choices, floral arrangements and bridal gifts.

Not to mention finding the most delicious caterer, a rocking band, and, of course, the dress.

In this land of perpetual wedding planning, research is key. Finding trustworthy vendors will make this process soar by.

Truth is, your wedding is more than just the sum of its parts.

When fate brings you vendors who understand that, and are as eager about the big day as you, then the stars have truly aligned.

MARI DARR~WELCH

In Northwest Florida, we know who’s who. Let us point you in the right direction.

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DeAR WESLEYANN HELLO MISS LOVELY

HELLO MISS LOVELY DeAR WESLEYANN

making it happen

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HELLO MISS LOVELY

ETHERIDGE IMAGES

After the vows are exchanged and the cake is sliced, there are only three tangible and enduring objects you’ll be able to take with you as a memento of your special day — the photographs, the rings and your dress. In years to come, these items will become tokens 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. With a blend of lace and grace, Dream Gowns has put at ease the minds of beautiful brides everywhere, one gleaming frock at a time. Photos by Dear Wesleyann,

dream gowns

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HELLO MISS LOVELY

ETHERIDGE IMAGES

DeAR WESLEYANN

ETHERIDGE IMAGES

HELLO MISS LOVELY

DeAR WESLEYANN

making it happen

DeAR WESLEYANN

Across Florida’s colorful Panhandle, Dream Gowns has become the stuff of local legend for fusing the beloved, personal touch found in petite shops with the versatility of big city vendors. Whilst there, indulge in designers like Mori Lee, Maggie Sottero, Allure and innumerable others. 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 Dear Wesleyann, Etheridge Images and

dream gowns

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making it happen

Attention to detail 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

john gandy events

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From lighting to seating and 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, too.

john gandy events

Photos by Black & Hue Photography

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making it happen

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MARI DARR~WELCH MARI DARR~WELCH

GWYNEMARKL PHOTOGRAPHY

JUBILEE PHOTOGRAPHY

BRITTNAY THERESE PHOTOGRAPHY (OPPOSITE PAGE)

GWYNEMARK PHOTOGRAPHY

MARI DARR~WELCH

making it happen

In the heart of Sandestin sits Bistro Bijoux, a deliciously upscale dining and catering option. Bite after succulent bite, this coastal haven has garnered the ringing endorsement of local gourmets by pairing Southern hospitality with fine French cuisine in a tasteful setting. Now, Bistro Bijoux is bringing an extensive knowledge and a dedication to fresh, coastal cuisine off-site for receptions and events. Couples can seamlessly merge the mouthwatering aromatics of diligently crafted platters, artisan hors d’oeuvres and entrées with their special day. Photos by Brittnay Therese Photography, GWYNEMARK PHOTOGRAPHY, JUBILEE PHOTOGRAPHY

bistro bijoux

and MARI DARR~WELCH NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS 2014

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A highly versatile venue, this restaurant is a perfect setting for a private reception or a buzzing rehearsal dinner.

Flush with both indoor and outdoor seating, Bistro Bijoux can accommodate up to 150 guests comfortably and is also well suited for a more intimate guest list. Cozied within the restaurant’s private yet elegant walls, friends can indulge in decadent seafood flavors, like the unique combination of oysters and brie or crawfish and corn beignets, and savor the Bistro’s assortment of exceptional French wine.

bistro bijoux

Photos by kelly hardee photography and brittnay therese photography

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BRITTNAY THERESE PHOTOGRAPHY

kelly hardee photography

kelly hardee photography

kelly hardee photography

making it happen

MARI~DARR WELCH BRITTNAY THERESE PHOTOGRAPHY

A Flair for Vintage Nostalgia is a powerful thing.

Incorporating hints of historical touches [think Gatsby-esque] into a ceremony can lend a rich yet effortless ambiance to the festivities. Vibrant red lipstick, a delicate lace veil, muted dusty hues, softly pinned curls, smooth twinkling lights — subtle and enduring, these vintage inspired designs add a touch of luxury and elegance to an already memorable affair.

Photos by Pure 7 Studios, MARI DARR~WELCH and Brittnay Therese Photography

getting inspired

PURE 7 STUDIOS

history

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making it happen

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Imagine the exhilaration of slicing through a cobalt sky in pure, polished luxury. When time is of the essence, Nicholas Air’s services are a reliable alternative to the bustling atmosphere at big city airports and the sometimes unpredictable schedules of commercial airlines. With Nicholas Air, you will have access to a fleet that is five years or newer and the ability to use three different aircraft types. Whether they’re whisking away newlyweds to a romantic location or ensuring guests arrive on time, Nicholas Air’s elite jet service is renowned for providing quality transportation in a relaxed setting. Photos COURTESY NICHOLAS AIR

nicholas air

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COURTESY KRISTIE MCLANE

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COURTESY KRISTIE MCLANE

ALLIE HINE PHOTOGRAPHY

COURTESY KRISTIE MCLANE

making it happen

Maharaja's has been dazzling brides since 1977 with romantic, classical-inspired jewelry. Your life together officially starts when you slip on those two bands — so make sure they're the right ones. Equipped with expert advice and a vast selection, including designers like Henri Daussi, Hearts on Fire and Forevermark to name a few, this versatile jeweler is the suitable choice for any anxious groom-to-be. Photos BY ALLIE HINE photography AND COURTESY KRISTIE MCLANE

maharaja's

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SCOTT HOLSTEIN photography

SCOTT HOLSTEIN photography

making it happen

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SCOTT HOLSTEIN photography

The modern couple isn’t bound by tradition. It’s important to remember that your wedding day is your special day. Let your personality shine through by selecting tasteful items that represent something special to you and your fiancé. Sunset Shoes offers an array of footwear and clothing that can help you enjoy this fun, once-in-a-lifetime celebration. Looking forward to a laidback picturesque ceremony on the beach? Feel the sand between your toes in glistening flip-flops. Is a grassroots, countryside soirée more your scene? Cowboy boots it is, then. And don’t forget about the honeymoon, where you’ll need plenty of comfortable, yet stylish, options to choose from. Photos by scott holstein photography and COURTESY SUNSET LIFESTYLES

sunset Lifestyles

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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 and courtesy andrew's catering

andrew’s catering

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ANDREW'S CATERING

ANDREW'S CATERING

ANDREW'S CATERING

J & J WEDDINGS

ANDREW'S CATERING

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

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“Before my experience with Dr. Rainey and his team, I didn’t have the confidence to smile. I am thrilled that I gave a real genuine smile on my wedding day.”

–Annette Broome Papp

221 E. 7th Avenue • Tallahassee, Florida 32303 850.385.3700 • www.DrRainey.com 72 2014

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making it happen

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Our atmosphere of tranquility and relaxation will help you to de-stress, re-energize and create balance in your life.

2709 Killarney Way | Tallahassee, Florida 850.893.9944 | sagespatallahassee.com License# MM10684

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

Create your own oasis and surround yyourself with what you

Love

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Distinctive, Timeless, Coastal Elegance for the Home 542 Harrison Avenue | Historic Downtown Panama City, FL 850.215.7542 | AvenueSea.com | avenueseapc@knology.net

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BEST ENTERTAINMENT VENUE

THE SOUTHWOOD HOUSE 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

Tallahassee’s Gathering Place for…

Beautiful Weddings & Great Events!

9002 Bradley Rd • Tallahassee, FL 32309 850-561-6328 • Fax: 850-224-0993

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The GFWC Woman’s Club of Tallahassee has hosted memorable events for over 100 years.

Receive a discount when booking both a Friday night rehearsal dinner and Saturday wedding.

1513 Cristobal Drive · 850-224-0825 · gfwcwomanscluboftallahassee.org

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making it happen

The newest wedding & event venue on Scenic 30A 61 Topsail Village Drive | Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459 850.499.2652 | thecelebrationhall@gmail.com | thecelebrationhall.com

Built on the 1911 foundation of historic Goodwood Plantation’s original carriage house and stables, this new building — surrounded by brick terraces and walkways — is the perfect venue for your picturesque Tallahassee wedding.

1600 Miccosukee Road · 850-877-4202 · goodwoodmuseum.org 78 2014

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Fairytale Wedding FOR THE FRUGAL BRIDE

Fairytales

Wedding & Special Event Services

WEDDING & EVENT PLANNING • COORDINATING C E R E M O N Y D I R E C T O R S • PA R T Y R E N TA L S & S U P P L I E S White Marquee Tents | Round & Cocktail Tables | White Resin Chairs | Dance Floors Patio Heaters | White Grecian Columns | White Wedding Arches | Linens & Dishware Glassware & Barware | Champagne Fountains

(850) 524-1661 • Fair ytaleServices.com NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS 2014

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pure7films.com | info@pure7films.com | 850.654.6523

Dreaming of the perfect venue?

S

t. George Island is the perfect atmosphere for a beachside wedding.

Quiet and uncrowded, you’ll fall in love with all the island has to offer.

At Collins Vacation Rentals, we have been helping our guests enjoy amazing vacations and fabulous events for 40 years.

Romantic Destination

BEACH OR GARDEN WEDDING PACKAGE $999 23 Luxurious Suites • 6 Romantic Jacuzzi Suites Beach House • Complimentary Wedding Planner, Breakfast, Champagne-Wine, Beach Chairs, Bicycles

Visit us online at www.collinsvacationrentals.com/w2014 or call 877-271-2438

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St. George Island • Apalachicola 850.653.9199 • coombshouseinn.com

We don’t follow the trends, we create them!

Fresh Floral Creations · Event Design · Decor + Rentals At L a st F l o ra l s . c o m · 8 5 0. 51 9. 23 0 5

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resource guide Advertiser Index Aloft Tallahassee Downtown �������������������������������p.77 200 N. Monroe St., Tallahassee, FL 32301 alofttallahassee.com, (850) 513-0313 Andrew’s Catering ����������������������������������������������������p. 8, 9 228 S. Adams St., Tallahassee, FL 32301 andrewsdowntown.com, (850) 222-3444 At Last Florals ������������������������������������������������������������������p. 81 51 Yellow Jacket Ave., Sopchoppy, FL 32358 atlastflorals.com, (850) 519-2305 Avenue Sea ������������������������������������������������������������������������� p. 74 542 Harrison Ave., Panama City, FL 32401 (850) 215-7542

John Gandy Events ������������������������������������������������������p. 13 3463 Garber Dr., Tallahassee, FL 32303 johngandyevents.com, (850) 570-5999 Klassic Katering �������������������������������������������������������������p. 32 2207 Bannerman Road, Tallahassee, FL 32312 klassickatering.com, (850) 894-0423 Maharaja’s �������������������������������������������������������������������������� p. 50 105 W 23rd St., Panama City, FL 32405 shopmaharajas.com, (850) 763-4224 Nicholas Air ����������������������������������������������������������������������� p. 16 P O Box 8889, Columbus, MS 39705 nicholasair.com, (866) 935-7771

B-Boy Productions �������������������������������������������������������p. 73 bboyproductions.com, (888) 825-0655

Palms of Destin, The ���������������������������������������������������p. 81 4201 Indian Bayou Trail, Destin, FL 32541 palmsofdestin.com, (850) 351-0500

Bistro Bijoux �������������������������������������������������������������������������p. 2 9100 Baytowne Blvd., Miramar Beach, FL 32550 bistrobijouxdestin.com, (850) 622-0760

Pure 7 Films ����������������������������������������������������������������������p. 80 pure7films.com, (877) 865-PURE (7873)

Celebration Hall ������������������������������������������������������������p. 78 61 Topsail Village Drive, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459 thecelebrationhall.com, (850) 499-2652 Collins Vacations Rentals ������������������������������������ p. 80 60 East Gulf Beach Drive, Eastpoint, FL 32328 collinsvacationrentals.com, (850) 927-5469 Coombs Inn ����������������������������������������������������������������������� p. 80 80 Sixth St., Apalachicola, FL 32320 coombshouseinn.com, (850) 653-9199 Dream Gowns ���������������������������������������������������������������p. 6, 7 619 Hwy 231, Panama City, FL 32405 shopdreamgowns.com, (850) 248-4696 Fairytales Wedding & Special Events Services ������������������������������������������p. 79 P. O. Box 180306, Tallahassee, FL 32318 fairytaleservices.com, (850) 524-1661

Rainey, Russell B, DMD ��������������������������������������������p. 72 221 E 7th Ave, Tallahassee, FL 32303 drrainey.com, (850) 385-3700 Retreat At Bradley's Pond, The ������������������������p. 76 9002 Bradley Road, Tallahassee, FL 32309 bradleyspond.com, (850) 561-6328 Sage Spa ������������������������������������������������������������������������������� p. 74 2709-2 Killarney Way, Tallahassee, FL 32309 sagespatallahassee.com, (850) 893-9944 Southwood Golf Club ������������������������������������������������p. 76 3750 Grove Park Dr., Tallahassee, FL 32311 southwoodgolf.com, (850) 942-4653 Sunquest Cruises/Solaris ��������������������������������������p. 84 P. O. Box 6948, Miramar Beach, FL 32550 sunquestcruises.com, (850) 650-2519

Black & Hue Photography �����������������������������p. 58, 59 blackandhueproject.com Brittnay Therese Photography ������p. 60, 62, 63 brittnaytherese.com, (850) 461-6327 Callie Cardiner Photography ����������������������p. 21, 31 calliegardiner.com Dear Wesleyann ������������������������������������p. 52, 53, 54, 55 dearwesleyann.com, (850) 708-1250 Etheridge Images �����������������������������������������������������p. 53, 54 etheridge-images.com Gwynemark Photography ����������������������������������������p. 61 gwynemarkphotography.com, (850) 376-3066 Hello Miss Lovely ��������������������������������������������p. 52, 53, 54 hellomisslovely.com, (850) 774-3041 j&j weddings ���������������������������������������������p. 34, 35, 48, 70 jandjweddings.com, (850) 933-6033 Jacqueline Ward Images ��������������������������������������������p. 23 jacquelinewardimages.com, (850) 527-1205 Jan Ethridge Photography ���������������������������p. 22, 49 jcethridgephotography.com, (850) 758-0873 Jubilee Photography ��������������������������������������������������������p. 61 jubileephotography.com, (850) 459-7751 Kay Meyer Photography �����������������������p. 33, 34, 35 kaymeyerphotography.com, (850) 894-4529 Kelly Hardee Photography ���������������������������������������p. 62 kellyhardeephotography.blogspot.com, (336) 997-1525 Lewis Johnson Photography ��������������������������������p. 39 lejphotography.com, (850) 583-0040

Sunset Shoes ��������������������������������������������������������������������p. 83 9375 Hwy 98 W, Suite 3, Destin, FL 32550 sunsetshoesonline.net, (850) 837-5466

Mari Darr~Welch: Modern Photojournalist ���������p. 11, 28, 29, 31, 51, 61, 63 maridarrwelch.com, (850) 699-3403

FSU Alumni Center ����������������������������������p. 33, 34, 35 1030 W. Tennessee St, Tallahassee, FL 32304 one.fsu.edu/page.aspx?pid=702, (850) 644-2761

Vue on 30A ��������������������������������������������������������������������������p. 81 4801 W. Co. Hwy 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459 vueon30a.com, (850) 267-2305

Olimb Photography ����������������������������p. 17, 28, 29, 30 olimbphotography.com

Golden Eagle ��������������������������������������������������������������������p. 40 3700 Golden Eagle Dr., Tallahassee, FL 32312 goldeneaglecc.org, (850) 893-7700

Woman's Club of Tallahassee ����������������������������p. 76 1513 Cristobal Dr., Tallahassee, FL 32303 womanscluboftallahassee.org, (850) 386-5966

Goodwood Museum & Gardens ����������������������p. 78 1600 Miccosukee Road, Tallahassee, FL 32308 goodwoodmuseum.org, (850) 877-4202

Wyndham Vacation Rentals ����������������������������p. 4, 5 546 Mary Esther Cut-Off NW, Ste 3, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548 nwflweddings.com, (888) 412-6408

Four Points By Sheraton Downtown ������������p. 75 316 W. Tennessee St., Tallahassee, FL 32301 fourpoints.com/Tallahassee, (850) 422-0071

Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort and Spa ���������������������������������������������������p. 10 4000 Sandestin Blvd. S, Miramar Beach, FL 32550 sandestinbeachhilton.com, (850) 267-9604 Honey Lake Plantation/ Williamson Group Company ��������������������������������� p. 3 1290 NW Honey Lake Road, Greenville, FL 32331 honeylakeplantation.com, (850) 948-2309

82 2014

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS

Pure 7 Studios ������p. 1, 18, 19, 24, 25, 41, 49, 63 pure7studios.com, (877) 865-PURE (7873) Red Stone Photography ������������������������������������p. 20, 21 redstonephotos.com, (850) 585-5535 Scott Holstein Photography ��������������p. 12, 68, 69 scottholsteinphoto.com, (352) 476-3279 Sonja Revells Photography ��������������������������������������p. 29 sonyarevell.com, (415) 913-9597

Photographer Index

Terri Smith Photo ��������������������������������������������p. 11, 42, 43 terrismithphoto.com, (850) 321-5609

Alena Bakutis Photography �����������������p. 26, 27, 31 alenabakutis.com, (850) 778-5370

Vizuliz Photography ���������������������������������������������������������p. 42 vizuliz.com

Allie Hine Photography ������������������������������������������������p. 67 alliehine.com, (850) 319-2097

Woodland Fields Photography �����������������p. 56, 57 woodlandfieldsphotography.com, (850) 559-1095

THE MARKET SHOPS AT SANDESTIN Destin, Florida

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the good life Food + Travel + Hea lth + Home

eudaimonia*

Beautification Meets Education

The Florida heat sucks moisture out of backyard plants all year round. If you are having difficulty maintaining your thirsty flora, check out the new Native Plant Demonstration Garden and Trail at Northwest Florida State College.

The park is located at the college’s South Walton Center, 109 Greenway Trail, Santa Rosa Beach.

In addition to showcasing local flowers, the garden provides demonstrations so you can grow these plants in your own backyard. Walton County Master Gardeners hope to someday provide non-credit classes at the park for amateur horticulturists interested in Florida-friendly gardening.

Native plants can make your garden more water-efficient, because Florida plants have adapted to survive with less water.

The scenic park is also enjoyable for those who are less than keen on playing in the dirt. The half-mile-long trail offers a paved path to stroll or pedal. You can pick up a free trail guide that highlights the plants that are unique to Northwest Florida, like fragrant wild azaleas and towering yellow poplars. You might just be inspired to plant something beautiful.

— Lauren Gillespie

*happiness is ...

Photo by Scott Holstein

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DEAL Estate

in the neighborhood

Go to emeraldcoastmagazine.com for REAL ESTATE listings

Facts and Stats All statistics listed below pertain to sales in November 2013 and are provided by the Emerald Coast Association of Realtors, Florida Realtor and the National Association of Realtors.

LOCAL

On average, Okaloosa County’s closed single family home sales received 93.5% of their original list price.

A clear choice for the coastal lifestyle

By Zandra Wolfgram

I

nspired by the architecture of Seaside — one of New Urbanism’s most iconic beach towns on the Gulf — Crystal Beach is a neat neighborhood on the south side of Highway 98 in Destin of about 500 “Nantucket”-style singlefamily homes with clapboard siding, metal roofs and quaint white picket fences. The first homes were developed in the late 1980s and early 1990s and range in size, but the majority are three- and four-bedroom, two- and sometimes three-story homes that range from 1,700 to 2,400 square feet.

Today, there are four subdivisions: Crystal Beach, Shores of Crystal Beach, Crystal Shores and Crystal Beach Cottages I and II. The amenities of each differ — some have a community pool, for example — but all are near the beach.

“It’s cute, close to the beach and close to 98 and priced at the bottom of the market,” says Richard Eimers, veteran real estate broker and managing partner of Eimers Group Real Estate and Land.

Like Seaside, which it was modeled after, Crystal Beach was designed as a neighborhood for primary residences, but over the years the mix of the community has shifted, and it has become an attractive investment for those seeking a second home and vacation property. Today, Eimers guesstimates that less than 30 percent of the homes are still primary residences.

The Brady family saw Crystal Beach as the perfect place in Destin to raise a family of four. They purchased a three-bedroom, three-bath cottage in 1997 and added on a bedroom, bath and small garage. “We left the suburbs of Memphis. Our whole reason for moving to Destin was to experience life at the beach,” Mike Brady says. Walking distance to the beach, a safe, family-friendly feel and a convenient neighborhood pool meant Crystal Beach Cottages II “fit the bill.” Today, Brady

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is president of his neighborhood homeowner’s association, which works to maintain the integrity of the architectural guidelines and covenants, and the upkeep of common areas. “The amenities add appeal and help with property values,” he says.

If it fits your budget, Eimers says there are essentially three market categories that will get you a Crystal Beach address. Tier 3 properties are below $500,000. There are currently nine for sale with an average asking price of $439,967 or $244 per square foot. Tier 2 includes homes priced above a half million that are not on the Gulf. In 2012 there were 13 such homes sold with an average selling price of $668,500 or $207 per square foot. If you want Gulffront property, there are 15 homes for sale with an average asking price of $822,660 and up. In the past two years there were two sold, one for $1.8 million and one for $3.8 million or $813 per square foot.

There are some considerations for buying in Crystal Beach. Though there are a few opportunities for new construction (four new houses were recently built near Luke and Dolphin streets), most of the homes, particularly those that have been used as vacation rental property, are showing some age. Location is another factor. The development is located in Flood Zone X. This isn’t a deal breaker for every buyer, but if you are financing through the VA (Veteran Affairs), it will be.

The time to buy or invest in Crystal Beach is now. Home values are beginning to rise, and inventory is moving quickly. In fact, they are selling at 93.41 percent of asking price and are on the market 17 fewer days in 2013 than 2012. “Arguably, Crystal Beach has some of the lowest priced coastal property along the Emerald Coast,” Eimers says.

“Comparing it to other coastal neighborhoods between the Destin Bridge and 30A, dollar for dollar it delivers the greatest bang for the buck and offers the greatest opportunity for improvement.” ec

Walton County closed 145 single family home sales — 53 of which were paid in cash. 132 were traditional sales, 15 were foreclosures and 13 were short sales.

STATE

The median sale price for single family homes in Florida was $169,900 — a 13.3% increase over last November.

Townhouse and condo inventory (active listings) in Florida increased by 1.3% between November 2012 and 2013.

National

Nationally, total housing inventories are 1.2% below the 4.96 million-unit pace in November 2012.

The national median existing-home price for all housing types was $196,300 in November, up 9.4% from November 2012.

Photo by Scott Holstein and Courtesy of Destin Homes (Camelot)

Crystal Beach

DEAL Estate

just listed

Go to emeraldcoastmagazine.com for REAL ESTATE listings

Camelot

When only a beachfront kingdom will do

By Chay D. Baxley

F

it for royalty, this Destiny by the Sea property was lovingly named “Camelot” by its original owners for its expansive views, plush interior and idyllic location.

“It’s a castle on the beach,” joked listing agent Andrea W. Farrell of Beachy Beach Destin.

Farrell’s jest isn’t far off. Built in 2003, coastal glamour characterizes this property inside and out. Set against the emerald waters of the Gulf, the bold coral hue gracing the home’s towering exterior truly pops. Indoors, the upscale yet tropical vibe continues in all of the main living areas with a combination of modern furnishings, 10-foot high ceilings, and marble and travertine flooring. The property also boasts a true chefs kitchen lined with rich cherry cabinetry and top-of-the-line appliances.

And don’t forget the pool and the elevator.

According to Farrell, this listing is suitable as both a primary residence and an income property and has generated an abundance of interest since landing on the market in late November 2013. With a 50-foot stretch of private beach to help grab the attention of vacation goers, Farrell believes Camelot could earn up to $300,000 per year as a rental property.

4722 Ocean Blvd., Destin

“I see someone coming in who wants to utilize it as a second home and as a phenomenal investment,” shared Farrell on Camelot’s potential investors. “I always tell people [Destin] is where people come to make their dreams come true and to create forever moments with their families.” ec

Quick Look

List Price: $4,495,000 ($946.91/square foot) Square Feet: 4,747 Bedrooms: 5 Bathrooms: 5 ½ Contact: Andrea W. Farrell, Beachy Beach Destin LLC, (850) 259-1625

Dedicated to Luxury y Real Estate Kelly Plantation K John Cook

•

850.582.0874

•

Coldwell Banker United, Realtors

www.JohnCookDestin.com

•

•

4458 Legendary Drive

•

Suite 100

•

Destin, FL 32541

John.Cook@cbunited.com

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DEAL Estate

just sold

Go to emeraldcoastmagazine.com for REAL ESTATE listings

An Easy Sell

Diligent upkeep and realistic pricing pays off

By Chay D. Baxley

T

6330 Augusta Cove, Destin

The home, built in 2004, property under contract after a had been well maintained and mere two months on the market.

Quick Look: updates had been routinely According to Cook, there’s List Price: $875,000 Sold For: $815,000 implemented — two factors something to be learned from Square Feet: 4,040 that quickly endeared potenthis listing’s good fortune.

Bedrooms: 4 tial buyers. Of course, the golf “I think the house was well Bathrooms: 4 course view, swimming pool priced and was in good condiand hot tub, plus a three-car tion,” stated Cook. “I think those garage and wine cellar didn’t hurt either. are the two most important attributes if you The impressive combination of realistic want to go ahead and sell a property rather amenities helped get this Augusta Cove than just list it and let it sit there.” ec

Not all real estate websites are created equally ...

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Go ahead, Give it a Try AND Be a Local! www.John.BealocalDestin.com

John Jay Holahan Top selling agent for Eimers Group since 2008 Representing buyers and sellers from Destin to Rosemary Beach John Jay Holahan, Realtor® · 850.337.0800 · www.John.BealocalDestin.com

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Photos courtesy of FedEX

his home hit the real estate trifecta, with a mix of ample curb appeal, convenient location and in-house amenities.

Despite being lavish in appearance with its romantic, Mediterranean-inspired architecture and grand entryway, this listing was actually marketed as a practical home for a successful, up-and-coming young family.

“It had really been upgraded,” explained listing agent John Cook of Coldwell Banker on the buyer’s motivation to purchase. “It was a great family home. [The buyers] were a fairly young family with three small kids who were just looking for something along that order. They had looked at several other properties I had listed as well, but that was the one. The lady of the house seemed to really like it.”

DEAL Estate

it’s just business

Okaloosa County

▪ Destin Commons recently announced that national retailers Charming Charlie and Icing by Claire’s will open this summer as part of a 100,000-square-foot expansion currently under construction.

Charming Charlie will occupy over 6,000 square feet adjacent to Uncle Buck’s on the south end of the expansion near the corner of U.S. Highway 98 and Danny Wuerffel Way (Mid-Bay Bridge Road). Icing by Claire’s, a second brand by parent company Claire’s, will occupy nearly 2,000 square feet near H&M at the expansion’s northeast corner.

Go to emeraldcoastmagazine.com for REAL ESTATE listings

Park. When fully operational, it should be able to process about 3,000 packages an hour.

▪ North Lagoon Partners of Panama City Beach has kicked off the Pirate’s Cove Marina Generation II expansion project.

The new 120,000-square-foot facility will offer state-of-the-art indoor, secure dry storage for 440 boats up to 45 feet in length.

▪ Lighthouse Marina in Panama City Beach can now boast Bud & Alley’s Waterfront Restaurant & Marina Club. The original Bud & Alley’s, on 30A in Seaside, is South Walton County’s longest established restaurant. The menu embraces the seafood of the North Florida coastal lowlands, serving only the freshest locally available ingredients. ec

▪ Longtime Destin residents and real estate duo Chad and Jen Knaepple have launched Taylor Allen Properties, a real estate agency specializing in residential, commercial and investment sales in the 30A area.

Bay & Escambia Counties

▪ FedEx Ground has opened a nearly 60,000-square-foot package distribution facility on the Port Panama City Intermodal

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ms. grow-it-all

Garden BFFs Companion Planting is a Smart Idea with a Long History By Audrey Post Q: I’m trying to reduce my use of chemicals, such as synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, in my garden. A friend recommended companion planting, in addition to using organic products.

What do you suggest I do to get started?

A: Not only does companion planting work, it’s also smart gardening. You can save both time and money by grouping plants together that encourage each other to grow more robustly, attract beneficial insects and pollinators, or repel pests known to favor certain neighbors. Sometimes it’s the odor or aroma of a plant that offers protection for its companions. Other times, it’s secretions from the root of the plant that build up in the soil. Occasionally, it’s both.

Early European settlers learned to plant beans and corn together from Native Americans, who showed them how the corn provides a structure for the bean vines to climb, enabling them to grow two crops in the space of one. The beans attract beneficial insects to eat many of the pests that prey upon corn and, as members of the legume family, also “fix” the nitrogen in the soil and make it available for other plants to use.

Certain combinations have been practiced for years, such as planting marigolds with tomatoes, which supposedly repels nematodes.

But the effect is cumulative within the soil, so you have to plant marigolds with your tomatoes for a year or two, minimum, to reap the benefit. The pungent odor of old-fashioned marigolds may repel certain insects, too; some of the newer hybrids lack the smell the older varieties had.

Another well-known pairing is garlic with roses. Some gardeners have reported similar success by planting garlic chives near roses.

Garlic chives thrive in our area, and they have an added benefit of attracting bees and butterflies when they bloom. Parsley and carrots also seem to offer protection for tomatoes.

Some plants that make good culinary partners also make good garden partners, such as cabbage and dill. Dill tends to get tall and floppy and the cabbage heads lend support, while the dill attracts beneficial wasps that feed on cabbageworms. Basil and tomatoes, a classic pairing in the kitchen, are also a good garden duo. Beets and lettuce make a great salad and great neighbors in the garden. Collard greens go well with potatoes, on the plate and in the garden.

Some plants don’t play well with any others. Fennel is one such character. Whether you plant Florence fennel for its edible base or bronze fennel for its foliage, make sure you give it its own area of the garden, well away from other vegetables. Both make beautiful plants and butterflies love them.

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Several books offer guidance on companion planting, but not all the advice they contain is appropriate for our area. You need to know what grows during which seasons here to get the most out of these resources.

For example, “Great Garden Companions” by Sally Jean Cunningham suggests planting nasturtiums with cucumbers, both to repel cucumber beetles and to attract predatory, or beneficial, insects that eat some of the bugs that cause problems. That’s great advice farther north, where cooler summers allow nasturtiums and cucumbers to thrive in the garden at the same time. Here in the Florida Panhandle, nasturtiums are a cool-weather edible flower and cucumbers are a warm-weather crop. The book still offers a lot of good general tips on companion planting, as long as you remember where you’re gardening.

Another handy book on companion planting is “Carrots Love Tomatoes” by Louise Riotte. She advocates planting carrots and leeks together, because each seems to repel the flies that plague the other.

Both grow during our cool season, so this works here. However, like Cunningham’s book, there are a few mismatches.

If you’re not sure what grows when across North Florida, check out a great book by James Stevens called “Vegetable Gardening in Florida.” Stevens, a University of Florida professor who helped found the Florida Master Gardener program, specifies when to plant various vegetables in different areas of the state. You can also find advice for North Florida taken from Stevens’ book at the Leon County Extension Service’s website at http://bit.ly/180lwtc. © 2014 Postscript Publishing, all rights reserved. Audrey Post is a certified Advanced Master Gardener volunteer with the University of Florida IFAS Extension in Leon County. Email her at Questions@MsGrowItAll.com or visit her website at msgrowitall.com. Ms. Grow-It-All® is a registered trademark of Postscript Publishing. ec

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EmeraldCoastMagazine.com February–March 2014

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flavor

baked

goodness Sweet Treats To Share With Your Valentine

By Susan Benton

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Photos By Scott Holstein (Bon Appetit) and Howard Robinson (Oh Snap!)

l

ove is in the air, and thanks to a new class of artisan bakeries on the Emerald Coast, so is the smell of their hot and steamy delicious treats.

Breaking bread together is an intimate experience, one that is savored and affirms a partnership and peace. Bread in all its forms is the most widely consumed food source in the world. It dates back more than 30,000 years when prehistoric man made gruel from water and grains, then found he could fry it on a hot stone and create a solid food source. But how did modern day bread become light and fluffy? Around 300 B.C., the skilled bread makers of ancient Egypt began using commercial yeast Decadent in bread production in a Chocolate Chip process known as leavening. and Peanut Butter Sandwich Without yeast, the bread is Cookies dipped flat, similar to Indian naan, in chocolate Middle Eastern pita and and Red Velvet Cupcakes with Central American tortillas, homemade to name a few. buttercream frosting are fan Despite the fact that the favorites at carbohydrate has become a Oh Snap! four-letter word to some, modern science has uncovered the nutritional benefit of whole grains. More and more consumers prefer the texture and nutty taste of a rustic loaf — and lately, the addition of gluten-free products. As far as dietary needs, whole grain bread is an integral part of a healthy eating plan, is rich in B vitamins, iron, fiber and protein, and will provide sustained energy. When shopping, make certain to avoid breads with enriched wheat or white flour, or unbleached flour, as they are refined. Also look for labels with no more than 3 grams of sugar and at least 3 grams of fiber with no trans fat per serving to get the best benefits.

Emerald Coast bakeries are gaining popularity with handcrafted loaves that area locals and restaurants can’t wait to tear into — including savory

Bon Appetit’s Raspberry Mousse Tarts drizzled with chocolate are the perfect confection to show your affection.

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pastries and spicy cupcakes that have the community licking their lips for more. Just in time for Cupid’s visit we give you four confections and the “secret recipes” to help you achieve sweet success in winning over hearts (and taste buds) on Valentine’s Day.

Oh Snap!

Located in Pensacola, Oh Snap! delights patrons each morning when sharing photos on Facebook of hand-dipped chocolate cookie sandwiches and fresh baked Red Velvet cupcakes — fans’ most popular flavor.

“We start every morning with a blank slate and bake from scratch with no mixes, providing the highest quality cupcakes on the Gulf Coast,” says Erin Stevens, the manager who is a baker, cakemaker and certified pastry chef. “It is tough to do, but we also make delicious vegan, dairy-free and gluten-free cupcakes daily.”

Though wedding cakes, birthday cakes, pull apart cakes and cupcake towers are a big part of their business, special order cupcakes are also available, making for a sweet gift. They are topped with a homemade butter cream and cream cheese frosting made every day from scratch by the in-house frosting maker.

Last year Oh Snap! partnered with a local florist for Valentine’s Day, bundling cupcakes and roses up to a dozen, and Stevens says, “It was wildly successful. We called it Cupcakes For Sweethearts and are planning to do it again!”

shared its delicious pastries and MediterStacey Bakes ranean cuisine with local residents and visiLocated in the Shops of Grayton, Stacey tors. In fact, many restaurants in the area Kidder, the owner of Stacey Bakes, can be source their daily fresh-baked bread here. found whipping up tasty treats, soups, sal“About 90 percent of the recipes are ads and lunch specials on a daily basis. The from my grandfather,” owner Vasken Palanmenu changes daily, and she uses the freshjian confesses. “As we changed equipment est and best organic fruits and vegetables we had to adapt them, but they still taste in her creations, along with Bob’s Red Mill the same.” Palanjian explains that though flour in her baked goods, which are nearly all his family is Armenian and gluten and dairy free. originally from Lebanon, his The sandwich bread, simiClockwise from top: Stacey Bakes grandfather learned pastry lar to multigrain, is made with is a cheery bakery techniques from bakers in a flax, pea and coconut flour. It located in a quaint cottage off of County nearby French colony. is so popular, even those withRoad 283 in Grayton Napoleons, éclairs, crème out intolerances are coming in Beach; The Salted puffs and five types of croissants to buy it, and Kidder often sells Caramel Crème Brûlée is served in a made fresh each morning are out. Though the sandwiches are cup overflowing with just some of the local favorites. successful, so are the luscious sweet goodness; Bon For Valentine’s Day Bon key lime donuts and chocolate Appetit’s Frenchinspired Crème Puffs; Appetit will once again roll out chip cookies.

Triple Dark Chocolate the red carpet with its Chocolate When asked about Valentine’s and Sea Salt Cookies at Crust Artisan Raspberry Tarts, French Day, Kidder blushes, “I am Bakery in Santa Rosa Macaroons, Raspberry Mousse thinking decadent. I am Beach make a sweet Tarts and Chocolate Dipped planning on some sinfully treat for a Valentine’s Day crush.

Strawberries. Délicieux! good things, but definitely the

Bon Appetit French Bakery and Café For nearly 30 years, Bon Appetit French Bakery and Café in Fort Walton Beach has 160 February–March 2014

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Photos By Scott Holstein (Bon Appetit, Stacey Bakes, Karaboo Bakery, Crust Artisan Bakery) and Howard Robinson (Oh Snap!)

flavor

Flourless Chocolate Torte and the Salted Caramel Crème Brulee.”

Thoughtful indeed.

KaraBoo Bakery What started as a bakery at home for professional pastry chef Kara Enache, quickly grew into a successful and award-winning venture. Though husband Boo’s background is in corporate finance, Kara says, “He quickly picked up pastry techniques and has a passion for cooking and baking. He does a lot of research and is a real natural.”

Once the Miramar Beach location was set, Boo joined Kara at KaraBoo Bakery, Special order and together they cupcakes (right) are as pretty as create spectacular they are tasty at Oh wedding, birthday Snap!; Kara Enache, owner of KaraBoo and special event Bakery, with her cakes, cupcakes, deheart-shaped lectable croissants chocolate frosted cakes, the perfect and other pastries, dessert during the savory and sweet. season of love.

Carrying fair-trade coffee, they are the perfect spot for breakfast with a treasured friend or loved one.

They recently decided to showcase Norman Love Chocolates from Fort Myers, Fla., which Kara describes as “works of art.” For Valentine’s Day the duo is planning on a variety of choices for two, such as teacakes, heart-shaped cakes for two and heart-shaped fresh fruit tarts. Don’t mind if we do … two!

Crust Artisan Bakery A true hidden local gem, Crust Artisan Bakery located in Santa Rosa Beach is well

known for its popular hand-tossed brick oven pizzas and Italian Specialty Nights.

This is when owner Mark Fressell shares his grandmother’s recipes with a packed house of salivating patrons from 6 to 9 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday. Be warned, as owner Kim Fressell says, “We have grown four times busier since last year.”

Apparently, word has gotten out about the eatery, so reservations are a must at dinner along with bringing your own bottle of wine. Many guests enjoy sitting on the deck under the white lights, which Fressell assures “is very romantic.”

French baguettes are sold in the restaurant; specialty breads are sold each Saturday at The Seaside Farmers Market and on Sundays at the 30A Farmers Market in Rosemary Beach.

For your Valentine, Crust will offer specialty croissants of ham and Gruyere, almond or chocolate, coffee cakes, muffins and their special triple dark chocolate and sea salt cookies. Crust’s gluten-free Flourless Dark Chocolate Cake is another winner — so moist, thick and topped with a medley of fresh berries, it pairs superbly with red wine. Cheers! ec

Oh Snap!

707 East Cervantes Street, Pensacola (850) 466-3363, ohsnapcupcakes.com

Bon Appetit French Bakery and Café 420 Mary Ester Cutoff NW, Fort Walton Beach (850) 244-a848 bonappetitfrenchbakery.webs.com

KaraBoo Bakery 10859 Emerald Coast Parkway West, Unit 404 Miramar Beach (850) 532-1750, destinbakery.com

Stacey Bakes 26 Logan Lane, Grayton Beach (850) 213-0969, stacey-cakes.com

Crust Artisan Bakery 4821 US Highway 98 West, Suite 101 Santa Rosa Beach (850) 622-1022, eatmorecrust.com EmeraldCoastMagazine.com February–March 2014

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BEST HIBACHI

18 Hibachi Tables Sushi Bar ~ Private Dining Happy Hour Specials 4–6

Sushi ~ Take Out Authentic Japanese Cuisine

850.351.1006

Located in the Village of Baytowne Wharf ™

2008-Best Italian 2009-Best Pizza 2010-Best Pizza, Best Chef 2011-Best Pizza, Best Italian & Best Chef 2012-Best Italian

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850.650.4688 or 850.650.4689 34745 Emerald Coast Parkway / Destin

dining

The Key The restaurants that appear in this guide are included as a service to readers and not as recommendations of the EC Magazine editorial department, except where noted.

Alys Beach

George’s at Alys Beach American. Seafood, burgers and sandwiches at the perfect beachy-casual spot. Open daily 11 a.m.–3 p.m. and 5–9 p.m. 30 Castle Harbour Dr., 850-641-0017. $$ l d

★ B l d

Blue Mountain Beach

Grecian Gardens Restaurant Mediterranean. Traditional Greek cuisine served in an open-air atmosphere perfect for special occasions or parties. Open daily 11 a.m.–9 p.m. 3375 W. Hwy. 30A, 850-267-3011. $$ l

Best of the Emerald Coast 2013 Winner Breakfast Lunch Dinner Outdoor Dining Live Music

TASTE THE MODERN SIDE OF MEXICAN CUISINE

$ $$

Inexpensive Moderately Expensive $$$ Expensive d

Marie's Bistro & Bar Mediterranean. Enjoy made-to-order seafood, steak, pasta as well as sushi in a casual atmosphere. Dine in, carry out, drive through and catering. Full bar. Serving lunch 11 a.m.–2 p.m., Tues–Fri and dinner at 5 p.m. Tues–Sun. 2260 W. County Highway 30A, 850-278-6856. $$ l d Johnny McTighe’s Irish Pub Irish. A true neighborhood Irish Pub serving authentic Irish fare and the best pizza anywhere. Happy Hour Mon–Fri 4:30–6:30 p.m. Open daily 11 a.m.–2 a.m.

2298 W. County Highway 30A, 850-267-0101. $ B l d Blue Mountain Beach Creamery Ice Cream. Homemade ice cream, sorbet and frozen yogurt treats. Open daily 10 a.m.–10 p.m. Cash only. 2129 S. County Highway 83, 850-278-6849. $$

Destin AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar ★ Seafood. Choose from fresh local seafood, sandwiches, pasta, chicken or specialty dishes like the oysters Eugene or Rockefeller. Open daily 11 a.m.

116 E. Hwy. 98, 850-837-1913. $$ l d Another Broken Egg café ★ Breakfast. Breakfast all day, plus sandwiches, patty melts, specials, soups, salads and desserts. Open daily 7 a.m.–2 p.m. Closed Mondays. (Open Memorial and Labor days.) 979 E. Hwy. 98, Suite F, 850-650-0499. $ B Boathouse Oyster Bar ★ Seafood. Discover Destin’s best-kept secret. Come here for ice cold beer, raw oysters, award-winning gumbo and a great view of the Destin Harbor, and leave with a signature T-shirt from the gift shop. Open daily 11 a.m.–2 a.m.

288 B Harbor Blvd., 850-837-3645. l d Boshamps Seafood & Oyster House ★ Seafood. Located on the beautiful Destin Harbor, this seafood spot will spoil you with spectacular sunsets, sensational Gulf-to-table Southern cuisine (including awardwinning oysters!) and family-friendly service all in a fun, relaxed, casual atmosphere.

Open daily at 11 a.m. 414 Harbor Blvd., Destin, 850-424-7406. $$ l d Callahan’s Restaurant & Deli ★ American. Voted Best Locally Owned Restaurant 2008–2013, Callahan’s serves up great sandwiches, seafood specials and prime rib. Mon–Sat 10 a.m.–10 p.m.

791 Harbor Blvd., 850-837-6328. $ l d Capt. Dave’s on the Gulf Seafood. Enjoy delicious fresh seafood dishes. Open daily 4:30 p.m. 3796 Hwy. 98, 850-837-2627. $ d Ciao Bella Pizza Da Guglielmo Italian. Authentic Italian pizza, pasta, salads and more. Open daily 11 a.m.

29 E. Hwy. 98, Silver Sands, 850-654-3040. $$ l d CRAB ISLAND CANTINA Mexican. Latin-inspired Mexican cuisine in a casual waterfront dining atmosphere offering the best views of Destin Harbor. Mon–Thu 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.– 11 p.m., Sun 11 a.m.–9 p.m. 2 Harbor Blvd., 850-424-7417. $$ l d The Crab Trap Seafood. Offering fresh seafood, steaks, salads and soups beachside. Mon–Thu 11 a.m.–9 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–10 p.m. 3500 E. Hwy. 98, 850-654-2722. $$ l d

Sip the finest margarita Taste guacamole made fresh at your table Savor fresh seafood and steaks with authentic sauces

GRAND BOULEVARD

Sandestin 850.654.5649 cantinalaredo.com JOIN US FOR VALENTINE’S DAY EmeraldCoastMagazine.com February–March 2014

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dining Crust Pizzeria Italian. New York-style brick oven pizza. Ask about our specials. Mon–Thu 7a.m.–9 p.m., Fri–Sat 7 a.m.–10 p.m., Sun 7 a.m.–2 p.m. 104 Harbor Blvd., 850-460-2288. $ B l d Destin Ice Seafood Market & Deli ★ Gourmet Takeout. Everything you need for a fresh and delicious meal. Choose from fresh fish and seafood items, pastas, salads and side dishes, Buckhead meats, decadent deserts and an assortment of wines, cheeses, spices and more.

Open daily 8 a.m.–7 p.m. 663 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-837-8333. $$ l d

“COME WATCH THE BAYFRONT SUNSET WITH US”

Dewey Destin’s HarborSide ★ Seafood. One of Destin’s most popular restaurants serves up charm and award-winning seafood in a quaint house overlooking the scenic Destin Harbor. Open daily 11 a.m.–8 p.m. 202 Harbor Blvd., 850-837-7525. $$$ l

d

Dewey Destin Seafood Restaurant & Market ★ Seafood. True local charm in an outdoor setting and some of the freshest seafood around. Open 11 a.m.–8 p.m. 9 Calhoun Ave., 850-837-7575. $$ B l d Donut Hole Bakery Cafe American. Head to the Donut Hole for an out-of-this-world breakfast or savory lunch — don’t forget the cinnamon raisin bread. Open 24 hours. 635 E. Hwy. 98, 850-837-8824. $ B l Graffiti Italian. Traditional Italian favorites and house specialties like seafood pizza.

Sun–Thu 5–9 p.m., Fri–Sat 5–10 p.m. 707 E. Hwy. 98, 850-654-2764. $$ d

111 Cannery Lane, Sandestin (In Baytowne Wharf)

Hours 11am–10pm Lunch • Dinner • Late Night Happy Hour Daily 3:45-7pm

850.424.5177 agaveazulmexicancuisine.com

Harbor Docks ★ American. A local’s favorite, this family owned and operated surf-and-turf restaurant overlooking the Destin Harbor offers breakfast, lunch and dinner and the best sushi on the Emerald Coast. Open daily 5 a.m.–11 p.m. 538 E. Hwy. 98, 850-837-2506. $$ B l d Hard Rock Café American. Rock ’n’ roll, great drinks and mouthwatering menu. Open daily 11 a.m. 4260 Legendary Dr., Destin Commons, 850-654-3310. $ l d HARRY T’S ★ Seafood. Lounge on the beautiful patio and watch the passing boats as you enjoy an endless variety of delicious dishes. Mon–Thu 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.– 11 p.m., Sun 10 a.m.–10 p.m. 46 Harbor Blvd., 850-654-4800. $$ B l d ISLAND WING COMPANY American. Get baked at this fryer free sports pub. Wings, gourmet burgers, fish taco’s, salads, sandwiches and the like. Try any of the 50 beers on tap while watching your fav sports teams on 28 TVs, all in a fun, relaxing atmosphere.

Open daily 11 a.m.–midnight. 98 Palm Center, 981 Highway 98 E., Unit 13, 850-837-2999. $ l d Jasmine Thai ★ Thai. Authentic Thai cuisine that is a combination of traditional and modern.

Enjoy a variety of Thai dishes with different levels of spiciness made to your liking. Reservations are recommended. Tues–Sun lunch 11 a.m.–3 p.m., dinner 5–9 p.m. 4424 Commons Drive E., 850-269-0185. $$ l d Jim ’N Nick’s Bar-B-Q ★ Barbecue. Southern smokehouse barbecue. Beer and wine. Open daily 11 a.m. 14073 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-351-1991. $ l d

BEST WINGS

Johnny O’Quigley’s ★ American. Award-winning steak, seafood and barbecue in one of Destin’s favorite sports bars. Mon–Thu 11 a.m.–midnight, Fri–Sun 11 a.m.–1 a.m, Double Happy Hour Mon–Fri 3–6 p.m. and 10 p.m.–close. 34940 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-837-1015. $ l d Louisiana Lagniappe Cajun and Seafood. View the Old Pass Lagoon while dining on steaks and a wide variety of fresh seafood. Open daily 5–10 p.m. 775 Gulf Shores Dr., 850-837-0881. $$ d Marina Café American. Gourmet pizzas, Creole and American cuisine. Open daily 5–10 p.m.

404 E. Hwy. 98, 850-837-7960. $$ d Mimmo’s Ristorante Italiano Italian. Mimmo’s is the new hot spot in Destin for authentic Italian dishes bursting with flavor and color. Enjoy happy hour at the full bar serving authentic Italian cocktails. Catering available. Open Mon-Fri 11 a.m–10 p.m., Sat & Sun 5–10 p.m. 979 Highway 98, Suite 5, 850-225-2101. $$ l d Osaka ★ Japanese. Known for its sushi but serves a variety of dishes, including

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chicken, steak and seafood. Lunch 11 a.m.–2:30 p.m., Dinner 5–10:30 p.m.

34845 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-650-4688 or 850-650-4689. $$ l d Pepito’s ★ Mexican. Voted Best Mexican on the Emerald Coast, locals love Pepito’s for its authentic Mexican cuisine and mouthwatering margaritas. Happy Hour specials all day Mondays, including small rocks margaritas and all beer and well drinks for $1.99.

Open daily 11 a.m.–10 p.m. 757 E. Hwy. 98, 850-650-7734. $$ l d Poppy’s Crazy Lobster Seafood. Relax with us on the beautiful Destin Harbor, and enjoy the best seafood in town. Toast the setting sun with a Crazy Lobster Cooler or any number of fun cocktails. Open daily at 11 a.m. HarborWalk Village, 850-424-6744. $$ l d Ruth’s Chris Steak House ★ Steak and Seafood. New Orleans-inspired appetizers, desserts and awardwinning wines. Mon–Sat 5:30–10 p.m., Sun 5:30–9 p.m. Silver Shells Resort.

1500 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-337-5108. $$$ d Sarah k’s gourmet ★ Gourmet Takeout. Chef-crafted, ready-to-heat cuisine. Jumbo lump crab cakes and fresh chicken salad are the house specialties. Open at 11 a.m.

34940 Hwy. 98, 850-269-0044. $ l d Tuscany Italian Bistro Italian. Northern Italian cuisine featuring choice meats, fresh seafood and garden vegetables. Tues–Sun 4 p.m.–close. 36178 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-650-2451. $$ d

Fort Walton Beach

Aegean Restaurant ★ Greek. Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean at this authentic Greek restaurant.

Mon–Sat 10:30 a.m.–8:30 p.m. 1259 Eglin Pkwy., Shalimar, 850-613-6120. $$ l d

Benjarong Thai Cuisine & BBQ Thai and Barbecue. Barbecue, chicken, ribs, steak and spicy Thai food. Lunch and dinner Mon–Sat 11 a.m.–9 p.m. 251 Mary Esther Blvd., 850-362-0290. $$ l d Ali's Bistro American. Seafood, steak, pasta, chicken, veal, sandwiches and salads in a casually cool modern space. Tue–Sun 11 a.m.–9 p.m. 171 Brooks St., 850-226-4708. $$ l d The Black Pearl Steak and Seafood. Dig into some coconut shrimp and a juicy steak while enjoying a lovely view of the Gulf. Located in The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island. Open daily 4 p.m. 1450 Miracle Strip Pkwy., 850-833-3016. $$ d Buffalo’s Reef Famous Wings ★ American. This restaurant is famous for hot wings and cold beer. Ask about the daily specials. Tue–Sat open at 10:30 a.m., Sun open at noon. 116 Eglin Pkwy., 850243-9463. $ l d Clemenza’s Uptown ★ Italian. This family owned restaurant features authentic Italian cuisine, a full bar and Mama Clemenza’s famous European Breakfast. Breakfast: Sat 8 a.m.–noon, Sun 8 a.m.–1 p.m. Lunch: Mon–Fri 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Dinner: Mon–Fri 5­–9 p.m., Sat 5–9:30 p.m. Closed Sun. 75 Eglin Pkwy., 850-243-0707. $$ B l d Helen Back Pizza. The world’s finest hand-tossed pizza and cold beer in a sports bar atmosphere. Locations in Pensacola, Navarre, Crestview and Valparaiso.

Open daily 11 a.m.–4 a.m. 114 Amberjack Dr., 850-796-1451. $ l d High Tide Seafood. Delicious seafood dishes, award-winning gumbo and fresh Apalachicola oysters served for lunch and dinner. Mon–Sat 11 a.m.–9:30 p.m.

1203 Miracle Strip Pkwy., 850-244-2624. $ Magnolia Grill Steak, Seafood and Italian. Steak, seafood, pasta, soups, salads and desserts.

Lunch Mon–Fri 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Dinner Mon–Sat, open at 5 p.m. Closed Sun. 157 SE Brooks St., 850-302-0266. $$ l d Old Bay Steamer Seafood. Fresh, steamed and grilled seafood served in a lively atmosphere.

Dinner served daily from 4 p.m. No reservations. 102 Santa Rosa Blvd., 850-664-2795. $$$ d Pandora’s Steak and Seafood. Early evening specials weekdays 5–6 p.m. Happy Hour weekdays 5–7 p.m. Weekdays 5–10 p.m. Weekends 5–11 p.m., 1226 Santa Rosa Blvd., 850-244-8669. $$$ d EmeraldCoastMagazine.com February–March 2014

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or pan-seared grouper from the open kitchen.

Open 6 p.m. daily. 80 E. Hwy. 30A, Grayton Beach, 850-231-9167. $$ d

Pranzo Italian Ristorante Italian. The Montalto family has been serving classic and contemporary Italian cuisine in Fort Walton Beach for nearly 30 years. Dinner Mon–Sat, 5 p.m. 1222 Santa Rosa Blvd., 850-244-9955. $ d

Miramar Beach

Sealand Steak and Seafood. Serving American cuisine as well as Thai offerings in a homey atmosphere. Lunch Sun 11 a.m. until. Dinner Tues–Sat from 4:30 p.m.

47 SE Miracle Strip Pkwy., 850-244-0044. $$$ B d

Grayton Beach

Another Broken Egg café ★ Breakfast. Breakfast all day, plus sandwiches, patty melts, specials, soups, salads and desserts.

Open 7:30 a.m.–2 p.m. Closed Mondays. (Open Memorial and Labor days.) 51 Grayton Uptown Cir., 850-231-7835. $ B Pandora’s Steak and Seafood. Warm, traditional steakhouse with early evening specials. Weekdays 5–10 p.m. Weekends 5–11 p.m. 63 DeFuniak St., 850-231-4102. $$ d Picolo’s restaurant Seafood. Dine on delicious fresh seafood while listening to live music. Open daily 11 a.m.–3 p.m. and 5–10 p.m. 70 Hotz Ave., 850-231-1008. $$ l d Red Bar ★ American. A favorite among locals, visitors and celebrities and a must-visit when in Grayton Beach.

Kick back on the funky furniture and listen to live music while enjoying great food and cocktails — especially the award-winning Bloody Mary. Breakfast 7–10:30 a.m., Lunch 11 a.m.–3 p.m., Dinner 5–10 p.m.

Bar open 11 a.m.–11 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–midnight.

Cash or check only, no credit cards. 70 Hotz Ave., 850-231-1008. $$ B l d Trattoria Borago Italian. Enjoy a balsamic-laced pork tenderloin

Aegean Restaurant ★ Greek. Sip an ouzo at the beautiful stone bar before savoring the flavors of the Mediterranean at this authentic Greek restaurant. Breakfast 8–11 a.m., Lunch 11 a.m.–4 p.m., Dinner 4–9 p.m. 11225 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-460-2728. $$ B l d Agave Azul Mexican Cuisine Mexican. We are bringing the real taste of Mexico to The Village of Baytowne Wharf in Sandestin.

Come join us for Happy Hour from 3:45–7 p.m. and enjoy the sunset on the back deck. Let us show you what Mexico is all about. Open daily 11 a.m.–2 a.m.

111 Cannery Lane, The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin, 850-424-5177. $$ l d Another Broken Egg Café ★ Breakfast. Award-winning breakfast all day, plus sandwiches, patty melts, specials, soups, salads and desserts. Open daily from 7 a.m.–3 p.m. Two Sandestin locations: On the Bay (next to the LeCiel at Sandestin) and in The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin, 850-622-2050. $ B (in the Village) Bistro Bijoux ★ Steak and Seafood. Coastal cuisine with a New Orleans flair. Fresh seafood daily. Featuring our signature dish — “Black Skillet” filet mignon topped with a tempura-fried lobster tail. Open daily 5–10 p.m. Village of Baytowne Wharf, 850-622-0760. $$$ d Cabana Café American. A casual poolside restaurant serving made-to-order salads, savory soups and chowders, deli-style sandwiches (with homemade bread!), savory build-your-own burgers and quesadillas, stone-fired pizza, pasta and more. Sunday brunch. Full bar. Open 11 a.m.–2 a.m. Mon–Sat and Sundays from 9 a.m.–2 a.m. Happy Hour 11 a.m.–7 p.m. Karaoke and live entertainment. Located on the ground floor of Ariel Dunes in Seascape Resort, 112 Seascape Drive. Come see us in our new location inside

a taste for ...

Hurricane Lanes in Destin. Ask about the locals discount. 850-424-3574. $$ l d Cantina Laredo ★ Mexican. Boasting a contemporary décor and fiery flavor, the new addition to Grand Boulevard offers gourmet twists on Mexican favorites. Save room for dessert, and check out the Sunday brunch. Sun–Thu 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–11 p.m. 585 Grand Blvd., 850-654-5649. $$ B l d Carrabba’s italian grill Italian. Flavorful dishes, including calamari, chicken Marsala, fresh fish, seafood and grilled steaks. Open Sun 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Mon–Thu 4–10:30 p.m., Fri–Sat 4–11:30 p.m. 10562 W. Hwy. 98, 850-837-1140. $$ d Fat Clemenza’s ★ Italian. Feel like part of the family as you enjoy homemade classical Italian cuisine. Lunch Mon–Fri 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Dinner Mon–Wed 5–9:30 p.m., Thu– Sat 5–10 p.m. Holiday Plaza/Hwy. 98, 850-650-5980. $$ l d Elephant Walk American. Enjoy attentive service, excellent continental cuisine, a dynamic wine list and panoramic views of the Gulf. Serving lunch seasonally and dinner daily 5–10 p.m. Beachside at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. W., 850-267-4800. $$$ l d Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar ★ Steak and More. This award-winning restaurant offers prime steaks, chops, chicken, seafood, fresh salads and a variety of unique sides and desserts served in a comfortable but elegant atmosphere. Featuring 100 wines by the glass.

Open Mon–Thu 5–10 p.m., Fri–Sat 5–11 p.m., Sun 4–9 p.m. 600 Grand Blvd., 850-269-0830. $$ d John Wehner’s Village Door Bayfront Restaurant & Nightclub ★ American. Rock your evening with dinner and dancing on the best dance floor on the Emerald Coast. Open daily for dinner 5-9 p.m. The Village of Baytowne Wharf, 126 Fisherman’s Cove. The Village of Baytowne Wharf, 126 Fisherman’s Cove. 850-502-4590. $ d

Yogurt! Going Greek What are the goods behind “the food of the gods”?

The rich, creamy texture of yogurt has enticed mankind since the Roman Empire. In those days, when mixed with honey, the dish was even referred to as the “food of the gods.”

In modern times, this dairy by-product’s delicious draw has been strengthened by the advent of strained (or as we refer to it in North America, Greek) yogurt. Today, Greek yogurt is everywhere, but just because this Mediterranean treat’s gone corporate doesn’t mean it isn’t still chock full of the protein that won the hearts of foodies worldwide.

In its natural state, strained yogurt is equipped with roughly double the protein of regular yogurt, plus it has less carbs, less sugar and its mild flavor makes it the perfect substitute in any creamy creation.

“You can use it in place of sour cream,” explained Susan Benton, food writer and owner of 30Aeats.com. “I love to have tzatziki with Indian and Greek food, especially gyros.

It’s so delicious just to add some cucumber and a few spices to the Greek yogurt. You can even throw some feta in […] and have a great dip.” — Chay D. Baxley

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Lin’s Asian Cuisine Asian. Chef Qun Lin whips up steaming portions of your favorite Chinese and Southeast Asian dishes. Open Mon–Thu 10:30 a.m.–9 p.m., Fri–Sat 10:30 a.m.– 9:30 p.m., Sun noon–9 p.m. 130 Scenic Gulf Dr., Suite 5B, 850-424-5888. $ l d Marina Bar and Grill American. Seafood, po-boys, burgers, salads overlooking the Baytowne Marina and Choctawhatchee Bay. You catch ’em we cook ’em service.

Open daily 11 a.m.–7 p.m., Breakfast Sat–Sun 8–11 a.m. Kitchen closed Mon–Tue. Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. W., 850-267-7778. $ B l d Marlin Grill ★ Steak and Seafood. Fresh seafood, steaks, salads and appetizers served inside or outside. Open nightly at 5 p.m. Village of Baytowne Wharf, 850-351-1990. $$$ l d Mitchell’s Fish Market Seafood. Chef-driven dishes such as Cedar Roasted Atlantic Salmon or Hoisin-Glazed Yellow Fin Tuna. Lunch Mon–Sat 11 a.m.–4 p.m., Sun 11 a.m.– 3 p.m., Dinner Mon–Thu 4–10 p.m., Fri–Sat 4–11 p.m., Sun 3–9 p.m. Grand Boulevard Sandestin, 850-650-2484. $$ l d

Santa Rosa Beach

98 Bar-B-Que Barbecue. Four generations have perfected Southern barbecue served with your favorite sides. Lunch and dinner, 11 a.m.–8 p.m. Mon–Sat. 5008 W. Hwy. 98., 850-622-0679. $ l d Basmati’s Asian Cuisine & Sushi Asian. Asian dishes and full sushi bar. Open 4 p.m. daily. 3295 W. Hwy. 30A, 850-267-3028. $$ d Café Tango American. Seafood, poultry and pasta served with specialty sauces.Homemade desserts. Open Tue–Sun 5–10 p.m. 14 Vicki St., 850-267-0054. $$$ d Fish Out of Water Restaurant Continental. Southern coastal cuisine with an Asian flair: tuna, crab cakes, shrimp and scallops. 5:30–10 p.m. daily. Located in the WaterColor Inn, 850-534-5050. $$$ d

P.F. Chang’s China Bistro ★ Asian. Sample crunchy lettuce wraps or Chinese favorites like Kung Pao Chicken in a chic atmosphere. Open Sun–Thu 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–11 p.m. 10640 Grand Blvd., 850-269-1806. $$ l d Pepito’s ★ Mexican. Voted Best Mexican on the Emerald Coast. Authentic Mexican cuisine, delicious margaritas and weekly specials. Open daily 11 a.m.–10 p.m.

11225 Hwy 98, 850-269-7788. $$ l d Poppy’s Seafood Factory Seafood. Enjoy fresh seafood, steak and poultry dishes with a view of the bay.

Open 11 a.m.–9 p.m. daily. Village of Baytowne Wharf, 850-351-1996. $$$ l d

W H AT I S TH E CU R R E N T H E ALTH O F

YOUR FINANCES?

Royal Orchid Thai. Escape to Thailand at this authentic Thai restaurant. Sink into a traditional sunken table surrounded by pillows or dine American style at a table or booth. Thu–Tue 11 a.m.–9:30 p.m. Closed Wed. 11275 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-650-2555. $$ l d Rum Runners American. Caribbean/coastal/Mediterranean menu with sandwiches, seafood, steaks, chicken and pasta. Open daily for lunch and dinner.

Village of Baytowne Wharf, 850-267-8117. $$ l d Seagar’s Prime Steaks and Seafood ★ Steak and Seafood. Premium steak, fresh seafood and caviar. Open 6 p.m. daily. Hilton Sandestin. 4000 S. Sandestin Blvd., 850-622-1500. $$$ d Tommy Bahama’s Restaurant & Bar ★ Caribbean. Get a taste of the islands with jerk spices, fresh fish and the best desserts on the coast as voted by readers of Emerald Coast Magazine.

Open Sun–Thu 11 a.m.–11 p.m. Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–midnight. 525 Grand Blvd., 850-654-1743. $$ l d Vin’Tij Wine Boutique & Bistro American. Traditional favorites and unique house dishes. Open daily 11 a.m.– midnight. 10859 W. Emerald Coast Pkwy., Suite 103, 850-650-9820. $ l d

Niceville/Valparaiso

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Compass Rose Restaurant and Bar Caribbean. Waterfront dining overlooking Tom’s Bayou. The cuisine is coastal with a Caribbean-West Indies flair. Enjoy Happy Hour, daily specials and Sunday brunch. Tue–Thur 11 a.m.–9 p.m.,Fri 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Sat 4–10 p.m., Sun 10 a.m.–3 p.m. 303 Glen Ave., 850-389-2125. $$ l d One 20 A Modern Bistro ★ American. Modern American cuisine specializing in seafood, steaks and local fresh produce. Lunch Tue–Fri 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Dinner Tue–Sat 5–9 p.m., Brunch Sun 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Closed Monday. 120 Partin Drive North, Niceville, 850-729-2120. $$ B l d Pepitos ★ Mexican. Locals love the authentic Mexican cuisine, margaritas and all-day Monday Happy Hour special. Open daily 11 a.m.–10 p.m. 4585 E Hwy 20, Suite 100, Niceville, 850-279-4949. $$ l d TradeWinds Italian. A cozy favorite among locals serving heaping portions from old family recipes. Enjoy a number of pasta variations as well as seafood, chicken, veal, steak and thin crust pizza. Expansive wine and beer list. Reservations required. Open Tue–Sat 5 p.m. 205 Government St., 850-678-8299. $$ d EmeraldCoastMagazine.com February–March 2014

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dining Louis Louis American. The only thing that isn’t over the top at Louis Louis is the menu pricing. The Moulin Rouge-inspired interior décor is outrageously wonderful. Dine outside or in. The menu has six tasty items, including crab cakes, panned chicken, blackened fish and a few pastas. Mon–Sun 5–10 p.m. 35 Mussett Bayou Rd., 850-267-1500. $ d The Marigny Creole. Enjoy authentic New Orleans-style cooking inside at linen covered tables or poolside on the covered patio lounge. Serving lunch and dinner daily 11 a.m.– 9 p.m. Enjoy the bar until midnight. 306 Bald Eagle Drive, 850-622-9101. $ l d VKI Japanese Steak House & Sushi Bar Asian. Using the freshest ingredients this Japanese gem serves up tasty Hibachi-style stir-fry meals of steak, seafood and chicken prepared at your table as well as artfully prepared sashimi and sushi rolls. Open daily. Lunch 11 a.m.–3 p.m., Dinner 4:30–9:30 p.m. 4552 Highway 98, Santa Rosa Beach, 850-267-2555. $$ l d Vue on 30a American. Seafood, beef, poultry, lamb, veal, pastas, soups and bisques. Open Tues–Fri 11 a.m.–2:30 p.m., Wed–Sat 5–9 p.m. 4801 W. Hwy. 30A, 850-267-2305. $$ l d

Seaside & Seagrove Beach

723 Whiskey Bravo American. Steak, seafood and casual “beachy” bites. Relax on the rooftop bar with Gulf view. Open daily from 11 a.m. Brunch on Sundays. 3031 Scenic Highway 30A, 850-213-0015. $$ l d Angelina’s Pizza & Pasta Italian. Authentic homemade pizza pie and Italian dishes in a casual atmosphere. Lunch and dinner daily: 11 a.m.–9:30 p.m. 4005 E. Hwy. 30A, 850-231-2500. $ l d Bud & Alley’s Restaurant American. Serving fresh seafood, steak and vegetarian options. Open 11:30 a.m. Mon–Fri. Roof bar open 11:30 p.m.–2 a.m. in summer. 2236 E. Hwy. 30A, 850-231-5900. $$$ l d Café Thirty-A Seafood. Seafood, lamb, duck, filet mignon and pizza. Open daily 5 p.m.

3899 E. Hwy. 30A, 850-231-2166. $$ d Crush American. Crush features an extensive wine menu, sushi and small plates.

Open daily for lunch and dinner, noon–10 p.m. 25 Central Sq., 850-4680703. $$ l d Great SOuthern Café Southern. Jim Shirley serves up Southern comfort food with a twist. Open daily for breakfast 8–11 a.m., lunch 11 a.m.–4 p.m., dinner 4–11:30 p.m. 83 Central Sq., 850-231-7327. $$ B l d La Botana Tapas. Small plates of Latin-inspired cuisine served in a casual but elegant atmosphere. Wine bar. Lunch and dinner Mon–Fri 4–11 p.m., Sat–Sun 11 a.m.–11 p.m. 4281 E. Hwy. 30A, 850-231-0716. $$ l d La Cocina Mexican Grill & Bar Mexican. Traditional Tex-Mex with a coastal twist. Open daily 11 a.m.–3 p.m. and 5–9 p.m. Bar open until 10 p.m. 10343 E. Hwy. 30A, 850-231-4021. $$ l d Old Florida Fish House and Bar Seafood. Rustic seafood restaurant featuring a new take on old seafood favorites. Full bar. Dinner daily 5 p.m. 5235 Hwy. 30A, 850-534-3045. $$ d V Seagrove Restaurant Seafood. Chef David Cunningham serves up fresh seafood and produce that is locally sourced in a resort casual atmosphere. Open Tue–Sat at 6 p.m. Closed Sundays. 2743 E. County Highway 30A, Seagrove, 850-4680973. $$$ d Seagrove Village Market Café Steak and Seafood. Enjoy surf-and-turf and a glass of wine, then shop for gifts and souvenirs in the adjacent gift shop. Open 10:30 a.m.–8:30 p.m. daily. 3004 S. County Rd. 395, 850-231-5736. $$ l d ec 168 February–March 2014

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

on the menu

It didn’t take us long to fish out great local seafood, a cool lunch spot for chicks and a hot must-try Mexican place!

Take Out Chicken Salad Chick, Destin

Photo By Scott Holstein

Why did the chicken cross the road? To eat lunch at Chicken Salad Chick! This cheery new eatery features 15 different chicken salad concoctions. We could not decide, so we ordered the Chick Trio platter to go and sampled Jalapeno Holly (the name says it all!), Fancy Nancy (featuring Fuji apples, pecans and seedless grapes) and Jazzy Julie (a spicy mixture of cayenne pepper, bacon and shredded cheddar cheese) served with wheat crackers and a pickle spear. $8.49

Lunch Burrito del Sol, Fort Walton Beach Burrito del Sol’s slow-cooked Chicken Tacos served Chipotle style

There are few better things side by side on a menu than the two words “coastal” and “Mexican.”

This casual place may be small,

but it serves up big flavor in its “build-your-own” burritos, tacos and salads. We munched on slow-cooked Chicken Tacos served Chipotle style with

red cabbage, pineapple salsa, Monterey Jack cheese and fresh lime. $6.95. (You can also choose steak, shrimp or fish and enjoy them Baja, Southwest or BBQ-style.) Ole!

Dinner Fish Out of Water, Santa Rosa Beach

Though named Fish Out of Water, the engaging and friendly servers ensure you won’t feel like one at this elegant, beachfront WaterColor Inn restaurant that puts seafood center stage on the menu. We savored Chef Lawrence Klang’s fresh Grouper, which came topped with a bright Sunchoke Artichoke Ragout. Delish. $34

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the last word

Grounding Each Other Inspiration, Friendships and Extended Networks Offered for and by Women

a

By Martha J. LaGuardia-Kotite

fter living on the islands of Key West, in Bainbridge and also Manhattan, I returned to my home turf in 2007. Coming back to the Emerald Coast made for a bit of a pace change and reality check from the hustle and excitement of living in the Northeast.

What I missed most were the friendships I had cultivated over eight years living in Manhattan — a diverse group of women of all ages and backgrounds. Looking to nurture a similar variety of friends, it seemed to me that many connections on the Emerald Coast were exclusively tied to a social association with a church or neighborhood; a sport or women’s club; or even from having grown up together. Rarely, it seemed to me, did these circles intertwine.

This observation, coupled with the completion of my second book about how women achieved the improbable while serving in the U.S. military, reinforced my observations about the limited way women network.

Talking with my friend Natalie Leon, an author and wellness trainer, we decided to start an inclusive women’s group open to all circles, ages and phases of life that would provide insights and support. We called it Groundwire.

In October, we celebrated our three-year anniversary and accomplished our goal.

Women from different walks of life come together quarterly to support and energize each other through networking at the Sunset Beach Clubhouse in Niceville. Each meeting includes new women. We talk, exchange ideas or make requests.

The group is international. I have met women from Poland, Italy, Germany, Ireland

170 February–March 2014

and Great Britain. It is also diverse. I’ve been delighted to have grandmothers and widows, retirees and doctors, mothers and nurses, engineers and domestic engineers, businesswomen, aspiring business women, leadership coaches, veterans and realtors — not to mention a stockbroker, journalist, chiropractor and naturopath — actively involved.

I’ve particularly enjoyed how we’ve helped each other achieve real progress.

Aggie Sellers grew up in Poland, learned from her father the art of baking cakes and plans to open a bakery in Niceville called Sweet Choice Bakery. We’ve supported her dream by hiring her to bake for our celebrations and birthday parties and passing on her business card.

Sellers’ Italian friend, Luisa Patterson, also asked us to help. Patterson has an autistic child, and she encouraged attendees to support a fun run to benefit the Emerald Coast Autism Center in Niceville. Janice Busovne, a first-time attendee and Los Angeles automotive industry representative who became a real estate agent 15 years ago, eagerly agreed. Running her first 5K with her daughter, Julia, in support of Luisa’s request, Busovne said to me, “This fulfilled a personal goal of mine. I wasn’t just running for me, I was running for her.”

I’ve also learned about the depth of homelessness in our community after meeting Molly Wong. She works with the Okaloosa/ Walton Homeless Continuum of Care — Opportunity Inc. in Fort Walton Beach.

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

Wong has shined a light on this local issue for us — an audience typically cloistered from this dark reality. We learned that there are homeless pregnant women and veterans in our county — adding children and men, there are more than 2,700 people without adequate shelter.

Kate Thomas recently moved here from Great Britain where she was working at a pharmaceutical company conducting clinical trials for cancer drugs. Here, she decided to become a full time “mum” and is pursuing her apprenticeship in glasswork. She expressed a need to find an electrician to help hook up the kiln in her garage so she could fuse glass into art. Groundwire provided the connection and grounding.

The women in Groundwire have inspired me to reflect upon my own life and make a change after asking myself what was it that I always wanted to do? I always wanted to pursue a graduate degree and become a journalist. The group motivated me to take action.

Now, I’ve nearly completed my master’s degree in journalism, am taking classes online from Harvard University and have completed an editorial internship with EC Magazine.

Groundwire has been rewarding and life changing in ways I would not have envisioned possible or probable a short time ago.

I am proud to have cultivated a network that is growing and changing. These women have been a ground wire for me.

Find out more about Groundwire on Facebook. ec

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