Scarlett | May+June 2022

May+June 2022

Weddings We Definitely Do!

The latest in women’s fashion, beauty, home decor, lifestyle, and health.

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What’s Inside Features 19

WEDDINGS Fashion

Lifestyle

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Like what you see? Here’s how to match our style.

Try out our recipe for Biscuit Strawberry Shortcake!

Get the Look

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Health 55

Let’s Get Physical

Who says you can’t have a little fun while getting fit — see what the buzz is about with Pole Fitness.

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Body Talk

Let’s talk about “that time of the month.” You have lots of options when it comes to dealing with your period ... here are a few.

Home Decor 101

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Tour of Homes Pensacola

So you just purchased the perfect house ... now what? Jessica Duncan talks home ownership — everything you need to know from inspections to remodels.

Sweet Tooth

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Heroines

Raise a glass to some amazing women in our community.

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A Few Good Men

Leaders, mentors, partners, gentlemen ... a few good men.

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Happy Hour

Champagne has always been a favorite go-to for important events and milestones. And popping that Champagne brings the celebrating to a whole new level!

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Anything He Can Do...

Mary Averill, aka “Minister Mary,” has been officiating weddings for seven years. When she started, women officiants were all but unheard of, but her vibrance and joy when performing weddings has a way of bringing a wonderful uniqueness to her couples’ “Big Day.”

106 Weddings The Big Day

Four couples share their stories and gorgeous photos from their big day.

Welcome Home

Ever wish you could have your own supply of fresh herbs to cook with? Plant an herb garden this summer!

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May + June 2022

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96

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Functioning as a no-cost, mobile pop-up boutique providing assistance to communities, Save The Closet’s mission statement boils down to three words: “Donations with Dignity.”

Read any good books lately? Here are our picks to get you started.

Before diving in, turn up this specially curated playlist inspired by this issue.

Be the Change

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Cover to Cover

Listen Up!

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| There’s Something About Mary

The Big Day

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is the season, wedding season that is. The nuptial festivities are in full swing here on the Gulf Coast. From bachelorette parties to bridal showers, our incredible community is home to some of the most beautiful weddings of the year.

There is something special about weddings that we just can’t get enough of. We are so excited to share a few of our favorites of the year with you in the Wedding issue of Scarlett.

This year, one of my besties is getting married, and our group of friends recently went to get the “first look” of her wedding dress. It was such a special moment we got to share as friends. Your own wedding day is exciting, but there is just something so special about getting to be a part of your friend’s “Big Day.” When she came out, we all had a tear in our eye because she was so incredibly beautiful. I mean the dress was LITERALLY made for her. It made me look forward to all the events ahead of us to celebrate the love between my friend and her soon-to-be husband.

My wedding anniversary is May 20th so I love that our Wedding issue falls during this time. I get to reminisce about my wedding day as we pull together this issue. Although my wedding was small and intimate, it was one of the best days of my life. In this issue, we are happy to celebrate all of the couples that allowed us to share their stories.

Dont forget to go social and follow us on Instagram: @scarlett.magazine and “Like” us on Facebook: Scarlett Magazine. We love to continue to bring you the latest in women’s fashion, beauty, home decor, lifestyle, and health because frankly, we know you give a damn!

Mary Aho Editor

photography by: Shanna Magnuson www.ScarlettMag.com

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On the Cover May+June 2022

Weddings We Definitely Do!

e decor, lifestyle, and health.

The latest in women’s fashion, beauty, home decor, lifestyle, and health.

Vision in White Our cover girl, Celeste Moore, is an absolute vision in white. This issue is all about our beautiful brides and their big day when they said “I do.’’ In this issue of Scarlett we are highlighting four happy couples on their wedding day. We kick off the nuptial tales with Celeste & Brent. Read their story along with three other adoring couples in the Wedding issue of Scarlett.

photography by: Cedar Relics bride: Celestine Moore

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Who is Scarlett?

The Team

Steve Barber

Publisher steve@scarlettmag.com

Sheila MacDiarmid Graphic Designer

Mary Aho

Editor mary@scarlettmag.com

Kristin Frazier Copy Editor

Jessica Graña Creative Director

Shanna Magnuson Lead Photographer

www.ScarlettMag.com

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Contributors Here they are ... our amazing team of contributors. Smart, talented, opinionated.

The strength of this group is incredible. Scarlett is possible because of their wisdom, vision, perspective, and passion for their work because frankly, we know you give a damn.

We are proud to surround ourselves with this incredible talent:

Steve Barber, Publisher Mary Aho, Editor Jessica Graña, Creative Director Kristin Frazier, Copy Editor Sheila MacDiarmid, Graphic Designer Shanna Magnuson, Lead Photographer Kristina Wright, Photographer

.

Harrison Barber, Distribution Emily Brink, Writer Jessica Duncan, Writer Courtney Murray, Writer Liesel Schmidt, Writer

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written by: Emily Brink / photography by: Cedar Relics

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hen Walton High School needed a new coach, Mr. Moore and his family moved to town to take the job. The coach’s son, Brent, quickly became best friends with his classmate, Koleman, hanging out almost every day. One day, Brent was at Koleman’s house waiting for him when Koleman’s sister walked out of her room. The rest, as they say, is history!

Over the years, Brent Moore and Celestine Truett fell madly in love. After four years of official dating, Brent knew it was time to pop the question. He took Celestine around the town to spots where they had made special memories during their time together. Their tour ended at Eden Gardens State Park where they had taken their very first photo, long before they were even dating. Brent got down on one knee in front of a big beautiful oak tree. Their close friends and family were there to witness the proposal and celebrate the engagement with the happy couple.

One year and three months later, they sealed the deal on Nov. 13, 2021. They both knew they did not want to be sweating on their wedding day so November just made sense.

The ceremony and reception was held at Camp Retreat in Baker, Florida.

Celestine and Brent wanted a casual elegance theme for their big day, and the barn and 140-acre property made that a reality. They hosted 150 people for their

event, and the venue provided a lovely backdrop to the perfect Southern wedding.

Throughout the planning process, the only thing Brent was adamant about was having hash brown casserole at the reception.

Celestine kept telling him no so they settled on mashed potatoes. It was a humorous surprise when the caterer plopped down a big pan of hash brown casserole in front of Brent when they sat down to eat. The couple opted for a less traditional cake flavor of salted caramel with toffee filling paired with maple bourbon cookies.

Overall, the food was a big YUM! The bridal party consisted of 12 of the couple’s best friends and family members who had really made an impact and been involved in their lives throughout the years. The bridesmaids wore long, rustcolored dresses that contrasted nicely with the green scenery of the property. The groomsmen looked handsome wearing navy tuxes and cute floral bow ties that matched the groom. Celestine looked like an absolute dream. The lacey bodice, full skirt, and long train created an alluring silhouette that complemented Celestine beautifully.

Pinned to the back of her dress was a white brooch that belonged to Celestine’s grandmother who had passed away prior to the wedding. She also had a little charm tied to her bouquet with a picture of her late grandparents so they could be included and remembered that day.

Celestine’s favorite part of the whole day was having a moment alone with Brent immediately after the ceremony. When they exited after walking back up the aisle, they looked at each other and exclaimed,

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“We’re married!!” If you know Celestine, you know she doesn’t do well with uncomfy shoes.

Shortly after taking pictures, Brent reached down and took her shoes off, which Celestine just loved. Brent’s favorite part of the day was being able to have all of their loved ones in the same place and feel the love and support as he and Celestine celebrated the start of their own life together.

Today, Celestine is studying Health Care Administration full time, and Brent works as a Maintenance Technician while also going to school full time. Her advice to anyone planning a wedding is to soak in each and every moment. Their engagement went by so fast and the wedding day even faster. She would relive all of those moments over and over again if she could.

DJ: Gary Gregor, G2 Entertainment Makeup: Emma Lee Pittman, Merle Norman Cosmetics Hair: Haley Bell Florals: Amanda Bierbaum, Soirée Dress: Bridal by Lori - Atlanta, GA Cake + Cookies: Donna Hicks Ben Burton

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| Sweet Tooth

2 cups all-purpose flour 1 tbsp baking powder 3 tbsp sugar ¼ tsp salt ½ cup butter, melted 1 cup buttermilk

7 cups strawberries, quartered ¼ cup + 2 tbsp sugar, divided 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

1 cup heavy whipping cream

1. In a large bowl, combine the cut strawberries and ¼ cup of sugar. Cover and chill in the fridge until ready to use.

2. Preheat the oven to 450 degrees and lightly grease a large cookie sheet.

3. In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.

4. Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in your milk and melted butter. (Allow the butter to cool slightly before adding to the mixture.)

5. Stir together until everything is just moistened.

6. Drop heaping tbsp onto the prepared baking sheet.

7. Bake until the edges are lightly browned, about 10-12 minutes.

8. With a hand mixer or stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, beat the heavy cream, remaining sugar, and vanilla extract on medium high speed until stiff peaks form, 3-5 minutes.

9. Slice the biscuits in half and layer with strawberries and whipped cream.

10. Serve immediately and enjoy.

Serves 12

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| Playlist

weddings

Scan the QR Code to start listening to Scarlett’s curated May + June 2022 issue playlist.

Marry Me Train

It’s All Coming Back to Me Now Céline Dion

Let’s Stay Together Tina Turner

Kiss Me Sixpence None The Richer

I’m Yours Jason Mraz

You Make Loving Fun Fleetwood Mac

Loving You Easy Zac Brown Band

I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing Aerosmith

Everything Michael Bublé

Better Together Jack Johnson

Love You ‘Till the End The Pogues

Can’t Take My

No One Alicia Keys

More Than Words Extreme

Big, Big Plans Chris Lane

Andy Williams

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ot all heroes wear capes, some wear fabulous heels. Being a woman can be a difficult job. We are often expected to be everything to everyone. Work hard to reach your full potential in your career field, but also raise a family in-between.

Make sure you meet all of your deadlines at work but also bake a casserole and join a book club. While it may seem overwhelming to “do it all,” there are a few local women who seem to have it figured out. And, for that, they are my heroes; or should I say heroines. Malala Fund said, “I want every girl to know that her voice can change the world.” This group of women are bravely climbing to the top and making a difference in the lives of those around them.

In these articles, we are raising a glass to some amazing women in our community. As successful businesswomen and entrepreneurs, these women are the examples that we need for our youth. Some are mothers, some are bosses, some are adventurous, some lead quietly from the sidelines, but there is one thing they all have in common — they are heroines. The leaders, the path blazers, the extraordinary women that always go a step above the rest. A heroine is defined as a woman admired or idealized for her courage, outstanding achievements, or noble qualities.

These fearless women are that and more.

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| Heroines

Margaret Ellen Artman Matthews Owner, Margaret Ellen Bridal

written by: Emily Brink photography provided by: Margaret Ellen Bridal

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s a child, we all spend our days dreaming of what we want our life to look like when we grow up. For Margaret “Maggie” Ellen Artman Matthews, while growing up in Greenville, Mississippi, this dream was inspired by the iconic photoshoot scene in The Parent Trap. She loved watching Elizabeth James take one of her daughters to the bridal shop and seeing all of the wedding dresses on display.

It was right then and there she started telling everyone she was going to be a fashion designer. Her mom bought her a sewing machine and started teaching her the basics of sewing. In the end, her mother used the sewing machine more than Maggie, but that was the start of supporting her daughter’s dreams.

Today, Maggie lives in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, and owns a beautiful bridal boutique in Inlet Beach named Margaret Ellen Bridal. She may not design the dresses like her childhood-self thought, but she adores working with their designers to help customize a bride’s dress. Her mother has always valued hard work and education. She made being a working mom look easy! On the other hand, Maggie’s Gran primarily stayed at home as a homemaker.

She taught Maggie by example how to be the best mother possible. These two strong women are Maggie’s greatest female influences, and she is happy to emulate them in her everyday life.

Maggie’s proudest accomplishments are her two children, Deaton and Ella Compton. She is also extremely proud of running a business that gives brides a magical experience while shopping for a wedding gown. Her brides feel loved, celebrated, and beautiful as they find the perfect dress! If she could tell her 20-year-old self anything, it would be to slow down. She wished she would have taken the time to enjoy the things that are happening as they are actually

happening. There is no need to rush your life.

Maggie became the woman she is today from the tools given to her throughout her life by her wonderful parents, Barbara and Paul Artman. Between losing one son and fighting a childhood cancer battle with another son, they certainly had their fair share of heartache and trials.

Throughout all their struggles, Maggie’s parents continued to be leaders in the community. They have always given so much of their time to others and to the things they care about. Her parents taught Maggie to be a strong, committed, woman of faith, and to work hard and love even harder. She wouldn’t be who she is today without them.

Before opening Margaret Ellen Bridal, Maggie was an elementary school teacher. Some of her students are now in college. They were her “first kiddos” before having her own, and she is so proud of them and their successes in life. Previously, Maggie has given back to the community by partnering with the Junior League of the Emerald Coast where a portion of their sales went to the league to help children in the community. Margaret Ellen Bridal also gives back to the community by being a place where women feel confident, valued, and loved. They host Bride Nights where their brides can get girls together and provide a welcoming community for everyone.

• Childhood Dream Job: As a child my dream job was to design wedding dresses, all thanks to Elizabeth James on The Parent Trap!

• Soundtrack to My Life: The soundtrack for my life (and my 7-year-old can tell you and sing along too) would be You’re Going to Miss This. I will blurt out the lyrics any time I am feeling overwhelmed with my kids. It is always such a reminder that these days are short, and I will indeed miss these crazy days.

• Fashion Icons: My fashion icons of the past and present would be Jackie Kennedy and Kate Middleton.

• Currently Reading: I am currently reading Under Construction by Chrishell Stause (love the ladies of Selling Sunset!!)

• Dream Vacation: My dream vacation would be to stay in an over-the-water bungalow somewhere tropical!

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| Heroines

Diane Freeman

Founder, A Bed 4 Me

written by: Emily Brink photography provided by: Diane Freeman

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very single person you meet has something within them that you can learn from. That mindset is how Diane Freeman became the woman she is today. She began looking at the individuals she met through that lens. She would try and implement the qualities she liked and pass on the ones she didn’t, which effectively created the best version of herself at that point. Throughout her decades on this earth, she has accumulated life experiences that have also shaped her into the person she is today.

Each phase of her life provided her with opportunities for growth and wisdom.

Born and raised in Clearwater, Florida, Diane considers herself a Florida girl through and through.

Growing up she had many strong female influences. Diane’s mother was a classic example of hard work, and her grandmother was a classic example of unconditional love.

Diane’s two daughters are also on her list of heroes. She has learned to find value in every woman she meets.

Everyone has a gift you can take with you on your journey. If she could give her 20-year-old self a bit of advice she would say, “Learn more, seek more, question more, try more. Get out of your shell, you are missing stuff.” Life is about living, and Diane truly tries to soak that in.

Today Diane lives in Valparaiso, Florida, and works as the Executive Director of the nonprofit, A Bed 4 Me Foundation. One day she was reading an article about an 18-year-old girl who started a similar nonprofit in a different area and really resonated with the mission.

The girl recognized there was a need to provide beds for children who did

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not have one of their own and tried to fulfill that need.

Diane was inspired and quickly learned that there were children in her own area living with the same need. It seems like such a simple thing, a bed. But without one, without a proper night’s rest, days can be really daunting, especially for a child dealing with other issues. Their team provides beds to children in Okaloosa and Walton counties. They have found children sleeping on floors, couches, pallets, and sharing beds with other people. A bed of their own is a necessity, and no child should have to go without. Each new “bed kit” costs $300 and includes a twin mattress, bed frame, pillow, sheets, and comforter set. As of today, the foundation has provided more than 1,700 beds to children in the community who did not have a place to sleep. Establishing A Bed 4 Me is Diane’s greatest professional achievement, although it wasn’t without the help of many people. It is a very deserving cause, which is something the whole team and anyone who donates to their charity should be proud of. If you are interested in learning more about this worthy cause, visit their website www.ABed4Me.org.

Diane started her volunteer work by spending time in her kids’ classrooms. Then without any planning on her end, she ended up working in the nonprofit field. She feels fortunate to spend every day helping people and families

• Go-To Cocktail: A light beer on the beach • Dream Vacation: • Favorite TV Show to Binge-Watch: Friends or • Currently Reading: Atomic Habits • Last Google Search: Wordle

get on their feet. It is a great pleasure to partner beside them as they work hard and try to make a better life. She is excited to see A Bed 4 Me continue growing and blessing the families of the community. It is encouraging to see so much support from other members of the community, and Diane is so grateful for the many hands who help bring these beds to the kids who need them. They have been successful because of the individual talents of her team.

She matches people with jobs they enjoy and watches them excel. Diane recently heard the quote, “Surround yourself with smart people and let them argue with you.” She has been leaning into that thought and letting new ideas help propel her along.

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| Heroines

Debbie West

Co-Owner, Simply Elegant written by: Emily Brink photography by: Jim Clark

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aving good role models as a young person is incredibly important, especially because these are the most transformative years in someone’s life. When Debbie West was growing up in Fort Walton Beach, Florida, she had parents who played an active role in her life and truly believed in her. This parental support helped shape her into the woman she is today and has influenced many of her life choices.

As she continued to grow older, her challenges grew to reflect her current situations. Debbie continued to push through the struggles and losses.

She used those hard days to make her stronger and propel her onto something greater.

Today, Debbie lives in Destin, Florida, and has been the co-owner of Simply Elegant for the past 37 years. Simply Elegant is a one-stopshop for all your formal occasions.

They have wedding dresses, bridesmaid dresses, and prom dresses.

They offer one-on-one appointments where the dress consultants can hone in on personal style and find the client’s perfect dress! Debbie also owns Elegance on the Bayou, a wedding and event venue in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. The venue sits on a 26-foot bluff overlooking Don’s Bayou and offers a country feel without having to drive all the way to the country. They have a wide range of themes to choose from and the capacity to provide indoor and outdoor settings. As a part of their packages, Debbie and her team really pull out the stops when it comes to making the event perfect. From theme planning and recommended caterers to built-in sound systems and floral designs, the day will look just like the client dreamed it would.

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Debbie has always admired people who owned their own business. Their courage and determination was an inspiration for Debbie to create something of her own.

Throughout the years, Debbie continued to ponder the idea of opening a business and ultimately settled on creating something in the fashion industry. Thus the bridal and prom dress shop was born. It has been a joy building an idea from nothing and turning it into something beautiful and fun!

If Debbie could go back and tell her 20-year-old self anything, she would say to follow her heart and surround herself with the people who bring her joy. Before she was a business owner, Debbie was a flight attendant. She loves to remember the phone call from Pan American Airlines when they asked if she could be in Honolulu, Hawaii, just two weeks later to begin flight attendant school. She loved her time working with the airlines because she got to experience so many different cultures and see the world.

Twelve years ago, Debbie became involved with Big Brother Big Sister, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to create and support one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth.

It was a way to pay it forward from having good role models when she was younger. She still stays in contact with some of the youth she has mentored. Debbie loves

Great Amenities Spectacular Views

• Last Google Search: Cruise trips around the world • Guilty Pleasure: Mississippi Mud Brownie at Sugar Mill Sweets ... yummy!

• Dream Vacation: Six months in Italy • Favorite Ice Cream Flavor: I love Belgium chocolate gelato.

• Fashion Icon: Heidi Klum

to see people achieve their dreams and hopes she can push them a little further along their path. People she has worked with in the past are happily married with families of their own and are excelling in their careers and business ventures. She hopes to make a positive impression on anyone she meets.

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| Heroines

Sabrina Kaestle Shaw Clinical Audiologist/Owner, The Hearing Doctor, Inc. written by: Emily Brink photography by: Kristina Wright

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ince opening her business and becoming more involved in the community, Sabrina Kaestle Shaw has met and worked with countless women who have influenced her along her way.

The women Sabrina has met throughout her life have been talented, hard working, and game-changing when it comes to aiding the community, and Sabrina tries to learn something from each one. Her mother is the most influential woman in her life. Sabrina’s parents were really young when they had her, which is never easy. Her mother has been through hell and back and somehow manages to come out the other side smiling. She shows Sabrina that it is important to give back and continue moving forward in spite of any adversity that comes along.

When Sabrina was born in Pensacola, Florida, neither of her parents had gone to college and sometimes really struggled to make ends meet. Sabrina took that experience and learned that heartache, hard work, perseverance, independence, and believing in herself were the only ways she would get anywhere. She was determined to put herself through college, be independent, and live life on her own terms. Today she is a clinical audiologist and owns her own practice/ hearing clinic in Milton, Florida, where she has been practicing for the last 22 years.

Everything she has today she worked hard for.

Looking back, Sabrina would tell her 20-year-old self to “stop comparing yourself to others. Be grateful for what you have instead of focusing on what you don’t have.

Just be unapologetically you and don’t worry so much about what other people think, especially those that want to see you fail.

Trust the process. Life’s a marathon not a sprint!” It was when Sabrina saw the impact making a difference in someone’s life had, that she was truly inspired to get involved.

She could see the gratitude and happiness in

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their eyes and knew she wanted to experience more of that.

Taking a look at Sabrina’s involvement in the community, it is clear she has sought out opportunities to give back wherever she can. She has been on many missions around the world with The Starkey Hearing Foundation to bring the gift of hearing to those with less opportunities. She is a current member of Impact 100 Pensacola Bay Area, a friend of PACE Center for Girls Pensacola, and a charter member of the Buona Fortuna Chapter of the Sons of Italy. Sabrina is also an annual rider for the Great Cycle Challenge for Childhood Cancer Awareness. She is an active member of the Krewe of SWAT where she has been fortunate enough to be a part of fundraising and volunteering for many organizations in the area. Her proudest accomplishment, however, is her three children — Caleb, Emma, and Grace.

Over the next five years, she will continue to grow her practice and develop a program that offers free aural rehab classes, counseling, mentoring, financial, and planning workshops for seniors in the community. The world is changing so quickly and she has seen the impact it has had on the senior population. They need an advocate more than ever before.

Throughout her career, Sabrina has received letters from patients thanking her for the impact she made in their lives. Her service helped improve their personal relationships, land better jobs, push through depression, become the first in their family to get a college degree, and simply enjoy social activities they couldn’t before. Their faith and trust in her helps drive her to continue to be the best provider and person that she can be.

• Last Google Search: Airline tickets to Ireland in June • Go-to Cocktail: Whiskey Old Fashioned, vodka and soda, or a top-shelf margarita depending on my mood and where I am. And, always wine! Those closest to me know I like a good bold Cab! • Dream Vacation: To live aboard a dive yacht and to scuba dive the Great Barrier Reef, Australia; Galapagos Islands; Palau; Maldives; Cuba; Thailand; and Indonesia. All are on my bucket list.

• Favorite Ice Cream Flavor: Everything from Donnelly’s Ice Cream in Saranac Lake, NY (my father’s hometown where I spend my summers). If you know, you know.

• Fashion Icon: Audrey Hepburn. Timeless.

• The Beach or The Pool: I prefer the beach. It’s my happy place.

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| Heroines

Lindsey Ryan Smith Principal, Lewis School written by: Emily Brink photography by: Elaine Tucker

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outherners are known for having school pride, and Principal Lindsey Ryan Smith is no exception (Go Falcons!!). It is no wonder that her greatest professional accomplishment is becoming the principal of Lewis School in Valparaiso, Florida. She has spent so much of her career working to get to this point and is grateful for the opportunity to be here today.

Lindsey loves getting to cheer on the Falcons both from an academic standpoint as well as cheering them on in their personal lives. The Falcons are a group of educators and students that are helping her to learn and grow every day. It is so rewarding to see the students become the best little humans they can possibly be.

Lindsey grew up in Del Rio, Texas, but moved to Shalimar, Florida, in 1995. Her draw to education came from her high school English teacher, Mrs. Hesse. Lindsey learned that even though the subject you are teaching is, of course important, what is even more important are the relationships you build with your students. Making sure they know you care about their successes is a far more valuable asset for their lives. That teacher really inspired Lindsey, and she knew she wanted to one day become someone else’s “Mrs. Hesse.” Her goal is to strive each day to make a lasting impact on those around her through relationships, kindness, and clarity.

Raised by parents who supported her and her goals in whatever way they could, Lindsey never felt like there were limits on what she could do. As she grew up, that circle of influence expanded to coaches, teachers, mentors, friends, and colleagues who supported her ambitions and big ideas.

In addition, her husband, Chester, has been her biggest cheerleader

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throughout their whole relationship. He also helps hold her accountable to herself so she can keep striving to improve every day. The little family and the life they have built together is her greatest personal accomplishment. As Lindsey takes inventory of all the amazing people she has had in her life, she has to acknowledge the influence they have had on her. This support has helped shape her into the woman she is today in all aspects of her life.

A mother’s influence is special, and Lindsey’s mother has definitely been the greatest female influence in her life.

She taught Lindsey that with drive and a bit of creativity you can do anything. She hopes that she can pass on the things she has learned to the people she mentors. Lindsey tries to be a servant-leader in her daily life, and really works beside those she is leading. She feels it is her duty to provide the same support she was given in her life and truly hopes those under her guidance flourish in their own lives. If Lindsey could go back and tell her 20-year-old self anything, it would be to just slow down a little bit. Take a breath! Also, remember to make taking care of yourself a priority.

Over the next five years, Lindsey plans on continuing her position as Principal at Lewis School and will give back to Okaloosa County through that avenue. Today’s children need involved adults now more than ever, and Lindsey hopes to continue inspiring the younger generation to succeed.

• Currently Reading: Kids These Days by Dr. Jody Carrington • Dream Vacation: Something on the open water, in a big catamaran, jumping from island to island.

• Go-to Cocktail: I love a good mimosa. If brunch is included, even better!

• Favorite Ice Cream Flavor: This one is tough — Ben & Jerry’s Karamel Sutra Core.

• Favorite Dish to Cook: I make a dish that we call “Tortellini Recipe,” and it is my son’s absolute favorite.

• Favorite Show to Binge-Watch: Schitt’s Creek — I can watch it over and over again.

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®

MILITARY RELOCATION PROFESSIONAL

WE FIND HOMES THAT FIT YOU

Dane Aho, Broker/Owner

dane@pcsfla.com | pcsfla.com (850) 974-0728 (Mobile) | (850) 664-2510 (Office) 28 A Walter Martin Road NE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548 ©2021 RE/MAX, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Pub 1/21 Each Office Independently Owned and Operated. 18_266971

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M

en — can’t live with them, can’t live without them. But luckily we’ve found a few good men! Leaders, mentors, partners, gentlemen.

There are approximately 161.6 million men in the United States. That’s a big number, but all we need is a few good men to make a difference. We are lucky that the Emerald Coast has as many good men as they do palm trees. Our area is booming with strong male role models helping to lead the way and to guide the younger generations down the right path.

These men are out there in our community making a real difference. They are running businesses, they are volunteering, they are working at the local nonprofits, they are fathers, and they are husbands. These men are juggling all of these jobs and are doing it with style and grace. Being a good man is more than just following the rules, it’s being the individual who goes above and beyond.

It’s being the man who isn’t afraid to stand up for what is right. A truly good man is one whose traits perfectly balance out. He is both strong and sensitive, a leader but can also take direction. A good man is someone you can look up to.

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| A Few Good Men

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Clayton Jones written by: Emily Brink photography by: Shanna Magnuson

O

ne of the personal philosophies held by Clayton Jones is that he never wants to live the same year twice in a row. Every year he makes it his personal mission to find a new passion to focus on while still making time for all the other things he loves and enjoys. He hopes this mindset helps him grow into a better person, at least in some aspect, every single year. It is his passion for growth and improvement that inspires him daily.

Growing up in a small town in Alabama called Phenix City, Clayton moved to Panama City Beach, Florida, about seven years ago. If he could look back and tell his 20-yearold self anything, it would be to listen and trust his gut. He believes that far too often in life, we know what is healthy and what is toxic for us really early on. Whether or not we choose to listen to that instinct is another story! Trusting your own intuition from the get-go is crucial in becoming your own person.

Today, Clayton is working as the Chief Financial Officer for Vacayzen, which offers a wide variety of vacation gear ranging from bikes, to beach gear, baby items, and more.

When he is not crunching numbers at his job, he is heavily involved in the local National Physique Committee (NPC).

The NPC is a bodybuilding community where Clayton is either competing, volunteering, coaching, or promoting.

He loves to get people excited about the capabilities of their bodies! He also serves on the boards of several organizations in the community.

When it comes to deciding what his greatest accomplishment is, Clayton is hesitant to name one thing.

To be honest, he isn’t sure he has found what his “greatest” accomplishment is yet. Sure, he has done some great things in his life and has been successful in many areas, but he likes to think the legacy we leave behind is the way we impact others. That impact will be the true testament of our biggest accomplishments in this life. Clayton tries his best to volunteer his time and donate his resources, just like so many others can and should be doing. However, he truly feels that the most important gift you can give is your focused attention and active listening. The small things end up turning into the big things later on.

Clayton’s late father worked hard his whole life, but that often left him spending long hours at the office most of Clayton’s life. His mother sacrificed so much to make sure that Clayton not only had a great childhood, but that he was set up for success when he reached adulthood. He would be nowhere near where he is today without her

constant love and support. She is, without a doubt, his greatest female influence.

As a strong promoter of faith, hope, and believing in yourself, Clayton is proud to have helped many people make it through some of the darkest periods in their lives. Everyone goes through valleys in life and even the strongest people need guidance from time to time. Clayton feels honored to have the opportunity to play a role in someone’s transformation. He cherishes the moments he gets to support them physically, emotionally, mentally, or spiritually.

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| A Few Good Men

Brian Wyer

President + CEO, Gulf Coast Minority Chamber of Commerce written by: Emily Brink photography provided by: Brian Wyer

B

orn and raised in Pensacola, Florida, Brian Wyer has deep roots and reasons to give back to the community.

He is currently the President and CEO of the Gulf Coast Minority Chamber of Commerce. Their mission is to serve as an advocate for minority-owned small businesses while ensuring economic fairness for all.

Brian was inspired to get involved back when he was a student at the University of West Florida. It was because of kind teachers and fellow classmates that Brian realized his qualities of compassion and empathy could be best used to help the people around him. He began volunteering for organizations around campus and was recommended for leadership positions shortly thereafter. Seeing the positive outcome of productive teamwork has provided him with his life’s purpose.

Looking back, Brian would tell his 20-year-old self to never give up, that life comes with many highs and lows.

And, to make the roller coaster work, successful people enjoy the highs without being over confident and push through the lows by understanding that better times are ahead. The really happy people find the time to give back to others during the high times and fall back on a strong network of family and friends during the low times. Today, Brian is most proud of the family he and his wife of 28 years have raised together. She is strong, beautiful, and successful. Their three children reflect those qualities and have been raised with the values and abilities to change the world. In fact, Brian would not be surprised if his two daughters one day ended up in the pages of Scarlett!

Female influences can come from all kinds of places.

Brian’s biggest female influence is Shirley Chisholm, who was the first African American woman to be elected to Congress. Not only did Shirley serve seven terms in Congress, she was also the first woman and African American person to seek nomination for president of the United States in a major party. She fought heavily for racial equality, gender equality, and better resources for the lower class. Her fearlessness to break through barriers has given Brian personal inspiration in his own life.

As a leader, Brian tries to stress the importance of working with all people fairly and with an abundance of compassion. He tries to instill the idea that although business accomplishments are important, leaders should also consider the toll their decisions have on other human beings. Employees that are not treated well will not only

hurt the business, but that poor treatment will have a ripple effect through the employee’s home life, their children, and throughout the entire community. This series of events will adversely impact the future leaders of the next generation.

Over the years, Brian has volunteered his time, treasures, and talents with many nonprofit organizations and local government committees. At times, his list of community involvement has grown to more than 30 organizations!

Over the next five years, Brian hopes to serve the city of Pensacola as the District 2 City Council Person. He also plans to continue serving in various other nonprofits. He would be so grateful for the opportunity to represent the voters in this governmental capacity.

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www.ScarlettMag.com

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written by: Emily Brink / photography by: Patsy Brown

K

risten Urbanavage grew up in Pensacola, Florida, and Taylor Fuller grew up in Magnolia, Texas. Their meeting was a work of fate. Taylor moved to the area to attend the University of West Florida and needed a job. Through connections from his aunt, Taylor went to work at Double Crown Farms, a halter horse breeding farm owned by Chris Croley and Jerry Drinkard. At that same time, Kristen was riding horses for Chris and Jerry and that is how the two met.

They spent a whole night together waiting to help a mare deliver her baby and started dating not long after.

For the next six years, they dated and built a life together making it full of all the things they loved. One day when they were visiting Vancouver Island in British Columbia, they took a beautiful hike in the rain, just the two of them. That was when Taylor asked Kristen to marry him, and she said yes. It wasn’t until a few months later that they eventually told their families.

They used Taylor’s 30th birthday as a ruse to get the entire family together on a cruise (including Chris and Jerry who are as close as family). That is where they told the family they were engaged!

Their entire engagement lasted nine months, and they were married on March 14, 2020.

Their wedding venue was a 100-year-old beautiful barn that sits on the property owned by Chris and Jerry where they first met. The special guests of honor were Kristen’s horse, all three of their dogs, their chickens, and Chris and Jerry's goats.

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Surrounded by people they loved, a sentimental area, and some steel-blue decor, the setting was perfect.

For the actual ceremony, Chris got legally ordained and performed the ceremony. He wrote the script perfectly to make it unique to Taylor and Kristen. It was sweet to have one of their dearest friends and someone who had been a part of their journey from the beginning be the officiant. Only 30 people attended the ceremony, but close to 100 came to celebrate later that day at the reception.

Friends and acquaintances helped the couple complete the details of their dream wedding. A long-time family friend did Kristen’s hair and makeup, which turned out stunning. Mary Henriques and Molly Fuqua were up for the challenge of the flowers creating beautiful and elegant arrangements. The dress was purchased from Mercari. It was simple and perfect for the setting. It came brand new with the tags still on and fit Kristen beautifully. When it came to the cake, it was really a no-brainer. Betty Ann Weber was a relative of a neighbor of the Urbanavage family growing up. Once a year at the Super Bowl, they would get one of Betty’s chocolate cakes. Ever since she was little, Kristen wanted that cake at her wedding. And after Taylor had his first bite, he was sold. The cake was one of the best parts of the wedding! When it came to the photos, their friend Patsy

Brown blew them away. Patsy loves animals just as much as they do, and the photos really reflect that love.

Surrounded by people and animals that held special places in their hearts, the married couple’s first dance was to I Can’t Help Falling in Love With You by Elvis Presley. It may have been a simple wedding by some standards, but it was exactly what Taylor and Kristen wanted: simple, country, and significant.

Kristen’s best advice is to not bother with what other people think you should do and just do what you and your partner want. Make your day about you!

Wedding Planner: Kelly Campbell Hair + Makeup: Melissa Biggs Cake: Betty Ann Weber Caterer: David Penniman

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by Renee Krul, Designer & Owner • 850.830.5465 • BijouxDeMer.com

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Eat, Drink, Beach, Repeat

written by: Liesel Schmidt photograhy provided by: Saltwater Restaurants

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hen you imagine a burger joint, you likely think of some place that just serves up the quintessential hamburger and fries with all the traditional fixings. But when Al’s Beach Club & Burger Bar opened at the Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island in 2016, burgers and fries weren’t the only thing that this beachfront eatery planned to serve, deciding to shake things up a bit, literally and figuratively. Not only do they offer a killer menu of shakes, they also offer a killer list of never-ending weekly and special events that make Al’s a place where your Insta-story gets ALL the “Likes.”

www.ScarlettMag.com

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Offering live entertainment every day of the week on its outdoor stage, Al’s menu of must-see entertainment includes everything from acoustic artists on weekdays to lively local and regional cover bands every weekend.

Keeping things family friendly, Mondays feature a free pirate show from Capt.

Davy & The Crossbones, while Tuesday nights mean Movies on the Beach with classic family movies played out on the restaurant’s 20-foot inflatable screen.

Wednesday nights bring the fire(works), and Thursdays get the party started with luaus, complete with hula dancers, facepainting, leis, and a jaw-dropping fire performance.

“Al’s truly is unique in the ways that it breaks out of the box of what people expect from restaurants, and we keep it lively and entertaining for everyone,” says Marketing Director Misty Rae Ruthrauff. “For us, it’s about more than just the food — although burgers, handcut fries, and the homemade custard milkshakes are something everyone should experience. Really though, it’s all of it together that makes it so great: the entertainment, the casual beach vibes, family friendly atmosphere,” she adds.

And while their lively events calendar could certainly draw a crowd on its own, the downtime between shows is far from boring. Al’s also has its very own splash pad and beach games like cornhole, life-size Jenga, and king-size Connect 4 that keep kids (and kids at heart) occupied while the adults are busy “adulting” — and possibly indulging in one of Al’s signature cocktails or a boozy-milkshake. After the sun sets, Al’s state-of-the-art, show-stopping lighting system livens up the entire Boardwalk with live bands and a house DJ. “Al’s is all about family, food, and fun on the beach!” says Misty Rae. From burgers and fries to live bands and pirate shows, Al’s is one place where fun isn’t just a side item — it’s the highlight of their menu.

Al’s Beach Club & Burger Bar is located at 1450 Miracle Strip Parkway SE, Ft. Walton Beach, Florida 32548. For more information on the restaurant and the events calendar, call (850) 226-4100 or visit www.AlsBeachClub.com.

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Let's Get Physical |

Pole written by: Liesel Schmidt

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E

ven if you’ve never actually planted your ass on the couch to watch Showgirls or Striptease, chances are you have some vague idea of what happens with a stripper pole.

And admit it, honey bunny, you’re slightly jealous of the upper body strength some of those girls have. For reals, can you do all the things they do on that skinny little pole?

Didn’t think so.

Well, spoiler alert: The pole-dancing thing doesn’t have to be strictly a strip-joint kind of activity. In fact, it’s actually a really good workout … for, like, normal people.

Even PTA-meeting-attending, brownie-baking, straightlaced women who look like they wouldn’t know a strip club from a strip steak. Face it, we’ve all got a little stripper in us somewhere. We all want to be able to captivate the attention of the special person in our lives and have them basically worship at our feet. And, we all want to be secure enough in ourselves to be that uninhibited. Then there’s the added bonus of the muscle toning and calorie blasting that it can offer, not to mention the flexibility. And who doesn’t love to show off just how bendy they can be in the bedroom?

Do we have your attention yet? Good. Well, for all of you who can’t wrap your head around wrapping yourself around a pole, here’s the 4-1-1 on pole dancing and the plethora of bennies it provides.

www.ScarlettMag.com

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It Releases Endorphins

For those of you who don’t know what endorphins are, they’re the hormones that make you feel happy and suppress pain receptors in your brain. Sounds fun, no? Well, pole dancing actually releases endorphins. The exertion sets those suckers free — thereby relieving stress and anxiety.

It Builds Strength

Pole dancing involves both movement as well as constant repetition of those movements, which in turn eventually increases strength. Mystery solved — this strengthening is precisely why pole dancers move with such ease through routines that seem to defy gravity.

It Increases Coordination

Samba, salsa, Macarena … Just kidding. All dancing requires coordination, and pole dancing is no exception. Working that pole uses several parts of the body at once, which means total coordination not to lose the plot. Also, pole moves become part of routines, entailing a series of moves that must be seamlessly choreographed, which also requires — you guessed it, tell the lady what she’s won — coordination.

It Builds Muscle

Duh. All that strength we mentioned earlier? Well, that translates into gains where muscle is concerned. You’ll notice better muscle tone in your large muscle groups as well as the small ones because of the moves you’re repeating, over and over again, as you use those muscles.

It Equals Fab Abs

All those muscles being toned and strengthened include your abs, which is one of the areas that women so closely keep an eye on and try so hard to work. Pole dancing requires an intense amount of core stability for the moves; and as you practice these moves, you’re toning those abs. Total win-win.

It Torches Calories

Like all exercise, pole dancing helps burn fat and aids weight loss but in a way that feels more like fun and less like a traditional workout. Instead, you’re learning the ah-may-zing things your body can do and finding your rhythm.

It Increases Flexibility ( Bendiness )

Think you can’t do the splits like pole dancers do? Well, sweetie, they weren’t all blessed with the ability to contort themselves like that right from the word “go.” It took practice. And, with practice, you’ll also soon be bendy enough to give those lovelies a run for their money. But more than just the bragging rights of having the litheness of a high school cheerleader, pole dancing improves flexibility, which reduces the risk of muscle injuries and soreness.

It Redefines Self - Image and Boosts Self - Esteem

Take a “before” picture, lovey, because It. Will. Change. You. All the self-doubt that you have about your own abilities as well as your own confidence will be challenged, stripped, and replaced with confidence and strength that you can see — and others will too. You will be forced out of your own self-contained box of “safe,” and you will see yourself grow.

It Encourages Self - Expression

Like any form of dance, pole dancing engages your emotions and provides an outlet to express those emotions. Interestingly, it’s a great way to show what you feel and tap into who you want to be, at your core. And once you release that — it’s an amazing thing to behold.

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www.ScarlettMag.com

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Tour of Homes Pensacola |

You Purchased the Perfect House!

Now What? with Special Guest Writer

Jessica Duncan

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Y

ou searched high and low to find the perfect house. You found the one that checked all the boxes. It’s finally yours!

You are now the proud owner of your new home, but what’s next? In the first year of your new homeownership there are three areas you should focus on.

The first area to focus on is the financial side of homeownership. You want to find ways to save money and protect your assets. If this is your primary residence in Florida, you can file for a homestead exemption with the property appraiser’s office. It is easy to do and lowers the property’s taxable assessed value. Who does not want to pay less in taxes? Homestead exemption also offers legal protection to your homestead against some creditors if you find yourself in unforeseen circumstances. Next, make sure you have enough

protection for your new asset. Many people skip this step, but I recommend having a detailed discussion with your insurance agent. Before closing, you were rushing to get insurance on the home and did not want to delay closing. Your insurance agent will help ensure you have enough coverage to rebuild your home to its same quality. Do you have enough insurance to cover the types of personal property in your home?

Most insurance policies will limit specific categories such as electronics, jewelry, and collectibles. Review all the limitations and make the best decision for your personal needs. Then you need to document everything you have in your home. I think the easiest way to achieve documentation is to video the contents of your house. Make sure you store the video in cloud storage. Imagine a hurricane has come through and

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damaged your home, and you are trying to remember precisely everything you own in order to list it out in detail for the insurance adjuster. It’s harder to remember than you think.

Once you have the financial side of homeownership handled and have obtained the proper protection for your new asset, it’s time to deal with maintenance and repair issues. Not addressing these issues is one of the biggest mistakes I see homeowners make. Years after they have owned the home, when they go to sell it, the same problems show up on the home inspection as when they purchased it. After closing, it is essential to pull up the home inspection report you had completed during your inspection period. There are usually some items that need to be fixed. Completing all the

maintenance and repair issues will protect your investment.

Most maintenance issues become more significant and expensive if left unaddressed over time. Go through your inspection line by line and address the problems reported.

Simple items such as caulk around the windows could also save you money on your power bill. Let your insurance agent know if you improve things on your wind-mitigation report and four-point inspection (roof, HVAC, plumbing, and electrical).

These improvements may reduce your insurance expense.

Now it’s time to make it your own! Remember the first time you walked through the house before you purchased it. Your head was full of ideas to make the place feel like yours. You had many ideas of how to make it fit your lifestyle better. Maybe 61

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you wanted to install a custom closet system in the master closet, create a coffee bar in the kitchen, or tile a walk-in shower. Don’t wait until it’s time to move to fix the place up. Make a list of these ideas and a budget for each one. Then rank the list in priority.

As you have the funds available, knock these items out.

Homeownership brings us joy, a feeling of accomplishment, and a sense of security. When you take the time to address the financial side, ensure your asset is protected, and make the home your own, your satisfaction in the house will increase exponentially. You worked hard for this achievement. It’s time to enjoy it.

Jessica Duncan Real Estate Agent

Jessica Duncan, an award-winning, top-producing Realtor with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Main Street Properties, is driven by a passion for providing the highest level of service with integrity to clients in her hometown.

Jessica was born and raised in Pensacola, educated at the University of West Florida, and is deeply rooted in her community. She has a Bachelor of Science in Marketing and Finance and prides herself in being innovative in real estate sales and marketing strategies, a skillset sharpened through 12 years in the corporate arena as a marketing strategist.

In addition to real estate, Jessica is passionate about serving her community through several area nonprofits and is a proud board member of IMPACT100 Pensacola Bay Area, an all-women philanthropic organization.

1313 Creighton Rd • Pensacola, 32504 850.554.1783

WOTYS

TOP THREE

If you’d like to recommend a home to be featured, email Jessica at Jessica@JessicaLoveDuncan.com. www.ScarlettMag.com

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| Close-Up

written by: Liesel Schmidt photography by: Little Miss Creative + Jenna Kaye Photography

A

all day

fter working in the wedding and event industry for 20 years, Amanda Bierbaum, together with her husband, Todd, decided to launch their own business — inspired, in part, by the floral shop that Todd’s grandparents owned for 30 years. “In homage to their entrepreneurial spirit, we took the leap of faith to open our own version of a boutique florist,” says Amanda.

Operating under the name Soirée, the business is indeed a homage — and a beautiful one at that — to Todd’s grandparents.

It takes the idea of a florist and bumps it up to an 11.

Specializing in providing extraordinary floral arrangements for all manner of events from weddings to birthdays to any other occasion worthy of flowers, they set their sights far higher than the traditional fare offered by other florists. “We focus on creativity and use unique florals not typically found in your

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average arrangement,” says Amanda, who officially launched the company with Todd in 2019. “We’re proud to be small and focus on quality over quantity, allowing us to establish lasting relationships with our clients.”

Those relationships are especially strong with their bridal clients — and, being that weddings are Amanda’s favorite type of event, it’s understandable. “Bringing unique ideas to life for my clients is extremely fulfilling,” she says. “Of course, seeing all the beautiful photography afterward is a nice bonus.”

Over the past three years, Soirée has become an important part of the business community of DeFuniak Springs, and Amanda and Todd are proud of the contribution they’re making to the local economy. “City centers and downtowns are the lifeblood of a community, and when we moved into our shop in downtown, Baldwin Avenue was in desperate need of some new life,” notes Amanda, who previously served on the Board of Directors for Young Professionals of Walton County as well as the Florida Public Relations Association and is currently President of the Main Street DeFuniak Springs Board of Directors. “My husband and I could see the vision of what downtown could be, and we wanted to be part of the change. A passion for community and personal connection was a driving factor in making our dream of entrepreneurship a reality, and Soirée is the result of that dream.”

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More than the experience she gained in her 20 years in the event industry, Amanda brings an incredible passion to the table, as well as an innate sense of creativity. In addition to event planning, she had a successful photography business specializing in family, weddings, and celebrity shoots as well as in-depth knowledge of graphics — all of which have instilled in her a high standard of excellence and attention to detail.

Like Amanda, Todd contributes a great deal of expertise to Soirée, though his niche is more on the technical side than the creative. With 21 years of experience in IT and media production, he brings all the operations knowledge to Soirée.

His dedication to the community is also an asset, as Todd serves as a City of DeFuniak Springs City Councilman and President of the Board of Directors for the Florida Chautauqua, Inc. Truly, it is Soirée’s concept that sets them apart, and the secret to their success, even in a time when events became scarce due to the pandemic. “We really are a one-stop party shop as well as being a florist,” Amanda explains. “We cover a wide variety of needs from invitations, custom cups and favors, linens, florals, and balloons to planning, decorating, and gifts.”

Beyond the tangible, there is another aspect to Soirée that brings people through their doors: “There is a level of trust my clients have with me that sets us apart in the industry,” Amanda contends. “Clients have faith that I can see their vision, and that I will exceed their expectations. That’s what I strive to accomplish, each and every time.”

Located at 804 Baldwin Ave, DeFuniak Springs, FL 32435.

For more information, call (850) 520-4193 or visit SoireeDFS.com.

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THE

CLIQUE

Sis, these are the women, I mean, THE women. These are the gals to keep your eye on. They are the ones who Get. It. Done. The Clique is a group of women that come from all walks of life and all industries. Get to know them...

Do you want to be part of The Clique? Join the group every issue in celebration of what’s unique about each woman. Whether you want the community to know about a stand-out employee, highlight a new addition to your crew, or pat yourself on the back after an extraordinary achievement, The Clique is your chance to be part of a remarkable tribe of women!

S

Dana Birlingmair

ome ladies have all the luck. Dana Birlingmair felt like she’d won the lottery when she earned the chance to work as Wedding Group Sales Manager at Wyndham Vacation Rentals because she got to work with and learn from her dynamic colleagues. And she got paid to socialize! Two years later, she hit the jackpot again with the role of Wedding Sales Manager at The Island Resort at Fort Walton Beach.

She feels it’s a privilege to create wedding memories at this beautiful property and work with such a supportive team of amazing women.

The first time she visited The Island Resort was for an open house showcasing new wedding amenities. Even then, she thought “What a wonderful, picturesque place to host a wedding.”

Dana has been a Fort Walton Beach resident since 1984, and this is her favorite venue on the Emerald Coast. Its rich history, location, and welcoming atmosphere make it an intrinsic part of the community and a joy to be part of.

When she’s not busy helping couples tie the knot, Dana enjoys her new role as grandma to two wee “bairns.” She loves taking her family to Okaloosa Island where they can enjoy the beach together.

THE ISLAND RESORT AT FORT WALTON BEACH

850.337.9171 • 1500 Miracle Strip Parkway SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548

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Amy Day

orn and raised in Pensacola, Florida, Amy Day is a community-minded, small business owner and advocate with a larger-than-life personality (and fiery red hair to match)!

Customers of her business say that her big smile and bubbly personality are just as much an integral part of their day as the products she serves. She is a mother of three, the youngest of which received an interesting medical diagnosis at an early age, which inspired Amy to lose more than 100 pounds and seek to become the healthiest version of herself that she could be.

Through that weight loss journey, she came to realize our community could greatly benefit from healthy fast food options and a positive, uplifting, supportive environment. So in 2021, Amy opened Everyday Nutrition, which serves meal replacement smoothies and energy teas six days a week from her location on Bayou Boulevard. Amy is excited for the future of Pensacola — particularly as it relates to people’s nutrition, business interconnectivity, and helping individuals to seek out and celebrate healthier lifestyles.

EVERYDAY NUTRITION - PENSACOLA

850.285.0153 • www.Facebook.com/EverydayNutritionPensacola/ www.ScarlettMag.com

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written by: Emily Brink / photography submitted by: Renee Krul

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ometimes you meet someone and it feels like you have known them your entire life. Things between you feel easy and comfortable, and there is just something about the person that feels like coming home. That is how Renee Launiere and Keith Krul felt about each other from the very beginning of their relationship.

Renee grew up in Washington, D.C., but moved to Miramar Beach, Florida, in 2014, which is actually the same year that Keith moved to Miramar Beach from Detroit, Michigan. However, it wasn’t until 2021 that the couple met online and instantly connected. Renee runs her own luxury jewelry business, Bijoux De Mer Fine Jewelry, and Keith is retired from the U.S. Airforce. Exactly 111 days after meeting, Keith proposed at a bonfire on the beach. Nine months later, the couple whisked off to the Maldives to celebrate their unique and deeply personal wedding.

Eloping is the perfect alternative for the couple looking for something different than a traditional wedding ceremony. For Renee and Keith, eloping just made sense. They had both done the traditional wedding route previously, and the idea of spending that kind of money just did not sit right with them. So, they took all that money they would have spent on throwing a big wedding and invested it in themselves instead. They had a huge, over-the-top elopement trip and honeymoon that turned out to be the best thing for them.

The two have traveled extensively in their lives so they wanted to go somewhere neither had ever been. The Maldives fit the bill perfectly. The couple started their epic wedding celebration in Dubai for a week while they adjusted to the jet lag and pampered themselves at the five-star Habtoor Palace. Next they jetted off to the Maldives to stay 11 days at the Ozen Life Maadhoo, a resort that caters specifically to couples wanting over-the-top luxury service. Their over-the-water bungalow, private splash pool, and outdoor double hammock alone made the resort an obvious choice.

Their wedding day was made easy with Renee doing her own hair and makeup and the resort taking care of the rest. They opted for a traditional Maldivian procession which had them walking hand in hand down the beach while the drums beat rhythmically in the background and rose petals were thrown at them in celebration.

They said their personalized vows against the stunning turquoise backdrop of the Indian Ocean, broken only by a simple arch adorned with peach roses and orchids. After the ceremony, they were whisked off on a private sunset champagne cruise and ended the night with a five-course meal on the beach. The next morning they were served a floating breakfast in their private splash pool and had a couples massage. The whole thing was so magical and romantic.

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Choosing an elopement over a traditional wedding may not be right for everyone, but it was certainly the best decision for Keith and Renee! There are no regrets when it comes to being pampered for three weeks and getting to come home married to the love of your life. The only regret is that they did not meet earlier in life. They really are best friends and think the world of each other! Even though they did not meet until they were in their 50s, they have that teenager kind of love you only see in the movies. They are the happiest they have ever been and are so glad they chose to do an epic elopement versus a traditional wedding.

If you are thinking about eloping, this is your sign! If it turns out anything like how it did for Renee and Keith, it will be totally amazing.

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Happy Hour |

POPPING written by: Courtney Murray

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ou’re sitting at a table with beautiful, crisp white linens and sparkling silver place settings. The sweet smell of the lilac and tea rose centerpieces floats through the air. You’ve just finished a decadent three-course dinner and the melodies of the string quartet are slowly beginning to fill the room. You’re surrounded by your family and loved ones as you pour Champagne into eagerly awaiting flutes and watch the effervescent bubbles dance across the surface of the liquid. You are happy, you are filled with joy, you are celebrating. For as long as there has been cause for celebration, there has been Champagne! This festive beverage is found as the centerpiece for weddings and many other joyous occasions. At the end of every speech are the infamous words, “Now let’s raise a glass to … .” And, where would we be without the Champagne filling the glass? Champagne is used as a prop in countless celebratory photographs from large groups of wide-smiling girls giggling in matching pajamas at a bachelorette party to a happy couple wearing a suit and sequin gown clinking glasses in an engagement photo.

Aside from drinking Champagne to rejoice, the drink has also been utilized to shake, spray, and even smash in a celebratory manner.

Usually inexpensive Champagne is used, but depending on who you are, maybe you are going high-end just for the appearance. Picture the epic party scene from so many movies when someone is standing on the balcony overlooking a sea of party-goers as they hold their finger over the opening of a Champagne bottle ready to burst. Then, while emphatically shaking the bottle, they spray the fizzy liquid over the crowd. Formula 1 drivers have famously stood on the winners’ podium while victoriously spraying Champagne after completing their final laps. Inexpensive brands like Andre and Barefoot are commonly used for these types of uses because who wants to waste a bottle of Veuve Clicquot? Then there are traditions like breaking a bottle of Champagne over the bow of a new boat as good luck for the ship and crew. Some consider it to be an evil omen for the ship and its passengers if you fail to break the bottle. The ceremonious act is called “christening the boat.” A speech is given with a few words about the new boat and a toast to the vessel’s name. Then you break the bottle on the bow and pour the contents onto it. You can now even buy special pre-scored bottles specifically made for boat christenings. You get the same celebratory effect but without damaging your boat or shattering glass everywhere; sounds good to me.

While I would definitely prefer to have a Champagne bottle full of crisp, bubbly, and refreshing liquid to drink; there are now empty Champagne bottles sold with confetti and streamers to use for parties, surprises, and celebrations. These action-packed bottles can be filled with contents matching your theme for a bridal shower or birthday party. They are also often used for gender reveal parties filled with pink or blue streamers or glitter and festive confetti. So whether you are popping it, spraying it, or sipping it, Champagne is always cause for celebration. Cheers!

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Celebrating the Places and Faces of Pensacola

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Save The

Be the Change |

written by: Liesel Schmidt photography provided by: Save The Closet

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t is in times of crisis that people have the chance to shine, when they have the opportunity to show their heart and their kindness and prove that the human spirit truly can make a difference. And, in the aftermath of Hurricane Michael’s brutal assault on Northwest Florida late in the summer of 2018, that human spirit came out in full force to rebuild, repair, and restore the hearts and hopes of those whose lives were tossed about — and seemingly destroyed — by the storm’s merciless winds.

Naturally, efforts to rebuild seem impossible when damage is so widespread, where there are countless homes without power or water, areas submerged in deep water, food and water supplies depleted, medical help out of easy reach. But, even in the midst of all that, there can still shine a ray of hope when selflessness, compassion, and love emerge from the darkness and bring people together for one common goal of doing good.

It was in an effort of mobilizing that goal and bringing it to fruition that Panama City resident Katy Lingle Pinson created Save The Closet (STC) in October of that year. Katy saw a need that was not being addressed by the traditional relief organizations. “I was inspired to do something because of the incredible need I witnessed after Hurricane Michael and the absolute necessity for dignity in the donation process,” says Katy, who moved to the area from Charlotte, North Carolina, and owns Beach Babes Realty. “It’s bad enough to lose your home, but these people had lost everything else in the process, as well as their belongings, their personal items, their clothing. I wanted to address that need, but the thought of handing people garbage bags of clothes was unconscionable to me, and I knew we could do better. So, we did.”

Functioning as a no-cost, mobile pop-up boutique providing assistance to communities following natural disasters and to individuals during life transitions, STC’s mission statement boils down to three words: “Donations with Dignity.” Over the past three and a half years, Katy has seen the void that her organization has filled, proving just how important the work is. “We cannot rely on the government to meet all needs in a community,” she says. “Our society has so much excess that we can easily share and ensure that everyone has what they need to feel confident about their personal appearance. Disasters also have a way of forcing job changes and weight fluctuations, which prompt the need for new clothing options. We provide a solution to all of these needs.”

Largely self-funded by Katy and supplemented by financial donations, STC only recently opened a resale boutique to bring in much needed funding to keep operations running. “We set aside higher-end and vintage items that are donated for sale online and in the boutique in the hope of becoming selfsufficient,” Katy explains.

To date, STC has hosted 45 giveaways in five states and served more than 13,000 people. “We’re pretty proud of those numbers in such a short amount of time,” Katy notes. Still, they continue to need money, volunteers, and space to grow. They also need new and gently used clothing, shoes, and accessories for men, women, and children. Luxury and vintage items are set aside for revenue generation, while the majority go straight into their “free” closet. These items are then distributed through their large mobile disaster relief giveaways.

A particular point of pride for STC is its new Artist Collaboration Collection. “Local creatives select the donations

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of their choice and customize the garments, creating one-ofa-kind pieces of wearable art,” Katy explains. “Jackets, jeans, handbags, hats, and other items will be part of the collection to be sold at our retail store. The artists will receive compensation from the sales as well, making this truly beneficial for everyone.”

In addition, STC also operates as a support organization for local need-based agencies and for those going through life transitions within the community such as foster children, domestic violence victims, those reentering society after incarceration, homelessness, terminal illness or struggling single parents.

For Katy and her team at Save The Closet, the work they do is about much more than clothing someone’s body. It’s about clothing their spirit with hope.

Save The Closet is located at 12202 Hutchison Blvd., #400, PCB, FL 32407. For more information, visit www.SaveTheCloset.com or www.Facebook.com/SaveTheCloset. coming soon.

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Happily Ever After Begins at Emerald Grande at HarborWalk Village written by: Rachel Velasquez photography provided by: Emerald Grande at HarborWalk Village

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et amidst Destin’s HarborWalk Village, on the edge of the glittering Gulf of Mexico, Emerald Grande is one of the most renowned wedding locations on the Gulf Coast. This premier resort, known for their Southern hospitality, specializes in “Happily Ever After.”

The perfect wedding experience requires planning, down to the smallest of details. Fortunately, Emerald Grande is fully equipped to provide for every aspect of your dream wedding.

A variety of wedding packages, from beautifully simple to splendidly extravagant, ensures a seamless and memorable chapter in the life of the soonto-be wedded couple. Emerald Grande’s team is committed to making sure each bride’s dreams come true — providing a custom experience from the moment the venue is reserved to the final wave goodbye.

Celebrations can be customized to fulfill each bride and groom’s vision and expectation. Typically, couples work with the same event specialist throughout their entire planning process receiving personal service and attention to detail.

While Emerald Grande provides a guide of preferred vendors, ultimately the entire wedding will be completely reflective of the future newlywed’s style and

taste, therefore outside vendors are welcome.

Emerald Grande cherishes each experience and feels honored to be a part of this magical journey.

The award-winning culinary team offers a variety of menu options including traditional and custom chef creations. The catering department presents a plethora of selections, from classic carving stations to trendy displays such as a risotto or fajita bar. Beautiful buffets and formal, plated sit-down dinners are both dining options when you celebrate your big day at the Emerald Grande.

This first-class resort’s elegant array of indoor and outdoor venues offers breathtaking views of emerald waters and dazzling sunsets creating the perfect backdrop for your ceremony, reception, or social celebration.

From a “toes in the sand” ceremony to making a “Grande” staircase entrance, the possibilities are endless when planning your big day.

The Captain’s Deck, one of the most popular wedding locations, offers a gorgeous outdoor veranda overlooking the Gulf. Other options include the elegant HarborView Room and the newly renovated Grande Ballroom, both offering panoramic views of the Destin Harbor.

In addition to featuring a variety of sophisticated wedding venues, this luxury

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waterfront property boasts more than 200 well-appointed resort accommodations, where guests have the convenience of staying on site for the celebration. The Emerald Grande team is available to help you plan a variety of events surrounding your wedding.

Create a memorable experience for your guests with a welcome reception on the Vista Veranda or a day of pampering with family and friends at The Spa at the Emerald Grande, a full-service luxury spa. Relax by the pool or enjoy a day at the private beach, just a short boat ride away. From bridal brunches and showers to bachelor and bachelorette parties at HarborWalk Village, this luxurious resort can accommodate all your wedding festivities.

Start planning the first day of the rest of your life. Say, “I Do” at the Emerald Grande, the crown jewel of the Destin Harbor.

Meet the Team

Emily Owen | Director of Catering Sales Emily Owen was searching for an internship opportunity online when she landed on the Emerald Grande at HarborWalk Village website.

Moving from Buffalo, New York, Emily was determined to build a career in weddings and special events. She started as an intern within the Food & Beverage Department and six years later, she is now the Director of Catering Sales. Emily is focused on building a relationship and connecting with each bride and event planner so she can customize every event for her clients. Emily developed the Wedding Coordination Program at Emerald Grande, and she continues to study industry trends so she can seamlessly aid brides in the planning process. With an eye for detail and a passion for guest service, Emily is dedicated to making every experience "Grande."

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Flow

Go With The written by: Liesel Schmidt

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ou’re starting to feel a little bit “off,’’ you’re craving chocolate, your boobs feel like someone squeezed them in a vice, and you’re feeling a little crampy … Check that calendar, honey, ‘cause it’s about to flow. As fun as it is to deal with all that blood (insert eye roll here), the goal is to make your seven days surfing the crimson wave as hassle-free, painless, and mess-free as possible. Fortunately, we’ve come a long way from the days of free-bleeding into our clothes or having to hold homemade period pads up with suspenders the way they did in the 1800s. Hell, we’ve come a long way from the period technologies of the last 30 years thanks to the work of industrious and forward-thinking people with a vision to make things just a little bit better for those of us who have the absolute pleasure of contending with a monthly visitor.

So what are your choices? Well, there are of course the standard no-nonsense, nofrills pads and tampons that now come in everything from super-absorbency to ultralight according to your flow, and even ultra-tiny options. We’re talking compact enough to put in your wallet. They even come in sizes according to your panty size.

Clearly, the possibilities are endless even in the mainstream. This can be a good thing or a bad thing, depending on whether you’re standing in the feminine aisle yourself or have sent out your hapless significant other to stand there, scratching his head, and trying to interpret all of the different packages and what everything means. But we digress.

Moving on to the not-so-mainstream options available today. If you are looking for an environmentally friendly option that doesn’t contain synthetic materials, there are organic cotton tampons with or without applicators. No applicator means less waste and is a great way to steer clear of synthetic fibers getting all up in your business. And maxi pad wearers can also rejoice, as organic cotton pads offer more breathability than the manmade fibers of traditional pads, all while keeping you dry thanks to an absorbent cellulose core. The soft cotton also reduces the risk of allergic reactions and skin irritation.

Another good-for-the-environment option is the menstrual cup, which essentially collects your flow for up to 12 hours. They’re leak-free, odor-free, comfortable, and simple to use — not to mention sustainable and budget-friendly. For removal, just pinch the base, pull it out, and wash well with hot water. In much the same vein, a menstrual disc also provides 12 hours of use and actually holds five tampons’ worth of fluid (holy shark week, Batman!), so you'll use fewer discs than you would if you were going the route of pads or tampons. While these are disposable and one-time-use only, they still minimize your carbon footprint; and they’re hypoallergenic and free of BPA, phthalates, and latex. Another plus — and this is a BIG one: period sex! You can actually wear one of these suckers while you’re getting it on and enjoy mess-free fun.

Bow-chicka-wow-wow.

Here’s one you might not see coming: sea sponges. Yes, you read that right. As whacked out as it may sound, natural sea sponges are a great alternative to tampons.

Think about it. They come from the ocean, i.e. they're natural and free of chemicals, bleach, chlorine, fragrance, dyes, or synthetic materials. Reuse them for up to six months for low-cost, sustainable absorption. They’re also easily custom-fitted, as you can trim them if the sponges seem too big.

For a washable option that will save you money and save your pretty underwear, try period panties that provide great backup to tampons or pads for heavy days or solo protection for light-flow days. Another great alternative is a reusable 100% cotton pad with a winged envelope-style holder that snaps around your underwear with a removable insert that absorbs your flow. The design allows you to change the insert as needed, then toss the used one into the washing machine. Obviously, these are more eco-friendly than disposable pads, and because they last for years, they save you money over time.

So, now that we’ve broken down all your options, check them out and see which works best for you. Try a few. Sure, you’re still going to have to deal with a code red every freaking month, but at least you can be prepared in the best way for you.

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| Get Ready with Me

written by: Courtney Murray

Get Your Ready with Me

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here’s something so special about the relationship with your girlfriends. It’s a sacred bond, an unspoken connection that links you together forever. So it makes sense you’d want to be surrounded by these faithful friends on one of the biggest days of your life — your wedding day. Many girls spend their whole lives planning their wedding, down to every meticulous detail, so when it’s time to ask the important women in your life to stand by your side you want to do it with flair. You’ve already said “yes” to a marriage proposal, now it’s time to pop the question to your bridesmaids. These are the women who have been with you through various stages of your life and now will be helping you plan and celebrate your wedding, while keeping you sane and hydrated with a steady flow of Champagne.

Gone are the days when you would casually ask your friends to be in your bridal party while shopping or out for coffee. As weddings have become increasingly elaborate over the years, so have the methods in which to ask your best friends to be your bridesmaids. The ideas are endless from unique gestures with DIY projects to festive and elaborate gift boxes. Pretty much anything can be monogrammed or personalized to make your gifts one of a kind. You can’t go wrong with personalized travel wine cups and a bottle of Champagne. You can even have custom labels made emblazoned with cute sayings like, “He popped the

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question, now let’s pop some bubbly! Will you be my bridesmaid?” Other personalized items could include jewelry that can then be worn at the wedding to coordinate with their dresses. If you’re a crafty gal, you can go the route of creating handmade tote bags with each girls’ name and fill them with fun little gifts and a sweet personal note letting them know how much they mean to you. If you don’t have a creative bone in your body don’t fret, sites like Etsy have countless creative options to help you out.

Saying "yes" to a bridesmaid proposal may seem like an easy answer, but it’s one that comes with a lot of responsibility. As a part of the “Bride Tribe” you are expected to help plan, fund, and attend all pre-wedding parties including a bridal shower and bachelorette party. In addition to attending all the parties, you will need to be there physically and emotionally to help with the wedding planning process as needed. You’ll be expected to buy a bridesmaid dress including all the accessories that go with it, down to the shoes. On the big day, a model bridesmaid will be present and available to help the bride with all tasks, big or small, and provide her with the best send off possible into married life. You can show up and follow every “rule” there is, have the perfect hair and makeup, make the most moving speech, and do all the right things. There are so many little ways you can be a stand-out bridesmaid, but the most important of all is to just be present and supportive and love your friend.

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Celebrating the Places and Faces of Fort Walton Beach

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Cover to revo C Who doesn’t love to curl up with a good book? They’re the perfect excuse to snuggle under your favorite blanket, sink into your favorite chair, or relax in your favorite nook, and get lost in a different world. We’re always up for a new adventure, so whether your genre of choice is romance, self-help, history, or mystery, this list has something for everyone. book picks by: Mary Aho / reviews by: Amazon.com

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The Unhoneymooners

Girls in White Dresses

by Christina Lauren

by Jennifer Close

Olive Torres is used to being the unlucky twin: from inexplicable mishaps to a recent layoff, her life seems to be almost comically jinxed. By contrast, her sister Ami is an eternal champion … she even managed to finance her entire wedding by winning a slew of contests. Unfortunately for Olive, the only thing worse than constant bad luck is having to spend the wedding day with the best man (and her nemesis), Ethan Thomas.

Isabella, Mary, and Lauren feel like everyone they know is getting married.

On Sunday after Sunday, at bridal shower after bridal shower, they coo over toasters, collect ribbons and wrapping paper, eat minuscule sandwiches and doll-sized cakes.

They wear pastel dresses and drink Champagne by the case, but amid the celebration these women have their own lives to contend with: Isabella is working at a mailing-list company, dizzy with the mixed signals of a boss who claims she’s on a diet but has Isabella file all morning if she forgets to bring her a chocolate muffin. Mary thinks she might cry with happiness when she finally meets a nice guy who loves his mother, only to realize he’ll never love Mary quite as much. And Lauren, a waitress at a Midtown bar, swears up and down she won’t fall for the sleazy bartender — a promise that his dirty blond curls and perfect vodka sodas make hard to keep.

Olive braces herself for wedding hell, determined to put on a brave face, but when the entire wedding party gets food poisoning, the only people who aren’t affected are Olive and Ethan. Suddenly there’s a free honeymoon up for grabs, and Olive will be damned if Ethan gets to enjoy paradise solo.

Agreeing to a temporary truce, the pair head for Maui.

After all, ten days of bliss is worth having to assume the role of loving newlyweds, right? But the weird thing is … Olive doesn’t mind playing pretend. In fact, the more she pretends to be the luckiest woman alive, the more it feels like she might be.

[Best Seller]

With a wry sense of humor, Jennifer Close brings us through those thrilling, bewildering, what-on-earth-am-I-going-todo-with-my-life years of early adulthood. These are the years when everyone else seems to have a plan, a great job, and an appropriate boyfriend, while Isabella has a blind date with a gay man, Mary has a crush on her boss, and Lauren has a goldfish named Willard. Through boozy family holidays and disastrous ski vacations, relationships lost to politics and relationships found in pet stores, Girls in White Dresses pulls us deep inside the circle of these friends, perfectly capturing the wild frustrations and soaring joys of modern life.

[Always A Bridesmaid]

30 Things I Love About Myself

by Radhika Sanghani Nina didn’t plan to spend her 30th birthday in jail, yet here she is in her pajamas, locked in a holding cell. There’s no Wi-Fi, no wine, no carbs — and no one to celebrate with.

Unfortunately, it gives Nina plenty of time to reflect on how screwed up her life is. She’s just broken up with her fiancé and now has to move back into her childhood home to live with her depressed older brother and their uptight, traditional Indian mother. Her career as a freelance journalist isn’t going in the direction she wants, and all her friends are too busy being successful to hang out with her.

Just as Nina falls into despair, a book lands in her cell: How to Fix Your Shitty Life by Loving Yourself. It must be destiny. With literally nothing left to lose, Nina makes a life-changing decision to embark on a self-love journey. By her next birthday, she’s going to find 30 things she loves about herself.

[Quick Read] 97

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The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love That Lasts

by Dr. Gary Chapman Falling in love is easy. Staying in love — that’s the challenge.

How can you keep your relationship fresh and growing amid the demands, conflicts, and just plain boredom of everyday life?

In the #1 New York Times’ international bestseller, The 5 Love Languages, you’ll discover the secret that has transformed millions of relationships worldwide.

Whether your relationship is flourishing or failing, Dr. Gary Chapman’s proven approach to showing and receiving love will help you experience deeper and richer levels of intimacy with your partner — starting today.

The 5 Love Languages is as practical as it is insightful.

Updated to reflect the complexities of relationships today, this new edition reveals intrinsic truths and applies relevant, actionable wisdom in ways that work.

[Self-Improvement]

The Mother-in-Law

by Sally Hepworth From the moment Lucy met her husband’s mother, she knew she wasn’t the wife Diana had envisioned for her perfect son. Exquisitely polite, friendly, and always generous, Diana nonetheless kept Lucy at arm’s length despite her desperate attempts to win her over.

And as a pillar in the community, an advocate for female refugees, and a woman happily married for decades, no one had a bad word to say about Diana … except Lucy.

That was five years ago.

Now, Diana is dead, a suicide note found near her body claiming that she longer wanted to live because of the cancer wreaking havoc inside her body.

But the autopsy finds no cancer.

It does find traces of poison, and evidence of suffocation.

Who could possibly want Diana dead? Why was her will changed at the eleventh hour to disinherit both of her children and their spouses? And what does it mean that Lucy isn’t exactly sad she’s gone?

Fractured relationships and deep family secrets grow more compelling with every page in this twisty, captivating new novel from Sally Hepworth.

[Book Club Worthy] www.ScarlettMag.com

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written by: Emily Brink photography by: Kristina Wright, for EAM Productions and Bookings, and Florida Gulf Beach Weddings

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ove is love is love, and we are so excited to celebrate all of it!

The relationship between Dana Kullman and Sarah Shigley was a product of the 2020 shutdown. Like so many others, they turned to online dating to find some source of connection and luckily for them, they found their forever match! It did not take these two very long to know that they were meant to be. Only six months into officially dating, after having a romantic date night out, they were finishing up the evening in their new home together. Dana had set up candles and flowers, poured some Champagne, and turned on the perfect playlist. They sat and talked as they put together a new puzzle. When they had finally pieced it together, the words read: “Will you marry me?” Then Dana proposed to Sarah. Nine months later, the two stood on a beach and made their commitment to each other official in the eyes of the law.

When it came to planning the wedding of their dreams, Dana and Sarah were pretty well matched throughout the process.

They had an equal share in planning, and the process felt really special because everything they wanted to do, they prepared for together. Of course, they had their own little surprises for each other, but in the end, they bore the load equally.

A destination wedding was something both women really wanted. They rented a beach house in Pensacola, Florida, which served as lodging for their families, as well as the venue for the reception. Dana and Sarah love the beach and wanted to plan their special day around that mutual love. Their ceremony took place on the beach just as the sun was setting, providing the perfect backdrop to the best day of their lives. The wedding colors were gray and sky blue, which blended in with the scenery beautifully. The attendees included 50 to 60 of their closest friends and family.

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Choosing the bridal party was an easy choice for Sarah and Dana. Sarah’s oldest daughter served as her Maid of Honor, and Dana’s son was her Man of Honor. Sarah’s close friend stood as her Matron of Honor, and Dana’s sister was her Matron of Honor. The rest of the party was filled in with other close friends. The roles of Flower Girl and Ring Bearer were fulfilled

by Sarah’s two youngest children. It was special to have all four of their children closely involved in the ceremony.

The ceremony was officiated by their good friend, Derek McWilliams. Dana and Sarah wrote their own vows to each other and exchanged rings. The ring Dana used to first propose to Sarah was a complete surprise, but when it came time to buy a ring for Dana, they chose a ring that matched nicely with Sarah’s. This became a symbol of their unity and endless commitment and love for each other. On the day of their wedding, Sarah also wore her grandmother’s ring, and Dana wore her grandmother’s brooch as special mementos for those women in their lives.

Seeing each other all dressed up for the first time was definitely one of the best parts of that day. Dana rocked a dress from Amazon, and Sarah stunned in a David’s Bridal gown.

Their favorite moment that day was when they got all of their children together and filled a family photo frame with sand from

the beach. It was a symbol of their families becoming one, and they love to remember that moment whenever they look at the frame. If these two brides had any bit of advice to share from their experience, it would be to take the help offered, you can’t do it all by yourself and keep your sanity. Take a breath and enjoy the day, it goes by fast. You blink and it’s the end of the night! Savor every memory.

Wedding Planner: Florida Gulf Beach Weddings Hair + Makeup: Bombshell Blowout Bar Cake: Sweet Lisa's Cakes Florals: Lavender Rose Farms

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| Welcome Home

Eat, Drink, and Be written by: Emily Brink

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here is a whole list of reasons why you should grow a little herb garden this summer. Think of it as your own little store that provides an endless supply of your favorite herbs and smells. You get to go outside your door and grab some fresh basil to add to your pasta, or you can add some fresh sage to your biscuits and gravy, or even some fresh mint to your tea. The pure convenience is reason enough, but the cuteness and sense of satisfaction is the thing that makes this a must. All a little herb garden really needs maintenance wise, is to be watered regularly. So set an alarm on your phone like you do with your birth control and grab that pitcher!

Herb gardens are so versatile, you can cater it to fit your unique lifestyle. Take a look at your space, get into design mode, and see what works for you. There are no restrictions other than sunlight and water. The best part of an herb garden is that herbs don’t need to be planted in the ground, which means even if you live in an apartment or do not have a yard to plant in you can still grow a beautiful herb garden. Herbs can grow hanging, in individual pots on a well-lighted window sill, in rectangular planters across your balcony, or in round planters beside the front door.

Get creative and have fun with it!

Next is deciding which herbs to grow. Taking inventory of the things you enjoy cooking will give you a good place to start. Do you cook a lot of Italian food? Try herbs like oregano, thyme, and sage. If you love Mexican food, cilantro is a must. Rosemary is great on potatoes, soups, and even makes a fancy garnish for your favorite cocktail. Figure out what that one thing in your cupboard is that you're always running out of and grow that.

Check the garden section of any store near you and they are sure to have little herb starts just waiting for you to take home. Most places will even have pots and dirt so you won’t have to make any extra stops.

Herb gardens are a great way to try something new this summer, even if you don’t have a green thumb.

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| Anything He Can Do...

Anything

Can Do...

Mary Averill AKA “Minister Mary” photography by: Shanna Magnuson

Hometown Ripley, TN Current Residence Laguna Beach, FL Occupation Wedding Officiant Special Skills In addition to being a wedding officiant, I am also a nurse.

I am a nurturer in every facet of my life!

How did you get interested in your occupation?

When I was a little girl, I was enamored by weddings.

When I got engaged to my husband, we were not attending any particular church so it was extremely difficult to find someone to officiate our wedding.

Although I was already ordained and performing weddings in Tennessee, my career took off when we moved here to the Emerald Coast. We are fortunate to live near the most beautiful beaches in the U.S., and I wanted to be that someone who couples could feel comfortable with when planning their weddings.

How long have you been practicing your trade?

I officiated weddings in Tennessee for two years before moving to Florida. I have been officiating weddings along the Emerald Coast for the past five.

Tell us a little about your favorite part of the job you do.

My couples are the best part of my job! Every couple becomes part of my heart. I keep in contact with most of them. They even send me pictures of their babies!

Working on the world’s most beautiful beaches is amazing too!

Let us in on the least favorite part of your job.

The least favorite part of my job is dealing with cranky people. I mean, we are handling such a joyful day! I make it my priority to bring peace and joy to what can sometimes be a stressful and overwhelming event. www.ScarlettMag.com

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What empowers you as a woman in a typically male industry?

Where I am from, female wedding officiants are almost unheard of. I know that I bring a “special sauce” to the table. I embrace that! The joy I feel when performing a wedding is contagious.

What advice do you have for other women interested in your trade?

Learn everything that you can. Invite another officiant to coffee and pick their brain. Know that even though it is 2022, there may be instances where couples prefer a male wedding officiant and be fine with that. You are not going to be for everyone.

Did/do you have any role models that inspired you to choose your line of work?

My number one role model from the beginning has been Tracy Brisson of Savannah Custom Weddings and Elopements. At a time when I had no clue that female wedding officiants existed, I read her blog, followed her online, and found out that exactly what I have dreamed of doing is possible.

How do you think diversity in the workplace helps shape our community?

Telle Whitney said, ‘Diversity drives innovation — when we limit who can contribute, we in turn limit what problems we can solve.’ With diversity, we see more viewpoints. It recognizes and honors what others bring to the table.

Since you’ve started, have you noticed a change in your industry when it comes to opportunities for women?

Since I have started, there has certainly been a shift in the wedding industry. I see more women-owned businesses than ever before! Plus, female wedding officiants are more widely accepted.

Words you live by…

‘God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her in the break of day.’ Psalm 46:5 And, ‘If you can’t find the sunshine, be the sunshine.’

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| Get the Look

the Weddings Saalt: Soft Menstrual Cup

Alex and Ani: ‘Bridesmaid’ Charm Bangle Party City: Champagne Confetti Popper

Williams Sonoma: Pastry Blender

Pottery Barn: Herb Garden Bed www.ScarlettMag.com

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