Scarlett | May+June 2021

May+June 2021

WEDDING We said “YAAAAS!”

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

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Where the South Comes for Smiles

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What’s Inside Features 17

WEDDING Fashion

Lifestyle

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A simple guide to understanding wedding guest attire.

Raise a glass to some amazing women in our community.

Get Ready with Me

Health Always a Bridesmaid

The Maid of Honor

Accepting the role of a bridesmaid wasn’t always all about party planning and keeping the bride calm. Learn about the history of the bride’s chosen bestie.

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Let’s Get Physical

Get ready for the rest of your life with David Shoults’ custom pre-wedding routine.

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

A Few Good Men

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

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Cover to Cover

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

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Ladies, we need to have the talk with Renew Aesthetics’ Dr. Danielle McGraw.

Boozy frozen POPtails. Just trust us on this one.

The Little Pink Pill

Home Decor Tour of Homes Pensacola

The Big Day

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79 Weddings

Heroines

Jessica Duncan knows all about how to find the perfect home for every couple.

Beauty 64

About Face

Get that wedding-day glow at Jo Rich Beauty Palafox Glamour Bar.

Happy Hour

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The Clique

Learn more about this issue’s group of remarkable women.

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The Sensual Side of Photography

Think the perfect gift for your better half doesn’t exist? Think again.

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Anything He Can Do...

We’re on the look out for strong, unique, independent women with typically male-dominated professions!

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May+June 2021

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Keep Pensacola Beautiful is commited to beautifying areas and maintaining what beauty already exists in the Pensacola area.

We love it, and we know you’ll love it too. Take a look at what we’ve chosen for this issue’s musthaves.

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

Be the Change

Wishlist Haul

Listen Up!

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| There’s Something About Mary

You Do You, Girl

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ove is in the air here at Scarlett. We have been working hard to bring you the first Wedding issue. My very own wedding anniversary is in May. I’ve spent a lot of time reflecting on my wedding day and there isn’t anything I would do differently. My husband and I were planning a big wedding and one Monday afternoon, I somewhat jokingly leaned over and said “hey, let’s get married this weekend.” We got married that Friday. There were 10 people at our wedding in my motherin-law’s backyard. It was simple and beautiful, and we had each other. Five years later, and we have had some of the happiest times, including the birth of both of our beautiful children.

In this issue, we featured four incredible weddings. I’d like to say a BIG thank you to all the brides who shared their big days with us. I would also like to thank all of the AMAZING photographers who captured these beautiful moments for the couples. They are all so outstanding and create such a beautiful story for us to be able to share with you.

Weddings are the perfect opportunity photography by: Steve Barber to create treasured memories and unique traditions. In the spirit of traditions, May 9 is Mother’s Day, and as I celebrate being a mom, I wanted to share “something about Mary.” I am named Mary after my mother, who is named Mary after her mother, and so on for eight generations. I, of course, carried on the tradition by naming my daughter Mary Scarlett, who also happens to be the Scarlett namesake. Sharing special things with the people you love is really what it’s all about, you might just start your own tradition!

Thank you all for continuing to read Scarlett. We love bringing you the latest in women’s fashion, beauty, home decor, lifestyle, and health. Because frankly, we know you give a damn.

Follow us on Instagram @scarlett.magazine and like us on Facebook at ScarlettMagazine.

Mary Aho Editor

www.ScarlettMag.com

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On the Cover

Do These Clothes Make Us Look Married?

We are smitten with our adorable cover couple, Bonnie and Ethan. The Websters’ big day was filled with love and happiness as they tied the knot. Bonnie Biggers married Ethan Webster in April 2021 and shared their beautiful day with us. We are so excited to let you in on all the love from the weddings in our very first wedding issue of Scarlett. All of our brides (and grooms) were breathtaking on their special day, and their stories are all uniquely wonderful!

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photography by: Ariel Cameron Photography couple: Bonnie + Ethan Webster location: Eden Gardens 13

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Who is Scarlett?

The Team

Steve Barber

Mary Aho

Publisher

Sheila MacDiarmid Graphic Designer

Jessica Graña

Editor

Kristin Frazier Copy Editor

Creative Director

Shanna Magnuson Lead Photographer

Mason Brunner Portrait 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 Mason Brunner, Portrait Photographer

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Harrison Barber, Distribution Emily Brink, Writer Jessica Duncan, Writer Courtney Murray, Writer Kay Phelan, Photographer Liesel Schmidt, Writer Kristina Wright, Photographer

Special Thanks Sunset Bay Cafe, Renew Aesthetics & Anti-Aging Clinic, Chelsea Fox, Izzy Torres

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always a B.2ridesmaid.5 written by: Courtney Murray / photography by: Shanna Magnuson

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houlder pads, fluffy tulle skirts, rainbow sherbet colors — these are just some of the images that come to mind when you think of an old-school bridesmaid. But long gone are the days of horrendous bridesmaid dresses; today’s bridesmaid is a new breed. She is chic, she is timeless, and she is modern — all at the same time. I’ve been asked to be a bridesmaid many times, it’s an honor and time that I treasure. Being a bridesmaid can be a lot of fun and also a major responsibility. From the moment you say yes your duties begin. There’s the parties to plan, the dresses to be fitted, the gifts, the errands to help with, and finally the wedding. The moment you stand by the side of one of your best friends and watch them marry the love of their life, is a moment you’ll never forget. You may think that it’s a lot of

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work, but today’s bridesmaid duties are very easy in comparison to those in the olden days. Back in Biblical times, bridesmaids weren’t friends or relatives, they were domestic workers that catered to the bride’s every need during the wedding day. Luckily today, they are chosen for their true friendship and relationship with the bride. If we were alive back in Roman times you might have been doing more than the Electric Slide, you might have been risking your life! In ancient Rome bridesmaids were tasked with protecting the bride from evil spirits and/or bandits. It was believed that bad spirits would descend upon weddings, so bridesmaids wore similar dresses to the bride to serve as a “decoy.” Now that’s a committed friend.

Thankfully today’s brides don’t have to put their friends’ lives on the line.

They also have way more flexibility as far as “rules” go. There’s no longer strict guidelines on dress colors. Modern bridal parties can be seen wearing elegant black gowns, and shockingly, even white! Traditionally bridesmaids would be all female. That “rule” no longer applies as well. As it should be, brides choose their wedding party based on relationships. If their bestie happens to rock a beard, then she can proudly ask him to be her man of honor.

The beginning of every wedding journey starts out with popping the BIG question. But a new trend continuing

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to be seen is bridesmaid proposal gifts. Inviting someone to be in your bridal crew is a big deal, so why not make asking them a special moment too? These gifts are both trendy, fun and show your gal pals how much you appreciate the time, money, and energy they are about to shell out for you over the following months. It might be a personalized bottle of bubbly, a sweet goodie box or maybe a cute bracelet.

Regardless of your budget, you’re sure to find the perfect gift if you scour the pages of Pinterest long enough.

So, now that you’ve said yes to be in the bridal party, the fun can begin!

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But it’s not all matching silk robes and sipping champagne while posing for the perfect, posed-but-not-posed group shot. To help keep your friend from becoming a real bridezilla you need to be there for her emotionally and offer to help delegate duties. You’re responsible for buying your own bridesmaid dress, shoes, and accessories on time.

Don’t be the one chick wearing the wrong heels in every photo. You’re expected to help plan and organize the many parties which might include an engagement party, a bridal shower, and a bachelorette party. Then, finally on the big day, it’s always proper etiquette to buy the couple a wedding gift. So be sure to check out their registry before you’re stuck buying one napkin ring and a soup ladle. On the actual wedding day your sole job is to be there for the bride for anything and everything she might need.

Keep her happy, hydrated, and calm. All of this might seem overwhelming, but at the end of the day your friend asked you to be a bridesmaid for a reason. So fingers crossed you get a cute dress and just be present and shower her with love.

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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 do that and more.

strong adventurous mothers daughters leaders bosses wives queens courageous loving fearless women

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| Heroines

Rachel Velasquez Marketing Supervisor with Warren Averett written by: Emily Brink photography by: Raphye Alexius Murphy

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rowing up with supportive parents who encouraged her to be a fiercely independent and “take-no-sh*t” female, this heroine, Rachel Velasquez, learned “it’s a lot of hard work to be yourself sometimes.” But, being herself has helped her grow by leaning into her own independence.

Rachel has lived in Niceville, Florida, since 2007 but is originally from Fayetteville, North Carolina. Upon graduating from the University of Florida, Rachel knew she “wanted to be in the thick of things.” She stayed involved with her sorority as an adviser and continues to take jobs that incorporate community involvement. So much of her life involves aspects of community and giving back.

Rachel has worked in marketing throughout the Niceville area for the past three years and currently boasts the title of Digital Media Manager for Emerald Grande as well as HarborWalk Village. Being a person who values building the best society, in the next five years, she plans to “get more directly involved in organizations such as the Children’s Advocacy Center,” as well as other projects put on by local chambers. Rachel tries to give back to the community through being environmentally friendly and supporting local businesses. She believes that “locals supporting each other is what got us through slower parts of 2020.”

As a leader in her circles, Rachel takes note from her own favorite leaders and always tries to lead by example. She hopes to guide others well enough for them to continue progressing after her mentorship, but she also tells herself, “Anything I can do to make the world a better place is a win in my book.” What a great outlook for anyone to have.

Some of these leaders Rachel has looked up to and tried to emulate have been strong females who surround her daily.

When prompted for specifics, Rachel named Brittany Byrd who is currently Rachel’s boss and “embodies all things badass working woman.” Another career influence is the lovely Shantelle Dedicke who works with the Frances Roy

Agency. Shantelle makes the best food that Rachel just loves, but in addition she manages to simply “do it all.”

There are career influences and there are life influences.

Rachel’s main influence since the very beginning is, of course, her mom.

Always trying to better herself and continue her learning, Rachel is currently putting herself through graduate school.

This feat was understandably named as the accomplishment she is proudest of. Reflecting on her past and the person she used to be, Rachel would tell her 20-year-old self, “Choose a job you love and know your worth because you spend more time at work than anywhere else. Also, keep a spare pair of flip flops in the car ALWAYS.” We are lucky to have women like Rachel as part of our community.

• Last Google Search: Thai Delights (It’s close to my office, and I love Thai food!)

• Currently Reading: “Quit Like a Woman” by Holly Whitaker • Favorite Ice Cream Flavor: Ben & Jerry’s Americone Dream • Hogwarts House: 100% Hufflepuff • Soundtrack to Your Life: “From Under the Cork Tree” by Fall Out Boy

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| Heroines

Madrina Ciano Co-Founder, Krewe of SWAT written by: Courtney Murray photography by: Deanie Sexton

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rom one beach oasis to another, Madrina Ciano is a generous woman who’s from Honolulu, Hawaii, and now resides in Gulf Breeze, Florida. Even as a child she felt a tug at her heart to help others, and the hard lessons she’s learned along the way motivated her to give back and create a brighter future.

As a licensed Medical Esthetician, Madrina has worn many hats over the years owning and operating various businesses in the area including a day spa, an anti-aging skincare center, and a retail clothing boutique. As a full-time community volunteer and a part-time “Marketing Maven” for The Jessica Duncan Team, Madrina has a deep desire to leave a long-lasting positive impact on her community and a legacy that her grandchildren can learn from and be proud of. In addition to her other endeavors, Madrina works alongside her husband as co-founders of a not-for-profit civic organization, Krewe of SWAT. The organization’s mission is to give back to the community and to inspire other civic groups to follow their example. “For many years to come, I plan to continue my role as a community servant who galvanizes others into community action,” said Madrina. “Nothing excites me more than when I introduce a friend to a particular charity and they fall in love and go ‘all in.’ They become engaged and active, and/or ultimately serve as an ambassador or trustee who helps further the mission for that charity.”

Madrina calls this the “trickle down Aloha effect.”

“My own life experience growing up was always a driving force for me to give back and help those in need, but I will also add that my mother was very charitable and engaged me in community service at a young age,”

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she described. “We would walk the streets of downtown Honolulu and Waikiki handing out food, blankets, and a message of hope. I remember being a preteen and praying with the homeless people we would interact with on the streets.” When she was awarded the Key Influencer Award, Madrina was granted a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to fly with the United States Navy Blue Angels in a F/A-18 Super Hornet jet and pull 6 gs. Talk about a thrill!

Madrina’s passion is to be an ambassador for her community, and she’s been lucky to have the guidance of other strong female influences like fellow board members at IMPACT 100 Pensacola Bay area, an all-women’s philanthropic organization. Madrina says her time in the group was life-changing and that she learned so much from working with the team of diverse, dynamic, educated, and accomplished women. Krewe of SWAT works to execute numerous, high-impact fundraisers throughout the year to benefit various charities. In late 2020 and early 2021 alone, the organization partnered with Habitat for Humanity to build a home and raised $11,350 for its Women Build initiative. They also hosted a “SWAT out Hunger” campaign for Manna Food Pantries which yielded 14,500 pounds of food for those experiencing food insecurity and a “Booty Duty” Diaper Drive which collected 20,000 diapers to donate to Gulf Coast Kid’s House. Most recently, they created and sold Covid Commemorative Pins that raised

• Last Google Search: My last Google search was for an upcoming trip home this fall. I looked up Kualoa Ranch in Hawaii, made famous as the backdrop for Jurassic Park.

• Dream Vacation: My dream vacation will always be the Hawaiian Islands first, then anywhere else warm and tropical. Bora Bora was breathtaking.

• Ultimate Guilty Pleasure: Desserts. Anyone who knows me, knows I love sweets. I am known for looking at the dessert menu first, this will drive my entrée decision.

• Soundtrack to Your Life: That would be a compilation of songs by my fave, Mary J. Blige- “The Living Proof,” “Stay Down,” “Just Fine,” “No More Drama,” and “Good Woman Down” just to name a few.

• Favorite Show to Binge Watch: “Real Housewives” of anywhere.

Their fashion is always forward and influential also.

$2,000 for FoodRaising Friends. Volunteering is such a huge part of Madrina’s life, and when she isn’t giving back she is soaking up time with her four grandchildren or enjoying the fabulous Florida life with her husband, Mark.

Madrina can sum up what all of her life experiences have taught her in the following: “Let go and let it flow. What flows, flows. What crashes, crashes. Chase nothing or no one but your own greatness.”

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| Heroines

Julie Porterfield

CEO of Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center written by: Emily Brink photography by: Kay Phelan

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ulie Porterfield was born in Mobile, Alabama, but because of her military father they moved around frequently. Currently Julie is living in Miramar Beach and working as the CEO of the Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center. She was given the opportunity to put her whole self into helping children who have been abused. This is the basis of everything she does.

This impressive title of CEO did not come easily. Prior to this position, Julie worked at the State Attorney’s office. She worked there for 17 years before she jumped on board with the Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center (ECCAC). Much of the development for the ECCAC was aided by the State Attorney’s office. At that time, Curtis Golden was the State Attorney and asked Julie personally to assist in any way possible. She had history and experience as a victim advocate and Administrator which gave her the ability to write grants and aid in organizational management, among other things. Before she knew it, Julie had multiple members of the board asking her to apply for the Executive Director position at ECCAC itself.

From there, the rest is history!

While it is hard to pin down a specific reason, Julie attributes much of her success to her relationship with God. Throughout the past seven years, she has really worked on this relationship and has seen many positive changes come from it. Besides that, Julie has always had a strong drive to succeed. The problem occurred because she was not quite sure where she was going.

This is where some amazing mentors came in to influence her in positive

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directions. People like Dick Schoditsch, Jim Murray, Jim Pierce, and Pat Franklin were a few of the influential people who have helped drive her to the success she achieved.

Julie’s mother, however, has been the biggest female influence in her life. Despite whatever was going on in Julie’s life, her mother was always there to love her unconditionally through the ups and downs.

This influence has helped Julie with her greatest accomplishment: her son. Mothering her son, Lee, and watching him grow into a fine independent young man is among her greatest accomplishments.

Moving forward, Julie plans to continue to make lives better for the victims of child abuse. She also plans to engage with other organizations to widen the positive impact they can achieve. Julie also has the opportunity to mentor other people and has seen them excel in any role they play in the organization. She has done her best to create a healthy environment where people can grow and learn to be the best person they can. She learns from her mentors just as much as they learn from her.

Looking back, something Julie would want to tell her 20-year-old self is to develop a personal relationship with God and rely and trust Him to guide her life. Julie Porterfield is a woman who knows what she wants and

• Go-to Cocktail: A glass of moscato • Currently Reading: “The Women of the Bible Speak” by Shannon Bream • Childhood Dream Job: Teacher • Favorite Ice Cream Flavor: Soft served vanilla • Dream Vacation: Anywhere with my husband!

has crafted a life that allows her to achieve her goals.

Clearly she is someone to watch and emulate.

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| Heroines

Nellie Bogar

Founder & CEO of Youth Village written by: Courtney Murray

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M

iss Nellie” to the Youth Village kids, but Nellie Bogar to everyone else, was born and raised in Newark, New Jersey, and moved to Bluewater Bay 30 years ago in 1991.

She is the happy, passionate, and joyful Founder and CEO of Youth Village. Youth Village started out in 1999 as an after-school program and summer camp for kids ages 10-17 with a grant from the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice. As time progressed, the department noticed that younger children were being left alone too often and getting into trouble at an earlier age, so Nellie and her team gradually adjusted their demographics to provide services to grades K-8.

Youth Village is a local, grassroots organization that believes in helping to support the entire family and not just the child. They passionately believe that it takes a village to raise a child — beginning with the parents and onto the teachers, the churches, and the community organizations.

We’re all in this together!

About 90% of the program children live in low-income, single-parent households and are regarded as “at-risk” or “underserved.” Nellie prefers to call these young citizens “untapped.” Untapped signifies the presence of undiscovered and invaluable sources of hidden or suppressed strength or knowledge.

Currently Youth Village is going even further. With the recent addition of their Youth Village Preschool Academy for 3 to5 year olds, they will expand the elementary and middle school programs. Now, the children are being exposed at an even younger age to academic fun-filled skills and positive life

photography by: Rhonda C. Schaefer

changes to help them develop social, emotional, and cognitive skills, like critical thinking and decision-making.

As a single mother of one grown daughter and one 5-year-old granddaughter, Nellie has always seen the potential of encouraging children to reach out and learn all that they can to become the best they can be. Her mother is her greatest inspiration and influence. Nellie’s father died in a drowning accident when she and her sister were 10 and 14 years old respectively. Their mother raised her daughters to become strong, independent leaders and never followers. They heard her loud and clear! The advice that Nellie would tell her 20-year-old self is the same advice that she gave her daughter and hopes to give her granddaughter one day as well. That is to “read and study EVERYTHING you can get your hands on and also to save some, spend some, and have some fun. Take what you do seriously, but NEVER take yourself too seriously. Learn how to laugh at yourself and keep moving forward.”

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Nellie’s daughter, Valerie, was one of the first five students at Youth Village back in 1999. As she grew and matured, Valerie became a volunteer, then a part-time employee, and now she is the Director of Youth Village as well as the Treasurer of the Board of Directors. Her 5-year-old daughter, Elizabeth, is now one of the students who will be a part of the first group of VPK (Voluntary Prekindergarten) students graduating in June of 2021.

One of Nellie’s proudest accomplishments happened in March of 2020 when she purchased a 5,000-squarefoot building located at 644 Anchors Street in Ft. Walton Beach, just a couple of days before quarantine! The building needed a lot of work, but they got it!! It is clear to see that Nellie leads her organization by being a shining example of hard work and good intentions.

• Dream Vacation: My idea of a dream vacation is to lie on a sandy white beach, gazing out over the bluest water ever, under a clear blue sky, drinking a vodka/cranberry cocktail…wait…that’s right here in Destin! Hahahahaha!

• Ultimate Guilty Pleasure: Chocolate!! It can be Amedei Porcelana, a dark EXPENSIVE chocolate made by the Amedei chocolatier of Tuscany, Italy (sure, in my dreams), or a handful of Hershey’s kisses…just give me some chocolate!

• Most Used Emojis: My three favorite emojis are a big red heart, a face laughing out loud with happy tears running down both sides of the face and praying hands. I pray to continue to have a big heart for people when they need it the most, a joyful, happy spirit and to keep praying without ceasing…. that’s my life!

• Favorite TV Show to Binge Watch: My favorite show to binge watch is Sex and the City…from beginning to end…these four ladies are fun!

• Last Google Search: I have to admit that I’m a Facebook/internet junkie! My last Google search was to find the “perfect” black dress.

Don’t get me wrong…I have black dresses, some lightweight wool, some silk, some linen, some short sleeves, some long sleeves, some no sleeves, some short, some long…but not one “perfect” black dress. Perhaps the perfect little black dress does not exist.

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| Heroines

Beth Clavier

Director of Events & Patron Services at Sinfonia Gulf Coast written by: Emily Brink photography by: Rhonda C. Schaefer Photography

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ot “Elizabeth” or “Bethany,” but “just Beth,” was born a true local at Eglin Air Force Base. She spent half her life in central Florida before moving abroad to open a multifaceted integrated entertainment resort in Singapore. Five years later, she decided to move back to Niceville and start her family. Becoming the woman Beth is today was not an easy process. In fact, she had quite a challenging childhood and was therefore forced to grow up faster than other girls her age. Certain circumstances led her to an early maturity and to develop into a brave and resilient little girl. That girl grew into the incredibly self-reliant and independent woman Beth is today.

In order to find an escape from some of the more difficult times in life, Beth found an outlet in volunteering. She loved being able to meet like-minded individuals who shared the same passions. It also helped she was “a bit of a nerd” so learning new things was always enjoyable. At 20, Beth moved to Orlando and got involved in theatre.

It was a great way to meet people in a city where she knew nobody. Those relationships are still alive today!

Volunteering has always been a big part of Beth’s life. She has worked with organizations like animal rescues, nature conservancy, LGBTQ, Habitat for Humanity, children’s groups, and several arts-related endeavors. She continues this pattern by working for Sinfonia Gulf Coast. They are deeply rooted in the community, and it is part of their mission to volunteer and contribute to those around them. She is so grateful for the amazing volunteers that help keep the organization moving forward. Throughout the next five years, Beth’s goal is to keep growing the organization to be able to serve even more children in the community and to provide top-notch entertainment to the region.

While Beth tries to be humble about her accomplishments, her time as a leader and mentor has been extremely influential. She has trained upwards of 1,700 people for management and job positions. Several of the people she trained were promoted almost immediately and continue to move on to bigger and better careers across the country. One of her most challenging roles was teaching Singporeans how to work in customer service. Beth enjoyed watching them grow as individuals and showing them the potential they held.

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Choosing a single female influence felt like a slight to the whole tribe of women who have helped shape her into the woman she is now. All of her mentors have made an impact because they cared, they led by example, were compassionate, and empathetic. Beth has always looked to her grandmother for her ingrained sense of family and nurturing, and to her mother for her unwavering strength and humor. One person Beth constantly looks to for advice is her brilliant wife. Beth appreciates the way she analyzes information, solves problems on the fly, and presents ideas in a different way. Beth has always wanted to have children so she definitely looks to these women to help her raise her beautiful daughter. She is so proud of being a mother and cites her daughter as the reason the sun sets and rises.

When Beth looks back at that 20-year-old girl moving to Orlando not knowing a single soul, she wished she could write herself a book of advice! The first sentence of the book would say, “Be confident in yourself but remain humble.” The middle would contain all kinds of good advice everyone secretly wants to know. And the final sentence would read, “Don’t be afraid to be authentically you. Let the path you choose be captained by your heart and you will arrive exactly where you were meant to be.”

• Last Google Search: “Montessori toys for 1 year olds.” Being a mom these days is tough y’all, the pressure is always on to make sure you are raising the most well adjusted, smartest, and healthiest of children. While that has always kind of been the case, now there’s an infinite amount of advice, devices, platforms and schools of thought and SOCIAL MEDIA outlets for every topic under the sun.

• Favorite Cocktail: Moscow mule in my copper mug labeled “Mom” • Ultimate Guilty Pleasure: My ultimate guilty pleasures are getting massages and fine dining. Like, the very FIRST thing I would do if I won the mega lottery would be to hire a personal masseuse and chef, STAT. • Favorite Disney Princess: My favorite Disney princess is not one at all really. I have always loved Alice for her whimsical and open mind, her intrepid spirit, and her kindness.

• Childhood Dream Job: As a child, my dream job was to be a midwife. I knew this when I was a little girl, and it would always shock people when I told them that at such a young age. I have always been obsessed with pregnancy and birth and read the entire “What to Expect When You’re Expecting” book when I was 9 and my mom was pregnant with my little brother.

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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, he is a leader but can also take direction. A good man is someone you can look up to.

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dependable fathers strong sons leaders brothers husbands courageous loving understanding fearless men

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| A Few Good Men

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Sid Williams-Heath

Executive Director of the Pensacola Little Theatre written by: Courtney Murray photography by: Dr. Nicklaus Heath

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id Williams-Heath hails from a small town in Mississippi named Philadelphia where his family owns a classic General Store which “National Geographic” touted “as a source of anything from needles to horse collars” and as the original Wal-Mart of its time. After leaving the family farm, Sid attended the University of Mississippi and ultimately lived in Savannah, Georgia, for a number of years before meeting his now-husband, Dr. NicklausHeath, while working in New York City. Giving back to the community he loves has always been an integral part of Sid’s life, and he proudly serves as the Executive Director of the Pensacola Cultural Center and Pensacola Little Theatre (PLT) downtown. “As a nonprofit community theatre and cultural hub, the theatre is where the bulk of my involvement lies,” he described. “We have nearly 1,000 volunteers each year who graciously donate more than 80,000 hours of volunteer service.” In addition to PLT, Sid is involved with the Association of Fundraising Professionals, American Association of Community Theatre, Leadership Pensacola, and serves on the board of the Stamped Film Festival. If that wasn’t enough to keep Sid busy, each morning before putting on his theatre hat, he works to transform people’s minds and bodies as an instructor at Ride Society on Palafox. Sid described, “As one to suffer from incredible FOMO (fear of losing out), I strive to attend every major community event, initiative, or fundraiser to see what new ways there are to get involved, even if not serving in a leadership position.”

Sid’s passion for the arts began at a very young age with involvement in the local community theatre and high school band. His calling to help showcase and support artists began with his career at the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD); advocating for the importance of arts and culture in higher education. After moving from NYC, the Cultural Center was a perfect fit for Sid and his lifelong goal to immerse himself in as much diverse culture as possible. Sid’s husband introduced him to PLT, having grown up within the very walls of the Cultural Center himself, and Sid credits him as the inspiration to get involved. “My family has also always strived to lead in service, and I can remember many a holiday season spent delivering turkeys around town with my mother to help spread a little holiday cheer,” described Sid. “My father’s steadfast ability to do more for others than himself has always inspired me to get involved however and whenever I could, and it’s that kind of humble upbringing that

transitions service from an obligation to an opportunity.”

Sid believes that authenticity is key and there is no timestamp on when self-discovery ends. “You’ll make a million mistakes along the way, but as long as you stay true to your moral compass, your truth, and aren’t afraid to be unapologetically you – your mistakes become more experience than failure,” described Sid. Over the years he learned to let go of who he thought he should be, which led him to becoming who he truly was. “I am so proud to lead an organization where you can attend the local LGBTQ Film Festival on Saturday night and then gather for worship on Sunday morning in the exact same space,” described Sid. “PLT has grown exponentially as a resource and center for the community to tell everyone’s story – no matter how you celebrate, love, vote, dress, look — regardless of where you come from.” Sid believes that our voices are loudest when we all speak in harmony to make large, effective change rather than individual, smaller change. He’s applied this belief to using their theatre voice to amplify the voices of other civic and nonprofit organizations outside of the arts realm. They’ve thought outside the box by hosting a pet adoption day during their production of CATS to help the Pensacola Humane Society, and they’ve collected winter wear for the children at Gulf Coast Kids’ House during the run of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.

Over the next five years Sid plans to grow the collaborative nature and resourcefulness throughout the Cultural Center with the help of a $100,000 branding grant for PLT from idgroup to create and execute a campaign to raise the funding needed to revitalize the Cultural Center.

They will expand their programs and offerings; from a permanent fine art gallery to a self-guided history tour throughout the building to an overhaul of the theatre space to restore its grandness. “The Cultural Center that we all know and love currently will soon grow from simply specific show times, arts education class times, and revolving community events to a sense of arrival to Pensacola at any hour of the day for any type of human to get their kick of culture,” described Sid. The work Sid has done is an inspiration to the community.

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| A Few Good Men

Stan Hall

Owner of Emerald Coast Motor Cars Destin written by: Emily Brink photography by: Shanna Magnuson

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ven though Stan Hall has been in the car business for 52 years and has a lot of experience under his belt, he still considers himself to be a “young 73 year old.” He was born in Thomaston, Georgia, but currently lives, works, and worships in Destin, Florida. Here in Destin, Stan has built a multi-million dollar concierge and pre-owned car dealership named Emerald Coast Motor Cars Destin. Stan’s service is definitely ahead of the game in the sense of the modern day delivery system. Customers specify the kind of car they want, then Stan and his team track it down and bring it right to their doorstep. Nobody can beat their service or their prices!

Stan and his team try to be very active in their community. A few of the organizations they support are Sinfonia Gulf Coast, Mattie Kelly Arts, Destin United Methodist Church, and Destin Chamber. Stan is actually an honorary member of the Highway Patrol in his hometown in Georgia! Stan and his wife, Bunny, have always reached out and supported organizations that were Christian-based.

Throughout the next five years, the two hope to be able to continue being able to support these organizations as well as find more philanthropic ventures to benefit.

While Stan has many accomplishments he is proud of, surviving cancer is among the top. In 2012, Stan beat throat cancer and is now nine years free of that terrible disease. That experience left him with a renewed faith

in the Lord who greatly helped his healing process. Stan is also extremely proud of his business and their unique business model. They are able to eliminate the hassles and frustrations that come with a traditional car-buying experience while still giving their customers a quality experience. With a no pressure and delivery method, they hope to make car buying fun and not a nightmare like car buying so often turns out to be!

Female influences are a core part to anyone’s being.

Bunny, Stan’s wife, is one of the most influential women in his life. She is an interior designer with Lovelace Interiors Destin. She successfully transforms hundreds of homes for her loyal customers here in Destin. Throughout her own career successes, Bunny still finds the ability to support and inspire Stan in his own business endeavors.

Looking back at his 20-year-old self, Stan would tell him to “be honest, have faith, and hard work never hurt anybody. Treat everyone the way [you] would like to be treated, and follow the Golden Rule.” Stan took this advice in his mentorship to his son, Chris, who has done incredibly well for himself and has followed in his father’s entrepreneurial footsteps. He runs his own landscape, hardscape, and exterior lighting business. Stan hopes to inspire his associate, Devon, to continue with car sales and other business start-up ideas. He has learned the ins and outs of car sales faster than anyone Stan has ever worked with. Stan is a Christ-centered man who will go out of his way to give back and make sure his community is profiting around him.

www.ScarlettMag.com

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A Few Good Men |

Christopher Saul

Chief Marketing Officer at Adams Sanitation written by: Courtney Murray photography by: Mary Aho

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hristopher Saul is a hard-working family man born in Dallas, Texas. Life moved him around a bit to Austin, Little Rock, and Atlanta before returning to Dallas where he attended Southern Methodist University. After university, Christopher landed his first TV news gig in Odessa, Texas, before moving to Fort Walton Beach to report for Channel Three (WEAR). It was along the shores of the beautiful Emerald Coast that fate stepped in and he met his amazing wife. The pair decided to settle down in

Niceville and were soon joined by their wonderful daughter who is now 1 year old. Christopher has learned a lot of hard lessons over the years, and if he could go back and talk to his 20-year-old self he would say that no one has the right to tell you what to do with your life. “Work hard to pursue your dreams and goals,” said Christopher.

“As long as what you are doing is moral, ethical, and allows you to provide for your family; do what makes you happy.” Along his career path, Christopher served three years as the Public Information Officer for Okaloosa County’s Board of County Commissioners. It was in this position that Christopher kept the public informed about the Board’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. After this role, he took a job as Chief Marketing Officer at Adams Sanitation, a regional, residential, and commercial waste disposal company that operates in the Northwest Florida region. Christopher recognizes that a leader functions best when they act as a collaborator who’s responsible for the final product or outcome instead of just a manager. He said, “I would like to think I did my best to empower people that I have led to work toward becoming their best selves — in every sense of the word.”

While he loves his job, if he could figure out a way for someone to pay for him to coach kids lacrosse, he would do that full time! Before the pandemic hit, Christopher was U-10 lacrosse coach for Niceville Lacrosse, and he hopes to be able to coach again when his daughter is of age to play. He thinks the sport is fun, but working with kids is the real reward. “They have an amazing sense of humor, kind spirits, and a competitive edge,” he described. “I also volunteered for Christ Our Redeemers Catechism program in the past and enjoyed looking into the deeper questions of life with high school students.”

Many people have contributed to shaping Christopher into the man he is today, but one of his biggest female influences would be his college journalism professors, Lucy Scott and Michele Houston. Michele motivated him and always believed in his abilities. Lucy taught Christopher to look out for others and how to stand up for himself, even when it’s hard. By far, marrying his wife is the best decision he’s ever made. “Her ability to empathize with others, see joy everywhere, do calculus (I can’t), serve people, and enjoy life are a constant inspiration to me,” described Christopher. “I’m a much better person for marrying her, if only because I have a front row seat to the example she sets for others.”

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www.ScarlettMag.com

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Wedding bells are ringing as we welcome the inaugural Wedding issue of Scarlett. We are happy to feature a handful of beautiful weddings from 2020-2021, all of which are different and stunning in their own ways.

From flower choices to wedding vows, we cover all of the details.

We wanted to bring you different weddings across the board. Our first couple, The Websters, had a traditional wedding outdoors in the beautiful Eden Gardens, a local favorite for a picture-perfect event.

Our next wedding is a home wedding.

The Freeman couple got married in the backyard of the bride’s childhood home.

The picturesque backyard made the perfect backdrop for their adorably quaint ceremony with family and friends.

Mr. & Mrs. White initially planned a big wedding but ended up having the tiny gathering of their dreams. With just eleven people attending, they said “I Do” on the happiest day of their lives.

Our final wedding was a tradition held near and dear to our hearts here on the Emerald Coast. A beautiful beach ceremony was held for the Carrera couple. The weather was perfect for the happy bride and groom on their special day. We hope you enjoy reading about each of these couples and their special day!

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EST. April 3, 2021

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written by: Emily Brink photography by: Ariel Cameron Photography

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his couple was destined for love from the very beginning. They set out to “love” the city of Atlanta during a week of service called “Love Atlanta” and they came home unable to stop thinking about the person they made peanut butter and jelly sandwiches with that day. Bonnie Carolyn Biggers and Ethan Scott Webster were introduced through a mutual friend and they spent the day in service and laughter. The joy they felt that day was palpable. Bonnie remembers going home that night and praying, “Lord, I would love to marry someone like Ethan.” Ironic right?

A few months later Bonnie found an excuse to see Ethan again — she was moving and Ethan had a truck! From then on, Ethan was asking, and Bonnie was saying yes. Dates to the fair, Superica, and simple movie nights with surprise “I love you’s” filled their next 10 months.

It was a stunning fall day in October when Ethan and Bonnie were planning on hiking in Unicoi State Park.

Ethan seemed extra careful and intentional about the plans for that day. Knowing the two had been to look at engagement rings a couple months back, Bonnie was alert and attentive to everything he was doing. After a day of hiking and sightseeing, the couple laid a blanket on the grass and enjoyed a picnic together. Finally easing Bonnie’s jitters, Ethan pulled out a book and handed it to her. Inside Ethan had journaled about every single date the two had been on. He added prayers and Bible verses he felt were meaningful and ended it with a list of reasons he wanted to marry Bonnie. She read most of the journal before he stood her up, knelt down, and asked her to marry him.

Absolutely yes!

When you know, you know, and the couple didn’t want to wait long to begin their journey together. Five months later, on Easter weekend, they were married. For a couple who puts God at the center of their lives, it just made sense to tie the knot during such a special time. Not to mention, nobody will ever forget their wedding date: 4/3/21. Under the “Wedding Tree” at Eden Gardens State Park, surrounded by a bridal party of 21 of their closest friends and family, and witnessed by the rest of their dear loved ones, Ethan and Bonnie were married by Bonnie’s childhood pastor.

Through a great effort from all of their friends and family, the reception came together magnificently. Filled with excellent food, delicious vanilla strawberry cake, and more happiness than they knew what to do with, the guests danced away the night, only stopping for the couple’s first dance to “Stand by Me” by Otis Redding. The Sandestin Resort provided the perfect background for the festivities as well as providing an environment for both families to

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intermingle and become one throughout the night. This was a really special and favorite part for the couple.

Ethan was the amazing fiance who stayed up late filling envelopes and reminding his bride to step back and appreciate the season they were in at that time. Ethan became Bonnie’s rock, always reminding her the reasons why they were getting married and to let the wedding planning fluff blow over. Wedding planning is stressful as most everyone knows, but Bonnie has some wonderful advice for the brides in the thick of it.

First off, use the resources you already have! Do you know someone who does calligraphy, who loves decorating, or enjoys executing instructions? Ask for help! Oftentimes friends are more than willing to go out of the way to help make your big day happen. Second, remember the “why” during the process. If you remember that, nothing else will matter. Third is to seriously consider premarital counseling. Learning to communicate and understand your partner will always be worthwhile. And Bonnie’s last bit of advice is for the wedding day — have fun and remember that no matter what happens, you’re going to be married at the end of the day!

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EST. June 13, 2020

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written by: Emily Brink photography by: Adam Brennan

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veryone likes a good hint of bourbon on occasion, but for one couple bourbon seems to show up throughout their relationship. Harrison Michael Freeman proposed to Elizabeth Addison Arnold on a crisp April day at Castle & Key Gin & Bourbon Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky, where his family and her family were enjoying a fun-filled weekend. It was so wonderful to have both families there that weekend to celebrate such a joyous occasion and to wish the couple well as their journey began.

This couple’s story officially started at the University of Alabama where a mutual friend set them up. On their first date, they enjoyed an entertaining Hibachi dinner at the Tuscaloosa restaurant, Kobe. They continued dating for the next 4 years, during which Harrison was the first to say “I love you.”

After the thoughtful engagement in Kentucky, Addison and Harrison spent the next 14 months planning a wedding day that would accurately reflect their love. On June 13, 2020, a group of about 30 close friends and family gathered in the Arnold backyard where Addison grew up.

The bridal party was carefully curated to include sisters (both blood and sorority), childhood best friends, and fraternity brothers. Addison’s youth pastor, Richard Greer, was asked to officiate the wedding which added an extra personal touch. Pink and white colors floated throughout the decorations and Kentucky Bourbon flowed freely. The couple ultimately wanted their guests to have fun and enjoy their time.

Shout out to Addison’s mother, Holly Arnold, who planned the entire wedding. It is definitely a relief to have someone to accurately execute your vision without adding

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extra stress onto the bride and groom. In keeping with the Bourbon theme, the couple chose a Bourbon-flavored cake with a delectable cream cheese icing. One special memento the couple had displayed that day was a custom Bourbon Barrel Top made at Castle & Key with their names engraved. It was even signed by the Castle & Key Master Distiller to make it extra special!

The most meaningful moments from the day included the intimacy in which the event took place. Local restrictions had forced this couple to downsize their guest list from 250 people to the much smaller number of 30 and to move the location from a country club to a backyard.

While this development was indeed heartbreaking, it also had some perks that allowed the experience to really warm their hearts. The intimacy and the ability to spend quality time with every single one of their guests was a favorite part of the wedding day for Harrison and Addison. Instead of having to run around and try to greet and say hello to all 250 people for just a couple minutes, they were able to have meaningful conversations with each guest.

As the couple’s anniversary approaches, the two get to remember their promises and important day by simply looking down at the rings they wear. The center stone in Addison’s engagement ring was passed down through Harrison’s family starting as far back as his maternal great grandmother. Whereas Harrison’s wedding band was passed to him by his mother’s father, the late Clyde Earnhardt. We are living for this beautiful significance and the endearing way Harrison and Addison’s wedding day was able to come together.

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EST. September 24, 2020

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written by: Emily Brink photography by: Jennifer G Photography

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ome years ago at a small Niceville middle school, Kristina Maria Himmelberg and Reed Grantham White were just two kids who went to the same school. Kristina and Reed continued to be friends as they attended the same high school and college. The year 2010 brought their first kiss, but the two did not start dating officially until 2016.

Only a month later, Kristina told Reed, “I know you love me, but it’s okay because I love you too,” which is probably the cutest “I love you” moment.

The next three years the two got to know each other as a partner as well as a friend. In 2019, they went on a trip to New Zealand. As avid hikers these two summited Mt. Cook, the highest peak in New Zealand at 12, 218 feet. Atop the snow-capped mountain, Reed asked Kristina to marry him. It was such a beautiful moment that helped propel them through the stress of wedding planning. Their engagement was only supposed to last eight months, but like many other couples, the two were forced to postpone their wedding.

Reed was especially passionate about not rescheduling the date, but in the end the venue closed for the month of April. They ended up tying the knot on Sept. 24, 2020, which pushed their engagement period to just more than a year.

Kristina and Reed were set on having their wedding at the beautiful Eden Gardens State Park with a twostory mansion as the backdrop and surrounded by stunning greenery.

Fitting this theme, the chosen colors were white and green allowing for an elegant bouquet with varieties of eucalyptus and blooming white roses. Kristina’s graceful and fitted dress flowed into a modest train and excellently accentuated her from top to bottom. When it came to Reed’s suit, the couple went for 51

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the resourceful option and used a suit he had already purchased as a groomsmen in a friend’s wedding. We love a thrifty and practical choice at weddings!

Uniting the Himmelberg and White families was the main goal of their ceremony. The ceremony was simple and focused on celebrating the love Reed and Kristina have for each other.

It was a small and intimate event with only 11 guests, including their 2-yearold nephew. David Wolff, Kristina’s godfather, officiated the ceremony.

The family dinner, which was held at a rented house in Inlet Beach, included a special place setting and picture to represent Reed’s mother who passed away in 2018.

Music can be a powerful bringer of emotions which would explain why the couple’s first dance was their favorite part of the wedding.

They both cried while dancing to the instrumental version of Beauty and the Beast.

In the months after the wedding, Kristina has continued her job as a Mental Health Therapist and Reed as an Engineer. They love looking back at their wedding photos and loving each other as spouses. Kristina’s best advice to engaged couples is, “Keep it simple — there is no reason to stress about one of the happiest experiences of your life.”

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EST. October 3, 2020

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written by: Courtney Murray photography by: Jessica Winkler Photography

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here is love, and then there are great love stories. Like the one of Jessika Raye Stamps and Izaak Carrera. The greatest relationships are ones based on friendship. This special pair met at church where their friendship began and then continued to flourish for the years to come. Izaak knew right away that Jessika was his forever partner, while Jessika took a little time to catch up. Over seven years they went on vacations together and road trips when one day Jessika realized that she was not only in love with him, she couldn’t stand to be a part from him. On a rainy day in March, Izaak made her Disney-princess dreams come true.

Surrounded by her family, he asked her to be his bride in a sweet and intimate proposal. “Beauty and the Beast has always been my favorite Disney movie, and I’m a huge Disney nerd, so if you can imagine the rose in Beauty and the Beast under the glass cover, he tried to recreate that,”

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she described. “He came out holding this glass with a rose and smoke inside and once the smoke cleared you could see the ring inside the rose. He got on one knee and opened the glass off the top of the rose and simply just asked me to marry him.” Izaak knew that Jessika’s favorite stone was aquamarine and that she wanted a unique style wedding ring so he picked out the perfect, one-of-a-kind ring for her. Before the wedding, Jessika had it soldered together with her wedding band and tucked it away in anticipation for the big day.

A few months later on Oct. 3, 2020, the couple was married on the stunning beach of Destin, Florida. Just like the proposal, they decided to have an intimate wedding celebrating the best day of their lives with their family.

Jessika had her sister standing by her side and her mother as the honorary ring bearer. The ceremony was performed

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in front of 15 loved ones and was officiated by one of Jessika’s close friends; making it special and personalized for the couple. The simple bohemian style in a dreamy palette of creams, mauves and soft lavender created a romantic backdrop for a wedding on a private beach in front of their rented beach house. “After the ceremony we had beautiful lights strung around this little area with some tables and gorgeous simple decorations on the table and enjoyed the reception at sunset and under the stars,” described Jessika. They danced together to "Getaway Car"

by Lea Michele as their first dance as husband and wife underneath the moonlit sky.

While Jessika was a laid-back bride who remained relaxed throughout the entire process, even the most chill bride needs a little help behind the scenes. Cedrian Greve did her beautiful makeup and her talented sister did touchups throughout the day when needed. Jessika did her own hair as well as for her mom and sister. SunQuest Beach Weddings played a major role in ensuring that the day went off without a hitch; especially their day-of coordinator, Sureya. Jessika worked with their florist to help design the flower bouquet that perfectly complemented the grooms’ blue suits, and her beautiful wedding dress from Bella Rose Bridal located in her hometown of Edmond, Oklahoma.

The vanilla naked-style cake matched the minimalist wedding vibe with just a touch of buttercream icing and coordinating fresh floral accents. The couple shares a lot of the same style and tastes so working together on the planning was fun and easy. “The best advice I could give to brides-to-be is just don’t worry, which sounds impossible,” said Jessika, “but everything will fall into place. Don’t worry too much about the guest list or decorations, just think about your family and your future spouse.” This advice is what created the intimate and unforgettable wedding day of Jessika and Izaak’s dreams.

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4/20/21 9:12 AM

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Let's Get Physical |

Sweating

W.2edding for the

with

David Shoults written by: Mary Aho / photograhy by: Mason Brunner

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Congratulations, you’re engaged! You’re starting to plan for your big day and your health is one of your concerns. You want to look and feel good on your wedding day and feel great for your honeymoon. It’s time to start thinking about how to reach your goals by the time you say “I Do.” First you need to set a goal for yourself. Figure out what you would like to accomplish before the wedding. That is going to look different for each bride. Remember, feeling good is just as important as looking good.

Each bride will have a different timeline for their wedding.

Whether you have a year or three months to prepare, set a routine to follow until your wedding day. After a few weeks, take time to self-reflect. Are you closer to the goals you set?

What changes have you made that are helping you reach your goals? Day-to-day life can affect your progress so it’s important to reset or adjust routines.

As you get closer to your wedding day and your final goal, it’s important to once again reevaluate your progress. At this point, you might need to increase your sessions and intensity level. Following a workout routine and eating a healthy diet can seem overwhelming. Especially on top of planning a wedding.

This workout routine was made with that in mind. This is a full-body, easy-to-follow workout to help you become your best self for your wedding day. This set can be done at home with zero equipment. However, weights can be added to increase your intensity. So, set your goals, and get to it. It’s time to start sweating for your wedding.

Lying Side Raises

Body Weight Plank

Set a Goal!

1 Year Out

Set a goal. You want to achieve something. Feeling good is just as important as looking good.

6 Months

With the goal in mind, reflect on where you are. Are you close to your goal? Or, are you still way off? Either way, the good news is you still have time! You might need to reset goals or adjust based on progress and life.

If needed, adjust the intensity of exercises or sessions per week.

Lying Glute Bridge

IT TAKES 12 WEEKS TO SEE CHANGE!

3 Months

You should be getting butterflies and getting close to your goal! Do you need to readjust? Up the intensity?

Up your sessions per week ?

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Monday + Friday 1 Warm Up - Lying Side Raises

Fire Hydrant

(2 sets x 50-100 reps) On left then right side. Yes, we are raising the legs, but we are really trying to squeeze and release the booty!

2 Body Weight Plank

(2 sets x 30-60 seconds) On elbows or hands, push belly button to the spine and squeeze the glutes.

3 Lying Glute Bridge

(4 sets x 15-20 reps) Lying flat on your back, bring your knees up to 90 degrees. By squeezing the glutes, lift the hips as high as you can off the ground.

Lying leg Lifts

4 Fire Hydrant

(3 sets x 15-20 reps) On your hands and knees, keeping back at 90 degrees, lift one leg an inch or so off the ground and raise the leg straight up to your side, squeezing the booty.

5 Lying Leg Lifts

(3 sets x 10-20 reps) Lying on your back, lift both legs up at the same time so your body creates a 90 degree angle.

6 Body Squats

Wide- (3 sets x 20 reps) Place feet 3-6 inches wider than shoulder width, toes facing out, squat down so the knees are almost to 90 degrees. (glute focus) Neutral- (3 sets x 20 reps) Place feet shoulder width apart, toes only slightly facing out, squat down until the knees are almost at 90 degrees. (overall leg focus) Close- (3 sets x 20 reps) Place feet 3-6 inches apart, toes pointed forward, squat down until the knees are right at 90 degrees. (quadricep focus)

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www.ScarlettMag.com

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Wednesday Cardio + Upper Body Side Shoulder Circles

(3 sets, 20 reps each set, 20 forward then 20 backward direction)

Front Shoulder Circles (3 x 20 each direction)

Jumping Jacks (3 x 50)

Seated Overhead Tricep Extensions (3 x 20-25)

Bedside push ups (3 x 20)

Shoulder Circles

Seated Overhead Tricep Extensions

Soup Can Biceps Curl

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Soup Can Biceps Curl

Bedside Push Ups www.ScarlettMag.com

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For more workout info, visit David Shoults at Destination Personal Training. Check him out on Instagram @davidshoults.pt or call 850-699-4138.

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G.3lamour G.5irl | About Face

written by: Liesel Schmidt / photography provided by: Jo Rich

“This has always been a dream of mine because I have a huge passion for making women feel beautiful and confident in their own skin, how ever that may be.”

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estled in amongst the shops and restaurants along Palafox Place, the glass doors leading into Jo Rich Beauty’s Palafox Glamour Bar are like the entrance into an absolute retreat — albeit one where there isn’t so much silence and calm as there is a complete feeling of pampering and luxuriating. Not to mention the fact that you’ll leave looking better than ever.

With an interior whose simplistic décor somehow adds to the aesthetic, Palafox Glamour Bar is a space that makes the most of its architectural integrity, capitalizing on the appeal of the exposed brick walls, high ceilings, and metal framing to create a raw canvas that needs only the barest hint of “zhooshing” — something that Jo Rich has down to a fine science.

Open since New Year’s Eve 2019, Palafox has the simplest concept a business can have: to make people feel good. “I really wanted to create a space that would bring together women of all walks of life — no matter their age, race, or place in life. We want them to all feel welcome and know that they have a safe space where they belong!” says owner and founder Jo, who has been in the industry for five years. “This has always been a dream of mine because I have a huge passion for making women feel beautiful and confident in their own skin, how ever that may be.”

Offering a wide variety of services and treatments, Palafox Glamour Bar is a onestop shop for all things beauty, including facials, waxing, filler injections, chemical peels, special event makeup, bridal makeup, special effects makeup, permanent makeup, lash applications and extensions, brows, and skincare. They also offer oneon-one consultations with their clients to determine their needs and what might best achieve their vision. Clearly, they leave no area left untouched, focusing on everything needed for you to look in the mirror and be stunned by the woman you

see looking back at you. And that pink neon sign on the wall that says “Treat Yo’Self” in script? That says it all.

Naturally, a large part of event makeup is tied up in weddings and all of the things that come with it such as engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, and the wedding day itself. All of those need your best look, and that’s precisely what Jo and her team offer. They also specialize in working with groups for private bridal parties, bachelorette spa parties, and girls’ night out parties.

They even travel to work with brides on-site. “Brides love working with us because they can tell that we genuinely care!” she says. “We don’t just do the bridal makeup and move on — we build a lasting relationship with them and be a part of their lives going forward. We love getting updates on our brides after the wedding, and we get a lot of the brides who come back and tell us about everything happening in their lives, like pregnancies, promotions, new jobs, new houses…That’s the best part!”

For Jo, the biggest reward from her work comes from the women themselves. “Seeing the look on a woman’s face when she is truly happy and feeling her best is indescribable, and that’s really what I love most about what I do.”

www.ScarlettMag.com

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Q: When should you book your wedding makeup?

A: At least six months out!

Q: Do I need to do a bridal trial?

A: We love knowing exactly what our brides want on their big day, and doing a trial a few weeks out so that we can perfect that look is a great idea, but it’s not necessary if you prefer not to.

Q: What should I expect from my team of makeup artists?

A: We will be at your venue 30 minutes prior to set up and will stay until every woman is finished and completely happy with her look!

Q: What do I need to do to prep my skin for my wedding?

A: We recommend also coming in for our bridal boot camp once a month for 6 months before the wedding for skin prep, maintenance, and facials! We can do amazing things with makeup, but our slogan has always been: “Your makeup game can’t be a 10 if your skincare game is a 2!”

Palafox Glamour Bar 126 Palafox Place, Pensacola 850.982.2545 www.JoRichBeauty.com

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T.2he Little Pink Pill.3 written by: Liesel Schmidt

icture this: The sun has just set, and there’s a blanket of stars overhead. Candles are everywhere, music is tinkling softly in the background, and the most handsome man you’ve ever seen is staring straight into your eyes. Before you know it, you’re intertwined in a passionate kiss, skin on skin, hands and arms and tongues exploring each other to find…Well, you get it. Feeling hot yet?

For countless women all over the country (and the world), even the most heightened situation results in a distressing lack of anything happening down there. Some lack any desire whatsoever, while others struggle to reach orgasm, making their sex life either extremely unsatisfying or even non-existent. After all, if you’re not feeling it, what’s the point?

Unfortunately, the “Not tonight, honey, I’ve got a headache” thing can only work so long before your guy will either start to get a complex or just decide to move on to someone who doesn’t have a rotating menu of excuses. It’s a tricky situation, but it’s also one that does have a safe, effective solution.

On the market since 2015, Addyi (flibanserin) is the first FDA-approved drug to treat HSDD (hypoactive sexual desire disorder) in women, making it a total game-changer for all the ladies whose sex drive has gone the way of the dodo bird. Developed by Sprout Pharmaceuticals, this little pink pill — yes, pink, because…well, pink is to the female population what Viagra is to men. Cue the throngs of angels singing.

“Addyi is the only treatment for HSDD that has successfully demonstrated that it adds more satisfying sexual events, increases desire for sex, and reduces distress from the loss of sexual desire in clinical trials,” explains Dr. Danielle McGraw of Renew Aesthetics & Anti-Aging Clinic in Fort Walton Beach, where she has been in practice since fall of 2019. “Addyi works on a woman’s brain to balance neurotransmitters and restore normal sexual desire. In addition to stimulating desire, it also helps with arousal and lubrication, and helps achieve more satisfaction through orgasm. We recommend it because it works! It’s also easy to refill, ships to your home, and has minimal side effects. Most of all, we support women getting it on!”

Sounds like a lot of upsides, yes? For premenopausal women who have no previous history of HSDD but currently experience low sexual desire no matter the type of sexual activity, the situation, or the sexual partner, it’s the answer to all their prayers. One more happy thought to leave you with: Depending on your insurance, Addyi may fall under your prescription coverage.

As with any prescription, however, there are a few caveats. For starters, all this troublingly low sexual desire can’t be the result of a medical or mental health problem, relationship issues, or the use of another medication or a drug.

Addyi (say it with me now, people: ADD-EE) may have minimal side effects, the most common of which include fatigue, nausea, sleepiness, difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep, dry mouth, and a drop in blood pressure. You’ll also need to consult with your doctor about any medical condition including liver problems, high blood pressure, pregnancy, breastfeeding, drug or alcohol use or abuse, and depression or mental health problems. Also discuss any medications you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Addyi can have interactions and cause a lack of effectiveness — either in the medication or in the effects of Addyi — or even cause serious side effects. “The most commonly taken prescriptions and supplements that should be avoided are CNS depressants including sedatives, tranquilizers, and hypnotics; PPIs for acid reflux; antifungals; digoxin; and St. John’s wort as well as grapefruit juice,” says Dr. McGraw. “It does interact with oral contraceptives, but it is a weak interaction — not one that would prohibit women using contraceptives from taking Addyi.”

And if you’re thinking about having a little bit of vino (or a lotta vino), you may want to rethink your priorities. Mind-blowing sex or bottle of red…Hmmm, decisions, decisions. Addyi interacts with alcohol, so wait to take the pill two hours after drinking one to two standard drinks (i.e., not the Big Gulp you call a wine glass). In cases where you’ve had three or more, skip your regularly programmed bedtime dose and resume the next night.

For more information about Addyi, call So, ladies…Ready to get it on?

Renew Aesthetics & Anti-Aging Clinic at (850) 503-1060, or visit www.Renew-AestheticsClinic.com.

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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 Guest List

by Lucy Foley The bride — the plus one — the best man — the wedding planner — the bridesmaid — the body.

On an island off the coast of Ireland, guests gather to celebrate two people joining their lives together as one. The groom: handsome and charming, a rising television star.

The bride: smart and ambitious, a magazine publisher. It’s a wedding for a magazine or for a celebrity: the designer dress, the remote location, the luxe party favors, the boutique whiskey. The cell phone service may be spotty and the waves may be rough, but every detail has been expertly planned and will be expertly executed.

But perfection is for plans, and people are all too human.

As the champagne is popped and the festivities begin, resentments and petty jealousies begin to mingle with the reminiscences and well wishes.

The groomsmen begin the drinking game from their school days. The bridesmaid not-so-accidentally ruins her dress. The bride’s oldest (male) friend gives an uncomfortably caring toast.

And then someone turns up dead. Who didn’t wish the happy couple well? And perhaps more important, why?

[Best Seller]

The Wedding Book: An Expert’s Guide to Planning Your Perfect Day — Your Way

by Mindy Weiss The Idea Book. The How-to Book. The Everything Book.

It’s the ultimate wedding planning bible from the ultimate wedding planner.

From getting engaged to getting to the altar to taking off for your honeymoon to preserving the memories forever, this is the book to help you bring your dream wedding to life, no matter how big or small your budget.

The Wedding Book is: • Your fashion consultant, menu planner, etiquette expert, and floral designer • An insider source for stretching budgets and negotiating contracts • A digital-savvy friend for making the most of Instagram, Etsy, Pinterest, and wedding planning websites and apps • A wise shoulder to lean on when sticky family issues come up Whatever the subject — cakes, stationery, dress shopping, lingerie, tents, Uber, insurance, porta-potties, party favors, the toasts, looking great in photos, tipping, and thank-you notes — The Wedding Book has the answer.

[Wedding Planning]

Honey Girl

by Morgan Rogers When becoming an adult means learning to love yourself first.

With her newly completed Ph.D. in astronomy in hand, 28-year-old Grace Porter goes on a girls’ trip to Vegas to celebrate. She’s a straight A, work-through-the-summer certified high achiever. She is not the kind of person who goes to Vegas and gets drunkenly married to a woman whose name she doesn’t know…until she does exactly that.

This one moment of departure from her stern ex-military father’s plans for her life has Grace wondering why she doesn’t feel more fulfilled from completing her degree. Staggering under the weight of her parent’s expectations, a struggling job market and feelings of burnout, Grace flees her home in Portland for a summer in New York with the wife she barely knows.

In New York, she’s able to ignore all the constant questions about her future plans and falls hard for her creative and beautiful wife, Yuki Yamamoto. But when reality comes crashing in, Grace must face what she’s been running from all along — the fears that make us human, the family scars that need to heal, and the longing for connection, especially when navigating the messiness of adulthood.

[Love Story]

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The Self-Love Experiment: Fifteen Principles for Becoming More Kind, Compassionate, and Accepting of Yourself

by Shannon Kaiser Put a stop to self-sabotage and overcome your fears so that you can gain the confidence you need to reach your goals and become your own best friend.

Too many people seem to believe that they are not allowed to put themselves first or go after their own dreams out of fear of being selfish or sacrificing others’ needs. The Self-Love Experiment rectifies this problem. Whether you want to achieve weight loss, land your dream job, find your soulmate, or get out of debt, it all comes back to self-love and accepting yourself first.

Shannon Kaiser learned the secrets to loving herself, finding purpose, and living a passion-filled life after recovering from eating disorders, drug addictions, corporate burnout, and depression.

Shannon walks you through her own personal experiment, a simple plan that compassionately guides you through the process of removing fear-based thoughts, so you can fall in love with life. If you want to change your outcome in life, you have to change your daily habits and perspective. Shannon takes you on this great journey into self-love and true self-acceptance.

[Self Help]

The Jetsetters

by Amanda Eyre Ward

[Summer Read]

When 70-year-old Charlotte Perkins submits a sexy essay to the Become a Jetsetter contest, she dreams of reuniting her estranged children: Lee, an almost-famous actress; Cord, a handsome Manhattan venture capitalist who can’t seem to find a partner; and Regan, a harried mother who took it all wrong when Charlotte bought her a Weight Watchers gift certificate for her birthday. Charlotte yearns for the years when her children were young, when she was a single mother who meant everything to them.

When she wins the contest, the family packs their baggage — both literal and figurative — and spends ten days traveling from sun-drenched Athens through glorious Rome to tapasladen Barcelona on an over-the-top cruise ship, the Splendido Marveloso. As lovers new and old join the adventure, longburied secrets are revealed and old wounds are reopened, forcing the Perkins family to confront the forces that drove them apart and the defining choices of their lives.

Can four lost adults find the peace they’ve been seeking by reconciling their childhood aches and coming back together?

In the vein of The Nest and The Vacationers, The Jetsetters is a delicious and intelligent novel about the courage it takes to reveal our true selves, the pleasures and perils of family, and how we navigate the seas of adulthood. www.ScarlettMag.com

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Read any good books lately?

If you’d like to recommend a book for review in Cover to Cover, send to Mary@ScarlettMag.com.

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| Happy Hour

Boozy Frozen written by: Courtney Murray

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othing says summertime like soaking in the sun while enjoying an ice cold popsicle. Everyone has that childhood memory of playing in the yard when suddenly, floating over the wind, you hear the melodious song of the ice cream truck playing in the distance. You run and beg your parents for money before taking off running barefoot down the sizzling sidewalk. You caught him, score! But now for the choices; push pops, bomb pops, fudge pops, how do you choose?!

I don’t think I can hear that ice cream truck song without feeling nostalgic and my mouth watering for a refreshing cold popsicle. Now the childhood treat has grown up and has a more sophisticated sibling — the boozy pop. Bars and parties have been picking up on this literally “cool” trend that’s gotten a 21-and-older upgrade. A trendy way to serve them is from a cute cart, upside down in a decorative glass with garnishes. The possibilities are endless on flavors and presentation so there’s plenty of room to get creative.

If you’re getting married in a warm destination or during the spring or summer months, boozy popsicles could be an unexpected twist at cocktail hour. Wow your guests with these potent treats and make them truly one of a kind with a cute signature name for your pops. These frozen treats are a triple threat — enjoy an alcoholic beverage, cool off, and look trendy while doing it. To make them even more chic, you can personalize the sticks with your wedding date, your initials, or a sentimental quote. There are companies that can create any flavor you could imagine, or you can go the DIY route. For each ice pop, combine half a shot of your choice of alcohol and half a cup of your favorite juice into a popsicle mold. Some popular choices are limeade and tequila, mango and rum, or strawberry lemonade and vodka for frozen twists on some of your favorite classic cocktails. For added flair and aesthetic appeal you can freeze in some berries, fresh mint or rosemary, or even edible flowers. Forget the basic happy hour, you’ll have your guests snapping all the Instagram-worthy pics with your trendy POPtails. These frozen concoctions would be amazing at a bachelorette party, a pool party, served on a cart by the beach, or an anniversary or engagement party.

www.ScarlettMag.com

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Strawberry Mojito Ingredients ½ cup rum ¾ cup chopped strawberries 2 cups limeade 4 oz fresh lime juice 8 mint leaves, chopped

Directions: Mix all ingredients together then evenly divide mixture into popsicle molds. Chill popsicle molds in freezer for about 20 to 30 minutes or until liquid is slightly frozen. Add wooden popsicle sticks and freeze overnight. (Makes 6 pops). Sit back, relax, and enjoy your frozen POPtail!

Berry Vodka and Rosemary Ingredients 1 cup raspberries ½ cup blueberries ½ cup blackberries Juice of 2 lemons 1 cup simple syrup 1 cup vodka 2 cups ginger ale 8 sprigs rosemary

Directions: Place the berries in a large bowl and muddle together. Add lemon juice, simple syrup, vodka, and mix well.

Pour in ginger ale and mix until the bubbles are gone. Place a sprig of rosemary in each pop mold and pour in cocktail mixture. Freeze for at least 8 hours. (Makes 8 pops).

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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...

Leighann Elliott

Dr. Alison Colonna

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s a new mom herself, White-Wilson Medical Center’s Dr. Alison Colonna knows the importance of a trusting relationship between pediatricians and families. With first-hand experience of the learning curve that comes with raising an infant, she appreciates how essential it is to choose a pediatrician who will provide education and guidance so that new parents better understand their child’s health. Dr. Colonna strives not only to offer excellent care when her patients are sick, but also to closely monitor their growth and development, making sure they are on the right track.

Dr. Colonna’s passion for educating others began in childhood and only grew as she started her health care career. She earned her medical degree from the University of Kentucky College of Medicine in Lexington and then went on to complete her pediatric internship and residency at the University of Michigan’s C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital in Ann Arbor. Following her residency, Dr. Colonna continued her time at the hospital as a clinical instructor, during which she spent her days caring for her young patients and providing education to the program’s medical students.

Dr. Colonna specializes in the care of children aged 0–18 and has a special interest in newborn care. She knows that each child is unique and works to tailor the care she provides in a way that is best suited for the child and their family.

White-Wilson Pediatric Clinic

850.863.8203 • www.White-Wilson.com 1005 Mar Walt Drive, Fort Walton Beach

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eighann Elliot was born and raised in Roswell, Georgia. She grew up in a large family with lots of love and excitement.

Leighann’s passion for serving others and need for travel and adventure fueled her interest in hospitality. She majored in hospitality management at Auburn University and graduated in 2017. War Eagle!! Leighann relocated to the beautiful Emerald Coast right after graduation to pursue her career goals in event coordinating and management.

Leighann and business partner, Haley Poveda, launched RaeBird Events in October 2020. RaeBird is a full-service wedding and events planning company. When Leighann isn’t planning weddings and events for RaeBird, she works as the Event and Marketing Manager for The Village of Baytowne Wharf. She has been with Baytowne since 2017. Leighann has worked in the hospitality and events industry for over a decade, and lives for the whirlwind and excitement of an event day.

Leighann is a Young Ambassador Board Member of the Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center and also serves on the social committee. When Leighann isn’t busy planning events, she loves a good brunch spent with friends. You can also find her soaking up the sun on our beautiful beaches when the sun is out.

RaeBird Events

770.296.7072 • www.RaeBirdEvents.com info@raebirdevents.com 75

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The Clique Carmen Konert

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armen Konert wears many hats (all fabulous). Originally from Philadelphia, Carmen has lived all over the United States but has made Florida her home for the past five years. She is a single mom to her son, Knox. Most recently, Carmen became the new Chief Development Officer for the largest title insurance company on the Panhandle, Setco Services. Carmen brings 20 years of experience in management, training, and executive leadership to Setco Services, LLC. Previously, Carmen was the Vice President of Program Development at United Networks of America where she led strategic development, resourcing, expansion, and orchestrated customer relations.

Carmen also plays a huge role in the community. She is involved with the Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center along with her son, Knox. She is involved with Sandcastle Kids and has partnered with Smile Train for more than 15 years. Carmen has traveled the world from Israel and Dubai to her favorite West Indies Island, Saint Barthelemy. She and Knox enjoy hiking together. Carmen enjoys modern architecture, has an appreciation for food, and considers herself a chocolate connoisseur.

Setco Services

850.650.6161 • www.SetcoServices.com 12815 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Miramar Beach

Denise Song

Renee Launiere

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n life, we all face choices. For Renee Launiere that choice was to pursue her love for art or go the more traditional route. She ultimately chose a degree in business, but what she didn’t know was that she was setting herself up to live her dream later in life.

After 15 years of 80-hour-work weeks in the pharmaceutical industry, Renee finally quit to chase her dream of designing her own line of fine jewelry. She took her life savings, 401k and then some, and took a chance that would change her life. Bijoux De Mer was born. The name, meaning “jewel of the sea,” means a lot to Renee as she draws most of her inspiration from the ocean. Renee says, “The colors, the warmth of the sun, the wonderful feeling of a day on the beach, all feed my inspiration for my designs.”

Right away she was accepted into some of the biggest shows in the business from Las Vegas to New York. For eight years she has been selling her pieces to fine jewelry stores across the county as well as internationally.

Since 2016, She has called Destin home, where she has set up her base store.

Bijoux De Mer

850.830.5465 • www.BijouxDeMer.com 4495 Furling Ln #170, Destin

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ative Floridian Denise Song was born in St. Petersburg, Florida, and raised in Fort Walton Beach. She lived in central Florida for more than 20 years and just over five years ago returned to the Panhandle to be closer to her father.

Denise is the Assistant Executive Director at the Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge.

However, she has worked in the notfor-profit sector for more than 20 years.

Originally in advertising, Denise says moving to the not-for-profit industry is one of the best things she has ever done. From grant writing to donor development, she loves partnering with community businesses and leaders, helping an organization develop and retain relationships that are beneficial to both parties. Denise has worked with several organizations across Florida such as Keep Brevard Beautiful, PAWS, The American Cancer Society, AMIKids of Melbourne, and Habitat for Humanity of Walton County just to name a few.

Denise is devoted to her community and proud to serve on the boards of several local organizations. Currently Denise happily serves on the NWF Chapter of the Florida Public Relations Association, Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation, and Trees On The Coast.

When not working you can find Denise spending time with friends, out on the water, or traveling.

Go Noles!

Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge

850.684.1485 • 3051 Cloptons Cir, Navarre www.EmeraldCoastWildlifeRefuge.org

www.ScarlettMag.com

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Kelly Webb

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elly Webb first came to the beautiful Emerald Coast 37 years ago. This beautiful area sparked her passion for real estate 33 years ago when she bought her first home. In 2005, she began her professional career in real estate. She holds a strong background in new construction and interior design. She has been involved with several new communities working with developers from the ground up. Kelly has been able to sell entire communities of newly built homes before moving on to new projects. She currently works at RidgeWalk at Santa Rosa Beach by Randy Wise Homes. She enjoys new home sales immensely, has a passion for new construction, and is very comfortable in the new home construction process. She has built an expansive support team, all with a wealth of experience working in our area. Kelly knows that real estate is an ever changing market so she makes it her mission to stay current and educated on all the nuances of the market and lending.

Philosophy: The key to success is building long-term relationships. “I want my buyers and sellers to feel like they are a part of my family!” When Kelly is not working, she loves to spend time with her family and friends.

RidgeWalk at Santa Rosa Beach 850-450-6429 • www.RidgeWalkFL.com RidgeWalk Circle, Santa Rosa Beach

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 standout 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!

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charF.3LUTE.4rie

| Foodie

article + photography by: Mary Aho

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hile charcuterie continues to take the world by storm, it can feel a little redundant. While a traditional charcuterie board is defined as “an assortment of meats, cheeses, artisan breads, olives, fruit, and nuts, all artfully arranged on a serving board,” we are taking that lightly and giving our own interpretation of the meaning. How can we make it unique?

What can I do to get the “Insta-worthy” photo? We are here to help with new ideas, tips and tricks, and styling suggestions to make the cutest charcuterie board.

Individual servings are all the rage right now. We wanted to do something that could be held easily and tie into our wedding theme, making the perfect reception hors d’oeuvres. While these are called charFLUTErie, don’t be afraid to use different glasses to mix and match to fit your style and food choices. This version is shown in a stemmed coupe glass as well as in a highball glass.

When building in a glass, it's all about placement and creating those layers. First, add a solid base at the bottom — we added nuts. Then the meats and cheeses can be added. We finished the glasses with delicate fruit and chocolates that can’t hold the weight of the other toppings. Breadsticks were added for height and crunch, but you could also add crackers for some added variety and texture.

Charcuterie boards don’t have to be expensive to be a showstopper. You can create a beautiful spread with these simple and easy to execute suggestions. Create your own wedding charFLUTErie glass and tag us on social media using the hashtag #ScarlettCharcuterie.

www.ScarlettMag.com

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Tour of Homes Pensacola |

Farmhouse Modern

article + photography by: Jessica Duncan, Better Homes And Gardens Real Estate Main Street Properties

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hen Stuart and Holly Wilson decided to custom design and build their next home, the modern-day farmhouse was exactly what they had in mind. The vision was to have a place that the family could gather and make memories, where the focus would be on simply enjoying life with their three beautiful daughters. Of course, they wanted to take advantage of modern-day technologies and building materials to make the home as maintenance-free as possible, to allow more time for the important things.

On the exterior, the balance starts with simplistic white accents with dark-framed windows, gutters, and roof. The straight lines of the exterior invite you to wander upon the large covered front and rear porches that have faint, blue-painted cedar ceilings. Bluepainted porch ceilings are an early 19th century trend that was believed to ward off evil spirits and keep the insects away. It was later discovered that it was not the color blue, but the lye used in the paint that repelled bugs. Either way, it represents times of past. The ground cover in the floral beds is made from recycled tires that last three times as long as wood chips and don’t attract unwanted guests. Off the back of the house, a heated and chilled swimming pool with two sun shelves is surrounded by a huge paver patio area.

Natural rough-cut wood and open rafters create a stately outdoor cooking and seating area for birthday parties and backyard BBQs. 79

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Inside, the traditional farmhouse style is apparent with wide plank wood floors and shiplap walls in the spacious layout. The kitchen features state-ofthe-art appliances to reduce time when preparing meals and provide time for breaking bread together. Can you imagine what the ladies in the early 19th century would say about a dishwasher, an under-counter ice maker, and an indrawer microwave? Rest assured, they would find style in the large front apron sink, open shelves and white cabinets from their era. The walk-in pantry’s antique door and the mantels in both the kitchen and living room are the perfect white oak accents throughout the main living area. Holly brought a modern style to the bathrooms by tiling the entire wall and having the fixtures pour from the wall instead of being mounted on top of the counters. Not only does this add style, but cleaning is a breeze. No splashes of water on the sheetrock or fighting to clean behind the hot and cold knobs. This is a perfect idea, and I’m sure we will see it more! The 10-inch baseboards, extra-wide crown molding, and encased windows merge perfectly with the electric blinds controlled by a state-of-the-art home automation system. From a phone or tablet they can adjust the air conditioning, light the fire, dim the lights, close the front gate, and start playing music.

As I sat and gazed onto the field of grass and mature oak trees with the sun setting over the lake, it was easy to remember the simple things in life are the most important. The love and peace you feel from being able to truly relax around the people who love you the most is the spirit this modern farmhouse-style home brings. The Wilsons’ vision helped build a home that is perfectly balanced between tradition and modern ease: A home that will help balance life.

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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 twelve 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 IMPACT 100 Pensacola Bay Area, an all-women philanthropic organization.

1313 Creighton Rd Pensacola, 32504 850.554.1783 If you’d like to recommend a home to be featured, email Jessica at Jessica@JessicaLoveDuncan.com. www.ScarlettMag.com

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written by: Emily Brink photography by: Shanna Magnuson

T

he past year and a half picked us up, turned us upside down, and shook us about. It changed everything, but especially weddings. With limited gatherings and travel restrictions many brides could not have the big wedding they always planned. Some even ended up pushing their date back multiple times in the hope regulations would be lifted.

This is when eloping and intimate ceremonies come in handy! These smaller events check so many of the current needs in our ever-changing world and make life so much easier regardless. Less people? Check. Personally tailored?

Check. Social distancing? Check. Perfect location? Check.

Budget friendly? CHECK! These types of weddings really become a breath of fresh air in times of turbulence.

Having an intimate ceremony or an elopement allows couples to get creative with their wedding day. The possibilities are endless! Where do you want to get married — church, backyard, beach, mountains, desert, grandma’s living room? Guess what? You can do it! That is the beauty of an intimate wedding, less people to plan for, which means more time to plan what YOU want. The guest list is one of the hardest parts but think about who you want to see the moment after kissing your husband for the very first time — parents, best friends, children, nobody? You get to choose! Want to be married in the mountains, but you are living by the beach? Road trip! An elopementstyle wedding allows you to cultivate the exact day you desire without the pressure of societal norms or pressing traditions that feel outdated.

Breaking from tradition is scary, but it is basically what we collectively have had to do the past year. This is why elopements are the way to go because nothing about them is traditional. You get to customize every step of the way.

Maybe the idea of sitting down with all the extended family you haven’t seen since great-grandma’s funeral and hearing about second cousin Bobby’s third ex-wife is your

kind of fun. But let me tell you, if that isn’t your scene, a carefully cultivated intimate ceremony could be perfect for getting rid of those awkward moments everyone dreads. Or perhaps the idea of everyone standing watching your brand new husband get under your dress feels like something they did in the 1950s when women were still treated like property. Trust me, we get it! Out with the old and in with the new. PLEASE! Now we might as well get to the nitty gritty about one of the best parts of having a much smaller ceremony: cost!

A large-scale wedding costs thousands and thousands of dollars that many people just do not feel comfortable spending. When you cut down the amount of people invited to your wedding, you also cut down on possible lodging costs, food needed, drinks served, tables and chairs to set up, space needed, and party favors to hand out. Not to mention the amount of emotional drainage that comes from a long day of entertaining guests and making small talk about “what happens next?” and fielding questions like, “when are you planning on having kids?”

Everything considered, many brides are glad their plans got turned upside down because it allowed them to have a day that perfectly captured who they were as a couple.

Spending thousands of dollars on a day you probably won’t remember much of anyway is OUT! Instead, planning something small that you are going to cherish all your life with people who really matter is IN! Engaged? Dating?

Dreaming? Plan an elopement or intimate wedding ceremony. It is 2021, you deserve it!

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The S.3ensual S.3ide of P.2hotography

written by: Liesel Schmidt photography by: Shanna Magnuson XX

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B

y definition, boudoir photography is an intimate form of professional photography featuring the subject wearing revealing clothing. For women especially, it can be an empowering experience, one that gives them a greater sense of confidence in their bodies. It’s also a great way to reignite the romance into a relationship and remind someone just how sexy you can be. “Most often, my clients are women looking to feel empowered again after becoming mothers.

They no longer have time to pamper themselves or really spend any time on themselves,” says Shanna Magnuson, owner of Davista Photography. A professional photographer for more than a decade, she began focusing on women’s portraits and boudoir six years ago. “The portraits make a wonderful gift for a groom or are a great marker for a change in life — for example, as a show of empowerment after a divorce.”

There are, of course, a few other reasons to book a boudoir photography session, the most important one being the fact that they celebrate the woman in front of the camera — YOU. They give you the opportunity to create some amazing photographs that show off just how vibrant and fabulous you really

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are. It’s easy to get caught up with work and life and forget all that, so taking time out for a shoot that pretty much bares it all and taps into your more sensual side is a great way to remember what makes you so damn hot. Or even show you a side of yourself you didn’t know existed. Plus, there’s the fact that it gives you a perfectly valid excuse to go lingerie shopping (and who doesn’t love that?).

Despite the fact that you’re almost in your birthday suit, there are still a few things that every client should bring to their boudoir shoot. “I’ve created a “How-To” guide for each of my clients to help them feel best prepared with prep tips, five day-of tips, advice on where to shop, and what to shop for. But, I’d say that five things overall is to find a bodysuit — I love them on all shapes and sizes — a variety of outfits including something a bit out of your comfort zone, jewelry, a few pairs of cute heels, and an open mind to get some fun, creative photographs!” says Shanna.

Less common perhaps than glamour photography, boudoir photography could really be considered a sub-genre of the former. And while some may consider it to be a bit controversial, it’s also a lot more fun. To dig in deeper on the differences, glamour is about making images that may be shared and seen by many people. Subjects are fully clothed, and wardrobe and styling are important. There is also a great deal of eye contact with the camera. Boudoir photography, by contrast, is an approach to creating portraits that are more personal, more sensual, more suggestive, more mysterious, and more alluring than typical portraits. The audience for the photos is also typically smaller — like, you and whomever you’re giving them to.

Aside from the obvious, the reason for their popularity is simple. “Within the last ten years, boudoir photography has become more popular as women have wanted a little bit of that sass and attitude back,” explains Shanna. “We like feeling like the strong women we are, and we see literally thousands of images online daily; so seeing ourselves in the same way is a great reminder that we’ve

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got it, too — even on days when we’re just running around in our messy buns and sweatpants.”

Naturally, all photographers differ in their favorite poses to shoot. “One of my favorites when I take the session to the beach or outside is having the women I shoot stretched out with their back arched,” says Shanna of her personal preference. “It’s a great pose for all women, in whatever outfits they may be wearing, and they bring their own sass to the pose.”

Often, the photos are given as gifts, though Shanna doesn’t believe that an actual occasion be necessary for the giving.

“It’s always a great time, especially when you want some fabulous art for your home!” she says. “The most popular occasions, however, are as a groom’s gift, for Valentine’s, or as a Christmas present.”

While cost varies depending on many factors including the experience of the photographer and geographic location, there are a few things one can bank on. “For my shoots, I include hair and makeup in each session; so along with the session, I suggest going on a hot date after. The total cost runs anywhere from $450 to $1,200,” says Shanna. “I’ve seen both less as well as more, so I always suggest finding who you love and their style rather than determining your choice based on cost.”

For more information on Davista Photography, call 507.319.8393 or visit davistaphotography.com.

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T.2he S.3ongbird.6 written by: Liesel Schmidt / photography by: JC Photography

I

t’s no secret that music is something that touches the soul, reaching into the heart and evoking feelings, memories, thoughts, and emotions like nothing else. And while the music industry is largely an adult’s world, there are countless young musicians and singers who blow us all away with their incredible talent.

A lover of music since she was a toddler, if you ask 14-yearold Olivia Nagy how long she’s been singing, she won’t be able to pinpoint a time when it started. It’s just always been there, a part of her life that seems as natural as breathing. But looking back from where she is now, it’s amazing to see how far she’s come from her days of singing in the preschool choir.

While other kids her age were casting about with dreams of being ballerinas and astronauts, by the age of 10, Olivia knew she wanted to make singing her career. “My aunt and uncle are both musicians; and I told my parents that I wanted to be on stage with them,” says Olivia. “On a whim, they invited me up to sing a song. I couldn’t accompany myself at the time, so my aunt Jenna played while I sang. I was confident and felt comfortable, and l knew by the audience’s reaction afterwards that I could really make something of myself with singing!”

Now 14, Olivia has done some pretty impressive things as she pursues her goal of becoming a singer and actress. “My hope is to sing in big arenas on world tours,” she says, going on to describe her proudest moments so far: singing the National Anthem at the Concerts in the Park series on Panama City Beach as well as performing for a full house after a dance recital at the Marina Civic Center. “I also love being able to tell people at school that I have a real job, with paid gigs, or when strangers come up to me after a performance and tell me that I am talented and that they enjoy listening to me,” says Olivia. In addition, the community-minded teenager organized a fundraiser after Hurricane Michael, hosted at a local restaurant and featuring a group of young musicians. The event raised more than $5,000 for the Gulf Coast Children’s Advocacy Center. In her free time, Olivia serves on the Junior Board for local nonprofit Many Mini Musicians.

Greatly influenced by Taylor Swift, she also credits her father for encouraging her singing. “My dad sings and plays guitar as a hobby. He’s a high school teacher and has taught guitar as a course, and he is also the one who taught me how to play guitar. He’s supported me this entire time with my dreams,” says Olivia, who plays guitar and ukulele and is in the process of learning bass. As far as her style is concerned, she says, “I love all types of music and perform whatever I personally like — which is all over the place in terms of style and genre. I do like classic rock and acoustic remakes, and people say that I have an old soul. When I write my own music, I feel like it’s maybe folk-pop or indie.”

As young as she may be, Olivia has a mature perspective on life — and on dreams, especially for other young aspiring singers. “It’s important to work hard and not let fear get in the way of the dreams you have for yourself. Don’t allow people to tell you that you’re too young or don’t have the right look — or whatever they may say that’s negative. If music is truly your passion, find a way to make it a part of your life.”

Follow Olivia Nagy on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/OliviaNagyMusic. www.ScarlettMag.com

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YAAAS girl, you know you want it!

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Sunset Shoes

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Bijoux de Mer Necklace

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The large chalcedony drop is framed in 18k gold, and has a removable enhancer.

Maxine Orange

Live Wedding Painting www.MaxineOrange.com This painting was created live at a wedding. The style is contemporary & abstract, but the energy and the details are clear.

Whether it’s a solo portrait of the bride, a special moment of the bride and groom, or with bridesmaids, this perfectly imperfect abstract painting will capture one of your favorite moments from your most special day in Maxine’s unique textured style. This is a thoughtful alternative to the standard print on canvas, a unique memento, respectfully honoring the promise of partnership, and love forever. www.ScarlettMag.com

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Level 10 Salon

Destin Commons Oribe - Gold Lust All Over Oil www.Facebook.com/Level-10-Salon

This luxuriously light oil absorbs instantly to restore hair to its prime. Infused with a rich blend of jasmine, edelweiss flower, lychee, sandalwood, cassis, bergamot and argan extracts, each protective drop penetrates the hair to deeply condition, strengthen and smooth — imparting intense nourishment and incredible shine. Works wonders on dry, damaged and color-treated hair…liquid gold.

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KULA 5, a new cooler that combines the best parts of a cooler with a five-gallon bucket. The KULA cooler is a tool for your life. Use it as a cooler, seat, bait well, rod holder, cast net holder, equipment storage, or just about anything that you can do with a five-gallon bucket. The KULA 5 is the ultimate attachment for any BOTE board.

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Blue Spero

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Dreaming of the prettiest vacation this Monday? We have the perfect dress to wear on your next getaway. Detailed with spaghetti straps, ruffle hem, and subtle floral print. Pair this item with a good pair of flats or some nude heels for a complete look!

Mark and Graham Ice Bucket

www.MarkAndGraham.com Keep wine and champagne chilled and on display with this vintage-inspired Ice Bucket. Handcrafted from stainless steel with a silver or gold plated finish, this timeless design features beautiful stamped detailing and an engraved monogram for a special touch. The perfect engagement, wedding or host gift for all the wine lovers in your life.

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Scan the QR Code to start listening to Scarlett’s curated May + June 2021 issue playlist.

How Deep Is Your Love - Bee Gees The Way You Look Tonight - Frank Sinatra Is This Love - Corinne Bailey Rae You’re My Best Friend - Queen When We’re 80 - Thomas Rhett Crazy For You - Adele Dancing in the Moonlight - King Harvest At Last - Etta James Crazy Love - Van Morrison Grow Old with You - Adam Sandler What A Wonderful World - Louis Armstrong Can’t Help Falling in Love - Haley Reinhart Wedding Bell Blues - The 5th Dimension Lover - Taylor Swift L-O-V-E - Nat King Cole www.ScarlettMag.com

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Be the Change |

It’s a Beautiful City written by: Liesel Schmidt / photography provided by: Keep Pensacola Beautiful

W

e’ve all seen it: parts of the city that seem to have fallen by the wayside, lost amidst the detritus and refuse to cause a blight on the rest of the community. It’s all over the country — all over the world, really — but there are cities committed to beautifying those areas and maintaining what beauty already exists.

That has been the mission of Keep Pensacola Beautiful since 1979, when it was originally founded as a nonprofit organization called the Pensacola-Escambia Clean Community Commission. Created by a group of citizens concerned about the growing problem of litter and blight on their fair city, the organization actively fought to change the issue, later amending the name to Clean and Green and officially becoming an affiliate of Keep America Beautiful in 1995. In 2012, the name changed to align with the national organization and became Keep Pensacola Beautiful.

“Our mission is to provide education and resources for sustained community improvement; and through our mission, we focus on issues surrounding litter, sustainable living, and community beautification,” explains Executive Director Sigrid Solgard. “The conditions of our neighborhoods and communities play a huge part in social, environmental, and economic aspects of our daily lives — whether we are aware of the impacts or not. And while many people have more immediate concerns than how much litter is on their street, the residual effects are detrimental and can accumulate over time. Organizations like KPB bring attention to the importance of environmental sustainability and all of the ways that being conscious of our environmental impact can have a positive impact on our lives.”

Even in the midst of a pandemic, the organization has never lost sight of the importance of their work. And that work has made a huge change. In 2019, KPB received the Innovation Award from Keep America Beautiful for their event, Pieces Adrift Art Show & Auction, as well as the Outstanding Communication/Social Media Award 99

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July+August 21

from Keep Florida Beautiful in 2020. “We made tremendous progress in 2020, with 186,242 pounds of trash collected and properly disposed of from trash cans at county park and boat ramps; 2,157 pounds of recycling collected; 1,865 pounds of litter removed from community spaces by volunteers; 1,077 community volunteer hours completed by 366 volunteers; 275 pounds of electronic waste diverted from the landfill and properly disposed of; and 103 students served,” Sigrid enumerates.

As much as they do, KPB naturally faces challenges — most notably in gaining more awareness within Escambia County for the programs and initiatives they offer year-round. “We have grown by leaps and bounds over the past five years and have gained a solid presence within the community, but we still have a long way to go,” Sigrid notes. “Growing our funding to meet our growing demand is always a challenge, as well. We have a dedicated and motivated staff, but we operate above maximum capacity at all times. Through growing our supporter base, we can greatly increase our reach and impact in Escambia County.”

As KPB moves forward in beautifying the city, they welcome involvement in their efforts from the public. During the months of March, April, and May is an initiative known as the Great American Cleanup, featuring several high-impact events.

March focuses on community cleanups called Clean Your Block parties to do litter pickups and light landscaping. April focuses on hard-to-recycle items, with several plastic bag swaps to trade for a free reusable tote bag that will encourage the use of reusable bags. May focuses on beautification with graffiti removal through an event called Paint Your Heart Out. Also on the calendar is the fourth annual Pieces Adrift Art Show and Auction on Sept. 18, 2021.

For more information on volunteering, donations, and artist participation, visit www.KeepPensacolaBeautiful.org or www.Facebook.com/KeepPensacolaBeautiful.

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written by: Liesel Schmidt

I

f you’re like most breathing Americans, you’ve been invited to a wedding, or 12, in your lifetime.

You know the drill: The march up the aisle in the poofy white dress that cost WAY too much, the vows that half the time get forgotten and the other half just plain ignored, the pronouncement of being married, the walk back down the aisle. Then the monstrously expensive party where half the attendees get tanked and embarrass themselves (and the bride or groom, for either knowing them or being related to them) and the rubber chicken dinner that gets choked down before it’s time to cut the cake. Followed, of course, by the send-off to the honeymoon, and then … back to reality.

In the past century, weddings have become less about meaning and more about the show.

Who can have the best Instagram story? Who can outdo their friends with ... well, everything?

So what’s the deal? Is it all really necessary? And really, is marriage itself even necessary? With divorce numbers skyrocketing and the number of unmarried couples in cohabitation also on the rise, have we proven that marriage is an archaic institution?

Well, if you’re on the fence about the whole deal, we’ve got some pros and cons to consider.

Cons: It’s a bit old-fashioned

Or a lot old-fashioned. And, as much as we love a good tradition, there are some things about marriage that aren’t necessary anymore. For instance, proving that you love one another and want to spend the rest of your lives together. That’s still possible without the legally binding contract of marriage — you just have to be committed to seeing your relationship through for the long haul. Also, we’ve come a long way from the days when marriage was needed to legitimize children and establish property rights.

Have you seen the cost of weddings?

Being realistic, unless you decide to DIY the you-know-what out of your wedding, it’s going to cost a LOT. You’ve already taken a big step in deciding that you’re going to get married, but now you have all those other decisions to make — most of which will obscure the true meaning in all of this. On top of that, the financial strain of a wedding is enough to make anyone question the whole thing.

It’s FOREVER

Well, maybe not, with the proliferation of divorce lawyers.

Divorce is messy, even if you don’t have kids. An amicable divorce is basically an urban legend, so think about that long and hard when you think maybe you can live with all the things that drive you crazy now.

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The divorce rate is HIGH

Going back to that whole point of marriage being forever. When it’s not, it’s something that affects more than just the couple going through the divorce. It affects the kids (if there are any) as well as family members. As you probably know from experience, seeing the aftershock of a divorce skews your view of marriage and makes you wonder if forever is even possible — especially when so many marriages fail.

Commitment-phobes beware

Marriage means one person, every day for the rest of your lives.

Think you can handle that?

It might change your relationship

You may have a perfect arrangement as is, but marriage might change that, so take that into consideration.

Now that we’ve bombarded your brain with the cons, let’s see the pros.

Pros: You have someone to put on your medical forms/contact for emergencies

You know that ICE (in case of emergency) thing on your phone?

That’s a big deal, but it’s an even bigger deal to have someone you know you can count on for emergency situations especially someone who loves you and knows your wishes.

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It makes your relationship more “legitimate”

While YOU may consider your relationship completely valid and 100% legit, other people give far more credence to marriage.

Your significant other may not be welcomed into your family until you’ve married, either.

It’s got financial perks

You may have heard this already, but you’ll actually get insurance and tax breaks if you marry. Romantic much? Maybe not, but if you listen to the tiny sensible accountant on your shoulder, you might consider the validity of getting hitched.

It shows how serious you are

You’re probably too old for the girlfriend/boyfriend thing, and knowing how to label each other can get tricky — especially years into your completely committed, 1,000% monogamous relationship. Husband and wife? THAT shows people you’re all in.

Planning the big day can be fun

As stressful as wedding planning can be, it can also be wildly fun.

Think about it: A great big party, all about YOU.

You just don’t have a reason not to

If you love each other and there really are no obstacles, no legitimate reasons keeping you from doing it — then why not?

Now for a little bit of history on the whole shebang. There are so many traditions for marriage, we could spend all day downloading them all, so we’ll just give you a few.

The Veil

In the days when arranged marriages were common, veils were meant to hide the bride’s identity until her face was revealed to her groom at the ceremony. Especially in ancient Rome and Greece, veils were employed for trickery — most especially for tricking evil spirits. Interestingly enough, in some cultures a veil was also a bridal accessory favored by fathers who wanted

tricks to be played on the groom. Daughters being presented in marriage who might have been considered “less attractive” were given an advantage by having their faces concealed until the vows were exchanged and the no-return policy was in place.

The White Dress

While not every bride these days wants to wear a veil, most still opt to wear white. But white hasn’t always been the color de rigueur of the bride. In fact, before Queen Victoria married Prince Albert in the mid-19th century, brides wore red. When the cross-over to white happened, the color was chosen not so much for its association with purity but because it signified wealth.

Wedding Rings

Wedding rings are another tradition not to be overlooked.

Long ago, a bride’s wedding ring signified ownership. And, in the cultures of ancient Rome, Greece, and even Judaism, rings were used as a method of payment to the father of the bride in exchange for his daughter. As the women’s rights movement took shape, grooms got in on the exchange as well. The whole “payment” thing though has fallen by the wayside — as has the representation of ownership. The wedding ring’s placement on the fourth finger of the left hand is tied to the ancient belief that this particular finger connected to a specific vein that is now called the vena amoris, which was once thought to supply blood directly to the heart.

The First Kiss

Once you’ve said your I do’s and exchanged your shiny new bands, you’re probably planning to share your very first smoochie-smooch as a married couple. In early times, that first kiss was actually a whole chain of events, as it was in fact the priest who planted the first kiss — on the groom. This holy “kiss of peace” was forthwith passed on to the bride, all of which was supposed to bestow the church’s blessing on the marriage.

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Things have clearly changed a lot in the tradition department. They’ve also changed a lot as far as the actual reason for marriage goes. In ancient (and even not so ancient) times, the main goal of marriage was to create an alliance between families.

Throughout history — and this still happens today in some cultures — families arranged marriages for couples. That meant that most couples didn't marry for love but for economic and cultural advantages. The bride and groom didn't have much say in the decision then — and still sometimes don't today.

Fortunately, love is usually at the heart of the decision for modern marriages, and the couples involved have all the power in the arrangement. They decide whether or not to even go through with it, making the choice completely voluntary. True, some couples are all logic when it comes to the agreement of getting hitched, but it’s still their decision.

That said, more and more people are “opting out” of marriage altogether. In fact, research has shown that a quarter of millennials will never get married. Barely more than half of all U.S. adults live with a spouse, and marriage is down by almost half a million annually as compared to the ’80s. That’s a lot of people saying, “I don’t.”

So what’s the reason for all this? Actually, there are a few. For one, with all the dating apps flooding us with choices, we’re overloaded with options that make us feel like we might be missing out on something if we make a choice on just one person.

Then, there are career goals. Both in the female and male population people are focusing more on their careers than starting a family, and sometimes it just never happens. There are also religious factors at play — fewer people feel confined by the dictates of religion and are freer to just bypass the whole institution of marriage in favor of cohabitation. Then there’s student debt, which can make the cost of a wedding seem either impossible or altogether unnecessary. Even the cultural shift in women’s rights and equal pay for women have caused a change in marriage numbers because women have the option to make more choices about who — or if — to marry.

What’s the alternative? Well, cohabitation is becoming more and more common.

That means, of course, that you’re living like a married couple without the legal formalities of marriage. You sleep in the same bed, share the same house, shoulder the responsibilities of the household together. And, if you decide your relationship is no longer working for you? You split, free of legal intervention.

Want something a little more formal without the set-in-stone foreverness of traditional marriage? States such as Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, New Hampshire, South Carolina, Texas, and Utah legally allow common law marriage, and there are a few others that do, as well but only in cases where the marriage was created before a certain date. All 50 states, however, must recognize common law marriages that were formed in a state where they are legal. Still, the number of states that allow common law marriage keeps decreasing, as those states realize that common law marriage often causes more problems than it avoids.

Clearly, marriage isn’t the only option for committed couples anymore. But is it right for you? Only you and your partner can decide that for yourselves. Hopefully, we’ve given you enough information to help you make an informed decision.

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Works of Clay written by: Liesel Schmidt / photography provided by: Clay 30A

F

“But now, O Lord, You are our Father, We are the clay, and You our potter; and all of us are the work of Your hand.”

– Isaiah 64:8

or Jason and Anna-Lisa Daniel those are more than just some nicely chosen words on their website. Those are the God-breathed words laid on AnnaLisa’s heart in 2011, the raison d’etre for everything they had gone through since the economic downturn and Deepwater Horizon — the loss of Jason’s previous business venture as well as the property it sat on — the heartbreak that comes from loss. But, all of it was settled, all of it was given a sense of peace in those words. When the property became available again, Anna-Lisa had the inspiration and blessing to start afresh and plant new seeds in what was once scorched earth.

Named “Clay” for the very verse that inspired it all, the new business was built on what Jason had started before — a garden and nursery. Adding AnnaLisa’s experience in design and merchandising, it was expanded to create a unique place that would attract a wide variety of clientele. “It’s a little oasis in the middle of 30A, and there’s no other place like it,” says Jason, who graduated from the University of Georgia with a degree in horticulture and moved to Santa Rosa Beach to begin a landscaping company in the early ’90s. Around the same time, Anna-Lisa graduated with a degree in interiors from Auburn University and moved to Sandestin to begin her career. It wasn’t until 1999, however, that each met their soulmate in one another.

Clay flourished over the next eight years, offering a vast array of plants, herbs, flowers, shrubs, trees, and grasses in the nursery as well as gifts and décor in the shop — everything from beautiful clay and terracotta pots from around the world to teak outdoor furniture. “The gift shop really is geared toward the

garden,” explains Jason, who grew up in Athens, Georgia, and spent much of his childhood in his grandparents’ small garden. “We try to find unique items that not everyone else has, and we do everything we can to tie it all back to the garden. The candle scents, the outdoor décor, all of it is either evocative of the outdoors or can be used in an outdoor living space and garden. The nursery is unique because we have a wide variety of plants. We’re one of the few places you can come to buy a container, get knowledge of what needs to go in the container, have the container planted, and then have it delivered.”

Their exceptional customer service, their deep knowledge of plants, and their unique offerings have all made Clay a destination for locals and visitors alike — most of them becoming repeat customers who

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come back year after year. With such success, they soon found themselves outgrowing the location. Then, in 2019, they were given the answer to a prayer they hadn’t even known they’d been praying: They found partners to help them grow the business.

They’d met Robin and Greg Crouch sometime before through their church groups and had become close friends. It seemed natural, with Greg’s background in marketing and advertising and Robin’s interior design background, that the couple would complement Jason and AnnaLisa. It’s clear from their easy manner with one another and their obvious rapport that this is a partnership that goes far deeper than just business with the two couples. “We were fortunate to find people who were like-minded spiritually as well as in business and in tastes. It was all God’s doing,” says Jason.

“They weren’t actively looking for partners,” adds Robin, a SCAD graduate who previously worked for

an architectural firm and cabinet design company before joining Anna-Lisa in the shop side of the business — though the mother of three has also begun taking on some business responsibilities such as bookkeeping to help Jason and Anna-Lisa in their need to expand their business. “The theme of the story is how God’s hand has been in it from the very beginning, and we’ve become like family.”

Greg’s involvement has naturally used his marketing brain and business experience. For the past 15 years, he has been CEO of the Pepsi-Cola Bottling Company of Luverne in south Alabama. “Clay is a new challenge and a new chapter for me,” says Greg. “It has brought me back into marketing and advertising, but it has allowed me to use my experience running and growing a business, as well. It has also given me the opportunity to work in our local community.” In addition to new projects at Clay, Greg and Jason have also spent a lot of their time over the past year in North Carolina, working on a second business in the partnership that the Daniels have owned for 13 years: a snow tubing and outdoor center outside of Highlands called the Scaly Mountain Outdoor Center, soon to be renamed Highlands Outpost. Going back and forth from the beach to the mountains has made for an adventurous start to a new relationship that only God could have orchestrated.

With new projects and expansion in the works in this, the second year of their partnership, the two couples are looking forward to all the ways that they can bless the community — and in that, they will surely be blessed themselves.

Clay Garden & Gifts, LLC, is located at 4808 East Scenic Hwy 30A, Seagrove Beach. For more information, call (850) 231-2150 or visit www.Clay30A.com.

photography by: Shanna Magnuson XX

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| Get Ready with Me

Get W.3edding Ready with me

written by: Courtney Murray

M

ermaid, A-line, backless, strapless, lace, sequins, satin — the options for a wedding dress are literally endless. So it’s a natural progression that the options for wedding guest attire have exponentially grown over the years. You walk out to the mailbox where you find a large, crisp envelope with beautiful handwritten calligraphy scrolled across the front. A wedding invitation. Yet upon opening the stunning stationery you’re left feeling confused by the wedding dress code. It can be like deciphering Morse Code between figuring out what is semi-formal, cocktail, black-tie optional, and resort casual.

The planning that goes into a wedding these days is astounding; after all, it’s become a multi-billion dollar industry. Formal attire is the most common wedding dress code, but between the welcome party, the rehearsal dinner, and wedding you might need several different ensembles for the celebratory weekend. So let’s help you crack the dress code with looks complete with hair, makeup, and accessory ideas.

Black Tie: This dress code usually means the

wedding is an evening event and women should wear a formal floor-length gown. In some instances, a sophisticated cocktail dress may also work. A good way to gauge the formality of a wedding event is to research the venue to get inspiration for the vibe of the wedding. Hairstyles will lend themselves to be sleeker, possibly an updo or a chic bun. Makeup can be more dramatic with a bold lip or smokey eye.

Formal or Black: Tie Optional: This is a step down from black tie so you will see more cocktail dresses and dressy pant suits, but wearing a floorlength gown is still acceptable. The hair should match the style of your dress, maybe a half-up look, or smooth, old-Hollywood curls. If your dress is simpler, you can spice it up with your accessories. Makeup can be a little more playful for these events. Don’t let it overpower your dress, but a false lash always adds flair. Try a bejeweled clutch or embellished earrings to add a little glamour to your look.

Semi-Formal or Dressy Casual: The time of the wedding plays greatly into the attire for this dress code. A floor-length gown would be overkill. In this scenario go with a midi-length dress or dressy skirt and top combo. For evening weddings, colors can be darker and a little more formal, and makeup and hair should coincide with the look. For a daytime affair maybe choose a light color and flowy chiffon fabric

with a loose curled bohemian-style hair. A soft and shimmery makeup palette will pair nicely with a nude lip.

Casual: If you receive an invitation with this dress

code, the event is most likely outdoors, on the beach or laid-back. Shorts, jeans, and tank tops should still be avoided, but a summer sundress would be perfect paired with a cute wedge or dressy sandal. Hair can be easy and breezy, worn with a simple clip half-back, or fully down with a dreamy wave. Makeup can be minimal with light eyeshadow, peach blush, and a sweet pink gloss.

Resort Casual or Tropical: A destination wedding is always an adventure, but there’s a lot of variables that come into play when deciding what to wear. There’s the heat and the humidity, the wind and the sand; making it hard to choose the proper attire, let alone the proper footwear. For a beach wedding consider a floral maxi dress, or a pretty eyelet sundress. Definitely leave the heels at home and opt for a nude wedge that matches anything or a classic strappy sandal. To combat frizz, try wearing your hair in a loose chignon or a beachy braid. Your makeup should match the laid-back beach vibe, with a clean slate face, dewy glow, a shimmering highlighter and a glossy lip. Add a pop of black mascara and you’re good to go. Don’t forget the fan and the sunscreen.

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| Anything He Can Do...

Anything

Can Do...

Nominations E

thel Merman once sang “anything you can do, i can do better,” and women have been proving that to be true ever since. Women are resilient, strong, powerful, and determined. If given the will, they will give you the way. Now, we aren’t saying men aren’t “all that” — we are simply saying not to count women out.

For way too long, women were supposed to “know their place.” Women were expected to stay home, take care of the house, and raise the babies.

Today, the role of women looks a bit different.

Now women have the choice to stay home (a full-time, thankless job) or go out and take on anything they desire. Or both!

Long gone are the days of putting women in a box. If a woman wants to be a welder, she can. If she wants to be the next president of the United States, she can! There is nothing holding us back as women, and we are here to prove that anything HE can do, so can we.. and maybe better!

If you know a woman who does anything he can do, WHY are you hiding her from us? Send us your badass women nominations to Mary@ScarlettMag.com.

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

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