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LOYOLA ART SHOW | REAL ESTATE ISSUE | LEGACY INGREDIENTS
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Mobile Editor Danielle Schoen
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Cover Photo by Ruili Cai
From the Editor There’s something about September that feels like a fresh start. Summer is winding down, backpacks are packed, routines are returning, and families across our community are stepping into another school year. One of my favorite parts of this issue has been seeing all of the back-to-school photos sent in by local families. From the big smiles and new backpacks to the first-day signs and school colors, I love getting to share these little moments. It’s such a sweet reminder of how quickly the years pass and how special it is to capture each season along the way. September is also our Home & Real Estate Issue, which feels like the perfect pairing. Home is where those busy school mornings start, where backpacks get dropped by the door, homework takes over the kitchen table, and families come back together at the end of the day. A home is so much more than a place, it’s the backdrop for so many of life’s memories. Throughout this issue, we’re excited to highlight some of the incredible people and businesses who help our community grow, whether they’re helping families find a home, building something new, or bringing a vision to life. I hope you enjoy seeing some familiar faces throughout these pages and celebrating another exciting season in our community. Here’s to a wonderful school year and all the memories made at home along the way!
Danielle Schoen
Editor, Social Mobile
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Contents Features SEPTEMBER 2026
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52
62
Influencer: Beachball Properties
56 Festival Spotlight: Bogalusa Blues
62 Bride:
Regan + Alexander
14 Community Leader:
30
Grayson Glaze
40
30 Impact & Give Back: Child Advocacy Center
40 Super Mom: Lisa Irby
51 S | Art: Beth Kelly
THE
MONEY
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ISSUE
FINANCIAL LEADERS OF MOBILE COMING IN DECEMBER
Coming October
SHE LEADS SHE BUILDS SHE INSPIRES
OWN YOUR SPOTLIGHT A curated celebration of women making an impact—WE Social features powerful profiles of businesswomen and local leaders. Secure your opportunity to tell your story and showcase your business. Interested? Email info@socialreallyworks.com
Contents Events
SEPTEMBER 2026
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Ignatius 43 St. Meet the Teachers
66
48 McGill-Toolen Meet the Teachers 50 Reehl Causes 54
Crown Hall Grand Opening & Bay Gourmet 25th Anniversary
Bank Grand 66 Bryant Opening Celebration
& WCR Joint 16 MAAR Membership Breakfast
23 Loyola Art Show Welcome Back 29 JLM Soirée
32 Legacy Ingredients Heron Realty 34 Blue Anniversary
MAKE YOUR BUSINESS
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COMMUNITY LEADER
Grayson Glaze Dr. Grayson Glaze is connecting education, industry and opportunity to help shape the future of real estate along the Gulf Coast.
F
or Dr. Grayson Glaze, real estate has always been about more than property. It is about people, relationships and creating opportunities that strengthen communities for generations to come.
That philosophy now guides his work at the University of South Alabama’s Mitchell College of Business, where Glaze serves as the inaugural Distinguished Professor of Real Estate and director of the University’s growing real estate program. He joined South in 2025 as the program transitioned from a concentration to a full undergraduate major, bringing decades of experience in both higher education and the real estate industry. Glaze came to Mobile following nearly two decades at the University of Alabama, where he served as executive director of the Alabama Center for Real Estate. At South, he is bringing that same energy to a region experiencing tremendous growth.
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In just one semester enrollment in the real estate program more than doubled. Glaze has also helped strengthen connections between the University and the Gulf Coast real estate community through the creation of the Founders Circle, a group of local and regional companies investing in the next generation of industry professionals. Members have committed $300,000 over two years while also providing students access to mentorship, professional networks and real-world opportunities. That connection between the classroom and the community is central to Glaze’s approach. Students are gaining experience beyond textbooks through industry engagement, networking, property visits, professional certifications and competitions. In 2026, a team of University of South Alabama students represented the University at a national real estate challenge in Chicago for the first time and then again in Las Vegas at the ICSC conference.
Glaze also is helping create conversations about the region’s future. The University’s Gulf Coast Real Estate Spring Forum brought professionals together in Mobile to discuss everything from the Port of Mobile and the new downtown airport to industrial growth and urban revitalization. More recently, he led a discussion focused on balancing Baldwin County’s rapid development with the character of its communities. This fall, the program hosts its inaugural Gulf Coast Commercial Real Estate Forum on Oct. 27. Glaze, a University of Alabama real estate and finance graduate who earned his Juris Doctor from Birmingham School of Law, has remained active throughout his academic career as a real estate broker, adviser and property developer. He also holds the CRE, CCIM and CPM professional designations.
LEARN MORE Discover the University of South Alabama’s Real Estate Program at SouthAlabama.edu/RealEstate.
The Boom Belt Boldness Begins Here Join commercial real estate professionals, developers, investors and civic leaders for a conversation exploring the rapid economic expansion reshaping the Southeast—one of the nation’s most compelling regions for investment and revitalization.
Tuesday, October 27 10 a.m.–3 p.m. MacQueen Alumni Center University of South Alabama
Connect with Top-Tier Industry Minds. Gain Critical Market Intelligence. KEYNOTE SPEAKER Reagan Farr
President & CEO, Silicon Ranch
SCAN TO REGISTER TODAY SEPTEMBER 2026
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MAAR & WCR JOINT MEMBERSHIP BREAKFAST
Kim Moody, Mary Jane Owen, Donna Gardner, Cy Cain and Marie Dickinson
Necole Gardner and Sabria Bolar
Jennifer Hyde and Misty Hellman
Kim Alexander and Traci Castillow
Aubrey Stenson and Patricia Kelly
Shelby and Chase Ludlam
Photos by Meaghan Doggett
The Mobile Area Association of REALTORS® and Women’s Council of REALTORS® hosted their Joint Membership Breakfast at The Battle House Renaissance Mobile Hotel & Spa, bringing members together for networking and fellowship. Mary Jane Owen, 2026 Alabama REALTORS® President, served as guest speaker, and the recipients of MAAR’s 2026 Annual Awards were revealed.
Sarah Shamburger and Lynette Gunn
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Nathaniel Larkin, Tessa Wiggins, Jansyn Wiggins and Olivia Whittle
Melissa Parent and Denise Cameron
Tasha Burt and Stacy Fuller
Jada Braxton and Nikki Braxton
Melissa Butler and Tessa Wiggins
Kim Alexander, Sabria Bolar and Traci Castillow
Monica Alidor and Carolyn Norman
Dewayne and Cherie Ward
Anniee Faulk, Ivy Thompson and Julie Minto
Tiffany Perkins and Melanie Bunting-Seymour
Chad Fincher and Marie Dickinson
Stacy Cole and Emily Rogers
SEPTEMBER 2026
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Celebrating Excellence IN SERVICE & LEADERSHIP
Hope Brown
Silvia Skultety
Melanie Bunting-Seymour
2026 Jamie Praytor Humanitarian Award Recipient
2026 David D. Roberts Scholarship Recipient
2026 REALTOR® of the Year Award Recipient
Each year, MAAR recognizes individuals whose leadership, service, and dedication make a lasting impact on the real estate profession and the community it serves. The 2026 Jamie Praytor Humanitarian Award, David D. Roberts Scholarship, and REALTOR® of the Year Award honor three distinct areas of excellence while celebrating a shared commitment to making a difference.
the legacy of MAAR’s only National Association of REALTORS® President by supporting REALTORS® pursuing advanced education and future leadership opportunities. As MAAR’s highest individual honor, the REALTOR® of the Year Award recognizes excellence through professional leadership, service, and commitment to clients, colleagues, and the community.
The Jamie Praytor Humanitarian Award recognizes extraordinary compassion, generosity, and servant leadership. The David D. Roberts Scholarship honors
Together, these honors celebrate REALTORS® who lead by example, invest in others, and help strengthen both their profession and their community.
M O B I L E R E A LT O R S .C O M
2026 REALTOR® of the Year Award Recipient
Melanie
BUNTING-SEYMOUR Melanie Bunting-Seymour is the recipient of the 2026 REALTOR® of the Year Award, recognized for her outstanding professionalism, leadership, service, and commitment to the REALTOR® community. A Broker and REALTOR® since 2004, Melanie is a respected mentor and servant leader dedicated to ethics, integrity, and collaboration. Her industry involvement includes leadership with the MAAR Grievance Committee, serving as an RPAC Major Investor, and actively volunteering within the REALTOR® community. Her passion for service reaches well beyond real estate. Melanie has served as President of Habitat for Humanity and currently serves as President of Restore Mobile, Inc., reflecting her dedication to historic preservation and community advocacy. Her leadership and commitment to serving others make her a deserving recipient of this distinguished honor.
2026 Jamie Praytor Humanitarian Award Recipient
Hope BROWN
Hope Brown is the recipient of the 2026 Jamie Praytor Humanitarian Award, recognized for her unwavering commitment to serving others with compassion, dignity, and purpose. Whether supporting children and women, caring for neighbors and clients, or stepping in for those facing difficult circumstances, Hope leads with a genuine heart for helping others. Her service extends throughout the community, including volunteering with Light of the Village and collecting clothing for Our Sisters’ Closet to help provide for women in need. Through both her volunteer work and the way she serves others in everyday life, Hope embodies the values that defined Jamie Praytor: kindness, integrity, compassion, and selfless service. Her dedication to lifting up those around her makes her a deserving recipient of this meaningful honor.
2026 David D. Roberts Scholarship Recipient
Silvia SKULTETY
Silvia Skultety is the recipient of the 2026 David D. Roberts Scholarship, recognized for her commitment to professional growth, education, leadership, and service to others. As Broker/Owner of Mobile Bay Real Estate and President of the Hispanic American Business Association, Silvia is a respected leader and dedicated advocate for fellow REALTORS®. Through mentorship and education, she generously shares her knowledge while helping others find opportunities to grow and succeed. Silvia’s impact extends beyond her own professional accomplishments. Her commitment to strengthening those around her through leadership, education, and community service reflects the spirit of the David D. Roberts Scholarship and makes her a deserving recipient of this special recognition.
MAKING THE WAY IN REAL ESTATE
MAAR Leadership
The Mobile Area Association of REALTORS® (MAAR) provides ongoing education, training, information and support services to help members succeed. In partnership with our business affiliates, we add value to the community by advocating private property rights, providing community services and promoting quality of life. We are dedicated to the highest standards of ethics and professionalism
Marie Dickinson
Chad Fincher
Mike Reid
Kim Moody
Cy Cain
Traci Castillow
Liz Merrow
April Mayhall
President
Chief Executive Officer
President-Elect
Membership & Education Director
Jennifer Hyde
Executive Assistant
Treasurer
Secretary
MLS Director
Membership & Sentrilock Coordinator
Zack Albert
Stephanie Ina Bunkley
RPAC Coordinator
Ivy Thompson
Immediate Past President
Anniee Faulk
Communications Director & Professional Standards Administrator
MLS Coordinator
SUPPORT FOR THE EVER-CHANGING REAL ESTATE MARKET
Minimal Membership Costs
Priceless Benefits APPLY TODAY AT MOBILEREALTORS.COM
As a real estate professional, it is time to distinguish yourself from the competition. REALTOR® membership gives you that competitive edge! Each year, when you make your dues investment, maintaining your REALTOR® status, you automatically receive the membership benefits of your local, state and national REALTOR® Associations. This support informs and guides you through the ever changing Real Estate Market. You’ll have access to a wide array of business tools, real estate market data, educational opportunities, and discount programs designed to help you succeed in today’s market.
LOYOLA ART SHOW PHOTOS BY RUILI CAI
SEPTEMBER 2026
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B A R B E R FA C I A L P L A S T I C S . C O M
LOYOLA ART SHOW
Hannah Perez, Lacey Mulroy and Libby LaCour
Libby LaCour and Johannah Bullard
Abby Remick, Camden Hull and Kathryn Varnado
Sara Grace Wilkins, Julia Graham and Marie Grady
Robin Coffey and Mandy Damrich
Photos by Ruili Cai
Hosted by St. Ignatius School, The Loyola Art Show brought more than 60 jury-selected artists to Crown Hall, showcasing original works and connecting artists, collectors and the community. The weekend kicked off with Friends of Loyola, a private celebration welcoming sponsors, supporters and special guests. Kaylin Downing and Emme Young
Leticia and Scott Henne
Elizabeth and David Johnson
Lauren Jackson and Susan Latham
Johnny and Kristen Schumacher, Marianna and Maury Lyon
SEPTEMBER 2026
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LOYOLA ART SHOW
Olivia Stringfellow, Mona Shumake and Savannah Vallee
Savannah Asmus and Ashley Benton
Kacie Landis and Emma Carr
Jeffrey and Jennifer Brewer, Presley and Logan Brewer
Kim Zukley and Elisabeth Hays
Ty Bullard and Merrill Thomas
Vicky Godoy, Biyina Villar, Lauren Young and Maushami Shrestha
Lindsey and Josh Boone
Caroline Mathews, Audrey Lapeyrouse, Jordan Schmitz and Kim Laan
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Caylee Summerford, Annie Peters and Olivia Kirkpatrick
SOCIAL MOBILE
Cindy and Charlie Warner
Brandon Finnorn and Eden Flora
Sara Russell, Bri Davey, Brooke Chamblee and Katherine Goldman
Ryan and Danielle Rebowe, Victoria and Jason Frischhertz
Audrey and John Reintjes
SEPTEMBER 2026
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Lisa Gowan and Brad Smith understand that finding the right home is only part of the equation. With First Horizon offices on both sides of Mobile Bay, they bring local market knowledge and decades of mortgage experience to helping clients find financing that fits their goals. Both are experienced across a wide range of mortgage products, including Physician and Professional Loans, Bank Statement and DSCR loans, FHA and VA financing, down-payment assistance and more. With lending capabilities in 48 states, they offer the personal attention of a local team with the ability to help clients finance homes across the country. What should buyers do before they begin looking at homes? Start the conversation early. Understanding your purchasing power and financing options can help you shop confidently and be ready when the right home comes along.
Lisa GOWAN
Mortgage Loan Officer Vice President NMLS #214700 251-490-7071 lisahartley.gowan@firsthorizon.com 22530 US Highway 98, Suite 50, Fairhope
Brad SMITH
Mortgage Loan Officer Vice President NMLS #928819 205-577-9906 brad.smith@firsthorizon.com 15 W I-65 Service Road North, Mobile
MORE THAN A MORTGAGE Local Expertise. Nationwide Reach.
Are there financing options borrowers may not realize are available? Absolutely. Every borrower’s circumstances are different. Lisa and Brad help clients understand the options available and identify the financing that best fits their needs. Why choose Brad and Lisa? They combine the resources of an established bank with the personal attention of an experienced local lending team. Clients aren’t simply loan applications. They’re people with individual goals and plans for the future. More than a mortgage means more than getting to the closing table. For Lisa and Brad, it means building lasting relationships, understanding the bigger financial picture and being a trusted resource here at home or across the country.
JLM WELCOME BACK SOIRÉE
Candice Selwyn and Anna Daniel
Karisha Pruitt and Andria West
Adrienne Brown, Jeanice Durgin and Shay Brown
Emily Musgrove and Morgan Barrett
Renee Russell and Caitlyn Young
Photos by Cindy McCrory, Blue Room Photography
Junior League of Mobile welcomed its members to a Welcome Back Soirée at Greer’s St. Louis Market. Guests reconnected, welcomed new faces interested in JLM’s mission and celebrated the start of another exciting year of service and community impact.
Ashleigh McSwain and Latonya West
Michelle Hunter and Amanda Herren
Kira Kitchens and Mary Anne Dearth
Shannon Haris and Lori Moore
Hermonica Broadnax, Sharon Inge, Warnetta Hurd and Pamela Bell
SEPTEMBER 2026
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IMPACT & GIVE BACK
BE STRONG, BE BRAVE, BE FEARLESS.
You are never alone.
I
magine learning that your child has been abused by someone you trusted. In an instant, your world is filled with fear, anger, uncertainty, and heartbreak. While your child needs protection, medical care, counseling, and reassurance that the abuse was not their fault, many families are left wondering where to begin. For nearly four decades, the Child Advocacy Center of Mobile has been that place to begin.
Founded in 1988, the CAC is the only Child Advocacy Center in Alabama where every agency involved in child abuse investigations and treatment is housed under one roof. Through a unique partnership that includes law enforcement, the District Attorney’s Office, the Department of Human Resources, medical professionals, counselors, and CAC staff, children can receive the services they need in one safe, child-friendly location at no cost to their families. Each year, approximately 500 children come to the CAC seeking help and hope. From forensic interviews and medical evaluations to trauma-informed counseling and legal advocacy, every service is designed to protect children, support families, and help survivors begin their journey toward healing. 30
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WAYS TO HELP
One former client shared: “You didn’t just help protect me, you helped me start healing. You believed in me before I even knew how to believe in myself. Today, I live with peace, purpose, and hope, and much of that began with the care I received from your center.” Her story is a reminder that the CAC’s work extends far beyond crisis intervention. It changes lives, restores hope, and helps children build futures free from abuse. The Child Advocacy Center of Mobile is made possible through the generosity of donors, volunteers, community partners, and the remarkable courage of the children and families it serves every day.
How you can change the life of a child: Serve it Up With Love
If you suspect a child is being abused, report it to DHR or law enforcement Teach children in your life how to protect themselves from abuse
Downtown Cajun Cook-Off
Become a regular donor to the CAC to care for children Support and attend our fundraisers Follow us on social media to learn more Child Advocacy Center of Mobile
CACMOBILE.ORG
SEPTEMBER 2026
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LEGACY INGREDIENTS
Stacy Wellborn, David and Whitney Calametti
Dr. Leida Javier-Ferrell and Nailim Sanchez
Legacy Ingredients
Astrid Viera, Debra Collins and Gretta Smith
David Clausell and Merceria Ludgood
Connie Hudson and Kyria Sanchez
Clarkson and Morgan Scott
Walter Miranda and Guillermo Belloso
Photos by Kevin Lazarus
Continental Commissary Kitchen hosted Legacy Ingredients, a celebration honoring the founders, donors and supporters who helped build the organization. The event featured the unveiling of the Wall of Sponsors and marked a meaningful transition as Dr. Leida Javier-Ferrell passed the apron to incoming Executive Director Nailim Sanchez.
Julia Langan and Samantha Wheaton
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Cory Penn, Dr. Raoual Richardson and Darrell Randle
Pilar Gaunaurd and Audra Harper
Miguel Lopez and Brian LeMoine
Tiffany Dawkins, George Hunter and Aree Kirksey
Shonnda Smith, Nailim Sanchez and Patty Kiefer
Richard and Suehail Muniz
Fall Fun Starts Here!
The Greater Gulf State Fair returns Oct 30 – Nov 8 with exciting rides, games, entertainment, and your favorite fair treats. Grab your advance discounted tickets before October 30 and make plans for the Gulf Coast’s biggest fall celebration!
The Two-Fer Sept 1 - Oct 11
2
Tickets Ride Wristbands
Only $49.99! www.greatergulfstatefair.com/buytickets SEPTEMBER 2026
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Nichole Russell Paulk Associate Broker | REALTOR®
N
ichole brings three decades of real estate experience, deep market knowledge and a wealth of expertise to every client relationship. Her work spans Mobile and Baldwin Counties, from first homes and established neighborhoods to investment and luxury properties.
What have you learned matters most to clients when making a move? Clients want more than the best value—they want someone they trust to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. Every transaction has countless moving parts, and my experience allows me to anticipate challenges, manage the details and find solutions before they become problems. What sets a truly exceptional real estate experience apart? Trust, communication, experience and results. My motto has always been to be honest, ethical, hardworking and dependable. I want clients to know I’m looking out for them from beginning to end and beyond. My job doesn’t stop at closing. I’m always available when they need a trusted resource, an answer or simply some help.
251-605-2357 | Nichole@BlueHeron-Realty.com
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1Year ANNIVERSARY Photos by Candice Brown
Blue Heron Realty celebrated its first anniversary with friends, clients and members of the community at Buster’s in Daphne. Guests gathered to toast the milestone while enjoying wine, beer and light bites. The celebration marked a successful first year for the locally owned brokerage and the team behind its growth.
KatieCrane REALTOR®
K
has spent 20 years building a successful real estate career in the community she has always called home. Serving clients on both sides of the Bay, she brings local knowledge and a personal approach to every move, from first-time purchases and relocation to luxury real estate. She treats every client like family, providing trusted guidance and service beyond the transaction. How have your deep roots in South Alabama shaped the way you serve your clients? It has given me a true understanding of the communities, neighborhoods and people I serve. It helps me guide clients in finding the right neighborhood, preparing a home to sell and making important decisions. What is one piece of advice you find yourself giving buyers and sellers again and again? Be patient and trust the process. Real estate is a major decision, and it’s important not to feel rushed. Whether buying or selling, having the right information, a clear strategy and an experienced agent by your side can make all the difference.
251-753-5030 | KatieCrane@BlueHeron-Realty.com
SEPTEMBER 2026
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BLUE HERON REALTY ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY
Nichole Russell Paulk
Owner, Managing Broker
Aleen Walsh Grow Owner, Broker, REALTOR®
Image by Cindy McCrory, Blue Room Photography
Mickie Russel
Pam Stein
Katie Crane
Abby Stimpson
Candi McKean
Angela Locklear
Mary Elisabeth Patrick
Harry Johnson
Paige Little
Ginger Drago
Jessica Bailey
Dennis Hansen
Michelle Bowman
Kimberly Hise
Kathy Yow
William Harrell
Paula Knodel
Raven Villa
Jessica Larson Little
Kelley Wright
Lois Crump
Tammie Sullivan
Caren Reid Phillips
David Brush
Patsy Miller
Diane Horst
Jon Paul Tankersley
Jan Kappel
Jamie Smith
Linda Lou Parsons
Mobile 165 West I-65 Service Road North, Mobile AL 36608
BlueHeron-Realty.com SOCIAL MOBILE
Suzanne Winstead
Anne Baggett
Daphne 713 Belrose Avenue Daphne, AL 36526
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Grace Pond
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SEPTEMBER 2026
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MOM
F
or Lisa Irby, 39-year-old wife, mother and business owner, family is at the heart of everything she does. Alongside her husband, Jason Irby, she owns The Stone Experts, crafting custom granite, marble and quartz countertops throughout the Gulf Coast. The award-winning company has been recognized as Best Countertop Company in the Nappie Awards for three consecutive years. Before becoming a business owner in 2021, Lisa was a first-grade teacher. Leaving the classroom was a leap of faith, but one that ultimately created something even greater for her family.
Lisa Irby
SUPER
“God’s plan is far better than I could’ve ever imagined,” Lisa shares. Building a successful business has allowed her to remain present for the moments that matter most with their children, Jason, 14, and Hannah Grace, 11. Like many working moms, Lisa wears countless hats “chaos coordinator, cheerleader, counselor, meal master and carpool hustler”, but her favorite role will always be being their biggest fan. At home, faith, love and togetherness remain the foundation. From playing “High-Low” around the dinner table to holiday baking and 40
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C O M I N G I N O C TO B E R
Women
ALL ABOUT THE PINK ISSUE
featuring: annual family trips, Lisa strives to make even ordinary moments meaningful. Motherhood has also taught her that perfection isn’t the goal. “They just need me to be there,” she says. More than any professional accomplishment, Lisa is proudest of being a mom. She hopes her children remember a home filled with love, laughter and Jesus, and a mother who prayed for them, cheered them on and showed them the value of faith, hard work and resilience.
SURVIVOR STORIES, WOMEN’S HEALTH & BEAUTY, AND MORE!
For more info reach out to info@SocialReallyWorks.com SEPTEMBER 2026
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MEET THE TEACHERS PHOTOGRAPHY BY TINLEY LEWIS
St. Ignatius Catholic School welcomed parents for an evening of connection and community, beginning with a parent meeting in the gym. Families then headed to classrooms to meet teachers and experience a glimpse of their children’s school day before returning to the gym for social time with fellow parents.
SEPTEMBER 2026
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Protecting your assets: Our team can help protect what you've worked so hard to create. Mediation: We will guide you in mediating your case to a faster resolution that we can tailor to your family’s specific needs. Family Law: Attorney Krissy McCulloch leads clients through divorce, child custody, and beyond.
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S | ART
BETH KELLY
For Mobile artist Beth Kelly, every building has a story worth preserving. Her artistic journey began at 19, studying oil painting under Nolan Schmidt before creating pieces for family and friends. After losing her work in a fire, Beth stepped away from art, eventually returning years later with a love for sketching. Cathedral Art Gallery welcomed and encouraged her as a new artist, helping shape her creative journey. She later put down her pencils to care for her granddaughter during serious health challenges. Three years ago, with her granddaughter happy and healthy, Beth began drawing again. Today, she captures homes and buildings with remarkable detail, turning meaningful places into lasting keepsakes. SEPTEMBER 2026
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INFLUENCERS
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CROWN HALL GRAND OPENING & BAY GOURMET 25TH ANNIVERSARY PHOTOS PROVIDED BY KATHRYN STEVENS AND COURTESY OF MOBILE CHAMBER
Bay Gourmet Catering celebrated 25 years of great food, service and memorable moments with a special anniversary celebration at its new home, Crown Hall. Guests gathered in downtown Mobile for an evening of live entertainment, delicious food and fellowship while celebrating Bay Gourmet’s milestone and the opening of Crown Hall.
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SEPTEMBER 2026
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Photo by Sharon Jan Thomas Hartzog
Photo by Roger A. Casama II
The inaugural festival proved immediately that something special had been created. Nearly 2,000 people came to Cassidy Park despite more than five inches of rain. That first year, the Bogalusa Blues & Heritage Festival was named “Best New Event of the Year” by the Louisiana Association of Fairs & Festivals. The festival also received a first-place award for its poster and logo and was recognized as one of Louisiana’s Top Ten Must-See Festivals.
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This September, the Bogalusa Blues & Heritage Festival celebrates 15 years of bringing music, culture and community together beneath the towering pines and moss-draped oaks of beautiful Cassidy Park. What began in 2012 as an idea to celebrate Bogalusa’s rich musical heritage has grown into one of the Gulf South’s most respected music festivals. From the beginning, the vision has been about more than putting great music on a stage. Our mission is to preserve and promote the blues and the music of our heritage, provide a family-friendly cultural experience, and showcase Bogalusa and Washington Parish as a destination rich in music, history, art and community.
Photo by Roger A. Casama II
The Bogalusa Blues & Heritage Festival Celebrates a Louisiana Tradition.
Photo by Kim Welsh
Fifteen Years of Heart, Soul & Sound
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Photo by Sharon Jan Thomas Hartzog
The recognition continued as the festival grew. OffBeat Magazine named the Bogalusa Blues & Heritage Festival “Best Festival Outside New Orleans,” helping establish Bogalusa as a destination for serious music lovers. At the heart of the festival has always been heritage. Bogalusa is the birthplace of legendary pianist and composer Henry Roeland Byrd, better known as Professor Longhair, whose unmistakable style helped shape the sound of New Orleans music. The festival has continued to honor the musicians, stories and musical traditions that connect Bogalusa to Louisiana’s extraordinary musical history. Through the years, the stages at Cassidy Park have welcomed an impressive collection of artists, including Tab Benoit, Keb’ Mo’, Bobby Rush, Samantha Fish, Ruthie Foster, Anders Osborne, Marc Broussard, Sonny Landreth, Paul Thorn, North Mississippi Allstars and many more.
But the Bogalusa Blues & Heritage Festival has never been only about who is on the stage. It is families spreading blankets beneath the trees, friends gathering over Louisiana food, artists and vendors sharing their work, children experiencing the festival for the first time and visitors discovering the beauty and hospitality of our community. Today, the festival remains a nonprofit organization powered by volunteers, sponsors and a community committed to keeping this tradition alive. On September 25–26, 2026, we return to Cassidy Park to celebrate an incredible milestone. Fifteen years of heart. Fifteen years of soul. Fifteen years of sound. And the blues are still playing in Bogalusa.
JOIN US Sept. 25-26 Cassidy Park Bogalusa , LA
Photo by Sharon Jan Thomas Hartzog
Photo by Roger A. Casama II
Photo by Casey Varnado
Photo by Sharon Jan Thomas Hartzog
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Photo by Cindy McCrory, Blue Room Photography
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THE FALL EDIT presented by
BRIDE
Photos courtesy of Photography by Toni
A
fter six years together, Regan Elizabeth McLaney and Alexander Weil said “I do” on April 11, 2026, surrounded by family, friends, and meaningful touches that made their wedding uniquely theirs.
Their story came full circle when Alexander proposed at their beach house overlooking the water on Innerarity Island, the place where they first fell in love. He lined the stairs leading to the water with rose petals and displayed a sign reading, “You and Me Forever.” After Regan said yes, Alexander surprised her with an engagement celebration in Fairhope surrounded by loved ones.
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Fifteen months later, the couple exchanged vows at Mobile’s historic Bragg-Mitchell Mansion, the same venue where Regan’s parents were married nearly 30 years earlier. With the help of her mother and wedding planner Tiffany Evans of Evans Weddings, Regan brought her elegant vision of black, white, and blush to life. Regan wore a strapless Justin Alexander gown from Bliss Bridal featuring a draped neckline, sheer floral lace corset bodice, and fitted crepe skirt. Sentimental moments included a “Letters to the Bride” book filled with messages from loved ones and heartfelt speeches throughout the reception. After enjoying their three-tier coconut and vanilla cake adorned with pearl details and fresh pink peonies, the newlyweds danced the night away. They ended the celebration with a picture-perfect exit in a white 1958 Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz convertible before heading to The Battle House Hotel. The couple honeymooned in Mykonos, Greece, and London, England, before returning home to Fairhope to begin their next chapter together. SEPTEMBER 2026
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VENDORS VENUE: Bragg-Mitchell Mansion
BEVERAGE SERVICE: Shaun Thomas
WEDDING PLANNER: Evans Weddings
CAKE BAKERY: Couture Cakes
OFFICIANT: Evans Weddings
RENTALS: Port City Rentals
DJ: Evans Weddings
HAIR & MAKEUP: Pink Label Agency
PHOTOGRAPHER: Photography by Toni
TRANSPORTATION: A Bride’s Ride
VIDEOGRAPHER: McCoy Wedding Films
LIGHTING: Snyder Bros
FLORIST: Cleveland the Florist
WEDDING DRESS: Bliss Bridal (Designer - Justin Alexander)
VIOLINIST & CELLIST: Sunderland Strings PIANIST: Ivy’s Music Coordinating Services CATERER: Naman’s Catering
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TUX RENTALS: Men’s Wearhouse BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Bella Bridesmaids
DESIGN. DEFINE. DISCOVER.
200 SOUTH MCKENZIE STREET | FOLEY, ALABAMA 36535 | 251.943.2941
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BRYANT BANK GRAND OPENING CELEBRATION
Kendall Taylor, Michelle Smart and Chelsey Henthorn
Jacklyn Sweeney, Mae Martin Murray and Sonya Christianson
Greg Strachan, Robin Wilkins and Claude Edwards
GRAND
Regina Allen Fraley and Lisa Hastings
Opening
Charlotte and Michael Holland
Photos by Kevin Lazarus
Bryant Bank celebrated the grand opening of its new office at 3680 Dauphin Street with an impressive turnout throughout the day. The celebration began during business hours and continued with an evening VIP event, bringing together clients, community leaders and friends to mark an exciting new chapter for Bryant Bank in Mobile. Shana Jordan and Michi Lunceford
Nancy Hutchinson, Rene Davis and Elaine Hunter
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Garner Jeffery and Jay Watkins
Tom Johnson and Greg Saad
Chad Niblett, Michael Holland and Jessica James
BUSINESS BANKING
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Clarity before closing.
Buying a home can be overwhelming. With a mortgage professional sitting down with you, walking you through every detail and helping you understand the entire process, you can buy with confidence. It might not be what you expect from a bank, but it’s certainly what you can expect form us. Banking Beyond Expectation.
REGINA FRALEY VP Mortgage Loan Officer Regina.Fraley@bryantmortgage.com (251) 607-5785 | NMLS 925786
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