FOUR
I N S P I R A T I O N
VOLUME 20
family owned & operated Printed in the USA
F O R
L O V E ,
L I F E ,
H O M E
&
F O O D
2019 | $4.99
LAZY DAYS OF SUMMER THE INSIDE TRACK TO THE BEST SPOTS TO FROLICK, GET MARRIED, & MORE
SATURDAY, NOV 2 Come for a day of UFO research, exploration, sightings, alien abductions and marketplace TICKETS ON SALE NOW AT:
THEUFOCON.COM SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2019 10:00AM - 6:00PM THE OASIS CLUB AT CHAMPIONSGATE 1520 CHAMPIONSGATE BLVD, CHAMPIONSGATE, FL 33896
@theufocon
C O N T weddings
HAUTE VENUES
P.9
SUMMER BOOK CLUB
Discover the best wedding venues + more
WEDDING INSPO P. 12 Find some photo inspo from our preferred vendors
TRUSTED PARTNERS
home + kitchen
P. 14
Reading recommendations from our team
MELISA'S TASTE OF FOUR
P.18
From her own family recipe collection comes our beloved Taste Of Four section.
P.38
Our trusted partners and vendors are found here for your big day and your life beyond.
A LOOK AT NEW HOMES
P. 29
Providence Golf Community shares their new model homes with us.
E N T S lifestyle
FOUR Founder & Editor in Chief MELISA KENNEDY
Editor & Distribution BILL KENNEDY
Creative Director EMILY HUMPHREY
For subscription and advertising inquiries, please email us at info@fourmagazines.com
@fourmagazines
Copyright Š 2019 BMK Publishing LLC. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA. The
GIRLS TRIP TO THE KEYS
P.21
Join Melisa and Emily to paradise!
ROSE GARDENING P. 31 See how to care for your roses this summer and how to enjoy growing this timeless flower
HISTORIC GEORGIA P. 32 Join Bill and Melisa Kennedy on a historical weekend to Southern Georgia
Magazines Volume 19 issue. FOUR is published bi-monthly in January, March, T HFOUR E July, ASeptember, RT O F V IbyN A G LLC E 8297PChampionsGate .13 May, and November BMKTPublishing #349,ChampionsGate, FL 33896. FOUR makes every effort to ensure the SeeBlvd, Melisa's mantel quality and accuracy newest of the contents found here. No person, organization or party can copy or re-produce the content on this site and/or magazine or any part of this rehab + vintage design publication without a written consent frominspiration the editors’ panel and the author of the content, as applicable. The publisher, authors and contributors reserve their rights with regards to copyright of their work. The copyright includes (and not limited to): the content syndication from the RSS feeds of this publication, the content and/or images used in any of the articles of this publication, the FOUR logo and any of its derivatives, the content in the magazines and its website are made available on the terms and condition that the publisher, editors, contributors and related parties: shall have no responsibility for any action or omission by any other contributor, consultant, editor or related party disclaim any and all liability and responsibility to any person or party, be they a purchaser, reader, advertiser or consumer of this publication or not in regards to the consequences and outcomes of anything done or omitted being in reliance whether partly or solely on the contents of this publication and its related website and products are not responsible in any way for the actions or results taken any person, organisation or any party on basis of reading information, or contributions in this publication, website or related product.
SPRING HOME BUYING
Get the answers from the real estate experts on buying a home now
IN THE GARDEN
P. 18
Roses never seem to go out of style. Learn more about them
P. 16
EDITOR'S LETTER
Four years ago, this magazine barely existed. In fact, the magazine was just an idea in my head and I was still teaching piano lessons a few days a week. One fine day, I got to marry a tall handsome Iowa gent who changed my life forever. He encouraged me to start the magazine after we got married on July 13, 2015. We got married on the beach in Siesta Key, Florida after just five months of dating. (And yes, the only thing I wish we would have done differently is hire a better photographer‌) Fast forward four years later, and we've enjoyed many exciting press trips, media dines, and incredible events. I've recently finished my first novel, Blood Of The Kingdom: Breaking Truth, much to the persistence and encouragement of my sweet husband. Happy anniversary, Bill. It's been a stellar four years and I'm ready for the next adventure with you!
MELISA S. KENNEDY Founder & Editor in Chief Follow me
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@melisakennedyofficial
g n i v o l s ' a s i mel WHAT
All of my summer favorites are perfect for enjoying the. season! -Melisa
NOTEBOOKS & PLANNERS With deadlines for the magazine and my book writing, I have to stay organized! So, I am a fan of planners. And luckily, I found the perfect high quality and customized planners! I simply can't get enough of Golden Coil. Notebooks + Planners $65; goldencoil.com
NECKLACES If costume jewelry is what you're looking for, look no further than Queen Cousins. Necklaces $18.26; queencousins.com
BLENDER BOMBS I love smoothies. So, when I heard about these omega-3 rich boosters, I had to try 'em. And luckily, I love them all. I simply can't get enough of Blender Bombs. Variety of flavors $24.99; blenderbombs.com
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FOR THE LATEST WEDDING INSPIRATION
FOLLOW + TAG #ILOVEFOURMAGS We may even feature your post!
WEDDING VENUES
5 wedding + reception sites These
preferred
venues
focus
on
quality
for
your
celebration.
BY MELISA S. KENNEDY
white barn at lucas farm
omni orlando resort
rockledge gardens
4161 GARRETT HIGHWAY, OAKLAND, MD 21550; LUCASFARMWB.COM
1500 MASTERS BLVD, CHAMPIONSGATE, FL 33896; OMNIHOTELS.COM
2153 US-1, ROCKLEDGE, FL 32955; ROCKLEDGEGARDENS.COM
Nestled in the serene Oakland countryside, this farm escape is home to lots of down home charm featuring it's barn and outdoor spaces - idyllic settings for a rustic wedding. A pavilion perched above a pond is also perfect for your ceremony, and the barn could host your indoor reception.
Surrounded by 36 holes of championship Orlando golf, the Leadbetter Golf Academy World Headquarters and 15 acres of recreation, this Four Diamond resort is as luxurious as you can dream up. From dining and golf to dream weddings, this resort has it all.
Rockledge Gardens is the largest and most complete garden center and nursery in Brevard County and central coastal Florida. This venue is family owned and operated, which we love. Surround yourself and your guests with gorgeous native Florida plants and flowers during your ceremony.
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Rockledge Gardens in Florida Photography by Danielle Taufer
doubletree hilton orlando
the oasis club
10100 INTERNATIONAL DR, ORLANDO, FL 32821; DOUBLETREE3.HILTON.COM
1520 OASIS CLUB BLVD, CHAMPIONSGATE, FL 33896; THEOASISCLUBATCHAMPIONSGATE.COM
Take your wedding to the next level in Orlando when you book your venue at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel at SeaWorld, the largest DoubleTree in the world. Nestled in 28 acres of lush palm trees and tropical fountains, the DoubleTree Orlando is your relaxing oasis and wedding destination.
According to Events Director, Tiffany Jones, the Oasis Club has unique spaces, great food with options to customize, flexibility with budget options as well as the convenience of its location near Walt Disney World, airport and vacation rental homes. "You're different, so have a different type of wedding!"
F
Find more wedding stuff at FOUROFFICIAL.COM
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White Barn at Lucas Farm in Oakland, Maryland
WEDDING INSPIRATION Browse our insider's guide from our trusted partners for insider tips and trends. MATHEW ANDERSON THE VOW GUY WEDDING OFFICIANT
Mathew's passion for officiating weddings goes beyond the normal "I do". He goes out of his way to customize the ceremony and make the couple feel comfortable with every aspect, like he did here at a wedding in Pembroke, Georgia at the Chande Pines Plantation.
SEBASTIAN TEH LOVE IN STILLS WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER
Sebastian is a bespoke wedding photographer who is passionate yet driven. In the pursuit to turn every photos into art pieces, Loveinstills has earned a reputation of not only a photography company that capture the essence of the moment, but also reliable and resourceful.
RAY AND SIMON BARRETT RADLEIGH + SAGE
PHOTOGRAPHY @MKL_IMAGES
PHOTOGRAPHY: @CAILA ARAHOOD
EVENT DESIGN
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WV FLORIST & GIFTS THOMASYARD WEDDING FLORIST
Located in Thomas, West Virginia, this quaint shop is all about flowers, gifts, handmade items, and more! Nestled in the beautiful mountains, you'll want to never leave. For more information, please visit their website, thomasyard.com!
The King's Daughter Bridal Boutique in Rockledge, Florida carries Enzoani, which is one of the most sought-after brands.
@MKL_IMAGES
BRIAN LABRADA
Home based in California, this multiservice event company that specializes in wedding and event coordination, floristry, and photobooth services. We are a dynamic team of creatives that put the client experience at the very center of our mission. We are artists and story tellers that are determined to help bring your vision, your event, to life.
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REAL BOOKS, GREAT PLOTS, HAPPY READER.
summer
the book club Featuring new book releases and subscription book boxes!
DON'T MISS THIS BOOK!
Available on:
A new thrilling dystopian novel of when other worldly beings invade.
Breaking Truth Most dystopian futures are a long-time-coming sort of thing. That’s not the case for the Blood of the Kingdom series. One moment the world is normal, and the next, these superior space beings invade earth and seek one particular bloodline to procreate their next generation. Young adults are sent off to camps for DNA experimental projects that result in deadly competitions referred to as Genesis Games. The series delves into one West Virginia teen who has been chosen as the next queen because of her blood and innate superpowers. The fate of the Genesis Games winners and the future of the planet rests on the shoulders of a few.
www.bloodofthekingdom.com
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A BOOKSTAGRAM TOUR!
Storygram Tours is a bookstagram tour company that promotes YA and adult books through instagram.
Storygram Tours Kristen and Bridget have been running their business for over two years now and have run 100's of successful tours. "We were the first bookstagram tour company to launch and I feel we offer set ourselves apart because both my partner and I have been apart of the book community for years." Check out their upcoming tours on Instagram!
instagram.com/storygramtours
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DON'T MISS THIS BOOK!
Coming this fall:
A wedding officiant's memoirs - accounts of funny, romantic & odd ceremonies
Let's Get You Married! Most wedding officiants just do their thing. That’s not the case for The Vow Guy - author Mathew Anderson. This is his second book release and is set to launch this fall. Cover design by Zachary Cottrell.
www.thevowguy.com
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f o e t s Ta our F
BY MELISA KENNEDY DOWN HOME RECIPES FROM MELISA'S OWN FAMILY RECIPES
GARLICKY HUMMUS Ingredients: 1 garlic clove 1 can cannellini or white beans, rinsed + drained 2 tbsp good olive oil 1 tbsp lemon juice 2 tbsp sour cream 1 tbsp paprika 1 tbsp rosemary salt + black pepper to taste
In a food processor, pulse the garlic until chopped. Add the beans and pulse again. Add the remaining ingredients until well combined. Place into serving bowl. Serve with pita chips.
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COOL MACARONI SUMMER SALAD Ingredients: 1 package elbow macaroni 2 carrots, grated 1 small tomato, diced 1/3 cup onion, finely chopped 1 celery stalk, finely chopped 1/2 cup fresh parsley 1 scallion (white and light green), chopped 3/4 cup mayonnaise 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper, salt, & parsley
In a large pot, cook macaroni pasta according to box instructions. Drain well and rinse with cold water. In a large bowl, combine all the other ingredients until well coated with mayonnaise and seasonings. Add the cooled macaroni and toss together. Chill for one hour in refrigerator before serving. Enjoy!
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TRAVEL i n t o
SUMMER ROAD TRIP TO KEY LARGO
ROADTRIP
A GLAM GIRLS' TRIP TO KEY LARGO The Ultimate Girls Getaway Spot in the Keys Complete with a Spa, Activities and Food Galore If you follow along on my Instagram you probably saw that I recently returned from Key Largo, which is located in the Florida Keys and has become one of my favorite spots in the sunshine state. With it being just a 4 hour drive from Orlando, I have been to the Keys multiple times over the years. After you see these photos and story, you'll see why I always keep me coming back! For this press trip, I will be staying at the beautiful beach resort, Playa Largo Resort & Spa after my drive from Orlando.
Think of Playa Largo as your ideal Girls' Getaway destination on the beach, but without all the crowds. Instead, you’ll find ocean views, succulent foods, frosty cocktails, kid-friendly day camp and adult-friendly everything. My unparalleled experience begins when I enter the grand lobby, where I find a beautiful water fountain and views out to the ocean and pool. Everyday stresses start to melt away upon check-in, thanks to the yummy spirited drink handed to me at the front desk. After being whisked through the lush landscape, I enter my king guest room. I instantly feel the comforts of home, but I’m delighted in knowing the amenities of this haute resort are at my fingertips. After settling in, a walk through the property is in order. Enjoying my steps through this island paradise, I look to the inviting pool and cabanas. But I leave that for another time as I’m already feeling refreshed from the car ride and ready to soak in the days ahead. That night, I indulge in a media dine for our group, during which the chef happily caters to everyone.
Melisa and Emily 22 | FOUROFFICIAL.COM
There’s so much more to explore here, and much can be enjoyed (or arranged) right there on Playa Largo’s posh property. We got to enjoy several water and adventurous activities such as parasailing, snorkeling, and a sunset cruise! But if relaxing and pampering is more your style, no worries! They have a beautiful full service spa right on property called Ocean Spa. Some of the treatments offered are: Tropical Body Glow Body Massage Moisturizing Facial Energizing Facial Soothing Facial Aroma Cool Wrap Sea Mud Mani/Pedi Hair & Makeup Services For guests who believe that calories still count on vacation, personal training classes are available at Playa Largo’s 1,500 square-foot gym. Story continues on page 26 >
Above Many services are offered at the Ocean Spa, including massage.
When in Key Largo, you will be submerged in it's natural beauty and serene environment.
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WATCH
Our New
web tv series
Follow along as Melisa Kennedy shares adventures through her true authentic storytelling. The series promises to nourish its followers with quality, family-
FOUROFFICIAL.COM
friendly programming accessible 24/7 and across all screens.
Ocean Spa at Playa Largo The posh waiting area where you can relax before your service begins.
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Last but certainly not least, let's discuss the food and dining atmospheres available at Playa Largo Resort & Spa. My personal favorite was Sol By The Sea. It's breathtaking ocean views (pictured above) is something you'd see on television! It's really this pretty and the food matches the spectacular views. Whether you want to just enjoy a nice cold cocktail or beer, or enjoy an entire meal, there's plenty of options here on property. There’s much more to explore here. So may I suggest, if
Above The hammered copper tub and gorgeous kitchen with the original icebox!
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you do venture off property to eat, look no further than The Fish House—which was featured on Food Network's Diners, Drive-ins, & Dives! It's half restaurant, half local market. It's got a really cool vibe and local fare, which is what I love. Well, that does it for my 3day adventure to Playa Largo in Key Largo, Florida. For more information or to book your stay, please go to playalargoresort.com or call (305) 853-1001.
A LOOK AT NEW HOMES Providence Gated Golf Community • Just 15 Miles from Disney World on US 17-92
Executive Homes are starting in $390's
ABOUT
They offer prime location, with lots directly on the 18 hole cham pionship golf course, these oversized lots in Heritage Green provide an environment for your perfect Florida lifestyle.
Longtime residents of Providence Golf Community already know how great it is to live there. But the new luxury homes built by ABD are real stunners.
Surrounded by lovely green hills and peaceful lakes, the houses that make up Heritage Green are nothing less than spectacular in design. Customization options are open and flexible so that each home built in Heritage Green by ABD has its own signature style.
With Executive Homes starting at $390,000 and Estate Homes starting at $470,000, Heritage Green is where Providence’s grandest executive and estate homes are located. 29 | FOUROFFICIAL.COM
IMAGINE YOURSELF IN A PICTURE PERFECT HOME.
BUILD YOUR
These beautiful new homes are just southwest of Orlando, where
DREAM
you will find vibrant lifestyles thriving under golden sunlight. Our golf community in the city of Davenport is truly the best value and
HOME
countryside living in Central Florida.
STOP BY FOR A VIEWING TODAY! ABD Development Company 131 Chadwick Drive
Davenport, FL 33837
(863) 420- 2100 | providenceflorida.com
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THE F O Y T I C I L P SIM G N I N GARDE STORY BY MELISA KENNEDY
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ING N E D R A G ROSE L FOR REA RS BEGINNE Pruning your plants, shrubs, and trees is an essential part of the gardening process. It helps to promote healthy growth, remove diseased or dead growth, and control size. Rose bushes - as I am finding out - are no different. They need proper pruning too. I treat my climbers and shrub roses the same as I would other blooming shrubs: prune after they finish blooming. After rabbits and squirrels got after my precious new shrubs I received for Mother's Day, I quickly had to learn how to care for the damaged canes and bare branches. Roses that repeat bloom, like we have here in Florida, such as hybrid teas, Floribundas and miniatures, are pruned mostly to shape the plant or remove dead or damaged canes. If they become overgrown, cut them back! One last tip - proper pruning is best done with the proper tools and protective gear as I have quickly learned. Try investing in a good pair of gloves to protect your hands from thorns. Happy Gardening, Melisa
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SOUTHERN GEORGIA
A GREAT PLACE TO DINE & RELAX
Bill relaxing on the front porch of a Jekyll Island historical home.
HISTORY & GOOD FOOD melisa & bill kennedy
The history of these two southern Georgia
Just a short drive from Jekyll Island is the
towns - Jekyll Island and Savannah - is
beautiful historical downtown of Savannah.
nothing short of fantastic. Jekyll Island was
As fans of Paula Deen, we made it a point
home to a private club for the rich and
to eat at her famous (and yummy!) Lady &
famous. Famed as a hunting and
Sons Restaurant. While there, we even got
recreational club, this was the summer
to meet Paula's son, Jamie Deen!
playground for many wealthy American families, notably the Morgans, Rockefellers, and Vanderbilts.
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AVAILABLE NOW Since the invasion, humans are either
POSITIVES OR NEGATIVES WHICH BLOOD TYPE ARE YOU?
A NEW DYSTOPIAN THRILLER! GET AUTHOR SIGNED COPIES ONLY AT BLOODOFTHEKINGDOM.COM
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rvshare.com/rv-rental
loveinstills.com
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