Elegant Island Living October 2018 by Elegant Island Living Media Group

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PUBLISHER’S LETTER

Get Out and Vote “Volunteering is the ultimate exercise in democracy. You vote in elections once a year, but when you volunteer, you vote every day about the kind of community you want to live in.” - AUTHOR UNKNOWN

Celebrating �1 Years in Business 28 Market Street, Suite 124 St. Simons Island, GA 912.638.5100 12

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Nancy Butler, EIL Publisher David Butler, and Karen Manning at the 2016 Humane Society of South Coastal Georgia’s Blue Jean Ball

ith literally hundreds of nonprofit organizations registered here in the Golden Isles, there are plenty of opportunities for everyone to become involved with a charity that supports their favorite cause. The EIL staff really cares about our local nonprofits. Every member of the EIL family gives their time and money to support various local nonprofits. It’s not a part of their job description. It’s a way of life. We try not to just “tell you where and when an event is being held,” but rather tell you an interesting story about the nonprofit organization to encourage you to get involved. In fact, with approximately half of our editoral pages each year devoted to supporting nonprofits, we are passionate about promoting local fundraisers and organizations. Our advertisers are some of the biggest local nonprofit supporters and continue to inspire us to promote local events that help our community.

There are a variety of ways that you can get involved. For example, you could donate supplies. For a women’s center or a homeless shelter, this might include bedding or gift cards to grocery stores. A food bank will need non-perishable and canned goods, and an animal shelter might need animal food, blankets or toys. You could also become a monthly donor and give money directly to your preferred nonprofit. If money is tight, simply give your time. A lot of local nonprofits here rely on the work of volunteers to help them complete day to day tasks. There is always a local nonprofit that needs your help. So, ask a friend where they volunteer, or go online and find an organization that fits your skill set. You’ll be happy you did!

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Elegant Island Living is published monthly. Reproduction of any photographs, artwork, or copy prepared by Elegant Island Living is strictly

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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Lorraine Aiken Annaliese Kondo Catherine Maybank Fr. Tom Purdy ON THE COVER: When you’re in the Grand Salon of Chateau Vau-le-Vicomte, you simply MUST twirl! Read about how gorgeous settings and this wee muse helped inspire a local business owner studying and working in Paris. Cover photography by Annaliese Kondo, Studio PixelPop

CONTRIBUTING P H OTO G R A P H E R S

Lindy T. Cofer Annaliese Kondo, Studio PixelPop Peacock Photo Video Brooke Roberts Photography Tim Rude, Fierce Strategy + Creative John Toth, The Darkroom Photography

20 T R AV E L

20 An Artist’s Inspiration Abroad LOCAL

ECO NO M Y

34 Weddings Are Big Business in the Golden Isles COMMU N I TY

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42 New Venue Same Vine 50 A Culinary Experience to Conquer Cancer

contents

52 Survivors Hit Runway for a Cure 54 More Happy Tails

BU S I N ESS

57 Spooktacular Soirée

66 Here for Your Health

COASTA L

P R O F I L ES

L I V I N G

44 Behind the Best Of 60 The Pinnacle of Coastal Retirement 72 Signature Properties Welcomes New Agents SPOTLI G H T

64 LSSI: Preservation Partners and Neighbors

I S L A N D

I MP R ESS I O N S

70 Icon or Iconoclast?

74 Business Buzz 78 What’s Happening 80 Social Scene 96 Real Estate 130 SSI Archives

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AN ARTIST’S INSPIRATION W O R D S

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All children are born artists, the problem is to remain an artist as we grow up. –

here is surely nothing like a child to remind you of the raw ability to create art, the art that waits inside of you, wishing for you to breathe life into it. So often we get sucked into the routine of our “adulting” and find reason to believe that anxiety and chores are all that remain for our future. We are constantly checking our phones for

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I don’t know what reason. Do we expect them to turn into magical unicorns that will whisk us away from the bills, the housework, and the job? Certainly we don’t take moments out of our day often enough to believe in the impossible, to create something novel, to make believe or play. That is, unless you have a child. It is then that you have a very legitimate excuse, as well as a duty, to indulge in these (continues)

� photographed my own masterpiece, Emil�n, with the lace umbrella that she was so prou� of in the very �arden in which the master, �onet, spent countless hours �ainting and dreaming. Somehow, I know he would hav� loved to have painted her amon� his flowers. 22

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moments with them. I am lucky enough to have my daughter, Emilyn. I find it rather sad though, to think that once these early years are gone, her desire to be creative will diminish along with my excuse to live in those spectacular moments with her. To say that I have tried to hold onto the art of creating from an uncensored imagination like a child is an understatement. I am, after all, a professional artist. Photography is an art, as is graphic design. But after years of being constrained by rules, guidelines, deadlines, truths and standards that we are expected to know and abide by in the design and photography world, the joy of creation can become shelled into an anxious pressure to be perfect. Although I work in the artistic field on a daily basis, my incorporation of the unbridled, nonsensical joyous art of my childhood was a strain. I saw my little girl creating things from her heart, but found that I was only being creative while on assignment, rarely for the sheer joy of it. In 2011, the month that I turned 28 years old, I opened the doors to Studio Pixel Pop on Monck and Newcastle streets in my hometown of Brunswick. Since that time, “The Studio” and I have settled into the comfortable cocoon of doing business in the Golden (continues)

Without prompting, she carefully smelled the flowers, found awe in the butterflies, and contemplated his water lilies with wonderment.

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Showroom Hours Monday-Friday 10-5 D E S I G N • A N T I Q U E S • F U R N I S H I N G S • G I F T S • ACC E S S O R I E S 3 2 9 5

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grasses in a different color daily. The brides and events I photograph are all just as unique as the shades of color in our marsh grasses. They are all dear to me and inevitably find a place in my memories and inside my heart, but I felt that somehow I was missing out on the art inside of me, like it was slipping away with the days, the years. I was capturing the essence of the art inside of others and making art from their most incredible moments, yet I was no longer in tune with what was stirring within me. I needed to tap back into my freer self and see what was still waiting within. What better way than to go to Paris to experience dreams, love and light, with my daughter and muse, Emilyn.

Isles, one of the most picturesque places on earth, and my small company has ebbed and flowed with triumphs, setbacks, and everything in between. I am a wedding and event photographer, taking photos of beautiful people on the day they look their very best, in a place more breathtaking than many can imagine. I am surrounded by a community of wedding professionals, florists, caterers, venue managers, other photographers, and event designers, who, like me, do their very best job every single weekend with every single event. We live

a charmed life here on these islands whether we realize it or not. A simple drive across our causeway is a constant reminder of how incredible this corner of the earth really is. My Nonna used to tell me each time we crossed the causeway that the marsh grass was a different shade of brown or green than I had ever seen it be before. I was thrilled by the idea that there were unlimited colors here, a new way to see things each and every day. Even up to this moment, the light still illuminates the marsh

And so it was that I turned 35 aboard the Diamant II, sailing along the Seine River in Paris, as a student. I was surrounded by about 80 other students who were studying abroad within the University System of Georgia, European Council, Paris. Dressed in their finest, they were glittery and gleaming, captured in the same state of awe as I was. Classical music played as the sun set on Notre-Dame to our left and the people of Paris watched from the river banks. We had done this thing. We were going to live and study in France for the next five weeks. Tonight we would eat fine French food and taste wine made from French grapes. The musicians played “Happy Birthday” and my little girl and I danced together and laughed wholeheartedly. We may as well have floated right up into the sky that night when the Eiffel Tower lit up. In the midst of our wonder-stricken euphoria, that tower elicited a resounding gasp from the entirety of our group the moment it began to not only glow, but twinkle. For the next several weeks, I would photograph one of the world’s oldest and most beautiful cities, paint in the some of the world’s best parks and finest gardens. I would sketch in the Louvre, Versailles, and Luxembourg Garden. I would experience life in the old haunts of Picasso, Monet and Hemingway – and my four year old would be there with me. She would learn the same techniques that I (continues)

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to sell them one of my paintings. I may have always wanted to be an artist, but I have never wanted to be a starving artist. Graphic designers and photographers make money. A momma in the park with her four year old is not making money, although sitting there in the cool grass, with the sun on their faces, their lives are becoming enriched beyond measure. The girl sketching while sitting on the floor of the Richelieu wing in the Louvre is not getting paid, but she can close her eyes and see from memory the morning sun illuminating some of the greatest stone works of art in the world – the soft shadows giving the marble depth and clarity. Let me tell you, that is worth something. I have always had the need and desire to make my own money and likely always will. But what I don’t need is to look back at the years and wonder why I didn’t put it all on hold to paint in Paris with my kid. I needed balance. How many people look back and think, “Wow, I really wish I had worked more. I wish I had been away from my family more. Taken fewer vacations.”? I had to make this happen. I had to take a deep breath and take a risk. I feel like I quite literally had to go to Paris.

practiced during class. She would visit incredibly inspiring places to paint with me. We would be artists together in Paris. I simply could not ask for more. I completed college over a decade ago in California with the city of San Francisco as my campus. Every course I took at FIDM was digital and oriented for marketing purposes. The class26

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es were difficult. The teachers were renowned in their fields. The pace was fast and challenging. The degree I received has allowed me to work as an artist every day since graduation. It was the most relevant expression of art for an entrepreneur who wanted to have a real income. When I was three years old, I told my parents that I wanted to be an artist. My goals have never changed. It was also at that time that I offered

Clint Samples, Associate Dean for Special Projects & Professor of Art, University of West Georgia, says, “Growing up is tough on an artist. Life sets in and many artists have family commitments and bills to pay once they graduate. The creative joy and freedom we had as kids can easily fade away in today’s 9 to 5 world. The ultimate goal is to hold on to our creative selves despite all of this. For Annaliese and others in the EC Study Abroad program (including the faculty), five weeks away in Paris was a wonderful opportunity to recapture that time lost and to rediscover why we chose ‘artist’ as our title and our goal in life.” At 35, I was far from the traditional student. I was at least a decade older than my classmates and was constantly mistaken as faculty. I found myself in this strange role, playing a (continues)

Students strike a pose in the hall of mirrors in the palace of Versailles

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View of Paris from Montmartre

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sort of older sister part to the group. 20-somethings are not an age group I would normally

have an opportunity to bond with, so this trip provided me a unique opportunity to form relationships with a collection of people from whom I would otherwise be disconnected. I believe that the fifteen years from age 20 to 35 can dramatically change a person. In many lives, some of the most significant foundations of who we are in this world are laid during these years. These kids had found their way to do part of their most important growing in Paris. It was a thrill for me to observe them soaking that city in and to see their interactions with my child. Many students and faculty alike went out of their way to make her feel included and loved. I do not take lightly the impact these young people have had on her life. Although our time with them was relatively brief, I hope she will remember their willingness to take time with her, to be expressive and kind. I hope she remembers their efforts to make us both feel as much a part of the group as anyone, despite our strange ages. The faculty of the EC Paris program was proof of the impact that living, studying, or working abroad can have on a life, a career. Luc D. Guglielmi, Ph.D., Associate Professor of French, Kennesaw State University, and Kenneth P. Kirk, Ph.D. Professor of Music, Valdosta State University, Co-Directors of European Council of Georgia Paris Program, along with the invaluable Dr. Brian Mann, Professor of Mod-

ern Languages, University of North Georgia, orchestrated a program to be envied. They delivered exceptional, meaningful experiences to the students, all the while maintaining an exemplary standard in academic credibility and excellence. College of Coastal Georgia students have many opportunities to raise money to help fund the trip. Thanks to the kindness of Wayne John-

son, President/CEO, The Coastal Bank of Georgia, and his donation to the College of Coastal Georgia Foundation, several students including myself received scholarships that alleviated the financial aspect from our studies. Because of the generosity of our locals and their insight into the residual value of the study abroad experience for our residents, the entire Golden Isles community will reap (continues)

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the benefits of the students’ experiences as they enter our work force. That applies to the entire state of Georgia. As more students enroll with the UGS European Council, more students will return with increased maturity, flexibility, and better ability to adeptly handle global or multinational challenges. They will also demonstrate greater resourcefulness and the drive needed to excel in their fields.

offered to loan me a coffee pot instead of selling me one since I only needed it temporarily. His friends overheard me talking about needing to find a print shop that was open on Sunday and not only went home and printed my files but walked over and left them in the mailbox later that night. Through broken English and broken French, my parents formed friendships in that town that I believe will last a lifetime.

Of course, Emi could not go to class with me, and I was certainly not going to Paris without her, so something had to be figured out for her care while I was in class or working. My amazing dad and stepmom stepped in: “We will come and take care of Little Bit.” They were serious. They got passports, bought airline

There is a common stereotype of the French being …well … not nice. Meanwhile, Southerners are nice even when they are not necessarily being nice. I was quick to hide my smile on the streets and to mind my cultural manners the best that I could. When we entered a restaurant or store we immediately said “bonjour.”

Waiting for the train with Gobbies (Grandparents)

tickets and secured an awesome and incredibly reasonably priced Airbnb in a little place called Villejust in the French countryside just outside of Paris. It was an easy 45 minute commute to Paris and just far enough away to boast every bit of the small town character as Belle’s hometown in Beauty and the Beast. (In fact, I couldn’t get its opening song out of my head for a week after seeing “the baker with his tray like always” one morning just after sunrise!) We made friends with and were helped beyond belief by the locals. Ali, the proprietor of the local market, just next door to the town patisserie,

We always said “s’il vous plaît” and “merci.” In my interactions with the French in shops, museums, businesses, my kindness was almost always met with kindness, albeit a more abrupt version of the kindness we tend to deliver here in the South. On the sidewalk or loading in or out of the subway, no one is going to move over to get out of your way, and they aren’t going to randomly strike up a conversation with you either. I tried to keep this in perspective as a visitor there and, really, I can sympathize with them. Parisians share their roads and sidewalks with a staggering 83 million visitors a year.

That’s far more than New York or L.A., and for a city with a much smaller physical size and population, that’s a lot of people with whom to share your space. We get fussy when a car with out of state plates gets in front of us in the roundabout on the island. Imagine contending with all those people, everywhere you go, and, to make it worse, they don’t speak your language and have the most ridiculous grin plastered on their face. These poor city residents are likely just trying to get to work while the visitor blocking them from their train has their face buried in their Rick Steve’s guide to crèpes. I had heard that the markets were something not to be missed. I am so glad we followed through on the advice to explore and experience this part of their daily lives and to simply watch the French be French. At the market they truly came alive. They met their regular vendors with warmth and laughter, they joked and hugged. When we tried to order from the cheese monger and obviously were not going to be able to communicate, a lady made her way across a crowded area to stand with us and translate. She told me she loved to speak English and rarely had the chance, so this was a treat for her. At another stand we were helped by a man while trying to buy strawberries and he even tried to haggle a better deal for us, with no luck. Emilyn racked up more free fruit from generous vendors than she could eat at the food market and more toys than we could bring home from the flea market. In the subway, strangers would pat Emilyn on the head. One day she had her feet on the metro seat and the man across from us, a very well dressed gentleman about my age, made eye contact with her and gently reached over and pulled her feet down from the seat. In a restaurant, a waiter simply picked her up and put her in the booster seat. The French were helping to make sure my child felt loved, knew the rules, and had what she needed. They seem to think of children as a collective body of little people who deserve a little bit of extra attention and effort. There was no reason to feel (continues)

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“creeped out” or offended by what they did. When I sent a nervous message to Dr. Carla Bluhm, Ph.D., Psychology faculty at Coastal College of Georgia, about keeping my young daughter safe in the city, the weight of my worry was instantly lifted by her simple response: “Paris will not hurt you. Paris is there to heal you.” She was right. They were Parisians, making us feel like we were a part of their life, their world. For that, I am eternally grateful. French indulgences for children abounded. When visiting the renowned cooking school, Le Cordon Bleu, we quickly saw why the establishment had the reputation as one of the finest hospitality education institutions in the world. You could tell instantly that operations were fluid and everything about the place was as satisfyingly perfect as a well-planned meal. After an incredible lunch, a man who seemed to be a manager brought a shiny silver pin over to Emi and pinned it to her shirt. He then pointed to the same pin on his lapel, indicating to her that she was now a part of his team. The gesture was small but had a big impact. She felt important and special. We were being treated with respect and kindness by someone who could have easily not given us second thought. I went to Paris looking for something I had lost some time back in college. It was that thing inside of me that allowed me to love myself and the beautiful things around me uninhibitedly. The thing that let me create art like a child, without a care as to what someone else may think of it. I began to feel it again our second day there, while aimlessly wandering Monmartre alone for hours. There was no need to OPPOSITE PAGE: Display at Magasin Sennelier, the 130-year-

old paint shop that invented oil pastels for Picasso

explain why artists had historically been drawn to this city and to this neighborhood in particular. The reasons were all around me; they were in the stones beneath my feat, in the breeze and sounds that surrounded me. I could imagine a thousand stories for every road I walked down, a thousand paintings for every gargoyle perched upon the Sacré-Cœur Basillica. There was no better magic in the world that night than the magic I felt realizing a dream coming true and a passion renewed on the streets of Paris. Five weeks later, I would return home with three Parisian photo shoots under my belt. The first, a triumphant story of 6 30" balloons above my head on a metro train car and Beryl Robertson, a 2018 Glynn Academy grad with highest honors. Now, at Oberlin College, she has the world at her feet and, for a moment that morning, the Eiffel Tower was all hers too.

My dream of becoming a professional artist became reality when Studio Pixel Pop opened its doors but as they say, “you never stop learning.” Somewhere in the midst of those days in Paris I learned that it is okay to indulge in the childish joy of art and to feel each moment of its creation without doubt or fear. I learned that, when I let go of the anxiety and let my heart tell the lens what my eyes see, the magic I feel inside is realized forever in the photograph. The foundations of design and business have long been there. Upon them I have photographed our beloved Golden Isles and her live oaks, sunny beaches, and blue-green-goldbrown marshes with skill and dutifulness. My past brides have said that my photos are like works of art, and I dare say I agree. Hopefully my future brides will tell you that my art captured not only the essence of their moments, but some insight into the artist’s inner enchantment, within the pages of their albums. Kenneth Kirk, Co-Director, European Council of Georgia Paris Program said of the photos I took there, “Because Annaliese is a professional photographer, I expected her pictures to be very good. But they’re not just very good, they are extraordinary. Every single one is a work of art.” In Paris with my little muse, I was able to find the art within me once again. It has been said that “Paris exists to remind you that your dreams are real.” For me, it did just that.

I saw the first morning light fall on my subjects in the courtyard of the Louvre. I watched as young adults danced in front of my lens and surely felt as amazing as they looked. They were dancing in Paris and they were the only people in sight. I photographed my own masterpiece, Emilyn, with the lace umbrella that she was so proud of in the very garden in which the master Monet spent countless hours painting and dreaming. Somehow, I know he would have loved to have painted her among his flowers. Without prompting, she carefully smelled the flowers, found awe in the butterflies, and contemplated his water lilies with wonderment.

For more about me, my photography, and this trip, visit my blog at studiopixelpop.com. For additional information about the UGS European Council Study Abroad program, visit ecstudyabroad.net/paris.

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ELEGANT ISLAND LIVING B R O O K E R O B E R T S P H OTO G R A P H Y

wedding is a magical time and when it comes to nuptial celebrations, the Golden Isles are a spectacular location for the perfect wedding. With majestic live oaks draped with Spanish moss, picturesque beach and marsh locations, and a wide variety of amenities and available activities, there’s something here for every bride’s dream and the enjoyment of her wedding guests. Brooke Roberts of Brooke Roberts Photography says, “We are extremely lucky that the charm of our community is making us a destination wedding hot spot. So much so that the national wedding industry, blogs and influencers are also starting to take notice.” And we are indeed a destination wedding hotspot; last year, there were 1717 weddings in the South Georgia Coast* region and Glynn County accounted for 716 of those weddings. Our welcoming community and local wedding industry professionals play a big part in making the occasion and the time spent in the Golden Isles special for the happy couple and their guests. Brooke continues, “In the 12 years we have been photographing weddings, it’s an absolute regular occurrence to hear guests at weddings talking about how they have never visited the Golden Isles before and have instantly fallen in love with the area. They

in the Golden Isles

mention that now that they have discovered it they can’t wait to come back again and have more time to explore.” Stacy Bass of Straton Hall Events agrees, telling us, “Once people come to the gorgeous Golden Isles for their destination weddings,

To take a closer look at the effects on the area, the Golden Isles Wedding Association and the College of Coastal Georgia (CCGA) partnered up to create a study of the size and economic impact of the wedding industry on the South Georgia Coast, with a specific focus on Glynn County. Dr. Don Mathews the Director of the Reg Murphy Center for Economic and Policy Studies at CCGA conducted the studies using estimates from input-output models constructed from local and regional industry data for 2017 and impact multipliers estimated with IMPLAN economic modeling software. IMPLAN is an economic impact assessment software system that combines a set of extensive databases concerning economic factors, multipliers and demographic statistics with a highly refined and detailed system of modeling software. P E A C O C K P H OTO V I D E O

are big business

they’re in love! It becomes their new go-to vacation spot. They come back year after year.” Not only does that mean money is brought in to the community through the wedding, but from the other activities they participate in and future visits. Stacy stresses that the impact of that is far-reaching, “Of course it makes a huge impact on the bars, restaurants and tourist specific businesses, but gas stations, grocery stores, the gambling boat, the trolleys, fishing charters, nail and hair salons, the pharmacies, convenience stores, golf courses, cart & bicycle rentals, horse stables … EVERYONE is positively affected.”

Justin Henshaw, President of the Golden Isles Wedding Association, and Dr. Mathews shared their findings with Elegant Island Living and the results are impressive. The study calculated that the average wedding cost for a wedding in (continues)

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the United States is $26,720, and that’s not including the honeymoon. Notably below the national average, $22,649 is the average cost for a wedding in the state of Georgia. In Glynn County, the average amount spent on a wedding was $26,483. That’s a remarkable number when you consider that the Georgia number includes the Atlanta metropolitan area, and our little island paradise ranks higher on that national scale. It’s even more impressive when you consider that the revenue directly generated by the wedding industry in the South Georgia Coast region exceeds $46,000,000. That’s 46 MILLION dollars on weddings alone. Incredible! Discussing the outcome of the study, Dr. Mathews said, “Weddings in the Golden Isles are a big deal compared to other areas in the U.S. Within our region, the wedding industry is essentially comprised of small entrepreneurs and, since we are a smaller community without a lot of large corporations and industry, that means it brings big business to the area and has a more significant impact on the economy than it does in other locations and larger metropolitan areas.” Dr. Mathews also says the $46,000,000 is just the tip of the iceberg, so to speak, as it only takes into consideration the core wedding expenses. He explains, “The economic impact listed is the impact of expenditures on the wedding only. It does not include hotel stays and meals, shopping, etc. of wedding guests or even the wedding party. So the full economic impact of weddings is larger than the $46 million.” This got us thinking about just how far-reaching the effects of being a destination wedding location is for the Golden Isles. It’s amazing the number and variety of vendors that provide products and services for weddings and comprise what we call the wedding industry. We all know about professions like caterers, wedding planners, florists and entertainment at weddings. 36

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The economic impact study states in Glynn County alone, there are 395 people employed directly because of weddings. In the entire South Georgia Coast, that number goes up to 665 people. But the total number of people employed locally who are directly impacted by the wedding industry is much higher than that. The $46,000,000 figure mentioned earlier is just the direct amount of what is spent on weddings in the area and injected into the economy of the South Georgia Coast. Not

The economic impact listed is the impact of expenditures on the wedding only. It does not include hotel stays and meals, shopping, etc. of wedding guests or even the wedding party. So the full economic impact of weddings is larger than the $46 million.

only does it not take into account all the related expenses like accommodations for the wedding party and guests or any shopping and activities that they’re doing while they’re here, it also doesn’t address the ripple effect beyond the wedding industry. When you see a family out to eat and you know the husband is a hotel landscaper and his wife is a hair stylist, you can be sure that their household income is impacted by the wedding industry. And now so is the server they tip and the employees who made their meal! Even in businesses that are not typically connected with the wedding industry, on weekends when weddings are occurring, they may become busier and need to add staff during those times to handle additional workload based on the increased

“traffic” generated by the weddings. Think of it like a grocery store having to open an additional check-out lane, and having to bring an another employee to man that lane. So you can see, the effects are much farther-reaching than just your bridal shops, florists, photographers, and wedding vendors and venues – although it all starts with them. For example, Lindsey Maroney from Beachview Event Rentals & Design, explains, “Beachview Event Rentals & Design is a family business that currently employs 84 individuals that represent families in our community. Families that are buying houses, sending children to daycare, picking up groceries on their way home and attending local sporting events. We take our responsibility to these individuals and their families very seriously and as such aim to provide an exemplary service to our clients so that the wedding and event industry will continue to grow in this area.” The wedding industry is clearly a vital component of the economies of Glynn County and the South Georgia Coast and has a wide-reaching effect that touches all of us here in this destination wedding community. Lindsey also talked about how social media and the internet has impacted and expanded the growth of the industry here. “Beachview Event Rentals & Design will celebrate its twentieth anniversary next year, and to say a lot has changed in the last two decades is an understatement. We still rely heavily on word of mouth advertising, but we now have a much broader reach due to the pervasiveness of social media. When Beachview first started out, the majority of our clients were locals or individuals who had vacationed here since they were children. Brides are now able to share images and inspiration via Facebook, Pinterest and Instagram inadvertently inviting betrothed couples the world over to our corner of the globe, and THEY COME! Once here, wedding expenses are just a small fraction of the financial impact when it comes to benefitting our (continues)

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37 P E A C O C K P H OTO V I D E O

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Looking at the actual weddings themselves, we reached out to Jessica Smith, a locally-based account executive at The Knot to help us find out more about an average destination wedding here. The Knot is considered one of the world’s leading wedding media and services companies, providing today’s to-be-weds with comprehensive wedding planning information, interactive tools, and resources. Jessica informed us that here in the South Georgia Coast, the average wedding has a wedding party of 10 people and 131 guests in attendance. The weddings usually consist of three days of celebrations and 73% of the weddings take place during the spring and the fall. We turned to Scarlett Starr, the Wedding Catering Manager at The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort to get a better understanding of what an average destination wedding entails when you look beyond just the ceremony. She described a recent large wedding that was fairly typical for the resort. The happy occasion had 260 guests, with half of those guests hailing from northern states, so they wanted to get out and enjoy our beautiful location. After securing 75 rooms at the resort, additional room blocks were arranged for guests at The Inn at Sea Island, Hampton Inn, Village Inn and Pub, Sea Gate Inn, and The Inn by the Lighthouse. ECHO, the restaurant at The King and Prince, served countless meals to in-house guests while other local restaurants took care of the guests at the other hotels. Following the rehearsal dinner and reception, younger guests continued the party at local

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community. Our clients are always asking for recommendations for accommodations, restaurants, entertainment and transportation. Informing the guests of our recommendations is a business in and of itself as welcome packets and baskets are typically prepared to disseminate this information. This community and industry have given so much to us, so we will continue to do our part to provide an exemplary service to clients so they will tell others to come and experience the Golden Isles.”

restaurants and drinking establishments in the Village, Redfern Village, and Longview Shopping Center, with these guests also using paid third party transportation services to take them safely back to their hotels. Groomsmen’s activities included a visit to the Sea Island shooting school, and golf at The Hampton Club and the Brunswick Country Club. Bridesmaids’ activities included a spa day, a champagne luncheon at an island restaurant, and a fashion show on Jekyll Island. Activities to entertain the children included visits to Summer Waves and the Sea Island stables. The rehearsal dinner was hosted at a local rental home and was catered by Southern Soul Barbeque. Scarlett said, “Every day while the bride’s and groom’s families and guests enjoy their stay at The King and Prince, they will call or visit the office to ask where they may find services and items for last minute tasks such as printing, signage, guest bag contents, picture frames, groceries, apparel, and more. The King and Prince concierge worked with wedding guests to arrange activities that included fishing tours, dolphin tours, trolley tours, sailing charters, golf outings and bike excursions.” And that was just for the guests at The King and Prince. Now imagine all those activities for the wedding guests booked at the additional hotels mentioned!

We know the dolphin and trolley tours here have plenty of business! Bunny Marshall of St Simons Trolley told us her trolley transports an average of two wedding parties every weekend. As part of the wedding transportations the trolleys are often rented to go on shopping expeditions to the various boutiques and plazas on the island. Pier Village, Redfern Village, Shops at Sea Island and Shops on Market Street are all destinations where they visit and shop (and spend money, of course). Debbie Peacock of Peacock Photo Video also shared her thoughts about how the impact stretches far beyond the time-frame of the actual wedding. “My brides are a lot of Atlanta girls, and when I was at Tibi over July 4th, I saw seven past brides, so I know they are definitely still shopping and spending money in the Golden Isles. What I see so many times is that my brides come to the Golden Isles to attend a wedding and fall in love with the area, so they come back for their own wedding. Now I am frequently being asked to photograph the new families of my brides who return for yearly vacations with their babies. Their love for the islands and the friendliness of the people that they encounter is what brings them back every year. I am constantly running into brides (continues)

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is rewarding, and we believe that each couple can be confident and comfortable in their vendor and venue selection, thanks to this wonderful new support system.”

to be and former brides at every restaurant and shop on the island.” Justin Henshaw thinks that the information provided by this study is invaluable for those in the wedding industry, and everyone here affected by it – and as Stacy Bass said above, that really is EVERYONE! Justin says, “We are grateful for Dr. Mathews and his team’s work on this study, which serves as proof of the impact weddings have in the Golden Isles. The results are truly astounding! We’ve always speculated and were able to ‘guesstimate,’ but this hard data confirms our speculations. Weddings are significant to our area. Not only do we now know how significant, but we can use this information to influence decisions that affect the wedding industry.” Justin credits the members of GIWA for their role in the study as well, “The study was made possible by our members. The saying is true about ‘strength in numbers.’ We truly couldn’t have done it without every member’s support.” He continues, “We’ve learned so much in this first year since GIWA was founded, and plan to make changes based on what we’ve learned and feedback received. Our focus all along has been 40

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So you can see, the effects are much farther-reaching than just your bridal shops, florists, photographers, and wedding vendors and venues – although it all starts with them.

to protect our area from outside competition; in doing so, we inadvertently protected from within too. As a result, we plan to make our 2019 membership packages more accessible and inclusive, as well as its benefits.” Scarlett Starr believes that GIWA’s role here is important, saying, “The Golden Isles Wedding Association proves to be an invaluable tool for our clients. 90% of our clientele are destination brides, and to finally have one resource that will assist in making the planning process easy, fun, and stress free, is exciting and unique, and something that we look so forward to utilizing! The knowledge that GIWA is comprised of qualified professionals,

Henshaw recaps the first year of GIWA’s existence, saying, “Events this year have been a huge success in bringing together vendors who only usually interact while working events. It’s not just about working together, it’s about working well together. Intentionally connecting and making friends with other vendors strengthens our already amazing reputation in the Golden Isles.” He adds, “We joined the St. Simons Land Trust 1% initiative, donating 1% of all membership sales to the Foundation, because we know that the biggest draw to our area is its unmatched natural splendor. Couples flock to the area for its breathtaking views as a backdrop for their wedding, and, once here, they realize the resources we have to plan and execute their dream wedding day. That’s really special.” Justin stresses that GIWA exists to represent and strengthen this important industry in our community. He says, “We will continue to fight for the Golden Isles and the small businesses that occupy it. GIWA is a voice for small business owners in the wedding industry; we have demonstrated that we can create campaigns and influence commissioners’ votes, and we will continue to do that to protect and strengthen our local interests.” Now with these strong numbers from the study demonstrating just how major an impact the wedding industry made up of these small businesses has here, that voice just got louder. To find out more about GIWA, go to goldenislesweddingassociation.com.

*Footnote: In this study, South Georgia Coast is defined as these eight counties: Brantley, Camden, Charlton, Glynn, McIntosh, Pierce, Ware and Wayne counties, and this includes the Golden Isles.

From work to weekend and everything in between

New Venue Same Vine A

ttention wine enthusiasts and community supporters! The annual Taste of the Vine benefit for Coastal Coalition for Children is planned for Sunday, October 21, and we’re excited to share that it’s in a new venue this year: The Clubhouse at Frederica Golf Club on St. Simons Island. Sample fine wines and heavy hors d’oeuvres, accompanied by music from popular local trio 3 of Us, in this splendid setting where each room is a treasure with grand interiors and impressive art.

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The evening’s festivities take place from 6:00 to 8:30 p.m. and will also include a 50/50 raffle and a silent auction with local, national, and international trips, restaurant and spa experiences and other items offered for bids. Individual tickets to attend the event are $75 per person, but there are also special limited availability expanded ticket opportunities as well. If you purchase a Taste of the Vine Patron ticket ($125 per person), in addition to the Taste of the Vine event ticket, you’ll receive a champagne cruise on Frederica Lake in one of the vintage handcrafted boats during a pre-event hour. A Friend of the Families package ($250 person) will get you a ticket to Taste of the Vine, plus a seat at an intimate chef ’s dinner and cooking demonstration hosted by Keith Schroeder, the James Beard Award winning founder of High Road Craft Ice Cream. The

Friends dinner will be followed by an adult ice cream social featuring High Road Craft Ice Cream. The Friends dinner and demo is planned for Saturday evening, November 3, at Golden Isles Olive Oil & Gourmet Market in Redfern Village on St. Simons Island. You can delight in the knowledge that your attendance helps to create safe, stable and nurturing homes for babies, children, families, and grandfamilies in our own backyard. Taste of the Vine is the signature fundraiser for Coastal Coalition for Children and provides vital funding for the Grandparent Connection, Healthy Families, and First Steps programs. Coastal Coalition for Children is dedicated to the wellbeing of children in our community. Because they know that healthy childhoods begin at home, their mission is to “create safe, stable and nurturing homes” by teaching parents and custodial grandparents how to be better parents. Please join Coastal Coalition for Children as they strive to create lasting change for generations to come. Their staff, board of directors, and the families that they serve are grateful for your participation and support, and gives special thanks to 2018 Presenting Sponsor King & Prince Seafood. For more about Coastal Coalition for Children, available sponsorship opportunities, and to purchase tickets, visit cc4children.org.

BEHIND THE BEST OF by Catherine Maybank

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n a world where online management companies are obliterating the people factor in vacation rentals, a St. Simons Island vacation rental management company stays strong by providing attention to detail and service like no other. Hodnett Cooper Vacation Rentals is not your ordinary property management and vacation rental company. Year after year, the readers of Elegant Island Living vote this company their top choice for vacation rentals in the “Best of ” readers’ choice survey. But what makes Hodnett Cooper Vacation Rentals a fan favorite year after year? What sets them apart? People are part of what makes Hodnett Cooper special. Renting from Hodnett Cooper Vacation Rentals means you are working with a family-owned business and you are booking your vacation with actual people not some anonymous agent. There is a person behind every transaction. And this person cares about your time on St. Simons Island and can help make your vacation time special. (continues)

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Property owners who have placed their property in the care of Hodnett Cooper also find that working with the team of 20+ dedicated staff members is a rewarding experience. Their property is in good hands with the team. They’ve learned a few tricks of the trade over the years.

- GET TO KNOW THE MANAGEMENT TEAM

KRIS MAICHLE

President/General Manager Years in the business: 19

odnett Cooper is able to offer variety. Hodnett Cooper Vacation Rentals has the largest selection of vacation homes and condominiums on St. Simons Island. With over 300 residences (75+ homes, 250+ condominiums) throughout the island, including an amazing representation of condominium residences on the beach, they have the largest inventory of vacation homes available. Ready to dive into vacation with your own personal concierge? Hodnett Cooper Premier has a few select properties in their luxury portfolio of vacation rentals. A personal concierge works with you to plan your trip, making your vacation a smooth and stress-free experience. From stocking your residence with groceries prior to your arrival, planning activities, reserving tee times, arranging a private chef, or planning day-trips, your Premier concierge will to anything to make your stay more enjoyable.

Take Your Brainstorming Offsite to the Beach

Blend Business And Leisure Do a little R & R Ramp up the ROI

What do I like most about my position?

Our team is by far the best I have ever had the privilege of working with! Favorite sports team? Philadelphia Eagles.

E-A-G-L-E-S! Favorite activity/thing to do in the Golden Isles?

My favorite part of the Golden Isles is all the outdoor activities you can enjoy. I love being able to play golf or tennis, go for a bike ride, anything outside! MELLETTE DOBSON

Assistant General Manager Years in the business: 28 What do I like most about my position? It is very gratifying when guests share stories of memories made by experiencing a perfect vacation and we helped make it happen! Favorite sports team? Atlanta Braves of course! Favorite activity/thing to do in the Golden Isles?

Hands down it is kayaking in the marshes. I have done every trip available around here and my absolute favorite is a full moon kayak. Everyone should try it!

Technology is another area in which Hodnett Cooper excels. Sophisticated technology with global reach is more than what most privatelyowned vacation rental management companies can offer, but Hodnett Cooper is able to do just that, and they do it well, boasting a topranked website with online booking capability through hodnettcooper.com. “Property owners and vacationers also appreciate the exposure to other popular thirdparty booking sites like VRBO, HomeAway, AirBnb, Expedia, and many more,” shares Rachel Crisp, Online Marketing Manager with Hodnett Cooper Vacation Rentals. “And while Hodnett Cooper maintains a presence with all of the big boys, you can be assured that you will always get the best deal and the best service by shopping direct through the hodnettcooper.com website.” Social media and digital marketing have increasingly become an important part of Hodnett Cooper’s marketing strategy to reach potential vacationers, and you’ll see the (continues)

A Lifestyle Sandbox is a unique brainstorming approach to refine and redesign your experience at work, lifestyle off hours, and results in both.

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company has a very active following on social channels, especially Facebook and Instagram. If you’re not following them already, you should. They often post specials on their social channels prior to releasing them via any other method. Not on social? That’s okay too. You can sign up to add your name to the list for their regular email schedule with seasonal specials simply by sending an email to the vacation rental team at vacations@ hodnettcooper.com.

shares Kris Maichle. “We consider all of a property’s characteristics before entering it into our rental program. Location, amenities, condition…the list goes on. My staff conducts a thorough site visit and we meet with each owner to outline expectations, goals, and standards.” In addition, each property in their rental program receives regular site inspections to assess property condition.

And if a property needs a little extra attention, Customers also apprecithey’ll take care of that too. ate that Hodnett Cooper “Being in business for over has high standards when 30 years has allowed us to it comes to the condiestablish close relationtion of their properties. ships with local vendors Each Hodnett Cooper in order to assist our propunit in their vacation erty owners. We regularly Kris Maichle, President of Hodnett Cooper rental program has been Vacation Rentals and Pat Cooper, Owner of partner with a local mainproperly vetted. Unlike Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Hodnett tenance company, Seaside Cooper Real Estate hotels, there are typically Maintenance, that is able no industry standards for vacation rentals. to address anything from a leaking faucet to Hodnett Cooper, however, has its own set a full-scale remodel of a property.” Hodnett of standards that properties must meet in Cooper also employs an on-call 24/7 mainteorder to be a part of their rental program. nance service in order to address any issues that “Not all properties are able to list with us,” may occur during a guest’s stay.

Lastly, Hodnett Cooper employs a full-time dedicated inspection team that thoroughly examines each property after a guest’s departure and prior to the next guest’s arrival. Property owners appreciate the attention to detail and extra level of care taken for their property. Equally important, however, guests appreciate the attention to cleanliness and customer service that the Hodnett Cooper team provides with each rental. Change is the only constant in the vacation rental business. Properties may come and go in the program, new booking technologies develop over the years, and a company may welcome new faces to its family of staff. Hodnett Cooper Vacation Rentals is focused on finding the best people, best tools, and best software to do their jobs effectively and efficiently for their property owners and guests. They are currently looking to grow their property inventory and are seeking qualified new properties to welcome to their vacation rental program. If you or someone you know may be interested in learning more about Hodnett Cooper Vacation Rentals, you can check them out online at hodnettcooper.com or follow Hodnett Cooper Vacation Rentals on Facebook or @hodnettcooper on Instagram. If you want to go old school, pick up the phone to give them a call at 912.638.4750.

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A CULINARY EXPERIENCE to Conquer Cancer

he American Cancer Society Victory Board invites you to their 49th annual charity gala, Corks and Forks. Come out to The Cloister on Saturday, December 8th for a memorable chef ’s dinner experience for a cause at Sea Island Resorts.

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“We are truly excited for this year’s gala because we have a large amount of support from our culinary community. We have a very long list of participating restaurants and chefs who are eager to give back to the American Cancer Society by offering their talents at Corks and Forks” says Co-Chair Monica Lavin. A long list of notable restaurants in

the area that will be involved in Corks and Forks includes Del Sur Artisan Eats, Southern Soul Barbeque, The Half Shell, Sea Island Resort, Certified Burgers & Beverage, Delaney’s Bistro & Bar, and Halyards. The event will also feature Chef Scott Crawford, a five-time James Beard Award Semifinalist for “Best Chef: Southeast.” The Raleighbased chef is certainly well-known around the Golden Isles because he was instrumental in helping the Georgian Room at Sea Island achieve five star status in 2007. “We’re excited to welcome him and his family back for this very special event.” says Sea Island’s Director of Food and Beverage Jonathan Jerusalmy. “Anyone who appreciates excellent food and wine, and especially with the ticket sales benefiting the American Cancer Society, won’t want to miss Corks and Forks.”

chef curated dinners. “We’re also honored that Hollis Youngner will be joining us to share her story and how the local community has supported her and her family along their journey,” says Co-Chair Elizabeth Killgallon. She continues, “It’s always so inspiring to hear her story, because it reminds me that this isn’t just another local community event. This event brings us together for a cause that hits home for so many. By supporting the American Cancer Society, we are dedicated to helping find a cure.”

and wine that raises money toward cancer research, local patient support, and prevention. “Everyone has been impacted by cancer whether through family and friends or a personal battle, so planning Corks and Forks is our opportunity to give back to our community,” explains Nancy Bowen.

For the Victory Board Co-Chairs, Nancy Bowen, Elizabeth Killgallon, Meredith Roberts, Monica Lavin and Ashley Johnson, Corks and Forks is all about creating a memorable experience centered around food

If you’re interested in becoming a sponsor, please email CorksandForks2018@gmail.com. Sponsorship levels range from $750-$10,000. Tickets for the event are on sale for $150 each and can be purchased online at acsvictoryboard.org.

“We hope that you will take a break during the busy holiday season and join us at Corks and Forks,” says Meredith Roberts.

P H OTO S BY J O H N TOT H , T H E D A R K R O O M

The December evening will start with a strolling reception where chefs will be offering mouth-watering hors d’oeuvres. “We’re also working with noteworthy wine vendors to provide an incredible wine experience for attendees,” says Co-Chair Ashley Johnson. Along with the food stations and wine pairings during the strolling reception, guests are encouraged to mingle and check out perfectly curated silent auction items, and with Christmas right around the corner, there’s no better time to shop for a cause. The festivities will continue with a seated dinner prepared by chefs Scott Crawford, Jonathan Jerusalmy, Bill Welch and Paul Newman. A live auction will conclude the night with packages ranging from weekend getaways to OPPOSITE PAGE: Participating in the culinary event are

Hernan Stutzer and Alberto Llano of Del Sur Artisan Eats, Sea Island chefs Jonathan Jerusalmy and Paul Newman, and John Helfrich of Southern Soul Barbeque, as well as (not pictured) James Beard Award-winning chef Scott Crawford and chefs from Certified Burgers & Beverage, Delaney’s Bistro & Bar, Halyards, and The Half Shell. THIS PAGE: Victory Board Co-Chairs, Ashley Johnson, Meredith Roberts, Elizabeth Killgallon, Nancy Bowen and Monica Lavin

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Survivors Hit Runway for a Cure Photographs by Lindy T. Cofer

ach year, the local American Cancer Society hosts an October benefit luncheon and fashion show featuring local models who are breast cancer survivors. To honor the thirteen participating models, a special “Meet and Greet” was recently held that welcomed them, as well as the presenting sponsors for the event, the host committee, and representatives from the participating boutiques. Jan and Marty Carriker hosted the event at their beautiful Sea Palms home. The 2018 Presenting Partners for the19th Annual American Cancer Society Breast Cancer Awareness Fashion Show and Luncheon are Vincent K. Arlauskas, MD, Stephen G. Barrett, MD and Bradley Easterlin, MD. Representatives from the Cloister Collection, Evelyne Talman, Gentlemen’s and Lady Outfitters, 52

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Maggie’s Boutique, Planters Exchange, and Shackelford Shoe Boutique met with models to discuss fashion options for this year’s show. The thirteen models will showcase the latest fall fashions at the popular luncheon that will take place on Saturday, October 20 at Sea Palms Resort & Conference Center. Tickets for this exciting event are $40 and may be purchased at Gentlemen’s and Lady Outfitters and Antiques, Etc. For more information, contact Ebonie Cohens, Glynn Community Manager, American Cancer Society at 912.217.7280. The ACS offers free programs and services in nearly every community to help people facing breast cancer. Whether you need help understanding your disease, making treatment deci-

sions, dealing with day to day challenges of living with cancer, or finding emotional support, the ACS is there to help. To speak with a Cancer Information Specialist, call 800.227.2345. They are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Please support their valuable work by attending this year’s fashion show and luncheon. It’s a good time for a good cause. TOP: 2018 Fashion Show Models: (back row) D’Wanda Lee, Doreen Smith, Ken Gaubert, Darlene Trent, Verna Young, DiAna Holmes, Buffy Jobe; (front row) Shirle Beck, Georgia Hanna, Betsey Clark (Not pictured: Cindy Willarson, Lynda Stevenson, Jeannie Otwell) ABOVE (left): Event Planning Committee: Rhonda Barlow, Susan Cox, Jackie Mull, Joy Cook, Event Chair, Kathleen Dawson, Raylene Grykewich; (center): Joy Cook, Event Chair; Presenting Partner, Dr. Bradley Easterlin; Meet and Greet Hosts Jan and Marty Carriker; (right): Boutique representatives: Elizabeth Jordan, Joyce White, Merrill Eden, Kay Miller, Hayley Napfel, Lou Ann Grabo, Ashley Wills.

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T I M R U D E , F I E R C E S T R AT E GY + C R E AT I V E

More Happy Tails Last month, we told you about the Humane Society of South Coastal Georgia’s upcoming Blue Jean Ball and shared some “Happy Tails” of pet adoptions that are made possible through the community’s support of their services. Here is yet another:

e adopted Oscar in 2016. When we visited the Humane Society, Oscar greeted us by jumping into my daughter Blake’s lap like a puppy. It was an easy choice! Oscar is sweet, easy going and lets Blake dress him up. Lulu was adopted as a kitten in 2017. I fell for her instantly because she reminded me of the cat I asked Santa for when I was little. We adopted her the following day. Eventually, LuLu and Oscar became best friends. We love supporting the Humane Society through adoptions and look forward to this year’s Blue Jean Ball.” The Humane Society of South Coastal Georgia is able to make “Happy Tails” like this happen only because of the generous support of donors and funds raised through events like the Blue Jean Ball. This year’s ball takes place under the oaks and lights at Sinclair Plantation, the home of Robin and Davis Love, on November 2 from 6:00-10:00 p.m. There will

be music, dancing, delicious local food, famous desserts from the Southern Baked Pie Company, and an open bar. You’ll be able to purchase raffle tickets at the ball or in advance online, and three lucky winners will each receive $5,000. You’ll also have the opportunity to bid on an array of fantastic silent and BROOKE CARTER Philanthropist live auction items, including two special highlights: a meal for up to six people personally prepared in the winner’s home an appearance on Fox & Friends where he was by Chef Dave Snyder, and an original paintpainting and making friends with a very cute ing by Steve Penley. large canine. He is also the author of several books and has illustrated others, including One of America’s most celebrated artists some with former Bulldogs coach Vince Dool(and especially beloved by many of our locals ey. Steve’s generosity is as bold as his brush because he attended UGA), Steve Penley has strokes, as he has donated countless paintreceived numerous awards and honors for his ings over the years to charitable organizations talents. His works, recognizable for their bold nationwide, such as HSSCG. It is HSSCG’s brush strokes, vivid colors, and often iconic special honor to have Steve present at the Blue subjects, are exhibited Jean Ball to auction one of his original acrylics. worldwide. Steve has

Adopter of Lulu and Oscar

Celebrated artist Steve Penley will be present to auction off one of his original paintings.

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created many projects for Fox News, major companies like Coca-Cola, Kaiser Permanente, AirTran/ Southwest, and several U.S. Presidents too. Ironically, at the time of writing, Steve had just made

So, grab your favorite boots and jeans and come join the party! No need to worry about dressing up for this gala. It’s not about fashion, it’s about our furry friends! Tickets can be purchased online now at hsscg.org/events/blue-jean-ball.

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Glynn Visual Arts and Golden Isles Arts and Humanities are teaming up to present the first ever Monster Mash Bash Halloween costume party. This frightfully fun event will take place on Saturday, October 13 at American Legion Hall #166 in Gascoigne Park on St. Simons Island from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. and it promises to be a ghoulishly good time. Glynn Visual Arts Executive Director Susan Ryles explains, “This is our first joint fundraising event with Golden Isles Arts & Humanities and Glynn Visual Arts. (continues)

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at Everything you need to decorate with this Holiday Season

Visit Ace Garden Center For your holiday décor, inside and out. Topiaries, Crotons and Mums for the front door. Orchids, Bromiliads and seasonal silk flowers and foliage to freshen up inside.

Our organizations want to move toward a ‘Unified Arts Vision’ for all of the arts in our area, both on the islands and the mainland and throughout all of Glynn County.” She and Golden Isles Arts and Humanities Executive Director Heather Heath have joined forces to spark interest and encourage participation in the arts in our community with the common goal of spreading awareness about the value and impact of the arts in this area. And Halloween provided the perfect occasion to do this! Susan adds, “No one has been doing a really fun Halloween costume party in our area and this kind of event fits nicely with the arts. After all, costuming, the construction of costumes is a visual art form that allows people to take on a different persona, which falls into the area of performance arts. It’s a great blending of several art forms.” It’s a brilliant idea! Attendees are encouraged to get creative with their attire for the evening, because there’s a costume contest that will be judged by a “celebrity” panel. Whether you channel your inner battiness like Bela Lugosi, go green like Boris Karloff, or take your cues from Mike and Sully, get inspired! Prizes will be awarded for best costumes, so don’t be afraid to go all out! Since no Halloween party is complete without the “Monster Mash” or howling along with “Werewolves of London,” a DJ will be spinning tunes for dancing and acting as MC for the evening’s activities. You’ll also want to brush up on your knowledge about all things haunt-

SUCCULENTS

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ed, movie monsters, All Hollow’s Eve and such, because there will be some fun Halloween trivia as part of this seasonal celebration. To tantalize your tastebuds, Tasteful Temptations will be serving up delectable hors d’oeuvres and there will be plenty of “Witches’ Brew” to quench your thirst. Tickets are $75 per person or $125 per couple and must be purchased in advance. They include price of entry, eligibility for costume contest, appetizers, and one “Witches’ Brew” ticket. Additional drink tickets will be available for purchase at the event. You can buy your tickets in person at Glynn Visual Arts at 106 Skylane Drive, online at glynnvisualarts.org or goldenislesarts.org or by calling 912.638.8770. Plan on attending with your mummy, your boo, or gather a monster squad and come out. We’re hoping that everyone shows their support for the partnership between our community arts organizations and makes this inaugural joint event a spooktacular success that begins an annual Halloween tradition.

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Lamp Repairs and Custom Lamp Design Located 1.7 miles East of I95 at exit 3 in the Three Palms Plaza in Kingsland.

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The Pinnacle

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Coastal Retirement

arsh’s Edge is an intimate Continuing Care Retirement Community located on St. Simons Island that is the pinnacle of luxury senior living. Located on 37 acres, the breathtaking beauty of Marsh’s Edge is complemented by meandering lagoons, pristine marshlands and mature southern live oak trees draped in Spanish moss. At the heart of this community, is a warm and inviting spirit from friends, neighbors and staff members. This community is changing the way that their Members are experiencing retirement. After all, you’ve earned it. In your home at Marsh’s Edge, you’ll never have to move again. That’s a reassuring and important promise that Continuing Care Retirement Communities offer. Marsh’s Edge provides an active lifestyle, dedicated to maintaining independence with multiple levels of care, should Members need it, all under one roof. A CCRC is the complete package in retirement living and offers a secure community with a multitude of living accommodations and resort-style amenities. Continuing Care Retirement Communities allow you or your loved ones to re-engage with

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by Lorraine Aiken

who you are and what you love. Growing older with people at a similar place in life shapes a vibrant network of caring neighbors and community. At Marsh’s Edge, our Members have access to a full continuum of care which includes Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation. If your needs change, there is no need to relocate, as you’ll be at home in a community of friends and have easy access to the care you require in your own home. “We are committed to helping our Members live longer, healthier, happier lives,” said Chris Thorpe, Executive Director of Marsh’s Edge. The community believes that wellness is the central piece to remaining independent throughout life and for enjoying it to the fullest. CCRCs promote a healthy lifestyle where you have the freedom to engage in wellness classes, participate in social activities, and enjoy fresh culinary experiences. The culinary department at Marsh’s Edge is comprised of upscale chefs who constantly strive to advance delightful cuisine, procure the freshest ingredients, and deliver unique menu items that all Members will enjoy. A country club approach to full-service dining emphasizes variety and quality. Daily specials and seemingly endless menu options are fresh-

ly crafted by the Executive Chef. Carefully selected wine, beer and spirits from the fully stocked clubhouse complement a refreshing culinary celebration. The menu changes daily at Marsh’s Edge and it’s ever evolving to create more than just a meal, but an experience. In addition to country club dining, there’s the opportunity to enjoy a casual meal on-the-go which keeps the experience fresh and balanced. “Our Members don’t have to eat here. We want them to,” says Director of Dining, Geoffrey Gable. Members have an array of dining types to choose from including catering, delivery and takeout. However, Marsh’s Edge stands apart from other retirement communities in the Golden Isles with their unparalleled private dining parties. Perfectly customized menus and high-end cocktails served in an intimate setting are revered among community Members. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday with close friends, holidays with family, or an upscale social event, the staff at Marsh’s Edge is available to curate the event of your dreams. Our Executive Chef works closely with the host/hostess to create the perfect menu for your intimate soirée complete with passed hors d’oeuvres, a variety of courses, desserts, and libations. With (continues)

no cooking or cleanup, you can use those extra hours picking out a perfect outfit and welcoming your guests. Spend time toasting, laughing, and enjoying your event while the Marsh’s Edge staff takes care of the rest. “Wellness is that the core of who we are and what we do,” Thorpe says of Marsh’s Edge’s services and amenities. “It’s rooted in everything we do, from our nutritional dining, to our range of wellness classes, mixture of social events, and, of course, our care services”. Members’ daily schedules include a piece of wellness even if it’s seemingly hidden.

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Daily wellness classes move members through a wide range of exercises, catered to their specific levels of fitness with Wellness Director, Julie Waldo. “In September, we offered seventeen different classes each week” said Waldo, with those classes ranging from pool activities like Aqua Balance and Strength to their award winning WAVES program. While on land, Members grab a workout buddy and practice Barre, Tai Chi for Arthritis, Dance Cardio, and Line Dancing to name a few. “It’s about how many years young you are, not how old. It’s amazing to see how our Members improve,” exclaimed Waldo. The Wellness Center at Marsh’s Edge is home to an indoor heated therapy pool, stationary exercise equipment, weight room and a classroom/aerobic space with classes. And wellness isn’t confined just to this spot in the community, we’re fortunate to be located on St. Simons Island, which is a paradise for outdoor exercise year-round. Laughter erupts from down that hall, it’s a fierce night of music trivia in the lounge. There’s always an event happening at Marsh’s Edge thanks to their full-time Social Director, Stephen Grimes. Stephen is known to the Members as their “Personal Party Planner” and always has a smile on his face as he greets them. He works in conjunction with the Wellness and Culinary Director to plan daily, weekly and monthly social events, clubs, and trips that

help to shape the vibrant network of neighbors and friends within the community. An abundance of events means there is something for everyone and ample opportunity to bond with your neighbors over similar interests. Throughout the month, the social calendar is full of events which include trips to the Symphony of Coastal Georgia, pre-dinner Happy Hours, Model Train Club meetings, Ladies’ Literary Club, Historical Speaker Series, Game Night, Poker Night, live entertainment, trivia, and so much more! The biggest event each month is the Marsh’s Edge “Signature Experience,” an immersive day involving the entire community and local area. Each Signature Experience is uniquely themed and comprised of at least one social, one wellness, and one dining component. “It’s fun to see our Members and staff take on a character for these events” said Stephen. The themes vary each month and their most recent themes have included The Orient Express, Red, White and Bluegrass, and Luau. Jurassic Park is coming in October! Marsh’s Edge also provides maintenance free living which alleviates the need to spend time on everyday housework, cleaning or cooking. This includes full maintenance and repair, housekeeping and deep cleaning, lawn care, security, transportation services, and a flexible dining program. Our Members live a carefree lifestyle so they can travel the world without the worries of home ownership. Each detail of Marsh’s Edge is carefully designed to assure that Members are provided with the best services, amenities, and care. This spirited senior living is constructed to provide a safe community combined with a protective and nurturing approach from team members and leadership. When you choose Marsh’s Edge, you are reaching the peak of retirement living on St. Simons Island. To learn more about Marsh’s Edge or to reserve a private tour, visit Marshs-Edge.com.

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Realtor 540.588.5456 | Tina@gacoastrealty.com

912.638.1144

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1% PARTNER Preservation Partners and Neighbors

hen efforts began to conserve the more than 600 acres now known as Cannon’s Point Preserve on the north-end of St. Simons Island, Hank and Wendy Paulson, owners of Little St. Simons Island, were at the forefront partnering with the St. Simons Land Trust to lead the charge. In their stewardship of Little St. Simons Island (LSSI), the Paulsons have demonstrated a profound commitment to conservation and preservation that is part of the ethos of LSSI. Longtime partners in coastal conservation, the Land Trust and the Paulsons are working together again. Today the partnership between the two barrier islands is strengthened by The Lodge on Little St. Simons Island’s 64

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participation in the 1% for St. Simons Program. The program is a consortium of local businesses working to protect St. Simons Island in partnership with the St. Simons Land Trust, a community institution founded in 2000 to preserve the historic, cultural, and environmental features of the island. 1% for St. Simons is a voluntary giving program, with contributions used for land acquisitions, education and outreach, and public access to parks, waterways, and wildlife preserves. Little St. Simons Island offers 11,000 acres of undeveloped wilderness and seven miles of pristine beaches for exploration and relaxation. Immediately upon arrival, guests become aware that environmental protection is a way of life on LSSI, touching every facet of the island and guiding its daily operations. St. Simons Island, on the other hand, is one of the only islands on Georgia’s coast that does not have significant federal or state protection from development. However, land conservation on St. Simons helps to provide a vitally important buffer between the more developed areas of Glynn County and the world-class Altamaha River estuary and serves as a protection from storm surge. These two barrier islands – one the little sister to the other – are neighbors separated only by marsh and a stretch of the Hampton River. One is privately owned, accessible only by boat to day-trippers and overnight guests. The other is roughly the size of Manhattan and is home to nearly 15,000 permanent and part-time residents.

The Lodge on Little St. Simons Island has retained the charm and unhurried pace of coastal living. Moss-draped live oaks and glistening marshes surround comfortable accommodations for no more than 32 overnight guests. To arrive there, visitors must have a reservation and take a boat from the marina near Hampton Point. Traveling down Lawrence Road to the marina, visitors experience the wilderness corridor created by the hundreds of acres of land that the Paulsons and the Land Trust have worked to preserve. “Hank and I have supported the work of the St. Simons Land Trust since 2011 when the land trust led the effort to protect Cannon’s Point,” says Wendy Paulson. The southern portion of the Altamaha estuary, the Hampton River, tidal waterways, and the salt marsh that lies between Little St. Simons and St. Simons provide feeding and nesting areas for migratory and resident shorebirds, sea turtles, manatees, dolphins, and numerous other wildlife species, and serve as protection from coastal storm surge. “We believe that conserving natural areas on St. Simons Island is critical on many fronts,” adds Mrs. Paulson. “In addition to providing important habitat for native wildlife, and helping to protect the Altamaha delta, these preserves become platforms for nature education and give the public easy access to landscapes that have changed little over the centuries, allowing people to experience the extraordinary

character and beauty of the Georgia coast.” Little St. Simons Island remains virtually undeveloped. While guests enjoy accommodations and services of the highest caliber, the dedication of the island’s owners and staff to maintaining the natural ecological state of the island remains foremost. Daily guest activities are led by naturalists and are designed to encourage an appreciation for and understanding of the island and its ecosystems. It begins the moment guests set foot on Little St. Simons Island, where most ornamental plants on the grounds of The Lodge compound have been removed and replaced by native varieties. It continues with three daily meals that include vegetables, fruits, and herbs grown in the island’s organic garden. The Lodge on Little St. Simons Island is an ideal getaway for individuals, groups, families, family reunions, retreats and business meetings. Stays are all-inclusive of accommodations, boat transfers to and from the island, three prepared meals daily, beverages including soft drinks, beer and wine, all activities including naturalist-led excursions, and use of recreational equipment. Visit littlestsimonsisland.com or call 888.733.5774 to learn more.

Artistically hand carved, casted and created here in The Golden Isles, we offer unique keepsakes that you’ll love to give or receive. No matter the size of your wrist, silver or gold, or a bit of both, we’ll make you something special and lasting.

Meaningful Keepsakes from our Family to Yours Located At #106 Pier Village Market St. Simons Island, GA 912.638.3636 www.GIBCoBracelets.com

If your business would like to participate in the 1% for St. Simons Program, please contact Sara Baker at 912.638.9109 or onepercent@sslt.org.

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Here for Your Health

f you’re in need of healthcare related supplies and equipment, look no further than Jones Medical Equipment. Established in Jesup in 1993 and expanded with a Brunswick location in 2010, Jones Medical Equipment was purchased by Wayne County high school sweethearts and Georgia Southern graduates Kevin and Terri Brake in 2013. And the business just continues to grow. Terri says, “We plan to open a third location in the fall in the Savannah area. Our business has grown so much up there that we are delivering equipment to the area almost every day. We look forward to continuing to grow our business in that market.”

Jennifer McGhin helping client Rick Walter 66

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For Jones Medical Equipment, your quality of life is their business. Terri says, “We are dedicated to providing to our customers the best quality and value in healthcare related products, supplies, and services.” Jones Medical Equipment can provide you with easy access to medi-

Owners, Terri and Kevin Brake

cal equipment when you are homebound or ill, as well as courteous and caring specialists, who can help you to get back on your feet. They offer an array of home health care equipment and supplies, including oxygen and respiratory therapy devices, wheelchairs, and more, so you can purchase or rent quality medical equipment at your convenience. From hassle-free delivery to straightforward billing, you can look forward to a simplified purchasing process. Since Jones Medical Equipment has full-service locations in both Brunswick and Jesup, they can offer double the availability with the same quality service. Jones currently has 17 employees between the two locations. Terri stresses, “Our employees are our greatest asset. They work extremely hard to make sure our customers receive the best service possible.” In order to serve the widest possible range of clientele, they maintain a sizable delivery coverage (continues)

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area in Southeast Georgia that includes areas of Glynn, McIntosh, Camden, Wayne, Ware, and Pierce counties. If you or a loved one needs respiratory care, they have a wide selection of oxygen-conveyance equipment and respiratory therapy services. Don’t worry about hospital visits or trips to the urgent care center, with in-home oxygen conveyance products from Jones, you’ll be able to rest easier in the comfort of your own bed. From delivery to setup and installation and beyond, you can rely on knowledgeable assistance from qualified professionals. They can help you conquer all oxygen-related challenges, whether taking steps toward early intervention, managing short-term or long-term care, or treating recurring symptoms. Jones Medical Equipment professional, highlytrained respiratory therapists are on-call 24/7, will treat you with the respect and care you deserve, and address your needs in a timely manner. Jones can assist you in leading the independent life you want to maintain, one step at a time, with specialized services ranging from in-home therapy to the installation and set-up of respirators and other equipment. You’ll receive advice you can trust from trained professionals who will work around your schedule to ensure that your most important health needs are met, on your time.

If you suffer from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), oxygen levels in your blood can drop dangerously low. This poses risks to your health and has the potential to alter your day-to-day life, including your ability to exercise, perform outdoor activities, travel, and sleep. Jones Medical Equipment can assist you in learning the risks of COPD, and will recommend Oximetry tests to help you understand the impact of the disease. If you need assistance with mobility, Jones Medical Equipment can power your next move by finding the equipment and care regimen that works for you. Their selection of wheelchairs and scooters offer both reliability and affordability. Your satisfaction and quality of life depend on the care you receive and the manner in which your caregiver helps you to maintain your daily health goals. Talk to the experts at Jones to see how you or a loved one can benefit from their variety of wheelchairs and scooters. Whether you need to accommodate a private residence or a full-time facility, Jones Medical Equipment can help you take the next step toward mobility and independence. If you’re new to using a wheelchair, changing bandages or clothes, applying lotions or prescription ointments, and accommodating casts or braces can be a challenge. Jones offers professional care to ensure that your needs are met. They deliver hospital supplies designed for in-home

care that patients and medical personnel need, when they need it. If you require medical supplies not found in stores, contact them today. In addition to oxygen conveyance equipment and mobility aids like wheelchairs, walkers, canes, and crutches, their inventory includes hospital beds, patient lifts and ramps, incontinence products and bath aids. Do you work in healthcare and need to wear scrubs? Jones Medical Equipment can help with that too! They offer an array of products including scrubs, lab coats, uniforms, medical accessories, and more, at prices that often undersell medical catalogs. They have great deals on stylish brands, with plus sizes, tall sizes, and even kids’ sizes, and shoes and accessories too. When you spend $25 dollars or more at Jones Medical Equipment, you’ll receive a punch on your punch card. After 10 punches you will receive $25 OFF your next purchase with them. This even applies to favorite brands like Cherokee, Med Couture, Peaches, Healing Hands and NurseMates shoes. Pick up a punch-card when you visit to track your purchases and earn some savings. Keep an eye out for their biannual uniform sales too! Jones Medical Equipment is located at 3000 Altama Ave. in Brunswick and can be reached at 912.265.7500. Visit their website at jonesmedicalequipment.net.

“I am thrilled to be a part of the DeLoach Sotheby’s team. Their international network will enable me to provide comprehensive service to my clients. The collaboration with Sotheby’s International Realty is what sold me on this opportunity.” • Over 20 years of successfully helping people find their dream homes • Active volunteer in the community. Past President of The Symphony Society, active in Christ Church, St. Simons Rotary, Golden Isles Live and the Coastal Georgia Historical Society. Is Foundation Trustee for the College of Coastal Georgia

Susan Imhoff 912.222.5686 susan.imhoff@sothebysrealty.com DeLoach Sotheby’s International Realty. DeLoachSIR.com | mobile app text SIR to 87778 | 912-638-0406 | 2901 Frederica Road | St. Simons Island, GA MCMVII Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. A Realogy Company. All Rights Reserved. Sotheby’s International Realty® is a registered trademark licensed to Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated.

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ISLAND IMPRESSIONS BY FR. TOM PURDY, RECTOR OF CHRIST CHURCH

ICON OR ICONOCLAST?

ack in August I had an opportunity to participate in a workshop that taught me how to paint a religious icon. Some people call it “writing” an icon, but both terms are correct. Any rate, I spent afternoons for an entire week working on an icon of John the Baptist with an instructor who led a workshop in my parish. I have never done that sort of thing before, and in fact haven’t really used a paintbrush since I was in school for any kind of art. I really enjoyed the experience. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to finish it during the week while the instructor was on St. Simons. Fortunately, there is a group that has formed in my parish that meets weekly to work on painting icons, so I’ve been able to keep whittling away at the icon, getting it ever nearer to completion. Because of all this work with icons, I’ve been thinking a lot about them. Icons, as religious paintings, are an Eastern Christian tradition that have been part of religious devotion since the earliest days of Christianity. Many of the ancient images were destroyed in the first millennium when the church argued about the appropriate use of such images. What was allowed depended on who was in power. When those who did not like icons held power, countless images were forever destroyed. To this day, people struggle to make sense of how an icon is to be used, with some holding the mistaken belief that we pray to the icon. In the Christian faith, an icon bears the image of an important figure in the church’s tradition. The image is meant as a devotional tool to aid one in their prayer, not to be the subject of it. People often sit with icons of persons who hold meaning in their spiritual life, such as Jesus (the most common figure for an icon), the Virgin Mary, or a patron saint associated with their vocation or calling in life. During a previous workshop at the church, a group had painted an icon of Saint Simon, the patron saint of our little island.

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The term icon when removed from the context of religious tradition, has a different, yet somewhat similar, meaning in modern culture. To call someone an icon often means that they are an exemplar in their field. We might look at a highly respected and successful business person or an innovative technological inventor and talk about how they are iconic. All too often the contemporary humans that rise to the level of icon are subject to a form of worship as well. Not necessarily because we consider them divine, but because they are revered with a devotion that borders on worship. Apple fans, for example, had a very elevated view of that company’s figurehead, Steve Jobs. An entertainer who defines their genre can take on almost mythical status, like Elvis Presley, or John Lennon. Just like with religious icons, these cultural icons symbolize something greater than what is on the surface, and also signify something important in our world. The great danger is when we assign iconic status to someone who is not good for human progress or for positive growth and the development of society. We live in a time where the individuals we identify as icons, and the pseudo-worship of them that follows, can threaten some of the fundamental assumptions about what the goodness and greatness of humanity has always aspired to. That’s not to say that the saints in our painted icons were perfect, but our ability to overlook the great imperfections of some modern-day icons is frightening. Ironically, some of these people currently raised to iconic status in the modern era might more appropriately be labelled iconoclasts, the term used to describe the people who destroyed religious icons because they did not like them and what they represented. Many of these modern day “icons” are actually destroying cherished beliefs and institutions, rather than building them up and strengthening them. We must pay very close attention to the images and the personalities we are tempted to worship. We should look carefully at our icons, religious and otherwise, as we might look in a mirror to see what they tell us about ourselves, where they challenge us to be better, and where we fall short. If we worship the wrong type of icon, it could prove to be disastrous, not only for us, but for many others. History often sorts out who should remain an icon worthy of devotion, yet we can’t always wait that long to find out. John the Baptist remains an icon because he pointed toward the greatness of humanity. If only we could say that all our modern-day icons also point us in that same general direction.

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SIGNATURE PROPERTIES WELCOMES NEW AGENTS The are some new faces at Signature Properties Group this fall. They’ve welcomed four new agents in their continued dedication to providing buyers and sellers with the best possible real estate transaction experience.

eal estate has been a lifelong career for Patricia Blackerby. She acquired her Virginia real estate license in 1979 and her Broker license in 1983. She is passionate about helping her clients and provides them with the best personal service. In Pat’s past market area of Hampton Roads, Virginia, she received many prestigious annual awards for her service to her clients. Pat is a good listener, problem solver and a skilled negotiator. You can count on her honesty, work ethic, and tenacity to get your job to the finish line. Pat is ready to put her years of service to others to work for you.

ynthia Brown developed a love for Real Estate as a District Forester selling land for Weyerhaeuser Company. A graduate of Tuskegee University and Iowa State University, Cynthia became a licensed Realtor® in Warner Robins, Georgia in 1998. She practiced Real Estate in Louisiana and Mississippi prior to returning to Georgia and has been the recipient of numerous awards such as: Rookie of the Year, Top Listing Agent, Top Selling Agent, True Blue Award, Bronze Agent of the Year, and Million Dollar Producer. Cynthia is a wife and mother who enjoys spending quality time with her family and participating in her son’s school and extracurricular activities. Cynthia says, “I have always conducted my business by following the Golden Rule.”

achel Marascalco has been an actively licensed Realtor® in the Golden Isles since 2016, and in North Georgia from 2005-2008. In her first year in real estate in North Georgia, Rachel earned the Million Dollar Club designation within her company. She and her husband, Robert, moved to St. Simons Island part time in 2014 and became full-time residents in 2016. In her second year as a Realtor in the Golden Isles, Rachel earned her membership into the Golden Isles Association of Realtors’ Circle of Excellence, the 2017 Honor Society, and a Luxury Specialist Certification. Rachel and Robert are the owners of Coastal Island Charter Fishing and have a son in 7th grade at Glynn Middle and a daughter in 9th grade at Glynn Academy.

olleen Martin began her professional career coordinating and designing weddings for couples, so the transition into real estate where she assists clients with another major milestone: home buying, has been a natural one. A second generation Realtor®, Colleen grew up immersed in the local real estate and vacation rental scene and has a vast knowledge of the market. She’s excited to join the Signature Properties Group team that includes her mother, Shannon Stafford. Colleen and her husband Mitch have two boys, Mason, and Maddox, and furbabies Beau and Muffin. In addition to her philanthropic work with various organizations to positively impact our community, Colleen currently serves as a board member for the Miss Golden Isles Pageant, and has competed in Miss America and Miss USA state pageants.

Signature Properties Group is located at 600 Sea Island Road. Call the main office at 912.634.9995 or toll free at 866.634.9995 or visit their website at signatureproperties.com. 72

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a lifestyle store for home and gift

1806 Frederica Road Suite B, St. Simons Island Monday – Saturday 10am-5:30pm (912) 268-4244 / Visit www.facetofacehome.com Follow on Instagram @Facetofacedesigns

Join Us

F O U N D O N LY I N F I N E S P E C I A L T Y S T O R E S 155 SKYLANE RD.

B A I L E Y B OYS .CO M

Where We Care for Your Eyes

for some Autumn Indulgence

A N N UA L O P E N H O U S E Thursday October 4th 2018 4pm-7pm

Dr. Sage Campione

Lauren Koncul, NP

Raffle Door prizes, goodie bags, procedure discounts, 20% off all skincare products Wine & Hors d’oeuvres

DON’T WAIT!

Be the first to see what’s coming for 2019! GOLDEN ISLES

CENTER FOR PLASTIC SURGERY, PC D G.B , MD IANE

OWEN

Liposuction Tummy Tuck Breast Augmentation/ Reduction/ Reconstruction Facelift Brow Lift Blepharoplasty Botox Filler Skin Care Laser Hair Removal PRP Facial Rejuvenation Microblading Eyebrows

1015 Arthur J Moore Drive / St. Simons Island, GA www.drdianebowen.com / 912-634-1993

Large Selection of Eyewear & Sunglasses including Designer, Custom & Specialty

St. Simons Island 1626 Frederica Road St. Simons Island, GA 912.634.5711

Hospital 2500 Starling Street Brunswick, GA 912.261.4444

Brunswick 149 Altama Connector Brunswick, GA 912.554.2007

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BUSINESS BUZZ

NEW RESORT EXECUTIVE Sea Island has announced Vijay Singh as Managing Director of Resort Operations. Singh will lead all resort operations, work closely with the Strategic Leadership Team, be responsible for overseeing all operational aspects of the resort, including management of department executives. “Singh is an outstanding hospitality professional with extensive experience, an impressive resume of results, and a keen grasp of how a vibrant and passionate service culture drives the success of an organization.” said Scott Steilen, President and CEO of Sea Island. A veteran leader in the industry, Singh said “I am thrilled to be joining the Sea Island family, and the opportunity to lead a successful team of such an iconic American resort is an honor. Sea Island has a rich history marked by the gracious hospitality of its staff and I look forward to continuing the distinguished legacy of this luxury destination.”

ELEGANT ISLAND LIVING

TAPAS BAR ADDITION Del Sur Artisan Eats is adding a Tapas Bar as they celebrate their 4th anniversary this year! They’ll offer half-portions of featured dishes and a Happy Hour from 5:00-7:00 p.m. with select wines at half-price and house wines for $4 a glass and $15 a bottle. Since arriving on the island, the restaurant that specializes in Argentine and Italian cuisine has quickly become a favorite go-to spot for locals and visitors alike. Owners Hernan Stutzer and Alberto Llano are thankful they decided to relocate their families to St. Simons Island and have enjoyed becoming a part of this tight community. They especially appreciate the warmth and friendliness of fellow small businesses and the Southern hospitality. Being involved in the community has helped to make this area home to them. They thank everyone for their continued support of Del Sur. 321 Mallery Street, 912.638.1223. THE YELLOW CANARY RELOCATES After 34 years, The Yellow Canary has a new home! Sandra Delaney, owner of The Yellow Canary, now shares space with Leslie Sutton of Sutton Interiors. “We are excited to relocate in a new and fast growing area. It was an opportunity I could not refuse!” said Sandra. The store may be in a new place but you’ll find all of your favorite brands and the familiar smiling faces! Leslie, who also serves as President of the Frederica North Owner’s Association said that The Yellow Canary will be a wonderful addition to the center. “Sandra brings 34 years of experience in the fashion world, and along with her delightful staff, makes shopping at ‘The Bird’ such a fun experience. We are so excited to have her with us.” Stop by the shop’s new location at 3700 Frederica North. Just look for the yellow doors!

(912) 264-2007 3420 4th Street Brunswick

We’ll Press the Shirts You Impress the Boss We are proud to offer same & next day service for all your valued garments.

(912) 638-2151 Retreat Village

126 Retreat Village St. Simons Island

Professional Dry Cleaning & Laundry Services Same & Next Day Service Free Pick-Up & Delivery* Sheets & Households In-House Alterations & Fittings

(912) 466-9447

FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED

5446 New Jesup Highway (341)

* FREE PICK-UP AND DELIVERY ON EXISTING ROUTE CALL 912-506-9001 FOR DETAILS.

Brunswick

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WEDDING AND SPECIAL OCCASION CUSTOM DESIGN Dorothy by Design began life when Dorothy’s granddaughter asked her to sew her wedding dress. This wasn’t a daunting task for a woman who had been sewing all her life. Soon her home’s spare room began to fill with bridal lace, tulle, fabric, and muslin toile for fittings. The “gown” morphed from a wedding dress to

ceremony party dress to a full trousseau. When Dorothy’s granddaughter’s friends began asking for dresses for their weddings, the sewing room expanded into the dining room (now fitting room). On evenings and Saturdays, the room filled with sundry giggling girls, until finally her beleaguered and lint chasing husband announced, “You need a shop!” Now Dorothy By Design at 2300 St. Marys Road, Suite D in St. Marys at Osprey Cove is where Dorothy does what she loves for people who love what she does. 912.576.2939.

HEALTH SYSTEM EXPANSION UNDERWAY Big changes that include demolition and relocation of services are happening on the Brunswick Campus of the Southeast Georgia Health System as it moves forward with its Master Renovation and Expansion Project. “In addition to building a new Surgical Services Tower and Impatient Floor, we are adding advanced technologies to better meet the health needs of our community,” explained the Health System’s president & CEO, Michael D. Scherneck. “[The Project] also includes improvements to our Emergency Care Center and existing patient floors to increase space, comfort and privacy. We’re also adding more parking areas for patients, visitors and our team members.” As part of the relocation of the hospital’s main entrance from Parkwood Drive to Kemble Avenue, there is now complimentary valet parking at the new Kemble Avenue main entrance Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. For more information, visit sghs.org/renovation.

COSMETIC & FAMILY DENTISTRY Highly Recommended. Highly Referred. Accepting New Patients. 76

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912.638.9946 300 Main St. #102 bryandentalssi.com

CHRIS MONCUS PHOTOGRAPHY

BUSINESS BUZZ

LITERARY GUILD USED BOOKSTORE The Literary Guild of St. Simons Island has opened a used bookstore in the atrium of the St. Simons Island Casino Building in the Village. The store is open from 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Wednesdays and 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Saturdays. All proceeds collected from book sales will support the St. Simons Island Public Library. You can join the Literary Guild by visiting the bookstore or attending any Literary Guild events, such as Meet the Author book discussions, Island Film Series movie nights, or their Fall Book Sale October 18-20. litguildssi.org

Cocktails & Conversations You are cordially invited to our Holiday Preview Party Thursday, October 25, 1:30-5:30 PM Friday, October 26, 12-4 PM SMALL BITES • COCKTAILS DOOR PRIZES

Infant and Children’s Clothing, Gifts and Accessories

SHOPS AT SEA ISLAND

IN-HOUSE MONOGRAMMING 276-A Redfern Village, St. Simons Island, GA / 912.434.9372

•

ST. SIMONS ISLAND, GA

INDIGOSSI.COM

A l o h a

R e p u b l i c

•

I n d i a

BEACHWEAR CLOTHING FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY

205 Mallery Street St. Simons Island 912.634.5047

Box • Sun Bum • Lucky 7 • Heat • Exist • Sanok

• Fresko • Rainbow • Havaianas • Magic T-Shirt • American Gift

O u t f i t t e r s

Boutique • Guy Harvey • US Apparel • US Vintage • Yellow

N a t i v e

600 SEA ISLAND RD

912-634-8884

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W H AT ’ S H A P P E N I N G

WALK TO END ALZHEIMER’S Held annually in more than 600 communities nationwide, the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s® is the world’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. This inspiring event calls on participants of all ages and abilities to join the fight against the disease! Dress from head to toe in purple and join the Walk to End Alzheimer’s at Neptune Park on Saturday, October 13th! Registration begins at 9:00 a.m. and the 2-mile walk begins at 10:30 a.m. There will be entertainment provided by iHeart Media and a special appearance by The Golden Isles Mermaid! Bring your yoga gear to participate in Yoga in the Park following the walk! Start by registering your team online and lead the way to Alzheimer’s first survivor. Together, we can end Alzheimer’s disease! Contact amickelson@alz.org or 404.654.7207 for more information.

BRUNSWICK ACTORS THEATRE PRESENTS WIT In October, the Brunswick Actors Theatre brings to the stage the Winner of the 1999 Pulitzer Prize for Drama: Wit, by Margaret Edson. Vivian Bearning, PhD, a renowned professor of English who has spent years studying and teaching the brilliant and difficult metaphysical sonnets of John Donne, has been diagnosed with terminal ovarian cancer. During the course of her illness, and stint as a prize patient in an experimental chemotherapy program, Vivian comes to reassess her life and work with a profundity and humor that are transformative for both her and the audience. Performances October 13-14, 20-21, and 27-28, Saturday evenings at 8:00 p.m. and Sunday matinees at 3:00 p.m. Doors open 45 minutes early and ticket price includes beverages and desserts provided by Daddy Cate’s Coffees and Cupcakes by Linda. Reservation hotline 912.280.0023. Visit soglogallery.com/theatre.

SHE LOVES ME You’ll find yourself singing along with the actors for iconic songs like “Vanilla Ice Cream,” “Will He Like Me?,” and, of course, the title number, when The Island Players present She Loves Me. This charming romantic musical comedy, written by the creative team who produced Fiddler on the Roof is a retelling of the story brought

to life in the 1940 film The Shop Around the Corner, which Hollywood later remade as You’ve Got Mail with Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan. Featuring a cast of talented local actors directed by Jeff Dempsey and Jackie Santoro, performances will take place October 5-7,

11-14, and 18-21 at the St. Simons Island Casino Theatre. Showtime is at 7:30 Thursday through Saturday, and at 3:00 p.m. for Sunday matinees. Purchase your tickets for the show in advance at theislandplayers.com. Season tickets that include all four shows of 2018-2019 are also available.

Award-Winning, Southern Cooking That will Bring You Back Because Barbara Jean and her family know how to get it done, just ask Coastal Living, Southern Living, Georgia Trend …

Best of 2018 Bread & Rolls, Crab Cakes, Southern Cooking, Vegetable Plate Selection

Crab Cakes, She Crab Soup, Cornbreads And More Can Be Shipped From Our Online Store. Makes a Great Gift! barbarajeans.com

Barbara Jean’s Restaurants St. Simons Island 214 Mallory St. 912.634.6500

ELEGANT ISLAND LIVING

Porte Vedra Beach 15 S Roscoe Blvd. 904.280.7522

Amelia Island 960030 Gateway Blvd. 904.277.3700

Open Daily at 11:00 am

LIGHTING • ART • BOTANICALS • FURNITURE • GARDEN • GIFTS

269 REDFERN VILLAGE

912.434.9050

MON-SAT 11-5

WWW.CACHETTES.NET

Please join us for a Christmas Open House Thursday, Friday and Saturday, October 25th, 26th and 27th.

TRUNK SHOW OCTOBER 25-OCTOBER 27

300 Main Street, Suite 201 • St. Simons Island, Georgia (912) 264-4211 / www.choateandcompany.com

From Cottages to Castles I can help you with ALL your Real Estate needs!

Zaida Clay Harris ABR, GRI, CRS Associate Broker, Managing Partner Life Member Circle of Excellence 600 Sea Island Road. Suite 28 Office 912 634 4311 Cell 912 258 1089 SignaturePropertiesGroup.com ZaidaClayHarris@gmail.com

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S O C I A L

S C E N E

SEA ISLAND’S ANNUAL SOUTHERN GROWN FESTIVAL WAS ONCE AGAIN A HUGE SUCCESS WITH EVERY EVENT SELLING OUT. THE FRIDAY EVENING GARDEN & GUN KICKOFF DINNER & A SHOW FEATURED DELICIOUS SOUTHERN FARE HIGHLIGHTING THE TALENTS OF CHEF KENNY GILBERT, GENA KNOX, and offerings from Canewater Farms served up by Rafe Rivers (who also toted his sweet baby). The music by Hank

Compton and Drew Holcomb and the Neighbors was fantastic and the setting could not have been more gorgeous. (Southern Grown Festival continues on page 82) 80

ELEGANT ISLAND LIVING

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S C E N E

(Southern Grown Festival continued from page 80) SATURDAY, THE FUN CONTINUED WITH WORKSHOPS AND DEMONSTRATIONS ON “HOW TO BE A SOUTHERNER,” AND CAPPED OFF WITH AN EVENING CONCERT AT RAINBOW ISLAND. ATTENDEES ENJOYED FOOD TRUCK EATS AND MUSIC BY THE BAND WILDER before headliners NEEDTOBREATHE took the stage. Their performance was electric from start to finish, even playing through a rainstorm! People will be talking about this concert for years to come! 82

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Diesel Invicta Freestyle Infrared Oakley Maui Jim Cobian Rayban Prada Cotton Natural Bamboo Cay Costa del Mar Bimini Bay Body Glove Hook & Tackle Panama Jack Guy Harvey Sun & Soul Yellow Box Girli Girl Sprint Lifeguard Weekender G-Shock Croakies Peter Grimm Von Zipper Ty

Photo Credit: @shopturnerandmoss

ENGLISH MAHOGANY PINE & COUNTRY FRENCH FURNITURE • DIRECT IMPORTERS • ACCESSORIES • GIFTS

WINNER

- Best Antiques Elegant Island Living Readers Choice Award 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018

(912) 638-1216 Located Between Redfern Village and St. Simons Drugs. Follow us on Instagram! @lcwantiques and @mcintoshcottage

201 Mallery Street St. Simons Island, GA 912.434.9689

Not Just a Drug Store…

Also, an Extraordinary

GIFT STORE

O CTO B E R 2 0 1 8

S O C I A L

S C E N E

BAY EQUITY HOME LOANS RECENTLY CELEBRATED THE GRAND OPENING OF ITS ST. SIMONS ISLAND BRANCH WITH A RIBBON CUTTING AND RECEPTION IN THE ATRIUM OF THE ST. SIMONS CASINO. A little rain forced the party under shelter, but no one’s spirits were dampened in the least. Congratulations and best of luck to Gretchen and Kathy! 1. James Laurens, Myrick Stubbs. 2. Laurie Colbert, Karen Daniel, Cody Duke. 3. Robby Robinson, Kathy Bulfer. 4. Art Harper, Don and Margie Varnadoe, Tripp Johnson. 5. The Bay Equity Home Loans St. Simons Island team of Gretchen Johnson and Kathy Bulfer. 6. Pat Hodnett Cooper, Tammy Dunn, Missy Neu, Janice Morgan. 7. James Vivenzio, Rance Braswell. 8. Susan and Len Hoshall. 9. Tripp Johnson, Anna Johnson, Kay Love, Ashley Edinger. 10. Robert Kozlowski, Lori McCormick, George Skarpalezos. 84

ELEGANT ISLAND LIVING

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S O C I A L

S C E N E

THE SCRAMBLING FOR THE CAUSE GOLF TOURNAMENT WAS RECENTLY HELD AT SEA PALMS RESORT. TWO FRATERNITY BROTHERS OF KEVIN KLEPPER, WHO WAS THEN NEWLY DIAGNOSED WITH MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS, SAW AN OPPORTUNITY NOT ONLY TO SHOW THEIR SUPPORT FOR KEVIN, BUT TO RAISE AWARENESS FOR ALL INDIVIDUALS AFFECTED BY MS. Through the love, support and participation of hundreds

of families and friends, the SFTC golf tournament has raised over $100,000 towards the National Multiple Sclerosis Society’s research and awareness movement. 86

ELEGANT ISLAND LIVING

Dad hasn’t decided who will get his mint condition 1954 pickup. Steer the odds in your favor.

At Thrive, we consider parents to be more precious than heirlooms. So we treat your parents like June treated the Beav. We challenge and encourage them. We forge meaningful relationships based

on admiration and trust. There is purpose in every breath. Let us help you see how. Come. Bring your parent. Experience what it feels like to thrive. Why there’s just no telling how your parent will show their gratitude.

Thrive at Frederica 3615 Frederica Road, St. Simons Island, GA 31522 912.295.4699 | ThriveSL.com/Frederica

COME TO LIVE HERE.

S O C I A L

S C E N E

BENNIE’S RED BARN WAS THE HOST OF A RECENT BRUNSWICK-GOLDEN ISLES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS AFTER HOURS EVENT. THE NETWORKING EVENT WAS CO-HOSTED BY THE ISLAND DIRECTORY PUBLISHING COMPANY, AMERIS BANK SSI, COASTAL COMPUTER CONSULTING, LLC, AND IHEARTMEDIA INC. Tony and Beth Adams provided some music to liven up the atmosphere

and attendees enjoyed tasty eats served up by the Bennie’s crew. 88

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Formerly Island Pond & Landscape Center LANDSCAPING & LAWN MAINTENANCE FOR RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL CUSTOMERS

Hardscape • Landscape Design Landscape Lighting Irrigation Design & Installation Retail Nursery & Handmade Pots

NEW OWNERS: TREVOR HOLLAND AND RYAN WATERS

147 GARY L MOORE CT, ST. SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA (BEHIND THE AIRPORT)

912-634-9162 HOURS: MONDAY-SATURDAY 9 A.M. - 5:30 P.M.

M OO R W ! HO ON S D SO DE ING N PA M EX CO

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S O C I A L

S C E N E

OPERATION BED SPREAD CELEBRATED THE DELIVERY OF MORE THAN 800 BEDS TO LOCAL FAMILIES IN NEED AT THEIR RECENT BACK 2 SCHOOL BEDLAM FUNDRAISER AT BROGEN’S SOUTH. What an incredible feat for this small non-profit who first undertook their mission to provide beds for children who don’t have them in October of 2012. Learn more about them and how you can help by following them on Facebook or emailing operationbedspread@gmail.com. 1. Chris Johnson, Holly White. 2. Natalee Miles, Jessie Burch. 3. Marcus, Candler and Sydney Kuja. 4. Bill and Marianna Elias. 5. Courtney and Gabe Crabb. 6. Dan Meyers, JP Thornton, Toby Eisentraeger. 7. Tracy Hite, Gail Chandler. 8. Staci Bennett, Deborah Frederick, Celia Eisentraeger, Jennifer Meyers. 9. Ann Marie Dalis, Patti Sistrunk, John Dalis. 10. Jennifer Hinson, Debbie Swindell, Cindy Baird. 11. Henry and Linda Cooper, Chuck Deal. 12. Jimmy Seaman, Rees Carroll, John Lifite. 13. Gerri and Burt Bray, Greg Carver, Cindi Phillips. 14. Georgia Kellogg, Gigi Capes. 90

ELEGANT ISLAND LIVING

ONE OF KIND CUSTOM PIECES & INTERIOR DESIGN SERVICES

Lori F. Cook Interiors, LLC 206 Redfern Village St. Simons Island 912.638.6100

COME SEE US AT OUR NEW LOCATION

3600 Frederica Road next to Brogen’s North 912-638-4061

Best

wine selection in town.

OVER 1200 SELECTIONS AS WELL AS EXTENSIVE CRAFT BEER CHOICES.

Dr. Charles T. Hopkins III, D.M.D., Dr. Jack H. Melton, D.M.D. and the staff of Plantation Dental Associates.

Your smile is our business.

At Plantation Dental Associates, we know the value of a healthy, happy smile. That’s why we keep abreast of the latest restorative, cosmetic, and oral surgical techniques — to provide you with the level of care you have come to know for the dental health you deserve.

P L A N TAT ION DE N TA L AS S O C IAT E S General, Cosmetic, and Restorative Dentistry

300 Main Street, Suite 101 | St. Simons Island, Georgia 31522 | 912-638-9001 w w w .plan t at io n de n t alssi.c o m

OPEN UNTIL 11:45 PM MOST DAYS MATTHEW SLIGH PROPRIETOR

1675 FREDERICA ROAD ST. SIMONS ISLAND, GA 912-538-9831

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S O C I A L

S C E N E

JOHNNY AND JOYCE THOMAS AND THEIR FRIENDS AND FAMILY CAME THROUGH BIG ONCE AGAIN FOR HOSPICE OF THE GOLDEN ISLES! THE 13TH ANNUAL R.E. THOMAS BENEFIT WAS WELL ATTENDED AND GUESTS ENJOYED THE DINNER, MUSIC, AND DANCING AT THE BRUNSWICK SHRINE CLUB IMMENSELY. This annual event held in honor of beloved family patriarch R.E. Thomas has raised more than a quarter

of a million dollars for our hometown hospice in its 13 year history. 92

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S O C I A L

S C E N E

THE COASTAL GEORGIA HISTORICAL SOCIETY WRAPPED UP ITS SEASON OF LITTLE LIGHT MUSIC WITH A FINAL CONCERT BY THE SENSATIONAL SOUNDS OF MOTOWN. AS USUAL, THE PERENNIAL FAVORITES HAD THE CROWD UP AND DANCING FROM THEIR VERY FIRST SONG, and the rain stayed away just long enough for everyone to enjoy a wonderful evening complete with a beautiful golden sunset. Elegant Island Living

is proud to be a sponsor of this annual island tradition and looks forward to next summer’s season of outdoor music on the lighthouse lawn. 94

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“LADY DAWG” HEADQUARTERS THE UNIQUE BOUTIQUE

SINCE 1974 SPORTSWEAR 2-16 and 1X-3X ACCESSORIES • GIFTS • SHOES

maggiesssi.com 1616 Frederica Rd • (912) 638-3995 Mon. - Sat. 10 - 5:30

QUALITY CUSTOM FRAMING WITH A PERSONAL TOUCH

1403 Newcastle Street • Brunswick • 262-0050

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SSI ARCHIVES

A Club for Carefree Island Recreation

n the mid to late 1930s, before opening as a hotel and later becoming a resort, The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort operated as a Beach and Yacht Club. A brochure announcing new facilities described the amenities of the Beach Club, which was located on the same stretch of beachfront as today’s resort. In addition to beach access, guests could enjoy a spacious clubhouse, an oyster bar with pecky cypress paneling, and the Bamboo Garden for outdoor dining and dancing. The Yacht Club was situated on the river near Fort Frederica and offered fishing, hunting, and boating, as well as dining in the Barbeque Lodge. A houseboat called the “Waterway Queen” was docked there and could be chartered for large parties.

Overnight visitors were encouraged to stay at Wynne Gables Hotel on Beachview Drive near the Village, an “inntype home of fifteen rooms operated year round in connection with the King and Prince Beach Club.” Rooms were steam-heated and had either private or connecting bathrooms. During the spring, which was considered the high season, a double room was $9.00, including meals. After most of the beachfront facilities were destroyed by a fire, the Club was rebuilt as the King and Prince Hotel, opening on July 2, 1941. The hotel, now designated a resort, was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2005. This month’s images are from an undated brochure recently donated to the Society’s archives.

Our monthly images on this page are from the vast archives of the Coastal Georgia Historical Society. The Society’s mission includes the “administration, restoration and maintenance of historic facilities and resources … preserved as a living part of the historical and cultural foundations of our coastal community.” Society facilities include the St. Simons Lighthouse and Museum, the A.W. Jones Heritage Center, and the Historic Coast Guard Station. To learn more about the Society, its diverse programs, and the benefits of Society membership, please call (912) 638.4666, or visit coastalgeorgiahistory.org.

130 E L E G A N T I S L A N D L I V I N G

Elegant Island Living October 2018

Articles inside

SSI Archives

Social Scene

What’s Happening

Signature Properties Welcomes New Agents

Here for Your Health

Icon or Iconoclast?

LSSI: Preservation Partners and Neighbors

The Pinnacle of Coastal Retirement

New Venue Same Vine

Spooktacular Soirée

Weddings Are Big Business in the Golden Isles

More Happy Tails

A Culinary Experience to Conquer Cancer

Survivors Hit Runway for a Cure

An Artist’s Inspiration Abroad