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MORE THAN A Slice Paradise A rare gem spanning over 200 feet on the Gulf Coast
59 PELICAN CIRCLE | BY ERIN ODEN
Th is August, I had the opportunity to list and sell a spectacular and unique property that boasts one of the largest residential Gulf-front footages to be found along 30A. Th e residence at 59 Pelican Circle, a sprawling waterfront estate spanning 220 feet on the Gulf, broke records as the fourth-highest home-sale price in all of 30A’s history.
Th is property is particularly special to me, in that I fi rst sold what was the original home back in 2014. While the home was dated, the double lot that commanded more than 200 feet on the Gulf was absolutely magical and begging for a sleek, stunning residence that would show off the impressive Gulf-frontage and expansive views.
The new owners saw the potential and immediately hired an uber-talented team to create the dream vision.
Entirely renovated in 2015, prominent architect Geoff Chick and reputable builder Richard Swift collaborated to create a custom, modern design that showcased an expansive water frontage. Today, 59 Pelican Circle stands as a marvel along the Emerald Coast.
I had the recent pleasure of sitting down with Geoff Chick, who shared the story of creating the design of the renovated residence.
How did you discover 30A? Tell us about your first visit to 30A.
GEOFF CHICK: I came down here from college on spring break and fell in love with the area. I moved down here to goof off after graduation and never left. I found a career down here at the beach designing houses and that’s really been my passion.
There was no Rosemary Beach back then. There was no Alys Beach. There was no Seacrest Beach. There was Seaside and Seagrove and everything east of there was still very much untouched. That all started after I moved here. So, I’ve gotten to watch all of that side of 30A be built up, because there was nothing there.
GEOFF CHICK, Architect
With your broad background in designing and building along all of the areas of Scenic 30A, tell us about your experiences along Pelican Pointe and why Pelican Circle provides such a special and unique location for designing and building a luxury legacy residence.
GEOFF CHICK: You’re centrally located there. You’re still close to all of the amenities of Rosemary Beach and Alys Beach but you’re far enough away that you can participate and enjoy if you choose. You’re also not too far away from Watersound and The Hub, going in the other direction. You’re close to everything but you’re tucked into the “private enclave” — that’s what I would call it — of Pelican Circle.
What were the original visionary elements and features that you wanted to bring to life in this project? What are the unique highlights of this exceptional residence at 59 Pelican Circle?
GEOFF CHICK: I think that one important thing to note about this property is that it was actually a remodel, so we had our hands tied with the existing structure. There was an older stucco home there, so we gutted the house completely down to the studs and redid all of the plumbing, all
of the electrical and then reimagined the house to take advantage of the views.
We were inspired by (architects) Le Corbusier and Frank Lloyd Wright. We added a lot of windows and doors facing the ocean to really capitalize on that view opportunity and the outdoor living space — with that beautiful swimming pool by Chad Horton.
The other thing we really wanted to work on was the curb appeal. That glass tower with the floating staircase was something that we wanted as you entered the property, for that to really pull you in. One of the things that was really cool about this property is where the house is located, to the far west side of the lot. We tried to make sure every room in the house had a view of the water. Even the back bedrooms look out across the pool area to the Gulf.
This home sits on a particularly special and rare homesite, with 220 feet of Gulf-frontage. How did each of you focus the architectural and exterior design process to capitalize on one of the largest Gulffront home sites available along Scenic Highway 30A?
GEOFF CHICK: I think that the most important decision that was made in the design process was to preserve that big open space and leave it undeveloped. Rather than have a house eat up the whole lot, I think what to me exudes luxury and the value of that lot is an open space. You’re actually able to enjoy that Gulf experience without filling every square inch of the property with house.
What tidbits do you have to share with the future owners of 59 Pelican Circle?
GEOFF CHICK: I’ve done a lot of houses now with Richard Swift and he’s probably one of the best, if not the best contractor that I get to work with. Richard was able to take some of my ideas and make them better than what I imagined. Really dive into the interior experience because the box itself is really well designed and really well built.
Seasonal Good Cheer
Fall and winter festivities abound at Village of Baytowne Wharf
As the year nears a close, Emerald Coast calendars fill with events. Temperatures may cool, but The Village of Baytowne Wharf heats up with a roster of some of their most popular and memorable happenings.
The fall event season kicks off with the 14th annual Baytowne Wharf Beer Festival, presented by Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort on Oct. 7–8. Sample more than 200 domestic and international craft beers while listening to live music.
Wizards, witches, warlocks and more all invited to trick or treat at the merchants’ storefronts. Trick or Treat Street will take place from 6–8 p.m. on Oct. 31. All family members are encouraged to dress up for the costume contest. The night concludes with a spooky spectacular fireworks display.
The first weekend of November brings three days of music. Grab you blanket and lawn chair and enjoy the fall coolness during Tribute Weekend. Rock out to the tunes of tribute bands playing the classics you know and love. Bands will take the stage on Friday, Nov. 4, and Saturday, Nov. 5, from 7–9 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 6, from 2–4 p.m.
One of the most anticipated Village of Baytowne Wharf events is the ticketed Sparkling Wine & Holiday Lights event on Nov. 19 from 4–6 p.m. Attendees will be poured glasses from a selection of over 30 champagnes and served delectable appetizers from Village restaurants. The Village tree will be lighted, and carolers will be present to usher in the holiday spirit.
“The holiday season here is particularly special because we’ve put a lot of thought into making the decorations pop and the events especially memorable,” said Alan Meyers, executive director of the Village.
On Nov. 26, Santa is set to land his sleigh at the Village. At the Here Comes Santa event, you can meet the cheery fellow himself while enjoying face painting, kids crafts and a festive holiday fireworks display.
On Dec. 2, Florida gets a bit icy at the Icy Skating Extravaganza as the ice rink opens for the winter season. This event will feature performances by two professional ice skaters. Before and after the shows, skaters can lace up and join the pros on the ice.
Wednesdays are a winter wonderland at the Village. On Dec. 4, 14 and 21, children can visit with Santa and share what’s on their wish list. Each week, a different high school band will perform Christmas classics.
Ring in 2023 at the Baytowne Countdown with two stunning fireworks shows at 8 p.m. and midnight. From 6-8 p.m., the event is family friendly with crafts, activities and live music. From 7 p.m.–1 a.m., dance your way into a new year with live music on the main stage.
“With these events, we want people to make memories and experience that warm holiday feeling no matter whether they live here or are visiting for the holidays,” said Kensley Brooks, events coordinator for the Village.
For details on all of The Village of Baytowne Wharf’s events, visit: Baytownewharf.com/what_to_do.com
Taste testing local honey (left) and getting coffee from the Rise and Grind Coffee Cart (right) at Grand Boulevard Farmers Market
From Farm Fresh to Handcrafted
A tour through the farmers markets of 30A
BY ALEXSIS MILLS
Every weekend in the coastal communities of 30A, gardeners, farmers and crafters from near and far come to share their spoils with locals and visitors alike. Beginning on Saturday morning, the farmers market stands swiftly fill with organic produce and handcrafted goods waiting to be discovered. Touring markets from west to south, a guide has been created for you to conclude your weekend of markets with a delicious, seasonally inspired, Sunday dinner of zucchini involtini.
Beginning on the west end, a few miles off Highway 30A, the Grand Boulevard Farmers Market makes for an ideal starting place as it starts bustling with vendors eager to share their knowledge and goods with patrons at 9 a.m. This market is boutique in size but concentrated with a variety of booths filled with handcrafted items and fresh produce. You will find everything from roasted coffee beans and local honey to homemade pita and Mediterranean hummus. As the sun begins to beat its warm rays down and you’re looking for reprieve from the heat, you will find the Rise and Grind Coffee Cart has specially curated coffee drinks ready to fuel your day of market endeavors. If you’re looking for a heartier dinner option, Blevins Wagyu Beef booth has an excellent selection of Wagyu beef sure to impress you with its marbling.
The Seaside Farmers Market wraps around the green lawn of the Seaside Ampitheatre and begins bustling with life at 9 a.m.
Traveling south, onto Highway 30A, the Seaside Farmers Market is an ideal place to bring your family, friends and furry pals for a Saturday afternoon full of browsing and treats. This market is filled with smiles and laughter, a palpable energy that makes this market noteworthy. Seaside’s market has a plethora of variety and knowledge as it aims to empower through education and awareness, allowing people to actively see and choose the betterment of their health. Starting the stroll, you will find a fresh produce stand full of all the fresh fruits and veggies you could dream of, highlighting what’s fresh and seasonal. The tents surround the green lawn of the Seaside Amphitheater, providing the perfect spot for kids to take a break and play. Dogs can find cool spots in the shade and plenty of water bowls to refresh themselves, as well as booths offering homemade dog and cat treats to make the day extra special for them.
Above: Erin Oden, Alexsis Mills and Olivia Ronchetti enjoying the Seaside Farmers Market. Right: Handcrafted dog treats available for sample from Davis Dog Treats booth.
RECIPE Zucchini Involtini
INGREDIENTS:
» 2 pounds zucchini, 2 large or 3 to 4 medium » 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil » Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste » 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped » 1/2 cup white onion, diced » 1 teaspoon garlic, diced » 1 cup whole milk ricotta » Zest from one lemon » 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped » 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped » 1/2 cup white onion, diced » 1 teaspoon garlic, diced » 1 to 1 1/2 cups of your favorite fresh tomato sauce » 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped, optional » Parmigiano Reggiano for serving, optional
DIRECTIONS:
Preheat the oven to 400 F and line two sheet pans with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Trim both ends off each zucchini and make 1/2 slices vertically. You can do this with a knife, potato peeler or mandolin slicer. Arrange the slices of zucchini on your sheet pans and lightly drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste. Roast these in the oven for 15 to 20 minutes until they are crispy and brown on the edges but still solid in the middle. Cooking times may vary based on the thickness of your slicing, just make sure you do not over bake them so that you can still work with the slices. While the zucchini is baking, heat your onion and garlic in a saute pan. After 1 minute, add your spinach, and cook down until wilted, about 2 minutes. Remove the pan from heat and allow the spinach to cool while you prepare the ricotta filling.
In a medium bowl, stir together the ricotta, lemon zest, thyme and parsley. Once your spinach has slightly cooled, add it to the ricotta mixture and stir to combine. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Spoon tomato sauce into two 9-inch round baking dishes or one 12-inch round baking dish — the bottom of the dish should be covered in a layer of about 1/2-inch to 1-inch thickness. I like to stir in fresh basil with the sauce here for an extra flavor pop, but this is optional. Place a spoonful of the ricotta filling at one end of each of the zucchini slices. Roll the slice into a coil and place it in the dish on top of the tomato sauce. Drizzle lightly with olive oil. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Transfer to the oven and bake until the sauce has reduced slightly and is bubbling and the rolls are lightly golden on top, 20 to 25 minutes. If the rolls are still not golden after 25 minutes, broil the involtini for 2 to 3 minutes.
Remove the pan from the oven and top with parmesan for serving. Enjoy!
In the newly developing community of Watersound Origins, north of 30A, the Watersound Farmers Market waits under the pavilion of the town center to be discovered. The newest of the 30A markets, the Watersound Market is continually growing and recruiting new vendors. Fresh flowers and handcrafted goods line the walkway of the pavilion, guiding you along the booths filled with fresh raw milk, pasta sauces made with recipes passed down generations and homemade crab cakes. The craft vendors can walk you through, step by step, how they handmake their bracelets, hats and many other products while you browse the wide array of crafted goods. Before concluding your trip through the Watersound market, take time to stop at Tisa’s Finest Italian booth and hear the history behind his recipes, while collecting a jar of the fresh tomato sauce, an integral portion of the dinner recipe.
Eleanor picking out her favorite treat from the Rosemary Beach Farmers Market — fresh grapes.
In the heart of the Rosemary Beach community, bright and early every Sunday morning, the
Rosemary Beach Farmers Market
blooms to life. Bustling with the energy of a long-established staple in the community, the Rosemary market was started over nine years ago and now boasts over 80 vendors from near and far, eager to share in the fruits of their labor. Staple kitchen items like farm fresh eggs, pasture raised meat and organic produce are available at the ready, alongside homemade soaps and candles, internationally influenced baked goods and curated juices and teas. As you are walking through the market, stop along one of the many fresh produce stands to collect a few core items for dinner: zucchini, onion, spinach, basil and thyme.
The farmers markets are near and dear to the hearts of those in the 30A community and no matter the market you visit or products you decide to try, all support is deeply appreciated as the markets wouldn’t exist today without the supporters of yesterday, today and tomorrow.
HISTORY A Message from Diane Kolopanas
Owner of the Grand Boulevard, Watersound and Rosemary Farmers Markets
FROM THE TIME MY HUSBAND AND
I MARRIED, we realized how much we loved helping others, and when we moved to Santa Rosa Beach in 2012, we quickly realized there were very few farmers markets in the area. With my educational background in hospitality, experience volunteering at our church and co-chairing a festival, I started the 30A Farmers Market in Rosemary Beach in 2013.
It has been and continues to this day to be my passion along with my determination to help others and create the best farmers markets in the area. With the help of our truly wonderful and diverse group of professional vendors and market management teams working together, we have created the best farmers markets along the Emerald Coast. Overall, we strive to create a unique farmers market experience that everyone of all ages will enjoy.
The 30A Farmers Markets currently offer a mix of fruits, vegetables, herbs, microgreens and superfoods that are grown using sustainable farming methods. We have the best local honey, including Tupelo, as well as fresh eggs and dairy products. Our farmers bring grass-fed beef, Wagyu beef, chicken, pork and bone broth to the market each and every week. Fresh from the Gulf, an array of locally caught fish and shrimp is available in addition to the best crabcakes, crab claws, raw oysters and smoked fish dips.
The markets also provide a variety of artisanal pastries and breads, granola, nuts, homemade jellies, jams, canned fruits and vegetables, cooking sauces, marinades, dressings, salts, salsa, mustards, dips, seasonings, herbs and prepared foods. Fresh cold-pressed organic juices, kombucha and dried teas are available, as well as an incredible variety of all-natural skincare, bath, body, health and wellness products and even all-natural pet treats for your furry friends.
We also incorporate local restaurants, businesses, and nonprofits into the market through cooking demonstrations, food sales, retailing merchandise and informational booths. The concept lends itself to promoting the local businesses while supporting the desirability of the farmers market at the same time.
Leveraging Assets
Lynnie Scott stays on top of financial cycles
Lynnie’s financial acumen and tendency toward entrepreneurship became apparent when, at age 6, she traveled to Disney World with her family. She advanced her brothers each $5 with the terms of 100% repayment by dark/ departing the park. The interest charged: french fries and candy bars. The Bank of Mom was never aware of these high finance transactions.
Today, that same entrepreneurial drive serves her clients well as she provides asset and debt management services in California, Florida and Georgia, with expansion into other states planned for 2023.
Always, Lynnie keeps varying market conditions in mind when working with her clients.
“I understand the market needs and can speak to the industry changes during any economic challenge,” Lynnie said.
For people seeking to invest in their own financial wellness, Lynnie advises that real estate remains the single greatest investment for increasing individual wealth that can be easily leveraged.
Lynnie’s product offerings for Florida Panhandle Markets include:
Jumbo/Super Jumbo Offerings
– Owner Occupied, Second
Home, Investment – Up to $10 Million – Bank Statement – Pledged Assets – Asset Depletion – Specialty Properties – Non-Warrantable Condos – Condotels
Commercial
– Fix and Flips – Multifamily, Industrial, Retail, Office – Bridge and Mezzanine
Private/Hard Money
– Terms Vary
COMMUNITY HIGHLIGHT WaterSound Beach
PHOTOS COURTESY OF WATERSOUND CLUB
Welcome to the WaterSound Community, one of 30A’s most coveted gated communities along the Emerald Coast. Nestled on the iconic sprawling dunes, this sequestered coastal community is surrounded with a whopping 1-mile stretch of private community beach. Indulge in some of the amenities within the neighborhood or enjoy a short golf cart ride to the Watersound Beach Club, where the experience of exclusivity is at your fingertips.
Upon entering the secured gates of the WaterSound Community, you will gain access to a list of accommodations, all in your backyard. The community provides a plethora of options for fun in the sun, with several private pools, parks and tennis courts.
For those seeking a local bite, the Dunesider Grill — a poolside and beachside cafe and market — offers burgers, sandwiches, wine and beer for takeout. If you find yourself looking for a respite from the sun’s rays, a stylishly curated retail storefront awaits your visit.
As a golf cart-friendly neighborhood, WaterSound provides convenient travel in and out from 30A. Boardwalks intertwine the neighborhood and
all its amenities, some accommodating carts, allowing for a short drive or walk directly to the beach or any nearby activity. Also nestled along the boardwalks are nature paths that call out to be explored with the songs of native Florida birds, bringing you directly into Deer Lake State Park and Camp Creek Lake, providing the perfect transition into the tranquil Florida wildlife scene.
Residents or visitors who join Watersound Club may also access the Beach Club. Watersound Club’s director of membership, Vicki Burris, stated that “many members walk, drive or utilize calf carts when visiting,” and pointed out that members may enter through a private community gate access.
For those seeking the opportunity to join the Watersound Club, Burris is your direct contact. “I love interacting with visitors who are soaking up everything our area has to offer,” she boasted. The Watersound Club has been an excellent option for those in surrounding communities who value the perks that come with joining an exclusive club.
Vicki mentioned that not only does Watersound Club also provide its own private beach and tennis courts, but allows members the opportunity to enjoy “private amenities such as the Camp Creek and Shark’s Tooth golf courses, a private plane that can be chartered by members and a pool and dining venue — only available to Watersound Club Lifestyle members.”
Whether your definition of luxury involves a short stroll to your own beach or an exclusive membership with a private beach club, WaterSound has it all. Privacy, convenience, tranquility… it’s all part of the WaterSound lifestyle.
To see if Watersound Club is a good fit, the enrollment process typically begins with a tour of the Club locations. You may reach Vicki Burris at (850) 213-5181, visit watersoundclub.com, or email membership@stjoe.com.
*Typically, a 24-hour notice is all that is needed to schedule a tour of the amenities.
South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival
Support children’s charities while living the good life
Wine has a way of brightening even the sunniest of days. Each year, the South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival raises a glass to that sentiment.
The festival, which brings together winemakers, chefs, distillers and brewers for a weekend of wine tastings, education and entertainment, will be held for the 11th time next April 27–30 at the Grand Boulevard Town Center.
More than 600 wines will be poured, giving attendees the opportunity to taste, learn about and purchase regional, national and international vintages.
To complement the wines, the Savor South Walton Culinary Village will offer samples from the best restaurants in South Walton. Items are prepared to pair well with the wines that are poured. Additional food offerings are located throughout the festival.
A unique aspect of the festival is its Tasting Seminar Tent. Seminars presented by winemakers, distillers, chefs and well-known personalities are
both educational and enjoyable and provide insights into processes, flavor profiles and more.
The festival begins on Thursday with a Winemakers & Shakers event held at Wine World in Destin. Friday’s activities include a VIP Wine Tasting followed by the Craft Beer & Spirits Jam. The main events occur on Saturday and Sunday at the Grand Tasting.
Stacey Brady, executive director of South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival, advises festival-goers to look at the event program ahead of time and plot out the tents they most want to visit.
“Our wines are poured from around the world — beautiful pinots from Oregon, specialty cabernets and chardonnays from California, delicious Italian reds, subtle French wines that everyone loves and bold wines from South Africa and South America,” Brady said.
Find a new wine that you like, and you can purchase a bottle at the retail tent.
“Our goal is to present a world-class wine and food event that you might not be able to experience elsewhere in terms of the volume and types we pour,” Brady said.
The Minuty Rose tent, evoking the glamour and French Riviera lifestyle of St. Tropez, will be back in 2023.
The festival is a fundraiser for the Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation, which benefits over a dozen children’s charities in Northwest Florida. The 2022 event raised $40,000, a record amount.
“Since the start, we have made it our mission to be charitable, and it’s been incredibly rewarding to see how much we’ve raised, all while allowing attendees to enjoy the good life, discovering great wines and delicious local food,” Brady said.
OffSeason
STYLE
BY EMILY RAFFIELD Photography by Kaila Bruner Models - Samantha Burke, Allison Goetz
TAKING CUES FROM FASHION WEEK’S RUNWAYS, it’s up to us to reimagine some of fall’s biggest fashion trends for the beach. Build a styling foundation of fresh colors, a luxurious coat, modish denim and other autumnal basics to bring together looks you’ll fall in love with — and revel in all season long. Emily Raffield, owner and designer for BECASA at 30Avenue, rounds up her must-haves for the season that easily lend to sunny yet delightfully cooler temps.
DRESSES AND BOOTS
Don’t put away your favorite strappy dresses from summer — find a collared button-down in textured cotton or silk to layer underneath for some Sante Fe-inspired flair. Adding on boots will instantly give it some attitude and elevation. Also, this is the chance to bring in a couple of keepsakes from your jewelry collection — pile on those necklaces and bracelets that you love to make the look your own.
EMBRACE A CLASSIC LOOK
Button-down shirts, leather belts and blazers are all making a big statement — the trick is to find the styling combination that works for you. Tweed, tartan, leather, classic navy — tailored, boyfriend style, capelet — with cigarette pants, a mini skirt or wide-leg jeans. Each look has a place this fall. At the beach, we love to pair an oversized linen button-down shirt, frenchtucked at the waist, with a great belt and layered coat for those chilly afternoons.
CORE CASUAL
Our BECASA crewneck sweatshirt is a cult favorite for a good reason. Learning to style a sweatshirt in a chic way will be your secret weapon this fall — with a kitschy designer bag and shoes, tied over the shoulders, wrapped around the waist, or layered with a long textured tee will pump the look. We’re bringing our bestseller back in new colors this season — a soft light dune and rich jetty gray. They’re a bit understated, cool and essential — it’s the one item you’ll want in your weekend bag.
LUXE OUTERWEAR
A bulky, on-trend coat is sure to amp up your favorite layering pieces and make an outfit complete. Shearling coats are especially en vogue this fall and are more attainable now than ever with excellent faux offerings available. But, of course, these coats never go out of style, so splurge on an investment piece in classic tan or test the faux look in a warm chocolate brown for some edge.
POLISH WITH CASHMERE
Better than wool sweaters, cashmere is ideal for mild coastal winters. Cashmere maintains your natural body temperature and keeps you warm but never hot. So this season, a soft boyfriend sweater, loose poncho shawl or even a thin travel wrap or scarf will be perfect. Cashmere is always available in great colorways for guys and girls, so giving cashmere pieces for holiday gifts, too, is a no-brainer.
REMIX GO-TO NEUTRALS
Jewel tones typically rule fall fashion. Instead, we recommend inviting warm and rich neutrals into your closets this year. Layer silk, cotton and jersey knit tops in classic camel, smoky blue-grays, ivory, beige and dark slate tones. These good colors will elevate and re-energize your style.
Sea Sabella, Seaside, FL Gulf-front | 3-Bedrooms | Sleeps 6
Your Second Home is Our First Priority
As a leading vacation rental management company with nearly 40 years in the market, Cottage Rental Agency is setting the standard for vacation accommodations. Our seasoned team has experience in luxury homes and vacation rentals throughout South Walton. Learn how we can maximize your home’s revenue and enhance the guest experience by contacting our Owner Services Team at 888.231.4162 or OwnerServices@CottageRentalAgency.com.
Beachfront Cottage #7, Seaside, FL Gulf-front | 1-Bedroom | Sleeps 4 Beach House • Seaside, FL Gulf-front | 3-Bedrooms | Sleeps 8 El Dorado • Seaside, FL Gulf-front | 7-Bedrooms | Sleeps 24
