VIE Magazine October 2023

The NEW URBANISM TOWN THAT BIRTHED a MOVEMENT THE

The POWER of the INFLUENCER

Photographer LAUREN ATHALIA

PHOTO BY ED GUTENTAG

Welcome to the quaint, gated beach community of Santimo, perfectly located between Rosemary Beach and Alys Beach on the south side of 30-A. This is the ultimate family beach house, with living and dining on the first floor adjacent to your private pool, a two-car garage, four guest suites, bunks and game room, elevator, private beach access, and much more.

For more information:

BROKER LINDA MILLER

(850) 974-8885 | Linda@TheSmileOf30A.com

LINDAMILLERLUXURY.COM

OCT. 2023

25 – 28

Makers Market

Firkin Fête

Spirited Seminars

Spirited Soirée

Be the Maker

A vibrant festival celebrating craft beer, spirited cocktails, fine food, and skilled makers & craftsmen.

Alys Beach Crafted aims to tell the stories of crafted beverages, culinary experiences, artistry, and workmanship. Crafted will be a weekend of events, a gathering of masters of food and drink and renowned artisans from around the country sharing the process, the inspiration, and the product of their craft.

Benefiting Cultural Arts Alliance

For more information, visit alysbeachcrafted.com Tickets on sale now.

A BOHEME DESIGN

Architecture designed around You and the things You love...

Lovelace Interiors Reimagined

As a lover of all things beautiful, it is my honor and privilege to have created and founded Lovelace Interiors with my late husband, Dewitt “Sparky” Marshall Lovelace, over 28 years ago. Many of my clients have become lifelong friends, and I am so grateful for them. We’ve traveled the world together, and I’m still designing alongside my team in and around Scenic Highway 30-A, Destin, and Inlet Beach, Florida, as well as Aspen and Napa Valley, to name a few areas. The world is changing, and so is our industry. Like so many others, we are pivoting with the times. Our beautiful Inlet Beach showroom is gearing up to have the sale of the century, with 50% off select items (excluding

original artwork), as we are evolving our business model for the coming year. Our newly reimagined studio in our Inlet Beach showroom will also be an exciting place to shop. Stay tuned for more details on our new adventure as we introduce you to Lovelace Design Studio & Boutique. The ethos of our newly imagined lifestyle boutique is to continue making your homes lovely and curated from the ground up. Our licensed team of interior designers is ready to create and serve you with our A-game of experience, taste, class, and business acumen; in short, our goal is to move forward with grace, elegance, and a fresh outlook on bringing beautiful things to life.

With Love,

Keep an eye on our social marketing channels and the pages of VIE magazine as we announce our big showroom sale running from early fall through midFebruary. I can’t wait to share more about this journey with you!

From the GULF to the BAY to the DUNE LAKES of 30A, We Are Your WATERFRONT SPECIALISTS.

“Our approach to real estate is different. We strive for excellence. We take the responsibility our clients give us with abundant gratitude. We’re knowledgeable. We’re enthusiastic. We love what we get to do every day. We work hard. We work smart. Whether you are selling property or buying property here on 30A or all across the Emerald Coast – we provide you with the experience, community knowledge, and commitment that fulfill your needs. Our “clients first” business philosophy provides you with the reassurance that every action we put in motion is with your best interest in mind.”

BRIAN BEASLEY, Broker Associate

brian.beasley@compass.com | 828-337-3492

You might recognize this month’s cover girl, Rachel Autenrieth, from TikTok videos or effortlessly cool pictures on your Instagram feed. She promotes a life worth swooning over, filled with picturesque beach shots and a high-end yet relaxed way of living. She was the perfect muse for BECASA’s recent lifestyle shoot directed by Emily Raffield and photographer Lauren Athalia. This is just one of many influencer collaborations in a world ruled by social media, but it certainly stands out! Read more about the relationship between influencers and businesses on page 24.

FEATURE

24 Creating a Muse: The Power of the Influencer

SARTORIAL 23

36 Petite pause: Brittney and Brian Kelley

38 Lipstick, Heels, and a Baby: Jessica Fay

42 Full-Swing Fashion: Byrdie Golf

46 On the Daily: Daily Drills!

51 L’intermission: Let’s Talk Wellness with Almost 30

52 30A Mama: Jami Anderson Ray

Vie is a French word meaning “life” or “way of living.” VIE magazine sets itself apart as a high-gloss publication that focuses on human-interest stories with heart and soul. From Seattle to NYC with a concentration in the Southeast, VIE is known for its unique editorial approach—a broad spectrum of deep content with rich photography. The award-winning magazine was founded in 2008 by husband-and-wife team Lisa and Gerald Burwell, owners of the specialty publishing and branding house known as The Idea Boutique®. From the finest artistically bound books to paperless digital publication and distribution, The Idea Boutique provides comprehensive publishing services to authors and organizations. Its team of creative professionals delivers a complete publishing experience—all that’s needed is your vision.

PUBLISHED BY

114 LOGAN LANE, SUITE 4 SANTA ROSA BEACH, FLORIDA 32459

56 A Dynamic Duo with Star Power: Laura Citron and Andrew Clancey

60 Ophelia Love: Beautiful Swimwear in Paradise

LA MAISON 65

66 Feel Good Foodie: Yumna Jawad

68 Urban Grace: Erika McPherson Powell

72 Virginia’s First Lady: Making Change through Art

76 Petite pause: Shantell Martin

VOYAGER 81

82 ACE at the Beach: Alden Caroline Easter Lopez

86 Exploring Near and Far: McKenna Mears

90 The New Urbanism Town That Birthed a Movement: All Roads Lead to Seaside, Florida

VIE BOOK CLUB

98 He Was Always There: Misty Parenzan

C’EST LA VIE CURATED COLLECTION 102

LE MONDE 109

110 Big (Hoop) Dreams: From Small-Town Kids to Team USA and Beyond

116 Failing at Adulting, Winning at Comedy: Dalton Smiley

121 L’intermission: Kindness Is in Fashion with Ty Hunter

122 The Future of Regenerative Skin Care: Agatha Luzco

126 Living Fully: Mallory Ervin

130 Celebrating 200 Years and Countless Memories: Walton County, Florida

THE LAST WORD 135

AU REVOIR! 139

NASHVILLE-BASED FASHION DESIGNER AND INFLUENCER LAURA CITRON BRINGS THE GLAM WHEREVER SHE GOES! WE LOVE THIS PHOTO SHOOT AT THE “LITTLE PINK HOUSE,” WHICH PERFECTLY CELEBRATES CITRON’S PHILOSOPHY OF DRESSING LIKE A ROCK STAR DURING MUNDANE MOMENTS.

Photo by Lauren Athalia Styling by BECASA; Emily Raffield and Sara Aguilar

Makeup by Stacy Alderson

Photo by Tiffany Bolk

CREATIVE TEAM

CEO/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CREATIVE DIRECTOR

LISA MARIE BURWELL Lisa@VIEmagazine.com

FOUNDER / PUBLISHER

GERALD BURWELL Gerald@VIEmagazine.com

EDITORIAL EDITOR

JORDAN STAGGS Jordan@VIEmagazine.com

ASSISTANT EDITORS

KELLY CURRY Kelly@VIEmagazine.com

EMME MARTIN Emme@VIEmagazine.com

COPY EDITOR

WENDY ANDERSON

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

FRANCESCA PEÑA CALDERA, SARAH FREEMAN, ANTHEA GERRIE, MYLES MELLOR, CAROLYN O’NEIL, SUZANNE POLLAK, COLLEEN SACHS, XENIA TALIOTIS

ART AND PHOTOGRAPHY

ART DIRECTOR

SALLY NEAL Sally@VIEmagazine.com

DESIGN STUDIO AMBASSADORS

JACK KIRKENDALL

HANNAH VERMILLION

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

LAUREN ATHALIA, JASON ATHERTON, TIFFANY BOLK, HUNTER BURGTORF, MARLA CARTER, DEBBI CLARK, WILL EASTER, BUCCHI FRANCESCO, JACK GARDNER, ED GUTENTAG, FLETCHER ISACKS, ARANKA ISRANI, KOUROSH KEYNEJAD, BRENNA KNEISS, JEFF LANDRETH, ROGER MECHAN, DANIEL MEIGS, CARLO PIERONI, LEV RADIN, ROMONA ROBBINS, ROY ROCHLIN, HEATHER SHANE, JAMIE VERNON, JULIAN WHITE, CHANDLER WILLIAMS, FIBA, IMAGES OF GRACE PHOTOGRAPHY, KIANA TATE PHOTOGRAPHY, MODUS PHOTOGRAPHY, PAUL BRADY PHOTOGRAPHY, SHUTTERSTOCK

ADVERTISING, SALES, AND MARKETING

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING

KELLY CURRY Kelly@VIEmagazine.com

MARKETING COORDINATORS

HAILEY BETHKE

ABBY RYAN

BRAND AMBASSADORS

LISA MARIE BURWELL Lisa@VIEmagazine.com

MARTA RATA

Marta@VIEmagazine.com

Are HAVING a MOMENT

We’re living in a very different world. Change is happening at warp speed, and before we know it, things we once thought were on the horizon or in the distant future are here in real time. Space tourism, artificial intelligence, and holograms are just the tip of the proverbial iceberg as we usher in the new frontier. Yet the more things change, the more things stay the same. We wanted to explore the cultural phenomena that have taken social media channels like Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X (formerly Twitter) by storm. These platforms are used for personal communication, marketing, businesses, and commerce, and we’re covering it all in this issue dubbed The Power of the Influencer.

Many influencer entrepreneurs range from twenty to forty in the Millennial and Gen Z age sects, but when something takes off as these platforms have and everyone recognizes its power, the medium spreads to a broader group. The bulk of the off-the-charts success goes to the younger influencers who have figured out how to curate their unique brands and lifestyles while staying authentic. As they launch their cottage industries, amassing a robust fanbase is the Holy Grail, signifying the success of their endeavors. Being popular by being yourself or a version thereof is the ethos of successful “influencers” who then, in turn, grow their empire by endorsing products. Many now consider this method a vital economic component for everything from retail brands to cosmetics, art, books, music, health and nutrition, mental health organizations, and more.

These are the modern-day celebrities, the movers and shakers who have what movie stars used to have—the “It Factor.” They rule the digital universe, which is now part and parcel of all (or at least most) of our lives. It’s hard to be in business without a digital presence as, sadly, if you don’t exist there, you’re practically invisible. So much is consumed in that online sphere. Once an influencer has successfully branded themselves and proven they can push content as well as merchandise with their recommendations, the velocity of their business increases. The natural progression for many is hosting events and speaking engagements, creating and selling their own products, or starting podcasts as they use the digital tools at their disposal. The start-up cost is fairly inexpensive compared to what was once required to create a bricks-and-mortar business in bygone days (a decade ago). These influencers did not need a Hollywood agent to discover them—they

made their own way while cultivating a lifestyle. It’s genius and something we’ve not seen before. But at the core is the human need to be relevant, liked, or widely responded to daily, and that isn’t new. Being popular and well-liked is what we all wanted in high school and maybe even for years afterward.

The retail industry was one of the first to recognize the unstoppable power of the influencer. A paradigm shift occurred when consumers responded by purchasing goods and services influencers endorsed on social media. Traditionally (pre-influencer craze), consumers were swayed via traditional advertising and marketing campaigns, which to some degree seem so yesterday; even though the medium still exists, the brand’s ethos must match the consumers, and all channels are now needed to cast a wide net for potential sales. Retailers now connect with influencers relevant to their respective products and brands. They are the new “word of mouth” form of advertising, which always will be the best method. Influencers are the new digital flagship stores, and dreams are also realized for them as they connect with their fanbases in what becomes a somewhat intimate relationship, or at least the pretense of one.

In 2011, the shopping platform LTK (LIKEtoKNOW.it) was just an idea. It started as a dream to help brands and lifestyle influencers monetize their digital spaces. Today, LTK moves $2.5 billion in annual brand sales with distributed original content. Hence, a new business model was born that is here to stay.

One of the most interesting aspects of creating this issue is that we are featuring it on the printed pages of our magazine (and, yes, digitally as well)—I love a good juxtaposition. I find the digital world a more exciting place with an endless stream of new information, but sometimes, I want to curl up with a good book and unplug until I need my next online fix. Here’s to the future and the past, as they are both great teachers.

To Life!

—Lisa Marie Burwell CEO/Editor-in-Chief/Creative Director

Photo by Aranka Israni

We collaborate with talented photographers, writers, and other creatives on a regular basis, and we’re continually inspired by how they pour their hearts and souls into their crafts. Follow these creatives on social media and don’t forget to check out our account, @viemagazine.

IN THIS ISSUE, WE ASKED THE CREATIVES: WHAT DO YOU THINK MAKES SOMEONE AN “INFLUENCER”?

SALLY NEAL

Art Director @sallyneal__

I think an influencer is someone who lives a life people aspire to have. For some people that's a life filled with baking and home goods, for others it's someone whose life is filled with fashion runways and outfit inspiration. An influencer influences. It's truly as simple as that. They show you things you may never have even known you wanted (or needed) out of life. Whether that's the way you live or the things you buy.

JORDAN STAGGS Editor @jordanlstaggs

There have been influencers throughout all of human times. You could probably even call Jesus an influencer if you want to get really deep. Cleopatra, Catherine the Great, Gandhi, Leonardo da Vinci, Albert Einstein— these are the people who are fashionable, intelligent, inspiring, or good leaders. They’re people you want to follow or aspire to become. Today, we mostly see that on Instagram, YouTube, or TikTok, but as you’ll see in this issue, not every influencer is huge on social media. An influencer is anyone you find inspiring and could mean different things to different people. You might be an influencer to others and not even know it!

JACK KIRKENDALL

Design Studio Ambassador @jackirkendall

What makes an influencer is in the name. These people have some sort of influence over their audience and typically have a different, unique perspective on whatever “niche” their content gets categorized into. They have a sense of relatability to their audience, and their following can find likeness in how the influencer portrays themself online. I think something that draws me to certain influencers is humor and the ability to remain human even behind a mic and camera.

JANE SPIVEY NICHOLSON Director of Marketing @kdb17

I think what makes someone or even something an “influencer” is how they make you feel or what they make you aspire to be. One could argue that magical travel destinations are influencers; rarely does someone leave a great vacation and not ask themselves whether they could turn their life upside down and move there. However, the same can be said for individuals who guide us daily on what to read, how to grow our businesses, the best way to clean our homes, how to dress—the list goes on. If you have a passion for something and a heart for sharing it, whether you convey it through social media, your business, or word of mouth, you are definitely influencing.

CLEOPATRA, CATHERINE THE GREAT, GANDHI, LEONARDO DA VINCI, ALBERT EINSTEIN— THESE ARE THE PEOPLE WHO ARE FASHIONABLE, INTELLIGENT, INSPIRING, OR GOOD LEADERS.

KELLY CURRY

Do It for the ’Gram

We love connecting with our readers and seeing what’s happening in the community. Don’t forget to share, post, and tag VIE in all your exciting conversations and experiences! We enjoy nothing more than hearing your stories and sharing them with our audience. Thank you, and happy reading!

@rosemary_beachfl Main Street can’t be beat! Did you know that Rosemary Beach is considered to be one of the most romantic small towns in the US? Take a walk down the cobblestones of Main Street and experience the allure for yourself!

@30ave Get the party started as 30A’s newest hangout, #IdyllHoundProper, has officially opened their doors at 30Avenue. This hip and vibrant gastro pub is set to become the talk of the town.

@bffeverybody It’s Friday Junior! What’re your plans for the weekend? We hope they include your b.f.f. Stop by and see us if you’re in @seasidefl

LET’S TALK!

Send VIE your comments and photos on our social media channels or by emailing us at info@viemagazine.com. We’d love to hear your thoughts. They could end up in the next La conversation!

VIEmagazine.com

@alysbeach The sun is out. The weekend has arrived. #alysbeach #paradise

@budandalleys Perfect weather, the best view, and delicious food—it doesn’t get better than that!

@hotz_coffee Treat yourself today. We’re open until 2 PM! #graytonbeach @chiringograyton

Stay updated on all things beauty with Lauryn Bosstick. Follow on Instagram @laurynbosstick or visit TheSkinnyConfidential.com for more.

Sartorial

STRIKE A POSE

You can credit Lauryn Bosstick for contributing to the popularity of the facial ice roller trend, hailed as a favorite for combating morning puffiness and boosting circulation. The powerhouse behind the lifestyle brand The Skinny Confidential, she’s brought forth uniquely designed products—like the Hot Mess Roller and the newly introduced Le Spoon Body Sculptor—addressing the rising demand for sculpting tools as the advantages of lymphatic drainage become more prominent on social media. Still, Bosstick offers more than beauty innovations. She’s an open book of knowledge, quite literally, with her tell-all titled The Skinny Confidential’s Get the F*ck Out of the Sun: Routines, Products, Tips, and Insider Secrets from 100+ of the World’s Best Skincare Gurus . Alongside her husband, Michael, founder and CEO of Dear Media, she co-hosts The Him and Her Show podcast, covering topics ranging from beauty to business. With a “spitfire” following across platforms and her clear entrepreneurial insight, Bosstick embodies the role of the modern influencer.

CREATING A

MUSE

THE POWER OF THE INFLUENCER

BY JORDAN STAGGS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAUREN ATHALIA

What does it take for someone to become a muse? That’s a question Emily Raffield has often pondered since starting her clothing and lifestyle brand, BECASA, which boasts two retail locations along the Gulf of Mexico and a robust online presence. It’s also the question that was top of mind for her as we discussed BECASA’s recent lifestyle shoot with social media influencer and model Rachel Autenrieth, with whom Raffield has worked on her collection’s campaign shoots for about four years now.

“I recognized Rachel had that ability to bring a campaign to life for us,” Raffield shares of the fashion-focused influencer with an audience of around 206,000 across Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok. “Whatever we create with her is usually a leading campaign. She has the look and the talent and puts off a subtle, relaxed vibe that is

very BECASA. It’s the vibe we want our brand to exude, and that’s hard to find in a model. There have been only a few others over the years who genuinely match that.”

It’s that certain je ne sais quoi, Raffield says, that lends another layer of allure to the sphere of online influencers, who have been a rising force in brand marketing for the past several years now. Anyone can put on an article of clothing or use a particular product and share their thoughts on social media, but what makes a real influencer is harder to pinpoint. It requires charisma that cannot always be taught and cannot feel forced. When amassing the collection of influencers featured in this issue of VIE, we noticed an undercurrent of authenticity and confidence that ran through this socially savvy group. But what makes people flock to their Instagram, TikTok, or blog accounts?

STYLING BY BECASA; EMILY RAFFIELD AND SARA AGUILAR | MAKEUP BY STACY ALDERSON

Linen Scout Top by BECASA

hey’re showcasing a lifestyle people aspire to have,” says Raffield, who is an influence in her own right, though she’s reluctant to admit it. Her 2015 coffee-table book, Saints of Old Florida, showcases the Gulf Coast lifestyle that exists only along the “Forgotten Coast” surrounding her hometown of Apalachicola. The book sparked many readers to emulate that laidback, fishing-town mentality of slow living, authenticity (again, a key to any true influencer’s mission), family, and respect for the beautiful world around you.

BECASA was born from that desire in 2018, first as an online storefront and later her first bricks-and-mortar boutique in Apalach’. She now has a second location in the 30Avenue lifestyle center at Inlet Beach. Raffield typically prefers to let others shine on camera when modeling her clothing. Still, she is undeniably the beating heart of the BECASA lifestyle, sharing her stories via the brand’s blog, social media channels, and email newsletters. She, like many influencers, is a talented storyteller. Her words, photographs, and products paint the complete picture of a beautiful lifestyle many others aspire to have.

INFLUENCERS ARE SHOWCASING A LIFESTYLE PEOPLE ASPIRE TO HAVE.

As a business owner, her perspective on the “influencer craze” is a bit different. Nearly every brand, from the independently run small business to the largest corporation, now works with influencers—lifestyle ambassadors who are not necessarily celebrities but have amassed huge followings on social media or other online channels—to promote their wares. This promotion could be as simple as posting a photo wearing a piece of clothing and tagging the brand. It can also go as in-depth as hosting giveaways for the influencer’s audience, inviting them to exclusive events, having them tell their story and how it connects to the brand they are sharing, and more.

“We went through the blogger and print decade for promotions, and now these people have the mic,” Raffield says of the social media celebs, some of whom have millions of followers across various channels. Still, not every influencer collaboration helps grow a business. “The success rate can vary,” she continues. “You have to do your homework and find people to work with who share your love of something.” She likens finding the right influencers to connecting with your kin. “You all want to be able to hang out and have fun, to become friends; that’s what makes this process special.”

Like in many business and creative ventures, collaboration is key when working with influencers. A team of people comes together to style and shoot every BECASA campaign, and Raffield understands that every one of them brings something unique to the table and has influence in their own way. Photographer Lauren Athalia, she says, is a “master of light.” She has shot many BECASA campaigns for around four years, as well. “Lauren has a dynamic eye that’s rare. She guides each shoot with light, the pieces in each shot, the background, the motion, the mood,” Raffield expounds.

Opposite: Dress by Anna October Swimwear by Peony

Above: BECASA founder Emily Raffield styles a table for a lifestyle shoot debuting the line’s new Palmetto Collection, featuring fabric created in collaboration with Heirloomed textiles.

Sara Aguilar, part of the BECASA team, works heavily in styling each shoot. Stacy Alderson is the beauty guru behind the breezy, natural makeup looks that exude Gulf Coast glamour. This talented group of women converged to create a muse when working with Autenrieth.

“We can shoot for nine hours, and we try to capture things that make you feel a certain way.” Beyond just the models and clothing, this could mean a long boardwalk, a fence along the edge of a sand dune, or a palm leaf, for example. “People know that feeling. That’s what we’re sharing—the beach.”

The beach, in many ways, is the original influencer of the Gulf Coast. Millions have flocked to its white sands and emerald waters for centuries, seeking a specific way of life that can only be found along the shore. “The beach is so powerful because everyone can share it,” Raffield muses. “It’s connected to so many experiences at all ages for so many people; it’s part of some of their best memories. Living here, you experience it in a different way. It’s a divine thing.”

The beautiful setting, shops, restaurants, architecture, and opportunities along the Northwest Florida Gulf Coast have also prompted many young people to move to the area to be online influencers. “It goes back to the aspirational lifestyle thing we talked about,” says Raffield. “People want to be here when they can’t be, so they’ll follow these influencers to get a dose of that when they’re at home.”

This phenomenon is fascinating to witness and influential in itself, as the new group of residents and their followers who visit, in turn, change the dynamics of a place.

Whether sharing all the area’s “secrets” or promoting it to the point that it could become overcrowded is a good or bad thing remains to be seen, and the BECASA owner recognizes that. “The sheer beauty of the 30-A area is so unique—that’s rare, and so is the rural nature of Apalachicola. It’s our job to share this place in a way that protects and honors it as a natural resource,” she says. “It’s important to respect that and give people information in a responsible way, both in preserving the area’s integrity and in how we influence our audience. I’m very aware of what I observe daily on social media and what it can do to your headspace. My goal is to preserve our authenticity in anything we do, especially digitally; we want to build a community that trusts us and to be aware of the impact we have on our followers.”

BECASA x Heirloomed Palmetto Collection

BECASA releases several collections of beach-inspired clothing and lifestyle products annually, undergoes big and small photo shoots, hosts trunk shows and book signings, and collaborates on special events such as dinners and retreats. Raffield says it’s crucial to her to showcase the beach in different ways and let the styling shine. Each piece and accessory is shown off in the best light while retaining the relaxed, comfortable, and stylish brand message she and her team have built these past five years.

Working with an influencer like Autenrieth, who embodies what they promote every day, adds to the brand’s strong foundation. “Rachel and BECASA is such a fun and creative partnership,” Raffield shares. “She helped us style, pose, and direct this shoot. That’s the magic of it; everyone gets creative input, and it adds another layer to what we’re doing. Then Rachel shares it with her community. It’s classic networking in a new form, but it’s still all about authentic connection and outreach.”

Visit ShopBECASA.com to shop now, read Emily Raffield’s journal, or see the events calendar. Follow @becasa and @emilyraffield on Instagram for more content.

WORKING WITH AN INFLUENCER LIKE AUTENRIETH, WHO EMBODIES WHAT THEY PROMOTE EVERY DAY, ADDS TO THE BRAND’S STRONG FOUNDATION

Sartorial

Linen Scout Top by BECASA

Body chain by Reshelled Jewelry

RACHEL AUTENRIETH

Although she may be the muse for BECASA’s latest campaign and the Gulf Coast lifestyle it exudes, model and influencer Rachel Autenrieth is much more than that. As fellow (albeit fictional) influencer Daisy Jones said, “I am not a muse—I am the somebody.” VIE was thrilled to catch up with Autenrieth to learn more about how she got started on social media and how she balances online life while keeping it real.

VIE: How did you start using social media as a media platform as an influencer?

RACHEL AUTENRIETH: I have always loved documenting my life and memories with my friends and family. I grew up basically directing my neighbors and siblings or whoever I could pressure into making videos with me (lol). I would sit on the MacBook laptop that I begged my dad for and would edit them. It’s always been a passion of mine, and I look at social media as a life scrapbook or a memory placeholder.

COVID-19 hit when I was in college. I moved into my sister’s house for a few months and then to the beach with my parents for a few months after graduating online. During this time, I started posting a ton of content to all platforms and realized I was gaining a loyal following. I realized this was something I could monetize while sharing things I love, and I feel very lucky and thankful for it.

VIE: What is your favorite part about your job, and what is your least favorite?

RA: My least favorite part is dealing with the negativity and hate. The longer I remain on the internet, the more I realize I will never please everyone. It’s taken some time to get that through my head. But my favorite part would be the sweet and supportive messages I get daily, which are very rewarding. I also love being my own boss, making my own schedule, and working with brands I have worn and loved for years. It feels very surreal.

VIE: What is a highlight moment you’ve experienced as an influencer?

RA: A highlight moment would be a message I received from a college gal that read along the lines of how her mother had just passed away, and my YouTube content was the only thing getting her through the day. I think it was a shocking moment for me because it made me feel like what I put out there is being watched by actual human beings and helping people in a positive way, and I really, really love that.

BE PASSIONATE ABOUT WHAT YOU DO, WORK HARD, AND BE KIND!

VIE: What words of wisdom would you give someone interested in becoming an influencer or starting a brand?

RA: Do it for yourself and no one else! I used to be so scared to put myself out there because I was nervous about what people would say or think. Everyone likes to make fun of you when you are trying to “make it,” but once you “make it,” everyone wants advice and tips. Be passionate about what you do, work hard, and be kind!

VIE: What are you currently watching, listening to, or reading?

RA: Currently binge-listening to Olivia Rodrigo’s and Zach Bryan’s new albums. I am not a big reader, but I just wrapped up watching Hijack on Apple TV+, and I was on the edge of my seat the whole time. Definitely watch it if you like suspense/thrillers.

VIE: Besides your phone, what’s one thing you can’t leave home without?

RA: A good lip balm. I have a million all over the house and one in every purse I own!

VIE: What’s your top travel destination for fall?

RA: I would love to visit the mountains! I feel like it’s cozy and relaxing for fall.

VIE: What’s your favorite fall trend?

RA: Loving the ballet flats/loafers trend right now. Fall fashion is one of my favorites!

VIE: Thank you, Rachel!

Swimwear by Bahía María

TIMELESS STYLES FOR THE BEACH & BEYOND

The Seaside story that hasn’t been told . . . from the perspective of cofounder/visionary Daryl Rose Davis.

A brand-new luxury coffee-table book celebrating the rich history of the Town of SEASIDE ® and the evolution of The Seaside Style ® through 40 years of photos and stories.

Our morals live in every fiber of the brand. We like to live by the motto, as Brian says, ‘Work hard, do good, give back, and repeat.’

—BRITTNEY KELLEY

There isn’t one way to dress to be “in style” anymore—it’s all about finding what you like and going for it!

Brittney Cole Kelley thoroughly embodies that philosophy. She began creating and altering clothing and accessories in high school and college, and she ran an Etsy shop online as her first business. After she met Brian Kelley of country music duo Florida Georgia Line and the two got hitched, they realized their shared desire to support sustainable fashion made in the US was the perfect basis for a new business. Tribe Kelley, their lifestyle and clothing brand, now has a store in Grayton Beach, Florida, and a robust online following, building a tribe of like-minded fans and friends through fashion! Brittney also promotes mental health awareness and tips for wellness by supporting Love to Pivot Relational Alignment, which offers relationship coaching so patients can think, feel, and live better.

@tribekelley @tribekelleysurfpost @brittneykelley @briankelley @lovetopivot VIE June 2019 Cover

Photo by Brenna Kneiss

Jessica Fay

An online influencer for over a decade, Jessica Lynn Fay started her career in 2012 when she launched her blog, YouTube channel, and Pinterest account. But it’s now on Instagram, where she’s amassed over 325,000 followers and counting, that her audience connects most to her photos, Reels, and stories sharing everything from style tips to vacation destinations, recipes, product recommendations, and just relatable content about life and parenthood.

“Instagram did not become a big platform for me until early 2013 when it started to take off on a steady uphill climb,” Fay shares. “I began my career sharing my daily outfits and hair tutorials, which is some of what I still share today—eleven years since I started.”

We caught up with the fashionista, wife, world traveler, and young mom of three to get her take on her career as an influencer and her favorite trends for the season!

VIE: What is your favorite part about your job, and what is your least favorite?

Jessica Fay: Favorite: the people I have met and the opportunities my family and I have received. Least favorite: Everyone has an opinion or assumption about your life and how you are living it, and people typically like to let you know when they don’t agree with what you are doing.

VIE: What is a highlight moment you’ve had as an influencer?

JF: This one is hard because I feel so fortunate to have had many opportunities that have opened up to me. Being front row at many Miami Swim Week runway shows and Rebecca Minkoff shows at New York Fashion Week were major moments for me. Also, I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate on several travel campaigns with Disney World and Disney Cruises.

VIE : What words of wisdom would you give someone interested in becoming an influencer or starting a brand?

JF: Consistency and authenticity. Come out of the gate being exactly who you are. Like-minded people will be attracted to you and your brand. If you start by being someone or something that you are not, you will eventually exhaust yourself and not be able to continue with what you are doing. Unfortunately, people who started following you because of someone they thought you were will also lose interest in what you are doing.

“

VIE : What are you currently watching, listening to, or reading?

JF: I am really into The Skinny Confidential podcast right now. I like to listen to podcasts that motivate me in all aspects of life. I feel like she does a great job hitting all topics, such as healthy habits in both food and exercise, leveling up in life and careers, stress management, and life balance.

VIE : Besides your phone, what’s one thing you can’t leave home without?

JF: Water—very rarely do I not have a water bottle in my hand at all times. I’m a thirsty girl, lol! But I know that’s boring, so we can go with my plumping lip gloss!

VIE : What’s your top travel destination for fall?

JF: Somewhere cooler and where the leaves change. I would love to go to Jackson Hole; it is on the bucket list for me! I say this every year, but with our kids’ sports and school, I tend to travel less in the fall.

VIE : What’s your favorite fall trend?

JF: I love Western-style boots—not a new trend this fall, but they are my favorite thing to break out every year when the temps drop. Short or tall, there are so many ways to wear them!

I also am still loving sneakers with everything. Sneakers with dresses, sneakers with leather pants, or sneakers with cargo pants or cropped denim—it looks effortless yet finished. Yes, cargoes are back for this fall, too!

VIE : Thank you, Jess!

i Like to listEn to podcAsts that MotiVate me in all asPects of liFe.

Ryan and Jess Fay with their children (below), Braydon, Walker, and Charli

Photo by Savvibelle Photography

Necklace and earrings by Reshelled Jewelry

Under Par and Overdressed...

is the phrase cleverly coined by the team of fashionable athletes at Byrdie Golf Social Wear. Having grown up taking afternoon golf car rides with their grandmothers, founders Rachelle Williams and Hayden Shoffner learned a lot of lessons from them. The most important one they have put into practice is never to compromise your personal style for any occasion, even a hot day out on the links. Read more below about how this North Carolina-based duo has worked to actively bridge the gap between modern fashion and performance wear through thoughtful design and engaging their audience on social media.

VIE: How did you start using social media as a media platform as an influencer?

RACHELLE & HAYDEN: Social media has played a massive role in growing our business. Between Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok, we have engaged with our customers on such a personal level, which so many businesses benefit from. From the initial design phase through to the very end, our following gets to be part of the process. It makes the evolution of a collection that much stronger!

VIE: What is your favorite part about your job, and what is your least favorite?

R&H: The ability to be creative on our own terms is our favorite. Launching Byrdie Golf allowed us to design based on what we thought was missing in the market from our perspective and experience. We are always trying to push the envelope when it comes to golf apparel for women, but as creatives, we are our harshest critics, which can be a double-edged sword!

VIE: What is a highlight moment you’ve experienced as influencers and business owners?

R&H: It’s the little things that keep us going. We were recently in Harbour Island on a girls’ trip and saw a woman in a head-to-toe Byrdie ensemble, and it made our whole trip. Seeing women incorporate our pieces into their daily wardrobe makes everything worthwhile.

VIE: What words of wisdom would you give someone interested in becoming an influencer or starting a brand?

R&H: Take the leap of faith and trust the process! Nothing worth creating happens overnight, and a lot of blood, sweat, and tears go into a startup’s development phase (and beyond). If it is something you’re passionate about, make it happen because if you don’t, someone else will!

VIE: What are you currently watching, listening to, or reading?

R&H: Run, do not walk, to purchase Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus— the best read! Shrinking with Jason Segel on Apple TV+ has been the talk of the office—we are desperate for a second season—and Zach Bryan’s recent album has been on repeat at Byrdie HQ.

Take the leap of faith and trust the process!

VIE: Besides your phone, what’s one thing you can’t leave home without?

R&H: We love our Westman Atelier liquid lip balm and don’t go anywhere without it!

VIE: What’s your top travel destination for fall?

R&H: Our favorite fall hideaway is Cashiers in the North Carolina mountains. We love spending time with our husbands at High Hampton resort, as it is beyond dreamy in the fall! Think amazing food, killer martinis, and a roaring fire in the evenings.

VIE: What’s your favorite fall trend?

R&H: This season is all about the neutral staples for us. We are investing in pieces that can be paired in a hundred different ways. Dramatic wide-leg trousers with a fitted, ribbed tank and layered with a blazer will be the look on repeat!

On the

CHALLENGING THE STATUS QUO of LIFESTYLE LEISURE

INTERVIEW BY HAILEY BETHKE

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF DAILY DRILLS

MARY RALPH LAWSON & KENNEDY CRICHLOW

You may have seen the iconic “!!!” and comfy-cute matching sets take over your social media feed. Appealing to everyone from college girls and jetsetters to the most effortlessly stylish woman at the office, Daily Drills is it: the LA-based lifestyle brand has redefined the casual-chic domain of fashion. Founders Mary Ralph Lawson and Kennedy Crichlow started the brand as recent college graduates, combining their love for style with high-quality materials to make everyday pieces comfortable, unique, and it-girl-worthy.

The two met through social media almost a decade ago while working on a style account, and both ended up in California for college. “From there, we were introduced in real life through mutual friends and have been inseparable ever since! We’re both entrepreneurs at heart, and we constantly bounced ideas off each other, cheered each other on through our individual endeavors, and found random ways to work together,” the duo says.

“When the pandemic hit, and we had some extra time, we decided to put our talents together and follow our dream of starting a clothing brand. It was honestly an immediate ‘yes!’ Our strengths play well together; we have similar styles and have the same goals for the brand. After the initial idea, it only took four months to release our first collection.” Read on for an exclusive Q&A with these stylish female founders!

VIE: Why the name Daily Drills and tagline “on the daily”? Also, who came up with the branding?

MR & K: When we started Daily Drills, we thought it would be an activewear brand, so we wanted a name and tagline that motivated people to get up and get going each day. However, we quickly realized that we liked fashion a lot more than working out, and the idea of “on the daily” morphed into describing the mission of our brand: to design pieces that can be worn throughout all the stages of your day, transcend trends and seasons, and bring excitement to getting dressed every morning!

We both come from marketing and social media backgrounds, so we knew that good branding was vital to telling the story of Daily Drills. The “!” has been the center point of our branding from the very beginning. When discussing starting a brand, we used about ten thousand exclamation points in our texts, so we had to bring it into the logo! It captures the excitement and positivity of our brand and team. We all emphasize everything we do, and we like to work hard so we can play hard, too!

VIE: What’s your favorite Daily Drills collection?

KENNEDY: So hard, but I think I had the most fun shooting our Tuscany collection, which launched this past summer. I’ve always loved Tuscany, so the creative process of building a collection that evoked a sense of place and then actually traveling there to shoot it in person was a dream come true.

MARY RALPH: I’m constantly living in every Daily Drills collection, but my favorite collection to shoot had to be our first-ever swim collection in the Bahamas. I’m a beach girl, so designing swim was a passion project for me—and who doesn’t love a work trip to the Bahamas?

Below: Daily Drills founders Kennedy Crichlow and Mary Ralph Lawson Bradley

IF YOU’RE NOT BEING YOU, WHAT’S THE POINT?!

VIE: When did you both start focusing on creating an engaged community on social media? Did starting a brand together get you more exposure online, or did you start posting consistently on your personal accounts before Daily Drills was born?

MR & K: Our own personal followings took off fairly organically throughout high school and college. We’ve loved fashion forever and started posting lifestyle content when Instagram first started, and it grew from there! While neither of us really intended for it to become a career, we feel so blessed to share our lives and interact with our followers.

While we’d been posting consistently on our accounts long before Daily Drills was born, it’s given us more exposure . . . and our personal followings give the brand exposure, too! Part of Daily Drills’ success comes from our followers always wanting to know what we were wearing, and Daily Drills is essentially a collection of everything we wished we had in our closets!

VIE: What does being an “influencer” mean to you? How do you practice showing up authentically online? And what is something you wish people knew about you beyond the screen?

MR & K: It’s so special knowing that there are girls out there watching us follow our dreams of starting a clothing line, and we hope to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs that it’s never too soon to get started! Since we both became “influencers” at a young age and sharing our lives on social media has been part of our nature for so long, it’s not super hard to be our authentic selves online! If you’re not being you, what’s the point? We do like posting content in real-time to take our followers along with us throughout our days, and we make sure to add our own language and personality to branded content.

One thing we wish people knew about us beyond the screen is that even though our followers might not see it, the lows are there to match our highs. We prefer sharing the good stuff to keep Instagram a positive space, but obviously, our lives are far from perfect!

VIE: What’s your secret for prioritizing true friendship in the office and outside it?

MR & K: Prioritizing our friendship has been super important to us since day one but has never really been an issue. It’s very rare that we disagree on something for our business, and when we do, we can always resolve it over an Aperol spritz post-work! We make a point to eat lunch together every day during the week and often find ourselves doing the

same on the weekends. Our husbands have also become friends, so we love spending time as couples outside of the office. The best part about working with your best friend is that we have someone to cheer for at the end of a good day and someone to share the burden with at the end of a not-so-good day.

VIE: Tell us about your team dynamics and how you work your magic behind the scenes.

MR & K: One thing we love about our team dynamic is that the best idea always wins! No matter whether one of us, an intern, our photographer, or a friend comes up with a design concept, if we like it, we run with it. We’re a lean team, so we love hearing everyone’s input as we brainstorm what’s next for Daily Drills. It’s also been important to surround ourselves with people we want to work with. Because we’re a small team, when one person is in a bad mood, it affects the entire vibe of the office. When interviewing potential employees, we love for them to spend some time with each existing team member to ensure they are a good personality match over anything else. You can teach skill, but you can’t teach personality!

VIE: Where do you see yourself in five years?

MR & K: We’d love for Daily Drills to grow as we do! We plan to expand our men’s collection (so our husbands can stop begging!), reach new audiences, and allow the brand to reflect our personal growth. When the two of us start to have kids, we’d love to launch some pieces for the littles. But before that happens— travel everywhere and anywhere we can!

VIE: What’s one of your talents that lies deeper than what meets the eye?

KENNEDY: I’ve been told I’m very organized at work, but it doesn’t stop at the office! I’m that friend who will create a whole itinerary of fun activities and reservations for a weekend getaway.

MARY RALPH: A lot of people compliment me on styling when it comes to outfits, but I bring that skill into my environment, too—from styling our office to my home or Daily Drills events. I love putting the pieces together in an aesthetic yet comfortable way!

SOME FUN SHORT QUESTIONS WITH DAILY DRILLS!

FAVORITE MANTRA: SAY YES OFTEN, BUT SAY NO OFTEN ENOUGH TO MAKE YOUR YESES COUNT.

FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND TIME ALONE: A WALK ALONG THE BLUFF

FAVORITE PART OF LIVING IN LA: BEING SO CLOSE TO THE BEACH!

AN UNPOPULAR OPINION: NEUTRALS ARE BORING.

DAILY DRILLS SWIM OR SWEAT SET? KENNEDY SAYS SWEATS, RALPH SAYS SWIM!

ONE THING THAT WILL ALWAYS MAKE YOU LAUGH: EACH OTHER!

YOUR GO-TO SWEET OR SALTY TREAT: ACAI BOWLS!

IF YOU HAD A BILLBOARD TO SHARE ONE MESSAGE WITH EVERYONE IN THE WORLD, WHAT WOULD IT BE? ACTIVELY SEARCH FOR THE GOOD IN LIFE!

VIE: What is your favorite Daily Drills color or style from the past that you would love to bring back?

KENNEDY: Our New York Collection. But that might just be so I have an excuse for an NYC trip soon!

MARY RALPH: Our blazers! I love styling mine up for events and down for a day in the office. It’s a closet staple that I definitely need in more colors.

VIE: What are some of your favorite Daily Drills products for us to check out? What insights can you give us on exciting things coming soon?

MR & K: We drop new collections twice a month on ShopDailyDrills.com at 10:00 a.m. PST on Wednesdays! An insider tip is to download our app because that’s where every collection launches five minutes early to give you a head start on snagging your favorite pieces. Keep a close eye on our socials for sneak peeks, news, and surprises. Every Friday, we share a “Friday Happy” on our app, ranging from mini collections to coffee to free gifts with purchase!

To connect with Mary Ralph, Kennedy, and the Daily Drills team, head to ShopDailyDrills.com and follow along on Instagram @dailydrills, @kennedycrichlow, and @maryralph.

Let's Talk Wellness

“They’re spiritual seekers, heart-centered entrepreneurs, community leaders, and, above all else, two best friends tackling big conversations with ease and a lot of laughter.” We were thrilled to feature Lindsey Simcik and Krista Williams, founders and hosts of the Global Top 50 wellness and spirituality podcasts Almost 30 and Morning Microdose, in our first issue of 2023! These powerhouse entrepreneurs and wellness gurus shared their inspirations, struggles, and tips on living your best life in our feature for the Wellness Issue and on our VIE Speaks: Conversations with Heart & Soul podcast hosted by Lisa Marie Burwell in Episode 40!

VIE January 2023 Cover

Photo by Heather Shane

Jami Anderson Ray

@ 30AMAMA | @ JAMIRAY | SHOP.30AMAMA.COM

ooking to add more golden hours into your life? Look no further for inspiration than Florida-based lifestyle blogger Jami Ray, who loves to share cotton candy-colored skies, family travels, and outfit ideas for fashionistas of all ages. When she isn’t letting us in on her latest style and travel tips, this mom of two is designing colorful graphics for the town of Seaside, Florida, as well as her online storefront, 30A Mama. Ray loves to curate content for herself and helps fellow entrepreneurs with branding, strategy, and graphic design. Learn more about her below!

VIE : How did you start using social media as an influencer?

Jami Ray: In 2012, I started a blog called 30A Street Style and began sharing outfits I spotted around town. I’d post the images and outfit details on Instagram, including current trends, inspiration boards, outfit ideas for events, and my style choices. Eventually, I got so many requests for mom content that it transitioned into my personal lifestyle platform focused on style, beauty, family travel, and sharing our 30-A area favorites. Now, in addition to sharing other brands I enjoy, I have my own little online shop with sunset prints, photography, and curated fashion.

VIE : What is your favorite part about your job, and what is your least favorite?

JR: I absolutely love brainstorming creative ideas and mapping out a photo shoot, a campaign, or a content plan, whether it’s for a brand collaboration, a UGC project, or my own products. I like to think big and then get into the details of how to make it happen and what that looks like. I love sharing everyday moments like my beauty routine, what my kids are loving, or my Amazon finds. It’s so easy to share what’s true to me. My least favorite part is the feeling of trying to “keep up” with new platforms and so many industry trends, so I try to shut out unnecessary comparison and sensory overload if I feel overwhelmed.

VIE : What is a highlight moment you’ve had as an influencer?

JR: Overall, my shining moments have been more personal with my family over the years. Partnering with destinations and brands who have shared incredible experiences with us and given me the opportunity to make special memories has been invaluable. From Disney to the Florida Keys to NYC, we’ve had many moments where my girls have seen firsthand how creativity and imagination can bring tangible fun and give you the power to write your story.

VIE : What words of wisdom would you give someone who is interested in becoming an influencer or starting a brand?

JR: Think strategically, but work from the heart. Even in a creative field, you need to have a business mindset to have staying power as a brand. Still, you have to be happy and fulfilled by the little things to put in the work daily and show up with goals in mind.

VIE : What are you currently watching, listening to, or reading?

JR: For me, a podcast or audiobook is the way to go. For books, I love true crime, a thriller with a twist, or a good drama. I loved The Nightingale and just finished The Rose Code. For podcasts, I’m into the new season of Over My Dead Body, love a good SmartLess episode, and count The Toast as my guilty pleasure.

VIE : Besides your phone, what’s one thing you can’t leave home without?

JR: My iPad is essential. I’m addicted to Goodnotes and Procreate for organizing and scratching out concepts.

Creativity and imagination can bring tangible fun and give you the power to write your story.

VIE : What’s your top travel destination for fall?

JR: I would love to take a mini tour of the Northeast and hop between a few small towns in Vermont and some coastal spots in New Hampshire and Maine.

VIE : What’s your favorite fall trend?

JR: I’m loving classic silhouettes in luxe textures right now—blazers and dresses in silky finishes, sequins, and pretty 3D flower fabrics.

VIE : Thank you, Jami!

Photo by Kiana Tate Photography

Laura Citron

Photo by Daniel Meigs

Laura Citron & Andrew Clancey

ouples who do business together and support each other’s career goals are major influencers for anyone looking to start a company or work side by side with their significant other. Spending so much time together can be challenging, learning to balance work and life. Laura Citron and Andrew Clancey are Nashville-based fashion designers and influencers in their own right; Citron through her eponymous fashion label and Clancey through his rock-and-roll-inspired brand, Any Old Iron. Both thrive on sparkles, sequins, and voyages to beautiful places worldwide, and they have collaborated on numerous collections and events throughout the years.

In addition to headlining Charleston Fashion Week this fall, Citron is planning a runway show at Virgin New Orleans leading up to Mardi Gras, in collaboration with Any Old Iron. “I’m originally from Louisiana, and this will be my first show in my home state,” she says. “I couldn’t be more excited to celebrate my favorite holiday with a fashion show.”

Clancey, meanwhile, recently collaborated with the Smiley brand on a new sparkly clothing line for men and women. “I’m super proud to have been picked to work with them,” Clancey shares. “Ralph Lauren, Moschino, and H&M all do collections with them, so this feels like a big deal for me. The launch party is on October 7 at the Dive Motel here in Nashville. It’s an open invite, so check out our socials for more info.”

Let’s catch up with the dynamic duo on all things social media, fashion, and inspiration!

Andrew Clancey

VIE: How did you start using social media as an influencer?

Laura Citron: Social media is a way to expand and connect with your audience beyond what is in your immediate proximity. I quickly realized that early on when I created my clothing line. Through Instagram specifically, I began meeting people who started following, re-posting, and buying from all over the world! It’s a pretty cool feeling when you find your people!

Andrew Clancey: Firstly, I don’t identify as an influencer; I never liked the term. If some things I do influence people, that’s great, and I’m pleased for them, but I think you should play the key part in influencing yourself. Don’t be a follower. I started on Instagram a few months after it launched, and it was first a way to amuse myself with a mixture of satire and fashion. Some of it I’m not sure if I could get away with today! Nowadays, it’s IG stories to amuse myself and my main feed as a brand tool to raise awareness of what we do.

VIE: What is your favorite part about your job, and what is your least favorite?

LC: My favorite part about my job is connecting with amazing humans! I am lucky that my customers and supporters are some of the kindest, most creative, talented people out there. My least favorite part about my job is anything to do with finances and spreadsheets! I am right-brained, through and through.

AC: My favorite part is creating new clothing from conception to runway show. I’m already designing the next collection before the current one makes its debut. I make clothes to make money to make more clothes. I’d be dangerous with a Gucci budget! My least favorite is schlepping sequins everywhere, from pop-ups to runway shows in other cities. Those suckers can be heavy!

VIE: What is a highlight moment you’ve experienced as an influencer?

LC: One of my proudest moments so far was when my Gwenyth Set was published in Vogue on Jake Wesley Rogers last year! They are calling him this generation’s Elton John. Having a feature in Vogue is every fashion designer’s dream. The funniest part is that it was a complete surprise. My stylist friend Josh Owen pulled the set for a shoot with Jake, but Vogue was never mentioned. Then the photographer, Gina Binkley, later emailed saying, “Well, well, well, surprise!” Best. Day. Ever.

AC: I think as a designer, I would say having celebrities wear something I made. Top three: Jane Fonda (holy crap, I dressed Barbarella); second, Lady Gaga (I may get buried in that suit—with some alterations); and third, the Beyoncé jacket (which I sleep in).

I think originality is key; find your voice, and don’t stop.

VIE: What words of wisdom would you give someone interested in becoming an influencer?

LC: Be yourself—everyone else is taken! Truly though. People shine their brightest when they stop trying to be like everyone else and embrace what makes them unique! Don’t worry that people won’t like you. If you like yourself and be yourself, you will attract the right people who appreciate you for all you are! That will mean so much more than being liked for being someone you aren’t.

AC: I think originality is key; find your voice, and don’t stop. I remember coming in second or third place at South Walton Fashion Week, and Lisa Burwell and Ashley Longshore both said to me, “Keep doing what you do, don’t change anything,” which stuck with me. Be younique—just made that word up, haha!

VIE: What are you currently watching, listening to, or reading?

LC: Watching: I love crime/investigation series! I’m currently watching a great Netflix program called Who Is Erin Carter? I just finished a clever dark comedy called Beef. I love to balance those programs with a feel-good show after! Recent favorites have been Ted Lasso, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, and Loot

Reading: I’m currently reading It’s All About the Dress by your former VIE cover feature, fashion designer Vicky Tiel. It was a sweet gift from Lisa Burwell! Vicky’s life reads like a fairy tale with fashionable best friends like Elizabeth Taylor and surprising adventures in exotic places.

Listening: I’m an old soul and grew up with a discoloving mother who always had Diana Ross and Motown playing, and it’s still my favorite music! There’s also been a resurgence of disco-inspired new music. Some of my favorites are Jessie Ware, Róisín Murphy, Robyn, Daft Punk, and Scissor Sisters.

AC: Going to the Arctic Monkeys show tonight here in Nashville and reading about all things India, with Shantaram being the most epic book I’ve ever read. I’m also listening to my dog crying at me as she wants her rubber bone thrown. We call her a Boston Terror.

VIE: Besides your phone, what’s one thing you can’t leave home without?

LC: Sunscreen! I paid the price for being a sun worshipper in my younger years when skin cancer popped up five years ago. Now, I slather and protect religiously. Wear your sunscreen!

AC: Laura Citron—it’s cheaper to take her with me than all the presents I buy when we’re apart.

VIE: What’s your top travel destination for fall?

LC: Charleston, South Carolina. I was chosen as the winner of the 2023 Emerging Designer Competition for Charleston Fashion Week, and I’ll be showing my collection as the headlining designer on Friday, October 13!

AC: Heading to LA in mid-October to see family and check out fabrics, then India in January for production and vacation combined. It’s rarely just vacation.

LC: Statement jackets and coats. I love swanning around in my vintage ’70s floor-length leopard print faux-fur coat. It makes any mundane errand feel oh-so-fabulous! Don’t save your special pieces for the “right” occasion; make grocery shopping that occasion, and you’ll instantly elevate your ordinary!

AC: Sweatshirts—or swearshirts, as my store manager Shelby calls them. It’s that time of year again for sparkling profanity!

VIE: What’s your favorite fall trend?

“People shine their brightest when they stop trying to be like everyone else.”

Influencer Michelle Norris wearing Laura Citron

Below: A gorgeous iridescent suit by Any Old Iron

Photo by Debbi Clark

Below left: Pink suit by Laura Citron

Photo by Jason Atherton

Top right: Laura Citron designs in a fun retroinspired lifestyle shoot

Photo by Tiffany Bolk

hen the first Ophelia Swimwear shop opened in Grayton Beach, Florida, in 2010, owner and founder Victoria “Tori” Von Hoene knew immediately that social media would be an essential marketing tool for her new brand. She planned a photo shoot before the shop opened, highlighting some of her closest friends (Jenn McAlexander, Janet Taylor, and Laura Granberry) to be her original Ophelia girls, modeling bikinis, loungewear, and accessories promoting the ethereal, breezy beach lifestyle that Ophelia exudes. “My good friend Ann Madden took pictures with her point-and-shoot camera, and I created an Ophelia Facebook page to share what we’d created,” Von Hoene recalls. “Right away, locals started following!”

Fast-forward thirteen years, and Ophelia Swimwear boasts three brick-and-mortar locations, an e-commerce store, over forty-four thousand Instagram followers across Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok, and its swimwear line, Ophelia Love. VIE was fascinated by Ophelia’s work with various influencers across these social media channels and how the practice has been integral to marketing the business over the past several years. Check out our interview with Von Hoene below as we pick her brain about what it’s like to run a business today.

VIE: How has the influencer marketing trend changed your business?

Tori Von Hoene: As social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok have grown and the influencer world has become a bigger business, our customers are getting younger and younger. Sometimes, there’s pressure to carry the styles trending on social media, even if we weren’t initially drawn to those styles at market. We pay attention to what the girls with great style love and what we think our customers will also resonate with; the Ophelia girl has that classically cool feel.

We buy for the girls following us on social media, but we want all women to feel beautiful in their swimwear, and there’s a variety of types of women who shop with us. It’s moms and daughters and women of all ages and sizes.

Ophelia has a dedicated social media manager position, and something that started as a fun side thing that I did myself has become a major component of our business. We have to keep up daily with multiple platforms—Instagram, TikTok, Pinterest, and blogging. We receive messages from everyone from bloggers and influencers to celebs and sorority girls who love what we do and want to collaborate and receive products in exchange for posts. We love that they’re so excited to potentially work with us! We also reach out to influencers who may be visiting our area and who we think align with our brand.

VIE: What are some pros and cons of working with influencers as a marketing source?

TVH: On the plus side, working with influencers gives us great photos of our inventory—photos that show how suits and outfits look on real, relatable people! We love sharing those images to promote our collections and to shout out the

girls showing us love! Many influencers have gained their followers authentically, so those followers get inspired when an influencer organically showcases what they’re wearing for different occasions.

On the downside, working with influencers can be a gamble. There’s no guarantee that you’ll get any sales or return on your investment, especially since influencing has become a business. We used to collaborate with influential people before “influencing” was even a word, and they loved getting free suits, outfits, or gift cards. The new influencer is doing this as a full-time job, and we love seeing young entrepreneurs going for it. They have rates for posts and shoutouts, but it doesn’t mean we’ll see sales from them.

This spread and next: Photos by Kiana Tate Photography (@kianatatephotography)

Jewelry by Reshelled Jewelry (@reshelledjewelry)

The Ophelia girl has that classically cool feel.

VIE: How do you decide who to work with as a brand ambassador?

TVH: I used to look at the number of followers someone had, but that doesn’t matter as much anymore. Now, I look at a potential brand ambassador’s style and that of their friends. I find that influencers who promote many products don’t have as big of a return for us. We have the best luck with girls who have organically gained followers because their friends like their sense of style.

VIE: Who is one of the biggest or most effective influencers you have worked with and why do you think they fit your brand so well?

TVH: Alden Easter Lopez, or @aceatthebeach, is hands down the most effective influencer we’ve worked with. She naturally became an influencer in the early days of Instagram. She was a sweet, young girl living at the beach, and people loved her photos and take on beach life. Her genuine personality and love for the beach shone through in her pictures, and she quickly gained hundreds of new followers daily.

This was before becoming an “influencer” was even a thing. Alden suddenly had thousands of followers—young girls who looked up to her and her style as what they should wear at the beach. We’ve worked with her since she was fifteen; her fans have stayed with us as they’ve grown up. She’s now twenty-seven. Alden is one of the few influencers whose fans immediately call our shop or stop in to buy whatever she’s wearing in a picture.

Alden is a perfect fit for our brand because she’s genuine, authentic, and has a great sense of style. She loves the beach and Ophelia Swimwear, and her followers can tell.

VIE: How does Ophelia strive to stay relevant in relation to current trends in fashion, pop culture, social media, film/TV, and more?

TVH: Fashion, even swimwear fashion, is constantly evolving. It’s a balancing act between what will trend on social media and what will actually sell in the shops because of good fit, tailoring, and high-quality fabrics. Many things that catch people’s eyes on the screen don’t fit well on most women’s bodies.

VIE: What trends or designs do you see coming up for fall and 2024?

TVH: Swimwear is becoming more romantic and feminine again. We saw a lot of ruffles, pleats, and pearl embroidery at Miami Swim Week and market, so you’ll see more of that coming to our shops.

VIE: What are you currently watching, listening to, or reading?

TVH: I love Netflix’s new documentary Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones I find it fascinating and inspiring to see the importance of diet, exercise, family, and life values.

VIE: What’s your top travel destination for fall?

TVH: I am partial to Colombia and the beautiful people in that country. The Ophelia team spends a lot of time in Medellin producing our swimwear label, Ophelia Love. This city of eternal spring is in a valley with some of the most stunning landscapes and vegetation I have ever seen. Every time I travel back there,

Fashion, even swimwear fashion, is constantly evolving. It's a balancing act between what will trend on social media and what will actually sell in the shops.

I’m reminded of Colombia’s magic: the colors, experiences, locals, cities and beaches, nature—it’s all so inspiring!

VIE: Any big plans or events you’d like to share?

TVH: Yes! At Ophelia, we’re in our third year of designing our “Ophelia Love” label. Our designer, Claire Harman, and I spend our off-season traveling to Colombia and India to meet local artisans who help bring our ideas to life. Claire is a fashion design major who has been instrumental in making sure the fit of our swimwear is flawless and figure-flattering for all of our customers. When customers come in and try our collections on, they’re amazed by the color, feel, and fit. Claire’s knowledge of fabric dying helps our artists in India create our one-of-a-kind tunics with natural handmade dyes.

VIE: Thank you, Tori!

La maison

WHERE THE HEART IS

Sasha

The

the go-to

designer for the young and wealthy, epitomizes a masterful fusion of audacious design and tasteful irreverence. Fearlessly embracing bold colors and patterns, she crafts spaces that transcend the ordinary, captivating all who enter with their almost psychedelic appeal. Her designs artfully blend historical influences, uniting styles such as Memphis design with French eighteenth-century opulence, rococo with space-age modernism, or Italian Futurism with 1980s chintz-mania. Bikoff’s background in fine art and art history and early experiences at the esteemed Gagosian Gallery laid the foundation for her eponymous firm. Her artistic vision extends beyond residential to museums, restaurants, bars, and retail stores, often celebrated for their Instagram-worthy appeal. She has also collaborated with renowned brands such as Vervain, Versace, Fabricut, Rug Art, New Ravenna, and Currey & Company, to name a few.

The perfect pink table setting designed by Sasha Bikoff at The Holiday Day House Soho is just a glimpse into her captivating work. Keep up with Sasha on Instagram @sashabikoff, or visit SashaBikoff.com to explore more.

Photo courtesy of Sasha Bikoff

Bikoff, lauded by

New York Times as

interior

FEEL GOOD FOODIE

YUMNA JAWAD

ike many social media pros today, Yumna Jawad began using Instagram back in 2013 as a personal photo experiment. She hoped to find a way to turn it into a lucrative endeavor that would allow her to spend more time with her newborn. “I had just had my son, and I decided to start taking photos of the recipes I was trying at home and share them on Instagram— things quickly took off,” she shares. “I had a job in marketing, but I loved being a mom and wanted to find a way to have a career but be home more often and invest more time in my family. Instagram taking off was just the start of what became Feel Good Foodie.”

Today, Feel Good Foodie is an online community and meal-planning service with 4.2 million followers on Instagram, plus millions of website visitors and subscribers who wish to engage with Jawad and take advantage of her expert tips and recipes for healthy, hearty meals for the whole family. We were excited to feature Feel Good Foodie in VIE’s 2021 holiday recipes roundup and catch up with Jawad for this inaugural influencer issue to discuss all things social!

VIE : WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART ABOUT YOUR JOB , AND WHAT IS YOUR LEAST FAVORITE ?

YUMNA JAWAD: My favorite part of my job is the recipe testing (taste testing, of course!) and seeing all my followers make and love the recipes! I’ve always been a foodie, and being able to share my passion and try new foods is the best part. My least favorite part about my job is probably how demanding it can be. I love the flexibility I have as the CEO and founder of this digital food brand, but running a business can be tiring. I’m thankful for a great team and necessary vacations!

VIE : WHAT IS A HIGHLIGHT MOMENT YOU ’ VE EXPERIENCED AS AN INFLUENCER ?

YJ: Probably being on Live with Kelly and Mark! I’m a guest on the show a couple of times a year, and every time I head out to New York, I just can’t believe it’s me they want on the show. My second highlight is just around the corner: my first cookbook is launching in Spring 2024, and I am so thrilled. I know that’s the moment when all of this is truly going to come full circle.

VIE : WHAT WORDS OF WISDOM WOULD YOU GIVE SOMEONE INTERESTED IN BECOMING AN INFLUENCER OR STARTING A BRAND ?

YJ: I would advise them just to start and not worry about every detail being perfect before launching. There is so much to learn in the process of creating a brand or becoming an influencer that you can only learn by doing. Influencers often feel pressured to make enough content for a certain period before starting an account or to perfect their brand logo before creating recipes. But the industry changes so much that I’ve found it best to start, adjust, and build with time.

VIE : WHAT ARE YOU CURRENTLY WATCHING , LISTENING TO , OR READING ?

VIE : BESIDES YOUR PHONE , WHAT ’ S ONE THING YOU CAN ’ T LEAVE HOME WITHOUT ?

YJ:My Apple Watch—I like quickly keeping track of my steps, calendar, and messages on my wrist!

VIE : WHAT ’ S YOUR TOP TRAVEL DESTINATION FOR FALL ?

YJ: We tend to stick around Michigan in the fall because the kids are back at school, and the weather and fall colors are so beautiful here. We love going to farmers markets, apple picking, berry picking, and just enjoying the outdoors.

VIE : WHAT ’ S YOUR FAVORITE FALL TREND ?

YJ: My favorite fall trend is making Starbucks feel-good fall menu copycat recipes, such as my Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew and Pumpkin Spice Latte.

VIE : THANK YOU , YUMNA !

“THIS IS TRULY GOING TO COME FULL CIRCLE.”

YJ: Virgin River Season 5.

Urban Grace

Erika McPherson Powell

@erikampowell | UrbanGrace.com

“I wouldn’t consider myself an influencer; I’m just someone who likes to share pretty things and interact with strangers on the internet,” says Erika McPherson Powell, an interior and textiles designer who, whether she labels herself as an influencer or not, certainly has made an impact via her online channels. Her beautiful designs and personal style resonate with her nearly 42,000 followers on her personal Instagram and over 115,000 on her business pages, @urbangraceinteriors and @erikampowelltextiles.

“Back in the early 2000s, I had a blog,” she continues. “But blogging was a lot of work: editing photos, writing posts, answering questions in the comments section, and coming up with interesting content. It was nearly a second job. I was running a very demanding interior design firm, and I just couldn’t keep up with it.”

With the popularity of Instagram rising in the early 2010s, Powell found it was “a much faster way to document things I was previously blogging about. Instagram was just a quick post of a photo and caption, and boom—done!” She likens the platform to an abbreviated version of a blog, and her existing audience soon migrated to the photo- and video-heavy app along with her, continuing to like and engage with her content more quickly and easily.

We caught up with Powell to discuss more about how she uses her platforms today!

VIE: What is your favorite part about your job, and what is your least favorite?

Erika M. Powell: The design aspects of both businesses, Urban Grace Interiors and my textiles line (Erika M. Powell Textiles), deeply feed my soul. And honestly, the business side of my work used to really stymie my creativity. But I’ve finally—almost twenty years into these gigs—figured out what I can and cannot handle. Delegating accounting, HR, and operations frees me up to do what I do best: be creative. Finding really good, business-minded people to work alongside me has been so helpful.

VIE: What is a highlight moment you’ve had as an influencer?

EMP: Real-life friendships formed from online connections are my highlight. Social media interactions with strangers can be funny, but the friends I’ve made over the years make the whole idea of social media feel sincere and real.

VIE: What words of wisdom would you give someone interested in becoming an influencer or starting a brand?

EMP: Find your voice and stay true to yourself. Create original content; don’t do what everyone else is doing.

Erika Powell, founder and owner

Urban Grace Interiors and Erika M. Powell Textiles

of

Photography by Marla Carter

“I'm just someone who likes to share pretty things and interact with strangers on the internet.”

VIE: What are you currently watching, listening to, or reading?

EMP: I’m reading Four Thousand Weeks by Oliver Burkeman. I read an article he wrote about three-tofour-hour creative blocks that resonated with me, so I decided to dive deeper and read his book.

VIE: Besides your phone, what’s one thing you can’t leave home without?

EMP: Velamints Gum, my Simple Modern water bottle, and Kosas LipFuel in baseline/clear.

VIE: What’s your top travel destination for fall?

EMP: I’m excited about a trip to the North Carolina mountains coming up in October!

VIE: What’s your favorite fall trend?

EMP: I’m not really into trends per se, but I do love health and wellness and have been reading a lot about grounding and intermittent fasting lately. Those are the kinds of “trends” I get into.

VIE: Thank you, Erika!

the friends I’ve made over the years make the whole idea of social media feel sincere and real.

Photo by Kiana Tate Photography

Necklace and body chain by Reshelled Jewelry

Virginia's FIRST LADY

MAKING CHANGE THROUGH ART

By Suzanne Pollak

Photography courtesy of the Executive Mansion

hen the First Lady of Virginia, Suzanne Youngkin, and her husband, Governor Glenn Youngkin, moved into the Executive Mansion in 2022, one of the first things she did was transform its walls.

As one might expect to find in the country’s oldest continuously occupied Executive Mansion, the rooms were lined with paintings of Virginia statesmen and Virginia landscapes set in heavy gold frames. But Mrs. Youngkin saw things differently. She wanted a broader, newer story to be told about the Commonwealth of Virginia through the work of living as well as historic Virginia artists, and she wanted to reopen the

Federal-style landmark, designed in 1813 by prominent architect Alexander Parris, which had been closed to the public since the pandemic.

Mrs. Youngkin asked Judy Boland and Ann Goettman, who sit on the Citizens’ Advisory Council on Furnishing and Interpreting the Executive Mansion (CAC), to realize her vision by creating the Art Experience. The duo was an interesting choice: Neither one is a museum curator. But while Boland’s background is in psychology and Goettman’s is in marketing, both are passionate about art. Although the women were not well acquainted at the time, they found themselves agreeing on which artists and paintings to suggest for the first exhibition, Spirit of Virginia.

Suzanne Youngkin, First Lady of Virginia, in front of August and the Red Glass by Janet Fish

ven though the work of many of the selected artists would not typically be found hanging on the walls of a Governor’s Mansion or a museum, the Art Experience was a huge success. As a result, a second Art Experience,  Do What You Love in Virginia, is now installed on the Mansion’s first floor and features the likes of William Clarke, Margaret Gregg, Sharon Campbell, AB Jackson, and more.

Boland and Goettman reached out to more than a dozen museums from across the state as well as individual artists, inviting them to lend a painting for the year. Without much wall space, they were forced to be judicious, reviewing thumbnail

submissions of pieces museums were willing to loan for a year. Choosing a work of art from a thumbnail often led to a surprise, and when finally seen in person, the paintings were overwhelmingly beautiful.

Using a new system suggested by Alicia Starliper, registrar at the Library of Virginia, Boland and Goettman used templates of the exact size of the paintings to visualize where everything would go. Occasionally, once paintings were hung in their planned spots, the curators needed to reconsider placement. Lighting was often the issue, as the Mansion is lit by chandeliers, not the pin spot museum lighting typically used for art. Other times, it was the position—the art hung too high or too low. In all cases, the two women mostly relied on their intuition: Does the painting feel right?

The goal of the Art Experience is to showcase Virginia, for viewers to feel connected to the state’s history, to feel represented, and to leave with a sense of pride in being a Virginian. The exhibition highlights various genres and mediums, always focused on Virginia artists and themes. It is a living display

The Virginia Executive Mansion in Richmond

Photo by Paul Brady Photography/ Shutterstock

that will evolve as additional works of art become available and different parts of the Virginia story become the focus.

As a tourist, I can report how the exhibit impacted me: It was electrifying. The space somehow feels like both a lived-in house and a house museum— an Executive Mansion built to receive hundreds and a private house comfortable for tea for two. Yet, it is neither a museum nor a traditional home; it is an iconic institution that can change Virginia’s people. The Art Experience makes the first floor come alive, tells a story, creates a feeling, and contemporizes the Executive Mansion. The takeaway message for me is that something unique is going on there.

I was especially struck by a large (six-by-five feet) contemporary tablescape,  August and the Red Glass by Janet Fish, hung on a ballroom wall leading into the dining room. The painting is on loan from the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, where it was a gift from Virginians Sydney and Frances Lewis.

Although I expected to see isolated statesmen in gold frames—and I did—when I saw Fish’s painting, I thought, “Whoa! Something interesting is happening here.” A tablescape painting tells a story about connecting and knitting a community together around a table. Not only do I want to be invited to that table, I want to know who had this vision and view. It was educational and inspiring, precisely what Suzanne Youngkin envisioned and what Judy Boland and Ann Goettman delivered on behalf of their state and the Governor’s Executive Mansion. You should go.

ARTISTS

William Clarke is a self-taught folk artist from Blackstone, Virginia, who narrates his rural African-American heritage of old tobacco farming, country stores, baptisms, funerals, and the daily life of his childhood.

Margaret Gregg, a member of Round the Mountain Artisan Network, created a beautiful quilt that hangs in the ladies’ parlor. She is the artist in residence at The William King Museum in Abingdon, Virginia.

A.B. Jackson, whose eye-catching portrait of Abe Lincoln hangs in the front hall, earned an MFA from Yale University and, in 1967, after teaching ten years at Norfolk State University, joined Old Dominion University as a full-time professor and its first Black faculty member.

A magnificent and striking large painting of a horse and rider by artist Sharon Campbell from Madison, Virginia, graces the wall of the south ballroom.

Queena Stovall, a self-taught folk artist from Lynchburg, combined careful detail with intense color to produce realistic scenes of life in the country. Collectively, her paintings are a documentation of bygone life in rural Virginia.

Suzanne Pollak, a mentor and lecturer in the fields of home, hearth, and hospitality, is the founder and dean of the Charleston Academy of Domestic Pursuits. She is the coauthor of Entertaining for Dummies, The Pat Conroy Cookbook, and The Charleston Academy of Domestic Pursuits: A Handbook of Etiquette with Recipes. Born into a diplomatic family, Pollak was raised in Africa, where her parents hosted multiple parties every week. Her South Carolina homes have been featured in the Wall Street Journal Mansion section and Town & Country magazine. Visit CharlestonAcademy.com or contact her at Suzanne@CharlestonAcademy.com to learn more.

The End of the Line (1960) by Queena Stovall (1887–1980) hangs in the North Ballroom.

The goal of the Art Experience is to showcase Virginia, for viewers to feel connected to the history of the state, to feel represented, and to leave with a sense of pride in being a Virginian.

Petite pause

Artist Shantell Martin has traversed the globe and lived in some of its biggest and most happening cities—London, Tokyo, and New York. Just as each place has evolved over the years to become something unique and exciting, so has her art. Captured in her NYC studio by photographer Roy Rochlin, Shantell rendered a map-like mural across the wall especially for the January/February 2014 issue of VIE. Her signature black line drawings create a journey for the eye that expresses her take on travel and life.

@shantell_martin

VIEJanuary/February 2015 Cover

Photo by Roy Rochlin

This philosophy is all about trying to find your way in life—what you do, what you love, what makes you tick, and what you can share with the world.

—SHANTELL MARTIN

Heritage Dunes, Seagrove Beach, Florida

YOUR VIEW, OUR PASSION.

E. F. San Juan’s renowned wood millwork creations are complemented by the highest quality windows and doors. Our craftsmen work seamlessly with the most trusted providers of impactrated doors and windows, such as Weather Shield®, to create custom homes that masterfully combine security, beauty, and function.

Voyager Voyager

SEE THE WORLD

Kourosh Keynejad, a British-born photographer based in Los Angeles, masterfully leverages the digital canvas of Instagram to showcase the planet’s wonders. An explorer, environmentalist, and artist, his passion has driven him to the world’s most secluded corners. His photographs, rich with storytelling, resonate with the deep connection between humanity and nature. Having traversed over seventy countries, Keynejad specializes in minimal nature photography that captures the dramatic and the subtle. His impactful imagery has found its way from digital feeds to international exhibitions from Miami to Tokyo, offering a fresh perspective on a world observed often but rarely truly seen.

The idyllic Sarakiniko, Milos, Greece Follow Keynejad on his travels at @kourosh_keynejad on Instagram or explore his portfolio at KouroshKStudio.smugmug.com.

Alden Caroline Easter Lopez

Meet Alden Caroline Easter—ACE, for short. She is our Gulf Coast-based palm tree lover, hat curator, and cofounder of JAW Social Media. ACE has grown up along the Emerald Coast of Florida and has made it her mission to share all that the 30-A area has to offer with her followers. Lately, she has been traveling and discovering new sights, restaurants, and places to partake in an Aperol spritz with her husband, Max. However, in her free time, you can find her walking her black Lab squad early in the morning down Scenic Highway 30-A. ACE encompasses the spirit of beach living. We are thrilled to share more about her below!

VIE: How did you start using social media as an influencer?

Alden Caroline Easter: Instagram launched in 2010 when I was starting high school. What began as a fun way to edit photos and share memories with friends quickly blossomed into a creative outlet. At first, I started building a following simply by having fun posting with friends and being an early adopter of the platform. Eventually, I carved out my niche with beach content and positive energy. I worked at Ophelia Swimwear throughout high school (an experience I am eternally grateful for), and my bikini obsession really helped me grow because, while I worked there, owner Tori Pickren Von Hoene gave me so many opportunities to get involved and take lots of photos! My brother, Will Easter, is a photographer and has helped me since the beginning by taking my photos. He is always up for hopping on a YOLO Board and using the GoPro.

VIE: What is your favorite part about your job, and what is your least favorite?

ACE: Like many others, influencing is not my only income source. I cofounded a social media firm, JAW Social Media, with my sister. This takes up most of my work day. With that said, my favorite part of being an influencer is the positive community that I’ve tried to build around myself. There’s nothing quite like the feeling you get when someone reaches out to say that something you’ve posted or created has lifted their spirits, even if just a little. Being inspired by people I admire and trying to do the same for those around me are big parts of why I keep doing this.

The other side of that coin is that (obviously) not every corner of the internet carries such lofty ideals. The fear of being judged is constantly looming, and seeing comments and posts from accounts whose sole purpose seems to be slamming others for being themselves is a huge negative for me with this space. For the most part, though, I try to let that roll off my back and focus on the people who are there to elevate and build each other up!

VIE: What is a highlight moment you’ve had as an influencer?

ACE: I’ve been blessed enough to work with small and local businesses and make an impact on them. I’ve had a few experiences where the feedback from a company I worked with is that I helped grow their business because of the attention I helped bring them through my platform. I won’t ever take credit for their success, but to be able to help in that way is always rewarding.

“What started as a fun way to edit photos and share memories with friends quickly blossomed into a creative outlet.”

VIE: What words of wisdom would you give someone interested in becoming an influencer or starting a brand?

ACE: I’d probably grab them, shake them, and say, “Just start!” Often, the most difficult part of any new venture is getting it off the ground, especially when it involves really putting yourself out there. If you’re reading this and have been meticulously weighing the pros and cons or rolling an idea around in your head for months, let this be the sign to start now!

VIE: What are you currently watching, listening to, or reading?

ACE: My husband and I are huge movie fans. We are the crazy people with the monthly AMC memberships. So we are usually watching whatever is out in the theater at the moment. I always gravitate toward movies more than series. I am a big re-watcher, and Mamma Mia!, Blue Crush, and The Holiday are on repeat a little too often.

VIE: Besides your phone, what’s one thing you can’t leave home without?

ACE: I always have sunglasses—I am obsessed with sunnies and usually have three pairs within arm’s reach at all times. Gotta protect my eyes from all my beach days and walks! I also never go without my giant Hydro Flask. Stay hydrated, y’all!

VIE: What’s your top travel destination for fall?

ACE: I have such a love for traveling, and my bucket list is very long. I would say my number one destination for fall would be Peru. That has been high on my list for a while. For a place I am soon going and is best to visit in the fall: Oxford, Mississippi, the home of my college alma mater. I always love going when the leaves change and the air is crisp! Because I live in Florida, I love a mini escape to wherever trees change in the fall.

VIE: What’s your favorite fall trend?

ACE: Oooh, there are so many! I would go with the classic styles and neutrals that are such a focal point right now. I am also very into the current clog trend and have my eye on a few pairs.

VIE: Thank you, Alden!

“If you’re reading this and have been meticulously weighing the pros and cons or rolling an idea around in your head for months, let this be the sign to start now!”

ARTIST and INTERIOR DESIGNER MARISOL GULLO, CREATIVE DIRECTOR/ OWNER of NOT TOO

WORKED with OWNER/VISIONARY DAVE KING of SOWAL HOUSE in ROSEMARY BEACH, FLORIDA, to CREATE a UNIQUE and MEMORABLE EVENT and CREATIVE VENUE for ARTISTS, PERFORMERS, PODCAST RECORDINGS, and MUCH MORE to THRIVE.

"IT WAS MY PLEASURE TO WORK ON DAVE'S VISION AND BRING LIFE TO A MUCH-NEEDED CREATIVE SPACE IN OUR COMMUNITY."

–

Photo by Modernmade Photography

Near Far & Exploring

MCKENNA MEARS

et ready for friendships, travel, fashion, and a lot of sunshine when you explore this influencer’s pages. Meet McKenna Mears, a lifestyle influencer based along Scenic Highway 30-A in Florida who loves to take you around the world with her, from impromptu beach picnics or biking in the Ozarks to helicopter tours above the Gulf Coast or boating around Spain. Her life is full of color, and she is always up for a new adventure. Follow along below as she shares more with us about how she got started in the wild world of social media and what’s kept her going.

VIE: How did you start using social media as an influencer?

McKenna Mears: My journey as a social media influencer started when a single TikTok video featuring my friends enjoying a beach picnic went viral. Until then, I had always seen social media as a way to connect with friends. It then hit me that my beachy adventures were not only loads of fun but also incredibly shareable. It was a playful way to document my lifestyle, and it felt natural to keep doing it.

VIE: What is your favorite part about your job, and what is your least favorite?

MM: Easily my favorite part about being on social media is the friendships I’ve created, like the close-knit group I recently traveled to Spain with, where we had a blast creating content. It’s given me countless career opportunities and a creative outlet.

It then hit me that my beachy adventures were not only loads of fun but also incredibly shareable. It was a playful way to document my lifestyle, and it felt natural to keep doing it.

on the flip side, my least favorite aspect is the amount of time I spend on my phone. The digital world offers incredible rewards, but finding the right balance between online and offline life can be challenging.

VIE: What is a highlight moment you’ve experienced as an influencer?

MM: A definite highlight as an influencer was attending New York Fashion Week events with my friends. It was a glamorous whirlwind of fashion, creativity, and unforgettable memories.

VIE: What words of wisdom would you give someone interested in becoming an influencer or starting a brand?

MM: My advice would be simple: Start! Take that leap of faith. I firmly believe in the “fake it ’til you make it” approach, and that’s how I began. I answered questions that no one really asked, shared content that may not have seemed necessary at the time, and explored my passions fearlessly. It can be intimidating, no doubt, but it’s incredibly rewarding. The beauty of this journey is that it’s on your terms, and if it’s a way to shine a light in the world, why hold back?

VIE: What are you currently watching, listening to, or reading?

MM: I recently started reading The Silent Patient, and I must say, I love thriller books because they’re so gripping. I often find myself saying, “Just one more page.” Before I know it, I’ve finished the book in one or two sittings. The suspense and intrigue just keep me hooked!

VIE: Besides your phone, what’s one thing you can’t leave home without?

MM: A bathing suit, for sure! I keep one in my car just in case the beach beckons unexpectedly. You never know when you might want to take a spontaneous dip.

VIE: What’s your top travel destination for fall?

MM: I absolutely love the anticipation of an upcoming trip, mainly because fall means chilly weather where I live. As much as I’d love a cozy cabin in a fall wonderland, I confess that I’m a beach girl at heart. I have a trip booked to Mexico next month, and I couldn’t be more excited about the sunshine, cuisine, and culture!

VIE: What is your favorite fall trend?

MM: My favorite fall trend has to be what I’ve seen dubbed as “flat shoe fall” on TikTok. I’ve never been much of a heel girl, so I’m loving the idea of comfortable yet trendy footwear.

It can be intimidating, no doubt, but it’s incredibly rewarding. The beauty of this journey is that it’s on your terms, and if it’s a way to shine a light in the world, why hold back?

—robert davis Seaside Founder/Visionary

Photo by Dave Warren

THE NEW URBANISM TOWN THAT BIRTHED A MOVEMENT

BY LISA MARIE BURWELL

Photo by Chandler Williams, Modus Photography

A mecca for thought leaders inspiring livable communities, the town of Seaside, located along the pristine Gulf of Mexico in Northwest Florida, is considered the birthplace of the New Urbanism movement that began over forty years ago. Town founders and visionaries Robert and Daryl Davis teamed with town planners Andrés Duany and his wife, Elizabeth Plater-Zyberk, founders of DPZ CoDesign, to create a truly significant place using nineteenthcentury urban planning. The result was so spectacular that many have sought to replicate it around the globe.

obert Davis has been the town crier for cities and villages the world over since envisioning his town when he was a small child. His first inklings of it came while building sandcastles with his grandfather on the beaches in and around what would later become Seaside. A poignant note is that it was his grandfather from whom he inherited the nearly eighty acres now known as one of the outstanding achievements in architecture and urban planning. Seaside and its founders are highly decorated with numerous awards and widely recognized for their contributions, with one of Robert’s peak experiences being the coveted Rome Prize awarded by the American Academy in Rome for his contributions to town-planning and place-making and birthing the New Urbanism movement. While immersed in his sabbatical there, he studied how streets and squares felt like outdoor open rooms fostering social gatherings.

Another crown jewel of New Urbanism is the quaint village of Poundbury on the outskirts of Dorchester in the county of Dorset, England, founded by King Charles III when he was Prince of Wales. His influential book A Vision of Britain includes a section on Seaside, and his interest led him to call a meeting with Robert Davis and Andrés Duany shortly before breaking ground on his UK project in 1993. Today, Poundbury’s design influence in Britain compares to that of Seaside in the US. “It is fun to think that little Seaside, then only a backwoods infant, could give the regal Poundbury a nudge forward,” beamed Duany.

The ascension of King Charles III to the throne meant a new owner for Poundbury in Dorset. The new Duke of Cornwall, Prince William of Wales, took on the role from His Majesty last year and has always been very passionate about the project and a developer himself. The idea behind Poundbury is to enable people to live more sustainable lifestyles. It is built on land owned by the Duchy of Cornwall, the estate set up in the fourteenth century to provide the heir to the throne with an income independent from the Sovereign.

In October, a small group from the Seaside Institute will attend the 2023 International Making Cities Livable (IMCL) Conference in Poundbury to study “The Ecology of Place.” Learn more about this conference at www.IMCL.online.

Founder Robert S. Davis with his grandfather, J. S. Smolian, on the beach that would later become Seaside

ow do you tell a story spanning nearly a lifetime that warrants a thesis rather than an article? The beginning is an excellent place to start, echoing how organic and constant this walk has been for the town founders, and Robert Davis shares his thoughts in the sidebar of this piece. This article celebrates not only the founding of The Seaside Institute thirty years ago but also its visions for the future, which are many. The nonprofit organization perpetuates three core tenets as it views these communities as living laboratories for improving sustainability, connectivity, and adaptability.

The Seaside Institute is having a resurgence this year, with Jeff Zehnder at the helm as chairman of the board of governors. His pedigree and knowledge of Walton County are unmatched, as his advertising agency, Zehnder Communications, has been the agency of record for the Walton County Tourist Development Council since 2012. As a champion for responsible growth, he has a leadership acumen best described as being a servant leader. He has thrust the Seaside Institute into a dynamic and engaging season, growing the organization with new initiatives and symposia. His company has graciously donated pro bono marketing and advertising services to the mission of inspiring livable communities, including membership drive brochures and videos and assisting with publicity. He also spearheaded a partnership with the Water Institute in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, focusing on sustainability and resiliency. As a long-standing Seaside Institute board member, he enthusiastically took the position of chairman when the position was unexpectedly open midyear. Jeff has led a gallant effort and aggressive agenda to grow the Institute so ideas and change can occur at home and abroad.

Sustainability & Resiliency

For many years in the past, the Seaside Institute offered study-abroad symposiums under the auspices of The Seaside Pienza Institute for town and land stewardship. This program has been revived under Jeff’s reign, with a trip to Copenhagen planned for the fall of 2024 as part of the Pienza Travel Abroad Program. Participants will study the renaissance of the cycling culture in what is considered the “bicycle capital of the world.” Board member Micah Davis is curating the trip with Seaside Institute’s executive director, Christy Milliken. Micah is the son of Robert and Daryl, and it’s thrilling to see the next generation carrying on their legacy. He describes his title in Seaside as “developer in training” and has watched and been part of this his entire life.

In a recent board meeting, toward the end of a robust dialog about the mission of the travel programs, Robert socratically said, “We’re not looking for an ideal city but a city of ideas.”

“Since great minds think alike, and we’re learning from both the success and failures of how other cities have combated the automobile sprawl, we are excited to observe and return to our communities with new information and ideas,” adds Jeff.

As vice chair of the Seaside Institute this year, I have watched Jeff lead these initiatives and meetings with professionalism and an unwavering ability to get things done with sophistication and elegance. It’s impressive to watch things evolve quickly and stimulating to be involved with such a dynamic group of thinkers and change makers. When we decided to create an issue of VIE focusing on the phenomenon of influencers in our culture today, it was hard not to get caught up in only the influencers on social marketing platforms like Instagram and TikTok, as that is not the only place to find them and never has been. Influencers have existed throughout history, and Seaside’s founders are as influential as ever.

Learning from both the success and failures of how other cities have combatted the automobile sprawl, we are excited to learn and return with new information and ideas to bring back to our communities.

Seaside’s Central Square during a Saturday Farmers Market

Photo by Jack Gardner

Opposite, top to bottom: Seaside Institute Executive Director Christy Milliken

Seaside Institute 2023 Chairman Jeff Zehnder

Photos by Hunter Burgtorf Cyclists in Copenhagen, Denmark, where the Institute will travel in 2024

Photo by Bucchi Francesco/Shutterstock

Still, it is essential to utilize the channels available to garner growth and traction, and executive director Christy Milliken is filling that gap and then some as she masters social marketing for the Institute. She celebrates her first anniversary today as I put the finishing touches on this article, and this powerhouse of connectivity, networking, and energy is a joy to watch. She was the right person to fill this position at the right time, working daily to build up programs, create new ones, and enhance the Institute’s foundation thirty years after it was poured. Christy is also the host of The Seaside Institute podcast, recorded at SOWAL House studio in Rosemary Beach, Florida, which also happens to be a New Urbanism community planned by DPZ. SOWAL House owner and founder Dave King is a new Seaside Institute board member who has been instrumental in spreading the good news by donating his services.

We are gearing up for the annual Seaside Prize Weekend, February 2–4, 2024, as we honor individuals and organizations whose innovations help reimagine how modern communities are built and shape our lives. Victor Dover and Joe Kohl of Dover, Kohl & Partners Town Planning (DoverKohl.com) are the new Seaside Prize recipients, and we are thrilled to recognize their contributions. E. F. San Juan (EFSanJuan.com), a third-generation custom moulding, millwork, and cabinetry firm located in nearby Youngstown, Florida, is a presenting sponsor of the Seaside Prize Weekend this year. Their work has transformed many Seaside homes, and company founder Ed San Juan will create custom wooden boxes for the recipients’ commemorative keys. We urge other like-minded businesses to join the weekend as sponsors or participants to celebrate Seaside and the Institute’s growing programs. I would also highly recommend that people join this organization as a member and become part of an exhilarating movement with great things to come.

There are many more initiatives to discuss, but I will close with this one as it is near and dear to Robert’s heart: the Aging with Grace program. The ethos is to create “naturally occurring retirement communities” along Scenic Highway 30-A that foster wellness-oriented health care, support, and services among one another. If we could all live life with a penchant for enjoying it as Robert does, the world would be a better place. He started racing cars fifteen years ago and is still doing so at eighty years of age. This summer, he participated in the Mille Miglia – A Thousand Roman Miles race in Rome with his son Micah while Daryl cheered them on. He is the perfect person to champion this Aging with Grace effort. Cheers to a long life!

This is just a glimpse into what is happening at the Seaside Institute, and closing with this description from Daryl Davis seems succinctly appropriate: “The Seaside Institute honors the intellectual pursuit of what is a community.”

Photo

MUSINGS FROM THE ROBERT S. DAVIS ARCHIVES

t he G enisis o F t he s e A side i nstitute

T HE G ENESIS OF T HE S EASIDE I NSTITUTE

The movement that became the New Urbanism had its beginnings in Seaside, in David Dowler’s living room, with a handful of people who gathered to share their progress in excavating the ideas and techniques of traditional town building from the dustbin of history. They had been buried under an incredible pile of what must have seemed like good ideas about a utopian paradise that required leveling the historical city and rejecting five millennia of accumulated wisdom about human settlements.

The Seaside Institute organized this meeting and a series of gatherings, at first annually on Columbus Day; they were called “A Rediscovery of America.”

But these gatherings also included Europeans and Asians, as suburban sprawl and disrupted cities were a global problem. And they became more frequent as more designers and developers came to Seaside to figure out what we were doing and how this improbable experiment in a remote location was successful.

When the Congress for the New Urbanism was founded, the Seaside Institute served as its educational arm, producing numerous programs that helped practitioners learn from leaders of the movement and each other about what was working and what was not.

Now, the movement has matured, and there are numerous towns and cities where the principles outlined in the Charter of the New Urbanism are being put into practice. The former Mayor of Louisville, Greg Fischer, gave an eloquent speech in 2017 about the Compassionate City, his term for a place that values the human potential of all of its inhabitants.

I was also incredibly moved by the recognition recently given to Seaside by the Congress for the New Urbanism. Todd Zimmerman—who was on the jury and who was also one of the many people who led Seaside Institute programs and helped lead this movement to make our towns and cities better places to live for all of their inhabitants—was particularly eloquent in describing Seaside’s place in the movement: “Those of us who witnessed over decades the evolution of Seaside and the Lyceum were privileged to recognize and absorb the elegance, flexibility, and efficiency of the New Urbanism’s principles—those same principles that we have seen transform, revive, and enhance urban neighborhoods both here and abroad.”

Right: Robert and Micah Davis by the Seaside Post Office

Photo by Chandler Williams/Modus Photography

Below: Robert and Daryl Davis

Photo by Marla Carter

Below: Robert Davis racing in the Mille Miglia – A Thousand Roman Miles race in Rome

“This is a real old-fashioned small town, built from scratch since 1981. Developer Robert Davis and planners Andrés Duany and Elizabeth Plater-Zyberk have laid down simple, thoughtful rules derived from epicenters of charm such as Charleston, South Carolina, and Savannah, Georgia, with their narrow streets, porches, alleys, wood siding, pitched roofs, and absence of picture windows. On this master plan, they let individual owners (148 so far) execute their own versions of the Seaside housing code with personal architects. The heterogeneity is real; the harmony is deep. Seaside could be the most astounding design achievement of its era and, one might hope, the most influential.”

TIME magazine’s “Best of the Decade: Design,” 1990

The Seaside Institute Board of Governors 2023

Robert Davis – Founder

Daryl Davis – Founder

Jeff Zehnder – Chairman

Lisa Burwell – Vice Chair

Larry Davis – Treasurer

Christy Milliken – Executive Director

Micah Davis – Founder/Seaside

Community Development

Roger Hall – Aging with Grace Program

Mayor James “Jim” Brainard

Elizabeth Case

Ann B. Daigle

Doris Goldstein

Reynolds Henderson

Dave King

Scott Merrill

Mike Ragsdale

John Robert Smith

Casey Roloff

Claire Morris-Williams

He Was Always There

A JOURNEY OF FAITH AND OBEDIENCE

INTERVIEW BY JORDAN STAGGS

PHOTOS BY IMAGES OF GRACE PHOTOGRAPHY

misty parenzan

@MISTYPARENZAN | HEWASALWAYSTHERE.COM

These are the words of Christian author and speaker Misty Parenzan, whose debut book, He Was Always There, chronicles her life as a child in the fostercare system, an addict, a wife, a mother of nine, and a believer. The heartfelt memoir, which she was first called to write in 2008 at a women’s conference at church, details “Misty’s journey through trauma, addiction, and abuse and how, against all odds, she was redeemed by God’s grace and restored by his love. We’ve been called to a life of freedom yet are often held back by the pain of our past. Misty has had a lot of past to overcome, from rape and prostitution to a decade of addiction, losing a child, and much more. The healing journey isn’t always easy, but it is worth it.”

Now, with dozens of five-star reviews on Amazon and praise from readers worldwide, Parenzan has set her sights on being a speaker and devotional leader, fulfilling her God-given call to help others who are struggling. We are thrilled to have Parenzan on an upcoming episode of VIE Speaks: Conversations with Heart & Soul podcast hosted by Lisa Marie Burwell, so stay tuned!

We also caught up with the author to talk a little more about her book and her inspirational journey:

VIE : WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO WRITE A BOOK ABOUT YOUR LIFE, ADDICTION, AND JOURNEY OF FAITH?

MISTY PARENZAN: It goes back to that women’s conference at church in 2008. The speaker, Germaine Copeland, called me out during one of the sessions and said my story would be in a book one day. I remember thinking she obviously didn’t hear God right because writing was never my thing. I am more of a math and logic girl. From then on, I was often asked if I ever thought of writing a book

or was told I needed to. I finally told Him if he wanted me to write a book, he’d have to send me a ghostwriter to tell all my stories to. That didn’t happen until I was almost done with my project. I never planned on writing this book, but God showed up. I thought it would be more of a legacy for my children, but God has done so much more.

VIE: WHAT WAS THE MOST CHALLENGING PART OF TELLING THIS STORY? DID YOU EVER CONSIDER GIVING UP ON THE BOOK?

MP : Once I finally accepted that God was telling me to write my story, the hardest part was finding time. It took me nine months to write three chapters. By September of that year, I was very discouraged. I was ready to give up. But I had a mentor I didn’t want to let down, so one Friday, I asked my husband to pray that I would hear God clearly about this book. I was fine to lay it down for another seven years. So he prayed, and that Sunday, a woman approached me and told me that morning God told her to tell me to “get on it,” and she said, “I think it’s about you writing a book.” So that day, I booked a condo in Panama City Beach for four days to write, and God showed up. It wasn’t until my drive home when I shared with a friend that I had just written forty thousand words, and she said, “I can’t wait to read it.” That was the moment my stomach dropped, and I realized people would read all that I wrote.

VIE: HOW HAS YOUR LIFE CHANGED SINCE YOU SHARED YOUR BOOK WITH THE WORLD?

MP: For the most part, it is me that has changed. Confidence has always been an inward struggle for me. I have grown tremendously since April. My family is more united because of all the times we had to lock arms as the enemy banged on the doors of our hearts.

“I want to encourage people to step out. Stop hiding. Just go for it. Whatever it is, just do it.”

VIE: WHAT WORDS OF WISDOM WOULD YOU GIVE SOMEONE INTERESTED IN WRITING A MEMOIR, ESPECIALLY INCLUDING DIFFICULT TOPICS?

MP: First of all, just start. Imagine you are sitting with a friend, telling them your stories. Don’t think about what others will think. Then you need a plan. My original plan stank. It took me nine months to write three chapters and only four days to write the other ten. The plan matters! Lastly, put on your armor because the devil doesn’t want people sharing struggles he knows will change their lives. We had one thing after another happen during this whole process, from my health falling and my kids walking through major issues to lots of family drama. Once we saw it for what it was, we were able to overcome it. We are still recovering.

VIE: WHAT FEEDBACK HAVE YOU GOTTEN FROM FRIENDS, FAMILY, AND THE CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY?

MP: Nothing I ever expected! I was prepared to fail. I was ready for all the negative comments and reviews. I tiptoed out the gate, bracing myself for the backlash that was sure to come, but the exact opposite happened. I have thirtytwo five-star reviews on Amazon, and I receive messages from people—friends and strangers—daily with the most encouraging words. I’ve only read one book that moved me so much I wanted to reach out to the author, so with every message I get, my heart is touched deeply. I know God is up to something, and I am excited He decided to use me.

VIE: HOW DO YOU BROACH SUCH DIFFICULT TOPICS WITH YOUR KIDS, IF AT ALL?

MP: We are very open with our kids. I feel like my generation was so different. Everything was hush-hush or inappropriate, but all that did was leave me to figure things out for myself, which wasn’t great. At first, I was hesitant about my kids reading my book, but it has given them a newfound respect and compassion for me. We want our kids to be prepared for life’s good, bad, and ugly.

VIE: DO YOU HAVE PLANS TO WRITE ANOTHER BOOK?

MP: I never thought I would do it again, but God always has a way of changing my plans. We have a few things on the horizon. My husband and I are working on things the Lord has given us a vision for. We also each have a devotional on the table, his being a thirty-day one and mine ninety days. In our lives, time management is a challenge for sure.

Above: Author/speaker Misty Parenzan with friends and supporters at a book release event for her debut memoir, He Was Always There

Right: Misty with her husband, Matt, who is also a devotional leader at their church

VIE: WHAT INSPIRES YOU MOST?

MP: Transformation! I love to see God move. Whether someone loses fifty pounds, changes their hairstyle, betters their marriage, or decides to follow Jesus, I love to encourage them on their journey. I am passionate about showing people God is real and it is worth it to follow Him and not just talk about Him. Life can be better. The bigger the risk, the bigger the reward.

VIE: WHAT ARE YOU CURRENTLY WATCHING, LISTENING TO, OR READING?

MP: I always have parenting, marriage, and selfhelp books cycling through my Audible. Currently, those books are Parenting: Getting It Right by Andy and Sandra Stanley, Marriage on the Rock by Jimmy Evans, and Don’t Give the Enemy a Seat at Your Table by Louie Giglio. I listen to various podcasts throughout the week, ranging from sermons to homeschool moms and more. As for what I am watching, I watch The Chosen weekly with my family, and then we will have a family movie night. Other than that, I watch my kids grow as time flies.

VIE : THANK YOU, MISTY! WE CAN’T WAIT TO HAVE YOU ON VIE SPEAKS !

Visit

I am passionate about showing people God is real and it is worth it to follow Him and not just talk about Him.

Sea Beauty

INFLUENCE AND IRIDESCENCE

In this issue, we’re deep into influencer culture, where fashion is central. In this month’s C’est La VIE, elevate your morning with workout sets that prioritize both form and function. Discover beauty products that enhance and empower. Stay ahead with emerging fashion brands defining today’s trends, and complement your look with handpicked accessories. Today’s style isn’t just for the screen—it’s a statement. Live it, own it, share it.

Lara Long Pink Dress

As seen on Helen Owen (@helenowen) DelfiCollective.com – $249

Old School 3

River - Coco/Khaki

As seen on Josefine Haaning Jensen (@josefinehj)

VehlaEyeWear.com– $200

Bali Breeze 4

Wild Side 2

Kaia Jaguar Triangle Bikini Top, Milla Jaguar Tie Side Bikini Bottoms

As seen on Kendall Jenner (@kendalljenner)

SommerSwim.com – $89 and $89

Bali H’ai Extrait de Parfum, 100ml Maisondelasie.sg – $312

Local Love 6

Loco30a Out Of Office

Embroidered Hat in Khaki Loco30a.com –$34

Sneakin' 7

NITRO

Glow Guard 5

Glowscreen SPF 40 SuperGoop.com – $38

PUMA x LEMLEM

Luxe Training Shoes Women

Us.Puma.com – $130

Ready, Set, Slay 8

Edge Top - Ribbed

As seen on Isabella Katherine Duffy (@isaduffyy)

IKDActive.com – $65

Classy Lady 9

Sculpted Halter Top in Ivory Tae-Park.com – $695

Rosy Gem 10

Mini Crystal Bag

As seen on Emma Chamberlain (@emmachamberlain)

SusanAlexandra.com – $338

Vanity Flair 11

Mustique Square Tray

JonathanAdler.com – $475

Rainbow Time 12

La Californienne Daybreak 24mm

Gold-Plated Striped Leather Watch

Net-A-Porter.com – $1680

Pillow Lips 13

The PLASMA Lip Compound

As seen on Vanessa Hong (@vanessahong)

UBeauty.com – $68

Set It Up

14

Tribe Kelley SeamlessLuxe Bra and Shorts in Electric Pink

As seen on Brittney Kelley (@brittneykelley)

TribeKelley.com – $80–$90

For more information and to listen to Lex Fridman’s podcasts, visit LexFridman.com and follow @lexfridman. You can also find his podcasts on all major podcast platforms.

Le monde

GOES ROUND AND ROUND

Lex Fridman brings a unique charisma to the podcasting realm—nuanced, unpretentious, and profoundly genuine. Born in Chkalovsk, Tajikistan, and the son of a plasma physicist, complexity is in his DNA. He initiated his podcast journey in 2018 under the title Artificial Intelligence Podcast as part of his coursework at MIT. However, his insatiable curiosity could not be confined to a single topic, leading to a rebrand as The Lex Fridman Podcast . Today, his name is synonymous not only with AI but also with a profound intellect, blended with a sincere understanding of human nature and a notably calming voice that enriches his dialogues with insightful depth. His guest list features tech icons like Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg alongside intellectual powerhouses such as neuroscientist Sam Harris and renowned psychologist Jordan Peterson. Their conversations span topics from the frontiers of AI, its ethical quandaries, and human consciousness to explorations of history, power dynamics, and our place in the vast cosmos. Podcasts have democratized access to highlevel knowledge, and Fridman’s genuine curiosity and captivating guests set him apart, ensuring listeners depart with fresh perspectives. Beyond the podcast, his contributions to AI research at MIT underscore his pivotal role in bridging academia, technology, and a deeper understanding of the human condition.

Photo by Jamie Vernon (Young Jamie), courtesy of Lex Fridman

By Wendy Anderson

| Photography courtesy of the Newell family

THE NEWELL BOYS DIDN’T ALWAYS ASPIRE TO PLAY IN THE NBA.

Just six years ago, Jaden, then in eighth grade, and Asa, who was in sixth grade, tried out for the boys’ basketball team at Destin Middle School. Although the boys come from an athletic family, it was a big step—not only were they used to playing soccer and unfamiliar with basketball, but they were also homeschooled.

The boys were ecstatic to make the team, but neither they nor their parents realized how impactful the decision to try out would become. Since that time, both boys have grown tremendously in the sport, traveled to tournaments abroad, had their games broadcast on ESPN, gained attention on social media, and are working hard to achieve their goals of playing professionally.

Now nineteen years old and six-foot-nine, Jaden Newell is a sophomore at the University of Georgia and a member of the Bulldogs basketball team. Asa Newell, who is now seventeen, six-foot-ten, and in his senior year at Montverde Academy in Orlando, has been ranked as high as number one in the nation at his position, is being heavily recruited by colleges, has an impressive NIL valuation, and is already being watched by NBA scouts.

So, how did their lives change so much in just a handful of years? And how can their story help other kids achieve their dreams?

Right: Asa Newell with his gold medal from Team USA’s win at the 2022 FIBA U17 World Cup in Spain.

Photo courtesy of FIBA.basketball

Parents Justin Newell and Carmen Mitchell point out that no great achievements come without prayer, hard work, dedication, and sacrifice. Natural talent, the proper physique, a great social media campaign, and connections will only matter if the young person does the necessary work. They also credit the boys’ faith in God for giving them character-building principles and a greater purpose behind all they do—they seek to use their platforms to be a positive influence on others, not just achieve fame or wealth.

Jaden’s path has involved overcoming some setbacks, including an injury in his senior year of high school and the fact that the pandemic shut down playing opportunities. Nevertheless, he takes adversity in stride as it helps to strengthen him. “I’ve always been a visionary,” he explains. “When I was younger, I wanted to play professional soccer. Now, I want to play professional basketball. Having big goals inspires me to work hard.”

Asa concurs about the effort required. “There is a lot of work that goes into being where I’m at,” he says. “Sometimes I start at 5:00 a.m. I also put in a lot of late nights.” It’s not just basketball—mom Carmen proudly relates that Asa is also achieving the highest academic honors as a dual enrollment student.

PEOPLE WHO CARE

Second, the family credits their network—the in-person kind. Since Carmen played soccer and Justin is a personal trainer who owned CrossFit gyms, naturally, they encouraged their kids in athletics. But it took individuals around them to draw their attention to the boys’ potential in basketball and direct them to the means to nurture that potential.

It might seem that the family’s move from their hometown of Athens, Georgia, to the small town of Destin in the Florida Panhandle would have limited the boys’ opportunities, especially because they were homeschooled for most of their education. However, Carmen and Justin praise the many people in their adopted hometown and the surrounding area who cared enough to impart their skills and knowledge to help their kids.

MONTVERDE ACADEMY, ONE OF THE TOP SPORTS RECRUITING SCHOOLS IN THE NATION ... BOASTS SIXTEEN NBA PLAYERS AS ALUMS.

When a member of the Newells’ gym heard the boys wanted to try out for the middle school team, he volunteered his time to teach them technique. The middle school girls’ basketball coach saw their potential and advised the Newells to get the boys involved in AAU (Amateur Athletic Union) basketball—something they’d never heard of. This led to three years of long drives from Destin to Orlando and back each weekend several months per year for practices and games. The sacrifice paid off by connecting the boys to Darryl Hardin and Lee Loper, trainers who have been guiding forces. Asa describes these mentors’ vital role in his success: “With all the attention on social media, I don’t need to hear that I’m the greatest. I need ‘no people’ who will tell me what I need to keep working on.”

Through AAU, the family heard about Montverde Academy, one of the top sports recruiting schools in the nation, which boasts sixteen NBA players as alums. Leaving the small town where they had strong friendships and a business was not an easy decision, but they made the sacrifice to relocate so that Asa could play on such an elite team. In terms of his progress, it has definitely paid off. The family that used to spend hours traveling to Orlando on weekends is spending hours traveling from Orlando to various college campuses where Asa is being recruited.

Jaden Newell during his freshman season with the University of Georgia Bulldogs

BECOMING AN INFLUENCER

Recruitment trips are not without perks. The family has been given VIP tickets to football games at ranked schools and allowed special access, and at most colleges, a photo shoot is set for Asa in the team’s uniform. These images are uploaded to the universities’ social media accounts.

So far, Asa has received offers from eighteen Division I schools, including Alabama, Auburn, Florida, Florida State, Gonzaga, Kansas, and Indiana. The attention can be intense, with coaches calling at all hours. “It feels good that my hard work has paid off,” Asa says. “But it’s important to keep the right focus, as basketball is a very mental sport. Also, the attention means that younger kids at my school look up to me, so it’s important to keep a clean image so that their faith is justified.”

Monitoring “clicks” and “likes” is as essential to modern-day marketing as points and rebounds are to players. Online publicity has become the third important

factor in sports success. The number of followers an athlete has on his or her feeds is important—a number that usually starts as a function of the player’s success but can develop into a symbiotic relationship with it. Success on the court leads to a player attracting attention, which may be increased by charisma or other factors that inspire people to watch him play. In turn, receiving more attention can encourage players to work harder to meet expectations.

In today’s world, the reach of social media can be astounding. When Asa played for Team USA in Hungary and Spain, he was surprised to see signs in the crowd with his name on them. He discovered he had attracted a following in China, where videos of him playing had millions of views, and someone had created an Asa Newell fan club account. Asa’s Instagram followers rose from 5,000 to 42,000 in less than one year.

Asa Newell playing for FIBA Team USA

Right: The Newell family: Carmen, Jaden, Justin, Zoë, and Asa

Sports analysts give each potential recruit an NIL (name, image, and likeness) score with potential dollar figures attached. Asa has recently been ranked first in Florida for the class of 2024 with an estimated NIL value of $444,000 (the estimate is for his potential to earn in college, as high school players are not allowed to earn in the state of Florida). This may mean being given a product and asked to post about it on social media feeds or being invited to an event and asked to link to it. Many players view this as their side job in addition to athletics and studies.

The youngest Newell, Zoë, has begun building her own social media profile. Now thirteen, she is playing basketball, aiming for a college scholarship, and piggybacking on her brothers’ social media accounts—and vice versa, as Zoë currently has 12,000 followers on TikTok compared to Asa’s 8,000. Regarding Zoë’s years of dancing with the Northwest Florida Ballet and competing with Studio Fusion Dance Company, Carmen relates, “That training and performance experience taught her to carry herself with poise and gave her the confidence to have a platform. Many coaches and instructors who faithfully did their jobs, even though they may have felt like they were reaching a limited number of people, continue to make an impact through what they have poured into our children.”

As far as what the Newells recommend for other parents to help their kids achieve their dreams—because, let’s face it, not everyone is six-foot-nine—in the age of social media, Justin offers: “Encouragement is vital. Anyone can, and often will,

say anything about your kids, especially online. Parents play a key role in giving kids the ability to withstand whatever comes at them.” He adds, “Monitor your kids’ social media posts. Help them know what to include but also what not to include.” Finally, “Make sure they are surrounded by a strong support system and pray that God leads them on their own unique paths.”

To track Asa Newell’s progress and learn what college he commits to, follow him on Instagram @asanewell. To follow Jaden Newell at UGA, find him on Instagram @jadennewell. For more information on AAU, go to 1FamilyHoops.com.

ASA HAS RECENTLY BEEN RANKED FIRST IN FLORIDA FOR THE CLASS OF 2024

“This high-stakes thriller offers a great balance between romance, mystery, and edge-of-your-seat action. It’s the perfect beach read!”

FAILING AT WINNINGADULTING, AT COMEDY

@DALTONSMILEY | DALTONSMILEY.COM

omedians have been a crucial part of the backbone of entertainment since the days of old. Thanks to today’s social media platforms and online channels, finding and connecting with your favorite funny people is easier than ever. But what does it take to “make it” as a comedy influencer? We caught up with Dalton Smiley, a Louisianabased content creator, to find out!

“I’ve always been active on social media in different capacities but ultimately started taking it seriously in 2019 after I realized it was a passion of mine,”

VIE: WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART ABOUT YOUR JOB, AND WHAT IS YOUR LEAST FAVORITE?

Dalton Smiley: I love the doors this job has opened and the incredible people I’ve met. This job has allowed me to meet (and become friends!) with so many of my favorite actors, singers, and other influential figures I looked up to and still do! It’s been neat to watch so many people connect with me because of my content. My least favorite part would have to be how much time you have to spend on social media. It can be easy to fall into the comparison game and be hypercritical of yourself. It can be easy to feel like someone is doing it better, faster, and funnier than you. I try to set boundaries for myself to keep my mental health strong and my consistency going.

VIE: WHAT IS A HIGHLIGHT MOMENT YOU’VE HAD AS AN INFLUENCER?

DS: Oh gosh! I’ve honestly been so lucky to have so many! I know it sounds simple, but probably the most impactful was moving away from my hometown and doing this full-time. It was so terrifying yet invigorating. I remember sitting on my couch in my new living room hundreds of miles away from my friends and family and thinking, “I really did it!” After you’ve worked hard for so long, sometimes it’s hard to realize it’s paying off. I was living in a brand-new city from my influencing income and finally seeing my hard work come to fruition.

he says. “It was around the time TikTok was taking off, and I remember feeling like the platform could be the perfect launchpad for me. I started posting funny skits and participating in trends, and the growth slowly started.”

Today, Smiley has amassed over 669,000 followers on TikTok, over 224,000 on Instagram, and has been featured by E! News, Buzzfeed, and The New York Times. Keep reading to discover how he keeps the laughs coming for his audience while balancing his happiness and career aspirations.

VIE: WHAT WORDS OF WISDOM WOULD YOU GIVE SOMEONE WHO IS INTERESTED IN BECOMING AN INFLUENCER?

DS: First, I truly believe the best time is now. From a technical perspective, these social media platforms are expanding into new niches every single day. There’s something for everyone; however, you have to be dedicated. It’s not a side hobby or a get-rich-quick scheme. I worked for almost two years before receiving a penny. This is a business that you have to be passionate about. When you put yourself on display daily, your intentions will eventually become crystal clear to your audience. They will 100-percent be able to tell if you’re inauthentic or just doing it for a bad reason. Lean into what you love, and don’t be afraid to fail. Try to look at every failure as an opportunity to improve because, like any new business, there are certain to be failures. Your job at the end of the day is to keep pushing and persevering, and this is much easier if you’re creating content that you love and get fulfillment from.

VIE: WHAT ARE YOU CURRENTLY WATCHING, LISTENING TO, OR READING?

DS: Currently watching the new season of Real Housewives of Salt Lake City. I cannot get enough! Listening to Taylor Swift—that’s a given. It depends on the day and my mood, but recently, I’ve had “Cornelia Street (Live from Paris)” and “Right Where You Left Me” on repeat! Currently reading Happy Place by Emily Henry. Go read it now!

VIE: BESIDES YOUR PHONE, WHAT’S ONE THING YOU CAN’T LEAVE HOME WITHOUT?

DS: Oooh, I’d probably have to say the tote bag I bring on most of my outings. It just has everything I need to get through the day: laptop, sunscreen (the curse of being a ginger), Aquaphor, hand sanitizer, and my AirPods! If I had to pick just one, though, Aquaphor saves my life every day. I use it on everyone and everything!

VIE: WHAT’S YOUR TOP TRAVEL DESTINATION FOR FALL?

DS: I wish I were going somewhere a little remote to see the leaves changing, but I’ve got other things to take care of! I know for a fact that I’ll be bouncing between Dallas, New York, and LA this fall, but that list is always changing, so who knows?

VIE: WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE FALL TREND?

DS: I absolutely love a knitted sweater. I feel like you can create a lot of dimension to your style once the cooler temperatures start. Fall is a time when I can finally stop sweating, let my personality shine through my clothing, and feel like myself again.

VIE: THANK YOU, DALTON!

THERE’S SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE, HOWEVER, YOU HAVE TO BE DEDICATED.

PRESENTED BY:

feat. Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue

Experience the electrifying energy of Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue live in concert. From the moment they take the stage, you'll be captivated by their infectious charisma and magnetic performance. With a fusion of funk, soul, R&B, and psychedelic rock, Grammy-nominated Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, deliver tight, explosive performances that will make you move. Don't miss out on this unforgettable musical celebration that showcases the primal power of music to bring us all together.

Saturday, Nov. 4 | 6 PM

Hotel Effie, Juniper Ballroom

TICKETS: FROM $250 PER

PERSON

The evening includes valet service, cocktail reception, silent and live auction, dinner by Chef Michael Krueger, live performance, tax and gratuities.

SCAN HERE TO BUY TICKETS

Box Office: SinfoniaGulfCoast.org

850.460.8800

Proceeds benefit Sinfonia Gulf Coast and its music education and community engagement initiatives throughout Northwest Florida.

Kindness Is in Fashion

Prolific fashion stylist, designer, motivational speaker, and Instagram evangelist Ty Hunter is best known for being the stylist to megawatt star Beyoncé since 1999. But the wellspoken, inspirational icon is so much more than that. Check out the bold phototorial “My Brother’s Keeper,” told through the late stylist and creative director DapperAfrika, photographer Julian White, and muse-meets-model Ty Hunter in VIE’s October 2018 issue.

VIE October 2018 Cover

Photo by Julian White

The FUTURE of REGENERATIVE SKIN CARE

Way more than a triple threat, Agatha Luzco began her career at the age of sixteen when she began modeling on the runways of Oscar de la Renta, Moschino, and Thierry Mugler, gracing the pages of Vogue, W, and L’Officiel, and starring in campaigns for Chanel, YSL, and Hermès. During this time, she collaborated with world-renowned creative directors, designers, and photographers, honing her eye for design and cultivating her aesthetic taste, which she applies in her current role as the chief creative officer at the regenerative skin-care brand Furtuna Skin.

As a model, Luzco has worked with the most sought-after makeup artists, skin-care experts, and physicians, acquiring an extensive understanding of products, ingredients, formulations, supplements, and regimens to help care for her skin and overall health and well-being. She parlays this knowledge into Furtuna Skin to help drive the development of the brand’s multi-award-winning, high-performing products. Her natural beauty also radiates as the face of Furtuna Skin, showcasing the brand’s transformative effects.

Croatian by heritage, Luzco has long embraced one of the key components of the Mediterranean diet: extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO). She is also a double-certified olive oil sommelier who judges competitions worldwide, passionate about educating the public about the multiple benefits of olive oil, especially regarding the skin. She has become a sought-after expert for speaking engagements, appearing on panels alongside other beauty entrepreneurs at the Cosmetic Executive Women conference. She has also been profiled in Vogue, goop, Modern Luxury, and more. In 2022, she was honored in the Create & Cultivate 100 as one of a select group of entrepreneurs “shaking up beauty’s multibillion-dollar industry.”

Luzco’s joint philanthropic initiatives with her husband, Steve, have been widely lauded, particularly their charitable and economic work in rural Sicily, where their La Furtuna Estate is based and where the ingredients comprising Furtuna Skin’s five-star-rated products are grown. Through the sustainable farming processes they implemented on the Estate, they continue to be environmental stewards while generating employment for the families living in a region blighted by high unemployment historically. In 2019, Pope Francis conferred upon Steve and Agatha the Pontifical Order of Pope Saint Sylvester (one of five Orders of Knighthood awarded directly by the Pope) in recognition of their philanthropy.

Luzco lives with her husband and four children, traveling between the United States and Europe as a family. VIE was thrilled to catch up with her to chat a little more about being a powerful woman in business and a creative influencer:

VIE: How and when did you start using social media?

Agatha Luzco: I started using social media several years ago in more of a personal capacity. When we launched Furtuna Skin in November 2019, I began harnessing it as a media platform. I see it as an extension of our website and a fantastic way to share our story with a broader audience and engage customers directly.

VIE: What is your favorite part about your job, and what is your least favorite?

AL: My favorite part about being a founder and chief creative officer is bringing my vision to life and seeing it resonate with others. Seeing our products or campaigns come to fruition and make a positive impact is incredibly rewarding. My least favorite part is when it takes me away from our family.

VIE: What is a highlight moment you’ve had as an influencer?

AL: One of the highlights for the company was when we won the award for Global Vision by Travel + Leisure because it recognized the strides we are taking on the farm in Sicily, where our ingredients are grown to develop more sustainable and responsible skin care. Through our regenerative agriculture practices, we are creating consistent employment for local farmers, reviving nearly extinct species of flora, protecting bird species, safeguarding biodiversity, and driving product performance.

VIE: What words of wisdom would you give someone interested in becoming an influencer or starting a brand?

AL: Find a mentor or, if you’re very lucky, multiple mentors. Find someone already living the life you want and who can offer the right encouragement, wisdom, and advice.

VIE: What are you currently watching, listening to, or reading?

AL: I’m a bit behind on TV shows, but I’m enjoying The White Lotus, Season 2, particularly its glorious depiction of Sicily.

VIE: Besides your phone, what’s one thing you can’t leave home without?

AL: Furtuna Skin’s Replenishing Balm! It’s a fix-all for dry skin, curling iron burns, dry cuticles—you name it.

VIE: What’s your top travel destination for fall?

AL: In the fall, I’m traveling with my team to New York to launch our Triple Active Exfoliator. It’s my favorite city in the world to visit at that time of year because of the changing leaves and foliage—the colors are breathtaking.

VIE: What’s your favorite fall trend?

AL: I love blazers for the way they add structure and a pulled-together touch to any look, so I’m excited to see a suit resurgence for fall.

VIE: Thank you, Agatha!

I SEE SOCIAL MEDIA AS A FANTASTIC WAY TO SHARE OUR STORY WITH A BROADER AUDIENCE AND ENGAGE CUSTOMERS DIRECTLY.

Fully Living

Mallory Ervin @ malloryervin livingfullyco.com

’d had a big life shift, coming from pageants and reality television, and was looking for a way to still have a career in the public space but do something new,” says Mallory Ervin, who became known to the world first as Miss Kentucky and Miss America runner-up and then as a contestant on The Amazing Race After taking a few hits from life and battling mental illness and addiction post-TV fame, Ervin knew she was meant for more and wanted a fresh start and a way to help others by sharing her story. “At the time, everyone was doing blogs, and I jumped into that first. Shortly after, I started a YouTube channel and gained quick success, and it kind of went from there!”

We had the privilege of meeting Ervin and shooting a spectacular VIE cover for the March 2023 issue, and we were delighted to catch up with her again to talk a little more about what it means to be an influencer!

VIE: What is your favorite part about your job, and what is your least favorite?

Mallory Ervin:: My favorite part is that I can really do anything on any given day! I can do a recipe, a podcast, a makeup tutorial, or share something I’m struggling with. It’s never the same thing, and I love that. My other favorite part is the community! It’s incredible the community that forms around you from sharing your life on social media. They then support every endeavor you do. Every new product, video, or collab I come out with, my community is there busting the doors down to support me! It’s incredible.

I don’t actually have a least favorite part. Maybe it’s that Instagram is a platform that’s a little up and down, so it’s shaky ground to build your entire business on. But I am spread across many platforms for that reason.

VIE: What is a highlight moment you’ve had as an influencer?

ME: When my book came out. It felt like such a huge thing to have come into the world! And anytime I get a magazine cover, like my VIE one this year, it’s such a highlight!

VIE: What words of wisdom would you give someone interested in becoming an influencer?

ME: Come on in! There is plenty of space, and it’s never too late to start. Also, get out of your own way. You don’t have to figure it all out or have a website, professional photos, or all these things people think they need. Just start. It’s an incredible career!

VIE: What are you currently watching, listening to, or reading?

ME: 90 Day Fiancé, podcasts constantly, and audiobooks! I’m a creature of habit and listen to the same books over and over. The Secret by Rhonda Byrne and The Source by Dr. Tara Swart are my two go-to books! I’ve probably listened to them a hundred times or more. I only listen to books (busy mom life).

VIE: Besides your phone, what’s one thing you can’t leave home without?

ME: Diapers or lip liner!

VIE: What's your top travel destination for fall?

ME: Vail, Colorado

VIE: What's your favorite fall trend?

ME: Denim cut-offs with oversized sweaters or blouses. I’m also loving the trucker hat with dresses trend lately!

VIE: Thank you, Mallory!

[Get] out of your own way. You don't have to figure it all out . . .

200

YEARS AND COUNTLESS MEMORIES

Story and photography courtesy of WALTON COUNTY TOURISM

ith Walton County approaching its bicentennial year in 2024, there’s no better time to reflect on the rich history of this incredible destination and how it has evolved over the years while staying true to the unique founding spirit.

It all starts with the sugar-white sand, of course. Over millions of years, particles of quartz weathered away from the Appalachian Mountains and were refined as they journeyed along rivers to the Gulf of Mexico. Here, they formed the substance of South Walton’s stunning beaches—a true focal point of our local landscape.

Though the surrounding communities have a much briefer history, they are marked by milestones that are just as worthy of celebrating as those grains of sand. From the earliest residents to the rise of New Urbanism, the incredible variety of influences here is a big part of what makes this such a special area to live and visit. Walton County has benefited from the diverse traditions of the early Native Americans and Spanish, French, and English settlers, among others. Elements of all these cultures are still reflected in our local municipalities today.

In the 1700s and 1800s, Native American tribes such as the Muscogee, Creek, and Euchee Indians inhabited the surrounding land. Today, the Muscogee Nation of Walton County is based in the town of Bruce. This includes a historic schoolhouse that is filled with crafts and work of the tribe’s elders.

The Chautauqua Building in historic Downtown DeFuniak Springs, Florida

PERHAPS ITS MOST IMPORTANT ONGOING LEGACY IS THE EFFECT IT HAS ON SO MANY LIVES—CREATING LASTING MEMORIES FOR RESIDENTS AND VISITORS ALIKE. IT ALWAYS FEELS NEW BECAUSE THERE’S NEVER A SHORTAGE OF THINGS TO SEE AND EXPERIENCE.

alton County was officially founded on December 29, 1824. It was named for Col. George Walton Jr., son of a signer of the Declaration of Independence and secretary of the Florida Territory from 1821 to 1826. The area originally comprised more than 2,900 square miles that covered parts of Okaloosa, Washington, and Holmes counties. The first census in 1830 tallied a head count of just 1,207 residents.

The county initially thrived north of the Choctawhatchee Bay. Since the early days, farming has remained one of the primary occupations of local residents. However, waterways and later railways continued to bring more development to the area. Founded in 1880, DeFuniak Springs would become the county seat. Its historical presence— including the remnants of the community’s original Chautauqua Assembly—is still on full display in the ornamental homes and buildings along Main Street and around Circle Drive.

Grayton Beach later became the first community established in South Walton. Named after Army Major Charles T. Gray, it was founded in the mid1880s. Despite sustaining damage in the great

hurricane of 1926, the beach neighborhood’s largest home at the time (built in 1890) still remains standing today.

Beyond all its historical and cultural charm, Walton County is also home to natural elements that continue to stand the test of time. Explore preserved forests of scrub oaks and pines. Dive into crystalclear, spring-fed swimming holes like Morrison Springs. Paddle across rare coastal dune lakes, only found elsewhere in far-flung locales such as New Zealand, Australia, and Madagascar.

On the cusp of its two-hundredth birthday, Walton County’s present-day personality reflects equal parts adventure, refinement, and beauty. Perhaps its most important ongoing legacy is the effect it has on so many lives—creating lasting memories for residents and visitors alike. It always feels new because there’s never a shortage of things to see and experience. So, make it a point this coming year to discover something about this place you never knew existed. That’s the best birthday gift you can give to a place that has offered so much.

Inlet Beach, Florida

A historic home in Downtown DeFuniak Springs

Solution on next page

CELEBRITIES & INFLUENCERS

BY MYLES MELLOR

ACROSS

1 Popular fashion blogger and designer (2 words)

6 Finger-pointing Uncle

8 Rosa, civil rights pioneer

9 One of the greatest soccer players of all time and widely followed online, Cristiano _____

10 In apple-pie order

11 Grey’s Anatomy’s Sandra

12 Notorious for his six wives, ____ VIII

15 Famous leaning tower city

16 Football position, abbr.

17 Inauguration poet Angelou

19 For example, abbr.

23 Canadian heartthrob and musician with 477 million followers across social media, Justin ____

24 Butch Cassidy actor, last name

26 ___ Paulo

27 ___ salad sandwich

28 Penny

30 Nobel award

31 Princess tormentor

33 Sodium symbol

35 First name of the president known for his honesty

36

____ Day, April 22, celebrating support for environmental protection

DOWN

1 Luxury ski area

2 First name of the pop singer who had 19 number-one hits on the Billboard Hot 100

3 New Orleans, with Big

4 She influenced millions with her long-running TV show

5 He popularized nonviolent protest and used it to free his nation from British rule

6 Pop star and Disney child actress, now a major influencer

7 The ____ Blues (rock group)

13 Vane direction, abbr.

14 Founder of Microsoft

16 Oscar-winning Hitchcock film

18 Great grades

20 Leader of the 1960s Civil Rights Movement influencing major reforms

21 Socialite and reality TV star with 450 million followers on social media, Kylie ____

22 America’s first president, first name

24 Downy coating

25 007, for one

29 Last word of “America the Beautiful”

31 Acidity factor, abbr.

32 Before noon

34

Surprised expression

Puzzle on previous page

Be the change you wish to see

in the world.

—Mahatma Gandhi

Our second luxury coffee - table book, COOK by VIE, debuts in Fall 2023 as a celebration of Cocktails, Cuisine & Culture.

Published by

Au revoir!

BEFORE YOU GO . . .

Victory has a new face. Coco Gauff claimed the US Open women’s singles title at age nineteen, echoing Serena Williams’s iconic teenage triumph in 1999. With her current world ranking at No. 3, she is the youngest American to win a Grand Slam title in this century. In 2019, a then fifteen-yearold Gauff stunned the tennis world by defeating Venus Williams at Wimbledon. Both Williams sisters have significantly shaped her tennis trajectory. During the 2020 Australian Open, Serena lauded Gauff as being “impressive all around.” Off the court, her Christian faith remains her steadfast anchor; she prays with her father before each match for strength and safety. Her journey, marked by grace and determination, is just beginning.

Coco Gauff celebrates after her victory in the fourth round against Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark at the US Open Championships at Billie Jean King Tennis Center, New York, on September 3, 2023.

Photo by Lev Radin/Shutterstock

SOUNDS WITH SOUL

Concert featuring the Tip Tops at Grand Boulevard

October 6, 5:30–9:00 PM

WITCHES OF SOUTH WALTON WITCH RIDES

(WitchesofSouthWalton.com)

October 27–31

DCWAF

Harvest Wine Festival

October 21

STORY PAIRING DINNER with Emerald Coast Storytellers

November 16

Learn