THE WHARF
“ELEGANCE IS WHEN THE INSIDE IS AS BEAUTIFUL AS THE OUTSIDE.”
- COCO CHANEL
Happy April, welcome to the INVEST Issue!
Investing is more than just finance investments— it’s the dedication of time, energy, and resources toward something with the expectation of a meaningful return. Whether we invest in our community, relationships, finances, health, or even entertainment, the goal is to create a lasting and positive impact.
On a practical level, we also invest in protecting our belongings—our homes, businesses, and vehicles. Taking the necessary steps to safeguard these assets provides security and peace of mind, allowing us to focus on enjoying life rather than worrying about the unexpected.
Financial investments help build wealth, achieve long-term goals, and secure our future, while personal investments in family and relationships strengthen the bonds that shape our lives. The time and effort we dedicate to loved ones often yield the most meaningful and lasting rewards.
While the way we invest in ourselves, our communities, and our well-being may differ from person to person, the intention remains the same—to create a better, more fulfilling life. In this issue, we explore the many ways we can invest in what truly matters.
At the heart of every investment is the desire to build something valuable— whether it’s a stronger community, a secure future, or deeper relationships with those we love. The choices we make today shape the lives we lead tomorrow. As you read through this issue, we hope it inspires you to reflect on the ways you are investing in what matters most and to embrace new opportunities to create a lasting, positive impact in your life and the lives of those around you.
Thank you for inviting us into your homes and lives each month.
Love local, Live local, and Spend locally,
Until next month...
ASHLEY ROBERTS, PUBLISHER @GULF_COAST_CITYLIFESTYLE
April 2025
PUBLISHER
Ashley Roberts | ashley.roberts@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Lillian Taylor | lillian.taylor@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
JD Swiger- Swiger Studio, David Lehr, Alive Coverage, Candice Brown Photography, Ella Langley, 3 Doors Down, T-Pain, Brooks & Dunn, Morgan Wallen, Hardy, and Riley Green
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Community Bank staff: Shelly Beech and Jane Yarborough at The Business Expo. 2: Gone Coastal Plumbing & HVAC, held their ribbon-cutting during the expo. Congratulations! 3: We had a blast at The Expo, our booth theme is our mantra: We-LOVE-Local. 4: CABC staff: Sharon Wiese-Ale Lewis-Kimberly Ray representing The Inaugural Coastal Alabama Business Expo. 5: King & King Law Firm was represented by Dusty and Jennifer King. Wonderful legal team! 6: Gulf Coast Roast was on-site keeping us all caffeinated for The Expo. Thank you Chelsey! 7: Jenny Summerville with The Designery displaying all the options for your dream home or renovation.
P. DUPRÉ
P. DUPRÉ
8, 9, 11, 12: Orange Beach Methodist Church hosted their 2nd Annual Galentine’s Dinner at MileMarker158. 10: Estelle Permanent Jewelry was on site creating custom jewelry for all of the ladies. 13: Baldwin GYN & Aesthetics hosted a wellness event, using EmSculpt to promote healing of injuries. 14: Mallory Hogg demonstrates EmScuplt on injuries, such as rotator cuff-Carpal Tunnel-knee pain-plantar fasciitis, and more.
15-19, 21: Orange Beach Garden Club hosted their 37th Annual Game Day & Salad Luncheon. 20: Chamber Awards: Ellen Marinaccio-Ambassador-of-theQuarter, Jason Foreman-Diplomat-of the Quarter, Morgan Gilette-Angel Bennett-The Beach Moms-Small-Business-of-the-Quarter. Congratulations!
22-24: Orange Beach Garden Club hosted their 37th Annual Game Day & Salad Luncheon. 24: Nancy and Mark Dickhute at TOI Ball looking festive. Laissez les bon temps rouler! 25: Treasure Of The Isle at their annual Mardi Gras Ball. It was an ‘Enchanted Evening’. 26: Jennifer and Dusty King enjoying the TOI Ball. Jennifer’s dress was absolutely beautiful. 27: Queen Janet Ethridge and King Fred Armstrong looked so regal at the TOI Ball. 28: Ball Chair-Jeanne Fitzgibbons and Queen-Janet Ethridge pose for a quick photo before The Tableau begins.
29-32: Treasure Of The Isle at their annual Mardi Gras Ball. It was an ‘Enchanted Evening’. 33: JD Swiger’s art show for his latest series ‘LOVE NOTES’ was a huge success. 34: Podcaster Jamie Lin was on-site broadcasting from the art show at IceHouse Tap Room. 35: Angie, JD, Michael and David Swiger showing their family support for ‘LOVE NOTES’ and JD.
THE PSYCHOLOGY OF INVESTING
WHY YOUR MIND MATTERS AS MUCH AS YOUR MONEY
ARTICLE BY ALAN RYALS PHOTOGRAPHY BY JD SWIGER-SWIGER STUDIO
Investing is often seen as a numbers game. A world of data, charts, and financial models. The reality is that success in investing has as much to do with your mind as your money. Money is deeply emotional. It represents security, freedom, and opportunity, which makes investing a psychologically charged activity. While market movements are unpredictable, investor behavior follows consistent patterns. Time and again, investors make decisions based on emotions rather than logic, often to their detriment.
Take the Dot-Com Bubble of the late 1990s. Irrational exuberance led to sky-high valuations for tech stocks, and when the bubble burst, many lost fortunes. More recently, the GameStop frenzy demonstrated how social influence and FOMO (fear of missing out) can drive investors to make risky decisions. The key to making sound financial decisions lies in understanding the psychology of investing.
There are countless ways in which our emotions and biases control our decision-making. But, here are three of the most common in investing:
FEAR AND GREED
Fear and greed are the primary drivers of market behavior. Greed leads investors to chase performance, overinvest in hot stocks, and take excessive risks. A prime example is Bitcoin in 2021, when many investors rushed in at record highs, only to watch prices collapse.
Conversely, fear causes panic selling and prevents investors from taking rational risks. In March 2020, as COVID-19 triggered market chaos, many sold their portfolios at significant losses, only to miss one of the fastest recoveries in history.
LOSS AVERSION
Behavioral finance research, particularly by Nobel Prize winners Daniel Kahneman and Amos Tversky, shows that investors feel the pain of losses more intensely than the joy of gains. This “loss aversion” leads to conservative decision-making, causing investors to avoid re-entering the market after a downturn even when conditions improve. For instance, after the 2008 crash, some investors refused to buy stocks again, convinced another collapse was imminent. Their reluctance cost them the chance to participate in the longest bull market in history.
RECENCY BIAS: ASSUMING THE FUTURE WILL LOOK LIKE THE RECENT PAST
Investors often assume that what has happened recently will continue indefinitely. In other words, when the future is blurry, we often look to the past to inform what might happen
"THE MOST SUCCESSFUL INVESTORS UNDERSTAND THAT WEALTH IS BUILT OVER TIME. THE KEY TO SUCCESSFUL INVESTING ISN’T TIMING THE MARKET—IT’S TIME IN THE MARKET."
in the future. After the 2009-2010 recovery, many remained on the sidelines, fearing another crash. Similarly, during the Great Depression, countless investors assumed stocks would never recover, missing decades of subsequent growth. The most successful investors understand that wealth is built over time. The key to successful investing isn’t timing the market—it’s time in the market. Those who remain patient and avoid emotional decision-making tend to fare better in the long run.
Warren Buffett exemplifies this principle. He doesn’t react to short-term market swings but instead focuses on long-term value. His most successful investments were made decades ago, a testament to the power of patience, discipline, and of course, compounding growth. The magic of compounding rewards the investor who stays invested through market cycles and benefits from exponential growth over time. However, those who panic and sell disrupt this process, reducing their potential gains and wealth accumulation.
This is why Morgan Housel, author of the best-selling book The Psychology of Money, says “How you behave is more important than what you know.” Investing success is as much about managing your emotions as it is about managing your portfolio. Recognizing biases and emotional triggers can help you make better financial decisions.
Ultimately, the best investors aren’t necessarily the smartest—they’re the most disciplined. By understanding and managing the psychological side of investing, you can improve your financial outcomes and build long-term wealth.
ALAN RYALS
Wealth Manager / Co-Founder
RFG ADVISORY, LLC
27844 Canal Road, Suite A Orange Beach, AL 36561
205.253.1910 DIRECT
205.707.2323 TEXT 205.397.2460 FAX
INVESTING IN BUSINESS LAW
As a business owner, you’ve invested time, energy, and capital into building your company. Whether you’re launching a startup, expanding an existing business, or navigating the complexities of contracts and compliance, investing in business law is just as critical as investing in your operations. At King & King, Attorneys at Law, we help businesses throughout Baldwin County safeguard their assets, limit liability, and position themselves for long-term success.
WHY BUSINESS LAW MATTERS
Too often, business owners wait until a legal issue arises before seeking legal counsel. However, proactive legal planning can prevent costly disputes, protect your business from lawsuits, and ensure that your company operates smoothly. By investing in business law from the start, you’re making a strategic move to secure your financial future.
HOW KING & KING PROTECTS YOUR BUSINESS
1. Business Formation & Structuring
Choosing the right business entity—LLC, S-Corp, or partnership—can impact taxes, liability, and daily operations. We help business owners select and structure their businesses correctly to minimize personal risk and maximize financial security.
2. Contracts & Agreements
Solid contracts are the foundation of a successful business. We draft, review, and negotiate partnership agreements, vendor contracts,
employment agreements, and more to protect your interests and reduce the risk of disputes.
3. Asset Protection & Liability Limitation
Without proper legal safeguards, your personal assets could be at risk if your business faces litigation or financial difficulties. We help structure comprehensive asset protection strategies to shield your wealth and property.
4. Business Succession Planning
Whether you’re preparing to sell, retire, or transition ownership to family members, we create business succession plans to ensure a seamless transfer of assets and minimize disruptions.
“INVESTING IN BUSINESS LAW IS JUST AS CRITICAL AS INVESTING IN YOUR OPERATIONS. WE ARE COMMITTED TO HELPING BALDWIN COUNTY BUSINESS OWNERS MAKE INFORMED LEGAL DECISIONS THAT PROTECT THEIR INVESTMENTS AND REDUCE RISK.”
Protect Your Business Today. At King & King, Attorneys at Law, we are committed to helping Baldwin County business owners make informed legal decisions that protect their investments and reduce risk. Smart business owners don’t wait for legal problems— they prevent them. Let us be your trusted legal advisors. Contact us today at (251) 5016100 or visit our website at www.kingplc.com to schedule a consultation. Invest in your business’s legal foundation now—because protecting your future starts today.
No representation is made that the quality of legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.
LUX Detailing
INVEST IN YOUR RIDE
ARTICLE BY LILLIAN TAYLOR | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JD SWIGER-SWIGER STUDIO
Nestled in the heart of Baldwin County, Lux Detailing is more than just a detailing shop; it’s a family-owned business that’s genuinely making a difference in the community. Owner Wade Murrell and his family took a bold leap of faith, moving from Western Kentucky to pursue their dreams and create a welcoming space where quality service and a sense of community go hand in hand. Their commitment to providing exceptional care for vehicles is evident in everything they do. While detailing is a significant focus for Lux Detailing, the range of services they offer goes far beyond just cleaning cars. They understand that a vehicle is often a reflection of its owner, and they strive to enhance that image with every service they provide. One of the key offerings is their paint protection service, designed to keep vehicles looking fresh and vibrant. This is especially important in Baldwin County, where the sun can be intense and environmental factors can wear down a car’s exterior over time. The team at Lux Detailing takes the time to explain the benefits of paint protection, helping clients understand how it can prolong the life and appearance of their vehicles.
Another service that has gained popularity is the ceramic coating. This innovative solution acts as a protective barrier against dirt, grime, and harmful UV rays, making it much easier for clients to maintain their vehicles. Wade knows that many customers lead busy lives, and the last thing they want to worry about is spending hours cleaning their cars. With ceramic coating, clients can enjoy a car that looks great with less effort. It’s all about providing services that simplify life while enhancing the vehicle.
Customers love the personal touch that Wade and his team bring to every interaction. Taking the time to get to know their clients and their vehicles and tailoring their services to fit individual needs. This focus on building relationships creates a sense of trust that is hard to find elsewhere. When you walk through the door, you’re not just another customer; you’re treated like family. Wade often shares his philosophy: “We treat every car like it’s our own.” This mindset extends to how they approach customer service, ensuring that everyone leaves feeling valued and appreciated.
your car but in the community you’re part of. Lux Detailing embodies this spirit, creating an environment where clients feel comfortable and cared for.
As the automotive industry continues to evolve, Lux Detailing remains committed to growth and improvement. Wade is always keen to learn new techniques and stay updated on the latest products. He regularly attends workshops and training sessions to ensure that his team is equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to provide top-notch service. This dedication to continuous learning means that clients can expect the best experience possible, no matter what service they choose.
“A place where people can trust that their vehicles will be treated with the utmost care and respect.”
If you’re in Baldwin County and looking for a place that genuinely cares about your vehicle, Lux Detailing is the perfect choice. They offer a wide array of services beyond detailing, focusing on enhancing and protecting your investment. With a family-oriented atmosphere and a commitment to excellence, it’s easy to see why so many people trust Lux Detailing with their vehicles.
Wade’s journey to Baldwin County is inspiring and serves as a reminder of the power of hard work and dedication. He believes that investing in your vehicle’s appearance is just as important as investing in the connections you build along the way. For Wade, it’s about cultivating pride—not just in
For more information and to experience the difference for yourself, visit luxproteam.com. With Lux Detailing, you’re not just enhancing your vehicle; you’re becoming part of a community that values quality, integrity, and genuine care. Whether you need a simple wash or a comprehensive protective service, Wade and his team are ready to help you take pride in your vehicle and enjoy the road ahead.
Who are you investing for?
At Edward Jones, we want to know what you want out of life on a personal level. Then, we want to help you achieve it by creating a financial strategy that’s unique to your specific needs.
Investing is about more than money, sometimes it’s about people. That’s why at Edward Jones we’ll work together to understand your goals—what you’re saving for or who you’re saving for.
Let’s talk. Contact us today to learn more.
Get in touch today to discuss what’s really important: family.
BOOTS-FESTIVAL
ARTICLE BY LILLIAN TAYLOR | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALIVE COVERAGE
Morgan Wallen
If you thought Gulf Shores was a paradise for sunbathers and beachgoers, wait until you experience it during the inaugural “Sand in My Boots” Festival! We caught up with the festival’s producer, Reeves Price, to learn about the inspiration, local partnerships, eco-friendly initiatives, and the festival’s promise to enrich our vibrant community.
So, what sparked the idea for a festival that makes you want to kick off your shoes and dance in the sand? According to Reeves, it all started with country music superstar Morgan Wallen. “Morgan approached us with a vision for his own festival, and his description matched perfectly with the beaches of Gulf Shores,” Reeves said. Lucky for us, Reeves and his team have been making waves with Hangout Fest for years. With their expertise, it’s no wonder they jumped at the chance to help Morgan bring his festival dream to life.
Brooks & Dunn
One of the best aspects of the Sand in My Boots Festival is the commitment to supporting local businesses. “We work with local businesses whenever we can,” Reeves explained. From Kutter’s Ground Maintenance, who will keep the grounds looking pristine, to Island Coastal, ensuring safety during the event, the festival is a community effort. It’s not just about music; it’s about uplifting the local economy and showcasing the talents of Gulf Shores entrepreneurs.
The festival’s impact on local businesses is already roaring. Tickets for Sand in My Boots sold out in under four hours last November, including hotels and condos in the area. “We’ve spoken with local businesses who all see a significant impact during festival weekend,” Reeves shared. The festival isn’t just a weekend event; it’s part of a larger vision to extend visitors’ stays in Gulf Shores, encouraging them to explore fishing trips, beach activities, and more. Who wouldn’t want to add a little adventure to their festival experience?
With local businesses and the community at heart, Sand in My Boots Festival promises to create lasting memories while embracing sustainability and support for the Gulf Shores area. Together, we’re not just hosting an event; we’re building a movement rooted in music, fun, and togetherness!
Considering our pristine beaches, the Sand in My Boots Festival is stepping up. With an on-site recycling program, festival-goers can pick up recycling bags, fill them with waste they find, and return them for prizes! “The person with the most bags filled over the weekend will receive a grand prize,” Reeves promised. The festival also collaborates with local conservation efforts such as Share the Beach (a local sea turtle conservation program) to protect our beautiful beaches and marine life. It’s a win for the environment and the community.
Hardy
Riley Green
Reeves and his team are not just in it for the short haul. “We hope to always have a festival here in Gulf Shores,” he stated. With the successful Hangout Fest as a foundation, the new Sand in My Boots Festival is set to become a cherished tradition. The duo of festivals promises to keep Gulf Shores on the map as a destination for music lovers and adventure seekers alike. Reeves emphasized the importance of listening to the community: “We work closely with the City of Gulf Shores to enhance the festival experience based on feedback.” With a customer service hotline available during the event, attendees will have a direct line to share their thoughts. It’s all about creating a festival that reflects the spirit of Gulf Shores. “Gulf Shores is an amazing town – white sandy beaches, generous hospitality, and so many opportunities for adventure,” Reeves explained.
As the excitement builds, Reeves has one heartfelt message for the community: “Thank You! The support we’ve already seen has been amazing!” With a sell-out event on the horizon, it’s clear that Gulf Shores is ready to embrace this new festival. So, get your sunscreen ready, and prepare for an unforgettable experience. Sand in My Boots is here, and it’s going to be amazing!
Morgan Wallen T-Pain
Invest In Your Space
THE ETRAPP SOLUTION FOR A/C FLOODING
As summer approaches and temperatures rise, ensuring your air conditioning system runs smoothly becomes crucial. However, many homeowners and business owners may not realize that a hidden issue in HVAC systems can lead to severe flooding and costly damage. Enter the eTrapp—a groundbreaking product designed to safeguard your home or office from condensate pan overflow.
I recently spoke with Rusty Welch a fractional CFO and CEO of eTRAPPFLA with extensive experience in the HVAC industry, who shared insights about this innovative solution. Imagine coming home after a long day, ready to relax in a cool, comfortable space, only to find water pooling from an overflowing A/C pan. It’s a nightmare scenario that many have faced. The eTrapp offers a proactive solution to this problem. With its patented technology, it prevents the growth of algae, fungi, and other organic compounds that can clog condensate systems. Rusty pointed out that while traditional fixes like floats and switches only address the symptoms of clogging, the eTrapp tackles the root cause, providing real peace of mind.
ARTICLE BY LILLIAN TAYLOR | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JD SWIGER-
One of the many amazing features of the eTrapp is its real-time performance monitoring. Imagine having an app on your phone that keeps you updated about your A/C system’s health. The eTrapp uses advanced flow sensing and condensate treatment to send alerts if there are flow irregularities or if it’s time to change a cartridge. This level of oversight allows you to stay ahead of potential problems and avoid those dreaded surprises.
Whether you’re a homeowner trying to keep your space comfortable or a business owner managing a commercial property, the eTrapp has you covered. It offers two connection options: a standard Wi-Fi setup for residential use and an Enterprise Version using LoRa WAN technology for larger networks. This is especially beneficial for apartment complexes and government buildings, where reliable monitoring is essential.
Rusty also highlighted how userfriendly the eTrapp app is. With it, you can easily monitor indoor and outdoor conditions and keep track of real-time condensate levels. “It really takes the stress out of managing your A/C system,” he said, and I couldn’t agree more. Knowing you have a reliable system in place allows you to focus on enjoying your summer rather than worrying about flooding.
The eTrapp doesn’t stop at monitoring; it comes loaded with features that enhance its functionality. The chemical treatment it employs keeps algae and fungus at bay, preventing clogs. It also monitors sewage gas backflow and alerts you when your A/C unit needs to activate to maintain a safe water barrier.
Proudly made in the USA by eDelta Inc., the eTrapp is designed for A/C systems up to 7.5 tons or 90,000 BTUs, making it a robust solution for modern needs. If you’re ready to protect your investment, Contact Rusty Welch at 225.445.0038. Your summer self will thank you!
“Knowing you have a reliable system in place allows you to focus on enjoying your summer rather than worrying about flooding.”
events
APRIL 3RD, 10TH, 18TH & 24TH
Wine Events for April
C'est Le Vin
April 3 (Thursday) - Classically Cool Varietals 101 w/ Kelani | April 10 (Thursday) - Freixenet Mionetto w/ Chris Wright
April 18 (Friday) - Blind Tasting w/ Winston | April 24 (Thursday) - Monsieur Touton Wine Importers
Reservations required.
APRIL 5TH
Mudbugs & Margaritas
Heritage Park, Foley | 10:00 AM
All food vendors will have unique, tasty crawfish dishes along with other menu items for purchase. Multiple Margarita Lines. Beer and wine. Scrumptious snack vendors. Great live music all day. Art & craft, home decor, and unique vendors. Contests throughout the day. Huge kids' entertainment/activity area. Petting zoo, bounce houses and more. Adults: $5. Kids12 and under:Free
APRIL 8TH
Sturgill Simpson Concert
The Wharf Amphitheater | 7:30 PM
John Sturgill Simpson is an American country music singer-songwriter and actor. He has released eight albums as a solo artist. Simpson's style has been met with critical favor and frequent comparisons to outlaw country. Simpson released his first album in three years, Passage du Desir, under the “Johnny Blue Skies” moniker.
APRIL 19TH
Flora-Bama Easter Egg Hunt & Services
Flora-Bama | 11:00 AM
Happy Easter to everybunny. Kids' crafts and face painting will begin at 11am in the tent. The Easter Egg Hunt will begin at noon on the beach behind the Flora-Bama and the Easter Bunny will skydive onto the beach shortly after. Please bring your own Easter basket.
APRIL 23RD
Flora-Bama Mullet Swing Golf Tournament
Peninsula Golf & Racquet Club | 10:00 AM
The 27th Annual Mullet Swing Golf Classic will be a 4-person scramble. Maximum handicap per player is 30. This event helps raise proceeds for the Multiple Sclerosis Society. Trophies will be awarded to 1st, 2nd, 3rd place, and longest drive. Register your team on the Flora-Bama website. See you there!
APRIL 24TH-26TH
BAMA Coast Cruisin'
The Wharf
Bama Coast Cruisin’ is an absolutely stunning show. Held at The Wharf and set against the backdrop of the Inter-Coastal Waterway and the Canal Bridge. It’s a laid back, family friendly weekend full of amazing cars, fun events, entertainment and Southern hospitality.
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
INDOOR PLANT GUIDE
Investing in indoor plants can not only spruce up your living space, but also bring numerous health and well-being benefits
SNAKE PLANT:
The Snake Plant is for anyone from a green thumb to a black thumb because anyone can grow it. These hardy plants can adapt to any environment and can live in both high light and low light.
HOPE PEPEROMIA:
The Hope Peperomia likes medium to bright direct sunlight. It does well as a tabletop plant or a hanging plant. Watering is only needed one time a month regardless of plant size.
Bringing the outdoors in with the use of house plants is a great way to add color and dimension to your space. We sat down with Jesse Nelson at Family Tree Nursery, based in Kansas, and discussed the benefits of incorporating plant life into your home. “There are plenty of studies on the health benefits of plants, and the evidence suggests that being around plants and caring for plant life increases overall wellness,” explains Nelson. “Anytime you bring a plant into a home or work environment, it’s going to make you feel better. It is going to beautify the space in a way that art cannot, and they also have the added benefit of purifying the air.” There are a wide variety of indoor plants that work for any space and light situation that you may have. Regardless if you have a green thumb or a black thumb, there are plant varieties that fit your lifestyle. Here are a few of our favorite indoor plants to incorporate into your home.
ZZ PLANT:
The ZZ plant, which its formal name is Zamioculas Zamiifolia, is a very easy plant to care for. They like anything from low light to bright light. These plants are hard to kill and can go a long time without being watered.
