Venice, FL March 2019

MARCH 2019

LifestylePubs.com/Venice

GRAND PALM’S NATURAL SETTING HIGHLIGHTS LUXURY

BRAVES' SPRING TRAINING STADIUM NEARS COMPLETION

A TROPICAL OASIS AT PELICANS AND FLAMINGOS

Your Isle of

Bliss!

Toes in the sand, laughter with friends, vibrant downtown venues, and a sigh of relief that your only responsibility is choosing what to have for lunch.

Village On The Isle is the ideal island retirement destination.

Enjoy life surrounded by fun, friendship and fulfillment, plus the security of on-site health care—for life.

Join us for an event or schedule a tour.

Call 1-941-275-6509 or visit www.VillageOnTheIsle.com/bliss

920 Tamiami Trail South Venice, FL 34285

1-941-275-6509

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OIR #88005

LIFESTYLE LETTER

MARCH 2019 PUBLISHER

Charmaine Tincher | charmaine.tincher@lifestylepubs.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Tony D'Souza | tony.dsouza@lifestylepubs.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Tony D'Souza, Nicolette Martin

Our Home Issue

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Prion Photography

“HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS.” It’s a common phrase meaning our homes are central in our lives—where we rest our heads, nourish our bodies and make fond memories with loved ones. Our homes are the epicenters of our worlds, where we start and end each day, and where we keep our most prized possessions. But home is a concept that embraces our wider Venice community as well.

This month, we bring you our Home Issue. Take a look at some of Venice’s unique architecture in these pages. Over at Neal Communities’ Grand Palm, our very own National Builder of the Year has preserved the natural landscape to create a luxury living setting filled with wetlands, a sprawling lake and beautiful trees. The Atlanta Braves are completing construction nearby on their $100 million spring training stadium, sure to draw even more people to our area to call it home—and offering us excellent springtime and year-round entertainment.

As the weather warms up, there’s no better time to refresh your interiors with a few

CORPORATE TEAM

new home decor accents. For inspiration, we’ve included a feature on Darrell and

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

Nicki Hoke’s vibrant Pelicans and Flamingos furniture and consignment store, a true

CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

local destination that many mistake for a whimsical mini-tourist attraction.

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

We hope this issue inspires you to appreciate this place we call home—both your

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

personal dwelling and our shared Venice community—whether you’ve just moved into town or your family has enjoyed our sun and beaches for generations.

Venice keeps growing and growing, never losing our hometown feel. What a wonderful and exciting place to live! Here’s to our home sweet home!

EDITORIAL MANAGER Nicolette Martin AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTORS John Newman | Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

Charmaine Tincher, publisher Charmaine.Tincher@lifestylepubs.com

ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA NEVADA | NEW JERSEY | NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

ON THE COVER Vase with bouquet of

LifestylePubs.com/Venice

Proverbs 3:5-6 Venice Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the

tulips on wooden table

US Postal Service to some of the Venice areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and

PHOTOGRAPHY BY AFRICA STUDIO

magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications

advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors.

Information in Venice Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the

4

Venice Lifestyle | March 2019

accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

Robin’s furry therapist is a real pro

For someone fighting cancer, Robin feels pretty fortunate. There’s good news from her cancer team and her girlfriend is helping her celebrate in Sarasota Memorial’s Courtyard. She’s given Robin rock-solid support, including a few perfectly timed corny jokes. A nd then there’s Webster, with his wagging tail and furry hugs.

Robin doubts he’ll ever know how much he’s given her.

The Courtyard is a unique healing space where our patients can enjoy sunshine, fresh air, and our amazing Pet Therapy dogs. They’ve offered comfort and kindness to our patients for over 15 years.

smh.com/healing-spaces

INSIDE THE ISSUE MARCH 2019 FEATURES 14 Neal Communities' Grand Palm Offers Luxury in a Natural Setting Original Trees and a Beautiful Lake Highlight Grand Palm Living

20 Team Effort Brings the Atlanta Braves to South Sarasota County New $100 Million Stadium Set to Open for Spring Training Game

26 A Tropical Oasis: Pelicans and Flamingos Experience Great Shopping, where Shopping Is a Great Experience

26 14

34 What Houseplant Should You Get? Would people describe you as having a green thumb?

34

20 DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

8

Good Times

12

Around Town

14

Open House

26 Locally Owned 32 Lifestyle Calendar 34 Healthy Lifestyle

GOOD TIMES 1.

2.

Volunteer Fair/Show Off at the Venetian Golf and River Club A Volunteer Fair sponsored by the Venetian Golf and River Club Community Association was held on Monday, Jan. 14 and showcased 10 local charity organizations including the Laurel Civic Association and Habitat for Humanity. Accompanying the Fair was a "Show Off," which featured authors and artists. The event was organized by Roger Effron, publisher of VGRC's Parcels from Paradise newsletter.

3.

4.

5.

7.

6.

1. The Volunteer Fair at the Venetian Golf and River Club | 2. Author Barbara Felquate | 3. Attendees at the Children First table | 4. Author Tina Rattan | 5. Dave Fox and his memorabilia | 6. Laurel Civic Association Program Coordinator John Jefferson, Volunteer Fair Organizer Roger Effron, Laurel Civic Association Volunteer Margaret Mancini | 7. Organizer Roger Effron speaks at the Volunteer Fair/Show Off.

Body – Mind – Spirit Health & Wellness Expo The Body – Mind – Spirit Health & Wellness Expo was held at the Westfield Sarasota Square Mall on Saturday, Jan. 12. Out of the many vendors that were participating, one could not help but to recognize a few of our own local Venice businesses.

1.

2.

3.

1. Tricia Plessl promoting VoxxLife. Wearable Neurotech | 2. Susan Viteri, independent distributor for Young Living Essential Oils | 3. Beth “Annie” Stockdale, Your Total Body Wellness Center. Certified personal trainer and health coach 8

Venice Lifestyle | March 2019

1.

2.

Beach Life by Terry Hosts a Grand Opening Celebration Beach Life by Terry celebrated its grand opening party on Saturday, Jan. 12. Mimosas, wine and hors d'oeuvres were served to a lively crowd. With an eclectic variety of handcrafted items, jewelry and other treasures, Beach Life by Terry displays owner Terry Magruder's panache for discovering the offbeat, chic and beautiful. 838 Pinebrook Road, Venice, 941.303.0970, BeachLifeByTerry.com

3.

4.

5.

1. Ana Michael, Heidrun Bauer and Mary Lou Stellmach looking at all the wonderful treasures. | 2. Susanne Arbagy with husband Tim loves Terry’s jewelry. | 3. DeWitt and Barbara Gorman (center) drove from Apollo Beach for the grand opening as they love Terry’s Beach wall decor. | 4. Owner Terry Magruder with business manager Tony Pitts | 5. Terry helping her customers look through the many beautiful choices of her fine handcrafted jewelry

Allegro Bistro

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9

GOOD TIMES 1.

2.

3.

Legacy Trail Overpass at Laurel Road Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony The Florida Department of Transportation completed construction of the Legacy Trail Overpass at Laurel Road. Twelve feet wide and 90 feet long, the overpass crosses Laurel Road and is strong enough to support emergency vehicles. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on Wednesday, Jan. 9Â with remarks by County Commissioner Alan Maio and FDOT Director of Transportation Development John Kubler.

4.

5.

6.

1. FDOT’s John Kubler cut the ribbon flanked by County Commissioners Charles Hines and Alan Maio. | 2. More than 50 cyclists immediately crossed the Laurel Road Overpass after the ribbon-cutting. | 3. The new Legacy Trail Overpass at Laurel Road | 4. The Legacy Trail sees 225,000 users every year. | 5. Cyclists cross the Legacy Trail Overpass at Laurel Road | 6. Many cyclists attended the ceremony.

CiaoBellaBeautySalon.com 941.220.7112 \\

10

Venice Lifestyle | March 2019

2161 Tamiami Trail South, Venice

AROUND TOWN second place awards from the American Society of Interior Designers in the Florida South and Florida West chapters. The new building completed in early 2018 was designed by Mark Beebe of Beebe Design Studio Architects and built by JE Charlotte Construction. The interior features classic white woodwork, organic textures and a natural color palette. The Pinkerton team requested a theme that would communicate their identity and high level of service while emphasizing their strong roots in the local community.

310 W. Venice Ave., Suite 201, Venice, 866.209.8557, PinkertonPW.com

BARBARA PRICE ANNOUNCES COAST TO COAST STAGING

VENICE SHARK'S TOOTH FESTIVAL COMING APRIL 12-14 For the 27th consecutive year, the Venice

Barbara Price is pleased to announce the

Shark's Tooth Festival comes to the Venice

launch of her business, Coast to Coast Staging,

Airport Festival Grounds from Friday, April 12

which specializes in professional real estate

through Sunday, April 14. One of our region's

staging. A real estate agent herself with 30 years

signature events, the festival celebrates the vast

of experience in sales and marketing, Barbara is

trove of fossilized sharks' teeth that wash up on

essentially dressing the home for a series of

Venice's beautiful beaches everyday and are

blind dates, and there is only one chance to cre-

free for the taking to those lucky enough to find

ate the first impression.

them. On display and for sale will be fossils of all

"I can see and stage a property from the buyer's

sorts, a multitude of sharks' teeth, great artists,

perspective," Barbara says. "Often owners are too

amazing live music, delicious food and drinks,

emotionally attached to see their home in a way

plenty of kids' games and all around family fun!

that primes it for sale."

Tickets are $5 at the door, kids 12 and under are

941.223.1215, Barbprice.realtor@gmail.com, CoastToCoastStaging.com

admitted free, and parking is free. Proceeds from the festival will benefit the Special Olympics. The schedule will be Friday 4 PM - 9 PM, Saturday 10 AM - 9 PM, and Sunday 10 AM - 5 PM. All are welcome and sponsorship opportunities are available at all levels.

Shark's Tooth Festival, Venice Airport Festival Grounds, 941.412.0402, Sharkstoothfest.com

JOY OF JAZZ - TOM ELLISON QUARTET Joy

of

Jazz

is

a

free

concert

at

Venice’s Centennial Park Gazebo on Sunday, March 24th at 2:00 PM. The event is co-sponsored by the Jazz Club of Sarasota and the Gulf Coast Community Foundation. Tom Ellison, on woodwinds and vocals, leads the quartet. The Jazz Club is dedicated to preserving and pro-

PINKERTON PRIVATE WEALTH WINS INTERIOR DESIGN AWARDS Pinkerton Private Wealth’s interior design earned design firm Space as Art both first and 12

Venice Lifestyle | March 2019

moting jazz. Founded by the late Hal Davis, the former publicist for Benny Goodman, the Jazz Club has approximately 500 members. The Club presents the Annual Sarasota Jazz Festival, now in its 39th year. Bring your folding chairs.

“Experience great shopping, where shopping is a great experience” Pelican Cottage and The Flamingo’s Nest have combined and are now located under one colorful roof. Please stop by and visit our Key West inspired store, staffed with the same friendly people, and filled with the same fabulous furniture and accessories.

www.PelicansandFlamingos.com

758 S. Tamiami Trail

•

Osprey, Florida 34229 • 941•966•0600

OPEN HOUSE Neal Communities' Grand Palm has preserved the original natural landscape for a lovely setting.

THE DETAILS 5800 Lakewood Ranch Blvd.

N Sarasota 888.930.2802, NealCommunities.com

14

Venice Lifestyle | March 2019

Neal Communities’ Grand Palm O f f e rs Luxury in a N at ura l Se tti ng

WHEN NEAL COMMUNITIES FIRST BROKE GROUND ON ITS MORE THAN 1,000-ACRE GRAND PALM DEVELOPMENT IN SOUTH VENICE IN 2010, CRITICAL EXECUTIVE DECISIONS WERE MADE TO PRESERVE AS MUCH OF THE NATURAL LANDSCAPE AS POSSIBLE, INCLUDING MANY OF THE OLD PINE AND OAK TREES. Those choices have resulted in one of the ever-growing south county’s loveliest places to live.

Today, Grand Palm features more than 900 completed and occupied homes, with more than 800 home sites remaining for the discerning purchaser searching for modern, luxury living in a beautiful, natural setting.

Once inside the Grand Palm’s main gates, residents are treated to meandering, shaded streets; a large central lake that features a lovely island; a resort-style pool and waterslide at the main community center; as well as plenty of amenities including tennis, pickleball, basketball, volleyball, walking trails, dog parks, a splash pool

ORIGINAL TREES AND A BEAUTIFUL LAKE HIGHLIGHT GRAND PALM LIVING

for the little ones and an on-site, full-time activity director with a complete schedule of events. All the Coastalstyle homes are "smart," with keyless front doors and all interior utilities linked and operated directly from owners’ phones. There are gated villages within the overall gated community, offering security and peaceof-mind to year-round residents, as well as snowbirds.

Several gated villages also offer their own community pools aside from the main pool open to all owners.

With prices beginning at $259,990, Grand Palm offers turnkey homes, as well as homes that can be designed by the buyer in every detail. Buyers can choose the home style, home site and every sort of color style from wall paint to tiles to roofing.

“We have a top-to-bottom, complete design studio in Lakewood Ranch off Main Street,” says MaryAnn Koops, Neal Communities’ area sales manager. “The buyer comes in, and we have a several-step process where they browse through our styles. First, the buyers do a preview through our catalogs, and then we do a design appointment where they have a four-hour individual meeting with our designers where they get to personalize their home.

They come in several times and then they finalize their color choices for countertops, cabinets, flooring, walls and exteriors. They choose the whole gamut from A to Z. They also have the opportunity to upgrade while they are there. Our design studio is more than 5,000-square-feet and well-appointed with the latest design selections.”

Everything in the homes can be upgraded, including sound systems and pools, to create a state-of-the-art, completely modern living style. Video security is a feature of each home as well. But what truly makes Grand

ARTICLE TONY D'SOUZA | PHOTOGRAPHY NEAL COMMUNITIES

Palm special is that the home sites are well-spaced, creating a stately feeling for residents.

CONTINUED >

March 2019 | Venice Lifestyle

15

OPEN HOUSE

(CON TI N U ED)

Grand Palm homes offer open luxury floor plans.

The Grand Palm features a resortstyle pool with a waterslide.

“When we began this community, we ensured that we preserved

a flora-covered island. We have boardwalks and biking and walk-

and enhanced the natural beauty of the property,” MaryAnn says.

ing trails, which offer lovely views of the water. Residents can fish,

“The home sites have beautiful trees on them. We didn’t just pre-

kayak, paddleboard, everything but motorized boating to maintain

serve wetland areas within the community, but we also made a

the idyllic peacefulness of Grand Palm. Everyone who buys in

point of preserving as many original trees as possible. That is almost

Grand Palm loves the activities available. It’s a total lifestyle. There

unheard of in Florida’s building community. We took into account the

is so much to do for everyone.”

look and feel of the nature that was there—the foliage, the natural vegetation. That makes Grand Palm absolutely unique.”

Founded by Pat Neal in 1970, Neal Communities has 40 years of experience in Southwest Florida and has built more than 14,000

Grand Palm is well-situated, with two main entrances, one off

homes in the region. Recognized in 2012 as "America’s Best Builder,"

River Road and the second off Center Road. Just half a mile away is

Neal Communities was also named "National Builder of the Year" in

Interstate 75, offering quick and convenient access to all points north

2015. Along with his wife, Charlene, in 2017 Neal gave $1 million to

and south, including the wonderful arts and dining scenes in Venice

the Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County, funded the Flex Sport

and Sarasota. Adjacent to West Villages, Grand Palm is also located

Field at the DeSoto Club campus, and continues to support after-

to take advantage of that growing community’s shopping and ser-

school and summer programs for children in the region.

vices, as well as the new Atlanta Braves spring training stadium.

“Another thing that makes Grand Palm so amazing is the sprawling lake in the middle of the community,” MaryAnn says. “It features 16

Venice Lifestyle | March 2019

“We have really built a sense of community at Grand Palm,” MaryAnn says. “And we’re not finished. We will be opening a new second amenity center later this year for everyone to enjoy.”

Buyers can customize every feature of their Grand Palm homes.

A view of the central lake at Neal Communities' Grand Palm.

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Two-car garages and quaint courtyards are among the amenities.

CASSATA PLACE VILLAS

Proposed 26-Paired Villa Community pending City of Venice approval to be located along East Venice Avenue. Will feature 1,500 living sq. ft. 2B/2B, den, screened lanai and oversized 2-car garage.

Pro Group Realty and Property Management, LLC ProGroup-Realty.com • 941.786.9403 Prices, terms, and availability are subject to change. Floor plans, photographs, renderings, elevations and sizes are approximate for presentation purposes only and may vary. Photos by Victoria Dietz.

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REFLECTIONS

In Gold

EST. 1982

J e w e l r y r e p a i r w h i l e y o u w a i t i s b y a p p o i n t m e n t o n l y.

1975 S. TAMIAMI TRAIL I VENICE, FL 34293 941-493-1911 I ReflectionsInGold.com @rigjewelry

@reflections_in_gold

@reflecionsingold941

An artist's rendering of the new Atlanta Braves spring training stadium. Work will be completed in time for a game between the Braves and the Rays on March 24.

20

Venice Lifestyle | March 2019

The grass is in and the lights are on at the new Braves spring training stadium. The construction work is in its final stages.

NEW $100 MILLION STADIUM SET TO OPEN FOR SPRING TRAINING GAME

Team Effort Brings the

A t l a n t a B r a ve s to South Sarasota County

IT’S BEEN AN INCREDIBLE TEAM EFFORT TO BRING THE ATLANTA BRAVES NEW $100 MILLION STADIUM AND SPRING TRAINING FACILITY TO FRUITION IN BOOMING SOUTH SARASOTA COUNTY, THE FINISHING TOUCHES OF WHICH ARE BEING COMPLETED EVEN AS YOU READ THIS ARTICLE. Named the “Deal of the Year” by the Florida Economic Development Council, the stadium brought together the Braves, the state of Florida, Sarasota County, the city of North Port and West Villages on a project that the council estimates will create nearly 150 full-time jobs and stimulate an additional $1.7 billion annually to Florida’s economy.

A recent visit to the stadium site revealed a buzz of busy construction work on the project which began just 18 months ago, in October 2017, and eager anticipation of the first game to be played there, on Sunday, March 24, between the Braves and the Tampa Bay Rays. More than 400 workers have been laboring daily on the tightest of schedules. The state-of-the-art stadium will feature 6,500 seats, bleacher space for 2,500 more, ample parking, six adjacent practice fields, as well as a 40-by-80-foot high-definition scoreboard. Expansive clubhouses and fitness facilities will serve the Braves players and those hoping to make the cut during the busy spring training schedule.

CONTINUED >

ARTICLE TONY D'SOUZA | PHOTOGRAPHY ATLANTA BRAVES

March 2019 | Venice Lifestyle

21

TEAM EFFORT

(CON TI N U ED)

Work on the stadium began in October 2017 and has continued daily ever since.

The site of the eventual Tomahawk Tiki Bar, a bar and restaurant at the stadium that will be open to the public daily.

22

Venice Lifestyle | March 2019

The $100 million Braves spring training stadium includes practice fields, training facilities, ample parking and year-round events.

Intended to be a year-round special

teams are leaving Central Florida, and we

events and concerts venue, this new enter-

needed to go to where the teams are. We

tainment gem of Southwest Florida saw

have the Orioles in Sarasota, the Rays in

West Villages and North Port invest nearly

Port Charlotte, the Red Sox and Twins

$5 million each, while Sarasota County

in Fort Myers, the Pirates in Bradenton,

provided nearly $28 million more in various

the Yankees in Tampa, the Phillies in

taxes and expenditures. The state of Florida

Clearwater and the Blue Jays in Dunedin.

added $20 million as additional incentive to

By locating and developing here, we don’t

lure the Braves from their previous spring

have to be on a bus all the time.”

training home, the Wide World of Sports

Mike says that more than 400 players

Complex near Disney World in Lake Buena

will be at the stadium complex each year

Vista. Based at that facility for 22 years,

for eight full weeks. The players will begin

the Braves picked up the majority of the

to arrive every year around Feb. 1, when

construction costs for the new stadium and

they will acclimate and start workouts.

have signed a 30-year lease.

Games will begin during the third week

West Villages also donated infrastruc-

of February and play through the end of

ture and land to the project. Located just

March. By April 1, the Braves will break

west of the Tamiami Trail, the stadium

spring training camp, with the major

features highly in West Villages continued

league players returning to Atlanta and

growth, with a new Town Center planned at

the minor leaguers to their home cities.

the intersection of West Villages Parkway

A wave of rookies will then arrive at the

and U.S. 41. Already, the Braves Preview

facility for extended spring training. All

Center at the nearby Cornerstone Plaza

these players are supported by staff, and

is a hive of activity. Currently the Braves’

everyone will need housing.

spring training headquarters, the Preview

“We will use all available hotels,” Mike

Center is managed by Mike Dunn, the

says. “We will use temporary apartments

Atlanta Braves vice president of Florida

and houses. We’re building an academy on

Operations. According to Mike, the new

site that will sleep more than 120 rookies.

stadium will be far more than just the site

We have to be creative in housing.”

of the Braves’ spring training games. It will

The stadium complex will also be turn-

also host games played by the rookie-level

key once fully completed, according to Mike.

Gulf Coast League, various other traveling

Players and staff will be served three meals

leagues, fall instructional leagues, baseball

a day there. There will be team cafeterias

academies for young players, along with

and kitchens, and a year-round, full-service

diverse, year-round programming.

restaurant and bar, the Tomahawk Tiki Bar,

“I’ve been with the Braves for 30 years,”

will be open to the public every day.

says Mike, who relocated to Venice per-

“When the younger players are here, it’s a

manently in September with his wife and

time for them to either make the team or go

twin 12-year-old sons. “I’m responsible for

home,” Mike says. “But the older guys, the

all Braves activities in the state of Florida,

veteran guys will certainly be bringing their

and this stadium is now our primary hub.

families. They will buy houses and become

Everything having to do with the Braves in

entrenched in this community. They know

Florida will start and end right here.”

they are coming back next year.”

Mike says the Braves organization loves the new stadium.

“This is the biggest project we have going, and it's going to be the lifeblood of our organization for the next 30 years,” he says. “Disney was a great partner, but

Over at the stadium, the grass is in and the lights are on. Tickets are already on sale, and everything is ready for the first official pitch. The games are about to begin!

14906 Tamiami Trail Suite A, North Port, 941.413.5000, MLB.com/braves

March 2019 | Venice Lifestyle

23

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TRENDS

IN HOME DECOR

We will all remember 2018 as the year that brought us social media post after post of home decor trends like subway tiles, exposed lighting and rose gold. As the spring fever for 2019 kicks in, new home decor trends are sprouting up.

These are some of the most fashion-forward trends in home decor to expect this year:

FLORAL PATTERNS

NATURE-INSPIRED ELEMENTS

PRECIOUS METALS

Speaking of spring, Florida affords its

To go along with the natural feel of florals,

Not all of nature design is plant-based,

residents

tout

major emphasis on natural design will

though.

spring symbols like florals year-round.

with

the

emerge in home decor this year. Materials

throughout the home will breathe new life

Don’t expect to see the floral prints of

such as copper, concrete, stone and

into existing décor. With red and orange

your

Updated

granite are being utilized to create a fresh,

tones prevalent in copper, an earthy

floral patterns will begin to emerge

nature inspired oasis. From countertops to

design is achieved. This metallic trend is

that highlight new elements such as

geometric concrete tiles, organic elements

easy to integrate throughout the home in

enlarged proportions, contrasting colors

lend themselves to a crisp, clean look in

the form of accent walls, ceilings, mirrors,

and abstract motifs. Daring colors will be

2019. A focus on constructing a tranquil

lighting fixtures, furnishings and small

used to create warm, dramatic spaces that

environment that echoes the outside

décor pieces. Likewise, when it comes to

evoke a sense of happiness and joy.

world will come into play.

fixtures, say goodbye to stainless steel and

grandmother,

weather

though.

to

Mixed

metal

accents

found

polished nickel. Brass accents make their way back into our homes by offering a warm, subtle alternative to steel.

The home decor trends on the horizon and already in play build upon themes from the past few years, appearing in bold new ways. Whether used as accents or statement features, these home decor trends can freshen up the look in any room of your house and help you put a 2019 stamp on your style.

941.960.7805 • www.MYWESTVILLAGES .com New Homes in South Sarasota County f rom $200,000-$600,000+ Divosta | D.R. Horton | Lennar | Mattamy Homes | M/I Homes | Neal Communities | Sam Rodgers Homes | WCI Communities

LOCALLY OWNED

A TROPICAL OASIS:

Pelicans and Flamingos EXPERIENCE GREAT SHOPPING, WHERE SHOPPING IS A GREAT EXPERIENCE

ARTICLE TONY D'SOUZA | PHOTOGRAPHY PRION PHOTOGRAPHY

WALKING INTO PELICANS AND FLAMINGOS, VIS-

“We discovered Key West years ago while on vaca-

ITORS FEEL AS THOUGH THEY HAVE ARRIVED AT

tion and fell in love with the colors and architecture. We

KEY WEST’S MARGARITAVILLE FOR AN ISLAND

totally found our passion and vision there,” Nicki says.

ADVENTURE. This unique furniture store is a feast for

“We’re also inspired by Charleston, South Carolina, for

the senses. Selling both new and consignment furniture

the same reason.”

Pelicans and Flamingos has something for everyone!

“After our visit, we began incorporating these beautiful

In 2009, owners Nicki and Darrell Hoke combined

tropical colors into our model homes and made design

their talents to create a magical consignment store,

changes to our home plans," Darrell says. "We would

Pelican Cottage, located in Venice. In 2012, responding

scout consignment stores and flea markets looking for

to the need for a larger space, they moved the store to

vintage dressers or cabinets to drop a vessel sink into to

Osprey. Four years later, the couple expanded by open-

feature in powder rooms. This is widely practiced today,

ing a popular sister store, The Flamingo’s Nest, specializ-

but it was relatively new back then.”

ing in new furniture. Now, the two appealing destinations reside together under one colorful roof as Pelicans and

The style they personally embrace is Coastal Shabby Chic.

The

coral-colored

exterior

of

the

sprawling

Flamingos, where the team continues to provide cus-

24,000-square-foot store features three showrooms

tomers with a great shopping experience.

overflowing with furniture and accessories for the entire

“Our customers repeatedly tell us they like the integra-

home. Two of these showrooms are open-air, allowing

tion better. Our employees love it, and we all feel more

the sunshine and warm breezes to flow throughout the

connected with everyone,” Nicki says.

store. You’ll find bedroom furniture, mattresses, sofas,

Drawing upon prior experience in custom home building, design and spatial layout, the couple’s passion for

sectionals, dining sets, outdoor furniture, artwork, lamps and home decor.

excellence is evident within the walls of their distinct and

Pelicans and Flamingos carries several lines of new

extraordinary shop. Their whimsical, creative displays are

furniture, most of which are made in the USA, and include

what they are known for. As you enter the store, you are

reputable furniture companies such as Capris, Beachcraft,

greeted by a tropical island with beach sand, palm trees

Stanley Chair, Sea Winds and Ashley, to name just a few.

and mommy and daddy flamingos watching over their

Although they have a large selection of upholstered goods

nest of newborn babies. The nest of babies was created

in stock and ready to go, customers have the great option

by Darrell’s mother, Elizabeth, and his sister, Kelly, as a

of custom ordering furniture from a multitude of catalogs

surprise opening gift. Creative talent obviously runs in the

with more than 1,000 fabrics to choose from.

family. Walk under an elevated Key West cottage through to

“Not everyone decorates ‘beachy,’ so we embrace the

a rainbow walkway with a Woody Wagon on a beach com-

individual customer’s style preferences to help them cre-

plete with a water feature and alligator fountain. Super cool!

ate their vision,” Darrell says.

26

Venice Lifestyle | March 2019

CONTINUED >

The store is filled with displays such as this one featuring a Woody Wagon.

Pelicans and Flamingos features the high-quality consignment, as well as top-of-the-line new furniture.

Nicki and Darrell Hoke at their furniture and consignment store, Pelicans and Flamingos

Pelicans and Flamingos is filled with treasures for the discerning taste.

March 2019 | Venice Lifestyle

27

LOCALLY OWNED (CON TI N U ED)

The Hokes' style and vision was inspired by a trip to Key West.

“Many times, customers get a myriad of opinions from family, friends and decorators, and they become a little confused,” Nicki says. “I always tell them to make selections based on what makes them happy. From styles to colors, furniture and accessory selections should reflect their personal style.

Remember, your friends and family can’t see your furniture from their house.”

Their experienced sales associates and designers are always available to lend a helping hand. Never pushy, always acces-

“ N o t e v e ryo n e d e c o r at e s ‘ b e a c h y,’ so we embrace the individual customer’s style preferences to help t h e m c r e at e t h e i r v i s i o n .”

sible, Nicki’s and Darrell’s goal is to build long-lasting relationships with customers, many of whom they now call friends.

The casual, welcoming atmosphere encourages people to make themselves at home.

“We’ll see our customers sitting down relaxing and chatting to their friends.

Others can be found humming along to the cheerful Calypso music while enjoying complimentary cookies and ice water,” Darrell says.

“Customers frequently tell us that there is no other store in the area like ours,” Nicki says. “We have gone out of our way to create a Key West-inspired theme complete with a fun and laid-back atmosphere.

It has been received so well that many of our customers make our store a stop when touring the area with visitors. We’ve become a mini tourist attraction.”

Walking through the vast array of new and consignment furniture and accessories, visitors are delighted at the substantial selection and great prices. The owners regularly travel throughout Florida and neighboring states seeking artisans to bring amazing original works of local art— from signs and handmade, hand-painted furniture, to metal works and statuary.

Additionally, they often have one-of-a-

Artisinal treasures are to be found everywhere at the 24,000-squarefoot store.

kind furnishings that are secured through store closeouts, model homes or estates.

Sometimes they buy items just because they’ll look great in the store. These items may not be for sale, but they add to the fun ambiance and experience of visiting.

“I always explain to people who would like to buy one of our displays or personal items that if we could get another,

28

Venice Lifestyle | March 2019

we would gladly sell it, but if we sold all of our props, the store just wouldn’t be the same,” Nicki says.

To help customers make decisions, the furniture and accessories are artfully displayed in vignettes. This enables them to visualize the complete room grouping in their home. Many times, they will purchase the entire grouping because it is so perfectly put together.

Darrell and Nicki emphasize that their customer service is second to none, their prices are reasonable, and they offer a pricematch guarantee. Those attributes, together with offering full-service delivery and longterm storage for buyers building or renovating their homes, has fostered their success and continued growth.

“It’s hard for us,” Darrell says and laughs.

“If we see something at a show that we really love, we put it in the store because our house is full. The good news is that there are always new things coming in. The store changes every single day.”

Florida lifestyle furnishings, affordable prices, exemplary customer service, and a fun and unique shopping experience await you. Stop by and see for yourself. You won’t be disappointed!

758 S. Tamiami Trail, Osprey, 941.966.0600, Occasionally customers will purchase displays in their entirety.

PelicansandFlamingos.com

Open Daily at 11

ca where the lo

ls go

1097 N. Tamiami Trail | Nokomis, FL

941-786-1524

www.paradisegrillfl.com

Saturday & Sunday at 7:30am for breakfast Happy Hour Daily until 7pm Live entertainment nightly in our heated Tiki

March 2019 | Venice Lifestyle

29

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Venice Lifestyle | March 2019

(941) 484-4209

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MARCH

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

2, 9, 16, 23, 30 VENICE FARMERS MARKET City Hall

The lively Venice Farmers Market features dozens of vendors, locally grown fruits and vegetables, as well as crafts of all sorts.

Fair itself will be in West Blalock Park

provides free "shopping" days to

on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

foster care children, allowing them to pick out their own new clothes.

23 THE VENICE SYMPHONY'S MOZART & MAHLER

Venice Performing Arts Center

Mozart's exhilarating Symphony No.

8-9

41, "Jupiter", is the composer's final

VENICE AREA GARDEN CLUB 30TH ANNUAL HOME TOUR Downtown Venice

Area Garden Club or at the door the days of the event. Proceeds benefit

Venice Airport Festival Grounds

to be among the greatest works in

Bash is Southwest Florida’s mar-

classical music. The second half of

quee barbecue and bluegrass event

the concert will showcase Gustav

attracting tens of thousands of

Mahler's Symphony No. 1, in D Major.

folks every year. Venice plays host to elite barbecue cook teams and

24 TOUR DE PARKS

scholarships for high school and ele-

Venice Train Depot

mentary school programs, plus many

A bicycle ride to support the Legacy

more community activities.

Trail. Riders can choose from 21-, 35- and 62-mile scenic and fun rides.

The event includes breakfast, lunch

CITY OF VENICE CASUAL BIKE RIDE

SUNCOAST BBQ & BLUEGRASS BASH

The Suncoast BBQ & Bluegrass

the beautification of the Venice area,

13

29-30

symphony and considered by many

Tickets are $20 and may be purchased from members of the Venice

Donations requested.

award-winning

bluegrass

bands

from all over the United States. If you have never tasted award-winning barbecue or heard toe-tapping bluegrass music, you are in for a treat!

31

and rest-stop snacks, and a technical

ANTIQUE AUTOMOBILE CAR SHOW

T-shirt for the first 650 registrants. For

Centennial Park

more information and registration,

Every year, the Venice FL Chapter

City Hall

visit FriendsoftheLegacyTrail.org

AACA

City of Venice Bicycle Pedestrian

and SMBC.us.

their time to put together a terrific

Coordinator Darlene Culpepper has launched a monthly bicycle ride in the city, open to the public. A casual, 6-mile ride around the Island of Venice,

club

members

volunteer

car show. This event raises money

24

traveling along the ever-so-popular

JOY OF JAZZ

Venice Island Loop that is highlighted

Centennial Park Gazebo

on our bicycle maps. The free ride will

Joy of Jazz is a free outdoor concert at

take place on the second Wednesday

the Centennial Park Gazebo in down-

of each month at 10 a.m.

town Venice. The event is co-spon-

for its Charitable Awards Program.

There will be 22 Class Awards (first, second and third place), plus five individual awards, T-shirts and dash plaques for all entrants.

sored by the Jazz Club of Sarasota and

15-16

the Gulf Coast Community Foundation.

Tom Ellison, on woodwinds and vocals, leads the quartet. Bring folding chairs.

VENICE BOOK FAIR & WRITERS FESTIVAL Blalock Park

The 2019 Book Fair and Writers Festival

32

will

include

speak-

25 THE TWIG DONATION DROP-OFF DAY

We are always accepting submissions for events you'd like to see included in our Calendar section. Submissions are accepted

ers Friday in the new Venice public

The TWIG

via

library from 3 to 7:30 p.m. The Book

The TWIG is a local nonprofit that

LifestylePubs.com/Venice.

Venice Lifestyle | March 2019

the

Contact

Us

tab

at

140 Avenue 140West WestVenice Venice Avenue Venice, Florida Florida 34285 Venice, 34285 941.244.9054

941.244.9054 eyesonyoueyewear.com eyesonyoueyewear.com Love Long Some say love won’t last long I know certainly they are wrong My life is a joyous love song Ever since I laid Eyes on You! By: Chris Tritschler © December 29, 2018

Twist Boutique offers stylish, easy to wear men’s and women’s fashions and whimsical gifts for everyone. Our upscale collections will have you looking and feeling great!

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941.786.1025 VeniceTwist.com

137

West Venice Avenue Venice | Florida

March 2019 | Venice Lifestyle

33

HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

ARTICLE NICOLETTE MARTIN

WHAT HOUSEPLANT SHOULD YOU GET? WOULD PEOPLE DESCRIBE YOU AS HAVING A GREEN THUMB? N

Y

ARE YOU OFTEN AWAY FOR

BUT DO YOU REMEMBER

LONG PERIODS OF TIME?

TO WATER YOUR PLANTS?

Y

N

Y

DO YOU HAVE

ARE YOU LOW

MANY WINDOWS?

ON O2?

N

Y

Y

N

N

DO YOU HAVE ANY PETS? Y

IS IT HARD FOR YOU TO

N

COMMIT TO ONE THING? Y

N

CACTI + SUCCULENTS

LEMON BUTTON FERN

SNAKE PLANT

PHILODENDRON

When you’re looking for

Safe for both cats and dogs

Labeled as both a “for-

The split-leaf philodendron

variety without the hassle,

according to the ASPCA,

giving houseplant” and

does not require a lot of

cacti and succulents are

lemon button ferns—also

healthy houseplant by

light or moisture, but will

the way to go. Since they

known as southern sword

HGTV, the snake plant

grow much larger if given

are able to store water in

ferns—are drought-tolerant

tolerates low light and long

both and ample space to

their leaves, they’re more

and thrive in shady rooms.

stretches without water

climb. Be careful, though,

forgiving when your mind

They’re low-maintenance if

while also adding oxygen

it is highly toxic to animals,

is elsewhere.

you keep their soil moist.

to the room at night.

according to the ASPCA.

Plant care information gathered from HGTV.com 34

Venice Lifestyle | March 2019

IT ’S NEVER TOO L AT E TO H AVE A

beautiful smile

1218 East Venice Avenue Venice, FL. 34285

Doctor’s Associations • • • • • •

(941) 488-1075 venicedentist.com

The American Dental Association Academy of General Dentistry The International Congress of Oral Implantologists Florida Dental Association West Coast Dental Association Sarasota County Dental Association

RESTORATIVE/ REHABILITATION DENTISTRY CROWNS & BRIDGEWORK/ O N E DAY C R OWN S DENTAL IMPL ANTS/ IMPL ANT RETAINED RESTORATIONS R E M OVA B L E D E N TU R E S TEETH WHITENING IV CONSCIOUS SEDATION

Dr. Frank Lewicki | Dr. Brent Beyer | Dr. Charles Davis